Iowa’s landscape is etched with the stories of its past, a tapestry woven with the threads of pioneers, settlers, and the indigenous people who first called this land home. When the Iowa Territorial Legislature convened, long before the counties were formally organized, they embarked on the task of naming these new divisions. In a gesture of respect and remembrance, many counties were named after prominent figures: past presidents, intrepid explorers, and, significantly, the chiefs and tribes who inhabited the region. Among these is Appanoose County, a name inextricably linked to Chief Appanoose, a leader of the Meskwaki (Fox) tribe, whose presence once graced the banks of a local stream.
Chief Appanoose: A Name Etched in History
Also known by alternate names such as Op-po-noos, Appan-oze-o-ke-mar, He Who Was A Chief When a Child, or simply Child Chief, Chief Appanoose held a position of hereditary leadership within the Meskwaki (Fox) tribe. What set him apart was his birthplace: he was the only leading chief of the Sac & Fox tribes to be born west of the Mississippi River, marking a shift in the tribe’s history and westward expansion. He was generally regarded as a friend of the white man. His name, "Appanoose," translates to "chief when a child," a moniker that speaks to his early recognition and rise to prominence within his community.
Physical Appearance and Leadership Qualities
Accounts describe Chief Appanoose as a striking figure: tall, handsome, and possessing a graceful, commanding presence. Though younger than and subordinate to more established chiefs like Keokuk and Pweshiek, Appanoose commanded respect due to his inherent leadership abilities. He was lauded as a skilled general, leading the largest band of warriors within the tribe, a testament to his strategic acumen and the trust placed in him by his people.
Diplomacy and Oratory on the National Stage
The 19th century was a period of intense negotiation and treaty-making between the United States government and Native American tribes, often involving the cession of ancestral lands. During these times, tribal leaders were frequently invited to visit major eastern cities, including the nation’s capital, to engage in discussions and negotiations. Chief Appanoose distinguished himself during these visits with his eloquence and powerful oratory skills. His speeches resonated with politicians and audiences alike, earning him widespread respect and recognition.
The Famed Journey to the East Coast in 1837
The year 1837 marked a pivotal moment in Chief Appanoose‘s life and legacy. He joined other prominent Indian chiefs on a journey to the East Coast, a trip designed to foster understanding and, more pragmatically, to facilitate land negotiations. During a visit to the Massachusetts Statehouse in Boston, Appanoose delivered what has been hailed as one of the most memorable orations ever given by a Native American chief.
His closing remarks, delivered with both dignity and a hint of pride, resonated deeply with the audience: "Where we live beyond the Mississippi, I am respected by all people and they consider me the tallest among them. I am happy that two great men meet and shake hands with each other." With these words, he extended his hand to Governor Everett, a gesture met with enthusiastic cheers and applause. This moment captured the complex dynamics of the era, where hospitality and diplomacy intertwined with the underlying pressure to cede land.
The treaties negotiated during this period resulted in significant land cessions, including the "third Black Hawk purchase" in eastern Iowa. The final purchase, which encompassed the land that would become Appanoose County, occurred in October 1842. Indians from across Iowa were summoned to Agency City, near Ottumwa, to finalize the agreement.
A Glimpse into Attire and Symbolism
Descriptions of Chief Appanoose‘s attire during his visit to Washington offer a glimpse into the symbolism and cultural significance of his clothing. He wore leggings crafted from meticulously tanned deerskin, fitted snugly from his waist to his ankles and adorned with intricate beadwork and porcupine quill fringe. His headdress was a striking assemblage of scarlet-colored hair, a long black wild turkey beard, a silver band, and a richly ornamented turban.
Further embellishments included beads and trinkets adorning his ears, bracelets of brass, tin, silver, and steel gracing his wrists, and wampum strung around his neck, signifying wealth and status. Notably, he wore the medallion presented to him by President Martin Van Buren, a symbol of diplomatic recognition from the United States government.
Forced Removal and Legacy in Kansas
The year 1843 brought a period of profound change and upheaval for the Meskwaki people. Under pressure from the United States government, they were compelled to leave their ancestral lands in central Iowa. Chief Appanoose led his tribe westward, to a Sauk and Fox reservation in the territory of Kansas.
Despite the forced relocation, the community persevered. Lodges were constructed, gardens were planted, and the rhythm of daily life on the prairie gradually returned to a semblance of normalcy. However, this period of relative stability was short-lived. After approximately 20 years, the tribe faced yet another forced removal, this time to Oklahoma Territory.
Tragically, Chief Appanoose did not accompany his people on this final journey. He remained in Kansas, where he passed away and was buried in an unmarked grave in the community of Appanoose, a town named in his honor. Today, the town stands as a ghost town, a poignant reminder of the displacement and loss experienced by the Meskwaki people.
Artistic Representation
The image of Chief Appanoose has been preserved through the artistry of Karl Bodmer, a renowned artist who created a collection of watercolor prints depicting various Native American chiefs who visited Washington D.C. during this era. These portraits serve as valuable historical records, offering visual representations of the individuals who played significant roles in the complex interactions between Native American tribes and the United States government.
Author’s Note:
This account of Chief Appanoose is drawn from the book "Appanoose County Courthouse Centennial 1904-2004" written by Bill Heusinkveld.
In conclusion, Chief Appanoose was more than just a name on a county map. He was a complex figure, a leader, an orator, and a symbol of his people’s resilience in the face of immense challenges. His story serves as a reminder of the rich and often tragic history of Native American tribes in the United States, and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.
