Redmanship in Kentucky for Fifty Great SunsSmith, Frank L.
History
Redmanship in Kentucky for Fifty Great Suns
Smith, Frank L.
Improved Order of Red Men. Great Council of Kentucky
Among those who had become members of the Red Men, though ignorant of
its pernicious customs, were Geo. A. Peter and William T. Jones, as well
as a number whose names it is unnecessary to record, yet admiring the
beauties of its aboriginal ceremonies, determined to revive the society
upon a basis of sobriety, virtue and mutual assistance in time of need.
Several preliminary meetings were held, at which plans, rules and
regulations for its government were discussed and adopted, and the Tribe
was duly organized under the title of Logan Tribe, No. 1, Order of
Improved Red Men, having for their motto, "FREEDOM, FRIENDSHIP AND
CHARITY."
The presiding chief was styled the Sachem, and the others graded as
Sagamores, Prophet, Chief of Records, Keeper of Wampum, Guards of the
Forest and Wigwam, Sanaps, Warriors and Braves. They also later prefixed
the word "Worthy" to the titles of the chiefs.
Dates were computed according to the Jewish method, using the year of
the world, or, as it was called, the "Grand Sun of the world." A year
was a "grand sun," and continued to be so styled until 1868, when it was
changed to "great sun."
A calendar or table of nomenclature was established, practically the
same as that now in use. The chiefs of the Tribes were elected every
three moons, which continued to be the custom for many "grand suns."
After Logan Tribe had been in existence for about one great sun, and
there had also been instituted Metamora Tribe, No. 2, it was deemed
advisable to apply to the Maryland Legislature for a charter, so that
the Tribe could be recognized as an important body. Brother John F.
Weishampel, Sr., was appointed to draw up the petition, and in so doing
prepared the papers in the name of the "Improved Order of Red Men," thus
transposing the original title, "Order of Improved Red Men." None of
members seemed to notice the alteration in the name and it therefore
remained so.
Soon after the organization of Metamora Tribe, No. 2, it was deemed best
to form a higher body, and therefore on the 20th sun of Flower Moon, G.
S. 5595, the Grand Council of Maryland was organized.
Pocahontas Tribe, No. 3, was instituted three great suns later, and the
Order was now firmly established and seemed on the high road to success
and prosperity.
In September, 1841, a new Tribe was instituted under the name of
Metamora Tribe, No. 4, the old Tribe, Metamora, No. 2, having forfeited
its charter and become defunct. Metamora, No. 4, did not last long for a
difficulty arose between the Tribe and the Great Council of Maryland,
and the membership withdrew and formed the nucleus of the organization
known as the Independent Order of Red Men, composed entirely of Germans.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account