Pawhuska
Pawhuska, meaning "white hair," is an important historical figure from the Osage tribe, known for his leadership and involvement in significant events during the early 19th century. Originating from a Great Osage tribal village along the Little Osage River, Pawhuska played a vital role during the period when Zebulon Pike established Camp Independence in Osage territory in 1806. Notably, he agreed to the cession of all Osage lands in Missouri through the Treaty of Fort Clark in 1808. His name is linked to a notable incident where he captured a French general's wig, which he subsequently wore as a symbol of medicine.
Pawhuska displaced the hereditary chief Tawagahe and maintained his position of power with the support of white traders, particularly the Chouteau family. He was instrumental in signing a number of treaties that ceded Osage land rights throughout the 19th century and was respected by both tribal leaders and white settlers. His close relationship with early American leaders, including President Thomas Jefferson, helped secure loyalty from the Osage during the War of 1812. Additionally, Pawhuska was involved in establishing various religious missions for the Osage people. His legacy is honored through his burial in a traditional Osage manner in a large tomb in Vernon County, Missouri.
Subject Terms
Pawhuska
- Born: c. 1760
- Birthplace: Little Osage River (now in central Missouri)
- Died: August 25, 1825
- Place of death: Present-day Vernon County, Missouri
Tribal affiliation: Osage
Significance: Pawhuska participated in 1808, 1818, and 1825 treaties ceding Osage land in Missouri and Arkansas
Pawhuska is thought to have been born in a Great Osage tribal village located on the Little Osage River in what is now Truman Reservoir in central Missouri. Pawhuska was a tribal leader when Zebulon Pike established Camp Independence in Osage territory in 1806. He later agreed to ceding all Osage lands in Missouri at the Treaty of Fort Clark in 1808.
The name Pawhuska, which means “white hair,” was derived from an incident in which Pawhuska captured the French General St. Clair’s wig during a skirmish. From that point on, Pawhuska wore the wig as a medicine symbol. While a young man, he managed to displace the Osage hereditary chief, Tawagahe. Pawhuska retained power through the help of white traders such as Pierre Chouteau. Later, through alliances with other tribal leaders such as Cashesegra, and continued white influence, Pawhuska signed all pivotal nineteenth century treaties ceding Osage land rights.
Pawhuska regarded white traders highly and allowed them to live among the Osage when the need arose. When the United States acquired Osage territory, his advice and counsel was sought by President Thomas Jefferson. As a result of Pawhuska’s close relationship with the Chouteau trading family, the Osage, during the War of 1812, remained loyal to the United States.
Pawhuska was instrumental in the establishment and continued development of several religious missions to the Osage. He was buried in Osage style in a large tomb on Blue Mound, Vernon County, Missouri.