Oshkosh
Oshkosh refers to both a historical figure and a city in Wisconsin named after him. The historical Oshkosh was a Native American chief of the Menominee tribe, known for his leadership during significant events such as the War of 1812, where he allied with the British. He was appointed chief in 1827 by U.S. agents during a period of conflict involving territorial disputes between different Native American tribes. Throughout his life, Oshkosh worked with the U.S. government, notably assisting during the Black Hawk War, and he played a crucial role in managing relations between the Menominee tribe and white authorities.
Oshkosh's tenure saw the gradual erosion of Menominee land claims, culminating in 1848 when he signed the Treaty of Lake Powahekone, which ceded the remaining Menominee lands to the federal government. His life ended in 1858 in a tragic incident, and he was succeeded by his son. The city of Oshkosh in Wisconsin commemorates his legacy, reflecting the complexities of Native American history and interactions with European settlers.
Subject Terms
Oshkosh
- Born: 1795
- Birthplace: Old King's Village on the Fox River near present-day Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Died: August 20, 1858
- Place of death: Keshena, Wisconsin
Tribal affiliation: Menominee
Significance: Oshkosh was first appointed chief by federal agents during mediation of a land dispute; he helped to negotiate removal of the Menominee Indians
Oshkosh, descendant of chiefs, originally allied with the British during the War of 1812, fighting with Chief Tomah in the battle at Fort Mackinaw, Michigan, and at Fort Stephenson, Ohio. In 1827, he was appointed chief by U.S. agents Lewis Cass and Thomas McKenney as they mediated a border dispute between the Chippewa and the Menominee and a subsequent disagreement between the Menominees and a group of New York Iroquois, led by Eleazar Williams, who wished to settle on Menominee land.
Although originally appointed by white agents, Oshkosh retained leadership throughout his life. He aided the United States during the Black Hawk War of 1832 and afterward continued to ensure Menominee compliance with white authority. Menominee land claims were continuously eroded, and removal was completed when Wisconsin became a state in 1848 and Oshkosh signed the Treaty of Lake Powahekone ceding the last Menominee lands to the federal government. Oshkosh died in 1858 in a drunken brawl and was succeeded by his son. The town of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is named for him.