12 Facts About Wapasha II

Wapasha II led the Dakota forces fighting with the British in the War of 1812, but sided with the United States in the Black Hawk War of 1832.

Wapasha II regularly stepped in to assist Rolette when there was trouble with hunters in his band, or when Rolette's clerks faced competition.

Wapasha II was aware that Robert Dickson had begun building a stockade between Big Stone Lake and Lake Traverse, and was suspicious of his intentions.

Wapasha II explained that the new fort would be a place where the Dakota could trade; it would offer certain services such as blacksmithing; and its proximity would discourage the Ojibwe from attacking the Dakota.

Wapasha II accepted of the presents with thanks, and, after sundown, he came aboard of my boat to visit me, and conversed on many subjects.

Wapasha II is represented as being a wise and prudent man, a forcible and impressive orator.

Wapasha II explained that he had to remain at his village to watch over his band, due to the approach of Ojibwe warriors.

Wapasha II spoke of the advantages of the arts and agriculture; of his wish to see them introduced; he expressed his desire to accept the invitation, given him by the Indian agent, to accompany him to the seat of government, as he was anxious to see how every thing was managed among white men.

Wapasha II explained the ongoing conflict between the Ojibwe and the Dakota, and reminded them of past promises:.

Wapasha II informed the gentlemen in the boat, that the Chippewa Indians had been very troublesome, frequently descending the river that bears their name, and cutting off small parties of the Dacotas that were hunting.

Wapasha II spoke of the advantages of having a mill built at the rapids of Chippewa river, as had been promised to them by the American government.

Wapasha II explained that the Sauk had begun to kill a great many white people, and that Colonel Dodge was brave but had too few men.