February 13th Discussion Abstract
The Pine Tree Treaty
Margaret Peeters
This treaty involved Chippewa land in Wisconsin and the Governor asking for the pine lumber on which it grew. This pine lumber was cheap and in order for loggers to be granted legal access to the lumber, they would need special permission. Many different successors at this time had ideas for what should be planned for the pine lumber land. Governor Dodge considered the purchase of this land to avoid Indian war. Federal Officials were eager to prevent “a complete monopoly of all the advantages of the pine region.” To gain access to these pine tree lands a treaty was in order. Entrepreneurs saw the pine tree forests as a cheap logging industry that could make them money. The Chiefs agreed to cede the land in agreement for cash payments. And with the understanding that they were allowed to stay on their land; free to use the river for fishing and have the privilege of hunting. The interior bands in Wisconsin assumed American use of the timber would not result in permanent white employment of the area. The Chippewa received their payments. The War department convinced them to accept guns, ammunition, blankets, and other merchandise instead of cash payments. This land, flourishing in pine timber brought many bands and the governmental successor to into play. Making a deal called the Treaty of 1837.
Date created: June, 2002
Last modified: February, 2008
Copyright ©2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 George R. Spangler