Friendship between Indian agent, tribal chief celebrated with return of war bonnet

Family gifts regalia, historic collection to South Dakota state museum

PIERRE — Civil War Maj. Cicero Newell and Sicangu Lakota Chief Spotted Tail have been deceased for more than a century, but their friendship has transcended generations of their ancestors.

Now, the fruits of that connection will forever be preserved at the South Dakota State Historical museum in the capital city thanks to the repatriation of tribal artifacts by Spotted Tail’s fifth-generation son.

Relatives of both Newell and Spotted Tail Wednesday participated in a ceremony at Georgia Morse Middle School Wednesday honoring the gift and the lasting relationship between Newell and Spotted Tails’ families.

Chief John Spotted Tail and his wife Tamara Stands and Looks Back-Spotted Tail speak at an assembly to give their ancestor’s merchandise to the state historical society. (Austin Goss/The Dakota Scout)

“This isn’t just about an artifact, its about a story,” South Dakota State Historical Society director Ben Jones said. “We wanted to commemorate this friendship.”

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