Leschi more deserving of recognition

LARRY SEABERG | Olympia • Published November 27, 2012 Modified November 26, 2012

0 comments

I must respectfully take exception with one of your readers’ opinion letter of several weeks ago extolling the virtues of our Northwest Territory’s first governor, Isaac Stevens. At a different place and time in our nation’s history, Isaac Steven’s record may very well have been worthy of such praise. However, here as governor, his primary accomplishment was the subordination of the Northwest Indian tribes along with the confiscation of their traditional lands, all under the guise of “fairly negotiated” treaties. His arrogant, deceptive and heavy-handed actions, in that regard, led directly to the Puget Sound Indian War of 1855-1856.

Unfortunately, that avoidable conflict resulted in the bloodshed of innocent pioneers and Indians alike, ultimately leading to the “judicial murder” of Nisqually Chief Leschi on Feb. 19, 1858. That dark chapter in our Pacific Northwest history strongly suggests that Isaac Steven’s actions here as governor were anything but heroic. Your reader’s wish for “a designated state holiday” in recognition of Stevens was surely well-intended. However, I feel that any such honor would be more appropriately directed toward Chief Leschi – a martyr to principle, liberty and the just treatment of his people.

Similar stories:

Our seasoned team is equipped to cover Capitol

Our seasoned team is equipped to cover Capitol

We open the 2013 session of the Legislature on Monday, and as you read in our front-page story, it promises to be a robust one.
Gregoire has much to teach Inslee about Hanford site

Gregoire has much to teach Inslee about Hanford site

For the first time in 24 years, the Tri-Cities won't have Chris Gregoire watching its back.

It's not a prospect that inspires confidence.

Yes, her record of service to the state -- as director of the Department of Ecology, attorney general and governor -- isn't perfect.
Heritage Center plans may face another delay

Heritage Center plans may face another delay

Plans for a Washington State Heritage Center on the Capitol Campus are likely to stall for another year despite a push by Secretary of State Kim Wyman.
Groups ask for big picture look at NW coal ports

Groups ask for big picture look at NW coal ports

Environmental groups and a public health organization want the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to consider the big picture - from mining in Wyoming to air pollution in China - before allowing development of three Northwest ports to ship up to 100 million metric tons of coal a year to Asia.
Olympia Coffee Roasting plans location on Capitol Boulevard

Olympia Coffee Roasting plans location on Capitol Boulevard

Olympia Coffee Roasting Co.’s third cafe is coming to a neighborhood near you — if you live in the South Capitol, Wildwood, Governor Stevens or Carlyon neighborhoods.