Avery is a member of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe and teaches at the Tribe's Montessori School in Mount Pleasant (Mich.). Chief Naakchigaawme (also spelled Nock-chic-a-ming or Nawchigawme or Nauk-e-chig-e-muh, among other spellings), was an Ojibwa Indian who was probably born in the 1770s to Chief Gshemanito (d. 1837) and Payshetoquay (d. 1770s). He may have lived in Canada at one point, but spent most of his life living between Saginaw and Bay City (Mich.). Upon his father's death, Naakchigaawme became chief. In 1830 Chief Naakchigaawme was one of several head chiefs of the Ojibwa (Chippewa) Nation who traveled to Washington, D.C., to carry out provisions of the Treaty of 1830. Also as a head chief of the Ojibwa Nation, he signed the Treaties of 1837, 1855, and 1864. (Note: It is possible that his sons signed the latter treaties using their father's name.) Chief Naakchigaawme was known as an honest, well respected friend and neighbor to white settlers of the Saginaw Valley. He died on Oct. 26, 1874 at an estimated age of nearly 90 to 123 years. According to various sources, Chief Naakchigaawme was survived by his two to 10 wives, numerous children, and their families. David Shoppenagon was his son-in-law. (Information from the collection.).
From the description of Chief Naakchigaawme collection, 2004. (Clarke Historical Library). WorldCat record id: 55480852
