Standing (on) Her Ground: Native American Women & Land Claims in Eastern Iowa

Dr. Jane Simonsen, Augustana professor of history, will present "Standing (on) Her Ground: Native American Women & Land Claims in Eastern Iowa."

Quad-Cities residents who know of the region's history might share the idea that after the Black Hawk War of 1832, the Meskwaki and Sauk peoples were quickly and completely driven out of the area, when in reality many stayed for years.

Some of those who stayed — including a large number of women — fought for the legal right they had to their land. That included Marguerite LeClaire, the wife of Antoine LeClaire, the principal founder of Davenport. She was part Meskwaki and managed to hang onto her land. Her husband was part Pottawatomie.

Dr. Simonsen will share the stories of Native American women who sought a legal claim to their land.

Masks are required at all times in the library. This talk will be offered in-person only.