Thoughts from Polly's Granddaughter

Dissecting a Family Myth - One Year Later

2012-02-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

As many of my readers know, I have written a series of posts on the Cherokee man named Crane Eater in an effort to ensure the truth is known about him, as opposed to many lies, myths and rumors that are now posted all over the web. It has been a year since my first post on Crane Eater so today, I thought I would write about all the things the year has entailed.

When I originally looked at the information on Crane Eater, the question was, "Were Crane Eater and James Keith the same man?" Within two hours of reviewing the information I had available to me, my conclusion was no. Not only was that my conclusion, I felt very confident in that conclusion based on the documentation and evidence. A descendant of the Keith family seemed very appreciative of my conclusion and left a comment on my blog thanking me for it. I thought that would be the end of it. Unfortunately, it wasn't.

Almost immediately after thanking me, the same Keith descendant started defaming me in their blog. It was if I had become the devil incarnate and everything I did was pure evil, simply because their family was not Cherokee and I was the one who said it. The blogger started posting a variety of documents, twisting their meaning to try to prove me wrong. They even went so far as to post on a facebook page that they had a big plate of steaming crow for my friend, David Cornsilk, and me. The sad thing about it all is no matter what this person said, they would never be able to prove Crane Eater and James Keith were the same man because they weren't.

This quest for truth has led to some things I never could have predicted a year ago. Though being removed from the Geneabloggers blog roll due to supposedly not having content that will move the genealogical community forward and apparently having inappropriate posts; and being referred to as being in "The Battle of the Blogs" in the On the Trail of the Trail blog in a post titled "The Crane Eater Conflict" , many positives have come from this "battle." Recently, a presentation was made to the Tulsa Cherokee Community Organization on the topic of this situation with Crane Eater and James Keith, with the research from this blog being used as the example. Because of this controversy, people have started to notice how far a wannabe will go if someone challenges their claim to Cherokee ancestry. Cherokees have started to pay attention because they don't like it when someone steals their ancestors and claims them as their own. Some have even become proactive in speaking out against such claims. Also because of this controversy, I have been fortunate enough to have been put in contact with some of the top Cherokee researchers in the country. Their knowledge and background into Cherokee records and documentation is unbelievably extensive. If a Cherokee researcher has a question, these are the "go-to" people and I am truly blessed to be able to work with them.

Overall, despite the personal attacks and lies posted about both me and Crane Eater, it has been a great year. Many people, both Cherokee and non-Cherokee, have been educated about the serious issue of wannabes, fake genealogies and the attempts people will make to try to "prove" they are Cherokee. Though at first, I thought it was a "two hour gig" and nothing more, it has turned into one of the greatest opportunities one could hope for when it comes to teaching about those who desperately want to be Cherokee, and therefore will do or say anything they can to "prove" it.

Now, after a year, I have done hundreds of hours of research on both Crane Eater and James Keith, assisted by some wonderful other researchers and genealogists. After these hundreds of hours of research, my conclusion remains the same as after the first two hours of research. James Keith and Crane Eater were NOT the same man. No amount of hoping, wishing or praying will ever make it so. And when this is all said and done, it won't be me or my friend who's...

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Destroying the Field - Diggin' Up Bones

2012-02-02T04:37:00.000-08:00

I'm diggin' up bones, I'm diggin' up bones.....Exhuming things that's better left alone..........

When digging around, we are bound to unearth something. Sometimes that something is what we were looking for and other times, maybe something better left alone. The case of the Van family who claims to descend from John Vann, son of John Shepard Vann and Elizabeth Pack Fields Coody Vann, is one such example. What someone seems to have done is dug around, found a Cherokee man with a similar name as their ancestor and then replaced their ancestor with that Cherokee man and invented a story and lineage that links them to the Cherokee Nation. The problem with this lineage is that, though invented, it is spreading across the internet like wildfire, and many people accept it as true.

The claim - Though there are a few variations, the basic premise of the story is that Elizabeth died during the Civil War and John Shepard Vann then married a white woman who made the younger John do "squaw's work." It is claimed because John had to do women's work, the other children laughed and made fun of him, so at the age of eight, he ran away, never having contact with his family again.

Fast forward to 1879 - The claim is the younger John married a woman named Sarah Matilda Himes or Hines (the spelling varies from tree to tree), produced children in the 1880s and died in 1899 in Texas.

First, Elizabeth Pack Fields Coody Vann did not die during the Civil War. She lived until July 1893, as reported in the Eastern Cherokee applications of her two children, Ella F. Robinson (8704) and Charles E. Vann (9157). This means John Shepard Vann did not marry a white woman after the Civil War. He was still married to the living mother of his son, John.

Though the descendants of Sarah Matilda Hines/Himes claim her husband was the Cherokee John Vann, who was the son of John S. Vann and Elizabeth Pack Fields, and that the Cherokee John Vann was the father of her children, this CANNOT be true. Sarah's oldest living child, a son, was born about 1886. There were several others born after him. The Cherokee John Vann died in 1879, therefore, he was dead approximately seven years before the birth of Sarah's oldest living child. It is not possible that he was the father of that child or any child that followed.

The evidence that the Cherokee John Vann died in 1879 is readily available because his death caused quite a commotion at the time. He was killed in Muskogee during a time when there was a lot of conflict between the affluent Cherokee mixed bloods and the Creek freedmen who lived on opposite sides of the boundary between the Cherokee and Creek Nations. His death was so well documented, even a novice genealogist should have been able to find evidence of it.

John's half sister, Ella F. Robinson, reported in her Eastern Cherokee application that he died without descent.

John's nephew, John C. Robinson, son of Ella, said in a WPA interview for the Indian-Pioneer History Project for Oklahoma that his uncle, Johnnie Vann, was killed in a meat market in Muskogee.

Though those two pieces of information should make one question the claim of the Sarah M. Hines/Himes descendants, since Ella C. Robinson says her brother died without descent, no date is listed for his death, therefore, most genealogists would continue to dig for more documentation. Hopefully, they would turn up the last bit of information to clear up any doubt. It is found in a letter Elizabeth Pack Fields Coody Vann wrote to the chief of the Cherokee Nation after the death of her son.

Cherokee Nation
Canadian District, Aug. 25th 1879

Hon. Charles Thompson
Chief Cherokee Nation

Sir:

On the 2nd day of Aug AD 1879 a band of armed Freedmen consisting of William Peters, Joe Barnett, Ben Barnett and Mose Redmouth citizens of the Muskoke Nation and Clem Kanady a citizen of the United States came into the town of Muskoke in Muskoke District Muskoke Nation shot and killed my son John Vann. A number of shots were fired at him by different persons. It seems to have been a shot from a gun in the hands of Joe Barnett which killed him
Under the Internations law between the Cherokee and Muskoke Nations the crime is to be tried by the laws of said Muskoke Nation. I am a Cherokee subject to the laws an claim the protection of my nation and as of you as the chief Executive officer to demand of the authorities of the Muskoke nation a fair and just trial that the murderer or murderers be punished and if it is the duty of the Attorney General of the Cherokee Nation to attend to and prosecute the case that he be directed to proceed at once
I will furnish the names of witnesses whenever they are wanted

Very Respectfully
Your obt. Svt.
Elizabeth P Vann

That letter shows that the entire story told by the descendants of Sarah M. Hines/Himes cannot be true. First, it shows the mother of John Vann did not die during the Civil War, since she is living 15 years after it ended. Secondly, it shows John Vann did not run away and have no further contact with his family. They knew where he was and what he was doing and were more than aware of the facts surrounding his death. And lastly, it gives the date, August 2, 1879, as the date of death of John Vann.

The Vann family was affluent and well documented. It is difficult to believe such a glaring error could be made in their lineage, but unfortunately, one was. This case reveals many issues we have in Cherokee genealogy and what is accepted by some as true. It touches on some things that may shock people. Stay tuned for the next installment in the series, Destroying the Field - The Ramifications, to see how people digging up the bones of a Cherokee and claiming him as their own when he is not is very much an example of exhuming things that are better left alone.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

**A special Thank You to my research partner who went to the library and got a copy of the Elizabeth P. Vann letter for this post.**

Sources -
--Eastern Cherokee Applications - Fold3
--University of Oklahoma Libraries Western History Collections, Indian Pioneer Collection,
Volume 77, Interview with John C. Robinson
--Elizabeth P. Vann letter - Cherokee Nation Papers (CNP) Roll 38, Box 110, Folder 3759

Destroying the Field - Some People Dig and Find Gold......(part 1)

Destroying the Field - Grandpa Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days (part 2)

Destroying the Field - Grandpa, Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days

2012-01-28T13:25:00.000-08:00

Can't you see it now? Children sitting around their daddy or their grandpa asking about the good old days? Oh how we love those old family stories! Of course they endear us to our grandpa, or daddy, or whoever is telling the story to us, but a word of caution.............those stories might not always be based in fact. For one reason or another, grandpa might have wanted to make the story a little more exciting or entertaining to his grandchildren or maybe someone tried to make the story more entertaining to him when he was a child, so he is just repeating what he heard. Maybe when the story was first told, it was true, but somehow, after being retold from generation to generation, more has been added so that it no longer resembles the original story.

Today, I am going to share one such story. I don't know the origination of it. I just know it is now becoming an internet myth, rapidly spreading, and being accepted as true. I imagine it has changed over the years and may not even resemble the original story today. Though I have repeatedly said family stories are unreliable, a lot of people disagree. I assure you, by the end of this series, "Destroying the Field," you will see why this family story is NOT true and you will see the ramifications of so many people accepting it as such without doing their own thorough research.

The name of the Cherokee claimed - John Vann, son of John Shepard Vann and Elizabeth Pack Fields.

The claim - Though there are a few variations, the basic premise of the story is that Elizabeth died during the Civil War and John Shepard Vann then married a white woman who made the younger John do "squaw's work." It is claimed because John had to do women's work, the other children laughed and made fun of him, so at the age of eight, he ran away, never having contact with his family again.

Fast forward to 1879 - The claim is the younger John married a woman named Sarah Matilda Himes or Hines (the spelling varies from tree to tree), produced children in the 1880s and died in 1899 in Texas.

Today, the descendants of Sarah claim to be Cherokee through this line -

James Vann - builder of the famed Vann House in Georgia
Rich Joe Vann - favorite son and inheritor of the Vann House after James' death
John Shepard Vann - active in Cherokee politics and a judge for the Circuit and Supreme Courts
John Vann - son of John Shepard Vann and Elizabeth Pack Fields Coody Vann

There's a lot of rich history in that family. Lots of exciting documentation exists today on several generations of the family because they were affluent and active in Cherokee politics. There is more than enough documentation to show that John Vann, son of John Shepard Vann and Elizabeth Pack Vann, did NOT father any of Sarah Matilda Himes/Hines' children, and that he is NOT he ancestor of those who descend through her. Stay tuned for the next installment in this series, "Destroying the Field - Diggin' Up Bones" where I will show you, through documentation, why this often shared, commonly accepted family story, is not true.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Destroying the Field - Some People Dig and Find Gold......(part 1)
Destroying the Field - Diggin' Up Bones (part 3)

Destroying the Field - Some People Dig and Find Gold..................

2012-01-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

........others dig and find ancestors who are not theirs. Destroys the whole field (of genealogy.)

Stay tuned for more in the new series, "Destroying the Field."

Source - The Indiana Messenger; Indiana, Pennsylvania; August 11, 1869; p 2.

*Case brought to my attention by a concerned reader. Topic suggested by a friend. Thanks to you both!*

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Destroying the Field - Grandpa Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days (part 2)
Destroying the Field - Diggin' Up Bones (part 3)

Things I've Learned While Doing Cherokee Genealogy

2012-01-24T03:10:00.000-08:00

1 - People don't want to know the truth
It's true! When someone is looking for Cherokee ancestry, that is what they are looking for so telling them anything different, no matter how true it is, will just not cut the mustard. Never ever ever mistake one who is looking for Cherokee ancestry for one who is doing Cherokee genealogy. These two things often do not go hand in hand. Instead, they are more likely to go toe to toe!

2 - Not to challenge white people
I'm not kidding! Don't do it! By all means, do not challenge them or draw attention when they do something that offends Cherokees. If you do, the big, bad white man is going to remove you! Trust me. There is a reason my blog is no longer part of that online genealogical blogger community blog list. Aw well, it isn't the first time a Cherokee has been forced out by whites!*

3 - Our ancestors are up for grabs
Honestly! Believe it or not, if you look around, you will find that some who claim to have done Cherokee genealogy have done nothing but, figuratively speaking, gone grave robbing and stolen our Cherokee ancestors' dead bodies. These folks take a dead corpse, prop it up in their family tree* and proudly display it like a hunter does his mounted deer head trophy! It's disgusting! If ancestor stealing was a crime, these folks would be listed on the Genealogical Bureau of Investigation's Most Wanted List!

4 - There is still an "Indian problem"
Don't believe me? Go read any genealogy forum or discussion board overrun with wannabes. To them, "Cherokees" are to be respected and honored, till they meet one, a real one. Then they describe us as mean spirited, nasty and hateful. How dare we ask them who their people are! How dare we ask them how they connect to OUR nation! How dare we not accept them as one of us, no questions asked! How dare.......... You get the picture. When it comes to wannabes, we Indians are a problem. They want the last thing we have left......our identity......and we won't let them have it.

5 - Attempts at genocide continue today
Seriously. Though there are no dead bodies laying around (as explained in #3 above!), there are still attempts at genocide against the Cherokees going on today. It is what I call paper genocide. Instead of killing us outright, they are now trying to erase our Indian ancestors from history and replace them with their white ancestors. By doing so, not only do they get rid of that particular Indian, they also get rid of all of his descendants and replace those descendants with those of the white man. It is genealogical smoke and mirrors at its finest and some folks enjoy the show enough to believe it. Thank goodness it is all an illusion that can be sorted out and corrected by a team of determined and dedicated researchers. Hold on, Crane Eater! We're comin' for ya!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

* Comments previously made by David Cornsilk.

When You Just Have to Do Something....

2012-01-23T01:08:00.000-08:00

I get a lot of emails from readers asking for advice, requesting look-ups, or searching for other information. Many times, after I do what I can to help, they ask what they can do to repay me or if I want money for helping them. Absolutely not. I do this so people have a place to get accurate information on Cherokee history and good advice on how to search for Cherokee ancestry or do one's Cherokee genealogy. As long as people learn and myths are dispelled, I am happy. But, still some people feel they really must do something. If you are one of these people (and you know who you are!), my advice is and has always been to pay it forward. You are free to pay it forward in anyway you want, but since I am asked so often, I thought I would share a little information about my favorite charity.

War Pony Community Outreach Inc. is a 501 (3) c non profit organization. It was founded by Cherokees; Raymond Vann, Sioux Smith-Vann, Jack Christie and Art Floyd. It's mission is to serve the people in the 14 county service area of the Cherokee Nation and to help provide those in need with necessities to improve their quality of life. Though War Pony assists anyone who requests help, its main clients are Cherokee.

In the beginning, War Pony was well funded and thrived, but with the downward spiral of the economy, donations have decreased. But through Raymond Vann's vigilance and hard work, War Pony has still managed to obtain food, furniture, clothing, or whatever is needed when they are called upon for help. Raymond works tirelessly serving the Cherokee people in need and sometimes provides help out of his own pocket if War Pony funds are depleted.

Just a few of the things War Pony has helped with in the past are: water well and minor home repairs; referrals to legal aid resources; emergency assistance with food and diapers; utility payments; rental assistance; job referrals; and providing Christmas gifts. War Pony also has a list of other agencies and resources to send people to if they are not able to help.

Though there are other charities operating within the Cherokee Nation service area, War Pony is the only one I know that, though not limited to, primarily provides help to Cherokees. Some other charities may use the name Cherokee or say they are operated by Cherokees, but that doesn't mean they primarily help Cherokees and it doesn't even mean they are all actually Cherokees providing the help. It just means they use the word. So, if you are looking for a charity that primarily provides help for the Cherokee people, War Pony is the only one I would recommend.

Donations can be sent to:

War Pony Community Outreach Inc.
c/o Raymond Vann
21828 N Ben George Rd
Tahlequah, OK 74464

or call (918)458-9095 for more information.

Those are my thoughts for today. Thanks for reading. And remember, Pay It Forward!

***Note - In 2010, Raymond Vann was recognized for his work through War Pony at the AARP Indian Elders Honors. ***

Thriller Thursday - Conclusion to the Groundhog Murder Trial

2012-01-19T03:00:00.000-08:00

Source - The Cherokee Advocate; Tahlequah, Oklahoma; September 19, 1884.

So, there we have it. Apparently, Groundhog was convicted of the murder of John Moore and sentenced to death, but then later received a reprieve and was set free.

Is this the same Groundhog who was the stepson of my third great grandfather, Dave Tadpole? I still don't know, but I am continuing to research and will post updates as I learn more.

From My Inbox - It Isn't Just Me Who Says It!

2012-01-17T04:49:00.000-08:00

"Enjoyed the latest articles very much ! Especially the Custer part !

With more and more people gaining access to the Guion Miller Apps, then there will be more and more people claiming "I am Cherokee", based simply on something old Great Great Aunt Emily or dear old great great gramps supposedly said....................

And she/he NEVER lied !

Over the years, I've traced more than a few families who submitted applications, rejected applications that is, and one thing that always emerges, is that for around 100 years BEFORE Guion Miller, these families were very definitely Free White Citizens of the United States......................and strangely enough, they continued to be Free White Citizens for 100 years AFTER Guion Miller.

There's just this very brief window of opportunity in a 200 year time span when these folk claimed they were Cherokee, which strangely co-incided with the government handing out money!

Curious, huh ?

Well, not really.

They were simply "hiding their ancestry".

Pretending to be Free White Citizens of the United States, with all the attendant advantages accorded to FWC's, that were denied to Indians. Basically, they lied to the government.

Or did they ?

Perhaps, they lied on their Guion Miller Applications ?

That's a decision these descendants will have to make.

"Hiding their ancestry" is something that gets right up my.................elbow. Every time I see one of those messages, I just think " Well, jeez, why didn't my folks think of that?" "

*****
Wow! Nice message! I couldn't have said it better myself! Thanks for sharing!

You Can't Handle the Truth!

2012-01-17T03:42:00.000-08:00

Truth is non-negotiable. Either something is true or it isn't. Yesterday, I was apparently "taken to task" over "truths." Apparently we all have our own truths. Whaaaaaaaaat? Back up there, buddy! We all have our own truths? Are you kidding me?

Fact is fact and fiction is fiction. In genealogy, we are supposed to be looking for facts, or I thought we were. But apparently not. Apparently it is okay for someone to claim any old thing they want about our Cherokee ancestors, with no real evidence or documentation to support what they say, and that is all okay. Pay attention here, folks. Watch what is going on........Did you see what I just said? It is okay for someone to write whatever the heck they want and try to pass it off as Cherokee genealogy and nobody has a problem with it. If a blog in the genealogical blogging community does this, IT IS OKAY! That blog will be promoted, tweeted, and shared all over the place, no questions asked. After all, we all have our own "truths."

But.......

What is not okay is for a Cherokee to take offense at that. What? Seriously it is not okay for a Cherokee to see it, point it out, and then say it was offensive. Don't believe me? Check out my recent interactions on Twitter. My tweet, "Promoting a blog that perpetuates myths about Cherokee ancestry is an insult to real Cherokee people," resulted in my being sent a nasty email and a later response on Twitter that included #bringit.

Are you kidding me? Bring it? Someone who is supposed to be a genealogist, seeking to get their certification, is going to tell me to "bring it" over this Crane Eater thing? Seriously, are you freaking kidding me? Crane Eater and James Keith were not the same man. The evidence and documentation clearly show it. This is not about a fight, a battle or personal attacks. It is about the truth, the real truth, and not some work of fiction being passed off as the truth.

Now if you want me to bring it, I can, but you better get ready because, to borrow some of your words to me, "I’m not a shrinking violet," and I'm "last person you want to #$%& off" when it comes to our Cherokee ancestors. You know there are some things that are very wrong here, yet rather than admit what you did might actually be offensive to Cherokees, you would rather attack me for saying it was offensive. That's fine. You made it perfectly clear where you stand on this issue. But, like it or not, Cherokees have the right to say all this wannabe hub-bub and the support and encouragement of it is offensive to us. That is our right and that is the truth. Oh, but I forgot, you can't handle the truth.

For the truth about Crane Eater and the never ending saga, please read:

Dissecting a Family Myth - William Loranzo Dow Keith

Dissecting a Family Myth - Keith Family Part 2

When Wannabes Attack (Again)

Let Crane Eater Rest In Peace

From My Inbox

This is How We Do It! (Cherokee Wannabe Genealogy)

She's Dug In, Baby! Let the Battle for Truth In Genealogy Begin

Crane Eater - A Story of Mistaken Identity and the Quest for Truth

Sentimental Sunday - Crane Eater: A Story of Mistaken Identity and the Quest for Truth

2012-01-15T03:42:00.000-08:00

Who was Crane Eater and why does his life matter?

Crane Eater was a full blood Cherokee and he was born in the old Cherokee Nation East. He served in the War of 1812 with a Cherokee regiment and did battle with Andrew Jackson against the Creeks. He was active in Cherokee politics and in 1835, he was living on the Coosawattee River in Georgia. He wasn't a rich man. Just a man of humble means living in his small home with 10 others in his full blood family.

Though he, along with nearly 16,000 others, signed a petition to remain in the east, his beloved homeland, he and the others were forced out; rounded up, arrested by the military and taken to the dreaded, horrific stockades where the Cherokees were held for months. He, like the other Cherokees, left on the now infamous Trail of Tears. He traveled through Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri before finally reaching the Indian Territory. The weather and cold was nearly unbearable. The detachment he traveled with, just like those ahead of them and behind them, was forced to stop due to the frozen Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. People were suffering all around him. Everyone was sick. Many died.

Finally, in the early spring of 1839, he reached the Indian Territory. He settled on the Caney in Flint District with the surviving members of his family. Later, in 1842, he filed a claim against the United States government for the property he was forced to leave behind in the old nation. He was forced to abandon nearly everything he owned and never had a chance to retrieve it or sell it. Though under less than desirable circumstances, he did rebuild his life.

That life, the life of Crane Eater, matters because he is just one of many Cherokees from the old days whose lives are now being investigated. Sometimes their lives are studied by Cherokees but many times, their lives and history are studied by other people. Often those other people study our ancestors because they believe they, the other people, are Cherokee. Too many times, those other people are wrong.

Today, in the year 2012, one hundred and seventy four years after the Trail of Tears, there are a lot of rumors about Crane Eater that are not true. There is a white family who claims to have come from him. He did not know them and he never knew any of their people, yet they say he was the father of one of them. This is not true. He never knew the man they claim was his son. He was not married to the woman they claim was his wife. I imagine he would not like it that they try to give him children and a wife that were not his. I doubt he could ever understand why they do it. He had his own family. I believe he probably loved his family. This is why the story of his life matters.

Crane Eater was a full blood Cherokee man who had a family. For a white family to claim he was their ancestor and that his children were their ancestor's children is an outrage. By doing this, they are trying to erase the real Crane Eater and his family from history and replace them with James Keith, a white man, and his family. This is unacceptable and it is very disrespectful. Crane Eater deserves better than that. He stayed with his nation, through thick and thin, helping, as an average Cherokee citizen, to build it into what it is today. He never abandoned his nation or his people. He was one of those who signed the petition to try to keep their homeland. He was one those who was forcibly rounded up and removed. And he was one of those who survived to start over. It is important that people know the truth about Crane Eater and his life. If he is to be remembered, then he would want to be remembered for who he really was. To remember him any other way is a shame and dishonor to both him and the Cherokee people.

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

She's dug in, baby! Let the Battle for Truth in Genealogy Begin!

2012-01-15T01:43:00.000-08:00

Because I have done such extensive research on the Cherokee man named Crane Eater, it is not uncommon for me to do a Google search on him periodically. I saw something last weekend on a genealogy forum that was incorrect and decided to respond to it. I think people have the right to get accurate information. Let's just say things got interesting after that!

Like I have said so many times before, some people really don't care about the truth when it comes to Cherokee genealogy. They want to be Cherokee, so by gosh, they are going to be, whether they really are or not! And, the debate on the forum proved this point.

One message posted said,
"You're waging a losing battle. I'm going to continue my research; Nothing you say or do will stop my efforts or what I blog about. I've dug in, baby."

If that doesn't prove everything I have been saying all along in this Crane Eater saga, I don't know what does.

"You're waging a losing battle."
"Nothing you say...will stop my efforts or what I blog about."
"I've dug in, baby."

It is now perfectly clear, nothing, I mean, NOTHING, I say, no matter how accurate it is, no matter how much it is based on actual documentation, no matter how honest I am about it, NOTHING will stop this person from wrongly claiming Crane Eater as their ancestor. NOTHING. After all, this isn't a quest for truth, but instead, it is a "battle" and they've "dug in." Not only are such comments cocky and arrogant, they also show someone grossly underestimates the documentation I have. Isn't that sad? I thought we were doing genealogy here.

Anyway, apparently I am now in battle...

Gee, an Anglo going to battle against an Indian. That's nothing new.

But, before this apparent battle begins, I would like to remind everyone about a bit of history. Remember a man named George Armstrong Custer? He, too, was arrogant and cocky. He, too, wanted to go to battle. And he, too, underestimated the Indians. Now you tell me..........how'd that work out for him?

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Photo - painting by Richard Lorenz "The Last Glow Of A Passing Nation"

Friday Funny - Nothing Like Posing with Your Hog!

2012-01-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

Rebecca/Rebekah Alice Keys Boothe, from the Cherokee Keys Family, here posing with her hog.

Thriller Thursday - Groundhog Guilty, Sentenced to Hang

2012-01-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

Source - The Cherokee Advocate; Tahlequah, Oklahoma; July 4, 1884; p.3.

Part One

Part Two

Wordless Wednesday - Segment of the Trail of Tears Route

2012-01-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

Near Golconda, Illinois.

Tuesday's Tip - Getting Your Family More Interested in Genealogy

2012-01-10T02:36:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, sometimes it is difficult to get the rest of your family as interested in your family history and genealogy as you are. After racking my brain to find ways to make it more fun and exciting for them, I decided to put together some videos. I used the site, OneTrueMedia. It is very easy to use and gives you a lot of different options for adding photos, video clips, themes, etc...

Though impossible to get them to sit down and go through old documents and papers with me, my family would sit for a few minutes and watch a video. And, the videos worked. After watching them, they were full of questions, like, "Who was that?" or "How am I related to them?" The videos also made things seem more real and sentimental to my family.

So, if you are looking for ways to get your family more interested, I would recommend making a video and showing it at a family dinner, reunion or holiday. It worked for me. An example of the videos I have made is below. It features the descendants of my third great grandma, Polly Tadpole.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Tombstone Tuesday - Couseen Downing

2012-01-10T01:33:00.000-08:00

Born December 13, 1833. Died July 1, 1876.

Re interred in the (new) Fisher Cemetery; Wagoner County, Oklahoma.

Original burial location unknown.

Beware the Eastern Redbud!

2012-01-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

"Cherokee trivia: Did you know that trees figure prominently in Cherokee culture. Some trees are sacred such as Cedar and Holly. Others are important food sources such as hickory, chinquapin and chestnut. And some become sacred when included in the seven woods used to kindle the ceremonial fire. One tree is neither sacred nor particular special, except for it's name, which makes it interesting. That is the Eastern Redbud known to Cherokees as Da-yi-go-gi or Liar. It is called this because it is the first tree to bloom in the spring often before the last heavy frost. If the farmer planted based on the Liar, the tender crops would be lost." David Cornsilk, Cherokee historian and activist

Well, that's interesting, but how does it fit into genealogy?

Cherokee genealogy trivia: Did you know that the Eastern Cherokee Applications figure prominently in Cherokee genealogy? Some applications are valuable because they offer evidence of Cherokee ancestry. Others are important because they offer Cherokee genealogical information found nowhere else. One type is neither valuable or important when proving Cherokee ancestry, which makes it interesting. That type is the rejected application. It could have been rejected because a Cherokee who descended from Old Settlers made it, but, most likely, it was rejected because the person applying simply was not Cherokee. Many non-Cherokees applied, believing the Cherokees had no records, therefore they could get some of the settlement money. For this reason, rejected applications are like the Eastern Redbud or Liar. It is the first documentation wannabes cling to, often without anything else that suggests their ancestors were Cherokee. Beware the the Eastern Redbud, or Eastern application (rejected)! If a person claims to be Cherokee based on a Da-yi-go-gi, all truth in their genealogy may be lost.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

This Is How We Do It! (Cherokee Wannabe Genealogy)

2012-01-07T04:51:00.000-08:00

First, some music to get you in the mood to do some Cherokee Wannabe Genealogy!

Whew! Got so busy shaking my hind-end that I almost forgot what I was writing about today. As I wipe the sweat from my brow, I'll tell you how to do wannabe genealogy!

Step 1 - Grab a real name from your real family tree.

---For our example, we will use a white family tree and we will use the name John Keith.

Step 2 - Figure out some information on said real person from your family tree. (Don't worry about learning very much. You are just going to swap him out in a bit anyway.)

---White John Keith was the son of Cornelius Keith and Mary LaFoone.

Step 3 - Find a Cherokee who has the same name as your said ancestor.

---For our example, we will use a Cherokee John Keath/Keith.

Step 4 -Learn a little about the real Cherokee.

(Don't worry about learning too much about the Cherokee because all you need is the name and one or two details about him to make it look good. You are going to change everything else. After all, you have to make your family fit in his tree 'cause you wannabe a Cherokee!)

---John Keath/Keith was the father of a woman named Betsy. Betsy married Caleb Starr. And they were the parents of a James Starr. (Ok, that is enough to make it look good. I think we can fool them now!)

Step 5 - Mix and match the information for both people.

Hmmm......let's see, we will say this, "James Starr was the son of Caleb Starr and Betsy Keith. Betsy was the daughter of John Keith and Polly A-S-DU-I-S-DI. This John was the son of Cornelius Keith and Mary LaFoone."

Step 6 - Now build a good story around it connecting the person from your family tree to your ancestor.

---"James Starr said his mother was a full blood, so that means both her parents were full bloods. Since John was her father, that means he was a full blood, therefore, his parents were full bloods. This John Keith was the nephew of my ancestor, Samuel or Lemuel or whatever the heck we are calling him today, so since John was a full blood Cherokee, that means my ancestor was at least part Indian!"

Step 7 - Step back and revel in your success at making yourself a Cherokee.

(Boy, that is some slick stuff. You'll probably get away with it unless that "bee", Polly's Granddaughter, gets written to by an enraged reader asking her to explain how you managed to steal their ancestor.)

Step 8 - Have your story debunked.

(Crap! Someone emailed her!)

Yes, someone emailed me. I would post their message here, but because of the curse words in the message, it is probably best I don't. We try to keep this family friendly! :) Anyway...

It doesn't take much to debunk this one. John Keith, the son of Cornelius Keith and Mary LaFoone, was the husband of a woman named Jane or Mary Jane Mackey. Their family is pretty well documented and he had no daughter named Betsy. He is found living with his daughter, Mary E. Keith, and her husband Noble Glenn, in Eastern Division, Pickens, South Carolina in 1850. He died in South Carolina in 1853 and is buried the Oolenoy Baptist Church Cemetery in Pumpkintown, Pickens County, South Carolina. The family is repeatedly found in United States records and always listed as white.

The Cherokee John Keith, son of Du-dee-guah-na-guh and Too-nah-ye, was living in Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory in 1851 with his wife and younger children. (Betsy already had her own household.) His descendants all testified he was born east of the Mississippi River. There is a John Keith listed as living in Georgia on the 1835 census of the Cherokee Nation. The family is repeatedly found in records of the Cherokees -- 1880 and 1890 censuses, service with the Indian Home Guard (side note - John's son, George was in the same company as my 4x great grandpa, Mike Carey), etc...

So what we actually have is a white John Keith who lived and died in South Carolina and a Cherokee John Keith who lived in the old Cherokee Nation and then removed to Indian Territory on the Trail of Tears in 1838. They clearly were not the same man.

To my enraged reader, it will be okay. The truth always prevails, so I guess we should be singing something about debunking myths, huh? Come on, sing it with me.....this is how we do it...........

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

copyright 2012, Polly's Granddaughter - TCB

GQGRM2QADH3E

Be Careful in Your Assumptions

2012-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Not so long ago, I read another genealogy blog where the writer believed they had found a "junior" in a family, based on what they thought they saw written on a Cherokee claim against the United States government in 1842.

What they saw was this -

They believed this said, "Crane Eater Jr." Because of their assumption, they believed there were two Crane Eaters, a father and a son. Unfortunately, they were wrong on both accounts. A little background knowledge of what they were reading and/or Cherokee history would have been helpful.

That is not a "Jr" following the name Crane Eater, but instead a "Dr". It is the acronym for "debtor." This "Dr" is found on many, many of the Cherokee claims filed against the United States. Another example showing the same thing -

This example of misinterpreted data shows us why one must be knowledgeable about the documents they are reviewing. Without such knowledge, something can be misunderstood and taken out of context of the true meaning. It is unfortunate that often, in the pursuit of Cherokee genealogy, there are a lot of people trying to decipher data that they don't understand. This often leads to glaringly obvious errors in their research that they don't see, so they continue on, making more blunders, until their "genealogy" is nothing more an example of how not to do Cherokee genealogy.

So, as you pursue your endeavor to find your Cherokee ancestors, be careful out there, folks! Don't assume anything if you don't understand what you are reading or if you don't know the purpose of the document you are analyzing. Stop, ask questions, email me, or do whatever you need to do in order to understand the information before you move on. Wouldn't it be heartbreaking to spend years working on a family line, only to discover later that you had made an error that led you down the wrong path because you didn't understand the data? It would be to me.

Avoid being an example of "what not to do in Cherokee genealogy" and be careful in your assumptions. After all, you know what assuming does, don't you? Assume = Ass/u/me :)

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Source info - Photographs are crops from the 1842 claims Cherokees, Crane Eater and Daniel Pumpkinpile, filed against the United States.

*Note - Later, we will discuss the assumption of there being a father and son with the same name, but that is for another day! *

Thriller Thursday - Groundhog Trial Continued

2012-01-05T02:56:00.000-08:00

Follow up story from Thriller Thursday - Whiskey-Pistol-Death

Source - The Cherokee Advocate; Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory; Friday, June 20, 1884.

Part One

Tombstone Tuesday - John Moore

2012-01-03T02:27:00.000-08:00

John Moore was the son of Matthew Reader Moore and Sarah Woodward (sister to my ancestor, Redbird Woodward.) He was a sergeant in Company C, Cherokee Mounted Volunteers, CSA. He was the husband of Susan Dennis (sister to my ancestor, Peggy Dennis) and they were the parents of William Moore and Sadie (Moore) Rowe.

A few weeks ago, I featured a news article about the shooting of my great, great, great grandfather, Dave Tadpole. John Moore was with him and was also shot. John died from those wounds.

Matrilineal Monday - Polly's Granddaughters (Part 1)

2012-01-02T02:45:00.000-08:00

Some of Polly's (other) granddaughters from the Tadpole, Pumpkin and Tuggle families.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Repetition of a Lie

2012-01-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

pics on Sodahead

Though not a Cherokee themed picture, I thought it was appropriate for this blog. So many people want to base their genealogy on family stories instead of the actual documentation and evidence that is available. Sorry folks, but if the evidence says your ancestor was not Cherokee, then they weren't Cherokee and repeating a lie over and over will never make it the truth!

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.
The Granddaughter.

Top 5 - Best "Cherokee" Songs

2011-12-31T08:49:00.000-08:00

It's time for another poll! These are my nominations for the best of the best songs that mention "Cherokee" in them. Some are fun, others sentimental, and others, inspirational. Listen to them and decide which you think is the best of the best and cast your vote at the bottom of the post.

5. Ballad of Will Rogers - Chris LeDoux

Reason -Just a fun little song about the famous Cherokee, Will Rogers.

4. Cherokee Fiddle - Johnny Lee

Reason - There were a lot of Cherokee men who played the fiddle, my own grandpa being one. Though a somewhat sad song, it does remind us Cherokees of those more recent generations of fiddlers in our families. It seems most of us know someone in our family, whether it was a grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle, or other relation, who played the fiddle.

3. Tsa La Gi, We Are Many - Becky Hobbs
http://www.myspace.com/beckyhobbsmusic/music/albums/tsa-la-gi-we-are-many-17039585
(Click the link and then click the ">" beside the song to play it. I am sorry but Becky doesn't have a video for the song, but I didn't want to exclude it from the list because of that.)

Reason - A touching song that Becky sang at the inauguration of recently elected Principal Chief, Bill John Baker.

4. Cherokee Rose - Corey Smith

Reason - Give it a listen. I think you will figure out why it made the list.(Just a note - I don't like the video because of some of the stereotypical images and the fake "Iron Eyes Cody" that is in it, but it was about the only video I could find for the song. I do like the lyrics.)

1. Different People - Litefoot

Reason - I really, really LOVE this song. Not only is it sung by a Cherokee, it makes some good points. Litefoot has managed, in this song, to put into words, what so many of us have thought and felt for a long time.

Ok, those are my picks for the five best songs that mention "Cherokee" in them. Now it is your turn. Click below to cast your vote!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Worst of the Worst Songs - Poll Results

2011-12-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

The poll has closed and it was a very close race that ended up in a tie between Indian Outlaw (Tim McGraw) and Cherokee Morning Song (Walela) "winning" as worst song, each getting 30% of the vote. Coming in a close second was Halfbreed (Cher) with 27% of the vote.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

"Go Hard or Go Home" - Facts vs Fiction

2011-11-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hard evidence. That is what one needs to honestly claim to be Cherokee or of Cherokee descent. I didn't make the rules of genealogy. I didn't make the rules of citizenship for the three federally recognized tribes either. But I follow those rules and I respect those rules.

Those who disagree with my following those rules tend to miss the point. They will say, "She doesn't decide who is Cherokee," without addressing the fact that I only follow Cherokee law on who is or is not Cherokee. I don't decide who is an American either, but I quote the law on that as well and no one seems to have a problem with it, so why is quoting the laws on who is or is not Cherokee any different?

A lot of people miss the point on the genealogical issues as well. People who claim to be Cherokee or Cherokee descent with no hard proof think I, or others, who speak out against such things, are evil or mean or "from the dark side." Why? We are simply following the Standards for Sound Genealogical Research. Some I would like to point out are:

test every hypothesis or theory against credible evidence, and reject those that are not supported by the evidence;
seek original records, or reproduced images of them when there is reasonable assurance they have not been altered, as the basis for their research conclusions;
state something as a fact only when it is supported by convincing evidence, and identify the evidence when communicating the fact to others;
limit with words like "probable" or "possible" any statement that is based on less than convincing evidence, and state the reasons for concluding that it is probable or possible;
avoid misleading other researchers by either intentionally or carelessly distributing or publishing inaccurate information;

Notice how these mention using original records; stating something only as fact when there is supporting evidence; limiting words like "possible"; and avoid misleading others by carelessly distributing inaccurate information? I didn't make those rules. Those came from the National Genealogical Society.

"A lineage, pedigree, or genealogy is a series of related assertions proved by a complex web of interwoven evidence." It is NOT a family story passed down that has no credible supporting evidence. Rejected Eastern Cherokee applications (Miller applications); family pictures; and the word of others who say they have heard the same thing are NOT credible supporting evidence. Taking a guess or jumping all over the map to make things fit the way one wants is not a web of interwoven evidence.

An example:

"My name is LouLou. I know someone named LouAnne. I must be her cousin. Wait, LouLou sounds a lot like Lucy. I'm related to Lucille Ball. And Ball must be the same thing as Round. Which looks like Ronald, so I bet that means Ronald Regan, so I am related to him too!"

As absurd as that example sounds, it happens. Lordy sakes, believe me, it happens! People who have no understanding of the Cherokee language or naming conventions jump in and start looking for names that "might" match, so they assume. They try online translators which offer nothing in the area of genealogy, but they think it does so they take that translation and run with it and end up making a mess of things just like the scenario above.

Genealogical evidence is found in good, hard sources, not in one's imagination. Documents that can be sound, supporting evidence are military service records, pension applications, land records, wills, immigration records, census records, etc...If one is Cherokee, there are also other numerous records and rolls that can be used such as the censuses of the Cherokee Nation taken in 1835, 1869, 1880, 1883, 1886, 1890, 1894, 1896; the numerous rolls including but not limited to the Reservation Roll, the Emigration Roll; the Old Settler Rolls; and the Dawes, Miller, Siler, Drennen, Chapman and Baker rolls. There are also records of the claims made by Cherokees for property, transportation and subsistence. This is not a complete list of everything available on the Cherokees, but is a good starting place.

So, if you have a family story of Cherokee ancestry, yet your ancestor is found on census, land, and military records as being born in the late 1700s in South Carolina; and in the early 1800s, moving from county to county in Georgia shortly after those counties were formed from land ceded by the Creek Nation, and then finally moving into a county in Georgia that was formed after the Cherokees were forcibly removed, the records do not show your ancestor was Cherokee, but instead, a free white person who only moved onto Cherokee land AFTER the Cherokees left it. To ignore such sources, while clinging to a rejected Eastern Cherokee application and speculating on what might or might not have happened, means one is carelessly and haphazardly attempting to rewrite their family history. To publish or distribute their conclusions and call it genealogy is irresponsible.

Anyone can make a mistake in genealogy. Even the best of the best have probably made them. I don't fault anyone for making a mistake, but I do take issue with those who would ignore all the good, hard evidence, and instead, invent a genealogy they want. If you want to do your family genealogy, then do it. But do it based on real documentation and hard evidence. Wouldn't it be embarrassing if you wrote an entire family history that you called a genealogy and then someone else came along behind you and proved everything you wrote was wrong using many primary sources while you used none?

Word of advice - There are plenty of records out there to either prove or disprove Cherokee ancestry. Use them. Not my standards, but instead, the standards of the genealogical community. If you want to write fiction, then do it, but at least call it fiction. If you want to do your genealogy, then do that too, but don't guess, assume or invent anything. "Test every hypothesis or theory against credible evidence, and reject those that are not supported by the evidence." Basically -- either go hard (evidence) or go home (don't bother.)

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Thriller Thursday - "Whiskey - Pistol - Death"

2011-11-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

The following article appeared in The Cherokee Advocate; Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory; Friday, May 23, 1884; p.2. Wow! David Tadpole was my 3X great grandpa. Though apparently badly wounded, he did survive and lived another 16-17 years. An interesting note though, he had a stepson named Groundhog. Was he shot by his own stepson? It might take some digging, but I am going to try to find out. To make matters even more interesting is the fact John Moore is connected to me through another of my Cherokee lines. He was married to my 4X great grandma's sister.

Stay tuned for some interesting follow ups and for the trial of Groundhog, the man who killed John Moore and shot my great great great grandpa!

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Great Story with Awesome Research! Worth a Read!

2011-11-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

While reading some other blogs today, I found a great story I think everyone who reads and enjoys this blog should read. Not only does it have the great term "value added history" in it, it also explains how oral stories and legends can be far from the truth when it comes to Cherokees and their history. It also shows how much information is actually available, even on the Cherokees before removal. People rarely believe me when I say there are oodles of records on the Cherokees but I think you will see in the story, it's true. An awful lot of info is out there. You just have to know where to look. So, please take a moment to go read "Chief Soap":Fact vs. Fiction at The Trail of the Trail. I promise you, this is worth a read!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

News Article about My Grandpa, Aaron Carey, and His Service

2011-11-11T07:26:00.000-08:00

In honor of Veteran's Day, I am sharing a news article about my grandpa, Aaron Carey, and his service to our country. The one thing that was important to him was that people never forget the sacrifice our soldiers make so that we can be free.

(Click on the article to enlarge.)

(Source - The Wagoner Tribune; Wagoner, Oklahoma; December 2, 1999; p. 5A, 13A.)

Thank you to all the Veterans who have served to keep our country free. Your sacrifices are not forgotten.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

Top 5 - Worst "Cherokee" Songs

2011-11-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

5. Indian Reservation - Paul Revere and the Raiders

Reason - Historically inaccurate. The Cherokees never lived on a reservation. They lived in Cherokee Nation, a nation unto itself. Also, I am not fond of the line, "But maybe some day when they've learned, the Cherokee Nation will return." Return to what? We haven't gone anywhere.

4. Indian Outlaw - Tim McGraw

Reason - Stereotypical. Maybe Tim lives in wig wams or teepees, but the Cherokees never did. And, the last I heard of a Cherokee medicine man dragging someone around by their headband? Well, er, uh, never. The song is so full of stereotypes, it makes me wonder...is Tim getting even with the Cherokees for killing his ancestor, Isaac Chrisman?

3. Halfbreed - Cher

Reason - Oh my gourd! Where do I even start? First of all, Cher isn't Cherokee, but this song makes people think she is. And then "My life instead has been from man to man, but I can't run away from what I am. Halfbreed!" Ok, little lady. If your life has been from man to man, it isn't because you are mixed blood Cherokee! It's because you need to go put some dang clothes on! Now excuse me while I go change into my bejeweled bone halter top and stripper thong loin cloth and top it off with my floor length war bonnet! (wink)

2. Cherokee - Europe

Reason - It's just gross! Honestly, this video is just disgusting and gross. Spaghetti western images, a woman with paint on her face, and southwestern terrain. Hmmm..........nope, nothing Cherokee about any of that. And, the line, "Cherokee, marching on the trail of tears......." over and over. Ugh..........

1. Cherokee Morning Song - Walela

Reason - Walela aren't Cherokee, nor is the song in Cherokee. This is just pure theft of culture and identity. Sorry to those of you who purchased their music believing this is real Cherokee music by real Cherokee women, but you got ripped off. Neither is true, yet because they misrepresent themselves and their music as such, they get my vote for the worst of the worst.

Ok, so you have it. My top five choices for worst song to mention Cherokee either in the title or words of the song. Now it is your turn to vote! Click below to vote for one of the songs above for the worst of the worst. I will run the poll for thirty days and then post the winner for our Readers Choice Award! Also feel free to leave a comment below telling me why you agree, disagree or if you think other songs should be added to the list and why.

Update - The poll has closed, but it was a very close race that ended up in a tie between Indian Outlaw (Tim McGraw) and Cherokee Morning Song (Walela) "winning" as worst song, each getting 30% of the vote. Coming in a close second was Halfbreed (Cher) with 27% of the vote.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

From My Inbox

2011-11-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

This is an excerpt from a message that arrived in my inbox yesterday.

"I enjoy and learn from your blog and respect your high standards for genealogy research. However, I have not enjoyed your forays into the unpleasant Cherokee election and beating up on the misguided person who wants James Keith to be Crane Eater."

I think we have a few important points made here. The first, and most important, falls in the area of my audience. I primarily write for the Cherokee people. Though the election was a nightmare and dragged out entirely too long, it was something the Cherokee people were extremely interested in reading about. They wanted to know what was going on each step of the way. There was a lot of confusion and people needed information. To my non-Cherokee readers, thank you for bearing with us during the difficult and stressful time and allowing me to use the blog as a place to share that needed information.

Another important point made is about the "misguided person who wants James Keith to be Crane Eater." Not only does that show everyone except this "misguided" person understands that James Keith is NOT Crane Eater, it also shows how tired one can grow of wannabeism and how serious of an issue it truly is.

Yes, we all know James Keith was not Crane Eater. WE ALL KNOW THIS! But guess what? The descendant of this man refuses to accept it. I see it. You see it. We ALL see it. Unfortunately, she refuses to accept it. This situation has been a text book example of what a wannabe is and how they behave when we, Cherokees, refuse to allow them to steal our identity and attempt to re-write our history. Not only do they continue to cling to their fabricated family history, they try to discredit us and do everything in their power to make us look like the bad guy in the situation. It is rare that such an opportunity would arise where I can show my non-Cherokee readers what we Cherokees go through every single day. Yes! Every single day, there is someone, somewhere who will tell us they are Cherokee, just like us. The magnitude of this culture and identity theft is enormous and it is never ending.

Because it is never ending, I think it is important to capitalize on this opportunity with Crane Eater to show how a fake can become so obsessed with being Cherokee (and in this case, proving Cherokees wrong) that they refuse to see the truth, no matter who shows it to them and no matter how many different ways it is shown to them. When readers start to email me that they are growing tired of it, then I know I have accomplished my goal -- to show non-Cherokees how tiresome this wannabe thing gets for us. Can you now see how a "misguided" person won't give up the claim of being Cherokee, even when they aren't? Can you see how they lie and attack and try to discredit us? This is EXACTLY what wannabes do when they are not allowed to continue with their fake claims. This is EXACTLY what wannabes do when REAL Cherokees say, "No more."

This blogger has tried to discredit me, my friends and anyone else that speaks out against her claims. Sad, but typical wannabe behavior. This blogger has numerous comments on her blog that support her and post nasty things about me and other Cherokees, but most are made by "anonymous." To be honest, most of us believe she is leaving comments for herself, since anyone with any real knowledge of genealogy would not support what she what she writes in her blog. I mean, think about it. An anonymous comment means nothing. Unless a person is willing to sign their real name to it, there is no substance to it. Just one of the reasons I have stopped allowing anonymous comments on this blog. If you have something to say, say it, but at least have the backbone to also sign your name to it.

So yes, dear readers, I understand people are sick of reading, hearing, learning about Crane Eater. I get it. I really do. But it is important to see, to understand, this problem the Cherokee people have with fakes who desperately want to be one of us. Even when there is no real proof, they will often create something to show what they want. It is absurd. Our history is our history and no one has the right to try to re-write it just so they can be a part of it. Either you are or you aren't. It is that simple. Yes, this misguided person wants her ancestor, James Keith, to be the Cherokee man, Crane Eater, but he isn't. I see it. You see it. Everyone sees it, except her. Do you think she will ever accept the truth? Hard to say. I guess it will come down to the difference between a person searching for their true history and a wannabe. Does she want to know the truth, no matter what it is, or does she wannabe a Cherokee? You tell me.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Interview with Cynthia Thompson, Owner of Native Findings

2011-10-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Native Findings is a website devoted to the marketing and sales of authentic Indian Arts and Crafts. Cynthia Thompson, owner of Native Findings, was kind enough to spend a little time and to share with us some information about herself, her new website and what prompted the idea to start such a site.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a Keetoowah/Cherokee who lives in Oklahoma and who has three wonderful children. I graduated from ITT Technical college with an overall 3.92 grade point average with an associates degree in drafting and design.

Are you an artist or craftsman and if so, what type of crafts/art do you create?

I have always liked to draw. When I started using a computer drawing software program, that is when I could really get creative, because of that great undo button. I currently have not had time to do much due to working on the website, but I could sit at the computer and draw all day if I had the time.

What inspires you?

Native Pride! I love being Native! It is the most wonderful feeling.

Why did you decide to get into business for yourself?

I believe that almost everyone has a dream to run their own business and I am one of them.

Why did you choose to start this type of business?

As mentioned before, I like to draw. I decided to start a t-shirt company and sell my artwork through shirts. I was searching on facebook and other places on the internet and I could not find a place where I could sell my shirts and get noticed from Natives or those who like Native art work.

I chose this business because I saw the need for artists and buyers to have a website where they know they are getting authentic native made products.

What is the Indian Arts and Crafts Act and why do you think it is important?

It is a truth-in-advertising law that prohibits misrepresentation in marketing of Indian arts and crafts products within the United States. It is illegal to offer or display for sale, or sell any art or craft product in a manner that falsely suggests it is Indian produced, an Indian product, or the product of a particular Indian or Indian tribe or Indian arts and crafts organization, resident within the United States. For a first time violation of the Act, an individual can face civil or criminal penalties up to a $250,000 fine or a 5-year prison term, or both. If a business violates the Act, it can face civil penalties or can be prosecuted and fined up to $1,000,000.

The Indian Arts and Crafts Act is important because there are too many knock-offs out there and people try to pass the art or product off as Native American or First Nations art. This hurts our Native peoples who sell their arts and/or crafts because this is their business, their lifestyle, and most importantly their heritage.

This act protects Natives and it protects consumers, but I feel like there is more that can be done. I hope that they can get some kind of database going for Natives to register as an artist.

Who do you consider two of your closest competitors?

I would have to say that Etsy and Cargoh. Our website is a marketplace where people can open a shop and sell their art/crafts through one store front.

Why are you different than those competitors?

My website is different because it focuses on the Arts and Crafts Act. Before I decided to make this website I looked all over the web to find a marketplace for Native arts and crafts and I found many, many websites that carried authentic arts and crafts, but also sold stuff from Non-Natives. You would have to go through the item page and look closely to find out if it was made by a Native or not. My website is only for Native art/crafts. Along with our seller shops we do offer supplier shops for those who sell supplies for Native crafts, but a supplier shop will have nothing stating authentic.

How long did it take to get the site designed and up and running?

The idea came to me in December of 2010 and I started right away gathering information on how to get this done. We officially launched our website September 26, 2011. This is a custom designed website and we are soon to be working on new features.

Our current features are:

Personal shops, personal blogs, personal profile, friend request, internal messaging system, onsite facebook like chat, chat rooms, you can have: favorite sellers, items, and blogs.

Future features:
We know what they are and we think you will like them. Wait and see and please signup to become a member off our site.

Are there any ethical concerns that arise in running your business?

Yes, my concern is that someone will sell something claiming it to be authentic. The way I have this setup is that anyone can open a seller shop and sell authentic Indian made arts/crafts. This can be an artifact, artwork from a famous artist who has since passed, a family or friends art work, because they might not have internet or like being on a computer.

This is where the community comes in. We have so many Native activist who know their Native Community. If they are leery of a certain someone they will report them and I will go through steps to check their authenticity. I will also participate with law enforcement in providing any information needed, if an item is reported to the Indian Arts and Crafts board website.

Please know that my website is all about the Indian arts and crafts act and all things Native. I hope to see you there.

I have visited Native Findings and was highly impressed. The site is not only pleasing to the eye, it is easy to navigate and has some awesome items for sale there. It you are looking for an online site where you can sell your authentic Indian made arts and crafts, check it out. Or if you are looking for a place to buy authentic Indian made arts and crafts, then this is a must see website for you. So stop by and visit Native Findings--you never know what you might find! :)

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

Back to Business!

2011-10-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

Whew! Now that the election for Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation is over, it is time to get back to the business of researching and writing about our history and genealogy. Though it seems as if we put those topics on the back burner, I assure you, research has been taking place, even though I have not written about it. Lots and lots of things to come soon. I will finally be able to start sharing what I have found under the topic of "Fortune Hunters, the Guion Miller Roll and the Birth of the Wannabe," as well as an extensive amount of information complied by a team of researchers on the James Keith family that shows, without a doubt, he was not the Cherokee man named Crane Eater. I was also able to get an interview with Cynthia Thompson, the owner of the new website, Native Findings, and additionally have started a new facebook page, Save Our Historic Cherokee Sites. Stay tuned. Lots of exciting information to come soon!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Principal Chief Bill John Baker Swearing in Ceremony

2011-10-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

*A special thank you to my friend, "Cherokee Orphanchild" for allowing me to use her photos from this historic event.*

It's Over! We Do Have a New Chief! Baker Sworn in Tonight!

2011-10-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Cherokee Nation has dismissed Chad Smith's appeal and Bill John Baker was sworn in as chief of the Cherokee Nation tonight. It has been a long road, but it is finally over! We have a new chief!

Congratulations Bill John Baker!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Will Smith Ever Concede?

2011-10-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

I just read the following press release on the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians facebook page -

"The Carter Center observed the ballots being cast and counted, and saw that the election commission did a good job following the ever-changing election rules.? But the acting chief, on his own, changed the election rules both before and after election day in violation of tribal law and allowed a group of non-citizens vote.? The Carter Center ignored the elephant in the room - an election held in violation of aSupreme Court decision.? And that's what concerns the Cherokee people."---Chief Chad Smith

Will Chad Smith ever accept he lost the election and concede to Bill John Baker? Will he ever stop signing things as "Chief"? Will the Cherokee people ever be able to move beyond this election? Who knows. But if Chad Smith cared about the Cherokee people, he would concede and let the nation heal. The people are mentally exhausted from all this.

Please, Chad Smith, if you really care about us, accept defeat, congratulate your opponent and bow out gracefully. The Cherokee people deserve that.

Those are my thoughts for today.

Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

It's Official! Bill John Baker has Been Elected Chief of the Cherokee Nation!

2011-10-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

Per the Tahlequah Daily Press -

The Cherokee Nation Election Commission has certified the special election results, showing Bill John Baker as the winner.

Congratulations Chief Elect Baker!

Statements from the Candidates for Principal Chief

2011-10-11T17:30:00.000-07:00

Statement from Bill John Baker

The Cherokee people have spoken and I am humbled and honored to be selected to lead our great nation the next four years. This has been a difficult and tough campaign for everyone but the campaign is behind us. The sharp words and differences ended the second the last ballot was counted. I want to congratulate Chief Smith and his team on a hard fought effort. And now I ask them and all of Chief Smith's supporters to join me to bring our Nation together.

I've said the entire campaign that we all came from one fire. We are family. Being Cherokee is who you are, not where you are. From Tampa to Tahlequah and San Francisco to Sallisaw we are one Cherokee Nation.

Only together can we take our Nation from good to Great. There is no time to fight each other when we must fight poverty, fight hunger, fight for better schools, fight for our elders. There is plenty to do and taking on each other even for one more minute is not something we can afford to continue.

There will be many announcements over the next few weeks. I plan to build a world-class team of leaders to help run our Nation and we will begin putting together that team immediately. I need your suggestions and I need your help and I ask for your prayers.

Again, I am humbled and honored and I promise you - each and every one of you - that I will be the best Chief possible every minute of every day.

Wado

God Bless you

God Bless the Cherokee Nation

********

Statement from Chad Smith

I’m disappointed not just for myself, but also for the people who worked so hard on this campaign, and the thousands upon thousands of Cherokees who supported this campaign and what we stand for. The Cherokee Nation faces a lot of difficult decisions in the near future, and I will always support the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation.

We will still await the word from the election commission on a certified count, and we’re aware of all the irregularities that came about because our government agreed to change the election rules even after election day. We will know more once things settle out.

I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the Cherokee people and to our staff who worked so hard to build the Cherokee Nation from the chaos when I took office in 1999. I have worked hard these many years and am grateful for each day I represented our Nation so far.

Breaking News! Cherokee Nation Election Results - Baker Wins!

2011-10-11T15:27:00.001-07:00

Update - Just in from Election Commission - Unofficial Count
Bill John Baker - 10703
Chad Smith - 9128.
All votes counted. Bill John Baker Chief Elect of Cherokee Nation.

***********

"From the Tahlequah Daily Press facebook page - 10/11/2011

URGENT... UNOFFICIAL CHEROKEE CHIEF RESULTS: Bill John Baker wins, 10,633, to Chad Smith's 9,099. That's 53.89 percent, to 46.11 percent. This does not include approximately 150 challenged ballots, which will be tallied later today."

Read here.

Urgent Cherokee Nation Update!!!! Baker Wins - Unoffical Count

2011-10-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

From the Tahlequah Daily Press facebook page

10/11/2011

URGENT... UNOFFICIAL CHEROKEE CHIEF RESULTS: Bill John Baker wins, 10,633, to Chad Smith's 9,099. That's 53.89 percent, to 46.11 percent. This does not include approximately 150 challenged ballots, which will be tallied later today.

"CHEROKEE UPDATE: AG Diane Hammons says the ruling on the Freedmen will NOT affect the outcome of the election: "Our Cherokee Supreme Court ... cannot set aside a federal court order. The orders ... temporarily gave the Freedmen their citizenship rights back. ... The Election Commission is proceeding with counting absentee ballots... until a certified result is reached. ... [We in] the Cherokee Nation... pride ourselves on being true to [our] laws. Chief Crittenden and I agreed to the temporary order because it was far less intrusive ... to our tribal government than what the plaintiffs had sought. We faced the potential loss of federal funding, interference with our governmental relationship with the U.S., and the prospect of not having a determinative election for our chief. ... The temporary order merely restored the disenrolled Freedmen to the status quo they had enjoyed at the time of the original election in June. We had first asked our own Court to reconsider its original decision and restore the status quo, so the issue could be settled under tribal law, as it should be, but the court declined to act."

"URGENT CHEROKEE UPDATE: The Cherokee Nation Supreme Court just issued an order saying the agreement between the tribe and the plaintiffs in the federal court case – namely the Freedmen – is in direct violation of the CN Constitution. In other words, the CN Supreme Court will NOT recognize the Freedmen. If the Freedmen votes are counted today, they will be in direct violation of the Supreme Court order. No word yet from the Election Commission on how this will be handled. Teddye Snell is still on the scene. ~Kim"

The Continuing Cherokee Nation Election

2011-10-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

According to the Tahlequah Daily Press facebook page,

"CHEROKEE UPDATE: Absentee ballots for the chief's election have been sorted, removed from the envelopes. Machine counting will begin today after lunch. Officials say it should take no more than two hours. Teddye Snell is on the scene at the Election Commission, and we'll have more information for you as it's made available to us."

Why Abolish Columbus Day?

2011-10-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Honoring a man who is responsible for such genocide and crimes against humanity would be like honoring Hitler. Abolish Columbus Day in the United States. Celebrate who we, as the indigenous people of the Americas, are instead.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Baker Leading After Count of Walk In and Precinct Voting

2011-10-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

The Cherokee Nation election commission has released the vote totals from the walk in and precinct voting (which links are posted to in my earlier blog post today.) Bill John Baker is leading Chad Smith at this point in time, but we are still waiting to learn the vote totals from the absentee votes, which includes many At Large voters who in the past have overwhelmingly supported Chad Smith.

Here are what the numbers look like now -

District 1 Smith - 796 (29%), Baker 1957 (71%)
District 2 Smith - 788 (31%), Baker 1769 (69%)
District 3 Smith - 1016 (54%), Baker 865 (46%)
District 4 Smith - 675 (42%), Baker 925 (58%)
District 5 Smith - 703 (55%), Baker 583 (45%)
Walk in Vote Smith - 68 (35%), Baker 124 (65%)
Totals Smith - 4046, Baker 6223

Compare these numbers to the first go round that was thrown out -

District 1 Smith - 1128 (33%), Baker 2303 (67%)
District 2 Smith - 1116 (37%), Baker 1912 (63%)
District 3 Smith - 1240 (64%), Baker 711 (36%)
District 4 Smith - 943 (52%), Baker 885 (48%)
District 5 Smith - 1126 (65%), Baker 616 (35%)

Percentages show Smith has lost ground with the walk in voters who tend to be those who live inside the service area of the Cherokee Nation. In District 1, his percentage dropped by 4. In District 2, it dropped by 6 and in Districts 3, 4 and 5, it dropped by 10.

Now to wait for the tally of the At Large/absentee ballots. Was Bill John Baker able to swing more voters his way with that group, or will Chad carry it by a large number again? Your guess is as good as mine. I guess we will know in a day or two. I will keep you posted as I get more information. Sit tight everyone. It is finally almost over.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

More reading HERE

September 24th Cherokee Nation Election Results Thus Far

2011-10-09T15:43:00.000-07:00

Unofficial Precinct and Walk-In Results (By District/By Precinct)

 
      No Absentee Ballots or Challenged Ballots Have Been Counted
               
                Unofficial Results from Precinct Voting and Walk-in Voting

               Unofficial Results for District 1 - By Precinct 
                Unofficial Results for District 2 - By Precinct
                Unofficial Results for District 3 - By Precinct
                Unofficial Results for District 4 - By Precinct
                Unofficial Results for District 5 - By Precinct
                Unofficial Results for At-Large Walk-in

Cherokee Nation Election September 24-October 8 - In Person Voting Numbers

2011-10-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

From the Tahlequah Daily Press facebook page,

"CHEROKEE UPDATE: Slight correction in the tally from a few moments ago. Smith's total remains the same, 4,046; Baker's is 6,223. (The numbers we reported a bit ago were corrected by EC officials shortly after the original count was reported.) Also, this count is from ALL in-person voting, both at precincts and at the Election Commission office. There were 12,000 requests for absentee ballots. (In June, 75 percent of the approximate 8,000 absentee ballots were returned, so obviously, this tally will take some time.) Percentiles for now: Baker, 60.6 percent; Smith, 39.4 percent. We do not expect another update today. ~"

As mentioned above, there are quite a large number of absentee ballots yet to be counted, so please refrain from believing this is the final count. It is not. Lots more votes to be counted in the next day or two.

Break down of In Person voting by precinct voting (numbers provided by Dani Saloli-Mackey on the Bill John Baker for Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation facebook page)

Precinct & Walk-In Votes Sept/Oct 2011

Warner
Chad Smith - 122
Bill John Baker - 91

Vinita
Chad Smith - 95
Bill John Baker - 175

Westville
Chad Smith - 99
Bill John Baker - 208

Briggs
Chad Smith -36
Bill John Baker - 121

Bartlesville
Chad Smith - 128
Bill John Baker - 123

Welch
Chad Smith - 0
Bill John Baker - 1

Marble City
Chad Smith - 41
Bill John Baker - 56

Chelsea
Chad Smith - 70
Bill John Baker - 54

Stilwell
Chad Smith - 239
Bill John Baker - 628

Keys
Chad Smith - 56
Bill John Baker - 159 (could be 155)

Grove
Chad Smith - 71
Bill John Baker - 83

Collinsville
Chad Smith - 118
Bill John Baker - 64

Oolagah
Chad Smith - 23
Bill John Baker - 10

Tulsa
Chad Smith - 98
Bill John Baker - 102

Belfonte
Chad Smith - 16
Bill John Baker - 8

Pryor
Chad Smith - 146
Bill John Baker - 147

Vian
Chad Smith - 132
Bill John Baker - 123

Claremore
Chad Smith - 367
Bill John Baker - 327

Hulbert
Chad Smith - 51
Bill John Baker - 233

Cave Springs
Chad Smith - 34
Bill John Baker - 61

Sallisaw
Chad Smith - 215
Bill John Baker - 167

Nowata
Chad Smith - 67
Bill John Baker - 60

Okay
Chad Smith - 36
Bill John Baker - 32

Muldrow
Chad Smith - 183
Bill John Baker - 181

Chewey
Chad Smith - 1
Bill John Baker - 19

Spavinaw
Chad Smith - 3
Bill John Baker - 3

Muskogee
Chad Smith - 21
Bill John Baker - 7

Kansas
Chad Smith - 85
Bill John Baker - 259

Jay
Chad Smith - 116
Bill John Baker - 261

Kenwood
Chad Smith - 21
Bill John Baker - 61

Locust Grove
Chad Smith - 93
Bill John Baker - 232

Salina
Chad Smith - 79
Bill John Baker - 127

Lowery
Chad Smith - 16
Bill John Baker - 98

Bell
Chad Smith - 20
Bill John Baker - 29

Tahlequah
Chad Smith - 292
Bill John Baker - 650

Afton
Chad Smith - 30
Bill John Baker - 13

Cherokee Election - Ballot Counting to Begin Today

2011-10-09T05:28:00.000-07:00

Ballot counting is to begin at 8am this morning, after waiting more than 2 weeks since the main election day for the special election for Principal Chief. The counting will not occur in one day and the final results still will not be known for several more days. More information on the count can be found HERE.

I will post updates from the election as they become available.

Notice: Freedmen Descendants Protest

2011-10-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

NOTICE: Freedmen descendants will hold a protest demonstration on Friday, Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. outside the BIA offices in Muskogee, OK. They are protesting inaction by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to enforce the Treaty of 1866 and allowing the Five Civilized Tribes to discriminate against their black citizens. All freedmen descendants and supporters are encouraged to attend.

Federal Freedmen Descendants' Case Dismissed

2011-09-30T22:44:00.000-07:00

Judge Kennedy, US District Judge, dismissed the Vann case yesterday. Chad Smith and camp are celebrating and claiming Chief Joe Crittenden gave in to demands he didn't have to accept. They are accusing him of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. My thought is their celebration may be premature. I think we would all be wise to wait and see how this plays out before we either cheer in the celebration of victory or weep in the agony of defeat.

You can read the ruling HERE.

And more HERE.

Those are my thoughts for today. Thanks for reading. CC The Granddaughter

New Site to Sell Indian Arts and Crafts - Native Findings

2011-09-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

If you know any Native artists or you're interested in Indian art check out the new community, Native Findings, owned by Cherokee citizen, Cynthia Thompson. It just launched today. This site follows the Indian Arts and Crafts Act and only authentic Indian made or First Nations made arts and crafts will be sold.

If you are a Native artist who sells online or are a consumer who wishes to purchase authentic Indian/Native made items, please visit Cynthia's site. Hopefully soon, we will catch Cynthia and get an interview with her so we can learn more about her awesome new website!

Cherokees Can Continue to Vote Until October 8th Too

2011-09-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

The order just came down that Cherokees by blood as well as Freedmen Descendants, can vote until Oct. 8th.

Walk-in at the Election Commission Office in Tahlequah only, Thursday, Sept 29th; Saturday, October 1; Tuesday, October 4th; Thursday, October 6th; and Saturday, October 8th.

You must have been registered to vote in tribal elections before the March 31 deadline in order to vote in this election.

per Sherry Jean Robertson-Baker on facebook

September 24 Cherokee Nation Election Results Coming Soon

2011-09-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Results from the September 24th Cherokee Nation election will not be available and certified until approximately October 10th. The freedmen descendants have two additional walk in days to cast votes and absentee ballots from them must be received by October 8th. The election commission has two days to certify the results of the election, so that means we probably won't know the official results until the 10th of October.

I will post any information that becomes available before then and keep everyone up to date on what is going on concerning our election.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Cherokee Nation Election Today

2011-09-24T02:06:00.000-07:00

This is an extremely crucial time in our nation. Though it is always important to vote, now it is of the utmost importance that people get out and let their voices be heard through their vote. Our nation is on the verge of a crisis. Chad Smith has led the nation for twelve years and now we are on the verge of utter destruction. Until now, I have not endorsed a candidate for principal chief, but after the events of the last few weeks, I think it is important for me to say I endorse Bill John Baker.

Vote Bill John Baker for Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation today or there may not be a Cherokee Nation tomorrow.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

FOUND! Last Known Picture of James Keith! (A Little Cherokee Humor!)

2011-09-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

What a great find! This is the last known picture of James Keith, a common genealogical topic in this blog.

Thought I would share a little Cherokee humor for the day. Love it! Don't you? Of course, only Cherokees will think it is funny, but oh well.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Latest on the Freedmen Descendants and the Election

2011-09-14T19:06:00.000-07:00

Please click the links for the latest information -

Statement from Acting Principal Chief Joe Crittenden

Statement from Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma Election Commission

Statement made by the Cherokee Freedmen Descendants at the CNO EC Special Meeting

"Freedmen, Be Prepared to Vote" says Marilyn Vann

2011-09-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

"Freedmen, be prepared to vote," was the message posted by Marilyn Vann, on the facebook group wall, Cherokee Freedmen Descendants. According to Ms. Vann, the election commission is having an emergency meeting tonight with the agenda item being procedures allowing the freedmen descendants to vote.

This information followed closely behind the release today of the following court filed document.

Additional information or details will be posted as I learn them.

Chief Crittenden - "The Cherokee Nation will not be governed by the BIA."

2011-09-13T21:07:00.000-07:00

A message from acting Principal Chief Joe Crittenden in response to the letter the Cherokee Nation received from the BIA yesterday can be found here.

In the message, he says,

“The Cherokee Nation will not be governed by the BIA. We will hold our election and continue our long legacy of responsible self-governance.’’

Does this mean the descendants of the freedmen will vote? I don't know, but it seems as if Chief Crittenden is saying the election will go on.

Stay tuned. Updates will be posted as I become aware of them.

copyright 2011, Polly's Granddaughter - TCB

Ethics in Genealogy

2011-09-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

I read an interesting article on the internet yesterday. It was written by Barbara A. Brown and was titled, "Restoring Ethics to Genealogy." In light of all the things I have seen written or posted on the internet concerning Cherokee genealogy, I thought it was important to discuss this topic.

The fact is, a lot of people have heard they have Cherokee ancestry. Another fact is, it is numerically impossible for everyone who has heard this "Cherokee Blood Myth" to actually descend from a Cherokee. And yet one other fact is there is a lot of really bad "Cherokee genealogy" posted on the internet. Assumption, speculation and invention are three things that don't belong in genealogy, but we see it a lot when discussing Cherokees and their genealogy. People who have no clue about Cherokee history try to pass off stories that are in direct contrast to Cherokee history. People who have no understanding of Cherokee culture try to pass off stories that go against true Cherokee culture. And people who have no understanding of the language try to pass off their translations or interpretations of Cherokee names as true and accurate when in reality, they are so far off base it is almost laughable.

Some of these Cherokee family trees or claims posted on the internet can become quite elaborate. There are people who claim to have connections to so many Cherokee families that it is absurd. While true that many real Cherokee families connect to many other Cherokee families, this is usually the case when the Cherokee ancestors remained with the tribe and are found in some of the later documentation, like the Dawes and Miller Rolls. If you find a family tree or someone who is claiming their ancestors left the nation at the time of removal or prior to the removal and they are claiming many, many Cherokee families as cousins, including some who are still considered full blood today, be wary. Maybe it is true, but demand they provide documentation that supports their claims. Don't accept a "this well known researcher on Cherokees said....." or "this well known Cherokee genealogist said..........." or "this noted archeologist said......" because that is not good enough in genealogy. Any of those types of people will provide sources for what they say if they said it and stand by their conclusions, whether it is David Cornsilk, Gene Norris or Dr. John Worth.

So, in your search for Cherokee ancestors, research away, but be cautious about believing everything you read or find. Some people are just better at genealogy than others and some people care more about truth and accuracy than others do. Don't be misled by those who do sloppy work or who have no respect for the field of genealogy.

"To be a Responsible Genealogist is to be honorable, fair, and truthful, to show respect for your ancestors by presenting a true and complete picture of their existence, to be fair to your fellow genealogists by acknowledging their contributions to your research, and to be relentless in your pursuit of factual data and in the search for the truth." Barbara A. Brown, International Internet Genealogical Society member

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

The BIA Speaks! Letter to Chief about the Freedmen Descendants!

2011-09-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

Freedmen Descendants Disenfranchised Once Again

2011-09-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

As most of you have probably heard by now, Cherokee Nation HUD funds have been frozen over the decision to remove the freedmen descendants from the tribe. The freedmen descendants have also started getting their dis-enrollment letters.

I want people to see this letter because I think it will make it more real to them. I think for some people, it is easier to bury their head in the sand and not really pay attention to this. If we would quit doing things like this, we wouldn't have these issues. Some things, we can't ignore. We have to stop them. I don't care about funding. The Cherokee Nation survived before US funding and they will survive if they lose it all, but I do care about what is right and disenfranchising people is wrong, especially when it is based on the color of one's skin. You would think one minority would not do that to another, but the problem is, most of the Cherokee Nation is not a "minority." They are mostly white. (If you are less than 1/2 Indian blood, then you are mostly something other than Indian racially. Fact, not a racist opinion.) I guess they forget, back when I was born, one had to be 1/2 or more to be a Cherokee. I imagine most of those that voted for this amendment wouldn't like it if the nation voted a 1/2 or a 4/4 BQ in, would they? They would say it wasn't fair and it was based on race rather than a proven connection to the tribe or the Dawes Roll. Well, if we start disenfranchising Cherokees now, what makes anyone think it will ever stop? Who will be next? Will it be those with less than 1/64 Indian blood? Or maybe those with less than 1/16th? Or maybe even those with less than 1/4th? Who knows, but it's something to think about .

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Election

2011-09-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

What A Privilege! Sneak Peek at Private Collection!

2011-09-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago, I had the privilege of viewing a couple of pages from some ledgers that are part of a private family collection. The representative I spoke with about them found my family listed and said it is a huge find because their names were listed in the original members of the Keetoowah Church. Below, you find the name of my ancestor this blog is named after. It is from a page dated 1906.

These ledgers belonged to a full blood Cherokee man who was secretary of the Nighthawks when Redbird Smith was leading them. Undoubtedly, these ledgers, for Cherokee treasures and historical information, will rank in the same category as the work by Emmit Starr, but are probably more valuable because not only do they contain some family groups, in some sections, they list people by name in Cherokee and English along with age. It is important to note that not all Cherokee families will be found in the ledgers. Since these are records of the Keetoowah Society, only those who had association with them will be found.

These ledgers are not for public viewing at this time and I don't know if they will ever be. I believe there is a plan in the works for them to tour the three federally recognized Cherokee governments and some highly respected U.S. national museums, but I am pretty sure they will not be available for research purposes to the average person because their value is so great, there is no way to put a price on them. Maybe some day, parts of them will be available by transcription, but who knows for sure. All I know is I feel extremely privileged to have been allowed a glimpse of these Cherokee treasures. Thank you, my friend!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

**Note - Out of respect for privacy of the person and family who shared information with me about these ledgers and also allowed me to see a little of them, I am not publishing their name. I would like to remind everyone, these are part of a PRIVATE collection, so we must be respectful of that.**

How to Spot Wannabe Indians by Simon Moya-Smith

2011-08-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

Though some people think I am the only person who has a problem with wannabes and fake Indians, I'm not. This man isn't Cherokee, but he mentions Cherokee wannabes, because even other Indians hear this Cherokee Myth Phenomenon all the time. It is very much worth a listen, but I will give a warning for language. But, sometimes a person has to tell it like it is and frankly, hearing this Cherokee blood claim over and over and over does tend to make a person want to cuss.

Anyway, give this a listen and also, check out Simon's blog, I Am Not a Mascot.

How To Spot Wannabe Indians by Simon Moya-Smith

New Domain! We Are in Transition!

2011-08-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed, we are in a transition period while switching from one domain to another. Our new domain is http://www.pollysgranddaughter.com. In a few days, everything should be found there, but until then, we can still be found at pollysgranddaughter.blogspot.com. If things look a little off or if things change a little over the next few days, don't freak out. It will all be ironed out as the transition takes place.

Thanks for reading,

The Granddaughter

Let Crane Eater Rest In Peace

2011-08-26T02:05:00.000-07:00

"I'm amazed that this is still going on. Why would anyone care about someone else's family to this degree?"

That is a question left in a comment on another blog where the blogger seems more interested in proving me wrong than in proving her real family history. Apparently what the blog commenter fails to realize is I don't care about someone else's family. I really don't. The person I care about is a Cherokee named Crane Eater.

I know, I know, the blogger insists her ancestor, James Keith, and the Cherokee man named Crane Eater are the same man. But guess what. She is wrong.

In her blog post, "Thriller Thursday: More Coincidence? Nahhhhhhh," she says,

She is talking about a claim the Cherokee man, Crane Eater, made in 1842, for loss of property that occurred when the soldiers rounded up the Cherokees and forced their removal from Georgia. Was Crane Eater alive in 1842? Yes. That is obvious because he filed a claim. But does that mean James Keith didn't die in 1839 as "previously thought"? No.

This is where sources and documentation come in handy. You see, James Keith's widow, Sarah, filed a widow's pension application for his service in the War of 1812. If she was a widow, guess what she would have to list in that application -- the date of death of her husband.

Looky there, boys and girls! Death of soldier - Jan. 29, 1839, Cass Co, Ga. And this isn't the only place in the application that date of death is listed. Every time Sarah reported her husband's, James Keith's, date of death, it was January 29, 1839. So can anyone tell me how a man who died in 1839 is living in Indian Territory and filing a claim in 1842? I think you can see my point. This blogger's claim that James Keith and Crane Eater were the same man cannot be true.The reason James Keith is absent from the US and Georgia state census records is because he was dead. He was not imprisoned. He was not listed on Cherokee rolls in the west. He was DEAD.

I could go on and on with all the contradictions in everything posted by the blogger that supposedly shows these two were the same man, but there is no point. James Keith died in Georgia in 1839 and Crane Eater was alive in Indian Territory in 1842. End of story. End of myth. End of claim.

Like I said, I don't care about someone else's family, but I do care about Crane Eater and his memory. He and his memory belong to the people of the Cherokee Nation. He is one of us and no one should try to lay claim to our people, our ancestors, unless their claim is based in truth. It is unconscionable that people think they have the right to steal one of our ancestors and try to re-write the history of that person to fit the story they want to tell. Our ancestors deserve better than that. They deserve their stories to be told as they were.

Crane Eater was a full blood Cherokee who lived on the Coosawatie River before he was arrested by soldiers and forcibly removed with the rest of the Cherokees. He was a survivor of the horrific Trail of Tears and his memory should be honored with truth, not mythology. Now that we know the truth, hopefully we can move on from this nonsense and finally let Crane Eater rest in peace.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Our Condolences to Principal Chief and Family

2011-08-09T23:53:00.000-07:00

The mother of Principal Chief Chad Smith has passed away. From his facebook campaign page, Smith says,

"My brothers and I, along with our family, are privately mourning the loss of my mother, who passed away earlier today. We’re reflecting on the love she gave us, the lessons she taught us, and how she always treated others kindly and with respect. We ask for your thoughts and prayers as I leave political posturing to others and take a time out from being Chief and candidate to instead be a grieving son. Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers during this very private, family time."

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family as they mourn the loss of their loved one. May God comfort them during this time of sadness.

The Granddaughter

New Feedback and Comments Page!

2011-08-08T04:58:00.000-07:00

I have added a new page to the blog. I get so many positive emails, comments, and testimonials about the blog, I thought I would share some of the things people are saying. I have more to add but there are a few there now. Enjoy reading and if you have a testimonial about what this blog means to you, feel free to send it through my Contact Me button in the sidebar of this blog.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Propaganda in the Cherokee Nation Election

2011-08-04T03:11:00.000-07:00

Propaganda is the art of persuasion - persuading others that your 'side of the story' is correct. ~~~ Be careful what you believe. Research everything yourselves.

Any time there is an election, of any sort, we are bound to hear a little propaganda. The same is true for the current election for principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. I'll admit, I fell for some of it for a while---until I started doing some research on my own and I started talking to some Cherokee people who are not going to vote in the election. I started to feel sick to my stomach. I wondered how I, an educated woman who reads and researches and studies, could be blindly pulled into one side without actually doing my own research and making my own decision. I really have no excuse, but I can, at least, rest assured that I snapped out of it before the new election takes place.

When I tried to share some of the things I had found with my facebook friends who apparently also fell victim to the same propaganda I did, well, it wasn't received very well. Not only was I cussed and sent nasty private messages, I was also unfriended by a few people. Then I became a topic of discussion for a few days in their private groups being called a traitor, a turncoat and all sorts of other things. These people were what I would call extremists and even though what I discovered was true, they would not hear of it. In no way, shape or form would they believe one negative thing about their chosen candidate.

Now don't get me wrong, I also received quite a few private messages supporting me in my quest to share the truth. Some people were happy they had more information and could make a more informed vote. Others said they were my friend no matter what. These were the more open minded people who realize no one is perfect and even though there might be negative with both candidates, we do have to pick one or the other.

Anyway, in my last post to this blog, I said I would be sharing some personal experiences people have had with the two candidates. I have decided it is probably better if I don't. I have been told if I reveal some of the things I have learned, then I could potentially sway the vote in one direction and therefore, I would be hurting the Cherokee elders and the Cherokee poor who desperately need help and no way in hell do I want to do that. Because of this, I will also not be sharing the things I have learned since researching the two candidates on my own.

So, my advice to you -- if you are a voter in the Cherokee Nation who wants to know the truth about either candidate -- is to do your own research and then decide for yourself who you do or don't want to vote for. Talk to the people who have decided not to vote and ask them why. Do whatever you need to do in order to learn about the candidates and how they were before all this election business started. Please don't believe everything you hear. Remember, the purpose of propaganda is to persuade people into believing what one wants them to believe. It is most effective "at those times when we are too lazy to think for ourselves." Do not fall victim to it. Think for yourself.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Problems With Cherokee Elections Nothing New

2011-07-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

While digging through old newspapers for information on past Cherokee elections and political issues, I found this one in the Stilwell Democrat Journal; Stilwell, Oklahoma; June 29, 1995; p. 1. It seems like problems with Cherokee Nation elections have been going on for a long time. It is rather sad that only the names change (sometimes) but the story is pretty much always the same.

Strap On Your Belt! It's Going To Be A Bumpy Ride!

2011-07-30T04:45:00.000-07:00

The new election for principal chief of the Cherokee Nation is set for September 24th. From now until then, if things go like last time, we can expect things to get nasty on both sides. So far we have heard things like "fatally flawed", stuff ballot boxes, and a slew of other terms associated with the first election that was thrown out. We are also hearing things like "Chad is a dictator!" and "Bill John Baker was part of the Byrd/constitutional crisis!" There seems to be no middle ground on this one. Either you are a die hard Chad Smith supporter or you are a die hard Bill John Baker supporter. Fall somewhere in the middle and you run the risk of being called a weak minded bitch who everyone hates; an outlander who has no business voting in the election; or a thin blood, white boy redneck who doesn't know anything about being Indian. Let me tell you, the insults are FLYING!~

Anyway, buckle up because from now till September 24th, this will undoubtedly be a bumpy ride. Not only are the Smith supporters fighting with the Baker supporters, there is also turmoil among the supporters of at least one of the candidates. It seems no one can get along, even the people on the same side. So, keep checking back in for all the upcoming posts about the new election and the goings on among the Cherokees at this critical time.

From now until the election, we plan to post some personal stories people have shared with us about each of the candidates. Sometimes it is hard to know much about a candidate by watching a debate or reading a political flier. I mean, if one is running for election, of course they are going to present themselves in the best possible light. But what about the people they have interacted with in the past? Chad Smith has been chief for a long time and Bill John Baker has been a councilor for a while, so both have been out among the Cherokee people. We will be sharing some of the stories people tell us about how the candidates are when the cameras are not around. I think it will offer some insight into who each of the candidates really are. So stay tuned............lots more coming soon.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Wordless Wednesday - Cherokees Make Their Feelings Known

2011-07-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

These photos are from one of the recent peaceful protests the citizens of the Cherokee Nation have participated in to let their feelings known about recent disputed election for principal chief that was thrown out by the Supreme Court.

**Photos used with permission of Billy Jack. All rights to the photos belong to him. (Thank you for allowing me to use them.)

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS - Cherokee Nation Run Off Election

2011-07-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

These results are not official yet and they are not certified. But according to the Tahlequah Daily Press, Chris Soap has conceded the race for Deputy Chief to Joe Crittenden. They will have statements from both in their print edition tomorrow (Sunday.) According to the United Keetoowah Band Facebook page, the election commission is still counting/checking 80 challenge ballots.

Unofficial Results below.

Per a report on the UKB facebook page (they have been covering this tonight), the election commission just left without certifying the vote. Members of the crowd outside were upset and asked why but received no plausible answer as the commission left under guard. Patsy Eads Morton, election commissioner, said the commission is certifying the vote at 9 in the morning.

Story in the Cherokee Phoenix HERE.

Cherokee Nation Run Off Election Results

2011-07-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

Watch as they come in HERE.

I will post the final results at the end of the counting.

The Granddaughter

Update -Run Off Election - IMPORTANT

2011-07-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Some people have reported they were on the voter's list and did vote in the election for chief but for some reason are not on the voter's list now. If you find yourself in this situation, call the Election Commission.

Their number is - 918-458-5899

Also, you can go ahead and vote and ask them to place your ballot in the challenge ballot box.

Cherokee Nation Voting Precincts

2011-07-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

2011 CHEROKEE NATION VOTING PRECINCTS

DISTRICT 1

TAHLEQUAH
SEQUOYAH HIGH SCHOOL
17091 S. MUSKOGEE AVE
TAHLEQUAH, OK 74464

KEYS
KEYS HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA
26622 S. 540 RD
PARK HILL, OK 74451

HULBERT
TOWN HALL BLDG
111 E. MAIN
HULBERT, OK 74441

BRIGGS
BRIGGS SCHOOL
17210 S. 569 RD
TAHLEQUAH, OK 74464

LOWERY
LOWERY SCHOOL LIBRARY
21132 E. 640 RD
TAHLEQUAH, OK 74464

OKAY
NEW SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER
3701 E. 75TH ST. (MAIN STREET)
OKAY, OK 74446

DISTRICT 2

STILWELL
WILMA P. MANKILLER CLINIC
RT 6, BOX 840
STILWELL, OK 74960

WESTVILLE
WESTVILLE HIGH SCHOOL .
HWY 62 & PARK ST.
WESTVILLE, OK 74965

CAVE SPRINGS
CAVE SPRINGS SCHOOL
OLD HWY 17
BUNCH, OK 74931

BELL
BELL SCHOOL
RT 5, BOX 4470
STILWELL, OK 74960

GROVE
GROVE COMMUNITY BLDG
104 W. 3RD ST.
GROVE, OK 74344

JAY
JAY SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER
816 MAIN ST.
JAY, OK 74346

KENWOOD
KENWOOD NUTRITION SITE
4 KENWOOD 13001
SALINA, OK 74347

KANSAS
POLICE DEPT/UTILITY DEPT
150 S. CHEROKEE ST.
KANSAS, OK 74347

CHEWEY
SKELLY SCHOOL
RT 1, BOX 918
WATTS, OK 74964

AFTON
COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER/CITY HALL
201 SW 1ST STREET
AFTON, OK 74331

DISTRICT 3

VIAN
VIAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
100 S. BLACKSTONE
VIAN, OK 74962

MARBLE CITY
MARBLE CITY HALL
122 N. MAIN ST.
MARBLE CITY, OK 74945

SALLISAW
SALLISAW FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
2100 MCGEE
SALLISAW, OK 74955

MULDROW
CHEROKEE NATION COMMUNITY CENTER
601 MAIN ST
MULDROW, OK 74948

BELFONTE
BELFONTE SCHOOL
475751 ST. HWY 101
MULDROW, OK 74948

WARNER
WARNER MIDDLE SCHOOL
EVENT CENTER
1012 5TH AVE.
WARNER, OK 74469

FT GIBSON
FT. GIBSON TOWN HALL
200 W. POPLAR AVE.
FT. GIBSON, OK 74434

MUSKOGEE
THREE RIVERS HEALTH CENTER
1001 S. 41ST STREET EAST
MUSKOGEE, OK 74403

DISTRICT 4

BARTLESVILLE
KEELER HTS. COMMUNITY BLDG
1003 S. VIRGINIA
BARTLESVILLE, OK 74003

VINITA
TOM BUFFINGTON HEIGHTS
900 MCNIELS
VINITA, OK 74301

S. COFFEYVILLE
CHEROKEE NATION COMMUNITY BLDG.
215 OKLAHOMA ST
S. COFFEYVILLE, OK 74072

NOWATA
NOWATA SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER
238 N. MAPLE ST.
NOWATA, OK 74048

WELCH
GATEWAY ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH
440 W. 10TH
WELCH, OK 74369

PRYOR
AG BUILDING FAIRGROUNDS
OLD HWY 20
PRYOR, OK 74361

SALINA
SALINA AMO COMMINITY CLINIC
900 N. OWEN WALTERS BLVD
SALINA, OK 74365

LOCUST GROVE
LOCUST GROVE CITY HALL
109 E. ROSS
LOCUST GROVE, OK 74352

SPAVINAW
SPAVINAW POLICE DEPT/CITY HALL
103 LAKE AVE.
SPAVINAW, OK 74366

DISTRICT 5

TULSA
TRINITY CHRISTIAN CHURCH
1055 N. GARNETT
TULSA, OK 74116

COLLINSVILLE
COLLINSVILLE LIBRARY
1223 W. MAIN
COLLINSVILLE, OK 74021

CLAREMORE
CLAREMORE VFW
1717 W. DUPONT
CLAREMORE, OK 74017

CHELSEA
CHELSEA SENIOR CITIZENS
618 PINE ST
CHELSEA, OK 74016

OOLOGAH
OOLOGAH ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH
13462 S. HWY 169
OOLOGAH, OK 74053

Run Off Elections Today! Please Vote!

2011-07-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

This is a critical time for us as Cherokees. "We can no longer afford to be spectators or innocent bystanders......Every eligible Cherokee voter must vote." ~ David Cornsilk

Today, voters go to the polls to decide who will be the next deputy chief of the Cherokee Nation. Because there will be a new election for chief and it is yet to be scheduled, the newly elected deputy chief will be acting as principal chief when the current chief's term expires. Because if this, we must vote wisely for someone who will be leading our nation, even if only for a short while.

We are also voting on who will fill three seats on the council. These are all important and I hope everyone will get to the polls to let their voice be heard. If you want change in the Cherokee Nation, the time is NOW. This will not and cannot wait. Please vote.

I endorse the following candidates in the run offs -

Joe Crittenden for Deputy Chief

Mark Vance for District 1 council seat (Walkingstick is also a very good guy.)

Jodi Fishinghawk for District 2 council seat

Dick Lay for District 4 council seat

A vote for any of the people listed above would be greatly appreciated, but if you choose to vote for someone else, that is okay. Please, just vote and let your voice be heard.

Run Off Elections Tomorrow! Please Vote!

2011-07-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, voters will go to the polls to decide who will be the next deputy chief of the Cherokee Nation and who will fill three seats on the council. These are all important and I hope everyone gets to the polls to let their voice be heard.

I endorse the following candidates in the run offs -

Joe Crittenden for Deputy Chief

Mark Vance for District 1 council seat (Walkingstick is also a very good guy.)

Jodi Fishinghawk for District 2 council seat

Dick Lay for District 4 council seat

A vote for any of the people listed above would be greatly appreciated, but if you choose to vote for someone else, that is okay. Please, just vote and let your voice be heard.

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

New Election for Principal Chief

2011-07-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

There will be a new election for principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. If you did not vote before, you will be able to vote in the new election if you are registered to vote. We are still trying to find out if those not registered to vote will be able to register and vote in the new election.

To check if you are currently registered to vote, contact the Election Commission:

Cherokee Nation Election Commission
918-458-5899 or 1-800-353-2895
Fax 918-458-6101
election-commission@cherokee.org

If you are not registered, here is the voter registration form.

Update in the Disputed Election for Principal Chief

2011-07-09T02:00:00.000-07:00

Court will meet again at 8:30 am this morning to continue with the appeal filed by Chad Smith over the disputed election for principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. For more information, please visit the following links.

Court Hears Voter Registration and Recount Process Testimony

Cherokee Nation Officials Testify Recount Could be Flawed

Cherokee Nation Tribal Hearing on Chief Election to Continue Saturday

Cherokee Supreme Court Hears Testimony Over Election

Cherokee Nation Election

Cherokee Nation Election and Research

2011-07-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

Boy, the Cherokee Nation election sure has been a roller coaster ride, hasn't it? Tomorrow there will be a gathering outside the courthouse by concerned Cherokee citizens. Chad Smith has requested a new election. As you all are aware, this election is of the utmost concern of the Cherokee people so I have been preoccupied with it. Not only do we have the issues surrounding the Principal Chief election, we also have some run offs coming up, including the office of Deputy Chief, and those are important too.

While I am busy helping with some of the campaigns and trying to keep you up to date on information from the election, I am also doing research and will soon have the first installment of my new series, "Fortune Hunters, the Guion Miller Roll, and the Birth of the Wannabe." Stay tuned!

Those are my thoughts for today.
Thanks for reading.

The Granddaughter

Wordless Wednesday - Fort Southwest Point - Part 1

2011-07-06T02:45:00.000-07:00

**Note - My visit was in September of 2010. This historic site was currently under re-construction so visits at a later date may offer even more to see.

For more information, please visit the Fort Southwest Point website.

Bill John Baker WINS in Recount!

2011-06-30T19:41:00.000-07:00

See the story here! Channel 6

And as expected, Smith files appeal.

Cherokee Nation Election Update

2011-06-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

After a delay in the recount due to information and testimony given about two Election Commission vault breeches that occurred over the weekend, the recount is now in process. Each ballot, over 15,000, will be counted by hand. Estimated time for the recount is five to six hours.

**News report on the protest**

Demonstration to be Held by Concerned Cherokee Citizens

2011-06-30T02:55:00.000-07:00

June 29, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DEMONSTRATION TO BE HELD BY CONCERNED CHEROKEE CITIZENS
June 30, at Election Commission Offices during ballot recount

A peaceful demonstration of concerned Cherokee citizens is set to begin Thursday morning to alert and raise the conscious level of the public as to what they are calling corruption in their election for Principle Chief. Protesters will assemble outside the Cherokee Election Commission Offices in Tahlequah, where a recount of ballots is scheduled to be held.

Demonstrators planning to attend say it is critical they bring public attention to the gross negligence and dereliction of the Election Commission. Although the Saturday final election results for Principle Chief were announced by the Commission about sunrise on Sunday morning, by Monday those numbers had changed.

After an all night ordeal Commissioners finally exited the building around 6:30 Sunday announcing, the reason the count had taken so long was because they wanted to be sure their figures would stand good in any challenge stating, “These are the final numbers. We are tired and hungry and are going to breakfast and will then come back to certify these numbers.”

Upon being told the figures were final, watchers were dismissed. However commissioners failed to return until early Monday morning where, within a short period and without watchers present, they announced an error had been discovered that reversed the results in the election for Chief.

“This exemplifies the expanding pattern of injustice the Cherokee people have experienced under the present administration,” stated Jack Crittenden, one of a number of Cherokees who stayed at the Election Commission all night until the final results were announced.

Which of these "Cherokee" songs do you think is best of the best?
	The Ballad of Will Rogers - Chris LeDoux
	Cherokee Fiddle - Johnny Lee
	Tsa La Gi, We Are Many - Becky Hobbs
	Cherokee Rose - Corey Smith
	Different People - Litefoot

pollcode.com free polls

Thoughts from Polly's Granddaughter

Dissecting a Family Myth - One Year Later

Destroying the Field - Diggin' Up Bones

Destroying the Field - Grandpa, Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days

Destroying the Field - Some People Dig and Find Gold..................

Things I've Learned While Doing Cherokee Genealogy

When You Just Have to Do Something....

Thriller Thursday - Conclusion to the Groundhog Murder Trial

From My Inbox - It Isn't Just Me Who Says It!

You Can't Handle the Truth!

Sentimental Sunday - Crane Eater: A Story of Mistaken Identity and the Quest for Truth

She's dug in, baby! Let the Battle for Truth in Genealogy Begin!

Friday Funny - Nothing Like Posing with Your Hog!

Thriller Thursday - Groundhog Guilty, Sentenced to Hang

Wordless Wednesday - Segment of the Trail of Tears Route

Tuesday's Tip - Getting Your Family More Interested in Genealogy

Tombstone Tuesday - Couseen Downing

Beware the Eastern Redbud!

This Is How We Do It! (Cherokee Wannabe Genealogy)

Be Careful in Your Assumptions

Thriller Thursday - Groundhog Trial Continued

Tombstone Tuesday - John Moore

Matrilineal Monday - Polly's Granddaughters (Part 1)

Repetition of a Lie

Top 11 Posts from 2011

Top 5 - Best "Cherokee" Songs

Worst of the Worst Songs - Poll Results

"Go Hard or Go Home" - Facts vs Fiction

Thriller Thursday - "Whiskey - Pistol - Death"

Great Story with Awesome Research! Worth a Read!

News Article about My Grandpa, Aaron Carey, and His Service

Top 5 - Worst "Cherokee" Songs

From My Inbox

Interview with Cynthia Thompson, Owner of Native Findings

Back to Business!

Principal Chief Bill John Baker Swearing in Ceremony

It's Over! We Do Have a New Chief! Baker Sworn in Tonight!

Will Smith Ever Concede?

It's Official! Bill John Baker has Been Elected Chief of the Cherokee Nation!

Per the Tahlequah Daily Press -

Statements from the Candidates for Principal Chief

Statement from Bill John Baker

********

Statement from Chad Smith

Breaking News! Cherokee Nation Election Results - Baker Wins!

Urgent Cherokee Nation Update!!!! Baker Wins - Unoffical Count

URGENT... UNOFFICIAL CHEROKEE CHIEF RESULTS: Bill John Baker wins, 10,633, to Chad Smith's 9,099. That's 53.89 percent, to 46.11 percent. This does not include approximately 150 challenged ballots, which will be tallied later today.

The Continuing Cherokee Nation Election

Why Abolish Columbus Day?

Baker Leading After Count of Walk In and Precinct Voting

September 24th Cherokee Nation Election Results Thus Far

Cherokee Nation Election September 24-October 8 - In Person Voting Numbers

Cherokee Election - Ballot Counting to Begin Today

Notice: Freedmen Descendants Protest

Federal Freedmen Descendants' Case Dismissed

New Site to Sell Indian Arts and Crafts - Native Findings

If you are a Native artist who sells online or are a consumer who wishes to purchase authentic Indian/Native made items, please visit Cynthia's site. Hopefully soon, we will catch Cynthia and get an interview with her so we can learn more about her awesome new website!

Cherokees Can Continue to Vote Until October 8th Too

The order just came down that Cherokees by blood as well as Freedmen Descendants, can vote until Oct. 8th.

Walk-in at the Election Commission Office in Tahlequah only, Thursday, Sept 29th; Saturday, October 1; Tuesday, October 4th; Thursday, October 6th; and Saturday, October 8th.

You must have been registered to vote in tribal elections before the March 31 deadline in order to vote in this election.

September 24 Cherokee Nation Election Results Coming Soon

Cherokee Nation Election Today

FOUND! Last Known Picture of James Keith! (A Little Cherokee Humor!)

Latest on the Freedmen Descendants and the Election

"Freedmen, Be Prepared to Vote" says Marilyn Vann

Chief Crittenden - "The Cherokee Nation will not be governed by the BIA."

Ethics in Genealogy

The BIA Speaks! Letter to Chief about the Freedmen Descendants!

Freedmen Descendants Disenfranchised Once Again

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Election

Unofficial Results for Chief

Unofficial Results for Vice Chief

What A Privilege! Sneak Peek at Private Collection!

How to Spot Wannabe Indians by Simon Moya-Smith

New Domain! We Are in Transition!

Let Crane Eater Rest In Peace

Our Condolences to Principal Chief and Family

New Feedback and Comments Page!

Propaganda in the Cherokee Nation Election

Contact: Jack Crittenden
Former Adviser to the Principal Chief