Lewis and Clark learned that western Cascades natives were called 'Flatheads' by eastern tribes. Skull modification marked freeborn status since slaves weren't allowed it. The Smithsonian published on Chinook chief Comcomly regarding this tradition in 1960. His skull was removed post-mortem, reached the Smithsonian in 1956, and was repatriated to the Chinook in 1972.
Elongated skulls of Pacific Northwest Native Americans covered up, speaker claims
Key facts
- Lewis and Clark reported that all natives west of the Cascade Mountains were known as 'Flatheads' by eastern natives
- Skull modification was a sign of freedom — freeborn natives modified their children's skulls while slaves could not
- The Smithsonian published a book on Chinook chief Comcomly (Conley) and the 'sign of freedom' practice
- Native burial practice involved raised graves with canoes placed on islands or rock outcrops to protect from predators, sometimes covered with a second canoe
- Chief Comcomly's skull was cut off about 3 years after his death despite his friendly relations with white settlers
- The skull ended up in England and was returned around 1960 with location listed as 'unknown grave'
- The University of Oregon's Native American studies program reportedly teaches nothing about this practice
Sources
Comcomly (tribal leader) | History | Research Startersebsco.com
His life ended in 1830 due to smallpox, and his death was marked by a troubling incident in which his skull was stolen and sold. Comcomly's legacy reflects the ...
Concomlylewis-clark.org
Concomly was a prominent Chinook citizen and leader. On November 17, 1805, he introduced himself to Lewis and Clark at Station Camp.
Comcomly Facts for Kidskids.kiddle.co
Then, in 1956, it went to the Smithsonian Institution. Finally, in 1972, Comcomly's skull was returned to the Chinook tribal members. They ...
Comcomlyen.wikipedia.org
... Smithsonian Institution in 1956. In 1972, Conconmly's skull was finally repatriated to Chinook tribal members for reburial. Namesakes. edit. There ...
A study of the skull of the famous chief comcomlybibliotheque.nat.tn
the Chinook sign of freedom : A study of the skull of the famous chief comcomly. Livre. Stewart, T. D. Edited by Smithsonian institution. Washington - 1960.
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