Memoirs of Nisqually

Although Joseph Heath continually lashed out, scolded, and intentionally offended the Native Americans that worked on The Nisqually Farm, they continued to work for him and maintain peaceful relations with him. I believe that Heath’s personal connections, personality, and the protection and resources he provided are the reasons that they continued to stay with him. These attributes that he provided were essential to the Natives that worked on the farm.

First, the personal connections that Heath had were extremely attractive to the Natives. As we have discussed in class, the white man was representative of wealth, and Heath certainly had access to wealth. Not only did he run a very large farm, he also friends with the other white men in the area. These relationships were very valuable to Heath and “his people” because of the trading opportunities. In addition, Heath maintained a strong relationship with the doctor at Fort Nisqually, who provided medicine to Heath which he then gave to Indians.

I also believe that Heath’s personality was a major reason the Indians stayed with him. Heath and The Nisqually Farm continually faced threats from hostile tribes and even members of Heath’s own people. In fact, Heath wrote in his journal that one tribe wished to “take my head to adorn their lodges” (Memoirs of Nisqually, p. 103). However, not once did Heath show any sign of fear. Furthermore, Heath never allowed himself to be shorted or taken advantage of. Heath and the Natives frequently quarreled over wages, and Heath never relinquished the upper hand. For example, when his washer was unhappy with her wages, Heath simply moved her out of the way and ironed his shirts and pants right in front of her, making it seem that he did not need her after all (Memoirs of Nisqually, p. 132). I believe that this supreme confidence and demand for respect was very attractive to the Natives.

Additionally, the protection that Heath provided the Indians was extremely valuable. In many instances in the journal, Heath described threats of hostile tribes in the area. And each time, he would make sure that “his people” were armed with muskets, balls, and powder.