Presented by Erich Ebel, Historian

In 1854, the Medicine Creek Treaty between regional Native American tribes and Washington's territorial government, led by Isaac Ingalls Stevens, kicked off a years-long conflict that forever changed the story of the Pacific Northwest. Sixty-eight years later, the Sacagawea Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution dedicated a marker commemorating the momentous treaty, at the foot of a single remaining Douglas Fir that became forever known as "Treaty Tree." Today, that tree is gone, but the clues left behind may be able to point us to the exact spot where it once stood amongst a grove of fir trees that bore witness to a pivotal moment in the history of Washington state. Join historian Erich Ebel for a look at what led to the Indian Wars, what has been learned since and why history must never be forgotten.

About the Speaker:
Erich Ebel has lived on the green side as well as the brown side. He's navigated the rivers and climbed the mountains. He's fished its lakes, hiked its trails, marveled at its geology, and studied it's fascinating, storied history to help share it with the world. Erich has spent the past ten years discovering and sharing stories about Washington's history, heritage, and culture. His blog, videos, and podcasts hold a treasure trove of interesting facts, unknown facets, and fascinating tales that help to educate the general public about the privileges of being in Washington.

As the principal of Washington, Our Home consulting, Erich is dedicated to assisting the state's cultural institutions in preserving and promoting their own stories by expanding and enriching the experience of their audiences. From logos to local history curriculum, strategy to social media, and news releases to new technologies, Washington, Our Home has the professional skills to help cultural community organizations reach a larger and more diverse audience, generate new heritage tourism dollars in local economies, and promote local history worldwide. Click here for more information.

Photo Courtesy: Council at Medicine Lodge Creek. J. Howland, Harper’s Weekly.

McMenamins History is pleased to broadcast live, free virtual programming, accessible to anyone with a Facebook account. We’ll bring you scholars, writers, experiencers, experts and more who will give presentations on Pacific Northwest history. Join us for these scheduled events on the McMenamins History page on Facebook – and don’t forget to stock up on your favorite McMenamins beer, wine, cider and more beforehand!