We would appreciate it if you would let us know where we can
get some information relative to the early history of
Wisconsin, especially that part of the state through which
the Chippewa River flows. We would like to get the names of
some early explorers and Indian chiefs that make a part of
the history of Sawyer County. Or, could you give us a number
of names that you think would be typical of the region
referred to that would make a good name for a small village?
WISCONSIN COLONIZATION COMPANY,
_Eau Claire, Wisconsin_.
We have looked somewhat into the matter suggested in your letter of
May 17 and have the following suggestions to make in connection with
it.
First, since Sawyer County is drained by the Chippewa River, and since
the first person of the English race who is known to have visited that
region was the famous traveler, Jonathan Carver, the name Carver would
seem to be an appropriate one for the village you have in mind.
Second, the first resident fur traders of Sawyer County were the
Warren brothers and John Baptiste Corbin. Either Warren or Corbin
would seem to us to make a good name for the town. Either name would
also be easy to spell and sufficiently euphonious.
Third, if an Indian name is desired, the first important Chippewa
chief of this region was Sha-da-wish. Among his descendants were
Ka-ka-ke, Labudee, Mon-so-ne, and Ke-dug-a-be-shew. The last two names
mentioned mean respectively moose tail and spotted lynx.