Keeshkemun "Chief Sharpened Stone"

My sixth great-grandfather, Keeshkemun, (Chief Sharpened Stone), was a prominent 18th-century Ojibwe leader of the Crane Clan (Ajijaak dodem), born on Madeline Island—known to the Ojibwe as Mooningwanekaaning (the place of the flicker bird) —called Isle Sainte Michel by the French—and known today as Madeline Island. He succeeded his father, Zhedaawish Ajijaak, (Chief Bad Pelican), and married Okunzhewug Kinikinokwe. Together, they became foundational figures in the history of the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Madeline Island, particularly the historic La Pointe (French for "the point") community on its western shore, served as the spiritual and commercial heart of the Ojibwe world and as a vital hub within the Great Lakes fur trade network. In the early 19th century, however, Keeshkemun guided his people inland to Lac du Flambeau following the Ojibwe victory over the Dakota (Sioux) at the final battle on Strawberry Island (Odemin-minis). The region’s French name, meaning Lake of Torches, commemorates the Ojibwe practice of waaswewin — "torch fishing" —established there. Keeshkemun chose this area for its abundance of wild rice, fish and game, establishing it as a permanent settlement.

Keeshkemun—his name literally translating to "Sharpened Stone" — fitting for a man known for his sharp mind and oracle skills—is remembered for his fierce independence and commitment to Ojibwe sovereignty. During the War of 1812, he resisted British efforts to recruit the Ojibwe against the Americans, choosing neutrality to protect his people and their autonomy. As principal chief of the Crane Clan, he was recognized as a “medal chief,” a title given to leaders of great influence. Although European powers often used medals to strengthen political alliances with Indigenous leaders, Keeshkemun’s legacy is defined by his ability to maintain his authority without being controlled by colonial interests. His legacy remains deeply connected to the history of the Lake Superior Chippewa, and that historical significance made the island a natural site for the signing of the 1854 Treaty of La Pointe.

In the summer of 1827, my sixth great-grandmother, Okunzhewug Stone, an old woman, the wife of Keeshkemun, (a man superannuated and blind), attended the treaty of Butte des Morts, bearing her husband's medal. She was treated with the respect due to the character she represented, and ample presents were directed to be given to her; among other things a handsome hat. The latter article had been requested of her by a young Menomonie and refused. It is thought a general feeling of jealousy was excited by her good reception. A number of the Menomonies went on her return route as far as the Clover Portage, where she was last seen. Having never returned to her village, the Chippewas attributed her death to the Menomonies. Her husband, Keeshkemun, died soon after at the age of 87.  Keeshkemun's death marked the end of an era for Lac du Flambeau.

By the time of his death, Wisconsin had become part of the Michigan Territory, and U.S. treaty-making and land cessions were intensifying in the Upper Midwest. Keeshkemun was succeeded by his son Moozobodo (Moose Muzzle).

Zhedaawish Ajijaak, also spelled Shadawish, father of Keeshkemun, was my 7th great-grandfather. Zhedaawish was a prominent Ojibwe (Chippewa) Leader known as Chief Bad Pelican. He is the son of Kechenezuhyauh, Chief Great Elder Brother. Zhedaawish Ajijaak is remembered as a great chief of Sault Ste. Marie in 1671, a year of great tribal gatherings under French influence. His leadership was tied to the political and spiritual authority of the Crane Clan, which held influence over many Ojibwe bands. This lineage connects a long line of crane totem leaders who shaped Ojibwe governance and identity. Zhedaawish died at Lac du Flambeau, Indian Territory, Wisconsin. His legacy lives on through his son, Keeshkemun.

Kechenezuhyuah, (Chief Great Elder Brother/AKA. Great Bird), father of Zhedaawish and A-ke-gui-ow— “Neck of Earth” (also a chief) was a significant figure in the Ojibwe community recognized as the head chief of the Crane Clan at La Pointe, representing the Ojibway tribe at the signing of the Treaty in 1671 at Sault Ste. Marie, with the French, where he was honored with a gold medal shaped like a heart, symbolizing his status as chief of the Lake Superior Ojibwe. This medal was later buried with him in accordance with Ojibwe tradition, and his descendants searched for it in 1850, but the grave site had been washed away by high water. 

Chief Waubujejauk "White Crane" also spelled  —Waubujejauk, Waubijijauk, Waub-uj-e-jauk —the son of Akeguiow was an Ojibwe leader of the Crane Clan, who lived near Chequamegon Bay and was recognized as chief through descent rather than appointment, which earned him greater respect among his people; a respected chief in his own right. Waubujejauk was born in the St. Croix River area and came from La Pointe on the southern shores of Lake Superior. After his father’s death, he succeeded him as chief, holding authority over Madeline Island, La Pointe, and the Crane Clan of Chequamegon Bay. His leadership was rooted in the Crane clan’s tradition of oratory and diplomacy, as the Crane totem (Bus-in-as-see) was known for its loud, clear voice and role as interpreters in tribal councils. The Crane clan’s name comes from the crane bird, symbolizing a clear, resonant voice and leadership. The Crane Family were considered acknowledged orators and often represented the Ojibwe in intertribal councils. In the 21st century, one of Waubujejauk’s descendants created a sculpture titled Gateway to Madeline to the Island, depicting him rising from the red earth, honoring his legacy. Though noted for a more personal, less political style of leadership. His legacy endures in both oral history and modern art. Waubujejauk had a daughter named Equaysayway and a son named Tagwagane.

Keeshkemun's daughter Susanne (Kinikona/Kinicoua Kinik8e) Martin—my 5th great-grandmother, is the mother of my 4th great-grandmother, Catherine Martin. Catherine is the mother of my 3rd great-grandfather Peter Trottier/Truckey. Peter is the father of my 2nd great-grandmother, Angeline Truckey, Angeline is the mother of my great-grandfather, Charles Pemble. Charles is the father of my grandmother Delia Clara Leo, and Delia is the mother of my mother Rochelle Jean Leo. 

Ojibwe (Chippewa)
ᐅᒋᑉᐧᐁ (ᒋᑉᐯᐧᐊ)

Ojibweg, Ojibwe-Anishinaabeg
ᐅᒋᐺᒃ, ᐅᒋᐺᐊᓂᔑᓈᐯᒃ (Ojibwe)

Lineage