Hillers, John K. (1843-1925). Photograph of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.

9 1/4 x 7 1/8 in. albumen photograph on original cardstock mount with the following printed in the top margin, "Department of the Interior / Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories, Second Division, J.W. Powell, Geologist in charge." Uncredited but known to have been taken by John K. Hillers. Matted and framed for display, 16 1/2 x 13 in. Light, even toning to print. Not examined outside frame.

The photograph depicts Little Bear, a Cheyenne warrior, also known as, Na-ku-has-kit, wearing a breastplate and holding a bow and quiver, posed among rocks at the Grand Council in Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 10 May 1875.

In connection with John Wesley Powell's ethnographic survey work, Hillers took a series of photographs at the Grand Council. Accurately documenting his work, he noted, "I found six Cheyenne who had just left the warpath. I took them among the rocks and set them up as food for my camera." His diary records the specific date.

Little Bear fought a brave rearguard action in the face of Colonel John Chivington's troops at Sand Creek on 29 November 1864, and his heroic actions enabled many Cheyenne women and children to escape the massacre.

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Printed Books & Early American Photography, including Selections from the Larry Ness Collection

Hillers, John K. (1843-1925). Photograph of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.

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