Indigenous Relatives & Ancestors: Photographs Captured in Time….

With all of the interesting direct (blood) and indirect (in-law) relationships I've discovered throughout my family tree, I wanted to create an "old family photo wall" for our new house.

After nearly 2 years of genealogical research, the findings (especially on my paternal side) shocked me and only led me to do more research. A ton of footwork, trips to archives, genealogy societies, libraries, family members I've never met have all paid off. Although my paternal grandfather has some intriguing links, it's my paternal grandmother who has direct blood relationships (mostly) with some well known native Americans and indigenous peoples, as she has many incredible genealogical connections going as far back as the 1400s with the Ojibway in the Great Lakes Regions. My Ojibway tribal nation was started and built by Chief Red Bear I and strengthened by Chief Red Bear II. Hereditary chiefs were (and continue to be) next in line and this is how our Grand Chief (Ogimaa) was "chosen" - by being passed down the reigns and responsibilities of a leader. We mustn't forget one of our most infamous and prominent Chiefs, Chiefs Little Shell (I through IV) also helped in shaping the Ojibway Nation. Anyways....

I always loved seeing other peoples' old black & white photographs of their relatives long passed adorning the walls alongside their staircase.

You know what I'm talking about, too...those friends who have a ton of ancient looking, yet very cool pictures everywhere decorating every wall of their home. So much so that when you go upstairs to use their bathroom, you end up spending more time gawking at the old B&W framed photos of people you don't know and won't ever meet; ascending the stairs and adorning the hallway...practically EVERYWHERE!?! Mmmhmm. I know you know what I'm talking about! 🤭

I usually get so lost in time, intently gazing at each individual in each picture, carefully and diligently examining their expressions and clothing...but that's only until my friend has to come "find" me because apparently I got "lost" going to their bathroom. 😂 
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