Looking Back’s theme for 2024 was Many Streams, celebrating our rich and diverse history. According to a 1964 article in the Olympian, Ernest Cheeka, Jr., was installed that year as Makah hereditary chief, after he reached adulthood. Cheeka, then a resident of Olympia, took the Indian name of Kolchote. He is pictured here with a ceremonial mask, in preparation for his installation. Cheeka was a Vietnam veteran, accomplished artist, and supporter of Native American rights and traditions. He died in 2011.
Daily Olympian photo, 1964, State Capital Museum collection, Washington State Historical Society, catalog C1986.43.64.12.4.1
Text © Deborah Ross and The Olympian 2024