Uncovering the Words of Umpqua Chief Solomon Riggs
Uncovering the Words of Umpqua Chief Solomon Riggs Umpqua Chieftain Solomon Gun-Conna-Cli Riggs 1827-1920 For many families, genealogy consists of names, dates, and official records. Every so often, however, a personal piece of history emerges that speaks directly across generations. Recently, I came across a remarkable three-page letter written by my 3rd great-grandfather, Chief Solomon Riggs . Solomon Riggs was an Umpqua Chief who led his people through one of the most turbulent periods in Pacific Northwest history—including the forced removal from their ancestral homeland near Winchester to the Grand Ronde Reservation in the mid-1850s. Beyond his leadership during the removal, Solomon served as a representative, agent, and advocate for the Umpqua people at Grand Ronde. This letter offers a rare, first-hand look into his work, his communication with government officials, and his ongoing effort to protect the rights and care of his tribal community. Below, I have transcribed and s...