Oo-Mah-Ha Ta-Wa-Tha (OMAHA CITY)

This little book tells many important tribal stories for today and for future generations. These historic vignettes of the Omaha Nation and its leaders are shared so personally by author Fannie Reed Giffen and her collaborators, Susette and Susan La Flesche. It has been a treasure of mine for 25 years and I hope it becomes one of yours.

The re-publication of the original comes on the 125-year anniversary of the 1898 Omaha Trans-Mississippi Exposition and Indian Congress. Its arrival is timely as many of its stories and people are vital to our nation's history. A sculpture of Omaha Chief Big Elk will stand proudly on the banks of the Missouri as the city of Omaha celebrates its namesake this summer! Susette La Flesche Tibbles is known today for her role in the Trial of Ponca Chief Standing Bear. She is recognized as an activist for Indian rights along with her sister Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte, the first Native American Physician. Their stories were not part of my childhood, yet today these amazing women inspire me.

The stories of America's first people are essential to an understanding of our country. More and more, books like this are shining a light on people we need to know. I want to thank Zea Books for making this little jewel of American history accessible for more of us to appreciate and enjoy.