Welcome to the Chief J.B. Richardville Gravesite, a landmark that carries the echoes of history deep within its grounds. This site marks the final resting place of Jean Baptiste de Richardville, a pivotal figure in the history of the Miami people and the broader narrative of early America. Born around 1761 in the Miami village of Kekionga, present-day Fort Wayne, Jean Baptiste de Richardville, also known as Pinšiwa or Peshewa, meaning ‘Wildcat’ or ‘Lynx’ in the Miami-Illinois language, served as the last civil chief of the Miami tribe.
Richardville’s legacy began as a fur trader in the 1790s. His strategic control over the portage connecting the Maumee River to the Little River made him a key figure in trade and negotiations. By 1816, he emerged as a principal chief and remained a steadfast leader until his passing in 1841. Richardville played an instrumental role in several significant treaties between the Miami people and the United States government, including the Treaty of Greenville in 1795 and the Treaty of the Wabash in 1840. These treaties, although controversial for the personal benefits they provided to the signatories, were critical in delaying the removal of the Miami people from Indiana. His efforts ensured that many Miamis, including his own family, could remain in their homeland.
Richardville’s life was marked by a unique blend of his Miami heritage and French-Canadian lineage, given his mother was a Miami chieftess and his father a fur trader. This diverse background helped him navigate the complex political landscape of his time. He was once considered one of the wealthiest Native Americans in Indiana, owning significant land and receiving substantial cash settlements through treaty negotiations.
After his death, Richardville was succeeded by his son-in-law, Francis La Fontaine, as chief of the Miamis. Today, the gravesite serves as a poignant reminder of a leader who navigated turbulent times with both resilience and strategic acumen. As you stand here, reflect on the rich history this ground holds and the enduring legacy of Chief J.B. Richardville.
