The First Scythes: Makah Men Arrive in Port Townsend Looking for Work

Last Sunday night a vessel arrived here from Neah Bay, bringing five Makah Indians from the reservation, who had been permitted by their agent to come here in search of work. The notable part of the circumstance is that three of these Indians brought with them scythes and snaths, intending to work for our farmers in mowing grass. They have already filled their barns on the reservation with hay, and are said to be expert mowers. We believe this is the first time in the annals of our Territory—at least the Puget Sound portion—that Indians have been seen with scythes and snaths seeking employment, and the fact reflects much credit on the management of the reservation. Here is a practical benefit to the Indians by which they can earn something, and a benefit which will do more toward civilizing them than all the schooling or plans which they cannot comprehend and will not attempt can possibly do. The names given in the paper include Jimmy, Jeff, Tommy and Kiamka. On Tuesday last Judge Swan brought them to the office. They are tall, well dressed, and looked as though they could perform good service in the hay-fields or mills. They evinced much interest in the type and press, which we endeavored to explain, but they could not understand until, having a card form on the press, we struck off a card for each, which pleased them very much, though the printing was a mystery and a big 'tomahawk' to them. We are glad to notice this evidence of improvement among the Makahs, formerly the most wild and ferocious tribe on the coast. The work of civilization among them was commenced by H. A. Webster, the first Agent, from 1862 to 1866, and continued by Judge Swan; these Indians were most of them scholars in his school. We hope they will be encouraged by getting the employment they seek.