Laun, Duwamish Timeline by Laun, Henry

Pre-Point Elliot Treaty

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:00:41 UTC

According to the University of Washington, the Duwamish people have lived in western Washington since the end of the last glacial period (8000BCE).

Point Elliot Treaty

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:05:50 UTC

Forced to cede their land by Isaac Stevens, Chief Seattle of the Duwamish was illegitimately designated as the leader of nearly everyone who lived on the Black River and coerced to sign the treaty. A reservation was not designated for the Duwamish under the treaty.

Construction of the Ballard Locks

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:10:03 UTC

The draining of Lake Washington and subsequent construction of the Ballard Locks in 1916 caused the Black River to disappear, forever affecting the Duwamish's access to salmon and fishing. They were forced to move out to continue procuring food, and this diaspora is utilized to prevent federal recognition.

Burning of the Duwamish Longhouse

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:17:05 UTC

In 1893, white arsonists burned Herring's House, the final Duwamish longhouse on the river.

Benefits Affirmed for Federally Recognized Tribes

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:21:21 UTC

In 1974, a federal judge affirmed fishing rights for those that signed the Steven's treaties. In 1988, Congress allowed gambling on tribal lands. This established important benefits for the Duwamish that they would gain with Federal recognition, upping the stakes.

1979 Denial

25hlaun — 2025-02-21 18:24:32 UTC

In 1979, Judge Boldt ruled that the Duwamish tribe did not include descendants from the signatories of the Point Elliot Treaty.

Duwamish Tribe Federally Recognized

25hlaun — 2025-02-27 08:32:30 UTC

Under the Clinton administration in 2001, the Duwamish became officially federally recognized due to questionable actions by Michael Anderson. However, the recognition only lasted two days and was promptly reversed under the Bush administration in 2002.

Duwamish Tribe Federal Recognition Rescinded

25hlaun — 2025-02-27 08:37:47 UTC

Just two days after receiving federal recognition, the Duwamish tribe's status was revoked and placed on hold under the Bush administration. Their recognition was later denied in the fall.

Duwamish Tribe's Appeal Denied

25hlaun — 2025-02-27 08:42:06 UTC

Under the Obama administration, the Duwamish tribe restarted their petition for federal recognition. Unfortunately, the Obama administration ruled that they did not have a proven long-term residence and that the petitions were not the proven ancestors of the Duwamish tribe. Attempts to appeal the decision in 2019 were denied.

Duwamish Tribe gets another chance at recognition

25hlaun — 2025-02-27 08:47:02 UTC

In February of 2025, a U.S. District Court judge released a ruling allowing the Duwamish tribe to receive another chance at gaining federal recognition. This time, their consideration will be under newer, more favorable rules.