Treasured Lincoln Canes – a Living Spirit of New Mexico’s Tribes - SantaFe.com

This article originally appeared in 2015

President Lincoln stirs many historically vivid moments: The Gettysburg Address, abolitionism, his murder.  But did you know this New Mexico fact?

Out of over 500 Indian Nations across the burgeoning union, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was the first President to acknowledged the sovereignty of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos.

In 1863, Dr. Michael Steck was appointed as Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the New Mexico Territory. He was a lone advocate for the tribes in New Mexico and recognized the Pueblo people for their peaceful culture and support for the Northern Army’s efforts in the southwest.

The Canes were presented by an Indian Agent to each Governor, inscribed with the year 1863, the name of each Pueblo, topped with the signature of ‘A. Lincoln.’  For each of the tribes, it was  a new birth for their inherent dominion and freedom for their communities. The canes were viewed as a living spirit representing leadership and self-governess.  In following the tradition of Canes originated by Spain and Mexico, Lincoln approved 19 silver tipped Canes, one for each Pueblo. This was meant to symbolize a perpetual commitment of the United States to honor Pueblo sovereignty.

Left: Portrait of Mariano Carpintero, Governor of Sandia Pueblo, 1899, Smithsonian Institution. Right: Portrait of Jesus Antonio Moya, Governor of Santa Ana Pueblo, 1899, Smithsonian Institution.

The “Lincoln Canes” remain potent symbols of continuing sovereignty, historical trauma notwithstanding, passed along to each new governor. Today, we honor the 206th birthday of Abraham Lincoln.

For more on Lincoln canes, the Santa-Fe-based nonprofit Silver Bullet Productions, where much of this information was sourced, produced a beautiful documentary entitled ‘CANES OF POWER,’ available online.

This article was posted by Cheryl Fallstead

Please Share!

Etiquette at Native American Pueblo Events
Taos pueblo dancers

In New Mexico it is a distinct privilege to be able to participate in pueblo events as welcomed guests. A little bit of knowledge of customs and cultural sensitivity will go a long way to ensure your experience of the pueblos, and the community’s experience of you, is mutually respectable. (Read “Native American Pueblo Dances, Feast Days, Festivals and Special Events in New Mexico”) Here are a few tips: Check in first with the main tribal office. It’s here you … Read More

Traditional Spanish Market
Hide painting by Ramon Jose Lopez at Traditional Spanish Market

One of the highlights of the Santa Fe summer months is the Traditional Spanish Market, presented by the Spanish Colonial Arts Society. The oldest and largest juried art show of its kind in the nation, the Spanish Market is a showcase for all things traditional in New Mexico. This unique event attracts tens of thousands of collectors, enthusiasts and visitors each year, with approximately 200 adult and mentored youth artists represented. Founded in 1926, to preserve and celebrate traditional Hispanic … Read More

The Santa Fe Symphony Presents Its 39th Season

For close to four decades, the Santa Fe Symphony & Chorus has been a cultural treasure of the City Different. Made up of world-class orchestral and choral musicians and complemented by award-winning guest artists from around the world, the concerts presented are made up of the very best classical music from all eras, for all ages. The 39th season of the Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra & Chorus kicks off on Sunday, September 11, 2022, at the Lensic Performing Arts Center. … Read More

Featured Businesses