Lot 759
Utah Indian War Veteran Ribbon. This striking lapel ribbon was given to and worn by veterans of the Utah Indian Wars. These wars included the "Black Hawk" wars of the late 1840s to 1860s, and probably included the Mountain Meadows Massacre. The colorful vignette on the badge of an Indian probably depicts the Ute Indian leader Noonch, known to some whites as "Black Hawk" because they could not pronounce his real name. Much has been written on the Black Hawk wars, which started when the Mormons settled in the Salt Lake Valley in the 1840s. They quickly tried to eradicate the local Indians, and the conflict came to a head in 1849. In 1851, Mormons officially declared war on the Utes. In 1863, 280 Indians were massacred at Bear River. Within two years, Chief "Black Hawk" gained a force of 3000 warriors and drove back the Mormons. That war lasted until 1873. These ribbons are extremely rare. This piece is in extremely fine condition, with sharp color and detail with full gold fringe.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 2,000.
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| Realized $1,440 |
