Original Photograph Of Hooka Jim, Modoc Indian

L. HELLER

Publication: Watkins' Yosemite Art Gallery, 1873, San Francisco

Original Photograph of Hooka Jim. CDV. Image: 2.875"x4.25". Mount: 3.25"x5". This photograph is identified on front of mount as follows: "I certify that L. Heleer (sic) has this day taken the Photograph of the above Modoc Indian, prisoner under my charge. Capt. C. B. Throckmorton, 4th U.S. Artillery, Officer of the Day." "I am cognizant of the above fact. Gen. Jeff C. Davis, U.S.A." Also printed in very small type on blank edge of mount is: "Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1873, by L. Heller, in the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington." Hooka or Hooker Jim" was a prominent leader in the Modoc War. His group of Modocs joined Captain Jack's group in the Lava Beds, near Lake Tule, California, where for several months they frustrated the Army by their ability to kill and wound so many soldiers from their natural fortress while suffering only a few casualties themselves. Hooka Jim was also present and active in the murder and wounding of members of the Peace Commission, under flag-of-truce, at a negotiation meeting between the lines. While Captain Jack is said to have killed Canby, Hooka Jim tried repeatedly to shoot and kill Committee Member, L. S, Dyar, the Klamath Indian Agent. The killing of General E. R. S. Canby by these Modocs was an infamous event in which Canby was the highest-ranking officer ever killed in an Indian War. Hooka Jim eventually argued with Captain Jack and moved his people away from Captain Jack's group. He ultimately helped the Army to capture Captain Jack, and testified in military court against him. An important Modoc Indian leader. The image is a classic portrait-type image showing the upper third of Hooka Jim in a light-colored shirt, hair cut short, wearing a necklace around neck decorated with shells or elks teeth or something similar. The image shows considerable soiling or water spotting, and a little general fading. Good-Very good. Verso is filled with a printed description of the many products and services offered by Watkins' Yosemite Art Gallery, of San Francisco, including the statement: "The only genuine Photographs of CAPTAIN JACK, and the Modoc Indians."

Inventory Number: 53317