Brass Compass

ROM2004_1036_6.JPG

Title

Brass Compass

Subject

Tecumseh

Description

“History of the ‘Tecumseh Brass compass,’ as given by an Indian woman, named ‘Winnipegoosquaw,’ a member of the Shawnee Tribe of Indians who resided in Western Canada on the River St. Clair. Chief Tecumseh joined forces with General Sir Isaac Brock in August, 1812, near Amhertsberg, Canada. During a conversation between Tecumseh and General Brock, the latter drew from his pocket a small brass compass. Tecumseh immediately asked General Brock what o’clock it was, and was told the hour when the General looked at his watch. The Chief observed that the General carried two watches, whereas he had none. The General smilingly handed Chief Tecumseh the brass compass. The gift was, of course, graciously acknowledged by Tecumseh; however it was not long before he discovered his watch was always indicating the same time. Afterwards he summoned one of his trusty warriors, Chief Oshawana, and handing him the compass requested that it should be kept in a place of safety for him. It was engraved by Seweli, a local jeweler in Detroit, at the request of Oshawana after the death of Tecumseh.”

Rights

Royal Ontario Museum

Original Format

Compass