THEN— THEY CAME TO CHEMAWA
FORMER GRADUATES— NOW STAFF
February 25, 1880, Forest Grove, Oregon.
Eighteen students, a teacher, two aides and O
Wilkinson (detailed U. S. Army) met in three log
buildings. Thus Chemawa Indian School was born.
David Brewer and a work crew of boys arrived five
miles north of Salem, Oregon, on land donated by
the State of Oregon They cut trees and built log
buildings to replace those which had burned at For
est Grove. A few weeks later, the students arrived.
Many walked, a few rode in wagons and the youngest
rode the train. Chemawa rose from the ashes of fire
to continue.
NOW— 1963-64
From the northern tip of the North American con
tinent and from the southwest areas of the United
States, they came by air and by bus. Navaho and
Alaskan, 875 strong, they come.
WHY?
“I want an education. Education is important,”
most would answer. What is this education which
Chemawa has offered thousands of young Indian men
and women through the 84 years of her existence?
Chemawa is interested in each student as a person,
his present aspirations and hopes for the future.
Chemawa is interested in the whole students; educa
tional development, health and well being; choosing
a life work; character and citizenship.
Upon entering, a Chemawa student is housed in
a comfortable room in one of five dormitories. Pleas
ant recreational rooms and areas, quiet study rooms
and modern conveniences are provided for student
use. A well trained guidance staff is available for
counseling, acting as away-from-home parents. The
well staffed cafeteria under the direction of a dietic
ian Drovides attractive, wholesome meals Two re
creational leaders help students plan and carry out
worthwhile leisure time activities as well as an active
athletic program and arts and crafts work. Under
the direction of religious leaders services of many
faiths are provided.
The educational staff welcomes each student as an
individual. The program is planned to aid each
student go as far as he is able and wishes in the edu
cational program. Students may choose to prepare
for college and pursue a preparatory course with
high school graduation; he may choose to explore
various vocational areas as preparation for more ad
vanced technical training, or a job. Well equipped
shops, a large farm and dairy are available for his
use during the training program. The clinic and hos
pital operated by the Public Health Service and den
tist care for his physical needs. Specialized services
are available in the area as well as the services of a
full time social worker.
Located in a metropolitan area in a rich farming
center, Chemawa offers students many opportunities
for Saturday and summer employment. During the
fall harvest season there is need for platoon work.
In addition to platoon, work there are openings in
home service. An average of 100 girls are employed
each Saturday. Not only does this give the students
work experience, an opportunity to earn money, but
also to develop friendly relationships within the com
munity. Many boys find work in various activities.
If willing to work most students have an opportunity
to earn money for their needs.
For students finishing their schooling, several
choices are offered. A full time placement officer
will aid them in going on Relocation; enroll for ad
vanced technical training or job placement. College
bound students have available loans and grants which
will enable them to follow their interests in higher
education.
Many Chemawa students have chosen, after grad
uation and training, to return to work with their
own people.