Seattle mayor visits gravesite of his city’s namesake

Murray’s visit coincided with his 100th day in office



SUQUAMISH — Seattle Mayor Ed Murray visited Chief Seattle’s gravesite, at the Suquamish Cemetery, on April 10.

Murray’s visit coincided with his 100th day in office, according to April Leigh, Suquamish Tribe communications coordinator.

The gravesite ceremony began with song and prayer. Murray was introduced to the Tribe’s royalty and elected officials, followed by a presentation by Joey Holmes of the Suquamish Museum staff, a statement by Murray, an exchange of gifts, and a closing prayer.

Seattle, or Si’ahl, c. 1780-1866, was leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish peoples and was the first signer of the 1855 Treaty of Point Elliott. He lived at Tsu-suc-cub, or Old Man House Village, on Agate Passage; the longhouse was the largest winter house in the Salish Sea, according to Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman.

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