The Legend of Wapsipinicon
by
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Wapsi was a brave, loyal, vigilant young warrior with strong convictions. His tall lean stature, reflected the same inner courage he relied on to keep himself alive. His dark piercing eyes first caught a glimpse of a young Indian maiden from a neighboring tribe. He hid behind bushes and trees, as he watched her by the stream, clean clothing against a rock and laying them out to dry.
His eagerness to speak with her, took hold of his tongue and he said, “Who are you and are you from the Sac/Fox tribe?”
Pinicon shock with terror as she realized someone had been watching her and now spoke. She glanced through the bushes, beyond the small meadow, which held the butter cup, wild ginger and the marigolds in its hands. There next to a large Dutch elm, stood a magnificent young man. He was handsome, stood like a tanned warrior, but wore a compassionate face. The smile he gave her, opened her heart and
released the fear that was imprisoning her. She lowered her head, as was the custom for young Indian girls to do when meeting a warrior who was not of her tribe.
Again he spoke, “Who are you?”
“I am, I am Pinicon.” she answered softly. “I am of the Sac tribe. My father is
Chief. I come from a long line of chieftains.”
Her eyes gathered tears, as she shamed herself with sudden exposure of her heritage.
“This young man is our enemy,” she thought. “He may try to hurt or even kill me.”
Reading her uneasiness and fear, Wapsi walked to her side very slowly. “Do not fear me. I will not harm you. My father, too, is a chief. I am Wapsi.” he spoke softly, but assuredly.
Raising her head, she looked into his eyes. They were the eyes of a kind, yet fearless warrior. She knew he spoke the truth and she had little doubt in her heart. Her heart would always warn her of impending danger and she relied on its signals. This time the signal was different and she didn’t know how to explain the very strange feeling she was having. Fear never made her heart race at such a steady and hard pace. When she had that sensation her feet would fly and her arms would follow. This time her feet stood to the ground and her arms close to her side.
She now realized that she was near the “Neutral Strip”. These were two new lines drawn to separate the Sioux from the Sac/Fox tribes. The government had drawn a dividing line that would keep peace in this particular area. After a few years of
battle, another line was drawn, both twenty miles north and twenty miles south of the existing divider, which had been called the “Neutral Line”. She stood too close to the newly marked area and felt compelled to run. However, that calming look and reassuring glance that he extended to her, faded her fears and she stayed.
Her days are not spent pining over what might have been, but rather rejoicing in the life she was given. So many hidden treasures that found their window of opportunity through this unexplainable event. Writing, reading, and drawing were not only gifts, but tools. Tools to assist her in deciding which direction she was going. Skills that were carefully placed in her midst and given time to be discovered. A discovery that only she could make.
Her parents are even more united. They saw a love that stood the perils of time and grew stronger. At any age, if faith is believed and lived it becomes the strongest
connection of any relationship. A lesson that is learned over and over again. Love, is the discovery of ourselves in others. And that reflection should always meet our highest expectations. They learned that from two young people that reminded them of these lessons. Lessons that while you’re alive, live and do it with dignity.
Today cement path ways connect each bank of the Wapsipinicon. The bridge carries traffic from one side to the other. As people race to their destinations, few know of the joys and hardships this mighty river has witnessed. Some of her stories have been lost with time and others never told. The secrets are hidden in the ripple of the waves, the pull of the current, and reflection from her surface. She flows, rages, trickles, and sometimes spreads her love over the land.
The Wapsipinicon River united two lovers with its name and carries them forever. When the story is retold, people will look upon it as a home. They will see the survival of two nations joined to pass over this earth as a reminder of their presence and a natural monument of their past.
The river called out their names and they, in turn, answered with theirs. Leaving in its wake a legacy of truth, honor, and undaunted love. Much like their love, their names will be joined throughout the passage of time.
Only the Great Spirit walks with them now. Their breath brings life to the flowers, trees, and animals of this great state of Iowa.
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About the Book
The Legend of Wapsipinicon is not only written as an historical/fiction novella, but also with other literary elements. With the implementation of time travel, characters were given the vehicle of expedition into the future. The characters depth could be enhanced by his or her Christian values and beliefs. Poetry and prose is my style of sententious writing which offers a variety for readers. Few words with more meaning gives me the opportunity to cover events, quickly but critically.
Since Quasqueton is only a few miles from my house, I call this area my home. It was an honor for me to write about historical individuals, whose names were immortalized by this beautiful river. It’s beauty is equally shared by the people who also call this lovely location home.
I received much assistance from certain people who were named in this novel. Unfortunately, all the people of this great area could not be mentioned, but their spirits were represented in this writing. A special thank you to all of the citizens of Quasky for keeping your town alive and well for so many years. You have much to be proud of and especially your generosity of sharing it with others.
About the Author
Jan Short, also the author of Standing On Time, uses a short descriptive style in most of her novels. Her poetry and prose adds another dimension to the historical/fiction of her books. The interjection of a time warp gives the reader an interesting view of a region, from past to present. At the same time allowing her characters to come alive romantically as well as spiritually.
At present, she is a Middle School Literature instructor for the East Buchanan Community Schools located in Winthrop, Iowa. Her love of children and concern for quality education continues in her classroom. Understanding students as individuals and their important needs has always been a main focus of Jan’s. The philosophy of life that she believes in is being positive, motivated, and never giving up on your dreams.
She is active in community activities, church events and of course, her family. Phil, her husband, is a local farmer. They have two children and are very proud of both.