Great Woman: Chipeta of the Uncompahgre Ute, 1843-1924
Behind or alongside every strong man is an equally strong woman. Chipeta, or White Singing Bird, the wife of Chief Ouray of the Uncompahgre Ute was one such example. Chipeta, 1843-1924, was born a Kiowa-Apache. Shortly after her birth, she was taken in by the Uncompahgre Ute tribe and raised as one of them. In 1859, she married Ouray. She quickly became his most respected confidant and advisor. A kindly and intelligent woman who was perceptive to the people and situations around her, she often sat with her husband in tribal council meetings. A beautiful woman who was renowned for her beadwork, she could also step in when matters threatened to get out of hand. When her brother attempted to assassinated Ouray, he grabbed his knife to defend himself. Chipeta seized the sheath and the knife out of her husband's hand, saving her brother's life, but also saving Ouray from any possible repercussions from her family. Chipeta acted t...