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Legend of the Nisqually Raven

Many Moons AGO three roamed and served the lands surrounding the great body of water now called Puget Sound. To the North was Tahoma. The strong Bear. Tillicum, the mighty Thunderbird, came from the South. And to the West lived Kcumkum, the endearing Salmon. For many years the three had strong tribes and great leaders. They gave themselves to cheerful service, working hard to serve those around them. Their lands were prosperous, full of happiness. That would end, however, as a great darkness fell upon the lands: all became lost. The people looked to the Chiefs of the three for guidance. The leaders worked very hard to continue their service and spirit, they called upon their memories and they called upon each other. They did not give up to the great darkness.

After twelve changes of the seasons in the darkness, a bright light shown upon the lands. It was a symbol for the three to gather, a conclave for all the people. KcumKum from the West, Tillicum from the South, and Tahoma from the North gathered at the light, brighter than the rising sun. The people gathered in the trees of the forest; the feathers of the Raven, Nisqually. They became as one: Kcumkum the body of the Raven, Tillicum the tail of the Raven, and Tahoma as its wings. The one is called Nisqually, “One Who Serves the Land.” It has now been many years since the three gathered, becoming one. Nisqually has filled the land with the incredible bright light of Brotherhood, Cheerfulness and Service. Wimachtendienk, Wingolauchsik, Witahemui.

Merger Process

Representatives from Kcum Kum #285, Tahoma #348, and Tillicum #392 Lodges met on Saturday, November 6, 1993 and Sunday, November 21, 1993 to discuss the merger of the three lodges*. According to the delegates, all of the issues and concerns were dealt with quickly and it was a relatively painless process. It was decided that the merger would occur during the weekend of the Section W1-B Conclave held April 22-24, 1994 at Camp Fire Mountain. Troy Young’s suggestion of “Nisqually” for the lodge name was selected over the original proposed name of “Kalai Kallakala,” which translates as “black raven.” The raven was kept as the lodge totem and Young was elected as the first Lodge Chief.


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