CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHOE INDIANS.
REV. W. M. WELLMAN, OKLAHOMA.
Christian work among the Cheyenne and Arapahoe Indians of Oklahoma was first entered upon some ten years ago. It was begun by two Christian Indians who labored with their own people until they were discouraged and the work well-nigh died. Afterwards several young men, one after another, came into the field, but though they were individually earnest, their work did not make much impression. They procured tables, chairs and reading matter and fitted up a room, but nine out of ten of those to whom they were sent could neither read nor write, and of course did not seem to be greatly drawn to current literature. In 1893, however, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Woodward took charge, and did most excellent service, remaining almost a year until they left to become missionaries in India.
(1) MISSION, DARLINGTON, OKLAHOMA.
(2) MR. AND MRS. WELLMAN AND INDIAN WOMAN AND CHILD.
Up to this time, for lack of funds and steady workers, the work had been but poorly organized, and though the men who had been leading were wise, earnest and true, yet as a force for permanent good, it was somewhat in question.
In 1895 Rev. R. H. Harper, coming to take charge, found, he says, one cheap two-room cottage, one pony, an old wagon and harness and besides these a table and a few chairs. He knew that unless more buildings could be procured, the work would amount to nothing. Upon request, the Interior Department set aside two acres of land near the government school for the use of the mission.