Honoring the Legacy of Chief Halito: Paying Tribute to an Oregon Icon at Mount Halo

Honoring the Legacy of Chief Halito: Paying Tribute to an Oregon Icon at Mount Halo

When it comes to preserving and honoring the cultural heritage of Indigenous people, one small act can make a big difference. This is certainly true of the recent decision by the US Board on Geographic Names to rename Oregon’s Swastika Mountain as Mount Halo in honor of Chief Halito of the Yoncalla Kalapuya Tribe.

The mountain had previously taken its name from an old cattle ranch in the area that used a Sanskrit symbol meaning ‘good luck’ or ‘well-being’ as their brand. But following World War II, when the swastika became associated with hatred, many felt that it was time for this historically significant landmark to receive a new title more befitting of its original purpose.

That’s when Joy McClain, a resident of Eugene, Oregon, stepped in. After seeing the mountain's name mentioned in a local paper, she proposed to rename it ‘Umpqua Mountain’ to acknowledge the Umpqua River and the Umpqua National Forest. However, at the same time another proposal was made to refer to the mountain as 'Mount Halo,' which McClain graciously relinquished her own idea in favor of honoring Chief Halito.

Chief Halito was known for his negotiating skills during treaty discussions as well as standing up for his right to remain on his land until he passed away in 1892. David Lewis, assistant professor at Oregon State University noted that “for me it's like returning some of the heritage back to the area”, adding that changing the mountain’s name to ‘Mount Halo’ was simply the right thing to do.

McClain agreed that this change was long overdue and stated “It feels pretty good that one little person could make such a difference.” This is yet another example of how important it is for us to honor our past by recognizing, appreciating and preserving cultural heritage whenever possible. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations are able to appreciate and commemorate their ancestral roots.

For Chief Halito, his legacy now lives on at Oregon's Mount Halo – a fitting tribute to an impressive historical figure who dedicated his life to protecting the rights of his people until the very end.

So, next time you’re heading out for an adventure in Oregon, be sure to stop by and pay homage to one of the state’s most beloved leaders at Mount Halo. You won’t regret it!