Walter "Blackie" Wetzel

NCAI President Blackie Wetzel accompanied by United States President John F. Kennedy in front of the

President of the National Congress of American Indians

Grandpa Blackie became the Tribal Chairman of the Blackfeet in the 1950s. It was the beginning of what would become a remarkable political career. His main push at the time was to get the economy started and housing for his people throughout the reservation. From what I recall of his work during this time was the challenges of building trust within his people and bridging the relationships with non-Indians. He would become a national treasure, receiving praise from United States President John F. Kennedy and other world leaders.

Grey eagle

Later in the 1970’s, my grandfather would appear in the movie Grey Eagle and play the role of the Medicine Man.

legacy

Blackie Wetzel would serve his people for 40 year's before retiring in Montana. His legacy leaves behind an everlasting impact that is still evident today. A true inspiration in my life.

Stellar Athlete

After graduating from Shelby high school, Blackie would go on to attend the University of Montana and compete in three sports(football, track and boxing). As a three-sport standout for the Grizzlies, some viewed my grandfather as the Jim Thorpe of Montana and in Indian Country at the time.

This was just the beginning of what would become the legendary story of an American hero, Walter "Blackie" Wetzel.

The Logo

In 1971 my grandfather felt that the “R” logo on the NFL football team Washington Redskins was not the right representation for the great American Indian. In his efforts to change the logo, my grandfather, referencing photos of Native American's, presented a warrior profile to the NFL organization requesting that team executives use it. They did.