Welcome to AMMSA.COM, the news archive website for our family of Indigenous news publications.

Circle incomplete without knowledge of heritage

Author

Letter to the Editor

Volume

14

Issue

2

Year

1996

Page 7

Dear Editor:

I am looking for assistance in my search to find my heritage. My

father told me I have Blackfeet blood in me, but I was not allowed to

learn about my father's side of our family as my mother forbid it. Now

I am an adult and I have promised my father I would do everything in my

power to learn his and ultimately, my history.

My grandfather left home when my father was small and I don't know

whether he is alive or dead. I have no idea where he was born, buy my

father was born in Miles City, Montana.

His name is Henry Miles Benham and he was born Aug. 3, 1916. This is

all I have. My father doesn't know where his birth certificate is

stored. I have a deep desire to find myself, at least this side. I am

also interested in any addresses, people, contacts, magazines, language

aides, newsletters, religious information or any other help that will

teach me the traditional ways of my people. I have no access to

genealogy books or materials. I am incarcerated and have very limited

access to any outside knowledge or assistance.

If you, or any organization you know, can help me trace my family, I

would greatly appreciate any help I can get. There is an Indian Nations

organization located here and I have been learning the Ojibwe language.

I have used the encyclopedias available, but they provide very little

information. I would like to learn as much as I possible can. Just how

much (Native) blood is in me is unknown, and I don't care about the

amount. The spirit of my ancestors has been dancing within my heart

throughout my life.

I want to complete the circle and fill the emptiness of not knowing my

Native ancestry. I hope to hear from you soon and will be eagerly

awaiting any help you may be able to provide. Any information provided

puts me that much closer to finding the answers I seek. Thank you for

your time and attention.

Sincerely Craig Benham

South Complex 229230

1790 E Parnall Rd

Jackson, Michigan 49201