Comanche-Meusebach Treaty
“Lasting Friendship”
The Comanche-Meusebach Treaty was also known as the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Commerce. Recognized as a historic treaty negotiated between the German Texan settler, John O. Meusebach, and the Penateka Comanche tribe in 1847. The treaty was signed near the banks of the San Saba River, in present-day Menard County, Texas. Commemorated by the bronze statue “Lasting Friendship” located in the Pioneer Garden in the Marktplatz.
The treaty was an important milestone in the relations between the Comanche people and the German settlers who were then beginning to colonize the area. Meusebach was serving as the commissioner for Indian affairs in Texas at the time. He sought to establish peaceful relations with the Comanche in order to protect the German settlements from raids and attacks.
Under the terms of the treaty, the Comanche agreed to allow the German settlers to peacefully settle in the region. This was in exchange for provisions such as food, tobacco, and other goods. The treaty established a framework for resolving disputes and conflicts between the two parties. It also included provisions for the safe passage of travelers and traders through Comanche territory.
The Comanche-Meusebach Treaty was one of the few treaties with Native American tribes in the United States that was never broken. In conclusion, it is considered an important example of successful diplomacy between settlers and indigenous people in the American West.
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