Elijah Wheelock Testimonial

1899.45029 p. 84 of NARA record (#98 in top right corner)

December 1898

Elijah Wheelock, Oneida reservation, Wisconsin, was formerly a pupil at Carlisle. After his return to the reservation he wanted to continue his education. He was told by an agent of the Educational Home that the School was one of the best, superior even to Carlisle or Hampton. He stated that the studies of the Educational Home were not as advanced as he had been taught at Carlisle. In comparing the Educational Home with Carlisle he stated that the food was not as good or the building as thoroughly cleaned. He was told in the West that by coming to the Home he could learn any trade he wished, and if he did not want to do that, would be able to secure employment; that they had various shops, but they have nothing of the kind. He stated he was unable to learn anything the school room, and was now working the machine room as fireman, carrying out ashes, etc.

Wheelock was asked how he was occupied during the day. He said only half of the day he worked in the boiler room, and the other half he did nothing but loaf around. When he first came he was promised a position, but the promise was not fulfilled.

Document History

• Transcribed by HS 2025-07-27