First in Peace: The Delaware Indian Nation and its 1778 Treaty with the U.S.

In 1778, the United States negotiated a formal alliance with France during the Revolutionary War, marking the new nation’s first treaty with a foreign government. A lesser known, but vital part of the struggle for independence from Great Britain is how the United States sought the alliance of Native American nations. At Fort Pitt on Sept. 17, 1778, the United States and the Delaware Indian nation signed a treaty of alliance that pledged “perpetual peace and friendship.” The Delaware nation was first in peace as it signed the first formal treaty between the United States government and a Native American nation.

Author David Preston will explore the larger ways that Indian nations and frontier issues shaped the American Revolution, and the significance of the Delaware Treaty and why it deserves to be remembered today.

Program registration includes museum admission to enjoy living history programming and two floors of interactive exhibitions throughout the day, as well as light refreshments, which will be available from 5 – 6 p.m. prior to the lecture.