"Jackson Beardy was an artist, art advisor and cultural consultant. As a symbol of Canadian artistic and cultural achievement, his artworks were commissioned for international gifts to illustrious world figures such as Queen Elizabeth II (1979), Prince Mikasa, Crown Prince of Japan (1980), And His Excellency Edward Schreyer, Governor-General of Canada (1979). The artist was awarded the Canadian Centennial Medal in 1967; a Canada Council grant for writing in 1972; the Junior Achievement Award in 1974; and the Outstanding Young Manitoban Award in 1982. His painting, his writing and his teaching all attest to Jackson Beardy's enlightened determination to recall and to record in a meaningful way the heritage of his people for the benefit of present and future generations. Jackson Beardy died in 1984." (Colleen Cutschall: Jaxon Beerdi - Ambassador, Alchemist, Artist. In Jackson Beardy A Life's Work. Canadian Cataloging, WAG, 1994. P.21)
American Horse 'Wasechum Taschunka' (1840-1908). 'Wasechum Taschunka' took on the name American Horse following the death of his uncle ate the Battle of Slim Buttes. During the reservation days, he was considered a notable progressive and became a head Oglala spokesman. As an orator and diplomat, he represented his people in numerous negotiations with the federal government. Following the tragedy of Wounded Knee he became the leader of a unified Sioux delegation which traveled to Washington seeking a more equitable treatment for the Sioux. In his later years he traveled with Buffalo Bill and the Wild West Show. (Harbaugh, P., 1982)