Logo remains a lasting legacy for the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Joelle Peters

8/2/2001 12:00:00 AM

Saginaw Chippewa Elder Julius Peters said he had no idea the Tribal logo he designed in the early 1970s would become so widely spread.

"I am honored that the Tribe asked me to use my design for the Tribal logo," said Peters. "It reminds me of two very important people in my life."

The Tribe conducted a contest in which Peters entered and won. The newly designed logo was used on the Tribal float during a Midland parade in 1973. This was the first time the public had seen the logo. Soon after the parade, the logo appeared in all quarters that concerned the Tribe.

"Julius didn't even tell me, I just remember everyone telling me that he submitted a designed logo for the Tribe," stated Tribal member Helen Peters who is married to Julius. "Then, before long, the logo appeared everywhere and on everything."

Peters and his wife have four children and eight grandchildren. Their children are Tribal members Theresa Jackson, Renee Thomas, Julianne Peters and Lance Peters.

"I think that the logo is a real important part of this Tribe," explained Thomas. "When I look at it, it reminds me of the grandparents that I never knew. I realize that they're gone but something that was with them is still here. When people see the logo they know that it is Saginaw Chippewa, and I am proud of that."

In 1994, the Tribal Observer staff asked Peters to tell his story behind the logo."

"The Tribal Observer thought that it was time for the community to know what the logo means," stated Joseph Sowmick, Ojibwe Substance Abuse Services community prevention planner and former public relations director.

The logo and Peters story was published in the March 1994 edition of the Tribal Observer. The information is also in a showcase display at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort along with a photo of the designer and his grandparents.

"After my father told his story, I thought a lot about it," said Julianne Peters. "Now when I look at the logo, I can picture my grandparents dancing in such beautiful regalia."

The logo has been a part of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe for 27 years and is said to continue its journey in the community. The highly visible logo has been reproduced for official purposes such as letterhead and business cards to myriads promotional items including golf balls and water bottles.

"I am proud that my father was the person who designed the Tribal logo," said Theresa Jackson. "It is an honor to be a part of his family."

The logo stands for culture, honesty, love and memories, according to grandson Stephen Jackson. He also stated that he is very proud of his grandfather's achievements.

"It's great," stated Darryl Jackson, Peters' son-in-law about what he thinks of joining the Peters family. "I am honored to be Julius' son-in-law. He's a part of Tribal history."