As a specimen of the folk-lore of our own aborigines none can surpass in interest the story of Hiawatha, the prophet-teacher, son of Mud-jekeewis (the west wind) and Wenonah daughter of Nokomis. He represents the progress of civilization among the North American Indians. Hiawatha first wrestled with Mondamin (maize), and having subdued it, gave it to man for food. He then taught man navigation; then he subdued Mishe Nahma (the sturgeon), and taught the Indians how to make oil therefrom for winter. His next exploit was against the magician Megissognon, the author of disease and death; having slain this monster, he taught men the science of medicine. He then married Minnehaha (laughing water), and taught man to be the husband of one wife, and the comforts of domestic peace. Lastly, he taught man picture-writing. When the white men came with the gospel, Hiawatha ascended to the kingdom of Ponemah, the land of the hereafter. Among many other accomplishments when Hiawatha put on his moccasins, he could measure a mile at a single stride.

He had moccasins enchanted, Magic moccasins of deer-skin; When he bound them round his ankles At each stride a mile he measured!

- Longfellow, Hiawatha, iv.