Leschi was part of Spanaway history too. From Dupont to Lakewood, Spanaway (Spanueh), Muck Creek to Lacamas and Eatonville, this entire prairie was part of the Nisqually Tribal resources as well as several other tribes who shared the land for foraging.

Leschi and his brother Quiemuth were chosen to represent the Nisqually band for the presentation of the Medicine Creek Treaty of 1854. Although there were X’s on the treaty, many insist they had refused to sign and walked out of the talks.

In 1855, incidents in Connell’s Prairie, led to the Indian War of 1855-56. After the war, Leschi was captured. His first trial could not reach a guilty verdict, but a second did and Leschi was hung near Steilacoom Lake and Fort Steilacoom Park, February 19, 1858. On December 10, 2004, a special historical court was convened at the Washington State History Museum and Leschi was exonerated.

The walk is hosted by the Nisqually Tribe and the City of Lakewood.

Where: Fort Steilacoom Park, near the Dog Park
When: February 19, 2026
Time: 12 Noon to 2:00 P.M.