CHARACTERS

Billy Wells

Wells, an American who had been adopted by the Miami tribe under the name Black Snake, helped organize the evacuation of Ft. Dearborn in August of 1812. He seems to have predicted disaster for that adventure since he painted himself black; a native custom which could be used to signal one's own imminent death. Although reports differ as to which side the escorting Miami fought on, Wells' was killed by opposing Native American forces and his head was cut off. As an acknowledgment of his bravery, Wells' heart was cut out and eaten.