Bidspirit auction | Chief Chee Dodge Squash Blossom

Chief Chee Dodge Squash Blossom Necklace - Silver pomegranate leaf style squash blossom necklace. Set with 18 turquoise stones from the Santa Rita (Chino) turquoise mine. With hook and eye closure. Unmarked. Circa 1920s, owned by Chief Chee Dodge, potentially the work of Navajo silversmith Very Slim, who was associated with Dodge. Accompanied by papers indicating the following provenance: Chief Chee Dodge to trader Monty Monroe; Monty Monroe to Thomas Trading Post, Sedona; Thomas Trading Post sold to Minnesota Private Collection, 1975. Chee Dodge (1860-1947) was a prominent Navajo leader and the first elected Chairman of the Navajo Tribal Council, serving from 1923 to 1928 and again from 1942 to 1946. Born near Fort Defiance, Arizona, he was bilingual in Navajo and English and served as an interpreter, mediator, and advisor between the U.S. government and the Navajo people. Dodge played a key role in shaping early Navajo governance and promoting education, livestock development, and self-sufficiency among his people. Known for his diplomacy and leadership, he helped establish a foundation for modern Navajo government and remains a respected figure in Navajo history. Length: 24 in. Gross weight: 164.0 g. Condition: Tarnishing throughout, all components set firmly, minimal gapping. Clasp functioning well.