The life, legacy, and remains of Jim Thorpe are clear and distinct ideas.

During the early-to-mid years of his life, he established himself as the premier American athlete with his awe-inspiring performances in track & field, football, and baseball. During the tumultuous early years of professional football (now one of our nation's favorite pastimes, then a fledging source of entertainment), he united many teams and became the first president of the NFL. Inspirational speeches or events shared with youth and a selfless pursuit of enhanced American Indian rights characterized his later years.

The extraordinary life of Mr. Thorpe created a legacy of greatness, drive, and community which has captivated many over the course of the past century. I believe this legacy, which is permanently attached to his name, is what interested the town leaders of what would become known as Jim Thorpe. When Mr. Thorpe's remains were moved to their current location, his name and his legacy came with them. Since 1954, the town of Jim Thorpe has continuously emulated his legacy and honored his name in countless ways. However, I believe honoring, living by, and benefiting from Jim Thorpe's legacy is not dependent on his body remaining within the town.

For me, what it really comes down to is what did Jim Thorpe, the man, want? He verbally made it clear to his brother, Frank, and his two eldest sons, Carl Phillip and William, that he wanted to be buried on Sac & Fox land. This also appears to be the case given the fact that his family and tribe were two and a half days into a three-day Sac & Fox burial ceremony when his widow, Patsy, forcibly removed his body from the religious ceremony. (More details can be found in the History section of JimThorpeRestInPeace.com.)

It is the Sac & Fox belief, as well as the belief of his sons, that his spirit will not be at peace until he is laid to rest on Sac & Fox land. The sons have expressed nothing but gratitude for the way the town has honored their father's name. Clearly, I am not qualified to debate whether the contract from Patsy Thorpe or NAGPRA takes precedence over any other in a court of law. Instead, I think the town could return the body as part of a magnanimous gesture and still maintain, if not strengthen, the bond between Jim Thorpe, the town, and Jim Thorpe, the man.

The Sac & Fox tribe and the surviving sons of Jim Thorpe have pledged their support if such a resolution is reached.

Rob Wheeler