On November 20, 1903, the University of Washington football team defeated the University of Nevada, 2-0. What made this seemingly unremarkable game remarkable was the presence of the famous Nez Perce leader, Chief Joseph. According to the paper, Joseph had gone to the game with Professor Edmond B. Meany, and his nephew, Red Thunder. The players ran over to meet him and he responded in his laconic way with a series of "Ughs" at each introduction. Red Thunder produced three cigars and the men puffed away as they watched the game.
When the game was over, this is what Joseph had to say:
"I saw a lot of white men almost fight today. I do not think this is good. This may be all right, but I believe it is not. I feel pleased that Washington won the game. Those men I should think would break their legs and arms, but they did not get mad. I had a good time at the game with my white friends."
At the time of the game, Athletic Field was located at the corner of 13th and Jefferson in Seattle.
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