1.
The letters 'eau' in the name Charboneau are pronounced as 'aw' in Cheboygan, Michigan where my Charboneau relatives reside. Toussaint 's name has been spelled variously by historians: Charbono, Shabono, Sharbono, Charboneau, Chaboneau, Charbonneau, Charbonet and Chabonau.

2.
In English using the word squaw is considered an ethnic and sexual slur. Contemporary use of the term is considered inappropriate and it represents the prejudicial mentality of former settlers. However, the term occurs throughout North America in the names of municipalities, townships, rivers, mountains and resorts. In this FS historical, acrostic poem the use of the word is deemed appropriate.

3.
Background: In 1960 my sister 'D' (b. 1942) married into the famous family of Toussaint Charboneau (1767-1843). The squaw referenced in the poem is Sacagawea, one of Toussaint's brightest wives. She helped the Lewis and Clark Expedition in achieving their chartered mission objectives by exploring the Louisiana Territory.

4.
My sister 'D' and I co-authored this poem which contains a number of internal rhymes.
- Lobber (November, 2019)

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