The FBI is investigating the theft of a tomahawk from the Whitman Mission National Historic Site in southeastern Washington.

The tomahawk was believed to have been used to kill Dr. Marcus Whitman, a 19th century missionary, on November 29, 1847. Cayuse warriors attacked Whitman's camp, blaming him for an outbreak of measles. His wife was also killed. Five Cayuse men were later tried and hanged for the deaths.

The tomahawk was taken from a display case during visiting hours. A tribal historian said there is no way of knowing it had anything to do with the Whitman incident. A similar tomahawk is kept in Oregon.

Get the Story:
FBI investigates theft of ceremonial tomahawk (AP 10/18)

Relevant Links:
Whitman Mission National Historic Site - http://www.nps.gov/whmi