Note 91 — Chapter VI

Various interpretations of the meaning of Lenno Lenapi have been given. Lenno means genuine or real, and Lenapi signifies male. The combination denoted a race of eminent antiquity, valor, and wisdom, and may best, perhaps, be rendered in English as “manly men.” The character thus boastfully ascribed to themselves by the Delawares was apparently confirmed by the name “grandfather” applied to them by kindred tribes. Illini is the Illinese equivalent of Lenno. See Schoolcraft, History, Condition and Prospects of the Indian Tribes (Philadelphia, 1851–57), v, p. 1360; vi, p. 177.—Ed.