Shingwauk had formerly practised the ceremonies of the Meda, or native religion, but resigned from them around 1830.  He was well experienced in the system of native picture-writing and mnemonics.

Shingwauk was born in 1773.  Great things were expected of him when he was a young lad.  They say that when he was 14 or 15 he fasted ten times and, both in conduct and in augury, showed himself to have the qualities of a chief.

Shingwauk and his band were loyal to King George and fought along with the British army in many engagements.  The Chief, being a great warrior, led his Ojibway braves to fight against the Americans alongside Techumseh and General Brock in the War of 1812.  He received a medal from King George III for his participation and acts of bravery during the war.  He was very well known and admired by many people.

Shingwauk had the authority to draw up deeds and perform other legal formall ties.
Therefore his name also appears on other treaties such as the Treaty of St. Mary in 1820.
This treaty was arranged with Governor Cass of Michigan.
 

At left - probably the Robinson-Huron Treaty photo of 1850 showing Chief Shingwauk  (centre) also known as Shingwaukoncewith Chief Nabahnagoojing (right) of the 
Batchewana First Nationand William B. Robinson, Treaty Commisioner (on the left).