Oneida Topics – Page 2 of 2

Treaty of January 9, 1789 – Six Nations

On January 9, 1789, a treaty was established at Fort Harmar between Arthur St. Clair and the Six Nations, reaffirming peace and defining territorial boundaries. The treaty confirmed a boundary line that ceded lands west of it to the United States while securing lands to the east for the Six Nations, alongside a provision for peace and mutual protection. It further ensured that the Oneida and Tuscarora nations retained their territories and addressed matters of justice for crimes committed across the boundary.

Oneida Indian Chiefs and Leaders

Peter Otsiquette, an educated Oneida chief, signed the treaty of 1788 and was part of the 1792 delegation to Philadelphia, where he died and was honored. Oneyana, also known as Beech Tree, was another significant chief at the treaties of 1785 and 1788, influential until his probable death before 1795. Scarouady, or Half-King, emerged in the mid-18th century as a prominent leader, advocating for peace and supporting English colonists while opposing the French, noted for his oratory skills at various conferences.

Oneida Indian Towns and Villages

Oneida was among the first notable towns of the Oneida people, originally established by the Wolf clan. Historical accounts, such as those by Arent Van Curler in 1634, describe its fortification with palisades and numerous lodges, indicating a thriving community engaged in trade and agriculture. The town’s site shifted over time, with notable observations by travelers highlighting changes in population and structure. Ultimately, the Oneida settled across various locations, including present-day Oneida, New York, and had significant interaction with European settlers.

Oneida Tribe

The Oneida, part of the Iroquois Confederation, originally inhabited areas south of Oneida Lake, New York. They were known for their three clans: Turtle, Wolf, and Bear, and held significant political representation within the confederation. Historically, the Oneida were involved in various conflicts, often aligning with or against other tribes and European powers. They maintained a complex governance structure, with women’s roles in leadership. Throughout their history, the Oneida experienced population fluctuations and land loss, ultimately resettling in Wisconsin after selling most of their New York lands.

Skenandoah’s Grave, Hamilton College, Clinton, New York

The grave of Oneida Chief Skenandoah, located at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, marks the resting place of a significant figure in Iroquois and American history. Skenandoah, known for his alliance with American forces during the Revolutionary War, was a vocal advocate for his people, warning them against the dangers of alcohol and advocating for their rights. He died in 1816 at the age of 110, and his remains were reinterred in 1856 beside his friend, Samuel Kirkland, with a monument dedicated in 1873.

Oneida Tribal Stone, Utica, New York

The Oneida Nation, part of the Iroquois Confederacy, is known as The People of the Upright Stone. Their sacred boulder, the Oneida Stone, followed them during migrations, serving as a guardian. After their relocation to Wisconsin and Canada, the stone was left behind and later moved to Utica, New York, where it became a revered monument. In Hamilton College Cemetery lies the grave of Oneida Chief Skenandoah, alongside Samuel Kirkland, highlighting the deep historical connections between the Oneida people and their land.

Oneida Chief Shikellamy

Guided by Paul Wallace, the Mohawks visited the Susquehanna River Valley, reflecting on the legacy of Chief Shikellamy, an influential Oneida leader and Vice-Gerent of the Six Nations. He resided in Shamokin from 1728 until his death in 1748, advocating for the rights of his people against the harmful trade of liquor. Shikellamy played a crucial role in fostering relations between the Six Nations and Pennsylvania, effectively mediating treaties and alliances that contributed to the stability of colonial interests. His passing marked the end of an era of peace, and he is remembered for his integrity and dedication.

Oneida Stone, An Aboriginal Palladium

The Oneida Stone, a significant boulder in Western New York, symbolizes the Oneida tribe’s origins and identity, akin to a sacred emblem. This syenite boulder, imbedded in the soil, served as a central gathering place for the tribe’s sachems and warriors, representing their unity and history. It witnessed their councils and battles, embodying their collective nationality. Today, while the Oneida people have largely transitioned to agriculture and modern society, the stone remains a monumental testament to their enduring legacy and the profound changes brought by civilization.

Valley of the Genesee

The Genesee Valley, once a favored territory for the Indigenous peoples, featured a rich landscape of fertile flats bordered by gradually rising hills. These lands, abundant in natural resources, were home to numerous Indian villages. However, as European settlers encroached, they sought to purchase lands from the native inhabitants, often with little understanding of their value to the Indian way of life. The ensuing treaties, such as the one convened at Big Tree in 1797, highlighted the cultural disconnect and the complexities surrounding land ownership and rights between the two groups.

The Iroquois or Six Nations

The Six Nations, or Iroquois, were a formidable confederacy of five original tribes—the Mohawks, Oneidas, Cayugas, Onondagas, and Senecas—later incorporating the Tuscaroras. Known for their military prowess, they dominated the northeastern landscape, instilling fear in neighboring tribes and European settlers alike. Their democratic structure, with council meetings respecting minority voices, distinguished them from other tribes. Renowned for skilled orators like Logan and Red Jacket, the Iroquois played pivotal roles in early American conflicts, navigating complex alliances during the Revolutionary War while preserving their cultural identity.

1838 Oneida Indian Census

A historical census record from Green Bay, Wisconsin Territory, documents the Oneida Indians’ Orchard Party in November 1838. Certified by Chiefs and Head Men and taken by U.S. Commissioner H. S. Baird, it lists 206 people in the Orchard Party and confirms a total population of 654 across both bands.

Oneida and Cayuga join the Iroquois Confederacy

The Oneida and Cayuga tribes, younger members of the Iroquois Confederacy, were compelled to join the alliance, described by Zinzendorf as the “children” of the elder tribes. The Mohawks, considered the most warlike and first among the confederacy, held significant leadership roles, supplying the war captain. The Iroquois political structure, though simple, effectively balanced individual liberty with communal interests, relying on a council of sachems to make decisions. Their councils facilitated participation from all nations, emphasizing persuasion and oratory in governance without formal written laws.

Hiawatha Speaks to the Tribes

Hiawatha, after regaining his composure, proposed a one-day postponement of the council to reflect on discussions regarding unity among the tribes against northern foes. He emphasized the necessity of cooperation for mutual safety, urging the five major nations to unite for strength. Hiawatha bestowed numerous blessings on the tribes, including agricultural knowledge, and established an enduring league for protection. Concluding his mission, he warned against admitting outsiders to their councils and departed, ascending in a canoe to the heavens amid celestial music.

Taounyawatha – Deity of the Forest

Taounyawatha, the Iroquois deity of the forests, descended from the clouds to assist humanity by clearing streams and teaching agriculture. He became Hiawatha, an esteemed figure among the Onondaga, known for his wisdom and counsel. In response to a devastating enemy invasion, Hiawatha called a grand council to unite the tribes. During the assembly, a giant bird tragically killed his daughter, leading to widespread mourning and the adoption of heron plumes as a warrior symbol. Hiawatha’s profound sorrow marked a pivotal moment for his people.

Middlesex County Ontario Tribal Histories

The Mohawks, a key tribe of the Six Nations, supported the British during the American Revolution and settled in Canada post-war. Led by Joseph Brant, they originally resided at Grand River. The Oneidas, after ceding land in New York, migrated to Canada, establishing a reservation in Delaware Township. The Munceys, initially from Pennsylvania, fought for the British and settled on Grand River. Additionally, the Otchipwas, a branch of the Algonquin, emerged in the Upper Lake region, maintaining a rich cultural history and a presence in various educational and agricultural endeavors.

Oneida Indian Bands, Gens and Clans

Many tribes, including the Oneida, are composed of sub-groups such as bands, gens, and clans, though much remains unknown about them. The First Christian Party, a division of the Oneida during their relocation to Green Bay, Wisconsin, highlights such divisions. Documented in U.S. Indian Treaties from 1828, this group offers a glimpse into the complex social structure and historical context of the Oneida people.