Arrohattoc facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| Now extinct | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Eastern Virginia | |
| Languages | |
| Powhatan (historical) | |
| Religion | |
| Native | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Pamunkey, Patawomeck, Chickahominy, and other Algonquian peoples |
The Arrohattoc (sometimes spelled Arrohateck) was a Native American tribe. They lived in what is now Henrico County, Virginia, in the United States. Their leader was a chief named Ashuaquid. This tribe was part of a larger group called the Powhatan Confederacy. Their main village was located along the James River. Today, that spot is where Henrico, Virginia is found.
Early Encounters with Europeans
In 1607, the Arrohattoc tribe met some European explorers. These explorers included Christopher Newport and John Smith. They were part of the Virginia Company of London. The Arrohattocs gave them a friendly welcome. This warm greeting continued as the explorers traveled up the James River. They visited another village led by Powhatan's son, Parahunt. The Arrohattoc tribe even helped the new settlers. They protected the settlers' fort when other tribes attacked it later that year.
Changing Relationships and Decline
As time went on, the friendship between the Arrohattocs and the English settlers changed. By 1609, the tribe no longer wanted to trade with the settlers. The Arrohattoc population began to shrink. The tribe became smaller and weaker. The last time they were mentioned was in a report from 1610. This report was written by a visitor named William Strachey. By 1611, the Arrohattoc village was empty. Sir Thomas Dale found it deserted. He then used the land to build a new settlement called Henricus. Sadly, the Arrohattoc tribe eventually died out.
