Canajoharie facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Canajoharie
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Village
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 Canajoharie
Location in New York
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| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
Canajoharie was once a very important town for the Mohawk people. The Mohawk are a Native American nation, part of the larger Iroquois Confederacy. In the 1700s, Canajoharie was one of their two main towns. It was also known as the "Upper Castle."
This historic community stretched for about a mile and a half. It was located along the southern bank of the Mohawk River in what is now New York. The town started near a village called Dekanohage and went west towards what is now Fort Plain, New York.
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A Special Place for the Mohawk People
Today, the area where the old Mohawk town stood is called the Mohawk Upper Castle Historic District. This district is a very special place. It has been named a National Historic Landmark. This means it is recognized as a place of great historical importance to the United States. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Indian Castle Church
One important building in this historic district is the Indian Castle Church. This church was built in 1769 for the Mohawk people. A British official named Sir William Johnson helped build it. He was the Superintendent of Indian Affairs, meaning he worked with Native American nations for the British government.
The land for the church was given by two important Mohawk leaders: Molly Brant and her brother Joseph Brant. Molly Brant was Sir William Johnson's partner, and both she and Joseph Brant were very influential among the Mohawk.
Important Leaders and Their Home
For a time, Canajoharie was home to several famous Mohawk leaders. One was Hendrick Theyanoguin (1692–1755), a respected chief and warrior. The Brants, Molly and Joseph, also lived here. Their leadership was very important during a time of big changes for Native Americans in the region.
What Does the Name Mean?
The name Canajoharie has an interesting meaning. According to Joseph Brant, it means "a kettle stuck on a pole." However, a more modern understanding translates it as "a washed kettle" or "the pot that washes itself."
This name refers to something natural in the area. There is a large, circular pothole in the Canajoharie Creek. This creek flows into the Mohawk River. The name describes the way the water swirls around in this pothole, making it look like a "washing pot."
Canajoharie Today
The modern village of Canajoharie, New York exists today. It was settled by European Americans a few miles to the east of where the historic Mohawk village once stood.
