Charles Blue Jacket facts for kids
Charles Blue Jacket (born 1817 – died 1897) was an important leader of the Shawnee people in Kansas. He was also a Methodist minister. Charles was the grandson of a famous Shawnee Chief named Blue Jacket. His father was George Blue Jacket.
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Early Life and Moving West
Charles Blue Jacket was born near the Huron River in Michigan. This area is now Monroe County, Michigan. Soon after he was born, his family moved to Piqua, Ohio.
In 1833, when Charles was about 16 years old, his family moved again. They settled in Kansas. This move was part of a larger movement of Native American tribes.
Education and Learning
Charles Blue Jacket received a good education for his time. He went to a Quaker School in Piqua, Ohio. Later, he also attended mission schools in Kansas. These schools helped him learn and grow.
A Leader in His Community
Charles Blue Jacket became a respected member of his community. He was a farmer and a businessman. He raised many animals like hogs and cattle.
Helping Others as an Interpreter
Because he was well-educated, Charles could speak both English and Shawnee. He used this skill to help his people. He worked as an interpreter for the United States governor. This meant he helped people from different cultures understand each other.
Blue Jacket's Crossing Ferry
In 1855, Charles and his two brothers started a business. They opened a ferry service on the Wakarusa River in Kansas. This ferry was called Blue Jacket's Crossing. It helped people and goods cross the river.
Serving as Shawnee Chief
From 1861 to 1864, Charles Blue Jacket served as the chief of the Shawnee tribe. This was a very important role. He led his people during a difficult time, which included the American Civil War.
Family During the Civil War
During the Civil War, two of Charles Blue Jacket's sons joined the Union Army. This showed their support for the Union. His family also faced dangers at home. One of his daughters-in-law bravely defended her home from raiders.
Moving to Oklahoma
In 1869, Charles Blue Jacket moved to Oklahoma. Most of the other Shawnee people moved there too. A town in Oklahoma was named Bluejacket, Oklahoma because he settled nearby.
In Bluejacket, Oklahoma, Charles continued to serve his community. He worked as the town's postmaster. He also became the minister of the town's Methodist Church. He dedicated his life to helping his people and his faith.
