Daniel Sullivan (American frontier) facts for kids

Daniel Sullivan was an interesting and important figure in early American history, especially on the frontier. He was an Irish American military scout and guide during the late 1700s, a time when the United States was just beginning to form.

Early Life and Capture

Daniel Sullivan was born around 1754 or 1755 and grew up in Virginia. When he was only about nine years old, he and another boy named Cunningham were captured by a group of Delaware people. The Delaware adopted both boys and raised them along the Muskingum River. This experience meant Daniel grew up learning the ways of the Delaware, which would later be very useful to him.

Return to Settlers

In 1772, when Daniel was a teenager, he and Cunningham traveled with a trading group to Fort Pitt. There, Daniel was recognized by his brother-in-law, Zadock Wright. Wright managed to buy the two boys back. However, Daniel didn't want to leave his Delaware family unless Wright gave him a special beaver hat! Eventually, Daniel did leave and returned to Fort Pitt.

Serving as a Guide

Soon after returning, Daniel Sullivan became a guide during Lord Dunmore's War. He worked for Major John Connolly's Virginia militia company. His brother-in-law, Zadock Wright, was also a part of this company. Daniel's knowledge of the land and the local people made him a valuable guide.

Revolutionary War Scout and Spy

During the American Revolutionary War, Daniel Sullivan used his skills as a scout and a spy for the American side. He pretended to be a boatman working for a trader and traveled to Fort Detroit. While there, he was recognized by a Native American who knew him. He was then arrested by the British Lieutenant-Governor Henry Hamilton.

Hamilton sent Daniel to Quebec, where he was released in December 1777. Daniel returned to Fort Pitt. In 1779, he was arrested again. This time, it was because he was trying to encourage the Delaware people to not follow a recent peace agreement.

Later Life and Death

After being released, Daniel Sullivan moved to Louisville. In 1785, he moved further north to Vincennes. He became a leader of the Vincennes militia. In 1786, he led them in a fight known as the Battle of the Embarras River. Daniel Sullivan was killed in 1790 along the Buffalo Trace.

Legacy

Sullivan County, Indiana is named after Daniel Sullivan, honoring his role in the history of the region.