First Treaty of Buffalo Creek facts for kids

The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek was an important agreement signed on July 8, 1788. This treaty involved a group of land buyers named Phelps and Gorham and the Seneca tribe. Through this agreement, Phelps and Gorham bought the rights to a large area of land in what is now New York State. This land stretched from the Genesee River all the way to a boundary known as the Preemption Line.

The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek

This treaty was one of many agreements made during a time when new settlers were moving into areas that were already home to Native American tribes. Treaties like this one were used to officially transfer land ownership. The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek helped set the stage for how land would be divided and settled in parts of New York.

What is a Treaty?

A treaty is like a formal agreement or a promise made between two or more groups of people, or even between countries. When a treaty is signed, it means all sides agree to follow certain rules or do specific things. In the past, treaties were often used to end wars, set borders, or, as in this case, to buy or sell land. For Native American tribes, treaties were often their way of dealing with new governments and settlers.

Who Were Phelps and Gorham?

Oliver Phelps and Nathaniel Gorham were two businessmen from Massachusetts. They were known as "land speculators." This means they bought large amounts of land, hoping that its value would increase over time. They planned to then sell smaller pieces of this land to individual settlers. In 1788, Phelps and Gorham made a huge purchase from the state of Massachusetts. This purchase gave them the right to buy land directly from Native American tribes in western New York. The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek was their first major step in securing these lands.

The Land Deal

The land involved in the First Treaty of Buffalo Creek was a significant area in western New York. It was located east of the Genesee River and extended to the Preemption Line. This purchase was a key part of Phelps and Gorham's plan to develop and sell land in the region. The Seneca tribe, who had long lived on and used these lands, agreed to the terms of this treaty.

Where is the Genesee River?

The Genesee River is a major river in New York State. It flows north through a beautiful valley and eventually empties into Lake Ontario. For many years, the Genesee River served as an important natural landmark and boundary. It was a vital resource for Native American tribes living in the area, providing water, food, and transportation.

What Was the Preemption Line?

The Preemption Line was an imaginary boundary line drawn across New York State. It was created to settle a dispute between Massachusetts and New York over who owned certain lands. The line basically decided which state had the "preemptive right" – meaning the first right – to buy land from Native American tribes in that area. East of the line, New York had the right. West of the line, Massachusetts (and later its assignees like Phelps and Gorham) had the right. The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek dealt with land that was east of the Genesee River but still within the area where Phelps and Gorham had the right to buy.

Why Was This Treaty Important?

The First Treaty of Buffalo Creek was important because it marked one of the earliest large-scale land transfers in western New York after the American Revolutionary War. It allowed for more European-American settlement in the region. For the Seneca tribe, it was one of many treaties that gradually reduced the amount of land they controlled. This treaty, along with others, shaped the future development and population of New York State.