Frances Johnson facts for kids

Frances Johnson or Gwísgwashãn (died 1934) was the last fluent speaker of the Takelma language. This language belonged to the Takelma people, who lived in what is now Oregon, United States.

Who Was Frances Johnson?

Frances Johnson was a special person because she held the knowledge of an entire language. She was the very last person who could speak the Takelma language easily and completely. This made her incredibly important for understanding the history and culture of her people.

Saving a Language

In 1906, Frances Johnson worked with a language expert named Edward Sapir. He was a linguist, which is someone who studies languages. They worked together to write down and record the Takelma language. This happened while she was living on the Siletz Reservation.

Why Document Languages?

Documenting a language means making detailed records of it. This includes its words, grammar, and how it sounds. By working with Edward Sapir, Frances Johnson helped save the Takelma language. Even though no one speaks it fluently today, her work allows future generations to learn about it. She helped preserve a vital part of her people's heritage. Frances Johnson passed away in 1934.