Hathawekela facts for kids
The Hathawekela (also spelled Oawikila, Thaawikila, Thawegila) were one of the five main groups, or "divisions," of the Shawnee people. The Shawnee are a Native American tribe. In the 1700s, these five divisions worked together to form the larger Shawnee tribe.
The other four Shawnee divisions were the Chalahgawtha, Mekoche, Kispoko, and Pekowi. Each of these division names could be spelled in many different ways. The Hathawekela were special because, traditionally, the main leaders of the Shawnee tribe came from their division.
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Who Were the Hathawekela?
The Hathawekela were a very important part of the Shawnee nation. They were seen as the "elder brothers" among the Shawnee. This means they believed they were the first group created within the tribe.
This idea of being the "elder brothers" showed their special role. It also explained why their division often provided the main leaders for the entire Shawnee tribe.
A Journey Through History
The Hathawekela, like other Shawnee groups, moved around a lot. This was common for many Native American tribes. They often followed food sources or found new places to live.
Early Homes and Migrations
Historians believe the Shawnee originally lived north of the Cumberland River Valley. This area is now in parts of Kentucky and Tennessee. They moved to this valley not long before European settlers arrived.
Around 1674, a part of the Hathawekela settled near the Savannah River. This river is in what is now South Carolina. In 1681, they helped the new South Carolina colony. They helped by moving another tribe, the Westo, away from the middle Savannah River area.
Moving North and New Settlements
Later, around 1697, the Hathawekela moved again. They traveled north from the South with other Shawnee groups. They settled in parts of Pennsylvania. Some lived near the Susquehanna River and others near the Allegheny River.
They were mentioned in records from Pennsylvania in 1731. It is thought that the town of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, might even get its name from the Hathawekela.
Important Leaders
Over time, different leaders emerged from the Hathawekela division. One well-known leader was Black Bob. His group was a part of the Hathawekela division. Leaders like Black Bob helped guide their people through many changes and challenges.
