Iyannough facts for kids
Iyannough (also spelled Iyanough) was an important Native American leader. He was a sachem, or chief, of the Mattachiest tribe. This tribe was a part of the larger Wampanoag people. They lived in the area now known as Barnstable, in Massachusetts. Several places are named after him, like the town of Hyannis and Iyanough Road.
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Iyannough's Life and Role
Iyannough and his tribe were known for helping and welcoming the early European settlers. These settlers included the Pilgrims who arrived on the Mayflower.
Helping the Pilgrims
In 1621, a young boy named John Billington got lost. He was the son of a Mayflower passenger. Iyannough helped William Bradford, the Pilgrim governor, find the boy. The Pilgrims were very impressed by Iyannough. They described him as friendly, kind, polite, and fair.
His Early Death
Sadly, Iyannough died in 1623 when he was only in his mid-twenties. Before this, the Pilgrims had attacked another Native American tribe. Many Native Americans, including Iyannough, became scared of the colonists. They hid in swamps and on remote islands to stay safe. It is thought that Iyannough died from being out in the cold during this time. After his death, his lands went to his oldest son, Yanno.
Iyannough's Legacy
Iyannough's son, Yanno (also known as John Hyanno), became an important person too. His name appears on many land records on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard. He played a key role in the early days of these communities.
Discovery of His Grave
In the 1900s, a man named Charles Libby was plowing his field. He found what people believe was Iyannough's grave. It was an underground tomb with special baskets, fit for a chief. After he contacted a historical society, the items were removed. A modern marker was placed at the site.
The public used to be able to visit the grave. A sign on Route 6A marks where a public path should start. While Mr. Libby owned the land, people could visit. Now, it is no longer open to the public. A non-profit group called "Tales of Cape Cod" helps take care of the gravesite. It is just north of Route 6A in Barnstable.
Statue in Hyannis
Today, you can see a statue of Iyannough. It stands on the village green in downtown Hyannis. This statue helps remember his important place in history.
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