Jeffrey Deroine facts for kids
Jeffrey Deroine (pronounced "de-ro-NAY") was an important African American diplomat, trader, and language expert. He lived from 1806 to 1859. Deroine helped the U.S. Government talk to many Native American tribes. These talks helped create important agreements, called treaties, in the Midwest and West of the United States.
Early Life and Freedom
Jeffrey Deroine was born in St. Louis in 1806. His father was a trader with French and Spanish roots. His mother was African American. Jeffrey was born into slavery and belonged to a fur trader named Joseph Robidoux IV.
Jeffrey learned a lot about trading while working for Robidoux. He was very good at learning different Native American languages. When he was 16, Deroine went to court to gain his freedom. He said he was being held as a slave in places where slavery was against the law. After ten years, he lost his case. However, he became free in 1832. His freedom was likely bought by a trader named Andrew S. Hughes or by the Ioway chief Francis White Cloud.
Working as a Diplomat
Once he was free, Deroine started working for Andrew S. Hughes. He became a translator at the Ioway Agency. This was a place where the government met with Native American tribes. Deroine helped with important talks between the Ioway and Omaha tribes.
Because he was so good with languages, the Office of Indian Affairs hired him. This was a government office that dealt with Native American tribes. Even though he had been enslaved, William Clark helped him get the job. Deroine mostly translated for the Ioway people. They trusted him and saw him as a friend.
In 1844, Deroine traveled to Europe. He went with Chief Francis White Cloud and other Ioway people. This trip was arranged by George Catlin, a famous artist. People in Europe were very interested in their visit.
Deroine was known for his clear and smart translations. He made a good impression on important people in Europe. He spoke French as well as English. He also knew many Native American languages. People described him as a kind and intelligent man. He was also seen as honest and loyal.
After returning from Europe, Deroine left his government job. He became a successful farmer in St. Joseph, Missouri. He owned a lot of land and property. Until he passed away, he received money from the government each year. This was a special payment arranged by Chief White Cloud and other Ioway people who were grateful for his help.
Family Life
Jeffrey Deroine was married a few times. By 1834, he may have married the daughter of a trader named Gabriel Vasques. Other records say he married a different woman named Su-See Baskette by 1837. Later in his life, he married his last wife. She had been enslaved, and they had several children together.
