John Cameron (chief) facts for kids

John Cameron (born May 1764 – died September 28, 1828) was an important Indigenous leader. He was a chief of the Mississauga Ojibwa people. His Indigenous names were Ogimauh-binaessih, meaning "chief little-bird," and Wageezhegome, meaning "Who Possesses the Day." He was also a farmer and a member of the eagle doodem. John Cameron was born near the Credit River in Ontario and passed away at the Credit Mission in Upper Canada.

John Cameron's Early Life

Growing Up Near the Credit River

John Cameron was born in May 1764 by the Credit River in Ontario. As he grew up, he saw many big changes happening for his people. Thousands of new settlers arrived in what is now southern Ontario after the American Revolution in 1776.

Changes and Challenges

Because of these new settlers, the Mississauga people had to sign treaties. Through these agreements, they gave up much of their traditional hunting and fishing lands. Being close to the settlers also brought new illnesses, like smallpox, which the Indigenous people had never faced before and had no protection against.

As life changed for the Mississaugas, young Wageezhegome learned some English and basic farming skills. He went to a school and took the name John Cameron. After his teacher, David Ramsay, passed away, Cameron decided to settle and farm along the Credit River.

Becoming a Chief

Leading His People

In August 1805, John Cameron became one of his band's two chiefs, taking over from his father. It was likely around this time that he also received the name Ogimauh-binaessih. From then on, he used all three of his names. As a chief, he signed several important treaties that affected his people's lands.

New Beliefs and Family Life

When Peter Jones, a missionary, arrived at the Credit River in late 1824, John Cameron gave him his full support. Cameron became a Christian in 1824. He moved to Brantford for a short time in 1824 and then returned to the Credit River in 1826.

Shortly before Peter Jones arrived, Chief Cameron, who was about 60 years old, married Wechikiwekapawiqua. She was later baptized as Catharine Cameron and was Peter Jones's 17-year-old half-sister.

At the Credit Mission, John Cameron's daughter, Charlotte, was born on February 24, 1828. Later that year, he suddenly became ill and passed away on September 30, 1828. Peter Jones, who became chief the next year, remembered that John Cameron had said just before he died, "I thank the Lord that I have lived to see all my people serve the Great Spirit."