Josiah Standish facts for kids

Josiah Standish was an important figure in the early history of the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts. He was born around 1633 in Plymouth and was the son of Captain Myles Standish, a famous leader from the Mayflower. Josiah Standish later moved to Connecticut and passed away on March 19, 1690, in Preston.

A Colonial Captain

Josiah Standish became a Captain in the Plymouth Colony's local army, known as the Militia. The militia was made up of ordinary citizens who trained to protect their communities. Captain Standish played a key role in a major conflict called King Philip's War.

King Philip's War

King Philip's War was a difficult and important conflict that took place between 1675 and 1678. It involved the English colonists and several Native American tribes, including the Wampanoag. The war was named after Metacomet, the leader of the Wampanoag, whom the English called "King Philip."

Tracking Metacomet

During the war, Captain Standish, along with another colonial leader named Captain Benjamin Church, led a group of soldiers. Their mission was to find Metacomet. They tracked the Wampanoag chief to a place called Mt. Hope in Rhode Island. Metacomet was found hiding in a swamp. His death, which occurred there, helped bring an end to the war.

Family Life

Josiah Standish was married twice. His first wife, Mary Dingley, passed away shortly after their marriage in 1656. Around 1660, he married Sarah Allen. Josiah and Sarah had several children together. Their children included Josiah, Mary, Mehitable, Martha, Samuel, Israel, Lois, and Mercy Standish.