Little Beard facts for kids

Little Beard or Si-gwa-ah-doh-gwih ("Spear Hanging Down") was an important Seneca chief. He lived during a time of big changes for Native Americans in what is now the United States. Little Beard was involved in the American Revolutionary War and later helped make peace treaties. He passed away in 1806.

Early Life and His Village

Little Beard was a leader of the Seneca people, a Native American group. His village was called Little Beard's Town. It was located in what is now Leicester, in Livingston County, New York. This village was quite large for its time, with about 130 houses. It was near two other Seneca villages.

Role in the American Revolutionary War

During the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783), Little Beard and his people sided with Great Britain. This war was fought between Great Britain and its American colonies. Many Native American groups chose sides, hoping to protect their lands and way of life.

Conflicts During the War

Little Beard was involved in several important events during the war. In 1778, he took part in the Cherry Valley massacre, a conflict in New York. Later, in 1779, American forces launched the Sullivan Expedition. This expedition aimed to destroy Iroquois villages, including Seneca towns, to weaken their support for the British.

During this time, two American scouts, named Boyd and Parker, were captured. Little Beard was present when they died. His village, Little Beard's Town, was later destroyed by the American forces. A woman named Mary Jemison, who lived in the village, had to flee with the Seneca people to safer areas. Today, the town of Cuylerville is built where Little Beard's Town once stood.

Peacemaking and Treaties

After the American Revolutionary War ended, Little Beard accepted the new situation. He continued to live in New York and worked towards peace for his people.

Signing Important Treaties

Little Beard was one of the Seneca chiefs who signed the Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794. This treaty was very important because it set aside special lands, called reservations, for the Iroquois people. These lands were meant to be their permanent homes.

He also signed the Treaty of Big Tree in 1797. This treaty allowed more settlers to move into Western New York. It was a significant agreement that changed the landscape of the region.

Later Life and Legacy

Little Beard continued to be an important figure for his people after the war. He died in 1806 from injuries he received during a fight. His legacy includes his role in the war and his efforts to secure land for the Seneca people through treaties.