Memeskia facts for kids

Memeskia (born around 1695 – died June 21, 1752), also known as "Old Briton" by the British and "La Demoiselle" by the French, was an important Piankeshaw chief. His name in the Miami-Illinois language, Meemeehšihkia, meant 'dragonfly'. The French called him "La Demoiselle," which means "young lady," perhaps because the dragonfly name suggested he was changeable or "fickle." The British called him "Old Briton" because he was a strong friend to them and preferred their trade goods.

Memeskia was one of the first Native American leaders to challenge the growing power of the French in North America. The French wanted to control the fur trade in the western Great Lakes region and expand their territory, called New France. Memeskia disagreed with their control and their lower prices for furs.

Fighting the French

In 1747, Memeskia, known as Old Briton, led a group of tribes against the French. They successfully attacked Fort Miami at a place called Kekionga. This showed his strong opposition to French power.

Building Pickawillany

In the late 1740s, Memeskia led a group of Piankeshaw, called the Tewightewee, from Indiana. They traveled east along the St. Marys River and settled near the Great Miami River. Here, Memeskia started his village, Pickawillany, in the Ohio Country.

In 1750, Memeskia allowed British traders and settlers from Pennsylvania to set up a trading post and a small fort near Pickawillany. This was a direct challenge to the French, who claimed this land. Pickawillany quickly became a well-known trading spot on the frontier, though it only lasted a short time. The area later grew into the city of Piqua, Ohio.

Attack on Pickawillany

In June 1752, rival tribes who were loyal to France attacked Pickawillany. These tribes included about 240 Odawa and Ojibwe warriors, led by a métis chief named Charles Langlade.

The attackers captured three British traders and killed several of Memeskia's tribesmen. Memeskia himself was killed. His death was a harsh message from the attackers, showing their strong dislike for his friendship with the English.

Aftermath of the Raid

Langlade's raid on Pickawillany forced British traders out of the Ohio Country. This event was one of the key moments that led to the start of the French and Indian War. After the attack, Memeskia's people, the Tewightewee, left the area. This allowed the neighboring Shawnee people to settle there. Memeskia was a Miami Indian.