Metallak facts for kids

This New Hampshire historical marker in Stewartstown marks Metallak's burial site.

The Metallak, a special train engine, is named after this important Native American leader.

Metallak (born around 1727, died 1847) was a well-known Native American from the Androscoggin tribe. This group was also called the Arosaguntacook. They were part of the larger Abenaki nation.

The Androscoggin people lived near the Androscoggin and Magalloway rivers. These rivers are located along the northern border of New Hampshire and Maine. They also had a village called St. Francis in Quebec, Canada. Some stories say Metallak was the youngest son of Piel, who was the chief of their tribe.

Who Was Metallak?

Metallak was a hunter, trapper, and guide. He was very familiar with the lands and rivers of his people. Early European settlers in the area knew him well. He was friendly with most of them.

In his later years, Metallak became blind due to accidents. He died in February 1847. People believed he was around 120 years old when he passed away. He died without much money.

Metallak's Lasting Legacy

Metallak's name is still remembered today in many places. You can find Metallak Island in Umbagog Lake and Richardson Lake. There is also Metallak Pond and Metallak Brook.

Two different mountains are named after him: one in Maine and one in New Hampshire. A special train engine at the Mount Washington Cog Railway is also named Metallak. He was even a friend of Governor Enoch Lincoln.

Where Is Metallak Buried?

Metallak is buried in Stewartstown, New Hampshire. His gravestone says he was the "last of the Coashaukes." This means he was believed to be the last surviving member of his specific group.

Along Route 145, there is a New Hampshire historical marker (number 47). This marker points to his nearby burial site. It describes him as a "Hunter, trapper, fisherman and guide." It also notes he was "well and favorably known by the region's early settlers." The marker calls him "The Lone Indian of the Magalloway." It states he was the last survivor of an Abenaki group living in the Upper Androscoggin area.

Different Ways to Spell His Name

Over time, Metallak's name has been spelled in various ways. Some common spellings include Metalluc, Matalak, Metalak, Mettalak, Metalluk, and Netalluc.