Nicolas Vincent facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nicolas Vincent Tsawenhohi
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Nicholas Vincent by Edward Chatfield, 1825
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| Born | 11 April 1769 |
| Died | 31 October 1844 |
| Occupation | Grand Chief of the Hurons of Lorette |
| Spouse(s) | Véronique Petit-Étienne, Madeleine Thomas |
| Parent(s) | Louis Vincent Sawantanan, Louise Martin Thodatowan |
Nicolas Vincent (born Ignace-Nicolas) was an important leader of the Huron-Wendat people. He was born on April 11, 1769, and passed away on October 31, 1844.
He was also known by his Huron names, Tsaouenhohoui (meaning “one who plunges things into the water”) and Tsawenhohi (meaning "he who sees clearly"). From 1811 to 1844, he served as the Grand Chief of the Hurons of Lorette. He was the last chief to use the name Tsaouenhohoui.
In 2001, Nicolas Vincent was recognized as a Person of National Historic Significance in Canada. This honor was given because he made the role of Grand Chief very respected and important.
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Life and Leadership
Nicolas Vincent was born to Louis Vincent (Sawantanan) and Louise Martin (Thodatowan). He married Véronique Petit-Étienne, a Huron woman, on November 24, 1794. They had nine children together. Later, on January 22, 1821, he married Madeleine, a Malecite woman.
Becoming a Chief
In 1803, Nicolas Vincent was named War Chief. This was an important leadership role. By 1810, he became the Grand Chief of his people. He held this position for over 30 years.
Protecting Huron Lands
As Grand Chief, Nicolas Vincent worked hard to protect the lands of the Huron-Wendat people. He tried to get back lands that had been taken by settlers and loggers. This was a very important goal for him and his community.
In 1825, his efforts led him to travel all the way to England. He went with other Council Chiefs, André Romain and Stanislas Koska, and the War Chief, Michel Tsiewei.
Meeting the King
While in England, the chiefs met with important government officials. On April 8, 1825, they had a special meeting with King George IV. This was a very rare and significant event.
The London Times, a famous newspaper, reported on the meeting. King George IV gave special medals to the four Huron chiefs.
Nicolas Vincent spoke to the King in French. He thanked the King for his kindness and respect. He said that his people would always be loyal to their "good and great father."
The King promised to help the Huron people. He said he would work to make sure they were happy and well. He then talked with the chiefs for more than 15 minutes.
Speaking to Parliament
A few years later, Nicolas Vincent made history again. He was the first Native person to speak to the members of the Assembly of Lower Canada. This was like speaking to a government parliament.
In 1829, he drew a map called the 'Vincent Plan'. This map showed the hunting lands that the Hurons used. He created it at the request of the government.
Nicolas Vincent passed away on October 31, 1844, in Jeune-Lorette.
Honoring His Legacy
In 2005, a special plaque was approved for his home in Wendake, Quebec. The plaque honors his life and achievements.
It describes him as a "skilful diplomat" and a "shrewd politician." It also says he was known for his deep respect for Aboriginal laws and traditions. He fought for his people's rights and was respected by everyone. His legacy continues to be remembered by the Huron-Wendat people today.
