Norwottuck facts for kids

Norwottuck is an old name from the Algonquian language. It refers to a specific area in what is now Northampton and Hadley, Massachusetts. The name also describes the Algonquian people who lived there long ago. These people were part of a larger group called the Pocumtuck Confederacy. Early English records spelled this name in different ways, like Nonotuck and Nolwotogg.

Who Were the Norwottuck People?

The Norwottuck were a group of Native American people. They were part of the larger Pocumtuck Confederacy. This confederacy was a group of Native American tribes who lived in the Connecticut River Valley. They shared a common language and culture.

Where Did the Norwottuck Live?

The Norwottuck people lived in a specific region of what is now Massachusetts. Historians believe their territory stretched from the "Great Falls" near South Hadley up to Mount Sugarloaf. This area included the land where the towns of Northampton and Hadley are today.

Their Interactions with European Settlers

European settlers began arriving in the Norwottuck territory a long time ago. Records show that in the past, three Norwottuck leaders signed a land deed. Their names were Umpanchla (also known as Womscom), Quonquont (also known as Wompshaw), and Chickwalopp (also known as Wowahillowa). They sold land to John Pynchon, whose father was William Pynchon.

Even after European settlers arrived, the Norwottuck people likely continued to live in the area. They may have been present until around the year 1700. However, their daily lives and presence were not always written down in the settlers' records.

Places Named After the Norwottuck

Many local places and features in Massachusetts are named after the Norwottuck people. This helps to remember their history in the region.

Mount Norwottuck is named for the Norwottuck people.

For example, Mount Norwottuck is a mountain in the area. It was given this name in 1841 by Edward Hitchcock. Before that, it was known as Hilliard Knob. The Norwottuck Rail Trail is another example. This popular walking and biking path is also named after the Norwottuck people.