Peracuta facts for kids

Peracuta (sometimes called Perecuta or Perecute) was an important leader of the Appomattoc tribe in the 1600s. The Appomattoc people lived in what is now the state of Virginia. Peracuta worked with the English settlers from the colony of Virginia. He tried to bring back the strength of earlier tribal leaders. He also worked hard to keep peace and unity among his people.

A Strong Leader

Peracuta was a brave and respected warrior in the Appomattoc tribe. By the 1660s, he became the tribe's new leader, known as a weroance. A weroance was like a chief or king for the Native American tribes in that area.

The Batts and Fallam Expedition

In September 1671, Peracuta helped explorers Thomas Batts and Robert Fallam. He guided them on an important journey called the "Batts and Fallam Expedition." This trip explored parts of what is now West Virginia. The explorers were looking for a way to find the "South Sea" (the Pacific Ocean). They were also trying to find out if the water behind the mountains flowed towards it. The Virginia House of Burgesses had approved this expedition.

The group discovered a river they called Woods River. Today, we know it as the New River. Before they left, the explorers claimed the river for King Charles II of England. Batts and Fallam marked trees with symbols for Governor William Berkeley. They also marked trees for Abraham Wood, who helped pay for the trip. They even marked a tree to honor their trusted guide, Peracuta.

King of the Appomattoc

In 1675, the Appomattoc tribe asked for special permission. They wanted Peracuta to be allowed to plant crops and clear land. This land was not being used by the British colonists. The request was approved. The Virginia General Assembly and Governor Berkeley officially recognized Peracuta. They called him "King of the Appomattoc."

Difficult Times

Peracuta's time as a leader was very challenging for Native peoples. In 1676, the Appomattoc village was destroyed during a conflict called Bacon's Rebellion. This was a very tough time for the Appomattoc people. Also in 1676, a difficult practice of forcing Native people into labor started again in the Virginia colony. This caused a lot of suffering.

Peracuta was at the signing ceremony for the Treaty of 1677. This treaty was also known as the "Treaty Between Virginia and the Indians." At first, he was not allowed to sign it. This was because some Appomattoc tribe members were accused of certain actions. However, the British Crown later allowed Peracuta to sign an addition to the treaty in 1680.

Death

Records show that Peracuta passed away around 1690. A new weroance took over leadership of the Appomattoc tribe by April 1691.