Princess Red Wing facts for kids

Princess Red Wing, also known as Mary E. Congdon, was an important leader and expert on Native American history. She was a member of both the Narragansett and Wampanoag tribes. Born in 1896, she spent her life sharing stories, preserving history, and teaching others about her culture. She even spoke at the United Nations!

Early Life and Family Connections

Princess Red Wing was born Mary E. Glasko on March 21, 1896. Her birthplace was Sprague, Connecticut. Her parents were Walter and Hannah Glasko. Hannah Glasko was a Pokanoket, and Walter Glasko was a Narragansett.

Red Wing shared that her mother named her "Princess Red Wing." This name came from the red-winged blackbird. Her mother wanted her to "fling her mission far with grace." This meant she hoped Red Wing would spread her message widely and beautifully.

Important Ancestors

Princess Red Wing was connected to famous Native American figures.

• One ancestor was Simeon Simons. He fought alongside George Washington.
• Another was Metacomet. He led a major conflict called King Philip's War. This war was against the colonies in New England during the 1670s.

A Life of Leadership and Storytelling

Princess Red Wing dedicated her life to her people. She worked to keep their history and traditions alive. She was a co-founder and editor of The Narragansett Dawn. This was a tribal newspaper published from 1935 to 1936.

Becoming a Squaw Sachem

In 1945, she became "Squaw Sachem" of the New England Council of Chiefs. A Sachem is a leader or chief. This special role allowed her to lead sacred ceremonies and festivals. She was also a well-known storyteller in her community. She made sure the oral traditions of her tribe were remembered.

Founding a Museum

To preserve history even more, she founded the Tomaquag Indian Memorial Museum. This museum is located in Rhode Island. It helps share and protect the history of Native American tribes.

Working with the United Nations

From 1947 to 1970, Princess Red Wing was part of the Speaker's Research Committee. This committee was connected to the United Nations. Her work there showed her deep knowledge of American Indian history.

Awards and Recognition

Princess Red Wing received many honors for her work.

• In 1975, the University of Rhode Island gave her an honorary doctorate. This special degree recognized her work in human affairs.
• In 1978, she was added to the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame. This honor celebrates people who have made great contributions to Rhode Island.

Later Life

Princess Red Wing was married twice. Her first husband was Horace Peek, who passed away in 1927. She then married Daniel Congdon in 1936. He passed away in 1959. Princess Red Wing lived to be 91 years old. She died on December 2, 1987. She was buried in Pascoag, Rhode Island.