Quonopohit facts for kids

Quonopohit (born around 1636, died 1712) was an important Native American leader. He was also known by other names, like James Quannapowit and James Rumney Marsh. Quonopohit became a leader of the Naumkeag people in what is now northeastern Massachusetts.

He took over this role after Wenepoykin, another leader (called a sachem), passed away in 1684. Wenepoykin had given his lands to Quonopohit.

Quonopohit's Land Agreements

Quonopohit is well-known for making agreements about land in the 1680s. He formally gave parts of these lands to several towns in Massachusetts. This process is called "deeding" land.

Towns Receiving Land

In 1684, he deeded land to the town of Marblehead. Later, in 1686, he made agreements for land with many other towns. These included Lynn, Saugus, Swampscott, Lynnfield, Wakefield, North Reading, and Reading. In 1687, he also deeded land to Salem.

Lake Quannapowitt's Name

Today, a lake in Wakefield, Massachusetts is named after him. It is called Lake Quannapowitt. This shows his lasting connection to the area.