Sehoy facts for kids

Sehoy, also known as Sehoy I, was an important woman from the 1700s. She was a respected leader, or "matriarch," of the Muscogee Confederacy. Sehoy was a member of the Wind clan.

She started a powerful family line that greatly influenced her nation's history. In early Muscogee society, family connections and property were passed down through the mother's side. This is called matrilineal descent. Because of this, Sehoy's daughters and their children became very important. They helped shape who was part of the tribe.

Many of Sehoy's male descendants later became leaders. They helped make agreements, called treaties, with the United States. They also guided their tribe as chiefs.

Sehoy's Early Life and Family

Sehoy was a Muscogee woman from the Wind clan. She grew up near Fort Toulouse. This fort was built by the French in 1717. It was requested by the Alabama people after a conflict called the Yamasee War (1715-1716).

Some historians believe Sehoy was from the Tuskegee tribal town. Others suggest she might have been Koasati. The Koasati are another Native American group. Researchers have studied old records and language differences to understand her background. Many agree she was likely from Coosada, which means she was Koasati.

Sehoy's Relationships and Children

In 1717, Jean Baptiste Louis DeCourtel Marchand arrived at Fort Toulouse. He became the fort's commander in 1720. Some records suggest Sehoy married Marchand in 1722. This marriage might have followed Muscogee traditions.

Around that time, Sehoy and Marchand had a daughter. She was named Sehoy Marchand, also known as Sehoy II. Their relationship ended later. Marchand continued to serve as commander of the fort until 1723. He returned to the role from 1727 to 1729.

After her relationship with Marchand, Sehoy married Red Shoes. He was a leader of the Koasati people. Sehoy and Red Shoes had a son, also named Red Shoes. They also had another daughter. Sehoy passed away around 1730.

Important Descendants of Sehoy

Sehoy's family line produced many influential people. Here are some of her notable descendants:

• Sehoy Weatherford (1740s–1811): She was an important matriarch like her mother. She influenced how property and family lines were handled among her people. She was also the mother of William Weatherford.
• Alexander McGillivray (1750–1793): He was a key leader who negotiated the first treaty between the United States and the Muscogee Confederacy. He worked with American, British, and Spanish leaders to benefit his people.
• Sophia Durant (around 1752–between 1813 and 1831): She was an interpreter and speaker for her brother, Alexander McGillivray. Three of her children were part of the Red Stick faction during the Muscogee Civil War.
• William Weatherford (1765–1824): A Red Stick leader who led the attack on Fort Mims. He also oversaw the Red Stick defense during the Battle of Holy Ground.
• David Moniac (1802–1836): He was a graduate of West Point. He was the only Native American officer to serve in the Second Seminole War.
• Ward Coachman (1823–1900): He served as the Principal Chief of the Muscogee Nation from 1876 to 1879.