Squantz facts for kids

Chief Squantz was an important leader of the Schaghticoke tribe who lived a long time ago, until 1724. He is remembered for bravely refusing to sell the land where the towns of Sherman, Connecticut, and New Fairfield, Connecticut, are today.

This land was wanted by a group of twelve colonists from Fairfield. These colonists were called "The Proprietors," and they were looking for land to start a new colonial town.

Chief Squantz passed away during the winter of 1724–25. After his death, his four sons, who were his heirs (meaning they inherited his position and rights), also refused to sell the land when The Proprietors came back in the spring of 1725. The land was eventually sold in 1729 for about $300, which was a lot of money back then.

Who Was Chief Squantz?

Chief Squantz was a respected leader of the Schaghticoke people. The Schaghticoke are a Native American tribe who have lived in the area that is now Connecticut for many centuries. As a chief, Squantz was responsible for making important decisions for his community, including protecting their land and way of life.

Protecting Tribal Lands

During the 17th and 18th centuries, European colonists were moving into Native American territories. They often wanted to buy or take land for new settlements. Chief Squantz understood how important their ancestral lands were to his people. He believed the land was not just something to be bought and sold. It was a vital part of their culture, history, and survival. His refusal to sell showed his strong commitment to his tribe.

The Role of The Proprietors

The "Proprietors" were a group of people, usually wealthy colonists, who were given permission by the colonial government to buy and sell large areas of land. Their goal was to divide this land into smaller plots and sell it to other settlers. This process often led to conflicts with Native American tribes who already lived on the land.

Land Sales and Agreements

In the early 1700s, many land deals were happening between Native American tribes and colonists. These agreements were often complex and sometimes unfair. Chief Squantz's decision to not sell the land was a powerful statement. It showed his desire to keep his people's territory safe from colonial expansion. Even after his death, his sons continued his stance for a time, showing their respect for his wishes.

Leadership After Squantz

After Chief Squantz died, other important leaders continued to guide the Native American communities in the region.

Chief Waramaug's Leadership

Chief Waramaug became the sachem (a type of chief or leader) of the Potatuck people in 1725. He took over the leadership role from Chief Squantz. Sachems were very important figures who led their tribes in many ways, including making peace treaties, leading hunts, and protecting their people.

Mauwehu: A Strong Character

One of Chief Squantz's sons was named Mauwehu. He was described by a historian named DeForest as having "something of energy and commanding character." This means Mauwehu was seen as a strong and influential leader, much like his father. He later succeeded Chief Waramaug, continuing the legacy of strong leadership in his family and tribe.

Chief Squantz and his family played a significant role in the history of the Schaghticoke people and the early colonial period in Connecticut. Their story reminds us of the challenges Native American tribes faced and their efforts to protect their heritage and lands.