Taphow facts for kids

Taphow was an important Native American leader. He was a Munsee sachem in Connecticut. A sachem is a chief or leader among certain Native American groups. Taphow was the son of Ponus and the uncle of Katonah.

Taphow was known as the "Sakimore" (another word for sachem) and a main leader of the Native Americans living in northern New Jersey. He played a big role in signing many land agreements. These agreements were often for lands known as "the lands of Taphow and his relations."

Taphow: A Munsee Leader

Taphow was a respected leader of the Munsee people. The Munsee are a group of the Lenape (also known as Delaware Indians). They lived in areas that are now parts of Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. Leaders like Taphow helped guide their communities. They also represented their people in dealings with others.

Signing Important Land Agreements

Taphow signed several important land agreements, often called "land deeds" or "patents." These were official papers that transferred land ownership. In 1700, he signed an agreement for the Ramapo Tract. The next year, in 1701, he signed for the Kakiat Patent. He also witnessed the sale of the Wawayanda Patent.

These agreements were very important during that time. They showed how land was being divided and claimed. Taphow's wife, Awowas (also known as Wawowus), and his son, Quatowquechuck, also signed some of these land deeds. This shows that land decisions were often a family or community matter.

Taphow's Family and Connections

Taphow came from an important family. His father was Ponus, and his son was Quatowquechuck. He also had two brothers, Onox and Owenoke. His nephews were Katonah and Powahay. These family connections were very important in Native American societies. They helped create strong bonds and leadership roles within the community.