Thomas Buffington facts for kids
Thomas Mitchell Buffington was an important leader of the Cherokee Nation. He was born on October 15, 1855, in a place called Going Snake District. This area was part of the Cherokee Nation, which is now in Adair County, Oklahoma.
His father, Ezekiel Buffington, was born in Georgia and moved to Oklahoma in 1835. His mother was Louisa (Newman) Buffington. Thomas was one of eight children in his family. He married Susie Woodall in 1878, who was a school teacher. After she passed away, he married E. Gray, who was also a teacher in the Cherokee schools.
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Early Life and Political Beginnings
Thomas Buffington grew up in the Cherokee Nation. He became very interested in the politics of his people. He joined a political group known as the Downing party. This group worked to make decisions for the Cherokee Nation.
Serving as a Judge and Senator
In 1889, Thomas Buffington was chosen to be a district judge for the Delaware district. This meant he helped make important legal decisions. However, he soon left this job. In 1891, he was elected to be a senator. Senators help create laws and represent their people.
Becoming Principal Chief
Later in 1891, something important happened. The Principal Chief, Joel B. Mayes, and the Second Chief, Henry Chambers, both passed away. Because Thomas Buffington was the president of the Senate, he became the temporary Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. He served in this role for a short time, from December 14 to December 23, 1891.
Representing the Cherokee Nation
Thomas Buffington was also chosen to go to Washington, D.C. He went there to speak for the Cherokee Nation to the United States Congress. This was a very important job, as he represented the interests of his people.
The Curtis Act of 1898
While in Washington, he supported a law called the Curtis Act of 1898. This law changed how tribal governments worked. It meant that the United States government had more control over the land and people in the territory. It also led to land being divided up among individuals, rather than being held by the tribe as a whole.
Later Political Career
After his time as a delegate, Thomas Buffington continued his public service. He became the mayor of Vinita, a town in Oklahoma.
Serving as Principal Chief Again
In 1899, he left his job as mayor to run for Principal Chief again. He won the election and served as the leader of the Cherokee Nation until 1903. This was his second time serving in this important role.
Mayor of Vinita Once More
After his second term as Principal Chief, Buffington returned to Vinita. He served as the mayor of the town again. He continued in this role until 1917. Thomas Buffington passed away in Vinita, Oklahoma, on February 11, 1938.
