Thomas Davis (chief) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Davis
|
|
---|---|
Born | c. 1755 North America
|
Died | 1837 (aged 81–82) |
Nationality | Mohawk |
Other names | Tehowagherengaraghkwen |
Occupation | War Chief |
Known for | Important Mohawk figure |
Relatives | Joseph Brant (cousin) |
Thomas Davis (born around 1755, died around 1837) was an important Mohawk leader. He was known as a war chief, which means he was a military leader in his community. In the Mohawk language, his name was Tehowagherengaraghkwen.
Contents
Who Was Thomas Davis?
Thomas Davis was a respected figure among the Mohawk people. He lived during a time of big changes in North America. He played a key role in several important events.
His Early Life
We don't know exactly where Thomas Davis was born. But it's likely he was born in what is now upstate New York. This area was the traditional homeland of the Mohawk people.
Fighting for His People
Thomas Davis was a brave warrior. He fought in two major wars. He helped protect his people and their way of life.
The American Revolution
During the American Revolution (1775–1783), Thomas Davis fought alongside the British. He became a war chief, leading Mohawk warriors. After the British lost the war, Davis moved to Upper Canada. This area is now part of Ontario, Canada. He settled there with his cousin, Joseph Brant. Brant was another famous Mohawk leader. Davis built a farm near what is now Brantford, Ontario. This area became known as the Six Nations reserve.
The War of 1812
Years later, another war broke out. This was the War of 1812 (1812–1815). Thomas Davis again fought on the British side. He continued to show his leadership and bravery.
A Leader in Faith
Besides being a military leader, Thomas Davis also became a leader in his community's religious life.
Spreading the Word
Before 1820, Thomas Davis became a Christian. He was baptized into the Anglican Church. There weren't many missionaries or priests nearby. So, Davis started holding prayer meetings at his farm. He would blow a horn to call local Mohawks to prayer. He read from the Bible and the Church of England prayer book.
Around 1823, Methodist preachers started visiting his community. Davis welcomed them. His farm became a center for religious gatherings. This area even became known as Davisville. By the time Thomas Davis passed away, many Mohawks in the area had become Methodists.