Tyonajanegen facts for kids

Tyonajanegen, whose name means "Two Kettles Together," was a brave Oneida woman. She played an important part in the American Revolutionary War. She is especially remembered for fighting in the Battle of Oriskany on August 6, 1777.

Tyonajanegen: A Revolutionary War Hero

Tyonajanegen was a true hero during the American Revolutionary War. She rode into the Battle of Oriskany on horseback. She fought alongside her husband, Han Yerry, and her son, Cornelius. Tyonajanegen carried two pistols and used them in the fight.

During the battle, her husband, Han Yerry, was hit in the wrist by a musket ball. This made it hard for him to use his gun. Tyonajanegen quickly helped him reload his weapon. After the long battle, she rode her horse to share the news with local rebels and other Native American groups.

A Brave Family in Battle

A newspaper from September 3, 1777, called the Pennsylvania Journal and Weekly Advertiser, wrote about Tyonajanegen and her family. It described how they fought bravely.

The article said: "A friendly Indian, with his wife and son, distinguished themselves remarkably." It mentioned that Han Yerry killed nine enemies. Even after being wounded, he kept fighting with his tomahawk. His son killed two enemies. Tyonajanegen, on horseback, fought with pistols for the entire six-hour battle.

Supporting the Cause

Han Yerry was a main warrior during the Saratoga campaign. Tyonajanegen helped him by carrying important messages for the American rebels. General Horatio Gates recognized her valuable help. He ordered that she receive a special supply for her family as a reward for her services.

Family Life in Oriska

In the 1750s, Tyonajanegen married Han Yerry Tewahangarahken. His name meant "He Who Takes Up the Snow Shoe." He was a chief warrior of the Wolf Clan. The couple helped start a new Oneida village called Oriska. It was located near the mouth of the Oriskany Creek.

A Prosperous Home

Tyonajanegen and Han Yerry had three sons and one daughter. Their family grew and became very successful. Han Yerry became one of the wealthiest Oneida people. By 1777, their farm was large and thriving. They had a frame house, a barn, a wagon, and a sleigh.

They grew many different crops on their farm. They also raised many animals. They had 15 horses, 100 chickens, 60 hogs, six turkeys, six cattle, and two sheep. Tyonajanegen cooked meals in brass and copper kettles. She served guests using pewter plates. Their family often welcomed people from nearby Fort Stanwix and other travelers.

After the Battle

After the Battle of Oriskany, a group of Iroquois warriors who supported the British attacked Oriska. They destroyed the village. Tyonajanegen's family lost their house and all their belongings.

Han Yerry passed away sometime before November 1794. It is believed that Tyonajanegen became blind before she died around 1822.