Walk-in-the-Water facts for kids

Walk-in-the-Water, also known as My-ee-rah, was an important leader of the Huron tribe. He lived around the time of the War of 1812, a major conflict in North America.

Early Life and Role

Walk-in-the-Water was a member of the Wyandotte tribe. His special symbol, or totem, was a turtle. Leaders like him played a big part in guiding their people. They helped make decisions for the tribe.

The War of 1812 Begins

When the War of 1812 started, Walk-in-the-Water wanted to help the American side. He offered his warriors to General William Hull. However, General Hull did not want to use Native American fighters. Because of this, Walk-in-the-Water and his people were forced to join the British forces. They went to Fort Malden, a British fort.

Seeking Neutrality

Even though he was with the British, Walk-in-the-Water tried to keep peace. He worked hard to convince other Native American tribes to stay neutral. This meant he wanted them to avoid picking a side in the war. At a meeting, he gave a speech explaining his actions. Some people who were against him called his speech "American talk." This showed they thought he was secretly on the American side.

Breaking Away

Later, Walk-in-the-Water and his group openly disagreed with Tecumseh and The Prophet. These two were powerful Native American leaders who wanted to unite tribes against the Americans. Walk-in-the-Water decided not to stay with the British forces. He and his warriors left General Henry Proctor near Chatham, Canada.

Battle of the Thames

At the Battle of the Thames, Walk-in-the-Water again offered his help. He had sixty warriors ready to fight. He offered their services to General William Henry Harrison, but with certain conditions. General Harrison did not accept their offer. So, the Huron warriors returned to the Detroit River.