Wawaloam facts for kids
Wawaloam (born before 1620, died after 1661) was an important leader of the Narragansett tribe in Rhode Island. She was also known as Wararme. Wawaloam was married to Miantonomi, another powerful Narragansett leader.
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Her Family and Name
Wawaloam's father was Sowheag. He was a leader, or sachem, of either the Wangunk or Nipmuc tribes. Sowheag lived near the Connecticut River and was a friend to Miantonomi. The name "Wawaloam" might mean "flight of a sparrow" in the Nipmuc language.
Important Meetings and Agreements
Wawaloam was involved in several important events during her lifetime. These events helped shape the early history of Rhode Island.
Visiting Governor Winthrop
In 1632, Wawaloam and Miantonomi traveled to Boston, Massachusetts. They visited Governor John Winthrop at his home. This visit showed the good relationship between the Narragansett leaders and the English colonists.
Protecting Providence
In 1638, Wawaloam and Miantonomi worked with Roger Williams. They marched to Hartford with one hundred warriors. Their goal was to talk with the authorities there. They wanted to make sure the town of Providence would be safe.
Signing an Important Document
In June 1661, Wawaloam was in her village of Aspanansuck. This village was located near Exeter Hill. She signed an important paper, called an affidavit. In this document, she swore that the land of Misquamicut was taken from the Pequots. She stated it was given to Socho (Sassawwaw) for his help in the Pequot War of 1637.
Remembering Wawaloam
Wawaloam's legacy is still remembered today in Rhode Island.
Stone Memorial and School
In the late 1800s, a farmer named William M. Bailey lived in Exeter, Rhode Island. He created a special stone memorial for Wawaloam. He used a large boulder to honor her. Later, a school nearby in Exeter was named after her.
Other Places Named After Her
A campground in nearby Richmond, Rhode Island is also named after Wawaloam. There is also a bridge on the South County trail that carries her name. These places help keep her memory alive.
