Wawatam facts for kids
Wawatam (which means little goose) was an important leader of the Odawa people in the 1700s. He lived in the northern part of what is now Michigan, near the shore of Lake Michigan. This area was known to the Odawa as Waganawkezee, meaning it is bent. Wawatam was active around the years 1762 to 1764.
Who Was Chief Wawatam?
His Life Story
Wawatam was likely born near a place called Anamiewatigoing, which is now Cross Village. He became well-known because he saved a British fur trader named Alexander Henry the elder. This happened in June 1763, during a conflict known as Pontiac's Rebellion.
During this time, the Ojibwe people captured Fort Michilimackinac. Alexander Henry was taken as a prisoner. Wawatam, who was a respected leader of his own Odawa family, rescued Henry. He later saved Henry again by hiding him in a cave on nearby Mackinac Island.
For almost a year, from 1763 to 1764, Henry lived with Wawatam's family. He traveled with them as they moved to different places for hunting and fishing. Henry learned a lot about the Odawa way of life. His notes about their hunting and daily practices became very important for understanding Algonquian cultures.
Later, Alexander Henry returned to his own life and became a successful fur trader. He always gave credit to Wawatam for saving his life. Today, the old fort where Wawatam rescued Henry has been rebuilt. It is now a museum where you can learn about history. You can find it near Mackinaw City.
His Lasting Legacy
Chief Wawatam is remembered in several ways. In St. Ignace, Michigan, near the Wawatam Lighthouse, there is a large wooden statue honoring him. This statue is about 6 feet tall and was put up in 2012. It was created by local artists Tom and Sally Paquin.
Other places and things have also been named after him:
- Wawatam Township in Emmet County, Michigan, is named after Chief Wawatam. This township is where Fort Michilimackinac is located.
- The SS Chief Wawatam was a large ship that carried trains. It also helped break ice in the Straits of Mackinac. This ship operated from 1911 to 1984 and was named in his honor.
