Wawyachtonoc facts for kids
The Wawyachtonoc (pronounced Wah-wah-YAHK-toh-nok) were an Algonquian-speaking Native American group. They originally lived in parts of what is now eastern central New York and northwestern Connecticut. Their name can also be spelled Wyachtonok, Wawayachtonoc, or Wyaghtonok.
In 1687, the Wawyachtonoc joined the Mohican Confederacy. They were originally a smaller group connected to the Paugussett people.
Starting in 1740, many Wawyachtonoc people became Christians. This happened because Moravian missionaries shared their faith. During this time, many Wawyachtonoc gathered at Moravian missions. Two main missions were at Shekomeko and Schaghticoke.
In the 1830s, some Wawyachtonoc people were forced to move to Wisconsin. Today, their descendants are part of the Stockbridge–Munsee Community and the Brothertown Indians in Wisconsin. Other Wawyachtonoc descendants stayed in Connecticut. They are now part of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation. This group is recognized by the state of Connecticut.
What Does the Name Wawyachtonoc Mean?
The name Wawyachtonoc describes where these people lived. It is often translated to mean "eddy people." An eddy is a swirling current of water. Another meaning is "people of the curved channel." This name likely refers to their homes near rivers with bends or swirling waters.
Where Did the Wawyachtonoc Live?
The Wawyachtonoc's traditional lands covered a large area. This area includes what we now call Columbia County and Dutchess County in New York. It also included Litchfield County in Connecticut.
Main Wawyachtonoc Villages
The Wawyachtonoc people lived in several important villages. These villages were often located near rivers or lakes. Here are some of their main settlements:
- Weantinock: This was the tribe's most important village. It was located along the Housatonic River. This area is close to where the town of New Milford is today.
- Wechquadnach: This village's name means "wrapped around by the mountain." It was found on the eastern side of Indian Lake in Litchfield County.
- Shekomeko: Meaning "great village," Shekomeko was about two miles south of present-day Pine Plains, NY.
- Weataug: This name means "wigwam place." It was probably located on the Housatonic River. This was between Washining Lake and Canaan, CT, near modern Salisbury.
- Bantam: Another village site in their territory.
- Pomperaug: This was also one of their settlements.
