William McDaniels facts for kids

William McDaniels was an important early settler in Breckinridge County, Kentucky. The town of McDaniels was named after him! He arrived in the area in 1779 with other brave pioneers like Captain William Hardin, John Jolly, Christopher Bush, and Sinclair.

William McDaniels and his friend John Bruner traveled to Breckinridge County by flatboat on the Ohio River. They brought their wives, a baby, and their belongings. Their flatboat was tied up near a place called the Falls of Sinking Creek. John and William went to Hardin's Fort to get help, but while they were gone, a small group of Shawnee warriors attacked their flatboat.

During the attack, Mrs. McDaniels tried to escape by jumping into Sinking Creek, but sadly, she drowned. The Shawnee captured Mrs. Bruner, her baby, and another person who was with them. After several months, soldiers from Fort Vincennes were able to rescue Mrs. Bruner, and she returned safely to her husband in Breckinridge County.

The Dangers of Pioneer Life

Life as a pioneer was often very dangerous. Settlers faced many challenges, including attacks from Native American groups who were trying to protect their lands.

How William McDaniels Died

A few years after settling in Breckinridge County, William McDaniels was tragically killed. One afternoon, it was his turn to gather the cattle and bring them back to the fort for the night. He asked his friend, Samuel Spencer, to come with him.

As they were some distance from the fort, Samuel Spencer suddenly shouted a warning, "Indian Dog!" and quickly found cover. However, McDaniels froze where he stood. He was immediately shot by one of the Native Americans they had encountered. Samuel Spencer bravely fought back, killing two Native Americans right away. He used his own gun for one and McDaniels' gun for the other. Then, he started running back towards the fort, reloading his gun as he ran. He managed to kill three more Native Americans who were chasing him.

A search party from Hardin's Fort later found William McDaniels' body. His death was a sad reminder of the risks faced by early settlers.