Escumbuit Escumbuit was an Abenaki warrior of the 17th century, recognized for his valiant resistance against European colonization in the northeastern region of North America. Hailing from the Abenaki tribe, which inhabited parts of present-day New England and eastern Canada, Escumbuit fervently defended his people’s land and culture during a time of intense conflict and displacement. His strategic prowess in warfare, combined with his unwavering determination, marked him as a formidable figure in the resistance against encroaching colonial forces. Escumbuit’s legacy endures as a symbol of indigenous resistance and resilience in the face of adversity, embodying the struggle to protect ancestral lands and preserve a way of life against overwhelming odds. Read Abenaki Warrior: The Life and Times of Chief Escumbuit by Alfred E. Kayworth.
Graylock (c.1670-1750) was a Western Abenaki Missisquoi chief of Woronoco/Pocomtuc ancestry, born near Westfield (MA). Continued English settlement onto Abenaki lands erupted into a new conflict in 1722. While the French, New York colonists, and Iroquois looked on, Abenakis from coastal Maine to Lake Champlain focused raids on the Massachusetts Colony in the conflict known variously as Dummer’s War, Three Years War, Lovewell’s War, The War with the Eastern Indian or Father Rasle’s War. Gray Lock distinguished himself by conducting guerrilla raids into Vermont and western Massachusetts. He consistently eluded his pursuers, and acquired the name Wawanolet (also Wawanolewat, Wawanotewat), meaning “he who fools the others, or puts someone off the track.” Eastern Abenaki groups made peace with Massachusetts in 1725 and 1726, and Abenakis from Canada agreed to peace terms in 1727, but Gray Lock refused to. Although it is not clear whether he was ever personally associated with the mountain, perhaps in tribute to his notoriety the mountain came to bear his name.” Excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Greylock
Louis Cook (1737-1814) was chief and warrior of the Seven Nations. He was the son of a “coloured man & his mother an Indian woman of the Abaniquis tribe.” He served in the Revolutionary War. By the time of the War of 1812, he was too old to fight however his name and reputation carried a lot of weight with the Natives. For more information visit: http://www.wampumchronicles.com/colonellouis.html
Mali Ockette (Abt. 1725-1744 – 1816) also known as Molly Ockett, was a prominent figure among the Abenaki people and the broader Native American communities. A medicine woman and healer, Mali Ockett’s knowledge of herbal remedies, spiritual practices, and traditional healing methods earned her respect and admiration. She came from the Pigwacket tribe and resided in the White Mountains region of what is now New Hampshire and Maine. Her skills not only served her own people but also earned her a reputation for aiding settlers and travelers in need. Mali Ockett’s legacy is a testament to the wisdom of Indigenous healing traditions and the resilience of Native American communities in the face of cultural challenges and societal changes. She was also a talented artist and weaver. More information is available on The History of American Women.
Peter Sabbattis ( Abt. 1751-1859) more commonly referred to as Captain Peter, earned his title during his service in the Revolutionary War. He was a well-known hunter and trapper. Capt. Peter died at the age of 108.
Mitchel Sabbattis (1823- ?) was a well-noted Indian Guide born at St. Francis, who figured intensively into the history of that area. He was well known for his hunting, survival skills, and as well as his knowledge of the forest. In the days when moose were plentiful, he killed 20 of them. The last one was hunted in 1854. Mitchel Sabbattis has been written up in many histories of the Adirondacks.
Bertha Parker Cody (1907 – 1978) was of Abenaki and Seneca heritage. She was the first female Native American archaeologist and ethnologist for the Southwest Museum in Los Angeles. Bertha is known for her groundbreaking work in the field of Native American archaeology. She was the daughter of renowned archaeologist Arthur C. Parker. Her contributions to archaeology were invaluable, as she conducted extensive excavations and research at various Indigenous heritage sites, including the Gypsum Cave in Nevada and the Grand Canyon. Her work helped shed light on the rich history and cultures of Native American communities, and she made significant advancements in dating archaeological materials. She and her husband Espera Oscar di Corti (aka Iron Eyes Cody) were instrumental in the success of the Los Angeles Indian Center. Bertha Parker Cody’s legacy extends beyond her scientific achievements, as she for her role in advocating for Native American rights and cultural preservation, leaving a mark on the field of archaeology and Indigenous activism. Read more.
Frank Longtoe (1871-1949) was “The Masked Marvel,” a well-dressed Pocket Billiards Player, who always wore a mask and was never photographed without his mask. The masked Marvel accepted all challenges including Ralph Greenleaf. In 1931, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, features him as “The Best Player in the World,” winning 1500 out of 1512 games over a three-year period. The masked marvel was known to keep company with Kid Sheehan. Frank later changed his last name to Lanctan.
Frank “Kid” Sheehan (1885 – 1952) was a Bantam, weight Prizefighter. He boxed in 409 bouts from 1900-1925, winning many if not most of his fights in Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, Nova Scotia, and Quebec, often accepting matches as a way to visit his Abenaki relatives.
Doris Minkler (1926-1997) was known as Grandmother Doris Minkler. While she may not be widely recognized outside of Abenaki communities, she was a prominent figure within them, known for her wisdom, teachings, and efforts to pass down ancestral knowledge to younger generations. She was a respected Abenaki Elder and community leader. She dedicated her life to preserving and revitalizing Abenaki culture and traditions. Grandmother Doris Minkler played a vital role in raising awareness about Abenaki heritage and advocating for the rights and recognition of her people. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide those committed to preserving Abenaki culture and identity.
Robert Tessier (1933-1990) served as a Paratrooper in the Korean War earning a Silver Star and Purple Heart. Making his film debut in 1967 in the movie “Glory Stompers,” he was well known throughout his career, as a burly villain with a shaved head and scowl. Robert Tessier quite often played Native American character role on both television and Film. Some of the movies he is remembered for are: “The Deep,” “The Last of the Mohegans,” “The Times” with Charles Bronson, and the “Longest Yard with Burt Reynolds.” He was as talented an Actor as a Stunt Man and even founded a Stunt Troupe.
Jeanne Brink is an Abenaki artist and activist who has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Abenaki culture and heritage. She carries on the rich tradition of Western Abenaki ash splint and sweetgrass fancy basketry as a master basket maker. Since the 1990s, Brink has conducted workshops and programs throughout Vermont and New England, focusing on Western Abenaki storytelling, history, language, culture, dance, games, and contemporary issues. Her commitment to her community and culture extends to her involvement in many organizations, including the Vermont Commission for Native American Affairs, the Lake Champlain Basin Program Cultural Heritage and Recreation Advisory Committee, and the Vermont Folklife Center Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program. Her contributions to safeguarding and sharing Abenaki traditions and knowledge have earned her recognition, including an honorary Ph.D. from Middlebury College. Watch PBS interview on Profile.
Homer St. Francis (1935 – 2001) “was willing to stand up for Abenaki people, land, ancestors, and local recognition at a time when most Vermonters, and many others, refused to acknowledge that the Abenaki even existed. Homer was especially important in forcing his neighbors to recognize the numbers of Abenaki people still living in our traditional, original Abenaki homelands in New England, particularly in Swanton, VT. Many people still mistakenly believe the only remaining Abenakis are those living at the Canadian reserve called Odanak or St. Francs.” Excerpt from “Remembering Chief Homer St. Francis” By Margaret Bruchac. http://www.dciamerica.com/articles/homerstfrancis.html)
Frederick M. Wiseman, Ph.D. is a distinguished Abenaki historian whose life’s work centered around the documentation and preservation of Abenaki culture, history, and language. Born in the mid-20th century, Wiseman’s dedication to his heritage led him to become a vital figure in the revitalization of the Abenaki community. Through research, writings, and advocacy, Fred’s work sheds light on the often overlooked aspects of Abenaki history, dispelling misconceptions and contributing to a more accurate understanding of their rich cultural heritage. Wiseman’s commitment to preserving the Abenaki language, in particular, played a crucial role in ensuring its survival for future generations. His enduring contributions have not only enriched the knowledge of Abenaki history but have also fostered a stronger sense of identity and pride among his people.
Dr. Margaret (Marge) Bruchac Ph.D., is a notable Abenaki scholar, performer, and historical consultant. She is renowned for her multifaceted contributions to Indigenous studies and cultural preservation. As a living link between the past and present, she has breathed life into the character of “Molly Geet, the Indian Doctress,” showcasing the skills and stories of Native healers and storytellers of the 19th century. In academia, Dr. Bruchac serves as an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of Connecticut, with a focus on Indigenous history, ethnobotany, cultural performance, and decolonizing methodologies. Her extensive research and performances not only enrich the understanding of Indigenous heritage but also show her dedication to sharing the stories and knowledge of Native American peoples, past and present. She is also well known for her research on wampum belts. Read about her work On the Wampum Trail.
Joe Bruchac, Ph.D. is a respected Abenaki Elder, a skilled musician, and a storyteller who plays a crucial role in bringing Native American stories and perspectives to a wider audience. His work spans various genres, including children’s literature, young adult novels, and adult literature. He has written numerous books, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, often drawing from his Abenaki heritage and Indigenous themes. He recently received several several Poet Laureate Awards.
Compiled by Vera Sheehan. Originally published on the Elnu Abenaki Tribe website in 2007. Additional content is added periodically.
