Nancy Ward

Nancy Ward (Nanye-hi), painted by George Catlin (wikipedia.com)

Nancy Ward was born sometime in 1738 into the Wolf Clan of the Cherokee Nation. As a young girl she learned the traditional roles for a woman such as gathering berries, growing food in the garden,learning to cook, and making baskets as well as clothing.

When she was a young woman she married and had two children. At this time there were many battles taking place against other Native American Tribes especially the Creek. During one of these battles her husband was killed. She continued to the fight in his place and led her people to victory. She became a leader in the Cherokee Nation. She was known as a peacemaker and she even spared the life of a captured white woman.

Nancy became a good negotiator and negotiated the first treaty called the Treaty of Hopewell. She blended with the white people and used the name of Nancy Ward. She ran a hotel or inn in Polk County, Tennesse. There is a monument there today that pays tribute to her life.

Nancy died in 1822 but she made the Cherokee tribe what it is today. She demonstrated many characteristics of a hero including bravery, peace, dedication to her people, and caring.