Andrew Montour
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Andrew Montour (c. 1710 – 1772), also known as Sattelihu, Eghnisara,[2] and Henry,[note 1] was an important mixed interpreter and negotiator in the Virginia and Pennsylvania backcountry in the latter half of the 18th century. He was of Oneida and Algonquin ancestry, with a French grandfather. Historian James Merrell estimated his birth year as 1720.[3] Likely born in his mother's village of Otstonwakin (near current Montoursville, Pennsylvania), he later led the village in the 18th century before settling further west.
Andrew Montour | |
---|---|
Sattelihu, Eghnisara[1] | |
Mixed (Oneida and Algonkin/French) leader | |
Personal details | |
Born | c. 1710 Otstonwakin near what became Montoursville, Pennsylvania |
Died | January 20, 1772 |
Spouse | Sally Ainse |
Children | John Montour, born 1744; Nicholas Montour, born 1756 |
Parent(s) | Madame Montour, Carondawanna |
Known for | interpreter and negotiator, who spoke French, English, Delaware, Shawnee, and an Iroquois language |
Nickname(s) | Henry, Andre |
Montour was commissioned as a captain in 1754 by Pennsylvania officials during the French and Indian War. He also commanded raiding parties in Ohio in 1764 during Pontiac's War (1763–1766) at the behest of Sir William Johnson, British superintendent of Indian Affairs. His son John Montour later became recognized as an interpreter and negotiator, serving with rebel forces during the American Revolutionary War.