The Wampanoag Chief Who Made the First Thanksgiving Possible

Massasoit’s Treaty with the Pilgrims

Four months after the Mayflower landed, half the Pilgrims were dead from disease and exposure. Then came salvation in the form of a Native American chief who saw opportunity in alliance.

The meeting on March 22, 1621 between Massasoit and Governor John Carver created the first peace treaty between colonists and Native Americans.

Here are the events commemorated by Cyrus Dallin’s famous statue.

A Common Need

In just four months since landing, 45 of the 102 Pilgrims had died from disease and exposure during their brutal first winter.

On the other hand, disease had killed thousands of Wampanoag people between 1615 and 1619, brought about by European traders. Their rivals, the Narragansett tribe, saw a chance to take over Wampanoag land.

Massasoit saw the Plymouth settlers as possible allies against the Narragansetts because the English had guns and metal weapons that could help in conflicts.

First Contact Through English-Speaking Ambassadors

On March 16, 1621, a man named Samoset walked boldly into Plymouth Colony. He shocked the settlers by greeting them in English, which he learned from fishermen who worked along the coast of Maine.

His friendly arrival broke months of tension between the two groups.

Stephen Hopkins let Samoset stay in his house overnight, and during this visit, Samoset explained who controlled the region and mentioned Massasoit as the main leader.

Before he left, he promised to set up a meeting between Massasoit and the colony’s leaders.

Massasoit’s Arrival at Plymouth

On March 22, 1621, messengers told the colonists that Massasoit waited nearby. Massasoit stayed on a hill overlooking the settlement at first, because this spot let him watch the colony while staying safe. He brought his brother Quadequina and about 60 warriors with him.

Edward Winslow volunteered to meet with Massasoit. Squanto, who spoke perfect English, acted as translator. He had lived in England for several years after being captured and later escaping slavery.

Exchange of Gifts as Diplomatic Protocol

Winslow brought gifts for the Wampanoag leaders. For Massasoit, he carried two knives and a copper chain with a jewel. He also brought Quadequina a knife and jewel to hang from his ear.

These gifts followed Native American customs for starting diplomatic talks. In his speech, Winslow said King James of England wanted friendship. He told Massasoit that Governor John Carver hoped for peaceful trade between them.

Massasoit’s Entry into Plymouth Settlement

After early talks, Massasoit agreed to enter Plymouth with twenty men. They left their bows and arrows behind as a peace gesture.

Captain Myles Standish and William Brewster met Massasoit at the brook marking the edge of town then walked him into the settlement.

Governor John Carver also arrived with trumpet music playing. Several armed men came with him as an honor guard for this important meeting.

The Treaty’s Six Key Provisions

The treaty first stated that neither side would harm the other. If a Wampanoag harmed colonists, Massasoit would send them to Plymouth for punishment. The English agreed to send their offenders to the Wampanoag.

This alliance meant Plymouth would support the Wampanoag against the Narragansett, while gaining protection against other Europeans.

The Treaty’s Revolutionary Disarmament Clause

The treaty included an early form of arms control. Wampanoag visitors agreed to leave their weapons behind when visiting Plymouth, and the settlers won’t bring their guns into the Wampanoag villages.

Feasting to Seal the Agreement

After signing the treaty, Governor Carver ordered food and drinks served, and Massasoit reportedly enjoyed the English alcohol. This March feast happened months before the famous harvest celebration now called “First Thanksgiving.”

Visiting Massasoit’s Statue

You can visit the Massasoit Statue at Cole’s Hill, across from Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

After dropping by the statue, continue on a short path to the Pilgrim Hall Museum at 75 Court Street. The museum displays artifacts from the 1621 treaty period and the original record of the agreement.

The annual Peace Treaty Commemoration takes place every March 22nd, featuring reenactors portraying Massasoit and Governor Carver.

Read More on WhenInYourState.com:

• The British Army’s Worst Day in America Happened Along This 16-Mile Road in Massachusetts
• Thoreau’s 2-Year Quest for a Simple Life Started at Tis Quiet Massachusetts Pond
• Mother Ann Lee’s Shakers Left Behind This Amazing Massachusetts Village You Can Visit Today