Nancy Ward, a revered figure of the Cherokee Nation, was married to two men during her lifetime: Tsa-tlo, also known as Kingfisher, and later Bryant Ward.
Nancy Ward's Marriages and Family Life
Nancy Ward, recognized as the Beloved Woman of the Cherokee, had two significant marriages that shaped her personal life and contributed to her family lineage. She was a prominent figure whose actions and decisions played a crucial role in Cherokee society during a period of significant change.
First Marriage: Tsa-tlo (Kingfisher)
Her first marriage was to Tsa-tlo, who was also known by the name Kingfisher. This union was a traditional Cherokee marriage. From this marriage, Nancy Ward had a child named Catherine. Catherine was also known by several other names throughout her life, including Ka-Ti, Walker, Littlefellow, and Hiskyteehee, and she later became known as Fivekiller.
Second Marriage: Bryant Ward
After the passing of Tsa-tlo, Nancy Ward married an Irish trader named Bryant Ward. This cross-cultural marriage brought another child into Nancy Ward's family: a daughter named Betsy Ward. Bryant Ward's influence is notable as it introduced European customs and goods into their household, reflecting the broader interactions between the Cherokee and European settlers of the time.
Summary of Spouses and Children
Here is a summary of Nancy Ward's spouses and her known children, illustrating her family connections:
Relationship | Name | Notes |
---|---|---|
First Spouse | Tsa-tlo | Also known as Kingfisher. |
Child | Catherine (Ka-Ti, Walker, Littlefellow, Hiskyteehee, Fivekiller) | Child from her marriage with Tsa-tlo. |
Second Spouse | Bryant Ward | An Irish trader. |
Child | Betsy Ward | Child from her marriage with Bryant Ward. |
Nancy Ward's lineage also includes her uncle, Attakullakulla, a prominent Cherokee chief. These family connections underscore her important and influential role within the Cherokee community and her status as a "Beloved Woman."