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What Indian Chief Was Murdered at Fort Randolph?

Published in Native American History 2 mins read

Cornstalk, a distinguished Shawnee leader, was tragically murdered at Fort Randolph on November 10, 1777.

The Murder of Cornstalk

Cornstalk, known for his efforts in diplomacy and seeking peace between Native American tribes and American settlers, met a violent end while imprisoned at Fort Randolph. This significant frontier outpost was located at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers in what is now Point Pleasant, West Virginia.

Cornstalk, along with other Shawnee delegates, had visited Fort Randolph under a flag of truce to discuss the Shawnee's neutrality during the American Revolutionary War. Despite these peaceful intentions, the volatile atmosphere on the frontier led to a tragic outcome. Following an incident where a militiaman was killed outside the fort, vengeful soldiers retaliated by storming the quarters where Cornstalk and his companions were held, murdering them while they were unarmed and imprisoned.

This act of violence, a blatant violation of diplomatic protocols, escalated tensions and contributed to further conflict on the Ohio Valley frontier. Cornstalk's legacy is remembered for his leadership and the unfortunate circumstances of his death.

Key Details of Cornstalk's Death

Aspect Detail
Name Cornstalk
Nationality Shawnee
Date of Death November 10, 1777
Location Fort Randolph, Virginia (now West Virginia)
Cause of Death Murdered while imprisoned
Burial Place Point Pleasant, West Virginia

For more information on Cornstalk's life and historical significance, you can refer to his Wikipedia page.