Tomochichi
Tomochichi was a prominent Native American leader, likely born to a Creek father and a Yamasee mother, who originally hailed from the Chattahoochee River area. After being banished by the Creeks, he established the Yamacraw village near Savannah, Georgia. His significance grew with the establishment of the English colony in Georgia in 1733, as he played a crucial role in fostering relations between the Creek people and the new settlers. Alongside Mary Musgrove, he facilitated communication and meetings between the English and the Creek tribes, earning him recognition as an essential diplomatic figure. His influence was further acknowledged when he led a diplomatic delegation of Creeks to England from June to October 1734, where he and his companions were well-received and met King George II. During their visit, Tomochichi emphasized themes of friendship and peace, particularly addressing the Queen as a nurturing figure for all. Throughout his life, he advocated for a strong alliance between the Creek and English peoples, highlighting his diplomatic skills and leadership in navigating complex intercultural relationships.
Subject Terms
Tomochichi
- Born: c. 1650
- Birthplace: Apalachukla, Alabama
- Died: October 15, 1739
- Place of death: Yamacraw, Georgia
Tribal affiliation: Creek
Significance: Tomochichi went to England to plead the cause of American Indians; he inspired much public sympathy for Indian issues
Possibly the son of a Creek father and Yamasee mother, originally from the Chattahoochee River area, Tomochichi was banished by the Creeks and established the village of Yamacraw, near Savannah, Georgia, along with a number of followers. Tomochichi’s importance grew with the arrival of the English in the colony of Georgia in 1733.
James Oglethorpe desired the cooperation of the Creeks in his settlement. Along with Mary Musgrove, Tomochichi forwarded Oglethorpe’s invitation for a meeting to the Upper and Lower Creeks, and with their affirmative response, Tomochichi was regarded by the newly-arrived English as an important connection with their powerful neighbors.
So great was Tomochichi’s importance in the eyes of English and Creek leaders that he was chosen with English and Indian approval to head a diplomatic party of Creeks to England. The visit lasted from June 19 to October 31, 1734. Tomochichi, his wife Senauki, and seven others were welcomed and their visit was a social success. The visiting Indians met King George II at Kensington Palace and made a speech of friendship and peace. Perhaps reflecting the Creeks’ matrilineal society, Tomochichi particularly addressed the Queen as the “common mother and protectress of us and all our children.” To the last, Tomochichi favored a Creek-English alliance.