John Otherday
John Otherday was a significant figure in the history of the Sioux during a turbulent period in the 19th century. Originally known for his tumultuous youth marked by heavy drinking and violence, he underwent a transformation after converting to Christianity, marrying a white woman, and settling on the Minnesota Sioux Reservation. His life was characterized by a complex relationship with both his Sioux heritage and the encroaching white settlers. Otherday played a crucial role during various conflicts, notably aiding white settlers during the Spirit Lake Uprising in 1857 and the Dakota War of 1862-1863, where he helped lead settlers to safety and assisted U.S. Army General Henry Hastings Sibley in his efforts against the Sioux. Despite his efforts to bridge divides, he faced hostility, including having his home burned by the Sioux leader Little Crow. After receiving a monetary reward for his services, Otherday attempted to establish a ranch, which ultimately failed. He returned to the reservation, where he was provided a house by the government, and he lived until his death from tuberculosis in 1871. His life reflects the complexities of loyalty, identity, and survival amid the challenges faced by Native Americans during this era.
John Otherday
- Born: 1801
- Birthplace: Swan Lake (now in Minnesota)
- Died: 1871
- Place of death: Sisseton Sioux Reservation, South Dakota
Category: Army scout
Tribal affiliation: Wahpeton Sioux
Significance: As an army scout and protector of whites, Otherday was honored by the U.S. government
As a young man, Otherday was reputedly a heavy drinker and brawler, having killed other Sioux in arguments. After becoming a Christian, he married a white woman, adopted the name John, and settled on the Minnesota Sioux Reservation.
On several occasions, Otherday aided whites. After the Spirit Lake Uprising of 1857, he rescued white female captives and assisted in the search for Sioux raiders. During Little Crow’s uprising of 1862-1863, he led white settlers to safety. In retaliation, Little Crow burned Otherday’s home.
As a U.S. Army scout, Otherday worked for General Henry Hastings Sibley, aiding his search for Little Crow. In reward for his services, he was granted $2,500 by the U.S. government, which was presented during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. With his reward he purchased a ranch, which quickly failed. He thereafter returned to the Sioux reservation, where the U.S. government built him a house. He died in 1871, a victim of tuberculosis.