Passaconaway (chief)
Passaconaway was a prominent sachem of the Pennacook Federation during the early phases of European settlement in New England, primarily residing in what is now Concord, New Hampshire. As the principal chief, he led a coalition of Pennacook tribes and exerted influence across southern New England, extending his reach to Mohawk territories and burgeoning British settlements. His leadership was marked by resistance against colonial encroachments, with his warriors occasionally engaging in skirmishes to defend their land. In 1642, following a military incursion by colonial troops into his village, Passaconaway's family was captured, prompting him to negotiate their release and agree to a ceasefire in 1644. His son, Wannalancet, succeeded him as chief. While details about Passaconaway's later life remain unclear, he is believed to have passed away around 1665 or 1666. His legacy continues to be honored, as seen in the naming of Passaconaway Mountain in New Hampshire and various commemorations of his leadership.
Passaconaway (chief)
- Born: c. 1568
- Birthplace: Unknown
- Died: c. 1665
- Place of death: Unknown
Category: Chief
Tribal affiliation: Pennacook
Significance: Passaconaway was the principal Indian leader for the Pennacook tribe in southern New England during early British colonization of the Americas
The leader of the powerful Pennacook Federation during the beginning of the European settlement of New England, Passaconaway was born and lived most of his life at Pennacook, near the site of present-day Concord, New Hampshire.
During the early colonization, Passaconaway was the principal chief of a number of Pennacooks in the area that the colonials called southern New England. His influence spread westward to the fringes of Mohawk Country and southward toward the expanding British settlements. Passaconaway fought British encroachment, and his warriors made occasional small-scale attacks. In 1642, colonial troops moved on his village. Passaconaway was not there at the time, but his wife and son were taken prisoner. He negotiated their release and in 1644 pledged a cessation of hostilities. The son, Wannalancet, was principal chief after Passaconaway.
Passaconaway’s later life is obscure. He died in the mid-1660’s, probably 1665 or 1666.