Shábona (chief)
Shábona was a prominent chief of the Potawatomi tribe, known for his leadership and diplomatic efforts during a tumultuous period in American history. Born to a Seneca mother and an Ottawa father, possibly related to the famous chief Pontiac, Shábona played a significant role in various conflicts, including Tecumseh's pantribal rebellion in 1807 and the War of 1812, where he allied with the British. Notably, he rescued white families during the Fort Dearborn Massacre in 1812, highlighting his complex relationship with settlers.
As a principal chief, Shábona advocated for peace and worked to maintain neutrality among neighboring tribes during the Winnebago Uprising in 1827. His efforts to protect settlers during the Black Hawk War of 1832 were significant; however, they led to personal tragedy when he was captured by opposing tribes, resulting in the loss of family members. Although he was granted land in Illinois, Shábona and his people ultimately faced forced relocation west of the Mississippi River. In recognition of his contributions, some settlers purchased a farm for him near Seneca, Illinois, where he spent the remainder of his life.
Shábona (chief)
Category: Tribal chief
Tribal affiliation: Potawatomi
Significance: Initially a loyal follower of Tecumseh, Shábona advocated peace and accommodation with whites following the War of 1812
Shábona’s mother was a Seneca and his father an Ottawa who may have been Pontiac’s nephew. Traveling throughout Illinois in 1807, Shábona recruited tribes for Tecumseh’s pantribal rebellion. During the War of 1812, Shábona supported the British, fighting with Tecumseh at the Battle of the Thames, 1813. In 1812, he rescued some white families at the Fort Dearborn Massacre.
Succeeding his wife’s father as principal chief for the Potawatomis, Shábona thereafter advocated peace, becoming a federal ally. In 1827, he persuaded most Winnebagos to remain neutral during the Winnebago Uprising, led by Red Bird. Accused of spying for the federal government, he was taken prisoner. During the Black Hawk War of 1832, Shábona warned Chicago settlers of an impending attack. In retaliation, he was captured by Sauks and Foxes who killed his son and nephew.
Granted land in Illinois following the rebellions, his people were nevertheless forced to relocate west of the Mississippi River. His land was sold at auction. Some grateful settlers bought Shábona a farm near Seneca, Illinois, where he lived for the rest of his life.