Pages

Tuesday 7 June 2016

More than a Rock


When the first settlers arrived in New England (USA) they weren't prepared for the harsh reality of the environment or the locals.  These strangers were welcomed by the chieftain of the Mohegan tribe, Mohomet Weyonomon.  He helped them survive the harsh winters and to repel Indian attacks from other tribes.

The new settlers showed their gratitude by stealing the tribes hunting and planting land. It reached such proportions that in 1735 Mahomomet and three supporters sailed to England to petition King George II for the return of their lands.  While waiting to see the king The Indian chieftain contracted smallpox and died.  He was buried in an unmarked grave. (and as we know the lands were never returned!)

Not forgotten by his descendants the Mohegan tribe requested a proper memorial and ceremony for their past chief.  This stone comes from Mohegan lands and carved with forms that reflect ancient customs.  In the grounds of Southwark Cathedral the stone was unveiled on 2006 by Queen Elizabeth II and and accompnaied by a traditional funeral ceremony conducted by members of the Mohegan tribe.  

9 comments:

Stefan Jansson said...

That is a sad story. But I'm glad the tribe members got the memorial they wanted.

biebkriebels said...

A touching story, now you look at the stone with other eyes.

Anonymous said...

Nice story!

Tanya Breese said...

a very neat memorial and thank you for the interesting story...i have a rock on my post today too! not quite as historical as yours though!

Sharon said...

I heard this little bit of history before but, I had never heard about the ceremony and stone in 2006. Very interesting. I'll have to take a look at this myself next time I'm there.

William Kendall said...

Very poignant, and good that this has been done.

Looks like a spammer is lurking...

RedPat said...

What a story!

Babzy.B said...

very interesting story ! :)

Jack said...

It is an interesting perspective. I like the coiled monument.

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...