Nancy Ward, a name that resonates with strength, diplomacy, and a profound connection to her people, stands as a towering figure in Cherokee history and the broader narrative of the Southern frontier. Born Nanye-hi, meaning "One Who Goes About," a name bestowed upon her reflecting the reverence for the mythological Spirit People, Nancy Ward emerged as a leader whose influence transcended cultural boundaries and left an enduring legacy. Her life, spanning from approximately 1738 to 1824, was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her people, her efforts to navigate the complex relations between the Cherokee and the encroaching European settlers, and her extraordinary personal qualities.
Nanye-hi entered the world around 1738 in the Cherokee settlement of Chota, located near present-day Fort Loudon, Tennessee. Her lineage was a blend of cultures, reflecting the intermingling that was becoming increasingly common on the frontier. Her father, Fivekiller, was of Cherokee-Delaware descent, while her mother, Tame Deer (sometimes noted as Tame Doe), was the sister of the esteemed Cherokee leader Attakullakulla. This familial connection to Attakullakulla, also known as Catherine, undoubtedly shaped Nanye-hi’s early understanding of leadership and the intricacies of Cherokee politics. She was born into the Wolf Clan, one of the seven prominent clans within the Cherokee Nation, each carrying its own distinct responsibilities and traditions.
In her youth, Nanye-hi was known by the endearing nickname Tsistunagiska, translating to "Wild Rose." This moniker alluded to the delicate and radiant texture of her skin, often likened to the soft petals of a wild rose. This early nickname provides a glimpse into the personal qualities that would later contribute to her legendary status: a captivating presence coupled with an inner strength that would blossom in the face of adversity.
Nanye-hi’s journey into prominence began with her marriage to Kingfisher, a Cherokee man belonging to the Deer Clan. This union marked not only a personal connection but also a deeper integration into the social fabric of the Cherokee Nation. The Deer Clan, like the others, held specific responsibilities and contributed to the overall well-being of the community. It was during a pivotal moment in the Cherokee’s struggle against the Creek that Nanye-hi demonstrated her courage and solidified her place in Cherokee history.
The Battle of Taliwa in 1755 was a fierce clash between the Cherokee and Creek forces. During the battle, Nanye-hi stood alongside her husband, Kingfisher, providing him with essential support as he fired upon the enemy from behind a protective bulwark. Legend recounts that she chewed on the bullets to serrate them, intending to make them more deadly. Tragedy struck when Kingfisher fell in battle. In a display of remarkable bravery and determination, Nanye-hi seized his musket and continued the fight. Her actions were credited by the Cherokee with helping to turn the tide of the battle in their favor, bolstering their spirits and contributing to their victory.
This act of valor did not go unnoticed. In recognition of her extraordinary courage and contribution to the Cherokee Nation, Nanye-hi was bestowed with the prestigious title of Ghighau, also known as Agigau, meaning "Beloved Woman." This was not merely an honorary title but a position of significant authority and influence within Cherokee society. As Ghighau, Nancy Ward held a lifetime voice in the tribal councils, granting her the right to participate in crucial decision-making processes that affected the entire nation. Furthermore, she possessed the power to pardon condemned captives, a testament to her compassionate nature and her role as a protector of life. The Ghighau was responsible for maintaining balance and harmony within the tribe, and Nancy Ward fulfilled this role admirably.
Despite her newfound position of power and the inherent responsibilities it carried, Nancy Ward was not driven by a thirst for conflict or vengeance. Her actions were guided by a deep-seated desire to protect her people and to foster peace whenever possible. This commitment to peace was demonstrated through several actions that put her at odds with some members of her tribe, yet ultimately reflected her long-term vision for the Cherokee’s survival.
On multiple occasions, Nancy Ward risked her standing within the Cherokee Nation to warn European settlers of impending attacks. She secretly alerted the settlers in the Holston and Watauga Valleys of planned raids by pro-British Cherokee factions. These warnings were acts of defiance against those within her own nation who favored a more aggressive approach towards the encroaching settlers. However, Nancy Ward believed that fostering peaceful coexistence was the only viable path for the Cherokee to maintain their lands and their way of life.
During one particularly devastating counterattack by the settlers, Nancy Ward‘s home was spared, likely due to the gratitude of those she had warned. In 1780, she again intervened, this time meeting with the approaching White attackers and imploring them to negotiate peace with the Cherokee chiefs. Despite her earnest pleas, the attackers refused to halt their advance and ultimately defeated the Cherokee forces. This demonstrated the limits of her influence and the growing tensions that threatened to unravel any hope of peaceful resolution.
Throughout the 1780s, Nancy Ward played an active and influential role in peace negotiations between the Cherokee and the United States government. She continually exhorted both sides to pursue friendship and peaceful coexistence, recognizing the devastating consequences of continued conflict. Her "queenly and commanding" presence, as she was often described, commanded respect from both Cherokee and American representatives. While many on both sides viewed her ideas as naive or even dangerous, few could deny her sincerity and unwavering commitment to finding a path towards lasting peace.
As the tide of westward expansion continued and more settlers poured into eastern Tennessee, Nancy Ward‘s optimism regarding the possibility of peaceful coexistence began to wane. In 1817, she advised the Cherokee Council against ceding any more tribal lands to the United States. However, her counsel was rejected, and within a few years, she, along with many other Cherokee people, were forced to relocate away from their ancestral homes. This marked a turning point in her life and a stark reminder of the diminishing power of the Cherokee Nation in the face of relentless encroachment.
In her later years, Nanye-hi married Briant (Bryant) Ward, a White trader, further blurring the lines between the two cultures. Together, they moved to Womankiller Ford on the Ocowee River, where they established a well-known inn. The inn prospered, and she became a wealthy and respected figure in the community. She used her wealth to help her people. The inn became a hub for travelers and a place where Cherokee and European cultures could interact, though the balance of power was clearly shifting.
Nancy Ward passed away in the spring of 1824, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to resonate for generations. She had three children: Catherine, Fivekiller, and Elizabeth. Her life became the subject of numerous legends, celebrating her friendship, beauty, power, and wisdom. Even today, Nancy Ward is remembered with deep affection and reverence by the Cherokee people, who recognize her as a pivotal figure in their history and a symbol of resilience, diplomacy, and unwavering dedication to her nation. Her story continues to inspire and remind us of the importance of seeking peaceful solutions, even in the face of overwhelming odds.