Ostenaco
Cherokee Leader
(1703?
- 1780?)
During
the French and Indian War Ostenaco was a leader of Cherokee warriors
who assisted Virginia military leaders against northern tribes
allied to the French. His leadership provided a much-needed Indian
alliance for the British colonial settlements in much of present
day West Virginia and beyond. Ostenaco led the fight against Ohio
Valley Indians who were allied with the French and attacking settlements
in the areas of the Tygart Valley, Greenbrier River, and North
and South Branches of the Potomac River. With Major Andrew Lewis
he led an expedition against the Shawnee along the Big Sandy River
area that ended in failure but forged a lasting friendship with
Lewis. His allegiance with such Virginia leaders contributed significantly
to the expansion of English-speaking peoples into what is now
West Virginia.
Portrayed by:
Doug Wood
Nitro
304-755-0440
chingway@verizon.net
