Description
A collection of material related to the
life and work of Ely Samuel Parker, Native American representative and lawyer.
Background
Ely Samuel Parker (1828-1895) was a Seneca Indian born on the Tonawanda Reservation in
western New York; he was known as Do-Ne-Ho-Ga-Wa and was Seneca sachem of the Six Nations.
At the age of 19 he served as a representative of his people to Washington, D.C.,
championing their cause against removal to the west. He studied law and became a lawyer;
during the Civil War he became Ulysses S. Grant's military secretary and for meritorious
service won the brevet appointment of Brigadier-General. From 1869 to 1871 Parker was
Commissioner of Indian Affairs. In later years Parker ventured into business and held
positions on the New York Police Department. He died on August 30, 1895 in Fairfield,
Connecticut. Nicholson Henry Parker (1824-1892) was Ely S. Parker's brother, and as a young
man was well known as a lecturer on Native American tribal history and customs. He was
greatly interested in the Native American's fight against expulsion from their reservations;
for many years he worked as an United States interpreter.
Extent
2.3 Linear Feet
(2 boxes, 2 volumes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.