Norton, John, approximately 1760-

John Norton was the son of a Scottish mother and a Cherokee father, who had joined the British Army; he was probably born and educated in Scotland, and joined the army at a young age. Stationed in Canada, he deserted, and travelled throughout North America, settling with the Grand River nation of Native American tribes. Mohawk Chief Joseph Brant adopted him into the tribe as his nephew, and Norton was given the name Teyoninhokarawen ("Open door"). He became chief after Brant died, and attempted to create solidarity among the tribes. He led a band of Native Americans allied with the British in the War of 1812, figuring prominently in several significant battles and earning the rank of Major. After the war he returned to Scotland, where he published his memoirs, but returned to the Grand River tribes with his wife and son, before travelling west to explore. It is probable he died on this trip, circa 1831. He is remembered for his landmark 1804 translation of the Gospel of St. John into the Mohawk language.

From the description of John Norton (Teyoninhokarawen) letter to My dear friend, 1805 Aug. 17. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 69937171

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