At the death of Opechancanough, Necotowance
became the new leader of the Powhatans. Articles of peace were
drafted and signed in October. The Treaty of 1646 provided
that:
- Necotowance held the Powhatan territory at the grace of the
Crown, and that future Indian leaders would be appointed or
confirmed by the Governor of the colony. Protection against
foreign powers would be extended to the Powhatans. Tribute
to the crown acknowledging the relationship would come due
each fall in the presentation of twenty beaver pelts.
- Indians would not be molested on the north side of the York
River, however, the English might wish to inhabit the north
bank and if that were to occur the leadership would confer
on the matter.
- Indians would allow the land between the York and James from
the Falls of both to Kecoughtan to be inhabited by the English.
Indians traveling within those confines would be required to
check in at designated points and wear a striped coat and a
badge while within the territory. Indians found within the
territory and without such emblems would be killed.
- Englishmen, having special permission of the Governor, would
be allowed to cut timber and sedge and tend livestock on the
north side of the York. Englishmen caught on the north side
of the river without permission would be tried for the offense.
Temporary intrusions into the territory necessitated by inclement
weather were allowed.
- South of the James River Natives were limited in their movement
between the Blackwater River and English plantations. Similar
restrictions were applied.
- Within the designated limits, Englishmen would be executed
if caught harboring Indians without permission.
- Necotowance and Indians residing to the north were to receive
coats and badges at Fort Royal on the Pamunkey River.
- Indians residing to the south were to receive badges and
trade at Ft. Henry on the Appomattox or Capt. John Flood’s
home.
- Necotowance was obliged to oversee the return of guns, English
prisoners, Negroes, and Indian servants to the English.
- Keeping of Indian servants was limited to children under
twelve years of age, and Indian children under the age of twelve
living among the English were not in violation of the articles
established.
- Coats and badges were to be provided at the Forts or appointed
places, for Indians to use while trading or relaying messages.
next 1677-80 Treaties