Ely Samuel Parker (1828-1895) was born to a prominent Seneca family. He was a sachem, interpreter, civil engineer, Civil War general, and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. He may be best known for helping to draft the surrender documents at Appomattox Courthouse. At that time, he was both the highest ranking Native American in the Union Army and the Grand Sachem of the Iroquois Confederacy.
Read the recently published biography for youth, then learn more at the websites:
ONE REAL AMERICAN: THE LIFE OF ELY S. PARKER by Joseph Bruchac tells to story of a 19th century Native American who made significant contributions in both tribal and federal government. The author weaves historical photographs and other primary resources into this well-researched narrative. Through short, engaging chapters, readers learn about Parker’s challenges and accomplishments. The back matter includes a useful timeline.
ONE REAL AMERICAN from the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Historic Site is a video featuring storyteller and author Joseph Bruchac who shares insights into Ely Parker’s life as well as Parker’s relationship with Grant.
To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/sP7_M1pHWbc.
ELY PARKER: A REAL AMERICAN from the Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park website provides links to primary sources associated with Parker including sketches, letters, and books.
To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/2NLSmfi.
ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.
