Chapter XIV: Front Matter (14)

There are as many distinct Nations among them as there are _Indian_ Towns, (which are like Countrey-Villages in _England_, but not so good Houses) dispers’d throughout the Province: Each Town hath its King (by them term’d _Werowance_) and every forty or fifty Miles distance differs much from its Neighbors in Speech and Disposition: The _Sasquahanocks_, though but few in number, yet much exceed the rest in Valor, and Fidelity to the _English_; the rest being generally of a more Treacherous Spirit, and not so stout, and the number of the _English_ do already exceed all the _Indians_ in the Province.

The _Werowance_ is assisted by Councellors, call’d _Wisoes_, who are commonly of the same Family, and are chosen at the pleasure of the _Werowance_: They have Captains in time of War which they term _Cockorooses_.

Most of their Governments are Monarchical, (except the _Sasquahanocks_, which is a Re-publick) but for succession they have a peculiar Custom, that the Issue of the Males never succeed, but the Issue-Male of the Female succeed in Government, as the surer side: They all submit to, and are protected by the Lord Proprietaries Government; and in case of any Assault or Murder, committed on any _English_, the Party offending is try’d by the Laws of the Province; and in case of any new Election of King or Emperor among them, they present the Person so Elected to the Governor for the time being, who as he sees cause, either alters or confirms their Choice.

In the Year 1663. at the _Indians_ Request, the present Governor Mr. _Charles Calvert_, and some others of his Lordships Privy-Council there, went to _Pascatoway_, in this Province, to be present at the Election of a new Emperor for that Nation: They presented a Youth nam’d _Nattawasso_, and humbly Requested to have him confirm’d Emperor of _Pascatoway_, by the Name of _Wahocasso_; which after some charge given them in general, to be good and faithful Subjects to him, the Governor accordingly did, and receiv’d him into his Protection.

They pay great Respect and Obedience to their Kings and Superiors, whose Commands they immediately Execute, though with an apparent hazard of their Lives.

The Mens chief employment is Hunting, and the Wars, in both which they commonly use Bowes and Arrows; some of late have Guns and other Weapons, by a private Trade with some _English_ Neighboring Plantations: They are excellent Marks-men, it being the onely thing they breed their Youth to: The Women Plant and look after the Corn, make their Bread, and dress what Provisions their Husbands bring home. Their way of Marriage is by agreement with the Womens Parents or Friends, who for a certain Sum of their Money, or other Goods, deliver her to the Man at a day appointed, which is commonly spent in jollity.

[Sidenote: Their Money.]

There are two sorts of _Indian_ Money, _Wampompeage_ and _Roanoack_, these serve among them as Gold and Silver do in _Europe_, both are made of Fish-shells, which they string like Beads; _Wampompeage_ is the largest Bead, sixty whereof countervails an Arms length of _Roanoack_, which is valued at six Pence _Sterling_; with this they purchase Commodities of the _English_, as Trading-Cloth, _&c._ of which they make themselves Mantles, which is something shaggy, and is call’d _Dutch Duffels_; this is their Winter Habit; in Summer they onely wear a narrow slip of the same to cover those parts, which natural modesty teaches them to conceal; the better sort have Stockings made thereof, and pieces of Deer-Skin, stitch’d together about their Feet in stead of Shooes: The Womens Apparel is the same, but those of the best Quality among them bedeck themselves with _Wampompeage_ or _Roanoack_, or some other toy.

[Sidenote: Manner of habitation.]

Their Houses are rais’d about the height of a large Arbor, and cover’d with Barks of Trees very tite, in the middle whereof is the Fire-place, they lie generally upon Mats of their own making, plac’d round the Fire, a Woodden-bowl or two, an Earthen Pot, and a Mortar and Pestle, is their chiefest Houshold-stuff; he that hath his Bowe and Arrows, or Gun, a Hatchet, and a _Canoo_, (a term they use for Boats) is in their minds rarely well provided for; each House contains a distinct Family, each Family hath its peculiar Field about the Town, where they Plant their Corn, and other sorts of Grain afore-mention’d.

[Sidenote: Civility to the _English_.]

They are courteous to the _English_, if they chance to see any of them coming towards their Houses, they immediately meet him half-way, conduct him in, and bid him welcome with the best Cates they have: The _English_ giving them in like manner civil Entertainment, according to their Quality.

The _Werowance_ of _Patuxent_ having been Treated for some days at St. _Maries_, by the then Governor, Mr. _Leonard Calvert_, his Lordships Brother, at his first coming thither to settle that Colony, took his leave of him with this Expression, _I love the_ English _so well, that if they should go about to kill me, if I had so much breath as to speak, I would Command my People not to revenge my death; for I know they would not do such a thing, except it were through my own default._

In Affairs of concern, they are very considerate, and use few words in declaring their intentions; for at Mr. _Leonard Calverts_ first arrival there, the _Werowance_ of _Pascatoway_ being ask’d by him, _Whether he would be content, that the_ English _should sit down in his Countrey?_ return’d this answer, _That he would not bid him go, neither would he bid him stay, but that he might use his own discretion._ These were their expressions to the Governor at his first entrance into _Mary-land_, whom then they were jealous of, whether he might prove a Friend or a Neighbor, but by his discreet Demeanor towards them at first, and friendly usage of them afterwards, they are now become, not only civil, but serviceable to the _English_ there upon all occasions.

The _Indians_ of the Eastern shore are most numerous, and were formerly very refractory, whom Mr. _Leonard Calvert_ some few years after his first settling the Colony, was forc’d to reduce, and of late the Emperor of _Nanticoke_, and his Men were deservedly defeated by the present Governor, Mr. _Charles Calvert_, who reduc’d him about the year 1668. which has since tam’d the ruder sort of the neighboring _Indians_, who now by experience, find it better to submit and be protected by the Lord Proprietaries Government, than to make any vain attempt against his Power.

These People live under no Law, but that of Nature and Reason, which notwithstanding leads them to the acknowledgement of a Deity, whom they own to be the Giver of all good things, wherewith their Life is maintain’d, and to him they Sacrifice the first Fruits of the Earth, and of that which they acquire by Hunting and Fishing: The Sacrifice is perform’d by their Priests, who are commonly ancient Men, and profess themselves Conjurers; they first make a Speech to their God, then burn part, and eat and distribute the rest among them that are present; until this Ceremony be ended, they will not touch one bit thereof; they hold the Immortality of the Soul, and that there is a place of Joy, and another of Torment after Death, prepar’d for every one according to their Merits.

They bury their Dead with strange expressions of Sorrow (the better sort upon a Scaffold, erected for that end) whom they leave cover’d with Mats, and return when his flesh is consum’d to Interr his Bones; the common sort are committed to the Earth without that Ceremony; but they never omit to bury some part of their Wealth, Arms, and Houshold-stuff with the Corps.

SECT. IV.
Virginia.

[Sidenote: Situation of _Virginia_.]

[Sidenote: First Discovery.]

The most Southerly part of _Virginia_ (for all that Tract of Land, reaching from _Norumbega_ to _Florida_, and containing _New-England_, _New-York_, _Mary-land_, and this part we are now about to Treat of, was by Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ term’d _Virginia_, in Honor of our Virgin-Queen _Elizabeth_) lies between _Mary-land_, which it hath on the North, and _Carolina_, which it hath on the South, from thirty six, to near thirty eight Degrees of Northern Latitude; and with the rest of those Countries which were comprehended under the same Denomination, was by the Encouragement, and at the Expence of the said Sir _Walter Rawleigh_, first Discover’d (as some say) by Captain _Francis Drake_, for his many notable and bold Exploits, afterwards Knighted by the Queen: But upon examination we find little reason to ascribe the first Discovery thereof to Sir _Francis Drake_, whose chief performances, from the time he first made himself Eminent at Sea, were against the _Spaniards_, and for the most part in the _Spanish-Indies_; as his taking of _Nombre de Dios_, and _Vinta Cruz_, with an infinite mass of Treasure; his taking of _Santo Domingo_ in _Hispaniola_, and of _Carthagena_ in _Castella Anna_; and that which seems to have given occasion of attributing to him the first Discovery of these parts, was his touching upon the North part of the Isle of _California_, where being nobly Entertain’d by _Hioh_, a King of that Countrey, and having a Surrendry thereof made to him, in behalf of the Queen of _England_, he upon a Pillar erected, Inscrib’d the Arms of _England_, with the Queens Name and his own, and call’d the place _Nova Albion_: Certain indeed it is, that Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ was the first Promoter of this Discovery; for, after Mr. _Martin Forbisher_ had been sent by Queen _Elizabeth_ to search for the North-West Passage, which was in the year 1576. and for which he also was by the Queen advanc’d to Knight-hood, and nobly rewarded; and Sir _Humphrey Gilbert_ obtaining the Queens Letters Patents, for attempting a Plantation, had reach’d _New-found-land_ (though perishing in his return) he upon these Relations and Inducements undertook by others (for his employments would not permit him to go in Person) to gain Discoveries to the Southward; and accordingly in the year of our Lord 1584. obtain’d a Commission from the Queen, to discover and Plant new Lands in _America_, not actually possess’d by any _Christians_, who, with the assistance of Sir _Richard Greenvil_, and others, provided two small Barques, under the Command of Captain _Philip Amidas_, and Captain _Arthur Barlow_, who setting Sail the 27. of _April_, fell the 2^d of _July_ following with the Coast of _Florida_, and made Discovery of the Isle of _Wokokon_, _Roanoack_, and the Continent of _Wingandacoa_, which they left; and arriving in _England_ about the midst of _September_ following, Her Majesty upon the relation of their Discoveries, was pleas’d to call this Countrey _Virginia_.

_April 9. 1585._ Sir _Richard Greenvil_, with seven Sail, and several Gentlemen, left _Plymouth_; and on _May 26._ Anchor’d at _Wokokon_, but made their first Seat at _Roanoack_ on _August 17._ following, which lies in thirty six Degrees of Northerly Latitude, or thereabouts, where they continu’d till _June 1586._ during which time they made several Discoveries in the Continent and adjacent Islands; and being endanger’d by the treachery of the Salvages, return’d for _England_, and Landed at _Portsmouth_ on _July 27._ following.

Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ and his Associates, in the year 1586. sent a Ship to relieve that Colony, which had deserted the Countrey some while before, and were all return’d for _England_ as is before-mention’d.

Some few days after they were gone, Sir _Richard Greenvil_, with three Ships, arriv’d at the Plantation at _Roanoack_, which he found deserted, and leaving fifty Men thereto keep Possession of that Countrey, return’d for _England_.

The year following, Mr. _John White_, with three Ships, came to search for the fifty _English_ at _Roanoack_, but found them not, they having been set upon by the Natives, and dispers’d so, as no News could be heard of them, and in their room left a hundred and fifty more to continue that Plantation.

In _August 1589._ Mr. _John White_ went thither again, to search for the last Colony which he had left there; but not finding them, return’d for _England_ in _Septemb. 6. 1590._

This ill Success made all further Discoveries to be laid aside, till Captain _Gosnol_ on _March 26. 1602._ set Sail from _Dartmouth_, and on _May 11._ following, made Land at a place, where some _Biscaners_, as he guess’d by the Natives information, had formerly fish’d, being about the Latitude of forty eight Degrees Northerly Latitude; from hence putting to Sea, he made Discovery of an Island which he call’d _Marthas Vineyard_, and shortly after of _Elizabeth_’s Isle, and so return’d for _England_, _June 18._ following.

In the Year 1603. the City of _Bristol_ rais’d a Stock, and furnish’d out two Barques for Discovery, under the Command of Captain _Martin Pring_, who about _June 7._ fell with the North of _Virginia_ in the three and fortieth Degree, found plenty of good Fish, nam’d a place _Whitson-Bay_, and so return’d.

In the Year 1605. the Right Honorable _Thomas Arundel_ the first, Baron of _Warder_, and Count of the _Roman_ Empire, set out Captain _George Waymouth_, with twenty nine Sea-men, and necessary Provisions, to make what Discoveries he could; who by contrary Winds, fell Northward about one and forty Degrees and twenty Minutes of Northerly Latitude, where they found plenty of good Fish; and Sailing further, discover’d an Island, where they nam’d a Harbor, _Pentecost-Harbor_; and on _July 18._ following, came back for _England_.

In the Year 1606. by the sollicitation of Captain _Gosnol_, and several Gentlemen, a Commission was granted by King _James_ of _Great Brittain_, _&c._ for establishing a Council, to direct those new Discoveries; Captain _Newport_ (a well practic’d Marriner) was intrusted with the Transportation of the Adventurers in two Ships, and a Pinace, who on _Decemb. 19. 1606._ set Sail from _Black-wall_, and were by Storm, contrary to expectation, cast upon the first Land, which they call’d _Cape Henry_, at the Mouth of the Bay of _Chesapeack_, lying in thirty seven Degrees, or thereabouts, of Northerly Latitude: Here their Orders were open’d and read, and eight declar’d of the Council, and impower’d to chose a President for a year, who with the Council should Govern that Colony: Till _May 13._ they sought a place to Plant in, Mr. _Winkfield_ was chose the first President, who caus’d a Fort to be rais’d at _Powhatan_, now call’d _James-Town_: In _June_ following, Captain _Newport_ return’d for _England_, leaving a hundred Men behind him; since which time they have been sufficiently supply’d from _England_, and by the indefatigable Industry and Courage of Captain _John Smith_, (one of the Council at that time, and afterward President of the Colony) they made several Discoveries on the Eastern shore, and up to the Head of the Bay of _Chesapeack_, and of the principal Rivers which fall into the said Bay.

_Virginia_ being thus Discover’d and Planted, King _James_ by his Letters Patent bearing Date _April 10._ in the fourth year of his Reign, 1607. Granted Licence to Sir _Thomas Gates_, Sir _George Summers_, and others, to divide themselves into two several Colonies, for the more speedy Planting of that Countrey, then call’d _Virginia_, between the Degrees of thirty four and forty five of North Latitude, that is to say, taken in that large extent, mention’d in the beginning: The first Colony to be undertaken by certain Knights, Gentlemen, and Merchants, in, and about the City of _London_: The second to be undertaken, and advanc’d by certain Knights, Gentlemen, and Merchants, and their Associates, in, or about the City of _Bristol_, _Exon_, _Plymouth_, and other parts.

At the first Colonies Request, in the seventh year of the same King, a second Patent was Granted to several Noblemen and Gentlemen, (including Sir _Thomas Gates_, and some of his former Fellow-Patentees) bearing Date _May 23. 1610._ whereby they were made a Corporation, and Body Politique, and stil’d, _The Treasurer, and Company of Adventurers and Planters of the City of_ London, _for the first Colony of_ Virginia: And by this Patent, there was Granted to them, their Successors and Assigns, two hundred Miles to the Southward, from a _Cape_ of Land in _Virginia_, call’d _Point Comfort_; and two hundred Miles to the Northward of the said _Cape_, along the Sea-shore, and into the Land from Sea to Sea.

And on _March 12. 1612._ the said King, in the ninth year of his Reign, Grants them a third Patent, of all Islands lying in the Sea, within two hundred Miles of the Shore of that Tract of Land on the Continent, granted to them by the said former Patent, _Jac. 7._

In the Year 1615. Captain _Smith_ procur’d by his Interest at Court, and the King’s Favor, a Recommendation from His Majesty, and divers of the Nobility, to all Cities and Corporations, to Adventure in a standing Lottery, which was erected for the benefit of this Plantation, which was contriv’d in such a manner, that of 100000. Pounds which was to be put in, 50000. onely, or one half was to return to the Adventurers, according as the Prizes fell out; and the other half to be dispos’d of for the Promotion of the Affairs of _Virginia_, in which, though it were three years before it was fully accomplish’d, he had in the end no bad Success.

In the eighteenth Year of the said King’s Reign, at the Request of the second Colony, a Patent was Granted to several Noblemen and Gentlemen, of all that Tract of Land lying in the parts of _America_, between the Degrees of forty and forty eight of Northerly Latitude, and into the Land from Sea to Sea, which was call’d by the Patent _New England in America_: For the better Government whereof, one Body-Politick and Corporate was thereby appointed and ordain’d in _Plymouth_, consisting of the said Noblemen, Gentlemen, and others, to the number of forty Persons, by the Name of _The Council establish’d at_ Plymouth _in the County of_ Devon, _for the Planting, Ruling, Ordering, and Governing of_ New England _in_ America.

[Sidenote: The Patent of _Virginia_ made void.]

The Miscarriages and Misdemeanors of the aforesaid Corporation for the first Colony of _Virginia_, were so many and so great, that His said Majesty was forc’d, in or about _October 1623._ to direct a _Quo Warranto_, for the calling in of that former Patent, which in _Trinity_ Term following was legally Evinc’d, Condemn’d, and made Void, by Judgment in the Court of the then _Kings-Bench_; as also all other Patents, by which the said Corporation claim’d any Interest in _Virginia_. Thus this Corporation of the first Colony of _Virginia_ was dissolv’d, and that Plantation hath been since Govern’d and Dispos’d of by Persons Constituted and Impower’d for that purpose from time to time, by immediate Commissions from the Kings of _England_.

[Sidenote: The Patent of _Mary-land_ granted to the Lord _Baltemore_.]

In the Year of our Lord 1631. the Right Honorable _George_ Lord _Baltemore_ obtain’d a Grant of King _Charles_ the First of _Great Britain_, _&c._ of part of that Land to the Northward, which is now call’d _Mary-land_; but this Patent of _Mary-land_ was not perfected till 1632. as you may understand more fully by the precedent Discourse of _Mary-land_, which by express words in the said Patent is separated from, and thereby declar’d not to be reputed for the future, any part of _Virginia_.

[Sidenote: The Patent _Carolina_ granted to several Noble Persons.]

And in the fifteenth Year of the Reign of King _Charles_ the Second of _Great Britain_, _&c._ on _March 24. 1663._ _Edward_ Earl of _Clarendon_, then High-Chancellor of _England_, _George_ Duke of _Albemarle_, _William_, now Earl of _Craven_, _John_ Lord _Berkley_, _Anthony_ Lord _Ashley_, Sir _George Carterett_ Knight and Baronet, Sir _William Berkley_ Knight, and Sir _John Colleton_ Knight and Baronet, obtain’d a Patent from His Majesty, of the Province of _Carolina_, which lies to the Southward of _Virginia_, in which is included some part of that Land which formerly belong’d to the said dissolv’d Company of _Virginia_. So that _Virginia_ at present extendeth it self onely, and is situated between thirty six and thirty seven Degrees and fifty Minutes, or thereabouts, of Northern Latitude, and is bounded on the North, by _Mary-land_; on the South, by _Carolina_; on the East, by the Ocean; and on the West, by the South-Seas.

[Sidenote: Rivers of _Virginia_.]

The Entrance by Sea into this Countrey is the same with that of _Mary-land_, between _Cape Henry_ and _Cape Charles_, plac’d on each side of the Mouth of the Bay of _Chesapeak_; on the West side whereof you first meet with a pleasant and commodious River call’d _James-River_, about three Miles wide at its Entrance, and Navigable a hundred and fifty.

Fourteen Miles from this River Northward lies _York-River_, which is Navigable sixty or seventy Miles, but with Ketches and small Barques thirty or forty Miles farther.

Passing hence to the North you discover a third stately River, call’d _Rappahanock_, which is Navigable about a hundred and thirty Miles—from whence following the Shore to the North you enter into _Patomeck-River_, which is already describ’d in the precedent Discourse of _Mary-land_, to which Province this River belongs, whose Southerly Bank gives Bounds to that part of _Virginia_ and _Mary-land_.

To these Rivers many other Inland Branches and Rivulets are reduc’d, the chief of which are hereafter specifi’d.

[Sidenote: Nature of the Countrey.]

The Countrey is generally even, the Soil fruitful, the Climate healthful, and agreeable with _English_ Constitutions, especially since the increase of Inhabitants, and accommodation of good Diet and Lodging, which the first Planters found great want of heretofore. For many years, till of late, most New-comers had the first Year in _July_ and _August_, a Disease which is call’d _A Seasoning_, whereof many died, like to what is mention’d before in the Description of _Mary-land_, though more mortal and common than in _Mary-land_, because _Virginia_ is a lower Countrey, and somewhat hotter, insomuch that formerly divers ill of that Distemper have come purposely from _Virginia_ to _Mary-land_, to recover their Health; but now, since the Countrey is more open and clear from Wood, few die of it, and many have no _Seasonings_ at all.

This Countrey affordeth generally all such Roots, Herbs, Gums, and Balsoms, as are express’d before in the Relation of _Mary-land_.

[Sidenote: Trees]

All sorts of Trees for Building and Husbandry, Fruit-Trees, Vines, _&c._ are found in both Countreys, equal in goodness and quantity, onely in such things as require more Sun, and that may be produc’d by Industry, there may be some little difference, because _Virginia_ is somewhat more to the Southward of _Mary-land_, as in Vines, Oranges, Lemmons, Olives, Silk, _&c._

[Sidenote: Silk-Grass.]

There is a Plant grows naturally in this Countrey, and in _Mary-land_, call’d _Silk-Grass_, which will make a fine Stuff with a silky Gloss, and better Cordage than Hemp or Flax, both for strength and durance.

[Sidenote: Fruits peculiar to _Virginia_.]

The wild Beasts, Birds, and Fish, are much the same also in this Countrey as are before describ’d in the precedent Description of _Mary-land_: Nevertheless we shall think it proper not to omit some Fruits, Plants, Beasts, _&c._ mention’d by the most authentick Describers of _New England_, as peculiar to that Countrey. The Fruits are, their _Putchamines_, which are a kind of Damsons; _Messamines_, a kind of Grapes; _Chechinquamins_, a sort of Fruit resembling a Chesnut; _Rawcomens_, a Fruit resembling a Goose-berry; _Macoquer_, a kind of Apple; _Mettaquesunnauks_, a sort of Fruit resembling _Indian_ Figs; _Morococks_, resembling a Straw-berry, besides a Berry which they call _Ocoughtanamnis_, somewhat like to Capers.

[Sidenote: Roots.]

Their peculiar Roots are _Tockawaugh_, good to eat; _Wichsacan_, of great vertue in healing of Wounds; _Pocones_, good to asswage Swellings and Aches; _Musquaspen_, wherewith they Paint their Targets and Mats. Also they have in great request a Pulse call’d _Assentamen_, and the Plant _Mattouna_, of which they make Bread.

[Sidenote: Beasts.]

Their peculiar Beasts are, the _Aroughena_, resembling a Badger; the _Assapanick_ or _Flying-Squerril_; _Opassum_, a certain Beast having a Bag under her Belly, wherein she carrieth and suckleth her Young; _Mussascus_, which smelling strong of Musk, resembleth a Water-Rat; _Utchunquois_, a kind of wild Cat.

Their peculiar Fish are _Stingrais_.

[Sidenote: Rivulets.]

On the West side of the Bay of _Chesapeak_, between _Cape Henry_ and the Southerly Bank of the River of _Patomeck_, are three fair Navigable Rivers, as is before mention’d, into which the other small Rivulets fall, which here we will give some account of, as also of the _Indian_, or antient Names by which these three principal Rivers were formerly known. The first whereof is _Powhatan_ (now call’d _James-River_) according to the Name of a large and considerable Territory that lieth upon it. The Rivers that fall into this Southward, are _Apamatuck_; Eastward, _Quiyonycohanuc_, _Nansamund_, and _Chesapeak_; and Northward, _Chickamahania_.

The second Navigable River is _Pamaunkee_, by the _English_ now term’d _York-River_. The Rivulet that falls into this is _Poyankatanck_.

The third (which is before describ’d, and usually known by the Name of _Rappahanoc_) was formerly term’d _Toppahanoc_.

This we thought fit here to insert, to the end no colour of mistake might remain to after Ages concerning the derivation or original change of such proper Names, especially being Places of great advantage to the Colony.

[Sidenote: Several People of the ancient natives of _Virginia_.]

The chiefest of those Tribes or Divisions of People among the _Indians_, that were by Name known to the _English_ at their first arrival, were upon the River _Pouhatan_ the _Kecoughtans_, the _Paspaheges_, (on whose Land is seated _James-Town_) the _Weanocks_, the _Arrohatocks_, the _Appametocks_, the _Nansamunds_, the _Chesapeacks_, &c. On the River _Pamaunkee_, are the _Youngtanunds_, the _Mattapaments_, &c. On the River _Toppahanoc_, the _Manahoacks_, the _Moraghtacunds_, and the _Cuttatawomens_. On the River _Patawomek_, the _Wighcocomocans_, the _Onawmanients_, and the _Moyanances_. On the River _Pawtuxunt_, the _Acquintacsuacs_, the _Pawtuxunts_, and the _Matapunients_. On the River _Bolus_, the _Sasquesahanoes_: Southward from the Bay, the _Chawonocks_, the _Mangoacks_, the _Monacans_, the _Mannahocks_, the _Masawomeks_, the _Atquanahucks_, and the _Kuscarawaocks_, besides a number not material to be nam’d, as having had little of Transaction that we hear of with the Planters.

[Sidenote: Number of Inhabitants.]

The number of _English_ Inhabitants in this Country are in this present Year 1671. about thirty or forty thousand, who are plentifully stock’d with all sorts of tame Cattel, as Cows, Sheep, Horses, Swine, _&c._ and all sorts of _English_ Grain; great store of brave Orchards for Fruit, whereof they make great quantities of Cyder and Perry.

They have been much oblig’d by that worthy Gentleman Mr. _Edward Digges_, Son of Sir _Dudley Digges_, who was Master of the Rolls, and a Privy Councellor to King _Charles_ the First, of _Great Britain_, _&c._ For the said Mr. _Digges_ at his great Charge and Industry, hath very much advanc’d the making of Silk in this Countrey, for which purpose he hath sent for several Persons out of _Armenia_ to teach them that Art, and how to wind it off the Cods of the Silk-worms; and hath made at his own Plantation in this Colony for some years last past, considerable quantities of Silk, which is found to be as good Silk as any is in the World, which hath encourag’d divers others to prosecute that Work.

[Sidenote: The Commodities of _Virginia_.]

Though this Countrey be capable of producing many other good Commodities, yet the Planters have hitherto imploy’d themselves for the most part in Planting of Tobacco, as they do in _Mary-Land_; whereof there are two sorts, one which is call’d _Sweet-scented_, and the other call’d _Oranoack_, or _Bright and Large_, which is much more in quantity, but of lesser price than the former; and the Plantations upon _York River_ are esteem’d to produce the best of that sort of _Sweet-scented_: There is so much of this Commodity Planted in _Virginia_, and Imported from thence into _England_, that the Custom and Excise paid in _England_ for it, yields the King about fifty or threescore thousand Pounds _Sterling_, _per annum_: With this Commodity the Planters buy of the Ships that come thither for it (which are above a hundred Sail yearly from _England_, and other _English_ Plantations) all Necessaries of Clothing, and other Utensils of Houshold-stuff, _&c._ which they want, though they make some Shoes, and Linnen and Woollen Cloth in some Parts of _Virginia_, of the growth and Manufacture of the Countrey; and if they would Plant less Tobacco (as it is probable they will e’re long find it convenient for them to do, it being now grown a Drug of very low value, by reason of the vast quantities planted of it) they might in time provide themselves all Necessaries of Livelyhood, and produce richer and more Staple-Commodities for their Advantage.

Their usual way of Trafique in buying and selling is by exchange of one Commodity for another; and Tobacco is the general Standard, by which all other Commodities receive their value; but they have some _English_ and foreign Coyns, which serve them upon many occasions.

The Government is by a Governor and Council, Appointed and Authoriz’d from time to time by immediate Commission from the King of _Great Brittain_: And Laws are made by the Governor, with the consent of a General Assembly, which consists of two Houses, an Upper and a Lower; the first consists of the Council, and the latter of the Burgesses chosen by the Freemen of the Countrey; and Laws so made are in Force till His Majesty thinks fit to alter them.

The chief Court of Judicature is call’d _The Quarter-Court_, because it is held every quarter of a Year, where all Causes Criminal and Civil are heard and determin’d, and the Judges of this Court are the Governor and Council: The present Governor in this Year 1671. is Sir _William Berkley_, who was made Governor by King _Charles_ the First, of _Great Brittain, &c._ in the Year 1640. And those of the Council are Sir _Henry Chichesly_, who is one of the greatest and most considerable Planters there, and Mr. _Edward Diggs_ before-mention’d, Mr. _Thomas Ludwel_ Secretary, Major-General _Robert Smith_, and divers other worthy Gentlemen.

That Part of the Country where the _English_ are Planted, is divided into nineteen Counties, _viz._ _Northampton-County_ in _Acomack_, on the Eastern shore; and on the Western shore, _Corotuck_, _Lower-Norfolk_, _Nansemund_, _Isle of Wight_, _Surry_, _Warwick_, _Henerico_, _James_, _Charles_, _York_, _New-Kent_, _Glocester_, _Middlesex_, _Lancaster_, _Northumberland_, _Westmoreland_, _Rappahanock_, and _Harford-Counties_.

In every one of these Counties there are inferior County-Courts kept every Month; these take no Cognizance of Causes relating to Life or Member, or exceeding a certain limited Value, such being refer’d to the Quarter-Courts only, to which likewise there lie Appeals from their Inferior Courts.

There are Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace, and other Officers in every respective County, appointed by the Governor, for the Administration of Justice, who sit there according to his Order, and whereof these County-Courts are chiefly compos’d.

There are few Towns as yet erected in this Colony; the Principal Seat of the _English_ there, is at a Place call’d _James-City_, in Honor of King _James_ of _Great Brittain, &c._ This is situated in a _Peninsula_, on the North-side of _James River_, and has in it many fair Brick and other good Houses: In this place are held the Quarter-Courts, General Assemblies, the Secretaries Office, and all other Affairs and greatest Concerns of the Colony are here dispatch’d. On the same side, nearer the Mouth of this River, stands _Elizabeth-City_, containing also several good Houses of Brick and Timber.

Sir _William Berkley_, the present Governor resides at a place somewhat distant from _James-City_, call’d _Green-spring_, a fair Brick House, which he himself caus’d to be Built.

The other Towns of Note belonging to the _English_, are only _Henricopolis_, or _Henry’s-Town_ (so nam’d from Prince _Henry_ then living, built in a very convenient place, more within Land, about eighty Miles distant from _James-City_) and _Dale’s-Gift_, so nam’d from Sir _Thomas Dale_ Deputy-Governor of the Countrey, about the Year 1610.

The _Indians_ of _Virginia_ far exceed those of _Mary-land_, in Treachery and Cruelty to the _English_ there, as will appear by this following Relation of their Proceedings towards them, since the first Seating of that Colony, wherein nevertheless, the Civility of some particular Persons at their first Landing is not to be omitted.

[Sidenote: Transactions between the _English_ and the Natives.]

Upon the first arrival of Captain _Amidas_ and Captain _Barlow_ in _Wingandacoa_, now _Virginia_, they were accosted by _Granganimeo_ (the King’s Brother of that Countrey) who, attended with a Train of forty or fifty Men, came in a very civil manner to Treat about a Commerce of Trade and Traffique, which immediately began between them, and several Barters were made: _Granganimeo_, who was very just of his word, and always kept his promis’d Day of meeting, fancying most a Pewter Dish, gave twenty Deer-skins for it, and boring a Hole therein, hung it about his Neck for a Breast-plate; afterwards he, with his whole Company, and his Wife and Children, frequently and familiarly did eat and drink aboard the _English_ Ships, the King himself call’d _Wingina_, lying sick at his chief Town, six days Journy off, of a dangerous Wound which he had receiv’d from a neighboring King his mortal Enemy. Some of the _English_ going to Land upon the Isle of _Roanoack_, were met by _Granganimeo_’s Wife, who, her Husband being absent, commanded her Servants some to draw their Boat ashore, some to carry them on their Backs to Land, others to carry their Oars into the House for fear of stealing; and having caus’d a great Fire to be made to warm them, and to dry those that had been wet in their Voiage, she afterwards entertain’d them with a plentiful Feast or Banquet after that Country fashion; and when they took alarm at the coming of two or three of her Men with Bows and Arrows, she caus’d the Bows to be broken, and the Men to be beaten out of the House, besides several other demonstrations of extraordinary civility; and when not withstanding all this they could not be perswaded to Lodg any where but in their Boat, she us’d all means imaginable to make them quit their Jealousy, and accept of a Lodging in the House.

In the Year 1585. a Company that went over with Sir _Richard Greenvil_, burnt the Town of _Aquascogoc_, for a Silver Cup that was stoln by some of the _Indians_, took Prisoner _Menatonon_, King of _Chawonoc_, who gave Relation of a King about three days Journy off, who possess’d an Island rich in Pearl, which was taken in a deep Water that inviron’d it. Going towards the Countrey of the _Mangoacks_ (among whom in the Province of _Chaunis Temaotan_, they heard of a Mine of strange Copper call’d _Wassador_, with _Skiko_, the King of _Chawonock_’s Son, and _Manteo_, a faithful Salvage, for their Guide) they were treacherously dealt with by _Wingina_, alias _Pemissapan_ (for so, his Brother _Granganimeo_ being lately dead, he had alter’d his Name) who endeavor’d to stir up a Confederacy of the _Chawonocks_, _Moratocks_, and _Mangoacks_ against them; yet by the urgent perswasions of _Ensenore_ his Father, the truest Friend the _English_ had, after the death of _Granganimeo_, and seeing them safe return’d from their Journey, wherein he thought they had all perish’d, and especially upon _Menatonon_’s sending Messengers to them with Pearl, and _Okisco_ King of _Weopomeock_, to yield himself Vassal to the Queen of _England_, his Hatred was somewhat cool’d; but _Ensenore_ deceasing soon after, he return’d to his old treacherous Practices again, and in the end, while he was contriving Mischief against the Planters, he himself was shot, taken Prisoner, and beheaded.

After the Company left upon _Virginia_ by Sir _Richard Greenvil_, (for he himself was return’d) tir’d out with hunger, hardship, and the many extremities they were at last reduc’d to, had deserted the Place, and obtain’d passage for _England_, through the civility of Sir _Francis Drake_, pitying their distress, fifty Men more were Landed upon _Roanoack-Isle_, by the same Person, who how they were surpris’d and destroy’d by the Natives, was discover’d at large to the Supply that was sent over in the Year 1587. by Mr. _White_.

A small Party under Captain _Smith_ going down the River to _Keconghean_, were very fiercely assaulted by sixty or seventy _Indians_, but their Musquet-shot did such Execution amongst them, that they fled into the Woods and left behind them the Image of their God, which had been carry’d before them as their Standard, and not long after sent one of their _Queiongcasocks_ to offer Peace, and to redeem their _Okee_; which _Smith_ granting, on condition six onely of them would come unarm’d and load his Boat with Provisions; and promising more over to become their Friend, and furnish them with Beads, Copper, and Hatchets: They accepted the Condition, and brought him Venison, Turkies, wild Fowl, Bread, and what else they had, Singing and Dancing in sign of Friendship till they departed.

In his next Voyage for the discovery of the Head of _Chickamahania_ River, he was, through the neglect of his Sea-men who were sent to watch the Booty, taken Prisoner; in which condition he was kept a whole Month: then being releas’d, he got Provisions for the People in _James-Town_; which had they not timely receiv’d, they had all abandon’d the Place, and return’d to _England_.

[Sidenote: King _Powhatan_.]

[Sidenote: _James-Town_ burnt.]

While Affairs stood thus in a mean condition, Captain _Newport_ arriving there with a Ship and sixty Men to strengthen the Plantations, he went to _Weromocomoco_, where King _Powhatan_ kept his Court, and found him sitting on a Bed of Mats, and an Embroider’d Leather Cushion, Cloth’d in Deer-skins; at his Feet sat a young Maiden, and on each side of the House twenty Concubines; his Head and Shoulders painted red, and a Chain of white Beads about his Neck. _Newport_ to oblige him, gave him an _English_ Youth; for which he receiv’d _Powhatans_ Friend _Mamontak_; with whom returning, he found a sad accident, for the Fire had not onely burnt the Houses of the new Planters, but also the Pallisado’s about _James-Town_, made for a Defence against the Enemies Assaults, and most of their Store; which was so much the worse, because it hapned in the Winter, and indeed had prov’d very fatal, had not a Ship, which was suppos’d to be lost, happily arriv’d there with a considerable quantity of Provisions.

[Sidenote: _Smith_’s Voyage.]

[Sidenote: His remarkable Exploits.]

Whilst the Town was rebuilding, _Smith_ set Sail in an open Barque with fourteen Men, and discover’d two Isles before _Point Charles_, to which he gave his Name; then ran into the Inlet _Chesapeack_, in the midst of which lay several Islands, by the Sea-men call’d _Russels_. Before the River _Wighcomoco_ they found a disturbed Sea, and more Northerly a Bay with fresh and hot Water, and at last he met with two _Virginians_, which conducted the _English_ along a Creek to _Onawmoment_, where some hundreds of them lay in Ambuscade, according to _Powhatan_’s appointment, to cut off _Smith_; who leaping forth on a sudden appear’d like Devils, all painted; but the Bullets flying about made them all run away. _Smith_, whose Design was onely to discover the Countrey, and the Silver Mine of _Patawomeck_, ten Leagues up into the Countrey, found the Metal to be of little value, so that he return’d with little Success, being newly cur’d of a poysonous Wound in the Arm, which was given him by a Fish not unlike a Shark, whilst he lay aground near _Toppahanock_.

A while after being inform’d of _Powhatan_’s Design to destroy the _English_, (though he had been lately Presented by _Newport_ with a Silver Basin, a rich Chair, Bed, and Furniture belonging to it, with other things of value) he, to prevent him, chose forty eight out of two hundred Men which were Garrison’d in _James-Town_, then going to _Werowocomoco_, Landed with much trouble, the River being frozen above half a Mile from the Shore.

A _German_ Soldier amongst _Smith_’s Company giving private notice to _Powhatan_ of the Design of the _English_, made his Escape by flight: But _Smith_ going on to _Pamaunke_, found King _Opechancangough_ with seven hundred Men in Arms, threatning a fierce Battel; but _Smith_ making directly up to him, set his Pistol on his Breast, and forc’d him to lay down his Arms. _Powhatan_ by this time provided with Swords and Musquets by two _Dutch_-men, also began to bestir himself afresh; but his Intentions being too soon known, he was again quieted, and forc’d a second time to send _Smith_ a String of Pearl; after which a Peace was concluded between all the Natives and the _English_.

Many other Quarrels and Encounters there were in the Infancy of the Plantation between the _Indians_ and the _English_, wherein it would be endless to recount all the Treacheries and Ambuscades of the Salvages, some of which had prov’d very pernicious to the Planters, had they not been betray’d to Captain _Smith_ by _Pocahonta_, King _Powhatan_’s Daughter, who upon all occasions shew’d her self a great Friend to the _English_, having sav’d the Captain’s Life, when, being her Father’s Prisoner, he was just brought to Execution.

This Lady was afterwards brought into _England_, Christned by the Name of _Rebekah_, and Married to one Mr. _Rolf_, and died at _Gravesend_ in an intended Voyage back to her own Countrey.

Nor did their Cruelties and Treacheries end when the Plantation came to be more setled, for on the two and twentieth of _March_ about the Year 1621. in the time of Sir _Francis Wyat_’s Government, they generally combin’d to destroy all the _English_ there; and carried on this devilish Design with such dissimulation and dexterity, that in one day they cut off seven hundred Men, Women, and Children, there being at that time not above fifteen hundred in the Countrey.

Since which time, in the Year of our Lord 1643. there hapned another bloody Massacre, wherein near five hundred _English_ were in one Night miserably butcher’d by those barbarous and perfidious Salvages: whose Blood the present Governor, Sir _William Berkley_, nobly and justly reveng’d the Year following, utterly destroying most of them, and taking Prisoner their chief Emperor, _Opichancono_, who died not long after in Prison.

Having given but a small hint, in its proper place, of the Story of Captain _Smith_’s Imprisonment by _Powhatan_, and his deliverance from Death by _Pocahonta_; we have thought not improper to reserve the Story of it, being very remarkable for a particular Relation, before we conclude our Description of _Virginia_, since otherwise we should have interrupted the Series of our former Discourse.

_The Relation of Captain_ Smith_’s being taken Prisoner by_ Powhatan,
_and of his being deliver’d from Death by his Daughter_ Pocahonta.

The Salvages having drawn from one _George Cassen_, whither Captain _Smith_ was gone, prosecuting that opportunity, they follow’d him with three hundred Bowe-Men, conducted by the King of _Pamaunkee_, who in divisions, searching the turnings of the River, found two of his Men by the fire side, whom they shot full of Arrows, and flew. Then finding the Captain, who, as is said, us’d the Salvage that was his Guide as his Shield, (three of them being slain, and others sore gall’d) the rest would not come near him: Thinking thus to have return’d to his Boat, regarding them as he march’d, more than his way, he slipp’d up to the middle in an Osier-Creek, and his Salvage with him, yet durst they not come to him, till being near dead with cold, he threw away his Arms: Then according to their composition, they drew him forth, and led him to the Fire, where his Men were slain; diligently they chaf’d his benumm’d Limbs, he demanding for their Captain, they shew’d him _Opechankanough_, King of _Pamaunkee_, to whom he gave a round Ivory double compass Dyal. Much they marvel’d at the playing of the Fly and Needle, which they could see so plainly, and yet not touch it, because of the Glass that cover’d them; but when he demonstrated by that Globe-like Jewel, the roundness of the Earth, and Skies; the Sphere of the Sun, Moon, and Stars, and how the Sun did chase the Night round about the World continually; the greatness of the Land and Sea; the diversity of Nations, variety of Complexions, and how we were to them _Antipodes_, and many other such like matters, they all stood as amaz’d with admiration: Notwithstanding, within an hour after they ty’d him to a Tree, and as many as could stand about him prepar’d to shoot him; but the King holding up the Compass in his Hand, they all laid down their Bowes and Arrows, and in a triumphant manner led him to _Orapaks_, where he was after their manner kindly Feasted, and well us’d.

Their order in conducting him was thus; Drawing themselves all in Fyle, the King in the midst had all their Bowes and Swords borne before him. Captain _Smith_ was led after him by three great Salvages, holding him fast by each Arm; and on each side six went in Fyle with their Arrows nocked. But arriving at the Town (which was but onely thirty or forty Hunting Houses made of Mats, which they remove as they please, as we our Tents) all the Women and Children staring and gazing at him, the Souldiers first all in Fyle wheel’d off to the Rear in good Order; on each Flank were Officers, like Serjeants to see them keep their Postures: A good time they continu’d this Exercise, and then cast themselves in a Ring, Dancing in such several Postures, and singing and yelling out such hellish Notes and Screeches; being strangely Painted, every one his Quiver of Arrows, and at his Back a Club; on his Arm a Fox or an Otters-skin, or some such matter for his vambrace; their Heads and Shoulders Painted red, with Oyl and _Pocones_ mingled together, which Scarlet-like colour, made an exceeding handsome show; his Bowe in his Hand, and the Skin of a Bird with her Wings abroad dry’d, ty’d on his Head, a piece of Copper, a white Shell, a long Feather, with a small Rattle growing at the Tails of their Snaks ty’d to it, or some such like Toy. All this while _Smith_ and the King stood in the midst, guarded, as before is said, and after three Dances they all departed. _Smith_ they conducted to a long House, where thirty or forty tall Fellows did guard him, and e’re long, more Bread and Venison was brought him than would have serv’d twenty Men, I think his Stomack at that time was not very good; what he left, they put in Baskets and ty’d over his Head. About midnight they set the Meat again before him; all this time none of them would eat a bit with him, till the next Morning they brought him as much more, and then did they eat all the old, and reserv’d the new as they had done the other, which made him think they would feed him for slaughter: Yet in this desperate estate to fend him from the cold, one _Maocassater_ brought him his Gown, in requital of some Beads and Toys _Smith_ had given him at his first arrival in _Virginia_.

Two days after a man would have slain him (but that the Guard prevented it) for the death of his Son, to whom they conducted him to recover the poor man then breathing his last. _Smith_ told them, that at _James-Town_ he had a Water would do it, if they would let him fetch it, but they would not permit that; but made all the preparations they could to assault _James-Town_, craving his advice, and for recompence he should have Life, Liberty, Land, and Women. In part of a Tablebook he writ his mind to them at the Fort, what was intended, how they should follow that direction to affright the messengers, and without fail send him such things as he writ for, and an Inventory with them. The difficulty and danger, he told the Salvages, of the Mines, great Guns, and other Engines, exceedingly affrighted them, yet according to his Request they went to _James-Town_, in as bitter weather as could be of Frost and Snow, and within three days return’d with an Answer.

But when they came to _James-Town_, seeing Men sally out as he had told them they would, they fled; yet in the night they came again to the same place where he had told them they should receive answer, and such things as he had promis’d them, which they found accordingly, and with which they return’d with no small expedition, to the wonder of them all, supposing that he could either Divine, or the Paper could speak: then they led him to the _Youthtanunds_, the _Mattapanients_, the _Payankatanks_, the _Nantaughtacunds_, and _Onawmanients_ upon the Rivers of _Rapahanock_, and _Patawomek_, through intricate ways, and back again by divers other several Nations, to the Kings Habitation at _Pamaunkee_, where they entertain’d him with most strange and fearful Conjurations. Not long after, early in the Morning, a great fire was made in a long House, and a Mat spread on each side thereof; on the one they caus’d him to sit, and all the Guard went out of the House, and presently there came skipping in a great grim Fellow, all Painted over with Coal, mingled with Oyl; and many Snakes and Wesels-skins stuff’d with Moss, and all their Tails ty’d together, so as they met on the Crown of his Head in a Tassel; and round about the Tassel was a Coronet of Feathers, the Skins hanging round about his Head, Back, and Shoulders, and in a manner cover’d his Face; with a hellish voice, and a Rattle in his Hand. With most strange gestures and passions he began his Invocation, and environ’d the fire with a Circle of Meal; which done, three more such like Devils came rushing in with the like antique Tricks, Painted half black, half red; but all their Eyes were Painted white, and some red strokes like _Mutchato_’s, along their Cheeks: round about him those Fiends Danc’d a pretty while, and then came in three more as ugly as the rest, with red Eyes, and white strokes over their black Faces; at last they all sate down right against him, three of them on the one hand of the chief Priest, and three on the other; then all with their Rattles began a Song, which ended, the chief Priest laid down five Wheat Corns, then stretching his Arms and Hands with such violence, that he sweat, and his Veins swell’d, he began a short Oration: at the conclusion, they all gave a short groan, and then laid down three Grains more; after that, began their Song again, and then another Oration, ever laying down so many Corns as before, till they had twice incircled the Fire; that done, they took a bunch of little Sticks, prepared for that purpose, continuing still their Devotion, and at the end of every Song and Oration, they laid down a Stick between the Divisions of Corn: till night, neither he nor they did either eat or drink, and then they feasted merrily, with the best Provisions they could make: Three days they us’d this Ceremony, the meaning whereof they told him, was to know if he intended them well, or no. The Circle of Meal signifi’d their Countrey, the Circles of Corn the bounds of the Sea, and the Sticks his Countrey. They imagin’d the World to be flat and round, like a Trencher, and they in the midst. After this they brought him a Bag of Gun-powder, which they carefully preferv’d till the next Spring, to Plant as they did their Corn, because they would be acquainted with the nature of that Seed. _Opitchapam_, the King’s Brother, invited him to his House, where, with as many Platters of Bread, Fowl, and wild Beasts, as did environ him, he bid him wellcome, but not any of them would eat a bit with him, but put up all the remainder in Baskets. At his return to _Opechancanoughs_, all the Kings Women, and their Children, flock’d about him for their Parts, as a due by Custom, to be merry with such Fragments.