Trim your tree with History! Celebrate Gayë́twahgeh, also known as Cornplanter, with our exclusive handmade ornament. Our ornament is inspired by New-York Historical’s iconic 1796 portrait by F. Bartoli. The portrait commemorates Cornplanter’s May 1786 meeting with the U.S. Congress in New York, which signaled the establishment of peaceful relations between the Seneca chief and the young republic. He wears the regalia presented to him by the "Council of the Thirteen Fires."
Cornplanter (1732/42 – 1836) was a Dutch-Seneca chief warrior and diplomat of the Seneca people. A contemporary and friend of George Washington, Cornplanter was often referred to as one of the most valiant warriors of his tribe. During the American Revolutionary War he first fought with the British as chief of the Seneca Nation, but when his people were deserted by their British allies he took part in Indian treaties with the American government. For his help during the ensuing Indian war he was given land in several locations.
The figures in our History Makers line of ornaments are a holiday who’s who of the American experience. These ornaments depict key persons in America’s journey from colony to modern nation, and are made using the traditional method of zardozi embroidery. Zari, (meaning gold), is a highly skilled embroidery technique that traditionally uses gold wires and jewels to embellish courtly robes. Zardozi work is a rare and respected craft, with skills passed down from generation to generation. All ornaments are handmade by disadvantaged rural women of Thailand and India aided through Christian Charities and organized by the British company, Saint Nicholas Heritage Designs.
