The Deputy: George Croghan and the Phenomenon of Go-Betweens in 18th Century Frontier Politics

With Malcolm DePalma, Johnson Hall State Historic Site
Tuesday, February 10th, 7pm

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The unofficial term “go-between” refers to one who was a facilitator of relations, primarily between Indigenous and European societies during the colonial era. These were individuals who were able to operate in a multitude of cultural settings and had specific talents for bridging gaps between disparate populations, particularly in frontier settings. They functioned in a variety of capacities from traders to negotiators, warriors to translators and often, as all of the above.

George Croghan was one of the most consequential go-betweens of the 18^th century in North America, especially in his relevance to Sir William Johnson and the diplomatic world at Johnson Hall. Like Johnson, Croghan was an Irish immigrant who began his rise to prominence through the fur trade. During these initial interactions he made efforts to learn Native languages, customs, and diplomacy.  He later married a Mohawk woman and was adopted into Haudenosaunee society, even becoming a sitting member on the council at Onondaga.

Recognizing Croghan’s skill and prominence as a negotiator, Sir William Johnson bestowed upon him the official title of Deputy Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the British. Working under Johnson, Croghan often negotiated on his behalf and was the primary diplomat for the British Empire on the Ohio and Pennsylvania frontier. In addition to his importance as an emissary, Crogan became well known for his involvement in land speculation. He was an integral facilitator in several treaties and land deals including the well known 1768 treaty of Fort Stanwix. Like Johnson, Croghan’s influence and legend would subside in aftermath of the American Revolution.