Siouan-Speaking Native Americans in Virginia
The tribes west of the Fall Line, in the Virginia Piedmont and apparently in the Valley of Virginia
west of the Blue Ridge, spoke languages belonging to the Siouan linguistic group. As described
by John Lederer in his journal of explorations in 1669-70:
- "These parts were formerly possessed by the Tacci, alias Dogi; but they are extinct; and the
Indians now seated here, are distinguished into the several Nations of Mahoe, Nuntaneuck, alias
Nuntaly, Nahyssan, Sapon, Managog, Mangoack, Akenatzy, and Monakin, &. One language is
common to them all, though they differ in Dialects." 1
Lederer was able to speak at least some of the native language, and to appreciate the culture of
these tribes. He noted:
- "...I have been present at several of their Consultations and Debates, and to my admiration I
have heard some of their Seniors deliver themselves with as much Judgement and Eloquence as I
should have expected from men of Civil education and Literature." 2
Links
References
1 Lederer, John, The Discoveries of John Lederer,
Readex Microprint, 1966, p. 2
2 ibid, p. 5
The Three Linguistic Groups of Colonial Virginia
"Indians" of Virginia
Geography of Virginia