I grew up in Greenfield. I can remember discussions in school about what was called the “Deerfield Massacre” and reading “Boy Captive of Old Deerfield” in fifth grade. I can only remember brief references to the massacre at Turners Falls.
In the last 10 or so years, through my acquaintance with the Friends of Nolembeka and presentations at various programs, I have come to understand that Capt. Turner and his 150 men cruelly murdered over 300 women, children and old people at the peace villiage of Wissatinnuag for the purpose of genocide. Once the native people were wiped out, their lands could be stolen. Remember, all this land was theirs.
I urge people to think about what actually happened that day. While the Native warriors were away, the white English settlers attacked the sleeping village. Capt. Samuel Holyoke earned his fame that day by killing four native children with one swipe of his sword. Native women were chased into the river and killed. Turner and his men stuck their rifles into Native dwellings and fired indiscriminately.
I consider this one of the most shameful chapters in the history of the white man’s relation with the Natives. It is no wonder that few speak about it.
I strongly believe the ”Turners Falls Indians” mascot is at least inappropriate. At most, it is racist.
It is certainly offensive. Even though I am not a resident of Turners Falls, I have lived in the valley for 63 years, and I live about five miles from the falls.
I add my voice to those calling for change to a mascot without the racist connotations.
I also add that the “Village of Turner’s Falls” should be changed to “Village of Great Falls” as a further step to removing the curse.
I would like to see a series of classes in local schools on this subject.
Edward Evans
Greenfield