Initially, the Wyandotte were part of the Huron Confederacy, a group of tribes living in Canada north of Lake Ontario. Their subsistence was based on hunting and fishing.
They were forced to move from their homelands beginning in 1745. By the 1870’s some groups had migrated to Oklahoma after spending time in Ohio and Kansas. During this period of movement they changed to farming for their survival. They harvested crops including red beans, corn, peas, pumpkins, squash, and tobacco.
Today the tribe has a large complex in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, with a library and heritage center. Their health services program is noted for its excellence.
About the Flag:
The turtle on the flag is a symbol of the Wyandotte Nation. The points on its back stand for the 12 original clans. The fire indicates that they are “Keepers of the Council Fire.” The pipe and war club held by the turtle represent the capacity of the Wyandottes to wage peace or war. The willow branches are for lasting life. The colors of the flag: red, white, and black, are the symbolic colors of the Wyandotte Nation.
Great Wyandotte Chiefs
MATTHEW MUDEATER
| 1857 | Matthew Mudeater | Principal Chief |
| 1858 | George I. Clarke | Principal Chief died in office. |
| 1858 | Silas Armstrong | Completed the term of George I. Clarke upon his death. |
| 1858-59 | John Sarahess | Also known as Bearskin, he was elected Principal Chief in August. |
| 1859-60 | Matthew Mudeater | Elected Principal Chief late in the year. |
| 1865 | Silas Armstrong | Elected Principal Chief in August and died in December. |
| 1868-70 | Tauromee | Principal Chief. He died in office on January 15, 1870. |
| 1870 | John Kayrahoo | Served as acting chief after the death of Tauromee. |
| 1870 | John W. Greyeyes. | Principle Chief. The tribe was now at the Neosho Agency in Oklahoma. |
| 1873 | Thomas Punch | Principal Chief. |
| 1875 | Matthew Mudeater | Principal Chief. |
Linda Tippett 