EARL PLATO, "BRANT LINEAGE CAUSES DISAGREEMENT," NIAGARA FALLS REVIEW  (SEPTEMBER 23, 2000).

Copyright Niagara Falls Review 2000

"Joseph Brant's parentage has always been the center of some disagreement."

Those are the words of American historian, Bennett. He says: "A few historians (American) have maintained that he was the illegitimate son of an English Baronet, Sir William Johnson."

That's the American historical spin, eh! However, Bennett goes go on to qualify his personal view when he says: "The accepted fact is that his father was Mohawk, as stated."

We, as interested Canadian Loyalists, know that Sir William did have a major role in Brant's life. The young Iroquois was tied to the Johnson family all his life, through loyalty and personal relationship. That's the truth.

Those who follow my column know who William Johnson was. Remember Fort Niagara? Here's a quick review of Sir William.

Sir William Johnson was our British Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs at this momentous time in North American history. He wielded great control.

Think big, really big. His jurisdiction encompassed the area between Lake Cnamplain and Fort Niagara south to Fort Dusquesne (Pittsburg). He was responsible for keeping the British government apprised of all French activities in this vast area. A tremendous responsibility it was but Johnson proved to be capable.

At the outset of hostilities between the French and English, Joseph Brant was only a 13-year-old boy. He was, nevertheless, an active warrior accompanying his stepfather in fighting with the British. Sir William Johnson was the commander of that British colonial militia. Joseph gave a valiant account of himself during the Battle of Lake George. On that field of contest, south of Lake Champlain, Sir William Johnson created his military reputation in 1755 with a resounding victory over the regulars of the French . In turn, Joseph Brant emerged as an Iroquois warrior who would not be forgotten.

Most of you know who Molly Brant was. She was Joseph's older sister who became Sir William's common-law-wife. Molly bore Johnson several children during their relationship. The paintings I viewed in Johnson Hall reflect her natural beauty. Yes, I know Sir William had a white wife during most of his adult years. Again, that's another story.

The histories that I have read say that Sir William was extremely kind to all his Iroquois wards. He consistently showed concern for their welfare. To say that he was loved by most around him would not be far from the truth.

American historians cannot deny that he was an ardent Loyalist. They point out that he revealed concerns for the colonial complaints. Johnson was a listener.

Remember, it was 1774, just before the American Revolution. Unrest in the 113 Colonies had been brewing for years.

What of Joseph Brant? It is not surprising that young Joseph should become a particular favourite of the Superintendent-General. Johnson saw something in young Brant and he selected him to attend the Moor Charity School in Lebanon, Ct. to acquire an education.

At nineteen years of age Joseph Brant's course in life would be altered forever.