Chief_John_Big_Tree

Chief John Big Tree

Chief John Big Tree

American actor (1877–1967)

Chief John Big Tree (born Isaac Johnny John, June 2, 1877 – July 6, 1967) was a member of the Seneca Nation and an actor who appeared in 59 films between 1915 and 1950. He was born in Buffalo, New York and died in Onondaga Indian Reservation, New York. His interment was also there.

U.S. Indian Head nickel, for which Big Tree claimed he was one of three models used – although the sculptor said that another Chief Big Tree, Adoeette, from the Kiowa tribe was one of his models [1]

Quick Facts Born, Died ...

Big Tree claimed to be one of three Native American chiefs whose profiles were composited to make the portrait featured on the obverse of the United States' Indian Head nickel, designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The other two chiefs were Iron Tail and Two Moons. Big Tree claimed that his profile was used to create that portion of the portrait from the top of the forehead to the upper lip.

James Earle Fraser's sculpture, End of the Trail, for which Big Tree claimed he was the model.

Big Tree also claimed to be the sole model for Fraser's most recognized work, the doleful End of the Trail.[2] Both of these claims are broadly disputed, and Fraser identified other models.[3][4]

He also appeared on the March 1964 cover of Esquire magazine, in a pose commemorating the Indian Head nickel.[5]

Partial filmography

References

  1. [1]
    Robert R. Van Ryzin. "Which Indian Really Modeled?" Numismatic News, February 6, 1990
  2. [2]
    Chief John Big Tree appearance on CBS's I've Got a Secret: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3dITdj2KPw
  3. [3]
    VanRyzin, Robert R. (October 29, 2009). Fascinating Facts, Mysteries and Myths About U.S. Coins. Krause Publications. pp. 10–28. ISBN 978-1440206504.
  4. [4]
    "The History of the Buffalo Nickel - Part I". www.hobbizine.com.
  5. [5]
    "Lifestyle - Mens Health, Career, and Relationship Advice". Esquire.
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