Thomas
Fitzpatrick
(1799 - February 7, 1854)
Born in Ireland in
1799, Fitzpatrick became a sailor in 1816, arrived in the United States, jumped
ship and headed to St. Louis, Missouri. Here he answered an advertisement for
adventurous young men to explore the Missouri River. Fitzpatrick's career as a
mountain man began.
On this trapping expedition, Thomas noticed a
movement among the rocks. His gunfire alerted the others in the party of an
impending attack. Although four trappers were killed, the result could have been
much worse.
Another Blackfoot attack was averted when Fitzpatrick
gathered 10 fur trappers and headed to an indian encampment. The volleys from
the 11 men seemed like an army. The Indians scattered and broke camp.
On
his way to the Pierre's Hole Rendezvous with packhorses in tow, Fitzpatrick was
ambushed by 30 Gros Ventres. Leaving the packhorses behind, Thomas forced his
horse up a step slope. The resulting falling rocks slowed the pursuit of his
attackers. When his horse gave out, Thomas found refuge in a hole, covered it
with brush. This disguise foiled the pursuit. Without horses, Fitzpatrick walked
to Pierre's Hole living only on roots and berries. The hardship of this journey
turned his hair white.
At the Battle of Pierre's Hole during the
excitement of the battle, Fitzpatrick's gun exploded tearing off two fingers.
The friendly Nez Perce who fought beside Thomas during the battle gave him the
name "Broken Hand".
Later, Fitzpatrick was captured by the Pawnee. When
asked his name, Thomas held up his left hand. The bravery of "Broken Hand" was
known far and wide. The Pawnee released their prisoner.
After the fur
trade industry waned, Fitzpatrick became a scout and guide. In 1841, he led one
of the first wagon trains to Oregon. He guided Father DeSmet and his group to
Oregon with the missionary commending Fitzpatrick's ability. He also guided
Fremont's second expedition in 1843 and when the large party split-up, Thomas
was placed in charge of the second group. Later, he guided Stephen Kearney
through the Rocky Mountains and at the beginning of the Mexican War.
In
1846 because of his experience and knowledge of the area, Fitzpatrick was
appointed Indian Agent for the tribes on the headwaters of the Arkansas. He was
instrumental in a number of peace treaties including the 1851 Fort Laramie
Treaty.
As Indian Agent, Fitzpatrick traveled to Washington D.C. where
he contracted pneumonia and died.
Thomas "Broken Hand" Fitzpatrick is
buried in the Congressional Cemetery in Washington D.C.