Significance of Swago Creek for Early Settlers

 

Swago Creek stands out as a significant location for early settlers in Pocahontas County due to its early settlement history, the notable Ewing family, and its connection to Native American heritage.

• Early Settlement: Swago Creek boasts one of the oldest settlements in Pocahontas County. The sources highlight that the prominent Ewing family established their homestead on Swago Creek around 1770, even before the Revolutionary War. This early settlement timeframe makes Swago Creek a focal point in understanding the initial wave of European settlement in the region.
• The Ewings of Swago: The Ewing family played a significant role in shaping the identity of Swago Creek. William Ewing, also known as "Swago Bill", was a well-known figure associated with the creek. Although he wasn't the first settler, his presence contributed to the creek's local history and folklore. It's worth noting that many waterways in Pocahontas County, like Sitlington Creek and Cartmills Creek, were named after prominent early settlers.
• Native American Connection: The name "Swago" itself reflects a strong connection to the region's Native American heritage. According to the sources, the name is believed to derive from the Oawega tribe. The word “Swago” is possibly a fusion of two Indian words: "otaega", meaning "a place of meeting", and "Sago", a traditional Indian greeting. This linguistic link suggests that Swago Creek held cultural significance for indigenous peoples, potentially serving as a gathering place or a location with spiritual value. This association with Native American history further distinguishes Swago Creek as a place of historical interest in Pocahontas County.

The sources suggest that Swago Creek wasn't merely a geographical feature but a place imbued with layers of history and cultural significance. The presence of early settlers like the Ewings, the unique origin of the name "Swago", and the creek's possible role as a Native American meeting point underscore its importance in understanding the rich and multifaceted past of Pocahontas County.