History of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable: The Founder of Chicago Illinois

Jean Baptiste Point du Sable is widely recognized as the founder of Chicago, Illinois, a city that would grow to become one of the most significant metropolises in the United States. Despite the importance of his contributions, Du Sable’s life has often been overlooked in the broader narratives of American history. This article delves into the life, achievements, and enduring legacy of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, exploring how his vision and resilience laid the foundation for the vibrant city of Chicago.

Early Life and Origins

Jean Baptiste Point du Sable’s early life is shrouded in mystery, with many details of his origins remaining unclear. He was born around 1745, though the exact date and location of his birth are uncertain. Most historians believe he was born in Saint-Marc, a port town on the island of Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti), then a French colony. Du Sable was of African descent, likely mixed with French and possibly Indigenous ancestry.

His mother was believed to be an enslaved woman of African heritage, while his father was a French mariner. As a free person of color, Du Sable would have been exposed to both the cultures of Europe and Africa from an early age, shaping his unique identity and worldview. This background would later serve him well as he navigated the complex social and political landscapes of colonial North America.

Arrival in North America

Du Sable’s journey to North America is thought to have begun in the early 1770s. He likely arrived in New Orleans, which was under Spanish control at the time, before making his way north along the Mississippi River. By the mid-1770s, he had settled in the Great Lakes region, where he became involved in the fur trade—a lucrative industry that dominated the economy of the area.

During this period, Du Sable established himself as a skilled trader and entrepreneur. His fluency in multiple languages, including French, English, and several Indigenous languages, allowed him to build strong relationships with various Indigenous tribes, particularly the Potawatomi. These connections were crucial for his success in the fur trade and helped him navigate the complex dynamics of the region.

Establishing a Settlement at the Chicago River

Around 1779, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable made a decision that would forever change the history of the region: he established a permanent settlement at the mouth of the Chicago River, near the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. This location was strategically significant, as it sat at the crossroads of major trade routes connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River and beyond.

Du Sable’s settlement, known as “Eschecagou” or “Chicagou,” became a key trading post in the region. He built a sizable homestead that included a house, barns, a mill, a smokehouse, and a trading post. His property was described by visitors as well-developed and prosperous, a testament to his skills as a trader and farmer. The settlement attracted a diverse population of Native Americans, traders, and settlers, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become the city of Chicago.

Life as a Frontier Trader

As a frontier trader, Du Sable played a critical role in the economic and social life of the region. He traded goods such as furs, pelts, and foodstuffs with both Indigenous peoples and European settlers. His trading post became an essential hub for commerce in the area, fostering relationships between different cultures and communities.

Du Sable’s success as a trader was not only due to his business acumen but also to his ability to maintain peaceful relations with the Potawatomi and other Indigenous groups. His marriage to a Potawatomi woman named Kitihawa (also known as Catherine) further strengthened his ties to the local community. Together, they had two children, Jean and Susanne, and lived a life that blended both European and Indigenous traditions.

Challenges and Legacy in the Early 19th Century

Despite his success, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable’s life was not without challenges. In 1800, after living in Chicago for more than two decades, Du Sable sold his property to Jean La Lime, a French-Canadian trader. The reasons for this sale remain unclear, but some speculate that it was due to increasing tensions between Indigenous peoples and encroaching European settlers or perhaps due to personal reasons.

After selling his Chicago homestead, Du Sable moved to the Peoria area, where he continued to work as a trader and farmer. He lived there for several more years before passing away on August 28, 1818, in St. Charles, Missouri. He was buried in an unmarked grave, and his contributions to the founding of Chicago were largely forgotten for many years.

Rediscovery and Recognition

For much of the 19th century, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable’s role in the founding of Chicago was overlooked or downplayed in historical accounts. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that his story began to receive the recognition it deserved, thanks in part to the efforts of African American historians and community leaders who sought to reclaim his legacy.

In 1913, the Chicago Historical Society recognized Du Sable as the founder of Chicago, and his contributions were officially acknowledged by the city. Since then, numerous honors have been bestowed upon him, including the naming of DuSable High School, the DuSable Museum of African American History, and the DuSable Bridge, which spans the Chicago River near the site of his original settlement.

In 1968, a plaque was placed near the site of Du Sable’s homestead, and in 1987, the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp in his honor. These efforts have helped to solidify Du Sable’s place in history as a pioneering figure whose vision and determination laid the foundation for one of the greatest cities in the world.

The Enduring Impact of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable

Today, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable is celebrated as the true founder of Chicago, a man whose legacy transcends the barriers of race and time. His story is a testament to the contributions of people of African and Indigenous descent in the shaping of American history. Du Sable’s ability to bridge cultural divides and his resilience in the face of adversity continue to inspire generations of Chicagoans and Americans.

The recognition of Du Sable’s legacy also serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity in historical narratives. As more attention is given to the diverse individuals who helped build the United States, figures like Jean Baptiste Point du Sable are finally receiving the acknowledgment they deserve.

Conclusion

Jean Baptiste Point du Sable’s life and achievements are integral to the history of Chicago and the United States. As the founder of Chicago, he laid the groundwork for a city that would grow to become a symbol of opportunity, innovation, and cultural diversity. Today, his legacy lives on in the city’s landmarks, institutions, and the stories told about its origins.

As Chicago continues to evolve and grow, the contributions of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable remain a vital part of its identity. Honoring his legacy not only pays tribute to the past but also helps to inspire future generations to build a more inclusive and equitable future.