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When European settlers arrived in New England, the land that is currently Northumberland Borough was controlled by the Iroquois, also known at that point as the Five Nations. Though the Iroquois themselves did not actually live in the land of Northumberland, they reigned over the Lenni-Lenape (later called the “Delaware Indians”). In doing so, the Iroquois left Shikellamy to oversee the Lenni-Lenape as deputy governor. Shikellamy was baptized and had knowledge of the Christian faith. Accounts describe him as dignified, prudent, and sober; he was also very kind to explorers and missionaries. Additionally, Shikellimy performed Embassies between the present European governments and the Six Nations until his death in 1748.
In 1756, tensions mounted between the settlers in the Northumberland area and the surrounding Native American tribes, particularly the Senecas and Cayugas. To defend against aggressive Native American tribes and the French, Fort Augusta was constructed. Fort Augusta was never used as an offensive military point and served purely defensive and refugee purposes.
Above Information taken from John F. Meggines & Northumberland Point Township (see bibliography)
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