Simon Girty: The Great Renegade

Simon Girty was born near this stretch of the Susquehanna River and became one of the most polarizing figures of the American frontier. Captured by Seneca warriors in seventeen fifty-six during the French and Indian War, he spent years among them, learning their language and customs. After his release he worked as an interpreter for the Continental Army, but in seventeen seventy-eight he deserted to the British side and never looked back.

For the next two decades he led raids against frontier settlements alongside Native American allies, earning the name the Great Renegade from those who saw him as a traitor. To others, including the Seneca who adopted him, he was a loyal friend and fighter. He spent the War of eighteen twelve in Canada and died there.

Whether villain or loyalist depends on which side of the frontier you stood on.