Handsome Lake (1735?-1815) was a religious leader of the Seneca, a Native American people. His teachings helped the Seneca and other Iroquois tribes adapt their traditional beliefs to life after the American Revolution (1775-1783), as they struggled to rebuild their homes and adjust to the loss of most of their lands. Handsome Lake’s teachings remain important to many Iroquois people today.
Handsome Lake was born near what is now Avon, New York. His original name is unknown. In the 1790’s, he became a chief of the Iroquois League, a confederation of six Indian nations. He then assumed the title Handsome Lake—in the Seneca language, Ganeodiyo. Other spellings of the name include Skanyadariyoh and Ganiodaiio.
In June 1799, Handsome Lake fell into a coma, then awoke and described a visit from messengers sent by the Creator. This was the first of three major visions that revealed to him the Gaiwiio, which means Good Message or Good Word. In this message, Handsome Lake warned that Native Americans must give up alcohol, witchcraft, and other practices that threatened family and community solidarity. They must revive their ancient cycle of annual ceremonies if they were to survive as a people.
Handsome Lake also encouraged the use of European farming methods and tools, including the plow and the spinning wheel. He died during a visit to the Onondaga Reservation in central New York, where he is buried.
