Metallak
is name you will encounter in several place here in New Hampshire. The spelling may vary; Metalluc, Matalak, Metalak, but the reference is to one man.
The last survivor of a band of Native Americans known as the Androscoggin, Cowasuc
k or, more properly, the Arosaguntacook. The band was part of the Abenaki nation.
The Abenaki inhabited the upper Androscoggin and Magalloway rivers along the northern border of New Hampshire and Maine.
Metallak Island in Umbagog Lake and several mountains in the area are named after him. Metallak was the youngest son of Pial, chief of the tribe and was well known by early European settlers.
Metallak was on friendly terms with most. Metallak lived alone was partially blinded by an accident, in his later years. Metallak died a pauper in 1853 at the reputed age of 120.
New Hampshire Historic Market #47 is dedicated to Metallak. The Description on the plaque reads "Hunter, trapper, fisherman, and guide, well and favorably known by the region's early settlers. "The Lone Indian of the Magalloway" was the last survivor of a band of Abenaki inhabiting the Upper Androscoggin. Blinded by accidents, Metallak died a town charge in 1847 at the reputed age of 120."
If you would like to visit Metallak's grave site, he is buried in the North Hill Cemetery. The cemetary is about 10 south of Pittsburg, NH in the town of West Stewartston. Take New Hampshire Route 145, about one mile north of Stewartstown Village. The North Hill Cemetary is on the right hand side of the road on a small knoll. This is a Native American sacred place, please leave any articles you find undisturbed.