Praying Indians Banished to Deer Island in Boston

Praying Indians are banished to Deer Island in Boston without sufficient provisions. The following year, they are executed at Boston Common after being tricked by settlers.

Growing tensions between native tribes and English settlers over land and culture culminate in violent conflict known as King Philips War (1675-1678). Seeking control of the natives, colonists determine that inhabitants of Natick and other Praying Towns - "Praying Indians" - should be banished to Deer Island with little to no provisions. Between 500-1,100 people are sent to the island and as many as half die due to the elements. Many Praying Indians flee to Central Massachusetts to avoid being interned. In 1676, Native people who had fled to avoid Deer Island the year before recall a possible source of food left in the Hopkinton/Ashland area, and resolve to seek it out to avoid starvation. Upon arrival they realize that the stock is empty. Seeking answers they set out for Thomas Eames' home where they encounter his wife and children. The meeting results in a violent confrontation known as the Eames Massacre. As King Philips' War continues, the Massachusetts General Court agrees to protect Praying Indians who "delivered themselves to the English": but ultimately, instead of receiving amnesty, as many as 200 are hanged on the Boston Common.