William Wells (soldier)
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William Wells (c. 1770 – 15 August 1812), also known as Apekonit ("Carrottop"), was the son-in-law of Chief Little Turtle of the Miamis.
Wells was born at Jacob's Creek, Pennsylvania, the youngest son of Captain Samuel Wells. The family moved to Kentucky when William was a small child, and his mother died shortly thereafter. The elder Wells was killed in an Indian raid near Louisville, and the young orphan was sent to live with a family friend. Three years later, he was taken captive by Miamis while on a hunting trip. Wells was 12 years old at the time.
Adopted first by a chief named Gaviahate ("Porcupine"), then by Little Turtle, Wells was raised as a Miami. He eventually married Little Turtle's daughter Wanagapeth ("Sweet Breeze"). He served the tribe as a scout during his father-in-law's wars with the United States.
Later, with Little Turtle's permission, he became an Army officer, serving as a captain in the Legion of the United States, acting as a scout and interpreter for General "Mad Anthony" Wayne. After participating in the Battle of Fallen Timbers, Wells went on to act as an interpreter in treaty negotiations and state visits by Indian chiefs. He the left the Army settled at Fort Wayne, where he farmed and served the United States Indian Agent. Little Turtle died in his home and was buried nearby.
Wells was shot and killed by Potowatamis in the Fort Dearborn Massacre in 1812, while attempting to lead white settlers to safety. He was himself dressed in Indian fashion. His opponents, although considering him a traitor to their cause, nonetheless reportedly ate his heart to gain some of his courage. Wells County, Indiana is named for him.
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