Chief John Big Tree (1 films)

🎬 Chief John Big Tree — Hollywood Legend

Chief John Big Tree (born Isaac Johnny John; June 2, 1877 – July 6, 1967) was a Seneca actor who appeared in at least 60 films between 1915 and 1950. He was born in Buffalo, New York, and died in Onondaga Indian Reservation, New York. His interment was also there. Big Tree claimed to be one of three Native American chiefs whose profiles were composited to make the portrait featured on the obverse of the United States' Indian Head nickel, designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The other two chiefs were Iron Tail and Two Moons. Though Big Tree claimed that his profile was used to create that portion of the portrait from the top of the forehead to the upper lip, the sculptor himself stated in 1938 that it was another Big Tree (a Kiowa also known as Adoeette), who was the third. Big Tree also claimed to be the sole model for Fraser's most recognized work, the doleful sculpture, End of the Trail. Both of these claims are broadly disputed, and Fraser identified other models. He also appeared on the March 1964 cover of Esquire magazine, in a pose commemorating the Indian Head nickel.

Source: Wikipedia

Our collection features 1 colorized films showcasing Chief John Big Tree's iconic performances in Western and more.