Some History from the Colonies

Mary Musgrove (born Cousaponakeesa, c. 1700 – d. after 1763) was a prominent Creek (Muscogee) woman who played a vital role as a cultural interpreter and diplomat between the Creek people and the English colony of Georgia in the 18th century.

She was the daughter of a white South Carolina trader and a Creek woman who was the sister of "Old Brim," the Emperor of the Creeks. This mixed heritage gave her a unique position as a bridge between two very different worlds.

Her Marriages

Mary married three times. Her third and most historically significant marriage was to the Reverend Thomas Bosomworth, a Christian missionary sent to the young colony.

When the marriage was announced, many in colonial society were surprised. Mary's earlier marriages had been to men of lower social standing, but marrying Thomas Bosomworth gave her entry into the upper echelons of colonial society.

Diplomat and Interpreter

Together, Mary and Thomas Bosomworth travelled into Creek villages carrying messages from General James Edward Oglethorpe (founder of Georgia) and King George II. They returned with replies from Creek leaders and often hosted both Creek and colonial visitors.

They helped teach missionaries the Muskogee language and worked to maintain peace on the frontier while protecting Creek interests.

The Land Controversy

Despite her important diplomatic work, Mary is perhaps best remembered for her controversial land claims.

In 1737, Yamacraw chief Tomochichi granted her land near Savannah. Later, Lower Creek chief Malatchi granted the Bosomworths three of the Sea Islands (Ossabaw, Sapelo, and St. Catherines) that the Creeks claimed as their own.

British officials refused to recognise these grants, arguing that only nations could cede land to nations — not to individuals. Mary pursued her claims for over a decade, even travelling to England. In 1760 a compromise was reached: she received St. Catherines Island and £2,100 in exchange for relinquishing her other claims.