Years active 1915–1950 Children Birdie Johnny John Spouse Clara T Jimerson | Role Actor Name Chief Big | |
Full Name Isaac Johnny John Born July 2, 1877 ( 1877-07-02 ) Michigan, USA Died July 6, 1967, Onondaga Reservation Parents Lucy Johnny John, Lewis Johnny John Movies She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, Western Union, The Iron Horse, The Bold Caballero, The Primitive Lover Similar People James Earle Fraser, Arthur Shields, W S Van Dyke, John Ford, Joseph M Schenck | ||
Chief John Big Tree (June 2, 1877 – July 6, 1967), born Isaac Johnny John, was a member of the Seneca Nation and an actor who appeared in 59 films between 1915 and 1950.
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. 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.
Big Tree also claimed to be the sole model for Fraser's most recognized work, the doleful "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.
He was born in Michigan and died in Onondaga Indian Reservation, New York. His interment was also there.
