Sir William Johnson (1715-74) was an Irishman who became a 
prominent planter and fur trader in the Mohawk Valley. His dealings 
with the Indians were conducted fairly and honestly, earning  the 
admiration of Joseph Brant, was chief of the Mohawks. Johnson's 
Mohawk name was Waraghiyaghey, meaning "Big Business." In 1739, 
he built the fort shown here in Montgomery County and established 
it as an important site for councils, Indian delegations, and for trade 
with both Indians and whites-the Indian council house is on the far 
left, labeled "I." Johnson was an important figure in the French and 
Indian War. In 1759, he captured Fort Niagara from the French, 
defining the northern border of what was to become New York State.