American Indian Culture and Research Journal

Although some uncertainty exists regarding the exact date, it is generally believed that Quanah Parker was born in 1845 near Cedar Lake on the southwest edge of the Staked Plains of Texas. Quanah's father was Peta Nocona, a chief of the Nocone band of Comanche warriors. His mother was Cynthia Ann Parker, a white woman taken captive by Comanche raiders in 1836 at the age of nine. During his younger years, Quanah attained prominence as a cunning and resourceful war chief. It was during the period 1875-1911, however, that his reputation as a speaker of great influence and considerable eloquence was established.