S8, E4, Part 5: Quanah Parker: The Comanche Warrior Between Two Worlds

Native ChocTalk

In Part 5 of Native ChocTalk’s powerful series on the legendary Comanche warrior Quanah Parker, his descendants share intimate stories about his mother, Cynthia Ann Parker—known to the Comanche as Na'ura (1827–March 1871).

Taken captive at just 9 years old during the Fort Parker Massacre of 1836, Cynthia Ann was raised by the Comanche people, eventually marrying Chief Peta Nocona (also known as Puhtocnocony and Tah-con-ne-ah-pe-ah, c. 1820–1864). Together, they had three children, including Quanah Parker, who would go on to become the last war chief of the Comanche.

This episode explores Cynthia Ann’s heartbreaking journey—from her deep love for her Comanche family to the grief she endured after being forcibly returned to the white world, separated forever from her son and tribe. You’ll hear the haunting lullaby “Where is My Boy Tonight,” a song she sang for years in mourning—and you’ll experience its emotional power as Don Parker, Quanah’s great-grandson, performs it in Comanche.

Also in this episode:

• The sacred Comanche traditions surrounding death and the journey after life
  
• Reflections on faith and identity: Did the Creator know us? Did He walk with our people and provide for us in the ways we lived and survived?

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