Tarhe was born near present-day Detroit, Michigan in 1742. He was born into the Huron tribe, also known as the Wyandots. Tarhe was also known by the nickname "The Crane." Legend states that name is in reference to his tall, slender build.

Like most Indians, Tarhe was against the settlement of the Ohio country by white settlers and fought to prevent the invasion of Indian land. In 1763, the British told the American settlers not to move west of the Appalachian mountains because the land belonged to the Indians. Few settlers listened. As more settlers moved on to Indian lands, fighting increased between the two groups. In 1774, the governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, sent troops to protect white settlements. The Indians led a suprise attack against the troops. Lord Dunmore was enraged. He sent even more troops into the area. Tarhe was important in uniting the Indian warriors against the Virginia military. The Indians attacked the troops as they were stationed on the Ohio River. Both sides suffered huge losses in the Battle of Point Pleasant. The day ended with the Indians retreating.

After the Battle of Point Pleasant, both sides met near to discuss terms for peace. Both sides agreed that the settlers who moved south of the Ohio River would not be attacked by the Indians.

Tarhe supported peace with the settlers. The next time Tarhe led Indians in battle was at the Battle of Fallen Timbers. General Anthony Wayne led the American forces and defeated the Indians. Once again, Tarhe supported making peace with the settlers and signed the Treaty of Greenville. Even after the Treaty of Greenville was signed, other Indian leaders were calling for the Indians to unite against the settlers. Tarhe advised the Wyandots to honor the treaty they had signed.

In 1812, the British and Americans went to war again. Although Tarhe was in his 70's, he fought in the battle along with the American troops. After the War of 1812, Tarhe settled near Upper Sandusky and remained there until he died in 1818 at the age of 76.

from the Ohio Historical Society Site, for much more information, please visit their site!