Elijah Tahamont, known as Dark Cloud, was a Canadian-born American actor who is best known for his roles in The Birth of a Nation, What Am I Bid?, and The Woman Untamed. He was recognized for his contributions to early cinema as both an actor and writer.
Personal and Family Life
Dark Cloud was born on September 20, 1861, in St. Francis Indian Village, Quebec, Canada. He was married to Margaret Camp and had two children with her. He graduated from Carlisle University and was also known as a chief of the Algonquins. Dark Cloud modeled for the famous artist Frederic Remington for nearly 20 years.
Career
Dark Cloud began his acting career in the early 1900s and gained fame for his performances in silent films. He was one of the few cast members of The Birth of a Nation who lived through the American Civil War. His notable works include appearances in The Song of the Wildwood Flute and John Ermine of the Yellowstone. Dark Cloud’s unique heritage and experience brought authenticity to his roles in early Hollywood.
Death and Legacy
Dark Cloud passed away on October 17, 1918, in Los Angeles, California, due to influenza. His life and work remain significant in the history of early American cinema, particularly for Indigenous representation. His contributions continue to be celebrated and remembered by film historians and fans alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Birth of a Nation | 1915-02-08 | General |
| The Song of the Wildwood Flute | 1910-11-21 | Gray Cloud |
| John Ermine of the Yellowstone | 1917-11-05 | Fire Bear (as John Darkcloud) |
| The Spirit of ’76 | 1917-01-01 | Joseph Brant |
| The Squaw’s Love | 1911-09-13 | White Eagle |
| The Woman Untamed | 1920-10-01 | Witch Doctor |
| What Am I Bid? | 1919-04-14 | Dark Cloud (as Chief Dark Cloud) |
| The Mystery of the Hindu Image | 1914-07-25 | 1st Hindu |
| An Indian’s Loyalty | 1913-08-15 | An Indian (uncredited) |
| Sierra Jim’s Reformation | 1914-09-07 | One of Jim’s Gang |
| The Saving Grace | 1914-11-22 |