[From Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 12-13]

* * * * * * *

            On the 13th of January last I submitted for your consideration a communication from Superintending Agent Wentworth, informing me that hostilities had, to some extent, commenced with the Indians inhabiting that part of California known as the Owen's River valley, and expressing, in the strongest manner, his apprehensions that a general war would ensue with those Indians unless immediate measures should be adopted by Congress, having for their object the pacification of the Indians, and the securing to them of some portion of the home of their ancestors, where they could live unmolested by the whites. I regret to say that the apprehensions of Superintending Agent Wentworth have since been fully realized. The course of events in this valley is a forcible illustration of the wisdom and importance of entering into treaty relations with the wild Indians of our territories, prior to the occupation of their country. Here was a country extending from the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada to the great desert, inhabited by several thousands of wild and warlike Indians, with whom we have hitherto failed to establish amicable relations, or, indeed, to hold any official intercourse whatever. The country had been in the unmolested possession of this people for generations, and was ample for their sustenance and support. In an evil day for them, it is discovered that their mountain gulches and ravines abound in the precious metals, and forthwith, in utter disregard of the rights of the Indians, and by resorting to precisely the same means as those employed towards the wild beasts of the country, a tide of emigration sets in upon them

COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 13

and begins to despoil them of their homes, the graves of their ancestors, and the means of supplying their rude and simple wants. Surely, it could not be supposed that all this could be accomplished without any manifestations of opposition and hostility on the part of the Indians; and it cannot be doubted that, aside from the humanitarian and moral aspects of the subject, it would have been far more economical had we treated with these Indians; obtained from them by fair purchase such portions of their country as are desirable for our people ; secured to the Indians a location where they could live in peace, and where we could gradually subject them to those influences which would, in the end, reclaim them from their wild and barbarous modes of life. All this, I fully believe, might have been done if we had been prompt to recognize the rights of the Indians, and to prepare them for the occupation of their country. The opportunity has now passed, and it is „probably not an overestimate to say that, besides the valuable lives of our own citizens as well as the lives of the Indians that have already been sacrificed, we have already expended and incurred liabilities in our military operations against these Indians more than double the amount that would have been required to establish relations with them upon the basis of a firm and lasting friendship.

            I have no doubt that hostilities may yet be terminated in this region much more speedily by negotiation than by military power, and that thousands of treasure and many valuable lives may be saved. I trust that the subject will receive from Congress the consideration its importance demands, and that such legislation may be had as will not only result in a speedy termination of these troubles, but will also harmonize the conflicting interests of the whites and Indians throughout the State, and produce in the conduct of our Indian relations that order and system which is so imperatively demanded.

* * * * * * *

__________

[Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 37-38]

            With the exception of a report from Agent Hatch, who is in charge of the Spanish fork reservation in Utah, and Agent Bancroft in Washington Territory, no reports have been received from any of the respective superintendents of Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Washington, and Idaho ; consequently I can present but little information in regard to the wants and requirements of the Indian service within the limits of each.

* * * * *

            Treaties of amity and peace have been concluded with the Shoshones, of Utah and Nevada, as follows, viz : At Fort Bridger, July 2, 1863, by Governor Doty and Agent Mann, as commissioners on the part of the United States, and the eastern bands of said Indians ; at Box Elder, July 30, by Governor Doty and General Connor, on the part of the United States, and the northwestern bands ; and at Ruby valley, October 1, by Governors Doty and Nye, on the part of the United States, and the western bands. These Indians have long been a scourge to the citizens of Utah and Nevada, and a terror to the emigrants and travellers over the routes leading through those Territories. From the representations made by Governor Doty, we have reason to believe that those treaties have been entered into by the Indians with a sincere desire for peace, and I have no doubt that the friendly relations thus inaugurated may be maintained by wise and judicious action on our part. The scarcity of game in these Territories, and the occupation of the most fertile portions thereof by our settlements, have reduced these Indians to a state of extreme destitution, and for several years past they have been almost literally compelled to resort to plunder in order to obtain the necessaries of life. It is not to be expected that a wild and

38        REPORT OF THE

warlike people will tamely submit to the occupation of their country by another race, and to starvation as a consequence thereof. It was perhaps unavoidable that, in taking possession of these Territories, hostilities should ensue between our own people and the Indians, as the latter knew but little of the vast disparity between their resources and power and our own, and consequently would not listen to any reasonable propositions on our part. Much credit is due to General Connor and the forces under his command, for their prompt and efficient services in chastising these Indians for their outrages and depredations upon the whites, and in compelling them to sue for peace. Now that this desideratum has been attained, I respectfully recommend that measures be taken for the negotiation of further treaties with the Indians, having for their object the extinguishment of their title to the soil, and the setting apart of a suitable portion of the public domain upon which they may be concentrated, and so provided for that they need not be compelled to resort to plunder in order to sustain life.

            On the 7th and 14th of July last, councils were held by Governor Doty and General Connor with the various bands of Utes, of Utah, and a verbal agreement for peace and friendship was made with them, so that it is now practicable to negotiate a treaty with them. I also respectfully recommend that measures be immediately taken for that purpose.

* * * * * * *

__________

pp. 56-60

56 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 2.

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Salem, Oregon, September 28, 1863.

            SIR : The enclosed extracts from the official report of Major (now Lieutenant Colonel) Charles S. Drew, commanding at Camp Baker, Jackson county, Oregon, to Brigadier General Wright, commanding department of the Pacific, furnishes much information in regard to southeastern Oregon valuable to the Indian department as well as to the military. I request, if it does not arrive too late, that it be published with my annual report for this year.

            The necessity for treating with the Indians of that region, and bringing them under the control of the department, has been fully set forth in my letter to your office of June 1 last, as well as my annual report, and is too apparent to require further remark from me.

            I trust the subject will receive from you at an early day the consideration which its importance merits.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. PERIT HUNTINGTON,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs in Oregon.

Hon. WILLIAM P. DOLE,

            Commissioner, &c., Washington, D. C.

__________

No. 3.

CAMP BAKER, Oregon, February 20, 1863.

            GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your request of the 27th ultimo for a sketch of the Klamath Lake country, and for my views as to the necessity for a military post there, and, in compliance, very respectfully submit the following:

            If I have treated the subject under discussion more fully than its merits have heretofore seemed to require, or should it appear that I have exceeded the proper limits of your inquiry, I beg that you will not attribute to me any want of respect to my superiors, or any intentional officiousness in laying before you some facts that are not of record at department headquarters, and are not now specifically called for. My chief desire in the premises is to render all the service in my power during the short period in which I am likely to have the opportunity to render any at all ; and as I have been personally cognizant of all that has transpired of a hostile character in this region of country since its earliest settlement, I may seem unduly zealous in representing its necessities. But I trust not. Rather that, however, than that I should hereafter be considered as having neglected to perform a well-known duty.

            I have been more thorough in my observations concerning the old route (the southern Oregon emigration road) via "Applegate Pass," and have noted distances beyond the points of your inquiry, in order that it might the more readily appear how important it is that this road should be kept open to the overland emigration, as well as to show its value as a public thoroughfare to and from the Humboldt and Washoe mines for nearly all of Oregon and a large portion of California.

            Military protection is not a necessity of recent or present origin, as I will endeavor to demonstrate before I close this report, by citing the actual murders of which it has been the scene, but a necessity of at least sixteen years stand-

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 57

ing, for travel upon it since its first exploration, in 1846, by Jesse Applegate, esq., has never been secure from depredations by the Indians, except for large parties who were more or less acquainted with their character, and kept continually guarded against them.

            What is true, in this respect, of this route, is also true of all others which traverse the country in any direction whatever between the Upper Willamette, Umpqua, Rogue River, and Shasta valleys, and the Humboldt region, and its entire vicinity.

            The new wagon route from Yreka northward, via the Klamath lakes to its intersection with the Dalles trail, thence the old trail to Des Chutes river, and thence the trail of Ross towards the John Day river, stand next in importance to the southern Oregon emigrant road as public thoroughfares, as these are the most direct overland routes from northern California and southern and middle Oregon to all the region of country known as the Salmon mines.

            With regard to the necessity for, and the location of, a military post in the Klamath Lake region, I have to report that I deem it indispensable to the public safety in this vicinity that a post should be established there at the earliest date practicable, whether the treaty with the Indians (the authority for which is now pending in Congress) is effected or not.

            Having represented the Indians in the Klamath Lake region as justly denominated hostile, and that a military post there is absolutely necessary, I will now cite such murders as they are known to have committed within the few years past to illustrate, as fully as possible, the actual condition of affairs under consideration, and that the service suggested is of the greatest public importance.

            The Klamath Lake, Modoc, and Pah-Ute Indians, so far as relates to their general character, are virtually one tribe, and none of them are in the least reliable for any good whatever. On the contrary, it is susceptible of the clearest demonstration that they are a horde of piratical thieves, highwaymen, and murderers, cowardly sycophants before the white man's face, and perfidious assassins behind his back. Their history, so far as is generally known, begins with the summer of 1846, the date of the first overland emigration via what is now known as the southern Oregon emigrant road. Their operations that year were mainly of a thieving character, the emigration having been a surprise to them, and allowing no time to mature a concert of action for more bloody purposes, such as they adopted in subsequent years. They made a beginning, however, by murdering one, if not more of that year's emigration, and committing many thefts and robberies. Their point for attack was at a place on Rhett or Tule lake, now known as "Bloody Point," and situated ten miles southeast of the "Natural Bridge," on Lost river.

             The following year, 1847, Levi Scott, of Oregon, and of the previous year's emigration, returned with a small party along this route to make further explorations, but, on arriving near Goose lake, was attacked by Indians, wounded, and had one of his party, named Garrison, killed. At the same time an entire train -- twenty-three persons or upwards -- were massacred at Bloody Point.

            In 1849 another train of eighteen or more persons were also massacred at the same place.

            September 26 the same year, Captain Warner, of the United States engineer corps, and several of his party, were murdered near Goose lake.

            In 1851 Charles Smith, Reason Haines, and _____ Terwilliger were murdered near the head of Des Chutes river.

            In August, 1852, John Ormsby, James Long, Felix Martin, Mr. Coats, Mr. Wood, and thirty-four of the overland emigration, were murdered at Bloody Point. Ormsby, Long, and Coats were citizens of Yreka, and, in company with several others, had gone out to protect some friends whom they expected overland against the identical Indians by whom they themselves were murdered. Martin and Wood were of the emigration, as were the thirty-four not accounted

58 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE

by name. It is very evident, however, that the murders here reported fall far short of the actual numbers committed. Such was the opinion, at that time, of those who visited the scene and buried such of the bodies as they happened to find.

            Two volunteer companies from Yreka, under Charles McDermit, now major, second cavalry California volunteers, and Ben. Wright, subsequently Indian agent, and murdered by Rogue River Indians, February, 1856, and one company from Jacksonville, under Colonel John E. Ross, proceeded to the scene of slaughter with all possible despatch. These were soon followed by Major Fitzgerald, United States army, with a detachment of dragoons. The companies from Yreka arrived just in time to save the complete destruction of a train of sixteen wagons and about sixty persons. These companies found and buried thirty-nine bodies. The body of one female only was found, and none of children, though evidences were numerous that numbers of each had been murdered. The hair from a woman's head was found in one of the Indian camps then deserted, and various articles pertaining to the nursery were also found in the same and similar places. Subsequently, too, the Indians of Umpqua valley exhibited an unusual number of dresses and other articles of female apparel, which they alleged they had obtained from the Indians at Klamath lake.

            It was the belief of the relieving parties, and of many of the emigration who had an opportunity to know much about it, that as many or more persons than are here reported were murdered, whose bodies were not found, and it is probable that this estimate is not more than correct. If so, the total is at least seventy-eight.

            In 1853 the Indians were anticipated in their designs by a volunteer force being sent to meet the emigration before its arrival at the usual points of attack. The result was, it passed unharmed.

            In January, 1854, Hiram Hulen, J. Clark, J. Oldfield, and Wesley Mayden, of Shasta valley, were murdered near Lower Klamath lake, while in pursuit of horses which the Indians had stolen and were driving away.

            June 15 the pack train of Gage & Claymer was attacked and captured on the post road over the Siskiyou mountains, between Yreka and Jacksonville, and Mr. Gage was killed. The main object of the attack was to obtain ammunition, of which the Indians secured an ample quantity. The designs of the Indians to again waylay the emigrant road were frustrated by another volunteer force being sent there by the governor of Oregon, and the emigration came through safely.

            September 2, however, on the middle Oregon route, _____ Stuart was murdered while going out to meet some friends whom he desired to have come in by that road.

            In 1855, September 2, Granville M. Keene was murdered near the mouth of Applegate Pass, while, with others, he was in pursuit of horses the Indians had stolen.

            September 24 they waylaid the post road over the Siskiyou mountains again, and murdered Calvin M. Field and John Cunningham, and next day Samuel Warner, near the same spot.

            No military force being provided for the emigrant route this year, it was effectually blockaded, and no emigration allowed to pass over it.

            In 1856 a volunteer force was sent by the governor of California into the Klamath Lake country, and the route fully protected.

            In 1857 no force of any kind was sent there, and the road was again effectually blockaded.

            In September, 1858, Felix Scott and seven other persons were murdered near Goose lake, and several thousand dollars' worth of blooded horses captured. Other parties were also robbed of much valuable stock at the same time.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 59

            In 1859 the Pah-Utes turned their attention towards the settlement of Honey Lake valley and Gravelly ford, on the Humboldt. Of the depredations they committed there I have no accurate memoranda. That they were considerable, however, both upon life and property, cannot be questioned.

            In 1860, August _____, Eli Ledford, Samuel Probst, James Crow, S. F. Conger, and James Brown were murdered in Rancheria prairie, thirty-five miles east of Jacksonville, and close upon the eastern border of the settlements of Rogue River valley.

            In 1861 Lieutenant Alexander Piper, third United States artillery, with sixty-two men, was stationed for a few months in the Klamath Lake country.

            But the result was less beneficial beyond the point where Lieutenant Piper was stationed, for near Goose lake Joseph Bailey, Samuel Evans, and Edward Simms were murdered, John Sheppard and others badly wounded, and nine hundred and ten head of fine cattle taken.

            The aggregate of all these murders is one hundred and twelve, exclusive of the estimate for the year 1852 -- thirty-nine -- and the number of Warner's party, who shared his fate. Assuming this estimate to be correct, and it is very evident that it is not any too large, and independent of the number of Warner's party, of which I have no data for an estimate, and the aggregate is increased to one hundred and fifty-one.

            How many were wounded during the commission of these murders, some mortally, and others maimed for life, perhaps, and escaped, it is of course impossible to say. Two for every one killed is probably a fair estimate. This would give three hundred at least, and a total of killed and wounded of four hundred and fifty-one -- equal to twenty-eight per annum for the last sixteen years.

            The value of property destroyed during this period cannot fall short of three hundred thousand dollars. The loss to citizens of this vicinity alone, to which there are witnesses yet living, exceeds seventy thousand dollars probably.

            All these murders and depredations have been committed without the least provocation, and in no instance have the Indians been punished. Success has rendered them more and more insolent and defiant, and consequently the more formidable and dangerous enemies.

            The Indians with whom I have recommended treaties being made at the earliest date possible are : La Lake's and Old George's bands of Klamaths, the Modocs, and Ou-a-luck's band, located in Eureka valley, further northward, nearer the latitude of the Dalles. From the best information obtainable, there are of these several bands something over nine hundred warriors in times of comparative peace. This number, however, would be greatly augmented in a time of declared war, by acquisitions from the Pitt River, Pah-Utes, and roaming bands of Snakes.

            In a military point of view, these Indians occupy a strip of country in the direct line of the settlements of the Upper Willamette, Umpqua and Rogue River valleys, in Oregon, and Shasta valley, in California -- the line of division being only the range of mountains which skirt these valleys along their eastern boundaries, and through which there are numerous passes leading direct from the Indian country into all of them. Of these passes, which are in general use by the Indians, there are three leading into the Willamette valley, one into the Umpqua, three into Rogue River, and three into Shasta and Cottonwood valleys, and all are of a character to afford the most ample cover to the approach of an enemy to the very borders of each of the settlements. There is not a neighborhood in any of the valleys named that could not be penetrated by the Indians from these passes to its very centre in a single night, and ample time left to make a safe retreat back to them before morning.

            By good leadership, and a concert of action on the part of the four bands of Indians named, all the settlements of these valleys might be seriously damaged.

60 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY.

if not nearly destroyed, before any organization for defence could possibly be made, or assistance rendered from any military post. This is the only military station upon this exposed line of frontier, extending from the northward of where the middle Oregon emigrant road enters the Willamette valley, southward to the head of Shasta valley, in California, a distance of over four hundred miles. In case of an emergency, such as may at any time occur, Fort Vancouver, three hundred miles to the northward, and Fort Crook, one hundred and seventy miles southward, are the only posts from which this could be re-enforced ; and in the event of re-enforcements being necessary, it is hardly probable that they could be obtained from either, as at Fort Vancouver very few troops are ever stationed at a time of year when their services would be required here, and at Fort Crook a sufficient number only are kept to hold in check the Pitt River and other Indians of that immediate neighborhood.

            All of which is respectfully submitted.

            I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. S. DREW, Major 1st Cav. O. V.

Brigadier General GEORGE WRIGHT,

            Commanding Department of the Pacific.

__________

[Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 99-107]

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 99

No. 36.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA,

San Francisco, September 1, 1863.

            SIR : I have the honor to submit the following as my annual report for the

fiscal year ending June 30, 1863.

THE OWEN'S RIVER INDIANS.

            In October, 1862, I had the honor of submitting to the department a special report in relation to these Indians, their condition, wants, and the immediate necessity of an appropriation of $30,000 for their relief.

            Congress, as I am informed through the representations made to its members, in private, by honorable A. A. Sargent, did not make the desired appropriation Mr. Sargent stated to members of that honorable body that the amount asked for was too much, and unnecessary, as there were not five hundred Indians in the whole valley of Owen's river country. The correctness of Mr. Sargent's information can be estimated by the fact that eight hundred and fifty Owen's river Indians were delivered by the military, at the Tejon reserve, on the 22d day of July last, and this number comprises only about one-third of the Indians of that valley. In that report, I pointed out the danger of delay. Subsequent events in the Owen's river valley have proved to the letter the predictions therein contained, and the government has expended nearly ten times the amount asked for in that report in trying to suppress the present Indian war. Had Congress promptly made that appropriation, no Indian war would have been waged, and the country would have been saved more than two hundred and fifty thousand dollars to its treasury, the lives of many of its valuable citizens, and many of the poor, ignorant, misguided  Indians, to whom the government have promised protection, would to-day, instead of being dead, be living and tilling the soil of their native valley, and, through their own willing hands, obtaining an honest and well-earned livelihood.

            These Indians, like all others of their race, are very exacting, and a promise to them unfulfilled they look upon as a just cause for war. Therefore it is of the utmost importance that Congress awaken to the necessity of giving, in future, heed and consideration to the reports of its agents upon the condition, and wants of the Indians under their respective charges.

            By heeding the reports of its agents, who are upon the ground and ought to know the wants of the Indians far better than those who are so remote from them, oftentimes formidable and expensive wars will be averted, and the condition of the Indians vastly improved.

            Owing to the recent and extensive mines discovered in the Owen's river valley, and the consequent rush of miners and settlers there, I deem that locality for an Indian reserve entirely impracticable, and the present war fully demonstrates that the Indian and white race can never live peacefully in close proximity to each other. I have, therefore, to recommend the abandonment of that valley for an Indian reservation. The mines, which are of unsurpassed richness, will cause thousands to permanently settle there during the coming year, and, as heretofore, throughout all California, the rights of the Indians will be disregarded, and constant turmoil and war will be but a natural result.

            With these facts before me, I deem it for the welfare of my department of the Indian service in California imperatively necessary to remove these Indians from that valley; therefore, when applied to by General Wright, I consented to receive them at the Tejon Indian reservation.

            In proof of what I say, and also to show how unfair, mean, and atrocious white men will sometimes act, I have only to copy the following from a letter published by Captain Roper, of the 2d California volunteers, in the Esmeralda Star, of July 30:

100      CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

            " On July 11 Captain McLaughlin, Captain Noble, and myself, with 100 men and 25 six-mule teams, started for the Tejon reservation with all the Indians which have been gathered in, numbering about 1,000 men, women, and children. At Hot Spring valley, near Keysville, we received orders to abandon the post. Captain McLaughlin and company returned to make the necessary preparations. We expect to leave in a few days, when some teams, now on the road, arrive to move us. Captain McLaughlin, company D, and Captain Noble, company E, will occupy Fort Tejon, and I, with company E, will camp for the summer on the south fork of Kern river.

            " The people of this valley are now anxious that we should remain here, as they fear a renewal of hostilities when the post is abandoned ; and I cannot say that I deem the anxiety wholly unfounded. By the acts of a few of them the settlement of this difficulty has been much retarded and partially defeated, and there is much reason to fear that the future holds more trouble. While the war was actually in progress, and the Indians really hostile, there were but few of the citizens who could be induced to risk themselves in the mountains unless they were with a large force of soldiers, and these few did nobly; but as soon as a cessation of hostilities was proclaimed by the commanding officer, these stay-at-home fellows grew wondrous brave, and boldly declared their deadly animosity to the whole red race. Two Indian messengers that were sent from the post to the White Mountain district to gather in those Indians were fired upon by some chivalrous miners, although the messengers were unarmed and bore a white flag. Of course they never returned, and to-day prospectors are in danger of their lives. Then, again, a Tehachape Indian, who had been for three months in irons, was released and sent home to induce his tribe to cease hostilities and come in. With what would have been considered astonishing good faith in even a white man, he seems to have worked faithfully to accomplish his mission, and was returning with a number of his people—men, women, and children—when they were fired upon in the most cowardly manner by three whites while they were sitting in their camp only fifteen (15) miles from the post ; two men and one little girl were killed, and all were scalped by these brave and chivalric gentlemen, who rode off and exhibited their bloody trophies of the war. At the Big Lake the recollection of their glorious deeds so stirred their noble souls that they became slightly oblivious, and in that state one of the noble trio, Frank Whetson, was arrested by Lieutenant French, who had been 'sent for him.' The gentleman is now in our guard-house in irons, and awaits, an order for trial. Of the Indians who escaped from this attack, most of them made their way into the mountains, where they now are, and where they will remain, for all that any one can do to drive them out. Never again can any of them be induced to place any faith in the promises of white men, and if another outbreak occurs it will be far the most desperate we have seen. I should have mentioned that the last party of Indians also bore a white flag, travelled openly in the road in the daylight, and that their purpose was well known to every one. But for such ruffians as those who fired upon them, unarmed as they were, there would not to-day be a hostile Indian in this entire country; and those who may hereafter suffer will have Mr. Whetson and others of his ilk to thank for it."

            The foregoing will give the Commissioner some idea of the obstacles we have to contend with in the management of Indian affairs in the southern district of California. Again, how important that adequate appropriations should be made by Congress to enable the agent to reasonably provide for the poor destitute savages under his charge.

COLORADO DISTRICT INDIANS.

            These Indians, from lack of means, have had comparatively nothing done for them, and, although now quiet, hear far the future. They have been promised by the military and other unauthorized parties blankets, farming implements,

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.         101.

and beef. These promises, from lack of means sufficient, I have not been able to respect. This district, which extends east and west from the Mojave to the Colorado river, to the Pacific coast, and southward to the boundary line between California and Mexico, contains upwards of ten thousand warlike Indians, who, if once it breaks out in open war, would cause the sacrifice of hundreds of the lives of our most loyal countrymen who are now engaged in developing the mineral resources of that very rich country, and would also cost the government millions to suppress.

            With a comparatively small amount of money judiciously expended in the purchase of annuity goods, farming implements, and a few good working mules, with suitable wagons and harness, a permanent peace might be secured with these Indians, and their wretched condition would be much improved.

            The amount necessary for this purpose is twenty-five thousand dollars. Less than this would be inadequate to the pressing wants of these people. It would be necessary to purchase several hundred head of American cows, for breeding purposes, for beef, and milk. I would suggest that the same be appropriated under the following heads :

            200 head American cows, at $20 per head.                $4, 000

            200 head marketable steers for beef, at $18                 3, 700                       

            Annuity goods                                                               6, 000

            Four wagons, at $250                                                    1, 000

            Thirty good American mules, at $200                          6, 000           

            Farming implements                                                     1, 300

            Freight and transportation                                            3, 000

            Total                                                                            25, 000           

                                                                                                =======

            With this amount, thus expended, these Indians would be placed in comfortable circumstances, and hereafter would require but little assistance from the government. Without this assistance I fear trouble with them in the future. They have been told, time and again, that the government would assist them, but as yet they have not received anything. They think that they have to look to the government for all their wants, and when they get nothing they begin to find fault, and soon commence their depredations upon the property of the whites, stealing stock, &c., which always results in a war. And a war with these tribes would be formidable and very costly to the country.

TEJON RESERVE.

            To the importance of securing a title to this desirable Indian farm, I had the honor of calling the attention of the Hon. late Secretary of the. Interior, Caleb B. Smith, while in Washington, March, 1862; and also in my annual report to the department of August 30, 1862, and published in the Commissioner's report, page 325, may be found the following language : " And I therefore repeat the suggestions made in a former report, to have the Tejon reservation surveyed, and the land set apart by an act of Congress for the exclusive use of the Indians," this reservation being particularly well adapted.

            In this connexion, I would urge upon the department the importance of holding possession of so desirable an Indian farm. It is, I believe, claimed by private parties under a Spanish grant. I am of the opinion, however, that the United States have the best title to it, and I would respectfully suggest that the Secretary of the Interior instruct the United States district attorney of the northern district to examine into the title of said property, as it is one of the most desirable locations for an Indian reservation within the whole southern country. This fine farm is now claimed, under patent from the United States,

102      CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.  

by E. F. Beale, esq., who demands rent for its further use as an Indian reserve, as will fully appear by the following correspondence:

SAN FRANCISCO, July 24, 1863.

            SIR : I have just heard, with great surprise, that eight hundred Indians of the most hostile Owen's river tribe have been removed, under your direction, to my ranch of "El Tejon," of which I showed you the patent some two months since. My informant also states that my orchard and vineyard have already been destroyed by the cattle furnished these savages, and that not a vestige of garden remains.

            Under these circumstances, I look to you for redress, and ask you on what grounds you propose to occupy for public purposes land which the courts have always decided to be private property, and which is protected by the sanctity of patent from the government.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. F. BEALE

J. P. H. WENTWORTH,

            Superintendent Indian Affairs.

            To which I had the honor to make the following reply :

OFFICE OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Southern District of California, July 29, 1863.

            SIR : I have received your letter in relation to the Tejon ranch, and have the honor to reply as follows :

            There can be no question whatever between us regarding your title to that estate. Your patent is full and complete, and I yield the possession of the property under that title without reserve and on the instant. Nevertheless, I submit to you that the government would be subjected to infinite loss and vexation, and confusion of its Indian affairs by precipitate action on your part in the ejectment of the Indians ; and I have to request that you will forbear in the assertion of your rights in the premises until I can make some arrangement for the Indians now there. In the mean time I promise to urge upon the department a prompt settlement with you for all the injuries done by the Indians or the cattle placed on the ranch for their consumption.

            Please inform me, at your earliest convenience, at what rate you would be willing to rent such portions of your estate as might be required for the use of the Indians, or if you are disposed to sell the whole or a portion of it.

            I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN P. H. WENTWORTH,

Superintending Agent.

Hon. E. F. BEALE, San Francisco.

__________

SAN FRANCISCO, July 29, 1863.

            SIR: I have received your letter giving me possession of the patented ranch " El Tejon," and making certain inquiries as to my disposition to dispose of part or the whole of it, or to rent such a portion as may be requisite for Indian purposes. To this I reply that I have no desire to sell or rent any portion of it, as I am largely engaged in stock raising, and shall probably require the whole in a few years.

            As you state, however, that you will be inconvenienced by immediate removal, I will rent you twelve thousand acres, at the rate of one dollar per annum per acre, which is less, I believe, than the department is paying at present

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.         103

for the same on Tule river, which is certainly infinitely less desirable in every respect.          Very respectfully, your obedient servant,        

E. F. BEALE.

J. P. H. WENTWORTH, Esq.,

            Superintendent Indian Affairs.  

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA,

San Francisco, August 10, 1863.

            SIR: In response to your letter of the 29th July, offering to rent the ranch, or a portion thereof, of "El Tejon," for Indian purposes, I have to say the offer will be immediately forwarded to the department at Washington for approval or rejection. As soon as an answer can be obtained you will be duly notified.

            I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN P. H. WENTWORTH,

Superintending Agent.

Hon. E. F. BEALE,

            Surveyor General of the State of California.

__________

SAN FRANCISCO, August 11, 1863.

            SIR: I have received your letter of the 10th instant. You say you have received my letter offering to rent a portion of my ranch for Indian purposes, &c., &c.

            This does not by any means convey a proper idea of our correspondence. In reply to your letter of the 29th ultimo, in which you say you would like me at my earliest convenience to state at what price I would be willing to rent a portion of the ranch for Indian purposes, I replied in my letter of July 29 as follows:

            "I have received your letter giving me possession of the patented ranch 'El Tejon,' and making certain inquiries as to my disposition to dispose of part or the whole of it, or rent such portion as may be required for Indian purposes: To this I reply that I have no desire to sell or rent any part of it, as I am largely engaged in stock raising, and I shall probably require the whole in a few years. As you state, however, that you will be inconvenienced by immediate removal, I will rent you 12,000 acres, at the rate of one dollar per annum per acre, which is less, I believe, than the department is paying at present for the reserve on Tule river, which is certainly infinitely less desirable in every respect."

            This puts quite a different face upon the matter. I do not choose to go before the public as desiring to rent to the government, as your letter, without explanation, might lead any one to believe. On the contrary, if I rent at all, it will only be as a great favor, and one only reluctantly granted. I require the whole of my ranch, and have purchased it for a purpose which would be altogether disarranged by such a disposition of it.

            I now inform you that I will on no account rent to the hostile and vicious Indians whom you have lately removed there, and whose presence endangers at all times the lives of my people and neighbors. Those savages, fresh from the experience of last summer, in which they once or twice defeated the soldiers sent against them by the government, and committed the most atrocious murders and outrages, may at any time break out again into open mutiny, one hour of which might cost me my entire stock of sheep, horses, and cattle, and the lives of valuable employes and neighbors. I therefore request you to remove these dangerous and hostile Indians from my property immediately.

104      CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

            As for the very large number of Indians who were there before, and who have occupied this place under the government protection for twelve years without paying rent, all of whom I know, while I would prefer their removal I shall not urge it, but request you to regard my reply of July 29, consenting, at your request, to rent a portion of the ranch as a reserve, as relating to them alone.

            Your obedient servant,

E. F. BEALE.

J. P. H. WENTWORTH, Esq.,

            Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

            Could the government by any means have secured this desirable rancho, a home comfortable and pleasing to the poor Indians would have been the result; but, as it is, I regret to report the Indians of that locality very much discontented, and many of them even discouraged. The Indian likes to know that the land which he assists is his own, and that no one can drive him therefrom. With this knowledge it is a very easy matter to domesticate him and cause, him to become industrious and happy.

            At this reserve I caused to be made last spring great preparations for a crop ; but owing to the drought, (the severest that has occurred in the southern portion of California for years,) together with the grasshoppers, it was nearly all destroyed. The following will show the number of acres which were cultivated and harvested at the Tejon during the past year :

            By Indians, 250 acres ; government farms, 500 acres; total, 750 acres. Wheat saved, 4,000 bushels; barley saved, 2,000 bushels.

            The drought and the grasshoppers destroyed almost entirely the vegetable crop, which otherwise would have been very abundant. My supervisor, Mr. Berchutte, saved 30 tons of hay.

TULE RIVER INDIAN FARM.

            Owing to the difficulties at Owen's river, and the patenting of the Tejon to Hon. E. F. Beale, I have been obliged to continue renting this farm for a term of two years, at a rent of one thousand dollars per year. It contains twelve hundred and eighty acres of very superior land, and is well adapted to the wants of the Indians of that locality and now residing upon the farm, and numbering about seven hundred. Mr. Madden, the proprietor, gives the use of a very fine vineyard and also a fine orchard of fruit trees. These the Indians prize very highly, and during the fruit season afford them a great means of subsistence. It will be seen, by reference to my colleague's accounts, that the rent which the government is paying for this farm is very low indeed, about seventy-eight cents per annum per acre ; while Mr. Hanson is obliged to pay five dollars per annum per acre for farming land at Smith's river.

            I am happy to inform the Commissioner that these Indians are quiet and comparatively happy. The drought ruined their grain crop, which consisted of about 250 acres, principally wheat. Everything, however, looks favorable for a wet season, and I am making preparations to put in a large crop of grain and vegetables the coming year. The necessity of continuing this farm will appear when I inform the Commissioner that there is no place, aside from this farm, within my district to which these Indians could be removed for the present. With a propitious season, the wants of these Indians will, in a great measure, be met, and the government will be put to very little expense for their maintenance for the coming year. These Indians have, from time to time, given valuable information in regard to the movements of their more warlike neighbors of Owen's river, and when solicited to join in their war against the whites, have absolutely refused.

            In conclusion, I have to say that the Indians within this district are as happy

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.         105

as they well can be under the present reservation system, with the exception of the Owen's river Indians.

            I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. P. H. WENTWORTH,

Superintending Agent, Southern District of California.

Hon. Wm. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

__________

No. 37.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Southern District of California, December 3, 1862.

            SIR : I desire to call your attention to the Indians of my district inhabiting what is known as the Owen's river country, lying on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada. I desire to make a special report on the condition of those Indians, because they need the attention of the government most, and have received it less than those of any portion of the State.

            On my return from Washington last May, I found the southern country filled with apprehension of a destructive Indian war, threatening to desolate the sparsely settled region bordering on the Great Desert. Already hostilities had commenced, and several victims had fallen, before the United States troops, ordered by General Wright, arrived on Owen's river. As soon as I could arrange the affairs of my office I started to the scene of difficulties, accompanied by one of my supervisors, Mr. Gody, (an accomplished interpreter,) taking with me a quantity of annuity goods, provisions, &c., for distribution amongst them. On my arrival I despatched runners to the different tribes, inviting them to a council, and was happy to find my call readily responded to. After telling them of the folly of endeavoring to oppose the government that was desirous of aiding them, and assuring them that while any indication of rebellion would meet with prompt and severe punishment, good behavior would secure its fostering care. I found them willing to live in peace, and anxious to cease hostilities if the government will only afford them protection and means of support.

            The past winter was one of universal severity. Game, upon which they subsisted in former years, is fast disappearing with the encroachments of civilization; and although the General Land Office has withheld from sale a reservation for those Indians, much of the best portion of it has been settled by whites and the Indians driven off. I laid off a reservation of about six townships, bounded by the Big Pine creek on the north, George's creek on the south, Owen's river on the east, and the Sierra on the west. The amount of land will seem large for the number of Indians, (about 2,000,) but it must be remembered that it is only in small spots that it is susceptible of cultivation, the balance being scarcely fit for grazing purposes, and none of it attractive to settlers. Placed on a reservation where the agent's authority is respected by the emigrants, and where they know they are secure from interference and are treated with kindness, experience has demonstrated there is no difficulty in managing the Indian. The troubles in the State have always arisen outside of the reserves.

            Should the department agree with me, as I trust it will (for I see no other way of keeping those Indians quiet,) I hope it will recommend to Congress the immediate appropriation of $30,000 for the purpose of enabling me to establish this reservation. That sum, judiciously expended in the purchase of seed, stock cattle, mules, wagons, ploughs, &c., would place those wretched people beyond the necessity of stealing for a livelihood, and would relieve the government from any further expense for their support, as well as dispense with the necessity of maintaining an expensive military post in a country where everything has to be

106      CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

hauled a distance of 300 miles over a sandy road, with water only at long intervals, and every obstacle to surmount which is objectionable for a military depot. Already the government has expended many thousands of dollars in sending and keeping troops there to suppress difficulties that would never have occurred had Congress appropriated, a year ago, for this reservation.

            The discovery of gold and silver mines in the ranges of the mountains on the borders of the Great Basin make what was three years ago an unknown region at this time a great thoroughfare; and the importance of averting such a calamity as an Indian war is more pressing, as it would prevent travel and deprive the country of valuable resources made known by the energies of our hardy pioneers.

            It would be impossible to remove the Indians of the more southerly portion of my district to this proposed reservation, because the rigor of the climate is such that it would be difficult to keep them during the inclement part of the year when snow covers the ground, even if the expense of removing them was not an insurmountable objection to such a proposition. The importance of prompt action by Congress in this matter cannot be presented more strongly than in the fact that it can, by a comparatively small appropriation, if made at once, secure permanent peace with a people who have shown themselves formidable in war, and save the government the enormous expense attendant upon an interminable Indian difficulty, which will inevitably occur.

            Aside from this view of the matter, every principle of justice and humanity demands that a portion of what really belongs to them by inheritance should be secured to them, and that a nation as noble as ours should lend a helping hand to these unfortunate people to raise them from their degradation.

            I have the honor to be your obedient servant,

JOHN P. H. WENTWORTH,

Superintending Agent.

Hon. WILLIAM P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

__________

No. 38.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,

Office of Indian Affairs, January 13, 1863.

            SIR : I herewith submit for your consideration a communication of the 3d ultimo, from J. P. H. Wentworth, superintending agent for the southern district of California, upon the subject of establishing an Indian reservation in the Owen's river country.

            The reasons for prompt action on the part of Congress, looking to the establishment of an Indian reservation within the limits of Southern California at the earliest practicable moment, are urgent, and are set forth in my recent annual report. I am, however, far from certain that the location proposed by Superintending Agent Wentworth is such as the wants of the district require. It will be seen that he regards the location as unsuitable for the large majority of the Indians under his charge, and that its capacity is not sufficient for the accommodation of more than 2,000 Indians. I believe that by proper efforts a location can be selected and the title secured for a reservation which shall be ample for the wants of all the Indians of the district. If this can be done, I think it will prove to be for the interest of the Indians, and am certain that it will be much less expensive to the government. Until an effort in this direction shall be made and found impracticable, I must withhold my approval of the proposition of Mr. Wentworth. Should you concur in these views, I respectfully suggest that the accompanying communication, together with this letter, be laid before Congress

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.         107

for its consideration, and such action in the premises as that body may deem expedient.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM P. DOLE, Commissioner.

Hon. J. P. USHER,

            Secretary of the Interior.

__________

No. 39.

SAN FRANCISCO, March 11, 1863.

            SIR: I am informed by Adjutant General Drum that hostilities have again commenced at Owen's river. I beg that you will hurry up my appropriation immediately.           

JNO. P. H. WENTWORTH.

Hon. WILLIAM P. DOLE.

__________

No. 40.

SAN FRANCISCO, September 11, 1863.

            SIR: Please forward my funds immediately. Owen's river Indians, Tejon, are suffering for food.

JNO P. H. WENTWORTH,

Superintendent and Agent.

Hon. WILLIAM P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

__________

[Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 116-118]

No.46.

SPANISH FORK, INDIAN FARM, N. T.,

October 15, 1863.

            SIR: I submit the following report, setting forth my opinion as to the amount necessary to be appropriated to the several tribes of Indians within my agency, for the year ending June 30, 1865.

            The Shoshones and Utahs of this Territory are the most treacherous and hostile of all the Indians, the most unworthy, and have the least disposition to locate and produce for themselves. They have always received, in my opinion, nine-tenths of all presents sent here by the general government, while the Par Vans, Pie Edes, and Goshee Utes, who are located in the extreme south and southwestern part of the Territory, several hundred miles from the mail thoroughfare, are peaceable and loyal, striving to obtain their own living by tilling the soil and laboring for the whites whenever an opportunity presents, and, producing almost entirely their own living, receive comparatively but little help from government appropriation.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.       117

            Kenosh, chief of the Par Vans, gives Bishop McGallister great credit for rendering his people good service in furnishing them with ploughs,. teams, and tools, to enable them-better to cultivate the soil; and they are worthy of much praise for the amount, of labor performed, with what little help they have received from the citizens, without the assistance of the general government.

            It appears to me that government should do something for these Indians. They are certainly worthy of the kindest attention of this department, and I would earnestly recommend that the sum of two thousand five hundred dollars be appropriated for the Crow Creek reservation, to build a small farm-house, and purchase teams, wagons, ploughs, and other tools, to enable them better to cultivate their lands.

            There are many individuals among them who can do as much work as any white man, cradle and bind as much wheat, and do almost all kinds of farming.

            They should receive assistance, and be furnished with tools suitable to work with, and not with such as no white man with a common understanding could or would work with.

            Kenosh showed me the plough the bishop gave them to work with, which is not fit for a white man, much less for an Indian, to use. It only discourages and disheartens the learner. Although not a proper implement for the Indians, much credit is due the bishop for his kind intentions.

            They request me to send them an American to teach them how to work, as they do not expect always to have one with them, and they wish to know how to work for themselves. I feel more anxious that something should be done for these Indians, for the reason that they are the best calculated to set a good example before the Utahs and Pie Edes, who look upon work as degrading, only fit for squaws to perform, and use all manner of means to prevent the Indians from laboring.

            It appears to me if I can succeed in getting under thorough operation, here or at Crow creek, a good farm, worked almost entirely by Indians, and have it fully demonstrated to them how much better it is for their health, comfort; and happiness for them to locate and labor, than to go prowling about the country following their usual avocations of begging and stealing, with no one to take an interest in their welfare, it must certainly induce many of them to change their manner of living.

            The Goshee Utes have always expressed great anxiety that a good farm should be established upon the Deep Creek reservation. They told me that they were willing and anxious to work, and I am satisfied that something must be done for them, or they will continually be doing something for themselves upon emigration or the overland mail company, all their treaties notwithstanding. I am satisfied, also, that not half the depredations committed are the work of the Goshee Utes, although they have the name and blame.

            I look upon treaties with the Indians as being of little account, unless they are consolidated, and acknowledge, not only in theory, but in practice, a head or chief. Without this a treaty may be formed every year, and then not reach the band or the straggling Indians who commit these outrages. To locate and consolidate them as much as possible is the first, and, I think, the only feasible step for treaty stipulations.

            The Utahs who concentrate on this reservation are not all inclined to work, although some of them desire to commence farming in the spring, when the land for irrigation will be in order and the fences completed.

            I would recommend an appropriation of two thousand dollars for the Spanish Fork reservation, to repair and build fences, grub and break new ground, repair the farm and out-houses, and more completely furnish the house.

            I would not propose to establish an Indian farm at this place, or at Crow creek, and employ white laborers, for the simple purpose of raising provisions for the Indians, for they could be purchased cheaper than raised, but to employ

118      UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

white laborers sufficient to teach and assist the Indians, keep the tools and stock in good order, and have a general supervision of all things appertaining to the farm. I have, therefore, made my estimates very small, hoping they will be allowed, and believe that one good practical farmer at each reservation will be sufficient to do all the work necessary with the help of the Indians, as soon as the reservations are fenced.

            I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. W. HATCH,

United States Indian Agent, Utah Territory.

__________

[Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 391-396]

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 234.

TERRITORY OF NEVADA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Carson City, July 2, 1863.

            SIR : In making to you a quarterly report, I can only give you my views of the condition of the Indians and their prospects.

            Nothing of importance has been done for the Indians until Mr. Lockhart's recent return from Washington. He is now preparing to teach the Indians to cultivate their reservations.

            They are peaceable, quiet, able, and willing to learn to work like white men.

            They voluntarily about our towns seek for work.

            Very little outlay is needed for gratuities of any kind to the Indians, and presents of anything but food and clothing are worthless for any purpose. Give

392      UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

them a chance to work for themselves, with tools and instruction, and they will ask very little from the government.

            Mr. Lockhart takes an honest, zealous interest in the welfare of the Indians, and it would be his pride to teach them that which they are so anxious to learn—to cultivate the ground.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ORION CLEMENS,

Acting Governor, Ex Officio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. W. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

__________

No. 235.

OFFICE OF INDIAN AGENT, N. T.,

Carson City, July 9, 1863.

            SIR: I have recently been making a tour among the Pah Utah Indians. I find them delighted over the idea of cultivating their reservations. They are beginning to see that this will soon be their only means of subsistence, and the only way by which they can long hold the land already given them.

            I am in fine spirits about improving their condition, and have no doubt at all but that as much progress can be made next year with them as was ever made with any tribe, and perhaps more in the same length of time. About 2,000 Indians have lately been vaccinated, and many more are coming up to Lieutenant Churchill to be vaccinated.

            There is entire peace and harmony with all the Indian tribes in this Territory, I am glad to say. I design soon to visit the Indians about Reece river, as that is the only place just now where I can see that trouble might arise on account of the rapid influx of people in that direction.

            I have the honor to be your obedient servant,

JACOB T. LOCKHART,

Indian Agent, Nevada Territory.

___

TERRITORY OF NEVADA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Carson City, July 9, 1863.

Indorsed.

ORION CLEMENS,

Acting Governor and Ex-Officio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. W. P. DOLE,

            Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

__________

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 236.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Utah Territory, Great Salt Lake City, June 26, 1863.

            SIR : By the efforts of General Conner and myself, Little Soldier, the chief of the Weber Utes, who have been hostile and committing depredations for some months past, has been induced to come in with his band, and promises to remain at peace with the whites. He met us, with fourteen of his warriors, today in council; wished to make a firm and lasting peace ; encamped at a place near the city, where we can supervise his conduct, and agrees to remain there until we tell him to go to his hunting grounds ; and have sent messengers to

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.         393

other Ute bands assuring them of their safety if they join him, and of our friendly disposition, and advising them also to come in. I have now strong hopes that hostilities on the part of the Utes will cease.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES DUANE DOTY.

Hon. Wm. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

__________

No. 237.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Utah Territory, Great Salt Lake City, July 18, 1863.

            SIR : On the 7th of this month General Conner and myself made a treaty of peace with Little Soldier and his band of Weber Utes, who had assembled at a point in the vicinity of this city indicated by us for their camp, about twenty miles distant.

            We found with him individuals of several other bands, who attended our meeting to ascertain, it is presumed, if we were sincere in accepting Little Soldier's proposals for peace; and if so, to let us know that the disposition of other bands was favorable to peace. All who were present participated in the presents of provisions and goods which I made to Little Soldier, and which were distributed by him, and promised to cease all further depredations, and faithfully to maintain peace and friendship with all white men.

            The other bands of Utahs, to whom messengers had been sent, proposed to meet us at Spanish fork at an early day, to be appointed for the purpose of making peace. The 14th instant being the time selected by General Conner, we met there on that day all of the principal men of those bands excepting two, who sent word by others that they would abide by whatever terms were agreed upon.

            It was agreed that hostilities should cease immediately; that the past should be forgotten ; that the Utahs should give up any stolen horses they had in their possession ; that no further depredations should be committed by them ; that they would remain peaceable and quiet in future ; and if any of their people should hereafter murder white men or steal their horses, they would make every exertion to arrest the offenders, and deliver them up for punishment.

            We promised them liberal presents of provisions and clothing, and that these presents would be continued to them by the government as long as they kept their word, but no longer. We assured them that if any act of aggression upon the whites was committed by them, the soldiers would immediately enter their country and pursue the culprits until redress was obtained, to which they assented. We also assured them that if any injury was done to them by white men, the offenders should be punished if they made complaint, and gave the proper information to General Conner, or to the superintendent.

            They appeared to be very anxious for peace and to have their friendly relations with the government restored, and I feel confident the troubles with the Utah nation (in this Territory) are now terminated. The large presents which I have made them this spring, and on this occasion, have undoubtedly contributed to this result, but I think the government is mainly indebted for it to the able commanding officer of this military department, General Conner, and the efficiency and bravery of the officers and soldiers under his command.

            These treaties were made orally and not reduced to writing, being without instructions from the department, and our only purpose being to obtain peace with these Indians, and to stop further hostilities on their part, for the present at least.

394      UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

            They appeared to be very thankful for the food and clothing which I gave them, and I promised them when the goods arrived, which are now on the way, further presents would be made them if they remained good. This I consider the best application of the funds under my control for the general service which could be made for the benefit of the Indians, the security of emigrants, and of the telegraph and overland mail lines, and the interests of the government.

            When they are again assembled to receive presents, provisions, and goods, I think a treaty may be effected with them upon such terms as the department may desire.

            I can but repeat the recommendation which I have heretofore made, that the Utah bands ought to be collected on the Uintah reservation, and provision made for them as herdsmen. General Conner informs me that some of the troops under his command can be employed (peace being now established with the Shoshonees) in settling and protecting them there, and in aiding them in erecting their houses, and making other improvements for permanent homes. In this manner government may soon obtain perfect control over this nation, and with a less expenditure of money than is now required to maintain the very unsatisfactory and imperfect relations existing at present.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES DUANE DOTY,

Superintendent.

Hon. W. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

__________

No. 238.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Utah Territory June 20, 1863.

            SIR : Your letter of instructions in relation to the proposed treaty with the Shoshonees, dated June 1, 1863, I have the honor to acknowledge, and to inform you that I shall proceed the coming week to Fort Bridger for the purpose of meeting the Shoshonees who are assembled there, some of whom I met on my late expedition, and of treating with them according to your instructions of the 22d of July, 1862, and of those now given.

            Many of these Indians have been hostile, and have committed depredations upon the persons and property of emigrants and settlers, but now express a strong desire for peace. Agent Mann informs me that he is now feeding them under your authority ; I therefore hasten to meet them, that some arrangement may be made by which they can with satisfaction return to their hunting grounds, and upon terms which shall secure peace hereafter, safety to the emigrants and travellers, and relieve the department from the expense now being incurred.

            These are about one-third of the Shoshonees with whom treaties may be held, and I shall endeavor to limit the expenditures to the least amount to obtain the objects desired by government.

            You will please make the deposit with Mr. Cisco, as indicated in your letter, that my drafts may be provided for on presentation.

            The Shoshonee bands are scattered over so vast an extent of country that it will be necessary for the commissioners to meet them at several points. The whole nation can never be assembled without bringing them hundreds of miles.

            Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

JAMES DUANE DOTY,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Utah Territory.

Hon. Wm. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.         395

No. 239.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Utah, Territory, Great Salt Lake City, June 20, 1863.

            SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated May 22, 1863, in relation to my northern expedition, and to report :

            That I returned to this city from that expedition on the 19th instant, having been absent six weeks in the Indian country, and travelled over eight hundred miles. I accompanied General Conner to Snake River Ferry, two hundred miles, where we separated, and he proceeded with his cavalry up the Blackfoot river, and south across the dividing ridge to Soda Springs, at which he has established a military post, on the old California and Oregon roads. The Bannacks and Shoshonees I met in small bands, and after consulting with them, I am satisfied they are disposed to be peaceable and friendly. The exhibition of a cavalry force among them apparently satisfied them that they could be reached by the power of the government, and that they would certainly be punished if they committed depredations upon white men. There are, undoubtedly, as they say, some bad men among them, who will not be controlled by the chiefs, but efforts are made by the peaceable Indians to restrain them. The only bands that appear determined to continue hostilities were those of Pokatelo, Sagowitz, and Sanpitz, and with these I could obtain no communication. They must be left to General Conner's troops.

            When at Snake River ferry, two express-men arrived, bringing information that a large body of Shoshonees and Bannacks were assembled at Kamash prairie, about one hundred miles further north, on the road used by emigrants to Bannack city, with the intention to either fall upon the miners on Beaver Head and its branches, or upon the emigrants along the road between South Pass and Bridger. If this could be prevented by an interview, I felt it my duty to make the attempt, and therefore proceeded with my interpreter to the place indicated to meet them. At Kamash prairie I found but few Indians—those remaining stating that those who had been there had gone in different directions to the mountains to hunt, and that they were all friendly to the whites, and disposed to be peaceable. They complained of the white men at Bannack city firing upon them in the streets of that place, when they were there upon a friendly visit, and molesting no one, and killed their chief, Shanog, and two others. They said they did not intend to revenge this wanton act, because it was committed by men who were drunk, and they thought all the people there were drunk at the time. I advised them not to go there again, and to keep away from drunken white men ; to be kind, and render good service to the emigrants along the road, and that they would be generously rewarded. I gave them a few presents of blankets, &c. However, fearing there might be trouble from this gross attack, and that other bands might not be disposed to overlook it, I determined, as there was no Indian agent in this section of country, to proceed to Bannack city, about eighty miles distant, to ascertain the truth of their statement, and to counsel with those who might be along the road through the mountains. On entering the mountains I encountered a large band of Shoshonees, who manifested a friendly spirit, expressed a desire to be at peace, and thankfully accepted the few presents I was able to make them. On arriving at Bannack I learned with regret that the statement by the Indians of the murder of their people was true; that they were fired upon as they were sitting quietly in the street, by a dozen white men, and that their sole object in visiting the place was to give up a child — which they did — which had been demanded of them on the supposition that it was a stolen white child. I saw the child, and have no doubt that it is a half-breed, and was rightfully in their possession. I would have adopted legal measures for the punishment of these offenders, but

396      WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY.

there were no civil officers there, and no laws but such as have been adopted by miners. The matter must rest until the organization of the government of Idaho.

            Whilst at Bannock, I ascertained that bands of Flat-heads had passed on the road by which I came, in search of the Bannacks and Shoshonees, for the purpose of stealing their horses and making war upon them. Deeming it unsafe to return alone, I employed Mr. Dempsey, an excellent interpreter, to send a guide and guard of Indians with me. These accompanied me faithfully to the settlement of Box Elder, and will, on their way back, give useful information to those of their nation they meet.

            All the Indians I met, during my absence, appeared desirous to form a treaty with the United States, and I told them that when the commissioners were ready to meet them I would send a runner to them to inform them of the time and place for them to assemble.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES DUANE DOTY.

Hon. WILLIAM P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

__________

[Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1863, pp. 416-420]

ADDENDA TO APPENDIX,

PAPERS RECEIVED TOO LATE FOR CLASSIFICATION.

* * * * * * *

416      NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 2.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Carson City, Nevada Territory, October 27, 1863.

            SIR : Since my return to the Territory (which was toward the close of the mouth of July last) I have visited all of the more distant tribes of Indians in the Territory, and have the satisfaction of reporting all the tribes quiet, peaceful, and orderly. The Shoshonees are situated on the eastern border of the Territory, and, with the exception of two visits from this agency, have never received much attention from the government. The reason, I suppose, is, that it has been a matter of doubt in whose jurisdiction they were located. In consultation with his excellency Governor Doty, we concluded that the eastern boundary of our Territory runs through a valley about fifty miles east of Ruby valley, and nearly four hundred miles east of Carson City. The Shoshonees are divided into several bands, three of which are under the jurisdiction of this superintendency. They seem to be peaceably inclined, and are a less formidable tribe than the Pah-Utes. All of that portion in this Territory, I am informed by the inhabitants, have always been peaceable, and many of them are laboring for the ranchers in the different settlements. They seem much pleased with the treaty with them, as well as with the presents we distributed. They fully appreciated the kindness of the government, and promised faithfully to observe all of its conditions, which I believe they will do if not tempted by the whites to violate them. While a great majority of the inhabitants treat them well and kindly, truth compels me to say some do not ; on the contrary, incite them to deeds of violence, for the double purpose of profit to themselves, by having soldiers quartered among them for the purpose of furnishing supplies, and some for the baser purpose of weakening the government, in this hour of peril, by diverting troops to this coast away from the scenes of strife in the east. This will soon be done with. The constant and rapid discoveries of new mining regions is fast peopling all of that portion of our country where the Indians are located and roam, carrying with them always a large preponderance of those who require and demand peace in such unmistakable terms as to compel evil-disposed persons (such as above described) to respect their wishes. The new and very rich discoveries at Reese river, two hundred and twenty miles east of this place, are attracting much of public attention, and have already drawn a population there of more than three thousand people as permanent settlers, and will, before the close of another year, insure a permanent population of ten thousand. This large settlement, in the centre of the Territory, with rich interests to protect, will tend largely to insure peace with the surrounding tribes of Indians. Not only at Reese river have these mineral discoveries been made, but at many intermediate points, so that now short distances intervene between settlements from the western to the eastern portion of the Territory. The change in three years has been wonderful, even magical. Upon inquiry, I found in Ruby valley a reservation of six miles square for the Shoshonees, quite productive, and capable, if improved, of going far towards supporting that portion of the tribe located about it. Its natural product is grass, and hay is now worth from seventy-five to one hundred dollars per ton in that vicinity. The last person who had charge of it, as a real or pretended agent, was a Mr. Rogers ; he had abandoned it, or rather rented it to two persons, who pretend to hold possession under him. I informed them they must leave it, which they reluctantly consented to do. In order to keep possession of it, and insure quiet, I appointed a local agent, Henry Butterfield, and put him in possession of the reservation, with instructions to hold it. The distance is so great from this where the agent resides, as to render it absolutely necessary to have some one constantly there. Before doing so, I consulted his excellency Governor Doty, my fellow commis-

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.    417

sinner in the making of the treaty, and he advised to that course. The condition of the Pah-Ute tribe is most flattering, and I anticipate after next year that they will be self-sustaining. They have two reservations — one on the Truckee river and one on the Walker river, about fifty miles distant from each other ; two of the most productive portions of the Territory, and so extensive that the rapid influx of population will soon demand a surrender of one of them as an absolute necessity. In view of this probable result, the agent, Mr. Lockhart, and myself have turned our attention to the cultivation and improvement, first, of the Truckee river reservation, as embracing more advantages for successful cultivation than the other, deeming it prudent to first demonstrate, if possible, the fact that the one reservation, if properly managed, is capable of sustaining all the tribe, and if found sufficient for that purpose, releasing to the whites the Walker river reservation, thereby lessening the expenses of the government in the way of the number of employes, &c. When in Washington, last winter, I had several conversations with his honor the Secretary of the Interior in regard to the cultivation of the Truckee reservation. I tried to explain the reasons why the experiment (if such it may be called) should be made there ; First, it is necessary to fence such portions as we cultivate ; next, if we would make the Indians contented, we must make, them comfortable, by providing some shelter for them in the way of cheap houses ; third, if they produce, some provision must be made to secure and save the crops thus produced. The local agent and teachers must have a comfortable home, and the children must have a comfortable school-house. To do all this will require a large amount of lumber, which is difficult to obtain and very costly. To obviate these difficulties, and make the experiment a success, I proposed to the Secretary of the Interior to build a saw-mill at the upper end of the reservation and run the logs and timber down the Truckee river from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the mill, a distance of about sixty miles — the only timber accessible to the reservation being on the mountains. In this way we shall be able to carry out the wishes of the department, and answer the imperative necessities of the reservation and Indians thereon. I entertain no doubt that this can be done, and all necessary teams and implements of husbandry be furnished, for the appropriation made last winter, except the expense of mechanical labor in putting up the buildings, aside from the mill next spring. The Secretary of the Interior acquiesced in my suggestion, and the mill is now under contract to be built, and the logs will be run by spring, so that all the improvements contemplated by the department can be completed next season. I repeat here my conviction that when the improvements are made as intended, the Pah-Utes will require no more aid from the government except for agents to superintend them. The absence of the agent and myself from the Territory until the season for gathering hay was pretty much over prevented our cutting much hay this season for market. How much exactly has been cut I am unable to say, for the reason the agent has not reported and is now absent on the reservation ; still, I think, there has nothing been lost in not doing so. There is a large demand by stock owners for winter ranching, and we have concluded to ranch stock at a given price per head through the winter, which, I think, will yield as much net as the hay would have done. Mr. Lockhart is now absent completing the arrangements. The goods purchased by the department for distribution among the Pah-Utes and Washoe tribes arrived in good order and will be ample for both. Both tribes are better prepared for winter than ever before, and we concluded it was better not to distribute their clothing until cold weather, when they most need it. They are so proverbially improvident, it would have been worn out or disposed of by them before winter. All of the Indians of this jurisdiction are well provided with provisions for the winter. There has been an abundant yield of pine nuts, and they have gathered large quantities, likewise, of grass seed ; also, the season has been propitious for the taking of fish, which they

418      NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

have dried in abundance ; no expense, therefore, will be incurred for feeding them this winter. The appropriation made will cover all the expenses for the present year, and may be some less for the next with propriety. We labor under a very serious embarrassment in expenditures as it regards the currency in which we receive our appropriations and necessarily have to pay out. It does not amount, in fact, to three-fourths of its nominal value; everything we get done we have to pay for at a gold standard ; therefore, for every dollar we pay out it costs us at least a dollar and a quarter. We are troubled with our employes ; their salaries are limited to fifty dollars a month, and they refuse to remain in the employ of the department unless it is made fifty dollars in gold. It occasions a great deal of trouble, and results in the employment of inferior qualifications ; we have done the best we could with these embarrassments; hoping ever the condition of our currency would improve. There is a strong prejudice against the use and circulation of our national currency in this gold and silver producing country ; they have so long been in the habit of using nothing but the precious metals, if is almost impossible to use anything else. This prejudice has to be controlled by the little handful of officials that receive nothing but paper for salaries and expenditures, but we have failed in the effort to make it par. It is now worth sixty-eight cents on the dollar, and no more, and this in our prominent and important towns; when we get away into the interior we can only pass them at sixty cents. I mention this fact to apprise the department fully of our condition, and to show them why it is that prices for articles purchased here and expenses necessarily paid may seem exorbitant. In this respect this Territory stands alone, except it may be Washington and Idaho. In Utah the currency is par, and all of the more eastern Territories. We are so internally connected with California that she rules and controls all matters pertaining to the value of our currency, except that it is always about two per cent. more discount in the Territory than in San Francisco.

            This report would have been sent, in accordance with the instructions of the department, earlier, if it had not been for my absence in the States, and for my long absence east among the Shoshonees, in making the treaty already submitted, occupying a full month's time ; and since my return I have been collecting the facts of the other tribes, so as to make a report upon known facts, and make it intelligibly and understandingly.

            His excellency, Governor Doty and myself will make a joint report of our doings as commissioners to make treaties, &c.

            I am well satisfied that no danger exists from Indian difficulties on the line of telegraph or the overland mail hereafter between the Sierra Nevada mountains and Great Salt Lake City, or east of that point, so long as the now faithful and experienced superintendent of Indian affairs has charge of the tribes in Utah, and our own are so peacefully inclined. I congratulate the country upon the success of the peaceful policy adopted for our tribes in this Territory, and for the effort, which will be crowned with complete success, of teaching these children of the forest that they need not roam over the vast plains and snow-clad mountains to obtain subsistence, but by far less labor and toil can obtain it at home in greater abundance from the soil they have heretofore regarded as useless. It will open up to them a new existence, and will make them not only a peaceful but useful class of inhabitants ; the younger ones will be educated in all the useful branches of common education and ordinary agriculture, and transform them from savages to men and women adapted to all the employments necessary to self-subsistence. While I remain as superintendent I shall devote my best energies to aid the department in this great humanizing undertaking, and when it is accomplished, as it will be, notwithstanding the heretofore failures, it will stand forth as one of the proudest achievements of the department, and will be looked at with wonder by other nations and coming generations, that a nation, while struggling for its existence against a mighty rebellion, with

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.         419

one hand red with reluctantly shed blood, stretches out the other with kindness over the long-neglected savage for his redemption. It cannot fail to be a source of great personal satisfaction to those who have an agency in this great work.

            All of which is most respectfully submitted.

JAMES W. NYE,

Governor and Ex-officio Superintendent of Indian

Affairs for the Territory of Nevada.

Hon. WM. P. DOLE,

            Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

__________

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 3.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Utah Territory, Great Salt Lake City, October 24, 1863.

            SIR : In compliance with the regulations of the Indian department, I have the honor to present the following annual report for the year 1863. Its earlier transmission was impracticable, having been engaged in the performance of my duties as commissioner to treat with the Shoshonees until this date.

            I beg leave to refer to the annual estimate for this superintendency which was submitted last year as proper for the coming year, and also to respectfully recommend that the goods for presents, farming implements, &c., be purchased in New York and shipped as early as practicable in the spring, as it is difficult to obtain them in this city, and only at extravagant prices.

            Several of the Utah bands are both willing and desirous to become settled, as herdsmen or husbandmen, on the Uinta reservation. It is now unoccupied, except for hunting during the winter. It would be advantageous to the government to comply with their wishes, and it is again suggested that treaties be made with them for their removal and location there. They would then be withdrawn from the present routes of travel through this Territory, and peace insured hereafter with a people strongly inclined to agricultural pursuits, but who have, from unknown causes, at several times this season, attacked the stages and killed the drivers.

            Their friendship cannot be relied upon whilst they are in the immediate vicinity of the white settlements; and for this as well as other reasons it is believed that all expenditures upon the farm at Spanish Fork are a waste of public money; that the farm ought to be abandoned, and the agency removed to Uinta valley, where all improvements made would have a permanent value. The inhabitants at Spanish Fork, as also in other quarters, for their own security against depredations, seek to maintain friendly relations with the Indians, as in previous years the government has not been able to give them adequate protection.

            During the year 1862 and the winter months of this year many of the Indians in this superintendency manifested decided evidences of hostility toward the whites. The numerous murders and depredations upon property which they committed, as also their language, indicated a determination to stop all travel upon the overland routes and upon the roads leading to the gold mines in Idaho Territory. It became unsafe even for the Mormon settlers to go into the cañons for wood; and the Bannack prophet said the Indians would combine and drive the white men from the country. This was his advice to the Shoshonee bands.

            The battle with the Shoshonees on the bank of Bear river in January, and the subsequent engagements with the Utahs on Spanish Fork, and with the Goaships in their country, effectually checked them, and severely and justly punished them for the wanton acts of cruelty which they had committed. The fight on

420      UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

Bear river was the severest and most bloody of any which has ever occurred  with the Indians west of the Mississippi. One band (that of Sanpitz) was almost exterminated. It struck terror into the hearts of the savages hundreds of miles away from the battle-field.

            As soon as it was ascertained that any of the bands were inclined to peace they were met by General Connor and myself at places selected in their own country, and treaties of peace and friendship entered into with them — a service which, in some instances, was regarded as both difficult and hazardous. These negotiations have been communicated to the department from time to time as they occurred, as also other treaties formed by Governor Nye, Agent Mann, and myself, with the eastern and western bands of Shoshonees. These treaties could not have been made without the aid of the appropriations made by Congress for this superintendency, which have been wholly applied to the great object of restoring peace ; and also to the presence of the military, who have rendered distinguished and lasting service to the government in subduing the Indians throughout this Territory.

            It appears now as though peace was again permanently established with all of the tribes in this country, and that no danger from them is to be apprehended by emigrants moving in trains or singly; nor of an interruption in future to the overland stage or telegraph lines. They now acknowledge the Americans are the masters of this country. But peace can only be secured by regular, liberal, but just appropriations, and by the continuance of a strong military force upon the main routes of travel through this city, and especially on the routes north of it.

            It was only by the judicious application of the appropriations made by Congress at its last session for the Indians in Utah that this department has been so successful in restoring peace, not only throughout this Territory, but in the southern part of Idaho also. It is believed that Congress will not be called upon for like appropriations again if the treaties are ratified and the goods required for the annuities are purchased and forwarded from the Missouri river early in the spring. It must be observed that it will take about three months' time to transport them to the places where they are to be distributed. If this is done, this country can be prospected for its minerals, and the northern gold mines worked with safety and increased advantages.

            Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

JAMES DUANE DOTY,

Acting Superintendent.