Letters from Nevada Indian Agents 1853

July 23, 2006

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Nevada History:

Letters From Nevada Indian Agents - 1853

[Compiled by the publisher of The Nevada Observer in 1980-1981 and transcribed from handwritten originals in the collection of Letters Received by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Utah Superintendency, National Archives microfilm; spelling as in original documents. Funding for the project was provided by Grace Dangberg, of Minden, Nevada.]

LETTER FROM J.H. HOLEMAN, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO LUKE LEA, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Webber Station

March. 5. 1853

Hon Luke Lea

Commissioner of Indian Affairs

Sir -- I addressed you a hasty note, in November last, from Fort Bridger in relation to difficulties between the Mormons and the Indians. I remained on Green River, had frequent conversations with the Indians until all matters were quieted for the present. But I fear a disturbance, if the country should be settled and occupied by the Mormons, or if they should attempt to build Bridges and establish ferries under the acts of the Territorial Legislature, alluded to in my note of November last. I am at a loss to know how to act -- I have so frequently asked for information and instructions, on various matters, without receiving my, that I fear my communications have not reached you. I hope, however that they have not miscarried, and that I shall receive them by the first mail. We have not had a mail from the States since October. There has been so much snow that the mountains and roads have been impassable, except on foot, with Snow Shoes. I have been unable to reach Salt Lake -- I was compelled to remain at Bridger until January, when a warm spell dissolved the Snow and I made an effort -- but could get no farther than this place, where I have been compelled to remain ever since, some three months -- living upon the wild game that we could kill. There are three Mormon families living here all they have to live on is flour they have no meat but such as they can kill. From these w~ have been enabled to get bread, and such other accommodations as they can afford, but at a very high price, and none of the best at that -- they have but a scant supply for themselves. I have remained here in this predicament on account of my horses, being satisfied that if I left them, they would be lost -- I have a hired man with me, and by our constant attention we have been enabled to save them through the winter. The snow is disappearing on the south hill side, the grass is commencing to grow, and I hope to be able, in a few days to reach Salt Lake City, when I will communicate to you more fully -- there being no mails from this Territory to the States since October has prevented me from writing before. The mail carrier of October, was compelled to leave his horse and part of his mail hero and take the letter bag to the City on foot. He has just arrived from the city, with the March mail, after a laborious travel of five days, only forty miles, and will make an effort to reach the States. He reports the mountains impassable for horses, particularly weak as ours are but I hope to be able to leave in a few days. You will please receive this as my excuse for not communicating to you at the end of each quarter.

My situation with Gov. Young, as Superintendent, is rather an unpleasant one -- While I feel disposed to treat all parties fairly, and protect the Indians so as to prevent difficulties with the Whites, he seems to have no other anxiety but to favor his own church and people. If things are not changed I feel satisfied, I can be of no great service to the Indian department. My course is well known to the department -- I have acted from circumstances and to the best of my judgement, and hope that my conduct has been justified by the department. If matters are not changed so as to produce a better feeling in the Mormon towards the Government, or if the authority and laws of the Government are not enforced, if it should be the wishes of the department I would like to be called home, as my duty to the Government compells me to act in such a manner, as to give offence, frequently, to the Mormons, who seem to recognise no law but their own self will. This is a very unpleasant situation and one that can be productive of not much service either to the Government, to the Indians, or to myself. They seem desirous to hold all the offices themselves and when a Gentile is appointed he is never treated with respect, but is abused let him do as he will. I have and do yet, disregard their abuse, but feel that my efficiency as a Government officer is impaired by such conduct.

I have heretofore suggested to the department, various matters -- having taken some pains to acquire information, and at the expense of the Governement, and having formed a friendly acquaintance with the Indians and made myself acquainted with the country, if my suggestions should meet the views of the department, I will, with pleasure, give them such attention as the department may direct -- as I do not feel disposed to relinquish a duty imposed on me, however arduous and disagreeable the service may be -- particularly, having recommended them.

I have the honor to be very respectfully,

Your obt. Servant

J.H. Holeman, Indian Agent

Utah Territory

P.S. I have written in a great hurry, on a board on my knees, you will therefore excuse the scrawl.

JHH

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APPLICATION TO TRADE, RECEIVED FROM THOMAS C. IVIE TO BRIGHAM YOUNG, GOVERNOR AND SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFPAIRS, UTAH TERRITORY

Great Salt Lake City, April 15th 1853.

To His Excellency, Brigham Young,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs Utah Territory.

Sir,

The Undersigned, Thomas C. Ivie living in Provo city Utah County, Territory of Utah, being desirous of trading with the Utah Tribes of Indians within the boundaries of the country occupied by said Tribes, or elsewhere in said Territory, do hereby respectfully Solicit of your Excellency the privilege of a license to trade with them; and I also wish the name of William Franklin Ivie, who is also living in said city of Provo to be named in said license as my clerk and Assistant, and am willing to faithfully observe all the laws and regulations made, or which shall be made for the government of trade and intercourse with the Indian Tribes.

And your petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.

Thomas C. Ivie

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LETTER EROM J.H. HOLEMAN, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO LUKE LEA, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

April 29, 1853.

Hon L. Lea

Commissioner Ind. Affs.

Sir -- I addressed you a hasty note, on the 5th inst. from Webber, informing you of my situation and detention in the mountains by the Snow. I succeeded in crossing the mountain and arrived here on the 20th inst. and as the mail will leave on the 1st of next month, I have thought it important to address you a few lines.

I think it probable we shall have something of a difficulty with a band of the Utah tribe of Indians, under the command of the celebrated Chief Walker, who it seems is leagued with a small force of Spaniards or Mexicans -- some of whom have been arrested and are now in custody in this city, under the charge of having traded arms and ammunition to the Indians. The motive of the Indians, I have not yet been able to learn. I was informed, last December, while at Fort Bridger, that some threats had been made against the Mormons by a few Spaniards who had been arrested in Salt Lake, under the charge of purchasing and trading for Indian children in the Territory, to be taken to Mexico as slaves. They were tried and convicted -- their property taken from them, and the Indian children, by order of court placed in the hands of the whites, as apprentices, for a term of years, according to their respective ages, where they will be kindly treated. It seems that these children were prisioners, [sic] taken by the Utah tribe of Indians from other tribes with whom they were at war -- they have been in the habit of capturing or stealing these children, for many years, and carried on a trade with the Spaniards who purchased them for slaves. This practice it was thought advisable by the authorities to put a stop to -- consequently, the arrest and the release of the children alluded to. Recently, the same kind of traffic was being carried on, with the addition, that arms and ammunition was liberally distributed among the Indians by the Spaniards. The authorities undertook to arrest this trade, when they were met by Walker, the chief, and his band of Utah Indians, who justified, and defended the Spaniards, and threatened to kill every white man, if they again Interfered -- there being only about eight of the whites, they were forced to submit. The Governor, however, being on a visit in the neighborhood of these transactions, very promptly called out the Militia, and ordered other preparations to meet the emergency. Considerable excitement prevails at present, in consequence of the threats of these Spaniards and the unfriendly appearance of the Indians -- their conduct, however, may have been exagerated -- if so, the fear is that the militia may go farther than the conduct and acts of the Indians should justify -- I hope, however, that they may act with prudence, and not provoke an unnecessary difficulty with the Indians. I have had no communication or advice from the Governor; and as these transactions are taking place some two hundred miles from this city, I am unable to give any further information at present. The Governor being in the vicinity, on what they call, an "Exploring expedition" he will no doubt adopt such measures as may be in his power to prevent any serious difficulty. What the result will be, I am unable to say -- these Spaniards having expressed a determination to be revenged on the Mormons to whom they attribute their arrest, may cause great distress and trouble, in the more remote settlements, by exciting the Indians against them. Some of them being already unfriendly towards the Mormons, for alledged past injuries are the more easily excited. If, however, the excitement should not extend farther than Walker’s band it will be easily allayed -- but should it extend to the various tribes in the Territory, and the adjoining country, who may be induced to engage for the sake of plunder, it is difficult to predict where it will end or what will be the result. Should there be a general outbreak, it will be caused by the whites pushing their settlements over the Indian country against their wishes or consent. The Indians have complained much on this subject.

This is another evidence, among many others which I have presented to the department, of the importance of holding a treaty with the Indians in this Territory. It is very necessary, in order to peace and quiet, that the Indians as well as the Whites should know their respective rights and privileges -- this cannot be done, satisfactorily, without some treaty stipulations. The Indians are becoming more and more excited, as the Mormons extend their settlements -- Some of them complain that they have been forced to give up their grounds so frequently, that they will submit no longer. I do not allude to the Mormons, for the purpose of exciting a prejudice against them or to charge them with improper conduct -- it is merely because no other whites are settling the country -- and the Indians, in speaking of these settlements allude to the Mormons, and their conduct, in relation to the settlement and occupation of the region of country about Salt Lake -- in which they complain of great injustice and cruelty at the hands of the Mormons. This "exploring party" with the Governor at the head, may have hastened these unfriendly demonstrations on the part of the Indians -- as I understand their object to be, to search out rich values and prominent points for extending their settlements. Considering it important that the department should be in possession of these matters, I deem it my duty to make this communication.

I informed you, in my note of the 5th inst. it was not in my power to make my quarterly reports for December and March, in consequence of my situation in the mountains -- nothing, however, of importance has occurred of which I have not advised you. The superintendent being absent, I shall have to defer my report until June, when I hope to be able to make a satisfactory one. In the mean time, should any thing occur of importance I will inform you.

The mail from the States, the first since October last, is expected by the 10th of May, by which I hope to receive some instructions from the department, and shall be prepared to obey them promptly. Should I receive none, and I should find it necessary, I shall again visit the Indians on the Humbolt and Carson rivers. They have been peaceable and friendly since my last years visit, and express much anxiety that I should visit them again. Although a very troublesome and disagreeable trip, yet so much good may be effected by a visit to these Indians that it should not be neglected. I hope that the disturbances with the Indians in this neighborhood may not prevent it, should I find it to be necessary.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully,

Your Obt. Servant.

J.H. Holeman Ind Agent

Utah Territory.

Hon. L. Lea

Com. Ind. Affs.

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ENDORSEMENT OF FREVIOUS LETTER DATED APRIL 29, 1853

Utah Supy. He 233

J.H. Holeman,

G.S.L. city 29. April ‘53.

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Relative to probable difficulty with the Indians -- Spainards trading with them for captive children, as slaves -- arrests of some of the Spainards by the Mormons -- threats of retaliation -- inciting the Indians to hostilities -- necessity of a treaty -- encroachments of the Mormons on Indian laws. his quarterly reports –

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Recd. 9 June ‘53

File

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LETTER FROM J.H. HOLEMAN, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO LUKE LEA, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Great Salt Lake City.

May, 21, 1853.

Hon L. Lea

Com. Ind. Affs.

Sir -- In my communication of the 29th of April I informed you of a disturbance with the Indians in this neighborhood which I feared would produce trouble -- but I am happy to inform you that matters have been arranged, and all is peace and quiet at present, in that direction. The Superintendent being in the vicinity, promptly laid hold of the matter, and checked it at once. The disturbance was not so serious as had been represented.

In the same communication, I informed you, that if the disturbances in this neighborhood, should not prevent me, and I should find it necessary, I would again visit the Humbolt and Carson rivers. A letter received from a friend who left this place for California, early this spring, informs me, that the Indians are somewhat troublesome, and that they are making threats against the whites. The mail carrier from California who arrived here on the 15th inst. brings me intelligence direct from the Indians. He says, they are complaining of ill treatment on the part of the whites they say, that they do not wish to be at variance with the whites; that they wish for peace and friendship, but that the whites will not let them alone -- and from best information I can get, and that given by the mail carrier. I think all this very likely. The mail carrier reports that a train which left this place for California, had, by their own carelessness, lost an Ox -- that on this same day four Indians came to their camp, quietly and friendly -- they were accused with stealing the ox, which they denied -- they were arrested by the train, their arms taken from them, and they placed under close guard. Subsequently, three of the Indians were released, and ordered to bring the ox to camp, or that their companion who was kept as a hostage should be put to death. That night the fourth Indian made his escape -- the emigrants keeping the arms ammunition &c. of the four Indians. This transaction has produced much excitement, and has caused the disturbances on the part of the Indians.

As I have every confidence in the friendly disposition of these Indians I feel satisfied of the importance of making an effort to restore tranquility -- it is important in consequence of the great travel on this route -- it may be easily stopped if attended to at once -- if the breach is left to widen, by imprudence on both sides, it will be more difficult to adjust and will be much more expensive to the Government. As I have remarked, in previous communications, I think it will be much more difficult to manage the whites than the Indians -- they are continually mistreating the Indians, and it is not to be wondered at that the Indians retaliate. Although a very troublesome and fatiguing trip, I think it important that it should be attended to.

The emigration now on the road, consists principally of trains of stock, from this valley, and neighborhood -- what will be their fate, I cannot say -- they are well armed, and as each train is compelled to have hands to assist in the management of their stock, they may be able to take care of themselves. The case is very different with the emigration from the states to California and Oregon -- large numbers of women and children are found with almost every train -- and with many, there are no other men but the heads of families -- consequently, they may become an easy prey to the Indians, exited as they are by the bad treatment of the whites. Two of the Indians who I met with on the Humbolt last season, have been in this city -- they came in as guides and interpreters employed by the mail contractors -- they are very anxious that I should visit the Indians on the Humbolt and Carson rivers, again -- they say, that if I will go, I can no doubt quiet all disturbances. As I shall be able to see them, before the emigration will reach that section of the Territory, I have thought it not only prudent, but necessary, that I should do so. There is nothing to do here -- and if I can restore peace and quiet on the route, again, and keep the Indians friendly, it will save the destruction of much property and many lives. It is, in my opinion, an important matter -- the Indians are disposed to be friendly, and if kept so, until the government can have a talk with them, there will be no difficulty in establishing friendly relations with them. But if the whites who travel the road, are permitted to harrass and abuse them they will loose all confidence in the professions of friendship on the part of the Government, and thereby, render an adjustment of the difficulties troublesome and expensive.

I have previously spoken of these matters to the department, and expected instructions -- but having received none, all I can do is to keep them quiet, if possible, until farther advised. This can only be done by visiting them, and giving them a few presents, and some provisions. Considering that it will be good policy to visit these Indians, I have determined to do so. To defray the expenses of the expedition and for the purchase of presents &c. for the Indians in that section, I have drawn on the department in favor of Livingstone & Kinkead, a draft dated the 21st of May, 1853. for fifteen hundred dollars ($1500.) An account of the expenditure of which I will render in my report of the expedition.

I shall have to hire a few men, and an interpreter to accompany me. -- having nothing for an interpreter to do, in order to save expense, I paid off, and discharged my interpreter in October last, and have had none since, except on particular occasions, and then only for a day or two at a time. Provisions are high and scarce; and cannot be had except for cash -- I shall use all diligence and economy and report, on my return, the situation of affairs. Should any thing of importance occur on the trip, I will advise you.

Very respectfully -- Your obt. Servt.

J.H. Holeman, Ind Agt.

Utah Territory

Hon L Lea

Com. Ind. Affs.

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QUARTERLY REPORT OF BRIGHAM YOUNG, GOVERNOR OF UTAH AND SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO THE COMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Executive Office Territory of Utah

Department of Indian Affairs

Great Salt Lake City, June 28th. 1853.

Hon__________

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

Washington City,

D.C.

Sir,

I herewith transmit the abstract, account current accompanying vouchers, and the Quarterly report of Superintendency for the quarter 2nding June 30th 1853.

All is peace at present; and so far as the Diggers on the Humboldt or Mary’s River are concerned, no outbreak on their part has occurred since my last communication, and I am in hopes that the yearly intercourse with the whites afforded by the annual emigration on that route, and the monthly transmission of the mail, will gradually conduce to a better understanding of either party by the other, and an entire cessation of hostile demonstrations by either the white or red men.

In the fore part of April last the Utahs at Manti in San Pete Valley, became considerably excited, because the inhabitants would not allow them to trade Indian children for guns and ammunition to some Mexicans, who came there on a trading expedition. The Mexicans reported that they had a license from the Governor of New Mexico, giving them authority to trade with the Utahs in the forks of Grand and Green River. Knowing that the southern point of that region of country was upwards of 30’ north of 370 in all the maps in our possession at the time, and in accordance with what I deemed imperative duty, and to preserve peaceable relations with the Utahs of that region, I immediately took the necessary legal steps to prevent their trading within the bounds of this Territory, being as usual extremely desirous to suppress the trade in children to be enslaved, and especially to prevent guns and ammunition being exchanged for them; which would constantly tend to encourage that trade, and to arm a people whose feelings are ever uncertain. This proceeding created much excitement on the part of the Indians, and they poured forth strong threatenings. On the 13th of April an express arrived from Iron County, bringing news of a hostile feeling on the part of the Utah Chief Wacher and his band. This hostility arose from the misconduct of a small party of emigrants who left early in the Spring for California and on Summit Creek traded guns and ammunition to the Indians, and encouraged them to acts of hostility against the settlements. I forthwith dispatched Mr. Dimick B. Huntington (who has great influence with the Indians) with a few men as guard, to visit Wacher and his band, with instructions to give such explanations and information as should tend to peace, and at the same tine to caution the Inhabitants to be on the alert to prevent any serious dams-se from sudden outbreaks through Indian peaks of anger. Rumors of threatened Indian hostilities still increasing, and reports arriving that the Mexicans were arming the Indians and stirring them on to aggressions. I hastened preparations for my intended visit to he Utahs, and left this city on the 20th of April. On my arrival at Provo City in Utah County, with a small party, I found the excitement so great that I did not deem it prudent to proceed without further aid at command, I therefore ordered Capt William Wall to take 43 men and proceed forthwith to Iron County, and to detach a small spy party at Salt Creek to proceed to the same point by way of San Pete; to notice carefully the movements and feelings of any Indians or non-residents he might meet with, and reconnoitre the country around the weak settlements, and on the Tevier River: and not wishing to further weaken the settlements in the region of the threatened difficulties, I ordered Capt Robert T. Burton to raise twenty-nine men from Great Salt lake City, and follow me to Manti. On arriving at Manti I found the Indians much bent on trading children to the Mexicans, though they told me that if we could pay them as high a price as the Mexicans offered, and pay in horses, guns and ammunition, the would trade with us. I told them we wished to do them good, and counseled them to raise their own children, and to refrain from stealing any from other tribes, and that ammunition sufficient for hunting would be traded to them for skins and peltry, as soon as it could be produced or procured. I finally succeeded in pacifying the Indians at Manti but not hearing from Capt. Wall’s command, and not knowing how many Mexicans might be at large stirring up strife, and aware that in the event of open collision I could operate more effectually at head quarters in quieting the minds of the people, and directing operations, I returned to this city.

After my return, Captains Wall and Burton reported that the Indians they met were considerably frightened by the sudden armed movements and expressed a strong desire to be at peace on finding themselves foiled in their plans, which was exceedingly gratifying, as much bloodshed and great expense were doubtless prevented by this prompt method, and at comparatively but a small outlay, as will be seen by the accompanying vouchers Nos. 10 & 11, which I presume will be promptly and cheerfully allowed by the Department as the services were ordered and the bills audited, allowed and paid by me in good faith, in my official capacity as Ex-Officio Superintendent of Indian Affairs, in accordance with the instructions contained in a letter from the Hon Luke Lea, bearing date February 20th 1852 as follows: “The remoteness of Utah from Washington, and the little that is known hers of the Indians in that Territory, render it necessary that the management of our Indian Affairs in that quarter be left almost entirely to your discretion and judgment."

In due course of law such of the Mexicans as were arrested were examined and released with their property, and instructed not to meddle, or trade with the Indians of this Territory; this prompt mode of procedure I have no doubt prevented an open war. Since this time there has been no serious disturbance with the Utahs south of us though Arrow-pene, one of Wacher’s brothers, lately killed an Indian prisoner child, because the traders would not give him what he asked for and a few of the Utahs have been rather importunate for provisions, and insulting when their demands were not fully complied with. These circumstances occurred near Provo city, but I apprehend no serious difficulty in that region as the settlements in Utah County are pretty strong.

During this month considerable numbers of the Cumumbahs, have pitched their lodges in the vicinity of the small settlements in Tooele Valley, and have had one skirmish among themselves in which several were wounded and a few killed. As yet, I have heard of no outbreaks between them and the whites and expect more certain information as to their feelings, designs, numbers, &c. on the return of our Indian Agent Major Holeman, who is now visiting the Indians who roam west of this city.

Notwithstanding peace exists between the whites and the Indians, and at present among the Indians so far as we know, still I wish to call your attention to the heavy expense on small settlements, to maintain the preventive, concilliatory, and fatherly policy towards the poor, ignorant natives so wisely adopted by our government, and so uniformly carried out in my official acts, and by the inhabitants of this Territory. Wherever small settlements are made the Indians gather round them in greater or less numbers, and are constantly importuning for clothing, provisions, arms and ammunition, even when their few articles of exchange are exhausted, which is soon the case, and when their demands, usually exorbitant from contrasting their known poverty and wants with the fancied wealth and comforts of the whites, are not complied with, they indulge angry feelings, and often practice stealing horses, cattle, clothing, &c. causing much loss of property and requiring great forbearance. It is no matter of surprise that such recurrences happen, when it is understood that this territory is poorly supplied with fish and game; that the Indian is raised to a roaming and indolent life, and to consider thieving as an honorable and praiseworthy avocation.

Under a cautious and prudent policy, a certain number of guns, and powder and lead sufficient for reasonable hunting purposes should doubtless be allowed them, and it has been a difficult and delicate matter to withhold as they have so long been accustomed to receive such articles from traders in the country before our arrival.

I do not deem it necessary to incur the risk of being prolix by particularizing or moralizing minutely on this subject, as it so fully accords with every person a experience, who is in the least degree observant, that whenever a community, which is prudent and industrious, comes in contact with one that is careless and Indolent, they are necessarily obliged to meet them at a disadvantage in almost every particular, except in the philanthropic channel of voluntary disbursements for their benefit, and the constant exercise of a high moral forbearance in their behalf. Under a full understanding of the necessities of the case, and in compliance with the instructions from your Department above referred to, -- knowing that five dollars expended in presents often prevents the necessity of spending five thousand in War, I have from time to time instructed judicious persons in all the settlements, to extend such aid to the Indians when in a suffering and destitute condition, as would lend to preserve their lives, give some little comfort to their bodies, soothe their untutored feelings, and create in them some respect for their great father the President, whose kindness and liberality to their brethren of the tribes in all regions, except theirs, they are familiar with, and have often asked upon what principle they are thrown away or neglected. The aid thus extended in presents of provisions, clothing, smithing &c. has been as small in amount as circumstances would admit of, when the large numbers thus relieved are considered; as will be seen from the accompanying vouchers from No. 4 to 9 inclusive, and its judicious application, so far as returns are as yet made, has without doubt been the means of saving many lives, and a great destruction and waste of property. The farmers at Iron, Millard, and San Pete counties have plowed the soil, sowed, tended and preserved the crops for the Indians, furnishing teams, tools, and seed to a much greater extent than the highest remunaration allowed by the Department, induced so to do by their philanthropy, and the special request of the Superintendency, to carry out the pacific policy of the Department.

The letters relating to a mule supposed to be government property, sent to Major Holeman under an envelope directed to me, are in his possession, as also the mule in question; and he will doubtless furnish the department all necessary information on that subject. The few remaining items vouched for, are within the legal, prescribed routine of the business of the department, and I trust need no further explanation. In all the expenditures, as per the accompanying abstract, I have been governed by the strictest principles of economy consistent with my judgment, and justice in the case, and as it is almost impossible in a newly settled country where the people are poor to effect much without prompt payment, I have therefore paid the accounts with the exception of a draft on the Department in favor of Dimick B. Huntington for $237. and shall draw in my favor payable to my agent for $8845.77. being the balance due me for disbursements for the two last quarters as per accompanying Account current.

I take the liberty to again call the attention of the Department to the propriety of some person, or persons being authorized to make treaties with the Indian tribes of this Territory, to purchase portions of their lands, and to grant them reasonable annuities, that they may not on the one hand fade rapidly from the earth by neglect and starvation, nor on the other be induced to plunder our citizens, or become an onerous burden on a sparse population struggling for a scanty subsistence amid much privation, until energy, severe toil, and time shall develop the comforts and conveniences of civilized life; and would further suggest that such person or persons be appointed from residents of this Territory on the ground of economy to the Government, and justice to the Indians, through a better acquaintance with their condition and wants: all of which is respectfully submitted.

Brigham Young

Ex-Officio Superintendent of

Indian Affairs Utah Territory

P.S. I transmit herewith the application, bond and license of Thomas C. Ivie of Utah County

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LETTER FROM J.H. HOLEMAN, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO BRIGHAM YOUNG, GOVERNOR OF UTAH AND SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Great salt Lake. City, Sept. 30. 1853.

Sir

In accordance with the regulations of the Indian department I submit for your consideration, the following report. I have the honor to transmit the same, through you to the department. Since my last annual report you are already advised of my official proceedings up to July.

By instructions from your excellency, dated June 30, I left this city on the 6th day of July, on an expedition to visit the Indians on the Humboldt and Carson Rivers. In the course of my journey I met with various small parties of Indians, principally of the Shoshonie tribe until I arrived at 1000 Spring Valley where I met with the Chief of a band of the Shoshonie tribes, by the name of Too-ke-moh, (the Rabbit) numbering about 600. I had previously met a party of his band on Goose creek, who informed we that the village was in the mountains, 3050 distance from the road - I employed one of the party to proceed to the village and invite their Chief and his band to meet me, in 1000 Spring Valley -- he, Too-ke-moh, and a portion of his band met me accordingly. After a talk, having found him friendly disposed to the whites and he having promised a continuance of his friendship, I gave him some presents to be distributed among his tribes as he might think proper leaving to him the selection, as I had not presents to give to all. He seemed much pleased with the kindness and attention shown him, an promised that no difficulties should occur to the whites so far as he was concerned -- that he and his band would not only treat them with kindness, but that they would render them any assistance in his power. Too-ke-moh, and his band claim the country adjacent to 1000 Spring Valley and west as far as the Humboldt.

When I arrived on the Humboldt, I met with various straggling parties of the Shoshonie tribe, who belong to a band under the Chief Ne-me-tekah (Man eater) whose band numbers about 500. I lay by two days and sent two of his band in search of him -- they brought him to my camp accompanied by his son and several of his braves -- I found him quite an intelligent Indian, noble in appearance and a very particular friend to the whites. He had never permitted any of his band to disturb the Whites; and told me that there were bad Indians on the Humboldt -- that would sometimes steal from the whites, but if they did not cease their depradations on the whites, he would collect his band together and make them. I gave him some presents which he received very friendly, but told me, he did not take them as pay for his friendship -- he was a friend and always had been to all the whites who travelled the road -- that as his great father, the Big Captain of the Whites (meaning the president) had sent them to him, it made his heart glad and he would never forget it. He sent two of his braves with me -- one, Paut-wa-araunte (the drowned man) who has a separate band of about 200 occupying the country around and about the first crossing of the Humboldt and directed them to find a chief, a friend of his, who resides near Stony point, called Oh-hah-quah (Yellow skin) who has a band of about 450, also of the Shoshonie tribe. They accompanied me to the village but Oh-hah-quah was absent on a hunt and could not be found -- I gave them some presents, and sent some to their chief -- all promised friendship to the whites, and were much pleased. Two of Oh-hah-quah’s band accompanied me down the Humboldt, upwards of 100 miles -- they enabled me to see many Indians, as they knew their haunts, all of whom promised friendship. About 75 miles from the Sink of the Humboldt, I met with a party of Banacks, belonging to a band under the Chief Te-ve-ra-wenah (the long man) two of them accompanied me to the Sink, for the purpose of finding the Chief -- he was off in the mountains, on a hunt -- they promised to meet me at the village near the Big Meadows on my return. After crossing the desert, to Carson Valley I found but few Indians until I arrived at the Mormon Station, near the head of the valley -- there I met with a number of the Pi-Utes and Washaws -- they were stragglers from their bands, hunting and fishing on the river. The Washaws reported that they had two chiefs, who were at that time in the mountains, they knew not where. This tribe is, and has been very troublesome. The many depradations which have been committed on the whites, in crossing the Sierra Nevada, no doubt has been by this tribe. The Pi-Utes are in two separate bands, commanded by two chiefs -- estimated, one at 300, and the other at 350-- they reside on Carson river and in the mountains east and southeast of the river -- they have been generally friendly to the, whites -- they are very poor.

Having exhausted my stock of Indian goods, and not being able to get a supply in the valley, I thought it best to send over the mountains as it was very important to have some, as I returned up the Humboldt for them -- I had, of necessity, to recruit and rest my animals. I made arrangements with Mssrs. Barnard & Reese to furnish me with such articles, as I thought necessary -- I left Carson Valley on the 7th of September. On my return, I met with many of the Pi-Ute tribe, on Carson River, though neither of the Chiefs; they were absent on hunting excursions -- all were very friendly -- no disturbance during the present season by the Indians. I gave them some presents and sent some to their Chiefs. At the Sink of the Humboldt I met with a few of the Banack tribe, who belonged to a band under the chief Te-ve-re-wena (the long man) they accompanied me to their village at the head of the Big Meadows -- their chief; with many of his braves was also on a hunt. This band numbers about 600. I held a talk with them -- all appeared very friendly -- seemed pleased with the friendship of their Great Father, in sending them presents -- they assured me, that the whites should not be disturbed by any of their band. The Humboldt runs through a narrow channel for some 45 miles above the Sink or Meadows, -- the bottoms are very narrow affording but little grass, and of course no game -- the Indians do not reside near the river, and I met with none until I arrived within fifty miles of Stoney point -- I here met a small band of Shoshonies, belonging to Oh-hah-quah’s band -- I gave them some presents and engaged a brave to accompany me to their village, near Stoney point. I found them much scattered on hunting parties -- I gave them presents of various kinds which seemed to please them very much -- they promised friendship to the whites, in future, and from their general conduct, I think they will adhere to their promises. Oh-hah-quah, sent two of his braves with me, for the purpose of finding some parties of his band who were out hunting, but they were not to be found. He informed me that there had been some trouble with the whites and Ne-me-tekah’s band, and that Ne-me-tekah had sent for him, and requested that he and his band would join him, for the purpose of killing all the whites that passed the road, as the whites had killed his son, and five of his braves, without any cause whatever. Oh-hah-quah refused to join Ne-me-tekah, and told him he was afraid I would be mad with him -- that he had promised me to be friendly to the Whites -- that he was afraid to tell me a lie -- that he would be friendly to the Whites until he could see me, which he knew would be in a few sleeps, meaning days, and advised Ne-me-tekah to wait until my return.

Near Stoney point, I met an emigrant train, who informed me, that a party of Californians who had been on the Humboldt on a trading expedition had killed six Indians, taken their horses, and left for California -- they travelled on the north side of the river and passed me, unknown. I hastened up the river and on arriving at Gravelly ford, I met two emigrant trains both of whom had been attacked by the Indians, four men were badly wounded, and had lost many of their stock, with one waggon, a quantity of provisions and much other valuable property. I sent the two Indians given me by Oh-hah-quah, to see Ne-me-tekah, and request him to cease further attacks on the whites, and to request him to meet me as soon as possible. They travelled all night, end the next day, and brought him to me, the second day, after much difficulty. He said he was afraid to see me -- that his conduct had been so different from what he had promised me that he feared I would be mad with him - he still expressed a great desire to be friendly with the whites, but said the whites would not be friendly with him -- that the whites had killed his son and his men, and taken their horses and guns, without any cause -- that they had never disturbed the whites or their property -- that it had made his heart feel bad, had made his men mad, and he could not restrain his men -- they were determined to be revenged on the whites. Having learned the cause of the troubles from an emigrant, who witnessed the attack and robery of the Indians by these California traders, I explained to him the difference between those traders and the emigrants -- that the emigrants were much opposed to such outrages on the Indians -- that their Great Father did not allow his white children to harm the Indians, &c. &c. When he became acquainted with the true situation of the migrant, and the difference between them and these traders, he seemed to regret the course he had taken -- but said, his heart was sick, at the murder of his son, and believing the whites were all to blame, he had sought revenge upon the first that passed, but now that he understood who had killed them, he was better satisfied, and that all further troubles should cease. I distributed to his band all the presents I had --sent them to the relatives of those who had been killed, all of which were received, apparently, with much satisfaction -- they promised that no further difficulties should occur on their part. I then proceeded on my journey -- met Pant-wa-a-raute with several of his band, and gave them the presents I had reserved for them. He was much pleased, and I left the Humboldt with the strongest assurances on the part of the Indians of their friendly feelings towards the emigrants. And I feel confident that if the emigration which have to pass the road this season (and they are few) will treat the Indians with any degree of kindness, there will be no further difficulties. When I arrived in 1000 Spring Valley, I found but few of Too-ke-moh’s band. He and the most of his band had left for the neighborhood of Fort Hall, where there is more game, and where they intend to winter. With these Indians I have had considerable intercourse -- by giving them a few presents, and always feeding them when they came to my camp. I have gained over them an influence and friendship, which seems to inspire them with confidence in me, and great friendship for the Government -- I feel assured of their amicable disposition and feeling at present.

I have given you as minutely as possible, an account of my expedition and given as nearly as I could, the substance and language of the Indians on all the most important matters. In my last annual report I gave it as my opinion that it was very important to the peace and safety of the travel on this route, that Government should establish a post on these rivers -- without which, I firmly believe that here will be no safety to emigration -- the road is lined with trading posts, from California to within 150 miles of this city -- they station themselves at every point where good feed is to be found -- their stock in trade consists principally in Liquor -- scarcely an article is found, such as the emigrants stand most in need of -- by their unkind treatment to the Indians, they make them unfriendly towards the emigrants -- scisms [sic] arise, which they take advantage of, and steal, and commit more depradations on the emigrants, than the Indians all of which they manage to have charged to the Indians. I was told by the Indians, that propositions had been made to them by some of these traders, to steal the stock of the emigrants, run them off into the vallies of mountains, and after the emigration had ceased passing, they would come, bring them guns, ammunition and blankets and trade with them for the stock stolen. I endeavored to put a stop to this species of trade and traffic. I informed them that they were violating the laws, and subjecting themselves to fines and punishment, and that I should be compelled to put the laws in force against them --they laughed at me -- they defied me and the laws -- they told me, there were so many of them, that they could and would do as they pleased, law or no law. As I had not a force, sufficient to enable me to enforce the laws, I could do nothing with them -- it was useless to attempt, what I had not then the power to enforce, and I was compelled to leave them to their will. In a previous communication, I gave you my views in relation to this section of the Territory -- from my recent trip, I am more strongly impressed with its importance. I feel satisfied, that until the Government throws protection over this route, and places the means within the reach of the officers to enforce their authority and the laws, there can be no safety to the travel -- the whites who infest the country are far more troublesome than the Indians.

Having been delayed on the Humboldt, quieting the difficulites with these Indians, I did not arrive in the city in time to make out my accounts, which should accompany this report before the mail will leave. Being relieved from duty, and my successor having arrived, I shall consequently leave for the states as soon as possible. I shall visit Washington immediately on my return, and if it will not be a violation of rule, I should be pleased, if you would receive this report and grant me the privilege of settling my accounts with the department. I cannot get them ready for this mail.

I have the honor to be -- very respectfully,

Your obt. Servt.

J.H. Holeman Ind. Agt.

Utah Ter.

His Excellency

Brigham Young

Ex-Officio Superintendent Ind. Affs.

Utah Territory.

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LETTER FROM BRIGHAM YOUNG, GOVERNOR OF UTAH AND SUPERITENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO GEORGE H. MANYPENNY, COMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Department of Indian Affairs U. Territory

Great Salt Lake City Sept. 30th. 1853.

Hon. George H. Manypenny

Commissioner of Indian Affairs

Washington City, D.C.

Sir,

In compliance with the regulations of the Department I transmit the following report for the quarter ending September 30th, 1853, together with a full list of the employees in this Superintendency, the Account Current, the Abstract and accompanying vouchers from No. 1 to 23, inclusive. Since my last report, but little has occured, immediately pertaining to this office, that would be of interest to the Department; still it may not be amiss, nor altogether uninteresting to allude slightly to aggressions by a portion of the tribe of Indians called Utahs, upon the persons and property of the inhabitants of this Territory.

On the 18th of July ult. Indian Walker, and his band gave vent to their evil feelings, and disregardless of uninterrupted and long continued acts, and expressions of the utmost kindness, commenced open hostilities by menacing the people at Springville, and killing a citizen at Payson. Since that date the Indians have killed three other persons, and wounded several more, and driven off between 3 & 400 head of cattle, and a large number of horses, and are still prowling around the weaker settlements, watching their opportunity to kill defenceless, and unarmed persons, and commit such other depredations as their necessities, or fancies may dictate Up to the present, we have continued to act entirely in the defensive, using all diligence to secure our crops, hay and winter’s fuel; in making forts, and yards for the security of our families and stock, and in tearing down houses, and putting them up inside the forts. These labors, with the additional duty of standing guard, and being always on the alert, have placed us under an exceedingly expensive and onerous burden, in addition to all the toil and privations always attendant upon settling new countries, and more especially a region so isolated and dreary as this Territory. In addition to these extra expenses and lose, the influence Walker and his band have exercised upon the friendly Indians within their immediate neighborhood and operations has caused this Superintendency an unusual and necessary expenditure, in presents, provisions &c. for said Indians. The necessity for this expenditure will be readily understood, when you reflect for a moment upon the readiness of all the Indians to commit depredations, upon very slight temptation, their anxiety, through their ignorance to come in considerable bodies to pay me a visit and tarry several days, to learn whether we design killing them all and the additional trouble & expense of forthwith sending to the small friendly bands in the neighborhood of our weak settlements, whenever any slightly unusual circumstance occurs, to forestall evils that may arise from misunderstandings.

Unavoidable circumstances have thrown a large portion of this expenditure upon the Superintendency, instead of the Agency & Sub-Agency.

With the exception of Indian Walker and his band, the Indians within our borders profess friendship so far as I am acquainted; but the Parvoans, near Fillmore City have stolen much wheat from the fields and are suspicioned with having shot a guard on his post the 13th inst. I have not heard of any depredations being committed on the persons or property of emigrants passing on the Humboldt or Mary’s River route, which is a gratifying indication of a more friendly feeling on their part; than has existed heretofore.

Soon after the commencement of the present Indian difficulties, I issued a revocation of all licenses to trade with Indians in this Territory, and have granted none since. I deemed this the most prudent course to pursue, until peace is restored, as otherwise it would be very difficult, if not impossible to prevent trading guns, powder, and lead to our enemies.

So far as I am informed, the employees in this Superintendency are uniformly diligent, faithful and economical in the discharge of their several duties.

As the duties and business of this office are constantly increasing, it would accommodate us very much, if you would forward a reasonable number of blanks by the first return mail if consistant with the usages of the Department, or give me instructions to have them printed here.

Major E.A. Bedell of Warsaw, Indian Agent for Utah, vice Major Holeman removed, arrived in this city on the 15th of August Ult. and reported himself ready for duty on the same day, but could not relieve Major Holeman, according to the strict letter of instructions from you, dated the 6th of last June, as Major Holeman was absent on a trip to Carson Valley, and did not return until last evening. Owing to this circumstance, I instructed Major Bedell to enter immediately upon the duties of his office and divided this territory into two Districts, the Eastern and Western, for the better conduct of the business of this Superintendency, assigning the region east of the N. & S. Territorial road to Agent E.A. Bedell, and the region west of said road to Sub Agent S.B. Rose. I have chosen the above named road as the best line of division for the present, dividing the country into nearly equal parts, and is a line already determined and easily recognized.

The item of wheat furnished the Indians, and charged in some of the bills may require explanation. It arises from the fact, that fine flour disagrees with many of them, and they prefer to take the wheat, and let the Squaws grind it after their fashion, which makes it more healthy for them.

I do not consider my duty fulfilled in this Report, without briefly alluding to the small annual amount appropriated by Congress for the Support of this Superintendency. It does not appear to me even supposable, that Congress is entirely ignorant of the number, and scattered condition of our settlements nor of the fact, that considerable numbers of friendly Indians are almost constantly harboring around these settlements, and depending upon them mainly for support, without returning an equivalent in labor or trade.

The result is, that notwithstanding the amount disbursed from Government funds for their relief, that amount falls short of their necessities, and very far short of their wishes, and demands, thus almost forcing our citizens to furnish the larger portion of the relief, or subject themselves to annoyance, depredation, and the loss of property by theft. The former course is pursued, being wisely deemed for the best and most humane policy, as you are already well aware that the resources for a livelihood, open to the natives by their country and habits are very limited.

Trusting that this my report is sufficiently extended & explicit, and that the accompanying papers are in due form; they are respectfully submited.

By Your Obt. Sert.

Brigham Young

Governor & Ex-officio of Indian

Affairs Utah Territory

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LETTER FROM BRIGHAM YOUNG, GOVERNOR AND SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, UTAH TERRITORY, TO GEORGE H. MANYPENNY, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

Superintendent’s Office U.T.

G.S.L. City Oct 31st 1853.

Hon George H. Manypenny

Commissioner of Indian Affairs

Washington City D.C.

Sir

I informed you in my last Quarterly Report dated Septr. 30th 1853. that Major Holeman late Indian Agent in Utah Territory, requested the privilege to proceed immediately on to Washington, and settle his accounts at the Department without presenting his accounts at this Office.

Circumstances which have transpired since, require a letter of explanation. Major Holeman reported himself at this office late in the afternoon of the 29th of September Ultimo, and remarked that he wished to proceed east immediately, and did not wish to take time to make out his accounts &c. here. I knew nothing further of his movements, until nearly dark the evening of the 17th inst. when Major Holeman called with his accounts, and reports for the Quarter ending December 30th 1852. June 30th/53. & September 30/53, remarking that he intended to start for the States on the following morning by 9 o.clock.

He was informed, that his papers could not pass a proper examination by that time, but would be examined, & forwarded by this, the first mail. He did not call on the following morning, and I supposed he had left. About noon of the 19th inst, he came to the office with some vouchers, which he said were paid since he finished his Reports, and was in a hurry and wished to leave in the afternoon, as part or all of the company had started, and inquired how he should arrange the extra vouchers, and was informed that the proper way was to pursue the required course with them; in reply, he said he had not time, and wished to know if they could not be forwarded with the rest, and was informed they could, at his risk on account of informality.

I have examined the accounts &c. for the Quarter above named, the extra vouchers of B.H. Young, & M.H. Peck, and find the following oversights, or errors, viz. in Quarter ending December 30th/52. Report dated wrong; voucher No 1. 34cts error; ditto No 6. error in addition; in Quarter ending Sept. 30th/53. A/C Current not balanced; voucher No 2. not in form, and incorrect; ditto No 10. error of $30; ditto No 22. no amount specified, & on the Abstract, there is $75 charged, for which there is no voucher.

In the short time which elapsed, between the presentation of these papers & the departure of Major Holeman, they could not be examined in time for him to become acquainted with their condition.

I now forward the accounts &c. for the Quarters named, by this the 1st of October mail. You will perceive they are unaccompanied by my Certificate. This arose from the fact that the disbursements were all made without any opportunity afforded me to know, or judge of their correctness, any further then from the papers themselves, and from Major Holeman’s statements which, in a personal settlement, are equally available to the Department, and even more so, as Major Holeman had no time to attend to their examination here, and answer such questions as I might have wished to ask; hence, I could see no opportunity, or necessity for my Certificate.

I trust that these explanations are sufficient for the subject, but holding myself ready to furnish my information in my possession, which you may require.

I enclose your letter to Major Holeman, bearing date Augt. 22nd 1853. and the Sheet of remarks which accompanied it, directed to my care, as I do not know the address of Major Holeman, and presume ho would prefer to find the papers in your office, when he calls to settle.

I Remain

Respectfully

Your Obt. Servant

Brigham Young

Governor & Ex-officio Supt. of

Indian Affairs for Utah Territory.

Letters from Nevada Indian Agents 1849-1861 (1981): 1849; 1850; 1851; 1852; 1853; 1854; 1855; 1856; 1857; 1858; 1859; 1860; 1861