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July 23, 2006
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Nevada History:
Letters From Nevada Indian Agents - 1858
[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. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO J.W. DENVER, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Camp Scott. Green River Co. Utah, T.
January 1 1858.
Gen. L.W. Denver.
Commissioner of I. Affairs
Dear Sir
There is now, no probability of the Army or Civil Department getting into Salt L. City before May or June or even then.
In compliance with the special request of the Acting Commissioner Mr.. Mix I have availed myself of every opportunity to get reliable information of the true condition of the Indians in this Territory. I have obtained some useful and interesting information. Since my last communication, Five Cheifs and seventy to eighty of their principal men visited me, representing two or the Utah Tribes or Bands. The Utahs claim the country between Salt L. City, Rocky mountains, New Mexico & Sierra Nevada. Those that were here seemed peacefull, but evidently poor, they belong to Dr Hurt Agency, & the Dr, informs me that they have renderred him some service on the Indian farms. These Bands are ancious [sic] to engage in agriculture & asked me to assist them, and also send a white man to instruct them. They informed me, that game, was very scarce in their country but plenty of good land.
Wash-a-kea principal chief of a small Tribe called "Snakes," sent me a special message last week informing me that he would visit me before the Army left. This Tribe is at present on Wind River, on lands belonging to the Crows, they claim Green River county, but game is too scarce here, & hence they go elsewhere for subsistence. The Snakes & some of the Utah Bands, have been at variance for some years, but both seem willing, to make friends, which I will endeavor to consummate in spring or sooner if possible.
Several persons who have done business among these different Tribes inform me that they have never molested any whites. I give the Utahs that visited me some presents. The Department have directed me to examine the financial accounts of Agents Hurt & Armstrong, which I cannot do, untill we get into (if ever) Salt Lake City.
I have received a communication since here, informing that the person appointed to the Agency, at Salt L. City, had declined, & I am consequently requested to continue Mr. Armstrong -- Mr. A. is a Mormon, & untill further instructed, I must decline recognizing him as an Agent. I believe the last Congress passed an Act for an Indian Agency, in Carson Valley, I think it would be advisable to appoint a suitable person to that Agency. Mr John Kerr, is here, in the employ of Mr Livingstone, and who I think would make a very good & reliable Agent. Mr Kerr has lived several years in this Territory, and seems familiar with Indian affairs. I also recommend the appointment of some person in the place of Mr Armstrong, at Salt Lake City.
Very Respectfully Your
ob. servt.
J. Forney
Superintendent, Indian
Affairs U.T.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO J.W. DENVER, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
CAMP SCOTT, GREEN RIVER CO. U.T.
January 6th 1858
Gen. J.W. Denver
Commissioner of I. Affairs
Dear Sir
The present that I have given to several Tribes who have visited me, I purchased here. The Snakes, is the only Tribe I exspect to interview with, before the Army leaves here.
This Territory is many miles from Steam Boat & R. Road communication, and no reliable way of importing small quantities of goods. Under the present embarrassed state of affairs it is uncertain of what point I may need my Indian goods. The public interest may require the distribution of presents among some of the Tribes without refference to the wants of the Indians. Mr Hockerday [sic], leaves for the States to day, with the intention to purchase & bring out a large stock of goods. I can make arrangements with Mr H. to furnish me with, Goods--flour--meat, farming implements, & any thing I may need for my Superintendency, at a less rate of per centage then it would cost me to import the Indian goods. Mr. Hockerday is well acquainted with the affairs in the Territory and can give you satisfactory information on the subjects alluded to in this letter.
Very Respectfully Your
ob. Serv.
J. Forney
Supt. I. Affairs U.T.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Fort Bridger April 17th 1858.
C.E. Mix Esq.
Acting Com. I. Affairs.
Dear Sir.
There has nothing peculiarly interesting transpired in my department, since my last communication.
I visited last week the So-Sho-Ne Tribe at present encamped on Bear River, fifty miles from here, in the direction of Salt L. City. I promised two Cheifs, of this Tribe, sometime ago--and when yet encamped in Weber Valley, that whenever they had move to Bear River, I would endeavor to visit them, consequently Tuesday evening of last week, two Cheifs, with seventy men, came to my place, all well mounted, to escort me to their camp. There was no backing out, on the following day we started. This was my first visit to an Indian Camp. I was decidedly pleased with the general appearance, & appearently industrious habits of these people. I was informed by one of the Cheifs, Ben Simon, who acted as Interpreter, that they had out almost constantly hunting parties. They have killed this winter, over a hundred elk & a large quantitiy of small game. They have also commenced traping in Bear River, & have already caught considerable otter & Beaver.
A small party, from this Tribe, were the first Indians that visited me, after our arrival here. This is one of the tribes B. Young, boasted, would assist him in the event of a conflict with the U. States. Several days intercourse, on my recent visit, enables me to say most confidently, that this Tribe, is true, to the Government, beyond all peradventure.
I received your communication informing me of the appointment of an Agent at S.L. City.
I will send my financial report, for the quarter ending March 31st, the first of next month. My visit to B. River, last week, & other official matters, prevents me sending it by to morrows mail.
Wag-AKee -- Principal Cheif of the Snakes, has send [sic] me word, that he & his principal men will visit me within two weeks.
White-Eye-Principal Cheif of the large Tribe of "Ute," spend part of the day at my Tent, he is evidently a man, calculated to rule, he wants me to see all his Cheifs & principal men before we leave this. Three of the Sho-Sho-Ne Cheifs have requested me, to meet them & all there people at "Bear Lake," in May, & give them a talk --which I can do on my way to Salt Lake City.
I remain Very Respectfully
Your ob. Sevt. J. Forney
Sup I. A. U.T.
__________
VERBATIM COPY OF LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO INDIANS BETWEEN GREAT SALT LAKE CITY AND CARSON VALLEY
Great Salt Lake City, Aug 2nd 1858
To
Indian Chiefs and Indians
Between this City & Carson Valley
My Friends,
Your Great Father at Washington send me to talk to all the chiefs & Indians in Utah Territory. I have been and talked already to many Chiefs and Indians since I am in this Territory. All the Chiefs I have seen are friends to me and to our great Father at Washington. The Americans & Mormons are all friends now -- they shake hands smoke and talk together.
Our good friend at Washington the president has send a good man here for Governor -- his name is Alfred Cumming. He is Governor over Americans -- Mormons and Indians. The Governor has many soldiers send to him by our good friend at Washington to punish all bad men.
White men and Indians will all be protected if they are good and peaceable. All men who kill and steal will be punished.
My Friends,
You must treat all white men who travel through your country kindly. I am your friend & will protect you if you are good. I will visit you by & by, and give you some presents. I am here in place by your great Father at Washington.
I am your friend
Jacob Forney
Supt. Ind Affs. U.T.
N.B. Mr Chapman is my friend and will talk to you -- all he tells you is right. I send you some powder, lead, & Tobacco, by my friend.
J. Forney
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Great Salt Lake City Sep 3. 1858.
Sir.
The conductor, drivers, & guard, carrying the U.S. Mail, to California, five in number were attacked, on Friday night, of August 20th last, at the Humbolt 320 miles, by a party of Indians. They took the Mail, Mules, Wagon and every thing the men had. They was no attempt made to kill any of the men. I learn that the Indians, on the Humbolt have been committing depredations for ten years. This is the first outbrake for this season. Our Post Master, give me a letter last Sunday, for the Govenor & myself. On Monday Govenor Cumming requested Genl. Johnston to send a sufficient military force to the Humbolt, for the protection of the Mail & travelers.
I asked General Johnston, through the Govenor, for a small escort, to accompany me, to the Humbolt and as far beyond it as contingent circumstances will allow me to go. The General, has consented to afford me every facility I may need for this or any other trip. I have just learned, that a Military force of 150 will leave next Sunday, for the Humbolt. As much of this force as I may require, will be at my disposal. I will leave in time next week to over take the Military before they reach the Humbolt.
I hope Agent Dodge will arrive before we leave, if not I will make arrangements for him to follow us immediately on his arrival.
I remain Respectfully
Your ob. Sevt.
J. Forney
Supt. Ind. Aff. U.T.
To,
Hon. C.E. Mix
Com Ind. Aff.
Washington
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Office Supt Indian Affs. U.T.
Great Salt Lake City Sept 11th 1858.
Sir,
I have all my arrangements concluded for my trip towards Carson valley. I will leave this to tomorrow. I have nothing additional from the Humbolt since my last letter to you.
The military detailed for the Humbolt left this last Wednesday, it will travel only 20 miles per day.
I will endeavor to establish friendly relations with the Indians along the Humbolt, this has never been done I am creditably informed. I will take some presents with me.
Agent Dodge came in the last stage and will accompany us, and I will go with him beyond the Humbolt as far as the lateness of the season will permit.
It is to be hoped that no necessity will arise, to bring about a conflict between the Military & Indians on the Humbolt. I will endeavor to prevent such a contingency.
Although those Indians have every fall committed depredations & killed Emigrants. I will apprize you by the return mail of affairs on the Humbolt.
I am Sir
very Respectfully
your ot. Svt.
J. Forney
Supt. Ind. Aff. U.T.
To
Hon. C.E. Mix
Com. Ind. affairs
Washington
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Among Hills, about 120 miles
west of Salt L. City
Sep. 16. 1858.
Dear Sir,
I left Salt Lake City last Sunday Evening, and his far on my way to the Humbolt & Carson Valley. I have already said to you that 150 of Genl. Johnstons command are on their way to the Humbolt to be stationed at the fist crossing of the Humbolt, for the protection of the U. States Mail, excepting those (if any) that will be deemed necessary for my safety to continue my journey westward. Since my arrival at this point, I have talked to a sub-Cheif of the Sho-Sho-Nie Tribe on or near the Humbolt, & also with a certain Barny Ward who has lived among the Indians, in this Territory for 20 years. both these say that Sho-Sho-Nies of Oregon drove away the mules from the mail party. These men also positively say that the mail or any thing else belonging to the mail party, was [not] in the least disturbed. There is also other testimony to the same effect. This Cheif & B. Ward assure me that if I go in advance of the Troops the Indians will not molest my party. I am also informed that some person or persons have lately told the Indians in the Northern & Western parts of this & in Oregon that the intention of sending soldiers here was to distroy all the Indians. What confidence can be placed in these persons is uncertain. There is no doubt that the Indians along the Humbolt have been looking form me, & have been disappointed not on account of any promises that I made them or authorized any one to make for me. But there is no manner of doubt that the Indians have been told within the last two months by certain interested parties that I will be at the Humbolt in a few days with presents. I fixed on no special time for leaving for this trip. I am not aware that the Tribes or fragment of Tribes on the Humbolt have been talked to by any Indian official. My object for visiting this section of country is to see & form friendly relations with all the Tribes in the Western portion of the Territory. I will over-take the Troops to morrow. The information we will receive to morrow will determine whether I will proceed in advance of the Military.
We should be 40 miles further on for the time we have been on the way. And would be too, but for several miserably bad streams we had to cross. We were six hours crossing a stream yesterday, of only about 15 to 20 feet wide. My carriage stuck in water & mud, near six feet several hours. There has been a bridge over this creek. The military command which preceeded us made a temporary bridge it was gone, before we reached the stream which left us to shift the best we could.
The mail from California is expected to pass here before morning in it I will send this very badly written letter. Late at night in my carriage. The mail runs weekly. I will write by the next.
I remain
Sir very Respct.
Your Friend
J. Forney
To.
Hon. C.E. Mix.
Com. Ind. A.
Washington
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM J. F[ORNEY], UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, ADDRESSEE UNKNOWN [POSSIBLE P.S. TO LETTER OF 16TH SEP]
Friday Morning. 17th Sept
Singular perverted accounts of the Mail difficulties, will find there way in the News papers. I have stated the facts I believe. The Indians here say that Col. Steptoes party were all killed a few days ago. This I do not believe.
I will write to you by every opportunity.
Truly Yours
J.F.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Rock Creek, Sept 18 1858.
Dear Sir,
I over-took the Military command, yesterday evening, & will proceed as speedily as possible to the Humbolt, & Carson Valley. The mail difficulties are evidently much exaggerated. I have learned from reliable information, that the mules taken from the mail party was by Oregon Indians, & it would also seem, that the Indians living on the Humbolt have not commited any depredations on the mail party.
We have just met the mail party from California who inform me that reports are in circulation through California in relation to my having send [sic] ammunition to the Indians on the Humbolt.
I send a few presents with the first mail party to be used for there protection & safety of the mail. The presents did not amount to 25$ -- and were not properly distributed. I will write more by the next mail.
I remain very
Respectfully
Yours
J. Forney
To Hon. C.E. Mix
Com. Ind. Aff.
Excuse this badly written letter.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, ACTING COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Camp in
Valley of 1000 Springs. Sep 23 -- 1858.
Dear Sir.
Why this valley, has the above name, is more then I can realize, we hjave travelled 28 miles of it, and have only met with two springs.
We are, I presume, two days in advance of the Military, we are now encamped for dinner, and will make the first crossing of the Humbolt, for the same, to morrow. The road passes along the Humbolt 75 to 200 miles. Where we anticipate meeting with several tribes of Indians -- Pi-utes & Sho-Sho-Nies.
Before the Mail meets us, from California I may have something to say to you about the Ute Indians.
I met three days ago, East of the Goos creek valley, a large band of Sho-Sho-nies. The Cheif of this band had I presume sosme knowledge of my coming; he send two of his men to meet me with a letter from Col. Lander to me. This was written at "City Rocks" & junction of the Fort Hall Road, with this dated 15th inst. only four days previous to my receiving it.
__________
LETTER FROM S.M. STEWART, CLERK, TO C.E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Office Supt. Ind. affs. U.T.
Great Salt Lake City U.T.
Sept 27th 1858
Sir
I am in receipt of a letter from Dr. J. Forney now en route for the Humbolt, dated Camp on “Goose Creek” 60 miles from Humbolt sept 21st, 1858.
At the time of writing he was one day in advance of the Military Command which accompanied him from this place. It was his intention to push on as rapidly as possible, as he was not apprehensive of any danger from the Indians. He received a letter from Col Lander, who is now engaged in a road survey near Goose Creek, informing him that the Indians in that vicinity were all friendly. The Same day he met a band of one hundred & fifty Indians who were friendly. He thinks the reports of depradations committed by Indians on the Humbolt have been exagerated. I am also in receipt of a letter from Mr. Jacob Hamblin, who lives in the neighborhood of where the “Massacre” was committed last September.
He reports having recovered four more of the children. (making (fourteen) in all, which number he has at his residence.
I am sir
Your obt. svt.
S.M. Stewart
Clerk to supt.
Hon C.E. Mix
Commissioner
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO F. DODGE, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT
Humbolt Valley Oct 6th1858
Verbatim
To
F. Dodge Esqr
U.S. Indian Agent
U. Territory
Dear Sir
I have been appraised of your appointment of Indian Agent for the Indians adjacent to Carson Valley U.T. and also of the execution of your bond. I am requested by the Indian department to give you such further instructions as I may deem necessary.
First -- In regard to the judicious place for your “Head Quarters” I am unable to give you any specific advise. I would suggest some point however for the present to enable you without too much inconvenience to have some care over the Indians in the Humbolt Valley.
Secondly -- As soon as compatible with your other duties, ascertain the number of tribes and location in your Agency, and as you have leisure, also the number, habits & condition of the Indians.
3d -- It is desirable as soon as you have ascertained the where-abouts of the tribes, to make some geographical explorations with a view of selecting suitable reservations, for agricultural & herding purposes, for the Indians in your Agency. The number and extent of such reservations must be left to your judgement.
4th -- It would in my opinion be most compatible for the public interest & welfare of the Indians to concentrate them as much as possible. In my opinion most of the depredations are committed by small bands and stragling Indians.
5th -- The Py-Ute tribe living in and claiming the western portion of the Humboldt Valley should be induced to locate on a suitable reservation in Carson Valley as soon as you can make the necessary arrangements.
You will during this winter exercise circumstantial supervision over the several bands of Sho-Sho-Nees at present living in the eastern portion of the Humboldt Valley. In reference to the amount of funds that will be given to your Agency I can not say at this time, but I will write to you when I get back to Salt Lake City. You may however expect from three to eight thousand dollars.
The presents I brought with me were intended for the Indians in Humboldt Valley, but in consequence of not having met as many as I expected we might meet--all were not given out. I will forward to you to Carson Valley those that are left, Blankets, Shirts, pants, Tobacco & some ammunition.
It would be in accordance with my wishes if you could have a talk with the Py-Utes this fall & give them something.
I know so little about Carson Valley & the Indians in your Agency that any instructions from me at this time can only be general. I will be pleased to hear from you frequently. I will write to you as soon as I get back to Salt Lake City.
I remain very Respect-
Your obt Serv.
J. Forney
Supt. Ind. Aff. U.T.
N.B.--You are authorized to draw on me at at Salt Lake City, for five hundred dollars. I will as soon as I get to Salt Lake City make such arrangements in reference to funds for your Agency as the law in such cases provides.
Humboldt Valley Oct 7th 1858.
J. Forney
Supt Ind. Aff U.T.
You are authorized to purchase, but the amount & kinds of presents, the Indians in you Agency is left to your judgement, bearing in mind however that economy is necessary in as much as the appropriation for my Superintendency is not large. I am willing however to give as much to your agency as circumstances will permit.
J. Forney
Supt Ind Aff U.T.
Humboldt Oct 7th 1858
To F. Dodge Esq.
Indian Agent
Carson Valley
U.T.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO C.E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Great Salt Lake City, Oct 29. 1858
Friday Night.
Dear Sir.
I returned this evening from Humbolt Valley, I was over 500 miles west of this city. In consequence of the lateness in the season, & so much to do elsewhere, and finally having seen all the Indians, who have been considered unfriendly, I deemed it most prudent to turn back I requested Agent Dodge, to visit the tribes, in & adjacent to Carson Valley, this fall & winter.
I am sorry to learn, that, since my absence, three “Ute,”, Indians, have committed a gross act, the sequences, of which, may lead to serious difficulties. I have not learned all the facts yet, having only been home a few hours. It affords me pleasure, to inform you, that the Govenor (who in my absence, attended to my official business) attended promptly to the above matter. I will communicate the particulars next mail.
I only received my new commission a few days before leaving for the Humbolt, & while buisily engaged day & night getting ready. I sincerely hope, you will appreciate my reasons, for not sending my “new bond”, sooner, all will be attended to, next week. I will send you, a full report of my Humbolt trip by next mail.
I remain very
Respect. Your ob. sert.
J. Forney
Supt. Ind, Aff U.T.
To.
Hon. C.E. Mix
Com. Ind. Aff.
Washington
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM A. CUMMING, UTAH TERRITORIAL GOVERNOR, TO CHARLES E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Executive Office
GSL City UT
5th Nov 1858
Hon Charles E. Mix
Sir
It is but an act of justice to that gentleman to state that superintendent Fornay [sic] has been very diligent in the performance of his official duties in this country, He having visited a large portion of all various bands.
In the latter part of August--Mayfield filed an affidavit in my office alledging that he had been engaged as the conductor of the Over land Mail and that the Indians near the Humboldt had stolen the mail--the mules & wagon indeed everything except the arms and ammunition. I immediately caused an imposing force to be sent to that point --Supt Fornay found large numbers of Indians--who were all friendly--he dispenced with the further service of the Military force--and proceeded as far as Gravelly Ford.
During the absence of Supt F. I was compelled to avail myself of the services of Ex Agent G. Hurt in attempting the arrest of 3 Ute Indians near Spanish Fork. Charged with the commission of brutal horrors upon a woman and her daughter near the Indian farms--these Indians belonged to Ex agent Hurts Agency indeed one at least of the perpetrators had lived with him--I hoped therefore that he would succeed in arresting them in person or at least with the aid of a civil posse but in all I was disappointed--and was compelled to place a military posse under Hurts control--with this aid two of the offenders were secured--but from some strange mismanagement one of the Sub-chiefs a very good Indian son of one of the principle chiefs was pursued a long distance by a mounted soldier and altho he showed no resistance was shot down with a ball in his back. In the vacinity of the wall of the neighboring village “Spanish Fork”--
This unfortunate affair was perhaps inevitable--but is no less to be regretted--as the Indians fled to the neighboring mountains and two white men have been now found dead--about 60 miles below “Spanish Fork” and in the same vicinity an Indian mortally wounded. Supt Fornay who has returned from the Humboldt--will proceed to Manti investigate the matter and I trust will with energy pursue such steps as will prevent any further troubles with these Utes of Hurts agency who seem to me to be the worst people in the Territory.
Very Respectfully
your obt. srt.
A. Cumming
Gov
Hon Charles E. Mix
Commissioner Washington
__________
LETTER FROM A. CUMMING, UTAH TERRITORIAL GOVERNOR TO CHARLES E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Executive Office
GSL City U.T. 5th November 1858
Unofficial
Hon Charles E. Mix
Sir
I address you, at the request of Superintendent Forney, who recently returned from an important, but fatiguing journey to the Country of the Western Sho-sho-nes, White-Knives and Bannocks, bordering the Humboldt from the “First Crossing to “Gravelly Ford.”
After visiting the various tribes in this part of the Territory, the Superintendent was suddenly called upon (in anticipation of the time fixed upon him) to visit the Indian Tribes on the Humboldt, by an affidavit, filed by one of the Mail Conductors, alledging that the Indians, in that quarter, were hostile, having, (as stated) stolen their mules &c &c.
I made an immediate requisition for a suitable military force and the Superintendent was compelled to leave here without having completed his Annual Report. And has now to regret, that very important omissions, were made by his clerk, with whom he left the rough Draft and notes of his report.
Superintendent Forney requests me to state, that he will be able to furnish a revised Copy by next mail, and therefore expresses a wish that you will retain the former Copy of his report for 8 or 10 days, provided the delay will not interfere with its publication in connection with your Report.
I believe the Superintendent feels more anxious on this subject, in consequence of a rumor, that certain persons have conspired to displace him, and place Ex Agent Hurt or somebody else in his Office.
I have endeavored to convince him that the Administration would not do so unwise a thing as to remove him at the mere suggestion of a Clique, and place in his stead a man so notoriously unfit as Hurt is supposed to be.
Very Respectfully
your obt svt.
A. Cumming
Gov Utah Terry
To
Hon: Charles E. Mix
Commissioner of Ind. Affrs
Washington
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO CHARLES E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Important and Confidential
Great Salt Lake City U.T.
November 5. 1858
Hon. Charles E. Mix
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Dear Sir
Circumstances beyond my control force me to ask of you a special favor.
I was obliged, early in September, to leave suddenly for the Humboldt in consequence of Indian difficulties there. I left with my Clerk, ample notes for my annual Report. Since my return, I have examined the Copy of the Report and find it very imperfect, and doing me injustice. My friend Governor Cumming has appreciated my great disappointment and has at my request written to you. If it is at all possible please retain the said Report in your possession one or two weeks so as to enable me to forward you a true Copy of my annual Report. I feel confident that I can have it ready by next Mail. I will regard it as a special favor if my request can be granted without interfering with the publication of your papers.
As I hope by next mail to forward to you my full annual Report, I sincerely hope that it will be in time to be published instead of the other.
I remain very respectfully
Your obedient Servant.
J. Forney
Supert Ind. Affairs for Utah.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO CHARLES E. MIX, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Superintendents Office
Great Salt Lake City Utah Territory
November. 1858
Hon. Charles E. Mix
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Washington D.C.
Sir,
I have already apprised you, in several communications, of my intention to visit the Humboldt Indians and latterly of my having done so. I returned from this trip last friday evening. It had been my intention from my first advent into this Valley, So soon as compatible with other official duties, to visit the Indians, on the great Northern rout to Califa.
It was, only, since the middle of last June, that my movements have been unincumbered by political entanglements. Since then, as I have frequently advised your Department, my entire time has been devoted to official duties.
In pursuance of your request, that I would visit, with as little delay as possible, the Indian Tribes, and ascertaining their locality and condition. This I have done so far as time and other duties would permit.
The Tribes & Bands in this Territory, with but one or two exceptions live almost entirely in and adjacent to the Valleys through which the Northern and Southern Roads to California from this City, pass. As also on and near the road to the South Pass of the Rocky Mountains.
Previous to my trip to the Humboldt, I had visited or had had business relations, with the following Tribes; the Snakes, under their Chief Wash-a-keek, the Sho-sho-nees, under Little Soldier, the Utes, the Bannocks, the Pay-vantes & Go sha Utes. I have given a hasty account of all the above tribes in my late report.
About the last of August or the beginning of September last, I was apprised that the Indians of Humboldt Valley had committed depredations on the U.S. Mail, and took immediate steps to ascertain the facts from what seemed, reliable testimony. It was said that several thousand hostile Indians were assembled in that Valley, and that the mail and all connected with it, and all travellers were threatened.
I immediately made known these statements to his Excellency Govr Cumming, who at once made a requistition on Genl Johnston for one hundred and fifty troops, to march to the Humboldt, without delay. In pursuance of this request, Captain Haws with 150 men, were sent on said expedition, with orders not to proceed beyond the first crossing of the Humboldt.
Twenty men of said command were (if necessary) to accompany me to Gravelly Ford. I left this city Sept 12 for the Humboldt, having with me, an ambulance, one Govt Wagon with provisions and presents. One hired wagon & team & driver in all seven men including Interpreters, guide, drivers, Cook &c. Mr. Dodge, Agent for Carson Valley, also accompanied me.
Sept 13. At Farmington, 16 miles north of this city I met “Little Soldier” a Chief, with about fifty Sho-Sho-Nees. For prudential reasons, it was deemed advisable to give them some provisions. This Band, with others of the Sho-Sho-nees have been solicited by the hostile Indians in Oregon to aid them against the Government, but without success. Chief “Little Soldier” expressed great solicitude for my safety, was fearful I would not return safe. By my directions, a small quantity of flour and beef was distributed to his Band.
Sept 19. This morning, two Indians met me at the first crossing of Raft River (or Creek) with a letter from Col Landers (Superintendent of the Honey Lake Rout) date City Rocks, Sep 15th(inst) The Col recommended the “Band”, to which these two belonged, to my consideration. At our noon halt, I sent and express to the Indian Camp fifteen miles west of us and in the evening Chief Po-Ko-Tell with fifty of his men, came to my Camp. This Chief is a young man, and seems to exercise complete control over his “Band” I has some “Talk” with them. And after a smoke, and some bread & coffee, I dismissed them for the night, requesting the Chief to bring all his people including Squaws & Children to our camp early next morning.
Sept 20. The whole “Band” numbering about 150 came early to my Camp. After feeding them. I had a considerable “Talk” in the presence of the whole band. They acknowledge no Chief superior to the one with them. They assured me, they had never molested the Whites, either by stealing or otherwise but ever have been and are now friendly. Col Landers also bears testimony in their favor. This Band call themselves Sho-sho-nees. Their haunts are Deep Creek, Raft Creek, and other neighboring Valleys during the summer, all being in the neighborhood of the California Road. And during the winter, they approach the northern settlements and roam among them. This “Band” in character, habits and condition are similar to others I met in the progress of my journey. I may therefore recur to them. With the exception of their Chief and a few of the young men, who are well provided with Blankets &c all are very destitute, many entirely naked. I gave them some presents, the first they had ever received from a Government Official.
We overtook the military Command at Cedar Springs, about 200 miles west of this City, and travelled two days with them. I then received some intimations of the feelings of the Humboldt Indians, and deemed it advisable to proceed as expeditiously as possible to the Humboldt. I should have started before that, at the first mail Station beyond the settlements, we picked up a Chief belonging to one of the Humboldt Bands. He turned out to be a decent old man, and was of considerable service to us.
I left the command at the top of the Goose Creek Mountains, and proceeded on my way, passing through some small valleys with abundant grass and Water. These valleys are believed to be in an altitude sufficiently low to admit of successful cultivation. But they are almost entirely destitute of timber.
Sept 24th. At 2 PM After winding through a narrow and decidedly one of the most strange Kanyons in the Territory we reached the Humboldt Valley. And before we proceeded two miles, we saw Indians on a hill at some distance. We encamped, and our old Chief soon brought about 20 fine looking indians to our camp they were almost naked. These belonged to our old Chiefs band. Hoping that more Indians would come to us, we concluded to remain where we were for the night.
During my stay in Humboldt Valley, there were more or less Indians in the Camp, daily. All hungry of course, I fed them I had fortunately made provision for such a Contingency.
September 25. The Old Chief despatched several of the young men to notify the Indians to meet me in Council, at a point designated by him.
Sept 30 I arrived yesterday at the point designated, where I found the Indians assembling. There are now four chiefs present viz Py-poo-roo-yan, San-Pitch, We-ra-goo, Tse-mak & Paw-sha-quin. Representing two “Bands” and probably 4 to 600 Indians; there are now about 250 with us. My “Council” and “Talks” with these indians was entirely satisfactory. One of these “Bands” have some horses and ponies, and a few of the men have Buffalo Robes. They are Sho-sho-nees, and recognize Wash-a-keek as their great Chief. I distributed some presents among them. from these, I learned that two or three sleeps further down the river, there are two other “Bands” called “White-Knife” Sho-sho-nees.
October 3. Stoney Point, 450 west of Great Salt Lake City. We met yesterday a Band of the White-Knife Sho-sho-nees, and sent for their chief. & then drove some distance from the road, and met them some ten miles from our camp. After some talk, they expressed themselves very friendly. And the whole band encamped adjacent to us about 130 in number, and of course hungry. I fed them. The other “Band” of White knife Sho-sho-nees, are on Snake River, in Oregon where they intend wintering, on account of the abundance of fish in that River. After a satisfactory “talk” with this band, I gave them some presents. This Band have one Chief who has complete Control over them. They number 2 or 300. Over 120 are now with us.
I extended my visit west of “Stoney Point,” near a hundred miles into the Pey-Ute Country, hoping to meet this Tribe. I learned from Straggling Pey-Utes along the road, that their Chief was further down & near the Humboldt. On arriving at the Mail Station, 550 miles from Great Salt Lake City, I learned that the Chief and nearly all his people, were at Pyramid Lake. I therefore concluded on account of the lateness of the season, and so much to do elsewhere, to turn back. This Py-Ute tribe is in the Carson Valley Agency. Agent Dodge is now there, and will visit this Tribe as soon as compatible with other duties.
October 8th Agent Dodge, proceeded to Carson Valley in the Stage, having accompanied me from GSL City to this point. In all, I met about fifty Pey-Utes, and distributed presents among them.
There are four “Bands” of Sho-sho-nees living in and about Humboldt Basin. These claim the Valley for about two hundred miles, extending from the eastern boundary, to a range of hills about 30 miles west of “Stony Point,” which is the dividing line between them and the Pey-Utes; And I cannot learn that either encroach upon the others land. The part claimed by the four Sho-sho-nee Bands is divided into two, about equal parts, two Bands occupying each together. The White-knife Sho-Sho-nees, live in the Western portion, and are ruled by two chiefs.
Whilst I consider Humboldt valley one of the largest and best watered in the Territory, and adapted to agricultural & herding purposes, yet, in its natural state, it affords very little for Indians to subsist upon. Like every other portion of this Territory with which I am acquainted, Humboldt Valley is devoid of game, with the exception of a few Antelope and Rabbit. The Indians there, like those I met in Raft Creek Valley, and many others in this Territory, are obliged, to sustain life, to eat, besides the usual game, snakes, lizzards, swifts, wolves, Grass hoppers, Crickets, Ants and their eggs &c &c. All the Indians I I[sic] saw, west of the Settlements, are poor, miserably poor, many entirely naked. In this trip, I meet four Bands of Sho-Sho-Nees and over 700 Indians who had never been officially seen by any Government officer, previously.
It affords me pleasure to say to you, that my trip has been successful beyond all expectation. I have entered into friendly relations with these Indians. They know nothing of our Government, were entirely and completely ignorant of it, and its laws. I took great pains to explain the nature and power of our Government; the great efforts that are constantly being made for the good of the Indian. I told them plainly, the consequences that would follow, in the event of depredations committed by them. That whilst I was sent here to do them good, yet I was also here to punish, if the committed depredations either upon the person or property of Whites. They all pledged themselves solemnly, to me, that in future they would behave. I am well aware that the Indians, whom I have just visited, are accused of having committed sundry depredations, ever since their country became part of the United States. These Indians are entitled to some extenuation for their conduct heretofore. They never knew their duty towards white men. I have made rigid enquiry in relation to the Indian difficulties or depredations on the Humboldt, and am inclined to think, there is not much balance against them. They have been shot down for trivial causes. They have been robbed, and have received other ill treatment from the whites. I have already alluded to the Mail difficulties on the Humboldt in a former letter. The requisition, by the Governor, for a Military force to proceed to the Humboldt, was mainly on account of an affidavit by persons with the mail. I made strict enquiry about this matter. All the Indians on the Humboldt without exception, say that the Bannocks, from Oregon, took the mules. Several Whites confirm this.
The Humboldt Indians may have been hostile in August, but when we were there, there were no evidences of hostility. And I so notified Captain Haws, by express, he being about fifty miles in the rear, and informed him, I needed no escort. Capt Haws then turned back, and I proceed on about 300 miles further.
On my way home, at Box Elder, seventy miles north of this, a Band of Sho-sho-nees, numbering 128 met me. These have recently broken off from Little Soldiers Tribe. I was unable to learn from them the cause. They made demands for sundry things. I distributed among them a small quantity of flour, beef and a few presents. The Indians loafing about the Northern Settlements, are a source of considerable annoyance to the inhabitants, much complaint was made to me while passing through there, recently.
I remain very,
Respect. your. ob. sevt.
J. Forney
Supt. Ind. Aff U.T.
Letters from Nevada Indian Agents 1849-1861 (1981): 1849; 1850; 1851; 1852; 1853; 1854; 1855; 1856; 1857; 1858; 1859; 1860; 1861