.jpg)
July 24, 2006
Nevada's Online State News Journal
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| . | |||||||
Nevada History:
Letters From Nevada Indian Agents - 1859
[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 F. DODGE, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Office Indian Agent,
Carson Valley, U.T.
January 4th, 1859
Sir--
In accordance with your instructions to me, dated Humboldt Valley Oct 6th and 7th 1858, I beg to submit to you the following facts in relation to the Indians within this agency.
As near as I can ascertain at present, the Py-Ute nation numbers some 6000 souls. I have seen and given presents to 3735 which are located as follows.
Wun-a-muc-a (The Giver) is the head chief of the nation. He generally stays on “Smoke Creek”, near Honey Lake. His family and small band that stays with him number 155.
“San Joaquin’s” band stays in Carson Valley at the forks of the River, and numbers 170.
“Had-sa-poke” (Horse Stopper’s) band stays at Gold Canyon on Carson River, and numbers 110.
“Wa-he” (Fox’s) band stays at what is known as the big bend of Carson River, and numbers 130.
“O-derk-e-o” (Tall Man’s) band,
“Pe-tod-se-ka” (White Spot’s) band,
“To-sarke” (Grey head’s) band.
These three bands are the largest I have seen since my arrival in the Territory. They stay in the country around the Lakes and Sinks of Carson and Walker’s Rivers. I had a talk with them at Carson Lake on the 26th of November last, and gave them some presents. They then numbered 848 men, 372 women, and 405 children.
Total members in these three bands 1625 “To-no-yeit’ (Woman helper’s) band stays below the big meadows on the Truckee River, and numbers 280. “To-Keepe” (Lean man’s) band, stays near the lower crossing of the Truckee River, and numbers 360.
“Ge-nega” (Dancer’s) band stays at the mouth of Truckee River, and numbers 290.
“Wat-So-gue-order” (Four Crow’s) band stays along the shores of Pyramid Lake, and numbers 320.
“Wun-a-muc-a” (The Second’s) band stays around the shores of lower Mud Lake, and numbers 300.
Total Py-utes visited 3735.
The Washo nation number about 900 souls, and inhabit the country along the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, from Honey Lake on the north, to the west fork of Walker’s River on the south.
They are divided into three different bands. “Capt Jim’s” band is located in the vicinity of Carson, Washo and Eagle Valleys, and Lake Bigler.
This band numbers 145 men, 110 women, and 87 children. Total 342.
I have had a talk with this band and given them some presents. “Capt Jim” is the head chief of the nation.
“Pos-Sarke’s band is located in Little Valley between the east and west forks of Carson River, and numbers about the same as Capt. Jims band, 340.
“Deer-Dick’s” band lives in and claims Long Valley southeast from Honey Lake, and numbers about 300.
Total Washos visited - - - 342.
“ Py-Utes “ - - - - 3735.
--------------------
Total number of Indians visited within this agency
4077.
Thus it will be seen that I have met and given presents to over four thousand Indians, and never before have I beheld as much wretchedness and destitution.
The Py-utes are undoubtedly the most interesting and docile Indians on the continent. By proper management these Indians may be made to compete with the whites in agricultural pursuits.
They are extremely anxious to cultivate their lands, and will make excellent men to work. some of them now take hold of a scythe and mow Drive oxen or a four horse team. equal to a white man.
They have never received any presents from the government, or from a government official until now, except a few things given them by Dr. Hurt, some two or three years ago.
I am sorry that I cannot speak in as favorable terms of the “Wa-sho Nation.” They are not inclined to agricultural pursuits, nor any other advancement towards civilization. They have no clothing except for the merest apology for a breech-cloth.
Whatever policy may finally be adopted, in relation to these unfortunate people, I can assure you that none can be worse or productive of more evil to both them and the whites than the present joint and promiscuous occupation of the country. And like other tribes when brought into contact with the humane and christianizing influence of the white man they have acquired a taste for whiskey.
The Py-Utes should be allowed to retain some of their present locations, especially the Valley of the Truckee River, which would have the advantages of being their home from choice, combined with being the best and only suitable site for a large reservation and permenant agency in this part of the Territory.
Since my arrival here, I have traversed a large portion of the country for this purpose. I have followed the meanderings of several of the principal rivers for hundreds of miles, but I have seen none that can compete with and offer the same advantages, as what is known here by the name of the “Truckee Meadows.” It contains some 15000 acres of good land, well adapted for agricultural or herding purposes.
In its vicinity is an abundance of the lofty pine. The majestic “Coo-you-e-hoop” or Truckee River could be carried out for irrigation purposes. And in its season it affords one of the finest and largest fisheries in the Territory, both of the Speckled and Salmon trout. This in my opinion is the best and last chance for a good home for the poor Py-Ute and Wa-sho.
The other valleys are in a great measure occupied. There is one settler whose improvements consists of a tolerable good frame house only on these meadows, but he has located himself in the centre--a situation that I should not select for a building spot for an Agency. Therefore should you order me to lay off this section of country for a reservation--the property right and title of the land in this Territory being in the government--you can purchase this mans house, or order him off as you see fit.
If you conclude to make a home for these Indians, it will require immediate actin so far as making the selections is concerned and defining the boundaries. For I am informed thus--as soon as the snow disappears there will be quite an emigration to these valleys. You will see by reference to a map that this place is also central for an agency. The Truckee River takes its rise from lake Bigler and empties into Pyramid Lake. Should this site not meet your approbation, there are several others of minor importance, and such as you saw on the Humboldt, destitute of timber.
I would here recommend that a large extent of country be taken up, and ll in one body, and to concentrate the whole Py-utes and Wa-sho nations upon it, making one expense do for both, and the fact of the Py-Ute nations being large requires the same.
This policy also agreed with your opinion in the 4th Sec of your instructions, and I believe the policy of the government has been to withdraw the Indians from such parts of the country as would necessarily expose them to to [sic] contact with the white settlers, as the only means of averting frequent difficulty. Indians and whites cannot as a general rule live together. It is not in the nature of things, and it is far from being solely the fault of the Indians.
The pioneer invades the hunting ground of the Indians. He goes to reduce natures wilds to the dominion of the white man--to possess the country, and to rear in it the institutions of civilization. His mission drives before him and from the graves of his ancestors, the once mighty, but now wretched. Him whose name we are all pride to own, (the true American) and naturally and inevitably exasperates him to acts of crime and barbarity.
It is a well known fact that the loss of life on the Humboldt River for years past, both to the whites and the Indians, has been most lamentable. The Humboldt Indians see by the experience of other tribes, that roads are the harbingers of civilization, and the certain sign of their own subjugation, and final extermination. All they ask is something to eat, and here lies the true secret of most of the Indian depredations upon this great line of travel.
The encroachments of the Emigrant have driven away the game upon which they depend for a subsistence. They cannot hunt upon the territories of neighboring tribes, except at risk of their lives. They must therefore steal or starve. Every few miles too on this great thoroughfare, both on the Humboldt and Carson Rivers, can be found a whiskey shop, the proprietors of which have the presumption to call trading posts.
Some of these inhumane vendors of poisonous Liquor to the poor ignorant Indian, will take the last Badger or Rabbit skins from him; a few of which, joined together as a woman would patch a “quilt”, being his only dependence for a covering to protect him from the bitter cold and deep snows of this inclement wilderness.
The poverty I saw last fall among the Sho-Sho-Nee’s nation, is not a circumstance compared with this winter and the suffering and destitute condition of the poor Py-Utes and Wa-sho. The snow in the valley here at this time averages six inches deep. The only shelter these poor homeless wanderers have, is to lay about in the Artemisia or Sage bushes, and their sole dependence for subsistence this winter, is a little grass seed. The Rivers are frozen over which prevents them from fishing ad the “Pine Nuts” another of their main dependences for food have failed.
There is scarcely an hour that passes in a day, but what brings some sad picture of wretchedness to my door, beging for a sufficiency to sustain life. A few days ago a Wa-Sho died from actual starvation and exposure in the vicinity of Lake Bigler, which is situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and another was found dead at the base of those mountains yesterday from the same cause.
Many a weary day went by,
While wretched and worn he beged for bread,
Tired of life, and loving to lie
Peacefully down with the silent dead,
Hunger and cold, and scorn and pain,
Had wasted his form and seared his brain;
At last on a bed of frozen ground,
In the Sierra Nevada was the outcast found.
No mourner lingered with tears or sighs,
But the stars looked down with pitying eyes,
And the chill wind passed with a wailing sound,
O’er the foot of the mountain where the form was found;
But out where every human door
Is closed to children accursed and poor,
Who opens the heavenly portals wide,
Ah! God was near when the outcast died.
Something will be done to better the constitution of the poor “Py-Ute” and “Wa-sho.” His present state is intolerable, and feeble is the helping hand that I am enable to extend for his relief. But in the sweet name of charity I beg in his behalf, that a home be made for him, some asylum for the starving outcast, where he can be free from the curse upon him now, among the whites. Truly said, the moral atmosphere about him, is deadlier than death.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
F. Dodge.
Indian Agent
Jacob Forney Esqr.
Superintendent Indian Affs.
Utah Territory
__________
LETTER FROM CHARLES B. LAFITTE, TO F. DODGE, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT
Copy
Genoa Carson Valley U.T.
January 27th 1859
Major Fred K. Dodge
Indian Agent
Sir,
Enclosed you will find two statements of certain matters that occured on the Humboldt River last Fall. One made by John Rondeaux, a Canadian, the other by Oliver Cromwell, an American citizen. Both these persons are now in this Valley and are esteemed reliable, and truthful men.
These statements involve matters of very serious interest to Emigrant parties entering Californian by this route, and also to your self as Indian Agent, and it is the wish of both Rondeaux and Cromwell that the subject should be brought to your attention.
They desire me to say that they are willing to make oath to the truth of their statements so however you may desire.
Very Respectfully your Obt. Servt
Chas. B. Lafitte
__________
STATEMENT OF JOHN RONDEAUX
Copy
Statement of John Rondeaux
In company with Peter Sandusky--one of our party--I got to the sink of the Humboldt about two o’clock on the ninth day of November 1858. We had pushed on leaving our wagon about one hour behind. When I got across the sink to Tyler’s, I met Alexander Chevain--the man who killed Fred Dickson that same evening. He (Chevain) said to me--you are a Frenchman are you not--to which I replied, “Yes, I am.”
Chevain then said “You and the other french boys keep out of the way for there is going to be a little quarrel here and the Emigrant party coming in will have to pay for it. When the Emigrants began to come in Tyler and his partner, Bennett sent for Buffalo Jim, and the Indians and after giving them all the Liquor they wanted, Supplied them with arms (guns, rifles and revolvers) and caps & powder. One of the Indians showed me what they had received, and I counted my self among other things, three dozen of balls. The chief told me that if things did not go on right, so soon as he received a signal from either Tyler or Bennett (which signal was to be in the raising of a hand above the head) that they would kill the first American or White Emigrant that came round or attempted to interfere with them in any way. When Tyler and Bennett discharged the Indians they gave them three sacks of flour in part pay for their services.
his
John (X) Rondeaux
mark
Attest
Charles B Lafitte
Territory of Utah
The affidavit of John Rondeaux who has signed his name to the foregoing statement and who is personally known to me made oath before me that the matters contained in the foregoing statement are true to the best of his knowledge information and belief.
Subscribed and sworn to before me
this 28th day of January AD 1859
F. Dodge
U.S. Indian Agent
__________
STATEMENT OF OLIVER CROMWELL
Copy
Statement of Oliver Cromwell
I am in the employ of the Over Land Mail Co. and was sent out last fall on or about the 25th of November with Ox teams loaded with provisions for the supply of the Stations on the Humboldt. Upon my arrival about the Sho-Sho-nee line I was asked by frequently by the Indians if that was Col. Forney, to which I replied--being under the impression that they asked if I was from Californy (California)--yes.
I then found out that Col. Forney had promised them Cattle, Flour, &c. and they thought my teams were those that he said he would send them, and that they were determined to have them. They followed me for several days and were becoming very unruly when through the interference of Jim Stevenson who understands and speaks their language, they were made to comprehend the state of the case and that I meant that I came from California, and not from Col Forney. If I had not fortunately met with Stevenson or some one able to make this explanation, I do not know what the consequences would have been, for they were very angry when they found out that Col Forney had not sent them any thing. They had commenced before I fell in with Stevenson to pick out the cattle they would slaughter first. I think it is exceedingly wrong to make these promises to the Indians on the Humboldt, and then not keep them. For it endangered the Emigrant parties coming over and the people along the whole line. I make this statement from my own personal observation and am quite satisfied that there will be more trouble among them if something be not done for them after promises to that effect have been made.
Oliver Cromwell
Attest--John F. Long
__________
LETTER FROM F. DODGE, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Copy
Office Indian Agent,
Carson Valley,
Feb 7th, 1859
Sir--
I enclose a copy of a letter and two Statements received from Charles B. Lafitte Esq. a resident of this Valley.
It confirms a sad state of affairs on the Humboldt River.
It shows the absolute necessity of the strong arm of the government, to “awe” the “brigands” of that River.
I am powerless--without money, and without law.
There is not a speck of law, from Camp Floyd west to the California line, a distance of nearly seven hundred miles, and from Oregon South to New Mexico, there is not even a justice of the Peace, where too, the most stringent statutes are required to “Curb” the lawless mongrel specimens of humanity, that infest--during the season of emigration--that portion of the Great Central Over Land Mail and Emigrant route, on the Humboldt River.
The monsters go there for no other purpose than to enrich themselves by plunder.
They are principals in murder, and recipients of robberies, the sad spectacles of which, have been chronicled from year to year, in the newspapers, but the true history and enormity of crime, is now beyond an earthly restitution, and must therefore ever remain with the perpetrators and their God.
According to one of the enclosed statements, serious consequences are apprehended from the Sho-Sho-Nees, of which yourself--by Cromwell’s statement--appears to be the cause.
A crisis may perhaps be at hand. Spring waits for no man. The opening of which Emigration commences; and I beg you Sir most attentively, to weigh the statements of John Rondeaux and Oliver Cromwell, and bear in mind, that the present state of affairs on this route, may jeopardize the safety of the mail; also, the lives of the emigrant. His wife and children may be in danger.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servt,
F. Dodge
Indian Agent.
Jacob Forney, Esq.
Supt Ind Affs,
Gt. Salt Lake City
Utah Territory
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO JAMES W. DENVER, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Utah Superintendency
Great Salt Lake City Feby 15 1859
Hon James W Denver
Commissionr Ind Affr
Sir
I respectfully transmit to you and Extract from the message of His Excellency Gov Cumming to the Utah Legislature in which he alludes to farming for Indians in this Territory. Also a copy of a communication from Ex Agent Hurt, on the same subject.
The Governors intelligence and extensive experience in Indian affairs and also his knowledge of the mode in which farming has been heretofore conducted among the Indians here, commends his sayings to the serious considerations of those concerned. I am familiar with the mode heretofore pursued and freely admit that the success has not been commensurate to the expenditures. In my opinion the failure is attributable to want of power to confine the Indians by treaty Stipulations on the Farms or Reservations. Secondly, improper management in conducting the Farms, there has been too much white labor employd. I am confident that the Indians can be made to work and that the System of farming among them can be greatly improved. I have made myself familiar with the condition of the Indians in this Territory by constant travelling and personal intercourse and am prepared to say, unhesitatingly, that the Indians cannot live without aid from some source; they have become impoverished by the introduction of a white population. The valley occupied and cultivated at present, were formerly their chief dependence for game. Most of the valleys susceptible of successful cultivation are already occupied by industrious farmers; and the game, roots &c, the Indians only salvation, has given place to a thriving population. The Indians, it seems, have heretofore received considerable aid from the settlers, but now the hand of charity of private individuals is witheld since the new order of things, and the Indians are sent to the Government for aid. I have given them as much substantial assistance in flour, meat and clothing, as circumstances would admit. The Indians, to keep from starving are reduced to all sorts of shifts; they must either starve or steal, unless Government feeds and clothes them. I speak from personal knowledge of all but those in the extreme southern portion of this Territory; and they are represented to me as very destitute. As yet, I have received no instructions from the Dept. relative to locating the Indians. The members of the last Legislative Assembly of this Territory memorialized Congress to make provisions for the permanent location of the Indians; and recommend a certain locality as very suitable; and say that buffalo, elk and other game exists there in abundance. This is a delusion; there has not been Buffalo in this Territory for many years and at this time there are very few Elk or any other kind of game.
If it is the design of the Government to locate the Indians in this Territory, on farms or Reservations, it should be done with as little delay as possible; in as much as the valleys are fast filling up. Even now it will be difficult to make eligable reservations within the boundaries of several Tribes.
The following Indian Farms are already in operation with the approbation of the Depart I believe.
1st Spanish Fork Farm. This Reservation is in Utah Valley, 62 miles south of this City, and contains near thirteen thousand acres bounded several miles on Utah Lake, and several by Spanish Fork Creek; three hundred acres has been cultivated; upon it, there is a good House, and a few other improvements. This farm was commenced by Ex Agent Hurt bout four years ago, with the approbation of Ex Superintendent B. Young, and intended for the Utah Tribe. Entirely too much money has been expended in the commencement and progress of this Farm. It is now managed by an experienced farmer.
2d Salt Creek Farm, in San Pete County, one hundred and fifty miles South West from this City, and forty miles south of the Southern California Road. This was also commenced by Ex Agent Hurt, about four years ago. It is likewise within the boundary of country claimed by the Utah Tribe and exclusively intended for a small band of that Tribe. On it, are two small houses and some other improvements, there are about 2 hundred acres under cultivation. These two farms and the Indians they are intended for, have been a source of exceeding great annoyance and perplexity to me. I did not interfere with the mode in which they were conducted, until it was quite evident that very little good could result from them, either to the Indians or Government. The policy adopted for the future management of these farms, it is believed, will be beneficial to the Indians and much less expensive to the Government. I have a plain understanding with the Indians, that they must absolutely do all the work in future. Heretofore, no pains have been taken to make the Indians labor. They were permitted to roam about the Country, stealing, begging &c and only camped around the farms when the crops were ripening, to carry it away and destroy it. It is to be regretted that so little effort has been made towards civilizing any of the Utah Tribe, even the incipient steps have not been taken. Not an Indian Cabin or lodge is on or adjacent to the Spanish Fork Farm, which is certainly a strange spectacle for an Indian Reservation, four years underway, with so large an expenditure.
3rd Corn Creek Farm, fifteen miles south of Fillmore City, in Millard County. It was, I believe, commenced about the same time as the two already mentioned. This farm is eligibly locate on land claimed by the Pah-Vante Tribe, numbering between two and three hundred. I took entire control of this farm, soon after my arrival in this city and instituted a policy for its management, in my opinion, more advantageous towards improving the condition of the Indians and much more economical. My anticipaitons have been more than realized though this Tribe underwent the same confusion as other Tribes and Bands, by the political entanglements so long in existance. Indeed this Tribe were more seriously poisoned than any I have yet met. Since this farm has been under my immediate supervision (July last) I have hired but one white man and only for one month during harvest. The Indians harvested Eighty acres of wheat, and sowd sixty or seventy acres in wheat last fall, and the whole Tribe are living on the Farm. The most of the families are living this winter in comfortable “Wick y ups,” several in Cabins, all constructed by themselves, aided by the farming Agent, through my special directions given last fall. No white labor will be needed on this farm in future. I have two young Indians of this Tribe in Fillmore City, learning the Blacksmith and Carpenter trades.
There is scarcely a doubt in my mind, but that every Reservation in this Territory, with proper management, can be made self sustaining.
The other Tribes and Bands which I have seen, not including those in Carson Valley, and in the southern portion of the Territory, could be concentrated on four Reservations at or near the following places:
1st Snake Tribe, under complete control of Chief Wash a Kee. This Tribe numbers about 1200, and claim Green River Country, and usually live there; but yearly, visit Nebraska to hunt Buffalo. A Bannock tribe, numbering about 500, claim a home in this Territory; they have always been closely identified with Wash a kee’s Tribe, and with his permission, go and live where his Tribe go and live. All these could be concentrated in Henry’s Fork Valley, and a few very small valleys adjacent, about 40 miles south of Fort Bridger. The valley is about forty miles long, east and west, and four to eight wide, with an altitude to raise all kinds of grain. This is really all that Chief Wash a kee asks, in the boundary of the country claimed by his people.
2nd Sho Sho nees (also Snakes) These are at present divided into several Bands, but they all recognise “Little Soldier” as principal chief. These are scattered over and claim the country from this city, north to the Oregon Line and west to the Goose Creek Mountains; including Ogden, Cash, Malad, Weber and Bear River Vallies, and Salt Lake Valley. These number about (1500) fifteen hundred, and could all be concentrated on one Reservation. A large portion of the land claimed by these Indians and susceptible of cultivation, is already occupied by and industrious population.
A Reservation might be made for these Indians in Cache Valley. There is no other point claimed by this Tribe in an altitude to raise grain, without buying improvements or resorting to Artesian Wells for irrigation.
3rd Sho Sho nee Bands in and adjacent to the Humboldt Valley. There are four Bands of these and number about six to eight hundred. There are no settlements in the Country over which these bands roam. The northern California Road passes through their country. Different grains have been raised at several points in the Humboldt and several small valleys claimed by these Indians. For several reasons I would deem it inexpedient to make a Reservation in the Humboldt Valley for these Indians; its adjacency to the Oregon Bannocks and the destitution of timber throughout the entire valley. Ruby Valley, probably about thirty to fifty miles south of Humboldt and two hundred and fifty to three hundred miles west of this City, has plenty of water and timber. It is about ninety miles long, east and west, and six to ten miles wide. There are as yet no settlements there, but several settlers will go there this spring. All the Humboldt Sho Sho nee’s could be concentrated on a Reservation in Ruby Valley without difficulty.
4th Go sha Utes. These Indians lost their chief several years ago, and have not chosen one since. They are now divided into small Bands. One of these, numbering 55, live at Grantsville, Tooele County; forty miles west of this City. The remainder, numbering probably about two hundred, are scattered over the country for a scope of one hundred miles extending to the Desert. These roving bands are much dreaded by the Whites in Tooele and Rush Valleys. These valleys were their former homes and their chief dependence for game, before the white settlers drove them out and destroyed their game. These Indians (excepting those at Grantsville) live principally by stealing. Persons, who seem most familiar with their country, inform me that they have no game, and are really very destitute. Necessity compells them to steal to obtain food, and every now and then they kill a white man. They are consequently much dreaded by the near settlers. They have heretofore baffled the skill of the Territorial Volunteers. I made considerable effort Last summer and fall to see and have a talk with these seeming Outlaws, but did not succeed. Major Chorpening and party met these Indians last December when exploring for a new mail road to California. Some of their principal men came to visit me at the request of major Chorpening. I was unfortunately from home. Governor Cumming saw and had a talk with them however. All the Go Sha Utes might be located on a Reservation in Deep Creek or Scull Valley. In my opinion most of the Tribes and Bands would be well contented if placed on eligible Reservations and those judiciously conducted.
I have been frequently importuned by the most intelligent chiefs to be placed in a condition to raise their own eatables.
The citizens of this Territory have for years conveyed to the minds of the Indians the impression that it was the intention sooner or later to provide them with suitable Reservations and farming appliances. The nonfulfilment of these promises is one of the causes of Indian depredations.
Each of the proposed Reservations alluded to in this communication could be put in successful operation with an expenditure of fifteen hundred dollars, for cattle and farming appliances.
Will you do me the kindness to furnish me with your views on the subject of Indians Reservations at your earliest convenience.
I remain Very Respectfully,
Your Obt Servant,
J. Forney
Supt. Ind. Affrs.
__________
LETTER FROM F. DODGE, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT, TO COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Office Indian Agent
Carson Valley U.T.
Feb 18th 1859
Sir,
The non arrival of answers to my letters to Supt Forney, and the present exigency of affairs pertaining to this agency compels me to deviate once from your instructions.
By addressing the Department directly via California, instead of through Supt. Forney via Salt Lake.
I have addressed the latter on several occasions without avail, (hence this letter to you) for the funds mentioned in his instructions to me dated Oct. 6th & 7th, 1858. A copy of which is herewith enclosed.
The same has been carried out, as the also enclosed copy of my report to him dated Jany 4th 1859 will show, under too, the most embarrassing and humiliating circumstances. I had to purchase everything from strangers on a credit last November, and up to this date he had not enabled me to pay them.
I therefore respectfully beg the Hon. Commissioner to advise Supt. Forney, to forward funds, and enable me to obtain my vouchers, I can then make out my returns for the qr. ending 31st Decr. 1858, which according to the requirements of your Department should have been done long ago.
I cannot reconcile my mind to the fact that the Department is aware of the sad condition of Indian affairs in the western part of this Territory. The enclosed copies of Mr. Laffittes letter and accompanying statements to me, will however, afford a fair speciman, also my letter of the 7th inst. enclosing the same to Supt. Forney will supply you with a few facts.
I also enclose a copy of a letter written by Supt. Forney Dated Salt Lake City Aug. 2nd 1858 empowering a man by the name of Chapman (a stage driver) with the authority of an Indian Agent, to the great detriment of the public good, in issuing powder and Lead to hostile Indians in the very locality too, where the mail was robbed of its animals on the 20th of the same month, and immediately after the issueing of the powder and Lead.
This man was also authorized to talk to the Indians and “all he told them was right.”
In this I beg to differ, inasmuch as he (unfortunately for the good of the service) told them all along this great line of travel--six weeks preceeding my arrival here, that their Agent was coming with large loads of goods for them.
When to the contrary, on my arrival in the Territory, I was sent to establish myself somewhere in this vicinity without goods and without a dollar. This is one of the most important “Agencies” on the continent, and requires the Agent to be Active and Vigilant, with the very eyes of an “Argus” to watch this mail and Emigrant route, it being the great harbinger of “Fiends” whose sole purpose is to enrich themselves by plunder, and charge the same to the Indians.
Procrastination and broken promises will certainly not do for the Indians on the Humboldt River.
In fact, ten years experience on the frontiers has taught me that it is the most disastrous course that can be pursued towards Indians of any locality.
I do not apprehend any serious difficulties from the “Sho-sho-nees,” until emigration commences, and not even then, if judicious and timely action be taken, to that end. I shall take time by the forelock, and leave for the Head of the Humboldt immediately and if necessary to Salt Lake, and make such arrangements as circumstances will permit, for the fulfillment of those misleading and dangerous promises.
I am Sir, with great respect,
Your Obt. Servt.
F. Dodge
Indian Agent
Hon. Commissioner
Of Indian Affairs
Washington City,
D.C.
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO R. JARVIS, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT
Instructions
Superintendents Office, Utah.
Great Salt Lake City March 5. 1859
R.B. Jarvis Esqr
Sir
The public interest requires that measures be taken to restrain the movements and doings of the Gosha Ute and Humboldt Sho Sho Nee Indians. I respectfully request you to visit the above named Indians without delay at the points and for the purposed I shall presently state. You will remain in the country claimed by those Indians and control them until further advised.
The Gosha Ute Indians number about 250. A Band numbering 45 to55 have been for several years located at Grantsville and are harmless and peaceable. The balance, about 200 are at present in Deep Creek Valley (called “Iven Pah” by the Indians) These have not had a principal Chief for several years and are divided into several small Bands. They formerly before being driven out by the whites, occupied Toolele, Rush and Scull Vallies, where was their chief dependence for game.
They are now confined to the country of about 60 miles in extent between Scull Valley and a Desert East of Ruby Valley in which is Dry Creek Valley 150 miles from this City, the only point in an altitude susceptible of agriculture.
Humboldt Sho Sho Nees--These are a fraction of the Snake Nation, but are isolated and not subject to the control of any principal chief. I saw most of these Indians last fall in the Humboldt Valley. They are divided into four bands and number 8 to 1200, each band having several chiefs.
The country claimed by them is from the Goose Creek mountains, East, including Goose Creek Valley, to 50 miles west of Stoney Point in the Humboldt Valley. And form the Oregon Line, North, to some distance south of Ruby Valley.
The greater portion of these Indians are at present in Ruby valley. The Road on which is carried the over-land Mail from the Missouri River to California passes adjacent to Deep Creek Valley and through Ruby Valley, and this new Road must undoubtedly attract the over land travel. I am so familiar with the conduct and character of these Indians and know enough of the country claimed by them that their destitution is not a subject of surprise to me.
From recent information about the above named Indians I have concluded, after mature deliberation, to commence a Farm and make a Reservation for each of the above named Bands of Indians; in Deep Creek Valley for the Gosha Utes and in Ruby Valley for the Humboldt Sho Sho Nees. It is the intention to concentrate all these Indians upon these contemplated Farms.
The public interest generally, demands that you should proceed to the points above designated, with as little delay as circumstances will admit.
You will proceed, without delay, to Deep Creek Valley (about 150 miles west of this city) called by the Indians Iven pah where you will meet about 200 Gosha Utes, to whom you will explain the nature and intention of your visit.
Examine carefully Deep Creek Valley. Mr. Sevier (of whom I will speak in another paper) is familiar with this valley and surrounding country. He will be with you, and can no doubt render much assistance. After having examined the valley and streams, Select a suitable point, with reference to water and timber, for a farm and Reservation for the Gosha Ute Indians. This valley is small and only about 250 Indians; it is consequently not necessary to include a very large tract for farming purposes. The erection of a few Cabins immediately for the Chiefs &c might prove a salutary step. After making the necessary explorations and selecting a suitable spot for the farm, no time should be lost in commencing to break up the ground.
After spending a few days in Deep Creek Valley for the above purpose, you will proceed without delay to Ruby Valley, about 100 miles west of Deep Creek Valley. There you will find from 5 to 700 Indians, known as Humboldt Sho Sho Nees.
Mr. Egan is familiar with this valley and may render much assistance in selecting and eligible location for a Farm and Reservation. These Sho Sho Nees number from 8 to 1200 and will therefore require more tillable land than the Gosha Utes. So soon as you have succeeded in selecting a suitable locality for a farm, no time should be lost in commencing active operations.
You will explain to the Indians you are to visit the purpose of your visit. Explain also the peaceable relations now existing between the Inhabitants of this Territory and the United States Government, that they (the Indians) must not molest the person or property of whites, whether passing through or settling in country claimed by them. Explain plainly to them the intention of these farms. I am especially anxious that these and all other Indians who have farms opened for them must work. Impress this firmly upon their minds. I will pay for no white labor on these farms after they are underway. The idea of hiring white men, as heretofore, to raise grain for the Indians and they lying about is to me abominable and will not be tolerated any longer. A few white men may be necessary on each farm for one or two months.
The strictest economy must be observed.
I will in a day or two give you further instructions. I have to request that you will frequently keep me advised of your movements.
Very Respectfully
Your obedient Servant,
J. Forney
Supt Indn Affr
Utah
__________
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO J.W. DENVER, COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Superintendents Office, Utah.
Great Salt Lake City March 9 1859.
Hon James W. Denver
Sir
Inclosed are two letters from Mr. Howard Egan. Letter A I received several weeks since; Letter B was handed to me by Agent Jarvis several days ago. These, as also letter C and D I submit for your consideration.
I have seriously deliberated upon this subject and after full consultation with His Excellency Governor Cumming, I have determined, with his entire acquiesence, to commence without delay, a farm for the Indians in Question. The Indians claiming Deep Creek and Ruby Valley and the surrounding Country are the Gosha Utes, to who I have made mention in several letters to the Depart and the Humboldt Sho Sho Nees of whom I gave an account last fall, after my return from the Humboldt.
In my communication of the 15 Ult relative to Reservation and the concentration of Indians, I again alluded to the character and situation of the above named Bands. I have not been unmindful of their condition; their destitution has been know to me for months as also the fact, that the country over which they roam and claim, cannot by any possibility of shifting keep them from starving. I have relieved as many of them with flour and meat as I could get at and to a limited extent have relieved their nakedness.
I purpose commencing a farm for the Gosha Utes in Deep Creek Valley 150 miles west of this City, and adjacent to the new Mail Route (of which I will speak hereafter) which is the only valley unoccupied by white, susceptible of agriculture, in the country claimed by them.
The valley is small, being only 15 by 4 to 8 miles in extent, and in it, a White Settlement is in progress of being made. These Gosha Utes to the number of about 200 (except the Band at Grants Ville) are now wintering in that Valley.
Ruby Valley as already indicated in another communication, is the most eligible location for the Humboldt Shoshonees. This valley or the point where we intend commencing a farm is 250 miles from this City. There are now 6 to 800 of these Indians in Ruby Valley, and they call all without difficulty be collected there. This valley has an abundance of grass, water and timber & there are as yet no White Settlements in it, but several are in progress of commencement this Spring.
The Indians for whose benefit these Farms are intended, are unquestionably very destitute, none can be more so anywhere. Necessity has compelled them to Steal, but only such things however as satisfy hunger; principally horses and mules; which they prefer to any other kind of meat. They prefer a poor mule to a fat ox.
I sincerely hope that my policy to ameliorate the condition of these Indians (and without doubt afford protection to the U.S. Mail Employees and Stock) will meet the approbation of the Department. It is almost certain, this policy will be speedily followed with the occupation of a large extent of country by active and industrious farmers which has been heretofore a dread to white men.
The strictest economy will be observed in the commencement and progress of these farms. It is my full determination to have no white labor on these farms excepting two men on each farm for several months. No expensive buildings will be put up. In short the Indians must work or be treated like other persons that refuse to labor providing I am sustained in such a policy. I may feel over sanguine, but I feel confident that Indians can be got to work.
The Cattle and farming implements necessary to put these Farms under full operation will not exceed ($3500) thirty five hundred dollars.
The California Mail from this City, ceased, about the 1st December to be carried on the Goose Creek and Humboldt Road and has since ad will undoubtedly continue to be carried on a New Road directly West from this City, south of the Old Road, which it unites near the Sink of the Humboldt. This new and much improved route is the result of extensive explorations by Mr. Howard Egan and Major Chorpenning. It shortens the distance at least 250 miles between this city and Carson Valley, and they are confident it can be still more improved.
It is quite obvious that this new road much attract the principal travel, posessing Special advantage over the old road. As in addition to Water and Grass there is along the new route plenty of timber with no interruption at any time by Snows, also avoiding several large and troublesome Streams and high hills.
I Remain
Respectfully, Your obt Servant,
J. Forney
To Hon James W Denver
Commsr Indn Affr
Washington D.C.
LETTER A
LETTER FROM HOWARD EGAN, ROUTE AGENT WEST OF GREAT SALT LAKE CITY, TO J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Great Salt Lake City
February 19, 1859
J. Forney, Superintendent,
Sir
During my stay in your City, I thought I would address you a few lines, relative to my intercourse with the Indians, on the Mail Route west of this City.
Years of experience has led me to believe, that the depredations committed by the Indians at Deep Creek, and at Ruby Valley, arise simply from the fact, that no provision of any kind, is made to meet the ever recurring want of the Indian, viz food and raiment. Now Sir, a life of predatory warfare on persons and property is the result; and no remidy has as yet been proposed. Yet Sir, I conceive the only effectual and reliable way to eradicate the evil, is a farm, under proper supervision, and such careful and prudent oversight, as you may deem fit and just.
I have heard it hinted that Soldiers are destined for the scene of evils. But Sir, I am sanguine, that the establishment of Soldiers would not remove the evils which I have encountered, outside of the Fort or Post so established. In the immediate vicinity, protection would be afforded, but beyond that, the same evils would still exist. I repeat therefore, a farm--a concentration of Indians to some one or more points is the only effectual cure for the evils of which I complain, and which will ever recur so long as the Indians remain Scattered far and wide. I deem this worthy of your most serious consideration, and ask, as the Mail Party are serious sufferers, and as economy in all the U S Departts is the great desideratum, can it not be effected by the mode proposed.
Humanity dictates that this course would be preferable, to say nothing of expense. Shall I then hope to see the evil removed, the Indians concentrated, and the mails protected and the U. S. pocket saved.
Sir; I am, in behalf of the Mail Contractor
Your obedient Servant
Howard Egan
Route Agent west of GSL City
LETTER B
LETTER FROM HOWARD EGAN, MAIL ROUTE AGENT, TO R.B. JARVIS, UTAH TERRITORIAL INDIAN AGENT
(copy)
Great Salt Lake City
March 7. 1859
R.B. Jarvis Esqr
Dear Sir
On the 19th February 1859 I addressed Dr Forney a note on the condition of the Indians on the Western Mail Route, and he has informed me that he has appointed yourself, agreably to such suggestions named in the note, to locate said Indians &c.
Since my note so addressed I have received by last mail an account of the Slaying of 8 Cattle and 2 mules by them from pure necessity and to avoid death by Starvation. And from present indications I see no chance to preserve our mules from a similar fate; unless some immediate steps are taken we shall be seriously crippled in our operations if we are again to loose as before 8 Cattle and 2 mules.
Now Sir, the urgency of the case must be apparent that an early and energetic effort must be made immediately.
You will please address me a note, addressed Salt Lake and California Mail Company Office this City at your very earliest convinience and thereby oblige
Very Respectfully
(signed) Howard Egan
[California Mail Route] Agent,
LETTER C
LETTER FROM J. FORNEY, UTAH TERRITORIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, TO HOWARD EGAN, ROUTE AGENT
(Copy)
Superintendents Office, Utah
Great Salt L