[From the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, Series I, vol. 50, Parts 1 and 2]

 

US ARMY OPERATIONS IN NEVADA AND UTAH TERRITORIES 1863 (Apr-Jun)

 

[OR I-50-2, pp. 378-379]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE PACIFIC,

San Francisco, Cal., April 1, 1863.

Commanding Officer Camp Babbitt,

            Near Visalia, Cal.:

            Sir: The department commander directs that you will with the greatest possible dispatch send Captain McLaughlin's company to Owen's Lake to operate against the Indians depredating in that quarter. The captain, being the senior officer, will assume command of all troops, whether volunteer or militia, in that and the adjacent valleys. Should you have any surplus rifled arms the captain will take not to exceed thirty, with a fair proportion of ammunition. Captain Brown's company from Churchill has been directed to repair to Owen's Lake and co-operate with the forces there and to be sent.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, April 2, 1863.

His Excellency Leland Stanford,

            Governor of the State of California, Sacramento, Cal.:

            Governor: I have this morning received a communication from Captain Selfridge, commandant of the navy-yard at Mare Island, dated 31st ultimo. The captain is fully satisfied that a military organization is forming at Napa for the purpose of making war against the United States. Captain Selfridge has already withdrawn the steamer Saginaw from the harbor of San Francisco to Mare Island and says that unless this organization is broken up he will be obliged to withdraw the Cyane for the defense of the yard. It is submitted to Your Excellency the propriety of calling together the organized militia company of Napa and Solano Counties to quell this threatened insurrection. I have no troops to send there at this time. I have been re-enforcing Benicia and the arsenal. Those places must be held secure. Major McGarry, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, is at Napa. He is well acquainted with that country and I shall take pleasure in placing him at the disposal of Tour Excellency if his services may be required in organizing the militia.

            Very respectfully, Your Excellency's obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT.

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

Special Orders,            )                                               Hdqrs. Department of the Pacific,

No. 87.                        )                                               San Francisco, Cal., April 2, 1863.

            1. Special Orders, No. 84, assigning Maj. Edward McGarry, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, to the command of troops at and in the vicinity of Camp Ruby, is revoked. Major McGarry will await further orders in this city.

            2. Maj. Edward McGarry, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, will proceed to Sacramento, Cal., and report in person to Brigadier-General Wright, commanding department.

* * * * * * *

            By order of Brigadier-General Wright:

RICHD. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal, April 2, 1863.

His Excellency O. Clemens,

            Governor of Nevada Territory, Carson City, Nev.:

            Sir : I have been authorized by the War Department to raise volunteer companies in Nevada Territory for the purpose of moving east on the Overland Mail Route in the direction of Great Salt Lake City. If it is possible to raise three or four companies in the Territory for this service, I have to request Your Excellency may be pleased to have them organized. I should be glad to get two companies of cavalry and two of infantry; the mounted troops to furnish their own horses and equipments. Arms, ammunition, &c., will be furnished by the United States. Should Your Excellency consider it probable that this volunteer force can be raised, even one company will be accepted. I will send you a plan of organization and an officer with the necessary instructions for mustering them into the service.

            With great respect, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., April 2, 1863.

Lieut. W. L. USTICK,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Utah:

            LIEUTENANT : On my arrival here I found that there was a large band of Indians encamped at the station who had been there a period of some two months. I was informed by Captain May that they were at feud with the Indians who are now infesting the road; that they claimed protection and professed friendship, and so far as my information extends have done nothing to militate against their professions. I have telegraphed to-day to the general commanding the district in relation to sending me an interpreter, whom, under the present state of affairs, I cannot well do without. The only one here who can talk with them is a man by the name of Hawes, whose character is such that I cannot place any dependence on him. I find, by traveling over the line, that a great deal of unnecessary excitement is caused by the drivers themselves, who imagine danger when there is none. I have disposed of every man who can possibly be spared from this post in such a manner along the road that I apprehend no further trouble, and shall continue to use every means in my power to keep the road open and safe. I sent instructions to Lieutenant Quinn to stop two or three days in the vicinity of Deep Creek and Spring Valley (as I learned there that there was a band of Indians at Pleasant Valley, distant about twenty-five or thirty miles from the latter place) and reconnoiter the ground thereabouts and see what truth there was in the report. I have information from a very good source that ammunition has been sold to Indians along the road this winter past. As soon as I feel able to investigate the matter thoroughly I will report. I have heard nothing yet from Captain Smith, and probably will not until he arrives, as I have no means of communication in that direction. Since I commenced writing this have received a dispatch from Mr. Cook, dated "Middle Gate, April 2, 5 p. m.," which states that everything west is quiet. Captain May left to-day for California, having turned over all company property to Lieutenant Allen.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third Infantry California Volunteers, Comdg. Post.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 380]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., April 3, 1863.

Capt. John Kellogg,

            Commissary of Subsistence, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Sir: I am instructed to inform you, in reply to your letter of the 1^st instant, that it is the design of the department commander to increase the force at Salt Lake to l,500 men. The general desires you to have stores for the above-named number placed at the depot in that district.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

_________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 201-203]

APRIL 2-6, 1863.—Expedition from Camp Douglas to the Spanish Fork, Utah Ter., with action (4th) at the Spanish Fork Cañon.

Report of Capt. George F. Price, Second California Cavalry, commanding expedition.

Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., April 6, 1863.

            Lieutenant : I have the honor to report that pursuant to instruction received from Brigadier-General Connor, commanding District of Utah, I left this camp at 1 a. m. of the 2nd instant with Lieutenant Conrad and fifty-one men of Company M, Second Cavalry California Volunteers; crossed the Jordan River seven miles south of Great Salt Lake City, and moved up the west side of the river, traveling until 8.30 a. m., when I arrived in Cedar Valley, thirty miles south of the camp. Examined the valley thoroughly without discovering any fresh Indian signs; arrived at Cedar Fort, in upper western portion of the valley, at 11.15 a. m., where Lieutenant Ethier with twenty-six men of Company A, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, reported to me for duty per verbal order of general commanding the district. With this force proceeded to and arrived at Fort Crittenden at 12:15 p. m.; distance traveled, forty-five miles; horses and men greatly fatigued. On the following morning left Crittenden. Learning that the band of Indians with whom Lieutenant Ethier had a skirmish near Cedar Fort on the afternoon of the 1st instant had moved in a southeasterly direction from Cedar Valley, I determined to pursue them. Resuming the march, the command traveled to the head of Cedar Valley; from thence crossed into Utah Valley, and arrived at the southeastern extremity of Lake Utah at 10.30 a. m. ; from thence proceeded to Goshen, the most southern settlement of the valley, where I arrived at 2 p. m. ; compelled to halt on account of forage; several of the horses almost unserviceable. The surrounding country was thoroughly examined without discovering any Indian sign; direct distance traveled, twenty-six miles. At sunset I sent Sergeant Gordon with four men well armed on a scout into Juab Valley. They traveled twenty miles south of Goshen, making a night ride of forty miles, returning to camp at 4 a. m. of the 4th instant without making any discoveries further than the fact that a body of Indians were encamped on Salt Creek, still farther to the south of his ride some forty miles. At 6 a. m. of the same day, being satisfied that I was south and west of the Indians, started across the valley searching the hills and bottoms surrounding Utah Lake. Arrived at the town of Spanish Fork at 3 p. m., being everywhere assured that no Indians had been seen for ten days. I had not been encamped three hours when two Indians were discovered on the point of the hill, we on the southeast portion of the town. A scouting party was immediately sent out, who soon returned with intelligence that the Indians already mentioned had entered Spanish Fork Cañon. At this time the sun was scarcely an hour high, but I did not feel like losing even this small chance if there were any Indians in the cañon. "Boots and saddles" and "to horse" were immediately sounded, taking the men away from supper, and in less than five minutes such was the eagerness of the men that the entire detachment, excepting the guard (six), was in the saddle and en route for the cañon, four miles from the camp. Arriving there I found the Indians in considerable force, numbering in sight between forty and fifty, being posted on both sides of the cañon, a large stream of water (Spanish Fork) separating us from the south side. Lieutenant Conrad with fifteen men was ordered to make movement to the right and gain the south side of the canon. Immediately after Lieutenant Ethier with twenty-five men was ordered to move to the left and gain the north bank of the canon, while the center, under my own command, moved directly to the front, and as the center approached the mouth of the cañon within rifle-shot the Indians opened a brisk fire upon us, rather annoying, but without accomplishing any injury. The flanking parties having gained their position, a forward movement was made at the same moment. The Indians retreated before us, until finally they broke into a run under fire up the cañon, the detachment following them eagerly, but well under restraint. The Indians were driven until they reached a point in the cañon where it would have been extreme folly and a useless sacrifice of life for us to follow. It being by this time quite dark, and not having yet discovered the strength of the enemy (the cañon being a very bad one—in fact, I have rarely seen a better one for a fight), the assembly was sounded and the detachments commenced returning to camp, being then about three-quarters of a mile up the canon. During the march back, under cover of the night, the Indians hovered on our rear, discharging their pieces at us. A lively skirmish then ensued, and various expedients were resorted to in order to trap the Indians, but without avail. During this skirmish the horses were never out of a walk unless when they were dashing back upon the enemy. It is impossible for me to state the number of Indians killed or wounded during this brief action and subsequently driving them up the cañon. It is known positively, however, that 1 Indian and 1 pony were killed, and several acted as though they were wounded. The Indians fired the first shot. The flank movements made by Lieutenants Conrad and Ethier were finely executed, and reflect credit upon these young officers, while the men behaved with their usual gallantry. Pickets were thrown out during the night, but without any result further than knowing that the Indians did not leave the cañon.

            On the following morning (5th) a scouting party was sent in advance of the detachments without discovering any Indians. Not desiring to be caught in a trap, I ordered another flanking movement as on the evening previous, and then proceeded up the cañon until we arrived at the point gained on the previous evening without discovering any signs. Then with a portion of the command moved up the cañon three miles from that point, it growing worse and more dangerous in its character. Caught an Indian and killed him. Found several signs which satisfied me that the enemy was in full retreat through the cañon, running for San Pete Valley. Shortly after killing the Indian saw fires on the highest point on the north side entirely beyond our reach. They fired a few random shots at us. As the cañon is twenty-five miles long, and gradually closes in until very narrow, presenting on each side an almost impassable barrier of rocks, it was deemed proper to give up the pursuit, as it could result in no good and might cost life. Added to this the horses were severely jaded and the men about out of rations. The appearance of this cañon as seen by daylight fully confirms the opinion formed of it the evening before. Having offered them battle twice and driven them twice, it was useless to attempt more. The assembly was sounded, and we left the cañon without molestation and proceeded to Provo, where we camped. Citizens after the skirmish said there were 200 of the enemy, but I don't credit the story, for we offered battle with only thirty men and gave every chance, so that if there had been that number they would certainly have accepted. It is doubtful whether the band will return into Utah Valley for some time to come. At 2 a. m. of the 6th instant left Provo and returned to camp at 3 p. m. same day, reporting to Captain Black, commanding post. The direct distance traveled, exclusive of scouts, &c., was 165 miles, an average of thirty-three miles each day. Horses and men are much fatigued. My officers and men conducted themselves fully in keeping with previous reputation.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. F. PRICE,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Vols., Comdg. Expedition.

Lieut. T. S. HARRIS,

            Adjutant Second Cavalry California Volunteers.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 384]

To the Citizens of the Pacific Coast:

            You are far removed from the scenes of war and desolation; a war which has drenched in blood the fairest portion of our beloved country; a war to preserve our Union, and our free institutions against the assaults of traitors—traitors to their God and traitors to their country; who, disregarding the example and precepts of the great Washington, seek to destroy our very existence as a nation. During the war which has been raging for the last two years in the Eastern States you have enjoyed all the blessings of peace and prosperity within your borders. No family hearth has been made desolate. The wailings of the widow and orphan are rarely heard in this favored land. So far you have been exempt from the scourge of war. Are you prepared, then, to sacrifice all these blessings, to prove recreant to yourselves, to the nation, and to the high and holy trust transmitted to you by the founders of our Republic? No. Already I hear the welkin ring with shouts of acclamation: "The Union shall be preserved." Although the great mass of the people on the Pacific Coast are eminently patriotic and devoted to the Union, yet, fellow- citizens, we must not disguise the fact that we have traitors in our midst who are doing all in their power to involve this country in the horrors of civil war. To all such persons, I say, pause, and reflect well before plunging into the yawning abyss of treason ; an indignant people will rise in their majesty, and swift retributive justice will be your certain doom.

            Done at the headquarters of the Department of the Pacific this 7^th day of April, 1863.

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 385]

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., April 8, 1863.

Lieut. W. L. Ustick,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Utah:

            Lieutenant: I have the honor to inform the general commanding that Lieutenant Quinn, with his detachment, arrived this noon, having seen no Indians on his route, although he left the road in several places and scoured the country for a distance of twenty to thirty miles. As soon as his horses are rested I shall send him in another direction. I am very much in need of a blacksmith, as there is none at the post, and some ten or twelve of the cavalry horses need shoeing very badly, and it is impossible to procure one in this vicinity. Inclosed I send a copy of Special Orders, No. 87, Department of the Pacific, received this day.[1]

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third Infantry California Volunteers, Commanding Post.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 386]

Camp Babbitt, Near Visalia, Cal., April 8, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum,

            Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the Pacific, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Sir : I have the honor herewith to forward a petition from citizens of Keysville and vicinity asking military protection from Indian depredations. Captain McLaughlin will leave this camp on the arrival of the detachment of Company E, which will accompany him to join their company at Owen's Valley. They are expected to arrive this evening, and will leave on Saturday or Sunday morning, passing by the way of Keysville through Kern River Valley. The captain will halt a few days in the upper end of the valley, where the difficulties are said to exist, and investigate the matter, and if the position of the Indians should be found as favorable as represented, if deemed advisable will give them battle. The captain will have about forty men, with arms to arm twenty more. This, with the number of citizens that will join him from Keysville, will give him a force sufficient to handle any number of Indians that he will be likely to meet at that place. This camp will be left with a small force, which, will make it inexpedient to send a detachment a great distance. If it is necessary to keep troops at this camp, the number after Captain McLaughlin's departure is quite small enough without further decimation. An infantry company could be used to good advantage at this post. It would give the cavalry an opportunity of scouting through the country, preventing, breaking up, or inquiring into the cause and object of the organization of those armed parties that are gathering in the southern part of this county, and, we have reason to believe, have committed several robberies in the vicinity of White River and Kern Lake. There is no doubt of an organized movement among the disloyal people of this part of the State, for what purpose I am unable to find out, I have information of thirty- seven of them being together near Kern Lake, with quite a number of Government horses with them, which would be sufficient excuse for the military to take the matter in hand. I last heard of these men at or near Fort Tejon, and from a letter intercepted here they seem to be moving south toward Fort Yuma. Had I sufficient force I should send out in the direction of these parties and scour that part of the country and ascertain the meaning and intentions of those armed bodies of men, and recover, if possible, the Government property. If there is any part of this State that should be patrolled, it is the southern tier of counties, for there is no county in the State that offers such facilities for the organization of lawless bands of thieves and outlaws, and there is no country on earth that can furnish more and better material, according to its inhabitants, than this tier of counties can for purposes of that kind. This would be a very good field for Company F to operate in if it could be spared from Camp Union.

            I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. JONES,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Camp Babbitt, near Visalia, Cal.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 388]

Territory of Nevada, Executive Department,

Carson City, April 9, 1863.

Brig. Gen. G. Wright, U. S. Army,

            Commanding Department of the Pacific, San Francisco :

            General : Your letter of the 2d instant is received. I think it probable from one to four companies can be raised in this Territory for the service you mention, and, if possible so to do, it will afford me pleasure to have them organized. If consistent with your arrangements I think the raising of mounted troops in this Territory would be attended with more success if the Government would furnish the horses and equipments, as well as arms, ammunition, &c., as horses of a suitable quality here seem to be scarce, and the prevailing prices, I am told, are at least double those of California. Persons having the means of buying horses and equipments are likely to find the inducement for investing in our mines so much greater as to prevent them from volunteering in the military service. My impression is if this difficulty were obviated mounted troops would be more easily raised than infantry, and my own convictions are that the former would prove more effective for the particular service they are designed than the latter, I think there is no doubt that one or two companies of infantry at least can be raised, and if horses and equipments are furnished, as hereinbefore suggested, it may be the entire four companies, and should you send me, as you propose, "a plan of organization, and an officer with the necessary instructions for mustering them into the service," I will cheerfully render all the aid in my power. I observe from the public prints that enemies of the Government are apparently plotting to bring on civil war in California, and I have heard a suspicion expressed of similar designs in this Territory, and as entire security is not by every one felt in the lasting peacefulness of our Indian neighbors, I should be pleased to have your advice as to the propriety and best forms and extent of measures of preparation, and as to what my reliance should be placed upon in case of any military emergency.

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

ORION CLEMENS,

Acting Governor of Nevada Territory.

__________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 204-208]

APRIL 11-20, 1863.—Expedition from Camp Douglas to the Spanish Fork Cañon, Utah Ter., with skirmish (12th) at Pleasant Grove, and action (15th) at Spanish Fork Cañon.

Report of Col. George S. Evans, Second California Cavalry, commanding expedition.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE PACIFIC,

San Francisco, May 4, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General: I have the honor to transmit herewith the report of Col. George S. Evans, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, of an expedition against Indians at Spanish Fork, Utah Ter. This adds another to the highly commendatory and successful expeditions which have been sent out from Camp Douglas within the present year. I beg leave to ask your attention to the statements of Colonel Evans in relation to the conduct of the Mormons. It was only a continuation of their perfidious acts which commenced when our troops arrived in Utah. But I trust that the day is fast approaching when retributive justice will be meted out to these worse than open traitors to their country.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier-General , U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., April 17, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report that in pursuance of special instructions from General P. Edward Connor, commanding District of Utah, I ordered Lieutenant Honeyman, of the Third California Volunteer Infantry, with five gunners and one howitzer, with ammunition (covered up in an ambulance as a blind), to start from this post on the morning of April 11 and proceed to the town of Pleasant Grove, situated in a southeasterly direction and distant forty miles from this camp, and there await my coming or further orders. That on Sunday evening, April 12, at 6 o'clock, in pursuance of the same instructions, I started for the same town with forty-seven men of Company A, commanded by Second Lieut. A. Ethier, and forty-nine men of Company H, Second California Volunteer Cavalry, commanded by First Lieut. C. D. Clark and Second Lieut. James Bradley, for the purpose of making that town the base of operations against a band of hostile Indians, the same who committed the late depredations upon the overland stages between Salt Lake City and Ruby Valley, and who were reported to be in Spanish Fork Cañon, thirty-five miles in a southerly direction from Pleasant Grove; that I reached the town of Pleasant Grove at 3 a. m. April 13 and found that Lieutenant Honeyman had arrived there on the previous morning, and had put his animals up in a corral of one of the Mormon settlers to await my arrival or further orders; that at 6 p. m. of the same day a band of some 100 Indians came rushing down upon the town, and dismounting on the outskirts deployed into the town skulking behind adobe fences, hay-stacks, &c., until they completely surrounded the building in which Lieutenant Honeyman and his five men were, when they commenced firing upon him. The lieutenant when he first discovered the approach of the Indians—they being yet some miles from the house in which he was—immediately set his men to work uncovering, getting out of the ambulance, and putting together for action his howitzer, which being done he loaded with shell with a 600-yards fuse, and ran his piece up to the cross street, at the end of which the Indians had dismounted, with the intention of using it against them as they started into the town, but they deploying as above stated rendered it impossible for him to use his gun to any advantage, and finding that the Indians were surrounding him he very prudently retired to the house where his ambulance and mules were. By this time the Indians were within some thirty or forty yards of him, and he, seeing that unless something was done promptly he and his little party would be massacred, very wisely took possession of the house (a small adobe) and prepared to defend himself as best he could. After firing two shots from the house with the howitzer the walls of the building became so much cracked that he was compelled to cease firing for fear of the building falling. The Indians in the meantime from the adobe wall-fence and haystacks in the vicinity were pouring an incessant shower of balls into the house, which they kept up from about sundown until 8 o'clock at night, literally riddling the door and windows, but fortunately without killing or wounding any one in the building, although the stovepipe, pans, plates, and almost everything in the house except the men received a shot. At 8 o'clock the Indians ceased firing and left the town, taking with them the provisions, blankets, &c., of the lieutenant and his five men, as also the Government animals that were left alive, seven in number, five having been killed during the engagement. I enter into details in mentioning these seemingly unimportant facts, not because I deem them of any importance in themselves, but that they may be taken and considered in connection with the strange but stubborn fact that all this occurred in the town of Pleasant Grove in the face and eyes of a population of several hundred people calling themselves civilized and American citizens—God save the mark ! Right in the heart of a Mormon town, where there were perhaps not less than 100 or 150 white men (Mormons), in the broad daylight 75 or 100 savages attack and attempt to murder six American citizens and do carry off mules, harness, and other Government property, and not a hand is lifted to assist or protect them or to prevent the stealing of the Government property; but on the contrary they stand around the street corners and on top of their houses and hay-stacks complacently looking on, apparently well pleased at the prospect of six Gentiles (soldiers) being murdered. They actually assisted the Indians in catching the Government mules that had effected their escape from the corral, and from their natural fear of the redskins were endeavoring to keep beyond their reach. The foregoing facts speak for themselves. Comment is unnecessary further than to say that Lieutenant Honeyman believes and thinks that he has prima facie evidence of the fact upon which to found his belief that the savages were informed by the Mormons of his presence in the town with only five men, and, as they supposed, a wagon load of provisions, bound for Fort Bridger, and that it was a contrived and partnership arrangement between some of the Mormons and the Indians to murder his little party, take the property, and divide the spoils.

            In the morning (April 13) as soon as light I started out scouts in different directions to find the course that the Indians had taken, and at the same time sent an express to the general commanding, notifying him what had occurred, and the position I was in as to transportation for my howitzer and ammunition, as well as to the want of animals for the gunners to ride, &c., and received that evening in reply notice from the general that he had ordered Captain Price with his company to join me, and that he had sent with them mules for the howitzer and gunners in place of those stolen by the Indians. Captain Price arrived with his company, numbering sixty men, about 11 o'clock at night, bringing with him the animals for the howitzer, &c. In the meantime my scouts had returned with the information that they could get no trace of the Indians, excepting that eight of them had passed through the town of Provo, some ten miles to the south of Pleasant Grove with the stolen animals, on their way and in the direction of Spanish Fork. The Mormons, however, insisted upon it that the body of the Indians had scattered, and by different routes, had concentrated in what is known as Dry Cañon, where they had a considerable encampment, and their women and children, and as Lieutenant Honeyman seemed also to think that the Indians who attacked him had come out of this Dry Cañon, and as I could find no evidence of a large body of Indians traveling farther south, I concluded to make a drive on Dry Cañon and satisfy myself as to the fact whether they were there or not. I accordingly started in the morning at 7 o'clock with the howitzer and fifty men up what is known as Provo Cañon, and sent Lieutenants Clark and Bradley with the same number of men up Dry Cañon, the two cañons connecting, or at least there being an outlet at the head of Dry Cañon leading over and into Provo Cañon. In this way with the force in Provo Cañon I was certain to head and cut off the enemy from retreat, provided he was, as represented, encamped in Dry Cañon. I, however, found from actual examination after scouring every nook and corner of the two cañons, over almost impassable ledges, the men walking and leading their horses and climbing for six hours (and losing one horse which fell down a precipice, breaking his neck), that there were no Indians in that section, nor had there been for weeks ; that the statements of the Mormons in regard to the Indians were premeditated lies, gotten up for the purpose of misleading me, and giving the latter time either to get away or prepare for battle. In coming out of Provo Cañon I went across some points of mountains to the southward, discovering the Indian trail at last where they had concentrated and traveled in force toward the celebrated impregnable (so-called) Spanish Fork. I immediately proceeded to and through the town of Provo, it being in the direction and the best road to Spanish Fork, intending to pursue the enemy rapidly ; but at this town, fifteen miles from Spanish Fork, I received reliable information by means of a soldier dressed as a citizen and passing himself off as a Mormon, that one Potter, a Mormon, had gone into the cañon to notify the Indians of my approach, of the number of men I had, &c., and that there were other Mormons watching around to give the Indians notice of my every movement. Under the circumstances I found that it was necessary for me to practice a little deception on the Mormons if I expected to accomplish anything in the way of catching and particularly of surprising the Indians. So I encamped on the south side of the town of Provo, far enough away from the town to be able to slip off in the night without their knowledge, and giving out the impression that I should stay all night and in the morning send scouts up to Spanish Fork to ascertain whether the Indians were really there and what their number was, &c. ; and to completely allay any suspicions regarding my moving during the night I made verbal arrangements and contracts to have hay and grain delivered for the command in the morning, and in fact the men themselves believed they were to remain until morning. But at midnight I had them awakened noiselessly, without the sound of a bugle note, saddled up and slipped off with the intention of reaching the mouth of the cañon before daylight, and making my arrangements to advance up the cañon as soon as it was light enough for the men to see to walk and climb the mountains.

            I reached the mouth of the cañon just as day was breaking on the l5th of April; had my one wagon with provisions and the ambulance driven up parallel to each other and thirty paces apart, and, taking the lariat ropes off the horses' necks, tied them together, making a picket rope, and stretched it from one vehicle to the other. I then dismounted Captain Price's company (sixty men), and twenty men of Company H, leaving Lieutenant Finnerty with twenty men to guard the eighty horses, which were tied up to the picket rope; directed Captain Price to take Lieutenant Weed and forty men across the river to deploy as flankers and skirmishers on the south side of the cañon, and Lieutenant Clark to take Lieutenant Bradley and forty men to deploy as flankers and skirmishers on the left, or north, side of the cañon, myself taking Lieutenant Ethier, Adjutant Harris, and Lieutenant Peel, with about fifty men, and Lieutenant Honeyman, with the howitzer and accompanying gunners, up the center of the cañon. By the time these preliminaries were arranged it had reached the hour of 4.30 a. m. and would have been quite light but for the heavy rain that was falling. After moving up in this order, my flankers having almost insurmountable mountain spurs to cross that were running down into the Spanish Fork, necessarily making their movements very slow, at 5 a. m., and after getting into the cañon about a mile, the enemy, from his chosen positions on the right, left, and front, opened fire The howitzer having been run up on the spur of a mountain, Lieutenant Honeyman, in charge of it, could easily see where the enemy's fire was the heaviest, and with great coolness and skill he dropped his shell among them, the center in the meantime moving steadily up until they came right onto the brink of a deep side ravine in which the enemy had his main force, and opened on him with the revolvers. This was too much for him ; he could not stand such close quarters. When it came to meeting the cool but piercing eye of the white men in deadly conflict, face to face, the redskins quailed, and they began to give way. Then the ''forward" and "charge" were sounded and the fight became a running one, the Indians taking advantage of every little outlet from the main cañon, as they retreated up it, to make their escape. At 11 a. m., after chasing the enemy with cavalry fourteen miles up the cañon, scattering him like quails, and finding that my horses were giving out, and knowing that I had a long road to retrace through a dangerous cañon, I ordered the "recall" and "assembly" sounded.

            The result of the expedition and battle is that although the Indians were in possession and expecting us later in the day we surprised them as to the time of our coming. We killed about 30 warriors, their chief among the number, and wounded many more who made their escape for the time, but who will undoubtedly die; recaptured 3 [mules] and 1 horse, with saddles, bridles, &c., that had been stolen from Lieutenant Honeyman, and 18 horses, saddles, bridles, quite a number of good rifles, and other plunder of the Indians; losing on our side 1 killed— Lieut. F. A. Peel, regimental quartermaster, Second California Volunteer Cavalry—and 2 wounded—Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Brown and Sergeant Booth, of Company M, Second California Volunteer Cavalry. By the accompanying rough draft[2] of the cañon, and taking into consideration the fact that it is twenty-five miles long, you will see that it is an exceedingly strong hold, and will not be surprised at its being called by the Mormons and heretofore believed by the Indians to be the impenetrable and impregnable cañon; one such as none but California troops could drive a superior or even an equal number of Indians from. The enemy's force, from the best information I can get, was about 200 warriors. To Lieutenant Honeyman, and his coolness and skill in using his howitzer, is in a great measure due the credit of the battle being won with so slight a loss on our side. As for the Second Cavalry, both officers and men behaved as soldiers should, and it would be unfair to make any invidious distinctions. Suffice it to say that they sustained their well-earned fame as the "Fighting Second."

            All of which is respectfully submitted.

GEO. S. EVANS,

Colonel Second California Vol. Cav., Commanding Expedition.

Lieut. W. L. Ustick,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Utah.

__________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 208-210]

APRIL 12-24, 1863.—Expedition from Camp Babbitt to Keysville, Cal.

Report of Capt. Moses A. McLaughlin, Second California Cavalry.

Camp Independence,

Owen's River Valley, April 24, 1863.

            Colonel: I have the honor to report that in obedience to instructions dated Camp Babbitt, near Visalia, Cal., April 10, 1863, and signed Lieut. Col. William Jones, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, I left Camp Babbitt on Sunday, the 12tli instant, in command of twenty-four men of Company D and eighteen men of Company E, accompanied by Lieutenants French and Daley, one 12-pounder howitzer, and four six-mule Government teams, used for the transportation of rations, company property, ammunition, and forage, all of which arrived in good condition at Camp Independence, Owen's Valley, on the 24th of the same month. Distance traveled I suppose to be 250 or 275 miles, I had been instructed by Colonel Jones to investigate the Indian troubles on Kern River. On arriving at Keysville I was waited upon by several of the residents of the place, who represented that there was a large body of Indians encamped upon the North Fork of Kern River; that many of these Indians had doubtless been engaged in the war and in the depredations committed in Kern River Valley; that one man had been murdered in Kelsey Canon ; that Roberts and Waldron had lost about 150 head of stock; that many other citizens had lost cattle, horses, and other property; that the roads were unsafe, and finally, that the Indians there congregated were for the most part strangers in the valley, and were thought to be Tehachapie and Owen's River Indians, who after seeing so many troops pass had endeavored to shield themselves from punishment by seeking the more immediate vicinity of the white settlements. After having the above statements, and learning that José Chico was in the neighborhood, I sent for him and two other chiefs who were known to have been friendly. José Chico is an Owen's River Indian, but resides on Kern River, where he cultivates a farm. He speaks but little English. In Spanish he, however, makes himself well understood. From him I learned that the Tehachapies had endeavored to have him go to the war with them; that many of his own Indians had gone; that some had returned and were now in the valley, sleeping in the camps at night and hiding in the daytime; that there were many Indians there whom he did not know, either Owen's or Tehachapies. I told him to remain in camp with me and dismissed the others. I informed Doctor George, Mr. Herman, and others, citizens, that I would visit the camps early in the morning, and that they might accompany me and vouch for such Indians as they might know. Accordingly at 2 a. m. on the 19th, accompanied by a detail of twenty men of my command and Lieutenant Daley, with José Chico as guide, I left camp, and at dawn surrounded the camp of the Indians, which was situated about ten miles from Keysville, upon the right bank of Kern River. I had the bucks collected together, and informed José Chico and the citizens who had arrived that they might choose out those whom they knew to have been friendly. This was soon done. The boys and old men I sent back to their camps, and the others, to the number of thirty-five, for whom no one could vouch, were either shot or sabered. Their only chance for life being their fleetness, but none escaped, though many of them fought well with knives, sticks, stones, and clubs. This extreme punishment, though I regret it, was necessary, and I feel certain that a few such examples will soon crush the Indians and finish the war in this and adjacent valleys. It is now a well-established fact that no treaty can be entered into with these Indians. They care nothing for pledges given, and have imagined that they could live better by war than peace. They will soon learn that they have been mistaken, as with the forces here they will soon either be killed off, or pushed so far in the surrounding deserts that they will perish by famine. A Tejon prisoner says the Tejon and Tehachapie Indians (those for whom the Government has done so much) have been engaged in both these wars, and as soon as they are tired return to the reservation. The Indian agents should be notified of this fact. If I have to send down there I will leave them very little to do, and save the Government some treasure. The route from Visalia by way of Walker's Pass is far preferable to the Los Angeles route, as upon the former there is wood, water, and grass at easy marches. Forage can be purchased in Tulare Valley and forwarded to Keysville, from which point the Government teams can bring it to Camp Independence, having water and grass at intervals upon the road, of not more than fifteen or twenty miles, while upon the Los Angeles road from Tehachapie Cañon by Walker's Pass, a distance of over fifty miles, there is not a blade of grass and the water unfit to be used.

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

M. A. McLaughlin,

Capt., Second Cav. California Vol., Comdg. Camp Independence.

Col. R. C. Drum.

            Assistant Adjutant-General, San Francisco, Cal.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 391]

Headquarters District of Utah,

Camp Douglas, April 13, 1863. (Received 3 p. m.)

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant- General:

            Unless speedily re-enforced with cavalry the overland mail will be broken up and the emigrant route will be impassable. The Indians, urged on by the Mormons, are congregating for that purpose. Five of my men had a fight with 100 Indians yesterday in a Mormon town, and not a Mormon would help them. I lost 12 mules, 5 of which, with 3 Indians, were killed by a shot from a howitzer my men had with them. The men were in advance of an expedition under Colonel Evans.

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 392]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, April 14, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General : I have the honor to inclose herewith the report of Col. P. E. Connor, Third Infantry California Volunteers, of his inspection of the troops, buildings, and property at Camp Douglas, near Great Salt Lake City, Utah Territory.[3]

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 393-394]

Camp Babbitt,

Near Visalia, April 14, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant-General, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Sir : I have the honor to report that on the night of the 9th instant it came to my knowledge that the celebrated war chief Joaquin Jim had arrived from Owen's Valley, and was at a rancheria near the foothills, about seventeen miles east of this camp. On the morning of the 10th I ordered Lieut. William L. Knight, of Company I, with four men to the place where Joaquin Jim was reported to have been the day before, and capture him and bring him to this camp. Lieutenant Knight arrived at the house of Mr. Ogden about 10 o'clock, and there learned that the Indian was at the rancheria, about half a mile from Mr. Ogden's. Lieutenant Knight immediately repaired to the rancheria, but Jim was not to be found, but was told that Jim had gone to a ranch about one mile farther down the creek. Lieutenant Knight went to the ranch, Mr. Ogden going with him. When they got to the ranch and were going into the garden the Indian espied them and ran to a deep slough and swam across. Lieutenant Knight, with his men, rode in the slough, swam their horses across, and after a race of nearly half a mile, during which time he fired five shots from his pistol, three of them taking effect, which effectually stopped his further progress, sending his spirit to the land of his fathers, where he will trouble the white man no more. Joaquin Jim had the evidence of having been in the late battle at Owen's Lake, having received a gunshot wound under the right shoulder blade, and had already begun to turn black around the wound. They told Mr. Ogden the day before that he was in the battle last spring at the head of Owen's Valley. He had an old wound on the back of his head that he received in the battle last spring that had not yet healed up. This accounts for the fact that he did not come into Camp Independence last spring at the time the treaty was made. It was then reported that he was sick and unable to be brought in. He was well known to several men in the valley who had seen him on the other side of the mountains.

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

WM. JONES,

Lieutenant- Colonel Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Comdg.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 398]

Washington, April 15, 1863—3.15 p. m.

Brig. Gen. George Wright :

            The Secretary of War authorizes you to raise additional regiments in California and Nevada to re-enforce General Connor and protect the overland route. Cannot companies be raised in Nevada and pushed forward immediately? General Connor may be able to raise some companies in Utah or out of emigrant trains.

H. W. HALLECK,

General-in- Chief.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 401-402]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., April 16, 1863.

His Excellency O. Clemens,

            Governor of Nevada 'Territory, Carson City, Nev. Ter.:

            Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency's communication of the 9th instant. The Indian disturbances along the line of the Overland Mail Route east of Carson City threaten the entire suspension of our mail facilities, as well as preventing any portion of the vast immigration approaching from the east reaching Nevada. The interest and prosperity of your Territory depend much upon maintaining free and safe access to it from all directions. My force immediately available for operation on that line is small. A company of cavalry stationed at Fort Churchill and under orders to move toward Ruby Valley, I was compelled to divert for temporary service to assist in quelling an Indian outbreak in the Owen's Lake district; as soon as the services of this company can be dispensed with there, it will operate on the mail and emigrant line.

            Some infantry companies will also be thrown forward from this side of the mountains as soon as transportation can be prepared and the roads are in order. In the meantime it is of such importance to keep the mail and emigrant route east of you open that I would earnestly recommend that one or two companies of cavalry be promptly organized and prepared for muster into the service of the United States. It is impossible at this moment for us to purchase horses and equipments; each man would have to furnish his own, I can furnish arms, ammunition, forage, clothing, provisions, &c.; in fact, everything except horses and equipments. The organization of a company or troop of cavalry is: One captain, 1 first lieutenant, 1 second lieutenant, 1 first sergeant, 1 quartermaster sergeant, 1 commissary sergeant, 5 sergeants, 8 corporals, 2 teamsters, 2 farriers or blacksmiths, 1 saddler, 1 wagoner, 78 privates. This is the first appeal that has been made to Nevada Territory, a Territory soon to add another star to that glorious galaxy which adorns our beautiful banner, and I doubt not this call will be nobly responded to by the loyal and patriotic citizens of the Territory.

            With great respect, Your Excellency's most obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 404]

Headquarters District of Utah,

April 16, 1863. (Received 10 a. m. 17th.)

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum:

            Detachment cavalry under Colonel Evans had fight with Indians yesterday at Spanish Fork Cañon, seventy miles south. Lieutenant Peel killed, 2 sergeants wounded; 30 Indians killed and their horses captured. The command will arrive to-morrow.

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 406]

San Francisco, April 18, 1863.

Major-General Halleck,

            Washington, D. C.:

            Your dispatch of 15th received. I have already appealed to Governor of Nevada. Probably two mounted companies will be raised there and thrown forward on mail line.

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 407]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, April 20, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C:

            General : I have received Major-General Halleck's dispatch of the 15th instant. I had previously called upon the acting Governor of Nevada Territory for troops to operate on the Overland Mail Route, in the direction of Salt Lake, and from his reply I think we can raise in that Territory 200 mounted men, and possibly two companies of infantry. I have urged upon the Governor the necessity of promptly enrolling the companies. Although the line is comparatively quiet just now, yet it is liable to interruption at any moment by predatory bands of Indians. The two companies of the Third Infantry California Volunteers, now at Camp Union, Sacramento, will be put on the march for Utah as soon as practicable; at this moment it is impossible to forage our animals east of Carson City. The cavalry (company stationed at Fort Churchill was under orders to move along the mail line, but I was compelled to send it first to aid in quelling the Indian disturbances in Owen's River Valley; when this is accomplished the company will be advanced promptly toward Salt Lake. We have had many affairs with the Indians lately in the District of Humboldt, in the Owen's River Valley, on the overland mail line, and south of Camp Douglas, in all of which our troops have been victorious ; a large number of Indians have been killed and their property, with their women and children, captured. The California troops have behaved most gallantly, and deserve the highest credit. General Alvord has commenced his movement toward Fort Boise, on Snake River, to establish a post at that place in accordance with the instructions from the War Department. Lieutenant-Colonel Drew, with two companies of Oregon cavalry, is making preparations to move from his camp, near Jacksonville, east to the neighborhood of the Klamath Lakes, to establish a post in that vicinity for the protection of the emigrant route. A few weeks since the public mind on this coast was roused to the highest pitch; apprehensions were entertained that the sympathizers with rebellion were secretly organizing and preparing to raise the rebel flag in our midst. I am satisfied that these apprehensions were not groundless, although much exaggerated. I have been prepared to meet any emergency, keeping my troops well in hand and myself well posted as to the state of affairs in the most disaffected districts. This alarm, lest this State should be thrown into the vortex of civil war, has been productive of the greatest good. It has aroused the whole of the loyal population of the State to a sense of their duty and to be prepared to crush out any attempt to disturb the peace of the State. Great mass meetings of loyal and true men are being held in every city, town, and county in the State. Great Union leagues are everywhere forming, composed of men sworn to uphold the Government and maintain the Union. This is real strength. The Governor of the State and all of the high officers and leading citizens are united as one man to promote the organization of these leagues. As commander of this department I have most cordially approved and aided this union of the loyal element. This upheaving of the patriotic masses of California will have a happy effect in quieting the apprehensions of the people, as well as in striking terror into the hearts of the traitors.

            With great respect, your most obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S, Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 410-411]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., April 22, 1863.

Capt. M. A. McLaughlin,

            Second Cavalry California Volunteers,

                        Commanding Forces in Owen's River Valley:

(Through Lieutenant-Colonel Jones, commanding Camp Babbitt, Cal.)

            Sir: Whenever in your judgment the services of Captain Brown's company of cavalry are no longer essential in quelling the Indian disturbances in the Owen's River country, the general commanding directs that you will order it to proceed to Fort Churchill, Nev. Ter. where the captain will make immediate preparation for proceeding to join General Connor at or near Salt Lake City.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

            Colonel will forward this by express if practicable.

__________

Headquarters District of Utah,

Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., April 22, 1863.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of the Pacific:

            Colonel: I received on the 15th instant a copy of the dispatch from the General-in-Chief to the general commanding the department, which says I may be able to raise companies in Utah or out of emigrant trains. The latter would be impossible, as the emigrants coming this way are afflicted with the gold fever, and the Mormons are too disloyal to be trusted with arms, even if they would enlist, which I doubt. There is, however, a class of people here known as Morrisites, who have left the Mormon Church, and are persecuted by the Mormons to such an extent that they are actually suffering for the necessaries of life. A company could be raised from among them to garrison a post which I contemplate establishing on the overland emigrant route about 150 miles north of this post, in Idaho Territory, and about 40 miles from where the road from this place to Beaverhead Mines intersects the road from the east to California, Oregon, and the above mines, and in the vicinity of the summer resort of hostile Indians. It is an important point and should be occupied immediately by troops for the protection of the overland emigration. Although not in my district, I contemplate sending a company of infantry there next week. Another object I have in view is to form the nucleus of an anti-Mormon settlement, and a refuge for all who desire to leave the Mormon Church, and have not the means to emigrate farther. Large numbers of them will accompany the expedition and settle in the vicinity of the post. I consider the policy of establishing such a settlement of loyal people in close proximity to the Mormons of great benefit and importance to the Government for many reasons. I only fear that the poor people who may settle there will suffer for the necessaries of life, as most of them have families; therefore I would respectfully recommend that I be permitted to enlist a company from among them for twelve months, with the understanding that they are to garrison that post, and meanwhile they could make use of their time when off duty in cultivating the soil and laying the foundation of their future homes. The Mormons have stripped them of almost everything they possessed, and they are consequently very poor, but they are industrious. They propose that if they cannot be enlisted on the above terms they will do necessary post duty, provided I issue them arms and rations. In either case their services would save me a company of infantry for other duty. I respectfully ask the early consideration and orders of the general commanding on the above propositions, and would respectfully recommend the latter one as being in my opinion the most favorable to the Government, as with one of my present officers and six men to conduct matters and see to the care and preservation of arms, «&;c., I am satisfied the Government would be greatly benefited in many respects by adopting the proposition. I understand by telegraph to day that there are 1,200 cavalry at Denver. If the attention of the General-in-Chief were called to the fact he would probably send some of them here, and I need them very much.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 412]

San Francisco, April 23, 1863.

Maj. Charles McDermit,

            Fort Churchill:

            Nevada troops will rendezvous at Fort Churchill; term of enlistment, three years or during the war.

            By order:

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 412]

General Orders,           )                                               Camp Independence, Cal.,

No. 2.                          )                                               April 24, 1863.

            I. In obedience to instructions received, dated headquarters Department of the Pacific, April 1, 1863, the undersigned hereby assumes command of all troops, whether volunteers or militia, in Owen's Valley and adjacent valleys.

            II. All orders and regulations heretofore published and not rescinded will remain in full force and effect.

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 210-213]

APRIL 24-MAY 26, 1863.—Operations in Owen's River and adjacent valleys, Cal.

Report of Capt. Moses A. McLaughlin, Second California Cavalry.

Camp Independence,

Owen's River Valley, May 26, 1863.

            Colonel: In conjunction with the accompanying report, dated May 26, 1863, I would most respectfully beg leave to make the following statement in relation to the operations against the Indians in this and the adjacent valleys since April 24, 1863 : My almost continued absence in the mountains and the uncertainty of a speedy termination of the difficulties have rendered it heretofore very unsafe to make any statements which could be relied upon. I hope, therefore, colonel, that this will be a partial excuse for the brief and unsatisfactory reports that I have been very unwillingly obliged to forward to your office. On my arrival at Camp Independence April 24, 1863, I found that the Indians were following the same mode of warfare which they had adopted against Colonel Evans in 1862—that of drawing the troops into deep cañons and ravines, up the sides of precipitous mountains, where, hidden behind the rocks, they could with safety use their arms against the exhausted soldiers as they endeavored to follow them. In almost every skirmish the Indians were thus enabled to kill or wound some of the men. I abandoned this course and directed the troops to be conducted during the night up the mountains, where they were easiest of ascent, and where the Indians were not thought to be, and as soon as daylight would permit, to search for Indians in the ravines and cañons as they descended to the base of the mountains, where mounted parties were stationed to cut them off should they be forced into the valley. This plan did not suit the Indians, and consequently they abandoned range after range, spring after spring, so closely followed by the troops that they were obliged to throw away even their water jars and seek refuge in the deserts near Death Valley, where they were forced to subsist upon cactus and carry water at least a day's march. In the meantime scouting parties were employed in searching for any smaller bands who might have remained behind hidden in the tule swamps along the river, and scarcely a day passed without two or three of them being found and killed, and everything destroyed that could be of any use to the living. I had instructed the troops, however, that it was of the utmost importance that prisoners should be taken, not only women but men, as I felt confident that their love of life would prompt them to furnish important information as to the whereabouts of the other Indians, their numbers, &c., and that possibly they could be used as guides.

            About the 14th of May several Indians who had remained hidden near the river were captured by Captain Noble's men, and finding that they would not be harmed, but that, on the contrary, they would receive food and clothing, and being informed through the interpreter that we came to make peace, not war, they were prevailed upon to conduct the troops to where they supposed a large party belonging to Joaquin Jim was encamped and where they could be surrounded. From these Indians I learned that Captain George was near Death Valley, but the exact place they did not know. I furnished them with four passes and white flags, explained to them their nature, allowing them fifteen days from the 16th of May to find Captain George and the other Indians and bring them into camp ; informed them that after that time if they had not delivered themselves up that no more prisoners would be taken, neither men, women, nor children; that the land which had been set apart for their use would be given away, and that a price would be set upon their heads. I also reminded them of the fate of the Tehachapie and Kern River Indians. On the part of the Government I made liberal promises, as it had everything to gain by their submission and nothing to lose if they did not submit. The four runners referred to I had detained in camp until such time as I might be able to reach Captain Jim's camp. Accompanied by Captain Noble, Lieutenant Denny, and a detail of eighty men from Companies E and L, and three Indians, I left Bishop's Creek (fifty miles above Camp Independence), but owing to the darkness of the night, the difficulties of the trail, and the ignorance of the Indians as to distance, the command did not reach the Indian camp until an hour after sunrise on the 16th. The most intimate knowledge of the locality, aided by the darkness of the night, could only have promised success, as the camp was so situated that it commanded a view of all approaches. The Indians were, however, obliged to abandon everything, even their sick and lame, and seek refuge in the mountains, where it would have been dangerous to have followed them with men already exhausted by a ride of over forty miles during a piercing cold night. The huts, baskets, and other property were destroyed; the helpless left unmolested. The detachment remained out four days, returning by way of Adobe Meadows and Hot Springs Valley. At Big Pine Creek (Captain Noble's camp) on the 19th of May I issued an order suspending hostilities until further orders and sent out more Indian messengers.

            On the 21st an Indian was brought into camp who came to announce that Captain George was on his way and would be in camp in two days. In order to learn the truth of the statement, and if true to protect Captain George from the fury of the citizens should they chance to meet him, I sent Sergt. Daniel McLaughlin and Blacksmith Larcom with the guide to find him and conduct him into camp, and on the evening of the 22d I had the pleasure of seeing them return with the much-feared Indian chieftain. Captain George remained all night and went back next day and brought in his people, who appeared to have suffered severely from hunger and thirst. He informed me that many of the women and children had died for want of water. Messengers are out gathering in the scattered bands, and I think there are now here about 300. The number will be increased to about 1,000 by the arrival of the Coso, Joaquin Jim, Captain Dick, Tenimaha, and other chiefs. I have before had the honor of stating to you that these Indians had no idea of the importance or obligations of a treaty, only so far as Indian agents fulfill their promises, and as has already happened, a month's delay in the arrival of the expected gifts would be sufficient to plunge this valley into another war. Mr. Wentworth, Indian agent for this district, has been most undoubtedly the cause of the present difficulties, and from representations made to me he has been shamefully negligent of his duties; added to this his ignorance of Indian character, who expect more than promised, never less. Mr. Wentworth promised everything, gave nothing, and the results have been the destruction of life and property of settlers in the valley, besides an immense outlay to the Government. Undoubtedly many of the Indians deserve the severest punishment, yet it would be very difficult to distinguish between the innocent and guilty. I would therefore recommend that they be removed to Nome Lackie, or some other Government reserve where they would be prevented from future outbreaks, or that a military commission be appointed to try and punish those found guilty, which would, I think, result in the putting to death of nearly every male Indian over twelve years of age. If their lives can be spared with safety to the valley I would respectfully recommend it, but fear that next year would only see a repetition of present difficulties.

            In conclusion I would most respectfully beg leave to recommend to your kind notice the officers and men of this command. True, they have not fought great battles—there were none to fight—but the midnight marches over untrodden mountains, mounted, but more frequently dismounted; the sufferings from hunger, thirst, heat and cold, endured without a murmur; added to these the frequent disappointment of finding the enemy gone, without being discouraged, are qualities which will I hope meet with the approbation of those who recognize and esteem true courage. Every order given has been obeyed, no matter what the amount of labor or hardships entailed ; no discussing of reasons why or wherefore. By their implicit obedience and unremitting toil by day or night, in less than twenty days from the date of assuming command I have the honor to report to you the Indians subdued and suing for peace, and a force of 250 well-disciplined and brave men only too anxious to find a more worthy field wherein to serve their country. Doctor George, from his knowledge of the country and experience in Indian fighting, has rendered signal service, and deserves many thanks, if not more substantial proofs of appreciation. Lieut. George D. French deserves particular notice, as I have learned from the Indians that instead of killing one Indian as reported he and his detail of seven men killed four. José Chico, the interpreter, has rendered most important services, as through him alone I have been able to communicate with the Indians.

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

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant- General, U. S. Army, San Francisco.

[Inclosure.]

Camp Independence,

Owen's River Valley, May 26, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant-General, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Colonel: I have the honor to report that the Indian chiefs To-sah-o-i-do-bah (Captain George), See-ah-ko-see, To-chu-ten-air-up, and their Indians are now at this camp, subject to your order. Respectfully referred to accompanying statement.

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

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

June 5, 1863.

            Respectfully referred to Mr. Wentworth, superintendent for southern Indians, for his information. The department commander desires Mr. Wentworth to take charge of and locate the within-named Indians, the troops giving the necessary assistance. Please return,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 413-415]

Executive Department, Nevada Territory,

Carson City, April 27, 1863.

Brig. Gen. George Wright, U. S. Army,

            Commanding Department of the Pacific, San Francisco:

            General : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 16th instant and to inclose you a copy of my proclamation,[4] published in yesterday morning's Virginia Daily Territorial Enterprise and Virginia Daily Union, calling for two companies of cavalry and two companies of infantry, to serve three years or during the war.

            I have the pleasure to state that so soon as the army board is organized applicants for commissions as captain, first lieutenant, and second lieutenant of the first company of cavalry will present themselves for examination. They are men that I think will pass examination and prove themselves excellent officers, as well as surely loyal. To be sure of the latter I require appointees to be Union men, supporters of the Administration, including the emancipation proclamation. While at Fort Churchill I took the liberty of requesting Lieutenant Runyon, who was writing the questions, to provide for examination on this by the board, and make the interrogatory pointed on the emancipation proclamation.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ORION CLEMENS,

Acting Governor of Nevada Territory.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., April 28, 1863.

Maj. Charles McDermit,

            Second Cav. California Vols., Comdg. Fort Churchill, Nev. Ter.:

            Sir : The department commander directs that the troops authorized to be raised in Nevada Territory will rendezvous at Fort Churchill. This force will consist of two companies of cavalry and two of infantry. The quartermaster's and subsistence departments will be instructed to send the necessary supplies of subsistence and clothing. The enlisted men in the cavalry companies will furnish their own horses and horse equipments and receive therefor the amount allowed by law (40 cents per day). The arms and accouterments will be forwarded from Benicia Arsenal.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

Special Orders,            )                                                                       Camp Independence,

No. 4.                          )                                               Owen's River Valley, April 28, 1863.

            I. Capt. Heman Noble, of Company E, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, will, as soon as practicable, leave his present camp on or near Big Pine Creek and move upon the Aurora road, and there form a camp wherever he may find good water and grass, the distance from the head of Owen's Valley not to exceed thirty miles.

            II. As soon as Captain Noble has formed his camp he will use all his available force in scouting for Indians in the surrounding country.

            III. Capt. Albert Brown, of Company L, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, will so dispose his force as to keep the head of the valley clear of the Indians and make any necessary reconnaissance as to the whereabouts of the Indians.

            IV. All re-enforcements will be promptly furnished from the troops nearest to the Indians upon application of any commissioned officer without further orders from this post.

            By order:

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

Headquarters District of Utah,

Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., April 28, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum,

            Asst. Adjt. Gen., U. S. Army, Department of the Pacific:

            Colonel. : I regret that circumstances again compel me to urge upon the general commanding the necessity of sending re-enforcements to this district. The Indians are congregating in large force in the vicinity of the Mormon settlements south of this post, with a view of depredating on the overland mail and emigrant routes, and are incited and encouraged in their hellish work by Brigham Young, by whose direction they are also supplied with food, and by his people with ammunition, which I have no means of preventing, nor can I strike at them before they get stronger, as in order to reach them I have to pass through Mormon settlements, and the Mormons notify the Indians of my approach, when they scatter to their inaccessible mountain retreats, and thus avoid me. I understand the agents of the Overland Mail Company are opposed to having more troops sent here. Why, I am unable to say. I can only surmise, but cannot prove anything, as nothing can be proved here against Mormon, or one of their Gentile favorites. I deem it a duty I owe to my command to notify the Government through the general commanding of the danger to which they are exposed from the treachery, fanaticism, and disloyalty of this people in case of a serious reverse to our arms in the East. I have also serious fears in consequence of my small command being necessarily scattered over a large extent of territory, of being overpowered in detail by the hordes of Indians now congregating under Mormon auspices, and who my spies inform me are to be joined by Mormons disguised as Indians. Brigham Young has complete control of the Indians of the Territory, and could, if he chose, prevent the horrors that will soon be enacted on the overland route, and which with the force at my command I am powerless to prevent. If the exigencies of the service will not admit of my being adequately re-enforced, I would again respectfully recommend that Brigham Young's offer to protect the overland mail and emigrant route for a certain sum be accepted, and my command withdrawn, in which case the obnoxious Federal officers would of course have to leave.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U.S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 416-417]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, April 30, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant- General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of two communications from Major-General Halleck, dated respectively on the 29th and 31st of March. A copy of the first has been sent to Brigadier-General Connor, commanding the District of Utah. The information conveyed in the second letter of the General in-Chief that an iron-clad vessel is already on its way to this coast will produce the most happy effect in allaying the apprehensions which have for some time past existed in the public mind in regard to the defenses of San Francisco. At this moment everything is quiet on the Overland Mail Route and also in the Territory of Utah ; but I shall not be lulled into a false security, but use every effort to throw forward re-enforcements as soon as possible. We are, however, laboring in this country under the greatest difficulties and embarrassments, both in the procurement of men and means. One cause is the high price of labor and the wonderful developments constantly being made in the mining districts in this State and in the adjoining Territory of Nevada; and a still greater and controlling cause is the depreciation of our currency. Gold being the basis of our circulation, coin only is used in all business transactions, and Treasury notes can only be used at a discount of at least 35 cents on the dollar. This operates with peculiar hardship on all persons in the service of the Government whose compensation is fixed by law. My latest advices from Brigadier-General Alvord represent everything as quiet in the District of Oregon. A council will be held early in May with the Nez Percé Indians, whither General Alvord had ordered Colonel Steinberger and Major Lugenbeel with a suitable force; and then the expedition to chastise the Snake Indians will be pressed forward, in connection with the establishment of Fort Boise. I have directed General Alvord to send Maj. P. Lugenbeel as commander, and Capt. W. B. Hughes as quartermaster, to build the new post at Boise. Major Lugenbeel and Captain Hughes are very industrious, active, and economical, with much experience in planning and building, and peculiarly adapted to this duty. It is quite probable that Major Lugenbeel has been already promoted; should such be the case, I hope you will authorize me to keep both him and Captain Hughes for this important duty.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 420]

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., May 2, 1863.

Lieut. W. L. Ustick,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Utah:

            Lieutenant : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 28th ultimo this morning. Previous to receiving it I had sent Captain Potts to Spring Valley and vicinity to join Captain Smith with the infantry in an expedition against Indians, whom I have good reason to believe are encamped at the base of a mountain about forty or fifty miles from Spring Valley Station, in a northerly direction. My information is derived from friendly Indians who live in this valley, four of whom accompany Captain Smith as guides and are held as hostages. They report that the Indians have in their possession quite a large band of horses and mules, and their strength is supposed to be from 100 to 150. I feel confident that the expedition will be successful. I am making all arrangements for the departure of the company (F) and as soon as Captain Potts returns will order him to leave immediately. The instructions of the general commanding in relation to the cavalry have been anticipated by me, and they have not at any time been kept at this post longer than was absolutely necessary to rest and shoe their horses. They have twenty days' rations with them at this time, and as their depot will be either at Spring Valley or Skull Creek, it will be an easy matter for me to send them more if wanted. My whole aim has been the detection and punishment of the Indians who have been committing depredations on the Overland Mail Line, and to that end I am disposing of the forces at my command in such a manner that I think the time is not far distant when they will receive a chastisement that will not soon be forgotten.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third Infantry California Volunteers, Commanding Post.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 423]

Special Orders,            )                                                           Camp Independence,

No. 5.                          )                                   Owen's River Valley, May 3[?], 1863.

            I. Lieutenant McKenna, of Company G, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, taking with him thirty men of Company G, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, will leave this camp at 7 p. m. of May 1, and cross Owen's River at the ferry, and will then proceed to the Ida Mills, where the men will be secreted till the evening of the 2d. He will then have horses saddled and proceed as far as Mazouka Canon, where he will have his men dismount, the horses being sent back to Camp Independence. The lieutenant will then move up the mountains, keeping the Indian monument to his right, and will, if possible, arrive on the top of the mountains before daylight, when he will deploy his men along the top of the ridge northward, his left resting near the monument. At daylight he will command a movement toward the north, aiming to strike the river near the Black Rocks. The lieutenant will see that his men are furnished with canteens and rations for three days.

            II. Lieut. George D. French, taking with him twenty men of Companies D and E, will cross the river opposite Camp Independence on the morning of the 3d, and ascend the bluff, following up the plateau toward Black Rocks, acting in conjunction with Lieutenant McKenna and party. The lieutenant will see that his men are furnished with canteens and two days' rations.

            III. The officer commanding at Camp Independence will see that his men are posted in such positions that the movements of the troops can be observed when near the bluffs, that he may send them aid and have their horses forwarded to them when they may strike the river.

            By order:

M. A. MCLAUGHLIN,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 214-225]

MAY 4-OCTOBER 26, 1863.—Expedition to the Snake Indian Country, Idaho Ter.

REPORTS.[5]

            No. 1.—Brig. Gen. Benjamin Alvord, U. S. Army, commanding District of Oregon.

            No. 2.—Col. Reuben F. Maury, First Oregon Cavalry, commanding expedition.

No. 1.

Report of Brig. Gen. Benjamin Alvord, U. S. Army, commanding District of Oregon.

Headquarters District of Oregon,

Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter., September 1, 1863.

            Colonel: I have the honor to send you, hereto annexed, copies of reports dated 24th of July, 3d and 8th of August, received from Col. E. F. Maury, First Oregon Cavalry, commanding expedition against Snake Indians and upon the emigrant road. There seems every likelihood that he met Captain Crawford with the emigrant escort from Omaha, Nebr., on the 20th instant with the head of the emigration at the crossing above Fort Hall. I promised Captain Crawford to endeavor to thus arrange the movements of Colonel Maury, as see my plan set forth in my letter to you of the 10th of February last. Colonel Maury's dispatch of the 24th of July from Camp No. 25, Boise River, Idaho Ter., is as follows :

            I have the honor to report that having been supplied last evening by Capt. W. B. Hughes, assistant quartermaster, with the necessary outfit, my command this morning resumed the march. The animals of the expedition are not in as good plight as when we arrived at Boise River, but I shall endeavor to be at the crossing beyond Fort Hall between the 15th and 20th proximo.

            Colonel Maury's dispatch of the 3d of August from Camp No. 33. Camas Prairie, is as follows.[6]

            Colonel Maury's dispatch of the 8th of August, from Camp No. 33, Camas Prairie, is as follows.[7]

            I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BENJ. ALVORD,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Hdqrs. Department of the Pacific, San Francisco, Cal.

No. 2.

Reports of Col. Reuben F. Maury, First Oregon Cavalry, commanding expedition.

Headquarters First Oregon Cavalry,

Camp on Dry Creek, May 4, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report that I left Fort Walla Walla, Wash. Ter., this morning with Companies A, D, and E, of the First Oregon Cavalry, consisting of 7 officers and 212 enlisted men, en route for Fort Lapwai.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Headquarters First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers,

Camp No. 1, Left Fork, Lapwai, June 15, 1863.

            Sir: I have the honor to report that my command, consisting of Companies A, D, and E, First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, marched from Fort Lapwai this morning, and are now encamped at this place. I transmit herewith consolidated report of the strength of my command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers,

Camp No. 6, White River Crossing of Salmon River, Idaho Ter.,

June 20, 1863.

            Sir: I have the honor to report that my command arrived here to-day in good condition. I will cross Salmon River tomorrow. I have determined to proceed by the route up Little Salmon. The route thus far has been very good, and grass and water for animals abundant. No casualties. The health of the command is excellent and the troops in fine spirits.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding Expedition against Snake Indians.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Headquarters First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers,

Camp No. 11, on Little Salmon River, June 25, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report that my command arrived at above-named camp this day in good health and condition. The road thus far has been very good for a mountain road, with an abundance of wood, water, and grass, and with the exception of one or two places is perhaps as good a trail as could be expected in so broken and mountainous a country. Unfortunately two mules were precipitated down the side of the mountain today and killed. Their cargoes were saved. No other casualties have occurred. The distance to this point from Fort Lapwai is something over 100 miles, and the general course about south, or perhaps a trifle east of south. We are supposed to be about 145 miles from Bannock City or Placerville.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Headquarters First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers.

Camp Independence, in Payette Valley, Idaho Ter., July 4, 1863.

            Sir: I have the honor to report that I arrived at this point with my command this day in fair condition, being the twentieth day out from Fort Lapwai, and distance traveled, according to our calculation, 201 miles. We are now distant from Placerville about twenty-five miles in a northwest direction, having made a detour to the westward from the main trail by passing down the west side of Payette Valley until we reach the ferry across main Payette River, crossing at or near that point. I made this change of route from my original intention in order to avoid the mountain dividing the Payette and Boise Rivers, which at this point is represented to me as being in a very bad condition, and the grass and water very scarce. I expect to reach Boise River in four or five days, but at what particular point cannot now precisely state. Have as yet met with no Indians, nor any evidence of their proximity. The health of the command continues good, and the animals in as good condition generally as when we left Lapwai. For a more full report of the command I have the honor to refer you to the accompanying field return for the last ten days of June, which is without alteration this date.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding.

Acting- Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Headquarters First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers,

Camp No. 23, on Boise River, Idaho Ter., July 8, 1S63.

            Sir: I have the honor to report the arrival of my command at this place to-day, having marched 250 miles, estimated, from Fort Lapwai. This distance might have been reduced to 225 miles, and rafting Payette River, opposite Bonny Valley, obviated, by continuing down the west bank of Lake or Middle Fork from the point where the trail first crosses it, six miles southwest of Fish Lake. The health of my command continues good, and the animals are in as good condition as could be expected.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 24, on Boise River, Idaho Ter., July 13, 1863.

            Sir: I have been joined by Companies H and I, First Washington Territory Infantry, the strength of which you will see from the returns, and am now waiting for the necessary outfit, the supplies not having as yet arrived. In consequence of the scarcity and difficulty of procuring the means of transportation, I have determined to establish a depot at some eligible point between this and Fort Hall, from which I can send back a portion of our train for such additional supplies as I may require. The health of the command is as yet good, but I fear the consequence of much delay in camp, both upon its health and morale. Emigrants (two parties) from Missouri arrived yesterday. They report having seen Indians on Camas Prairie and beyond, though making no demonstration of hostilities. They also say that General Connor has been disappointed in his arrangements with the Indians; that one train had already been attacked some forty miles beyond Fort Hall. It will take me but few days to move after receiving the necessary supplies from Captain Hughes, which I have reason to think will be very soon, as his train has been heard from at Snake River, some forty miles distant.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

HDQRS. EXPEDITION AGAINST THE SNAKE INDIANS,

Camp No. 21, on Boise River, Idaho Ter., July 16, 1863.

            Sir: I have to report that my command is still lying here awaiting the arrival of supplies and means of transportation. Alkali in considerable quantities exists in this vicinity, which with the scarcity of good grass has affected our animals unfavorably. Inclosed please find consolidated morning report of my command for this day.

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

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 33, on Camas Prairie, August 3, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report the arrival of my entire command in this valley on the 1st instant. I arrived myself with 100 cavalry on the night of the 30th ultimo, leaving the remainder of the cavalry and the infantry, under command of Major Rinearson, to bring up the supply train. On the march from Fort Boise hither and since my arrival here I have kept scouting parties out on each side of the route, north and southward, in search of Indians, but thus far have been unable to find any evidence of their presence in the vicinity of the road later than two or three weeks ago. Two detachments are out at present with three days' supplies, one toward Snake River and one toward the source of Salmon and Boise Rivers. From the information received from emigrants and others recently over the route from Fort Hall to this place, I am led to believe that the principal number of the Indians who were here in the early spring are now in the vicinity of Fort Hall, for the ostensible purpose of making a treaty with General Connor. Those perhaps who are more hostile are near Salmon Falls, or on the south side of Snake River. This is an extensive and fertile valley. It is thirty miles in length and from six to eight miles in width, and is watered by many fine streams that take their rise in the mountain range dividing the waters of Salmon and Boise Rivers from those of Malade River, and crossing the valley at intervals of from two to four miles run southward into Malade River, which flows at the south side of the valley and in an easterly direction. The growth of grass throughout the entire valley is luxuriant, and the mountains on either side afford pine timber in large tracts or spots, not more than five miles distant from the margin of the valley. I shall leave Major Rinearson with the two infantry companies and a part of the cavalry at or near this place, and send sixty or seventy mules back to Fort Boise for additional supplies, whilst I shall proceed myself, with cavalry only, to Fort Hall. The health of my command is good and the animals are in fair condition.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 33, Camas Prairie, Idaho Ter., August 8, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report that the detachments of which mention was made in my last have all returned. Captain Currey with his detachment of twenty men returned last evening, having been five days out, and having made the entire circuit of Malade River to Salmon Falls. Finding fresh signs of Indians passing from this valley toward Snake River, he followed their trail, crossing Malade several times until he arrived in the vicinity of the falls, when he came upon a camp of seventeen lodges, which he immediately surrounded, but the Indians appeared defenseless, and made such demonstrations of friendship that he could not, with any regard for humanity, assault them. Accordingly he made captives of two leaders of their number and brought them with him to this camp. He found in all about 200 Indians in the vicinity of the falls engaged in fishing. They were apparently destitute, having little or no stock. Salmon Falls are almost due south and about sixty miles from here by the nearest route. Malade empties into Snake River about twelve miles below them. I have interrogated the Indians brought in by Captain Currey without being able to ascertain from them any clue to the whereabouts of any captive whites or the animals stolen by their tribe. They say, "The bad Indians are all gone to the buffalo country." I shall release them to-day. I shall move from here to-morrow or next day. It is supposed to be 130 to 140 miles from here to Fort Hall.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 33, Camas Prairie, Idaho Ter., August 8, 1863.

            General: The scouting parties sent out on my arrival in this valley have returned. The one (Captain Currey's) going to Salmon Falls found a few families at that point, mostly without arms or property of any kind and professing great friendship. A ferry has been established there. The owners live there unmolested, and represent the Indians in the vicinity as perfectly harmless. They are poor and depend upon fish for a living. If nothing occurs to prevent, I will cross the river at the falls on my return and give the streams entering on the south of Snake River a thorough search; perhaps, if time and circumstances permit, visit the headwaters of Owyhee and Malheur, meeting my supplies for the return to Walla Walla at Malheur River. The Indians at the falls, two of whom Captain Currey brought in with him, say that most all the Indians—all who were able—have gone east to the buffalo grounds. Very little dependence can be placed upon their representations. They say they know nothing of any treaty with General Connor. It is to be regretted very much, taking into consideration the present necessities, as well as future prospects, of the Government and these Indians, that the military post had not been established in this valley. I look upon it as a misfortune. With a permanent military establishment in this vicinity, no difficulty would be experienced in collecting and controlling them. I will leave the infantry and sufficient cavalry for scouting purposes in this valley under command of Major Rinearson. I expect to return by the 10th of September, and will be governed by circumstances in future movements, of which I will keep you advised. It is doubtful whether we find any party of hostile Indians. I am inclined to the opinion the immigration to Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, with exception of that to Beaver Head, will be very small. It is time that a large portion of it had reached this point, yet very few, not over 100 wagons, have made their appearance. Notwithstanding that this season was much earlier than last, the immigration consists mostly of families in good health and well supplied. This valley is large enough for a populous county, covered with nutritious grass and well watered, and unquestionably with the advance of mineral discoveries will be thickly settled. Timber of good quality, though not very abundant, at convenient distance on the mountains. The health of the command is excellent, and the animals of the expedition first rate. With the latter we have had no trouble and met with no losses.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding Expedition.

General Benjamin Alvord,

            Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Headquarters Expedition against Snake Indians,

Camp No. 39, on Lost River, Idaho Ter., August 15, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of a letter this day received from Governor Doty, of Utah Territory. My command will be at the ferry above Fort Hall day after to-morrow. The distance from here is said to be fifty-two miles, forty of which is entirely destitute of water. I have received no tidings of Captain Crawford's command.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

[Inclosure.]

Box Elder, Utah Ter., July 30, 1863

Officer Comdg. the Troops of the United States at Fort Boise and in the Snake River Country:

            A treaty of peace was this day concluded at this place by General Connor and myself with the bands of the Shoshones, of which Pocatello, San Pitch, and Sagwich are the principal chiefs. This information is given that these Shoshones may not be injured when met by the troops, if they are at the time behaving themselves well. A treaty of peace has also been entered into at Fort Bridger with other bands of the Shoshones, and it is understood that all of that nation are at peace with the United States and are under a pledge to remain friendly.

JAMES DUANE DOTY,

Commander and Governor of Utah Territory.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 42, Near Fort Hall, Idaho Ter., August 24, 1863.

            General : I have the honor to inform you that my command arrived at this camp in good health and condition on the 18th instant, having marched a distance of 170 miles from our depot in Camas Prairie, which we left on the 9th instant. Our present camp is on the Port Neuf River, about four miles from Fort Hall and about eighteen miles below the ferry across Snake River, at the mouth of Blackfoot Creek. After leaving Camas Prairie and the adjacent valleys, many of which are of good size and present every appearance of fertility, there is no country offering any inducement for settlement or affording supplies of any kind for the Indians, the streams all sinking at the line of an immense lava field, which approaches the base of the mountains so closely in many places for miles that there is barely a passage for wagons. Water and grass, however, is sufficient, with exception of about sixty miles at this end of the march. The road is generally level and good, with exception of having occasionally to pass over points of the lava fields. I arrived at and crossed Snake River on the 17th, when I met Captain Crawford, of the overland escort, both reaching the ferry in the same hour. He had left his camp on Ross Fork, where the routes for the north and south sides of Snake River separate, and was undetermined as to which he would take. After consultation he concluded, on account of the forty-mile drive on the north side, and the report that one train of forty wagons had preceded him on the south side, to follow the latter route. He reports that there has been no difficulty or trouble of any nature with the emigration this season up to this point. There has been none from this west. He thinks he has the rear of the emigration, consisting of seventy or eighty wagons with him, having telegraphed from the last station to the rear some 200 miles, and getting information that none had passed that point since his party, and that none had been heard of in rear of that. With the exception of his party, and an occasional team transporting goods or produce from Salt Lake to Bannock City, in the Beaver Head country none have passed our camp or been heard of. Captain Crawford and party were in good health and generally well supplied, and stock in good condition. The emigrants have had good teams and are well supplied, though the emigration, as compared with that of last season is very small. About 200 wagons have passed over the route on the north side of the river, and probably 110, including Captain Crawford's party, on the south side. I will wait in this camp some days yet when I will return to Camas Prairie; from thence, as indicated heretofore I will cross the river with the cavalry at or near Salmon Falls and visit the headwaters of the streams entering from the south, meeting my supplies for return to Walla Walla at Owyhee or Malheur, the infantry returning by the same route we came to Fort Boise. At the falls and on these streams I am in hopes I may be able to satisfy the desire of my command and the ends of justice by inflicting punishment upon such Indians as have not been embraced in the treaties made by General Connor and Governor Doty. Our relations with all the Indians in this section are explained by the letter of Governor Doty, copy of which was transmitted heretofore, and the copy of one received from General Connor on my arrival at the ferry near my present camp, which goes forward by this express. The only Indians I have found are those alluded to by the latter, who appear very friendly and say that General Connor has promised to visit and treat with them. A good many of the leading men of the tribes treated with, now living farther east, have visited my camp, generally having letters of recommendation from Governor Doty. I have no doubt that from the rapid succession of settlements in and bordering upon all the country of which they have been heretofore almost the sole occupants, their desire for peace and disposition to behave themselves is sincere, but all experience shows that unless collected and settled in some named district, and some control exercised over them, robberies, &c., will be of annual recurrence. Small parties of our people, and, no doubt, sometimes aggravations and aggressions by these parties traveling in every direction, searching every stream and mountain for gold, other temptations, sharpened by the curtailment of hunting and fishing privileges (which our settlements naturally cause), which are not easy to be resisted. The south side of Camas Prairie would afford an excellent settlement for them. Camas abounds [with] an abundance of small fish in the streams, plenty of grass, and being adjacent to Snake River, affords opportunities of fishing below the great falls, above which salmon cannot pass. This would not interfere with settlements on the north side, which embraces the largest extent of good lands. All the Indians living northwest of Salt Lake visit the grounds in the spring and summer, putting up their winter supply of camas, and after the root season is over, resort to the falls and other points on the Snake to put up fish. All that were in the valley were collected by messengers east of Fort Hall three or four weeks in advance of our arrival. Necessity will beyond doubt compel them to keep up their visits to the camas grounds, and there is good reason to believe that, if permitted, the usual thefts and outrages would be the consequence, unless settled in the presence of some controlling power. The effect of failure to commit the usual robberies is easily detected among those here by the destitution of which they complain, and scarcity of powder, lead, &c. The great outrages committed heretofore by the frequenters of the country between Boise and Fort Hall causes some regret that accounts should be canceled so easily, but no doubt the punishment inflicted by General Connor, and the disposition of citizens with whom they have come in contact, have satisfied them that any other policy than their present would lead to extermination.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Brig. Gen. B. Alvord,

            Commanding District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 51, Camas Prairie, Idaho Ter., September 10, 1863.

            Sir : I have the honor to report the arrival of my command at this camp on the evening of the 5th instant in good health. Not hearing of any emigration, and accepting the opinion of Captain Crawford, of the overland escort, as well as the ferryman at Snake River, that the emigration had passed, I broke up camp on the Port Neuf, near Fort Hall, on the 27th ultimo, and moved for this camp by the same route over which we had gone out. Without the occurrence of anything worthy of mention we arrived as above stated. I have completed my arrangements for the march from this camp via Salmon Falls, sending the infantry. Captain O'Regan, to report to Major Lugenbeel and Captain Mason, to receive of Captain Hughes, acting commissary of subsistence at Fort Boise, such supplies as I may require for the march to Fort Walla Walla and to camp on the Malheur until I join him with the cavalry. Of the prospects of the expedition to the south side of Snake River anything said at present can only be conjecture. The same may be said as to the permanency of the peace or treaties made with the Snake or Shoshone Indians. It is evident, however, to my mind, that it cannot last when these Indians are allowed the privilege of their old resorts or of scattering generally over the country. We found on the waters of McArthur's River the body of an Indian killed about the 20^th August, as we inferred from the date of papers found near the body. Such acts will certainly lead to retaliation, and most likely unsuspecting parties be the sufferers. I learn also that a good many of Pocatello's people crossed over from Snake River to the waters of Lost River the day after the command crossed what is known as the desert. These will undoubtedly scatter over the country, as heretofore, according to interest or inclination, and cannot fail to come into communication with more or less of our people who are ignorant of existing treaties, or of the tribe to which they may belong. In fact, such knowledge by many is of little importance, and makes but little difference in their disposition to them. Pocatello was at our camp on the Port Neuf the day before we left. In acknowledging the receipt of General Connor's letter (copy of which has been forwarded) I remarked, "I hope to find on the south side of Snake River on my return to Fort Walla Walla the remaining portions of what are known as the Shoshone or Snake Indians, and to be able to inflict such punishment as their crimes deserve.'' Since my return to this camp I learn (unofficially) that an Indian agent, with military escort from Utah, had gone down on the south side of Snake River and returned to Utah by the same route. I know nothing of the object of his visit, but taking into consideration the fact that a number of white people are intimately associated with these Indians, and their facilities for getting information, I doubt whether I succeed in finding any body of Indians of sufficient force to warrant me in attacking them; and in the case of the small parties that I may be able to capture, or that may come to my camp, I cannot possibly obtain such evidence as would warrant me in hanging them. I will move early in the morning, and shall endeavor to keep you advised of my future movements and acts as often as possible.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition Against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 56, Salmon Falls Creek, Idaho Ter., September 23, 1863.

            Sir : Since my last of September 10 nothing of any importance has occurred. I arrived with the command at the Salmon Falls on the 15th and crossed to the south side on the 16th, establishing the present camp. All in good health. The few Indians we find here are miserably poor and almost destitute. Represent themselves as very friendly and ask permission to live undisturbed in the vicinity. I have represented to them that as long as they remained here without molesting in any manner our people who may travel through the country they might expect to live in peace, but on the contrary they could expect nothing but extermination; that I did not come out to make them presents or to buy a peace, but to make them feel and understand that they must not only behave themselves, but that in the event of bad faith or conduct they would be pursued and punished. There are about thirty or forty of them living within eight miles above and below the falls. Most of them were here last September while I was camped in the neighborhood. They are of course like all other Indians, and have probably been guilty of acts of violence and robbery, but neither during the last nor this season have I heard of any complaints against them. There is a small camp of the same party about thirty miles below on the north side of the river, which I will visit before leaving. I have been careful to impress upon the chief or head man of the party that himself and his people would be held responsible for any depredations that might be committed near the falls ; that if bad Indians came among them they must immediately give notice of the fact, or suffer for their acts. Scouting parties under Captain Drake and Lieutenant Apperson have returned, reporting no signs of Indians made the present season. Captain Drake went up the river above Rock Creek to the Great Falls some forty or fifty miles, and reports three falls within five miles; the first or upper, 180 feet; the second, three miles below, 198 feet (measured); the third (estimated), about 20 feet; all perpendicular, almost inaccessible on account of the walls of rock from 500 to 1,000 feet high inclosing the river. The captain succeeded in getting his animals to the river at the second or greatest fall. At the first he discovered signs of visitors ; at the second, none. Lieutenant Apperson with his party took a southwesterly direction with expectations of reaching headwaters of the Humboldt, but the scarcity of water compelled his return. He was thirty-odd hours without water for man or animals. I will leave the falls on the 25^th en route for the Owyhee, examining to the west all probable resorts for the Indians, and will, whether any are found or not, be able to form a tolerably correct opinion as to the number who have inhabited or visited the country heretofore. The travel from the mines to Salt Lake and the east continues in small parties without the least difficulty. I am inclined to the opinion that more men have gone east than came west by the Snake River roads.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 61, on Bruneau or Goose Creek, Idaho Ter., October 5, 1863.

            Sir: As indicated in my letter of 23d ultimo, the command moved from Salmon Falls Creek on the 25th and reached this camp on the 29^th, halting one day at the Three Islands, thirty miles below Salmon Falls. The road from the falls does not follow the river. I sent out parties while en route to the Three Islands to collect in all the Indians on either side of the river, or to attack in case of finding any considerable force of them. These were the Indians whom I mentioned in my last as intending to visit. About forty were collected. They live a family in a place, on either side of the river for a distance of thirty or forty miles; have no arms, and a very small number of Indian ponies; not an average of one to each family. As in the case of those at the falls they expressed great desire for peace and a willingness to do anything or go anywhere they might be directed. I had no evidence of guilt or of complaints and endeavored to impress the importance to them of not only not molesting our people themselves, but of giving, in the event of any being molested in their vicinity, such information as would lead to the punishment of the guilty. There are from 80 to 100 of this party, all Shoshones, and, aware of the treaties made at Salt Lake, scattered along the river from the great falls to the mouth of this stream, a distance of 100 miles. Something should be done with them, for if disposed to behave themselves they are liable to be punished for the depredations of the roaming and more enterprising bands that occupy the country to the south and west. Since we crossed the river on the 15th of September scouting parties have examined all the country within our reach. Captain Currey was detached on the 24th ultimo, supplied with ten days' rations, and directed to go south, following the west bank of Salmon Falls Creek to its source; thence northwest to the head waters of this stream, and to join the command at this place, where he arrived on the evening of the 4th, having made a circuit of some 200 miles, reaching the divide of the waters of Salmon Falls Creek and the Humboldt. Here it snowed two or three inches upon him. He then changed his course for the waters of this stream, which were successively crossed, heading in snow capped mountains, and came down it on the west side. Saw during the entire trip but four Indians. One family on Salmon Falls Creek, fifty miles from the falls, two other families on the waters of this stream, who were returning, as they said, from a visit to the Humboldt mines. He crossed and traveled many old and much-used trails, all the signs being made during the spring and early summer, and showing that the Indians were moving south and west, evidently getting into the country drained by John Day's, Malheur, and Owyhee Rivers. I had hoped to be able to travel down the latter, but the lateness of the season and the distance from Snake River to any point high enough up the Owyhee to render the trip of any service make it impossible. Previous to Captain Currey's return, Lieutenant Waymire, with a detachment of twenty men of Company D, while scouting, came upon a party of about twenty Indians some twenty miles up this stream, attacked and killed four and wounded several others, who with the remainder escaped on account of the character of the country, the camp being so inaccessible that the lieutenant was obliged to leave his horses a mile and a half distant. Many depredations have been committed on this stream, and the Indians who occupy it never fail to kill and steal whenever opportunity offers. From the sign in the upper part of the valley we would have found quite a force of them, but the creek had been visited about the 1^st of September by a party of miners who attacked a party encamped near the mouth. We found the remains of seven bodies. All the roaming Indians of the country visit the Bruneau more or less. It affords good grass for animals at a sufficient distance from the road to watch emigrants, and also the greatest abundance of salmon. In this respect it excels any stream entering Snake River that I know of. There is an old and much-traveled trail leaving Snake River near Fort Hall, called the Bannock Trail, which is used by roaming and hostile bands who wish to change the scene of their depredations and prevent suspicion as to what tribe they belong. It touches this river about seventy miles from the mouth. The command will resume the march in the morning for Fort Walla Walla, and reach that post probably about the 1st of November. It continues in excellent health.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Camp No. 67, on Owyhee River, October 11, 1863.

            Sir: I have the honor to report that my command arrived here yesterday in tolerably fair condition. Since leaving Bruneau the feed for animals has been very scarce, in consequence of which our stock is considerably reduced. I found Captain Mason encamped here with his company, in charge of additional supplies received from Fort Boise for my command. I shall remain here only days and again resume the march. Major Rinearson leaves here to day to assume command of Fort Boise. I have kept scouting parties out during the march from Bruueau River, but have succeeded in finding no Indians.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

Hdqrs. Expedition against the Snake Indians,

Fort Walla Walla, Wash. Ter., October 27, 1863.

            Sir: I have the honor to report the arrival of my command at this post on the 26th instant in good health and fair condition. Companies A and E, of my regiment, and H, of the First Washington Territory Infantry, took quarters at this post, and Company D, First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, went into camp near here, from whence I have ordered it to repair to The Dalles on the 29th instant. Myself and staff will leave here for Fort Dalles as soon as practicable.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. F. MAURY,

Colonel First Cavalry Oregon Volunteers, Commanding.

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General,

            Headquarters District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.

__________

[OR I-50-1, pp. 226-229]

MAY 5-30, 1863.—Expedition from Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., to Soda Springs, on the Bear River, Idaho Ter.

Report of Brig. Gen. P. Edward Connor, U. S. Army, commanding District of Utah.

Headquarters District of Utah,

Camp Douglas, Utah Ter., June 2, 1863.

            Colonel: I have the honor to report to the general commanding the department that on the 5th of May ultimo Company H, Third Infantry California Volunteers, Captain Black, left this post, pursuant to my orders, en route, via Box Elder, Bear River, Cache and Marsh Valleys, for a point at or near the great bend of Bear River known as Soda Springs, Idaho Ter., for the purpose of establishing a new post in that region for the protection of the overland emigration to Oregon, California, and the Bannock City mines. Accompanying this expedition and under its protection were a large number of persons heretofore resident of this Territory, seceders (under the name of Morrisites) from the Mormon Church. Many, if not all, of these having been reduced by the long-continued persecutions of the Mormons to the most abject poverty, have for some months past claimed and received the protection and assistance of the forces under my command. Prudential reasons, applying as well to this command as to the Morrisites themselves, rendered it advisable that they should be removed from the vicinity of this camp and beyond the evil influences and powers of the Mormon hierarchy. Regarding the expedition to Soda Springs, Idaho Ter., as presenting a favorable opportunity for this purpose, I ordered transportation to be provided for the most indigent and the distribution of provisions to the destitute, both en route and after arrival at the new post, until such time as by industry and well-directed effort these impoverished and persecuted people should be able to support themselves. Some of them were able to furnish their own teams and wagons. Most of them gathered up their household goods and provided themselves with a scanty supply of provisions for their sustenance. They numbered in all 100 souls, comprised of 53 families, 7 single men, and 4 widows. On the next day, May 6, I followed with Company H, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Lieutenant Clark commanding, and overtook the main train and infantry twenty-live miles north of this city. Proceeding thence by easy marches of from fifteen to eighteen miles per day along the eastern shore of Great Salt Lake, the entire command arrived at Brigham City (or Box Elder), sixty miles north. May 8. Here leaving the infantry and train to proceed by the old beaten road through Cache and Marsh Valleys and across the mountains, via Sublett's Cut-Off, I took the cavalry by a less frequented road, crossing Bear River at the lower ferry; thence up the plateau lying between the Malade and Bear Rivers, over the mountains dividing the waters of the Great Basin from those of Snake and Columbia Rivers; thence down the westerly side of Marsh Valley, crossing the Port Neuf River north of Sublett's Cut-Off, and down the east and right bank of that river to Snake River Ferry, a distance of 200 miles from this post, arriving at that point May 13. Our general course to the ferry was a little east of due north, passing through a series of valleys well watered and with light timber along the streams and on the mountain sides. The luxuriant vegetation at this early season of the year furnishing good grass for the animals, as well as the evidences of last year's growth, bespoke the fertility of the soil and its adaptation to agriculture. This remark more especially applies to Marsh Valley, lying due north of and adjoining Cache Valley, the latter being already thickly settled by Mormons, whose most northerly settlements extend within fifteen or twenty miles of the first-mentioned valley, the Bear River and a low ridge dividing the two valleys. Alter leaving Brigham City the command performed two night marches, the first of twelve and the second of thirty-five miles, as I had reason to believe that wandering bands of hostile savages, remnants of the Shoshones, engaged or connected with [those] who took part in the battle of Bear River (29th of January last), were in the neighborhood and might be surprised and punished for repeated and recent outrages on emigrants and settlers. In this expectation, however, I was disappointed, few, if any, traces of Indians being found, and thenceforward the command proceeded by daily marches. In Port Neuf Valley we came upon two lodges of Indians (Shoshones), who came unhesitatingly into camp with their squaws, satisfactorily answered all questions propounded, and gave evidence of friendly disposition toward the whites. Giving them to understand the determination of the Government to punish summarily all bad Indians, and receiving assurances of future good conduct on their part, I passed on without molesting these Indians. At Snake River Ferry were several large trains of emigrants bound north to the mines, and here recruiting their animals. Here also was an encampment of seventeen lodges of Shoshone (or Snake) Indians, numbering in all, including those who came in the next day, 250 or 300. They were well mounted and had grazing in the vicinity a considerable number of stock. These Indians were reliably represented to me as friendly and peaceable, and have been living at the ferry during the past winter. Being accompanied by Judge Doty, superintendent of Indian affairs for Utah, a conference was held with the Indians on the night of our arrival attended by the chiefs, old and young men, and squaws. Through an interpreter many questions were asked as to the locality of hostile chiefs and their bands, and the power of the Government duly impressed upon them. They were informed that the troops had been sent to this region to protect good Indians and whites, and equally to punish bad Indians and bad white men; that it was my determination to visit the most summary punishment, even to extermination, on Indians who committed depredation s upon the lives and property of emigrants or settlers. They were also assured that if bad whites trespassed upon their rights the report of the facts to me or my officers would be followed by punishment on the malefactors and a prompt remedy of all grievances to the extent of my power. After the customary smoking with the chiefs and a grand dance by men and squaws, I ordered the distribution among them of a small quantity of bacon, flour, and sugar. The conference was satisfactory, and the exhibition of the force at my command in that far-off region, as well as our rapid march through a country rarely traversed by whites, evidently had a good effect. I learned from them that Pocatello, the great chief of the hostile Shoshones, had gone a long distance off on the Lower Snake, probably in the vicinity of the Humboldt ; that Saquache [Sagwich ?], one of the leaders, who escaped wounded from the battle of Bear River, was somewhere in the south near the Mormon settlements of Cache Valley, and San Pitch still farther east. The region immediately about the Snake River at this ferry, which is about ten miles east of old Fort Hall, is a dry, barren sand plain, the road to the ferry being exceedingly heavy and difficult to traverse. Grass of tolerable quality and quantity is to be found several miles to the eastward on the Blackfoot Creek, which here empties into the Snake after running for perhaps thirty miles parallel with and not far from the river. The Snake here is a rapid stream 250 yards in width, and at this season 20 feet in depth, and is seldom or never fordable at this point. Beyond and to the northward the plain of sage brush and grease wood extends some fifty miles to a high range of mountains, three high buttes in the midst of the plain forming a prominent landmark. The distance from Soda Springs to this ferry, via the Bridger and Fort Hall emigrant road, is upward of seventy miles, pursuing a northwesterly course. Emigrants from the East via this road for the new mines, leaving the ferry travel up the Snake River in nearly an easterly direction about seventy miles to a point nearly due north of Soda Springs, thus following from Soda Springs along two sides of a triangle, either of which is seventy miles long, a distance of 140 miles. With the design of finding a practicable route for a wagon road through some pass in the mountains whereby a move direct course could be made, I sent Lieutenant Clark with a detachment of twenty-five men with five days' rations and orders to cross the Blackfoot near its source at the base of the foothills, and, proceeding up the Snake sixty or seventy-five miles, turn to the south, seek out such pass, and join the command at Soda Springs. This expedition was eminently successful, finding a good pass for a road along the base of the triangle mentioned above, striking Snake River seventy miles above and east of the present ferry. At this point a ferry has been established, and in a short time a good boat will be in running order. With the main body of the cavalry, train, &c., I left the Blackfoot about fifteen miles east of the ferry, and pursuing a southeasterly course across the divide by a good natural road, arrived at Soda Springs on the 17th of May, passing through large and fertile valleys lying along Ross Fork of Snake River and the North Branch of the Port Neuf. The infantry with the settlers not having yet arrived, detachments under Lieutenants Bradley and Ustick were dispatched north and south to explore the country and find a route for a direct and practicable wagon road to the settlements in Cache Valley and to report on the character of country explored.

            On the 20th Company H, Third Infantry, arrived, after a long and tedious trip, accompanied by their charge, the settlers for the new town. A suitable and eligible location was selected on the north bank of Bear River, near the great bend, and four miles east of where the Soda Springs Valley opens into Old Crater Valley, the latter some fifty miles in length and twenty in width. The sight was surveyed immediately east of the springs, as was also one mile square for a military reservation, adjoining on the east the town site, in latitude about 42 1/2 north and longitude 111 1/2 west. The water is good and abundant as well from the river as from the numerous mountain streams easily diverted for purposes of irrigation. Back of the town and north wood for fuel is abundant, while on the opposite side of the river timber of large growth suitable for building purposes is found at a distance of less than two miles. The soil, judging from the growth of the native grasses and the appearance of the ground, is susceptible of cultivation and the raising of valuable crops, the shortness of the season and the altitude of the place alone rendering this at all doubtful. The settlers were allotted building lots of fair size, and proceeded immediately to the erection of shelters for themselves and families. After remaining at this post for six days, establishing the infantry at the new post and looking to the present and immediate future wants of the settlers, on the 30th of May I returned to this post via the Mormon settlements in Cache Valley. The explorations above referred to satisfied me of the fertility of the country surrounding Soda Springs and of the entire practicability of making at small expense of labor a good wagon road from the northern settlements of Cache Valley, crossing Bear River at or near the battle-ground through a gap in the mountains, and thence northerly along the western bank of Bear River to Soda Springs. This road will be much more direct than the old road traversed by the infantry company, and the distance can be reduced from 200 miles, as at present, to about 150 or 160 miles. This road, connecting with the new road explored by Lieutenant Clark north from Soda Springs to Bannock City, will render the distance from the latter place to this point not more than 350 miles. The new road north from Soda Springs to Snake River will shorten the route of emigrants from the East via Fort Bridger not less than seventy miles, as well as present a route well watered and furnishing good feed for animals, with abundance of game. The expedition has traveled in a direct line about 500 miles, and has carefully explored a region of country over 1,000 miles in extent heretofore little known, and concerning which only the most vague and crude ideas were held. Before leaving Soda Springs I sent a detachment of twenty men over the mountains to pass through Bear Lake Valley in hopes of finding the band of Sagwich, supposed to be roaming in that section. The detachment was unsuccessful in its object, and it joined the command a few days after at Franklin, the most northerly settlement in Cache Valley, having thoroughly searched the region through which it passed. In this connection I may add that having occasion to send an empty train to Carson for quartermaster's stores, I furnished to 150 Morrisites transportation to that point, and they have already safely arrived at their destination.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army,

                        Department of the Pacific, San Francisco, Cal.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 427]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., May 6, 1863.

Brig. Gen. P. E. Connor, U. S. Volunteers,

            Commanding District of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah Ter.:

            Sir : In reply to your letter of the 22d ultimo, relative to raising troops from emigrants, &c., the department commander directs that if the people living in Utah from whom you expect to raise one or more companies will enlist for three years or during the war, you can proceed to their organization into a company of infantry, furnishing the necessary rolls, &c., to Lieutenant-Colonel Ringgold, commissary of musters.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 428-430]

Headquarters District of Oregon,

Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter., May 9, 1863.

Brig. Gen. P. Edward Connor, U. S. Volunteers,

            Commanding District of Utah, near Salt Lake City, Utah:

            General: It will be proper for you to know what movements of troops are contemplated by me in the Snake country the coming summer. I shall at all events establish a post at Fort Boise. Col. R. F. Maury, First Oregon Cavalry, with three companies of that regiment is now encamped at Fort Lapwai, on the Nez Perce Reservation. That reservation having for the past two years been overrun by the gold diggers, in contempt of the treaty securing to the Nez Perces said reservation, a council has been invited to assemble there to make a new treaty and indemnify that tribe (which has always heretofore been so friendly to the whites) for its losses. But there is a disaffected party in the tribe. The movements of Col. R. F. Maury depend on events in that quarter. If matters work favorably (as I trust they will) Colonel Maury in June will proceed to Fort Boise, and two companies of infantry being added to his command, he will proceed eastward from that post and endeavor lo meet the head of the emigration from the States at the crossing of the Snake River above Fort Hall. Captain Crawford with an emigrant escort party of 100 men from Omaha, Nebr., promised to bring the head of the emigration there from the 10th to the 20th of August. I expect by that movement Colonel Maury will be able to strike an efficient blow at the Snakes, and protect the emigration which should return on his trail by the road north of Snake River. Private letters say that parties from Denver, Pike's Peak, and Salt Lake are going across to Boise now in early spring. 1 fear they will have to fight their way. If you are able to protect the emigrants or others who take the road south of Snake River by an escort to proceed as far as Salmon Falls, it will be a very desirable thing. As the main emigration and Colonel Maury will take the north road above described, which crosses Snake River above Fort Hall, small parties on the old road on the south side of Snake River will stand in greater danger than ever. All these facts I bring to your attention for your information. I know nothing of your orders or plans. I appreciate highly the signal blow your gallant troops gave last winter to the Indians on Bear River, in Washington Territory, and know that to the extent of your force you will take good care of the Snakes in your vicinity.

            I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

BENJ. ALVORD,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

Sacramento, Cal., May 11, 1863— 11 a. m.

General L. Thomas,

            Adjutant- General U. S. Army :

            Volunteer troops from California cannot cross the mountains and reach Salt Lake before the latter part of July. In the meantime, if practicable. I would recommend that re-enforcements be thrown forward immediately from the Missouri frontier.

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., May 11, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant- General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. :

            General: I have the honor to transmit herewith a communication addressed to my headquarters by Brig. Gen. P. Edward Connor, commanding the District of Utah, dated on the 28th ultimo.[8] I am doing all that is in my power to re enforce General Connor. The battalion of the Third Infantry will march from Sacramento in a few days, and I am advised by the acting (Governor of Nevada Territory that he is using the most strenuous exertions to comply with my requisition on him for two companies of cavalry and two of infantry. I think that with prudence and good management we need apprehend no immediate disturbance in Utah, but we should have there a military force strong enough to look down all opposition and maintain the supremacy of our laws and institutions. 1 telegraphed you to-day recommending, if it were possible, that re-enforcements for Connor be sent at once from the adjoining department east of him. Under no circumstances could I for a moment entertain the idea of recommending the withdrawal of our troops from Utah. At whatever cost, the great highway connecting the Eastern States with the Pacific must be kept open and under the control of the United States.

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., May 11, 1863.

His Excellency S. S. Harding,

            Governor of Utah Territory, Great Salt Lake City, Utah Ter. :

            Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency's communication of the 27th ultimo, for which  have to thank you. The condition of affairs in Utah has for a long time past received my most serious consideration. I have been kept fully informed on all the topics embraced in Your Excellency's letter by Brigadier-General Connor, and I am now straining every nerve to throw forward re-enforcements. A battalion of the Third Infantry, now at Sacramento, will march in a few days, taking with it two 6-pounder brass guns, one 12 pounder field howitzer, and one 12-pounder mountain howitzer, with an ample supply of ammunition. The company of Second Cavalry which was at Fort Churchill is temporarily engaged in the Owen's Valley district. It will be thrown forward toward Utah at an early day. The acting Governor of Nevada Territory is making strenuous exertions to comply with my requisition for two companies of cavalry and two of infantry, with a fair prospect of success. When raised it is designed to move them promptly to Salt Lake. I have telegraphed to the Adjutant-General of the Army requesting, if it is possible to do so, that re-enforcements for General Connor be promptly advanced from the military department east of you. I can assure you. Governor, that I am fully sensible to the importance of maintaining the supremacy of our laws and institutions in the Territory of Utah, and can only regret that the force at my disposal is so inadequate to meet the emergency.

            With great respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's obedient servant.

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army. Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 432]

Special Orders,            )                                               Camp Independence,

No. 10.                        )                                               Owen's River Valley, May 13, 1863.

*******

             IV. It is strictly prohibited to put to death, or cause to be put to death, without due military process, any Indian who may deliver himself up to any officer or soldier, or those taken without arms, but such information as such parties may be able to give will be carefully obtained, and the officer or officers then in command will make such use of such information as in his or their judgment may be deemed most advantageous to the service.

*******

            By order:

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 446]

General Orders,           )                                                                       Big Pine Creek,

No. 4.                          )                                   Owen's River Valley. May 19, 1863.

            I.  Hostilities against the Indians of this valley are hereby suspended until further orders.

*******

            By order:

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 448-449]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific;

San Francisco, Cal., May 20, 1863.

Capt. M. A. McLaughlin,

            Second Cavalry California Volunteers,

                        Comdg. Camp Independence, Owen's River Valley, Cal.:

            Sir: It is desirable that Captain Brown's company of cavalry should commence its march to Salt Lake at the earliest day possible. In consideration, however, of the reasons set forth in your letter of the 6^th instant, the general commanding instructs me to say that its movement in the direction indicated above will be delayed for the present. This delay should not extend beyond the 20th of June next.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 450-451]

Special Orders,            )                                                           Camp Independence,

No. 12.                        )                                               Owen's River Valley, May 21, 1863.

            I. Capt. A. Brown, Company L, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, with his company, is hereby ordered to report at this post as soon as practicable.

            II. Capt. H. Noble, Company E, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, with his company, is hereby ordered to report at this post as soon as practicable.

            By order:

M. A. McLAUGHLIN,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 453]

Special Orders,            )                                                                                   Headquarters,

No. 1.                          )                                   Camp Connor, Idaho Ter., May 23, 1863.

            Pursuant to orders from district headquarters, a military post is hereby established at this point, to be known as Camp Connor. The reservation pertaining to this post is as follows : Commencing on the right bank of Bear River, on the east line of the town of Soda Springs, and thence running north 24 1/2 degrees east one mile; thence east 24 1/2 degrees south one mile; thence south 24 1/2 degrees west one mile, more or less, to the right bank of Bear River; thence following the meanderings of said river to the place of beginning.

            By order:

D. BLACK,

Captain, Third California Volunteer Infantry, Comdg. Post.

__________

Special Orders,            )                                               Hdqrs. Department of the Pacific,

No. 126.                      )                                               San Francisco, Cal., May 25, 1863.

            1. Maj. John M. O'Neill, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, will without delay proceed to Camp Douglas, near Salt Lake, and report for duty to the commanding officer thereof. The quartermaster's department will furnish Major O'Neill transportation in kind from this city to Salt Lake.

            2. Company C (West's), Fourth Infantry California Volunteers, will proceed to Camp Drum on the steamer leaving this port on Thursday next, the 28th instant. The quartermaster's department will furnish the necessary transportation from Benicia to New San Pedro.

            By order of Brigadier-General Wright:

RICHD. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 468]

Camp Douglas, May 31, 1863.

(Received 8:10 p. m.)

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum :

            I arrived last evening from the north. All quiet.

P. E. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 470]

Camp Douglas, June 2, 1863.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum:

            Indians are suing for peace. I leave for Bridger to-day to meet 500 of them. My policy will win.

P. E. CONNOR,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Army.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 473]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., June 6, 1863.

Capt. M. A. McLaughlin,

            Second Cavalry California Volunteers,

                        Comdg. Camp Independence, Owen's River Valley, Cal.:

            Sir: The department commander has read with interest and satisfaction your report of operations in the Owen's River Valley, and desires me to express his admiration of the energy, perseverance, and good conduct displayed by yourself and your command throughout the whole campaign. Mr. Wentworth, superintendent of Indian affairs for the southern district, has been requested to make immediate provision for the Indians who have come in, and if possible locate them where there will be few inducements to meddle with the whites.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

Camp Douglas, June 7, 1863 – 8 p. m.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum

            Just returned from Bridger.  Made treaty with 650 Snake Indians.  They delivered 150 stolen horses to me.

P. E. CONNOR

Brigadier- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 478]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, June 9, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant- General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General: The active and energetic campaigns which have been made against the Indians in the Owen's River Valley, Cal., and in the District of Utah during the past winter and spring have had the most happy results in bringing those Indians to sue for peace. A very large number of Indians have been killed, and the great mass of the survivors have laid down their arms and met the commanders in those districts in council. General Connor returned to Camp Douglas, Salt Lake, on the 7th instant, from Fort Bridger, where he had made a treaty with 650 Snake Indians, who delivered to him 150 stolen horses.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 479]

Headquarters District of Utah,

Salt Lake City, Utah Ter., June 10, 1863.

Brig. Gen. Benjamin Alvord, U. S. Volunteers,

            Comdg. District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.:

            General: Your communication of the 8th ultimo was duly received while en route to Snake River. I acted upon your suggestion and posted a company of infantry at Soda Springs, Big Bend of Bear River, in Idaho Territory, and a detachment of ten men on Snake River at a new ferry lately established, about sixty miles above Fort Hall. While at the lower ferry, in the vicinity of Fort Hall, I met about 200 Snake Indians, with whom I had a talk. They are friendly, and will remain so. Those also in the vicinity of and on the road to Bannock City are friendly. I had a talk with 700 Snake Indians at Fort Bridger last week. They say they are tired of fighting and want to be at peace. They gave me up 150 horses and mules which they had stolen. The fight of last winter is telling on them. There are two small bands at large yet, who are hostile. They number about 100 men. Troops are now in pursuit of them, and I hope soon to destroy them. I have no fears for the safety of the emigration to the Bannock Mines. How it will be to the Boise Mines I am unable to say. I will, as you have suggested, take care of the emigration on the south side of Snake River as far west as longitude 114. The Ute Indians, with whom Colonel Evans had a fight at Spanish Fork this spring, have sent word that they desire to make peace with me. On the whole, I consider the Indian troubles in my district very near at an end.

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

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 480]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal, June 11, 1863.

Capt. M. A. McLaughlin,

            Second Cavalry California Volunteers,

                        Comdg. Camp Independence, Owen's River Valley, Cal.:

            Sir: The department commander desires you, as soon after the receipt of this communication as practicable, to take all the Indians who have come in to the Tejon Reservation and turn them over to the representative of the Indian Department on that reservation. The Indians will be fed meat and barley while at your post and en route to the reservation. After their arrival at the latter they will be provided for by the Indian Department.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

San Francisco, June 11, 1863.

Maj. Charles McDermit,

            Fort Churchill:

            Brown's company will move to the support of General Connor as soon after its arrival as possible. Report its departure by telegraph to Connor. Hold Company A in readiness to leave for Salt Lake.

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 481]

Headquarters District of Utah,

Camp Douglas, June 11, 1863—2.15 p. m.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant- General:

            A powerful tribe (the Southern Utes) have commenced hostilities; killed driver and employes of mail company twenty-five miles west of here yesterday. Rumor says 1,600 of them in Mormon settlements south on way to attack me and destroy overland mail. The Snake Indians, with the exception of two small bands, are peaceable and have given up stolen property. Goshutes still troublesome. My force much scattered; should be doubled at once. I am surrounded by enemies, white and red.

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding District.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, Cal., June 12, 1863.

Maj. John M. O'Neill,

            Second Cavalry California Volunteers, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Sir: The general commanding the department directs that you will at once proceed to join General Connor's command at or in the vicinity of Salt Lake City. As there may be some difficulty in proceeding alone over the overland route, you will join and take command of the troops under Captain Brown, Second Cavalry, which will probably leave Fort Churchill to-day.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

Headquarters Department of Utah,

Camp Douglas, Salt Lake, June 12, 1863.

Maj. Gen. H. W. Halleck,

            General-in- Chief:

            A powerful tribe, the Southern Utes, are threatening the overland stage, east and west. My forces are inadequate to its protection. Have received no re-enforcements from California. Could a regiment of cavalry be sent from Denver?

P. EDWARD CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 484]

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, June 14, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General: I have to report the departure from Camp Union, Sacramento, on the 10th instant, of two companies of Third Infantry California Volunteers and a detachment of the Second Cavalry California Volunteers for Salt Lake, Utah, the whole under command of Lieut. Col. J. B. Moore, Third Infantry. I sent with this command two brass 6-pounder guns, one 12-pounder howitzer, and one 12-pounder mountain howitzer. I inspected the command previous to its marching and found it in admirable order and well prepared to move rapidly along the overland mail line to its destination. The Indian hostilities in the Owen's River Valley, Tulare County, Cal., have terminated. All the Indians in that quarter—probably about 1,000—I have ordered taken to the Tejon Reservation, where the superintendent of Indian affairs will take charge of them.

            The company of the Second Cavalry lately with the troops in Owen's River Valley has returned to Fort Churchill, and will immediately be put on the march for Salt Lake. One of the companies called for from Nevada Territory is ready to be mustered in, and will be promptly advanced on the mail line. The command for Fort Boise left Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter., on the 1st instant, under the command of Maj. P. Lugenbeel, U. S. Army, proceeding as far as old Fort Walla Walla by steam, which point would be reached on the 3d, and thence by land to Boise. The command at Jacksonville, Oreg., is nearly ready to move, under Lieutenant-Colonel Drew, of the Oregon cavalry, to establish a post at the Klamath Lakes. I have ordered the post to be built for two companies of cavalry.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-1, p. 229]

JUNE 20, 1863.—Skirmish near Government Springs, Utah Ter.

Report of Brig. Gen. P. Edward Connor, U. S. Army, commanding District of Utah.

Salt Lake City, June 22, 1863.

            Expedition from Bridger under Captain Lewis captured fifty of San Pitch's band. Captain Smith killed ten Indians Saturday last near Government Springs. Utes collecting in settlements south in large numbers, and threatening destruction to soldiers and overland mail. Have only sixty men for duty at Camp Douglas.

P. E. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, Commanding District.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

[OR I-50-1, p. 230]

JUNE 23, 1863.—Affair at Cañon Station, Nev. Ter.

Report of Maj. Patrick A. Gallagher, Third California Infantry.

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., June 28, 1863.

            Captain : Inclosed I have the honor to transmit corrected proceedings of garrison court. I would also inform the general commanding that on yesterday Assistant Surgeon Kirkpatrick returned to this post from Cañon Station with Private Abbott, of Company E, who was wounded at that place on the 23d instant. I learn from Abbott that on the morning of the 23d Corporal Hervey and himself left the station as a guard to the water cart. After they had left Privates Burgher and Elliott also left to go hunting, leaving the station unprotected, something which has not been done since the troops have been guarding the road. Between 11 and 12 a. in. as the water cart was returning they were fired upon by Indians, who had made a screen of sage bushes, and Corporal Hervey was shot dead. Private Abbott, although wounded by a ball through his neck, jumped out of the wagon and seized Hervey's gun and pistol, and returned the fire, as also did the driver of the water cart. He is confident that they hit three or four of them. This happened within about 500 yards of the station. They immediately drove there, thinking if the balance of the guard was there they might get some of the Indians, but found them gone. Soon after they saw two or three Indians going up the mountain south of the station, one of whom had a bright gun. Although they were upward of 1,200 yards off they fired at them, and from their actions immediately after think that one of them was hit. An express was immediately sent to Deep Creek, and eight of the cavalry left for the scene at once. On their arrival they found the body of Elliott with thirty-five ball holes in it, horribly mutilated, but not scalped. Soon after they found the body of Burgher with four ball holes in it, and in about the same condition as Elliott's. The bodies of all three were taken to Deep Creek and there buried under the supervision of Lieutenant Hosmer, who left his post immediately on the receipt of the news. The Indians succeeded in getting Burgher's musket and fifty rounds of ammunition; also a double-barreled shotgun and a small quantity of powder and shot from Elliott. I have ordered Lieutenant Quinn to scout in that vicinity, and if possible discover their place of concealment. I have also increased the infantry force along the road, sending every man that can be spared from the garrison. I feel perfectly satisfied that if Burgher and Elliott had not disobeyed orders and left the station they would not have been killed, but on the contrary would have had an opportunity of rendering a good account of some of the Indians, as they were within range of their pieces, and there were seventeen counted.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third Infantry California Volunteers, Commanding Post.

Capt. C. H. Hempstead,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Utah.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 491-495]

Camp Independence,

Owen's River Valley, Cal., June 24, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant- General, San Francisco:

            Colonel: I would most respectfully state that while at Camp Babbitt, near Visalia, Cal., I had frequently urged the officers there in command to represent to the general commanding the department the necessity of a military force at or near Fort Tejon. Since my arrival in Owen's River Valley I have examined the matter more thoroughly and feel convinced that those who are acquainted with its geographical position and the topography of the surrounding country will not hesitate to state that it is the key to both Owen's and Tulare Valleys. Had it been so occupied last winter the outlaws and rebels would not have dared to congregate at Tulare Lake, from whence they issued to commit their depredations upon the defenseless Union citizens who inhabit that portion of the country, for the road through to the south would have been shut up to them, and had they passed by Keysville and Walker's Pass they would have been either cut off or forced into a pathless desert. The Indians, too, finding themselves between two fires, would not have been so apt to have renewed hostilities. Forage and escorts could there be procured for trains passing from San Pedro to Stockton, or from San Pedro to Owen's Valley. It is almost a matter of impossibility for any force from Little Lake, Owen's Valley, to pass the desert to Elizabeth Lake without ample forage, as there is nothing upon the route upon which animals can subsist, and, being almost always without barley in Owen's Valley, valuable trains might become an easy prey to hostile bands of Indians or to worse hordes of desperadoes who infest that section of country. I sincerely hope that the suggestions which I have had the honor to make will not be looked upon by the general commanding the department in the light of one wishing to intrude upon his precious time, or who, from the many acts of kindness of which he has been the grateful recipient, would arrogate to himself even the thought that his opinion had any right to any consideration outside of the military routine in which he is engaged.

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

M. A. McLaughlin,

Captain, Second Cavalry California Volunteers, Commanding.

__________

Headquarters District of Utah,

Great Salt Lake City, Utah Ter., June 24, 1863.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum,

            Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Colonel: In view of the isolated condition of this district and the tardiness with which re-enforcements reach me, considering the advance already made in the season during which it is possible (or troops to reach these headquarters, I deem it my duty no longer to delay presenting most respectfully the following statements for the information of the President of the United States, through the commanding general, relative to affairs in this Territory. In former communications the construction of Utah society and its peculiar polity, partaking of all the characteristics of the old patriarchal governments and the worst features of a fanatical and unlimited despotism, have perhaps been sufficiently set forth. I may be permitted, however, to add that the authority of the Church is here recognized as supreme— above and beyond constitutions, laws, or regulations of the civil authorities. Not merely is the Church government here, as compared with the civil, a wheel within a wheel, subordinate to the right powers of the President and Congress, but in its practical workings is superior to and transcends all authority emanating from whatever source. The world has never seen a despotism so complete, so limitless, so transcendent, controlling not alone the outward and internal civil polity of the Territory, but entering into all the details of everyday life and the minutiae of the domestic economy of each individual, as is exhibited in the construction of the Mormon Church. Of that church Brigham Young is the acknowledged head and recognized despot. Upon his will alone depend as well the acts of public officials as the coarse, temper, and feeling of the humblest member of his flock. Fanaticism can go no further than it has in this case, and from one end of the Territory to the other the will of Brigham Young is supreme, made known and manifested through his apostles, bishops, and subordinates resident in towns, villages, wards, and hamlets. Whether in all instances this tremendous authority is upheld by a species of devout religious fanaticism or enforced by fear in many—the majority of—cases upon those who would otherwise break from their thraldom, it is unnecessary now to express an opinion, but that it exists cannot be doubted and is not denied. The consequence is that the rightful authority of the United States is exercised only by sufferance, and peace and a doubtful quiet maintained only upon the slender thread of one man's will or whim. I cannot but recognize the glaring fact that in dealing with this people in the most trivial, as in the most momentous matters, I am but dealing with their supreme monarch; that it is in his power at any time to lay an embargo upon his entire people against the sale of any article of sustenance or use to my command; that no act word or deed of any Gentile escapes his ear, through the medium of an extended and truckling system of espionage; that no secret military movement against hostile Indians can be undertaken without the latter becoming possessed of the number, time of starting, direction, equipments, &c. Such a state of affairs would be dangerous even were the head of this system actuated by kindly feelings and a humane disposition, but it becomes intolerable when on every hand are found striking and undeniable evidences of hatred to the Government, disloyalty to the Union, and affiliation and sympathy with treason in the East and savage massacre and plunder all around and about us. It is difficult to restrain indignation when the harangues of the prophet and his apostles each Sabbath fill the crowded synagogue with flippant expressions of disloyalty and vulgar threats against the Union and those brave hearts yielding up their lives upon the battle-field; when each reverse to our arms is, with mock tears and sneering lamentations, pointed at as evidence of the truth of Joe Smith's prophecies and Brigham's weekly threats, and each demonstration of traitors, tortured into magnificent victories, is held up to the admiration of the gaping throng as abundant proof of the impotence of Government and the sure destruction of the Constitution and. Union. Yet all this must be endured by those who visit the tabernacle of the Saints on almost every Sabbath of the year. Were the exhibitions of hatred to the Government and its ministers, civil and military, confined to these vapid word discharges of long-cultivated spleen, it might be endured in silence, but such is not the case. The whole people are being thus educated (if indeed the term education may be applied in any sense to a community so plunged in the depth of ignorance and fanaticism). The whole people are being educated into the most complete hatred of the Government and the institutions under which we live, the two cardinal points in Mormon religion being contempt and hatred to the Union and faith in and subservience to the head of the Church. With no regard for the South, and in fact probably a repugnance to slavery and Southern institutions, the rebel cause appeals to and receives their hearty sympathy merely because it is regarded as the appointed means of destroying the Government. How far the ramifications of the Mormon Church as a religion extend among the Indian tribes within and adjoining this Territory I am unable to say, but that Brigham Young has an immense influence over the savages and maintains frequent and intimate relations with them is past a doubt. I have the strongest reasons, based on many proofs, for believing that the recent raid on the Overland Mail Line, the massacre of drivers, and the stealing of stock were incited by white Mormons, and not improbably under the direct orders of the head of the Church. But whether this be strictly the fact or not, it is beyond the possibility of doubt that the Indians met with aid, food, and encouragement from nearly the whole Mormon people.

            It is in proof before me that the savages have been collecting for weeks in and near the southern Mormon settlements; that they passed through a dozen towns in small parties and large bands coming northward, avowing their purpose to slaughter and steal, to kill soldiers and break up the Overland Mail Line; that they were fed from place to place by the people and drew supplies from the public granaries; that in some instances they sent their couriers ahead to the next town to notify the bishop that they were coming, and to have prepared a beef for them, and that their demands were complied with and no intimation sent to these headquarters of the impending slaughter. Not only did they boast that they would kill emigrants and break up the overland mail, but that they were gathering in sufficient force to attack Camp Douglas and drive the military from the country. I have reason also to believe that Brigham Young himself received frequent couriers as well from his bishops as from the Indian chiefs, asking for advice and orders. What these latter were of course I am unable to judge, save from his character and the results which followed. It is in proof before me from reliable witnesses that the Indians, after the recent massacre on the overland road, retired through the Mormon towns rehearsing their exploits and exhibiting the reeking scalps they had taken from their murdered victims. It is likewise significant of Mormon complicity that the savages seldom or never molest the Mormons or steal their stock, but pass through their settlements and by their defenseless ranches content with the aid the Mormons volunteer to give them. It cannot be said in explanation of allowing the Indians to proceed on their bloody mission that the latter were too powerful to be attacked or resisted, for it is notorious that the hostile savages passed along in bands of a dozen or twenty through settlements of 500 or 600 inhabitants. The only explanation of this course on their part ever given is that the policy of the Mormons is and ever has been to feed rather than fight the Indians, and that to interfere with them when bound on their raids north would provoke massacre and pillage on the defenseless heads of isolated Mormon ranchmen and wood choppers in the cañons. But even this furnishes no excuse, however flimsy, why no intimation was ever sent to these headquarters of Indian designs openly avowed and notorious in their several communities. In other communities where free will and independent action are at all tolerated on the part of individuals these facts might not be so significant, but might be laid at the door of a few evil-disposed and bad-hearted men ; but here, where not only the actions, but the very thoughts, feelings, sentiments, and words of the entire people are under the supreme control and absolute dictation of the head of the Church, it is hard to resist the conclusion that he is responsible for the acts of his ignorant and deluded followers. As in some degree explanatory of this insidious and damnable course on the part of Brigham Young, I may state that it is understood here that he has offered to protect the Overland Mail Line against the Indians for a given sum of money, on condition that the military shall be withdrawn; and to the end that the impotence of the latter may be made manifest, these brutal raids are incited along unprotected parts of the line, and at times when danger is not expected. That the presence of the military in this Territory is unwelcome to the hierarchy of Brigham Young cannot be doubted. It has to a great extent abridged his powers, limited his dictation, and secured protection to those whose persecutions cried aloud to Heaven. It has released from deepest bondage and from pillage, torture, and organized robbery hundreds of poor deluded men and women enticed hither by promises and allurements, and in many ways has tended to ameliorate the condition of his serfs and to that extent has shorn the chief of his power. Hence his desire by propositions such as that referred to, to have my command withdrawn. I may say that I have little doubt that Brigham Young could cause the Indians to desist from attacks on the Overland Mail Line and were the protection of that institution the only or the main object of Government in establishing troops in this Territory, it might be well to accede to his wishes. But I cannot forget that unsuspecting emigrants with their wives and little ones, and all their earthly goods seeking a peaceful home in the far West, would be entirely at the mercy of this man and his savage and plundering red allies. What that mercy was before the troops lined the emigrant road the sad record of the past too plainly tells, and the solitary graves and bleaching bones from the Rocky Mountains to the Carson and Humboldt partially reveal. The tales of horror, of bloodshed, and plunder one can hear, and the evidence of which he can see throughout all this desolate region awaken him to the fact that the great overland mail, important as it is to the East and to the West, cannot be regarded as the only care of the Government, or its protection and security the only demand on humanity.

            In view of the foregoing facts, presented without conscious prejudice or other than just feeling against glaring iniquity, I beg leave most respectfully and earnestly to impress upon the commanding general that the force under my command is entirely inadequate to the protection of the overland mail and telegraph lines and the several emigrant roads passing through the regions of hostile Indians within this district ; much less is it able in addition to cope with forcible resistance to the laws or the outbreak of armed treason liable to occur on any serious reverse to our arms in the East, or at any attempt on the part of the authorities to enforce laws conflicting with the tenets of the Mormon Church or inimical to any of their practices. The season will soon have passed when it will be practicable for re-enforcements to reach me, and with the winter will come increased activity on the part of the Indians, and it may be more open and rebellious conduct on the part of the Mormons. I have purposely refrained from any expression of opinion on the tenets of the religion of this most singular people, or their open and flagrant violations of the civil law for the suppression of polygamy, leaving these matters where they properly belong, with civil departments of Government.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 495-497]

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., June 26, 1863.

Capt. C. H. Hempstead,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Utah:

            CAPTAIN: I have the honor to inform the general commanding that on yesterday morning I stopped a train of emigrants passing through this valley, comprising sixty men, the most of whom, I was informed, were secessionists. After a close and thorough investigation I found that but eleven of them had been in Price's army in Missouri, and the balance very lukewarm toward the Government, the majority of whom were leaving the Eastern States to avoid the conscription. I learned enough of their action toward our men at Big Sandy and other places to have made it a very serious matter for them could I have fastened it upon them or any one of them, but I could not get the proof. The only one upon whom I could prove anything serious was a young man named John Dimmitt, from Ralls County, Mo., who, while traveling along the Platte River pulled up a small American flag which had been planted on the bank of the river by some other emigrants, threw it under his feet, and trampled on it. This was sworn to by two men in the train, whose depositions I have. I have him in close confinement, and await the orders of the district commander as to what disposition shall be made of him. I found that all those who had been in the rebel army had either been exchanged or paroled, and had taken the oath of allegiance, and some had given bonds. Before releasing them I had them all drawn up in line beneath our flag and administered the oath to them in presence of the whole command. They were all badly frightened, evidently thinking that they had got themselves into a bad situation, and I think it will be a lesson to them that they will not soon forget.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third Infantry California Volunteers, Commanding Post.

__________

Headquarters Department of the Pacific,

San Francisco, June 27, 1863.

Brig. Gen. L. Thomas,

            Adjutant- General U. S Army, Washington, D. C.:

            General: The command of infantry and cavalry under Lieutenant- Colonel Moore, reported in my communication to you under date of 14th instant, reached Port Churchill on the 25th, and after a brief halt will advance toward Salt Lake. The cavalry company recently stationed at Fort Churchill will be thrown in advance of Moore's command to Salt Lake, affording protection to the overland mail. One full company of Nevada Territory cavalry has been mustered into service at Fort Churchill, and another company will complete its organization at an early day. Brigadier-General Connor went to Fort Bridger in the early part of this month and was met by a large band of Shoshone Indians, with whom he made a treaty of peace and friendship ; they surrendered a large number of horses and other property stolen or captured from white people. Notwithstanding the oft-repeated attacks on the overland stages by the Indians, yet it is believed that no serious interruption can take place. It requires great vigilance and activity to afford protection on a line of 600 or 800 miles in length, but it must be done, and the mail shall pass safely, even if I have to send a cavalry escort with every stage.

            My advices from Brigadier-General Alvord are as late as the 14^th instant; everything was progressing well in the District of Oregon. A satisfactory treaty has been made with the great Nez Perce tribe of Indians, and the troops under Colonel Maury, of the Oregon cavalry had left Fort Lapwai for the summer campaign on the Upper Snake River to afford protection to the emigrants. The command under Major Lugenbeel left Fort Walla Walla on the 8th instant for Fort Boise to establish a permanent post in that quarter. Inclosed herewith is the report of Brigadier-General Connor of his expedition to Soda Springs, Idaho Ter., and the establishment of a post for the protection of emigrants and mail.[9] The report contains much valuable information as to the character and resources of the country traversed.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. WRIGHT,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Army, Commanding.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 497-498]

Camp Babbitt,

Near Visalia, Tulare County, Cal., June 27, 1863.

Col. R. C. Drum,

            Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the Pacific, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Sir : I have the honor to represent that unofficial information has come to my knowledge of the disloyal practices of the people of the town of Millerton, the county seat of Fresno County, sixty miles north of this camp. I am informed that there is not a loyal man in the place. I am also informed by reliable Union men that upon the receipt of the news that the rebel army under Lee had crossed into Maryland and Pennsylvania they celebrated the occasion by a public demonstration, in which all joined (of both sexes), by firing a Confederate salute and other demonstrations expressive of their joy at the defeat of the Federal arms (or what they term a Federal defeat) and the successes of Jeff. Davis, cheering for them and groaning for the United States Government and its officers. They went so far as to use violence to a young man (who is loyal) who happened to be there from King's River on business. They also have been in the habit of insulting while on their way to and from San Francisco (they being compelled to stop at this place over night) by disloyal acts and conversation. This county is the resort of bad men. The people boast that they have neither a common school nor a church in the county. What makes the case still more aggravating is the fact of the majority of the people in the town of Millerton being Eastern people. In view of these facts, I would suggest for the general commanding the propriety of reoccupying Fort Miller with a company or detachment of cavalry. The fort is now occupied by the families of disloyal men, with one exception, using the buildings as dwelling houses. In my opinion the presence of a cavalry company would have a moral influence upon their conduct toward the Government and its officers. I would also in this connection suggest the propriety of reoccupying Fort Tejon with a company of cavalry. It is also located in the midst of a disloyal people; also near hostile Indians, they having recently robbed and murdered several persons in Kelso Cañon and in Kern River Valley, which is within supporting distance of Fort Tejon. Had this post been occupied last spring it could have operated against the Indians on Upper Kern River and Owen's River much easier than from this post. It would also have prevented the organization of the band of robbers and thieves who left this and adjoining counties after stealing many thousand dollars' worth of property from Union men while passing through the country, and having in their possession several Government animals and other property stolen by deserters, several of which formed this band. Many of this band of thieves and desperadoes have found their way into Texas, while others, one of whom lately killed and wounded another near Fort Mojave, are depredating in the lower country. I judge from the amount of forage ordered to be purchased at this and Camp Independence that it is designed to keep four companies at the two posts. It would, in my judgment, have a better influence upon the country, and also upon the hostile tribes of Indians in the adjacent country, to station one company at Fort Miller, one at this camp, one at Fort Tejon, and one at Camp Independence. By this arrangement a line of posts would be formed from Mariposa County to New San Pedro, extending through those secession counties bordering upon the Indian country, which would be in supporting distance of each other, requiring no additional force from that contemplated at this and Camp Independence, and requiring but little if any additional expense, as those posts are owned by the United States, and are in very [good] state of preservation, unless it should be the natural leakage of four instead of two quartermasters. I could urge many reasons why those additional posts should be occupied; but not desiring to trouble the department with further suggestions, I beg leave, most respectfully, [to submit the above] for your consideration.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. JONES,

Lieutenant-Colonel Second Cavalry California Vols., Comdg. Post.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 499-500]

Carson City, June 28, 1863.

To His Excellency Governor Orion Clemens,

            Nevada Territory:

            Sir : I find it an impossibility to recruit an infantry company in this Territory. I have now tried it for four weeks, at a personal expense of over $200, and as yet have to get a man. Parties that I am acquainted with are willing to join my company and furnish their own horses, and, if need be, to furnish one or two extra for others that cannot furnish one for themselves, and I am confident that if my company was changed from an infantry to a cavalry one that I could be mustered into service inside of thirty days. I am well liked by the community at large, and a great many men are willing to give up good claims, or place them in the hands of other parties, to go with me as a cavalry captain. If it is possible for you to change my company from an infantry to a cavalry one, you will, I think, confer a favor upon our mutual cause. By taking some immediate action upon this matter you will greatly oblige.

            Yours, respectfully,

J. J. CLOSE,

Captain Company A, First Infantry Nevada Territory Volunteers.

__________

Headquarters District of Utah,

Great Salt Lake City, Utah Ter., June 28, 1863.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant- General, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Colonel: I have the honor to inclose copies of letters this day received from Major Gallagher and Mrs. Phebe Westwood, relative to the conduct of the Indians who committed the recent raid on the Overland Mail Line, and of the reception of the latter by the authorities and people of the Mormon settlements at Salt Creek. I beg leave to invite the attention of the commanding general to the facts set forth, and ask that the papers inclosed be filed with my letter of 25th instant as bearing directly on the subjects therein discussed. The letter of Mrs. Westwood, I may add, is but corroborative of testimony reaching me from various sources, but as it comes in an authentic and concise shape it is forwarded for the information of the commanding general.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. EDW, CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

[Inclosure.]

Fort Ruby, Nev. Ter., June 25, 1863.

Capt. C. H. Hempstead,

            Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Utah:

            Captain : I have the honor to inform the general commanding that I was told a day or two since of a letter written by a lady at Fort Crittenden to her husband, who is a blacksmith in the employ of the Overland Mail Company, from which some important information might be obtained. Last night I succeeded in finding the husband, and made the inclosed extract from the letter. I am informed that she is a woman of good character, perfectly reliable, and well known at Fort Crittenden and vicinity. Her husband, who is at the station at work, informs me that she will be happy to give you all the information she is possessed of, but desires that you will protect her. I have this day stopped a train of emigrants, mostly rebels, and a great many of them formerly soldiers in Price's army. They number 60 men, with 300 head of mules. As soon as I have investigated the matter I will report by letter.

            Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. A. GALLAGHER,

Major Third California Volunteer Infantry, Commanding Post.

[Sub-inclosure.]

Fort Crittenden, June 19, 1863.

            Dear Dave: I have just received a note from you. It was very short, but still it was better than none. Well, I have been to Salt Creek on a visit, and I enjoyed myself the best kind. I got back last night, with Mr. Shell. They behaved very kind to me and treated me well. While I was gone the Indians captured another stage and killed two men. It happened about two miles this side the ford of the River Jordan. They brought the scalps of the poor men they killed down to Salt Creek, and I saw them, and a great many other things belonging to the stage. Ton had better believe it made me feel mad. I got dreadfully excited. The bishop down there treated the Indians with tobacco and ordered the people to feed them, and it made me so mad that I pitched into them and told them what I thought of them, and then I felt better.

* * * * * * * * * *

PHEBE WESTWOOD.

__________

[OR I-50-2, pp. 501-502]

Territory of Nevada, Executive Department,

Carson City, June 29, 1863.

Brig. Gen. George Wright,

            Commanding Department of the Pacific:

            General: May I ask you to station a company at Reese River? From the number and boldness of the secessionists there I fear trouble unless they are overawed. I inclose a letter received from Captain Close.[10] I should be pleased to have the desired change made if consistent with your views.

            With great respect, your obedient servant,

ORION CLEMENS,

Acting Governor.

__________

San Francisco, June 29, 1863.

Maj. Charles McDermit,

            Fort Churchill:

            Moore's command is expected to move before the 4th. Ketcham's company will go with Moore.

            By order:

R. C. DRUM,

Assistant Adjutant- General.

__________

Headquarters District of Utah,

Great Salt Lake City, Utah Ter., June 29, 1863.

Lieut. Col. R. C. Drum, U. S. Army,

            Assistant Adjutant- General, San Francisco, Cal.:

            Colonel: I have the honor herewith to inclose copy of Special Orders, No. 1, dated Camp Connor, Idaho Ter., May 23, 1863, establishing that post.[11] As the commanding officer has omitted to comply entirely with paragraph III, General Orders, No. 18, current series, headquarters Department of the Pacific, I beg leave to inform the department commander that Camp Connor adjoins Soda Springs, Idaho Ter.; that the nearest post-office is Logan, Cache Valley, Utah Ter., distant about seventy miles, and the best route of communication is via Great Salt Lake City, through Cache Valley to Franklin, and thence crossing Bear River at Blair's Ferry, along the new military road, as set forth in my communication of the 2d instant.

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

P. EDW. CONNOR,

Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

__________

[OR I-50-2, p. 507]

Abstract from return of the Department of the Pacific, Brig. Gen. George Wright, U. S.

Army, commanding, for June 30, 1863.

* * * * * * * * * *

DISTRICT OF UTAH.

Brig. Gen. P. Edward Connor.

CAMP DOUGLAS, UTAH TER.

Col. Robert Pollock.

2d California Cavalry, Companies A and H.

3d California (four companies).

FORT BRIDGER, UTAH TER.

Capt. George F. Price

2d California Cavalry, Company M.

3d California, Company I.

FORT RUBY, NEV. TER.

Maj. Patrick A. Gallagher.

2d California Cavalry, Company K.

3d California, Companies C and E.

FORT CHURCHILL, NEV. TER.

Maj. Charles McDermit.

2d California Cavalry, Company L.

3d California, Company A.

1st Battalion Nevada Cavalry, Company B.

CAMP CONNOR, IDAHO TER.

Capt. David Black.

3d California, Company H.

EN ROUTE.

3d California, Companies B and D,[12] Lieut. Col. Jeremiah B. Moore.

3d California, Company K,[13] Capt. John F. Staples.

DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.

Col. Ferris Forman.

* * * * * * * * * *

CAMP INDEPENDENCE, CAL.

Capt. Moses A. McLaughlin.

2d California Cavalry (three companies).

CAMP BABBITT, CAL.

Lieut. Col. William Jones.

2d California Cavalry, Company I.

* * * * * * * * * *

__________