The Indian Papers of Texas and the Southwest, 1825-1916, Volume II. (covers 1844-45)
The Indian Papers of
Texas and the South'1Vest
1825-1916
EDITED BY Dorman H. Winfrey AND James M. Day
VOLUME II
PREFACE hus PUBLICATION of Texas Indian Papers covers the period of the Republic of Texas from 1844 to Annexation. An earlier publication was for the years 1825 through 1843. The Texas Indian Papers pertain mainly to the Bureau of Indian Affairs of the Republic but also include miscellaneous papers of other departments dealing with Indian matters. Publications of these manuscripts are made available so that the general public can have access to the significant documents of Texas history. The publication program of the Archives Division of the Texas State Library fulfills in part the legislative mandate to "edit and preface for publication copies of the Texas Ar- chives." The original copies of the Texas Indian Papers were found to contain such a diverse assortment of material that a set of rules could not be established to cover every problem in editing. Particularly helpful suggestions have been supplied by Clarence E. Carter, Historical Editing (1952) and the sections on "The Copying of Manuscripts" and "The Editing and Printing of Manuscripts" in the Harvard Guide to American History (1955). Also examined for style and for suggestions were Charles Gulick and others (eds.), Papers of Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar (1920-1927), Amelia W. Williams and Eugene C. Barker (eds.), Writings of Sam Houston (1938-1943), Eugene C. Barker (ed.), Austin Papers (1924-1928), and William C. Binkley (ed.), Offi,- cwl Correspondence of the Texan Revolution, 1885-1886 (1936). The documents are listed in chronological order. In almost all instances the originals have been copied verbatim et litera,. ti·m. Words or letters have been supplied only when the docu- ment was illegible or torn, or where the orthography was such as to render its meaning doubtful. The printed copy was read numerous times against the original manuscript, and [sic] was inserted only when there was a feeling that a doubt would re- main in the reader's mind about strange spelling, a date, or a fact. When an original document was not used, a notation has been given. An effort has been made to maintain consistent spelling with reference to proper names, localities, Indian tribes, and the like. Guides used for such spellings were F. W. Hodge
(ed.), Handbook of Ame1·ican Indians North of Mexico (1907), W. P. Webb and H. Bailey Carroll (eds.), Handbook of Texas (1952), and the South11.•cstern Historical Quarterly. The frontis- piece and two drawings done by Seth Eastman, United States Army officer stationed in Texas before the Civil War, are re- produced from Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, Historical and Sta- tist-ical Information Respecting the Histo1-y, Condition, ancl Pros7>ects of the Indian Tribes of the United States (1851-1857). The State Archivist has been assisted in the editing by J. R. Patterson, Jr., who took on most of the responsibilities ,vhen two staff members, George R. Nielsen and Albert Dick Pattillo, left the State Archives. A portion of the typing, indexing, and proofreading has been done by Mrs. Irene Sanchez, Jaime Platon, Alvin A. Horne, John C. Wilson, and Paul Willcott. State Librarian Witt B. Harwell has given his support and cooperation in the publication of the Texas Indian Papers and appreciation is expressed to him. Dr. H. Bailey Carroll, Pro- fes.ior of History at the University of Texas, was frequently consulted and his helpful suggestions are deeply appreciated. Special thanks are extended to Mr. Thomas W. Streeter of Mor- ristown, New Jersey, to Professor William R. Hogan of Tulane University, and to the University of Oklahoma Press for the use of the map of "Principal Communities and Roads in Settled Area of Republic of Texas Based on a map by Richard S. Hunt and Jesse F. Randel, 1845."
DORMAN H. WINFREY State Archivist
March 4, 1960
_J
INTRODUCTION
MoRE YEARS AGO than I care to specify I walked pur- posefully if somewhat diffidently into the Archives of the Texas State Library seeking material on some of the institutions and personalia of the Republic of Texas. A kindly yet authoritative white-haired little woman straightened me out on what I was seeking, drew information from mysterious sources, and alto- gether impressed me with carrying more Texas history and more archival information in her head than I would have believed possible. I left, a bit over-awed by Miss Harriet Smither, the state archivist. Over the years I worked with Miss Smither and succeeding archivists and their assistants, always with an acute sense of in- feriority on my part. I came to learn what a cache of informa- tion the State Archives held and to wish that. somehow more of it could come out of Miss Smither's head and out of elusive and dusty envelopes, and into clean type and between hard covers. As much as I liked to delve into the Archives and to visit with the people in the office, I did long for a more convenient means of getting at much of the material than by the time-consuming process of plodding through manuscript collections. Although my wishes had nothing to do with the change, the successors to Miss Smither resuscitated a publication program that had been sporadic at best. Particularly since the advent of the present State Archivist, Dorman Winfrey, there is real promise that a revitalized publication program will pour a steady stream into the fountain of Texas knowledge and ac- quaint scholars with the deep rich well of archival treasures that this State holds on all sorts of subjects. The first trove that Mr. Winfrey brought to light was Texas Indian Papers, 1825-1849, which was hailed by historians and scholarly publications throughout the nation. The present YO!- ume carries the story through the end of the Republic, with still a third volume in the wings. When this trilogy is completed, Mr. Winfrey promises us fresh treasures in another field of Texas experience. With historians everywhere, I salute the State Archives and the Texas State Library for its vision in
making these manuscripts available and hope that the percep- tion that made publication funds possible will endure so long as the well holds out. JOE B. FRANTZ March 21, 1960
•
ILLUSTRATIONS
Comanche Inscription on the Shoulder Blade of a Buffalo, drawn from the original by Seth Eastman ............. frontispiece
BETWEEN PAGES 198 AND 199:
Map of Principal Communities and Roads in Settled Area of Republic of Texas
Comanche Warrior
Indians Traveling, drawn by Seth Eastman
Buffalo Chase, drawn by Seth Eastman
-
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
No. 1 AUDIT OF ACCOUNT OF AGENT
Treasurers Department Auditors Office Jan 1st 1844
$400.- 1 certify that I have examined the Returns of the Hon G. W. Hill for disbursements made on account of Indian purposes etc and find that he is entitled to a Credit on the Same for four hundred dollars according to the vouchers herewith submitted to the Comptroller for his decision thereon-- To. Jas B. Shaw Esq Comptroller Charles Mason Auditor I certify and admit the above this 9th Jany 1844. JAMES B SHAW Compt [Endo.,-aP.d] Certificate of Auditor G. W. Hill
No. 2 AUDIT OF ACCOUNT OF AGENT
Treasury Department Auditor's Office Jany 13 1844
I certify that I have examined the Returns of Hon George W Terrell for disbursements made on account of Indian purposes and find that he is entitled to receive credit on the sum for the Amount of Two Hundred Dollars. And that Capt John Black is chargeable to the Amount of Forty six Dolls and J B Ransom in the amount of Thirty Dollars ai:. per Abstract and vouchers herewith submitted to the ComP- troller for his decision thereon. Charles Mason Audltor
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS 1 1844-1845
2
To James B Shaw Esq Comptroller Admitted per Two hundred dollars to balance account. Jany 13. 1844
JAMES B SHAW Compt
[Endors£d] $200.00
Geo W Terrell Cr.
No. 3 EXPENSES OF P. C. WATSON, INDIAN AGENT [January 15, 1844] Expenses of P. C. Watson Agent appointed to Convey Indian Prisoners to Waco Village. Amt Pd. for sugar- ,, " for boy going errand " " for 2 Bushels Meal at Yorks- $ 4.50 .50
4.00 5.00 12.25 3.75 1.50 10.00
" Expenses of Indians " " for bacon " York for services " of Bill at Earthmans " for 20 lbs Coffee at LaGrange " 20 lbs Sugar " an axe " Corn-at Millers " " Corn and Potatoes at Ebbins
,,
8.00 4.00 3.00 5.00 2.00 5.00 5.00 2.37 1.00 1.00
,,
,, ,, ,, ,, ,. ,. ,, II ,, ,,
" " Corn-at McKean's " " Corn and Meal etc. 11 11
Corn and bacon at Hills
" " " "
" and Tobacco
" and clinching shoes at Smiths
" " Presents " John York for Services " " hire of 4 mules and Men " " Pilot " " Clothing for Indian Women
30.00 16.00
4.00 4.00 1.50 8.00 2,00
" Caps and Powder " " Corn etc. at Strouds " Expenses at Mrs. Walkers 11
II
,,
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
3
Ferriage
.50
H
$143.87
For Services
56.13
$200.00
Approved the within account for Two hundred dollars. SAM HOUSTON 15th Jany 1844 [Endorsed] Returns of $200- P. C. Watson Indian Prisoners
No. 4
AUDIT OF ACCOUNT OF INDIAN AGENT P. C. WATSON Treasury Department Auditor's Office Jany 15th 1844 I certify that I have examined the return of P. C. Watson for disbursements etc. on account of Indian P_urposes and find that he is entitled to a credit on the same to the amount of Two hundred Dollars-as pr Bill of expenses approved by His Ex- cellency the President--All of which is submitted to the comp- troller for his decision.
Charles Mason Auditor
To: Jas B Shaw Esq Comptroller
Comptrollers Office
I admit the above.
JAMES B SHAW Compt
J~nuary 15th 1844 [Endorsed] Comptroller
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
4
No. 5 ACCOUNT OF INDIAN BUREAU WITH JIM SHAW [February 2, 1844] 6 lbs Tobacco 4 ,, ,, 6 ,, ,,
6.00 4.00 5.00 2.00
4 Bu Knives--- paid for corn and meat paid for oil and corn and meat
12.00 34.37
$ 63.37 18.00
for provisions at Sunderies times
$ 81.37½
This amt. included in the account of Jim Shaw Feb. 2d, 1844.
63.37 29.00
$ 34.37½ 18.00
$52.37½
[Endorsed] Bill of Express $ 81. 37111
No. 6
OATH OF OFFICE AS INDIAN AGENT TAKEN BY CAMBRIDGE GREEN [February 10, 1844] Republic of Texas County of Washington This day personally appeared before me, a Notary Public in .and for said County, Cambridge Green, who solemnly swears that, as Agent of the Lipan and Tonkawa tribes of Indians, he will well and truly and to the best of his ability, discharge his duties, according to law and the instructions of the Government.
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
5
Sworn to and subscribed before
C. GREEN
me the 10th day of February, 1844. Dan I Toler Noty Pubc. [Endorsed] Oath of Cambridge Green, Indian Agent.
No. 7 STATEMENT OF INDIAN BUREAU DISBURSEMENTS [March 1-6, 1844]
Statement of Disbursements made for 4 Indian Chiefs viz.- Red Bear-Acaquash-Tawehash-March 1st to 6th-1844 Suite J S. Ufford merchandise
104.83 46.40
Dieterich and Bless'ing-do- Roberts, Potatoes and Bacon Bellen Potatoes and Bacon
2.70 3.00 6.00 9.50 1.00 8.00 .50 1.12
Norwood-Pork Ford---Hats 1 load fire wood P Watson, a Steer
etc.
L. Moore-Stirrups, Judge Johnson 2 Buchs meal 1 peck do Jno Lockhart At Gun l\lioore ----do Judge Lockhart Sundries Dieterich and Blessing Sundries
20.00 11.00
1.75
215.80
1 Keg Gun Powder 4 Spears [Endorsed] Amts. of Acct. for Goods bot for Indians March 1844
No. 8
BILL OF LADING FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TOR. W. PORTER Washington March 9th 1844.
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
6
Maj. R. W. Porter Sir-
Under instructions from His Excellency the President I Send you by Mr. R A. Barton 40 Kegs Gun Powder and one Keg musket Cartridges, as per. Bill Lading herewith, which please require and hold Subject to further orders and d1·aw upon the Executive for the amount of the freight. Very Respectfully etc etc THOMAS G WESTERN Superintendent Indian Affairs [Endorsed] Letter to R W Porter Falls of Brazos Mar. 9, 1844 Duplicate bill of lading and letter advise to R W Porter 40 Kegs Powder 1 Keg Catridges pr. Teamster R A Barton for Falls of Brazos 9th March. 1844- Duplicate Received in good order and well conditioned of Maj. T G West- ern Superintendent of Indian Affairs the following articles Viz. Forty Kegs Gun Powder and one keg of Musket Catridges being marked and numbered as in the margin and to be delivered in like good order and condition to Maj. Robt. W. Porter or his order at the Falls of the Brazos he paying freight for the same at the rate of one Dollar and fifty cents pr 100 lbs. Witness my hand in the town of Washington this 9th day of March 1844. R. A. BARTON [Noted across the page] MP. 41 Kegs
No. 9
LETTER FROM MOPECHUCOPE, COMANCHE CHIEF, TO SAM HOUSTON [March 21, 1844] Near the head of Colorado March 21st 1844. My Brother I received and heard your letter read. You sent to Pah-hah- yuco; and heard all the talk you sent him and his people with great pleasure; I cannot but rejoice with gladness; it is what I long have wanted to hear; I can only say my feelings
..
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
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a!.·e just like Yours ; my heart as Your heart; and now call on the Great-Spirit the Great Father above to witness it; although I am not known to you; I am looked up to by all my tribe for council; even Pah-hah-yuco himself looks to me for council; we all stayed on the clear fork of Brazos a long time waiting to hear from you but got tired and at this time my people are very much scattered; Pah-hah-yuco with some of his band have gone to the Salt plain on Arkansas some have gone over to the Pecos and Rio Grande; but it is known and understood by all The Comanche that we are at peace with Texas and has been ever since the Treaty with Eldredge; thare has been no mischief done by the Comanche since that time; neither to the Texians or the Tonkawa or Lipan; I learn from your men thare was some mischief done last-winter and leayed on my people but I a~ure you it is not the case; if it was them I would tell you at a word or if I knew who did it I would tell you; if thare is any more mischief done from this time and you do not know whoo done it let me know and if I know or can find out I will let you know whoo it was; I will do all I can for peace; and I know I can manage my own people, you want some of us to come to the Council in Aprile but it is impossable for me or any of my tribe to come at this time we are too much scattered only myself and one or iwo more men left here with all the woman and children; I am verry sorry it is so some of us cannot come if your men had have got here a few days sooner before my Brother left with all the young men for Rio Grande to ketch mustangs; myself with some others could have come down but it is too late. They are gone and we cannot come now; but my heart is there, this I want to be a sufficient showing to you that me and my people are your friends; this I hope will satisfy you and shal be a sufficient Treaty of peace with me and my Tribe; You may think I say too much; but my words are words of truth and I will prove it to you; My path is now made white and I will come my self and see you as soon as my young men returns from Pecos and Rio Grande; I charged them particularly when they started not to touch any Texian or his property but if they met with any of them to treat them like brothers but for fear they may some of them bee foolish I will send a runner to overtake them and tell them again; and tell them that I have heard from you since they' left and your talk was good, and to remember I told them before they started not to interrupt any of your peo- ple; you thanked us verry much for the way we treated your
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
8
Commissioners last year and wished to see us to thank us again but you have returned that fore fold by the way you have treated this old woman that has been to see you; her story of you and your people and the way she was treated makes my heart glad to think you would notice her; and at the same time makes me mad at my self and people to think such an old woman should go so far to make peace for her tribe when thare is plenty o: young men doing nothing; her talk is all good and I know every word of it is true, I thank you for the little girl you sent hc,me by the old woman; she got home safe to her people to the arms of her mother her father is dead. I dont want you to send any more of your prisoners home until thare is an exchange of all the white prisoners and they are all given up. thare is three amonghts us some whare but none present thare was five but two are dead; My people are blind and foolish and are not willing to give up thare prisoners without pay; but I will fix ali that satisfactory; those that have relations in Texas shal buy the white prisoners and then make the exchange which they wont grumble at for that is thare custom; I think in June or July next I will be down thare to se you if I live then I will tell you all my hart and mind; I want you to let all your people know and particularly on the frontier that the Comanche are coming down that we all are at peace with Texas which I hope will last as long as time lasts; and when they see us not to think us enemies but friends and brothers and meat us as such; that my path is once more made white past times are all forgotten and I will come amongst my friends, all I want now is a line run between our countries which line I want to commence on Brazos river passing over the Comanche Peak from thare direct to the mouth of the first large creek running in the Colorado on the west-side below the mouth of the San Saba; from thence in a direct line to the Rio Grande; all above that line is Co- manche Country and ever has been I my self never have left it nor never intends to; at this treaty with the Indians if you wish to designate the line fully the aforesaid line will sattisfy the Comanche; if you do not choose to make it until you see us I hope it will be all right; thare has been a great many diffi- culties amonghts us but they are now all settled, we are all to meat on the clear Fork of the Brazos next September with a great many different tribes; I want all of them to make a full peace and treaty•with Texas as the Comanche have done if you Could be thare it would be a great thing. Then all things could
----,
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
9
be fixed right; if you will come or send commissioners they will be treated well and nead not fear bad treatment for I want all the Indians to make peace with Texas and some of them could not be got to go down to the settlements; as far me and my peo- ple we will no longer fear to come down as I will prove to you by corning what I say to you are words of truth and I want you to hear and beleave them as I do yours as one Brother aught to hear another. So no more untel we meat Yours truly untel Death Witness his DANIEL G. WATSON MOPECHUCOPE X his mark Del JOHN CONNER X corn his mark ScEIE CONNA X present LUIS SANCHEZ not present mark his his TA CAR QUEASHE X Keechi chief QUAS HAS APO X Capt mark mark his CAPT STUMP X Del mark [Endorsed] To His Excellency Sam Houston President of the Great Republic of Texas Talk of Mopechucope Comanche Chief March-21st. 1844 Recd. at Treaty Ground Tehuacana Creek 23 April / 44 No. 10 LETTER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO TORREY AND BROTHERS Washington March 23 1844 Messr. Torry & Brother Houston Gentn. His Excellency the President instructs rue to say that he wishes you to send up or take with you to the Treaty ground the following articles some of which will be required for the use of the Government then and others for your own account will be suitable for the trade--Tomahawks
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
10
-100 Hoes of the smallest size to be had-100. Small Hatchets -500. lbs. Lead-2 Robes Similar to that presented to the Waco Chief "Acaquash."-Tin cups pans and buckets.-Blankets and Beads, Setts of Shells Similar to those you sent a sample of some strouding and such other goods as in your own judgement may be adapted. The Govt. has in deposit at the Falls of the Brazos upwards of 1000 lbs of Powder of a quality not very superior, this is mentioned for your government as regards that article.- Very Respectfully Yr obt. st.
THOMAS G WESTERN Supdt Indian affairs
[Endorsed] Letter to Torrey & Brother Houston Washington 23 March 1844
No. 11 LETTER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO TORREY AND BROTHERS Washington March 31. 1844 Messr. Torrey & Brothers Houston Gent. Your paper of 27th inst. came duly to hand, content noted, His Excellency intertaining some apprehension that, unless you make extraordinary exertions, your teams with the goods you mention may not, if the roads are in a bad state, reach the Council ground by the 15th. prox- imo, the day appointed for the convention. General Newton leaves here for Trinity tomorrow and may possibly take your City on the route in which case you will of course have an inter- view- This Bureau has deposited at Mr. J. T. Whitesides on the east side of this river and about 6 miles from this town some 500 lbs of freight for amount of the Govt.-you are requested to cause some of your teams to call there and take it up with your own freight. it consists of articles necessary at the treaty and it is hoped you will give "it your attention, as no transporta-
·--
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
11
tion can be had here for the upper country--
Respectfully yr. Mo. obt. St. T. G. WESTERN
[Endorsed] (Copy)
T G Western 31 March 1844 To Torrey Brother
No. 12 ACCOUNT OF INDIAN BUREAU WITH JOHN LocKHART Washington April 3d 1844 Indian Bureau To the Estate of John Lockhart Deed.
To 22 lbs Bacon @ 8 cts " 77 " Fodder @ 6/ c " 1½ Bushels Corn @ 6/- ,. 7 Days board of Menchara @ 6/-
1.76 .56 1.13 5.25
8.76
Recd an app acct for Eight Dollars 76/cn. of which the above is a Copy- Wash'ington 14th March 1845- C. J .. C. LOCKHART as administrater [Endorsed] Estate of John Lockhart $ 8.76 Deed. 14 March/45
No. 13 LETTER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO SAM HOUSTON Franklin Apl. 9, 1844 Dr. Genl-You'll perceive I am thus far advanced all well- Menchara is with me and the Indians--Col. Neill is ahead and so is Col. Williams---Dr Hill will accompany me to the Falls, ht says he will write you thence-I shall of course do the same-- all we know about the Comanche is that it is rumored that they were seen on Little River coming in to the Treaty-
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
12
I had a severe spell of sickness after you left Washington and was still quite ill when I left, but I am better- hope you left Mrs. Houston and Mr. Sam in health and that your own is good-I shall travel 12 or 15 miles further this afternoon Yr. Mo. Truly Western In haste at Marlins Falls of the Brazos Apl. 13, 1844 Gen. Sam Houston Apl. 13, 1844 Sir-I improve the accasion pr. Mr. Raymond to report, thus far on my way to the Treaty. The Sec. War and Com. Neill are here and Comrs. Williams is reported to be at Tehuacana Mr Torrey's young man who left there two days ago informs me that there is now at the treaty ground some 500 Indians, Dela- ware, Caddo, Shawnee ete.-we have not yet heard of Sanchez, nor of the Comanche further than a rumor from Little River that they are corning in-Menchara has delivered over the Cap- tives which were in his charge it has been deemed advisable to leave them at this place until Some talk is had with their tribe, he returns home-Mr Green is here with three Lipan Chiefs and a Comanche woman, they also remain here for further or- ders, It is the general opinion that nothing can be done to ef- fect without your presence-I trust-it will be convenient for you to come. preparations at the Treaty ground are in a state of form and new houses built and building Some come in store and Dr. H [ill] has made a contract for Beef-Should you be able to attend the Council you will no doubt find everything in readiness to meet your wishes- I trust Mrs Houston and Mr. Sam are well-be pleased to present my respectful Salutations, my health is not good, had an attack of fever laRt night Something new to me-You may depend upon it I Shall keep the field as long as I can and remain every aid in my power, and discharge the duties of my office strictly So far as my health may permit.--
Very respectfully yr. mo. obt. st. THOMAS G. WESTERN Supt. of Indian Affs.
[Endors,;d] Supdt.
To Franklin 9th Apl/44 Marlin 13 Apl/44 The President
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
13
No. 14 LETTER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO SAM HOUSTON Council Ground Tehuacana Ck. April 15---1844 Gen Sam Houston Sir We reached this place yesterday, the recent continued rains delaied us some time on the way. Dr. Hill, Cols. Neill, Williams, Mr. Sloat and myself and Some Supernmaries are the only per- sons here, besides Some 200 Indians Caddo Delaware and Shaw- nee, Jack Ivy is here, he came in Some two days ago, Sent by Acaquash with a stolen horse he took from Some of his people, and like an honest man returned to its owner-Jack says that Acaquash has gone up among the Comanche to hasten them on, none of them are in as yet. Col. Williams is of opinion that they will not be in before the full of the moon--Sanchez has not been heard from--Menchaca was discharged at "Marlins" where the prisoners he brought are deposited until other dispo- sition is made of them-About 200 bush. of Corn are already here, the balance will be up Shortly--Some 20 or 30 Beeves are engaged, for the days of the Council at present they hunt for meat-- In haste Yr. obt st
THOMAS G. WESTERN Supdt. Indian Affs.
No. 15 MINUTES OF A COUNCIL AT TEHUACANA CREEK Tehuacana Creek
Friday evening April 19th 1844. Minutes of a Council called by Maj Thos G. Western, Su- perintendent of Indian Affairs, for the purpose of eliceting in- formation from a Creek indian woman in relation to a murder committed near to the Falls of the Brazos, a few nights pre-
-
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
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vious, as well as to quiet the minds of the Indians upon the Ccuncil ground respecting that act. At the Council there were present Col Williams and Neill, Indian Commissioners, Doct. G. W. Hill, Secretary of War and Marine, Mr Sloat Agent together with a large number of Dela- ware, Caddo and Shawnee Indians. Through Interpeters the following questions were put by Maj Western to the indian woman, and her answers given. Ques. What is your name? Ans. Samarnigey. Ques. Of what country and tribe are you? Ans. Muskogee or Creek. Ques. What do you know in relation to a murder committed below here upon some Creek indians, a few nights since? The Great Spirit is looking down upon us now and knows all we say, if you tell us the truth no body will trouble you, if you tell a lie the Great Spirit will punish you. Ans. In the middle of the night my husband, a white man, got up as he said to obey a call of nature, and went out, in a short time he returned and then again went out, and returned again with a tomahawk, with which he killed the people who were in the house. Ques. What was the size of the tomahawk? Ans. ·Large: such as we used to cut down trees. Ques. What did you do? Ans. I ran and caught hold of him and got his axe away : he said the wild indians had killed my people. Ques. What is his name? Ans. Dave Barton. Ques. Is he a white man, indian or negro? Ans. A full blooded white arnerican. Ques. Who were the people he killed and what were their names? Ans. The old woman's name was Solygay, and boy's name was Friday, and the little girl that was wounded since dead was n&med Harney. Ques. Were there any more people sleeping besides those three? Ans. No body. Ques. Who was in the room with you besides your husband? Ans. No one. Q1.1es. Did he, your husband, run away after he said the wild In- dians had committed the murder? Ans. He had at that time, possession of the axe, and we had left the house. I told him I wished to go back, he said two wild
15
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
indians had killed my people, that they were yet at the house, and if I went back they would kill me too, and told me to stop crying. I then went and passed the night at his house, but did not sleep. Ques. What occurred the next day? Ans. I wished to go back, but he would not let me. Ques. What did he say? Ans. That I had better not speak at all, as we, the indians, were poor people, and the white men would n,Jt believe me. Ques. What did he say when you took away the axe, after the murder? Ans. That the wild indians had killed my people, but as soon as foe grass was good he would take me to the Creek nation. Ques. How long have you been the wife of Barton? Ans. He first married Solygay, after a time he wanted me but I refused as Solygay was my mother's sister, and I thought him then a bad man, he has been my husband a little more than one Did he ever ask you to go to his house to live with him? Ever since we married, but I was fearful and refused. Did he supply you with corn and meat? He gave us nothing. Ques. How did you get corn and Ans. By working for Beden Stroud. Ques. Was he ever angry when other men went to your house? year. Ques. Ans. Ques. Ans. meat? Ans. He was, and cursed me about it, and when we would give auy one to eat he would be more angry, and afterwards, some- times, whip us. Ques. Where do you wish to go? Ans. When the wounded girl gds well I wish to go to my mother; until then I wish to remain here at the council ground. I have a child by a negro, which the father wishes to get from me, if he gets it in possession it will become a slave. She was 'informed by Maj Western that she need have no fear for herself or children; that they should be protected and that she might remain here in safety: that the whole white na- tion, if necessary, would protect her from harm. Maj Western then gave a short talk to the Indians present, telling them that they and all indians were free from suspicion of any participation in the murder, that the white man was a bad man, that he would be punished by the laws of our country,
TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1844-1845
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that he was already in prison, and would undergo his trial etc. the indians replied manifesting their satisfaction, and declaring that the friendship heretofore existing remained unimpaired, or words to that effect, and the talk closed a little before sunset.- WALTER WINN Secretary, P. T. [Endorsed] Minutes of a Council held at Tehuacana Creek April 14 1844
No. 16 LETrER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO SAM HOUSTON Council Bluff Tehuacana Creek 20 Apl. 1844 To His Excellency Genl. Sam Houston Sir- By a former communication I have advised your Excelly that we reached this place designated for the Treaty ground on the 14th Inst. and have now to add what up to this time nothing reliable has been heard of the Comanche or of Sanchez or Conner. On Monday last information was received at this Post that some Creek Indians residing on this river within a mile of S1:rouds place, had been murdered on Sunday night while Sleep- ing in their own house, and as was then reported the atrocity had Committed by Wild Indians-In the execution of what I conceived to be my duty I proceeded to institute an investiga- tion of the facts in the case to which and I caused to be brought to this place the Survivng [surviving] Creek woman a relation of the deceased, whose deposition taken in Council and in pres- ence of the Delaware, Caddo and Shawnee you will find herein enclosed for your information, the evidence of this witness you will perceive goes to implicate one David Barton a young man of family residing Some 20 miles below this place and the father of an infant by witness, he had been examined before a Magistrate, but Sufficient legal evidence could not be found to warrant his committal-it appears he is now at large-The Indians here are Satisfied that he committed the act and in their minds exon- erate the wild Indians from all impuration.
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This is a delightful spot-Mr Sloat is actively engaged in erecting the necessary buildings for Council house etc. the Council is filled and every thing will be in readiness for your reception whenever we shall announce to you the approach of the Comanche, which information shall be communicated to you at Washington so soon as received. I shall be pleased to hear from you soon, of your health and that of Mrs. Houston and Mr. Sam, and trust my proceedings thus far may merit your approbation, and instructions for my government in future. Very Respectfully I remain
Your Mo. obt sert. THOMAS G WESTERN Superintendent Indian Affairs
P.S. Dr. Hill leaves this day for Franklin, and bears this as far d~wn the Country as may be, Cols Neill and Williams are here, the latter purposes going up the Country to some of the Joni villages in a day or two nothing has been heard of Commissioner Smith.
No. 17 ACCOUNT OF INDIAN BUREAU WITH J. M. KERR [April 20, 1844] li;dian Department To J M Kerr Apl 20 To 200 Bushels of corn at five bits in 1844 Exchquers per bushel as agreed upon by B. Sloat to supply the Indian Council Dr $125.00
I have examined the above acct and find it correct as
representative to me by Ben. Sloat Indian Agent. THO G WESTERN Supd. Indian affairs Washington 24th May 1844
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No. 18 LETTER FROM THOMAS G. WESTERN TO SAM HOUSTON Council Bluff Tehuacana Ck. April 25, 1844 Tc His Excellency Genl Sam Houston Sir- By the comunication of the Commissioners of this date you will be informed of the return of the Envoy, without the Co- manche, with other particulars unnecessary here to repeat, they aiso send you copy of a talk from the Comanche Chief Mopechu- ccpe after Mr. Watson who brought in this "Talk" accompan'ied Jchn Conner to the head of the river Colorado as they State- They represent this Chief to be a very rational being and inclined to a permanent peace with us, and Says that he considers we are and have been at peace for some time, as regards themselves -They are now prosecuting vigorous hostilities against Chi- huahua.- Mr. W. States that the Chief told him that he claimed no territory East of the Brazos that their hunting grounds are west of that river and extend down to the Comanche Peak, thence to the first large Creek below the San Saba and thence to the Rio Grande. Pah-hah-yuco is at the Salt Plains Red River, that some 15 or 20 of the Chiefs intend to assemble and visit the Ioni villages during the Roasting Ear Season and thence to proceed to Washington to see the President. It Seems that Sanchez was taken sick on the route up and did not reach the Comanche-Watson left him a few days Since, and he is ex- pected here with Conner-some 100 Indians are expected here hourly, head men of the Waco-Tawakoni-Keech.i-Toni-Cad- do-Cherokee-Delaware-Shawnee and Anadarko-The Wich- ita or Tawehash will not be represented-with there Tribes the line from the Brazos Eastward, it is said is to be adjusted and your pleasure, it seems to me would be of great importance, but you know best. The commissioners are besieging me for beef to feed those indians when they come in, as well as those already here, but I have no instructions from you and am Somewhat puzzled how to aid in the matter. Torreys wagons have not yet arrived, they
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are stalled at "Big-Creek" some 30 miles below. We have not a pound of Tobacco at this place, so that if the Indians arrive and the trains do not get up we shall be in rather an ugly fix with some hundreds of red folk on our hands and no tobacco or beef-there are herds of buffalo within a short distance, but it is much as we can do to get meat enough out of them to answer present purposes-we have some 300 bushels of Corn here and more on the way up a little of this has been rationed out for the women and children of the Delaware Caddo and Shawnee already here but this has been done with a sparing hand as a matter of necessity. I draw of your general instructions for my government and that you will have the goodness to define my duties, so that I may execute yr. orders to the letter, thus far I have acted according to my best judgement, pursueing such a course as 'in my opinion would meet yr. approbation, as I trust it will. Mr. Sloat has finished the Council house a building 32 by 20 ft. He is an active and industrious man-With sentimats of respect I have the honor to be yr mo obt sert. T G W Superind. Indian Affrs.
No. 19 MINUTES OF A COUNCIL AT TEHUACANA CREEK
Council Ground, Tehuacana Creek. Saturday Evening April 27th 1844.
Minutf:s of a Council called by the Commissioners and the Su- p!?rintendent of Indian Affairs, for the purpose of making known to the several Tribes of Indians assembled, the probable time in which they would unite in Council for business, and the rea- son of their present delay. Maj Thos. G. Western, as Superintendent of Indian Affairs, presided at the Council. Col. Neill, Commissioner, was present; St. Louis, Chief of the Delaware, Jose Maria, the Anadarko Chief with Besente, his orderly sergeant; Bintah and Red Bear, Caddo Chiefs, with Had-dah-bah a Captain and Ne-est-choo an orderly sergeant; Bedi, the Ioni Chief and Cho-Nah-Cio and Kah-te-ah-tic Chiefs of the Keechi, with many of their warriors. The Council was opened by lighting and passing the pipe of
. 1
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peace, after which through Luis Sanchez, the Interpreter, Maj Western delivered the following talk. "Sam Houston sent me here; Sam Houston is the father of all Texas; the father of the white folks: the father of the red folks. Sam Houston told me the path was white between him and his red brothers: he told me, when I should see the red men I must embrace them all for him; that he loved them very much. He told me, no red man would steal from the white man: no white man would steal from the red man.-he told me I must come here and be a father to the red men until he should come here. he did not send me here to make a Treaty with the Comanche and other Indians: he sent this man (Col. Neill) and two others as Commissioners. We expected two weeks ago to see the Comanche here. Sam Houston intended to come here to meet the Comanche and alI his red brothers two weeks ago. Now the Comanche did not come: Sam Houston did not come, because he has a big talk with the English, and United States, the American and other people. When we understood the Co- manche were not coming we wrote to Sam Houston about it-the man that took the letter has not come back, that man may come in four days; he may come in €ight days; it may be Sam Houston will come with him; it may be, he will not come. he is our father. If the Comanche had come and we had had a big talk and peace with all, Sam Houston had sent many presents. Now on the road, coming from Houston, are some things. Houston knows the people want hoes for corn, and axes for the women to cut wood: when they are here, they, and some small things shall be given. Until the wagons arrive with hoes and axes, and the letter arrives, the people must be quiet and remain content. We have got plenty to eat; corn plenty; tomorrow, or next day, plenty of meat. We now have nothing to do but sleep, arink and eat. I now close this talk by doing what Sam Houston told me: to embrace all for him: all: every one of you." Maj Western went around and embraced all the Chiefs. St. Louis, Chief of the Delaware, arose and made the following talk: "I want all to hear what I say, now, I have heard all this talk: now you have heard a good white talk: just about such as Houston would give; it is all good as brothers.-the white and red meet here together today; Sam Houston has sent his word to
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us : we are all very glad of it. Now they listen to the words Hous- ton sends all the nations will be glad to hear it. What has been told here today gives us great spirits, as by looking round we can witness. when we meet in Council we are now, once more, as we were in olden times. I hope every one will listen and take hold of the words of Houston. Now, by our brother's word in Council, I know all will be right. I know it is good counsel. I understand Red Bear wants to go, but he must stay until our grand council. I am very glad myself, and I want all the men, women and chil- dren to stay and be glad with what we hear from our white brother. Now all the Chiefs are here together in Council. when we separate I hope all will be right. you know what has been told you ; to wait three, four or eight days; be satisfied all to wait. Now we are all together, we must stay all together until we hear the best of the Council.-and the men must listen to their captains. Now I have all my Delaware boys: they stay with me: they think as I do, and they want to hear the good of the big Council. All our men women and children are glad there will be a good peace. this is no council: in a few days it will take place, and the Commissioners will tell us where to make our homes. and when it is over our young men can go out and hunt the buffalo and deer with a good heart. now the Chiefs and Captains are all here, I want them to remain with their young men until the Council takes place. We have nothing to do but eat, drink and dance all the time." Bintah, the Caddo Chief, after arose and gave the following talk. "I am going to talk like my white brother. I am not uneasy; my heart lies right down. it is at peace. my young men are all the same; they are satisfied. I have waited many days, but am not in a hurry, as I want to hear good talk and counsel, and because I have plenty to eat and am satisfied: if I get beef or fat hogs, it will be much better, all my people will hear and be satisfied. this is all I have to say." The other Chiefs stated they had nothing to say until the big council, and the talk closed. WALTER WINN Secretary, Commissioners [Endorsid] Minutes of Council. April 27th. 1844
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No. 20
LETTER FROM WALTER WINN TO SAM HOUSTON
Council Ground, Tehuacana Creek, May 2nd 1844-
To his Excellency Gen'l Sam Houston President of the Republic of Texas Sir
Agreeable to your wishes, made known to me at Houston, that you might have a copy of all the Indian talks, and at the request of the Commissioners, I forward to you the minutes of a small Council held on the evening of the 27th April, together with a statement made by Luis Sanchez to tr.e Commissioners respecting what passed beneath his own observation while among the several Tribes with whom we are now treating. I have the honor to inform you, also, that, by a Keechi, lately arrived, we are told Acaquash, with the Waco, are now on their way in. J. Chisholm arrived, on the evening of the 29th, with a number of the Cherokee. It is supposed there are, in all, at the present time, about 350 Indians upon the Council gl·ound. I have the honor to subscribe myself, Your Ob't Serv't WALTER WINN Secretary to Commissioners [Endorsed] Walter Winn, Sec'y to Indian Commissioners To May 2d, 1844. President. To his Excellency Gen'! Sam Houston President Republic of Texas Per Favor Hon. Geo. W. Hill
No. 21 LETTER FROM DANIEL G. WATSON TO SAM HOUSTON Council Ground, Tehuacana Creek May 4th 1844.-
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To his Excellency
Gen'l Sam Houston
President of the Republic of Texas Sir,
Agreeable to the instructions received from you at Washington, in company with John Conner I left that place on the 6th of February in quest of the Comanche, for the purpose of bringing them and all other tribes, with whom I might meet, into the Treaty ground, if practicable. We arrived at the Falls of the Brazos on the 10th Ulto. where we were two days detained in making preparation for our journey. we then left the Falls, and on the 13th met with Capt Sanchez, at an Ioni Camp who it was intended should accompany us. we found him indisposed and waited one day for him, when all together proceeded to the Anadarko village where we arrived on the 22nd Ulto. We there continued until the 1st of March, but Capt Sanchez being no better we then left, taking with us the presents sent by you, through Sanchez, for the Comanche and Acaquash, requesting Sanchez when able to travel, to follow us to the Keechi village. when we arrived at that place we met with the principle Chief of the Tawakoni, and we heard, also, that Aca- quash had left for Washington, likewise, that the Comanche were within 25 miles of us. We examined the instructions sent to Sloat and Sanchez, and thought ourselves authorized by them to present the robe intended for Acaquash unto the Tawakoni Chief, which we accordingly did. By the illness of the old Co- manche woman we were detained at the Keechi village until the 12th Ulto when we left for the Pecan Bayou at which place we were informed we would find the Comanche. on our reaching that point we found they had not been there; we then took a course, intending to make the Clear Fork of the Brazos, while following that course we met with a War Party of four Co- manche from the Rio Grande, who informed us they had come down the Clear Fork and none of their tribe were in that di- rection, as they, themselves, had been some days seeking them. we held a consultation, and as the latest sign seen by them (some two months old) led to the Colorado we concluded all to unite in company and go in that direction, which we accordingly did, and on the 17th Inst. struck the Pecan Bayou of the Colorado. Our horses being weary we rested on the 18th while one of the Comanche, a Captain, went in search of his tribe, but returned in the evening unsuccessful, when he requested us to remain six
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daya and rest our horses while he would go in search of his people; as they might hnve crossed to the Pecos, over from the head of the Colorado, a ride of two days without water; he thought it useless for us to break down our horses in the under- taking, accordingly on the morning of the 19th Inst. in company with the old Comanche woman and little girl he again left us, we remained alone until the 21st when two Comanche came into camp, known to John Conner and the head chiefs of the tribe, who informed us it would be impossible for them to come in to the Council ground at the time required, as all their young men were out in different directions, and could not be called together in time. he made a long talk in reply to your letter, a copy of which I am informed has been forwarded to you, we, also, gave to them the presents Sanchez had placed in our charge sent by you.- on the following morn'ing we parted and returned to the Keechi village where we arrived on the 26th Ulto. there we found Capt Sanchez awaiting us. On the 1st April we leit for Red Bear's town, where we promised the Keechi we would wait four days for them, which we did, and the three following days, they not then coming it was thought advisable by Conner, Sanchez and myself, for one of us to come in to the Council ground and report the progress we had made and on the 10th Ulto in company with Mr J Chisholm (who we there met with) I left for the Council ground where I arrived on the 21st Inst. and reported to Maj Tos. G. Western Superintendent oi Indian Affairs and Cols Neill and W'illiam Commissioners. With much respect I have the honor to be Your Ob't Serv't DANIEL G. WATSON [Endorsed] To his Excellency Gen'! Sam Houston President of the Republic, Washington, Texal!
No. 22
LETTER FROM WALTER WINN TO SAM HOUSTON
Council groimd Tehuacana Creek May 4, 1844
To his Excellency Genl Sam Houston
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President of the Republic of Texas, Sir,
Since closing my communica- tion, Acaquash, the Waco Chief has arrived, from whom we gain the following information which at the request of the Com- missioners I have taken down. he said he had been below and seen his white brothers and all was well; he went back to the Waco and Tawakoni, and found all well with them. both par- ties doing right. Houston had made the path white and clean, and a.ll the Indian wished it to be kept so. as to the Lipan and Tonkawa they would have nothing to do with them: they would not molest them but they could not associate with them. they belong to the Brazos and Colorado people. he had told his nation Houston would be here, for Houston had told him so. the Tawe- hasn wished for peace, and were now waiting for a man to be sent to them; they would keep the white path; for though he had not seen them since he saw Houston, yet he knew their wish. he had it correctly from a Waco who had a Tawehash wife, so can be relied on. AIJ the head men say, if Houston will come all will be right. Houston often has told that he would meet them, yet it never occurs: they all think it is very strange: they do not wish to do any thing until Houston comes. the young men, women, children, all, are now coming to see Houston, and get presents he had promised them at Washington. Last Winter the Comanche told him to come down and make peace fer they were weary of liv'ing so, but when at Washington he did not speak as he heard others had been sent. He had heard one man had stolen six American horses but after found it was from the Comanche, and heard, also, the family on the Trinity was killed by the Kickapoo.-he said we must write you to come, or nothing could be done, the young men wish to see and know what sort of a man you are; could they see you and hear you speak, there would be no trouble then, in getting the Comanche tc, come in; they, the Waco, all know you are at Washington, but they want to see you here, and he had faithfully promised them that they should meet you here.-They will be at the Council ground in three or four days. There are 54 men, 35 women and 19 children (Waco and Tawakoni). The two tribes live to- gether. part are now at their village planting corn. it is situ- ai:ed on the Trinity, and no village between here and there. The Chiefs Ke-chi-ka-roqua and Tahwahkerro [sic] [Narhash-
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