Full text of "Annual report of the commissioner of Indian affairs to the secretary of the interior"

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REPORT

Public Library

. OF TUB

COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS

FOR

THE YE^R 1866.

WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICR
I860.

Extract from report of tlie Secretary of Interior.

The voluminous report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs exhibits in de
tail the condition of this difficult and important branch of the public service.
The numerous treaties recently negotiated with various Indian tribes have greatly
augmented the labors of the department, and the constant pressure of emigration
into the Indian territory produces conflicts of interest which require judicious
management to adjust and control. The Commissioner sets forth the terms and
stipulations of those 'treaties. The Indian tribes of the southwest have resumed
their former friendly relations with the government, and it is hoped that they will
succeed in fully adjusting the differences which have heretofore existed among
them in consequence of the different attitudes they were induced to assume towards
the United States during the rebellion.

There are before the Senate some important treaties with the Indian tribes in
Utah, Kansas, and Dakota, to which the attention of that body is respectfully
invited. Several treaties recently negotiated with Indian tribes in the northwest
will be submitted to you at an early day, to be laid before the Senate for its con-
sideration and action. It is believed that, should they be ratified and faithfully
executed, peaceful relations will be established with powerful tribes occupying a
vast extent of country, who have recently been in hostility to the government.

The Commissioner sxiggests the necessity of further negotiations with some of
the Indians in Kansas, with a view to their removal from that State ; and also
with the Indian tribes in Idaho, New Mexico, and Dakota, for their removal to
and settlement upon reservations to be set apart for their exclusive occupancy
and use. These suggestions will receive the early and careful consideration of
the department. Collisions and hostility have been of less frequent occurrence
between the whites and the Indians during the past year, than has been gen-
erally believed. Occasionally, depredations have been committed, and raids made
upon emigrants and settlers ; but these are believed to have been greatly exag-
gerated, either by the fears of the inexperienced and timid, or the cupidity and
selfishness of interested and designing speculators. Peace appears to have been
the rule, and hostilities the exception, between the Missisippi river and the Rocky
mountains.

It has been the settled policy of the government to establish the various tribes
upon suitable reservations and there protect and subsist them until they can be
taught to cultivate the soil and sustain themselves. It is no doubt the best, if
not the only, policy that can be pursued to preserve them from extinction.

Numerous recommendations looking to the amelioration of the condition of
these wards of the government, are contained in the Commissioner's report, and
will no doubt receive the attention of Congress.

KEPORT

OF THE

COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

[Mr. COOLEY having resigned as Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Hon. L. V. BOGY suc-
ceeded to the position November 1, 1866.]

ABSTRACT OF RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED IN REPORT OF COMMIS-
SIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

Early attention needed to certain treaties pending in the Senate.

Provisions should be made for treaty arrangements with remaining bands of Santee Sioux
in northeastern Dakota.

Arrangements, by legislation or otherwise, for settlement of Wyandott difficulties.

Laws needed for punishment of crimes in the Indian country.

Revision of system of trade and licenses.

Appropriation of a fund for rescuing and restoring captives to their homes.

Appropriation of a fund for securing memorials of Indians.

Revision of laws relating to depredations.

Appropriation for surveys for allotments to Indians.

Legislation to prevent taxation of Indian lauds.

Reorganization of clerical force of Indian Office.

Reorganization of superintendeucies and agencies.

Increase of salaries of Commissioner and officers.

Special appropriations for education in several superintendencies.

Provisions for a treaty with Coast Range Indians in Oregon.

Increased appropriations in several superintendencies, as Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New
Mexico, &c.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,

Office Indian Affairs, October 22, 1866.

SIR: In presenting my second annual report, I follow the practice of pre-
vious years, of bringing to the attention of the department such topics con-
nected with the Indian service as are of general interest, before proceeding to
particulars relative to the various superintendencies and their subordinate agen-
cies.

It may not be deemed improper to state at the outset that it would be very
agreeable, and that much labor could be saved, if it were possible, consistent
with a fair resume of the business of the year, for these annual reports to be
abridged ; but I have not been able to see how this can be done. It does not
seem a great task to attend to the business of directing the management of
about three hundred thousand Indians ; but when it ^s considered that those
Indians are scattered over a continent, and divided into more than two hundred
tribes, in charge of fourteen superintendents and some seventy agents, whose
frequent reports and quarterly accounts are to be examined and adjusted ; that
no general rules can be adopted for the guidance of those officers, for the reason
that the people under their charge are so different in habits, customs, manners,
and organization, varying from the civilized and educated Cherokee and Choc-
taw to the miserable lizard-eaters of Arizona ; and that this office is called upon

2 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

to protect the Indian, whether under treaty stipulations -or roaming at will over
his wild hunting-grounds, from abuse by unscrupulous whites, while at the
same time it must concede every reasonable privilege to the spirit of enterprise
and adventure which is pouring its hardy population into the western country ;
when these things are considered, the task assigned to this bureau will not
seem so light as it is sometimes thought. I will endeavor, however, to be as
brief as possible consistent with justice to the subjects embraced in the report.

The labors of the office have been very much increased during the past year
from various causes, nearly all having their origin in the patent fact that the
white population is rapidly crowding westward upon the Indians, either in the
search for farming lands or for the precious minerals ; and the people who have
held these lands are compelled to give way before the advancing tide. If they
are wandering bands, subsisting upon game or the products of the forest, they
must submit to see their resources grow yearly less as the white population ad-
vances ; while, if they have become so far civilized as to be willing to till the
soil, a class of settlers too often gathers around them who regard but little the
rights of the red men. As the years move forward, these difficulties continu-
ally increase. It is the law of nature and of the progress of mankind, and its
operations cannot be stayed. To endeavor to regulate its movement to some
extent is the endeavor of this office, and we may claim to be reasonably suc-
cessful, when the difficulties in the way are considered.

Occupying the chief place among the events of the year, one subject pre-
sents itself first for consideration, to wit, that of

INDIAN TREATIES.

The year 1866 will be memorable as one in which a large number of very
important treaties have been ratified by the government and gone into effect,
most of them having been concluded within the year ; and inasmuch as several
of these treaties have been concluded in this city after long negotiations, the
labors of the office have been very much increased, while, for several' months,
the halls of the department building have been filled with delegates from the
various tribes, comprising all classes, from the educated and intelligent men
representing the nations in the Indian country south of Kansas, to the Chip-
pewas of the far north, near the British line, to whose lands the greed for gold
is leading large numbers of enterprising whites. A brief review of these treat-
ies may not prove uninteresting, and will serve for future reference.

TREATIES MADE IN 1865 AND PREVIOUS THERETO.

Arapahoes and Cheyennes : Concluded with these confederated tribes Octo-
ber 14, 1865, by General Sanborn, General Harney, Superintendent Murphy,
Colonel Carson, Colonel Bent, Agent Leaven worth, and James Steele, commis-
sioners appointed by the President of the United States ; ratification advised
May 22, 1866, with an amendment. Has been sent to the Indians for their
assent to the amendment.

These tribes, by the treaty of Fort Wise, in 1860, ceded a very large tract
of land in Colorado, reserving a tract upon the Arkansas, where their payments
were to be made, and large expenditures were in progress for their permanent
benefit. A considerable portion of the tribes, however, never joined in or con-
sented to that treaty, and when the Sioux of the plains and of Dakota broke
out into hostility, many of the Arapahoes and Cheyennes joined them, there
being large bands of their people living in the Sioux country, not parties to the
treaty referred to. There is no occasion to repeat here the story of the loss of
life and damage to property caused by attacks upon the overland routes, nor of
the exasperation of the people of Colorado, which culminated in the attack, by
a regiment of volunteers of that Territory, under Colonel Chivington, upon a

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 3

band of these Indians who had come in to an appointed rendezvous at the call
of the governor and were determined to keep the peace, and the murder of a
large number of them and dispersion of the remainder. It was felt that the
jgoverninent bad been disgraced by this affair, and that the Indians had just
cause for feeling aggrieved, and the commissioners were authorized to tender
ample reparation for their losses. The Indians were unwilling to return to
their reservation, in Colorado, and other arrangements became necessary in their
behalf. By the treaty concluded with them they cede all right or claim to any
lands formerly held by them, and accept a reservation bounded by the Arkan-
sas river and Red creek, and a line drawn ' northwardly from the head of the
latter stream to the Arkansas, agreeing to concentrate upon any part of that
tract of land when required by the government to do so. It may be remarked
in regard to this location that the commissioners evidently contemplated ar-
rangements to be made with other tribes, since by far the largest portion of the
reservation lies within the lands of the Osages and Cherokees ; while the In-
dians, in agreeing not to approach within ten miles of the route to Santa Fe,
cut themselves off from a considerable portion of the remainder of the tract.
The question of location is still further complicated by the nature of the amend-
ment made by the Senate, which provides 'that their reservation shall not be in
Kansas, and some difficulty is apprehended in settling this very important point.
The Indians agree to peace with the whites and with other tribes, and to ab-
stain from all depredations. They are allowed, until a permanent reservation is
set apart for them, to range the country between the Arkansas and Platte, but
are not to approach within ten miles of the travelled routes. The government
agrees to expend tor their benefit, for forty years, twenty dollars per head until
they go upon a permanent reservation, and forty dollars per head after that
time ; and that the arrears of their annuities under former treaties shall be paid.
It is also provided, especially to heal the wounds caused' by the Chivington
affair, that donations of land shall be secured to the widows and orphans of
those who were killed, and that the property taken from them shall be liberally
paid for. Their numbers are estimated at 2,800 until a census is taken. All
other treaties are abrogated, and the reservation in Colorado becomes the prop-
erty of the United States.

The Apaches, who have heretofore been allied to the Kiowas and Comanches,
were, by treaty concluded October 17, 1865, separated from those tribes and
confederated with the Arapahoes arid Cheyennes, and accept the provisions of

their treaty, their numbers being estimated at until a census is taken.

This treaty was ratified at the same time with that of their new allies.

As is generally the case with the Indian tribes who engage in treaty stipula-
tions, there is a small portion of the Cheyennes, composed mostly of wild and
reckless young men, whom the chiefs are unable to control, and who show a
disposition to continue hostilities and depredations, but there is good reason to
hope that they will be brought to reason and good behavior.

Kiowas and Comanckes : Treaty concluded with these tribes by the same
commissioners, October 18, 1865; ratification advised May 22, 1866, and pro-
claimed May 26, 1866. By the energetic efforts of their agent. Colonel Leav-
en worth, these tribes had been influenced to avoid hostilities, and, with the ex-
ception of a few outlying parties and bands ranging the great plains on the
borders of New Mexico, had been peaceably disposed towards the whites.
They were induced to come in to the appointed rendezvous on the Little Ar-
kansas, in October, 1865, and there agreed to the terms of a treaty, by which
they were to yield all claim to occupancy of any land in Kansas, New Mexico,
or Colorado, and assigned, as a range of country in which to obtain their sub-
sistence by the chase until a permanent reservation should be given to them, a
wide district lying in northwestern Texas and the Indian country. They make
the same pledges of peace and good behavior as the Arapahoes and Cheyennes,

4 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

&c., and the government agrees to expend for their benefit, for forty years, the
sum often dollars per head per year until they concentrate upon a reservation,
and fifteen dollars thereafter. Their numbers are fixed at 4,000 until a census
shall be taken. As the district assigned to these Indians is all in Texas or the
Indian country, special arrangements must be eventually made 'with the parties
owning the lands, when these tribes are required to concentrate in one locality.

Osages : Concluded with them September 29, 1865, by Commissioner Cooley
and Superintendent Sells ; ratification advised by the Senate, with amend-
ments, and amendments sent to them by their agent, Mr. Snow, early in Sep-
tember for their a? sent. The amendments make no material change, and were
accepted by the Indians September 21, 18G6. This treaty is one of great im-
portance, as by it the Indians cede a large quantity of valuable land which the
settlers in Kansas have for some time desired to possess, while its sale makes a
handsome provision for the wants of the Indians. The treaty, in the first place
cedes to the United States a tract about thirty miles in width, from east to west
from the east end of the Osage lands, and adjoining the Cherokee neutral lands
which have been placed in market. Until the settlement of the location of the
southwest corner of this tract, its precise area cannot be stated, but it will prob-
ably be not less than 960,000 acres. For this the government is to pay $300,000,
the interest of which, at five per cent., is for the present to be used for the benefit
of the Indians. The land is to be regularly surveyed and sold at public sale.
After the government has been reimbursed the -cost of the land and of the survey
and sale, the balance realized is to be used by the government as a fund for the
civilization of Indians generally a most beneficent provision, which is thus
happily secured.

Besides the tract above mentioned, the Osages cede to the government, in
trust, a tract twenty miles in width along the whole northern side of their re-
maining reservation. This land, being about two hundred and thirty miles by
twenty, or 2,944,000 acres, is to be surveyed and sold as other public lands, and
the avails invested, at five per cent, interest, for the benefit of the Indians eighty
thousand dollars of the amount being specially set apart as a school fund. Pro-
visions are made for lands to be reserved for their mission school, and the In-
dians are to remove within their diminished reserve within six months from the
ratification of the treaty. It is also provided that if future arrangements shall
be made for removing the tribe entirely from Kansas into the Indian country,
one-half of the proceeds of their lands may be devoted to the purchase of their
new home in that region.

Dakota or Sioux Indians: Nine treaties concluded last year with as many
bands of Sioux, by the commission appointed by the President, consisting of
Governor Edmunds, Superintendent Taylor, General Curtis, General Sibley,
Rev. H. W. Reed, and Orrin Guernsey, were submitted to the Senate, and their
ratification advised March 5, 1S66, and the treaties were proclaimed March 17,
1866. Below is appended a list of the bands thus treated with, with the esti-
mated number of persons belonging to each band :

Two Kettles 1, 200 persons.

Lower Brules 1, 200 persons.

Oncpapas 1, 800 persons.

Mhmeconjons 2, 220 persons.

Yanctonuais 2, 100 persons.

Sans Arcs 1, 680 persons.

Upper Yanctonnais 2, 400 persons.

Ogallallas 2, 100 persons.

Blackfeet Sioux 1, 320 persons.

Total 16, 020 persons.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 5

The nine treaties above referred to are all of the same tenor, and establish
peace with the various tribes of Sioux of Dakota, with whom hostilities had con-
tinued for two or three years, at great cost to the government. The Indians
agree to abstain from all hostilities with the whites and with other tribes, and
in case of differences with other tribes to submit them to the arbitration of the
government ; to allow the establishment of routes of travel through their country,
and to place no obstacles in the way of any of their people who may be dis-
posed to turn to the pursuit of agriculture for a living. The government, in
view of the fact that the buffalo and other game, by means of which these no-
madic tribes subsist, are being driven from the country by the whites who
traverse it, agrees to pay the Indians, at different points, in goods adapted for
their use, at the rate of about fifteen dollars per head per annum, and whenever
any of them will settle down to the cultivation of the soil, to increase this
amount to twenty-five dollars per hea.d ; and when one hundred lodges shall
concentrate for that purpose, an agency to be established for them and a farmer
employed to instruct them. These treaties were made in the fall of 186f, and
the Indians, in spite of the great suffering from cold and want of food, endured
during the very severe winter of 186^-'66, and consequent temptation to plunder
to procure the absolute necessaries of life, faithfully kept the peace. In several
of the bands, some of the chiefs stated their intention to plant corn at various
places, and portions of two or three bands have come in at Crow creek, (aban-
doned by the Santee Sioux,) and at the Yancton reservation, and seem disposed
to make a fair attempt to abandon their wandering mode of life. It may prop-
erly be stated here that, on the occasion of the visit of the commissioners to the
Upper Missouri during the last summer, they were met by several chiefs of the
Yanctonnais who were not present at the treaty of the previous year, and who
affixed their signatures to a copy of the treaty, in testimony of their satisfaction
with its provisions. It may reasonably be hoped that, by careful and judicious
management of these tribes, and a scrupulous fulfilment of the stipulations of
the treaties made with them, no further occasion will arise for expensive mili-
tary expeditions to be employed in compelling them to keep the peace.

Nes Perces: Concluded June 9, 1863 ; ratification advised by the Senate,
with an amendment, which awaits the action of the Indians. The ratification
of this treaty has been delayed for several years for various reasons, partly aris-
ing from successive changes in the superintendent of Indian affairs in Idaho,
whose varying opinions upon the subject of the treaty have caused doubts in the
minds of senators. A later treaty had been made, but on careful consideration
of the subject it was deemed advisable to carry into effect that of 1863. The
Nes Perces claimed title to a very large district of country comprised in what
are now organized as Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, but principally within
the latter territory, and already a large white population is pressing upon them,
in the search for gold. They are peaceable, industrious and friendly, and, alto-
gether, one of the most promising of the tribes west of the Kocky mountains,
having profited largely by the labors of missionaries among them. By the treaty
now ratified, they cede all their lands except a reservation defined by certain
natural boundaries, and agree to remove to this reservation within one year.
Where they have improvements upon lands outside of it, such improvements are
to be appraised and paid for. The tillable lands are to be surveyed into tracts
of twenty acres, and allotted to such Indians as desire to hold lands in severalty.
The government is to continue the annuities due under former treaties, and in
addition, pay the tribe, or expend for them, for certain specific purposes having
their improvement in view, the sum of $262,500, and a moderate sum is devoted
to houses and salaries for chiefs. The right of way is secured for roads through
the reservation, and the government undertakes to reserve all important springs
and watering places for public use.

Klamaths and Modocs and Yahooskin Snakes : Concluded October 14,

6 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

1864; ratification advised, with amendments, July 2, 1866. This treaty is one
of great importance, as it obtained a cession of a tract of land in the central and
southern part of Oregon, amounting to about 11,500,000 acres, reserving from
this, however, a tract of moderate extent around and including the Klamath
lakes, for a permanent home for these Indians and others who may be located
upon it. This cession is obtained at a less expenditure of money than any
other of like extent for many years. The government agrees to expend in the
aggregate, for the benefit of the Indians, during a term of fifteeen years, the
sum of $80,000, besides paying $35,000 for the establishment of the Indians
upon the reservation. Grist and saw mills, mechanics' shops and agency build-
ings are to be erected and kept in repair for twenty years, and the employes
paid by governmment ; while provisions are made for the eventual survey and
allotment of the lands when the condition of the Indians may demand such
action.

Woll-pah-pe Snakes: Concluded August 12, 1865; ratification advised July
5, 1866, and proclaimed July 10, 1866. This is a supplementary treaty to the
one next preceding, and brings the tribe within the provisions of that treaty
with little additional expenditure. The band cedes a considerable tract of land
in central Oregon, and is to receive $5,000 towards the expenses of removal
to and settlement upon the Klamath Lake reservation, and to have $2,000 per
annum expended in its behalf for the first five years after the ratification of the
treaty, and $1,200 per annum for the next ten years. The long delay in the
ratification of these treaties has made a portion of the Indians quite uneasy, but
it is hoped that when they learn that the funds are ready to be used for their
benefit, they will come in peaceably to the reservation, and enjoy the great ad-
vantages secured to them.

Chippewas of Saginaw, fyc.: Concluded October 18, 1864; ratification advised
May 22, 1866, with amendment: amendment accepted June 18, 1866, and pro-
claimed August 16, 1866. By this treaty, the Indians release to the govern-
ment certain townships reserved to them upon the Saginaw bay, in Michigan,
and also yield the right heretofore held by them to locate certain lands elsewhere
in that State. The government sets apart for their use all the unsold land in
six townships in Isabella county. The sum of $20,000 is to be given them for
a manual labor school, to be under the charge of the Methodist Board of Mis-
sions, if they will expend $3,000 in the erection of buildings.

Ornakas: Concluded March 6, 1865; ratification advised February 13, 1866;
ratified February 15, 1866. In the early spring of 1864, the Winnebagoes,
who had been removed to a reservation far up the Missouri river, but, being un-
able to obtain a living .upon it, had abandoned it, and spent the winter amidst
much suffering in the vicinity of Fort Kandall, came down the river and sought
a temporary refuge with the Omahas in Nebraska ; and this treaty was made
with the latter tribe in order to provide a permanent home for the Winnebagoes.
The Omahas had more land than they needed, being about to accept allotments
and settle down to the practice of agricultural industry, and readily agreed to
sell nearly half of their reservation to the government, receiving therefor $50,000,
to be expended for goods, provisions, cattle, and buildings, and also obtaining
the extension of the provisions of article eight of their former treaty for ten years.
They also are to receive $7,000 for damages done to their reservation by the
Winnebagoes previous to the treaty.

Winnebagoes: Concluded March 8, 1865; ratification advised with amend-
ment February 13, 1866; amendment accepted February 20, 1866; proclaimed
March 28, 1866. The general purposes of this treaty are stated above. The
Winnebagoes have suffered sadly of late years, from no fault of their own. The
exasperated state of mind in which the frontier settlers of Minnesota were left
by the Sioux massacre of 1862 left no alternative but to remove the Winneba-
goes from the State, the very garden of which they owned, and tilled the lands

KEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 7

with much industry. They were promised as good a location elsewhere, but
the location selected was a mistake, and the tribe suffered terribly during its
first winter at Crow creek. They have been remarkably patient during the
three years which have elapsed since their removal from Minnesota, and very
anxious to be placed in a position where they can again set about the cultiva-
tion of the soil. In the treaty now referred to, Congress has been liberal with
them. They release to the United States the Crow Creek reservation, and are
to have erected for them a steam saw and grist mill, and to receive 100 cows,
400 horses, 20 yoke of oxen and wagons ; all the necessary buildings for a com-
plete agency are to be erected for them, and they are to be paid the expenses of
removing and of subsistence for one year. The work upon their buildings and
breaking of land for farms has been rapidly prosecuted during the summer and
fall, and a year or two of good management will place them in a very comforta-
ble condition again.

Poftawatomies: Supplementary to treaty of 1861; concluded March 29,
1SG6; ratification advised April 26, 1866, and proclaimed May 5, 1866. This .
treaty has but a single provision, extending to women the samp rights of citi-
zenship and share in the capital fund of the tribe as was heretofore provided for
the adult males of the tribe.

TREATIES MADE IN 1866.

Bois Fort band of Chippewas : Concluded April 7, 1866; ratification advised,
with amendments, April 26, 1866 ; amendment accepted April 28, 1866; ratified
by the President May 5, 1866. These Indians are a portion of the Chippewas
of Lake Superior, who were parties to the treaty of September, 1854, by which
a large cession of land was made to the government, and a division was made
of the annuities due to the great body of Chippewas, the bands being divided
between two agencies one in Wisconsin, the other in Minnesota. The Bois
Fort band, living in the far north near the British line, were separately provided
for, and provision was made for the selection for them at a future time of a res-
ervation, which by subsequent action was partially located near Vermillion
lake. Within the last two years discoveries of gold have been made in that
region, and the attention of whites was turned to the country, and several ex-
peditions were fitted out for its exploration. The Indians became alarmed and
excited on account of this invasion of their country, and the probability of col-
lision between the parties made it desirable that an attempt should be made to
obtain peaceable possession of the country, and render it subject to entry as
other public lands. A delegation from the tribe accordingly visited this city.
It was found for some time impracticable to effect any arrangement with them,
as sundry parties had filled their minds with extravagant ideas as to the extent
of country which the Indians owned, and of its value as a gold region. This
band, in the treaty referred to above, had reserved its rights in the Chippewa
land west of the western boundary of the cession of 1854, and this, together
with their right to a reservation, not yet clearly defined, was all that could be
conceded to them. After much negotiation the treaty was finally made, by
which they ceded all rights to any land whatever except two reservations, to
be selected as soon as practicable one of 100,000 acres, including Net lake;
the other of one township at the mouth of Deer. creek; these locations, however,
being subject to the contingency that they should not be such as would lead to
conflict between the white miners and settlers and the Indians. The govern-
ment agrees to establish a blacksmith shop and school-house, to build eight
houses for chiefs, an agency house and storehouse, to expend annually for the
tribe for twenty years $14,000, and to pay $30,000 for the establishment of the
band upon its new reservation and for presents to the tribe, and to pay $10,000
for the transportation and expenses of the delegation to this city. Under ins true-

8 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

tions from the department, the reservations above provided for are to be selected
this fall.

Delawares: Concluded July 4, 1866; ratification advised July 26, 1866;
and proclaimed August 10, 1866. This tribe has for many years been friendly
to the whites, and has exhibited a commendable disposition towards improve-
ment in civilization. Many of them are well educated, speak and write English
with fluency, and cultivate fine farms to good advantage. The majority of the
tribe, however, do not seem to profit, as might be expected, from their advan-
tages of location and the large income of their trust funds. They have become
satisfied that, although they have sold most of their large tract of land, and ac-
cepted allotments in several ty, they cannot live peaceably and prosper in the
neighborhood of the whites. Two years ago they made a treaty providing for
the sale of their lands to the Union Pacific Railroad Company, on condition of
the .building of a railroad from the mouth of the Kaw river to Leavenworth ;
but the treaty was delayed in the Senate for various reasons, and meantime
another company had built that railroad. The treaty now made and ratified
provides for the sale of all the remaining lands of the tribe in Kansas, about
100,000 acres, to the Missouri River Railroad Company, except such as is held
by Indians who may elect to remain in Kansas and become citizens. A new
home in the Indian country is to be selected for such as decide to remove, and
detailed provisions are made for the progress towards citizenship of those who
remain; and the purchase, from their own funds, -of a home for those who will
remove. Provisions are also made for the settlement of certain claims of the
Indians against the government.

We come now to the series of treaties made with the tribes or nations resident
in the Indian country south of Kansas. In the annual report of this office for
1865 a very full statement and report was made of the conferences at Fort
Smith, Arkansas, resulting in a preliminary treaty with those tribes, by which
general terms of peace were established, they having to a greater or less extent
engaged in the rebellion against the government, and it was agreed that dele-
gates should be sent to Washington for the purpose of concluding formal trea-
ties with each tribe or nation for the settlement of all questions of difference
arising from the war, and for re-establishing the Indians upon their lands, under
clearly defined provisions, applying to all classes of their population. With this
purpose in view, the Gherokees, Creeks, Seminoles, and Choctaws and Chicka-
saws, appeared in this city in January, 1866, by their representatives duly chosen,
there being double delegations in some cases, respectively representing two
parties in each nation those who had remained loyal to the government and
true to their treaty stipulations, and those who had taken part in the rebellion.
These negotiations were carried on, on the part of the government, by the Com-
missioner of Indian Affairs in connexion with Colonel E. S. Parker, and Super-
intendent Sells. Four principal points came up for settlement, to wit :

The proper and just method of adjusting affairs between the loyal and dis-
loyal, this point applying especially to the Cherokees, where confiscation laws,
passed by the national council, had taken effect upon the property of those who
were disloyal.

The proper relations which the freedmen should hereafter hold towards the
remainder of the people.

A fair compensation for losses of property occasioned to those who remained
loyal by the disloyal party.

Cession of lands by the several tribes to be used for the settlement thereon
of Indians whom it is in contemplation to remove from Kansas.

The first tribe with which arrangements were consummated was the

Seminoles: Concluded March 21, 1866; ratification advised July 19, 1866;
proclaimed August 16, 1866. By this treaty renewed pledges of peace and
friendship are made, and a complete amnesty for all offences arising from the

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 9

rebellion. Slavery is entirely abolished, and the freedmen placed upon an
equal footing with the remainder of the people. This equality was the more
easily accomplished in the case of the Seminoles, since there had already been
a considerable intermingling of the races before the tribe removed from Florida,
and several of the interpreters accompanying the delegation representing the
tribe appeared to be of purely African blood. The Indians cede to the gov-
ernment the entire domain secured to them by the treaty of 1856, amounting
to (estimated) 2,169,080 acres, for which they receive the sum of $325,362.
They receive a new reservation of 200,000 acres at the junction of the Canadian
river with its north fork, for which they pay $100,000, and the balance (of
$22/>,362) is to be paid as follows : $30,000 to establish them upon their new
reservation ; $20,000 to purchase stock, seeds, and tools ; $15,000 for a mill ;
$50,000 to be invested as a school fund ; $20,000 as a national fund ; $40,362
lor subsistence,* and $50,000 for losses of loyal Seminoles, to be ascertained by
a board of commissioner^. A right of way for railroads is granted through the
new reservations, and $10,000, or so much as is necessary, is to be expended
for agency buildings. The Indians agree to the establishment, if Congress
shall so provide, of a general council in the " Indian country," to be annually
convened, consisting of delegates from all the tribes in the proportion of their
numbers respectively, and to have power to legislate upon matters relating to
the intercourse and relations of the several tribes resident in that country, the
laws passed to be consistent with treaty stipulations and the Constitution of
the United States. This council is to be presided over by the Superintendent
of Indian Affairs. (It will be seen hereafter that this plan is more fully car-
ried into effect in the treaty with the Choctaws and Chickasaws.) The Semi-
noles ratify the diversion of annuities made during the war for the support of
refugees, but the payments due under their former treaties are to be renewed
and continued as heretofore. They grant six hundred and forty acres of land
to each society which will erect mission or school buildings, to revert, however,
to the tribe when no longer used for its proper purpose.

The next treaty in this series was made with the confederated nations of
Choctaws and Chickasaws : Concluded April 28, 1866 ; ratification advised,
with an amendment, June 28, 1866 ; amendment accepted July 2, 1866, and
proclaimed July 10, 1866.

This treaty, in its careful attention to all details deemed necessary, is the
most complete of the series, and when its various provisions are brought into full
operation, will establish the confederated tribes upon a basis of enduring pros-
perity. It contains, of course, the usual provisions for the re-establishment of
peace and friendship, of amnesty, and the abolition of slavery in every form.
The Indians cede to the government the whole of that tract of land known as
the "leased lands," which have been long held (rented by the government) for
the use of Indians removed from Texas, and amounting to 6,800,000 acres.
For this the government is to pay $300,000, to be invested at five per cent,
interest until laws are passed by the Choctaws and Chickasaws providing
full rights, privileges, and immunities, and grants of forty acres of land each for
their freedmen, which laws are to be passed within two years. If so passed,
that sum, with its accumulated interest, is to be paid, three-quarters to the
Choctaws and one quarter to the Chickasaws. If such laws are not passed,
then the $300,000 to be kept and used by government for the benefit of the
freedmim. Eight of way is granted for railroads through the reservations
upon compensation for damages done to property, and the tribes may subscribe
to the stock of such roads in land, such subscriptions to be first liens on the
roads. The provisions in regard to a general council are agreed to with more
detail than in the other treaties, and its powers clearly defined, so as to estab-
lish, for many purposes not inconsistent with the tribal laws, a territorial gov-
ernment, with the Superintendent as governor, the Territory being named

10 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

" OklaJioma" Provision is made for a secretary of the council, and for pay of
members, and for a marshal of the Territory ; and a clause is added looking to
the establishment of an upper house, to consist of one member for each tribe.
The educational funds of the Indians under former treaties are to remain in-
vested, and payments under former treaties to be renewed. Provision is made
for surveying and allotting the reservations when desired, and for the return to
the Indian country of scattered members of the tribes. Land is set apart for
county buildings and for religious and educational purposes. Indians from
Kansas are to be received with equal privileges with the people of the two
tribes, though not to participate in annuities, and land for their use is to be
paid for at $1 per acre. Members of these tribes are to be received as com-
petent witnesses in United States courts. Criminals taking refuge in their
country are to be returned upon requisition. Post offices are to be established
in the country. A commission is to ascertain and report the 'losses by loyal
Indians by being driven from the country, and another the losses alleged to
have occurred to certain traders, the amounts to be paid from the tribal funds
held by the government.

The next treaty in this series was made with the

Creeks: Concluded June 14, 1866; ratification advised, with amendment,
July 19; amendment accepted July 23, and proclaimed August 11, I860.

This treaty re-establishes peace and friendship, declares amnesty for past
offences, arid establishes the freedmen in full equality of rights and privileges,
as well as a share in the national soil and fun 3s. The adjustment of this
question occupied a long time. But one delegation from the Creeks appeared
here at first, and with them a treaty was made which recognized the rights of
the freedmen to full equality; but, at about the time this treaty was made,
other delegates came on, representing the southern or " disloyal " Creeks, who
constituted about one-half of the people, and strenuously opposed the consum-
mation of the treaty on account of this very provision. They engaged able
counsel, and, as the result of their opposition, the treaty came back from the
President for revision. It appeared at one time as if all negotiations must fail,
and the Commissioners, knowing the necessity of some settlement of the affairs
of the people and relief for the destitute among them, were disposed to urge
the national delegates to yield the point for the present, but they held out
firmly for their freedmen, urging that when the brave old Opothleyoholo, re-
sisting all the blandishments of the rebel emissaries, and of his Indian friends,
stood out for the government, and led a large number of his people out of the
country, fighting as they went, abandoning their homes, they promised their
slaves that if they would remain also faithful to the government they should be
free as themselves. Under these circumstances the delegates declined to yield,
but insisted that that sacred pledge should be fulfilled, declaring that they
would sooner go home and fight and suffer again with their faithful friends
than abandon the point. They were successful at last, and the treaty guaran-
tees to their freedmen full equality. The Indians cede to the government, to
be used for the settlement thereon of other Indians, the west half of their do-
main, estimated at 3,250,560 acres of land, for which the government is to pay
$975,168, in the following manner: $200,000 to enable the Creeks to reoccupy
and restore their farms and improvements, to pay the damages to mission
schools, and to pay the salary of the delegates to Washington; $100,000 to be
paid for losses of soldiers enlisted in the United States army, and to loyal
refugees and freedmen ; $400,000 to be paid per capita to the Creeks as it
may accrue from the sale of lands ; interest on the last two sums, at five per
cent., to be used for the Creeks, at the discretion of the Secretary of the In-
terior ; and the remaining sum due, or $275,000, is to be invested at five per
cent., and the interest paid to the Indians annually. The amounts due to sol-
diers and refugees are to be ascertained under direction of the superintendent

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 11

and agent, and reported to the department for approval. Right of way for
railroads is provided. The western boundary is to be surveyed at the expense
of the United States. An amount not exceeding $10,000 is to be expended
by the United States in the erection of agency buildings upon the diminished
reservation. The provisions for a general council are the same as in the Sem-
inole treaty. Annuities, a<? provided in former treaties, are to be renewed and
continued. The government to pay $10,000 for expenses of negotiating this
treaty, if so much be necessary.

The last of the four treaties with tribes in the " Indian country " was made
with the

Cherokees: Concluded July 19, 1866; ratification advised with amendment
July 27; amendment accepted July 31, and proclaimed August 11, 1866.
More difficulty was experienced in arriving at the consummation of a treaty
with the Cherokees than with any of the other tribes or nations of the Indian
country. This difficulty had been previously encountered by the commissioners
at Fort Smith, in 1865, though the issue was postponed by the agreement of the
delegates there present to come to this city, with the view of making a treaty.
A brief statement of the causes of the trouble may not prove uninteresting.
Quite early in the late war, the proper authorities of that nation, the late John
Ross being the principal chief and manager of their affairs, made a treaty with
the rebel States, and employed every practicable means of engaging the other
tribes upon the same side. It will be well to remember that the Cherokee nation
had long been divided into two factions known as the Ross and Ridge parties,
whose quarrel dates back to the time when the people lived in Georgia, and
that blood had been frequently shed in their quarrels. The Ridge party favored
the treaty by which the removal to the west was effected, while the Ross party
opposed ; but after that removal, the latter, being the most numerous, obtained
and kept the ascendency, and practically ruled the nation. There were many
men of intelligence, education, and ability upon both sides, and the old jealousies
have been fostered and increased from year to year; the Ridge party, under the
late leadership of Stand Watie and others, endeavoring to secure a division of
the national domain and funds, which the Ross party as strenuously opposed;
the former party readily entered into the late war, doubtless hoping to succeed
in their private plans of secession, as well as in those of a larger scale. As to
the motives of the other party, then holding the national power, it is charitable
to say that they are doubtful. Judging from the cotemporary records, it seems
clear enough that Ross and his party at all events believed that the rebellion
would succeed, hoped for its success, and were sincere in joining it ; but their
delegates and counsel very strenuously insisted here that the action of their coun-
cil in making a treaty with the rebels was only a diplomatic ruse a temporary
expedient to enable them to hold together until the federal forces should appear
for their protection. Wherever the truth may lie between these two extremes,
it is certain that after hostilities had continued for a year and a half, the Chero-
kees in considerable force fighting on the side of the rebellion, the federal forces
advanced into the Indian country, and one regiment of Cherokees deserted to
their side. Ross reconvened the national council, and forthwith and henceforward
these Cherokees were "loyal," and commenced and carried into effect severe
confiscation laws, operating principally upon the members of the Ridge party,
who remained true to the confederacy ; while nearly three thousand of the people
at one time or another were enlisted on the Union side. The end of the war came
at last, and the commission of 1865 met at Fort Smith delegates from both
factions, those of the Ridge or Watie party ready to meet all the views of the
government, and asking its protection from the confiscation laws which had
excluded them from their homes ; looking to a separation of interests from the
remainder of the tribe, and excusing themselves for taking up arms against the
government by laying the responsibility upon the shoulders of the council;

12 REPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

while the Boss party held aloof, in great independence of spirit, leaving it
quite doubtful for some time whether they would consent to treat at all ; claim-
ing that as a thoroughly loyal people, who had been fighting the battles of the
Union, they were entitled to sole consideration, and that the government could
not properly interfere with the independent action of their national council
towards their rebellious citizens.

Two delegations, representing these opposing views, came on to Washington,
and conference after conference ensued, now with one party now with the other.
Both sides had engaged as counsel gentlemen eminent for legal ability, who
appeared in their behalf on many occasions, where the discussions of the im-
portant question at issue were marked with great interest Draught after draught
of treaties was made, and several clearly agreed upon, when some new difference
would arise, and all arrangements be overturned. The so-called southern dele-
gates insisted that their people must be separated from the remainder of the
nation that they-could not^and would not live with them; while the other
party, with whom alone, as holding the national organization, the government
could treat, except as a last resort, insisted that the nation should not be
divided. About the middle of June, the commissioners, despairing of a satis-
factory arrangement with the national party, made a treaty with the others,
whose marked feature was a provision that the southern party, though not
formally separated from the nation, should be allowed a certain part of the ter-
ritory for their exclusive use and occupancy; they agreeing to sell their right
to certain portions of the national domain. This treaty was not, however, laid
before the Senate ; but after another month of negotiation, a treaty was finally
concluded on the 19th of July, which, although not entirely satisfactory to any
party, was the best possible settlement of the matter attainable. While it par-
tially satisfied the national party by continuing the nation, as such, under one
constitution and government, it nevertheless secures the other party from appre-
hended persecution by the national authorities by locating them in a specific
part of the domain, and providing that suits between Cherokees belonging to
the opposing portions of the people shall be tried in the United States courts.
The general features of the treaty are as follows :

The treaty made with the rebel States October 7, ] 861, is repudiated by the
Cherokees, and the government grants an amnesty for all past offences. The
Indians agree to repeal their confiscation laws, and that the southern or Watie
party may settle in a part of their country known as the "Canadian district,"
where also any of the freedmen may locate themselves ; the portion of country
set apart for them amounting to 160 acres for each person. Those who settle
in that part of the domain may select their own judges, and make their own
police regulations, and elect delegates to the national council. The President
of the United States is to hold the power of reviewing the police regulations
made by the council, and all cases between opposing parties belonging to the
different portions of the nation are to be adjudicated in the United States district
court nearest the Cherokee country. A United States court is to be established
in the territory. All distinctions between the two portions of the people may
be abrogated by the President at the desire of those parties. No licenses to
trade (except in the Canadian district) are to be granted except by consent
of the council. Slavery is abolished, and the full rights of the freedmen are
acknowledged. The right of way for railroads is secured; consent is given to
a general council as in the Seminole treaty. Land is set apart for church and
school sites. Provisions are made for the settlement of friendly Indians of other
tribes among the Cherokees in two methods, either by abandoning the.ir own
tribal organization and becoming practically a part of the Cherokee nation, and
residing in the more compactly settled and eastern part of the domain, or by
retaining their tribal existence and settling further west ; in either case land
occupied by them to be paid for at prices to be agreed upon between the govern-

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 13

ment and the Cherokees. The tract of 800,000 acres in Kansas, known as the
neutral lands, is ceded to the government in trust, to be surveyed and sold for the
benefit of the Indians, the proceeds to be invested for them in the proportion of
35 per cent, for education, 15 per cent, for an orphan fund, arid 50 per cent, for
the national fund. But this tract may be sold in one body for cash, at $1 per
acre, the intention of the language referring to a sale "for cash," well
understood by both parties to the treaty, being to exclude the receipt of a large
amount of depreciated Cherokee scrip in payment for these lauds; the experience
of the department as to the receipt of scrip representing Indian indebtedness in
payment for lands, as in the case of the Sacs and Foxes, Kaws, and other tribes,
being unfavorable. But a question has arisen whether the actual language of
the treaty does not absolutely preclude the sale of the lands upon any terms of
credit whatever. All sums belonging to heirs of deceased soldiers remaining
unclaimed after two years are devoted to an asylum for orphans of soldiers.
Provisions are also made for the payment of $10,000 for certain supplies fur-
nished to Creeks, and for damages done to missionary establishments during
the war.

TREATIES PENDING IN THE SENATE.

There still remain unacted upon some important treaties one made in the fall
of 1865, by Superintendent Irish, with various tribes in Utah, ceding all rights
of occupancy of lands in that Territory, except the Uintah Valley reservation,
for a consideration in the form of annual payments in goods and for beneficial
objects ; another with the Shawnees, early in the present year, making provi-
sion for the sale of their lands in Kansas, the purchase of another location for
them in the Indian country, the removal of those who chose to go and retain
their tribal state, and measures for obtaining full citizenship by those who re-
main ; also a treaty made June 11, 1864, with the Kansas tribe of Indians,
providing for the sale of their remaining lands in that State, and their removal
to the Indian country ; and a treaty made with the Poncas, March 10, 1865,
for an exchange of certain lands and payment of claims.

It is to be hoped that these treaties will receive early consideration during
the next session of Congress.

TREATIES NOT YET SUBMITTED TO THE SENATE.

A treaty was made in December, 1865, by Agent Upson, under instructions
from the department, with the Blackfeet Indians of Montana, and with the
Gros Ventres of that Territory, by which all the Blackfeet country south of the
Missouri was ceded; but as advices reached this office of the Indians having
almost immediately broken out into hostility, and thus violated their treaty
stipulations, it was not deemed advisable by the late Secretary to send the pa-
pers to the President. Advices received from Montana, in the annual report of
the governor and superintendent, justify this action.

A treaty was made in the early spring of 1866, by the late Governor Lyon,
of Idaho, with certain bands of Bannacks and Snake Indians in the southeast-
ern portion of that Territory ; but this has also been retained in the files of
this office for further consideration upon information to be received from Gov-
ernor Lyon's successor. The accounts of frequent collisions in that quarter
between the miners and travellers and the Indians, make it quite evident that
some kind of arrangement with those Indians is desirable.

The northwestern commission of last year was divided into two parts, by
direction of the President, early last spring, and some alterations made in its
persons. Governor Edmunds, General Curtis, Mr. Guernsey, and Rev. Mr.
Heed, proceeded at the earliest possible date after the necessary preparations

14 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

could be made, and transportation obtained up the Missouri river. They met,
at various points, the bands of Sioux treated with last year, and found them-
still peaceably disposed, and many of their people earnestly turning their at-
tention to agriculture. The signatures of several additional chiefs of the Yanc-
tonuais band were obtained to the treaty made last year, and ratified by the
President. There was every apparent reason to be gratified with the result of
the labors of the commission during the previous year.

Proceeding up the Missouri, the commission effected a treaty at Fort Berthold
with the Anckarees, Gros Venires, and Mandans, by which a cession of land of
about twenty-five miles by forty was obtained, and a right of way for roads
through their lands, in return for which certain annual payments in goods and
for beneficial purposes are to be made. These Indians are friendly, and many
of them have long been planting corn with success near Fort Berthold.

The great amount of travel through the country occupied by these Indians,
and those lying above, upon the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers, by persons en
route to and from the gold regions of Montana, interfering greatly with the
game upon which the Indians depend, has made it imperatively necessary that
those routes should be rendered secure to travellers; and, at the same time, jus-
tice to the Indians required a liberal compensation for the damages necessarily
resulting from this invasion of their hunting ranges. The above treaty and
the two which follow are based upon those principles, and look also to the grad-
ual improvement of the Indians, by encouraging them to till the soil, and aban-
don their precarious mode of living.

At Fort Union a treaty was made with the Assinaboines, by which they
cede all their land lying south of the Missouri and north of the Yellowstone as
far west as a line drawn from the mouth of the Powder river northward to Milk
river, and also a smaller tract, including Fort Union, north of the Missouri.
Besides this, they yield the right of way and reservations at suitable places for
stations, ten miles square at each station. For this, they were to receive con-
sideration in goods and in expenditures for beneficial objects.

At the same place the commissioners met and treated with the Crows, secur-
ing a right of way and unmolested travel up the valley of the Yellowstone to
Helena, in Montana, and station reservations of ten miles square. Liberal com-
pensation is provided for this powerful tribe of Indians, and an agency is to be
established for them. ,

The other branch of the commission, consisting of Superintendent Taylor,
Colonel Maynadier, commanding at Fort Laramie, Dakota Territory, Thomas
Wistar, and Colonel McLaren, met at that post, early in the summer, representa-
tives of, and in fact a large part of, the tribes of Ogallalla and western B/ule
Sioux, and concluded with them a treaty, on the 7th of June, of the same gen-
eral tenor with those made with the nine bauds upon the upper Missouri last
year, and securing a promise of uninterrupted use of routes of travel established
through their country. This point in the treaty, as in the cases of the other
bauds referred to, was very reluctantly conceded, but it is believed that those
chiefs who signed the treaty, and all those under their control, being the largest
portion of the bauds, will keep their pledges, though there are wild and uncon-
trollable young men belonging to both bands who have made and will make
trouble.

With the northern bauds of Arapahoes and Cheyennes no treaty was con-
summated ; but consultation was had with some of their number, and arrange-
ments made which will, it was thought, bring about a treaty at an early day.*

The work accomplished by the northwestern commissions has been a very
important as well as arduous one, and if the series of treaties made by them
shall be ratified and go into full effect, peaceful relations will have been estab-

* A treaty with the Cheyennes has been received since the date of the report.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 15

lislied with powerful tribes, for the most part lately in hostility, ranging over a
territory extending over eight degrees of latitude by twelve in longitude, and
with reasonable hopes of their gradual improvement by the judicious expendi-
ture of the money provided in compensation for their cessions of land, and for
the damage done to their hunting grounds. The final reports of those commis-
sions are full of sound suggestions, and special attention is invited to them as
published in the accompanying documents.

Believing that peace can best be maintained with our Indian tribes, after the
whites begin to encroach upon their ancient hunting grounds, by treaty ar-
rangements, liberal and just in their provisions, and faithfully carried into exe-
cution by the government and its agents, this office urges the continuance of
the policy which has met with such gratifying success during the present and
last year ; and the condition of the Indians of Kansas presses first upon the
attention. Intermingled as the Kansas reservations are with the public lands,
and surrounded in most cases by white settlers, who too often act upon the prin-
ciple that an Indian has no rights that a white man is bound to respect, they
are injured and annoyed in many ways. Their stock are stolen, their fences
broken down, their timber destroyed, their young men plied with whiskey, and
their women debauched, so that while the less civilized are kept in a worse than
savage state, having the crimes of civilization forced upon them, those further
advanced, and disposed to honest industry, are discouraged beyond endurance.
In nearly every tribe the majority desire to remove southward to the Indian
country, and the sale of their Kansas reservations and improvements will fur-
nish the means of purchasing and establishing them in new homes. I see no
other alternative than to provide for their removal as soon as practicable.
Whatever may be the issue of the suit in the Supreme Court in relation to the
questions of taxation and citizenship, we shall know with whom we are to treat
among the tribes which have taken land in severalty, or taken preliminary
steps towards citizenship ; and as to the other tribes, no obstacle exists to im-
mediate action. Should the department sustain the same views, measures will
be taken to carry them into practical effect.

Treaties are imperatively necessary with some of the Indians in Idaho, and
measures should be taken at an early day to effect the necessary arrangements ;
and a proposition is under consideration for bringing upon the Flathead reserva-
tion in Montana, which is amply large, or upon a new reservation in northern
Idaho, various kindred bands in that locality and the eastern part of Washington
Territory.

It has not been the policy of the government to make treaties with the tribes
inhabiting the region ceded by Mexico, although it has been done in some cases ;
but it may be found advisable to do so in the case of sundry tribes in New
Mexico, whom it is desirable to place upon reservations. Certain bands of
Sioux in northeast Dakota remain to be treated with, and suggestions to that
effect can be laid before you as soon as the pressing current duties of this office
will allow of a careful consideration of the subject.

The proposed negotiations will be accompanied with some considerable ex
pense, for which estimates will be made and submitted for your consideration.

No serious hostilities have occurred during the year between the Indians and
whites, although numerous cases of depredations by members of tribes not here-
tofore treated with, or casual raids by them upon frontier settlements or emigrant
trains, have occurred as usual. In all the region from the British possessions to
the gulf of California, with the exception of the region near where the boundary
of Idaho and Oregon meets the Nevada line, the centre portion of Arizona where
the Apaches are always in hostility with both whites and other Indians, and the

16 REPORT OE THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

southern part of Utah, where a small band has been trou&esome, scarcely an
outbreak of any kind has taken place. Between the Rocky mountains and the
Mississippi peace has been the rule. A portion of the Blackfeet, living partly
in the British possessions and partly about the headwaters of the Missouri, have
continued hostile, and some lives and property have been lost. A small portion
of the western Sioux, whose special home and haunts are in the neighborhood of
the Black Hills, northwest of Fort Laramie, refusing to join in the treaty made
at that place in the summer, are said to have attacked and plundered trains on
the way to Montana, and tneir acts have been heralded in the press as evidence
of another Indian war in progress. Nothing would so well please the parties
who are engaged in this business of manufacturing news as " another Indian
war," for they see in it visions of productive contracts, and fine opportunities of
accumulating profits thereby upon transportation and supplies.

Proceeding further south, a few wild, uncontrollable young men of the southern
Arapahoes and Cheyennes are charged with continuing hostilities, but the evi-
dence is very slight against them ; and, considering the delay necessarily occur-
ing in forwarding the goods arid other payments promised in their treaty of
October, 1865, that delay being caused by the delay of Congress in making the
necessary appropriations, it is not to be wondered at that a portion of those tribes
have been restless ; but no serious trouble is now apprehended.

Many depredations upon settlers in New Mexico have also occurred. The
hostility between the Mexican inhabitants arid most of the Indians of that Ter-
ritory appears to be chronic, and will not probably be cured until all the Indians
are collected upon reservations, a very expensive method if prosecuted after the
manner of the management of the Navajos, though to a considerable extent effect-
ual; but, with the aid of Congress in furnishing funds to a moderate extent,
we need not despair of gathering most of the Indians of that territory upon
reservations, where they will soon learn to earn their living by honest labor.

It would be well if those who are so ready to cry out for terrible retribution
upon Indian tribes, for crimes committed by a few of their number, would reflect
that they do not thus demand wholesale vengeance upon white people for casual
offences of individuals ; and if they would further consider that it is a fact sus-
ceptible of proof that, in the majority of cases, Indian outbreaks are caused by
some wanton ill treatment of them by whites. Instances without number could
be cited to establish this assertion, and several such cases are referred to in the
details of this report. Unfaithfulness of government agents is too often the oc-
casion of these troubles, and glaring cases of this have come to light ; but for
every case where hostilities by the Indians have been the result of such miscon-
duct, others may be adduced where the tribes interested have patiently endured
being plundered for years in succession, and have still kept their plighted faith
to the government. How and when these evils are to be cured is a problem
difficult of solution; but so long as superintendents and agents continue to be
selected for any other reason than manifest fitness for an honest, faithful, and
just discharge of their duties, so long may we expect that among them will be
found unfaithful men whose acts provoke the Indians to hostility, fatal always,
in the end, to the wronged party, as being the weakest, but entailing loss of life
and property in its course to many innocent people.

Among other subjects to which your predecessor in his annual report of last
year invited the attention of Congress, was one which merits notice in this con-
nexion. I refer to that of the necessity of providing some effectual code of laws
for the arrest, conviction and punishment of crimes committed by whites against
Indians, or Indians against whites, or by Indians against each other, upon reser-
vations, or in regions chiefly inhabited by Inrians. The intercourse laws, passed
over thirty years since, and apparently sufficient at that time, before the tide. of.
emigration had begun to set strongly towards the frontier, and while none but
occasional hunters or trappers interfered with the occupancy of the country by the

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 17

Indians, are insufficient now, when the white population west of the Mississippi
begins to number its millions. It is much to be hoped that Congress will at its
next session take this subject into careful consideration, and provide a plain,
comprehensive code, by which the superintendents and agents may dispense
justice within their jurisdiction, and the infliction of appropriate penalties may
be rendered certain, whether the offender be red or white. Retaliation is the
law of the Indians ; and if, in his early approaches to civilization, he is compelled
to abandon that law, he looks for a substitute in the white man's law. In too
many cases, indeed almost universally, where a white offender against the rights
or life of an Indian is brought into our courts through the efforts of the agent,
he is sure of acquittal ; but reverse the case, and the Indian almost surely suffers.
It does seem practicable to improve upon this condition of things.

We have laws which provide for the arrest of whites trespassing upon Indian
reservations, but no provision is made for retaining them in custody, or on proper
bail to be tried. So for offences of Indians upon their own people ; they may be
sent to the nearest military post to be confined, and may be, at the will of the
officer in command, released the next day. So we have a law against the settle-
ment of whites upon Indian reservations, and a provision that they may be
ejected by the superintendent or agent, but no provision is made for the expense
of a posse of whites, while the use of an Indian posse is but the beginning of
war upon a small scale, to increase according to circumstances. Your earnest
attention is invited to this subject, as one of great importance to the future
success of the Indian service.

The subject of trade licenses, with its varied ramifications, has enlisted much
attention. Something was done last year towards effecting a reform in this
matter, but much still aumains to be done. It is felt that in spite of all precau-
tions, the most stringent instructions, and the requirement of a special oath or
affidavit from all superintendents and agents granting licenses, that they have not
and do not contemplate any interest with traders; something more is needed
in the shape of a law by Congress which will reach and punish cases of mal-
feasance. One of the most glaring cases of this kind was that of a former agent
at Fort Lararnie, whose conduct, "in connexion with traders, in swindling the
Sioux out of a large portion of their annuities, doubtless had much to do with
the hostilities of those tribes for several years.

This office is somewhat embarrassed as to the proper construction of the recent
enactment by Congress, apparently throwing open the Indian trade to compe-
tition by whoever chooses to enter into it ; but really, as I have felt bound to
construe it, operating only to prevent superintendents or agents from limiting
the number of traders by their own motion, when persons fit to be in the Indian
country apply for licenses. That this is the true construction seems apparent
from the lact that the enactment referred to, being section 4 of the last Indian
appropriation law, especially provides for the continued operation of the regu-
lations of the department concerning licenses; and with those regulations, pre-
pared under an act of Congress, and having the force of law, I have felt com-
pelled to require compliance. Early in the year, this office, in reply to a question
by the department as to the reason why the Indian trade should not be thrown
open to all who choose to engage in it, expressed itself as in favor of a reasonable
competition, but suggested that this competition being provided, it was better to
have as few traders as possible, the incidental evils and temptations of Indian
trade being too great. But beyond this it may be further suggested whether it
is not practicable to provide in a just manner for some such scale of prices of
purchase and sale by traders as applies to the sutlers of the army. Could such
a system be devised and put into practicable operation, we should at once get
rid of sundry serious difficulties.

And in reference to army sutlers, there is a point which seems to demand
serious attention, and the settlement of which will remove existing and prevent
2 ci

18 KEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

apprehended trouble?. At many of onr frontier posts there are sutlers who covet
the trade with the Indians as being- of a profitable character, and their prices, in
cases of sales to Indians, not being limited by the scale fixed by the army
boards. Sometimes these posts are originally established by government; and
in other cases, the military officers have taken possession of portions of build-
ings erected by traders. The sutlers claim the exclusive right to trade within
a certain distance of the flag, and this limit generally includes the protection of
the post. Regularly licensed traders have, in some instances, been warned to
leave after having, in good faith, made large investments in their business.
Long existing regulations of the War Department, which have not been, to my
knowledge, revokrd, require that sutlers must obtain licenses to trade with In-
dians ; but it will be observed, that if the trade is thrown into their hands com-
petition is impossible. It is to be hoped that this subject will again be taken
up by Congress, and a special act, covering the necessary provisions to secure
justice to all parties, be passed.

Another point in connexion with licenses, which would be easily settled if
there were some practicable method of regulating prices of barter and sale by
traders, is that which presses upon this office in the case of some tribes the
advantage to be gained for their true interest by paying their annuities in goods
by their consent. If fair dealing could be relied upon, so that the Indian could
do as well in his purchases of the trader by an order payable at his next regular
payment as he could with the money in hand, there are manifest advantages in
the payment in goods ; for the Indian is improvident, and with the cash in hand
at payment, he, in most cases, wastes it wantonly in gambling, drunkenness, or
in some useless expenditure, doing no good to himself or family ; while, with a
faithful agent to watch his interests, he is sure to obtain, something valuable for
his comfort and that of his wife and children, purchased from time to time, as
needed.

This system, which has prevailed to some extent in the Indian service for a
few years past, of giving the Indians orders upon the traders to the extent of
their annuities, and payable at the next regular payment, has received some
consideration during the past year, and, on the whole, it was deemed advisable
to direct its discontinuance. It is not to be denied that, in some cases, the In-
dians may have profited by it, but until some better safeguards against collusion
and imposition are provided than now exist, it was not deemed proper to con-
tinue it.

The fund, provided some years since, to be used when necessary for rescuing
and providing for captives taken from their homes or from emigrant companies
by Indians, is exhausted, and there are just demands upon it which cannot be
met. Under arrangements made with the Kiowas and Comanches in 186.5, quite
a number of captives taken from Texas by outlying bands of those tribes were
sought out and brought in to the frontier, and some ten or twelve women and
children of this character remained at the Kaw agency, in Kansas, from last
winter until August, awaiting measures to be taken to return them to their
homes, a long and expensive journey, which the department had not the means
to provide for. Such cases occur every year, and humanity towards our race
demands- prompt action in their behalf, and reasonable rewards to those who
rescue them.

It was recommended last year that a moderate appropriation be asked for, to
be used at the discretion of this office in procuring memorials of the various In-
dian tribes, whether portraits of leading men, implements of industry or warfare,
specimens of apparel, &c. This recommendation is respectfully renewed. By
its judicious use a valuable collection of memorials of a race which is fast fading
away may be secured at small expense.

Some settled policy should be adopted in regard to depredation claims against
Indians in particular cases. The law in force requires that where Indians are

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 19

"in amity" with the United States, a certain course shall be taken to present
the claim to them for allowance, to be paid from their annuities if allowed, and
if the tribe has annuities regularly due. The rule of the department has here-
tofore been that only cask annuities could be thus used, funds appropriated for
the purchase of goods not being held liable to be diverted for payment cf claims
against Indians. Of late the almost universal policy employed in our Indian
treaties is to stipulate for no money annuities, but to make all payments in
useful goods, or use certain amounts for beneficial purposes, thus leaving no In-
dian revenue subject to diversion in payment of claims against them. Another
difficulty occurs which has been made the subject of a special report to the de-
partment in connexion with certain claims. The theory of the existing law is,
that where a tribe is in " amity" with the government, and any of its individuals
commit depredations, the tribe can have the opportunity of compelling its delin-
quent member to make restitution, or, upon the facts of the outrage being made
.apparent, of consenting to restitution from the common means of the tribe. But
where peaceable relations are interrupted, from whatever cause, with a whole
tribe, as was the case with the Arapahoes and Cheyennes in 1864, it is imprac-
ticable to present the claim to them for allowance, and they cannot be properly
said to be " in amity with the United States," being in fact at war with the
government. Yet it is contended that, until by solemn act of Congress their
treaties are declared abrogated and their annuities forfeited, as was the case with
the Sioux of Minnesota, such tribes must be held as still, technically, " in amity"
with the government. A decision of these points, and if deemed necessary,
some special enactment of law applicable to the case, would relieve this office and
the department of some embarrassment in cases of claims frequently presented.

Certain very important questions relating to taxation of Indian lands have
become prominent during the past year from circumstances partly arising from
the desire of the Kansas tribes to treat with the government in reference to re-
moval to the Indian country, and partly from the fact that many Indians who
have received lands in severalty have found those lands sold from their posses-
sion at tax sales. Appeals were made in several cases to the courts of Kansas,
but those courts sustained the right of the State to tax lands which had been
patented to Indians, whether they had become citizens or not. In the belief
that it was not just, and not intended by the. government, as it was certainly
not understood by the Indians when making their treaties, that the mere fact of
their accepting lands in severalty should per se break up their tribal relations
and render 1^iem subject to the obligations of citizens, measures have been taken
to appeal some of these cases to the Supreme Court of the United States, and it
is expected that they will be reached at the next term of that court. A recent
report from Superintendent Murphy shows that the aggregate amount of the taxes
upon Shawnee lands is over $60,000.

A point of great importance will be incidentally decided when these cases are
reached, since it is claimed that if the final decision is in favor of the right to
tax these Indians, they then become, by virtue of the civil rights bill of last ses-
sion, citizens of the? United States, and thus not capable of taking part in any
treaties to be hereafter made with their people ; and as it is very desirable to
effect treaty arrangements with some of the tribes of Kansas at an early day,
the decision is looked for with much interest. Correspondence showing the state
of this question will be found among the accompanying papers.

The expenses of the Indian service have been largely and unexpectedly in-
creased during the year, beyond the amount estimated, by its being compelled,
to provide for the subsistence of many thousands of suffering people in the "In-
dian country," and for the purchase of a large amount of provisions for supply-
ing Indians to be treated with by the northwestern commissions, and for the
transportation of those supplies to their destination. Until about the time when
the commissioners should have been on the way to meet their appointment with

20 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

the Indians, it had been understood that the War Department would, as it was
supposed that by its established facilities it best could, furnish the supplies and
transportation referred to ; but that department at a late day declined to do so,
and this office was obliged to obtain estimates from Major General Curtis and
other gentlemen whose judgment could be relied upon, and secure a special ap-
propriation from Congress. I deem it proper to state this fact, injustice to this
office and to the department, which has advised and directed in all the steps
taken in this matter, but do not wish to be understood as casting any reflections
upon the War Department, which doubtless had good reasons for its course. It
gives me great pleasure to state that, for the most part, indeed almost without ex-
ception, the relations between the civil and military officers upon the frontier, ne-
cessarily thrown into connexion in\ Indian matters during the year, have been
of the most cordial character, and that our superintendents and agents have had
frequent occasions to ^express their thanks to miiitHry commanders for prompt
and efficient assistance. It is very desirable, however, that the extent to which
military officers are bound to render such assistance should be more clearly de-
fined ; for in some cases officers hesitate to assume the responsibility of affording
it; while, as to others, the existing laws only go so far as to indicate that the mil-
itary may render aid by direction of the President, an appeal to whom would
be in vain for cases of pressing and immediate need, on account of the time ne-
cessarily occupied in the correspondence.

The large amount of back pay and bounty due to Indian soldiers enlisted in
the United States army, and to the heirs of those who have deceased, has ren-
dered it necessary to adopt some rules and regulations by which those funds
could reach, with certainty, the persons entitled to them, and it is thought that
the present arrangements are sufficient for the purpose. At one time within the
year a special agent of the department conveyed to the Cherokee country and
paid to the claimants some $9,500, awarded through the proper department,
giving much needed relief to many suffering Indians. Additional bonds have
been required of the agents, and they have been constituted guardians of the
minor heirs of deceased Indian soldiers, and instructed as to receiving and using
the funds received in their behalf to the best advantage of those interested.

Special efforts have been made for the improvement of our 'Indian schools,
and by correspondence with the r various superintendents and agents, and special
investigations in numerous cases, this office has sought to learn the precise con-
dition of the schools, and thus to arrive at just conclusions as to ^hat is neces-
sary for their improvement. Particularly has this been the case as to the schools
in Kansas and Nebraska, the most accessible of all ; but the more distant agen-
cies have not been forgotten, and such action as has been taken will be men-
tioned under the proper heads in the subsequent part of this report. An earnest
endeavor has been made to awaken or revive the interest of officers and teach-
ers in the work of educating the children of the Indians, as the only means of
saving any considerable portion of the race from the life and death of heathen.
That the labor of reclaiming the American Indian is more difficult than that re-
lating to any other race, is the universal testimony of' those who have devoted
themselves most earnestly to it ; and the reasons for this state of things do not
alone inhere in the nature of the Indians, but arise to a great extent from the
character of the whites with whom they are brought into contact upon the fron-
tier, who are too often unprincipled and reckless, devoid of shame, looking upon
an Indian as a fair object of plunder, and disgracing their race and color, it is
. only to be wondered at that so much good has been accomplished, and there are
many cases of great encouragement to the sincere philanthropist and Christian.

It has been the endeavor of this office to aid in this good work, and much has
already been accomplished, and the way opened for still further progress in the
right direction.

An examination into the merits of the German Kindergarten system, which

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 21

has recently been introduced into this country, has led to the belief that its use
in some of our Indian schools would be advantageous, and accordingly the
necessary books of instruction and practice in the system were procured, and
have recently been placed in the hands of several teachers. The svstem is par-
ticularly adapted to attract to and retain in the schools the younger children,
and great hopes of its success are entertained.

Many of the schools are found to be lacking in the proper supply of books,
charts, and other modern helps and objects of attraction, and measures will be
taken to supply the deficiency as far as the means of this office will allow. Be-
yond the regular appropriation under treaty stipulations with various tribes,
whatever expenses of education accrue must be paid from the limited fund of
$1 0,000, placed at the disposal of the department, and a very careful economy is
necessary. Under the admirable provisions of the Osage treaty, elsewhere men-
tioned, this fund will before long be much increased.

It is gratifying to be able to state that the complaints heretofore justly made
on account of irregularity and tardiness in the shipment of annuity goods across
the plains have had no foundation during the present year. A competent and
active special agent upon the frontier has thoroughly managed this business ;
and the good result is manifest in the fact that we have already been notified
of the arrival of some of the goods at their destination in ample time for distribu-
tion to the Indians, so that they can depart comfortably equipped for their fall
and winter hunt. This is a matter of great importance in preserving peace
among the roving tribes.

The examination of the annual reports and statistical tables discloses the
gratifying fact that the Indians of many tribes are improving in their attention
to agriculture, and that their efforts during the past year h&ve generally been
crowned with success. In some of the agencies the average of annual products
of labor and of individual wealth will compare favorably with frontier settlements
of the whites. It is manifest that misapprehensions exist in the minds of some
of the agents as to the proper method of making up the tables of statistics, so
that we do not yet attain to the full means of comparison as to the progress of
the Indians from year to year ; and it is in contemplation to prepare rules and
and regulations for the preparation of these tables, so that they may be thor-
oughly reliable.

Considerable improvement is shown in the regularity of monthly reports by
superintendents and agents ; and this office is thus able to present an abstract of
matters of interest occurring in some districts whence no annual report* have
been received, but there is still a lamentable want of promptness in forwarding
the annual summary, .which is required to be here by the 1st of October. At
that date, this year, but one or two out of the whole number of reports had been
received.

I beg leave to renew, in the most earnest manner, the recommendations of my
last report in relation to a reorganization of the working force of this bureau.
The reasons which impelled me to those recommendations last year have con-
tinued and increased in force, as the business of every kind has largely increased.
A bill designed to accomplish this necessary reform was prepared, and passed
the Senate alm^t without opposition, but failed to be reached in the House of
Representatives. I regard it as almost indispensably necessary to the proper
conduct and management of the business of the bureau.

It is also very desirable that, at the earliest practicable day, provision be made
by Congress for the reorganization, to some extent, of the superintendencies and
agencies in accordance with the provisions of a bill which is pending in Con-
gress, and which seemed so sure to pass that the annual appropriation act sup-
plies the funds for paying the officers therein provided for. Perhaps some slight
changes or additions may now be found necessary, and, if so, they may be spe-
cially reported to you in time for action by Congress.

22 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

Upon the question of compensation, I have no hesitation in repeating the
recommendations of the last report of this office, and being about to retire from
the position which I hold, I can do so without incurring the imputation of any
selfish motive.

The Commissioner of Indian Affairs who does his duty faithfully earns a
compensation not inferior to that provided for any bureau under the govern-
ment ; the Indian service suffers constant loss and discredit from the impossi-
bility in many cases of obtaining the right kind of men to accept its places at the
present meagre compensation ; and the various employes upon the office-work
of the bureau, are the worst paid men under the government. I believe that
this government can well afford to pay its responsible employes a fair day's
wages for a fair days work, and that it is true economy to pay them a living
compensation in the ratio of their labors and responsibilities.

In closing this portion of my second annual report, I take pleasure in
acknowledging my obligations to the clerical force of this bureau, and especially
to the chief clerk and the heads of divisions, for their faithful attention to their
duties, and the unflagging industry, often beyond regular office hours, by which
alone we have been able to accomplish so much, with no increase of our regular
number, in a year in which, in correspondence, careful and studied reports
requiring great research through files of many years, and in general business,
the amount of labor has been nearly, or quite double that of any previous year.

I proceed to a more particular notice of the several superintendencies and
agencies, referring for details to the accompanying documents :

WASHINGTON.

The annual report from this superintendency, one of the most important of
those in charge of this office, not having arrived, I am unable to do more than
refer briefly to such matters of importance as have been presented for attention
in the current correspondence of the year.

The tribes and bands of Washington Territory are very numerous, and are
grouped together in a series of treaties made by governor Stevens in 1854-'55,
reservations being provided for them in the central and northwestern part of the
Territory ; many small bands, however, whose lands had, for the most part
already been taken possession of by whites, in the southwest, between the
Columbia river and the ocean, were not treated with ; nor were there any ar-
rangements made with the tribes in the northeast, near the British line.

With the exception of the Yakamas, whose reservation is east of the moun-
tains, and who have improved rapidly under the charge of a faithful agent, and
employes who make it a matter of conscience to set a good example before the
India ns, there is not much of encouragement thus far in the attempt to civilize
the tribes of this Territory. Living along the shores of the bays and inlets
which make a large portion of the superficial area of the northwestern extreme
of the Union, they have been able to procure a livelihood, sometimes scanty,
but usually sufficient for their simple wants, by fishing and hunting; and some
of them are very expert fishermen, going some distance out to sea in pursuit of
the whale and other fish, from which they obtain considerable quantities of oil
for sale. Last year it was proposed to encourage in this trade, the tribe whose
reservation is near Cape Flattery, by procuring for their use a small vessel,
but we are not advised as to the result. The presence of United States troops
at various posts established in that region has aided very materially in preserving
quiet among the tribes, and it is feared that the general reduction of the force
and abandonment of several posts will result in serious damage to the Indian
service. A very small garrison, under an efficient commander, will suffice to
keep the peace; but if hostilities are once commenced, a small army may find
its efforts in vain, since the Indians will not risk a battle, but carry on desultory

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 23

operations. The military officers of the district have cordially seconded all the
efforts of the superintendent to maintain good order and discipline. One expedi-
tion, of which we have received full advices, resulted in the arrest of a number
of Indians who had for several years beeii notorious for committing outrages
upon whites or friendly Indians, and they were, at last accounts, still h<-ld in
custody by the military authorities, awaiting trial. The superintendent does not
doubt that they can be proved guilty and punished ; but thinks it hard to inflict
the utmost ri^or of the law upon Indians, while no white man is ever convicted
and punished for criminal conduct towards them.

Aside from the Yakama agency above referred to, and, to some extent, the
Tulalip agency, educational matters are in a low state among the Washington
Indians, and the generally liberal provisions of their treaties have thus far proved
of little advantage to them. The teachers of the Yakamas, and reverend Mr.
Chirouse at the Tulalip agency, have succeeded, especially the former, in es-
tablishing the fact that some of these Indians can be brought to appreciate the
advantages which education confers upon them, and to attend the schools witli
regularity and interest. It does nol appear that there is any such radical dif-
ference between these tribes and the others as to prevent us from expecting a
like result from equally judicious efforts with the latter. A strong desire has
been expressed by the Tulalip teacher for the appropriation of sufficient funds
to enable him to open a girl's boarding school, where many orphan children,
now held in a disgraceful state of slavery among the Indians, may be cared for
and taught, and an estimate for the purpose was transmitted to Congress at its
last session, but without result. The legislature of the Territory made a special
recommendation upon this subject, and this office would take pleasure in re-
sponding to their wishes if the means should be placed in its hands. Books for
the introduction of the Kindergarten system have been sent to the two schools
above referred to, and to the one at Neah bay for the Makahs.

OREGON.

The annual report of Superintendent Hunting-ton, and the reports of the sev-
eral agents, furnish full information of the condition of the Indian service in that
'quarter.

The Siletz and Alsea agencies have charge of the Indians of the coast, with
whom a treaty was made by Superintendent Palmer in 1855, but which, for
some reason, failed of ratification by the Senate, though most of the other trea-
ties of that year with the Oregon Indians were ratified. By the provisions of
that treaty, the Indians ceded nearly all the land lying between the Coast
Range of mountains and the ocean, save a reservation set apart for their resi-
dence ; arid they immediately retired to the proposed reservation, in full faith that
the government would carry into operation the stipulations of the treaty. But
this has not been the case, and ten years have elapsed, during which the Indi-
ans have awaited the action of the government, being aided meanwhilaby means
of the general fund appropriated for the service in Oregon. They have profited
by the teaching afforded them, and have labored with much energy in cultivat-
ing the soil and earning their own subsistence, much troubled, meanwhile, lest
they might at some time, because of the uncertain tenure by which they hold
their lands, be driven from their homes. That which they feared has, to some
extent, happened during the past year, a portion of their reservation, hitherto
reserved from sale, under orders of the department, having been thrown into
market and opened for settlement.

This office having reported fully upon the subject when it was under discus-
sion last spring, I do not desire to reopen it, but allude to it now only to state
rny full concurrence in the view taken by the superintendent as to the duty of
the government to enter at once upon a policy which shall vindicate its good

24 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

faith, by securing, under treaty stipulations, a Lome for these tribes. The
measures recommended by the superintendent will result in concentrating* the
Indians upon one agency north of the Yaquina bay, and that part of the reserva-
tion thrown into market will, it is thought, pay the whole expenses of the pro-
posed arrangement.

During the year a supplementary treaty has been made with the tribes of the
Warm Springs agency, by which, for a small consideration, they yield the right
heretofore reserved to leave the reservation for the purpose of fishing a right,
the exercise of which has been a fruitful source of trouble, leading to great
demoralization among them. They can now be kept upon their reservation
and more easily restrained.

The accounts from the Umatilla reservation, in the northeastern part of the
State, continue favorable.

The superintendent alludes to the action of the department during the year,
in directing that permission should be given for the opening of a wagon road
through the reservation. This office reported against the movement, on the
ground that such a thoroughfare must, by bringing many whites into communi-
cation with the Indians, result in their demoralization; but the interests of the
public, desiring a short route from the Columbia river to the gold mines of
Idaho, were urged by the Oregon delegation in Congress as outweighing those
of the Indians, and the road was authorized. It is gratifying to learn that the
road has been so laid out as not to interfere seriously with the Indians ; but the
superintendent has felt it to be his duty to forbid the opening of a county road,
which was intended to be laid out so as to pass through the Indian farms.

Good results are anticipated from the opening of the new Klamath Lake
reservation, and the concentration thereon of the Klamaths, Modocs, and Ya-
hooskin Snakes. A good beginning has been made here under the charge of
Agent Applegate, and the Indians are found to labor with great willingness and
energy. Superintendent Huntingtou does not think that the Wollpahpee
Snakes, who were also intended to be placed upon this reservation, have joined
the hostile bands, but supposes that they have only returned to their old coun-
try in the interior of Oregon, and may be induced to come to the reservation
when they learn that their treaty is ratified.

The allotment of land in severalty to such of the Indians of this superin-
tendency as are prepared to settle down permanently to the cultivation of the
soil, would be of great benefit to them, and in that opinion this office fully con-
curs. Estimates have been submitted for making the necessary surveys upon
the Umatilla reservation, and others will be prepared and forwarded in time
for action by Congress.

The superintendent makes special allusion to the fact that under recent or-
ders for withdrawing the United States troops from many of the posts, the re-
servations are left wholly without protection or the means of enforcing disci-
pline. He refers particularly to the Coast Range reservation, where there are
4,000 Indians now left without a single soldier to aid the agents; and to the
Warm Spring reservation, which has been for several years subject to attacks
by the hostile Snake Indians, being also left without any protection. I recom-
mend an earnest representation of the necessities of the case to the War Depart-
ment, in order that a few small garrisons may be left at proper places near tlve
exposed points.

Besides the Indians upon reservations in Oregon, there are many others,
some not treated with because they will not consent to treat, as the Snakes of
the southeast, whose hand is against every man, and every man's hand against
them, and upon whom a desultory but costly warfare is being made by small
parties of United States troops ; and some who have been so weak that it was
probably considered useless to attempt to provide for them. These latter live
in the northwest, between the Columbia river and the ocean, and are similar in

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 25

most respects to the tribes in Washington Territory, immediately north of them.
They are poor, degraded, and debauched. The superintendent estimates them
at 1,200 in number, and thinks that the sum of $2,000 could be well expended
in placing them upon a reservation, and trying to do something for their benefit.

In regard to education, the remarks of previous reports are repeated in favor
of encouraging manual labor schools, as the only ones which promise any per-
manent g^iod to the Indians; the children who attend the day schools, and re-
turn to their families in the interval, losing nearly all the benefits of the in-
struction given them.

There are five schools in the superintendency, one each upon the Umatilla,
Warm Springs, and Siletz reservations, and two at Grand Ronde. That at
Siletz and one of those upon the Grand Ronde reservation are manual labor
schools, and, under faithful and competent teachers, are doing good. The Uma-
tilla school has latterly been placed under charge of a Catholic missionary
teacher, and promises well ; the Indians, who have in past years been under
the influence of missionaries of that denomination, receiving the teachers with
great pleasure. A good manual labor school at this point would doubtless meet
with abundant success.

CALIFORNIA.

The annual reports of Superintendent Maltby, and of most of the agents in
charge of reservations in that State, are received, and present a very full view
of matters relating to the Indian service duflng the past year. ^ Various inter-
esting suggestions and recommendations will be found in these reports.

The reservations at present recognized in California are Round Valley, in the
northeast ; Hoopa Valley, in the northwest ; Smith River, soutb of the latter,
and near the coast ; and Tule River, in the interior, in the southern part of the
State.

The act of Congress for reorganizing the Indian service in this State author-
izes four reservations and agents, but only three have been appointed under
regular commissions, to wit, those having charge at Smith river, Hoopa val-
ley, and Round valley. Movements have been made by the California delega-
tion in Congress to effect a consolidation of some of these agencies, and the
policy heretofore pursued at Smith river and Tule river, of leasing lands of
private parties for reservations, has received some attention. A careful report
from this office, upon the subject of the California reservations, was made dur-
ing the present year, and is placed among the accompanying documents for con-
venience of reference.

While it is certain that the practice of leasing private lands is one which
should not be followed, it is not so clear that the service can well be carried
on with less than four reservations, while there have been cogent reasons pre-
sented for a fifth. Round valley appears to have the preference of the delega-
tion for the northernmost reserve. The government has just paid a large sum
for securing title to the improvements of settlers in Hoopa valley, but if it
shall be determined to concentrate the Indians in Round valley, the lands and
improvements would doubtless sell for much more than the amount expended.
The Smith River agency could, perhaps, with advantage, be consolidated with
one of the above-named agencies.

This office has recommended that the Tule River agency be made permanent,
and that lands adjoining the present leased farm be set apart by government
for the purpose. Some arrangement in behalf of the Mission Indians in the
extreme south, near the coast, will be found necessary, and can be effected at
small cost, as the Indians of that region are somewhat advanced in civilization
and abundantly able and willing to provide their own subsistence if they can
be secured in the occupancy of sufficient land, and be assisted occasionally by

26 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

a distribution of seeds and agricultural implement?. The superintendent has
also expressed the opinion that it may be necessary to concentrate upon a
reservation the Chemihuives and other bands in the eastern part of the State,
near the Arizona line, who have recently made much trouble.

From the Hoopa Valley agency we have been advised, from time to time,
of the good order prevailing thereon, and the willingness with which the In-
dians have labored, planting a large breadth of land, from which an abundant
erop was expected. The payment by government of the appraised value of
the improvements of settlers upon this reservation, authorized by act of Con-
gress, and effected this year, will quiet some apprehensions of trouble, and
place the agency in quiet possession of valuable lands, buildings, &c. Agent
Fail-field reports the number of Indians at Round valley at 1,0(53. viz : Wyla-
kies and Pitt Rivers, 361 ; Eel Rivers, 26 ; Pitt Rivers, 196 ; Cow-Cow, 238 ;
Yucas, 242. The Indians from Mendocino were to have been removed to this
reservation, (that location having been abandoned in accordance with previous
arrangements,) but the agent reports that most of them thus far remain at the
old place. The Indians at Round valley are represented as peaceable and
obedient, healthy, and successful in their farming operations, producing much
more food than is necessary for their use.

The report from this office, above referred to, and which is before Congress,
contemplates the enlargement of this reservation so as to include all of the ad-
jacent lands to the mountains, thus forming an ample reserve for all' the In-
dians likely to tye concentrated undtr the charge of government in the pursuits
of agriculture in the northern part of the State. Their surplus, but for the
isolated position of the reservation, could be disposed of to great advantage,
and the income used in the purchase of clothing, in which the Indians are de-
ficient. The estimated crop of this year was some 22,000 bushels grain and
3,000 bushels potatoes, besides 30 acres of vegetables.

Special Agent Hoffman, in charge at Tule river, reported in April, and
again in June, as to agricultural operations at that place, which had been very
successful, the harvest yielding over 11,000 bushels of grain, besides other
produce to a large amount.

Upon the Smith River reserve (a leased farm) there were, early in the year,
about 900 Indians, though it is not understood that all of these were located
upon the farm, but living in the immediate neighborhood, and in charge of the
agent. In the winter it was necessary to issue rations to them for a short
time, but by the April report it was stated that they would have enough re-
maining of last year's crop to subsist them until the new one could be realized.

The Indians, generally, were quiet and obedient, but an unfortunate occur-
rence in April, resulting in the death of two Indians at the hands of another,
and the action of the agent thereupon, interrupted this favorable condition
of affairs. The Indian accused, and doubtless guilty, was arrested by order
of the agent, and the facts reported to the superintendent for instructions.
Without waiting for those instructions, however, the agent, Mr. Bryson, took
the responsibility of summarily hanging the Indian, which fact being reported
to this office, resulted in his dismissal.

In educational matters there has been no progress in this superintendency,
and there is not an Indian school in the State. Occasionally some religious
society appears to awake to the fact that there are nearly 35,000 heathens in
California, at their very doors, and makes inquiry upon the subject ; but, with
the reply of this office, that it will gladly aid, to the extent of the means fur-
nished by Congress, in the establishment of schools for the Indians, the mat-
ter has ended. It' is not creditable to the humanity of the government that
this condition of affairs should continue, and the superintendent has been dir
re'cted to prepare and report an estimate of the amount of funds necesstuy for
establishing a good school upon each of the four reservations recognized. The

EEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS 27

amount reported, $11,300, is very moderate, and it is confidently expected
that Congress will furnish the department with the means to remove this re-
proach. It also appears probable that, with a small outlay, the schools among
the Catholic Mission Indians may be revived and put into successful operation
again.

The superintendent recommends that in case it shall be determined to remove
the Indians from Smith river to Round valley, a special appropriation of $5,000
be made for the purpose, and that measures may be taken to place in markefc
the reservations at Nome Lackee and Mendocino, with the improvements at the
latter place and at Smith river.

Considering the number of Indians still in California, the general quiet pre-
vailing, and the incalculable wealth which has accrued to the nation from the
lands taken from these Indians by sheer force and without any permanent
stipulations for their relief or improvement, the amount of money annually ex-
pended for their benefit is very small, and a reasonable increase is confidently
expected whenever the subject shall be fairly laid before Congress.

ARIZONA.

Although we have as yet no annual report from the superintendent of Arizona,
the mails being very irregular and long in transmission, yet, as the monthly
reports have been promptly .forwarded, we are able to present a fair view of the
condition of Indian affairs therein. The officers in charge have shown great
interest in the work, and appear to have labored faithfully for the benefit of the
Indians, and their valuable suggestions have been from time to time laid before
the department and transmitted to Congress. It was hoped that the meagre
appropriation hitherto made for Arizona would be so far increased that some of
the plans suggested and approved for the improvement of the Indians might be
carried into effect, especially because the Indians themselves were well disposed
to avail themselves of the benefits proposed ; but these hopes were disappointed.
There is no superintendency where a reasonable appropriation judiciously ex-
pended will confer a lasting benefit upon more Indians there are nearly 40,000
of them and relieve more whites of apprehended trouble, than in Arizona.

Plans to colonize the tribes known as the river Indians, the Yavapais, Huala-
pais, &c., upon a reservation on the Colorado river set apart for them by Con-
gress two years ago, have been considered and presented to the department, but
for want of necessary funds, nothing of a permanent character has been done.
" Nevertheless, the superintendent and Agent Feudge, who was more directly in
charge of the enterprise, succeeded in inducing a considerable number of the
Mohaves, and of the tribes above named, to commence planting. By the August
report it appeared that these tribes, many of the members of which had been
disposed to hostility, were peacefully at work, and that for the first time in
months trains were moving between the river and Prescott, the capital of the
Territory, without interruption. The first crops planted by the Indians were
swept away by a flood in the river, and another rise had also occurred, the effect
being to so far saturate the ground as to assure the Indians of a successful crop.

Much trouble has been encountered with the Chemihuives, who are represented
as Being at war with most of the other tribes. They reside for the most part
in California, and some attempts have been made at a conference with the super-
intendent for California, in order to devise and unite in recommending measures
for quieting this tribe.

In regard to the Moquis, the interesting village Indians living in the north-
eastern part of Arizona, near the borders of New Mexico, and very similar in
character to the Pueblos of that Territory, but little is known in addition to that
presented in former reports. They are, however, peaceable and self-sustaining,
costing the government nothing except in cases of extreme necessity resulting
from failure of crops.

28 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

In regard to the Papagos, Pimos, and Maricopas, in the southeast, we have
full advices through the interesting report of Dr. Lord, who was left in charge
of the agency by Special Agent Davidson, early in the year. Dr. Lord was
willing to accept the permanent charge of these tribes, and his services would
have been valuable to the government, but previous to the receipt of his report
Captain L. Ruggles had been appointed agent, and had proceeded hence to his
destination. The accounts given of the Indians of this agency are very favor-
able, especially as to the Pimos and Maricopas, who are an agricultural and
manufacturing people, industrious and self-sustaining, and need little from gov-
ernment for their physical welfare except a small supply of wagons or carts,
and improved agricultural implements. They desire and need schools, and it is
to be hoped that Congress will provide a sufficient fund or the service in the
Territory to enable the department to respond to their wants in this and other
respects.

The tribes of this agency have each furnished a company of men to the United
States for service against the Apaches. This last-mentioned tribe is always in
hostility. Various rumors have been circulated in the public press in relation
to terrible deeds by their braves, a whole garrison of United States troops at
Fort Goodwin being reported at one time as being massacred ; but there was no
truth in this report, and the troubles with those Indians seem to be grossly
exaggerated in the accounts which reach us. This office is not convinced that
by judicious management the controlling men of the tribe cannot be reached
and pacified. It is an ancient feud, however, between them and the Mexican
population, to which our people have succeeded of right by annexing and set-
tling in the country.

Most of the Pai-Utes who have hitherto been numbered as belonging in Ari-
zona, have, by the change of boundaries setting off to Nevada the region lying
north and west of the Colorado river, been transferred to that State.

Should the annual reports of the superintendents and agents arrive in season,
they will be presented in the appendix to this report among the accompanying
documents; and I have placed among those papers an interesting report from Mr.
H. Ehrenberg, a gentleman familiar with the subject, as to proposed reserva-
tions for the Indians. Although not desiring to commit this office to its sugges-
tions and recommendations, yet I deem it of value for reference by Congress,
when, as I hope will be the case early in the ensuing session, that body shall be
disposed to consider the reasonable demands of this Territory, as relating to the
Indian service therein.

I do not think that the sum of $100,000 is an excessive estimate for the In-
dian service in this Territory, in view of the work to be done, and accordingly
recommend the appropriation of that amount.

NEVADA.

Superintendent Parker's annual report arrived in good season this year to
furnish full information as to the condition of matters in Nevada, although he
has labored under various disadvantages in performing the duties of his office,
owing to the fact that the superintendency had been vacant for a considerable
time previous to his assuming the position, and no records or papers were 011 file
sufficient to advise him of what had been done.

Both Superintendent Parker and Agent Campbell have kept this office well
advised, through their monthly reports, of events occurring within their juris-
diction ; and it ismatter for great regret that the means at the disposal of the
department for Nevada have been so small that it has been impracticable to
carry into effect various good suggestions for the benefit of the Indians.

From the superintendent's annual report we obtain the following facts and
suggestions in reference to the tribes of Nevada : The Bannacks, numbering

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 29

about 1,500 in Nevada, so far as any location of their bands can be defined,
range over a wide district north of latitude 41 north, and extending into
eastern Oregon and Idaho. They had until late years been able to subsist them-
selves without much difficulty upon the game, fish, nuts and roots of the coun-
try ; but their means of living have been much restricted since the establishment
of routes of travel in various directions through their country, and by the settle-
ments in some of the few localities really fertile and suitable for agriculture.
Many of the Indians have been driven to hostilities, and forts have been erected
in their country, and military expeditions engaged in hunting down their par-
ties. Still many other bands of the same people have been peaceable throughout.

The Shoshonees, part of the great nation which, under various names and some-
times associated widi the Bannacks, .extend their range into Utah and Idaho,
are supposed to number about 2,500 in Nevada, occupying the northeastern part
of the State.

Along the overland route they have become accustomed to the whites; many
of them have learned the English language, and show some disposition to labor
for a living. These Indians have usually received an annual supply of blan-
kets and other necessaries at Ruby valley ; but the goods last forwarded ar-
rived so late that the superintendent determined to hold them over till this fall,
when they will be very welcome. The more southern portion of these Indians
nearer the centre of the State are in a very destitute condition. Late exploring
expeditions a narrative of one of which by the Superintendent of Public In-
struction, Ilev. Mr. White, accompanies the report show that for the most part
the country occupied by them is a barren desert, unfit for the habitation of man,
and the Indians are in many cases in a starving condition. By the report be-
fore us it is evident that Superintendent Parker thinks the Indians resident in
the Pahranagat mining country, in southeastern Nevada, (a part of the country
recently taken from Utah and annexed to Nevada,) are Shoshonees, but it is prob-
able, from other sources of information, that they are Pai-Utes, a different peo-
ple from the Pi-Utes hereafter referred to. The superintendent recommends that
a reservation be set apart for these Indians of the southeast, whatever be their
proper name, somewhere in the Pahranagat valley.

Temporary provision has been made for them by the appointment of Mr. J.
M. Guthrie as a special agent, the intention being to supply them from Utah
with a moderate supply of goods and provisions, and thus prevent any disposi-
tion to make trouble with the miners. They properly belong to Nevada, but,
so far as at present advised, the question of transportation and facility of mail
communication will for some time make the existing arrangement the best.

The Pi-Utes aie noticed as belonging in the western and southwestern part of
the State, the portion in which the mining settlements abound, and the account
given of them is very favorable. Numbering some 4,200, they are represented
as having derived real benefit from their connexion with the whites ; No explana-
tion is given of this singular anomaly in Indian history, and no reason why this
tribe should differ so greatly from the others around them ; but it is nevertheless
said to be a fact, that the Pi-Utes are willing to labor, and earn a fair living by
labor among the whites ; that they refuse to use intoxicating drinks, that they
are docile and anxious to learn, and that they are chaste. With such a character,
as might be expected, the tribe is increasing in numbers, and if Congress
will but appropriate a reasonable amount of funds for the service in Nevada,
we may reasonably expect to make something of these Indians.

The Washoes, about 500 in number, living in the extreme west, are quite
the reverse of the last-mentioned tribe in everything but their peaceable beha-
vior, and are represented as rapidly diminishing in numbers from the effects of
hard drinking and other vices.

There are three reservations in Nevada, in the Pi-Ute country, one including
Pyramid lake, another Walker lake, and a third set apart for timber for the first-

30 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

named reserve. In regard to this timber reserve, the superintendent says that
it includes about 20,000 acres of fine timber, and that the Pacific railroad "will
claim the alternate sections," a claim of doubtful validity; but it is alleged
that it is found very difficult to protect this timber, and the suggestion is made
that it be sold, and the proceeds used for the Indians of the State ; and* this
course is recommended. A beginning has been made in cultivating the soil upon
these reservations, and with some success ; but as agricultural operations in
Nevada require irrigation for their permanent success, nothing can be done which
shall tend to concentrate these Indians to the pursuit of self-sustaining industry
until the means are provided for the purpose.

Agent Campbell in his annual report makes such an estimate, and it is hoped
that Congress will take the subject into consideration. While Nevada is by
her rich mines pouring immense wealth into the lap of the nation, the Indian
occupants of the country have never been treated with, and have no permanent
provision made for their benefit ; while the annual appropriations for the service
in that State are less than is annually expended for many small tribes in the
east.

In the month of June Agent Campbell reported the arrival of some one hun-
dred and twenty Indians at Fort Churchill, in the northern part of Nevada, mostly
Bannacks and Pai-Utes, destitute and suffering. They had been hostile, but
voluntarily surrendered, and were sent to the Truckee River or Pyramid Lake
reservation, and set at work at raising a supply of vegetables for themselves.

Early in the year, certain whites repaired to the last-named reservation, and
commenced settlements there. Upon their being notified by the superintendent
to leave, and their refusal to obey the order, a small detachment of soldiers ac-
companied the superintendent to the reservation, and the intruders were com-
pelled to leave it; since which no further difficulty of the kind has occurred.

There is a very encouraging field for the education and christianizing of
these Indians open, especially in the case of the Pi-Utes ; and upon the request
of this office the superintendent furnished an estimate of the amount of funds
necessary for establishing a manual labor school, and supporting it for one year,
which amount is stated at $11,500. This estimate, I think, was transmitted
to Congress by your predecessor, but no action was taken thereon at the last
session. It is hoped that early action upon this recommendation will enable
this office to put the school in operation during the coming year. Believing
that, including the establishment of this school, the sum of $60,000 can be ju-
diciously expended for the permanent benefit of those Indians during the next
year, that sum is recommended for Nevada.

UTAH.

The annual reports from this superintendency having arrived at a late hour,
I have been unable to give them such full notice as is desirable. Mr. Head,
who succeeded Mr. Irish as superintendent early last spring, has performed his
duties to the satisfaction of this office, and his report contains much interesting
matter.

The arrangements for concentrating the Utah Indians upon the Uintah Val-
ley reservation, in the northeastern part of the Territory, have been pushed
forward this year with considerable energy under the direction of the superin-
tendent, and the immediate charge of Mr. Carter, who relieved Agent Kinney
in the early summer; and there was a prospect of a fair crop upon the reserva-
tion. At one time the bands at this location threatened an outbreak of hostili-
ties; but by a speedy visit to them, in the journey to accomplish which the
party suffered great hardships in crossing the mountains, the Indians were
quieted, restored the property which they had seized, and promised obedience.

In accordance with the acts of Congress providing for the appraisal and sale

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 31

of the several reservations in Utah heretofore set apart, with their improvements,
Governor Durkee and Superintendent Head were appointed appraisers, and
have made their report, which has been transmitted to the department. The
avails of the sale of these reservations are by law to be devoted to the Indian
service in Utah, and they are needed for the purpose of providing for various
improvements upon the Uintah Valley reservation.

Early in the spring advices were received that Black Hawk, an influential
chief of the San Pitch band of Utahs, had taken the field with an active band
of followers, and had killed many of the settlers and driven off a large amount
of valuable stock. In the conflicts which ensued some forty of the Indians
were killed, bui the chief was joined by wild spirits and outlaws from various
bands, and thus recruited, renewed his raids upon the settlers.

The Pai-Utes, referred to in the last annual report, as living in southwestern
Utah, and formerly in charge of Special Agent Sale, now belong properly in
Nevada, but, as has been stated under the head of the last-named superinten-
dency, this special agency, now in charge of Mr. Guthrie, reports to the super-
intendent for Utah.

By the annual report of Agent Mann, of the Fort Bridger agency, we are
advised of the condition of the eastern band. of Shoshones. Old " Washakee,"
their chief, is a firm friend of the whites, and his people behave well.

Silver medals have been sent to Washakee and to "Konosh," head chief of
one of the Utah bands, in recognition of their good service to the whites and
good influence over their own people.

NEW MEXICO.

If we are not able as yet to report the condition of Indian affairs in New
Mexico as an entirely satisfactory one, it is not for lack of knowledge of the
tribes which inhabit different portions of that Territory; the very full and ex-
haustive report of Mr. J. K. Graves, who was in New Mexico at .the time of the
last annual report of this office, having been made early in this year. Its great
length precludes the possibility of inserting it in full among the accompanying
papers, but an abstract is therein presented, in order that it may be referred to,
if necessary, for an accurate understanding of the matter, when Congress shall,
as it is hoped may be the case, take up the subject with the purpose of provid-
ing such means as may be necessary to do justice to a Territory whose loyal
people have suffered, and are suffering much from Indian depredations, and who
are knocking loudly at the door of Congress for relief.

A few words may profitably be devoted here to the conclusions reached by
Mr. Graves upon the different points considered in his report. The Bosque Re-
dondo and the Navajoes thereon, he found to be an engrossing theme of discus-
'sion among the people, so much so that parties were organized upon the issue,
" Bosque" or "anii-Bosque" that is, whether the Navajoes should or should nat
b e kept upon that reservation. Mr. Graves is clearly of the opinion that the
policy of General Carleton has had an excellent effect ; that the Navajoes are
doing well upon the reservation; and that it is best that the government should,
once for all, put an end to the quarrels among the people upon this subject, by
deciding that the Indians shall be retained at that reservation, and by providing
the necessary appropriations for taking them into the charge of the civil authori-
ties. As they are now, there is a divided jurisdiction, the Indians being pris-
oners of war, and sustained,- as to all supplies beyond what they raise them-
selves, by rations issued by the military authorities; while they also have a
regularly appointed agent, and an annual distribution of supplies in clothing,
&c., of $100,000 appropriated by Congress. Such a state of things should not
continue. Either they should be supported and educated in self-supporting in-
dustry by the military alone, or they should be turned over to the civil authori-
ties. The division of jurisdiction makes trouble constantly. Mr. Graves pro-

32 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

sents estimates of the amounts necessary for the care of these Indians for one
year by the civil authorities, and, though small in comparison with the average
cost to the War Department for the past two years, yet they seem very large
in comparison with the amount authorized by Congress to be expended for any
of the other tribes under the care of the government. But there is this to be
said, that after this large expenditure shall have been made for a single year
the amount annually necessary is expected to decrease in a very rapid ratio.

The Pueblos, as Mr. Graves states, and as we are very well prepared to be-
lieve from our previous accounts of that interesting people, are scarcely to be
considered Indians, and but for their residence upon specific reservations,
patented to their bands in confirmation of ancient Spanish grants, and their con-
tinued tribal organization, they might be considered a part of the ordinary popu-
lation of the country. They need very little help from the government. Occa-
sionally, as has been the case during the last year, on account of unusual over-
flow of streams, or for the contrary cause, their crops fail, and they need assist-
ance, but generally they provide by their own industry for their physical
wants. What they do need, and what humanity demands, is assistance, to a
limited extent, in improved agricultural implements, and above all the establish-
ment of schools among them. This want it is hoped that Congress will give
the department the means of supplying.

As to the Utahs, living in the northwestern part of the Territory, the true
policy, as urged by Mr. Graves, is to remove them to Colorado, iA alliance with
the Tabequache Utes, upon a common reservation. He thinks that the reserva-
tion set apart for the latter band is sufficient for the purpose, and this office con-
curs with him in that idea; but it seems doubtful whether the suggestion can
readily be carried into practical effect, for these Utahs of New Mexico, the
Capote and Waunemuche bands, of the Abiquiu agency, and Mohuache Utes of
the Cimarron agency, are not favorable to such removal. The former dislike
the idea <f giving up their roving life, while the latter have become attached to
the Jicarilla Apaches, and seem inclined to remain and share their lot. If these
Indians are not to be removed, Mr. Graves thinks that their agency should be
established at Tierra Amarilla, and that at Abiquiu dispensed with.

As to the Apaches, four tribes of whom, the Jicarilla, Mimbres, Mescaleros,
and Gila Apaches, have heretofore claimed as their country the eastern half and
southwestern quarter of the Territory, Mr. Graves thinks that the reservation
heretofore set apart for the Gila Apaches, in the southwest, near the Arizona
line, is sufficient for all of the bands named, and that by proper inducements
held out to them in the way of liberal provisions for their comfort and for till-
ing the soil to advantage, they might all be induced to remove to it. No posi-
tive opinion upon this point has been expressed by the present superintendent,
who succeeded Mr. Delgado last spring; but as he has made recommendations
looking towards the selection of a reservation for the Mescalero Apaches in the
eastern part of New Mexico, near Fort Stanton, it may be presumed that he
deems it impracticable to remove the eastern tribes across the mountains.

The Mescalero Apaches occupy a position of peculiar interest, for some five
hundred of them were upon the Bosque Redondo reservation, (originally set apart
for them,) and faithfully tilling the soil, with ample success, when the Navajoes
were removed to that place. Being at feud with the Navajoes, and outnumbered
by them, they gradually left the reservation, until, at last accounts, not more than
a dozen were left, and thus the fruits of two or three years' labor in reclaiming
them from their savage life has been lost.

Upon the subject of Indian depredations Mr. Graves presents many interest-
ing facts and statements, showing the great losses sustained by the people from
the Indians, and for which they claim recompense by Congress. He recom-
mends that a commission be authorized by Congress to investigate and report
upon those alleged losses, with a view to payment by Congress.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 33

On the subject of peonage the qualified slavery still prevalent in New Mexico,
authorized by its laws, and encouraged and practiced by its people, officials of
government, and natives of the United States as well as those who have been
" to the manner born," Mr. Graves's statements, Avith the evidence presented there-
with, are such as to leave no doubt of the duty of Congress to take the matter in
hand, and deal with it effectually. This office has done all that lay in its power,
by promulgating the order of the President forbidding the practice, and all the
other departments of the government issued like directions to the officers respon-
sible to them; but, in spite of all this, it is clear that the practice still continues
to a greater or less extent.

In December and January there were complaints of murders having been
committed by some of the Utahs; but, upon investigation, it was found that the
tribe 1 could not justly be held as hostile, the outrage having been committed by
outlaws from their number, whom they disowned. In July many of these In-
dians were near Tierra Amarilla in a condition of great destitution. The super-
intendent visited them and relieved their immediate wants, and promised to fur-
nish them monthly supplies a promise which this office was compelled to repu-
diate, for the simple reason that the funds appropriated by Congress will not
suffice for the purpose.

A late communication from the superintendent states that among the new
regiments to be raided in the west, under authority of Congress, one is autho-
rized for New Mexico, which will be half cavalry and half infantry, and which
will probably be sufficient to quell any rising disaffection among the tribes.
We also learn that Manuelita, the Navajo chief, who has hitherto refused to
surrender, but continued a desultory warfare with the small band of warriors
remaining with him, has surrendered to the military at Fort Wingate, being
fairly starved into submission.

The great want of the superintendency is funds sufficient to pay the existing
indebtedness of the Territory, much of which has occurrred in a manner and un-
der circumstances which make it almost impossible to blame the officers of the
government for contracting it ; and then a reasonably liberal annual appropria-
tion for the expenses of the service. If reservations are decided upon, a present
outlay to establish the Indians upon them must be made, which will necessarily
increase the appropriation, but in any event the amount now appropriated for
New Mexico is far too small.

The annual reports of the superintendent and several agents arrived too late
to be published in full, but extracts from them are given in the accompanying
papers. The want of funds, above referred to, has constantly hampered the de-
partment in the management of Indian affairs, and the result has been very un-
fortunate in inducing tribes heretofore disposed*to peace to hostile acts of plun-
der for the saket>f subsistence, which this office had not the meauw to provide
for them. It is very unpleasant to be obliged to reply unfavorably to the ap-
peals from the officers in special charge of the Indians, where they urge that
aid to a large amount monthly must be furnished to certain tribes to prevent
them from stealing their necessary subsistence from the settlers ; but such has
been the case with regard to New Mexico, for the simple reason that Congress
has failed to make the needed appropriations for the service. Under such cir-
cumstances, the military authorities have felt compelled to issue rations to the
Indians referred to.

The superintendent submits estimates of the amount which he deems neces-
sary for the use of the service in new Mexico, and his report, with the other
papers presented herewith, will furnish the means of deciding upon the proper
policy to be observed.
3 c I

34 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

COLORADO.

No animal report from this superiutendency has been received, but from our
files of correspondence we Lave to report that the condition of affairs is very
unsatisfactory.*

There are two agencies, one for the Grand River band of Utes, with the head-
quarters at Denver, and the other for the Tabequache Utes, in the southern part
of the Territory, the latter being under treaty stipulations. The Grand River
bands have been in a state of discontent for some time, and have been visited by
the superintendent, Governor Cummings, who has reported by telegraph that he
has effected a satisfactory arrangement with them, but the mails have not yet
brought on the details of that arrangement.

The governor has also recently visited the Tabequache Utes, finding them
restless, and some of the bands threatening trouble on account of the failure of
their goods to come to hand ; but this office was advised by telegram that the
governor left them quiet. Almost immediately upon the receipt of this despatch
came another, with advices from Fort Garland, in the southeastern part of Col-
orado, stating that some of the Utes had broken out into open hostility. The
Indians alluded to, so far as we are advised, are a part of the Mohuache and
Tabenoche Utes, properly belonging in New Mexico, but it was apprehended
that the Tabequaches might become involved. The superintendent intended to
distribute the goods to the latter at once, they having fortunately arrived.

DAKOTA.

A change in superintendents very recently made in this very important dis-
trict is probably the reason why w6 have not received the usual careful sum-
mary of events and recommendations from the governor and superintendent ex
officio. This is much to be regretted, as the late governor, honorable Newton
Edmunds, has not only been in charge during the occurrence of highly import-
ant events among the various tribes of Dakota, but has been one of the commis-
sioners appointed by the President to treat with the Sioux and the other tribes
residing in the northern part of the Territory. Possibly annual reports may yet
be received from the superintendent and agents ; and if so, they will be inserted
among the accompanying documents. Meantime, however, I proceed with a
summary of events, derived from the various and voluminous correspondence of
the year, relating to Dakota and its Indian population, which greatly exceeds
in numbers that of the whites.

The tribes of Dakota are the Yanctons and Poncas, in the southeast, having
reservations on the Missouri ancf between that river and the Niobrara, the vari-
ous bands of Dakotas or Sioux, hitherto claiming the country on both sides of
the Missouri for a long distance towards its great bend to the westward, and the
Arickarees, Gros Ventres of the plains, and Maudans, confederated and resident
in the neighborhood of Fort Berthold. A portion of the extensive range of the
Crows lies in that district of country south of Montana, which is temporarily at-
tached to Dakota ; while the remains of the Santee Sioux, formerly in Minnesota,
and who fled to the north after the outbreak in 1862, are also in Dakota, or in the
British dominions directly north of and near the boundary line. The Winne-
bagoes, who were for some time located at Crow creek, near old Fort Randall,
have been entirely removed, and provided with new homes upon lands purchased
from the Omahas ; and that part of the Santee Sioux who accompanied the Win-
nebagoes to Crow creek have also been removed, and furnished with a new res-
ervation near Niobrara, in Nebraska. A very full statement of matters relating

*The Superintendent's annual report arrived at a later day, and is printed among the
accompanying documents.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 35

to these last-mentioned Indians will be found under the head of the northern
superintendence", under whose charge they now are.

In regard to the Yanctons, it may be said that, for various reasons, to some
extent arising from remarks which this office felt called upon to make last year,
in referring to the condition in which they were found by the agent who took
charge of them May 1, 1865, and also their condition as seen by the treaty com-
missioners and committee of Congress who visited them, they have received a
great deal of attention during the year, to such an extent that, upon a resolution
of the House of Representatives,' special inquiries were instituted in regard to
their matters, and report made thereon, disclosing some of the reasons why this
tribe had not profited more by the large expenditure made in its behalf under
the existing treaty.

The new agent, Mr. Conger, has, under frequent instructions and constant su-
pervision of this office, already effected a great change in the condition of the
tribe. Preparations were made early in the spring for planting for a large crop,
and the result has been a great success ; and the Indians, who had been in such
a state of destitution last year that supplies had to be furnished them to keep
them from starvation, are now rejoicing in plenty. Special Agent Graves, who
visited them as late as October 1, reports that their crop of corn will amount to
70,000 bushels ; that the goods to be distributed to them after harvest have been
well selected and are of a useful character ; that their payment of $20,000 of
cash annuities was satisfactory to them, (except that, like white people, they
would have preferred gold to greenbacks ;) that the distribution of medals to their
chiefs gave great satisfaction ; and that old " Strike the Ree," the head chief,
whose speeches in behalf of his people have heretofore elicited considerable at-
tention, now expressed himself as satisfied that the government really intended
to deal justly with the Yanctons.

Nothing of special importance has occurred in regard to the Poncas. The
one thing needed for them is the ratification of the supplemental treaty made
with them long ago, by which they exchange a portion of their reservation for
other lands adjoining, more suitable for their purposes. Practically, the Indians
had left the neighborhood of the agency as early as January last, and had gone
to the lands intended to be secured to them by the treaty. Their condition
during the winter was good, and food was plenty, while, as spring came on, great
quantities of water-fowl supplemented their remaining stock of grain, &c. During
the winter the Indians cut and corded upon the bank of the Missouri, for sale,
over two hundred cords of wood. In the spring they put a larger breadth of
land than usual in crops, and expected a good result.

It is to be hoped that action upon the treaty above referred to will not be
longer delayed, there being no reason known to this office for its suspension.
The Indians are very anxious for its ratification, in order that the necessary
arrangements may be made for removing .their agency buildings to a more con-
venient site.

Preliminary arrangements have been made for placing the educational inter-
ests of this tribe, which have been greatly neglected, in the hands of the American
Baptist Board, and it is intended to establish under their care a good manual
labor school in the building erected for the purpose some time since, retaining it
upon its present site, as being better adapted for its particular purpose than to
remove the building, as heretofore contemplated.

Proceeding further up the Missouri we come next to the Crow Creek agency,
abandoned, as before mentioned, by the Santee Sioux and Winnelfagoes, and
where an extensive stockade and buildings of considerable value had been erected.
These buildings have been occupied, for the most part, by United States troops
of late, but were to have been abandoned by them under a recent military order
for the evacuation of several posts. It being represented by Governor Edmunds
that a small garrison would be necessary to secure quiet among the Indians and

36 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

safety for the large amount of government property at that point, as well as the
crop just gathered, the subject has recently been represented to the department.
The Indians now at Crow creek are portions of some of the bands treated with
in 1865, who remained in that neighborhood all winter, being kept from absolute
starvation only by the issue to them of such scanty supplies as could be spared
from the stores at Fort Sully, and from the agency. It is much to the credit of
the Indians that, in spite of their manifold sufferings, scarcely a case of stealing
occurred among them, they being determined to keep their faith pledged to the
government. As spring advanced, and the deep snows melted, most of them
departed for the hunt ; but parts of the Two Kettles and Lower Yanctonnais
bands have remained at this point, willing to undertake the experiment of planting
a crop. It was recommended by Governor Edmunds that the Lower Brules
should also be colonized at this place and the agency buildings and accommo-
dations be made available for all three of the bands named ; but, on referring the
matters to Agent Hanson, he reports that the Brules insist upon the location at
the mouth of White river, secured to them by their treaty. The agent reports
fair success in raising corn and vegetables.

A curious illustration of the uncertainty of human affairs occurs here. The
department had just abandoned this location as a home for the Winnebagoes and
Santee Sioux, upon absolute conviction of its unfitness for agriculture, derived
from proofs of the failure of crops for successive years, the descriptions given by
persons familiar with the country, and the reports of the northwestern treaty
commission, and of Special Agent Reed ; and yet, Agent Hanson clearly recom-
mends this same reservation as a proper place whereupon to initiate his wild
Sioux of the plains in the mysteries of farming, believing that he can succeed at
Crow creek as well as at any other place in that country. Events this year
seem to justify Mr. Hanson's opinion ; while another year, with less rain, may
vindicate the bad reputation of the place as farming lands. The Indians, how-
ever, seem disposed to try it, and as the buildings are at hand for all the opera-
tions of an agency, it is proposed to put in operation here, experimentally, that
portion of the treaty of the two tribes rneiitiouedwhich contemplated their en-
couragement in cultivating the soil, supplying the necessary means for the pur-
pose from the general fund of the Indian service in the Territory, until estimates
can be laid before Congress and funds obtained. As to the Lower Brules, there
seems no alternative to a strict fulfilment of the treaty, and measures will be
taken to do so at the mouth of White river.

Of the other bands of Sioux treated with, we only know of a disposition shown
to cultivate the soil by one of the Sans Arc chiefs, who has asked that a little
land may . be broken for him near the mouth of the Cheyenne river ; but it is
something gained when any of these wild tribes are willing to make the experi-
ment, and it will be the endeavor of this office to give them all possible aid and
encouragement in this important beginning of a radical change in their customs.

Passing beyond the Sioux country, we reach the agency at Fort Berthold, of
which, and the Indians located thereabouts, we know nothing from the agent,
but something from the treaty commission. The Arickarees, Gros Ventres, and
Mandans are a very friendly and peaceable people, and industrious to a suffi-
cient extent to raise annually large quantities of corn for their subsistence.
Moreover, they desire to improve, and ask for schools in which their children
may be taught ; and these advantages will be secured to them if the late treaty
with them shall be ratified.

I have, under this heading, refrained from any 'notice of the important treaties
with the Indians of Dakota, as that subject has been particularly referred to in
the preliminary part of this report.

Measures have been taken to reward, with medals and money, several chiefs
who were reported by the commission as having rescued whites from captivity
and restored them to their friends.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 37

Agent Hanson mentions continued difficulty with persons who seem deter
mined to supply the Indians with whiskey, undeterred by the severe penalties
provided against the traffic, or the lamentable consequences to all parties of out-
rages committed by Indians when excited by intoxicating drinks. He has been
instructed to prosecute to the fullest extent provided in the existing laws every
possible means of putting a stop to this traffic.

A special agent has been sent up the Missouri to make the distribution of
goods provided in the treaties with the Sioux, and at least three permanent
agencies should.be provided for one at Fort BertholcU for the tribes confede-
rated at that point, (and which tribes are nominally in charge of Agent Wilkin-
son, who, being unprovided with any habitation, only visits the locality at in-
tervals ;) one at Fort Union, for the Assinaboines, just on the border of Montana ;
and, I may add here, another at or near the mouth of Milk river, for the Crows.
Some of these, of course, are dependent upon the ratification of treaties recently
made; but it would appear that an agency at Fort Union will be needed in any
event, the great amount of travel through that portion of the country, to and
from Montana, requiring the constant presence of a judicious man to keep the
Indians quiet, and see that their rights are not interfered with.

Since the removal of the Santees from Crow creek there are no Indian schools
in Dakota, but the pending arrangements in regard to the Poncas will supply
that tribe with the needed facilities ; while this office is in correspondence with
the American Board of Commissioners of Foreign Missions, with a view of estab-
lishing a school for the Yanctons, to be under the charge, it is hoped, of a gen-
tleman who has been highly recommended for his knowledge of the Dakota
language, as well as for earnest interest in the welfare of the Indians, It is
believed that the great success of the schools among the Santee Sioux, winle
yet in Minnesota, and since at Crow creek, has been the result of the knowledge
of the language of the people by the missionaries and teachers ; and that we may
eventually obtain from among the educated Santees teachers for the Sioux of
the upper Missouri, when those bands of the same great nation shall become
settled upon reservations.

Under this head, among the accompanying documents will be found the able
final report of the treaty commission, presenting many valuable suggestions as
to the proper method of maintaining peaceful relations wiih the powerful tribes
of Dakota. The commissioners pay a well-deserved tribute to the Indians
treated with last year for the faithfulness with which they observed their treaties
amidst the terrible scenes of the last winter, eating their ponies, (upon which they
depend for their hunting expeditions,) and the offal thrown out from the camps
of the soldiers, and even starving to death, rather than save their lives by plun-
dering the whites.

After the foregoing remarks were prepared, a special* report from ex-Gover-
nor Edmunds was received, which is placed among the accompanying documents.
Mr. Edmunds, it will be observed, takes a different view of the condition of
affairs at the Yancton agency from that presented by Special Agent Graves,- as
above stated. This office has no present means of reconciling the discrepancy.

It is proper to state, also, that just as this annual summary is about being
completed, a report has come to hand from Governor Faulk, who succeeded Mr.
Edmunds at a very recent date, and who, having visited the Yancton agency,
concurs with Mr. Graves in his statements regarding its condition.

IDAHO.

We make but slow progress in obtaining accurate information relative to In-
dian affairs in Idaho, although something has been gained. After the verbal
statements made by the late governor, Caleb Lyon, in the fall of 1865, and the
to him, it was thought that we should speedily be in

38 EEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

a condition to know more, and thus be better enabled to do what should be
necessary; but great disappointment has been the result. Shortly after his
return to Idaho, the governor appears to have become involved in quarrels,
political or otherwise, to an extent which resulted in his leaving the territory
last spring, having accomplished little, if anything, to the advantage of the In-
dian service ; and, on the contrary, failing to account for the large amount of gov-
ernment funds placed in his hands? causing great embarrassment to the office.
Measures have been taken to cause a proper accounting to be made ; but mean-
time, the long distance of the Territory from this city, and length of time occu-
pied in communicating with Mr. Lyon's successor, has necessarily delayed the
placing in his hands the funds for carrying out properly the duties pertaining to
the Indians. In order .to avoid this delay as much as possible, measures were
taken to place a part of the funds appropriated for Idaho with the United States
assistant treasurer at San Francisco, to be drawn by Governor Ballard, when the
treasurer shall be advised of the execution of a proper bond; and advices having
lately reached this office that such a bond is filed, the necessary operations of
the superiu tendency can now go forward with some degree of regularity.

Governor Ballard has been much embarrassed by finding no proper records of
the transactions of his predecessor, but is prompt with his annual report, to which,
and to the reports of Agent O'Neill and Special Agent Hough, reference is made
for details. Under the impressions obtained from Governor Lyon, he was in-
structed to make treaties with the Bannocks and Shoshonees in the southeastern,
and with the Boise Shoshonees in the southwestern part of the Territory, with a
view of placing them upon reservations ; to endeavor to conclude a new treaty
with the Nez Perces, the one pending in the Senate, ia 1863, not having been
acted upon ; and to set on foot negotiations with the Cceur d'Alenes and kindred
tribes in the far northern part of Idaho, near the British line.

Some time during last spring a treaty was received here, which had been con-
cluded by Governor Lyon with the Boise Shoshonees, providing for placing
them upon a certain reservation, and furnishing them with the usual aids for im-
provement and civilization. Various reasons, referred to above, had caused a
distrust of the governor's discretion or judgment, and no action was taken upon
that treaty; and later information fully justifies the course taken.

Governor Ballard's report discloses the fact that the Indians referred to are in
*no degree so far under the control of regularly constituted chiefs that they can
properly be treated with, though he favors placing them upon a reservation, a
course which the Indians themselves desire, as they are driven from their lim-
ited hunting grounds by the whites, and liable to be killed by white parties of
volunteers, who are accustomed to go out upon Indian scalp-hunting expedi-
tions, under the stimulus of rewards offered at public meetings of $25 to $100
per scalp ; and at the same time these unfortunate beings are in deadly fear of the
hostile Pi-Utes. The great difficulty appears to be to find a suitable place for a
reservation, embracing the necessary requisites of agricultural land, water, and
timber. At our latest dates' Special Agent Hough was engaged, thus far, with
little success, in finding a suitable place for those Indians. Directions have been
forwarded to the governor to advise this office immediately upon the discovery
of such a location, so that it may be withdrawn from public entrv and sale. The
bands referred to, numbering some six hundred, are miserably poor, and will
require some assistance this winter, in food and clothing, to keep them from
suffering.

The Nez Perec's, numbering by the last census 2,830, may well be called a
long-suffering people. Since the conclusion of a treaty with them in 1863, by
which, upon their yielding all claim to a very large tract of land lying in
Oregon and in the Territories of Washington and Idaho, a reservation of great
extent was set apart for them, and ample arrangements provided for their im-
provement, they have been crowded upon by the white settlers, acting with full

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 39

knowledge that that treaty had not been ratified, until towns of considerable
extent have grown up even within the limits of the proposed reservation,
Lewiston, the first capital of Idaho, being one of these towns ; and their country-
has been " prospected" in every direction by the enterprising miners.

Meantime the Indian chiefs who were opposed to the treaty, seeing the
promised payments withheld, have gained influence, arid caused some trouble
in the tribe ; and but for the efforts of "Lawyer," the^head chief, who has been
thoroughly faithful to the government, the difficulty would have been serious. Dur-
ing the late session of Congress, the Senate, on afull consideration of Indian matters
in that region, advised the ratification of the treaty of 186 J, and Congress made
the necessary appropriations under it. These are large, and contemplate expend-
itures for houses, mills, schools, and various improvements, and helps to civili-
zation, which, if judiciously made, will, in some measure, atone to this peaceable
and well-disposed tribe for much neglect.

. These people listened with attention to the appeals of the^ first missionaries
who visited their country, and have always since paid great attention to religious
worship ; but the influence of ,the numerous whiskey shops in every direction
around them seriously opposes their progress. It will be impossible to control
this evil so long as the reservation of the tribe is so extensive as at present, and
the earliest possible measures should be taken to reduce it for their good.

The annual report of their agent, Mr. O'Neill, indicates some progress in
agricultural pursuits, on the part of a few. He mentions one chief as owning
500 head of cattle. The people are stated to have had last year under
cultivation 2,680 acres of land, upon which they raised about 24,000 bushels of
grain, and 18,000 bushels of vegetables ; and their stock is returned at about
12,000 head. With all this, the "wealth of the tribe in individual property'
is returned at only $15,000, which is evidently far too small a figure, and not
doing justice to the Indians. The work of improvements at the. agency has
gone on slowly during the past year, on account of the want of funds, and the
schools, for that and other reasons, have been closed. Under the treaty, as now
ratified, ample provisions are made for educational purposes.

Among the accompanying documents relating to Montana, is inserted a letter
from Agent Chapman, of the Flathead Agency in that Territory, referring to a
visit made to him by " Gary," a Spokane chief from the borders of Washington
Territory, and the desire* expressed by him fora treaty by which his people;
who were being crowded and imj^sed upon by the whites, coij^d be united with
the Flatheads and confederated tribes upon their large reservation in Montana.
Upon this, letters were addressed to the superintendents of Montana, Idaho, and
Washington, directing them to cause the necessary inquiries to be made, and,
after correspondence with each other, to advise with this office. From Montana,
acting Governor Meagher has, some time since, reported against the proposed
movement ; for no reason, however, except his opinion that Agent Chapman
has enough occupation without adding to the number of his Indians. Governor
Ballard sends information that Superintendent Waterman, of Washington, has
required of the special agent in immediate charge of the Spokanes a report
upon the subject. From the information now received it would appear that a
satisfactory arrangement with the various tribes in eastern Washington and
northern Idaho, including the Spokanes, Colvilles, Cceur d'Alenes, aud a por
tion of the Kooteuays, can probably be accomplished by setting orf for them a
reasonable reservation in the country now occupied by the Coeur d'Alenes.

Late in the last summer Seth Kinman, of California, who had been highly
recommended by the department as specially qualified for an Indian agency,
was sent overland to report to Governor Ballard as a special agent, to.be assigned
to duty by the latter. His arrival has not yet been announced.

Special Agent Hough, who passed over the new road from San Francisco to
Boise City in the spring, reports constant hostilities from the bandi^bf Pi-U;es

40 KEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

and outlawed Bannocks of that region. A considerable portion of the troops
hitherto stationed there has been withdrawn, and the settlers are protecting
themselves after a very rough fashion. All this can be prevented, and peaceful
relations established, if the department had the means of negotiating with the
tribes of the country whose hunting grounds are invaded by the whites, and
who, in many cases, must steal or starve; or, if formal treaty negotiations are
not deemed advisable, of making moderate provisions for their physical wants
until they can be taught and habituated to self-sustaining labor.

Just as tins report is completed, advices are received from Governor Ballard
of great discontent among the Nez Perces, on account of a claim set up by a
private individual to the section of land including all the agency buildings.

MONTANA.

No annual report from this superintendency has been received. The governor,
and ex-officio superintendent, Hon. Sidney Edgerton, has been absent from the
Territory a considerable portion of the time, and the general interests of the
service have been in the hands of General Meagher, secretary and acting gov-
ernor, who, at last accounts was about leaving the capital of the Territory to
visit the Flath'ead agency.

The agency last named, after having been transferred, on erroneous informa-
tion, to the Idaho superintendency, was early in the year again placed in its
former relations to Montana. The absence of reports from Agent Chapman
is much to be regretted, as the agency is an important and interesting one.

The only other agency in the Territory is that for the Blackfeet Indians,
with its headquarters at Fort Benton. Mr. Upson, who had charge last year,
left for' Washington in January, via San Francisco, but died in California.
A treaty which had been made in November, with the Blackfeet and Gros
Ventres, was found among his papers, and reached this office after the lapse of
some time. Other papers were also transmitted, exhibiting the fact that a part
of the Indians treated wiih had almost immediately broken oat into hostility.
These accounts being confirmed by advices from the acting governor, it was
not deemed advisable to recommend the ratification of this treaty by the President.

The several bands of Blackfeet, it appears, are the Indians who have persisted
in hostilities, while the Gros Ventres, associated with them, have been entirely
friendly and peaceable as to the whites, and a^jso as to other Indians, so far as
the attacks of the latter upon them would allow. It is much to be regretted
that a separate treaty was not made with these Gros Ventres, so that they
might have received the benefits promised them. In view of their good conduct,
it was designed that the northwestern treaty commissioners should reach them
and enter into a separate treaty with them, but that commission found it impracti-
cable to do so.

A new agent for the Blackfeet, Mr. George B. Wright, accompanied the com-
mission as far as it went; but instead of proceeding direct to his destination,
as, from the advices received, it is thought he might safely have done, he returned
down the Missouri, and proceeded to his destination overland, arriving at a very
recent date. Such information as has been received from him is placed among
the accompanying documents, where also will be found a report by Mr. Upham,
who had charge of the agency in the interim between the departure of Agent
Upson and the arrival of Mr. Wright, and who gives full evidence of the hos-
tility of the Blackfeet.

Reference to a recommendation by the agent of the Flatheads in favor of
uniting the Spokanes, Cceur d'Alenes, and other tribes upon the Flathead res-
ervation has been made under the head of Idaho.

Among the recommendations by acting Governor Meagher was one for the
establislimAt of an agency for certain bands of Bannocks and Shoshonees, rep-

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, 41

resented to be in the southern part of Montana, about the headwaters of the
Yellowstone. As tin's is the country claimed by and conceded to tlie Crows,
and as the northeastern Bannocks and Shoshonees, treated with by ex-Governor
Doty, did not claim an eastern boundary this side of the Wind River moun-
tains, it seems doubtful whether the last-mentioned Indians can be other than
roving bands, properly belonging in Idaho or northern Utah. The agent at
Fort Bridger, who has charge of Washakee's band of Shoshonees, has been
directed to inquire into this matter.

General Meagher recommends the establishment of an agency for the Crows
at Kercheval City, near the mouth of the Muscle Shell, but the Indians them-
selves preferred that it should be placed near the mouth of Milk river, and the
treaty so provides. This agent should also have charge of the Gros Ventres.

An interesting question was presented to the office early in the year, where a
British subject, at some point on the Flathead reservation, brought on a stock
of goods and proposed to open trade with the Indians without license, claiming
to have the privilege of doing so under certain reserved rights of the Hudson's
Bay Company in the Ashburton treaty. The agent was instructed to require
a license, as no such right existed.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCE

From the annual report of Superintendent Taylor, ,and those of such of the
agents as have come to hand, we obtain a variety of interesting information as
to the tribes under their charge.

The agencies within the northern superintendency are seven in number, and
are as follows : Omahas, population by last census 997, Agent Furnas ; Win-
nebagoes, population 1,750, Agent Mathewson; Ottoes and Missourias, popula-
tion 511, Agent Smith; Sacs and Foxes of Missouri, and lowas, (Great Ne-
maha agency,) population 380,' Agent Norris ; Pawnees, population 2,750,
Agent Becker ; Santee Sioux, population 1,350, Agent Stone ; and Upper
Platte agency, having charge of the Ogallalla and Brule Sioux, numbering
7,865 by the latest estimates, and the northern Cheyennes and Arapahoes,
numbering 2,550. The total number of Indians in charge of this superin-
tendency is. thus seen to be 18,153.

Mr. Taylor was one of the commissioners who, at Fort Laramie, during the
past summer, met and treated with two of the powerful bands of Sioux, and had
conferences preliminary to a treaty with other Indians. This subject has been
referred to heretofore, under the head of " Indian Treaties of the Year." It
was particularly necessary that these Indians should be pacified.- By their hos-
tility the great overland route to Colorado and the region beyond, to the west
and northwest, had been rendered unsafe. The Indians naturally yield their
hunting grounds very reluctantly, and it will require great care in their man-
agement to secure uninterrupted travel through their country.

Indeed, as has been stated already in another connexion, a small portion of
the Sioux resolutely refuse to treat, and propose to resist, at all hazards, the
use of a route to Montana already much sought by emigrants to that region.

Superintendent Taylor recites in his report the various events leading to the
late treaty at Fort Laramie.

It is but just to add that the favorable result brought about was, in a great
measure, due to the good influence acquired over the Indians by their kind
treatment at the hands of Colonel Maynadier, commanding that post. One illus-
tration of this good feeling, being an account of the Christian burial among the
whites of the daughter of a Sioux chief, at his request, is placed among the ac-
companying papers.

Quite recently advices have been received from Agent Patrick that some 150
of the northern Arapahoes and Cheyennes had come down to the fort for the
purpose of entering into treaty stipulations with the government.

42 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

Complaints have been very frequent in Kansas during the summer, and till
a recent period, of outrages of various kinds, involving, in some cases, the loss
of life and the infliction of savage barbarities upon defenceless frontier settlers ;
and the authorities of that State deemed it necessary to take measures to put
a stop to them. It has not appeared that the military authorities of that dis-
trict were either unable or unwilling to take the matter in hand, though such
may have been the case ; but this office was advised that a general of the Kan-
sas militia was engaged in persuading a large number of the men of some of the
tribes, residing upon reservations in that State, to join his forces in an expedi-
tion to chastise the bands engaged in the outrages referred to. Directions were
at once sent to the superintendent, Mr. Murphy, to prevent his Indians from
joining in any such expedition, as it was not deemed advisable to allow of the
employment of those Indians, and the inevitable hostility to be aroused be-
tween them and other Indians with whom they might come in contact. It was
at the time supposed that the " dog soldiers " of the Cheyennes were the authors
of those alleged outrages, but by recent correspondence between General Cloud,
the Kansas officer above alluded to, and Superintendent Taylor, they appear to
be charged upoii the Ottoes, Pawnees, and Omahas, of the northern superin-
tendency. General Cloud, as agent, appointed by the State authorities, re-
quested the superintendent to send down to a point named in western Kansas
some of the chiefs -of the tribes named, that they might attend an investigation
of these matters, proposed to be had at that place. Superintendent Taylor has
referred the correspondence to this office, and has been instructed to decline
sending a delegation of the chiefs, as requested, but to assure the parties who
are seeking to identify the guilty parties that if they will present their evidence,
the most careful investigation will be made in each tribe, in order to ascertain
if such parties are harbored among them.

The superintendent expresses a very decided opinion that neither the Oinahas
nor Pawnees are guilty, but is not sure that some of the Ottoes may not have
been engaged in these outrages.

The Omahas have had a very prosperous year, and have, as usual, paid
much attention to farming. If the stipulations of their treaty providing for the
allotment of their lands in severalty were carried into effect, the ag^nt thinks
the tribe would abandon the chase altogether. Every year more of the men
and less of the women labor in the fields, the latter being left to their household
work. The population of this tribe by the last census was 997, showing a slight
decrease since last year. The people have raised this season about 65,000
bushels of grain, and 8,000 bushels of potatoes and other vegetables, their crop
being valued at $35,725. They dispose of their surplus products to advantage
among the whites, and are in a very comfortable condition.

A change has been made in the superintendent of their mission school, and the
result has been beneficial. The report shows 61 scholars in attendance, with a
progress generally satisfactory.

The agent expresses the opinion that there should be a more general diffu-
sion of education among them, that sufficient facilities should be provided for
educating all their children within certain ages, and that attendance should be
compulsory. The theory is a good one, and were the means at hand to pro-
vide the necessary buildings and teachers, the plan could, at all events, bo
tried. The Omahas last year showed their willingness to adopt such a system,
by agreeing to the insertion of a clause in their last treaty by which the annui-
ties of those who should refuse to send their children to school should be stopped.
The clause was not inserted, however.

Estimates for the survey of the reservation, with a view to allotments, have
been prepared, and it is contemplated to effect this much-desired improvement
in their condition in time for them to labor upon individual lands next year.

Our accounts from the Winnebago agency are quite favorable, and the agent,

REPORT OF THE. COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. ' 43

Mr. Mathewson, appears to be the right man in the right place. The tribe is
fortunate in being in charge of a person who takes a deep interest in its welfare,
as the people have suffered much during the three years which have elapsed
since their removal from Minnesota, their census showing a diminution of 400
or 500 since that period. Under the provisions of their late treaty, which are
being carried into effect upon the new reservation purchased for them of the
Omahas, rapid progress is being made in restoring them to comfort and inde-
pendence.

Immediately after the ratification of that treaty, Agent Mathewson repaired
to the reservation, and after a conference with the chiefs, and assuring them of
tht good intention of the government in their behalf, proceeded with the prom-
ised improvements. His monthly report for May showed that the necessary
buildings had already been erected for a storehouse, lodging for employes, car-
penters' shop, &c., two miles of fence built, and four hundred acres of land pre-
pared for crops. Upon the land cultivated by the Indians they have raised
this year some 20,000 bushels of corn, thus materially aiding in their subsist-
ence.

The tribe has not yet recovered from the general debility resulting from their
past sufferings, and the general health of ttie people is not good ; but they feel
encouraged by the hope that a better day is coming for them.

The agent Jias furnished them with clothing such as is worn by whites, so
that they present little of the appearance of Indians. Arrangements are on
foot to provide them with the facilities of education, of which they will gladly
avail themselves, and the best hopes are entertained of the future prosperity of
the tribe.

The Ottoes and Missourias, confederated upon a reservation lying on the line
dividing Nebraska and Kansas, have profited comparatively little by the stipu-
lations heretofore made for their benefit in treaties, and the provisions for em-
ployes for a certain period, to teach them the arts of self-sustaining industry,
have expired, leaving them nearly as wild as before. They, however, have at
length begun to see that they must labor if they would live, and have con-
sented to the payment of a farmer from their annuities, and have raised a crop
this year of 4,500 bushels of grain, besides putting up some 65 tons of hay for
their horses. They number 511 in all.

The mission school formerly maintained for the benefit of this tribe by the
Presbyterian board was long ago abandoned, and the Indians desire the estab-
lishment of another, the agent recommending that the present agency building
be repaired for the purpose, and that a new building be erected for the use of
the agent.

It is stated that many white settlers are taking advantage of the disappear-
ance of the stakes of the survey of the reservation, and encroaching upon its
lines, cutting timber, &c. Measures must be taken to run out the lines again,
so as to define it plainly, and thereby avoid trouble with the tribe, which is
somewhat excited on account of this alleged invasion of their rights.

At the Great Nemaha agency are the lowas and Sacs and Foxes of Missouri,
numbering together 380 persons. In my last annual report I had occasion to
mention the fact that a considerable sum of money, placed in the hands of a
special agent to be paid over to half-breeds of this agency, had not been so paid
over. The special agent referred to died in New Orleans, and the funds were
paid over by his sureties, and those who were entitled to the money have
received it.

Of the lowas of this agency the agent speaks somewhat favorably, as they
appear willing to labor, and have raised a fair crop of corn and vegetables, cul-
tivating some four hundred acres. The Sacs and Foxes, however, are repre-
sented as being too lazy to work, and generally improvident, and, as a neces
sary result, poor.

44 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

The Pawnees went upon their usual hunt in the winter, returning with a large
supply of meat and robes, by the use and sale of which they were made quite
comfortable. In the spring, they, under the charge of their agent, planted a
considerable breadth of land, and the crops being well attended to and the season
favorable, the yield has been large.

Constant complaint is made of the steam mill upon this reservation. The
wood required for keeping it in operation must be hauled from a considerable
distance, and this labor, together with the cutting of the wood, is very reluctantly
performed by the Indians, while the regular force provided by treaty can be
employed to better advantage. It has been heretofore recommended that a new
mill be built, to run by water, upon a location easily accessible, and thus tlie
services of an engineer be dispensed with ; but under existing restrictions, by
act of Congress, against the diversion of funds provided in treaties for any
other use than that specifically set forth, this cannot *be done. The Indians
would gladly consent to the change.

The school mentioned last year as established, after long delay, in the new and
extensive building erected at the expense of the tribe, has continued in charge
of the teacher then employed ; but, deeming it desirable that a more effective
and permanent interest should be established in this school, arrangements are
nearly perfected for placing.it under the charge of the Methodist Mission board,
and hopes are entertained that this friendly tribe will profit largely by the
arrangement. The school-house has ample accommodations, it is understood,
for one hundred scholars ; and a manual labor school, faithfully conducted, will
do much to elevate the Pawnees, by teaching their children the arts of self-
sustaining labor, as contemplated in the management of such institutions.

In the month of August there appeared in this city nine Pawnees, consisting
of seven men, one woman, and a little child, in charge of two individuals, one of
whom had the assurance to pretend that these people had come, with him as
interpreter, to obtain pay due to their tribe for services as scouts upon the fron-
tier. Upon an investigation into the matter, it was found that the whole story
was a fabrication of this man, who had started with the Indians on an exhibition
tour through the country ; finding which speculation unprofitable, he intended
to leave them upon the hands of the government,' which in fact he did, leaving
the city before he could be arrested. His arrest would probably have availed
but little, as there is no law prohibiting such conduct. Such an enactment is
necessary, and I trust will be provided. One other such case has occurred
during the year. These Pawnees were provided by the War Department with
rations and quarters for a short time, during which they gratified the dowager
Queen of the Sandwich islands, by appearing before her in their native costume,
and* were then returned to their homes in Nebraska. I regret to add that, in
view of the fact that their agent, Mr. Wheeler, was found to have given written
permission to the man who had these Indians in charge to take them from the
reserve and exhibit them through the country, it was deemed proper tu recom-
mend his dismissal from office.

Santee Sioux. Very important action having been taken by this office since
the last annual report relative to the several bands of Santee Sioux, and their
location having been changed to the Territory of Nebraska, I have deemed it
expedient, in order to present a connected and intelligible narrative of events,
to make all necessary reference to the subject under the head of the northern
superintendency, although the Indians in question have heretofore lived in
Dakota and Minnesota.

At the period of the last report the condition of the various portions of the
Santee Sioux, known in our treaties as the Sisseton, Wahpaton, Mendawakan-
ton, and Wahpakoota bands, was about as follows :

Nearly or quite 1,000 were at the Crow Creek reservation, near Fort Randall,
far up the Missouri river. These were mostly old men, women, and children,

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 45

the families of those who had been hung in Minnesota for participation in the
massacre of 1862, or of those who were imprisoned at Davenport for alleged
complicity in the same outbreak. In this number were also some sixty who
had been imprisoned at the last-named place, and released by order of President
Lincoln. These Indians had thus far failed in their willing labors to raise crops
at Crow creek, and the expenses of their care, subsistence, and clothing, includ-
ing transportation, had annually nearly or quite exhausted the appropriation of
$100,000 made by Congress for their benefit, with no prospect of any improve-
ment in the future. It was evident, from the successive annual reports from
that quarter^ and particularly from the reports of the northwestern treaty com-
missioners, who visited the reservation, that the Indians must be removed from
that place to one where they could earn their own subsistence.

Some two hundred Indians were at Davenport, held as prisoners by the War
Department, under military guard, since the fall of 1862. A part -of the original
numbers taken prisoners by voluntary surrender of themselves in most cases
had been hung, and a part sent to Crow Creek, as above mentioned. Persons
fully cognizant of the facts in the case had all along insisted that the really
guilty parties had for the most part escaped, and that many of these very pris-
oners had- actually exerted themselves to save the lives of whites, and had urged
their release as having been sufficiently punished for such small degree of com-
plicity in the outbreak as was proved against them, and on account of their
exemplary conduct while in confinement. The military authorities had ex-
pressed their intention to release them, and measures had been taken, looking
towards a formal pardon to be issued by the President in their favor, in order
that they might join their people at Crow creek when released; but General
Pope had objected earnestly against their being sent to that place, on account
of its being of too easy communication with those Sioux who were but lately ia
hostility.

About three hundred of these people were living upon various portions of
their old reservation in Minnesota, leading a precarious life. Many of these
men had acted a noble part in withstanding the onset of their people upon the
whites, and had, at the risk of their lives, saved and rescued many captives.
Congress had acknowledged their services by appropriating $7,500 to be paid
to certain individuals among them, and by securing to them the right of eighty
acres of land for each family, including improvements, upon the old reservation ;
this privilege being valueless to them, since the white settlers would not consent
to their remaining in that region permanently. * Bishop Whipple, of Minnesota,
and other persons, had taken a warm interest in those meritorious and unfor-
tunate people, and earnestly urged the department to provide for them.

In the neighborhood of Fort Wadsworth, Dakota Territory, not far. from the
northwestern extremity of their old reservation, were some six or eight hundred
of these Sioux, who had fled from the indiscriminate vengeance of the whites in
1862, though for the most part persistently urging their innocence of any share
in the massacres planned and carried into effect by the lower Sioux, these people
belonging to the upper bauds. A large number of this band had been engaged
and paid as scouts upon the frontier by the military authorities, and the rations
issued, from time to time to them and their families, with such small means as
they possessed of cultivating the soil, had furnished them a meagre support.

Besides these four classes, the remainder of the bands hitherto named, and
comprising most of the really guilty parties, had fled far to the north, and were
either in or near the British possessions, defiantly determined, for the most part,
not to make terms of peace, but, according to some accounts, exhibiting excep-
tional cases of leading men who were willing to lay down their arms.

The earnest attention of this office has been directed to the subject, with the
desire of adopting some just and practicable plan for improving the condition of

46' REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

these various classes of Indians, and of doing justice to all without unnecessarily
increasing the burdens of the government.

Such was the condition of affairs when Superintendent Taylor, whose atten-
tion, as one of the north western commissioners, had been called to the case of the
Indians at Crow dreek, and who had been directed to make special examination
with reference to a proper location for these Indians, being present in this city
in February last, reported in favor of a reservation of four townships within his
superintendency, at the mouth of the Niobrara river in Nebraska. Several other
locations were proposed and considered, but the question of economy in the
transportation of necessary supplies until the people could raise crops sufficient
to sustain them, the reasonable certainty that they could succeed in agricultural
operations at that point, and the objection of the military authorities to a con-
centration of the other classes of these Sioux north and west, were sufficient to
turn the scale' in favor of Niobrara; and, under the date of March 1, four town-
ships of land were, by order of the department, set apart for the purpose, it
being understood the improvements already made by settlers upon these lands
could be purchased for about $40,000, and that many of the buildings thus pur-
chased would be needed and valuable for the purposes of the agency. Measures
were immediately taken to notify the agency at Crow creek of the intended
removal, which it was then thought could, by the co-operation of the War De-
partment in furni-hing transportation, be accomplished in time for the Indians
tcr put in the spring crops at Niobrara. Delay and final disappointment, how-
ever, was the lot of these plans as to transportation, and the removal took place
by land, the Indians arriving at their new reservation June 12, too late to
plant a crop. Meantime the military authorities notified this office that they
intended to turn over the Indians at Davenport to the civil authorities by the
10th of April, the prisoners having been pardoned by the President. A special
agent was at once appointed to receive and take them to the Niobrara reserva-
tion, with instructions to proceed at once, upon his arrival, to preparing land
for cultivation.

This agent, Mr. Jedediah Brown, not being heard from immediately, it be-
came necessary to take action at once, and, under date of April 5, Mr. E. Kil-
patrick was detailed from the department to proceed to Davenport and receive
the Indians and accompany them to their destination, delivering them to Mr.
Brown if he should present himself, or, in default, to proceed to carry out the in-
structions furnished him. Mr. Kil^atrick reported subsequently that he had de-
livered the Indians to Mr. Brown/at St. Joseph, on the Missouri, (the transport-
ation having been furnished by the War Department,) and thenceforward they
remained under his charge until June 12, when he turned them over to Agent
Stone, who had arrived with the main body of the tribe from Crow creek. Mean-
time, however, Mr. Brown had accomplished much valuable work with the In-
dians in his charge, in preparing the ground and planting crops, so that with
reasonable success a fair supply will be raised towards the support of those people
this year.

About the 1st of April, Major General Sibley was authorized to employ some
reliable person, in whom the Indians about Fort Wadsworth reposed confidence,
to secure a proper representation of those bands, and, if possible, of those who
were still hostile, at Fort Rice, on the Missouri, with a view of entering into a
treaty with the commissioners, then en route up the Missouri ; and that officer re-
ported April 16, that he had engaged Mr. J. K. Brown for that purpose.

It was intended to collect that portion of the Indians who were still upon the
, old reservation, and remove them to Niobrara, in time to plant a crop there, but
various delays occurred to prevent the consummation of this part of the plan.

A thorough examination of the whole matter relating to these Sioux resulted
in the deliberate conviction that, as a people, they had not been treated fairly or
with just discrimination by the government, and the forfeiture of their annuities

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 47

had been a measure uncalled for and unjust to a large number of the people who
had not taken part in the outbreak of 1862, and an elaborate report upon the sub-
ject was prepared by this office April 20, and submitted by the department to
Congress, favoring the restoration for the benefit of the tribe of such portion of
the capital of their annuiiies as had not been used for the payment of losses and
damages by those hostilities.

A few days later came a protest addressed to the President, May 8, by Mr.
Burleigh, delegate from Dakota, against the removal of the Crow Creek and
Davenport Indians to Niobrara, as being a measure fraught with danger to the
frontier settlements. To this as well as 'to a resolution of inquiry by the House
of Representatives, dated May 21, this office replied by report to the department,
stating the facts in the case, and endeavoring to remove objections which ap-
peared to be unfounded. Such ample proof of the good conduct and disposition
of these two classes of Indians had been received through Mr. Kilpatrick, who
had had charge of the released prisoners from Davenport, and from Rev. Mr. Reed,
of. the northwestern commission, who had spent some time at Crow Creek, just
previous to the departure of those Indians to the eastward, and who, after noticing
their schools and religious services, had reported them as being " for intelligence,
reliability, diligence, and morality, among other Indians like light in a dark
place ;" that it was felt that no possible danger could occur from the new location.

Previous to turning over his charge to Agent Stone, Mr. Brown had made a
careful appraisal of the land and improvements of the settlers upon the Niobrara
reservation, showing an aggregate of about $36,000, being about one-half of the
amount at which the occupants hold their property. Measures should be taken
to make an equitable settlement with these settlers, so as to leave the reserva-
ions in the exclusive occupancy of the Indians ; and as, upon the recommendation
of this office of July 13, two additional townships, upon which there are a few
settlers, have been set apart as an enlargement of the reservation, provision
should also be made for the payment of their just claims.

If the Crow Creek Indians could have been brought down to Niobrara in time
to raise a full crop this year, there would probably have been a sufficient saving
from the amount appropriated for their use to pay for all these improvements of
the settlers. As it is, recent advices from the reservation are so favorable as, in
the judgment of this office, to vindicate fully the removal of the Indians to that
point.

The estimates for funds now required must be left for further consideration
upon the receipt of the accounts of the quarter.

As soon as it was ascertained that the remnants of the tribe in Minnesota could
not be taken to Niobrara in time to plant a crop this year, measures were taken
to afford relief to a portion of them at least, by distributing the sum of $7,500
appropriated by Congress for their use, and a reliable special agent, Mr. S. Adams,
was instructed to make the necessary investigation, in order to a just and proper
use of the fund.

With the assistance of Bishop Whipple, who has been the warm friend of these
Indians throughout, Mr. Adams reported June 25 a list of those entitled ; and as
it was necessary for him to leave, to prosecute other duties, the funds were
sent to Mr. J. R. Daniels, at Faribault, he having given bond for distribution.
Subsequently, upon a report of Mr. Adams as to number and locality of the In-
dians who were to go to Niobrara, Mr. A. Faribault, whose kindness to these
Indians had .been steady as well as expensive to him, was designated to collect
and take them to that reservation. Upon his report of recent date it has, how-
ever, been deemed advisable not to make the removal till next spring.

It only remains to notice the result of the attempt to bring about treaty ar-
rangements with the bands of Santee Sioux, in the neighborhood of Fort Wads-
worth and further north. General Sibley had reported, April 16, that Mr. Brown,
who had been employed as before stated, thought that he would be able to secure

48 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

a representation from at least four of the six northern bands, but would proceed
with sucli representation as could be obtained.

By the report of the treaty commission we learned of the failure of negotiations
with those bands, on account of demands made by them, (under the advice of
Mr. Brown, as it is alleged,) to which the commissioners did not feel justified in
acceding, and the delegates returned to Fort Wadsworth. Since that time a
communication has been received from a portion of these people through a mis-
sionary friend, to whom they had written in their own language, (many of them
being educated to some extent,) setting forth their regret at the failure of Jie ne-
gotiations, and their wishes to make some arrangement to improve their condition.

It is feared that these people will suffer much during the approaching winter
if not aided in some manner by the government. If the policy set forth and
urged upon Congress in the report from this office, under date of April 20, shall
be adopted, the department will have the means of providing for these bands at
least, and it is recommended that a reasonable reservation in the vicinity of Fort
Wadsworth may be set apart for them.

The interest upon the capital fund restored, as recommended in that report,
together with the avails of the reservation in Minnesota now being appraised,
will provide an ample fund for all these bands of Sioux.

Various papers referred to in this summary, furnishing details for the informa-
tion of those who desire to. know the particulars of the operations above men-
tioned, will be found aAiong the accompanying documents.

Of the Upper Platte agency, and the tribes under its charge, sufficient has
been said under the head of this superintendency, and under that of Indian treaties.
Affairs have been sadly mismanaged in past years, and the Indians grievously
wronged by government officers, whose duty it was to protect them in their rights,
and the loss of many lives and a vast amount of valuable property has been the
result. We may be permitted to hope for better things in the future. Upon the
quiet and friendly feeling of the Indians of this superintendency depends the
safe transit of the growing commerce of the plains, the overland stage and wagon
route, telegraph, and Pacific railroad traversing -it through its whole length from
east to west.

CENTRAL SUPERINTENDENCY.

The annual report of Superintendent Murphy is received, together with those
of most of the agents in charge of the various tribes of Kansas, all living upon
reservations except the Kiowas and Comanches, and the Cheyennes, Arapahoes,
and Apaches, who, while having a nominal headquarters in the neighborhood of
Fort Lamed, in southwestern Kansas, roam over a wide extent of country.
All of these Indians are considered as belonging to a central superintendency ;
the Osages, however, on the southern boundary of that State, being in tha
southern superintendency.

From the first-named tribes, however, we have no statistics ; the remainder
of the tribes number about 6,000, and of these the Kaws, whose population is
670, and the Sacs and Foxes of Mississippi, numbering about 800, do very little
in the way of agriculture ; yet the statistics of these 6,000 Indians exhibit the
fact that from 11,645 acres of land cultivated they have raised this year over
350,000 bushels of grain, and 27,000 bushels of potatoes and other vegetables ;
that they have cut about 4,000 tons of hay ; that they own 6,000 horses and
nearly 6,000 head of other stock ; that their wealth in property, owned by in-
dividuals, is over $1,000,000, aside from their annuities ; and that they have eight
schools, with 491 scholars in attendance. Considering the disadvantages under
which these people labor, and the fact that so large a portion of their number as
yet decline to enter upon agricultural pursuits, it is submitted whether the
averag products of their labor do not indicate that the Indian race is capable

EEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 49

of obtaining and retaining a position among civilized people equal to that which
our best hopes for them have conceived.

It is to be regretted that, with all this apparent prosperity, reasons exist for
expecting, in the case of most of these tribes, a check to their progress in civili-
zation Allusion has heretofore been made to the difficulties which lie in their
way, arising from the crowding into the immediate vicinity of their reservations
of white settlers upon the public lands, lying in every direction, subject to public
entry, around those reservations. Among these settlers are too many who are
unscrupulous as to the rights of the Indians ; their timber, scarce in Kansas at
the best, is cut down, and their stock run off in many instances,. and the hope of
redress is. very small. On account of these and other troubles most of the In-
dians, including many of the most intelligent and best educated, are anxious to
remove to the Indian country south of Kansas, where white settlers cannot in-
terfere with them. When once settled upon new and fertile reservations there,
it may be hoped that they will realize their hopes of earning a comfortable living
in peace ; but the business of opening and preparing new farms and homes is a
tedious and laborious one, and some time must occur before these things are ac-
complished. The State of Kansas is fast being filled by an energetic population
who appreciate good land, and the Indian reservations were selected as being the
best in the State. But one result can be expected to follow.

Under the head of the Northern Superintendency reference was made to cer-
tain difficulties between Indians and frontier settlers, resulting in an attempted
gathering of volunteers from the reservation tribes, and to the action of this office
thereupon. It only remains to add that, upon the reference to this office of the
question as to permitting the Indians to enlist for a term of years in the regular
army, under recent enactments, authorizing the enlistment of certain regiments
for frontier service, there was no hesitation in granting the desired permission.

The Kickapoos, the northernmost of the Kansas tribes, numbering 242 in all,
are represented by their agent to be in a favorable condition. They have culti-
vated 1,083 acres this year and broken 251 more for planting; ard their crops
have realized for them about 48,000 bushels of grain and 1,30ft bushels of pota-
toes. They own about 700 head of stock, and their individual wealth is stated
at $44,290. One strong evidence is given of their good disposition and conduct
in the fact that, although both the overland route and Atchison and Pike's Peak
railroad pass through their reservation, there is little or no drunkenness among
them. These Indians having expressed a desire for the re-establishment of a
school among them, their wishes have been granted, and at last accounts four-
teen children were in attendance in a portion of the old mission building, re-
paired for the purpose, and were learning rapidly under a faithful teacher.

The opportunity of introducing the Kindergarten system has been given to
this school. The agent thinks that it would be well to establish a manual labor
school in the building as soon as the funds of the tribe are increased, as they soon
will be by payments for their lands sold under the last treaty ; but it is ques-
tionable whether it is best to undertake such a movement until it is certain that
the majority of the people will conclude to remain in Kansas.

The condition of this little tribe is somewhat peculiar, as now organized and
resident upon their reservation. The majority of the people are not Kickapoos
by blood," but Pottawatomies, who some years since purchased a right to a share
in the lands and annuities of the tribe ; and when, under the last treaty, allotments
were made upon the diminished reserve, a majority of those who took them were
Pottawatomies-, while most of the genuine Kickapoos continued to live upon the
common lands.

But, somewhere in the south, lost to view among the fragmentary tribes
driven hither and thither by the events of the rebellion, there is supposed to be
4 c i

50 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

still remaining a large number of Kickapoos, who would gladly rejoin the trib
upon a reservation in the Indian country.

A considerable number of the Kansas portion of the tribe are anxious to make
a new treaty, providing for selling their lands and removing to the south, but a
Tecent effort to effect a treaty arrangement with them failed, owing to the dis-
content of the people of all parties, on account of their not having received
certain expected benefits from the last treaty made with them.

In any event it may be expected that some few of these people will remain
with a view of becoming citizens of the United States, and these will for the
most part be of_the Pottawatomie portion of the tribe.

The annual report from the Shawnee agency exhibits the condition of those
people in a very favorable aspect. The census of those upon the annuity roll
amounts to 660, of which 594 belong to the class which holds lands in sever alty,
and 66 to that which holds in common ; and the aggregate amount of property
owned by individuals is stated at $619,392. The number of acres cultivated
was 3,667, producing over 100,000 bushels of grain, 5,000 bushels of potatoes,
&c., the total value of the crop being given at $69,345. They own 2,600
head of stock of all kinds, valued at $54,597. Morally the condition of the
people is also good, every dram-shop being closed, and not a drunken Indian
seen for a month previous to the report.

The interest of the people in education is increasing. Some forty children at
the manual labor school were making good progress, and many of the children
of the tribe attend the district schools of the State. It would appear from the
agent's report that the United States senators from Kansas have recently had
a conference with the Shawnees, in which the opinion was plainly expressed by
tire former, that if the suits with reference to taxes hitherto referred to shall
be decided by the United States Supreme Court favorably to the right to tax,
those who are thus taxed will necessarily become citizens of the United
States, and lose their tribal rights and interests. Some of the most intelligent
and civilized of the Shawnees are ready to take this step, and desire to do so;
but apparently a majority do not desire it, arid prefer to retain their tribal
organization and remove south, while both classes claim that the government
cannot bylaw abrogate the provisions of a treaty, which secures them tribal rights.

The question is one of great importance, involving the interests of not only
this tribe but many others, and its decision is awaited with great anxiety. This
tribe furnished over 100 soldiers to the United States army in the late war,
and they proved to be brave and efficient men.

The subject of the treaty now pending in the Senate made with this people
last spring has been already referred to. The superintendent expresses the
opinion that it would have been greatly to the advantage of the tribe if that
treaty had been ratified so that arrangements might by this time have been
well under way for removing the Shawnees to a new home in the south, where
there are already hundreds of their number who have refused to avail themselves
of the benefits of the previous treaty, but who would join the tribe again if re-
moved to the Indian country.

P Ottawa tomies. This tribe is, so far as a considerable portion of its members
resident in Kansas are concerned, rapidly advancing in civilization, and large
numbers are preparing to assume the duties and privileges of citizens of the
United States; at the last census they numbered 1,992, being an increase of
118 since last year, and the agent thinks that this increase is not altogether
attributable to the return of absentees, but partly to a real increase of numbers
consequent upon the generally favorable physical and moral condition of the
people.

Two seasons of plenty have done much towards their prosperity, and the in-
dividual property of the members of the tribe is estimated at $144,000, exclu-
sive of the value of their crop and their annuities. They have cultivated 1,900

EEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 51

acres this year, realizing .70,000 bushels of grain, 6,250 bushels of potatoes,
and 1,400 tons of hay, and own about 4,500 head of stock.

Still a considerable number of the people fail or refuse to take advantage of
the benefits provided for them in their treaty, and either remain in a shiftless
condition upon the reservation, or wander off to Iowa and Wisconsin, seeking a
precarious living by begging, fishing, hunting, &c.

It is found very difficult to prevent the sale of whiskey among them, and
convictions by the Kansas courts are so rare as to discourage appeals to the law.
These difficulties will necessarily increase when, by the sale of the surplus
lands of the tribe after all allotments are made, the white settlers become inter-
spersed among the Indians, and the agent thinks that a treaty providing for
the removal to the south of all who do not become citizens will be found
necessary.

During the last year certificates of allotments have been made to a large num-
ber of Indians entitled to them, and some progress has been made towards the
completion of the list of those who are entitled to citizenship, and to the pay-
ment of their share of the capital fund of the tribe.

The St. Mary's (Catholic) mission school continues to prosper, and to confer
great benefit upon the children of the tribe, and another school is about being
opened with flattering prospects in the old Baptist mission building, under the
auspices of the Home Missionary Society of that church.

The Delawares exhibit a condition somewhat similar to that of the last-men-
tioned tribe, many of them being intelligent, industrious, and prosperous, while
the majority are improvident. All have allotments ; their land is the best pos-
sible for farming purposes, and they might all be in a prosperous condition.
Doubtless the uncertainty prevailing as to their remaining in Kansas has in-
duced an indifference towards the making of improvements at their present loca-
tion.

Many who have not themselves worked their farms have realized something
from them by renting them to colored men for a share of the produce. Many
of the young men who were in the United States army have come home con-
siderably demoralized, and there have been so many assaults committed by
them, in some instances fatal, that the national council was called together and
enacted a code of laws providing penalties for various misdeeds. A copy of
this code is presented among the accompanying documents as a favorable
specimen of Indian legislation. The population of the tribe is 1,065 by the
last census, and the wealth in individual property, aside from annuities, $244,800.
They have raised this year about 72,000 bushels of grain, and 13,000 bushels
of potatoes and other vegetables, and own nearly 5,000- head of stock.

Their school has been in successful operation with 100 scholars, the sexes
being divided about equally, and the children being well cared for and deriving
great benefit from the care bestowed upoii them. Provision is also made for
introducing the Kindergarten system here.

A treaty was made with this tribe July 4 of this year, providing for a re-
moval to a new home in the Indian country of all who shall not decide to be-
come citizens of the United States, and the sale of the common lands and the
lands of those who decide to go south, to the Missouri River Railroad Company.
A delegation of the tribe has gone to the Indian country to select a reserva-
tion there, and upon their return, and the approval of their selection by the de-
partment, the various provisions of the treaty can be put in operation.

The Wyandotts, also under charge of this agency, are in a very unsatisfac-
tory condition.

By the operation of a treaty made some ten years ago they were made citi-
zens by certain provisions thereof, which might be suspended, however, at the
discretion of this office, as to such as should desire such suspension. Patents
were issued to others for lands divided to them in severalty.

52 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

Those who declined to hecome citizens still decline to do so, and have no
been compelled to assume those duties ; and many of them, under a recognized
chief and council, have remained in the south among the Senecas until driven
">ut by the war, since which they have returned thither. Meantime the citizen
party has had an organization and claimed recognition. The State tax laws
have, borne heavily upon the people, and many tracts of land belonging to or-
phans and incompetents have been sold and deeded away from them at the tax
sales. Many, even of those who became citizens, have begged to be relieved
from such responsibilities, and a large number of both classes desire to make
some arrangement by which they can sell their lands in Kansas and remove to
lands to be given to them by the Senecas in the Indian country. It is doubtful
whether there is properly any Wyandott tribe with whom to treat, and whether
legislation by Congress will not be needed to reach the case, even if the decision
of the Supreme Court upon the question of taxation should remove all embar-
rassment from that source.

The Sacs and Foxes of the Mississippi hold a diminished reserve in the
central part of Kansas geographically, but, for the most part, beyond the settle-
ments. They numbered by the census of last spring 818, but by a recent enu-
meration 766. Under the same agent, but upon a different, reservation, is a
small band of Chippewas and Munsees, 80 in all.

The Sacs and Foxes are all " blanket " Indians, none of them wearing gar-
ments like whites. Some few of them, including their principal chiefs, would
don the civilized apparel, but would thereby lose their influence with their peo-
ple. These chiefs have shown a commendable desire to second the efforts of
their agent for the improvement of the tribe, although they have met with much
opposition from those who are determined to oppose all progress towards civili-
zation. The celebrated chief, old " Keokuk," left among them, at his death, an
injunction not to assume the ways of the white man. His son, the present head
chief, Keokuk also by name, is wiser in his generation, and is anxious that his
tribe should improve. By the aid of these chiefs, and an appropriation from the
civilization fund, a school has been put in operation among them, and Keokuk's
son, Charles, is one of the most advanced of the scholars., In this school, also,
an opportunity has been offered to try the benefits of the new system heretofore
alluded to.

Some of the Sacs and Foxes have applied themselves to agriculture, and their
statistics show a product of 11,000 bushels of corn, and 100 tons of hay. The
principal property of the tribe consists in horses, of which they own nearly
2,000, valued at about $70,000.

Numerous complaints by the wilder bands of this tribe against their agent
have been made during the year. The agent expressed his desire to have a full in-
vestigation of his conduct, insisting that the .charges against him would be found
to have originated with parties who are resolved that the tribe shall not be civ-
ilized, but left in a condition in which they can be easily plundered. This in-
vestigation has just been made, and the report upon the subject, completely vin-
dicating the agent, is placed among the accompanying documents.

A portion of this band, unwilling to endure the restraints imposed upon them
upon the reservation, have gone to Iowa, where a portion of the annuities of the
tribe, under directions issued by your predecessor, have been expended for their
use and benefit. While, as a general rule, it is deemed very unwise to provide
for Indians at any point except their proper reservations, the late secretary
thought this case an exception, inasmuch as the legislature of Iowa had in effect
invited the Indians to occupy lands in that State. A special agent is now in
charge of these people, numbering some 230.

The small band of Chippewas and Munsees have enjoyed a year of prosperity,
and have raised sufficient for their subsistence upon their allotments. Their

EEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 53

school lias been kept up to advantage, Laving an average of twenty-six scholars"
The property of individuals is estimated at $9,664.

The Kansas or Kaw tribe, numbering 670, is located upon a reserve still fur-
ther west than the Sacs and Foxes, and they are also wild Indians, doing
scarcely anything in the way of agriculture. They were very successful in
their hunt late last fall, and returned with the skins and meat of about 3,000
buffalo, and sold $21,000 worth of furs. They also raise many horses for sale,
having disposed of $15,000 worth in the course of the year. The agent repre-
sents them as improving in their disposition to agriculture, and states their crops
at 5,000 bushels of 'corn.

They have had a manual labor school under the cbarg-e of the Friend's Mis-
sion, but its success has been very small, and it is now closed.

The agent reported, some time previous to its close, that the scholars were
not well enough clothed and fed, and that the system adopted by the teachers
was not such as to attract the children.

The Santa Fe route crosses the reservation, and the facilities with which the
Indians obtain liquor is very demoralizing to them. Doubtless the condition of
the tribe could be much improved by removing them to a more southern loca-
tion.

We have no reports from either of the agents having charge of the Miamies,
Peorias, Weas, and Piankeshaws, and of the Ottewas. As to the people of the
former tribes, in charge of Agent Colton, there are reasons to believe that it is
with them as with most of the others in Kansas, and that a large number of
them would be glad of an opportunity to make a treaty and sell their lands,
with a view of going South ; indeed, some of them have already been making
some preliminary negotiations with the tribes of the Neosho agency. Many,
however, are educated and very intelligent people, and would gladly avail them-
selves of the opportunity to sever their connexion with the tribe and become
citizens. Arrangements are in progress to renew for the Miamies the privileges
and benefits of a school at a convenient location, while a. number of their chil-
dren enjoy the benefits of the St. Mary's Mission school, their parents them-
selves paying one-half of the necessary charges.

These Indians have suffered greatly from the troublesome tax question which
vexes and harasses so many of the Kansas tribes.

The Ottawas are a small tribe, holding lands in severalty, living in all respects
like whites, and cultivating their farms with success. They will, by the terms
of their treaty, become citizens of the United States July 25, 1867, and will
then, of course, have no use for an agent. Indeed, but for managing to some
extent the sales of their lands, and attending to the interests of the " Ottawa
University," the present agent would find little occasion for his services. The
institution referred to is an enterprise in which the Indians take great interest,
and have endowed it with a liberal share of their most valuable lands.

Parties in the east, as well as others in Kansas, have aided it materially, and
a large building is well on its way to completion, the design being to fully es-
tablish an institution of learning which shall provide not only for Ottawa chil-
dren, but for the children of all other Indian tribes who may desire to partici-
pate in its benefits, by endowing it with a portion of their educational funds.
The plan appears to be an excellent one, and its success would be a real benefit
to the Indian tribes generally.

Treaties were made in the fall of 1865, as heretofore stated in this report,
with the Kiowas and Comanches, and with the Arapahoes, Cheyennes, and
Apaches.

The latter tribe had before been associated with the Kiowas and Comanches
and the agency for the three was located in southwestern Kansas, that being,
however, but a rendezvous for such of the tribes as were disposed to friendship
with the whites.

54 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

A number of their bands have never taken part in treaties, but have ranged
at will over a Vide district of country, from Kansas to the Rip Grande, and from
the frontier settlements of Texas far into New Mexico, frequently plundering
emigrant and merchandise trains, or making raids upon and carrying away into
captivity the women and children of the border people. It is true, beyond
doubt, that in the case of some of these raids, they have been induced, in the
minds of apart of the Indians engaging in them, by a dim notion that they were
really performing a friendly act for the government by attacks upon its enemies.
Their agent has labored all the time, and during the last year and a half par-
ticularly, to remove this idea from the minds of the tribe, and nearly a dozen
prisoners were brought in and delivered to the treaty commissioners of 1865,
the chiefs promising that such acts should cease. Complaints of raids into
Texas, however, continue to be made, but it was thought, until recently, that
they were the acts of that part of the tribes not treated with. This impression
is destroyed by the evidence recently presented, implicating the treaty Indians,
in the bold avowal of the most inhuman acts of outrage by chiefs who had the
temerity to come to a military post nearest to their agency and demand a ran-
som for some of the prisoners. Mr. Taylor, who had charge of the Arapahoes,
&c., in that immediate neighborhood, called upon the chiefs to return the prison-
ers without ransom, threatening them with punishment by the government, but
they refused to comply, saying that they would deliver them to their own agent,
Colonel Leavenworth, who was temporarily absent from the State; and it
appears that an officer of the United States army, commanding one of the posts,
induced by the desire to rescue one of the captives from horrors worse than
death, has promised to pay a large sum as a ransom. This is the last informa-
tion received from that quarter. Measures have been taken to obtain the par-
ticulars of these occurences from the agent of the tribe involved, and prompt
action should follow, under the direction of the department.

/The Cheyennes, Arapahoes and Apaches, also treated with in 1865, have for
the most part well observed their treaty stipulations ; indeed, no complaints
whatever have been made of the Arapahoes and Apaches. A small, but reso-
lute and active band of the Cheyennes, known as the " Dog Soldiers," who did
not unite with their people in the treaty, have occasioned much trouble, and
doubtless have committed outrages on the frontier, they refusing to give up the
country watered by the Smoky Hill Fork. They were conferred with by
Major Wynkoop, special agent of the department, last February, and their
leading chiefs agreed to the stipulations of the treaty of 1865, which does in
effect give up the Smoky Hill route, but allowed the Indians to hunt through
that country, keeping away from the travelled roads westward. The Indians
appear to have construed their signature to the paper forwarded by Major
Wynkoop as only a general consent of friendship with the whites, but not as
surrendering the Smoky Hill country. Late in the summer Major Wynkoop
was sent out again and met some of these chiefs, wjien, after full conference,
those present agreed to yield the contested point. The representation on the
part of the " Dog Soldiers" was, however, very limited. The officer referred
to has been appointed agent for those tribes, to succeed Mr. Taylor, but has
not yet reported his arrival at his post. The latter has recently reported a meet-
ing with the " Dog Soldier" chiefs, and their promise to leave entirely the dis-
puted country and go south, but he fears that their apparent acquiescence is only
on account of their desire to obtain their share of the annuities now en route.

The whole matter is a fair illustration of one of the difficulties incident to
the Indian service. It is believed that the majority of the Kiowas and Co-
manches are desirous to observe faithfully their treaty stipulations, and the same
may be said as to the Indians of the other agency ; yet in the one ease some of
heir people have committed fiendish outrages upon innocent families in Texas,
and in the other an unruly band is alleged to have been perpetrating crimes in

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 55

western Kansas. The authority of the head chiefs, who signed the treaties, is
lightly regarded by those who commit these crimes, and it is not certain that
they have the power to arrest and deliver over the criminals to the government.
In such case it becomes difficult to decide as to how far the department is jus-
tified in refusing to deliver the promised annuities. Such refusal is likely to
exasperate that portion of the tribes now friendly, and to induce an Indian war,
with its terrible barbarities and enormous expense to the government.

SOUTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY.

Affairs in this superintendency, composing the tribes and nations belonging to
the Indian country south of Kansas, and the Osages, residing upon a large
reservation within the limits of that State, have been in such peculiar condition
fir nearly the whole period since my last annual report that we are without
official data for such statement of the present condition of the Indians as has
been usual ; and as no annual report is received from the late superintendent,
Mr. Sells, who resigned to take effect October 1 instant, and whose successor
has been appointed, but who has not yet been qualified and taken possession of
the office, we are further embarrassed in the preparation of our summary at the
present time.

The Clierokees, Creeks, Semineles, Choctaws and Chickasaws, were all
represented in this city from January till late in the summer, and the treaty
arrangements finally consummated with them have been fully mentioned here-
tofore in this report. The people of the various tribes, meanwhile, remained
in their own country, to a considerable Extent dependent upon the government
for the means to keep them from actual suffering ; the condition of themselves
and their country, as described in the annual report of last year, being such as
to preclude the possibility of their doing anything of consequence last year for
their own support. It was necessary, therefore, to supply them with the means
of subsistence until they could raise a crop. As to the success which has
attended their efforts in that direction, this office is not advised ; but entertains
the hope that, with the return of peace, and the settlement of the disturbances
among them arising from the late war, they will speedily recover their former
prosperous condition. Indeed, we may fairly go further than this, and predict
that, under the provisions of their late treaties, they will now make more rapid
progress than before in all the elements of Christian civilization.

The Witchitas and affiliated tribes, who formerly resided in the country
leased from the Choctaws, were taken back to their former homes, and, as this
office was advised in March, were preparing to plant their crops, but were hin-
dered in their work for want of necessary implements. The agent also reported
great destitution among 'them. Whiskey had been brought among them by
Indians from Kansas, and had made mucli trouble. It is a common practice
for unruly spirits, impatient of the restraints of civilization, or other parties,
disheartened by the manner in which they have been plundered by unscrupulous
whites in Kansas, to leave their reservations and proceed to the Indian country,
joining the bands herein referred to ; so that it is a difficult agency to manage
satisfactorily. Among these people are also fragments of tribes from Texas, as
the Tonkawas, Lipans, &c., and the Caddoes and Comanches are represented
among them. A new agent has recently been appointed for these Indians, and
we may expect to obtain shortly some official information as to their condition.*

With the Osages, and other Indians of the Xeosho agency, we have kept up
more frequent communication ; and reference under the head of " Indian trea-
ties " has been already made to the arrangements consummated with that tribe.

The Quapaws, Senecas, and Confederated Senecas and Shawnees, have been
engaged quietly upon their old reservations, and nothing of special interest has

* For several reports from this superintendency see Appendix.

56 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

occurred among them, aside from certain treaty arrangements between themselves,
to which they asked! the sanction of the government, but to which it was not
deemed advisable to give formal consent at present, for the reason that it was
intended to recommend formal treaties with these people, by which some of the
smaller Kansas tribes might obtain a home with them, as was understood t'o be
the desire of all the parties interested. The Senecas confederated with the
Shawnees propose to sell to their allies, the Shawnees, their interest in the
reservation, and to become confederated with the other band of Senecas ; and
then to sell or give to the Wyandotts of Kansas a home with them. It is
represented that the Senecas are willing to give this land to the Wyaudotts
under an old understanding, placed in the form of a written treaty, November
22, 1859, wherein the Senecas acknowledge their obligations to the Wyandotts
for giving them a home in Ohio, and desire to reciprocate the favor. A copy of
this alleged agreement, which, however, does not appear to have ever been
recognized by government or taken effect, is placed among the accompanying
documents. The position of the Wyandotts in reference to this subject is re-
ferred to under the head of the Central Superintendency, in remarks upon the
Delaware agency, to which they belong.

The condition of the large number of blacks, formerly slaves of the Indians
of this superintendency, having been represented as one of great hardship,
resulting from the fact that a portion of the people refused to recognize the
result of the war in making them free, it was deemed advisable to take mea-
sures in their behalf; and Major General Sanborn was, at the request of the
department, detailed on duty as a special commissioner, to act under instructions
from this office, but, so far as practicable, under the regulations of the Freed-
men's Bureau, and obtaining necessary supplies from that quarter. On proceed-
ing to his field of duty, he found abundant occasion for his services, and ac-
complished much good. His efforts, and the assurance gradually impressed
upon the Indians that these men were no longer slaves, together with the good
behavior and industry of the blacks themselves, were so successful that under
date of April 13, 1866, he was able to ask to be relieved from duty, reporting
that the rights of the freedmeu were fully acknowledged ; that not more than one
hundred and fifty persons had required the issue of rations during the previous
mouth ; that the demand for their labor was abundant, and recommended the
discontinuance of the services of a commissioner. This was accordingly done,
and the rights of these people have since been permanently secured by the
treaties heretofore referred to.

GREEN BAY AGENCY.

The annual report of Agent Martin, who succeeded Mr. Davis, in May of
this year, has been received, and is full upon all points necessary for an under-
standing of the condition of the Indians under his charge, comprising the Onei-
das, numbering 1,104, the Menomonees, 1,376, and the Stockbridges, 152, resid-
ing upon three reservations in the northern part of Wisconsin.

The report gives a somewhat favorable view of the condition of the Oneidas,
who seem for the most part to be an energetic and industrious people, though their
advance in civilization is much hindered by their vicinity to large towns, where the
means of indulgence in intoxication and other vices are abundant, in spite of strin-
gent laws intended for their protection. They are doing much and permanent dam-
age to their reserve by the improvident manner in which they are cutting off its
timber. The agent does not favor individual allotments of land to the tribe, for
reasons presented in his report. The schools are reasonably successful and
fairly attended. One of them is taught by an educated Oneida, who was placed
in charge last spring, after a full consideration of the circumstances calling for
a change. The present agent thinks that the missionary board should still re-

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 57

tain control of the school. Further consideration will be given to this subject
as soon as practicable.

The Oneidas have raised this year about 33,000 bushels of grain, 13,500
bushels of potatoes, arid 584 tons of hay, and own over 1,500 head of horses and
other stock. They find a ready market at Green Bay and other towns for their
surplus produce.

The Menomonees are unfortunate in the character of the soil of their reserva-
tion, and their efforts in cultivating crops meet with a poor return. Were they
more favorably situated, their improvement would be rapid, since they are quite
industrious and disposed to the pursuits of agriculture. They are, among other
Indians, specially notable for their desire to have their children educated, and
the schools among* them are well attended. The teachers pay commendable
attention to the education of the girls in the arts of housewifery, and the iuflu- '
ence of this course upon the manners of the people is sensibly felt. Observation
of the devotion of these teachers to their work, in which they have long been
engaged, has led this office to include them among those to whom the experi-
ment of introducing the Kindergarten system is intrusted, and good results are
hoped for.

The question for some time pending as to the right of the State of Wisconsin to
certain sections of land within the Menomonee reservation, has been decided during
the year adversely to the State. These Indians raised but a small crop this year,
but made about 75,000 pounds of maple sugar, for which a ready sale was found.

The Stockbridges, who purchased some years since two townships of the
Menomonee reservation for a permanent home, are less favorably situated than
either of the other tribes of the agency. Their soil is poor, and the cold, wet
seasons, and frosts occurring nearly every month of the year, make it difficult for
them to procure a living by farming. Indeed, so discouraged are most of the
people, that but little effort is now made in that direction ; many of the men
hiring as laborers upon farms in the northern part of Wisconsin. It has been
necessary to purchase provisions for their relief on several occasions. The tribe
now numbers but 152. Feeling themselves but sojourners in Wisconsin, and
hoping and desiring that another home may be provided for them elsewhere,
they make but little effort to overcome the difficulties in their way. It is ear-
nestly recommended that arrangements be made with this remnant of a tribe long
friendly with the whites, and willing to labor for' their own support, whereby
they can be removed to a more genial climate and fertile soil. The school of
this tribe has had an average of twelve in attendance, and the children exhibit
willingness and capacity to learn. The teacher is also their missionary, and a
church of some twenty members has grown up under his care.

Altogether the Stockbridges show themselves worthy of the guardian care
of the government by their intelligence, good order, and sobriety. >

They raised this year about 1,900 bushels of grain, 1,550 bushels of potatoes,
and 40 tons millet, cultivating in all 145 acres.

'CHIPPEWAS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.

This important agency has under its charge Chippewa Indians of three classes,
under treaty stipulations, but all belonging to one race, speaking the same lan-
guage, differing very little in their customs and habits, except so far as the
greater acquaintance with the whites may have taught a portion of them the
vices of civilization. The population of the bands known by treaty as the
"Chippewas of Mississippi'' proper, is 2,166; that of the Pillager and Lake
Winnebagoshish bands is returned at 1,899, and that of the Red Lake and Pem-
bina bands, far to the north, is 2,114, making a total of 6,179, being an increase
of more than 150 since' the previous census. It is not safe to assume in all cases
an actual increase or decrease in the population of our Indian tribes from the

58 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

census returns, as they migrate hither and thither; but when a tribe is paid
annuities which are sufficient for substantial relief, as is the case with these In-
dians, they may be generally expected to be present at the annual census to be
enrolled for payment. In the case of the Chippewas, also, the last year has been
a productive on$ for their farming, hunting and fishing, and sugar-making opera-
tions, and thus they have been comfortable.

With the exception of two occasions one at Crow Wing, the other at Leech
lake, where disturbances, which for a time threatened to be serious, were caused
by too much whiskey, furnished as usual by white people the Indians have been
peaceable and friendly. The most earnest efforts have been made by Agent
Clark to stop the whiskey traffic, and he has succeeded by great efforts, and at
great expense for the journey and subsistence of witnesses, in getting a number
of parties indicted, who were to be tried in the United States court at St. Paul
during the present month.

The great abundance of rabbits last winter proved to be of much use in fur-
nishing food, and one firm of traders purchased 14,000 skins of that animal. In
the spring the Indians made large quantities of maple sugar, the agent mention-
ing one family living near Leech lake, which made 1,800 pounds of sugar.
Cranberries are plenty, also, and for these, as well as for their sugar, they find
ready sale at fair prices. To a considerable extent, also, many of these Indi-
ans, particularly about Leech lake, cultivate the soil, and their crops have been
good. The Pembina Indians are too far distant from the agency to have received
much attention from the agent, and we have but little information concerning
them. t

The site for the new agency at Leech lake was selected in ihe spring, and
measures, long delayed, were at once taken to proceed to the erection of the
necessary buildings for the agency, and the accommodation of the various em-
ployes, and of the schools, shops, &c., provided for in the treaty with these In-
dians, and this work has been proceeding with energy, so that some portion of
the buildings will be ready for occupation this winter. Contracts were made
and forwarded for approval, providing for breaking and preparing lands for cul-
tivation as per treaty, but the price seemed high, and, upon later examination,
it has been deemed advisable to delay this work to give an opportunity for the
Indians to make selections for themselves, which they will probably do from
lands not requiring so much labor in preparing them for crops.

These Indians are well disposed and quite intelligent, and great hopes atfit
entertained of their progress in civilization when the arrangements contemplate*?,
by their treaties are consummated. With liberal annuities, a country teeming
with game and fish, abundance of timber, plenty of good farming lands, provi-
sions for schools, and a people willing, for the most part, to make good use of
these advantages, there is no reason why these Chippewas should not advance
rapidly in obtaining means of comfortable subsistence, and in acquiring that knowl-
edge which will fit them for civilized life. Whiskey is still with them, as with
others, the bane of their existence, but the persistent efforts made to prevent its
use among them meet with some degree of success.

The amount of individual property owned by these Indians is estimated at
$85,000. They have cultivated 650 acres of land, with an aggregate product
of 7,200 bushels of corn, and 7,000 bushels of vegetables ; besides which they
have gathered 7,000 bushels of wild rice, made 200,000 pounds of maple sugar,
and sold furs to the amount of $55,000.

CHIPPEWAS OF LAKE SUPERIOR.

Agent Webb's annual report has not arrived, a fact probably to be accounted
for by his necessary absence on the duty of conveying supplies of goods to, and
selecting a reservation for, the Bois Forte band of Chippewas, on the north side

EEPORT OP THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 59

of Lake Superior, in Minnesota. Reference has been made in that portion of
this report devoted to Indian treaties, to the arrangement made with this band,
as being a favorable one for them as well as for the government.

At the time of the negotiations held with their delegated chiefs in this city,
last spring, they were accompanied by several chiefs of the Chippewas residing
in Wisconsin, who thought they had an interest in the lands to be disposed of to
the government. Unfortunately the small-pox broke out among this last named
delegation, and three of them, A-moose, Squa-ba-vis, and St. Germain, died of
the disease. Partly to assuage their grief, in a manner usual among them, and
partly to satisfy their fancied claim to the land, provision was made in the treaty
to give the Lac Flambeau band the sum of $5,000, and to continue, for the ben-
efit of the Indians on the south side of the lake, certain stipulations involving a
small sum annually.

The Indians at Bad river have expressed a desire to have a Catholic church
built upon their reservation, and as those in charge of the interests of that de-
nomination proposed to erect it at their own expense, permission has been
granted. The Protestant Mission school, long established at that place, may have
been very successful, but thus far this office has failed to obtain the information
necessary to decide the question. The reports show a fair average attendance
of scholars, -but nothing more is known of these schools. Scattered as these
bands of Chippewas are, it is difficult to do anything effectual for them in the
way of education. Were they concentrated upon a single reservation, we might
hope to do them some good.

WINNEBAGOES AND POTTAW ATOMIES OF WISCONSIN.

This agency is an anomaly in the Indian service, having been specially author-
ized by Congress for the care of members of the tribes indicated, who in part
remained behind when their brethren, after selling their lauds to the government,
migrated to the westward ; and partly of bands, varying in numbers from year
to year, who return to their old haunts and live a precarious life by begging,
picking berries, trapping, &c., rather than settle down upon reservations and
betake themselves to the pursuits of agriculture. Occasionally they give the
border settlers some trouble, especially when supplied with whiskey, but
usually they are very peaceable. No complaints of bad conduct by the Winneba-
goe_s have come to this office during the past year, but we have several times heard
ajfrottawatomies making themselves too free about the border settlements, by
turning their ponies loose, &c. On referring these complaints to the agent for
inquiry J however, his report has been accompanied by statements of settlers,
giving their opinion that the Indians do no harm. It is certainly desirable that
these people should join their tribes upon. their respective reservations; but this
could not be effected without the use of force, and it seems hardly necessary to
undertake such a movement so long as they are as peaceable as at present.

Agent Lamoreux reports the number of the Winnebagoes at about 700, and
of the Pottawatomies at 650, these being estimates, as no actual census has been
taken of these roving bands and families scattered about the central and western
part of the State. Here and there they have raised a little corn in patches,
cultivated as usual by the squaws, but for the most part they depend upon
game, fish, and the sale of berries, furs, &c., obtaining also some comforts towards
winter from the distribution of goods to them by the government. The Winne-
bagoes are mostly in the counties of Juneau, Adams, and Wood; the Pottawat-
omies about Lake Horicon, in Dodge county, and in Portage and Waupacca
counties.

The agent recommends that a reservation be set apart for the Winnebagoes
in Wisconsin, but this office is not prepared to recommend such action.

These Indians have no schools and no desire for any. To all intents and pur-
poses they are as much heathen as the tribes of the interior of Africa.

60 REPORT OF THE -COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.

The appropriation for their relief was reduced at the last session of Congress
from $10,000 to $5,000. So small an amount will scarcely suffice for the pur-
pose intended, that of furnishing these Indians with enough of the necessary
supplies to sustain life during the long inclement season of that northern climate,
so as to preclude the necessity of stealing from the settlers. If any appropria-
tion of the kind is made it should be large enough to be of substantial use.

MACKINAC AGENCY.

The annual report of this agency, comprising the Indians of Michigan, is at
hand but not complete, owing to the failure of statistics from oiie of its subdi-
visions.

The tribes of the agency, as classed under various treaties, are as follows :
Ottawas and Chippewas, 502 ; Chippewas of Saginaw, Swan creek, and Black
river, 1,562 ; Chippewas, Ottawas and Pottawatomies, 232 ; Chippewas of Lake
Superior, 1,058 ; Pottawatomies of Huron, 46; total 7,925; showing an increase
of 76 since the last report.

The statistics deficient are those of the Chippewas of Saginaw, &c. Leaving
these bands out of the question, the number whose statistics are reported is 6,363 ;
and the number of bushels of grain raised is stated at 44,000 ; bushels of pota-
toes, 91,000; tons of hay, 2,500; pounds maple sugar, 233,000; and value of
furs sold, 840,000.

Among the educational statistics the Saginaw bands are included, and there
are 22 schools with 934 scholars, and seventeen missionaries of different denomi-
nations labor among them.

Nothing of special interest has occurred in regard to these Indians during the
.past year, except the ratification of the treaty made in 1864 with the Chippe-
was of Saginaw, &c., with amendments to which they have agreed. Good
effects are anticipated from the operation of this treaty, in the concentration of
the people upon one reservation, and the establishment of a good school thereon.

The same policy should be pursued in regard to the other bands of this agency.
Scattered as they are upon numerous reservations widely separated, it is impos-
sible for an agent to give them proper supervision, and the Indians suffer great
annoyance from being interspersed among the white settlements. Many of the
people have expressed the desire to make the necessary treaty arrangements.

Earnest efforts, which meet with considerable success, are being made by the
agent to prevent the furnishing of liquor to the Indians ; and a late decision of
the Supreme Court of the United States in a case appealed from this agency,
being in favor of the prosecution, has aided his efforts very materially.

NEW YORK AGENCY.

The people under the charge of Agent Rich, whose headquarters are at
Akron, Erie county, New York,, are the remains of the several tribes forming
the ancient and powerful confederation known as the Six Nations. They hav
now dwindled down to a population of about 4,000, residing mostly in tlue
southwest part of the State of New York, upon certain reservations long ago
set apart, but some few bands and parties being scattered about nearer the cen-
tral part of the State. For the most part the people are industrious, as well
as intelligent, in the care of their farms, and succeed in obtaining a fair living
by their labor ; as to many of them, it may be said that they are not surpassed
by the whites in the care and diligence with wLich they pursue their business,
or the success which crowns their efforts, as may be seen at the annual fairs
which have been instituted among them. These Indians exhibit a great interest
in the education of their children, and as their location is such as to give them
the benefit of the common school system of the State of New York, they are
not slow to avail themselves of the privilege, there being 23 schools among

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS. 61

them, containing 872 scholars a larger proportion of scholars to the total popu-
lation than obtains in most white communities.

The health of the people has generally been good during the past year, and
in spite of the ravages of snaall-pox among the Tonawandas, by which 44
persons died, the aggregate number of births in the agency has exceeded the
deaths. The Tonawandas are very anxious for the establishment of a manual
labor boarding school, and have asked the State of New York for aid for the
purpose, promising, upon their part, to provide fifty acres -of land and 83,000
from their funds for such a school. It is to be hoped that they may be
successful in their efforts.

The agent returns the individual wealth of the New York Indians at $3 1 0,000,
but I doubt whether the whites could buy their stock, personal property, and
improvements to-day for a much greater sum.

The New York Indians have been, from time to time, pressing upon the gov-
ernment the settlement of a claim to a large amount about 500,000 acres of
land in Kansas, which was secured to them upon the cession to the United
States of their rights to land in Wisconsin. Very few of the Indians removed
to Kansas ; and after long delay action was taken by the department, some
years ago, by which these Indian lands were thrown open to white settlement.
It is my opinion that the Indians have a valid claim against the government
arising out of this transaction; but when the case came up during the past year
it was not deemed advisable to undertake departmental action. I trust that
Congress will, by legislation, provide for an equitable settlement of this claim.

STATISTICS.

Preparing this report at an earlier day than usual, I am unable to present a.
summary, drawn from the statistical tables furnished by the superintendents and
agents, showing the aggregate amount of the products of industry, individual
wealth, schools, population, &c. ; but these tables, as rapidly as they arrive, are
being digested, and the annual tables will be carefully made up and corrected
in time for publication as usual with the accompanying documents. So far as
any judgment can be formed from the figures already at hand, the operations of
the year have been unusually successful, and the progress of the Indians, in
"many cases, towards civilization very satisfactory.

Carefully prepared tables will also show the amount of trust funds held by <
the department for the various tribes in detail, as well as the transactions in
reference to the sales and payments for Indian lauds during the year.

CONCLUSION.

Having thus presented a general summary of events connected with the Indian
service during the past year, with such recommendations as I have deemed ad-
visable for its improvement, I have only to close this my second and last annual
report with the remark, that it has been my earnest desire, since taking charge
of the bureau, so to conduct its operations that they might prove of real benefit
to the interesting people whose interests are involved, and by expressing a con-
fident hope that these efforts, in spite of the many obstacles to complete success,
will be found to have availed to some extent for their good. *
Respectfully submitted :

D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner.
Hon. 0. H. BROWNING,

Secretary of the Interior.

62 LIST OF PAPERS.

LIST OF PAPERS ACCOMPANYING THE REPORT OP COMMISSIONER OF
INDIAN AFFAIRS FOR 1866.

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 1. Letter relative to Tulalip school and memorial of legislature.

No. 2. Agent Webster's report of Makah agency.

No. 3. Report of Sub-Agent Knox arrest of criminals.

No. 4. Reports of Agent Webster.

No. 5. Reports relative to Neah Bay school.

No. 6. Agent Paige's report relative to Spokane Indians.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE.

No-. 7. Superintendent Huntington's annual report.

No. 8. Agent Harvey's report, Grande Ronde agency.

No. 9. Report of teacher.

No. 10. Agent Smith's report, Warm Springs agency.

No. 11. Teacher's report.

No. 12. Sub- Agent Collins's report, Alsea agency.

No. 13. Agent Simpson's report, Siletz agency.

No. 14. Agent Barnhart's report, Urnatilla agency.

No. 14. Teacher's report, Umatilla agency.

No. 15. Agent Applegate's report, Klamath and Modoc agency. ,

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 16. Superintendent Maltby's annual report.

No. 17. Agent Stockton's report, Hoopa Valley reservation.

No. 18. Agent Fairchild's report, Round Valley reservation.

No. 19. Agent Hoffman's report, Tule River reservation.

No. 20. Special Agent Kingsbury's report, Smith River reservation.

No. 21. Superintendent Maltby's report relative to execution of Indian

No. 22. Special Agent Stanley's report, Mission Indians.

No. 23. Superintendent's estimates for schools.

No. 24. Office report on California reservations.

ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 25. Superintendent Leihy's report, January 16, 1866.

No. 26. Letter of H. Ehrenberg on proposed reservations.

No. 27. Special Agent Feudge's report, July, 1866.

No. 28. Dr. C. H. Lord's report, Papagos, &c.

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 29. Superintendent Parker's annual report.

No. 30. Agent Campbell's annual report.

No. 31. Report of farmer, Truckee River reservation.

No. 32. Superintendent Parker's letter relative to trespassers.

No. 33. Superintendent Parker's estimates for manual labor school.

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 34. Superintendent Head's annual report.

No. 35. Agent Mann's report, Fort Bridger agency.

No. 36. Superintendent Head's letter, visit of Washakee.

No. 37. Superintendent Head's letter relative to Indian hostilities.

No. 38. Superintendent Head's letter relative to same subject.

No. 39. Superintendent Head's letter relative to increase of salaries.

LIST OF PAPERS. 63

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 40. Report of J. K. Graves, special agent.

No. 41. Abstract of papers accompanying same.

No. 42. Office report on estimates for expenses of Bosque Redondo reservation.

No. 43. Annual report of Superintendent Norton, (extracts.)

No. 44. Special Agent Ward's report, Pueblos, (extracts.)

No. 45. Agent Dodd's report, Navajoes, (extracts.)

No. 46. Report of surgeon United States army hospital, Bosque Redondo.

No. 47. Superintendent Norton's report relative to Comanches, July, 1866.

No. 48. Superintendent Norton's report relative to hostilities by Utes.

No. 49. Memorial of legislature, relative to depredations.

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 50. Annual report of Governor Cummings, superintendent ex qfficio.

No. 51. Letter of Governor Cummings, February 14, 1866.

No. 52. Report of Agent Oakes, February 12, 1866.

No. 53. Letter of Governor Cummings, June 9, 1866.

No. 54. Instructions to Governor Cummings, July 22, 1866.

No. 55. Correspondence relative to recent hostilities.

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 56. Report of Major General Corse, January 11, 1866, disposition of Indians for peace.

No. 57. Report of Governor Edmunds, February 15, 1866 suffering of Indians.

No. 58. Report of Special Agent Day, March, 1866 suffering of Indians.

No. 59. Report of Governor Edmunds, March 7, 1866 suffering of Indians.

No. 60. Report of Agent Hanson traffic in liquor.

No. 61. Office reply to Agent Hanson.

No. 62. Report of Governor Edmunds, relative to settlement of Sioux and Crow Creek.

No. 63. Letter of General Curtis, May 30, relative to conduct of Indians.

No. 64. Report of northwestern treaty commissioners to Upper Missouri Indians.

No. 65. Annual report of Governor Edmunds, superintendent ex officio.

No. 66. Resolution of House of Representatives, relative to Dakota agencies.

No. 67. Report of Special Agent Johnston-, relative to Yancton agency.

No. 68. Report of Special Agent Graves, relative to Yancton agency.

No. 69. Request of Agent Conger for medals for Yancton chiefs.

No. 70. Annual report of Agent Potter, Poncas.

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 71. Report of Governor Lyon, March 1, 1866.

No. 72. Report of Special Agent Hough.

No. 73. Annual report of Governor Ballard, superintendent ex officio.

No. 74. Letters relative to proposed reservation for Spokanes.

No. 75. Agent O'Neill's annual report, Nez Perces.

No. 76. Report of farmer at Nez Percys agency.

^MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 77. Report of Acting Governor Meagher, December 14, 1865.

No. 77. Correspondence showing hostilities of Blackfeet.

No. 78. Letter of Acting Governor Meagher, relative to Bannocks and Shoshones.

No. 79. Letter of Agent Chapman, relative to desire of Spokanes to remove to Flathead agency.

No. 80. Letter of Agent Chapman, relative to Hudson Bay Company trade.

No. 80a. Office reply to Agent Chapman.

No. 81. Report of H. D.Upham, in charge of Blacktoot agency.

No. 82. Report of Agent Wright, August 30, 1866, Blacktoot agency.

64 LIST OF PAPERS.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 83. Letter of Colonel Maynadier, January 25, 1866, commanding at Fort Laramie.
No. 84. Major General Pope to Secretary of Interior, February 12, 1866.
No. 85. Major General Dodge to General Pope, March 12, 1866.
No. 86. Colonel Maynadier's letter burial of a daughter of a Sioux chief.
No. 87. Report of treaty commission at Fort Laramie*
No. 88. Agen-t Patrick's report, upper Platte agency.
No. 89. Superintendent Taylor's annual report.
No. 90. Agent Mathewson's report, Winnebago agency.
No. 91. Agent Furnas's report, Omaha agency.
No. 92. Report of teacher, Omaha agency.

No. 93. Report of Superintendent Taylor allotments at Omaha agency.
No. 94. Agent Smith's report, Otoe and Missouri agency.
No. 95. Agent Norris's report, Great Nemaha agency.
No. 96. Report of Agent Wheeler attack by Sioux upon Pawnees.
No. 97. Letter of Superintendent Taylor relative to reported Indian hostilities.
No. 98. Letter of General Cloud to the superintendent, charging hostilities upou Pawnees and
other tribes, and reply.

Papers relating to Santee- Sioux.

No. 99. Recommendations of Superintendent Taylor, February 20, 1866.
No. 100. Withdrawal from sale of lands at Niobrara.
No. 101 . Letter of Rev. H. W. Reed relative to removal of Indians.

No. 102. Office report, April 20, 1866, relative to disposition, Santee-Sioux matters, and funds.
No. 102a. Draught of proposed bill.

No. 103. Letter of Hon. W. A. Burleigh to President protesting against removal of Indians.
No. 104. Office report on same.

No. 105. Report of Rev. H. W. Reed relative to Indians at Crow creek.
No. 1 06. Office report relative to Sioux, in answer to resolution of House of Representatives.
No. 107. Instruction to Special Agent Kilpatrick to take charge of Sioux released at Daven-
port.

No. 108. Report of Special Agent Kilpatrick.

No. 109. Letter of Commissioner of Land Office relative to Niobrara reservation.
No. 1JO. Report of Special Agent Adams relative to friendly Sioux of Minnesota.
No. 111. Report of same, June 25, 1866.

No. Ilia. Letter of' Right Rev. A. B. Whipple claims of friendly Sioux.
No. 112. Letter of northwestern treaty commissioner relative to J. R. Brown.
No. 113. Annual report of Agent Stone, Santee-Sioux agency.
No. 114. Report of teacher, Santee-Sioux agency.
No. 115. Report of farmer, Santee-Sioux agency".
No. 1 16. Report of Superintendent Taylor preparations for winter, Santee-Sioux agency.

CENTRAL SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 117. Superintendent Murphy's annual report.

No. 118. Agent Pratt's annual report, Delaware agency.

No. 119. Delaware code of laws.

No. 120. Report of teacher, Delaware agency.

No. 121. Correspondence relative to Wyandott affairs.

No. 122. Report of special agent, relative to Wyandotts.

No. 123. Agent Adams's annual report.

No. 124. Report of special agent efforts to make treaty with Kickapoos.

No. 125. Agent 'Abbot's annual report, Shawnee a-eacy.

No. 126. Office report, Ottowa Univorsity.

No. 127. Communication from Ottawa Indians.

LIST OF PAPERS. 65

No. 128. Agent Palmer's annual report, Pottawatomies.

No. 129. Report of teacher, Pottawatomies.

No. 130. Letter of H. C, Henderson, Pottawatomies in Iowa.

No. 131. Agent Martin's annual report, Sac and Fox agency.

No. 132. Report of Special Agent Irwin investigation at Sae and Fox agency.

No. 133. Letter of Agent Martin, Sacs and Foxes in Iowa.

No. 134. Queries by Chippewas of Kansas as to their status.

No. 135. Office reply to above.

No. 136. Report of Superintendent Murphy- 1 annuity payment to Sacs and Foxes.

No. 137. Agent Farnsworth's annual report, Kansas agency.

No. 137 a b. Reports of school at Kansas agency.

No. 138. Report of agent relative to Kansas agency school.

No. 139. Report of Captain Gordon, U. S. A., March 5, 1866 escort with goods for Arapa

hoes, &c.

No. 140. Report of Major Wynkoop, April 8, 1866 conference with Arapahoes, &c. V^*"^"^
No. 141. Instructions to Major Wynkoop, July 25, 1866. *^
No. 142. Report of Major Wynkoop, August 11, 1866. *
No. 143. Report of Agent Taylor, Arapahoes, Cheyennes, &c. V
No. 144. Superintendent Murphy sends letter of Agent Taylor of October 6, 1866.

SOUTHERN SUPERINTEXDENCY.

No. 145. Letter from Superintendent Sells, September 30, 1866, no annual report.

No. 146. Office report relative to disposition of Indians for territorial government.

No. 147. First report of Major General Sanborn, in charge of freedmen.

No. 148. Report of Major General Sanborn.

No. 149. Final report of Major General Sanborn asks to be relieved.

GEEEN BAY AGENCY.

No. 150. Agent Martin's annual report.

No. 150 a. Report of teachers of Oneida mission school, Episcopal.

No. 150 b. Report of teachers of Oneida mission school, Methodist.

No. 150 c. Report of teacher, Stockbridges.

No. 150 d e f. Reports of teachers of Menomonee schools.

No. 150 g h i. Reports of Farmer, Miller, and Smith, Menomonee agency.

No. 151. Office letter to agent relief of Stockbridges.

No. 152. Department letter claim of Wisconsin to certain lands.

CHIPPEWAS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.

No. 153. Agent Clark's annual report.

No. 153^. Report on location of new agency,

No. 154. Agent's report relative to prosecutions for sale of liquor.

No. 155. Agent's report relative to threatened disturbance at Leech lake.

No. 156. Agent's report relative to same subject.

CHIPPEWAS OF LAKE SUPERIOR.

No. 157. Agent Webb's report relative to church at Bad river.

WINNEBAGOES AND POTTAWATOMIES OF WISCONSIN.

No. 158. Agent Lamoreux's annual report,

MACKINAC AGENCY.

No. 159, Agent Smith's annual report.

No. 160. Memorial of citizens for restoration to market of Indian lands.
5 c i

66 LIST OF PAPERS.

NEW YORK AGENCY.

No. 161. Agent Rich's annual report.

MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS

No. 162. Correspondence relative to taxation of Indian lands.

No. 163. Decision of United States Supreme Court in Michigan liquor cases.

No. 164. Office report relative to licenses.

No. 165. Report relative to Kindergarten schools.

No. 166. Enactment of July, 1666, relative to licenses.

STATISTICS.

No. 167. Indian trust land sales.

No. 168. Indian trust funds, 1, 2, 3.

No. 169. Liabilities of the United States to Indian tribes.

No. 170. Population, schools, individual property, &c.

No. 171. Farming statistics, products of industry, &c.

No. 172. Recapitulation of statistics of 1866 compared with 1865.

No. 173. Census for Indian tribes corrected for 1866.

INDEX TO APPENDIX.

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 1 Report of Rev. E. C. Chirouse, teacher of Tulalip school.

NEW MEXICO.

No. 2. Report of Agent Romero, Pueblos.

MONTANA.

No. 3. Report of Agent Chapman, Flathead agency.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 4. Annual report of D. H. Wheeler, late agent Pawnees.

No. 5. Annual report of J. B. Maxfield, teacher of Pawnee school.

SOUTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 6. Annual report of J. W. Dunn, Creek agent.

No. 7. Statistics of Creek agency.

No. 8. Annual report of Geo. A. Reynolds, Seminole agency.

No. 9. Statistics of Seminole agency.

No. 10. Annual report of H. Shanklin, Wichita agency.

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY. 67

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY.
No. I.

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Olympia, W. T., January 25, 1866.

SIR : In the absence of the superintendent I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of
your letter of November 29, relating to a letter from Father Chirouse, of the Tulalip school,
to Hon. A. A. Denny. The copy referred to did not come to hand. The envelope appeared
to have been opened before delivered, and your letter without- the enclosed copy spoken of
was received. I have written Father Chirouse to furnish this office a copy of the correspond-
ence spoken of, in order that your instructions may be the more promptly complied with.

Meanwhile I take pleasure in calling your attention to the enclosed memorial of the terri-
torial legislature, as indicating the wants of a large number of Indian and half-breed girls,
and the public feeling towards the enterprise of Father Chirouse.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. A. HUNTINGDON, Chief Clerk.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY, Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

SEAT OF GOVERNMENT, WASHINGTON TERRITORY,
Olympia, January 20, 1866.

We, the undersigned members of the legislature in Washington Territory, beg leave respect-
fully to represent to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs that there is an urgent necessity
among the Indians of this Territory for the establishment of a school for the protection and
education of Indian girls, and that in our judgment this object can be most economically and
most effectively attained through Reverend Father Chirouse, the present superintendent of
the Tulalip Indian school.

The very great and acknowledged benefits of that school have thus far been limited to
boys, while no provision has been made for the instruction and guardianship of Indian girls,
who almost universally fall victims at an early age to habits of the most degrading immoral
ity. We therefore further beg leave to recommend that the sum of five thousand dollars be
immediately placed in the hands of the superintendent of Indian affairs', to be expended un-
der his direction in the establishment of a female department of the Tulalip school, under the
management of the Sisters of Charity.

Members of Council.

Harvey K. Hines, S. S. Ford,

J. C. Houn Bohkelon, John Denny,

E. C. Ferguson, Levi Farnswortb.

Members of House of Representatives.

Edward Eldridge, James Urquhart,

H. C. Rowe, M. R. Hathaway,

A. S. Miller, Alven Clark,

H. F. Smith, B. N. Sexton,

James McAuffy, S. D. Ruddell,

W. R. Downey, C. Clymer,

Samuel M. Caw, L. F. B. Andrews,

Giles Ford, H. G. Stieve,

Willard C. Do wen, William B. Gunnell.
Thompson Dray,

No. 2.

MAKAH INDIAN AGENCY, NEEAH BAY RESERVATION, W. T.,

March 16, 1866.

SiR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt this day of your letter of February 20,
1866, calling my attention to a circular issued from the office of the Commissioner July 27,
1865, directing agents to make a full and explicit monthly report of the condition of the tribe
or tribes under their charge. I have never received such a circular, and prior to the receipt
of your letter above mentioned was not informed of any such requirement of the depart-
ment.

68 WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENT.

In obedience to your instructions I now furnish the following statement of the tribe under
my charge (the Makah) for the month of March, 1866.

The location of this tribe is on the most remote northwestern pdrtion of the possessions of
the United States, Cape Flattery, at the entrance of the straits of Fuca. They number nearly
seven hundred (700) souls, and reside at the village of Neeah, onNeeah bay,'Wa-atch, Isores
and Hosett, on the Pacific coast, the last-named village being at Flaftery Rocks, fifteen miles
south from Cape Flattery. These Indians are a hardy, bold and adventurous tribe, deriving
their subsistence almost entirely from the ocean. They are to other tribes what the inhab-
itants of Nantucket were formerly to the citizens of the Atlantic coast. They are the whale-
men, and boldly push out to sea in the canoe, in pursuit of whales, which are at once a source
of food and profit. What oil and blubber are not consumed by the tribe are sold to the In-
dians of Vancouver's island and on the shores of the Straits of Fuca.

They are probably nearer the normal state of savage wildness than any other tribe in this
Territory, and seem peculiarly averse to acquiring the habits and customs of the whites.

The employes on the reservation have been assiduous and unwearied in their exertions for
the benefit of these Indians and in the care of the government property, but the most that
can be said to have been effected has been to keep the Indians quiet and peaceable, although
their labors have produced some good building's and a small farm in a horrible wilderness.

The importance of this service will be seen when the fact is recollected that directly oppo-
site and on the shores of Vancouver's island are numerous and powerful tribes of Indians
under British control, who have heretofore been at deadly strife with these Indians, and war
parties from either side of the straits were of common occurrence. But while we have thus
far been successful in keeping peace among the Indians, the fact should be distinctly remem-
bered that this tribe is fearless and never has been properly restrained.

Force is what we need, not only to carry out the wise regulations of the department, but
to make them receive the benefits we desire to bestow upon them. For instance, the children
should be compelled to attend school, and the parents made to feel the necessity of securing their
regular attendance; unless something of the kind is done, the labors of the teacher cannot at
all produce results commensurate with his zeal in their behalf. We should have force to en-
able us to carry out our police regulations, to prevent the introduction of whiskey, and to ar-
rest offenders. Recent indications have given me the assurance that unless we do have some
force at our disposal, these Indians will ere long commit offences of a grave nature. If an
arrangement could be made by which the steam cutter could visit the bay at least once a
month, much good would be done, but it will be readily seen that where a people are so ut-
terly indifferent to what we know is for their good, some force is requisite to teach them.
Moral suasion is very 'good so far as it is applicable, but with these wild savages kind treat-
ment and mild measures seem to be productive of few brilliant results. I am opposed to the
quartering of soldiers on an Indian reservation, both from the expense and from the injury
they do morally with the Indians. But we need and must have other assistance than the few
employes to carry out any stringent police regulations.

I therefore respectfully suggest that the co-operation of the collector of customs be invited,
to the end that he may cause the latter to make regular visits to Neeah bay and aid us when
required. One or two arrests and occasional presence of the cutter will enable us to do more
and to bring the Indians into better subjection to wholesome regulations than any other means
I can suggest.

During the present quarter we have been short of our usual complement of employes, con-
sequently have been able to employ a considerable amount of Indian labor in clearing land,
&c., which has had the double effect of teaching such as have labored how to perform their
work properly, and to enable them to procure food such as is used by civilized persons.

There is no denying the fact that the condition of these Indians has been visibly improved
since we have established the agency among them, but much remains to be done, and what
we have been unable to do by kind treatment must be attempted in some more forcible man-
ner. It does not always answer to simply teach an Indian that by pursuing a certain course
he will be benefited. There are occasions when he should be made to feel the necessity of
obedience.

The isolated position of this reservation, sixty miles from the nearest white settlement, and
without roads and mail facilities, makes it impossible for us to call aid from the citizens of
the Territory, and I doubt the propriety of receiving assistance from citizens, and as it is ev-
ident that the rules of the service will not admit of the employment of a police force, we
should be provided with assistance from the cutter.

The spring having partly opened, the whole force of employe's is engaged in preparing the
ground tor planting, in whitewashing and cleaning the government buildings, and preparing
for summer work.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY A. WEBSTER,

Indian Agent.

W. H. WATERMAN, Esq.,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Olympia.

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY. 69

No. 3.
Report of Sub- A ^ent Knox.

OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON TERRITORY,

AprilW, 1866.

SIR : Recent events in the Indian service render it proper for me to submit the following
report :

Relations between the Neeah Bay Indians and some of the bands under my jurisdiction,
viz., the Clallams and Elwahs, living along the straits at the town port of the sound,
have for a long time been unfriendly.

The murder of Snell, a faithful Neeah Bay Indian, in 1881, by Clallams, and the long delay
of the department to settle the claims arising from that murder, has been a sore, festering in
the minds of the Neeah Bay Indians ever since ; and they have also been emboldened to acts
of violence by the impunity of the Quillehute murderers, who ought to have been arrested
and punished long ago, if for no other reason, as a salutary lesson to other desperate Indians,
who, taking advantage of the indifference of the government to a most flagrant crime, com-
mitted upon a white man, have been emboldened to resist authority, and to trample upon the
requisitions of the department.

A few weeks since my attention was called by Agent Webster, at Neeah bay, to the fact that
one of his Indians, a bold and desperate fellow, had committed a brutal murder at Crescent
bay upon the person of a Clallam Indian, and that the relations between the tribes was be-
coming daily more threatening, and proposing to me to meet him at the scene of the difficulty
on the nineteenth of the present month.

As I was on my way to fulfil this appointment, I met, at Olympia, on the fourteenth, Mr.
J. C. Floyd, of the Tatoosh light-house, who had just arrived from Neeah bay, to report at
the office of the superintendent of Indian affairs that this same murderer had been arrested
by Agent Webster ; had been placed on board a vessel in irons, which vessel was boarded
by an armed band of his comrades, who released the prisoner, and that there was a condition
of dangerous insubordination at the Neah Bay agency.

I therefore joined myself, in company with Mr. Floyd, to the military detachment so
promptly ordered by yourself to the scene of the difficulty. Taking the Eldna Anderson on
Monday morning the sixteenth, and receiving the military thirty men and two howitzers
on board at Fort Steilacoom, we proceeded at once to Port Gamble, where the officer in com-
mand and Lieutenant Kistler chartered the steamer Cyrus Walker, to which the expedition
was transferred, and which conveyed us to Neeah bay, arriving there at a late hour on Tues-
day night the seventeenth.

Early the next morning the murderer and his rescuers were made prisoners and placed on
board the steamer in confinement, and Agent Webster and his few defenceless employes on the
reservation were relieved from a condition of great fear and danger, having been for a week
at the mercy of exasperated savages, the watching of whom had precluded the possibility of
sleep or rest.

Having, by this prompt action, overawed the Indians, and restored the authority of the reser-
vation, the expedition proceeded to Clallam bay, Agent Webster accompanying, to inquire
into the circumstances of the murder, and to reconcile, if possible, the breach between the
parties.

On learning that the murderer was in custody and on his way to prison, the Clallams
seemed satisfied, and we had no difficulty in gaining their confidence arid promises of amity.
We took considerable pains to inquire of reliable white people respecting the difficulties among
the Indians in that region, and found, as I had anticipated, that whiskey is the procuring
cause of all these troubles. I found that the present administration of affairs fails to reach
and correct the abuse, and, I think, any local authority is inadequate to the emergency. The
numerous Indian camps along the straits are so accessible, by means of boats from Vancou-
ver's island, that unprincipled parties can carry on a whiskey trade with impunity. The lo-
cal authorities cannot reach them, so as to correct the evil.

I beg leave, therefore, respectfully to recommend the appointment of a special police to
take the supervision of the Indians along the coast, without regard to the agencies under which
they belong, and to travel from point to point, for the purpose of enforcing the law and re-
sisting the abuses now so common and so disastrous in their results.

Having accomplished the object of our visit at Clallam bay, the expedition returned to
Neeah bay ; and leaving twenty-five of the soldiers there for the defence of the reservation,
and to enable the agent, if possible, to arrest the Quillehute murderers, the steamer returned
to Fort Steilacoom with the prisoners and a small guard, arriving on Saturday of the same
week.

In conclusion I desire to express my fears of the consequences of removing the present
garrison at Fort Steilacoom, a purpose which, I understand, is in contemplation. The pres-
ence of a few soldiers on this sound is, in myjudgment, indisapensable to the peace and safety
of the country, and to the proper control of the Indian tribes. The recent events at Neeah

70 WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCY.

bay, referred to above, and in point on this subject, and like occurrences, would no doubt
be frequent but for the salutary restraint of a few bayonets ready to be used at call. I there-
fore beg 1 leave to enter my protest against the removal of the troops.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN T. KNOX,

Sub-Indian Agent.
W. H. WATERMAN, Esq.,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Washington Territory.

No. 4.
Report of Agent Webster.

UNITED STATES INDIAN RESERVATION,
NEEAH BAY, WASHINGTON TERRITORY, April 19, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to inform you of the arrival of the steamer Cyrus Walker with a
detachment of troops, under command of Lieutenant Kistler, and of receipt of your letter of
the 15th instant, informing me that the troops are sent to my aid for the purpose of reassert-
ing my authority and arresting offenders among the Indians under my charge, and that it
will be well to take the Quillehute murderers at the same time, and in reply to state that the
efficient aid so promptly rendered has enabled me to arrest an Indian lately guilty of murder,
another charged with murder, and ten or eleven others, who rescued the first named after the
arrest was made, as per my letter to you of the 12th instant, and will, if supplemented by sim-
ilar aid when necessary, enable me to convince the Indians that crime will not be tolerated.
If the weather had been such that the master of the steamer could have felt safe in taking
the vessel outside the straits to Quillehute, I think I should at this time be able to report the
murderers in hands of Lieutenant Kistler, a consummation, I hope, not long to be deferred.

All praise is due Lieutenant Kistler, Surgeon Walker, and the command, for the prompt-
ness and energy displayed in the means adopted to accomplish the result. Annexed I give
the names of the prisoners now held by Lieutenant Kistler, and to be sent to Fort Steila-
coorn, and respectfully suggest that the two first be imprisoned for an indefinite period and
the balance for six months, and all compelled to labor until released.

This afternoon, with Agent Knox, aided by the force mentioned, we arrested at Clallam
bay, and now detain at Neeah bay, a woman and child, near relations of one of the Quillehute
murderers.

I take this opportunity to express my conviction of the necessity of having a considerable
military force retained on Puget sound, to prevent the Indians from the commission of crimes
heretofore too common.

(Then follow the names of prisoners, omitted in the copy.)
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY A. W T EBfeTER, Indian Agent.

W. H. WATERMAN,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Washington Territory.

Second report for April, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to offer the following report for the month of April, 1866 :

In my last monthly report I stated my conviction that this tribe needed some display of
force on our part to keep them in check, and my apprehensions that unless we could have
such assistance the regular employes of the reservation would be unable to enforce proper
police regulations. My fears in this respect have been realized during the past month by
the open resistance to my authority by a portion of the Indians residing in the village of
Kiddicubbet, between Neeah bay and Satvich island.

The cause of the difficulty was in my arresting an Indian and placing him on board the
schooner A. J. Webster to be conveyed to Steilacoom military post, a full account of which
has already been forwarded by me to your office.

At 11 p. m. the 17th instant, the steamer Cyrus Walker, having on board a detachment
of troops under First Lieutenant Kistler, arrived in the bay, and at daybreak of the 18th pro-
ceeded to the village of Kiddicubbet, where a portion of the offenders were captured, and a
sufficient number of hostages taken to secure the delivery of the balance.

The prisoners, thirteen in number, were sent to Steilacoom, First Lieutenant Kistler and
twenty-six men remaining here for the purpose of enabling me to carry out. your instruc-
tions, to secure the arrest of the Quillehute Indians, who were engaged in the Pisht murder
ome two years since.

WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDFNCY. 71

For the purpose of showing the character of the prisoners, I shall at an early day send a
special report, which will include charges that have been made against them from time to
time since 1862, and which, in my judgment, should be made to operate in the degree of
punishment to be inflicted on the offenders.

An opportunity now presents itself for asserting our authority over these savages by their
judicious punishment.

Two of the prisoners, in my judgment, taking the legal view of the question, merit sum
mary execution for the murders they have committed, but if they can be sent to the eastern
States, never to return perhaps educated there the same good would result to the tribe,
who would believe them dead. I respectfully suggest that all the prisoners remain at Steil-
acoom until I can see and confer with you.

I avail myself of this opportunity to express my high appreciation of the promptness and
despatch you have used in forwarding assistance to me at a time of great peril and danger,
not only to myself, but to the employes and government property under my charge.

I most respectfully invite your attention, and through you the attention of the department,
to the energy, efficiency, and promptness of First Lieutenant Kistler and the men of his
command. Not only have they proved themselves soldiers in the effectual manner in which
they have discharged the duty devolving upon them, but by their deportment have made a
favorable impression on the minds of the residents. The effectual means employed by Lieu-
tenant Kistler will result, I doubt not, in a more orderly state of affairs among the Indians,
who, having experienced the force of the government, will be willing to yield a more ready
obedience to the rules and requirements of the department.

The report of employe's, as per my report of labor by employes herewith, is a partial
statement of services rendered by them. In addition to the labor enumerated by them, they
perform numberless daily jobs, necessary to the proper conduct of a farm, care of tools and
buildings, to record and report which would require the services of a clerk, and the time of
all is more or less required to prevent gross violations of law by the more savage of the
Indians.

Labor on the farm has been much retarded this month by weather, which has given us but
few days without rain, and a fall of 11-& inches during the month. The Indians on higher
lands have planted ten acres with potatoes, but on the government farm, owing to its wet
condition, little more than preparing the ground for seed has been done.

The buildings have been repaired, and whitewashing and painting commenced.

The presence of a military force has somewhat interfered with the regular duties of the
employe's.

The report of the teacher and acting physician, Mr. Swan, will show the state of the school
under his charge and the sanitary condition of the tribes. We cannot effect much in the way
of improving the children till the parents are subjected to our rules.

I have been fortunate in securing the services of a most estimable lady and her husband to
be added to the corps of employes, and I trust that her presence and teaching will have a
more salutary influence, and be of great assistance in imparting useful knowledge to the
tribe. '

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENEY A. WEBSTER, Indian Agent.

W. H. WATERMAN, Esq.

No. 5.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Olympia, Washington Territory, July 2, 1868.

SIR : I have the honor herewith to transmit a copy of Agent Webster's answer to your
suggestions in relation to the school in this agency.

My own judgment of the matter is in no respect changed by the views of the agent ex-
pressed in this letter.

I have no faith in the present management of the school, and I shall continue to press the
necessity of a radical change, although I have to do it at the risk of incurring the displeasure of
the agent.

It is true that at Yakama there are some natural, local, and historical advantages ; but all
those advantages would avail nothing for the progress and good behavior of the Indians
without that constant vigilance and fidelity which so highly distinguish the administration
of Agent Wilbur. And, in my opinion, the same earnest devotion to the moral, intellectual,
and religious well-being of the Indians at Neeah bay, conducted in a true Christian spirit,
would, in spite of all the impediments cited, work out satisfactory results.

I am confident that the view taken of this school in the letter to which the enclosed is a
reply, is a just view. The facts, both as regards the teacher himself personally and as regards
the results of his operations, do not justify any higher view of it. I am confident that the
Commissioner is right in demanding improvement, and I believe the means suggested by him

72 WASHINGTON SUPERINTENDENCE

viz., that of the introduction of missionary labor in place of the work now going on, is the
right means to bring about the desired ends.

I do not accord with the notion of asking missionaries to be put into the service at the
cost of missionary societies. The money paid by government for the amelioration of the
condition of the Indians should be paid to just that kind of men and to no others. The choice
of men to be placed among Indians as teachers and governors is a matter of the first arid
highest importance. A failure at this point is an absolute and total failure of the high results
which alone are worthy of a Christian government.

If, therefore, the present teacher at Neeah bay is found wanting in important particulars, I
have but one thing to say about it, and that is that he should retire and give the place and
the pay to another who can better answer the responsible demands of the position. The pol-
icy which I adopted on entering upon the duties of my office in relation to appointees was
to consult the preferences .of agents, and endeavor as far as practicable to harmonize with
them in regard to employes under them. This course was advised by those officers in the
service in whose judgment I placed confidence, and has generally proved satisfactory, and
because of the remoteness of the Neeah Bay agency and its difficulty of access by any regular
conveyance, I have depended more upon the will of the agent there than in other agencies.;
but with the school I have never been satisfied. I have not, however, as yet thought it wise
to insist on the arbitrary removal of the teacher in face of the agent's remonstrance and in
the absence of the proper person to take his place.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. H. WATERMAN,

Superintendent Indian Affairs.

UNITED STATES INDIAN RESERVATION,

Neeah Bay, W. T., June 20, 1866.

SIR : Your esteemed favor of 28th May, with copy of Commissioner Cooley's suggestion of
16th March, 1866, relating to the schools at this agency, was received without the delays usual
in reaching this isolated place.

The regret I feel at our school not having worked up to the anticipations of the depart-
ment at Washington is very great, especially as the most untiring efforts have been made to
meet the hope to carry out the benignant views of the government ; and I really entertain
t he hope that when the honorable Commissioner is correctly informed of the progress of and
truthful status of the school of the Makah tribe, he will have no cause of complaint against us.

In the discharge of our duty, under the instructions of the department and laws of Con-
gress, over that tribe that from time immemorial have exercised theft, robbery, and murder
of all men, and especially the shipwrecked mariner, as a legitimate calling, we did not ex-
pect to bring immediately, but by slow degrees, into comparison with the Yakima, a very
old reservation upon which large sums have been expended, and among Indians who from
the time of Lewis and Clark have shown no tendency to civilization, and where there is an
agricultural and industrial school, (as alone provided for us,) together with an additional
school of the character selected by you for us. The view of the honorable Commissioner to
enlist the interest of missionaries for the benefit of the Makah school has never been lost sight
of by me, and I entertain the hope that one of the religious societies at the east will send us
the desired aid.

Now the appropriation of Congress being for an agricultural and industrial school, will it
do for me to pass these, change the school, and, under a missionary teacher and wife, in-
augurate " a family school, instructing the resident children, teaching the adults in morals
and religion, and "taking in and protecting the numerous slave children about the sound
doomed to a life of infamy, whom now we (you) have no way to protect, because we (you)
have nowhere to send them?" You are already aware, Mr. Superintendent, that all the
slaves in the possession of the Makahs have been emancipated and cared for by me, and
whilst your philanthropic views are, to my mind, admirable, I would take the large liberty
of suggesting whether the additional school at the Yakima, where civilization too has been
perfecting lor twenty years, woiild not be a better place for the emancipated, (not of this
tribe,) than to station them at Neeah bay, could we do so. The almost total abstinence
from the use of spirituous liquors, when by stealth offered the Makahs, compares well with
the other Indian countries, and exhibits the practical effects of morality preached and prac-
ticed by the present teacher, J. G. Swan. Specimens of writing will be forwarded, it is hoped,
in our next report. The progress of the farm, the increased industry of the people in other
work, will exhibit the progress of the agricultural and industrial school; and could we have,
as at Yakima, a religious school also, it would be very desirable, if to be obtained without
conflict as to the denominational character of the religious teacher. Until further instructed,
I deem it my duty to follow the requirements of the laws, fulfilling the primary object of
Congress the civilization and moral and religious instruction of the Indians of the Makah
tribe; and believing Mr. Swan to be well adapted to the position of teacher, for which
purposes I do not really think he could properly be replaced, I know of no man so well

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE 73

adapted to putting them in an industrial train, and being able to make himself understood, to
explain to them the teachings of that Holy Book to which we all should look for instruction.
Hence, I repeat, to your proposal to change the management of the school, I should deem it
an act of injustice to remove Mr. Swan, a gentleman more successful than any teacher,
starting a year before him, among Indians of the coast tribes, and that too with the most
difficult tribes to manage. His only means of obtaining attendance at school are those of
such attraction as he may offer, and has had no force to compel attendance. Incidental to
the agricultural and industrial pursuits taught, an effort is made to teach the fundamental
doctrines of the Christian religion. They are hardly capable of understanding the most simple
moral and religious truths taught by our Saviour, and much less to comprehend denomina-
tional doctrines. By degrees, however, they may comprehend and practice Christianity.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY A. WEBSTER,

Indian Agent.
Hon. W. H. WATERMAN,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Washington Territory.

No. 6.
FORT COLLVILLE, W. T., August 12, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 25th instant en-
closing copies of correspondence concerning a treaty with the Spokane Indians.

I am quite certain that Gary misrepresented the sentiments of his people when he informed
Mr. Chapman that it was the wish of the Spokanes to remove to and settle upon the Flat-
head reservation.

I have conversed with several leading men of the tribe upon the subject of a treaty, and
their removal to reservations, and while many of them are in favor of a treaty, they have in-
variably expressed the wish that their reservation be within or convenient to the country they
now claim and occupy. They reside on the Spokane river, from its mouth to the 117th me-
ridian, having no permanent homes or improvements of any kind east of this meridian, and
are in Washington Territory instead of northern Idaho, as stated in Mr. Chapman's letter
to the department.

I propose starting for the Upper Spokane in about ten days to meet the Indians in council ;
take an accurate census of the tribe ; ascertain the feeling in regard to a treaty, and collect
such other information bearing upon the subject of the correspondence as will enable me to
report fully on my return.
Very respectfully,

GEORGE A. PAIGE, Acting Indian Agent. ,

W. H. WATERMAN, Esq.,

Sup't Indian Affairs, Olympia, W. T.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE

No. 7.

WASHINGTON, D. C., October 15, J866.

SIR : In making my annual report for the current year, at a distance of many thousand
miles from the Indian superintendency which I have the honor to represent, and while suffer-
ing from severe illness, it will be impossible for me to be as minute in detail as if I were at
home.

The full reports of the several agents, however, render it unnecessary for me to go as much
into particulars as has been usual. With a few brief remarks about each reservation, I shall,
then, confine myself to some general matters which do not properly come within the purview
of the agents.

GRANDE RONDE RESERVATION.

This reservation consists of two townships and two fractional townships of land adjoining
the Coast reservation, withheld from sale by an executive order, and upon it is located the
oldest Indian agency in the superintendency.

The tribes located there are those who earliest came into intercourse with white people,
and they therefore exhibit most completely the effect of civilization upon the savage. There
has been among them a steady progress in useful arts ; a constant though slow advance in
education, and a regular diminution in numbers. They are always peaceable and well- be-
haved when whiskey can be kept away from them. Most of them are industrious and thrifty.

74 OREGON SUPERINTENDED Y.

They are located upon the border of an extensive white settlement, and are therefore more
exposed to the tempting influence of the vile whites, who are always ready to minister to the
depraved wants and habits of their savage nature. ,

The soil of the reservation is well adapted to the production of cereals, and produces some
vegetables tolerably well. Its great elevation, however, being near the summit of the Coast
mountains, makes it too frosty for any but hardy plants, and renders it liable to more snow
in winter than the lower regions of Willamette valley.

The Indians have for several years raised enough grain and roots for their own subsistence,
with the exception of a few old and decrepit ones, and orphan children, who are supported
wholly or in part by the government. They own a few cattle and more horses. They are on
the whole moderately prosperous, though of course that community, like any other, has a
share of vagabonds, paupers, and criminals.

S1LETZ AGENCY.

This agency is situated upon the Coast reservation, a tract of land which was reserved for
Indian purposes by Joel Palmer, superintendent of Indian affairs, in 1855, and confirmed by
an executive order in 1856, and is about one hundred miles north and south, by twenty miles
east and west. A larger number of Indians are located at Siletz than at any other agency in
the supermtendency, and they are in some respects the most prosperous.

Their land is not well adapted to the production of wheat ; and oats, peas, and potatoes
are their principal articles of food. Of these their soil is remarkably prolific, and as new
land is brought into cultivation the products of them steadily increase. They own but few
domestic animals, but have a strong ambition to possess them, and are gradually increasing
their stock.

The want of funds applicable to this agency has been a serious embarrassment. Only a
very small part of these Indians draw annuities, and the whole appropriation applicable to
their benefit is only two dollars and fifty cents per head. With this very limited means
much has been accomplished. A part of this no doubt is due to the very favorable location,
which affords plenty of fish and game, and yields agricultural productions with but little
labor ; but much is also due to the efficient and judicious management of Agent Ben Simp-
son.

A special report which I made to Hon. J. P. Usher, Secretary of the Interior, under
date of December 12, 1864, in reply to inquiries concerning Yaquina bay, was published in
the annual report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs for 1865, (page 105.) To that I
respectfully refer you for a full description of the Coast reservation.

In that report I urged the importance of providing for a removal of the Indians located upon
and about the bay before the land was thrown open to settlement. My suggestions in this
respect were totally disregarded, and a district about twenty-five miles north and south, by
twenty miles east and west, beginning two miles south of the Siletz agency, and including
<ths whole of the Yaquina bay, was thrown open to settlement by an executive order.

Upon this tract were located some Indians who had been encouraged to open farms, erect
dwellings, and establish themselves permanently. The effect upon them and upon the other
Indians was most disastrous. Th^y had all been promised protection in the possession of
these lands, and that protection had hitherto been afforded them ; but now the agent was
powerless, and whites occupied the lands as they pleased. There were also some public
buildings upon the reservation, and some boats belonging to the Indian department, but these
were of comparatively small consequence. Common justice required, and still does require,
that some compensation be made these Indians, and that provision be made for their removal
to lands not occupied by whites.

There is nothing so ruinous and so corrupting to Indians as intimate association with
whites. The northern boundary of the abandoned tract also was fixed unfortunately near
(two miles) to the agency. It gives an opportunity to any vagabond white or half-breed
who desires to do so to establish a whiskey shop within two miles of the largest settlement
of Indians on the Pacific coast, and there, for paltry gain, by ministering to the depraved
and vicious desires of the Indians, to be able to undo the good work of twenty missionaries
and school-teachers.

The whole treatment of the government towards these Indians has been full of bad faith.
At the risk of repeating what I have said in reports of former years, I will now briefly de-
tail it.

In 1855, Joel Palmer, then superintendent of Indian affairs, made a treaty with nearly all
the tribes along the coast from Columbia river to the California line. By the terms of the
treaty the Indians ceded all their lands and agreed to remove to the Coast reservation. In con-
sideration the government promised to pay certain annuities, to build mills, provide schools,
physicians, open farms, erect buildings, &c., &c. This treaty the Senate refused to ratify,
and it has therefore not been held to be binding upon the United States, but the Indians fully
complied with the terms of their side of the treaty, abandoned their lands, removed to the
reservation designated for them, and have with few exceptions remained there since. White
settlers occupied their lands, and still occupy them. The Indians complain, and justly, I
think, that having complied with their side of the treaty, we ought to comply with ours.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 75

This discontent is mnch aggravated by seeing that other Indians draw annuities, and are so
much better provided for. It is also often aggravated by the machinations of malicious whites,
who foster their discontent and encourage them to leave the reservation, and, seeking their
own country, endeavor by retaliation to recover just compensation. They had concluded,
however, that at least they were secure in the possession of the lands they occupy, but they
are again now doubly alarmed by having a part of their reservation suddenly taken from
them, and apprehensive that the taking of a part is only preliminary to the taking of the
whole.

I recommend either that the treaty of 1855 be ratified, that provision be made for making
another, or, in default of either, that some other plan be devised by which those tribes can be
assured in the possession of the reservation, and some compensation guaranteed them for the
lands they have surrendered.

In case a new treaty is decided upon, an appropriation of $8,000 will be necessary to defray
the expense of making the same.

But whatever disposition is made of the general question, it is very important that meas-
ures should be taken to remove the Indians from the tract thrown open to settlement, (which
tract, I may remark, is rapidly filling up with whites,) and to compensate them for their
improvements. I deem an appropriation of $5,000 sufficient for that purpose, and recom-
mend that it be made.

The boundary between Siletz agency and the district thrown open to settlement being an
imaginary line is uncertain, and ought to be located by actual survey, and marked by dura-
ble monuments. I recommend that an appropriation of $350 be made for that purpose, to
be expended under the joint direction of the surveyor general and the superintendent of In-
dian atfairs.

The teams at this agency are old, worn out, and many of them die off each year. The
agricultural implements are, many of them, worn out and worthless. As the number and ex-
tent of the Indian farms increase, the demand for both teams and tools increases also. I
recommend an appropriation of $5,000, to be expended in the purchase of teams, agricultu-
ral implements, and seeds for the use of this agency.

The old flouring mill, an account of the destruction of which will be found in my report
of 1865, (page 464,) ought to be rebuilt. The burrs and irons are in good condition, and
can be used again ; all the rest of the structure is valueless. I recommend an appropriation
of $4,000 to rebuild the grist-mill.

ALSEA AGENCY.

This agency is situated on the Yawhuch prairie, a fertile tract of about 2,000 acres, situated
on the ocean, about eight miles below the mouth of the Alsea river. It is on that part of the
Coast reservation which lies south of the tract recently opened for settlement. The tribes
which are nominally located there are the Coos, Umpqua, Alsea, and Sinselaw. The first
three live in the vicinity of the agency ; the Sinselaws occupy some fertile lands near the
southern end of the reservation, and they live partly by agriculture and partly by fishing.

These tribes were all parties to the unratified treaty of 3855, mentioned under the head of
Siletz agency, and the remarks made concerning them apply with equal force to these. I
again urge careful attention to the subject. In my special report to Hon. J. P. Usher, Sec-
retary of the Interior, December 12, 1864, I recommended the removal of these Indians to
Siletz, or to that vicinity. I now repeat that recommendation, and refer you to the estimate
then submitted for the amount of appropriation necessary. I remark, however, that if that
course is determined upon, and that appropriation made, the one of $5,000 recommended
above for the removal of the Indians from Yaquina bay and vicinity will not be necessary,
as the action in relation to the tribes at Alsea can be made to cover these also.

The arguments in favor of removal are, first, collecting the Indians more compactly to-
gether; second, avoiding the expense of one agency, (the Alsea;) third, opening for settle-
ment the south part of the reservation, a tract forty miles long by twenty wide, which con-
tains a large amount of fertile land, an immense body of superior timber, and some fine fish-
eries.

The sale of land from this tract in a few years would many times remunerate the expense
of removing the Indians.

The expense is, so far as I know, the only objection to the removal.

It it is decided to allow them to remain where they now are, some provision should be
made for a school among them, for medical attendance, and for the purchase of teams, agri-
cultural implements and seeds, the supply of these articles having been hitherto very meagre.
I recommend an appropriation (if the removal plan is not adopted) of $2, 500 for the purchase
of seeds, agricultural tools and teams, and the usual amount for the other purposes named.

WARM SPRING AGENCY.

This agency is located in the edge of the Cascade mountains, at the eastern base of Mount
Jefferson. It contains a small amount of tillable land, but has a vast extent of "bunch
grass," which affords excellent grazing. Timber is abundant on some parts of the reserva-
tion, but there is very little within less than eight miles of the agency. The buildings are

76 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY.

altogether the best in the super in tendency, and are ample for tbe use of the agency, no more
being needed unless it be a tew more barns and sheds, which can be built by the regular em
ploye's without expense to the government.

Many of the Indians are well advanced in agriculture, raise wheat, corn, and vegetables in
abundance, and have many horses and cattle. Others prefer to lead a vagabond life about
the little towns along the Columbia river, relying upon the prostitution of their squaws, and
sometimes a little labor, to provide themselves with whiskey and subsistence.

The former class are tolerably thrifty and upright, always well behaved, and of determined
energy in the prosecuting of an object. The latter class are lazy, thievish, and vile. They
are as distinct as if they were two different races.

The supplemental treaty made by me with them on the day of , 1865, of which your
office has been advised, relinquished on their part the right reserved to them by the original treaty
of June 25, 1855, "to fish, hunt, gather roots and berries, and pasture their stock upon lands
outside the reservation," has been productive of much good. It now gives the agent enough
control over them to confine them to the reservation, and the effect upon the Indians is most
salutary, in removing them from the demoralizing effects of whiskey and debauchery, while
it affords the whites an infinite satisfaction by ridding them of a nuisance which otherwise
would be almost intolerable.

The affairs of this agency, which had relapsed into some confusion by the long vacancy in
the agency, caused by the sudden death of Agent William Logan, (drowned on the
steamer Brother Jonathan, July 30, 1865, ) are now much improved under the efficient man-
agement of Agent John Smith. I refer to his report and those of his subordinate em-
ploye's for further information.

UMATILLA AGENCY.

This agency is situated in the northeast corner of the State, and is a fertile and valuable
tract of land. I have described it minutely in former reports, and need not repeat here what
I have said. As an instance confirmatory of what I have claimed for it in point of fertility,
and also showing the progress in agriculture of the tribes located there, I caH-your attention
to the fact that, at the annual fair of the Oregon State agricultural society, held in 1865, two
first premiums and one second premium were awarded to these Indians for agricultural pro-
ducts; and I may add that I know, from personal observation, that products of similar or
even superior quality are by no means uncommon among them.

The superior quality of the land, and its location on a great thoroughfare, convenient^
the gold mines of Powder river, Boise basin, Oughee, and other points, of course make it at-
tractive to whites. There are constant attempts to encroach upon it, constant attempts, under
various pretexts, to locate upon it, and occasional attempts to exasperate the Indians into the
commission of some overt act which will justify, or at least palliate, retaliation, and thus
give an excuse for plunging the country into another Indian war, the end of which, they well
know, would be the expulsion of the Indians from the coveted tract.

This cupidity is the cause of constant trouble to the agent and apprehension to the Indians.
If the Indians could be removed to some remote place equally fertile, and there relocated,
it would no doubt be to their advantage and immensely to the advantage of the whites, but
where is the "more remote" place to be found? Population is rushing into Washington,
Idaho, and Montana at the rate of many thousands per month. The only parts now entirely
unsettled are barren deserts, quite as incapable of supporting an Indian as a white popula-
tion.

I estimate that the reservation could be sold for $150,000 to $200,000. Its perpetual pos-
session has been guaranteed to the Indians by treaty, and it would be the grossest of bad faith
to take possession of it without their consent. That consent will be obtained with the great-
est difficulty, if at all.

Two roads have been authorized by your office to be opened through the reservation with-
in the past year, one for the use of Thomas & Ruckel, a stage firm, and the other for the
use of the citizens of Umatilla county, Oregon. The latter could not be built without pass-
ing through several Indian farms, much to their damage, and that I strictly forbade. The re-
sult is that the road is not built, and probably will not be. The other road passes through
the east end of the reservation, interferes with no farms, and will do no damage.

I call your attention to the fact that the title to this reservation is vested in the Indians,
and the right of the department to authorize the opening of any road through, without first
obtaining the consent of the Indians, is, to my mind, very questionable, and I further sug-
gest that, if such orders are to be given in future, they be deferred until such local knowl-
edge of the ground is obtained as will insure that they avoid interfering with the property
of the Indians.

The treaty with these Indians reserved to them the same rights that were reserved to the
Indians at Warm Springs by the treaty with them. I refer to the right to fish, hunt, gather
roots and berries, and pasture their stock on land outside the reservation. This privilege is
simply equivalent to giving them permission to roam at will over the country, and is demor-
alizing to them, and damaging to the white settlers. Their facilities for obtaining whiskey

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 77

are almost unlimited. Instructing them in schools, or teaching- them the art of farming- and
its value, are impossible, and the Indians are impoverished, debauched, and demoralized.

Every tendency to vice they have is cultivated ; the possibility of virtue, advance in civ-
ilization or material prosperity is abolished. I believe that a supplemental treaty, similar to
that made with the confederated tribes at Warm Springs last year, could be made with them
at similar cost. If accomplished, it would be of incalculable advantage to them and to the
surrounding settlements. I therefore recommend that an appropriation of $5 r OOO be made for
that purpose, and that the attempt be made.

KLAMATH AGENCY.

It is improper perhaps to style this place an agency. There are no agency building's there,
and no improvements of any sort, except of very small value and very temporary character,
Sub-Agent Lindsey Applegate has Charge of the Klamath, Modoc r and Yahooskin Snake
tribes, with whom a treaty was negotiated in act 1864, and he has (without funds) located
some farms at a point on the Middle Klamath lake, (sometimes known as Lake Toqua or
Tok-qua, ) fifteen miles below Fort Klamath, and made a beginning at farming. He reports
the Indians zealous to enter into farming, and willing to work.

None of the appropriations made by Congress for the benefit of these tribes have yet been
remitted ; but when they are, I look for the founding of a prosperous Indian colony there.
There are about two thousand of them, and I consider them as good raw material out of
which to make civilized Indians as any on the continent.

The Woll-pa-pe tribe of Snakes, with whom I made a treaty in 1865, came into the reser
vation, and remained there last winter ; but during the last spring and summer they all left
the reservation, and are reported to have again joined the hostile baud of 'Snakes.

This movement on tht- ir part does not involve any loss to the government, nor at all give
them protection in their predatory raids, for it was expressly stipulated in the treaty that
they should remain upon the reservation, and that failing to do so, they should be treated as
hostile. Nor were they to receive any benefit of appropriations, unless they did so remain.
But it has been unfortunate that they refused to stay, because that tribe, when once established,
would have been a nucleus around which all the other tribes of Snakes would soon have
gathered, and thus they would have been an instrument of pacification for the whole of
southern Oregon, Idaho, and northern Nevada.

I yet am in doubt whether they have really joined the hostile tribes. My impression i
that they have spent the summer in the region between Crooked river on the north, Harney
lake on the east, Summer and Upper Klamath lakes on the south, and Mount Paulinee and
Queah valley on the west. The tract of country included in these bounds has never been
penetrated by white men, is nearly destitute of water and timber, but affords fine grass.
This band of Indians have inhabited it heretofore, and, in my opinion, have done so this
past summer.

INDIANS NOT LOCATED UPON AGENCIES.

Most important among these, both in numbers and consequence, are the various bands of
Snakes. Little is known of them except that they are always determinedly hostile. They
are a nomadic people, sometimes appearing in Nevada, under the lead of Winnemucco, and
treating with Governor Nye; sometimes in Utah, holding council with Brighain Young or
fighting Colonel Connor; sometimes warring upon miners or soldiers in Owyhee and Boise;
and often making raids upon the friendly Indians at Warm Springs, or the whites on the
Canon City road, but always having their hand against every man, and every man T s hand
against them.

What disposition can ultimately be made of them, I do not undertake to say. Now?
nothing is to be done but fight and exterminate them. Yet I am painfully conscious that
extermination will cost the lives of ten whites for every Indian, and, besides, cost many
millions of money.

To attempt to treat with them now, is simple folly ; they cannot be even brought to a
council, much less to a treaty.

Their ultimate disposition is a matter that must be left to time to determine.

Of their numbers I am not informed, and at various times have made different estimates.
Roiighly, I estimate them at five thousand. They may double that, or fall below it.

The military forces located in that part of the country have been engaged, during the last
year, in warring upon them with varying success, sometimes gaming an advantage, and
oftener suffering a defeat; but their operations have really resulted in but little towards sub-
duing the Indians.

The number of troops has been grossly inadequate to the service to be performed, and they
have labored under the disadvantages of unacquaintance with Indian warfare, ignorance of
the geography of the country, and vast distance from points where necessary supplies can be
obtained.

The Indians scattered along the Columbia river, those on the upper branches of the North
Umpqua, a small band on Clatsop plains, and the Nestuccas, Salmon Rivers, and Tillamooks,

78 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE

number in all not far from 1,200 souls. They are in immediate vicinity of white settlements,
in fact intermingled with them, and most of them are as thoroughly debauched and degraded
as they well can be.

They are not parties to any treaty, and I do not think it necessary that any treaty should
bb made with them. Indeed, they are scattered over so vast a country that it would be im-
possible to gather them together for a treaty. But measures ought to be taken to collect them
upon some of the reservations. The Nestuccas, Salmon Rivers, and Tillamooks (about 300 in
all) ought especially to be taken under jurisdiction.

The country they inhabit is fertile, has a good harbor, and is filling up with white settlers.
They regaixl the Indians as nuisances, and have more than once asked me to remove them.
I have had neither funds nor authority so to do. I recommend an appropriation of $2,000 for
gathering together and establishing upon some reservation the Indians mentioned. The
amount named would be sufficient, not only to remove them, but to afford them some assist-
ance in opening farms, obtaining farming tools, &c,

EDUCATION.

I have little to add in respect to education to what I have stated in my former reports. The
" manual labor " schools that is, schools where the Indian children are separated from their
savage parents, housed, clad, and taught not only the contents of the spelling-book and the
Testament, but the elements of agriculture, mechanic and domestic arts ; the boys to plough,
plant, and hoe, to saw, cut, and frame ; the girls to sew, knit, mend, and cook these schools
are the only ones which benefit the Indians. The day schools, at which attendance is optional
with the scholars, and often difficult or impossible by reason of the distance at which scholars
reside, are of very little value. The scholars attend irregularly, and very often refuse to at-
tend at all, and when they do attend the good influence of a few hours in school is entirely
overcome by the far greater time that they are subjected to savage associations.

I repeat my former recommendation that such legislation as will place all the schools upon
the " manual labor " basis be adopted. In default of this, it would be as well to abolish the
day schools altogether. The number of schools in the superintendence is five : one at Uma-
tilla, one at Warm Springs, one at Siletz, and two at Grande Ronde.

That at Siletz and one of those at Grande Ronde are upon the manual labor plan, and are
a credit to the teachers, as well as a benefit to trie Indians. Mr. and Mrs. Clark, who have
recently taken charge of the school at Grande Ronde, are the persons who established the
school at Siletz, and conducted it very successfully for some time. I take this opportunity
to pay to them a just tribute for their moral worth, high intelligence, zeal and efficiency in
the discharge of their duties. The Indian children are fortunate in having such instructors.
Mr. and Mrs. Fraser, who teach at Siletz, are also very worthy and competent. The school
there, however, is much embarrassed by want of funds, and the number of scholars conse-
quently much smaller than it should be. Mr. Gillett, the teacher at Warm Springs, is very
competent, and has accomplished as much as any one could under the disadvantages of a day
school. The school at Umatilla has recently been placed under the charge of Rev. Father
Vermeesch, a Roman Catholic priest, and I anticipate much good from it, if it can be placed
upon the manual labor basis. The Indians located there were twenty years ago brought (to
some extent) under the influence of the Catholic religion, by a mission established among
them near where the agency now stands.

Many of the older ones retain a profound respect for the rites of the church to this day, and
they hailed the coming of Father Vermeesch among them with much joy. The reverend
father seems very zealous in the good work he has undertaken, and determined to accomplish
all he can.

The teacher of the day school at Grande Ronde was detailed by the agent (under my in-
structions) to act as farmer since last spring. The appropriation for pay of farmer has run
out, and consequently the agency is without a farmer. It could better dispense with any other
employe, and I therefore directed Agent Harvey, in view of the fact that Indians needed in-
struction in agriculture more than in anything else, to detail the teacher to act in that capacity.

I trust that my action in this case may meet your approval.

ALLOTMENT OF LANDS,

As Indians advance in knowledge of agricultural arts, the desire to own the lands they
cultivate seems instinctively to arise. The " wild " Indian never thinks of owning any par-
ticular spot of ground. His tribe own a certain district of country, but individual Indians
own nothing. But one of the first effects of putting him to work at cultivating the soil is to
create a desire to own the land on which he works. This desire is commendable, and ought
to be encouraged. The best way to do this, in my judgment, is to allot to each adult male 01
head of family, who is sufficiently advanced to appreciate it, a tract of land not exceeding
eighty acres, the title to which shall descend to his heirs forever.

The power of alienation should not be given, because too often the ignorance or weakness
of the Indian would be taken advantage of by the more intelligent white man.

The object should be to inspire in the Indian a confidence that the particular tract which,
he is laboring to improve will be the permanent possession of himself and his children. In

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 79

order to do this, it is necessary to make some surveys. I recommend that an appropriation
of five hundred dollars be made for this purpose for each of the reservations at Umatilla,
Grande Ronde, and Siletz, and four hundred for Warm Springs, the same to be expended
under the joint direction of the surveyor general and the superintendent of Indian affairs.
The sum estimated for Warm Springs is smaller because there is at that reservation less land
to survey, and the sum named for Siletz will probably be found inadequate, and required to
be increased next year. No estimate is made for Alsea, in view of the removal of the Indians,
which I have recommended, and none for Klamath, because the Indians there are not yet fit
for it.

MILITARY FORCE AT AGENCIES.

By recent action of the War Department all the troops stationed at Fort Haskins and Yam
Hill, Siletz block-house, and Warm Springs block-house, have been withdrawn, and the posts
abandoned.

Thus the Coast reservation, on which are four thousand Indians, is without a single soldier
to enforce police regulations, preserve order, or punish offences. This is not only unwise,
but it is hazardous in the extreme. The agent is powerless to control the Indians, except by
moral suasion, and this they oftentimes will not submit to. There is now no way of pre-
venting them from leaving the reservation or obtaining whiskey, and a few drunken Indians
may commit outrages which will bring on a war that will cost the lives of many whites and
Indians both.

There would be no question as to the result of such a war : the settlers of Willamette
valley are strong enough to overpower the weaker Indians, but it is far better to avoid the
outbreak altogether. This can be done by keeping a small force, say twenty -five men, at each
of the posts, Fort Yam Hill and Siletz block-house, and it ought by all means to be done. I
consider it unnecessary to garrison Fort Haskins if Siletz block-house is occupied.

Warm Springs agency is situated in the edge of the hostile Snake county, and constantly
liable to predatory raids from them. They have five different times visited that agency and
stolen more or less stock and taken many lives. In 1859 they drove off 700 horse's and
about 100 cattle, killed a great number of friendly Indians, one white man, and had pos-
session of the agency buildings for several days.

The last time they appeared there was in 1864, when, although a small force, under Lieu-
tenant Halloran, was stationed there, they got away with over two hundred horses. The
lieutenant, with his command, promptly pursued them and recovered a part of the stolen
property. The Canon City road (from Dallas to Canon City) passes within twenty miles of
this agency. It has been the scene of constant depredations from the Snakes. Last year
there was scarcely a week passed that there were not some depredations committed : pack-
trains, with their cargoes, stolen ; wagons and teams, with their freight, seized ; stock driven
off; teamsters, packers, or travellers killed ; in fact, to pass over the road was to peril one's
life. This year has witnessed a repetition of the scenes of last.

I mention these facts to show the necessity for military protection there, and the difficulties
we labor under for want of it.

STATISTICS OF FARMING.

The time when the annual reports of agents in Oregon is required to be made prevents
them from giving minute statistics of their crops, &c., for the current year, because the
crops not yet being harvested, their extent cannot be ascertained. The "statistical returns
of farming-," however, from the several agencies for 1865, which is on file in your office, will
afford good information upon this subject, and I ask that they be printed with this report
and made a part of it.

For further information upon the general affairs of the superintendency, I refer you to the
former reports of myself and my predecessors ; and the reports of the several agents and
employe's will afford you very full information of affairs during the current year.

VISIT OF INDIANS TO WASHINGTON.

None of the Indians of Oregon have ever visited their "Great Father," at Washington,
or, indeed, seen anything of civilization except the little that exists in Oregon. Their ideas
of the numbers, power, and progress of the American people are exceedingly vague and
often amusing for their childlike simplicity, and they often, the more intelligent ones es-
pecially, express a desire to see the "place where all the white people come from." To
bring a delegation of them to the Atlantic side and let them see the factories, the shipping,
the arts, the cities, the people in short, show them the difference between civilization
and savage life would, in my opinion, do much towards elevating them, and give them a
small conception of the power and consequence of the white race. I therefore ask for
authority to bring a small number say ten or twelve of the most intelligent ones to Wash-

80 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE

ington. I am confident that no measure could be adopted which"would inure more to their
benefit. An estimate of the cost of such a movement as is here referred to will be submitted
hereafter.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

I. W. P. HUNTINGTON,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Oregon.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 8.

GRANDE RONDE AGENCY, August 11, 1866.

SlR : In compliance with the regulations of the department, I have the honor to make this
my third annual report.

I am happy to state that the Indians under my charge are making steady progress in
agriculture, in which they are taking more interest than they have ever shown before, and
rely less on hunting and trapping as a means of subsistence.

In my former reports I recommended that the land be divided among the families, as is
provided for by treaty, that all might feel interested and encouraged in improving and
cultivating their oicn farms, and also in a measure in breaking up those roaming habits so
peculiar to the Indian race, for I have noticed that those families that raise an ample supply
of the necessaries of life rarely want to ramble off the reservation, but appear to remain
contented, making improvements in their homes and on their farms.

Although I have received no instructions in regard to the matter, I have temporarily divided
the land, giving to each family a sufficient amount to raise both grain and vegetables in
abundance, thereby securing to each family the fruits of their own labor, and I can say that
I am well pleased with the result, for most of them have gone quietly to work in cultivat-
ing and improving their land.

Owing to the high altitude of this agency, (situated on the head waters of the Yam Hill
river, and almost surrounded by mountains,) the seasons are from two to three weeks later
than in the Willamette val-ey, and consequently the grain is that much later in ripening.
Last season the rains pet in earlier than usual before we had all of the grain cut and
stacked ; the consequence was, before we could get the wheat and oats cut and threshed, a
good deal of it was badly sprouted, leaving a part of the Indians without seed this spring,
for whom I was compelled to purchase enough to sow their ground. But with the thresher
you authorized me to purchase, we can thresh the grain as soon as cut, thereby avoiding any
danger from the same cause in the future.

The amount of land in cultivation this year is larger than in any preceding year, and it is
as follows, viz:

By Indians :
Wheat ................................................................. 500 acre?

Oats .................................................... ! .............. 250

Potatoes, &c ........................................................... 50

Peas ................................................................... 3*

By department, for seed, forage, &c. :
Wheat ............................................. , .................. 30

Oats ................................................................... 40

Timothy ............................................................... 33

Peas ................................................................... 8

Potatoes, carrots, turnips, &c ............................................ 9

Total number of acres under cultivation

The crops at present, as a general thing, look well, and unless some unforeseen con-
tingency should destroy them, there will be an ample supply of grain and vegetables to meet
the wants of the Indians for the coming winter.

There are two schools provided for by treaty at this agency, the Umpqua day school anc
the manual labor school. The attendance of scholars at the Umpqua day school has been
very irregular ; the scholars attending for a few days and then absent for a week or two, often
not returning at all, makes it impossible for the teacher to accomplish much good. Under
these circumstances, I detailed (with your approval) the teacher to instruct and assist the
Indians in the management and cultivation of their farms and gardens. In this he has
been very successful, and has afforded them more useful instruction than he could have im-
parted to them in any other capacity. The Indians are much pleased with the arrangement,
and I hope it will meet the approval of the department to still continue him in that capacity.

The school provided for by treaty with the Molel Indians is conducted on the manual labor
plan, which, in my judgment, is the only one that will ever be of much benefit to the Indians

OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY. 81

and In trying to carry out this system I have had some difficulty the past year in procuring
suitable teachers, who would not only take the children into the school, teach them to read
and write, but would also attend to them in the work-room and on the farm, teaching the
boys the use of agricultural implements, the care and management of stock and crops ; the
girls not only the care and management of the kitchen, but to cut and make clothing for
themselves and the boys, thus qualifying them to become useful members of a civilized life.
In June I procured the services of Mr. Clark and wife, who came well recommended as
teachers, and who, so far as I have been able to judge since they have been here, will ren-
der the school a success, creditable alike to the teachers and pupils. The school-house was
formerly used as a hospital, and several Indians having died there, the Indians are prejudiced
against it, and many of them will not send their children to school that would do so if kept
in another building. The building is getting old and dilapidated, and will need constant
repairing to make it suitable for the school, costing, in a short time, as much as to build a
new one. I would, therefore, recommend that I be instructed to build a new one that would
answer for both schools, which could be done without much expense, as the mill could make
all the lumber needed, and the carpenter could put it up.

Early in the spring the dam was carried away by high water. In June, as soon as the
water had subsided enough, I had a new dam commenced, which, when finished, I am in
hopes will stand, but the foundation is a very poor one to build upon, making it a very
difficult matter to construct a dam that will stand secure against the vast quantity of water
and drift-wood that rushes down from the mountains during the rainy season, without incur-
ring a heavy expense, which I did not feel at liberty to do.

The mills, with some slight repairing, are in good running order.

When this reservation was established the government erected a fort at the eastern
boundary of the agency, where more or less troops have been stationed ever since, until in
July last, to assist the agents in arresting refractory Indians and in capturing and (returning
fugitives from the agency, when they were mustered out, and since that time there have been
none stationed here, nor can I learn whether it is the intention of the government to abandon
the post or not. If the fort is to be permanently abandoned I would most urgently request
that I be instructed to employ an additional number of employes, for although at the
present time the majority of the Indians appear contented, and are disposed to remain and
cultivate their land, still it will be almost impossible to restrain some of the worst of the
Indians from leaving the agency (as they would have done before now did they not think
troops would soon.be sent here) with the present number of employe's, for I could not at any
one time spare even two men to pursue and bring back any that might abscond. I most re-
spectfully refer this matter to you and await your instructions.

For further details in regard to this agency I would respectfully refer you to the reports of
the several employe's herewith enclosed.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

AMOS HARVEY,
United States Indian Agent.

Hon. J. W. PERIT HUNTING-TON,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon.

No. 9.

GRANDE RONDE INDIAN AGENCY,

August 1, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with your instructions, I have the pleasure of submitting the following
report.

I commenced my duties on this agency the 1st of July, and hence cannot make as full a
report as I would had I been here a longer period.

1 found the scholars that had attended school scattered to their various homes over the
reservation, and it became my first duty to visit them at their homes and induce them to
attend school again ; in this I was very much assisted by the farmer, L. Sands. Many
objected to coming back again, urging as a reason for their objections that many Indians
had died at the school-house while it was a hospital, and it became a difficult matter to allay
their superstitious fear, viz : that it will be the means of their own death in a very short
time if they live in a house in which a death has occurred, no matter how remote the period
of time ; and then again their dread of the reappearance of their defunct friends is a source
of greater fear to them than that of death itself, but I finally persuaded them to give the old
school-house another trial, and have gathered together nine children, five boys and four girls,
two of whom have been in attendance at school before ; they can read well and write very
good, and have some knowledge of arithmetic ; the rest had to commence at the first round
of the ladder, and are now making very good progress.

Mrs. Clark has the management of the housekeeping, and instructs the girls in the useful
domestic duties. The girls are apt at sewing and knitting, and render some assistance in
taking care of the school-room and house.
6 c i

82 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY.

The boys seem eager to learn, and I often near (out of school hours) the two advanced
boys instructing those that are not so far advanced. I find no difficulty in making them
understand the English language, and I endeavor to make them communicate their ideas in
the same language, but they will use^that barbarous jargon, the Chenook.

In closing, I would recommend that a new school-house be built, for two reasons : first, we
find it no easy task to persuade the Indian to give up his foolish and superstitious fears to
which I have alluded above, and if the Indian child is hindered from coming to school on
account of his fears, the end and aim for which the school was intended will be a failure.
While I was a teacher at the Siletz one of my scholars sickened and died, and while he
was in a dying condition we had to carry him to his mother's house to die, in order to retain
the rest of the school. My second reason, the very bad condition of the house ; it is sadly
out of repair, and to make it comfortable for the coming winter would cost nearly as much
as a new house, and then it is very inconvenient for the keeping of a good school.

Hoping the above will meet with your approval, I subscribe myself,
Very respectfully, yours,

J. B. CLARK, Teacher.

AMOS HARVEY, Esq., United States Indian Agent.

No. JO.

WARM SPRINGS AGENCY, OREGON,

August 25, 1866.

SIR : In accordance with the regulations of the Indian department I have the honor to
submit the following as my first annual report upon the condition of the Indian affairs at this
agency.

I was first put in possession of this agency, and the Indian department property belonging
to the same, on the 31st day of March, 1866.

When taking possession I found nearly all of the Indians in a destitute condition. Their
crops last year having failed, and a very severe and cold winter following, compelled them to
use all of the wheat, corn, and potatoes which they had reserved for seed to subsist them
until the snows had disappeared from the hills, enabling them to dig roots on which to sub-
sist until the fishing season. I immediately purchased with their annuity fund and issued
to them a sufficient quantity of seed wheat, corn, oats, and potatoes, and I was w r ell pleased
with the willingness and energy with which they commenced their farming operations. There
being no seed grain on hand belonging to the department, a portion of that which was pur-
chased with the annuity fund was used in seeding down the department farm.

I found the department horses and work-oxen and the horses belonging to the Indians very
poor and weak, and wholly unfit for labor of any kind, and there being no forage on hand
with which to feed them, they were left with only such food as they got by grazing on the
hills. This caused the Indians to be very backward in putting in their spring crops.

The Indians broke twenty -five acres of new ground in May, a portion of which was planted
with corn, but too late to produce any crop this season.

The Indians were well satisfied with the appearance of their crop till about the middle of
May, when the grasshoppers made their appearance in much greater numbers and two
months earlier than they did last year. The grasshoppers first made their appearance in
fields located at different points upon the reserve, and would entirely consume the crops
growing thereon before committing the least damage to crops growing in the adjoining fields.
A great many of the. Indians' crops of wheat, oats, and garden vegetables have been entirely
destroyed by them, and but a very few, if any, of their crops have entirely escaped their
ravages.

The wheat crop at the commencement of harvest presented a fine appearance until care-
fully examined. The wheat stalks were large and very tall, but leafless, and the heads but
partially filled with very light shrivelled grains, which will not average in weight more than
54 pounds per* bushel.

During the present harvest I have visited every Indian's farm upon this reserve, and after
a careful examination of their crops, and from the information I could gain in conversing
with them, have made the following estimate of their crops of wheat, corn, oats, and potatoes,
the number of Indians engaged in raising the same, and the tribe to which each of said
Indians belonged, viz: 1,335 bushels wheat, 71 bushels corn, and 256 bushels potatoes,
raised by sixteen Indians belonging to the Des Chutes tribe ; 1,352 bushels wheat, 16J bushels
corn, 31 bushels oats, and 480 bushels potatoes, raised by thirty-eight men belonging to the
Wasco tribe ; 655 bushels wheat, 109 bushels corn, and 194 bushels potatoes, raised by thirty-
three men belonging to the Tygh tribe. Total number bushels wheat raised, 3,342 ; corn,
341 ; oats, 31 ; potatoes, 930. Total number of Indians engaged in farming operations, 87.

The number of acres under cultivation by the Indians this year is estimated as follows,
viz : 260 acres in wheat, 10 acres in oats, 20 acres in corn, 60 acres in potatoes, 25 acres in
garden vegetables. Total number of acres under cultivation, 375.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENT. 83

If the grasshoppers had not visited us this year I am confident that the wheat crop
would have amounted to 5,000 bushels and the oat crop to 400 bushels.

The Des Chute tribe are settled upon and cultivating meadow land which required but
little labor to clear and prepare for cultivation, which will explain why so small a number of
men belonging- to that tribe have raised so large a crop of wheat this season. The wheat
crop raised this year by one man, Lawlas, belonging to the Des Chute tribe, will exceed
300* bushels, and the wheat crop of two other men of the same tribe will exceed 200 bushels
each.

The Wasco tribe of Indians show a greater desire and more willingness to engage in farm-
ing operations than any tribe upon this reservation, but the land upon which they have set-
tled, being covered with fine timber and a heavy growth of underbrush, requires a great
amount of hard labor to prepare it for cultivation.

There are but a few of the Tygh tribe who show any desire to cultivate their land. Nearly
all of this tribe reside together at the mouth of Warm Springs river, about 12 miles distant
from this agency, where there is but very little tillable land, the whole of which will not
produce more than 200 bushels of wheat.

I am pleased to be able to report that the desire of the Indians generally to engage in
farming operations is greatly on the increase, and will so continue if the products of their
farms will but moderately compensate them for their labors. I have used every means in
my power to advance them in their knowledge of farming operations, and had all of my
employes to spend as much time as possible upon the Indians' farms, instructing in plowing,
driving teams, harvesting, &c. They are all anxious to break up new ground this fall and
enlarge their farms.

With the balance of the annuity fund remaining on hand from the purchase of seed,
grain, &c., I purchased provisions and issued them to the Indians, thereby furnishing those
who were engaged in farming with the means of subsistence while putting in their crops.

After they had finished putting in their crops I granted permission to several of them, for
short periods, to visit the Dalles salmon fishery, that they might obtain salmon sufficient to
subsist them until harvest. I have used the utmost diligence and care that none of their
farms needed labor during their absence. They have been very successful in catching sal-
mon this season, a portion of which was brought to the Indians for their daily subsistence
while laboring on their farms. I have often visited them at the fishery and found them well
behaved, and but very few cases of intoxication. They have salted this season 153 barrels
of salmon, and have dried and cured in various ways about four times the quantity they
have salted.

The farming implements at present on hand are sufficient to supply the wants of the In-
dians. We require twenty scythes with cradles, and seventy-five sickles. There are on hand
at present only two scythes with cradles. Many of the Indians have been compelled to cut
their wheat with common butcher knives. The ploughs on hand are not fit for the use of
Indians in the cultivation of such land as this reserve affords.

The Indians are very anxious to erect small and comfortable houses that will protect them
from the winter rain and snow. With but few exceptions all of the Indians upon the reser-
vation, at present, dwell in tents built of skins and mats. From the time when they had
finished putting in their crops till harvest, they kept two teams steadily at work hauling
saw-logs to the saw-mill, to furnish lumber for the building of houses before winter. There
has been sawed this summer 62,738 feet of pine lumber, 14,078 feet for department use, and
48,660 feet for Indians.

The agency buildings require but little repairing to put them in good condition. The
blacksmith shop is old and useless, affording no protection from the rains and cold weather.
A new blacksmith shop, now being built, will be completed before fall. The carpenter shop
is not sufficiently large for the repairing of large wagon beds, &c. The flume which con-
ducts the water to the saw-mill and flouring-mill is now in a dilapidated condition and lia-
ble to fall at any moment. I shall change the water-course and build a new flume, which
will be more substantial than the present one.

I am happy to report all the Indians at present under my charge contented and happy,
and living at peace among themselves.

Que-pe-uiah, accompanied by eight of the John Day's tribe, have returned to this reserva-
tion. They arrived on the 17th instant. I cannot give any information concerning them,
as I have received no visit from them yet.

For information concerning the department farm, the daily school, the sanitary condition
of the Indians, &c., I would most respectfully call to your notice the reports of the several
employes herewith transmitted to your office.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN SMITH,
United States Indian Agent, Oregon.

Hon. J. W. PERTT HUNTING TON,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon.

84 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 11.

WARM SPRINGS INDIAN AGENCY,

August 20, 1866.

SiR : I have the honor to submit the following report of the Indian school under my charge :

From the first day of October, 1865, when all the Indians had returned from hunting game
and gathering berries in the Cascade mountains, till the first day of April, 1866, the school
was largely attended. The total number of scholars was forty-one thirty-four boys and
seven girls. The average daily attendance was thirty-two. Of the total number of
scholars thirty-six were of the Wasco tribe, four of the Des Chutes tribe, and one of the Tygh
tribe. On the first day of October last there were only five scholars who could spell words
of three letters, and of the remainder only eight who knew the alphabet.

On the thirty-first of March last, when you were put in charge of this agency, there were
two boys learning to read and write, six who could spell words of three syllables, five who
eould spell words of two syllables, and the remainder, with the exception of two scholars,
could spell words of three letters.

From the first of April last up to the present time the daily attendance has been very small
and irregular, no day's attendance numbering more than seven scholars ; and those who have
attended school daring the summer did not attend last winter. If all the Indians were located
within a convenient distance to the school-house, I think the attendance during the winter
would at least number one hundred and twenty -five scholars. All of the Indians wish their
children to attend school, but a majority of them reside from eight to twelve miles distant from
the school-house. I am confident that the Indians will derive but little, if any, benefit from
a daily school under the present system. The scholars during summer forget all that has
been taught them during the winter.

After one year's experience as school teacher at this agency, I am fully convinced that no
school, except a manual-labor school, will ever benefit the Indians. I will, therefore, most re-
spectfully suggest that the school teacher be allowed to choose from the different tribes twelve
or fifteen of their rnost intelligent children, and that a house will be furnished for them to dwell
in. Also that a field, conveniently located near the school-house, that will produce wheat,
corn, potatoes, and garden vegetables sufficient for their subsistence, together with farming
implements and work animals necessary for the cultivation of the same, be given in charge
of the teacher, the same to be cultivated by the scholars under his supervision. And I would
further request that the scholars be furnished with comfortable clothing.

It is impossible to have the scholars present a decent appearance in such clothing as their
parents can give them, or keep them clean while residing with their parents in unclean tents.
Neither can they be taught to speak the English language, unless cut off from all association
with the Indians and placed where only the English language will be used in conversing
with them.

Should the above request be granted and carried into effect, I feel confident that the In-
dians will be greatly benefited thereby, and that, after being in effect one year, the govern-
ment will be at little, if any, more expense than at present.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. U. D. GILLETT, School Teacher.

Captain JOHN SMITH,

United States Indian Agent, Warm Springs Agency, Oregon.

No. 12.

ALSEA INDIAN SUB -AGENCY,

August 15, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with the regulations of the Indian department, I have the honor to
submit this my third annual report.

It affords me great pleasure to state that the affairs of this agency are in a prosperous con-
dition. We have this season the prospect of a bountiful crop of potatoes, which is the main
crop of this agency, for the Indians to subsist on. The wheat crop will be light, owing to
so much heavy rain during last spring. For a more detailed report of farming I refer you to
the farmer's report accompanying this. The most of the Indians under my charge seem well
satisfied to remain at their homes, and to work with a will and determination to secure a live-
lihood by their own labor.

All the hunters have gone back to the mountains to kill and dry elk meat for the winter,
and those that are not hunters have gone to prepare their fisheries on the rivers to catch
salmon for winter. The Lyonslaw tribe of Indians, living on the Lyonslaw bay and river,
have a good crop of potatoes and vegetables of all kinds this year. They are industrious and
good hunters. They are but very little expense to the government. They ask for nothing
more than ammunition to hunt with and garden seed. They give the agent but little trouble

OREGON SUPFRINTENDENCY. 85

The Alsea tribe are of a lower class of Indians. They prefer making their living by fishing
and hunting. They have some twelve acres or more in potatoes on the Alsea river, which
will be sufficient to keep them through the winter with the fish they catch and game they
kill in the mountains. The Goose and Umpqua Indians have built several new houses this
summer and one neAv barn, besides other improvements, such as making and repairing fences.
Those Indians under my charge number as follows : Goose and Umpqua tribes '245, Lyouslaw
tribe 133, Alsea tribe 155. The health of all the Indians at present is very good.

I would very respectfully suggest the necessity of a treaty with those Indians, as they
complain very much of the promises that were made to them by General Palmer several years
ago, and were never fulfilled.

This is a very desirable place for the number of Indians that are here. There is plenty of
fish and game to be got, and enough good land to cultivate, but not enough to be any in-
ducement for whites to settle on. as there is no farming land between the Alsea and Lyonslaw
rivers, except this place where the agency farm is.

All respectfully submitted.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

G. W. COLLINS,

United States Sub- Agent.

Hon. J. W. PERIT HUNTINGTON,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon.

No. 13.

OFFICE SILETZ INDIAN AGENCY,

Oregon, July 31, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to submit my fourth annual report of the condition of the affairs of
this agency.

The number of Indians upon the reservation remain substantially the same as at the time
of my last annual report, the increase of the population being about equal to the number
of deaths.

Notwithstanding the non-performance by the government of the promises made to them,
these Indians still remain at peace with the whites, and show an increased interest in agri-
cultural pursuits, and are fast becoming an industrious and laboring people. Upon first
assuming the duties of agent here, I found that most of the improvements made by the tribes
upon the lands assigned to them were weak, frail structures, characteristic of the nomatic
Indian everywhere.

I found it very difficult to persuade them to build better houses, fencing, or barns, as they
were apprehensive of being again removed, their lands taken from them, and their labor lost.
Their unsettled condition, arising from the non-fulfilment of their treaties, I found to be a
serious obstacle to their advancement. By treating them firmly and with kindness, I suc-
ceeded in gaining their confidence and in convincing them that their location was permanent,
and by a firm system of discipline for the unruly and encouragement to all, with such assist-
ance as the limited means at my disposal would justify me in giving them, they have made
many valuable improvements that will compare favorably with any farming community in
the State. Every Indian family, with few exceptions, are now provided with a good sub-
stantial dwelling, surrounded by a small well cultivated garden, in every instance under
fence. Special encouragement has been given them in the cultivation of these gardens. I
find that this has had an excellent effect, not only in supplying food for their immediate
wants, but in creating individual responsibility and an attachment for home ; this attach
ment for and interest in home being the first step necessary to break up the natural habits of
the Indian, and consequently the first toward his civilization.

Though it would be impossible to give in this report a complete statement of the many
improvements made by and for these Indians during the past three years, yet the following
list will convey some idea of the kind and character they now have : 27 large log and frame
barns, 352 substantial dwelling-houses, 209 acres of land in gardens, and 764 acres under
cultivation and sown in wheat, oats, and timo.thy, or planted in potatoes and other vege-
tables.

This does not include the land (470 acres) under fence and in part cultivated by the de-
partment, for the purpose of raising seed, forage for the Indian department, stock, and food
for the old and destitute Indians.

I would respectfully refer you to the statistical returns of farming, wealth, &c., herewith en-
closed, for further information on the subject. Our crops, with the exception of the wheat, look
well, and promise more than the average yield. The following is an estimate of the probable
yield of the several crops upon the agency this year: 65,000 bushels potatoes, 7,000 bushels
oats, 1,000 bushels wheat, 250 bushels peas, 250 bushels turnips, 50 tons timothy, 800 bush-
els assorted vegetables. Should the weather prove favorable this estimate will not fall short
of the actual yield.

86 OREGON SUPERINTENDENCE

Our present wheat crop was planted with unusual care, and it was hoped that the result
this year would prove that,, with a thorough cultivation of the soil, and if sown in proper time,
good crops of wheat could be raised here, but the climate this spring was very much against
us ; the almost constant rain from January to May has injured it so much that it is doubtful
whether it will produce more than eight bushels to the acre.

In order to give these Indians a start in cattle, I purchased a few milch cows during the
past year, of which as yet I have made no distribution ; as the number was so small I have
deemed it best to hold the control ot them as government stock, so as to better provide and
care for them until they increase to a sufficient number to make a judicious issue.

The saw-mill is in tolerable repair and of sufficient capacity to meet all the demands for
lumber.

The dam needs some repairs, which will be attended to immediately after our crops are se-
cured.

The flouring-mill, as before reported, being entirely irreparable and worthless. I purchased
a movable patent French burr-mill, to run by either horse or water power. It is of capacity
sufficient to do all the grinding required for the Indians at present, and answers the purpose
as well as a larger or more expensive one.

From the peculiar location of the farming portion of this agency, the farms being from
four to eight miles apart, it becomes very essential to the interests of these Indians to have
good wagon roads between these points. During the past spring and summer, when not
occupied with their farms, I have employed them in this manner, and we have now nearly
completed a good substantial road from one extreme to the other ; distance, when finished,
about sixteen miles.

The Indians were well 'pleased with the project, and offered their services freely, asking
only as compensation for their labor that rations in part be furnished to the most needy while
thus occupied.

Our Indian school here is, I am happy to report, in a prosperous and satisfactory condi-
tion ; the average number of scholars in attendance during the past year were fifteen, all that
could be accommodated with comfort in the school buildings. I would here repeat the
recommendations in my former reports that a regularly authorized manual labor school be
established on this agency.

The occupation of the Yaquiria country by the whites, and the close proximity of their set-
tlements, has so far proved an advantage to the Indians, by furnishing them with a market
for their furs, skins, surplus vegetables, &c., not heretofore enjoyed by them, and if the
tribes here can be kept under proper restriction, this traffic will be an unceasing source of
revenue to them, without the disadvantages usually resulting from such intercourse.

You are aware that the detachment of troops that were stationed near the agency have,
within the past month, been removed by orders from General Halleck, and the post
buildings directed to be sold. This movement I fear will, unless I am authorized to procure
the services of additional employe's, prove to a great extent disastrous to the welfare and
discipline of this agency. The natural disposition of the Indians is to idleness and unprofit-
able habits, and their success heretofore in agricultural pursuits, and in establishing com-
fortable homes for themselves, have been more the result of the discipline established here by
myself and predecessors than any natural desire on the part of the Indian to better his con-
dition, and I fear that without more assistance it will be next to an impossibility to conduct
the farming operations the coming year with that success which has characterized the past.
Without restraints, the settlements on the Yaquiria will, instead of a blessing, prove a curse
to the Indians. The whiskey traffic, with all its demoralizing influences, will flourish, with-
out it being in my power to check it, and I sincerely and earnestly hope that you will en-
deavor to have a small body of troops stationed here, or that you will authorize me to increase
the number of employes without delay.

In closing this report, it is due to the several employes of this agency for me to say that
they have been faithful and efficient in the discharge of their duties, and that to their energy
and industry the Indians are much*indebted for their present improved condition.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

BEN. SIMPSON,
United States Indian Agent.

Hon. J. W. PERIT HUNTINGTON,

Superintendent Indian Affairs in Oregon.

No. 14.

UMATILLA INDIAN AGENCY,

Oregon, August 4, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to present this my fifth annual report as agent for the Walla- Walla,
Cayuse, and Umatilla Indians.

The Indians under my care are living together peaceably and contented, having nothing to
complain of on the part of the government, all treaty stipulations being fulfilled as near as

OREGON SUPERINTENDED Y. 87

practicable. The only cause of discontent existing in their minds is the constant fear that
the reservation will be taken from them and thrown open to settlement by the whites.

The past year has witnessed our usual rapid progress in agricultural pursuits. A large
area of ground has been planted this year, and the season thus far being favorable, we may
safely rely upon good crops.

As was long since predicted, the erection of mills has proved a great incentive to raise grain,
and the result is, several Indians this summer have more wheat than they can properly take
care of. I estimate the number of acres now under fence at something over two thousand,
about half of which is unbroken land used for pasture, hay, corrals, &c., the remainder being
in a good state of cultivation. The number of acres planted this year may be estimated as
follows : Wheat, 480 acres ; corn, 120 acres ; oats, 100 acres, with about 200 acres in peas,
beans, barley, potatoes, melons, pumpkins, onions, turnips, carrots, parsnips, beets, cabbage,
and other vegetables. The approximate yield of this land will be fifteen thousand bushels of
all kinds of produce, more than sufficient for the wants of all if equally distributed.

As usual, quite a number of Indian farmers will each have from five hundred to one
thousand dollars' worth of produce to sell, vvbich they can dispose of for good prices at the
neighboring towns and stations on the road. I may state that the hew white seed wheat in-
troduced here last spring in accordance with' your instructions is giving perfect satisfaction,
and I trust we shall be enabled to furnish the new seed to all next year. The ploughs and
harness received from you early in this spring have done good service, as may be witnessed
in the greater area of land cultivated by Indians who never tilled the soil before without as-
sistance from the agent. Upon the department farm of about sixty acres we expect to raise
sufficient of all sorts of grain and vegetables to supply the wants of the aged and indigent,
and to furnish forage for the government stock, as well as seed next spring for the improvi-
dent. The department property having been in constant use for seven years, has become
almost worn out and valuless. Most of the oxen are aged and unfit for service. I would
respectfully recommend the purchase next spring, from the appropriation for beneficial objects,
of twenty yoke of young work-oxen, or ten span of large work-horses, suitable to break new
land, for which service the small ponies of the Indians are incapable.

The saw-mill was finished last fall, and the flouring mill is being completed now, in time
for the present harvest. The value of these mills to the Indians cannot be readily calculated.
In the government of Indians, I believe the primary object is to consummate their transition
from barbarism to a sort of civilization that induces them to earn their living oy the cultiva-
tion of the soil and to conduct themselves peaceably towards the whites and each other. As
regards these tribes nothing will conduce so much to"' this object as the completion of the mills
upon the reservation, and the assurance that their lands shall not be taken from them by
force, as is often threatened by white persons.

It is generally understood that most of the Indians here are wealthy ; that is a mistake. A
large majority of them are poor indeed. The numerous herds of horses and cattle in their
possession are owned by thirty or forty men, who know how to take care of their property as
well if not better than white people. Many of the poor, such as orphans and the old, blind,
and helpless, require constant aid from the agent to prevent suffering among them. Indians
never help each other without hope of remuneration.

Hitherto I have been unable to report favorably of the school. At the present time I am
gratified in being able to state that our school is in full tide of successful operation, exceed-
ing our most sanguine expectations. Since May last the average daily attendance of scholars
has been twenty-five. To the unremitting labors of Eev. Father Vermeersch, the principal
teacher, is due, in a great measure, our unexpected success thus far; and to continue the
good work it will be necessary to feed arid clothe the Indian children during the winter to
insure their constant attendance. The children may be fed by me from the products of the
garden and from the mill without any extra cost to the government, and I trust you will
furnish blankets and woollen stuffs in time to be of use to them as cold weather commences.
If the plan meets your approbation I propose, as Father Vermeersch suggests, to plant a large
field exclusively for the use and benefit of the school children. Most of the Indians residing
here are Roman Catholics, and their attachment to the reverend father, who is pleased to act
as their spiritual as well as temporal teacher, is very great. I have had little trouble in
keeping the Indians in subjection during the past year; drunkenness and crime are becom-
ing less frequent than formerly. I consider it fortunate that the necessity did not arise to
call upon the military for assistance during the last year, as there have been no troops sta-
tioned within two hundred miles of the agency.

These tribes, although once powerful and warlike, are now completely subdued, and the
only violations of law and order are committed by thoughtless young men and renegades
from distant reservations.

For further information in detail I would respectfully refer to the accompanying reports of
treaty employe's, which will this yeai be found more than usually full and interesting.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. H. BARNHART,

United States Indian Agent.

J. W. PERIT HUNTINGTON, Esq.,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon.

88 OREGON SUPERINTENDENT.

UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION,

Oregon, August 1, 1866.

SlR : I beg leave to submit the following report as superintendent of farming :

At the time I took charge of that duty in April last, I found that considerable work had
been done by the Indians, under the superintendence of my predecessor, Mr. Cornoyer ; the
new ploughs sent up by the superintendent of Indian affairs had been turned over to the Indians,
who were busily engaged in putting in their spring crop. A much greater amount of land
is being cultivated by them than last year, and, although the continual wet weather delayed
the putting in of grains, I think from present appearances the crop will turn out well.

The new white spring wheat is a great improvement, but, there being only enough to give
seed to a few of the best Indian farmers, I, acting under your instructions, sowed a portion of
this wheat on the department farm; it looks extremely well, and I think we shall raise suffi-
ient to give seed another year to all who need it. The Indians seeing that the flouring-
mill now in course of erection will soon be finished, show a much greater anxiety to raise
grain than heretofore, and if we only had the teams to enable them to break up the land many
more new farms would be made next season ; the department cattle are too old to be of much
service, and the Indian horses too small for^that .purpose. I can only at present give an esti-
mate of the amount in cultivation this year. After a careful examination of the Indian
farms, I think they have about as follows: wheat, 480 acres; corn, 120 acres; oats, 100
acres, and about 200 acres in peas, beans, barley, potatoes, melons, pumpkins, onions,
turnips, carrots, parsnips, beets, cabbage, and other vegetables, all of which look well, and
I think will yield an average crop. I would respectfully recommend that the farm on Wild
Horse creek, which remains wet too long in the spring to raise grain to advantage, be seeded
down in timothy grass for the purpose of raising feed for the department stock in future.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. S. WHITE, Superintendent of Farming.

W. H. BARNHART, Esq.,

United States Indian Agent.

No. 14a.

UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION,

Oregon, August 1, 1866.

SIR : This is the first time I have had t he honor to report to you. I came on the reserva-
tion the 1st of November last year, in quality of teacher and spiritual director of the Indians
under your charge. No building being vacant at the agency suitable for a school-house, all
my time till the middle of May last, at which time you placed a school-house at my disposal,
has been employed in acquiring the language of the Indians, and visiting and exhorting them
it home, and performing for them on Sundays the divine offices, which the generality of the
Indians frequent with the utmost exactitude, and in which they seem to take an unusual de-
light. The school being opened at the time above stated, I enrolled thirty-one scholars, viz.,
eleven boys and twenty girls ; the average attendance may be fairly stated at twenty -five,
except for a short term during harvest, when a few were granted leave of absence.

This regularity in attending school must be for the greater part attributed to your solici-
tude and encouragement by furnishing food to the children during the absence of their
parents in their annual fishing and hunting excursions. I think really that the school has
been in every respect as great a success as could be expected for the few months it has been
in operation. I would, however, transgress the truth if I did say that I expect much of the
school on the present footing. Having but a day school, the children being under my care
but four or five hours a day, there cannot be a real progress either in learning or true civili-
zation ; they will continue to speak their Indian language and follow their savage habits.
It is really to be regretted that Indians who seem to show so much aptitude for progress
and civil life, and so much respect for religion, are deprived of a great part of those
means of education that are in existence on other reservations. There should be funds ap-
propriated for a regular boarding school, by which the children should be taken from the
control of their parents ; there should also be a farm attached, on which the boys could be
taught every branch of agriculture, and the girls, under the care of two or three sisters of charity,
could be instructed in knitting, sewing, and all kinds of housework. At the same time I
would propose the erection of a hospital for sick Indians whose condition would be greatly
ameliorated, and where they could be better cared for, and their spiritual welfare to eternity
better secured. This being the object of my most sincere desire, I would impose on myself
every possible sacrifice to obtain this end, if the government participated in my views, and
would be willing to co-operate with me for that purpose.

Submitting these views to your kind consideration and the solicitude of the Indian depart-
ment at Washington, I remain, sir, respectfully yours,

FATHER WARNEERSCH,
Principal Teacher for the Walla-Walla, Cayuse, and Umatilla Tribes of Indians.

WILLIAM H. BARNHART, Esq.,

United States Indian Agent.

OREGON SUPERINTENDENT Y. 89

No. 15.

ASHLAND MILLS, OREGON,

August 6, 1866.

SIR : I respectfully submit the following, my first annual report as United States Indian
Bub-agent :

I entered upon the discharge of my duties in the Klamath and Rogue River region about
the 25th of September, 1865, under instructions requiring me to exercise supervision over the
Klamath and Moadoc tribes, the several tribes of Snakes, and all stragglers lurking around
the mountains of southern Oregon.

On the J5th October ensuing I set out for the lake country, in company with the inter-
preter of the sub-agency, appointed agreeable to your instructions on the 12th of that month,
to attempt to conclude a treaty of peace with Howlock, principal chief of a tribe of Snake
Indians not treated with, who was then said to be in the vicinity of Sprague River valley,
and anxious to enter into a treaty of amity with the United States.

Having sent out a deputation of Yahooskin Snakes, together with Pauline, chief of Noll-
pah-pe Snakes to see Howlock, they returned reporting that Howlock declared himself for a
continuation of the war, and attempted to persuade Pauline to join with him. The prospects
of concluding a treaty with Howlock were hence blasted, and after remaining some time on
the reservation, examining into the state of feeling among the different tribes and inquiring
into their condition, I returned to Ashland.

Pauline appeared at that time desirous to carry out, on his part, the provisions of the
treaty made with his tribe on August 12, 1865, and as a proof of his sincerity, offered to ac-
company, with his warriors, the military, if an invasion of Howlock's country should be
made from Fort Klamath. Pauline, however, brought but few of his people on to the res-
ervation.

On December 18, I started for Fort Klamath to attend to the issuing of subsistence to the
Snake Indians and to examine into the condition of the other tribes, and on arriving there I
issued to Pauline such an amount of shorts and flour as I deemed would supply him and his
people until spring. At that time I found the Klamath and Yahooskins generally quite well
enough provided with dried fish, &c., to subsist them during the remainder of the winter,
but to quiet their loud clamorings for flour, I made some moderate issues to the chiefs and,
through them, to some of their subjects who seemed rather needy. I became convinced at
this time of a growing disaffection among the Indians, on account of the tardiness of the
government in fulfilling treaty stipulations, and I gave it as my opinion, in a communication
addressed to your office, that something should be done by the government, as soon as pos-
sible, to inspire the Indians with proper confidence in it.

In order to give the Indians some tangible evidence of the government's intention to fulfil
its promises, as well as to ascertain the variety of garden vegetables and cereals that could
be produced on the Klamath reservation, as far as possible, considering the limited amount
of funds provided for colonization purposes, in obedience to your instructions, I commenced
making arrangements towards the close of April last to proceed to the reservation and put in
a crop there, calculating that early in May it would be possible to cross the Cascade moun-
tains with a wagon.

Having made necessary purchases and having employed a person to assist in driving the
team and also in ploughing and planting, I left Ashland on May 1, and followed the old
emigrant road without difficulty, except from fallen timber, as far as the emigrant crossing
on the Klamath river, where I changed my course from almost due east and pursued as far
as Sink river, in a northeasterly direction, a route sometimes followed by wagons on their
way to the gold region of the Columbia. At Sink river I changed my course a little west of
north through the mountains bordering Upper Klamath lake on the east, and after travelling
through a pass in the mountains never before traversed by wagons, but decidedly practicable,
on May 12 I arrived at the head of navigation on the lake, about eight miles south of Fort
Klamath, four miles north of Williamson river, and twenty-five from Ashland, and at the
point I decided to commence operations.

From this place, which is called Ko-was-ta by the Indians, level, fertile plains extend off
towards Fort Klamath, bordered on the east by splendid groves of timber and crossed by
beautiful streams of water, clear as crystal. This location for an agency, in my estimation,
could scarcely be excelled. Fine timber, stone and wild meadow lands abound ; the climate
is far milder than tbat of Fort Klamath, but a few miles above, and it is near enough to that
post and to the Indian village on Williamson river for any required purpose. Three miles
above on Ko-was-ta or Crooked river there is as fine a mill site as I have ever seen, and from
the rivulet just mentioned all the tillable land below could be easily irrigated if it should re-
quire it.

Ploughing was commenced soon after arriving at Ko-was-ta, and by the 31st of May six-
teen acres were put in, seven in wheat, oats, bearded and bald barley, seven in corn and
beans, and two in turnips, carrots, peas, potatoes, artichokes and onions. By the assist-
ance of the Indians, there was also built a good substantial log house, and the Indians en-

90 OREGON SUPERINTENDENT Y.

closed the fieTa, and altogether about a thousand acres of land, with a good brash and log
fence. I made necessary arrangement and had put in at Williamson river, about the 1st of
May, in a small enclosure, a number of varieties of garden vegetables, as also some wheat
and oats.

The Klamaths and Gahooskins, when they saw operations actually commenced, became
reassured of the good intentions of the government, and I far exceeded my most sanguine
expectations in regard to employing them in labor. They were ready and willing to assist
as I should direct, and during the whole time of laboring on the reservation I kept a fatigue
party of from ten to thirty-six at work, all they received in return being some shorts I is-
sued to them while laboring and the prospect of better times in future. The season being
far advanced, operations ceased for a time with the close of May.

On the 18th of July I appointed, at a moderate salary for the time being, a person to re-
side on the agency farm to attend to the cultivation of the crop, to provide hay sufficient to
subsist the department animals through the winter, and to transact such other duties there
as may be calculated to promote the good being of the service. Through the representations
of the farmer, I am able to state, that at present most of the crop is nourishing ; a part, how-
ever, put in on dry land is not doing very well. At Kowasta most of the corn, turnips, po-
tatoes, barley, oats and wheat look well and promise an abundant yield, and at Williamson
river the wheat and oats are waist-high and are heading out, but most of the vegetables at
the latter place were put in rather too early and are not flourishing. I am very well satisfied
that the climate and soil of Kowasta and of the bottoms on Williamson river are suited to
the production of wheat, oats, barley, rye, carrots, cabbages, turnips, potatoes, artichokes
and Indian corn, and from the appearance of things thus far, would give it as my opinion
that all those things may be cultivated there with advantage.

There are sufficient colonization funds or more than a sufficiency on hand to meet the ex-
penses that would necessarily be incurred in putting in a respectable crop of grain on the
reservation this fall, and I am of opinion that the interests of the service would be much pro-
moted by employing so much of them as would be necessary for that purpose.

There are at present no Snakes proper on the reservation, unless we except some prisoners
in the custody of the military at Fort Klamath. Pauline left the reservation with his people
some time in April last, and I am led to believe that he went away with hostile designs, arid
that there is now a union of all the Snakes proper for a more determined war. I hoped for
a long time that Pauline was only absent in pursuance of a promise to use his influence to
persuade Howlock and other hostile chieftains to forsake the war-path, but it seems suffi-
ciently evident that he nor his people now harbor any feelings of amity towards the United
States. The universal belief among the Klamaths and Yahooskins is that the Snakes are all
for war. Their vigilance lest the Snakes invade their country to rob and plunder, the with-
drawal of Pauline and his people from the reservation in a clandestine manner, the lurking
of straggling bands of Snakes around its limits and the increase in number of the depreda-
tions in the Columbian regions, would seem sufficient to justify the military in capturing all
the stragglers possible around the reservation, and Major W. V. Rinehart, commanding Fort
Klamath, with the assistance of Klamaths and Yahooskins, has taken captive a number of
Snakes. "The Klamaths and Yahooskins," Major Rinehart says, " are eager to vindicate
their loyalty, and would willingly become our allies in an invasion of the Snake domain."

The Moadoc Indians who withdrew from their country last year, through the influence, as
I believe, of certain white persons, more intent on promoting their own pecuniary interests
than the good-being of the Indians or the welfare of the country, have sent messengers to
me at different times, to represent their readiness to do as I may desire them, and their wil-
lingness to come on to the reservation in the event of the ratification of the treaty made with
them, the Klamaths and Yahooskius conjointly. They have returned to their country in and
around Clear Lake valley, and are collecting roots and seeds for winter use.

Of straggling Indians there are a few in southern Oregon. Thirteen Molalles are at
Flounce Rock, on the head-waters of Rogue river ; a little band of the same tribe are on the
Cascade range further north ; and I have just learned that there is a little band, I know not
of what tribe, on south Umpqua river. If provision is made for the maintenance of these
stragglers on the Klamath reservation, I apprehend no difficulty in removing them there.
The Klamaths are anxious to assist in bringing stragglers on to the reservation, and I have
already given some of them permission to bring some of their own people from Oregon City
and the Dalles.

Here let me represent the necessity of purchasing, if the funds provided for such purposes
in this department are adequate, a considerable amount of shorts or flour, to issue to Indians
while laboring on the Klamath reservation, and also to supply the destitute and the sick
through the coming winter. I hope the treaty of October 15 will be ratified at an early day,
so that more extensive measures may be adopted to improve the condition of the tribes in-
cluded in that compact. By proper management they would very soon become an agricultu-
ral people, and under due and proper regulations, with their advancement in agricultural
knowledge, their barbarous customs would fast disappear, and civilized habits take their
place.

I would here state that kindness and courtesy have characterized Major Rinehart, Captain

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 91

McCall and Lieutenants Oat man and Pattens, stationed at Fort Klamath, during my inter-
course with them, and I would express my thankfulness for their valuable assistance and
many favors.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

LINDSAY APPLEGATE,

United States Indian Sub-Agent.
Hon. J. W P. HUNTINGTON,

Superintendent Indian Affairs in Oregon.

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCE

No. 16.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, CALIFORNIA,

San Francisco, September 15, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor in compliance with the requirements of the department to submit
my second annual report of the condition of Indian affairs within my superintendency.

The accompanying reports of the several agents will exhibit statements in detail of the
condition of the Indian service at the several agencies.

I take pleasure in bearing' testimony to the faithful and efficient manner in which the sev-
eral agents and employes have discharged their duties, the results of which have been, in
part, the gradual and permanent improvement of the condition of the Indians, and the large
and abundant harvests on the several reservations, which have been the results of the united
labors of the employes and Indians.

Round Valley reservation, under charge of Agent Fairfield, has increased evidences of suc-
cess and prosperity. The Indians at this agency, under the direction and supervision of the
agent and employes, have performed a large amount of labor during the past year. They
have procured from the adjacent mountains the timber and shingles, and erected a large
frame barn 46 by 60 feet, two large frame granaries, one 24 by 24 feet, and one 30 by 30 feet,
an addition to frame barn, (erected year previous,) of 24 by 25 feet. They have made
30,000 rails, enclosed 2,300 acres of land, (making the number of acres of land enclosed on
the reservation with an excellent fence 5,000 acres,) and have put in cultivation 1,100 acres
grain and vegetables.

The station at the Mendocino reservation, in charge of E. J. Whipple, was discontinued s
the 31st of March last, the employe's discharged, and the government property removed to
Round valley. It is thought advisable that the Indians should remain at their present loca-
tion for the time beiog ; they desire to remain until the lands of the reservation shall have
been sold by the government. At this locality they obtain large quantities of fish and clams,
and many of them find employment at the lumber mills in the vicinity at fair wages, with
which they obtain clothing ; their presence is not obnoxious to the few settlers adjoining the
reservation, nor is their labor required on the reservation at Round valley at present ; as soon,
however, as the interests of the service require it, they will be removed. They are under
the supervision of the agent at Round valley, and will be furnished by him with such addi-
tional subsistence as they may require.

In October last, 342 Wrylackers, Trinity and Eel River Indians, which were held as pris-
oners of war at Humboldt bay, were removed by the military authorities to Round valley,
and placed in charge of the agent. During the winter and spring a number of the Trinity
Indians, (advised and instigated by white .men, who have located in the vicinity of the res-
ervation, and are known as squaw men,) have left the reservation and returned to their for-
mer locations in Trinity county; they are that portion of the Trinity Indians who had
become domesticated, and at the time of their being taken and held as prisoners they were,
the most of them, in the employ of the whites. No measures have been taken by the agent
up to the present time for their return.

By observation and information obtained during the past year, I must again urge upon
the department the importance, and for the benefit of the Indian service, the necessity of the
entire valley, w r ith its extensions to the summit of the surrounding nlountains, with bounda-
ries as indicated in topographical map, (which I enclose with this report, ) be set apart and
held for reservation purposes. The settlers in the valley, who are entitled to, should receive
a fair compensation for their improvements.

The mountain lands embraced within the boundaries designated on the accompanying map
would be valuable to the reservation for pasturage, and invaluable insomuch that a class of
white men, (known as squaw men,) whose locations in the proximity of the reservations
are their bane and curse, would be, by the boundaries, prevented from settling and locating
where their connexions and influence with the Indians would be so deleterious to their wel-
fare and the prosperity of the reservation.

A bill in relation to Round valley and other Indian reservations in northern California,
ntroduced in the House of Representatives by Hon. John Bidwell, meets with my appro-

92 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

val, except the boundaries mentioned in the bill. The boundaries should, for the reasons
above stated, be enlarged and extended to the summit of the mountains, as indicated in the
map. These mountain lauds cannot for many years be of any value to the government,
except in connexion with the reservation, while if they are not included within the limits of the
reservation they will be occupied by stock men, hunters, and squaw men, for the time being.
Government stock will disappear, the Indians will be outraged by the abduction and stealing
of their squaws, liquors will be furnished them clandestinely, and all of those evils to the
reservation which have been and still continue to be the results of a close proximity of this
class of people will not be abated.

The reservations of Mendocino and Nome Lackee having been abandoned, I would rec-
ommend that the land embraced within said reservations be brought into market and dis-
posed of for settlement at an early day. A large portion of the lands embraced within the
Nome Lackee reservation are well adapted for stock grazing and raising small grain, and
the citizens are ready and anxious to purchase and occupy the lands as soon as they are
offered for sale, and I believe it is the true policy of the government, and would be to the
interest of the county and State in which they are located, that they be brought into market
and offered for sale as soon as possible.

Mendocino reservation extends from the south bank of the Noyo river, north with the coast,
to a point one and a half mile north of Bedata creek, ten miles in length and three and a
half miles in width. That portion of the reservation lying between the southern boundary
and Pudden creek contains most of the government buildings and improvements ; the land
embraced within this boundary was found to be unproductive and not susceptible of cultiva-
tion with profit, and the agency was removed some three years since to the northern bound-
ary on Bedata creek. The public buildings and improvements above mentioned were, dur-
ing my predecessor's administration, placed in care of Somers & Brown, (living at the
mouth of the Noyo, ) in whose care they are at present, without charge to the government ;
the buildings and improvements are unoccupied, and are rapidly going to decay.

During the administration of Superintendent Henley, a large and valuable steam lumber
mill was erected on the reservation, on the north bank of the Noyo river, by McPherson &
Co., with the consent of Superintendent "Henley, and a number of dwellings have been
erected on the reservation, in the immediate vicinity of said mill. I would recommend that
provision be made, on the sale of those lands by the government, for McPherson & Co. , and
other settlers, who occupied and improved lands on the reservation by the consent and per-
mission of said superintendent, that they be allowed to purchase the lands at a fair valuation.

The lands lying between Pudden creek and the northern boundary have been leased to
E. J. Whipple for the period of eighteen months, from the 1st day of April last, at fifty dol-
lars per month, payable quarterly, the lease subject to the approval of the honorable Commis-
sioner of Indian Affairs, and to any action that may be taken by the honorable Secretary of
the Interior, or Congress, as to the sale or disposal of said lands. The lands embraced
within this boundary contain some twenty-five hundred acres of fertile land, (one hundred
and sixty acres of which has heretofore been cultivated;) the balance of the land is sandy
barrens, affording pasturage to a limited extent ; on these lands is a dwelling-house, barn,
and stable. It was thought by the superintendent that it would be more for the interests of
the Indian service to lease the said lands at a fair rental, with the conditions as above, than to
abandon them entirely, or place a person in charge of the buildings and improvements at the
expense of the government. It would be to the interest of the department for the lands on
the reservation to be surveyed and brought into market at an early day.

The removal of a large number of Indians from Red Wood and Potter valley to Round
valley has been in contemplation for some time; the agent has postponed their removal
until after harvest, as many of the Indians are absent from those localities, employed, by
farmers in the grain and potato fields.

Hoopa Valley reservation, in charge of Agent Stockton: The affairs of this agency have
much improved, and have been well conducted by the agent during the past year. The
failure of the crops last year, on account of the drought and late planting, rendered it neces-
sary that some purchases of subsistence should be made to supply the necessities of the
Indians until harvest ; this, with the hire of some additional teams necessary for sowing and
planting the crops, has increased the expenses on this reservation to a small extent.

The excellent crops of grain and vegetables which have been raised on the reservation the
present season give abundant supply for all the wants of the Indians, dispel any fears in
the future, and give the assurance that the lands on the reservation, when all brought into
cultivation, can supply all demands in the way of subsistence, and produce a surplus which
would go far towards making the reservation self-sustaining.

The Indians at this agency have a strong attachment for this valley, and are contented and
well disposed. The confidence of the citizens in the permanent settlement of Indian troubles
and difficulties in this portion of the State is fully established, and the farms and mining
claims, which were abandoned during the aforesaid difficulties, are being reoccupied, and
the country is rapidly filling up with a permanent and enterprising population.

The receipt of the money appropriated by Congress to pay the settlers for their improve-
ments in Hoopa valley, by the superintendent has given great satisfaction and strength in
the confidence already felt that Indian depredations are no more to be feared or expected.

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENT. 93

Smith River reservation is at present in charge of George Kingsbury, special agent, ap-
pointed temporarily to fill the vacancy of Agent Bryson, removed.

The crops raised on this reservation the present year are good, and the amount of grain
and vegetables will, I think, be considerably in excess of the wants of the Indians for sub-
sistence. But little can be realized at this agency by the sale of surplus produce, for the
want of a market. The citizens raise an abundance to supply the demand in the country,
and the high rates of freight (owing to the dangers of navigation during the fall and winter
months preventing transportation to San Francisco) leaves but a small margin after paying
expenses.

Many of the Indians on this reservation have recently become dissatisfied and discon-
tented ; the reason they give for this state of feeling is, that they think government will not
purchase the lands on which they are at present located, and they apprehend they will be
removed to some location not so desirable. Quite a number have recently left the reserva-
tion, with the intention, as is supposed, not to return. The agent, with the aid of the mili-
tary, is endeavoring to capture them and compel them to return.

In consequence of this dissatisfaction existing among the Indians, the prospective con-
dition of the reservation, which, under the present condition of affairs, cannot be successful,
the additional expense and difficulties attending the management of a reservation under
these difficulties, and on lands rented of private individuals, I must, looking to the interest
of the service and of the Indians, recommend the abandonment of the reservation as soon as
practicable, and the removal of the Indians and government property to Round Valley reser-
vation ; this measure, if approved by the department, cannot well be carried into effect before
the 1st of May. An appropriation of five thousand dollars will be necessary to defray the
expenses of removal ; this amount will be saved the government in one year in the rent of
lands and pay of agent and employes at said reservation. I recommend the removal of the
Indians aforesaid to Round valley, for the reason that they will be better satisfied and con-
tented on this reservation than at Hoopa valley. At the Round Valley reservation are many
of the Humboldt and Wylackee Indians, portions of the same tribe now at Smith river,
speaking the same language, and their tribal relations are such that it would be to the inter-
ests of the service, as well as an act of justice and humanity to them, that they be united ;
and, further, whatever changes made in the northern portion of the State, in the removal of
the Indians, should be done, in view of making, as soon as the public interest will permit,
Round valley the only Indian reservation in that portion of the State.

The lands now occupied and cultivated for reservation purposes are under lease until the
]st of January next. Should it be determined by the department that the removal be made
next spring, the leases of the lands now occupied should not be renewed only the farm of
Sarville & Darby, on which the Indians are located, and this only for six months. A con-
siderable portion of the government property will not pay for its removal ; the superintendent
should be authorized, in the event of a removal, to have such property appraised and sold for
the benefit of the Indian service.

Tule River farm : This reservation is under the supervision of Agent Hoffman, whose
management of the affairs has been as efficient as could be expected on an agency located on
rented lands.

The Indians at this agency, under the direction of the agent and employe's, have, during
the past year, performed a large amount of labor ; they have, in addition to cultivating the
lands, constructed a water-ditch several miles in length, bringing in the waters of Tule river,
for irrigation purposes, on to the most elevated portion of the farm, and the public lands
connected therewith, and by which good crops of grain and vegetables can be raised in
seasons of the most severe drought.

They have also opened a wagon road, twenty-five miles in length, from the reservation
into the mountains to the timbered region, where they can obtain all the fencing and building
materials that may be required for the use of the reservation ; they have constructed adobe
houses sufficient to protect themselves and families from the inclemency of the weather and
to make them comfortable, and also have enclosed, with a brush fence, several hundred acres
of public lauds adjoining the rented farm for pasturage and cultivation.

The Indians perform the labor required of them cheerfully, as the amount of labor per-
formed on this farm the past year abundantly proves, but under the present condition of the
reservation, on rented lands, their labor can only be effective so far as to provide for their
subsistence. Could the government purchase the lands, which I have recommended in former
communications to the department, their labors could be made effective in permanent im-
provements, in the erection Df buildings, fencing, and planting of orchards, vineyards, &c.

I cannot agree with Agent Hoffman that no money should be expended in the way of
schools and religious instruction. I am fully satisfied that, with the reservation permanently
established on lands owned by the government, necessary buildings erected and improve-
ments made, and proper and competent teachers employed, (a man and his wife would be
desirable, ) much good and lasting benefit to the young Indians, both male and female, would
be effected.

If no other consideration than dollars and cents was involved in the purchase of this
farm, on which the Indians are now located, it would be to the interest of the government
to purchase the lands, as the amount would be saved in three years in rents paid and the

94 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENT.

increased value of the farm arising from the erection of buildings and construction of per-
manent improvements.

The Mission Indians in southern California, estimated, number 3,300. The condition of
these Indians, and what I consider was the interest and duty of the government towards
them, was made the subject of a special communication to the Commissioner of Indian Af-
fairs, under date of 13th April last, on my return from a visit to their locality. Subsequent
observation and information confirms me in the views then expressed, and I cannot too
thoroughly recommend that provision be made for their future and permanent location and
settlement.

The Indians in this superintendency, not including those on the reservations and the Mis-
sion Indians, number in the aggregate 19,300, estimated from the most reliable information
obtained. They are to be found in every county, but are the most numerous in the extreme
southern and northern portions of the State.

The Cohuillas, Yumas, and Mojaurs, numbering 2,600, reside in the south, on and near
the Colorado river. They are peaceable and inoffensive, cultivating the soil to some extent,
and furnishing wood in qiiantities to the steamers navigating said river. Their isolated lo-
cation, peaceable and quiet demeanor towards the citizens, and the mutual advantages de-
rived from furnishing the steamers with wood, suggests the policy that they remain as at
present located. They should receive from the government some agricultural implements,
for which they have made a request.

The Chemihuaras and Pi-Utes, 1,800 in number, reside and roam over that section of the
State bordering upon the Mojaur river and its confluence with the Colorado river. They are
more wild and savage than any of the Indians of California. Several depredations on trav-
ellers and settlers have been committed recently in their vicinity, in starting and driving
off stock, and several persons have been murdered, and it is believed that those Indians are
the aggressors. As soon as measures may be taken and consummated for the permanent
establishment of a reservation in the southern part of the State, those Indians should be
collected by the military and placed thereon ; the present condition of the reservation at
Tule River farm is such that this desirable object cannot be executed.

East of the Coast Range, on Owen's river and vicinity, are the Owen's River and Caso
Indians, in number 1,500 ; they have the same characteristics as the Cheminares and Pi-
Utes ; their removal to a reservation at an early day is desirable.

In the north the Klamath Indians, residing on the Klamath river, are the most numerous
in that portion of the State; they number 1,800. They are comparatively isolated, and
have preserved their tribal identity. They obtain their subsistence mostly from fish caught
in the river, on the banks of which they reside, and are peaceable and well-disposed. Until
that section of the State in which they reside is thickly settled by the whites, they should
remain as at present located, as they aie averse to being removed.

The Indians other than those before mentioned reside in various sections of the State, in
small communities ; in some localities their presence is obnoxious to the citizens ; in others
they are tolerated on account of the labor they perform for the whites ; their condition is
deplorable and pitiful in the extreme ; they are demoralized both physically and morally.
This condition, lamentable as it is, is the result of their intercourse and contact with the
lowest class of the white population, and they more readily embrace the vices of civiliza-
tion because it is only with its vices they come in contact. Place the Indian in contact
with the good, the moral, and religious, and he will yield to the influence with which he is
surrounded, and would imbibe good and correct principles. The Indians in this superin-
teudency are placed, by circumstances over which they had no control, under peculiar hard-
ships. Originally the owners and rightful possessors of the lauds in this fair common-
wealth, they are now the helpless wards of a government which recognizes no right or title
which they, may have originally possessed. With no lands, no treaties, no annuities, no
power or means of extricating themselves from the influences with which they are sur-
rounded, and which are rapidly and surely working their destruction and extermination,
and surrounded by a community whose sentiments, if not expressed in words, are in actions
and influence, the case of the poor Indian is a hopeless one, and before the march of civili-
zation he must give way ; and instead of civilization reaching out a helping hand to ele-
vate and redeem, it is used to hasten his destruction and effect his entire demoralization and
degradation.

How is the Indian to be raised from his degradation and vices, and be brought to partici-
pate in and enjoy the influences of Christian civilization ? He must be placed in a position
away from evil influences and under the control of persons whose example and instruction
would teach him to avoid evil habits and embrace good ones.

To effect this desirable and humane object, the Indians must be placed on reservations re-
moved as far as possible from all vicious and demoralizing influences. Agents in charge
and employes should, if possible, be men of families, residing on the reservations, where
the social habits and domestic comforts of civilization would be a daily example for the In-
dians, both male and female. The pay of employes should be sufficient to engage men with
wives or small families to locate on the reservations. One hundred dollars per month for
the service of a man and his wife should be allowed by the government, the man to be em.

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 95

ployed with the Indians in teaching them and directing them in their labors, and his wife in
teaching the Indian women sewing and housewifery, and habits of cleanliness and morality.

Manual labor schools should be established, and placed in charge of a man and his wife
of a moral and religious character ; then the Indian youth of both sexes should be taught.
The first rudiments taught should be labor, industry ; when this instruction is properly insti-
tuted, moral and intellectual instruction will more easily be inculcated.

I can conceive of no policy, except, the foregoing, by which the Indians of this State can
be really and permanently benefited ; but little can be effected in improving the morals and
changing the habits and customs of elder Indians. The young of both sexes, however, re-
ceive instructions readily, and with those should the efforts for reformation and moral im-
provement be applied and directed. In the county of Klamath, in which the Hoopa Valley
reservation is located, are one hundred half-breed children, from three to ten years of age.
Several of the citizens have expressed a desire that a school should be established on that
reservation, where those half-breeds could be taught, and receive the advantages and bless-
ings of civilization so far as they can be applied to their peculiar condition.

The reservations at Round valley and Hoopa valley now present inviting fields of labor
in this direction. Here are hundreds of children in a land of churches, of Christianity, and
civilization, whose moral degradation is as low as those of any people the most degraded,
and shall there be no efforts made to elevate and reclaim them from this condition ? Our
common humanity requires that the effort should be made, and Christianity guarantees suc-
cess if the efforts are made under her guidance and influence.

So far as regards the present and prospective condition of the reservation, in respect to
subsistence, improvement, and good order, it is as good as could be expected, and much bet-
ter than was anticipated one year since ; the granaries at Round valley are full to overflow-
ing, and abundance at all the other reservations.

The prompt remittance of funds by the department at Washington, on the requisitions of
the superintendent, and the prompt payment of all liabilities incurred for the Indian service,
has placed the credit of the Indian department, in this State, in a more favorable position
than it has heretofore attained.

The passage of the bill No. 572, introduced by Hon. James Bidwell, in relation to Round
valley and other Indian reservations in northern California, with enlarged boundaries, and
the purchase of the Madden farm, at Tule river, on which the Indians are now located,
would be all that would be required to make the reservations permanent and a success, and
which would insure a gradual decrease in the appropriations for the Indian service in this
State.

The assistance and co-operation of the military officers stationed in this State has been
freely and willingly given, whenever desired, in assisting the officers of this superintendency
in the discharge of their duties.

A statistical return of farming on the several agencies, and report of the number of In-
dians in the California superintendency, please find accompanying this report.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 17.

HOOPA VALLEY RESERVE,

August 20, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with the requirements of the department, I have the honor to submit
the following as my annual report of the condition of affairs on the Hoopa Valley reserve :

There are about twelve hundred acres of land in the valley ; the government has posses-
sion of all except the farm of Garrett & Campbell, numbering two hundred acres. The
number of acres of wheat sowed, 200 ; number of acres volunteered, 150. Estimated num-
ber of bushels of wheat raised this season, 4,000 ; number of acres of oats sowed, 30 ; num-
ber of acres volunteered, 30 ; estimated number of bushels, 1,000. Corn planted, 30 acres ;
potatoes, 40 acres, with the prospect of fair crops ; peas sowed, 1 acres. At the commence-
ment of harvest we were short of beef, and it was necessary to feed the working Indians
some of the peas, and after using what was needed, we thrashed out and put away 11,000
pounds. Number of acres of beans, 10 ; carrots, 5 ; crop very light.

The Indians on the reserve number six hundred and fifty. They are contented and work
readily and willingly. They have done all the labor in harvesting and thrashing, only re-
quiring the assistance of the employes to see that the machines are kept in running order.

Number of horses owned by government, 8 ; mules, 7 ; and two yoke of oxen ; hardly
sufficient to put in the crops and do all the work necessary to be done on the reserve. Num-.

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

ber of swine, 30 head ; cattle, 30 head ; and it will be necessary to make additional pur-
chases of beef to feed the Indians until the necessary supply can be raised on the reserve. I
would recommend that a band of cows be purchased, so that we can raise our own stock.

I have received blank forms of statistics of education. There never has been anything
done in this part of the State to improve the moral or intellectual condition of the Indians.
I think that a good school would be a benefit to the younger Indians, as they learn quite
readily, and would soon learn to read and write.

The sanitary condition of the Indians is about the same as usual. The number of deaths
is about twelve, and the number of births the same.

An abundance will be raised this year for the subsistence of the Indians on the reserve,
and Avhen the government once gets possession of the entire valley, so as to exclude all
white men except the necessary employes, they will have no further trouble with the Indians.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ROBERT L. STOCKTON,
Indian Agent, Hoopa Valley Rcserce.
Hon. CHARLES MALTBY,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

ROUND VALLEY INDIAN RESERVANION,

August 10, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to submit herewith my annual report of the condition of affairs
pertaining to the Indian service on the Round Valley reservation.

There are now on the reservation over one thousand Indians, according to a late census,
of the following tribes :

Names of tribes.

Men.

Women.

Boys.

Girls.

Total.

Nylackee and Trinity River

124

187

361

Eel River

Pitt River

196

Cow Cow.

110

238

Yuca

103

242

Total

386

488

1 063

The Indians, though coming from different parts of the State, and speaking a diversity
of languages, have been peaceably disposed among themselves, generally happy and con-
tented, and sufficiently industrious and obedient to meet the necessities of our farming ope-
rations. Their health has been generally good. They have been well fed, the reservation
having produced for the last year more food than was necessary for their subsistence. The
only or principal drawback to their personal welfare and comfort has been the insufficiency
of clothing, the quantity provided having been wholly inadequate to their wants. The
clothing shipped last fall by Commissioner Dole was about enough to furnish one-fourth of
the Indians with a suit each. In addition thereto, however, Superintendent Maltby has,
during the present year, furnished a liberal amount of clothing and other supplies, which
have contributed greatly to their well-being, and enabled them to get along without much
absolute suffering.

The reservation is now in good farming condition, the fences, houses, and other improve-
ments having been kept in good order and greatly improved during the year.

The following estimate of produce for the present year is based upon the probable yield
of crops, judging from their present appearance :

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDED Y.

Estimated yield.

Acres
sowed.

Remarks.

Wheat

9,000 bushels.

2,500 bushels.
4,000 bushels.
6,000 bushels.
3,000 bushels.
220 tons....
40 tons
50 tons
60 tons
75 tons
30 bushels.
300 bushels.

500

350
100
200
40
300
5
5
6
5
4
10
5
15
15
2

25 acres cut for Lay, 75 acres killed by
late frost and destroyed by freshet.
100 acres cut for hay.

About 1,000 bushels issued to Indians
green.

Crops light.
Failed seed bad.

Planted this year.

Barley

Oats

orn ....... ......

Potatoes ......

Hay

Turnips, flat. . .

Turnips, ruta-baga
Carrots

Beets

Beans ......

Peas

Sor"hum

"Watermelons ...... .

20,000...

Pumpkins and squashes
Grapevines

30 000 . .

1,362

The Indians and employe's have made 16,000 shingles ; and the following buildings have
been erected : one barn, 60 feet by 46 ; two granaries, 30 feet by 30 each ; addition to old bam,
24 feet by 25; addition to kitchen, 12 feet by 18; besides which a new roof has been put on
the dwelling-house.

I would solicit the serious and early attention of the department to the propriety of pur-
chasing some stock for the reservation, and would respectfully recommend that enough cattle
be purchased to admit of furnishing from the increase what meat may be required by the
Indians, and the work-oxen that will be needed from time to time for farming purposes.

The Mendocino reservation, as you are aware, was abandoned some time since, but no
effort has been made to remove the Indians, as they were considered better off there than they
would be here. The spot where they are located is the original home of most of the Indians,
arid they are much attached to it. They are few in number, and are living peaceably with
the settlers in the neighborhood, who employ many of them on their farms, enabling them to
earn a livelihood and provide themselves with clothing. They subsist largely on fish and
clams, which are very plenty in that locality. Their principal want is breadstuff, and I have
furnished them with wheat raised at this place. I will continue to care for them and give
them what assistance they may require.

I deem it very important to the success of the service in my agency that, in case the pur-
chase uf the improvements of all the settlers in the valley, as proposed by the bill introduced
at the last session of Congress, is not made, immediate steps be taken to gain possession
of all the land and improvements in the northern portion of the valley, say from the division
line between townships 22 and 23, north, to the summit of the mountains, as proposed
originally by Superintendent Hanson. There are only about four settlers within the tract
named, and the cost of the improvements would be exceedingly small, while the benefits to
be derived would be very great. At present there are settlers on nearly every side of the
reservation farm, while if the proposed purchase were made, it would be bounded on the
north, east, and west by the mountains, and only open to settlers on the south.

The land occupied by these settlers is very rich, and would add materially to the productive
capacity of the reservation, while the constant annoyance we suffer from our neighbors' stock,
the breaking down offences, &c., would be avoided.

The more completely the Indians are cut off from contact with the whites, the more har-
monious and successful will be the working of the reservation system. Again, by extending
our line to the summit of the mountains to the north, the haunts of the notorious " buckskin
men," or kidnappers, in the small valleys or on the mountains would be under our control, and
they would no longer be able to molest us with such ease. In fact, I regard it indispensable
to the welfare of the Indians under my charge and to the success of the service that this
purchase be made.

Justice to the employe's of the reservation demands that I should say, in their behalf, that
they have performed much valuable labor, and faithfully discharged their duty to the gov-
ernment.

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

B. L. FAIRFIELD,
Indian Agent, Round Valley Reservation.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.
7 c i

98 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 19.

TULE RIVER FARM, August 17, 1866.

SIR : That the Indians at this farm can by proper management be made to perform the
labor required to grow their subsistence, the past year fully demonstrates. Our harvests are
abundant, the Indians, under the direction of white men, having performed the labor. Besides
the usual farm work during the past year, Indian labor constructed a road to the mountains,
(some twenty-five miles to the timber,) and constructed a water ditch of five miles, at a cost
of 2,000 days' labor. Whether they are capable of any improvement, beyond being made
useful as laborers, is extremely doubtful. Their character is the most despicable, and, I may
safely say, in an experience of over four years I never saw among them an indication of a
virtue. A cruel, cowardly vagabond, given to thieving, gambling, drunkenness, and all
that is vicious, without one redeeming trait, is a true picture of the California Digger ; they
only respect what they fear.

No schools have been attempted here, nor any religious instruction, nor could I recom-
mend the expenditure of any money on such hopeless subjects.

The Indians are decreasing quite rapidly, and must soon become extinct. Whether they
will decrease more rapidly, supported and protected in large bodies, as here, or allowed to run
the mountains, suffering occasionally from hunger, and liable to be ill-treated by whites
scarcely more human than they, is a question difficult correctly to decide. Could they be
kept entirely from contact with the whites, (which would be quite impossible,) on a permanent
reservation, it would be better for them, no doubt. But I cannot refrain from saying that
this place (its uncertain tenure and lack of system) has been and must continue to be of
doubtful benefit to the Indians.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. J. HOFFMAN,
Special Agent, Tule River Farm.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 20.

SMITH RIVER INDIAN RESERVE, September 9, 1866.

SIR : Having been appointed special Indian agent in consequence of the removal of Mr.
Bryson, late agent of the above-named reserve, I have the honor of submitting an annual re-
port, as desired in your last communication, under date of August 14, 1866.

Having, as stated, been appointed simply as special agent, and not having charge of the
reserve quite two months, I cannot make a very extended report, and will confine myself
only to statistics and general farming interests connected with the reserve. This reserve is
located on Smith river, three miles from its mouth or entrance to the Pacific ocean, being in
Del Norte county, situated in the northeast part of the State near the Oregon line, and west
of the coast range of mountains.

The locality of the reserve is most admirably situated, being a mild and healthful climate,
an abundance of arable land of unsurpassed fertility, convenient to timber for fuel, fencing, or
building purposes ; also an abundant supply of water either from springs on the place or from
small streams that flow from the mountains. In this particular locality there seems an inex-
haustible supply of small fish called smelts. The Indians are very fond of them. They
catch them in the surf with dip-nets in great quantities in the summer and fall months, and
cart them to the reserve by wagon loads. Also the Crescent City, Lagoon, Burnt Ranches, and
Smith River Indians, numbering about five hundred, carry away annually large quantities,
constituting one of their chief supplies of food during the winter months. In addition large
quantities of salmon are caught at the mouth of Smith river, which are much, desired by the
Indians as well as white residents. /

I find,upon taking as careful a survey as possible, about four hundred Indians on the reserve,
and they are known as the Wylackees and Humboldt tribes. The Huinboldts, as a general
thing, are superior in intelligence ; they learn to speak the English language more readily, and
are generally more expert in taking hold quickly and learning the ways of farming in all its
particulars.

I am satisfied there has been much improvement among the Indians since the agency has
been established in the valley. They desire to live and dress better, and are more cleanly about
their buildings and in person. Their demeanor in many respects indicates a wish to elevate
themselves to the standard of the white population in matters pertaining to civilization. The
Indian women likewise are generally improving ; most of them cut their own clothing, and their

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 99

garments show much skill in cutting as well as in making up. I have observed, since I have
been on the reservation, a desire on the part of some to learn to spell and read. I think, per-
haps, if a school were established it might prove beneficial.

Relating to the clothing of the Indians, I would here mention they are at present in a de-
plorable condition ; many of them have not clothing sufficient to cover their nakedness. I
cannot urge too strongly the importance of supplying them with necessary clothing as early
as possible, as the fall rains will soon commence. Justice requires they should be well sup-
plied for comfort as well as for health.

Within the time that I have acted as special Indian agent on the reserve there has been
some uneasiness on the part of the Indians. They are under the firm belief that the govern-
ment does not intend to purchase the valley lands for a reserve, and during the past year
have expvess'ed much discontent and a strong disposition to return to their former locality in
Humboldt county. I have every reason to believe their want of faith in the intention of our
government respecting them is the only cause of so many of them absconding during the
months of July and August. With this exception everything is peaceable and quiet on the
reserve no difficulties of any importance having occurred either among themselves or with
other Indians in the vicinity of the reservation. .

The farming utensils are much worn, and in the event the Indians should remain here and
the service continue, a new supply of many articles will be an absolute necessity.

The reserve is well supplied with live stock, consisting of horses, cattle, and swine. They
are all in a thriving condition. So far I have not been under the necessity of killing many
beef cattle for the Indians, from the fact of the large supply of fish being procured from the
sea- coast.

Concerning the crops I find an abundance of everything that is desired to subsist the In-
dians for another year, consisting as follows : 85 acres of wheat, unthreshed, which will yield
15 bushels per acre ; peas, 45 acres, yielding 33 bushels per acre, ungathered ; oats, 100 acres,
which will yield 50 bushels per acre, partially threshed ; timothy hay, 40 acres, all cut and
mowed away, estimated at 2\ tons per acre ; potatoes, 85 acres, yielding 160 bushels per acre,
ungathered. There is in addition to the above 15 acres containing carrots, turnips, and other
garden vegetables. They are looking well, and will yield a fair crop.

With reference to the sanitary condition of the Indians, I am confident that it has very
much improved under the care and management of Dr. F. M. Wright, resident physician. I
feel that he is entitled to much credit for his services and interest manifested in their behalf..
For further information relating thereto I refer you to his annual report, herewith respectfully,
submitted.

I remain your obedient servant,

G. KINGSBURY,

Special Indian Agent.

Hon. C. MALTBY,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

No. 21.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS,

San Francisco, CaL, May 25, 1866.

Sm : I have the honor to infonn the honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs that I re-
ceived from Agent Bryson, Smith River reservation, under date of April 24, a letter, a copy of
which is enclosed, marked A, informing this office that a murder had been committed on the
reservation by a Humboldt Indian on the person of another Indian of the same tribe, and
that he had made his escape on committing the act ; that efforts were being made for his ar-
rest, and that he, the agent, was of the opinion that the Indian should be hung on being
captured, but that he would await instructions from this office as to the action that would be
taken as to his punishment.

Under date May 3, I advised Agent Bryson of the receipt of his letter, and instructed him
by letter, a cpy of which is enclosed marked B, that on the arrest of the Indian he must be
delivered to the civil authorities for trial and punishment; that the superintendent nor Indian
agent had any power or authority to inflict capital punishment on Indians for offences com-
mitted on reservations.

On the 19th instant I received from Agent Bryson a letter under date May 8, a copy of
which is enclosed, marked 0, stating that the Indian before mentioned who had committed the
murder had been captured, and that he had been executed by hanging, in presence of all the
Indians of the county, and concluded his letter by hopmg that his action in this matter would
meet with my approval.

In answer by letter under date of May 22, a copy of which is enclosed, marked D, I in-
formed Agent Brysou that his action in this matter could not be approved by the superintend-
ent, and that copies of the correspondence relating to this subject would be forwarded to the

100 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs. The enclosed copies of letters, marked A to D,
inclusive, contain all the correspondence on the subject above referred to, and are respectfully
submitted.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

SMITH RIVER RESERVATION,

April 24, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to inform you that on Sunday morning-, April 22, a fight occurred
in the Humboldt Indian ranch, which resulted in the death of one Indian by the unjustifiable
interference and act of a third Indian.

The circumstances were these : Some ten weeks ago an Indian and his squaw had a little
fuss, and he was correcting her, I suppose a little roughly, when another squaw interfered
and used some very unfriendly language to the Indian who whipped his squaw, which caused
him to strike her and hurt her severely. I was- in Crescent City when this occurred. Some
days afterwards they had a general consultation, and agreed on terms of settlement, and I
supposed it was all. fixed up without my interference, but the squaw that interfered and got
hurt was not willing to settle until her brother drew blood from the Indian that struck und
hurt her. When, on Sunday morning 1 last, her brother met this Indian and challenged him
to fight, as he was unarmed, he told him he did not want to fight, when the Indian that chal-
lenged him made at him and struck him with a knife, inflicting a serious but not dangerous
wound on the back. His friend, seeing that he was cut and the blood flowing down. his back,
took a knife in his hand and ran after this Indian, and came up to him when some others had
caught him and were parleying- over the matter, stepped up lightly behind him and struck
him with a knife and killed him almost instantly ; then ran away and made his escape to the
woods, and has not yet been caught.

My own opinion, formed from experience, is that this Indian should be hung, and I believe
that the peace, safety, and correct discipline on the reservation require it, but in the absence
of law and instruction in cases of this nature, I do not feel inclined to take all responsibility
upon myself. I think full instructions should be given me, and some precedent established
for my guidance in the future, in case similar events should occur.

The military are the proper ones to conduct the execution of an Indian, but General Mc-
Dowell's order last year forbids any military officer to execute an Indian, and comma'uds him
to turn them over to the civil authorities. This order should be modified so as to allow com-
manders of posts established on Indian reservations to conduct the execution of an Indian
when called upon by the Indian department so to do, if, in their judgment, the punishment is
just.

Heretofore I have acted on my own responsibility in cases of this kind, the military con-
curring, and had in one case an Indian executed, and I know that it had a very soothing
influence over the balance of them, and I believe it to be as essential to preserve order and
discipline on the reservation to execute an Indian occasionally as it is to furnish them with
food and clothing, but I prefer some authority on which to predicate my acts.

I shall not take any decisive action in this case until I hear from you, unless in my opinion
our safety require it. The Indian has not yet been caught, (he is lying in the woods,) but
I think he will be soon.

The idea of turning over Indians to the civil authorities for trial and punishment I think is
wrong. The reservation Indian is under the protection of the general government. The res-
ervation is his home, and there he should receive his rewards and punishments.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM BRYSON,
Indian Agent, Smith River Reservation,

Hon. CHAS. MALTBY,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS,
San Francisco, California, May 3, 1866.

SlR : Your letter of April 24th ultimo, giving information of the murder of a Humboldt
Indian on the reservation under your charge by an Indian of the same tribe, is this morning
received ; and you further state that, in the absence of law and instructions in cases of this

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 101

nature, you do not feel inclined to take all the responsibility on yourself, and ask that in-
structions should be given you, and some precedent established for your guidance in the fu-
ture should similar events occur, and, for the peace, safety, and correct discipline on the reser-
vation, this Indian who committed the murder should be hung.

In answer, I would state that in cases of murder by an Indian or Indians in this State, cap-
ital punishment can only be inflicted by and through the civil authorities. The law must
take the same course as in case a white man had committed the act, with this difference in
case of the Indian Indian evidence or testimony is admissible. The superintendent, agent
on the reservation, nor the military authorities have any power or authority by law to inflict
capital punishment in cases of this kind, and the civil authorities of your county should, on
your complaint that a murder has been committed by an Indian, as you have stated, have
him arrested, tried, and punished, or, if you have arrested him, he can be delivered to the
civil authorities for trial.

The civil jurisdiction in cases of this kind may not be the best so far as the punishment of
the Indian is concerned, but on Indian reservations in this State the civil laws of the State
have jurisdiction, and for the agents to ignore that jurisdiction by taking a different course
would subject them or him to penalties for a violation of the laws, which could not be advised
or approved by the superintendent.

You must be the judge of the criminality and of the punishment which should be inflicted,
and if justice and the safety and the preservation of good order on the reservation demand it,
the criminal should be delivered to the officers of your county if in your custody ; and if not,
measures should be taken for his arrest and conviction. Indians located on lands of which
the government has no title are subject to the laws of the State, although they may be under
the care and charge of government agents, and for capital offences must be convicted and
punished by said laws. In Indian territory, or on reservations located on government lands,
they may be tried and convicted in United States courts.
Yours, respectfully,

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

WM. BRYSON, Esq.,

Indian Agent, Smith River Reservation, California.

SMITH RIVER RESERVATION, CALIFORNIA,

May 8, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to transmit herewith my report of Indians for the month of April,
1866.

The Indian referred to in my letter some days ago that committed the murder I have since
executed. He declared his intention to kill any one that undertook to arrest him. As Mr.
White and myself were walking out one evening we came upon him and tried to catch him.
He got away from us and ran. White ran after him and overtook him ; the Indian struck
at him with a knife, cutting him on the neck over the artery; his shirt collar and cravat alone
saved his life.

I then told the Indians they must catch him. The Smith River Indians volunteered to
help. He was finally caught by the reservation Indians and brought in, and I hung him in
the presence of all the Indians in the county, and restored peace to the reservation, which
would have become much disturbed had I not pursued the course I did. Indians sometimes
have to be dealt with severely and promptly. I made no mention of the execution in my
report of Indians, as I did not know whether others could see the necessity for it that I did,
and thought it as well to say nothing about it to the authorities at Washington.

I am convinced I did what was best for the service and the Indians generally, and had I
not pursued the course I did, I am satisfied I would have had trouble.

Hoping my action in this matter will meet with your approval, I am, very respectfully,
your obedient servant,

WILLIAM BRYSON,
United States Indian Agent, Smith River Reservation.

Hon. CHAS. MALTBY,

> Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, CALIFORNIA,

San Francisco, May 22, 1866

SIR : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication under date of May 8th
instant, in which this office is advised that you have executed, by hang-ing, the Indian guilty
of murder referred to in your letter to this office under date of April 24th ultimo.

102 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

In your letter of above date you stated that you would take rio action as to the punishment
of the Indian until you were instructed from this office. I think you could not have received
my instructions, judging from the action you have taken in this matter.

Your letter asking instructions was received May 3d instant, and instructions were for-
Avarded by mail same date, advising you that the criminal must be delivered to the civil au-
thorities for trial and punishment.

I have no doubt, from the statements and information contained in your letters of the 24th
of April ultimo and 8th of May instant, that the Indian referred to was guilty and merited
the punishment he received, but, in the absence of law and authority for the action and course
you have taken in this matter, you have assumed a responsibility which I could not have
advised, and which action cannot be approved by this office.

Copies of the correspondence relative to this subject will be forwarded to the honorable
Commissioner of Indian Affairs by next steamer.
Very respectfully,

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, California.
WILLIAM BRYSON, Esq.,

Indian Agent, Smith River Reservation, California.

No 22.

Los ANGELOS, CALIFORNIA,

August 5, 1866.

SIR : As this is the time for making my annual report in relation to Indian affairs, I beg
leave to make the following statement :

In consequence of the very small amount which has been furnished for the Indians in the
southern portion of the State very little has been done for them, and except the Mission In-
dians and Cahuillas nothing. The condition of the Mission Indians has changed very little
since my last report. The difficulties at that time existing have quieted down, and the au-
thority of the chief, Manuel Cote, appears to be respected.

The small amount of seeds and farming tools furnished during the last year very materially
benefited and assisted the Indians in raising their own subsistence, and were it not for cer-
tain persons living in their vicinity and among them who furnish them with intoxicating
liquors, and in return get nearly all they raise, the Indians might live quite comfortably. In
fact, the selling of whiskey and influence of lawless whites causes all the difficulties that exist
among the Indians. I can suggest no remedy, except a reservation, from which all lawless
persons could be excluded. There has been some trouble among the Cahuillas, and the diffi-
culties can nearly all be traced to the influence of bad white men.

I have not visited Cabeson valley since last spring, but am informed the Indians made good
use of the few seeds and tools distributed to them, and I can only renew my suggestion that
a reservation be established in that valley, and that a practical and experienced man be
placed in charge. The expenditure would be comparatively small, and I have no doubt in
two years the Indians would be self-sustaining.

The Chimchinves on the Colorado river, and the Pah-Utes of the desert, have been quite
troublesome during the last year. Several persons have been killed by them, and many animals
stolen. These Indians are composed of roving bands, having no fixed habitation, but chang-
ing from one watering place to another on the desert, in order to pick up a precarious living.
I can suggest no other course to pursue with these wandering tribes than to gather them to-
gether in a reservation at some point on the Colorado river and compel them to stay there.
They will be much more difficult to manage than the other Indians west of the Colorado, but
I think by judicious management they can, in a short time, nearly, or quite, support them-
selves. These Indians have lately made a foray and driven off the government stock from
the military post at Camp Cady, on the Mojave river. They were pursued by the soldiers,
when they turned and gave battle, killing three of the soldiers and mortally wounding one,
the remainder being obliged to retreat. Re-enforcements have been sent from Drum bar-
racks, but the damage is done, and it will cost the government more to replace the property
stolen and chastise the Indians than it would to have fed them all on a reservation for a year.

The Chimchinves are undoubtedly a branch of the Pah-Ute tribe, and I am satisfied they
are concerned in running off the stock from Camp Cady. They have been for some time at
war with the Mojave Indians on the Colorado river, and are in a state of starvation. They
have no means of subsistence except lizards, desert rats and mice, and occasionally a jack
rabbit, if they can kill it. I have in a former report represented the condition of these In-
dians, and suggested the only remedy I can see. I have had no authority or means of pro-
viding for them, and it would be of no use to go among them without both. I think there
would be no difficulty in getting nearly or quite all of them on to a reservation on the Colo-
rado, and when once there, by proper management, they can be kept and taught to work.

Accompanying this you will find an estimate of the personal property, land cultivated, and
other matters relating to the Mission Indians. I am sorry to say they have been sadly neg-

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 103

lected, although, in point of intelligence and industry, they are far ahead of any other In-
dians in California, and I would recommend that schools be established among them at an
early day.

Trusting that my report may meet your approbation, I have the honor to be, very respect-
fully, your obedient servant,

J. Q. A. STANLEY,

Special Indian Agent.
CHARLES MALTBY, Esq.

Superintendent Indian A fairs, San Francisco, California.

No. 23.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, CALIFORNIA,

San Francisco, March, 1866.

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of date February 13, ulti-
mo, relative to the establishment of schools on the Indian reservations in this State, requesting
report and estimate from the office on this subject. Also enclosed copy of extract from a re-
port adopted by the Presbyterian Synod of the Pacific, relative to the establishment of schools
on each of the reservations in California.

The information desired in your letter embraces, first, what kind of schools manual-labor
or day schools should be established ; second, the cost of establishing and maintaining schools
of either description on each reservation. In reference to the first proposition I would recom-
mend the establishment of manual-labor schools on the several reservations as soon as practi-
cable. I am fully satisfied that from schools of this kind the Indians will derive more real
and lasting benefit than from day schools. But little real benefit will the young Indians re-
ceive from any efforts to educate them unless, in connexion with those efforts, they are in-
structed in habits of industry, neatness, and economy, those being taught in connexion with
their education, which can only be done effectually in manual-labor schools. Much good
may be anticipated, and the desired results, so far as effected, will be of real and lasting ben-
efit to them. The condition of the Indians on this coast, far behind in intelligence and ad-
vancement many of the Indian tribes on the Atlantic slope, will not warrant us in expecting
that success, at first, in the establishment of schools that otherwise might be expected and
desired, but the duty of the government is no less to make the effort and attempt to elevate
and improve the condition of the Indians in this State, over which it has assumed supervision
and care. It is a work that will require money, time, and perseverance before much good
can be effected ; but of the good results I have no doubt, if proper and persistent efforts are
made. I shall, therefore, in making my estimates of the cost of establishing and maintaining
schools on the different reservations, do so with reference to the establishment of manual-
labor schools, as soon as the conditions of the several reservations will admit, advising
that day schools be established at Round Valley and Hoopa Valley reservations, and the
employment of a male and female teacher a man and his wife preferred for each, as soon
as the necessary appropriation is made. Estimates will be made, as requested, for Smith
River and Tule River reservations, but for the want of suitable buildings at thdse agencies
no schools can be established until the title to the land is obtained by the government and
their location permanently fixed.

I estimate the cost of establishing and maintaining a school at Smith River agency as fol-
lows: For the erection of school house, eight hundred dollars ; erection of buildings for teach-
ers' residence and scholars, twelve hundred dollars; furniture for the same, three hundred
dollars; salary for two teachers for six months of the fiscal year ending June 30, J8G7, at
six hundred dollars each per annum, six hundred dollars.

At Hoopa Valley agency, repairs and additions on building for school-house, twelve hundred
dollars; for house for residence of teachers and scholars, four hundred dollars ; for furniture
for same, four hundred dollars ; for salary of two teachers, as above, six hundred dollars.

The transportation of goods to this agency is expensive, which increases the amount
necessary for furniture. Buildings in this agency are erected of sufficient accommodations
for the residence of teachers and scholars, and for a school-house, some repairs and additions
being necessary.

At Round Valley agency: For building school-house, twelve hundred dollars; for house
for residence of teachers and scholars, fourteen hundred dollars ; for furniture for same, three
hundred dollars ; for salary for two teachers, as above, six hundred dollars.

Should the government obtain full possession of the valley and the improvements of the
settlers, which is desired, buildings of sufficient capacity for the residence of teachers and
scholars and for a school-house will be obtained, and no cost will be incurred in buildings or
houses for that purpose.

At Tule River agency : For the erection of school-house, eight hundred dollars ; for the
building of house for the residence of teachers and scholars, twelve hundred dollars; furni-
ture for the same, three hundred dollars; for salary of two teachers, as above, six hundred
dollars; the books and clothing of scholars, six hundred dollars; making a total of eleven
thousand three hundred dollars. No estimate is made for the subsistence of teachers and
scholars, anticipating that they will be subsisted from the products of the reservations. The

104 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY.

estimates have been made with due regard to economy, and with the belief that the necessary
buildings can be erected at the cost of the amounts estimated, with the labor which may be
obtained from employes and Indians. Estimates for the salary of teachers have been made
for six months of the year only, as some time must intervene after the appropriations are
made before the necessary buildings can be prepared.

I have had, since the receipt of your letter, an interview with Rev. John Edwards, of
Gilroy, stated clerk of the Presbyterian Synod of the Pacific. He expressed himself de-
cidedly in favor of manual-labor schools, and of the imperative duty of government to
establish schools for the amelioration of the Indians on this coast. He will give his co-
operation in this worthy object, and his experience in conducting Indian schools on the
Atlantic side of the mountains will be of value in this direction.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

Estimate of amount of funds necessary for the establishment and maintaining schools on each
of the Indian reservations in Calif ornia for the fiscal year ending June 30, 18b"7.

'SMITH RIVER AGENCY.

For school-house $800 00

For residence of teachers and scholars 1, 200 00

For furniture 300 00

For salary of two teachers, (six months) 600 00

2,900 00

HOOPA VALLEY AGENCY.

For repairs on school-house, &c $400 00

For furniture 400 00

For salary of two teachers, (six months) 600 00

1,400 00

ROUND VALLEY AGENCY.

For school-house $1 , 200 00

For residence for teachers and scholars 1, 400 00

For furniture 300 00

For salary of two teachers, (six months) 600 00

3,500 00

TULE RIVER AGENCY.

For school-house $800 CO

For residence for teachers and scholars 1, 200 00

For furniture \ 300 00

For salary of two teachers, (six months) .'. 600 00

2,900 00

RECAPITULATION.

Total for Smith Rivsr agency 2, 900 00

Total for Hoopa Valley agency 1,400 00

Total for Round Valley agency 3,500 00

Total for Tule River agency 2, 900 00

For clothing, books, &c. , for scholars 600 00

11,300 00

I believe the foregoing estimate to be correct.
Respectfully submitted :

CHARLES MALTBY,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 105

No. 24.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,

Office of Indian Affairs, June 26, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt ot your letter of the 8th ultimo in rela-
tion to Indian reservations in California. Before proceeding to answer specifically the in-
quiries contained in your letter, I think it proper, in order that you may have a correct
understanding of the whole matter, to give a brief history in reference to the establishment
of reservations for Indian purposes in that State. The information in possession of this
office, received from time to time from the superintendents and agents in California, is not as
specific as could be desired, being general and diffuse in its character, but from it I am able
to give the following:

Commencing in 1853, (for it is not thought to be necessary to go back of that date for the
purpose in view,) I find that on the 13th of April of that year, Edward F. Beale, superin-
tendent of Indian affairs for California, was instructed by Hon. R. McClelland, then Secre-
tary of the Interior, to proceed to carry out the provisions of the act of Congress approved
March 3, 1853, (Statutes at Large, vol. 10, page 238,) which provided for five military
reservations for Indian purposes, not to exceed 25,000 acres each, and appropriated $250,000
for the purpose of subsisting and removing the Indians to such reservations, and for their
protection. In August, of the same year, Superintendent Beale reported great difficulty in
the way on account of the conflict with Spanish grants and pre-emption claims in localities
that were desirable for reservation purposes. On the 28th of August, 1854, he reports that
one reservation had been established at Tejon pass, to which about 700 Indians had been
removed. Passing over a period of some two years, during which time various reports were
received in reference to Indian affairs in California, general in their character, on 'the 4th of
September, 1856, Superintendent Henley, the successor of Superintendent Beale, reports
that four permanent reservations had been established, viz: the Tejon, in the southwestern
part of the State ; the Nome Lackee, in Colusa county ; the Klamath, on a river of same
name in the northern part of the State ; the Mendocino, fifty miles south of Cape Mendocino,
on the shores of the Pacific. In addition to these he reports several temporary reserves or
farms, upon which small numbers of Indians have been collected ; among these are Fresno
and King's River and Nomecult, (Round Valley.) On the 15th of August, 1857, Superin-
tendent Henley reports five permanent reservations, Fresno River being added to the four
above mentioned.

In J858 Mr. G. Bailey was appointed as special agent to investigate the condition of the
Indian reservations in California ; and Commissioner Greenwood, in 1859, referring to the
report of Agent Bailey, speaks of the "unsatisfactory condition of things in California;"
"that there is a greater number of reservations than is necessary," and recommends the
abandonment of the present and the substitution of a different plan of operations.

The act of Congress approved June 19, 1860, (Statutes at Large, vol. 12, page 57,)
authorized the Secretary of the Interior to divide California into two districts, and in ac-
cordance therewith the State was divided into the northern and southern Indian districts, and
agents were appointed for each.

Commissioner Dole, in his annual report for 1861, remarks as follows: "Within the
southern district of the State not a single reservation exists that is not claimed or owned
by the whites, nor is there one that is at all adequate in extent to the wants of the Indians.
They appear to be simply farms a few hundred acres in extent, about and upon which the
Indians are expected by hundreds, and in some instances by thousands, to congregate, and
from which a small portion of their wants are supplied. Within the northern district the
reservations are owned by government, but, with the exception, perhaps, of that of Round Val-
ley, they, too,, are insufficient in size, and, in consequence of their occupation under one pre-
text and another by whites, are of no more real utility to the Indians than those of the south-
ern district."

Agent Wentworth, for the southern district, reports, July 14, 1861,' that Fresno River res-
ervation has been abandoned ; and Agent Hanson, for the northern district, reports, in July
of the same year, virtually to the same effect in reference to Nome Lackee, "that there is no
land enclosed and under cultivation, buildings are neglected," &c. ; that a portion of the res-
ervation has been taken possession of by whites ; and on the 3lst of December of the same
year he reports the entire loss of Klamath, as a reservation, by a freshet which carried off
the soil and covered it with sand.

In ]862 Agent Hanson reports in favor of a reservation at Smith river, in the extreme
northwestern portion of the State ; and on May 3d, of the same year, by direction of the Hon.
C. B. Smith, then Secretary of the Interior, the Commissioner of the General Land Office
ordered its survey and reservation from sale.

On the 3d of December, J862, Agent Wentworth reported that he had laid off a reserva-
tion at Owen's river ; and on the 24th of July, 1863, he reports that Tejon reservation having
been patented by the United States to late Superintendent Beale and other parties, the In-
dians on that reservation had been removed to Tule River farm.

106 CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCE

The act of Congress approved April 8, 1864, (Statutes at Large, pamphlet copy, first session
38th Congress, page 40,) provides for a superintendent of Indian affairs for California, for
the setting apart of not exceeding four tracts of land for Indian reservations, and for the sur-
vey into subdivisions and sale of reservations to be abandoned. In accordance with the
provisions of this act a selection has been made of Hoopa Valley reservation, located on the
Trinity river, near its junction with the Klamath, in the northern part of the State.

My report of the 9th ultimo, returning to you certain papers submitted by Hon. J. Bid-
well and other members of Congress from California, to which you are respectfully referred,
and the foregoing statement, furnish a reply to most of the interrogatories contained in your
letter of the 8th ultimo ; but in order to answer the same more fully, I will consider each
reservation that has been referred to, giving, as nearly as possible, the history and present
condition of the same :

Round valley, This valley was first selected for Indian purposes by Superintendent Henley,
in 1856, and by order of the then Secretary of the Interior, dated May 3, 1860, the entire val-
ley was surveyed and reserved for Indian purposes. All the reports on file and information
in possession of this office speak in the highest terms of the fertility of this valley, and its
adaptability for the purposes of an Indian reservation.

Of the exact nature of the conflicting claims to any part of this valley it is impossible for
me to state. Superintendent Maltby, in his report of September 15, 1865, says : "Nearly
halt of this land is occupied by citizens who claim to have entered upon and made their im-
provements before the survey and location of the land for reservation purposes." Definite
information in regard to the nature of these claims can probably be obtained through the
General Land Office. The superintendent speaks very favorably in his last report in refer-
ence to the condition of the Indians who are there at present.

Smith River reservation. By direction of the Secretary of the Interior, dated May 3, 1862,
all lands embraced within the limits of this reservation not occupied by pre-emption were
withdrawn from sale for Indian purposes ; but by reports from the superintendent it appears
that a majority of the valuable lands are now occupied or claimed by whites, and that the
government pays a yearly rent of 1,948 in coin, or its equivalent, to parties for the use of
land.

Superintendent Maltby encloses with his report of April 10, 1866, (herewith, marked "A,")
an estimate of the value of lands necessary to be purchased for reservation purposes, amount-
ing to $38,000 in coin, or its equivalent. Of the nature of the conflicting claims in this res-
ervation definite information can probably be obtained through the General Land Office. I
have been unofficially informed that some of the lands within the limits of the reservation
have been patented to white settlers since the same were withdrawn from sale by direction
of the Secretary of the Interior, dated May 3, 1862.

L Hoopa valley. This reservation was selected by Superintendent Maltby, in the fall of
1864, and possession was taken under an arrangement with the settlers that their improve-
ments should be purchased. The $60,000 appropriated by the act of March 3, 1865, (Stat-
utes at Large, Pamphlet Laws, second session 38th Congress, page 538,) to pay for improve-
ments on this reservation, amounting, as per appraisements, to $59,959 55, has not yet been
disbursed ; but, whether the reservation is abandoned or not, justice will require that the
settlers be paid for their improvements, as the government has had possession and use of
them for more than a year past. This reservation has never been surveyed by the govern-
ment.

Klamath. This reservation, described as follows, viz : a strip of country commencing at
the coast of the Pacific ocean, and extending one mile in width on each side of the Klamath
river, and up the same twenty miles, was approved by the President on the 16th of Novem-
ber, 1855, as one of the two reservations for the Indians in California, authorized by a clause
in the Indian appropriation act of 3d of March, 1855, (Statutes at Large, volume 10, page
699,) "with the provision, however, that upon a survey of the tract a sufficient quantity be
cut off from the upper end thereof to bring it within the limit of twenty -five thousand acres
authorized by law." This reservation has never been surveyed, and in 1861 nearly all of
the arable land was destroyed by a freshet, as herein before mentioned, rendering the reser-
vation worthless.

Mendocino The selection of this reservation was approved by the President of the Uni-
ted States May 22, 1856, described as follows, viz: "lying between the south bank of the
Noyo river, so as to include that river and a point one mile north of the mouth of Hale or
Bee-do-loc creek, and extending eastward from the coast for quantity, so as to include the
valleys beyond the first range of hills to the Coast mountains, conforming to their shape, and
to contain an area not exceeding twenty-five thousand acres of land." This reservation has
never been surveyed, and owing to its exposed position on the coast and the sterility of the soil,
which prevent the raising of crops, its abandonment has been determined upon, in accord-
ance with the recommendation of the superintendent. The only thing that makes it at all
' desirable for a reservation is the facility afforded the Indians for fishing. Under date of the
23d instant, the Commissioner of the General Land Office encloses to this office a letter from
the surveyor general of California, of the 28th of April last, who asks " whether or not the
lines of this reservation are to be surveyed and respected, should they come within the lines

CALIFORNIA SUPERINTENDENCY. 107

of extension of our public surveys ;" and the Commissioner of the General Land Office re-
quests to be informed "whether the interests of the Indian department require that the res-
ervation should be surveyed; if not, whether the same may revert to the public domain and
be surveyed as public lauds."

Superintendent Maltby, in his report of the 28th ultimo, (herewith, marked G,) states that
he has leased a portion of the reservation to E. J. Whipple, for eighteen months, from April,
1866, "subject to the approval of the Hon. Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and any action
that may be taken by the Secretary of the Interior or Congress with reference to the disposal
of the lands and improvements."

Nome Lackce. This reservation was located by Superintendent Henley about the 1st of
September, 1854, and was for some time used for Indian purposes, but for three or four years
past has been abandoned, and the government property therein has been destroyed. A por-
tion of it is claimed by whites. The lands are reported to be of fair quality, and afford
pasture for the cattle of 'the surrounding settlers.

Owen's River and Fresno reservations have long since been abandoned, and the claim of
the government to the same as Indian reservations relinquished.

Tejon or Sebastian reservation was abandoned in 1863, and the Indians were removed
therefrom to Tule River farm.

This reservation was surveyed in 1854, by the surveyor general of California, and was es-
timated to contain 75,000 acres. On the 25th of November, 1856. the Secretary of the In-
terior ordered its reduction to 25, 000 acres, in accordance with the provisions of the act of 3d
of March, 1855. Since that time the majority of this reservation as originally surveyed has
been patented by the United States to different parties claiming under Spanish grants, leav-
ing a small portion of the original area, irregular in shape, in regard to which this office does
riot possess sufficient information to correctly describe it.

Tule River. This is a farm of 1,280 acres, rented of Mr. Thomas P. Madden, of San Fran-
cisco, at a cost of $1,000 per annum.

After a careful examination of the subject, and from all the information I can obtain, I am
of the opinion that if possession of the entire limits of Round valley is obtained for Indian
purposes, it will be sufficient in extent and resources to accommodate all the Indians the gov-
ernment will ever be able to collect upon a reservation in northern California, and that in the
event of obtaining such possession all other reservations in the northern part of the State
should be abandoned and the Indians concentrated at Round valley.

I have received a communication from Hon. William Windom, chairman of the Committee
on Indian Affairs of the House of Representatives, dated the 19th ultimo, (herewith, marked
F,) transmitting a copy of a bill introduced into said House by Hon. J. Bid well, the pro-
visions of which, if passed, would secure this object. This bill provides for obtaining pos-
session of the whole of Round valley; for fixing its limits ; for the purchase of improvements
of settlers ; for the abandonment of other reservations in northern California; for the removal
of the Indians therein to Round valley, and appropriates $100,000 to enable the Secretary of
the Interior to carry its provisions into effect.

Since the foregoing was written a report has been received from Superintendent Maltby,
dated the 17th of April last, (herewith, marked E,) in reference to Klamath and Smith River
reservations. He corroborates the statements I have made in regard to the former, and re
peats his recommendations in favor of the purchase of lands and the permanent location of
the latter reservation, urging the peculiar features which make it desirable for Indian pur-
poses. It will be noticed in this report that the superintendent speaks incidentally of Round
valley as being free from some of the objections urged against Smith river.

The habits of the Indians should be considered in connexion with the proposition to aban-
don other reservations and concentrate the Indians at Round valley, those upon the coaat be-
ing accustomed to depend principally upon fishing for subsistence. This, however, has not
been considered a fatal objection with reference to the Indians now remaining at Mendocino
and Klamath, whom it is proposed to remove to Round valley.

The temporary expense attendant upon removing the Indians at Smith river to Round
valley, if this step were determined upon, would be small in comparison with that which
would ultimately be incurred if two separate reservations were to be maintained.

In the southern part of the State the Indians whom it will be necessary for the government
to provide for, except the Mission Indians, who were made the subject of communications
from this office of the 24th of April last and the 15th ultimo, can be accommodated and sus-
tained on a reservation which could be established by the purchase of Mr. Madden's farm,
(Tule river,) and the reservation of the adjacent, public lands, as recommended in the com-
munications of Superintendent Maltby of December 6, 1865, April 16 and April 20, 1866,
(herewith enclosed, marked B, C, and D.)

Should you approve of the establishment of such a reservation, I would respectfully sug-
gest the propriety of immediately withdrawing from sale such of the public lands as will
probably be required, to prevent the encroachment of white settlers, which experience shows
would be the inevitable result, if the proposition to establish such reservation should become
known in that locality.

In the absence of any additional legislation upon the subject, it is submitted whether the
act of Congress approved April 8, 1864, (Pamphlet Laws, 1st session 38th Congress, page 39,)

108 ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENCE

does not confer upon the department sufficient authority to carry into effect the propositions
advanced should the same be deemed advisable.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. N. COOLEY, Commissioner.
Hon. JAMES HARLAN,

Secretary of the Interior.

ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENT.

No. 25.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS FOR ARIZONA,
La Paz, January 16, le-66.

SIR : I have the honor to report the result of my observations during a recent visit to
Prescott, whither I went in compliance with a request made by Brigadier General Mason, com-
manding department of Arizona. Wishing to be present at an anticipated interview with
the chiefs of several bands of Indians living in the vicinity of the White mountains, for
whom Captain Ledyard, with a detachment of thirty men, soldiers and citizens, had been
sent out by the general, I remained at Prescott until the 30th ultimo. Captain Ledyard left
on the 1st of November, taking thirty-five days' rations, expecting to return by the 1st of De-
cember. No tidings were received from him till the 20th of December, when he was reported
with his command at Fort McDowell, having suffered greatly from want of provisions, sub-
sisting for eleven days on horse and mule flesh. Being unsuccessful in meeting with any
Indians, the captain with his men returned, on the 20th December, to Prescott.

But little has yet been done by the military towards subduing the hostile Apaches. Re-
port says some four hundred of these Indians have lately visited Fort Goodwin, anxious to
make peace, and to feed, no doubt, on government beef, which at that point must be very
dear. The Indians in the vicinity of Prescott are robbing, stealing, and murdering ; one
soldier and two citizens were killed a short distance from the capital on the road to Wickens-
burg during my visit. The Indians committing these depredations are renegades from the
Hualapais and Yavapais or Apache-Mojaves. A few days after my departure from Prescott
they ran off seventeen head of horses from Skull valley, about eighteen miles from Prescott,
on the road to this place.

The condition of the river Indians has hardly changed since my last report. Several bands
of cattle have recently been brought in from California, destined for the interior, and are
now being grazed on the Colorado bottdms. Complaints frequently reach me charging the
Indians with killing and eating both cattle and horses. There is, no doubt, sufficient ground
for these complaints, but the Indians when called upon declare that the animals are furnished
them by Mexicans. In some instances this is doubtless true, for there are many dishon-
est people of the latter class on the river, who would not hesitate to steal animals and then
sell them to the Indians.

It will be utterly impossible to remedy this state of affairs until means are furnished to
place the Indians on reservations, and ample power given to enforce the "intercourse la,v/'

It requires the utmost vigilance of myself and employes to preserve peace and order, and
most of my time when here is occupied in the settlement of difficulties which must contin-
ually arise until the Indians are provided as suggested.

I enclose herewith report of Special Agent G. H. Dorr, as also report of persons employed,
for quarter ending 31st of December, 18b'5.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEORGE W. LEIHY,
Superintendent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 26.

LA PAZ, January 11, 1866.

~ SIR : In September last, having occasion to write to the department of Indian Affairs, I
took the liberty of making some suggestions regarding a reservation for some of the Arizona
Indians, below the Pimos, on the Gila river. This subject is of grave importance, as well
to the government as to the Indians and white settlers of the Territory, and, having been one
of the latter for the last thirteen years, I am deeply interested in Indian matters, and again urge
this to your serious consideration. With your permission I will state my views on the sub-

ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENCX, 109

ject. Much of the following- will not be new to you, but is necessary, nevertheless, to give a
clear and Full explanation.

The Indians of this Territory may, for all practical purposes, be fairly divided into two
distinct sections or societies by an imaginary line, beginning at the southern boundary of
Arizona, where the lllth degree of longitude intersects the same, thence north to the Gila
river, thence by Pima reservation down said Gila to the J13th degree of longitude, thence
due north to the boundary of Utah.

First, all the territory east of this line, excepting that of the Moqui Pueblos, is occupied
by roving and robbing Indians, by the various tribes of the Apaches, and a few unsubdued
Navajoes, under Miqtiilito, north of the Little Colorado. These, like the Bedoins of the des-
ert, are the terror of the surrounding Indians and the unceasing, implacable enemy to civili-
zation; cruel, cowardly, and few in numbers, they have, nevertheless, successfully defied the
advance of Spanish and Mexican power and civilization for centuries, and that of the United
States since the acquisition of the Territory. Their very insignificant number, scattered
over a vast mountainous country, has to them proved to be strength.

Second, the section west of this line is occupied by tribes either kindred in origin, or at
least affiliated by intermarriage, frequent intercourse, barter, and similar agricultural pursuits.
& Of common (supposed Aztec) origin are the Pimos, Papagoes, Moquis, Mojaris and
Yumas ; affiliated with them are the Maricopas, Hualapais, and Yurapeis ; of the Yurapeis but
little is known as yet ; they seem to be few in numbers, and vegetate in the deep and dismal
but sublime chasms and canons of the upper Colorado.

The Cocopas reside on the lower Colorado, and belong to the Mexican republic. Some
of the Pi-Utes rove west and north of the upper Colorado, and belong rather to the adjoining
States and Territories. The Pimos and Maricopas have a reservation of 100 square miles,
part of which they cultivate with extraordinary diligence and success. They not only sup-
ply their own wants, but also those, in a great measure, of the military and mail departments,
the mining districts north of the Gila, and the capital of the Territory. They are semi-civi-
lized, docile and honest; so are the Papagoes. The latter inhabit the vast plains south of
the Gila to the Mexican boundary ; there are no running streams in those plains, and agri-
culture is limited, and depends, both in kind and bulk, on the length of the rainy season.
Should the rains fail, no crops are raised that year. In harvest time they assist in gathering
the crops of the whites in Arizona and Sonora; about 1,000 of them have permanent homes
in Souora, (Mexico,) and 3,000 belong exclusively to the soil of the United States.

The Yumas and Mojaves inhabit the immediate margin of the middle Colorado, from
32 30' to 35 30' north latitude.

The Yavapies and Hualapies infest the metalliferous mountain ranges and intervening
plains for 100 miles east of the section occupied by the former that is, the section east of the
middle Colorado. They, in certain seasons, cultivate small spots of ground on the edges of
the Colorado, or on those of a few little inland streams. If the grounds of the Papagoes can-
not be relied upon for the annual crops on account of the uncertainty of rains, those belong-
ing to the four tribes lust mentioned share the same fate to a great extent, notwithstanding
that they are situated on the margin of one of the great rivers of America. The reasons for
this are to be looked for in the physical and geological character of the Colorado country. A
few brief notes only will suffice to explain this. The so-called Colorado bottom consists of
a series of extensive plains, basins and valleys, formed and separated from each other by
erupted mountain ranges, crossing them in a northwest and southeast direction, oblique to
its general course, (north and south.) Before these ranges were severed by the present
channel, these basins and valleys, as denoted by the surrounding levels, were the bottoms
of land-locked seas or lakes. This supposition is strengthened by an investigation of the
subsoil of these bottom lands.

A bird's-eye view shows, at the ordinary stage, the turbid water of the river to be some
fifteen to twenty feet below its banks ; thence level plains from one to ten miles on each side
of the river, to a mesa formation, rising abruptly from twenty to thirty feet, and more occa-
sionally above the bottom ; these masses are composed of a loam, gravel, and shifting sands,
with scattered fossil trees of existing species. They are cut by deep ravines exposing the
parallelism of the quaternary strata, and extend with but little rise to the isolated mountain
ranges east and west of the river. The distance to these mountains varies from nothing to
five, ten, and more miles.

They consist principally of the primary metamorphic states and erupted rocks, from granite
up to the trachytes and basalts of the tertiary period, and are metalliferous in their entire ex-
tent ; of these three sections, only that of the bottom requires to be taken into consideration,
for the present object.

For the last fifteen years numerous attempts have been made by the whites to cultivate
some of the bottom lands of the Colorado river, but up to this time not a single farm worthy
of the name exists, notwithstanding the ready market for grain if raised here, and the exorbi-
tant prices paid by the military department and the citizens, varying from eight to twelve
cents per pound for barley, and other things in proportion.

The reason of this is, that the thin coat of surface soil rests on a vast and thick bed of
shifting sand and light marly material, neither of these with a capacity of retaining the
moisture necessary for successful cultivation of grain, &c .]; frequent and copious showers

110 ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENCY.

and streams of water are therefore needed, and these can only be procured by a stupendous
canal from the Colorado itself.

Another reason or cause of frequent failure may undoubtedly be found in the admixture of
alkaline substances (occasionally pure salt) with the apparently good soil of the valley, and
only trials for years in planting can point out the localities and soil adapted for farming.
The ground cultivated by the Indians consists of small bauds of recent alluvial accumula-
tions iu the lower sloughs, or near the water's edge of the river, or in spots inundated by the
floods, on which, after the water subsides, the crops are raised. If these floods fail, which is
frequently the case, the crops are also a failure, and the Indians are in a half-starving condi-
tion ; at such times they depend upon the whites. The mescal, the few wild fruits and grass
seeds of the mountains, the quail and hare of the valley, and the deer and lizards of the
plains, together furnish but a scanty supply. It was proposed by Mr. Postoii to construct a
canal, or ditch, from the river, and bring the water to the surface of the plain or valley. In
rny opinion, this is a stupendous undertaking. I do not know of one single point favorable
for that purpose; the great depth of the canal at its head, the instability of the lands, the
loose material of the subsoil, and occasional grand wild floods spreading over the entire bot-
tom nearly, are drawbacks that can be overcome only with an enormous expenditure of
capital and labor. That this will be done at some future period I have no doubt ; but it is
not an enterprise that could be carried out by the labor of the Indians, or that should be
undertaken before the capacity of the soil for production has been satisfactorily tested by
repeated trials at different points.

The elevation of water by machinery would, I think, prove unprofitable and insufficient
ior extensive farming, but it might answer for gardening and the raising of vegetables.

After these preliminaries, principally directed against any reservation on the Colorado
river, I will come back to the site on the Gila, which for immediate availability", economy,
and without risk of failure in any respect, is decidedly the best point in the Territory.

There are large tracts of superior lands from the reservation of the Pimos and Maricopas
down the Gila to the Aqua Caliente rancho, a distance of near eighty miles ; most anywhere
between these two points fine sites may be selected. The most available, however, on account
of its seclusion, being away from the highways, is the bottom known as the "Gila bend,"
not far from the Maricopa villages and the mouth of the Salinas river. For irrigation, either
the Gila or Salinas may be tapped at any convenient point, the latter stream carrying from two
hundred to five hundred feet of water at ordinary seasons. These rivers are not so unwieldy
as the troublesome Colorado ; the banks and subsoil are firm, and adapted to the conduct of
water ; besides, the proximity and the moral influence which would be exercised over the new
reserve Indians by the industrious, successful, and happy Pimos and Maricopas would be
salutary and beneficial.

If a systematic and well-digested plan is adopted, the reservation should be self-sustaining
in two years. To accomplish this a survey should at once be made and the necessary ditches
and canals laid oif in accordance with the quantity of land to be cultivated. For the first
two years the work should be in common, but afterwards the land subdivided in order to
stimulate individual pride and ambition. All the ditches and fields should be lined with wil-
lows, cottonwood, or other trees, and thus an apparent desert would be transformed into a
beautiful oasis, and a now vagabond and dubious portion of our population into an industrious
and happy one.

We would thus save to humanity thousands who, if not cared for at once, will perish
through the contact and encroachment of the white element.

The probable expense depends upon the number ot Indians, and consists simply in pro-
visions and tools, and to the time of production. The expense of removal and concentration
would be a mere trifle.

The Apaches and remaining Kavajoes should be transported to General Carleton's great
and most successful reservation on the Pecos river, where there are now from 9,000 to 10,000
Navajoes and Mescaleros tilling the ground.

If the Apaches are left here they will continually break out and flee into their mountain
fastnesses. The Apache is a lazy and roving Indian, and should be made to leave his
country and to forget it, as soon as this is possible ; at all events, they should not be mixed up
with the described races of the second section.

According) to reports, Major Williamson, of topographical engineers, has been ordered to
this Territory. Would it not be advisable for this gentleman to examine the site in question ?
I am slightly acquainted with Major Williamson, from the Klamath region, where we were
both exploring, and shall be at his service for any information needed and known to me.

I regret that I have not time to furnish you with a copy of my new map of Arizona, as it
is not lithographed ; but to understand the preceding remarks, I enclose two maps of Arizona,
published in 1858, with a skeleton copy of the northern portion of the Territory, only lately
opened. Any of my notes regarding this matter are at your disposal, provided you will
furnish some person to copy them, as my time is so much occupied in out-door work, mining
and exploring.

I have the honor to be, respectfully, yours, &c.,

HERMAN ERHENBERG.

D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

ARIZONA SUPERINTENDED Y. Ill

No. 27.

LA PAZ, ARIZONA TERRITORY,

July 31, 3866.

SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report for the month of July, 1866, relative
to the condition of my agency.

The condition of the Yumas is about the same as represented in my last monthly report.
No complaints have reached me concerning them, and at present they are engaged in planting.

The Mohaves are peaceable and industriously inclined ; the vast numbers of this tribe that
for months have been wandering about in idleness now manifest the greatest eagerness in
selecting suitable places and preparing the ground for planting.

The Yavapais are peaceable and rapidly settling on the river; about one hundred of this
tribe returned from the mountains during the month, the most of whom have joined their
head chief Qua-shack-a-mah on the reservation, and aye now devoting their attention to
planting.

Some of this tribe, either from the uncertainty of raising a crop without irrigation or from
an aversion to agricultural pursuits, intend returning to the mountains and pursuing the
chase.

The condition of the Hualapais is the same as represented in my last monthly report.
They are peaceable and quiet, and manifest a friendly disposition towards the whites.

I have the satisfaction of stating in this report, as in my last, that peace prevails along
the river from its mouth to the northern boundary of the Territory. I received a communi-
cation on the 5th instant from William A. Hardy, esq., of Hardyville, Arizona Territory,
stating that he had just returned from Prescott, and on the way to that place and back saw
many signs of peace, and that no depredations had been committed of late, and that he
believes all the tribes of Indians around Prescott and between there and Hardyville are
desirous of peace; that the Hualapais are very quiet, and that the trains travelling through
the country turn out their animals with safety, and no hostile indications are anywhere to
be seen.

There have been two great rises in the Colorado this summer. One occurred in June, and
the other in the early part of the present month, each flooding all the bottom lands on either
side of the river. As the first was subsiding, early in June, many of the Indians commenced
planting, and their crops looked very promising, when the second freshet came and swept
them entirely away. The bottoms are still overflowed, though the river is receding slowly.
These two great rises in this river in so rapid succession and short space of time are
occurrences both uncommon and extraordinary, particularly at the planting season, and have
been the cause of the delay in raising crops this year, which delay from the above cause was
unavoidable. The Indians, however, are not disheartened, but, on the contrary, are greatly
rejoiced at the thorough saturation which the soil has received by these immense freshets,
and intend planting extensively as soon as the water shall have sufficiently receded to allow
of their so doing.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN FEUDGE,
Special United States Agent of Colorado Indians.

G. W. LEIHT, Esq.,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, La Paz, Arizona Territory.

No. 28.

UNITED STATES INDIAN AGENCY,
Tucson, Arizona Territory, June 4, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to report that, in accordance with instructions left with me by
Colonel M. O. Davidson, special Indian agent, I have visited the several tribes connected
with his agency and made distribution to them of the articles left in my care, as per
abstracts, also sent by this mail. I appointed the 10th day of May to meet the Papagoes. The
goods intended for them were stored at the Enriquetta mine, as at the time of their arrival
I was acting as surgeon of the company ; but owing to a suspension of the work I removed
to Tucson, making a request of the quartermaster at Tubac for transportation to convey the
goods also there, but was refused, as I had no order for the same. I was in hopes, until
almost the day appointed for the meeting, to make the distribution at San Xavier del Bas,
and directed Josi, chief, to call the delegates together there, but I was obliged to assemble at
Enriquetta. Early on the morning of the 10th they came in. They were entirely without
food ; I was therefore under the necessity of purchasing from the company agent beef and
flour to feed them. There were present one hundred and two delegates ; ten villages were
represented. Mr. Lyon, deputy collector of the customs at Tubac, was present and assisted
me. His long acquaintance with these Indians renders his services valuable.

The portion of goods intended for them was now divided into parcels, according to the size
of the village; the chief and captains taking charge of the same expressing, on behalf of

112 ARIZONA SUPERINTENDENCY

the delegates, many thanks for the kindness of the government, and making renewed promises
for the future good behavior of their people. I distributed the total amount of Colonel
Davidson's purchase, excepting the part intended for the tame Apaches, the blacksmiths'
tools, and the books, papers, &.C., pertaining to the school. They were much gratified with
their presents, saying that never before had they been so liberally dealt with.

It was not my intention at first to distribute all these goods at this time, but retain a por-
tion for the fall meeting. I could not, however, well do otherwise, as there was so large a
delegation. My order to the chief, Josi, was to call together only three from each pueblo, but
instead there were from eight to twelve; and, too, I did not like to leave the remainder of the
goods at Enriquetta, as the'- place at present is poorly protected against raids from the Sonora
border. I could not get 'transportation to remove them to Tucson. Again, I thought the bill
of goods which Superintendent Leihy some time since advised me he had sent from La Paz,
would be ample for the fall distribution. The matter of transportation I will again allude to.

The following day I drove to Tubac and met the Apaches Manzos, taking with me their
portion of presents. It gave me great gratification to meet these Indians; although but a
remnant of a once powerful tribe, they are the most efficient in their services to the government
of any Indians here. There are but twenty-five men now to represent the tribe ; twenty of
these had just come in from a scout against the wild Apaches, bringing with them two
scalps and three pairs of ears. I was very liberal in the distribution to them, giving every
man, woman, and child a present. They were greatly pleased, and promised renewed zeal in
assisting the troops as guides and citizens as escorts. I advised them also of the desire of the
government that they should select a place that might be secured to them as a home. They
are very anxious to have such a spot. I told them it was expected they would do all they
possibly could towards subduing the wild Apaches, now such a terror to the country. One
fine young man, who speaks Spanish readily, replied: "We need no urging from the great
captain of the whites to turn our feet towards the mountains where live our murderous breth-
ren, while we have left to us the widows and*children of our own braves who have tall en by
their hands; we only live now to avenge their wrongs." These Indians have again gone
out on the war-path; the citizens have made up a bounty of $100 each for every scalp they
take. I will again refer to the condition and wants of these tribes after report of uiy visit
to the Pimos and Maricopas.

Leaving Tubac Saturday evening, in order to pass the most dangerous part of the road in
the night, (I had no escort,) I reached Tucson Sunday afternoon, rested niy animals until
Monday evening, and then left for the Pima villages. I was cordially received by Brigadier
General Mason, who has his headquarters on the reservation.

Mr. A. M. White, licensed trader for these Indians, sent notice to the various pueblos for
them to come in on the following day (Friday) for an interview. In the mean time I had the
goods intended for distribution properly arranged according to population of each village,
laying one side the portion belonging to the Maricopas, in accordance with the request of the
chief, in order that they might come quietly next day and got it, as heretofore, when their por-
tion has been laid out with the Pimos, the latter had rushed in (wild young men among them)
and took all. Friday morning they commenced to gather in, and by noon two thousand were
present. It happened that they had also appointed this day for a council of war, which
brought all the chief men of the tribe together. They were about sending a large force against
the Apaches. After a short talk, in substance the same as that held with the Papagoes, I
gave them their presents. They were more than pleased with the articles, as they were just
what they needed. I refer more particularly to the agricultural implements. They told me
they had never been so well and appropriately thought of before in the selection to meet their
need. It was a real pleasure to meet these Indians. They are noble specimens of the red
man. There are many well-to-do farmers among them. They have a large area of ground
sown to wheat this year. It is estimated they will have 'a million and a half pounds of
grain to sell. I made arrangements with Mr. White to do their blacksmith work, turning
over to him the bill of tools and iron. The ploughs sent out I placed in his charge, as here-
tofore when given to the Indians they have sold them. They are to borrow them now, and
return when through using them. I arranged with Mr. White to do what work they might
need in way of repairs, he to receive his compensation from use of tools and iron.

The Pimos and Maricopas are living very contentedly and pleasantly on the Rio Gila.
There have been seasons when the water has failed, but as a general thing there is enough
to meet their wants. This year they have gone above the reservation, and are working an
unoccupied piece of land on the river, which is very fertile. They do this to let their old
lands have one season's rest.

These Indians need more agricultural implements, such as hoes, spades, shovels, axes,
sickles, carts, and harness. These latter especially should be given them, as they have to
carry their grain in some cases fifteen to twenty miles, and the women are obliged to bring
the wood they use from six to eight miles on their backs. They do not require from the gov-
ernment clothing, as they are able to purchase it, and when given to them it only has a ten-
dency to make them indolent. They need good stock animals. Some four or five California
stallions and bulls would be a great acquisition and prized more than any present the gov-
ernment could give them. They have excellent breeding mares. A small herd of blooded
sheep would also be a benefit, and in time a profitable property. But of all these needs I feel

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY. 113

to urge upon the attention of the department the procurement of carts and harness. They
could be bought for one hundred and fifty dollars in coin each. One should be given to each
village, (ten Pimo and two Maricopa.) I do most earnestly recommend that your agent be
empowered to purchase these things.

They desire very much to have a school. Lieutenant Walker, who lives with the Pimos
and understands their language almost perfectly, is competent to teach them. For a reason-
able compensation he would take charge of a school. It could be more advantageously con-
ducted with these Indians than with the Papagos, for the reason that they are more concen-
trated.

The chief and captains of the ten pueblos should each have compensation from government,
even if not a very large sum ; not only as encouragement to look after their people's wants,
but also to repay them for much that they are obliged to expend incident to their office, espe-
cially the chief, Antonia Azul. He is kept poor on account of the many he has to entertain.

In conclusion, these Indians, now numbering, Pimos 10,000, and Maricopas .1,000, de-
serve the marked attention of your bureau. They are orderly and industrious, virtuous and
happy. If properly looked after by some one who has an interest in their welfare, who is
actuated by an earnest and honest heart, they can be enlightened and elevated. Their his-
tory is replete with interest. It comes down to us from an age reaching back of the time
when our country was discovered. They have monuments of antiquity surprising to behold.

I have followed out the instructions of Colonel Davidson in regard to bringing before the
Papagos in all its bearings the matter of a reservation. With some the idea is favorably re-
ceived, with others not. Many have become so attached to their old places, that they dis-
like to leave ; yet, if government deems it advisable to remove them, they could be induced
to go without much difficulty.

At present they are a source of much assistance to the whites struggling to open the coun
try ; as laborers they are excellent help. They are mixing with the Mexican population to
quite an extent through northern Sonora and southern Arizona. Becoming identified with
these people, they are of much assistance as escorts and guides. Their presence in the vicin-
ity is a great protection to us from the Apaches. In view of these facts the question arises,
is it advisable to remove them to a reservation ?

To establish them properly would require at least $25, 000, as for two years they would be
dependent upon government for support, and, until they could protect themselves, a military
post would be necessary in their midst. There is an excellent point on the Grila river, some
distance below the Pimos, for a reservation. The Papagos have expressed a desire to live
there if they could be assisted to take possession. A school has been much talked of at Sari
Xavier. You were informed by Colonel Davidson that the bishop of New Mexico had prom-
ised a teacher ; he reported to me, but could not speak a word of English ; he was not qualified,
therefore, according to your instructions. I have engaged Mrs. William Tonge, an Ameri-
can lady living here, of excellent character, to take charge of the school. She has lived
near the Papagos some time ; understands their character and habits well. She is held in
high estimation by them on account of her kindness to them. She will open the school in
July. I thought best to make a commencement in the matter, although there is this in the
way : If the school is to be for the benefit of all, some provision must be made to pay for
the board and care of the children who come from the distant villages ; in fact, those at San
Xavier will have to be clothed. A room suitable must be procured and furnished. These
Indians are poor and cannot afford to dress their children. I shall, however, open the school
and await results. I am not yet informed that means have been provided to meet the expenses
of this school, as well as to pay the several salaries indicated in your instructions. * * *

C. H. LORD, Deputy Agent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 29.

SUPERINTENDENCY OP NEVADA,

Carson City, September 10, 1866.

SIR: In obedience to the requirements of the department with which I am connected, I
have the honor to submit my first annual report on the condition of Indian affairs within
my superintendency.

In entering upon the discharge of the duties of my office, I found everything in a very
confused state. Governor Nye had ceased to be ex officio superintendent more than a year
before, and Agent Lockhart had six mouths previously left this part of the country. No
papers or records of importance had been transmitted to me, and I was compelled to collect

8c i

114 NEVADA SUPERINTENDENT.

facts and rearrange the affairs of the office as best I could. The details of this work tinder
such disadvantages have necessarily required patience and consumed time.

The Indian tribes included in this superinteudency are dispersed measurably over the whole

State.

THE BANNOCKS.

This tribe occupies most of that portion of Nevada north of the forty -first degree of north
latitude, with the southeastern corner of Oregon and the southwestern corner of Idaho.
Their country is diversified with mountains, valleys, and barren wastes. Frequently there
are strips of fertile soil around the springs and along the margin of the small streams, which
afford a supply of grass-seed and of other vegetable productions, upon which they subsist.
They also obtain quantities of pine-nuts from the groves of the pinon, which in places cover
the mountain sides. In regard to their food, however, they are not particular, and very often
live upon the insects and reptiles which abound through the country. The few streams and
small lakes afford a scanty supply of fish. The antelope, deer, and mountain sheep are
found in places, but not in large numbers. The rabbit and large hare of the plains are more
abundant. The burrowing marmot, the fox, the wild cat, and the cayote or prairie wolf, all
exist to some extent in this region, and contribute to the food and clothing of these Indians.
But since the discovery of the silver mines in northern Nevada, and especially since the
excitement about the mineral wealth of Idaho, white men have steadily encroached upon the
territory of this tribe. Roads have been made across their country, stations and settle-
ments have been established at convenient watering places and wherever there were produc-
tive lands. Paradise valley, the most extensive fertile valley in their country, is now occu-
pied and cultivated by white men, a number of whom have taken their families there and
propose to be permanent residents.

The Bannocks, numbering about fifteen hundred, are well supplied with horses and exist
in roving bands, controlled by sub-chiefs. As white men have encroached upon their terri-
tory they have manifested a warlike disposition, have made repeated raids upon the newly-
formed settlements, destroyed trains along the highways and committed many depredations,
for which the military authorities have severely punished them. Forts have been erected,
outposts established, and such forces provided as were necessary to maintain peace. It is
proper to state that many of these bands, into which the tribe is divided, have from the first
preserved the most friendly relations and are under the influence of this superintendency.
Xess is known about the mental and moral characteristics of the Bannocks than about either
of the other tribes in this State.

THE SHOSHONES*

This tribe has a population of about two thousand five hundred, and occupies almost the whole
eastern half of the State. The line separating them from the Pai-Utes on the east and south is
not very clearly defined. Since the settlement of Pahranagat and the recent explorations of
Governor Blasdel and party, it is ascertained that the Shoshone language is spoken mostly
by all the bauds of Indians in southeastern Nevada. A letter accompanying this report from
Rev. A. F. White, state superintendent of public instruction, is the most authentic in-
formation received at this office in regard to the condition of this portion of the tribe. The
statements of Mr. White have been fully confirmed, not only by those who were with him
during the long and hazardous journey of which he speaks, but by the miners of Pahran-
agat, Silver Peak, and other places.

About Austin and along the overland mail route, the Shoshones have, through constant
contact with the whites for three or four years, become accustomed to their habits and in
many instances learned to speak the English language. They have also made themselves
useful in various capacities. Some of the women have become good washers, while the men
cut and saw wood, cultivate gardens, and goon errands. They have made but little or no
progress in morals. Like other savage tribes they incline to imitate the vices of the superior
races rather than their virtues.

The Shoshones exist in bands commanded by sub-chiefs. Along the south and eastern
border of their territory these bands are often constituted of many renegades from neighbor-
ing tribes. Governor Blasdel's party often found individuals who could speak only a few
words of the Shoshone language, and in one instance an entire family, including six men
and two or three women, who could not speak it at all, who had probably wandered from
some tribe in northern Arizona. These Indians are more destitute of the necessaries of life
than any other under the care of this superintendency. Comparatively few of them have
been enabled to provide themselves with clothing obtained from the whites. Government
has as yet only furnished goods through this superiutendency for that part of the tribe living
in Ruby valley and its vicinity. The supply which was forwarded for distribution last spring
arrived in this city so late that it was thought best to store them here until fall. In fact, I
had no funds unappropriated to pay for their further transportation at that time. These goods
will be forwarded and distributed towards the approach of winter, when they will be of the
greatest service to the Indians.

South of Ruby valley many white settlements are being formed, and the fertile lands of

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY. 115

this degraded people are being taken from them, their grasses consumed, their groves of pine
trees (pinon) destroyed, and the scanty supply of game is being killed or driven away by the
invaders, whom the Indian has learned to regard as his natural enemies. The country in-
creases in sterility towards the south until it becomes probably the most barren district on the
American continent. The families and bands which dwell in this region are destitute of
horses and other domestic animals. They live in the depths of poverty, and are emaciated
from hunger. When they steal horses, mules, and cattle, it is to appease the cravings of ap-
petite ; to keep themselves and their families from starvation. But these acts, with their ut-
ter want of moral perception, and their degraded and wretched condition, have given rise to
such a strong and general aversion to them that the miners almost universally demand their
extermination. Acts of injustice, wrong, and cruelty are riot unfrequent. The civil law can-
not protect them at so great a distance. An existence maintained under such natural disad-
vantages must, of necessity, fade away before the encroachments of a superior race. I beg
leave respectfully to recommend that all necessary measures be at once adopted by the de-
partment to select and establish a suitable reservation for the ShoshoribS somewhere in the
vicinity of Pahranagat. Lands, with proper facilities for irrigation, adapted to agricultural and
grazing purposes, might now be obtained.

THE PI-UTES.

The territory occupied by this tribe is about one hundred miles broad, and is bounded on
the north by the country of the Bannocks, on the east by that of the Shoshones, on the south
by the State line between Nevada and California, and on the west by the territory of the
Washoes. The population is estimated at about four thousand two hundred, including all
classes. There are no Indians within this superintendency who have been so much benefited
by their intercourse with the whites as the Pi-Utes. Situated immediately on the old emigrant
road, at an early day they became acquainted with our habits and customs. Trading posts,
stations, and settlements were established among them before the discovery of the rich deposits
of silver ore east of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Many of them learned the English lan-
guage, and conducted a limited traffic with the emigrants and settlers.

The Carson, Truckee, and Humboldt rivers, with the lakes into which these streams emp-
tied, afforded an abundant supply of fish, accessible at all times. Along the margin of these
rivers and bordering upon the lakes were extensive bodies of fertile land, producing annu-
ally quantities of grass-seed, and of such vegetables as completed the stock of food necessary
to the wants of this people. Being thus better fed than the surrounding tribes, they were
also much better developed, both physically and mentally. They made themselves service-
able in a variety of ways to the white man. Their willingness to work, and the efficiency
and faithfulness with which they discharged the duties in which they were engaged, enabled
them to find employment. Some of them earned both food and clothing for themselves and
their families. Some of them became dissipated and fell victims to the vices which white
men introduced. The great majority, however, resisted to some extent the temptations to
which they w r ere exposed. At times, through repeated provocations, they were impelled to
take up arms against the whites. Still, 'upon the whole, they have been peaceable; have
yielded readily to the will of the government, and are now cheerfully obedient to its laws.
They are usually teachable, kind, and industrious. Their habits of temperance are proverbial,
and deserve special mention. It is not known that there is an inebriate in the tribe. It is
rare to find an individual who will even taste intoxicating liquors in any form. They have wit-
nessed the evil effects of intemperance in their early acquaintance with white men, and, with
a full conviction of its fatal and destructive tendencies, they have determined to abide by the
principles of total abstinence. Their habits of virtue are equally rigid. It is the testimony
of their agents, and those who have had ample opportunity of knowing for years, that they
are scrupulously chaste in all their intercourse. This is especially true of their women. To
these habits and excellence of character may be attributed the fact that they are annually in-
creasing in numbers, and that they are a strong, healthy, active people. Many of them are
employed as laborers on the farms of white men in all seasons, but they are especially ser-
viceable during the time of harvest and haymaking. The lessons of husbandry which they
thus learn are not forgotten, and a disposition is often manifested to put them in practice on
the lands reserved for their special benefit, but hitherto we have been unable, for want of
means, to afford them much encouragement.

THE WASHOES.

This is a small tribe of about five hundred Indians, living in the extreme western part of
the State. They are usually a harmless people, with much less physical and mental devel-
opment than the Pi-Utes, and more degraded morally. They are indolent, improvident, and
much addicted to the vices and evil practices common in savage life. They manifest an al-
most uncontrollable appetite for intoxicating drinks. They are sensual and filthy, and are
annually diminishing in numbers from the diseases contracted through their indulgences
A few have learned the English language, and will do light work for a reasonable compen-
sation. They spend the winter mouths about the villages and habitations of white men,
from whom they obtain tolerable supplies of food and clothing. The spring, sumrn<_ r , and

116 NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

autumn months are spent in fishing about Washoe and Tahoe lakes and the streams which
flow through their country. They also gather grass-seed and pine-nuts, hunt rabbits, hares,
and ducks.

There is no suitable place for a reservation in the bounds of their territory, and, in view of
their rapidly diminishing numbers and the diseases to which they are subjected, none is re-
quired.

RESERVATIONS.

Within the bounds of this superintendency there are but three. One is a reservation made
for the purpose of securing timber and lumber for the benefit of the Pi-Utes. This tract of
land was well selected, properly surveyed, and lies within the territory of the Washoes. It
is not adapted to the purposes of agriculture, and the Indians seldom even pass over it. It
consists of about twenty thousand acres, or nearly one-fifth of the best timbered land in the
State. The Pacific railroad passes through the centre, and that company will claim every
alternate section.

It is found, also, that it is exceedingly difficult to protect this timber. Men gradually
encroach upon it, either wilfully or ignorantly, despite all the vigilance which can be used
to prevent them. As the timber in other parts of the State is consumed, and as the railroad
progresses, this difficulty will increase. It is a fact, also, that since the protection of the
lands reserved for the Indians about Pyramid lake, a young and vigorous growth of timber
has sprung up, which, in a few years at most, will aafford a supply for all practical -pur-
poses ; so that the timber on the reservation above named will not be wanted, as was at first
supposed.

In view of all the circumstances and facts in the case, I respectfully recommend that this
reservation be sold to the best possible advantage, and that the proceeds be applied to the
common benefit of all the Indian tribes under the supervision of this superintendency, upon
such conditions as the department may decide.

The Truckee River reservation includes Pyramid lake and a portion of the adjacent coun-
try, and is well adapted to grazing and agricultural purposes. The soil is fresh and fertile,
and the climate mild and healthful. Several acres of ground have been ploughed and were
planted with potatoes and other vegetables in the proper season, and now are yielding a fair
return. This experiment, made without cost to the government, I am happy to say has been
a fine success, and at once proves the productiveness of the soil and the disposition of the
Pi-Ute Indians to labor for their own support.

From the accompanying reports of Agent Campbell and of Farmer Thomas, you will see
that an attempt was also made to cultivate a portion of the Walker River reservation last
spring. The particulars of this effort, with the results, are fully stated in the reports men-
tioned. This and the Truckee River reservation are very similar in many characteristics,
although separated by the distance of seventy miles or more. They are each selected for the
use and benefit of the Pi-Utes ; are alike situated many miles from any considerable body of
fertile laud which may hereafter be occupied by white men, and are surrounded by ranges of
mountains and sandy plains. Each includes several thousand acres of good farming and
grass land, which only needs irrigation and proper cultivation to produce abundantly every
variety of cereals and vegetables. The facilities for irrigation are not surpassed. Never-
failing streams, affording ample supplies of pure fresh water, from the snows of the Sierras,
flow down and form lakes in the centre of each, of no inconsiderable size. Both streams and
lakes abound in the finest trout and other fish, and are thus never-failing reservoirs of food
upon which the Indian delights to live.^ Such are the provisions which a prudent forethought
has wisely made for the future wants of these children of the desert.

But the time is at hand when this people begin to regard these reservations as their homes
and only sure hope for a support. Their country is rapidly passing from them. Every
garden spot and tillable acre of land is now being sought out and occupied by white men.
Their groves of pifion are disappearing before the strokes of his axe, their grass-seed is con-
sumed by his herds, the antelope and mountain sheep are killed or driven away, and, although
there is some compensation in the employment given in the harvest field and elsewhere, still
the Indian must look for a reliable and permanent supply of his wants to the products of
these lands sacredly set apart for him. But he has no skill in husbandry, and no implements
of culture. He has shown himself ready and willing to labor, and already deeply feels his
necessities, and looks with anxious expectation to that government upon which we have
taught him to rely.

1 therefore earnestly recommend that such liberal provisions as the department may deter-
mine be made for the support of two good faithful practical farmers, and that they be placed
upon these reservations, supplied with all necessary implements, seed, and whatever else
ru ay be necessary to enable them to begin the work of cultivation, by enclosing farms, break-
ing the soil, preparing ditches and canals for irrigation, so that at the proper time next
spring they may sow and plant and instruct the Indians in the various departments of agri-
culture

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENT. 117

SCHOOLS.

With the occupation and improvement of the reservations, as above indicated, there should
be introduced a system of education founded upon the "manual labor" plan. Experience
has shown that the children of savage tribes should be warmly clad and well fed upon good
wholesome food. Then they should be taught "to labor. Habits of patient industry should
be formed and cultivated. They should be led to think by lessons concerning objects pre-
sented to their senses, and impressed by oral instruction. Books may be introduced by
degrees, and thus the attention gained, the powers of the intellect aroused, and the element-
ary branches successfully studied. If this course should be pursued, under a firm and gentle
form of moral government, I can scarcely doubt that the mental energies would be suc-
cessfully elicited, the moral nature purified, and the whole character elevated. It is not
maintained that under such instruction and discipline the rising generation would become
highly cultivated or fully civilized. It is only hoped that the race might be improved ; that
the child, when grown, would be less a savage and more of a true man than he would have
been otherwise ; that he might have a practical knowledge of agriculture ; be able to read
and write ; be a good law-abiding citizen, and become virtuous and happy to the extent of
his capacities.

In view of these considerations, I have the honor to recommend that some provision be
made for the establishment of a system of instruction founded upon the plan thus briefly set
forth.

Hoping that this brief review of the condition and wants of the Indians in this superin-
tendency, and the recommendations I have made, may serve to awaken an abiding interest
in their behalf, I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most
obedient, humble servant,

H. G. PARKER,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, Nevada.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner, Washington, D. C.

No. 30.

WALKER RIVER INDIAN RESERVE,

August 22, ]866.

SIR : I have the honor to submit my first annual report as agent for Indians in the State
of Nevada.

Before entering into a detailed account of the condition of each tribe, there are matters of
importance, affecting the general interests of the Indian service within this State, of which
I deem it necessary to speak.

By the changes recently made in the southern and eastern boundary of the State, fifteen
hundred souls have been added to our Indian population, placing the total number at about
ten thousand. These Indians are dispersed over the entire country, living in small bands
or families wherever the natural productions of" the earth are sufficient to sustain life. The
general character of this country is that of the most sterile on the continent, being almost
entirely devoid of game. The principal dependence of the Indians has always been the
pine-nuts and grass-seed, though fish constitutes an item of importance. This character of
country has forced the Indian to the adoption of habits of industry, economy, and foresight.

If there are any treaty stipulations existing between any of the tribes and the United
States, excepting with the western Shoshone bands, I have no knowledge of them. This
condition of affairs may be regarded as favorable, providing the Indians receive equal con-
sideration with those having such stipulations.

Experience among them convinces me that they are better satisfied with unexpected favors
than with those long and anxiously looked for.

Considering the nature of this country, with the character of its white population, pio-
neer and progressive, it may be suggested that any scheme involving a removal of the In-
dians to a place of greater security from intrusion by the white man is impracticable, and
here, at least, they must occupy the country in common. Such being the case, it becomes
of the first importance, in order to preserve and civilize the former, and maintain peace be-
tween the two races, that the individuals of each race that commit crimes upon the otb-er
should receive sure and proper punishment. The Indians have been taught that their Great
Father at Washington will redress their grievances, and punish the offenders ; but, from
the manner in which justice has been dealt out to them in this State, they can now refer .to
many precedents which show that such is not the case. In no instance has a white ever
been punished according to law for the murder of' an Indian, or an Indian for the murder
of a white.

At present there are confined at Fort Churchill two Walker River Pi-Utes for the murder
of Stuart and Rabe, in February, 13G5. They were arrested in April following, by United

118 NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCY.

States troops, upon the Walker reservation, and afterwards turned over to the authorities of
Esmeralda county for trial. With tools furnished them they broke jail, returned to the res-
ervation, and, with the assistance of a few relatives, killed the Indian who first informed of
the murder. After much difficulty and delay they were recaptured.

The effects of this affair have been injurious. It has encouraged those among the whites
who favor extermination ; while, among the Indians, those who were anxious and willing
that the offenders should be brought to justice now fear to take an active part against
them.

During the summer of 1865, four Bannock Indians who had been engaged in murdering
and plundering were delivered by the military to the civil authorities of Humboldt county.
The posse taking them in charge shot them down under the pretext of their trying to escape.
While these Indians no doubt deserved their fate, yet could they have received it 'through
some form of trial, and in the presence of Indians, the example could not have been other
wise than beneficial. These instances are cited for the purpose of showing you that we are
without any form of justice to aid in the work of civilizing the Indians.

Officers of the law defend their course by urging the impracticability of convicting an In
dian under the laws of this State, and that the counties are unable to bear the expense, &c.,
all of which is in a great measure true.

That policy is best to pursue towards Indians that holds them, so far as possible, indi
vidually (instead of tribally) accountable for their misdeeds, and unless some system of
justice be established on our frontier that is both inexpensive and certain to punish those
who are known to be guilty and are universally admitted to be so by their tribe, (as was
the case with the two Indian prisoners referred to above,) no punishment will ever be in-
flicted, while, in time, an accumulation of wrongs will increase very much the chances of
an Indian war, in which the many suffer for the acts of the few.

The murder of Stuart and Rabe, according to the prisoners' own story, (told in their sim-
ple and ignorant way, ) was committed solely for the purpose of plunder. The circumstan-
tial evidence which is admissible in court against them, however, is extremely defective.

The Indians, in whose territory mines have been found of sufficient richness to warrant
the erection of quartz mills and the settlement of the country, have been in a great measure
compensated for the destruction of their resources in the pay received from the whites for
labor performed, and, in accommodating themselves to the new order of things, have shown
great aptitude. The need, however, of assistance from the government for the purpose of
cultivating the reserves which we have, and in the establishment and cultivation of others,
is most urgent. This arises from the fact that it is impossible to foretell when or what num-
ber of the many embryo mining districts that are within this State may attract to their dif-
ferent localities a large population.

There are three reservations within this State : the Walker, by road, sixty -five miles east ;
the Pyramid, seventy-five north ; and the Timber reserve, forty northwest of Carson City.
The abandonment of all that portion of the Pyramid reserve lying within ten miles of its
southern boundary line includes the saw-mill site and the farm which Agent Lockhart es-
sayed to improve. The improvements are worthless, but the Indians have sustained a loss
of at least fifteen hundred acres of tillable land, which is now occupied by settlers.

In order to give the department a more correct idea of the location of the several tribes
within this State, I herewith transmit a map of Nevada, on which I have marked, in red
ink, the names of tribes, their population, and the boundary lines of the respective districts
over which they roam.

The following estimates are made for the improvement of the Walker and Pyramid re-
serves, and also for the current and contingent expenses of this agency for the fiscal year
ending June 30, 1868. The prices given in the schedule are as they prevail at the present
time at Carson City. Teams and supplies of all kinds can be purchased at least twenty-
five per cent, cheaper in the fall than in the spring of the year.

If the appropriations are made, fanning operations should commence at the reservations
by the first day of August, 1867. It might then be reasonably expected that at the close of
the fiscal year ending June 30, 1868, there would be upon each reserve three hundred acres
of land under cultivation, and eight miles irrigating ditch completed.

The following schedule of articles is requested for the Pyramid reserve :

Salary of superintending farmer $1, 000 00

Salary of assistant farmer 800 00

Cost of farm-house and necessary out-buildings 2, 500 00

Cost of six thousand rations, at forty cents each 2, 400 00

Cost of eighteen yoke of oxen, with yokes and chains 3,15000

Cost of blankets and clothing 1,500 00

Cost of two ox wagons 400 00

Cost of four ploughs and two harrows 300 00

Cost of shovels, spades, and hoes, one dozen each 72 00

Cost of harvesting and haying tools 145 00

Cost of axes and grub hoes, one-half dozen each 80 00

Cost of four thousand feet of lumber, for fluniing 160 00

Cost of blacksmith and carpenter tools 250 00

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENCE 119

Cost of five riding horses and two saddles $600 00

Cost of two shovel ploughs and corn cultivators 50 00

Cost of seed wheat and barley for two hundred and fifty acres of land 1, 000 00

Cost of seed potatoes and garden seed 250 00

Cost of four milch cows 200 00

Cost of five hogs 100 00

14,957 00

For the Walker reserve, the same as above 14, 957 00

Travelling expenses of agent and interpreter 1 , 000 00

Salary of interpreter 500 00

Contingent expenses 586 00

Total amount asked for 32,000 00

The information herein given concerning the Shoshone and other tribes in the eastern,
and the Bannocks of the northern part of the State, is, in consequence of an entire absence
of funds since my taking charge of this agency, mainly derived from a former experience
among them, and from other reliable sources.

WA8HOES.

Commencing at the westernboundary of the State, we have first the Washoe tribe, number-
ing about five hundred, and occupying a tract of country one hundred miles long, north and
south, by twenty-five in width. There is no reservation within their district except the tim-
ber reserve, which is not adapted to cultivation, nor arable land which is not occupied.
There is, however, a large amount of waste country over which they can roam unmolested
for all the future if they wish to gratify their propensities in that respect.

These Indians are a peaceable and inoffensive people, inclined to use intoxicating liquor,
occasionally to excess, and practice the immoralities common to Indians generally. They
are disinclined to labor, though in this respect a change for the better is gradually taking
place. In food and clothing they are generally quite well supplied. Nothing can be done to
better their condition or prospects without a large outlay of money. I would, however,
recommend the usual issue of clothing each year, and, in case of a severe winter, beef and
flour in sufficient quantities to relieve their necessities.

PI-UTES.

This tribe inhabits a country two hundred miles long by one hundred and twenty broad,
lying parallel and east of that of the Washoes. They number about four thousand two
hundred, and are divided into five distinct bauds. South of Walker lake are the Mono
Pi-Utes, numbering four hundred, and under Chief Waiigh-adz-ah-bo. They are closely
allied to the Walker River or Ocki Pi-Utes, numbering fifteen hundred, and located in the
vicinity of Walker river and lake and Carson river and upper lake, under Chief Oderie and
Sub-chiefs Joaquiu and E-sah-dawh, or Young Cayote. At the lower Carson lake are the
Toy Pi-Utes, numbering eight hundred, and under Chief Johnson. They affiliate with the
Coo-er-ee and Sidocaw bands, the former of which is located in the vicinity of Pyramid lake,
and numbers some seven hundred, under Chief Young Winnemucca. The latter is located
in the vicinity of Humboldt lake and river, and numbers about eight hundred, under Chief
Sue.

The Mono and Octi bands should ultimately be settled upon the Walker and the Coo-er-ee,
Toy and Sidocaw upon the Pyramid reserves. These reserves are well adapted for the pur-
poses designed. Each contains an extensive fishery and some grazing country, with about
three thousand acres of arable land, from which white neighbors are barred to a distance by
intervening sand plains and mountains. The improvements now upon these reservations
consist of a small plank house upon each, with the addition of an adobe stable at the Walker.
These buildings are but temporary affairs and must soon be replaced by others which are
larger and better suited to the requirements. On neither has any land ever been cultivated
worthy of mention, there not having been either teams or tools for that purpose.

During the past year the tribe has maintained the most friendly relations with the whites ;
even the little troubles that were usually arising between them and the settlers have nearly
ceased. They are extensively employed throughout the country as farm-hands, especially
during the harvest season. For the purpose of securing employment they resort to the towns
and mining camps in large numbers, and by their industrious habits and orderly behavior
have gained praise and good will from our citizens. Their character, w r hen compared with
that of Indians generally, is distinguished by moral habits and a teachable nature. Usually
they are well clad in good woollen goods ; and I will here take occasion to recommend that
hereafter not more than three thousand dollars' worth of blankets and clothing be purchased
annually for the Pi-Ute Indians, and that these be kept at the Walker and Pyramid reserves,
and issued only to those Indians who may hereafter be engaged there in cultivating the soil.

120 NEVADA SUPERINTENDENT.

Indians not so engaged have ample opportunities for procuring a sufficiency. Tins would
leave a cash balance that could be applied to purchasing teams, tools, &c., and at the
same time exert a most beneficial effect upon the Indians. Two manual-labor schools
upon each reserve would no doubt prove a success. The personal property of the tribe is
worth about $12,000, consisting of four hundred ponies at $30 per head. This kind of
property they are increasing very rapidly by purchasing from the whites. The amount to
which they are benefited thereby, however, is questionable.

I cannot close this report of these Indians without urging the necessity of an appropria-
tion for the purpose of improving both the Walker and Pyramid reserves. The natural
obstacles to be overcome in starting farming operations preclude the idea that the Indians
could succeed without assistance. The first thing necessary to insure success is an irrigat-
ing canal, which should have a capacity equal to the carrying of fifteen hundred inches of
water, which, when required, could be continued for miles.

BANNOCKS.

North of and adjoining the Pi-Utes are the Bannocks. Formerly, these Indians were in
the habit of visiting Pyramid lake, where I have met and talked with them. Judging from
the nature of their country and from information received from military officers, I estimate
the number of that portion of the tribe which inhabits this State at fifteen hundred. Since
May, 1865, the larger portion of them have been acting in concert with the hostile Snake or
Bannock Indians of southern Idaho. This combination has also been re-enforced by a
large number of renegades from other tribes, and at present remain unsubdued, though from
three to six companies of United States troops have been actively employed against them
since the outbreak. In point of numbers they are formidable, and seem to be imbued with
a spirit of dash and bravery quite unusual, while, being well mounted and armed, with the
advantage of knowing the country perfectly, they are enabled to disperse and rally at given
points with a rapidity that defies pursuit or a knowledge of their whereabouts.

SHOSHONES.

To the east of the Pi-Utes are the Shoshones, numbering about twenty-five hundred.
Their language is very different from that of either the Bannocks or Pi-Utes. The section
which they inhabit is large in extent, but extremely barren in resources, and as the Indians
are often reduced to the dire necessity of eating reptiles and other loathsome things, it is not
surprising that when in such straits they should occasionally relieve their wants by killing
cattle and prospectors' horses. In clothing they are poorly supplied, having but few oppor-
tunities of getting any except those given them by the government. During the past year
their behavior has been excellent. They are willing laborers, and would no doubt gladly
concentrate upon some suitable reserve, where, with assistance from the government in the
shape of teams, tools, &c., they would soon be enabled to gain a much better living than
they now enjoy, with but little or no greater labor. The reserve in Ruby valley, which was
formerly intended for their use, is now occupied by settlers and the Overland Mail Company's
farm. I would recommend that another be set apart for them upon the headwaters of the
Humboldt river. From investigation it is found that the destitution that at times prevails in
this and other tribes of the Great Basin is not the result of a partial settlement of the coun-
try w r hich they occupy, but that suffering and scarcity at times forms a part of their history
from time immemorial.

To the east of the Shoshones are the Goships or Goshu-Utes, and to the southeast the
Pai-Utes. The latter form no part of the great Pi-Ute tribe to the west of them. They in-
habit the region that was ceded to this State by Congress during the last session, formerly a
part of Utah and Arizona.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

FRANKLIN CAMPBELL,

United States Indian Agent.

Hon. H. G. PARKER,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Carson City, Nevada.

No. 31.

WALKER RIVER RESERVE,
A v gust 28, 18G6.

SIR : In compliance with your instructions I have the honor to submit this my annual re-
port as local agent and farmer for the Walker reserve.

I took charge here the 1st of April last, and with the assistance of the interpreter, R. A.
Washington, commenced clearing brush for a field of three or four acres.

On the 20th of April I started in breaking the piece with three yoke of oxen which you

NEVADA SUPERINTENDENT. 121

had hired for that pnrpose. After the ground was broken an irrigating ditch was opened
which, for want of time and means, is only one thousand yards long.

An acre of potatoes and one-half acre of corn, and a variety of other vegetables, were
planted by the ]5th of May. About this time the melting snow in the mountains had raised
the river and filled the ditch. Everything would have soon been in fine growing condition
but for the breaking of the embankment of the ditch at a point where it crossed a low slough.
Before the breach could be repaired the river, in consequence of the cold weather, had re-
ceded to its low stage, and did not rise again until the middle of June. .By that time two-
thirds of the seed potatoes had become as dry as chips, and could never grow. The balance
with everything else came up in the latter part of June and grew very finely. There will be
about fifty bushels of potatoes, ten of corn, twenty of turnips, and a good supply of beets,
onions, cabbages, watermelons, &c. The 1st of July I planted an acre and a half with tur-
nips. The seed came up well, but was quickly devoured by the grasshoppers. I replanted
them, but with the same result. These pests, which visit us occasionally, would be pretty
thoroughly subdued by a general system of irrigation.

I have cut and stacked fifteen tons of hay. The yield was very light, for the reason that
the river remained at a low stage until a late period in the season.

The Indians in the vicinity of thi* agency have been as peaceable as could be desired.
They have manifested much interest in my first efforts at farming, and voluntarily offered to
assist in any way they could, but having neither provisions to feed them nor tools for them to
work with, I was obliged to decline their assistance. They seem to realize the importance
of their soon becoming an agricultural people, and would no doubt, with proper management,
make good farmers.

The agricultural land upon this reserve will average about one-quarter of a mile wide and
is twenty-four miles long, lying on either bank of the Walker river. Deducting the space
occupied by the sloughs and the river bed. the arable land will amount to about three thou
sand acres. It is all more or less impregnated with salts and alkali, which will disappear,
however, with each year's cultivation.

The average fall in the river is about five feet to the mile, while the good land lies some six
feet above the river bed. Therefore, in order to get water upon the surface at all seasons of
the year, a ditch without a dam must be at least one mile long. Above the agency three
miles a dam can be constructed from rocks which are close to the river bank.. A ditch on
each side of the river, from the dam down and past the agency as far as it could be taken
without fluming past the bluffs which occur occasionally below, would irrigate about seven
hundred acres of land.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. A. THOMAS, Farmer.

FRANKLIN CAMPBELL, Esq.,

United States Indian Agent.

No. 32.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Carson City, Nevada, May 10, 1866.

SIR : On the 28th of March last I had the honor to address you a communication informing
you that 'certain parties (four white men) had squatted upon the Truckee River reservation
with a view to claim and hold for their own use and benefit certain tracts of desirable agri-
cultural land, the same being part of said reservation, &c. On the 10th ultimo I caused a
notice to be served upon each of them, requiring them to leave, and to desist from making
further settlement and committing further trespass thereon. With the requirements of this
notice they refused to comply, whereupon I made application to Lieutenant Colonel A. E.
Hooker, commanding the district of Nevada, who promptly furnished me with eight soldiers,
under the command of a lieutenant, for the purpose of ejecting them by force if necessary. I
proceeded to the reservation, where I met the officer in command, who, with the soldiers, ac-
companied me to where the squatters were residing.

On being informed of my intention to eject them by force in case they refused to move,
and seeing that I had a sufficient number of United States soldiers to accomplish the object,
they expressed their willingness to leave immediately, which they proceeded to do without
further delay, promising they would not again make any attempt to claim or settle upon the
lands within the limits of the reservation.

I remain, sir, respectfully, your very obedient servant,

H. G. PARKER,

Superintendent Indian A/airs, Nevada.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner, Washington, D. C.

122 UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Carson City, Nevada, April 19, 1866.

SIR : Agreeably to your instructions I have from time to time since their reception made
calculations and estimates in relation to the cost of a building suitable for a school-house on
one of the reservations in this State, of sufficient capacity to accommodate fifty pupils, in-
cluding houses for the teachers, and boarding and lodging house for the scholars.

Much time has necessarily been occupied in computing and ascertaining from different
sources the cost of materal and construction, and the collecting of other important facts in
relation to the matter. Taking it for granted that the school, if established, will, as set forth
in your letter of instructions, be conducted on the manual-labor or industrial principles in
connexion with book education, I have, after a careful investigation of the subject, based
upon the experience and judgment of intelligent mechanics and builders here, arrived at the
conclusion that to erect the buildings for dormitories, refectories, school-rooms, dwelling-house
for teachers, and furnish the same, and fence a quantity of land sufficient for the purposes of
the school, and furnish the requisite stock, tools, teams, seeds, &c., it will require an expen-
diture of eleven thousand five hundred dollars, ($11,500.)

I am of the opinion, however, that if I could have time to personally superintend the con-
struction of the work, it might be done for an amount somewhat less. This, though, would
depend to some extent upon the quantity of labor which the Indians might be induced to
perform.

My experience is that the Indians will labor, if they can be led to understand that they are
not to be made the victims of misdirected energy by laboring in vain. I have abundant evidence
that many of them will make good farmers, in order to become which they only need to be
encouraged.

After the first expenses of such an undertaking were paid, I incline to the opinion that the
school could easily be made self-sustaining. Blacksmiths, farmers, and teachers can be pro-
cured here for seventy-five dollars per month.

I have the honor to be, sir, very truly, your obedient servant,

H. G. PARKER,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, Ntvada.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington City, D. C.

UTAH -SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 34.

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Great Salt Lake City, Utah, September 20, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to submit my annual report of the general condition of Indian affairs
within the Utah superintendency for that portion of the year past during which I have been
acting as superintendent. The Indian tribes within this superintendency are :

1. The eastern bands of Shoshones and the mixed bands of Bannocks and Shoshones. These
bands all recognize Washakee as chief. They number about four thousand five hundred souls.

2. The northwestern bands of Shoshones. These Indians number about eighteen hun-
dred. Pokatello, Black Beard, and San Pitz are the principal chiefs.

3. The western Shoshones. These Indians number about two thousand.

4. The Goships or Gosha-Utes. These Indians number about one thousand.

5. The Weber-Utes or Cum-umbahs. These Indians number about six hundred.

6. The Utahs. These Indians are now principally consolidated into two bands, one under
the control of Tabby, who has succeeded to the chieftainship made virtually vacant by the
old age and infirmity of Sow-i-et. This band is composed of the Tim-pa-nogs, the Uintas,
and the San-pitches, and numbers about four thousand. The other Utahs are known as Pah-
Vants, and are controlled by Ranosh, and number about fifteen hundred.

7. The Pah-Edes. These Indians number about six hundred. Their principal chief is
Tut-sey-gub-bets.

8. The Pah-Utes. These Indians number about sixteen hundred.

THE EASTERN BANDS OF SHOSHONES.

These Indians are under the special supervision of Agent Luther Mann, whose annual re-
port is herewith transmitted. They are the most wealthy of any Indians in the Territory,
owing to their hunting grounds embracing much territory still frequented by the buffalo. The
robes taken by them on their hunting excursions form an article of traffic of considerable im-

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY. 123

portance, and enable them by the sale of their surplus skins to purchase ponies, ammunition,
&c. During the year these Indians have been entirely friendly. Washakee, their chief, is
the noblest Indian, both in act and appearance, that I have ever known. When young he
spent much of his time for many years in company with the famous Kit Carson, then an ad-
venturous trapper amonu the Rocky mountains. Carson and his companions had frequent
skirmishes with hostile savages, and the familiarity which Washakee thus acquired with the
arts of civilized warfare enabled him to rise to the chieftainship of his tribe. It is his boast
that he has never shed the blood or stolen the property of a white man. The propriety of
goon locating these Indians upon a suitable reservation is discussed at large in the report of
Agent Mann, and his views are such as meet my entire approbation. The Wind River val-
ley, which is the favorite hunting ground for these Indians, will be the most suitable locality,
unless it shall be found to be rich in mines of gold and silver and springs of petroleum.
Should this be the case, it would not perhaps be the policy of' the government to prevent the
development of its mineral resources by setting it apart as a reservation. Its location, too, is
a considerable distance from the usual lines of travel, and would render the transportation
of supplies, presents, &c., somewhat inconvenient and expensive. The miners are, however,
already prospecting this valley, and the resiilts of their researches will soon be known. The
rapid development of the surrounding territory will soon render the isolation of the valley
less complete, and should it not be valuable for mining an exploration of the same should be
made, and the Shoshones permanently located thereon. These Indians receive an annuity of
$10,000, according to the provisions of the treaty of July 2, 1863. This amount is usually sent
in goods, and is ample to comfortably clothe the IncKans in connexion with the proceeds of
the sales of their surplus robes and furs.

NORTHWESTERN SHOSHONES.

These Indians are very poor, their country affording but little game. They are peaceably
disposed, and will probably become merged in the eastern bands within a few years, should
Washakee live and retain his popularity and influence. A considerable number of these
Indians, including the two chiefs Pokatello and Black Beard, have this season accompanied
Washakee to the Wind River valley on his annual buffalo hunt. These Indians receive an
annuity of $5,000 in goods by the provisions of the treaty of July 30, 1863. This is suffi-
cient to clothe them comfortably, but it is necessary to furnish them, during the winter season
especially, a considerable amount of provisions to keep them from starving. Neither these
Indians nor the eastern bands have as yet displayed any inclination to agriculture, or an
abandonment of their nomadic life.

WESTERN SHOSHONES.

These Indians range throughout western Utah and eastern Nevada. They are extremely
poor, their country being in great part a desert, and almost entirely destitute of game.
These Indians are also the recipients of an annuity of $5,000. They are well disposed and
friendly, no depredations of any kind having been brought to my notice during the past
year. It is necessary to distribute a considerable amount of provisions yearly to these In-
dians to prevent starvation among them. Their only offences for many years have been in
stealing occasionally an ox when in danger of actual starvation.

THE GOSHIPS.

These Indians range between the Great Salt Lake and the land of the western Shoshones.
Many of them are quite industrious, maintaining themselves in good part by herding stock,
and other labor for the settlers. Their country is destitute of game, and it is necessary to
furnish them with a considerable amount of provisions. They are the recipients of an annu-
ity of $1,000, which is entirely insufficient to supply their wants. It should be at least
$5,000. These Indians are entirely friendly.

THE WEBER-UTES.

These Indians are the most worthless and indolent of any in the Territory. Their land
is nearly all occupied by settlers, among whom they beg their maintenance. To-Tado, or
Little Soldier, their principal chief, is a worthy and reliable Indian. All the band are well
disposed. They are much opposed to leaving their present haunts to locate upon a reserva-
tion.

THE UTAHS.

Sow-i-et, long the head chief of the Utahs, now claims to be 130 years of age. He is
nearly blind, and exceedingly infirm. During the past year he has virtually abandoned all
claims to the chieftainship, so far as concerns the supervision and immediate control of the
Indians, and Tabby is now recognized as the leading chief. Sow-i-et is still much revered
by his people, and his voice is and has always been in favor of peace. The Uintah-Utes oc-
cupy the country set apart in 1861 as a reservation for the Indian tribes of Utah. During

124 UTAH SUPERINTENDENT Y.

the past year nearly all the Tim-pa-nogs and San-pitches have removed to Uintah valley, and
while preserving their organization in part, recognize Tabby as chief. The Tim-pa-nogs
and San-pitches are much more disposed to agricultural pursuits than the Uintahs, and their
influence in this respect will be advantageous. All the Utahs are now well disposed and de-
sirous of peace, although some months since there was much danger of a general outbreak,
as is more fully detailed in another portion of this report. The Pah-Vants are also favorably
disposed to agricultural pursuits. Their chief, Ranosh, is a most worthy and reliable man,
and with his tribe will probably be removed to the Uintah Valley reservation during the
coming year. Early in the spring I procured to be ploughed for these Indians, at Cora creek
and Deseret, about twenty-five acres of land, and furnished to them seed grain, potatoes,
and corn. They have taken the entire care of the crop, and have raised several hundred
bushels of wheat, corn, and potatoes, which will greatly assist them during the coming win-
ter. The country now occupied by the Pah-Vants is destitute of game, nearly all that por-
tion not a desert being occupied by settlements, and it is necessary to furnish to them a
considerable amount of provisions at all seasons of the year.

THE PAH-EDES.

The country occupied by these Indians is almost a desert. They are disposed to follow
agricultural pursuits, cultivating small tracts of corn and potatoes. They are the poorest
Indians in the Territory, and it is necessary for them to be in great part supported by the
government and the settlers. They will be located on a reservation without difficulty so
soon as the advantages of that system can be practically demonstrated. They occupy nearly
all the southern half of the Territory, and are all friendly.

THE PAH-UTES.

These Indians range principally in the southwestern portion of Utah and the southeastern
portion of Nevada. They closely resemble the Pah-Edes, with whom they constantly mingle
and intermarry. They are equally destitute and in need of aid. Some trouble occurred be-
tween a small band of these Indians and a party of miners at Pahranagat valley, origina-
ting in some of the whites, under false pretences, dispossessing the Indians of a small val-
ley where they had been accustomed to raise corn. The Indians stole several horses in
retaliation. The miners pursued and killed four Indians, after which peace was again es-
tablished. No whites were killed. With this exception the tribe has been friendly, and in
this instance the fault was entirely that of the whites,

EDUCATION AND WEALTH.

There are no schools of any kind yet established among the Indians in Utah. The wealth
of the Indians consists almost entirely in horses, of which some bands have a considerable
number. No accurate report can be made in respect to the number owned by the different
bands, but from the best information I can obtain I should place it as follows :

Eastern bands of Shoshones 500

Northwestem bands of Shoshones 100

Weber-Utes 50

Goships 20

Utahs.. 400

Total number of horses 1,070

The horses are all of the breed usually known as Mustangs, being very small, but capa-
ble of great endurance. Their average value would be probably about 30, making the
wealth of the tribe in the Territory $32,100.

INDIAN HOSTILITIES.

A small band of outlaws, under the command of a chief named Black Hawk, have been
engaged in hostilities for nearly two years. Their number did not at first exceed fifty men,
and in the various skirmishes which have taken place, nearly that number have been killed,
but accessions have been continually had from among the more reckless Indians of the dif-
ferent bands, so that their number has increased to about sixty men. They have made raids
upon several of the small and defenceless settlements in the southern portion of the Territory
for the purpose of stealing cattle and horses, fighting when pursued by the settlers, who
sought to recover their stock. During the present year they have made two such raids upon
the settlements of Salina and Round valley, stealing in each instance nearly two hundred
cattle and horses. I applied in April last to the officer in command of the United States
forces at Camp Douglas, in this Territory, asking him to station one or tw^o companies of sol-
diers in the southeastern portion of the Territory to protect the settlers. He was not able
to do so, however, as he was expecting that all his command, being volunteers, would shortly

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCE 125

be mustered out of service. The settlers raised some two hundred men from various parts
of the Territory, who were stationed at the more exposed points, since which time no further
depredations have been committed. I have made several trips to different parts of the Terri-
tory, accompanied by Indian guides, in the endeavor to have an interview with Black Hawk,
but have been unable, as yet, to meet him. I have also sent several Indian runners to find
and endeavor to induce him to meet me, and have recently received assurance that he was
indisposed to further hostilities, and willing and anxious for peace. I expect to meet him at
some point within the coming one or two months, and think no further trouble need be
apprehended from him or his band.

San Pitch, chief of the band of Indians known as San Pitches, was one of the signers
of the treaty made during the summer of 1865, at Spanish Fork. He was, in March last,
accused of having furnished Black Hawk with a quantity of ammunition, and was, with
several of his principal men, arrested by the settlers on such charge. A guard was placed
over the prisoners at Manti, in San Pete county. Their squaws, who were allowed to visit
them, secreted knives about their persons and gave them to the Indians. San Pitch then
attacked the guard, and in the fracas which ensued escaped, although he was so severely
wounded that he died a few days after. He was a bad Indian, and, from investigations I
have since made, I am satisfied that he had been for a long time furnishing Black Hawk
with ammunition, and also advising him as to the most feasible points for stealing cattle.
He was, however, a relative of Tabby, the chief of the Uintah Utahs, and his death caused
great excitement throughout the tribe. The Uintahs were previously somewhat ill-disposed
from the non-reception of their presents, and from the fact that almost no provisions had
been furnished them during the winter. The winter was one of unusual severity, and they
had nearly perished of starvation. Agent L. B. Rinney, in charge at the Uintah agency,
was guilty of gross neglect of duty, and had expended the liberal appropriation made by the
government in such a manner as to be of almost no benefit to the Indians. The Indians
were greatly exasperated against him from his having made countless promises to them which
were not fulfilled. The causes above named united in producing much ill-feeling among
the Indians, who prepared for a general war. Large numbers were assembled in Uintah val-
ley. The laborers at the Indian farm were much alarmed and left the reservation. Matters
stood thus in March last, when I assumed the duties of superintendent. Agent Rinney
was shortly after relieved, and I sent Thomas Carter, esq., to the reservation as special agent,
with a few laborers, to commence work on the farm. I assured the Indians that as soon as
it was possible to cross the mountains with teams I would visit them, and distribute an
abundance of presents and provisions, and explain to them the intentions of the government.
In May I started accordingly, with four wagons loaded with goods and flour. Ex-Governor
Brig-ham Young sent out at the same time some seventy beef cattle, as a present to the
Indians. I reached the valley with much difficulty, owing to the high water and deep snow
in the mountains. After remaining nearly two weeks, holding numerous councils with the
Indians, everything was arranged on a basis mutually satisfactory. The Indians were con-
vinced that all the promises on the part of the government would be kept, and have since
conducted themselves with entire propriety.

From the foregoing general statement of the present condition of our Indians, it will be
seen that matters, so far as regards the preservation of the peace, are now upon an exceed-
ingly satisfactory basis. The promptness and energy displayed on the part of the Indian
department in forwarding the goods for the coming year by early mule trains, which reached
this point early in September, will greatly promote the efficiency of the service. The goods
for the coming year were purchased at much lower rates than have heretofore been paid, and
although still insufficient for the needs of the service, except in cases before named, where
specific treaty stipulations have been made with the different tribes, will go far toward
making the Indians comfortable during the coming winter. There' will still be a necessity
for the distribution of a large amount of provisions during the winter, as the Indians are
extremely poor, and, like other people, will steal before they will starve.

THE UINTAH AGENCY.

Owing to the lack of funds, but little has been done during the present season toward pre-
paring the Uintah valley to be the home for all the Utah tribes ot Indians, as is contemplated
by the various acts of Congress relative to the subject. Nothing had been previously done
toward making a farm at the agency. Special Agent Carter has accomplished all that could
have been done in the limited time and with the means available. Some twenty-five acres
of land have been cleared from thick sage bushes, ploughed, enclosed with a substantial fence,
and 'put into crops of wheat, corn, potatoes, turnips, carrots, &c. ; irrigation ditches have
been constructed to water the whole, and the crops, except corn, are excellent. The valley
is admirably adapted for both cultivation and grazing. The Indians have performed con-
siderable labor at the farm, and shown great aptitude as herdsmen. It will doubtless be
found more advantageous and economical to furnish them with stock, and to train them to
its care and management, than to engage in extensive farming operations.- A specific appro-
priation should be made for this agency for the coming year ; no provision whatever was
made for the current year, and the expenses at the agency have been defrayed from the fund

126 UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

for incidental expenses, which was before insufficient to meet the demand upon it. This
fund should be almost entirely expended in the purchase of provisions to furnish the Indians
during the winter, when they cannot support themselves, and are dependent, in a great
measure, upon the bounty of the government and the settlers.

My experience with Indians in this Territory has satisfied me that by judicious manage-
ment no trouble will be had in maintaining with them the most peaceful relations. I have
never been among any people who appreciate more highly any exhibition of kindness and
good will. I have known no instance of difficulty between them and the whites in which
the Indians were the aggressors. They realize fully the power of the government, and would
at all times greatly prefer to remain at peace. In this, as in the other newer Territories, are
numerous reckless and unprincipled adventurers, who, for purposes of traffic, will sometimes
give the Indians whiskey, or will sometimes shoot an Indian from sheer wantonness, and
thus cause the lives of innocent \vhites to be taken in retaliation for their acts. Fewer oc-
currences of this nature, however, transpire here than in any other Territory, owing to the
fact that the people of this Territory are almost entirely engaged in agricultural pursuits.
The most entire tranquillity can be preserved among the Indians in this Territory if they be
treated by the government with kindness and liberality. A bale of blankets or a sack of
flour will accomplish more than its weight in gold expended in prosecuting military opera-
tions against the Indians. It is, too, infinitely more in accordance with the spirit of our insti-
tutions and our professions of Christianity aud civilization as a people to treat these poor and
ignorant wards of the nation with a spirit of enlightened charity, than to put in practice the
doctrine of military surveillance and extermination, which is worthy of the darkest ages of
the race. Within a comparatirely short period, with proper management, the Indians of
this Territory can be made nearly self-supporting, and may look forward to a future of
peace, comfort, and tranquillity, in entire subordination to law.

I should be doing injustice to my own feelings did I fail to mention in this report the cor-
dial co-operation I have at all times experienced from all the principal Mormons throughout
the Territory. In the execution of my official duties I have been obliged often to ask their
assistance and co-operation, and in no instance have I failed to receive the most cheerful and
hearty aid.

I transmit herewith an estimate for the necessary appropriations for the service during the
coming year.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. H. READ,
Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon, D. 1ST. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs.

No. 35.

FORT BRIDGER AGENCY, September 15, 1866.

SIR: In compliance with the regulations of the Indian department, I have the honor to
submit the following report relative to the affairs of this agency:

About the 20th of September, 1865, the season being far advanced and game scarce, the
Shoshones immediately set out for their winter hunting grounds across the mountains, if
possible to reach there before the snow fell.

The whole tribe accompanied Chief Washakee thither, with the exception of five or ten
lodges, who passed the winter on Green river, about fifty miles from here, Avhere they sub-
sisted on the small game there to be found, and making no demands upon me for assistance.
The main portion of the tribe proceeded to the valleys of the Pawpawgee and Wind rivers,
where they spent the winter hunting the buffalo, deer, elk, and mountain sheep. They pro-
cured during the season upwards of one thousand buffalo robes and a few dressed skins of
other named animals, a much larger collection than during any previous year. They also
secured a good supply of dried meat. Although the past was the severest winter on record
for the past ten years, the Indians of my agency never fared better nor looked so fat and
healthy as they did on their arrival here this summer, proving conclusively that they had fared
sumptuously every day. Such well-fed Indians could not be otherwise than healthy, so that
the mortality among them has fallen far below the average.

I did not have a favorable opportunity for taking the census of the tribe this year, but
estimate the number of Shoshones at nineteen hundred. Aside from the natural increase
by births, which has not fallen short of former years, there has been a considerable addition
from neighboring tribes. About four hundred Bannocks, under a chief named Tahgay, (a
very worthy Indian, and in whom I fully repose confidence,) who have been residing in
the vicinity of Soda Springs and along the Snake river, passed over into the Wind River val-
ley and located themselves adjacent to the Shoshones, with whom they are at peace. They
also accompanied the Shoshones on their visit to this agency, and, from all that I can learn
of them, I think they desire to be on the most friendly terms with the whites. I did not have
any presents for them, and was informed that they had not received any from the Great

UTAH StPERINTENDENCY. 127

Father in times past. The neglect, if any, must be owing to their being so far removed from
any agency. I supplied them, however, with a few articles of food for their immediate wants
out of my own pocket, and would recommend that such provision be made for them in future
that they too may receive a share of the annuity goods with their neighbors, the Shoshones.

These Bannocks will undoubtedly return to this agency once or twice during the year.

The supply of presents for the Indians of this agency reached me in due time, was ample in
quantity, and gave universal satisfaction.

Shortly before the distribution I had the pleasure of meeting, in company with Superintend-
ent Head, Washakee and his chiefs in council, on which occasion the superintendent made
them a speech, and the best of good feeling prevailed. Washakee has lately received, under
the pledge of friendship from the^President, a fine large silver medal, beariug the image and
superscription of the Great Fathe'r.

There were present at the distribution about one hundred and fifty Utes from the Uintah
agency, who came for the purpose of trading with their neighbors, the Shoshones. Some of
my Indians were dilatory in coming in this season, but I did not distribute the goods until
all, or nearly all, had arrived. The cause of this delay is the scarcity of game and the con-
sequent difficulty in maintaining an independent sustenance at this post, for they have but
little money to buy food with. I would here observe that the location of this agency is a bad
one, and for this reason : the Indians are obliged to come a long way from their hunting
grounds to receive their presents, and by the time they reach me their stock of provisions is
well-nigh exhausted, and for them to maintain themselves in this vicinity without an abund-
ance of game is an impossibility, and discourages some from coming at all. I would there-
fore recommend that a portion of their annuities be given them in money, to enable them to
defray the expenses of subsistence during their visit at this agency.

In this connexion I would again recommend the plan of locating this tribe upon a perma-
nent reservation and establishing thereon an agency, and make such other arrangements as I
have heretofore suggested for improving their condition.

The valley of the Wind River mountains is the territory which the tribe have selected for
their home, and this is the place where such a reservation should be set apart and an agency
established.

The country abounds in game, has a very mild climate, and possesses agricultural advan-
tages which make it a great desideratum to the white man. Numerous oil springs have
been discovered and located in the valley of the Pawpawgee, but this tribe are strongly op-
posed to any invasion of their territory by the whites.

I greatly fear that these mineral and agricultural resources of the country will turn out to
be a bone of contention between the whites and the reds, and would therefore urge that the
tribe have a reservation staked out which may be held sacred to them, and not be encroached
upon by the whites.

Several of our citizens are looking toward the Wind River country with a view to its
development, and I give you a few extracts from a letter written by one who passed the win-
ter and a part of the spring in the valley. He says : " The air is pure, the water of the best,
the climate mild and regular. The soil is not second in fertility to that of Illinois or Iowa,
farming land enough to support a population of two hundred thousand persons, the climate
well adapted to the growth of small grain and fruit, especially apples and vegetables. There
is plenty of timber for building and fencing purposes. The scenery is most beautiful and
picturesque. There are two oil springs in the ralley, one of which pours forth one hundred
barrels per day. There are good indications of stone-coal and iron, with numerous quarries
of limestone suitable for building purposes. The foot-hills and valleys are covered, winter
and summer, with a luxuriant growth of nutritious grass, making the finest grazing region
west of the Missouri. The mountains give indications of mineral deposits. But little snow
fell, and what did fall soon disappeared. Stock can be wintered without any feeding. Buf-
falo, and other game, abounds," &c., &c.

As long as our Indian tribes are permitted an existence in the land, I contend that they
should have a territory assigned them where they can procure a living, instead of being
driven away to the poorest tracts of country, where a white man, with all of his superior
knowledge, would fail to make a living. Washakee and his tribe deserve a permanent and
exclusive reservation in the valley of the Wind river, and I pray you to let them have it at
once. The subject demands serious attention, and I hope it will receive a proper considera-
tion. The Indian must be reclaimed from his wild ways, or he will continue to be an ex-
pense to the country so long as he lives ; and no plan of rendering him a self-supporting and
law-abiding citizen is so effectual as that one which civilizes, educates, and christianizes
him, and this work cannot be done save on a reservation.

The Shoshones have not been engaged in any warfare, offensive or defensive, during the
past year with neighboring tribes, have been at peace among themselves, and, I am proud
to say, continue faithful to their treaty stipulations.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

LUTHER MANN JR.,

United States Indian Agent.

Hon. F. H. HEAD,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Salt Lake City, U. T.

128 UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 36.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS, UTAH,

Great Salt Lake City, August 13, 1866.

SIR: Washakee, the chief of the eastern bands of Shoshones, with some three hundred
of his men, came in a few days since to make me a visit. He wears about his neck the
medal which you sent him by Judge Carter, of Fort Bridger, and with which he is exceed-
ingly pleased. The enclosed photograph was taken at the time of his visit, and is a very
good likeness. He is by far the noblest-looking Indian I have ever seen, and his record is
untarnished by a single mean action. In your last report you recommended that'medals be
given Washakee and Ranosh, chief of the Pfih-Vants, who is equally deserving of such a
testimonial. If possible, I beg you will send me a medal to be presented to Ranosh ; I shall
visit his tribe in about six weeks, if the new goods arrive when I expect them, and would
like to take it with me. It could be safely transmitted by maiL
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. H. HEAD,

Superintendent.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 37.

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCY,

Great Salt Lake City, April 30, 1866.

SIR: Black Hawk, a somewhat prominent chief of the Utah Indians, has been engaged
for more than a year past in active hostilities against the settlements in the southern portion
of this territory. His band consisted at first of but forty- four men, who were mostly out-
laws and desperate characters from his own and other tribes. During the summer and
autumn of 1865 he made several successful forays upon the weak and unprotected settle-
ments in San Pete and Sevier counties ; killed in all thirty-two whites, and drove away to
the mountains upwards of two thousand cattle and horses.

Forty of his warriors were killed by the settlers in repelling his different attacks. His
success in stealing, however, enabled him to feed abundantly and mount all Indians who
joined him, and the prestige acquired by his raids was such that his numbers were constantly
on the increase, despite his occasional losses of men. He spent the winter near where the
Grand and Green rivers unite to form the Colorado. On the 20th instant he again com-
menced his depredations by making an attack upon Salina, a small settlement in Sevier
county. He succeeded in driving to the mountains about two hundred cattle, killing two
men who were guarding them, and compelling the abandonment of the settlement.

His band, from what I consider entirely reliable information, now numbers one hundred
warriors, one- half of whom are Navajoes from New Mexico. I am very apprehensive that
unless Black Hawk is severely chastised, an Indian war of considerable magnitude may be
inaugurated. He has never yet met with a serious reverse, having always attacked small
settlements or unprotected families. He has thus acquired a considerable reputation among
the various Indian tribes, and I fear many of the more adventurous will join him from the
bands now friendly. The ill-feeling engendered by the death of San Pitch, and by the
nearly starving condition of the Indians on the Uintah reservation, concerning which I had
the honor to address you on the 23d instant, \vill tend to promote this result.

In view of these circumstances, and for the purpose of preventing accessions to the ranks
of the hostile Indians, I have, after consultation with Governor Durkee, desired Colonel
Potter, commanding the United States troops in this district, to send two or three companies
of soldiers to that portion of the Territory to protect the settlements and repel further attacks.
I have also sent Indian runners to have an interview with Black Hawk, and to urge him to
meet me for the purpose of establishing a permanent peace. I have little hope, however,
that he will do this, at least before he is defeated, with the loss of some portion of his war-
riors, as he has heretofore been boldly defiant, rejecting with scorn all overtures for peace.
Colonel Potter has telegraphed to General Dodge for instructions in reference to my appli-
cation. I should be much pleased to have an expression of your views as to the policy to be
further pursued in this matter.

Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

F, H. HEAD,

Superintendent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington D C

UTAH SUPERINTENDENCE * 129

No. 38,

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, UTAH,

Great Salt Lake City, June 21, 1866.

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 30th May, approving my
course thus far relative to the acts of the hostile Utah chief Black Hawk. Immediately, sub-
sequent to my communication of April 30, 1 started for Corn creek, which is one of the nearest
settlements to the scenes of Black Hawk's most recent depredations, and near which Kanosh,
with many of his principal men, was encamped. Kanosh is chief of the Pah Vents, and is
one of the most thoroughly reliable Indians in the Territory. I took with me some presents,
which I distributed to the Pah Vents. I engaged as special interpreter, and sent two or
three days in advance of myself, Mr. R. K. James, who was for several years the United
States interpreter at Spanish Fork reservation, and whose influence with Black Hawk and his
principal men, owing to his personal acquaintance with them for many years, I judged might
be of value to me in procuring the desired interview. Mr. James carried a letter to Kanosh
from me, asking him to furnish two or three Indians to accompany him to the mountains to
find Black Hawk. Kanosh responded at once to my request, but the party returned after an
absence of four days with the intelligence that Black Hawk, instead of being fifty miles dis-
tant, as I had been advised, was over four hundred miles away, in a southeast direction,
having gone to endeavor to procure recruits from among the Elk Mountain Utes, the most
powerful tribe in the Territory, who can bring into the field upwards of four thousand war-
riors. I thereupon sent several Indian runners out upon the trail which Black Hawk would
take when he returned towards the settlement, asking him to name a place where he would
meet me, and talk of peace. Kanosh also seconded my views, sending to Black Hawk, by
the runners, strong recommendations that he meet me and make a permanent peace.

Various rumors that I had heard from the Indians in Uinta valley, together with some facts
communicated to me by Kanosh, made me extremely apprehensive that all the Utah Indians
except Kanosh's tribe would join in a general war upon the settlers. The San Pitch Indians,
and the various bands known under the general appellation of Goshen Indians, were greatly
exasperated at the death of San Pitch, and had all left their usual haunts, and gone over the
mountains to the Uinta valley. The Indians in that valley were much disaffected at the non-
reception of their presents last fall, which was owing to their not having arrived here in
season to be transported to the valley before winter set in. They were still more enraged at
not having been fed during the winter, and the winter being an unusually severe one, many
had nearly perished of starvation, and a great part of their animals had perished.

The expenses of the saw-mill at the agency, of cutting hay, &c., had been so great that
nothing was left of the appropriation to be expended for the benefit of the Indians. As I
stated to Mr. Kinney, I consider the trouble which grew out of the starvation and nakedness
of the Indians entirely attributable to Congress, which failed to make a sufficient appropria-
tion. The appropriation made, although apparently a liberal one, was barely sufficient to
satisfy the wants of Agent Kinney and his friends, and nothing at all was left for the Indians,
who were somewhat foolishly annoyed at the seeming inequality of the division.

The Indians were also greatly disappointed that nothing had been done towards cultivating
the farm which had been promised them in the Uinta valley. They claimed that they had
sold their farm at Spanish Fork and their claim to other lands to the government in consid-
eration that a good farm be made for them at Uinta valley, but that no preparation had been
made for fulfilling the promises on the part of the government. To quiet this source of dis-
affection, as well as because I considered it would be pecuniarily advantageous, I had sent, about
the middle of April, four laborers to Uinta, under charge of Special Agent Thomas Carter, with
instructions to clear up, plough, and put into wheat, com, carrots, potatoes, &c., as much
land as possible I might here siate that Mr. Carter has accomplished much in the way of
farming for the limited time and labor at his command, having cleared from the thick sage
bushes, ploughed, fenced, and irrigated some twenty-five acres of land, the crops upon which
are looking very well, and will, I think, more than repay the outlay upon the land.

The Uinta valley is practically inaccessible from the 1st of December to the 1st of June, or
thereabouts of each year, owing to the deep snow upon the mountain ranges which it is neces-
sary to cross to enter the valley. I have sent word to the Indians by Special Agent Carter,
who with the other laborers crossed the mountains on snow shoes, that as soon as the snow
had melted sufficiently to permit the passage of wagons 1 would visit them, and make them
liberal presents of clothing, food, &c., and urged them especially to wait and do nothing of an
unfriendly nature until I had had an interview with them. Owing to their repeated disappoint-
ments relative to their presents, I did not deem it an object to visit them in person until I
could carry with me their goods.

While at Corn creek I learned that the Uinta Indians had at length commenced hostilities
by a raid from Uinta valley upon Springfield, carrying away some 150 horses and mules, and
also, two or three days later, by a similar raid upon Heber City, from which settlement they
took nearly 100 cattle and horses. I, therefore, at once decided to visit the Uinta valley.
Kanosh, at my request, directed three of his principal sub-chiefs to accompany me, and to do
what lay in their power to prevent further trouble.
9c 1

130 UTAH SUPER1NTENDENCY.

I returned to this city with the Indians, and, after a trip of four days northward to recover
twenty-five horses stolen by the Weber Utes from Kanosh, set out for Uinta, carrying with
me the principal part of the goods turned over to roe by Superintendent Irish.

I set out with the goods in wagons lightly loaded and drawn by four mules each, but on
reaching Heber City found the trail over the mountains entirely impassable for miles by reason
of high water and deep mud. I therefore transferred the goods to four wagons, each drawn
by six oxen, and, after a delay of three or four days, owing to a severe storm, set out for
Uinta by what is known as the Daniel's Canon route. An idea had become prevalent
among the Indians that the Mormons were designing to make war upon them, and to remove
this impression Brigharn Young sent to them as a present seventy head of beef-cattle. The
people of Heber City, at the request of Brigham Young, also furnished gratuitously twenty-
five men to assist in getting the wagons over the mountains. It was a most difficult and
even perilous trip ; the water in the streams was very high, the mud, and in many places the
snow was very deep, and we were continually interrupted by violent storms of snow, rain,
and hail. The mqn and oxen, however, often laboring together, at length pulled the wagons
through and over all obstacles, and we reached the valley.

I was greatly indebted to the people at Heber City for their efficient co-operation, both in
furnishing men, as before referred to, and in furnishing teams to transport the goods at an
extremely moderate price.

Interpreter James and the Indians sent by Kanosh reached the valley several days before
me, and, finding the Indians had all started southward, followed and overtook them, noti-
fied them of my approach, and induced them to return. I spent eight days at the agency,
holding numerous councils with the Indians. They were at first extremely surly and dis-
affected, but, being at length satisfied that the government had fulfilled all its promises and
more ; that the delay in the reception of presents was unavoidable ; that Mr. Kinney was no
longer in the service, and that hereafter they would get all that was sent them from Wash-
ington, their views were entirely changed, and they expressed themselves unanimously in
favor of peace. A part of the stolen property was returned, and the greater portion of the
remainder, not already taken, will, I think, be restored to its owners. A liberal distribution
of presents was made, and I left them in a very friendly mood. I was much pleased with
the result of the conference, and am entirely confident that the Indians will remain friendly.

The morning of my departure I was informed by Tabby, the head chief, that when he re-
ceived notice of my arrival in the valley, himself and all his warriors were on their way to
join the hostile Indians, in the southern portion of the Territory, in their war upon the settle-
ments. He also informed me that Black Hawk, having secured a sufficient number of
recruits among the Elk Mountain Utes to swell his force to three hundred warriors, was then
setting out from the Elk Mountain country to attack the weaker settlements in San Pete
county.

I advised you, in my communication of the 30th April, that I had applied to the military
authorities to send two or three companies of troops to protect the settlers in those portions of
the Territory most exposed to Indian raids, and that Colonel Potter, commanding at this
point, had telegraphed for instructions. A copy of the response to such communication is
herewith enclosed.

On reaching this city on my return from Uinta, I communicated the facts in my possession
relative to Black Hawk to Governor Durkee. General Wells, one of the principal militia
officers, after consulting with the governor, has raised two or three companies of militia, and
proceeded to the threatened locality to protect the settlers from the expected attack.

I have now several Indian runners in the mountains who will see Black Hawk and urge
him to meet me for the purpose of making peace, and I shall within a few days proceed to
San Pete county to endeavor to further that object.

I have written you at length in regard to the present state of our Indian matters in accord-
ance with the suggestions in your communication of the 30th ultimo, and when any further
progress is made will advise you at once.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. H. HEAD, Superintendent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner .Indian A fairs.

FORT LEAVEN\V ORTH, KANSAS,

May 2, 1866.

General Pope telegraphs that the Superintendent of Indian Affairs will have to depend for
the present on the militia to compel the Indians to behave at Selina.
By command of Major General Dodge.

SAMUEL E. MACKEY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant General.
Colonel CARROLL H. POTTER,

Commanding District of Utah.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY. 131

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, UTAH,

Great Salt Lake City, September 29, 1866.

SIR : In your last annual report is a recommendation that the salaries of the various agents
and superintendents be increased. The suggestion is an excellent one and will, I trust, be
again urged upon the attention of Congress. An additional reason to those suggested in
your report has occurred to me, to which I beg to call your attention. The Indians, far
more than civilized people, are influenced by the personal views and wishes of those in whom
they have confidence. An agent or superintendent who has been sufficiently long with his
particular tribes to know personally the greater portion of the Indians, if he pursues with
them an upright course, can acquire an influence ovei their actions almost without limit; it
is of the highest importance, therefore, not only that appointees be men of integrity, but they
be retained as long as possible in their particular situations.

A new oflicer, with the best intentions, will be months or even years in acquiring the per-
sonal influence necessary to the highest success in the discharge of his duties. As the ser-
vice is at present organized an agent will often either by stealing endeavor to make his
compensation sufficient, in which case he will have no influence over his Indians, who are
sufficiently shrewd to detect such wrongs, or he will become dissatisfied with the service and
retire ; in either event the efficiency of the service is greatly impaired by the continued
changes of agents.

The salary of the superintendent should be doubled; that of agents increased to at least
$2,500. This is a greater difference between the relative salaries than now exists, but for this
there are sufficient reasons : the duties of a superintendent are much more onerous, his re-
sponsibilities are much greater. In my own case, in addition to the usual duties of a super-
intendent, I am required to perform the duties of an agent for more than two-thirds of the
Indians in the Territory ; the principal reason, however, for the greater discrimination con-
sists in the fact that agents are usually located upon reservations where laborers are employed
and boarded, and where they board, with other employ6s of the department, free of expense,
while superintendents must pay their own expenses of every character.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. H. HEAD, Superintendent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 40.
Report of Special Agent J. K. Graves.

DEAR SIR : I have the honor to submit herewith a detailed report of the Indian affairs of
New Mexico the result of personal observation during niy recent visit to that Territory
made in accordance with the instructions received by me from your department, under date
of September 12, 1865. I completed my arrangements, and was ready to commence my
official duties October first, but, owing to unforeseen circumstances over whick I had no con-
trol, did not leave Fort Leavenworth for the toilsome journey across the plains until Novem-
ber sixth, following. A severe snow storm overtook and detained us at Fort Aubrey for
several days, and no sooner had we resumed our travels than the weather became most in-
tensely cold so intense as to freeze one of my feet, but fortunately not severely. We re-
mained at Fort Lyon for several days, hoping the weather would moderate, but found our-
selves doomed to disappointment, and forced to re-encounter the raging storm. At the Ar-
kansas crossing, near Bent's old fort, we were compelled to cut a. channel through the ice
before we could cross our ambulance to the opposite shore ; from thenceforward we encoun-
tered no serious obstacle, save the loss by death of two of our mules. We reached Santa Fe
at about twelve o'clock December 30, 1865, and were most courteously received by the
citizens.

I found the Indian question the all absorbing topic of conversation among the entire com-
munity ; each individual seemed to have peculiar ideas on the subject, and freely announced
and advocated them. The main controversy seemed to be upon the selection of the Bosque
Kedondo reservation as a permanent home for the Navajoes, and while very many favored,
others opposed this policy, as being detrimental to the interests of the Territory ; and from this
stand-point the whole matter seemed to drift off into a question of political expediency which,
while it engulphed the primary cause of this party feeling, and recognized the Bosque ques-
tion solely as a party measure, supplied all absence of argument by the most violent and
partizan denunciations of men rather than of principle or expediency.

In some of the most prominent instances I soon found that the opponents of the Bosqut
system were actuated by personal feelings of dislike towards the military commander of the
department of New Mexico, having in fact never seen the Bosque Kedondo reservation.

132 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

Under these circumstances you will readily understand and appreciate the embarrassment of
my situation. However, I assured the citizens and the legislative assembly then in session,
and to whom (as also to the military commander, General Carleton, his excellency Governor
Connolly, Secretary Arny and others) I submitted my letter of instructions, that I visited
them unbiassed in opinion, and solicited their hearty co-operation, and assured them that I
should seek facts with an unprejudiced eye, and base my report to you in accordance with
nothing but the facts impartially and unreservedly.

The legislative assembly passed a series of very complimentary resolutions relative to the
general government and its officers, which 1 have included in the following pages.

I conceive it to be the imperative duty of the department over which you have the honor to
preside, to adopt energetic measures of improvement and reform in all that relates to the
Indian affairs of this Territory. Although Indian depredations have been committed for
years, and the people are loud in their complaints against the red men, and the Indian ques-
tion bears in the minds of the masses of community the same varying phases noticed in the
changing forms of the kaleidoscope, and though in fact the direct road to the peaceful solution
of all these matters would seem to be surmounted with difficulties, yet in fact the whole matter
is susceptible of easy adjustment, as I trust the result of my investigations will assure you.

I had arranged to furnish in connexion with my report a series of photographic views illus-
trative of this section of country, but owing to the inclemency of the weather during my
sojourn in the Territory I was unable to do this, save in a few instances, but hope to furnish
you with complete illustrations of the Indians and their houses, &c., ere many weeks shall
have elapsed.

In order that you may the more fully observe the connecting link in the history of the
Indians, and note the important results destined to inure to this section by reason of a
thorough reformation of the Indian affairs of the Territory, I have included a brief history ot
New Mexico, gathered from territorial archives, the people, and from published works on this
section of country.

My correspondence with the legislature, the superintendent of Indian affairs, together with
the several agents located in the Territory, as also other documents relating to the objects of
my mission, will be found under the appropriate heading.

I found it impossible, for several reasons, to count the number of Indians in each band, but
feel sure that my estimate respecting them exceeds rather than falls below the actual number.

Although the Pueblo Indians are under charge of the superintendent like the other tribes,
still, as will appear by reference to my detailed report under the appropriate head, they are
as distinct in all their habits and customs as light and darkness ; and, as the department is
aware, are self-sustaining. Hence, although these Pueblos tend to increase the "number of
Indians" in numerical strength, they in reality belong to the "people of the country," and,
properly speaking, should be included with the citizens rather than the Indians. This race
of Indians, like very many of the people of the southern portion of the Territory, manufacture
considerable wine from the native grape, which grows here to the full perfection of quality and
size. * *

By reference to my report on the Utah Indians, it will be noticed that I have recommended
their removal to the reservation recently selected in Colorado for the Tobequache and other
bands of this tribe. From the report of Mr. John G. Nicolay, secretary to the commission
appointed to treat with the Utahs of Colorado, I am satisfied the reservation determined upon
by them is amply sufficient to include also the several bands of this tribe who now belong to
the supErintendency of New Mexico; in fact, these bands, viz : Webrinoche, 700 ; Capote, 800;
and Maquoches, 600, formerly lived most of their time in Colorado, and the two first named
bands still spend most of their time in that Territory.

Of the whole number given above as constituting these bands, I have reason to believe
that not more than one-half, or at most three-fourths of the Capote and Webrinoches visit
their agency at Abiquin, but subsist in some manner in the Colorado Territory near by, and
owing to this fact, as also the immediate proximity of Abiquin, the present agency of the
Capote and Webrinoche Utahs, to the aforesaid Colorado reservation, the removal of these two
bands can be easily effected. Although, as will be noticed in my report on the Moquache
Utahs, they favor a reservation, yet dislike to leave their present home on the Cimaron river,
still, with a little management these Indians would very readily locate with the other bands.
If, in view of the avowed objections raised by the Capote and Webrinoche Utahs to their
settlement upon a reservation, it should be deemed impolitic at this time to inaugurate such a
movement tending to their concentration, I would recommend that the agency at Abiquin be
dispensed with and a new one opened at Terra Amarilla, which, besides being near the Colo-
rado line and a long step towards the proposed reservation, is also sufficiently remote from
the settlements to insure greater peace and tranquillity than is enjoyed by the people under
the present location of this agency. And as I can see no possible reason Avhy these Capote
and Webrinoche bands should have a sub-agent, I would further recommend that this office
be abolished at once. The annual salary now paid the said sub-agent would be of far greater
service expended for clothing or implements for these Indians than it can possibly be under
the present arrangement.

Whether it is better to make one journey with the Utahs, and see them immediately located
oil the Colorado reservation, or whether, in view of other changes in the Indian affairs of

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENT. 133

New Mexico, requiring care and attention, it would be more advisable at this time to change
the agency merely to Terra Amarilla, I leave you to determine.

I have, as will be noticed by reference to my report on the Apaches, recommended their con-
centration upon the reservation selected by M. Steck, esq., while superintendent of Indian
affairs in New Mexico, located upon the Gila river, and extending across the territorial line into
Arizona. The only band of Apaches now living within the boundary of New Mexico are the
Icavillas, dwelling at the Cimarron with the Maquoche Utahs, and numbering 800 persons.
The Mincalero baud ran away from the Bosque Redondo reservation, November 3, 1865 ; while
the Gilas have never really inhabited this Territory, but the adjoining one of Arizona. I believe
the proposed reservation is amply sufficient to place not only the Apaches of this, but also
those of Arizona Territory upon it, and the reservation lies in both these Territories.

For the Pueblos, as will be noticed, I have recommended an appropriation for the purchase
of school-books and the employment of competent teachers to conduct and carry on a system
of education amongst these people, who would be largely benefited thereby. And I have
also recommended an appropriation for the purchase of agricultural implements, household
utensils, grist-mills, and fruit trees, which would be of incalculable service, and comfort, and
tend to facilitate the advancement of this interesting race. Government, while spending
millions of money in fighting hostile Indians, should remember the peaceable disposition of
the Pueblos of New Mexico, and generously assist their well directed efforts. As a race
they are the most interesting of all the Indian tribes of the United States, and the fact of their
being self-supporting and peaceable rather than warlike, should be sufficient argument in
favor of their immediate assistance by an assortment of implements and utensils, as briefly
enumerated.

For the Navajoes I have recommended the Bosque Redondo reservation as their permanent
home ; the appropriation now asked in further support of this tribe will, in my opinion, be
amply sufficient to enable them to support themselves hereafter. With the Navajoes thus
located at the Bosque Redondo reservation, the Apaches at the proposed reservation on the
Gila river, and the Utahs upon the Colorado reservation, and the assistance of the government
kindly extended towards the Pueblos, the troubles connected with the Indians would soon
cease in this Territory. Military posts should, of course, be established at each reservation,
which could easily be done.

Your instructions communicated to an active and efficient superintendent, ably supported
by a corps of intelligent agents, would soon bring all these desired changes about, and hence-
forward the Indian affairs of this Territory would move along with the precision and regu-
larity of clock-work.

If my views respecting the Bosque Redondo reservation as a permanent home for the
Navajoes meet with your approval, I would respectfully suggest that, as tending to detract
from the political complications of the Territory, and thereby accomplishing much good, your
department take occasion to inform the superintendent of Indian affairs in this Territory that
this said reservation has been adopted by goverment, and its continuance or abolition rests
entirely with government, and not with any local party or parties resident in New Mexico.
It is unnecessary for me to dwell upon this branch of the subject ; suffice it to say that the
political parties have often been syled the "Bosque" or " anti-Bosque " party, and, as the
^Navajo problem has been considered to be still in process of solution, this has been a fertile
theme for discussion, and over such discussion some of the bitterest feelings have been en-
gendered between citizens, which probably death alone can remove.

Upon the subject of Indian depredations I have bestowed considerable attention. The
claims for loss of property by the Indians mostly by the Navajoes is very large, and al-
though, as will be noticed in my report, some action should be taken upon this subject, yet
none of these claims should be audited until they shall have been most thoroughly and criti-
cally examined by an experienced board of commissioners ; and whether, in view of the con-
tinued depredations of this nature, though happily very limited as to number and loss sus-
tained, it would be better to adjust these losses now, or defer their settlement until the pro-
posed measures of improvement are successfully inaugurated, you are best able to determine.
That many of these claims are equitable and just, while that there are many entitled to
little or no consideration whatever, I am thoroughly satisfied.

Upon the subject of peonage I have given considerable thought ; and inasmuch as this
pernicious system of slavery still exists to an alarming extent in all parts of the Territory of
New Mexico, government should at once adopt vigorous measures tending to its immediate
abolition. Maximilian, in issuing his decree sanctioning this condition of servitude amongst
the people of old Mexico, aimed to secure the co-operation of those people who, having lived
amidst this system of labor for centuries, disliked much to obey the decree of Juarez, who in-
sisted and insists that all labor is justly entitled to compensation. Upon one hand duty and
patriotism called, while upon the other hand the glittering allurements of pecuniary gain
rireted their attention, when luckily the official correspondence of Secretary Seward was
made public, revealing to old Mexico the fact that the United States would not sanction
slavery in any form. This has proven and will continue to prove far more potent than the
royal edicts of Maximilian, and is felt even in New Mexico, whose people sympathize and
fraternize to a considerable extent with their countrymen in the republic of Mexico ; but the
citizens here, although strictly enjoined to give recompense for all service, will, nevertheless,

134 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

cling tenaciously to their old customs, and unless the government, in adopting a definite policy
relative to this remaining blot upon the otherwise fair scroll of freedom, sends a special power
to the Territory to direct and superintend the practical details of the work of improvement,
the system will continue for years to come, and be marked with all its present degrading ten-
dencies.

A freedmen's bureau, though impolitic and impracticable for this distant section, would,
nevertheless, if established here, result in vast good to the poorer classes ; and, in point of
fact, that the most urgent necessity does now exist in this Territory for some such amelior-
ating agency, no impartial traveller through this section of country can doubt.

The present state of commercial enterprise and agricultural interest in New Mexico is
mainly the result of government disbursements and military operations in that section of
country. The presence of troops has stimulated agriculture, and created a greater demand
for its products than ever before known, while the annual expenditures of this arm of na-
tional service has stimulated the mercantile community, through whose hands much of the
funds disbursed constantly flow. Let the government withhold the purchase of military
supplies, and the paymaster cease for a time the payment of the troops, and New Mexico
would instantly assume an attitude of mourning and of sorrow; for, aside from the govern-
ment, there is no market for the products of the Territory, nor will there be so long as, through
lack of proper energy and enterprise, the vast mineral wealth of the Territory is allowed to
remain in its mountain bed.

I have, as will be noticed, recommended liberal appropriations for the Indian service of
New Mexico, and these appropriations should be made as early as possible so that the im-
plements, goods, wares, and merchandise may reach the Indians before winter. I have
recommended the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars for each of the tribes for whom I have
recommended reservations the Utahs and the Apaches and have suggested how this
amount be used, and have, as you will notice, made no special allusion to the necessary cost
of the removal of these Indians to their proposed reservations. I have omitted this for the
reason that, in my opinion, the inducements which the articles to be purchased by these
amounts would, under direction of proper persons, present, be amply sufficient to concen-
trate these Indians upon their new homes with but trifling expense to government. The
Indians would, most of them, probably follow the train containing the goods, and reach the
reservation simultaneously with it : then, with proper military assistance, they could be re-
tained there. This is the true way to induce these Indians to leave their present homes ;
and in adopting this course it should be borne in mind that the Indians seemingly
consent to the new order of things, BO that they may acquire the presents, and then steal off
to their old hunting grounds. An energetic agent would, with the assistance of a military
force, be able, with patience and perseverance, to locate most of the Indians, and could,
from time to time, capture all those who returned to their former homes, and all this without
trouble or bloodshed ; although under the direction of an incompetent agent the most disas-
trous results might follow such attempt at removal.

I should prove recreant to the duty you have imposed upon me were I to close this com-
munication without bestowing a just tribute upon the wisdom, energy, and indomitable
perseverance with which Major General James H. Carltou has conducted the military de-
partment of New Mexico, with special reference to the Indians of the Territory. Under his
efficient administration the atrocities which formerly marked the daily routine of life in this
section have dwindled into comparative insignificance. He has conquered the greater por-
tion of the powerful Navajo tribe, which for upwards of a century had been a constant
terror to the people, and placed these savages upon the broad road to civilization.

The selection of the Bosque Redondo as a home for, and the location of these Navajoes
upon this reservation, was a wise and laudable undertaking, shifting, as it did, the scenes of
their former barbarisms for the more elevating tendencies of their present home, surrounded
as it is by all the arts of peace, whose victories, as will be acknowledged, in the eventual
civilization of their tribe, are more renowned than war.

A delegation of the headmen from the Navajo and Utah tribes should be invited to visit
Washington and other large cities. Such a trip would reveal to these Indians the vast won-
ders of civilization, the power and grandeur of the United States, and tend to benefit the
red men in very many particulars which I need not mention.

As will be noticed, I relieved the urgent wants of the Pueblo Indians of Isletta, Santa
Domingo, and Santa Ana. These people will, however, require further assistance in the
way of food by the first of May, to the same extent, probably, that I have already supplied
them. .

The Utahs asked for food. In view, however, of their statements as to the abundance of
game, coupled also with the fact that, unless they have been grossly deceived by their agent,
their supply of food should now be ample, I gave them merely a supply of powder, lead,
and percussion caps to the aggregate amount of $285. This will enable this people to pro-
cure an abundance of game.

It will be noticed by reference to the proper voucher that the lead purchased for these In-
dians cost forty cents per pound. This is owing to the fact that this article is brought here
from the States, although immense quantities of the best Galena ore abounds in all parts of
the Territory, yet, for want of proper energy, is suffered to remain undisturbed. If govern-

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDED CY. 135

ment should at any time require any considerable supply of lead for use in this or adjoining
Territories, I would suggest that proposals be published at Santa Fe, and believe that im-
mense quantities would be offered at from five to ten cents per pound, delivered as desired.
The same remarks 'apply, to a certain extent, with equal force to the purchase of blankets
for Indian use in the Terri-tories of New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and the State of Kan-
sas. These articles, purchased in the States and freighted to their destination at considerable
cost, could be manufactured in New Mexico from the immense wool product of the Territory,
which is estimated to reach from a million and a half to two million pounds each year ; and
yet there are no looms or woollen manufactories in this whole section of country. If gov-
ernment could contract with proper parties for a large supply of all-wool blankets, she would
probably save upwards of a quarter of a million dollars each year, and at the same time
clothe the Indians much better than ever before. Indeed, as most of the blankets supplied
to the Territories have cost upwards of $21 per pair, exclusive of transportation, an expendi-
ture for blankets made from the wool raised here would give equally as desirable an article
as to quality and quantity as those blankets purchased in the States, and at not to exceed
one-half the cost of such foreign fabrics. Again, were government to execute such a con-
tract with responsible parties, it would of course insure the immediate establishment of a
woollen mill in this Territory, which would give an impetus to the present inactive state of
commercial enterprise ; and such steps would tend also to attract emigration to this country,
which, by reason of the vast resources of this section, would result in national benefit.

My task has been somewhat laborious. I trust, however, it has been performed in an ac-
ceptable manner, and that the many improvements which I have suggested in the manage-
ment of the Indian affairs of New Mexico will be inaugurated at an early day.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. K. GRAVES,
United States Special Indian Agent for New Mexico.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 41.

ABSTRACT OF PAPERS ACCOMPANYING REPORT OF J. K. GRAVES, SPECIAL AGENT, RELA-
TIVE TO INDIAN AFFAIRS IN NEW MEXICO.

No. 2. Number of Indians.

The following is given as the number of Indians in New Mexico, estimated from the best
sources of information :

Navajoes at Bosque Redondo 6, 447

Navajoes still at large, and hostile 1, 200

Pueblos 7,010

Webinoche Utahs 700

Capote Utahs 350

Maquoche Utahs

Jicarilla Apaches

Mescalero Apaches 550

Mimbres Apaches 200

17,857
Add held as captives or peons 2,000

'19, 857

No. 3. Decrease of Indian population.

In 1846, twenty years ago, the number of Indians in New Mexico was estimated as fol-
lows:

Navaioes... - 13,00

Pueblos 11,380

Utahs 6,000

Apaches....

37,880

Showing a decrease of about one-half, if the above figures in each case approach accuracy.
This decrease is accounted for, in a great measure, by the incessant warfare carried on against
the Indians. A practice, sanctioned by territorial law, has obtained, by which the whites are
encouraged to make volunteer expeditions or campaigns against the Indians. Theoretically,
those participating in these raids are rewarded with. the plunder obtained, but should report

136 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENT.

at the territorial offices all the captives ; while practically, in most cases, the captives are
either sold, at an average of $75 to $400, or held in possession in practical slavery. This
state of things of course keeps up a state of hostility among the Indians. The intervention
of Congress is asked to put a stop to this practice.

No. 4. Superintendents and agents.

The salary of the superintendent should be not less than $2,500 per annum, on account
of the expense of living in New Mexico, and the salaries of the agents should be increased.
Political considerations instead of personal qualifications, have too often been considered.
All should be able to read, write, and speak the English language. The Indians are gener-
ally hostile to the Mexicans, and for that reason Americans should be appointed. Agents
should be retained in charge of their special tribes, with whose habits they have become ac-
quainted, during good behavior.

No. 5. Reservations.

The Indians should, as rapidly as possible, be concentrated upon reservations from which
all whites, except the agents of the government, can be excluded, and where they can be
brought to sustain themselves by means of agriculture. A military force should be posted
at or near each reservation. A special commission is recommended to select these reserva-
tions, this commission to be composed of men of experience in the country, and acquainted
with Indian habits. The reservations should not be selected near the mountains, which
abound in mineral wealth and will attract the whites.

No. 7. Indian depredations.

By a document emanating from the legislature of New Mexico, the following summary is
given of the result of Indian hostilities since 1846 :

Whites killed, 123 ; whites wounded, 32 ; whites taken away captives, 21. Property stolen :
Sheep and goats, 294,740 ; cattle, 13,473 ; horses and mules, 3,557 valued at $1,377,329 60.

No compensation has been obtained for these losses, although frequent memorials to Con-
gress have been forwarded. The people base their claims upon their rights, as citizens, under
the 8th and 9th articles of the treaty with Mexico of 1848, and the 17th article of the inter-
course law of 1834. A competent board of commissioners is recommended to adjudicate
these claims, for which provision should be made by Congress.

No. 8. The Navajoes at the Basque Redondo.

This reservation, on the Pecos river, comprises forty square miles, with Fort Sumner as a
centre. A principal acequia or irrigating canal, seven miles long, supplies the lateral canals
necessary. There were 2,000 acres under cultivation by the Navajoes, who were running
forty-seven ploughs. Vines and fruit trees were coming forward well. Vegetables grow to
great size. South of the fort and east of the Pecos river there are 2,000 acres more of arable
land, and more in the immediate vicinity. There is a fine growth of young cottonwoods
coming forward, which will eventually furnish fuel. Mesquit root is now plenty for fuel,
and other kinds at a distance of twenty-five miles, which can be cut and floated down the
river. Pasturage of nutritious grass is abundant ; water good, though sometimes brackish.
The capacity of the reservation is thought sufficient for both Navajoes and Apaches, but the
latter should not be located with the former, as they are not friendly. Four hundred soldiers
now keep the peace, but if the Navajoes were sent back to their own country an army would
be necessary. The land should be surveyed into small lots and divided among the families.

One Jesse Norton, of California, is said to claim a title to the reservation, under an old
Spanish grant. All claimants of such grants should be required to present and prove their
claims.

The military authorities had on hand, in February last, supplies for the Navajoes for 300
days. 'The cost of rations from January 11 to December 31, 1865, to the War Department,
was $748,307 87. Mr. Graves thinks the Indians could be supported for $675,000.

No. 9. Appropriations recommended.

Money could be saved to government by purchasing wagons and teams to transport goods
and supplies, and hiring teamsters. The stock and wagons would sell for more than cost in
New Mexico. A special agent should be designated to take out and distribute goods. The
appropriations recommended for the Navajoes and Pueblos would be the last ones needed ;
those for the Utahs and Apaches are estimated under the understanding that they are to be
placed on reservations ; if not so placed it is thought $10,000 would be sufficient for each.
The amounts recommended are as follows :

Navajoes, of which $50,000 for grist-mill $150, 000

Pueblos, $5,000 for teachers ; $5, 000 for books, &c 20>000

Apaches, for tools, seeds, &c 25, 000

Utahs 25,000

General funds... 30,000

250,000

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE'. 137

No. 10. Peonage. ,

stem, either in the ordinary Mexican form, that of a state of continual imprisonment
for debt, or in that of practical enslavement of captive Indians, " is the univer-

This syst
or service

sally recognized mode of securing labor and assistance." No less than 400 Indians are thus
held in Santa F6 alone. Their treatment varies with the whims and feelings of their hold-
ers. Sometimes they are, doubtless, better off than when free. The arguments to sustain
the system are the same ae those formerly used in behalf of slavery. In spite of the strin-
gent orders of the government, the system continues, and nearly every federal officer held
peons in service. The superintendent of Indian affairs had half a dozen. The practice of
federal officers sustained it. As an illustration the following correspondence is given :

LAS CRUCES, August 22, 1865.

The commanding officer of Fort Selden will allow, and assist, if necessary, the bearer,
Don Pedro Garcia, to retain and take in his charge his peon, Antonio Rodriguez, if at said
post.

By command of General Carleton :

N. H. DAVIS,
Assistant Inspector General United States Army.

HEADQUARTERS FORT SELDEN, NEW MEXICO,

August 22, 1865.

COLONEL : Yours of to-day requiring me to assist, in my official capacity, in taking orde-
livering to a citizen a peon is received. I desire to be informed explicitly whether i am to
take this as a precedent and deliver to any person claiming the person of another.

This is directly contrary to civil law. The laws of the Territory, according to my recol-
lection, have made it a penal offence to return a man to another claiming him as his own.
The President of the United States has abolished involuntary servitude ; it is certainly con-
trary to the established rules and regulations of the government 'under which we live.

I should like some instructions on this point, if you require rne to return those who have
escaped from involuntary servitude. It is directly contrary to my opinion of law and jus-
tice, and I will only do it on positive and unmistakable orders.
I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. H. WHITLOCK,

Captain 1st Vet. Inf., Cat. Vols., Commanding.
Colonel N. H. DAVIS,

Assistant Inspector General, Las Cruces, N. M.

INSPECTOR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT,

DEPARTMENT OF NEW MEXICO,

Concordia, Texas, September}, 1865.

Your letter of the 22d ultimo has been received, in which your premises taken are wrong
and your reasoning fallacious. Peonage is voluntary and not involuntary servitude. The
Constitution of the United States or the proclamation of the President does not prohibit it.
The statute law of the land expressly recognizes this servitude. It is an apprenticeship, or
an agreement between the master and servant, and not only can the master arrest and take
his servant peon, but the civil authorities are commanded to arrest and deliver the peon to
his master when deserting him. (See Laws of New Mexico, chapter 12; contracts between
master and servant, passed by the legislative assembly, 1858 and 1859.)

You now hold a civil prisoner arrested by military authority. The question is not whether
peonage is a good or bad kind of servitude ; it is whether it is recognized bylaw, and whether
when a peon had swindled his master out of a large sum of money and deserted him, taking
shelter at a military post, the commander thereof would, by extending the courtesy of aid-
ing or acting for the civil authorities in surrendering the culprit, violate any obligation of law
or duty. It seems that in the case in question he woujd not.

You ask for explicit instructions, and make use of disrespectful and threatening language.
The first will be granted, and the latter this time overlooked.

You are hereby directed so far to aid in the rendition of peons when claimed by their mas-
ters, or there is a reasonable cause to believe they have deserted them, as not to allow them
to remain on the military reservation. These instructions will be faithfully executed in
spirit as well as letter, without evasion.

By command of General Carleton, commanding department of New Mexico :
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

N. H. DAVIS,
Assistant Inspector General U. S. A.

Captain J. H. WHITLOCK,

Commanding Fort Selden, N. M.

The aid of Congress is invoked to stop the practice.

138 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No 11. Replies to questions by superintendents and agents.

These are here presented in full.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Santa F6, January 9, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with your request of the 5th instant, propounding certain inquiries
with reference to numbers, general conduct, condition, welfare, &c., of the Indians under
my charge, I have the honor to submit the following reply :

The number of Indians at present under the charge of this superintendency is composed
of three bands of Utahs, to wit: Capotes, numbering 1,000; Wibisnuches, 700; andMohua-
ches, about 700 total, 2,400. The Jicarilla Apaches, 900 ; and the Pueblos, numbering
near 8,000. The two former bands of Utes are located in the northwest portion of the Ter-
ritory, with their agency at Abiquin, under the charge of Agent Diego Archuleto and Spe-
cial Agent Manuel Garcia. The Mohuache Utes and Jicarilla Apaches are located in the
southeast part of the Territory, with their agency near Mr. L. B. Maxwell's ranche, and is
called the Cimarron agency, under the charge of Agent Manuel G. Galazer. The Pueblo
Indians are settled in nineteen villages, or pueblos, situated in different parts of the Terri-
tory, but mostly on or near the Rio Grande, under the charge of Agent Toribio Romero.

The general conduct of the Utes and Jicarilla Apaches has been peaceable when sup-
plied with enough to eat. They live entirely by hunting and what is furnished by the gov-
ernment, seeming to have no higher aim in the scale of civilization or industry ; but when
pressed with hunger they, like all other Indians, prefer stealing to starvation. All past ex-
perience goes to prove that this disposition predominates in the Indian, and will continue so
until proper restraint is placed over them, and they made to feel their self-dependence.

There is a small party of the Jicarilla Apaches, three or four in number, who, for some
offence committed, have been for years discarded and driven from the band, during which
time many murders have been committed in different parts of the Territory that have been
charged to them ; whether justly so or not I have no positive evidence. Doubtless many
of the crimes have been justly attributed to them. These lawless acts very unjustly reflect
upon the whole band. Recently a similar occurrence took place among the Utes. Last
fall a proposition was made by a few of the Wibisnuches to form an alliance with the Nava-
joes, which was rejected almost unanimously, whereupon a fight among themselves ensued,
in which Cabeza Blanco, one of the principal men, was killed, and others wounded, by four
of the Wibisnuche band, who immediately left and have not been permitted to return. A
short time since they visited the settlements, killed three Indian and one Mexican child, and
stole fourteen horses from the citizens. In this way a few evil-disposed Indians may bring
a whole band into disrepute.

With regard to removing the thr^ bands of Utes to that section of country now occupied
by the Tabahuaches, in Colorado, I am of opinion that it would be entirely impracticable,
those Indians having lived so long in the country now occupied by them that, notwithstand-
ing they have no title to it, they claim it as their own ; and, should they ever consent to be
colonized, it will have to be done there. The expediency of colonizing them at present pre-
sents a question difficult of solution.

The policy and wishes of the government, as well as the dictates of humanity, indicate a
desire to deal leniently towards the Indians. The question now arises whether they shall be
sustained in their seemingly settled purpose to remain as they are, in defiance, or I might
say contempt, of the good intentions towards them on the part of the government. I think
not. I am aware that it will require time, patience, and perseverance to concentrate those
Utes upon a reservation, and to perfect a system for their management and control, but I
am satisfied it will be in the end much more economical than the present system.

The government should adopt a stern and rigid policy towards all the wild Indians of this
Territory, and when adopted it should be carried out. They may temporize with them for
the next century without any beneficial result. The Indians are fully impressed with the
belief that all the presents given them by government is done to keep them quiet. I would
recommend that, for the present, the agency be removed from Abiquin to Tierra Amarilla,
it being more remote from the settlements.

) as to the amicable rela-
>prove of too many small
the policy of placing two
diffierent tribes, who have no good feeling towards each other, upon the same reservation.
I would, therefore, recommend two additional reservations, one for the three bands of Utes,
at a point to be selected in the section of country now occupied by the Capotes and Wibis-
nuches, either on the San Juan or some other of the many streams with which that coun-
try abounds, on any of which can be found plenty of good land, timber, and grass. The
other to be located, for the Jicarilla Apaches, together with the Mescaleros, should they be
brought back, at a point to be selected in the vicinity of Fort Stanton. There is a large ex-
tent of fine land on the Rio Bonito and tributaries, with fine timber and good grazing.
Game is more plentiful there than any other portion of the Territory, as well as, being in the
country occupied by the Mescalero Apaches* it will be much more easy to locate them there
than to remove them to a more distant point.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY. 139

Reservations should be selected as far from any settlements as can conveniently be ;
hence the objection to locating a reservation at or near the Cimarron agency. That country
in all probability will, in a few years, be settled, and experience has shown that Indians and
whites don't make good neighbors.

The Navajoes, when all collected, will be quite enough for one reservation ; and I should
judge they felt more attachment for that place than the Apaches, as the latter have nearly
all left.

The robberies and murders committed by the Navajoes is a matter of speculation. These
Indians have been for the last five years in the hands of the military, who have had the en-
tire control of them. I have no official information with regard to the crimes committed by
them. I believe, however, that some depredations have been committed by Navajoes leav-
ing the reservations, much more by those in open hostility, and not the least part by the
Gila Apaches and men with whiter skins. But in order to carry out the programme of those
professing opposition to the Bosque, it is to their interest to charge all the crimes committed
in the Territory to the reservation Indians. For more full information on this point I would

refer you to Generals P and Carleton. The number of Navajoes in the Territory now held

as unwilling captives or servants, without compensation, it is impossible for me to say, hav-
ing no data from which to form a correct conclusion. They are scattered promiscuously over
the Territory.

I have given my views with reference to this matter in a communication to the Superin-
tendent of Indian Affairs, to which I would respectfully refer you.

The general conduct of the Pueblo Indians is unobjectionable. They live, as remarked
before, in nineteen pueblos, for which they all have patents to their lands, except two that
have not been surveyed. They speak five different dialects, but frequently resort to the
Spanish language, which most of them speak and understand sufficiently to communicate
with each other. They are an interesting people quiet, industrious, and honest. No In-
dians in the United States are better entitled to the kind favor of the government. I regret
to say that not a single school or teacher can be found among them, and they are left to
do the best they can towards educating their children. While thousands of dollars are ap-
propriated annually for educational purposes in other superintendencies, not one dollar has
been expended in this since the acquirement of the country by our government. This mat-
ter has been so often and earnestly brought to the notice of the department that it would
seem unnecessary to refer to it again.

During the past year some of the Pueblos have lost almost their entire crop from the over-
flow of the Rio Grande and the ravages of the grasshopper, and, notwithstanding they don't
complain, no doubt many of them are suffering. They are good farmers, and with some
assistance from the government in the way of farming implements, blacksmiths to learn
them the art, and schools to teach them the rudiments of a plain education, they would in a
few years become good and worthy citizens.

The decrease of Indians in the Territory is attributable to three facts :

First. By death. Up to this time almost constant warfare has been waged between the
Indians and whites, in consequence of which many have been killed.

Second. From migration ; but not to the extent of death.

Third. From the fact of their seldom marrying out of the pueblo, or band ; consequently
marry relatives.

The several agents of this department are efficient, prompt, and attentive to their official
duties, and, so far as my knowledge extends, have the confidence of their various bands of
Indians.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

FELIPE DELGADO,
Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. J. K. GRAVES,

United States Special Indian Commissioner, New Mexico.

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO, January 4, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with your favor of the 2d instant, I have the honor to report to you
that the natural customs of the Mescalero Apaches traditionally from their past history have
consisted in their leading a savage life, hiding themselves in the most barren places in their
country, which they considered to be unmolested by the whites. Their personal inclinations
are to battle with the white man, and to rob his property, and they consider him always as
their enemy, an imperative duty to not abandon its pursuits which they believe themselves.

Their mode of living is in huts of hides, manta or grass, which they remove from time to
time, from place to place, with readiness. When any of the family die* they burn
his hut and destroy his property, carrying the possessions of the deceased to the grave where
his remains are buried ; all the tribe make great demonstrations of grief, and then change
their habitations to another place. For several years I have labored to remove this inal from
the Indians, but unsuccessfully. They say ft is a point of religion in their customs.

The Mescaiero Apaches, as well as all the Indians of this country, are possessed of the

140 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE'.

idea of their superiority to white men in birth, in race, and in ail circumstances. They
esteem the favors of the government as rewards for not committing depredations, and as a
recompense for their lands, and they resist the migration of the whites. Nevertheless their
personal inclinations are docile, susceptible, and easily governed. ,

For many years these Indians have not taken any interest in civilization, but the change
of their removal from their country to the reservation at the Bosque Redondo, has caused
them to make a great alteration in their customs, and they have taken a great interest in
agriculture, and have given me many proofs that they desire to change their savage life and
customs, and to lead a Christian and civilized life. This they have proved, because some of
their principal chiefs have baptized their children. In general, all the tribe have shown a
lively desire to have schools to educate their children and to instruct them to labor at trades.

This tribe was an object of admiration during the first year passed at the reservation.
With very little aid from the government they planted their gardens, corn, melons, water-
melons, pumpkins, &c. The earth yielded them a reasonable return for their labor, and they
remained in great hope of bettering their harvests in the coming year. And all the tribe
manifested to me their desire to be located permanently upon said reservation, for which pur-
pose they begged me to ask, on their behalf, from the general government this reservation,
which was granted them.

At the close of the same year the military commander of New Mexico began his work of
colonizing the Navajo tribe upon the same reservation.

At first but few came, afterwards large numbers came, all as prisoners of war. Where-
upon the Mescaleros began begging to be separated from them ; that they could never agree
to live together with their enemies.

For many years the two tribes have been at arms against each other. On seeing these
Navajoes located together in the place assigned for them, they, the Mescaleros, desired to
be better located on a separate reservation in their own country, where they could not be
molested by the Navajoes.

For a long time previous they manifested their wishes to the military commander, to the
superintendent of Indian affairs, to the agent, and to the commissioners who came from
Washington, but it was not granted them.

Their first lands, which they cultivated for two years, were taken away from them by the
commander at Fort Sumner, and delivered to the Navajees, and the Mescaleros were assigned
to another place. They felt this removal very deep, but this measure was only necessary to
prevent new difficulties. At last, according to the information I have received, they escaped
from the reservation .and went to their own country. At the time of their escape I was in
charge of the agency at the Cimarron.

It is my firm opinion that had the Mescalero Apaches been let alone in the reservation at
the Bosque Redondo, and not been associated there with the Navajoes, they would have per-
manently remained. And the Jicarilla Apaches in that case would have joined them, and
both tribes would have been equal to, within a few years, or in better condition than the
Pueblo Indians of New Mexico.

The fuel and pastures prior to the removal of the Navajoes to the present reservation were
sufficient to last at least thirty years, from a regular distance, and which difficulty in obtain-
ing it is now felt by the Indians ; the multitude of Indians has completely exhausted this
article so necessary.

In my opinion, speaking frankly to you, and considering this subject so important to the
general government and to the poor Indians, it would not be proper again to bring these
Indians to the reservation while the Navajoes remain located there. In that case it would be
better for them to locate upon a reservation within their ow r n country, in the vicinity of Fort
Stanton, and to induce the Jicarilla Apaches to join them. They are all of the same race,
speak the same language, and for many years have lived in peace. The different bands of
Apaches have never entered into difficulty. The country recommended for these Indians is
healthy, it is the land of their birth, and'is blessed with fertile lands for pasturage and agri-
culture, and minerals, sweet water, an abundance of timber, fruits of various kinds, andmez-
cal, which is one of the articles most highly prized by all the bands of Apaches, which they
manufacture in large quantities, and is a salutary aliment of their bodies.

Furthermore, the conduct observed by the Mescaleros while under my charge, gave me
sufficient proof of their desisting from superstitions, and I saw them interested in agricul-
ture and the raising of stock. They had their goats to the number of about two hundred,
but during many trying periods to them in the reservation, necessity compelled them to be
consumed for their own sustenance.

To locate the Jicarillas upon the Bosque Redondo reservation seems to me impracticable.
Many reasons have been shown to me why they do not consider themselves able to live on
said reservation. Because of the unhealthful water, injurious to their bodies ; because of the
scarcity of fuel and fruits upon which to subsist at seasons, and because of their love for the
land of their birth.

Among the Mescaleros exists the same difficulty; in their hearts they love their own coun-
try, and, having gone away from the reserration, it is very difficult to bring them to the
Cimarron agency without enormous expense to the government. Leaving them to dwell in
their own country, we will have no further difficulty.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY. 141

When the principal Mescalero chiefs came, accompanying me to the city in December,
3862, to sue for peace, Major General Carleton proposed to them that when all the bands had
sued for peace they should all return to dwell in their own country. During the time they
lived alone in the reservation they never called to mind this promise. But after the location
of the Navajoes among them, they then claimed it as a binding debt upon the military com-
mander of the department. The same chiefs of the Mescaleros helped me to obtain the arrival
at the reservation of the hostile bands who had remained apart, so that their freedom might
be procured.

In conclusion, I have to commend to you the opinion which I have held for many years,
to place these and all the Indians of the country upon reservations as the only mode, in my
judgment, to relieve the government and the people of New Mexico from the constant depre-
dations which they have borne for years.

I am. very respectfully, your obedient servant,

LORENZO LABODI,

United States Indian Agent.
Hon. J. K. GRAVES,

United States Special Commissioner.

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO, January 4, 1866.

SIR : In reply to the questions you have submitted to me concerning the bands of Jicarilla
Apaches and Mohuache Utahs, I have to say that the two tribes have for many years lived
together and in friendship, have intermarried and are much attached one to the other. The
Jicarillas are about one thousand, and the Mohuaches six hundred souls.

In regard to their customs and habits the difference between the two tribes is small. The
Utahs have no desire to improve their condition they desire only to live as savages and by
the chase, and are opposed to living upon a reservation and living by agriculture. They
say the Great Spirit created them free to hunt and fight, and not to work.

The Jicarillas are more intelligent ; the greater portion of them take an interest in agri-
culture and in mechanical labor ; their women make earthen vessels, the sale of which to the
whites, though at very inconsiderable prices, helps to support them.

The two bands have informed me that they wish to live together forever and in the same
country they now inhabit ; they are attached to one another as if one family.

According to the indications afforded by the Indians themselves, it is my opinion that the
Jicarillas would not agree quietly to move to the Bosque Redondo, nor would the Mohuaches
agree to unite the Capotes and Guibisnuches.

With a view to the welfare of the country and of the Indians themselves, the best plan
would in my opinion be to locate the two tribes upon a reservation in their own country,
as they contemplate themselves, as before stated, as one family, and would be quite contented
if left to live in their own country, and they would thereby be more easily kept in subjection,
and would the sooner adopt a civilized life, and especially would such be the. result if supplied
with schools and schoolmasters for the benefit of their children, which beneficent provision
would not, I trust, be denied them.

My ideas and views concerning the bands of Indians under my charge are decidedly in
favor of their being placed permanently upon a reservation and required to labor for a liveli-
hood, and I recommend that the propSsition be verified by the government.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

MANUEL S. SALAZER,

Indian Agent, New Mexico.

Hon. J. K, GRAVES.

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO, January 4, 1866.

SIR : Your communication dated the second instant has been received, and I have the
honor to reply ; feeling, however^ that I may not be able to satisfy your wishes in regard to
a matter so difficult to solve at the first sight.

As I had the honor to inform you verbally, the Indians under my charge are estimated as
follows : the Guibisnuches one thousand, and the Capotes seven hundred souls.

To the second inquiry, I reply that they are so much attached to their native region that
it is difficult to remove them to another place without resorting to physical force against their
religious creed, if it can be so called. These savages are possessed of the most heathenish
superstitions against abandoning those places where the remains of their ancestors lie. In
these same regions there are points suitable for their location, such as the Rio de San Juan,
and others ; but notwithstanding this, a great inducement would be necessary to keep them
in subjection, as they consider their reduction to reservations as a species of slavery, and
give for their reason that they have always been loyal to the government, and have never

142 . NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

failed in their allegiance. This is evidently so, for since the United States first took posses-
sion of this Territory there has never been, on the part of these two bands, any demonstration
of disposition to be at war with the government.

To the third and last interrogatory I reply, that it is my opinion that one of the places to
which I have above referred should be selected, distant from the settlements of the whites, for
the establishment of the agency ; this to be in the character of a fort, and garrisoned by one
or more companies of soldiers ; the Indians then to commence in the art of agriculture, and
to be furnished with more rations that they now receive, and to be made to understand that
they shall have to depend upon their own labor for their living, and in this way to induce
them to work, giving them some goats, sheep to raise, &c.

It may, perhaps, appear to some that my ideas are injudicious ones, but, in my judgment,
I conceive no other to be such. If they were to be carried out by force, it is my opinion that
all the tribes speaking the same dialect and characterized by the same habits as the Capotes,
Guibisnuches, Tabequaches, Moquaches, &c., ought to be placed upon a general reserva-
tion, and made to obey the laws and regulations which may be established by the govern-
ment for their better condition and civilization, in order to prevent the Indians from commit-
ting depredations and the whites from encroaching upon them.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant.

DIEGO ARCHULETA,

Indian Agent, New Mexico.

J. K. GRAVES, Esq., Commissioner.

No. 42.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS,

May 1, 1860.

SIR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 13th March, 1366,
with copies of correspondence with the War Department, relative to the future subsistence
of the Indians at the Bosque Redondo reservation, in New Mexico, and directing an estimate
to be prepared of such appropriations as may be required to provide for said Indians during
the next fiscal year.

These Indians are captives ; they were placed upon the present reservation by the military
authorities, and have heretofore been cared for mainly by the War Department. Their only
means of subsistence are agriculture and the charity of the government. They have been
brought from their country by force, and if allowed to roam and hunt, they would return to
the mountain fastnesses, and again commence war with the whites. One campaign against
them then would cost more than to keep them ten years where they are. Taking it for
granted that they are to remain where they are, and be cared for as heretofore, I have, as data
to go upon in making an estimate, first, the actual cost of subsistence purchased for them
during the year 1865, by the War Department, as given in General Carleton's report of Feb-
ruary 5, 1866, a copy of which is herewith; second, the estimate of General Eaton, com-
missary general of subsistence, as to what will be the cost of subsisting 6,000 Indians, at
the Bosque Redondo, during the present fiscal year, a copy of which is herewith ; third, a
general estimate made by J. K. Graves, a special commissioner, sent out by this department
in September last, to make investigation into the conduct of the Indian service in New
Mexico ; and, fourth, the cost of articles of subsistence, as ascertained from late accounts
and reports from Indian agents in New Mexico.

The report of General Carleton shows that the cost of subsistence furnished in 1865, after
deducting produce raised on the reservation, (valued at $73,246 93,) was $694,226 27. The
cost of transporting this I have been unable to ascertain ; but as military supplies for New
Mexico are purchased in St. Louis and taken by land, the land transportation from Leaven-
worth alone would amount (allowing two pounds per day to each person subsisted) to about
$800,000. Taking into consideration the cost of transportation from St. Louis to Leaven-
worth, the cost of cartage and other incidental expenses, the cost of subsisting these Indians
during the year 1865 could not have been less than $1,500,000. General Eaton estimates
that the cost of subsistence during the current fiscal year will be $638,848 73. This, of course,
does not include transportation, and is based upon the supposition that the number of Indians
to be subsisted will be 6,000. The average number subsisted during the last calendar year,
as reported by General Carleton, was 7,909. General Eaton gives no reason for supposing
that this number will be reduced to 6,000, but says it is probable.

Special Commissioner Graves estimates, in round numbers, that the cost of subsisting these
Indians during the next fiscal year will be $675,000. But the data upon which I have based
an estimate is the market price, in New Mexico, of flour, beef, and salt the only articles of
subsistence which, in my judgment, need be furnished. The cost of these articles there will
be, as nearly as can be ascertained, 15| cents per pound for flour, 13 cents for beef, and 10
cents for salt.

Taking as correct the supposition of General Eaton, that the number of Indians to be sub

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTFNDENCY. 143

sisted will be reduced to 6,000, and allowing one pound of flour and one of beef to each In-
dian, and three pounds of salt to each one hundred, daily, the cost of subsistence will amount
to $630,720. The value of produce raised last year in the reservation is estimated by General
Carleton at $73,246 93. Although the crops in New Mexico are uncertain, I presume the
Indians will raise subsistence during the next fiscal year to the amount of $100,000, which
will leave to be provided by the government, subsistence to the value of $530,720, including
transportation to the reservation.

The Indians of course must be clothed ; but, as they have shown remarkable skill and in-
genuity in making blankets and clothing when furnished with the raw material, I would
suggest that they be furnished with sheep. In this way they will be able to procure clothing,
and, eventually, subsistence. I think there should be eight thousand sheep purchased,
which, delivered on the reservation, will cost twenty-four thousand dollars. In addition to
this, there should be cotton goods purchased for them to the amount of at least fifteen thou-
sand dollars.

For agricultural implements General Carleton recommends that a liberal appropriation be
made, in order that the agricultural resources of the reservation may be developed, and the
Indians become self-sustaining. I fully concur in his views in this matter, and would sug-
gest that the sum of twenty thousand dollars, at least, be appropriated for this object.

It has long been in contemplation by the military authorities to erect a grist-mill on the
reservation. Some arrangement for grinding is evidently necessary, but the cost of a grist-
mill, including transportation of material, would amount to over thirty thousand dollars.
I would therefore suggest that portable mills be provided, and that the sum of five thou-
sand dollars be appropriated for this object.

There are no buildings on this reservation except two storehouses, erected by the military
authorities at a cost of eighteen thousand dollars, and a few adobe huts. When this de-
partment assumes the control of these Indians, it will be necessary to provide a house for
the agent upon the reservation, and also houses for the employe's. Owing to the distance
from the agency where building material can be procured, this will be expensive. All
the timber in that vicinity suitable for building purposes has been used in the construction
of Fort Sumner, leaving none nearer than eighty miles* Therefore, to erect houses for the
agent, physician, farmer, teachers, blacksmith, miller, carpenter, laborer, and interpreter,
will cost at least twenty thousand dollars.

The accommodations for the sick on the reservation consist of two small adobe huts ca-
pable of accommodating about fifteen persons. These are, of course, wholly inadequate for
hospital purposes, and I would therefore suggest that an appropriation of fifteen hundred
dollars be made for this object, and five hundred dollars for medical supplies.

Common humanity will render the foregoing appropriations necessary. The interests of
the government in rendering these Indians a self-sustaining community by advancing them
in civilization will render others necessary.

They should have a blacksmith shop, supplied with tools, iron and steel, and a black-
smith should be provided. They should have a miller to teach them the use of portable
mills, so that they may grind their own grain. They should also have a physician, carpen-
ter, and interpreter, and to encourage them in learning trades a few of them should be
paid as laborers or apprentices. Some provision should also be made for the education of
the children, who numbered in January last, according to the report of Captain Bristol,
2,486.

I would therefore suggest that an appropriation be made for the following employe's, at
the rates set opposite each:

One physician, at a salary of .. $1, 800

One superintendent of farming, at a salary of 1. 200

One blacksmith, at a salary of 900

One miller, at a salary of _. - 900

One carpenter, at a salary of : .. 900

Two teachers, at a salary of $800 each 1, 600

Six laborers, at a salary of $400 each 2,400

9,700

And that the sum of four thousand dollars be appropriated for the establishment and
-support of two schools.

To enable the Indians to carry on farming operations to an extent sufficient to make them
self-sustaining, they must be provided with work-cattle, wagons, &c., in addition to the
agricultural implements. The most economical way in which this can be done will be to
purchase a train on the Missouri, and use it in transporting the goods, agricultural imple-
ments, &c., to be purchased for the Indians in the east. The train will cost very little
more than the simple cost of transportation, and when it arrives at the reservation will be

144 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

worth about as much as it cost on the Missouri. For this object, and for all cost of trans--
porting the goods, (say 90,000 pounds,) I would suggest au appropriation of thirty thou-
sand six hundred and fifty dollars, as follows:

For 20 wagons, at $225 each .-... $4,500

For 120 yoke of oxen, $130 each 15,600

For pay of two wagon -masters five months, $125 per month 1,250

For pay of 20 teamsters five months, $60 per month 6, 000

Provisions for 22 employes five months, $30 per month 3,300

30, 650

There may, and no doubt will, be some expenditures necessary which cannot now be
foreseen, and I have therefore included in the estimate herewith submitted an item of two
thousand dollars for such contingencies. This estimate, which takes into account the cost
of subsistence, clothing, all necessary agricultural assistance, transportation, and the ad-
vancement of the Indians in civilization, (heretofore entirely neglected,) will amount to eix
hundred and sixty-seven thousand and seventy dollars, which is twenty-seven thousand
one hundred and fifty-six dollars and twenty-seven cents less than the simple cost of the
subsistence alone furnished by the War Department during the last year, and less than the
land transportation of subsistence alone from Leaven worth to the Bosque Redondo would
cost.

As it seems to be the intention of the War Department to turn these Indians over to this
department at the commencement of the next fiscal year, I would respectfully suggest that
this estimate be submitted to Congress, with the request that action be taken upon it at as
early a day as practicable.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. N. COOLEY, Commissioner.

Hon. JAMES HARLAN,

Secretary of the Interior.

Estimate of appropriation required for the settlement and support of the, Navajoe Indians on tiie Basque
Redondo reservation in New Mexico for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1867.

For the purchase and transportation of subsistence for 6,000 Indians $530,720

For the purchase and transportation of clothing for 6,000 Indians 15, 000

For the purchase and transportation of 8,000 head of sheep 24, 000

For the purchase and transportation of agricultural implements and seed 20, 000

For the establishment and support of a blacksmith shop, including tools, iron,

steel, &c 4,000

For the purchase of a portable grist-mill 5,000

For the erection and support of hospitals, and purchase of medical supplies 2, 000

For the establishment and support of two schools 4, 000

For the erection of buildings for the agent and employes 20,000

For the pay of one physician, one farmer, one blacksmith, one miller, one car-
penter, two teachers, and six apprentices 9, 700

For the purchase of wagons and oxen, and expenses of transporting goods and

agricultural implements.. - 30, 650

Contingent expenses 2, QUO

667,070

No. 43.

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO, September 28, 1866.

Sm : I have the honor herewith to transmit this as my first annual report. *
After stating the destitute condition of the Utes and Apaches of the. Cimarron agency, the
superintendent proceeds :

Upon the supposition that they will not voluntarily consent to leave their present locality.,
would respectfully recommend that they be located on a reservation in the region of coun-

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY. 145

try now occupied by them, in order to save trouble, expense, or warfare in removing them.
And I would respectfully suggest that a place ten miles south of Maxwell's, known as Ry-
ado, be purchased. It is a place already improved and under cultivation, good soil, well
watered with a good system of irrigation. The water is good and sufficient, the wood and
timber abundant, and the tract of land is about fourteen miles square, with any quantity of
buildings enough for the agents' storehouses, mechanics, laborers, missionaries' schools,
shops, &c , and I think the place can be purchased for fifty thousand dollars. The build-
ings w r ould cost half that to erect them now. If any more land is needed, the government
owns what joins it on the south, and any quantity of land additional could be attached
thereto if deemed necessary^ or if they will consent to the arrangement. I think it preferable
that the Mohuaches-Utes, numbering about five hundred and fifty, be located on a reserva-
tion with the Capotes and Wamenuche bands of the same tribe, somewhere on the San Juan,
or Rio Los Animas, and that the Jicarilla Apaches, numbering one thousand, be placed on
a reservation with the Mescalero Apaches, somewhere south of Fort Stanton, which arrange-
ment would save the expense of one agency.

[With regard to the Capote and Wamenuche-Utes in the northwest, who have also been in
a state of great destitution, but who still manifest a disinclination to concentrate upon a res-
ervation, Superintendent Norton says : ]

But, whether by force or by choice, I respectfully recommend that these Indians be placed
on a reservation on the Rio Los Animas, or San Juan, or some of its tributaries, and that a
suitable appropriation be made for that purpose. They number twenty-five hundred souls,
and if the Mohuaches-Utes of the Cimarron are placed on the same reservation it will make
them number about thirty-one hundred men, women, and children.

MESCALERO APACHES.

With regard to the Mescalero Apaches little is known since they left the reservation of the
Basque Redondo, where the most of them had been located with the Navajoes. They were
unable to agree with the Navajoes, and were therefore dissatisfied, and left at night in a body
on the 3d of November last, ever since which time they have been committing depredations
upon the settlements, and also some murders.

When not in the mountains south of Fort Stanton, (their native country,) they range be-
tween that and Los Vegas in search of booty. Only a few days ago they killed one man
and wounded another, in the attempt to run off a large herd of sheep near Galestea. Their
agent, Lorenzo Labadi, says they number about five hundred and twenty -five souls, and he
has no doubt but that he can prevail upon them to settle on a reservation which might be se-
lected for them south of Fort Stanton, and to live at peace "with the inhabitants ; but he does
not think that they can ever be induced to return to the Bosque Redondo. I would there-
fore recommend that these Indians be located on a reservation south of Fort Stanton, in the
selection of which I would suggest that their wishes be consulted, and that the Jicarilla
Apaches, if they can be prevailed upon to leave the Cimarron, be placed on the same reser-
vation ; for these two tribes are intermarried, and are in fact one and the same people in lan-
guage, character, and habits. Also I would recommend that Fort Stanton be abandoned,
and that the garrison be moved to said reservation and a military post established thereon
for the security of the agent, the protection of the public property, and for the control and
government of the Indians ; for the accomplishment of which object a suitable appropriation
will also be required.

[In regard to the Gila Apaches, the superintendent thinks the Mimbres and Mogollen bands
can be induced to make peace and retire to a reservation. He adds : ]

I therefore respectfully recommend that Governor Mitchell, Doctor Steck, (the former
agent, who says he has no doubt but that he can prevail upon them to locate on a reserva-
tion and keep the peace,) and myself be authorized and empowered to treat with them and
get them settled down, either on their old reservation or on a new one, subject to the appro-
val of your department, and that an appropriation suitable be made for the accomplishment of
this object.

COMANCIIES.

With regard to the Comauches, the most wild, treacherous, warlike, and brutal of all other
Indians, there is a large body of them (about two thousand) continually occupying the east-
ern portion of this Territory. The names of their different chiefs and number of lodges,
which were given me by a reliable and intelligent man, who has lived and traded with them
for years, are as follows, viz :

Puertas, 30 lodges, about 350 souls.

Parua Caiua, 60 lodges, about 275 "

Quajipe, 1*20 lodges, about 500 "

Maue, 260 lodges, about 1,075

Total 2,000

10 c i

146 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE'.

They had beeii in the habit, for some time previous to my coming here, of trading with
the Mexican people, who have heretofore had trade permits granted them by General Carle-
ton and by my predecessor ; the consequence of which has been that an immense trade has
been carried on with them, and they have been thereby encouraged to steal large numbers,
amounting to thousands, of cattle from the inhabitants of Texas and trade them to these Mex-
icans for goods and provisions, and in home instances for whiskey and ammunition, which
illicit commerce, as soon as ascertained, I immediately adopted measures to put an end to by
issuing and publishing an order revoking all licenses and permits heretofore granted to trade
with any Indians in this Territory, unless said licenses were duly approved by the Commis-
sioner of Indian Affairs at Washington ; and I gave notice that any person trading with any
Indians without such license, duly approved by said Commissioner, would be prosecuted to
the full extent of the law.

These Comanches I understand to be friendly disposed towards the government of the
United States and towards the people of this Territory, but hostile towards the people of Texas.
They have committed no depredations on the citizens of New Mexico, because their interests
have dictated that they should not destroy this, the only market they have heretofore had for
the stock they have stolen from the people of Texas. I considered it my duty, under the
circumstances, to put an end to this traffic, because I considered it very unjust and cruel to
the citizens of Texas to encourage these Indians in their depredations upon them by furnish-
ing them a market for their booty. I know of instances in which traders from here have
taken out a few hundred dollars' worth of goods and returned with as many head of Texas
cattle as dollars invested.

Although, as I said before, they have committed no depredations upon the people of New
Mexico, yet they made a raid upon the herds of the Navajoes at the Bosque in July last, and
succeeded in running off some two hundred head of their horses and ponies and in killing
four Navajoes. At the same time they told Mexican herders that they did not want any of
the government stock; nor did they intend to take anything from the Mexicans ; that it was
only the Navajoes they were after, and that the lands of the Bosque Redondo belonged to them
and that the Navajoes had no right there. I understand that they are in the habit occasionally
of visiting and trading with the sutlers at Fort Bascomb. The region of country now occu-
pied by these Indians I understand to be that between 102 and l(J4 longitude and 33 and
37 north latitude. I have no doubt that the establishment of an agency for them at Fort
Bascomb would exert a highly salutary and beneficial influence over them, prevent to a great
extent their plundering the people of Texas, and pave the way to their final settlement upon
a reservation of their own and their ultimate civilization and christianization. I would
therefore recommend that such an agency be authorized and established, and that ten thousand
dollars' worth of goods and presents be appropriated annually for their benefit. Understand-
ing that they have large flocks and herds, and that game is abundant with them, no govern-
ment aid in the shape of provisions will be needed or required.

PUEBLOS.

The report of Agent Ward is so full and complete in the information it imparts and in the
recommendations with reference to the Pueblo Indians, that it seems unnecessary that J
should add anything thereto. I would, however, recommend that the law passed by the
territorial legislature, allowing the sale of intoxicating liquors to Pueblo Indians, be repealed
by an act of Congress and that such sale be absolutely forbidden. I also recommend that by
an act of Congress all suits against these Indians shall be brought only in the United States
district court, instead of being permitted to be brought before the alcaldes, (justices of the
peace,) because these Indians are continually imposed upon and harassed by vexatious pros-
ecutions brought before said alcaldes, who always decide in favor of the Mexicans and against
the Indian, no matter how meritorious may be the case of the latter. I also recommend that
by act of Congress the sale of the lands granted to these Pueblo Indians be absolutely for-
bidden, and that all sales heretofore made be declared null and void, and that all Mexicans
and Americans occupying, claiming, or cultivating said lands be required to abandon and
give up'the same to these Pueblos, the only rightful and legitimate owners thereof, and that
some provision be made in said act for reimbursing the amount actually paid by those pur-
chasing said lands under the supposition and impression that the Indians had a legitimate
right to sell the same. I make this recommendation because on many of these pueblos they
have sold most of their best lands, or they are occupied by those having no shadow of title.
The passage of these acts by Congress is absolutely necessary for the protection of the morals
and rights of these Indians, and for the preservation of their lands for their own use, benefit,
and support.

N ATA JOES.

The expense to the government of this reservation is enormous. Not less than $1,500,000
is annually expended for clothing and feeding these Indians and for the expenses of feeding,
clothing, and paying off the laborers on the reservation and military establishment attached
thereto. These Indians have now been settled on this reservation for over three years, and

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE'. 147

it is now high time that they should bo self-supporting, at least so far as the need of grain
for bread is concerned. But the fact is lamentably true that not one-fifth of the amount re-
quired was raised last year, and the crop this year is no better than last, which failure is, in
my opinion, attributable to the want of skill and proper attention in the management of the
labor, and in irrigating the lands at proper times and in a proper manner, and not to the
poverty of the soil nor scarcity of water for the purposes of irrigation. Some change in this
respect is much needed, and I would therefore recommend that the course with reference
thereto suggested by Agent Dodd in his annual report be adopted, and that the necessary
appropriations for putting his plan into successful operation be made. Also, in addition to
the usual appropriation of $100,000 for the purposes as specified in last year's appropriation,
I would recommend that $50,000 be appropriated for the purchase of sheep and for the erec-
tion of the necessary buildings for this agency, as represented in Colonel Dodd's report.

The Indians in the northern portion of this Territory, on account of great scarcity of game,
have suffered much for want of food during the past summer, and must suffer still more during the
coming winter, unless provision is made for their subsistence. They will require an expenditure
for provisions alone of at least $1 ,500 per month at the Abiquiu agency and $1,200 per month at
the Cimarron agency. The goods, I am happy to inform you, have just arrived, with the
exception of the traps, and I am now making arrangements to divide and send them out to
the agencies for distribution. They will be of great service to these Indians, and no doubt
will be thankfully received, and as the quantity is much greater than they have been in the
habit of receiving for the last two or three years, their dissatisfaction will be much abated.
If the Utes and Apaches are settled on the grant known as Ryado, they will require an ap-
propriation of $15,000 for provisions, $8,000 for goods and presents, and $2,000 for the pur-
chase of agricultural implements, and in the course of two years I think they would be self-
sustaining. But if divided, and the Apaches sent south of Fort Stanton and the Utes to the
San Juan, it will require an additional appropriation of at least $30,000 for their removal and
location on such reservations, to be divided between the tribes pro rata, and it will probably
be three years before they will there be able to raise what grain they may require for food.

The Capote and Wamenuches-Utes, if placed on a reservation on the San Juan, will require
an appropriation of $18,000 for provisions, $10,000 for goods and presents, $3,000 for agri-
cultural implements, $4,500 for agency buildings, and $4, 500 for their removal and location.

For the permanent settlement of the Mescalero Apaches, I recommend an appropriation
of $4,500 worth of goods and presents, $6,000 for provisions, $750 for agricultural implements,
$2,750 for removal and location, $3,500 for agency buildings ; total, $17,500; and I think
that in three years they will be self-sustaining and need no further appropriations except for
goods and agricultural implements.

For the permanent settlement of the Mimbres and Mogollen Apaches, I recommend an ap-
propriation of $15,000 for provisions, $7,000 for goods, $2,000 for agricultural implements,
and $3,000 for agency buildings, and have no doubt that in less than three years they will
be enabled to raise all the grain needed for their own bread, and after that 'only an appro-
priation for the purchase of goods and agricultural implements would be required.

Finally, in addition to the foregoing, I recommend an appropriation of $14,000 for the in-
cidental expenses of the Indian service of this Territory, making the total amount for all the
Indians outside of the Navajoes of $160,000. It is not intended nor expected by me that these
appropriations for provisions asked for will alone sustain these Indians ; but I do expect, and
have every reason to believe, that if properly managed they will satisfy their wants and hun-
ger, when taken in connexion and together with the fruits they may gather, the vegetables
and grain they may raise, and the game they may be able to kill on the reservations proposed
and in their respective neighborhoods, especially if said reservations are selected with a view
to the accomplishment of this object. These appropriations, as suggested, amount in the ag-
gregate to $160,000, an average of $10 66 cents to each Indian. The different tribes for
whom these appropriations are asked, not including the Navajoes, number about as follows :

Pueblos 7,000

Mimbres and Mogollen Apaches 1, 500

Comanches 2, 000

Capote and Wamenuche-Utes at Abiquin 2, 500

Utes and Apaches, Cimarron 1, 500

Mescalero Apaches 525

Total 1 5, 025

The Comanches have never heretofore been under the control of this superintendency.
There has been no appropriation for the benefit of the Pueblos for the last ten years ; nor have
the Gila Apaches received any portion of the appropriations for the last four years. Deduct,
then, the appropriations asked for the benefit of these three tribes, $63,000, and you have
$97,000 as the appropriation required for the same Indians, for whom $50,000 has heretofore
been appropriated. *

In conclusion, I cannot but express the hope that the suggestions and recommendations
made in this report will meet with the approval of your department, and that the necessary

148 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE

action on the part of Congress will be taken, so that the policy herein recommended may be
put into successful operation. If, however, the reservation system, as herein set forth, is not
adopted, the appropriations needed will be the same as recommended, with the exception of
the amount required for the removal of Indians, for agricultural implements, and for agency
buildings on the different suggested reservations.
Your obedient servant,

A. B. NORTON,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 44.
Extract from report of Special Agent John Ward, Pueblos.

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO, September 18, 1866.

* I would earnestly call your special attention and recommend that an
appropriation of at least $10,000 be asked for for the purpose of purchasing farming imple-
ments, blacksmith and carpenter tools, steel, iron, &c., for the benefit of the Pueblos. These
articles should be of the right kind and of the best quality; none except such should be purchased.

Enclosed herewith you will please find a "schedule" of such articles as I deem best
adapted to their wants. There should also be established for their benefit a few mechanical
shops with the necessary mechanics to take the charge of the same. This, besides being a
great benefit or help to them in the way of repairing their tools, carretas, (carts,) mills,
nouses, &c., would also be the means of showing them the proper use of the tools, and in the
course of a few years they would be able to have all the necessary mechanics among their
own people. An appropriation of no less than $6,000 should be made for this purpose.

There has been so much said and written upon the subject of the education of the Pueblo
Indians, that I am entirely at a loss to know what further remarks to advance m regard to
this important matter. That the government is in duty bound to do something towards the
education of the children of these honest, industrious and deserving people, requires no
farther arguments.

It has been proven in every possible way that these Indians have scarcely cost the gov-
ernment any trouble or expense since they were annexed to the United States in 1846. They
have not cost the government a solitary dollar for military expeditions, educational purposes,
or indeed for any other improvements whatever, and the only hope now remaining is that
the government, although tardy, will yet take the matter into consideration and act accordingly.

It is a strange conclusion to come at, but it certainly seems that the only way that an
Indian can demand the attention of the government is by committing murders, robberies,
and every other kind of depredations. The simple fact of an Indian being peaceable and
well-disposed is of itself sufficient cause for him to be neglected and his interest and his
welfare entirely disregarded.

The circumstances surrounding the Pueblo Indians have induced me to lay before you
each and every particular connected'with the affairs upon which this report is based, the
importance of which I trust will prove sufficient apology for their length.

In conclusion, sir, allow me to add that this report has been made with all due considera-
tion and respect, my only motive for w r riting as I have being simply with a view to represent
matters to the department as truly and forcibly as possible, with the hope that by doing so
something will be done towards improving the present state of our Indian affairs, and thereby
contribute towards the general welfare and prosperity of this country, as well as that of the
Indians, for whom I have always felt a lively interest. All of which I sincerely hope will
meet your approbation and cordial co-operation.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN WARD,
Special Agent for Pueblos.

Colonel A. B. NORTON,

Sup't of Indian Affairs, Santi Fe, New Mexico.

No. 45.

NAVAJO AGENCY, FORT SUMNER, NEW MEXICO,

August^, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with the regulations of the Indian department, I have the honor to
present my first annual report. I must necessarily be brief, as I have but recently taken
charge of this agency. I arrived here on the 28th day of June last with a train of annuity

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY. 149

goods and agricultural implements, consisting of one hundred and sixty head of cattle and
seventeen large freight wagons, loaded with goods and implements, purchased by Mr. J. K.
Graves, special Indian agent for New Mexico, last fall, for Navajoes. *

There are now on the reservation, of all ages and sexes, 6,915 Navajoes ; a large majority of
whom appear to be contented and satisfied to remain op. the reservation. In July last the
Comanche Indians made a dash on the reservation, and succeeded in killing four Navajoes,
and captured one hundred head of their horses. After this raid some of the Navajoes ap-
peared dissatisfied, and expressed a desire to go to their old country, stating they could not
live in peace on the reservation, as it was located on land belonging to the Comanches.
They were assured that the reservation was for them, and the Comanches would be punished
far trespassing upon their domains, since which time I have not heard any dissatisfaction ex-
pressed.

On the 1st of August last, two Navajoes arrived at the Bosque from the Navajo country,
one of whom was a son of Manueleto, a Navajo chief, who refused to come to the reservation
with this band. These Indians say they were sent by Manueleto and other head men to as-
certain if they would be permitted to come and live at the reservation, and that they were
afraid that they would be punished if they gave themselves up, especially those that ran
away from the reservation last year.

I gave these two Indians passes to return to their old country and report to Manueleto and
their friends the manner the Indians were treated on the reservation, and to say to them that
they could come to and live at the reservation, and that they would not be harmed, but
treated like their people now located there. They started away, apparently well pleased with
the appearance of the Bosque.

Since their departure one hundred and twenty-two Navajoes have arrived at the reserva-
tion from their old country, forty-two men, forty women and forty children, all of whom
except four deserted from the reservation last year ; they were naked, sickly-looking, and
had the appearance of being starved. They report that their people now in their old country
are in a starving and destitute condition ; that they were constantly being harassed by the
troops and Indians hostile to them ; that they could not raise any crops ; and that all would
come to the reservation if permitted to do so. I am of the opinion that nearly all those
running at large will come to the reservation before winter sets in. *

There is now under cultivation on the reservation about three thousand eight hundred
acres of land, two thousand eight hundred acres of which is a government farm, and the
balance, one thousand acres, is cultivated exclusively by the Indians. The whole is under
the control of the commanding officer of Fort Sumner. Non-commissioned officers and
privates are detailed as overseers of the government farm, and the Indians perform most of
the labor of making acequias, ploughing, planting, hoeing, &c. ; a commissioned officer is
selected to take charge and manage the working of the farm. The land is planted in wheat,
corn, oats, barley, pumpkins, melons, &c. A large portion of the farm is, however, planted in
corn, about one-quarter of which looks promising, but the balance will not yield more than
one-third of a crop, which failure is attributed to bad seed. I am of the opinion that the
failure may be attributed to the inexperience of those who superintend the Indians and
manage the farm.

I am satisfied that officers who have been selected to take charge of the farm have used
eveiy effort and done everything in their power to succeed in raising good crops ; but it
cannot be expected that they could succeed w ; th inexperienced men to superintend the
Indians in their labor. Soldiers are detailed for this duty ; many of them know but little
about farming ; those that are acquainted with farming will not take the necessary interest,
as they were not enlisted for this purpose.

I would suggest that four thousand acres of good land be cultivated as a government
farm for the purpose of subsisting the Navajoes in the following manner, which, if adopted,
and properly managed, I think will produce sufficient breadstuff's to subsist them, and a
surplus to pay off many of the employes.

Divide the four thousand acres into ten lots or fields ; employ, to superintend the Indians
and teach them in their labor, for each field a good practical farmer and an assistant ; make
him responsible for the public property, implements, stock, &c., for working the farm,
and that the land is properly cultivated ; erect on each field a house for the farmer and
assistant to live in, and sheds and corrals for the stock and implements ; settle the Indians
who desire to work on the government farm on the outskirts of these fields, allotting to each
family a little land for gardens and a permanent home. There should be employed eight or
ten men who are acquainted with the principles of irrigation, and who have had experience
in making acequias. The whole should be under the control of a good practical farmer.

The Apache Indians, numbering three hundred and thirty -five, (335,) who were located on
the Bosque Redondo reservation, all deserted on the 3d of November, 1865, except nine, who
are still on the reservation. The land they occupied has been consigned to the Navajoes to live
upon and cultivate. They planted it in corn, pumpkins, melons, &c., and their crops looked
promising. But unfortunately during this month, (August, ) heavy rains fell, causing the Pecos
river to overflow a large portion of their fields, damaging their corn crop considerably, and

150 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY.

washed away many of their huts, implements, &c., and destroying their pumpkins, melons,
&c. The waters rose so suddenly that four children and one woman were drowned.

I would recommend that the Navajoes be furnished with at least twelve thousand (12,000)
head of sheep. That the ewes be purchased in New Mexico, and the bucks in the States, in
order to improve the stock. Sheep can be purchased in New Mexico for from three to four
dollars per head. Twelve thousand head of sheep would furnish them sufficient wool for
their blankets, which they can manufacture themselves.

In consequence of high water, I have not been able to ascertain the exact number of ani-
mals among the Navajoes on the reservation, but it is estimated as follows :

Horses 1 , 050

Mules 50

Sheep 1,100

Goats 450

The amount of . produce raised on the Navajo and Apache farms during the year 1865,.
according to the books of the commissary department at Fort Sumner, is as follows, viz :

Pounds of corn 423, 582

Pounds of wheat 34, 113

Pounds of pumpkins 38, 403

Pounds of beans, 3, 515

The cost of subsisting the Navajoes, according to the commissary's books, is as follows,
which amount does not include the pay of employes, but the actual cost of subsistence
stores delivered at the post of Fort Sumuer :

From January 11, 1865, to December 3, 1865 $748, 307 87

From January .1, 1866, to July 31, 1866 407,669 04

On July 31, 1865, there were on the reservation, of all ages and sexes, 8,491 Navajoes.
There are now on the reservation, of all ages and sexes, 6,915, showing a decrease during the
year of 1,576. The only manner that I can account for this large decrease is by deaths and
desertions.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

THEO. H. DODD,

United States Indian Agent for Natajoes.
Colonel A. B. NORTON,

Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Santa F^, New Mexico.

INDIAN HOSPITAL, FORT SUMNER, NEW MEXICO,

September 6, 1866.

SiR: In compliance with your request, I make you a report of the state of the Indians,
as regards their health, since I have entered upon duty as their medical attendant, which I
did November, 1865. I enclose a consolidated report of the number treated, and class of
disease with which they were affected, since January 1, 1866, to August 31. As it is probable
you may have soon entire control of them, I do this, and add a few suggestions that you
may still further advance their welfare. I will give you a statement of how things are, and
were when I came here. I found the Indian hospital to consist of nine small rooms, meas-
uring 15 by 16, two of which were occupied as surgery, kitchen, and two as attendant rooms,
leaving five for the sick, and which should admit of no more than twenty patients at a time,
but in which I have often been forced to put fifty (50.) But at the time I came here the
hospital was sufficiently capacious, there being no more than two or three in hospital at any
previous time.

The building is a regular tumble-down concern ; even rain comes through the roof in
fact I may say the place is only fit to keep pigs in. So, having an idea of what it is, you
may see the necessity of a speedy change to a more suitable one. If the military puts up a.
building according to the plan forwarded them some six months ago, I think we will have
something like a hospital. You can see from my report the vast preponderance of syphilis
over every other disease, and which will always be the case as long as so many soldiers
are around here, because the Indian women have not the slightest idea of virtue, and are
bought and sold by their own people like cattle. At present I think the disease has greatly
decreased, and I do not think that syphilis has ever caused the death or shortened the life
of a single Indian.

On this reservation I cannot gay I have seen a single case of constitutional syphilis. But
what does and will decrease the number of the tribe and finally wipe them out of existence is
the extensive system of abortion carried on by the young women. You may remark how
seldom it is a young woman lias a child ; in fact, none of the women, except they are thirty
or forty, ever think of having one, if they can help it, so that two or three children are con-
sidered a large family.

NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCY 151

I would recommend you to try to keep the women as far from the fort as possible ; to build
a good substantial hospital; to employ a first-class physician, (and you had better have a
good one or none at all, ) always have a good supply of medicines, and, as far as my depart-
ment is concerned, I believe you can do the Indians a vast deal of good. They are remark-
ably healthy at present ; no epidemic has appeared among them since I came here.

And now, sir, hoping the scanty information I have given you may prove of benefit to the
future welfare of the Indians,

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. HILLARY, M. R. C. S. Ireland,
Brevet Captain and Assistant Surgeon U. S. Army.
Colonel TIIEO. H. DODD,

Agent for Navajo Indians, Fort Sumner, N. M.

Consolidated report of sick and wounded Indians under treatment from January 3, 1866, to-
August 31, 1866, at Navajo Indian Hospital, Fort Sumner, New Mexico, under charge of
M. Hillary, brevet captain and assistant surgeon United States army :

Number remaining under treatment December 31, 1865, 10 ; total number under treatment
for above period, 321 ; number discharged from hospital during above period, 309; number
died in hospital during above period, 4 ; number remaining in hospital August 31, 1866, 18..

The ten added to three hundred and twenty-one makes the aggregate 331.

Of the above number treated in hospital there were 235 cases of syphilis, the others being-
mostly diseases of bones, inflammation of the eye, itch, &c. Skin diseases come next in pre-
valence to syphilis, which is due to the uncleanly state of the skin, &c.

M. HILLARY, M. R. C. S. L,
Brevet Captain and Assistant Surgeon United States Army.

No. 47.

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Santa Fe, New Mexico, July 31, 1866.

SIR : Upon investigation I find that the Comanches have been attracted to this Territory
by the number of Mexican traders constantly visiting them with donkeys loaded with mer-
chandise, and in many instances with whiskey and ammunition.

These traders exchange goods for cattle and horses, thereby giving a market and encour-
aging the Comanches to steal from the inhabitants of Texas and Arkansas, which I consider
very unjust to the people of those States ; and I have no doubt that these Mexican traders,
being generally opposed to the Bosque, have incited the Comanches to make these late raids
upon the herds of the Navajoes, in order, not only to get their horses to sell and use, but also
to make the Navajoes still more dissatisfied with their situation ; and, worse than all, these
traders doubtless have supplied the Comanches with ammunition and whiskey.

On my way back from the Bosque I met not less than sixty or seventy of these donkeys,
loaded with goods, and about half that number of traders, and all claim to have permits to
trade with the Comanches from General Carleton, and in one instance from General Pope.
But when I would ask for the permits, some other man ahead had it. In conferring with
General Carleton, I find that he has, in some instances, granted such permits, and when a
Mexican gets one, fifty will trade on the same license, claiming they are doing business for
the man that has the permit. This trade has been really immense of late. I know of on e
man here in Santa Fe who took about one hundred and fifty dollars' worth of goods there,
and came back Avith one hundred head of Texas cattle for his goods.

I consider that General Carleton really had no right to grant such permits. I believe he
thinks so himself now, and agrees to co-operate with me in putting a stop to it altogether. I
have therefore caused to be published an order revoking all permits heretofore issued and not
duly approved by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at Washington, D. C., and stating that
all persons found violating this order should be punished to the full extent of the law.

Hoping that my action in this matter will meet with your approval, I am, very respect-
fully, your obedient servant,

A. B. NORTON,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

P. S. I think an agency established for these Comanches at Fort Bascomb, and a treaty*
would exert a wholesome influence over them. I woiild make them, at least for the present,
au exception to the general reservation policy, of which I am in favor, for reasons which I
will give you in the future.

A. B. N.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY.

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

152 NEW MEXICO SUPERINTENDENCE.

No. 48.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Santa Fe, New Mexico, July 29, 1866

SIR : On my return here from the Bosque I found a party of citizens from Tierra Amarilla
complaining that about twelve hundred Utes were in the neighborhood of that place, and
that they were in a very destitute condition, both hungry and naked, and were committing
depredations upon their herds and turning their horses in upon their crops. They said if
these Indians were given something to eat and some ammunition, that they would go off on
a hunt, and might not molest them until they might be able to gather their crops. I imme-
diately sent for Mr. Manuel Garcia, sub-agent, living at Abiquiu, and, in accordance with
the suggestion of this delegation of citizens visiting me, I have taken the responsibility and
directed him to purchase two hundred sheep, at three dollars each, and distribute among
them. I also purchased, in accordance with the request of said delegation, seventy-five
pounds of powder, two hundred pounds of lead, ten thousand caps, and one hundred pounds
of tobacco, which I gave him and took his receipt therefor, and directed him to proceed im-
mediately to Tierra Amarilla and distribute the sheep, ammunition, and tobacco, and to tell
them to go off on a hunt and stay as long as they can gain a subsistence, and that I could not
promise them anything more short of thirty days it might be sixty. Does my action meet
with your approval, and shall I furnish them with any more provision, and to what extent ?
If I am to furnish any more, you had better send nie the money for that purpose, as the
credit of the Indian department is so poor here that the people ask me forty dollars per head
for cattle that they say they are willing to take thirty dollars in cash for.

If I don't get a letter from you to go to Fort Stanton in a few days, I shall visit these In-
dians soon, and then shall be able to report more fully as to their condition. My own opin-
ion at present is that they should be got on the reservation as soon as possible. I have just
seen Colonel Kit Carson, and that is his opinion, and he and Colonel Dodd both join in
recommending that the location of said reservation be on the San Juau or Rio Los Animas,
which region of country they have both visited and are familiar with. They say there is
abundance of wood and fine timber, excellent water, and a sufficiency of productive and tilla-
ble soil, and good hunting ground. I would therefore make the same suggestion with refer-
ence to this selection of the reservation, if it meets with your approbation, that I made with
reference to that of the Apaches below Stanton, to wit, that General Mitchell, General
Clark, and Colonel Dodd be authorized and empowered to accompany me and make the se-
lection for said reservation

I suggest that Colonel Dodd be associated with us, because, having prospected for gold in
all that region of country for over a year, he is more familiar with it, perhaps, than any
other man to be found in this Territory.

Archuleta having been suspended, asks for an investigation of all charges against him, and
that I be authorized to investigate and report on the same.

Garcia, the sub-agent, who was stationed at Tierra Amarilla, has removed to Abiquiu. He
seems to be a good-hearted and honest man, but is timid and really afraid of the Indians.
He says when the last goods were distributed, that the Indians, although the superintendent
was present, were so dissatisfied with the goods on account of their small amount that they
were uncontrollable and appropriated many things to suit themselves, and that it was really
unsafe for an agent to remain among them if he was without any money or goods to occa-
sionally administer to their wants. Hence you see the necessity of the agency and military
post being at one and the same place.

No money received yet from your department, and I do assure you that on that account my
situation is very embarrassing and by no means a pleasant one.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. B. NORTON,
Superintendent Indian Affairs, New Mexico.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 49.
Memorial to the honorable Congress of the United States.

Your memorialists, the council and house of representatives of the legislative assembly of
the Territory of New Mexico, would most respectfully represent that for many years the
citizens of this Territory have suffered annually in the loss of life and property from the dep-
redations of the Indians in our midst and by whom we are surrounded.

By the reports which are on file in the office of the secretary of this Territory, the loss of
life and property up to this date is as follows, viz : 123 persons reported killed, 32 reported
wounded, and 21 reported captives. Property stolen : 3,559 horses, mules, and asses; 13,473

COLORADO SLPERINTENDENCY. 153

head of cattle ; and 294,740 head of sheep and goats; valued at tke total sum of ($1,377,329 60)
one million three hundred and seventy-seven thousand three hundred and twenty-nine dollars
and sixty cents.

More than eighteen years have now passed since our Territory "was received, as such, under
the protection of the government of the United States, and during all that number of years
our people have been suffering unceasingly from the loss of life and property, occasioned by
the incursions made upon them by the tribes of hostile Indians, notwithstanding the vigilance
of ourselves and the troops of the government.

In addition to the amount of reports made by law to the secretary of our Territory, we are
confident that many thousand horses, sheep, cattle, and other property in which our wealth
consists, have been, during the last two years, annually swept from us by these barbarians
which have not been reported. Our people lie down to sleep surrounded by abundance, but
they arise in the morning to learn that during the night they have been robbed.

Such has been the condition of affairs in this Territory for a series of years, and although
some provision has been made by the Congress of the United States to reimburse such of our
citizens as have been thus robbed by the savages of their property, it has as yet been found
impracticable, on account of the complicated requisites of the law upon the subject, for those
who have suffered the loss to comply w r ith the requirements of the law in force in making up
their claims for indemnification.

Your memorialists, in view of the facts above mentioned, and the impossibility of remedy-
ing them under existing laws, would most respectfully request that a board of commissioners
be created, to consist of three persons to be appointed by the honorable Secretary of the In-
terior Department, to hear the complaints of our people, to examine the testimony presented
to establish the losses our citizens have suffered by Indian depredations, and to report to the
Secretary of the Interior Department the amount that should be paid to the people of New
Mexico, so that those who are rightly entitled may receive their just dues.

And your memorialists, as in duty bound, will ever pray.

Resolved, That the honorable secretary of the Territory be, and is hereby, requested to
forward certified copies of the above memorial to the Vice-President of the United States,
with the request that he will communicate it to the honorable United States Senate, also to
the honorable Speaker of the House of Representatives of Congress, to the honorable Secre-
tary of the Interior, to the honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and to Hon. J. Fran
cisco Chaves, our delegate in Congress.

MIGUEL E. PINO,

President of the Council.
SAMUEL ELLISON,
Speaker of the House of Represent atives, N. M.

Approved :

HENRY CONNELLY, Governor N. M.

I, W. F. M. Arny, secretary of the Territory of New Mexico, do hereby certify that the
foregoing is a translated copy from the original in Spanish as passed by the legislature, which
is on file in my office.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal at Santa Fe,
rw-o T n New Mexico, this 2d day of February, 1866.

W. F. M. ARNY,
Secretary Territory of New Mexico. '

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 50.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, COLORADO TERRITORY,

Denver, October 10, 1866.

SIR: From the time I assumed charge of the duties of this superintendency until the
arrangements were perfected for my recent visits to the different bands of Indians, as agreed
upon personally with you in Washington, the history of its affairs, during a period of seven
to eight months, will be found fully covered by the correspondence which I had the honor to
conduct with the department during that time.

When I arrived in the Territory in October, 1865, the annual distributions had been made,
and my predecessor had but just returned from his interview with the Tabequaches, to whom
he had given annuities of goods and stock. He was under the impression that the Indians,
when he parted with them, had resolved to go across the mountains toward or into their
reservation.

The Uintah and Wampa or Green River bands had received their presents from their agent,
Major D. C. Oakes, and had gone back to their mountain home, where they remained during

154 COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY.

the winter, with an occasional foray after their hereditary enemies, the Arapahoes- and
Cheyennes, but making no disturbance with the white settlements.

It would seem, however, that the Tabequaches never had much idea of going to their
reservation, or, if they had, they very soon abandoned it. A frequent muttering of discontent
with their present condition led .to the correspondence which is on file in your department,
particularly letters dated 14th and 2Jstof February and March 2, marked A, B, C, copies of
which are annexed, and finally to your order that I should meet them and inquire into, and
endeavor to remove, the causes of complaint. Your order also authorized a council for treaty
with the other bands. Both of these missions have been executed to the best of my ability.
It was my purpose, upon my return a few days ago from the Conejos agency, to have made
special reports of these two meetings, but, upon reflection, I have concluded it best to embody
them in this annual report, as by this means, with my previous correspondence, you will
have a connected account of the entire transactions through the year.

In compliance with your instructions I had telegraphed from Philadelphia to Agent Oakes
to make arrangements with the Indians of his charge to -meet for council in Middle Park
about August 15, and in pursuance of the same authority associated with me, as a commis-
sioner, the Hon. A. C. Hunt, of Denver. In accordance with that appointment I met them
in council, having two principal objects in view : first, to induce them to give up the lands
now claimed and occupied by them ; and second, if possible, to persuade them to join their
relatives (the Tabequaches) on the reservation prescribed by the treaty of 1863-'64.

The necessity for the first of these objects arises from the fact that settlers are constantly
going to their country, and that roads are being made through it, very much to the dissatis-
faction of the Indians. I took with me to this meeting, in accordance with your authority,
a quantity of provisions and cattle, and part of the goods which had been stored in Denver
for a year or two past. I met the Indians under very favorable circumstances ; found them
in a very good humor, with only occasional exceptions; but 1 soon learned that they were
utterly averse to parting with the lands in question, and also unwilling to even entertain the
proposition of permitting roads to be made through their grounds.

After discussing these questions with them during several days, in various councils, I ven-
tured to illustrate to them, by a map drawn upon the ground where we were sitting, that
much of the land to which they laid claim had already been surrendered to the government by
their relatives the Tabequache Utes, who had claimed to have a right to it, and had sold it
by treaty. This exasperated them very much, and they at once pronounced, without any dis-
sent, that this pretension was a great wrong and outrage upon them as a people. They said
the Tabequaches had never sold these lands, but if they had done it they had no right what-
ever to do so. They said the country they were now occupying was their own hunting-
ground ; that it was the only locality in which they could find game, and that no power
should disturb them in their possession of it.

I persisted so long in the effort to induce them to abandon their claim and go over to the
White river to a reservation in the immediate vicinity of the Tabequache reserve, that it
seemed likely at one time to lead to unpleasant consequences, and I therefore ceased from
further effort in that direction, and confined myself to the endeavor to induce them to enter
into a treaty for allowing roads to be made through their grounds, with an agreement on their
part not to disturb those engaged in constructing the roads or settling upon them, and for them
to surrender to government authority any individuals among them who might commit wrongs.

It would be difficult to convey to you any adequate idea of the amount of concession they
think they were asked to make in this proposition. They are quite intelligent, and point
with great earnestness to the condition of all the places where the whites have obtained a
foothold. And they say with great force that if roads and settlements are allowed to be
made in their present hunting grounds, which is all that is left to them, the game will vanish
and they will soon be left to staivation. Even now the gan:e is scarce, and they find it very
difficult to obtain food from the chase, or skins to traffic for the articles they need from the
whites. During my recent visits, I traversed the ground over which these Indians roam,
through a great extent, covering a space of not less than four hundred miles from north to
south in the mountains, and westward from the foot-hills not less than one hundred miles,
far beyond the snowy range through the region known as the Middle Park, crossing the South
Park several times, and extending westward far into the San Luis valley, and southward
almost to the line of New Mexico, and during all my journeyings I did not see sufficient game,
if it had all been secured, to subsist the inmates of a single Indian lodge for a month ! It
will readily be seen how imperatively such a state of things as this calls for the earnest and
beneficent intervention of the government.

These bands, the Uintahs and Wampas, are a quiet, peaceably-disposed people ; say they
want to live on friendly terms with the whites, and deprecate any cause of disturbance be-
tween them. Charges are made against them, which are not improbable, that they occasionally
go to the settlements and kill cattle. They are often pressed by hunger when their hunting is
unsuccessful, and many of these charges of depredation are tiue. The natural anger of the
settlers leads to the shooting of the Indians who attempt to steal cattle, and the bloody re-
prisals of the Indians is the cause of nearly every war.

The result of a protracted effort is the treaty which I have the honor to forward. Although
not what I had proposed to myself to obtain. lam sure it will be productive of great good.

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY. 155

Immediately upon my return from this expedition, having previously despatched some of
the goods which were at Denver, I repaired to the Conejos agency, in the San Luis valley,,
to meet the Tabequaches.

My mission there was of a different character, inasmuch as a definite treaty had been en-
tered into with those Indians, and my object was to get them to carry it out. But what seemed
to be a very simple and plain object proved much more difficult of accomplishment than the
purpose aimed at with their northern relatives.

Although they have shown no open hostility, their depredations being confined to stealing
cattle, though in considerable numbers and in some cases making very serious grievances to
individuals, yet it is very evident they have been in quite a bad humor for a long time.
They make very grave allegations against the government, or the government authorities.
They assert, roundly, that the treaty by which it is now claimed they are bound is not the
treaty to which they agreed. They say that the boundaries of the lands surrendered by them,
as well as of the lands reserved to them, are not in accordance with their understanding.

It will be readily understood that it was impossible for them to comprehend what the
amendments meant, when I state that the treaty reprinted as amended was not used in the
council. But the paper presented for ratification simply stated, in the usual form of journal-
izing in a legislative body, that certain words in given lines should be stricken out, and other
words substituted, no statement being shown of what the articles would be when changed.
And these alterations occupied two or three pages, making it difficult, if not impossible, even
for an intelligent reader without the treaty before him to understand what the changes ac-
complished. Their assertion is therefore credible when they say they did not comprehend
the changes effected by the amendments, and they assert, also, that the provision for compen-
sation for their lands as set forth in the present treaty is not what was agreed upon. They
claim that the stock and animals they were to have were reduced in number, and that the
periods over which the annuities were to extend were for fifteen years and not five years, as
they now stand in the treaty. And what is quite remarkable in this connexion, the interpre-
ters agree with them, as does also Major L. Head, their agent, in these assertions.

In reply to my remark to them that they had agreed to this treaty and its amendments, they
said it was such an agreement as the buffalo makes with his hunters when pierced with arrows :
all he can do is to lie down and cease every attempt at escape or resistance. They said the
Great Father at Washington had sent them soldiers with guns and all the means of a terrible
war, and they could only submit. But, notwithstanding all this, they would have reconciled
themselves with the terms of the treaty, if it had been fulfilled even in accordance with its
present provisions, which it is not pretended has been done in a single instance.

When I pointed them to the fact that I had come among them without arms, without sol-
diers, with an open hand, and words of kindness and good-will from the Great Father at
Washington, they said they heard these words gladly, and if they were faithfully carried out
all would yet be well. They said the Great Father had received lands from them, and was
rich enough to pay them all that was agreed upon. But still, if he would not do that, and
would fulfil the treaty as it now stood without delays, they would try to be content.

I was much surprised to find the destitute condition of these Indians. They were in no
wise so comfortable in their circumstances as the Indians of the Middle Park agency. While
a few of them had blankets or skins, or other clothing, the appearance of the mass of them
was that of squalid wretchedness, many of them being nearly naked. And this was during
the hunting season, when they were far better provided than during the previous winter. I
learned that the utter destitution was such that to preserve them from actual starvation their
agent was under the necessity of supplying them with food through the winter and spring,
and I was informed by General Carson that their frequent appeals for food to him at Fort
Garland had compelled him to apply to the commanding general of the department for au-
thority to issue rations to them to save them from miserably perishing from hunger. Of
course, it will at once be seen that this condition of things cannot last, and the question
arises, what is the remedy ?

After the most careful and thoughtful consideration of the whole subject, I have arrived at
the conclusion that the only course to be pursued is, by such means as the government may
deem wise to adopt, to unite all the different bands and fragments of the Utes into one body
and to offer them such inducements as will insure their concentration in a selected portion of
the country. If the territory assigned to the Tabequaches is not sufficient as it evidently is
not then let it be enlarged or exchanged for another more spacious ; maintain a sufficient
military force in the vicinity to repress disorders and prevent encroachments by whites or
Indians on either side ; and by treaty agree to- give them a sufficient number of cattle and
sheep to insure them the means of living when they cannot obtain game. A proper effort in
this direction might induce them to engage in pastoral pursuits when they would not adopt
a general agricultural life.

This was evidently the intention of the government making the treaty with the Tabe-
quaches, but thus far it has failed entirely mainly because of the manner in wilich the treaty
has been fulfilled, or, rather, disregarded because but little attention seems to have been
paid to its terms.

My interview with the Tabequaches satisfied me that it would not be difficult to induce
them, by liberal treatment on the part of the government, to adopt the course suggested.

156 COLORADO SUPERINTENDENT Y.

Their minds have been poisoned on the subject of a reservation, and they have been made to
believe that it was a sort of corral in which they were to be confined ; and when I explained ]
to them that it was a home with which they were to be provided, and on which they were to
be made comfortable, and where they could approach the condition which the whites en
joyed, each having his own rights well defined, it made a marked difference in their temper
and disposition.

It^certainly will not answer to let them remain as they now are, on the borders of the set-
tlements, subject to all the malign influences of the bad men in the neighborhood, without
any of the advantages of civilized life. This matter must first be disposed of, if only as a
question of humanity to the Indians. And, in the second place, the demands of the people
who are flocking into the country from every direction, along the foot hills of the mountains,
in the mines, and on the banks of every stream, require that they should be removed to pre-
vent the constant uneasiness and occasional alarms that now prevail. The demands of the
citizens are not unreasonable ; they see no reason why there should not be the same effort
made by the public authorities to protect them as has been done for all the frontier settle-
ments since the foundation of the government.

The Utes have been the most peaceable of all the mountain or plain Indians, and have
even resisted the efforts of bad white men to induce them to engage in depredations. During
imy visit a case was brought before me, and established quite satisfactorily, of a man who"
had formerly been engaged in the service of the government as an interpreter who had en-
deavored ( to incite them to raids upon the settlements, using as a pretext the failure of the
government to fulfil its treaty stipulations ; but they steadily resisted this fiendish effort,
saying they had faith in the purposes and wish of the Great- Father.

It will naturally be asked how many of thes e people there are to provide for as I have sug-
gested, and I confess this question puzzles me. The numbers in the two agencies of this
superintendency have usually been estimated at from 8,000 to 10,000. I have no doubt that
this is very much exaggerated, and I incline to the belief that half that number would be a
fairer estimate ; from what I can learn, the other bauds of Utes, the Mohuaches, Capotes, &c.,
do not much exceed them, so that it would not be difficult for the government to adopt
measures which, while liberal to the Indians, would actually be economical as well as hu-
mane, so that if, as is now evident, they are destined to vanish from the earth, their ex-
tinction may be unaccompanied by cruelty. ,

In relation to the Indians in charge of Agent Taylor, of this superintendency, I have
nothing to report, for the reason that they have been, during the year, under the care of the
special agency appointed by the department with a view of settling the serious difficulties
existing with them.

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

ALEXANDER CUMMINGS,
Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affairs, Colorado Territory.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

P. S. I had closed the foregoing report, and was much gratified in being able to announce
to you the condition of affairs as they existed, and that during the year of my superintendency
there had been no Indian war. As I was about to forward it, however, I received, by special
messenger, a communication from General Carson, commanding at Fort Garland, enclosing
a despatch from Colonel Alexander, recently in command of Fort Stevens, which I im-
mediately forwarded to you, first by telegraph and afterwards by mail.

It appears from these communications that, while this Territory is the scene of trouble and
disaster, the Indians of this superintendency are, thus far, in no way implicated. But it is
impossible to predict, with any certainty, what may be the result of the present disturbance
in the southern portion of the Territory. I have great hope, however, from General Carson's
well-known influence over the Indians, that, assisted by his prudent counsel, Agent Head may
be able to avert what seems to be an impending calamity. I have no further reliable informa-
tion than that already communicated to you, but casual reports show the whole southern
country to be in a state of srreat alarm.

A. CUMMINGS.

No. 51.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, COLORADO TERRITORY,

Denver, February J4, 1866.

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of February 1, containing
directions for the conduct of Indian affairs in this superintendency, and the returns, reports
&c., necessary to be made. It contains sufficient instructions to enable me to conform nr
proceedings to the usages of the department.

Upon my arrival in this Territory, I made inquiry of my predecessor and of his clerk fo
the rules necessary to my information and guidance in the transaction of Indian business

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY. 157

but could obtain nothing more definite tban a reference to what had been the usual practice
of former superintendents of Indian affairs in questions which might arise under their super-
intendence.

I immediately placed myself in communication with the different agencies. Major D. C.
Oakes, agent for the Uintah and Green River bands, was residing in Denver, and had had
little intercourse with the Indians of his agency since his appointment. The residence of the
agent, more than 200 miles from the Indians whom he is expected to care for, seemed to me
to be entirely contrary to the intention of the department. In order that the agent should
have a proper knowledge of the wants of the Indians, and obtain the influence with them
which he must necessarily possess to enable him to exercise a proper control over their move-
ments, it appeared to me essential that he should live near or with the tribes which he is
appointed to take charge of. Agent Oakes had, under the instructions of Governor Evans,
made an attempt last summer to have an interview with the Indians of his agency, with a
view to find a place suitable for a reservation for them in the vicinity of the reservation
established by the treaty of 1864 with the main body of the tribe, under the agency of
Major Head. He had failed entirely to accomplish the object of that expedition, and had
returned to Denver about the time of my arrival here.

Circumstances were transpiring which seemed to me to require renewed attention to the
subject.

The overland stage line had just completed a survey for a new route for their line from
this point through the mountains to Salt Lake. The road had been in large part finished,,
and the company announced their intention to place their stages upon it in the early spring.
This road traverses for a long distance the country occupied by these two bands of Indians.
In anticipation of the adoption of this new route of travel, immigrants in considerable num-
bers were making arrangements to establish themselves upon it. One party alone, numbering
from twenty -five to thirty persons, supplied with all the means of settlement, agricultural
implements, &c., corn and other grain for seeding in spring, were about to leave here for
the western part of the Territory upon that route.

Under an apprehension that, unless suitable guards were thrown around their movements,,
difficulties might arise between the settlers and the Indians, I deemed it wise, with a re-
newal of the instructions given by Governor Evans to Agent Oakes, to despatch him imme-
diately to the region of country occupied by these two bands, with such additional instruc-
tions (copy of which are enclosed) as would secure the prevention of collision between the
Indians and the settlers, and also, if possible, to find a suitable site for a reservation, as be-
fore indicated. He was delayed somewhat in making his arrangements for starting ; but,
notwithstanding, left under very favorable auspices, and had crossed the Snowy Range, and
proceeded a considerable distance into the Middle Park, nearly half-way on his journey,
when he met with a disaster which compelled him to return.

In enclose a copy of his report to me, marked Aa.

I regret that this second attempt should have failed so signally. I had hoped by this time
to have received from him a report giving a full account of the condition of the Indians,
which I could have submitted to the department for its action in regard to the disposition of
these bands.

I think it highly important that a treaty should be made with these Indians at the earliest
practicable moment, to prevent the possibility of aggressions by either party on the other,
which might lead to trouble and perhaps loss of life, and would certainly involve the gov-
ernment in large expense. Perfect security can in my opinion only be obtained by prompt
action.

So soon as the weather permits, I propose to send Agent Oakes again to the Indians of
his agency, and if possible will visit them myself, and will promptly advise you of the result.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. CUMMINGS,
Governor and ex-ojficio Superintendent Indian Affairs, C. T.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 52.

DENVER, February 12, 1866.

SIR : I deem it my duty under existing circumstances to make a special report to you iii
relation to the affairs of this agency.

On the 26th of September last I made a distribution of presents to my Indians at Empire.
C. T., who immediately thereafter crossed the range en route to their usual winter hunting
grounds in the western part of the Territory. While at the distribution they gave me every
assurance of their firm friendship to the whites and desire to remain at peace with them. _
informed them that the overland mail road was being constructed through their hunting
grounds, and the wish of the government, as expressed by Superintendent Evans, that they

158 COLORADO SUPERINTENDED Y.

should assist in protecting the same. To this their answer was that they were willing the
road should be constructed through their country, but wished to be distinctly understood
that they objected to the location of settlements along the same other than those actually
necessary for the stations. Superintendent Evans made a speech to Anthro, one of their
headmen, in which he promised that a satisfactory treaty should be made with them for Jhe
hunting grounds which would be affected by the location of the proposed road, which speech
I afterwards repeated to the other chiefs, by order of Superintendent Evans. I am informed
by General Hughes, who is constructing the road, that it is completed from Salt Lake City
to Green river in this Territory, a distance of 175 miles, and the hardest part of the road to be
constructed, and that a train of twenty-three wagons was brought from there to Denver, and
that he intends to have the entire road completed from Denver to Salt Lake in the spring, or
early in the summer, which is generally believed he will accomplish. The completion of this
road will open to our hardy and adventurous prospectors an immense area of country of
which but little has heretofore been known, but which has ever since the settlement of the
Territory attracted much attention.

Last summer gold, silver, and coal were discovered in this section, which is reported to have
many fertile valleys, abundance of timber and water powers, a fine climate, and all the
requirements for profitable occupation. Many parties are preparing to invade this new laud
early in the spring, one of which has already started and is now wintering just beyond the
range, waiting for the melting of the snow to resume travel. In view of these facts I deem
it of the utmost importance, both to the general government and to the Territory, that a treaty
be made with the Grand River and Uintah bands at as early a day as possible. It is import-
ant to the government, as a matter of economy, that it be made immediately, as it will be
attended with little expense in comparison with what will be necessary if it shall be neglected
until the rights of the Indians are trespassed upon ; which, under existing circumstances, it
will be next to impossible to prevent, and which would sooner or later, and probably imme-
diately, incite them to open war against the whites.

These Indians occupy a mountainous country inaccessible at present, except in the summer
season, and then only with pack animals; a war with them would consume several years ef
time and a frightful amount of treasure. Your instructions of the 2d December last directed
me to find a suitable place for a reservation and to locate an agency, also to confer with the
Indians in reference to a treaty for the relinquishment of the lands through which the pro-
posed mail road is located. I had hoped to fulfil so much of the instructions as related to
the location of the reservation and agency during the present winter, but did not expect to
get the^Indians into council until spring, they being scattered over a large extent of country
pursuing their winter hunt.

Unfortunately I have been prevented from accomplishing either result thus far, having my
entire outfit of provisions and camp equipage destroyed by fire, and being compelled to return
from across the range on snow shoes, leaving my pack animals behind, as I have had the
honor previously to report to you. The probabilities now are that I shall not be able to get
supplies sufficient for the continuance of the expedition across the range before April. I
respectfully submit the following suggestions in reference to a treaty with these Indians :
That I be instructed to collect them at some suitable place by the 10th of June next ; that the
Hot Sulphur Springs in the Middle Park be adopted as the place of council, and that I be
furnished with provisions sufficient to feed them not only while there, but while coming from
and returning to their hunting grounds.

I offer the following estimate of what will be needed for this purpose, viz :

15,000 pounds flour, 20 cents, (Denver price) $3X00 00

1,500 pounds sugar, 45 cents, " 67500

300 pounds coffee, 50 cents, " 15000

500 pounds tobacco, $1 25, " 62500

40 head of beef cattle, probable cost, $30 3,200 00

Probable cost of transportation, 12 cents 2,076 00

Total 9,726 00

Your instructions of December last say, "If the Indians desire to communicate with this
office, or with government through this office, you will afford them every facility for doing
so." In reference to this instruction it is proper for me to state that my pack animals are
only sufficient to carry the provisions and camp equipage of my small party, consisting, with
myself, of four persons, and it would not be possible for me to bring to Denver and feed on
the trip a sufficient number of Indians to make a treaty which would be binding on the rest
of the tribe, and this disability on my part is a further argument in favor of the suggestions
that supplies be forwarded across the range in wagons in June, or as early as practicable, to
some point where you could see and confer in person with all the chiefs and headmen of the
tribe.

Such an interview had at some point on the west side of the range would tend greatly to
discourage them from constantly visiting the settlements on this side of the mountains, as

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY. 159

they did last year, to the great annoyance of the settlers and to the imminent danger of the
public peace.

I make these suggestions in good faith, trusting that you will not consider that I am pre-
suming to dictate.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

DANIEL C. OAKES,

United States Indian Agent.
His Excellency ALEXANDER CUMMINGS,

Governor and ex-ojficio Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

No. 53.

PHILADELPHIA, June 9, 1866.

SIR : After mature reflection on the subject of the conversation at our last interview, I am
impelled to the conclusion that it is now too late to accomplish the purposes proposed in my
correspondence in February last, to which I beg leave to call your attention, at least so far
as the Tabequache-Utes are concerned, so as to effect their transfer to their new reservation
within the present year. In relation to the Uintah and Green river bands the caae is some-
what different, and steps may be taken now in reference to them, looking to the same end I
proposed in that correspondence.

In lieu, therefore, of the plan then submitted, I would now suggest that a formal council
be held with the latter in the month of August, say about the 5th, for the purpose of making
a treaty with them that will accomplish the surrender of that portion of their territory neces-
sary to the security of the new line of travel and the settlements incident to it, and also their
consent to settle on a reservation in close proximity to that now occupied by the Tabequaches.
This can be done in August, perhaps, as well as at an earlier period, inasmuch as it would,
in any event, only be a preparatory step to an arrangement to be carried into effect next
year.

With regard to the Tabequaches, I think it would be well to make an effort to have as
general an assemblage of the tribe as possible at the annual distribution of the goods and
provisions, to take place, say, about the 20th of August ; and endeavor to withhold their
cattle and sheep this year, with the distinct assurance that the full number belonging to this
year and the next shall be given them as early as may be desired in the coming spring, with
a view to secure their certain transportation to their reservation during the summer. This
can be readily dene, so far as next year's supply is- concerned, as the next session of Con-
gress is a short one, and the appropriation bills will be certain to pass before the 4tfe of
March. This plan will, probably, involve a larger expenditure than would have been in-
curred if my first suggestions had been acted upon and the plan I proposed had been carried
out, because you will naturally have to take great pains to keep the Indians in good humor,
which will be rendered more difficult" by withholding their cattle this year, and will neces-
sarily require some compensating measures. The increased expenditure, however, will be a
small consideration when compared with the result to be obtained.

I feel quite confident that, with a little effort and the skill you have usually evinced in the
management of the Indian affairs, you will be able to accomplish it.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,

ALEXANDER CUMMINGS,
Governor of Colorado Territory, ex-ojficio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 54.

INDIAN OFFICE, July 22, 1866.

SIR : In view of the uneasy condition of the Utah, or Ute, Indians of Colorado, the com-
plaints made by the various bands, and the apprehension felt by the whites lest they may be
induced to commence hostilities, it is deemed advisable that measures be taken at the earli-
est moment possible to meet those Indians in council, and obtain a full and satisfactory un-
derstanding with them. Conferences will be necessary with both the Tabequache-Utes, who
are under treaty stipulations, and with the Grand River and Uintah bands.

In relation to the former bands, you will be able, it is thought, in connexion with the
agent, to explain to them the reasons why they have not received all of the stock promised
to them by treaty their own failure or refusal to remove to the reservation agreed upon be-
ing the prevailing reason ; and you will endeavor, by all proper means, to persuade and
induce those bands, including those which have remained north of the mountains, and asso-
ciated with the Grand River bands, to join the remainder of their people, assuring them of
the desire of the government to provide for them at their proper reservation.

160 COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY.

With the Grand River and Uintah bands, hitherto considered as in charge of Agent Oakes,
you will, with him, endeavor to negotiate a treaty by which they shall cede to the govern-
ment all their rights of occupancy to lands in the northern and western parts of Colorado,
and retire to such reservation as may be provided further south, and, if possible, in the
neighborhood of, or in connexion with, the Tabequache-Utes, to whom they are allied.

Further instructions in detail are not deemed necessary, but you are referred to the tenor
of the conversations recently had with the Secretary of the Interior and myself upon this
subject as your basis of action. I need scarcely allude to the necessity of limiting, as far
as possible, the amount which the government will be called upon to pay for a cession of the
right of occupancy of the land by the Indians, but deem it of importance that, so far as pos-
sible, no promises of money annuities shall be made, but that all payments shall be made in
stock animals, implements, goods adapted to their wants, and for other beneficial objects.

For further reference as to the general policy adopted by the department in its treaties
with Indians, your attention is invited to the within copies of instructions furnished to treaty
commissioners appointed in August, 1865.

You will associate with you Agent Oakes in your negotiations with the Grand River and
Uintah bands. As it is reported that these Indians are expected to assemble about August
12th, it seems very desirable that you should be at hand to meet them as near that date as is
practicable.

Trusting that, by the exercise of sound judgment and wise discretion, you may be able to
reach a satisfactory settlement with the Indians of Colorado,
I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner.

Hon. A. CUMMINGS,

Governor of Colorado, Continental Hotel, Philadelphia.

SUPERINTENDENCY INDIAN AFFAIRS, COLORADO TERRITORY,

Denver, October 11, 16CO.

SIR : I had the honor to forward you yesterday by telegraph a copy of a letter from Gen-
eral Kit Carson, enclosing extracts from one forwarded by him to me from Colonel Alexan-
der, in relation to a recent outbreak of Ufce Indians in the southern part of this Territory. I
now enclose copies of those letters in full, together with my reply to General Carson. The
emergency seemed to me to require that you should have the information immediately, hence
I sent it by telegraph as soon as received. This occurrence is to me as yet wholly "inexpli-
cable. I returned only a week ago from my visit to the Tabequaches, leaving the affairs
with them, as I telegraphed to you, in quite a satisfactory condition.

Several chiefs of the bands now engaged in this disturbance were present at my interview
with the Tabequaches. General Carson had kindly sent for them, with the hope of having
a full understanding with them, as well as with the Indians of my superintendency. They
are, in fact, so closely related that he thought it well they should all understand what was
going on. They had come with apparent cheerfulness, and we left them in, as I supposed,
a good humor ; and I think now there must have been some blunder to have produced this
altered condition. Their chief, Ankotash, who seemed to be the chief of all the Mohuaches,
(Taos Indians,) was supposed to be a fair representative of their temper, and to whom Car-
son alludes, had certainly no other than a peaceable disposition.

A few days more will throw further light upon it, I suppose. There is but a weekly mail
from here to Fort Garland, and for that reason I despatched my letter in reply to General
Carson by a special messenger, by which we gain five or six days.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

ALEXANDER CUMMINGS,

Governor, ex-ojficio Superintendent of Indian Affairs.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

FORT GARLAND, COLORADO TERRITORY, October 7, 186G.

DEAR GOVERNOR : Enclosed I have the honor to forward a letter of Colonel Alexander's.
of October 3, 1866. By it you will see that war, with Cuneatch's band at least, has com-
menced. Yesterday Ulay came to this post to see me ; he says he will not fight. Ankotash
is with them. He has between 90 and 100 lodges.

I have ordered them to camp in the vicinity of the post and not to go to the Huerfano to
receive their presents on the 24th, and would suggest the propriety of our still keeping faith
with them and issuing them their presents on that date at some point in the vicinity of this
post.

COLORADO SUPERINTENDENCY.

161

I am in hopes, from Ulay's action, that the war will not be general. Some young men with
all the bands will probably go on the war path, but, with discretion, I hope to avoid the
greater evil.

It will be better for the people of Colorado not to commence hostilities with the Tabequaches
until they see what they intend to do, as I believe they intend to keep peaceable.

All the Indians that come in here of course I shall have to feed. Write at once and tell
me what funds of the Interior Department you have on hand to spare for this purpose, as I
wish toCSteport at once to the commanding general.
Respectfully yours,

C. CARSON,

Brevet Brigadier General U. S. Volunteers.
Governor CUMMINGS,

Denver, Colorado Territory.

TRINIDAD, COLORADO TERRITORY, October 3, 1866.

DEAR CARROLL : I wrote you this morning, but, as I have had a severe skirmish since
with the Indians, I do not send the note. I killed about thirteen of them, and lost private
Bruxson killed, and privates Cooley and Willis wounded, not dangerously. I had them
handsomely whipped, but unfortunately got out of ammunition and stopped. Just as I had
finished the enclosed to General Carleton, a citizen came and told me they were going to
fight. I immediately mounted and took the gallop. Upon reaching a point five miles up
the river, I saw them attack a ranch. They, however, retreated, when they saw me coming,
leisurely towards the mountains. I pressed them sharply, and had them on the sharp when
my ammunition gave out.

They did not follow me, except a few men to try and get their dead, which I brought off.
I want Captain Stewart to break up their camp and move down on the plateau where the
fort was to have been, encamp compactly there, and throw up some slight breastworks.

Willis is shot in the knee with a ball, and Cooley in the side with an arrow.
Yours in haste,

A. J. ALEXANDER..

Lieutenant CARROLL, Fort Stevens.

SUPERINTENDENCY OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, COLORADO TERRITORY,

Denver, October 11, 1866..

GENERAL : I received your letters, enclosing one from Colonel Alexander relating to the
Indian troubles. The government, as well as myself personally, are under obligations for
your prompt information, as well as for your valuable services in quieting, so far as possible,
the Indians in your vicinity.

I send to-day a special messenger with a view to the security of the annuity goods, which
are on the road to Pueblo, and will reach there probably by the J4th instant. My judgment
accords with yours as expressed in your letter of the 7th instant, and I will issue the goods
at or near the time appointed, if it can be accomplished. The difficulty in the way, how-
ever, is that the contract for delivery of the goods is for the Huerfano, near the crossing.
The party having the contract is unwilling, in the present uncertain condition of affairs, to
undertake to deliver the goods across the mountains. The wagons are loaded for the roads
of the plains country, and he says are not in a condition to cross the mountains. I would
suggest, therefore, that you send a sufficient escort immediately to Pueblo, where the trains
will remain until the escort arrives there, as I deem it entirely unsafe, from what I learn, to
permit them to go unprotected from Pueblo to the crossing.

Then, in addition, if you were to send, with some other troops, as many Indians as you
could safely confide in, with their ponies, say fifty to one hundred, they could relieve the
train of much of the weight of blankets or other goods, and the wagons would then be so
relieved as to enable the contractor to convey the remainder to the fort without difficulty.

I submit this matter to your better judgment, and am sure you will adopt the wisest course
under the circumstances. I will meet you at the crossing, as originally agreed upon, and
hope that by our joint efforts some plan will be adopted to secure the peace of the neighbor-
hood, and enable the government to maintain its faith with the Indians who remain deserv-
ing of its consideration.

You will oblige me by communicating the contents of this letter to Agent Head, who will
of course, be present according to appointment.
Your obedient servant,

A. CUMMINGS,
Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

General C. CARSON,

Commanding Fort Graham.

11 CI

162 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 56.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF MINNESOTA,

DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI

St. Paul, January 1 1,1866.

MAJOR: For the information of the major general commanding I beg to report that five
Indians, from the upper Missouri, came in to one of my scouting stations some time ago
and reported that a general desire existed among all the Indians, except those engaged in
the massacre, to make peace with the whites. Since that event eleven lodges (I am in-
formed) have surrendered to the scouts at one of the stations on James river. With the
same report I also learn that many of those engaged in the massacre are anxious to come in
and surrender, but they are apprehensive of ill treatment. I have directed Indians to be
sent out to encourage them to surrender themselves, with the assurance that no harm shall
accrue to them by that act.

The Medawakantons are now encamped at Turtle mountain, on the British line. The
Sissitons, with Standing Buffalo and Warrata, are encamped on White Earth river. The
locality of the latter stream I do not exactly know, but think it to be a river near the inter-
national line, north of Turtle mountain, and emptying into White lake.

A gentleman from Fort Garry reports that some of the Indians (about sixty) engaged in
the insurrection are now in the employ of settlers along the Red river, in British territory ;
that an effort was made by the balance to unite with the Blackfeet and Assinaboiues, but the
latter declined, and the negotiations terminated in trouble.

I will keep all Indians beyond my exterior line of posts except those that, having partici-
pated in the massacre, come in and surrender themselves for protection. The tribes that de-
sire to negotiate for permanent peace I will encourage, but not enter into any terms with
them, except to have them understand that as long as they behave themselves I will not en-
gage in hostilities against them.

Any further instructions the major general commanding may have will be very acceptable
at this time, as I am inclined to believe the Indian question, as far as it is practicable, may
be settled by treaty before spring.

I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN M. CORSE,

Brevet Major General.
Major J. P. SHERBURN,

Adft Gen'l Department of the Missouri, St. Louis, Mo.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,

St. Louis, January 18, 1866.
Official: JOHN P. SHERBURN,

Assistant Adjutant General.
Hon. SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR,

Washington, D. C.

No. 57.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, DAKOTA TERRITORY,

Yankton, February 15, 1866.

SIR : I beg leave to transmit herewith copies of letters just received from United States
Indian Agent J. M. Stone and Captain Samuel G. Sewall, in relation to the condition of
the Upper Sioux Indians, still at the Crow Creek agency; also copy of my instructions to
Agent Stone for supplying them temporarily with food ; and copy of my letter to Captain
Sewall, in reply to his communication to me of the 6th instant.

You will observe that I urge upon Agent Stone the importance of getting the Yankton
Indians down to their own reservation at the earliest practicable moment. My object in this
is to reduce, by every possible means, the numbers to be fed at Crow creek, where the ex-
pense of feeding them is vastly more than at their own agency, owing to the extreme se-
verity of the weather and the increased depth of snow as you get up the country. I think
it extremely doubtful about my being able to get teams to go through to the Crow Creek
agency at this time, if indeed I am able to get them to start out at all. Day before fester-
day I undertook to get the letter to Agent Stone (copy herewith) expressed to Fort Randall
by special messenger. The messenger was on horseback, and after getting about ten miles
on his road from this place was met by the most terrific snow and wind storm we have had
this winter. The atmosphere was so perfectly filled with snow, for more than sixteen hours,

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENT. 163

that it was not possible to see twenty feet into it. The messei%er lost his way, and, after
drifting about on the prairie for several hours, finally returned to this place about eight
o'clock p. m., thoroughly exhausted and badly frozen. Nothing but the sagacity of his
horse saved his life.

The storm was so severe that several of our citizens who were out to their neighbors, but
a few rods from their own houses, and thoroughly familiar with the roads, could not find
their way home; and two gentlemen, who undertook to reach home, missed their road,
brought up at a barn, and spent the whole night within one hundred feet of a house, not
kuowiug where they were, with the thermometer 15 to 20 below zero. I mention these
facts only to show you the difficulties and danger to be overcome in getting subsistence to
these starving Indians at this time.

I had supposed, indeed I felt confident, that provisions enough were at Crow creek to last
the Indians proper of that agency (and feed them comfortably) to past the middle of April
next ; but to feed five or six hundred extra Indians, of course, will rapidly shorten their
supplies, and if they are to be fed for any considerable length of time I fear their supply
will become exhausted before I can possibly get teams through there with additional sup-
plies.

I have just received advices that there are also from seventy-five to one hundred lodges
of these Upper Sioux Indians at the Dirt Lodges on the James or Dakota river, nearly east
of Crow creek, (distant from Crow creek about seventy -five or eighty miles.) These are
also said to be starving, simply on account of the severity of the winter and the extraordi-
nary depth of snow. I shall endeavor to get reliable information from these people as soon
as possible.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

NEWTON EDMUNDS,
Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affaits.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

CROW CREEK AGENCY, D. T., February 5, 1866.

SIR : There has been, for the past four weeks, between five and six hundred Indians,
counting of Brules, Tetons or Two Kettles, and Yauktons, on this reservation in a starving
condition. More are coming in from the upper Missouri daily, all entirely destitute. They
crowd into the lodges of the Indians who belong here, and beg so piteously for something
to eat that they are obliged to divide the food which they have, and which is scarcely sufficient
for their own subsistence, thus entailing great suffering among the Indians of this agency.

Most of these unwelcome visitors will remain with us until the middle of next month, and
perhaps longer, as the snow is from fifteen to thirty inches deep throughout this section of
the country. The weather at present and for the past month has been unusually cold, the
mercury varying from 10 to 23 below zero.

I cannot hope that they will move off until the weather moderates and the snow partially
disappears. Even then the Tetons and Brules will not leave unless there is a fair prospect
of finding buffalo within a few days' journey.

While they remain here their situation is every day becoming worse, and they more des-
perate ; they threaten to attack and destroy the post if food is not given to them. Captain
Smith, with his small force of thirty men, is taking every precaution to defend the place.

The Brutes who are here say they made a treaty with the peace commissioners at Fort
Sully last fall, and, because of having done so, they are as much entitled to the provisions
here as the Indians who belong on the reservation. This seems to be the belief of all the
Indians here from the upper Missouri, and may yet cause us much trouble and perhaps
bloodshed. A fight with them within a few days would not surprise me.

My supplies on hand are barely sufficient to subsist the Sioux of the Mississippi until the
mouth of April, and we cannot hope to get supplies here by boat until the last of May, and
to bring them by teams any time between now and the first of May will be attended with
great expense. This state of things causes me to hesitate in issuing provisions to Indians
who do not belong here. Humanity dictates that we should do something for these starving
Indians.

I would respectfully ask for authority to issue to them provisions, in limited quantities
weekly, until it is practicable for them to leave. I have determined to increase the quantity
of beef issued weekly to the agency Indians while the others remain here, or until you order
otherwise. Please advise me as soon as possible what course you think it best to pursue.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. M. STONE,
United States Indian Agent.

His Excellency NEWTON EDMUNDS,

Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affair**

164 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

4 HEADQUARTKRS MILITARY COMMANDANT,

Grow Creek Agency, D. T., February 6, 1S66.

SIR : I have the honor to inform yon that during the last four or five weeks this post has
heen surrounded by large numbers of Indians in a state of great destitution, many of them
almost in a starving condition ; they have beset me day after day, begging piteously for
something to eat. In many instances I have complied with their requests, and have issued
to them, from the stores at my disposal, to as great an extent as my limited supplies will
allow, and, finally, have been compelled to decline to issue to them any more. There is no
doubt that they are suffering extremely from hunger, and it is feared that, in their despera-
tion, some of them may be induced to make an attack, with a view of plundering the ware-
houses of the post. I have no doubt of being able to defend the post in case of an attack;
but if a collision can be avoided by a timely and judicious issue of some of the provisions
belonging to the Santees in the hands of the agent, Major Stone, I think it would be better
to do so, and would respectfully suggest that he be authorized to make such an issue. The
snow in this section of the country is very deep, and the weather during the last month has
been extremely cold, so much so as to prevent the Indians from supplying themselves with
provisions by hunting.

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

SAMUEL G. SEW ALL,
Captain 4th United States Volunteers, Commanding Post.

His Excellency NEWTON EDMUNDS,

Governor of Dakota Territory.

No. 58.

CROW CREEK AGENCY, D. T., March 5, 1866.

SIR : In pursuance of the instructions, in your letter of February 17, to come to this place
and get information in relation to the present condition and numbers of the Upper Sioux
Indians now at the Crow Creek agency, and those reported to be at or near the Dirt Lodges,
so called, on James river, also those at Fort Sully, I have the honor to report as follows :

I was delayed a short time on account of transportation, but, by the kindness of Colonel
Thornton, commanding at Fort Randall, I arrived here on the 25th ultimo. I found at this
place, of the Upper Sioux Indians, only eight lodges, numbering sixty-one persons, of the
Yariktonais tribe, under a chief known as the Buck. These Indians are still here, but will
probably leave soon, as they say they have a cache on the prairies and will go as soon as they
can get to it. They have subsisted on the few antelopes and rabbits they could kill, and the
rations issued to them by Agent Stone, of this agency.

About the middle of December there had gathered about this agency two hundred and
forty -nine lodges of Indians, as follows : thirty-one lodges of Ernie's, eighteen lodges of
Two Kettle, eight lodges of Yanktonais, and one hundred and ninety-two of Yanktons. It
is estimated that there were about seven persons per lodge. The snow was too deep and the
weather too cold and stormy for them to go out. They were in a suffering condition, literally
starving, living on bark, dead horses and cattle, killing a few antelopes, and begging of tho
Indians of this agency.

Agent Stone issued provisions to them as their necessities actually required, and urged
them to leave as soon as possible, as he could not feed them from his scanty supply of pro-
visions. By the 20th of February they had all left here but the Yanktonais before men-
tioned, the Yanktons, most of them, going down to their agency, a few to James river.

The Two Kettle band, comprising eighteen lodges, estimated at one hundred and twenty-
six persons, under the chief Spotted-Horse, went to Fort Randall only a few days previous
to my arrival here. The Brules went up the river.

As there has been no one here from the Dirt Lodges since the cold weather set in, I have
not been able to get any information from that section.

As I could not get any satisfactory knowledge of the Indians at Fort Sully, I addressed a
letter to Lieutenant Colonel Pattee, commanding post, who has kindly furnished me the
desired information, as follows : "The number of Indians at this post, and within ten miles
of here, are as follows, as near as can be estimated : Brule Sioux, about sixty lodges, or
four hundred and twenty persons ; Yauktonais, (lower, ) about thirty-five lodges, or two
hundred and forty persons ; Two Kettle, about thirty-three lodges, or two hundred and thirty-
one persons; Minne Kanjous, about eighteen lodges, or one hundred and twenty-six per-
sons ; Blackteet, about twenty-one lodges, or one hundred and forty-seven persons ; Sans-
Arc, about twenty lodges, or one hundred and forty persons ; Unk-pa-pa, about twelve
lodges, or eighty-four persons : Ogel-lal-la, about twelve lodges, or eighty -four persons ;
Santee, about ten lodges, or forty persons ; Ogel-lal-la widows and children, three hundred
persons." He also reports : "These last came from Laramie during the winter, and claim to
be war- widows." " The Brule Sioux that are here act very different from all others, and

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY. 165

I regard them as the worst Indians now in the country ; I can see hostilities in every look
and gesture. I have made weekly issues of rations to all the Indians since the 1st of Feb-
ruary of about three rations per week." He also says: "Omahocta, a chief of the Lower
Yanktonais, is camped at Dirt Lodges, on James river, but cannot say how many are with
him. The snow is now fast going, and I shall drive away these Indians in a few days."

So far as I have been able to learn the Brul6 Sioux are not regarded as of a friendly dispo-
sition and are looked upon with suspicion, but the other Indians seem anxious to preserve
their amicable relations and treaties in every respect. As it is now difficult to transport pro-
visions, it would be impossible to do anything for their subsistence before the time comes that
the Indians can take care of themselves. In a short time the snow will have melted away
sufficiently to enable them to go out and hunt buffalo.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

F. A. L. DAY.

His Excellency NEWTON EDMUNDS,

Goo. and ex-qfficio Supt. Ind. Affairs, Yankton, D. T.

No. 59. ^

DAKOTA TERRITORY,

Executive Office, Yankton, March 7, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to enclose, for your information, copy of a letter received yester-
day from Colonel John Pattee, in command at Fort Sully, showing his issues for one week to
the Indians about that post. You will observe that they amount in the aggregate to seventeen
thousand nine hundred and seventy-five pounds.

I am in receipt, by same mail, of a private letter from Agent Stone, notifying me that he
had forwarded an official report of the number of Upper Sioux Indians at the Crow Creek
agency to whom he had made issues of provisions, and that up to the date of his letter,
February 22 last, he had issued o them upwards of sixty thousand pounds of beef, and flour
and corn in proportion ; and that, in addition to this amount, of which he has an exact
account, at first, or when they arrived there, in order to satisfy their hunger, he for several
weeks issued to the Indians under his charge largely in excess of their usual allowance, with
the understanding that they were to divide the excess with the Upper Indians, thinking this
the only way he could properly feed the outsiders and obtain the requisite receipt from the
chiefs of the bands properly under his charge. On the arrival of the reports mentioned
above. I will promptly forward copies for your information.

The issues made by the military authorities the department of Indian affairs I suppose will
have nothing to do with, beyond proper acknowledgments for their generous and prompt
co-operation in providing for the sufferers. In reference to the last paragraph of Colonel
Pattee's letter, I desire to state that no such statement as is represented was made to the
Brul6 Indians by the commission to my knowledge; this matter is purely an invention of
these Indians, having not the slightest foundation in fact, as the records of the proceedings
of the commission will show ; they are hungry now, and make these statements thinking it
helps their appeal for relief. The amount, however, expended out of the provisions provided
for feeding the Crow Creek Indians I should think it w T ould be proper to restore, or at least
credit to the fund so provided, in order that the office having charge of these Indians may
not be liable to a charge of extravagance in sustaining them. Judging by the figures here-
with, I think I may safely say that had these provisions all been paid for by the department
which hwve been issued to these Indians prior to February 20, it would not have cost much
less than $12,000, perhaps more. What is being done by Colonel Pattee I feel confident
will go a long way towards cementing the friendship between the government and these
Indians, and will be remembered by sufferers for many years.

The season is now rapidly approaching when, in the ordinary course of events, the immense
accumulations of snow in this country will rapidly disappear, and these Indians be able to
subsist themselves by the chase as usual, though, to enable them to do so, it will doubtless be
necessary to furnish them with sufficient provisions to reach a buffalo country. I greatly
fear, however, they will have to be fed until about the 1st of April next.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

NEWTON EDMUNDS,
Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. D. N COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington.

FORT SULLY, February 18, 1866.

SIR : I wish you could be here to-morrow and see me issue to Indians. Last week I
issued 4,412 pounds hard bread, 5,263 pounds flour, 3,600 pounds jowls and pigs' feet, 700

166 DAKOTA SUPERLNTENDENCY.

pounds rice, and 4,000 pounds corn, and will have to make as large an issue, and probably
larger than that, this week.

I am bored to death by the talk of these Indians. More than half of them are the cursed
Brul6s, and they are the meanest Indians in this country. They say that the commission
told them that they would leave a half a boat load of provisions here for them, aud they
want it ; and that they were told that they could get anything they wanted this winter.
They have good memories.
Yours truly,

J. PATTEE,

Lieut. Col. 7th Iowa Volunteer Cavalry, Commanding Post.
Governor X. EDMUNDS.

No. 60.
FORT SULLY, DAKOTA TERRITORY, May 19, 1866.

SlR: Since my arrival at this post, on the 10th instant, several instances of intoxication
have come under my personal observation. I have watched closely to ascertain how the
spirituous liquor found its way into the Indian country, and I am now satisfied that it is left
here, in greater or less quantities, *y almost every steamboat passing up this river. This sort
of illicit traffic here is not, I think, a new thing, but of several years' standing. The
dangerous and blasting influence of intoxicating liquor upon Indian character is too well
known to require details from me. I cannot undertake to answer for the good conduct of
these Indians while liquor finds its way into their country. Are not such acts on the part of
steamboat men in direct violation of our intercourse laws ? and if so, are not the parties
thus violating subject to arrest, and the steamboat to forfeiture 1 Severe and radical measures
should be taken, and an example made of one or two boats. It is doubtful whether any
milder course will effect the desired result. Must the sale, gift, &c., of intoxicating liquor
in the Indian country be to an Indian to bring it within the purview of the law ? Is not the
sale, gift, &c., of liquor to a white person in the Indian country a punishable offence?

I have this day issued and posted in the most conspicuous places at this post notices to
the effect that, hereafter, any white person not connected with the military service found
in a drunken and disorderly state will be immediately ordered out of the Indian country.

I most respectfully solicit an early reply to the foregoing questions.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. R. HANSON,
United States Indian Agent.

Hon. D. X. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 61.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, June 14, 1866.

SIR : Your communication of 19th ultimo, in reference to the introduction of spirituous
liquors into the Indian country by the steamers passing up the river, is received, with a state-
ment of the action taken by you in notifying disorderly persons that they will be ordered out
of the country.

Your action in this respect is approved, and, while acting strictly within your line of duty
and the regulations, you will be sustained by this office. In order to guide you in relation
to the proper course to be pursued in the cases referred to by you, I transmit herewith five
copies of section 20 of the intercourse law as amended by chapter 33 of the laws of 1864.
You will therein find your powers and duties clearly defined. As the law applies as well to
military as to civil officers, it is to be expected that the commanders of the military posts
will cordially unite with you in enforcing this very necessary law.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. X. COOLEY, Commissioner.

J. R. HANSON,

United States Indian Agent, Fort Sully, D. T.

No. 62.

WASHINGTON, D. C., August 29, 1866.

SIR: Referring to report of United States Indian Agent J. R. Hanson for the month of
July last, in relation to contemplated improvements for the Lower Brule Indians, near the^
mouth of White river, in accordance with a treaty made with those Indians in the fall of

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDED Y. 167

1865, the undersigned^ commissioners to treat with the Indians of the northwest, beg leave
respectfully to recommend that, instead of making improvements at White river, efforts be
made to induce this tribe, (Lower Brules,) Two Kettles, and the Lower Yanktonais, to
settle at the Crow Creek agency, recently vacated by the Santees, where are now found all
the necessary buildings for a first-class agency, a large amount of ground already under
cultivation, good soil, and plenty of timber for agency purposes, &c., &c.

It is believed that with proper effort on the part of the agent and others connected with
these tribes, that there will be no difficulty in confining these tribes, who are entirely friendly
with each other, and permanently settling them at this point, where present improvements
can be made available and the Indians better cared for and provided in the future, at much
less expense to the government, than can be done in giving them separate reservations where
no such improvements exist.

Very respectfully, your obedient servants,

NEWTON EDMUNDS.

HENRY W. REED.

ORRIN GUERNSEY.

No. 63.

FORT SULLY, May 30, 1866.

Sm: My last letters were written to the honorable Secretary because they related to army
movements which it was his province to lay before his colleague, the honorable Secretary of
War. The Cheyenne Black Hill expedition has been countermanded, so the dangers in that
legard seem deferred for a season. There may be some bitter complaints of this interfer-
ence with the desire of our frontier men to spread over all parts of the Indian territory, but
jistice and humanity will be advanced by this change of the military orders.

I write to inform you of everything which rumor may magnify into a breach of the treaties
nade with the Sioux. I have inquired diligently on my way up, and hear of nothing worthy
of note. A trader was murdered and his store robbed, near a military post on the Running
Water, about three weeks after we concluded the treaties, about the first of November last,
lut all the Indians say this was done by bands that had not heard of the treaty. A French-
nan, by the name of Joe, found the hide and bones of one of his oxen after the Brules
jassed his hut, on American creek, but the snow was very deep and the ox was far out, and
the Indians were eating all the dead carcasses in the country. It is not, therefore, certain
that starving Indians killed this ox, as charged by Joe. Cattle, horses, everything, have run
out at all the posts ; and while it is averred that Indians could not hunt because of deep
mow, and did eat their ponies by hundreds, and sometimes actually starved, this ox, charged
by Joe against the Bruits, is all that I have heard charged against Sioux Indians. Even
now, when they have nothing but dry buffalo meat, and not much of that, and when they
had reason to expect a feast on our coming, and when the commissary of the army has a
very special order not to feed the Indians coming in to make a treaty, they will run like
chickens to gather the offal from the slop buckets that are carried from the garrison kitchens,
while they pass a pile of corn and hundreds of loose cattle without touching a thing except
when told they may gather up the grains of corn from the ground, where the rats in their
depredations have let it fall from the sacks, (for corn is plenty for horses, mules, and cattle,
where grass is abundant.) but not a pound can be issued to the craving Indians, whose
hunting grounds we occupy. This has not formerly been the plan of the military. The
officers, during the winter, have, in conformity with the intent and meaning of the 16th
section of act of 1834, (Stat. at Large, vol. 4, p. 735,) issued rations to the starving hordes,
which makes it the more vexatious to those now waiting the delay of annuities, agricultural
implements, and presents due and expected under the treaty. Yet not a single act of tres-
pass has come within my knowledge during the several days that I have been here, or before.
If anything had transpired I would have known it. We hear that two boats were fired
into by the Crows, far above the Sioux country, but the facts concerning the trouble with
the Crows are not well authenticated. It is said the firing was merely by boys throwing
their arrows at the wheel-houses in sport. However this may be, the Black Hill expedition
is dispensed with, and eight companies are going up to Fort Benton to suppress the hos-
tilities there, whatever they may be. We hope our boat may be along so as to carry us up
to that scene of action in time to give you full reports of the matter.

A party of about eleven Sioux have gone up the river to fight Arickarees, who, they say,,
have come down into their territory, but it is not certain that these braves will go beyond
the buffalo herds that abound about seventy miles above here. I have cautioned against
this, and the chiefs complain that their young men could not be restrained from resisting
what they considered an invasion of the Sioux. But this I consider nothing worthy of note.
The Sioux and the Arickarees have always been at war, and when we see the Arickarees we-
will try to stop this strife.

I have thus narrated everything of importance. The Ernie's complained that notice had
been given by the Pirneas of a company crossing the Missouri at Niobrara to go up that'

168 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

river, referring, I suppose, to Sawyer's movement. But the chiefs did not consider it im-
portant, although they thought the Platte and the Missouri routes sufficient, according to our
treaty. The Minneconjous chief accuses me of two lies : one that I did cot have thei-e sol-
diers sent out, (which I told them was a mistake of his,) and the other was that I had
promised good times, whereas the snows and storms have been worse than ever, so they have
lost 300 horses. I told the chief we would talk this over when my colleague arrived, with
full copies of our treaties and talks, but in the mean time he must instruct his people in the
matter of providing against winter, which no human power can avert. On the whole, he
said I had told one truth : I had returned with braves as I had promised, and if he could get
a gun and some ammunition as part of the annuity he would be satisfied. But he wished
his share set off before the general delivery occurred, and he hoped we would also keep it a
secret from the rest of the tribe. I am here in advance, as a kind of vidette, assuring tha
3,000 Indians here of the coming of our commission, and the determination of the Great
Father to carry out his treaty according to the letter.

I have the honor to be your very obedient servant,

S. R. CURTIS, Commissioner.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 64.
Report of the Northwestern Treaty Commission to the Sioux of the Upper Missouri.

WASHINGTON, D. C., August 25, 1866.

SlR : In accordance with our appointment by the President of the United .States, and ths
instructions of your department, given orally and otherwise, at sundry times, the under-
signed have, during the past two seasons, visited the various tribes of Indians of the north-
west, for the purpose of making treaties with such as have never made treaties, and renew-
ing treaty arrangements with those who had been parties to the treaty ot Laramie, which
has terminated by its limitation of fifteen years.

We joined in a report of our proceedings last fall, and now submit our further progress,
under your subsequent orders, with some general remarks concerning the character and con-
dition of all the Indians of the northwest.

The scope ot country occupied by the tribes designated in the executive order is tte
prairie region and buffalo range of the northwest ; bounded by the settlement of Minnesota
Dakota, and Nebraska on the east, the Platte river south, the Rocky mountains west, and
the British dominions on the north, covering about six degrees of longitude, by six of lati-
tude. Indeed, many of the tribes extend their movements far beyond these limits. Theii
domain is the vast rolling prairie country, where a short nutritious grass covers the surface,
affording ample food, winter and summer, for the herds of buffalo, antelope, and other game
upon which the Indians depend for their subsistence, shelter, and clothing.

Central in this domain is an isolated spur of the Rocky mountains, known as the " Black
Hills," well denned on the maps of General Warner, from which numerous streams flow in
every direction, tributary to the Platte, Missouri, and Yellowstone.

This mountain region, and the valleys and hills adjacent to the streams, are the fastnesses
to which the tribes resort in winter, or in case of danger of war parties in summer; the
taller grasses of the river bottoms and the cottonwood timber that skirts these streams
affording protection from storms and subsistence for their ponies. But usually, summer and
winter, the Indians follow the buffalo herds, making lodges and clothing of their skins, and
food of their flesh.

Our duties have brought us in council with the principal or headmen of sixteen or
eighteen of these prairie tribes, arid some of our commission, well acquainted with the tribes
occupying the prairie country south of the Platte, observe, as we do in these, a great uni-
formity of manners and customs, and a similar dependence on the roaming herds of buffalo.
They and the buffalo seem to shun the white settlements and the timber countries, being as
closely identified with prairie soil as the peculiar grasses that grow upon it. These tribes of
Indians, so different from the tribes of the forests with which we, in former centuries, have
had occasion to deal, have never, until recently, been molested by the encroachments of
white people. Traders have introduced among them blankets, tobacco, trinkets, sugar and
coffee, but such artificial wants are not universally adopted, the great masses adhering to
the robes for clothing, kinnikinic for smoking, and buffalo meat, fresh or dry, for their sub-
sistence.

They are totally ignorant of agriculture and the arts, with a few exceptions, and seern as
averse to any arrangement which seems to localize them as the buffalo themselves.

The Dakota or Sioux tribes comprise about half of the northwest tribes, but these Sioux
are divided in interest, general location and feeling, so that we have made separate treaties
with their tribes, thereby accommodating their desire of convenient receipt of annuities,
encouraging separations, so that in the event of future- difficulty with some tribes others

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCE 169

may avoid combinations, and we may discriminate in favor of the innocent. Some of the
other tribes speak a language similar to the Sioux, but generally they differ, and only under-
stand signs, which seem to give a common understanding of general subjects to all the
tribes. There are friendly relations among some tribes, but eternal hostility seems to be the
normal character of other tribes toward each other.

As friends, they visit, feast, intermarry, and make war together ; as enemies, they shun
each other, resist territorial encroachments, and, in parties of from ten to a hundred, make
incursions against foes, taking horses and a few scalps, after which achievements they return
to rejoin in dances, which continue several days. This is their understanding of peace and
Avar, never conceiving of a universal peace, or a united general war.

The idea of peace between tribes who have always been at war is regarded by them as
quite preposterous, and they accepted this clause of our treaties with great misgivings as to
its success. They were very willing to try the matter, but say their old enemy cannot
exist without war with them, and the idea of natural and eternal hostilities seems reciprocal
between such ancient foes. War seems necessary to Indians, as the only occasion for dis-
tinctions ; their lodges, and blankets, and ornaments presenting everywhere some rude
emblem, showing the number of their victims, and their success in stealing horses. Their
hostilities against each other are carried on with the same cruelties evinced toward white
victims. We had painful exhibitions of hands, feet, and scalps taken from Indians, which
tribes secured in an Indian conflict at Berthold, while we were there ; the Indians claiming
license to fight each other before treaties were concluded. Indeed, there seems to be less
inherent hostility towards whites than their own species, and most of them, in council and in
presence of their comrades, boasted of their attachment to the whites, and presented with
great pride all letters which they have obtained from whites recommending them. Indeed,
they attributed to us superior wisdom, and are only too much inclined to regard us as pos-
sessed of supernatural powers.

Whence, then, arise the hostilities which so constantly exist? A different language, dif-
ferent customs, and a real conflict of interests in some of their councils. The Indians claim
their hunting grounds, and have for ages contended against the encroachments of other
tribes. Game is their sole dependence, and its preservation is, to them, a vital question
which they fully comprehend. The whites have discovered gold beyond the prairies^ and
their trains, stages, boats, and cars scatter the game, and, to some extent, help to diminish
it. Moreover, the whites who traverse the plains, and navigate our rivers, are quite out of
the reach of those laws which we know are necessary to restrain the avarice, licentiousness,
and cruelty of our species ; besides these causes of conflict, former treaties, and their unfor-
tunate execution, have been real disturbing elements. The treaty of 1851, at Laramie, was
made with a very meagre representation of only a portion of the tribes involved in its pro-
visions. Material changes were made by the Senate, reducing the time it was to run from
fifty to fifteen years, without notice to the tribes. The apportionment to the tribes, as they
were ascertained from year to year, and the increase in prices and probable increase of
fraudulent transactions, annually decreased the amounts received by some tribes, till the
sum actually delivered was such a frivolous compensation for the time of waiting and dis-
tance travelled as to cause great dissatisfaction. Most of the tribes complained to us of this
as unjust arid unaccountable to them, and your commissioners found it difficult to demon-
strate the fidelity of our government, although the Indians appreciated the fact of the limited
knowledge of the tribes being occasions of subsequent extended divisions and consequent
diminutions.

In 1856 General Harney met many of these tribes at Fort Pierre, and made, in the form of
a council and mutual pledges, what has been called the Harney Treaty. The Indians prom-
ised to keep the peace and General Harney promised to help them by organizing and equip-
ping Indian soldiers for each chief. l*he plan was a good one, but was only partially carried
out. The report of the conference was never published in our statutes, but the manuscript
shows, and the Indians say, that in that conference they were told to keep the whites out
of their country, and also to arrest soldiers deserting from the army, or if they could not
arrest to shoot them. The Indians say that agents and traders have advised them to drive
out or destroy intruding whites, and justify their attacks on trains upon the directions, to
which they give names of persons so directing. While it would seem right to give Indians
power to expel intruders, they cannot expel whites without such hostilities as amount to
warfare ; and since gold brings so many into their country and through their country, such
authority would obviously invoke what has occurred, actual Indian war. The Minnesota
outbreak, which involved the massacre of many whites, and the slaughter and expulsion of
the Santees from that State, was presented to these prairie tribes, to whom the Santees fled,
in the most unjust form as to the white man's side of the question ; exciting sympathies and
feelings of revenge throughout many of the tribes otherwise friendly.

Another great cause of trouble is a want of power in the chiefs to restrain their young men,
as the chiefs and most of a tribe desire an evil often named by the chiefs, and attempted to
be remedied by General Harney in his proposed Indian soldiers' organization.

As you will perceive by the journal of our proceedings, which will be submitted and made
part of this report, your commissioners have diligently and patiently inquired into all these
conflicting causes and consequences, desiring as far as possible to conclude and hereaiter

170 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

countervail them by making proper provisions in our new treaties. The great antagonism
of interests between the Indian hunter and the white gold hunter seems irreconcilable, and
can only be gradually remedied.

We have urged the Indians to resort to agriculture, with only partial success, for they
have been taught to regard the proposal as a sinister design of the whites to denationalize
them. We have, however, made some progress. The Santees had learned agriculture be-
fore they were ejected from Minnesota. The Yanktons had for some years attempted culti-
vation, and this year's success is very encouraging. The Brules, heretofore a hostile wander-
ing tribe, have displayed very commendable zeal, planting the seeds we left them as we went
up this spring, and bringing the fruits from their well-cultivated cornfields for the use of our
table on our return. Some of the Yanktonais and Two Kettles at Crow creek have also
entered upon the cultivation of the soil, and other tribes also assure us they would do so if
proper means were afforded them in the way of seeds, tools, and instructions.

But it is useless to expect immediate success in any change of Indians, when the transfor-
mation is so material, as it must be, to 'change the nomadic life of these children of the
prairies to the settled pursuits of civilized life. Their vast domain still affords immense
herds of buffalo, and generally accommodates their preferred pursuits ; the forests and broken
grounds along the streams afford means of escape, with their ever movable effects, from our
troops when sent in force against them ; and they will not, without some resentments or
compensation, yield what they deem their natural right of domain and game, and quietly
resort to means of existence they do not understand, and for which they have some aversion.
They never congregate in large masses, but are widely diffused and separated by ancient
feuds. They cannot, therefore, be struck by a powerful and efficient blow from our armies.
And as to collecting and herding them, as some have suggested, in our great Indian country,
while they are thus wild, timid, and afraid of each other, that is utterly impossible. You
might as well attempt the collection and secure the retention of the wild animals of the same
country. In our judgment the work of conciliation must be the growth of industrious, faith-
ful, and patient administration of proper laws and treaties.

We have, as our journal of last fall and this summer will attest, travelled long journeys
by land and water, endured privations, cold, heat, and every exposure, to see and hear and
understand all the discordant and harmonious elements surrounding our Indian administra-
tion ; and as we made treaties with tribes as they came, we have tried to incorporate the
best remedies we could devise as our earnest inquiries, study, and convictions enabled us
to judge. Our treaties made last fall, and adopted by the President and Senate, have been
fully acknowledged by the tribes, and, as far as we could learn, they have been most faith-
fully observed by the Indians of the tribes.

Our duties this summer brought us in the Indian country higher up the Missouri, where
we met all the various tribes that range near that stream, including the Mountain Crows
who occupy the eastern slopes of the Rocky mountains.

All have been well represented, as our councils and treaties will show, and they seemed
more reasonable as they had heard of our arrangements with other tribes. As the Arapahoes
and Cheyennes had been notified to meet our colleagues at Laramie, we did not attempt to
make treaties with the few we met of these tribes. Their proper location, they stated, was
on Powder river and west of the Black Hills, near the Ogallallas, Oncpapas, and Upper
Brul6s. All those tribes have been hostile, and, so far as we know, some of them may not
come in, but design further trouble. The hostile Santees, formerly of Minnesota, who are
north of the Missouri wintering on the British lines, did not come in, although it is said
notice did not reach them in such a way as to satisfy them they could safely appear before
us. These Santees, and the Upper Blackfeet who reside above Benton, may be troublesome
to trains passing up on the north side of the Missouri near the mountains. The Crows and
Gros Ventres who came down to meet us at Union should have been taken back p.s they came,
on a steamboat. We did not feel at liberty, under instructions, to go beyond Union, so we
arranged transportation back for these tribes on a light loaded boat in the military service,
which was halted near the mouth of Milk river, and turned back ; these tribes, with their
goods, being landed in the wilderness, where there was no place to store their property and
no ponies to transport them ; they were, as we are told, incensed at this, and should have some
explanation and satisfaction for necessary losses. They have been well disposed tribes, and
the disappointment to them is therefore more to be regretted. In the course of our investiga-
tions, incidental evidence of gross frauds in regard to government goods sent to the Black-
feet and other remote tribes was presented, which drew your special attention. Traders in
former years have run the only boats to that region, and had connected with their stores the
only safe places for deposits ; hence a convenient mixture of government and traders' goods
has so amalgamated matters as to have converted government annuities into mercantile
supplies.

Indians are suspicious, and comprehend frauds better than whites suppose ; but they have
been so remote from remedies and so ignorant of the means of redress, fraud has been per-
petrated with such impunity as to be an established system of trade. Such things are not
only pernicious as they defraud either the government or the Indian, but they disgust the
Indian, who comprehends and condemns them.

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDED Y. 171

It would be well for traders to read Indian disclosures, so as to avoid the odium hereafter
of having fraud attached to their names.

Our intercourse with all these tribes during these months of sojourn among them, and the
knowledge also acquired by some of us years before in our official relation with them, con-
vince us of their general desire to do as the Great Father desires them to do. They understand
their natural rights, and only resist their encroachment as their security from extermination.
In their system of social government they enjoy freedom, equality, and fraternity, perhaps
more than any other people. There is some jealousy among them, but they neither quarrel
nor fight in their families or villages. During the months that we have had daily opportuni-
ties to see their domestic habits, (for they always keep their families with them,) we never
saw a quarrel or blow among children or adults. It is our conviction, therefore, that these
prairie tribes are not anxious for war, but opposed to strife, and only want a full knowledge
of the government's wishes, and a fair way opened for their adoption, to secure any rational or
reasonable policy the government may desire.

NATURE AND GENERAL OBJECT OF OUR TREATIES.

All our treaties have a similar outline, although in some details they differ to suit special
localities and particular tribes. Our first aim has been to establish peace, a stipulation with
which they always expressed themselves delighted, except so far as it related to their ancient
Indian hostilities. It was for many weeks always a debatable question as to our being
actually commissioners from the President, whom they regard as their Great Father, possessing
all power. But they complain of having been often deceived by emissaries pretending to be
agents of their Great Father, and they showed us many papers given them which display
egotism, arrogance, or contempt, well calculated to disappoint and deceive the Indians, and
deserving the reprehension and penal inflictions of our government. Even the silver medals
distributed by government, as tokens of regard and an emblem of power, have been counter-
feited, and miserable block tin imitations have been distributed by the traders, thereby
arrogating to themselves special official connection, through their license and their medals,
with the Great Father. And as a further evidence of this false use of their veneration for
their President, they often spoke of their diligence and success in procuring robes and furs
and loading great steamboats, which they had sent out of their country with messages to
their Great Father; but they had. received no returns.

Peace they all desire; but confidence can only be secured by a more faithful, vigorous,
and efficient administration of Indian affairs. Peace, as understood by Indians, these tribes
evidently design to maintain. The chiefs will also do all in their power to prevent trespass
or robbery ; but among Indians, as among white men, there are some lawless characters,
and the chiefs cannot guarantee perfect security to persons and property. Neither should
property be left, as it was at Union last year, and as it has been at Sully recently, exposed
to seizure almost without resistance or the hope of detection, and inviting rogues to the
venture. The rights of property need guarding everywhere ; and in countries where there are
no constables or courts, some other power should protect it. Stock, especially, is liable to
be stolen, although, since our treaties last fall, the starving Indians about Fort Rice, Sully,
and elsewhere, have not been guilty of trespass in this regard, although abundant occasion
and actual starvation were inducements. Yet it must not be supposed that peace means per-
fection, and our treaties contemplate some remedy for trespass, by providing for payments
which are to be retained from their annuities.

Peace, with tribes who are at peace with us, is provided for, except in cases of self-defence ;
but horsestealing warfare is so inherent among some tribes, that only 'partial success is
apprehended. If, as General Harney proposed, each chief had a few Indian soldiers, armed
and equipped, and subject both to the chief and our military and civil officers, such breaches
of the peace could be restrained. The chiefs, however, will try to maintain this clause of the
treaty, and the proper partial assistance of government will ultimately secure success. The
treaties have a provision intended also to restrain horsestealing, which provides for indemnity
by compensation out of the annuity.

RIGHT OF WAY FOR ROADS.

This proposition has been the most difficult to secure. They say, with evident sincerity,
they would like to accommodate this demand, but it seems to them sure to scatter and destroy
the game, which is their sole dependence.

As to the Platte route and the Missouri river, they yield these great lines with some regret ;
but many of the chiefs signed the treaties with strong protests against intermediate lines,
which would bisect^ the angle of these two rivers. In our treaties last fall, the general clause
for a right of way was inserted, but some of the commissioners did not then perceive any
immediate necessity of other intermediate routes, as those by the Running Water, the Chey-
enne, or the Yellowtone; and, in procuring the signatures of some of the chiefs, the
probable delay of such an intermediate route was expressed to the chiefs. Some of your
commissioners, therefore, objected to the movement of troops up the Cheyenne this season
as likely to give offence to chiefs and tribes occupying the country between the Platte and

172 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

the Yellowstone, insisting that here, in the region of the Black Hills, where they congregate
in winter, and occupy the numerous valleys of streams heading in those hills, they must
resist our encroachments, as it seems the only region unmolested by our people, and there-
fore their only remaining buffalo hunting grounds. West of the Black Hills, on the Powder
river and Big Horn, the northern bands of Cheyennes and Arapahoes mingle with some of
the wildest bands of the Ogallallas and Oncpapas. and some of these, as other tribes inform
us, will not peaceably submit to our intrusion or occupation. We therefore apprehend danger
to travellers who attempt to pass through by Powder river or elsewhere between the L'eau
qui Court and the Yellowstone. It is, however, a country which seems to invite adventure ;
and lines of travel, especially one by the Cheyennes, are earnestly advocated, and probably
will be a near, if not the nearest, route from Virginia City, in Montana, to our regular frontier
settlements. The route from Laramie by the Powder river and Big Horn, is also, in con-
nection with the advancement of the Pacific railroad, destined to become a most desirable
way. But before these routes between the Platte and the Yellowstone are established and
occupied by our people, justice to the Indians and safety to the whites, in our judgment,
require some arrangement in the form of compensation to those tribes of Indians that now
depend on the game of that country for their clothing and subsistence. It seems, indeed, hard
to find, in the vast unsettled regions of which we write, where the encroaching scattered
miners and white adventurers seem willing to allow Indians to live unmolested.

Neither do existing laws or regulations seem to have any restraint in the diffusion of whites
over Indian country, especially if gold is supposed to exist in any appreciable quantities.
Even science, without much regard to treaties which promise a security against all explora-
tions, finds devotees, who venture to penetrate the sacred region of the Tetons, hazarding their
own lives, and involving government in apparent disregard of treaty obligations.

In the course of our observations we found a kind of trade being opened from St. Paul,
Minnesota, via Forts Wadsworth and Berthold, to the various towns of Montana. Three
trains passed us on this route, and it seems so well adapted to a great line of travel that we
made special efforts to secure the peaceable passage through the adjacent tribe i. It seems
likely that a route following up the Missouri on the east side of the river will hereafter also
become a great highway. This last route and that from St. Paul would unite at the salient
bend of the Missouri, some twenty miles below Berthold. To support the river and overland
travel, white settlements will be necessary ; for it is quite impossible that teams, stages, and
steamboats should travel thousands of miles successfully without occasion for such rests and
repairs as whites alone could accommodate.

Indeed, the production of vegetables and other articles of food, easily produced in the river
valley, seems absolutely necessary to the comfortable and economical support of the com-
merce which is now rapidly accumulating on those northwestern lines to Idaho and Montana.

Taking these views of the necessity of some development of the Upper Missouri country as
the great highway to the increasing mineral settlements of the northwest, and in harmony
with the general instructions emanating from your department, we obtained from the
Indians the Arikarees, Mandans, Gros Ventres, Assinaboines, and Crows not only a right
of way through their possessions, but also cessions of lands at such points as seemed to us
especially necessary for settlement and cultivation. The cession from the Arikarees, Man-
dans, and Gros Ventres, who inhabit the country about Fort Berthold, cedes the country on
the east side of tthe Missouri, from old Fort Clark to Snake creek or river, being about
forty miles long and twenty-five miles wide, and including the salient point of the river which is
nearest to Devil's lake, Pembina, Lake Superior, and the upper settlements of the Mississippi.

There is a good showing of coal on this land, the quality of which seems very uncertain,
but if at all capable of being made available as fuel, will be of great value to commerce in a
country where wood is extremely scarce. There is also on this land, as elsewhere along the
upper Missouri, considerable timber ; far more than grown on the Platte, Upper Arkansas,
and other streams west of the 96th meridian. The soil, coal or lignite, and timber, united with
the exorbitant prices paid for everything in that region, will probably invite settlements at
this natural junction of commercial lines, so as to accommodate them, and ultimately advance
the development of the northwest prairies.

We also secured the right of way and a cession of lands at the junction and between the
Missouri and the Yellowstone, including the old trading post known as Fort Union. This
cession is to accommodate :i double line, one following the Missouri to Benton, and the other
following the Yellowstone to Virginia City. Both these lines are being opened, and the
distance between the Montana settlements seems to require them. The two routes involve
the necessity of a river crossing, and special accommodations. The Yellowstone is far the
largest tributary of the upper Missouri, appearing to the eye almost equal to the main river.
Navigation, therefore, at this junction of the two rivers is likely to be interrupted at low-
water, so as to require overland, and small boat substitutes for the larger crafts that can
always ascend to the junction. The changes and delays incident to this point involve a
necessity for storehouses, machine shops, and actual settlements. All the arguments favor-
ing such a combination at the point previously mentioned, also appertain to this point at the
mouth of the Yellowstone.

There is also more timber and cultivatable land in the two valleys, especially that of
Yellowstone, and we therefore obtained a cession between the river, extending over a hun-

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY. 173

dred miles up each, and some twenty miles of length opposite the junction on the north side
of the Missouri. These cessions were made by the Assinaboines, Crows, and Gros Venires,
who are evidently the only rightful claimants, as Indians. They also convey not only the
right of way, but make cessions of station grounds not exceeding ten miles square, to accom-
modate any highways that may be constructed through their country, which extends beyond
the head of the Yellowstone into the settled portion of Montana.

This country, between the Yellowstone and the Missouri, is lesj needed by Indians, as it
lies adjacent to tribes always at war with each other, and therefore making frequent incur-
sions in this country. The settlement or occupation of the line of the Yellowstone by
whites will be a protection against these incursions.

In most of the treaties we have inserted an article designed to encourage agriculture, giving
additions to such annuities for each family that settles down in agricultural purmits. Much
depends on the efforts of agents as to the success of this clause. Personal assistance, in-
struction, and encouragement, are necessary to secure success ; and agents should be spe-
cially instructed and w r ell supplied with every means of assistance.

The annuity is so apportioned as to grant from twenty to forty dollars to each lodge or
family, which would give to ea ;h person (estimating six to the lodge) from three to six dol-
lars' worth of clothing and food, (t is enough to protect them from starvation, if properly
expended, and not so much as to induce neglect of other means to sustain themselves.

Such is a general outline of the treaties which we submit for your consideration. The
gradual but inevitable occupation of the whole country by those who will cultivate or pasture
the soil, devolves on government the duty of guarding and instructing the weak and waning
tribes of Indians, so as to protect them against injustice and oppression. The idea of exter-
mination, as sometimes named as a policy to be applied to relieve us from trouble, is too
monstrous to deserve a moment's consideration, and can only exist in the bosom of those Avho
are ignorant of the Indian race, or incensed by revengeful passions more sarage than those
attributed to savages themselves. As a race they are more "sinned against than sinning,"
and the efforts of government should be directed to rules of restraint which will control bad
white men and bad Indians.

Their wars were marauding expeditions, generally small in numbers. If their acts ippear
shocking, it may be attributed to custom more than revenge. They have no newspapers to
relate their success, and have to make ocular exhibitions to their enemies and friends, as
proof of their vengeance and success. In our assaults on Indians, these occasions do not
exist, and all acts of barbarity committed by our troops in retaliation are void of excuse, and
deserve the severest punishment Where Inlian outrage is committed it would be well to
demand the authors before a general assault is directed, for nine times out of ten such wrongs
are abhorrent to the wishes of the chiefs and the tribe, and they would gladly have the guilty
ones punished; they are afraid to punish their young men as they deserve, and would like
to have us do it for them. They fully understand our superior numbers and equipments, and
do not want our resentments to be directed against them.

Their attacks on trains and stages are in conformity to their custom of annoying tribes who
encroach on their hunting grounds, and they wish to discourage our encroachments. Those
who make treaties, and clearly comprehend their meaning, do so in all sincerity, and, until
they believe we have entirely abandoned them, they will fulfil to the best of their abilities ;
but they are so often insulted, defrauded, or ousted from their homes by worthless adventurers,
their young men, in their usual mode, assemble war parties of from ten to fifty, and attempt
retaliation.

Although this may be against the earnest remonstrances of the proper chiefs, and the act
of one excited band, the telegraph announces an Indian war, and our people immediately
desire general hostilities, which fall on fifty innocent tribes who may be unconscious of any
outbreak. While we have been in council with tribes on the Upper Missouri, a trespass or
murder by Indians would be announced as a violation of our treaties and evidence of Indian,
duplicity, though the outrage was committed a thousand miles distant, by Indians totally
unknown to those we were with.

There is not only great ignorance concerning the location of the prairie or blanket tribes,
but malicious, designing, and heedless persons, who seem fond of lavish expenditures, or
anxious to secure some favorite route through or the occupation of some particular Indian
territory, are very ready to give false impressions concerning every Indian transgression.

It would be well for our people to know that there are nearly half a million of Indians on
this continent ; that they are widely separated, speaking different languages, and hundreds
of tribes are totally ignorant of each other ; that most of them have engaged in agriculture,
and adopted the most cordial relations with surrounding whites, while the remainder are also
divided, so as to desire to join the whites in any Indian or rebel warfare which has recently
transpired or may hereafter occur ; that a war party of Cheyennes or Arapahoes, or some
bands of these tribes v: ho have not made treaties, should not give occasion to distrust and de-
nounce the innocent tribes who have most faithfully entered upon treaty arrangements, and,
as far as we know and believe, have for nearly a year successfully maintained their stipula-
tions.

In the report which we and other associates had occasion to make last fall, we took the
opportunity to call your attention to flagrant and patent acts of negligence which had oc-

174 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCE

curred in the administration of Indian affairs, as exhibited to us on Indian territory. Great
improvements have been made in many tilings since that period, and tribes that seemed des-
titute and starving when we first visited them, a year ago, are now surrounded with splendid
cornfields, and rejoicing in apparent affluence.

But our further progress up to more remote tribes has disclosed to us more mortifying evi-
dence of negligence by former agents, and most probably stupendous frauds and outrages in
the administration of Indian affairs, which may deserve your special attention. Immediate
arrangements should ,be made to place the present agents independent of traders, and also
enable them to build safe storehouses, where the goods can be properly protected and pre-
served.

Military officers should also be instructed to give attention to government property, and
not, as in the instance referred to at Union, abandon a post, leaving twenty or thirty thousand
dollars of government goods uncared for. There must be harmonious action between the
agents and military officers in remote localities.

A large portion of the Indian expenditures are made near our settlements, where the mili-
tary has little or nothing to do with the Indians or their neighbors. In such locations
deliveries of goods should be witnessed by some federal officer who should certify that he saw
the delivery. In remote localities, where the military have charge of the police regulations of
the country, the commanding officers of the post should attest the delivery in similar terms.
An Indian mark on a receipt is not sufficient evidence of anything. Without proper wit-
nesses, you have no assurance that he made it, and it is almost impossible to get one of those
wild Indians to comprehend the meaning of his touching the pen. They only conceive there
is some "bad medicine" about it, which they will take on the presentation of a gun or a
b anket. You have some good honest agents now in the administration of affairs ; but our
information admonishes us of the necessity of establishing a better system of vouchers to
secure any permanent justice in the matter of Indian deliveries.

Although the law may not specially connect the Indian and military departments, (and
so far as the settled agricultural tribes are concerned there seems no occasion for a connection, )
yet in the remote administration of government affairs there should be united exertions,
harmonious regulations, and patriotic devotion to the government interest in the maintenance
of treaties and laws.

Our Indian intercourse laws need revision, especially so as to give them more sanction or
certainty of execution in localities remote from marshals, sheriffs, and judges.

It would be well to give military courts concurrent jurisdiction in cases where crimes are
committed by persons traversing our remote Indian country. Plain and palpable violations
of the laws came to our notice, but prosecutions were impossible, and rogues go uuwhipped
of justice. Indians complained, and we believe with justice, of the use of false weights,
measures, and false-bottomed cups, by traders, and we unite with some of our commissioners
who last year recommended some provision of law that will secure true measures and fair
dealing among Indian tribes.

Regulations concerning Indian service have many years ago been published in pamphlet
form. They were evidently made to apply to Indians of a resident character, in easy access
to legal process, and not suited to nomadic tribes, which now constitute almost the only
troublesome Indian communities. These rules need revision, and a sufficient number should
be published to give copies to all agents, officers, steamboat captains, and traders occupying
the country. It should embrace all laws and treaties in operation in form of a digest, care-
fully and conveniently arranged with a proper index, so that travellers could easily under-
stand, and Indians be taught, the kind of intercourse tolerated or prohibited by the national
government. The scarcity or entire absence of copies of old laws and regulations concerning
the Indians is a great inconvenience, and is a main cause of inaction on the part of officers,
and injustice on the part of travellers and explorers.

Ignorance and indifference as to laws and regulations seem to prevail among all classes,
military and civil ; and curt expressions of contempt for all rules of discipline, and arrogant
displays of local rules, orders, councils, and appointments, confuse and confound all rational
sy sternum the administration of Indian affairs. Laws and regulations clearly defining duties
and crimes, with officei's well informed and convenient to act and execute, would greatly
improve our intercourse with the aborigines, save us from reproaches, and prevent many of
the troubles that cost so much of blood and treasure.

EXECUTION OF TREATIES.

In the preceding remarks we have said enough to show the very irregular and imperfect
mode of our execution of treaties. Negligence and frauds have characterized this essential
executive duty. Indians are like children, hopeful and anxious for the goods which the
"Great Father" has promised as an annuity.

As the time of delivery and amount has been uncertain, they are left to conjecture and
often remain away from hunting grounds for months, anxious and starving, with hopes
deferred. The delays of appropriations, delays of purchase and shipment, and especially
the unsafety and uncertainty of navigation on such rivers as the Missouri and Arkansas, are
the fruitful causes of painful disappointment.

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY. 175

A period for the delivery of goods should be selected that would allow, if possible, all
delays to be overcome, and as far as possible the day should be known to the Indians, so
they would all understand when and where payment is to be made.

The season for navigating the upper Missouri is June and July, and at other seasons it is
too difficult for certain dependence. Seeds and agricultural implements should be delivered
in the fall to the agent, so he can commence distribution early in the spring, before rivers
and roads are fairly passable. This is of greater necessity in the arid, countries west, where
the moisture of melting snow and early spring rains are the surest aids to agricultural suc-
cess. The general delivery of other goods, in view of the frequent hindrances before named,
could be also arranged best for delivery in the fall season, say on the first day of November.
But it would be better for the Indians to deliver heavy articles at two or three different
points, as these prairie Indians have no means of conveying or preserving heavy stores.

Without going into details as to the goods which Indians need, we would especially rec-
ommend that every agent be supplied with agricultural tools and plenty of seeds, so as to
invite and encourage agricultural pursuits.

Agents should also have a large supply of corn to issue to starving Indians, and it would
be well to have a supply of coarse, warm cloth or blankets, for destitute Indians, who are
unable to follow the tribes in their hunting excursions.

Medicines, in convenient form, to allay common diseases, should also be kept by the agent
where a physician is not furnished for the tribe.

Generally, annuities should furnish the best of blankets and other articles of warm cloth-
ing for winter, and strong brown muslin for summer apparel. Provisions of corn, corn meal,
potatoes, and less of flour and coffee and sugar, would best conform to their necessities and
means for buying ; and safe, sufficient storehouses be erected at each agency to preserve the
Indian goods from theft or decay.

Agents should be appointed in much greater numbers for the Indians of the northwest.
They should be located at military posts, and in convenient communication with the tribes
they superintend, and never, as they have sometimes been years past, so far from their
agencies as not to know the chiefs of the tribes, or to be known by them. They should be
in convenient and frequent communication with their people, and not secluded and ignorant
of the Indians for whom they pretend to be agents. A better compensation should be given
to agents, and some certain amount of ground should be allowed them for their own personal
cultivation, with a privilege of stock, so as to place the agents in more comfortable and in-
dependent relations to the tribes, and induce them to display their own skill in agriculture
and household affairs.

ESTIMATE OF THE TRIBES.

Tribes generally know the number of their lodges or families, but it is difficult to ascertain
the number of persons.

To make appropriations^ fulfilment of these treaties, these numbers are necessary, and
we submit the approximate numbers, as near as we can judge from our observations and
inquiries :

Lodges. Persona.

Minneconjous .................... 370 ...... 2,220 Range near Black Hills.

C Reserve at mouth of White river;
Lower Brules .................... 200 ...... 1,200< cultivate temporarily near Ran-

( dall.
Two Kettles ..................... 200 ...... 1,200 Cultivation begun at Crow creek.

Blackleet Sioux .................. 220 ...... ],320 Near the Big Cheyenne.

Lower Yanktonais ................ 350 ...... 2, 100 j Cultivate on James^ river and at

Sans Arc ........................ 280 ...... 1,680 East of Black Hills.

Oncpapas ....................... 300 ...... 1,800 North and west of Black Hills.

Ogallallas ....................... 350 ...... 2,100 Near Black Hills.

Upper Yanktonais ................ 400 ...... 2,400 East of Fort Rice.

Assinaboines .................... 440 ...... 2,640 Near Fort Union.

Mountain Crows ................. 400 ...... 2,400 Near Virginia City.

Gros Ventres of the prairie ........ 250 ...... 1 ,500 On Milk river.

Kiver Crows ..................... 250 ...... 1,500 On Milk river.

Gros Ventres, live in large dirt lodges ......... 400

26,360

^ From this table estimates for regular annuities, and also the amount required under the ag-
ricultural provisions of treaties, may be commenced ; but agents should hereafter carefully
ascertain the correct numbers, so that all errors may be ultimately avoided.

176 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

!vf' ^

In conclusion, wo respectfully recommend a further exertion to secure treaties with more
remote tribes who have not been reached by us, but, in our judgment, may, in tfio same way,
be brought into amicable relations, and occasional communication with the officers of the
government, and their ultimate friendship secured.

Hoping that our efforts may furnish information of some value to your department, and
aid in securing peace and better relations between the Indians and whites who occupy the
region of the Upper Missouri, we respectfully submit this as our final report and conclusion
of our services as commissioners for making treaties with Indian tribes.

NEWTON EDMUNDS,
S. R. CURTIS,
ORRIN GUERNSEY,
HENRY W. REED,

Commissioners.
Hon. JAMES HARLAN,

Secretary of the Interior.

No. 65.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, YAXKTON, D. T.,

September 22, 1866.

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge herewith the receipt of your fa /or of the 13th instant,
in the closing paragraph of which you take occasion to invite the undersigned to furnish your
office with information in relation to Indian matters in this superintendency for your annual
report of this year. In compliance with the above request, and with the view of contributing
by every means in my power to perpetuate the peaceful and friendly relations now existing
throughout this superiutendency, I beg leave to submit the following, believing them to be
the most important considerations to be offered for perpetuating and cementing the friendly
relations existing at the present time between the Indians of this superintendency and the
people of the United States.

As an evidence of the good faith of the Indians and their fidelity thus far to their treaty
obligations, I beg leave to state that of the large number of persons (miners) who have passed
down the Missouri river within the past two months, hundreds of them in open boats and
in small parties of from two to twenty persons, in no case have these parties been interfered
with, though passing for upwards of 2,000 miles through an Indian country, where only at
intervals of from 250 to 600 miles is to be found a military post to which such parties could
apply for protection, it being well understood by all the Indians along this river that these
miners carry large sums of money.

A. strict and rigid enforcement of the laws of Congress and the regulations of the depart-
ment in the Indian country in all cases is not only requisite but necessary to the successful
management of Indian matters and the perpetuity of peace. In all cases of failure to com-
ply with such laws and regulations on the part of persons in the Indian country, such per-
sons should be removed by the military authorities at once, thus giving the Indians ocular
evidence of the determination of the government to protect them in every particular.

Second. It is equally important that the new treaties made with the various tribes in this
superintendency should be adhered to in every particu'ar. Great discretion should be exer-
cised, not only in the purchase of the goods, buying only such as are useful and will be of
service and benefit to them, but the distribution should be regularly and promptly made, and
in such manner as fully to satisfy the Indians that they get all that they are justly entitled to
receive by the provisions of their respective treaties.

These treaties having been made in open council and participated in and approved by a
large majority of each tribe or band, after full explanations had been made to them by the
commission on the part of the government, the great mass of the Indians thoroughly un-
derstand all the provisions made for their benefit, and I am fully of the opinion that all that
is necessary to have the great mass of the Indians adhere to and abide by the stipulations
therein is to have them fully convinced that they are receiving from the government all they
are justly entitled to by the provisions of the new treaties. To this end too much pains can-
not well be taken in guarding and making the distribution of annuities under these treaties.
I therefore hope to see some plan adopted that will perfectly protect the Indians in this par-
ticular.

Third. A reasonable amount of stock, agricultural implements, and seeds should be sup-
plied by the government to the various tribes desiring to adopt an agricultural life, and, by
way of encouragement in this direction, I would therefore recommend that the Ldwer Brule,
Two Kettles, Lower Yanktonais, Arickarees, Gros Ventres, and Mandans, each be furnished,
next spring, with a supply of these articles sufficient to test their sincerity in this respect. I
would also recommend that a farmer be allowed the above tribes at Crow Creek agency, Fort
Berthold, whose duty it shall be to take care of this kind of property, and teach the Indiana
how to use it in the cultivation of the soil.

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY. 177

Fourth. I would recommend a thorough investigation into the conduct and management
of all the Indian agencies at least twice in each year, by some person or persons, either from
your office or, at least, entirely disconnected with the service in the district of country to be
investigated. Such persons should be fully empowered to correct any abuses which may
have crept into the service from any cause during the intervals of such visits. At such
semi-annual investigations it would be well, in my opinion, to call upon the Indians at the
various points visited to state their grievances, in case any such had arisen, in open council,
and at the same time they could present to the special agent or visitor the views and wishes
of their respective tribes ; and should they on such occasions advocate a change of policy on
any material point, they should be allowed to give their reasons therefor. They would be
brought in this way, in a very short time, to realize the deep interest the government takes
in their welfare and improvement in civilization. I feel confident that a rigid enforcement of
the laws of Congress in the Indian country, strict and impartial justice in all cases of diffi-
culty arising between Indians and white men, and a full, regular, and prompt compliance
with the treaties recently made with these Indians on the part of the government, are all that
is required to cause the great mass of them to adhere rigidly to their new treaty obligations
and perpetuate the peace now so happily existing throughout our extended frontier settle-
ments.

To reclaim and civilize them is a work of time. It cannot be effectually done in one year
or two, even. It is the work of a generation, perhaps of generations. Patience, kindness,
justice, truthfulness indeed, I believe all the cardinal virtues must be brought into play and
constantly exercised toward them, and with perseverance for a series of years, it will be
found that not an impression has been made, but that a gradual improvement is being made
upon them in the right direction. That they are susceptible of Improvement and civilization
I have no doubt ; but the fact should not be lost sight of that the Indians of the Territory are
all what are termed (and justly so) wild Indians, and have been for many generations, with
strong prejudices and natural inclinations to continue their present mode of life. They are
satisfied with it, and nearly all believe it the only true and independent way to live.

To reclaim them, their prejudices and inclinations have got to be undermined, and to do
this, they must be convinced of the superiority and benefits of a more civilized mode of life.
One lecture or one speech will not accomplish this end. It is a work of example, often re-
peated, attended by a liberal and generous supply of patience and perseverance, with con-
stant kindness and courtesy in all cases, accompanied with strict and exact justice, so fre-
quently repeated and persisted in as to convince the benighted and savage mind of the supe-
riority of our ways over theirs, and cause them to adopt our mode of life in preference to
theirs for its intrinsic merits, and the additional comforts and conveniences obtained thereby,
of which fact they will have become fully convinced, under the proposed course of treatment,
in due time.

The above are deemed by the undersigned as of the first importance in relation to the gen-
eral policy to be^adopted as applicable to all the tribes in this superintendence

I have deemed it better, for the present, to confine myself to general rather than to specific
subjects, aAvaiting future developments and the action of the President and Senate in such of
the new treaties as have not yet been ratified, to indicate to the departments more specific
and definite policy.

There are, however, two tribes in this superintendency (Poncas and Yankton Sioux) who
have for a number of years been settled upon reservations adjacent to the white settlements,
have generally taken the first step towards improvement and civilization, and it is is believed
they are now prepared to make another advance, and to whom it is believed to be proper at
this time to offer encouragement for a second step by the organization of some plan for the
improvement of the benighted and savage mind.

To this end I would recommend the early opening of a school at each of their agencies,
under the auspices of some benevolent religious association, who will look upon it not only
as a duty, but a pleasure, to labor in such a cause, and who will (if necessary) willingly
contribute pecuniary aid in furtherance of this object.

I believe a reasonable amount of religious zeal is not only requisite, but necessary, to sup-
ply the requisite amount of patience and perseverance to secure the end sought, in trying to
educate and civilize these people.

In relation to the course to be pursued in furtherance of this object, I beg leave to state that
I am clearly of opinion that a plan that will separate the pupil from the parent I believe the
one the most likely to be attended with satisfactory results.

Should this plan be adopted, in order to secure the number of pupils desired at the open-
ing of such schools, I would call the whole tribe together, and after fully explaining to
them all the objects and benefits of an education, I would ask them to designate from their
number the persons they desired to have educated. First, I would invite parents to lead for-
ward the child they desired to place in school. If, after this, enough had not been obtained,
the chiefs and soldiers of each band should be called upon to make up the number. Second,
the children shall be taken charge of by the teachers and matrons of the school, should be
clothed, lodged, fed, educated, and kept at the school, under the surveillance of the teacher
or matron at all times.

I can but think that the influence of the twenty -five to fifty young men and women who
12 c i

178 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY.

will leave such schools after the first two or three years, who have learned how to live, how to
manage and transact their business, how to take care of aud make themselves comfortable,
will be more salutary and beneficial to their respective tribes, and contribute far more to
their amelioration than can be done in any other way by an equal expenditure of money.

But slight impression can be made on the adults. Their habits are so fixed and firmly estab-
lished by example, inclination, and education that but little impression can be made upon
their minds. Indeed, I am inclined to think this fact sufficiently demonstiated in all history
of this people already found in your department, and consequently needs no argument to
prove it from me at this time.

This fact being admitted, the question naturally arises where we are to begin, in order to
educate this people with a view to their civilization? The above fact in relation to the adults
being admitted, we have no difficulty in answering the query, to wit, with the children.

We commence our efforts on their children for the following reasons :

First. For the reason that they are more tractable and susceptible of the kind of impres-
sion we design to make on their minds.

Second. They have not arrived at an age in life when their notions of the future have be-
come so fixed in their minds as to make it difficult, if not impossible, to change them.

Third. They have not, for the reason that, they are children, acquired tjjose habits of in-
dolence and carelessness in relation to the future which rei ders it difficult, and in a majority
of cases almost impossible, to induce their patents or the adults of a tribe to change their
mode of life.

Fourth. They are, as a general thing, tractable and bright in intellect, and, away from
their parents, easily influenced by persons enjoying their respect and confidence, and hav-
ing been trained to hat*its of industry for a few years and become accustomed to the com-
forts of a civilized home, which they will have at a school of this kind, it is fair to presume
that they will seek to induce their parent* and friends to adopt a mode of life, bringing t;o
their homes such comforts as they have learned while at school to appreciate and enjoy.

SPECIAL CASES.

PON CAS.

Since my acquaintance with this tribe, for a perio'I of upwards of five years, they have
remained faithful to their treaty obligations in every particular, under circumstances at times
that would have palliated, if not excused, a hostile attitude on their part. The unprovoked
and fiendish attack made by a party of drunken United States soldiers in the fall of 1863
upon a small number of this tribe, while making their way to their reservation and home
from a friendly visit to a neighboring tribe, the Omahas. by which seven of them lost their
lives and considerable property, would have been considered, in a civilized community, as
a sufficient cause for retaliating upon their murderers or their relatives, especially if no effort
was made to indemnify the sufferers, by the government who had permitted its soldiers to
perpetrate such wrongs.

These outrages were at that time proven and the proof and accompanying report forwarded
to jour oflir-e, and are now matters of record there, and the supplemental treaty made with
this till e in March, 1865, extending their reservation down the Niobrarato the Missouri river]
and agreeing to pay them the sum of fifteen thousand dollars, was for the purpose of in-
demnifying this tribe for the losses they then sustained and some others not Yiow in my recol-
lection. The ratification of this supplemental treaty is not only a matter of grave and vital
importance to this tribe, but one that hhould be consummated in strict justice, and as a re-
ward for their fidelity to their treaty obligations and their forbearance under such strong
provocation.

"With this proposed addition to their old reservation, this tribe will, in a very short time,
become not only self-supporting but good and industrious citizens. This tribe has raised a
good crop of corn this year.

YANKTOXS.

The prospects of this tribe, so far as food is concerned, are very flattering, comparing the
present with the past two or three years. They have raised a good crop of corn and have an
abundance of bread for all the tribe if properly cared for and saved for winter use. In some
other respects they are no better off than heretofore. I am sorry to say I see no signs of im-
provement over previous management, so far as the conduct of their business is concerned.
The interest of these Indians seems the last interest consulted in all cases, and this is only
done, if at all, when all other interests are not only satisfied but fully satiated. In this re-
spect I regard the prospects of this tribe as most unfortunate, and that some of the most in-
telligent of them feel this to be true I have every reason to believe. Their shops, instead of
being used to promote and add to the comfort and convenience of the Indians, are first used
for the accommodation and convenience of white people, who are either but temporary resi-
dents from pecuniary interests, or only passing through the reservation on business of their
own. This is especially true of the blacksmith shop. The time of the smith, which is paid

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY 179

by the government out of their funds, and their tools, iron and coal, arc not only used in this
way, but Indian work is often laid aside or wholly neglected for the accommodation of this
class of customers. The time of their farmer, who is in receipt of a liberal salary from the
government and Indians, is largely devoted and consumed in attending to the business of the
sutler store, though long since the agent was specifically instructed not to permit a continu-
ance of these abuses. These matters are often made subjects of serious complaint by In-
dians, not only in private conversation but also in general councils, and the Indians are daily
becoming louder and bolder on this subject on all occasions when they have any idea that a
reiteration of these complaints are likely to be beneficial to them, but they say, and appa-
rently with justice, that they see no way of remedying these evils and obtaining justice so
long as they are permitted to exist. They also fear that in seeking to remedy them they will
lose all, and so, for the sake of the small benefits they now receive at the hands of the govern-
ment, dealt out to them, as it is, by orders on the traders' store to a very great extent, they
keep quiet, hoping, almost against hope, that at some future time a remedy will be provided
by the government, and they enabled to get justice done them at its hands.

It is much more in accordance with my feelings, and a far more agreeable duty, to be able
to commend a public officer for fidelity in the discharge of his official duties and good man-
agement than to feel obliged, from a sense of duty, thus to criticize his acts, and I should re-
frain from doing so at this time but for the fact of a knowledge of the deep interest you have
taken in this agency, and the earnest efforts you have repeatedly made to correct its mis-
managements in these particulars, indeed, any others to which your attention may have been
called, and the additional fact that your efforts, 1 know, have been promptly seconded by this
office in all cases. I simply, in this case, state facts to leave to your department the appli-
cation of the proper remedy. The wrongs and deceptions practiced upon the Indians in the
State of Minnesota for a series of years caused the Indian outbreak and massacre in that
State in 1862, by which 800 persons lost their lives, and the government was involved in a
protracted Indian war, lasting nearly four years and costing many millions of dollars, and
we have no reason to suppose that a repetition of these wrongs in the management of Indian
matters will not at some future time lead to similar results in this Territory. It was the
wish and endeavor of the northwestern Indian peace commission, of which I was a member,
to correct these abuses as far as possible, and to that end every opportunity was given to the
Indians to speak freely of them in council, and every possible pains was taken to satisfy the
Indians that they should be corrected, and that, in future, strict justice and fair dealing
should be meted out to them in nil cases. This course is as applicable to the settled tribes
with whom that commission did not treat as to those with whom they treated.

CROW CREEK AGENCY.

I have as yet seen no reason to change or amend the recommendations made by the north-
western Indian peace commission in relation to this agency. I am clearly of the opinion
that the department will consult its true interest by retaining this location for an Indian
agency and seeking by every fair and honorable means to induce the Brules, Two Kettles,
and Lower Yanktonais to adopt it as their future home.

ARICKAREES, GROS VENTRES AND MANDANS.

These confederate tribes, which hereafter may justly be regarded and treated as one, are
well satisfied with their present location, Fort Berthold, and they should, in my opinion, be
regarded now as a settled tribe. They number about 2,500 people, are frugal and industri-
ous, and are, in my opinion, reliable friends of the government. I would recommend that
they be provided with a resident agent, a farmer, and also with a few yoke of working oxen,
some ploughs, and a reasonable amount of hoes, axes and seed ; also a few cows for their use,
by way of encouraging them in their efforts to cultivate the soil.

ASSINABOINES.

Little, if anything, can be done with this wild and roving tribe to induce them to change
their mode of life at present. A just and equitable distribution of the annuities to this tribe,
regularly made in such manner and under such regulations as to cause them to know and
feel that they are receiving all that is their due, will cause them to remain quiet and friendly
to the government and people in the future.

CROWS AND GROS VENTRES OF THE PRAIRIE.

These tribes expressed a wish to settle at the same point on the left bank of the Missouri
river, immediately above the mouth of Milk river, in Montana Territory I did not see this
country, but from all that I could learn of it I think it as suitable for them as any place they
could now be induced to select. In case the treaties with these tribes are approved and rati-
fied, I would recommend that they be allowed an agent, and that agency buildings be pro-
vided for them at the point selected by them for a home. They will do little or nothing at
present in the way of cultivating the soil.

180 DAKOTA SUPEKINTENDENCY.

SIOUX OF THE MISSISSIPPI, OR SANTEES.

With that portion of this tribe living for the past two years in the vicinity of Fort Wads-
worth, numbering about two hundred lodges, I would recommend that a treaty be made at
an early day, embracing the general provisions submitted to their representatives last sum-
mer by the peace commission while at Fort Rice, which was entirely satisfactory to a large
majority of them at that time, and would have been signed but for the efforts of J. R. Brown,
esq., who has resided among them for some years, who was not suited with it for some
reason, doubtless best known to himself, but which we (the commissioners) thought was only
for the reason that it (the treaty) did not provide liberally for himself and family, and place
him and his partisans in a position to control this tribe and its interests in the future; a scheme
which we, as commissioners, did not think it wise or best to recommend.

In case these people are allowed to remain in the vicinity of their present location, and a
treaty so made with them with that view, I do not think it would be difficult to induce that
portion of them still regarded as hostile to make peace and return to their allegiance to the
government. Should this be accomplished in a reasonable time, I would recommend that
the whole tribe be once more got together, believing that it would be true economy to do so,
and greatly to their advantage.

In conclusion, which also concludes my official connexion with your office, I desire to
thank you for the uniform courtesy I have received at your hands, and at the same time
bear testimony to your earnest and constant efforts (so far as I have been able to judge) to
discharge the duties of your office with strict fidelity and justice to all parties.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

NEWTON EDMUNDS,
General and ex-ojficio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 66.

THIRTY-NINTH CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION,

CONGRESS OE THE UNITED STATES,
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRSENTATIVES,

May 23, I860.

On motion of Mr. Windorn, the following was adopted :

Resolved. That the Secretary of the Interior be directed to examine into, and inform the
House as soon as practicable, how much aioney has heretofore been appropriated for the
erection of school-houses and the maintenance of schools at the different Indian agencies
within the Dakota Indian superintendency, and the manner in which the same has been ex-
pended, together with the present condition of said agencies, and the manner in which the
business of said superintendency and agencies has been conducted.

Attest :

EDWARD McPHERSON, Clerk.

No. 67.

WASHINGTON, D. C., July 16, J86G.

SlR : In compliance with your instructions, under date of 9th ultimo, I left Washington
on the evening of the 10th to visit the Dakota superiutendency and make the investigation
and report upon the conduct of Indian affairs there, which was required by the instructions
above referred to, and by House resolution of May 23, 1866.

Having taken such testimony ns the limited time and the surrounding circumstances would
permit, I have the honor to submit the same, w r ith the following report. I desire to premise
that, in making the investigation, I confined myself to persons against whom there \vas evil
speaking by the people of the Territory, and to transactions in regard to which I could ob-
tain competent testimony. If no evil is spoken of a superintendent or Indian agent in Da-
kota by the people, his conduct must have been circumspect; and if hearsay evidence could
be taken, many volumes might be filled with a report upon Indian affairs in that superin-
tendency.

THE SUPERINTENDENCY PROPER.

Hon. Newton Edmunds, governor and ex officio superintendent Indian affairs, was absent
on duty as one of the peace commissioners to the tribes on the Upper Missouri, and I did not,
therefore, have a fair opportunity to examine into the conduct of Indian affairs in the supre

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCE'. 181

intendency proper. A great deal is said by the people to the prejudice of the governor in his
management of Indian affairs, but I was unable, under the circumstances, to elicit such facts
as would sustain these reports against him. Upon his return from the Upper Missouri I pro-
pose to make further investigation and report in his case.

CROW CREEK AGENCY.

The Indians of this agency having been removed to Niobrara, in the northern superin-
tendency, I did not extend my inquiries to it.

PONCA AGENCY.

I heard nothing said, of a definite character, to the prejudice of Agent Potter. I found
the Indians of his agency nearly all located on their proposed new reservation, about twelve
miles from the agency buildings. In a talk I had with soine*)f the chiefs and headmen they
expressed great solicitude about the ratification of their new treaty. These Indians raised
much more corn last year than they needed, but their liberality in giving it away to their
neighbors, the Yanktons, has almost brought them to want. They have a little more ground
planted this year than last, and the prospects for an abundant crop were never better.

The Poncas have no school, and never had. The school-house erected at the agency by
late Agent Hoffman was never finished, and should not be. It is twice as large as the wants
of the tribe would require ; and the frame-work is as much too light as the building is too
large. The lumber in it is good, and could be used in building a school-house at the new
reservation, should the treaty be ratified. No funds have been expended for school purposes
at this agency since Agent Potter took charge of it.

YANKTON SIOUX AGENCY.

The conduct of affairs of this agency was the subject of universal remark by the people of
Dakota, but the limited time I had at my command, and the difficulty I experienced in find-
ing parties who have been personally cognizant of its details, compel rne to submit an in-
complete report, accompanied by testimony that is little more suggestive of what common
report and the logic of circumstances indicate has been going on there since the agency was
established. I found no one who was acquainted with the details of the management of the
agency under the administration of late Agent Redfield, and very few who were familiar with
its management by late Agent Burleigh. The few I did find were generally unwilling to give
information. One of them, Jacob Rufner, who was the first I called upon to testify, refused
to be sworn, unless I first explained to him what I desired. "I want to know what you want,"
ke said, "because, if it's any slur on Dr. Burleigh, I aint a going to have anything to do
with it. If I do he will fix it so I'll never get anything in the world, and he will drive me
out of the country." Therefore, in making such investigation as I did, I was compelled to
search out individual cases at random, without previous knowledge as to their character.

Among other data placed in my hands to assist me in examining into Indian affairs in Da-
kota were the duplicate accounts of late Agent Burleigh. Many of the facts which I have
elicited are unintelligible, except in connection with these accounts, and I shall, therefore, be
compelled to make frequent reference to them ; and, to make what follows more readily un-
derstood, I must refer to one matter that appears from the accounts alone, which is the man-
ner in which late Agent Burleigh disposed of the property which came into his possession, a
manner which I know you have not tolerated since you assumed the position you now hold.

In looking over the accounts of the late Agent Burleigh I find that, at the end of each
quarter, he reports no property on hand, and in seeking an explanation of this I discover
that he has taken and filed with his accounts the receipts of the Indians for every article pur-
chased by him, or sent to him by the department. The form of receipt generally used is as
follows :

"We, the undersigned, chiefs and headmen of the tribe of Yankton Sioux Indians, hereby
acknowledge to have received from W. A. Burleigh, our. agent, all the goods and property
hereinafter mentioned, and we authorize our said agent to retain in his possession for our
use and benefit, as he may deem best for our interests, and to actually deliver to us for our
use and consumption, such portions, from time to time, as he may judge proper for us."

Under these receipts all farming implements, all work-cattle, all stock, all tools for the
shops and mill, all medicines, all property of every description, from the horses he drove to
the pen-knife he carried in his pocket, were dropped from the agent's returns as "issued
to the Indians."

Take, for example, the following items from the Indian receipt, in late Agent Burleigh's
account, for the third quarter of 1863, a copy of which is herewith : "One pair of bay horses,
7 years old; 1 set of double harness; 1 dozen 17-inch mill files; 2 14-inch ploughs, 2 ox
wagons ; 6 dozen Seidlitz powders ; 6 pounds compound sirup of squills ; 6 dozen ^Ayr s
pills; 1 gallon 95 per -cent, alcohol; 3 bottles of rose water; 1 cook stove; \ M 6,434 Si-
inch official envelopes ; 1 M double thick white letter envelopes ; 1 ream P and P excelsior
legal cap ; ream first-class Congress cap ; 1 ream quarto post; 1 ream P and P first-class
note; 1 seal; 1 penknife; 1 ruling pen; 1 gross pens; 1 dozen lead pencils; 1 cash box;

182 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY

4 bottles, (quart) Arnold's fluid; 4 bottles, 8-ounce mucilage; 2 bottles, 2-ounce, carmine
1 pound of wax ; 1 memorandum book ; 1 ream of vouchers ; 1 port-folio."
To this receipt the agent makes a certificate in these words :

" I certify on honor that I have actually delivered to the chiefs and headmen of the Yankton
Sioux all of the goods and property mentioned in the foregoing receipt.

"W. A. BURLEIGH,
" United States Indian Agent.
"YANKTON AGENCY, September 30, 1863."

Another matter, of much less consequence, however, appears from the accounts above,
which is, that many articles were purchased by late Agent Burleigh with Indian funds which
could not have been necessary for the Indians. The following list will furnish an example :

One sewing-machine, June 1, 1861 $90 00

School-books, July 30, 1861 49 64

Eleven bedsteads, 2 dozen chairs, August 12, 1861 77 30

One cook stove, August 14, 1861 30 00

One cook range, August 21, 1861 75 00

School-books, September 8, 1862 25 97

One cook stove, September 8, 1863 24 00

Four bedsteads, 2 mattrasses, 2 dozen chairs, 4 tables, September 13, 1862 49 00

These accounts also show that the late Agent Burleigh frequently made purchases of corn,
cattle, beef, &c., from the employe's of the agency a thing not allowed under your admin-
istration and they also show, which is of much greater consequence, that all the purchases
made by late Agent Burleigh were made without inviting competition by advertising for
proposals, or in any manner regarding the act of March 2, 1861, on that subject.

I will now briefly refer to some points in the testimony, which is herewith submitted, in
connection with some of the items in the accounts of late Agent Burleigh. First, his ac-
counts show that, in addition to the cattle for beef, he purchased seventy-three yoke of work
cattle, two hundred and seventy-five milch cows, also five horses, fifty-six stock hogs, and
seventeen wagons. The testimony shows that there was at the agency, when Agent Conger
took possession, one milch cow, and no more, which the late agent gave to Mrs. Conger;
but not one ox, one horse, and not one hog, and one wagon. Owing to the peculiar manner
in which the agent accounted for all property which came into his possession, it is difficult
to find exactly what became of these cattle, horses, hogs, and wagons. The Indian receipts,
with his accounts, merely show that they were delivered to the Indians or retained by the
agent to be delivered when he saw proper.

John W. Owens testifies, that "two yoke of cattle, two wagons, some ploughs, chains,
and yokes," were brought from the agency and put under his charge on Dr. Burleigh's farm,
at Bon Homme ; and Ellis W. Wall testifies that he bought from the agent and took from
the agency three yoke of cattle and one wagon. Mr. Owens also testifies that the Indians
killed thirteen oxen for getting into their fields, and that the meat of these oxen was taken to
the warehouse and " sold out to the Indians."

He also testifies that there were large numbers of milch cows brought to the farm of late
Agent Burleigh, at Bon Homme, and that when John H. Burleigh (the agent's brother and
farmer at the agency) brought one hundred and eleven head to the farm, he (John H. Burleigh)
said they were Indian cattle, bought with Indian money. This is not competent testimony,
however, and the remark made by the agent to Owens, in 'regard to this same lot of cattle,
"We have a fine lot of cows here now, and we can keep them till we get a calf or two apiece
from them," is not definite.

fourth quarter, 1862, he has
constructing a school-house."

^ay-roll are the names of Ira Williams, Richard Kane, John Kenny, Wm. Moore,
George Yale, Abram Shaefer, Joseph Brady, Mathew McWherry, James Clark, Dwight
Wodworth, and James Dugan. They are rated as "carpenters," and paid each for twelve
days' service at the rate of one dollar and seventy-five cents per day. I know by personal
observation and by testimony that there is not and never was a school-house at the agency;
and Charles E. Hedges testifies that these " carpenters" were soldiers stationed at the agency.

Third, these accounts show that the late Agent Burleigh paid Sallie D. Faulk, as a teacher,
in the fourth quarter, 1861; and she, and Catherines. Burleigh, as teachers in the first,
second, third, and fourth quarters, 1862 ; and Catherine S. Burleigh and Henrietta Faulk,
as teachers, in the second quarter of 1863.

The testimony shows that there was a school for white children at the agency, taught by
Dr. Barrett, who was paid as a physician, but there was never a school for Indians.

Fourth. The accounts show that Clarence Brown was paid as engineer in the second, third,
and fourth quarters, 1861, and that Alexander Keeler was paid as miller from the time Agent
Burleigh took charge up to March 31, 1863, about two years. The testimony of Guyon and
Bradford shows that the mill was not in running order, and that it was not even standing
until Mr. Bradford set it up in the summer of 1862. Guyon says " the only engineer was
Mr. Bradford ; there was no miller there."

DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENCY. 183

Fifth. The testimony of Mr. Bradford shows that John Thompson and James Mechling
worked for Agent Burleigh on his farm, at Bon Homme, while they were enrolled and paid,
the former as blacksmith and the latter as tinsmith at the agency. The same testimony
shows that this blacksmith did work for parties outside, and was paid for it, and that this
tinsmith made tinware which was sold by Agent Burleigh to his trader.

Sixth. From the time Doctor Burleigh took charge of the agency, early in 1861 until July,
1863, as also in the fourth quarter 1864, and first quarter 1865, Timothy B. Burleigh was
enrolled and paid as a laborer at the rate of forty dollars per month. The testimony of Owens,
Guyon, and Bradford shows that this Timothy B. Burleigh was a son of Agent Burleigh ;
that he was a boy of thirteen years, going to Doctor Barrett's school, or amusing himself in
hunting and trapping.

Seventh. The testimony of Hedges and Wheeler shows that the mess-house at the agency,
which is a stage station where travellers are wont to stop, was kept up, during the administra-
tion of Agent Burleigh, until May 16, 1864, by S. B. Shrader and Foster T. Wheeler, and
that the receipts went into the hands of Agent Burleigh or to his family. These men were,
as the accounts will show, enrolled and paid as employes paid with the money of the Indians
while they worked for the agent.

Eighth. John W. Owens testifies that while he was employed at the agency he was paid
at the rate of one dollar per day, for which he generally signed blank vouchers. k According
to the accounts of late Agent Burleigh the Indians paid Mr. Owens at the rate of $460 per
annum for a part of the time, and for a part at the rate of $480. Foster T. Wheeler swears
that he worked in the mess-house for over two years, for which he received pay at the rate
of twenty-five dollars per month, and no more. In these accounts Mr. Wheeler receipts for
wages at the rate of thirty dollars per month, except for the fourth quarter, 1863, when he
receipts at the rate of forty dollars. After examining one of the pay-rolls he testifies that he
"don't think the figures were there when he signed it."

Ninth. Mr. Owens testifies that in the spring of 1862 he sold to Agent Burleigh " sixty or
seventy bushels (but not more) of corn and forty bushels of potatoes, for twenty-five cents per
bushel for each," for which he signed a blank voucher. This sale would bring Mr. Owens
between twenty-five and thirty dollars. In the accounts of the agent (Burleigh) the voucher
purports to be for one hundred and seventy bushels of corn and two hundred bushels of pota-
toes, at one dollar per bushel each, making three hundred and seventy dollars, for which
amount the agent gets credit. It is scarcely worth while in this connexion to mention that
Guyon swears that he sold Burleigh a mule for eighty dollars which is put down at ninety in
his accounts.

Tenth. Voucher No. 41 in the accounts of the late Agent Burleigh is for "gathering and
hauling from wreck of steamer J. G. Morrow forty tons of freight to the Yankton agency, at
thirty dollars per ton." It is receipted by Charles E. Hedges. The timid Rufner testifies
that he helped to save these goods, and that they were hauled to the agency by some Nor-
wegians that Agent Burleigh hired. Owens testifies that there were different men hired to
haul them, and that he was one of them. Siever Halverson Myhren, a Norwegian, testifies
that he hauled 3,500 pounds of these goods to the agency, for which he was paid at the rate
of seventy-five cents per hundred pounds. Lewis Larson, also a Norwegian, testifies that he
hauled two loads of these goods, for which he was paid at the rate of seventy-five cents per
hundred pounds. He also swears that ten others who hauled at the game time he did were
paid at the same rate. Both Myhren and Larson testify that they were paid by Agent Bur-
leigh, and that Hedges had nothing to do with the matter. Here we see, then, that if there
were really forty tons of these goods, Agent Burleigh paid six hundred dollars for hauling them,
and, having a convenient man at his elbow to sign a voucher, he charges the Indians twelve
hundred for it.

Eleventh. Voucher No. 5 in the accounts of late Agent Burleigh for the second quarter,
1863, is signed by S. B. Shrader, an employe who kept the mess- house. It is for furnishing
twelve hundred meals tor scholars and apprentices, amounting to three hundred dollars. The
accounts of the late agent show that there was an apprentice employed for two quarters in
the blacksmith shop ; Bradford testifies that there was one employed in the blacksmith shop
for about one month, and that there were no other apprentices. The only other indication
that there were apprentices is that, per voucher No. 14 in these accounts, first quarter 1862,
A. J. Faulk is paid for boarding two or three months. As I know there was no school, and
of course no "scholars," who then, if anybodj 7 , ate those twelve hundred ineals ? There is
no doubt the amount of this voucher was paid because, under the mess-house arrangement,
the money went to the agent.

Twelfth. The accounts of late Agent Burleigh for the third quarter 1864 show that certain
claims for depredations by the Yanktons had been paid as fellows :

F.D. Pease, September 30, 1864 .-' $2,571 00

W. A. Dempsey, September 30, 1864 611

Fred. Carman, September 30, 1864 550 00

John H. Owens, September 30, 1864 750 00

Ellis W. Wall, September 30, 1864 ] > 313 75

184 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDENT.

Of these claimants I could only find Owens and Wall. Their testimony in regard to these
claims presents a singular state of facts. I will briefly refer to it : Owens swears that he
placed his claim in the hands of Doctor Burleigh, then agent, for collection, with the agree-
ment that the proceeds should be equally divided between them ; that he signed blank
voucher for it to enable the agent to collect it, and that " he has never received a cent of it."
Wall testified in regard to his claim that he presented it to Agent Burleigh, who said he had
no time to attend to it, but advised him to get Esquire Faulk, the father-in-law of Agent
Burleigh, to collect it ; that he placed it in the hands of the esquire, agreeing to pay him one-
half for its collection ; that when he afterwards spoke to the agent about it he stated that he
did not know how the esquire was getting along with it, but he thought there was no chance ;
that in September, 1864, he was at the agency and saw Doctor Burleigh, but the witness
had better relate the rest in his own language :

He continues, "Dr. Burleigh told me he was very anxious to see me, and told me to be
sure and come to the office before he went away. I saw him before I left ; he told me he bad
been on to Washington, and that there was no show for my claim. He said he wanted to
help the people up here, though, that I was a poor man, and that if I would sign the vouch-
ers, he would give me up my note for $500, and stand his chances for collecting my claim.
I signed the vouchers and he gave me up my note. I have never heard anything further
about the matter since ; this was in September 1864." Funds to pay the claim, $1,31375, in
full, had been placed in agents hands in August 1864. The records of your office show that
the claim of Owens, above referred to, was allowed by Commissioner Dole January 15, 1864.
They do not show that either of the above claims was allowed at all, except that the funds to
pay them were remitted to Agent Burleigh August 19, 1864.

Although Wall testifies that his claim was placed in the hands of Mr. Faulk to be collected
on the shares, (the agent stating he had no time to attend to it,) the records show that Agent
Burleigh, and not Mr. Faulk, presented it to the department.

The note for $500 alluded to by Wall, as above, was given, as his testimony will show, for
four yoke of oxen and a wagon ; one yoke of which oxen were sold to him by Agent Burleigh
from his farm, and three yoke and the wagon from the agency.

The certificates to the vouchers of Owens and that of Wall are both in the same language,
and as follows :

"I certify, on honor, that the above account is correct and just, and that I have actually,
this 30th day of September, 1864, paid the amount thereof.

"W. A. BURLEIGH,

" United States Yankton Agent.'"

There is one other matter of which it may be well to speak, where the accounts of late
Agent Burleigh and the surrounding circumstances do not seem to accord, which is in regard
to lumber. There was no sawing done until 1862, as Guyon and Bradford testify. During
that year agent Burleigh, as per his accounts, purchased 90,000 feet of saw-logs ; in 1863 he
purchased 150,000 feet ; and in 1864, 49,000 feet in all, 289,000 feet. Mr. Bradford, work-
ing by the month, sawed the logs in 1832, and, as per the accounts, was paid by the 1,000
feet for so doing in 1863 and 1864. What became of so much lumber? All the buildings at
the agency do not contain any such quantity. Mr. Bradford swears that Hedges took away
1.500 or 2,000 feet, and Agent Burleigh took to his farm about 4,000 feet. But these items
are insignificant; the agent's accounts throw no light on the subject, for he has receipts of
the Indians, first, for the logs, and afterwards for the lumber.

There are some curious facts contained in the accompanying testimony which do not de-
pend for their interest on Agent Burleigh's accounts. These can be understood by any one
who reads the testimony, however, and I will refer to but one or two of them.

It appears from the testimony of Owens and Bradford that there was butchering carried on
at the agency* either by S. B. Shrader or John H. Burleigh, or both. A beef was killed at
least once a week, and the meat was sold to the employe's and the Indians. Both these
witnesses testify that the Indians bought and paid for meat, and both swear that they never
saw any issued to them for which they did not pay, unless, as Mr. Bradford says, it was
some. part that was not saleable. When the Indians in a fit of anger killed thirteen of the
work cattle at the agency, as testified by Owens, the meat was sold to them. The accounts
of the agent show negatively that neither the Indians nor the government had credit for the
proceeds of such sales.

The condition of the Indians of this agency for the last few months has not been very sat-
isfactory. It was late in the season when crops were put in last year, and what was planted,
owing to bad seed and dry weather, was almost a total failure. Their funds are not sufficient
to clothe and subsist them, and t they have, consequently, suffered to some extent. They
have now more corn planted than ever before, with every prospect, of an abundant crop.
Their summer's hunt, upon which they started while I was at the agency, bids fair to be
successful; they will probably return with abundance of buffalo meat about the beginning of
roasting ear season.

This must complete my report for the present. The facts elicited as to the past conduct of
affairs are isolated and relate to matters of little importance compared with the numerous and
large transactions of the Yankton agency. If the object in view by the House of Repre-

DAKATA SUPERINTENDENCE 185

sentatives in passing the resolution under which I was sent to Dakota is to provide any
remedy or redress for these Indians, it cannot be accomplished without conferring upon a
committee or a special commissioner full authority to make investigation, with power to
send for persons and papers. I would respectfully suggest that this be done.
Respectfully submitted :

ALEXANDER JOHNSTON,

Special United States Agent.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 68. $E<5

YANKTON AGENCY, DAKOTA TERRITORY,

October I, 1866.

DEAR SIR : In accordance with your instructions, I have examined into the condition of
the Yaukton Sioux Indians, located upon a reservation at this point, and now submit ihe re-
sult of such examination.

The seven bands number in all upwards of 2,500 Indians. They are peaceable, contented,
and to a limited degree industrious. Heretofore, from various causes, but little ground has
been cultivated. This year, however, there are nearly a thousand acres covered with a
splendid crop of coin, the favorite food of these as of other Indians, which, it is believed,
will harvest at least twenty thousand bushels. This bountiful harvest secures ample pro-
tection against hunger during the approaching winter months, and, in infusing a tranquil
disposition among these Indians, will prove far more potent than a thousand "bristling bay-
onets."

The annuity goods, which arrived some time since, I saw in the Indian warehouse, and
think they are just what these red men require, having evidently been selected with care and
discretion, embracing, as they do, articles essential to comfort rather than the "tinsel trap-
pings " which, while they charm the eye, are of no practical utility. The distribution of
these it is intended shall take place immediately after the close of harvest, when the warriors
will at once leave for their usual hunting grounds, and devote the remaining months of the
year to killing buffaloes, antelopes, &c.

Agent Conger has constructed several log-houses, and most of the chiefs live in them,
while the Indians of ordinary rank dwell in huts, or "tepes," made of buffalo-skins tanned
as white as the drifting snow.

I was present and assisted in the payment of the cash annuity, $20,000, and witnessed the
presentation, by Agent Conger, of the silver medals to each of the several chiefs. Medicine
Cow objected at first to receiving treasury notes, or, as he said, "bits of paper." " My friend,"
said he, "why is it that our Great Father sends us bits of paper, soiled and wrinkled? He
should send us gold and silver ; that is money, while this," pointing to the greenbacks, "is
useless ; we can make better ourselves with our paint and bark."

The presentation of the medals was an interesting ceremony, the whole tribe being pres-
ent, and the seven chiefs being painted in their most hideous forms. The stoical indiffer-
ence so proverbial to the Indian character was noticeable here each chief received his medal
in profound silence and, to 'all outward appearance, with supreme indifference. The silence,
however, was of but short duration, for no sooner had the presentation ceremonies ceased
than Strike-the-Red, the chief of all the chiefs, arose, and turning to Agent Conger, thus ad-
dressed him :

"My brother, our hearts are glad, and we love you. You encouraged our young men to
plant corn, and they did so ; now we have plenty to eat. I told you last spring you must
visit our Great Father, and tell him from me that when my people gave him their lands he
promised to do certain things, but he had not done it. We were told that our Great Father
had a big war on his hands, and so we waited, believing that after a while the war would
be over, and our Great Father would then remember his promise. ' Tell the Great Father,'
said I, ' that he must now send us our annuity goods and our cash payments, or if not, don't
you return here, for my men can no longer suffer.' We were told that in making a.treaty
with the United States we would become like white people. And now, my friend, you have
returned to us after a long absence and brought with you our goods and our money, and
also a silver token from our Great Father. These make our hearts glad, for we now know that
we are not forgotten, nor shall we be hereafter."

This speech, accompanied with all the usual impressiveness and eloquent gestures so pe-
culiar to Indian character, was listened to by the entire tribe with marked silence, save at
the close, when one universal exclamation of " now-how ! " broke the stillness.

Strike-the-Ree is almost venerated by the people. The frosts of sixty-five winters have
left traces of their whiteness upon his head, and his once erect form is now bowed by the
cares and anxieties of his eventful life. His people implicitly observe his commands, for
they know his only wish is to please them.

186 DAKOTA SUPERINTENDED Y.

I think the selection of Agent Conger to take charge of these Indians was a wise one, for
he has already endeared himself to them, and, by his close attention to their wants, has ma-
terially improved their condition, and made them contented and happy where, formerly, they
were very much discouraged.

Thus the condition of the Yankton Sioux is one of happiness, peace, and plenty. They
work, play, dance, and sing, and in their ignorance of the world fondly believe they are the
"favored few," whose future prosperity has been vouchsafed by a kind Providence.

The reservation, as you know, is situated on the east bank of the Missouri, embracing
several hundred thousand acres of low laud, and running bac-k and taking in a high range
of hilis, or bluffs.

On leaving the agency I paused for a moment on reaching the top of the bluffs, and took
a final view of the peaceful valley below. It was animating and impressive the vast fields
of corn, gently nodding their lofty heads to the morning breeze ; the lodges, glistening like
silver beneath the rays of the^sun; the Indians engaged in their various routine of in-
dustry and pleasure, some before their lodges cutting and drying corn, squashes, pump-
kins, &c., others in grand council, smoking their huge pipes, and evidently discussing grave
affairs, others making bows and arrows, while several were riding their ponies, running and
racing. To my right upon a high, commanding bluff, was the Indian burial ground. The
scene below, with its shouts of gladness, was but a short distance from the great pomend,
the land of the hereafter ; and I could not but think, when contemplating the scene, that
unquestionably the sacred ground, with its inanimate forms resting upon huge tablets placed
high in air, had tended greatly to check the turbulent spirit of the tribe, for their ideas of
the hereafter are deep-seated, though peculiar, and they ever manifest a deep veneration for
the last resting-place of their braves, silent in expression, it is true, and yet by reason of
that silence more eloquent and expressive than words.
Your obedient servant,

J. K. GRATES,
United States Special Agent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 69.

WASHINGTON, D. C., July 26, 1366.

SIR : I respectfully ask that you place m my hands seven medals for distribution to the
seven chiefs of the Yankton Sioux Indians. They have thus far rigidly observed all the
treaty stipulations between government and themselves, and this slight testimonial bestowed
by you would be appreciated by them beyond measure, coming direct to them from their
Great Father, and bearing his features. The medals will be carefully preserved, and tend to
cement in bonds of even greater friendship the amicable relations which for many years have
existed between the United States and this powerful tribe.

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

P. H. CONGER,
United States Yankton Agent.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs.

No. 70.

PONCA AGENCY, D. T., September 10, 1866.

SIR : 111 accordance with the regulations of the Interior Department, I have the honor to
submit -this my second annual report.

The unsettled state of the affairs of this tribe has prevented me from making the improve-
ments which I should otherwise have done. The supplementary treaty made with this tribe,
in the spring of 1865, not yet having been ratified, I have not felt authorized to go on and
make the improvements which this agency requires, until it was decided whether the agency
buildings are to remain here or be removed to the new location acquired by the supplementary
treaty. I hope this matter will be settled at an early day, as the buildings are many of them
in much need of repair.

Last year this tribe had but two hundred acres under cultivation; this year they have full
five hundred acres. Their corn crop is very heavy, and is now fit to gather. I think the
yield will be from ten to twelve thousand bushels besides their own crops ; they have a
large amount of squash and pumpkins. Turnips, beans, and peas have all been destroyed

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCE 187

them so for

by the grasshoppers ; no potatoes were planted this year ; the bugs have eaten
two years past that I thought it best not to try them this year.

We have now about one hundred and fifty tons of hay put up, and intend to put up fifty
tons more.

I have taken great pains to instruct the members of this tribe in the use of agricultural
implements ; to accomplish it I have had our farmers, together with the other employes, go
into the field with the Indians and instruct them separately until they were well versed in
their use ; the result of this is that we now have fifty Indians who are capable of going into
their field and doing their own ploughing. The demand for agricultural implements in this
tribe will be large next season, and I hope to be in a condition to supply them ; with proper
aid of this kind, this tribe will soon be able to support themselves from the products of their
own labor

The general health of this tribe has not been as good this year as it was last ; owing to
the great overflow of the Missouri river last spring, miasmatic fevers have prevailed to con-
siderable extent, and quite a number of deaths have occurred ; a physician has been much
needed here, and I understand one has lately been provided by the department.
I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. POTTER,
United States Indian Agent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

IDAHO SUPEKINTENDENCY.

No. 73.

BOISE CITY, I. T., March 1, 1866.

SIR : In compliance with instructions of circular of July 17, 1865, in reference to making
a full and explicj^ monthly report to your office of the condition of the tribes of Indians
under my charge, I have the honor to report as follows, viz : The Nez Perce agency I have
had no report from since my arrival. The condition of the roads has been such that little
or no communication could be had with that agency. I intend to send Mr. McCall to make
a thorough examination of that agency, and on his return will make a full and explicit re-
port of its condition.

Colonel Chapman, the agent for the Flatheads in Montana, (but in my superintendency, )
left here on the 16th of January, and expected to reach the agency on the 1st of February,
but the roads being in such a bad condition, he will not be able to reach there till the 15th
or 18th.

I have collected 115 Boise Shoshone Indians, and placed them under the charge of the
military at Fort Boise, for the present. Numerous raids have been made by the Renegade
Indians from northern Nevada and eastern Oregon on settlements in Owyhee county.
Hundreds of head of stock have been driven off and some men have been wounded.

The people are in a state of excitement over these raids. An expedition has been made
by Captain Walker, commanding Fort Boise, against these hostile Indians. I enclose you
his report in reference thereto. I am in hopes to be able to report more favorably upon the
condition of the Indians in southern Idaho in my next.
Very respectfullv, your obedient servant,

CALEB LYON, of Lyonsdale,
Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affairs.

Hon. D. M. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

HEADQUARTERS SUPERINTENDENT DISTRICT OF BOISE,

Fort Boise, I. T., March 1, 1866.

CAPTAIN : I have the honor to transmit the following report of the operations of the men
under my comand, who left this post on the 12th instant, to find and chastise the hostile
Indians in the Malheur and Owyhee counties. These Indians had become so bold, and
their thefts so numerous, as to alarm the people to such an extent that, feeling no security
for their stock across Snake river, it had all been driven to this side. Murders were also
committed, and a party of citizens who attempted to recover some of their stolen stock
were defeated and driven back.

I left this post February 12th, with Lieutenant Thomas F. Tobey, of the 14th infantry,
and thirty-four (34) enlisted men, and on the 14th crossed Snake river ; on the 15th was

188 IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCE.

joined by four (4) enlisted men from camp Lyons, I. T., with despatch from captain White,
stating that Lieutenant Pepoon, who had been ordered to join me, would be unable so to do,
as the Indians had made an attack, and committed murder twenty (20) miles from camp.
Reached the Malheur and followed it up about twenty-five (25) miles, then marched from
the river toward a canon, said to be occupied by Indians, found the canon deserted, but
evidences of its having been occupied during the winter.

On the 19th, proceeding again to the Malheur river, but found no fresh Indian signs ; the
next day, 20th, camped at the forks of the Malheur, the scene of Lieutenant Hobark's fight;
fresh signs of a small party, which soon disappeared.

On the 21st left Malheur and proceeded in the direction of the Owyhee river.

On the 23d, after marching easterly, toward Owyhee river seventeen miles, came upon an In-
dian village, about 4 p. in., on a dry creek, between Malheur and Owyhee rivers, killed eighteen
(18) Indians and wounded two, (2,) probably fatally, w.ho succeeded in escaping, with one
other, into a dense field of brush ; captured nineteen (19) horses and a few old rifles, some
ten or fifteen pounds powder, about twenty pound ball, bullet moulds, and also rasps and
files ; destroyed the lodges, with some 300 pounds jerked meat ; found in the lodges keys,
butter, yeast powder, citizen's clothing, &c., showing evidences of a raid upon the settle-
ments or an emigrant train. Also found a United States saddle blanket and a soldier's
blouse. Left about sundown and encamped some three (3) miles beyond.

I regret to report the loss of Corporal William Burke, company D, 2d battalion 14th
infantry, killed ; a brave man and a good soldier. Musician Vrooman, of the same company,
was wounded.

The Indians fought with desperation, asking no quarter. The men are now at camp
Lyon, refitting and recruiting their animals, preparatory to their return to this post. The
trip was extremely hard on the animals, the country being so rough and rocky.

I propose making another campaign in a few weeks, and think a few such lessons will
bring the red men to terms.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. H. WALKER,
Captain 14tli Infantry, Commanding.

A A. GENERAL, Department Columbia.

No. 72.

BOISE CITY, I. T.

August 31, 1866.

SIR : In accordance with your instructions of the 17th instant, I proceeded to the mouth
of the Bruneau river, where I found about one hundred and twenty-five of the Bruneau
band of Shoshones camped ; but it is proper for me to state that, after making diligent
inquiry, I tried some persons who professed to talk Shoshone, and ascertaining they could
only talk a few w r ords, and becoming satisfied that Mr. S. E. McCanless was the only per-
son hereabout who could talk Shoshone sufficiently to be of any use to me, I went by way
of Jennings's ranch, on Castle creek, and procured his services at $8 per day, -for himself
and horse, and only kept him three days, one day going to Bruneau, one day there, and one
day to return to Castle creek, forty-five miles. I found the Bruneaus very peaceably dis-
posed toward the wlrites, and they expressed themselves as being particularly anxious to be
settled on a reservation, and 1 learn, from settlers on Castle and Sinker creeks, that they are
very good to work in fields and at putting up hay ; indeed, I have never known Indians who
knew nothing of farming express so much anxiety for a farm and implements to work it
with. About four miles from the mouth of the Bruneau it opens out and forms a valley of
from eighteen to twenty miles in length, and the arable land on each side of the stream is
from one hundred yards to half a mile in width, and then runs off from half a mile to a
mile in sage-brush and plains, to the sage-brush barren hills. There are small willows
growing all along on each side of the stream, and about six miles from the lower end of the
valley I begun to find patches of willow trees, of half to a dozen in a place, and from a
quarter to half a mile apart, from the size of my arm to a foot in diameter. But they are
scarce and grow short and scrubby, but few, if any, being fit for building and fencing pur-
poses and not in sufficient quantity for fuel.

I learned from Colonel Sinclair and other officers, also from my interpreter, all of whom
had been over the country on scouting expeditions, that all of the arable land in the valley
of the Bruneau overflowed each year, and the present year most of it was submerged as late
as the first of July. I also learned from the same parties that there is plenty of fir timber
about sixty miles above the valley, in the mountains, on the Bruneau, but the river flows
through a canon where the banks are a perfect precipice of from twenty to forty feet in
height, for about forty miles, and but few places in all that distance, say about six miles, where

, 1 1 1 1 _ 1 1_ '-I'! 1 " i ' _ ^ A"U ~

he river is approachable in high water ; and in low water, as at present, it is not more than
ix inches to a foot in depth on the ripples, which are very numerous, as it is a swift stream ;

the

six i

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCE 189

it is also a very crooked stream, so I think that floating timber down it would be impracti
cable.

I also learned the facts of the overflow and about the canon and timber from the Indians,
and saw myself evidences of the late flooding of the arable land ; also saw where the river
comes out of the canon. There is a small ci'eek puts into the Bruneau from the west that
has considerable quantities of arable lands, I think probably two or three hundred acres,
but it is also subject to overflows, besides being narrow and having no timber, and at this
season of the yeai it is dry for at least ten miles from its mouth.

The arable lauds that I have spoken of are fine stock lands, producing abundance of luxu-
rious grass The military are now engaged in building a post at the mouth of the Bruneau,
and are hauling all the timber necessary from this place, a distance of ninety- five miles, as
the nearest and most feasible to get at.

There is timber about eight or ten miles from the head of Castle Creek valley, but it would
have to be hauled from forty-five to fifty miles to get it to the Bruneau valley. There^Ss a
valley on both forks of Castle creek of about the same length as the one on the Bruneau,
and containing about one-third to one-half as much arable lands. But I doubt very much if
there is sufficient water in either or both forks for irrigation, and the same trouble exists about
timber, except it would only have to be hauled from ten to twenty miles.

I am of the opinion, after a careful examination and inquiry, that neither the Bruneau nor
Castle creek are at all suitable for a reservation, and that better places can be found on the
Malad, Shoshone, or Payette ; at least it strikes me as desirable that those streams be ex-
amined above here before any steps are taken on the Bruneau.

The Bruneau band embraces about four hundred souls, and they are perfectly willing to
be removed wherever the government may deem best. Permit me to remark here that the
Boise and Karnrnas bands might also be removed without trouble to the Malad, or in the
neighborhood of Fort Hall on the Shoshone, and, with the Shoshones already in that section,
form a l&rge reservation and be much better managed, as well as be more economical than to
have small bands of the same tribe located on different reservations.

I made inquires of all the Bruneaus that I saw about the other Indians in southern Idaho.
They knew nothing of them, being more afraid of the Py-Utes and the few outlawed Ban-
nock and Bruneau Shoshones with them than even the whites are.

Major Marshall is now out towards Stevens's mountains with a detachment of United States
troops after them, and has thirteen Bruneau Indians as a pioneer corps and guides, and more
offered to go if their families were fed during their absence.

The Indians were extremely anxious to know of me (as indeed the Boise band has from
time to time) if the government were going to help them with blankets and provisions this
winter, as they asserted their hunting grounds were appropriated by the farmers, herders, and
miners, and if they went out to hunt they were liable to get killed, all of which I knew to
be a fact, but I told them I did not know. I had no authority to promise anything, and that
they must go to work and catch as many salmon (which have just commenced running) as
possible and dry them, and gather all the roots and seeds possible and cache them for winter.

The Bruneaus that I saw (and I learn they are all in the same situation) are the poorest
lot of Indians I ever saw. They have no furs or skins of any kind, a very little clothing,
and no blankets except a very few of the poorest and coarsest quality furnished them by Gov-
ernor Lyon last spring.

And from the fact that so many depredations have been committed on the whites by the
Py-Utes and outlawed Shoshones herein before mentioned, teamsters, packers, herders,
ranchers, and miners all over the country have become exasperated, and through fear, and in
some cases I fear from mere wantoness, shoot Indians at sight. As a consequence the Indians
do not roam over the country and hunt and trap so as to supply themselves with clothing and
food as they did previous to the settlement of the country by the whites.

As a consequence they are reduced to remaining in considerable parties, and that immedi
ate along the streams, and depending entirely on fishing for a living, and should the salmon
be scarce, (as there is every prospect they will be,) unless the government assist those Indians
with clothing, bedding, and provisions, they certainly must freeze and starve to death during
the coming winter.

The same will apply to a ctusiderable extent to the Boise band of Shoshones, who are also
in a very destitute condition, and I learn that the Kammas band is also in the same situation.
The Bruneau and Boise bands are so intermarried that they are in fact all one people and
are closely connected by blood, visiting each other as frequently as they dare to pass over
the country, or as often as they can get a pass from some one that they may show to such
whites as they may chance to meet in travelling.

I have the honor of herewith transmitting account of expenses of my trip.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. C. PIOUGH,
Special Indian Agent, Idaho Territory.
His Excellency D. W. BALLARD,

Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Idaho Territory.

190 IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 73.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, BOISE CITY, I. T., September 4, 1866.

Sui : I have the honor to submit my first annual report of the condition of the superin-
tendency of Idaho.

Arriving here on the 14th of June last, I found that my predecessor, ex-Governor Lyon,
of Ljonsdale, had left for San Francisco on the 21st of April preceding 1 . 1 regret his failure
to turn over to me the papers and funds belonging to the superinti-ndeney in the manner
contemplated by the department, as from this failure the interests of the supeiintondency have
materially .suffered and my position been rendered most embarrassing. Be:ngthus destitute
of funds, as well as papers that should be in this office, my principal means 'of obtaining in-
formation concerning the various tribes of the Idaho Indians has been by correspondence
wit]} parties who have travelled among them. From these considerations, as well as the
fact that I have so recently entered upon the duties of my office, I shall not be able to make
so full and complete a report as I could have desired, or, as would seem to be required of me,
in order that you might be fully advised of the condition and requirements of this superin-
teudency for the coming year.

The Territory of Idaho is situated between the 42d and 49th parallels of north latitude,
and the 110th and 117th west longitude, being triangular in shape, and embracing an area of
not less than 100,000 square miles. The surface of the country, for the most part, abounds
in dry and barren sage plains, rough and nigged mountains, interspersed with here and there
an occasional fertile valley and grassy mountain side. Hence, the natural resources for
Indian subsistence are very limited, being almost exclusively confined to roots, fish, and
crickets. A great portion of the country being thus uninhabitable by either whites or In-
dians, will serve as an explanation why the tribes of Idaho are divided into so many bands,
and why these bands have their locations so remote from tach other. The nomadic habits
of those living in the southern portion of our Territory, added to their remote distances from
each other, render it, very difficult to obtain reliable information concerning them.

Since entering upon the duties of my office I have availed myself of every reliable means
to obtain information in relation to those bands of Snakes or Shoshones inhabiting the
southeastern portion of Idaho, embracing Fort Hall and those regions of country traversed
by the headwaters of Snake river. The information I have obtained is imperfect and un-
satisfactory. Their estimated numbers, by individuals who have travelled in their country
and spent some time among them, is so various and conflicting that I do not consider myself
warranted in an attempt to even approximate their number. The reliable facts obtained
may be summed up as follows :

There are in the regions last indicated various roving bands, whose principal subsistence
is upon the fish obtained from Snake river and its tributaries, roots, and crickets. Some of
them are ostensibly on peaceable terms with the whites, but from the fact that scarcely a
year passes without depredations being committed upon the emigrants passing through their
country, I am inclined to the opinion that, on favorable opportunities for plunder, they are
treacherous and not to be trusted. The southwest portion of Idaho, including the Owyhee
country and the regions of the Malheur, are infested with a roving band of hostile Pi-Utes
and outlawed Shoshones, numbering, from the best information, some 300 warriors. These
Indians have been the source of much trouble to the white settlers, and will continue to be
until thoroughly subdued by the military. During the present summer they have massacred
no less than 100 Chinamen and a number of whites, besides driving off large quantities of
stock belonging to the packers, teamsters, and white settlers.

In addition to the Indians already mentioned, inhabiting the central and southern portion
of Idaho, may be included the Boise Shoshones and Bruneau Shoshones. The former,
consisting of a band numbering some 200 souls, have lived for some time past in the vicinity
of Boise city, and obtained a precarious subsistence by fishing, digging roots, gathering
crickets, and performing menial service for white settlers. Their fear of the hostile Pi-Utes,
and the fear of being mistaken for hostile Indians and killed by the whites, keeps them con-
fined principally to one locality. Their lodges, two miles above this city, are constructed of
bushes, and are totally unsuited to protect them from the cold of a rigorous winter. From
reasons already given, they have been afraid to visit their kamrnas grounds, as usual, dur-
ing the present summer. Their stock of roots, consequently, is quite meagre. Their sub-
sistence for the coming winter will depend principally upon the few salmon they may be
able to take from the Boise river. They are in the most destitute condition in regard to all
the necessaries of life, shelter, food, and clothing, and unless something shall be done by
the department for their relief, their situation during the coming winter will be a most
pitiable one.

The condition of the Bruneau Shoshones, a band of som 400 souls, living on the Bruneau
river, some one hundred miles distant from here, is very similar to the condition of the band
just described. The two bands speak a common language, and are on friendly terms with
each other, and have a mutual desire to be combined and located together on a reservation,
and to be instructed in the arts of civilized life. On my arrival here I was informed, unof-
ficially, that ex-Governor Lyon had entered into some sort of treaty with the Bruneau Sho-

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCY. 191

shones which contemplated the location of a reservation near the mouth of the Bruneau
river, though there is no evidence of such transaction in this office. I am informed from/
various sources that a reservation could not he judiciously located on the Bruneau. This
information is confirmed by the report of Special Agent George C. Hough, herewith trans-
mitted, and to which you are respectfully referred for a more detailed account of the Bruneau
band.

From the enfeebled condition of the tribal authority of the Indians of southern Idaho, it
is deemed inexpedient to attempt the formation of treaty stipulations with them. The policy
of entering into treaty with large and powerful tribes where they have an active and vigor-
ous tribal authority recognized among them, is doubtless a wise and judicious policy, but
even in such cases it is supposed that the treaty is designed more for effect upon the Indians
than to compel the government to do justice to them. Believing that the government does
not require the bonds of treaty regulations as an inducement to do justice to the weak and
scattered bands of southern Idaho, and further, believing that a treaty with one band would
have no effect upon another band, it is recommended as the most practical, humane, and
economical course to pursue, that the government proceed at once to locate on some suitable
situation in southern Idaho a reservation of proper dimensions, including, if possible, a good
fishery, kammas grounds, grazing grounds, tillable lands, timber, &c. The reservation
being located, the Boise and Bruneau Shoshones could at once be removed to it and put
under training, and as other bands should be subdued, they could be brought in and com-
bined with those already on the reservation. The government, in the mean time, recogniz-
ing, as a test of friendship on the part of the subdued bands, a willingness to settle and
remain on the reservation. A military force, sufficient to protect the Indians from bad white
men, would also be sufficient to retain the Indians in their bounds. Could this have been
done for the Boise and Bruneau Indians this year, and had they been furnished with the
usual assistance provided for other reservations, of farmer, blacksmith, farming implements,
&c., they would doubtless have been able, next yeajj to produce a liberal share of their own
support. It is further recommended that the department afford the Boise and Bruneau In-
dians some relief during the coming winter in the way of clothing and provisions ; and
should the suggestion to locate them on a reservation meet with favor, it is recommended
that the location be made and the Indians removed to it before winter, if possible.

The immense wealth of the Pacific coast has had the effect to people our shores with a vast
population in advance of the extinguishment of what is called "the Indian title." Idaho
is not an exception to other States and Territories west of the Rocky mountains, and ail the
unhappy consequences resulting from a promiscuous intermingling of whites with the In-
dians have been painfully experienced in our Territory. The mountains of Idaho, abound-
ing as they do in many rich deposits of precious metals, some of them, perhaps, the richest
known to the world, will still continue to invite an increasing population to our Territory.
These deposits of mineral wealth not being confined to any particular locality, but abound-
ing in both northern and southern Idaho, some of them almost fabulous in richness, will
continue to present in the future, as now, the most profitable fields of labor for the active
and industrious miner and tradesman, and as profitable investments for the capitalist as can
be found in any other part of our Union. Hence, we may reesonably calculate the already
unhappy condition of affairs will but increase in an equal ratio with the increase of the white
population until all the Indians of our Territory are separated from the whites and taken
under the fostering care of the government.

The Indians of southern Idaho are fast fading away, and as we occupy their root grounds,
converting them into fields and pastures, we must either protect them or leave them to the
destroying elements now surrounding them, the result of which cannot be doubtful. A
humane magrranimity dictates their protection and speedy separation from those evils to
which they are exposed by intermingling with white men.

Prominent among the tribes of northern Idaho stand the Nez-Perce"s, a majority of whom
boast that they have ever been the faithful friend of the white man. But few over half of
the entire tribes of the Nez-Perces are under treaty. The fidelity of those under treaty,
even under the most discouraging circumstances, must commend itself to the favorable con-
sideration of the department. The influx of the white population into their country _has
subjected them to all the evils arising from an association with bad white men, and as might
well be expected, the* effect upon the Indians has been most unhappy. The non-payment of
their annuities has had its natural effect upon the minds of some of those under treaty ; but
their confiding head chief (Lawyer) remains unmoved, and on all occasions is found the
faithful apologist for any failure of the government. Could this tribe have been kept aloof
from the contaminating vices of bad white men, and had it been in the power of the govern-
ment promptly to comply with the stipulations of the treaty of 1855, there can be no doubt
but that their condition at this time would have been a most prosperous one, and that the
whole of the Nez-Perce"s nation w r ould by this time have been willing to come under treaty
and settle on the reservation with those already there. Our remote distance from Washing-
ton, the great length of time required for the passage of communications to and from the
department, in connection with the unsettled condition of the country, are doubtless good
reasons why the payment of their annuities has been delayed. But could the annuities now-
due them be promptly paid, and the new treaty stipulations be promptly met, it would have
a fine effect, not only upon those under treaty, but also upon those who are still opposed to

192 IDAHO SUPERINTENDED Y.

a settlement on the reservation. I regret my inability to lay before you, from my own
knowledge, a definite statement of the condition of the remaining tribes of northern Idaho.
In accordance with instructions received at this office from the department, dated June 13,
1866, I opened a correspondence with Superintendent Waterman, of Washington Territory,
and the governor of Montana, touching the practicability of collecting the tribes in the
northeast of Washington Territory and northern Idaho on the Flathead reservation. A copy
of their several replies is herewith transmitted. Confiding in the judgment and integrity of
Agent O'Neill, of the Nez-Perces agency, I also corresponded with him on the same subject
soon after, and through him ascertained the following facts : That on the 5th ultimo he, in
company with Mr. Whitman, attended by an Indian guide, set out from Lewistown (a vil-
lage some ten miles from the Nez-Perces agency) on a tour of investigation through the
tribes of northern Idaho. He gives it as his opinion that it would be unwise to attempt to
locate either the Spokanes or the Coeur d'Alenes upon the Flathead reservation ; that neither
band could agree with the Flatheads. Spokane Gary, referred to in Agent Chapman's letter,
is not understood to be the acknowledged chief of the tribe. He is so considered by the
whites on account of his ability to talk English and read a little, but is not the equal of his
brother in power and influence over the tribe. The distance from the Coeur d'Alene country
to the Flatheads is 170 miles ; from the Spokanes to the Flatheads, 220 miles. These In-
dians would not be willing to remove from their own country and unite with the Flatheads.
There is in the bounds of their own country, at the head of the Latch or Hangman's creek,
a fine location for a reservation, on which might be collected all the tribes of northern Idaho,
including the Spokanes, Pend d'Oreilles, Coeur d' Alines, and Kootenays. The location
referred to is a beautiful valley some twenty miles in length, and comprises in that length
fine farming lands, kammas grounds, grazing grounds, good location for saw-mill, with fine
quality of timber adjoining, and is accessible from Lewistown and other points below, from
Snake river, by good wagon roads. The combined number of the Coeur d'Aleues and
Spokanes amounts to from seven hundred to eight hundred souls. Father Misplie, a Catholic
priest, who has spent many years among the Indians of northern Idaho, informs me that the
Pend d'Oreilles and Kootenays together number about eighteen hundred souls.
Very respectfully, vour obedient servant,

DAVID W. BALLARD,

Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Idaho Territory.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 74.

OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Olympia, Washington Territory, July 27, 1866.

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of July 12, referring to
the correspondence of Agent Chapman with reference to the removal of certain tribes of
Indians and consolidating them with the Flatheads on their reservation.

I have communicated a copy of the letter of Mr. Chapman, transmitted to this office by the
Commissioner of Indian Affairs, to the agent now in charge of the Colville and Spokane
Indians, Mr. George A. Paige, and have requested a report from him on the subject. Mr.
Paige will in due time ascertain the minds of the Indians in question and will report it with
all the facts bearing on the question.

This office will then correspond with the department and report its views on the subject.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. H. WATERMAN,

Superintendent Indian Affairs, Washington Territory.
His Excellency D. W. BALLARB,

Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affairs for Idaho.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, TERRITORY OF MONTANA,

Virginia City. August 7, 1866.

SlR : In answer to your communication of the 12th ultimo, I am instructed to say that
Acting Governor Meagher has written to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs "that it is not
advisable to transfer tlie Indians in question to the Flathead reservation, and that he con-
siders Colonel Chapman has quite enough on his hands to take charge of those he has already."
He would write to you himself were it not for his having to start immediately for the Flat-
head agency.

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

A. H. BARRET,

Montana Territory
His Excellency D. W. BALLARD,

Governor, $fc., Idaho Territory.

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCE". 193

No. 75.

OFFICE NEZ PERCES INDIAN AGENCY,

Lapwai, July 20, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor herewith to transmit my annual report for the year ending June 30,
1866. Since my last report I can confidently say there has been a vast improvement in the
farms and farming operations of these Indians ; their farms have been enlarged and more at-
tention is paid to fencing than formerly. Throughout the nation there has been an increase
of about seven hundred acres more put in cultivation, with a corresponding increase in crops.
Last year some few of the Indians had considerable flour to sell, which they disposed of in
the mining towns. This season there will probably be twenty thousand pounds of flour sold
by them. Their sale of potatoes, green corn, squashes, melons, tomatoes, &c., in the different
mining camps, in the course of the season, amounts to a large sum. Their crops of wheat
will be fully one-third larger this season than ever before.

Some few of them who have COW T S sell milk to miners and others. Ha-harts-tuesta, or
Captain Billy, the chief on Salmon river, being the largest owner of cattle, having some
five hundred head, during the winter season supplies the miners in his neighborhood with
beef, killing regularly once a week and disposing of it at the rate of five pounds for a dollar ;
but with all these improvements in farms and farming I am sorry to say the young men of
the nation have but little to do with it ; the chiefs, as a general thing work pretty well, the
women however doing the most of the farming work ; the young men thinking it a disgrace
to work, and their chiefs not telling them to the contrary.

The increase of whiskey drinking and drunkenness among the young men is alarming. To
try to punish the miserable whiskey sellers is a farce. We have no United States commis-
sioners upon the reservation, nor have we had for over a year, and no United States district
judge nearer than Walla Walla, Washington Territory, ninety-five miles distant from the
agency. For the last year we have had stationed at Fort Lapwai a company of infantry
with no riding animals or saddles. It has been useless to undertake to arrest the whiskey
sellers who were any distance from the agency or fort. Captain Waters, commanding the
post, was willing to do all he could to assist me, but with the means at his disposal it was
only at points near the two places.

The order for the mustering out of all volunteers leaves the post vacant. I fear trouble ;
not from the Indians if sober, but from the sale of whiskey to them. The presence of soldiers
upon the reservation had a good effect, and until the post is again re-garrisoned deviltry of
all sorts will go on unrestrained.

Complaint was made to me last week of the robbing of a pack train, on Gammas prairie, of
three ten gallon kegs of whiskey by Indians, and, again, near Pearce City, of some four or
five Indians entering a miner's cabin, and with pistols drawn compelling the occupants to
furnish them whiskey.

It is a common occurrence for some of the worst of the young men to stop Chinamen where-
ever they meet them, and compel them to give them gold dust, clothing, &c. In the towns of
Lewiston, Oro Fino, and Pearce City, the inhabitants are becoming alarmed and public
meetings have been held. By request of the citizens I attended one of their meetings in
Lewiston last week, and told them that if they would try and stop the selling of whiskey to
suspicious whites and take care of them I would try to look out for the Indians.

William Davidson, the sheriff of Shoshone county, (upon the reservation,) informed me
Saturday of his having two Salmon river Indians in jail in Oro Fino for entering a miner's
cabin and pointing their pistols at the miners, compelled them to give them liquor. He
says the Indians are getting very bold, and tell the miners that I have no soldiers to send
after them, and they intend to do as they please for a little while. He wanted to know what
they should do. I told him that before proceeding to extremities, should such things occur
again, to send an express to me, when I would go up with the interpreter and see what
could be done.

Oro Fino is on the reservation, about ninety miles from the agency.

I hope we shall soon have a company of cavalry here, or I fear we shall have the same
troubles you are experiencing in the Owyhee country.

With the three or four thousand whites and Chinamen mining within the bounds of the
reservation, and the same number of Indians, who consider these miners as interlopers, who
are taking their farms and their gold from them, unless we have soldiers there is bound to
be collision between them.

Last November Red Heart, Eagle from the Light, and White Bird, came in on
the reservation from Montana Territory, where they have been since the treaty council of
J 863. They are the leading chiefs on the nontreaty side. In March last Eagle from the
Light made a visit to this office, the first ever made by him. He came asking for assist-
ance to remove some whiskey sellers in his country, eighty miles distant from the agency.
I felt anxious to grant him assistance, as up to this time they had never acknowledged an
agent here ; but owing to the fact of there being no riding animals or saddles at the fort
was unable to do so. Somewhat later in the spring I heard that these same people again
contemplated returning to Montana. I sent them word that thev must not leave their homes ;
13 c I

194 IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCY.

that they were Nez Perec's, and this was their country ; that if they went there again their
young men might get mixed up with the raids of the Blackfeet and would bring their chiefs
in trouble. In June I had a visit from Red Heart, with some fifty of his warriors. Red
Heart is the acknowledged head chief of the non-treaty bands represented by the sub- chiefs
Eagle from, the Light, White Bird, Quil-quil-she-ne-ne, Joseph Big-Thunder, Te-cool-cool-
hoot-soot, and some smaller chiefs ; they number altogether about one thousand souls.

It was the first visit ever made to the agency, since it was established, by Red Heart.
At the time of the treaty council, in 1863, he was, with his people, with the Crows. They
made a beautiful display as they came towards the agency. Red Heart and his wife riding
ahead, after them one of their medicine men the one who acted as leader a captain, fol-
lowed by the warriors riding some ten or twelve abreast, with drums- beating, muskets firing,
and singing. Their horses were beautifully caparisoned; that of Red Heart having the
skin of the head of a buffalo, with horns attached, fitting very nicely the head of his horse.
They were on their way to the "Tot-Whinna" camp ground, some twenty-five miles north
of us.

The old fellow did not seem disposed to say much, merely expressing a desire that Mr.
Whitman, the interpreter, and myself would accompany them to Lewiston, as the citizens
might not know what the turnout meant. On our arrival in Lewistou I told them they had
better cross the river and camp. I gave them a sack of flour and some beef. In about a
week they returned ; Red Heart, and some four or five of his leading men only, stopping at
the agency for a talk ; he said he had seen us for the first time and it might be for the last,
as hd was getting old and might never see us again ; he was much pleased with his recep-
tion ; that in the early spring, when they were talking of again going to Montana, it was
not with any evil intent ; he did not want the whites to think him unfriendly, but that it
was on account of the trouble and distraction among their own people ; they, the chiefs, did
not all think alike. I told him I did not think it right for him, Eagle from the Light, and
White Bird to be living in the mountains ; their reservation was large enough to give them
all farms and grazing for their animals ; that he ought to tell his young men to go to farm-
ing, to put, in crops, and live like the rest of their own people ; that probably soon you
would, if you had time, see all of their people and tell them what was for their good, and
show them how to get along with each other. I think his visit will be productive of good
among his people.

One great cause of the disagreement and split among this people is the non-payment of
their annuities. The non-treaty side throw it up to the other side that now they have sold
their country and have got nothing but promises which are being received from year to year,
that their annuities will never be here. They use it too with such good effect that every day
their side is increasing in strength. Many of the young men, and some of the old ones of
the Lawyer side, say it is true, and that they had rather be with the non-treaty side and not
expect anything than to remain with the Lawyer side and have, every few days, these prom-
ises repeated to them. Too much praise cannot be awarded Lawyer, the head chief of the
nation, for his endeavors to keep peace between his people and the whites, and to account
to them for the want of good faith on the part of the government. They have due them,
since the Indian war of 1855 and 1856, $4,665 for horses furnished the government. Many
of their warriors in that war gave our troops their personal services without charge. There
is also due some of their people $1,185 50 for work done on the stone church. They were
promised their pay as soon as the walls were completed. There are four instalments of
$>1 0,000 each of annuities due them.

Lawyer's salary as head chief is not paid promptly. There is now due him the fourth
quarter of 1863 and first and second quarters of 1864 ; the third and fourth quarters of 1865
were not paid until December, 1865, owing to the absence from the Territory of our super-
intendent of Indian affairs ; there is now nearly one month of the third quarter of 1866 gone
and he has received no pay for the first and second quarters of 1866. I know that to pro-
cure the common necessaries of life his pay for the first quarter of 1865 (he being compelled
to dispose of his vouchers when legal tenders were worth only forty -five cents and fifty cents)
did not net him but about $50, his pay being $125 per quarter ; yet, with all these things
staring him in the face, his faith in the government is as strong as ever, and not him
alone, but such chiefs as Ute-sin-male-e cum, Spotted Eagle, Captain John, Three
Feathers, We-as-cus, Whis-tas-ket, Wep-ta-ta-mand and others. It is up-hill work for
an agent to manage his Indians well when he refers them to certain treaty stipulations
reserved as their part, when they can retort by saying that but few of the stipulations
on the part of the government are kept. In March last Governor Lyon sent word to this
people that he would be here in June to hold a Council with them, and would at the same
time have a payment of annuities made them. The non-arrival of the goods has disap-
pointed many of them.

Not being regularly supplied with funds for the current expenses of the agency occasions
us much difficulty ; the employes become much dissatisfied and disheartened, and it also
makes a vast difference in the economical management of affairs ; during this year, now
commencing the third quarter, I have had no funds at my disposal. Our grist-mill needs
repairs before the grinding of the new crop commences, which it will be impossible to do,
owing to some of the materials required, which cannot be purchased on credit. As far as

IDAHO SUPERINTENDENCE 195

possible, with the means at hand, the work at the agency has gone on well. More lumber
than ever has been sawed in the same length of time ; our fences and buildings have been
improved ; we have now, under a good substantial four-board-high fence, eighty acres of
laud ; in the repair of our fences this spring, over 10,000 feet of lumber was used.

An addition to the house occupied by myself, 18x24 feet, containing dining-room and
kitchen for employe's, with cellar underneath, has been built; a building 12x24 feet, for
lodging places for Indians coming to the mill; a good strong bridge across the Lapwai,
above the mills, one hundred feet in length by twelve feet wide, the main span forty feet
long, twelve feet above the bed of the creek, using in the construction of it three thousand
feet sawed lumber for flooring, and four hundred feet hewn timber for frame work, part of
that procured for roof of stone church. The dwellings of the employe's have also all been
comfortably improved. There will also be used, in the erection of a graineryand corn-crib,
now under way, three thousand feet of lumber. I would, should we receive funds soon
enough, like to put up a barn and sheds, and another building for an office, and convert the
present office into a dwelling, it being entirely unsuited for office purposes.

One log and one frame house have been erected for the Indian chiefs We-as-cus and
Sim-sle-poos, opposite Lewiston; another one is partly finished. It is difficult to make
them understand that to have houses erected for them they must furnish the logs, which will
be sawed at the mill, when the carpenter will build their houses for them ; they seem to think
that materials of all kinds must be furnished them.

Accompanying this you will see report of superintendent of farming, miller, sawyer, car-
penter, wagon and plough makers, and blacksmith, also statistics of farming. You will also
find copies of letters forwarded to Commissioner Dole last October, which will explain why
no statistics of education are forwarded. There has been no census of the tribe taken since
last year; the whole number of souls is, as given in statistics of education in last annual
report males, 1,200; females, 1,630; total, 2,830; with individual property, on the 1st of
July, 1866, of about fifteen thousand dollars.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES O'NEILL,
United States Indian Agent, I. T.

His Excellency D. W. BALLARD,

Got. Sf Supt. of Ind. Affairs, Boise City, Idaho.

No. 76.

NEZ PEROES INDIAN AGENCY,

June 30, 1866.

DEAR SIR : I have the honor herewith to submit a brief report of the farming operations
at this agency, and among the Indians, during the. past fiscal year:

The year 1865 was, owing to severe drought, ravages by crickets, and our inefficient
fences, very unfavorable ; prospects, however, seem much brighter for the present year. We
were able in the spring to procure lumber enough to so improve our fences as to render our
crops entirely secure from cattle and horses. We used in fencing, say^one hundred posts
and something over ten thousand feet of boards.

Anticipating in the spring the usual drought, we ploughed in nearly all our crops, nearly
eighty acres; this seems generally to have had a very good result. The season so far has
been very favorable ; there was an abundance of rain during the spring, and however dry
the weather may be hereafter, I think most of the crops will mature without irrigation. The
crickets seem very plentiful now, but there is so much green herbage everywhere for them
they will probably not do near the damage to crops they would otherwise. We shall probably
raise from twenty-five to one hundred per cent, more from the same land than we did last
year. The Indians throughout the reservation will probably raise at least twenty per cent,
more grain than usual.

As our fences are now thoroughly improved, we have on this agency farm but one great
want remaining a barn, which I trust you will succeed in building during the last of this, or
first of next year.

Our cattle, though exposed to all the severity of the weather, and with little to eat but
grass in the open range, with one or two exceptions, came through the winter in moderate
condition. The oxen rendered average service in the working season, and there was a fair
increase from the cows.

We succeeded during the high water in saving wood sufficient, I think, for the whole
agency.

Very respectfully, yours,

A. THATCHER,
Superintendent of Farming.

J. O'NEILL,

United States Indian Agent.

196 MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY.

MONTANA. SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 77.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, TERRITORY OF MONTANA,

Virginia City, December 14, 1865.

SIR : I have the honor to inform you that I returned here the afternoon of the 9th instant
from Fort Benton, whither I had gone to assist Major Upson in his negotiation of a treaty
with the Indians of the Blackfeet nation, which treaty he had, as special commissioner for
that purpose, been instructed and authorized to make.

The instructions given in this instance to Major Upson left him at liberty to associate the
ex-officio superintendent of Indian affairs in this Territory in the negotiation of the treaty,
as the convenience of that officer, in view of the distance he would have to travel to Fort
Benton from the executive residence of the Territory, might dictate.

Governor Edgerton, in committing to me the charge of the Territory on his departure for
the United States, having expressed a desire that I should attend the treaty council, it was
with much pleasure I undertook the journey and took part in the negotiation.

Major Upson having already forwarded to the office of Indian Affairs a report of the pro-
ceedings at Fort Benton, together with a copy of the treaty concluded there with the Black-
feet nation, it appears to me I have in this communication little more to do than give a
summary of those proceedings, and submit to your consideration the two or three sugges-
tions which have occurred to me in connection with them.

Indeed, the outline of these proceedings given in one of our local papers w r hich outline I
have the honor to enclose renders it almost superfluous on my part to do more than respect-
fully direct your attention to it; this outline being quite correct as far as it goes, and suf-
ficiently explicit for the proper understanding of the main features of the treaty, and the
spirit in which it was accepted.

The Blackfeet nation was fully represented on the occasion, although the Blackfeet tribe
appeared in the person of one chief only, and all the hostile Bloods were absent. These two
tribes retired some time ago beyond our line into the British possessions, and have been
living there ever since.

It strikes me forcibly that Indian tribes who voluntarily abandon their lands, seeking
shelter and protection in a foreign country, cease to be essential parties to any treaty which
the United States previous to their emigration might have held it necessary to conclude
with them.

So far beyond our line have the Blackfeet thrown themselves, it was found impracticable
to bring them in to the treaty council at Fort Benton, the messengers despatched to them for
that purpose by Major Upson having been forcibly halted by the Kootenay Indians, within
the British possessions, and compelled to return to the fort without having even seen ihe
Blackfeet, who were reported by the Kootenays to be away back towards the Frazer river.

The hostile Bloods having murdered eleven whites on the Marias river, last spring, where
they were peacefully employed cutting hay for the fort, have not been seen nor heard of this
side of the British line since that massacre took place.

The Piegans and Gros Ventres were on the ground in full force, and with the friendly
Bloods, who camp and hunt with the Piegans, displayed an encampment on the Teton and
Missouri of over a thousand lodges.

These Indians appeared to me the most peaceably disposed, and their chiefs, with an intel-
ligent readiness, assented to the stipulations of the treaty and subscribed their names to the
instrument.

Nevertheless, I am satisfied they will continue more or less vexatiously to annoy the whites
by stealing horses belonging to the latter, &c. Horse-stealing is accounted rather an heroic
exploit by the best of these Indians, and the habit has become so inveterate with them that
until some of the thieves are severely punished I much fear it will not be relinquished.

Wisely anticipating the necessity that must, in the course of a few months, dictate a treaty
with the Crows for the cession of their lands extending as these lands do from the south
bank of the Missouri to the eastern and southern boundaries of our Territory Major Upson,
with my full concurrence, despatched messengers to the Yellowstone to bring in these Indians,
with the view of obtaining their consent to a treaty similar to that submitted to the Black-
feet nation.

Their horses giving out after six or seven days' hard riding, these messengers had to return
without the Crows, although the latter were encamped not much over half a day's rid.e from
the point at which the former had to turn back to the fort. Of this fact, how r ever, the mes-
sengers were not made aware until one of them reached Helena, three weeks -after, when the
captain of an expedition that had been exploring a wagon route to the mouth of the Mussel-
shell informed him of it.

That it is more than expedient such a treaty with the Crows shall be made as speedily as
possible, must be conceded, in view of the urgent fact that hundreds of miners and others
desirous of locating farms and laying out towns, are, even now, passing down into the great

MONTANA ' SUPERINTENDENT. 197

valley of the Yellowstone, and into the country beyond the junction of the Gallatin with
the Missouri.

As for the Sioux and their allies and accomplices, it is my clear and positive conviction that
they will never be reduced to friendly and reliable relations with the whites but by the strong
and crushing hand of the military power of the nation.

I have, in my communication to the Secretary of State, taken the liberty of expressing
this conviction, and on the strength of it have requested him to obtain from the War Depart-
ment a competent cavalry force for this Territory. I trust that you will see fit to approve
of this application, which I have urged in my two-fold capacity as acting governor and
superintendent of Indian affairs, and that in the proper quarter you will give it your earnest
support.

The communication from your office of the 26th of September last, notifying Governor
Edgerton that Major Hutchins, agent for the Flatheads, had been relieved, and that Mr.
Augustus H. Chapman had been appointed in his stead, was forwarded to Major Hutchins
on the 4th of this month.

I had intended to visit the Flathead agency on my return from Fort Benton, but the same
communication having informed me that this agency had been transferred to Idaho, I relin-
quished the intention of doing so. But as the agency is several miles nearer the capital of
Montana than the capital of Idaho, and accessible from the former by an excellent road,
involving an easy journey on horseback of six days at most, I respectfully suggest that the
transfer referred to be revoked.

Following up this suggestion, I consider it my duty to the department to advise the
appointment of a special superintendent for this Territory. Separated from one another as
the Indian agencies are in Montana, by one, two, and three hundred miles and more, it is
impossible for the governor or acting governor to acquit himself in an efficient and satis-
factory manner of the duties pertaining to the superintendency as well as those pertaining
to the governorship, at one and the same time. * * *

I have the honor to be, most faithfully, your obedient servant,

THOMAS FRANCIS MEAGHER,
Secretary and Acting Governor, Territory of Montana.

Hon. THE COMMISSIONER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,

Department of the Interior, Washington.

No. 77*.

WASHINGTON, April 6, 1866.

SIR : In reply to your communication of April 5, desiring such items of the correspondence
of the late Gad E. Upson, in relation to Indian affairs at his agency, as will throw light upon
those matters, and especially in regard to the Blackfeet treaty, I desire to say that I have
received from him but one letter since the treaty referred to was made, and all the extracts
of importance in regard to the said treaty, and the other matters of which you inquire, are
herewith transmitted to you said letter dated January 1, 1866. Extracts from two letters
to him by his chief clerk at the agency, Hiram D. Upham, dated respectively January 9,
1866, and February 2, which I have received since, are also herewith transmitted. None of
the papers or vouchers referred to by my brother in his letter since the treaty, with the papers
signed by him, accompanying the same, have as yet been received by me.

I received the news of his death from my nephew, L. A. Upson, by telegram, dated Sacra-
mento, California, March 29, 1866, saying that he died about fiye in the afternoon of the day
previous. He had been lying there sick about one month previous to his death.
Very respectfully.

CHARLES UPSON.
Hon. D. N COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

BENTON CITY, February 2, 1866.

DEAR SIR : As an express leaves here to-day for the mines, I take the opportunity of
sending a few lines in regard to matters on the "bottom." Nothing of importance ^ has
transpired since my last letter was written. .The Gros Ventres took two hundred and sixty
head of horses from the Piegans a few nights since. The Piegans are making preparations
to go to war with them on a big scale. Big Lake's camp is within ten or twelve miles of
here on the Teton. The white men on the bottom have lately organized themselves into a
kind of vigilance committee for self-protection against both Indians and whites. All war
parties have heretofore made it a practice to stop here on their way to and from the enemy s
camp. They have always been welcomed by their French and half-breed brothers-in-law,

198 MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY.

who live here. One object of our organization is to prevent their coming here at all. Gough
Steel and Henry Kennedy are both officers in the company. About a week since, a party of
fifteen Piegan warriors came in here from the Pend d'Orielle's camp, with horses. As soon &s
they arrived on the bottom, we informed them that they could pass on to camp and not stop
here, as no more warriors could be allowed to sleep here. They complied with the request.
Day before yesterday, I was honored with a call from three chiefs, who came in to see what
was the matter with the whites. I told them that by their treaty they were to remain at
peace with other tribes, &c. ; if, however, they were bound to keep at war, or if they could
not keep their young men from going, they must keep their warriors away from here.
Trading parties were expected to come here whenever they pleased ; warriors were not.
They then said that you made some chiefs at the late treaty who had no influence, &c. I
told them that all their chiefs were picked out by them, and if any bad choices were made,
it was their own fault.

I will give you an instance of the impudence of these warriors : George Steel had a fine
horse, which he was very careful of, and kept up in his stable. Yesterday afternoon, in
broad daylight, the stable door was left open by Joe Kipp for a few minutes ; and while Joe
was out for something, an Indian went in and took the horse out, and jumping on, was soon
in camp, horse and all. George bought the horse of the same Indian about a month ago,
and paid him a big price. He was a son of the Heavy Runner.

# **#*****#

Respectfully yours,

H. D. UPHAM.
Major G. E. UPSON.

BENTON CITY, January 9, 1866.

PEAR SIR : As Mr. Berkins and Edward Beedle leave here in the morning for Helena, I
take the opportunity of winting you. I will commence on the Indian question. The Gros
Ventres are camped on Milk river, and are, I think, inclined to keep their treaty stipulations
with the whites. I have this day returned from their camp, where I went in search of two
white men, under the following circumstances.

About the first of December last Hunicke and Legree, in company with two Gros Ventres
Indian boys, went to the Gros Ventres camp after horses. After getting the horse, they
started back, coming through the Bear's Paw mountain. Two squaws and two Indians
(Gros Ventres coming to the fort) were added to the party on their return trip.

After one day's travel it began to snow, and Hunicke told one of the Indians to go back
to camp and get some sugar, while he (Hunicke) and party would go on a little further and
build a cabin, where they would remain until the storm was over. The Indian, (who was
Hunicke's brother-in-law, Walannee,) accordingly returned to the Gros Ventres camp, where ,'
on account of the severity of the storm, he was compelled to remain eight days. He then
started on the trip back, and supposing that Hunicke and Legree and party had come on
to the fort, he came by way of the wagon road. On his arrival here without the balance of
the party, he was sent back in search of them. He went as far as he dared, and then turned
back on account of the Piegans, who are fairly swarming in that section in search of Gros
Ventres' horses and scalps.

It had now got to be New Years, and no tidings from Hunicke and party. An attempt
was made to raise a party of whites to go in search, which resulted in nine men coming
forward, two of whom afterwards " weakened," leaving seven. The party consisted of
Bill Hamilton, Henry Kennedy, Joe Kipp, Mose Solomon, John the Tailor, another white
man and myself. Not a Frenchman would go or lend us a horse. After much difficulty we
succeeded in obtaining some horses, or rather scarecrows, and on the 3d of this month, with
the above-mentioned Indian as a guide, we started directly for the Gros Ventres camp, where
we expected to find some tidings. We arrived on the 3d day in Furnasse's camp of thirty
lodges, but learned that nothing had been heard from the missing party. But we here
ascertained that while Hunicke and party were in the Gros Ventres camp, a party of Piegans
were down the river stealing Crow and Gros Ventres' horses. That the party was headed
by one called the Eagle Rib, who was made a chief at the late treaty. That the Crows
and Gros Ventres killed nine of them, and that the balance started for home, and took the
same route that Huuicke and Legree did the day after they left the camp. Also that a couple
of young Gros Ventres warriors, who had, followed the Piegans, had just returned to camp
and reported that over near the Sweet Grass hills they had found a horse shot that belonged
to Legree.

We desired to go through the Bear's Paw on our return, but our horses were entirely
given out, and the Indians did not care to go for us, although they pr/omised to. We came
back, and when we arrived at the Marias we learned from some trappers that the Piegans
and party had passed there with the same number of horses that Hunicke and Legree had
with them. There is no doubt but what Hunicke, Legree and party, were killed by the
Piegans. About a month since a war party of Bloods came across the river here, with some
horses from the Yellow. Stone country. One of them had a purse of gold which he traded to a

MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY. 199

halt-breed here for a blanket. From here they went to the Piegan camp and sent word back
from there that they had killed three white men on the Yellowstone.

They had another large purse of gold in camp, also a white man's revolver, &c. These
things were seen by the halfbreed Gandapee, who has been in the Piegan camp. The
Piegans are getting so that they pay no respect to their treaty stipulations, either as regards
the whites or other Indians. For two weeks after you left, there was not a day but that
war parties of Piegans were passing here on their way to and from the Pend d Oreille camp.
While we were in the Gros Ventres camp, the other day, a party of fifty-two Piegans,
headed by Little Dog's son, were in the vicinity waiting for a chance to "raise "some
horses. We whites were called to a council of chiefs in the Gros Ventres camp, when the
Many Bear and other chiefs, after smoking in silence for an hour or two, said: "Why do
the whites sit still and let the Piegans and Bloods steal their horses and kill them like dogs."
"They" (the whites) "keep telling us to keep still, keep still, keep still, and we have kept
still until the Piegans have stolen all our horses and killed many of our warriors, and now
that they have killed the best two friends we had among the whites, Hunicke and Legree,
we have stopped keeping still, ?nd now it shall be war to the death." Such was their speech.

They feel very bad about Legree and Hunicke, who you know both had Gros Ventres
women. The Gros Ventres and Crows are camped near together.

You are probably aware that the Piegans killed Michelle Ogden's herder, a half-breed, and
took all his horses. The party who did it were not young warriors, but old men and hea>is
of families. Things have got so here that even the travellers at this point are taking measures
to protect themselves and property.

We are now organizing a vigilance committee here among the whites. Nearly all the
horses on the bottom are in the Piegan camp, which is about fifty miles from here on the
Marias. The North Bloods are moving this way. I have written the governor a statement
of the facts as above narrated. I am afraid but little freighting will be done here next
spring, without these gentlemen are whipped during the winter.

Bill Berkins has an order for the howitzer from the governor, and will take it with him
to-day. John Healy goes from here to-day to Sun river, with United States Marshal
Edward Beedle, for the purpose of obtaining possession of the farm. *

Please let me know what boat the goods are shipped on in the spring. * * * *
Yours, truly,

H. D. UPHAM.

Major GAD E. UPSON.

No. 78.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, TERRITORY OF MONTANA,

Virginia City, April 20, 1866.

SIR: You are no doubt apprised before this of the death of Major Gad E. Upson, late
Indian agent for the Blackfeet nation at Fort Benton.

He died at San Francisco, about six weeks ago, on his way to Washington with the treaty
he had so intelligently and zealously concluded with those Indians last November. * * *

In this connection, I consider it my duty to call your attention to the fact that there are
scattered along our southern line two tribes of Indians the Shoshones (or Snakes) and
Bannacks who have never, as I have been told and believe, been recognized by the gov-
ernment, and who are, poor creatures, in a truly wretched and desolate condition.

At the moment I write, there are eleven lodges belonging to them standing close to the
town, and they contain as much misery and filth and dire want as might be exceeded only
by the huts of the Terra del Fuegans.

The most earnest representations have been made to me in their behalf by some of the old
mountaineers and settlers of the neighborhood. Among these Mr. Nathaniel T. Hall, the
writer of the communication I enclose, has been the most intelligent, best informed, and
persistent.

I respectfully refer you to his communication, and recommend him to be appointed agent
of the Shoshones (or Snakes) and Bannacks, should it appear expedient to the department
to have such an agency created ; and, furthermore, I respectfully beg that the views set forth
in paragraph four of his communication may be acted upon, should this agency be estab-
lished, and instructions and powers accordingly be given to the agent.

Unrecognized, unprotected, and outlawed, as it were, as they now are, they are indeed a
revolting reproach to our civilization.

In a former communication I informed you I had notified Mr. Chapman, agent for the
Flatheads, that his agency had been retransferred from the Idaho to the Montana superin-
tendency. Up to this date, however, I have not heard from him ; but this no doubt is owing
to the depth of snow upon the mountains and the almost insurmountable obstructions on the
roads between here and Jocko, the residence of the agent.

The Piegans, to whom Major Upson distributed pistols and ammunition last November,
among other annuities, and who on the Indian side were the principal parties to the treaty

200 MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY.

negotiated with the Blackfeet nation at that time, continue to behave in a very unruly and
outrageous manner. No later than the 5th of this month a band of these Indians attacked
a small party of our people, who were inoffensively engaged in opening and constructing a
new road from this place and Helena to the Missouri, four hundred miles below Fort Ben-
ton, and, having driven off the latter, killed their oxen, burned their wagon, and captured
their mules.

There is, however, no hope whatever to be entertained that such outrages will cease until
the presence of a military force in the Territory, judiciously distributed and posted, shall, by
intimidation, coerce these intractable savages to do what no treaty, however liberal, and no
amount of annuities will, in my opinion, induce them to do.

I am glad indeed to find that General Pope is taking such excellent steps to facilitate and
protect our miners, farmers, and others, as they spread themselves out from the more settled
portions of the Territory, and advance to the peaceful conquest of the wilder regions. The
military posts he contemplates (as I learn from the newspapers) establishing between Fort
Reno and Virginia City will go far to throw into our hands the magnificent valley of the
Yellowstone, which the Sioux, Mountain Crows, and Arapahoes now hold defiantly.

But I respectfully suggest and advise that the superintendent of Indian affairs in this Ter-
ritory, or some other party, be instructed at the earliest day to invite the Crows (to whom
the valley of the Yellowstone properly belongs) to a council, for the purpose of having a
treaty instituted with them, which shall cede their lands (a third of our Territory) to the
United States, and give them all the usual guarantees and liberality of our government.
I have the honor to be, very truly yours,

THOMAS FRANCIS MEAGHER,
Acting Governor Territory of Montana.

The COMMISSIONER of Indian Affairs.

VIRGINIA CITY, April 6, 1866.

SIR : According to your request, I herewith transmit to you what information I have in
regard to the numbers, condition, wants, &c., of the Shoshone and Bannack Indians.

First. From what I can learn, the Shoshones number about eleven hundred, the Bannacks
four or five hundred. As a general thing, they run together, swap squaws, &c., separating
occasionally into small parties for hunting purposes. The language principally used is
Shoshone.

Second. As regards their condition, they are poor, subject at all times to be cheated and
robbed by the whites without any redress. The neighboring Indians make frequent raids,
take all the ponies they can get, killing what Indians they can that are guarding the stock.

Third. They range about the headwaters of the Yellowstone, Gallatin, Madison, Snake,
and Green rivers, and around Bannack and Boise, frequently in the Territory of Utah.

Fourth, their wants, as I understand them, are, first, an agent to look after their interests ;
a reservation set off for them exclusively ; some agricultural implements, seeds, &c. ; a treaty
made with neighboring Indians, by which all stock stolen by either party, if not returned
after being proven and demanded, the value of the said stock to be kept out of the annuities
of the tribe or band taking che said stock and given to the tribe or band losing the same.
Recognition and annuities, same as other tribes receive, under similar circumstances.

Fifth. The most influential of them feel that the Great Spirit has so ordered that they must
give way to the pale faces, and that their only safety is in throwing themselves into the hands
of the Great Chief at Washington, asking that he will throw his big robe of protection over
them until they fulfil the destiny for which they were created.

All of which is most respectfully submitted to your excellency.
I have the honor to be your most obedient servant,

NATHANIEL T. HALL.

His Excellency THOMAS FRANCIS MEAGHER,

Acting Governor of the Territory of Montana.

No. 79.

FLATHEAD INDIAN AGENCY,

Montana Territory, April 26, 1866.

SIR : I have the honor to state that yesterday Geary, head chief of the Spokane tribe of
Indians, called at this agency to see me. Himself and part of his people had been on their
annual buffalo hunt and were on their way to their homes. During our conversation, he
(Geary) informed me that his tribe had not yet made a treaty with the United States govern-
ment, but were anxious to do so; that the whites were encroaching on their lands; and that
the Spokaues wished to treat with the government, cede all their rights to the country now
occupied and claimed by them, and be placed on a reservation.

MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCY. 201

They reside on the Spokane river near the Pend d'OreSlle lake, Northern Idaho, and have
at times given much trouble to the whites. The tribe is composed of about seventy lodges,
and numbers from three hundred to three hundred and fifty souls.

Geary appears very anxious that his people make a treaty with the government, cede their
present Territory to it, and remove on this reservation, and be consolidated with and form a
part of the confederate Flathead nation.

He says that this is the wish of his people ; but whether sucn is the case or not I am unable
to say. I promised him that I would write you on this subject, and make his wishes known
to the government.

The Spokaues speak the same dialect as the Flatheads and Pend d'Oreilles, and have
always been on friendly terms with them and the Kootenays ; and, as this reservation is
eighty miles long and seventy wide, there is abundent room on it for them. In fact, the
Spokanes, Coeur d'Alenes, Colvilles, and every other tribe of Indians in northern Montana
and Idaho north and west of this place, might be advantageously located on this reservation,
and there Avould still be room left for others. The same grist arid saw-mills, shops, indus-
trial school and farm, physician, hospital, and employe's already provided, would answer for
all ; and the enormous expense attending the establishment of a separate reservation in this
country be saved to the government.

Looking at this matter in a pecuniary light, it seems to me to be the true policy of the
government to treat with the above-named tribes of Indians at an early day, extinguish their
right and title to all the Territory now occupied and claimed by them, and at the same time
place them upon a reservation with other Indians separate and apart from the whites. The
second article of the treaty with the Flathead nation provides that other tribes of Indians
may be placed on this reservation, and be consolidated with and form part of the confederate
Flathead nation.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

AUGUSTUS H. CHAPMAN.

United States Indian Agent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

, Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 80.

FLATHEAD AGENCY, MONTANA TERRITORY,

March 3, 1866.

SIR : There is located on this reservation a trading post, kept by one Stubbs, who claims
that he is an agent of the Hudson Bay Company and is doing business for them. This trad-
ing post is located some twenty-five miles distant from this agency, so far off that I can have
little information in regard to his actions as a trader. He is located on the Pend d'Oreille
Lake road, and trades with Indians, travellers, and citizens. He says he was sent there
by the Hudson Bay Company with orders to remain there and trade until he was forcibly
ejected from the reservation. He (Stubbs) is now making arrangements to erect nice build-
ings and open a farm at his present location. Is there any stipulation in our treaties with
Great Britain which permits agents of this company to locate on Indian reservations and
trade with Indians without permission from the agent of the United States government?

I dislike very much to have persons on this reservation not under rny jurisdiction, especially
subjects of a foreign nation. If said Stubbs has no legal right on this reservation and it
meets with your approval, I will proceed to eject him and his goods from the same.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. H. CHAPMAN,
United States Indian Agent, I. T.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 80 a.

OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS, May 30, 1866.

SIR : I herewith transmit a copy of a communication from Agent Chapman, relative to
a trader, who is stated to have established himself at the Flathead agency, sent there, as he
states, "by the Hudson Bay Company, with orders to remain there until he was forcibly
ejected from the reservation." This letter was sent to the Governor of Idaho by the agent,
but as the agency has been restored to your superintendency, the reply is sent to you.

There is no stipulation in any treaty with Great Britain which allows employe's of the
Hudson Bay Company to trade within the limits of the United States. Article 3 of the
Treaty of Washington, of 1846, provided that " the possessory rights of the Hudson Bay
Company, and of all British subjects who may be already in the occupation of land or other

202 MONTANA SUPERINTENDED Y,

property lawfully acquired within the said Territory, shall be respected, "but there is no res-
ervation of any right to trade.

When, in 1850, Anson Dart was appointed superintendent of Indian affairs for Oregon,
(that Territory then covering the district in which the Flathead agency is,) special instruc-
tions upon the subject of traders were given to him, in these words : " Under no circumstances
should the (Hudson Bay) Company be permitted to have trading establishments within
the limits of our Territory ; and if any such establishments now exist, they should be
promptly proceeded against In accordance with the requirements of the intercourse law."

The intercourse law, referred to, approved June 30, 1834, is very stringent in its provis-
ions. Sections 4 to 1 1 inclusive provide the necessary remedies and penalties against unlaw-
ful, trade with the Indians, in the forfeiture of all merchandise offered for sale to the Indians,
and a fine of $500; a penalty of $1,000 is provided against any party who shall make a set-
tlement on any lands belonging to an Indian tribe; and another penalty of $1,000 is pro-
vided in the case of a foreigner who shall go into the Indian country without a passport from
the War Department (now Interior Department) superintendent or agent.

You will therefore instruct Agent Chapman to take such measures to notify the party re-
ferred to, to leave the country, giving him reasonable time for such departure, and if he
should remain after such notice, to proceed against him under the intercourse law.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. N. COOLEY, Commissioner.

Hon. SIDNEY EDGERTON,

Governor and ex-officio Superintendent Indian Affairs,

Virginia City, Montana Territory.

No. 81.

OFFICE OF THE BLACKFEET INDIAN AGENCY,

Benton City, Montana Territory, July 25, 1866.

SIR: In compliance with the requirements of the department I herewith transmit my
report as to the condition and conduct of the Indians of this agency during the time that I
have been the acting agent for them.

On the 1st day of July, 1865, I entered the service of Major Gad E. Upson as clerk. I
continued in his service and assisted in making the treaty last November. About the Jst of
December last, Major. Upson left here for Washington on business connected with the treaty.
Upon leaving he appointed me his deputy, with orders to remain in charge and control of
the agency until his return. As you are aware, he died in California in March last while on
his way to the States. Since that time I have been acting more directly under the orders of
the Hon. Thomas F. Meagher, superintendent of Indian affairs of the Territory. My report
will reach from December 1, 1865, to July 25, 1866.

Immediately after the conclusion of the treaty of last fall the Bloods, Blackfeet, and a
portion of the Piegans started to war, not only on other tribes of Indians, but also upon the
whites. I will give only a list of the murders committed by them during the past winter ; as
the number of horses stolen by them reached the thousands I shall not endeavour to make
any list of them.

In the latter part of November last or the first of December, a large war party of Bloods
and Piegans attacked the camp of one Michelle Ogden near Medicine Rock. They killed
his herder and drove off all his horses.

Perhaps in this single instance there might have been a shadow of cause on the side of the
Blackfeet, inasmuch as Ogden was a half-breed and lived with the Pend d'Oreille Indians, who
are deadly enemies to the Blackfeet.

In December, while the miners were prospecting for gold on one of the tributaries of the
Yellowstone, a war party of Bloods and Piegans came up to them and, pretending to be
friendly, succeeded in obtaining possession of their arms and then murdered them in cold
blood.

During the same month two citizens of this place, Hunicke and Legree, while returning
from the Gros Ventres camp on Milk river, were overtaken by a party of Blackfeet and both
murdered.

Several women and children of the Gros Ventres tribe were coming to the fort in company
with the two whites. They were all killed except two children : these were held as prisoners
and taken to camp. A few weeks after, the Little Dog, chief of the lower Piegans, took
them from the Blackfeet and returned them to their people.

In February, 1866, a party of whites started from Helena City for the mouth of Muscle-
shell river for the purpose of opening a wagon road between the two points on the south side
of the Missouri. They were attacked by a party of Indians supposed to be Piegans. One
white man was wounded and one Indian killed.

In April a large party of Indians, (supposed to be North Piegans, ) headed by a chief
named Bull's Head, attacked the buildings of the government farm on Sun river. At the
time there were two men in the house, Cass. Huff and Nicholas Shannon. Huff was killed

MONTANA SLPERINTENDENCY. 203

while going from the house to the river after water. The Indians then set fire to the buidings,
which, being perfectly dry, burned like tinder. Shannon remained in the house until the
heat became so intense that it fired off the loaded guns in the house. There were in the house,
at the time, two boxes of shells for a J 2-pound howitzer. Shannon remained until the flames
reached these and then jumped from the window on the opposite side of the house from where
the Indians were. He had gone about twenty yards from the house when the ammunition
exploded, filling the air with logs and timbers and completely demolishing the whole house.
After travelling three days and nights Shannon reached the rancho of one Paul Vermet on
the Dearborn creek. The Indians killed seven head of oxen at the farm.

From here they proceeded to the mission of the Jesuit Fathers, near the junction of Sun
river with the Missouri. Here they killed one John Fitzgerald almost in sight of the house,
and finished up by killing ten head of fine cattle.

From here they went to the rancho of Paul Vermet on the Dearborn. At this place they
killed Charles Carson in sight of the house and drove off a band of horses. These murders
were mostly committed by Indians belonging to tribes that were present and signed the
treaty here in November last.

The Bloods, Blackfeet, and most of the North Piegans are at open war with the whites, as
well as with all other tribes of Indians. They live for the most part in the British possessions,
and only come here to receive their annuity goods or to commit some depredations. Many
of them have never been here at all. These Indians have plenty of horses, and living in a
country where buffalo and other game is abundant, they are very independent. They openly
and defiantly declare that they will kill every white man they find, and, as practice has
demonstrated, they carry their threat into execution whenever an opportunity presents itself.

There are about three hundred and fifty or four hundred lodges of Lower Piegans, who
live on the head waters of Milk river and the Marias. These Indians have for several years
been controlled by two head chiefs, viz., the Little Dog and Big Lake. This camp of Indi-
ans are in the habit of coming to the post to trade. I am fully satisfied that all the chiefs
and headmen of this tribe are in favor of a lasting peace towards the government. There
are, however, many young men in the camp who are continually on the war path against
other Indians, and who, in the course of their excursions, are continually meeting with
whites. In such cases a collision generally occurs, thus keeping up hostilities between the
whites and the young warriors, while the chiefs and old men are trying to keep peace.

In June last the Little Dog, head chief of the Piegans, came in from camp and turned
over to me twelve head of horses which he had taken from the warriors, they having stolen
them from the whites. He was followed by a party of warriors, and when about four miles
from here on his return to camp, he and his son were both murdered. They were killed be-
cause they were suspected of being too friendly with the whites.

The Bloods, Blackfeet, and Piegans are, in fact, all one people, and although they inhabit
different portions of the country, yet they all talk the Blackfeet language, are intermarried
together, and communicate to each other every move made by the whites. The Gros Ven-
tres, on the other hand, are of a different nation. They number about two hundred and fifty,
perhaps two hundred and seventy-five, lodges. Ever since the conclusion of the treaty they
have kept their part of it with all faith. They are living on Milk river and on the Missouri.
They are some two hundred and fifty miles from here. They are at peace with both tribes of
the Crows, but at war with the Blackfeet, Bloods, and Piegans. They usually camp and
live with the Lower Crows. I would respectfully call your attention to the necessity of estab-
lishing a separate agency for the Crows and Gros Venires at or in the vicinity of the mouth
of the Muscleshell river.

The Gros Ventres, in coming here, have to fight their way through the Blackfeet and the
Piegan's country for a distance of two hundred miles. They say that they would rather do
without their goods than come here after them, as they are sure to lose their horses at the
hands of their old enemies the Piegans. The Crows, in going to Fort Union after their pres-
ents, are obliged to pass through 150 miles of Assinaboine country, and, being at war with
them, they are in as bad a fix as the Gros Ventres. It is impossible to make any lasting
peace between these tribes.

Nothing has been done on the government farm or on Sun river this year. When the In-
dians burned the buildings last April all the tools, farming implements, &c., were destroyed.
The farmer was obliged to desert the farm, and since that time no white man could be induced
to live there.

About the 20th of June last the steamboat Miner arrived here with a portion of the annuity
goods aboard for this year. These I have stored to await the arrival of Mr. Wright, the new
agent.

I shall remain here till Mr. Wright arrives, and turn everything belonging to the govern-
ment over to him, and give him a list of property destroyed on Sun river farm.

I have the office furniture at this place. I shall turn everything -over to Mr. Wright.

Hoping that my report will prove satisfactory, I remain, very respectfully, your obedient
servant,

HIRAM D. UPHAM,

Deputy Agent for Blackfeet.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D, C.

204 MONTANA SUPERINTENDENCE

No. 82.

FORT BENTON, MONTANA TERRITORY,

August 30, 1866.

DEAR SIR : I am unable to give you any information respecting the Blackfeet tribe of my
Indians, beyond the fact that they are still, as they have been for some time past, in the Brit-
ish possessions. They trade at Fort Edmonton. Their lodges are not precisely known, and
what there are that generally come to the agency for their annuities they receive the three
twenty-second part of all the goods sent. The treaty of last year they do not consider as
binding on them, for they were, numerically, poorly represented at that treaty by their chiefs
and headmen. They are at open war, in company with the Bloods, against the whites.
They killed, in the Bear's Paw mountain, last winter, two white men, named Hunicke
and Legree, who were returning from the Gros Ventres camp with their horses, which
the Gros Ventres had stolen from them. These Blackfeet Indians are very wild, and it is at
times difficult in sending messengers to their camp or seeing many of their tribes.

The Bloods are also of a very wild and seemingly ungovernable nature, with the exception
of some forty lodges who live with the Lower Piegans. Father of All Children is the chief
of their lodges. These Indians are located near the headwaters of Milk river. These Indi-
ans have, according to the last year's distribution, six twenty-second parts of the goods sent.
This year, how r ever, the goods designed for them are properly baled and marked, as well as
the bales and boxes for the other tribes. The balance of the Blood Indians are with the Up-
per Piegans, in the British possessions.

The Lower Piegans have some three hundred and seventy-five lodges. They are located
on the Marias river. They are quiet at the present time, although on last winter they Avere
rather inclined to trade with the whites without giving a fair exchange. I myself think they
are disposed to be friendly and quiet. Big Lake is their head chief.

The Upper Piegans emigrate extensively, living at times with the Lower Piegans and at
others with the Bloods. It is the opinion of Mr. Upham that these Indians burned the agency
buildings at Sun River farm on the 22d of last April, from the description given by the head
Indian, who commanded a force of about thirty Indians at the time of the burning. There
seems no doubt they were led on by Bull's Head, one of the chiefs of the tribe. No measures
have yet been taken to rebuild the agency house or cultivate the farm, as it does not seem
advisable until military troops are stationed near enough to protect those who locate upon it.

The Upper and Lower Piegans are united under the head of Piegans in the distribution of
annuities. The Gros Ventres Indians live with the Lower Crows on Milk river. They are
very quiet, and are the only tribe who have kept in good faith every requirement of last fall's
treaty. These Indians have three hundred lodges. Many Bear is one of their prominent
chiefs and Farmase is their head chief. The Gros Ventres and Piegans are constantly at war
with each other, and they each, therefore, have separate days assigned them on which to
receive their annuities.

So soon as I arrange the distribution of my goods and become better acquainted with the
duties of my office, I trust to be able to give you a more satisfactory account of the condition
of affairs.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. B. WRIGHT, Indian Agent.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY.

No. 83.

HEADQUARTERS WEST SUB-DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA,

Fort Laramie, D. T., January 25, J866.

SiR : I have the honor to furnish for your information the following statement regarding
Indian affairs within the limits of my command :

The west sub-district of Nebraska extends from Julesburg to the South Pass, containing
the posts of Fort Mitchell^ Fort Laramie, Fort Marshall, Fort Casper, and Fort Reno, with
their outposts and dependencies. These are located along the line of the Pacific telegraph
and on the road through the South Pass, excepting Fort Reno, which is on Powder river.

The jurisdiction over Indians extends north of the Platte to the Yellowstone, embracing
the Ogalalla and Brule Sioux, the band of Northern Cheyennes and the Arapahoes.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY. 205

In October last it was thought advisable by General Wheaton, the commander of the dis-
trict, then at Fort Laramie, to send messengers to the Sioux to inform them that tribes were
making peace and an opportunity would be offered them to do the same. The mission was
so dangerous that no white man could have been found to undertake it, and accordingly rive
Indians, who had always been friendly, were sent for and asked if they were willing to go
and find the Sioux. They very willingly consented, and being provided with the necessary
outfit, set out on the journey from which many, even of the oldest men of the country, pro-
phecied they would never return. General Wheaton soon afterwards left for Omaha, leaving
me to carry out the plans he had commenced.

November and December passed, and no tidings were received of the messengers. About
the beginning of January, an Indian well known about the fort, and whom I knew five years
ago, came to the house of a settler about fifteen miles off and asked if I were the commanding
officer, and whether he could see me. The settler brought him to me, and my first question
was in regard to the messengers. He had not seen them, but had observed a place where
there had apparently been a fight, with papers torn and strewed over the ground, &,c., and
I was afraid the messengers had been killed by the Cheyennes, a band of which tribe was
then on the North Platte travelling south.

I sent this Indian back to his band with two half-breeds who lived near the fort, as he said
his people would sooner believe them than himself, and have not since heard of them.

On the 15th of January it was reported to me that a number of Indians were seen approach-
ing the house of a settler about eight niles below this fort. I made preparations at once to
send an armed party to his rescue, when a messenger came from him to tell me the Indians
were those that had been sent out and the Swift Bear's band.

I was greatly rejoiced, as I feared that even if they had escaped enemies they had perished
from cold, (for the months of November and December were extremely severe,) and on the
]6th of January I hoisted a white flag, as had been agreed upon, and received with heartfelt
satisfaction my faithful braves and a deputation, with Swift Bear at their head.

Here I would respectfully call your attention, sir, to the great value of the services ren-
dered by these messengers. Of the five, four, named as follows : Big Ribs, Big Mouth, Ea-
gle Foot, and Whirlwind, came from the vicinity of Denver, and the remaining one, Little
Crow, a man of seventy-five years of age, resides near this fort. Big Ribs was the head man
and leader of the party. He is an Indian of tried fidelity and has been employed in various
capacities on account of his well known honesty and truthfulness.

They ventured forth in the face of perils that the oldest mountaineer in the country would
have shrunk from, and after enduring cold, liunger, and hardship, found the Swift Bear and
delivered their message of peace. Without this, I do not know how the Sioux could have
been communicated with, or the present very favorable aspect of affairs could have been
brought about.

Some expression of approbation, such as a medal, or a parchment with a seal and ribbon,
from the bureau, which they could be told came from the Great Father, would be very ac-
ceptable to them. May I take the liberty to beg your consideration of this, sir, as I think
these brave, faithful men richly deserve such marks of honor.

After exchanging greetings a council was held. I told Swift Bear I was very glad to see
him and had sent messengers to say he might come and see me without fear, that we might
talk together. If the Sioux were willing to abstain from all hostilities and not commit any
depredations upon the whites, I would tell the Great Father so and he would make peace
with them. They must understand that they were offered peace and not asked for it, and
it was for them to decide whether they would accept it or not. For myself, I was only the
military commander, and could make no treaty, but I would protect them from all maltreat-
ment and would permit them to camp where they could get game and live quietly.

I then introduced Mr. Jarrot, the Indian agent, who made some remarks of a similar
purport.

The Swift Bear answered that he had come when he received my message, as he believed
it to be true. He knew the big war was over and the Great Father had peace with all his
white children. He wanted peace and would be very glad to make it, and promised tliat no
more depredations should be committed. Heretofore they had been afraid to come to the fort
for fear of being killed, but now they were glad to be able to come and get some things for
their women and children, who were naked and starving.

After some further talk about presents and provisions, the council broke up and Mr. Jarrot
and myself issued them some clothing and provisions.

I have information that the Red Cloud, the principal chief of the Ogalallas, will be here in
a short time with a large band, some two hundred and fifty lodges.

Those that have come in are in a condition of utter destitution and have been on the verge
of starvation. I have no hesitation in saying that I believe them to be perfectly sincere, and
this opinion is based on considerable intercourse during five years with these same Indians,

As soon as I have completed all arrangements with the Ernie's and Ogalallas I will direct
them to go to the Black Hills, eighty miles north, and establish their camps until spring.
This is their favorite ground, but for three years they have not been permitted to occupy it.

The band of Northern Cheyennes affiliate with the Sioux, and I have good reason to sup-
pose that they will ask to be allowed to come in.

206 NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENT.

The Arapahoes are at a great distance (nearly seven hundred miles) from here, on the Big
Horn and Yellowstone, and cannot be communicated with until spring. If they should con-
tinue to be hostile, the aid of the Sioux can be obtained next summer to chastise them.

Among the many advantages which would attend a peace with all the Indians on the great
overland route may be mentioned, first, the security of life and property in travelling and
freighting from the Missouri river to the mines of Idaho and Montana, and I am informed
that the travel next spring will be very great, with a proportionally large amount of freight-
ing ; second, the facilities offered for further exploration and development of the country ;
third, the security of the telegraph and mail coaches ; fourth, the immense saving in expense
in the reduction of the military force to a few posts, instead of moving expeditions, which are
very costly and rarely effective.

It is, however, unnecessary to enlarge upon the self-evident fact that peace properly se-
cured, as I feel it can be, is the best possible policy.

My report has reached a greater length than I intended, for which my apology is that I felt
it my duty to keep you fully informed of all that was transpiring relative to the people under
your care.

It gives me pleasure to say that in Mr. Jarrot I find a very capable and agreeable gentle-
man, and all our views and plans harmonize perfectly.

As this is a subject in which I have taken great interest, I shall be most happy to receive
any instructions you may have to give me and to execute them to the best of my ability.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY E. MAYNADIER,
Colonel Fifth United States Volunteers, Commanding.

Bon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

No. 84.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF MISSOURI,

St. Louis, Missouri, February 12, 1866.

SIR : For reply to your letter of the 22d ultimo, I have to suggest that Fort Laramie be the
place for making treaty with bands of Sioux, Arapahoes, and Northern Cheyennes, and such
other tribes as can be brought in, and that June 30 be the time.

Any presents, good. ., &c., that you may think it advisable to send, ought to be at Fort
Leaven worth by April 1, or not later than April 10, in order to be sent out in time to reach
Laramie by the specified day.

I .desire to be advised as soon as practicable whether this arrangement will suit your views,
in order that I may send runners to all the tribes east of the mountains and south and west
of the Missouri river, so that the various tribes may be represented by delegations or entire
tribes, as they may elect.

Many of the runners sent hitherto to bands of the Sioux, Arapahoes, and Northern Chey-
ennes have not yet reported ; all that have bring favorable reports, and several bands are
making their way slowly to Laramie. The snow is very deep and weather severely cold.

In relation to commissioners being appointed to treat with these Indians, I have only to
suggest that, in my judgment, it will be good policy to place upon the commission, in addi-
tion to the proper officers of the Interior Department, the several commanding officers of rank
in that region of country, in order to secure harmony of action hereatter between officers of
the War and Interior Departments. I would suggest General Dodge, General Wheaton, and
Colonel Maynadier.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
;. JOHN POPE,

Major General Commanding.

Hon. J. HARLAN, Secretary of the Interior.

No. 85.
[By telegraph from Fort Leavenworth, March 11, 1866.]

UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,

March 12, 1866,
Major General JNO. P. SHERBURN, A. A. General :

Referring to letter of Secretary Harlan and Commissioner Cooley, I do not think it practi-
cable to get Indians together May 10. They all understand they are to come by June 30.

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDED Y. 207

Most of them have gone hunting. The Aarapahoes and Cheyennes, on account of poor
stock, cannot get in there before the time named. General Wheaton says Superintendent
Taylor, at Omaha, thinks June 30 the best time. These Indians expect presents.

G. M. DODGE, Major General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,

5*. Louis, Missouri, March 12, 1866.
Official :

JOHN P. SHERBURN,

Assistant Adjutant General.

[Referred by General Pope to the Interior Department. ]

No. 86.

HEADQUARTERS WEST SUB-DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA,

Fort Laramie, Dakota Territory, March 9, 1866.

SIR : I respectfully submit the following report of an occurrence of interest to the Indian
bureau, and, as I believe, of great importance in assuring the success of my efforts to make
peace :

Some days since I received a messenger from Pegaleshka, head chief of the Brule Sioux,
saying that his daughter had died on the way here, and had begged her father to have her grave
made with the whites. My consent was asked to permit this to be done. I knew the girl
five years ago, then a child of twelve, and at her death about seventeen. She died from ex-
posure and inability to sustain the severe labor and hardship of the wild Indian life. I
replied that I would be glad to have Pegaleshka bring his child here, and would give him all
the assistance in my power.

Yesterday I was informed that he had reached the Platte and would soon be at the fort.
Wishing to do him honor as being one of the principal chiefs of the nation, and on account of
the peculiar circumstances of his visit, I rode out with several officers and met him half way
between the fort and the Platte. After greeting him, I conducted him to the fort and to my
headquarters. I then informed him that the Great Father offered peace to the Indians, and
desired them to have it for their own benefit and welfare. That, in two or three months,
commissioners would come to treat with them and settle everything on a permanent basis of
peace and friendship. I sympathized deeply in his affliction, and felt honored by his confi-
dence in committing to my care the remains of a child whom I knew he loved much. The
Great Spirit had taken her, and he never did anything except for some good purpose.
Everything should be prepared to have her funeral at sunset, and as the sun went down it
might remind him of the darkness left in his lodge when his beloved daughter was taken
away; but as the sun would surely rise again, so she would rise, and some day we would all
meet in the land of the Great Spirit.

The chief exhibited deep emotions during my remarks, and tears fell from his eyes, a rare
occurrence in an Indian, and for some time he could not speak. After taking my hand he
commenced with the following eloquent oration: "This must be a dream for me to be in
such a fine room and surrounded by such as you. Have I been asleep during the last four
years of hardship and trial and am dreaming that all is to be well again, or is this real ? Yes,
I see that it is ; the beautiful day, the sky blue, without a cloud, the wind calm and still to suit
the errand I come on and remind me that you have offered me peace. We think we have
been much wronged and are entitled to compensation for the damage and distress caused by
making so many roads through our country, and driving off and destroying the buffalo and
game. My heart is very sad, and I cannot talk on business ; I will wait and see the coun-
sellors the Great Father will send."

The scene was one of the most impressive I ever saw, and produced a marked effect upon
all the Indians present, and satisfied some who had never before seemed to believe it, that an
Indian had a human heart to work on and was not a wild animal.

Preparations were then made for the funeral of the chiefs daughter. A scaffold was erected
at the cemetery and a coffin made. Just before sunset the body was carried to the scaffold,
followed by her father and mother and other relatives, with the chaplain, myself, and officers,
and many of the soldiers of the garrison, and many Indians. Amid profound silence, and,
as I was glad to see, with the most devout and respectful behavior on the part of every white
man present, the chaplain delivered a touching and eloquent prayer, which was interpreted
by Mr. Gott. 1 can hardly describe my feelings at witnessing this first Christian burial of
an Indian, and one of such consideration in her tribe. The hour, the place, the solemnity,
even the restrained weeping of her mother and aunts, all combined to affect any one deeply.

I attach great importance to this ceremony as rendering beyond a doubt the success of
the efforts I have made to restore peace. It satis ties me of the entire trustiness of Pegaleshka,
who is always with Red Cloud, and they two rule the nation. A man of Pegaleshka's Intel-

208 NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCE

ligenceand shrewdness would never have confided the remains of his child to the care of any
one but those with whom he intended to be friends always. The occurrence of such an inci-
dent is regarded by the oldest settlers, men of most experience in Indian character, as un-
precedented, and as calculated to secure a certain and lasting peace.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

HENRY A. MAYNADIER,

Colonel of the Fifth United States Volunteers, Commanding.
Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.

No. 87.

Report of the commissioners appointed by the President of the United States to treat with the

Indians at Fort Laramie.

The commissioners appointed by the President of the United States to enter into treaties of
peace and friendship with the Indians of the Upper Platte agency all met by appointment at
Fort Laramie.

It required a considerable time to give such information to the Brute and Ogalalla bands
of Sioux as would be likely to secure a general attendance, they being much scattered at the
time of our arrival.

In the meanwhile rumors of a -discouraging character were in daily circulation of the dis-
inclination of the Indians to give government the desired road to Montana by the way of
Powder river. These rumors, on being traced, appeared to have a very doubtful origin,
being mainly spread abroad by persons interested in keeping up an agitation for the purpose
of keeping freights at high rates. These persons have but little at stake, as they reside in
parts of the country not likely to suffer directly from Indian depredations, while they profit
largely by magnifying the dangers of travelling to emigrants and freighters, and using
these imaginary dangers as an excuse to increase the prices of their wares. On the other
hand, these traders and dealers who are immediately among the Indians, and who are always
the victims of an outbreak, are unanimously in favor of a peace that shall be lasting and
mutually beneficial. They are men who have lived long among the Indians, and their assist-
ance and agency are important and valuable both to the government and the Indians.

Although the Indians, as might naturally be expected, were reluctant to allow the pro-
posed road to pass through the best of their remaining hunting grounds, yet when informed
of the wishes of the government, and of our disposition to give a liberal equivalent, they ac-
quiesced in our request in a full council, after a full expression of sentiment had taken place
on both sides. The only change they suggested to the proposed terms consisted in the re-
quest of having their annuity goods distributed semi-annually, that is to say, at a specified
time in the spring and fall. This proposition met our decided approval, as we believed it
would greatly benefit the Indians.

The Cheyennes were represented by some* chiefs and head soldiers, who stated that the
main village was some distance off and could not come in for a long time. A treaty exactly
similar to that made with the Sioux was prepared and read to them, and they signed it, being
fully authorized to do so, and guaranteeing that the other chiefs would ratify their action.
This treaty was left in the hands of Colonel Maynadier, or other commanding officer, for the
signature of the absent when they shall arrive, with the condition that it is to be executed
previous to the 1st of November next. ^

The Arapahoes having passed the winter on the Yellowstone, it was not possible to com-
municate with them in time for them to come to the council. On the 28th of June a party of
six Arapahoes arrived as messengers from the main village, to say that they had heard of the
treaty, and were anxious to avail themselves of the same advantages as had been given to
the Sioux. These messengers were authorized by the tribe to speak for them. They further
said that the Arapahoes were going to make peace with the Sioux, Crows, and Cheyennes,
and wished also to make peace with the whites. The treaty made with the Sioux and that
waiting for the Cheyennes, were read and fully explained to them, and they were informed
that a portion of goods would be retained for them. They were entirely satisfied, and
promised to report truly and faithfully to their chiefs what had been said to them.

Thus it will be seen that the results of the commissioners' labors are a treaty entirely con-
cluded with the Ogalalla and Ernie" Sioux, one negotiated and partly perfected with the
Cheyennes, and a very favorable prospect of making the same terms with the Arapahoes.
The Brutes being fully represented had the full share of their presents given to them, and,
with a reserve for two absent chiefs, the Ogalallas have also received their share. The goods
remaining in the hands of the agent, and now deposited in the government storehouse, will
be delivered to the absent bands when they may come in and have signed the proposed treaty.

From what we saw and heard the treaty gave as much satisfaction to the parties concerned
as, under existing circumstances, could have been expected. We are aware that evil-disposed

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENT. 209

persons, actuated by malice or cupidity, have endeavored to create in the public mind a doubt
of the perma'neuce of the treaty. Whether it proves lasting or otherwise, depends very much
on the conduct of the white men who are either settled in that country or who are passing
through it.

I was gratified to find, although contrary to our expectations, that some of the Sioux were
disposed to resort to farming for their future support. We gave them the assurance that the
government would extend a helping hand to those who were so inclined, being fully per-
suaded that the time is not far distant when they must supply themselves from the cultivated
fields or be supported by the government, the game, which until recently formed their chief,
if not their sole subsistence, being already greatly diminished, and now fast disappearing.
The presents and provisions issued were received ^cheerfully and thankfully, and the whole
conduct and speech of the Indians were indicative of their sincerity and intention to abide
by their treaties.

The commissioners respectfully recommend that a delegation of the Indians with whom
these treaties have been made be permitted to visit the city of Washington. They suggest
that the delegation consist of three Ogalallah chiefs, three Brule chiefs, three Cheyenne chiefs,
and three Arapahoe chiefs, with sufficient interpreters and managers. These Indians have
never seen the whites except in their rudest condition, and though they have heard- much of
their numbers, power, and magnificence, they do not realize the idea as they would if they
could see the wonders they have heard of. They have often asked the privilege, and in the
ensuing fall it would be excellent policy and an act of justice to grant their request.

The commissioners further recommend that fresh beef be authorized to be purchased and
issued to the Indians in lieu of a portion of the salt meat, say three-fourths fresh beef, one-
fourth smoked bacon; (pickled pork is difficult to transport, and bacon is preferred. ) Beef
can be had in the country cheaply and abundantly, and is the most economical food that can
be given to Indians. They eat, or otherwise make use of, every particle of an ox hide,
horns, flesh, entrails, hoofs, and bones.

Finally, the commissioners recommend that the salaries of Indian agents stationed at
remote points, such as Fort Laramie, be increased to a sum sufficient to support them, with-
out being compelled to resort to some other means of making a living. At the present rate
of pay and cost of provisions, it is impossible for a man of such education and ability as an
Indian agent should possess, to live without resorting to trade or speculation. It is believed
that an increase of salary to such an extent as will insure a comfortable living would secure
for Indian agents a class of men who would devote themselves exclusively to their duties,
and perform them to the mutual satisfaction of the government and the Indians.

Respectfully submitted :

E. B. TAYLOR.

HENRY E. MAYNADIER,

Colonel 5th U. S. Volunteers.

No. 88.

AGENCY OF THE UPPER PLATTE,

Fort Laramie, September 20, 1866.

SIR: On the 18th instant I assumed the duties of this office, relieving Colonel Vital Jarrot,
and receipting for all the property belonging to the agency.

I find the Indians in different localities. Big Mouth's band, of three hundred Indians,
are in camp near Horse creek, and the balance of the Sioux, consisting of Spotted Tail
band, three hundred; Swift Bear's band, two hundred and fifty; Iron Shell's band,
three hundred ; The Man that Walks in the Ground, three hundred, besides three or four
hundred men in small bands, are in the game country, and about one hundred and fifty
women and children left here in camp, without any means of subsistence and in a starving
condition. These Indians all want peace, and say that on account of some few bad and
hostile Indians being in the game country, they have not been able to hunt as usual, for
fear of being charged with committing depredations that the hostile and bad Indians might
commit ; that they^are anxious to go on the reserves they were promised, and are all deter-
mined to carry out in good faith the treaties made, and I believe will do so. I am of the
opinion that if there is any way provided to place them on reserves, and subsist them until
they can raise crops, they will effectually settle down and cease all hostilities and com-
mit no depredations, and will be able to restrain and control the "bad men" of the tribes.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

M. T. PATRICK,
Agent Upper Platte Indians.
Colonel E. B. TAYLOR,

Superintendent Northern Superintcndency, Omaha, N. T.
14 ci

.210

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCE'.

No. 89.

OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,
Northern Superintendency, Omaha, Nebraska, October I, I860.

SIR : I have the honor, in conformity to the regulations of the department, to submit my
second annual report of the condition of Indian affairs in the northern superinteudency, to-
gether with the accompanying reports of a portion of the agents and employes of the differ-
ent agencies embraced within the superintendency. It is a matter of regret that up to the
present date no reports have been received from the Santee agency, at Niobrara, the Great
Nemaha agency, or the Pawnee agency. Should reports from these agencies reach me in time
to be forwarded to Washington in season to be embraced within the animal report made by
your department to the honorable Secretary of the Interior, I shall be gratified. All of the
agents have been requested to render their reports promptly, and a failure on the part of some
of them to comply with this request has delayed mine for several days beyond the usual
period of its rendition.

I am gratified in being able to state, however, that the condition of the various tribes em-
braced within this superintendency (with but a single exception) is highly satisfactory. A
portion of the Ogalallah band of Dakota, or Sioux Indians, of Upper Platte agency, (a sub-
band known as Bad Faces,) still continue to occupy an attitude of hostility towards the
whites, and have recently committed numerous depredations against the lives and property
of emigrants 'en route to the mining districts ot Montana via the Powder River route. Of
these depredations I will speak more in detail in the subsequent pages of this report.

Eleven tribes are embraced within this superintendency, numbering, in the aggregate,
according to the most reliable data within my reach, more than eighteen thousand souls.
The following table will exhibit, in a condensed form, the population of each tribe, the
names of the agents, and the location and designation of various agencies.

Name of tribe.

Popu-
lation.

Name of agents.

Name of agency.

Location.

Brule and Ogalallah
Sioux ....... ....

7,865
1,800
750
2,750
1,750
997

380
5J1
1,350

VM. T. Patrick.

John P. Becker..
Chas. Mathewson
R. W. Furnas...

C. H. Norris
JohnL. Smith...
J. M. Stone

Upper Platte

Fort Laramie, Dakota.

Nebraska.
Do.
Do.

Do.
Do.
Do.

Cheyennes. . .

Arapahoes

Pawnee.

Pawnees

\Vinnebagoes ..._..

Winneba^o

Omahas

Omaha

Sac and Foxes and
lowas of Missouri. .
Ottoes and Missourias
Santee Sioux

Great Nemaha

Ottoes andMissourias
Niobrara

Total

18,153

These tribes are embraced within seven agencies, and each is settled upon a reservation,
with the single exception of the tribes of the Upper Platte agency. The Sioux, Cheyennes,
and Arapahoes, which compose this agency, are what are known and designated as Blanket
Indians. They subsist chiefly by the hunt, and have no knowledge of and little inclination
for the pursuit of agriculture. A small portion of the Bnlle band of Sioux, several years
.ago, made an effort to raise corn in the valley of White river with fair success ; but the enter-
prise was discouraged by the great body of the band and it was abandoned. This sub-band
of the Brules still maintain a distinct organization, and is known to-day by the original ap-
pellation given to it as a mark of derision, the Corn Band. Aside from this small number,
not more in all than three hundred, the Upper Platte Sioux, Cheyennes, and Arapahoes,
regard labor as degrading, and there is little hope that they can be induced, for many years to
-come, to betake themselves to agriculture and abandon the chase. All the other tribes, how-
ever, within the northern superintendency, subsist, to a greater or less extent upon the pro-
ducts of the soil, and have come to regard the hunt as precarious and unprofitable. The Paw-
nees, Ottoes and Omahas, still continue to make their annual spring and fall hunt, but the
buffalo is becoming scarce and so remote from their respective reservations that there is little
doubt that these tribes will soon abandon the chase altogether, and rely solely for subsistence
upon the products of agriculture.

UPPER PLATTE AGENCY.

Three tribes, (the Brule and Ogalallah Sioux, Cheyennes of the Upper Platte, as contra-
distinguished from the Cheyennes of the Upper Arkansas, and the Arapahoes,) constitute

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY. 211

the Indians embraced within, the agency. They numbered in the aggregate, at the date
of fhe last reliable census, 10,382 souls. Previous to February last the great body of
these Indians were hostile, and had committed many of the most wanton and cruel outrages
upon the western emigration passing through the country which they inhabit. Indeed they
had become so bold and reckless that they attacked and destroyed emigrant trains within
thirty miles of Fort Kearney, a point only two hundred miles west of Omaha. The various
military expeditions sent against them by the government had failed to inflict upon them any
serious punishment, and the young men of the tribes had come to believe that these atrocities
might be continued without the slightest fear of serious consequences. The winter of 1865-6
proved to be one of unusual severity, however, in the region which they inhabit, and the
lono* continued cold weather (with snows of almost unprecedented depth) accomplished, in
the interests of peace, what war, waged at great expense, had failed to achieve. In Febru-
ary, 1866, a deputation of Indians representing the Sioux, by far the most numerous and
powerful of these tribes, reached Fort Laramie, and through an interpreter communicated with
Colonel Henry E. Maynadier, then, as now, in command of the district in which that im-
portant military post is situated. They represented to Colonel Maynadier that their tribes
were in a condition of utter destitution, without food and scantily supplied with clothing,
that their blankets were worn out, their horses and ponies nearly all dead, and that their
young men were tired of war and desired the re-establishment of peace. Colonel Maynadier
listened patiently to the story of their destitution and sufferings, and assured them that the
government was earnestly desirous that terms of peace and friendship should be re-established.
Provisions and tobacco were issued to them, and they returned to their tribes. Early in March
several of the chiefs, with portions of their bands, arrived at Fort Laramie, and a telegraphic
correspondence was held between them and the undersigned, who had during the preceding
winter been appointed by the President a member of a commission to negotiate, if practi-
cable, terms of peace. In that correspondence (a full report of which was at the time for-
warded to the Indian department at Washington) it was agreed, on the part of the chiefs,
all hostile .action on the part of the bands which they represented should be suspended until
the time fixed for the assembling of the peace commission at Fort Laramie on the first of
June following. This agreement was faithfully observed by the Indians, and no depredations
were committed by any of the lately hostile bands.

On the 1st of June, in pursuance of previous arrangement, the peace commission assem-
bled at Fort Laramie. It was constituted as follows: E. B. Taylor, superintendent Indian
affairs, president; Colonel Henry E. Maynadier, Colonel R. N. McLaren, of Minnesota, and
Thomas Wistar, of Philadelphia; Charles E. Bowles, esq., of the Indian department, secre-
tary; Frank Lehmer, of Omaha, Nebraska, assistant secretary.

The Brule and Ogalallah Sioux were largely represented by the principal chiefs and soldiers
of the respective bands, and at least two thousand of their people were in attendance. A
council was called soon after the arrival of the commissioners, which was attended by the
principal men of the two bands, and it was determined, after a full and free interchange of
opinion, to defer final action as to the conclusion of a treaty, until messengers could be sent
to the different sub-bands, who had failed to attend, inviting them to be present. Two weeks
later, additional delegations arrived. A band numbering perhaps three hundred warriors,
headed by Red Cloud, a prominent chief of the Ogalallahs, refused to come in. They are
known as Bad Faces, and are composed of the most refractory and desperate characters of
the tribe, who, having committed some serious infraction of the internal police of the tribe,
have congregated themselves together, and refuse to be governed by the will or action of the
majority. As at least seven-eighths of the two bands (the Brules and Ogalallahs) were
present, the commissioners determined to proceed with the negotiations. Frequent councils
were held, and the wishes and demands of the government were fully made known to the
Indians. Finally a treaty was prepared and submitted to them. Its provisions were care-
fully explained, and I have no doubt was thoroughly understood by every Indian who signed
it. Of course it would be improper to allude to its provisions here. They are believed to be
satisfactory to the government, arid I feel the utmost confidence that those whose assent they
received (and they represent not less than seven-eighths of the two powerful bands named)
will faithfully observe them.

The Bad Faces, to whom allusion has been made above, have committed several outrages
on the newly opened Powder River route to Montana, since the signing of the treaty ; but the
Indians who participated in the negotiations at Fort Laramie have, with scarcely an excep-
tion, faithfully kept their pledges. They will continue to do so, unless, from an inability to
procure subsistence elsewhere, they are compelled to remove into the region of Powder river,
where buffalo are most numerous, and thus become from necessity complicated with the Bad
Faces, who, up to the present time, are alone responsible for all the outrages which have
been committed on the plains since February. In these views I am fully corroborated by
Agent Patrick, who is now at Fort Laramie, and thoroughly conversant with all these facts.
I respectfully refer you to his letter of September 20, herewith forwarded, and to which the
attention of the department is respectfully directed. If the great body of the Upper Platte
Sioux, now disposed in good faith to observe their treaty stipulations, can be subsisted, or so.
far aided in obtaining the. necessaries of life that they will not be compelled to resort to the

212 NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENT Y.

country now infested by the Bad Faces, in order to escape starvation, I fully believe that a
general Indian war upon the plains may be' averted.

Agent Patrick telegraphs this office that one hundred and eighty lodges of the Cheyennes
and Arapahoes are coming into Fort Laramie for the purpose of securing peace. This is in
accordance with an arrangement agreed upon between the peace commissioners at Fort
Laramie, in June last, and the representatives of those tribes who were then present, but not
in sufficient numbers, in the opinion of the commissioners, to justify the conclusion of a treaty
with them. Agent Patrick asks for the necessary means to subsist these Indians, yfko are
coming in for the purpose of signing treaties left with Colonel Maynadier for their signature,
in the event of their arrival previous to November 1, as will be seen by reference to the official
report of the proceedings of the peace commission on file in the department. I trust that, if
practicable, subsistence may be afforded them. It is impossible for them to remain long in
the vicinity of Fort Laramie unless subsistence be furnished them by the government.

I have stated thus in detail the material facts connected with the Fort Laramie treaty, and
the previous and subsequent conduct of the Indians of the Upper Platte, for the purpose of
enabling the department and the country to place a proper estimate upon the exaggerated
reports which have emanated from Leavenworth and elsewhere during the past summer,
relative to Indian troubles in that region. That they are exaggerations no person at all
familiar with the facts can for one moment doubt.

THE WINNEBAGO AGENCY.

In my last annual report I submitted, somewhat in detail, a statement of the facts relative
to the removal of the Winnebago Indians from Minnesota to Crow creek, in Dakota, on the
Missouri river, and their subsequent arrival, almost in a starving, condition, at the Omaha
agency, seventy-five miles north of Omaha. A treaty made in March, 1865, between the
"Winnebagoes andtheOmahas and the government, providing for the purchase of about one-
third of the Omaha reserve for the use of the Winnebagoes, and the fitting up of the same,
was ratified by the Senate, and officially approved and promulgated by the President of the
United States last winter. The appropriations under that treaty have all been made, and the
work of fitting up the reservation, by the breaking of land, the building of agency houses,
shops, &c., the purchase of work-oxen, cattle, agricultural implements, horses, &c., is
progressing in the most satisfactory manner; and it affords me the highest personal satisfac-
tion to be able to assure the department that this deeply wronged and much abused tribe
will soon be, in all respects, comfortable and self-sustaining. They entered upon their new
reservation as late as May last, and during the present year they have raised at least twenty
thousand bushels of corn. Their lands are highly productive, and well supplied with timber
and water; and when all the projected improvements shall be completed, their condition will
be all that the most ardent friends of the tribe could desire.

I respectfully refer you to the report of Agent Mathewson, herewith forwarded, for the de-
tails of the general management of this agency.

THE OMAHA AGENCY.

The affairs of the Omaha Indians have been very successfully managed by Agent Furnas,
for several years past. His report, herewith forwarded, is so full and so satisfactory that,
without further comment, I respectfully commend it to your consideration.

THE OTTOE AND MISSOURIA AGENCY.

The Ottoes and Missourias are a small tribe numbering, at a recent census, as appears from
the annual report of Agent Smith, herewith transmitted, only 511 souls. They are located
on a large reservation in the southern portion of the Territory, on the waters of the Big Blue
river. It is in the centre of the most fertile and productive agricultural district of Nebraska,
and. is abundantly supplied with timber and water. Agent Smith's report will afford all de-
sired information relative to the general condition and management of this agency.

GREAT NEMAHA AGENCY.

No report has been received, at the present date, from this agency. A personal examina-
tion of the condition of the agency, however, enables me to state that it is eminently satis-
factory. It is situated adjacent to the boundary line between the State of Kansas and Ne-
braska, and is highly productive, well supplied with timber and water, and the agency
buildings, fences, shops, &c., are in excellent repair. The tribes composing this agency are
small, and their physical condition is in all respects comfortable. Agent Norris's report I am
advised will be forwarded to this office in a few days, and will be transmitted in time to be
embodied in your annual report.

THE SAN TEE SIOUX AGENCY.

This agency has been established within the northern superintendency since the rendition
of my last annual report. The Indians who constitute the tribe known as the Santees are the
Sisse'tons, Wahpetons, Medewahkantons, the "people- of the leaf," and the Wabpakootas,
numbering in all about 1,350 souls. They were removed from the State of Minnesota, sub-
sequent to the Indian massacre in that State, and located at Crow creek, on the east bank of

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCY. 213

the Missouri river, in the Territory of Dakota, (in connection with the Winnebagoes,) under
the charge of late Agent Balcombe. The Winnebagoes left Crow creek more than two years
since, but the Santees remained at that agency until April of the present year, when they
were removed, by order of the honorable Secretary of the Interior, to the mouth of the Niobrara
river, in Nebraska, where they were established on a reservation previously set apart for their
use and occupancy, embracing four civil townships of land. The reasons which governed
the department in ordering the removal of this tribe were briefly as follows : At Crow creek
the soil is wholly unproductive, and while the tribe has remained at that agency it has been
necessary to purchase and transport every pound of beef, flour, corn, &c., which they have
consumed. Situated as it was, remote from any point where supplies could be purchased,
the cost of transportation was an enormous burden upon the government a burden which
it was believed could be materially lightened by removing the tribe further south, and nearer
to the base of supplies. Again, it was believed that at Niobrara a large portion of the grain
necessary to their subsistence could be raised as soon as their lands could be placed in a con-
dition to'be cultivated. A small settlement has existed at Niobrara for more than eight
years past, and the farmers of that locality have rarely failed to raise a fair crop of wheat,
corn, and potatoes. The crop of the present season is a fair average with the production of
northern Nebraska.

Since the removal of the tribe from Crow creek, some two hundred and forty men belong-
ing to it, who have been held as prisoners of war by the government at Davenport and
Rock Island, in consequence of their participation in the terrible massacre of Minnesota,
have been removed by order of the War Department, and are now at the agency. At Crow
creek, in consequence of the distance of that agency from the point where supplies could be
obtained, and the resulting heavy expense of transportation, the entire annual appropriation
for the subsistence of this tribe was exhausted. This appropriation was $100,000. Since
their removal, (after the addition of the two hundred and forty men above referred to,) the
expenses necessarily incurred for their subsistence are so far reduced that it is believed at
least twenty thousand dollars may be saved annually, to be devoted to the improvement of
their reservation, the purchase of agricultural implements, &c. After one thousand acres of
laud shall have been placed under cultivation, it is confidently believed that the tribe will
be able to raise nearly if not quite grain enough for their subsistence. The wisdom and
economy, therefore, of their removal, cannot be questioned.

Several parties at Niobrara own improved farms within the limits of the reservation set
apart for the Santee Sioux. As a matter of justice to these parties, who very naturally object
to being compelled to reside in such close proximity to the Indians, as well as from many
considerations which apply to the future welfare of the Indians, I respectfully urge upon the
department the propriety of providing at the earliest practicable period, for the purchase of
these lands at a fair appraised value.

Arrangements have been made, pursuant to instructions from the department, to provide
temporary shelter houses for this tribe, in order to shield them froai the rigors of the approach-
ing winter. The expense necessary to construct these temporary buildings will be trifling,
as the reservation is well supplied with timber, and I have directed the agent to erect the
buildings of round logs, to be covered with poles, hay, and earth, and to construct them in
close proximity to the timber, with the view not only of saving expense in transporting the
logs, but of placing the Indians in a position where they can supply themselves with fuel
without the expense of hauling.

In obedience to orders from the honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs, I have purchased
the necessary subsistence for this tribe in open market, until such time as it could be procured
by contract upon advertisement. A public letting of this subsistence will take place at my
office on the 13th instant. It has been advertised for thirty days in two daily newspapers of
this city, and in one weekly newspaper at Sioux City, Iowa.

Every arrangement has therefore been made consistent with the means at the disposal of
the department, for the subsistence and comfort of this tribe. Agent Stone has failed, up to
the present date, to render his annual report, but I am advised that it will be received at this
office in time for transmittal to Washington during the present week.

Trusting that this review of the operations of the past year within this superintendency
will be satisfactory, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. B. TAYLOR, Sup't Indian A fairs.

Hon. D. N. COOLEY,

Commissioner Indian A fairs.

No. 90.

WINNER AGO AGENCY, N. T., August 20, 1866.

SIR: In accordance with the regulations of the Indian department, I have the honor
to submit this my first annual report of the Winnebago Indians, located on the Missouri
river, and now under my charge.

I received my appointment about the middle of September, 1865 ; was ordered to Wash'

214 NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCE ,

ington, D. C., for instructions previous to proceeding to my agency. I ^arrived at the
Omaha agency, where the Winnebagoes were at that time, on the 8th of October, received
the public property of the agency from Major St. A. D. Balcombe, late United States Indian
agent, on the 15th of November, 1865.

The Winnebagoes were being subsisted at the Omaha agency at the time of my appoint-
ment, and continued to be until the middle of May following. As I was ordered to Wash-
ington, D. C., soon after my arrival at the agency, and did not return until April, I immedi-
ately made preparations to move the Winnebagoes on to'their own reservation, and accom-
plished the work by the middle of May, at which time I took the entire charge of them.
Colonel Furnas, United States Indian agent for the Omahas, acted as assistant agent during
my absence.

When I took charge of the Winnebagoes I found them in a sad condition. They had been
for three years without comfortable homes, having been removed from their comfortable
homes and the graves of their fathers in Minnesota, against their will, to suffer privations
and death, for no crime save that of being, like Naboth, the possessors of a well cultivated
vineyard, which their more powerful neighbors coveted; but I w r ill not pain your ear with a
repetition of their trials and sufferings, which is so truthfully described in Superintendent
Taylor's special report, dated Omaha agency, August 23, 1865, and found on page 407, in
Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1865. As near as I can learn, the tribe, has
diminished some four or five hundred since they left Minnesota.

As everything was new, there being no buildings on the reserve, and no improvements,
save some three hundred acres which my predecessor had broken, I found it a task to com-
mence so late in the season and accomplish what I desired to the present season, and should
have failed had not the honorable Commissioner wisely given me permission to take assist-
ance with me from the East.

I respectfully refer you to the accompanying report of my fanner to inform you what has
been done in his branch of the business of the agency. The health of the tribe is not as
good as I could wish, and yet as good as can be 'expected when we remember their exposure
and sufferings during the last three years. There are numerous cases of fever and ague
among them, and my calls for medical aid are so numerous and oft-repeated to relieve the
varied ills to which the flesh is heir, that I am constrained to ask the department if we cannot
have a physician to attend to the numbers of sick, not only among the Indians, but in our
own families.

I am happy to report the tribe as improving in their condition. In accordance with
instructions, I have provided them with white man's clothing, which greatly improves their
general appearance. They manifest a good degree of industry, and with a suitable number
of overseers, will do as much work as an equal number of white laborers.

One of the great wants of the Winnebagoes to-day is useful employment, which would
raise them exceedingly in a moral, as well as temporal point of view, as idleness is the
mother of vice.

Another, and the greatest want of the tribe is educational privileges. I believe every
Winnebago child could be taught to speak and read the English language, and by thus
knowing how to work with head and hands, and having work provided them, they will rise
rapidly in the scale of civilization.

Although the poor Indians have been accused of being the whiskey drinkers of the land,
I think there is less liquor drank among the Winnebagoes than among an equal number of
whites.

There has returned to the tribe, wilhin the past few weeks, about one hundred soldiers,
who have served with credit to themselves and to their tribe in the defence of their country.

I consider the Winnebagoes one of the best tribes of Indians in the country, and, with
proper treatment, they will soon become a self-sustaining, prosperous, and happy people.

Our agency is a new one, consequently everything is in an embryo state ; still we venture
the assertion that we can show improvements that would do credit to older agencies.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

Your obedient servant,

CHAS. MATHEWSON,

United States Indian Agent.

Colonel E. B. TAYLOR,

Sup't Indian Affairs, Omaha City, Nebraska Territory.

No. 91. ,

OMAHA INDIAN AGENCY, August 1, I860.

SIR : I have the honor to submit this my third annual report of the condition and progress
of affairs of the Omaha Indian agency.

I flatter myself that the facts show a decided improvement among the Omahas within the
past year in almost every respect. At the date of this report crops, of course, are not out of

NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENCT. 215

danger. Taking all things into consideration, however, corn, -wheat, oats, potatoes, vines,
roots, &c., bid fair to yield a satisfactory return for the labor bestowed. The spring was un-
favorable, wet, backward, and cold. The cut-worms this season were very destructive.
Wheat and oats were never better in this country. For two months past we have had extreme
drought, which has retarded seriously the late crops. Small grain is out of the way. The
following is a statement of the farm operations the present season:

Acres planted. Bushels. Value.

Corn 1,250 62,500 $25,00000

Wheat 50 1,250 1,37500

Oats 20 1,000 70000

Potatoes 45 4,500 2,25000

Beets, carrots, and turnips 5 3, 400 1 , 700 00'

Beans 20 1 , 000 1 , 500 00

Pumpkins, melons, and squashes 40 1 , 000 00

Number of tons of hay cut 400 1,60000

35,725 00

While it will be seen from the above that we have 485 acres more under cultivation this
season than last, the total value falls short. This is accounted for by the fact that prices are
far below what they were last year. For instance, corn last year at this time was worth $1 50
per bushel, and other products in proportion. It is now selling for forty and fifty cents.
The Omahas sold this spring of their last year's surplus corn not less than 10,000 bushels.
It is hoped their surplus of this year's crop will be at least double that.
The population of the tribe this year seems to be less, than last, VJK :

Males 543

Females 454

Total.. 997

Last year the population was 1 , 002.

The wealth of the tribe, like all others, and as before stated, is difficult to arrive at. It con-
sists chiefly among the Omahas in horses. When statistics are asked for, the Indian thinks
"something's up," and equivocates or declines giving in. The following is as near as can
be ascertained :

Number. Value.

Horses.. 1,250 $62,50000

Cattle < 175 5,250 00

Swine . . 100 500 00

Total 68,250 00

The fur trade the past year amounted to between $5,000 and $6,000. This cannot be given
exactly, as the Indians go off the reservation to sell nearly all their furs. The reason of this
is, the farmers in this vicinity, who want furs for their own use, will give in produce double
what any trader or merchant will. The Indian is quick to see this advantage and avail him-
self of it. The licensed trader on this reservation purchased but $450 worth of furs from the
Omahas the past year.

The school is in a more prosperous condition than ever before, and there appears to be an
increased interest manifested among the tribe in this respect. There are now

Male scholars 42

Female scholars ' 19

Total 61

Male teacher 1

Female teacher 1

Total 2

This shows an increase in the scholarship this year over last of sixteen. The school is
under the charge of the Old School Presbyterian Board of Missions. For the support of the
school the tribe contributes $3,750 annually, to which the board added last year $1,400. For
further details relative to the school I refer you to the report of Superintendent O. S. Lee, a
copy of which is herewith forwarded and made a part of my annual report.

Allow me to digress by expressing an opinion upon the question of education among the-

216 NORTHERN SUPERINTENDENT.

Indians an opinion based upon years of experience and close observation. There must be
a different policy adopted by the government, or the Christian denominations who are exert-
ing themselves to educate this unfortunate race, or the desired object will never be accom-
plished. For instance, to illustrate, there are 396 Omaha children ; provisions are made for
the education of but fifty. Sixty-one, the number now in attendance, is the highest yet reached.
To educate and return to the tribe to exercise civilizing influences is the design. The civil-
izing influence of so limited a number is entirely overwhelmed and destroyed by the super-
stitions and natural aversions of the rest of the tribe, and thus money and time thrown away.
To become successful the system of education must be universal, and all of the children be-
tween certain ages required to attend school a given number of months in each year.

There is being made a decided improvement in the manner of living among the Omahas.
Both male and female are more disposed to adopt the style of clothing used by the whites.
It is also observable that more men and less women work in the fields and perform other
manual labor. There is also an improvement in the character of their dwellings. There are
now fifty-one frame and sawed log dwellings, and twenty-two mud lodges or huts.

The Omahas for the past year, as before, have been quiet and well disposed. I referred in
my first annual report to the evidence of loyalty, that many had gone into the army. With-
in the past month those surviving the perils of an army life have been honorably mustered out
of the service and returned to the reservation. They bring with them the highest testimo-
nials both as to bravery and general efficiency.

The Omahas are extremely anxious to have the stipulations of the recent treaty carried into
effect, particularly as regards the survey and allotment of their lands in several ty, and making
agricultural improvements for the benefit of heads of families. It has required much time
and labor to convince the tribe of the benefits they will derive by such an arrangement, and
I earnestly recommend that it be consummated without further delay. Had operations look-
ing to this end been commenced the past spring, as they expected, the annual summer hunt
would have been abandoned.

Permit me again to call the attention of the department to still great prevailing dissatis-
faction among the Omahas in consequence, as they