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2
Eleventh Census: 1890.
Eastern Cherokees,
;irTO ivi B.,,ro«inj Jt n-ini.-nj & EASTERN BAND OF NORTH CAROLINA CHEROKEES.
Principal Chief, NIMROD J, SMITH, ■■ Cha-la-di-hih," "Charles the Killer.'
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ELEVENTH CENSUS OF THE UNITED STATES.
ROBERT P. PORTER,
SUPERINTENDENT.
Extra Census Bulletin
INDIANS,
EASTEEI BAND OF CHEROKEES
OF intorth: c^ROLiisr^.
BY THOMAS DONALDSON,
EXPERT bPKCIAL AGENT.
WASHINGTON, D. C.
UNITED STATES CENSUS FEINTING OFFICE.
1892.
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D. OF a
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CONTENTS,
Introduction, by Thomas Donaldson, expert special ageut 7-9
General remarks on the Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina and Eastern Cherokees 7
Enumeration in 1890 8
Statistics of schools 9
Eastekn Band of Cherokees of North Carolina, by General Henry B. Caerington 11-21
General remarks 11-13
Clierokee industries 24
Religion and morals 14 15
Education ir>-17
Common schools j5
Clierokee training school ]g j7
Historical outline J7 ^g
Government and politics lH-20
Incorporation of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in 1889 21
Soldiei-s „ 21
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
Bird town schoolhouse 12
Bojs' dormitory, Eastern Cherokee Training School 16
Bryson City courthouse, post office of agency 9
Chapel oak, Birdtovvn 12
Closed mill 18
Councilmen of 1891, Eastern Baud of Cherokees: Kev. John Jackson, Morgan Calhoun, William Ta-la-lah, Wesley Ciow 20
Donaldson ridge and gap, from Spray ridge, 1891 9
Eastern Cherokee Training School "Home" 15
Eastern Cherokee Training School, United States Indian agency, and Mount Noble, from Spray ridge 9
Indian fronting 13
James Blythe, son-in-law of Chief Smith, United States Indian agent, and Sampson George, Cherokee Indian 18
Jesse Keed, chairman of council, and Andy Standing Deer, councilman 9
Lumbermen, 1891 9
Mulberry tree band stand. Eastern Cherokee agency 18
Nimrod J. Smith, "Cha-la-di-hih", "Charles the Killer", principal chief 1
Ocona Lulta valley 12
Old Big Witch at home 13
Open mill 18
Plowing with 1 steer 18
Eattlesnake peak, above the clouds 18
Soco schoolhouse 13
The Old Mission house 13
Valley of the Soco : 18
Wesley Crow (councilman), at home 12
Yo-na Caley, "Climbing Bear " (councilman), and 3 daughters, and grandson of Chief Smith 18
LIST OF MAPS.
Chief location and lands of the Eastern Band of Cherokees 7
Qualla Indian reserve (boundary), surveyed by M. S. Temple, 1875-1876 11
3
LETTER OE TRANSMITTAL.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
Census Office,
Washington, D. C, February 25, 1892.
Sir:
Tlie statistics and condition of the Indians given in tlie present bulletin, as provided in tlie census law of
March 1, 1889, show the status of the Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina, with incidental mention of
the Eastern Cherokees. These Indians are taxed, have developed into good citizens of the United States, and
vote in North Carolina. They are almost entirely self-supporting, receiving only a small allowance from tlie United
States for educational purposes. A few mechanics are found among them, but their chief occupations are farming,
lumbering, and day labor. They are a moral, law-abiding, and industrious people, and the censuses from 1850 to
1890 show them to be increasing. The band, which has been incorporated by the general assembly of North
Carolina as The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, occupies the tract known as the Qualla boundary. The other
Eastern Cherokees mentioned reside in the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, and are citizens of the United
States and of the states named.
The bulletin was prepared by IMr. Thomas Donaldson, expert special agent of the Census Office, and the
report on the condition of these Indians was made under his direction by General Henry B. Caerinoton, United
States army (retired), special agent for the collection of statistics of the Eastern Band of Cherokees.
Very respectfully,
ROBERT P. PORTER,
SupcriidenikiU of Censjis.
The Secretary of the Interior.
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STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
BY THOMAS DONALDSON.
EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES OF NORTH CAROLINA AND EASTERN CHEROKEES.
(INDIANS TAXED.)
The report on the condition of the Eastern Baud of Cherokees of southwestern North Carolina in 1890, with
incidental mention of the Eastern Cherokees, shows that this band of Indians, with very little if any care or
attention on the part of the national government, has become self-sustaining and self-reliant, and that the members
thereof have developed into good citizens of the United States and the state of North Carolina. While nominally
a tribe or band, so incorporated for certain purposes, with a chief and a council, these Indians are in fact as truly
citizens of North Carolina as are any people within the borders of the state. They have never been considered
reservation Indians, and therefore the Indian policy of the United States has not been applied to them. There is a
United States Indian agent among them, who is a member of the band, as many of his predecessors have been. His
duties are nominal, and his salary is $800 per year.
The different censuses show the Eastern Cherokees in North Carolina to be increasing in number. In 1850, when
they were in Haywood county, they numbered 710 ; in 1890. still residing in the same localitj', they are returned as
numbering 1,.520. In 1860, 1870, and 1880 they were enumerated as part of the population of the state.
The Eastern Band of Cherokees is now a body politic and corporate under the name, style, and title of The
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, with all the rights, privileges, franchises, and powers incident and belonging to
corporations under the laws of the state of North Carolina. The band was incorporated by the general assembly of
North Carolina March 11, 1889. (Laws of North Carolina, 1889, chapter 211, page 889.)
The Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina, 1,520 in number, reside on lands in portions of Cherokee,
Graham, Jackson, and Swain counties, in southwestern North Carolina. There is no reservation, but the tract
occupied by these Indians, known as the Qualla boundary, contains about 65,000 acres, and is held in fee by the
Eastern Band of Cherokees and tlie Eastern Cherokees once resident of this region, but who removed west, and
are now one of the Five Civilized Tribes, occupying lands in Indian territory.
These Indians, although many are full-blood Cherokees, are citizens of the United States and are voters and
taxpayers in North Carolina. Thej' are Indians taxed, and are classed as enterprising, moral, and law-abiding.
They are almost entirely self-supporting, receiving only a small allowance from the United States for educational
purposes.
Farming, lumbering, and daj' labor are the chief occupations of these Indians, but some few mechanics are
found among them. Many of them hire out as farmers and laborers. They have a written language, and while in
many respects are progressive, seeking the knowledge best suited to their present condition, still they preserve some
traditions and customs of their old Indian life.
The Indian farming tracts are small, as will be seen by the map.
THE EASTERN CHEROKEES.
The total number of Eastern Cherokees in 1890 is given as 2,885. Of this number 1,520 live in North Carolina,
and are known as the Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina; 9.36 are said to live in Georgia, 318 in
Tennessee, and 111 in Alabama. In 1884 the number in North Carolina was given as 1,881. Since 1884 some of
this band have moved into adjoining states and others have joined the Cherokees in Indian territory. The few
living in Kentuckj^, Virginia, and other states have become incorporated into the white population.
The economic and social condition of the Eastern Cherokees residing in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee is
about the same as of those residing in North Carolina. They are entirely self-supporting and are citizens of the
several states wherein they reside.
The Eastern Cherokees do not now receive any portion of the annuities given yearly to the Cherokees of Indian
territory, the Supreme Court of the United States having decided that they were not entitled to participate in them.
The Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina receive only a small sum annuallj' from the United States in aid
of their schools.
7
8 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
In 1884 lion. Iliram Price, Commissioner of Indian Aflairs, in his annual report, mentioned the several censuses
of the Eastern Cherokees, as follows : (a)
In September, 1882, Joseph G. Hester was appointed agent to take a census and make a list of all the Cherokee Indians residing east of
the Mississippi ri\er, as required by an act approved August 7, 1882. To assist him in this work I furnished him with copies of 4 previous
lists of this people: one taken by J. C. Mnllay as early as 1848, containing the names of all who resided in the state of North Carolina at the
time of the treaty of 183G, and who had not removed west, and one taken by D. W. Siler in pursuance of an act approved September 30, 1850,
which, it is believed, includes all of these people then residing in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. This roll was used by
Alfred Chapman, acting for this deiiartment, in the following year to make a per capita payment to the Eastern Cherokees, and in doing so he
found it necessiiry from evidence presented to make a few changes, so that a copy of the pay roll matle by )iim was also given to the agent,
together with a copy of a list of these people taken by S. H. Swetland under an act appro\ed July 27, 1868.
In consequence of the wide distribution of tliese Indians and their descendants over mauy states, a great luajority living in localities
remote from all usual routes of travel, the task proved to be of much greater magnitude, difficulty, and expense than was at lii-st anticipated,
and it was not until the 5th of last January that it could be completed and the list submitted. It contains the names of 1,881 members
residing in North Carolina, 758 in. Georgia, 213 in Tennessee, 71 in Alabama, 11 in Kentucky, 8 in New Jei-sey, 5 in Virginia, 3 each in
Kansas (at present) and Sonth Carolina, and 1 each in California, Colorado, and Illinois (at present), making a total membership of 2,956.
It gives the English and Indian names (when they have botli), the age and sex of each, and the residence or ijost-office address of every
family or single pei-son, together with the relationship of each member of a family to the liead thereof. Reference is also made to the numbere
opposite their names or the names of their ancestoi-s on the previous rolls above noted that they may be identified there, and there are such
marginal references and explanatory notes as special cases seemed to require. Thus, no person's name was enrolled on this list whose name or
the name of whose ancestor docs not ai)pear on some one of the previous lists, and all except 47 on the previous lists are accounted for, either
as dead, as ha\ing gone west to reside with the nation in the Indian territory, or by enrollment as now residing east of the Slississippi river.
These 47 jiersons, whose whereabouts could not be a.scertained, are believed by their friends and relatives to ha\e either died, gone w est, or to be
now known by diflerent names from those under which they were previously enrolled. A list of the 47 names Ls given with this cen.sus.
^VIlile the agent was engaged in the work various persons presented themselves to him, claiming to he Eastern Cherokees or their descendants,
whom he declined to enroll, not believing the evidence they submitted sullicient to sustain their claims. He files with the census a list of
their names, accompanied by all the papei-s and information he had received or could obtain in reference to them, which may be useful iu
c;ise any of those so rejected in future claim that they have been wronged.
The census list, together with all e\ idence and information available pertaining to it, was laid before a council of the Eastern Cherokees
at their recjuest (due notice liaving been gi\en to the Cherokee nation in the Indian territory to be present by delegates if they so desired),
and a.'icr having been carefully scrutinized by said council was fully approved by them. A certificate signed by the council to that eft'ect
accompanies the list, which list, after ha\iug been carefully examined and compared with the previons rolls in this office, was, on my
recommendation, approved by the department on the 4th of last February.
ENUMERATION: 1800.
The enumeration for the census of 1890 of the Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina was made hy the
regular enumerators for the state of North Carolina. The United States Indian agent, James Blythe, a Cherokee
(Dis-qua-ni, Chestnut Bread), furnishes the following data collected during personal visitations:
The total number of Cherokees is 1,520 : males, 774 ; females, 746. All wear citizens' clothing. 365 over the
age of 20 and 300 under the age of 20 can read, and 180 under the age of 20 can write English. This latter fact is
attributable to the efficient school system. 620 Indians can use English enough for ordinarj' intercourse. The
number of children of school age is given as 403, and there are .school accommodations for 275. There are 5
schoolhouses owned by the Indians, valued at $600. They also own and occupy 256 one-story log or block houses.
Health. — 1 case of chronic paralysis and 2 of pneumonia are reported. 3 deaf and dumb, 2 blind, and 2 idiotic
persons are also mentioned. The number of childi-en under the age of 1 year is given as 38, but the number and
causes of death must be supplied from the regular enumeration.
White intruders. — Agent Blythe, who has had the special co-operation of the United States authorities in
investigating violations of the laws relating to the lands of the Indians, reports 56 white families as unlawfully
upon the tract, occupj'ing and farming 6,000 acres, most of it good laud.
L.vxD. — About 20,000 acres of land are classed as arable or tillable and 30,000 acres as only fit for grazing.
The remainder, consisting of many mountain tracts, is valuable for timber.
The Indians cultivated 2,400 acres diu'ing the year, which, with the 6,000 acres unlawfully occupied and
cultivated by white people, make 8,400 acres cultivated. The description of this land, together with the maps, is
given elsewhere. 500 acres were broken during the year and 3,000 acres are fenced. 1,000 rods of fencing were
built or rebuilt during the year. Special reference is made to this careful fencing.
Crops. — Crops of the value of -33,859.50 were raised during the year, as follows : wheat, oUO bushels, S300 : oats,
125 bushels, S62.50 ; barley and rye, 65 bushels, $32; corn, 6,000 bushels, S3,000 ; potatoes, 400 bushels, $200;
turnips, 150 bushels, S15 ; onions, 50 bushels, §25 ; beans, 300 bushels, $225.
Stock.— Horses, 38, $1,130 ; mules, 2, $150 ; cattle, 210, $2,420 ; swine, 300, $900 ; sheep, 160, $480 ; fowls, 1,800
$180.
a The Eastern Ckerukccs include lliosc who are now known as the Eastern Band ol' Clierokces of Noitli Cuiolinii.
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EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES OF NORTH CAROLINA.
The average earnings of the male Indians above 21 years of age is about $106 per year ; this includes
lumbermen. The wealth of the band is placed at an average of $217.25 per capita. Wages are very low in the
mountains of North Carolina, but the cost of living is small, and the Cherokees earn as much and live as well as
the white people about them.
The report of Special Agent Carrington is mainly as to the condition of these Indians in the census year 1890.
SCHOOLS.
The training school for the Eastern Band of Cherokees is also a boarding school, with 1 white teachers. It
has had 84 boarders, the average daUy attendance being 80, and 24 day scholars. The full details of the operation
of this school are given elsewhere. The total cost in maintaining this school for 1890 was $11,264.47, expended as
follows: for salaries of teachers and employes, $3,3.30; all other expenses, $7,914.47. The entire expense is paid
by the United States from a special appropriation for the Eastern Cherokee training school. The buildings occupied,
11 in number, and also a barn, are owned jointly by the United States and the Cherokees. The school, while a
government school, is under the charge of members of the Society of Friends, and its establishment and maintenance
by the United States is in the nature of a gratuity.
The school statistics of the 3 Cherokee schools for the year 1890 are as follows :
STATISTICS OF CHEROKEE INDIAN SCHOOLS.
SCHOOLS.
Location.
TEACHERS.
RACES.
School
accom-
moda-
tions.
Largest
attend-
ance at
one
time.
SCHOLARS ATTEND-
ING 1 MONTH OR
UORE DURING YEAR,
SCHOLARS
BETWEEN 6
AND 18
YEARS.
Over 18
years
Average
age of
-
Total.
Male.
Fe-
male.
Total.
In-
dian.
White.
Total.
Male.
Fe-
male.
Male.
Fe-
male.
of age.
puinls.
Total
5
i
1
5
2
1
2
1
4
145
136
136
68
68
66
68
2
[
Big Co%'e 1 10 miles northeast
2
1
•>
2
1
1
1
1
2
60
30
55
54
30
52
M
30
52
28
13
27
26
17
25
28
26
9.019
11.118
Bird town
of agency.
2.11 miles south-
west of agency.
4 milpR AniithpAHl,
1
25 1 25
1 of agency.
Number
of
months
open.
Average
attend-
ance.
LAKGEST AVERAGE ATTENDANCE
DURING ANY MONTH.
! j
NDMBER AND KIND
OF BUILDINGS.
(O)
COST.
SCHOOLS.
January.
October.
December.
1
Log or
block.
Block,
weather-
x>arded.
Total.
1
1
Maintain-
ing schools.
Salaries of
teachers.
i
1
100
100
100
2
1
?2,103.04
$1,022.02
$910.00
Big Cove
7
7
7
26.429
16.429
30.143
36
30
36
30
34
36
30
M
1 .
819.84
466.92
816 28
Birdtown
1
233 46 210 00
23.46
1
1
1
a The Cherokees own 5 schoolhouses, but only 3 are occupied.
The school buildings are all owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokees, and the expenses of the schools are
paid with the interest from the Eastern Band of Cherokees' education fund, held in the treasury of the United
ILLUSTRATIONS.
The illustrations herein are from photographs made by General Henry B. Carrington, and show that the
Eastern Cherokees, notwithstanding they are self-sustaining and good citizens, after more than 200 years of contact
with white people retain the physical features of their race.
E. C— 2
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EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES OF NORTH CAROLINA.
BY HENEY B. CAERINGTON.
No section of country in the United States combines a greater variety of inland scenery than that occupied
by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, embracing portions of the counties of Cherokee, Graham, Jackson, and
Swain, in southwestern North Carolina. Nestled between the Blue Ridge on the east and the Smoky mountains
on the west, partially sheltered by sharp ranges and lofty peaks exceeding Mount Washington in height, and more
than 2,000 feet above sea level, the " Qualla boundary", as it is styled, represents the home locality of 1,520
Cherokee Indians. Swift streams, which abound in speckled trout, wind about all points of the compass for
their final outlet, leaving at almost every change of course some fringing skirt of mellow land well suited for farm
or garden purposes. Choice timber, ample for all uses for many years, is found throughout the entire region.
Strawberries, blackberries, grapes, and wild fruits are abundant in their season, and the peach and apple
generously respond to moderate care. The corn crop rarely fails. The potato is prolific in bearing and excellent
in quality. Wheat, rye, and oats are cultivated with moderate returns, but suflBcient, as a rule, for the population,
while melons and all garden products do well. Creeks and small streams and springs are so numerous and ample
in How that the simplest diversion of the water is sufficient for the irrigation of the most reluctaut soil. The hay
crop is limited by the small meadow area, so that corn husks are the main reliance for stock fodder. The almost
universal use of a single steer for plowing and general farming purposes is because of the character of the land,
which is made up of steep hillsides and narrow valley strips. Agricultural implements are of the simplest kind.
As a suggestive fact, it is to be noticed that the fences are well built and well maintained throughout the farming
tracts, even where the most primitive methods of farming prevail. The principal roads, with easy grades, good
drainage, and free from abrupt or daugerous inclines, skirt mountain sides or follow water courses. Single trails,
that often diverge to cabins which lie among the mountains or on their slopes, are only accessible on foot or in the
saddle ; but the chief thoroughfares show good judgment and skillful engineering to meet the difficulties which had
to be surmounted. Some of these roads are better withi^i the Indian district than over the approaches to or through
the settlements of the white people. The houses are nearly all " block houses ", a few only being log houses, rarely
having a second room, unless it be an attic room for sleeping or storage purposes, and are without windows.
Corncribs, stock sheds, and tobacco barns are of material similar to the houses, except where, as with corncribs,
logs are used for better ventilation. Hinges are mainly of wood, and the stairs are constructed of pin poles, ladders,
or inclined, slatted planks. Fireplaces are often supplemented by stoves, but there is at all times an abundance of
pine knots and similar fuel for light, heat, and cooking. The climate is invigorating and healthful, but cases of
pneumonia are frequent, due to the rapid changes of temperature.
Surveys were made in 1875-1876 by M. S. Temple under the auspices of the United States land office. These were
embodied in a map p>iblished as " Map of the Qualla Indian reserve ''. The term " reserve " is a misnomer, as the
lands so described were purchased for or by the Indians, and were not in any sense "reserved" for them by the
United States. The map, however, is recognized by the federal courts in the adjudication of the conflicting claims
of Indian and white settlers as a general basis of demarcation, but not as an exact definition of specific titles. The
lines, except those surrounding the entire tract, are so entangled as to form a labyrinth of conflicting courses, which
are inexplicable by surveyor, court, or jury. The Temple survey located " entries ". These, successively imposed,
took slight notice of previous entries or, indeed, of occupation. The state of North Carolina received its fees and
issued papers with little regard for records or files, a warning to those in search of permits to occupy lands within
the country so inviting to incomers. A copy of the Temple map giving the numbers, as from time to time designated,
is herewith furnished as a basis for the topographical map, which gives the present roads and the general occupation
of the valleys. It also includes county lines. A new survey, already initiated, will be essential to the settlement
of existing conflicts of title and any exact definition of title hereafter. Reference will be made elsewhere to the
issues involved in the pending survey.
A marginal map, on a reduced scale, indicates the relations of the 11 southwestern counties of North Carolina
to each other and to the adjoining states of Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, in each of which states the
Cherokees once had lands and homes.
11
12 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
Tlie practical ceuter of interest and divergence in a visitation or description of the Cherokee country is found at
tlie site of the Ignited States agency and t)ie adjoining training scliool at Cherokee, formerly known as Yellow hill.
It is about 6 miles from Whittier, tlie nearest railroad and telegrapli station, and 10 miles from Bryson city, formerly
Charleston, the county seat of Swain county. The Ocona Lufta riv(!r, which joins the Tuckasegee, a tributary
of the Tennessee, less than 2 miles below Whittier, flows directly south along the school grounds, receiving its two
principal tributary sources 2.5 miles to the north. The Bradley fork enters through white settlements near the
house once the home of Abraham Enloe, which, by an absurd fiction, is associated with the old home of Abraham
Lincoln. Ravens fork from the northeast is an impetuous stream, at times a torrent, flowing in its upper course
through narrow valleys, coves or pockets, whose soil is rich, deep, and black, like that of the bottoms of the Miami
and Scioto in Ohio. Ou Straight fork of this creek, "at the very verge of the line of the Cathcart survey, in the last
Indian house in that direction, lives Cliitolski (Falling Blossom), a Cherokee of means and influence, whose name
is expressive of the condition of the corn when the pollen, dropping into the silk, is supposed to bear some part in
fertilizing the ear. His home is a new and spacious block house, very comfortable, with the usual piazza, in front.
Upon ac(!epting an invitation to dine, the water was turned upon the wheel of the mill close by, and fresh meal was
soon served in the shape of a hot " corndodger". " Long sweetening " of honey or molasses gave a peculiar sanction
to a cup of good coffee, and this, with bacon and gi-eens, supplemented with peaches grown on the farm, made a
most excellent meal. This mill is one of many, alike simple in construction, where neighbors deposit their toll of
gi'ain, turn on the water, and grind their own meal. Some of these mills have onlj' a slight roof over the hopper and
are open at the sides. Chitolski's house is said to be one of the best in the country, and very few houses of the white
people upon Indian lands or lands adjacent approach it in comfort. Some large peach trees were loaded with safely
developed fruit, and a vigorous young orchard, carefully planted, gave promise of as prosperous a future as those of
advanced growth, which bore the pledges of a good autumn product. A horse, several heifers, and chickens and ducks
imparted life to the scene, and the host and his wife, whose grown children have sought independent homes, are
j>reparing, with every indication of success, to spend their latter years in contentment and comfort. Chitolski is
building a new path out from his snug valley "wide enough for wheels", so that visitors will not be compelled to
unhitch and mount harnessed horses to share his hosj)itality. Specimens of quartz and varieties of spar having
susiiicious j^ellow specs were produced and information sought as to their value. The washings of the streams give
"gold color", and some claim that they can net $1 a day when the water is low.
The whole trip to Big Cove, as this region is named, is attractive from its rich soil, its well-worked hillsides, its
fertile coves between the mountain spurs, its excellent fences, and the universal indications of well-applied industry.
A sudden turn in the road brought in sight a happy boy fishing. He had succeeded in landing two fine speckled trout.
The supply of trout at the proper season is abundant for table use. Eastward from the agency, crossing the Ocona
Lufta river, below a substantial, elevated foot bridge over the southern verge of Spray ridge and at the foot of
Mount Hobbs, the panorama of the Soco valley, with its bright vista, is brought suddenly into view. Mountain
spurs, carefully-fenced gardens, well-lined furrows, and gleaming streams are distributed for 10 miles, until closed
by the loftj^ Mount Dorchester, which, at the end of this valley, presents to the view an area of at least 30 miles.
Descending from this point of outlook, the valley distance is varied by careful cultivation, with wheat and rye most
conspiciuous, while several strips of neai-ly a quarter of a mile in breadth are fenced with stone and irrigated by
ditches, showing how resolutely the open spaces are utilized for substantial crops. At a distance of 5 miles the old
mission house, long since abandoned for church purposes, still atfords a popular gathering place for political and
other meetings. At one of these meetings, (hiring the enumeration, nu)re than 100 Cherokees assembled to consult
as to a change of their principal chief at the election in 1891, and to protest against any change in the management
of their admirably conducted training school. The old building, open and dilapidated in front, is furnished with
benches and desk, and the pi'oceedings at the meeting alluded to were characterized by formality and good order.
Less than 1 mile further east, across the creek, is the spacious Soco schoolhouse. Excellent desks and
accommodations gi-eatly superior to those of some schoolhouses outside the Indian lines distinguish this school, and
the building is also used for church or Sunday-school work on the Sabbath. It is a block house, well hewn, closely
jointed, and durable as well as convenient.
At the foot of Mount Dorchester, named in memory of a great admirer of the locality and warm supporter of
the training school, and not more than 3 miles distant, one open tract of 30 acres is in good cultivation, while upon
the hillsides, so steep that it seemed as if wings or ladders would be needed for tillage, several patches of from 5 to
10 a(;res were green with well-developed wheat, and on one of the slopes a "working bee" of 30 men, women, and
children were uniting their forces to help a neighbor put in his c^orn. In places where even a single steer could
not hold footing with the lightest plow a long line of willing workers hoed successive parallel seed trenches.
The Soco river enters this valley from the south at Oocomers mill, and at less than half a mile distant is the
quaint, uncovered Washington mill, well i)atr(mized by the neighbors. Here Big Witch creek joins the Soco and
by a rocky road or trail the cabin of Big Witch is reached. Big Witch is a genial, white-haired Clierokee, who, at
the age of 10.'), was prom])t to supjily a chair and jiroud to speak of his great-great-grandchildren.
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The Soco valley road is joined at the old mission liouse by a road from "Webster and Whittier. At less than a
mile a wagon trail leads to the house of Wesley Crow, a loading Cherokee councilman, who is one of tlie strongest
supporters of the public schools. Penned in by abrupt mountains, at the head of one of the forks of Shoal creek,
comfortably supplied with farm conveniences, industriously tilling wheat, corn, rye, and potatoes, he points with
great satisfaction to the loom and spinning wheel on his piazza as representing the industries of the household
within. The absence of windows was no serious discomfort, as the inside comforts were all that lie deemed
desirable or necessary. He is a good representative man, steady, industrious, and interested in the welfare of the
people. He has been one of the foremost of the Cherokee council in a movement to prevent the selection of Smitli as
principal chief at the election in 1891, maintaining that only a temperate man, of good moral character, and a friend
of the pu))lic schools is fit for the place. Principal Chief Smith, a man of sufficient natural capacity to serve the
people well, has borne the opposite character of late, althougli once very prominent. South from tlie trail leading
to Crow's hovise, as soon as the Indian lauds are left, to the bridge across the Tuckasegee, at Whittier, both
houses and roads are inferior to those upon the Indian lands, and the fences are poor. Immediately upon
crossing the ford below the agency, and without ascending the summit that overlooks Soco valley, a road leads
under the ridge, along the Ocona Lufta river, past the comfortable house and well-arranged barns of Vice Principal
Chief John Going Welcli, until it crosses Slioal creek, just above its union with the river. It then bears away,
past the old agency headquarters, the deserted trading house of Thomas, past the residence of Eev. John Bird, a
venerable, retired missionary, who long labored successfully among tlie Ciierokees, and is still enthusiastic in their
welfare, past the old site marked " Qualla " on the map, and leads off to Webster, the county town of Jackson
county, 14 miles distant. A second road from the Soco valley joins it at the old agency, where tlie broad, fertile
tract of Euloe receives full sunlight and well repays culture. The road from the old mission also joins the Webster
road near Qualla, and then turns southwest to Whittier. At the ford below the agency the Ocona Lufta river
suddenly turns eastward for a short distance, tlien as abruptly soutliward and westward, almost encircling Donaldson
ridge, which faces the agencj'. Without crossing the ford, but passing directly under tliis ridge, the sliortest road for
Wliittier gradually rises, crossing the foot of Mount Noble, and presents at its summit a view of a portion of the
Ocona Lufta valley, which is hardly surpassed by that of tlie Soco valley, the same principal peaks to the eastward
having part in the landscape. Tliis road descends westward, passing the old Ute Sherrill homestead and the liouse
of William P. Hyde, a mile from the agencj', where it soon rejoins the river, bearing westward toward Bryson city.
At tlie distance of 1.25 miles auotlier dilapidated church stands, and in the center of the higliway is a mammoth oak
where in midsummer the Indians gather for church and Sunday-school services in preference to the old cliurch or the
schoolhouse a little beyond. The old church is not wholly abandoned, however, the open sides seeming to be no
special objection to those who habitually live with doors open for most of the year. A few liundred yards beyond
the oak is located the Birdtown Indian sclioolliouse. Tliis also is a block house, but has been weatherboarded,
and only needs paint to give it a modern dress. The peculiar Indian fancy for suggestive names has devised one
for this unpretentious little building : an Indian boy, Willie Muttonliead, after hearing his Sunday-school teacher
read the Bible description of the pharisees, in tlie twenty-third chapter of JNIatthew, very promptly asked " if their
schoolhouse wasn't a hypocrite house ".
Less than a mile below the schoolhouse a rude road bears to tlie right, winds over and between hills near the
source of Adams creek, passes the foot of the ascent upon which the new and spacious schoolhouse for the white
people of Birdtown is located and the little Birdtown post office kept by Widow Keeler, and enters again the
%\ell-traveled road to Bryson city, about 4.5 miles from the agency, as indicated on the map. The most direct road
to Whittier leaves this Brj'son city road 3.5 miles from the agency, crosses the Ocona Lufta river and the Whittier
summit, and then descends rapidly to the valley of the Tuckasegee. The home of William Ta-lah-lah, a prominent
councilman, stands upon a hill to the right, shortlj' after passing Adams creek. All roads which border the numerous
creeks are suliject to rapid overflow in the rainy season or after heavy summer showers, and the streams become
impassable. Simple bridges of hewn logs, often of great size, and guarded by hand rails, supply pedestrians the means
of communication between the various settlements until the waters subside. In deep cuts, or where the Ocona Lufta
river is thus crossed, substantial trestles or supports have been erected on each shore and in the stream, as no single
tree would span the distance. Numerous short cuts or foot trails wind among the mountains and over very steep
divides, but all the wagon roads for general travel have been indicated upon the map and described. Wagon trails
for hauling timber to single cabins or hamlets are not infrequent.
This somewhat minute description of the map is uecessaiy for a true conception of the character of this people
and their neighborly intercourse as of one great family. Their wants are few. Thej' are peaceable, sociable, and
industrious, without marked ambition to acquire wealth, and without jealousy of their more prosperous neighbors.
14 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
CHEROIvEE INDUSTRIES.
Tlie niaiu occupation of the Ea.steni Baud of Oherokees of North Caroliua is that of farming. The acreage is
very limited iu each tract, but crops more than sufficient for home necessities are generally realized. Seed sowuig
is mainly doue by hand, because the use of machinery is impracticable on their hillside farms. Hand sowing is also
practiced among the white people upon adjoining lauds, and the growing crops indicate very sparse and unequal spread
of the seed. The mountain soil and occasional sand levels need a fertilizer in order to replace the waste of annual
tillage, but the steep declivities, where patience has secured a good planting, are often swept by storm torrents, so
thatliertilizers retain only a slight hold. It is impossible to visit the ditlerent sections without the conviction that
the people of both sexes, children included, are domestic and industrious. With the exception of blacksmithing,
some cobbling, and plain harness work, mechanical trades have few followers. The men are expert with the ax,
however, hewing out thick planks for wagon beds, and the timber of the block houses is well shaped and well fitted.
Ingenuity and skill are exhibited in pottery, but as a business it has ceased to be profitable. Plain ironwork is
done by a few, and Sololah makes a good knife, with well-tempered blades. Davis Welch, a wagon maker, runs his
forwe bellows by convenient water power. Wooden spoons, both beautiful and useful, are made from the laurel, and
there are those who can manufacture " ancient relics " as well as white men, and can at short notice produce the
" genuine old furniture of colonial times ". Baskets are also made from oak splints and the caue for household and
farm uses, but this is no longer followed as a general industry. The material for an expansive industrial development
of this people is at hand. Already, by their contact with the progressive civilization which is reconstructing society
and all external home surroundings, they are hinting that frame houses with glass windows are better fitted for
home comforts than those now in use ; but the cost of lumber and hauliug is an obstacle to the construction of this
class of houses, for little returns in money come from the small farm surplus. The oak, pine, holly, laurel, walnut,
chestnut, sourwood, service, mulberry, hemlock, spruce, and sassafras woods cost practically only the felling and
hauling, and the supply, which is abundant, will continue for years. A single sawmill established near the
government agency would soon revolutionize the building system and bring cash returns, which could be used iu the
cultivation of the freshly cleared lands. Trespassers have already commenced systematic robbery, and the federal
courts are handling the ofienders. The whole system of hitherto crude bridge making will be changed when heavy
lumber is within reach, and ready communication, almost wholly suspended during several months by high waters,
will bi-eak up the isolation of many farmers and stimulate the entire people to a higher plane of living. Access to
schools and to neighboring markets will be quickened in proportion as the secluded trails for the foot traveler or
single steer give place to good roads, which are only possible in that mountain region when bridges, well built above
hifh-water mark, l^ecome frequent. Suitable clay for the manufiicture of brick is accessible, as well as kaolin, which
is rapidly making the village of Dillsboro a beautiful and flourishing commercial center.
RELIGION AND MORALS.
The superstitions and religious extravaganzas of ancient times have almost disappeared. Lingering fancies as
to witches and witchcraft crop out from time to time among these Indians, but in uo more unreasonable forms than
among their neighbors. The church organizations are iu a languishing condition. AVhile the people as a whole are
christian in theory and no pagan element remains, the early mission enterprises among the Cherokees have not
advanced with the intelligence and physical prosperity of the people. Both Baptists and Methodists early occupied
the field, and with marked success. At present the old church buildings, indicated on the map, and one adjoining
the agency, all equally dilapidated, are uninviting and of no value in bad weather. Schoolhouses are used both
for public worship and Sunday-school gatherings, as the population is neither numerous nor rich enough to erect
and sustain independent churches. The erection by the government of a suitable building near the agency for public
meetings and use upon the Sabbath by the difl'erent denominations in turn would meet the demand and prove a
great benefit to the people. The Cherokees would conti-ibute the lumber and labor necessary for its erection.
Religious denominational jealousies and proselytism have had their part in this apparent religious declension, and
the Indians are no less susceptible to such influences than white people. At present the rules adopted for the
management of the common or district schools by Superintendent W. H. Spray, of the Cherokee training school,
who has charge of all the schools as well, are decidedly in the direction of religious and moral progress throughout
the territory. Xo teacher is employed who is not a christian man or woman, but no preference in the selection of
teachers is shown as to the dift'erent evangelical denominations of the Protestant church. There are no Catholics
among the Cherokees. The school buildings are also readily opened for religious meetings, and iu addition to
this the training school, while nominally under control of the Friends, is thoroughly catholic iu spirit and wholly
without bigotry or proselytism in its management. The attendance at this school habitually of about one-fourth
of the children of school age, where religious training forms a cardinal feature of the work, has its wholesome effect
elsewhere.
Rev. S. G. Owen, of the West North Carolina Baptist convention, preaches three times each month in some
one of the districts, receiving a salary of S500 per annum. Connected with the Bapti.st church as Indian helpers
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or ministers are John Jackson, of Graliam county, and Suate Owl, John Kamut, and Armstrong Cornsilk, of Swain
county. The contributions, as reported by Mr. Owen, average about $1 a Sabbath, which is applied to the
allowance from the Baptist convention. The communicants, widely scattered, and consequently irregular in their
attendance at church, are estimated at 100, many once active members being counted as backsliders or indifferent.
Eev. J. A. Wiggins, of the Methodist church, visits the territory once a month, and Stamford George, a Cherokee
minister, is one of the most consistent and active workers of that denomination. John Long also does ministerial
work. Kev. Mr. Bird, already referred to, and worthy of special honor for a long life of self-sacrificing toil in this
field, where he will spend his remaining years, considers a central place of worship of great importance, and, with
Mr. Owen, regards the present a fit time for increased effort to reach the Cherokee families for good. Both
denominations should increase their means of usefulness among the Cherokees, and they should receive a liberal
support. The absence of the Cherokee from the criminal courts, the uuiform observance of the marriage rite, the
character and development of the schools, and the industry of the people are signs of real progress. Evidence on
file at the Interior department shows that illegitimate births are less frequent than among the white people.
The recent determination of the leading Cherokee councilmen and citizens to make morality, a fair education, and
temperance the essential prerequisites of their candidate for principal chief at the fall election of 1891 is a true
index to the purpose of this people as to their future. There are no formal temperance organizations among the
Eastern Baud of Cherokees, but intemperance is not common. Among those who have indulged to excess the
principal chief has been the most prominent, but his influence, once paramount, has now little effect, and three-
fourths of the council of the nation are opposed to his habits and policy. He declares his purpose, however, to
reform and present a better example. Heretofore he has been a man of much pride and dignity, and he mio-ht still
do much for this people if in full accord with educational, moral, and religious progress. At the training school,
which is the center of interest, no employe is retained who is either intemperate or profane. This institution
with its many pupils and its liberal market arrangements with the Indians, exerts an elevating and wholesome
influence in all directions.
EDUCATION.
There are at present among the Eastern Band of Cherokees 3 schools of a common-school grade in addition
to the Cherokee training school, initiated liy an eminent christian scholar, Barnabas Hobbs, of Indiana, a member
of the Society of Friends. There was also a grammar school in Graham county, but it was abandoned because the
children were few and scattered and several of them attended the training school.
Big Cove school is 10 miles northeast from the agency, on Eavens fork of the Ocona Lufta river. It has
2 teachers, both males, and is sustained at a cost of $819.84. There are accommodations for 60 pupils. The largest
attendance during the year was 54, of whom 28 were males and 26 females, all between the ages of 6 and 18
years. The average age was 9.019 ; the average attendance for 1 year was 26.429 ; the highest average attendance
for 1 month, that of January, was 36.
Birdtown school is 2.11 miles southwest from the agency, with 1 male teacher and accommodations for 30
pupils, and the whole number, viz, 13 males and 17 females, all between the ages of 6 and 18, attended, their
average age being 11.118. The average attendance during 7 months was 16.429, and the highest average attendance
any one month, that of December, was 30, the full number. Schega Wella missed but 2 daj\s in 2 j'ears.
Macedonia school, on Soco creek, above the old mission house, already mentioned in connection with the
topographical outline of the Qualla boundary, is supported by the interest, payable annually, from an educational
fund held in trust by the United States for the Eastern Band of Cherokees. The 2 other schools are also maintained
from the same fund. The expense of the Macedonia school for the census year, including salaries, was $816.28.
There are accommodations at this school for 55 pupils, and the largest attendance was 52. This number, viz, 27
males and 25 females, attended more than 1 of the 7 school months during the year. Of the scholars 2 were over
18 and none were under 6 years of age, their average ages being 10.8. The average attendance for 1 year was
30.14, and the largest monthly average attendance (October) was 34. 2 teachers, 1 male and 1 female, were
employed. Stacy Johnson and Amy Johnson missed but 1 day each in 3 years.
SCHOOL STATISTICS.
Number over 20 years of age who can read 365
Number under 20 years of age who can read 300
Number under 20 yeare of age who can write English 180
Number who can speak ordinary English 620
Number who can not speak English 385
Children of school age .■ 403
School accommodations 275
The Eastern Band of Cherokees have a written language, and this furnishes the basis for a rapid development
in proportion as vigorous schools are maintained under interested and judicious instructors.
16 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
THE CHEROKEE TRAINING SCHOOL.
The Cherokee training school, establislied under the auspices of the Western Meeting of Friends of the state
of Indiana, occupies for school and farm purposes nearly 50 acres of land along the Ocona Lufta river, at the foot
of IVfount Noble, as indicated on the map. 39 acres of this land were purchased by the Friends from the heirs of
Longblanket, the Cherokee chief.
The inspiration of the enterprise from the first has been the earnest and intelligent purpose of Barnabas Hobbs
(well known as former superintendent of schools for the state of Indiana, and well known also in Europe for his
labors in behalf of general peace) to combine moral, educational, and industrial training for the Cherokee youth
under a formal home system of management. This work, after many trials and much local opposition, has been
most successfully developed.
Tliis Cherokee training school was a natural result of a system initiated by General Grant whereby various
religious bodies were encouraged to enter into contracts for the education and training of Indian youth. The
council of the Eastern Band of Cherokees made such an agreement with the Friends for a term of 10 years, which
term expired in May, 1890. The majority of the council favored its indefinite continuance. The principal chief,
Nimrod J. Smith, interposed his veto, and, although nearly at the end of his term of ofBce, obstinately opposed the
general wish of the people, and left the matter unsettled.
The school is under the direction of 4 teachers, all female, and 9 other employes, 13 in all, of whom 10 are white
and 3 are Indian. The number of })upils who can be properly and healthfully accommodated in the main building,
the boarding house, is 90, including 20 day pupils. As many as SI have been accommodated. 43 males and 41
females have attended the school more than 1 month, in addition to 15 male and 9 female day scholars, all between
the ages of 6 and 18 years. The school was maintained 10 months, with an average attendance of 80 boarding
pupils and 5.20 day pupils. The average age of the boarders is 9.071, and of day pupils 10.042. During the month
of September, 1889, the average attendance of the boarders was 80, and of the day pupils 17.708. The cost of
maintaining the school was §11,2G4.47, from the government appropriation of $12,000. Industrial work forms a
marked feature of duty, aud this includes forming, fruit culture, gardening, grazing stock, and some shop work.
The general duties of the housewife are taught the girls, as well as plain sewing and other needlework. Scholars
take their turn in laundering, cooking, and housework, so that all learn to make bread and qualify themselves for all
kitchen duty. Practically 125 acres have been cultivated. 50 bushels of wheat, 500 bushels of corn, 75 bushels of
oats, 600 pumpkins, 10 tons of hay, and 50 pounds of butter are among the products of the industry of the school.
The boys and girls have acquired and take care of 33 swine and 150 domestic fowls. 5 horses and 56 cattle,
including 25 milch cows, form the stock of the institution. 4 frame houses and 7 outbuildings are owned by the
government or the Cherokee nation, of which one, a spacious, well-arranged barn, costing S400, was erected during
the year. The salary of the superintendent and matron, besides board, is but $1,000 per annum, and the highest
salary paid any teacher or employe is $30 per month. The week-day programme of exercises fitly illustrates the
excellence of the superintendent's management, and explains the high order among schools which the Cherokee
training school has attained. It is as follows: morning bell, 5 o'clock; breakfast, 5.30; industrial work, 6 to 9 ;
school exercises, 9 to 11.15 ; dinner, 12 m.; industrial work, 12.30 p. m.; school exercises, 1.30 to 4 ; industrial work,
4 to 6 ; supper, 6 ; recreation, 6.30 to 7 ; evening study, 7 ; evening prayers, 8 ; retiring bell, 8.30.
According to age and necessity, a portion of the hours for industrial work and evening study is used for such
occupations as partake of the character of recreation, and an excellent brass band among the boys is the result of
one phase of this system. At the breakfast hour a few verses are read from the Bible, followed by a brief prayer,
and the blessing upon the meal is either uttered by a teacher or the school in unison. The Sabbath exercises are
varied by Sunday-school recitations, but no sectarian or dogmatic teaching has a place at any time. The familiar
but proper forms of a large family are observed at all hours, and the handshaking " good night " is as pleasing and
genial as if all were indeed one family in fact. Religious instruction is largely a matter of i)recept and example,
without catechismal or other straight forms for the inculcation of principles of right and duty.
During the year the hostility of Chief Smith disturbed some of the friends of the school, and the overwork
imposed upon the superintendent, with corresponding delay to keep the Friends, founders and patrons of the school,
promptly advised of its monthly or quarterly condition, led them to propose a summary change. This would gratify
the chiefs spite and please jealous neighbors, who desire the Friends to lose control of the school, although such
a change would prove signally disastrous to its best interests. The school had better be wholly under government
control than undergo so sudden and revolutionary a change. A contract was drafted at the request of parties
interested. Superintendent Spray and the Friends, and its execution in good faith will banish distrust and impart
new life to the institution. The nation as a body has implicit confidence in the mai^agement, and its moral
influence is great and increasing.
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NEEDS OF THE CHEROKEE TRAINING SCHOOL.
Greater accommodations are needed, and the funds necessary for an increase of the pupilage to 125 shoukl be
appropriated. All buildings need painting. A shop for industrial trades is a necessity. The piping for water, near
by, should be so enlarged and developed as to secure a fire cistern, and appliances for use against fire should be
provided. A sawmill should be built, the water power being convenient and abundant. Already the superintendent
buys produce largely from the Indians, and secures for them many articles of clothing at cost. This offends visiting
merchants, who are not always free from the suspicion that ardent spirits reach the Indians through the carelessness
of their employes, so that every local means promotive of self-reliance, independence, and industrial development
should have government sanction and support.
The general management of the institution by the Friends and their representatives has been catholic in spirit,
conciliatory toward all denominations, and liberal in its recognition of the demands of the times. Misrepresentations
awakened anxiety, but an examination of the property, assets, and management resulted in the vindication of the
general policy of the superintendent ; but a more exact and responsible system for future development was formulated.
The recognition of the personal integrity of Superintendent Spray and wife, and the extraordinary success of the
school, with such limited resources, was not allowed to overcome the conviction that a more exact system of record
and account was necessary to inspire full faith in future success. A capable and reliable assistant superintendent,
responsible to the superintendent, is greatly needed, and salaries should be the same as in government schools
proper. The proposed summary change was at a time when only injury could result, and against the wishes of the
moral and reliable portion of the Cherokee nation.
The large building called the boarding house was erected by the United States. The Friends have made
valuable investments, partly from trust funds, which should be fully reimbursed in case the school shall come under
the formal management of the Interior department.
HISTORICAL OUTLINE.
The Eastern Band of Cherokees have been thus officially recognized to distinguish them from that portion of
the nation which emigrated west, between 1809 and 1817, and located on the public domain at the headwaters of
Arkansas and "White rivers, now in Cherokee nation, Indian territory. The latter became known as the Cherokee
nation west, while the general term, the Cherokee nation, included both. Between 1785, when certain boundaries
were allotted to these Indians for hunting gi-ounds, and 1809, when the movement westward was initiated of their
own deliberate choice, annuities were from time to time granted by the United States in consideration of the
successive sales to the United States of portions of their land.
By a treaty made in 1817 the Cherokee nation ceded to the United States certain laud lying east of the
Mississippi river, and in exchange for the same the United States ceded to that part of the nation on the Arkansas
river as much land on said river, acre for acre, as the United States received from the Cherokee nation east of the
Mississippi river, and provided that all treaties then in force should continue in full force with both parts of the
nation.
As early as 1809 the aggregate of annuities due the nation on account of the sale of lands to the United
States had reached the sum of $100,000, and it was provided by articles of the treaty of 1817 that a census should
be taken of those east and of those west, and of those still intending to remove west, and also that a division of the
annuities should be made ratably, according to numbers as ascertained by said census, between those who were
east and those who were west. Thus the tribe or nation, although geographically separated, was treated as a unit,
and all property owned by it was treated as common property.
By a treaty made in 1819 the formal census was dispensed with, and for the purposes of distribution it was
assumed that one-third had removed west and that two-thirds were yet remaining ea.st of the Mississippi river. At
the same time the nation made a further cession to the United States of land lying east of the Mississippi. Upon
the basis of this estimate of numbers, in lieu of a census, annuities were distributed until the year 1835.
By a treaty made in 1828 with the Cherokees west the United States guaranteed to them 7,000,000 acres, with
a perpetual outlet west as far as the sovereignty and right of soil of the United States extended. This vast tract
was in what is now known as Indian territory, and the Cherokees at the same time surrendered the lands occupied
by them on the Arkansas and White rivers, to which they had removed between the years 1809 and 1817. By the
same treaty special inducements were offered to those east to remove west, including a rifle, blanket, kettle, 5
pounds of tobacco, and cost of emigi-ation, with a just compensation for the pi-operty which each might abandon.
The treaty of 1833 simply redefined the boundaries of the land mentioned in the treaty of 1828. In 1835 the
Cherokees still held a quantity of land east of the Mississippi larger than the states of Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
and Connecticut. It had been agreed that the United States Senate should fix the price that should be paid for
these lands in contemplation of the cession of the same to the United States. The Senate fixed the price at
$5,000,000. The original draft of the treaty of 1835 authorized such Cherokees as so desired to remain east, and
in such event to set apart certain lands to them. By a supplemental treaty in 1836 the United States initiated the
E. C— 3
18 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
policy of compelling the Eastern Cherokees to remove west. General Scott employed troops for the purpose. It
was a fearful policy. The Imliaus were hunted over their native lands as if they were wild beasts. As many as
escaped capture clung to their homes, and by the treaty of 1846 it was agreed that they might remain.
Cross .suits and conflicts between the two bands of Cherokees as to their rights to different funds have occupied
the attention of the federal courts and the; Court of Claims proper. Present litigation involves more especially their
title to the lands now occupied by them, which were purchased for them by their agent, W. H. Thomas, as trustee
for that purpose, from their share of funds held by the United States for their benefit. Encroachments upon these
lands, plundering of timber, and all forms of aggression are still harassing their peace and antagonizing their
efforts to be an industrious, contented, and prosperous portion of the people of North Carolina. The details of the
litigation in jjrogress and the failure of Mr. Thomas to secure or preserve the muniments of a perfect title to the lands
he purchased in their behalf are not admissible in this brief outline of their condition in 1890. The looseness with
which, for a small fee, the state of North Carolina permits entries upon lands known to fall within the territory
embraced in the deeds by Mr. Thomas adds its uncertainty to aggravate the unrest which is everywhere visible
among this pcojile as to what they really own in consideration of the money with which they parted, they rightfully
expecting valid and permanent titles. The Eastern Band of Cherokees are good citizens, moral and industrious, in
spite of the jealousies of white people and the unworthy forms of moral constraint by which it is sought to force
them from the homes they own.
In the year 1874, pursuant to act of Congress passed in 1870 (16 United States Statutes, page 139), which
authorized these Indians to institute suit in the circuit court of the United States for the western district of North
Carolina against Thomas, a reference of the subject-matter of conflict was made to an able commission, consisting
of Eufus Barringer, John H. Dillard, and T. Euffin. A decree of award was subsequently made in accordance with
the findings of the eommissioia, and since their approval in November, 1874, and a confirmatory act of Congress in
1876 proceedings have been in progress to define the exact boundaries of the various tracts set forth in said award
and to discover the chain of title through which Thomas and his representatives derived the same. (See House
Executive Document No. 196, Fortj'-seventh Congress, first session, for particulars respecting the conveyance of the
Qualla boundary, stated as 50,000 acres, to the Eastern Band of Cherokees of North Carolina, October 9, 1876, and
conveyance of August 14, 1880, of 15,211 acres to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and his successors of outlying
lauds in Cherokee and other counties, in trust for said band.) (a)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS.
At a general council assembled at Cheoh, December 9, 1868, the Eastern Cherokees placed uj)on record the
following declaration :
We, the Eastern Cherokees, being desirous of holding our general council in some organized form and established manner and under
a like form as other tribes of Indians who are desirous of adopting a republican form of government, and restricting, controlling, and
compensating onr rulers, do hereby enact as follows:
That hcreal'ter each Cherokee settlement or town shall be entitled to one delegate for each member of such settlement, who shall represent
them in said general council, and that said general council shall meet once in each year on of ; that said general council shall,
from (l)oir number when convened, elect one of their numlier who shall be chairman or president of said council, and who shall be president
or cliief of said Eastern Cherokees lor the term of time so directed by said council, not exceeding four years, and in case of choice each
settlement may petition said council in writing upon any subject. Said council shall have power to elect a secretary and interpreter of the
council and marehal of the nation, and fix the duties and compensation of the same. Said council shall have the power to prepare and adopt
by-laws and rules for the general government of the people and the duties of each national officer, and also the compensation of said council,
and assess the national funds and property to pay the same. Said council may prepare by-laws and police regulations and other rules, and
submit the same to the nation in general council assembled, and a majority vote shall adopt or reject the same. They shall also prepare a
system of .schools in ejich settlement and provide for the election of a superintendent or board of trustees, who shall organize the same in
accordance with said regulations. Said council may, in their discretion, lix a place and day or days for holding a national lair, where each
person may present samples of grain, stock, weaving, knitting, spinning, needlework, butter, and any article of agricultural product or fruit,
and domestic or mechanical product ; and also a measure proving amount of crop per acre, atid the numlter of acres cultivated in any crop,
and fix committees to grant i)remiums thereon and name the same, and one premium for the best general sj'stem of farming to be shown by
the general statement.
Signed in Cherokee: John Wayne-ua, chairman; Long Bear, Allen Ratler, Tramper, William McELmore, John Ax, Sowanooka,
Ken"-ska-lcskee, Tah-quah-tee, James Blj-the, Skeegee, John Large, Wilson Ax, Jlink.
Attest:
N. J. Smith,
Clerk of the Committee and Council.
Qualla Town, Jackson County, North Carolina, November 26, 1870.
In conformity to previous appointment, and notice having been gi\en previously to the different towns composing the Eiistern Band of
Cherokees, a grand council is this day organized by appointing Suate Owl and Cornta.ssel, chairmen, and .Tohn Lige and Samuel W. Davidson,
clerks.
The credentials of the delegates were presented and referred to a committee consisting of the following: Jackson Blythe, Will McElmore,
Swimmer, Young S(]Mirrel, Ah-mah-chu-ah, Wilson Wolf, Tom Skitty, Sam Wolf, Lewis Smith, Leander Hornbuckle, John Dobson, and
o The presence nml a.«sistnnce of fieorcc U. Smntlu>i-s, esq., aeliiig assistant United States attorney for the western district of North Carolina, and especially
representing the Cherokees, greatly aided inciuiry respecting their present legal status in the federal ggHrts,
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EASTERN BAND OP CHEROKEES OE NORTH CAROLINA. 19
Willigeb, who, after examining the credentials, reported favorably, and the following delegates then presented themselves, to wit: From
Long Ridge, Cherokee county, R. B. Smith, John Going, Will West; Hanging Dog, John Owl and Teceteska; from Cheoh, Jacob Clieer and
L. R. Welch; Buttalo, Standing Deer; John Jackson as proxy for Sand Town and Henry Smith for Notla.
The delegation then came forward and signed their names as follows:
Jackson county, N. C: Bla«k Fox, Wolf Town; Wilson Welsh, Wolf Town; George Wilnota, Paint Town; Joe Welch, Paint Town;
Le-ya-nah, Lufta; Lewey Owl, Lufta; Jim Ross, Bird Town; Benj. Brown, Bird Town; Axe, Raven Fork; Oolenasseh, Raven Fork.
Cherokee county: R. B. Smith, Long Ridge; Will West, Long Ridge; John Going, Long Ridge; John Owl, Hanging Dog; Teceteska,
Hanging Dog; Jacob Cheer, Cheoh; Loyd R. Welch, Cheoh; Henry Smith, Notla; Standing Deer, Buflalo; John Jackson, Sand Town.
Will McElmore, Lower Hanging Dog, signed in presence of Samuel W. Davidson, clerk.
Ordered by the council that an election be held on Thursday, Decemlier 1, 1870, for principal chief, to serve until our next annual
election in 1871.
December 1, 1870. — The council met pursuant to adjournment and proceeded to business. The election of principal and second chief
was then opened and held and resulted in the election of Flying Squirrel, or Call-Iee-high, as principal chief, and John Jackson, Oo-wah-lun-tee,
as second chief.
The form of government referred to the committee was reported favorably.
It was then moved and seconded that the constitution be adopted by the council, which motion was carried unanimously, and the
constitution as adopted is as follows:
1st. Whereas the legal representatives or councilmen of towns or settlements of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians have this day and
date, at the place aforementioned, met according to general agreement and underatanding.
2d. Said council be, and is hereby, duly authorized and empowered by representation, as the undersigned showeth, to provide for the
common interest and enact measures by which the aforesaid band of Indians may be represented in prosecuting or defending all matters
pertaining to or touching the interest of said band of Indians with the United States, or state or states, or indi\iduaLs of the United States,
In whatever relation said interest may be, provided that nothing herein be so construed as an abrogation of an}' rights, claim or claims, of
any individual or individuals of said band to the legislation of said council in common property.
3d. All membeis constituting the aforesaid council shall be, and they are hereby, governed and bound by all acts pa.ssed in council of
delegates and approved by the chief
4th. All acts done, matle, and confirmed in grand council, as aforesaid, shall be effectual and binding upon all members belonging to or
constituting the aforesaid band, as a band, in all matters held in common or pertaining to the common interest of said baud and not otherwise.
5th. Provided, further, that there be and the council is hereby authorized to appoint an annual session for holding grand councils at
such place and time as they may designate and determine on, and no called or appointed council otherwise held shall be held valid or binding
upon the aforesaid baud or the subjects thereof unless the chief, in his judgment and reason, thinks the interest of said band demands or
justifies such called or appointed council; also, that there be ordered a stated election to be held iu each town and settlement for the purpose
of electing first and second chiefs, whose power and right of governing shall extend over the whole band of Eastern Cherokees for and not
exceeding the term of 2 yeare; also for the electing all subaltern officers to constitute the aforesaid annual council. The s;iid subordinate
term of office shall not exceed 1 year only by the annual election of the band. The right of vote by which said band shall be governed shall
be exclusive and consist only of its male members of 16 years of age and upward. And the aforesaid officers so elected shall have the
exclusive right to govern and rule, and all the acts done, made, or had by said officera for the term elected shall be binding, held binding, and
in full force upon said band. The aforesaid chiefs so elected shall have no power nor hold any right of jurisdiction to enact or enforce laws
within themselves over the band of which he presides as chief, but in all cases or interests conflicting or touching the common rights of said
band the legal reijresentatives shall be duly notified by the chief and the legislative body assembled.
Signed iu Cherokee: Flying Sciuirrel, principal chief ; John Jackson, assistant chief; Black Fox, Wilson Welsh, George Wilnota, Joe
Welch, Le-ya-nah, Lewey Owl, Benj. Brown, Ax, Oolenasseh, Ross B. Smith, Will West, John Going, John Owl, Teceteska.
AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS.
The Eastern Band of the Cherokees having again reunited and become one body politic under the style and title of the " Eastern Band of
the Clierokee Indians"; therefore:
We, the people of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians in annual council assembled, iu order to establish justice, promote the
common welfare, and to assure to ourselves and our posterity the blessings of freedom, acknowledging with humility and gratitude the
goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Univeree in permitting us so to do, and imploring His aid and guidance in its accomplishment, do
ordain and establish these amendments to the constitution for the government of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Article I.
Section 1. The power of the Kxstern Band of the Cherokee Indians shall be divided into two distinct departments, the executive and
the legislative, the executive to consist of the principal and assistant chief, and the legislative of the council.
Article II.
Section 1. The legislative power shall be vested in a council, and all enactments of the council shall be signed by the chairman of the
council and approved by the principal chief, and in all their deliberations the vote shall be taken by yeas and nays, unless otherw iso directed
by the council.
Section 2. Each member of the annual council, before he takes his seat to transact any business of the council, sh.all fake the following
oath (or affirmation) :
" I, A B., do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I have not obtained my election or appointment as a member of this council by bribery or
any undue or unlawful means or duress or fraud, used by myself or othei-s, by my desire or approbation for that purpose; that I consider
myself constitutionally qualified as a member of this council, and that on all questions and measures which may come before me I will give
my vote and so conduct myself as in my judgment shall appear most conducive to the interest and prosperity of the E;>stern Band of the
Cherokee Indians, and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same, and to the utmost of my .ability and jiower observe, conform to,
support, and defend the constitution thereof".
20 STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
Article III.
Section 1. No person sliall ever be eligible to any office or appointment of honor, profit, or trust who shall have aided or abetted,
eonnscled or enconraged any pemon or pereons guilty of defrauding the Eastern Band of the Cherokees, or who may hereafter aid or abet,
couusel or encourage any pretended agents or attorneys in defrauding the Eastern Band of Cherokees.
Article IV.
Section 1. It shall be the duty of the annual council to pass such rules and regulations as may be necessary and proper, and to decide
differences by arbitrators to be appointed by the parties who may choose that summary mode of settlement.
(Abstract.)
Supreme executive, the priucip.al chief, term 4 years; vice or assistant chief. By males of 18 years. Eligibility of either, age 3.'}, and at
least one-fourth Oierokee, of band. In case of de.ath, resignation, or disability of both council appoint until removal of disability or successor
be elected. Councilman must be 21. Compensation of chief and vice not changeable during term.
Oath of principal chief :
" I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the duties of principal chief of the Eastern Band of Clierokees, and will,
to the best of my .ability, preser\e, protect, and defend the constitution of the Eiisteru Band of the Cherokee Indians ".
Principal chief may on extraordinary occasions convene the council at such phice as the council shall designate as the seat of government.
Principal chief from time to time give information as to the state of aflaii-s and recommend measures .as he may think expedient. He
sluall take care that the rules and regulations be faithfully executed; shall visit the different towns and settlements at least once in 2 years.
All officere and members of council take oath, etc. Council lor 2 yeare. Treasurer chosen by council for 2 yeare and give bond. No money
drawn except by warrant from the president in consequence of appropriations by council. Treasurer receive and account for moneys at each
session of the annual council.
Article V. (Abstract.)
No person eligible to any office who denies the existence of a God or a future state of rewards and punishments. Free exercise of religious
worehip and serving God forever enjoyed, but not construed as to excuse acts of licentiousness inconsistent with the peace and safety, etc.
Council may decide the expediency and principal chief nominate to council when necessary to send a delegate to transact business w ith the
United States, and he shall keep up a friendly correspondence tlirough the medium of its proper officere. All commissions to be in the n.ame
and bv the .authority of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, sealed with the seal of the probate court of the county where the council is
held, iiitested by clerk of council, and approved by the princ'ipal chief. Religion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good go\ ernmeut,
the preservation of liberty, and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged and cherished by the
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Annual council may propose amendments as two-thirds deem expedient, the same not to be passed until
the meeting of the next council.
Article VI.
Council shall consist of 2 from each town or settlement of 100 souls, of 1 extra on an excess of 200, and for less than 100 still 1. Council,
at the annual session, shall appoint 2 judges of elections. In fault of election, a majority may send a delegate with certificate, with the names
of those selecting the delegate. Election to be held on the first Thursday in September. Executive council to consist of principal chief,
assistant chief, and 3 sissociates, nominated by the principal chief and confirmed by the council. The annual council shall be held on the first
Monday of October at place designated by council, or, on emergency, by the principal chief. Tlie annual council shall be called to order by
the assistant chief, and a chairman and clerk be elected. In the absence or neglect of the assistant chief any member of the executive council
may organize the council. The oflicers of the council shall be 1 first and 1 second clerk, an interpreter, marehal, messenger, and doorkeeper.
The oath may be administered by any officer of the state or the United States authorized to administer an oath. Conviction of felony shall
exclude from office. Tlie annual council may, by a commission, provide for the purchase of laud tor the Eastern Band of Clierokee Indians;
provided, that any commission provided for under this ordinance may be nominated hy the principal chief and confirmed by the annual council ;
provided further, that no act of such commission shall be constrned to interfere with or in any manner impair the rights of individual members
of said baud. The annual council shall, by appropriate legislation, provide a public .school system for the Eiisteru Band of the Cherokee
Indians. The veto power exists except against a two-thirds vote. Style of enactment: " Be it enacted by the annual council of the Eastern
B.and of the Cherokee Indians ", etc.
(Signed) J. W. Hildek, .and
Attest: / T. Z. P. Enola, Chairman.
John G. Tatham, Secretary of Council.
IIexry Smith, Interpreter.
Approved: LoYi) R. Welch, Principal Cliief.
CiiKOH Council Ground, October 13, 187.5.
OFFICERS AND COUNCIL OF EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES: 1890-1891.
Prinoip.al Chief — Nimrod J. Smith (Clia-la-di-hih, Charles the Killer).
Assistsmt Chief — John Going Welch (Tsani, Always Going).
Chairman of Council — Jesse Reed.
Council — Stihvell Saunooka (Shawnee), Andy Standing Bear (Enidth Alirwigadawga), Wesley Crow (Caw-daah-ry-eh-lig-is-ki, Crow
Marker), Davis George (Dew-isi-ool-ay-oeh, Went Astray), Sampson 0\\1 (S.ah-mi-si-uih Oo-goo<»o, Hooting Owl), Bird Salolanita (Young
Squirrels), .Tesscan Climbing Bear (Yo-no-ga-la-ki), Abr.ah.am Hill (0-<iuan-ih), Morgan Calhoun (Au-gan-aahf-to-dah, Ground .Sausage Me.at),
Suate Martin (Suy-e-taTlu-tlu, Mixed Martin), Will (Ttali-lah-lah, Redheaded Woodpecker), John MuUethead (Tsis-ila-qua-lun-na, Mullethead
Fish), Armstrong Cornsilk (Ka-nau-tsi-da-wi Oo-ne-noo-di), and John Davis (Axe, no Indian name).
. Eleventh Census : 1890.
Eastern Cherokees.
AVu) Y«rl, Enj/rmmg Jc l-rinlhia <:,.. EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEE COUNCILMEN OF 1891.
Rear Group. Rev. John Jackson Graham. Co., N C. Morgan Calhoun, Big Ccve.
Front Group, Wrri, Tj-la-lah, Bird Town. Wesley Crow, Wolf Town,
EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES OF NORTH CAROLINA. 21
INCORPORATION OF THE EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS: 1889.
By an act of the general assembly of North Carolina, ratified the 11th day of March, 1889 (Laws of Nortli
Carolina, 1889, chapter 211, page 889), the North Carolina or Eastern Cherokee Indians, resident and domiciled
in the counties of Cherokee, Graham, Jackson, and Swain, were created a body politic and corporate under the name,
style, and title of " Tlie Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, with all the rights, privileges, franchises, and powers
incident and belonging to corporations under the laws of the state of North Carolina".
By section 2 said Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was authorized to sue and implead, and might be sued and
impleaded, touching and concerning all the property of whatever nature held in common by the said band in said
counties.
By section 3 any grants to any person or persons for any of the land held by said Eastern Band of Cherokee
Indians, and under whom said Indians claimed title, as also all deeds made by commissioners of the state to any
person or persons for what are known as Cherokee lauds held by said Cherokee Indians in said counties and under
whom said Cherokees claim, are held as valid.
By section 4 it was provided that in all cases where titles or deeds have been executed to the said Eastern Band
of Cherokee Indians, or any person or persons in trust for them under that name and style, by any person or persons,
either collectively or personally, officially, or in any capacity whatever, such deeds or titles should be held as valid
against the state and all persons or any person claiming by, through, or under the state by virtue of anj' grant dated
or issued subsequent to the aforesaid deeds or titles to the said Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Bj' section 5 it was provided that in case any person or persons claiming any part of the lands described in the
preceding sections adversely to the said Indians under colorable title or titles shall be sued by reason of such
adverse claim, or any possession under such colorable title or titles, said act shall not be used in evidence on either
side nor in any way prejudice the rights of either party, but such suit or suits shall be determined as if said act had
not been passed.
By section G said act took effect from and after its ratification.
SOLDIERS.
The following are the surviving union soldiers of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians of North Carolina.
The names are correct, Imt the spelling may differ from that on the muster roll.
John Going Welch, Thomas Otter, James Otter, John Brown, Owkwataga, Mason Eatley, Steve Johnson, John Taylor, John Canott, John
Igotpa, David Patridge, James Walkingstick, and Thomas Canott, all of Company D, Third regiment North Carolina mounted infantry; R. B.
Smith, company and regiment unknown.
The following are the surviving widows of union soldiers :
Nancy Brown, widow ol'^Benj. Brown; nochildren. Ah-nu-yo-lii Walker, widowof .Tohn AValker; Ichild under 163earsof age; married
since death ol' soldier, but her husband is dead. Wah-li-sah, widow ol' Thom.is Oo-lay-i\vay; no children. Stacy Taylor, widow of George
Kanot; had :5 children by Kanot, all under Iti j'ears of age; remarried since death of soldier. Nancy Mumblehead, widow; no children; is
drawing a pension.
The following are the surviving confederate soldiers, those marked with a * indicating those who afterward
entered the federal service :
Company A, Si.xty-ninth North Carolina Regiment — Peter Greybeard, lyo-ha-ne (Swimmer Fox), Swa-tah (Suate Owl), Toy-a-ne-teh,
Chu-wa-lookeh, Coh-goh (Wesley Crow), Cah-hah (Wild Cat), Chlantees-t^^i (Pheasant), Ezekiel Greybeard, *How-ee-neo-ta (James
Walkingstick), J&ssan, John Lossih, * Keen-tis-kee (John Igotpa), * Oo-ste-na<»o (John Taylor), Oo-lassta-eh (Joe Lowin), Oo-teet-geeskih
Wallaski, *Oolstooih (John Brown), *Olter Now-eyontich (Tom Otter), *Mason Reckey (Mason Ratley), .Jesse Reed, * Soo-tpiechee (in Cherokee
nation west), Squenseli, San-to-neh (James Keg), Mickee Skittes (whereabouts unknown), *Jolm Saudere, Suque-yeh, Samuel Needa, and
Te-ses-kih.
Comjiany B, Sixty-ninth North Carolina Regiment — N. J. Smith, alias .Tarrett Smith, John Ross, John Wah-ye-neete, Danelah, Dick-a-
geeskee, John Davis, *Echu-le-hah (Steve Johnson), Kooe-Skooe (Ross Cochran), Larchee, Lazy Bigmeat, David Murphy, Oo-chum-teh (Come-
back Wolf), Okanieh, -Jim Otter, ''David Patridge, Watteh Sell-alle-seh, Seipio-yo Sell-alle-seh, Segilleh Bigmeat, Tah-lee Casabsta (perhaps
Ca-lol-ster), Tohesky, W.ih-has-eh (Tom Skifty), Moses Wolf.
INDEX.
EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEES OF NORTH CAROLINA AND EASTERN CHEROKEES.
Abraham Enloe and Ixis locality, 12.
Agricultural implements very rude, 11.
Agricultural products, and value of, 1890, 8.
Agriculture the chief employment, 14.
Allowance from United States to Kastern Band applied to scliool purposes,?, 9.
Allowance from United States to Eastern Band from a school fund, 9, 15.
Amendments to constitution in 1875, 19, 20.
Ancient relics manufactured for sale to white people, 14.
Annuities distributed until 1835, 17.
Annuities from land sales, 1809-1817, 17.
Area of cultivated land in 1890, 8.
Area of land held in 1835, 17.
Area of Qualla boundary, 7.
A Sunday-school boy's question, 13.
B
Baptist convention of North Carolina sustains a minister, 14.
Basket making practiced by a few, 14.
Berries and wild fruits abundant, 11.
Big Witch, an aged Cherokee, at home, 12.
Bird, Rev. John, a venerable missionary; his opinion regarding a central
place of worship, 13, 15.
BIythe, James, United States Indian agent, furnishes data collected during
persona! visitations, 8.
Boarding and training school, 9, 16.
Boundaries specifically defined, 12, 13.
Brass band formed by pupils of training school, 16.
Bridges constructed in a crude manner by Eastern Cherokees, 14.
c
Catholics not found among the Cherokees, 14.
Censuses of Eastern Cherokees mentioned by Commissioner of Indian Aflairs
Price in 1884, 8.
Censuses of Indians of North Carolina, 7, 8.
Center of interest and divergence at the agency, 12.
Character of lands occupied, 11.
Character of the people, industrious, moral, and law-abiding, 7, 18.
Cherokee industries, 14.
Cherokee political meeting, 12.
Cherokees divided into two bands, 1809-1817, 17.
Cherokees, Eastern, number of, in 1890, 7.
Cherokees have a written language, 7, 15.
Cherokees retain the physical features of the race, 9.
Chief Nimrod J. Smith opposes the training school, 16.
Chief, principal, i^romises a personal reform, 15.
Chitolski at his model home, 12.
Christianity generally accepted by the band, 14.
Christian teachers only are employed, 14.
Church buildings very dilapidated, 14.
Church comniunicants and baciksliders, 15.
Church organizations languishing, 14.
Citizen clothing in general use, 8.
Citizens of the United States, Eastern Cherokees, 7.
Clay for brick accessible, 14.
Climate invigorating and healthful, U.
Clothing the same as that of white citizens, 8.
Commissioners of federal court award certain lands, 18.
Confusion as to titles caused by defective surveys, 11.
Congress confirms certain titles in 1876, 18.
Congress initiates settlement of titles in 1874, 18.
Constitution as amended in 1875, 19, 20.
Constitution of 1870, 19.
Contributions for church purposes, 15.
Corn crop rarely fails, 11.
Counties of Cherokee, Graham, Jackson, and Swain partly occupied by the
Eastern Band of Cherokees, 7, 11, 21.
Court adjudications considered, 18.
Crimes of any grade very rare, 15.
Crops embrace fruit and usual farm products, 11.
Crops, statistics of, for 1890, 8.
Crow, Wesley, home of, 13.
D
Details of Qualla boundary, 12, 13.
Distinction between eastern and western bands, 17.
B
Earnings of individual Cherokees, amount of, 9.
Economic and social condition, 7.
Education and schools, 9, 15, 16.
Emigration westward, 1809-1817, voluntary, 17.
Encroachments upon Indian lands by white people, 8, 18.
Engineering upon roads very creditable, 11.
English language used in ordinary intercourse by many Indians,
Exchange of eastern for western lands, 17.
Exemplary school pupils, 15.
Expenses of training school, 9, 16.
Farming machines, use of, impracticable, 11, 12, 14.
Farming the chief employment, 14.
Federal authorities, co-operation of, in the investigation of violations of Indian
land laws and encroachments of white people on Indian lands, 8, 18.
Fishing, trout, good, 12.
Friends founders of the training school, 16.
Funds for schools derived from interest on educational fund, 9, 15.
Q
Government aid needed to repair buildings, 17.
Government republican in form, 18.
Graham county, Cherokees occupy lands in, 7, II, 21.
Grant, General, established the denominational system, 16.
Grants of western lands, T7.
Gristmills simple in construction and numerous, 12.
H
Health statistics of the Qualla boundary, 8.
Hills are too steep to admit of use of improved farming implements, 11, 12, 14.
Hinges of houses made mainly of wood, 11.
Hobbs, Barnabas, founder of the training school, 15, 16.
Home of the Eastern Band of Cherokees described, 11.
House accommodations very simple, 11.
Houses without windows, 11.
Illegitimate births less than among white people, 15.
Immorality and crime very rare, 15.
Improvements needed at the training school, 17.
Incorporation of Ea.stern Band of Cherokees by general assembly of North
Carolina in 1889, 7, 21.
Increase in numbers noted, 7.
Industrial development quite promising, 14.
Industries, 14.
Industries taught at the training school, 16.
Industry common to this people, 14, 15.
Intemperance not prevalent, 15.
Intemperate or profane employes lose their positions, 15.
Irrigation natural and adequate, 11.
Jackson coimty, Cherokees occupy lands in, 7, 11, 21.
Jackson, John, and others, native ministers and helpers connected with the
Baptist church, 15.
K
Kaolin accessible, 14.
Keeler, Widow, postmistress of Birdtown post office, 13.
Land areas defined, 17.
Lands aboimd in choice timber, 11.
Live stock statistics for 1890, 8.
Location of Eastern Baud of Cherokees defined, 11.
23
24
STATISTICS OF INDIANS.
^
e
M
Management of traininp: school under review, 17.
Manufacture of wooden spoons quite common, 14.
Marriage observed and honored, 15.
Mechanical employments quite limited, H.
Melons and garden products, a suthciency of, U.
Methodist church sustains a minister, 15.
Mission ent^'rprise formerly a success, 14,
Morality fostered by the training school, 14, 15. 16.
Morality urged as a prerequisite for oiiice, 15.
Muttonhead, Willie, questions hia Sunday-school teacher regarding the school-
house, 13.
N
Native ministers and helpers. 14.
North Carolina at fault as to titles, 11.
O
Occupations chiefly farming, lumbering, and day labor, ^
Officers, elective, and qualifications stated, 20.
Owen, Rev. S. G., preaches three times a week, 14.
Pagan rites no longer observed, 14.
Physical features of the race retained, 9.
Plowing done with a single steer, 11, 12,
Pneumonia incident to sudden changes, 11.
Population at various dates, 7, 8,
Potatoes prolific in bearing, 11,
Pottery exhibits ingenuity and skill, 14,
Price. Hon. Hiram, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, 1834, mentions censuses of
Eastern Cherokees, 8,
Princip..: chief promises to reform, 15.
Pupils of training school and their studies, 16.
Q
QiialificationB for office stated, 20.
Qualla boundary defined, and area of,
, 11-13.
R
Religious exercises at the training school, 16.
Religious services held at schoolhouses, 14.
Removal of Indians by force attempted by General Bcott, 18,
Removal westward a voluntary movement, 17.
Reservation system not applied to the Cherokees, 7-
Revival of church work desired, 15.
Rivers and streams numerous and described, 11, 12.
Roads indicate engineering skill, 11,
Routine of duty and studies of training school, 16,
Sawmill needed near the government agency, 14.
Scenery varied and beautiful, 11.
School, district, buildings owned by the Cherokees, 9,
School facilities among the Cherokees, 9, 15,
School fund and its source, 9, 15.
Schoolhouses used for religious worship, 14.
Schoolhouses well furnished, 12,
School in Graham county discontinued, 15.
School loc-ations and names, 9, 15,
School programme at training school, 16.
Schools and education, 9, 15, 16,
School statistics, 9, 15.
School system very etJieient, 14, 16.
Scott, General, attempts to enforce migration westward, 18,
Sectarian jealousies weaken the churches, 14.
Sectarian teachers excluded from training school, 14.
Seed generally sown by hand, 14.
Self-sustaining and self-reliant as a people, 7.
Senate, United States, valuation of Cherokee lands by, 17.
Soldiers and soldiei-s' widows, 21.
Spray, William H., superintendent of training school, 14.
State of North Carolina incorporates the Eastern Band of Cherokees, 1889, 7, 21,
Statistics of Cherokee schools, 9, 15,
Stock, live, statistics of, for 1890, 8,
Struggle to retain the ancestral home, 18.
Sunday schools maintained, 14.
Superintendent Spray, his management of the training school and his religious
influence, 14, 16, 17.
Survey of 1876 of the Qualla boundary, 11.
Survey, new, necessary to settle titles, 11.
Surveys conflicting, 11.
Swain county, Cherokees occupy lands in, 7, 11, 21.
T
Temperance obligatory upon school employes. 15,
Temperance proposed as a requisite for office, 15.
Temperance societies not formally organized, 15,
Temple survey, 11,
Thomas, W, H., acts as trustee for the Eastern Cherokees, 18.
Timber, many kinds of, and supply abundant, 14.
Timber, supply of, abundant for many years, 11,
Titles before Congress in 1874, 18.
Titles confirmed by Congress in 1876, 18.
Titles impaired by North Carolina's disregard of records and tiles. U.
Traditions preserved to some extent, 7.
Training school, schools, and education. 9, 15, 16, 17,
Training school management under review, 17.
Training school prosperous and popular, 16,
Treaty of 1817 exchanges eastern for western land, 17.
Treaty of 1819 the basis of annuities, 17,
Treaty of 1828 encourages emigration by a bounty, 17,
Treaty of 1833 redefines boundaries, 17.
Treaty of 1836 is resisted by the band, 17.
Treaty of 1846 suspends enforced emigration, 18,
Trustee for Eastern Cherokees, 18.
u
Union church edifice, a central, favored, 15.
United States court as to land titles, 18.
United States Senate values the Cherokee lands, 17.
Unity of the two Cherokee bands maintained, 17.
V
Valleys narrow and hillsides steep, 11.
Valuation of the Cherokee lands by the United Slates Senate, 17.
Vegetables extensively raised, 11,
\v
Wages low, but cost of living small, 9.
Wagon making cArried on by Davis Welch, 1 J.
Water power only used in the mills, 12,
Water supply ample for irrigation and generally difl'used. 11.
Welch, John Going, vice principal chief, home of, 13.
White intruders in 1890, 8.
Wiggins, Rev, J. A., preaches once each month, 15,
Windows, houses without, 11,
AVitch, Big, aged 105, at home, 12,
Witchcraft, few believers in, 14.
Working bees, 12.
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