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1833  02328  847 


iGc  977.2  H24  5m  v. 2  pt.2 
Harrison,  William  Henry, 

1773-1841. 
Messages  and  letters  of 

Wi.  1.  U.am.  Henrv  Hs^rrison 


\ 


— -St'?'  »'1!IJ.-'rV-.-Vr  >'l<r»*«.»>.yJ;-»-y«iO!lJH».?f  -^-T- 


mDI AM  .HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Volume  IX 


i4        '         ' 

'  '    «J 


GOVERNORS  MESSAGES  AND 
LETTERS 

VOLUME  II 


Allen  county  PubUc  L^m 
900  Webstef  Street  i 

PO  Box  2270        j.^,  2270 
Fort  V/ayne,  IN  46801'ZZ/w 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        387 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters  Chilacothe  17th  Maj-cli  1813 

Sir  : 

I  had  the  honor  tliis  day  to  receive  your  communication  of 
tlie  oth  Instant,  [see  above]  I  have  in  a  former  letter  informed 
you  that  I  thouglit  it  necessary  to  reiterate  my  application 
to  the  Governor  of  Kentucky  for  the  two  Regiments  which  I 
had  requested  him  to  organize  for  immediate  service.  This 
step  was  taken  after  the  most  mature  deliberation  and  upon 
the  fullest  conviction  not  only  of  its  propriety  but  of  its  abso- 
lute necessity.  With  the  exception  of  two  Remnants  of  Tribes 
and  a  part  of  another  we  are  nov/  at  war  with  all  the  Indians, 
which  fonned  the  confederacy  that  was  opposed  by  the  army 
under  General  Wayne,  Avith  the  addition  of  Several  numerious 
and  warlike  Tribes  and  the  wiiole  of  this  savage  force  di- 
rected by  the  skill  of  British  officers  and  supported  by  the 
steady  valour  of  British  vetei'ans.  Several  important  posts 
have  been  established  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the  enemy 
in  which  and  in  those  which  connect  them  with  the  settlements 
large  supplies,  have  been  deposited  of  immense  value  from 
their  actual  cost  and  of  vital  importance  to  our  future  opera- 
tions. With  a  frontier  so  extensive  to  protect  and  a  deposit 
so  sacred  to  guard  against  the  attempts  of  any  enemy  as  sub- 
tle and  formidable  as  Indians  and  British  when  united  cer- 
tainly are — I  could  not  think  that  a  force  which  in  the  agre- 
gate  would  not  exceed  three  thousand  and  which  from  experi- 
ence 1  knew  would  not  amount  to  two  thousand  effectives 
w^ould  be  two  large.  The  post  at  the  Miami  Rapids  may  be 
maintained  for  some  weeks  with  Five  hundred  or  six  hundred 
men.  It  ought  not  hov/ever  in  my  opinion  to  have  less  than 
twelve  hundred.  The  Forts  upon  the  Auglaize  and  St.  Marys 
seven  in  number  including  Fort  Wayne  must  be  kept  up  to 
pi'eserve  our  convoys.  That  of  Lower  Sandusky  is  so  impor- 
tant and  so  easily  assailable  as  soon  as  the  lake  is  navigable 
that  I  feel  great  apprehentions  for  it  altho'  protected  by  two 
companies.  That  at  Ujjper  Sandusky  has  now  within  its  walls 
upwards  of  three  thousand  barrels  of  Flour  Twelve  thousand 
bushels  of  forage  and  othei-  valuable  stores,  surrouiided  by 
three  hundred  Wyandot  Warriors  whose  friendly  disposition 
can  not  be  considered  unequivocal.     I  could  not  commit  its 


388  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

protection  to  less  than  two  weak  companies.  At  Mc Arthurs 
and  Findley's  Block  Houses  there  are  nearly  three  thousand 
barrels  of  flour  which  also  require  protection  and  the  Five 
thousand  which  are  at  St.  Marys  (Girtys  Town  on  the  Map) 
and  Amanda  (Tawa  Tov/n  on  the  Augiaize)  cannot  descend 
to  the  Rapids  in  safety  without  escorts  even  if  it  were  not 
necessary  to  send  Troops  to  the  Rapids  to  supply  the  place  of 
the  Virginia  and  Pennsylvania  Militia  whose  term  of  service 
Vv'ill  expire  in  fifteen  days. 

*The  known  candour  of  your  character  is  a  sufficient  se- 
curity for  my  receiving  your  pardon  for  the  liberty  I  take  in 
making  objections  to  the  plan  of  operations  communicated 
in  your  letter  of  the  5th  Inst.  If  there  is  a  positive  certainty 
of  our  getting  command  of  Lake  Earie  and  having  a  regular 
force  of  three  thousand  five  hundred  or  even  three  thousand 
well  disciplined  men  the  proposed  plan  of  setting  out  from 
Cloaveland  and  landing  on  the  northern  shore  below  Maiden 
would  perhaps  be  the  one  by  which  that  place  and  its  depend- 
encies, could  be  most  easily  reduced.  I  am  unacquainted  with 
the  extent  of  the  preparations  that  are  making  to  obtain  the 
naval  superiority  upon  Lake  Earie,  but  should  they  fail  and 
the  Troops  be  assembled  at  Cleveland,  it  would  be  dificult  to 
get  again  upon  the  proper  track  for  making  the  attack  round 
the  Head  of  the  Lake.  The  attempt  to  cross  the  Lake  from 
Clcaveland  should  not  be  made  with  any  other  than  well  dis- 
ciplined Troops.  A  comparatively  smaller  number  of  men  of 
this  description  could  effect  the  object  and  for  those  the  means 
of  conveyance  might  be  obtained.  But  the  means  of  trans- 
porting such  an  army  as  would  be  required  of  Militia  or  un- 
disciplined regulars  could  not  be  procured.  I  can  see  no  rea- 
son why  Cleaveland  should  be  prefered  as  the  point  of  em- 
barcation  for  the  Troops  or  the  deposit  of  provisions  and 
stores.  These  are  already  accumulated  at  the  Rapids  of 
]\Iiami  or  in  situations  to  be  easily  sent  thither  to  an  amount 
nearly  equal  to  the  consumption  of  a  protracted  campaign. 
Altho  the  expence  and  difficulty  of  transporting  the  provisions, 
artillery  and  stores,  for  an  army  round  the  head  of  the  Lak(i 
would  be  very  considerable,  the  Lake  being  possessed  by  our 
ships  and  the  heavy  baggage  taken  in  boats  along  its  margin 
the  troops  would  find  no  difficulty  in  the  land  route.  The 
force  contemplated  in  your  letter  is  in  my  opinion  not  suffi- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        389 

cicnt  to  insure  success.  Admitting  that  the  whole  should  be 
raised  by  the  time  pointed  out  they  would  be  very  little  su- 
perior to  militia,  the  officers  having  with  scarcely  an  excep- 
tion to  learn  their  duly  before  they  could  instruct  llieir  men, 
we  have  therefore  no  alteniative  but  to  make  up  by  numbers, 
the  deficiency  in  discipline.  I  am  well  aware  of  the  intolera- 
ble expence  which  attends  the  employment  of  a  large  militia 
force.  We  are  now  however  in  a  situation  to  avoid  the  errors 
which  made  that  of  the  last  campaign  so  peculiarly  heavy. 
Our  supplies  are  procured  and  so  deposited  that  the  period  for 
the  march  of  the  army  from  the  advanced  posts  can  be  ascer- 
tained to  an  hour;  and  of  course  the  troops  need  not  be  called 
out  until  the  moment  they  are  to  act.  Experience  has  con- 
vinced me,  that  militia  are  more  efficient  in  the  early  than  in 
the  latter  part  of  their  service.  Upon  the  whole  it  is  my 
decided  opinion  that  the  Rapids  of  Miami  should  be  the  point 
of  Rendezvous  for  the  Troops  as  well  as  the  principal  depot. 
Indeed  it  must  necessarily  be  the  first  deposit,  the  provisions 
for  the  army  being  so  placed  that  they  can  be  taken  to  the  Lake 
in  no  other  way.  The  Artillery  and  a  considerable  supply  of 
ammunition  are  already  there.  Boats  and  perouges,  have 
been  built  in  considerable  numbers  on  the  Auglaize  and  St. 
Marj^s  Rivers  and  eveiy  exertion  is  now  making  to  increase 
them,  intended  for  the  double  purpose  of  taking  do^\^l  the  pro- 
visions to  the  Rapids  and  for  coasting  the  Lake  with  the  bag- 
gage of  the  army  in  its  advance.  I  had  calculated  upon  being 
able  partially  to  use  this  mode  of  transportation  even  if  the 
enemy  should  continue  their  naval  superiority  on  the  lake — 
but  with  this  advantage  on  our  side  the  whole  baggage  of  the 
army  could  be  safely,  and  expeditiously  carried  along  the  coast 
in  the  boats  and  Perouges  which  could  be  taken  into  the  Strait 
to  transport  the  amiy  to  the  Canada  shore.  As  I  have  before 
observed,  the  army  unincumbered  with  heavy  baggage  would 
find  no  difficulty  in  marching  round  the  lake  at  any  season, 
but  what  the  enemy  would  create;  and  we  have  the  means  of 
subsisting  a  force  that  vrould  be  irresistable.  The  objection  to 
proceeding  in  this  way  stated  in  my  letter  to  I\Ir.  IMonroo  arose 
from  the  time  that  would  be  necessary  to  construct  boats  after 
"we  should  have  arrived  at  the  Strait  but  this  objection  is  en- 
tirely obviated  by  our  obtaining  the  command  of  the  Lake  as 
the  boats  and  perouges  built  upon  the  Miami  will  answer  the 
purpose.  ■       . 


390  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

With  regard  to  the  quantui'n  of  force,  my  opinion  is  that 
not  only  the  rcg'uhir  Troops,  dcsi<!;nated  in  your  Letter,  but 
a  large  auxiliary  coi'ps  of  Militia  should  be  employed.  The 
only  objection  arrises  from  the  expensiveness  of  troops  of  that 
description.  This  however  could  not  be  an  object  considering 
the  very  short  time  that  it  would  be  necessary  to  employ  them. 
Let  the  moment  for  the  commencement  of  the  march  from 
tlie  Ilapids  be  fixed,  and  the  Militia  might  be  taken  to  that 
point  proceed  and  accomplish  the  object  and  return  home  in 
two  months.  Amongst  the  reasons  which  makes  it  necessary 
to  employ  a  large  force,  I  am  sorry  to  mention  the  dismay  and 
disinclination  to  the  service  which  appears  to  prevail  in  the 
western  country.  Numbers  must  give  that  confidence  which 
ought  to  be  produced  by  warriors  valour  and  intrepidity  which 
never  existed  in  any  army  in  a  superior  degree  than  amongst 
the  greater  part  of  the  militia  which  were  with  me  through 
the  winter.  The  new  drafts  from  this  State  are  entirely  of 
another  character  and  are  not  to  be  depended  upon.  I  have 
no  doubt  however  but  a  sufficient  number  of  good  men  can  be 
pi'ocured  and  should  they  be  allowed  to  serve  on  Horse  Back 
Kentucky  would  furnish  some  regiments  that  would  be  not 
inferior  to  those  that  fought  at  the  River  Raisin  and  they  were 
in  my  opinion  superior  to  any  militia  that  ever  took  the  field 
in  modern  times.  Eight  troops  of  cavalry  have  been  formed 
in  Kentucky  to  ofi'er  me  their  services  and  several  of  them 
were  intended  for  12  months  volunteers.  Gov.  Shelby  has 
some  thoughts  of  taking  the  field  in  person;  a  number  of  good 
men  will  follow  him.  He  thinks  that  an  address  from  me  to 
ihc  i)eople  of  the  state  would  produce  a  good  effect.  I  have 
strong  objections  to  those  addresses  but  will  nevertheless  have 
recoui'se  to  one  should  other  means  fail  of  bringing  forward 
a  snfTicient  force. 

l'A-(M'y  exertion  shall  in  the  mean  time  be  used  to  forward 
tlic  i-ecruiting  service.  Foi'  a  fev/  weeks  I  think  that  my 
services  would  be  more  useful  in  that  than  any  other  employ- 
ment.=*^» 

For  the  Wiuit  of  another  ofiicer  wlio  is  qualified  for  so  im- 
po)-t;int  a  charge  I  hav(!  been  obliged  to  order  Colo.  [John] 
Millo)-  of  the  IDth  to  Camp  Meigs  and  have  committed  the  re- 
ci-uiling  disti-ict  to  Major  [John]  Whistler  until  the  arrival  of 

I.  'J'hr  I'ait-i  of  this  letter  Ijclwcen  the  two  *'s  wcro  umlci  .scoif<l  by  the  sccrftaiy 
of   v;tr   anrl   foiinci)   the   basis   of   the   eiiMiin!,'   campaign. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        391 

Lt.  Col.  [John  B.]  Campbell  who  is  hi  the  southern  part  of 
Kentucky  on  furlough. 

The  British  emissaries  have  been  throu.'^hout  the  winter 
amongst  the  Indian  Tribes  engaging  them  for  the  service  of 
the  present  spring.  The  Potav\'atimies  and  Miamies  alone 
have  agreed  to  furnish  1000  wari'iors  and  the  British  have 
promised  to  meet  our  army  between  the  Miami  Rapids  and 
Maiden.  The  Indians  will  not  want  to  be  cooped  up  in  Maiden, 
Knowing  then  the  point,  and  having  it  in  our  power  to  fix  the 
hour  Y/hen  the  decisive  action  will  be  fought — why  with  such 
a  population  as  the  western  country  affords  should  we  not 
have  a  force  that  will  leave  nothing  to  chance?  I  must  again 
intreat  your  pardon  for  the  freedom  with  which  these  obser- 
vations are  made  and  beg  you  to  believe  that  whatever  may 
be  your  final  orders  and  however  oposcd  to  my  own  opinions 
they  shall  be  executed  with  promptitude  and  fidelity.  I  shall 
be  thankful  for  as  early  information  as  may  be  convenient 
as  to  the  extent  of  the  command  which  is  intended  for  me  and 
whether  any  cooperating  expeditions  to  the  westward  are  in- 
tended. Upon  this  subject  my  opinion  is  that  feints  well 
supported  will  answer  every  purpose  of  making  divertions.  It 
is  the  intention  of  the  British  to  assemble  for  the  protection 
of  Maiden  all  the  Indians  they  can  get.  I  do  not  therefore 
believe  that  any  attempt  Vv^ill  be  made  by  a  considerable  force 
upon  our  settlements  to  the  westward  until  late  in  the  sum- 
mer. They  may  however  make  demonstrations  in  that  direc- 
tion to  cause  a  division  of  our  force.  Col.  [William]  Russell 
of  the  7th  Regt.  has  hitherto  commanded  under  my  orders  in 
the  Indiana  Territory.  He  is  I  believe  now  in  Kentucky.  I 
shall  order  him  to  Vincennes  immediately.  I  am  convinced 
that  I  can  render  more  service  by  remaining  within  the  set- 
tlements in  forwarding  the  recruiting  service  and  organising 
the  new  army  than  by  returning  to  the  frontier.  I  beg  leave 
to  recommend  that  a  Brigd.  be  sent  on  to  take  the  command  at 
the  Rapids.  I  have  understood  that  Genl.  William  Clark  is  to 
be  appointed  a  Brigd.  Having  served  several  years  with  this 
gentleman  and  having  a  perfect  knowledge  of  his  character 
and  talents  I  do  not  hesitate  to  say  that  in  the  kind  of  warfare 
in  which  we  are  engaged  I  had  lathei'  have  him  with  me  than 
any  other  man  in  the  United  States. 

From  the  concluding  paragraph  of  your  letter  I  have  sup- 


392  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

posed  that  it  was  the  intention  of  the  Pj-esidcnt  to  ix^i-mit  me 
to  nominate  the  staff  of  the  N.  Western  army.  I  have  not 
however  done  so,  and  shall  wait  your  further  instructions  upon 
the  subject. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  perfect  respect 

Yr.  lib.  Svt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Ilonble.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secy,  of  War 

Indorsed : 

Chilicothe  7th  March  1813.  Major  Genl.  Harrison.  Has  reit- 
erated his  request  to  the  Gov.  of  Kentucky  for'  additional 
forces — states  forts  and  their  strengths — thinks  the  Rapids  a 
point  of  rendezvous  preferable  to  Cleveland — Does  not  think 
the  force  assigned  him  sufficient  for  the  object,  cannot  at  first 
be  better  than  militia — states  the  great  advantage  of  com- 
manding the  Lakes — Col.  Russell  ordered  to  Vincennes. 

.      .        Shelby  to  Harrison 
>  ,;„  .r:  >    .  :  Frankfort  March  20th,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  970-976 

Dear  Sir: 

By  the  mail  of  last  evening  I  was  favored  by  the  receipt  of 
your  letter  of  the  12th  inst.  At  the  time  it  came  to  hand 
Brigdier  Genl.  Green  Clay,  and  the  Field  officers  of  the  De- 
tachment now  ordered  from  this  State  to  the  Rapids  was  in 
council  at  Lexington  to  determine  on  the  most  suitable  places 
to  assemble  the  troops  on  the  rout  to  Limestone.  Their  ren- 
dezvous having  been  previously  ordered  by  my  self  to  be  on  the 
29th  inst.  Immediately  on  the  receipt  of  your  letter  I  dis- 
patched an  express  to  General  Clay,  who  will  command  the 
detachment,  inclosed  him  a  copy  of  your  letter  to  me  and  di- 
rected him  to  fix  upon  such  places  for  the  rendezvous  as 
would  facilitate  the  movement  of  the  troops  on  the  rout  to 
Cincinati  as  you  request  except  such  of  them  as  would  neces- 
sarily come  by  Limestone  from  the  northeastern  part  of  the 
state  the  whole  of  this  detachment  being  ordered  from  the 
north  side  of  Kentucky  as  it  was  believed  they  could  join  you 
from  eight  to  ten  days  sooner  than  if  ordered  from  the  south- 
ern quarter  of  the  state.  My  express  to  Genei'al  Clay  was 
instructed  to  arrive  in  Lexingtoji  this  morning  by  daylight 


BlrtfjnrMatfa^*^ 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        393 

before  tlie  board  of  officers  should  disperse.  I  cannot  say 
exactl^^  vvhat  poi'tion  of  the  troops  maj'  assemble  at  Limestone 
but  probably  not  more  than  one  Batalion. 

The  Residue  of  the  Militia  directed  to  be  organix'Xi  and 
detached  by  the  Act  of  the  3d  of  Feby.  last  say  1500  infantry 
now  stand  detached  from  the  Militia  of  this  State  in  pursu- 
ance of  that  Law  subject  to  any  future  requisition  from  the 
General  Government. 

It  was  truly  unfortunate  that  you  could  not  accomplish  the 
destruction  of  the  Queen  Charlotte  as  without  the  command 
of  Lake  Erie  it  is  evident  to  every  reflecting-  mind,  that  no 
decent  upon  Upper  Canada  by  way  of  ]\Ialdcn,  can  promise  a 
favourable  issue,  and  it  will  be  madness  in  the  extreme  to  put 
to  hazard  the  best  blood  and  interest  of  our  country  to  attempt 
it  until  that  event  is  effected,  very  many  considerations  might 
be  urged  in  support  of  this  opinion  v/hich  have  no  doubt  oc- 
curred to  you,  and  are  unnecessary  for  me  now  to  repeat.  I 
fear  however  that  the  British  are  also  constructing  vessells 
of  War  and  that  when  the  Spring  opens  they  will  be  able  to 
counteract  us  upon  the  Upper  Lakes.  It  is  said  by  some  of 
the  prisoners  taken  at  River  Raisin  that  seventy  ship  carpen- 
ters were  met  on  the  way  to  Maiden  by  our  men  on  their 
march  to  Fort  George  besides  the  enemy  have  many  harbours 
of  Vv'hich  we  know  nothing  and  at  which  they  may  be  erecting 
vessels  of  war,  whose  timber  and  etc.  are  at  places  entirely 
out  of  our  reach  or  conception. 

The  citizens  of  Kentucky  feel  a  deep  interest  in  the  event  of 
future  operations  against  the  enemy  and  I  have  no  doubt  if 
such  measures  for  the  reduction  of  Maiden  was  adopted,  as  to 
promise  success  to  the  enterprise  that  the  inhabitants  of  this 
state  would  litterall.y  rise  in  mass  to  effect  its  destruction,  and 
revenge  the  massacre  of  our  fellow-citizens.  It  would  be  the 
extreme  of  folly  and  madness  to  enter  upper  Canada  with  a 
force  barely  sufficient  to  effect  the  conquest  of  any  particular 
place.  Our  force  should  be  an  imposing  one  aii  army  in  which 
all  would  have  confidence  and  success  not  less  than  from  ten 
to  fifteen  thousand  men — This  would  draw  out  men  of  talents, 
wealth,  and  influence,  from  whose  exertions  and  enterprise 
everything  might  be  expected  that  can  be  achieved  by  any 
set  of  men  on  earth.  But  my  dear  Sir,  if  our  success  is  to 
d('])end  on  half  measures  such  as  have  been  too  often  experi- 

28— 22CG4 


?m  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

cnced  during  the  late  campnigii,  nothing  more  need  be  ex- 
pected from  Kentucky  tlian  what  will  be  coerced  bj'  the  Law 
of  the  Land,  1  wish  sincerely  tliat  tliis  subject  could  ])c  im- 
pres.sed,  deeply  impressed  upon  the  mind  of  our  beloved  Pres- 
ident, that  when  he  does  invest  you  with  power  to  make  a 
d.'ccnt  u])on  Canada,  that  he  would  also  authorize  you  to  call 
for  a  force  competent  to  the  great  object  in  view  nor  do  I 
believe  that  any  force  ought  to  cross  above  until  a  sure  foot- 
hold was  obtained  below  to  keep  the  enemy  imployed  in  that 
(iu'\rter. 

Governor  Edwards  has  recently  informed  me  that  he  has 
obtained  satisfactory  information  that  the  British  agents  are 
cxlcemi^ly  busy  about  the  Lake  Michigan  and  that  quarter. 
That  Dixon  is  embodying  the  Indians  and  has  artillery,  mili- 
tary stores  etc.  at  Chicago.  The  proximity  of  this  place  to 
I"\nt  Wayne  makes  it  highly  probable  that  it  will  be  an  object 
of  attack  early  this  season  and  renders  prudent  every  precau- 
tion which  can  be  taken  to  strengthen  and  secure  it.  Should 
tlie  savages  with  the  aid  of  a  few  pieces  of  artillery  once 
succeed  in  taking  one  of  our  forts,  particularly  as  important 
an  one  as  that  of  Fort  Wayne  it  will  add  much  to  their  Spirit, 
for  enterprise  and  plunder,  and  give  them  a  confidence  in 
thiMi*  own  sti-englh  which  as  yet  they  do  not  possess  when 
bi'ought  in  contact  with  the  more  common  fortifications.  It 
\\ould  also  have  a  very  alarming  effect  I  fear  upon  our  fron- 
tiers. 

WTthin  a  few  weeks  past  several  volunteer  troops  of  six 
months  cavalry  have  been  raised  and  have  reported  them- 
selves to  me  and  make  applications  for  commissions  and  as 
yet  I  have  not  acted  on  them,  not  knowing  that  you  v/ould 
want  them.  You  will  be  pleased  to  notify  me  of  your  wishes 
on  this  subject  and  if  it  is  desirable  I  will  proceed  to  organize 
and  connnission  as  many  as  may  offer,  or  as  you  may  suppose 
you  may  stand  in  need  of. 

I  have  v>'ith  considerable  concern  learned  that  the  ]\Iilitia 
who  served  under  you,  have  not  received  their  pay.  I  do  not 
know  where  the  fault  lies,  nor  that  it  will  be  in  your  power 
to  i-emedy  it,  should  it  be,  I  know  you  will  interpose  with 
cheerfulness.  I  undei'stood  that  Mr.  [Jesse]  Hunt  of  Cin- 
cinati  was  by  stipulation  to  have  come  to  this  state,  and  paid 
over  the  money  to  the  Regime  ntal  paymasters  but  has  failed 


HAIIRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        395 

to  do  so.  I  am  also  informed  that  the  three  Regiments  of  De- 
tached Militia  who  served  under  Genl.  [Samuel]  Hopkins  are 
in  a  similar  situation.  I  have  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of 
your  several  letters  of  the  11th  16th  18th  and  24th  covering 
your  extensive  correspondance  with  the  Secretary  at  War. 
I  am  highly  pleased  with  the  views  you  have  taken  of  our  sit- 
uation, their  general  scope  and  tenor  meet  my  entire  appro- 
bation. 

Accept  my  Dear  Sir  the  Consideration  of  my  high  esteem 
and  regard  and  remain  Yr.  Mo.  Ob.  Servt. 

Isaac  Shelby 
General  Williaim  H.  Harrison 

Com-manding  the  Northwestern  Ariity 

Edvv^ards  to  Shelby 

Kaskaskia,  (I.  T.)  March  22,  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  H8 

A  few  days  ago  I  transmitted  to  you  important  informa- 
tion relative  to  the  British  and  Indians  in  the  upper  parts  of 
this  territory.  An  express  yesterday  brought  me  informa- 
tion that  eighteen  pieces  of  cannon  and  a  British  ofllcer  had 
arrived  at  Prairie  de  Chien.  The  ice  is  now  completely  out  of 
our  rivers.  Some  spies  that  I  sent  up  the  Illinois  river  are 
returned,  reporting  that  they  saw  too  much  Indian  signs  to 
proceed  as  high  up  as  they  were  directed.  The  express  states 
that  an  Indian  was  discovered  a  day  or  two  past  very  near  to 
Fort  Russell — he  evidently  was  a  spy. 

I  have  melancholy  presages  of  what  is  to  happen  in  the  coun- 
try, particularly  at  Prairie  de  Chien,  or  rather  at  the  mouth  of 
the  Ouisconsing.  Should  the  British  take  possession  of  that 
place,  I  need  not  point  out  to  you  the  difficulty  of  retaking  it, 
or  the  importance  of  it  to  them.  By  water  we  should  have  to 
ascend  700  miles,  by  land  not  less  than  400.  Seven  thousand 
Indians  may  easily  be  assembled  at  that  place.  Last  year,  in 
time  of  peace,  there  were  3377  there  in  the  months  of  April 
and  May.  The  following  facts,  which  you  need  not  doubt, 
will  shew  its  importance:  goods  can  be  carried  there  fi'om 
Montreal  by  the  way  of  the  Utawas  river,  more  expeditiously, 
with  less  expense  and  more  safety,  than  by  way  of  the  lakes. 
It  is  a  fact  that  a  canoe  from  Montreal  by  this  route,  arrived 


^'M  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

with  clisi)aU]ics  to  a  gentleman  in  Cahokia  in  30  day^.  On  Jiis 
nlurn  lie  went  in  llie  same  canoe  to  I\Iakanac,  by  the  Illi- 
nois ri\er  and  could  thence  have  descended  to  I\Iontreal  in 
nin(;  days.  The  traders  of  ]\Iontreal  have  passed  from  lake 
8up':)-ior  to  the  Llississippi,  thence  into  the  North  V\"'est.  and 
have  been  brought  into  collision  with  the  Hudson  Hay  Coni- 
jsany.  The  British  can  easily  push  a  trade  up  the  'olumbia 
live)-.  And  combining  all  these  facts,  a  person  tolerably  ac- 
quainted with  geography  of  the  country,  the  nature  of  the  fur- 
trade,  the  inducements  v.'ith  the  North-west  Company  to  retain 
it,  and  the  evident  policy  of  the  British  in  supporting  it,  can 
have  no  doubt  of  their  inducements  to  occupy  the  mouth  of 
the  Ouisconsing. 

These  anticipations  make  me  feel  for  my  country's  honor: 
certainly  it  must  be  destructive  of  its  reputation  to  permit 
such  plans  to  be  realized.  The  point  I  have  mentioned,  once 
fortified,  will  be  more  difTlcult  to  take  than  ]Malden.  I  am  well 
ai)prized  of  all  the  objections  that  may  be  made  to  these 
speculations,  on  the  score  of  provisions ;  but  those  who  make 
them  cannot  know  much  of  the  supplies  that  can  be  furnished 
by  the  settlements  of  Green  bay  (where  there  is  an  elegant 
mercliant  mill,  fine  farms,  &c.)   and  Prairie  de  Chien  itself. 

T  never  c-ould  see  the  advantage  of  so  great  a  struggle  for 
Maldi-n.  ^Montreal  once  taken,  it  would  fall  of  itself;  and  one 
single  expedition  would  drive  to  the  I\Iississippi  country  all 
the  Indians  that  ever  had  intercourse  v/ith  that  place.  It 
would  not  cut  off  the  intercourse  as  has  been  supposed. 

Notwithstanding  I  have  regularly  communicated  inforn.ia- 
tion  which  must  have' shown  what  our  situation  would  be  ;.t 
this  time,  and  notwithstanding  our  present  difiPicultics,  I  a'li 
now  as  I  v,-as  last  year,  totally  without  any  instructions,  act- 
ing upon  my  own  responsibility.  I  have  had  great  success  in 
raising  volunteers  fj'om  the  local  militia;  and  neither  they  nor 
myself  luive  been  idle.  I  again  set  out  tomorrow  for  the 
frcDitiers. 

[NiNiAN  Edwards] 

Floyd  to  Gibson 

-  ;■■-.  -    '  .•-  K  v^  Charles  Town,  ]\Iarch  21,  1S13 

Har.  Pa.  27J,-~76 

Di:ar  Sir: 

On  the  night  of  the  twenty  first  about  one  o'clock  at  night 


*AJB»^aawiiitari*t  iifti»  tftlii*  Wi^iCt«^pWiW.ll;iA-> 


PIARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        397 

I  IukI  informatioii  that  the  Lidiaiis  had  attacked  a  house  about 
7  miles  from  this  phice  and  had  kiHed  and  wounded  several 
of  the  family  I  ai'ose  tho  in  veiy  ill  health  and  at  sun  up  was 
at  the  place  with  about  twenty  men.  We  found  the  owner  of 
the  liouse  a  Mr  Huffman  killed,  his  wife  badly  wounded  and 
one  of  his  daughters  slightly  wounded  and  a  little  boy  his 
grandson,  missing,  the  Indians  had  also  killed  two  horses  and 
stripped  the  saddle,  and  bridles  off  them  and  taken  them  off 
after  a  little  examination  \ye  found  a  ti'ace  made  by  horses  and 
pursued  it  after  a  very  forced  march  of  about  20  miles  came 
up  with  the  Indians  four  in  number,  they  had  been  detained 
crossing  T^Iushkaqueteck  which  v^^as  very  high  and  when  we 
came  in  sight  1  believe  that  they  were  just  getting  out  of  the 
I'iver  on  the  opposite  shore.  I  put  spurs  to  my  hors  and  be- 
foi-e  they  had  time  to  mount  was  on  the  oposite  bank  say  thirty 
0]-  forty  yards  apart  one  of  the  Indians  who  was  either  more 
unwilling  or  more  unable  to  leave  the  horses  than  the  rest 
was  in  the  act  of  picking  up  his  little  cloathing  and  before 
I  was  prepared  to  fire  he  had  retreated  say  twenty  steps  he 
again  halted  and  stooped  down  appearing  to  be  trying  to  get 
on  a  mokison  and  while  in  that  attitude  I  took  deliberate  aim 
at  his  body  perfectly  fair  as  soon  as  my  gun  fired  he  sprung 
to  his  feet  and  turned  and  walked  off  from  all  appearance  un- 
able to  run  and  where  he  had  halted  left  one  leggin  his  knap- 
sack with  all  his  little  trinkets,  I  immediately  ordered  such  of 
the  men  as  were  riding  the  stoutest  horses  to  plunge  in  and 
swim  across  but  in  doing  so  out  of  five  who  made  the  attempt 
(myself  amongst  the  number)  only  two  guns  were  dry  and 
two  of  that  number  were  like  to  be  drowned  upo])  attempting 
to  pursue  I  found  that  they  had  scattered  and  made  to  poor 
dry  ridges  where  they  could  not  be  tracked.  The  bottom  of 
the  crick  was  all  covered  with  water  and  we  could  find  no 
blood.  After  I  shot  I  believe  there  were  nine  or  ten  others 
fired  at  the  same  fellows  back  and  him  ',\'alking  ofi'  before  he 
got  out  of  our  gunshot.  We  brought  in  the  horses  and  all  the 
little  plunder  which  they  had. 
In  great  haste  I  am  Respectfully 

Your  Obedient  Servant 

Davis  Floyd 


398  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

March  27tli,  ISir. 

From  Gorciio-r  Is<uic  Shclbii's  "Leflcr  Dnok  A",  70 

Dr.  Sir: 

1  have  the  honour  to  aclmowlodgc  Llic  receipt  last  evening 
of  \oiu-  favor  of  the  23rd  inst.,  together  with  a  copy  of  the 
letter  of  the  Se::retavy  of  War  of  the  5th  inst.,  to  you  and  copy 
of  your  answer  thereto  also  duplicate  of  your  letter  to  me  of 
the  12th  inst..  Ou  the  20th  inst.,  I  had  the  honour  of  answer- 
ing your  letter  of  the  12th  and  of  giving  you  some  of  my  vievrs 
of  liie  (M-isuing  campaign.  On  the  same  day  I  addressed  a  let- 
ter to  tlie  Secrc'tai-y  at  War  on  tlnit  subject  I  inclose  a  copy 
of  it  for  your  information. 

In  these  letters  you  v/ill  see  tliat  I  have  expressed  in  strong 
language  my  opini'.^.ss  of  the  importance  of  urging  a  much 
stronger  force  for  the  invasion  of  upper  Canada  tlian  is  con- 
templated by  the  Secretary  at  War.  I  see  no  cause  to  change 
my  opinions  on  this  subject.  It  is  to  be  hoped  that  our  orders 
which  will  arrive  near  about  the  same  time,  strongly  urgin 
tlie  same  measure  and  written  without  any  interchange  of 
ideas  between  us,  may  induce  our  venerable  president  to  think 
din'ert-ntly  on  the  subject  should  it  not  I  have  serious  doubt 
of  tlie  issue  of  tlie  campaign. 

It  is  extremely  gratifying  to  me  to  learn  that  there  is  a 
prospect  of  our  obtaining  the  command  of  Lake  Erie  and  the 
waters  above,  the  importance  of  this  measure  is  incalcuable. 
I  onl.N'  v/onder  that  it  was  not  sooner  duly  appreciated — v^ith 
the  perfect  command  of  the  lakes  and  suflicency  of  v^atercrafi 
It  does  not  seem  to  me  very  important  where  is  the  point  of 
embarkation  that  it  must  be  in  part  from  the  rapids  I  ha\(; 
!io  doubt  because  the  mih'tary  stores  &c.,  are  alread:,-  too  far 
in  advance  to  be  taken  to  anothei'  Point.  I  am  not  sunicienti>- 
ac'iuaintc^d  with  the  Canada  side  of  lake  Erie  to  say  whether 
it  will  be  l)est  to  commence  the  attack  below  Maiden  in  pref- 
ei-ence  to  going  round  the  head  of  the  Lake.  I  am  thoroughly 
convinced  of  the  absolute  necessity  of  a  consido'able  force  of 
Cavalry  or  mounted  Infantry  in  the  advnnce  without  it  you 
v/il!  l.x-  pe]'petu;dly  hai'rassed  by  small  parties  of  Indians  who 
v>ill  defy  tlie  pursuit  of  footmen— as  they  retreat  singly  that 
is  each  warrior  at  his  own  will  and  on  his  own  force — and 


PIARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        300 

can  only  be  pursued  by  a  reguliu'  force  or  the  pursuit  will  al- 
ways be  in  danger  of  being-  cut  off.  If  this  body  of  horse  can- 
not with  perfect  safety  be  taken  across  the  Lake  the  embarka- 
tion at  Cleveland  should  in  my  opinion  be  given  up. 

One  advantage  i-csulting  from  the  plan  of  the  Secretary  at 
War  will  be  that  our  preparatioiis  will  be  much  better  masked 
and  there  will  be  a  strong  probability  that  you  v/ould  so  far 
take  them  by  surprise  as  to  avoid  the  meeting  of  a  very  strong 
force  befoi'e  you  readi  ^Maiden,  you  would  also  in  all  probabil- 
ity stand  a  better  c"  mce  to  have  an  equal  selection  of  the 
ground  for  a  general  action,  should  one  be  offered  you,  than 
if  you  were  to  go  round  the  Lake — Should  you  on  the  other 
hand  go  round  the  head  of  the  Lake  &  have  a  General  action 
v:ith  the  British  and  Indians  and  gain  a  decided  victory,  it 
will  in  my  opinion  if  well  follovred  up  decide  the  Indian  War 
and  the  fate  of  upper  Canada,  particularly  if  in  the  meantime 
the  forces  on  the  Niagra  should  make  good  their  attack  upon 
Fort  George  and  the  adjoining  country — 

As  much  as  I  deprecate  the  mode  of  warfare  pursued  by 
the  savages,  I  deem  it  indispensible  that  you  should  employ 
as  many  of  those  that  remain  friendly  to  us  as  you  can,  noth- 
ing but  a  clean  ignorance  of  the  true  Indian  character  could 
induce  a  belief  that  they  can  be  kept  neutral,  and  if  they 
could  some  will  always  be  found  among  them  who  would  carry 
news  to  our  cr.emies,  employ  them  and  let  them  commit  them- 
selves by  acts  of  hostility  and  they  will  in  their  own  defense 
be  faithful  to  us, 

After  the  cold  blooded  masacre  at  Raison  in  violation  of 
the  solemn  stipulation  of  a  capitulation,  to  refrain  from  em- 
ploying them  against  the  enemy  out  of  refined  ideas  of  human- 
ity would  be  folly  in  the  extreme.  Our  enemy  can  never  be 
taught  the  rules  of  civilized  warfare  but  by  retaliation. 

I  feel  also  well  satisfied  that  tlr'ough  the  number  you  will 
be  able  to  engage  they  will  be  amongst  the  most  valuable  of 
your  troops,  and  I  am  much  mistaken  if  they  will  not  be  found 
as  cheap  as  any  other  forces  employed — But  were  that  not 
the  case  ^ve  must  meet  the  enemy  in  his  own  mode  of  v/arfare 
if  he  is  bountiful  to  the  Indians  on  his  side  we  must  not  be 
nigardly  to  those  on  ours.  It  is  certainly  more  economical  to 
pay  say  500  warriors  two  prices  than  to  have  to  pay  the  addi- 
tional troops  which  would  be  required  were  they  to  go  over 
to  the  enemv. 


400  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

A  considorable  number  of  Cavahy  and  mounted  Infantry 
can  no  doubt  be  raised  and  organized  liere  in  a  Short  time, 
it  will  take  a  longer  period  to  organize  ordinary  Infantry — 
and  there  can  be  no  doubt  but  you  will  stand  in  need  of  thein 
I  know  not  v>diat  steps  may  be  taking  to  raise  the  two  Ohio 
Regiments  spoken  of  by  the  Secretary  at  Wai^  in  his  letter  to 
you  as  to  the  regiment  to  be  raised  in  this  State  I  am  not  yet 
informed  that  the  appointments  of  any  of  the  Officers  have 
been  made  I  am  positive  you  need  not  calculate  anything  on  it 
for  certain  by  the  middle  of  May,  men  cannot  be  so  easily 
inlisted  as  to  fill  the  ranks  in  less  time  than  it  took  Congress 
to  pass  the  bill. 

If  you  should  be  authorized  to  make  a  further  call  on  the 
Executive  of  this  State,  I  shall  hold  myself  in  readiness  to  raise 
and  organize  with  the  least  possible  delay  the  forces  that  may 
be  required  should  it  afford  me  an  opportunity  of  seeing  you 
personally,  I  shall  my  dear  sir  feel  myself  highly  gratified. 

I  received  on  last  evening  by  Express  a  letter  from  Col 
[William]  Russell  of  the  7th  U.  S.  Regt.  requesting  my  co- 
operation in  a  contemplated  expedition  against  the  Indians  on 
the  Wabash — as  I  forward  by  this  mail  a  letter  from  Col. 
Russell  to  you  brought  by  the  express  it  will  no  doubt  give 
you  his  views,  a  copy  of  my  answer  to  him,  I  have  the  honour 
to  enclose  for  your  information. 

Isaac  Shelby 
To  General  Wm.  H.  Harrison 

'  -  '^       .     '     Harrison  to  Secretary  op  War 

.     Headquarters  CINCINNATI  27th  March  1813 

',  .■  :  •    -■  Har.  Pa.  900-969 

(No.  47)  '         ; 

Sir: 

I  had  the  honor  to  receive  your  favor  of  the  7th  Inst,  [see 
above]  on  Tuesday  last,  and  should  have  ansv/cred  it  by  the 
return  of  the  mail  but  was  misinformed  as  to  the  time  of  its 
departure. 

Those  of  the  15th  and  17th  [see  above]  arrived  last  evening. 
Had  your  letter  of  the  5tli  been  received  before  the  measures 
foi'  bringing  out  the  Militia  which  I  had  requested  from  the 
State  of  Kentu(  ky  had  ])rogressed  so  far  that  the  day  of  Gen- 
eral Rendezvous  had  been  ai»pointed  and  the  men  left  their 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        401 

Homes,  I  should  have  requested  Govr.  Shelby  to  countermand 
the  order  for  calHng  them  out  altho  I  am  well  eonvined  that 
if  they  are  delayed  four  weeks  we  shall  scarcely  have  a  post 
remaining  upon  this  frontier.  The  Militia  which  have  been 
embodied  from  this  state  upon  my  last  requisition  are  not 
sufficient  to  garrison  the  small  posts. 

One  of  the  Divisions  furnished  Forty  instead  of  Two  hun- 
dred and  fifty  men. 

In  your  letter  of  the  5th  Inst.  I  am  authorized  to  maintain 
or  abandon  the  post  at  the  Rapids  of  Miami  as  the  o]i.e  or  the 
other  may  appear  most  proper  under  the  circumstances  which 
you  mention. 

It  could  not  be  abandoned  without  sacrificing  the  Artillery 
and  valuable  stores  which  are  there,  and  which  no  Human 
Means  that  I  know  of  could  bring  off  through  the  Swamps 
that  soround  that  place  at  this  Season,  to  attempt  to  bring 
them  up  the  Miami  and  Auglaize  Rivers  would  from  the  length 
of  time  that  it  would  take,  expose  the  Detachment  escorting 
them  to  inevitable  destruction.  I  had  therefore  no  alternative 
but  to  maintain  the  post.  It  is  safe  from  the  attempts  of  the 
enemy  untill  Lake  Erie  is  navigable  and  as  long  as  the  Vir- 
ginia and  Pennsylvania  Brigades  of  Militia  remain  there.  On 
the  2d  proximo,  however  the  last  of  these  Troops  will  be  dis- 
charged. If  it  is  not  then  strongly  reinforced  it  will  be  in 
considerable  danger.  A  smaller  work  would  have  been  more 
def  en  sable. 

But  I  must  confess  that  the  Idea  never  occurred  to  me  that 
the  Government  would  be  unwilling  to  keep  in  the  field  at  least 
the  semblance  of  an  army  of  Militia  until  the  regular  Troops 
could  be  raised.  A  regular  strong  work  calculated  for  Three 
or  four  hundred  men  could  have  been  erected  but  with  that 
force  only  at  the  Rapids  there  could  be  no  possible  impediment 
to  the  enemy  in  taking  all  the  small  Forts  in  the  rear,  except- 
ing McArthurs  Findleys  and  Upper  Sandusky  wliicli  are 
sorounded  by  a  swamp.  There  are  Three  hundred  Indian 
Warriors  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Upper  Sandusky  (Wyajidots 
and  a  mixture  of  Delawares  and  Munsees).  Their  fiicndship 
towards  us  is  by  no  means  unequivocal.  An  army  of  ours  in 
their  front  will  ensure  their  neutrality,  but  that  army  dis- 
missed and  a  British  and  Indian  force  appearing  amongst 
them  nine  tenths  of  these  warriors  would  inevitably  join  them. 


402  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

The  posts  of  Upper  and  Lo^vo^  Snncliislcy  would  fall  and  the 
vviiole  frontier  as  far  as  Delaware  at  least,  would  be  swept  of 
its  inhabitants.  Further  west  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of 
Fort  McArthur  whore  we  have  a  large  deposit  of  stores  there 
are  one  or  two  hundred  Shawanoes  and  a  mixture  of  Iroquois. 
Their  friendship  for  us  is  more  to  be  depended  on.  But 
should  the  enemy  appear  in  force  a  great  part  of  the  young 
men  would  certainly  join  them.  Fort  McArthur  has  not  a 
man  to  defend  it.  Gov.  Meigs  sent  there  two  companies  called 
out  for  thirty  days  and  they  abandoned  it  at  the  expiration 
of  that  time.  Still  further  v/est  upon  the  Head  of  the  Auglaize 
River  is  the  large  Shawanoe  village  of  Wapochkonneta  the 
chiefs  of  which,  are  altogether  in  our  interest  and  may  be  re- 
lied upon.  But  the  warriors  like  all  others  of  their  descrip- 
tion might  be  easily  seduced.  Near  to  the  village  of  Piqua 
the  Delav/ares  to  the  amount  of  nine  hundred  souls  and  up- 
wards of  two  hundred  warriors  are  encamped.  Their  chiefs 
are  men  of  principle,  but  the  greater  part  of  their  warriors 
are  attached  to  the  enemy  and  would  join  them  whenever  an 
opportunity  offered.  The  disaffected  can  at  any  time  they 
please  communicate  with  the  Hostile  Indians.  The  posts  of 
Wapockkanata  Lorimers — St.  Marys — Amanda — Jennings — 
BroMTi  and  Winchester  (consisting  of  Block  Houses,  connected 
by  pickets  and  having  the  immense  supplies  of  provisions  con- 
tained in  the  enclosed  schedule)  are  immediately  in  the  front 
of  these  people.  Untill  the  arrival  of  the  newly  drafted  Mili- 
tia from  this  state  the  force  for  the  defence  of  all  these  posts 
consisted  of  eighteen  invalid  regulars  and  a  weak  and  worth- 
less company  of  dismounted  Rangers.  As  soon  as  Lake  Erie 
is  navigable  the  enemy  could  in  six  hours  reach  the  post  of 
the  Miami  Rapids  or  Sandusky  bay  with  all  their  disposable 
force,  and  with  any  quantity  of  Artillery  which  they  choose 
to  bring.  Admitting  that  the  post  at  the  Rapids  could  not 
have  been  taken  (but  what  work  with  no  greater  natural  ad- 
vantages than  that  possesses  could  long  resist  a  superior  force, 
with  the  immense  train  of  battering  Artillery  which  the  enemy 
could  with  such  facility  bring  to  bear  upon  it)  without  an 
army  there  capable  of  opposing  the  enemy  in  the  field,  nothing 
could  prevent  them  f]'om  taking  all  our  posts  in  the  i-ear  and 
I  have  before  stated  that  they  would  find  friends  \hviv  willing 
to  assist  them  in  all  tlieir  enterprises.     It  may  be  objected  that 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        40:; 

Ui.>  retaining  the  post  at  the  Rapids  was  injudicious.  I  an- 
swer]- that  at  the  time  it  was  occupied  I  had  the  strongest  liopes 
oi"  being  enabled  to  advance  against  Maiden  and  having  gotten 
on  tliere  the  artillery  and  stores  when  the  ground  was  frozen 
llipy  could  not  have  been  taken  back,  But  there  were  many, 
\rr\-  many,  other  considerations  which  determined  me  to  re- 
l.-n'ii  tluit  ])osition.  It  is  only  necessary  for  me  to  mention 
one  of  tliem.  The  greater  part  of  the  supplies  for  the  oper- 
ation of  the  ensuing  season  v\^ere  placed  upon  the  Auglaize  and 
St.  Marys.  Those  rivers  arc  navigable  in  the  spring  only.  At 
that  season  they  could  be  transported  in  boats  to  the  Rapids 
for  one-twentieth  part  of  the  expense  which  it  would  cost  to 
take  them  by  Land.  Should  the  Rapids  be  abandoned  they 
could  not  be  reoccupied  until  the  season  for  navigating  the 
small  rivers  v/ould  have  passed.  With  this  view  of  the  sub- 
ject I  could  not  hesitate  (as  I  conceived  that  I  possessed  the 
P}"esidents  authority  for  doing  it)  to  call  for  a  sufiicient  num- 
ber of  ]Militia  to  ensure  an  effective  force  at  the  Rapids  of  from 
hiteen  hundred  to  two  thousand  and  I  regret  that  I  have  not 
the  power  of  calling  for  as  many  more  men  effectually  to  cover 
Foit  Wayne  and  the  other  posts  in  that  direction.  For  the 
former  I  entertain  great  apprehensions.  In  a  letter  addressed 
to  Colo.  Monroe  in  January  last,  I  explained  the  facility,  with 
which  an  attack  upon  that  place  may  be  made  from  Chicago. 
I  flid  not  believe  however  that  there  would  be  much  danger, 
until  Lake  Michigan  was  navigable  but  if  the  information 
[x\lar.  22  above]  received  by  Govr.  Shelby  from  Govr.  Ed- 
wards is  correct,  it  may  be  invested  much  earlier.  I  have  v/ith 
the  army  two  Capts.  of  Engineers  (one  of  them  Capt. 
[Charles]  Gratiott)  has  been  ill  for  many  weeks,  Captain 
[Eleazer  Derby]  Wood  was  sent  to  improve  the  work  at  Lower 
Sandusky.  I  shall  order  him  immediately  to  Fort  Wayne  for 
the  same  purpose.  The  latter  was  once  a  strong  i-egular  work 
a  fatal  and  false  econimy  caused  it  to  be  destroyed  and  a  small 
picketted  v/ork  substituted. 

The  order  to  the  Q.  blasters  and  Commissarys  for  the  set- 
tling their  accounts  has  been  given;  the  measure  is  no  doubt 
a  proper  one  altho  the  high  character  of  the  principals  of  those 
Departments  is  a  warrant  for  the  correctness  of  their  conduct. 

The  pack  Horses  which  were  uiifit  for  service  have  been 
sold.     The  rest  together  with  those  purcha.sed  for  the  Artillery 


tOI  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

tsa%'c  !>oi-n  ])laccd  in  situations  where  they  can  be  cheaply  fed 
\<)  Vivrwli.  This  direction  was  given  before  I  received  your 
loiter  inlorniin^  me  that  means  were  taken  to  obtain  the  naval 
-.u!Krio)'iiy  upon  Lake  Erie.  As  I  am  still  apprehensive  that 
\v=<  may  fail  in  tliat  desirable  object,  the  Horses  Vvill  be  kept 
iiS  liuy  arc  until  your  further  order  is  received. 

Thr  construction  which  is  put  upon  the  last  law  raising  the 
p.\y  of  tiu'  Troops  excludes  the  volunteers  vrhich  were  in  serv- 
jre  before  the  31st  of  December  last  from  its  benefits.  Noth- 
snj?  could  be  more  galling  to  the  feelings  of  this  small  but 

•  iatriuiic  and  gallant  band  than  such  a  distinction.  A  com- 
l»;usy  or  ivaop  of  this  description  are  in  the  same  camp  with 
mhc  of  Regulars  and  one  of  Militia.  The  former  enlisted  at 
tho  ^.lUiH"  time  vrith  the  volunteers  and  perform  duty  in  com- 
n.x.tn  with  tliem,  yet  the  services  of  the  regulars  are  considered 
.'.s  wortit  three  dollars  per  month  more  than  the  volunteers,  a 

•  ju?*,jiari.son  with  the  situation  of  the  IMilitia  is  still  more 
.vJiou.^  to  the  volunteers.  The  former  have  been  forced  into 
?-rrvice  for  six  months,  the  latter  have  entered  voluntarily  for 
i-,vcivc-- under  these  circumstances  the  volunteers  will  con- 
lin\n*  to  do  their  duty  but  I  greatly  fear  that  the  zeal  and 
ar\|<jur  for  which  they  were  remarkable  will  be  found  to  have 
k'l-JsUy  abated  if  not  entirely  fled. 

1  have  the  lionor  to  bo  with  great  respect  Yr.  Hb.  Servt 

WiLLM.  Henry  HarrisOxN 
Hoi.bk?  John  AtIxMstrong,  Secretary  of  War 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
/    .        ■  ■      •        Head  Quarters  Cincinnati  28th  March  1813 

''■■"■"      '    '  Har.  Pa.  Q77-9S2 

Frivate.  .     ;. 

I  iiave  thought  it  my  duty  to  enclose  you  a  Letter  just  re- 
finvfcl  from  <;ovr.  Shelby,  [see  March  27,  above]  I  am  well 
coFiviru-cd  that  the  sentiments  it  contains  are  common  to  the 
wliolo  western  country,  and  that  they  will  not  only  affect  calls 
U-:T  militia,  wliiL-li  (1,0  Governor  may  make  both  as  to  the  num- 
;'-  '>i  ajid  quality  of  the  men,  but  will  have  great  and  unfriendly 
mfluence  upon  the  recruiting  of  the  12  months  Regulars. ,  In 
Hie  bi-lief  that  the  government  is  about  to  employ  a  smaller 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        -305 

force  against  Canada  than  tliat  of  the  enemy  would  justify 
in  raising  the  contemplated  Regiments  vre  shall  have  not  on.ly 
to  contend  with  thic  clamor  of  the  usual  opposers  of  the  ad- 
ministration, but  the  tenderness  of  parents  and  even  a  false 
patriotism  itself  will  be  strenuously  exerted,  to  prevent  the 
youth  of  the  country  from  going  into  what  is  termed  certain 
destruction.  It  i  impossible  that  the  impolicy  of  relying  upon 
IMilitia,  for  the  prosecution  of  the  war,  can  be  more  strongly 
impressed  upon  the  mind  of  any  person  than  it  is  upon  mine. 
If  I  had  had  tvro  thousand  regular  troops,  after  the  defeat 
of  Genl.  Winchester  instead  of  four  thousand  ]\Iilitia  vre  should 
at  this  moment  have  been  in  possession  of  Llaiden  and  the 
fleet  of  the  enemy.  But  IMilitia  can  only  be  employed  with 
effect,  to  accomplish  a  single  distinct  object,  which  will  require 
little  time  and  not  much  delay,  on  the  way.  We  last  year  com- 
mitted errors,  which  has  cost  the  nation  enormous  sums. 
Thousands  of  men  were  hurried  to  the  field  before  it  was  rec- 
ollected that  they  would  require  subsistence,  ammunition  and 
artillery.     We  have  now  everything  of  this  kind  in  abundance. 

The  object  is  distinctly  before  us  there  is  no  necessity  for 
those  delays  which  evaporate  the  spirit  of  men,  who  cannot 
remain  long  from  their  families  and  which  causes  such  heavy 
drafts  upon  the  public  funds. 

We  can  fix  the  day  when  our  operations  shall  commence. 
Not  a  moment  need  be  lost.  Not  a  day  paid  for  but  what  is 
employed  in  actual  service.  I  have  often  stated  to  the  Gov- 
ernment that  in  the  invasion  of  Upper  Canada  the  acfval  force 
of  the  enemy  will  be  in  an  inverted  ratio  to  ours :  if  we  are 
weak  they  will  be  strong,  if  Vv'e  are  strong  their  actual  strength 
will  diminish,  in  proportion  to  the  opinion  which  the  Indians 
may  have  of  the  dificulty  of  resisting  us.  The  present  ap- 
pearances upon  our  frontier  are  well  calculated  to  inspire  con- 
fidence in  the  hostile  Indians.  It  is  decidedly  my  opinion  that 
the  employment  of  a  large  force  would  not  only  be  most  cer- 
tain, but  in  the  end  most  econnomical.  I  do  not  think  that  the 
Regular  troops  contemplated  to  be  raised  in  the  western  coun- 
try can  be  procured.  There  is  at  any  rate  no  other  way  of 
getting  them  than  by  suffering  it  to  be  made  public  that  sucli 
a  force  will  be  employed  as  v/ill  give  universal  confidence.  1 
think  that  authority  ought  to  bo  given  to  employ  volunteer 
corps  of  every  description  many  of  them  can  be  procured 


406  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

which  would  agree  to  serve  forty  or  fifty  days  after  their  a]-- 
rival  at  the  Rapids  who  would  care  nothing  for  pay.  Let  a 
considerable  army  advance  from  the  Rapids  towai'd  IMalden 
and  the  Indians  who  may  not  have  joined  the  British  standard 
will  suspend  their  operations  against  our  frontiers  until  they 
see  the  result.  The  command  of  the  Lakes  will  give  facility 
to  our  operations,  and  the  expense  of  the  vessels  v»'ill  nearly 
be  paid  for  by  the  saving  in  land  transportation.  I  greatly 
however  fear  that  the  naval  superiority  upon  the  upper  Lakes 
will  not  be  obtained  and  if  it  is  not,  what  will  be  our  situation 
unless  we  are  prepared  to  take  the  other  course.  In  my  offi- 
cial letter  I  have  observed,  that  if  I  had  the  power  I  would 
can  out  the  ballance  of  the  Three  thousand  men  which  have 
been  organized  in  Kentucky  for  the  protection  of  Fort  Wayne 
etc.  I  will  only  add  that  if  any  disaster  happens  to  any  of  the 
posts  for  the  want  of  troops  to  protect  them,  the  popularity 
of  the  administration  in  the  western  country  will  receive  a 
shock  [from]  which  it  will  never  recover. 

Nothing  is  so  painful  as  to  be  obliged  to  denounce  an  In- 
dividual and  yet  I  should  not  do  my  duty  If  I  were  not  to  rec- 
ommend that  the  accounts  of  Mr.  [Joseph]  Wheaton  an  Asst. 
Dp.  Q.  Mr.  be  most  critically  examined.  He  expended  thirteen 
or  fourteen  thousand  dollars  in  bringing  on  the  part  of  the 
artillery  and  stores  from  Pittsburgh  to  U.  Sandusky  and  I 
cannot  conceive  how  it  could  cost  half  the  sum 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  Yr.  Hb.  Svt 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honbl.  John  Armstrong,  Esq.  Secy,  of  War 

Gibson  to  Secretary  of  War 

ViNCENNES  Marh  31st,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  271-273 

Sir: 

Since  I  last  had  the  honor  of  addressing  you  upon  the  sub- 
ject of  the  removal  of  Fort  Knox,  I  have  had  the  disagreeable 
moi'lification  of  suffering  the  grossest  insult  I  ever  experienced 
in  my  life.  Understanding  that  the  greater  part  of  the  timber 
necessary  for  the  erection  of  the  Fort,  was  brought  down  here, 
and  receiving  an  intemation  that  Lieut.  Tho.  H.  Richardson 
of  the  U.  S.  Troops,  intended  to  assume  to  himself  the  author- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        407 

ity  of  fixing  upon  the  scite,  I  informed  him  by  a  note  in  writ- 
ing that  so  soon  as  1  was  notified  by  him  that  the  necessary 
timber  was  brought  to  Vincennes  I  would  then  fix  upon  and 
inform  him  of  the  site  inclosing  him  at  the  same  time  a  Copy 
of  the  Honrablc  the  late  Secretary  of  War's  letter  to  me  au- 
thorizing the  removal  of  Fort  Knox  to  or  near  this  place.  But 
notvrithstanding  this  condescention  on  my  part  this  young 
Gentlemen  has  taken  upon  himself  not  onlj''  without  my  con- 
sent but  contrary  to  my  opinion  to  commence  the  building  of 
the  Fort  and  that  too  in  the  most  disadvantageous  and  useless 
place  in  or  adjacent  to  the  whole  town. 

I  presume  Sir,  that  this  young  man  would  not  have  assumed 
the  authority  and  evinced  the  barefaced  affontery  of  the  erec- 
tion of  the  Fort  without  having  previously  consulted  me  had 
it  not  been  owing  to  the  malicious  council  of  Capt.  [Ambrose] 
Whitlock  and  a  Mr.  Butler.  I  disdain  complaining  in  the  gen- 
eral but  when  a  circumstance  so  malicious  and  disrespectful 
as  the  above  and  which  I  am  convinced  is  intended  not  only  as 
an  insult  upon  myself  but  the  Government  I  think  myself 
measurable  bound  to  communicate  it  to  you.  Whilst  upon  this 
subject  Sir,  permit  me  to  relate  another  part  of  Lieut  Richard- 
son conduct,  one  which  proves  a  great  degree  of  vreakness  or 
venality.  Last  fall  when  Fort  Harrison  was  beseiged  by  the 
Indians  and  Col.  [William]  Russell  had  hastily  marched  for 
its  relief  It  became  necessary  to  forward  provisions  not  only 
for  the  Col.'s  forces  but  also  for  the  Garrison  and  the  Con- 
tractor was  dispatching  a  number  of  waggons  under  an  Es- 
cort of  one  hundred  and  thirty  odd  men  furnished  by  me.  In 
a  conversation  with  I\Ir.  Richardson  upon  the  subject  of  for- 
warding supplies  to  fort  Harrison  I  informed  him  of  this  cir- 
cumstance and  advised  him  to  take  advantage  of  this  oppor- 
tunity if  he  had  any  stores  to  forward — he  promised  me  he 
would  but  suffered  the  opportunity  to  slip  by  and  a  few  days 
afterwards  came  to  me  and  informed  me  that  he  intended  to 
send  off  a  Mr.  Black  and  his  Waggon  under  and  Escort  of  a 
Sargeant  and  twelve  men.  I  disuadcd  him  from  the  measure 
observing  to  him  that  times  were  extremely  dangerous,  the 
guard  very  small  and  that  in  my  opinion  they  stood  a  great 
chance  of  being  cut  off.  The  result  proved  the  correctness 
of  my  advice.  The  Escort  were  completely  defeated  with  the 
loss  of  seven  killed  and  one  or  two  wounded  the  waggon  cut 


408  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

to  pieces  and  all  the  public  property  destroyed  by  tlie  Indians. 
Ui\  Black  (a  private  citizen  of  this  Territory)  \vet  lying  out 
of  deserved  remuneration  for  his  losses  and  services  and  drove 
to  a  suit  against  this  Lieut  Richardson  which  is  now  depend- 
ing in  our  General  court.  ■  Upon  the  arrival  of  Col.  Russell 
here   (a  few  days  since)   I  informed  him  of  the  Conduct  of 
Lieut  Richardson  and  Ui\  Butler  to  which  the  Col.  replied  he 
would  arrest  them  provided  I  would  prefer  charges  against 
them,  to  this  I  answered  that  I  would  not,  but  that  I  would 
refer  the  matter  to  you.     The  Indians  are  extremely  trouble- 
some to  the  citizens  upon  our  frontier.     One  man  has  been 
recently  killed  and  others  wounded  near  Vellonea.     another 
(a  W.  Huffman)  killed  a  part  of  his  family  wounded  an  a  part 
supposed  to  be  taken  prisoners  within  seven  miles  of  Charles 
Town.     A  succinct  [account]  of  which  you  will  find  in  the  in- 
closed letter  [see  Mar.  24  above]  to  which  I  beg  leave  to  refer 
you.     A  barge  loaded  with  supplies  for  Fort^  Harrison  was 
the  other  day  attacked  by  a  pretty  considerable  party  of  In- 
dians within  six  miles  of  the  Fort  (in  ascending)  and  defeated. 
One  of  the  hands  killed  and  a  number  wounded.     The  boat 
and  ballance  of  the  crew  have  returned  to  this  place.     Today 
two  other  boats  have  been  dispatched  by  Col.  Rusell  for  Fort 
Harrison  under  a  strong  Escort  and  tomorrow  he  sends  off  a 
party  of  one  hundred  and  odd  Rangers  by  land  for  the  same 
place.     A  part  of  those  rangers  are  those  who  have  lately  ten- 
dered me  their  services  of  which  there  is  one  companv'from 
this  county   (Knox)   and  one  other  from  Jefferson.     By  an 
Act  of  the  last  Session  of  the  Legislature  of  this  Territory  the 
Seat  of  Government  is  to  be  removed  to  Corydon.     The  Gov- 
ernor and  Secretary  are  by  the  same  law  permitted  to  reside 
wherever  they  please  in  the  Territory.     I  shall  reside  in  Jeff  er- 
sonville  where  I  shall  of  course  keep  my  office. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir 

Your  devoted  Humble  Servant 
Hon.  John  Armstrong  Sect,  of  War  '^^"^  Gibson 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters  CinciNxNati  30  I\Iarch  1813 

Sir.*  Har.  Pa.  9S3,  SSIt 

I  have  just  received  letters  from  the  I\Iiami  Rapids  inform- 
ing me  of  the  determination  of  the  Virginia  and  Pennsylvania 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        409 

Militia  that  are  now  there,  to  leave  that  place  the  very  mo- 
ment that  their  time  of  service  expires  even  if  the  troops 
destined  to  relieve  them  should  not  have  arrived.  The  dis- 
agreeable circumstances  of  one  of  our  men  having  been  taken 
by  the  enemy  will  apprize  them  of  the  situation  of  the  post 
and  will  I  fear  induce  them  to  undertake  some  enterprise 
against  it  before  it  can  be  reinforced.  I  have  determined 
tb.erefore  to  set  out  early  tomorrow  for  Camp  ]\Ieigs  by  the 
way  of  St.  ]\Iarys  Colo.  [John]  IMiller  with  about  120  Regulars 
and  80  militia  of  the  state  will  I  hope  be  ready  to  descend  the 
Auglaize  the  day  after  tomorrow  in  boats  and  will  arrive  at 
the  Rapids  in  three  days — there  are  also  about  180  of  the 
Ohio  militia  building  boats  at  Fort  Findlay  about  44  miles 
from  the  Rapids  and  150  of  these  have  been  ordered  to  pro- 
ceed thither  immediately. 

A  company  of  the  Kentucky  ^Militia  reached  Ne\\TDort  yes- 
terday and  others  will  arrive  in  a  day  or  two.  Having  a  num- 
ber of  Pack  Horses  in  the  neighbourhood  I  have  determined 
to  employ  them  to  expedite  the  I\Iarch  of  a  few  of  those  com- 
panies by  assigning  one  of  them  to  every  two  men. 

I\Iy  uneasiness  at  the  situation  of  Camp  [Meigs  is  greatly 
increased  from  the  state  of  the  weather  for  some  time  past 
which  will  render  Lake  Erie  navigable  much  earlier  than 
usual.  The  Indians  have  connnenced  their  depredations  nearly 
all  round  the  frontiers.  The  people  are  much  alarmed.  I 
must  take  the  liberty  again  of  stating  my  belief  that  it  will 
be  necessary  to  call  out  the  remaining  part  of  the  jNIilitia  that 
have  been  organized  for  service  in  Kentucky  and  that  they 
be  marched  in  the  direction  of  Fort  Wa3me  advanced  of  St. 
Marys  where  they  can  be  supported  easily  and  when  they  will 
overawe  the  Indian  tribes  in  that  quarter  and  protect  our  de- 
posits of  provisions,  as  well  as  cover  the  Frontiers. 

I  am  with  great  Respect  Sir  Yr.  Humble  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  The  Secretary  of  War 

Tipton  to  Gibson 

April,  [1?]  1813 

Cockrum,  Pioneer  History  Indiana,  372 

Since  I  have  had  command  of  the  militia  on  the  borders  of 
Harrison  and  Clark  counties,  the  Indians  have  caused  us  much 

29—22664 


410  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

trouble  and  murdered  a  number  of  citizens  on  tlie  frontiers 
of  these  counties,  all  of  which  I  have  reported  to  Colonel 
[Robert]  Evans;  but  in  order  that  you  may  understand  the 
situation,  I  have  directed  this  letter  to  you. 

On  the  18th  of  March  one  man  was  killed  and  three  others 
wounded  near  this  place  (Valonia).  [see  INIarch  24  above] 
At  that  time  I  was  not  there.  On  my  arrival  I  took  twenty- 
nine  men  and  went  up  to  Drift  river,  twenty -five  miles,  and 
here  found  a  party  of  Indians  on  an  island  in  the  river.  In 
a  skirmish  of  twenty  minutes,  I  defeated  them,  killed  one  and 
saw  others  sink  in  the  river,  and  I  believe  if  any  made  their 
escape  by  swimming,  they  lost  their  guns.  I  lost  no  men. 
[See  Apr  12,  1814  below] 

On  the  sixteenth  inst.  two  men  were  killed  and  one  wounded 
southwest  eight  miles  of  this  place  and  a  number  of  horses 
were  stolen.  I  immediately  took  thirty  men  and  followed  them 
three  days.  We  had  five  large  creeks  to  raft  and  many  to 
wade  and  every  day  rain  fell.  The  third  day  I  directed  my 
spies  to  march  slowly.  The  Indians'  horses  were  showing  e^i- 
dences  of  fatigue,  and  I  thought  it  best  not  to  overtake  them 
until  night;  but  contrary  to  my  orders,  they  came  up  with 
one  Indian  who  had  stopped  to  fix  his  pack  and  fired  at  him. 
The  other  Indians  were  but  a  little  in  advance  and  they  all  left 
their  horses  and  plunder.  The  ground  being  hilly,  we  could 
not  overtake  them.  Had  it  not  been  for  my  orders  being  dis- 
obeyed, I  would  have  been  able  to  have  killed  or  captured  them 
in  their  camp  that  night.  As  they  went  out  they  passed  Salt 
creek  and  there  took  an  old  trail  directly  for  Delaware  town, 
and  it  is  my  opinion  that  while  the  government  was  support- 
ing one  part  of  that  tribe,  the  others  were  murdering  our 
citizens.  It  is  much  to  be  desired  that  these  rascals,  of  what- 
ever tribe  they  may  be  harbouring  about  their  town,  should 
be  routed.  This  could  be  done  with  one  hundred  mounted  men 
in  seven  days. 

If  there  is  not  an  effective  measure  taken  to  guard  this 
place,  all  of  Clark  and  Harrison  Counties  will  break.  It  is 
rumored  here  that  when  the  rangers  come  out,  the  militia  will 
be  dismissed.  If  so,  our  case  is  a  dangerous  one,  as  it  is  hard 
for  mounted  men  to  range  through  the  swamps  and  back- 
waters of  Driftwood  and  Muscackituck  rivers,  as  they  have 
been  for  most  of  the  season  more  than  a  mile  wide,  by  reason 


HARRISON;     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        411 

,,.f  !u\v,  niar.sliy  bottoms  which  overflow,  and  many  times  three 
i4?al  four  miles  wide.  The  Indians  come  in  and  secrete  them- 
?;t  Ives  in  some  liiffh  ground  surrounded  by  water  and  by  the 
hiip  of  bark  canoes,  come  in  and  do  mischief  and  until  I  came 
«njl,  m-ver  could  be  found.  Since  I  came  they  have  made  two 
attrmi)ts  to  tiike  off  the  horses.  The  first  time,  on  the  12th 
in  St.,  I  look  all  their  horses  but  one.  The  last  time  I  took  all 
aiui  still  followed  them  with  footmen.  The  last  time  we  lived 
three  days  on  a  little  venison,  without  bread  or  salt,  and  I 
believe  if  thei'e  are  to  be  rangers,  there  should  be  spies  of 
young  and  hardey  footmen,  who  can  lay  and  scout  through 
the  swamps  and  thickets  as  the  Indians  do;  then  we  will  be 
secure,  not  else.  I  have  been  constantly  out  for  the  last  eight 
days  on  foot,  wading  and  rafting  the  creeks.  I  have  seen 
many  signs  of  Indians,  such  as  camps  where  they  have  lain, 
and  killed  hogs  and  cattle  to  live  on,  and  many  canoes  to  ap- 
proiK  l»  our  settlements,  and  I  am  conscious  if  you  had  not 
ordered  out  the  additional  company  and  made  those  excellent 
r.rrangements  of  the  ninth  of  February,  [see  Feb  9  and  17 
al>ove]  all  of  this  frontier  would  have  been  murdered  ere  now. 
Tluj  citizens  are  living  between  hope  and  despair,  wating  to 
know  their  doom. 

[John  Tipton] 

Recruiting  in  Kentucky 

Georgetown  (Ky.)  April  1.  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  116 

Mounted  Regiment  :  The  most  flattering  accounts  are  re- 
ceived from  various  quarters  that  the  mounted  regiment  (to 
bo  commanded  by  R.  ]\L  Johnson)  is  rapidly  filling  its  ranks. 
This  suits  Kentuckians.  In  the  old  war,  they  were  all  carried 
to  the  enemy  on  horseback.  They  are  prejudiced  in  favor  of 
a  corps  of  this  description.  All  seem  to  be  aroused — men 
above  45,  and  boys  under  18  years  of  age,  are  volunteering, 
anxious  for  an  opportunity  to  avenge  the  blood  of  their 
slaughtered  fj-iends. 

Capt.  [William]  Dudley,^  of  Frankfort,  passed  through  this 
place,  on  Tuesday  night,  with  122  as  respectable,  as  brave  and 
as  fine  volunteers,  as  any  country  ever  produced,  destined  for 

1.  William  Dudley  was  a  native  of  Spotlsylvanla  Co.,  Va.,  but  was  then  living  In 
Fayette  Co.,  Ky.     He  was  killed  at  Fort  Meigs. 


412  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

the  Rapids.  We  will  venture  to  assert,  that  captain  Dudley 
and  his  patriot  band  will  give  a  good  account  of  themselves 
when  attacked  by  the  enemy,  they  will  leave  their  mark. 

Lexington,  March  30.  Yesterday  Col.  Dudley's  regiment 
of  Kentucky  volunteers  was  paraded  in  this  town,  and  are 
expected  to  march  in  a  few  days  on  NewiDort. 

The  men  appear  to  be  cheerful  and  animated  and  inspired 
with  the  purest  feelings  of  patriotism.  With  pride  we  men- 
tion that  several  who  served  on  the  last  campaign  have  again 
volunteei'ed  their  services. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  3rd,  1813 

Ha/r.  Pa.  6^-66 

Sir: 

Your  dispatch  of  the  17th  ultimo  [see  Mar.  17  above]  from 
Chilicothe  has  been  received  and  I  hasten  to  repeat  to  you 
the  views  of  the  President  in  relation  to  the  next  campaigii 
and  the  injunctions  growing  out  of  these,  with  regard  to  the 
employment  of  Militia. 

Our  first  object  is  to  get  a  command  of  the  lakes.  Means 
to  accomplish  this  object  have  been  taken,  and  we  have  the 
fullest  assurance  that  by  the  1st  day  of  June  it  will  be  accom- 
plished. 

This  fact  assured,  there  can  be  no  longer  a  doubt  by  what 
means  or  by  what  Route,  the  Division  of  the  Army  assigned 
to  you,  ought  to  approach  Maiden.  A  passage  by  water  will 
carry  you  directly  to  the  Fortress  you  would  attack  without 
impairing  your  strength  by  fatigue,  or  diminishing  it  by  bat- 
tle. A  passage  by  land  will  on  the  other  hand  call  for  great 
efforts  and  expose  you  to  great  losses,  which  if  they  do  not 
destroy,  will  at  least  cripple  you.  The  former  will  be  easy, 
safe  and  economical,  the  latter  difficult,  dangerous  and  enor- 
mously expensive. 

On  the  other  supposition,  that  we  fail  to  obtain  the  com- 
mand of  the  Lake,  a  new  question  will  arise — whether  the 
campaign  shall  take  an  offensive  or  defensive  character?  Be 
this  question  determined  as  it  may,  the  utmost  extent  which 
will  be  given  to  the  force  employed,  will  be  seven  thousand 
effectives. 

Various  reasons  determine  this  point.     The  enemy  have 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        413 

never  had  in  the  field  for  the  defence  of  Maiden  more  than 
two  thousand  men.  Their  number  has  no  doubt  been  hitherto 
limited  by  their  means  of  subsistence  and  this  cause  is  not 
likely  to  suffer  any  very  material  change  in  their  favor,  dur- 
ing the  ensuing  campaign.  More  than  seven  thousand  men 
therefore  would  be  unnecessary  on  our  part.  Again,  to  main- 
tain a  greater  number  would  be  impracticable,  in  the  present 
state  of  the  Treasury. 

It  now  remains  only  to  signify  to  you  clearly  and  distinctly 
the  kind  of  force  the  Government  mean  hereafter  to  employ 
in  offensive  operations,  if  it  can  be  obtained. 

When  the  Legislature  at  their  last  session  adopted  the  meas- 
ure of  augmenting  the  Army  to  fifty-two  Regiments  of  the 
Line,  it  was  expressly  in  the  view  of  superseding  hereafter 
the  necessity  of  employing  militia,  excepting  in  moments  of 
actual  invasion.  In  obedience  to  this  policy  the  President  as- 
signed to  the  8th  military  District  of  the  United  States,  four 
of  these  new  Regiments,  which  if  filled,  and  super-added  to 
the  two  Regiments  of  the  line  now  in  that  District,  and  the 
24th  in  march  for  it,  will  give  a  total  of  seven  regiments  or 
seven  thousand  men.  This  number  forbids  the  belief,  that  any 
employment  of  Militia  drafts  will  be  necessary,  when  it  shall 
have  been  collected.  Till  however  this  be  done,  or  at  least 
till  time  be  given  for  the  experiment,  so  many  militia  only 
are  to  be  called  out  as  shall  be  necessary  for  the  defense  of 
your  posts  on  the  Miami  and  of  your  depots  of  provision  on 
the  Lake,  and  should  the  recruiting  service  go  on  less  fortu- 
nately in  the  patriotic  states  of  Kentucky  and  Ohio  than  in 
other  parts  of  the  Union,  you  are  in  that  case,  and  in  that 
case  only,  authorized  to  call  out  as  many  militia  drafts,  as  will 
make  good  the  deficiency — and  organizing  these  under  the 
rules  already  prescribed,  await  the  farther  orders  of  the  Presi- 
dent in  your  camp  at  the  Rapids. 

To  these  orders  I  have  to  add  that  you  will  regard  it  as  your 
duty  to  keep  this  Department  regularly  and  frequently  in- 
formed of  the  actual  condition  of  the  Troops  under  your  com- 
mand as  well  in  regard  to  equipment  and  supplies  of  provi- 
sion and  ammunition  as  to  numbers,  discipline  and  health  and 
that  your  weekly  and  monthly  reports  shall  include  also  the 
state  of  the  Ordnance  and  Quarter  Master's  Departments, 
noting  particularly  the  number  of  Horses  and  oxen  employed 


Mfr'^iiiV*?'*^-*-''*'^^*™^'"'''™'-^-^'-'^"''-*!'^^^^^^^ 


414  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

by  both.  You  will  readily  perceive  the  necessity  for  giving 
this  order,  when  I  state  that  no  return  of  any  description  from 
your  Division  of  the  Army  has  ever  been  received  at  the  Adju- 
tant General's  Office.  Your  proportion  of  the  new  staff  has 
been  given  to  you.  Captain  [Nathaniel  F.]  Adams  has  been 
appointed  Assist.  Adjutant  General,  and  :\Ir.  [John  C]  Bart- 
lett  Deputy  Qr.  Master  General  of  your  division.  The  Briga- 
dier Generals  [Duncan]  McArthur  and  [Le\\as]  Cass  are 
employed  in  superintending  the  Recruiting  Service.  A  letter 
from  the  latter  gives  reason  to  believe  that  this  will  go  on 
well  in  the  State  of  Ohio. 
I^Iajor  General  Harrison 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Apl.  4th,  1813 

J.  ^  ^'^0'*^^  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A",  75 

I  received  two  letters  [see  .Alar.  22  above]  yesterday  from 
Governor  Edwards  of  Illinois,  the  information  they  contained 
being  of  the  most  serious  and  alarming  nature.  I  do  mvself 
the  honour  to  enclose  herewith  copies  of  them,  to  apprise  vou 
ot  the  strides  which  are  making  by  the  British  evidentlv  with 
a  view  to  future  conquest. 

You  are  no  doubt  well  aware  of  the  importance  which  the 
i^ost  at  Prairie  Duchim  ^^^ill  give  to  their  arms  as  it  respects 
the  numerous  tribes  of  savages  to  the  west  of  the  Mississippi 
who  heretofore  have  felt  but  little  inducements  to  enter  into 
the  war  on  either  side. 

It  is  a  misfortune  that  the  representation  of  Gov.  Edwards 
made  last  year  have  not  been  duly  appreciated,  It  will  now 
require  ten  times  the  force  that  might  have  established  a  post 
by  our  Government  at  Prairie  Duchin  &  thereby  have  broken 
mat  Cham  of  water  communication  from  the  Lakes  to  the 
western  ocean,  which  I  fear  we  shall  not  be  able  to  wrest  from 
tne  enemy  and  they  know  too  well  the  great  value  of  the  Ter- 
ritory to  the  north  of  it  to  surrender  it  to  us  on  a  General 
reaco  without  a  concession  on  our  part  of  more  value  to  them. 

1  saw  one  of  the  Regiments  of  the  Lake  brigade  which 
marched  from  this  State  to  join  you— except  two  companies, 
great  part  of  them  too  men  under  size  and  in  other  respects 
hardly  Kentuckians.    You  must  have  a  different  kind  of  troops 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        415 

to  meet  the  enemy  on  the  field,  but  while  an  opinion  is  enter- 
tained in  Kentucky  that  the  Government  is  going  on  in  too 
small  a  scale  to  meet  the  enemy,  the  better  kind  of  people  who 
are  able  to  send  a  substitute  will  not  go  themselves  to  fight  a 
battle  which  promises  nothing  but  defeat  and  disgrace,  and 
unless  you  shall  have  a  discretion  to  call  out  a  force  which  you 
!nay  deem  sufficient  and  of  every  description  of  Troops  suffi- 
cient by  their  numbers  to  insure  success,  you  need  hardly  ex- 
pect a  man  from  Kentucky  upon  any  future  draft  who  is  able 
to  send  a  substitute  in  his  room  and  of  all  others  an  army  of 
raw  substitutes  are  least  proper  to  meet  an  enemy  of  well 
disciplined  troops  flanked  by  strong  bodies  of  Indians.  The 
defeat  of  St.  Clair  and  many  others  I  Could  mention  will  jus- 
tify this  opinion,  I  wish  my  voice  could  reach  the  ear  of  our 
good  President  and  induce  him  to  call  General  Wilkinson  to  the 
command  of  our  North  Eastern  Army,  his  talents  and  experi- 
ence would  open  a  seam  both  in  the  field  and  in  the  war  de- 
partment of  a  different  aspect  from  what  has  yet  been  con- 
ceived by  any  one  before  him. 

^'*'  ^'-  ISSAC  SHELBY 

To  General  Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  8th  1813 

Ott>.  Hot.  Pa.  60 

I  have  received  the  two  letters  you  did  me  the  honor  to 
write  to  me  on  the  27th  and  28th  ult.  [see  above]  In  a  for- 
mer letter  you  had  stated  that  a  number  of  Boats  were  build- 
ing under  your  direction.  I  send  you  the  inclosed  extract 
from  a  letter  written  by  Major  [Thomas  Sidney]  Jessup  of 
the  19th  Regt.  now  at  Cleveland.  If  the  number  he  has  con- 
tracted for  be  more  than  will  be  wanted,  (calculating  those 
you  are  building  at  other  points)  you  will  be  pleased  to  give 
him  that  information,  in  time  to  enable  him  to  lessen  the  num- 
ber. 

Some  portion  of  your  last  requisition  upon  the  Ohio  militia, 
ought  to  be  placed  at  those  points  on  the  Southern  shore  of  the 
Lake,  which  will  be  most  likely  to  invite  the  attacks  of  the 
Enemy. 

Major  General  Wm.  H.  Harrison. 


416  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  Gov.  Shelby 

Head  Quarters  Fort  Amanda  on  tlie  Auglaise  River 

9th  April  4  o'clock  A.  ^I.  [1S13] 
(Duplicate) 

Har.  Pa.  993-995 

Dear  Sir: 

Altho  I  have  reason  to  believe  that  the  povv^er  formerly  given 
to  me  to  call  upon  the  Executive  of  the  adjacent  states  and 
Territories  for  Detachments  of  Militia  is  considered  by  the 
Secretary  of  War  as  being  annuled  yet  such  is  my  view  of 
the  critical  situation  of  our  affairs  in  the  country  that  I  am 
induced  to  request  your  Excellency  to  take  such  measures  as 
you  may  judge  most  effectual  and  speedy  to  send  me  a  rein- 
forcement of  at  least  fifteen  hundred  men.  The  season  is 
scarcely  sufficiently  advanced  to  afford  wild  food  for  horses 
but  as  we  have  a  considerable  quantity-  of  forage  at  some  of 
the  advanced  posts  I  must  request  you  to  dispatch  immedi- 
ately the  Regt.  of  Mounted  Riflemen  commanded  by  the 
Honble.  R.  M.  Johnson  or  such  part  of  it  as  may  be  raised 
without  waiting  for  the  infantry.  Should  the  Government 
not  think  proper  to  authorize  the  employment  of  the  latter  vou 
^vill  receive  notice  of  it  before  they  can  have  arrived  at  \he 
General  Rendezvous  as  I  have  already  written  on  the  subject 
and  I  am  persuaded  that  neither  your  Excellency  nor  the  ofn- 
cers  and  men  who  may  be  called  out  will  regret  the  trouble  vou 
will  have  on  this  occasion  should  it  even  prove  ultimatelv  to 
produce  no  advantage. 

From  the  information  received  yesterday  it  is  very  evident 
that  the  enemy  intended  to  attack  the  post  at  the  Miami  Rap- 
ids They  have  been  apprised  of  the  reduced  state  of  the 
troops  there  and  calculate  upon  an  easy  conquest.  I  have 
been  obliged  to  dispatch  for  its  protection  the  Squadron  of 
Dragoons  and  have  now  with  me  about  300  men  which  is  all 
that  I  could  possibly  take  from  the  protection  of  the  posts  on 
this  line.  Indeed  one  of  them  is  left  to  the  protection  of  the 
Friendly  Indians  with  only  a  sergeant  and  3  men  of  ours.  I 
shall  embark  in  one  hour  in  a  boat  and  perogues  and  calculate 
on  reaching  the  Rapids  tomorrow  night.  I  am  informed  by 
Major  [Amos]  Stoddard  who  commands  at  Camp  IMeigs  that 
the  Indians  are  in  force  on  the  Rivers  between  Fort  Win- 
chester and  the  former. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        417 

Without  a  very  considerable  addition  to  my  present  force  it 
will  be  impossible  to  defend  the  extensive  line  of  weak  posts 
on  the  frontier  and  maintain  that  at  the  Rapids.  The  enemy 
have  a  single  point  only  to  defend,  their  forces  are  concen- 
trated, they  command  the  lake  &  can  take  their  troops  to  any 
point  they  think  proper  to  attack  with  a  great  facility.  Our 
movements  on  the  contrary  are  necessarily  laborious  and 
tardy  &  not  knowing  on  which  of  our  numerous  and  vulner- 
able points  the  storm  is  to  fall  it  is  necessary  upon  every 
military  principle  that  our  force  should  be  treble  theirs;  at 
present  it  is  inferior, 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  Sir  Yr.  Obt. 
&  Hbl.  Servt. 

(Signed)  W.  H.  Harrison 
His  Excellency  Isaac  Shelby,  Esqr.  Governor  of  Kentucky 
True  Copy  L.  Hukills,  A.  D.  Camp 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  49.) 

Head  Quarters  N.  W.  Army  Camp  Meigs  (Miami  Rapids) 

[About  April  15,  1813] 

Har.  Pa.  9 85-9 S 8 

Sir: 

I  arrived  here  on  the  morning  of  the  12th  Inst.  [April] 
having  decended  the  Auglaize  and  Miami  Rivers  with  all  the 
Troops  that  I  darst  take  from  the  Forts  in  that  direction. 
Major  [Amos]  Stoddard  who  commanded  here  for  some  days 
previously  to  my  arrival  informed  me  that  he  had  communi- 
cated to  the  Adt.  General  some  recent  information  he  had  re- 
ceived respecting  the  designs  of  the  enemy  upon  this  post.  I 
have  no  reason  to  doubt  the  correctness  of  the  accounts  he  had 
received,  indeed  they  are  corroborated  by  a  number  of  cir- 
cumstances. 

I  found  on  my  arrival  here  that  Genl.  Leftwitch  had  done 
little  or  nothing  towards  completing  the  defences  of  the  post. 
Major  Stoddard  had  however  employed  himself  very  actively 
after  the  command  had  devolved  upon  him  and  since  my  ar- 
rival the  whole  of  the  troops  have  been  engaged  in  finishing 
the  old  works  and  erecting  new  ones.  Amongst  the  latter  are 
an  earthern   Parapet    (nearly  completed)    round  the  whole 


418  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Camp  and  several  new  Sod  Batteries  in  addition  to  those 
wliich  were  laid  do-\vn  in  the  plan  which  I  had  the  honor  to 
forward.  A  Grand  Traverse  across  the  whole  Camp  and  a 
few  additional  counter  Guards  vrill  render  all  the  efforts  of 
the  enemy  unavailing.  I  pledge  myself  to  defend  it  to  the  last 
extremity.  Today  or  tomorrow  I  shall  be  reinforced  by  a  part 
of  the  Kentucky  Troops.  The  whole  must  be  considerably  ad- 
vanced and  will  shortly  join  me.  As  the  enemy  are  Imown  to 
have  several  parties  of  Indians  out  for  the  purpose  of  inter- 
cepting the  mail  and  may  very  probably  suceed  altho  it  is 
guarded  by  a  detachment  of  dragoons  I  shall  wait  for  a  safer 
opportunity  which  will  occur  in  a  few  days  to  communicate 
some  further  information.  When  the  Law  for  raising  12 
months  volunteers  was  in  force  I  authorized  I\IcFarland  to 
raise  a  company  of  Artillery  having  been  furnished  with  blank- 
commissions  for  that  purpose.  He  had  recruited  thirty  men 
before  the  law  was  repealed  and  having  expended  a  good  deal 
of  money  and  manifested  much  zeal  for  the  service  I  prom- 
ised him  a  Captaincy  in  one  of  the  new  Regiments.  I  shall  be 
gratified  to  have  this  promise  fulfilled.  I  believe  him  to  be 
worthy  of  the  appointment. 

I  have  received  no  letter  from  you  later  than  the  17th  ultimo. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  gi'eat  respect  Sir  Yr.  Ob.  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Ilonble  John  Armstrong,  Esq.  Secy,  of  War. 


(No.  50) 


Rarrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


Head  Quarters  Camp  Meigs  17th  April  1813 

Har.  Pa.  9 S 9-9 9 2 

Sir: 

I  must  beg  you  to  believe  that  I  would  not  disobey  any  order 
of  yours  unless  I  was  sure  that  my  doing  so  would  meet  your 
approbation  when  you  should  be  informed  of  all  the  circum- 
stances that  produced  such  disobedience.  Nothing  can  be  more 
proper  than  the  regulations  contained  in  your  letter  of  the— 
[13?]  ulto.  on  the  subject  of  calling  out  the  Militia  and  Yet 
such  was  my  view  of  the  critical  situation  of  our  affairs  in  this 
quarter  that  I  have  been  obliged  to  accept  of  companies  from 
the  State  of  Ohio  that  do  not  contain  more  than  forty  men. 
Indeed  there  is  scarcely  one  with  more  than  half  the  comple- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        419 

ment.  As  soon  however  as  I  can  get  them  together  and  con- 
sult Govr.  Meigs  they  shall  be  consolidated.  I  have  the  honor 
to  enclose  a  copy  of  my  letter  to  Gov.  Shelby  of  the  9th  Inst, 
[see  above]  Having  written  to  you  before  on  the  subject  of 
calling  out  those  Troops  There  will  be  time  enough  to  in- 
struct the  Governor  should  it  be  determined  that  they  are  not 
to  be  employed  before  they  can  be  put  in  motion. 

The  enemy  have  not  yet  made  their  appearance  but  from 
the  information  received  through  the  ^^'yandotts  of  Sandusky 
they  are  collecting  a  large  force  for  the  attack  of  this  or  some 
other  of  our  posts. 

John  S.  Wills  Esq.  Judge  Advocate  to  the  Army  will  set  out 
tomorrow  for  Franklinton.  I  have  mentioned  some  particu- 
lars to  him  which  I  did  not  ^^ish  to  conmiit  to  paper  and  he 
will  have  the  honor  to  communicate  them  by  letter  from  that 
place  or  Upper  Sandusky. 

When  I  arrived  here  I  was  informed  by  IMajor  [Amos] 
Stoddard  that  he  had  written  to  the  Ajdt.  Genl.  and  given 
him  all  the  intelligence  which  he  had  received  of  the  Move- 
ments and  intentions  of  the  enemy.  I  have  since  learnt  how- 
ever that  he  forgot  to  mention  that  the  British  had  lately 
launched  at  ]\Ialden  a  vessel  carrjang  Eighteen  gims  which 
was  completely  equipped  and  ready  for  a  voyage  and  that  an- 
other of  the  same  size  was  nearly  ready  to  be  launched. 

The  difficulty  of  procuring  proper  persons  for  scouts  (spies 
they  are  called  in  the  western  country)  and  the  verj^ 
exorbitant  price  which  they  demand  has  made  it  necessary 
to  employ  some  of  the  friendly  Indians  for  that  purpose.  I 
have  now  with  me  about  Thirty  and  have  promised  them  fifty 
cents  per  day.  Altho  there  is  no  Law  authorizing  this  I  in- 
tended to  pay  them  out  of  the  fund  which  Government  has 
always  put  at  my  disposal  for  extra  presents  and  which  yearly 
amounts  to  a  much  larger  sum  than  will  be  given  them.  The 
Agent  Mr.  [John]  Johnson  will  have  directions  to  draw  for 
their  compensation  in  this  way.  If  there  were  no  other  rea- 
sons for  the  emplojanent  of  the  friendly  Indians  the  confidence 
in  their  fidelity  which  it  gives  to  our  ovra  people  upon  the 
frontiers  makes  it  absolutely  necessary.  I  have  been  under 
very  great  apprehensions  that  some  scoundrels  in  the  neigh- 
borhood of  Piqua  would  fall  upon  the  Delawares. 

A  few  of  our  people  and  Twenty  Indians  are  now  out  in  the 


1.S06628 

420  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

direction  of  the  River  Raisin  for  the  purpose  of  taking  a 
prisoner  to  gain  information. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Yr.  Ob.  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honble  John  Armstrong,  Esq.  Secy,  of  War. 


Shelby  to  Harrison 

April  18th,  1813 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A",  96 

Dr  Sir  : 

On  the  15th  inst.,  while  at  mj^  farm  in  Lincoln,  I  had  the 
honour  of  receiving  your  letter  of  the  9th  inst.,  [see  above] 
making  a  requisition  on  me  for  a  reinforcement  of  at  least 
fifteen  hundred  men  and  desiring  in  particular  the  Regiments 
of  mounted  men  commanded  by  R.  I\I.  Johnson,  Esq. 

I  immediately  started  for  this  place  which  I  reached  in  the 
course  of  the  next  day  and  that  afternoon  issued  orders  for 
the  rendezvous  at  George  Town  on  the  2nd  day  of  IMay  of  the 
two  remaining  regiments  of  the  detached  militia  of  this  State, 
to  march  from  thence  without  delay  to  your  Head  Quarters. 

These  Regiments  having  been  raised  under  a  Law  which 
vests  me  with  the  discretionary  power  of  ordering  them  in 
the  service  whenever  the  exigiencies  of  the  War  might  in  my 
opinion  require,  I  felt  no  difficulty  in  ordering  them  out  under 
the  critical  posture  of  our  affairs  in  your  quarters  as  repre- 
sented in  your  letter — Having  a  confidence  however  that  the 
measure  would  be  sanctioned  by  the  president  of  the  United 
States  or  if  not  that  I  should  receive  notice  of  his  disappro- 
bation in  time  to  stop  their  march  before  they  left  the  limits 
of  the  State — 

I  have  received  no  communications  from  the  president  of 
the  U.  S.  nor  from  the  Secy,  at  War,  relative  to  the  authority, 
said  to  be  given  to  Mr.  Johnson  to  raise  a  Regiment  of 
mounted  Infantry,  newspaper  publication  is  all  I  have  seen 
on  that  Subject — 

I  do  not  know  what  law  that  Regt.  is  said  to  be  raised  under, 
nor  its  object.  And  I  have  no  reason  to  believe  that  it  is  or- 
ganized. Indeed  the  State  Constitution  forbids  the  appoint- 
ment of  a  member  of  Cong-rcss  to  any  office  of  Trust  or  Profit 
under  its  authority — The  Federal  Constitution  is  equally  cau- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        421 

tioiis  as  to  their  holding  any  office- under  the  General  Govern- 
ment. 

Under  existing  circumstances  I  could  therefore  take  no  no- 
tice of  the  mounted  Riflemen. 

I  flatter  mj'self  that  with,  the  forces  under  your  command 
you  will  be  able  to  maintain  your  ground  against  any  force 
that  the  enemy  can  bring  against  you,  until  you  are  reinforced 
so  as  to  enable  you  to  commence  Offensive  measures. 

I  am  Dr  Sir  &c., 

Isaac  Shelby. 
To  General  Harrison 

P.  S.  You  have  said  nothing  to  me  in  your  letter  about  an 
assurance  of  pay  to  the  men  ordered  to  your  assistance.  It 
will  certainly  be  expected,  and  it  is  much  to  be  wished  that 
they  may  receive  it.  Should  this  reach  you  in  time  I  hope  you 
will  give  orders  that  at  least  one  month's  pay  be  advanced  to 
them  before  they  leave  Cincinnati.  I.  S. 

Secretary  op  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  18th  1813 

Hoa:  Pa.  67 

Sir: 

Enclosed  is  an  order  recalling  Brig.  General  [Duncan]  Mc- 
Arthur  to  the  discharge  of  the  duties  to  which  he  had  been 
specially  assigned  by  this  Department. 

Letters  from  Fort  Meigs  of  the  9th  Instant  have  been  re- 
ceived from  Major  [Amos]  Stoddard.  The  enemy's  parties 
besetting  the  approaches  to  the  fort  have  been  small  and  might 
have  been  chastised  had  the  Detachments  sent  in  pursuit  of 
them  been  larger.  When  your  whole  force  is  collected,  it  would 
be  desirable  that  Colonel  Proctor  should  make  an  attempt  to 
dislodge  or  to  invest  you.  He  can  neither  bring  into  the  field 
nor  keep  in  it  more  than  two  thousand  effectives.  The  regular 
force  sent  to  him  from  the  Niagara  and  arriving  after  his 
defeat  of  General  Winchester,  did  not  exceed  the  number  he 
lost  in  that  affair.  His  field  train  consists  of  six  or  eight  six 
pounders. 

Major  General  Harrison 


422  INDIANA  IIISTOPJCAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

(No.  51) 

Head  Quarters  Camp  Meigs  21st  April  1813 

Har.  Pa.  99S-1007 

Sir: 

I  had  the  honor  last  evening  to  receive  your  favor  of  tlie 
4th  [3d]  Inst.  The  party  which  was  sent  to  the  River  Raisin 
returned  with  three  Frenchmen  from  that  settlement.  The 
information  given  by  the  latter  is  that  the  enemy  are  still  urg- 
ing on  their  preparations  for  the  attack  of  this  place.  The 
transports  for  the  troops  and  Artillery  were  preparing.  The 
Prophet  and  his  Brother  had  arrived  at  the  River  Raisin  ^^ith 
a  reinforcement  of  Indian  Warriors  and  a  still  larger  was  ex- 
pected on  the  day  after  from  the  south  side  of  Lake  IMichigan. 
Three  Artillery  officers  had  been  sent  to  fix  on  the  sites  for 
their  Batteries  on  the  Bank  of  the  River  opposite  to  this  place. 
The  Prisoners  captured  on  the  7th  Inst,  had  been  taken  in  and 
had  informed  the  enemy  of  the  strength  of  this  post.  But  a 
salute  which  had  been  fired  upon  my  arrival  here  was  heard — 
the  intention  kno^vn  and  a  belief  entertained  that  I  had 
brought  a  large  reinforcement.  The  Indians  began  to  waver. 
Their  employers  were  stimulating  them  by  every  means  in 
their  power.  To  the  Prophet  and  his  followers  assurances 
were  given  that  the  Michigan  Territory  should  be  theirs.  The 
Indians  objected  to  the  plan  of  attack  proposed  by  the  British 
which  was  to  detach  the  Militia  and  the  Indians  to  intercept 
our  retreat  whilst  the  Regular  Troops  were  employed  in  an- 
noying us  from  the  opposite  side  of  the  River,  The  attack  on 
this  post  would  now  be  desirable  and  I  only  fear  that  they 
may  abandon  the  Idea  for  one  more  easily  executed.  I\Iy  fears 
for  the  safety  of  Fort  Wajme  are  removed  for  the  present,  as 
all  the  accounts  agree  as  to  the  point  of  the  exertions  making 
by  the  enemy  to  draw  to  Maiden  every  Indian  from  the  coun- 
try between  the  Wabash  and  Lake  Michigan. 

The  plan  for  future  operations  as  laid  down  in  your  letter 
of  the  4th  [3d]  is  no  doubt  the  best  that  could  have  been 
devised  in  the  event  of  the  promised  naval  success  and  a 
prosperous  issue  to  the  Recruiting  business.  My  measures 
will  therefore  be  entirely  directed  to  the  prosecution  of  the 
campaign  in  that  way. 

There  is  nothing  to  be  feared  as  to  the  ulterior  operations 
of  the  campaign.    But  all  my  apprehentions  are  awake  for  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        423 

present  moment.  To  you  Sir,  it  is  unnecessary  to  say  that  it 
requires  a  larger  force  to  defend  a  line  of  frontier  as  exten- 
sive as  ours  is  than  to  carry  on  offensive  operations  against 
an  enemy  whose  force  is  concentrated  and  who  possesses  the 
power  of  attacking  any  point  they  please.  I  had  much  rather 
when  joined  by  Genl.  [Green]  Clay  wiDi  the  Kentucky  troops 
advance  upon  Detroit  than  attempt  to  defend  our  long  lines 
of  weak  posts.  The  Point  mentioned  in  the  address  to  you 
from  certain  citizens  of  this  state  is  no  doubt  very  much  ex- 
posed but  it  is  not  more  so  than  others  that  are  more  im- 
portant. 

I  shall  however  attend  to  it  as  soon  as  possible  The  position 
which  I  occupy  here  certainly  possesses  more  advantages  than 
any  other  that  could  have  been  taken,  and  yet  such  is  the 
adverse  nature  of  this  country,  for  Military  operations,  that 
had  I  a  disposable  force  of  some  thousands,  the  enemy  could 
turn  my  right  by  landing  at  Sandusky  and  operate  against 
the  Forts  there  with  impunity.  It  is  now  raining  as  it  has 
been  for  two  days  and  the  Swamps  which  run  parallel  to  this 
River  throughout  its  whole  extent  must  in  a  few  hours  be 
absolutely  impassable  to  Infantry.  I  shall  cause  the  move- 
ments of  the  enemy  to  be  narrowly  watched.  But  in  the  event 
of  their  landing  at  Lower  Sandusky  that  post  cannot  be  saved. 
I  will  direct  it  in  such  an  event  to  be  evacuated.  The  stores 
there  are  not  of  much  consequence  excepting  about  500  stand 
of  arms  which  I  will  cause  to  be  removed  as  soon  as  the  roads 
are  practicable;  at  present  it  is  impossible. 

Before  I  left  Cincinnati  I  was  informed  by  a  Letter  from 
Genl.  Leftwitch  that  the  Pensylvania  and  Virginia  I\Iilitia 
would  remain  here,  until  other  troops  should  arrive,  upon  no 
condition  but  that  of  receiving  their  arrears  of  pay  before 
their  departure.  I  accordingly  dispatched  my  Aid  de  Camp 
Lieut.  [Levi]  Hukill  with  directions  to  assure  them  that  their 
wishes  should  be  complied  with,  and  I  directed  I\Ir.  [Jesse] 
Hunt  Paymaster  to  send  on  Twenty  thousand  dollars  to  this 
place  to  be  delivered  to  Colo.  [Samuel]  Huntingdon  whom  I 
was  in  hopes  would  be  found  here  on  the  arrival  of  Mr.  Hukill 
the  greater  part  of  the  Militia  were  gone  about  tv/o  hundred 
Pennsylvanians  however  volunteered  their  services  to  remain 
for  fifteen  days  and  upon  my  arrival  liere  they  demanded  a 
fulfillment  of  the  promise.     Col.  Huntingdon  was  not  here, 


424  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

and  from  the  circumstance  of  a  part  of  the  detachment  being- 
made  up  of  small  fragments  of  Companies,  there  was  great 
dilhculty  in  adjusting  their  accounts.  The  money  was  how- 
ever placed  in  the  hands  of  Lt.  [David]  Gwynne  Pay  Master 
to  the  19th  llegt.  U.  S.  Infy.  by  whose  exertions  and  knowl- 
edge of  accounts  the  payment  has  been  made  in  such  a  manner 
as  to  insure  justice  to  the  public  and  individuals  altho  it  will 
no  doubt  cause  a  little  more  trouble  al  the  Genl.  Pay  office. 
Lt.  Gwynne  will  send  to  the  pay  Master  Genl.  one  of  the  tripli- 
cate setts  of  Receipt  Rolls  which  were  taken,  with  an  explana- 
tion of  the  whole  proceedure.  You  will  I  am  persuaded  Sir 
not  regret  any  additional  trouble  which  this  affair  may  cause 
in  youi*  Department  when  you  reflect  upon  the  necessity  of 
most  scrupulously  fulfilling  every  engagement  made  betv/een 
the  agents  of  the  Government  and  Militia  placed  in  the  situa- 
tion that  these  were  to  whom  the  promise  of  payment  was 
made. 

I  am  convinced  the  Adjutant  Genl.  is  mistaken  in  saying 
that  no  returns  have  been  forwarded  from  this  army.  From 
October  until  January  every  exertion  was  made  to  get  the 
IMilitia  Corps  of  which  it  was  composed  to  make  regular  and 
formal  returns.    They  were  generally  received  but  so  incorrect  | 

that  nothing  could  be  made  from  them. 

In  the  last  mentioned  month  however  a  General  Return 
was  completed  and  forwarded  by  Capt.   [Nathaniel]   Adams  5 

and  since  that  another.    Capt.  Adams  was  left  by  me  at  Cin-  * 

cinnati  at  his  request  to  make  up  his  accounts  as  pay  master  J 

to  the  'Ith  Rogt.     He  is  now  ordered  on  and  will  resume  his  ] 

functions  upon  his  arrival.  The  orders  contained  in  your  let- 
ter of  the  dth  shall  be  observed  in  future  as  far  as  is  prac- 
ticable. But  You  Sir  who  have  been  accustomed  to  see  Militia 
officers  who  could  at  least  read  and  write  can  have  no  Idea 
of  the  ignorance  of  many  of  those  even  of  considerable  Rank 
in  the  western  country,  [see  Nov.  18,  1812  as  a  sample]  A 
field  oflk-er  of  the  Ohio  Troops  to  whom  I  gave  a  day  or  tvv^o 
aro  a  form  of  his  report  as  offiicer  of  the  day  acknowledged  to 
me  (liat  he  was  unable  to  fill  it  up.  From  the  Quarter  Master 
l)t.'j)artment  inore  regularity  and  more  economy  may  be  ex- 
pected. The  faults  in  that  Department  have  arisen  from  two 
sources  viz.  the  creation  of  two  independent  heads  and  the 
necessity  of  employing  a  vast  number  of  suboi-dinate  agents 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        425 

wliose  characters  could  not  be  ascertained.  From  tlie  latter 
cause  notwithstanding-  the  abilities  of  Colo.  [James]  MorW- 
son,  and  the  high  integrity  of  both  him  and  Captain  [John 
H.]  Piatt  I  do  not  believe  that  there  has  been  more  fraud  and 
peculation  practiced  upon  the  public  in  this  quarter  since  last 
fall  than  in  any  other  army,  that  was  ever  found.  With  some 
few  exceptions,  it  has  I  believe  been  principally  confined  to 
Pack  Horse  IMasters  and  Waggon  INIasters. 

I  had  one  of  the  latter  confined  at  Chilicothe  for  selling 
public  oxen  and  stealing  others.  The  officers  who  were  to 
have  composed  the  court  to  try  him  were  obliged  to  come  off 
to  the  army  and  the  fellow  has  since  been  released  by  the  civil 
authority.  I  gave  you  the  name  of  a  higher  officer  in  a  private 
letter  who  is  looked  upon  with  moi-e  than  suspicion;  it  is  be- 
lieved that  he  has  at  least  $10,000  of  the  public  monej''  in  his 
possession.  Could  I  have  this  to  spend  a  short  time  in  the 
interior  where  these  enormities  have  been  committed  I  would 
endeavor  to  bring  some  of  these  scoundrels  to  punishment. 
From  the  number  of  posts  in  which  valuable  public  property 
is  deposited  there  requires  a  very  considerable  number  of 
subordinate  Q  Masters.  All  these  posts  (one  only  excepted) 
have  militia  garrisons  whose  commanders  seldom  have  the 
firmness  and  inclination  to  control  their  men.  It  is  necessary 
that  there  should  be  in  each  of  them  a  Quarter  Master  or 
agent.  Young  men  of  character  might  be  got  for  from  Thirty 
to  Forty  Dolls,  per  month.  The  Quarter  Masters  under  the 
old  law  have  been  necessarily  continued  untill  they  can  be 
replaced  by  the  new  appoinments.  I  have  heard  not  a  word 
from  the  24th  Regiment.  Pursuing  the  plan  laid  down  in  your 
letter  of  the  4th  [3d]  I  can  see  no  advantage  in  the  point  of 
embarkation  mentioned  in  a  former  letter.  The  ]\Iiami  Bay  or 
Sandusky  would  be  infinitely  preferable.  The  other  place 
possesses  no  advantage  which  these  do  not  afford  they  are 
nearer  our  deposits  and  the  marching  of  the  Troops  from  this 
direction  to  the  other  place  would  point  out  the  intention  to 
the  enemy.  I  will  thank  you  to  inform  me  whether  any  altera- 
tion will  be  made,  in  this  res])ect  as  soon  as  convenient,  as  it 
will  govern  me  in  the  orders  to  be  given  for  the  March  of  the 
24th  Regt.  Nothing,  I  presume,  can  be  expected  from  me  as 
to  the  provision  of  transports.  In  the  proposed  direction, 
open  boats  will  not  answer. 

30— 22G64 


426  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

No  person  is  mentioiiGcl  in  your  letter  of  the  4th  [3d]  for 
the  Inspectors  Department.  I  had  always  intended  to  recom- 
mend for  it  Lieut.  [Levi]  Hukill  my  Aid  de  Camp  who  is 
better  qualified  for  it  than  any  person  I  know  of  and  I  sin- 
cerely believe  better  than  any  other  Plattoon  ofliccr  in  the 
army.  I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  herewith  an  extract  of  a 
letter  [see  I\Iar.  27  above]  from  Govr.  Shelby  on  the  subject 
of  the  employment  of  Indian  auxiliaries.  His  sentiments  on 
the  subject  are  precisely  mine. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  ^^ith  great  Respect  Yr.  Ob.  Svt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honble  John  Armstrong,  Esq.  Secy,  of  War. 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  52) 


Head  Quarters  Camp  Meigs  25th  April  1813 

Har.  Pa.  1-S 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 
of  the  8th  Inst,  [see  above]  The  directions  given  by  me  to  the 
Q.  Mr.  on  the  St.  IMarys  last  winter  were  to  prepare  a  number 
of  boats  of  that  kind  which  were  calculated,  as  well  for  coast- 
ing the  lake  as  for  descending  the  rivers.  From  the  difliculty 
of  procuring  workmen  five  only  of  that  description  were  built, 
perouges  and  flats  being  substituted  for  them.  Your  sugges- 
tion with  regard  to  the  disposition  of  the  Ohio  Militia  shall  be 
attended  to.  If  the  enemy  do  not  commence  offensive  opera- 
tions soon  I  shall  be  able  to  dismiss  a  considerable  proportion 
of  them  and  you  may  rely  upon  my  doing  it  at  the  moment  at 
which  I  think  their  services  can  be  spared. 

In  your  favor  of  the  4th  [3d]  Inst,  you  observe  that  my 
proportion  of  the  staff  has  been  assigned  to  me  but  the  names 
of  none  of  them  are  given  but  those  of  majors  [Nathaniel] 
Adams  and  [John  C]  Bartlett  I  must  beg  leave  to  observe 
that  in  my  opinion  this  army  will  require  a  more  numerous 
ptaff  than  any  other  because  it  will  consist  almost  exclusively 
of  raw  troops  and  inexperienced  officers.  For  this  reason  I 
have  ventured  to  detain  Major  [Levi]  Hukill  until  your 
further  determination  shall  be  kno^^^l,  my  having  done  so  will 
not  offend  General  [Wade]  Hampton.  He  is  personally  the 
friend  of  the  Major  who  was  some  time  in  his  family  and  has 


PIARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        427 

written  to  him  that  it  is  not  his  wish  that  he  should  abandon 
any  situation  in  this  army  for  the  one  which  would  be  offered 
hiin  in  his  staff  should  he  prefer  the  foi'mer. 

The  following  circumstance  will  then  shew  the  importance 
of  IMajor  Hukills  services  to  me  at  present.  The  labour  on 
the  defences  of  the  Camp  being  pretty  well  gotten  over  a  Gen- 
eral order  was  issued  for  placing  the  whole  of  the  Troops  off 
duty  on  Drill  for  several  hours  each  day.  But  amongst  all  the 
officers  under  my  command  of  every  grade  I  am  persuaded 
there  is  not  an  individual,  Majors  Adams  and  Hukill  excepted 
(&  perhaps  Lt.  Col.  [Edmund  Pendleton]  Gains  of  the  24th 
whom  I  do  not  knov/)  who  are  capable  of  properly  directing 
a  drill  or  manoeuvring  a  Battalion.  I  should  prefer  Major 
Hukill  to  any  other  person  as  the  Inspector  of  this  army. 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  herewith  a  rough  sketch  repre- 
senting the  situation  of  the  posts  in  this  quarter  and  a  more 
correct  view  of  the  Islands  in  Lake  Erie  than  any  printed 
map  furnishes.  In  the  group  called  Bass  Islands  there  is  one 
of  the  finest  harbours  in  the  world.  It  is  the  Bay  formed  by 
an  indenture  in  Edwards  Islands  and  nearly  shut  up  by  an- 
other Island  this  harbour  as  the  Frenchman  lately  brought 
from  the  River  Raisin  informs  me  the  British  are  about  Forti- 
fying. It  is  said  to  be  eminently  calculated  for  defence.  The 
shore  which  commands  the  Harbour  being  high  and  a  rock. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  Yr.  Ob.  Svt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

P.  S.  When  I  was  appointed  to  the  command  of  the  N,  W. 
Army  the  secretary  of  war  informed  me  that  the  President 
would  confirm  any  staff  appointments  that  I  might  make 
which  were  allowed  by  law  amongst  others  I  appointed  John 
S.  Wills  Esq.  Divis  J.  Advocate  he  has  performed  the  duties 
faithfully  but  his  appointment  has  not  yet  been  confirmed.  I 
shall  be  gratified  by  having  it  forwarded.  The  officers  of  the 
17th  and  19th  Reg.  U.  S.  Infy.  are  anxious  to  know  whether 
their  Regimental  and  lineal  Rank  has  been  determined. 

W.  H.  H. 

Honb.  John  Armstrong,  Esqr.  Secy,  of  War. 


428  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  27th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  08 

Sir: 

On  looking  back  on  the  correspondence  between  this  De- 
partment and  yourself,  it  is  perceived  that  under  the  unex- 
pected and  alarming  circumstances  of  General  Hull's  surren- 
der, a  great  effort  was  deemed  necessary  on  the  part  of  the 
Government  to  accomplish,  if  possible,  the  objects  assigned  to 
that  officer,  and  at  least  to  regain  what  of  honor  and  of  ter- 
ritory had  been  lost.  In  this  view  it  was  thought  proper  to 
give  to  you  a  carte  blanche  on  the  resources  of  the  country, 
both  as  to  men  and  money.  The  late  and  present  admonitions 
of  the  Treasury  make  it  inexpedient  to  continue  to  this  au- 
thority its  original  latitude.  The  whole  military  expenditure 
of  the  United  States  cannot  exceed  one  million  four  hundred 
thousand  Dollars  per  month.  As  therefore  in  a  former  letter 
your  authority  to  draw  out  militia  was  restricted  to  the  de- 
fence of  Fort  Meigs  its  dependant  posts  and  your  depots  of 
pi'ovision  on  Lake  Erie,  so  in  this  it  becomes  necessary  to  put 
tliat  of  drawing,  oi*  of  authorizing  others  to  draw  bills  upon 
this  De])artment  under  the  following  rules,  viz.  1.  Bills  shall 
not  be  drawn  at  a  sight. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  28th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  6S 

Sir: 

I  did  propose  doing  myself  the  honor  of  writing  to  you  at 
some  length  but  as  the  post  hour  presses,  I  am  constrained  to 
refer  you  to  the  copy  of  a  letter  written  to  B.  Ge]il.  [Lewis] 
Cass,  as  containing  some  portion  of  the  views  intended  for 
you.  i 

I  beg  you  to  accept  the  assurance  of  my  great  respect. 

Major  Genl.  Harrison. 

Harrison  to  Meigs 
Head  Quarters  Calip  Meigs  2Sth  Apl.  1 81:5 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  U"  i'.> 

Dr  Sir  : 

The  enemy  are  determined  to  put  their  threats  in  execution 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        429 

llieir  columns  are  now  in  sight  and  their  Gun  Boats  with 
their  artillery  &c  about  two  miles  from  us  and  the  woods  on 
both  sides  of  the  river  are  full  of  Indians.  I  send  this  by  a 
confidential  person,  Mr.  [William]  Oliver,  who  will  take  it  on 
as  far  as  he  thinks  proper. 

Be  pleased  to  write  immediately  to  the  Governor  of  Ken- 
tucky— my  men  are  in  fine  spirits,  do  not  my  dear  sir  doubt 
the  results — the  enemy  little  dream  of  the  bitter  pill  I  have 
prepared  for  them.  In  a  little  time  I  hope  to  be  able  to  in- 
form you  of  their  complete  discomfiture.  The  additional  men 
v/hom  you  have  ordered  out  were  very  acceptable. 

Yours  truly 

William  Henry  Harrison 
His  Excellency  Govr.  Meigs 


Myers  to  Proctor 

April  28,  1813 
Dawson,  Harrison,  381 

We  look  with  confident  hope  for  the  report  of  your  success 
— and  brigadier-general  Vincent,  (who  is  here,  and  by  whose 
directions  I  am  writing  to  you,)  has  desired  me  to  impress 
upon  you,  what  essential  aid  could  be  rendered  to  us  by  the 
timely  arrival  here  of  five  hundred  Indians;  should  you  have 
secui-ed  Harrison's  army,  it  is  the  brigadeir-general's  desire, 
and  in  which  I  most  earnestly  join,  that  you  forward  to  us 
in  the  king's  vessels  to  Point  Abino,  that  number  with  as  great 
exi)edition  as  possible.  In  the  event  of  your  having  captured 
Harrison's  army,  you  will  see  the  impossibility  under  existing 
circumstances  of  our  taking  charge  of  them  here,  and  there- 
fore brigadier-general  Vincent  requests  you  will  make  the 
best  arrangements  in  your  power  to  dispose  of  them,  either 
by  securing  them  at  one  or  the  other  of  your  o^vn  posts,  or 
passing  them  on  parole  into  the  United  States  by  way  of  Cleve- 
land or  other  routes,  as  you  may  find  expedient;  the  latter  line 
of  conduct  is  perhaps  the  most  preferable,  on  account  of  the 
state  of  your  supplies  of  provisions. 

Sincerely  wishing  every  success,  and  hoping  to  send  you, 
and  receive  from  you,  good  accounts,  I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
etc. 

Christo  Myers,  Col  Act.  Q.  M.  G. 
Brig.  Gen.  PROCTOR 


430  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  53) 

Head  Quarters  Camp  LIeigs  2Sth  Apl.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  k 

The  columns  of  the  enernj'  are  now  in  siglit;  an  ofncer  has 
just  reconoitered  them  who  thinks  they  amount  to  between 
two  and  three  thousand  the  gunboats  beai'ing  their  artillery 
&c.  are  about  two  miles  from  us  at  this  moment  and  the  In- 
dians are  in  swarms  through  the  woods  on  each  side  of  the 
River.  ]My  men  are  in  fine  spirits  and  we  shall  soon  put  them 
upon  a  retrograde  march.  I  had  a  confidential  person  i\Ir. 
[William]  Oliver  with  a  few  attendants  upon  fleet  horses  to 
carry  this  to  the  settlements.^ 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Yr.  Obt.  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honb.  John  Armstrong,  Esqr.  Secy,  of  War. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Departi\ient  I\Iay  4th  1813. 

Har.  Pa.  69 

Sir: 

Your  dispatch  of  the  17th  ult.  [see  above]  covering  the  copy 
of  one  from  you  to  Governor  Shelby  of  the  9th  [see  above] 
has  been  received. 

The  theory  of  this  new  rule  with  regard  to  the  service  of 
militia  is  to  make  the  law  operate  on  individuals  not  on  collec- 
tive bodies  of  any  description.  So  long  as  we  call  for  com- 
panies, regiments  and  brigades  we  are  sure  to  have  a  plentiful 

CIIILICOTHE,  Mfiy  5,  1S13 
1.  An  expiess  has  this  rmmcnt  reached  town,  bearing  despatches  from  Kovernor 
Mei>'rs  at  Frankiinton  to  brigadier-general  M'Arthur  now  at  this  place.  The  Kovcrnor 
states  that  he  has  just  received  an  express  from  peneral  Harrison,  statinji  that  Fort 
Meigs  is  under  close  seise,  surrounded  by  about  SOOO  British  and  Indians,  which  c\it.s 
ofl  all  intercourse  between  him  and  the  frontiers,  and  requests  immediate  assistance 
from  this  state  to  open  the  communication ;  in  consequence  of  which  the  light  C'-m- 
panios,  and  nil  the  mounted  volunteers  who  can  possibly  bo  i-aised,  are  to  march  im- 
mediately for  the  Rapids.  The  drums  are  now  bcatincr  to  amis  ;  and  no  doubt  need  be 
entertained  but  that  the  "backwoodsmen"  will  do  their  duty.  Clay,  with  1500  Kcu- 
tiickians,  is  now  at  Portage  river,  IS  miles  from  the  Rapids.  It  is  hoped  he  will  not 
attempt  to  go  through  until  reinforced.  It  is  thought  that  Harrison's  effective  forces 
do'^s  not  exceed  1500  men;  yet  with  this  number  in  n  strong  garrison,  well  BuppHed 
vsfith  provisions,  ammunition,  and  cannon,  there  is  little  fear  of  his  sustaininK  a  defeat. 
P.  S.  It  is  about  two  hours  fcince  the  express  came  in ;  a  respectable  company  ia 
raised  and  will  march  in  the  morning.     Ohio  is  true. 

Nilei'  Register,  IV,  17S 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        431 

lack  of  privates  and  a  great  superabundance  of  officers.  If 
on  the  other  hand  we  call  for  individuals  we  either  get  them 
or  v/e  do  not.  In  the  first  case,  there  is  no  evil  to  remedy,  in 
tlie  last  the  remedy  is  to  do  what  you  propose,  to  embody  the 
privates  and  send  home  the  surplus  officers.  It  is  by  pursuing 
this  plan  that  we  shall  avoid  imposition,  that  the  state  shall 
-be  credited  v/ith  the  effective  force  she  gives,  that  the  Union 
shall  be  debited  Vvith  what  she  has  actually  received,  and  that 
the  commands  of  Generals  shall  not  be  nominal  only.  Gov- 
ernor Meigs  cannot  but  meet  you  half  way  in  conforming  to 
arrangements  productive  of  effects  like  these. 

You  will  have  seen  in  my  last  communication  my  opinion 
respecting  the  probability  of  an  attack  on  your  post. 

Major  General  [Henry]  Dearborn  sailed  from  Sackett's 
harbor  on  the  23d  ult  his  objects  are  the  destruction  of  the 
enemy's  naval  force  at  York,  (2  frigates)  and  the  taking  of 
forts  George  and  Erie  on  the  Niagara. 

Major  General  Harrison  Ft.  Meigs 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters  Camp  Meigs  5th  May  1813 

Har.  Pa.  5-9 

Sir: 

I  am  sorry  to  inform  you  of  another  disaster  to  the  Ken- 
tuck}'-  troops  not  indeed  bearing  any  comparison  to  that  of  the 
River  Raisin  in  point  of  killed  and  wounded  but  exceeding  it 
as  to  the  number  of  prisoners.  I  had  the  honor  to  inform  you 
in  my  letter  of  the  2Sth  Inst,  [see  above]  that  the  British 
Troops  destined  to  beseige  this  place  was  then  in  view.  On 
the  succeeding  night  they  broke  ground  upon  the  heights  op- 
posite and  on  the  following  morning  our  batteries  opened  upon 
them  and  continued  a  partial  firing  throughout  that  and  the 
following  day.  On  the  first  of  I\Iay  the  enemy  returned  it 
from  two  guns  a)id  one  mortar  battery  and  on  the  2nd  from 
a  third  Gun  Battery.  On  the  night  of  the  3d  they  passed  a 
part  of  their  troops  to  this  side  of  the  River  and  opened  an- 
other gun  and  mortar  battery  within  two  hundred  and  fifty 
yards  of  our  lines.  They  were  soon  however  driven  from 
that  position  and  obliged  to  take  one  at  a  more  respectful  dis- 
tance.    On  the  1st,  2nd,  and  3d  Inst,  the  fire  was  most  in- 


432  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

sislant  and  tremendous  Sy^  ^^^  §1/2  inch  shells  with  24  lb. 
ball  fell  in  shoAvers  in  our  camp  and  would  have  produced  the 
most  unfoi'tunate  effect  but  from  the  great  pains  and  labour 
which  had  been  bestowed  in  the  erection  of  Traverses  which 
in  a  great  degree  shielded  our  Camp  from  the  former.  For 
the  latter  there  was  no  prevention  but  that  of  taking  the  Bat- 
teries. About  12  o'clock  last  night  an  oflicer  arrived  in  a 
boat  from  Genl.  [Green]  Clay  to  inform  me  of  his  approach 
and  that  he  would  reach  this  place  in  about  2  hours.  I  im- 
mediately determined  upon  a  general  sally  and  sent  an  officer 
to  Genl.  Clay  directing  him  to  land  eight  hundred  men  some 
short  distance  above,  to  attack  and  carry  the  battery  spike 
the  cannon  and  destroy  the  artillery.  The  Genl.  w^as  unfor- 
tunately delayed  longer  than  he  expected  in  passing  the  Rapids 
and  the  detachment  destined  to  make  the  attack  did  not  reach 
the  landing  until  near  nine  o'clock.  This  however  did  not  pre- 
vent them  from  making  the  attempt  and  never  was  anything 
more  completely  successful.  The  four  Batteries  were  imme- 
diately taken  possession  of  and  their  defenders  driven  off  and 
the  cannon  spiked.  Here  the  work  of  our  men  was  done.  But 
that  confidence  which  always  attends  Militia  when  successful 
proved  their  ruin.  Although  there  was  time  sufficient  to  re- 
turn to  the  boats  before  a  reinforcement  arrived  to  the  enem^^, 
they  remained  upon  the  ground  in  spite  of  the  repeated  calls 
which  we  made  across  the  River  to  bring  them  back  and  suf- 
fered themselves  to  be  amused  and  drawn  into  the  woods  by 
some  feint  skirmishing  whilst  the  British  Troops  and  an  im- 
mense body  of  Indians  were  brought  up.  A  severe  action 
then  took  place.  The  British  immediately  intercepted  the  re- 
treat of  our  men  to  the  plain  on  the  river  where  they  would 
have  been  under  cover  of  our  cannon  but  about  one  hundred 
and  fifty  only — out  of  nearly  eight  hundred  effectives  thus 
escaped  to  the  boats.  When  the  Ballance  of  Genl.  Clay's  force 
made  its  appearance  and  attempted  to  land  above  the  garrison 
their  flank  was  attacked  by  a  large  body  of  Indians  I  imme- 
diately ordered  out  a  dctaclnnent  consisting  of  part  of  the 
I'Jlh  U.  S.  Regt.  about  one  hundred  twelve  months  volunteers 
and  some  ]\Iilitia.  They  however  succeeded  in  driving  the 
enemy  entirely  off.  Pursuant  to  the  plan  which  I  had  formed 
an  attack  was  then  made  upon  the  Batteries  on  this  side  of 
the  River  conducted  by  Col.  [John]  Miller  of  the  19th  Regt. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        433 

with  part  of  his  Regt..  the  aforesaid  vohinteei's  and  a  fev.- 
militia.  This  attack  was  also  completely  successful  the  enemy 
were  driven  from  their  works  a  number  killed  and  two  British 
ofiicers  and  forty  one  privates  brought  into  camp.  This  at- 
tack was  intended  to  be  simultaneous  with  that  on  the  other 
side  and  it  was  nearly  so.  Notv^dthstanding  the  severe  loss 
we  have  sustained  in  the  Kentucky  Militia  the  events  of  the 
day  have  been  honorable  to  the  American  army.  The  detach- 
ment under  Colo.  Miller  suffered  very  little  and  had  the  mili- 
tia been  contented  with  executing  what  they  v^ere  ordered  to 
do  every  object  which  I  had  contemplated  would  liave  been 
accomplished. 

I  have  only  time  to  add  that  I  am  confident  of  my  ability 
to  defend  this  place  until  the  expected  large  reinforcements 
arrive  and  that  1  am  with  great  respect  Sir  Yr.  Hb.  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honble  John  Armstrong,  Esq.  Secy,  of  War. 

You  will  pardon  the  inaccuracy  of  this  when  I  inform  you 
that  I  write  it  amidst  a  thousand  interruptions.  I  will  en- 
deavor to  transmit  a  more  definite  account  in  a  day  or  tv\'o  if 
the  fort  is  not  again  surrounded  by  Indians,  w^ho  have,  I  be- 
lieve, at  this  moment  all  returned. 

I  have  reason  to  believe  that  the  guns  of  the  enemy  were 
very  imperfectly  spiked. 

Harrison  and  Proctor 

In  an  agreement  for  the  exchange  of  prisoners  made  be- 
tween Brigadier  General  Proctor  Commanding  his  Brit- 
TANic  Majesty's  Forces  on  the  Miamies  and  ]\Iajor  Gen- 
eral W.  H.  Harrison  commanding  the  North  Western 
Army  of  the  United  States. 

May  7  1813 

Ear.  Pa.  _U 

The  prisoners  of  the  Kentucky  Militia  now  in  possession  of 
General  Proctor  to  be  sent  to  the  river  Huron  upon  the  condi- 
tion of  not  serving  against  Great  Britain  during  the  war  be- 
tw^een  that  powder  and  the  United  States.  Captain  [Samuel] 
Price  of  the  U.  S.  Lt.  Artillery  and  twenty  regulars  of  the  U. 
S.  Army  now  in  possession  of  General  Proctor  will  be  consid- 
ered as  exchanged  and  permitted  to  sei've  after  the  termina- 


434  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

tion  of  one  month.  Licuts.  Mclntire  and  Hailes  of  the  41st 
Regrt.  [British]  were  also  to  be  considered  as  exchanged  but 
are  not  to  serve  excepting  on  garrison  duty  until  the  expira- 
tion of  the  one  month.  The  allotment  of  prisoners  released  on 
each  side  to  be  furnished  to  the  respective  commissioners  of 
each  nation  and  the  surplusage  to  be  accounted  for  in  a  future 
settlement  of  the  account  of  Prisoners  agreeably  to  the  tariff 
of  exchange  heretofore  established. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison,  Majoi^  Genl  N.  W.  Army. 
Henry  G.  Procter 

Brig.  General  Commimding  His  Brittanic  Majesty's 

Forces  on  the  Miami 

Head  Qr.  Camp  ]\Ieigiis  7th  May  1813. 


Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  May  8th,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  70,  71 

Sir: 

Your  letters  of  the  21st  and  25th  ult.  [see  above]  have  been 
received.    I  never  meant  that  you  or  your  Artillery  or  stores 
for  the  campaign  now  collected  at  Fort  Meigs  should  be 
brought  back  to  Cleveland  for  embarkation.  My  intention  was 
that  the  Boats  built  there  should  move  along  the  coast  in  the 
wake  of  the  fleet  to  Sandusky  or  to  the  very  foot  of  the  Rapids, 
if  that  were  practicable  and  exjDodient,  taking  in  on  the  route 
what  was  v/anted.     The  Boats  building,  and  built,  by  Major 
[Thomas  Sidney]  Jessup  are  not  decked  but  strong  and  high 
sided  and  very  competent  to  the  navigation  of  the  Lake  par- 
ticularly between  the  chains  of  islands  and  the  west  shore.  ^ 
If  Major  [Levi]  Hukell's  continuance  with  you  as  Assistant  • 
Inspector  General  can  be  made  acceptable  to  General  Ilamp-          \ 
ton  it  will  be  entirely  so  to  me.     The  exchange  of  Captain           « 
[Daniel]  Baker  of  the  1st  Infantry  Vv'ill  enable  me  to  give  you  ' 
a  second  oflicer  of  the  same  grade  and  departinont.     Tlici'e 
will  be  business  enough  for  both.     You  may  multiply  your           i 
assistant  Dep.  Quarter  Masters  according  to  the  exigencies  of          j 
the  Service.    Governor  Meigs  has  recommended  IMr.  [Jose]:)h]           | 
Wheaton  for  the  appointment  of  D.  Q.  M.  Genei-al,  Undeceive           ' 
the  Governor.    What  are  the  proofs  of  the  facts  stated  by  you 
in  relation  to  Wheaton?    A  commission  is  sent  to  LIr.  [Sam- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        435 

iiel]  Wells.  The  frontiers  of  the  Territories  seem  to  be  in  a 
state  of  much  excitement  from  the  attacks  of  small  parties 
and  the  dread  of  large  ones.  Would  there  be  sufficient  reason 
fo]-  sending  Colonel  Johnson's  mounted  Riflemen  into  that  sec- 
tion of  the  District?  You  can  better  estimate  the  character 
of  their  demands  than  I.  So  long  as  they  have  Maiden  to  de- 
fend, or  you  to  destroy,  the  enemy  will  not  in  my  opinion  take 
a  new  object.  I  shall  soon  have  events  in  the  north  to  com- 
municate whicli  fortunate  or  otherwise  will  have  a  consider- 
able bearing  on  your  operations. 

P.  S.  Since  writing  this  letter  I  have  seen  one  from  Mr. 
Calvin  Pease  dated  at  Sandusky  and  stating  that  you  had  been 
attacked  on  the  1st  of  May.  We  look  confidently  for  a  good 
issue  to  the  conflict. 

]\rajor  General  HARRISON  FoRT  MEIGS. 

Harrison  General  Orders 

Head  Quarters  Fort  Meigs  9th  May  1813 

Har.  Pa.  22-26 
The  information  received  by  the  General  and  the  movements 
of  the  enemy  indicating  their  having  abandoned  the  siege  of 
this  post,  the  General  congratulates  his  troops  on  having  com- 
pletely foiled  their  foes  and  put  a  stop  to  that  career  of  vic- 
tory which  has  hitherto  attended  their  arms.  He  cannot  find 
words  to  express  his  sence  of  the  good  conduct  of  the  troops 
of  every  description  and  of  every  corps.  As  well  in  sustain- 
ing and  returning  the  heavy  fire  of  the  enemy  as  for  their 
assiduity  and  patience  in  the  performance  of  those  laborious 
duties  which  the  occasion  called  for.  When  merit  was  so 
general  indeed  almost  universal  it  is  difficult  to  discriminate. 
The  General  can  not  hov/ever  omit  to  mention  the  names  of 
those  whose  situation  gave  them  an  opportunity  of  being  more 
particularly  useful.  From  the  long  illness  of  Capt.  [Charles] 
Gratiot  of  the  Corps  of  Engineers  the  arduous  and  important 
duties  of  fortifying  the  camp  devolved  on  Capt.  [Eleazer 
Derby]  Wood  of  that  corps.  In  assigning  to  him  the  first  palm 
of  merit  as  far  as  it  relates  to  the  transactions  within  the 
works  the  General  is  convinced  that  the  decision  will  be 
awarded  by  every  individual  in  camp  who  witnessed  his  in- 
defatigable exertion,  his  consummate  skill  in  providing  for 


43G  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

the  safety  of  every  point  and  in  foiling  every  attempt  of  the 
enemy  and  liis  undaunted  bravery  in  the  performance  of  his 
duty  in  the  most  exposed  situations.  An  unfortunate  wound 
in  the  commencement  of  the  siege  deprived  the  General  after 
that  time  of  the  able  services  of  Major  [Amos]  Stoddard  of 
the  artillery  whose  zeal  and  talents  liad  been  eminently  useful. 
Captn.  [Charles]  Gratiot  in  the  remission  of  a  severe  illness 
took  charge  of  a  battery  and  managed  it  with  ability  and  ef- 
fect. Capt.  [Daniel]  Gushing  of  the  artillery  and  Capt.  Hall 
of  the  17th  Infy.  (but  doing  duty  with  the  former  corps)  were 
extremely  active  and  attentive  to  their  post.  To  Col.  [John] 
jMiller  and  IMajor  [George]  Todd  of  the  19th  U.  S.  Infantry 
]\Iajor  [James  V.]  Ball  of  the  Dragoons,  Sodwick  and  Major 
Ritzer  of  the  Ohio  militia  and  Major  Johnson  of  the  Kentucky 
militia  rendered  the  most  important  services  to  each  of  the 
above  gentlemen  as  well  as  to  each  Capt.  subaltern  non  com- 
missioned officer  and  private  of  their  respective  commands 
the  General  gives  his  thanks  and  expresses  his  warm  approba- 
tion. Also  to  Adjt.  Brown  ]\Ir.  Peters  conductor  of  artillery 
I\rr.  Lion  (principal  artificer)  and  Timberlee  and  to  Sergeant 
Henderson,  Tommes  and  ]\Ieldrum  who  severally  had  charge 
of  Batteries  and  Block  Houses.  The  Battery  managed  by  Ser- 
geant Ilendei'son  was  as  the  enemy  confessed  managed  with 
peculiar  efficacy  and  effect.  With  respect  to  the  sorties  which 
were  made  on  the  5th  Inst,  the  subsequent  information  which 
has  been  received  from  the  prisoners  has  given  the  gallant 
troops  which  were  engaged  on  those  occasions  additional 
claims  upon  the  gratitude  of  their  General.  It  is  ascertained 
that  in  both  Instances,  the  enemy  far  outnumbered  oui-  troops. 
The  General  gives  his  thanks  to  Brigadier  Genl.  [Green]  Clay 
for  the  promptitude  with  which  the  detachment  of  his  Brig- 
ade WTre  landed  and  the  assiduity  given  him  in  forming  them 
for  the  attack  on  the  left.  To  Col.  Boswell  and  ]\Iajor  Fletcher 
for  their  gallant)"y  and  good  conduct  in  leading  them  in  the 
charge  made  on  the  enemy  and  to  Capts.  [Petei-]  Dudley, 
Simmons  and  Metcalf  the  subalterns  non-cominissioned  offi- 
cers and  privates  for  the  distinguished  valou]'  with  NNiiich 
they  defeated  the  enemy.  The  Gen.  has  in  the  oi'dcr  of  the 
6th  inst.  expressed  his  sense  of  the  conduct  of  the  regular 
troops  and  volunteers  which  wei'e  engaged  in  the  sorties  on 
the  left  flank  but  he  omited  to  mention  Capt.  Sebree's  corn- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        437 

pHiiy  of  Ky.  ]\Iililia  wliose  gallantry  was  not  surpassed  by 
tliat  of  any  of  the  companies  wliich  foiig-lit  by  their  side.  The 
Pittsburg  Blues  led  by  Lt.  McGec  in  the  illness  of  their  gallant 
Captain  sustained  the  reputation  which  they  had  acquired  at 
IMississineway  the  Petersburg  Volunteers  and  Lt,  Drums  de- 
tachment discovered  equal  intrepidity.  To  the  detachments 
from  the  17th  &  19th  U.  S.  Regt.  under  their  respective  com- 
manders Capt.  [George]  Croghan,  [William]  Bradford, 
[Angus  Lev/is]  Langhan,  [Wilson]  Elliott,  [Asahael]  Near- 
ing  the  honourable  task  was  assigned  of  storming  the  British 
T'attories  defended  by  two  hundred  British  granadiers  and 
light  infantry  flaiiked  by  an  host  of  Indians  and  two  com- 
I)anics  of  Canadian  Militia,  Col.  Miller  speaks  in  the  highest 
terms  of  the  conduct  of  the  captains  before  mentioned  and 
Lieutenants  [James]  Campbell,  [David]  Gwynne,  [Stephen] 
Lee,  [Samuel]  Kircheval  and  [Jonathan]  Rees  and  of  Ensigns 
[Edmund]  Sliipp,  [Martin  L.]  Hav/kins,  [Batteal]  Harrison, 
[Chaj'les]  iMitchel  and  [John]  Stockton.  The  General  re- 
ciuests  Col.  ]\Iiller  Major  Todd  and  each  of  the  ofTicers  above 
named  together  with  all  the  oflicers  non  commissioned  officers 
and  soldiers  who  were  engaged  on  the  5th  Inst,  to  accept  his 
thanks.  The  general  is  under  the  highest  obligation  to  his 
staff  for  their  conduct  as  well  in  the  action  of  the  5th  Inst, 
as  for  the  assistance  which  he  received  from  them,  throughout 
the  seige.  Major  [Levi]  Hukill  the  acting  inspector.  General 
distinguished  himself  by  his  assiduity  in  forwarding  the  parts 
of  our  works  wiiich  was  most  necessary  and  which  was  most 
exposed  to  the  fire  of  the  enemy.  From  Major  [Richard] 
Graham,  his  aid  de  camp,  his  volunteer  aid  de  camp  J.  John- 
son Esqr.  and  from  Lt.  [John]  0.  Fallon  acting  assistant  ad- 
jutant general  as  well  as  from  the  Dep.  Qr.  Master  Mr. 
[James  T.]  Eubanks  he  received  the  greatest  assistance.  It 
rarely  occurs  that  a  General  has  to  complain  of  the  excessive 
ardour  of  his  men  yet  such  appears  always  to  be  the  case 
whenever  the  Kentucky  militia  are  engaged.  It  is  indeed  the 
source  of  all  their  misfortune.  They  appear  to  think  tha.t 
valor  can  alone  accomplish  anything.  The  General  is  led  to 
make  this  remark  from  the  conduct  of  Capt.  [William]  Dud- 
ley's Company  of  the  Regiment  as  he  has  understood  that  that 
gallant  officer  was  obliged  to  turn  his  espontoon  [?]  against 
his  company  to  oblige  them  to  desist  from  a  further  pursuits 


438  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

of  the  enemy  in  complyance  with  an  order  from  the  General. 
Such  temerity  although  not  as  disgraceful  is  scarcely  less  fatal 
than  cowardice.  And  in  the  instance  above  had  it  been  per- 
sisted in  would  have  given  a  different  result  to  the  action.  As 
the  whole  of  the  enemy's  force  v/hich  were  placed  near  the 
batteries  would  have  been  precipitated  upon  the  rear  of  our 
detachment.  The  pursuit  being  stopped  allowed  time  for  a 
new  disposition  under  cover  of  our  cannon  and  the  enemies 
batteries  were  attacked  and  carried  without  difficulty. 

John  O'Fallon,  Act  Assistant  Adjt.  Genl 
(A  Copy) 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  54) 

Head  Quarters  Camp  Miegs  9th  May  1813 

Har.  Pa.  10-13 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  the  enemy  having  been 
for  several  days  making  preparations  for  raising  the  seige 
of  this  post  accomplished  this  day  the  removal  of  the  last  of 
their  artillery  from  the  opposite  bank  and  about  12  o'clock 
left  their  encampment  below  were  soon  embarked  and  out  of 
sight.  I  have  the  Honor  to  enclose  you  an  agreement  entered 
into  between  Genl.  Procter  and  myself  for  the  discharge  of  the 
Prisoners  of  the  Konty.  IMilitia  in  his  possession  and  for  the 
exchange  of  the  officers  and  men  of  the  Regular  Troops  which 
were  respectively  possessed  by  us.  [see  May  7  above]  IMy 
anxiety  to  get  the  Kentucky  Troops  released  as  early  as  pos- 
sible induced  me  to  agree  to  the  dismission  of  all  the  prisoners 
I  had  Altho  their  was  not  as  many  of  ours  in  Genl.  Proctors 
possession.  The  surplusage  is  to  be  accounted  foi*  and  an 
eaqual  number  of  ours  released  from  their  parole,  whenever 
the  Government  may  think  proper  to  direct  it.  I  am  sorry  to 
inform  you  that  the  loss  of  the  Kentucky  Troops  in  killed  and 
missing  is  much  greater  than  I  had  at  first  believed.  It 
amounts  u]iwards  to  three  hundred  but  of  these  I  hope  that 
many  have  escaped  up  the  north  side  of  the  river  to  Fort 
Winchester.  However  much  this  unnecessary  waste  of  lives 
may  be  lamented  it  will  give  you  great  pleasure  to  learn  that 
the  two  actions  on  this  side  the  River  on  the  5th  were  infinitely 
more  important  and  more  Honorable  to  our  army  than  I  had 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        439 

at  first  conceived.  In  the  Sortie  made  upon  the  left  Flank 
Capt.  [Asahel]  Neaving.s  company  of  tlie  19th  Regt.  a  De- 
tachment of  12  Mos.  vohmtecrs  under  Maj.  Alexander  and 
three  companies  of  Kentucky  Militia  under  Colo.  [William  E.] 
Boswell  defeated  at  least  double  the  number  of  Indians  and 
British  militi'.  The  sortie  on  the  right  Avas  still  more  glori- 
ous. The  British  Battei'ies  in  that  direction  were  defended 
by  the  Granidier  and  Light  Infantry  companies  of  the  41st 
Regt.  amounting  to  two  hundred  eff(3ctives  and  two  militia 
companies  flanked  by  a  host  of  Indians.  The  detachment  sent 
to  attack  these  consisted  of  all  the  men  off  duty  belonging  to 
the  companies  of  [George]  Crogan  and  [William]  Bradford 
of  the  17th  Regt.  [Angus  LoA^is]  Langhani,  [Wilson]'  Elliott 
late  [Richard]  Grahams  and  Nearings  of  the  19th  about 
eighty  of  Major  Alexander's  volunteers  and  a  single  company 
of  Kentucky  militia  under  Captain  Sebree,  amounting  on  the 
whole  to  not  more  than  three  hundred  and  forty.  Yet  the 
event  of  the  action  was  not  a  moment  doubtful  and  had  not 
the  British  troops  been  covered  in  their  retreat  by  their  allies 
the  whole  of  them  would  have  been  taken. 

It  is  not  possible  for  Troops  to  have  behaved  better  than 
ours  did  throughout.  All  the  officers  exerted  themselves  to 
execute  my  orders  and  the  enemy  who  had  a  full  view  of  our 
operations  from  the  opposite  shore  declared  that  they  had 
never  seen  so  much  work  performed  in  so  short  a  time.  To 
all  the  commandants  of  corps  I  feel  particular  obligations. 
These  were  Col.  [John]  ]\Iiller  of  the  19th  Regt.  of  Infy.  Col. 
Mills  of  the  Ohio  Llilitia  Maj.  [Amos]  Stoddard  of  the  Ar- 
tillery Maj.  [James  V.]  Ball  of  the  Dragoons  and  Maj.  [John 
T.]  Johnson  of  the  Kentucky  Militia.  Capt.  [Charles] 
Gratiott  of  the  engineers  having  been  for  a  long  tiine  much 
indisposed  the  task  of  fortifying  this  post  devolved  on  Capt. 
[Eleazer  Derby]  Wood.  It  could  not  have  been  placed  in 
better  hands.  Permit  me  to  recommend  him  to  the  President 
and  to  assure  you  that  any  mark  of  his  approbation  bestowed 
on  Capt.  Wood  VvT)uld  be  highly  gratifying  to  tlie  whole  of  the 
troops  who  witnessed  liis  arduous  exertions.  Froin  Maj. 
[Levi]  Hukill  acting  Inspector  General  my  aid  de  Camp  Maj. 
[Richard]  Graham,  Lieut.  [John]  O'Fallon  who  has  done  the 
duty  of  Asst.  Ajd.  Genl.  in  the  absence  of  Maj.  [Nathaniel] 
Adams  and  my  volunteer  aid  de  camp  John  Johnson  Esq.  I 
received  the  most  useful  assistance. 


4'10  INDIANA  HISTOPJCAL  COLLECTIONS 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  list  of  the  liillod  and 
wounded  during  the  siege  and  in  the  two  soi'tics.  Those  of 
the  latter  was  much  greater  than  I  had  at  first  expected. 
Want  of  sleep  and  exposure  to  the  continued  rains  which  have 
fallen  almost  every  day  for  some  time  past  renders  me  iri- 
capable  of  mentioning  many  interesting  particulars  amongn 
others  a  most  extraordinary  proposition  of  Colo.  Proctors  en 
the  subject  of  the  Indians  within  our  Boundary.  These  shall 
form  the  subject  of  a  communication  to  be  made  tomorrow  or 
next  day  and  for  which  I  will  provide  a  safer  conveyance  than 
that  which  carried  this.  All  the  Prisoners  and  deserters  agree 
in  saying  that  the  information  given  to  Maj.  Stoddard  by 
Pvyland  of  the  British  haveing  launched  a  sloop  of  war  this 
spring  is  incorrect  and  the  most  of  them  say  that  the  one 
which  is  now  building  will  not  be  launched  for  many  weeks. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir  with  great  respect  yr.  obt.  Huni1\ 
Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Hon.  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Senj.  of  TF«r 

P.  S.  Capt.  [Samuel]  Price  of  the  Reg-t.  D.  Artillery  and 
the  twenty  regulars  prisoners  with  Genl.  Procter  were^aken 
on  the  north  \V.  side  of  the  river  with  the  Kenty.  militia.  We 
had  no  prisoner  taken  on  this  side  Tluring  the  seige.  The  re- 
turn of  the  killed  and  wounded  could  not  be  gotten  ready  for 
this  convej'ance. 


Gen.  Green  Clay  to  Harrison 

Camp  At  Fort  Meigs,  May  [9],  18L3 

Har.  Pa.  15-17 

Sir 

On  the  5th  inst.  about  8  o'clock,  A.  Isl.  descending  tlie  i\Iia]ni 
of  the  lake  about  midway  the  Rapids,  with  1200  of  the  Ken- 
tucky troops  in  18  flat  bottomed  boats,  I  was  met  by  captain 
Hamilton  [of  the  Ohio  I\Iilitia]  and  a  subaltern,  who  delivered 
me  (as  he  said)  the  orders  of  major  general  Harrison  to  the 
following  effect: 

You  must  detach  about  800  men  from  your  brigade  who  will 
land  at  a  point  I  will  shew  about  one  or  one  and  half  miles 
above  the  Fort,  and  I  will  conduct  them  to  the  British  bat- 
teries on  the  left  bank  of  the  river.     They  must  take  posses- 


rff*^'Y-V-'Tl''Tito^Vi<iil-'irtifiln'.TftaHTtV.^TI«1ffiTwii<yiVT^^ 


HARPJSOX:     ]^,IESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        441 

sion  of  the  onemy's  cannon,  spike  tliem,  cut  down  the  carriages 
and  return  to  their  boats.  Obsen'ing  that  the  British  force 
at  their  batteries  was  inconsiderable,  but  tliat  tiieir  main  force 
was  at  the  old  garrison,  about  one  and  a-half  miles  below,  on 
the  same  side  of  the  river;  that  the  Indian  forces  were  chiefly 
on  the  riglit  ban.k  of  the  river.  The  balance  of  the  men,  under 
your  connnand,  must  land  on  the  right  bank,  opposite  the  hrst 
landing,  and  will  fight  their  vray  ilirough  the  Indians  to  the 
Fort  observing  that  the  route  thus  to  be  taken  would  be  shewn 
by  a  subaltern  oflicer,  there  in  company  v.ith  capt.  Hamilton, 
who  would  land  the  Perogue  at  the  point  on  the  right  bank, 
at  which  the  boats  would  land. 

The  order  of  descending  the  river  in  boats  was  the  same 
as  the  order  of  march  in  line  of  battle,  in  solid  column,  each 
officer  taking  position  according  to  his  rank.  Col.  [William] 
Dudley,  the  eldest  colonel,  led  the  van,  and  in  this  order  the 
river  had  been  descended.  As  soon  as  capt.  Hamilton  had  de- 
livered these  orders,  being  in  the  thirteenth  boat  from  the 
front,  I  directed  him  to  proceed  immediately  to  col.  [William] 
Dudley  and  order  him  to  take  the  men  in  the  12  front  boats, 
and  execute  general  Harrison's  orders  on  the  left  bank  of  the 
river;  and  post  his  (capt.  Hamilton's)  subaltern  on  the  right 
banks  to  conduct  myself  with  the  men  in  the  six  rear  boats  to 
the  Fort.  I  ordered  the  5  boats  in  the  rear  to  fall  in  a  line 
and  follow  me.  High  winds  and  the  rapidity  of  the  current 
drove  4  of  the  rear  boats  ashore  in  the  attempt  to  follow  on 
according  to  order,  where  they  remained  a  short  time,  suffi- 
cient however  to  detain  them  half  or  3  quarters  of  a  mile  in 
the  rear.  To  land  according  to  order,  I  kept  close  along  the 
right  bank  until  opposite  col.  Duley's  landing.  There  I  found 
no  guide  left  to  conduct  me  to  the  Fort  as  capt.  Hamilton  had 
promised.  I  then  made  an  attempt  to  cross  the  river  and 
join  col.  Dudley  but  from  the  rapid  current  on  the  falls  I  was 
unable  to  land  on  the  point  with  him.  Being  nearly  half 
across  the  j'iver,  and  the  waves  running  too  high  to  risk  the 
boat  then  driving  dovni  the  cun-oit  sidewise — veered  about 
the  boat  and  rowed  the  best  way  we  could  to  save  our  boats. 
i\Iy  attempt  to  cross  the  river  to  col.  Dudly,  occasioned  all  the 
boats  (I  presume  in  the  rear  of  me)  and  which  were  then  out 
of  hailing  distance,  to  cross  o\'er  and  land  with  Col.  Dudley. 
Having  been  defeated  in  a  landing  on  the  left,  we  then  en- 

Sl— 22Cf,4 


442  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

deavored  to  effect  one  on  the  riglit,  even  without  a  guide:  But 
before  a  landing-  could  bo  effected  we  received  a  brisk  fire  from 
the  enemy  on  the  shore,  which  was  returned  and  kept  up  on 
both  sides  and  I  was  in  this  unavoidable  situation  compelled  to 
make  to  Fort  Meigs  with  no  other  force  than  about  50  men  on 
board  the  other  boats  being  still  in  the  rear  and  to  receive  the 
enemy's  fire  until  we  arrived  under  tlie  protection  of  the  Fort. 
Col.  [William  E.]  Boswell's  command  (except  the  men  in  my 
boat)  having  landed  to  join  col.  Dudley,  were,  as  I  have  been 
informed  ordered  by  captain  Hamilton  immediately  to  em- 
bark and  land  on  the  right  hand  shore  about  a  mile  above  the 
Fort,  and  prepare  to  fight  his  way  through  to  the  garrison. 

The  colonel  embarked,  landed  as  he  conceived  at  the  proper 
point,  pursuant  to  captain  Hamilton's  order,  and  was  forming 
his  men  in  order  of  battle,  when  he  was  met  by  captain  Shaw, 
and  ordered  to  march  into  the  garrison  at  open  order,  the 
safest  route. 

When  my  o^vn  boat  landed  we  were  met  by  two  men  who 
took  charge  of  the  boat  as  we  understood  to  bring  her  under 
the  protection  of  the  fort  batteries.  Believeing  our  baggage 
to  be  thus  made  safe,  we  forbid  our  servants  to  carry  any 
portion  of  it,  but  loaded  them  with  cannon  balls  which  they 
bore  to  the  fort.  Our  baggage  was  however  taken  by  the 
Indians  in  a  very  short  time  after  we  left  the  boat.  Upon 
receiving  the  orders  of  captain  Hamilton,  I  asked  if  he  had 
brought  spikes  to  spike  the  enemy's  cannon.  To  which  he 
replied  he  had  plenty. 

I  am  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

Green  Clay,  Brig.  Gen. 
His  Excellency,  Maj.  Gen.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  55) 

Head  Quarters  Lov^ER  Sandusky  13th  May  1813 

Har.  Pa.  2S-S7 

Sir: 

Having  ascertained  that  the  enemy  (Indians  as  v^ell  as  Brit- 
ish) had  entirely  abandoned  the  neighbourhood  of  the  Rapids 
I  left  the  command  of  Camp  Meigs  with  Gen.  [Green]  Clay 
and  came  here  last  night,  [for^  the  purpose  of  providing  for 

1.    The  parti5  enclosed  In  brackets  were  ixndcrRcorcd  by  p.omo  one  !n   Wat'hlnirtor). 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        443 

the  better  security  of  this  post  and  to  procure  some  Troops 
for  the  protection  of  Cleveland.  Another  motive  for  the  trip 
was  the  security  of  the  prisoners  of  war  whicli  were  sent  to 
the  River  Huron  in  their  march  of  40  miles  through  a  Wilder- 
ness from  the  settlements  at  the  mouth  of  Huron  to  Mansfield. 
Arms  and  ammunition  have  been  forwarded  from  this  place 
to  them  and  I  sliall  take  care  to  have  the  country  well  recon- 
noitred between  this  post  and  Lake  Erie,  the  only  route  by 
which  a  body  of  Indians  could  approach  the  prisoners.  I 
thought  those  steps  proper  altho  I  have  the  solemn  promise 
of  Gen  Procter  that  the  Indians  should  not  be  suffered  to  go 
in  that  direction.]^  It  is  with  the  greatest  satisfaction  I  in- 
form you  Sir,  that  I  have  every  reason  to  believe  that  the  loss 
of  the  Ky.  Troops  in  killed  on  the  North  side  of  the  River 
does  not  exceed  fifty.  On  the  10th  and  11th  Inst.  I  caused 
the  ground  which  was  the  scene  of  the  action  and  its  environs 
to  be  carefully  examined  and  after  the  most  diligent  search 
45  bodies  only  of  our  men  were  discovered.  Amongst  them 
was  the  (weak  and  obstinate  but  brave)  leader  of  the  detach- 
ment Col.  [William]  Dudley.  No  other  officer  of  note  fell  in 
the  Action.  I  have  strong  reason  to  believe  that  a  consider- 
able number  of  the  Kentuckians  effected  their  retreat  up  the 
River  to  fort  Winchester. 

Gen.  Proctor  did  not  furnish  me  with  a  return  of  the 
Prisoners  in  his  possession  altho  repeatedly  promised.  His 
retreat  was  as  precipitate  as  it  could  properly  be  leaving  a 
number  of  Cannon  Ball,  a  new  Elligant  Sling  carriage  for 
Cannon  and  other  valuable  articles.  The  night  before  his 
departure  two  persons  that  were  employed  in  the  British  Gun 
boats  (American  by  Birth)  deserted  to  us.  The  informa- 
tion they  gave  me  was  very  interesting.  They  say  that  the 
Indians  of  which  there  were  from  1600  to  2000  left  the  Brit- 
ish the  day  before  their  departure  in  a  high  state  of  disatis- 
faction,  from  the  great  loss  which  they  had  sustained  in  the 
several  engagements  of  ihe  5th  and  the  failure  of  the  British 
in  accomplishing  their  promise  of  taking  the  post  at  the  Rap- 
ids. From  the  account  given  by  those  men  my  opinion  is  con- 
firmed of  the  great  superiority  of  the  enemy  which  were  de- 
feated by  our  Troops  in  the  Troops  sallies  made  on  the  5th 
inst.  That  led  by  Col.  [John]  Miller  did  not  exceed  350  men 
and  it  is  very  certain  that  tlicy  defeated  200  British  Regulars, 


444  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

150  militia  and  4  or  500  Indians.  That  American  Rcegulars 
(altho  they  were  raw  recruits)  and  such  men  as  compose  the 
Pittsburgh  (Pa.)  &  Petersburg  (Va.)  vohmteers  should  be- 
have well  is  not  to  be  wondered  at.  But  that  a  company  of 
Militia  should  maintain  its  ground  against  four  times  its  num- 
bers (as  did  Capt.  Sebrees  of  the  Ky.)  is  truly  astonishing. 
These  brave  fellows  were  at  length  however  entirely  sur- 
rounded by  Indians  and  would  have  been  entirely  cut  off  but 
for  the  gallantry  of  Lt.  [David]  Gwymie  of  the  19th  Regt.  who 
with  part  of  Capt.  [WilsoJi]  Elliott  Compy  charged  the  enemy 
and  release!  the  Kentucldans.  I  enclose  you  a  hst  of  the  killed 
and  wounded  during  the  whole  seige.  It  is  considerably  larger 
than  I  had  supposed  it  would  be  when  I  last  wrote  to  you.  But 
it  is  satisfactory  to  know  that  they  did  not  bleed  uselessly,  but 
in  the  course  of  successful  exertions.  The  returii  does  not 
embrace  the  ones  who  fell  on  the  N.  W.  side  of  the  IMiami. 

[I  have^  no  immediate  fears  for  any  of  our  pof^  ts  but  Fort 
Winchester.  Genl  Clay  left  there  an  immense  deposit  of  Pro- 
visions but  he  certainly  did  not  manifest  his  usual  judgment 
in  not  reinforcing  it.  As  soon  as  I  do  what  is  requisite  in 
this  quarter  I  shall  proceed  to  upper  Sandusky  and  dispatch 
some  Troops,  the  first  that  I  can  command  to  Fort  Winchester. 
I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  Gen.  Procter's  proposition 
to  me  to  exchange  the  Ky.  Militia  in  his  possession  for  the 
friendly  Indians  v/ithin  our  line.  I  ansv/ered  him  that  the 
subject  w^ould  be  refered  to  you  but  that  1  was  pursuaded  it 
would  never  be  assented  to.]^ 

You  will  also  receive  herewith  a  monthly  return  of  the 
Troops  at  Camp  Meigs.  For  the  last  month  the  communica- 
tion with  the  other  posts  being  cut  off,  the  returns  were  not 
received.  A  copy  of  Gen.  Clay's  Report  [see  May  9  above] 
to  me  of  the  manner  of  his  Executing  my  order  for  the  at- 
tack at  the  enemies  Batteries  is  likewise  forwarded — By  which 
it  will  be  seen  that  my  intentions  were  perfectly  understood — 
and  the  great  facility  with  which  they  might  have  been  exe- 
cuted is  apparent  to  every  individual  who  v/itnessed  the  scene. 
Indeed  the  cannon  might  have  been  spiked,  the  carriages  cut 
to  pieces,  the  magazine  destroyed  and  the  retreat  eU'ectcd  to 
the  Boats  without  the  loss  of  a  man.  As  none  were  killed  ii' 
taking  the  Batteries,  so  complete  was  the  surprise.  Ai)  <  -■ 
tensive  open  plain  intervenes  between  the  River  and  the  iiiH 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        445 

ui,)()]i  which  the  Batteries  of  tlie  enemy  were  placed.  The 
Hill  plain  and  was  raked  by  4  of  our  18  pounders  a  12  and  a 
six.  The  enemy  even  before  their  guiis  were  spiked  could  not 
have  brought  a  single  gun  to  bear  upon  it.  So  perfectly  se- 
cured was  their  retreat  the  150  men  who  came  off  effected  it 
without  loss  and  brought  off  some  of  the  wounded  one  of  them 
u)?<on  tlie  backs  of  his  comrades.  The  Indians  followed  them 
to  the  woods  but  dared  not  enter  into  the  plain. 

I  am  unable  to  form  a  coii'ect  estimate  of  the  Enemies  forces 
which  attacked  Fort  Meigs.  The  prisoners  varied  much  in 
Ihoir  accounts.  Those  who  made  them  least  stated  that  the 
Regulars  at  550  and  Militia  800  but  the  number  of  Indians 
were  beyond  comparison  greater  than  have  ever  been  brought 
into  the  field.  Numbers  arrived  after  the  seige  commenced. 
1  have  caused  their  Camps  in  the  south  East  side  of  the  River 
to  be  particularly  examined  and  the  general  opinion  is  that 
there  could  not  have  been  fewer  on  that  side  than  1000  or 
]20(K    They  are  indeed  the  efficient  force  of  the  enemy. 

[Our'  officers  are  unanimously  of  opinion  that  100  of  our 
men  could  in  the  woods  defeat  200  British  Regulars  easier 
than  100  Indians. 

The  public  property  has  suffered  very  much  during  the 
siege.  The  24  pound  shot  and  81/2  inch  shells  destroyed  the 
roofs  of  all  of  our  Block  Houses  and  Stores  and  the  rains 
which  fell  the  greater  part  of  the  time  has  greatly  injured 
many  articles.  I  am  under  the  greatest  apprehension  for  the 
salted  beef  and  Pork  which  had  been  put  down  in  bath.  Be- 
fore the  siege  commenced  the  making  of  barrels  to  repack  it 
liad  progressed  considerably.  The  seasoned  timber  was  how- 
ever nearly  all  made  up  and  Kiln  drying  of  the  rest  was  neces- 
sarily suspended.  Gen.  Clay  has  particular  directions  to 
attend  to  it  and  no  one  has  more  judgment  in  such  matters.]^ 

I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favours 
of  14th  17th  18th  and  28th  Ult.  and  4  Inst,     [see  above] 

Upon  a  reconsideration  of  all  the  circumstances  which  in- 
duced me  to  order  Gen.  [Duncan]  Mc Arthur  &  Col.  [John] 
r^liller  to  repair  to  the  Miami  Rapids  I  do  not  consider  that  I 
merit  the  rebuke  contained  in  your  letter  of  the  14th  Ult. 
When  the  order  was  given  to  Colo.  Miller  an  Ohio  Militia  Col. 
was  on  his  way  to  camp  Meigs  whose  rank  would  have  given 
him  the  command  after  the  departure  of  Gen.  Leftwich  and 


446  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Crooks  and  whose  militia)y  information  is  perhaps  as  hmited 
as  that  of  any  person  who  ever  held  a  commission.  Lt.  Col. 
[John  B.]  Campbell  of  the  19th  Rejxt.  was  shortly  to  return 
from  Furlough  and  was  intended  to  supply  Col.  IMillers  place. 
In  the  meantime  an  officer  every  way  adequate  was  found  on 
the  spot  in  the  person  of  Major  [John]  Whistler. 

When  the  order  was  first  given  to  Gen.  ]McArthur  to  repair 
to  the  Kapids  in  the  event  of  his  receiving  the  appointment, 
it  was  done  from  the  motive  of  securing  an  officer  of  rank  and 
experience  for  the  command  of  that  post. 

I  think  I  am  incapable  of  suffei-ing  myself  to  be  governed 
by  any  personal  consideration  in  opposition  to  my  duty  and 
the  Public  interest  I  believe  that  no  one  who  is  acquainted 
with  the  situation  of  my  family  when  I  last  come  into  the  set- 
tlement can  believe  that  there  ever  existed  stronger  claims 
upon  the  feelings  of  a  husband  and  a  Father  than  those  by 
which  I  was  assailed  urging  my  remaining  at  Cincinatti  for 
some  weeks.  The  afflictions  and  suffering  of  the  Slajor  part 
of  my  family  are  without  a  parallel,  yet  it  will  I  think  be  ad- 
mitted from  the  promptitude  of  my  return  to  Fort  i\Ieigs  that 
I  should  not  have  been  induced  to  go  into  the  settlement  at  all 
had  I  not  supposed  that  it  was  my  proper  post — and  that  a 
Junior  Officer  could  be  entrusted  with  the  command  of  Fort 
Meigs.  I^Iy  after  experience  has  convinced  me  of  the  correct- 
ness of  this  opinion.  The  order  to  Gen.  ]\IcAruthur  vras  long 
since  countermanded. 

I  have  not  yet  been  honored  with  your  command  upon  tlie 
subject  of  the  assembling  the  Troops,  the  direction  of  tlicir 
march  etc  nor  do  I  know  whether  it  is  expected  that  I  should 
give  directions  with  regard  to  the  providing  of  Artillery. 
ordinance  Stores  etc.  From  a  letter  writeen  by  Major  [Isaac] 
Craig  at  Pittsburgh  to  llajor  [Amos]  Stoddard  it  would  seem 
that  order  had  been  given  to  the  Dy.  Commander  of  OrdnariCe 
there  to  make  the  proper  provisions.  I  can  now  state  to  you 
a  circumstance  which  prudence  forbid  me  to  mention  in  any 
former  letter — at  the  commencement  of  the  seige  we  had  but 
360,18  Pd.  shot  and  less  than  that  quanity  for  12  pounder.<. 
the  v/hole  quanity  of  the  former  sent  on  from  Pittsljurgh  was 
500.  Vv''e  were  therefore  obliged  to  be  extremely  sparing  of 
our  fire  from  the  18  pounders  or  I  do  believe  from  the  effect 
which  they  produced  on  the  Enemy's  Batteries  we  could  have 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        447 

complctelj'-  silenced  them  before  they  were  spiked.  Their  12 
])ounders  suppHed  us  with  shot  of  that  description  but  they 
had  no  eightecns  their  larp;e  guns  being  all  tvsTnty  fours. 

I  am  sorry  to  inform  you  that  Major  [Amos]  Stoddard  died 
the  night  before  I  left  the  Rapids  of  a  Lock  Jaw  produced  by 
a  slight  wound  from  the  fragement  of  a  shell  which  struck 
him  on  the  thigh.  Several  have  died  in  this  way  from  their 
great  unavoidable  exposure  to  cold. — but  the  Sergeons  assured 
me  and  my  own  observations  sanctioned  the  opinion  that  per- 
haps there  never  was  so  many  instances  of  desperate  wounds 
being  likely  to  do  v/ell.  The  Gallant  Capt.  [William]  Brad- 
ford will  recover. 

I  shall  go  from  here  to  upper  Sandusky  and  shall  take  my 
station  at  Delaware  or  Franldinton  until  the  troops  are  assem- 
bled. Gen.  Clay  who  commanded  at  the  Rapids  is  a  man  of 
Capacity  and  is  entirely  to  be  relied  on.  I  have  the  Honor 
to  be  with  great  respect 

Sir  your  Humble  Servt. 

William  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Sectary  of  War 

P.  S.  I  am  mortified  upon  examing  the  enclosed  monthly  re- 
turn. You  will  pardon  its  slovenly  appearance  when  you  are 
informed  that  it  was  made  by  a  young  gentleman  who  never 
did  anything  of  the  kind  before.  Nor  was  there  an  officer 
in  Camp  Meigs  Hukel  excepted  &  the  two  captains  of  the 
Engenier  Corps  who  could  have  made  it  better.  Capt.  Adams 
has  not  yet  joined  me. 

Meigs:    General  Orders 
Headquarters,  Lov^er  Sandusky,  May  14,  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  223 

The  governor  of  Ohio  hastens  to  inform  the  good  citizens 
of  the  state,  who  have  rallied  and  repaired  to  his  standard, 
upon  his  call  to  'arms'  with  a  promptitude  and  zeal  which 
proves  their  pati'iotism  and  love  of  country,  that  their  serv- 
ices are  rendered  unnecessary  by  a  change  of  circumstances 
whicli  required  the  call.  The  most  important  fortress  of  the 
western  countiy,  Camp  Meigs,  was  invested  by  the  enemy — 
information  of  it  reached  his  excellency,  and  orders  immedi- 
ately issued.     In  an  instant  you  were  soldiers — the  prompt- 


^asPA'At^.^fig-lf^^i, 


448  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ness,  good  order  and  regularity  of  j'our  inarch  excites  admira- 
tion. His  excellency  is  entirely  satisfied  with  your  conduct; 
and  for  it  returns  his  warmest  thanks.  He  is  sensible  your 
domestic  avocations  at  this  season  of  the  year,  must  require 
your  laobrs  at  home — a  sufficient  force  reached  his  headquar- 
ters to  afford  adequate  relief,  which  he  desigiied  to  command 
in  person — many  more  were  on  their  march,  but  thanks  to 
the  valor,  talents  and  exertions  of  the  commanding  general, 
and  his  brave  little  army,  they  have  convinced  the  enemy  of 
the  rashness  of  his  enterprize,  compelled  him  to  raise  the  seige, 
and  seek  his  ovni  safety  in  flight!  The  governor,  therefore, 
gives  you  an  honorable  discharge,  which  I  am  ordered  to  make 
public;  and  also  that  you  have  the  thanks  and  respect  of  his 
excellencj^  the  commanding  general  who  is  advised  of  your 
movements. 

By  his  excellency's  command, 

Henry  Brush 


Harrison  to  Poague 

(No  date  given)    (May  15,  1813) 

Penn.  Mag.  of  History,  XXXII,  117 

Dear  Sir: 

The  enemy  have  fled  &  as  it  is  difficult  to  get  provisions  in 
front  for  the  pursuit,  you  will  be  so  obliging  as  order  Col. 
[Philip]  Barber  to  return  immediately  to  St.  IMarys  with  his 
Regiment  as  well  as  Jenkinsons  Battalion  &  the  Col.  must 
have  directions  to  funiish  a  small  escort  of  from  20  to  30  men 
with  the  waggons  which  may  be  ready  to  come  out  with  pro- 
visions from  St.  Marys.  With  your  own  Regiment  you  will 
continue  to  open  the  road  on  to  Fort  Defiance  &  bring  on  with 
you  the  stores  &c.  of  the  ]\Iilitia  which  are  under  the  charge  of 
Col.  [William]  Jennings.  You  will  be  pleased  also  to  dispatch 
Capt.  [Angus]  Langham  immediately  with  all  the  Beeves  ex- 
cepting about  60  &  these  sixty  you  had  better  send  back  to 
Col.  Jennings  to  keep. 

Order  Capt.  Langham  to  proceed  with  the  utmost  rapidity 
with  the  beeves  &  with  the  pack-horses,  which  were  at  Col. 
Jennings  block  house.  If  you  did  not  bring  the  pack-horses 
with  you  Capt.  Langham  must  not  wait  for  them  Init  must 
come  on  with  the  beeves  &  when  Col.  Jennings  sends  on  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        449 

paclc  horses  to  you,  you  Avill  be  pleased  to  dispatch  20  men 
under  a  subaltern  with  them, 

Yours  respectfully 

Wm.  H.  Harrison 
Col.  [Robert]  Poague 

1  have  ordered  your  tents  &  baggage  to  be  brought  in  from 
St.  I\Iarys  to  you.  You  had  better  send  back  the  Quarter- 
Tklaster  to  attend  to  bringing  them  on. 

Harrison:    General  Orders 

Head  Quarters,  Franklinton,  jNIay  16th,  1813 

Dawson's  Harrison,  395 

The  commanding  General  has  observed  with  the  warmest 
gratitude  the  astonishing  exertions,  which  have  been  made  by 
liis  excellency  governor  Meigs,  and  the  generals  and  other 
militia  ofTicers  of  this  state,  in  collecting  and  equiping  a  body 
of  troops  for  the  relief  of  camp  INIeigs.  But  the  efforts  of 
these  men  would  have  been  unavailing,  had  thej"  not  been  sec- 
onded by  the  patriotic  ardor  of  every  description  of  citizens, 
which  has  induced  them  to  leave  their  homes,  at  a  most  critical 
season  of  the  year,  regardless  of  every  consideration  but  that 
of  rendering  service  to  their  country.  The  General  found  the 
road  from  Lower  Sandusky  to  this  place,  literally  covered 
with  men,  and  amongst  them  many  who  had  shared  in  the 
toils  and  dangers  of  the  revolutionary  war,  and  on  whom,  of 
course,  there  existed  no  legal  claim  for  military  services.  The 
General  has  every  reason  to  believe,  that  similar  efforts  have 
been  made  in  Kentucky.  He  offers  to  all  those  brave  men 
from  both  states,  his  sincere  acknowledgements ;  and  is  hapjn- 
to  inform  them,  that  there  is  at  present  no  necessity  for  their 
longer  continuance  in  the  field.  The  enemy  has  fled  with 
precipitation  from  camp  Meigs,  and  that  is  in  a  much  better 
situation  to  resist  an  attack,  than  when  the  last  siege  was 
commenced. 

By  order  of  the  General, 

R.  Graham,  Aid 


450  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

HARrasoN  to  Secretary  of  War 

(No.  56.) 

Head  Quarters  Franklinton  18th  May,  1813 

^  Har.  Pa.  S8-S9 

Sir: 

I  had  the  honor  this  moment  to  receive  your  favour  of  the 
8th  inst.  [see  above]  I  am  perfectly  convinced  that  noth- 
ing can  be  more  correct  than  the  opinion  you  have  given  of 
the  nature  and  extent  of  the  warfare  that  is  and  will  be  car- 
ried on  upon  the  frontiers  of  the  Territories.  I  will  at  least 
guarantee  that  no  attempt  in  force  will  be  made  on  the  Wa- 
bash, nor  do  I  believe  that  any  other  than  light  parties  will 
invest  the  Illinois.  Dixon  if  he  has  artillery  may  attempt  to 
carry  one  of  the  posts  on  the  Mississippi  or  perhaps  attack 
some  of  the  exposed  villages,  but  I  rather  suppose  that  he  will 
not  descend  lower  than  Prairie  de  Chien.  There  is  no  object 
that  would  authorize  the  risk  and  there  would  be  great  diffi- 
culty to  persuade  the  Indians  to  attack  posts  and  villages  in 
any  other  way  than  by  treachery.  I  am  perfectly  acquainted 
with  the  Wabash  and  Illinois  Indians  and  I  am  fully  persuaded 
that  since  the  departure  of  Tecumseh  and  his  brother  from 
that  quarter  the  larger  part  will  remain  neutral.  Such  is  the 
activity  of  these  people  in  the  kind  of  warfare  which  they 
carry  on  upon  the  frontiers  that  a  very  few  can  do  a  great 
deal  of  mischief.  I  ascertained  that  seven  of  those  scoundrels 
killed  no  less  than  thirty  odd  of  our  people  (men,  women,  & 
children)  in  the  course  of  a  few  weeks  of  the  spring  of  1812. 
I  shall  set  out  for  Cincinnati  the  day  after  tomorrow.  I  will 
from  thence  be  able  to  give  you  more  correct  opinion  of  the 
course  which  is  to  be  pursued  to  protect  the  frontiers.  I  will 
answer  your  inquiry  on  the  sub.  of  [Joseph]  Wheaton  to- 
morrow, and  am  with  great  respect  sir  Your 

Humble  Servant. 

Hon.  JOHN  Armstrong  •    ^iliam  Henry  Harrison 


(No.  57) 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
Head  Quarters  Franklinton  May  18th,  1813 

gjjj.  Har.  Pa.  40-47 

In  the  evening  of  the  day  on  which  I  had  the  honor  to 
address  you  from  Lower  Sandusky  Gov.  ]\Ieigs  arrived  at  that 
place  with  about  500  mounted  and  dismounted  Infantry. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        451 

Upon  a  consultation  with  the  Gov.  it  was  determined  that 
all  the  Troops  of  which  there  were  as  he  supposes,  two  or 
three  thousand  in  motion,  should  be  dismissed  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible, excepting  two  hundred  for  the  Garrison  of  Lower 
Sandusky.  There  appeared  to  be  no  motive  for  retaining 
them  as  it  was  evident  that  the  enemy,  Indians  as  well  as 
British,  had  returned  to  I\Ialden.  Expresses  were  sent  along 
the  principal  roads  with  directions  for  all  the  troops  of  eveiy 
description  to  return ;  more  than  three  fourths  of  them  were 
volunteer  corps  raised  by  popular  and  patriotic  men  who 
turned  out  for  the  occasion  ^^ithout  wishing  or  expecting  any 
compensation.  There  were  however  amongst  them  some 
drafted  men  to  make  less  the  deficiency  of  the  former  call. 
Of  these  I  desired  the  Governor  to  form  two  companies  of  100 
men  each  for  the  garrison  of  Lower  Sandusky  and  I  ordered 
the  Garrison  of  that  place  amounting  to  125  to  proceed  to 
Cleveland.  As  they  were  taken  from  the  Militia  of  the  Con- 
necticut Reserve,  the  neighbourhood  of  that  place.  The  gov- 
ernor has  gone  on  in  person  to  Cleveland  and  will  complete 
this  detachment  to  two  companies  of  one  hundred  each — at 
least  he  will  endeavour  to  make  this  arrangement,  but  it  can- 
not be  done  without  the  consent  of  both  men  and  officers.  The 
law  of  this  State  makes  a  company  to  consist  of  72  non-com- 
missioned officers  and  privates.  The  men  have  the  privilege 
of  electing  their  ovni  officers  and  they  cannot  be  forced  to 
serve  in  any  other  way  than  their  own  laws  direct  until  they 
are  organised  under  one  passed  by  the  United  States.  I 
found  Gen.  Cass  with  Gov.  IMeigs.  He  had  ordered  in  a  full 
company  of  13  months  Recruits  from  Zanesville  and  a  part 
of  another  from  this  neighbourhood.  They  have  been  directed 
to  return  to  this  place. 

Gen.  McArthur  was  on  Hull's  Road  marching  in  the  direc- 
tion of  the  Rapids  with  about  300  men  and  will  probably  have 
proceeded  as  far  as  Fort  Findley  before  he  meets  the  messen- 
ger who  was  sent  with  order  for  his  return.  I  have  directed 
him  to  ascertain  the  situation  of  Fort  Winchester  and  rein- 
force the  Garrison.  From  the  Kentucky  newspapers  I  learn 
that  Colo.  [R.  M.]  Johnsons  Regt.  of  mounted  riflemen  were 
ordered  by  Gov.  Shelby  to  rendevous  at  Georgeto^vn  on  the 
20th  inst.  for  the  purjDose  of  marching  to  Fort  Meigs,  I  have 
dispatched  an  express  to  the  Colo,  desiring  him  to  dismiss  his' 


452  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

men.  The  citizens  of  Ohio  and  Kentucky  deserve  great  credit 
for  the  promptitude  of  their  exertions  upon  this  occasion.  But 
the  above  detail  of  the  loose  manner  in  which  they  were  pro- 
ceeding to  the  scene  of  action  sufficiently  indicates  what  would 
have  been  their  fate  had  they  attempted  to  force  a  passage  to 
Fort  Meigs  with  the  small  detachments  that  were  in  advance. 

By  a  gentleman  who  has  just  arrived  from  Lexington  I 
learn  that  the  24th  Regt.  left  that  place  on  Friday  last  and 
that  after  marching  a  few  miles  upon  the  Limestone  road, 
took  the  direction  of  Georgetown  and  Cincinnati.  I  have  had 
no  communication  whatever  with  Colo.  [William  P.]  Anderson 
and  I  am  not  acquainted  with  the  route  prescribed  to  him. 
As  Cleveland  will  soon  have  a  respectable  Militia  Corps  for 
its  protection  I  would  by  no  means  recommend  that  the  24th 
Regt.  proceed  thither. 

General  Cass  informed  me  that  it  is  one  of  the  most  sickly 
places  in  the  Western  Country ;  that  even  in  spring  the  in- 
habitants are  much  subject  to  intermittent  and  billions  fevers. 
I  should  certainly  prefer  the  route  by  the  two  Sanduskys  or 
that  of  St.  Marys  and  Fort  Winchester  for  all  the  troops  com- 
ing from  Kentucky  or  those  reunited  in  this  state  west  of  the 
Muskingum  River  and  south  of  the  dividing  ridge  between 
the  waters  of  Lake  Erie  and  those  of  the  Ohio.  The  Militia 
above  mentioned  and  such  of  the  Recruits  as  are  raised  in  the 
Connecticut  Reserve  and  East  of  the  Muskingum  would,  I 
should  suppose,  be  adequate  to  the  defence  of  Cleveland. 

I  hope  to  receive  your  particular  instructions.  I  am  far 
from  wishing  to  avoid  responsibility.  I  am  only  fearful  of 
counteracting  your  intentions  without  Imowing  them.  The 
recruiting  of  the  12  months  men  suffers  much  from  the  want 
of  Clothing.  Gen.  Cass  informs  me  that  he  has  not  heard 
that  any  has  been  sent  in. 

I  have  seen  and  conversed  with  several  of  the  Militia  who 
were  made  prisoners  on  the  north  side  of  the  Miami  on  the 
5th  inst.  They  state  the  loss  of  the  enemy  in  killed  and 
wounded  as  very  great.  One  of  them  who  was  wounded  him- 
self says  that  there  were  sixty  nine  of  the  enemys  woundt^d 
on  board  the  same  vessel  with  himself.  The  Indians  also  suf- 
fered very  severely  but  retaliated  upon  our  unfortunate  pris- 
oners. The  man  from  whom  I  received  the  information  states 
that  at  least  40  were  killed  after  they  were  prisoners  that  the 
British  in  vain  endeavoured  to  prevent  it  and  a  British  soldier 


HAURISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        .153 

was  shot  down  (a  centinel  I  believe)  in  endeavouring  to 
counteract  them  in  the  presence  of  the  British  officers.  Num- 
hcrs  of  the  Indians  left  their  allies  on  the  Evening  of  the  5th. 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  paper  presented  to  me  by 
all  the  field  officers  shortly  after  the  attack  upon  Fort  Meigs 
commenced  requesting  me  to  allow  the  men  an  additional  half 
ration ;  being  fully  convinced  that  they  could  not  undergo  the 
excessive  labour  required  of  them  unacquainted  as  they  were 
with  those  Economical  arrangements  which  enables  the  ex- 
perienced soldier  to  subsist  upon  his  allowence.  I  could  not 
hesitate  to  comply  with  the  recommendation  of  the  officers 
and  the  measure  will  I  hope  meet  your  approbation. 

In  the  course  of  last  winter  I  directed  Major  [Amos]  Stod- 
dard to  prepare  an  estimate  of  the  Ordnance,  ordnance  stores 
and  ammunition  which  would  be  wanted  for  the  ensuing  cam- 
paign. His  estimate  vv^as  made  out  and  forwarded  to  Capt. 
[Hezekiah]  Johnson  at  Pittsburgh  who  delivered  it  to  the  Dy. 
Commissary  of  Ordnance  there.  As  I  had  no  information  at 
that  time  of  the  determination  of  the  Government  to  obtain 
the  naval  superiority  on  Lake  Erie,  I  directed  the  cannon  (5- 
18  Pounders)  to  be  sent  early  in  the  spring  to  Cincinatti,  that 
it  might  be  taken  by  the  route  of  the  Miami  of  the  Ohio  and 
that  of  the  Lake  to  Fort  Meigs.  I  was  accidently  informed 
some  time  since  that  five  cannon  of  that  description  had  ar- 
rived at  New  port,  but  that  it  was  not  known  whether  they 
were  intended  for  the  North  Western  Army  or  to  descend  the 
Mississippi.  Three  days  ago  I  received  information  from  the 
Dy.  Commissary  of  Ordnance  [Abram  R.]  Woolley  that  they 
were  those  which  I  had  required.  The  season  of  navigating 
the  Miamis  has  now  passed  and  I  have  no  alternative  but  that 
of  bringing  them  up  the  Ohio  to  the  mouth  of  the  Scioto  and 
from  thence  by  land  to  Sandusky.  I  have  directed  the  Dy. 
Commissary  of  Ordnance  to  send  the  remaining  part  of  the 
Stores  required  to  such  point  on  the  lake  as  may  have  been 
selected  for  the  other  stores  v/hich  are  to  be  sent  from  Pitts- 
burgh. 

Major  [James  V.]  Balls  Squadron  is  now  here  the  horses 
suffered  considerably  during  the  seigo,  many  were  killed  and 
the  whole  so  reduced  that  it  was  with  difficulty  they  were 
gotten  in.  They  will  however  be  soon  and  cheaply  recruited 
in  the  rich  pastures  which  this  country  affords. 

Major  [Amos]  Stoddard's  death  will  make  it  necessary  that 


454  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

another  field  officer  of  Artillery  should  be  sent  on  to  this  Army. 
Indeed  a  few  experienced  subaltern  officers  of  that  Corps 
would  be  highly  desireable. 

A  Sergt.  [John]  Henderson  of  the  Petersburgh  Va.  Volun- 
teers had  charge  of  the  most  important  Battery  during  the 
siege  and  distinguished  himself  much.  That  corps  consists 
chiefly  of  young  Gentlemen  of  the  first  respectability  in  the 
State.  Mr.  Henderson  is  not  inferior  to  any  of  them  in  cor- 
rect and  gentlemanly  deportment.  He  would  accept  of  a  Sec- 
ond Lieutenancy  of  Artillery  and  would  I  am  pursuaded  do 
honor  to  the  appointment. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Sir  Your  Humble 
Servant. 

William  Henry  Harrison 

John  Armstorng  Esq.  Sect  of  War 

Harrison  to  B.  G.  Orr 
Head  Quarters,  Franklinton,  May  19,  1813 

Am.  Sta.  Pa. — Military  Affairs  I,  645 

Sir: 

You  will  be  pleased  to  provide  for  the  issuing  of  provisions 
at  such  places  within  the  settlements  as  Brigadier  Generals 
[Duncan]  M' Arthur  and  [Lewis]  Cass,  and  Major  [J.  C] 
Bartlett,  the  Deput  Quartermaster  General,  may  require.  I 
can  give  no  direction  with  regard  to  the  forwarding  of  provi- 
sions to  the  frontiers,  or  the  lakes ;  nor  information  as  to  the 
delivery  of  those  which  the  Government  have  accumulated 
there,  until  I  receive  further  information  from  the  Secretary 
of  War.  But  the  posts  of  Cleveland  and  Lower  Sandusky 
having  been  exclusively  furnished  by  the  late  contractor  (Mr. 
Porter)  it  will  be  necessary  that  you  make  immediate  arrange- 
ments for  issuing  at  both  these  places  by  the  1st  of  June.  Pro- 
vision should  be  made  at  Cleveland  for  at  least  eight  hundred 
daily  issues,  and  at  Lower  Sandusky  for  four  hundred. 

I  am,  respectfully,  your  humble  servant, 

William  Henry  Harrison 
Benjamin  G.  Orr,  Contractor 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        455 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  58) 

Head  Quarters  Franklinton  19th  May  1813 

Ha/r.  Pa.  ^8-52 

Sir: 

The  circumstances  which  occasioned  the  suspicions  against 
Capt.  [Joseph]  Wheaton  and  which  I  learned  from  Capt. 
[John  H.]  Piatt  Dy.  Qr.  M.  Genl.  are  as  follows.  He  was  sent 
from  Pittsburgh  with  some  cannons  in  Waggons,  a  number  of 
Cannon  Carriages  and  some  waggons  with  stores  and  ammuni- 
tion in  the  whole  about  70  teams.  His  route  lay  through  New 
Lisbon  in  this  state,  Canton,  Wooster  and  Mansfield  to  Upper 
Sandusky  and  he  was  furnished  by  the  Quarter  Master  with 
7500  Dollars  for  forage  and  other  incidental  expenses.  Upon 
his  arrival  at  Canton  he  drew  upon  the  Secretary  of  War  for 
a  considerable  sum,  if  I  recollect  right  2500  or  3500  Dollars 
— at  Wooster  80  miles  from  Canton  he  sent  an  Express  to 
Capt.  Piatt  requesting  a  supply  of  3000  Dollars,  which  was 
sent  to  him  at  Wooster  he  was  also  furnished  with  about  1000 
bushels  of  grain,  deposited  there  by  Capt.  Piatt  At  Mansfield 
30  miles  from  Wooster  he  again  sent  to  Capt.  Piatt  for  2  or 
3000  Dollars  which  was  by  my  order  refused.  But  he  re- 
ceived there  600  bushels  of  grain  from  Capt.  Piatt's  Agent. 
From  Wooster  to  Mansfield  there  are  no  settlements  from 
thence  to  Sandusky  a  distance  of  45  miles,  there  is  not  a  house. 
Capt.  Wheaton  reached  the  latter  place  early  in  Jany  and  in 
a  few  days  after  the  cannon  and  waggons  arrived.  The 
Horses  so  worn  down  the  greater  part  of  them  drawing  empty 
carriages,  that  they  could  scarcely  be  gotten  into  the  settle- 
ment. In  a  short  time  after  his  arrival  Capt.  Piatt  informed 
me  that  he  w^as  convinced  that  Capt.  Wheaton  could  not  have 
expended  in  the  public  Service  all  the  money  he  had  received. 
That  he  appeard  to  wish  to  get  as  much  as  possible  in  his 
hands  and  that  he  believed  that  Wheaton  had  a  large  sum  in  a 
small  trunk  in  his  possession.  I  was  so  fully  impressed  with  the 
probability  of  this  being  the  case  that  I  had  at  one  time  de- 
termined to  seize  the  trunk  and  have  it  examined.  Wheaton 
afterwards  made  an  attempt,  in  settling  with  the  Team  driv- 
ers, to  get  from  them  a  voucher  which  would  have  been  passed 
to  his  credit  in  the  War  office,  and  give  them  his  own  private 
due  bills  for  the  amount ;  this  was  however  prevented  by  Capt. 


456  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Piatt  and  I  believe  that  the  Waggoners  were  sent  back  to 
Pittsburg  without  tlieir  pay.  There  is  no  necessity  for  my 
saying  any  thing  to  Gov.  Meigs  to  develope  Wheatons  char- 
acter. The  latter  was  sent  from  this  place  by  Major  [John 
C]  Bartlett  as  Quarter  Master  for  the  Troops  which  the  Gov. 
was  taking  on  to  the  Rapids  when  I  met  them  at  Lower  San- 
dusky the  Gov.  informed  me  that  he  had  never  seen  a  man 
so  entirely  worthless  and  unfit  for  any  kind  of  duty  and  that 
he  was  laughed  at  and  scorned  by  all  the  detachment.  Such 
indeed  is  his  character.  I  regret  the  necessity  of  speaking  in 
this  way  of  a  man  who  never  did  me  an  injury  and  employed 
more  of  his  thoughts  and  time  in  endeavours  to  conciliate  and 
gain  my  confidence  than  he  does  in  the  discharge  of  the  duties 
of  his  appointment. 

In  the  beginning  of  March  I  sufl^ered  Doctor  [Garret  E.] 
Pendergrast  to  leave  the  army  on  Furlough  for  six  or  eight 
weeks  upon  his  informing  me  that  he  would  incur  a  great  loss 
of  property  if  he  were  not  permitted  to  go  to  Philadelphia. 
He  pledged  himself  to  return  as  there  was  no  surgeon  belong- 
ing to  the  Regular  Troops  I  selected  Doctor  [Hugh]  Stannard 
the  Senior  Surgeon  of  the  Virginia  Brigade  of  Militia  to  take 
charge  of  the  Hospital  Stores  and  superintend  the  Hospital 
until  the  return  of  Doctor  Pendergrass.  Since  the  discharge 
of  his  Brigade  I  have  continued  him,  because  there  was  no 
other  in  service  within  my  reach  that  could  be  trusted  with 
the  important  duties  that  he  performs.  The  Surgeon  of  the 
19th  Regi;.  has  been  represented  to  me,  by  several  Medical 
and  other  respectable  characters  upon  whom  I  can  rely,  as  be- 
ing a  perfect  quack,  alike  destitute  of  Talents,  medical  expe- 
rience and  education.  This  will  surprise  you  when  you  re- 
collect that  he  was  recommended  by  the  members  of  the  Sen- 
ate of  this  State.  He  wrote  a  recommendation,  procured  the 
signatures  of  several  members  and  the  rest  signed  it  because 
others  had  done  it.  They  now,  I  am  told,  express  wonder  at 
his  having  been  appointed.  Doctor  Stannard  will  continue  to 
act  until  another  is  sent  out.  He  would,  I  believe  gladly  ac- 
cept a  prominent  appointment,  I  know  that  he  stands  very 
high  in  the  estimation  of  Gov.  Barbour  of  Virginia. 

Mr.  B.  G.  Orr  met  me  at  this  place  and  showed  me  a  copy 
of  a  contract  he  has  made  for  supplying  the  Troops  under 
my  command.     Is  it  intended  that  the  provisions  belonging  to 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        457 

the  United  States  should  be  delivered  to  him?  I  think  the 
public  would  gain  by  turning  it  all  over  to  him  with  an  allow- 
ance of  I2V2  per  cent  for  issuing. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  your 
Obt.  Humble  Servant., 

William  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble  John  Armstrong,  Esq,  Sect,  of  War 

P.  S.  The  christian  name  of  Sergt.  Henderson  wliom  I  had 
the  honor  to  recommend  to  you  for  an  appointment  is  John. 

General  Orders 

Adjutant  General's  Office,  Head-Quarters,  Kingston, 

May  21,  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  272 

The  commanding  general  has  great  satisfaction  in  announc- 
ing to  the  troops  the  brilliant  result  of  an  action  which  took 
place  on  the  banks  of  the  ]\Iiami  river  on  the  5th  inst.  with 
part  of  the  North  Western  Army  of  the  United  States,  under 
major-general  Harrison,  and  which  terminated  in  the  com- 
plete defeat  of  the  enemy,  and  capture,  dispersion  or  destruc- 
tion of  thirteen  hundred  men,  by  the  gallant  division  of  the 
army  under  the  command  of  the  brigadier  general  [Henry] 
Proctor.  Five  hundred  prisoners  were  taken,  exclusive  of 
those  who  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  Indians,  and  whose  num- 
ber could  not  be  ascertained. 

Brigader-general  Proctor  praises  the  gallant  conduct  of 
those  under  his  command,  and  refers  to  official  despatches  not 
yet  received.  The  enemy's  loss  was  very  severe ;  while  that  of 
the  British  amounted  only  to  14  rank  and  file  killed — 1  sub- 
altern, 4  Serjeants,  and  37  rank  and  file  wounded.  Of  the 
militia,  1  captain  killed  4  rank  and  file  wounded. 

Edward  Baynes,  Adj.  Gen.  [Briiish  Army'] 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Departi^ient  May  21st  1813 

Har.  Pa.  72,  73 

Sir: 

The  letters  you  did  me  the  honor  to  write  to  me  on  the  5th, 
9th  and  13th  [see  above]  instant  have  been  received  and  sub- 

82—22664 


458  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

mitted  to  the  President,  who  has  been  pleased  to  direct  that 
I  should  communicate  to  j^ou,  and  through  you  to  the  Troops 
composing  the  garrison  of  fort  Meigs,  his  thanks  for  the  valor 
and  patriotism  displayed  in  the  defence  of  that  place,  and 
particularly  by  the  Corps  employed  in  the  Sorties  made  on  the 
5th  instant. 

Your  future  requisitions  for  ordnance  stores  will  be  gov- 
erned by  the  quantity  on  hand  at  Fort  Meigs  and  Franklinton 
and  the  number  and  calibre  of  the  pieces  you  propose  to  take 
with  you  against  Maiden.  Your  whole  train,  if  I  am  well  in- 
formed, amounts  to  thirty  five  pieces  of  which  nine  are  eigh- 
teen pounders. 

The  24th  Regiment  was  on  the  10th  instant  at  Lexington 
(Ky.)  on  their  way  to  Cleveland.  You  will  give  it  any  other 
point  of  rendezvous  you  may  think  proper  and  adopt  such 
means  to  assemble  the  other  parts  of  your  Division,  as  will 
be  most  advisable.  On  this  head  I  would  but  suggest  that 
the  arrangement  which  shall  best  mask  your  real  design  and 
most  impress  the  enemy  with  a  belief  that  your  march  to 
Maiden  will  be  by  land  will  be  the  best. 

Clothing  for  the  26th,  27th,  and  28th  Regiments  has  been 
forwarded  from  Philadelphia. 

The  last  accounts  of  the  Boats  preparing  by  Major  [Thom- 
as S.]  Jessup  were  favorable.  That  officer  will  necessarily 
report  to  you  and  take  your  orders. 

General  Proctor's  proposition  concerning  the  Indians  within 
our  Limits,  was  artful  and  perhaps  but  meant  to  excite  suspi- 
cions of  them  on  our  part,  while  it  held  out  to  the  Indian  the 
paternal  regards  of  H.  B.  Majesty. 

Major  Genl.  Harrison 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  59) 


Head  Quarters,  Cincinnatti  23rd  May,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  53-56 

Sir: 

Upon  my  arrival  here  yesterday  evening,  I  was  informed 
that  Col.  [R.  M.]  Johnson  had  arrived  at  New  Port  a  few 
hours  before  with  his  Regiment  of  mounted  Infantry.  He 
called  on  me  this  morning  and  delivered  the  letter  of  which 
the  enclosed  is  a  copy,     [see  following]     He  further  stated  to 


h'AKKISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        459 

^v,^  iU:\t  ^\}H•n  lie  met  with  the  person  bearing  my  order  for 
?<!f7uriK  ''-'i^'^^  ^^^^-  Troops  which  had  been  embodied  for  the 
iilirf  of  Fort  Meigs  he  had  consulted  the  officers  upon  the 
j.ri»i)n'('ly  of  dismissing  their  men  and  it  was  their  unanimous 
(ipiiiion  that  if  they  were  now  disappointed  in  their  expecta- 
fion  of  engaging  in  actual  sei*vice  they  could  never  again  be 
)))oug)it  into  the  field.  This  consideration  together  with  the 
letter  the  Col.  had  received  from  you  informing  him  that  I 
)iad  been  authorized  to  employ  the  Regiment  for  the  protec- 
tion of  the  Frontiers  induced  him  to  determine  to  come  on 
until  they  received  further  directions  from  me. 

Being  as  yet  uninformed  as  to  the  situation  of  affairs  on  the 
Illinois,  Wabash  and  Mississippi,  I  could  not  determine  upon 
the  propriety  of  sending  these  Troops  there  immediately.  But 
under  the  circumstances  I  am  pursuaded  that  a  demonstra- 
tion in  the  direction  of  Fort  Wayne,  by  such  a  body  of  mounted 
men  would  be  attended  with  very  happy  effects.  I  am  not 
entirely  at  ease  on  the  subject  of  the  garrisons  in  that  direc- 
tion. The  enemy,  if  they  understand  their  business  (wanting 
provisions  as  they  do)  will  certainly  make  an  attempt  to  carry 
some  of  our  weak  posts  where  we  have  large  deposits.  Col. 
Johnson's  Corps  will  make  all  safe  in  that  quarter.  Should 
it  be  determined  to  send  them  to  the  Territories  the  route 
down  the  Wabash  from  Fort  Wayne  would  be  quite  as  eligible 
as  any  other  and  by  a  little  inclination  to  the  north  they  might 
strike  some  of  the  Indian  Villages  on  the  St.  Joseph,  or  the 
heads  of  the  Illinois. 

I  shall  order  them  therefore  to  Fort  Winchester  in  the  first 
instance  from  thence  they  can  go  to  either  of  the  Territories, 
make  a  Coup  De  Main  on  some  of  the  Villages  in  the  Vicinity 
of  Chicago  or  some  short  time  hence  in  conjunction  with  the 
squadron  of  dragoons  an  attack  upon  Detroit  or  Brownstown 
by  a  very  favourable  route  leading  from  Fort  Wayne  across 
the  head  Waters  of  the  River  Raison.  I  have  always  been 
partial  to  the  assembling  a  body  of  Troops  in  the  Vicinity  of 
Fort  Wayne.  It  is  in  the  immediate  line  of  communication 
between  the  Indians  of  the  Wabash,  Illinois,  Mississippi  and 
the  South  and  West  sides  of  Lake  Michigan  and  Maiden. 

Col.  [William  P.]  Anderson  with  the  part  of  his  Regiment 
which  was  at  Massac  has  arrived  here.  The  Col.  has  just 
waited  on  me  and   shewed  me  his  orders   which  were  to 


460  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

proccced  to  Cleveland.  Being  at  this  place  there  is  no  more 
eligible  route  even  to  Cleveland  than  that  by  the  way  of 
Franklinton  and  Upper  Sandusky.  But  I  should  suppose  that 
it  is  no  longer  desirable  that  he  should  go  to  Cleveland.  I 
fear  before  he  could  reach  that  point  that  the  vessels  may  be 
on  the  way  up  the  lake  to  receive  the  Troops. 

I  shall  leave  this  in  a  few  days  for  Franklinton  and  com- 
mence the  assembling  the  Troops  as  soon  as  I  receive  your  or- 
ders. 

I  have  heard  indirectly  that  the  recruiting  of  the  12  months 
men  goes  on  briskly  in  Kentucky.  But  I  have  received  no 
Report.  Indeed  I  Imow  from  common  fame  only  who  has  been 
appointed  the  Col.  of  the  Regt.  to  be  raised  there. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with 
great  respect,  Sir,  Your  Obt.  Hbl  Servant 

William  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War 


R.  M.  Johnson  to  Harrison 

Cincinnatti,  23rd  May,  1813 

Ha/r.  Pa.  57,  58 

Sir: 

The  attack  upon  Fort  Meigs,  the  small  force  which  you  were 
known  to  have  to  defend  that  important  post,  the  danger  of 
the  intermediate  Posts  on  the  left  wing  of  the  army  under 
your  command  and  other  considerations  equally  important  and 
impressive  induced  me  to  anticipate  the  v/ishes  of  the  Presi- 
dent and  Secretary  of  war  in  marching  the  Regt.  of  ]\Iounted 
Volunteers  to  your  command  with  every  practicable  dispatch. 
You  are  aware  that  the  Gov.  of  the  state  of  Kentucky  had  also 
recommended  the  measure. 

After  having  fixed  the  day  of  Rendezvous  I  was  happy  to 
receive  a  letter  from  the  Secretary  of  war  in  which  he  inti- 
mated that  you  were  authorized  to  call  the  Regt.  in  executing 
the  plan  of  a  Campaign  which  you  had  reported  to  the  Sec- 
retary, and  stating  positively  taht  you  were  authorised  to  use 
the  Regt.  for  the  defence  of  the  Territorial  Frontiers.  Under 
this  view  of  the  subject,  I  considered  it  my  indispensible  duty 
to  march  the  Regt.  to  the  Ohio  River  and  prepare  for  actual 
service. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        461 

I  am  well  convinced  that  if  the  Regt.  should  now  be  dis- 
missed, it  cannot  easilj^  be  collected,  for  reasons  obvious  and 
not  necessary  to  be  enumerated.  My  desire  to  continue  in  the 
so'vice  with  the  Regt.  does  not  arise  more  from  the  great  anx- 
iety of  officer  and  men  to  serve  their  country,  than  from  what 
I  consider  the  real  advantage  which  will  result  from  that 
service.  I  am  now  anxiously  waiting  to  know  what  is  your 
determination  and  whether  you  consider  the  service  of  the 
Reg-t.  at  this  time  important  and  necessary,  if  so,  to  receive 
your  orders  upon  that  ground  and  I  wish  your  decision,  as  I 
am  convinced  that  what  ever  course  you  may  pursue,  it  will 
meet  the  entire  approbation  of  the  President  of  the  U.  States 
and  Secretary  of  War. 

With  sentiments  of  great 
respect  and  esteem  your  Obt.  Servt 
(Signed)     R.  M.  Johnson 
General  W.  H.  Harrison 

Dr.  Samuel  M'Keehan's  Narrative 

May  24,  1813 

Niks'  Register  IV,  2U 

On  the  31st  of  January  last,  I  was  ordered  by  general  Har- 
rison to  proceed  to  the  river  Raisin,  with  a  flag  of  truce,  and 
from  thence  to  Maiden,  if  not  stopped  by  the  Indians.  We  ar- 
rived at  the  foot  of  the  rapids  of  the  Miami  at  dark,  and  not 
finding  a  company  of  rangers  as  expected,  we  encamped  in  a 
cave  [?],  the  horse  and  cariole  before  the  door,  and  a  flag 
standing  by  them.  About  mid-night  the  Indians  fired  in  upon 
us,  killed  Mr.  Lemont,  wounded  myself  in  the  foot,  and  made 
us  prisoners.  After  dispatching  JNIr.  Lemont  with  the  toma- 
hawk, scalping  and  stripping  him,  they  seized  my  horse,  har- 
ness, great  coat,  blankets  and  other  cloathing,  and  one  hun- 
dred dollars  in  gold,  which  the  general  had  sent  to  procure 
necessaries  for  the  wounded  of  general  Winchester's  army. 

That  night  I  was  made  to  walk  more  than  twenty  miles  to 
where  captain  Elliott  was  stationed  with  a  party  of  Indians. 
The  Captain  treated  me  politely,  and  sent  me  to  colonel  Proc- 
tor. I  was  scarcely  seated  before  the  colonel  began  to  abuse 
general  Harrison,  said  he  had  been  used  to  fight  with  Indians, 
and  not  British;  found  fault  with  my  instructions,  and  said 


462  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

the  flag  was  only  a  pretext  to  cover  a  bad  design.  I  rebutted 
his  insinuations  with  indignation,  which  I  believe  was  the 
cause  of  all  my  troubles,  since  I  was  not  received  in  my  official 
character  until  the  5th  of  February,  when  I  was  informed  by 
Proctor's  aid,  that  I  should  attend  the  wounded  with  Dr. 
Bower,  and  that  I  should  be  sent  to  the  United  States,  but  by 
a  different  route  from  that  by  which  I  came.  Dr.  Bower  in  a 
few  days  was  sent  home  and  I  detained. 

On  the  2d  of  March  I  was  arrested  by  order  of  colonel  Proc- 
tor, and  accused  of  carrying  on  a  private  correspondence.  On 
the  8th,  without  having  any  trial,  I  was  ordered  to  Montreal, 
and  hurried  on  from  Fort  George  night  and  day,  although 
thinly  clothed  and  the  weather  very  cold.  From  Kingston  to 
Prescott,  I  was  made  to  eat  with  the  officer's  servants !  This 
course  of  torture  being  finished  on  the  28th,  when  I  arrived 
at  Montreal,  and  without  being  asked  any  questions,  or  being 
suffered  to  ask  any  myself,  I  was  put  into  a  dungeon,  eight 
or  ten  feet  below  the  surface  of  the  ground,  where  I  had 
neither  bed  or  bedding,  chair,  bench  or  stool — denied  pen,  ink, 
paper;  or  even  the  use  of  a  book,  for  two  weeks.  The  only 
fresh  current  of  air  that  passed  through  my  apartment  came 
through  the  bowels  of  the  privy!  Here  I  was  kept  thirty- 
three  days,  when  I  was  to  my  great  joy,  put  up  with  the  Amer- 
ican prisoners,  and  with  them  permitted  to  remain  till  last 
Monday,  when  I  was  liberated  by  the  intercession  of  lieu- 
tenant Dudley,  of  the  navy.  Colonel  Bajaies  aid  to  the  gov- 
ernor told  me  that  the  outrage  which  had  been  committed  on 
my  person  was  contrary  to  his  orders. 

I  left  fourteen  American  prisoners  in  jail,  who  were  kept 
in  close  confinement,  notwithstanding  colonel  Lethbridge  and 
major  Shackelford  had  pledged  their  words  to  captain  Con- 
key,  before  he  left  Montreal  for  Quebec,  that  they  should  have 
the  liberty  of  the  to\\ai  during  the  day.  But  the  captain  was 
scarcely  gone,  when  the  pledge  was  either  forgotten  or  dis- 
regarded. The  prisoners  now  are  not  permitted  to  procure 
such  necessaries  as  their  small  stock  of  money  would  provide. 
Sometimes  they  are  half  a  day  without  water,  and  two  or  three 
days  without  wood,  and  if  they  complain,  they  are  cursed  and 
abused  by  the  jailor,  and  told  they  are  only  allowed  a  quart 
of  water  in  the  day.  I  am  requested  to  represent  their  situa- 
tion to  gen.  Dearborn,  which  I  intend  to  do  as  soon  as  I  arrive 
at  Sackett's  Harbor. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        463 

This  is  a  sketch  of  the  indignities  I  have  had  to  put  up  with 
since  the  last  of  January. 

I  am  yours,  &c. 

Samuel  M'Keehan 


John  Wingate  to  Harrison 

St.  Mary's,  May  28th,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  59-61 

Sir: 

The  copious  fall  of  rain  has  given  an  opportunity  of  send- 
ing on  all  the  company  stores  at  this  place,  and  the  principal 
part  at  Amanda.  18  flat  boats  started  from  this  post  last  eve- 
ning well  loaded  and  there  are  28  boats  at  Amanda  but  have 
not  men  to  mann  all  of  them,  every  man  able  to  do  duty  at 
this  post  descended  the  St.  Mary's  with  boats  from  here.  I 
have  ordered  all  from  Amanda  but  a  Sergeant,  Corpl.  and  12 
men,  and  have  ordered  Ensign  [James]  Gray  from  Ft.  Lori- 
mies  with  17  recruits  to  Ft.  Amanda  to  descend  with  boats 
to  the  rapids ;  it  appears  I  cannot  raise  as  many  men  as  will 
mann  all  the  boats  at  Amanda.  Col.  [B.  G.]  Orr  used  every 
exertion  to  procure  some  assistance  from  the  Indians,  but 
could  not  prevail  upon  them  to  send  one  man,  there  is  some- 
thing new  amongst  them.  They  find  a  thousand  faults,  they 
say  there  is  but  few  of  them  and  we  wish  to  have  them  cut 
off  by  placcing  them  in  the  front  of  battles  and  other  dangerous 
places,  and  that  they  receive  no  pay  for  their  services,  they 
also  say  that  the  British  Indians,  (those  that  were  prisoners) 
had  told  them  they  had  taken  a  number  of  towns  and  that 
their  forces  would  soon  meet  tliose  in  tlie  north  and  take  their 
whole  country,  which  appears  to  have  staggered  their  faith 
&  Col.  Orr  and  others  have  attempted  to  explain  away  those 
impressions  but  without  success.  They  are  still  under  the 
idea  that  the  Americans  are  trying  to  deceive  them  and  that 
they  stand  in  a  very  critical  situation,  and  appeared  to  be  at 
a  stand  how  to  act. 

The  Boats  at  Amanda  will  not  start  for  3  days  as  the  water 
is  now  too  high  and  rising,  we  will  start  as  many  as  possible, 
all  if  we  can.  1  have  directed  them  to  make  a  stand  at  Fort 
Winchester  and  send  two  or  three  of  the  men  to  Fort  Meigs 
and  ascertain  whether  it  be  safe  to  proceed  to  the  Rapids  and 


464  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

if  not  safe  to  ask  assistance  &  Further  orders  from  Gen.  Mc- 
Arthur  who  I  understand  commands  at  Ft.  Meigs. 

I  expect  a  small  rifle  company  from  the  5th  division  to  be 
here  this  evening  or  tomorrow,  one  half  at  least,  ought  to  be 
stationed  at  Lorimies;  you  will  see  the  necessity  of  more  men 
being  ordered  on  to  this  place. 

Capt.  [Hugh]  Moore  complains  of  not  being  reinforced  at 
Ft.  Wayne  the  Company  I  expected  here  this  evening  are  very 
anxious  about  some  money.  I  promised  them  a  month's  pay 
before  they  agreed  to  come  on.  I  think  a  line  from  Your  Ex- 
cellency to  the  District  paymaster  would  be  of  service  for  if 
they  should  disperse  we  shall  be  left  in  an  unpleasant  situa- 
tion on  this  line.  I  have  written  Mr.  [Jesse]  Hunt  on  the 
subject  &c. 

A  few  minutes  ago  Black  Fish  an  Indian  came  in,  he  states 
that  one  of  Blue  Jackets  sons  was  at  Wogioockhana,  a  few 
days  ago  this  fellow  fought  against  you  at  Fort  Meigs,  this 
will  explain  the  former  part  of  my  letter. 

I  have  just  learned  but  15  Boats  will  start  from  Amanda 
and  that  they  will  set  out  about  10  o'clock  tomorrow.  There 
ought  to  have  set  out  28  but  there  are  no  men  to  take  them. 

There  is  yet  then,  a  very  considerable  quantity  of  provision 
&c. 

Your  Excellency  will  at  once  see  the  necestity  of  sending 
more  troops  on  this  line. 

I  am  Yours  &c  with  High  Esteem 

John  Wingate,  Br.  GL  3rd  Detachment  O.  M. 
His  Excellency  Genl.  Harrison 
A  true  copy  Wm.  Winchester,  Lt.    Aid  de  Camp 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  May  31,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  7A,  75 

Sir: 

Your  letter  of  the  19th  instant  has  been  received,  [see 
above] 

Arrangements  will  be  made  for  increasing  the  medical  staff 
of  your  command. 

Herewith  inclosed  you  will  receive  a  copy  of  the  contract 
for  supplying  the  froops  in  the  State  of  Ohio.     You  are  au- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        465 

thorized  to  fill  up  the  blank  attached  to  the  copy  and  to  ap- 
point agents  to  deliver  over  to  Messrs.  [B.  G.]  Orr  and 
[Aaron]  Greely  such  provisions  now  in  deposit  as  you  may 
deem  proper  to  issue  according  to  the  agreement,  taking  their 
duplicate  receipts  for  the  same,  one  of  which  must  be  trans- 
mitted to  the  accountant  of  this  Department  and  one  to  the 
Superintendent  General  of  Militaiy  Supplies  that  Orr  and 
Greely  may  be  held  accountable  for  the  provisions  so  received. 

Major  Genl.  Harrison 

General  Orders 

Chillicothe,  June  5,  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  271 

The  unaccountable  delay  which  has  taken  place  in  the  march- 
ing of  some  of  the  detachments  of  troops  destined  for  the 
North  Western  Army,  makes  it  necessary  that  some  effectual 
remedy  be  provided  for  an  evil  which  is  pregnant  with  the 
most  fatal  consequences. 

The  general,  therefore,  directs  that  every  officer  when  or- 
dered to  march  with  a  detachment  of  troops,  shall,  upon  re- 
ceiving the  orders,  commence  a  journal  in  which  he  shall  in- 
sert the  date  of  his  having  received  the  order,  and  every  cir- 
cumstance which  tends  to  procrastinate  his  march,  or  delay 
it  after  it  shall  have  commenced  until  his  arrival  at  the  point 
of  destination.  In  all  cases  where  the  orders  may  have  been 
received  from  the  general,  or  where  detachments  are  destined 
for  the  head-quarters  of  the  army,  or  any  post  upon  the  fron- 
tiers, a  copy  of  the  journal  so  kept  and  certified  on  honor  by 
the  commanding  officer,  will  be  forthwith  forwarded  to  the 
adjutant  general's  office.  In  all  other  cases  the  copy  of  the 
journals  will  be  sent  to  the  oflicer  ordering  the  march. 

By  order, 

Robert  Butler,  Cai-).  24th  Inf.  Assist,  Adj.  General 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  61) 

Head  Quarters  Franklinton  8th  June,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  62-66 

Sir: 

I  met  here  a  soldier  of  the  19th  Reg-t.  who  had  been  taken 


466  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

from  Camp  Meigs  in  March  last  by  the  Indians,  ransomed  by 
some  of  our  citizens  at  Detroit  and  landed  with  about  50  of 
the  Kentucky  Militia  at  Huron  on  the  19th  Ultimo.  This  man 
confirms  the  account  of  the  dispursion  of  the  Indians  and  he 
says  that  he  was  repeatedly  informed  that  they  went  off  in 
high  disgust  against  the  British,  many  of  them  declaring 
that  they  would  never  again  make  war  upon  the  United  States. 
The  reason  assigned  for  their  disatisfaction  was  the  failure 
of  the  attempt  upon  Fort  I\Ieigs.  The  British  had  promised 
to  put  them  in  possession  of  all  the  Country  between  the  Ohio 
and  the  Lake.  The  provisions  which  they  expected  to  take  at 
Fort  I\reigs  was  to  afford  them  the  means  of  further  opera- 
tions. Many  of  them  observed  that  they  were  now  convinced 
that  the  British  were  unable  to  perform  their  promise  as  they 
had  been  repulsed  from  Fort  Meigs. 

I  have  no  doubt  of  the  correctness  of  this  information.  But 
I  should  deeply  regret  to  having  any  effect  to  retard  our 
operations  or  lessen  the  force  which  it  was  contemplated  to 
employ.  The  declarations  of  an  Indian  and  even  his  feelings 
today  give  no  security  for  his  conduct  on  tomorrow — nor 
ought  any  calculations  to  be  drawn  from  the  destruction  of 
their  destined  presents  at  York.  A  substitute  can  easily  be 
found  in  the  large  stock  of  goods  which  are  in  the  possession 
of  private  Traders.  The  British  agents  are  well  acquainted 
with  the  Indian  Character.  Long  experience  has  put  them  in 
possession  of  all  the  means  by  which  their  confidence  is  to  be 
obtained  or  their  passions  stimulated.  The  communication 
from  Gov.  [Ninian]  Edwards  to  Gov.  [Isaac]  Shelby  and 
which  I  have  seen  published  in  the  Kentucky  papers  shows  the 
correctness  of  the  opinion  which  you  long  since  formed.  That 
as  long  as  they  had  Maiden  to  protect  or  my  Army  to  destroy 
they  would  never  think  of  any  other  than  a  desultory  war 
upon  our  Western  Settlements.  All  the  Indians  that  they  can 
possibly  raise  from  the  country  between  the  Lakes  and  Mis- 
sissippi will  certainly  be  brought  down  to  Maiden. 

It  appears  to  me  that  a  collateral  expedition  of  (to  the  one 
across  the  Lakes)  mounted  men  directed  immediately  against 
Detroit  or  wherever  the  Indians  might  be  found  would  be 
highly  useful.  It  could  be  accomplished  with  little  expense. 
Col.  [R.  ]\I.]  Johnson's  Regt.  and  the  Dragoons  under  Lt.  Col. 
[Jas.  v.]  Ball  might  be  encreased  by  Volunteers  from  Ken- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        467 

tucky  and  this  state  who  would  serve  for  30  or  40  days  with- 
out pay  to  a  most  formidable  body. 

Will  you  be  pleased  to  inform  me  whether  such  an  expedi- 
tion will  be  permitted  by  the  Government.  The  Volunteers  I 
speak  of  will  not  be  Militia  but  associations  of  Individuals 
who  will  select  their  own  officers  and  which  in  this  country 
will  bring  out  the  best  men  in  it,  generally  those  who  are  no 
longer  on  the  Llilitia  rolls — at  least  four  fifths  of  the  officers 
will  be  of  that  description. 

I  did  myself  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  Capt.  [Nathaniel] 
Adams  had  declined  the  appointment  of  Asst.  Adjt.  Genl.  As 
there  was  a  necessity  of  having  an  officer  of  that  department 
with  me  I  have  appointed  Capt.  Robt.  Butler  of  the  24th  Regt. 
to  do  the  duty.  He  is  well  qualified  for  it  and  I  should  be 
extremely  gratified  if  he  could  get  the  appointment  perma- 
nentlj^  Indeed  he  has  some  claim  to  it  having  been  appointed 
by  the  President  early  last  Winter  Asst.  Dy.  Adjt.  Genl.  He 
did  not  however  receive  any  notification  of  his  appointment. 
It  was  made  in  the  first  instance  by  me  upon  the  recommenda- 
tion of  Genl.  Winchester.  The  misfortune  to  that  Gentleman 
and  the  disbanding  of  the  greater  part  of  his  army  rendered 
this  employment  in  the  Staft'  unnecessary  until  the  law  was 
repealed  under  which  he  was  appointed. 

I  must  beg  leave  also  to  recommend  that  Major  [John  C.] 
Bartlett  be  promoted  to  the  rank  of  Quarter  Master  Genl.  The 
laborious  duties  of  that  department  require  a  higher  compen- 
sation than  he  receives  and  as  to  his  abilities  to  discharge 
them  I  should  not  hesitate  to  prefer  him  to  any  other.  Mr. 
[James]  Brown  of  Orleans  and  Mr.  [Henry]  Clay  of  Kenty, 
are  both  intimately  acquainted  with  him. 

The  24th  Regt.  arrived  here  last  Evening.  It  is  much  re- 
duced by  sickness,  the  reports  this  morning  make  only  314 
rank  and  file  present  fit  for  duty. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect 
Sir  Your  Humble  Servt. 

William  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War, 


468  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  Juno  9th,  1S13 

Har.  Pa.  70 

Sir: 

General  [Benjamin]  Howard  and  Governor  [Ninian]  Ed- 
wards urge  the  necessity  of  more  troops  in  that  quarter  and 
there  being  no  other  disposable  force  for  that  purpose  at  this 
time,  the  President  directs  that  you  order  Colonel  [R.  ^L] 
Johnson  with  his  Regiment  of  mounted  Volunteers  directly  to 
Kaskaskias  to  report  to  General  Howard. 

Jilajor  General  Harrison 

Harrison  to  R.  M.  Johnson 
Head  Quarters  Franklinton  11th  June,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  67-7^ 

Dear  Sir  : 

Your  letters  of  the  4th  and  5th  Inst,  were  received  yesterday 
I  inclose  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  which  came  to  hand  last  eve- 
ning giving  an  account  of  the  glorious  success  of  our  army  on 
Lake  Ontario  and  of  the  departure  of  the  forces  which  de- 
fended INIalden  to  the  assistance  of  their  defeated  brethren 
below.  Never  was  a  more  glorious  opportunity  offered  to 
make  a  brilliant  stroke  in  the  direction  of  j\Ialden  as  it  is  as- 
certained from  the  accounts  brought  by  all  the  Kentucky  pris- 
oners that  its  Indian  defenders  had  dispersed  immediately 
after  returning  from  the  seige  of  Fort  Meigs.  Unfortunately 
my  Infantry  is  not  in  a  situation  to  make  a  movement  whicli 
is  calculated  to  hold  the  ground  that  we  should  occupy. 

Nothing  therefore  can  be  done  but  by  way  of  Coiip  De  Main. 
Your  situation  is  eminently  calculated  to  make  one  against 
BrowTistown  or  any  other  point  in  the  neighbourhood  of  it 
which  from  the  information  you  may  receive  you  may  think 
yourself  able  to  attack  with  success. 

I  send  the  bearer  to  you.  i\Ir.  LIcClusky  [Col.  James  ^Ic- 
Closky]  who  is  well  acquainted  \\ith  the  Countries  around 
Detroit  and  who  will  bo  able  to  give  you  every  necessary  in- 
formation with  respect  to  its  Topography. 

In  making  the  attempt  above  suggested  it  is  impossible  that 
I  can  give  you  any  other  than  general  instructions  for  the 
Government  of  your  conduct.     Your  course  in  other  respects 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        469 

must  be  governed  bj-  Circumstances  as  they  arise  arjd  the  in- 
formation you  may  receive.  Should  you  have  obtained  intelli- 
gence to  induce  you  to  believe  that  the  enemy  are  still  in  con- 
siderable force  at  or  near  INIalden  the  expedition  must  be 
given  up.  But  if  no  information  has  been  received  by  you  to 
contradict  the  opinion  entertained  of  the  dispersion  of  the  In- 
dians and  the  departure  of  the  British  Troops  for  the  Lower 
part  of  Upper  Canada  I  would  have  you  take  the  road  for- 
merly recommended  to  you,  leading  to  tlie  River  Raisin  and 
proceed  along  it  to  the  exterior  settlements  on  untill  you  shall 
obtain  information  that  can  be  relied  on  of  the  situation  of  the 
enemy.  If  it  should  be  such  as  to  promise  success  to  an  at- 
tack upon  Brownstown  or  any  other  of  the  Enemies  Estab- 
lishment in  that  direction  j^ou  will  immediately  make  it.  If 
otherwise  you  will  return  to  Fort  Wincliester  or  to  Fort  ^leigs 
as  you  may  think  proper. 

You  must  constantly  have  in  mind  that  a  partial  success 
will  be  much  better  tlian  to  run  any  considerable  risk  to  obtain 
a  greater.  Your  Corps  being  however  finely  mounted  your 
movements  may  be  so  rapid  as  to  allow  you  to  make  your 
stroke  and  escape  pursuit.  Unless  the  enemy  should  be  em- 
bodied to  an  amount  greatly  superior  to  your  force. 

The  great  danger  lies  in  the  inattention,  (so  customary  Vvitli 
Militia)  of  your  officers  and  men,  to  those  measures  which  are 
necessary  to  guard  against  surprise  and  the  confidence  and 
rashness  with  which  a  first  success  is  so  apt  to  inspire  our 
back-woods-men.  I  rely  upon  your  authority  and  exertions  to 
guard  you  against  the  effects  of  a  disposition  which  has  al- 
ready proved  so  false.  When  you  make  an  attack  let  your 
plan  be  fairly  and  distinctly  formed  and  see  that  your  princi- 
pal officer's  well  understand  it  as  must  every  subordinate  one 
the  part  he  is  to  act.  Assure  all  your  men  that  those  who  dis- 
tinguish themselves  be  their  station  what  it  may,  shall  be 
properly  noticed  in  my  communication  to  the  President.  On 
the  contrary  those  who,  by  their  disobedience  or  want  of  at- 
tention to  the  orders  they  may  receive,  may  endanger  the  coips 
or  prevent  its  success  shall  be  publicly  and  everlastingly  dis- 
graced. Your  men  must  be  particularly  cautioned  against 
shouting  or  firing  upon  their  approach  to  the  enemy  until  or- 
dered to  do  so.  An  imprudence  of  this  kind  enabled  many  of 
the  Indians  to  escape    Col.  [James]  Campbell  at  the  Missis- 


470  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

sinway  Towns  and  discovered  to  Genl  [Henry]  Proctor  the 
advance  of  Col.  [William]  Dudley  against  his  Batteries  some 
time  before  he  would  otherv/ise  have  known  it.  To  prevent  a 
similar  occurence  you  ai'e  hereby  positively  ordered  to  direct 
the  odlcers  to  cause  the  first  man  who  offends  in  this  particu- 
lar to  be  shot  down.  The  lives  of  hundreds  must  7iot  be 
jeopardized  by  the  folly  or  villany  of  a  few  individuals. 

I  am  sorry  that  the  provisions  and  stores  sent  from  St. 
jMaiy's  have  been  stoped  at  Fort  Wayne.  If  the  river  is  suffi- 
ciently high,  I  hope  you  will  use  the  authority  vested  in  you  to 
order  the  Boats  to  proceed  unless  there  is  a  probability  of 
their  being  taken  by  the  enemy. 

A  detachment  has  been  sent  up  from  Fort  Meigs  to  Fort 
Winchester  to  bring  down  the  Boats  that  are  there.  If  they 
have  not  all  left  the  latter  they  can  be  sent  down  under  the 
escort  of  the  Kentucky  Militia  company  which  was  sent  there 
from  Fort  McArthur.  In  the  deficiency  of  men  at  Amanda 
the  Company  last  spoken  of  should  have  been  sent  up  to  bring 
down  the  ballance  of  the  stores  and  provisions. 

I  shall  set  out  in  a  day  or  two  for  the  margin  of  the  Lake, 
your  letters  may  be  sent  to  Camp  Meigs  and  if  I  am  not  there 
to  Lower  Sandusky.  Inform  the  people  at  the  River  Raisin 
that  I  shall  soon  be  there  with  an  army  to  protect  them,  and 
tliat  it  is  my  intention  to  establish  a  considerable  post  there 
in  my  advance  from  Fort  Meigs. 

I  am  with  Regard  Sir  Your  humble  Servant 

(Sig-ned)     William  Henry  Harrison 
Col.  R.  M.  Johnson  Com.  a  Regt  of  Moimted  Infantry 
A  true  Copy    John  O'Fallon  Aid  de  Camp 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters  Franklinton  11th,  June  1813 

Har.  Pa.  73-77 

Sir: 

1  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  favors 
•>n}io  19th  and  21st  Ult.  [see  above] 

iho  approbation  bestowed  by  the  Pi'csident  upon  my  own 
and  lhi>  conduct  of  the  troops  employed  in  the  defence  of  Fort 
•i('ig.s,  is  highly  llatcring,  and  will  prove  a  great  stimulus  to 
future  exertions. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        471 

I  received  last  evening  a  letter  from  the  Adjutant  General 
of  Genl.  [Henry]  DearlDorn's  army,  conveying  the  glorious  in- 
telligence of  the  taking  of  Fort  George  and  the  repulsing  the 
enemy  in  their  attack  upon  Sacketts  Harbor.  Col.  [Winfield] 
Scott  also  states  that  it  was  understood  that  Genl.  [Henry] 
Proctor  had  gone  down  with  his  force  to  the  assistance  of 
Genl.  Vincent  and  that  he  supposes  the  junction  would  take 
place  near  Lake  Simcoo.  This,  must  however,  be  a  mistake, 
If  Proctor  has  taken  that  direction,  he  must  have  gone  down 
Lake  Erie  as  far  as  Long  Point,  from  vvhich  a  settlement  and 
road  extends  to  that,  leading  from  Sandwich  up  the  Thames 
to  York  but  whatever  route  he  may  have  taken,  his  absence 
from  Maiden  affords  an  opportunity  for  the  commencement  of 
operations  in  that  direction,  which  I  am  unable  to  profit  by,  in 
any  other  way,  than  by  a  Co^q)  De  Main  with  the  mounted 
force  under  Col.  Johnson. 

The  Col.  left  St.  Mary's  on  the  5th  inst.  with  seven  hundred 
men  for  Fort  Wayne,  from  whence  he  was  to  get  into  the  road 
leading  from  the  St.  Joseph's  river  to  the  river  Raisin  and  act 
as  circumstances  might  authorize  against  the  enemy,  and  then 
proceed  to  Fort  Winchester. 

I  have  this  morning  dispatched  Mr.  McCloskey  an  intelli- 
gent young  man,  who  is  well  acquainted  with  the  country,  with 
instructions  of  which  the  enclosed  is  a  copy,  [see  above]  I  am 
convinced  that  an  opportunity  of  making  a  very  brilliant 
stroke  will  be  offered  him,  there  is  nothing  to  be  dreaded  but 
the  Col.'s  inexperience  and,  the  want  of  discipline  amongst 
his  men ;  for  zeal,  activity,  and  bravery,  his  corps  is  exceeded 
by  none.  My  presence  is  indispensibly  required  here  or  I 
should  have  taken  this  command  myself. 

The  horses  of  Col.  [James  V.]  Ball's  squadron  suffered  so 
much  in  the  siege  of  Fort  Meigs  that  they  are  not  yet  fit  for 
service,  but  will  be  so  in  a  short  time. 

Capt.  [James  R.]  Butler  of  the  twelve  months  Vol.  and  Lt. 
[David]  Gwynn  of  the  19th  Regi:  arrived  here  the  day  before 
yesterday  from  Fort  IMeigs;  from  them  and  the  letters  brought 
by  them,  I  learn  that  the  troops  at  that  post  had  been  reduced 
by  sickness  to  five  hundred  effectives.  The  prevalent  diseases 
were  the  dysentary,  and  measles,  the  former  brought  on  by 
exposure  during  the  siege,  seized  almost  every  individual. 
There  were  however,  but  few  deaths,  and  much  the  greater 


472  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

portion  of  the  sick  were  convalescent  and  but  few  new  cases. 
A  drove  of  fine  fat  Beeves  wliich  reached  the  fort  some  days 
ago,  will  add  greatly  to  their  recovery. 

Every  exertion  is  making  to  push  on  the  new  raised  troops 
towards  the  Lake,  the  twenty-fourth  Regt.  would  have 
marched  tomorrow,  ]:>ut  for  a  heavy  rain,  which  fell  last  night, 
and  which  has  rendered  the  creeks  impassible,  I  shall  go  with 
it  or  follow  soon  afte]\ 

Gen.  [Duncan]  I\IcArthur,  [Lewis]  Cass,  and  [James] 
Findley  have  recommended  to  you  a  Mr.  [Simon  Zelotus] 
Watson  for  the  appointment  of  topographical  engineer  to  this 
army,  from  what  I  have  seen  and  heard  of  him  he  appears  to 
be  qualified  for  the  appointment  and  perhaps  better  ac- 
quainted with  Canada  than  any  other  person  in  the  United 
States. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  With  Great  Respect  Sir 

William  Henry  Harrison 
Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  ivar 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  June  14th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  77 

Sir: 

The  commissions  may  be  bestowed  as  you  propose  in  your 
letter  of  the  5th  instant.  My  preceding  letters  have  author- 
ized you  to  assemble  the  troops  where  you  may  think  best — 
keeping  in  view  their  prompt  embarkation  when  the  vessels 
shall  be  ready  for  action.  The  clothing  foi-  the  three  new  regi- 
ments has  been  long  since  on  the  road  for  Chilicothe  and  New- 
port. 

The  order  given  for  issuing  half  a  ration  per  man  extra, 
may  have  been  justified  by  the  circumstances  of  the  siege,  but 
ought  to  have  terminated  with  th(?se. 

I  have  not  received  the  list  of  prisoners  of  war  who  have 
enlisted.  There  is  on  the  subject  of  exchanges,  an  obstinacy 
and  insolence  on  the  part  of  Sir  Geo.  Prevost  which  must  be 
corrected. 

It  would  be  of  much  importance  to  have  circulated  among 
the  hostile  tribes  of  Indians  the  late  occurrences  on  Lake  On- 
tario and  Niagara  River.    How  could  this  be  done?  The  enemy 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        473 

^vi]l  no  doubt  endeavor  to  keep  these  poor  wretches  in  the 
dark. 

The  wliole  number  of  Deputy  connnissaries  of  Ordnance  au- 
tliorized  by  law  is  four.  I  have  proposed  to  Congress  to  add 
five  others.  This  proposition,  if  adopted,  will  give  room  for 
]\Ir.  [Robert  D.]  Richardson. 

I\Iajor  General  Harrison 

Harrison  to  John  H.  Piatt 
Head  Quarters  Franklinton  June  18th  1813 
Sir:  Har.  Pa.  102 

You  will  superintend  the  issues  and  safe  keeping  of  all  the 
provisons  belonging  to  the  United  States  except  tliose  at  Camp 
Meigs,  the  two  Sanduskys,  Delaware,  Franklinton,  Chilicothe 
and  those  to  the  eastward  of  the  Scioto. 

The  Contractors  are  not  to  be  suffered  to  issue  at  any  of 
those  places  where  the  public  have  provisions. 

Every  possible  exertion  is  to  be  made,  to  have  the  provisions 
from  Fort  Wayne,  Fort  Winchester  and  Amanda  taken  to  the 
Rapids,  and  that  at  Lorimie's  taken  to  St.  Marys. ^ 
I  am  Respy.  Yr.  Humble  Servant. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
John  H.  Piatt  Dy.  Coinmng.  Genl. 

Harrison  to  B.  G.  Orr 
Head  Quarters,  Franklinton,  June  20,  1813 

o,^  .  Avi.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Affairs  I,  GJt5 

I  am  directed,  by  the  Secretary  of  War,  to  complete  the 
arrangements  v/ith  you  for  turning  over  to  you  all  the  pro- 
visions which  have  been  purchased  on  the  public  account. 

1.  From  the  North  West.  INIajor  acn.  HaniKon  was  at  Franklinton,  June  16. 
Col.  Anfleison  with  a  ro.;;iment  of  regulars,  800  .stiduK,  liad  airived  there  from  Ten- 
nessee, where  they  were  recruited.  We  may  look  for  offensive  operations  in  a  few  days. 
The  frovernor  of  Ohio  has  invited  his  fellow-citizens  to  join  Kcn.  Harrison  in  a  short 
tdvir  of  duty  in  the  territory  of  Michiican  and  distiict  of  Maiden,  aKainst  their  IJrilish 
enemies  and  their  ferocious  allies,  that  peace  may  rest  on  their  borders.  They  are 
to  be  mounted. 

A  regiment  of  T2  months  men,  laised  in  Kentucky,  and  cominaiidcd  by  Col.  [Thomas 
novel    OwinRs,   were  to  ma)oh   to  join   (Ion.  Harrison   about  the   24th   of  .lune. 

The  death  of  Ken.  Green  Clay,  of  Kentucky,  at  Fort  MeiKs,  has  been  announced. 
Wc  are  happy  to  say  the  report  is  not  true.     lie  had  been  ill,  but  was  convalescent. 

NUcs'  Rci/iUcr  IV,   gS!) 

33—22664 


474  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

It  is  necessary,  therefore,  that  you  should  immediately  meet 
mo  at  Lovrcr  Sandusky,  in  order  that  the  business  may  be 
finislied  as  soon  as  possible.  I  have  directed  that  no  issues 
of  provisions  be  made,  on  your  account,  at  any  of  the  posts 
wliere  the  public  have  th.ern.  There  is,  I  imagine,  full  as  much 
provisions  on  hand,  the  property  of  the  United  States,  as  will 
be  wanted  for  the  campaign  some  fresh  beef  excepted. 

I  am,  etc. 

William  Henry  Harrison 
B.  G.  Orr,  Confracfor  to  the  Eight  Military  District 

Green  Clay  to  Harrison 

Cai^ip  Meigs,  June  20th,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  7S-S1 

Dear  Sir  : 

Two  men,  one  a  Frenchman  and  the  other  a  private  in  the 
late  Col.  [William]  Dudley's  regiment  have  just  arrived  from 
Detroit  and  from  whom  we  have  the  important  intelligence 
that  the  enemy  contemplates  another  attack  upon  this  Gar- 
rison. 

The  Frenchman  states  "that  the  Indians  had  for  some  time 
been  urging  Genl.  Proctor  to  renew  the  attack.  A  council  of 
war  was  held  a  few  days  since  when  it  was  determined  to  re- 
new the  attack  on  Fort  Meigs,  and  the  combined  forces  were 
to  set  out  on  this  day  or  tomorrow  at  furthest  ^\ith  that  view. 

From  every  information  the  Indians  would  be  about  4,000 
strong  with  the  expectation  of  an  additional  reinforcement  of 
perliaps  as  many  more.  The  British  Regulars  (about  1600 
strong)  from  fort  George  and  Fort  Erie,  had  been  sent  for 
and  were  expected  at  ]\Ialden. 

The  Canadian  Militia  had  been  paraded  on  the  4th  June 
(the  Kings  birth  day)  and  after  a  speech  by  the  Genl  had  beer. 
ordered  to  yield  up  their  arms  being  deemed  unworthy  his 
majesty's  service. 

Tecumsch  was  encamped  on  the  River  Rouge  near  its  mouth. 

The  Prisoner,  Thomas  Law  of  Capt.  Kerrs  Company  Ken- 
tucky ]\Iilitia,  states  "on  the  5th  i\Iay  he  was  taken  prisoner 
by  the  Indians  and  carried  about  150  miles  above  Detroit  to 
the  Sajuna  [Saginaw]  Tribe  v.'here  he  remained  with  two 
other  Prisoners  untill  a  few  days  past  when  all  three  at- 
tempted their  escape. 

They  were  discovered  by  the  Indians  fired  on  and  scattered 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        475 

but  neither  killed.  He  then  made  his  way  good  to  the  neigh- 
bourhood of  Detroit  when  ho  fell  in  with  the  Frenchmen  whose 
statement  precedes  and  who  agreed  to  accompany  him  to  this 
place." 

When  at  a  small  distance  from  Detroit  he  was  met  or  over- 
tiiken  by  a  large  portly  man  of  fair  complextion  who  tole  him 
to  hurry  on  to  this  place  with  all  possible  expedition  and  in- 
form the  Commanding  oflicer  there  that  this  place  would  be 
again  besieged.  The  enemy  would  consist  of  about  400  In- 
dians 15  or  IGOO  regulars  (a  reenforcement  just  arrived  at 
]\Ialden)  and  the  whole  regular  foiTe  from  that  post,  and  that 
the  enemy  would  set  out  by  Monday — tomorrow  for  this  place. 

He  also  states  that  previous  to  his  leaving  the  Indians  nearly 
all  the  warriors  from  the  Saguna  tribes  had  left  their  To'\\ms 
for  Detroit. 

That  the  person  who  gave  him  this  information  states  as  his 
opinion  that  the  enemy  intended  an  attack  on  the  post  in  the 
rear  of  this  and  that  his  opinion  was  founded  on  information 
secured  from  a  squaw. 

The  officers  of  the  garrison  have  been  generally  consulted 
an  they  give  the  fullest  confidence  to  the  belief  that  the  enemy 
contemplate  another  attack  on  this  Fort  nor  do  I  hesitate  to 
join  in  the  belief. 

The  importance  of  this  communication  needs  no  comment 
from  me. 

We  shall  be  prepared  to  give  our  enemy  a  warm  reception 
come  when  they  will.  I  have  every  confidence  in  your  exer- 
tions and  feel  that  it  is  through  you  this  army  looks  for  tri- 
umphs over  its  enemies. 

I  have  sent  express  on  different  routes  and  to  different 
posts  to  meet  you  and  enclosed  copies  of  this  communication 
to  Gov.  Meigs  and  Shelby.  I  have  taken  the  liberty  to  order 
Colo.  [R.  M.]  Johnson's  regiment  of  mounted  men  from  Fort 
Winchester  to  this  place  immediately. 

By  different  detachment  sent  from  this  place  we  have  re- 
ceived from  Fort  Winchester  about  1200  barrels  flour  includ- 
ing that  escorted  by  Ensign  Gray  from  Amar.da. 

I  am  with  high  consideration  and  respect  your  Humble 
Scrvt 

(Signed)     Green  Clay 
His  Excellency  ]\Iajor  Genl.  William  H.  Harrison 
A  True  Copy    John  O'Fallon  Aid  de  Camp 


476  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  B.  G.  Orr 
Head  Quarters,  Franklinton,  June  22,  1813 

o„.  Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Affairs  I,  6i5 

Your  letter  of  this  date  is  now  before  me;  the  pi'oposition 
contained  in  it  cannot  be  acceded  to.  The  only  arrangement 
which  I  think  myself  authorized  to  make,  is  that  of  delivering 
over  to  you  all  the  public  provisions,  of  every  description, 
which  have  been  purchased  fo]*  the  army,  and  taking  your 
receipt  for  it,  in  the  manner  prescribed  by  the  Secretary  of 
War's  instructions.  I  must  observe,  also,  that  most  of  the 
provisions  arc  placed  in  situations  where  it  was  never  in- 
tended they  should  be  used;  nor  can  I  say  how  far  the  United 
States  will  be  bound  to  pa.y  for  the  transportation  of  it.  This 
question  will  remain  for  the  determination  of  the  Secretary  of 
War.  I  have  also  to  inform  you  that  a  contract  exists  and  is 
now  in  operation  for  transporting  the  provisions  which  are  at 
Norton  and  Upper  Sandusky  to  Lower  Sandusky.  The  pub- 
lic teams  are  also  engaged  in  this  business.  Should  it  be  de- 
termined that  the  contractors  are  to  pay  the  expense  of  trans- 
portation, all  that  is  transported  after  this  day  will  of  course 
be  charged  to  them.  I  cannot  give  you  a  correct  statement 
of  the  provisions  we  have  on  hand;  it  is,  however,  sufficient 
to  serve  the  whole  of  the  troops  to  be  employed  within  this  dis- 
trict, and  in  the  operations  against  Detroit  and  Maiden,  at 
least,  until  the  first  of  December,  next. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  humble  servant, 

William  Henry  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Governor  Meigs 
Head-quarters,  Franklinton  June  23d,  1813 

Dear  Sir*  NUcs'  Register  IV,  SOS 

An  express  has  just  arrived  from  camp  Meigs,  bringing 

information  that  an  army  of  British  and  Indians  Vv'^ere  about 

to  make  another  attack  upon  that  place.     I  think  it  probable 

that  fort  ]\Ieigs  is  not  the  object,  but  that  the  attack  will  be 

upon  Lower  Sandusky,  Cleveland  or  Erie.    I  shall  set  out  early 

in  the  nioj'ning  for  Saiidusky,  and  will  keep  you  constantly 

a|)prised  of  the  events  passing  in  that  direction.     I  am  your 

friend, 

Wm.  II.  Harrison 


HARRISON:     Mi:SSAGES  AND  LETTERS        477 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  64) 

(Head  Quarters)  Franklinton,  June  23,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  S3 

Sir: 

The  letter  from  Genl.  [Green]  Clay  of  which  the  enclosed  is 
a  co}3y  was  received  by  an  express  this  moment  arrived,  [see 
June  20  above] 

The  five  companies  of  the  24th  Rcgt.  are  between  Upper  and 
Lower  Sandusky,  one  hundred  and  forty  of  the  26ih  Regt. 
and  about  sixty  of  the  seventeenth,  are  at  this  place,  about 
fifty  of  the  latter  are  on  the  march  from  Cincinnati. 

The  recruits  of  the  26th  when  assembled  will  amount  to 
about  three  hundred,  one  fourth  of  them,  are  however,  pris- 
oners of  War. 

I  send  this  through  to  ineet  the  mail  at  Zanesvihe.  I  have 
sent  an  express  to  Col.  [R.  IM.]  Johnson,  directing  him,  if  pos- 
sible to  get  into  Fort  Meigs,  should  he  be  unable  to  do  so  he 
will  pj'oceed  to  join  the  troop  on  the  road  from  this  to  Camp. 
Meigs.  I  have  sent  an  express  to  inform  Major  [Thomas  J.] 
Jessup  and  Capt.  [Oliver  H.]  Perry  of  the  navy  of  the  move- 
ments of  the  enemy. 

I  shall  set  out  tomorrow  myself  for  Sandusky. 

WiLLiA^i  Henry  Harrison 
The  Hon.  John  Armstrong  Secretary  of  War. 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  65) 


Head  Quarters  Franklinton  23rd  June  1813 

Har.  Pa.  SJf,  85 

Sir: 

Having  understood  that  insinuations  had  been  made  to  the 
prejudice  of  Col.  [James]  ]\Iorrison  late  Dy.  Qr,  Genl.  of  the 
Noi'th  Westei'n  army  whilst  acting  in  that  capacity,  justice  to 
that  Gentlema)!  induces  mc;  to  declare  that  I  am  fully  pur- 
suaded  that  no  man  in  the  U.  States  could  have  jjcj-formed  the 
duties  of  that  Department  with  more  zeal,  fidelity  and  aility 
than  did  that  Gentleman.  Such  were  his  ar]-angements  that  in 
despite  of  the  most  unfavorale  winter  ])erhaps  that  has  ever 
been  known  in  the  Westei'n  Country  for  such  operations,  the 
Army  would  have  been  supplied  with  pi'ovisions  in  its  advance 


478  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

to  Maiden.  The  great  expenses  of  his  Department  were  early 
foreseen  and  stated  by  him  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  and  al- 
though it  cannot  be  denied  that  great  abuses  have  been  prac- 
ticed by  many  of  the  inferior  Agents  of  the  Department,  they 
were  unavoidable  from  the  necessity  that  existed  of  employing 
men  for  whose  character  he  was  obliged  to  rely  upon  the  in- 
formation of  others. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect 
Sir  Your  Obedient  Servt. 

William  Henry  Hariiison 
The  honble  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  66) 


Headquarters  Franklinton,  24th  June  1813 

Har.  Pa.  85-90 

Sir: 

I  wrote  to  you  last  night  hastily  encloseing  a  copy  of  a  letter 
just  received  from  Gen.  [Green]  Clay.  I  think  it  most  prob- 
able that  the  enemy  will  attack  some  other  point  than  Fort 
Meigs;  their  great  objects  are  to  get  provisions  and  destroy 
our  vessels  before  they  are  ready  for  service. 

There  are  at  Lower  Sandusky  about  five  hundi'cd  barrels 
of  flour  I  sent  Col.  [Samuel]  Wells  off  last  evening  to  that 
post  with  directions  to  take  command  of  it  and  should  the 
Lritish  approach  it  in  force  to  destroy  the  stores  and  fort  and 
i-..;lire  towards  Upper  Sandusky  with  the  Garrison  which  is 
coiii{)()sod  entirely  of  nuitinous  militia.  The  post  indeed  could 
not  be  defended  against  Heavy  artillery  which  could  be 
brouglit  by  water  to  the  spot.  Provisions  being  necessary  to 
tlio  enemy,  and  our  supplies  so  large,  that  it  appears  to  me 
to  be  our  policy  to  destroy  any  of  our  magazines  rather  than 
run  any  great  risque  of  having  them  taken. 

I  have  directed  Col.  [\^'illiam  P.]  Anderson  to  lialt  between 
('j)ix'r  and  Lower  Sandusky  and  fortify  his  camp.  I  sliall 
reach  him  tomorrow  night.  The  troops  that  are  coming  on 
in  deta(']nn(!nts  from  the  recruiting  rendezvous  have  been  oi'- 
dered  to  follow  in  that  way. 

Mr.  [Ben.  G.]  Orr  the  conti-actor  declines  taking  the  public 
provisions  untill  he  can  see  you  for  which  purpose  he  sets  out 
this  moniing  for  Washington,  he  complains  of  the  want  of 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        479 

funds  and  asserts  that  he  has  purchased  or  left  money  to  pur- 
cliase  a  considerable  quanity  of  provisions  at  Cleveland,  this 
he  ouglit  not  to  have  done,  at  least  not  to  a  greater  amount 
than  for  the  temporary  supply  of  Cleveland  and  Lov/er  San- 
dusky as  he  knew  of  the  immense  supplies  we  had  on  our 
liands. 

I  enclose  herewith  a  statement  of  the  provisions  now  on 
hand  at  Fort  Meiges. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great 
respect  your  Obedient  Servant 
William  Henry  Harrison 
lion.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War  "\ 

Roi)ort  of  provisions  remaining  at  different  posts  on  the  Cen- 
ter and  Left  wing  of  the  N.  W.  Army  the  purchases  of  John 
II.  Piatt  Depy.  Purchasing  Commissary  on  the  24th  day  of 
June  1813. 


Name  of  Post 


f»i 

(U 

to 

^ 

T3    O 

m    ^ 

—;  =" 

— ;  " 

to 

3  *r3 

— <  -t-^ 

.  M 

g  o 

3   o 

(P  73 

-^  2, 

.Q  .2 

-^  "rt 

-o    o 

o   a 

O     o 

O    d 

CQ  Ph 

M  P5 

PQ  CS 

m  m 

W  Ph 

Ph  cq 

«  W 

m  u 

Kt.  Winchester.  .1,209 247     119       13 


Ft.  Jennings 

Amanda 

St.  Marys 

Loramics 

Greenville 

Piqua 

Dayton 

Ft.  Findley 

Ft.  McArtluir... . 


2G 

400 

lOG 

1,590 


332 

163 

GO 

536 


3,422 


90 


3M 

69 

9 

153 


193  607M  2523^^ 


6 
3 

50 
14 


15 


20,000  I  101  18l  Part  of  the 
flour  damaged  being  sunk  in 
the  river  after  leaving  Amanda 
and  St.  Marys  and  for  the 
want  of  proper  care  after  it 
arrived  at  Ft.  Winchester. 


600 

110,000 

8,000 


18,360 

1,200 

4,000 

500 


28162,060 


1 

14 

23 

3 

6 

5 

5 

8 

4 

6 

4 

28 

21 

12 

95 

73 

Good  ord. 


73  Total  Amt 


At  all  the  above  mentioned  Posts  I  have  appointed  issuing 
commissaries  by  Order  of  Major  Gcnl.  William  H.  Harrison 
at  thirty  dollars  per  month  who  will  continue  to  issue  till  ar- 
rangements are  made  for  the  contractors  to  receive  the  public 

provisions  at  those  posts. 

John  H.  Piatt 


480  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

John  H.  Piatt  to  Harrison 

Cincinnati,  Jime  30,  1813 

Am..  State  Papers  Military  Affairs,  653 

Dear  Sir  : 

Having  made  the  necessary  arrangements,  I  returned  to  this 
place  on  the  28th,  and  shall  take  every  possible  care  to  have 
the  provisions  in  my  charge  taken  care  of,  and  issued  in  the 
proper  manner.  I  have  now  ready  two  hundred  and  twenty- 
five  beeves,  taken  up  at  Manary's  block-house,  which  shall  be 
forwarded  whenever  your  excellency  thinks  proper  to  give  the 
order.    Your  family  are  in  good  health. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient 
servant,  John  H.  Piatt 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War  ?    ' 

(No.  68) 

Head  Quarters  Lower  Sandusky  July  2nd  1813 

Har.  Pa.  91-9 A 

Sir: 

I  did  myself  the  honor  to  write  to  you  on  the  23rd  Ult. 
[see  above]  from  Franklinton  communicating  the  information 
I  had  received  from  Fort  Meigs  and  my  intention  of  setting 
out  for  that  post  the  next  day.  I  overtook  the  24th  Regi 
about  20  miles  below  upper  Sandusky  in  the  evening  of  the 
2()ih  and  having  selected  the  men  who  were  able  to  make  a 
forced  march  to  the  amount  of  300  I  proceeded  with  all  pos- 
sible expedition  and  on  the  evening  of  the  28th  reached  Fort 
IMeigs.  I  found  that  Col  [R.  M.]  Johnson's  Mounted  Inft. 
had  been  there  some  days.  As  Genl  [Green]  Clay  could  give 
no  fresh  information  of  the  movements  and  designs  of  the 
eiiemy  I  directed  Col.  Johnson  to  despatch  a  select  party  of 
men  to  the  river  Raisin  to  procure  it.  The  Colonel  took  com- 
mand of  the  party  and  returned  to  Fort  Meiges  the  night  be- 
fore last,  bringing  with  him  two  Frenchmen  one  of  them  a 
citizen  of  the  Michigan  Territory  the  other  a  British  Subject. 
The  Colonel  visited  all  the  inhabited  Houses  at  the  River 
Raisin. 

The  information  derived  from  all  of  them  correspond  and 
among  them  was  Col.  [Francis]  Navarre  a  Militia  oiTicer  of 
Respectability.  Tliey  had  heard  of  no  reinforcement  of  Brit- 
ish Troops  arriving  at  Maldon  nor  any  considerable  accession 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        481 

of  Indians  since  the  seige  of  Fort  Meigs.  The  Indians  had 
pressed  Genl.  Proctor  to  make  another  attack  upon  Fort  Meigs 
and  was  much  disatisfied  with  his  putting  them  off.  They  at 
lengtli  heard  of  the  progress  of  the  war  below  and  the  taking 
of  Fort  George  through  a  Mr.  Kinsey  an  Indian  trader  [John 
11.  Kinzie,  founder  of  Chicago] .  Proctor  caused  Kinsey  to  be 
seized,  the  Indians  demanded  and  obtained  his  release,  and  he 
had  held  councils,  the  proceedings  of  which  were  kept  secret 
from  the  British.  Co.  Navarre  also  informed  Col.  Johnson 
that  one  hundred  warriors  principally  of  the  Ottawa  tribe 
had  passed  the  River  Raison  in  Boats  and  canoes  to  take  scalps 
in  the  vicinity  of  this  place. 

As  there  was  no  object  of  importance  to  keep  me  longer  at 
Fort  INIeigs  I  set  out  from  thence  yesterday  with  an  escort 
of  Col.  Johnson  Regt.  and  came  to  this  place  in  the  hope  of 
meeting  with  Col.  [James  V.]  Ball's  squadron  with  which 
and  the  mounted  riflemen  I  brought  with  me  I  expected  to 
defeat  any  attempt  of  the  Indians  above  mentioned.  Unluck- 
ily they  had  made  a  stroke  the  day  before  killing  at  a  farm- 
house near  this  place  3  men  a  woman  and  two  children.  They 
returned  towards  Fort  Meigs  and  I  am  in  hopes  that  Col. 
Johnson,  whom  I  ordered  to  follow  me  will  meet  with  them. 

Col.  [James  V.]  Ball  has  not  arrived  but  will  be  here  in  a 
few  hours.  His  destination  is  Cleveland.  I  have  ordered  there 
also,  all  the  recruits  enlisted  for  the  27th  Regt  in  the  Connec- 
ticut Reserve  and  shall  proceed  there  myself  tomorrow. 

Upon  the  arrival  of  Col.  Johnson  at  Fort  Wayne  he  deemed 
it  proper  to  follow  some  Indians,  that  had  killed  three  men  in 
a  Boat  descending  the  St.  Marys,  as  far  as  the  Potawatimie 
Town  or  the  St.  Josephs  of  Lake  Michigan.  He  saw  several 
small  parties  of  Indians  but  was  unable  to  come  up  with  them. 
The  Towns  were  destroyed  by  a  Detaclmient  which  I  sent 
from  Fort  Wayne  last  September  and  have  not  since  been  re- 
built. The  colonel  returned  to  Fort  Wayne  and  from  thence 
descended  to  Fort  Winchester  where  he  was  preparing  to  ex- 
ecute my  order  for  an  attack  upon  Brownstown  when  he  re- 
ceived a  letter  from  Gen.  Clay  requiring  him  to  repair  to  Fort 
Meigs.  His  horses  are  too  much  reduced  to  undertake  the 
proposed  enterprise  against  Brownstown.  I  have  therefore 
directed  him  to  go  to  Huron  River  to  recruit  them.  The  en- 
emy are  so  illy  supplied  with  provisions  as  to  justify  very  con- 


482  INDIANA  HISTORICAl.  COLLECTIONS 

siderable  risk  to  obtain  them.  Should  they  reduce  Fort  Wayne 
or  Fort  Winchester  what  they  might  obtain  at  those  places 
will  be  of  little  services  to  them  as  they  cannot  take  it  off. 
From  this  place  Huron  or  Cleveland  it  could  be  easily  carried 
to  ]\Ialden.  At  the  two  places  there  is  a  considerable  quantity 
of  Hour  the  property  of  Individuals. 

The  position  which  Col.  Johnson  will  occupy  will  enable  him 
to  reinforce  the  troops  at  this  place  or  Cleveland  with  great 
facility. 

The  monthly  Returns  from  the  several  posts  under  my  com- 
mand having  not  reached  Fort  Meigs  till  a  few  days  before 
my  arrival  there,  it  is  not  in  my  power  at  present  to  forward 
a  Genl.  Retum,  But  have  left  Capt.  [James  R.]  Butler  the 
Actg.  Asst.  Adj.  Genl.  at  Fort  Meigs  to  prepare  one  from 
there  which  will  be  forwarded  as  soon  as  completed. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Sir 
Your  Humble  Servt. 

^^       ^'y^     ^:£':r;/  i^  iVNA  ■  WiLLIAM  HENRY  HARRISON 

Hon.  Gen.  Armstrong.  Secty.  of  War 

R.  M.  Johnson  to  Harrison 

,  ^   .   '  Camp  at  Lower  Sandusky, 

July  4th,  1813 
-^  _,  ...  McAfee,  History,  310 

Dr.,\n  Sir— 

I  an-ived  at  this  place  last  evening  with  a  part  of  the 
mounted  regiment,  after  two  days  march  from  camp  Meigs, 
leaving  two  companies  four  miles  in  the  rear,  who  were  un- 
able to  reach  this  place;  besides  about  twenty  horses  left  on 
the  way,  which  I  am  in  hopes  will  be  able  to  get  back  to  camp 
Meigs  or  come  to  this  place  in  a  few  days,  where  we  can  keep 
them  together  and  recruit  them.  Having  been  in  the  most 
active  service  for  upwards  of  forty  days,  and  having  travelled 
upwards  of  700  miles,  much  of  it  forced  marching,  it  is  nat- 
ural to  conclude  that  most  of  the  horses  are  weak ;  and  we  feel 
grunt  pleasure,  and  obligations  to  you,  in  finding  your  ar- 
rangements such  as  to  enable  us  to  recruit  the  horses  of  the 
regiment.  To  be  ready  to  move  with  you,  to  Detroit  and 
Canada,  against  the  enemies  of  our  country,  is  the  first  wish 
of  our  hearts.  Two  great  objects  induced  us  to  come — first, 
to  be  at  the  regaining  of  our  own  territory  and  Detroit,  and 
at  the  taking  of  Maiden  and  secondly  to  serve  under  an  officer 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        483 

in  wliom  we  have  confidence.  We  could  not  have  engaged  in 
the  service  without  such  a  prospect,  when  we  recollected  what 
disasters  have  attencd  us  for  the  want  of  good  generals.  We 
did  not  want  to  serve  under  cowards,  drunkards,  old  grannies, 
nor  traitors,  but  under  one  who  had  proved  liimself  to  be  wise, 
prudent  and  brave.  The  officers  of  the  mounted  regiment  had 
some  idea  of  addressing  you  on  their  anxiety  to  be  a  part  of 
your  army  in  the  campaign  against  Canada,  and  of  giving  you 
a  statement  of  the  importance  of  having  an  opportunity  to 
make  the  regiment  efficient  for  such  a  campaign  by  recruiting 
their  horses.  As  to  the  men  they  are  active,  healthy  and  fond 
of  service.  This  morning  I  have  sent  out  100  on  foot  to  scour 
the  surrounding  country;  and  wherever  we  are  we  wish  con- 
tinual service.  Our  regiment  is  about  900  strong  when  all 
together.  I  have  left  100  at  Defiance  to  regain  some  lost 
horses,  and  to  guard  that  frontier. 

You  have  not  witnessed  the  opposition  I  encountered  in 
raising  the  regiment.  Every  personal  enemy,  every  traitor 
and  tory,  and  your  enemies,  all  combined — but  in  vain.  Noth- 
ing but  the  hurry  which  attended  our  march  prevented  me 
from  having  1500  men.  Nothing  but  the  importance  of  the 
service,  which  I  thought  we  could  render,  would  have  justified 
my  absence  from  the  present  catch  penny  congress.  (The 
great  object  of  the  session  was  to  raise  a  revenue)  My 
enemies,  your  enemies,  the  enemies  of  our  cause,  would  exult 
if  the  mounted  regiment  should  from  any  cause,  be  unable  to 
carry  a  strong  arm  against  the  savages  and  British,  when 
you  strike  the  grand  blow. 

It  is  with  much  diffidence  I  write  you  anything  touching 
militaiy  matters;  but  the  desires  of  my  soul  and  the  situation 
of  the  regiment,  have  induced  me  thus  freely  and  confidentially 
to  express  myself.  In  the  morning  we  shall  leave  this  place 
for  Huron,  ready  to  receive  your  orders,  which  will  always  be 
cheerfully  executed  at  every  hazard. 

Your  obedient  servant 

Rd.  M.  Johnson 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
No  70 

Head  Quarters  Cleveland  July  6th,  1813 

o,„  Har.  Pa.  95,  96 

Sir: 

I  arrived  here  at  9  o'clock  this  morning.     I  found  ]\Iajor 


484  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

[Thomas  S.]  Jessup  with  about  170  effective  men,  80  of  which 
are  of  the  Artillery  Corps  viz.  Capt.  [Stanton]  Sholes  com- 
pany of  the  2nd  Regiment  and  the  small  detachment  that  was 
taken  with  Capt.  [Samuel]  Price. 

I  have  had  only  verbal  accounts  of  the  progress  of  our  naval 
armament  at  Erie  towards  completion.  A  letter  from  Capt. 
[Oliver  Hazard]  Perry  unfortunately  passed  me  on  the  way 
hither  and  will  not  arrive  until  late  this  evening.  I  am  in- 
formed, however  that  the  vessels  are  equipped  and  waiting 
only  for  their  crews.  It  is  highly  desirable  that  they  should 
pi'oceed  up  the  Lake  as  soon  as  possible.  By  taking  possession 
of  the  Harbour  at  the  Bass  Islands  they  would  oblige  the  ships 
of  the  enemy  to  confine  themselves  to  Maiden  or  risk  a  battle 
in  the  present  deficient  state  of  their  crews.  Is  it  not  indeed 
the  intention  of  the  Government  to  bring  to  speedy  issue  the 
contest  for  the  naval  superiority  upon  this  lake? 

In  a  former  letter  you  did  me  the  honor  to  inform  me  that 
the  deficiency  in  the  regular  troops  contemplated  to  be  em- 
ployed under  my  command,  was  to  be  made  up  with  militia. 
From  whence  are  these  Militia  to  come?  and  by  whom  called 
into  service?  They  could  be  furnished  with  most  convenience 
and  marched  to  the  Lake  much  sooner  from  the  upper  coun- 
ties of  Pennsylvania  and  Virgina,  than  from  Kentucky  or  even 
from  this  state.  There  will  be  no  difficulty  in  getting  the  Ken- 
tucky Militia  now  in  service  to  cross  the  Lake,  nor  am  I  ap- 
prehensive that  any  will  exist  with  those  which  maj^  be  taken 
from  the  other  states. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Vv^ith  great  respect  and  consideration 
Your 

Humble  Servant 

William  Henry  Harrison 
Ilonble.  J.  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War 

Harrison  to  Secretary  op  War 
No  71 

Head  Quarters  Cleveland  July,  9th,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  97-99 

Sir: 

I  had  not  the  honor  of  receiving  youi"  letter  of  the  9th  of 
June,  [see  above]  until  the  evening  before  last,  it  had  been, 
by  a  blunder  of  the  post  master  at  Chilicothc  sent  to  Cin- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        485 

cinatti;  the  moment  I  received  it,  I  dispatched  a  special 
express  to  Col.  [R.  M.]  Johnson  directing*  him  to'  proceed  im- 
mediately to  Kaskaskias.  I  have  left  to  him  the  choice  of 
the  two  routes,  Vis,  by  Forts  Winchester  and  Wayne  and 
down  the  south  side  of  the  Wabash  to  Vincennes,  or  that  by 
U.  Sandusky,  Fort  McArthur,  St.  Marys,  Greenville.  The  old 
Delaware  towns,  or  White  river,  Ft.  Harrison  and  Vincennes. 

I  am  still  of  opinion  that  the  fears  entertained  of  an  inva- 
sion of  the  Illinois  and  Missouri  Territories,  by  anj''  consider- 
able force,  are  entirely  groundless.  All  the  accounts  lately  re- 
ceived from  Maiden  and  Detroit,  agree  as  to  the  daily 
expectation  of  the  arrival  of  [Robert]  Dixon  with  a  further 
reinforcement  of  northern  and  V/estei-n  Indians. 

I  have  as  yet  received  no  information  from  Capt.  [Oliver 
II.]  Perry.  My  anxiety  to  know  the  precise  situation  of  our 
naval  armament,  has  induced  me  to  dispatch  an  officer  to  Erie. 

A  company  of  the  27th  Regt.  will  probably  arrive  here  this 
evening.  Major  [Robert]  Morrison  who  was  sent  by  Genl. 
[Lewis]  Cass  to  command  the  two  companies  ordered  here, 
arrived  a  few  days  ago.  I  am  sorry  to  find  that  he,  as  well 
as  Maj.  [Jeremiah  R.]  IMunson  the  other  Major  of  the  Regi- 
ment are  prisoners  of  war,  as  I  am  told  is  the  case  with  sev- 
eral of  the  other  ofTicers,  and  a  number  of  the  men.  It  is 
much  to  be  regreted  that  one  of  those  regiments  had  not  been 
allotted  to  Tennessee,  or  the  upper  parts  of  Virginia  and  Pen- 
sylvania.  f 

Major  [Andrew  Hunter]  Holmes  has  arrived  at  this  place. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  With  great  i-espect  Sir, 
Your  Humble  Servant 

William  Henry  Harrison 
The  Hon.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  SecreUiry  of  War 

N.  B.  Lt.  [William  0.]  Winston's  resignation  is  accepted  to 
take  effect  this  day. 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No  72) 

Head  Quarters  Cleveland  9th  July  1813 

Har.  Pa.  100 

Sir: 

The  uncommon  sickness  of  the  Troops  for  two  months  past 
and  the  great  waste  of  Hospital  stores  and  medicines  by  the 
Militia  Surgeons  and  mates  at  the  small  posts  render  it  ncc- 


■180 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


ossaiy  that  a  supply  should  be  forwarded  as  soon  as  possible. 
I  do  myself  the  Honor  to  enclose  a  list  of  such  as  will  be  im- 
tnodiately  wanted,  furnished  by  Dr.  [Hugh]  Stanard. 

1  have  written  to  the  Dp.  Qr.  Master  Genl.  at  Pittsburgh 
to  send  on  by  land  to  this  place,  a  few  articles  of  groceries 
and  some  muslins.  Permit  me  to  request  that  orders  be  given 
foi'  all  the  liquor  destined  for  the  Hospital  department  to  have 
a  d)y  Barren  put  over  that  which  contains  them.  Experience 
has  long  since  convinced  all  those  in  the  Western  country  who 
a)"c  desirous  of  having  their  Liquors  secured  from  plunder  and 
adulteration,  that  it  is  the  only  way  of  affecting  it. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  Yr.  Humble 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Tlie  Honble  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secretary  of  War 


The  following  is  a  list  of  Medicine  and  Hospital  Stores 
which  will  be  immediately  wanting. 


Fort 

Peruvian  Bark  (in  powder)  50 

Opium 10 

Camphor 10 

Calomel 5 

Corrosive  Sublimate 2 

Tfirtar  Emetic 2 

(.•amhnpo 2 

•^«1"P 10 

IlK.'cauanto 17 

Iihcubarh  (in  powder) 10 

Kino 15 

Colombo  (in  powder) 20 

Nitro  Crude 20 

Sweet  Spirits 40 

C.Iaubors  Salts 50 

Prepared  Cludk... 20 

Coaster  Oil 12 

Olive  Do 5 

(ium  Arabic 20 

AHume 5 

Accjuous 20 

Adlifsive  plaster 20 

I-'arloy 2 

Chocolate 300 

Tapioca 50 


Meigs,  June  30,  1813 

lb.              Blisting  Ointment 20 

lb.              Bees  Wax 20 

lb.             Mariated  Acid 4 

lb.              Sulphuric  Acid 4 

lb.              Nitric  do 4 

lb.             Vials 5 

lb.  Instruments- 
lb.              Amputation 3 

lb.              trepanning 3 

lb.             Pocket 3 

lb.             Cases  Scalpels No. 

lb.              Lancets 3 

lb.              Splints 12 

lb.              Sponge 7 

lb.  Muslin 1000 

lb.              Wine 200 

gal.            Brandy  or  Rum 100 

"               Vinegar 200 

lb.             Molasses 200 

CofTee 300 

lb.              IlysonTea 60 

lb.              Rice 5 

barl.          Sugar 6 

lb.              Sago 50 

lb. 

H.  Stanard 
Hospital  Surg.  Mate. 


lb. 
lb. 
lb. 
lb. 
lb. 
gross 

setts 

do 

do 

G 

doz. 

setts 

lb. 

yds. 

gals. 

do 


lb. 
lb. 
barrels 

lb. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        487 


R.  M.  Johnson  to  Harrison 

Camp  Mouth  Huron,  Ohio,  July  9th  1813  On  Lake  Erie 

Har.  Pa.  103-108 

Dr.  Sir: 

The  absence  of  the  Lt.  Cols,  and  2nd  Major  and  the  indis- 
position of  Major  [Duval]  Payne  prevents  me  from  waiting 
upon  you  personally  in  consequence  of  the  favor  I  have  just 
received  from  you.  You  have  the  evidence  of  the  resolution 
and  willingness  of  the  Mo.  Regt.  to  do  their  duty  and  what 
is  here  to  be  said  is  predicated  upon  the  situation  of  the  Mo. 
Regiment.  I  have  been  afraid  to  distress  the  officers  and  men 
of  this  Regt.  with  a  communication  of  the  contents  of  yours, 
untill  I  can  again  hear  from  you ;  after  faithfully  stating  facts 
which  cannot  be  entirely  known  to  you  much  less  could  the 
President  know  them  on  the  9th  June  when  he  gave  an  order 
to  the  War  Dept.  to  direct  the  march  of  this  Regt.  to  Kas- 
kaskias.  I  put  wholly  out  of  the  question  the  desire  of  the 
men  to  serve  under  you  personally  and  the  anxiety  of  assisting 
in  retaking  our  lost  territory  and  seeing  Maiden  fall.  These 
desires  and  anxieties,  however  to  be  indulged  among  friends 
in  social  life,  must  not  be  mentioned  against  a  military  order. 

Inability  to  comply  with  the  order  to  any  advantage  to  the 
Country  or  to  the  honor  of  the  Corps  is  alone  taken  as  the 
ground  for  a  wish  to  remain  on  this  station — the  difficulty  does 
not  exist  in  your  mind,  as  you  express  a  regret  of  the  necessity 
of  a  separation  from  your  command,  the  order  of  the  Presi- 
dent alone  will  create  the  doubt,  if  any,  what  course  ought 
to  be  pursued.  I  only  in  my  turn  regret  that  I  had  not  the 
speed  of  an  arrow  to  give  him  the  statement  I  am  now  mak- 
ing out  for  you.  That  great  and  good  man  would  not  hesi- 
tate one  second  to  comply  with  my  reasonable  wishes  With 
the  opportunity  now  offered  of  feeding  our  horses  on  grain 
and  good  grass  ten  days  is  the  earliest  possible  period  that 
the  Regiment  could  take  uj)  the  line  of  march  to  any  distant 
point  or  attempt  with  any  advantage  a  forced  march  a  shorter 
distance.  After  which,  commencing  the  march,  say  to  Kas- 
kaskias  at  least  400  miles  or  more  the  route  we  should  have 
to  go,  the  Regt.  could  not  average  more  than  15  miles  per  day, 
leaving  out  the  necessity  that  would  occasionally  occur  to  pre- 


488  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

vent  marching  every  day.  Say  30  days  to  travel  to  Kaskaskias 
It  wouki  then  require  at  least  15  or  20  days  upon  g'}-ain  and 
forage  to  fit  our  hoi'ses  for  active  service  U}3on  the  frontiers, 
or  into  the  enemies  country.  The  Regt.  would  then  ha^'e  been 
in  service  110  days  50  days  having  elapsed  leaving  20  days 
to  complete  the  term  of  service  for  which  they  engaged,  unless 
some  extraordinary  occurrences  should  make  it  indispcnsible 
to  remain  longer.  But  this  is  not  all ;  under  these  circum- 
stances we  should  not  get  to  Kaskaskia  more  than  400  horses, 
more  especially  if  I  leave  behind  Capt.  [Duval]  Payne's  Com- 
pany which  I  am  disposed  and  willing  to  do  if  left  to  me.  This 
Sir,  is  a  Regt.  for  which  I  stand  pledged  in  the  hou]-  of  peril, 
will  be  destroyed  and  rendered  totally  useless  to  their  beloved 
country,  to  say  nothing  of  the  prospects  which  now  opens  to 
them  in  this  quarter  of  usefulness  of  glory  and  honor.  But 
this  is  not  the  only  conti'ast.  By  remaining  at  Huron  ten  or 
15  days  feeding  our  Horses  on  grain  and  guarding  the  im- 
portant frontier  by  scouting  parties  daily  with  an  opportunity 
of  feeding  our  Horses  one  or  two  days  at  Lower  Sandusky  on 
grain  on  our  returning  the  same  opportunity  of  five  days  at 
Camp  Meigs  and  the  grain  is  all  purchased  and  the  Mounted 
Regt,  can  transport  it  to  those  places  then  and  in  that  case 
I  can  carry  to  Raison,  Brownstown,  Detroit,  Maiden  and  its 
vicinity  under  forced  marching  or  otherwise  between  800  and 
900  eflfective  men.  So  effective  that  they  shall  on  all  occa- 
sions drive  superior  numbers  of  the  enemy.  In  this  situation 
if  our  horses  should  fail  we  can  again  give  them  rest  while 
we  act  as  Infantry  corps  or  should  we  be  dismissed  having 
performed  our  duty  and  tour  our  horses  could  be  driven  to 
10  or  15  miles  a  day  homewards  without  loss  to  indigent  and 
patriotic  men  or  the  public  at  this  moment,  in  lost  and  dis- 
abled horses.  I  have  more  than  100  dismounted.  Arrange- 
ments have  been  made  by  new  purchases  &c.  to  keep  up  the 
strength  of  the  Regt.  leaving  a  few  men  to  search  for  lost 
Horses  at  different  points  and  to  take  care  of  the  Invalid 
horses,  which  can  be  saved  alone  by  this  plan.  Strange  as 
this  may  appear  I  have  in  nothing  exagerated.  If  the  oflicers 
collect  should  be  called  upon,  a  statement  more  unfavourable 
would  be  given.  In  the  revolving  seasons  of  20  years  per- 
haps no  spring  and  summer  could  have  been  so  unfavoui'able 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        489 

for  the  horses  of  a  Mo.  Regt.,  notwitlistaiiding  which  we 
avoided  no  duty;  Indeed  we  tliinlc  we  have  done  much  in 
frustrating  the  savages  in  their  designs  against  any  part  of 
our  extensive  frontier.  To  Fort  Wayne  from  the  point  of  our 
rendezvous  300  miles.  Our  Circuit  to  Lake  Michigan  about 
200  miles,  making  500.  To  Camp  Meigs  from  Fort  Wayne 
100  making  600  miles.  To  River  Raison  and  back  60  miles 
to  this  place  70  miles  making  total  of  at  least  730  miles  and 
this  is  the  50th  day  since  we  took  up  our  line  of  march;  and 
leaving  at  these  different  points  parts  of  the  Regt.  to  guard 
and  act  as  reconnoitring  parties  to  be  concentrated  when  or- 
dered. Altho  it  would  be  improper  for  one  in  my  situation 
to  say  anything  that  would  seem  to  insinuate  that  any  or- 
der from  a  superior  might  be  superceded  without  injurious 
consequences  still  it  is  not  improper  to  express  some 
consolation  in  a  Belief  from  recent  circumstances  and  infor- 
mation that  no  great  body  of  Indians  are  embodied  upon  the 
Frontiers  of  Indiana  and  Illinois  &c.  but  that  they  still  re- 
main in  the  circle  of  Brownstown,  Maiden  &c.  except  those 
who  have  scattered  off  into  small  parties  from  disaffection 
to  the  cause  of  G.  Britain  and  I  may  also  add  that  before 
this  Regiment  could  reach  Kaskaskias  I  hope  the  people  there 
will  be  rendered  still  more  secure  by  your  movements  and 
success  here.  If  the  Regt.  had  been  destined  to  Kaskaskias 
in  the  first  Instance,  no  service  would  have  been  more  ac- 
ceptable, except  a  wish  to  be  attached  to  this  part  of  the  N.  W. 
Army.  But  no  hesitation  would  have  been  manifested.  But 
imperious  circumstances,  made  it  highly  important  that  we 
should  take  the  route  to  Fort  Wayne,  then  to  this  place  and 
such  is  the  situation  of  the  Regt.  at  present  as  represented. 
I  hope  you  will  concur  with  me  in  seeing  the  evident  pro- 
priety and  equally  evident  necessity  of  our  remaining  on  this 
station  where  the  Regiment  can  be  of  some  service  to  the 
sacred  cause  in  which  we  are  all  engaged  upon  this  statment 
Dear  General  I  wish  you  to  detain  us  on  this  station,  and  send 
this  as  a  part  of  the  Reasons  why  you  have  done  so  or  leave 
to  me  the  entire  responsibility  of  remaining  or  of  marching 
to  Kaskaskias  undei*  existing  circumstances,  not  known  to  the 
President  when  he  gave  the  order.  If  ojie  or  the  other  should 
not  be  in  your  power,  I  shall  look  back  with  little  pleasure 

84—22664 


490  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

to  the  day  the  Regiment  was  ordered  to  take  np  arms  to  de- 
fend the  rights  nnd  honor  of  the  U.  States,  as  their  usefulness 
from  tills  time  must  be  destroyed  when  the  brightest  pros- 
pects opened  to  their  view. 
Your  friend  and  servt. 

R.  M.  Johnson  Col.  K.  M.  V. 
Genl.  Wm.  H.  Harrison 

N.  B.     I  wish  to  have  a  personal  interview  if  necessary. 

A  True  Copy 

John  O'Fallon  Aid  de  Camp 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No  73) 


Head  Quarters  Cleaveland  12th  July  18L3 

Har.  Pa.  108-110 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  from  Col. 
[R.  M.]  Johnson  [July  9  above]  from  the  tenor  of  this  letter 
and  the  information  I  have  received  from  other  sources  I  am 
inclined  to  believe  that  the  Col.  will  find  it  difficult  to  enforce 
obedience  to  the  order  for  marching  to  the  Illinois  Territory. 
I  have  directed  him  to  proceed  with  all  whose  horses  are  fit 
for  service  and  leave  the  rest  to  follow. 

By  a  private  letter  to  a  Gentleman  here  from  his  friend  in 
Erie  received  last  night  we  are  informed  that  our  vessels  are 
nearly  ready  to  sail,  but  the  Hands  to  man  them  have  not  ar- 
rived, and  that  the  probability  is  that  they  will  not  have  their 
compliment  before  the  first  of  August.  I  hope  and  believe 
however  that  the  writer  is  mistaken.  I  wait  with  anxiety  for 
private  information  from  Capt.  Perry.  I  beg  leave  to  recom- 
mend that  the  vessels  be  fully  manned.  The  expense  of  an 
extra  number  of  seamen  will  be  trifling  because  they  can  be 
dismissed  as  soon  as  our  command  of  the  Lakes  is  secured. 
Indeed  it  appears  to  me  that  a  consideration  of  this  kind  ought 
to  govern  on  all  our  preparations  for  the  reduction  of  Maiden. 
A  single  well  supported  efi'ort  will  be  sufficient.  That  place 
once  in  our  possession  and  the  naval  superiority  acquired, 
Mackinac  and  St.  Josephs  will  fall  of  course,  and  with  them 
every  vestage  of  Indian  war  will  vanish.  A  fourth  part  of 
the  force  necessary  for  the  conquest  will  be  sufiicicnt  to  hold 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        491 

these  posts  when  thej^  are  in  our  possession.     The  balance 
can  be  disbanded  or  employed  elsewhere. 

I  hope  that  Capt.  [James  R.]  Butler  may  have  forewarded 
before  this  a  g-eneral  monthly  return ;  he  was  directed  to  do  so 
without  sending-  it  to  me  to  avoid  delay. 

With  great  respect  and  consideration  I  have  the  honor  to  be 
Sir  your  humble  Servant 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Genl.  John  Ar^istrong  Secretary  of  War 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department,  July  14,  1813 

Hisloncal  Register  JII,  86 

Orders  have  been  sent  to  captain  Perry  to  communicate 
to  you  the  naval  movements  and  to  concei't  with  you  the  nec- 
essary co-operations. 

Of  the  militia,  you  are  authorized  to  take  what  in  your 
judgment  will  be  necessary.  Such  of  the  Kentucky  militia 
as  are  in  service  would  be  better  tlian  a  new  draft.  There  is 
(of  the  Pennsylvania  militia)  one  regiment  at  Erie  armed, 
equipped,  etc.  These  are  subjected  to  your  command.  [Ex- 
tract] 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  July  14th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  78 

Sir 

I  regret  that  tlie  Letter  ordering  Col.  [R.  M.]  Johnson  West- 
ward ever  reached  you.  Since  the  date  of  that  letter,  infor- 
mation has  been  received  that  the  whole  story  of  Dixon  and 
his  intention  of  attacking  St.  Louis  etc.  with  which  Governor 
Edwards  so  often  alarmed  himself  and  others  was  without 
foundation.  Relieving  that  the  Colonel's  expedition  toward 
Brownstown  would  have  put  him  out  of  the  reach  of  this  order 
and  knowing  that  your  opinion  resembled  my  own  in  relation 
to  the  western  combinations  of  Scioux  and  Foxes  &c.  &c.  I 
had  hoped  that  the  want  of  foundation  in  the  story  would 
have  reached  you  before  the  Colonel's  return,  and  fui-nished 
a  reason  for  delaying  the  execution  of  the  order.  Is  it  too 
late  yet  to  correct  this  error?     If  it  be  possible  it  ought  to  I)e 


492  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

done.  Johnson's  Regiment  would  be  useful  in  making  demon- 
strations by  land  while  you  go  by  water  for  protecting  the 
frontier  against  small  desultory  attacks. 

Major  General  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Major  J.  S.  Swearingen 

War  Department  July  14th  1S13 

Ear.  Pa.  79 

Sir: 

You  will  forwa]'d  to  lower  Sandusk^^  by  the  way  of  Cleve- 
land to  the  order  of  General  Harrison  two  of  the  large  Regi- 
mental Medicine  chests  which  have  been  deposited  at  Pitts- 
burg and  hospital  stores  conformably  to  the  inclosed  invoice. 

Major  J  [AMES]  S[trode]  Swearingen  D.  Q.  M.  Gr. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  July  14,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  SO 

Sir 

Tlie  medicines  in  deposit  at  Pittsburgh  are  put  up  in  chests, 
some  of  which  are  veiy  large.  One  of  these  or  tv/o  at  most 
would  be  quite  sufficient  for  the  intended  service  of  the  hos- 
pital. The  quarter  master  will  have  ordei's  to  forward  them 
and  a  quantity  of  hospital  stores.  During  your  last  cam- 
paign a  double  allowance  [not  completed] 

I\Iajor  Genl.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Governor  Shelby 

Head  Quartei's  L  Sandusky  20th  July  1813 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  li"  26 

My  dear  sir 

I  have  this  moment  received  a  letter  from  the  Secretaiy 
of  war  in  which  he  authorizes  me  to  call  from  the  neighboring 
states  such  numbers  of  militia  as  I  may  deem  I'cquisite  for  the 
ensuing  operation  against  upper  canjida.  It  was  originally  in- 
tended that  the  Army  should  consist  of  regular  troops  only,  ]}ut 
it  is  now  ascertained  that  the  coutemplatcd  number  cannot 
be  raised.  It  is  indeed  late  very  late  to  call  out  militia  but 
still  it  will  bo  better  to  do  this  than  enter  into  opej'ation  upon 


HARRISON:     :\rESSAGES  AND  LETTERS         193 

which  so  much  depends  with  an  inadequate  force.  - 1  am  not 
uninformed  of  the  present  indisposition  to  the  service  which 
begins  to  prevail  in  Kentucky  and  the  difficulties  w^hich  your 
Excellency,  may  have  to  cncouiiter  to  organize  another  de- 
tachment of  mihtia  I  believe  ho^^■ever  it  will  not  be  impossible 
for  you  to  reanimate  your  patriotic  fellow^  citizens  and  once 
nioi'e  to  bring"  a  portion  of  them  to  the  field,  what  that  portion 
will  be,  your  own  Judgment  nmst  determine.  I  have  sent 
j\Iajor  [David]  Trimble  my  aid  de  camp  to  you  to  inform  you 
of  many  circumstances  which  I  have  not  time  nor  indeed  would 
I  like  to  commit  to  paper — send  me  as  many  good  men  as  you. 
can  conveniently  collect  or  as  you  may  deem  proper  to  call  out 
not  less  than  four  Jw.ndred  nor  more  than  itvo  tJiouscnd.  The 
jjcriod  has  arrived  when  with  a  little  exertion  the  task  as- 
signed to  this  section  of  the  union  may  be  finished,  and  com- 
plete tranquility  restored  to  our  frontiers.  To  make  this  last 
effort  why  not,  my  dear  sir,  come  in  person,  you  would  not 
object  to  a  command  that  would  be  nominal  only — I  have  such 
confidence  in  your  wisdom  that  you  in  fact  should  "be  the 
guiding  Head  and  I  the  hand."  The  situation  you  would  be 
placed  in  is  not  without  its  parallel.  Scipio  the  conqueror  of 
Carthage  did  not  disdain  to  act  as  a  Lieutenant  of  his  younger 
and  less  experienced  brother  Lucius.  I  refer  you  to  I\Iajor 
Trimble  who  is  instructed  to  communicate  many  particulars 
to  you. 

With  regard  and  respect 

I  am  Dr  Sir 

WiLLiAiM  Henry  Harrison 

His  Excellency  Govr.  Isaac  Shelby 
Frankfort  (Ky) 

Green  Clay  to  Harrlson 

Camp  Meigs  July  22nd  1S13 

Har.  Pa.  119 

Dear  Genl: 

We  have  no  certain  intcligence  as  to  the  number  of  the 
enemy.  From  appearance  vre  expect  their  number  of  regular 
troops  and  militia  to  exceed  2000  of  the  number  of  Indians  we 
have  no  criterion  to  judge  except  that  of  their  former  forces. 

They  have  not  yet  opened  their  Batteries  upon  us — but  v.-e 


:>sm 


494  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

hourly  expect  it  and  are  fully  prepared  to  meet  them  in  any 
maimer  they  may  make  the  attack. 

Our  troops  are  in  high  spirits  and  most  woefully  will  the 
enemy  be  deceived  in  their  anticipations  of  conquest. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  sentiments  of  the  highest  esteem 
and  respect  your  obt.  servt. 

(Signed)  GREEN  Clay 

Major  Genl.  Harrison 

A  True  Copy 

John  O'Fallon  Aid  de  Camp 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No  74) 


Head  Quarters  Lower  Sandusky  23rd  July  1813 

Har.  Pa.  112-115 

Sir: 

Fort  Meigs  is  actually  invested  by  the  enemy  an  express 
arrived  here  last  evening  with  the  information.  The  British 
and  Indians  appeared  to  be  in  considerable  force.  They  were 
not  discovered  untill  the  morning  of  the  21st  when  they  fired 
upon  a  party  that  was  leaving  the  Fort  and  killed  6.  The 
express  says  that  the  British  were  erecting  batteries  on  the 
opposite  bank  and  the  Indians  occupying  the  wood  around  the 
Fort  from  whence  they  kept  up  through  the  day  a  warm  fire 
on  the  Fort  doing  however  no  injuiy.  The  post  is  in  every 
respect  in  a  better  situation  for  defence  than  it  was  when  be- 
sieged before,  it  has  Col.  [William  P.]  Anderson  Col.  [Ed- 
mund Pendleton]  Gains  and  300  picked  men  of  the  24th  Regt. 
They  have  76  or  80  181b.  shot  less  than  at  the  commencement 
of  the  former  attack  but  more  than  double  the  number  of  121b. 
shot  and  5  p.  inch  shells  61b  shot  and  case  and  grape  in  abun- 
dance the  latter  of  every  size  together  with  270  241b.  shot 
which  suits  the  calibre  of  our  Howitzers  and  serve  well  for 
Racochet  firing. 

I  have  with  me  here  about  300  effective  Regulars  and  a  few 
worthless  militia  whom  I  was  upon  the  point  of  discharging. 
I  shall  leave  Major  [George]  Croghan  here  with  a  sufficient 
Garrison  and  with  the  ballance  take  a  position  at  the  old 
Seneca  Town  nine  miles  higher  up  the  River  on  the  road  to 
Upper  Sandusky,  the  distance  from  that  place  to  Fort  jMeigs 
is  precisely  the  same  as  from  here,  and  from  thence  or  further 


-T-THiimiiTiiiri 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        495 

on  towards  Upper  Sandusky  will  be  the  only  route  to  approach 
Fort  Meigs  with  a  probability  of  reaching  it  undiscovered.  A 
swamp  of  30  miles  intervenes  to  which  there  is  nothing  to  be 
compared  even  in  this  generally  swampy  country.  It  is  at 
this  moment  nearly  half  leg  deep  in  mud  and  water  through- 
out. Three  hundred  and  forty  or  fifty  men  of  the  27th  Regt. 
are  between  this  place  and  Upper  Sandusky — Col.  [Thomas 
Deye]  Owings  with  500  of  the  28th  Regt.  must  be  near  to 
Franklinton.  I  have  sent  after  Col.  [R.  M.]  Johnson,  he  may 
be  overtaken  at  Urbanna  but  the  greater  part  of  his  men  will 
have  scattered  and  gone  off  to  Ky.  after  fresh  horses.  The 
prospect  of  assembling  a  sufficient  force  to  raise  the  siege  in 
a  short  time  is  gloomy.  However  doubt  not,  I  pray  you,  of 
my  utmost  exertions.  You  will  have  heard  of  the  Blockade 
of  Erie  could  the  fleet  but  get  out  and  be  able  to  drive  off  that 
of  the  enemy  Maiden  might  fall  and  the  return  of  Proctor  in- 
tercepted. He  has  with  him  Gun  Boats  and  small  crafts  only. 
I  could  engage  to  succeed  with  the  few  Troops  I  have  in  any 
enterprize  rather  than  the  defeating  four  times  their  number 
of  Indians  in  the  Black  Swamp.  It  is  not  the  least  of  my 
embarrassments  to  know  what  to  do  with  the  Sandusky  In- 
dians. 60  of  these  are  now  here  to  offer  their  services.  The 
professions  of  the  greater  part  are  I  fear  hollow  and  made 
under  the  belief  of  the  prosperous  state  of  our  affairs.  The 
least  disaster  will  I  fear  discover  that  their  Hearts  are  not 
with  us.  The  Shawanese  have  lately  given  a  striking  proof 
of  their  fidelity  which  I  have  not  now  time  to  explain.  A  few 
of  the  Delawares  are  our  friends  one  of  them  put  to  death  a 
few  days  ago,  an  Indian  of  the  name  of  Blue  Jacket  who  was 
coming  here  to  assassinate  me  and  then  escape  to  the  enemy. 
I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Yr.  Humble 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  Genl.  Jopin  Armstrong  Secretary  of  War 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No  75) 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Towns  9  miles  from  L.  Sandusky 

24th  July  1813 

^  Har.  Pa.  116-118 

Mr.  [William]  Oliver,  who  set  out  from  Fort  Meigs  in  the 


rTiMiimrinnitiw 


496  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

nip:ht  between  the  21st  and  22nd  a  few  hou]'s  after  the  express 
messenger  mentioned  in  my  last,  met  me  yestei'day  morning 
on  the  march  to  this  place  and  last  evening-  tlie  enclosed  letter 
[July  22  above]  From  Genl.  [Green]  Clay  was  broiiglit  to  me 
by  a  Sergeant  who  left  the  Fort  at  11  o'clock  the  preceding 
night.  An  intelligent  young  gentleman  a  private  iii  the  Pe- 
tersburgh  volunteers,  accompanied  the  sergeant.  From  all  of 
these  persons  I  have  ]'eceived  the  satisfactory  informatiori 
that  the  Health  of  the  Troops  at  Fort  IMeigs  was  most  wonder- 
fully restored  before  the  appearance  of  the  enemy.  That  the 
lines  are  well  manned  and  the  whole  of  [Col.  William  P.]  An- 
dei'son's  Regiment  (300  choice  men)  left  as  a  disposable  force 
when  the  Sergeant  left  the  garrison  it  was  not  ascertained 
that  the  enemy  had  erected  or  were  erecting  any  Batteries. 
The  cannonading  was  continued  at  intervals  through  the 
whole  of  yesterday  and  as  I  had  supposed  untill  11  o'clock  last 
night  but  one  of  my  parties,  who  were  last  night  at  Portage 
River  are  of  opinion  that  what  we  heai'd  here  was  thunder, 
not  a  gun  has  been  heard  today.  I  have  two  parties  of  In- 
dians, accompanied  each  by  a  person  whom  I  can  depend  upon 
now  out  for  the  purpose  of  approaching  the  Fort  as  near  as 
possible  and  taking  a  prisoner.  If  the  object  of  the  enemy  is 
the  attacking  of  Fort  Winchester  and  Wayne  I  have  not  the 
means  of  preventing  their  success,  but  their  safe  retreat  will 
be  more  jeopardised  than  Genl.  [Henry]  Proctor  will  (as  I 
would  suppose)  be  willing  to  risk  for  the  object  to  be  gained 
by  taking  them.  His  appearing  before  Fort  i\Ieigs  may  have 
been  intended  to  draw  our  attention  and  forces  to  that  quar- 
ter whilst  his  real  object  is  to  attack  Lower  Sandusky  or 
Cleaveland,  he  former  place  is  untenable  there  is  nothing  in 
it  of  any  value  but  two  hundred  barrels  of  Flour  and  I  have 
made  arrangements  for  withdrawing  the  garrison  and  leaving 
the  Fort.  Another  project  of  Genl.  Proctors  may  be  to  dravr 
me  into  the  Black  Swamp  and  overwhelm  me  with  his  Indians. 
IIl)on  the  whole  I  have  little  apprehension  for  the  safety  of 
Fort  ]\reigs.  Nothing,  however,  shall  be  neglected  to  ascertain 
its  security.  Should  it  appear  to  be  in  danger  before  I  am 
enabled  to  collect  a  sufhcient  force  to  meet  the  enemy  in  the 
field  I  will  endeavour  to  break  through  them  with  two  or  three 
hundred  picked  men. 

]\Iajor  [Levi]  Hukill  is  endeavoring  to  prepare  for  a  com- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        497 

plcte  muster  and  Inspection  of  the  army  at  the  close  of  the 
month,  should  our  situation  allow  it.  The  Task  is  not  an  easy 
one  from  the  neglect,  inexperience  and  ignorance  of  many  of 
the  officers.  Should  the  President  think  proper  to  allow  me 
an  Inspector  Genl.  I  could  wish  that  Major  Hukill  could  re- 
ceive the  appointment,  and  Capt.  [James  R.]  Butler  that  of 
Assistant.  I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  Sir 
Your  Obt.  servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honble.  John  Armstrong,  Esq. 

Col.  Wm.  Russel  to  Governor  Thomas  Posey 

ViNCENNES,  July  25,  1813 
Niles'  Register  V  9 

Sir: 

I  have  completed  my  intended  scout,  and  reached  every 
point  of  destination,  and  arrived  at  this  place  in  four  weeks. 
On  our  route  we  had  much  rainy  weather  and  consequently 
high  waters,  which  destroyed  much  of  our  provisions,  and 
made  the  route  much  more  disagreeable  than  otherwise  it 
would  have  been.  The  route  from  this  place  until  we  returned 
amounts  to  upwards  of  500  miles,  the  gi-eater  part  of  which  is 
certainly  equal  (if  not  superior)  to  any  tracts  of  country  upon 
the  western  v/aters;  all  of  which  lies  in  your  territory.  We 
proceeded  from  Vallonia  to  the  Delaware  to^vns,  from  thence 
to  the  Mississinawa  towns,  there  we  found  four  or  five  distinct 
villages ;  one  pretty  strongly  fortified,  adjoining  which  a  very 
considerable  encampment  of  Indiaiis  had  been  kept  up,  all  of 
which  we  destroyed.  We  supposed  the  Indians  had  evacuated 
those  towns  very  early  in  the  spring.  From  thence  we  pro- 
ceeded do\vn  the  Wabash  to  Eel  river  town,  froin  thence  to 
Winemack  village,  from  thence  to  the  Prophet's  town,  from 
thence  we  re-crossed  the  Wabash,  and  took  the  Winebagoe 
town  in  our  route  to  Fort  Harrison.  We  went  to  every  place 
where  we  could  expect  to  fall  in  with  the  enemy  (that  our  sit- 
uation would  justify)  as  our  provisions  were  then  very  short 
and  our  horses  much  fatigued. 

I  had  a  part  of  six  companies  of  rangers  and  a  few  volun- 
teers from  the  territory,  and  was  joined  by  one  hundred  vol- 
unteers of  Kentucky — when  I  found  our  force  was  573  ef- 
fective men.    The  army  marched  in  five  distinct  columns,  with 


498  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

instructions  how  the  front  the  rear  and  the  flanks  were  to  act 
in  case  of  an  attack  on  either.  The  right  flank  was  com- 
manded by  general  Cox  of  the  Kentucky  vohmteers  the  ex- 
treme left  v,-as  commanded  by  Col.  [Robert]  Evans,  of  the 
Indiana  territory  the  other  column  on  the  right  was  com- 
manded by  general  Thomas  of  the  Kentucky  volunteers,  the 
other  column  on  the  left  commanded  by  col.  [Walter]  Wilson 
of  this  territory,  and  the  centre  by  maj.  Z.  Taylor  of  the  U. 
S.  army;  all  those  officers  discovered  so  much  zeal  for  the  suc- 
cess of  the  expedition,  as  convinced  me  they  would  have  done 
themselves  credit  had  we  encountered  the  enemy.  Col. 
[Joseph]  Bartholomew  acted  as  my  aid-de-camp;  this  veteran 
has  been  so  well  tried  in  this  kind  of  warfare,  that  any  en- 
comiums from  me  would  be  useless,  major  John  Allen  from 
Kentucky,  acted  as  quarter-master,  Mr.  Hancock  Taylor,  as 
quartermaster  sergt.  maj.  Harden  acted  as  adjutant,  and 
Homer  Jolinson  [Knox  Co.]  of  the  rangers  as  his  assistant.  All 
those  gentlemen  acted  with  such  promptitude  as  gave  me  but 
little  trouble,  and  that  only  to  check  their  zeal  on  certain  oc- 
casions, gen.  Clever  of  Kentucky,  commanded  the  advanced 
party,  and  acquitted  himself  much  to  my  satisfaction.  I  find 
also  in  the  Kentucky  corps  several  professional  and  other 
characters  of  high  standing — which  are  deserving  of  their 
country ;  from  the  zeal  of  the  officers  and  privates  I  entertain 
great  hopes  that  they  will  render  considerable  service  to  their 
country.  The  volunteers  from  the  territory  were  principally 
men  of  experience  in  Indian  warfare,  consequently  capable 
of  rendering  services. 

I\Iessrs.  [Joseph]  Barron  and  [Pierre]  Laplant,  your  In- 
dian interpreters,  accompanied  us  as  guides,  assisted  by  lieut. 
[Hyacinthe]  Lasselle,  who  were  ahvays  on  the  alert,  and  dis- 
charged the  duties  assigned  them  with  great  promptitude. 

Such  was  the  disposition  of  the  army,  and  happy  should  I 
have  been  could  they  have  had  an  opportunity  of  realizing  the 
high  expectations  I  entertained  of  them. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  with  high  respect,  your  obedient 
servant. 

William  Russell 

P.  S.  Col.  Bartholomew  and  lieut.  [Joseph]  Shields  (of 
captain  Peyton's  company  of  rangers)  volunteered  and 
crossed  thi'ough  the  country  from  below  the  Prophet's  to^\Ti 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        499 

to  the  Ohio,  in  two  places;  from  this  you  will  discover,  that 
the  country  has  been  completely  chequered  in  all  directions — 
and  strange  to  tell,  saw  no  fresh  sign  of  Indians. 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
Head  Quarters  Lower  Sandusky  25th  July  1813 

.     HoA'.  Pa.  Ill 

Sir: 

Lieut.  [David]  Gwynne  late  paymaster  of  the  19th  Regi- 
ment having  expressed  a  great  anxiety  to  have  his  accounts 
settled  I  have  directed  him  to  repair  to  Washington  for  that 
purpose.  I  have  before  mentioned  this  young  officer  to  you, 
for  gallantrj^  honour  and  correctness  of  conduct  he  is  not  ex- 
celled by  any  officer  in  the  service. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  high  Respect  Sir  Your  Humble 
Svt  WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

The  Honble  Genl.  John  Armstrong  Secretary  of  War     < 

Green  Clay  to  Harrison 

Camp  Meigs  July  26th  1813 

Ha7\  Pa.  120,  121 

Dear  Genl. 

We  are  still  surrounded  by  the  enemy.  They  have  not  as 
yet  opened  their  artillery  upon  us. 

Their  principal  force  remained  at  the  old  garrison  and  near 
their  former  encampment  from  the  20th  until  the  23rd  when 
I  sent  a  corps  of  observation  from  the  garrison  and  I  recon- 
noitred around  and  within  view. 

This  movement  was  observed  by  the  enemy  and  a  consider- 
able number  of  their  forces  crossed  the  River  and  were  in  a 
few  minutes  around  us  firing  small  arms  which  done  no  in- 
jury. 

On  the  24th  their  whole  forces  crossed  over  to  this  side 
where  they  remained  encamped  but  in  what  particular  posi- 
tion we  have  not  yet  ascertained. 

Their  vessels  are  sometimes  in  view  crossing  and  recrossing 
below. 

This  evening  they  gave  us  a  sham  battle  amongst  themselves 
along  the  trace  and  nearly  in  view ;  no  doubt  to  decoy  us  out. 
Our  Troops  paraded  to  make  the  Battle  a  real  one.    The  move- 


500  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ments  of  the  enemy  are  somewhat  misterious.  Experience  has 
already  proven  to  them  that  any  attempt  on  this  post  would 
be  vain  make  it  when  and  in  what  wa\'  they  will  and  most 
woefully  will  they  repent  their  temerity.  Our  troops  are  in 
fine  health  and  spirits  and  anxiously  await  another  oppor- 
tunity to  distinguish  themselves. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  the  highest  esteem  your  Ob.  Svt. 

(Signed)     Green  Clay 
]\Iajor  Genl.  William  H.  Harrison  Com(j.  the  N.  W.  Anny 
(A  true  copy)    J.  0' Fallon  A.  D.  C. 

Green  Clay  to  Harrison 

Camp  Meigs  July  28,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  125,  12>j 

Dear  Genl. 

The  enemy  occupied  their  encampment  on  this  side  of  the 
river  below  us  until  this  morning.  When  with  great  pre- 
cipitation they  set  sail  from  the  hrst  bend  below.  They  were 
in  full  view  and  displayed  two  schooners  and  about  one  hun- 
dred and  fifty  sail.    Small  craft  apparently  all  filled  with  men. 

The  Indians  have  been  rapidly  going  down  on  the  opposite 
shore  nearly  all  day.  They  were  principally  mounted  and 
about  400  in  number. 

It  was  said  by  an  officer  that  about  20  cannon  shot  from  the 
Lake  was  heard  just  before  their  departure. 

Whether  they  have  actually  abandoned  all  idea  of  attacldng 
this  post,  or  what  are  their  views  I  can  form  no  conjecture. 

So  far  from  lulling  us  into  security  their  recent  movemerxt 
has  increased  (if  possible)  our  vigilance. 

The  troops  here  continue  in  good  health  and  spirits  and 
never  did  soldiers  more  vigilantly  watch  or  anxiously  wait  the 
approach  of  ^aiy  enemy.  Several  of  the  oflicers  who  were  here 
during  the  former  siege  deem  the  number  of  the  enemy  con- 
siderably greater  now  than  was  brought  against  you. 

Be  assured  Sir  whatever  may  be  their  designs  they  never 
-will  subdue  this  post  with  even  double  the  numbers  they  have 
this  day  presented  to  our  view.  I  have  the  honor  to  be  with 
the  highest  Sentiments  of  Respect  &  Esteem  Your  Obt.  Sevt. 

Green  Clay 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        501 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  76) 

Head  Quarters  Senaca  Towns  9  miles  above  Lower 

Sandusky  28th  July  1813 

Har.  Pa.  122-1 2U 

Sir: 

Capt.  McCune  of  the  Ohio  Militia  whom  I  sent  from  this 
place  on  the  25th  to  endeavour  to  penetrate  to  Fort  Lleigs  re- 
turned last  evening  with  the  enclosed  letter  from  Gen.  [Green] 
Clay,  [see  July  28,  above]  Capt.  McCune  gives  me  such  an 
account  of  the  state  of  the  works  and  garrison  as  to  leave  no 
room  for  apprehension  for  its  safety  unless  indeed  they  should 
be  weak  enough  to  suffer  themselves  to  be  decoyed  into  the 
woods  by  the  strategems  of  the  enemy-.  It  was  extremely  for- 
tunate that  Capt.  McCune  got  into  the  Fort  on  the  morning 
of  the  26th  as  it  is  more  than  probable  that  a  sally  in  force 
would  have  been  made  for  the  assistance  of  their  supposed 
friends.  I  am  under  apprehensions  for  Fort  Winchester.  I 
have  not  yet  heard  from  the  Officer  whom  I  sent  to  watch  the 
movements  of  the  enemy  in  that  direction. 

Since  I  had  the  Honor  to  address  you  I  have  been  joined 
by  Colo.  [George]  PauU  with  350  effectives  of  the  27th  reg. 
and  150  Dragoons  under  Lt.  Col.  [James  V.]  Ball,  unfortun- 
ately ten  of  the  officers  of  the  former  Regiment  and  nearly 
one  third  of  the  men  are  prisoners  of  war;  of  the  two  com- 
panies of  the  26th  that  I  have  with  me  Capt.  [William  Henry] 
Puthuff  (an  officer  that  would  do  honor  to  any  service)  one 
of  his  subalterns  and  more  than  one  third  of  the  Company 
are  in  the  same  situation.  Col.  [Thomas  D.]  Owings  with  his 
Regt.  left  Franklinton  on  the  25th,  one  would  suppose  that 
our  officers  had  learned  their  tactics  from  the  maxims  of 
Augustus  and  that  the  *S'?;e?t  de  Bradoes  [make  haste  slowly] 
of  which  he  was  so  fond,  governed  them  in  all  their  move- 
ments. A  very  large  body  of  the  enemy's  Indians  are  mounted 
fearing  that  by  a  rapid  march  they  might  tui'n  my  left  and 
reach  Upper  Sandusky  I  have  directed  Col.  Owings  to 
strengthen  the  garrison  with  50  men.  I  keep  the  country  to 
the  westward  as  far  as  Hulls  road  well  reconnoitred.  The 
Indians  cannot  take  Sandusky  and  if  the  British  should  at- 
tempt it  they  shall  have  reason  to  I'epent  it.  I  hear  nothing 
since  my  last  from  Capt.  [Oliver  II.]  Perry.    I  cannot  make  a 


502  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

selection  of  Sergcante  or  Ensigns  untill  the  communication 
with  Fort  oMoigs  is  opened — in  the  mean  time  permit  me  to 
recommend  Lieut.  ]Major  James  ]McQuire  of  the  19th  Infy. 

There  are  several  of  this  grade  that  will  bear  promotion 
and  more  amongst  the  Volunteers.  Shall  I  have  the  privilege 
of  appointing  some  of  these  pro  fern  pore?  It  is  much  to  be 
regretted  that  Capt.  Jas.  Butler  who  commands  the  Pittsburgh 
Blues  had  not  made  known  his  wishes  for  an  appointment  in 
the  Regular  Service  earlier.  He  is  the  son  of  the  late  Genl. 
Richard  Butler.  The  British  Army  has  not  a  more  accom- 
plished Capt.  should  there  be  an  original  vacancy  of  ]\Iajor 
or  Capt.  or  even  of  Col.  the  public  interests  would  be  served 
by  giving  it  to  him.  Why  not  in  the  26th  and  endeavour  to 
fill  it  up  in  the  upper  part  of  Pennsylvania. 

With  great  respect  I  have  the  Honor  to  be  Sir  your  Hubl.  Svt 

WiLLJ^i.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  Genl.  JoiiN  Art^istrong  Secretary  of  War 

-Harrison  to  Croghan 

July  29,  .1813 

McAfee,  History,  S22 

Sm: 

Immediately  on  receiving  this  letter,  you  will  abandon  fort 
Stephenson,  set  fire  to  it,  and  repair  with  your  command  this 
night  to  head  quarters.  Cross  the  river  and  come  up  on  the 
opposite  side.  If  you  should  deem  and  find  it  impracticable 
to  make  good  your  march  to  this  place,  take  the  road  to  Huron 
and  pursue  it  with  the  utmost  circumspection  and  despatch. 

Secretary  of  \Yai\  to  Harrison 

War  Department  July  29th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  SI 

Sir: 

Herewith  inclosed  you  will  receive  a  comnnmication  from 
the  Executive  of  Kentucky  transmitted  through  tlieir  delega- 
tion in  Congress. 

The  subject  has  been  before  you  and  you  will  please  to 
direct  a  settlement  of  all  the  just  claims  of  the  militia  for  re- 
tained rations,  and  authorize  the  proper  agent  to  draw  on 
this  Dept.  for  such  expenditures.    Where  abstracts  were  fur- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        503 

iiished  to  the  Contractor  for  such  retained  rations  the  amount 
due  the  troops  is  chargeable  to  him,  an  account  of  which 
should  be  immediately  transmitted  to  this  Department, 
Llajor  General  Harrison,  Cleveland 

Croghan  to  Harrison 

July  30,  1813 

McAfee,  History,  323 

Sir: 

I  have  just  received  yours  of  yesterday,  10  o'clock  P.  M. 
ordering  me  to  destroy  this  place  and  make  good  my  retreat, 
which  was  received  too  late  to  be  carried  into  execution.  We 
have  determined  to  maintain  this  place,  and  by  heavens  we 
can. 

Harrison  to  Croghan 

July  30,  1813 

Dawson,  Harrison,  U02-3 

Sir: 

The  General  has  just  received  your  letter  of  this  date,  in- 
forming him  that  you  had  thought  proper  to  disobey  the  order 
issued  from  this  office,  and  delivered  to  you  this  morning.  It 
appears  that  the  information  which  dictated  the  order  was 
incorrect;  and  as  you  did  not  receive  it  in  the  night,  as  was 
expected,  it  might  have  been  proper  that  you  should  have  re- 
ported the  circumstance  and  your  situation,  before  you  pro- 
ceeded to  its  execution.  This  might  have  been  passed  over, 
but  I  am  directed  to  say  to  you,  that  an  officer  who  presumes 
to  aver,  that  he  has  made  his  resolution,  and  that  he  will  act 
in  direct  opposition  to  the  orders  of  his  General,  can  no  longer 
be  entrusted  with  a  separate  conmiand.  Colonel  [Samuel] 
Wells  is  sent  to  relieve  you.  You  will  deliver  the  command  to 
him,  and  repair  with  colonel  [James  V.]  Ball's  squadron  to 
this  place.    By  command,  etc. 

A.  H.  Homes,  Aast.  Adj.  General 

Shelby  to  Colonels  A  to  Z  Ky.  Militia 

Frankfort,  July  31st,  1813 

McAfee,  History,  336 

Dear  Sir: 
The  following  address  to  the  militia  of  Kentucky  will  in- 


501  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

form  you  of  the  call  that  has  been  made  upon  the  governor  of 
Kentuckj'  for  a  reinforcement  to  the  novthwestern  army;  and 
of  my  views  as  to  the  mode  of  complying  with  it.  I  forward 
one  to  you  particularly,  sir,  under  the  hope  that  you  will  exert 
your  influence  to  bring  into  the  field  all  the  men  in  your  power. 
Be  so  good  as  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  this  letter,  and 
apprize  me  of  the  calculations  which  I  may  make  of  the  num- 
ber of  men  that  can  be  raised  in  your  county  and  whether  it 
will  suit  your  convenience  to  go  with  us.  I  shall  at  all  times 
take  a  pleasure  in  acknowledging  the  public  spirit  by  which 
you  will  be  actuated  and  the  obligations  you  will  lay  me  under. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully,  sir,  Your  obt. 
servant,  Isaac  Shelby 

Shelby  to  Militia 

Frankfort,  July  31st,  1813 

McAfee,  History,  337 

Fellow  Soldiers: 

Your  government  has  taken  measures  to  act  effectually 
against  the  enemy  in  Upper  Canada.  General  Harrison,  un- 
der the  authority  of  the  president  of  the  United  States,  has 
called  upon  me  for  a  strong  body  of  troops  to  assist  in  effect- 
ing the  grand  objects  of  the  campaign.  The  enemy  in  hopes 
to  find  us  unprepared,  has  again  invested  fort  Meigs;  but  he 
will  again  be  mistaken ;  and  before  you  can  take  the  field  he 
will  be  driven  from  that  post. 

To  comply  with  the  requisition  of  general  Harrison,  a  draft 
might  be  enforced;  but  believing  as  I  do,  that  the  ardor  and 
patriotism  of  my  countrymen  has  not  abated,  and  that  they 
have  waited  with  impatience  a  fair  opportunity  of  avenging 
the  blood  of  their  butchered  friends,  I  have  appointed  the 
31st  day  of  August,  next,  at  Newport,  for  a  genei'al  rendez- 
vous of  Kentucky  Volunteers.  I  will  meet  you  there  in  person. 
I  will  lead  you  to  the  field  of  the  battle,  and  share  with  you 
the  dangers  and  honors  of  the  campaign.  Our  sei-viccs  will 
not  be  required  more  than  sixty  days  after  we  reach  headquar- 
ters.' 

I  invite  all  officers,  and  others  possessing  influence,  to  come 
foi'ward  with  what  mounted  men  they  can  raise;  each  shall 
command  the  men  he  may  bring  into  the  field.  The  supt-rior 
officers  will  be  appointed  by  myself  at  the  place  of  general 


HAEKIiriON:     I\1ESSAGKS  AND  LETTERS        505 

nni(l(z\ous,  oi'  on  our  ai."i"iv;il  at  1)^  adquariert;:  and  X  >s]iali 
t:ii:c  plc^isurc  in  acIinowicut'TDj^'-  to  niy  country  the  merits  and 
laiblic  spirit  of  tliose  who  may  b(^  u:-.cliil  in  collectini.;  a  force 
for  the  present  emergency. 

Tlio.se  Vv'ivo  liave  s'()od  j'jiles,  and  luie.y  liov;  to  use  them,  \\'il] 
!  ring'  tliej"'!  alonjj;.  Those  wlu)  have  not,  v;ih  be  furnished 
\vit])  m;;sket>.  at  Newjiort. 

FeL' ■'•:'.  Citizen!  No^v  is  the  i.i:ne  to  ael ;  and  by  one  de- 
cisive b'   •\',  put  an  end  to  tlie  contest  iri  tliat  quarter. 

Isaac  Shelby 

Shelby  to  Secretary  of  War 

Frankfort,  August  1,  1813 

Hisiorical  Register  III,  9/j. 
SlK  : 

A  fevv  days  ago  I  was  honoured  y/iih.  a  letter  from  general 
Harrison  under  date  of  the  20th  ultrmo,  [see  above]  by  his 
aid-de-carrrp  [Cob  Allen]  Trimble.  I))  it  he  says,  that  "he  had 
just  received  a  letter  from  the  secretary  at  war  authorizing 
him  to  call  from  the  neighbouring  states  such  numbers  of 
militia  as  he  might  deera  requisite  for  the  O'lsuing  operations 
against  Upper  Canada."  In  pursuance  of  thrd.  p0Y\^er,  he  has 
made  a  requisition  on  the  govei'nment  of  Kerducky  for  rein- 
forcements, and  has  referred  me  to  J\'Iajor  Tri;nble  for  infor- 
mation, etc.  and  lias  in  warm  terms  solicited  my  taking  the 
field  in  pei'son.  Much  delay  would  have  been  the  inevitable 
consequence  of  ordering  out  the  militia  as  infantry  in  the 
ordinary  inode,  by  draft.  As  mounted  volunteer; ,.  a  competent 
force  can,  i  feel  confideni,  be  eas!:,  raised.  T  have  therefor': 
appointed  the  31st  of  this  month,  at  Newport,  in  this  state, 
for  a  general  rendezvous  of  mounted  volunteei's. 

I  have  the  honour  of  inclosing  for  the  information  of  the 
president  a  cojsy  of  my  address  [see  above]  to  the  militia  of 
this  state  on  ihe  occasion. 

The  jn'O'pc;  '  c>f  acting  e(neien|iy  against  Upper  Canada 
v.'ill,  I  have  rio  iiou.bt,  call  foidh  a  lirge  force  to  our  standard, 
and  they  will  1)0  immediately  nuiv  hod  to  tlie  head-quarto3'S 
of  the  north ~v»  ••stern  army,  in  su(  ii  bodies  as  will  best  facili- 
tate their  movements;  when  tlKne  they  can  act  as  foot  or 
mounted,  as  circumstances  ma>y  rctiuij-c. 

!   'viall  \nk('  gr'.'at  pleasure  to  hmi'  IVom  the  president  on 


506  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

tliis  subject  previous  to  my  departure  from  this  place,  and  I 
request  the  favour  of  you  to  lay  this  letter  immediately  be- 
fore him  for  his  consideration,  and  that  you  will  be  pleased 
to  apprise  me  of  the  result  by  the  earliest  conveyance. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  most  respectfully,  your  obedient 
servant,  Isaac  Shelby 

The  honourable  the  Secretary  of  War 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

(No.  77) 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Towns 

9  miles  above  L.  Sandusky  1st  Aug.  1813 

Ha/r.  Pa.  127-120 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  letter  received  the  evening 
before  the  last  from  Genl.  [Green]  Clay  communicating  the 
departure  of  the  enemy  from  before  Fort  Meigs,  [see  July  28 
above]  I  have  not  yet  been  able  to  ascertain  whether  the 
British  Troops  and  the  main  body  of  their  allies  have  returned 
to  Maiden,  or  whether  they  still  hover  on  the  southern  shore 
of  the  Lake,  with  a  design  to  attempt  some  other  enterprise. 
Since  the  morning  of  the  29th  the  latter  have  so  swarmed 
in  the  woods  around  us  as  to  leave  me  for  sometime  little 
doubt  of  an  intended  attack  upon  Lower  Sandusky  or  this 
place  and  I  suppose  that  the  British  were  coming  up  the  San- 
dusky Bay  and  River.  The  parties  which  I  have  sent  to  the 
Lake  have  not  yet  returned.  As  the  wind  has  been  favourable 
and  the  enemy  were  not  near  Sandusky  this  morning  I  con- 
clude that  they  have  sought  their  own  shores.  Should  this 
be  the  case  the  advantage  gained  by  them  on  this  second  in- 
vasion, in  which  there  could  not  have  been  less  than  5000 
men  employed  amount  to  the  surprise  of  a  picket  guard  near 
to  Fort  Meigs  by  the  Indians,  and  killing  and  taking  six  of 
the  men,  and  wounding  an  Express  and  a  boy  of  14  years  of 
age  on  the  road  to  Sandusky.  To  ballance  them  I  have  the 
honor  to  inform  you  that  Col.  [James  V.]  Balls  dragoons  met 
with  a  party  of  Indians  last  evening  near  to  Lower  Sandusky 
and  killed  11  out  of  the  12  of  them.  The  Indians  had  formed 
an  ambush,  and  fired  upon  the  advanced  guard  consisting  of  a 
Sergeant  and  five  privates  upon  seeing  the  squadron  pursued 
by  Col.  Ball  and  overtaken  by  the  front  squad  of  Capt.  Hop- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        507 

kins  Troops.  Tlie  greater  part  of  them  were  cut  down  by  Col. 
Ball,  Capt.  [S.  G.]  Hopkins  and  liis  subalterns,  whose  horses 
being  fleetest  overtook  them  first.  The  loss  on  our  side  con- 
ists  of  two  privates  wounded  one  of  them  very  slightly  two 
horses  killed  and  0  [?]  badly  wounded. 

I  shall  learn  early  tomorrow  whether  the  enemy  have  gone 
down  the  lake  or  not.  H  they  have  I  shall  take  the  road  to 
Cleaveland  with  the  Dragoons  and  200  mounted  militia  which 
I  expect  to  join  me  tonight  or  tomorrow  morning.  Col. 
[Thomas  D.]  Owings  has  not  yet  arrived.  I  have  been  un- 
ceasingly employed  in  fortifying  my  position  here  to  remedy 
in  that  way  the  weakness  of  my  force. 

I  received  letters  from  Erie  last  night  of  the  27th  Inst. 
Capt.  Perry  was  then  only  in  want  of  men  and  officers  to  en- 
able him  to  leave  the  harbor  and  attack  the  4  vessels  of  the 
enemy  then  in  sight. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  Sir  Yr.  Humble 
Svt 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

The  Honble  Genl.  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secretary  of  TFar 

P.  S.  My  fears  for  the  safety  of  Fort  Winchester  were  re- 
lieved by  the  return  of  Lt.  [Benjamin  W.]  Sanders  on  the 
29th  inst.  he  crossed  the  Miami  River  above  Fort  JMeigs  and 
found  no  appearance  of  any  number  of  the  enemy  having 
passed  up  in  that  direction. 


Harrison  to  Secretary  op  War 


(No.  78) 


Head  Quarters  Seneca  Towns  Aug.  1st  1813 

Har.  Pa.  ISO 

Sir: 

Since  I  had  the  honor  of  writing  this  morning  to  you,  the 
party  which  I  had  sent  to  the  Lake  returned  they  saw  some 
boats,  three  vessels  with  sails  and  a  number  of  Indian  canoes 
near  to  the  mouth  of  the  Sandusky  Bay.  They  wei'e  unable 
to  approach  near  enough  to  make  any  particular  discoveries 
and  had  no  glass.  There  can  be  no  doubt  however  but  the 
enemy  are  there  in  force. 

Will  you  be  so  obliging  as  to  order  some  small  spy  glasses 


508  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

to  be  sent  by  the  Express  mail  via  Cleavcland  for  the  use  of 
the  officers  commanding  Scouting  parties. 

I  have  tlio  honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Yr.  Obt.  Servt. 

WiLLi^i.  Henry  Harrison 

The  Ilonble  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secretary  of  War 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort — August — 2d — 1813 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A"  125 

Dear  Sir 

Your  favour  of  the  20  ult.  by  major  [David]  Trimble  has 
been  d\\\y  received  since  which  a  letter  from  General  [Green] 
Claj'  has  also  come  to  hand  stating  that  the  combined  force 
of  British  &  Indians  had  invested  Fort  Meigs — I  have  con- 
sidered a  volunteer  scheme  as  the  course  most  likely  to  obtain 
the  reinforcement  which  you  request  &  have  in  consequence 
of  that  opinion  appointed  the  olst  day  of  this  present  month, 
for  a  General  rendezvous  of  mounted  volunteers  at  New  Port 
on  the  Ohio  and  propose  to  head  them  myself.  In  addition 
to  this  I  have  addressed  a  circular  letter  to  most  of  the  Field 
officers  &  other  influential  characters  in  this  State  to  step 
forth  on  this  occasion — I  am  yet  not  able  to  say  what  will  be 
the  result  but  I  flatter  myself  that  a  sufficient  number  to  meet 
your  wishes  will  turn  out  and  you  may  rest  assured  every 
energy  which  I  possess  shall  be  exerted  the  utmost  to  efl'ect  it. 
I  need  not  observe  to  you  how  important  it  will  be  to  have 
rations  and  forage  laid  in  on  the  way  it  will  be  impossible  to 
move  on  mthout  the  latter  indeed  a  supply  must  be  laid  in 
in  this  State. — Men  who  travel  from  the  southern  parts  of  it 
will  require  both  rations  &  forage  at  that  place  to  enable  them 
to  proceed.  I  beg  you  may  attend  to  this  subject  and  let  me 
know  what  is  to  be  expected  seeing  that  you  cannot  be  rein- 
forced in  any  other  way  the  Government  must  not  stickle  at 
the  trifling  Expense  of  a  little  forage  to  obtain  an  eflicient 
force  for  the  main  objects  of  the  campaign.  You  shall  be 
regularly  informed  of  the  progress  I  am  making  to  reinforce 
you  of  the  steps  I  deem  necessary  to  efl'ect  it  &  hope  they  will 
meet  your  approbation  &  that  of  my  countiy.  no  apology  was 
necessary  to  invite  me  to  your  standard  had  I  more  age  & 
much  greater  experience  I  would  not  hesitate  to  fight  under 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        509 

your  banner  for  the  honour  &  interest  of  my  beloved  country. 

Accept  my  good  sir  assurances  of  most  perfect  esteem  and 

regard  and  remain 

Your  obt.  servant 

m   r^    1  Tir.x.TT  ^xr  Isaac  Shelby 

To  Genl.  Harrison 

George  Croghan  to  Harrison 

Lower  Sandusky,  Aug.  3,  1813 

^  „  Niles'  Register  IV,  3S9 

Dear  Sir  ; 

The  enemy  made  an  attempt  to  storm  us  last  evening,  but 
was  repulsed  with  the  loss  of  at  least  100  killed  wounded  and 
prisoners.  One  Heut.  col.  (It.  col.  Short)  a  major  and  a  lieu- 
tenant, with  about  40  privates,  are  dead  in  our  ditch.  I  have 
lost  but  one  in  killed,  and  but  few  wounded.  Further  state- 
ments will  be  made  you  by  the  bearer. 

George  Croghan,  major,  commanding  Fort  Sandtisky 

N.  B.     Since  writing  the  above,  two  soldiers  of  the  41st 

regiment  have  got  in,  who  state  that  the  eneiny  have  retreated. 

In  fact,  one  of  their  gunboats  is  within  three  hundred  yards 

of  our  works,  said  to  be  loaded  v/ith  camp-equipage,  &c.  which 

they,  in  their  hurry  have  left. 

George  Crogan 

John  Johnson  to  Secretary  of  War 

PiQUA,  August  3,  1813 

Niks'  Register  V,  7 

The  Delaware  and  Shav^^anoese  Indians  on  this  frontier  have 
turned  out  about  two  hundred  men  who  have  marched  to  the 
relief  of  gen.  Harrison.  The  Wyandots  within  our  lines,  the 
Senecas  and  Mingoes  have  also  tui'ned  out  their  disposable 
force,  about  two  hundred  more.  The  whole  intend  to  continue 
with  the  army  during  the  campaign. 

Jno.  Johnston,  Indian-  Agent 

William  Russell  to  Posey 

Vincennes  August  4,  1813 

Nilcs'  Register  V,  10 

On  ray  return  from  the  Mississinawa,  I  found  the  Indians 


510  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

had  got  in  small  parties  on  this  side  of  the  Wabash,  between 
this  place  and  the  mouth  of  White  river.  Those  two  rivers 
for  some  distance  up,  ai-e  skirted  with  prodigious  svv^amps  and 
brush,  which  afforded  them  a  complete  shelter,  I  despatched 
rangers  in  different  directions  in  order  to  drive  them  out,  the 
citizens  also  assembled  and  assisted  to  chequer  the  country — 
some  of  the  Indians  had  got  possession  of  some  horses  and 
were  making  off.  They  were  pursued  by  capt.  [Touissant] 
Dubois,  and  a  party  of  men,  who  overtook  them  and  recovered 
three  horses,  but  did  not  get  sight  of  an  Indian,  captain  John 
Andre  of  the  rangers  volunteered  his  services  to  follow  them, 
he  went  on  with  16  or  18  rangers.  He  was  also  joined  by 
captain  Dubois  and  Mr.  [Joseph]  Barron  your  interpreter,  to- 
gether with  a  Potawatomy  Indian  that  resides  with  Mr.  Bar- 
ron; they  soon  discovered  a  trail  of  horses  making  out  from 
the  settlement,  which  they  pursued,  and  soon  overtook  a  spy 
that  was  kept  in  the  rear;  they  pushed  on  and  dispatched  him, 
which  gave  notice  to  those  in  front  who  left  their  horses  and 
fled  with  great  precipitation — and  from  the  nature  of  the 
country  could  not  be  followed;  they  got  from  this  party  also 
5  horses ;  the  party  returned  on  the  2d  inst.  Capt.  Dubois  and 
Mr.  Barron  are  active  men ;  captain  Andre  is  also  a  very  brave 
active  and  enterprising  man.  I  hope  this  friendly  Indian  will 
in  future  prove  serviceable,  as  I  am  told  nothing  can  exceed 
his  activity  in  the  woods  particularly  on  a  trail. 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
Head-Quarters,  Seneca  Town,  August  4,  1813 

Historical  Register,  II,  '251 

Sir, 

In  my  letter  of  the  1st  instant,  I  did  myself  the  honour 
to  inform  you  that  one  of  my  scouting  parties  had  just  re- 
turned from  the  lake  shore,  and  had  discovered,  the  day  be- 
fore, the  enemy  in  force  near  the  mouth  of  the  Sandusky  bay. 
[see  Aug.  1  above]  The  party  had  not  passed  Lower  San- 
dusky two  hours,  before  the  advance,  consisting  of  Indians, 
appeared  before  the  fort,  and  in  half  an  hour  after  a  large 
detachment  of  British  troops ;  and  in  the  course  of  the  night 
they  commenced  a  cannonading  against  the  fort  with  three 
six-pounders  and  two  howitzers;  the  latter  from  gun-boats. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        511 

Tilt"  firing  was  partially  answered  by  majoi'  [George]  Crog- 
han,  having  a  six-pounder,  the  only  piece  of  artillery. 

The  fire  of  the  enemy  was  continued  at  intervals,  during 
the  second  instant,  until  about  half  after  five,  P.  M.,  when 
liiuling  that  their  cannon  made  little  impression  upon  the 
works,  and  having  discovered  my  position  here,  and  appi'e- 
licnding  an  attack,  an  attempt  was  made  to  carry  the  place  by 
storm.  Their  troops  were  formed  in  tvv^o  columns;  lieutenant- 
roloncl  Short  headed  the  principal  one,  composed  of  the  light 
and  battalion  companies  of  the  41st  regiment. 

This  gallant  oflicer  conducted  his  men  to  the  brink  of  the 
ditch,  under  the  most  galling  and  destructive  fire  from  the 
garrison,  and  leaping  into  it  was  followed  by  a  considerable 
luu't  of  his  own  and  the  light  company;  at  this  moment  a 
mask'cd  port  hole  was  suddenly  opened,  and  a  six-pounder  with 
a  half  load  of  powder  and  double  charge  of  leaden  slugs,  at 
the  distance  of  30  feet,  poured  destruction  upon  them  and 
hillc'd  or  \\'oundcd  nearly  every  man  who  had  entered  the  ditch. 
In  vain  did  the  British  officers  exert  themselves  to  lead  on 
the  balance  of  the  column;  it  retired  in  disorder  under  a 
shower  of  shot  from  the  fort,  and  sought  safety  in  the  ad- 
joining woods.  The  other  column  headed  by  the  grenadiers 
had  also  I'etired,  after  having  suffered  from  the  muskets  of 
our  men,  to  an  adjacent  ravine.  In  the  course  of  the  night, 
the  enemy,  with  the  aid  of  their  Indians,  drew  off  the  greater 
part  of  the  wounded  and  dead,  and  embarking  them  in  boats 
descended  the  river  with  the  utmost  precipitation.  In  the 
course  of  the  2d  instant,  having  heard  the  cannonading,  I 
made  several  attempts  to  ascertain  the  force  and  situation  of 
the  enemy ;  our  scouts  were  unable  to  get  near  the  fort,  from 
the  Indians  which  sui"}'ounded  it.  Finding  however,  that  the 
enemy  had  only  light  artillery,  and  being  well  convinced  that 
it  could  make  little  impression  upon  the  works,  and  that  any 
attempt  to  storm  it  would  be  resisted  with  effect,  I  waited 
for  the  arrival  of  250  mounted  volunteers,  which  on  the  even- 
ing before  had  left  Upper  Sandusky.  But  as  soon  as  I  was 
ill  formed  that  the  enemy  were  retreating,  I  set  out  with  the 
dragoons  to  endeavour  to  overtake  theni,  leaving  generals 
[Duncan]  IM'Arthu]'  and  [Dewis]  Cass  to  follow  with  all  the 
infantry  (about  700)  that  could  be  spared  from  the  protec- 
tion of  the  stoi'es  and  sick  at  tliis  place.     I  found  it  impossible 


512  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

to  come  up  with  tlicm.  Upon  my  arrival  at  Sandusky,  I  ^vas 
informed  by  tlie  prisoners  that  the  enemy's  forces  consisted 
of  4D0  reg-uhir  troops,  and  500  [Robert]  Dixon's  Indians,  com- 
manded by  general  [Henry]  Proctor  in  person,  and  that 
Tecumseh,  with  about  2000  warriors,  was  somewhei-e  in  the 
swamps,  between  this  and  Fort  I\reigs,  expecting  my  advanc- 
ing, or  that  of  a  convoy  of  provisions. 

As  there  was  no  prospect  of  doing  any  thing  in  front,  and 
being  apprehensive  that  Tecumseh  might  destroy  the  stores 
and  small  detachments  in  my  rear,  I  sent  orders  to  general 
Cass,  vv'ho  commanded  the  reserve,  to  fall  back  to  this  place, 
and  to  general  ^M'Arthur  with  the  front  line  to  follow  and 
support  him.  I  remained  at  Sandusky  until  the  parties  that 
were  sent  out  in  every  direction  returned — not  an  enemy  was 
to  be  seen. 

I  am  sorry  that  I  cannot  transmit  you  major  [George]  Crog- 
han's  official  report.  He  was  to  have  sent  it  to  me  this  morn- 
ing, but  I  have  just  heard  that  he  was  so  much  exhausted 
by  36  hours  of  continued  exertion  as  to  be  unable  to  make  it. 
It  will  not  be  amongst  the  least  of  general  proctor's  mortifica- 
tions to  find  that  he  has  been  baffled  by  a  youth  who  has  just 
passed  his  twenty-first  year.  He  is,  however  a  hero  worthy 
of  his  gallant  uncle  (general  George  R.  Clark). 

Captain  [James]  Hunter,  of  the  17th  regiment,  the  second 
in  command,  conducted  himself  with  great  propriety;  and 
never  were  a  set  of  finer  young  fellows  than  the  subalterns. 
viz.  lieutenants  [Benjamin]  Johnson  and  [Cyrus  Alexander] 
Baylor  of  the  17th,  [Joseph]  Anthony  of  the  24th,  [John] 
]Meeks  of  the  7th,  and  ensigns  [Edmund]  Shipp  and  [Joseph] 
Duncan  of  the  17th. 

The  following  account  of  the  unworthy  artifice  and  conduct 
of  the  enemy  will  excite  your  indignation,  major  Chambers 
was  sent  by  general  Proctor,  accompanied  by  colonel  Elliott, 
to  demand  the  surrender  of  the  fort.  They  were  met  by  en- 
sign Shipp.  The  major  observed,  that  general  Proctor  had  a 
number  of 'cannon,  a  lai'ge  body  of  regular  troops,  and  so  many 
Indians  whom  it  was  impossible  to  conti'oul;  and  if  the  fort 
was  taken,  as  it  must  be,  the  whole  of  the  garrison  would  be 
massacred.  IMr.  Shipp,  answered,  that  it  was  the  determina- 
tion of  major  Croghan,  his  ofiicers  and  men,  to  defend  the 
gari'ison  or  bo  bu]'ied  in  it;  and  that  Uw.y  might  do  their  best. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        513 

Colonel  Elliott  then  addressed  Mr.  Shipp,  and  said,  "you  are  a 
fine  young'  man;  I  pity  your  situation;  for  God's  sake  sur- 
render, and  prevent  the  dreadful  slaughter  that  must  follow 
resistance."  Shipp  turned  from  him  with  indignation,  and 
was  immediately  taken  hold  of  by  an  Indian,  who  attempted 
to  wrest  his  sword  from  him.  EHiott  pretended  to  exert  him- 
self to  release  him,  and  expressed  great  anxiety  to  get  him  safe 
in  the  fort. 

I  have  the  honour  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  the  first  note  re- 
ceived from  major  Croghan.  It  was  written  before  day;  and 
it  has  since  been  ascertained,  that  of  the  enemy  there  remained 
in  the  ditch  one  lieutenant-colonel  one  lieutenant  and  25  pri- 
vates :  the  number  of  prisoners,  one  serjeant  and  25  privates : 
14  of  them  badly  wounded :  every  care  has  been  taken  of  the 
latter,  and  the  ofiicers  buried  with  the  honours  due  to  their 
rank  and  bravery.  All  the  dead  that  were  not  in  the  ditch, 
were  taken  off  in  the  night  by  the  Indians.  It  is  impossible, 
from  the  circumstances  of  the  attack,  that  they  should  have 
lost  less  than  100.  Some  of  the  prisoners  think  that  it 
amounted  to  200.  A  young  gentelman,  a  private  in  the  Peters- 
burg volunteers,  of  the  name  of  Browai,  assisted  by  five  or  six 
of  that  company,  and  of  the  Pittsburg  blues,  wdio  wore  acci- 
dentally in  the  fort,  managed  the  six-pounder  which  produced 
such  destruction  in  the  ranks  of  the  enemy. 

1  have  the  honour  to  be  &c. 

Wm.  Henry  Harrison 

N.  B.  Of  our  few  wounded  men  there  is  but  one  that  will 
not  be  well  in  less  than  six  days. 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort  Aug  4th  1813 

From  Goi'crnor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter'  Book  A"  138 

To  Gcnl.  Harrison, 
Dr  Sir 

Since  I  had  the  honour  of  addressing  you  last  I  have  heard 
from  several  of  the  adjoining  counties — The  information  re- 
ceived confirms  the  opinion  I  had  entertained  that  the  patri- 
otism of  this  State  had  not  diminished,  and  induces  me  to 
believe  I  shall  on  the  day  of  rendezvous  meet  four  or  five  thou- 
sand vollunteers  and  per]ia])s  a  much  hu'ger  number  this  ren- 


514  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ders  it  highly  impoi'lant  that  supplies  of  provisions,  forage, 
(fee,  &;c.,  should  be  laid  in  with  a  liberal  hand.  I  flatter  my- 
solf  that  you  will  give  the  requisite  orders  on  the  subject  v.^- 
as  soon  as  practicable.  I  am  still  of  opinion  that  forage  pro- 
vision should  be  laid  in  at  George  town  that  the  men  may  then 
draw  what  will  last  them  untill  they  get  to  New  Port ;  those 
from  the  southern  part  of  the  State  cannot  well  move  on  VN-ith- 
out  it — you  will  please  let  me  hear  from  you  as  soon  as  pi'ac- 
ti  cable. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be  very  respectfully 
Your  obt.  Servt. 

Isaac  Shelby 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head-Quarters,  Seneca  To^VN, 
5th  August,  1813— S  o'clock  A.  :.I. 

Histo)-ical  Register  II,  ;?54 

I  have  the  honour  to  enclose  you  major  [George]  Croghan's 
report  of  the  attack  upon  his  fort,  which  has  this  moment  come 
to  hand.     Fortunately  the  mail  has  not  closed. 

With  great  respect,  I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir,  your  humble 
servant, 

Wm.  Henry  Harrison 

Croghan  to  Harrison 

Lower  Sandusky,  August  5,  1813 

Historkcl  Register  II,  ^5.i 

Dear  sir, 

I  have  the  honour  to  inform  you  that  the  combined  forces 
of  the  onem\',  amounting  to  at  least  500  regulars  and  700  or 
800  Indians,  under  the  immediate  command  of  general 
[Ileniy]  Proctor,  made  its  appearance  before  this  place  early 
on  Sunday  evening  last,  and  so  soon  as  the  general  had  made 
such  disposition  of  his  ti'oops  as  would  cut  off  my  retreat, 
should  I  be  disposed  to  make  one,  he  sent  colonel  Elliott,  ac- 
companied by  major  Chambers,  with  a  flag,  to  demand  the  sur- 
render of  the  fort,  as  he  was  anxious  to  spare  the  effusion  of 
blood,  which  he  should  probably  not  have  in  his  power  to  do, 
should  he  be  reduced  to  the  necessity  of  taking  the  place  by 
sto]-m.     My  answer  to  the  summons  was,  that  I  was  deter- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        515 

mined  to  defend  the  place  to  the  last  extremity,  and  that  no 
force,  hov/ever  large,  should  induce  me  to  surrender  it.  So 
soon  the  flag  had  returned,  a  brisk  fire  was  opened  upon  us 
i'l-om  the  gun-boats  in  the  river,  and  f}*om  a  51/2  inch  howitzer 
on  shore,  which  was  kept  up  with  little  intermission  through- 
out the  night.  At  an  early  hour  next  morning,  three  sixes 
(which  had  been  placed  during  the  night  within  250  yards 
of  the  pickets)  began  to  play  upon  us  v/ith  little  effect.  About 
four  o'clock,  P.  M.,  discovering  that  the  fire  from  all  his  guns 
was  concentrated  ag-ainst  the  northwestern  angle  of  the  fort, 
I  became  confident  that  his  object  was  to  make  a  breach,  and 
attempt  to  storm  the  works  at  that  point,  I  therefore  ordered 
out  as  many  men  as  could  be  employed  for  the  purpose  of 
strengthening  that  part,  which  was  so  effectually  secured  by 
means  of  bags  of  flour,  sand,  etc.  that  the  picketing  suffered 
little  or  no  injury;  notwithstanding  which  the  enemy,  about 
500,  having  formed  in  close  column,  advanced  to  assault  our 
works  at  the  expected  point,  at  the  same  time  making  two 
feints  on  the  front  of  captain  [James]  Hunter's  lines.  The 
column  which  advanced  against  the  northwestern  angle,  con- 
sisting of  about  350  men,  was  so  completely  enveloped  in 
smoke,  as  not  to  be  discovered  until  it  had  approached  within 
18  or  20  paces  of  the  lines,  but  the  men  being  all  at  their  posts 
and  I'eady  to  receive  it,  commenced  so  heavy  and  galling  a  fire 
as  to  throw  the  column  a  little  into  confusion;  being  quickly 
rallied,  it  advanced  to  the  outer  works,  and  began  to  leap  into 
the  ditch.  Just  at  that  moment  a  fire  of  grape  was  opened 
from  our  six-pounder  (which  had  been  previously  arranged  so 
as  to  rake  in  that  direction)  which,  together  with  the  mus- 
ketry, threw  them  into  such  confusion  that  they  v/ere  com- 
pelled to  retire  precipitately  to  the  woods. 

During  the  assault,  which  lasted  about  half  an  hour,  an  in- 
cessant fire  was  kept  up  by  the  enemy's  artillery  (which  con- 
sisted of  five  sixes  and  a  howitzer)  but  without  effect.  My 
whole  loss  during  the  siege,  was  one  killed  and  seven  wounded, 
slightly.  The  loss  of  the  enemy  in  killed,  wounded  and  pris- 
oners, must  exceed  150:  one  lieutenant-colonel,  a  lieutenant, 
and  50  rank  and  file  were  found  in  and  about  the  ditch,  dead 
or  wounded.  Those  of  the  remainder  who  were  not  able  to 
escape  were  taken  off  during  the  night  ))y  Indians.  Seventy 
stand  of  arms,  and  several  brace  of  pistols  have  been  collected 


516  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

near  the  works.  About  three  in  the  morning  the  enemy  sailed 
down  tlie  river,  leaving  behind  them  a  boat,  containing  cloth- 
ing and  considci'able  military  stores. 

Too  much  praise  cannot  be  bestowed  on  the  officers,  non- 
commissioned officers,  and  privates  under  my  command,  for 
their  gallantry  and  good  conduct  during  the  siege. 

G.  Croghan,  Major  17  United  States  Infantry 
I\Iajor  General  Harrison,  commanding  N.  W.  Army 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  August  5,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  S2,  S3 

Sir: 

The  best  interpretation  of  the  late  movements  of  the  enemy 
in  your  quarter  is  that  De  Rottenburg  has  detached  to  the  aid 
of  [Henry]  Proctor  between  four  and  five  hundred  men,  and 
that  with  these  he  is  attempting  to  save  INIalden  by  attacking 
fort  IMeigs.  If  this  conjecture  be  well  founded  it  suggests  the 
true  policy  on  our  part  provided  our  flotilla  can  get  over  the 
Bar.  Go  directly  to  IMalden,  and  leave  Mr.  Proctor  to  amuse 
himself  with  fort  I\Ieigs.  There  is  no  objection  to  your  ap- 
pointing the  Sergeants  to  other  offices  pro  tempre.  Captain 
[Robert]  Butler  has  been  appointed  ]Major  of  the  32d  Regi- 
ment and  Lieut.  [James]  McGhee  Captain  in  the  42nd. 

I\Iajor  Genl.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Meigs 
Headquarters,  Upper  Sandusky,  Aug.  6,  1813 

T^  ^  Niles'  Register,  IV,  i20 

Dear  Sir: 

Your  excellency's  letter  of  the  4th  inst.  was  delivered  to  me 
yesterday  morning  by  colonel  [Henry]  Brush.  The  exertions 
which  you  have  made,  and  the  pi'omptitude  with  which  your 
orders  have  been  obeyed  to  assemble  the  militia  to  repel  the 
late  invasion  of  the  enemy,  is  truly  astonishing,  and  reflects 
the  highest  honor  on  the  state.  Believing  that  in  a  formal 
interview  I  could  best  explain  to  you  the  intention  of  the  gov- 
ei-nment  and  my  own  views,  I  determined  to  come  on  to  this 
place  to  see  you.     I  have  now  the  honor  to  repeat  to  j'ou  in 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        517 

this  way  the  result  of  my  determination  on  the  employment 
of  the  militia,  and  most  of  the  facts  upon  which  my  determina- 
tion is  founded.  It  has  been  the  intention  of  government  to 
form  the  army  destined  for  operations  upon  Lake  Erie,  ex- 
clusively of  regular  troops,  if  they  could  be  raised ;  the  number 
was  limited  to  7,000 — the  deficiency  of  regulars  was  to  be 
made  up  from  the  militia.  From  all  the  information  I  at  pres- 
ent possess,  I  am  convinced  that  there  will  be  a  great  deficiency 
in  the  contemplated  number  of  troops,  even  after  the  militia 
now  in  service,  and  whose  time  of  service  will  not  expire  im- 
mediately, have  been  added  to  the  regulars.  I  have  therefore 
called  upon  the  governor  of  Kentucky  for  2000  effective  men ; 
with  those,  there  will  still  be  a  deficiency  of  perhaps  1,200 
troops.  Your  excellency  has  stated  to  me,  that  the  men  who 
have  turned  out  upon  this  occasion,  have  done  it  with  the  ex- 
pectation that  they  would  be  eff"ectually  employed,  and  that 
should  they  be  sent  home,  there  is  no  prospect  of  getting  them 
to  turn  out,  should  it  be  hereafter  necessary.  To  employ  them 
all  is  impossible;  with  my  utmost  exertions  the  embarkation 
cannot  be  effected  in  less  than  15  or  18  days.  Should  I  ever 
determine  to  substitute  them  for  the  regular  troops  which  are 
expected ;  to  keep  so  large  a  force  in  the  field,  even  for  a  short 
period,  would  consume  the  means  which  are  provided  for  the 
support  of  the  campaign,  and  which  are  only  collected  for  the 
number  above  stated.  Under  these  circumstances,  I  would 
recommend  a  middle  course  to  your  excellency,  viz.  to  dismiss 
all  the  militia  but  two  regiments  of  10  cojnpanies  each,  of  100 
men  and  an  usual  proportion  of  field,  plattoon  and  non-com- 
missioned officers  and  musicians;  that  the  corps  be  encamped 
at  or  near  this  place  until  it  is  ascertained  whether  their  serv- 
ices will  be  wanted — a  short  time  will  determine  the  question. 
Permit  me  to  request  your  excellency  to  give  your  countenance 
and  support  to  the  exertions  which  general  [Duncan] 
M'Arthur  will  make  to  fill  up  the  26th  regiment  of  12  months 
troops. 

It  appears  that  the  venerable  governor  of  Kentucky  is  about 
to  take  command  of  the  troops  of  the  state.  Could  your  ex- 
cellency think  proper  to  follow  his  example,  I  need  not  tell  you 
how  highly  grateful  it  would  be  to,  dear  sir,  your  friend. 

Wm.  II.  Harrison 


518  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Proctor  to  Harrison 

Amherstburg,  Aug.  7th,  1813 

Niles'  Register  IV,  .U9 

Sin : 

Tho  bearer,  lieiit.  Le  Breton  in  the  service  of  his  Britannic 
majesty,  I  send  under  a  flag  of  truce,  with  surgical  aid,  of 
which  you  may  not  have  a  sufTiciency,  for  the  brave  soldiers 
\\\\o  were  too  severely  wounded  to  come  off,  or  who  may  have 
lo.st  Iheir  way  after  the  unsuccessful  attack  made  on  the  2d 
ijkst.  on  the  fort  at  Sandusky. 

ICxpccling  every  consideration  from  the  brave  soldier  for  a 
wounded  enemy,  I  flatter  myself  that  those  prisoners  in  your 
po5sessi()n,  and  who  can  be  removed  without  injury,  will  be 
IHTmilted  to  return  here  on  my  parole  of  honor,  that  they  shall 
not  .serve  until  truly  and  regularly  exchanged. 

1  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  most  obedient  and  humble 
servant. 

Henry  Proctor 
To  the  oflicer  commanding  the  fort  at  Sandusky 

Shelby  to  Harrison  "'   ;;^ 

Frankfort  Aug  8th  1813 

From  GoveiTLor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A"  138 

miwi  Sir 

I  wrote  you  about  the  2nd  inst.,  by  major  [Peter  G.]  Voris 
und  by  the  mail  about  the  4th  for  I  have  not  the  copies  by 
rue  niucv  whicli  I  have  received  information  from  various  quar- 
Urn  of  the  State  that  the  volunteer  scheme  will  succeed  but 
It  ift  itupossit)l(«  lo  speak  with  any  kind  of  certainty  at  so  early 
■A  Mrtfre  of  the  business  I  flatter  myself  however  that  I  shall 
''<•  able  to  bring  in  the  field  from  two  to  three  thousand  or 
isj^ward.  my  i)resent  view^s  are  that  all  these  men  will  ride 
t"  thf  margin  of  the  Lake  and  if  they  cross  over  leave  about 
•'*T',..'  tenth  man  to  bring  the  horses  back  some  distance  &  herd 
th'Mi  in  the  best  range  in  partials  until  the  campaign  expires 
J!!:iny  of  the  volunteers  that  will  compose  this  corps  will  be 
♦  •ent.  who  will  care  less  about  emoluments  than  their  own 
«'.'rs4>  anil  coTivenience  &  must  have  their  horses  taken  care  of  to 
rule  home  a  gi-eat  proportion  of  the  volunteers  will  come  from 
the  So.  western  parts  of  the  State  who  will  have  to  travel 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        519 

from  two  to  three  hundred  miles  before  they  arrive  at  the 
points  of  rendezvous  many  of  them  too  will  be  poor  men  who 
will  not  be  able  to  proceed  unless  forage  &  rations  are  both 
supplied — indeed  I  shall  expect  that  forage  will  be  directed  to 
be  furnished  at  Georgetown  in  this  State — Horses  will  other- 
wise become  so  weak  it  will  be  impossible  for  them  to  proceed 
further.  I  must  therefore  my  good  sir  beg  your  early  and 
particular  attention  to  the  subject  of  forage  from  George 
Town  onwards  least  from  the  want  of  it  the  whole  scheme  to 
reinforce  you  from  this  State  shall  prove  abortive.  I  should 
suppose  that  the  discretion  confided  to  you  by  the  department 
of  war  will  justify  you  in  taking  this  step,  which  in  my  opinion 
is  all  important  &  cannot  be  dispensed  with,  but  at  the  hazard 
of  defeating  the  whole  enterprise. — Major  [David]  Trimble 
your  aid  de  camp  has  stated  that  you  would  not  Guarantee 
the  pay  of  more  than  2000  men  but  will  accept  the  services  of 
a  much  larger  number,  were  I  to  make  this  public  I  am  con- 
fident it  would  damp  the  ardor  of  volunteers — even  Gentlemen 
of  fortune  (of  whom  there  are  many  that  will  go  in  the  ranks) 
could  not  with  any  confidence  encourage  their  poorer  neigh- 
bors to  hazard  their  lives  and  loose  their  times  for  nothing  it 
is  at  any  rate  a  great  sacrifice  for  a  citizen  of  Kentucky  to 
make  for  the  mere  pay  of  a  common  foot  soldier  for  the  serv- 
ice of  himself  &  horse. — I  hope  you  will  reflect  also  on  this  sub- 
ject and  authorize  the  payment  for  all  that  go,  at  least  for 
4000  men  should  so  many  turn  out.  for  I  shall  otherwise 
not  be  able  to  draw  the  distinction  between  those  that  will  be 
entitled  to  receive  pay  and  those  that  shall  not  if  more  than 
2000  volunteers  turn  out.  If  the  want  of  forage  or  any  other 
trifling  occurrence  should  disgust  the  volunteers  and  cause 
them  to  refuse  to  proceed  on  from  George  town  or  the  Ohio, 
rest  assured  that  there  will  be  an  end  to  the  spirit  of  volun- 
teering from  Kentucky. — You  were  not  mistaken  as  to  the  in- 
disposition of  the  people  here  to  turn  out  again  and  it  is  has 
taken  great  exertion  to  reanimate  them  hence  the  greater 
necessity  in  the  Government  doing  them  at  least  common 
Justice — it  is  not  a  matter  of  so  much  moment  that  the  men 
should  be  paid  instantly — but  such  a  debt  of  gratitude  should 
be  acknowledged  by  the  Government  &  paid  when  she  has 
funds  to  do  it.  I  must  my  dear  sir,  hear  from  you  before  I 
leave  New  Port  and  if  possible  before  the  men  leave  their 


520  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

homes. — That  every  practicable  difficulty  may  be  removed  & 
that  the  true  standing  of  corps  may  be  fairly  understood. 
I  have  the  honour  to  be  ]\Iost  respectfully,  Dear  General 
Your  most  obdt.  servt. 

Isaac  Shelby 
Major  General  William  Henry  Harrison 

General  Order 

Head-quarters,  Eighth  Military  District, 
Seneca  Towns,  9th  August,  1813 

Niles'  Register,  IV,  Jt20 

Complaints  having  been  made  of  unfair  practices  by  some 
of  the  recruiting  officers,  in  the  enlistments  of  men ;  the  com- 
manding general  directs  the  superintendent  of  each  recruiting 
district  to  give  the  most  prompt  attention  to  every  allegation 
of  the  Idnd,  and  immediately  discharge  every  person  who  may 
have  been  enlisted  contrary  to  law  and  the  instructions  of 
the  war  department.  It  shall  also  be  the  duty  of  such  superin- 
tendants  to  arrest  and  send  on  to  head-quarters  for  trial,  every 
officer  who  may  have  offended  in  this  way  and  the  general 
announces  it  his  unalterable  determination  to  punish  with  the 
utmost  rigor,  such  as  may  be  convicted.  But,  whilst  he  thus 
evinces  his  desire  to  preserve  his  fellow  citizens  from  every 
species  of  militarj'  oppression;  he  hopes  that  the  patriotic  citi- 
zens will  venture  their  efforts  to  shield  the  recruiting  officers 
from  the  persecutions  of  certain  vile  miscreants,  who,  dis- 
gracing an  honorable  and  liberal  profession,  and  for  a  con- 
temptible fee,  are  constantly  endeavoring  to  deprive  their 
country  of  the  service  of  men,  who  have  been  fairly  and  legally 

engaged. 

A  True  Copy 

A.  H.  Holmes,  Assist.  Adj't  Gen. 

Harrison  to  Proctor 

Head-quarters,  Eighth  I\Iilitary  District  of  the 

United  States,  August  10,  1813 

g  Niles'  Register  IV,  410 

Your  letter  addressed  to  the  offiicer  commanding  at  Lower 
Sandusky,  [see  Aug.  7  above]  was  forwarded  from  thence  to 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        521 

me,  and  received  this  moment.  Upon  my  arrival  at  Fort 
Sandusky  on  the  morning  of  the  3d  instant,  I  found  that  major 
[George]  Croghan,  conformable  to  those  principles  which  are 
held  sacred  in  the  American  army,  had  caused  fill  the  care  to 
be  taken  of  the  wounded  prisoners  that  his  situation  would 
permit.  Having  with  me  my  hospital  surgeon,  he  was  par- 
ticularly charged  to  attend  to  them,  and  I  am  warranted  in 
the  belief  that  every  aid  that  surgical  skill  could  give  was  af- 
forded. They  have  been  liberally  furnished  too  with  every 
article  necessary  in  their  situation  which  our  hospital  stores 
could  supply. 

Having  referred  to  my  government  for  orders  respecting 
the  disposition  of  the  prisoners,  I  cannot  with  propriety  com- 
ply with  your  request  for  an  immediate  exchange. 

But  I  assure  you,  sir,  that  as  far  as  it  depends  upon  me,  the 
course  of  treatment  which  has  been  commenced  towards  them, 
whilst  in  my  possession,  will  be  continued. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  humble  servant, 

Wm.  H.  Harrison 
Maj.  Gen.  coynmanding  8th  U.  S.  District 
To  General  Proctor 


Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort  Aug  11th  1813 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Booh  A"  151 

Dear  Sir 

I  think  it  my  duty  to  apprise  you  of  every  occurrence  rela- 
tive to  the  reinforcing  you  from  Kentucky. 

When  my  address  of  the  31st  July  to  the  militia  of  this 
State  was  first  published  (of  which  I  inclose  you  a  copy) 
[see  July  31  above]  the  public  spirit  of  this  country  as  usual 
flared  out  &  it  was  expected  every  where  that  five  Thousand 
men  &  probably  a  much  greater  number  of  volunteers  would 
turn  out  &  go  with  me  to  reinforce  you  it  being  just  such  a 
tower  as  they  had  cried  out  for  &  often  solicited  me  to  at- 
tempt. But  their  ardour  has  greatly  subsided  <fe  the  inquiry 
from  all  points  is  what  pay  are  we  to  receive,  shall  we  get 
paid  for  our  lost  horses  and  is  forage  laid  in  on  the  way  for 
them  &c.  I  am  greatly  mortified  at  the  present  prospect,  but 
shall  continue  to  exert  every  power  to  get  out  as  large  a  force 

86— 22C64 


522  INDIANA  IIISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

as  possible.  There  is  a  much  greater  degree  of  public  spirit 
on  the  North  side  of  the  Kentucky  River  than  on  the  other. 
I  have  this  day  ordered  a  draft  on  the  South  side  of  Keiitu(k\ 
for  1500  men  to  be  taken  from  the  bounds  in  which  tlie  for- 
mer 1500  men  were  drafted  that  were  discharged  in  conse- 
quence of  your  letter  to  me  of  the  21st  of  April  last.  I  hojie 
that  this  step  will  produce  that  number  from  the  southern 
side  of  the  Kentucky,  &  that  probably  one  thousand  volunteers 
will  turn  out  on  the  north  side — I  never  have  been  so  far  dis- 
appointed in  the  patriotism  of  my  countrymen  befoi'e  &  am 
at  a  loss  for  what  cause  to  attribute  their  backwardness  all 
at  once.  The  1500  to  be  drafted  are  to  rende/.vous  at  Ceorgc 
Town  in  this  State  on  the  tenth  day  of  next  month,  and  the 
necessary  arrangements  in  the  quartermaster  line  will  be  reii- 
uisite  for  their  advance. 

I  have  admitted  in  the  order  for  the  draft  that  all  who  come 
forward  &  join  the  mounted  volunteers  from  the  south  side 
of  Kentucky,  may  be  considered  as  a  part  of  the  quota  re- 
quired by  the  draft,  &  I  flatter  myself  this  proposition  will 
induce  many  to  come  on  from  that  quarter  to  the  General 
rendezvous  on  the  31st  inst.,  al:  Newport. 

I  beg  leave  to  remind  you  once  more  of  the  importance  of 
liaving  forage  laid  in  on  the  way. 

I  shall  apprise  you  from  time  to  time  of  the  prospects  which 
I  have  relative  to  my  success  in  obtaining  men,  fo  the  end 
that  if  they  don't  meet  your  expectation  you  can  look  to  other 
sources  for  relief. 

The  mail  is  this  moment  closing  &  only  affords  me  time  to 
conclude  with  sincere  wishes  for  your  welfare  &  prosiioity 

And  remain  your  obt  friend  &c., 

Isaac  Siieluy 
To  Majr.  Gen.  Wm.  Henry  Harrison, 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.80) 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Towns  11th  August  1813 

Hur.  Pa.  131-1:; J, 

Sir: 

Genl.  [Henry]  Proctor  returned  to  Maiden  on  the  Gth  or 
7th  and  excepting  a  very  few  I  believe  that  all  his  Indians 
liave  also  retired  some  of  their  signs  are  occasionally  seen,  but 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        523 

they  have  become  so  shy  that  they  attempt  no  mischief.  A 
party  of  our  friendly  Indians  picked  up  near  the  Lake,  4  Brit- 
ish Soldiers  who  had  made  their  escape  from  the  ditch  at  Fort 
Sandusky,  but  were  unable  to  overtake  their  own  army. 

A  British  Lieutenant  accompanied  by  a  surgeon  arrived  at 
Sandusky  yesterday  morning  with  a  Flag  and  letter  from 
Genl.  Proctor  and  were  very  improperly  sent  to  me  without 
any  previous  notice.  I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  herewith 
a  copy  of  his  letter  and  my  answer,  [see  Aug.  7  and  10 
above]  The  prisoners  that  are  not  wounded,  16  in  number 
have  been  sent  to  Upper  Sandusky.  What  disposition  will  you 
have  made  of  them? 

When  the  news  of  the  invasion  of  this  state  was  made  known 
an  immense  number  of  militia  was  put  in  motion  by  Govr. 
I>*Ieigs  and  the  different  general  offtcers.  Having  received  a 
letter  from  Govr.  Meigs  informing  me  of  his  arrival  at  Upper 
Sandusky  with  the  advanced  detachments.  I  met  him  there 
on  the  6th  Inst  and  addressed  a  letter  [see  Aug.  6  above]  to 
him  advising  him  to  dismiss  all  the  militia  excepting  ten  com- 
panies of  one  hundred  each,  who  might  be  retained  untill  it 
could  be  ascertained  whether  the  whole  or  any  part  would  be 
wanted.  Major  [A.  H.]  Holmes  has  forwarded  the  Return 
of  all  the  Troops  excepting  those  at  Fort  IMeigs.  The  Return 
from  thence  was  received  this  morning  and  will  be  fonvarded 
by  the  next  mail,  from  this  you  will  perceive  that  it  will  re- 
quire at  least  4000  militia  to  make  up  the  compliment  of  7000 
destined  for  the  expedition  into  Canada. 

The  Ohio  Militia  which  were  called  into  service  last  spring 
will  all  be  discharged  in  ten  days  and  there  will  remain  only 
about  650  of  the  Kentucky  Militia.  I  have  required  Govr. 
Shelbj^  to  furnish  twenty  companies  of  100  men  each.  He  is 
now  raising  them  and  will  command  them  in  person.  They 
will  come  in  on  Horses  and  send  them  back. 

Commodore  Perry  sailed  from  Erie  on  the  5th  Inst,  in  pur- 
suit of  the  enemy.  I  should  have  no  apprehension  for  the 
issue  of  the  conflict  if  he  had  a  proper  compliment  of  seamen 
and  ofllcers.  They  are  he  informs  me  greatly  deficient  and  an 
eye  witness  writes  that  there  is  not  more  than  half  the  proper 
number  of  good  seamen.  He  has  some  volunteers  from  the 
Pensylvania  Rcgt.  of  Militia  at  Erie.  The  rest  have  resolved 
"that  they  will  come  on  to  join  this  army  as  ordered  provided 
they  get  two  months  pay  beforehand". 


!^aJiut£U^r>^f^££A':f: 


524  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Permit  mc  to  solicit  j^our  attention  to  the  staff  of  this  army, 
]\Iajor  [Levi]  Hukill  and  Major  [A.  H.]  Holmes  will  not  be 
able  for  a  considerable  time  to  reduce  into  order  the  chaos  that 
reigns  from  the  entire  want  of  experience  in  the  officers  of  the 
new  Regiments.  Col.  [Edmund  P.]  Gaines  who  has  lately 
been  promoted  to  the  Command  of  the  25th  Regt.  is  here. 
He  would  make  a  most  excellent  Adjutant  General  and  will 
serve  in  that  capacity  unless  his  regiment  is  full  in  which  case 
he  would  prefer  to  join  it. 

My  Aid  de  Camp  Lieut.  [John]  0' Fallon  is  a  2nd  Lieut,  in 
the  1st  Regt.  permit  me  to  request  that  he  be  transfered  to 
the  24th  Regt.  with  the  same  rank  of  that  of  1st.  Lieut,  if 
the  vacancies  of  that  grade  are  not  all  taken  up  by  the  promo- 
tion of  the  Subalterns  heretofoi'e  in  that  Regiment. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  the  greatest  respect  Yr.  Humbel 
Servant. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

The  Honble  Genl.  John  Armstrong  Secretary  of  War 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
No  81 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Towns  12th  Augt.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  135 

Sir: 

IMajor  [Levi]  Hukill  has  written  to  the  Inspector  Genl.  for 
blank  inspection  Returns  but  he  has  received  none.  Will  you 
be  pleased  to  give  directions  for  having  them  forwarded  by 
the  express  mail.  There  is  difficulty  in  getting  these  printed 
in  this  country. 

The  British  Surgeon's  Mate  who  came  with  the  Flag  ac- 
knowledgers that  they  lost  91  killed  and  missing.  He  did  not 
mention  the  number  of  wounded  that  has  been  taken  off,  but 
said  that  several  had  died  before  they  got  to  the  Lake.  Major 
Muir  one  of  their  best  officers  was  supposed  to  be  mortally 
wounded. 

I  have  tlie  honor  to  be  with  great  respect,  Sir  Yr.  Humble 
Servant. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  Genl.  John  Armstrong,  Secretary  of  War 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        525 

Harrison  to  Voorhies 
Head  Quarters,  Seneca  Town,  August  18,  1813 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Aff.  I,  653 

Sir: 

As  you  have  reported  yourself  to  me  as  the  authorized  agent 
of  the  contractor,  I  must  request  that  you  take  immediate 
measures  for  having  two  hundred  thousand  rations  of  salted 
pork  or  bacon  prepared  at  Cleveland,  Sandusky,  or  some  other 
place  on  the  lake,  to  be  used  when  the  army  shall  arrive  on 
the  Canada  shore.  Should  you  think  proper  to  supply  the 
other  component  parts,  and  make  the  two  hundred  thousand 
complete  rations,  you  are  at  liberty  to  do  so.  You  have  the 
flour  at  Cleveland,  and  as  it  will  not  be  wanted  there,  it  can  be 
used  for  the  above  purpose;  however,  the  pork  must  be  pro- 
cured at  any  rate. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  humble  servant 

William  H.  Harrison 
I\Taj.  Peter  G.  Voorhies  Agt.  for  Orr  and  Greely 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No  83) 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Town  August  22nd  1813 

Har.  Pa.  136-7 

Sir: 

I  returned  this  day  from  a  visit  to  Commodore  Perry  who 
is  nov/  with  his  fleet  (10  sails)  off  the  mouth  of  the  Sandusky 
bay.  He  received  an  accession  of  officers  and  seamen  before 
he  left  Erie  but  he  is  still  very  deficient  in  both  in  the  number 
and  quality  of  the  latter.  To  remedy  this  defect  as  far  as  pos- 
sible, I  have  furnished  him  with  one  hundred  of  my  best  men, 
including  all  the  seamen  that  could  be  found  in  the  companies 
here. 

An  order  has  also  been  forwarded  to  Fort  Meigs  to  select 
all  of  the  latter  that  are  there  and  send  them  down  to  the 
Commodore  at  the  mouth  of  the  Miami  bay. 

The  Commodore  and  myself  have  agreed  upon  the  propriety 
of  his  proceeding  immediately  off  Maiden  to  brave  the  enemies' 
fleet,  and  if  possible  bring  them  to  action  before  he  shall  be 
encumbered  with  our  troops.  I  am  aflraid  that  they  will  not 
fight  him  at  present,  but  his  appearance  before  Maiden  will 


526  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

have  a  great  effect  upon  the  Indians,  between  whom  and  their 
allies  verj^  serious  disputes  have  arisen.  Three  Wyandot  In- 
dians, in  whom  I  have  entire  confidence  have  been  sent  by 
their  old  chief  the  Crane  upon  my  suggestion  to  widen  the 
breach  and  endeavour  to  prevail  upon  them  to  return  home  and 
suffer  the  contest  to  be  decided  by  the  British  and  us  alone. 

I  am  exerting  every  nerve  to  complete  my  preparations  for 
crossing  the  Lake  as  soon  as  I  am  reinforced  by  two  thousand 
of  the  Kentucky  militia.  That  number  is  indispensible  from 
the  sickly  state  of  the  regular  troops,  of  whom  I  shall  think 
myself  fortunate  to  take  with  me  two-fifths  of  the  aggregate 
amount. 

I  shall  do  myself  the  honor  to  write  to  you  more  fully  by  the 
next  mail. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  Sir  with  great  respect  your  humble 
Servant. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esquire  SecreUiry  at  War 


Aaron  Greely  to  Harrison 
Camp  Harrison,  Cleveland,  August  25,  1813 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Aff.  I,  653 

Sir: 

I  have  taken  the  liberty  to  send  you  enclosed  a  correct  state- 
ment of  the  component  parts  of  rations  at  this  time  ready  to 
be  delivered  in  good  order  along  the  lake  coast,  on  the  nav- 
igable waters  within  this  district;  the  pj'incipal  part  of  which 
are  at  this  place.  All  the  component  parts  of  the  rations  can 
be  delivered  almost  exclusively  at  this  post  immediately,  ex- 
cept the  salted  pork,  which  will  fall  short  of  the  two  hundi'cd 
thousand  rations  about  thirty  thousand;  this  deficiency  is  not 
in  the  country,  neither  can  it  be  procured  in  time  at  this  season 
of  the  year.  If  you  should  think  it  proper  to  take  salted  beef 
in  lieu  of  this  deficiency,  I  have  the  barrels  and  salt  on  hand, 
and  can  deliver  to  you  five  hundred  barrels  prime  beef,  in 
good  order,  and  warranted  to  keep  good  until  the  first  of  May 
next.  Ten  day's  notice  will  be  sufficient  I  have  contracted 
for  ten  thousand  pounds  of  bacon ;  the  time  in  which  it  was 
to  be  delivered  has  expired  since  the  20th  instant.  I  expect 
it  every  day,  and  am  confident  it  will  be  here  in  time. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        527 

I  have  a  number  of  bakers  employed  in  baking  biscuit,  of 
which  I  can  immediately  furnish  you  with  fifty  thousand  ra- 
tions, warranted  to  keep  good  for  one  year.  Colonel  [B.  G.] 
Orr's  long  stay  in  the  city  of  Washington  prevented  my  re- 
turning here  before  you  left  this  to  attend  to  your  orders. 

I  experience  a  very  serious  difficulty  for  the  want  of  stores 
for  the  provisions.  Was  Mr.  Duncan  Reed,  the  acting  Deputy 
Quartermaster,  more  attentive  to  his  business  a  few  boards 
might  be  procured  to  cover  those  provisions  which  are  now 
lying  exposed  to  the  storms  on  the  lake  shore,  and  the  evil 
in  a  great  degree  be  remedied.  The  regiment  of  Pennsyl- 
vania militia,  under  the  command  of  Colonel  Rees  Hill, 
amounting  to  about  six  hundred  and  fifty  men,  will  arive  here 
on  Sunday  next.  I  shall  ever  endeavor  at  all  times  to  obey 
you  and  comply  with  your  requisitions,  and  exert  myself  for 
the  good  of  the  pubhc  service. 

I  am,  with  pleasure,  respectfully  your  obedient  humble 
servant, 

Aaron  Greely 
His  Excellency  Wm.  H.  Harrison  Maj.  Gen.  Com.  N.  W.  Army 

Croghan  to  Editor  of  Liberty  Hall 

Lower  Sandusky,  August  27,  1813 

Cincinnati  Liberty  Hall,  Sept.  i4,  1813 

I  have  with  much  regret  seen  in  some  of  the  public  prints, 
such  misrepresentations  respecting  my  refusal  to  evacuate  this 
post,  as  are  calculated  not  only  to  injure  me  in  the  estimation 
of  military  men,  but  also  to  excite  unfavorable  impressions 
as  to  the  propriety  of  General  Harrison's  conduct  relative  to 
this  affair. 

His  character  as  a  military  man  is  too  well  established  to 
need  my  approbation  or  support.  But  his  public  services  en- 
title him  at  least  to  common  justice,  this  affair  does  not  fur- 
nish cause  of  reproach.  If  public  opinion  has  been  lately  mis- 
led respecting  his  late  conduct,  it  will  require  but  a  moment's 
cool,  dispassionate  reflection,  to  convince  them  of  its  propriety. 
The  measures  recently  adopted  by  him,  so  far  from  deserving 
censure,  are  the  clearest  proofs  of  his  keen  penetration  and 
able  Generalship.  It  is  true  that  I  did  not  proceed  immedi- 
ately to  execute  his  order  to  evacuate  this  post;  but  this  dis- 


528  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

obedience  was  not,  as  some  would  wish  to  believe,  the  result 
of  a  fixed  determination  to  maintain  the  post  contrary  to  his 
most  positive  orders,  as  will  appear  from  the  following  de- 
tail, which  is  given  to  explain  my  conduct. 

About  10  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  30th  ultimo,  a  letter 
from  the  Adjutant  General's  ofTice,  dated  Seneca  Town,  July 
29,  1813,  was  handed  me  by  Mi\  [John]  Conner,  ordering  me 
to  abandon  this  post,  burn  it,  and  retreat  that  night  to  head- 
quarters. On  the  reception  of  the  order  I  called  a  council  of 
officers,  in  which  it  was  determined  not  to  abandon  the  place, 
at  least  until  the  further  pleasure  of  the  General  should  be 
Imown,  as  it  was  thought  an  attempt  to  retreat  in  the  open 
day,  in  the  face  of  a  superior  force  of  the  enemy  would  be 
more  hazardous  than  to  remain  in  the  fort,  under  all  its  dis- 
advantages. I  therefore  wrote  a  letter  to  the  General,  couched 
in  such  terms  as  I  thought  were  calculated  to  deceive  the 
enemy  should  it  fall  into  his  hands,  which  I  thought  more 
than  probable — as  well  as  to  inform  the  General,  should  it  be 
so  fortunate  as  to  reach  him,  that  I  would  wait  to  hear  from 
him,  before  I  should  proceed  to  execute  his  order.  This  let- 
ter, contrary  to  my  expectations  was  received  by  the  General, 
who,  not  knowing  what  reasons  urged  me  to  write  in  a  tone 
so  decisive,  concluded  very  rationally  that  the  manner  of  it 
was  demonstrative  of  the  most  positive  determination  to  dis- 
obey his  order  under  any  circumstance.  I  was  therefore  sus- 
pended from  the  command  of  the  fort,  and  ordered  to  Head 
quarters,  But  on  explaining  to  the  General  my  reason  for  not 
executing  his  orders,  and  my  object  in  using  the  style  I  had 
done,  he  was  so  perfectly  satisfied  with  the  explanation,  that 
I  was  immediately  reinstated  in  the  command. 

It  will  be  recollected  that  the  order  above  alluded  to,  was 
written  on  the  night  previous  to  my  receiving  it — had  it  been 
delivered  to  me,  as  was  intended,  that  night,  I  should  have 
obeyed  it  without  hesitation;  its  not  reaching  me  in  time,  was 
the  only  reason  which  induced  me  to  consult  my  officers  on 
the  propriety  of  waiting  the  General's  further  orders. 

It  has  been  stated,  also,  that  upon  my  representations  of  my 
ability  to  maintain  the  post,  the  General  altered  his  deter- 
mination to  abandon  it.  This  is  incorrect.  No  such  repre- 
sentation was  ever  made.  And  the  last  order  I  received  from 
the  General,  was  precisely  the  same  as  that  first  given,  viz. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        529 

'That  if  I  discovered  the  approach  of  a  large  British  force  by 
water,  (presuming  that  they  would  bring  heavy  artillery,) 
time  enough  to  effect  a  retreat,  I  was  to  do  so ;  but  if  I  could 
not  retreat  Vvith  safety,  to  defend  the  post  to  the  last  ex- 
tremity.' 

A  day  or  two  before  the  enemy  appeared  before  fort  jMeigs, 
the  General  had  reconnoitred  the  surrounding  ground,  and 
being  informed  that  the  hill  on  the  opposite  side  of  Sandusky 
completely  commanded  the  fort,  I  offered  to  undertake,  with 
the  troops  under  mj^  command,  to  remove  it  to  that  side.  The 
General,  upon  reflection,  thought  it  best  not  to  attempt  it,  as 
he  believed  that  if  the  enemy  again  appeared  on  this  side  of 
the  lake,  it  would  be  before  the  work  could  be  finished. 

It  is  useless  to  disguise  the  fact,  that  this  fort  is  commanded 
by  the  points  of  high  ground  around  it ;  a  single  stroke  of  the 
eye  made  this  clear  to  me  the  first  time  I  had  occasion  to  ex- 
amine the  neighborhood,  ^^'ith  a  view  of  discovering  the  rela- 
tive streng-th  and  weakness  of  the  place. 

It  would  be  insincere  t-o  say  that  I  am  not  flattered  by  the 
many  handsome  things  which  have  been  said  about  the  de- 
fence which  was  made  by  the  troops  under  my  command ;  but 
I  desire  no  plaudits  which  are  bestowed  upon  me,  at  the  ex- 
pense of  General  Harrison. 

I  have  at  all  times  enjoyed  his  confidence  so  far  as  my  rank 
in  the  army  entitled  me  to  it.  And  on  proper  occasions  re- 
ceived his  marked  attention.  I  have  felt  the  warmest  at- 
taclmient  for  him  as  a  man,  and  my  confidence  in  him  as  an 
able  commander  remains  unshaken.  I  feel  every  assurance 
that  he  will  at  all  times  do  me  ample  justice;  and  nothing 
could  give  me  more  pain  than  to  see  his  enemies  seize  upon 
this  occasion  to  deal  out  their  unfriendly  feelings  and  acrim- 
onious dislike — and  as  long  as  he  continues  (as  in  my  humble 
opinion  he  has  hitherto  done)  to  make  the  wisest  arrange- 
ments and  most  judicious  disposition,  which  the  forces  under 
his  command  will  justify,  I  shall  not  hesitate  to  unite  with  the 
army  in  bestowing  upon  him  that  confidence  which  he  so  richly 
merits,  and  which  has  on  no  occasion  been  witheld. 

Your  friend, 

George  Croghan  Maj  17  Inf 


:)30  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Field  Officers  to  ILarrl^^on 

Lower  Seneca  Town.  Aug.  29,  ISlo 

Daw? on,  Harrison,  .109 

Th-:  undersigned,  being  the  general,  field,  and  staff  ofricci  s. 
with  that  portion  of  the  north-western  army  under  the  im- 
mediate command  of  General  Harrison  have  observed  with  le- 
i^\\:t  iind  surprise  that  charges  as  iniproper  in  the  form  as  in 
the  substance  have  been  made  against  the  conduct  of  General 
Harrison  during  the  recent  investment  of  Lov.-er  Sandusky. 
At  another  time,  and  under  ordinary  circumstances,  we  shor/k; 
deem  it  improper  and  unmilitary  thus  publicly  to  give  ariv 
opinion  resi^ecting  the  movements  of  the  army.  But  public 
{•onfulence  in  the  commanding  General  is  essential  to  the  suc- 
cess of  the  campaign,  and  causelessly  to  withdraw  or  to  witli- 
hold  that  confidence,  is  more  than  individual  injustice;  it  be- 
comes a  serious  injury  to  the  seiwice.  A  part  of  the  force, 
of  wliich  the  American  army  consists,  will  derive  its  greatest 
strength  and  efficacy  from  a  confidence  in  the  commanding 
General,  and  from  those  moral  causes  which  accompany  and 
give  energy  to  public  opinion.  A  very  erroneous  idea  respect- 
ing the  number  of  the  troops  then  at  the  disposal  of  the  Gen- 
eral, lias  doubtless  been  the  primary  cause  of  those  unfortunate 
.  !  il  unfounded  impressions.  A  sense  of  duty  forbids  us  from 
giving  a  detailed  view  of  our  strength  at  that  time.  In  that 
resr''-f:t,  we  have  fortunately  experienced  a  very  favorable 
cliange.  Lut  we  refer  the  public  to  the  General's  official  re- 
port to  the  secretary  of  war,  of  major  [Geo'ge]  Croghan's 
successful  dcfeiir-e  of  Lower  Sandusky.  In  that  will  be  found 
a  sb'iiement  (m"  Oiir  wliole  disposable  force;  and  he  who  be- 
lieves that  with  such  a  force,  and  under  the  circumstances 
wliich  then  occurred.  General  Har}'ison  ought  to  have  advan.ced 
ui)on  the  enemy  must  be  left  to  correct  his  opinion  in  the 
School  of  experience. 

On.  a  review  of  the  course  th<  ,■•  adopted,  we  are  decivi<  c'ih 
^'f  the  oj)in;on,  that  it  was  such  as  was  dictated  by  mil-iavy 
v^•isdom.  and  by  a  due  regard  to  oio:  own  circumstances  and 
to  the  situation  of  the  enemy.  The  reasons  for  this  opinion 
it  is  cvidfTitly  improper  now  to  >rivr>.  but  we  hold  ourselves 
^  >r.dy  at  ;.  {."iiture  poriotL  and  when  olhci'  circumstances  shall 
have  inie/v^  ned,  to  salr.iy  every  man  of  its  cori-ectness  who 
is  anxioi:.    to  investigate  and  willing  to  receive  the  truth. 


i:^iilu:s^CLiiiiicjMiit 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        531 

And  with  a  rcadj^  acquiescence,  beyond  the  mere  claims  of 
militarj'  duty,  we  are  prepared  to  obey  a  General,  whose  meas- 
ures meet  our  most  deliberate  approbation,  and  merit  that  of 
his  country, 

Lewis  Cass,  Bng  Gen.  U.  S.  A. 

Samuel  Wells,  Col.  17,  R.  U.  S.  I 

Thos.  D.  Owings,  Col.  28  R.  U.  S.  I 

George  Paull,  col.  17  R.U.  S.  I. 

J.  C.  Bartlett,  Col  Q.  M.  G. 

James  V.  Ball,  Licnt.  Col. 

Robert  Morrison,  Lieiit  Col. 

George  Todd,  Maj.  19  R.  U.  S.  I. 

James  Smiley,  Maj  28  R.  U.  S.  I. 

William  Trigg,  Maj,  28  R.  U.  S.  I. 

Rd.  Graham,  Maj  17  R.U,  S.  I. 

George  Croghan,  Maj.  17  R.  U,  S.  I. 

L.  HUKILL,  Maj  &  As.  Imp.  Gen. 

E.  D.  Wood,  Maj  Engineers 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  84) 


Head  Quarters  Seneca  Town  August  29th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  138-liO 

Sir: 

An  indisposition  of  which  I  am  now  getting  the  better  pre- 
vented me  from  writing  to  you  by  last  mail. 

I  shall  be  able  to  embark  some  day  between  the  10th  and 
15th  Proximo  with  upwards  of  2000  regular  troops  and  three 
thousand  militia.  Every  exertion  has  been  and  is  continued 
to  be  made  to  prepare  for  the  contemplated  offensive  opera- 
tions, but  as  we  could  not  navigate  the  Lakes  untill  our  Flo- 
tilla came  up  nor  accumulate  any  power  on  its  margin  the 
stores  that  were  at  Upper  Sandusky  and  Fort  Winchester  dur- 
ing Proctor's  late  invasions  it  will  take  the  time  I  have  men- 
tioned before  the  embarkation  can  be  effected.  It  might  be 
facilitated  by  moving  the  troops  that  are  here  immediately  to 
the  Lake  and  there  waiting  for  the  Kentucky  Militia.  But  it 
is  extremely  unhealthy  on  the  edge  of  the  southern  shore  from 
Huron  to  the  River  Raison  that  the  most  fatal  effects  would 
follow  the  keeping  the  Troops  upon  it  even  for  a  few  days. 
You  can  form  no  correct  estimate  of  the  dreadful  effects  of 


532  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

the  immediate  body  of  stagnant  water  with  wliich  the  vicinity 
of  the  Lake  abounds,  from  the  state  of  the  troops  at  Lower 
Sandusky  upwards  of  ninety  are  this  morning  reported  on 
the  sick,  out  of  about  220.  Those  at  Fort  Meigs  are  all  much 
better.  This  position  is  tlie  most  healthful]  in  the  whole  coun- 
try. I  am  removing  part  of  the  sick  from  Fort  Meigs  here 
and  shall  place  the  ill  men  upon  Edwards  Island  as  soon  as 
the  fleet  returns.  The  Commodore  has  been  absent  for  seven 
days.  A  Frenchman  from  the  River  Raison  who  arrived  at 
Fort  ]\Ieigs  the  day  before  yesterday  says  that  he  was  off  the 
mouth  of  the  Straight  Thursday  early  but  that  the  British  fleet 
remained  in  the  Harbour.  This  Frenchman  is  a  respectable 
citizen  of  the  IMichigan  Territory  (Col.  Navarre)  and  on  the 
way  from  Fort  Meigs  saw  all  tlio  Wyandots  and  Shawneese 
with  their  chief  on  the  Mission  to  the  Hostile  Indians,  I  ex- 
pect by  them  important  information.  Should  they  arrive  be- 
fore the  mail  closes  it  shall  be  communicated. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Sir  Your  Humb. 
Svt 

WiLLM.  Henry  HARrasoN 

The  Honble  John  Ar^istrong,  Esqr.  Secretary  of  War 

.,  Shelby  to  Harrison 

New  Port  Sept  1st  1813  8  o'clock  P.  M. 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby'fi  Letter  Booh  D,  lOS 

Dear  Genl. 

I  have  now  the  pleasure  to  acquaint  you  that  I  arrived  here 
yesterday  about  10  o'clock  and  the  mounted  volunteers  have 
been  crossing  the  Ohio  since  early  on  Monday  by  Companies. 
I  have  ordered  the  whole  to  concentrate  at  Springfield  where 
I  shall  halt  a  day  or  two  for  some  ammunition  and  hospital 
stores  and  endeavor  to  organize  the  army  after  which  not  a 
moment  will  be  lost  until  I  join  you.  my  whole  force  as  well 
as  I  can  now  judge  will  be  about  three  thousand  Ave 
hundred.  They  are  all  mounted  and  can  reach  you  in  ten  or 
twelve  days  if  we  are  not  disappointed  in  forage  &c.  In  a 
letter  which  I  had  the  honour  to  address  you  shortly  before  I 
left  Frankfort  I  took  the  liberty  to  }-ecommond  the  calling  ou 
Governor  Meigs  for  an  additional  force  of  his  militia  to  enab]*-- 
you  to  make  a  sure  stroke  upon  the  enemy.  I  am  still  of  the 
same  opinion  for  although  you  may  be  restricted  to  a  par- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        533 

ticular  number  to  make  the  decent  into  Canada  you  ought  to 
put  nothing  to  hazard  for  sliould  you  even  ti'ansend  your 
power  if  we  are  fortunate  your  company  will  approve,  the 
measure ;  and  if  otherwise  we  cannot  complain,  I  shall  be  sorry 
to  see  any  attempt  made  to  invade  the  enemys  country  until 
we  are  prepared  to  hold  every  inch  of  ground  that  we  may 
conquer — I  am  inforaied  by  a  letter  from  your  aid  Major 
[David]  Trimble  of  the  23rd  ult.,  that  some  advance  of  pay 
would  be  made  to  the  volunteers  and  that  blankets  could  be 
furnished  to  such  as  were  without  any  although  I  have  not 
communicated  the  information  to  the  troops  it  would  be  most 
grateful  to  them  to  receive  a  small  advance  and  even  a  good 
blanket  to  some  would  be  an  object  as  many  are  poor  men 
and  the  call  has  been  so  sudden  as  not  to  afford  them  the 
chance  of  supplying  themselves  before  they  started — 

I  shall  be  highly  gratified  to  hear  from  you  on  my  march 
and  to  be  apprised  of  so  much  of  your  view  as  may  be  proper 
&  safe  to  communicate  at  the  same  time  believe  that  every  pre- 
caution is  necessary  to  avoid  any  intelligence  falling  into  the 
hands  of  the  enemy  by  which  they  could  counteract  your  de- 
sign. Majr.  [Thomas]  Bodlcy  informed  me  that  there  was  a 
large  quantity  of  corn  at  Cleveland  would  it  not  be  adviseable 
to  have  a  portion  of  it  forwarded  to  Sandusky.  I  beg  you  to 
reflect  how  our  horses  are  to  be  supported  to  send  them  back 
will  be  out  of  the  question  I  would  also  suggest  that  there  is  a 
deficiency  of  arms  at  this  place  by  about  seven  hundred.  I 
should  like  to  be  informed  at  what  point  we  can  be  supplied. 
I  shall  cross  the  Ohio  early  in  the  morning  on  my  way  to  join 
you. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be  Your  mo.  obt. 

Isaac  Shelby 
Mjr.  Genl.  Wm.  Henry  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Meigs 
Head-Quarters,  Seneca  Towns  September  4th,  1813 

Niles'  Register  V,  86 

Dear  Sir: 

Information  recently  received  has  satisfied  me,  that  the  Del- 
aware Indians  near  Piqua  are  in  great  danger  from  the  re- 
sentment of  the  people  in  that  quarter. 

I  regret  that  any  portion  of  the  community  should  thus  ven- 


5:^1  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ture  to  compromise  the  public  faith  and  to  violate  engage- 
nun  Is  solemnly  entered  into.  I  regret  it  the  more,  as  the 
j)()licy  on  the  part  of  the  enemy  to  produce  such  a  state  of 
thinK-^  and  to  excite  discord  and  collisions  between  our  own 
y,vn\)]r  and  the  Indians  attached  to  our  cause,  is  too  manifest 
to  rM-apo  observation,  and  facts  which  have  come  to  my  knowl- 
('<1k«'  convinco  me  that  this  obvious  course  of  policy  has  been 
{i(loi)t(>(l,  and  unless  its  effects  are  immediately  checked,  it 
promises  to  be  but  too  successful.  I  trust  the  authority  of 
your  cxcelloncy,  aided  by  the  good  sense  of  the  community, 
V,  ill  ho  sudicient  to  prevent  those  Indians  from  being  sacrificed 
to  t'als''  iinpj-essions  and  angry  passions.  Did  I  suppose  that 
any  of  tlu-so  were  concerned  in  the  recent  murders  and  depre- 
(!ntiolJ^  committed  upon  the  frontiers  I  would  lose  no  time  in 
].r'«uring  their  apprehension  and  bringing  them  to  justice. 
!  am  assured  by  their  chiefs,  now  here,  that  in  case  it  can 
!>('  proven,  they  will  immediately  apprehend  and  surrender 
them  to  the  civil  authority  of  the  country.  This  is  all  the 
vaufX  nVrid  justice  can  demand.  The  conduct  of  the  Shawanes 
upon  a  late  and  similar  occasion,  ought  to  satisfy  every  one 
that  Ihoy  are  disposed  to  listen  to  and  redress  every  complaint 
whrn  properly  made  and  supported.  When  one  of  their  young 
in*  n  m  July  last  shot  one  of  our  citizens,  he  was  immediately 
Ajjpri'hciulcd  by  the  chiefs  and  surrendered  to  general 
(Thoinan  S.]  Wingate  at  St.  Mary's;  two  of  these  very  Dela- 
^Viin^  Indjj'.n.s  who  have  been  most  strongly  suspected,  have 
lAU]y  i)rovon  their  fidelity  in  a  very  exemplary  manner,  by 
th»'  rrscue  of  one  of  our  officers  from  a  party  of  hostile  In- 
djans.  I  request  your  excellency  to  take  immediate  steps  to 
uJford  .'^Turity  to  these  people.  They  have  thrown  themselves 
u{K>n  m  for  piotection.  The  faith  of  the  country  has  been 
M'l.iTinly  i.lcdgcd  that  this  protection  shall  be  afforded  them. 

Many  of  their  wari-iors  are  now  here  rendering  important 
^  rvire  to  the  army.  If  any  man  has  just  cause  of  complaint 
^kMin.nt  th-rn.  lot  him  come  forward;  he  shall  be  heard  and 
»r,irrs.:ic<i.  Were  I  not  correctly  convinced  that  the  supicions 
*e^imiihvM'  people  are  groundless,  I  should  be  one  of  the  last 
«t?<  n  m  the  country  to  lend  them  countenance  and  support. 

Uii  «  \uu^  acquaintance  with  them  gives  me  some  right  to 
yi<\K^\  .uul  tli.-Jr  recent  conduct,  present  situation  and  future 
in>i^:s,  couvuue  mc  that  their  fidelity  to  the  United  States  is 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        535 

unquestionable.  To  attempt  indiscriminately  to  murder  these 
people,  would  inflict  a  blot  upon  the  national  honor  which 
would  never  be  effaced.  It  would  drive  every  Indian,  in  their 
own  defence,  to  take  up  arms  against  us,  and  it  would  afford 
to  the  enemy  a  subject  of  rejoicing  to  find  us  pursuing  a 
course  of  conduct,  only  to  be  paralleled  by  the  tragic  scenes  of 
Hampton.  I  yet  hope  the  information  I  have  received  upon 
this  subject  may  prove  erroneous,  and  that  my  countrymen 
will  still  manifest  sacred  regard  to  public  faith,  which  has 
heretofore  characterized  the  government  and  community.  But 
the  crisis  is  so  important,  and  the  subject  so  interesting  in 
every  point  of  view,  that  I  should  have  deemed  myself  culpa- 
ble had  I  not  requested  you  to  direct  your  attention  to  it. 

In  a  personal  interview  with  your  excellency,  I  could  give 
you  many  reasons  for  my  opinions,  but  as  they  ought  not  to 
be  committed  to  paper,  I  must  rest  satisfied  with  making  this 
communication.  .    :.^: 

I  am  dear  sir  with  great  regard. 

Your  humble  servant, 

Wm.  Henry  Harrison 
His  Excellency  R.  J.  Meigs 

P.  S.  I  have  been  informed  that  the  man  whose  wife  was 
killed  near  to  Piqua  asserts,  that  he  Imew  the  Indian  who 
killed  her  to  be  a  Delaware.  There  are  persons  now  here 
who  were  at  Brownstown  when  her  scalp  was  brought  in  by 
a  party  of  the  prophet's  Indians. 

B.  G.  Orr  to  Harrison 

Seneka  Towns  7  Sept.  1813. 

Hwr.  Pa.  lil-H3 

Sir: 

When  in  Washington  lately  on  the  subject  of  the  protested 
drafts  of  the  contractors  I  urged  to  the  Secretary  of  War  the 
necessity  of  devising  some  means  to  prevent  the  recurrence  of 
wants  so  fatal  to  their  credit  and  possibly  injurious  to  the 
public  interest  unable  to  ascertain  what  the  wants  of  the  army 
you  command  might  be  and  unwilling  to  give  to  any  one  the 
power  of  drawing  ad  Hbitiim  on  the  public  treasury  he  told 
me  I  must  submit  to  you  an  estimate  of  the  cost  of  each  requi- 
sition that  might  be  made  on  me  for  which  when  approved  by 


536  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

you  as  reasonable,  I  might  draw  without  danger  of  protests. 
For  this  purpose  I  now  enclose  you  a  view  of  what  I  suppose 
the  current  issues  to  recruiting  and  marching  parties  thro  the 
state  of  Ohio  for  the  present  month  will  amount  to  as  well  as 
the  recent  requisition  for  300,000  rations  for  the  proposed  in- 
vasion of  the  enemys  country.  I  hope  you  will  find  it  satis- 
factory and  that  notwithstanding  the  want  of  instruction  from 
the  Secretary  on  the  subject  as  it  does  not  increase  your  re- 
sponsibility you  will  not  decline  this  the  Secretary's  own  ar- 
rangment. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir  with  Respect  Yr.  Most.  Ob.  St. 

,_  .   „    ,  ,T  Benj.  G.  Orr 

Maj.  Genl.  Harrison 

Sept  7,  1813 
The  Contractors  Estimate 

I  suppose  the  current  issues  to  recruiting  and  marching  par- 
ties throughout  the  state  of  Ohio  will  for  the  month  of  Sept. 
amount  to  $5000 

300,000  rations  recently  required  for  the  army 
in  its  operations  against  the  enemy  I  suppose 
will  cost  55000 

"60000 
Sink  a  Town  [Seneca  Town]  7th  Sept.  1813 

The  above  estimate  amounting  to  sixty  thousand  dollars  is 
respectfully  submitted  to  the  consideration  of  Genl.  Harrison. 

Benj.  G.  Orr 
One  of  the  contractors  for  the  8th  Military  District 

A  true  copy 

John  O'Fallon,  A.  D.  Camp. 

Return  of  Provision  now  deposited  at  different  places  on  the 
shore  of  Lak(^  Erie  for  the  use  of  the  N.  W.  array  by  Benj.  G.  Ork  & 
Aauon  Gkeely  Contractors  AuRust  25th  1813 


Pork 

Flour       Whiskey 

So; 

ip 

Candies 

Bbl   Rations 

Bbl 

Rations  Gals 

Ration 

Pound  Ration 

Pound  Rations 

513    130453 

701 

132220  1933 

C1S5G 

2000 

50000 

350   23333 

7     1802 

97 

1G878   GO 

2112 

18     478,8 

80 

13972  3000 

90000 

G     1590 

25 

4300 

644   144,704 

903 

1G8130  4992 

159908 

2000 

50000 

350   23333 

HARRISON:     MESSAGP:S  AND  LETTERS        537 

Vinognr  Salt 

(tals.     Ilalions    Bbl     Rations  At  what  place  deposited 

1100        110000      05        520000  Clcaveland 

10         80,000  Huron 

Grand  River 
Vci'inillion 


1100        110000      75        COOOOO 

Signed, 

On-  &  Gi-eelcy  Contractor  for  the  N.  W.  Army 

(A  true  Copy) 
John  O'Fallox,  .4.  D.  Camp. 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters  Seneca  Town  8th  Sept.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  lhU-lU7 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  I  am  now  in  complelo 
readiness  to  embark  the  troops  the  moment  Govr.  Shelby  shall 
arrive.  I  shall  march  from  hence  for  the  margin  of  the  Lake 
in  three  days  and  shall  lose  no  time  in  prosecuting  the  contem- 
plated offensive  measures. 

The  Catallion  of  the  U.  S.  Rifle  Regiment  and  the  recruits 
from  Knoxville  for  the  24th  Regiment  will  I  fear  not  arrive 
in  time  but  we  must  do  without  them. 

Upon  reference  to  my  late  letters  I  find  that  I  have  not  com- 
municated the  result  of  the  mission  sent  by  the  Wyandot  chief 
to  the  hostile  Indians.  Their  arrival  at  Brownstown  was  im- 
mediatelj^  communicated  to  the  British  and  they  were  obliged 
to  deliver  their  speech  which  was  intended  for  the  Wyandots 
alone  to  a  general  council  of  all  the  chiefs  at  which  [Matthew] 
Elliott  and  [Alexander]  McKee  were  present.  The  answer 
was  given  by  Round  Head  who  is  entirely  in  the  British  in- 
terest and  was  such  as  Elliott  dictated. 

A  private  message  was  hov/ever  sent  by  Walk  in  the  Water 
the  principal  chief  of  the  British  Wyandots  and  a  man  of  good 
character  that  he  would  use  his  utmost  exertions  to  induce 
the  Indians  to  abandon  the  British  and  that  he  had  deter- 
mined not  to  fight  us  but  upon  our  advance  to  seize  the  Huron 
church  at  Sandwitch  with  all  the  waj'riors  he  could  engage  to 

37— 22CC1 


r.:'ajpCa^4i'B'..'.-----'Jto<* 


538  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

assist  him  and  defend  himself  against  the  British  and  their 
Indians. 

Commodore  Perry  has  just  sent  me  three  American  citizens 
wlio  came  from  Detroit  nine  days  ago.  They  had  taken  great 
pains  to  ascertain  the  enemies  force  previously  to  their  coming 
off.  They  make  the  number  of  Indians  from  1800  to  2000 
militia  1000  Regulars  800  effectives. 

The  Billious  and  intermitant  fevers  are  the  worst  enemies 
we  have  to  encounter  the  number  of  sick  decreases  here  but  at 
Fort  I\Ieigs  and  Lower  Sandusky  nearly  half  the  men  are  on 
the  sick  report. 

]\Iajor  Haines  has  resigned  the  appointment  of  Assist<int 
Adjt.  Genl.  I  had  no  alternative  but  to  accept  Col.  [Edmund 
P.]  Gains  in  the  Execution  of  the  duties  of  Adjt.  Genl.  having 
no  other  officer  of  the  line  capable  of  performing  the  duties 
of  that  office, 

1  have  the  Honor  to  enclose  you  the  copy  of  a  letter  from 
Mr.  [B.  G.]  Orr  the  contractor.  [Sept  7  above]  Having  re- 
ceived no  directions  from  you  on  the  subject  on  which  it  is 
written  I  could  not  authorise  the  drafts  he  speaks  of.  I  think 
it  proper  however  to  state  that  I  have  called  upon  him  for 
300,000  rations  to  be  issued  on  the  Canada  shore  but  of  this 
quantity  he  has  on  hand  much  the  greater  part  which  was 
purchased  at  Cleveland  or  near  it  with  the  money  vrhich  he 
received  for  the  bills  he  drew  on  your  department  previously 
to  his  going  to  the  seat  of  government  the  last  time.  I  enclose 
the  schedule  of  the  provisions  which  his  partner  i\Ir.  [Aaron] 
Greely  returned  as  being  on  hand  on  the  25th  ultimo  at  Cleve- 
land and  in  the  neighbourhood  of  that  place.  In  a  letter  from 
IMr.  Orr  of  the  29th  he  contradicts  Mr.  Greely's  report  of  the 
pork  on  hand  making  it  two  hundred  barrells  less,  but  there 
are  at  Lower  Sandusky  thirty-five  barrells  the  property  of  the 
contractor  which  are  not  included  in  the  return.  One  hundred 
and  sixty  five  barrels  of  pork  then  deducted  from  the  schedule 
it  exhibits  a  true  state  of  the  provisions  on  hand  to  answer 
the  demand  of  the  300,000  rations,  the  ballance  must  bo  pro- 
cured by  purchase.  I  am  thus  particular  to  enable  you  to 
judge  of  the  sum  which  it  may  be  necessary  to  advance  to  IMr. 
Orr.  I  demanded  the  300,000  rations  to  ensure  a  supply  upon 
our  first  arrival  in  Canada  by  uniting  his  exertions  with  those 
of  our  commissary. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        539 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  from  the 
Genl.  and  field  officers  upon  the  subject  of  hospital  stores  for 
tlio  army.  I  agree  with  them  entirely  as  to  the  deficiency  of 
those  stores. 

T  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  Great  Respect  Sir  Your  Hum. 

Svt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

Honblc  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secretary  at  War 

Perry  to  Harrison 

U.  S.  Brig  Niagara,  off  the  Western  Sister  &c. 

September  10th,  1813.  4  P.  M. 

McAfee,  History,  J5/^ 

Dear  General: 

W^e  have  met  the  enemy  and  they  are  ours — two  ships,  two 
brigs,  one  schooner  and  a  sloop. 

Yours  with  great  respect  and  esteem. 
Oliver  Hazard  Perry 

Harrison  to  Shelby 
Head  Quarters,  Seneca,  12th  September,  1813 

McAfee,  History,  353 

You  will  find  arms  at  Upper  Sandusky;  also  a  considerable 
(luantity  at  Lower  Sandusky.  I  set  out  from  this  place  in  an 
hour.  Our  fieet  has  beyond  all  doubt  met  that  of  the  enemy. 
'I'iie  day  before  yesterday  an  incessant  and  tremendous  can- 
nonading was  heard  in  the  direction  of  Maiden  by  a  detach- 
mout  of  troops  coming  from  fort  Meigs.  It  lasted  two  hours. 
I  am  all  anxiety  for  the  event.  There  will  be  no  occasion  for 
your  halting  here.  Lower  Sandusky  affords  fine  grazing. 
\\'ith  respect  to  a  station  for  your  horses,  there  is  the  best  in 
the  world  immediately  at  the  place  of  embarkation.  The  San- 
dusky bay,  lake  Erie,  and  Portage  river  form  between  them 
a  i)eiiinsula,  the  isthmus  of  which  is  only  one  mile  and  a  half 
aci-oss,  A  i'ence  of  that  length,  and  a  suflicient  guard  left 
there,  would  make  all  the  horses  of  the  army  safe.  It  would 
enclose  fifty  or  sixty  thousand  acres,  in  which  are  many  culti- 
vated fields,  which  having  been  abandoned,  are  now  grown  up 
with  the  finest  grass.  Your  sick  had  better  be  left  at  Upper 
Sandusky  or  here.  Harrison 


r>10  INDIANA  lIISTORICATv  COLLECTIONS 

Perry  to  Secretary  of  Navy 

Sept.  12,  1813 

McAfee,  History,  059 

Sir: 

It  has  ])lGased  the  Almighty  to  give  the  arms  of  the  U. 
States,  a  signal  victory  over  their  enemies  on  this  lake.  The 
British  squadron,  consisting  of  two  brigs,  two  ships,  one 
schooner,  and  one  sloop  have  this  moment,  surrendered  to  the 
foi'ce  under  my  command,  after  a  sharp  conflict. 

Perry 

Perry  to  Harrison 
United  States  schooner  Ariel,  September  15,  1813 

Nilcs'  Register  V,  2G3 

Sir: 

The  very  great  assistance  in  the  action  of  the  10th  inst., 
derived  from  those  men  you  were  pleased  to  send  on  board 
the  squadron,  render  it  a  duty  to  return  you  my  sincere  thanks 
for  so  timely  a  reinforcement.  In  fact  sir,  I  may  say,  without 
those  men  the  victory  w'ould  not  have  been  achieved ;  and 
equally  I  assure  you,  that  those  officers  and  men  behaved  as 
became  good  soldiers  and  seamen.  Those  who  v/ere  under  my 
immediate  observation  evinced  great  ardor  and  bravery.  Cap- 
tain [Ilcnry  B.]  Brevort,  of  the  second  regiment  of  infantry, 
serving  on  board  the  Niagara,  I  beg  leave  to  recommend  par- 
ticularly to  your  notice;  he  is  a  brave  and  gallant  odlcer,  and 
as  far  as  I  am  capable  of  judging  an  excellent  one.  I  am  con- 
N'inced  you  will  present  the  merit  of  this  officer  to  the  view  of 
the  honorable  seci'etary  of  war,  as  I  shall  to  the  honorable  sec- 
retaiy  of  the  navy. 

Very  respectfully,  I  am  sir.  Your  obedient  servant, 

^,  .  Oliver  II.  Pr:RRY 

Major  Gen.  Wm.  IL  Harrison, 

Comma uder-in-diicf  of  N.  IV.  Army 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  8G) 

Head  Quarters  Mouth  of  Portage  Pjver  on  Lake  Erie 

15th  Sept.  1813 
t.  Har.  Pa.  148,  JA9 

You  will  have  been  infornied  froni  the  letter  of  Commodore 


Vor\-y  to  tlio  Sccvotary  of  tlic  Navy  of  ih'^  Di'iliiaiii  naval  ^•ic- 
lo)'y  (^blaiiU'C!  lA'  liiiii  and  Ih''^  capiavo  of  the  \\]\ok'  ol'  1;];'.  oac- 
mJL'S  fiotina  oa  this  \akij.  1  aia-;\T('  laav  tlie  day  bofo..;^:;  y^s- 
['^■'•day  wilii  a  part  oi  tiio  tL'oo]js  fi-cja  Soneca  {own  and  ihis 
r](>!  i^iiij;  Gcid.  [Lewis]  ('as.^  Iia-  bj'(a(giit  oi^  'he  Temahid-:;!-. 
(;ov\-vnor  [bu(ac]  Sludb}'  lias  a'-'O  ii'vivcd  \.<:h  Ins  nriilia. 
Wo  aro  unsii\  ei"iji;a^;';!ul  taabaai-iiiiji  uie  :>toj'cs  and  artillery  raid 
by  \'n:'  day  after  to^aorrow  th*'  wliolo  v/ill  be  alloat.  Gen). 
[Dujuaii]  ]\k-Aj'thii]'  w'.U  joia  nie  tlie  day  ai'ter  at  the  Bass 
Islands  v/itji  tlie  troopr;  i-o]n  Fort  Tdeigv  and  on  the  follovvdng- 
ni^rht  if  the  \,'eathcr  per. ails  we  shall  sail  for  the  Canada 
sliore.  As  soon  as  I  ]ia\(  driven  tlie  enemy  from  IMalden  and 
Detroit  I  shall  despatcl".  detaclrinent  for  the  reduction  of 
?lac]dnac  and  St.  Josep]!'"-  a.nd  will  expect  your  orders  for  rjiy 
funheA-  Pxiox'i.nients.  The  upper  part  of  the  province  of  Upper 
Canmada  being  cleared  of  the  enemy  unless  it  should  appear 
ex])edicnt  to  pursue  the  Indians  the  army  under  my  connnand 
raii'.lii;  nioN'o  do^vn  tlie  lake  to  long  poiiit  or  belov,"  it  and  co-op- 
eretc  with  that  under  Gonl.  [James]  Wilkinson.  From  my 
pv:  ;.;.nt  imj;]-essions  with  regard!  to  our  affairs  in  that  quaiter 
1  siiould  if  I  considered  myself  authorised  to  do  so  immediately 
proceed  to  the  lower  end  of  the  lake.  Commodore  Perry  had 
out  with  him  in  the  late  actittu  about  one  hundred  and  thirty 
of  my  men,  he  speaks  in  the  highest  to-ms  of  their  conduct. 
.Maj.  [E.  D.]  Wood  had  aridved  at  this  place  with  two  com- 
jiaiiJes  wJuTi  the  Commodore  returned  to  Put  in  Bay  lie  im- 
mediately sent  him  a  reijifoi'coneut  of  fifty  miii  \-drich  were 
of  great  service  in  secairing  the  prisoners. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  \ouv  Hunibl. 

Servt.  „,  ^-. 

W'JLLM.  Henry  rlAKRisoN 

The  Honble.  Jno.  Armstrong.  Scciefarii  of  War 

Speech  of  Tecu?.iseh 

Amiierst.-eefg.  Sf^pt.  IS,  1813 

Nilcs'  Register,  V,  IT.'f. 

In  the  name  of  the  Indian  chiefs  and  wairi'jrs,  to  major-gen- 
'  ra]  Proctor.  ;:.•;  the  reiJivscntvdive  of  their  rii^d  father — the 
ki  -g. 

i  .\'!^i!ER,  iisb  a  Lo  >our  chddren;      i'ou  ]ia\c  them  now  all 
be- ore  you. 


512  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Tlic  war  bcfoi'c  this,  our  British  father  gave  the  hatchet 
\o  his  red  cliildren,  when  our  chiefs  were  alive.  They  iwr 
liOW  dead.  In  that  war,  our  fatlier  was  throvrn  on  his  back 
by  the  Americans,  and  our  father  took  them  by  the  hand  with- 
out our  kjiowledge;  and  we  are  afraid  that  our  father  will  do 
so  again  at  this  time. 

Summer  before  last,  when  I  came  forward  with  my  red 
brethren,  and  was  ready  to  take  up  the  hatchet  in  favor  of 
our  British  father,  we  were  told  not  to  be  in  a  hurry,  that 
he  had  not  yet  determined  to  fight  the  Americans. 

Listen!  When  war  was  declared,  our  father  stood  up  and 
gave  us  the  tomahawk,  and  told  us  that  he  was  then  ready  to 
strike  the  Americans;  that  he  wanted  our  assistance  and  that 
he  would  certainly  get  us  our  lands  back,  which  the  Americans 
had  taken  from  us. 

Listen !  You  told  us,  at  that  time,  to  bring  forward  our 
families  to  this  place;  and  we  did  so;  and  you  promised  to 
take  care  of  them,  and  that  they  should  want  for  nothing, 
while  the  men  would  go  and  fight  the  enemy.  That  we  need 
not  trouble  ourselves  about  the  enemy's  garrison ;  that  vre 
knew  notliing  about  them,  and  that  our  father  would  attend 
to  that  part  of  the  business.  You  also  told  your  red  children, 
that  you  would  take  care  of  your  garrison  here,  which  made 
our  hearts  glad. 

Listen !  When  we  were  last  to  the  Pvapids,  it  is  true  we  gave 
you  little  assistance.  It  is  hard  to  fight  people  who  live  like 
gj'ound  hogs. 

Father  listen!  Oui-  fieet  has  gone  out;  we  know  they  have 
fought ;  we  have  heard  the  great  guns ;  but  know  nothing  of 
v/hat  has  happened  to  our  father  with  one  arm.  Our  ships 
liave  gone  one  way,  and  we  are  much  astonished  to  see  our 
father  tying  up  everything  and  preparing  to  run  av\ay  the 
other,  without  letting  his  red  children  know  what  his  inten- 
tions ai-e.  You  always  told  us  to  remain  here  and  take  care  of 
oui-  lands;  it  made  our  liearts  glad  to  hear  that  was  your  wish. 
Our  great  father,  the  king,  is  our  head,  and  you  represer:t 
him.  You  always  told  us,  that  you  would  never  draw  your 
foot  off  British  gi'ound;  but  now,  father  we  see  you  are  dra^^'- 
ing  back,  and  we  are  sorry  to  see  our  father  doing  so  without 
seeing  the  enemy.  We  must  compare  our  father's  conduct  to 
a  fat  animal,  that  carries  its  tail  upon  its  back,  but  when  af- 
f)-ighted,  he  drops  it  between  his  legs  and  runs  off. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        543 

Listen  Father!  The  Americans  have  not  yet  defeated  us  by 
land;  neither  are  we  sure  that  they  have  done  so  by  water; 
we,  therefore,  wish  to  remain  hero,  and  fight  our  enemy,  if 
they  should  make  their  appearance.  If  they  defeat  us,  we  v/ill 
then  retreat  with  our  father. 

At  the  battle  of  the  Rapids  last  war,  the  Americans  certainly 
defeated  us ;  and  when  we  retreated  to  our  father's  fort  at  that 
place  the  gates  were  shut  against  us.  We  were  afraid  that  it 
vv^ould  now  be  the  case;  ))ut  instead  of  that  we  now  see  our 
British  father  preparing  to  march  out  of  his  garrison. 

Father!  You  have  got  the  arms  and  ammunition  Vviiich  our 
great  father  sent  for  his  red  children.  If  you  have  an  idea  of 
going  away,  give  them  to  us,  and  you  may  go  and  welcome,  for 
us.  Our  lives  are  in  the  hands  of  the  Great  Spirit.  We  are 
determined  to  defend  our  lands,  and  if  it  be  his  will  we  wish 
to  leave  our  bones  upon  them. 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quakters  Kingston  19th  Sept.  1813 
Har.  Fa.  IS 7-1 91 
Sm: 

The  centre  division  of  the  Upper  Canada  army  is  placed  in  a  situ- 
ation veiy  critical  and  one  novel  in  the  system  of  war  that  of  investing 
a  force  vastly  superior  in  numbers  within  a  strongly  intrenched  posi- 
tion. It  was  adopted  and  has  been  maintained  from  a  confident  ex- 
pectation that  with  the  cooperation  of  the  squadron  under  your  com- 
mand a  combined  attack  ere  this  could  have  been  effected  on  the  enemy 
at  Fort  George  with  every  prospect  of  success.  To  the  local  disad- 
vantages of  the  position  occupied  by  our  army  have  vmhappily  been 
added  disease  and  desertion  to  a  degree  calling  for  immediate  remedy. 
We  are  therefore  required  to  proceed  with  the  Fleet  under  your  com- 
mand with  the  least  possible  delay  to  the  head  of  the  Lake  affording 
sufficient  convoy  to  tlie  small  vessels  containing  those  stores  and  sup- 
plies of  which  the  army  is  in  the  most  pressing  want.  Upon  your 
arrival  near  the  Head  Quarters  of  the  Center  Division  you  will  consult 
with  Major  General  De  Rottenburg  who  will  unite  in  his  pex'son  the 
civil  and  military  command  in  upper  Canada  upon  my  withdrawing 
from  the  provinces.  Upon  the  eligibility  of  a  combined  attack  for  the 
purpose  of  dislodging  the  enemy  from  the  position  of  Fort  George  by 
a  i-apid  foi'ward  movement  of  the  army  bringing  up  in  Battery  at  the 
same  time  the  heavy  ordnance  mortars  and  howitzers  now  embarked. 
This  attack  must  be  supported  by  the  countenance  of  your  squadron  and 
the  fire  of  such  vessels  as  are  armed  with  a  description  of  ordnance 
favourable  to  it.  Should  this  attempt  appear  to  you  to  be  attended 
with  too  great  hazard  to  the  squadron  under  youi"  command,  under  the 


544  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

possible  circumstance  of  the  enemy's  aiipcarir.p;  on  the  Luke  you  will 
in  that  case  distinctly  state  your  sentiments  to  I^.Iajor  General  De  Rot- 
tenburg  who  will  immediately  upon  a-ccrtainint^-  your  inability  to  assist 
him  to  take  measures  for  cvacuatinu-  the  position  he  now  occupies  in 
the  execution  of  which  movement  you  will  g:ive  his  army  every  support 
and  assistance  consistent  v.ith  the  safety  of  your  vessels  and  having 
performed  this  service  you  will  p-usLie  such  measures  as  shall  appear 
most  probable  speedily  to  ensure  the  acquisition  of  the  naval  ascendancy. 
You  are  already  acquainted  v.-ith  the  decided  line  of  conduct  which  I 
wish  to  be  observed  on  Lake  Erie  by  Captain  [Robert  H.]  Barclay  and 
you  will  not  fail  to  impress  en  tluit  officer  the  absolute  necessity  of 
regaining  the  naval  superiority  arid  to  preserve  uninterrupted  the  ir.- 
tcicourse  between  Amhurstburgh  and  Long  Point  in  order  that  the  sup- 
plies and  stores  in  depot  at  the  latter  place  and  at  the  Head  of  the 
Lake  may  be  transported  in  safety  to  the  Right  Division. 

The  Flotilla  of  Transports  on  Lake  Ontario  are  to  be  kept  employed 
as  long  as  the  season  will  admit  in  the  conveyance  of  the  provisions  and 
other  supplies  collected  at  Kingston  and  destined  for  the  Right  and 
Center  Division  of  the  araiy  and  they  are  to  receive  from  your  force 
the  necessary  protection. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir  Your  most  Obedient  and  Humble  Servant 
George  Prevost,  Comnnander  of  the  Forces 
To  Commodore  Sir  James  Lucas  Yeo. 

Letter  found  amongst  Genl.  Proctors  papers  from  Sir 
George  Provost  to  Sir  Jas.  Yeo.  I  shall  send  a  detachment  to 
Long  Point  to  take  or  destroy  any  depot  of  provisions  they 
may  have  there. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  sir  your  humb. 
servt 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  J.  i\I.  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secy,  of  Wai\ 

Secretary  of  \^''ar  to  Harrison 
War  Department  Sackett's  Harbor  22nd  Sept.  ISlo 

Ear.  Pa.  90 

Sir 

Information  has  reached  me  thro  various  but  unoOicial 
channels  that  Commodore  Perry  had  captured  the  vrholo  of 
the  British  fleet  on  Lake  Erie.  If  this  be  true  it  is  matter  of 
much  personal  and  public  cojigratulation.  It  enables  you  to 
make  sure  of  i\Ialden  and  as  a  subsequent  measure  to  carry 
your  main  body  down  the  lake  and  by  throwing  yourself  into 
De  Roltenberg's  rear  to  compel  him  to  quit  his  new  position 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        545 

befoi'G  fort  GcorgG.  After  Gcnl.  [James]  Wilkinson  sJiall  have 
left  that  place  there  will  be  found  on  the  two  sid(  s  of  the 
Niagara  a  force  amounting  to  three  thousand  men  wlio  will 
be  subjected  to  your  order.  By  giving  this  new  direction  to 
your  operations,  you  will  readily  perceive  of  how  much  more 
importance  it  is  in  the  opinion  of  the  Executive  to  ber.t  or  to 
cxpell  the  enemy  from  the  country  lying  between  tlio  tvro 
lakes,  Erie  and  Ontario,  than  to  pursue  the  Indians  irito  their 
woody  and  distant  recesses.  A  few  days  will  put  us  in  motion 
from  this  point. 

;Major  Genl.  HARRISON 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
Head  Quarters  Bass  Island  22nd  Sept.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  150 

Sir: 

The  greater  part  of  the  troops  are  here  with  me  and  the 
whole  will  I  believe  be  up  by  twelve  o'clock.  I  shall  proceed 
as  far  as  the  Middle  Sister  in  the  course  of  tonight  and  tomor- 
]'ow  and  in  the  follov/ing  night  get  so  near  the  enemies  coast 
as  to  land  two  or  three  vessels  below  I^.Ialden  by  eight  o'clock 
in  the  morning.  These  prospects  may  however  be  retarded 
by  adverse  wind.  Commodoie  Perry  gives  me  every  assist- 
ance in  his  power  but  his  crews  were  so  much  cut  up  in  the 
late  action  that  he  cannot  navigate  his  vessels  without  the  aid 
of  my  men.  In  obedience  to  your  order  to  settle  the  accounts 
of  the  Kentucky  militia  for  back  rations  I  have  appointed 
Lewis  Sanders  Esqr.  a  citizen  of  Lexington  of  the  greatest  re- 
spectability to  do  the  business  and  have  authorized  him  to 
draw  upon  you  for  the  amount. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  your  humbl. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Honble  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Seoctaiij  of  War. 

Perry  to  Secretary  of  Navy 

U.  S.  schooner  Ariel,  :\Ialden  Harbor, 

23d  Sept.  1813,  5  P.  ^L 
X;7('.s*  Registtr  V,  117 

Sir  : 

I  have  the  honor  to  acquaint  you  that  the  army  under  ma- 


546  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

jor-general  Harrison  have  this  moment  marched  into  Maiden 
without  opposition,  and  that  the  sqiiadi'on  are  now  at  anchor 
ofi'  tlic  town. 

I  have  the  lionor  to  be  etc. 

To  the  Sec.  of  the  Navy  0.  II.  Perry. 

General  Orders 

Head  Quarters  on  Board  the  U.  S.  Aeriel 

September  27th  1813 

Hot.  ra.  153-160 

As  it  is  the  intention  of  the  General  to  land  the  army  on 
the  enemy's  coast  the  following  will  be  the  order  of  debarka- 
tions of  march  and  of  battle : 

The  rig-ht  wing  of  the  army  will  be  composed  of  the  Ken- 
tucky volunteers  under  the  command  of  his  Excellency  Gov- 
ernor Shelb-y  acting  as  Major  General.  The  left  wing  of  the 
light  corps  of  Lieut.  Col.  [James  V.]  Ball  and  the  Brigades  of 
General  [Duncan]  McArthur  and  [Lewis]  Cass.  This  ar- 
rangement is  made  with  a  view  to  the  localities  of  the  ground 
upon  which  the  troops  are  to  act  and  the  composition  of  the 
enemy's  forces  and  is  calculated  in  marching  up  the  lake  oi- 
strait  to  place  our  regular  troops  in  the  open  ground  on  the 
lake,  where  they  will  probably  be  opposed  by  the  British  reg- 
ulars, and  the  Kentucky  volunteers  in  the  woods  which  it  is 
presumed  v/ill  be  occupied  by  the  enemy's  militia  and  Indians. 
When  the  signal  is  given  for  putting  to  the  shore,  the  corps  of 
Lt.  Col.  Ball  will  precede  the  left  wing;  the  regiment  of  volun- 
teer riflemen  the  right  wing.  These  corps  will  land  with  the 
utmost  celerity  consistently  with  preservation  of  good  Order 
and  as  soon  as  landed  will  seize  the  most  favorable  position 
for  annoying  the  enemy  and  covering  the  disembarkation  of 
the  troops  of  the  line.  Genl.  Cass's  Brigade  will  follow  Col. 
Balls  corps  and  General  Calimes  [Calmes]  the  volunteer  Riffle- 
men.  The  regiments  will  land  and  form  in  succession  upon 
those  which  precede  them.  The  I'ight  v/ing  with  its  left  in 
front  displaying  to  the  right  and  the  left  wing  with  its  right  in 
front  displaying  to  the  loft.  The  Brigades  of  Genls.  [John 
Edward]  King,  [James]  Allen  and  [Samuel]  Caldwell  will 
form  successively  to  the  right  of  General  Calmes.  General 
McArthurs  and   [David]   Chile's  Bj-igades  will  form  the  re- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        5i7 

serve.  The  General  will  command  in  person  the  Brigades  of 
Genls.  Cass  and  Calmes  assisted  by  ]\Iajor  General  [William] 
Henry,  His  excellency  Governor  Shelby  will  have  the  imme- 
diate command  of  the  three  Brigades  on  the  right  assisted  by 
Major  Genl.  [Joseph]  Desha.  As  soon  as  the  troops  are  dis- 
embarked the  boats  are  to  be  immediately  sent  back  to  the 
fleet.  It  will  be  observed  that  the  order  of  landing  here  pre- 
scribed is  somewhat  that  of  direct  Eschellons  deployed  into 
line  upon  the  advanced  corps  of  the  right  and  left  wing.  It 
is  the  intention  of  the  General  ho^vcver  that  all  the  troops 
who  are  provided  with  boats,  should  land  in  as  quick  succes- 
sion as  possible,  and  the  General  Officers  commanding  towards 
the  extremities  of  the  line  are  authorised  to  deviate  from  the 
arrangement  to  counteract  any  movement  of  the  enemy  by 
landing  any  part  of  their  commands,  previously  to  the  forma- 
tion of  the  corps  which  is  herein  directed  to  precede  them. 
The  Corps  of  Lt.  Colo.  Ball  and  the  Volunteer  riffle  regiment 
will  maintain  the  position  they  occupy  on  landing  until  the 
troops  of  the  line  are  formed  to  support  them.  They  will  then 
retire  through  the  intervals  of  the  line,  or  to  the  flanks  and 
form  in  the  rear  of  the  line. 

A  detachment  of  artillery  with  a  six  four  and  three  pounder 
and  Howitzer  will  land  with  the  advanced  light  corps  the  rest 
of  the  artillery  will  be  held  in  reserve  and  landed  at  such 
points  as  ]\Iajor  [E.  D.]  Wood  may  direct.  The  point  of  land- 
ing for  the  reserve  under  Brigadier  Genl.  ]\IcArthur  cannot 
now  be  designated  it  will  be  made  to  support  any  point  of  the 
line  which  may  require  aid  or  be  formed  on  the  flanks  as  cir- 
cumstances may  render  necessary.  The  arrangement  for 
landing  the  troops  will  be  made  entirely  under  the  direction 
of  an  oflicer  of  the  Navy  whom  Commodore  Perry  has  been 
so  obliging  as  to  off'er  for  that  purpose.  The  debarkation  of 
the  troops  will  be  covered  by  the  cannon  of  the  vessels.  The 
troops  being  landed  and  the  enemy  driven  off  or  not  opposing 
the  landing  the  army  will  change  its  front  to  the  left  and  form 
in  order  of  battle  in  the  following  manner:  The  two  Brigades 
of  regular  troops  and  two  of  the  Volunteers  to  be  formed  in 
two  lines  at  right  angles  to  the  shore  of  the  Lake.  General 
McArthurs  Brigade  and  Calmes  to  form  the  front  line,  and 
Cass  and  Chiles  the  second  line;  the  regular  troops  still  on. the 
left,  that  flank  of  both  lines  resting  on  the  shore  the  distance 


51S  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

between  the  two  lines  will  be  three  hundi'ed  yards.  The  re- 
maining three  Brigades  of  Volunteers  will  be  drawn  up  in  a 
single  line  of  two  ranks,  at  right  angles  to  the  line  of  march 
its  head  upon  the  right  of  the  front  line  forming  a  crotchet 
(en  potcncc)  with  that  line  and  extending  beyond  the  second 
line.  The  Corps  of  Lt.  Col.  Ball  will  form  the  advance  of  the 
left  wing  at  the  distance  of  300  yards,  the  regiment  of  Riffle 
Volunteers  the  advance  of  the  right  wing  at  the  same  difitance. 
Some  light  pieces  of  artillery  will  be  placed  in  the  road 
leading  up  the  lake  and  at  such  other  points  as  Major  Wood 
may  direct.  When  the  order  is  given  for  marching  the  first 
and  second  Hnes  will  advance  by  files  from  the  heads  of  com- 
panies in  other  words  these  tv/o  lines  will  form  two  columns 
marching  by  their  flanks  by  companies  at  entire  distances. 
The  Three  Brigades  on  the  right  flank,  will  be  faced  to  the 
left  and  marched  forward,  the  head  of  this  column  still  form- 
ing 671  potencc  with  the  front  line.  It  is  probable  that  the  two 
Brigades  of  the  front  line  will  extend  from  the  lake  some  dis- 
tance into  the  woods  on  the  right  flank  and  it  is  desirable  it 
should  do  so.  But  should  it  be  othervv'ise  and  the  crochet  or 
angle  be  at  any  time  on  the  open  gi-ound  His  Excellency  Gov- 
ernor Shelby  will  immediately  prolong  the  front  line  to  the 
right  by  adding  to  it  as  many  companies  of  the  leading  brigade 
of  the  flank  column  as  will  bring  the  angle  and  consequently 
the  flank  column  itself  completely  v/ithin  the  woods.  It  is  to 
be  presunied  that  the  enemy  will  make  their  attack  upon  the 
army  on  its  march  that  their  regular  troops  will  form  their 
right  upon  the  lake,  their  militia  occupy  the  ground  between 
the  regulars  and  the  Vv^oods  and  the  Indians  and  the  woods. 
The  formation  herein  prescribed  is  intended  to  resist  an  ar- 
rangement of  this  kind — should  the  gcnl.  conjecture  on  this 
subject  prove  correct  as  it  must  be  evident  that  the  right  of 
the  enemy  cannot  be  turned,  and  on  that  v/ing  his  best  troops 
must  be  placed  it  will  be  propei'  to  I'efuse  him  our  left  and 
direct  our  principal  effort  to  uncover  the  left  flank  of  his  reg- 
ulars by  driving  off  his  militia.  In  the  event  here  supposed 
therefore  it  will  be  proper  to  bring  up  a  part  O)'  the  whole  of 
Cenl.  Cass's  Brigade  to  assist  the  charge  made  by  Genl. 
Calmes  or  that  the  former  should  change  position  with  the 
Bi'igade  of  Volunteer  in  the  second  line.  Should  the  General 
think  it  safe  to  ordei-  the  Vvhole  of  Cass's  B)-igade  to  the  right 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        549 

without  replacing  it  with  another  Cenl.  Cass  will  march  it  to 
the  right  formed  in  oblique  eschellons  of  compaiiics.  It  will 
be  the  business  of  Genl.  McArthu]'  in  the  event  of  his  wint^ 
being  refused  to  watch  the  motions  of  the  enemy  (and  with 
the  assistance  of  the  artillery)  prevent  his  front  line  at  least 
from  interrupting  the  progress  of  our  right.  Should  the  ei">- 
cmys  militia  be  defeated,  the  brigade  of  ours  in  advance  will 
immediately  wheel  upon  the  flank  of  the  British  regulars,  and 
Genl.  McArthur  will  advance  to  attack  them  in  front.  In  the 
mean  time  his  Excellency  Governor  Shelby  can  use  the  Brig- 
ade in  reserve  of  the  second  line  to  prolong  the  flank  line  from 
its  front  or  loft  to  reinforce  any  weak  part  of  the  line.  In  all 
cases  v/here  troops  in  advance  are  obliged  to  retire  through 
those  which  are  advancing  to  support  them  it  will  be  done  by 
companies  in  file  which  will  retire  through  the  ir.tcrvals  of 
the  advancing  line  arid  will  immediately  form  in  the  rear.  The 
light  troops  v/ill  be  particularly  governed  by  this  direction. 

The  disposition  of  the  Troops  on  the  right  flank  is  such  as 
the  commanding  general  thinks  best  calculated  to  resist  an 
attack  from  Indians  which  is  only  to  be  expected  from  that 
quarter.  His  Excellency  govr.  Shelby  will  however  use  his 
discretion  in  making  any  alteration  which  his  experience  and 
judgment  may  dictate  Lt.  Col.  Ball,  Lt.  Col.  [James]  Simrall 
and  the  General  Ofliccrs  commanding  on  the  flank  line  are  to 
send  out  small  detachments  in  advance  of  the  tw^o  former 
corj)s  and  to  the  flank  of  the  latter  should  they  discover  the 
enemy  in  force  immediate  notice  will  be  sent  to  the  lines.  The 
General  commanding  on  the  spot  will  immediately  order  the 
sigiial  for  formin.g  in  order  of  battle  which  Vs'ill  be  the  beat 
"to  arms." 

All  signals  will  be  immediately  repeated  by  all  the  drums 
of  the  liiie.  The  signal  foi'  the  whole  to  halt  is  the  retreat. 
Drums  will  be  distributed  along  the  heads  of  companies  and 
the  taps  occasionally  given  to  regulate  their  march. 

Lt.  Col.  Ball  and  Simrall  are  to  keep  the  General  constantly 
advised  of  the  discoveries  made  by  tlie  advanced  parties.  When 
it  shall  become  necessary  for  the  corps  of  Ball  and  Simrall 
to  retii'o  they  v.  ill  form  on  the  flank  or  in  the  rear  of  IMcAr- 
thu]'s  and  Calmes  Brigades  and  receive  the  orders  of  the  Bri- 
gadici's  respectively. 

Bi'igadiei-  Genl.  Cass  will  desigiuile  such  oHicers  as  he  may 


550  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

deem  proper  to  assist  Captain  Elliott  of  the  navy  in  the  ar- 
rangement of  the  boats  and  the  debarkation  of  the  troops.  The 
Genl.  will  be  the  signal  for  the  whole  to  move. 

Detachment  to  reinforce  the  army  below. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  your  humble 
svt 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

Truly  copied  from  the  Original  Robert  Butler  A.  A.  Adj. 
Gen. 

By  command,  Edmund  P.  Gaines  Col  Adj.  Genl. 
Honble.  John  Armstrong  Secy,  of  War. 

Harrison  to  Gov.  Meigs 
Amherstsburg,  27th  of  September,  1813  10  o'clock  P.  II. 

Niles'  Register  V,  117 

Dear  Sir: 

The  enemy  have  given  up  this  important  place  without  op- 
position ;  having  destroyed  the  fort  and  all  the  public  buildings 
which  were  immensely  extensive  and  valuable,  particularly  the 
navy  yard. 

Proctor  was  yesterday  at  Sandwich,  with  his  regulars  and 
Indians.  It  is  supposed  he  is  bending  his  course  to  the  river 
French,  there  to  fortify  and  make  a  stand.  I  shall  follow  him 
as  soon  as  I  collect  a  few  horses  to  mount  the  general  oflicers 
and  some  of  the  staff. 

A  miserable  French  poney  upon  which  the  venerable  and 
patriotic  governor  of  Kentucky  was  mounted,  is  the  only  one 
in  the  armj\ 

We  landed  three  miles  below  the  town.  I  wish  your  troops 
to  remain  at  one  of  the  Sandusky's  for  orders. 

Your  friend, 

Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  87) 

Head  Quarters  Amhurstburgh 

27th  Septen\ber  1813. 
Har.  Pa.  151-152 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  I  landed  the  army 
under  my  command  about  3  miles  below  this  place  at  3  o'clock 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        551 

lliis  evening'  Nviihout  opposition  and  took  possession  of  the 
Tov/n  in  an  hour  after.  Genl.  [Heni'y]  Proctor  has  retreated 
to  Sandwich  with  his  regular  troops  and  Indians  having  pre- 
viously burned  the  Fort,  Navy  Yard,  barracks  and  public  store 
houses.  The  two  latter  were  very  extensive  covering  several 
acres  of  ground.  I  will  pursue  the  enemy  tomorrow  altho 
there  is  no  probability  of  overtaking  him  as  he  has  upwards 
of  1000  horses  and  we  have  not  one  in  the  army.  I  shall 
think  myself  fortunate  to  be  able  to  collect  a  sufficiency  to 
mount  the  general  officers.  It  is  supposed  here  that  Genl. 
Procter  intends  to  establish  himself  upon  the  River  French  40 
miles  from  ISIaldcn. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Your  most  obt. 
Humble  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Secretary  of  War 

P.  S.  The  Aggregate  amount  of  the  force  with  me  is  about 
5000  of  which  2000  are  regulars  and  the  rest  Kentucky  mili- 
tia the  Pennsylvania  Regits.  wnth  the  exception  of  about  100 
refused  to  cross  the  line. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Shelby 

War  Office,  September  27,  1813 

Historical  Register,  III,  95 

Sir: 

In  the  absence  of  the  secretary  of  war,  I  have  the  honour 
to  inform  your  excellency,  that  the  president  has  been  pleased 
to  approve  your  ari'angements,  in  substituting  volunteers  for 
the  detached  militia  required  by  general  Harrison. 

The  term  of  service  for  the  detachment  under  your  excel- 
lency, must  depend  on  the  arrangements  of  the  commanding 
general,  to  whom  you  are  referred  for  the  necessary  informa- 
tion relative  to  their  duty  and  the  points  where  your  troops 
will  be  expected  to  operate. 

It  will  be  proper  for  your  excellency  to  keep  up  a  corre- 
spondence with  general  Harrison.  This  is  rendei'cd  the  more 
necessary,  as  the  several  requisitions  which  have  been  made  by 
liim  for  volunteers  and  militia  have  not  been  accurately  re- 
ported to  the  war  office;  and  it  is  possible  he  may  find  it  ad- 
viseable  to  discharge  a  part  of  your  force  before  they  reach 
the  frontier. 


OZ 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


In  the  pi-esent  critical  period  of  the  campaig-n,  it  seems  ad- 
viscal^le  to  submit  all  further  anaug'cments  to  ft-encral  Hai- 
risou,  under  the  insuuctions  he  has  received  from  the  piesi- 
deiit  through  the  secretary  of  wa}-. 

With  pei'fect  lespect,  I  have  the  honour  to  be,  your  excel- 
lency's most  obedient  humble  servant, 

Danl.  PATiKER,  C.  C.  War  Deportment 

Ilis  Excellency  Gov.  Isaac  Shelby.  Gov.  Ky. 

Sparks  to  Harrison 

Lawrenceburgh  27th  Sept.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  4-^4,  4-^5 

Sir: 

Sometime  ago  you  done  me  the  honor  to  put  under  cover  to 
me,  a  commission  from  the  President,  appointing  to  tlie  office 
of  an  attorney  for  the  U.  States,  in  this  Territory  of  Indiana. 
You  and  he  vill  receive  my  ardent  thanks,  unmixed  with  base 
flattery.  I  never  sought  but  one  appointment  (to  the  late 
vacancy  in  our  Judiciary)  from  the  General  Government,  in 
which  I  was  disappointed;  to  the  surprise  and  astonishment 
of  a  large  portion  of  the  citizens  here;  and  wherefore  it  is 
difhcult  to  account,  as  few  applicants  could  expect  a  stronger 
recommendation,  than  was  forwarded  in  my  behalf.  But  as 
I  was  not  influenced  by  motives  neither  popular  nor  lucrative 
(motives  which  never  shall  entirely  regulate  my  conduct,  in 
any  pursuit,  unless  I  degenerate  in  sentiment)  my  mortifica- 
tion under  the  disappointment  was  neither  deep  nor  lasting. 
I  am  bound  to  believe,  that  my  chief  Llagistrate,  acts  for  tlie 
supposed  best.  Under  the  government  I  wish  never  to  be  a 
Senicure  (we  have  too  many  such  in  the  Territory  already) 
tiierefore  it  is  not  my  desire  to  hold  the  present  ofilce,  merely 
for  the  names-sake.  The  duties  thereof  I  must  aim  conscien- 
ciously  to  observe  and  discharge.  This  I  cannot  do  unless 
those  duties  ai'e  accurately  mai'ked,  and  defined  with  pei'spe- 
cuity.  The  Law  of  Congress  whence  the  appointmeiit  eman- 
ates, does  not  contain  any  specification  of  obligation  on  the 
Attorney. 

-Amongst  genuine  Pccpublicans,  1  believe  it  is  not  considered 
a  o'ime,  ntala  1)1  se,  to  confess  ignorance  where  the  means  to 
(^l)tain  information,  have  not  been  i-eceivcd.     Then,  1  ]n-ofess 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        553 

to  you,  Sir,  that  I  am  at  a  loss  to  know,  liow  far  the  functions 
of  an  attorney  for  tlie  U.  States  in  this  Territo}"y  connect  with 
the  Judiciary  establishment  in  the  same,  as  filled  by  the  U.  S. 
judges.  All  crimes,  as  well  as  misdemeanors,  both  in  the  su- 
perior and  inferior  courts,  throughout  the  Territory,  are  pros- 
ecuted in  the  name  of,  and  carried  on  by  and  under  the  au- 
thority of  the  United  States.  Formerly  the  Governor,  in  vi]-- 
tue  of  the  poAver,  as  vested  in  him  by  the  ordinance,  com- 
missioned an  attorney  General  for  the  Territory,  who  ap- 
pointed his  deputies  in  each  county.  At  present,  the  Governor 
by  the  same  power  continues  to  appoint  the  attorney  General 
whose  duty,  infer  alia,  is  to  prosecute  in  the  General  Court  and 
the  Governor  also  by  Statute  law,  commissions  a  prosecutor 
in  each  county.  I  have  entered  upon  the  duties  of  my  ap- 
pointment, so  far  as  they  are  comprehended;  but  I  wish  to 
be  guided  by  a  more  certain  directoi',  than  conjecture.  Does 
the  appointment  conferred  upon  me  take  from  the  Governor, 
the  right  exercised  under  the  ordinance,  to  appoint  an  At- 
torney General  for  the  Territory  Or  does  it  unite  with  the 
General  Court  so  far  only,  as  I  hold  Federal  District  powers? 

I  have  called  on  the  governor  for  information  supposing 
him  to  be  a  proper  person,  as  he  was  in  Congress  at  the  pas- 
sage of  the  law,  but  he  does  not  understand  neither  the  object, 
nor  extent  of  the  appointment !  This  may,  at  least  palliate  my 
ignorance.  I\Iy  dear  Sir,  deem  me  not  troublesome,  as  I  seek 
information,  and  write  with  great  difficulty,  having  been  con- 
fined for  two  weeks,  by  a  pretty  severe  attack  of  the  Fever. 

I  will  submit  to  your  friendly  consideration,  whether  or  not 
I  am  entitled  to  receive  the  laws  of  the  United  States?  If  so, 
vrhere  and  how  I  am  to  obtain  them?  Here  they  can  be  had, 
only  in  detached  Vols.  If  hereafter  on  any  occasion  you  should 
require  my  services,  please  to  command  my  attention.  Doct. 
Edward  Tiffen,  of  your  city,  has  had  with  me  a  long  ac- 
quaintance. 

With  my  fervent  orisons  to  the  throne  of  God,  for  your 
health  and  prosperity,  I  am,  Venerable  sir,  with  sentiments  of 
high  regard,  your  Obt.  Servt. 

Elijah  Sparks 


38— 22G64 


551  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

A  Proclamation 

By  William  Henry  Harrison  Major  General  in  the  army 
of  the  United  States  and  commanding'  in  chief  the  8th  Military 
District 

Detroit,  Sept.  29,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  185,  186 

The  enemy  having  been  driven  from  the  Territory  of  Michi- 
gan and  a  part  of  the  army  under  my  command  having  taken 
possession  of  it,  it  becomes  necessary  that  the  civil  govern- 
ment of  the  Territory  should  be  reestablished  and  the  former 
oflicers  renew  the  exercise  of  their  authority.  I  have  there- 
fore thought  proper  to  proclaim  that  all  appointments  and 
commissions  which  have  been  derived  from  British  officers  are 
at  an  end  and  that  the  citizens  of  the  said  Territory  are  re- 
stored to  all  the  rights  and  privileges  which  they  enjoyed 
previously  to  the  capitulation  made  by  General  Hull  on  the 
16th  of  August  1812.  Under  the  present  circumstances  and 
until  the  will  of  the  government  can  be  made  known  I  have 
thought  proper  to  direct  that  persons  having  civil  offices  in  the 
territory  of  Michigan  at  the  period  of  the  capitulation  of  De- 
troit resume  the  exercise  of  the  powers  appertaining  to  their 
offices  respectively. 

In  the  present  dispersed  state  of  its  population  many  officers 
are  doubtlessly  absent.  In  all  cases  thus  situated  the  last  in- 
cumbent who  resigned  the  offiice  will  resume  the  exercise  of  its 
duties,  the  laws  in  force  at  the  period  above  mentioned  will 
be  reestablished  and  continue  in  force  until  repealed  by  the 
proper  authority.  Given  at  Head  Quarters  Detroit  29th  day 
of  September  1813. 

Signed    William  Henry  Harrison 

By  order  of  the  General 

Signed    John  O'Fallon  Aid  de  camp 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  88) 

Head  Quarters  Sandwitcii   (Upper  Canada) 

30th  Septr.  1813 
Har.  Pa.  1(U; 

Sir: 

The  enemy  having  broken  down  the  bridges  over  several 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        555 

uiifordable  creeks  between  Amhurstburgh  and  this  i^lace  I  was 
unable  to  reach  it  until  yesterday.  Genl.  Procter  had  the  night 
before  left  his  encampment  eight  miles  above  pursuing  the 
road  on  the  margin  of  the  Lake  to  the  Thames.  Having  so 
much  the  start  of  me  and  having  striped  the  country  of 
Horses,  which  prevented  me  from  procuring  a  sufficiency  to 
mount  even  the  general  officers  it  was  impossible  to  pursue 
him  further  with  any  hopes  of  success  until  we  could  be  joined 
by  Col.  [R.  M.]  Johnsons  Regiment  of  mounted  infantry 
which  was  on  its  way  from  Fort  IMeigs  and  which  had  the 
night  before  encamped  at  Brownstown.  The  Col.  Arrived  this 
day  at  Detroit  and  his  Regt.  is  now  crossing  over.  But  as  our 
boats  are  illy  calculated  to  carry  horses  it  is  attended  with 
much  diihculty.  I  hope  however  that  they  will  be  all  over 
early  in  the  morning  when  we  shall  again  take  up  the  line 
of  march.  Genl.  Procter  has  with  him  four  hundred  seventy 
five  regulars  of  the  41  and  Newfoundland  Regiments  sixty  of 
the  10th  Regiment  of  A^etrans  4b  Dragoons  and  from  six  hun- 
dred to  a  thousand  Indians,  some  deserters  that  left  him  the 
night  before  last  give  the  latter  as  the  number,  the  citizens 
of  Detroit  supposed  the  former  to  be  correct.  If  he  makes 
the  contemplated  st^nd  on  the  river  French  he  will  be  able 
to  add  several  hundred  militia  to  his  force.  My  great  appre- 
hension however  arrises  from  a  belief  that  he  will  make  no 
halt.  The  Potawatimies  and  a  Banditti  of  Winebagoes  Fox 
Hurons  and  other  northwestern  Indians  are  at  the  River  Rouge 
they  remained  in  the  vicinity  of  Detroit  until  the  arrival  of 
the  army  at  this  place  and  continued  to  plunder  the  inhabi- 
tants to  the  last  moment  indeed  but  for  our  opportune  arrival, 
it  is  more  than  probable  that  there  would  have  l^een  a  gene)*al 
massacre  of  the  Inhabitants  and  burning  of  their  houses. 

The  Ottawas  and  Chippewas  have  withdrawn  from  the  Brit- 
ish and  have  sent  in  three  of  their  warriors  to  beg  for  peace 
promising  to  agree  to  any  terms  that  I  shall  prescribe.  I  have 
agreed  to  receive  them  upon  condition  of  their  giving  hostages 
for  their  fidelity  and  immediately  joining  us  with  all  their  war- 
riors. The  Wyandots,  ]\Iiamis  and  the  band  of  Delawarcs 
which  had  joined  the  enemy  are  also  desirous  to  be  received 
upon  the  same  terms.  I  shall  enter  into  no  engagement  with 
them  upon  the  subject  of  their  lands  but  refer  the  whole  to 
[he  decision  of  the  president,  the  projn-ioty  of  recei\'ing  the 


556  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Indians  in  the  manner  hero  p)'oposcd  appears  to  me  to  be  £0 
obvious  as  to  require  no  illustration.  It  was  recommended 
to  me  by  all  the  unanimous  voice  of  all  the  General  officers 
and  by  the  urgent  entreaties  of  the  citizens  of  Detroit,  whose 
safety  cannot  be  ascertained  without  it.  Tv/o  thousand  men 
placed  at  Detroit  could  not  protect  the  scattered  settlements 
from  the  depredations  of  the  hostile  Indians.  The  gleanings 
of  the  farms  and  of  the  corn  fields  would  afford  them  support 
for  months.  I  think  it  necessary  however  that  some  severe 
example  should  be  made  and  every  motive  of  justice  and  policy 
points  at  the  Potawatimies  as  the  Tribe  which  ought  to  be 
selected  for  the  purpose.  They  are  the  most  guilty  and  the 
most  able  on  any  further  occasion  to  give  trouble  to  the  U. 
States.  The  celebrated  Chief  Main  Pock  is  at  the  head  of 
the  hostile  band  on  the  Detroit  side  of  the  Streight.  Tecumseh 
leads  that  which  remains  with  the  British.  The  inhabitants 
of  Detroit  who  v/ere  in  daily  communication  with  them,  make 
the  former  from  one  thousand  to  twelve  hundred  their  object 
in  dividing  their  force  was  to  make  a  night  attack  upon  the 
part  of  the  army  which  crossed  over  to  Detroit  or  that  Vvdiich 
remained  on  this  side  by  a  junction  of  their  force  some  miles 
above. 

A  detachment  of  the  army  and  soine  of  the  vessels  of  War 
will  set  out  for  the  reduction  of  Macinac  and  St.  Josephs  in  a 
few  days.  The  occupancy  of  Chicago  must  be  left  for  another 
season,  the  I\Iilitia  have  already  become  restless  and  desirous 
of  returning  home.  They  will  go  however  v/ith  cheerfulness 
as  long  as  there  is  a  prospect  of  overtaking  the  enemy  but  no 
human  influence  will  keep  them  any  longer.  I  shall  have, 
after  their  departure  and  that  of  the  12  months  volunteers, 
about  twenty-five  hundred  regulars;  these  will  be  sufiicient  for 
the  reduction  of  Maccinac  and  for  the  safety  of  the  country. 
But  until  the  Indians  are  more  completely  under  our  control 
I  do  not  think  it  would  be  proper  to  make  any  Detachment  to 
reinforce  the  army  belov/. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect  Sir  your  IluJiibl, 
Svt 

.  ■.    ,  WiLLiM.  Henry  Hakrison 

Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esqr.  Seciy  of  War 


HARRISON:     IMESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        557 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
No.  89 

Head  Quarters  Near  I\T0RAVIAN  Town  on  the  River 
French  [Thames]  80  miles  from  DETROIT  5th  Oct.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  161-105 

Ott.  . 
>3;iv  . 

I  have  the  honour  to  inform  you  that  by  the  blessing  of 
providence  tln^  army  under  my  command  has  this  evening  ob- 
tained a  complete  victory  over  the  combined  Indian  and  Brit- 
ish forces  under  the  command  of  Genl.  [Henry]  Proctor. 

I  believe  that  nearly  the  whole  of  the  enemies  Regulars 
are  taken  or  killed  amongst  the  former  are  all  the  superior 
officers  excepting  Genl.  Procter.  My  mounted  men  are  now 
in  pursuit  of  him. 

Our  loss  is  very  trifling.  The  brave  Col.  R.  M.  Johnson 
is  the  only  ofiicer  whom  I  have  heard  of  that  is  wounded. 
He  badly  but  I  hope  not  dangerously.  []\Iortality  in  the  dupli- 
cate] 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  your  obt.  svt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
The  Honble.  JOHN  Armstrong,  SecreUiry  at  War 

(This  was  sent  in  duplicate,  both  copies  arriving) 

Proctor  to  Harrison 

October  8th,  1813 

Niks'  Register  V,  312 

Sir: 

The  Fortune  of  War  having  ])]aced  the  private  property  of 
the  officei's  and  several  Families  of  the  Right  Division  of  the 
British  Army  in  Upper  Cariada  in  youi'  povrer,  as  also  letters, 
Papers,  and  Vouchers  of  the  greatest  consequence  to  indi- 
viduals without  being  of  any  to  the  cau.se  of  the  captors,  I  do 
myself  the  honor  of  applying  to  you  in  tneir  behalf,  hoping 
that  agreably  to  custoin  of  War  you  will  avail  yourself  of  this 
favorable  opi)ortu.nity  to  alleviate  private  Feelings  by  causing 
the  said  property  and  Documents  to  be  restored.  I  must  also 
intreat  that  every  consideration  in  your  power  be  shown  for 
private  families  not  of  the  ai-my.  1  trust  that  with  the  same 
view,  you  will  i)enriit  tlie  Bearei'  hereof  to  ascertain  the  fate 
of  Individuals  and  lliat  you  you  will  facilitate  the  reii'eat  of 


558  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

any  Families  tliai  may  have  im fortunately  been  i]iten-uptod 
ii\  the  attempt. 

1  have  the  honor  to  be,  Sir,  Your  obedieiit  and  humble  serv- 
ant. 

(signed)  Henry  Proctor 
Maj.  General  in  his  Brittanic  Majesty's  Service 
Major  Gen.  Harrison 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 


(No.  90) 


Head  Quarters  Detroit  9th  October  1813 

Har.  Pa.  168-1  SO 

Sir: 

In  my  letter  from  Sandwich  of  the  30th  ultimo  [see  above] 
I  did  myself  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  I  was  preparing  to 
pursue  the  enemy  the  following  day.  From  various  causes 
liowever  I  was  unable  to  put  the  troops  in  motion  until  the 
morning  of  the  2nd  Instant  and  then  to  take  with  me  only 
about  one  hundred  and  forty  of  the  Regular  Troops.  [R.  M.] 
Johnson's  mounted  Regiment  and  such  of  Gov.  Shelby  volun- 
teers as  were  fit  for  a  rapid  march  the  whole  amounting  to 
about  three  thousand  five  hundred  men.  To  Genl.  [Duncan] 
]\IcArthur  (with  aout  seven  hundred  effectives)  the  protecting 
of  this  place  and  the  sick  was  committed.  Genl.  [Lewis] 
Cass's  Brigade  and  the  Corps  of  Lt.  Col.  [James  V.]  Ball  were 
left  at  Sandwich  with  orders  to  follow  me  as  soon  as  the  men 
received  their  knapsacks  and  blankets,  v/hich  had  been  left 
on  an  Island  in  Lake  Erie. 

The  unavoidable  delay  at  Sandv/ich  was  attended  v/ith  n.o 
disadvantage  to  us.  Genl.  Proctor  had  posted  himself  at  Dal- 
Kon's  on  the  right  bank  of  the  Thames  (or  French)  fifty  six 
miles  from  this  place  where  I  was  informed  he  intended  to 
fortify  and  wait  to  receive  me.  He  must  have  believed  how- 
ever that  I  had  no  disposition  to  follow  him  or  that  he  had 
secured  my  continuance  here  by  the  reports  that  were  circu- 
lated that  the  Indians  would  attack  and  destroy  the  place  upon 
the  advance  of  tlie  army.  As  he  neglected  to  conmience  the 
breaking  up  the  bridges  until  the  night  of  the  second  instant. 
On  that  night  our  army  reached  the  river  v/hich  is  twenty 
five  miles  from  Sandwich  and  is  one  of  four  streams  crossing 
our  route,  over  all  of  which  are  bridges,  and  being  deep  and 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        559 

muddy  ai'c  unfordable  for  a  considerable  distance  into  the 
country,  the  bridge  here  was  found  entii'e  and  in  the  morn- 
ing I  proceeded  with  Johnson's  Ifegiment  to  save  if  possible 
the  othei-s.  At  the  second  bridge  over  a  branch  of  the  River 
Thames  we  were  fortunate  enough  to  capture  a  Lieut,  of  Dra- 
goons and  eleven  privates  who  had  been  sent  by  Genl.  Proctor 
to  destroy  them.  From  the  prisoners  I  learned  that  the  third 
bridge  was  broken  up  and  that  the  enemy  has  no  certain  in- 
formation of  our  advance.  The  bridge  having  been  imper- 
fectly destroyed,  was  soon  repaired  and  the  army  encamped  at 
Drake's  farm  four  miles  below  Dalson's. 

The  river  Thames  along  the  banks  of  which  our  route  lay  is 
a  fine  deep  stream,  navigable  for  vessels  of  considerable  bur- 
then, after  the  passage  of  the  bar  at  its  mouth,  over  which 
there  is  six  and  a  half  feet  water. 

The  baggage  of  the  army  was  brought  from  Detroit  in  boats 
protected  by  three  gun  boats,  which  Commodore  Perry  had 
furnished  for  the  purpose  as  well  as  to  cover  the  passage  of 
the  army  over  the  Thames  itself,  or  the  mouths  of  its  tributary 
streams ;  the  banks  being  low  and  the  country  generally  open 
(Prairies)  as  high  as  Dalson's  these  vessels  were  well  calcu- 
lated for  that  purpose.  Above  Dalson's  however,  the  charac- 
ter of  the  river  and  adjacent  country  is  considerably  changed. 
The  former,  though  still  deep  is  very  narrow  and  its  banks 
high  and  woody.  The  Commodore  [Perry]  and  myself  there- 
fore agreed  upon  the  propriety  of  leaving  the  boats  under  a 
guard  of  one  hundred  and  fifty  infantry  and  I  determined  to 
trust  to  fortune  and  the  bravery  of  my  troops  to  effect  the 
passage  of  the  river.  Below  a  place  called  Chatham  and  four 
miles  above  Dalson's  is  the  third  unfordable  branch  of  the 
Thames,  the  bridge  over  its  mouth  had  been  taken  up  by 
the  Indians  as  well  as  that  at  McGregor's  Mills  one  mile  above. 
Several  hundred  of  the  Indians  I'emained  to  dispute  our  pas- 
sage and  upon  the  arrival  of  the  advanced  guard,  commenced 
a  heavy  fire  fi'om  the  opposite  bank  of  the  ci'eek  as  Vv-ell  as 
that  of  the  river.  Believing  that  the  whole  force  of  the  enemy 
was  there  I  halted  the  army  formed  in  order  of  battle  and 
brought  up  our  two  six  pounders  to  cover  the  party  that  were 
ordered  to  rc^pair  the  bridge.  A  few  shot  from  those  pieces 
soon  drove  off  the  Indians  and  enabled  us  in  two  hours  to 
repair    the    bridge    and    cross    the    troops.     Col.    Johnson's 


.5fi(l  INDIANA  fllSTORlCAl,  COLLECTIONS 

mo,n,t«l  .TS-i.nent  being  u„o„  tl,c  right  of  tl,e  armv  luul  .oized 

I  K  IiulL.  ,.     Oiii-  loss  „iK,„  tl,is  occasion  was  two  killed  aiui 
U.  -ee  0,-  fcmr  wounded.     That  of  ll,e  enenn-  was  a    e rtai  "' 
to  be  considerably  greater.     A  l,ouse  near  tl  e  brid ';  "   onta in 
...8-  a  ver..  considerable  nuniber  of  nn.skets  bad  b  ;„      f  on" 
At  tl  e  fi'.  st'T  '""^■"'■■*"<'  "■^'  -"•  I'-l-  and  (he  arn         vc" 

e..sels  01  fiie,  loaded  w.th  arms  and  ordnance  .^t^res  and 
learned  that  they  were  a  few  miles  ahead  of  us  s.  |    on    hp 
nght  bank  of  the  river  with  the  great  bo  ,0    In      „  "  '' 
Bowles's  farm,  four  miles  from  tlie  bridge  we  h-lto   for  ft 
...gW  found  two  other  vessels  and  a  largc^di  i  He;!  fi  ,ed  V 

names.     It  was  impossible  to  put  out  the  firc-lvo  t--er.t^• 
four  pounders  with  their  carriages  were  taken  a n d  a  1     ! 
quantity  of  ball  and  .shells  of  va,4s  sizes.  Th    ni™    wa    ,  ul 
m  motion  early  on  the  morning  of  the  5th      I  n     h  ,^      ' 

advancew,ththemountedregi„rentaiK;ie  uest^ictL    ,bv 
to  follow  as  expeditiously  as  pcss.:ble  with  the  Inf  n'tr        e 

uon,  11  was  found  too  deep  ior  the  Infantry.     Haxino-  hov 
ever   fortimately   taken   t^■.•o   other   boats   and   som     I,  H  „' 
fanoes  on  the  spot  and  obliging  tlie  hor-emen  (o      it      r 

rmiiL'tmihc' ''' "'""'°  "■■^'°^'  '^'''^'  -o-d'VioV:.,o  ;;; 

uTvXT  ",'"'""S'  "'"  '"'"■''"'  "  I'ai'm  "here  a  part  of 

lie  Lnl.sl,    ,.oops  had  encamped  (he  i,ie;l,t  before  u„     r  the 

Proctor"h   °/  ^°'-  ,^:-*--'«"-     ^'l-  detachmeii     „        Ge 
mil^s  higher^r  '''' '"'"" ''" '"  ''"'"^"^"^  T'"™  ^-"■ 

Being  now  certainly  near  the  enemv  I  directed  the  ■idv,,,-. 
0    Joliiisoii's  Regiment  to  accellerate  their  marcl  ,'  "    ,;. 

n  a  si  oTT-"''"-''  '"^"''=™'«'-     'J'h>.'  oliicer  commanding 
lone  ''  '"'^  '"  '"'■"'■'"   '""  l''^>t  li-  i"-n.,-e,^s  wa 

,l?r     ''-^  '!«/■""">■  "-I"-  «-e  formed  acro.s     c^ur  line 
mnuh.  One  0/  (he  enemy's  waggoners  beingahso  taken  pri    n 


IIARrJSOX:     :\IESSACES  AND  LETTERS        oGl 

from  the  information  received  from  him,  and  my  own  obser- 
vation, assisted  by  some  of  my  ofliccrs  I  soon  ascertained 
enoug^h  of  their  position  and  order  of  battle  to  determine  that 
which  it  was  proper  for  me  to  adopt. 

I  have  the  honour  herewith  to  enclose  you  my  general  order 
of  the  27  ultimo  [not  found]  prescribing  tlie  order  of  March 
and  of  battle  when  the  whole  army  sliould  act  together.  But 
as  the  number  and  description  of  the  troops  had  been  essen- 
tially changed  since  the  issuing  of  the  order,  it  became  nec- 
essary to  make  a  corresponding  alteration  in  their  disposition. 
Erom  the  place  VN-here  our  arniy  was  last  halted,  to  the  ]!\Iora- 
vian  Towns,  a  distance  of  about  three  and  a  half  miles,  the 
road  passes  through  a  beech  forest  without  any  cleariiig  and 
for  the  first  two  miles  near  to  the  bank  of  the  River.  At  from 
two  to  three  hundred  yards  from  the  river  a  swamp  extends 
parallel  to  it,  throughout  the  v/hole  distance.  The  intermedi- 
ate ground  is  dry  and  although  the  trees  are  tolei'ably  thick, 
it  is  in  many  places  clear  of  underbrush.  Across  this  strip 
of  land  its  left  appayed  upon  the  river  supported  by  artillery 
placed  in  tiie  v.cod,  their  right  in  the  sv.-anip  covered  by  th.e 
whole  of  their  Lidian  force,  the  British  Troops  were  drawn 
up.  The  troops  at  my  disposal  consisted  of  about  one  hun- 
dred and  tv\-enty  regulars  of  the  27th  regiment,  five  brigades 
of  Kentucky  Volunteer  ^Militia  Infanti-y  under  his  Excellency 
Gov.  Shelby,  averaging  less  than  five  hundred  men  and  Col. 
Johnson's  Regiment  of  ^Mounted  Infantry  making  in  the  whole 
an  aggregate  something  above  three  thousand.  No  disposi- 
tion of  an  army  opposed  to  an  Indian  foj-ce  can  be  safe  unless 
it  is  secured  on  the  flanks  and  in  the  rear.  I  had  therefore 
no  dilTiculty  in  arranging  the  Infantry  conformably  to  my 
general  order  of  battle.  GerJ.  [George]  Trotter's  brigade  of 
five  hundred  men  formed  the  front  line,  his  right  upon  the 
road  and  his  left  upon  the  swamp  Genl.  [John  Edward]  King's 
brigade  as  a  second  line  one  hundred  and  fifty  yards  in  the 
rear  of  Trotter's  and  [David]  Chiles'  brigade  as  a  corps  dc 
reserve  in  the  rear  of  it  these  thi'ee  brigades  formed  the  coua- 
mand  of  r^Iajor  Genl.  [William]  Henry,  the  whole  of  Genl. 
[Josei)h]  Deshai's  Division  consisting  of  two  brigades  v^•ere 
formed  oi  potencc  upon  tlie  left  of  Trotter. 

Whilst  I  was  engaged  in  forming  the  Infantry  I  had  directed 
Col.  Johnson's  Regiment  which  was  still  in  front,  to  be  formed 


562  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

in  two  lines  opposite  to  the  enemy  and  upon  the  advance  of  the 
Infantry  to  take  ground  to  the  left  and  forming  upon  that 
flank  to  endeavour  to  turn  the  right  of  the  Indians.  A  mo- 
ments reflection  however  convinced  me  that  from  the  thick- 
ness of  the  woods  and  swampiness  of  the  ground,  they  would 
be  unable  to  do  anything  on  horseback  and  there  was  no  time 
to  dismount  them  and  place  their  horses  in  security.  I  there- 
fore determined  to  I'efuse  my  left  to  the  Indians  and  to  break 
the  British  lines  at  once  by  a  charge  of  the  Mounted  Infantry, 
the  measure  was  not  sanctioned  by  anything  that  I  had  seen  or 
heard  of  but  I  was  fully  convinced  that  it  would  succeed.  The 
American  backwoodsmen  ride  better  in  the  woods  than  any 
other  people.  A  musket  or  rifle  is  no  impediment  to  them 
being  accustomed  to  carry  them  on  horseback  from  their 
earliest  youth.  I  was  persuaded  too  that  the  enemy  would  be 
quite  unprepared  for  the  shock  and  that  they  could  not  resist 
it.  Conformably  to  this  idea  I  directed  the  regiment  to  be 
drawn  up  in  close  column  with  its  right  at  the  distance  of 
fifty  yards  from  the  road,  (that  it  might  be  in  some  measure 
protected  by  the  trees  from  the  artillery)  its  left  upon  the 
sv/amp  and  to  charge  at  full  speed  as  soon  as  the  enemy  de- 
livered their  fire.  The  few  regular  troops  of  the  271h  Regi- 
ment under  their  Col.  [George]  (Paul)  occupied  in  column 
of  sections  of  four,  the  small  space  betv/een  the  road  and  the 
river  for  the  purpose  of  seizing  the  enemy's  artilleiy  and  some 
ten  or  twelve  fi'iendly  Indians  were  directed  to  move  undcr 
the  bank.  The  Crotchet  formed  by  the  front  line  and  (lenl. 
Desha's  division  was  an  important  point.  At  that  place,  the 
venerable  (lovernor  of  Kentucky  was  posted,  who  at  Iho  age 
of  sixty-six  preserves  all  the  vigor  of  youth,  the  ai'dent  /cal 
which  distinguished  him  in  the  Revolutionary  War  and  the 
undauiitcfi  bravery  which  he  manifested  at  King's  I\Tountnin, 
with  my  aids  de  camj)  the  acting  assistant  adjutant  General 
Cai)t.  fRobeiil  Rutlei'  my  gallant  friend  Commodoi-o  Perry 
who  (lid  ]ne  the  honour  to  serve  as  my  volunteer  aid  de  camji 
ajid  ilrigadier  General  Cass  who  having  no  command  tendo'ed 
nio  his  assistance.  I  i)laced  myself  at  the  head  of  the  front 
liiu'  of  lnfantr\-,  to  direct  the  movements  of  the  Cavalry  and 
gi\-('  them  the  necessary  suppo)'t.  The  army  had  moved  on  in 
this  oi'der  Init  a  shoi-t  distance,  wh(^n  the  mounted  men  re- 
ceived th(,^  fii'c  of  the  r.ritish  line  and  were  ordered  to  charge, 


HARRISON:     I\IRSSAGES  AND  LETTERS        5G3 

the  horses  in  the  front  of  the  cohnnn  recoiled  from  the  fire, 
another  was  given  by  the  enemy  and  our  cohimn  at  length 
getting  in  motion  broke  throug'h  the  enemy  with  irresistible 
force,  in  one  minute  the  contest  in  front  was  over,  the  Brit- 
ish officers  seeing  no  hopes  of  reducing  their  disordered  ranks 
to  order,  and  our  mounted  men  v.'hceling  upon  them  and  poui"- 
ing  in  a  destructive  fire  immediately  surrendered,  it  is  cer- 
tain that  three  oidy  of  our  troops  were  wounded  in  this  charge 
(upon  the  left  however  the  contest  was  more  severe  with  the 
Indians.  Col,  Johnson,  who  commanded  on  that  flank  of  his 
regiment  recei\'ed  a  most  galling  fire  from  them,  which  vras 
returned  with  great  effect).  The  Indians  still  further  to  the 
right  advanced  and  fell  in  with  our  front  line  of  Infantry  near 
its  junction  with  Desha's  division  and  for  a  moment  made  an 
impression  upon  it.  His  Excellency  Gov.  Shelby  however 
brought  up  a  regiment  to  its  support  and  the  enemy  receiving 
a  severe  fire  in  front,  and  a  part  of  Johnson's  Regiment  hav- 
ing gained  their  rear,  retreated  with  precipitation  their  loss 
was  very  considerable  in  the  action  and  many  were  killed  in 
their  retreat. 

I  can  give  no  satisfactory  information  of  the  number  of 
Indians  that  vv'ere  in  the  action  but  they  must  have  Ijeen  con- 
siderabl}^  upwards  of  one  thousand.  From  the  documents  in 
my  possession  (Genl.  Proctor's  oflicial  letters  all  of  which  were 
taken)  and  from  the  information  of  respectable  inhabitants 
of  this  Territory  the  Indians  kept  in  pay  by  the  Britisli  were 
much  more  numerous  than  has  been  generally  supposed.  In 
a  letter  to  Genl.  De.  Rottenburg  of  the  27th  Inst.  Genl.  Proctor 
speaks  of  ha^■ing  prevailed  upon  most  of  the  Indians  to  accom- 
pany him.  Of  these  it  is  certain  that  fifty  or  sixty  Wyandot 
Warriors  abandoned  him. 

A  British  officer  of  high  rank,  assured  one  of  my  Aids  de 
Camp  that  on  the  day  of  our  landing  Gen.  Proctor  had  at  his 
disposal  upwards  of  three  thousand  Indian  \Varriors  but  as- 
serted that  the  greatest  part  had  left  him  previous  to  the 
action. 

The  number  of  our  troops  was  certainly  greater  than  that 
of  the  enemy  but  when  it  is  recollected  that  they  had  chosen 
a  position  that  effectually  secured  their  flank  which  it  was  im- 
possible for  us  to  turn  and  that  we  could  not  present  to  them 


5()4  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

a  line  more  extended  than  their  own  it  v/ill  not  be  considered 
arrogant  to  claim  for  my  troops  the  pahn  of  superior  bravery. 

In  communicating  to  the  President  through  you  Sir  my 
opinion  of  the  conduct  of  the  officers  who  served  under  my 
command  I  am  at  a  loss  how  to  mention  that  of  Gov.  Shelby 
being  convinced  that  no  eulogium  of  mine  can  reach  his  merits. 
The  Governor  of  an  independent  State  greatly  my  superior  in 
years,  in  experience  and  in  military  character  he  placed  him- 
self under  my  command  and  is  not  more  remarkable  for  his 
zeal  and  activity  than  for  the  promptitude  and  cheerfulness 
with  which  he  obeyed  my  orders.  The  Major  Generals  Henry 
and  Desha  and  the  brigadiers  [James]  Allen,  [Samuel]  Cald- 
vrell.  King,  Chiles,  and  Trotter  all  of  the  Kentucky  volunteers 
manifested  great  zeal  and  activity.  Of.  Gov.  Shelby's  staff  his 
adjutant  General  Col.  [Joseph]  McDowell  and  his  Quarter 
I\Iaster  Genl.  Col.  [George]  Walker  rendered  great  service, 
as  did  his  aids  de  camp  Genl.  [John]  Adair  and  Majors  [Wil- 
liam T.]  Barry  and  [J,  F.]  Crittenden  the  military  skill  of  the 
former  was  of  great  service  to  us  and  the  activity  of  the  two 
latter  Gentlemen  could  not  be  surpassed.  Illness  deprived  me 
of  the  talents  of  my  adjutant  General  Col.  [Edmund  P.] 
Gaines  who  was  left  at  Sandwich.  His  duties  were  however 
ably  performed  by  the  acting  assistant  adjutant  general  Capt. 
Butler.  My  aids  de  camp  Lt.  [John]  0' Fallon  and  Capt. 
[Charles  Scott]  Todd  of  the  Line  and  my  volunteer  aids  John 
Speed  Smith  and  John  Chambers  Esq.  have  rendered  me  the 
most  important  services  from  the  opening  of  the  Campaign. 
I  have  already  stated  that  Genl.  Cass  and  Commodore  Perry 
assisted  me  in  forming  the  troops  for  action  the  former  is  an 
officer  of  the  highest  merit  and  the  appearance  of  the  bravo 
Commodore  cheered  and  animated  every  breast. 

It  would  be  useless  Sir  after  stating  the  circumstances  of 
the  action  to  pass  encommium  upon  Col.  Johnson  and  his  regi- 
ment. Veterans  could  not  have  manifested  more  firmness. 
The  Colonel's  numerous  wounds  prove  that  he  was  in  the  post 
of  danger.  Lt.  Col.  James  Johnson  and  the  i\Iajors  [De  Vail] 
Payne  and  [David]  Thompson  were  equally  active  though 
more  fortunate.  ]\Iajor  [E.  D.]  Wood  of  the  Engineers  al- 
ready distinguished  by  his  conduct  at  Fort  IMeigs  attended 
the  army  with  two  six  pounders.  Having  no  use  for  them  in 
the  action,  he  joined  in  the  pursuit  of  the  enemy  and. with 


■  \      HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        565 

Major  Payne  of  the  Mounted  Regiment  two  of  my  aids  do 
ramp  Todd  and  Chambers  and  three  privates  continued  it  for 
r.evcral  miles  after  the  rest  of  the  troops  liad  halted  and  made 
many  prisoners. 

1  left  the  army  before  an  official  return  of  the  prisoners 
or  that  of  the  killed  and  wounded  was  made  out.  It  was  how- 
ever ascertained  that  the  former  amounts  to  six  hundred  and 
one  regulars  including  twenty-five  officers.  Our  loss  is  seven 
killed  and  twenty  two  wounded  five  of  wiiich  have  since  died, 
of  the  British  Troops  twelve  wore  killed  and  twenty  two 
wounded  the  Indians  suffered  most,'  thirty  three  of  them  hav- 
ing been  found  upon  the  ground  besides  those  killed  in  the 
retreat. 

On  the  day  of  the  action,  six  pieces  of  brass  artillery  were 
taken,  and  two  iron  twenty  four  pounders  the  day  before. 
Several  others  were  discovered  in  the  River  and  can  be  easily 
procured,  of  the  Brass  Pieces  three  are  the  trophies  of  our 
Revolutionary  War,  that  were  taken  at  Saratoga  and  York 
and  surrendered  by  General  Hull.  The  number  of  small  arms 
taken  by  us  and  destroyed  by  the  enemy  must  amount  to  up- 
wards of  five  thousands  most  of  them  had  been  ours  and  taken 
by  the  enemy  at  the  surrender  of  Detroit,  at  the  river  Raisin 
and  Colo.  [William]  Dudley's  defeat.  I  believe  that  the  enemy 
retain  no  other  military  trophy  of  their  victories  than  the 
standard  of  the  4th  Regiment.  They  were  not  magnanimous 
enough  to  bring  that  of  the  41st  Regiment  into  the  field  or  it 
would  have  been  taken. 

You  have  been  informed  Sir  of  the  conduct  of  the  Troops 
under  my  command  in  action  it  gives  me  great  pleasure  to  in- 
form you  that  they  merit  also  the  approbation  of  their  country 
for  their  conduct  in  submitting  to  the  greatest  privations  with 
the  utmost  cheerfulness.  The  Infantry  were  entirely  without 
tents  and  for  several  days  the  whole  army  subsisted  upon 
fresh  beef  without  bread  or  salt. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  your  Humb. 
Servt 

:;      :a  s:>Hv         .  i  WiLLM.  HENRY  HARRISON 

Gen  John  Armstrong  Sec.  of  War 

P.  S.  Genl.  Proctor  escaped  by  the  fleetness  of  his  horse  es- 
corted by  forty  dragoons  and  a  number  of  mounted  Indians. 


566  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Extract  from  the  Deposition  of  Major  Chambers 

Dawson,  HarrisoTt,  4- -J 

During  the  whole  pursuit,  and  indeed  from  the  time  I  first 
joined  General  Harrison,  he  evinced  in  his  whole  conversation 
and  conduct  the  most  ardent  disposition  to  push  the  campaign 
into  the  enemy's  country,  and  to  meet  general  Proctor  in  the 
field,  at  the  same  time  that  he  evinced  a  devotion  to  his  duties 
which  I  have  never  seen  equalled  in  any  station. 

John  Chambers^ 
Extract  from  the  Deposition  of  Colonel  Todd 

■  ..li'-v  ^ ;-.;."  -.; . .  ■■  ■^..  ,'^  ■■'■■, '~  ':Kv..:  iS; *-:  Dawson,  Harriscni,  i2i 

During  the  whole  period  that  I  had  the  pleasure  to  be  asso- 
ciated with  General  Harrison,  with  various  opportunities  of 
observing  his  conduct  and  appreciating  his  motives,  I  do  most 
unequivocally  declare  my  conviction,  that  the  unremitted  zeal, 
the  unshaken  firmness,  the  spotless  integi'ity,  and  the  con- 
summate ability  with  which  he  conducted  the  north-western 
army  to  complete  victory  amidst  innumerable  difficulties,  (cor- 
rectly estimated  by  those  only  who  participated  in  them)  se- 
cured my  entire  approbation,  and  give  him  just  claims  to  the 
eternal  gratitude  of  his  country. 

:,.■..  .    ..  ;    ;cv    ''    ^    .:    ■;   C.  S.  ToDD^ 

:    ^  ~^:    ■  •;    Cass  to  Harrison 

Aug.  31,  1817 
Dawson,  Harrison,  ^23 

Upon  the  subject  of  the  council  which  was  held  at  Sand^v^ch 
I  cannot  speak  with  precision ;  I  think  that  for  some  cause  I 
do  not  now  recollect,  I  was  not  present  at  its  deliberations. 
But  I  do  recollect  that  at  all  the  inten'iews  I  had  with  you, 
you  were  ardent  and  zealous  for  the  pursuit  of  Proctor,  nor 
did  I  ever  hear  that  a  doubt  had  been  expressed  by  you  upon 
that  subject  till  long  after  the  events  themselves  had  passed 
av/ay.  In  the  letter  from  govcmor  Shelby  to  you  which  has 
been  published,  the  governor  has  stated  so  correctly  and  dis- 

1.  Aid  de  Camp  of  }Iarr!son  at  the  battle. 

2.  Colonel  of  the  nth  regrinient.  These  extracts  arc  printed  here  merely  to  indi- 
cate that  these  campaigns  were  all  foupht  over  again  and  apain  in  ConKress.-[n  the 
pres*  and  on  the  stump. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        567 

tiiictly  the  propositions  which  were  made  for  the  pursuit  of 
Proctor,  that  there  is  the  less  necessity  for  me  to  enter  into 
a  detail  of  them.  The  main  body  of  the  enemy's  army  had  left 
Amhcrstburg:  some  days  before  we  landed,  and  were  under- 
stood to  be  upon  the  river  French,  If  conducted  with  common 
prudence,  it  was  my  opinion  then  and  it  is  my  opinion  yet 
that  they  might  have  moved  with  such  celerity  as  to  have  ren- 
dered it  impracticable  for  us  to  have  overtaken  them,  A  deep 
indentation  of  the  lake  some  distance  below  Maiden  would 
have  brought  us  within  a  few  miles  of  the  road  upon  which 
Proctor  retreated,  and  considerably  advanced  of  the  position 
where  we  overtook  him.  The  propriety  of  pursuing  him 
along  the  road  he  had  taken,  or  of  endeavouring  to  inter- 
cept him  by  the  other  route  was  the  subject  of  conversation 
on  our  first  arrival  at  Sandwich,  But  whenever  I  conversed 
with  you,  the  latter  route  was  mentioned  as  one  which  de- 
served examination  rather  than  one  upon  v/hich  any  decided 
opinion  had  been  formed.  Upon  a  consideration  of  its  un- 
certainty at  that  season  of  the  year,  it  was  soon  abandoned. 
I  was  with  you  frequently,  and  conversed  with  you  freely 
during  our  continuance  at  Sandwich,  and  am  confident  you 
never  hesitated  in  your  determination  to  pursue  Proctor.  So 
far  as  my  feeble  testimony  can  aid  in  removing  erroneous  im- 
pressions, which  have  injured  you,  it  is  given  with  pleasure. 
From  the  time  I  joined  the  army  under  your  command  its 
operations  were  conducted  with  as  much  celerity  as  possible, 
and  so  far  as  respects  yourself,  its  fiscal  concerns,  I  am  con- 
fident,  were  managed   with   the   most  scrupulous   integrity. 

[Lewis  Cass] 
[Extract] 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort,  April  21,  1816 

Dawson,  Harrison,  422 

Dear  General,  your  letter  of  the  15th  instant  has  been  duly 
received  in  which  you  stated  that  a  charge  has  been  made 
against  you,  "that  you  were  forced  to  pursue  Proctor  from  my 
remonstrances,"  and  that  I  had  said  to  you,  upon  that  occasion 
"that  it  was  immaterial  what  direction  you  took,  that  I  was 
resolved  to  pursue  the  enemy  up  the  Thames":  and  you  re- 


568  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

quest  me  to  give  you  a  statement  of  facts  in  relation  to  the 
council  of  war  held  at  Sandwich. 

I  will  in  the  first  place  freely  declare  that  no  such  language 
ever  passed  from  me  to  you,  and  that  I  entertained  throughout 
the  campaign  too  high  an  opinion  of  your  military  talents  to 
doubt  for  a  moment  your  capacity  to  conduct  the  army  to  the 
best  advantage.  It  is  well  recollected  that  the  army  arrived 
at  Sandwich  in  the  afternoon  of  the  29th  of  September,  and 
that  the  next  day  was  extremely  wet.  I  was  at  your  quarters 
in  the  evening  of  that  day;  we  had  a  conversation  relative  to 
the  pursuit  of  the  enemy,  and  you  requested  me  to  see  you 
early  the  next  morning.  I  waited  on  you  just  after  day  break, 
found  you  up,  apparently  waiting  for  me;  you  led  me  into 
a  small  private  room  and  on  the  way  observed,  'We  must  not 
be  heard.'  You  were  as  anxious  to  pursue  Proctor  as  I  was, 
but  might  not  have  been  entirely  satisfied  as  to  the  route.  You 
observed  that  there  were  two  ways  by  which  he  might  be  over- 
taken ;  one  was  down  the  lake  by  water,  to  some  post  or  point, 
of  the  name  of  which  I  am  now  not  positive,  thence  to  march 
across  by  land  twelve  miles  to  the  road  leading  up  the  Thames, 
and  intercept  him.  The  other  way,  by  land,  up  the  strait,  and 
up  the  Thames.  I  felt  satisfied  by  a  pursuit  on  land  that  he 
could  be  overhauled,  and  expressed  that  opinion  with  the  rea- 
sons on  which  it  was  founded,  and  we  readily  agreed  in  senti- 
ment ;  but  you  observed  as  there  were  tv/o  routes  by  which  he 
might  be  overtaken,  to  determine  the  one  most  proper  was 
a  measure  of  great  responsibility,  that  you  would  take  the 
opinion  of  the  general  officers  as  to  the  most  practicable  one, 
and  you  requested  me  to  collect  them  in  one  hour  at  your  quar- 
ters. I  assembled  them  accordingly,  to  whom  you  stated  your 
determination  to  pursue  Proctor,  and  your  object  in  calling 
them  together;  and  after  explaining  the  two  routes  by  which 
he  might  be  overtaken,  you  observed,  'that  the  governor 
thinks,  and  so  do  I,  that  the  pursuit  by  land  up  the  Thames 
will  be  most  effectual.'  The  general  officers  were  in  favour 
of  a  pursuit  by  land;  and  in  the  course  of  that  day  colonel 
Johnson  with  his  mounted  regiment  was  able  to  cross  over 
from  the  Detroit  side  to  join  in  the  chase.  He  might,  how- 
ever, have  been  ordered  the  day  before  during  the  rain  to  cross 
over  with  his  regiment,  but  of  this  I  have  not  a  distinct  rec- 
ollection.    The  army  I  know  was  on  its  march  by  sunrise  on 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        569 

the  morning  of  the  2nd  of  October,  and  continued  the  pur- 
suit (often  in  a  run)  until  the  evening  of  the  5th,  when  the 
enemy  was  overtaken.  During  the  vrhole  of  this  long  and 
arduous  pursuit,  no  man  could  make  greater  exertions  or  use 
more  vigilance  than  you  did  to  overtake  Proctor,  whilst  the 
skill  and  promptitude  with  which  you  arranged  the  troops  for 
battle,  and  the  distinguished  zeal  and  bravery  you  evinced  dur- 
ing its  continuance,  merited  and  received  my  highest  approba- 
tion. 

In  short,  sir,  from  the  time  I  joined  you  to  the  moment  of 
our  separation,  I  believe  that  no  commander  ever  did  or  could 
make  greater  exertions  than  you  did  to  effect  the  great  objects 
of  the  campaign.  I  admired  your  plans,  and  thought  them 
executed  with  great  energj-;  particularly  your  order  of  bat- 
tle and  arrangements  for  landing  on  the  Canada  shore  vrere 
calculated  to  inspire  every  officer  and  man  with  a  confidence 
that  we  could  not  be  defeated  by  any  thing  like  our  own  num- 
ber. 

Until  after  I  had  served  the  campaign  of  1813,  I  was  not 
aware  of  the  difficulties  which  you  had  to  encounter  as  com- 
mander of  the  north-western  army.  I  have  since  often  said, 
and  still  do  believe,  that  the  duties  assigned  to  you  on  that 
occasion  w^ere  more  arduous  and  difficult  to  accomplish  than 
any  I  had  ever  known  confided  to  any  commander;  and  with 
respect  to  the  zeal  and  fidelity  with  which  you  executed  that 
high  and  important  trust,  there  are  thousands  in  Kentucky, 
as  well  as  myself,  who  believed  it  could  not  have  been  com- 
mitted to  better  hands. 

With  sentiments  of  the  most  sincere  regard  and  esteem,  I 
have  the  honour  to  be,  with  great  respect,  your  obedient  sei'\'- 
ant, 

Isaac  Shelby 
Maj  Gen  Wm  Harrison  .     . 

Perry  TO  Harrison  -^m:&i^::i 

Newport,  August  18,  1817 

Dawson,  Harrison,  423 

I\lY  Dear  Sir, 

I  have  received  your  letter  of  the  11th  ult.  in  which  you  re- 
quest me  to  reply  to  the  following  questions,  viz,  first, 
'Whether  the  statements  made  by  governor  Shelby  in  his  let- 

39—22664 


570  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

tor  to  you  of  the  21st  April,  1816,  be  substantially  correct?' 
to  Avhich  I  reply  in  the  affirmative.  Secondly,  'Whether  you 
did  ever,  cither  in  the  council  held  at  Sandwich  or  in  private 
conversation  with  me,  evince  anything  like  an  indisposition 
to  i)U]'sue  the  British  army  by  one  of  the  two  routes  which 
were  under  consideration?"  to  v.hich  I  answer  in  the  negative. 
In  a  conversation  which  I  held  v\-ith  you  the  morning  prior  to 
the  assembling  of  the  general  council  at  Sandwich,  you  ap- 
peared particularly  desirous  of  attempting  to  cut  off  the  re- 
treat of  the  British  army  by  the  route  from  port  Talbot.  To 
your  arguments  in  favour  of  this  measure  I  opposed  our  lim- 
ited means  of  transportation,  and  the  great  difficulty  and  un- 
certainty of  the  lake  navigation  at  that  season  of  the  year. 
These  obstacles  appeared  to  induce  you  to  have  recourse  to  the 
measure  which  was  afterwards  adopted. 

Although  I  have  little  or  no  pretensions  to  military  knowl- 
edge as  relates  to  an  army,  still  I  may  be  allowed  to  bear  testi- 
mony to  your  zeal  and  activity  in  the  pursuit  of  the  British 
army  under  general  Proctor,  and  to  say,  the  prompt  change 
made  by  you  in  the  order  of  battle  on  discovering  the  position 
of  the  enemy  always  has  appeared  to  me  to  have  evinced  a 
high  degree  of  rnilitary  talent.  I  concur  most  sincerely  with 
the  venerable  governor  Shelby  in  his  general  approbation  of 
your  conduct  (as  far  as  it  came  under  my  observation)  in  that 
campaign.     With  great  regard,  I  am,  my  dear  sir,  your  friend. 

0.  H.  Perry 
I\Iaj.  Gen.  W.  H.  Hareison 

Gibson  to  Secretary  of  State 

Jeffersonville  Oct.  9th  1813 

Har.  Pa.  446-^4  9 

Dear  Sir  : 

Presuming  that  some  erroneous  statements  may  have  here- 
tofore been  made  to  you,  The  Ilonble.  Secretary  of  War,  or  His 
Excellency  the  President,  respecting  my  conduct  whilst  acting 
Covemor  of  this  Territory  (Indiana)  in  the  acceptance  of  cer- 
tain rangeing  companies  And  in  order  to  repel  any  malev- 
olent misrepresentations  or  insinuations  that  may  hereafter 
be  made  against  me  upon  that  subject  I  now  take  the  liberty  of 
giving  you  a  succinct  detail  of  my  conduct  in  regard  to  those 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        571 

Rangciiig  companies  and  earnestly  solicit  your  friendship  in 
communicating  the  same  to  His  excellency  the  President  and 
Honblc.  the  Secretary  of  War. 

On  the  20th  of  March  lilt.  I  received  a  circular  letter  [see 
Feb.  27  above]  from  the  Honblo.  Jonathan  Jennings,  (the 
Delegate  from  Indiana  in  Congress)  dated  City  of  Washing- 
ton 27th  February  1813  informing  me  that  he  had  made  ar- 
rangements with  the  Honble.  Secretary  of  War  for  the  raising 
of  Four  additional  Companies  of  Rangers  to  consist  of  Five 
Commissioned  ofTicers  and  One  Hundred  and  one  noncommis- 
sioned officers  and  privates  to  be  stationed  in  the  Territory 
for  the  protection  of  the  Frontier,  that  the  men  were  then  to 
meet  and  elect  their  officers,  and  then  make  a  tender  of  their 
services  to  the  Governor  or  Secretary  of  the  Territory,  who 
should  recommend  the  officers  to  His  Excellency  the  Presi- 
dent, whereupon  commissions  would  be  forwarded  from  the 
war  Department.  A  number  of  Mr.  Jennings'  circulars  of 
the  same  tenor  and  date,  were  received  by  individuals  at  the 
time  I  received  the  one  addressed  to  me  and  notwithstanding 
my  conviction  of  the  impropriety  of  acting  officially  upon  the 
t29si  dixit  of  even  the  Honble  Jon.  Jennings,  I  was  importuned 
by  offers  of  companies,  pursuant  to  the  circulars  and  the 
alarming  cricis  in  which  the  territory  was  placed  by  savage 
depredations  and  menaces ;  induced  me  to  act  under  the  letter. 
The  result  has  however  proved  that  a  contrary  determination 
in  me,  would  not  only  have  been  adviseable  but  prudent.  My 
determination  to  act  being  avowed,  Lieut.  Craven  Payton  then 
of  one  of  the  old  Companies  of  U.  S.  Rangers  tendered  him- 
self, and  proposed  to  raise  a  company  either  in  the  Territory 
or  from  Kentucky,  From  my  personal  knowledge  of  Mr.  Pay- 
ton,  information  of  the  respectability  of  his  connections  and 
the  warm  recommendations  of  Colonel  William  Russell  of  the 
7th  U.  S.  Regiment  (under  whom  Mr.  Peyton  had  served  upon 
his  and  Governor  Edward's  excursion  to  Peoria)  I  accepted 
of  his  offer  and  directed  him  to  repair  to  Kentucky,  raise  his 
company  as  immediately  as  possible  (for  I  considered  that 
being  raised  and  brought  from  thence,  they  would  be  a  great 
acquisition  to  our  strength  and  phisical  means  of  defence) 
and  repair  by  the  way  of  Jeffersonville  to  Velonia,  from  which 
latter  place  an  Expedition  was  intended  to  be  marched  under 
command  of  Col.  Russell  against  the  Mississineway  Indians. 


r)72  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Thus  I  considered  one  of  the  four  companies  disposed  of. 
About  this  time  Capt.  Pierre  Andre  tendered  his  services,  was 
accepted  and  the  officers  recommended  by  me.  Thus  a  second 
company  was  disposed  of. 

A  few  days  afterwards  Capt.  WilHam  Hargrove  tendered 
himself  and  company  to  me,  and  I  accepted  his  offer  and  early 
in  April  he  was  ordered  by  me  to  report  himself  to  Colonel 
Paissell.  Thus  I  considered  a  third  company  disposed  of.  It 
may  not  be  improper  here  to  observe  that  oweing  to  a  neglect 
in  Capt.  Hargrove's  Muster  Maker,  his  Muster  Rolls  did  not 
come  on  to  me,  consequently  I  could  not  recommend  his  com- 
pany not  knowing  who  they  had  elected  as  their  oflicers. 

In  the  latter  part  of  March  or  beginning  of  April  Capt. 
[Williamson]  Dunn  (of  Jefferson  County)  v/ent  on  to  Vin- 
cennes  with  the  muster  roll  of  his  company  which  I  accepted 
and  shortly  after  recommended  the  officers.  Then  and  there  was 
the  four  companies  compleat.  About  this  time  Capt.  [Patrick] 
Shields  of  Harrison  County  Capt.  [James]  Bigger  of  Clark, 
and  Capt.  [Frederick]  Shoults  of  Franklin  tendered  them- 
selves (in  person  or  by  letter)  and  companies  whom  I  sever- 
ally rejected,  because  I  considered  the  four  companies  already 
accepted  of. 

I  will  now  remark  as  to  Capt.  Peyton  and  Hargrove,  that 
they  are  athletic,  courageous  and  enterprising  men,  men  whose 
patriotism  have  always  been  held  in  the  highest  estimation 
and  their  companies  have  since  the  month  of  April  last 
peformed  very  arduous  and  beneficial  services  in  the  protec- 
toin  of  our  frontier. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Dr.  Sir  with  sentiments  of  the  high- 
est consideration  and  esteem  Your  obd.  and  very  Humble 
servant. 

Jno.  Gibson 
Secry.  of  hidiana  Territory 
The  Honble  James  Monroe,  Secretary  of  State  of  the  U.  S. 

Washington  City 

P.  S.  His  Excellency  Gov.  Posey  has  written  fully  to  the 
Honble.  The  Secretary  of  War  upon  this  subject.  I  beg  leave 
to  refer  you  to  his  letters  for  further  particulars.  J.  G. 


HARllISOX:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        573 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  91) 

Head  Quarters  Detroit  10th  Oct.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  lSl-18.', 

Sir: 

Previously  to  my  leaving  Sandwich  with  the  army  I  had 
received  a  deputation  from  the  Tawas  [Ottowas]  and  a  few 
Chippewas  who  had  abandoned  the  British  soliciting  forgive- 
ness and  desiring  to  know  upon  what  terms  they  could  be 
again  taken  under  the  protection  of  the  U.  States.  I  returned 
for  answer  that  the  final  decision  of  their  fate  rested  with  the 
Government  that  I  could  only  suspend  hostilities  against  them 
which  would  be  done  upon  the  condition  of  their  bringing  in 
their  v/ives  and  children  as  hostages  and  immediately  joining 
their  arms  to  ours.  This  proposition  was  readily  agreed  to 
but  as  the  arrangement  could  not  be  made  before  the  march  of 
the  army  I  directed  Genl.  IMcAilhur  to  attend  to  it.  Accord- 
ingly after  my  departui-e,  the  Chiefs  came  in  attended  by 
those  of  the  IMiami  Tribe  and  some  Potawatimies  all  of  whom 
requested  to  be  allowed  the  same  terms.  They  are  now  en- 
camped about  three  miles  from  this  Town  with  their  families. 
A  few  miles  further  are  the  band  of  Potawatimies  headed  by 
IMarpock,  the  most  inveterate  of  our  enemies.  From  him  also 
some  feint  propositions  have  been  made  to  Genl.  McArthur 
but  I  am  convinced  with  no  other  view  then  to  wait  the  issue 
of  the  contest  upon  the  river  Thames.  I  informed  you  some- 
time ago  that  the  Wyandot  chief  Walk-in-the- Water  informed 
me  that  he  had  prepared  his  warriors  to  join  me  upon  my 
arrival  here,  I  believe  he  did  separate  himself  from  the  Hos- 
tile party  upon  our  landing  and  was  in  the  neighborhood  of 
Sandwich  upon  our  arrival  there  but  he  fell  back  upon  the 
Thames  probably  fearful  offallinginwith  our  mounted  militia. 
Upon  my  advance  up  the  Thames  he  sent  a  flag  to  me  to  know 
my  pleasure.  I  directed  him  to  remove  with  his  women  and 
children  up  the  creek  upon  which  he  was  then  encamped  and 
remain  there.  He  did  so  and  I  expect  him  today.  I  am  very 
much  at  a  loss  to  know  what  to  do  with  these  people.  There 
are  many  considerations  of  policy  which  urge  the  pardoning 
of  the  small  tribe  of  Tawas  and  such  of  the  Wyandots  as  have 
acted  with  the  British ;  they  have  also  some  claims  upon  our 
humanity  as  they  certainly  saved  the  inhabitants  of  this  ter- 


r,7i  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ritory  from  a  general  masscre.  The  citizens  are  very  desi- 
rous of  having  them  spared  under  the  full  conviction  that  their 
safety  will  be  better  ascertained  by  that  means  than  by  any 
other  that  could  be  adopted. 

The  Miamios  and  Potawatimies  deserve  no  mercy,  they  were 
the  tribes  most  favored  by  us.  They  have  been  (the  latter 
particularly)  our  most  cruel  and  inveterate  enemies.  Under 
present  circumstances  however  it  would  be  proper  to  grant 
them  an  armistice  in  order  to  get  them  to  their  own  grounds 
where  they  will  be  perfectly  in  our  power.  Genl.  McArthur 
has  pledged  himself  too  far  with  them  to  authorize  me  to 
strike  them  without  some  new  provocation,  this  they  will  take 
care  not  to  give.  Indeed  I  believe  that  the  Indian  War  may 
be  terminated  with  a  little  management  without  any  further 
bloodshed  and  the  terms  of  peace  dictated  by  the  U.  States  un- 
less we  suffer  the  British  again  to  get  footing  in  our  Territory. 
I  should  be  thankful  for  instructions  from  the  government  on 
this  subject  and  the  course  of  conduct  to  be  pursued  with  the 
Indians  as  soon  as  possible. 

In  granting  them  an  armistice  I  was  governed  by  the 
following  considerations— Should  we  press  upon  them  with- 
out destroying  them,  they  will  join  the  British  army  on  Lake 
Ontario.  Although  the  possession  of  this  country  v/ill  cut  off 
the  communication  between  the  Indians  of  the  Wabash,  Illi- 
nois, Huron  and  St.  Joseph  Rivers  until  we  are  in  possession 
of  l\Iontreal,  the  northern  Indians  will  be  entirely  independ- 
ent of  us. 

Arrangements  have  been  made  by  Commodore  Perry  and 
myself  to  send  a  detachment  of  troops  in  some  of  his  vessels 
immediately  to  !\Iacinac  for  the  reduction  of  that  post  and  St. 
Josephs.  It  will  sail  from  here  I  hope  the  day  after  tomorrow. 
The  assistance  or  neutrality  of  the  Chippewas  and  Tawas 
would  greatly  facilitate  the  reduction  of  these  posts.  I  see 
by  the  late  papers  that  there  is  a  great  danger  of  a  general 
defection  of  the  southern  Indians.  There  is  a  constant  and 
regular  communication  between  them  and  the  hostile  tribes  in 
this  quarter  the  former  will  soon  be  informed  of  the  extremity 
to  which  the  Indians  here  have  been  reduced  by  listening  to 
the  insidious  councils  of  the  British  and  it  may  have  the  effect 
of  preventing  the  defection  of  such  of  the  southern  tribes  as 
have  not  yet  taken  up  the  Tomahawk  against  us. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        575 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  proclamation  which  I 
issued  upon  my  first  arrival  here.  The  superior  offic(n-s  of 
the  Territory  are  nuich  wanted.  I  shall  take  upon  myself  to 
arm  and  organize  the  militia  for  their  temporaiy  defence. 

Gen.  Proctor  had  placed  the  upper  district  of  U.  Canada 
under  martial  law  some  days  before  our  landing  so  far  as  to 
seize  and  send  off  suspected  persons  and  to  take  from  the 
farmers  the  necessary  subsistance  for  his  troops.  I  shall  con- 
tinue the  government  upon  the  same  footing  until  I  receive 
the  directions  of  the  President.  The  Kentucky  volunteers 
turned  out  only  to  effect  the  conquest  of  this  district  they  will 
immediately  return  home. 

The  public  buildings  of  every  description  at  Maiden  were 
burned,  as  were  the  barracks  and  magazines  in  the  fort  at  this 
place.  Is  it  the  intention  of  the  government  to  have  the  fort 
at  Maiden  repaired  or  shall  a  new  one  be  built  on  the  Island 
of  Bois  Blanc  which  is  opposite  to  Maiden  on  our  side  of  the 
channel? 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  a  [Proclamation] 
[see  Sept.  29  above] 

;^  -  William  Henry  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Meigs 
Head-quarters,  Detroit,  Oct.  11,  1813 

Niles*  Register  V,  186 

Dear  Governor  : 

You  will  have  heard  before  this  reaches  you  that  I  was 
fortunate  enough  to  overtake  general  Proctor,  and  his  tawny 
allies,  and  to  give  them  a  complete  drubbing.  I  have  six  hun- 
dred and  one  prisoners  of  the  British  regulars,  officers  in- 
cluded, among  which  there  are  two  colonels. 

Nothing  but  infatuation  could  have  governed  genl.  Proctor's 
conduct.  The  day  that  I  landed  below  Maiden  he  had  at  his 
disposal  upwards  of  3,000  Indian  warriors;  his  regular  force, 
reinforced  by  the  militia  of  the  district,  would  have  made  his 
numbers  nearly  equal  to  my  aggregate ;  which,  on  the  day  of 
landing,  did  not  exceed  4500.  The  papers  have  greatly  exag- 
gerated the  number  of  militia  from  Kentucky;  those  which 
embarked  with  me  at  Portage,  did  not  amount  to  three  thou- 
sand rank  and  file,  and  several  hundred  of  them  were  left  in 
the  islands. 


576  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

The  Indians  were  extremely  desirous  of  fighting  us  at 
Maiden.  I  enclose  you  Tecumseh's  speech  to  Proctor;  [Sept. 
18  above]  it  is  at  once  an  evidence  of  the  talents  of  the  former, 
and  the  great  defect  of  them  in  the  latter.  His  inferior  offi- 
cers say  that  his  conduct  has  been  a  continued  series  of  blun- 
ders. He  manifested,  indeed,  some  judgement  in  the  choice  of 
his  field  of  battle,  as  he  was  so  posted  that  I  could  not  turn 
him,  and  could  only  oppose  a  line  of  equal  extent  to  his.  How- 
ever, the  contest  was  not  for  a  moment  doubtful.  The  greater 
part  of  his  Indians  were  in  the  air  (according  to  the  Persian 
military  phraseology)  and  his  regulars  broken  and  were  made 
prisoners  by  a  single  charge  of  mounted  infantry.  We  took 
up  on  the  ground,  or  near  it,  a  fine  brass  field  train  of  artil- 
lery, Several  of  the  pieces  are  the  trophies  of  the  revolution, 
taken  at  Saratoga  and  York,  and  surrendered  by  gen.  Hull. 
The  number  of  small  arms  and  military  stores  taken  by  us  or 
destroyed  by  the  enemy  is  immense.  My  force  in  the  action, 
of  all  descriptions,  was  short  of  2500. 

I  am  preparing  an  expedition  to  Michilimackinac,  and  an- 
other to  Long  Point,  to  destroy  at  the  latter  a  depot  of  pro- 
visions. 

I  shall  send  orders  to  general  [John  S.]  Gano,  by  this  con- 
veyance. It  is  probable  that  the  greater  part  of  his  troops 
may  be  dismissed  in  a  short  time.  The  Indians  in  this  neigh- 
borhood, are  submitting  at  discretion.  .,  ;^ 

I  am  your  friend. 

;  ;  ..,.,  Wm.  H.  Harrison 

To  Governor  Meigs 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  93.) 

Head  Quarters  Detroit  11th  Oct.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  192 

Sir: 

Upon  submitting  my  official  letter  to  you  of  the  9th  [see 
above]  to  Gov.  Shelby,  he  has  convinced  me  that  I  have  greatly 
overrated  our  force  in  the  action  of  the  5th  and  that  it  fell 
short  of  two  thousand  five  hundred  of  every  description. 

It  is  also  proper  to  observe  that  as  soon  as  the  Regiment 
(Col.  [James]  Simrals)  which  was  brought  up  by  the  Cover- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        577 

nor  to  reinforce  the  left  line  arrived  the  Indians  gave  up  the 
contest.  •":    U  :'^ 

I  have  omitted  to  mention  the  name  of  Capt.  [Angus  S.] 
Langham,  Brigade  Major  to  Genl.  Cass  as  one  of  seven  or 
eight  who  pursued  the  enemy  for  several  miles  after  the  rest 
of  the  troops  had  halted. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir  Your  Humble 

bervt.  WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

Honble.  John  Armstrong  Secy,  of  War  ^^  ^ 

Armistice  WITH  Indians 

Detroit  Oct.  14,  1813 

Hot.  Pa.  206,  207 

Terms  of  an  Armistice  entered  into  between  William 
Henry  Harrison  Major  General  in  the  service  of  the  United 
States  and  the  Tribes  of  Indians  called  the  Miamis,  Potawa- 
TOMIES,  Wyandots,  Weas,  Eel  River  Miamies,  Ottaways, 
and  Chippeways 

Article  1st.  There  shall  be  a  suspension  of  hostilities  between 
the  United  States  and  said  Tribes  from  this  day 
until  the  pleasure  of  the  Government  of  the 
former  shall  be  known.  In  the  mean  time  the 
said  Tribes  may  retire  to  their  usual  hunting 
grounds  and  there  remain  unmolested  provided 
they  behave  themselves  peacebly. 
Article  2nd.  In  the  event  of  any  murder  or  other  depredation, 
being  committed  upon  any  of  the  citizens  of  the 
United  States  by  any  of  the  other  Tribes  of  In- 
dians, those  who  are  parties  to  these  presents, 
shall  immediately  unite  their  efforts  to  punish  the 
offenders. 
Article  3rd.  Hostages  shall  be  given  by  said  Tribes  who  shall 
be  sent  into  the  Settlements  and  there  remain, 
until  the  termination  of  all  the  differences  with 
the  United  States  and  said  Tribes  by  a  Council 
to  be  held  for  that  purpose. 
Article  4th.  All  the  prisoners  in  the  possession  of  said  Tribes, 
shall  be  immediately  brought  to  Fort  Wayne  or 
some  other  post,  and  delivered  to  the  Command- 
ing officer. 


578 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Done  at  Detroit  this  14th  day  of  October  1813  and  of  the 
Independence  of  the  United  States  the  thirty  eighth. 

In  testimony  whereof  the  said  Major  General  and  the  Chiefs 
representing  said  Tribes  here  present,  set  their  hands  and 
affix  their  seals. 

Wm.  Henry  Harrison 


Witnesses 

Lewis  Cass,  Brig.  Gen.  Army  U.S...    m 
Wm.  p.  Anderson  Col.  24th  Reg.  Inft.  '3 

John  Miller  Col.  19  Reg.  Inft '^ 

E.  P.  Gaines  Adjt.  General & 

D.  Trimble  A.D.  Camp  to  the  Major  -g 
General ^ 

R.  D,  Richardson  D.  Com  of  Ord- 
nance  -2 

B.  P.  Stickney  Indian  Agent i 

Robert  Abbott  French  Interpreter . .  ^ 
William  Conner,  Delatvare  Interpreter 


J. 


Tobinibee  his  X  mark 
Magonago  his  X  mark 
Wagishgomet  his  X  mark 
<  Lamanpoch  his  X  mark 
Onocksa  his  X  mark 

CoNQEE 

Meshewa 

Pocanna  his  X  mark 
Osage  his  X  mark 
WoNKEMA  his  X  mark 

Retonga   his   X   mark   or    Charley 
Chief  of  the  Eel  River  Miamis 


Bts.  Chandonnae,  Potawatomie 
Interpreter 

DircHOUQurr,  Shatvnee  Interpreter. . . 

Louis  Beaufait,  Taway  &  Chipeway 
Interpreter 


1   Newa  Shosa  or  Stone  Eater  his  X 

Imark 
Papahongua  or  Lapousur  his  X  mark 

i  ^  fCHAWKAWBE  his  X  mark 
John  Walker,  Wyandot  Interpreter. .  2s|Shecoha  his  X  mark 

^"^[Jean  Bst.  Rchville  his  X  mark 


a  true  copy  C.  S. 
de  Camp. 


Todd  Extra  Aid 


si 

09  ' 
>^ 

I 


Mash  ke  man  his  X  mark 

Tone  had  Gone  or  the  dog  his  Xmark 

Otish  Quoi  Gonaim  his  X  mark 

O  Tapon  his  X  mark 

Apagona  his  X  mark 

O  Co  NonGowsy  his    X  mark 

Waitaishoo  Na  Wa  his  X  mark 

Awasho  Qui  Juk  his  X  mark 

Kit  TWA  wiOTUM  his  X  mark 

Kow  BE  Miscobeo  his  X  mark 

Wa-gaw  his  X  mark 

Pash-kiesh  quash  ROM  his  X  mark 

O  Gu-Bonawke  his  X  mark 

PoN-Ti-ACK  queen  of  the  Tawas  and 

Ottoways  her  X  mark 
Kenobamia  or  otter  his  X  mark 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        579 

•  f?;*?/'^  :'  X;i>'        Chepe  or  (?)  his  X  mark 
•  7:  .■• .  V  -.; ,  PoMA  GwAMO  OF  Thundeu  his  X  mark 

50  i'Mayar  or  Walk  in  the  Water  his 
o       X  mark 

g  <  R08URAHOR  or  Armewas  his  X  mark 
(^iTahhon  of  HOATA  his  X  mark 
[Orory  miah  his  X  mark 

-^        ~        A  Proclamation  -  ^    • 

#;^k^         Detroit  Oct.  16,  1813 

;  .•    •  '       ■  NUes' Register,  V,  215 

An  Armistice  [see  above,  Oct.  14]  having  been  concluded 
between  the  United  States  and  the  tribes  of  Indians  called 
Miamies,  Potawatamies,  Eel  river  Miamies,  Weas,  Ottoways, 
Chippeways,  and  Wyandots,  to  continue  until  the  pleasure  of 
the  government  of  the  former  shall  be  known;  I  do  hereby 
make  known  the  same  to  all  whom  it  may  concern.  The  ar- 
mistice is  preparatory  to  a  general  council,  to  be  held  with 
these  different  tribes;  and,  until  its  termination,  they  have 
been  permitted  to  retire  to  their  hunting-grounds,  and  there 
to  remain  unmolested,  if  they  behave  themselves  peaceably. 
They  have  surrendered  into  our  hands  hostages  from  each 
tribe;  and  have  agreed  immediately  to  restore  all  our  prison- 
ers in  their  possession,  and  unite  with  us  in  the  chastisement 
of  any  Indians  who  may  commit  any  aggression  upon  our 
frontiers.  Under  these  circumstances,  I  exhort  all  citizens 
living  upon  the  frontiers  to  respect  the  terms  of  said  armis- 
tice, and  neither  to  .engage  in  nor  countenance  any  expedition 
against  their  person  or  property ;  leaving  to  the  government, 
with  whom  the  constitution  has  left  it,  to  pursue  such  course, 
with  respect  to  the  Indians  as  they  may  think  most  compati- 
ble with  sound  policy  and  the  best  interests  of  the  country. 

Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  94.) 

-i ,  .    Head  Quarters  Detroit  16th  October  1813 

Har.  Pa.  193-195 

Sm: 

A  detachment  of  the  army  under  the  command  of  Brig. 
Genl.  [Duncan]  McArthur  has  been  for  some  days  waiting  at 
this  place,  for  the  necessary  provisions  to  proceed  to  Lake 


580  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Michigan.  I  am  sorry  to  inform  you  however  that  from  the 
effects  of  a  violent  storm  there  is  now  no  prospect  of  accom- 
plishing that  desirable  object  the  reduction  of  Michillimack- 
inac  this  season.  It  is  with  the  greatest  regret  I  inform  you 
that  it  is  almost  reduced  to  a  certainty  that  two  of  our  schoon- 
ers have  been  lost  on  Lake  Erie  the  "Chippewa"  and  "Ohio" 
the  former  loaded  with  the  baggage  of  the  Troops  from  Bass 
Island,  the  latter  with  flour  and  salt  provisions  from  Cleve- 
land. Our  whole  stock  of  the  latter  on  hand  at  this  place  is 
forty  barrels  nor  is  there  a  possibility  of  obtaining  a  supply 
for  a  considerable  time  as  the  "Ohio"  contained  nearly  the 
whole  of  the  contractors  stock  of  that  article.  Upon  a  con- 
sultation with  the  two  Brigadiers  and  Commodore  Perry  and 
Capt.  [Jesse  D.]  Elliott,  it  was  unanimously  determined  that 
the  season  is  too  far  advanced  to  attempt  an  expedition  to 
Maccinac  if  it  were  not  commenced  in  two  or  three  days  and 
there  was  no  hope  of  thQ  supplies  being  obtained  in  that  time. 

It  is  generally  believed  here  that  Genl.  Proctor  dispatched 
an  order  to  the  Commanding  officer  at  Macinac  to  destroy  the 
post  and  retreat  by  the  way  of  Grand  River  at  any  rate  it  is 
not  a  matter  of  much  importance  to  have  that  place  in  our 
possession  during  the  winter,  cut  off  as  it  is  from  a  communi- 
cation with  the  rest  of  the  world. 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  the  terms  of  an 
armistice  [see  Oct.  14  above]  concluded  with  seven  of  the  late 
hostile  Tribes  of  Indians.  I  have  no  doubt  of  the  sincerity  of 
their  repentance  excepting  perhaps  the  celebrated  Main  Poke 
and  of  him  I  judge  only  from  the  former  inveteracy  of  his 
hate.  I  have  promised  the  Tribes,  that  remained  faithful  to 
us  that  their  annuities  shall  be  sent  them ;  they  deserve  them 
and  I  am  obliged  also  to  promise  the  late  Hostile  Tribes  that 
they  shall  receive  occasional  supplies  of  provisions.  Unless 
this  is  done  they  must  plunder  the  inhabitants  which  will 
again  produce  hostilities. 

I  have  received  no  instructions  from  the  war  office  for  sev- 
eral months  and  I  am  much  at  a  loss  to  know  what  is  expected 
from  me. 

I  have  the  Honour  to  be  with  great  respect  Sir 
Yr.  Humb.  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

Honble.  John  Armstrong  Secy,  of  War 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        581 

P.  S.  The  late  storm  has  deprived  us  of  a  great  deal  of  val- 
uable property  taken  from  the  enemy.  A  small  schooner  laded 
with  camp  equipage  ordnance  and  ordnance  stores  and  several 
boats  were  abandoned  by  them  and  I  fear  that  very  few  of 
the  articles  will  be  recovered  but  all  the  artillery  taken  in  the 
field  is  safe.  I  greatly  fear  too  some  of  the  prisoners  may 
have  escaped,  they  were  under  a  militia  guard  and  were  scat- 
tered for  several  miles  as  I  am  informed.  However  I  believe 
that  we  shall  be  able  to  muster  six  hundred  exclusively  of  the 
officers.  _  W.  H.  H. 

A  Proclamation 

Sandwich  Oct  17,  1813 

Niles'  Register  V,  215 

Whereas,  by  the  combined  operations  of  the  land  and  naval 
forces  under  our  command,  those  of  the  enemy  within  the 
upper  district  of  Upper  Canada  have  been  captured  or  de- 
stroyed, and  the  said  district  is  now  in  the  quiet  possession  of 
our  troops;  it  becomes  necessary  to  provide  for  its  govern- 
ment: Therefore,  we  do  hereby  proclaim  and  make  known, 
that  the  rights  and  privileges  of  the  inhabitants^  and  the  laws 
and  customs  of  the  country,  as  they  existed  or  were  in  force 
at  the  period  of  our  arrival,  shall  continue  to  prevail.  All 
magistrates  and  other  civil  officers  are  to  resume  the  exercise 
of  their  functions;  previously  taking  oath  to  be  faithful  to 
the  government  of  the  United  States,  as  long  as  they  shall  be 
in  possession  of  the  country.  The  authority  of  all  militia 
commissions  is  suspended,  in  said  district  and  the  officers  re- 
quired to  give  their  parols,  in  such  way  as  the  officer,  who  may 
be  appointed  by  the  commanding  general  to  administer  the 
government^  shall  direct. 

The  inhabitants  of  said  district  are  promised  protection  to 
their  persons  and  property,  with  the  exception  of  those  cases 
embraced  by  the  proclamation  of  general  Proctor,  of  the  [?] 
ult.  which  is  declared  to  be  in  force,  and  the  powers,  therein 
assumed  transferred  to  the  officer  appointed  to  administer  the 
government. 

'        '  ^    Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Oliver  H.  Perry 


582  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

.    Harrison  to  Secretary  op  War 

No.  95 

.,,.«,::  Head  Quarters  Detroit  Oct.  17th  1813 

■■'^-  -'-;  •^•.  v.--:    -  :  .-^:  Har.  Pa.  197-20U 

Sir: 

Among  the  papers  which  were  taken  on  the  5th  Inst,  [illegi- 
ble] to  the  [illegible]  is  a  letter  from  Edward  Bayne  (adju- 
tant genl.  to  Sir  George  Provost)  to  Major  GenL  Proctor  a 
copy  of  which  I  have  the  honor  to  inclose  to  your  address. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect  . 

Sir  your  Humble  Servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 

~  Head  Quarters  Kingston  18th  Sept.  1813 

In  the  letter  which  I  had  the  honor  of  addressing  you  on 
the  16th  Inst.  I  informed  you  that  I  had  by  order  of  the  com- 
mander of  the  Forces,  on  that  day  announced  to  Major  Genl. 
De  Rottenburg  that  considerations  of  a  publick  nature  would 
induce  his  Excellency  to  remove  his  Head  Quarters  to  Mon- 
treal about  the  middle  of  this  month. 

I  was  at  the  same  time  instructed  to  acquaint  the  Major 
Genl.  Commanding  that  his  Excellency  confided  in  his  judg- 
ment and  discretion  to  determine  how  far  it  would  be  prudent 
to  continue  to  contend  against  the  increasing  evils  and  diffi- 
culties with  which  the  centre  and  Right  Divisions  have  to 
struggle.  This  important  decision  must  in  a  great  measure 
depend  on  the  issue  of  impending  events  of  the  campaign 
which  cannot  be  much  longer  procrastinated.  It  is  very  much 
to  be  regreted  that  a  decisive  action  between  the  two  squad- 
rons on  the  Lake  Ontario  has  been  so  long  delayed,  and  has 
unavoidably  entailed  upon  the  army  a  corresponding  state  of 
inaction  and  in  a  great  degree  involved  it  in  the  very  critical 
state  in  which  it  is  now  placed.  As  on  the  issue  of  that  all 
important  event  the  ulterior  operations  of  the  army  campaign 
have  been  necessarily  suspended,  for  offensive  military  opera- 
tions presented  little  prospect  of  being  prosecuted  with  suc- 
cess without  the  aid  and  cooperation  and  more  particularly 
the  protection  to  be  derived  from  a  superior  maratime  force. 
At  the  same  time  it  would  have  been  highly  impolitic  to  have 
anticipated  the  failure  of  that  support  and  by  adopting  meas- 
ures of  precaution  to  have  relinquished  one  foot  of  the  ground 
on  which  we  so  proudly  stand.    Such  a  measure  would  have 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        583 

lost  us  all  our  wavering  friends  and  would  have  proved  dis- 
tructive  to  our  Indian  alliance. 

The  superior  resources  of  the  enemy  have  indeed  enabled 
him  to  render  our  situation  critical  and  difficult  but  it  still 
does  not  yet  amount  to  that  point  as  to  render  a  retrograde 
movement  indispensible  and  untill  that  is  the  case  it  should 
be  avoided  by  every  possible  exertion  and  devise. 

Should  however  such  a  measure  become  unfortunately  un- 
avoidable, it  is  his  Excellency's  express  Commands  that  it  be 
not  resorted  to  untill  its  necessity  and  the  mode  of  carrying  it 
into  effect  has  been  previously  well  weighed  and  considered 
and  all  necessary  arrangements  made.  That  under  every  cir- 
cumstance it  be  conducted  with  order  and  regularity.  His 
Excellency  trusts  that  the  Advanced  divisions  of  the  army  are 
not  incumbered  with  heavy  or  superfluous  baggage.  No  con- 
siderations of  that  nature  is  to  be  suffered  to  impede  the 
march  of  the  troops  for  one  single  moment.  The  removal  of 
all  sick  and  convalesents  must  be  previously  provided  for. 
Every  position  which  the  country  affords  is  to  be  occupied 
and  defended  so  that  the  enemy  be  made  to  pay  dearly  for 
every  step  he  advances.  All  retrograde  movements  are  to  be 
resorted  to  with  reluctance  and  they  are  to  be  as  limited  as 
the  circumstances  which  cause  them  will  admit  and  they  are 
never  to  be  hurried  or  accelerated  unless  warranted  by  cir- 
cumstances of  peculiar  urgency. 

Should  your  situation  become  desperate  you  are  recom- 
mended to  adopt  a  line  of  conduct  suitable  to  the  urgency  of 
the  case  and  as  every  thing  must  be  sacraficed  by  a  retrograde 
movement  you  will  exaust  every  resource  and  means  within 
your  power  before  you  resort  to  that  measure.  This  policy 
particularly  applies  to  the  Marine  Force  and  you  will  there- 
fore impress  upon  Capt.  Barclay  in  whose  zeal  talents  and 
determined  Fortitude  the  commander  of  the  Forces  has  the 
most  firm  reliance,  that  the  squadron  under  his  command,  be- 
ing inevitably  involved  in  the  common  fate  of  the  Military 
Positions  on  Lake  Erie,  is  to  be  devoted  to  their  preservation, 
and  if  necessary,  sacraficed  to  the  last  atom.  Sooner  than  a 
vestage  be  left  to  swell  the  pride  of  an  arrogant  Foe  and  you 
will  be  careful  on  your  part,  that  nothing  that  can  be  in  any 
way  useful  to  the  Enemy,  be  suffered  to  fall  into  his  hands. 
His  Excellency  looks  with  confidence  to  your  exertions  that 


584  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

every  injury  and  annoyance  which  it  is  possible  for  the  com- 
bined discipline  and  Gallantry  of  the  Forces  under  your  Com- 
mand to  perform  will  be  called  forth  to  cripple  and  repulse 
the  enemy. 

His  Excellency  is  particularly  solicitous,  that  the  relative 
dependence  and  mutual  support  that  exists  between  the  Cen- 
tre and  right  divisions  may  never  be  lost  sight  of.  He  rec- 
ommends that  every  attention  and  exertion  be  made  to  keep 
the  communication  open  both  by  land  and  water  and  that  a 
perfect  understanding  prevail,  of  the  relative  state,  plans  and 
occurrances  of  each  division  in  as  far  as  they  may  influence 
the  operations  of  the  other  exist.  With  this  view  his  Excel- 
lency has  been  pleased  to  sanction  Major  Genl.  DeRothenburg 
opening  any  publick  dispatch  to  his  address  from  you  under 
circumstances  of  Emergency  that  you  may  not  be  able  to  re- 
port officially  seperately  to  the  Major  Genl.  in  order  that  your 
wants  may  meet  with  prompt  relief  when  circumstances  admit 
of  his  affording  it  to  you. 

Commodore  Sir  James  Yeo  returned  here  on  Thursday  last. 
His  third  Cruise  I  regret  to  say  has  notbeen  marked  with  any  ad- 
vantage whatever  on  our  part.  A  great  deal  of  maneuvering 
attended  with  distant  cannonading  in  which  the  Enemy  being- 
favoured  by  the  wind  had  probably  the  advantage.  Four  of 
our  men  were  killed  and  I  believe  about  the  same  number 
wounded.  The  commander  sails  again  this  evening  with  the 
Squadron  and  will  afford  convoy  to  all  the  small  vessels  with 
stores.  If  it  is  deemed  elegible  a  proposed  attack  will  be  made 
on  the  Enemy's  position  at  Fort  George  previous  to  Major 
General  DeRothenburg  getting  that  occupied  by  his  division, 
which  from  the  local  defect  it  is  exposed  to,  and  the  very  har- 
rasing  duties  intailed  upon  the  Troops  has  introduces  among 
them,  disease  and  desertion  to  a  very  great  degree. 

I  envelop  a  letter  which  I  have  received  from  Major  Mc- 
Pherson  commanding  the  10th  Royal  Veterans  Battalion,  and 
you  are  requested  to  make  the  best  arrangements,  and  afford 
such  relief  as  is  in  your  power. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  Sir,  Your  Most  Obedient 
Humble  Servant 

Edward  Baynes,  Adgt  General 
Major  Genl.  Proctor,  Com'd  the  Right  Division 
A  True  Copy.    D.  Trimble  A.  DeC  amp       .-   ;:;..-';=..  ih; 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        585 

General  Orders 

Montreal,  October  18th,  1813. 

Historical  Register  II,  605 

The  commander  of  the  forces  has  the  deepest  regret  in  an- 
nouncing to  the  army,  that  lieutenant  ReifFenstein,  a  staff- 
adjutant,  arrived  yesterday,  and  is  the  bearer  of  the  following 
unpleasant  intelligence.  That  major-general  Proctor  having 
sustained,  by  the  unfortunate  capture  of  the  squadron  on  Lake 
Erie,  the  loss  of  a  very  considerable  portion  of  his  military 
force,  which  was  serving  on  board  that  fleet,  as  well  as  the 
principal  heavy  ordinance  necessary  for  the  defence  of  his  mil- 
itary positions,  commenced  his  retreat  from  the  fort  of  Sand- 
wich on  the  24th  September,  having  previously  dismantled  the 
posts  of  Amherstburg  and  Detroit,  and  burned  and  destroyed 
every  public  building  and  stores  of  every  description. 

The  retreating  regular  force  consisting  of  a  small  detach- 
ment of  royal  artillery,  a  troop  of  provincial  dragoons,  and 
the  remains  of  the  41st  regiment,  in  all  about  450  rank  and 
file — which  was  accompanied  by  a  body  of  Indian  warriors 
from  1000  to  1500. 

The  enemy's  fleet  and  army  appeared  off  Amherstburg  on 
the  26th  September,  and  landed  on  the  following  day,  but  soon 
re-embarked  their  troops  and  proceeded  by  Lake  St.  Clair,  to 
the  mouth  of  the  Thames  river.  The  American  army  was 
again  landed,  and  accompanied  by  gun-boats,  followed  the 
route  .of  major-general  Proctor's  corps,  which  having  been 
much  retarded  by  the  slow  progress  of  loaded  batteaux,  they 
were  enabled  to  come  up  with  the  rear  guard  and  loaded  boats 
on  the  3d  instant,  and  succeeded  in  capturing  the  whole.  Ma- 
jor-general Proctor  being  thus  deprived  of  the  means  of  sup- 
porting his  little  army,  was  under  the  necessity  of  awaiting 
the  enemy's  attack;  which  took  place  at  4  o'clock  on  the  eve- 
ning of  the  5th  instant,  near  the  Moravian  village. 

A  six-pounder  on  the  flank  was,  by  some  unpardonable  neg- 
lect, left  destitute  of  ammunition,  and  the  enemy,  availing 
himself  of  this  unfortunate  circumstance,  pressed  upon  that 
part  of  the  line,  which,  wanting  the  support  of  artillery,  was 
forced  by  the  superior  numbers  of  the  enemy.  Major-general 
Proctor  exerted  himself  to  rally  the  troops,  who  being  ex- 
hausted with  fatigue,  not  having  received  any  provisions  the 

40—22664 


586  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

preceding  day,  were  unable  to  make  adequate  exertions  to  re- 
sist the  superior  numbers  by  which  they  were  assailed. 

The  safety  of  major-general  Proctor,  the  officers  of  his  per- 
sonal staff,  and  some  few  others,  together  with  about  50  men 
has  only  as  yet  been  ascertained.  The  Indian  warriors  re- 
treated towards  Mackedash. 

The  enemy's  forces  employed  on  this  service  is  estimated 
from  10  to  12,000  strong,  including  troops  of  every  descrip- 
tion.    ,  .    . 

'  ■"".     '.Edward  Baynes,  A(Zy.  Gen. 

Petition 

Detroit  Oct  19,  1813 

Hot.  Pa.  208-210 

To  his  Excellency  Brigader  General  Lewis  Cass  commanding 
the  United  States  Troops,  at  Detroit. 

The  Petition  of  the  citizens  of  the  United  States,  of  the 

District  of  Erie  and  Territory  of  Michigan 

May  it  Please  Your  Excellency 

The  distressed  farmers  and  settlers  of  the  river  Raisin,  cit- 
izens of  the  United  States,  who  have  been  drove  from  their 
homes  since  the  month  of  January  last,  by  the  ferocious  sav- 
ages under  the  influence  and  direction  of  the  British  Govern- 
ment, and  of  whom  a  list  accompanies  the  present,  have  ap- 
pointed the  subscribers  a  committee  to  represent  to  you  their 
services  and  present  disastrous  situation,  in  full  confidence 
from  your  Excellency's  known  philanthrophy,  that  you  will 
take  their  peculiar  case  into  your  excellency's  paternal  con- 
sideration. 

A  short  time  before  accounts  of  the  declaration  of  war,  with 
England  reached  this  country,  the  citizens  of  Erie  were  called 
upon,  by  the  local  Government  for  a  draft  from  the  Militia 
for  one  company  to  be  put  into  actual  service ;  but  the  partiot- 
ism  of  this  section  of  the  country  all  volunteered  their  services 
to  the  General  Government,  to  a  man,  and  they  proceeded  to 
elect  their  own  officers  and  organized  the  required  quota;  (in- 
dependent of  the  Volunteers  v/ho  joined  the  cavalry  under  the 
command  of  Capt.  Richard  Smith  of  Detroit,  and  were  posted 
at  the  river  Raisin  as  a  detachment  to  protect  the  settlement 
and  escort  the  mails  to  Detroit — most  hazardous  seiTices) . 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        587 

Shortly  after,  owing  to  the  egregious  misconduct  of  Gen. 
Hull  the  savages  joined  the  British,  who  excited  them  against 
that  exposed  section  of  the  Territory,  in  consequence  of  which, 
the  whole  were  called  into  service,  and  did  actual  duty  in  the 
Fort  at  the  River  Raisin,  and  in  patroling  parties  in  the  vi- 
cinity, until  accounts  were  received  of  the  infamous  capitula- 
tion at  Detroit,  by  a  British  flag  of  truce,  followed  up  by  a 
band  of  savages,  who  generally  plundered  their  private  prop- 
erty, stole  or  wantonly  destroyed  their  cattle  and  horses,  in 
a  most  cruel  manner ;  which  was  arrested  only  by  the  arrival 
of  a  detachment  of  the  United  States  troops  under  the  com- 
mand of  that  brave  veteran.  Col.  [William]  Lewis  who  was 
immediately  joined  by  a  number  of  our  Raisin  citizens,  aiding 
in  the  first  victory,  several  of  v/hom  were  afterwards  slain  in 
the  last  battle  v/here  a  scene  the  most  shocking  to  humanity, 
impossible  to  be  pourtrayed  by  us,  was  perpetrated  on  the  un- 
fortunate prisoners  of  war  who  had  surrendered  on  the  word 
of  General  Proctor  that  they  would  be  protected  from  the  sav- 
ages— but,  where  in  the  dwelling  houses  of  Messrs.  [Hubert] 
LaCroix,  [George]  McDougall,  [Gabriel]  Godfroy,  and  [Jean 
Baptiste]  Conture  (where  the  United  States  Detachment  had 
intrenched  themselves)  they  were  cruelly  mangled,  and 
thrown  alive  in  those  buildings,  which  were  purposely  set  on 
fire  to  conflagrate  the  unfortunate  wounded.  Others  being 
left  in  the  vicinity  exposed  on  the  roads  to  be  eat  up  by  the 
Hogs  and  Dogs ! ! ! — and  not  alloived  to  be  interred — and  where 
their  bones  have  lain  exposed  until  lately,  when  through  the 
auspicious  bravery  of  the  United  States  forces  our  appressors 
have  been  taken,  or  driven  out  of  the  country  and  the  savages 
compelled  to  implore  the  clemency  of  the  General  Government. 
We  beg  leave  to  be  excused  for  this  painful  digi'ession,  to  re- 
turn to  the  forlorn  state  of  the  settlement.  The  Indians,  being 
irritated  at  the  inhabitants  for  the  active  part  they  had  taken 
against  them,  plundered  and  abused  them  afresh,  several  hav- 
ing made  their  escape  towards  the  army  at  Fort  Meigs  and 
Sandusky,  and  the  remainder  driven  from  their  homes  to  De- 
troit, where  they  have  generally  languished  in  poverty  and 
distress,  suffering,  even  here,  every  outrage  from  the  savage 
barbarians.  Deprived  of  all  sustenance  and  famine  staring 
them  in  the  face,  they  confidently  look  up  to  their  country  for 
support,  during  the  ensuing  inclement  season,  inasmuch,  as 


588  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

they  have  never  been  renumerated,  and  have  sacrificed  their 
all  in  her  service;  humbly  trusting  that  your  Excellency  will 
have  compassion  on  their  indigent  state,  and  grant  them  im- 
mediate support,  by  a  supply  of  provisions  and  ammunition 
and  that  your  Excellency  would  be  pleased  to  make  a  repre- 
sentation of  their  deplorable  state  to  the  President,  and  Con- 
gi'ess  of  the  United  States,  to  grant  them  such  relief  in  the 
premises  as  their  wisdom  may  deem  meet  and  as  in  duty 
bound  the  settlement  of  Erie  will  ever  pray. 

_.  John  Anderson 

J^^;^'''-^-^";H'^--M^:;y'----  :"■_;."  '■^'        Geo.  McDougall 

■V'"  v''^    -;.  ^'"^'v^.  '?;."-.;ii%.C  ■■""''■    ■■    .,r/:,,;         G.  GODFROY 

A  Copy  C.  A.  Norton,  Aid-de-Camp 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

Sackett's  Harbour  20th  October  1813 

Sjjj.  ^        .--.'t       ..^  '•:      -  ",   ..    ,,       ^       Har.  Pa.  91,  92 

The  enemy's  corps  before  fort  George  broke  up  their  can- 
tonments on  the  9th  and  marched  rapidly  for  Burlington  Bay 
which  he  reached  on  the  11th.  By  taking  this  route  he  may 
intend  to  reinforce  Proctor  on  the  French  River  or  Kingston 
at  the  head  of  the  St.  Lawrence.  He  was  apprised  of  the 
abandonment  of  Maiden  on  the  5th. 

We  are  perhaps  too  remote  to  profit  by  each  others  sugges- 
tions. But  it  does  not  appear  to  me  that  Sandwich  is  the 
point  at  which  Proctor  will  stop,  if  you  pursue  him.  From 
point  aux  Pins  on  lake  Erie  there  is  a  good  road  to  Chatham 
on  the  Thames.  The  Distance  not  more  than  twenty-four 
miles.  Were  this  gained  and  travelled  back  to  Sandwich  the 
enemy's  means  of  subsistence  might  be  destroyed  and  himself 
compelled  to  surrender.  But  of  the  practicability  of  this  you 
are  the  best  judge.     My  opinion  is  suggested  by  the  Map. 

The  first  Division  of  this  army  sailed  two  days  ago — the 
2nd  and  the  reserve  follow  today. 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
No.  96  ^  ^r 

^^  -  •    Head  Quarters,  Erie  Pa.  22nd  Oct.  1813 

c^.p  .  Har.  Pa.  211,  212 

Soon  after  my  letter  to  you  of  the  16th  Inst,  [see  above] 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        589 

was  written,  I  was  informed  that  a  special  messeng:er  with 
dispatches  from  you  had  left  Bass  Island  in  the  schooner  Chip- 
pewa which  had  been  driven  from  the  mouth  of  the  Detroit 
River  in  a  violent  storm  and  from  the  circumstance  of  a  quan- 
tity of  baggage  belonging  to  the  officers  which  was  known  to 
have  been  on  board  being  found  on  the  lake  Shore.  She  was 
believed  to  have  been  lost.  As  I  had  nearly  completed  the 
arangement  for  a  suspension  of  hostilities  with  the  Indians, 
although  I  had  no  information  as  to  the  movement  of  the  army 
on  Lake  Ontario,  I  determined  to  embark  Genl.  McArthur's 
Brigade  and  the  batallion  of  U.  States  Riflemen  and  proceed 
with  them  down  the  lake  until  I  could  receive  some  certain 
information  of  the  movements  of  the  army  under  Genl.  Wil- 
kinson and  what  was  expected  from  me.  I  arrived  here  this 
morning  with  Commodor  Perry  in  the  ariel  having  left  the 
remainder  of  the  fleet  at  Bass  Island,  it  is  probable  they  will 
be  here  this  evening  when  we  shall  immediately  proceed  to 
Bujffaloe.  I  have  learnt  that  the  Chippewa  was  not  lost  as 
was  supposed  at  the  upper  end  of  the  Lake  but  is  on  shore 
near  to  Buffaloe  where  the  unfortunate  messenger  is  said  to 
have  perished  in  endeavoring  to  reach  the  shore. 
I  have  not  above  eleven  hundred  men  with  me. 

,,  I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  gi-eat  respect 

:,,      /  Sir  Your  Humble  Servant 

-;  I'^l^  X :\:;.:  ;  -  v^L    :  .       William  Henry  Harrison 

:''\  Harrison  TO  Secretary  OF  War 
No.  97  ^.  • 

.^  ,.;  ;;        Head  Quarters  Buffaloe,  N.  Y.  Oct.  24th  1813 

.,  ^  .,  Ha/r.  Pa.  213,  21i 

Sir:         '""'■    '^"■''' -"■---  '^-- 

I  have  this  moment  landed  at  this  place,  from  on  board  of 
the  Schooner  Ariel  which  is  one  of  the  several  vessels,  with 
which  I  left  Detroit,  having  on  board  the  greater  part  of  Mc- 
Arthur's Brigade  and  the  detachment  of  the  U.  States  Rifle 
Regiment  under  Col.  [Thomas]  Smith.  The  other  vessels  are 
all  I  believe  in  sight  and  will  be  up  in  a  short  time.  The  ag- 
gregate number  of  Troops  with  me  is  about  thirteen  hundred 
but  not  more  than  one  thousand  iit  for  duty.  Before  this 
reaches  you,  you  will  no  doubt  be  informed  of  the  loss  of  your 
Messenger  Capt.  Brown,  with  the  dispatches  that  were  en- 


590  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

trusted  with  him.  Not  having  received  your  directions  and 
being  entirely  ignorant  of  the  state  of  our  mihtary  operations 
in  this  quarter,  I  was  much  at  a  loss  to  know  how  to  proceed 
but  believing  that  Genl.  Cass  with  his  Brigade  would  be  able 
to  secure  Detroit  and  our  adjacent  Conquests,  after  having 
concluded  an  armistice  with  the  greater  part  of  the  Hostile 
Tribes,  I  concluded  that  I  could  not  do  better  than  to  move 
down  the  Lake  with  the  remaining  part  of  the  Troops.  A 
part  of  McArthur's  brigade  is  still  at  the  Bass  Islands  where 
they  were  left  for  the  want  of  the  means  of  conveyance,  and  a 
considerable  portion  of  their  baggage  was  also  left  from  the 
same  cause.  Means  have  however  been  taken  to  collect  and 
bring  them  on. 

I  shall  move  down  the  Troops  immediately  to  Fort  George 
where  I  shall  await  your  orders  unless  an  opportunity  should 
previously  occur  of  striking  at  the  enemy  the  information  I 
have  received  here  of  the  situation  and  movements  of  the 
enemy  on  the  Head  of  the  Lake  Ontario  is  vague  and  contra- 
dictory. I  propose  to  send  off  my  adjutant  General  Col.  [Ed- 
mund P.]  Gaines  to  see  you  in  the  morning,  if  his  state  of 
health  will  allow  it. 

Presuming  that  my  official  dispatches  from.  Detroit  via 
Washington  must  have  reached  you,  I  scarcely  need  add  that 
on  the  5th  Instant,  I  was  fortunate  enough  to  overtake  Genl. 
Proctor  and  after  a  short  action  to  capture  upwards  of  Six 
hundred  of  his  regulars  and  to  defeat  and  disperse  his  Indian 
force. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  Respect 
Sir  Your  Humble  Servant. 
William  Henry  Harrison 
Honble  John  Armstrong  Esq. 

P.  S.  I  have  promised  the  bearer  that  you  will  reward  him  in 
proportion  to  the  exertion  he  makes  to  deliver  you  this.  It 
is  now  2  o'clock  P.  M.  W.  H.  H. 

Harrison  TO  Gen.  Vincent 
Head-Quarters  Fort  George  3rd  Nov.  1813 

,  „  ,.    ,    ^  Ha/r.  Pa.  218-223 

sir:  ■-.^^.»-'t..„,....te::.fy 

Lieutenant  LeBreton,  an  officer  in  your  service,  arrived  at 
Detroit  on  the  15th  Ultimo,  bearing  a  flag  and  a  letter  to  me 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        591 

from  General  Proctor,  requesting  humane  treatment  for  the 
prisoners  in  my  possession  and  the  restoration  of  private 
property  and  papers.  This  letter  was  directed  to  me  at  the 
Moravian  Towns  and  as  the  subject  was  not  of  the  importance 
to  ♦  authorize  the  Lieutenant  pursuing  me  to  Detroit,  I  was 
somewhat  surprised  at  his  doing  so.  It  did  not  appear  proper 
to  permit  him  to  return  in  that  way  and  as  I  was  upon  the 
point  of  setting  out  for  this  frontier  by  water,  I  conceived 
that  that  mode  of  conveyance  would  be  fully  as  agreable  to 
him  and  would  enable  him  to  meet  General  Proctor  as  expedi- 
tiously as  by  the  land  route.  I  regret  that  badness  of  the 
weather  and  other  causes  which  he  will  explain  has  detained 
him  until  this  time. 

Understanding  that  you  are  the  senior  officer  I  have  deter- 
mined to  address  my  answer  to  you.  With  respect  to  the 
subject  of  General  Proctor's  letter,  those  which  I  have  the 
honor  to  enclose  you  from  the  British  officers,  who  were  taken 
on  the  5th  ultimo  to  their  friends  and  the  reports  of  Lt.  Le- 
Breton  will  satisfy  you,  that  no  indulgence  which  humanity 
could  claim  in  their  favor  or  the  usages  of  War  sanction  has 
been  withheld.  The  disposition  of  the  property  taken  on  the 
field  of  action  or  near  it,  was  left  to  the  commanding  officer 
at  Detroit.  The  instructions  given  to  this  gentleman  and  the 
well  known  integrity  and  generosity  of  his  character  will  in- 
sure to  the  claimants  the  utmost  justice  and  liberality  in  his 
decisions.  In  making  this  statement,  I  wish  it  however  to  be 
distinctly  understood  that  my  conduct  with  regard  to  the  pris- 
oners and  the  property  taken  has  been  dictated  solely  by  mo- 
tives of  humanity  and  not  by  a  belief  that  it  could  be  claimed 
upon  the  score  of  reciprocity  of  treatment  towards  the  Amer- 
ican prisoners,  who  have  fallen  into  the  hands  of  General 
Proctor.  The  unhappy  persons  of  that  description  who  have 
excaped  from  the  tomahawks  of  the  savages  in  the  employ- 
ment of  the  British  Government,  under  the  immediate  orders 
of  that  Officer,  have  suffered  all  the  indignities  and  depriva- 
tions which  human  nature  is  capable  of  supporting.  There  is 
no  single  instance  that  I  have  heard  of  in  which  the  property 
of  the  Officers  has  been  respected.  But  I  am  far  from  believ- 
ing that  the  conduct  of  General  Proctor  has  been  thought  an 
example  worthy  imitation  by  the  greater  part  of  the  British 
officers  and  in  the  Character  of  General  Vincent  I  have  a 
pledge  that  he  will  unite  his  exertions  with  mine  to  soften 


592  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

as  much  as  possible  the  fate  of  those  whom  the  fortune  of 
War  may  reciprocally  place  in  our  power. 

But  Sir,  there  is  another  subject  upon  which  I  wish  an  ex- 
plicit declaration.  Will  the  Indians  who  still  adhere  to  the 
cause  of  his  Brittanic  Majesty  be  suffered  to  continue  that 
horrible  species  of  warfare  which  they  have  heretofore  prac- 
tised against  our  Troops  and  those  still  more  horrible  depre- 
dations upon  the  peaceble  inhabitants  of  our  frontiers?  I 
have  sufficient  evidence  to  show  that  the  latter  have  not  al- 
ways been  perpetrated  by  small  parties  of  vagrant  Indians 
acting  at  a  distance  from  the  British  army.  Some  of  the  most 
atrocious  instances  having  occurred  under  the  very  eyes  of 
the  British  Commander  and  the  Head  of  the  Indian  Depart- 
ment. I  shall  pass  by  the  tragedy  of  the  River  Raisin  and 
that  equally  well  known  which  was  enacted  at  the  Miami  River 
after  the  defeat  of  Col.  [William]  Dudley  and  select  three 
other  instances  of  savage  barbarity  committed  under  the  au- 
spices of  General  Proctor. 

In  the  beginning  of  June  last  a  small  party  of  Indians  con- 
ducted by  an  Ottawa  chief,  who  I  believe  is  now  with  the 
British  Army  under  your  command,  left  Maiden  in  bark 
canoes  in  which  they  coasted  lake  Erie  to  the  mouth  of  Por- 
tage river,  the  canoes  were  taken  across  the  portage  to  San- 
dusky bay,  across  which,  the  party  proceeded  to  the  mouth  of 
Cold  Creek  and  from  thence  by  land  to  the  settlements  upon 
that  creek  where  they  captured  three  families  consisting  of 
one  man  and  twelve  women  and  children.  After  taking  the 
prisoners  some  distance,  one  of  the  women  was  discovered  to 
be  unable  to  keep  up  with  them  in  consequence  of  her  ad- 
vanced state  of  pregnancy.  She  was  immediately  toma- 
hawked, stripped  naked,  her  womb  ripped  open  and  the  child 
taken  out.  Three  or  four  of  the  children  were  successively 
butchered  as  they  discovered  their  inability  to  keep  up  with 
the  party.  Upon  the  arrival  of  the  Indians  at  Maiden,  two  or 
three  of  the  prisoners  were  ransomed  by  Col.  Elliott  and  the 
others  by  the  citizens  of  Detroit,  where  they  remained  until 
they  were  taken  off  by  their  friends  upon  the  capture  of  that 
place  by  our  army.  /  have  been  informed  that  the  savage 
Chief  received  from  Col.  Elliott  a  repremand  for  his  cnielty. 

On  the  29th  or  30th  of  the  same  month,  a  large  party  of 
Indians  were  sent  from  Maiden  on  a  War  Expedition  to  Lower 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        593 

Sandusky.  At  a  farm  house  near  to  that  place  they  murdered 
the  whole  family  consisting  of  a  man,  his  wife  son  and  daugh- 
ter. 

During  the  last  attack  upon  Fort  Meigs  by  General  Proctor 
a  party,  headed  by  a  Seneca,  (an  intimate  friend  of  Tecum- 
seh's)  was  sent  to  endeavor  to  detach  from  our  interest  the 
savages  of  Wapokonata.  In  their  way  hither  they  murdered 
several  men  and  one  woman  who  was  working  in  her  corn- 
field. 

I  have  selected.  Sir,  the  above  from  a  long  list  of  similar  in- 
stances of  barbarity  which  the  history  of  the  last  15  months 
could  furnish  because  they  were  perpetrated  if  not  in  view  of 
the  British  commander  and  by  parties  v/ho  came  immediately 
from  his  company  and  returned  to  it.  Who  ever  received  their 
daily  support  from  the  King's  Stores  and  who  in  fact  (as  the 
documents  in  my  possession  show)  formed  part  of  his  army. 
To  retaliate  these  upon  the  subjects  of  the  King  would  have 
been  justifiable  by  the  Laws  of  War  and  by  the  usages  of  the 
most  civilized  nations.  The  tide  of  fortune  has  changed  in 
our  favour  and  an  extensive  and  flourishing  province  opened 
to  our  army.  Nor  have  instruments  of  vengence  been  want- 
ing. The  savages  who  have  sued  to  us  for  mercy  would  gladly 
have  shown  their  claims  to  it  by  reacting  upon  the  Thames, 
the  bloody  scenes  of  Sandusky  and  Cold  Creek,  A  single  sign 
of  approbation  would  have  been  sufficient  to  pour  upon  the 
subjects  of  the  King  their  whole  fury.  The  future  conduct  of 
the  British  officers  will  determine  the  correctness  of  mine  in 
withholding  it.  If  the  savages  should  be  again  let  loose  upon 
our  settlements  I  shall  with  justice  be  accused  of  having  sac- 
rificed the  interest  and  honour  of  my  country  and  the  lives 
of  my  fellow  citizens  to  feeling  of  false  and  mistaken  Human- 
ity. You  are  a  soldier  Sir,  and  as  I  sincerely  believe  possess 
all  those  honorable  sentiments  which  ought  always  to  be  found 
in  men  who  follow  the  profession  of  arms.  Use  then  I  pray 
you  your  authority  and  influence  to  stop  that  dreadful  efl"usion 
of  innocent  blood  which  proceeds  from  the  employment  of 
those  savage  monsters  whose  aide  (as  must  now  be  discov- 
ered) is  so  little  to  be  depended  upon  when  it  is  most  wanted 
and  which  can  have  so  trifling  an  efl;ect  upon  the  issue  of  the 
War.  The  effect  of  their  barbarity  will  not  be  confined  to 
the  present  generation.    Ages  yet  to  come  will  feel  the  eff"ect 


594  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

of  the  deep-rooted  hatred  and  enmity  which  they  must  pro- 
duce between  the  two  Nations.  I  deprecate  most  sincerely 
the  dreadful  alternative  which  will  be  offered  to  me  should 
they  be  continued,  but  I  do  most  solemly  declare  that  if  the 
Indians  that  remain  under  the  influence  of  the  British  Govern- 
ment are  suffered  to  commit  any  depredations  upon  the  citi- 
zen within  the  district  that  is  committed  to  my  protection,  I 
will  remove  the  restrictions  which  have  been  imposed  upon 
those  who  offered  their  sei-vices  to  the  United  States  and  di- 
rect them  to  carry  on  the  war  in  their  own  way.  I  have  never 
heard  a  single  excuse  for  the  employment  of  the  Savages  by 
your  Government  unless  we  can  credit  the  stoiy  of  some  Brit- 
ish Officer  having  dared  to  assert  that  "as  we  employed  the 
Kentuckians  you  had  a  right  to  make  use  of  the  Indians". 
If  such  injurious  sentiments  have  really  prevailed  to  the  preju- 
dice of  a  brave,  well  informed  and  virtuous  people,  it  will  be 
removed  by  the  representations  of  your  officers,  who  were 
lately  taken  upon  the  River  Thames.  They  will  inform  you 
Sir,  that  so  far  from  offering  any  violence  to  the  persons  of 
their  prisoners,  "these  Savages"  would  not  peiTnit  a  word  to 
escape  them,  which  was  calculated  to  wound  or  insult  their 
feelings,  and  this  too,  with  the  sufferings  of  their  friends  and 
relatives  at  the  River  Raisin  and  Miami  fresh  upon  their  re- 
collection. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir,  your  very  Humble  Servant 

Signed    William  Henry  Harrison 
Maj.  Gen.  Vincent  Commanding  British  Forces 
Burlington  Heights 

P.  S.  I  pledge  myself  for  the  truth  of  the  above  in  relation 
to  the  murders  committed  by  the  Indians. 

W.  H.  H. 

;•  .  Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

BoONSViLLE  3d  Nov.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  93,  9U 

Dear  General 

I  have  fortunately  met  Colonel  [E.  P.]  Gaines  on  the  way 
to  his  Regt.  The  Deputy  Paymaster  should  have  orders  to 
attend  to  the  Brigade  you  have  brought  with  you.  Capt. 
[Robert]  Butler  will  act  as  your  asst.  adjutant  general  and 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        595 

shall  receive  an  appointment  as  such.  The  officers  of  the 
several  corps  composing  your  Division,  (as  well  those  at  fort 
George  as  General  Cass's  Brigade)  not  indispensable  to  the 
command  of  the  troops  now  in  the  field  should  be  immediately 
dispatched  on  the  recruiting  service.  I  need  not  invite  your 
attention  to  a  subject  so  important  to  the  early  and  successful 
opening  of  the  next  campaign  and  to  the  extent  and  character 
of  your  particular  command.  Will  the  whole  of  Cass's  brigade 
be  wanted  to  the  Westward  ?  In  the  event  of  a  peace  with  the 
savages  a  less  force  would  be  sufficient  and  to  hasten  and  se- 
cure this  event,  the  present  moment  and  present  impression 
must  be  seized.  Of  the  warriors  sueing  for  peace  one  or  more 
should  be  sent  by  the  nearest  route  and  by  the  most  expedi- 
tious mode  to  the  Creek  nation.  The  story  of  their  defeat 
by  you  and  subsequent  abandonment  by  the  British  communi- 
cated by  themselves  would  probably  have  a  decisive  effect  on 
their  red  brethren  of  the  South  and  save  us  the  trouble  and 
expense  of  beating  them  into  a  sense  of  their  own  interest. 
When  I  wrote  to  you  from  Wilna  it  was  doubtful  whether  our 
attack  would  be  made  directly  upon  Kingston  or  upon  Mon- 
treal. Reasons  exist  for  prefering  the  latter  course  and  have 
probably  determined  General  Wilkinson  to  go  down  the  St. 
Lawrence.  In  this  case  the  enemy  will  have  at  Kingston,  be- 
sides his  fleet,  a  garrison  of  12  or  1400  men.  Had  we  not  a 
corps  in  the  neighborhood  these  might  do  mischief  and  even 
render  insecure  the  winter  station  of  our  fleet.  To  prevent 
this  (and  when  the  frost  has  bridged  the  St.  Lawrence  to  do 
more)  it  is  deemed  advisable  to  draw  together  at  Sackett's 
Harbour  a  considerable  military  force.  There  are  now  at  that 
post  between  four  and  five  hundred  men  of  all  descriptions — 
sick,  convalescent  and  effective.  Colonel  [Winfield]  Scot's 
detachment  (about  700)  are  on  their  march  thither,  and  it 
is  barely  possible  that  Colonel  [Thomas  Mann]  Randolph's 
(not  arriving  in  time  to  move  with  the  army)  may  be  there 
also.  This  does  not  exceed  350.  McArthur's  Brigade  added 
to  these  will  make  a  force  entirely  competent  to  our  objects. 
To  bring  this  Brigade  down  the  Lake  you  must  have  the  aid 
of  the  fleet  which  will  be  readily  given  by  Commodore  [Isaac] 
Chauncey.  On  this  point  I  shall  write  to  him  and  suggest 
a  communication  with  you  in  relation  to  it.  This  new  dispo- 
sition will  render  necessary  the  employment  of  so  many  of 


596  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

the  militia  and  volunteers  now  in  service  under  General 
[George]  McClure  as  you  may  deem  competent  to  the  safe 
keeping  of  Forts  George  and  Niagara  and  their  dependencies. 
It  is  not  intended  by  these  instructions  to  prevent  either  you 
or  General  JVTcArthur  from  visiting  your  families  or  from  go- 
ing directly  to  them,  if  you  so  desire,  from  Fort  George.  In 
this  case  the  command  will  devolve  on  Colonel  [Alexander] 
Smith.  To  Genl.  McArthur  I  would  however  barely  suggest 
that  I  shall  on  my  arrival  at  Albany  institute  a  Court  Martial 
for  the  trial  of  Hull — the  court  to  sit  at  that  place — and  that 
in  this  event,  it  might  be  more  convenient  for  the  General  to 
be  at  Sackett's  Harbour.  By  the  way  this  suggests  also  the 
necessity  of  immediately  relieving  General  Cass  (whose  pres- 
ence as  a  witness  will  be  indispensable)  and  making  such  dis- 
positions with  regard  to  Majors  [David]  Tremble,  [Thomas 
S.]  Jessup  and  etc.  as  will  best  and  most  easily  combine  the 
public  object  with  their  personal  convenience. 

P.  S.  For  the  better  accommodation  of  the  troops  it  may 
be  well  to  leave  500  of  them  at  Oswego.  They  will  there  find 
good  Barracks  for  that  number  and  may  be  brought  to  Sack- 
ett's Harbour  in  a  single  day.  The  contractor  ought  to  be 
apprised  of  the  arrangement. 
Major  General  Harrison  ""/£?' 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Headquarters,  Newark  8th  Nov.  1813 

"';■;■:>-.*'.-:■:  "'.•■-i?;-iv.';.\::.:'  -'■.■■;-.     ,    :>  •'^.\:;,       Har.  Pa.  215-217 

Sir: 

I  had  last  evening  the  Honor  to  receive  your  favor  of  the 
30th  ultimo.  The  enemy  are  still  at  the  Head  of  Burlington 
Bay  but  my  utmost  exertion  to  effect  it,  have  not  been  suf- 
ficient to  obtain  such  information  as  I  can  rely  upon,  in  rela- 
tion to  their  number  or  intentions.  The  necessity  of  driving 
them  from  thence  was  so  apparent  that  I  dispatched  orders 
from  Buffaloe  on  the  28th  Ult.  to  General  Cass  to  join  me  im- 
mediately with  his  Brigade  and  to  General  [John]  Gano  of 
the  Ohio  Militia  to  take  the  command  at  Detroit.  Unluckily 
the  vessel  which  took  the  order,  was  driven  back  and  forced 
on  shore  at  Buffaloe  with  three  others.  The  dispatch  to  Gen- 
eral Cass  and  another  to  Capt,  [Jesse  D.]  Elliott,  who  now 
commands  the  vessels  on  Lake  Erie  were  forwarded  by  land 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        597 

to  Erie.  The  Captain  has  dedined  the  employment  of  any  of 
his  vessels  but  the  five  Gun  boats  and  a  schooner,  for  the 
transportation  of  the  troops.  Of  these,  one  is  on  shore  at 
Buffaloe  and  two  are  lying  in  the  Head  of  Niagara  River.  As 
from  these  circumstances  I  could  not  calculate  upon  the  ar- 
rival of  Gen  Cass  time  enough  to  assist  in  the  operation 
against  Burlington,  I  have  countermanded  the  order  for  his 
coming  down.  General  [George]  McClure  having  informed 
me  that  he  had  authority  to  call  for  Militia  from  the  neigh- 
ouring  counties  of  New  York,  I  have  directed  him  to  call  out 
one  thousand  and  I  have  employed  Gen.  [Peter  Buel]  Porter 
and  Col.  Chapin  to  raise  Volunteers,  the  whole  to  serve  for  one 
month  after  their  arrival  here.  I  have  the  honor  to  enclose 
you,  returns  of  the  regular  troops  and  of  General  McClure's 
command.  As  the  enemy  must  have  at  least  one  thousand 
Indians,  you  will,  I  am  persuaded,  agree  with  me  as  to  the 
necessity  of  calling  out  an  additional  Militia  force.  It  is  much 
to  be  regretted  that  Col.  [Winfield]  Scott  did  not  remain  here 
with  his  command.  With  those  I  should  not  have  hesitated  to 
have  advanced  upon  General  Vincent.  I  still  hope  to  be  able  to 
effect  his  removal.  I  shall  have  no  doubt  of  it,  if  I  can  infuse 
into  the  New  York  Militia,  the  spirit  that  animates  those  from 
Kentucky.  Every  exertion  is  made  to  restore  the  health  of 
the  regular  Soldiers  but  notwithstanding  they  are  in  good 
quarters  and  are  well  provided  for,  the  number  of  sick  has 
increased  almost  daily.  A  very  considerable  number  are  how- 
ever convalescent. 

The  expedition  to  the  Head  of  the  Lake  would  be  necessary 
to  destroy  the  subsistence  upon  the  road  leading  to  the  Thames 
to  prevent  the  enemy  from  making  any  attempts  to  regain 
the  upper  province  in  that  direction,  in  the  event  of  their 
keeping  possession  of  York.  1  found  at  Fort  Niagara  a  suf- 
ficiency of  many  articles  of  clothing  for  my  men,  but  they  are 
in  great  want  of  Woollen  overalls,  some  blankets,  and  stock- 
ings will  be  wanted  also.  May  I  hope  that  some  of  these  ar- 
ticles will  be  forwarded  immediately. 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  received 
from  General  Proctor  [see  Oct.  8  above]  by  a  flag  before  I 
left  Detroit  together  with  my  answer  directed  to  General  Vin- 
cent. [Nov.  3  above]  I  thought  the  opportunity  a  good  one,  to 
bring  forward  the  subject  of  Indian  depredations. 


598  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Since  I  began  this  letter,  a  decent,  respectable  looking  young 
man  has  arrived,  who  says  he  is  a  Sergeant  in  the  Glengary 
Regiment  and  deserted  in  consequence  of  his  having  been  dis- 
appointed of  promised  promotion.  I  enclose  you  a  copy  of  his 
examination  taken  before  General's  IMcArthur  and  IMcClure 
[following] .  The  number  of  Indians  is  certainly  exaggerated, 
but  I  do  not  believe  that  the  amount  of  Regulars  is  much  under 
what  he  makes  them.  As  you  will  be  possessed  of  all  the  in- 
formation that  I  have  upon  the  subject,  I  should  like  to  re- 
ceive your  directions.  Shall  I  advance  upon  the  enemy  if  I 
can  obtain  one  thousand  additional  jMilitia  after  leaving  three 
hundred  men  in  each  of  the  Garrisons  I  shall  then  be  enabled 
to  march  something  upwards  of  two  thousand. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  High  Re- 
'  -  ,  spect  and  Consideration 

.''•       I       >    -        .  Sir  Your  Humble  Servant 

''''''■  William  Henry  Harrison 

Honble.  John  Armstrong  Esq.  Secretary  of  War 

Examination  of  Charles  Johnston,  A  Deserter  from  the 
British  Army 

Har.  Pa.  225 

He  belonged  to  the  Glengary  Regiment,  left  Burlington  on 
the  7th  at  9  o'clock  acting  as  Assistant  Provost  martial  that 
he  left  there,  the  whole  of  the  Royal  Scotch  Regiment  the 
v/hole  of  the  100th,  the  light  company  of  the  8th  and  the  re- 
maining part  of  the  41st  about  150  or  60  Dragoons.  The  light 
company  of  the  Scotch  Royals  arrived  a  few  days  before  he 
left  Burlington.  He  believed  that  the  whole  of  the  forces 
amounted  to  2000  regulars  and  2000  Indians.  They  have  a 
very  large  supply  of  provisions  flour  and  pickled  pork — part 
of  which,  they  have  been  sending  to  York  that  a  large  quan- 
tity of  presents  vvero  distributed  amongst  the  Indians  on  Fri- 
day last.  That  he  then  saw  them  together  and  believes  that 
there  were  2000  warriors,  that  the  Indians  who  escaped  from 
the  Battle  of  the  Thames  are  all  there,  that  the  Prophet  had 
appointed  a  succesor  to  his  Brother  Tecumseh  who  was  killed 
in  said  battle. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        599 

.,  .  ,-     Gen.  Vincent  TO  Harrison 

Head  Quarters  Burlington  Heights  10th  November,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  230-232 

Sir: 

Lieut.  LeBreton  having  deHvered  your  letter  of  the  3rd 
inst.  [see  above]  I  have  directed  Capt.  IMerritt  of  the  Provin- 
cial Dragoons  to  proceed  with  a  Flag  to  Fort  George  as  the 
Bearer  of  this  acknowledgement  of  your  obliging  communica- 
tion. 

The  account  given  of  the  British  officers  whom  the  fortune 
of  War  has  lately  placed  at  the  disposal  of  the  United  States, 
is  such  as  cannot  fail  affording  very  consoling  reflections  to 
this  army  and  their  anxious  friends. 

Tho  you  must  be  sensible  that  there  are  several  points  in 
your  letter  respecting  which  it  is  wholly  beyond  my  power  to 
afford  you  the  satisfaction  of  an  explicit,  declaration,  yet  be 
assured  Sir  I  shall  never  feel  the  smallest  degree  of  hesitation 
in  joining  you  in  any  pledge,  that  it  \\ill  ever  be  my  anxious 
wish  and  endeavour  to  alleviate  as  much  as  possible  the  fate 
of  those  who  may  fall  into  my  power  by  the  chances  of  war. 

Believe  me  Sir,  I  deprecate  as  strongly  as  yourself  the  per- 
petration of  acts  of  cruelty  committed  under  any  pretext,  and 
I  shall  lament  equally  with  yourself  that  any  state  of  things 
should  produce  them.  No  efforts  of  mine  will  be  ever  wanting 
to  diminish  the  evils  of  a  state  of  Avarfare,  as  far  as  may  be 
consistent  with  the  duties  which  are  due  to  my  King  and 
Country. 

The  Indian  when  acting  in  conjunction  with  the  Troops  un- 
der my  command,  has  been  invariabley  exhorted  to  mercy, 
and  have  never  been  deaf  to  my  anxious  entreaties  on  this  in- 
teresting subject. 

I  shall  not  fail  to  transmit  the  original  of  your  letter  to  the 
Lower  Province  for  the  consideration  of  His  Excellency  the 
Commander  of  the  Forces.  I  feel  particularly  anxious  to  be 
made  acquainted  with  your  instructions  relative  to  the  dis- 
posal of  the  gallent  and  truly  unfortunate  Captain  Barclay, 
whose  wounds  I  lament  to  hear  arc  such  as  to  preclude  all 
hope  of  his  being  ever  again  able  to  resume  the  honourable 
duties  of  his  station.  Under  these  circumstances  I  am  in- 
duced to  rely  on  your  liberality  and  generous  interferance  to 


600  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

obtain  a  release  or  parole  that  he  may  be  allowed  the  indulg- 
ence of  immediately  proceeding  to  the  Lower  Province. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be 

your  very  Obeidient  Servant 
.   ■  ..        John  Vincent  il/.  GenemZ 

His  Excellency  Major  Gen.  Harrison 
A  true  Copy    John  O'Fallon  A.  D.  C. 


(No.  99) 


Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

Head  Quarters,  Newark  11th  Nov.  1813 

Q,  Har.  Pa.  225-22S 

I  had  the  honor  to  receive  your  letter  of  the  3d  inst.  the  day 
before  yesterday,  [see  above] 

I  fear  there  has  been  some  mistake  in  relation  to  the  period 
of  service  for  which  the  Militia  under  General  [George]  Mc- 
Clure  was  called  out.  He  says  that  it  was  for  three  months 
only  and  that  the  term  of  the  whole  will  expire  in  three  or  four 
weeks.  If  that  is  the  case  and  the  Regular  Troops  are  sent  off 
Fort  George  will  be  left  without  defence  unless  a  new  draft  is 
made  immediately.  General  McClure  has  called  for  1000  men 
from  the  two  adjoining  counties  but  they  were  called  for  one 
month  only.  I  suppose  however  that  as  they  are  drafted  men, 
the  authority  of  the  Governor  would  be  sufficient  to  oblige 
them  to  stay.  But  the  great  difficulty  will  be  in  getting  them 
to  remain  on  this  side  or  even  to  come  over  at  all,  when  they 
discover  that  they  are  to  be  retained  for  three  months.  I  give 
you  this  information,  supposing  that  it  might  produce  a  coun- 
termand of  the  order  for  sending  McArthur's  brigade  belov/. 
I  should  not  think  it  safe,  to  bring  Cass's  brigade  from  De- 
troit at  present.  It  was  my  intention,  if  my  first  order  for 
their  coming  had  been  successful,  to  have  sent  them  back 
from  Long  point  after  having  visited  Burligton.  [George] 
Dixon  passed  up  from  York  some  time  since,  with  a  very  large 
quantity  of  goods.  It  is  possible  that  he  may  be  able  to  in- 
duce the  Potawatomes,  Chippewas  and  Ottawas  again  to  com- 
mence hostility.  I  am  however,  pretty  confident  that  with  a 
little  attention  and  address,  it  may  be  prevented  and  perfect 
tranquility  restored  to  the  Western  Country,  which  would  en- 
able the  Government  to  use  the  whole  of  the  resources  of  that 
country  in  the  lower  part  of  Canada.     Within  a  few  months 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        601 

after  security  is  given  to  the  frontiers,  our  Treasury  will  re- 
ceive the  whole  of  the  large  sums  which  have  been  expended 
in  that  District  back  again  for  lands.  There  is  much  delicacy 
and  some  dificulty  in  determining  what  course  is  to  be  taken 
with  the  hostile  Indians.  Unless  they  are  treated  with  some 
forbearance  at  first,  they  will  conceive  their  situation  so  bad 
as  to  induce  them  to  adopt  some  desperate  course. 

Before  I  received  your  letter  I  was  well  aware  of  the  neces- 
sity of  my  returning  to  the  Westward  or  having  some  person 
there,  vested  with  general  powers  for  the  command  of  the 
District.  It  requires  immediate  attention.  In  my  former  let- 
ters I  have  mentioned  the  instructions  given  to  the  command- 
ants upon  the  frontiers,  to  supply  them  with  small  quantities 
of  provisions  and  ammunition.  Unless  this  is  done,  they  will 
starve  or  break  upon  the  frontiers  to  obtain  supplies.  I  rec- 
ommend that  a  supply  of  goods  be  immediately  sent  to  the 
Factor  at  Fort  Wayne.  It  would  be  extremely  gratifying  to 
me  and  I  believe  promotive  of  the  Public  Interest  if  I  could 
have  an  interview  with  you.  Unless  I  receive  before  I  leave 
this  some  unexpected  information  from  the  West  (or  orders 
to  the  contrary) ,  it  is  probable  that  I  may  take  Washington 
in  my  route.  I  am  accustomed  to  travel  with  so  much  expedi- 
tion that  it  would  make  no  great  difference  in  the  time  of  my 
arriving  in  my  district. 

To  my  great  disappointment  and  mortification,  I  find  that 
there  are  but  400  Cartouch  boxes  to  be  procured  for  the  mili- 
tia that  are  expected.  If  they  should  not  have  them  the  ex- 
pedition to  the  Head  of  the  Lake  cannot  take  place.  There 
are  neither  tents  nor  camp  kettles  and  I  fear  that  the  Militia 
of  this  frontier  will  not,  like  the  Kentuckians,  do  without 
them.  I  am  still  in  the  dark  as  to  the  intentions  of  the  Enemy 
at  the  Head  of  the  Lake.  I  believe  that  they  will  retire  to 
York,  but  so  strong  were  the  reports,  that  they  were  advanc- 
ing upon  us  yesterday  and  had  reached  the  40  miles  Creek 
(30  from  this)  that  I  changed  the  disposition  of  the  troops  to 
receive  an  attack. 

. ;         With  the  highest  consideration 
.  y       I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir 
your  Humble  Servant 
William  Henry  Harrison 
Hon.  John  Armstrong.  Esq.  Secretary  of  War 

41—22664 


602  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 
(No.  100) 

Headquarters  Newark  14th  Nov.  1813 

-  .A*r  'i    -.  -   .  Har.  Pa.  229 

Sir:  '  -   '     -  - 

I  understand  that  volunteers  are  commg  on  in  considerable 
numbers  to  join  me  from  the  neighboring  counties.  I  should 
have  no  doubt  of  giving  a  good  account  of  General  Vincent 
and  his  army  if  his  position  were  not  such  as  precludes  I  fear 
every  hope  of  reaching  him  in  any  other  way  than  by  regular 
approaches.  For  operations  of  that  kind  we  are  entirely  un- 
prepared. However,  I  will  go  up,  if  the  force  that  joins  me 
is  such  as  is  expected  and  will  do  the  best  I  can  to  prevent 
his  being  troublesome  in  future.  I  have  an  accurate  delinea- 
tion of  his  position,  and  if  I  mistake  not,  it  is  one  of  the 
strongest  in  America  calculated  either  for  defence  retreat  or 
to  receive  reinforcements  from  York.  Notwithstanding  the 
utmost  care  and  attention  both  of  the  sick  and  well,  my  ef- 
fective regular  force  daily  decreases.  I  shall  not  be  able  to 
march  more  than  six  hundred  rank  and  file. 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  General  Vincents 
answer  to  my  letter  to  him  of  the  3rd  instant,  [see  Nov.  10 
above] 

.    .      With  the  highest  consideration  and  regard 
.',     I  am  sir  your,  Humble  Servant. 
.,.;,=.     William  Henry  Harrison 
Hon.  John  Armstrong. 

P.  S.     Col.  Wilcox  just  informed  me  that  the  enemy  are  build- 
ing largely  at  York  and  have  a  considerable  force  there. 

-;•-      :.'V.,h:.,v..:..,^-v:..,.v:-   .       W.  H.  H. 

,•  .  -  ,        Harrison  to  Clarke 

Head  Quarters,  Newark  15th  Nov.  1813 

-       .    '  -  :      ,      -  Har,  Pa.  236,  227 

Dear  Sir  : 

Being  ordered  to  the  Westward  you  will  be  pleased  to  re- 
sume the  command,  which  you  exercised  previously  to  my 
arrival  on  this  frontier.  The  orders  which  you  have  hereto- 
fore receive  will  govern  you.  It  will  be  necessary  that  you 
keep  a  vigilant  eye  over  the  disaffected  part  of  the  inhabitants 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        603 

and  I  recommend  that  you  make  use  of  the  zeal,  activity  and 
local  knowledge  which  Col.  Wilcox  certainly  possesses  to  coun- 
teract the  machinations  of  our  enemy  and  assure  the  confi- 
dence of  our  friends  amongst  the  inhabitants.  It  will  how- 
ever, I  am  pursuaded,  be  your  wish  as  it  is  your  duty,  to  guard 
the  latter  as  much  as  possible  from  oppression. 

The  volunteers  which  were  lately  called  out,  will  be  re- 
tained as  long  as  you  consider  their  services  necessary.  The 
drafted  militia,  untill  further  orders  are  received  from  the 
Sect,  of  War.  There  can  be  little  doubt  of  its  being  the  in 
tention  of  the  enemy  to  send  the  greater  part  of  the  troops, 
which  they  have  at  Burlington  and  York  to  Kingston,  and  to 
make  York  the  right  of  their  line,  they  may  however  leave  a 
small  command  at  Burlington  and  these  may  be  so  securely 
posted  as  to  render  them  safe  from  any  desultory  expedition 
you  may  set  on  foot  but  it  is  desirable  to  have  any  supplies 
which  they  may  have  collected  at  the  Mills  in  the  neighbour- 
hood, destroyed,  and  should  the  success  below  be  not  such  as 
to  promise  possession  of  the  whole  of  the  upper  province,  the 
mills  may  be  destroyed. 

Capts.  [John]  Leonard  and  [James]  Reed  or  either  of  them 
are  appointed  to  muster  your  troops  when  and  where  you  may 
think  proper. 

In  closing  this  communication,  I  should  not  do  justice  to  my 
feelings,  if  I  were  not  to  acknowledge  the  zeal  and  talents  with 
which  you  have  managed  your  command.  Your  conduct  ap- 
pears to  me  to  have  been  extremely  judicious  and  proper 
throughout  and  your  troops  exhibit  a  State  of  improvement 
and  subordination  which  is  at  once  honorable  to  your  officers 
and  themselves. 

*  V'  ^«:^-:^ '^      I  am  very  sincerely  Your 
-"      ^  /  friend  and  Humble  Servant 

-•  -    William  Henry  Harrison 
Brig.  Gen.  W.  Clarke 

P.  S. 

With  regard  to  the  inhabitants  of  the  country  who  have 
been  taken  up  as  spies  or  for  other  causes,  I  have  been  in  a 
great  degree  governed  by  the  opinions  of  Col.  Wilcox.  I  rec- 
ommend the  same  course  to  you,  unless  you  should  discover 
that  it  leads  to  an  improper  result.  W.  H.  H. 


604  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

,  •  ■        McClure  to  Harrison 

_,,..,     "-[>'\  Fort  George,  November  15,  1813 

Cttj  .  Har.  Pa.  2^1 

The  subject  of  our  conversation  this  morning  has  occupied 
my  most  serious  reflections.  The  deadly  blow  heretofore  given 
to  the  patriotism  of  our  citizens  on  this  frontier,  have  pre- 
pared them  for  murmurs  and  complaints.  Those  who  are  now 
on  the  march  have  left  their  homes  and  their  business  under 
great  sacrifices  with  the  certainty  of  being  brought  into  ac- 
tion. The  last  address  which  I  issued  under  your  directions 
and  which  I  am  happy  to  find  has  met  your  approbation,  gives 
them  reason  for  indulging  the  expectation  of  service,  and  they 
are  anxious  to  drive  the  enemy  from  their  borders  forever. 
The  high  character  of  Gen.  Harrison,  combined  with  these  cir- 
cumstances, has  excited  strong  interest  in  the  public  mind  rel- 
ative to  our  operations. 

In  this  peculiar  situation  of  affairs,  I  feel  it  to  be  due  to  the 
gallant  volunteers  and  militia  who  are  assembled  and  collect- 
ing, and  to  my  own  reputation,  most  respectfully  to  solicit, 
that  if  it  is  not  incompatible  with  your  instructions  and  your 
better  judgment,  you  will  not  abandon  our  projected  expedi- 
tion against  Burlington  Heights.  Such  is  the  anxious  wish 
of  the  Militia  and  I  have  no  doubt  the  soldiers  under  your 
command  are  equally  if  not  more  desirous  of  the  employment. 

My  anxiety  on  the  subject,  I  trust  will  excuse  the  appear- 
ance of  any  disrespect  in  making  this  communication  which 
certainly  is  far  from  my  feelings.  My  confidence  in  the  valor, 
ability,  and  prudence  of  Gen.  Harrison,  will  dispose  me  most 
cheerfully  to  submit  to  any  arrangements  he  may  be  bound 
to  make,  however  great  may  be  my  disappointment  in  their 
result. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be.  Sir  Your  Humble  Servt. 

Major  General  Harrison  «^°-  McClbre 

.,  :,.,^  Harrison  to  McClure 

Head  Quarters,  Nenvark  Nov.  15,  1813 

DEAR  Sir:  '       ■  Har.  Pa.  23s,  21,0 

Your  letter  to  me  of  this  morning  has  been  received.     I  feel 

most  severely  the  weight  of  the  reasons  which  you  urge  for 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        605 

the  prosecution  of  the  intended  expedition  to  Burlington.  The 
disappointment  however,  of  the  brave  and  patriotic  men  who 
have  turned  out  under  the  expectation  of  serving  their  country 
effectually  in  the  field  at  this  inclement  season  is  the  most 
painful  circumstance  attending  it,  as  I  am  well  convinced  from 
the  information  received  this  morning  and  last  evening  that 
the  enemy  are  moving  as  fast  as  possible  from  the  Head  of 
the  Lake  to  Kingston,  which  has  been  left  with  a  very  small 
part  of  the  force  that  was  lately  there,  and  it  is  more  than 
probable  that  should  we  advance  in  force  the  enemy  having 
none  but  effective  men  at  Burlington  would  destroy  the  stores, 
which  they  have  remaining  there  and  retreat  too  rapidly  to  be 
overtaken.  These  are  considerations  however  which  would 
make  it  extremely  desirable  to  make  an  exhibition  of  force  in 
that  quarter.  But  the  orders  I  have  received  from  the  Sec- 
retary of  War  leaves  me  no  alternative. 

Comodore  Chauncy  is  extremely  pressing  that  the  troops 
should  immediately  embark,  declaring  that  the  navigation  at 
this  season  to  small  vessels  is  very  dangerous.  The  force  at 
Sackets  harbour  is  very  small,  less  by  one  Regiment  than  the 
Secretary  of  War  supposed  it  would  be  when  he  gave  me  the 
order  for  the  embarkation  of  the  Regular  Troops  that  are 
here.  The  troops  at  York  are  all  hastening  down  to  Kingston. 
Sackets  harbour  may  be  endangered  by  even  the  delay  of  a 
few  days  and  should  the  troops  that  are  here  not  get  down 
before  the  Lake  is  frozen,  our  fleet  may  be  destroyed  for  the 
want  of  their  aid.  I  cannot  therefore,  take  upon  myself  the 
responsibility  of  delaying  their  going  down  even  a  day. 

Will  you  be  so  obliging  at  the  proper  time  as  to  explain  the 
above  circumstances  to  the  Patriots  who  have  left  their  homes 
with  the  intention  of  assisting  me  to  drive  the  Enemy  far  from 
our  borders,  and  assure  them  that  I  shall  ever  recollect  with 
the  warmest  gratitude  the  partiality  which  they  have  been 
pleased  to  express  for  me  and  their  preference  of  serving  un- 
der my  Command. 

I  will  direct  payment  to  be  made  to  the  volunteers  for  ra- 
tions and  forage  in  coming  on. 

Accept  my  best  wishes  for  your  health 
.'  ..  ^  and  happiness  and  believe  me 

i  ^  v^.A  >-  sincerely  your  friend. 

., ,7  . .       V(  :      '    •  William  Henry  Harrison 


606  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Harrison  to  Secretary  op  War 
(No.  101) 

,    ,  Head  Quarters  Newark  IGth  Nov.  1813 

Har.  Pa.  23i 

Sir: 

Comodore  Chauncey  with  the  Fleet  arrived  here  yesterday 
morning  and  informed  me  that  he  was  ready  to  receive  the 
Troops  to  convey  them  down  the  Lake  and  that  the  season  was 
so  far  advanced  rendering  the  navigation  dangerous  to  the 
smaller  vessels,  that  it  was  desirable  they  should  be  embarked 
as  expeditiously  as  possible.  As  a  very  small  part  of  the  mili- 
tia and  Volunteers  had  arrived  and  the  situation  of  Sacketts 
Harbour  appearing  to  me  to  require  immediate  reinforcement 
I  did  not  think  proper  to  take  upon  myself  the  responsibility 
of  postponing  the  departure  of  the  Troops  for  the  Lower  part 
of  the  Lake  conformably  to  the  directions  contained  in  your 
letter  of  the  3rd  Instant.  The  information  I  received  yester- 
day from  two  respectable  citizens  that  were  taken  near  to  Fort 
Meigs  in  June  last  and  who  made  their  escape  in  an  open  boat 
from  Burlington  confirmes  me  in  the  propriety  of  sending 
them  off.  These  men  state  the  troops  were  hurrying  to  King- 
ston from  York  as  fast  as  possible.  The  regulars  going  dovv^n 
in  boats  and  Militia  bringing  the  latter  back. 

The  troops  are  now  all  embarked  and  are  under  the  com- 
mand of  Col.  Smith  who  is  an  officer  in  whose  capacity  and 
bravery  the  greatest  relyance  may  be  placed. 

I  shall  set  out  this  evening  for  the  seat  of  Government. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  the  highest 
\,'"^"  "'  consideration,  Sir,  Your  Humble  Servant. 

'■^  .  '     \'-  -         William  Henry  Harrison 

John  Armstrong  Esq  Sect  of  War 

^-f    ..:;::        -     .  McClure  to  Harrison 

Fort  George,  16th  November,  1813 

Har.  Pa.  235 

My  Dear  Sir  : 

I  cannot  suffer  you  to  depart  from  this  post  without  ex- 
pressing to  you  the  great  satisfaction  I  have  received  from 
our  intercourse  and  my  extreme  regret  that  its  continuance 
is  so  short.    You  carry  with  you.  Sir,  the  highest  esteem  and 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        607 

the  warmest  admiration  of  every  officer  and  soldier  under  my 
command  who  has  had  any  opportunity  of  forming  an  ac- 
quaintance with  you. 

Your  recommendations  will  meet  with  every  attention  and 
respect  in  my  power,  and  I  shall  only  regret  that  you  are  not 
here  yourself  to  execute  them. 

For  the  terms  of  approbation  which  you  have  been  pleased 
to  use  in  speaking  of  my  conduct,  I  can  tender  you  only  my 
thanks. 

With  the  warmest  wishes  for  your  health  and  prosperity 
and  that  of  your  officers  with  whom  I  have  had  the  pleasure 
of  an  acquaintance. 

I  remain  with  utmost  respect 
^"       ''-"   *    ^"L  "   ,,  ,      '  Your  friend  and  servant 

Geo.  McClure 
Major  Gen.  Harrison       ' 

Posey  Message  to  Assembly 

December  6,  1813 

,^..  _     -  ;  Western  Sun,  December  25,  1813 

"    '".'    "■    f^  Dillon,  History  of  Indiana,  527 

Gentlemen  of  the  Legislative  Council  and  of  the  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives: 

The  period  which  calls  you  in  your  legislative  capacity  hav- 
ing arrived,  it  is  with  pleasure  I  give  my  attendance  and  will 
cheerfully  cooperate  with  you  in  exerting  to  promote  the  pub- 
lic good  and  welfare  of  the  Territory. 

The  present  crisis  is  awful  and  big  with  great  events;  our 
land  and  nation  is  involved  in  the  common  calamity  of  war, 
but  we  are  under  the  protecting  care  of  the  beneficent  Being 
who  has,  on  a  former  occasion,  bro't  us  in  safety  through  an 
arduous  struggle,  and  placed  us  on  a  foundation  of  independ- 
ence, freedom,  and  happiness.  He  will  not  suffer  to  be  taken 
from  us  what  he  in  his  great  wisdom  has  tho't  proper  to  con- 
fer and  bless  us  with,  if  we  make  a  wise  and  virtuous  use  of 
his  good  gifts. 

In  the  present  contest  with  Great  Britain,  in  contending 
for  the  preservation  of  our  dearest  rights  it  would  be  im- 
proper to  omit  our  supplications  to  that  Almighty  Being,  who 
rules  over  the  universe,  who  presided  in  the  councils  of  na- 


608  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

tions,  and  whose  providential  aids  can  supply  every  human 
defect.  We  have  great  reason  to  be  thankful  to  him  for  the 
success  of  our  arms  by  land  and  water.  Altho'  our  affairs  at 
the  commencement  of  the  war  wore  a  gloomy  aspect,  thoy  have 
brightened  and  promise  a  certainty  of  success,  if  properly  di- 
rected and  conducted, — of  which  I  have  no  doubt,  as  the  Pres- 
ident and  heads  of  departments  of  the  general  government  are 
men  of  undoubted  talents,  patriotism,  and  experience,  and  who 
have  grown  old  in  the  service  of  their  country.  We  have 
reason  to  be  thankful  that  such  men  are  at  the  head  of  our 
affairs.  Our  army  and  navy  have  brought  to  view  officers  of 
the  gi^eatest  bravery,  patriotism,  sldll,  and  enterprise.  Our 
soldiers  and  seamen,  tho'  almost  undisciplined,  have  in  many 
instances,  fought  with  as  much  bravery  and  perseverance  as 
the  most  hardy  veterans.  If  there  is  so  great  a  promise  at  so 
early  a  period  of  the  war,  what  must  be  our  prospects  should 
the  war  continue?  Our  cause  is  just,  and  if  we  have  virtue 
and  constancy  what  is  there  to  cause  doubt  of  success?  It 
must  be  obvious  to  every  thinking  mind  that  we  were  forced 
into  the  war.  Every  measure  consistent  with  honor,  both  be- 
fore and  since  the  declaration  of  war,  has  been  tried  to  be 
upon  amicable  terms  with  our  enemy.  If  they  will  not  listen 
to  reciprocity,  and  be  at  peace  with  us,  where  is  the  man  who 
is  a  friend  to  his  countrj'-  that  will  not  give  a  helping  hand 
and  use  his  best  exertions  to  presence  and  maintain  inviolate 
the  just  rights  of  his  country?  It  is  to  be  hoped  there  is  none 
such. 

I  now  come  to  the  part  we  are  more  immediately  interested 
in.  Upper  Canada  is  nearly  or  altogether  in  possession  of  the 
armies  of  the  United  States.  This  is  a  happy  event  for  the 
peace  and  security  of  the  western  country.  We  partake  in  a 
very  essential  degi'ee  of  the  blessing.  The  communication 
being  cut  off  between  the  British  and  Indians,  will  ensure 
peace  with  the  latter ;  and  I  hope  and  trust  what  has  caused 
our  country  to  expend  so  much  blood  and  treasure  will  never 
be  resigned  or  relinquished.  It  is  essentially  necessary  that 
the  United  States  should  hold  possession  of  Upper  Canada  at 
least;  and  true  policy  would  dictate  to  our  government  to  get 
possession  (and  keep  it)  of  both  Upper  and  Lower  Canada — 
making  the  citizens  free  and  independent,  though  to  form  a 
part  of  the  Union.  I  could  wish,  and  am  fully  of  opinion,  that 
it  would  be  the  interest  of  the  United  States  if  the  whole 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        609 

of  the  British  possessions  or  dominions  in  North  America 
were  independent  of  Great  Britain. 

There  is  a  bill  before  Congress,  introduced  by  Mr.  [James] 
Kilbourn,  of  the  State  of  Ohio,  purporting  to  lay  off  a  district 
of  country  upon  our  northwestern  frontiers,  stretching  from 
the  Connecticut  Reserve  and  lake  Erie  to  the  jMississippi,  and 
giving  a  cei'tain  quantity  of  land  as  a  donation  to  all  who  may 
become  actual  residents.  Should  the  bill  pass  into  a  law  there 
can  be  very  little  doubt  of  the  speedy  settlement  of  the  dis- 
trict,— which,  together  with  Upper  Canada  in  our  possession, 
will  form  a  barrier  that  may  bid  defiance  to  any  Indian  hos- 
tilities on  any  of  our  frontiers  east  of  the  I\Iississippi,  and 
no  doubt  will  aiford  protection  to  the  Missouri  territory. 

I  will  now  call  to  your  attention  such  subjects  as  require 
the  deliberations  of  your  present  meeting.  ]\Iuch  depends  upon 
you,  gentlemen,  in  bringing  to  maturity  such  laws  as  will  have 
a  tendency  to  render  equal  justice  to  each  individual  of  the 
community,  and  promote  the  general  welfare  of  the  Territory. 
You,  who  reside  in  various  parts  of  the  Territoiy,  have  it  in 
your  power  to  understand  what  ^vHl  tend  to  its  general  and 
local  advantage. 

The  judiciary  system  would  require  a  revisal  and  amend- 
ment. The  militia  law  is  very  defective  and  requires  imme- 
diate attention.  It  is  necessary  to  have  good  roads  and  high- 
ways, in  as  many  directions  through  the  Territory  as  the  cir- 
cumstances and  situation  of  the  inhabitants  will  admit  of;  it 
would  contribute  very  much  to  promote  the  settlement  and 
improvement  of  the  Territory.  Attention  to  education  is 
highly  necessaiy;  there  is  an  appropriation  made  by  congress 
in  land,  for  the  purpose  of  establishing  public  schoools.  It 
comes  now  within  your  province  to  cany  into  operation  the 
design  of  the  appropriation.  The  situation  and  state' of  the 
treasury  is  a  necessary  subject  for  your  consideration ;  a  state- 
ment (marked  A)  [omitted]  of  the  disbursements  of  the  ap- 
propriation made  by  the  legislature  at  their  last  session,  con- 
stituting a  contingent  fund  subject  to  my  disposition,  is  here- 
with transmitted. 

All  the  necessary  documents  relative  to  the  situation  of  the 
territory  and  other  subjects  as  they  may  occur,  shall  be  com- 
municated from  time  to  time,  thro'  the  course  of  the  session. 

I  wish  you  a  pleasant  session,  recommending  harmony  and 
dispatch  of  business.  ^^^^,^3  p^^^^. 


610  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

,         ,  Harrison  on  the  IMilitia 

Toast  at  Philadelphia  Dec.  9,  1813 

Niks'  Register 

Gentlemen: 

Permit  me  to  offer  j^oii  a  volunteer  toast,  and  very  briefly 
to  state  the  motive  whicli  prompts  me  to  take  one  of  the  reg- 
ular toast  of  the  day  as  a  mean  of  communicating  my  opinion. 
Believing,  as  I  do,  that  a  sentiment  is  gaining  gi'ound  un- 
friendly to  republicanism  and  injurious  to  the  nation,  and 
knowing  from  my  own  experience,  that  the  sentiment  is  not 
well  founded,  I  will  give  you 

The  Militia  of  the  United  States.  They  possess  the  Ro- 
man spirit  and  when  our  government  shall  think  proper  to 
give  them  that  organization  and  discipline  of  which  they  are 
susceptible,  they  will  perform  deeds  that  will  emulate  those  of 
the  legions  led  by  Marcellus,  and  Scipio. 

*     .   '  Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

\  ,    '    '        Washington  City  21st  December,  1813 

-,'1  ■  .;  .    '  Har.  Pa.  245-246 

Sm: 

The  probability  of  the  Ohio  being  soon  closed  with  ice  has 
determined  me  to  proceed  to  the  westward  tomorrow,  altho 
I  should  have  been  extremely  glad  to  have  had  the  honour  of 
another  interview  with  you.  At  Cincinnati  I  shall  wait  your 
further  instructions.  The  President  is  apprehensive  that  the 
enemy  will  make  and  attempt  this  winter  to  re-occupy  IMalden 
and  Detroit.  An  enterprise  of  that  kind  is  not  very  improb- 
able for  the  purpose  of  regaining  the  confidence  of  the  In- 
dians. As  General  Cass  has  been  withdrawn!,  I  think  it  im- 
portant that  some  officer  of  rank  and  talents  should  be  sent 
to  succeed  him.  Gen.  [Benjamin]  Howard  can  be  spared  from 
the  Missouri  Territory.  To  the  Military  Talents  of  Governor 
[William]  Clark  and  his  intimate  acquaintance  with  the  In- 
dians our  affairs  in  that  quarters  can  be  safely  confided. 

If  the  determination  of  the  Government  in  relation  to  the 
late  hostile  Indians  should  be  such  as  you  suggested  and  which 
I  believe  is  approbated  by  the  President,  it  is  requisite  that 
immediate  attention  be  given  to  that  subject  to  anticipate  the 
British  Agents  who  will  certainly  be  at  work  amongst  them. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        611 

Those  that  were  formerly  employed  should  be  immediately 
paid.  A  distribution  of  goods  should  take  place  to  relieve 
their  immediate  and  pressing  wants  and  moderate  quantities 
of  provision  and  ammunition  furnished.  The  late  hostile 
chiefs  were  very  desirous  of  knowing  whether  the  former 
boundary  of  their  lands  was  to  continue.  Upon  this  subject 
I  have  had  some  conversation  with  the  President  and  some  of 
the  leading  western  members  their  opinions  seem  all  decidely 
to  coincide  with  mine  that  the  Indians  ought  to  be  made  easy 
in  this  particular  because  it  is  evident  that  upon  the  restora- 
tion of  peace  any  extinguishments  of  title  which  the  United 
States  may  acquire  can  be  effected  for  a  consideration  so 
trifling  that  it  ought  not  to  be  regarded. 

A  considerable  portion  of  the  Ohio  ]\Iilitia  now  in  service 
may  be  dismissed,  a  few  will  be  necessary  to  garrison  certain 
posts  upon  the  frontiers.  Shall  I  expect  your  particular  di- 
rections as  to  the  number  of  those  to  be  kept  up?  ]\Iost  of 
the  Rangers  may  also  be  dismissed.  One  company  at  St.  Louis 
will  I  think  be  sufficient  for  that  quarter.  But  it  will  be  neces- 
sary to  raise  one  at  Detroit.  I  deem  this  an  indispensable 
measure  to  the  safety  of  that  country.  What  shall  be  done 
with  the  horses  of  [S.  G.]  Hopkin's  Troops  of  Light  Dragoons 
which  were  left  at  Cleveland?  There  is  also  a  quantity  of  pub- 
lic property  at  all  the  Posts  in  Ohio  which  is  no  longer  useful. 
Shall  it  be  collected  and  sold? 

From  a  letter  which  has  been  written  from  the  War  Office 
since  your  departure  to  the  Northern  Frontier,  I  perceive  that 
Gen.  Howard  has  been  authorised  to  consider  himself  as  hav- 
ing an  Independent  command.  It  will  therefore  require  a 
letter  from  you  directing  him  to  repair  to  Detroit  or  requir- 
ing him  to  receive  my  orders. 

Upon  the  subject  of  Indian  affairs  I  should  be  glad  to  re- 
ceive your  directions  in  detail  and  permit  me  to  request  that 
your  answer  to  this  letter  may  be  immediately  forwarded  to 
Cincinnatti  to  meet  me  upon  my  arrival  there. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  the  ]\Iost  Respectful  Considera- 
tion 

Sir,  Your  Humble  Servant, 

William  Henry  Harrison 
Honble.  John  Armstrong 


612  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

;■  Posey  Special  Message 

CORYDON,  Dec.  27,  1813 

Western  Sun,  Febmary  19,  181U 

Dillon,  History  of  Indiana,  529,  note 

The  honorable  the  President  of  the  Legislative  Council: 

Sir:  I  wish  you  to  communicate  to  your  honorable  body 
that  the  deHcate  state  of  my  health  will  not  admit  of  my  longer 
continuance  at  this  place,  [Corydon].  I  find  myself  badly 
situated  on  account  of  the  want  of  medical  aid ;  my  physician 
is  at  Louisville,  and  I  have  taken  the  medicine  bro't  with  me. 
The  weather  is  moderate  now,  which  will  be  favorable  to  my 
going  on  to  Jeffersonville,  where  any  communications  that 
the  two  houses  of  the  Legislature  may  have  to  make  will  find 
me.  Mr.  [Basil?]  Prather  will,  in  the  most  expeditious  man- 
ner, bring  them  on,  and  it  ^vill  take  but  a  short  time  for  me 
to  act  upon  them  and  for  his  return,  v>^hich  would  not  detain 
the  Legislature  in  session  more  than  a  day  longer.  Be  as- 
sured, sir,  that  nothing  but  imperious  necessity  compels  me  to 
this  step. 

Accept  of  assurances  of  my  high  respect  for  yourself  and 
your  honorable  body.^ 

Th:  Posey 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 
-;■   -'^     ■  '         ■'  ■'         War  Department  Dec.  29th  1813 

'  '  ■  Har.  Pa.  85,  SO 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 
of  the  21st  and  22d  instant,     [see  above] 

Captain  [Charles  Scott]  Todd  has  been,  as  you  wished,  ap- 
pointed an  asst.  to  Inspector  General,  in  the  room  of  Lieut. 

1.     The  Governor's  decision  to  leave  the  capital   for  his  home  before  the  end  of  the 
legislative  session  excited  fconie  censure,  as  is  shown  by  the  following  communication  to 
the  Western  Sun,  Feb.  19,  ISM: 
"Mr.   [Elihii'i   Stout,    [Editor]: 

"It  is  said  in  some  parts  of  this  Territory  that  the  murmur  raised  in  Vincenncs 
against  the  Governor,  on  account  of  his  leaving  the  seat  of  government  during  the 
session  of  the  legislature,  is  unfounded,  and  treating  him  with  ingratitude,  for  that  his 
leaving  the  seat  of  government  during  the  session,  was  known  to  the  legislature,  and 
by  them  approved  of.  To  put  a  stop  to  the  error,  I  give  you  a  copy  of  his  excellency's 
letter  to  the  president  of  the  Legislative  Council,  and  the  resolution  entered  into  imme- 
diately upon  reading  his  Ictlci-,  which  I  trust  will  be  sufficient  evidence  to  the  people 
of  the   Territory  that   the    Legislative   Council   did   not  approve  of   his   plan,   mode,   and 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        613 

[Levi]  Hukill  deceased.  Lieut.  [David]  Tremble  will  be  placed 
where  you  desire,  if  it  be  practicable.  You  are  apprised  of 
the  excitement  and  clamor  which  follows  the  introduction  of 
strangers  into  old  Corps,  and  in  violation  of  the  rule  of  sen- 
iority. It  is  this  circumstance  that  gives  occasion  to  any  de- 
gree of  doubt  on  the  subject. 

Dr,  [Edward]  Scull  shall  be  appointed  to  the  19th  Regi- 
ment. I  am  entirely  of  opinion  that  the  enemy  will  endeavour 
to  reestablish  himself  to  the  West.  The  failure  of  the  cam- 
paign on  the  St.  Lawrence,  and  the  late  abandonment  of  the 
Peninsula  by  General  McClure  will  quicken  his  hopes  and  en- 
deavours in  the  prosecution  of  this  policy.  To  recover  his  as- 
cendencj'-  over  the  Indians,  he  must  stretch  himself  to  the 
Westward  and  take  a  position  which  will  facilitate  his  com- 
munications with  them.  The  British  Settlements  on  the 
Thames  will  furnish  this  position.  These  facts  indicate  the 
course  we  ought  to  pursue. 

1st.  These  settlements  must  be  broken  up  and  converted 
into  a  desart  or  they  must  be  held  by  a  superior  force — a  force 
competent  to  controul  the  inhabitants  and  to  meet  any  auxiliary 
means  General  Prevost  may  detach  for  the  purpose  of  recov- 
ering what  Proctor  has  lost.  Between  these  two  modes  of 
proceeding  we  cannot  hesitate — the  former  is  the  cheapest  and 
surest. 

2nd.  We  must  conciliate  the  late  hostile  tribes  and  make 
them  parties  with  us  in  the  War.  This  cannot  be  done  but  by 
supplying  their  wants  and  by  assuring  them  that  their  pres- 
ent boundaries  shall  continue,  as  though  no  War  had  arisen 
between  us. 

3rd.  Thus  engaged,  they  should  be  led  early  in  the  Spring 
against  the  British  frontier.  Let  loose  upon  that  and  well  di- 
rected, we  should  not  by  the  1st  day  of  June  have  a  British 

manner  of  abandoning  the  seat  of  government.  [Here  follows  the  Governor's  message, 
as  given  above.] 

"On  motion  of  Mr.  [Walter]  Wilson,  [of  Kno.x]  the  Legislative  Council  came  to 
the  following  resolution :  'Whereas,  it  hath  been  represented  to  this  house  that  his 
excellency  the  Governor  is  about  to  leave  the  seat  of  government  and  go  to  the  town 
of  Jeffersonville,  in  Clark  county, — Resolved,  therefore,  by  the  Legislative  Council  and 
House  of  Representatives,  that  the  committee  of  enrolled  bills  be  instructed  not  to 
deliver  the  enrolled  bills  to  any  person  except  his  excellency.'  This  resolution  was  sent 
to  the  House  of  Representatives  for  concurrence;  the  following  day  the  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives infoiTncd  the  Council  that  they  had  concurred  in  the  above  resolution.  By 
the  above  letter  and  resolution  you  mu.-t  think  that  the  Governor's  leaving  the  scat  of 
government  met  with   the  disapprobation  of  the    Legislature. 

'    '        A  Subscriber." 


.614  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

settler  west  of  Kingston.  A  question  may  occur  here — under 
what,  if  any  restrictions  as  to  their  mode  of  warfare  we  ought 
to  employ  them?  This  question  has  in  it  no  difiiculty.  Under 
what  justification  do  we  employ  them  at  all?  The  example 
of  the  enemy.  It  was  not  our  choice  but  theirs,  and  but  an 
appeal  made  to  their  fears  after  having  unsuccessfully  made 
man3^  to  their  justice.  The  experiment  should  therefore  have 
fair  play.  All  the  horrors  brought  to  our  firesides  ought  to  be 
carried  to  theirs.  Nor  is  this  a  policy  of  mere  retaliation.  The 
settlements  in  upper  Canada  abandoned  their  posts  cannot  be 
supplied,  and  will  of  course  be  also  abandoned. 

General  Mason  will  receive  directions  to  forward  supplies 
agreeably  to  a  list  which  I  understand  you  left  with  him  and 
it  will  be  for  you  to  judge  of  the  quantities  of  provision  and 
ammunition  that  shall  be  distributed.  Such  portions  of  the 
Ohio  Militia  as  can  in  your  opinion  be  safely  dispensed  \^ith 
should  be  immediately  discharged.  The  1st  and  part  of  the 
24th  Regt.  of  Infantry  should  be  withdra\\Ti,  and  put  on  their 
march  for  Sackett's  Harbour.  General  [Benjamin]  Howard's 
opinion  may  decide  what  portion  of  the  Rangers  may  be  re- 
tained in  Service.  If  two  or  more  of  these  be  thought  useless, 
at  St.  Louis  or  its  vicinity,  two  others  may  be  substituted  for 
them  at  Detroit.  General  Howard  will  be  instructed  to  take 
your  orders. 

I  cannot  add  by  anything  I  can  say  to  the  interest  you  will 
take  in  filling  up  the  Regiments  of  the  Line  which  have  hith- 
erto formed  your  Division.  Most  of  these  have  been  raised 
and  will  be  recruited  within  your  District.  If  any  new  legis- 
lative measures  be  taken  in  relation  to  the  recruiting  service 
they  shall  be  immediately  communicated.  It  is  worthy  of  in- 
quiry how  many  Riflemen  could  be  engaged  under  the  denomi- 
nation of  Volunteers,  within  the  State  of  Kentucky  for  the  en- 
suing campaigii  and  within  what  time  they  could  be  brought 
to  Sackett's  Harbour. 

The  Horses  of  [S.  G.]  Hopkin's  troop  may  be  sold  and  those 
and  other  articles  the  property  of  the  public  to  which  you  al- 
lude, and  which  do  not  appear  to  be  longer  useful.  A  report 
of  the  articles  and  the  prices  at  which  they  shall  be  sold  will 
be  sent  to  this  office.  The  enemy  have  crossed  the  Niagara, 
burnt  Lewiston  and  carried  Fort  Niagara  by  surprise.  These 
new  and  humiliating  circumstances  furnish  fresh  reasons  for 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        615 

quickness  and  vigor  in  the  course  we  adopt  for  engaging  the 
Indians  and  otherwise  defending  what  your  last  Campaign 
has  given  us.  Will  the  fleet  be  safe  at  Erie  and  at  put-in-Bay? 
If  not,  should  you  not  take  that  circumstance  into  the  account 
and  make  provision  accordingly?  .. 

Major  Genl.  Harrison  Cincinnati,  0. 

"    ^"  -  Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

(No.  102) 

Head  Quarters,  Pittsburgh,  29th  Dec.  1813 

Ear.  Pa.  2i8 

Sir: 

You  have  been  informed  that  the  two  ships,  taken  by  Como- 
dore  Perry  from  the  enemy  were  left  at  Put  in  Bay  under  the 
protection  of  a  small  guard  of  Infantry.  As  there  can  be  no 
doubt  but  the  enemy  will  make  every  exertion  to  destroy  our 
fleet  on  Lake  Erie  and  as  it  can  easily  be  effected  with  regard 
to  these  at  the  Bay  without  much  difficulty,  I  think  we  should 
anticipate  them  and  destroy  them  ourselves.  The  guns  on 
board  these  vessels  would  be  of  immense  importance  to  the 
enemy.  Without  them  they  could  not  arm  their  vessels,  even 
should  they  succeed  in  building  one  or  two  at  Long  Point  after 
destroying  the  whole  of  ours.  I  think  that  this  subject  re- 
quires immediate  attention. 

Permit  me  to  remind  you  of  the  claims  of  Col.  Smith  for  the 
command  of  the  contemplated  Rifle  Brigade. 

Our  vessels  at  Erie  should  in  my  opinion  be  enclosed  with 
Picketts,  it  would  not  be  difficult  to  efl"ect  it. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  gi-eat  Respect 
Sir  Your  Humble  Servant 
i         William  Henry  Harrison 
Hon.  John  Armstrong.  Esq  Secretary  of  Wen- 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 
f  ,  .  .,  War  Department  January  1st  1814 

'■--  -^-  -^         '  Har.  Pa.  87,  88 

Sir: 

We  are  advised  by  Genl.  [James]  Wilkinson  that  a  corps  of 
two  thousand  five  hundred  men  were  pushed  up  the  St.  Law- 
rence by  forced  marches  for  Kingston.    It  is  less  probable  that 


616  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

this  corps  is  destined  against  Sackett's  Harbour  as  suggested 
by  the  General  than  that  it  is  going  westward  to  re-establish 
the  British  power  on  the  Detroit  or  to  take  the  place  of  corps 
who  may  have  already  moved  with  that  intention. 

We  are  advised  also  by  captain  [Jesse  D.]  Elliott  that  the 
ships  in  put-in  bay  may  require  some  troops  for  their  protec- 
tion during  the  winter.  Of  the  number  of  these  you  ^^ill  be 
the  most  competent  judge.  The  vessels  at  Erie  are  also  to  be 
protected,  but  for  these  I  shall  make  provision  through  the 
Governor  of  Pennsylvania  and  by  recruits  from  Pittsburg. 

Genl.  [Lewis]  Cass's  Brigade  has  suffered  a  most  rapid 
and  alarming  diminution.  At  the  date  of  his  last  Brigade  re- 
turn, his  rank  and  file  fit  for  duty  did  not  exceed  470  and  this 
is  said  to  have  been  since  reduced  to  less  than  half  that  num- 
ber. An  epidemic  little,  if  at  all  under  the  control  of  medi- 
cine, is  believed  to  be  the  cause.  This  circumstance  and  that 
contained  on  the  first  paragraph  of  this  letter  offer  sufficient 
reasons  for  continuing  the  Ohio  Regiments  of  Militia  in  sei'\'- 
ice,  until  by  other  calls  or  by  the  organization  of  a  Volunteer 
force  (which  may  be  better)  you  may  be  able  to  meet  the  exi- 
gencies of  the  moment. 

The  President  bids  me  to  say  to  you,  that  on  reflection  he 
thinks  the  measure  indicated  in  my  last  letter  with  regard  to 
the  British  settlers  on  the  Thames  is  more  severe  than  may 
be  proper  and  that  of  course  you  will  change  it  for  the  fol- 
lowing viz :  to  make  prisoners  and  remove  to  our  settlements, 
so  many  of  the  male  British  settlers  as  may  be  most  disposed 
to  do  us  harm. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 

J   ' ';      J'     Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 
:,.        •  :      .-  War  Department  Jany.  8th,  1814 

-t    -     .-,,=  .  ^  Har.  Pa.  S9 

Sir: 

The  measure  you  suggest  of  burning  the  ships  in  Put-in 
Bay  can  only  be  resorted  to  when  all  others  calculated  for 
their  defense  have  failed.  The  ships  themselves  present  a 
heavier  battery  than  any  that  can  be  brought  against  them 
on  the  ice.  If  therefore  precautions  be  taken  against  board- 
ing they  may  winter  securely.  Some  efficient  officer  and  a 
competent  garrison  should  occupy  the  Block  House.     Genl. 


■'    HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        617 

[Lewis]  Cass  has  probably  left  Detroit  for  Albany.  General 
[Benjamin]  Howard  should  lose  no  time  in  pressing  forward 
to  the  former  of  these  places. 

There  are  about  twelve  hundred  public  arms  at  Cleveland 
with  which  you  will  arm  any  new  corps  of  militia  to  be  called 
out  or  which,  should  the  enemy  continue  to  ascend  the  Lake 
and  burn  the  Villages,  you  may  distribute  for  purposes  of  de- 
fence. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  January  11th,  1814 

Har.  Pa.  95 

Sir 

You  are  authorized  to  invite  the  late  hostile  Indians  to  a 
Treaty  of  Peace.  Time  must  be  allowed  for  General  Mason 
to  get  forward  his  supplies.  You  v/ill  select  the  place  of  hold- 
ing the  treaty.  Fort  Wayne  suggests  itself.  Let  us  know 
•your  decision  with  regard  to  both  time  and  place  as  earlj^  as 
possible. 
Major  General  Harrison 

'  M  'V  Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

;  -  y       _  War  Department  January  13th  1814 

Har.  Pa.  96 

Sir: 

Herewith  inclosed  you  will  receive  a  copy  of  a  requisition 
made  by  General  Cass  for  a  detachment  of  ]\Iilitia  from  the 
State  of  Ohio  and  a  copy  of  my  letter  to  the  Governor  on  the 
subject.  You  Avill  adopt  such  further  arrangements  as  the 
good  of  the  service  may  require. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison,  Cincinnati 

'•     •  Prevost  TO  Dickson 

,:'     '  Jan.  14,  1813 

Mich.  Pio.  and  Hist.  Soc.  Pub.  XV,  218 

Reposing  especial  trust  in  your  Zeal,  loyalty  and  ability,  I 
have  been  induced  to  appoint  you  to  be  agent  for  the  Indians 
of  the  several  Nations  to  the  Westward  of  Lake  Huron,  by 

42—22664 


618  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Commission  dated  on  the  1st  Jany.  1813,  \vith  a  salary  of  £200 
per  Annum  payable  through  the  accounts  of  the  Indian  De- 
partment and  the  several  allowances  of  a  superintendent  to- 
gether with  an  allowance  of  £300  A.  H.  C.  per  Annum  which 
\vi]\  be  paid  you  from  another  source,  to  cover  all  traveling  and 
contingent  expenses. 

It  appears  to  be  highly  expedient  for  the  benefit  of  the  Pub- 
lic Welfare  in  this  part  of  H.  M.  Dominions  that  as  effective 
an  Indian  force  as  practicable  should  be  brought  forward  next 
spring  from  amongst  the  Western  Nations,  to  be  employed 
when  circumstances  may  require  their  Aid  in  the  Province  of 
Upper  Canada.  With  a  view  therefore  to  accomplish  this  ob- 
ject and  to  give  greater  respectability  and  efficacy  to  your 
exertions,  you  are  hereby  furnished  with  a  Commission  from 
me,  and  you  are  required  to  proceed  without  delay  upon  the 
Service. 

I  approve  of  LaBaye  [Green  Bay]  and  Chicago  being  the 
place  of  rendezvous  for  the  Indians,,  where  as  many  of  the 
articles  stated  in  the  returns  submitted  by  you  to  the  Confi- 
dential Board  at  Montreal,  as  can  be  furnished  will  be  ordered 
to  be  sent  as  early  as  possible  in  the  spring  from  Amherstburg 
and  Michilimackinac,  and  you  have  authority  to  purchase  such 
provisions  as  maj^  be  absolutely  necessary  for  the  subsistence 
of  the  Indians  until  the  several  Articles  arrive,  as  also  some 
Tobacco  &  Liquor,  to  be  given  them  as  a  regale.  When  Col- 
lected You  will  report  the  same  to  the  Oflicer  Commg  in  Up- 
per Canada,  stating  to  him  the  Number  of  Warriors  dispos- 
able, and  wait  instructions  for  their  movements  from  thence 
according  to  the  Circumstances  of  the  War. 

You  have  Authority  to  make  such  requisitions  as  may  be 
necessary  upon  H.  M.  Indian  storekeepers  or  other  proper 
officers  for  such  goods  and  provisions,  as  from  time  to  time 
shall  be  Considered  needful  for  the  accomplishment  of  the  Ob- 
ject in  Viev/,  such  requisitions  being  with  the  Knowledge  & 
Concurrence  of  the  Officer  Comg.  H.  M.  Forces  at  the  Post 
where  the  requisition  is  made.  Instructions  to  this  eff'ect  will 
be  given  to  the  proper  Officers  by  ]\Iajo  Genl  Sheaffe  and  Sir 
John  Johnson. 

Amable  Chevalier  the  Ottawa  Indian  will  be  allowed  to  ac- 
company you  upon  your  intended  excursion  and  may  be  con- 
sidered as  a  Lieut.  &  Interpreter  and  receive  pay  of  5  s.  Cur- 
rency per  day.     Captain  Norton  may  also  proceed  with  you 


"  -i-l     HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        619 

from  Niagara  to  Amherstburg,  and  return  as  soon  as  possible 
if  Major  Genl.  Sheaffe  can  dispense  with  his  services  for  the 
period  he  would  be  absent. 

You  will  be  allowed  to  employ  a  number  of  officers,  not  ex- 
ceeding Five  Who  must  be  men  of  intelligence  and  confidence, 
&  a  Number  of  Interpreters  well  versed  in  the  languages  of  the 
Western  tribes  not  exceeding  15,  being  in  all  20.  The  Offi- 
cers will  hereafter  be  furnished  with  Commissions  as  Lieutts. 
with  Provincial  rank  and  the  pay  of  6s  6d  per  day  and  allow- 
ances, The  Interpreters  will  have  w^arrants  &  pay  at  the 
rate  of  a  Dollar  a  day  &  allowances.  The  above  numbers  of 
officers  and  interpreters  are  mentioned  in  the  Anticipation 
that  upwards  of  1000  picked  Warriors  will  be  Collected.  If 
less  than  that  number  the  Officers  and  interpreters  should  be 
in  proportion. 

During  the  period  of  your  present  employment  it  is  to  be 
understood  that  you  are  not  to  be  engaged  in  any  trade  what- 
ever, &  your  appointment  is  only  intended  during  the  war 
with  the  United  States,  unless  Government  should  see  fit  at 
the  peace  to  prolong  it.  It  is  also  to  be  understood  that  the 
subordinate  appointments  are  only  to  continue  during  the  war. 

In  the  policy  to  be  strictly  observed,  in  your  conduct  towards 
the  different  tribes,  it  is  desirable  that  you  should  endeavour 
to  conciliate  them  to  act  together  harmoniousl3^  that  you 
should  restrain  them  by  all  the  means  in  your  power  from 
acts  of  Cruelty  and  inhumanity,  encouraging  in  them  a  dis- 
position to  preserve  an  alliance  of  friendship  with  their  great 
father  the  King  of  England,  by  whose  special  favour  they  are 
indulged  with  his  protection,  and  that  the  presents  and  other 
comforts  they  now  receive  flow  from  his  bounty,  in  his  kind 
consideration  to  preserve  them  and  their  families  from  the 
miseries  to  which  they  are  exposed  by  an  Enemy  overrunning 
their  Country. 

The  Indians  in  General  should  be  instructed  to  hold  out  to 
all  Americans  whether  in  arms  or  otherwise  that  they  must 
retire  beyond  the  boundary  line  fixed  by  Wajme's  treaty  and 
that  no  Americans  can  be  allowed  to  remain  on  the  Indian 
side  of  the  line,  without  the  risk  of  being  treated  as  enemies, 
except  where  reserves  have  been  granted  by  treaties  with  the 
Indians,  and  it  is  to  be  clearly  understood  that  the  Indians 
.  only  are  to  appear  as  the  movers  in  such  proceedings. 

You  will  report  to  me  from  time  to  time  by  the  most  ex- 


620  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

peditious  route  all  your  proceedings  &  you  will  carefully  main- 
tain a  communication  with  the  ofllcers  commg  His  IMajesty's 
Forces  in  U.  Canada,  respecting  the  success  or  difficulties 
which  may  attend  the  important  service  j'ou  have  undertaken. 

George  Prevost,  Com.  of  the  Forces 
To  Robert  Dickson 

Gano  to  Harrison 

Head  Quarters,  0.  M.  Lower  Sandusky 

January  17,  1814 

Am.  St  a.  Pa.  Mil.  Aff.  I,  656 

Dear  General: 

The  disagreeable  news  from  below  occasions  me  to  have 
great  anxiety  for  the  vessels  at  Put-in-bay.  I  proceeded  a 
few  days  ago  to  Portage,  in  order  to  cross  to  see  their  situa- 
tion ;  the  ice  prevented  my  going  by  water  and  was  not  suffi- 
cient to  bear.  I  have,  however,  been  relieved  by  a  visit  from 
Lieutenant  Champlain,  and  Doctor  Eastman  of  the  navy,  who 
came  up  the  night  before  last  and  returned  yesterday;  they 
came  over  on  the  ice,  though  it  was  very  thin  in  places.  The 
lieutenant  informs  me  he  has  ten  seamen  and  forty  soldiers, 
and  has  his  vessels  and  guns  so  prepared,  that,  in  case  of  an 
attack,  he  can  bring  about  forty  to  bear  from  on  board  and 
a  small  block-house,  on  the  rocky  point  of  land  near  the  ves- 
sels. I  shall,  by  his  request,  and  my  own  opinion  of  the  ne- 
cessity of  the  measure,  send  a  reinforcement  of  about  thirty 
of  the  regulars  from  Seneca,  as  soon  as  the  ice  is  sufficiently 
strong  to  bear  them.  At  the  fort  at  Portage  I  have  o:ne  hun- 
dred militia,  which  may  render  them  some  assistance  if  nec- 
essarj'- ;  my  troops  are  very  much  scattered,  and  I  believe  every 
post  is  in  a  tolerable  state  of  defence.  The  troops  have  had 
immense  fatigue  since  they  have  been  out,  they  are  now  more 
healthy,  and  appear  in  better  spirits  since  two  months'  pay 
has  come  on,  though  nothing  will  induce  them  to  continue 
longer  than  their  term  of  service,  which  expires  the  last  of 
next  month.  Majors  Vance  and  I\Ieek  arrived  three  days  ago 
from  Detroit,  and  have  an  exalted  opinion  of  the  vigilance  and 
arrangements  of  Colonel  Butler;  the  officers  Captains  Holmes 
and  Hill,  commanding  Maiden  and  Sandwich,  have  put  them- 
selves in  the  best  possible  state  of  defence.  A  detachment 
under  the  command  of  IMajor  Smiley  has  gone  up  the  river 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        621 

Thames.  The  mihtia  at  Detroit  are  discontented,  a  number 
sick,  some  dead,  etc.  I  have  been  hawk  and  buzzard  as  to  sup- 
plies— the  commissary  and  contractor — and  I  fear  that  with 
all  the  exertions  that  can  be  made  some  of  the  posts  must 
suffer;  at  Lleigs  no  flour,  and  two  or  three  other  posts  in  the 
nearly  the  same  situation.  I  called  on  the  contractors  and 
urged  the  necessity  of  immediate  supplies,  but  I  cannot  rely 
on  their  promises.  The  want  of  forage  has  nearly  destroyed 
all  the  transport  on  this  line ;  I  have  urged  Captain  Gardner  to 
supply  the  agent  of  that  department,  at  this  place,  with  funds 
for  that  purpose  but  to  no  effect.  I  have  been  lately  very  un- 
well, but  have  recovered,  except  a  lame  ancle.  As  it  is  un- 
certain where  this  will  meet  you,  I  shall  not  give  a  detailed 
account  until  I  know  where  you  are,  and  will  then  write  more 
fully,  and  send  you  a  report  of  the  troops  under  my  command. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  your  most  obedient  and  very  humble 
. .      ,  servant, 

John  S.  Gang 

P.  S.  Six  o'clock  P.  M.  An  express  from  Erie  has  just  ar- 
rived here,  a  naval  officer  with  a  letter  from  General  Cass,  and 
a  request  from  Captain  Elliot  for  a  reinforcement  for  Put-in- 
Bay  of  two  hundred  men.  I  have  ordered  Lieutenant  ]\Ic- 
Farland  from  Seneca  with  all  his  effective  regulars,  about 
thirtj'  able  to  march  being  all  the  disposable  force  I  have, 
except  a  small  command  at  Portage  erecting  a  fortification 
there,  from  which  I  will  detach  a  part,  though  the  whole  can- 
not make  more  than  a  third  of  the  number  required.  From 
information  there  is  not  the  least  doubt  but  an  attempt  will 
be  made  to  take  or  destroy  the  vessels;  it  is  the  opinion  of 
Lieutenant  Packet  and  General  Cass  also.  Will  it  not  be 
proper  to  send  on  some  regular  troops  or  militia  from  the  in- 
terior without  delay? 

John  S.  Gano 

His  Excellency  Wm.  H.  Harrison 


.  M,  Harrison  TO  Shelby 

■'  ■  Head  Quarters  Cincinnatti  17th  Jany.  1814 

I  V.  \      From  Governor  Isaac  Shelbi/a  "Letter  Book  B"  45 

^  •     Dear  Sir  ' 

The  situation  of  our  frontiers  requiring  in  my  opinion  all 
the  regular  Troops  to  be  marched  from  the  interior  I  must 


622  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

request  your  Excellency  to  detach  a  command  of  one  Lieuten- 
ant one  Ensign  and  sixty-five  non-Comniissioned  Ofllccrs  and 
privates  to  guard  the  Arsenal  and  the  Prisoners  of  war  at 
Newport. 

I  have  the  honour  to  be  with  great  respect  &.  consideration 
:    '  ,   •  Your  Excellency 

Humble  servt. 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
Gov.  Isaac  Shelby,  Frankfort 

; Vm  !    ;  '.  Gang  TO  Harrison 

;'    '  V   ,     "       ._  Head  Quarters,  0.  M.  Lo\YER  Sandusky, 

:''■■;  \  January  25,  1814 

.     Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Aff.  I,  656 

Dear  General: 

Yours  of  the  16th  inst.  I  received  this  day,  and  directed  my 
brigade  major  to  make  the  enclosed  report,  by  which  you  will 
see  the  situation  of  the  troops  under  my  command.  I  have 
issued  orders  as  per  enclosed  copies.  The  difficulty  in  for- 
warding provisions,  owing  to  the  impossibility  of  transporta- 
tion by  land,  has  been  and  is,  severely  felt;  the  troops  at 
Meigs  have  been  obliged  to  take  flour  from  Winchester  them- 
selves, there  being  no  other  means  of  transport,  and  are  now 
but  scantily  supplied;  I  have  urged  the  contractors  on  this 
head,  but  have  received  nothing  but  fair  promises,  until  my 
patience  is  entirely  exhausted,  and  I  have  directed  Mr.  Oliver 
to  supply.  A  man  from  Put-in-bay  left  here  this  morning. 
He  informs  me  the  detachment  I  sent  on  had  not  been  able  to 
cross,  but  are  waiting  at  the  point  of  the  peninsula,  and  will 
cross  as  soon  as  possible;  I  have  ordered  Major  Crooks  with 
some  militia  to  cross ;  which  will  make  the  force  there  as  fol- 
lows :  sailors  twenty  two,  Atkins'  command  forty-two,  all  now 
there;  [Daniel]  McFarland  with  twenty-eight  regulars  on  the 
march,  and  Crooks  with  Captain  Howel's  company,  say  fortj^ 
which  is  one  hundred  and  thirty-two,  and  I  have  one  company 
at  the  fort  at  Portage.  I  fear  the  provisions  at  the  island  are 
not  sufficient  to  support  them  until  the  ice  will  break  up  to 
afford  water  transportation  to  them;  and  at  Portage  they  de- 
pend on  this  place  for  flour,  which  is  scarce;  they  have,  hovr- 
ever,  meat  enough  here.     Thus,  you  see,  as  before  I  observed 


':!;      HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        623 

to  you,  we  have  been  between  liawk  and  buzzard — the  con- 
tractor and  commissary,  I  am  informed  the  detachment  that 
returned  to  Detroit  from  the  Thames  did  not  succeed  in  get- 
ting the  quantity  of  provision  expected,  I  am  also  informed, 
by  some  officers  from  Buffalo,  that  the  British  were  preparing 
a  secret  expedition;  their  destination  unknown.  I  am  happy 
to  inform  you  every  exertion  has  been  made  at  Detroit,  Sand- 
wich, and  Maiden  to  defend  those  places  to  the  last  extremity 
and  the  commanding  officer,  since  General  Cass  left  there,  de- 
serves great  credit.  Neither  of  those  places  will  be  given  up 
without,  some  fighting;  the  officers  commanding  each  are  in 
high  spirits,  and  have  great  confidence  in  their  ability  to  de- 
fend their  posts.  Some  artillery  officers  have  passed  on  to 
Detroit,  and  I  am  of  opinion  that  some  active  regular  officers 
are  wanting  there,  as  many  have  left  it.  The  militia  have 
been  very  much  reduced  there,  as  you  will  see.  I  must  inform 
you  I  have  lost  a  number  of  my  militia,  out  of  the  few  I  had 
here.  I  buried  at  this  place  fifteen  or  sixteen,  which  is  as 
gi'eat  a  proportion  as  they  have  lost  at  Detroit ;  and  one  other 
small  part  of  a  company  has  buried  seven.  I  have  never  men- 
tioned this  part  of  the  subject  before,  as  I  thought  it  best  to 
keep  it  close.  I  am  informed  some  Canadians  attempted  to 
cross  from  Long  Point  to  Put-in-bay,  but  found  the  ice  in- 
sufficient and  returned;  their  object  not  known.  I  assure  you 
I  have  and  will  continue  to  use  every  exertion  for  the  good 
of  the  service ;  I  have  had  the  arms,  etc.  that  the  Kentuckians 
threw  away  at  Portage  collected,  and  the  principal  part 
brought  to  this  place,  and  the  cattle  and  some  horses  have 
been  taken  and  converted  to  public  use.  There  is  plenty  of 
ammunition  at  Fort  Meigs,  but  it  is  scarce  on  this  line.  I  sent 
for  powder  to  Meigs,  but  our  means  of  transportation  was 
such  that  we  only  received  two  hundred  pounds  half  cannon ; 
but  I  am  informed  there  is  a  large  quantity  on  board  the  ves- 
sels fixed  and  unfixed,  and  six  thousand  five  hundred  stand 
of  arms,  some  field  carriages,  etc.  which  I  have  ordered  to  be 
brought  over  as  soon  as  the  ice  will  permit;  the  roads  arc  so 
very  bad  it  has  been  impracticable.  I  am  well  satisfied  I  have 
not  been  ordered  to  Detroit,  and  particularly'  as  General  Cass 
appeared  to  be  opposed  to  it;  and  I  have  had  an  immense 
trouble  in  regulating  my  different  posts,  and  quieting  the  mur- 
murs of  my  militia.     They  are  very  good,  but  not  such  as  1 


624  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

used  to  take  the  field  with  when  we  were  first  acquainted  in 
the  former  Indian  wars.  I  have  ordered  to  be  transmitted  to 
the  secretary  of  War  the  sentence  of  two  general  court  mar- 
tials,  as  I  (by  the  articles  of  war)  am  authorized  to  approve 
of  the  sentence,  and  have  it  carried  into  effect.  If  those  pow- 
ers are  delegated  to  you,  sir,  please  to  inform  me  by  the 
bearer.  Mr.  Sallion,  Avho  has  been  stationed  at  Fort  Meigs 
in  the  commissary's  line,  can  give  you  much  information  on 
many  points  that  I  cannot  at  present.  General  Cass,  by  my 
request,  ordered  Colonel  Paul  to  inspect  the  militia  at  this 
Post,  Portage,  Meigs,  Findlay,  Upper  Sandusky,  and  Mc- 
Arthur,  and  Captain  Moore  on  the  other  line,  which  is  com- 
pleted by  this  time. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  with  great  respect  and  esteem,  your 
most  obedient  and  humble  servant. 

John  S.  Gano 
His  Excellency  William  H.  Harrison  ^  -m 

P.  S.  You  will  see  a  great  diminution  of  my  force,  many 
being  sick  and  absent,  and  I  having  discharged  two  companies 
by  your  order  to  escort  the  prisoners,  etc.  My  first  report  was 
two  thousand  one  hundred  and  thirty-four,  and  the  amount  or- 
dered to  Detroit  was  near  six  hundred.  You  see  now  the 
number  of  effectives  there  are  amazingly  reduced. 

-  Shelby  TO  Harrison 

-   '  ■  '•  ■        Frankfort  January  25th  1814 

Frmn  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A"  17 i 

Dear  Sir 

I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  last  evening  of 
your  favour  of  the  17th  inst.,  [see  above]  requiring  me  to 
order  to  Newport  one  Lieutenant,  1  Ensign  and  sixty-five 
non-Commissioned  Officers  &  privates  to  guard  the  Arsenal 
&  prisoners  of  war  at  that  place. 

In  consequence  of  which  I  have  ordered  Major  General  Bos- 
well  commanding  the  division  most  contiguous  to  that  point 
to  detach  immediately  from  his  command  the  force  you  re- 
quire, and  order  them  to  their  post  of  destination  without  the 
least  possible  loss  of  time. 

As  you  have  not  stated  for  what  length  of  time  their  services 
would  be  required  I  have  ordered  them  out  for  three  months 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        625 

from  the  time  they  arrive  at  Newport  unless  sooner  discharged 
by  your  Orders,  if  therefore  it  should  be  necessary  to  relieve 
this  detachment  at  the  expiration  of  their  time  of  service  you 
will  be  so  good  as  to  apprise  me  in  time  that  it  may  be  effected 
in  due  season. 

Permit  me  to  congratulate  you  on  your  safe  arrival  to  your 
familj'-  who  I  hope  you  found  in  good  health — I  am  sure  you 
must  want  rest  and  trust  the  cause  of  your  Country  will  now 
afford  you  the  opportunity  to  enjoy  it  at  your  own  fireside — 
I  will  take  this  occasion  too  to  thank  you  for  the  loan  of  your 
sorrel  horse,  and  to  inform  you  that  I  left  him  in  the  care  of 
General  Gano  (as  you  requested)  at  lower  Sandusky  he  prom- 
ised me  to  take  special  care  of  it  and  let  you  know  that  he 
had  him  in  charge. 

With  sincere  regard  &  esteem 
I  remain 

Dear  Sir  '.. 

Your  most  obt.   servt. 

Isaac  Shelby 


Genl.  Harrison 


Gano  to  Harrison 


Lo\VER  Sandusky,  January  27,  1814 

Am.  Sia.  Pa.  Mil.  Aff.  I,  657 

Dear  General: 

Captain  Payne  has  called  on  me  to  sanction  his  drawing 
funds  for  his  department ;  I  have  thought  proper  to  refer  him 
to  j^ou ;  I  am  informed  a  good  supply  of  corn  may  be  had  near 
a  mill  forty  miles  from  this.  Will  it  not  be  advisable  to  have 
three  or  four  hundred  of  meal  forwarded  on  to  the  army? 
The  flour  the  contractor's  agent  promised,  should  have  been 
here  ten  days  ago,  but  has  not  arrived,  and  owing  to  the  dis- 
appointment we  are  reduced  in  that  article  at  this  post  to 
nineteen  barrels  Senecca,  seventeen  Portage.  I  sent  four  bar- 
rels there  yesterday;  at  Meigs  they  are  very  short,  at  Win- 
chester they  have  two  or  three  hundred  barrels,  but  short  of 
meat.  I  must  confess  I  have  been  completely  deceived  and 
disappointed  by  them,  they  having  stated  it  was  on  the  road. 
I  gave  them  notice  24th  December,  to  have  three  months'  ra- 
tions at  different  posts  for  the  number  of  men  specified.  Cap- 
tain Payne  knows  the  situation ;  you  will  please  give  him  such 


626  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

directions  as  you  think  proper,  on  this  subject;  he  ceiiainly 
exerted  himself  much  to  my  satisfaction,  in  forwarding  pro- 
visions and  clothing  to  Detroit;  you  know  him.  If  he  could 
get  leave  to  settle  his  accounts  it  may  be  best.  Excuse  this 
suggestion.  If  you  had  not  arrived  in  your  district,  I  was 
determined  to  have  sent  in  every  direction  and  purchased  pro- 
visions at  all  events  for  the  troops  in  service,  and  those  that 
were  to  relieve  them,  but  I  am  happy  the  arrangement  has 
fallen  into  your  hands,  for  I  think  I  would  hang  half  of  the 
quartermasters  and  all  the  contractors,  if  I  was  to  remain  in 
sei'vice  much  longer ;  and  I  am  astonished  how  you  have  man- 
aged with  them  to  effect  the  objects  you  have,  for  there  ap- 
pears no  system  or  regularity  with  any  of  them.  I  have  or- 
dered one  company  more  to  this  place  from  Findlay,  and  a 
sergeant,  two  corporals,  and  twelve  men  from  Upper  Sandusky 
to  that  post,  which  is  all  the  force  I  can  order  hero  from 
this  and  the  centre  line.  This  day's  report  is  eighty  sick,  at 
Meigs.  I  am  happy  to  inform  you  the  troops  at  Detroit  are 
recovering,  for  you  see  we  can  afford  them  but  little  aid.  If 
a  successful  attempt  is  made  at  Put-in  bay,  (which  God  for- 
bid, and  I  think  impossible,)  we  may  have  a  visit  from  them. 
We  will  endeavor  to  give  a  good  account,  for  my  men  are  in 
high  spirits,  and  I  have  added  much  to  the  strength  of  this 
place;  we  are  not  well  supplied  with  ammunition,  but  have 
sent  for  some  from  the  shipping  and  Franklinton. 
I  am,  with  great  respect,  your  humble  servant. 

John  S.  Gano 

M.  Elliott  to  Glegg 
;•>  ■"'■'-  ■  Beach  31st  January  1814 

"     ■  Mich.  Hist,  and  Pio.  Soc.  Pa.  XV,  J,Si 

Sir, 

The  Indian  I\Iessengers  I  had  sent  to  the  Westward  arrived 
to  day  at  12  o'clock  Just  as  I  received  your  letter. 

They  brought  a  Speech  on  Wampum  from  their  Brethern 
expressing  their  joy  at  our  success  and  their  anxious  wishes 
for  our  speedy  arrival  among  them,  telling  their  Father  that 
they  have  only  taken  the  Big  Knife  by  his  fingers  end  and 
have  spoken  to  them  from  the  lip  outwards  and  that  they  are 
always  ready  to  obey  their  Father's  order  so  soon  as  given. 
That  they  are  more  afraid  of  the  French  inhabitants  who  are 


".        HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        627 

all  armed,  than  of  the  American  Troops,  because  if  they  hear 
of  their  having  received  messages  from  this  place  they  will 
seize  their  wives  &  children  and  put  them  in  confinement. 

The  messengers  report  that  the  inhabitants  have  made  the 
Indians  believe  that  the  Americans  had  cleared  all  before  them 
to  Quebec  &  that  the  small  remnant  was  shut  up  in  Quebec 
living  on  dogs  &  horses. 

The  Americans  they  suppose  are  in  expectation  of  a  rein- 
forcement at  Detroit  as  a  vast  number  of  Hogs  &  Cattle  are 
daily  killed  &  the  store  kept  full.  The  Detroit  with  about  a 
hundred  Shot  Holes  on  her  is  at  Amherstburg  ancl  all  the  other 
vessels  at  Presquisle.  This  we  will  be  more  certain  of  when 
Captain  Caldwell  arrives.  Our  Friends  to  the  westward  make 
a  demand  of  arms  &  ammunition  and  Vvish  us  to  send  about 
forty  men  loaded  with  the  articles.  Arms  also  &  Gunpowder 
are  wanted  for  the  people  here  of  the  first  I  secured  some  from 
Kingston  &  you  can  supply  the  latter.  The  Stores  here  will 
othen\ise  answer  all  the  demands. 

The  Sakies  &  Foxes  as  they  intend  to  go  to  their  own  coun- 
try are  arriving  at  Detroit,  will  take  their  Families  with  them, 
but  as  there  are  not  many  of  them  the  Expence  will  not  be 
considerable.  The  other  Tribes  leave  their  families  here. 
six  hundred  warriors  if  wanted  are  readj^  to  cooperate  with 
the  Troops  &  only  wait  the  call. 

Upon  this  point  the  Lieut  Genls  further  directions  are  re- 
quested— 

Altho'  desirous  of  manifesting  in  the  name  of  H.  R.  H. 
the  Prince  Regent,  his  desire  to  maintain  a  perfecT:ly  good 
understanding  with  the  Western  Indians  &  to  protect  them 
from  the  encroachments  of  the  U.  S.  upon  their  territory  I 
am  disposed  to  relinquish  that  wish  provided  Lt.  Genl.  Drum- 
mond  is  satisfied  that  the  reasons  alleged  are  Just  &,  ought 
to  be  attended  to — 

I  had  almost  forgot  to  mention  that  I  received  a  few  days 
ago  a  letter  on  the  Subject  of  the  projected  Expedition  from 
His  Honor  Lieutenant  General  Drummond  requiring  my  opin- 
ion about  employing  only  the  Delawares  &  Munscys,  and  also 
his  desire  that  no  useless  consumer  of  provisions  should  be 
allowed  to  go  along.  I  certainly  am  of  his  &  General  Riall's 
opinion  as  to  the  last  but  I  stated  to  him  on  the  subject  of  the 
Munseys  &  Delawares,  that  it  appeared  to  me  impolitic,  & 


628  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

might  occasion  jealousies,  &  I  proposed  a  selection  from  all 
the  Tribes,  amounting  to  the  number  that  might  be  required, 
as  a  step  that  I  was  sure  would  give  general  satisfaction, 

I  am  now  recruiting  slowly  &  hope  in  a  few  days  to  be  able 
to  undertake  any  sei'vice  General  Riall  may  wish  to  be  per- 
fonned. 
.    I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir 

Your  obedient  Humble  Servant 

M.  Elliott  S.  I.  A. 
To  Capt.  J.  B.  Glegg 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  Feby.  5th  1814 

■  Hao:  Pa.  97 

Sir: 

Brig.  General  Howard's  destination  to  Detroit  has  been  sus- 
pended. The  state  of  his  health  is  represented  as  bad.  [he 
died  Sept.  18]  This  may  account  for  your  not  having  heard 
from  him.  I  inclose  the  substance  of  Lt.  Worley's  informa- 
tion. 

Will  it  not  be  well  to  bring  off  the  guns  from  the  ships  at 
Put-in-bay?  Were  the  vessels  completely  dismantled,  they 
would  form  a  small  object  for  the  enterprise  of  the  enemy. 

The  alarms  for  the  safety  of  Erie  and  the  shipping  there, 
which  followed  the  disasters  on  the  Niagara  brought  together 
a  host  of  3000  volunteers  and  militia.  If  the  passage  of  the 
Lake  be  practicable  to  the  enemy  why  not  to  us  also?  1000 
of  the  Volunteers  may  cross  over  to  long-point  and  break  up 
that  establishment.  Orders  to  this  effect  have  been  given. 
Major  General  Harrison 

Gano  to  Harrison 

Lower  Sandusky,  February,  10,  1814 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Af.  I,  657 

Dear  General: 

The  day  before  yesterday  I  returned  from  Foii:  Meigs,  after 
making  some  necessaiy  arrangements  there.  I  have  one  addi- 
tional company  of  men  at  Portage,  who  have  orders  to  cross, 
as  soon  as  the  ice  will  admit,  which  will  fill  the  complement 
required.     They  marched  from  Fort  Findlay;  the  man  who 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        629 

floated  off  on  a  cake  of  ice  is  safe.  It  wafted  him  to  the  ice 
fast  to  the  island  a  singular  escape.  I  believe  the  vessel  safe, 
but  will  be  ready  to  afford  all  the  protection  in  my  power.  I 
have  been  obliged  to  discharge  some  men  who  had  certificates 
of  having  served  a  month  last  summer  a  year.  The  men  are 
all  anxious  to  be  relieved;  they  have  had  a  busy  tour,  and  1 
would  be  glad  to  have  those  at  the  island  relieved  before,  or 
by  the  time  their  term  of  service  expires ;  and  if  those  on  this 
line  could  be  mustered  at  Upper  Sandusky,  if  you  approve  can 
deposite  their  arms  there,  and  those  of  Detroit  and  Meigs 
could  be  mustered  at  Winchester  or  St.  i\Iary's.  I  will  await 
your  orders  on  this  subject,  and  if  I  remain  alone  will  keep 
this  post  until  relieved  or  ordered  away,  though  I  feel  anxious 
to  see  my  family,  and  particularly  on  account  of  the  indisposi- 
tion of  a  part  of  it. 

I  have  ordered  the  arms  from  this  to  Franklinton  that  want 
repair,  and  if  you  advise  tents  and  camp  kettles,  axes,  etc., 
could  be  sent  in  by  return  wagons.  There  has  been  no  pos- 
sible way  of  removing  the  six  or  seven  thousand  stand  of  arms, 
etc,  etc,  from  the  vessels.  My  brigade  major  has  not  been 
able  to  return,  and  I  think  there  has  been  a  kind  interposition 
of  Providence  in  the  protection  of  the  vessels.  This  winter, 
provision  has  been  extremely  scanty ;  we  have  been  reduced  to 
half  a  barrel  flour  here,  but  I  ordered  from  Seneca  three  bar- 
rels, and  purchased  or  borrowed  two  or  three  for  the  company. 
At  Portage,  and  at  Fort  Meigs,  they  were  four  days  without, 
though  twenty-four  barrels  arrived  there  the  night  before  I 
left  there,  and  more  expected.  Mr.  Oliver  informs  me,  sup- 
plies will  shortly  be  on  to  this  place ;  you  must  have  received 
the  news  from  Detroit  as  late  as  this,  therefore  I  will  not  com- 
municate. Please  present  my  compliments  to  your  good  lady 
and  familj'',  and  believe  me  to  be,  with  much  esteem. 

Your  most  obedient  humble  servant 

John  S.  Gano 
To  His  Excellency  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  Feby  10th  1814 

'-  Har.  Pa.  98 

Sir 

Your  letter  of  Dec  24th  addressed  to  the  Department  of 


630  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

State  has  boon  referred  to  this  Department  and  conformably 
to  your  offer,  I  have  to  request  you  to  forward  charges  with 
such  evidence  as  you  may  possess,  relative  to  the  mal-conduct 
of  John  Sibley,  Indian  agent  at  Natchiteches. 
Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jefferson viLLE,  17th  Feb.  1814 

■       -  Har.  Pa.  281,  282 

Sir: 

I  herewith  inclose  to  you  an  annual  return  of  the  militia 
of  this  Territory,  the  aggregate  of  which  including  officers, 
commissioned  and  non-commissioned  and  rank  and  file,  will 
amount  to  5017.  This  number  I  thought  sufficient  to  form 
three  divisions  six  brigades  and  twelve  regiments.  The  num- 
ber as  well  as  the  large  extent  of  the  Territory  and  dispersed 
situation  of  the  militia  would  justify  it  and  the  Territory  is 
increasing  very  fast  in  population.  A  consideration  of  the 
foregoing  circumstances,  together  with  the  more  practical 
mode  of  discipline  has  induced  me  to  the  formation  of  the 
militia  in  the  manner  mentioned. 

I  have  not  yet  completed  my  selection  of  General  officers, 
but  shall  make  out  a  list  and  transmit  to  you  in  a  few  weeks, 
to  be  commissioned  by  the  President.  [The  return  was  not 
found] 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  much  respect 
Your  obt.  and  Humble  Servant. 

Th.  Posey 
Gen.  John  Armstrong  Sect,  of  War 

P.  S.  The  Adjutant  General  informs  me  he  has  inclosed 
the  annual  return  of  the  militia  a  few  days  since. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  March  2nd  1814 

Har.  Pa.  99 

Sir 

I  had  the  honor  of  receiving  your  letter  of  the  13th  ult.  As 
a  general  principle  it  cannot  be  doubted  but  that  the  Govern- 
ment has  a  right  to  dispose  of  the  Officers  of  the  Army  as  they 
may  think  best  for  the  public  interest  because  (among  other  rea- 
sons) they  alone  can  be  acquainted  with  all  the  demands  made 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        631 

upon  them  by  that  interest.  The  utmost  therefore  that  either 
reason  or  economy  requires  of  them  is  to  advertise  the  ofBcer 
commanding  a  District  of  the  abstractions  which  pubhc  poHcy 
makes  necessary  from  his  command.  The  order  in  question 
was  a  notice  of  "this  sort"  and  of  course  strictly  an  observance 
of  military  usage.  Had  it  been  sent  through  you  to  General 
Howard,  the  objects  of  Government  might  have  been  hazarded 
by  the  delay  which  would  have  necessarily  attended  this  mode 
of  transmission.  The  fact  out  of  which  it  grew  is  that  Gen- 
eral Flournoy  had  sought  a  recall  from  New  Orleans  and  that 
in  casting  about  for  a  successor  General  Howard  was  selected. 
Major  General  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  March  3rd  1814 

Har.  Pa.  100 

Sir: 

Governor  Cass  and  some  of  the  members  of  Congress  from 
the  State  of  Ohio  have  suggested  as  part  of  the  arrangement 
to  be  made  with  the  Indian  tribes  at  the  ensuing  treaty — a 
commutation  of  land:  for  instance,  that  the  Wyandots,  Dela- 
wares  and  Shawonese  should  on  relinquishment  of  their  for- 
mer settlements  and  removal  to  the  country  between  the  Mis- 
sissippi and  Illinois  Rivers,  be  established  therein.  The  pol- 
icy of  separation  would,  in  theory  as  well  as  practice,  be 
useful.  So  long  as  their  settlements  and  ours  actually  touch 
each  other  collisions  are  to  be  feared.  The  policy  also  of  keep- 
ing our  own  line  of  settlements  unbroken,  is  obviously  sound. 
How  far  the  Indians  may  be  disposed  to  meet  us  on  these 
grounds  is  questionable.  On  this  point  make  the  necessary 
inquiries  and  communicate  the  result  in  time  to  shape  the 
instructions  which  it  may  be  proper  to  give  on  the  subject. 

Your  letter  stating  that  you  had  deputed  ]\Ir.  [John]  John- 
ston to  hold  a  preliminary  meeting  with  the  Indians  has  been 
received. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 

Elliott  to  Stewart 

,   •  '  Delaware  March  4th,  1814 

Sir, 

I  have  this  day  had  a  meeting  with  the  Indians,  on  the  sub- 


632  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ject  of  carrying  a  quantity  of  ammunition  to  their  friends 
within  the  American  Territory.  The  result  is  that  they  re- 
fuse to  proceed  with  the  ammunition  on  the  ground  that  our 
regular  troops  do  not  advance  further  than  the  Settlements 
on  the  River  Thames,  and  of  course  would  be  of  no  use  in  pro- 
tecting their  friends,  in  the  enemies  country.  The  Americans 
might  hear  of  these  supplies  being  sent  to  the  Indians  &  the 
consequence  would  be  fatal,  perhaps  to  their  whole  Tribes. 
They  would  therefore  rather  suffer  for  want  of  ammunition, 
than  endanger  themselves  or  their  families. 

I  am  &c. 

M.  Elliott 
To  Col.  Alexander  Stewart 


Holmes  TO  Butler 

Fort  Covington,  March  10th,  1814 

HistoHcal  Register  IV,  i-9 

Sir, 

I  have  the  honor  to  submit  in  writing,  that  the  expedition 
sent  under  my  command  against  the  enemy's  posts  by  your 
special  orders  of  the  21st  ultimo,  had  the  good  fortune  on  the 
4th  instant  to  meet  and  subdue  a  force  double  its  own,  fresh 
from  the  barracks,  and  led  by  a  distinguished  officer. 

I  had  been  compelled  to  leave  the  artillery,  by  the  invincible 
difficulties  of  the  route  from  Point  au  Plait  to  the  Round  0. 
No  wheel  carriage  of  any  kind  had  ever  attempted  it  before, 
and  none  will  ever  pass  it  until  the  brush  and  fallen  timber 
are  cut  away,  and  the  swamp  causewayed  or  drained.  After 
joining  captain  [William]  Gill,  I  began  the  march  for  Fort 
Talbot,  but  was  soon  convinced  of  its  being  impossible  to  reach 
the  post,  in  time  to  secure  any  foi'ce  which  might  be  there  or 
adjacent.  This  conviction,  united  with  the  information  that 
the  enemy  had  a  force  at  Delaware  upon  the  Thames,  that  I 
should  be  expected  at  Fort  Talbot,  and  consequently  that  a 
previous  descent  upon  Delaware  might  deceive  the  foe,  and 
lead  him  to  expose  me  some  point  in  defending  others  he 
might  think  menaced,  and  coupled  with  the  possibility  that 
he.'U'ing  of  captain  Gill's  march  to  the  Round  0,  by  M'Gregor's 
militia,  whom  he  had  pursued,  a  detachment  had  descended 
the  Thames  to  intercept  him,  determined  me  to  exercise  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        633 

discretion  allowed  by  the  order,  and  to  strike  at  once  upon 
the  river. 

On  the  3d  instant,  when  only  fifteen  miles  from  Delaware, 
we  received  intelligence  that  the  enemy  had  left  Delaware 
with  the  intention  of  descending  the  river,  and  that  we  should 
probably  meet  him  in  one  hour;  that  his  force  consisted  of  a 
light  company  from  the  Royal  Scots,  mustering  for  duty  120 
men;  a  light  company  from  the  89th  regiment  of  foot  (effi- 
ciency not  Imown)  ;  Caldwell's  Indian  and  M'Gregor's  mili- 
tia: amounting  all  to  about  300  men.  My  command  originally 
had  not  exceeded  180  rank  and  file.  Hunger,  cold,  and  fatigue 
had  brought  on  disease,  and  though  none  died,  all  were  ex- 
ceedingly depressed,  and  sixteen  had  been  ordered  home  as 
unable  to  continue  the  march.  I  resolved  therefore  to  avoid 
the  conflict  on  equal  gi'ounds,  and  immediately  retreated  five 
miles  for  the  sake  of  a  good  position,  on  the  western  bank  of 
the  Twenty  Mile  Creek,  leaving  Captain  Gill  with  twenty 
rangers  to  cover  the  rear,  and  to  watch  the  enemy's  motions. 
We  had  encamped  but  a  few  minutes,  when  captain  Gill  joined, 
after  exchanging  shots  with  the  enemy's  advance,  in  vainly 
attempting  to  reconnoitre  his  force.  The  Twenty  Mile  Creek 
runs  from  north  to  south,  through  a  deep  and  wide  ravine, 
and  of  course,  is  flanked  east  and  west  by  lofty  heights.  My 
camp  was  formed  upon  the  western  heights.  The  enemy's 
upon  the  opposite.  During  the  night  of  the  3d  all  was  quiet. 
At  sun-rise  on  the  4th,  the  enemy  appeared  thinly  upon  the 
opposite  hights,  fired  upon  us  without  effect,  and  vanished. 
After  waiting  some  time  for  their  re-appearance  lieutenant 
[John]  Knox  of  the  rangers  was  sent  to  reconnoitre.  On  his 
return,  he  reported  that  the  enemy  had  retreated  Avith  the 
utmost  precipitation,  leaving  his  baggage  scattered  upon  the 
road,  and  that  his  trail  and  fires  made  him  out  not  more  than 
seventy  men.  Tvlortified  at  the  supposition  of  having  retro- 
graded from  this  diminutive  force,  I  instantly  commenced 
the  pursuit,  with  the  design  of  attacking  Delaware  before 
the  opening  of  another  day.  We  had  not  however  proceeded 
beyond  five  miles,  when  captain  [Stephen]  Lee,  commanding 
the  advance,  discovered  the  enemy  in  considerable  force,  ar- 
ranging himself  for  battle.  The  symptons  of  fear  and  flight 
were  now  easily  traced  to  the  purpose  of  seducing  me  from  the 
heights,  and  so  far  the  plan  succeeded.    But  the  enemy  failed 

43—22664 


634  INDIANA  HISTOPwICAL  COLLECTIONS 

,  to  improve  the  advantage.  If  he  had  thrown  his  chief  force 
across  the  ravine  above  the  road,  and  occupied  our  camp  when 
rehnquished,  thus  obstructing  my  communication  to  the  rear, 
I  should  have  been  driven  upon  Delaware  against  a  superior 
force,  since  found  to  be  stationed,  or  forced  to  take  the  wilder- 
ness for  Fort  Talbot,  without  forage  or  provisions.  Heaven 
averted  this  calamity.  We  soon  regained  the  position  at 
Twenty  Mile  Creek,  and  though  the  rangers  were  greatly  dis- 
heartened by  the  retreat,  and  to  a  man  insisted  upon  not 
fighting  the  enemy,  we  decided  an  exhibit  to  that  spot  the 
:  scene  of  death  or  victory. 

I  was  induced  to  adopt  the  order  of  the  hollow  square,  to 
prevent  the  necessity  of  evolution,  which  I  knew  all  the  troops 
-  were  incompetent  to  perform  in  action.    The  detachments  of 
the  24th  and  28th  infantry  occupied  the  brow  of  the  heights. 
The  detachment  from  the  garrison  of  Detroit  formed  the 
north  front  of  the  square,  the  rangers  the  west,  and  the  mili- 
tia the  south.     Our  houses  and  baggage  stood  in  the  centre. 
The  enemy  threw  his  militia  and  Indians  across  the  ravine 
above  the  road,  and  commenced  the  action  with  savage  yells 
and  bugles  sounding  from  the  north,  west,  and  south.     His 
regulars  at  the  same  time  charged  dov/n  the  road  from  the 
opposite   heights,   crossed   the   bridge,   and   charged   up  the 
heights  we  occupied  within  twenty  steps  of  the  American 
line,  and  against  the  most  destructive  fire.    But  his  front  sec- 
tion was  shot  to  pieces.     Those  who  followed  were  much 
thinned  and  wounded.    His  officers  were  soon  cut  down,  and 
his  antagonists  continued  to  evince  a  degree  of  animation  that 
be-spoke  at  once  their  boldness  and  security.     He  therefore 
abandoned  the  charge,  and  toolc  cover  in  the  woods  at  diffused 
order,  between  fifteen,  twenty,  and  thirty  paces  of  our  line, 
and  placed  all  hope  upon  his  ammunition. 

Our  regulars,  being  uncovered,  were  ordered  to  kneel  that 
the  brow  of  the  heights  might  partly  screen  them  from  the 
enemy's  view.  The  firing  increased  on  both  sides  with  great 
vivacity.  But  the  crisis  was  over.  I  knew  the  enemy  dared 
not  uncover,  and  of  course  no  second  charge  would  be  at- 
tempted. On  the  north,  west,  and  south  front  the  firing  had 
been  sustained  with  much  coolness,  and  with  considerable  loss 
to  the  foe.  Our  troops  on  those  fronts  being  protected  by 
logs,  hastily  thrown  together,  and  the  enemy  not  charging 


'  ■"       HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        635 

both  the  rifle  and  the  musket  were  aimed  at  leisure,  perhaps 
always  told.  The  enemj^  at  last  became  persuaded  that  Pi'ov- 
idence  had  sealed  the  fortune  of  the  day.  His  cover  on  the 
east  front  was  insufficient;  for  as  he  had  charged  in  column 
of  sections,  and  therefore,  when  dispersing  on  either  side  of 
the  road,  was  unable  to  extend  his  flanks  and  as  our  regulars 
presented  an  extended  front  from  the  beginning,  it  is  evident 
that  a  common  sized  tree  could  not  protect  even  one  man, 
much  less  the  squads  that  often  stood  and  breathed  their  last 
together;  and  yet  upon  his  regulars  the  enemy  relied  for  vic- 
tory. In  concert  therefore,  and  favored  by  the  shades  of  twi- 
light, he  commenced  a  general  retreat  after  one  hour's  close 
and  gallant  conflict. 

I  did  not  pursue,  for  the  following  reasons.  1.  We  had  tri- 
umphed against  numbers  and  discipline,  and  were  therefore 
under  no  obligation  of  honour  to  incur  additional  hazard.  2. 
In  these  requisites  (numbers  and  discipline)  the  enemy  were 
still  superior,  and  the  night  would  have  insured  success  to  an 
ambuscade.  3.  The  enemy's  bugle  sounded  the  close  upon  the 
opposite  heights.  If  then  we  had  pursued,  we  must  have 
passed  over  to  him  as  he  did  to  us,  because  the  creek  could 
be  passed  on  horseback  at  no  other  point,  and  tlie  troops  being- 
fatigued  and  frost  bitten,  and  their  shoes  cut  to  pieces  by  the 
frozen  ground,  it  v/as  not  possible  to  pursue  on  foot.  It  fol- 
lows, that  the  attempt  to  pursue  would  have  given  the  enemy 
the  same  advantage  that  produced  the  defeat. 

Our  loss  in  killed  and  wounded  amounted  to  a  non-commis- 
sioned oflicer  and  six  privates;  but  the  blood  of  between  80 
and  90  brave  Englishmen,  and  among  the  4  officers,  avenged 
their  fall.  The  commander,  captain  Barden  of  the  89th,  is 
supposed  to  have  been  killed  at  an  early  stage  of  the  contest. 
The  whole  American  force  in  action  consisted  of  one  hundred 
and  fifty  rank  and  file,  of  whom  seventy  were  militia,  includ- 
ing the  rangers.  The  enemy's  regulars  alone  were  from  one 
hundred  and  fifty  to  one  hundred  and  eighty  strong,  and  his 
militia  and  Indians  fought  upon  three  fronts  of  our  square. 

I  am  much  indebted  to  all  my  regular  officers,  and  trust 
their  names  will  be  mentioned  to  the  army  and  to  the  war 
department.  Without  intending  a  discrimination  it  must  be 
acknowledged  that  the  exertions  of  lieutenant  [John  C] 
Kouns  and  [William]  Henry  of  the  28th  and  [Hezekiah]  Jack- 


636  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

son  and  [John  C]  Potter  of  the  24th  were  most  conspicuous, 
because  fortune  had  opposed  them  to  the  main  strength  of  the 
foe.  Captain  Lee  of  the  Michigan  dragoons  was  of  great  as- 
sistance before  the  action  at  the  head  of  the  advance  and  spies, 
and  my  warmest  thanks  are  due  to  acting  saiHng-master  Darl- 
ing of  the  United  States  schooner  Somers,  who  had  volun- 
teered to  command  the  artillery.  Ensign  Heard  of  the  28th, 
acting  as  volunteer  adjutant,  merits  my  acknowledgments,  and 
especially  for  his  zeal  in  defending  my  opinion  against  a  final 
retreat,  when  others  permitted  their  hopes  to  sink  beneath  the 
pressure  of  the  moment. 

The  enemy's  wounded  and  prisoners  were  treated  with  the 
utmost  humanity.  Though  some  of  our  men  were  marching 
in  their  stocking  feet,  they  were  not  permitted  to  take  a  shoe 
even  from  the  dead. 

I  have  the  honor,  to  be  with  perfect  respect,  sir,  your  most 
obedient  servant, 

(Signed)  A.  H.  Holmes 

Cwptain  2Uth  Infantry 

Lieutenant-Colonel  [Robert]  Butler,  commanding  the  Tcrn- 
tory  of  Michigan  mid  its  dependencies 

Harrison  to  Secretary  of  War 

H.  Q.  Cincinnati,  March  22nd,  1814 
'         ■     ,  McAfee,  TJie  Late  War,  ^3-^7 

Sir, 

The  tribes  of  Indians  upon  this  frontier  and  east  of  the  Mis- 
sissippi, with  whom  the  U.  S.  have  been  connected  by  treaty, 
are  the  Wyandots,  Delawares,  Shawanoese,  Miamies,  Potawat- 
amies,  Ottawas,  Chippewas,  Piankasshaws,  Kaskaskias,  and 
Sacs.  All  but  the  two  last  were  in  the  confenderacy,  which 
carried  on  the  former  Indian  war  against  the  United  States, 
that  was  terminated  by  the  peace  of  Greenville.  The  Kaskas- 
kias were  parties  to  the  treaty,  but  they  had  not  been  in  the 
war.  The  Wyandots  are  admitted  by  the  others  to  be  the 
leading  tribe.  They  hold  the  grand  calumet,  which  unites 
them  and  kindles  the  council  fire.  This  tribe  is  nearly  equally 
divided  between  the  Crane  at  Sandusky,  who  is  the  grand 
Sachem  of  the  nation,  and  Wal-in-the-Water  at  Brownstown, 
near  Detroit.  They  claim  the  lands,  bounded  by  the  settle- 
ments of  this  state,  southwardly  and  eastwardly ;  and  by  lake 


.  ■  :.  -      HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        637 

Erie,  the  Miami  river,  and  the  claim  of  the  Shawanoeso  upon 
the  Auglaize,  a  branch  of  the  latter.  They  also  claim  the 
lands  they  live  on  near  Detroit,  but  I  am  ignorant  to  what 
extent. 

The  Wyandots  of  Sandusky  have  adhered  to  us  through  the 
war.  Their  chief,  the  Crane,  is  a  venerable,  intelligent,  and 
upright  man.  Within  the  tract  of  land  claimed  by  the  Wyan- 
dots a  number  of  Senecas  are  settled.  They  broke  off  from 
their  own  tribe  six  or  eight  years  ago,  but  receive  a  part  of 
the  annuity  granted  that  tribe  by  the  U.  States,  by  sending 
a  deputation  for  it  to  Buffaloe.  The  claim  of  the  Wyandots 
to  the  lands  they  occupy,  is  not  disputed,  that  I  know  of  by  any 
other  tribe.  Their  residence  on  it  however,  is  not  of  long 
standing,  and  the  country  was  certainly  once  the  property  of 
the  Miamies. 

Passing  westwardly  from  the  Wyandots,  we  meet  with  the 
Shawonese  settlement  at  Stony  creek,  a  branch  of  the  big 
Miami,  and  at  Wapockaunata  on  the  Auglaize.  These  set- 
tlements were  made  immediately  after  the  treaty  of  Green- 
ville, and  with  the  consent  of  the  Miamies,  whom  I  consider 
the  real  owners  of  those  lands.  The  chiefs  of  this  band  of 
Shawanoese,  Blackhoof,  Wolf,  and  Lewis,  are  attached  to  us 
from  principle  as  well  as  interest — they  are  honest  men. 

The  Miamies  have  their  principal  settlements  at  the  forks 
of  the  Wabash,  thirty  miles  from  fort  Wayne;  and  at  Missis- 
sineway,  thirty  miles  lower  down.  A  band  of  them  under 
the  name  of  weas,  have  resided  on  the  Wabash  sixty  miles 
above  Vincennes ;  and  another  under  the  Turtle  on  Eel  river, 
a  branch  of  the  Wabash,  twenty  miles  northwest  of  fort 
Wayne.  By  an  artifice  of  the  Little  Turtle  these  three  bands 
were  passed  on  general  Wayne  as  distinct  tribes,  and  an  an- 
nuity was  granted  to  each.  The  Eel  river  and  Weas  however 
to  this  day  call  themselves  Miamies,  and  are  recognized  as 
such  by  the  Mississineway  band.  The  Miamies,  Maumees,  or 
Tewicktovies,  are  the  undoubted  proprietors  of  all  that  beau- 
tiful country  which  is  watered  by  the  Wabash  and  its  branches ; 
and  there  is  as  little  doubt,  that  their  claim  extended  at  least 
as  far  east  as  the  Scioto.  They  have  no  tradition  of  removing 
from  any  other  quarter  of  the  country ;  where  as  all  the  neigh- 
boring tribes,  the  Piankishaws,  excepted,  who  are  a  branch 
of  the  Miamies,  are  either  intruders  upon  them,  or  have  been 


638  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

permitted  to  settle  in  their  country.  The  Wyandots  emigi'ated 
first  from  lake  Ontario,  and  subsequently  from  lake  Huron — 
the  Delawares,  from,  Pennsylvania  and  i\Iaryland — the  Shaw- 
anoese  from  Georgia — the  Kickapoos  and  Potawatamios  from 
the  country  between  lake  IMichigan  and  the  Mississippi — and 
the  Ottawas  and  Chipewas  from  the  penninsula  formed  by 
the  lakes  IMichigan,  Huron,  and  St.  Clair,  and  the  streight 
connecting  the  latter  with  Erie.  The  claims  of  the  Miamies 
were  bounded  on  the  north  and  west  by  those  of  the  Illinois 
confederacy,  consisting  originally  of  five  tribes,  called  Kas- 
kaskias,  Cahokias,  Peorians,  IMichiganians,  and  Temarois, 
speaking  the  Miami  language,  and  no  doubt  branches  of  that 
nation. 

When  I  was  first  appointed  governor  of  Indiana  Territory, 
these  once  pov*'erful  tribes  were  reduced  to  about  thirty  war- 
riors, of  whom  twenty-five  were  Kaskaskias,  four  Peorians, 
and  a  single  Michiganian.  There  was  an  individual  lately 
alive  at  St.  Louis,  who  saw  the  enumeration  made  of  them 
by  the  Jesuits  in  the  year  1745,  making  the  number  of  war- 
riors four  thousand.  A  furious  war  between  them  and  the 
Sacs  and  Kickapoos,  reduced  them  to  that  miserable  remnant, 
which  had  taken  refuge  amongst  the  white  people  of  the  towns 
of  Kaskaskia  and  St.  Genevieve.  The  Kickapoos  had  fixed 
their  principal  village  at  Peoria,  upon  the  south  bank  of  the 
Illinois  river,  whilst  the  Sacs  remained  masters  of  the  coun- 
try to  the  north. 

During  the  war  of  our  revolution,  the  Miamies  had  invited 
the  Elickapoos  into  their  country  to  assist  them  against  the 
whites,  and  a  considerable  village  was  formed  by  that  tribe 
on  the  Vermillion  river  near  its  junction  with  the  Wabash. 
After  the  treaty  of  Greenville,  the  Delawares  had  with  the 
approbation  of  the  INIi amies,  removed  from  the  mouth  of  the 
Auglaize  to  the  head  waters  of  White  river,  a  large  branch 
of  the  Wabash  and  the  Potawatamies  without  their  consent 
had  formed  two  villages  upon  the  latter  river,  one  at  Tippe- 
canoe, and  the  other  at  Chippoy  twentj^-five  miles  below. 

The  Piankishaws  lived  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Vinconnes, 
which  was  their  ancient  village,  and  claimed  the  lands  to  the 
mouth  of  the  Wabash,  and  to  the  north  and  west  as  far  as  the 
Kaskaskians  claimed.  Such  was  the  situation  of  the  tribes, 
when  I  received  the  instructions  of  President  Jefi"ersou  shortly 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        639 

after  his  first  election,  to  make  efforts  for  extinguishing  the 
Indian  claims  upon  the  Ohio,  below  the  mouth  of  the  Ken- 
tucky river,  and  to  such  other  tracts  as  were  necessary  to 
connect  and  consolidate  our  settlements.  It  was  at  once  de- 
termined, that  the  community  of  interests  in  the  lands  amongst 
the  Indian  tribes,  which  seemed  to  be  recogiiized  by  the  treaty 
of  Greenville,  should  be  objected  to;  and  that  each  individual 
tribe  should  be  protected  in  every  claim  that  should  appear 
to  be  founded  in  reason  and  justice.  But  it  was  also  deter- 
mined, that  as  a  measure  of  policy  and  liberality,  such  tribes 
as  lived  upon  any  tract  of  land  which  it  would  be  desirable 
to  purchase,  should  receive  a  portion  of  the  compensation,  al- 
though the  title  might  be  exclusively  in  another  tribe.  Upon 
this  principle  the  Delawares,  Shawanoese,  Potawatamies,  and 
Kickapoos  were  admitted  as  parties  to  several  of  the  treaties. 
Care  was  taken  however,  to  place  the  title  to  such  tracts  as  it 
might  be  desirable  to  purchase  hereafter,  upon  a  footing  that 
would  facilitate  the  procuring  of  them,  by  getting  the  tribes 
who  had  no  claim  themselves,  and  who  might  probably  inter- 
fere, to  recognize  the  titles  of  those  who  were  ascertained  to 
possess  them. 

This  was  particularly  the  case  with  regard  to  the  lands  wa- 
tered by  the  Wabash,  which  were  declared  to  be  the  property 
of  the  Miamies,  with  the  exception  of  the  tract  occupied  by 
the  Delawares  on  White  river,  which  was  to  be  considered  the 
joint  property  of  them  and  the  ]\Iiamies,  This  arrangement 
was  ver}^  much  disliked  by  Tecumseh,  and  the  banditti  that 
he  had  assembled  at  Tippecanoe.  He  complained  loudly,  as 
well  of  the  sales  that  had  been  made,  as  of  the  principle  of 
considering  a  particular  tribe  as  the  exclusive  proprietors  of 
any  part  of  the  country,  which  he  said  the  Great  Spirit  had 
given  to  all  his  red  children.  Besides  the  disaffected  amongst 
the  neighboring  tribes,  he  had  brought  together  a  considera- 
ble number  of  Winebagoes  and  Folsovoins  from  the  neighbor- 
hood of  Green  Bay,  Sacs  from  the  IMississippi,  and  some  Ot- 
tawas  and  Chipewas  from  Abercrosh  on  Lake  Llichigan.  These 
people  were  better  pleased  with  the  climate  and  country  of 
the  Wabash,  than  with  that  they  had  left. 

The  Miamies,  resisted  the  pretensions  of  Tecumseli  and  his 
followers  for  some  time,  but  a  system  of  terror  was  adopted, 
and  the  young  men  were  seduced  by  eternally  placing  before 


640  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

them  a  picture  of  labor,  and  restriction  as  to  hunting,  to  which 
the  system  adopted  inevitably  would  lead.  The  Potawatamies 
and  other  tribes  inhabiting  the  Illinois  river  and  south  of  lake 
Michigan,  had  been  for  a  long  time  approaching  gradually 
towards  the  Wabash.  Their  country,  which  was  never  abun- 
dantly stocked  with  game,  was  almost  exhausted  of  it.  The 
fertile  regions  of  the  Wabash  still  afforded  it.  It  was  repre- 
sented, that  the  progressive  settlements  of  the  whites  upon 
the  that  river  would  soon  deprive  them  of  their  only  resource 
and  indeed  would  force  the  Indians  of  that  river  upon  them, 
who  were  already  half  starved. 

It  is  a  fact,  that  for  many  years  the  current  of  emigration, 
as  to  the  tribes  east  of  the  Mississippi,  has  been  from  north 
to  south.  This  is  owing  to  two  causes;  the  diminution  of 
those  animals  from  which  the  Indians  procure  their  support; 
and  the  pressure  of  the  two  great  tribes,  the  Chippewas  and 
Sioux  to  the  north  and  west.  So  long  ago  as  the  treaty  of 
Greenville,  the  Potawatamies  gave  notice  to  the  Miamies,  that 
they  intended  to  settle  upon  the  Wabash.  They  made  no  pre- 
tensions to  the  countrj^,  and  their  only  excuse  for  the  intended 
aggression,  was  that  "they  were  tired  of  eating  fish,  and 
wanted  meat."  It  has  been  already  observed  that  the  Sacs 
had  extended  themselves  to  the  Illinois  river,  and  that  the  set- 
tlement of  the  Kickapoos  at  the  Peorias  was  of  modern  date. 
Previously  to  the  commencement  of  the  present  war,  a  con- 
siderable number  had  joined  their  brethren  upon  the  Wabash. 
The  Tawas  from  the  Des  Moins  river  have  twice  made  at- 
tempts to  get  a  footing  here. 

From  these  facts  it  will  be  seen,  that  it  will  be  nearly  im- 
possible to  get  the  Indians  south  of  the  Wabash  to  go  beyond 
the  Illinois  river.  The  subject  of  providing  an  outlet  to  such 
of  the  tribes  as  it  might  be  desirable  to  remove,  has  been  un- 
der consideration  for  many  years.  There  is  but  one.  It  was 
long  since  discovered  by  the  Indians  themselves,  and  but  for 
the  humane  policy  which  has  been  pursued  by  our  government, 
the  Delawares,  Kickapoos  and  Shawanoese  would  long  since 
have  been  out  of  our  way.  The  country  claimed  by  the  Osages 
abounds  with  everything  that  is  desirable  to  a  savage.  The 
Indians  of  the  tribes  above  mentioned  have  occasionally  in- 
truded upon  them — a  war  was  the  consequence,  which  would 
soon  have  given  a  sufficient  opening  for  emigration.    But  our 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        641 

government  interfered  and  obliged  the  hostile  tribes  to  make 
peace. 

I  was  afterward  instructed  to  endeavour  to  get  the  Dela- 
wares  to  join  that  part  of  their  tribe,  which  is  settled  on  the 
west  side  of  the  Mississippi  near  Cape  Girardeau.  The  at- 
tempt was  unsuccessful  at  the  time.  I  have  no  doubt  how- 
ever, that  they  could  be  prevailed  on  to  move;  but  it  ought 
not  in  my  opinion  to  be  attempted  in  a  general  council  of  the 
tribes. 

The  question  of  the  title  to  the  lands  south  of  the  Wabash 
has  been  thoroughly  examined:  every  opportunity  was  af- 
forded to  Tecumseh  and  his  party  to  exhibit  their  pretensions, 
and  they  were  found  to  rest  upon  no  other  basis,  than  that 
of  their  being  the  common  property  of  all  the  Indians.  The 
Potawatamies  and  Kickapoos  have  unequivocally  acknowl- 
edged the  Miami  and  Delaware  title.  The  latter  as  I  before 
observed  can  I  think  be  induced  to  remove.  It  may  take  a 
year  or  eighteen  months  to  effect  it.  The  Miamies  will  not 
be  in  our  way.  They  are  a  poor,  miserable,  drunken  set,  di- 
minishing every  year.  Becoming  too  lazy  to  hunt,  they  feel 
the  advantage  of  their  annuity.  The  fear  of  the  other  In- 
dians has  alone  prevented  them  from  selling  their  whole  claim 
to  the  United  States;  and  as  soon  as  there  is  peace,  or  the 
British  can  no  longer  intrigue,  they  will  sell.  I  know  what 
inducements  can  be  held  out  to  the  Wyandots  to  remove ;  they 
were  not  formerly  under  my  superintendence,  but  I  am  per- 
suaded that  a  general  council  would  not  be  the  place  to  at- 
tempt it. 

I  have  the  honor,  &c.  &c.  „,,,  tt  tt.^^    ^,. 

'  Wm.  H.  Harrison 

Glaus  to  Loring 

York  28th  March  1814 

Mich.  Hist,  and  Pion.  Soc.  Pub.  XV,  525 

Sir 

I  received  a  letter  yesterday  from  Colonel  [Matthev^']  Elliott 
of  the  25th  Instant.  I  herewith  transmit  for  the  information 
of  His  Honor  Lieut  General  Drummond.  I  have  directed 
Colonel  Elliott  to  send  off  the  runners  immediately  to  Mar- 
pock  &  the  Potawatamies. 

Col.  Elliott  ought  to  know  the  strength  of  the  Nations  that 
is  said  to  have  joined  the  Enemy,  but  I  am  at  a  loss  to  know 


642  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

where  they  can  have  such  a  force.  I  know  the  Hurons  are 
very  weak  &  most  of  the  Shawanese  moved  some  years  ago 
to  the  West  of  the  Mississippi,  the  Delawarcs  whose  place  of 
residence  is  on  the  Eel  River  near  the  head  of  the  Wabashe  are 
the  strongest  Nation,  but  the  distance  is  so  great  that  I  should 
doubt  very  much  their  coming  forward  with  the  enemy.  The 
want  of  Wampum  is  very  great  as  no  business  can  be  done 
with  Indians  without  it,  a  Requisition  was  send  down  more 
than  twelve  months  ago  for  that  article,  but  none  was  re- 
ceived. 

I  also  put  under  cover  a  letter  from  Major  Givins  of  the 
23d  instant  addressed  to  me  on  the  subject  of  Rations  being 
issued  to  the  families  of  officers  of  the  Indian  Department.  I 
beg  leave  to  submit  the  same  to  His  Honor  the  president  hop- 
ing that  the  same  indulgence  may  be  granted  to  the  Indian 
Department  that  this  order  gives  to  the  Staff  &  Army  in  the 
Country. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  Sir 
.  Your  most  obedient  humble  Servant. 

•     W.  Claus,  D.  S.  G. 
To  Capt.  Robert  R.  Loring 

■  ;_"     ■  :•  Posey  Convening  Assembly 

April  4,  1814 

,  Western  Sun,  Apr.  16,  18H 

■         -  PROCLAMATION 

WHEREAS,  congress  has  passed  an  act  to  establish  the 
mode  of  laying  off  the  territory  of  Indiana  into  districts  for 
the  election  of  its  members  of  the  legislative  council ; 

Now  be  it  known  to  all  concerned  that  I,  Thomas  Posey, 
governor  and  commander  in  chief  in  and  over  the  Indiana 
territory,  by  virtue  of  the  above  recited  act,  do  issue  this  my 
proclamation,  requiring  that  the  members  of  the  house  of  rep- 
resentatives of  said  territory  do  convene  at  Corydon,  the  seat 
of  government,  on  Wednesday,  the  first  day  of  June'  ensuing, 
then  and  there  to  take  up  the  subject  of  the  aforesaid  act, 
agreeable  to  the  intent  and  meaning  thereof. 

Given  under  my  hand  and  seal  at  the  town  of  JefTersonville, 
this  4th  day  of  April,  in  the  year  of  our  Lord,  1814. 

^'  ■■  :.  Th:  Posey 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        643 

.    ^     '  ,  John  Johnston  to  Huffman 

PiQUA,  Ohio  April  12,  1814 

Har.  Pa.  285,  286 

Dear  Sir  : 

Agreeabl}^  to  my  promise  made  to  you  when  last  at  this 
place,  I  now  communicate  the  result  of  my  enquiries  after 
your  chiled.  I  am  sorry  indeed  that  the  prospect  of  getting 
him  is  so  remote,  had  he  remained  in  the  custody  of  the  In- 
dians I  would  have  had  the  happiness  of  shortly  restoring  him 
to  you.     [See  Mar.  24  and  Apr.  1,  1813,  above] 

The  following  is  a  true  copy  of  a  certificate  which  I  yester. 
day  received  from  Saint  Joseph  of  Lake  Michigan  relative  tc 
my  inquiries : 

We  do  hereby  certify  that  we  are  known  to  a  delivery 
made  unto  Captain  Charles  Roberts  in  the  service  of  his 
Britance  Majesty  commanding  at  the  Island  of  Mickel- 
imackinac  by  Joseph  Bailly  a  British  Trader  from  the 
River  Saint  Joseph  of  a  Prisoner  Boy  named  Peter, 
(the  surname  unknown  to  us),  about  six  years  old,  fair 
.'.  complexion,  and  sandy  hair  taken  at  the  River  Ohio,  by 

Saw  Omock  or  the  yellow  Beaver  in  the  month  of  march 
1813. 

(signed)   John  W.  Burn^^tte 
(signed)  Antone  Quitmot 

dated  mouth  of  the  River  Saint  Joseph  March  20,  1814 

Thus  you  see  now  it  is  out  of  my  power  to  take  any  farther 
step  for  the  recovery  of  your  child  he  being  now  in  the  pos- 
session of  the  British,  it  is  possible  that  Capt.  Roberts  motive 
in  taking  the  child  was  a  good  one,  and  that  he  may  intend 
to  have  him  restored  to  his  people. 

I  have  thought  that  the  best  course  to  pursue  under  existing 
circumstances  as  Mackinac  will  probably  be  abandoned  by  the 
English  this  spring  would  be  for  you  to  apply  to  M.  [Jona- 
than] Jennings  the  delegate  from  your  Teriitory,  or  to  Gov- 
ernor Posey,  deliver  this  letter,  and  ask  them  to  apply  to  the 
secretary  of  War,  forwarding  this  letter  at  the  same  time  to 
him,  and  procure  the  interference  of  the  Government  in  your 
behalf,  the  proper  course  in  my  opinion  would  be  to  instruct 
the  commanding  general  near  the  Head  of  Lake  Ontario  or 
on  the  Niagara  Strait  to  apply  to  the  British  General  com- 


644  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

manding  in  that  quarter,  for  the  release  of  your  son.  Capt. 
Roberts  will  be  somewhere  in  that  country  you  ought  to  for- 
ward an  accurate  description  of  your  son  and  this  letter  should 
accompany  the  same  to  the  War  office.  I  have  no  doubt  small 
as  the  case  is  but  the  head  of  the  War  Department  will  in- 
terest himself  for  you.  The  presumption  is  if  Capt.  Roberts 
is  ordered  to  evacuate  the  Fort  at  IMacldnac  he  will  take  the 
boy  down  with  him. 

Wishing  that  you  may  soon  have  the  happiness  of  behold- 
ing your  child  again  I  remain  with  much  respect.  [See 
Ketcham's  narrative  end  of  1812  above] 

Your  most  Ob.  Servant 

John  Jopinston,  Indian  Agent 
Mr.  Benjamin  Huffman  near  Charleston  Clarke  County  In- 
diana Territory 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  21st.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  101,  102 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  aclmowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letters 
of  the  30th  ult.  and  10th  inst.  [Not  found]  Of  the  ti?»c  and 
place  of  holding  the  treaty,  you  will  yourself  decide — taking 
as  your  guides,  the  economy  in  the  one  case  that  may  be  found 
in  delajdng  it  until  green  forage  will  do  away  [with]  the  ne- 
cessity for  dry  and  the  public  safety  as  well  as  convenience  in 
the  other  of  holding  it  without  the  limits,  but  not  remote  from 
our  own  settlements.  The  President  approves  your  ideas  of 
not  mingling  with  the  question  of  peace  any  proposals  for 
either  buying  or  exchanging  lands. 

P.  S.     Capt.  [John]  O'Fallon  may  remain  with  you  as  your 
aid.     The  new  law  on  this  subject  permits  captains  to  be  taken 
as  the  aids  of  Major  Generals — Lieuts,  of  Brigadiers. 
Major  General  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

-  War  Department  April  22d,  1814 

:■    •     ^:  "'     '.:  ■      ,  •  Har.  Pa.  102,  10 It 

Sir: 

Mr.   [B.  G.]   Orr,  the  contractor,  has  presented  abstracts 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        645 

to  a  considerable  amount,  on  v/hich  monies  liave  been  advanced 
to  him  on  account.  Circumstances  however  induce  a  belief 
that  a  considerable  quantity  of  the  provision  represented  by 
these  abstracts  have  been  purchased  by  agents  of  your  appoint- 
ment and  with  public  money  advanced  to  them  here.  It  is 
important  that  the  fact  in  its  whole  extent  and  in  its  details 
should  be  ascertained  and  reported  to  this  Department  with  as 
little  delay  as  possible.  Permit  me  to  invite  your  attention  to 
this  subject  and  to  hope  from  it  the  means  of  judging  how 
far  we  have  been  and  shall  hereafter  be  safe  in  making  ad- 
vances to  this  contractor.  Part  of  the  information  must  come 
from  Detroit. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  23d  1814 

Har.  Pa.  103 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  inclose  a  letter  from  John  Mason  Esq. 
Comd.  Genl.  of  Prisoners  announcing  the  President's  inten- 
tion of  releasing  on  parole  the  British  Prisoners,  hostages 
in  Kentucky,  Pittsburg  &c.  The  object  of  this  note  is  to  ask 
you  to  assign  some  discreet  officer  of  our  army  to  accompany 
them  on  their  march  to  the  frontier;  to  indicate  the  route 
most  convenient  for  them  and  for  us,  and  the  place  at  which 
they  may  be  passed  over  to  a  post  of  the  enemy.  Can  they 
go  from  Erie?  or  must  they  go  to  Niagara?  The  form  of 
the  parole  to  be  signed  by  them  is  inclosed.  The  prisoners  at 
Pittsburg  ^nll  be  retained  until  those  coming  from  Kentucky 
will  arrive  there  (Pittsburg).  They  will  then  go  on  together. 
Genl.  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  2oth  181 1 

Hur.  Pa.  105 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  inclose  the  copy  of  an  order  [not  found] 
sent  directly  to  Detroit  for  the  purpose  of  saving  time  in  the 
arrangements  necessary  to  its  execution.     I  am  &c.  &c. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 


646  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  April  29tli  1814 

Har.  Pa.  106 

Sir: 

There  are  reasons  for  discontinuing  all  purchases  made  by 
commissaries.  You  will  therefore  be  pleased  to  give  your 
orders  accordingly  and  direct  supplies  to  be  made  by  the  con- 
tractor. The  commissaries  will  send  in  their  accounts  for 
purchases  made  by  them  and  accompany  them  by  the  neces- 
sary vouchers.  If  any  abstracts  for  provisions  of  their  pro- 
curing have  been  put  into  the  hands  of  IMr.  [B.  C]  Orr,  or  of 
any  Deputy  of  his,  the  amount  will  be  reported. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 

Harrison  to  Shelby 

Head  Quarters  Cincinnatti  May  2d  1814 
From  GovoiTior  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  B"  49 

Dear  Sir 

The  term  of  service  for  which  the  militia  at  Newport  were 
called  out  being  about  to  expire,  I  have  to  request  of  your  Ex- 
cellency to  have  detailed  from  the  militia  of  your  State,  one 
Captain,  one  first  Lieutenant  one  Second  Lieutenant  one  third 
Lieutenant  one  Ensign  five  Sergeants,  six  Corporals,  two 
musicians  and  ninety  privates  to  relieve  those  now  serving  at 
New  Port  as  a  guard  to  the  British  Prisoners. 

As  the  engagements  of  those  now  in  service  will  expire 
about  the  12  or  15  inst.,  it  is  important  that  the  new  detach- 
ment should  be  pushed  on  as  soon  as  possible. 

Until  this  day  I  had  supposed  that  I  had  written  to  you  be- 
fore on  this  subject  but  upon  examining  my  papers  I  find  that 
I  was  mistaken 

I  am  Dear  Sir  with  great  truth  your  devoted  friend 

WiLLM.  Henry  Harrison 
His  Excellency  Isaac  Shelby  Governor  of  Kenhi.chij 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort  5th  ]\lay  1814 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A"  185 

Dear  Sir: 

I  have  to  acknowledge  the  r(>ceipt  this  moment  of  your  fa- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        647 

voiir  of  the  2nd  inst.,  conformable  to  which  I  have  issued  my 
order  to  l\Iajor  General  Wm.  E.  Boswell  to  direct  the  organ- 
ization and  march  from  his  Division  as  speedily  as  possible 
a  detachment  of  militia  to  the  amount  of  your  requisition, 
for  the  purpose  of  guarding  the  British  prisoners  at  New  Port 
for  another  term  of  three  months. 

I  have  great  doubts  whether  they  can  arrive  in  time  to  re- 
lieve those  now  on  duty  before  the  expiration  of  their  term 
of  service,  but  everything  will  be  done  (that  can)  to  expedite 
their  march — As  those  now  on  duty  are  volunteers  and  it 
being  too  late  for  them  to  engage  in  any  business  for  the  pres- 
ent season  I  think  it  most  probable  that  they  will  cheerfully 
continue  another  tenor  of  ninety  days  or  at  least  until  they  are 
duly  relieved  by  the  new  guard — I  have  therefore  directed 
Genl.  Boswell  to  continue  as  many  of  the  detachment  now  on 
duty  as  will  consent  to  serve  other  ninety  days. 

With  sentiments  of  sincere  friendship  and  esteem  I  have 
the  honor  to  be 

your  most  obt.  ser\i:. 

Isaac  Shelby 
His  Excellency  Major  General  Wi^i.  Henry  Harrison 

Harrison  to  the  President 

> 

Head-quarters,  Cincinnati,  May  11,  1814 

The  Tippecanoe  Text  Book,  It9  [Niks'  Regisicr] 

Dear  Sir — I  have  this  day  forwarded  to  the  secretary  of  war 
my  resignation  of  the  commission  I  hold  in  the  army.  [Not 
found] 

This  measure  has  not  been  determined  on,  without  a  refer- 
ence to  all  the  reasons  which  should  influence  a  citizen,  who 
is  sincerely  attached  to  the  honor  and  interests  of  his  coun- 
try; who  believes  that  the  war  in  which  we  are  engaged  is 
just  and  necessary;  and  that  the  crisis  i-equircs  the  sacrifice  of 
every  private  consideration,  which  could  stand  in  opposition 
to  the  public  good.  But  after  giving  the  sul^ject  the  most 
mature  consideration,  I  am  perfectly  convinced,  that  my  re- 
tiring from  the  army  is  as  compatible  with  the  claims  of  pa- 
triotism, as  it  is  with  those  of  my  family,  and  a  proper  regard 
for  my  own  feelings  and  honor. 

I  have  no  other  motives  in  writing  this  letter  than  to  as- 


648  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

sure  j^ou,  that  my  resignation  was  not  produced  by  any  dimi- 
nution of  the  interests  I  have  always  taken  in  the  success  of 
your  administration,  or  of  respect  and  attachment  for  your 
person.  The  former  can  only  take  place,  when  I  forget  the 
republican  principles  in  which  I  have  been  educated ;  and  the 
latter,  when  I  shall  cease  to  regard  those  feelings,  which  must 
actuate  every  honest  man,  who  is  conscious  of  favors  that  it 
is  out  of  his  power  to  repaj'. 

Allow  me,  etc. 

Wm.  Henry  Harrison 
James  Madison  Esq.  President  of  U.  S. 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville,  May  12,  1814 

<^      .  Har.  Pa.  2S0 

For  the  better  government,  organization,  and  discipline  of 
the  Militia,  I  have  laid  off  the  Territory  into  three  Divisions, 
six  brigades,  and  twelve  regiments,  and  have  nominated  the 
Major  Generals  and  Brigadiers,  a  list  of  which  I  send  on  to  be 
commissioned  by  the  President  of  the  U.  S.  agreeably  to  the 
provisions  of  the  ordinance  for  regulating  the  Territories. 
Since  the  last  return  of  the  strength  of  the  Territory  there  has 
been  a  very  considerable  augmentation  and  increase  of  the 
militia  by  a  numerous  imigration,  and  in  the  last  return  there 
is  no  mention  of  the  Squadron  of  Cavalry,  or  of  four  Com- 
panies of  Rangers.  The  increase  of  iiraiiigration  which  is  very 
likely  to  continue  very  rapidly,  and  the  return  of  the  Rangers 
to  the  Militia  will  fully  justify  the  arrangement.  Not  having 
any  General  officers  appointed  in  the  Territory,  the  ^Militia 
have  been  subjected  to  be  commanded  by  General  officers  from 
the  state  of  Kentucky,  which  has  been  a  very  considerable 
matter  of  complaint  by  them.  I  have  arranged  the  officers  as 
they  are  to  take  rank.  For  ]\Iajor  Generals  I  nominate  Joseph 
Bartholomew  first  in  rank,  who  will  command  the  second  Di- 
vision. James  Dill  Second  in  rank  to  command  the  third  Di- 
vision, and  Robert  M.  Evans  third  in  rank  to  command  the 
first  Division.  For  Brigadier  Generals  first  Division,  first 
Brigade,  Hugh  McGary — 1st  Division  2nd  brigade  Walter  Wil- 
son— 2nd  division  3rd  Brigade  Joseph  Paddocks, — Second  Di- 
vision fourth  Brigade  William  IMcFarland — third  Division, 
fifth   Brigade   James   Noble — Third   Division   sixth   Brigade 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        619 

George  Hunt — The  commissions  for  the  Brigadiers  to  be  of 

the  same  date,  who  will  take  ranke  agreeably  to  former  services 

— The  arrangement  that  I  have  made  I  think  is  for  the  good 

of  the  Service.     There  can  be  no  doubt  but  it  will  have  the 

effect  to  produce  greater  attention  to  discipline  and  give  a 

considerable  degree  of  consequence  to  the  whole  body  of  I\Iili- 

tia. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  respect  your 

humble  Servant  ^      ^ 

Th.  Posey 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  May  14th  1814 

^  Har.  Pa.  107 

Sir: 

The  inclosed  copy  of  a  letter  to  the  President  will  sufficiently 
indicate  the  plan  of  campaign  for  the  ensuing  summer.  Orders 
have  been  given  by  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy  in  conformity 
thereto,  with  the  exception  that  two  armed  vessels  and  a  de- 
tachment of  Infantry,  will  prosecute  the  expedition  against 
Makinaw. 

It  will  be  for  you  to  direct  the  number  of  men  to  be  retained 
as  garrisons  for  Detroit  and  IMalden.  The  residue  will  be  held 
ready  for  the  movement  down  the  lake  to  Buffaloe  whither  will 
be  taken  also  all  that  can  be  moved  of  the  17th  19th  24th  and 
28th  regiments  of  infantry.  Brigadier  [Duncan]  I^IcArthur 
now  relieved  from  Court  IMartial  services  may  be  designated 
for  the  command  of  these  corps. 

The  adjutant  general  will  transmit  to  you  the  new  arrange- 
ment of  the  17th  and  19th  regiments. 

Accept  sir  the  assurance  of  my  great  respect. 
Maj.  Genl.  Harrison 

P.  S.  The  President  not  having  yet  determined  whether 
you  shall  act  with,  or  without  associates,  in  making  the  pro- 
posed treaty,  your  commission  and  instructions  for  that  pur- 
pose are  unavoidably  delayed. 

Shelby  to  the  President 
.;.  _^  Frankfort,  Llay  15,  1814 

T^  ^  Tippecanoe  Text  Bool:,  1^9  [Niks'  RenisteA 

Dear  Sir  :  ^       j 

The  interest  I  feel  for  the  prosperity  of  our  beloved  coun- 

44— 22GC4 


650  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

try,  at  all  times,  but  especially  in  the  common  cause  in  which 
she  is  at  present  engaged,  will,  I  flatter  myself,  be  a  sufficient 
apology  for  addressing  you  this  letter.  The  motives  which 
impel  me,  arise  from  considerations  of  public  good,  and  are 
unknown  to  the  gentleman  who  is  the  subject  of  the  letter. 

It  is  not  my  intention  to  eulogize  general  Harrison;  he  is 
not  in  need  of  that  aid,  his  merits  are  too  conspicuous  not  to 
be  observed ;  but  it  is  my  intention  to  express  to  you  with  can- 
dor, my  opinion  of  the  general,  founded  on  personal  observa- 
tion. 

A  rumor  has  reached  this  state,  which,  from  the  public 
prints,  appears  to  be  believed,  that  the  commanding  general  of 
the  northern  army  may  be  removed  from  that  command.  The 
circumstance  has  induced  me  to  reflect  on  the  subject,  and 
give  the  decided  preference  to  major-general  Harrison,  as  a 
successor.  Having  served  a  campaign  with  general  Harrison, 
by  which  I  have  been  enabled  to  form  some  opinion  of  his  mili- 
tary talents,  and  capacity  to  command,  I  feel  no  hesitation  to 
declare  to  you,  that  I  believe  him  to  be  one  of  the  first  militaiy 
characters  I  ever  knew;  and,  in  addition  to  this,  he  is  capable 
of  making  greater  personal  exertions  than  any  officer  -with 
whom  I  have  ever  sei'ved.  I  doubt  not  but  it  will  hereafter 
be  found,  that  the  command  of  the  north-western  armj-,  and 
the  various  duties  attached  to  it,  has  been  one  of  the  most 
arduous  and  difficult  tasks  ever  assigiied  to  any  officer  in  the 
United  States;  yet  he  surmounted  all. 

Impressed  with  the  conviction,  that  general  Harrison  is 
fully  adequate  to  the  command  of  tlie  northern  army,  should 
a  change  take  place  in  that  division,  I  have  ventured  thus 
freely  to  state  my  opinion  of  him,  that  he  is  a  consummate 
general,  and  would  fill  that  station  with  ability  and  honor; 
and  that  if,  on  the  other  hand,  any  arrangement  should  take 
place  in  the  war  department,  which  may  produce  the  resigna- 
tion of  general  Harrison,  it  will  be  a  misfortune  which  our 
country  will  have  cause  to  lament.  His  appointment  to  the 
command  of  the  northern  army  would  be  highly  gratifying  to 
the  wishes  of  the  western  people,  except  some  who  may,  per- 
haps, be  governed  by  sinister  views. 

I  confess  the  first  impressions  upon  my  mind,  when  in- 
formed of  the  defeat  of  colonel  [William]  Dudley's  regiment, 
on  the  5th  of  May  last,  were  unfavorable  to  general  Harrison's 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        651 

plans;  but  on  correct  information,  and  a  knowledge  of  his 
whole  plans,  I  have  no  doubt  but  they  were  well  concerted, 
and  might,  with  certainty,  have  been  executed  had  his  orders 
been  strictly  obeyed.  I  mention  this  subject  because  ]Mr.  H. 
Clay  informed  me  that  he  had  shown  you  my  letter,  stating 
the  impressions  which  that  affair  had  first  made  upon  my 
mind,  on  information  that  was  not  correct. 

Hoping  that  my  opinion  of  this  meritorious  officer  will  not 

be  unacceptable  to  you,  I  have  candidly  expressed  it,  and 

hoping  the  apology  stated  in  the  preceding  part  of  this  letter, 

will  justify  the  liberty  taken  of  intruding  opinions  unsolicited. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  most  respectfully,  your 

obedient  servant. 

Isaac  Shelby 
His  Ex.  James  Madison,  Pres  U.  S. 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department  i\Iay  24th  1814 

•    ;  ■  Har.  Pa.  lOS 

Sir: 

Your  letters  of  the  10th  and  11th  instant  have  been  received. 
[Not  found]  Your  resignation  has  been  communicated  to  the 
President  who  is  now  on  a  visit  in  Virginia. 

As  soon  as  the  Commission  is  returned  from  the  President, 
it  will  be  transmitted,  with  the  necessary  instructions  for 
holding  the  proposed  treaty  with  the  Indians. 

Col.  R.  ]\L  Johnson  and  the  Hon.  Jeremiah  i\Iorrov,'  will  be 
associated  with  you  in  this  mission  of  which  they  are  advised 
and  requested  to  communicate  with  j^ou  relative  to  the  place 
of  meeting. 

Major  Lownsly  of  the  Canadian  Militia  who  has  been  re- 
cently made  prisoner  should  be  retained  until  further  orders. 
IMaj.  General  Harrison 

Secretary  of  War  to  Harrison 

War  Department,  Jlay  28th,  1814 

Har.  Pu.  J 09 

Sir: 

Your  resignation  is  accepted  to  take  place  on  the  31st  in- 
stant as  you  requested  and  Gcnl.  [Duncan]  I\IcAi'thur  is  ac- 
cordingly ordered  to  take  command  of  the  District. 


652  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

I  beg  you  Sir,  to  accept  the  assurance  of  my  gi-eat  Respect. 
Major  Genl.  Harrison 


Col.  Robert  McDouall  to  Indians 

MiCHlLLlMAClNAC  June  5,  1814 

Mich.  Hist,  and  Pion.  Soc.  Pub.  XV,  5S1 

j\lY  Children  : 

I  embrace  the  opportunity  when  we  are  here  met  to  cele- 
brate the  Birth  Day  of  the  King,  your  great  Father,  to  reply 
to  the  words  which  you  lately  addressed  to  me;  on  this  happy 
occasion,  I  am  proud  to  see  such  an  assemblage  of  distin- 
guished Chiefs  &  Warriors  around  me,  many  of  vdiom  have 
already  signalized  their  valor  in  his  service  during  this  war. 
I  thank  you  all  for  your  past  services,  but  particularly  for  the 
proof  of  loyalty  and  attachment  you  have  shown  in  hastening 
to  the  defence  of  the  Island  when  threatened  by  the  enemy. 
You  have  now  proved  that  you  merit  the  benevolence  &  kind- 
ness with  which  your  Great  Father  has  always  treated  you; 
be  assured  that  the  interests  of  his  red  children  will  never 
be  forgotten  by  him,  that  he  will  keep  his  word  &  the  promises 
which  he  has  made  you. 

My  Children,  Listen  to  my  words,  that  I  may  make  you 
acquainted  with  the  auspicious  events  which  have  lately  taken 
place.  Your  Great  Father  Sir  George  Prevost  has  received 
powerful  reinforcements,  and  is  at  the  Head  of  a  large  Army 
of  Your  White  Brethren,  who  have  again  defeated  the  Ameri- 
cans, in  another  attempt  to  invade  Lower  Canada.  Kingston 
and  Fort  George  are  now  places  of  great  strength,  and  con- 
tain formidable  Garrisons;  we  are  in  possession  of  the  whole 
Niagara  Frontier  and  also  of  its  harbour  v\^hich  the  enemy 
last  year  found  so  advantageous.  Our  Fleets  on  Lake  Ontario 
are  also  more  numerous,  and  stronger  than  those  of  the 
Enemy,  tlie  impoi-tant  Fort  of  Oswego  has  lately  been  taken 
from  them  by  our  ships,  while  theirs  dare  not  stir  from  the 
shelter  of  their  harbours. 

My  children,  Everything  looks  well  for  us,  the  black  & 
louring  clouds  that  spread  darkness  around  us  are  dispersed, 
and  we  have  once  more  over  our  heads  a  clear  and  serene 
sky.  The  Great  Spirit  shines  on  our  just  cause,  but  froTSTis 
on  that  of  the  deceitful  Americans,  because  they  have  cruellj'' 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        653 

oppressed  you,  they  have  robbed  you  of  those  lands  which  you 
inherited  from  your  brave  ancestors,  and  still  they  are  not 
satisfied,  the  fertile  Country  which  they  have  usurped,  only 
encrease  their  appetite  for  fresh  encroachments,  and  you  will 
gradually  be  driven  toward  the  sitting  sun. 

My  Children  You  possess  the  Warlike  spirit  of  your  Fathers 
you  can  only  avoid  this  horrible  fate,  by  joining  hand  in  hand 
with  my  warriors  in  first  driving  the  Big  Knives  from  this 
Island,  &  again  opening  the  great  road  to  your  country^  I 
shall  then  be  enabled  liberally  to  supply  your  Vv^ants;  You 
will  once  more  see  the  Traders  in  your  Villages,  v^dth  Ammu- 
nition for  yourselves,  and  clothing  for  your  women  &  chil- 
dren ;  the  days  of  your  prosperity  will  return,  and  the  songs 
and  the  dance  be  again  heard  in  your  land. 

My  children,  The  time  is  favourable  for  this,  and  will  soon 
arrive.  The  King  your  great  Father  has  destroyed  his  foes 
on  the  other  side  of  the  big  Lake ;  He  is  now  the  most  power- 
ful monarch  in  the  world ;  and  has  no  other  Enemy  but  the 
Americans.  You  know  we  were  often  victorious  over  them 
when  but  few  in  numbers,  how  then  will  they  stand  against 
the  invincible  Warriors  &  the  mighty  Fleets  which  are  now 
coming  against  them?  Already  they  tremble  at  the  thoughts 
of  this,  and  know  not  which  vray  to  turn  to  escape  the  tre- 
mendous vengence  which  they  know  they  have  deserved. 
They  are  conscious  that  resistance  is  vain,  and  that  their 
power  compared  to  that  of  King  George,  is  like  dust  before 
the  wind.  They  therefore  ^^ish  to  lay  down  the  Tomahawk 
&  treat  for  peace. 

My  Children,  I  have  heard  of  the  message  which  the  Ameri- 
can have  latelj'  sent  to  your  red  Brethren;  it  is  sufficiently 
humiliating,  for  it  aclmowledges  their  incapacity  to  carry  on 
the  war  with  the  King  Your  Great  Father;  it  likewise  shovrs 
their  usual  disregard  to  truth,  for  they  say  that  when  a  peace 
is  made,  he  will  withdraw,  from  you,  and  that  they  then  will 
punish  all  those  who  do  not  now  renounce  our  friendship. 

My  Children,  When  these  perfidious  people  fail  in  war,  they 
try  to  succeed  by  artifice  &  cunning,  qualities  to  which  they 
excel  all  other  nations.  You  must  therefore  beware  how  you 
are  deceived  by  their  stratagems,  which  is  meant  to  sow  dis- 
seriiion  among  the  ti'ibes,  in  order  that  one  after  the  other, 
they  more  easily  become  the  \ictims  of  their  treacheiy. 

My  Children,  I  again  ask,  which  of  you  can  be  so  blind  & 


654  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

infatuated,  as  not  to  sec  that  the  big  Knives  will  never  be 
satisfied,  until  they  possess  all  your  lands  and  destroj*  you 
root  and  branch  from  the  face  of  the  earth.  They  have  no 
pity  for  you,  and  openly  avow  this  wicked  intention.  Which 
of  you  do  not  know  that  it  is  the  powerful  protection  of  the 
King  your  gi-eat  Father,  which  has  hitherto  saved  you  from 
this  miserable  fate,  and  which  can  only  save  you  from  it  in 
future. 

My  Children,  Listen  well  to  my  words,  none  of  you  must 
be  misled  by  this  deceitful  message,  for  it  will  be  dangerous 
for  you  to  go  astray  into  the  wrong  road,  and  difficult  for  you 
to  return.  What  is  there  in  it  but  a  convincing  proof  that  the 
power  of  the  Enemy  is  on  the  decline  and  instead  of  intimi- 
dating your  young  men,  should  inspire  them  with  fresh  cour- 
age to  get  back  their  old  boundaries  &  restore  the  days  of 
plenty  and  happiness  among  you;  Listen  again  my  children, 
the  time  is  at  hand  when  these  great  blessings  can  be  recov- 
ered. 

Mtj  Children  Should  the  King  your  great  Father  deign  to 
listen  to  the  proposal  which  the  Enemy  have  made  for  peace, 
it  will  be  on  the  express  condition  that  your  interests  shall  be 
first  considered,  your  just  claims  admitted  and  no  infringe- 
ments of  your  rights  permitted  in  future. 

My  Children  doubt  not  but  this  will  be  the  case.  The  King 
your  great  Father  has  assured  you  that  he  will  never  abandon 
his  red  children  whom  he  has  so  long  fostered  and  adopted. 
The  Great  Chief  at  Quebec,  Sir  George  Prevost  has  also  given 
his  word  to  the  same  effect,  this  ought  to  set  your  minds  at 
rest  upon  the  subject,  for  they  are  not  the  promises  of  the 
faithless  Americans  but  of  those  who  hate  duplicity  and  false- 
hood. 

My  Children  I  opened  my  ears  and  listened  attentively  to 
the  words  w^hich  you  addressed  to  me.  I  was  moved  v\'ith 
compassion  when  you  told  me  of  your  v/ant  and  distresses  last 
winter,  and  that  some  of  the  supplies  intended  for  you  did  not 
reach  you  owing  to  the  distance.  Now  that  you  are  here,  I 
will  endeavour  to  make  up  as  well  as  I  can  for  the  disappoint- 
mejit  and  to  give  you  proofs  of  my  esteem,  and  of  the  confi- 
dence which  I  place  in  your  valor  and  courage. 

My  Children  I  am  highly  pleased  tliat  you  have  listened  to 
the  wise  councils  of  your  friend  and  chief  the  Red  Head, 
whose  constant  study  is  for  your  advantage  and  to  do  you 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        655 

good.  Your  Great  Father  at  Quebec  lias  confidence  in  him, 
and  in  appointing  him  your  chief,  has  given  you  a  strong 
proof  of  his  paternal  regard. 

My  Chikbi  I  wish  you  to  show  your  gratitude  by  obeying 
him  in  all  things  that  he  wishes  you  to  do.  I  recommend  to 
you  that  the  utmost  friendship  and  harmony  prevail  among 
the  different  tribes,  and  that  the  young  men  do  not  disgrace 
themselves  by  any  disturbance  or  impropriety  of  conduct.  It 
is  proper  that  they  should  listen  to  the  voice  of  their  Chiefs 
&  of  thier  Fathers,  &.  derive  instructions  from  their  Council 
and  experience. 

My  Children  I  am  delighted  with  what  your  Great  Chief 
the  Red  Head  has  told  me;  that  in  your  wars  with  the  Big 
I^iives  you  have  been  equally  distinguished  by  your  bravery 
in  the  field  and  by  your  mercy  to  the  vanquished;  that  in  no 
one  instance  has  their  helpless  women  and  children  sustained 
an  injury.  Let  me  exhort  you  to  a  continuance  of  this  praise- 
worthj^  act,  which  is  the  more  meritorious  on  your  part,  con- 
sidering the  provocation  which  the  enemy  have  given  you. 

My  Children  Happy  are  those  warrors  who  rush  into  the 
fight,  having  justice  upon  their  side.  You  go  forth  to  combat 
for  the  tombs  of  your  forefathers  and  for  those  lands,  which 
ought  now  to  afford  shelter  and  sustenance  to  your  wives  and 
children.  !May  the  Great  Spirit  give  you  strength  and  courage 
in  so  good  a  cause,  and  crown  you  ^\ith  victory  in  the  day  of 

^^^^^^'  Lt.  Col.  Robert  McDouALL 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
•,         Jeffersonville  Ind.  Ter.  23  June  1814 

Sm:  Ha,:  Pa., S3 

You  will  receive  inclosed  a  letter  [April  12  above]  from  IMr. 
John  Johnston  Indian  agent  to  I\Ir.  Benjn.  Huffman  an  in- 
habitant of  this  Territory  relative  to  a  child  of  his  taken  by 
the  Indians.  If  you  can  be  instrumental  in  regaining  the 
child,  it  will  be  a  very  humane  and  friendly  act  in  restoreing 
him  to  his  parents.  The  discription  recited  in  I\Ir.  Johnston 
letter,  I  am  informed  by  Wm.  Huffman  answers  to  that  of  his 
child  except  the  hair  is  of  a  shade  between  red  and  yellow. 

I  am  very  respectfully 
Your  Obedient  Scrvt.  . 
Th.  Posey 


G56  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Shelby  to  Harrison 

Frankfort  June  28ih  1814 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelb7j's  "Letter  Book  B"  112 

My  Dear  Sir  : 

I  had  the  pleasure  last  evening  to  receive  your  favour  of  the 
27th  inst.,  Soon  after  I  wrote  you  last  I  was  determined  to 
accept  of  the  Mission  to  treat  with  the  North  W.  Indians  in 
that  determination  I  was  a  good  deal  influenced  by  the  pleas- 
ure I  should  derive  of  acting  once  more  with  you  for  the  inter- 
est of  our  country  But  the  constitutional  Barrier  which  has 
since  presented  itself  has  made  me  decline  all  thoughts  of  the 
journey  of  which  I  have  already  advised  the  president  of  the 
United  States  of  my  determination. 

The  17th  section  of  the  6th  article  of  the  Constitution  of 
Kentucky  declares  in  express  terms  that  "No  person  holding 
or  exercising  any  office  of  trust  or  profit  under  the  United 
State  shall  hold  or  exercise  any  office  of  trust  or  profit  under 
this  Commonwealth."  The  office  of  a  Commissioner  to  treat 
with  the  Indians  is  an  office  of  trust  and  the  necessity  of  com- 
mission from  the  president  (which  I  have  received)  is  the 
strongest  evidence  of  the  fact. 

I  have  not  a  single  doubht  but  my  acceptance  of  the  Com- 
mission to  treat  with  the  Indians  would  vacate  the  office  of 
Governor  of  Kentucky  and  altho,  I  care  very  little  about  this 
office  I  wish  I  was  rid  of  it  upon  Honourable  terms — I  would 
not  do  an  act  by  which  my  Country  might  be  thrown  into  a 
state  of  confusion  &  distraction — for  there  are  not  wanting 
amongst  us  men  enough  ready  to  lay  hold  of  any  pretext  to 
disturb  the  public  mind — when  you  have  reflected  on  these 
subjects  you  will  I  have  no  doubt  think  that  my  objection  to 
accept  the  m  ;sion  is  well  founded.  That  your  efforts  to  serve 
your  Country  in  the  arduous  task  before  you  may  be  crov.aied 
with  real  advantages  to  her  interests  and  with  honour  to 
yourself  is  the  sincere  prayer  of  My  Dear  Sir  your  very  affec- 
tionate friend  &,  most  obt.  servant. 

Isaac  Shelby 
Major  Genl.  Wm.  Henry  Harrison 

P.  S.    present  me  respectfully  to  Governor  Cass — 


THOMAS  POSEY 

Thomas  Posey,  second  aiid  last  Territorial  Governor  of  Indiana, 
was  a  neighbor  of  the  Washingtons  and  Harrisons  of  Virginii:.  He  was 
boin  near  Alcxandiia,  July  9,  1750.  In  1774  he  joined  the  Dunmore 
expedition  against  the  Ohio  Indians,  marching  under  General  Lewis  to 
the  field  of  Point  Pleasant,  where  he  distir.guished  himself  in  that  bloody 
battle,  October  10,  1774.  The  following  year  he  helped  his  ])atriotic 
neighbors  drive  Govei'uor  Dunmore  out  of  Virginia.  During  the  devolu- 
tion he  was  in  the  service  continuously — under  Washington  in  New  Jer- 
sey, under  Morgan  at  Saratoga,  under  Sullivan  against  the  Iroquois, 
under  Washington  at  Monmouth,  under  Wayne  at  Stony  Point,  under 
Washington  at  Yorktown — and  made  an  honoiablc  ]'ecord. 

February  22,  179-'^  he  was  aj^pointcd  a  Biigadier  General  and  joined 
the  army,  under  his  old  commander,  Wayne,  in  Ohio.  Decenibei'  11), 
17'J8,  he  Avas  a];i)ointed  a  land  commissionei-  in  Viiginia.  About  1800 
he  ca)rie  to  Kentucky  and  became  a  membei-  of  the  kjgislatuic.  Just 
before  the  war  of  1812  he  moved  to  Louisiana  and  soon  aL'ter  was  ap- 
pointed a  United  States  senator  to  finish  the  unexpii-ed  ieini  of  Senator 
Destrjhan. 

February  14,  1813,  President  Madison  appointed  Posey  governoi'  of 
Indiana  territory.  He  served  till  Indiana  became  a  state,  J'ecenibe)-, 
181(),  when  he  became  Indian  agent  on  the  Wabash.  He  died  at  Shav/nee- 
town,  Illinois,  March   ID,  1818. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        657 

Posey  Convening  Assembly 

Jeffersonville  July  IG  1814 
Western  Sun,  July  23,  ISII^ 

PROCLAMATION 

Whereas  circumstances  of  a  nature  highly  important  to  the 
welfare  and  interest  of  the  territory,  render  it  necessary  that 
the  Legislature  should  be  convened  at  an  earlier  period  than 
is  fixed  and  prescribed  by  law.  Therefore,  I  Thomas  Posey, 
Governor  and  Commander-in-Chief  in  and  over  the  Indiana 
Territory,  do  issue  this  my  Proclamation,  Requiring  the  at- 
tendance of  the  members  of  the  Legislative  Council  and  House 
of  Representatives  of  said  territory,  who  may  be  elected  at 
the  ensuing  election  on  the  first  Monday  in  August  next,  to 
meet  at  the  town  of  Corydon,  the  seat  of  government,  on 
Monday  the  15th  day  of  August  next,  at  which  time  will  be 
laid  before  them  for  their  consideration,  such  subjects  as  will 
require  their  attention. 

Given  under  my  hand  and  the  seal  of  the  Territory,  at  Jef- 
fersonville, this  16th  day  of  July,  1814. 

Th.  Posey. 

^  Posey  to  General  Assembly 

Corydon,  August  15,  1814 

Mss.  in  Secretary  of  State's  Office 
Western  Sun,  Angiist  27,  181J, 

Gentlemen  of  the  Legislative  Council,  and  Gentlemen  of  the 

House  of  Representatives : 

The  circumstances  which  have  been  considered  to  exist  by 
the  passage  of  a  law  at  the  last  session  of  the  legislature, 
entitled  "An  act  reorganizing  the  courts  of  justice",  have  con- 
strained me  to  convene  the  legislature  at  the  present  period, 
believing  it  to  be  necessary  that  the  law  should  undergo  a 
reconsideration  and  amendment;  or  malce  such  other  arrange- 
ments as  in  the  discretion  of  the  legislature  may  be  thought 
advisable. 

The  present  existing  law  reorganizing  the  courts  of  justice 
has  not  only  been  thought  defective  by  tlie  judges  of  the 
superior  court,  but  by  a  number  of  lav/  characters,  and  others, 
men  of  information  and  experience.     Some  of  the  courts  have 


658  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

been  partially  organized,  and  in  some  counties  there  has  been 
no  court  established  under  the  present  law,  and  none  of  the 
courts  have  proceeded  to  do  business  considered  of  any  mate- 
rial consequence.  That,  taking  into  consideration  the  griev- 
ances the  citizens  of  the  territory  labour  under  in  the  delay, 
and  stop  put  to  the  proceedings  of  the  courts,  I  have  thought 
it  my  indispensable  duty  to  convene  the  legislature  as  early 
as  possible  after  the  election- 
It  may  also  be  advisable  that  the  militia  lav,-  should  undergo 
a  reconsideration.  The  mode  of  calling  out  the  militia  into 
actual  service  in  time  of  invasion  is  not  so  clearly  defined  as 
it  may  be,  and  by  a  reconsideration,  other  defects  probably 
may  be  discovered  which  may  make  it  necessary  to  amend. 
At  all  times  it  is  necessary  to  have  the  militia  well  organized 
and  kept  in  good  training,  but  particularly  at  the  present  crisis 
of  the  state  of  affairs,  so  interesting  to  the  U.  States.  Peace 
may  take  place  between  the  U.  States  and  G.  Britain,  at  a 
short  period,  but  from  recent  circumstances  that  have  taken 
place  in  Europe,  I  am  of  opinion  that  peace  is  much  more 
remote  than  many  calculate  upon ;  and  the  best  waj'  to  have 
an  honorable  peace  is  to  be  well  prepared  for  war.  I  do  not  de- 
spair of  obtaining  an  honorable  peace,  neither  have  I  a  want 
of  confidence  in  the  administration  of  our  general  government, 
or  in  the  disposition  of  our  citizens  at  large  to  risk  their  lives 
and  property  for  the  security  of  our  just  rights.  God  will 
protect  our  country  if  the  citizens  have  virtue,  and  will  lay 
their  shoulders  to  the  wheels  of  government.  Better  would  it 
be  for  the  credit  of  our  nation  to  wage  a  perpetual  war,  than 
be  disgi'aced  by  a  relinquishment  of  the  rights  of  freemen.  Si^ 

The  length  of  the  present  session  depends  upon  yourselves; 
you  can  make  it  long  or  short,  as  may  best  comport  with  the 
interest  of  our  territory.  I  shall  not  only  feel  it  a  duty  in- 
cumbent upon  me  to  cooperate  with  you,  but  it  will  be  a  pleas- 
ure for  me  to  do  so,  and  to  render  every  possible  service  for 
the  public  good.  In  the  course  of  your  deliberations,  I  recom- 
mend harmony,  &  wish  you  a  pleasant  session. 

Th:  Posey 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        659 

Posey  to  General  Assembly 

CoRYDON  August  18,  1814 

Western  Sny2,  Seijiembo'  S,  ISUt 
Mhs.  in  Secretary  of  State's  Office 

To  the  Honourable  President  and  Members  of  the  Legislative 

Council: 

It  is  with  much  pleasure  I  observe  in  your  answer  to  my 
communication  that  my  conduct  in  convening  the  legislature 
at  the  present  period  meets  your  approbation,  and  that  you 
approve  of  the  several  subjects  offered  for  your  consideration. 

I  am  of  opinion  with  you,  that  the  law  reorganizing  the 
courts  of  justice  is  far  from  being  so  defective  as  many  have 
considered,  and  as  has  been  handed  out  to  the  community ;  and 
I  am  of  opinion  that  had  the  courts  been  organized  to  the 
extent  that  was  contemplated  when  passed,  that  it  would  have 
been  attended  with  happy  consequences  and  given  very  gen- 
eral satisfaction. 

In  the  course  of  your  deliberations  to  provide  a  remedy 
for  our  present  deranged  judiciary,  I  have  full  confidence  that 
you  will  use  every  exertion  in  your  power  to  have  the  best 
possible  system  that  you  can  devise,  to  secure  to  our  citizens 
their  just  rights  of  life,  liberty,  and  property.  I  receive  with 
pleasure  your  sincere  wish  for  my  happiness,  and  most  sin- 
cerely hope  and  wish  you  may  individually  and  collectively 
enjoy  health  and  prosperity. 

I  am,  with  perfect  respect  and  regard,  your  obt.  servt. 

Th:  Posey 

Isaac  Shelby  to  Thomas  Posey 

Charlestown  September  15th  1814 

Mss.  in  Indiana  State  Library 

His  Excellency  Thomas  Posey 

Governor  and-  Commander  in  Chief  of  Inda  Tery 
Sir 

Not  having  saw  Colo  [Joseph]  Bartholomew  last  evening 
as  I  expected  in  consequence  of  it  being  late  in  the  evening 
as  I  passed,  I  this  day  called  to  see  the  Colo  and  communicated 
to  him  the  subject  of  our  conversation  when  I  was  last  in  your 
Company — Upon  which  the  Colo  observed  that  in  Justice  he 
could  not  feel  himself  sufficiently  qualified  to  fill  that  Office, 


660  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

and  discharge  the  duties  which  would  be  incumbent  upon  him, 
And  at  the  same  time  requested  me  to  return  his  warmest 
thanks  to  you  for  the  high  Consideration  your  Excellency 
entertained  of  him  &c;  The  Colo  then  observed  there  were 
men  in  the  County  he  thought  better  qualified  for  that  Office 
than  himself,  and  Particularly  named  Judge  [William]  Good- 
win, as  he  had  heretofore  filled  the  Office  of  a  Judge  in  our 
Former  Court  of  Common  Pleas,  which  Office  he  had  Honor- 
ably filled,  and  as  Mr.  Goodwin  had  experience  and  was  also 
Better  qualified  than  himself,  he,  would  certainly  much  rather 
Judge  Goodwin  would  be  named  to  your  Excellency — when 
I  discovered  that  the  Colo  was  averse  to  it,  I  Rode  over  to 
Judge  Goodwin's,  to  whom  I  expressed  the  Colos.  wish  &c.  and 
as  the  Judge  had  been  named  also  to  j^ou,  I  solicited  Mr.  Good- 
win upon  the  occasion,  who  expressed  much  reluctance  to  ac- 
cept, having  heretofore  spent  a  considerable  length  of  time  in 
discharging  the  duties  of  a  member  of  the  Court,  and  would 
rather  some  other  person  could  be  had  that  was  Better  quali- 
fied— 

However  the  Judge  after  some  consideration  observed  he 
was  never  unwilling  to  serve  his  Countrey  in  any  way  that  he 
thought  he  could  render  them  any  kind  of  good — And  that  if 
your  Excellency  should  think  proper  to  confer  on  him  the 
appointment  he  would  with  pleasure  accept  &c 

Not  presuming  to  Dictate  to  your  Excellency  I  feel  no  kind 
of  doubt  in  saying  that  Judge  Goodv/in  [appointed  Sept.  17, 
1814]  will  Honourably  fill  the  Office  should  you  think  proper 
to  appoint  him — 

With  Sentiments  of  high  consideration  I  am  &c 

Isaac  Shelby 

Posey  to  William  Polke 
■   .  JEFFERSONVILLE  15th  September  1814 

Police  Mss.  furnished  hy  Mrs.  Rximely 

Dr.  Sir: 

I  herewith  enclose  to  you  the  commission  for  the  Associate 
Judge  for  the  county  of  Knox,  &  a  commission  for  coroner  of 
Sd.  county,  also  a  commission  for  Isaac  Blackford  Esqr.  as 
circuit  Judge  of  the  1st  District,  &  a  connnission  for  yourself 
to  administer  the  oath  of  office. 

I  have  no  blanks  in  the  office  at  present  for  Justice  of  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        661 

Peace,  we  were  expecting  them  from  the  printer  every  day,  as 
soon  as  they  come  to  hand  I  shall  a  commission  for  W.  Mc- 
Namee  as  Justice  of  the  Peace.  After  your  clerk  is  commis- 
sioned &  taken  the  oath  of  oflice  &c.  he  will  have  the  power  to 
administer  oaths  of  ofhce.  As  soon  as  your  Judges  have 
taken  the  oaths  of  office  I  wish  them  to  proceed  immediately 
to  make  choice  of  a  Clerk  of  the  Circuit  Court  &  send  on  the 
nomination  as  soon  as  possible  [see  Oct.  4,  below] . 

Yours  very  respectfully 

Tns.  Posey 

Endorsed  on  back:  William  Polke  Knox  County 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
Jeffersonville  Indiana  Territory  16th  Sept.  1814 

■  Har.  Pa.  293 

Sir: 

Friendly  Indians  in  a  small  number  have  resided  at  Vin- 
cennes  nearly  10  months,  and  there  is  an  addition  made  to 
them  at  different  times  now  making  the  number  17,  some  of 
which  are  found  to  be  very  useful  in  scouting  and  following 
after  Indians  who  at  times  commit  depredations  on  the  fron- 
tiers and  near  to  Vincennes.  I  have  ordered  that  rations 
should  be  furnished  them,  also  some  necessary  clothing.  It  is 
expected  that  more  will  come  in.  I  wish  to  be  advised  upon 
the  subject.  It  will  be  necessary  to  appoint  some  person  to 
attend  to  them.  Mr.  Joseph  Barron  Indian  interpreter  for 
this  Territory  would  be  a  proper  person.  He  resides  at  Vin- 
cennes. 

.     .  I  am  very  respectfully 

.  '     .  Your  Obt.  Servt. 

Th.  Posey 
General  John  Armstrong,  Secretary  of  War 

William  Polke  to  Posey 

Vincennes,  October  4th  1814 

.  i  '.    ;  Mss.  furiiislied  by  Mrs.  Favnic  S.  Ritiiicly 

Sir 

I  have  received  commissions  of  the  Circuit  Judges  Mr. 
[Isaac]  Blackford,  Circuit  Judge  Daniel  Sullivan  and  James 
B.  McCall  associate  Judges  [see  below]  and  proceeded  to  ad- 


662  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

minister  the  oath  of  office  to  the  associate  judges  on  the  21st 
of  September  at  which  time  I  conminnicatcd  that  part  of  your 
Excellency's  letter  to  the  Judges  wishing*  them  to  proceed 
immediately  to  the  nomination  of  a  clerk  of  the  Circuit  Court 
the  Associates  after  consultation  proceeded  to  the  nomination 
of  a  Clerk  as  it  was  uncertain  whether  the  nomination  could 
with  safety  be  delayed  untill  the  arrival  of  Mr.  Blackford  at 
Vincenncs  as  the  Court  Came  on  Vvithin  a  few  days  and  I 
informed  the  Judges  that  in  a  conversation  with  Mr.  Black- 
ford on  the  Subject  he  had  informed  me  Stranger  as  he  was 
at  Vincennes  he  should  concur  in  the  nomination  of  the  Asso- 
ciates for  a  Clerk,  on  the  same  evening  Mr.  [Robert]  Bunton 
one  of  the  Candidates  for  the  Clerkship  presented  a  petition 
addressed  to  your  Excellency  signed  by  a  number  of  respecta- 
ble characters  praying  his  appointment  as  Clerk  and  wished 
my  signature  to  which  I  declined  observing  to  him  that  I 
wished  not  to  interfere  in  favor  as  they  observed  to  Mr.  Bun- 
ton  that  your  Excellency  had  authorized  the  Judges  to  nomi- 
nate a  Clerk  and  advised  him  to  present  his  petition  to  the 
Judges  for  their  consideration  and  Received  for  an  answer 
that  he  had  a  similar  petition  for  the  Judges  and  that  Send- 
ing the  same  to  your  Excellency  would  do  no  harm  or  words 
to  that  amount.  I  then  returned  Home  Satisfied  in  having 
Done  my  Duty  and  yesterday  morning  early  came  to  this 
place  in  order  to  administer  the  oaths  of  office  to  Mr.  Black- 
ford and  the  Clerk  so  that  no  neglect  of  mine  should  impede 
the  courts  proceeding  to  Business  on  my  arrival  I  proceeded 
to  administer  the  oath  of  offiice  to  Mr.  Blackford.  When  he 
informed  me  your  Excellency  had  enclosed  a  Blank  Commis- 
sion for  the  Clerk  and  authorized  him  to  fill  up  the  same  v/hich 
on  mature  reflection  he  had  Declined  and  informed  your  Ex- 
cellency thereof  I  sincerely  regrett  the  course  this  Business 
has  taken  as  at  the  time  the  Delegation  from  Knox  wished 
you  to  postpone  the  appointment  of  Clerk  untill  the  Judges 
should  nominate  one  and  you  was  so  obliging  as  to  ace-  de  to 
their  wishes  no  diffiiculty  was  expected  from  that  course  of 
proccedure  as  from  the  communication.  I  expect  you  will 
receive  by  this  mail  your  Excellencj''  will  be  in  full  possession 
of  all  the  circumstances  necessary  to  be  known.  I  hope  you 
will  proceed  to  the  appointment  as  soon  as  possible  as  the 
County  is  suffering  seriously  for  the  want  of  such  an  offiicer 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        663 

particularly  several  Estates  within  my  knowledge  who  cannot 
obtain  Letters  of  administration  before  tlie  appointment  and 
it  is  all  important  the  stock  should  be  sold  as  soon  as  possible 
which  must  be  my  excuse  for  troubling;  your  Excellency  at 
this  time.     I  remain  your  Sincere  friend  [see  Sept.  15  above]. 

Wm.  Polke 
His  Excellency  Thos.  Posey. 

P.S.  The  Associate  Judges  wishes  me  to  inform  your  Ex- 
cellency that  Mr.  Bunton  laid  the  petition  mentioned  above 
before  them  and  they  took  the  same  under  consideration  in 
their  nomination. 

Shelby  to  Posey 

Frankfort  Octr  31st 

From  Governor  Isaac  Shelby's  "Letter  Book  A"  Q19 

Sir 

I  have  the  honor  of  inclosing  herewith  a  Copy  of  an  indict- 
ment against  one  Isaac  Holeman,  who  I  am  informed  has  fled 
from  Jefferson  County  [Ky.]  to  your  territorj^ — in  persuance 
of  the  Act  of  Congress  in  such  case  provided  I  have  to  request 
of  your  Excellency  to  have  him  arrested,  and  information 
thereof  communicated  to  me  that  he  may  be  brought  to  trial. 
Should  it  be  found  more  convenient  you  may,  in  case  of  his 
arrest,  cause  him  to  be  delivered  to  any  person  designated  by 
Judge  Cosby. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be 

Respectfully  -     - 

Your  mo.  obt.  servt. 

Isaac  Shelby 
His  Excy.  Thomas  Posey  Govr.  of  Indiana 

•    Posey  to  Secretary  of  Wat. 

Jeffersonville,  Ind.  Ter.  3  Nov.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  295 

Sir: 

I  herewith  inclose  to  you  the  copy  of  a  letter  which  I  re- 
ceived by  express  from  Joseph  Barron  Indian  Interpreter  at 
Vincennes.  In  my  answer  to  him  I  have  ordered  the  friendly 
Indians  to  be  received  and  furnished  vrith  rations  and  a  pres- 
ent of  some  trifling  tilings  and  a  few  blankets  should  they 


664  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

stand  in  need  of  them.  I  have  likewise  given  orders  to  assign 
to  them  a  proper  place  for  an  encampment,  near  to  wood  and 
water  and  have  ordered  that  a  commissioned  officer  from  the 
]\Iilitia  of  conciliating  disposition  and  friendly  disposed  guard 
should  be  stationed  near  their  encampment  for  the  purpose  of 
protecting  the  Indians  from  evil  disposed  men,  and  to  keep 
order  and  prevent  their  stealing  from  or  insulting  any  of  the 
inhabitants.  It  is  necessary  to  appoint  an  agent  to  attend  min- 
utely to  the  wants  and  necessaries  of  those  Indians  and  receive 
all  friendly  Indians  that  may  come  in.  I  have  made  a  tempo- 
rary appointment  of  Joseph  Barron,  Indian  interpreter  to  dis- 
charge the  duties  assigned. 

I  wish  to  receive  instructions  from  the  department  of  war 
relative  to  the  foregoing  subject,  and  such  other  circumstances 
as  may  octur  relative  to  Indian  affairs.  There  has  been  for 
12  months  or  more  17  friendly  Indians  at  Vincenns  under 
my  protection,  who  have  received  regular  supplies  of  pro- 
visions and  some  articles  of  clothing.  Of  this  circumstance, 
I  gave  information  to  Gen.  Armstrong  secretary  of  war  and 
requested  that  he  would  instruct  me  upon  the  subjects  as  well 
as  to  any  other  friendly  Indians  that  might  come  in. 

I  also  wrote  to  him  that  there  was  clothing  which  had  been 
deposited  and  which  was  in  charge  of  the  former  Governor, 
that  all  the  blankets  which  had  been  delivered  to  Gen. 
[Samuel]  Hopkin's  militia  agreeable  to  orders  (Genl.  [John] 
Gibson  informs  me)  but  as  to  the  validity  of  the  orders  I  am 
not  informed.  All  the  woollens  are  also  given  out  and  what 
now  remains,  are  muslins,  callicoes,  shawles  and  trifling  arti- 
cles all  much  dammaged.  There  are  some  saddles  and  keggs 
of  powder  etc.  I  am  of  opinion  much  waste  has  been  made, 
but  if  the  few  articles  on  hand  were  sold  thej^  would  bring 
something  to  the  public  whereas  by  keeping  they  probably  will 
be  a  total  loss.  I  have  never  received  an  answer  from  the 
department  of  wai'  either  upon  the  subject  of  Indian  affairs, 
or  the  Indian  goods  and  if  convenient  should  be  glad  to  be 
advised. 

I  am  very  respectfully  your 
Obedient  Servant. 

Th.  Posey 

Hon.  James  IMonroe  Secrctarij  of  War 

City  of  Washington 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        6G5 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jfeefrsonville  Ind.  Ter.  12th  Nov.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  SO 2,  S03 

Sir: 

About  a  week  since,  by  last  mail,  from  this  I  wrote  to  you 
upon  the  subject  of  Indian  affairs  and  enclosed  to  you  a  letter 
from  Joseph  Barron  Indian  Interpreter  at  Vincennes,  respect- 
ing the  subject. 

I  have  this  moment  received  by  mail  a  letter  from  Judge  B. 
Parks  of  Vincennes,  giving  me  information  that  upon  the 
notice  given  by  Little  Eyes  a  chief  mentioned  in  Barron's  let- 
ter inclosed  to  you  [see  above]  of  the  encampment  of  I^Iain- 
polle's  [I\Iarpack's]  Potawatomies,  who  have  been  commiting 
considerable  depredations  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Vincennes 
and  Fort  Harrison,  and  now  encamped  on  the  road  to  St. 
Josephs  on  Yellow  creek  at  a  place  call'd  the  great  cut  off  90 
miles  above  Ft.  Harrison,  40  in  number  that  Capt.  [Pierre] 
Andre  commanding  a  company  of  Rangers  at  Vincennes,  a 
brave  and  determined  officer,  set  out  on  an  expedition  the  6th 
Inst.,  with  two  hundred  rangers  and  mounted  men  and  25 
days  provisions  in  order  to  strike  at  IMainpolles  encampment, 
or  where  he  and  his  party  may  be  found.  He  has  taken  with 
him  Little  Eyes  or  a  petit  onounted,  who  was  desirous  of  ac- 
companying the  expedition  also  Joseph  Barron  Interpreter. 
Should  Capt.  Andre  be  fortunate  in  falling  in  with  Mainpolle 
and  his  Indians,  I  have  no  doubt  of  his  success. 

Capt.  [William]  Russell  who  commanded  at  Vincennes  upon 
being  informed  of  the  death  of  Brig.  Genl.  [Benjamin]  Hov>'- 
ard,  went  on  immediately  to  St.  Louis  to  take  command  there. 

You  will  please  to  answer  my  letter  of  the  Sd  inst  addressed 
to  you  upon  the  subject  relative  to  instructions  respecting 
the  reception  of  Indians  who  may  come  in  proffesing  friend- 
ship. They  must  be  fed,  and  have  some  necessary  clothing 
furnished  at  expense  of  the  public.  Should  it  be  thought 
proper  to  have  an  agent  appointed  for  the  purpose  of  attend- 
ing to  their  necessities  any  instruction  which  I  may  receive 
shall  be  duly  discharged. 

I  am  very  respectfully 

Your  Obt.  Servt. 

Th.  Posey 
Col.  James  Monroe  Secretary  of  War 

City  of  Washington 

45—21:664 


666  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Barron  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Nov.  12  1814 
Har.  Pa.  297-298 

merely  with  a  view  of  getting  near  Vincennes  for  the  pur- 
poses of  trade  and  friendly  intercourse.  They  further  stated 
that  there  were  many  other  families  or  large  parties  equally 
anxious  to  come  in,  could  they  only  have  assurance  of  being 
well  received,  among  which  a  camp  of  Kickapoos  of  about  20 
cabbins  residing  north  of  Tippecanoe.  Upon  this  conference 
it  Vv'as  determined  that  Little  Ej^es  should  be  detained  until 
your  pleasure  in  the  case  should  be  known  but  as  they  had 
promised  their  family  to  return  in  eight  days,  and  warned 
them  in  case  they  did  not,  to  ascribe  their  absence  to  some 
fatal  accident  or  occurrence  and  immediately  to  break  up  their 
camp  and  fly  back,  it  was  deemed  expedient  that  Tacko  set 
out  tomorrow  in  order  that  he  may  reach  them  before  the  time 
expires.  I  shall  continue  to  support  and  protect  Little  Eyes, 
and  any  other  friendly  Indians  that  may  come  in,  in  conform- 
ity with  your  directions,  and  shall  expect  your  farther  com- 
mand in  this  relation.  I  would  further  beg  leave  respectfully 
to  sugger/i:  to  you  the  propriety  of  making  some  trifling  pres- 
ent to  each  one  that  may  com  in  provided  there  be  proper 
deportment.  Not  that  they  have  hinted  that  any  such  thing 
is  desired  or  ecpected,  but  merely  as  a  measure  dictated  by 
policy. 

I  presume  one  or  more  of  the  officers  will  furnish  you  with 
a  corresponding  narative.  and  now  sir,  after  having  done 
what  I  conceived  to  be  my  duty  in  this  business  I  respectfully 
await  your  dictates  as  to  the  best  means  of  bringing  repent- 
ant enemies  over  to  peace  and  amity,  and  your  orders  as  to 
the  part  I  am  to  act  therein, 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  very  respect 

Your  Obt.  Servt.  Joseph  Barron 

Indian  Interpreter 

P.  S. 

Little  Eyes  gives  information  that  the  friendly  Kickapoos 
already  mentioned  are  in  two  parties,  one  about  12  miles 
above  Tippecanoe  and  the  other  about  16  miles  fartlier  and 
that  about  60  miles  from  them  on  the  road  to  St,  Josephs  on 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        667 

Yellow  Creek  at  a  place  called  the  Great  Cutoff  is  a  band  of 
about  40  Potawatomie  warriors  under  J/Tainpoke  and  that 
these  are  the  Indians  that  have  killed  our  men  and  stole  their 
horses  at  Ft.  Harrison  and  the  neighbourhood.  The  informa- 
tion comes  through  the  Kickapoos  mentioned  who  state  that 
they  have  a  small  prairie  full  of  horses.  That  they  slip  out 
from  their  hiding  place  and  sell  the  horses,  come  down  here, 
get  a  resupply,  return  with  them  etc.  Now  as  it  appears  that 
we  have  enemies  on  the  north,  it  seems  to  me  a  measure  of 
indespensible  caution  and  in  this  I  have  the  concurrence  of 
all  with  whom  I  have  conversed,  that  in  order  to  distinguish 
between  the  friend  and  the  foe,  that  all  Indians  that  are  re- 
ceived as  friendly  be  place  on  our  West  or  south,  say  Embar- 
ras,  little  Wabash,  or  White  river,  near  the  mouth  in  all  which 
places  game  i:^  abundant.  This  point  is  with  deference  sub- 
mitted.    [Fragment.] 


J.  B. 


Benjamin  Parke  to  Posey 


ViNCENNES,  IND.  TER.  13th.  Nov.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  299-301 

Sir: 

Capt.  [Frederick]  Sholts  and  Lt.  [Hyacinth]  LaSsell  ar- 
rived from  Fort  Harrison  this  evening. 

About  the  time  Capt.  [Pierre]  Andre  maj'ched  from  this 
place,  Lieut.  LaSseli  crossed  the  country  to  White  river  for 
Little  eyes  people  and  with  them  (10  or  12  warriors  and  20 
woman  and  children)  joined  the  Captain  at  Ft.  Harrison. 
Two  Miamics  who  came  to  Little  eyes  camp,  while  the  latter 
was  here,  gave  Capt.  Andre  the  following  information.  That 
there  are  about  two  hundred  Kickapoos,  warriors  and  a  few 
Potawatomies  on  the  Virmillion  about  three  hundred  Pota- 
watomies  at  Tippecanoe  and  other  bands  of  that  tribe  scattered 
from  there  to  the  Chicago  and  other  posts  of  the  enemy.  The 
Kickapoos,  in  part  are  represented  as  friendly  and  the  greater 
portion  of  the  Potawatomies  decidedly  hostile.  About  the  1st 
of  Oct.  a  number  of  these  Kickapoos  and  Potawatomies  re- 
ceived a  considerable  present  of  amnumition  and  clothing 
from  a  British  trader  near  Chicago  and  the  last  of  this  month 
another  supply  was  promised  from  the  same  place.  The  re- 
pulse of  [George]  Cro.r.han  at  Mackinac,  and  the  capture  of 
Prairea  Do  Chain  wei'C  passed  upon  those  Indians  as  sure 


668  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

progiiostigations  of  future  success  and  that  next  spi  ing;.  De- 
troit, and  Vincennes  were  to  be  taken. 

That  the  Tiitish  were  using  every  exertion  to  keep  the  Indi- 
ans steady  to  their  interest — and  promised  the  estabhsliment 
of  a  post  at  or  near  Chicago  that  the  few  Potawatomies  that 
visited  at  Greenville  at  the  treaty  were  advised  to  that  step 
by  the  British  to  get  powder  and  ball,  to  be  used  against  our 
people  on  their  return — And  that  the  Kickapoos  iDeiixg  ques- 
tioned as  to  their  motive  in  going  to  the  British  at  Clr'cago, 
answered,  that  their  fatlier,  the  President  was  too  sparing  of 
his  presents. 

Lieut.  Lassell  has  known  the  Miamies  who  gave  this  infor- 
mation for  ten  or  twelve  years;  and  has  great  confidence  in 
their  integi'ity.  Capt.  Andre  believing  his  force  much  too 
small  to  march  into  the  Indian  country  as  intended,  halted  at 
Ft.  Harrison  and  yesterday  dispatched  Little  Eyes  to  the  Kick- 
apoos, to  ascertain  more  precisely  their  intention. 

Lassell  believes  that  the  Weas  (upwards  of  two  hundred 
souls)  and  probably  a  part  of  the  Kickapoos  will  come  in  and 
a  prospect  of  a  small  supplj'  of  ammunition  and  clothing  will 
no  doubt  induce  some  of  the  Indians  really  hostile  to  profess 
peace  and  claim  our  protection,  and  their  wants  supplied  for 
the  winter,  desert  and  turn  their  arms  against  us  in  the  spring. 
Under  these  circumstances  I  must  beg  the  favor  of  more  pre- 
cise instruction  than  I  have  yet  reed.  What  place  is  to  be 
assigned  for  the  residence  of  the  Indians  that  may  come  in? 
and  what  is  the  nature  and  extent  of  the  supplies  with  v\iiich 
you  wish  them  furnished?  If  they  are  fixed  beyond  the  set- 
tlements where  they  might  derive  a  partial  subsistence  from 
hunting,  they  will  not  only  keep  the  frontiers  in  alann,  but 
they  will  themselves  be  liable  to  injury  by  mischievous  white 
people,  and  however  well  disposed,  any  ill  treatment  from  us, 
would  occasion  their  instantly  rejoining  the  hostile  Indians. 
If  brought  within  the  settlements,  they  will  be  an  intolerable 
expense  to  the  Government  but  probably  it  may  be  cheaper  to 
feed  and  clothe  them  than  to  wage  war  against  them. 

In  regard  to  the  Inidians  generally,  whilst  the  British,  or 
their  agents  have  access  to  them,  they  will  never  remain  at 
peace  with  us  and  should  the  Lliamies  remain  in  the  Indian 
country  this  winter,  they  will,  if  not  from  inclination,  at  least 
from  a  dread  of  the  Potawatomies  be  again  at  war  with  us 
next  spring.     Possibly  it  might  be  best  for  peace  not  to  be 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        6G9 

made  with,  or  any  protection  afforded  any  of  the  Indians,  but 
upon  condition  of  their  entering  into  our  service,  and  sending 
their  women  and  children  within  our  settlements.  V/e  would 
then  have  a  strong  pledge  for  their  fidelity,  and  their  services 
against  the  hostile  Indians  might  be  rendered  eminently  use- 
ful. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  veiy  respectfully  Sir  Your  Obt.  Svt. 

Govenior  PosEY  ^-  P^^ke 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonvillb  Ind.  Ter.  18th  Nov.  1811. 

o  _  .  ■  Har.  Pa.  30^,  305 

I  am  of  opinion  froni  recent  information  that  the  Indians 
are  about  to  become  extremely  troublesome  upon  our  frontier. 

I  have  by  express  just  received  a  letter  [Nov.  13  above] 
from  Judge  Benj.  Park  of  Vincennes  a  copy  of  which  I  here- 
with inclose  to  you. 

I  have  written  very  lately  to  you  upon  Indian  affairs,  and 
requesting  your  instructions  upon  that  subject  you  will  dis- 
cover in  a  considerable  degree  from  Judge  Parks  letter  what 
may  be  necessary  to  be  done.  Untill  I  receive  instructions 
from  the  department  of  war  I  have  authorized  Judge  Parke 
and  Mr.  Tusaint  Dubois  both  residents  in  and  near  Vincennes 
to  receive  the  friendly  Indians  and  have  them  encamped  at 
some  suitable  distance  (near  to  wood  and  water)  from  Vin- 
cennes to  have  them  supplied  with  rations  by  the  contractor, 
authorizing  him  to  issue  provisions  for  the  Indians;  and  do 
for  the  Indians  that  may  come  in,  whatever  may  appear  for 
the  best  advantage  to  promote  the  public  welfare.  Should 
you  think  it  necer  jary  to  appoint  an  agent  to  attend  to  these 
friendly  Indians  that  may  come  in  to  Vincennes,  I  could  rec- 
ommend Mr.  Tusaint  Dubois  who  is  a  man  very  much  re- 
spected and  to  be  I'elied  on,  who  has  been  an  old  Indian  trader, 
is  well  acquainted  with  a  great  many  of  them;  speaks  the 
Indian  language,  and  has  been  a  resident  at  Vincennes  for  at 
least  thirty  or  more  years.  It  will  be  necessary  that  supplies 
of  provision  some  articles  of  clothing  and  some  ammunition 
be  ordered  for  them. 

T  am  very  respectfully  yours 

Your  Obt.  Servt. 

Th.  Posey 


670  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Nov.  18,  1814 
Har.  Pa.  309-3U 

Sir: 

Yours  of  the  12th  inst.  has  been  received.  Information  by 
the  last  mail  renders  it  pro;)able  that  Montreal  and  iTlackinac 
will  not  be  obtained  this  campaign,  and  those  places  in  the 
hands  of  the  English,  the  Indians  will  receive  their  accustomed 
supplies  of  arms,  and  ammunition  and  clothing  for  another 
year.  Whilst  the  war  continues  with  Great  Britain,  and  the 
subjects  of  that  power  have  access  to  the  Indians  the  latter 
will  also  be  engaged  in  war  with  us.  Indeed  v/here  they 
break  and  make  peace,  they  still  entertain  an  implacable 
enmity  against  us,  and  which  manifests  itself  in  open  hostili- 
ties on  the  slightest  occasions  that  occur.  The  Indians  feel 
the  greatest  regard  for  the  French  but  cut  off  from  all  inter- 
course with  that  nation,  the  British  have  the  next  place  in 
their  affections,  the  Americans  in  v/ar  or  peace  they  detest. 
The  reason  is  obvious.  The  French  while  they  possessed  the 
Canadas  asked  for  no  more  land  than  was  necessary  for  their 
trading  establishments.  Their  settlements  occasioned  no 
deminution  of  game,  no  interruption  of  the  Chase,  They 
exchanged  goods  for  peltry  many  of  the  Traders  mariied  into 
Indian  families  and  adopted  their  language,  manners  and  dress. 
Their  trade  was  beneficial,  their  policy  conciliatory  and  the 
extension  of  the  settlements  of  the  British  Colonies  excited  as 
lively  resentments  in  the  minds  of  the  Savages,  as  have  since 
been  manifested  in  their  v^^ars  against  the  Americans.  The 
policy  of  the  French  has  since  the  peace  of  '63  been  pursued 
by  Great  Britain  and  friendly  connections  with  that  Govern- 
ment and  enmity  and  hostility  against  the  Americans  are  cul- 
tivated and  maintained  through  the  agency  and  influence  of 
the  desendants  of  the  ancient  Canadian  French.  They  are  to 
be  found  at  every  village  and  camp  from  our  frontier  settle- 
ments to  the  Slave  Lake  and  the  Mountains  and  by  their  em- 
ployment only  the  N.  \V.  Company  were  enabled  to  extend 
their  trade  and  obtain  the  control  they  now  possess  and  exer- 
cise over  the  ludian^.  But,  in  addition  to  the  machinations 
and  influence  of  the  Traders  there  are  other  sources  of  irri- 
tation. They  dread  and  are  exasperated  at  the  extension  and 
proc=  -^ss  of  our  settlements.     There  are  Indians  now  living 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        671 

"who  in  their  youth,  were  accustomed  to  cross  the  Allegheny 
moimtains  in  their  war  excursions.  They  now  find  our  set- 
tlements at  the  ^Mississippi  and  the  Lakes.  Ten  or  twelve 
years  ago  they  enjoyed  extensive  hunting  grounds  on  the  Ohio 
and  before  the  present  war  commenced  our  settlements  had 
forced  them  back  toward  three  hundred  miles  from  that  river. 
The  Indians  are  alarmed  for  their  lands,  the  British  for  the 
Canadas  and  hence  the  famous  projects  of  Tecumseli,  of  Unit- 
ing all  the  nations  East  of  the  ]\Iississippi  and  south  of  the 
lakes  and  prohibiting  the  sale  of  lands  by  any  Tribe  without 
the  consent  of  the  whole  confederacy.  Fifty  or  sixty  years 
ago  the  Peorias,  Cahokias,  ]\Iicheganians,  Kaskaskias,  and 
Peankashaws,  especially  the  two  last,  were  numerous  and  war- 
like, three  of  those  tribes  are  now,  I  believe  extinct,  the  others 
nearly  so  and  the  few  that  remain  are  the  most  worthless 
vagrants  of  their  color.  Whatever  the  Indians  may  appre- 
hend fate  has  in  reserve  for  them  thej'  doubt  not,  but  that 
their  misfortunes  and  calamities  will  proceed  from  the  Amer- 
icans, they  will  never  treat  with  us  in  good  faith  whilst  the 
British  hold  any  part  of  the  Continent  contiguous  to  them  and 
if  they  make  peace  it  will  be  founded  in  hypocracy  and  vio- 
lated the  first  favourable  opportunity  that  occurs.  The  Dele- 
wares  may  be  considered  an  exception.  They  are  hov:ever  the 
only  one  of  the  small  bands  that  were  with  the  N.  W.  Army 
need  not  be  mentioned.  I  speak  generally  of  the  Indians. 
Tribes  that  had  participated  largely  of  the  bounty  of  the  Gov- 
ernment, and  Chiefs  who  had  been  caressed  and  indulged  to 
the  extent  of  their  desires  were  on  the  commencement  of 
the  war  amongst  the  foremost  in  raising  the  Tomahavrk 
against  us. 

An  officer  at  the  head  of  his  army — after  giving  them  re- 
peated defeats,  is  the  most  competent  negociator  to  treat  vritli 
the  Indians.  Tlie  first  treaty  of  Greenville  was  of  longer  dura- 
tion than  it  otherwise  would  have  been  as  General  Wayne 
was  the  agent  employed  to  make  it;  but  even  that  Treaty 
would  have  been  violated  long  before  it  was  had  it  not  been 
for  the  influence  of  the  British  agents  having  prepared  tlie 
Indians  for  war.  They  wished  the  relation  betv/een  us  and 
England  to  assume  a  more  decisive  character  before  they  com- 
menced hostilities  and  it  was  contrary  to  their  vievvs  that  the 
.battle  of  Tippecanoe  was  fought. 


672  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

If  the  information  derived  from  the  ]\Iiamis  and  communi- 
cated to  you  in  mj^  last  letter  be  correct,  the  motive  of  the 
Potawatamies  in  re-establishing  themselves  on  the  Wabash 
is  clear,  it  is  for  the  purpose  of  driving  the  T^Iiamis  into  the 
hostile  confederac}'  and  if  they  remain  beyond  the  frontiers, 
it  will  in  four  months  be  accomplished.  And  next  spring,  as 
supplies  can  be  obtained  by  the  Indians  from  Chicago  as  they 
were  formerly  at  Maiden,  our  situation  will  be  precisely  vrhat 

it  was  in  1812.  t  i         i-u    tt  <    i  ^ 

I  have  the  Honor  lo  be  very  respect. 

Sir  Your  Obt.  Servant 

^  _,  B.  Parke 

GoveiTior  Posey 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

VINCENNES  Nov.  20th,  1814 
Har.  Pa.  S27,  32$ 

Sir: 

I  have  this  day  received  a  letter  from  Gov.  [William] 
Clarke.  Information  recently  conveyed  to  him  by  the  Indians 
of  the  Illinois  River  induces  a  belief  that  the  object  of  the 
assemblage  at  Tippecanoe  is  hostile.  This  together  wfOi  the 
information  from  the  INIiamis  removes  all  doubt  upon  tlie  sub- 
ject. The  British  are  still  in  possession  of  Prairie  De  Chain 
and  it  was  rumoured  that  a  detachment  of  Troops  v/ere  on 
their  march  from  Montreal  by  the  way  of  Grand  River,  to 
strengthen  that  Post.  Rest  assured  that  if  ^Montreal  and 
Machinac  should  remain  in  the  hands  of  the  English  till  next 
spring,  that  the  frontiers  of  this  and  the  two  neighbouring 
Territories  will  receive  a  more  severe  scourging  than  they 
have  yet  suffered. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  respectfully  Sir  Your  Obt.  Servant. 

Gov.  POSEY  ^-  P^^^^^ 

P.  S.  At  the  date  of  the  Governor's  letter  Col.  [William] 
Russell  was  in  pursuit  of  some  Indians  in  the  direction  of 
Boon's  Lick  on  the  ]\Iissouri  and  expected  to  return  to  St. 
Lewis  before  Wednesday  next.  I  hope  the  Col.  vdien  he  hoars 
the  change  that  has  taken  place  on  the  Wabash  will  return  to 
this  place.  The  Possee  at  Tippecanoe  ought  to  be  surprised 
and  driven  off  directly.  The  safety  of  the  frontier  of  this 
Teri'itory  depends  on  keepin  the  hostile  Indians  beyond  the 
Illinois  River. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        673 

B,  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  23rd.  November  1814 

Har.  Pa.  SO 9 

Sir: 

Your  letters  of  the  15th  and  18th  inst  were  received  on 
Monday  evening,  I  had  hoped  that  you  should  have  furnished 
me  instructions  more  specific  than  I  have  yet  received  and  I 
beg  you  to  be  assured  that  I  feel  a  just  sense  for  the  conii- 
dense  you  are  pleased  to  repose  in  me  but  under  an  authority 
so  general  and  unlimited  with  no  information  of  the  treaty 
of  Greenville  except  from  vague  report  or  any  knowledge  of 
the  policy  that  the  President  might  wish  to  be  pursued 
towards  the  Indians,  whilst  attempting  to  secure  the  frontiers 
from  Indian  depredation,  I  may  involve  the  interests  and 
counteract  the  views  of  the  Gen.  Govt.  Under  these  circum- 
stances I  shall  not  encourage  the  visits  or  enter  into  any  ar- 
rangement with  any  of  the  Indians.  With  such  as  may  come 
to  Ft.  Harrison  a  friendly  understanding  will  be  cultivated, 
some  provisions  occasionally  furnished,  and  to  facilitate  their 
hunting  ammunition  very  sparingly  distributed.  I  will  keep 
an  interpreter  at  that  post  and  should  any  considerable  num- 
ber come  in  I  will  go  there  myself.  There  is  not  much  danger 
to  be  apprehended  from  the  hostile  Indians  before  the  month 
of  February  by  that  time  they  will  be  in  motion  and  before 
Christmas  it  is  to  be  hoped  that  the  direc-tions  of  the  secretary 
of  war  may  be  received. 

I  handed  Mr.  [Touissant]  Dubois  your  letter.  He  declines 
accepting  the  agency  offered  him.  He  can  neither  read  nor 
write,  but  in  the  way  you  proposed  he  can  be  useful.  I  be- 
lieve his  zeal  and  enteii^rise  were  frequently  seiTiceable  to 
Gov.  Harrison. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  respectfully  your  Hm.  Ser. 

B.  Parke 

P.  W.  I  had  determini' '  yesterday  to  send  a  copy  of  our  cor- 
respondence to  the  Secretary  of  War  and  to  seek  special  in- 
structions from  that  Depar.  I  have  this  morn,  abandoned  it. 
If  I  do  no  good  I  will  endeavor  to  do  no  harm. 


674  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

James  Bigger  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Nov.  23,  1814 
Har.  Pa.  329 

Dear  Sir: 

On  yesterday  Negomin  a  war  chief  of  the  Delaware  Tribe 
came  into  the  settlement  v>ith  the  object  of  obtaining  permis- 
sion for  himself  and  party  of  Friendly  with  the  Whites  on  the 
frontiers.  His  party  consists  of  twenty  men  with  their  fam- 
ilies. I  directed  the  said  chief  and  his  party  to  keep  twenty 
miles  without  the  settlement  on  sand  creek  until  I  could  know 
from  your  Excellency  your  wishes  respecting  the  party.  I 
gave  the  liberty  to  some  of  the  party  to  come  in  and  procure 
salt  and  some  other  necessaries  in  as  much  as  they  were  suf- 
fering. They  will  be  in  in  the  course  of  four  or  five  days. 
Negomin  himself  in  ten  or  twelve.  I  wish  information  of 
your  Excellency  how  to  act. 

I  am  with  Esteem  Yours 
Obediently 

Gov.  Posey  '^^^^^^  Bigger,  Cajjt.  U.  S.  R. 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
Jeffersonville  Indiana  Territory  25th  [28th]  Nov.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  306,  307 

Sir: 

I  am  convinced  that  your  time  is  very  precious  at  the  pres- 
ent periods,  which  makes  me  the  more  reluctant  to  make  any 
encroachments  upon  it;  but  as  the  subject  upon  which  I  have 
been  addressing  and  am  now  addressing  for  your  considera- 
tion, is  of  considerable  importance  I  think  it  will  be  a  sufficient 
apology. 

Judge  Benj.  Parke,  whome  I  vested  with  such  powers  as  I 
may  possess,  for  the  purpose  of  acting  as  agent  for  Indian 
aftairs  at  and  in  the  vicinity  of  Vincennes,  has  been  communi- 
cating with  me  upon  the  subject  all  of  which  communications, 
I  have  inclosed,  you  copies,  [see  above]  and  have  solicited  you 
to  either  give  me  instructions  or  appoint  an  agent  or  define 
to  me,  or  whomesoever  you  may  think  proper,  the  necessary 
course  to  be  taken  relative  to  receiving  any  bands  of  Indians 
who  profess  friendship  to  the  U.  States.  It  is  probable  they 
must  be  fed  and  clothed  in  as  frugal  a  manner  as  possible  and 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        675 

til -it  they  must  hrve  a  moderate  supply  of  ammunition  for 
hunting.  And  it  will  be  necessary  to  consider  whether  they 
should  be  encamped  inside  or  outside  of  the  settlements. 

I  am  very  respectfully 
Your  Obt. 

Th.  Posey 
Honble.  James  Monroe,  Secretary  of  War 

P.  S.  I  have  never  been  furnished  with  the  proceedings  of  the 
treaty  held  last  summer  by  Gen.  Harrison  at  Greenville,  neither 
do  I  know  any  thing  relating  to  the  policy  of  the  President  or 
department  of  War  upon  the  subject  of  Indian  Affairs. 

My  residence  being  at  this  place  and  the  Indians  generally 
coming  into  Vincennes  obliges  me  to  appoint  an  agent  there. 

I  think  Judge  Benj.  Parke  v/ill  accept  the  appointment  for 
Indian  affairs  at  Vincennes  and  the  country  about  Ft.  Har- 
rison, should  you  think  of  having  one  appointed.  He  having 
resided  in  the  territory  a  number  of  years  and  pretty  conver- 
sant in  Indian  transactions  while  Genl.  Harrison  was  Gov- 
eiTior  will  make  him  a  proper  person  for  the  appointment. 

PosEY  TO  Secretary  of  War 
Jeffersonville  Indiana  Territory  26th  Nov.  1814 

Har.  pa.  326 

Sir: 

I  have  just  received  further  communication  from  Judge 
Ben.  Parke  and  Capt.  Bigger  [see  above]  of  the  rangers  rela- 
tive to  Indian  affairs  copies  of  which  I  here\^ath  transmit  for 
your  further  information.  This  is  the  third  letter  to  you  upon 
the  subject  of  Indian  affairs  and  not  having  received  any  in- 
structions from  the  department  of  war,  relative  thereto,  I 
hope  to  be  informed  of  the  person  or  persons,  or  department 
that  is,  or  may  be  authorized  to  attend  to  the  business  of 
Indian  affairs  in  this  Territojy.  Probably  the  business  comes 
properly  within  the  notice  of  the  commanding  ofTicer  of  this 
district,  or  of  such  regular  officers  as  may  command  at  diffei- 
ent  posts  or  stations.  Since  the  duties  of  the  Governors  of 
the  Territories  have  been  curtailed  and  military  concerns,  or 
opperations  are  vested  in  the  regular  officers,  I  do  not  feel 
authorized  to  act,  except  against  any  sudden  incursions  of  the 
enemy.     The  present  situation  of  the   friendly  disposed,  as 


676  INDIANA  HISTOPwICAL  COLLECTIONS 

well  as  the  hostile  Indians,  demands  immediate  attention  and 
for  the  present  time,  and  untill  the  secretary  of  war  gives 
proper  authority  or  information  where  the  proper  authority 
is  vested,  I  have  so  far  as  my  authority  extends  (if  I  have 
any)  authorized  Judge  Parke  of  Vincennes  and  a  Mr.  TuSaint 
Dubois  near  thereto,  who  has  been  an  old  Indian  trader  & 
pretty  well  acquainted  with  a  great  many  tribes  of  the  Indians 
to  act  in  conjunction  as  agents  for  Indian  affairs  in  that  quar- 
ter. I  did  recommend  JNIr.  Dubois  to  the  department  of  War 
as  a  proper  person  to  be  appointed  Indian  agent,  but  I  am 
informed  he  will  not  accept  the  appointment. 

I  am  veiy  respectfully  your  Obt.  Servt. 

"^  Th.  Posey 

James  Monroe,  Sect,  of  War 


B.  Parke  to  Posey 

Vincennes  November  29th,  1814 

Har.  Pa.  291-292 

Sir: 

A  few  daj''s  since  several  Miamis  and  Kickapoos  came  to 
Fort  Harrison.  Amongst  the  rest  were  Labossierre,  LaFrano- 
bois  aiid  Negro  Legs.  Labossierre  appeared  to  be  suspicious 
and  manifested  no  disposition  to  conciliate  and  it  would  seem 
that  the  object  of  his  visit  was  to  induce  Little  Eyes  and  his 
band  to  return  to  the  Indian  Countiy.  In  a  private  council 
he  stated  to  them  that  [William]  Conner  v>-as  the  only  lionest 
man  that  he  knew  amongst  the  Americans — that,  frank  and 
candid,  he  gave  him  the  news  entire — that,  he  had  informed 
him,  the  City  of  Washington  had  been  taken  by  the  British 
and  the  President,  driven  from  his  house  and  that  orders  had 
been  given  to  the  people  of  Vincennes  and  the  neighbouring 
settlements,  to  be  ready,  on  the  shortest  notice  to  abandon  the 
Coutiy  Labossierre  added  that  the  Indians  need  not  be  solici- 
tous about  cultivating  the  friendship  of  the  Americans  if  they 
came  within  the  settlement  of  the  Whites,  they  would  be  ex- 
posed to  ill  treatment,  to  be  throv/n  into  prison  etc.  and  that 
if  thej'-  would  remain  back  in  the  country  the  British  would 
i  m  restore  them  to  iho.  quiet  possession  of  their  land.  An 
Indian  who  says  he  was  present  at  the  Council,  gives  infor- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        677 

mation  of  this  speech.  William  Conner  Labossierre  informant 
is  a  Brother  of  John  Conner,  formerly  Interpreter  for  the  Del- 
awares.  What  employment  he  is  in  on  White  River  I  know  not, 
— Whether  this  talk  originated  with  Labossierre  or  whether 
he  received  it  from  Conner,  as  an  Emissary  of  the  British,  is 
indifferent. — the  manner  in  which  he  is  propagating  it  mani- 
fests an  mifriendly  disposition  tov»''ards  the  U.  States.  Labos- 
sierre has  been  orator  for  and  a  leading  man  amongst  the 
Weas  for  many  j^ears  past, 

I  forwarded  instructions  to  [Joseph]  Barron  agreeably  to 
my  letter  of  the  23  inst  but,  before  they  were  received,  Little 
Eyes  wishing  to  come  dov^ul,  Barron  gave  him  permission  and 
he  is  now  on  his  way  by  water  to  this  place.  I  vrill  endeavour 
to  dispose  of  him  and  his  people  (about  20  persons)  so  that 
they  will  receive  no  harm,  and  be  as  little  expense  to  the  Gov- 
ernment as  possible.  Wishing  Barron  to  be  here,  I  have  sent, 
[Michael]  Bruillet,  to  Fort  Harrison  a  copy  of  my  instruc- 
tions to  him  is  inclosed.  On  Saturday  night,  last,  one  horse 
and  on  Sunday  night  five  horses  vrere  taken  from  the  Bus- 
seron  settlement  25  miles  distant  from  this  place — supposed 
to  be  stolen  by  Indians.  A  party  of  Rangers,  are  in  ursuit 
of  them.  But  with  Indians  at  least  profosedly  lijondly, 
hunting  in  the  neighbourhood  of  the  frontiers,  under  the 
sanction  as  it  is  said  of  the  Greenville  Treaty,  and  assailed  by 
hostile  Indians — the  Rangers  in  pursuit  will  be  as  likely  to 
fall  in  with  friends  as  enemies  and  a  I\Iiami  will  not  be  read- 
ily distinguished  from  a  Potawatomy  or  Winebago  a  friendly 
Deleware  had  like  to  have  lost  his  life  a  few  days  since  by  a 
party  of  Public  Surveyors  on  White  River  the  consequence  of 
such  an  accident  must  be  obvious.  The  ]\Iiami  boundary  is 
within  five  and  thirty  miles  of  our  settlements  betvv'cen  the 
Wabash  and  White  River. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  bo  very  respectfully  Sir 
Your  Ob.  Servt.  B.  Parke 

Gov.  Posey 

P.  S.  just  as  I  had  closed  the  above,  I  rec'd  your  letter  of 
the  26th  ins!  lo  advise  with  M.  Dubois  is  certainly  what  I 
shall  wish  to  do.  But  I  repeat  that  if  his  agency  should  be 
required  he  can  be  most  beneficially  employed  in  the  way  I 
mentioned  in  my  last — and  in  no  other. 


678  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

B.  Parke  to  I\IicriAEL  Brouillette 

ViNCENNES,  Nov.  29tli,  1814 
Har.  Pa.  2S8,  2S0 

Sir: 

You  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Fort  Harrison  to  receive 
and  confer  with  such  Indians  as  may  come  to  that  place. 
For  the  present  no  encouragement  will  be  given  to  the  Indians 
to  come  to  that  place  or  to  siwy  P^i't  of  the  Wabash  Settle- 
ments, with  a  view  of  receiving  presents  from  the  Govern- 
ment, or  any  of  its  agents — but,  such  as  may  come  to  the 
Fort,  you  will  receive  with  kindness  and  endeavour  to  detach 
them  from  the  British  and  their  emissaries  in  the  Indian 
Country  and  to  conciliate  their  affections  towards  the  United 
States. 

The  object  of  your  being  placed  at  Fort  Harrison  is  to  ob- 
tain information  of  what  is  passing  in  the  Indian  Country 
and  for  the  accomplisliment  of  which  you  will  use  your  best 
endeavours.  Your  extensive  acquaintance  amongst  the 
Wabash  Indians  will  enable  you  (if  it  can  be  done  at  all)  to 
collect  correct  information  of  their  numbers,  positions,  views, 
and  the  talks  that  may  be  sent  tliem  from  the  British  or  the 
Illinois  and  Mississippi  Indians,  and  the  manner  in  which 
those  talks  may  be  received — as  also  the  supplies  they  may 
receive  from  the  British — the  channels  through  which  and  the 
places  vfhere,  and  the  Tribes  or  persons  to  whom  delivered. 
In  furtherance  of  this,  you  will  be  furnished  with  a  few  arti- 
cles of  Merchandise  which  you  will  distribute  as  occasion  may 
require. 

There  being  many  of  our  citizens  out  exploring  the  country, 
it  will  not  be  altogether  safe  for  the  Indians  to  hunt,  below 
the  boundary  line.  You  will  therefore  advise  them  not  to 
come  below  Raccoon  Creek  for  that  purpose.  Such  as  come  to 
Fort  Harrison  ought  to  bring  a  flag. 

Yours  respectfully 

Michael  Brouillet  Intopretcr  Parke 

Posey  to  Secretary  op  War 

Jeffersonville,  Ind.  6th  Dec.  1814 

Har.  Pa.  287 

Sui: 

I  liave  just  received  further  communications  from  Judge 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        G79 

Benj.  Parke  of  Vincenncs  [see  above]  relative  to  Indian  af- 
fairs, copies  of  v/hicli  I  herevrith  inclose  to  yon,  thinking  it 
my  duty  to  ali'ord  you  every  information  in  my  power  respect- 
ing Indian  affaij's,  until  I  am  informed  of  the  policy  of  the 
president,  and  receive  instructions,  or  a  notice  to  whom  in- 
structions are  or  may  be  given  upon  the  subject.  I  have  writ- 
ten several  letters  to  you,  and  to  Gen.  Armstrong  before  his 
resignation  and  have  not  received  any  answer  or  instructions 
relative  to  Indian  affairs. 

I  am  very  respectfullj^ 

Your  Obedient  Servant 

Tn.  Posey 
Honble.  Jat.ies  ;Monroe,  Secretary  of  War 

City  of  Washington 

B.  Paeke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  7th  Dec.  1814 
^  Har.  Pa.  317 

Sm: 

Information  was  received  last  evening  from  Capt.  [Fred- 
erick] Sholts  at  Fort  Harrison,  from  which  it  appears  that  a 
few  days  ago  the  principle  chief  now  with  the  Vermillion 
Kickapoos  came  to  that  fort  with  strong  professions  of  amity 
and  good  mil  toward  the  U.  States.  The  Capt.  took  the  chief 
and  his  wife  to  his  Cjuarters  to  lodge,  and  v/hile  they  were 
asleep  one  of  the  strangers  fired  his  piece  at  them  through  a 
window  and  killed  a  squaw. 

The  chief  reported  that  in  a  few  days  a  considerable  num- 
ber of  her  people  might  be  expected  at  the  Fort  all  fiiendly 
disposed.  To  receive  them,  a.^.  also  to  endeavor  to  patch  up 
the  unconscionable  outrage  of  the  rangers,  Mr.  [Touissant] 
Dubois  sen.  will  set  out  for  the  Fort  tomorrow.  It  is  neces- 
sary that  a  prompt  endeavor  should  be  made  to  heal  the  wound 
occasioned  b}^  this  outragious  murder  of  the  sciuaw.  I  would 
go  to  the  Fort  myself  but  I  have  been  in  bad  health  for  some 
time,  and  the  vveather  is  now  extremely  inclement  and  prob- 
ably 1\lv.  Dubois  is  more  competent  than  I  ;.m  to  accomplish 
the  object  in  view. 

Your  letters  of  the  2Sth  ult.  and  tlie  'ith  inst.  I  haA'o  received. 
I  have  tlic  honor  to  be  with  respect  Sir 
Your  Obi.  Scrvt. 

TT-    -n      11         r^       -n^.T...  J^-  Pakke  (Copy) 

His  Excellency  Gov.  PoSEY  ^     '"^ ' 


680  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Dec.  21  1814 

Har.  Pa.  3-21-3 2 J, 

Sir: 

Mr.  [Touissant]  Dubois  retunied  from  Fort  Harrison  oii 
Sunday  last.  The  Kickapoos  chief  had  left  the  Fort  two  or 
three  days  after  the  murder  of  his  wife — meeting  at  that 
place  with  some  men  of  the  same  tribe.  ]\Ir.  Dubois  sent  for 
them  for  him.  He  came  with  his  family  and  profiting  by  the 
occurence  the  little  Otter  a  Kickapoo  Chief  Laposure,  Negro 
Legs  and  La  Frambois  of  the  Weas  and  ]Miamis,  with  about 
three  hundred  men  women  and  children,  also  came  in.  Their 
professions  were  amicable  and  the  Kickapoos  accepted  the 
present  that  I  sent  to  appease  his  resentment  for  the  loss  of  his 
wife.  As  regards  the  Indians,  that  unpleasant  affair  may  be 
considered  as  satisfactorily'-  settled. 

Mr.  Dubois  represents  the  Indians  as  extremely  necessitous. 
Their  arms  out  of  order  Vvith  little  or  no  amunition  and 
their  clothing  miserable.  They  express  a  vrish  that  some  ar- 
rangement could  be  made  that  would  enable  them  to  have 
access  t-  our  traders  and  above  all  that  they  could  get  their 
arms  repaired.  You  will  judge  of  the  propriety  of  the  course 
that  ought  to  be  pursued.  To  hunt  they  must  have  their  arms 
in  order — to  procure  clothing  and  ammunition  they  must  have 
an  opportunity  of  vending  their  skins  and  furs.  As  these 
people  have  made  a  peace  with  the  United  States  they  con- 
sider that  they  have  some  claim  to  the  privilidge  that  they 
ask  and  it  is  very  certain  that  if  they  do  not  obtain  it  from 
us  they  will  seek  it  else  where.  They  v>ill  go  to  the  British. 
The  Emissaries  of  the  latter  are  vigilant  and  are  now  endeav- 
ouring to  reattach  them  to  the  hostile  confederacy.  The  loss 
of  the  Tygress  and  Scorpion  and  the  retreat  of  General 
[George]  Izard  have  been  communicated  to  them  in  a  manner, 
to  give  them  a  high  Idea  of  British  prowess  and  to  induce  a 
belief  that  our  affairs  are  in  the  decline.  Tlie  hope  of  the 
est<iblishment  of  a  post,  for  their  convenience  at  Prairie  Vachc 
on  the  St.  Josephs  near  the  southern  extremity  of  Lake  Michi- 
gan is  still  encouraged  and  the  assurance  repeated  that  if  they 
would  adhere  to  the  British  they  should  be  reinstated  in  all 
their  lands. 

From  the  character  of  the  Indians  their  jealousy  of.  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        681 

Americans  and  attachment  for  the  Britisii  M-hilst  we  are  at 
war  with  the  hatter,  and  their  agents  and  traders  have  the 
means  of  furnishing  them  supplies,  I  consider  pacific  arrange- 
ments of  the  Government  with  them  as  mere  expedients.  Es- 
pecially if  they  are  not  enabled  to  obtain  their  wanted  supplies 
either  in  Donations  from  the  Government  or  from  an  inter- 
course with  our  Traders.  If  from  the  Treaty,  we  are  to  con- 
sider them  friendly,  they  ought  to  enjoy  a  portion  at  least 
of  the  benefits  they  were  accustomed  to  derive  from  a  state 
of  peace. 

If  you  should  think  proper  to  license  any  person  to  trade 
with  the  Indians,  it  might  be  advisable  that  they  should  not 
vend  their  goods  below  Fort  Harrison.  The  irritation  of  the 
people  from  recent  injuries,  and  their  being  some  of  the  most 
inconsiderate  and  unprincipled  men  in  tlie  settlements  on  the 
frontiers  that  ever  disgraced  humanity,  it  might  be  unsafe 
for  the  Indians  for  the  purpose  of  Trade  to  come  below  the 
Fort  and  if  it  should  be  thought  proper  to  repair  their  arms  a 
Gun  Smith  might  be  established  at  the  same  place. 

The  Indians  appeared  to  be  so  urgent  upon  the  subjects  of 
Trade  and  gettijig  their  arms  repaired  tliat  Mr.  Dubois  prom- 
ised them  that  ho  would  endeavor  to  obtain  an  answer  to  their 
application  in  a  month  or  six  Vv^eeks. 

Totally  ignorant  of  tlie  views  of  the  President  I  have  been 
more  particular  in  stateing  these  subjects  to  you.  If  it  should 
comport  with  the  views  of  the  Government  to  grant  the  re- 
quest of  the  Indians  possibly  they  might  be  as  conveniently 
accommodated  at  Fort  Wayne  or  the  Deleware  Tov/ns  as  at 
Foil;  Harrison. 

Mr.  Dubois  volunteered  to  go  to  Fort  Harrison  but  as  he 
was  detained  some  days  longer  than  I  expected  he  would  have 
been,  I  think  he  ought  to  have  an  allowance  especially  as  I 
consider  his  services  meritorious.  He  was  absent  ten  days. 
I  had  to  soul  Mr.  [Josepli]  Barron  to  interpret  for  him  with 
him — he  has  been  accustomed  to  receive  an  extra  allovrance 
for  extra  services  of  this  kind.  He  was  also  employed  ^^^th 
Capt.  [Pierre]  Andre  in  the  month  of  November  twenty-one 
days.  During  Barrons  absence,  I  had  to  employ  a  m:'n  to  act 
for  him  here  promising  to  recommend  him  to  you  ^or  such 
w.iges  as  you  might  think  propei'  to  allow  for  Dubois,  I 
would  mention  three  dollars  per  day  and  Barron  one  dollar 

40— 226G1 


682  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

and  the  necessary  expenses  of  each  and  to  the  other  Mr. 
Payette  fifty  cents  per  day.  The  several  claims  are  submit- 
ted for  your  consideration. 

Your  letter  of  the  11th  inst.  has  been  received.  A  Ranger 
of  Capt.  [Frederick]  Slioltes  company  is  suspected  of  having 
murdered  the  Kickapoo  squaw.  He  is  in  close  confinement  at 
the  Fort — whether  he  will  be  tried  by  a  court  martial  or  by 
our  Territorial  Court  I  know  not.  From  a  late  act  of  the 
Legislature  it  would  seem  that  I  have  no  authority  to  inter- 
fere. But  however  aggravated  his  guilt  or  decisive  t^ie  proof 
I  entertain  no  expcctatio]i  from  past  experience  of  his  being 
punished.  Since  ]riy  residence  here  several  outragous  mur- 
ders have  been  committed  on  the  Indians — No  one  has  been 
punished.  In  one  very  clear  case,  the  Grand  Jury  refused  to 
find  a  Bill.  These  circumstances  induced  me  to  endeavor  to 
effect  a  prompt  accommodation  according  to  the  Indian  mode, 
with  the  Kickapoos  and  it  is  highly  probable  that  it  is  all  the 
redress  they  will  ever  receive. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  very  respectfully 
Your  Obt.  Servant 
Gov.  Posey  ^'  P^^e 

Posey  to  B.  Parke 

Jeffersonville  25th,  Dec.  1814 


Sir: 


Har.  Pa.  31S-320 


Yours  of  the  21  inst  [see  above]  I  received  by  last  mail  and 
shall  transmit  a  cop3^  to  the  secretary  of  war.  I  have  not 
received  answers  to  any  of  my  conmninications  to  the  depart- 
ment of  v/ar  upon  Indian  affairs,  and  am  at  a  loss  to  imagine 
a  reason.  Should  it  bo  the  opinion  of  the  President  or  secre- 
tary of  war  that  Governor  of  the  Territory  already  possess 
sufficient  authority — clothed  with  the  pov/ers  of  agency  rela- 
tive to  the  superintendency  of  Indian  aHairs  yet  it  would  be 
necessary  to  receive  instructions  as  relates  to  the  policy  of  the 
Gen.  Goverjiment  toward  the  Indians,  particularly  those  tribes 
who  come  in  with  professions  of  friendship.  I  know  nothing 
of  the  results  or  conditions  of  the  treaty  v/hich  took  place  last 
summer  at  Greenville.  It  shurely  Vvill  be  the  best  policy  and 
most  co]iducive  to  the  j^ublic.  goo!  under  existing  circum- 
stances (so  large  a  num])er  of  Indians  having  come  in  Avith 
frie}idly  overtures  to  take  shelter  under  our  goverinnent)  to 


HARRISON: 

favor  their  friendly  offers,  and  to  aid  and  assist  them.  If  we 
neglect  or  reject  them  the  British  eniisaries  and  hostile  tribes 
will  be  actively  engaged  in  their  endeavours  to  gain  theni  over 
to  join  our  enemy.  From  what  I  can  learn,  there  are  at  pres- 
ent among  those  Indians  who  have  come  in  as  friends  several 
Indians  trying  to  effect  this  purpose. 

You  say  three  hundred  have  lately  come  into  Vincennes  and 
that  you  have  directed  they  shall  be  encamped  at  or  near  Fort 
Harrison,  where  all  that  have,  or  may  come  in  to  your  parts, 
are  ordered  to  rendezuou.s.,  to  meet  with  such  supplies  as  can 
be  procured  for  them.  I  know  of  no  arrangements  made  by 
the  Gen.  Government  to  supply  the  Indians.  There  is  a  law 
to  supply  the  Indians.  There  is  a  law  of  Congress  to  license 
persons  to  trade  with  the  Indians,  \^ithin  their  own  limits; 
and  there  is  a  law  of  the  Territory  to  license  persons  to  trade 
with  them,  within  the  part  of  the  Territor^^  to  which  the  In- 
dian title  has  been  extinguished.  I  shall  grant  a  license  under 
the  Territorial  law,  to  a  person  to  trade  v/ith  them  at  Fort 
Harrison,  but  wi; h  -'ou  to  recommend  a  suitable  per;  on.  The 
Indians  may  exp..-  some  present/.  They  must  be  of  a  very 
partial  nature,  unlill  I  can  hear  from  the  Gen.  Government. 
1  hope  Government  will  make  provision  for  the  friendly  In- 
dians and  appoint  some  particular  station  where  they  may 
receive  supplies. 

With  respect  to  a  compensation  to  j\Ir.  Dubois  and  others, 
who  have  or  may  be  engaged  in  Indian  affairs,  I  will  endeavor 
to  be  informed  upon  that  subject,  and  will  give  you  informa- 
tion. I  am  very  happy  to  find  that  ]\Ir.  Dubois  has  had  the 
address  to  appease  and  bring  about  a  reconciliation  by  a  suita- 
ble present  to  the  chief  whose  wife  was  murdered  by  the  U.  S. 
Ranger.  I  hope  the  fellow  will  meet  a  punishment  justly  due 
him,  for  perpetrating  such  a  horrid  crime. 

I  have  already  vested  you  with  such  authority  as  I  possess, 
which  from  a  wrait  of  information  or  instructions  from  the 
Gen.  Government,  I  am  not  able  to  define,  particularly  as  to 
the  policy  to  be  observed.  I  am  well  assured  you  will  do  all 
in  your  power  to  promote  the  interest  of  the  U.  States. 

I  am  very  respectfully 
Your  Obt.  Servt. 

Til.  FOSEY 

Honblc.  Judge  Ben.  Parke  Vincennes     (Copy) 


684  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  2Tth  Doc,  1814 

Har.  Pa.  315,  J16 

Sir: 

I  herewith  inclose  to  you  sundry  documents,  which  I  think 
essential  that  you  and  the  President  should  see.  I  have  writ- 
ten several  letters  to  you  which  I  thought  necessary  that  you 
should  be  made  acquainted  with  their  contents.  The  Indian 
affairs  in  this  Territory  are  becoming  very  important  and  re- 
quire the  attention  of  the  Gen.  Government.  1  am  cntireh- 
unacquainted  with  the  policy  to  be  observed  toward  the  Indiari 
tribes,  who  are  daily  coming  in.  I  know  of  no  provision  made 
to  afford  supplies  in  this  Territory  and  should  they  not  meet 
v.'ith  supplies  and  attention  from  our  Government  they  most 
assuredly  will  go  to  the  enemy  Vv4io  are  ready  to  supply  them 
and  are  making  every  exertion  to  gain  them  over.  I  have 
prevailed  with  Judge  [Benjamin]  Parke  who  resides  in  the 
quarter  where  the  Lidians  generally  come  in,  to  use  his  exer- 
tions to  conciliate  their  affectioris,  and  furnish  them  occasion- 
ally with  pr,)visions  and  clothirig — such  articles  as  they  are 
really  in  great  need  of  and  which  probably  may  be  obtained 
from  the  merchants  of  Vincennes.  The  whole  of  them  will  be 
encamped  at  or  near  Ft.  Harrison  with  liberty  to  hunt  on  the 
frontiers  and  trade  with  such  person  as  I  shall  license  for  the 
purpose  under  a  Territorial  lavr.  They  are  at  present  in  a 
verj^  distressed  situation,  as  j^ou  may  observe  from  Judge 
Parke's  letter.  There  are  about  twenty  families  come  into, 
or  near  Valony.  I  have  been  informed  they  are  encamped  on 
Sandy  Creek  [see  Nov.  23  above],  fifteen  or  twenty  miles 
north  of  Valony  about  70  or  80  miles  from  this,  in  Washing- 
ton county.  They  request  to  be  allowed  to  hunt  and  trade. 
The  inhabitants  on  the  frontiers  appear  to  be  well  satisfied 
that  they  should  remain  there,  thinking  it  will  afford  a  degree 
of  safety  from  the  depredations  of  the  hostile  Indians.  I  be- 
lieve I  shall  license  some  person  to  trade  with  them.  ]Mr.  Du- 
bois will  give  every  assistance  in  his  power  to  Judr.e  Parlve. 

I  am  very  Respectfully 

your  obt.  Pervt. 

Til.  Posey 
Hon.  James  Monroe,  Sec,  of  War 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        G85 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  Ind.  Ter.  14th  Jan.  1815 

Har.  Pa.  S38-3JfO 

Sir: 

Your  letter  of  the  22nd  Ult.  came  to  liand  by  last  mail,  the 
contents  of  which  shall  be  attended  to.  I  have  in  sundry  let- 
ters addressed  to  the  department  of  war,  been  verj^  particular 
to  give  information  as  relates  to  Indian  affairs  in  this  Terri- 
tory. One  of  the  16th  Sept.  last  to  Genl.  Armstrong  and  to 
yourself  one  of  the  3rd  Nov.  the  12th  26th  and  28th  one  of 
the  6th  Dec.  and  of  the  27th  [see  above].  I  should  not  feel 
concerned  were  I  certain  those  letters  or  any  of  them  reached 
the  department  of  War,  but  from  no  acknowledgement  of  the 
receipt  of  any  of  them,  I  am  fearfull  they  have  miscarried. 

Your  letter  of  the  22nd  Ult,  [not  found]  mentions  that  "It 
has  been  intimated  to  this  Dept.  that  several  of  the  hostile 
tribes  within  the  neighbourhood  of  your  Territory  arc  desir- 
ous of  renewing  with  the  United  States  a  state  of  peace." 

The  information  conveyed  in  my  letters  was  respecting  In- 
dians that  had  actually  come  into  our  settlements  with  their 
fa]  lilies  with  a  desire  of  being  received  upon  friendly  terms 
and  treated  in  a  friendly  manner  in  affording  [a  sheet  gone 
here] 

P.  S. 

I  am  informed  by  the  Honble.  Jonathan  Jennings  repre- 
sentative from  this  Territory  in  the  House  of  Representatives 
in  Congress  that  he  had  it  from  the  Department  of  War,  that 
not  more  than  one  Maj.  Genl.  and  two  Brigadiers  will  be  com- 
missioned for  the  Militia  of  this  Territory.  In  that  case  I 
recommend  Joseph  Bartholomew  as  Maj.  Gen.  Ind  Militia  aiid 
James  Dill  for  the  Eastern  half  of  the  Territory  and  Walter 
Wilson  for  the  Western  half  of  the  Territo)y  as  Brigadiers 
Ind.  Militia. 

T.  P. 

Pierre  Andre  to  Posey 

VlNCi:NNES  8th  Feb.  1815 
Har.  Pa.  i^G,  SIJ 

Dear  Sir  : 

I  herein  give  you  the  information  received  by  Lt.  [Hya- 
cinth] Lasselle  respecting  the  Indians.     An  Indian  states  to 


686  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Lt.  Laselle  that  the  Indians  have  received  fifty  cag's  of  povrder, 
lead  and  flints  in  proportion  at  the  St.  Joseplis  and  he  was 
also  informed  by  one  of  the  Kicliapoos  that  in  the  course  of 
six  weeks  it  v.'as  tlie  intention  of  the  Indians  to  make  an 
attack  on  Ft.  Harrison  arid  would  return  to  the  British  ini- 
mediatelj*  after  the  attack.  He  heard  one  of  the  Miami  In- 
dians also  observe  on  tlie  parade  one  day  on  seeing  the 
me]-!  parade,  that  they  should  not  do  it  longer  than  six  weeks. 
:;e  ^,'as  also  informed  by  the  Indian  called  Parish  Constance 
that  Lapoo.  ■  r  had  received  three  invitations  from  the  British 
since  last  fa;!,  Lapoosier  has  also  invited  Little  Eyes  v;ith  his 
party  to  go  and  join  him  at  his  camp. 

One  of  the  Kickapo^s  has  told  an  old  Frenchman  who  he 
considered  as  a  particular  friend  that  he  will  give  him  infor- 
mation when  the  Indians  intend  making  the  attack  on  the  fort. 
The  Indians  are  somevviiat  dissatisfied  that  Government  has 
not  given  presents  except  what  they  purcliase  with  their 
peltry. 

I  have  two  Indians  in  confi:iement  at  the  Garrison  for  mis- 
behaving themselves  or  in  consequence  of  their  having  at- 
tempted to  kill  me. 

I  am  with  respect 
Your  Humble  Scn't. 

Pierre  Andrie,  Caryl .  U.  S.  Pumgers  (Copy) 
Gov.  Posey,  Jeffersonville 

•  B.  Parke  to  Posey 

Vincennes  Feb.  15,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  340-0 5 2 

Sir: 

I  returned  from  Corydon  on  the  niglit  of  the  12  inst.  Dur- 
ing my  absence  six  horses  were  taken  from  the  other  side  of 
the  river  immediately  opposite  the  village  supposed  to  be 
stolen  by  the  Indians.  A  short  time  since  tliree  Potavvato- 
mies  came  to  Ft.  Harrison  one  of  whom  for  his  indolence  and 
ma);  -O's  was  chastised  by  the  Commanding  Ofiicer,  leaving 
the  fort  with  the  others,  he  v.ounded  several  cattle  v.'ithin 
view  of  the  Fort  and  escaped.  The  other  tsvo  vv'^ere  taken, 
but  upon  the  ad\ice  of  I\L  [Touissaint]  Dubois  were  after- 
wards discharged.     On  the  afternoon  of  CAinday  last  a  small 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        687 

party  of  Indians  same  to  Biisseron  settlonent,  killed  a  man, 
wounded  another  badly  and  took  two  boys  prisoners.  A  man 
is  also  missing  from  the  same  settlement  supposed  to  be  killed 
or  taken.  It  is  more  than  prol^able  that  this  mischief  was 
done  by  the  Potawatomies,  but  as  Little  Eyes  and  his  party 
and  other  bands  of  the  Miamies  were  in  the  neighborhood  of 
the  frontiers  and  might  h-.i  fallen  in  with  by  some  of  our 
scouts,  I  directed  the  inter]n*eter  as  soon  I  learned  the  above 
to  go  to  Little  Eyes  and  advise  him  of  what  had  happened 
and  for  him  and  the  other  Miamis  to  remove  to  the  neighbour- 
hood of  the  Delav\^ares  on  White  river.  I  have  often  admon- 
ished the  Miamis  of  the  danger  of  hunting  near  the  frontier 
settlements  (see  my  instructions  to  Brouilette  Nov.  29th).  As 
I  had  no  evidence  of  the  Ivliamis  having  committeed  an  act  of 
hostilit}^  since  the  treaty  I  thought  that  justice  and  humanity 
required  this.  I  fear  the  precaution  may  be  useless  as  I  am 
since  informed  that  a  considerable  party  of  Citizens  rendez- 
voused and  marched  yesterday  with  the  avowed  purpose  of 
exterminating  Little  Ej^es  party  and  other  bands  friends  or 
foes,  within  their  reach.  The  injuries  v/hich  the  Indians  have 
inflicted  on  the  inhabitants  of  the  frontiers  are  sufficient  to 
exasperate  them  to  a  high  degree,  but  that  men  having  some 
pretensions  to  civilization  and  professing  to  be  Christians 
should  under  any  circum;  tances  manifest  such  a  Dial^olical 
disposition  can  scarcely  be  believed.  Yet  I  am  told  that  a 
preacher  of  the  Gospel  is  at  the  head  of  this  party  of  llrA- 
men. 

I  herewith  enclose  you  a  letter  I  have  received  from  Lieut. 
[Hyacinth]  Lasselle.  I  think  it  better  to  send  you  the  Orig- 
inal than  to  attempt  any  translation.  I  consider  it  important 
not  that  I  believe  there  is  any  probability  that  the  English  vrili 
aid  the  Indians  with  Cannon  in  an  attack  on  Ft.  Harrison,  or 
that  there  are  five  thousand  Indian  v/arriors  at  St.  Joseph,  Chi- 
cago, an.'  Udiowaky  ?,  but  it  shows  the  diligence  ajid  zeal  of  the 
agent  and  party  and  of  tliat  power  in  disseminating  amongst 
tlie  Indians  whateve]-  will  have  the  tendency  of  strengthening 
their  prejudice  and  increasing  their  irritation  against  the  U. 
States.  It  is  highly  probable  that  Little  Eyes  is  correct  as 
regards  the  Miamis.  What  motive  could  the  m^an  have  in 
misr>  presenting  the  people  of  his  own  nation  that  Labossieur 
is  a  British  partisan.     I  have  been  convinced  for  three  months 


688  INDIANA   HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

but  whatever  the  feelings  and  views  of  the  ]\IiamiK  may  be, 

situated  as  they  are,  in  respect  to  our  settlements,  and  the 

hostile  Indians  they  cannot  remain  neutral.      They  cannot 

muster  more  than  four  hundred  warriors  and  are  unable  to 

oppose  their  hostile  Neighbors  the  Potawatomies.      Besides 

the  hostile  parties  that  attack  the  frontiers  commonly  retreat 

through  their  country,   to   excite   suspicions   against  and  to 

draw  our  scouts  amongst  them.     They  must  be  removed  from 

the  Country,  and  taken  under  the  immediate  protection  of  the 

Un,  States  or  they  v/ill  shortly  in  all  probability  be  arranged 

with  the  hostile  Indians  against  us.     With  respect  to  stolen 

horses.    It  appears  that  several  that  have  been  taken  since  the 

treaty  are  in  the  possession  of  the  Miamis  and  Kickapoos. 

They  allege  that  they  procured  them  from  the  Potawatomies. 

It  may  be  so.     I  have  urged  them  to  bring  in  all  that  have 

been  taken  since  that  period,  and  that  their  excuse  of  having 

purchased  them  from  the  Potav/atomies  was  inadmissable. 

Agreeably  to  your  instructions   I  have  employed  a   Gun 

Smith  to  work  for  the  friendly  Indians.      You  v/ill  see  the 

terms  upon  which  he  is  engaged  and  the  instructions  under 

which  he  is  to  work  for  the  enclosed  notes  to  Brooks  &  Brou- 

lette. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be   vitli  great  respect 

Your  Obedient  Servant. 

tT-    -c^      n         n       -n^M^,.  B-  Parke 

His  Excellency  Gov.  Posey 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  18th  Feby  1815 

Har.  Pa.  31,5 

Sir: 

Your  letter  of  the  7th  Dec.  1814  I  have  received  by  the  last 
mail.  It  was  addressed  to  me  at  Kaskaskia  and  no  doubt  has 
been  the  rounds  of  several  hundred  miles,  with  a  detention  at 
the  several  post  offices.  I  am  sorry  it  did  not  come  to  hand 
in  due  time  it  would  have  been  very  satisfactory  and  is  so  at 
the  present  time  as  having  instruction  from  the  Department 
of  War  relative  to  Indian  affairs,  tho  I  have  acted  pretty  much 
in  conformety  to  the  instructions  upon  my  own  responsibility, 
but  shall  now  proceed  with  confidence. 

It  is  to  be  apprehended  that  the  Bi'itish  will  set  the  Indians 
on  our  frontier  settlements  early  in  the  ensuing  spring.  I 
herewith  enclose  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  received  within  a  few 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        689 

days  from  Capt.  Pierre  Andre  [Feb.  8  above]  in  command  at 
Fort  Harrison. 

The  friendly  Indians  are  generally  encamped  in  the  neigh- 
bourhood of  Ft.  Harrison  and  a  fcvv  near  Valony  and  the 
frontier  of  Franklin  county.  I  have  licensed  proper  charac- 
ters to  trade  with  them.  The  British  arc  using  every  en- 
deavor to  draw  them  off  from  us. 

Your  instructions  at  any  time  will  be  gladly  received,  and 
executed  as  promptly  as  possible. 

I  am  with  great  respet. 

Your  Obt.  Servant 

Hon.  James  Monroe  Sec.  of  War  '^^^'  ^^^^^ 

P.  S.  I  shall  take  the  necessary  steps  to  be  prepared  for 
any  invasion  of  the  Indians  on  the  frontiers  of  this  Territory. 

The  friendly  Indians  have  had  some  partial  presents  made 
them,  but  they  are  more  unhappy  at  beirig  deprived  from  get- 
ting whiskey  than  any  other  circumstance. 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jefferson viLLE  21st  Feb.  1815 

-,  Hai:  Pa.  S^S 

Sir: 

I  herewith  enclose  to  you  a  copy  of  a  letter  just  received 
from  Judge  B.  Parke  [Feb.  15  above]  merely  to  show  you  the 
indefatigable  industry  of  British  agents  among  the  Indians. 

Should  the  Indians  make  their  threatened  attack  I  have  no 
doubt  we  shall  be  prepared  to  receive  them.  I  have  ordered 
a  detail  of  militia  to  be  held  in  readiness  to  m;!rch  at  the 
shortest  notice.  The  Rangers  and  regulars  at  Vincennes, 
Fort  Harrison  and  the  frontiers  of  the  Territory  are  at  pres- 
ent under  the  co)nmand  of  Maj.  Zachary  Taylor  of  the  U.  S. 
Infantry.     He  is  a  very  attentive  officer  and  will  do  his  duty. 

I  should  be  happy  to  hear  that  an  expedition  was  concerted 

to  undertake  an  enterprise  up  the  Mississip]n  against  the  Bi'it- 

ish  and  Indians  that  may  be  embodying  to  inake  a  stroke  upon 

our  frontiers.  t  ir  n 

I  am  very  respectfully 

:  ,       :y       ;:  Your  Obt.  Servt. 

Til.  Posey 
Honblc.  Col.  James  Monroe,  Sect,  of  War 

City  of  Washington 


690  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  May,  10,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  6',5/^ 

Sir: 

The  regular  soldiers  in  Garrison  at  this  place  v/ere  mostly 
enlisted  for  the  war,  and  I  suppose  will  shortly  be  discharged. 
One  Company  of  Rangers  v/as  discharged  the  beginning  of 
this  month.  The  balance  of  that  Corps  that  is  now  in  this 
quarter  must  be  discharged  in  about  six  weeks.  What  then 
v/ill  become  of  Fort  Harrison?  As  to  the  Fort  at  this  place 
it  might  be  abandoned  with  propriety,  but  I  would  respectfully 
suggest  the  necessity  of  Fort  Harrison  being  occupied.  Pos- 
sibly it  might  be  best  to  remove  the  Foi't  to  this  boundary  at 
Raccoon  Creek  or  the  Vermillion  River.  I  have  heard  that 
Col.  [James]  Miller  v/ith  his  Rogt.  is  on  his  march  to  one  of 
the  Territories.  Probably  you  may  see  him  and  he  may  have 
authority  to  arrange  in  respect  to  tlie  above.  I  have  just 
written  to  Col.  [William]  Russell  Vvdio  is  still  at  St.  Louis,  on 
the  Subject. 

Respectfully, 

Your  Obedient  Serva.nt 
B.  Parke 
His  Excelency  Gov.  Posey 

P.  S.  If  it  were  possible  for  you  to  visit  us  and  remain  here 
a  few  Vv^eeks,  I  am  confid(-nt  it  would  be  highly  beneficial  to 
this  part  of  the  Territory. 

Laframboise  to  Parke 

Fort  Harrison  TJay  17,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  332 

My  father: 

I  am  sorrj?"  to  tell  you  tliat  the  chiefs  v/ho  were  sent  v/ith 
your  speech  to  the  Patav/atomies  and  Kickai-oos  have  re- 
turned— for  this  reason — I  ]:new  that  the  Bi'itisli  have  in\'ited 
them  to  their  country  and  tluit  they  Vv^ere  gone.- 

My  father — I  listen  with  pleasure  to  your  sjnjeeh.  It  v/ould 
be  unnecessary  foi*  us  to  go  to  the  Kickapoos  and  Potav/ato- 
mies  knowing  they  could  tell  us  nothing  but  lies. 

My  father — You  ]  now  th:it  the  Kickapoos  and  Potavv ato- 
mies told  you  at  Vincenr.es  tliat  they  had  sent  and  Express  to 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        G91 

their  nations  for  you — and  that  they  consciiled  to  send  the 
express  at  Fort  Harrison.     They  told  you  a  lie. 

My  father — I  bch'eve  that  the  Britisli  have  sent  for  the  In- 
dians to  inform  them  that  peace  has  been  made  between  the 
U.  S.  and  Great  Britain. 

My  father — the  British  sent  for  us  (the  Weas) — we  are 
determined  not  to  g'o. 

Laframboise 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  May  19  1815 

Har.  Pa.  54.? 

Sir: 

I  have  just  received  an  Express  from  Fort  Harrison  by 
which  I  am  informed  that  the  Kickapoos  and  Potavv-atomies 
are  gone  to  the  British.  LaFrambois  says  that  the  Idiamis 
will  not  go.  I  will  &r]id  you  a  c  .py  of  his  speech  [see  May  17 
above]  by  next  mail  and  which  I  have  not  time  now  to  copy 
as  the  mail  is  closing.  I  am  novv^  satisfied  that  my  arrange- 
ment with  the  Indians  v»dll  end  in  nothing. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  respectfully  sir  Your  Obt,  Servant. 

B.  Parke 
Gov.  Posey 
P.  S.  Your  letter  of  the  12  inst.  is  received. 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  May  25th  1815 

Har.  Pa.  C50-.J(U 

Sir: 

I  informed  you  in  my  letter  of  the  18th  inst.  of  the  arri^•al 
of  the  Owl  and  two  other  Indians.  The  one  his  son,  tlie  other 
called  Popping  Dick  [see  index  McGowan].  I  put  them  in  a 
house  v/here  I  was  in  hopes  tlicy  v/ould  be  safe.  Frid<'iy  night 
a  gi.;i  was  fired  througli  the  door  Vvdiich  wounded  Dick  in  the 
foot.  He  M'as  sent  to  tlie  fort  and  is  undo'  the  care  of  the 
surgeon.  The  Owl  an.d  his  son  I  took  to  my  own  liou^e.  A 
trader  starting  for  Fort  Harrison  on  Monday,  I  got  them  jn:!- 
vately  to  his  boat  and  v\'as  in  hopes  of  bein; .  rid  of  them.  Tlie 
trader  finding  it  as  lie  thouglit,  dangerous  to  proceed  returned 
next  morning'.     I  shall  have  some  diil'iculty  iu  g(;tLing  them  oil' 


692  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

as  I  have  been  in  formed  over  and  over  that  all  the  road  from 
this  to  the  frontier  are  constantly  patroled  for  the  purpose 
of  intercepting  and  destroying"  these  people  on  their  return. 
This  is  a  sad  state  of  society  and  such  as  I  hope  never  again  to 
witness.  Believing  that  some  parties  of  citizens  might  prob- 
ably attempt  to  do  some  injuiy  to  the  friendly  Indians,  I  ap- 
prized them  of  it,  advised  them  to  remove  which  they  were 
to  do  on  ]\Ionday.  Since  I  was  told  that  a  large  party  of  citi- 
zens have  passed  the  frontiers  determined  to  put  to  death 
every  Indian  they  meet.  I  do  not  believe  that  they  will  find 
the  Weas. 

The  Ov/1  inforjns  me  that  he  heard  the  same  report.s  in  the 
Ind'-n  country  of  which  I  have  lately  informed  you  that  the 
Kic)'  ooos  and  Potawatomies  are  not  to  be  relyed  on  and  that 
Pec       is  clearly  for  and  gone  to  the  English. 

I  iclose  you  a  letter  I  have  just  received  from  the  Col. 
[William]  Russel).  As  you  are  in  full  possession  of  all  the 
infoi  lation  relative  to  the  situation  of  affairs  here  you  vrill 
deteii.iine  on  the  measures  it  is  necessary  to  adopt.  [Pierre] 
Andre's  Company  was  discharged  the  first  of  this  month  but 
I  believe  he  a^  his  Lieut.  [Hya^  inth]  Lassal"  would  enter 
again;  if  nec^_  ;ary  could  soon  get  his  company  together. 
[Frederick]  Sholts  I  believe  intends  to  leave  the  Service.  He 
has  promised  me  to  write  you  respecting  his  Company. 

The  party  mentioned  by  Labousiur  was  the  one  that  de- 
feated ]\Ir.  Morrison.  Twenty-five  of  them  returned  by  La- 
bosiurs  camp  with  four  horses  and  some  other  plunder  of 
]Morrison's  Camp,  and  Mr.  Boyez  of  this  place  prisoner  thay 
had  taken  anolier  prisoner  but  being  badly  wounded  they 
Tomhav/.ced  him.  One  of  Morrisons  party  is  still  not  ac- 
counted for.  Sin-ma-dall  [Six  Medals]  mentioned  by  La- 
bossiur  is  a  son  of  the  Five  Medals  who  signed  the  Treaty  at 
Greenville. 

I  most  earnestly  repeat  my  request  tliat  you  will  imariedi- 

ately  visit  this  part  of  the  Territory.     I  assure  you  I  thir.k 

it  indispensibly  necessary  and  am  happy  to  learn  that  youi' 

health  is  so  completely  restored  that  you  could  do  it  witliout 

the  least  personal  inconvenience. 

Yours  respectfully 

^  B.  Parke 

Governor  Posey 

P.  S. 

Since  v/riting  the  above  a  man  has  come  in  who  had  been 


HARRISON:     MESSAGP^S  AND  LETTERS        693 

with  the  party  of  citizens  I  have  mentloiied.  He  loft  them 
(from  60  to  100  in  no.)  beyond  the  frontiers  on  the  trail  of 
the  retreating-  enemy  Indians  and  determined  to  follow  them 
till  last  night.  If  in  this  pursuit  friendly  Indians  be  fallen  in 
with  they  cannot  be  readily  distinguished  from  Enemy  In- 
dians. Of  the  danger  to  which  they  ought  to  subjected  on 
such  occasions  I  have  repeatedly  informed  them  and  from  it 
endeavored  to  convince  them  of  the  necessity  of  active  execu- 
tions on  their  part  to  prevent  the  approach  of  the  hostile  In- 
dians. But  I  believe  if  they  have  committed  no  act  of  hos- 
tility it  is  very  certain  that  they  have  never  raised  hands  to 
oppose  the  passage  through  their  county  of  the  hostile  Indians 
from  the  upper  country.  However  they  have  frequently  given 
information  at  Fort  Harrison  of  some  approach. 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES,  May  25,  1815  Evening 

Har.  Pa.  337 

Sir: 

I  do  not  know  that  as  Governor  you  have  authority  to  order 
Militia  into  the  Service  of  the  U.  S.  and  you  will  determine 
whether  Col.  [William]  Russells  Letter  confers  any. 

As  to  my  opinion,  I  really  think  that  two  companies  ought 
to  be  immediately  raised  for  the  protection  of  the  Wabash 
settlements.  Possibly  one,  ^vith  [Frederick]  Sholts  Company 
as  a  mere  defensive  measure  might  answer. 

If  you  should  determine  to  call  any  men  into  service  please 
state  specially  the  terms  and  conditions  upon  which  they  are 
to  serve.  The  period  of  service — pay — whether  found — or  to 
be  found  by  the  public  in  rations — to  be  mounted  or  dis- 
mounted— and  the  number  officers — non-commissioned  officers 
and  privates  to  a  company. 

Sholts'  Company  as  I  have  iiiformed  you  goes  out  of  service 
the  beginning  of  July.  The  Captain  wishes  me  to  inform  you 
that  although  he  is  desirous  of  quitting  the  Service  he  will  if 
necessr^ry  continue  for  a  term  longer.  He  can  have  a  com- 
pany i.imediately  after  his  Ranger  command  expires.  I  think 
him  a  good  officer  as  much  so  at  least,  as  any  you  will  probably 
get.  He  say.i  that  his  Lieut.  [Enoch]  Blasdel  will  continue 
if  desired.     He  is  a  clever  fellow. 

Captain  [Pierre]  Andre  and  Lieut  [Hyacinth]  Lasselle  have 
called  upon  us  and  requested  me  to  inform  you  that  they  v.ill 


694  INDIANA  IliSTORlCAL  COLLECTIONS 

enter  ag'ain  with  pleasure.  I  beJiovc  you  could  not  get  two  bet- 
ter men  liere.  If  desired  they  can  have  a  company  in  two  or 
three  days.  The  other  Subaltern  [Harvey]  Gregg  \Vd,  join 
them,  at  a  word  if  notified  of  it. 

John  F.  Myers  and  Pierre  Laplante  have  requested  me  to 
mention  them  as  desirous  of  raising  a  companj^  of  volunteers 
for  the  defence  of  the  frontiers.  The  former,  formerly  be- 
longed to  Captain  [William]  Perry's  Rangers  and  the  latter 
to  [Parmemis]  Becke  .  and  Andres.  They  think  that  they 
could  raise  m  company  with  ease.  How  well  they  would  officer 
one  I  do  not  know.     Captain  Sholts  thinks  it  would  not  do. 

After  the  first  next  month  of  this  Ranger  Corps,  Sholts 
Company  only,  continues  in  service  there  ought  to  be  from 
fifty  to  one  hundred  men  in  Garrison  at  Fort  Harrison. 

Should  Militia  be  called  for  and  it  be  so  arranged  it  would 
be  much  the  best  that  they  should  be  furnished  by  the  publick, 
Rangers  furnishing  themselves  is  an  abominable  feature  in 
that  system  and  the  contractor  here  says  he  is  full}^  competent 
to  furnish  what  will  be  necessary  foi  two  companies. 
Yours  respectfully 

B.  Parke 
Governor  PoSEY 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  Ind.  Ter.  SOtli  T»Iay,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  S.10 

Sir: 

I  herewith  inclose  sundry  documents  recently  re^  .dved  from 
Judge  B.  Parke  who  acts  as  deputy  Indian  Agent  at  Vinccnnes, 
Fort  Harrison  etc.  You  will  observe  from  those  documents 
that  our  frontier  is  very  much  infested  by  hostile  Indians.  I 
am  fearful  from  information  received  through  various  chan- 
nels that  the  Indians  will  be  extremely  troublesome.  Scout- 
ing p.Tties  are  not  sufllcient  to  keep  them  under;  probably  it 
will  be  necessary  to  send  a  coiisiderable  force  into  the  Indian 
country  to  bring  them  to  a  right  understanding.  This  is  a 
measure  to  be  considered  by  the  departm.cnt  of  war.  Certain 
it  is,  that  some  s])eody  and  effectual  measures  should  be 
ado])ted  to  r  ve  security  to  our  frontier  settlers.  True  it  is, 
that  I  could  and  have  at  sundry  times  ordred  out  the  Militia 
to  scour  along  the  fi'ontiers,  but  this  mode  proved  inelfectual. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        695 

The  time  of  service  of  the  rangers  has  g'enerally  expired  and 
we  have  no  regular  forces,  You  will  please  to  write  me  upon 
the  foregoing  subjects. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  vrith  great  respect. 
Your  Obedient  Servant. 


Honbl.  the  Acting  Sect,  of  Vv'ar, 
City  of  \Vashtngton 


Til  Posey 


Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
Jefferson viLTE  Indiana  Territory  August  3rd,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  Shl-Sh^ 

Sir: 

The  rangers  having  served  tlie  time  for  which  they  were 
raised  and  being  discharged  and  the  hostile  bands  of  Indian.s 
committing  depredations  upiai  our  defenceless  inhabitants,  I 
ordered  several  companies  of  -Militia  to  guard  tlie  frontiers, 
but  before  they  were  organized  I  received  a  requisition  from 
Col.  [William]  Russell  (who  vras  in  cominand  of  this  district) 
to  have  two  complete  companies  of  mounted  l^Iihtia  to  supply 
the  place  of  the  rangers.  I  then  declined  ordering  out  all  the 
Militia  infantry  and  have  agreeably  to  the  requisition  raised 
two  volunteer  companies  of  mounted  I\Iilitia  to  serve  six 
months  except  sooner  discliarged.  As  soon  as  they  were 
mustered  into  service  the  muster-rolls  were  sent  q\\  to  the  com- 
mandant at  St.  Louis  supposing  it  to  be  the  proper  channel 
to  report  through  and  the  commandant  (Col.  Russell)  re- 
turned the  muster-rolls.  It  being  necessary  they  should  be  re- 
ported to  the  department  of  vrar  through  some  channels,  I 
have  herewith  enclosed  them  accordingly  The  IMount;  d  vol- 
unteers above  mentioned  cannot  furnish  themselves  v/ith  ra- 
tions and  forage.  Col.  Russell  gave  orders  that  the  contra!  tor 
should  furnish  rations  but  has  r\\v  le  no  arra  igement  for  sup- 
plying forage.  I  could  wish  to  have  instructions  upon  that 
head  and  it  will  be  necessary  that  tliey  should  be  attended  in 
case  of  sickness  by  a  physician.  The  commandant  at  St.  Louis 
would  give  no  ii'  .tructioriS  relative  to  forage  or  medical  aid. 

I  am  very  respect,  vour  Obt.  Ser  „      „ 

'        •  Th.  Posey 

Acting  Sect,  of  War,  City  of  W.^siiington 

P.  S.     The  Indians  heretofore  hostile,  still  discover  a  very 
inveterate  &  hostile  disposiLion.     I  am  of  opinion  nothing  sat- 


696  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

isfactory  will  take  place  with  them  as  to  a  peaceful  disposition 
until  they  are  humbled. 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Nov.  1st,  1815 

Har.  Pa.  ^53-356 

Sir: 

On  the  19th  Ult.  I  informed  you  of  my  intention  of  visiting 
the  Weas  and  Vermillion  Kickapoos.  I  saw  all  the  Chiefs  but 
one  and  was  much  gratified  with  their  orderly  conduct  and  the 
desire  they  manifested  of  attoning  for  their  past  errors  and 
misconduct.  They  now  appear  to  be  sensible  of  the  iDenefits 
resulting  from  a  state  of  peace  and  the  interest  tliey  have  in 
preserving  it. 

A  chief  of  the  Vermillion  Kickapoos  treated  with  the  Com- 
missioners, and  made  peace  at  Portage  Des  Sioux,  were  on 
their  way  to  the  Embarrass  and  Sangamond,  the  former  a 
branch  of  the  Wabash,  the  latter  of  the  Illinois  and  both  in  the 
adjoining  Territory.  Those  on  the  Enibarass  will  be  about 
one  and  those  on  the  Sangamond  not  more  than  three  days 
Journey  from  Fort  Harrison.  He  further  states  that  on  their 
arrival  on  those  waters  for  their  Winters  hunt  a  deputation  of 
their  Chiefs  intended  to  visit  me.  There  are  still  too  many 
exasperated,  unprincipled  men  in  those  settlements  to  render 
it  safe  for  the  Indians  to  come  to  this  place.  And  should  the 
Chiefs  of  that  Tribe  really  wish  to  see  me,  I  will  meet  them 
at  the  Fort.  They  however  properly  belong  to  Gov.  [Ninian] 
Edward's  agency  and  I  am  ignorant  of  liie  arrangemer  ts  that 
have  been  made  at  Portage  des  Sioux. 

The  same  chief  informed  me  that  he  had  understood  that 
the  Shaw];eese  and  other  adherents  of  the  Prophet  intended 
to  re-establish  themselves  at  Tipi  ';canoe.  Should  those  mis- 
creants return  to  that  place  it  will  be  for  the  purpose  of  ex- 
citing mischief  and  dissentions  amongst  the  Wabash  Indians. 

In  the  spring  of  1812  a  miserable  remnant  of  the  Pyanka- 
shaws  residing  in  the  neighbourhood  of  this  place  were  for 
their  siifety  advised  to  remove  back  into  the  Indian  Country. 
They  settled  on  the  neighbourhood  of  the  Kickapoos.  Russels 
expedition  drove  them  i'roiii  thence.  Tliey  then  went  to  the 
Missouri  where  they  were  taken  piisoners  by  a  detachment  of 
Rangers  avid  Militir.  They  h;'.ve  since  been  under  the  pro- 
tection of  <!.nd  I  believe  subsisted  by  tbc  V.  State  in  the  Mis- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        697 

souri  Ty.  They  now  earnestly  solicit  to  return  to  their  old 
hunting  grounds  on  the  Embarrass  and  little  Wabash  and  liave 
sent  me  a  talk  to  obtain  permission  for  that  purpose.  They 
have  I  believe  a  considerable  Tract  of  Country  between  the 
lands  they  sold  the  United  States  and  the  lands  of  the  ICicka- 
poos  but  all  in  the  Illinois  Territory.  I  shall  therefore  not 
give  the  permission  solicited  unless  instructed  so  to  do.  Were 
they  pennitted  to  return  all  public  business  might  be 
easil}'  dispatched  with  them,  as  also  the  Prairie  Kickapoos  at 
Ft.  Harrison,  as  it  now  is  with  the  Weas  and  Vermillion  Kick- 
apoos. 

Maj.  [Willoughby]  Morgan  occupying  Fort  Harrison  with 
two  companies  it  is  no  longer  convenient  for  the  inteipreter 
and  Gunsmith  to  remain  in  it.  I  have  purchased  near  the 
Fort  a  small  Cabin,  part  finished  completing  that  and  building 
another  adjoining  it  f o  ■  a  shop  accommodation  will  be  afforded 
them.  The  house  will  also  serve  as  a  place  of  rendezvous  for 
the  Indians  who  resort  to  that  place.  On  Saturday  last  Maj. 
Morgan  discharged  the  Militia  Rangers  raised  under  the  requi- 
sition of  Col.  Russell  a  few  months  since. 

Whilst  the  Rangers  were  in  Service,  I  had  to  hire  an  ex- 
press but  in  a  single  case,  the  Officers  of  that  Corps  kindly  fur- 
nished me  men  for  that  service.  I  had  occasion  frequently 
for  them.  Scarcely  a  week  elapsed  that  I  did  not  receive  a 
communication  from  the  Indians  that  required  attention  as 
it  would  not  be  prudent  for  [Michel]  Broulette  to  send  an  In- 
dian messenger  to  mo,  it  will  scarcely  be  possible  for  him  to 
get  an  express  at  tl;  Fort.  And  to  depend  on  transient  per- 
sons would  not  comprt  with  the  Public  Interest.  I  could  wish 
to  engage  a  man  for  three  five  or  six  months  upon  the  terms 
on  which  the  rangers  were  enlisted.  Until  Januarj^  he  ought 
to  go  to  the  Fort  and  return  weekly  during  the  frosts  and 
high  waters  of  the  winter  and  spring  once  in  t\>'0  weeks.  I 
believe  it  would  be  as  che-  p,  cheaper  to  the  Goveramcnt  than 
hireing  men  as  occasion  may  require  and  would  insure  a  safe 
and  expeditious  mode  of  transmiting  inteligerjce  to  and  from 
the  Indian  Country. 

The  proposition  is  respectfully  submitted  for  your  determi- 
nation. T  i.r   n     r<- 

I  am  respectfully  Sir  your 

Obe.  Servant. 
His  Excellency  Gov.  Posey  ^'  "^^^^^ 

47—2266: 


698  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  Ind.  Ter.  12  Nov.  1815 

Har.  Pa.  S57 

Sir: 

Thinking  it  necessary  that  the  department  of  war  should 
be  made  acquainted  with  the  present  temper  and  disposition 
of  the  Indians  within  my  district,  I  herewith  enclose  to  you  a 
copy  of  a  letter  from  Judge  B.  Park  [Nov.  1  above],  who 
I  have  been  under  the  necessity  of  employing  as  an  assistant 
in  Indian  affairs  owing  to  the  dispersed  situation  of  the  In- 
dians at  different  st-itions  upon  our  frontiers.  In  addition  to 
Judge  Parke's  letter,  I  inform  you  that  all  the  tribes  at  other 
stations  as  well  as  Ft.  Harrison  are  very  amiably  disposed. 
All  the  friendly  Indians  have  been  greatly  distressed  for  the 
want  of  provision  and  to  relieve  their  distresses  only  in  a 
moderate  degree,  I  have  given  them  partial  supplies,  which  I 
presume  will  meet  the  approbation  of  Government.  I  have 
licensed  Traders  to  furnisl  the  Indians  at  the  different  sta- 
tions and  I  am  in  hopes  they  will  be  enabled  to  furnish  them- 
selves considerably  if  not  altogether  by  hunting.  In  all  the 
accounts  which  I  have  sanctioned  and  sent  on  to  the  depart- 
ment of  War,  I  have  endeavored  to  economise  as  much  as  pos- 
sible and  have  endeavored  to  explain  the  necessity  of  furnish- 
ing the  several  articles  charged  by  accompany 'ig  documents 
where  they  were  not  sufficiently  explained  in  tlie  account. 

I  am  with  great  respc  .'t 
;;;  Your  Humble  Servt. 

-.-  '  v.  r     .-■  Th.  Posey 

Honble.  William  H.  Crawford 

City  of  Washington 

''    ■■•  ';"'    Posey  TO  General  Assembly 

Jeffersonville  Dec  4  1815 

ii.  ss.  in  Sec.  of  State's  Office 

Regular  Message 

Gentlemen  of  the  Legislative  Council  ana  of  the  House  of 
Rcprcsentaiivcs: 
The  period  for  the  meeting  of  the  legislature  of  the  terri- 
tory has  once  more  arrived,  and  it  is  with  th    most  heartfelt 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        699 

satisfaction  that  I  now  congratulate  you,  that  since  your  last 
meetincT,  a  bloody  war  has  been  terminated  by  an  honorable 
peace,  le  blessings  of  which  have  been  diffused  and  felt 
throughout  our  beloved  country.  We  cannot  be  too  grateful  to 
that  providence,  in  whose  hand:;  are  the  destinies  of  nations, 
that  he  has  blessed  our  efforts  in  a  just  and  arduous  struggle, 
with  a  poY/erful  and  ambitious  enemy,  and  finally  crowned 
them  with  the  most  glorious  sue  ss.  This  event  has  furnished 
a  new  era  in  our  history,  from  Vv  liich  the  most  flattering  pres 
ages  may  be  drawn ;  it  has  taught  us  confidence  in  ourselves, 
and  demonstrated  the  efffciency  of  a  free  government  in  war, 
as  well  as  in  peace.  These  political  blessings  which  are  of  a 
nature  so  interesting  and  important,  were  not  obtained  but  at 
the  expense  of  blood  and  treasure  and  individual  privation; 
these  however  are  the  natural  concomitants  of  war,  and  should 
be  cheerfully  submitted  to,  in  order  to  insure  great  national  ob- 
jects. In  no  section  of  the  union  is  there  more  cause  for 
rejoicing  at  the  restoration  of  peace  than  in  this  territory.  A 
cruel  and  bloodthirsty  enemy,  who  border  on  our  frontier,  and 
whose  mode  of  warfare  ]  the  indiscriminate  slaughter  of  the 
infants,  the  aged,  and  ihe  helpless  part  of  the  community, 
have  agreed  to  bury  the  tomahawk,  and  once  more  live  with 
us  in  the  bonds  of  friendship.  From  this  event  has  flowed 
and  is  still  flowing  the  most  lasting  benefits  to  our  country; 
an  emigration  which  is  rapidly  populating  our  fertile  lands, 
and  which  in  a  little  time  will  enable  us  to  be  admitted  into 
the  political  family  of  the  union  as  an  independent  state. 

Permit  me  to  recommend  to  the  legislature  the  propriety  as 
well  as  justice  of  imposing  as  modei'ate  taxes  on  the  emigrants 
to  the  territory  as  may  be  compatible  with  the  public  interest. 
Most  of  them  ha\  removed  from  a  great  distance,  at  a  con- 
siderable expense.  They  have  to  encounter  many  difficulties 
in  opening  their  farms  for  cultivation,  before  they  can  derive 
a  supp;.-rt,  much  more  a  profit  from  them ;  and  con? oquently 
their  ability  will  be  excus^^d  from  contributing  largely  for  a 
short  time  to  the  public  exigencies.  These  circumstances  are 
not  unknown  to  you  genthnnen,  and  I  make  no  doubt  "svlien 
you  take  up  the  subject  of  taxation  you  will  give  them  that 
consideration  which  theii"  importance  merits. 

The  present  seems  to  be  a  favorable  time  to  airn  your  atten- 
tion to  the  promotion  of  education  and  the  improvement  of  the 


700  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

state  of  roads  and  highways.  Both  of  these  subjects  h;..ve 
been  already  acted  on.  By  reviving  them  a  knowledge  of 
their  practical  operation,  may  demonstrate  the  necessity  of 
making  alterations  and  improvements  that  will  be  extensively 
useful. 

A  revision  of  the  territorial  lav,  s  is  highly  necessary  and 
should  be  taken  up  as  early  in  the  session  as  possible.  There 
have  not  been  for  some  time  any  of  the  acts  of  1808  or  1810 
to  distribute  to  justices  of  the  peace  and  others  who  wore  en- 
titled to  them;  in  fact  from  their  detached  and  deranged  situ- 
ation, the  laws  have  become  complicated  and  difficult  to  be 
searched  out  and  properly  understood. 

Every  dictate  c'^  prudence  recommends  an  amendment  to 
the  militi  •  system,  so  as  to  render  it  free  from  any  unnecessary 
delay  in  its  operation,  and  to  secure  by  more  certain  and  ade- 
quate punishments,  prompt  obedience  to  such  requisitions  as 
emergencies  may  fi'om  time  to  time  require. 

I  cannot  close  this  communication,  without  expressing  my 
coniidcj  ice  in  a  wise  and  honorable  result  to  your  deliberations, 
and  assurances  of  the  faithful  zeal  with  which  my  cooperating 
duties  will  be  discharged ;  invoking  at  the  same  time  the  bless- 
ing,-^, of  Heaven  on  our  beloved  country. 

Th.  Posey 

■'-  • '  Harrison  to  Congress 

Cincinnati  December  20, 1815 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Af.  I,  650 

In  a  letter  which  I  had  the  honor  to  receive  from  Mr.  Fisk, 
who  was  the  chairman  of  a  committee  appointed,  in.  the  spring 
of  1814,  to  inquire  into  the  complaints  of  improper  interfer- 
ences with  the  contractors  by  the  commanding  generals,  and 
which  letter  was  dated  August  3d,  1814,  he  says,  that  he  "had 
formed  an  unfavo  ible  opinion  of  me,  from  some  statements 
which  had  been  made  to  the  committee,  suppoiled  by  docu- 
ments, chiefly  my  ov/n  letters,  substantiating  the  following 
facts,  viz :  that,  in  a  letter  addressed  by  me  to  the  contracted' 
Mr.  [B.  G.]  Orr,  about  the  24th  of  June,  1813,  I  informed  liiin 
that  I  had  provisions  enought  on  hand  for  fourteen  thousand 
men  for  one  yeai-,  that  about  the  2'lth  of  August  of  the  same 
year,  I  made  a  large  requisition  upon  him  for  supplies,  which, 
in  consequence  of  the  former  letter,  he  was  unable  to  furnish, 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        701 

and  that  I  liad  also  caused  large  purchases  to  be  made  by  the 
commissaries  of  the  army  after  the  said  2-lth  of  Juri:\  and 
that,  notwithstanding-  all  this,  the  army  vranted  provisions  at 
Maiden,  and  on  the  expedition  to  the  ^Moravian  towns."  Never 
was  there  a  more  artful  combination  of  truth  and  falsehood 
than  this  statement  contains.  The  army  did  not  want  pro- 
visions at  Maiden;  it  remained  at  that  place  but  one  night. 
The  troops  had  drawn  provisions  for  that  and  the  following 
day,  and  there  \Yere  at  least  eighty  thousand  rations  on  board 
the  vessels,  at  the  wharfs,  at  the  distance  of  only  one  hundred 
yards  from  the  encampment.  I  should  indeed  but  illy  have 
deserved  the  situation  which  I  occupied  if  I  had  invaded  an 
enemy's  country  without  a  single  day's  provisions  for  my 
troops.  Could  I,  for  a  moment,  have  presei^-ed  the  confidence 
of  a  single  man  in  the  army  under  such  circumstances? 
What  Vv'ould  have  been  the  feelings  of  the  volunteers,  and  their 
venerable  and  patriotic  leader?  Would  not  the  latter  have 
denounced  me  immediately  to  the  Government  as  entirely'  in- 
competent to  t-\e  command?  And  yet  I  do  Imovr  that,  not- 
withstanding the  army  did  want  provisions  when  operating 
on  the  Thames,  so  entirely  evident  was  this  want  beyond  exer- 
tions of  mine  to  prevent,  that  Governor  Shelby,  who  vas  inti- 
mately acquainted  with  i\\\  my  plans,  and  wit"  the  whole 
course  of  my  conduct  has  continued  to  speak  of  me,  and  to 
write  of  me,  in  a  manner  far  (I  must  acknovrledge)  beyond 
either  my  merits  or  pretensions.  His  letters  to  the  President 
will  prove  this.  I  shall  advance  nothing  in  this  statement 
without  adducing  evidence  in  support  of  it,  although  the  state- 
ment which  I  shall  make  will  be  so  consistent  that  I  trust  it 
would,  of  itself,  have  carried  conviction  to  the  minds  of  the 
committee.  I  ask  them,  therefore,  to  refer  to  my  official  ac- 
count of  the  operations  at  Detroit,  and  upon  the  Thames,  in 
which  it  is  stated  that  the  vessels  which  had  been  sent  back 
from  ?<Talden  for  provisions  had  been  driven  to  the  lower  end 
of  the  lake,  by  a  storm,  and  that  they  had  not  arrived  at  that 
time,  nor,  indeed,  did  they  arrive  until  after  I  had  sailed  for 
Buffalo.  L'i  on  what,  then,  could  tlie  army,  the  prisoners,  the 
Indians,  with  whom  I  was  treating,  and  the  inhabitants  of 
Detroit,  a  part  of  whom  I  v»;'.s' obliged  to  supply,  subsist  from 
the  27th  of  Sc]'tembcr  to  the  12th  or  15th  of  October,  but  upon 
the  provisions  which  were  taken  over  with  the  troops?      I 


702  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECliONS 

acknowledge  that  the}'  were  not  well  supplied,  but  tlie  issues 
could  not  have  been  less  than  seven  thou. sand  rations  per  diem. 
Fiom  the  following  statement  it  will  appear  that  the  contrac- 
tors, and  not  me,  were  to  blame  for  the  deficiency  of  pro- 
visions, and  that  if  I  had  relied  entirely  upon  them  the  army 
would  have  starved.  I  cannot  find  in  any  of  my  letters  to 
the  contractors,  that  I  ever  said  I  had  provisions  for  fourteen 
thousand  men  for  one  year.  In  the  letter  of  the  20th  of  June, 
the  paragraph  in  relation  to  this  subject  stands  tlius:  "there 
is,  I  imagine,  full  as  much  provisions  on  1  nd,  the  property  of 
the  United  States,  as  will  be  wanted  for  the  campaign,  some 
fresh  beef  excepted." 

In  the  letter  of  the  22d  of  June,  I  state,  that  "there  will  be 
quite  provisions  enough  for  all  the  troops  that  are  to  be  em- 
ployed at  least  until  the  1st  of  December,"  The  difference  be- 
tween the  statement  is,  however,  not  at  all  material  to  the 
argunTnt,  since  I  broadly  acknov/ledge  that  I  not  only  directed 
the  C(  ractor  to  procure  no  provisions  for  the  campaign,  but 
compL.ined  to  the  Secretary  of  War  that  he  had  made  consid- 
erable purchases  at  Cleveland.  By  ef erring  to  a  map  of  the 
State  of  Ohio,  the  movements  of  the  northwestern  army  on  the 
three  lines  of  operation  leading  from  the  first  to  the  second 
military  base  may  be  traced  as  follows,  viz:  the  right  line 
ascending  the  Scioto  river  from  Delaware  and  descending  San- 
dusky river  to  Upper  and  then  to  Lower  Sandusky.  The  left 
taking  the  direction  c'  that  branch  of  the  T\Iiami  of  the  Ohio 
which  interlocks  with  die  i^Iiami  of  the  lake,  crossed  the  Por- 
tage between  them,  and  descended  the  latter  river  to  Fort 
Meigs.  I  shall  advance  nothing  in  this  statement  but  what  is 
supported  by  an  original  document  sent  with  it,  or  which  will 
be  confiremed  by  the  persons  to  whom  I  shall  refer,  and  who 
a:"e  within  reach  of  the  committee.  For  the  quantity  of  pro- 
visions on  hand  at  the  date  of  my  letter  to  ]\Ir.  Orr,  24th  June, 
see  original  returns  of  the  commissaries,  marked  No.  1.  I 
have  no  return  by  me  of  the  quantity  of  provisions  on  hand  at 
Fort  IMeigs  in  J.  le,  1813,  but  the  deposition  of  Captain 
[Williar.i]  Oliver,  th/  commissary,  accompanying  this,  will 
furnish  it.  ]\Iy  estimate  is  eight  hundred  barrels  of  flour  and 
a  much  larger  quantity  of  meat.  If  this  estimate  is  correct, 
we  have  on  the  left  and  centre  lines,  and  at  Fort  I^.Ieigs,  which 
terminated  th(  .n,  flour  equal  to  nine  hundred  and  forty  thou- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        703 

sand  rations,  and  half  that  number  of  rations  of  salted  acat. 
The  above  provisions  were  purchased  under  a  particular  order 
from  the  Secretary  of  War.  These  facts  can  bo  ascertained 
by  reference  to  the  War  Otnce  and  Colonel  [James]  ]Morri- 
son,  and  ti.e  honorable  ]\Ir.  Creighton.  Admitting;  that  of  this 
quantity  there  had  been  consumed,  on  the  24th  of  June,  1813, 
four  hundred  thousand  rations,  which  is  a  large  allov\'ance, 
there  will  remain  for  this  line,  one  n.illion  five  hundred  thou- 
sand of  all  the  component  parts  of  the  rations,  meat  excepted, 
for  a  considerable  quantity  of  the  meat  procured  for  this  line 
had  bci  I  driven  to  Fort  ]Meigs  in  the  preceding  winter,  and 
there  salted. 

From  these  facts  it  will  be  admitted  that,  on  the  22d  June, 
1813,  1  was  authorized  to  say  we  had  provisions  enough  on 
hand  for  the  campaign.  But  by  what  sad  reverses  were  these 
bright  prospects  so  blasted  that  it  became  necessarj''  to  pur- 
chase more  provisions,  and  in  August  to  call  upon  the  con- 
tractors for  a  large  supply?  From  the  affidavit  of  Mr.  Pirtt, 
and  from  the  personal  evidence  which  he  will  give  to  the  com- 
mittee, it  \n\\  be  seen  that  it  is  not  true  that  provisions  were 
purchased  by  the  commissaries  of  the  army  after  the  month 
of  June,  and  before  the  montli  of  September,  excepting  some 
beef  cattle,  to  no  g.  -at  amount,  to  make  the  other  component 
parts  of  the  rations  on  hand  complete  rations.  The  call  upon 
the  contractor  was  rendered  necessary  from  the  follovring  cir- 
cumstances :  The  provisions  on  the  left  line  were  brought 
from  the  I\Iiami  country,  and  deposited  at  St.  Mary's  on  the 
river  of  that  name,  and  at  Amanda,  on  the  Auglaize,  (called 
on  the  map  Tawa  town)  and  boats  were  prepared  at  each  of 
those  places  to  take  them  for  fort  jMeigs.  The  greater  part 
of  the  boats  were  upon  the  arrival  of  General  [Green]  Clay's 
brigade  of  Kentucky  militia  in  the  latter  end  of  April,  and  by 
that  ofiicer  very  properly  taken  to  convey  his  troops  to  the 
re  ief  of  fort  ]\Icigs,  then  besieged  by  the  enemy.  Part  of  the 
flour  was,  however,  taken  down  as  far  as  Fort  Winchester, 
and  there  left,  that  the  troops  might  be  unincumbered  with  it 
in  their  approach  to  the  enemy.  After  the  siege  of  fort  I\Ieigs 
was  raised,  orders  v/ere  given  to  provide  other  boats  at  St. 
T^i'uy's  and  Amanda,  (those  which  had  descended  could  not 
be  taken  back)  and  when  I  wrote  to  th'i  contractors,  on  the 
22d  of  June,  I  had  still  strong  hopes  that,  by  the  usual  re- 


704  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

currence  of  a  fresh  at  that  season,  the  provisions  might  be 
brought  down.  In  this  hope  I  was,  however,  disappoint<'d. 
Mr.  Piatt  knows  better  than  I  do  how  much  of  it  reached  fort 
Meigs.  My  own  belief  is  that  a  very  fevv^  barrels  of  that 
which  was  deposited  at  Fort  Winchester  arrived,  and  that  in 
a  damaged  state.  Very  early  in  the  spring  a  large  deposite 
of  flour  had  been  made  at  fort  ]\Ieigs;  to  that  place  also,  largo 
droves  of  hogs  and  beeves  were  driven  from  Urbana  and 
Franklintoii.  The  preservation  of  this  provision  engaged  my 
early  and  particular  attention.  The  flour  was  put  under 
cover  before  the  sick  wei'e  sheltered  in  any  other  way  than  by 
tents;  barrels  were  ordered  to  be  prepared  for  the  pork  and 
beef;  but,  as  it  was  necessary  to  salt  it  before  these  could  be 
made  ready,  the  meat  was  put  in  la^ .  e  vats  which  were 
deemed  safe,  as  ship  carpenters  were  employed  to  make  and 
calk  them.  Notwithstanding  all  my  personal  care  and  atten- 
tion, hoY;ever,  a  great  part  of  the  flour  as  well  as  the  meat 
spoiled.  During  the  siege  of  fort  Meigs  the  covering  of  the 
flour  was  destroyed  by  the  enemy's  shot,  and  a  great  number 
of  the  barrels  shattered,  and  the  whole  exp.;sed  to  the  eoli- 
th' aed  rains  which  fell  for  several  weeks.  Apprised  of  this 
circumstance,  I  directed  that  it  should  be  overhauled,  sift  d 
and  repacked,  and  iS  much  as  possible  baked  into  biscuits. 
This  business  was  in  full  operation  when  the  enemy  made 
tlieir  seco]id  appearance,  and  caused  it  to  be  suspended.  Upon 
the  final  report  of  the  state  of  the  provisions  at  fort  Tileigs  in 
August,  I  found  that  a  considerable  quantity  of  the  flour  had 
been  destroyed.  A  great  doal  of  the  salted  meat  was  vho 
spoiled,  supposed  to  be  occasioned  by  the  shot  from  the 
enemy's  batteries  causing  the  reservoirs  to  leali.  The  garri- 
son, too,  had  been  obliged  to  use  the  salt  meat  contrary  to  my 
intention,  as  the  communication  was  intercepted,  and  the 
fresh  beef  could  not  be  taken  to  them.  The  supplies  upon  the 
right  Vvdng  had  also  sufl'ei'ed  very  materially.  The  flour  was 
principally  i.archasc.l  in  the  neighboi'hood  of  Cliiiicothe,  froin 
whence  it  was  taken  in  wagons  to  Franklvnton,  Delaware; 
from  those  places  to  Norton ;  from  Norton  to  Upper  San- 
dusky, a  id  from  that  to  Lov/er  Sandusky.  From  these  re- 
peated changes  of  the  carriages,  f]'om  the  frequent  loading  and 
unloading,  and  from  the  excessive  bad  I'oads,  the  barrels  Vv'ere 
much  broken,  ar.d  the  militia  officers,  v.dio  commanded  at  the 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        705 

several  d  'pots,  were'  not  as  attentive  as  they  oiigiit  to  have 
been  in  the  construction  of  sheds  to  keep  them  from  the 
weather.  From  these  causes  the  greater  part  of  the  flour  vras 
much  injured,  altliough  it  was  all  examined,  and  the  sound 
part  separated  from  that  which  was  damaged  and  repacked; 
the  loss  was  very  considerable.  The  consumption  upon  this 
vring  was  also  unexpectedly  inci'eased  to  an  enormous  amount 
from  the  number  of  the  Ohio  militia  wliich  turned  out  to  repel 
the  second  invasion  of  the  enemy,  and  from  the  unnecessary 
retention  of  tv/o  thousand  of  them  at  Upper  Sandusky,  after 
the  enemy  had  retired.  On  the  18th  of  August  I  had  ascer- 
tained that  there  v/ould  be  a  deficiency  of  salted  provision  in 
the  public  depots,  and  as  I  knew  that  the  contractors  had  a 
quantity  of  iliat  article  at  Cleveland,  which  they  never  had 
been  required  to  purchase,  I  addressed  a  letter  to  their  agent, 
requiring  of  them  two  hundred  thousand  rations  of  salt  meat 
for  the  consumption  of  the  troops  when  in  Canada.  I  did  not 
at  that  time  suppose  that  the  flour  would  be  wanted ;  but  as  it 
would  have  been  unjust  to  have  obliged  the  contractors  to  fur- 
nish the  salted  meat,  which  was  then  scarce,  and  upon  which 
they  would  probably  lose,  I  gave  then  the  option  of  furnishing 
the  other  parts  of  the  vation  or  not,  as  they  pleased.  See  the 
original  draughts  of  my  letter,  (No.  2)  and  ^Ir.  Greely's  an- 
swer, (No.  3)  enclosing  the  return  of  provisions  on  hand  a. 
Cleveland,  by  which  it  will  appear  that  they  had  at  that  time 
upwards  of  three-fourths  of  the  whole  quantity  demanded. 
It  is  true  that  I\Ir.  Orr  (see  his  letter  No.  4)  contradicts  the 
statement  of  his  partner,  Mr.  Greely;  but  the  reason  of  his 
doing  so  was  soon  explained.  Upon  his  arrival  at  headquar- 
ters, about  the  7th  of  Scpteniber,  he  stated  to  me  that  the  Sec- 
retary of  War  would  not  pay  his  draughts  unless  they  were 
sanctioned  by  me  upon  an  estimate  of  the  cost  of  provision 
which  I  might  require  of  him.  I  agi'eed  to  authorize  his  draw- 
ing, upon  his  submitting  an  estimate.  His  letter  and  esti- 
mate, (No.  5)  will  show  that  he  ^^^shed  the  Government  to 
advance  the  whole  cost  of  the  three  hundred  thousand  rations 
vv'hich  had  been  required  (  i  him,  although  he  had  on  hand  the 
greater  part  of  the  amount  purchased  with  funds  that  had 
been  placed  in  his  hands  when  he  took  the  contract.  I  refused 
to  sanction  his  drawing  for  more  than  a  reasonable  advance 
upon  the  provisions  which  wei'c  then  to  be  purchased.     Tlie 


706  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

whole  affair  was  explained  to  the  Secrctaiy  of  War  in  a  letter 
of  the  8th  of  September.  This  refusal  of  mine  to  suffer  Orr 
to  draw  for  sixty  thousand  dollars  to  purchase  one  hundred  and 
thirty-five  thousand  rations,  (which  was  tlie  quantity  wantod 
to  make  up  the  three  hundred  thousand  which  v/ere  I'cquired  ) 
gave  the  first  shock  to  the  good  understanding  which  had  sub- 
sisted between  us,  and  my  taking  him  severely  to  task,  when 
the  army  ^yas  crossing  the  lake,  for  not  providing  vessels  to 
transport  his  provisions,  entirely  destroyed  it 

From  the  foregoing  s^  tement  it  willi  I  trust,  be  acknowl- 
edged that,  In  June  18la,  I  w  s  authorized  to  say  that  there 
w.s  sufficiency  of  provisions  in  the  public  stores  fci  the  con- 
templated   campaign,    and   that   there    was    nothing   unjust 
towaras  the  contractors,  or  injurious  to  the  public  interests, 
m  the  demand  of  three  hundred  thousand  rations  in  the  latter 
end  of  Augiist,  since  I  knew  that  the  greater  part  was  on 
hand      I  acknowledge  that,  at  the  time  I  gave  the  order,  I 
thought  it  probable  that  all  the  salted  meat  required  could  not 
be  procured,  and  certainly  I  should  not  have  blamed  thecon- 
tractors  for  not  performing  impossibilities.     The  troops  did 
not  suffer  because  this  provision  vras  not  purcl     ed  but  thev 
were  stinted  in  their  supplies  at  Detroit,  because  the  contrac- 
tors did  not  (as  they  might  have  done)  procure  the  means  of 
tiansporting  their  provisions  across  the  lake.     The  demand 
for.  the  three  hundred  thousand  rations  was  made  to  render 
security  more  sure";  a  maxim  that  should  be  constantly  in 
the  mmd  of  every  general  when  providing  for  the  subsistence 
01  his  :.rmy  m  a  wilderness,  or  in  an  exhausted  country     Hov^ 
many  m  other  respects  well-planned  enterprises  have  failed 
fmn  neglecting  it?     The  great  King-  of  Prussia,  who,  .bove 
all  otl  .T  generals,  was  famous  for  ascertaining  the  subsis- 
tence of  his  army,  failed  in  an  attempt  upon  Olmutz,  in  the 
seven  year  s  war,  because  for  once  he  trusted  to  a  single 
resource     Had  he  succeeded  in  this  attempt,  he  mMn.  m % 
few  week's  ;  fter,  have  dictated  the  terms  of  peace  to  the 
Empress  Queen  in  her  ca])ital.     But,  without  recurring  to  re- 
mote examp^  .,  our  own  annals  furnish  a  fatal  instance  of  the 

lln^n  f  ; 'i  '  '^^''''  ^'^^"'^^^  Wilkinson  says  that  he  was 
unable  to  ake  Montreal  in  the  fall  of  1813,  because  ho  was 
not  joined  by  the  corps  under  General  [Wade]  Hampton;  and 
the  latter  asserts  that  he  could  not  form  the  desired  junction 
lor  want  of  provisions 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        707 

I  have  never  heard  that  the  retention  of  the  provisions,  pur- 
chased by  the  agents  of  the  United  States  in  the  hnnds  of  tlieir 
commissaries  after  the  commencement  of  JMr.  Orr's  contract, 
formed  a  part  of  his  complaints  against  me.  If  such,  should 
be  the  case,  hovrever,  Colonel  ]Morrison  will  give  the  commit- 
tee the  most  satisf;  etory  information  upon  the  subject.  It 
was  in  pursuance  of  his  advice  that  I  prescribed  the  terms 
upon  which  the  provisions  should  be  delivered,  and  Vvdiich  were 
refused  by  'Mr.  Orr. 

Mr.  Orr  has  asserted  that  he  cleared  one  hundred  thousand 
dollars  by  the  contract,  and  that,  but  for  me,  he  would  have 
made  three  hundred  thousand.  (See  the  depositions  of  Cap- 
tain Reed,  late  assistant  deinity  quarter-master  general  and 
three  other  gent/emen,  marked  No.  6)  I  know  of  no  act  of 
mine  that  could  have  operated  so  injuriously  to  the  interests 
of  the  contractors,  unless  in  the  two  instances  in  wh'ch  their 
entire  failure  to  supply  the  troops  was  cor:;  cted  by  purcliases 
made  by  the  officers  of  the  United  States.  Upon  my  return 
into  the  district,  in  .January,  1814,  Captain  Oliver,  the  com- 
missary, waited  on  me  to  inform  me  that  he  was  then  em- 
ployed, under  an  order  from  Brigadier  General  Cass,  in  pu'-- 
chasing  provisions  for  the  troops  at  Detroit,  who  were  almost 
in  a  starving  situation  in  consequence  on  the  neglect  of  tlie 
contractors  to  comply  with  General  Cass's  requisitions.  I  ap- 
proved of  the  order  which  had  been  given  to  General  Cass,  and 
his  successor,  in  the  command  of  Detroit  Colonel  Butler,  and 
directed  Captain  Oliver  to  continue  his  exertions  to  execute 
them.  (See  the  deposition  of  Captain  Oliver,  No.  7.)  I  had 
scarcelj^  disposed  of  this  affair  wlien  I  was  alarmed  by  the 
intelligence  received  from  Llajor  General  Gano,  of  the  Ohio 
militia,  to  whomi  was  entrusted  the  defence  of  Lowei'  San- 
dusky and  Put-in-ba3%  at  the  latter  of  which  lay  the  prize 
ships  taken  from  the  enemy,  that  the  troops  at  those  places 
were  siip]:ilied  with  provisions  from  the  contractors  had  been 
unavailing.  (See  T  deposition  of  General  Gano  No.  8)  The 
matter  was  so  urgent  that  no  time  was  to  be  lost.  Captain 
Oliver  was,  th  .'efore,  instru.cted  to  make  a  contract  for  the 
delivery  nf  forty  tliousand  rations,  at  Lower  Sandusky,  with 
the  utmost  possible  despatch,  to  make  the  best  bargain  he 
could  for  the  interests  of  the  contractors,  but  to  give  a  price 
whi(  h  would  insur:  the  delivery  of  the  p]  ^visions.     What  less 


708  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

could  have  been  done  in  the  tv\^o  cases  here  mentioned?  Should 
I  have  countermanded  tlie  orders  given  by  General  Cass  and 
Colonel  Butlei-,  by  the  execution  of  which  alone  the  important 
posts  at  Detroit  and  I^.Ialden  could  be  preserved,  or  should  I 
have  permitted  the  enemy  to  retalie  the  ships  in  harbor,  at 
Put-in-bay,  which  vvould  have  enabled  them  again  to  contend 
for  the  superioi'ity  on  the  lakes,  for  fear  that  I  sliould  deprive 
Mr.  Orr  of  the  opp;irtunity  of  making  three  hundred  thousand 
dollars  instead  of  one  hundred  thousand? 

In  order  to  gain  credit  to  his  complaints  of  persecution 
from  me,  it  Vv^as  conceived  to  be  necessary  by  Mr.  Orr  and  his 
friends  lo  assign  some  motive  for  it,  and  they  have  chosen  to 
account  for  it  by  supposing  partiality,  on  my  part,  towards 
Mr.  John  IT.  Piatt,  the  Deputy  Commissary  General.  As  this 
officer  was  allowed  a  certain  per  centum  upon  his  expendi- 
tures, his  emohriiient,  consequently,  increased  by  every  order 
to  purchase  provisions.  The  contractors  Vv^ere  made  to  fail,  in 
order  that  business  might  be  throv/n  in  Piatt's  hands ;  and  I 
believe  that  it  has  been  more  than  insinuated  that  we  divided 
the  spoil.  By  referring  to  Mr.  Piatt's  deposition.  No.  9,  it 
will  be  seen,  and  the  fac  :'an  be  verified  by  his  account;'  which 
have  been  passed  at  the  War  Office,  that  after  the  commence- 
ment of  Oi'r's  contract,  Piatt  never  received  an  ord'.  r  from  me 
to  purchase  any  provisions,  but  in  a  single  instance,  and  that 
was  some  beef  cattle  for  the  purpose  of  making  the  flour  and 
other  component  parts  of  tue  rations  in  the  hands  of  the 
United  States  commissaries  complete  rations.  Tiie  order  for 
the  purchases  to  remedy  the  failure  of  the  contractors  at  De- 
troit and  Maiden,  in  the  winter  of  1813-1814,  was  given  when 
I  was  out  of  the  district,  first  by  General  Cass,  and  aftervv^ards 
by  Colonel  Butler,  that  for  the  supply  of  Sandusky  and  the 
Bass  islands'  was  committed  to  Captain  Oliver.  To  give  color 
to  my  supposed  subserviency  to  the  interests  of  Mr.  Piatt,  it 
has,  I  understand,  been  asserted  that  I  drew  him  from  obscur- 
ity to  place  him  in  the  lucrative  ofilce  which  he  filled.  This 
story  is  just  as  false  as  the  inference  that  is  drawn  from  it. 
I  was  a  perf(  ct  stranger  to  Mr.  Piatt  when  I  found  liira  upon 
the  frontier.^  of  this  State  acting  as  purchasing  commissary 
under  an  appointment  from  General  Hull.  I  continue  i  him  in. 
opposition  to  Iho  claims  of  a  friend  of  eighteen  years  sti.inding, 
because  I  was  informe.I  that  he  had  given  great  satisfaction 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        709 

to  Hull's  army  by  his  zeal  and  industry.  (See  certificates  of 
Generals  Taylor,  Findlay,  and  Colonel  Jesup  -narked  No.  10) 
With  Mr.  Piatt  I  never  had  any  connexion,  but  in  the  relation 
of  commanding"  general  and  commissary,  in  my  life.  If  exam- 
ined upon  oath  by  the  committee  he  will  testify  that  all  the 
pecuniaiy  trar;sactions  v^'hich  ever  passed  between  us  were  me 
renting  a  house  from  him  iri  Cincinnati  for  my  family,  for 
which  he  charged  me  more  than  the  preceding  tenant  had  paid ; 
his  purchasing  two  yoke  of  oxen  from  my  farm  after  I  had  left 
the  army,  and  a  book  account  of  fifty  dollars,  principally  for 
articles  furnished  my  family  in  my  absence.  In  a  case  of  this 
kind,  where  even  the  suspicion  of  improper  conduct  would  be 
nearly  as  fatal  to  my  character  as  a  conviction  of  guilt,  all 
delicacy  should  be  laid  aside  and  the  affair  examined  to  the 
bottom.  It  is,  therefore,  my  earnest  vvish  that  Colonel  J.Iori- 
son,  Mr.  Piatt,  and  such  other  officers  as  served  under  me, 
who  are  within  reach  C  the  committee,  may  be  required  to 
testify.'  not  only  as  to  the  f ;  cts,  but  to  declare  their  opinion 
and  the  general  impressions  existing  in  the  army.  It  would 
be  V  cy  difficult  to  exhibit  positive  proof  of  the  corruption  of 
a  commanding  general,  bi^t  there  are  a  thousand  circum- 
stances which  might  come  to  the  knov.icdge  of  those  about 
him  which  would  be  quite  as  convincing  as  the  most  authentic 
document.  I  do  not  indeed  think  it  vrould  be  v.  rong  to  make  all 
public  officers  account  for  any  sudden  increase  of  vrealth.  To 
show  that  this  has  not  bee  my  case,  I  h  ve  procured  the  d  po- 
sit ■  jn  of  General  Findlay  and  Mr.  Burnett,  to  shovv'  that  I  left 
the  army  poorer  than  when  I  entered  it,  and  that  I  have  since 
been  obliged  to  have  recourse  to  loaris  to  put  my  farm  in  a 
situation  to  support  mj^  family.  The  high  characl  :  of  these 
gentlemen  \vi\\  be  vouched  for  by  all  the  Ohio  delegation. 

I  have  no  claim  to  push  the  investigation  I  have  solicited 
further  than  is  necessary  to  my  own  defence,  but  if  with  a 
view  to  a  better  understanding  of  the  operations  which  may 
be  nececsar\''  in  a  future  war,  the  House  of  Rei)resentatives 
should  determine  to  give  greater  scope  to  the  inquiry,  the  re- 
sult v/ill,  I  am  sure,  prove  the  correctness  of  the  places  v.-hich 
were  adopti  a  for  the  support  of  the  Northv/est^ini  army,  and 
that  the  actual  cost  of  the  supplievS  will  bear  a  favorable  com- 
parison with  that  of  any  other  army  -\%'hich  preceded  it  in  the 
same  tract,  or  v/iih  tho/    whi-,  h,  in  the  late  war,  were  cm- 


710  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

ployed  in  otlier  sections  of  the  country.  I  do  not  coiisider 
myself,  hov,  er,  rcLponsible  for  the  amount  of  money  which 
maj^  have  been  expended  by  the  army  under  my  command, 
excCijting*  as  to  its  faithful  application,  so  far  as  that  de- 
pended on  me.  I  am,  indeed,  ignorant  of  the  amount.  All 
that  my  duty  required  me  to  know,  was  that  it  was  as  little  as 
possible,  to  give  security  to  the  measures  which  I  was  directed 
to  pursue.  My  opinion  may  differ  from  many,  with  regard 
to  the  quantum  of  supplies  necessary  to  produce  that  security, 
and  I  may  perhaps  be  blamed  for  having  ordered  them  to  be 
provided  on  a  scale  unnecessarily  large.  It  cannot,  hov/ever, 
be  b.y  those  who  are  acquainted  with  the  countiy  which  was  the 
scene  of  our  operations,  or  who  v/ill  recollect  that  the  army 
under  General  St.  Clair  was  in  a  starving  condition  when  it 
was  defeated,  and  that  of  General  Wayne,  after  a  preparation 
of  two  and  a  half  j'^ears,  was  scarcely  able,  upon  very  reduced 
allowance,  to  reach  the  poi   t  of  its  destination. 

William  Henry  Harrison 
Late  Major  General  hi  the  United  States  Army 

General  Assembly  TO  Posey 

CORYDON  Dec.  26  1815 

;•■;  Har.  Pa.  /,^7H50 

LEGISiATIJRE  OP  INDIAN. 

House  of  RErRESENTATivEs 
-'■-■'     '     • " :/       Resolution  of  the  House 

Resolvf.i  unanimously  by  the  House  of  Representatives  of 
Indiana,  That  Ezra  Ferris  and  Joseph  Holman  bo,  and  they 
are  hereby  appointed  a  committee  to  w^ait  upon  his  Excellency 
the  Governor  of  this  Territory  v/ith  the  following  Address,  as 
expressive  of  the  sentiments  of  this  House. 
To  his  Excellency  Thomas  Posey,  Governor  of  the  Indio.na 

Territory 
Sir: 

The  House  of  Representatives,  owing  to  your  absence  at  the 
opening  of  the  present  sessio  .  of  the  Logislature,  were  pre- 
vented from  making  a  formal  answer  to  your  v/ritten  com- 
munication: They  now  take  the  oppoitu«i.ty  of  informing 
your  Excellency,  that  tiiey  highly  approbate  tlie  measures  you 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        711 

were  pleased  to  recommend ;  but  owing  to  the  prospects  of 
going  into  a  State  Government  shortly,  they  have  thought 
proper  to  postpone  the  consideration  of  some  of  the  subjects 
recommeiided,  until  the  next  session  of  the  Legislature;  and 
wishing  to  express  the  sentiments  of  esteem  and  respect  v/hich 
they  feel  towards  your  Excellency,  before  they  are  dissolved 
as  a  legislative  body,  the  last,  perhaps,  that  will  act  as  such 
during  our  Territorial  existence,  the.,  cannot  refrain  from 
declaring  their  perfect  approabation  of  your  offical  conduct  as 
Governor  of  this  Territory.  During  your  administration,  Sir, 
many  then  existing  evils  have  been  remedied;  and  we  particu- 
larly admire  the  calm,  disp;i,ssionate,  impartial  conduct  of  your 
administration,  which  has  produced  the  salutary  effect  of 
quieting  the  violence  of  party  spirit,  harmonizing  the  interests 
as  well  as  feelings  of  the  different  parts  of  the  Territory ;  and 
under  your  auspices,  we  have  become  as  one  people.  We  cor- 
dially wish  renovated  health,  domestic  happiness,  and  public 
applause,  which  you  so  justly  merit,  may  accompany  your 
future  days,  and  be  the  rev»^ard  of  a  life  devoted  to  your  coun- 
try's service. 

Dennis  Ppjnnington 
-■'  •      •■  ■ '     *•  i  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives 

■   ■         Governor's  Refly 

Mr.  Spea  er,  and  gentlemen  of  the  House  of  Represen- 
tatives OF  the  Indiana  Territory: 

The  address  of  your  House,  delivered  by  your  committee, 
Messrs.  Ferris  and  Holman,  I  receive  with  unspeakable  pleas- 
ure, and  deem  it  to  have  a  i  lace  among  the  most  consoling 
everit  of  my  life  Yes,  gentlemen,  the  approbation  of  so  re- 
spectable a  body,  relative  to  my  administration,  will  make  an 
impression  upon  my  mind  that  can  only  be  eradicated  by  a  dis- 
solution of  my  existence  in  this  life.  But  while  life  remains, 
and  I  continue  in  the  reputable  station  wliich  I  hold,  you  shrill 
always  find  m.e  devoted  to  render  to  the  citizens  of  our  Terii- 
tory  all  the  faithful  services  which  are  committed  to  my 
charge,  and  made  my  duty  to  administer. 

The  probability  is,  that  we  shall  sliortly  take  a  stand  as  a 
state,  and  add  orxe  more  brilliant  star  to  the  Union  of  our  be- 
loved country;  and  let  my  station  be  as  it  may,  bother  public 
or  private  it  shall  be  devoted  to  do  all  the  good  i  can  to  serve 


712  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

and  promotG  the  happiness  and  welfare  of  my  fellow-citizens. 

You  will  please  to  receive  my  thanks  for  the  impressive 
manner  in  which  you  appreciate  my  services,  and  the  interest 
you  take  for  my  personal  welfare.  Please  to  accept  my  best 
wishes  that  each  individual  may  enjoy  health  anu  prosperity 
through  your  public  and  private  life;  that  upon  your  retire- 
ment, you  may  have  a  happy  meeting  with  your  families ;  and 
th:'-t  you  may  be  under  the  providential  care  of  the  Supreme 
Governor  of  the  Universe. 

Th.  Posey 
The  Honorable  the  Sieaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives 

26tl.  Dec.  1815 

Harrison  to  John  McLean 

Cincinnati  Decern  er  29, 1815 

A771.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Af.  I,  658 

Dear  Sir  : 

From  Mr.  [Jaco].]  Burnet  and  other  veiy  respectable  char- 
acters who  have  lateb^  returned  from  the  Eastern  States,  I 
have  learned  that  the  industry  and  motives  of  a  few  enemies 
have  produced  an  impression  so  general  an  '  unfavorable  to 
my  reputation,  that  it  becora-  s  a  duty  to  my  family,  my  char- 
acter, and  even  my  country,  to  endeavor  to  remove  it.  There 
was  no  means  of  accomplishing  this  which  appeared  so  proper 
as  tl  't  of  ?n  investigation  by  the  House  of  Representatives. 
I  have  accoi  dingly  solicited  one  by  a  letter  address  i  to  their 
Speaker,  which  is  here^vith  enclosed:  [see  Dec.  20  above]  it  is 
also  accompanied  by  a  statement  wiiich  I  have  prepared,  with 
a  number  of  docinnents  to  support  it.  The  letter  having  been 
presented,  you  will  oblige  either  to  put  the  statement  and 
documents  also  in  possession  of  the  House  or  deliver  them  to 
the  Committee  that  ma}''  be  appointed,  as  you  may  judge 
proper.  I  cannot  believe  that  there  will  be  any  hesitation  to 
grant  nr,  rc:iu  :  but  if  there  should,  I  hope  you  will  be  pre- 
pared to  suppoil  my  claims.  Mr.  Bassett,  who  is  my  near 
relation,  Mr.  Pleasants,  and  Mr.  Nelson  of  Virginia,  will  all 
of  them  readily  yield  you  thvAv  aid,  as  would  Mr.  Clay  himself 
if  he  should  have  an  opportunity  of  speah'^ig.  I  wil^  thank 
you  Uj  m£:ke  knowTi  my  wishes  to  these  gentlenien.  ...  think 
it  is  probable  that  you  may  be  one  of  the  committee:  if  you 
arc,  I  must  repeat  in  this  private  letter  what  I  have  said  in 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        713 

that  to  the  Speaker,  that  I  wished  the  investigation  to  take 
the  greates  possibk'  scope,  and  that  no  sense  of  delicacj'' 
towards  me  should  prevent  the  asking  the  officers  v/ho  may  be 
summoned  before  the  cominittcj  any  questions  which  will 
probe  the  subject  of  the  investigation  to  the  bottom;  and  if  I 
have  a  friend  on  the  committee,  he  will  take  that  course  with- 
out the  least  apprehensio;  that  any  thing  will  come  to  light 
which  would  cause  him  to  blush  for  me.  Others  have  served 
the  country  more  successfully,  but  none  with  more  i:oal  and 
fidelity  than  I  have  done.  I  claim  no  reward,  I  would  be  con- 
tented vvith  >  ■curity ;  but  I  cannot  rest  under  unmerited  ob- 
loquy. I  see  that  my  old  opponent  (Proctor)  has  been  se- 
verly  reprimanded  by  the  Prince  Regent.  My  fate  has  been 
more  hard  than  his.  He  had  (I  presume)  a  fair  trial,  I  have 
been  condemned  unheard.  His  crime  was  the  loss  of  an  army 
and  a  province;  mine  of  having  incurred  (in  what  way  I 
know  not)  the  hatred  of  a  minister,  and  forcing  a  coritractor 
to  do  his  duty. 

I  have  selected  you  as  the  medium  of  fdving  the  enclosed 
papers  their  destination  as  well  from  the  high  opinion  I  enter- 
tain of  your  character  ..<  your  being  the  Representative  of  my 
district.  The  trouble  you  may  give  yourself  on  this  occasion 
will  be  gratefully  remembered  by  dear  sir,  your  friend  imd 
humble  servant, 

William  Henry  Harrlson 
Hon.  John  McLean,  Esq. 

Burnet  and  Findlay  to  Congress 

Cincinnati  Jan  20,  1816 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  Af.  J,  058 

Hamilton  County,  ss: 

Before  me  the  subscriber,  one  of  the  Justices  of  the  Peace 
in  and  for  the  county  of  Hamilton,  came  personally  James 
Findlay  and  Jacob  lurnct,  who,  on  oath,  depose  and  say,  they 
are  intimately  acquainted  v/ith  Major  General  William  Henry 
Harrison,  and  that  during  the  time  lie  coirmianded  the  north- 
western army,  they  had  some  agency  in  the  management  of 
his  priva'  pecuniary  concerns,  .'-nd  know  that  he  borrowed 
money  .  defray  the  ordinary  expenses  of  his  family.  They 
furtlior  state,  that  since  his  resignation,  he  has  increased  the 
loans  that  v/ore  made  during  the  wai',  for  the  pu  pose  of  im- 

48~22GC4 


714  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTION  J 

^  proving  and  stocking  'is  farm  at  North  Bend,  whic])  loans  he 
has  not  refunded  to  the  present  day.  And  these  deponents 
state  further  that  the  said  General  William  H.  Harrison  is 
jointly  interested  with  them  in  fifteen  thousand  dollars  of  the 
stock  of  the  Tvliami  Exporting  Company,  which  is  all  the  stock 
o^Mied  by  him  in  thjit  bank,  ^vllich  amount  of  stock  was  pui'- 
chased  with  money  received  f)- sm  the  sale  of  land  situated  in 
;  e  Miami,  purchased  and  o^nied  jointly  by  him  and  these 
deponents  prior  to  the  commencement  of  the  late  war.  These 
deponents  know  that  the  General  is,  and  for  many  years  past 
has  been,  possessed  of  a  large  and  very  valuable  real  estate; 
but  whk'h  has  not  been  sufficiently  productive  to  defray  his 
ordinary  expenses,  in  consequence  of  which  he  has  been  under 
the  necessity  of  having  recourse  to  loans,  as  above  stated. 
These  deponents  know,  that  he  proposed,  since  he  left  the 
service,  to  sell  his  bank  stock  for  the  purpose  of  raising 
money  to  enlarge  the  improvements  on  Ins  farm,  which  was 
pi'evented  by  an  offer  from  the  bank  to  extend  his  accommo- 
dations. These  deponents  being  intimately  acquainted  with 
the  property  business  and  circumstances  of  General  Harrison, 
are  convi  :^d,  that  he  did  not  add  to  the  value  of  his  estate 
during  the  war,  and  that  he  left  the  army  more  embarrassed 
than  he  was  when  he  entered  it.  The  conviction  produced  on 
our  minds,  by  a  long,  intimate,  and  confidential  acquaintance 
with  the  General,  requires  us  to  declare,  on  this  occasion,  that, 
in  point  of  ho^ior  and  integrity,  he  is  not  excelled  by  any  per- 
son in  the  circle  of  our  acquaintance,  and  that  we  believe  he 
would  rather  saci'ifice  his  fortune  than  add  to  it  by  an  ac! 

dishonest  or  dishonorable. 

Jat^ies  Findlay 

Jacob  Buknet 

Sv/orn  and  subscribed  to,  this  twentieth  day  of  January, 
1816,  by  James  Findlay,  one  of  the  Deponents  before  mc. 

Andrevv'  Mark,  J.  P. 

State  of  Ohio,  Rosr  County,  I\Tayor's  office,  Chiliccthe,  SS: 

I,  Levin  Belt,  Mayor  of  the  town  of  Chilicothe  aforesaid, 
do  hereby  certify,  tb  it  the  foregoing  deposition  was  sworn  to 
and  subscribed  before  mo,  by  Jacob  Burnet,  oiio  of  the  mem- 
bers from  Hamilton  County,  of  our  pi'cr.ent  Legislature,  now 
in  session  in  thi    place. 

In  testimony  whereof,  I  have  hereunto  set  my  hand  and 


HARRISON:     "    ^^-SSAGES  AND  LETTEHS        715 

affixed  the  seal  of  iny  o.',    o  this  twenty-sixth  day  of  January, 
in  the  year  one  thousand  eigh.t  hundred  and  sixteen. 

Levin  Belt,  Mayor 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
Jeffersonville  Indiana  Territory  25th  Jany.  1816 
Dr.  Sir:  Har.  Pa.  j^r^s,  j^sj, 

The  third  of  March  ensuing  brings  my  appointment  as  Gov- 
ernor of  this  Territory  to  a  close,  probably  the  President  may 
be  apprized  of  this.  I  herewith  enclose  to  you  an  address  of 
the  House  of  Representatives  to  mc  [see  Dec.  26  above].  If 
conristant  with  the  views  of  the  President,  I  shall  readily 
accept  of  a  reappointment. 

Some  of  our  citizens  are  very  restless  to  go  into  a  State 
Governmicnt.  I  wish  the  people  were  v/ell  prepared  for  iYio. 
measure,  but  I  may  say  with  propriety  that  at  least  two  thirds, 
or  three  fourths  are  not  able  to  contribute  but  veiy  little,  if 
anything  to  the  support  of  a  state;  and  there  is  also  a  very 
great  scarcity  o.:  talents  or  men  of  such  information  as  are 
necessary  to  fill  the  respective  stations,  and  offices  of  govern- 
ment. No  doubt  you  have  seen  the  memorial  of  the  two 
Houses  of  the  Legislature  to  Congress  for  the  purpose  of  goin; . 
into  a  state  government.  If  Congrc  ss  should  be  so  benevolent 
as  to  grant  all  applied  for,  there  would  be  no  difllculty  except 
the  want  of  men  of  good  information. 

It  is  calculated  that  we  shall  go  into  a  State  government  in 
twelve  or  eighteen  months.  I  think  three  years  v/ould  be 
short  enough  to  place  the  Territoi-y  in  a  situation  for  the 
change.  But  so  anxious  are  maiiy,  that  no  doubt  they  will  be 
ready  to  accept  of  any  teriiis.  We  have  numbers  sufficient, 
and  that  is  .ill  Vv^e  can  boast  of. 

In  the  mtercm,  should  a  new  territory  be  laid  off,  or  sliouki 
anything  occur  in  creating  an  office;  or  should  any  vacancy 
take  place-  the  office  of  which  I  might  be  thought  adequate  to 
perform  the  duties  of  I  sliall  be  very  thajilvf ull  for  an  appoint- 
ment. Were  I  not  needy,  and  in  so.ne  degree  thinking  my;-olf 
entitled  to  a  cla'm  of  some  attention  (however  small)  fi'oii: 
my  country  I  would  not  ask  the  favor. 

I  am  with  much  respect  and  esteem 

Your  obt.  ..crvt.  ^j^_  ^^^^^ 

Honble.  Col.  James  Munroe  Secrekiry  of  Sktte 


716  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Fc'      6th,  181'') 
Har.  Pa.  S7'Z-S7h 

Sir: 

For  some  time  rcpoii.s  have  been  circulating'  in  the  Indian 
Country  that  the  F'  kapoos  attached  to  the  Prophet  had  ceded 
to  Captain  [Mattb...  .\'^]  ElUott's  son  the  Silver  Twines  which  it 
is  supposed  by  Traders  and  Indians  are  on  the  Vermilhon  and 
that  the  British  intend  to  take  posession  of  them  and  estab- 
lish a  fort  on  that  River  in  a  fevv^  months.  That  as  the  British 
would  make  war  on  the  Americans  next  Spring  an  oppo}'tu- 
nity  would  then  be  offered  of  revenging  the  death  of  the  Kick- 
apoos  who  was  killed  in  October  last  near  Detroit.  That  War 
talks  had  been  distributed.  That  ;j'eat  dissatisfaction  and 
angry  countenances  were  manifested  by  m.any  of  the  Indians 
and  that  In  Ap;  '1  or  May  next  tlic  Indians  intc'id  to  iiold  a 
Grand  Council  to  consult  upon  their  :  Tairs. 

I  have  just  now  learned  from  a  source  tolerably  authentic 
that  the  British  have  dispatched  runners  to  all  the  chiefs  of 
the  different  Tribes  to  invite  them  to  T\Ialden  for  the  purpoijc 
of  arranging  the  necessary  measures  to  compel  the  Gc  erix- 
ment  of  the  United  States  to  admit  British.  Traders  to  a  par- 
ticipation in  the  Indian  trade  within  the  Territory  of  the 
United  State  and  that  some  of  the  Indians  are  now  on  their 
way  .0  Maiden  to  confer  witli  the  British  on  this  subject. 

Whetlier  those  machinations  proceed  from  the  perfidy  of 
the  British  agents  british  traders  or  british  Indians  wit-iin  our 
Territory  must  for  the  present  be  a  matter  of  conjecture. 
The  experience  of  tlie  last  thirty  years  however  authorise  the 
belief  that  it  may  be  fairl^^  ascj^bed  to  the  former  and  I  am 
also  inclined  to  this  opinion  from  the  information  a  spy  who 
was  at  Maiden  and  Sandv/ich  in  September  last  has  given  me. 
He  say;.;  the  British  were  then  intriguing  v/itli  Pecan  and 
other  Chiefs  vvith  respect  to  their  trade.  It  was  insinuated 
that  the  Indians  had  a  right  and  ought  to  insist  upon  the 
Britisii  Merchants  being  i:dmitted  into  their  country.  A/iat 
the  Indians  v/ould  deri\'e  greater  advaninges  from  the  trade 
of  the  British  merchants  in  respect  to  the  quality  and  price  of 
goods  than  fro.i  i  the  Americai:  and  that  the  Indians  Wvtuld 
be  in^  ted  to  Maiden  in  the  course  of  the  winter  to  consul t 
upon  Uie  subjects,  I  have  great  confidence  in  the  India  a  v,  j 
comrnuiiicated  this  information  to  me. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        717 

I  give  the  following  anclote  as  authorised.  Shortly  after 
the  peace  of  83  the  Britih  agent  at  Detroit  was  desirous  of 
prevaihi.g-  upon  the  IndiaiiS  to  continue  the  war  against  the 
Americans.  A  council  was  assembled  at  Detroit  detection 
was  apprehended  and  the  council  removed  to  the  Moravian 
Towns  in  Upper  Canada  there  the  Indians  were  promised 
arms  and  what  'ver  might  be  necessary  to  enable  them  to  pros- 
ecute the  war  and  the  means  devised  for  their  receiving  them 
in  such  manner  as  not  to  implicate  the  British  Government  in 
respect  to  the  Treaty  of  Peace  then  recently  made  between 
that  Government  and  the  United  States.  A  gentleman  of  re- 
spectability now  here  was  at  the  council. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  very  respectfully  Sir 
Your  Obedient  Servnt. 
p  <^  B.  Parke 

Since  vv^riting  the  above  a  Miami  has  sent  me  a  message 
thri  >h  a  respectable  Channel  that  not  long  since  a  Kickapoo 
probcibly  of  the  Otter  Band  liid  a  Pottawatomie  of  Gomas* 
band  came  to- the  Miaraies  at  Mississinnevv^ay  with  a  war  letter 
from  s  they  said  the  Pattaw-.tomy  and  Kickapoo  Trib  . 
They  said  tliat  those  a'ibes  intended  to  make  Vv^ar  against  the 
United  States  next  Spring,  that  they  might  even  take  some 
scalps  this  Winter,  they  wished  the  Miamis  to  unite  with 
them  if  not  they  vv-ould  consider  and  treat  them  as  enemies, 
they  alleged  the  sur  eying  the  mniitary  lands  between  the  Illi- 
nois and  Mississij'^^n  and  the  non  arrival  of  their  ammunities 
as  a  cause  of  their  hostile  views.  The  Miamis  refused  to  ac- 
cept their  belt. 

I  have  been  extremely  ill  of  an  influenza  but  I  ai.i  so  far 
recovered  that  I  expect  to  ].:ave  hoi.ie  for  Gov;  don  next  week 
and  after  Court  intend  to  visit  yoa  at  Jeffeisonville.  I  v/ish 
to  have  a  personal  conference  with  you  in  respect  to  Indian 
affairs.  p    p 

Copy  of  a  letter  froin  Jiidge  B.  Parke  to  Gov.  Po:^.ey 
B.  Parke  TO  Posey 

ViNCENNES  Feb.  11  1816 
Har.  P'l.  379,  380 

Sir: 

Ti  0  Indians  are  constantly  inquiring  when  they  may  expect 


718  INDIANA  IITSTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

their  annuities.  Much  uneasiness  and  some  ill  Vvill  have  been 
mf.nifested  on  account  of  their  non  arrival  and  their  makins' 
this  a  subject  of  complaint  might  probably  be  considered  as 
an  evidence  of  an  unfricidly  disposition.  I  have  told  them 
that  there  had  not  yet  been  time  to  enable  the  President  to 
send  them  on.  Could  the  Indians  receive  their  annuities 
shortly,  I  believe  it  vv^ould  produce  the  best  effects. 

From  the  Indian  Treaties  published  it  appears  that  the  Ver- 
million Kickapoos  are  not  provided  for  in  the  manner  that 
the  other  Wabash  Indians  have  been.  The  annuity  under  the 
Treaty  of  the  9th  Dec.  1809  is  not  revived.  As  the  latter  are 
to  receive  the  sam ;.  amount  to  \Yhich  they  were  entitled  in 
1811  it  might  be  unpolitic  to  malco  a  solitary  exception  of  the 
former. 

I  have  t],e  honor  to  be  &  .         B.  Parke 

To  Gov.  Posey 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville,  Ini'   Ter.  March  16th  1816 
Sir: 

1  hej-ev.'ith  inclose  to  you  two  letter  [Feb.  11  above]  lately 
received  from  Judge  B.  Parke  deputy  assist  and  Indian  Agent 
at  Vincennes. 

I  have  tlie  honor  to  be  with  respect  and  /esteem  Your  Ob.t. 

^^'■^'-  TK.  POSEY 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

Vincennes  15th  Feb,  1816 

Har.  Pa.  370 

Sir: 

The  Little  Ducks  informs  that  a  short  time  since  a  Wea 
party  of  Sauky  sixty  in  number,  v;^ere  on  their  march  to  pun- 
ish the  Miamis  (or  rather  Vv^ea:;)  for  the  Death  of  Renard, 
(see  my  letter  April  20th  1815)  who  was  crippled  at  this 
pla-^e  last  A.  ril  by  Sto)ie  Eater  but  that  tlirough  the  intei- 
position  of  the  Kickapoos  they  had  been  induced  to  abandon 
the  pi'oject  r.nd  return  to  their  own  country. 

This  may  appear  to  be  rather  an  improbable  tale  but  from 
the  well  kno^^^'l  friendship  that  has  long  since  subsi.sted  be- 
tween the  Sauks  and  Kickapoos  I  think  it  probable  that  the 
little  Du;.ks  is  correct. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        719 

,  It  is  i-roi  osed  hy  soniO  of  the  Citizens  of  the  Eastern  part 
of  the  Territory  to  petition  tlic  President  to  open  a  negoti- 
ation for  extinguishing  the  Lidian  title  to  the  Country  in- 
habited by  the  Delawares. 

However  desirable  it  may  be  to  acquire  that  Country  a 
more  improper  time  than  the  present  could  not  be  selected  to 
make  the  attempt.  The  Delawares  might  not  object  but  the 
Miamis  are  joint  owners  with  them  jf  the  country  watered 
by  White  River.  No  cession  of  the  Fornier  would  be  valid 
without  the  consent  of  the  latter.  That  I  am  v/ell  assured 
could  not  now  be  ol  tained  and  it  would  be  at  the  risk  of  a 
new  \var  that  the  proposition  would  be  made  to  them. 

The  8th  of  Novembe"  last  I  mentioned  to  you  V.  d  it  was 
desirable  to  obtain  permission  of  the  Delawares  and  Miamis 
to  open  a  road  through  tlie  Delaware  counby  or  a  direct 
route  from  Dayton  to  this  place.  To  this  I  believe  they  would 
accef'e  and  for  a  time  nothing   more  ought  to  be  attempted. 

At  the  same  time  I  mentioned  the  case  of  Laframbois'  Horse 
is  the  horse  or  an  equivalent  likely  to  be  recovered?  K  not 
tis  time  I  gave  Laframbois  as  I  promised  a  Hoi'se  to  re- 
munerate him  for  his  loss.  Labc.  -.eiure  is  dead.  1  liope  aiid 
expect  that  Laframbois  \\m11  supply  his  place  the  Weas  could 
not  make  a  better  choice. 

A  son  of  1he  Grand  Poc  is  substituted  by  the  Eickapoos  fo. 
the  deceased  Renard.  The  latter  was  a  good  man  the  family 
of  the  former  is  one  of  tli  most  mi'.cliievous  in  the  Indian 
Country. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be 

B.  Pakke 

Copy  of  a  letter  from  Judge  B.  Parke  to  Gov.  Posey 

'V-  •■  '  ■      B.  Parke  to  Posey 

■        ■  VINCENNES  Feb.  19  1816 

Har.  Pa.  375-378 

Sir: 

A  Wea  i  "orms  tliat  the  Lliamis  have  received  a  Talk,  from 
the  Winabagoes  and  jther  nations  in  that  quarter  desiring 
them  to  cause  the  Americans  to  remove  fi'om  the  Lands  (  i 
the  Vv'abash  purchased  in  1809  and  that  should  it  be  neces- 
sary they  v/ould  render  such  aid  as  vrould  enable  thon  to 
effect  it. 


720  INDIANA  HIS".  (/RICAL  COLT.ECTIONS 

-  The  above  wa^:.  first  coniinimic.  Led  by  a  very  Vv-orthless  fel- 
low but  has  since  been  confirmc^d  by  an  Indian  of  a  good  char- 
acler  and  who  has  long-  been  very  much  attached  to  my  Intsi:- 
preter. 

A  Kickapooe  lately  from  Maiden  states  that  two  Attav/as 
and  Chippeways  'lad  been  killed  at  or  near  Detroit  by  the 
American.',  and  tl,  .t  those  ti'ibes  were  so  much  irritated  that 
they  contemplated  hostilities. 

Another  Kickcipoo  told  my  Interpreter  at  the  Fort  confi- 
dentially that  me::it  of  tlie  young'  men  of  his  Tribe  v/ere  more 
inclined  to  war  than  peace,  he  stated  fui'tlier  th^.t  a  Kickapoo 
chief  lately  fi'om  Maiden  had  reported  that  the  British  were 
strengthening-  themselves  in  Canada  shortly  expected  a  rein- 
forcement of  Troops  and  that  they  had  informed  the  Indians 
that  as  the  Americans  had  vio;:;ited  the  Treaty  in  sheding 
Indian  Blood  they  would  make  war  on  them  next  spring-  to 
avenge  thei    injuries. 

You  may  recollect  that  towards  the  close  of  the  Grand 
Council  at  Detroit  Ve  Prophet  with  some  Kickapoos  etc  Vvith- 
'.'rew  went  over  to  the  British  and  refused  to  sign  the  Treaty. 
It  is  to  those  misc]-eants  that  we  e  indebted  for  the  circula- 
tion through  the  L:.dian  country  of  so  many  mischievou,  tales 
from  Maiden. 

It  might  be  supposed  that  the  kindness  and  humanitj''  the 
candoi  and  integrity  manifested  by  our  government  in  the 
intercourse  with  the  Indians  contrasted  with  the  conduct  of 
the  British  Government  would  conciliate  and  attach  them  to 
the  former  and  totally  aleniate  them  from  the  latter.  It  is 
however  not  tlie  fact,  but  precisely  the  reverse.  The  Ameri- 
cans they  almost  unanimously  distrust  and  detest  but  as  oc- 
casion mvites  they  hesitate  not  a  moment  in  throwing  them- 
selves in  the  Arms  of  the  British..  The  most  vulgar  con- 
temptable  trader  of  the  NW.  Company  can  exercise  a  more 
extensive  and  decisive  influence  over  them  than  the  most  dis- 
tinguished agent  the  President  has  in  employ.  And  thus  it 
will  ahvays  be  vdiilst  the  British  Agents  or  Traders  have  ac- 
cess to  or  can  maintain  any  Ivind  of  intercourse  v/ith  tht     . 

There  was  neither  deception  or  intrigue  practised  in  obtain- 
ing the  treatj'-  of  1809  it  was  fairly  and  honorably  negoti.  ted. 
The  several  Tribes  who  were  Parties  to  it  were  highly  grati- 
fied \/ith  the  arrangement  and  it  Wiis  probably  for  a  time  the 
most  popular  treaty  evci"  made  on  the  Wabash.    Nine  m  nth;3 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        721 

;ifter,  the  Propliet  at  the  instigation  of  the  Bi'itish  a  id  sup- 
ported by  his  posse  of  Winebagocs  at  Tippecanoe  first  taught 
the  Miamis  to  believe  that  they  had  been  deceived  and  de- 
frauded of  the  lands  acquired  by  that  treaty.  Labossieure 
took  the  lead  amongst  the  Weas,  and  until  his  deatli  perse- 
vered in  his  opposition  and  muririurs.  His  memory  is  warmly 
cherished  by  many  of  the  band  and  1  suspect  some  collusion 
between  them  and  the  distant  Indians  with  respect  to  th,  re- 
ported threat  of  the  Winebagoes,  etf.  I  believe  that  some 
mischievous  project  is  on  foot  but  ^  ether  it  is  confined  to 
a  few  restless  intriguous  fellov/s  or  extends  to  tribes  I  can- 
not deteri  ine  probably  I  may  be  able  to  asc  rtain  there  facts 
in  the  course  of  two  or  three  weeks. 

I  ha^  c  the  honor  to  be  B.  Parke 
Governor  PosEY 

Davis  Floyd  to  Posey 

February  24th  1816 

Har.  Pa.  371 

Sir: 

A  Delaware  Indian  by  the  name  of  Nagomen  Lately  on  a 
visits  to  the  trading  houses  i  drift  wood  River  in  a  confiden- 
tial manner  communicated  io  a  person  there  in  my  employ 
to  be  communicated  to  your  Excellency  that  a  part  of  the 
Potawatomies  and  a  part  of  the  Kickapoos  v/ere  still  mad 
and  would  probably  strike  the  white  pec;  Io  the  ensuing 
Spring  that  the  British  tlieir  Fathers  would  also  soon  be  mad 
and  that  they  would  be  supported  by  tliem. 

This  Delav.are  is  a  mafi  of  consi^'erable  consequence  in  the 
Delaware  nation  being  one  of  their  first  war  Chiefs — lie  is 
entitled  to  the  confidence  of  the  Americans  having  accom- 
panied Gen'l  Harrison  on  l,.s  expedition  against  Canada. 
Whether  the  uneasiness  is  general  or  confined  to  a  few  rest- 
less vagabonds  time  alor  e  can  develop.  Certp.''i  it  is  the  fel- 
low who  gave  the  information  is  sijicerc  in  his  belief. 

I  am  res]    ctfully  your  Obedicit  Servant 

Davls  Floyd 
His  Excv  Gov.  PosEY 


722  INDIANA  IIISTOIUCAL  COLLECTIOrS 

B.  Parke  to  .'osey 

VINCENNES  Feb.  29,  1.81G 
Har.  Pa.  383 

Sir: 

Tlie  LittiG  Ducks  and  another  Kickapoos  inform  IJiat  there 
are  two  Pottawatomis  and  one  Otawas  in  tlie  neighbonrhood 
of  the  frontiers  who  intend  to  steal  some  horses  and  perhaps 
take  •<■■  sccdp. 

I  am  respectfully  Sir  /our  Oby.  Servt. 

};.  Parke 

Posey  to  SECRfiTARY  of  War 

Jefferson viLLE,  1st  l^iarch  ISIG 

Har.  Pa.  368 

Sir: 

From  recent  information.  I  think  it  is  discoverable  that  the 
Indians  entertain  a  hostile  temper  and  disposition  toward 
the  U=  States.  They  surely  contemplate  mischief  toward  the 
settlements  upon  our  froiitiei  ^  and  probably  upon  the  whole 
of  the  Northwestern  frontiers. 

I  herewith  inclose  to  you  copies  of  sundry  letters  from 
Judge  B.  Parke  deputy  Indian  agent,  and  one  from  Maj. 
Davies  Floyd  [see  above]  who  is  licensed  to  keep  a  trading 
house  for  the  Indians  [on  Di-iftwood] .  Should  any  thing  far- 
t];or  transpire  relative  to  the  unfriendly  temper  of  the  In- 
dians, it    ''all  be  made  known  to  you. 

I  have  tiie  \:onor  to  be  very  respectfully 
Your  Obi.  Scrvnt 

Th.  Posey 
Hon.  William  H.  Crawford  Sccretanj  of  War 

City  of  Washington 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNOKNNES  IMarch  G,  'IG 

liar.  Pa.  331,  382 

Sir: 

On  Thursday  evejiing,  I  learned  that  a  fow^  days  before  an 
Ip'  m  came  to  a  party  of  Harris'  surveyors  on  tlie  N.  W. 
sir  of  the  Wabash,  eight  or  ten  miles  distant  from  Fort  Har- 
ri;:.on  defaced  the  marlcs  tliey  had  made  on  a  corner  tree  and 


HARRISON:     ]^^ESSAGES  AND  LETTiJRS        72? 

manifested  such  a  degree  of  anger  and  resentment  towards 
them  that  apprelicnding*  he  would  proceed  to  open  violence, 
Harris  and  all  his  i  eople  abandoned  their  work  and  came  to 
the  Fort.  They  add  that  they  thought  from  his  lohistlmg 
and  whoo'ping  there  was  a  party  within  hearing  ready  to  sup- 
port him.  I  should  infer  precisely  the  reverse  believe  he  was 
entirely  alone  and  that  there  v'as  no  necessity  for  discontinu- 
ing the  survey.  The  circumstance,  however  has  excited  alarm 
and  Harris  is  not  inclined  to  resume  the  work  unless  an  ar- 
rangement should  be  made  for  ensuring  th<  personal  safety 
of  himself  and  hands.  I  have  offered  him  an  escort  of  friendly 
Indians  which  for  the  present  is  all  that  I  think  necessary. 
Should  he  not  accept  it  other  measures  must  I  suppose  be 
t;  '  en. 

A  Kickapoo  quavv"  informs  rry  i  iterpreter  that  incaiy  of 
the  Pottawato  -.  having  been  ii.  ited  by  the  Briti  li  are  gone 
to  Maiden  anc-  that  many  more  are  about  procecdin;-  to  the 
same  place. 

I  am  very  respectfully  Sir  You.r  Obt.  Servant. 

B.  Parke 
His  Ex.  Gv  V.  Posey 

P.  S.  Your  1  ,.ter  of  the  23ih  ult.  by  Col.  [Allen  B.]  Thorn 
has  been  received. 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 

ViNCENl'ES  April  10th,  1816 

Har.  Pa.  SSi,  3S5 

Sir: 

By  the  .'_rd  article  of  the  treaty  of  Fort  Wayne  (7th  June 
1803)  it  was  stipulated  that  the  Tiibes  who  were  parties  to 
it  should  annually  recei\c  a  quantity  of  salt,  not  exceeding 
one  hundred  and  fifty  bushels.  The  Weas  and  Vermillion 
Kickapoos  have  lately  ^-'eminded  me  that  they  expected  ilie  salt 
to  which  they  were  entitled  under  that  article. 

No  injury  has  yet  been  done  oi  the  frontiers  and  the  little 
Ducks  and  others  ca  the  Vermillion  Kickapoos  vehemently 
deny  any  knowledge  of  the  warriors  of  their  tribe  contem- 
plating the  perpotr:,tion  of  mischief. 

Inclosed  herewith  arc  tv/o  talks  delivered  on  Sunday  last  to 
Ma,',  [Willoughby]  Morgan  at  Ft.  Harrison.  Lafrombois  is 
a  \  ea  and  the  Ducks  a  Vennillion  Kick^i};    >.     It  appears 


724  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Ihrt  they  are  sM\  indisposed  to  yeikl  with  respect  to  the  dis- 
puted boundary.  The  Weas  miO.  Vermillion  Kickapoos  are 
too  contemptablc  to  admit  of  the  suposition  that  this  plan 
of  opposition  orig-iLated  with  them.  The  pretention  has  been 
a-Z/anced  under  an  idea  that  they  would  be  countenanced  and 
supported  by  the  other  Indians.  To  the  British  they  appear 
to  listen  with  complaisance  and  attention,  and  promptly  ac- 
cede to  the  arraiigement  proposed  by  them.  Lafrombois  too 
has  received  a  belt  from  the  british  advising  the  Weas  to  bo 
quiet  and  no'-  injure  the  americans.  These  stories  are  in- 
tended to  amuse,  are  but  half  told  and  the  balance  may  prob- 
abl}^  be  pointed  out  in  a  few  days.  Lafrombois  insinuates 
that  I  acted  improperly  in  selecting-  the  Indians,  I  intended 
to  invite  to  the  Cc:  ncil.  I  told  the^n  that  I  should  send  for 
all  the  Miamis  the  v^'ermillion  Kickapoos,  and  the  Delawares 
and  as  the  little  Otter  of  the  Prairie  Vv'as  a  particular  friend 
of  ihe  Vermillion  band,  frequently  transacted  business  with 
them  and  vvith  their  ovm  chiefs  signed  their  treaties  that  I 
should  send  for  him  also  but  as  to  the  other  chief  of  the 
Prairie  Kiclrapoos,  I  l^  ould  not  send  for  them.  The  Vermil- 
lion Kickapoos  are  intruders,  but  they  have  for  raa'  y  years 
been  in  the  quiet  possess!*;  of  the  country  they  inhabit  on 
the  Wabash  a^-J  Vermillion  and  may  novv^  be  considered  as 
the  rightfull  occupants.  ,-.  p.^^^p 

Go  7.  Posey 

P.  S,  I  believe  the  story  of  the  Squaw.  She  is  of  a  power- 
full  fan  lly  and  disregards  the  Ducks  and  his  squav'.  A 
Kickapoo  left  the  Ft.  Ilaslily  just  after  she  arrived,  and  I 
believe  gave  notice  to  the  .var  party  that  v,'as  approaching 
our  settlements  that  they  were  discovered.  I  am  of  the 
opinion  that  no  mischief  will  be  done  till  the  term  of  the 
grand  council  is  over.  I  have  attended  to  your  instructions 
and  have  no  knowledge  of  any  intruders  on  Ii:.dian  lands  in 
this  Territory.  B.  Parke 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 
;,.  .  Jeffersonvillb  Indiana  Territory  20th  April  1816 

q      .  Har.  Pa.  3S6-3SS 

I  h'  -.^ewith  incivso  to  you  two  talks  [following]  of  the  In- 
dians also  the  c     y  of  a  letter  just  received  from  Judge  B. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        725 

I'..rke.  [Apr.  10  above.]  He  advised  of  meeting  t}i;  t  lie 
liad  with  the  Indians  at  Fort  Harrison  of  recent  date  and 
that  he  had  appointed  the  23  of  May  for  a  grand  council  of 
tlie  Indians  to  be  held  at  sd  place.  He  observed  that  he  had 
communicat'.d  v/ith  you  and  given  you  an  account  of  the  re- 
sult of  the  meeting  apologising  to  me  for  the  step  he  had 
taken ;  that  it  was  owing  to  the  siiortness  of  the  time  and  the 
necessity  of  the  communication  reaching  the  department  ^ 
war  i]'  the  most  speedy  manner.  He  furnished  mo  with  copies 
of  his  letters  communicated  to  you. 
I  am  very  respectfully 

Your  Obt.  Servant. 

TH.  POSr-Y 

Hor-)le  William  H.  Crav/ford,  Secrclanj  of  War 
City  of  Washington. 

Lafrombols  said  th..t  he  had  but  little  to  commuriicate  and 
that  related  to  peace.  That  Pecan  had  se:  i  a  m.essage  to  all 
i'e  Miainis  informing  them  that  he  was  about  ecitablishing 
a  village  et  Eel  River,  and  invited  them  to  bring  their  wives 
and  c'uildren  thei-e.  That  they  would  endeavor  to  establish 
their  village  in  the  old  form.  Tl^^t  their  presents  would  be 
delivered  at  Ft.  Wayne,  that  the  com -nan ding  officer  at  Ft. 
Wayne  told  him  that  there  were  many  dishonest  agents  but 
he  would  see  that  justice  was  done  them.  That  tlo  President 
would  fulfill  all  his  ey;jr  ,:ments  with  him  snd  that  he  La- 
frombols) had  learned  that  the  British  had  sent  a  belt  to  the 
Kickapoos  advising  them  to  remain  at  peace. 

Being  asked  whetlier  the  Indians  Iiad  thought  fartlier  on 
the  subject  of  the  disputed  boundary  Lafrombois  ansv/ered 
that  it  was  the  general  sentiment  amongst  tlie  Indians  the  t 
Gen.  Harrison,  Barron  the  Interpreter,  and  all  the  Indians 
w'  h  1  been  at  tl  e  treaty  (probably  that  of  the  30th  Sept. 
1800)  should  be  called  togetlicr.  That  it  was  probable  that 
some  of  the  Indians  did  not  understand  the  subject.  That 
the  Kickapoos  had  been  sejit  for  but  that  they  had  nothinL 
to  do  with  it.    That  th  ■  land  never  belonged  to  them. 

It  being  suggested  that  their  opposition  to  the  treaty  re- 
peatedly ratified,  might  be  considered  unfriendly.  Lafrom- 
bois o]  .  rved  that  were  the  President  ofTended  he  could  not 
help  it.     That  it  would  be  hard  were  the  Indians  to  be  de- 


726  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

frauded  of  all  tlicir  land^.  The  Lilllo  Ducks  said  that  t\vo 
young-  men  had  arrived  with  .■  belt  of  Vv'-ampiim  from  the 
British,  i'liat  the  Brit;  li  told  them  thai  they  must  remain 
at  pea-,  e  and  neitlier  kill  tlic  white  people  or  steal  their  horses. 
That  if  they  went  to  war  again  tliey  would  be  ei'terminated 
that  they  were  too  weak.  That  when  the  British  and  Ameri- 
cans made  peace,  the  latter  promised  to  cloth  and  feed  the 
Indians  plentifully  but  when  they  looked  upon  them  they  sav^^ 
them  naked  and  starving.  That  they  did  not  expect  this. 
That  the  Americans  had  not  complied  with  their  promise. 
That  the  young  men  Vviio  brought  the  belt,  had  told  the  Iri- 
dians,  that  the  British  gave  them  more  than  'hey  could  de- 
stroy whilst  the  Indians  v/ithi^:  the  American  Territorj'-  had 
scarcely  any  thing  to  eat. 

That  the  British  advised  the  Kickapoos  to  collect  in  a  vil- 
lage o  the  V/abash.  That  they  would  do  so  bit  had  not  yet 
fixed  u;  .)n  a  place.  That  the  E  -itish  advised  tlie  Miamis  to 
do  the  same  thing  and  for  the  Miamies  and  Kickapoos  to  live 
together  as  friends.  That  if  the  Kickapoos  sav/  any  of  the 
Pottawatomies  moving  tov/ard  the  frontiers  for  a,  mischiev- 
ous pi  ,>ose  they  Vv^ere  advised  by  the  britisli  to  give  infor- 
mation   of  it  to  the  Ame: leans.     (Copy) 

B.  Parke  to  Posey 
'     '  ViNCENNES  April  25  18 IG 

Har.  Pa.   ^90-392 

Sir- 

0  Sunday  Little  Eyes  informed  me  that  the  British  ha.. 
advised  the  Indians  not  to  permit  the  survey!  g  and  settle- 
ment of  their  lands  purchased  froin  them  untill  they  recei\  ed 
their  annuities  from  the  Unitoi'  States.  That  a  talk  to  that 
effect  had  been  dispatched  to  all  the  Indians  of  the  Indiana 
and  Illinois  (and  to  the  Mahas  Richards  and  C.  of  the  IMis 
souri)  and  furtlicr  that  in  the  course  of  this  year  a  great 
council  would  be  held  at  Port  ge  Desoux.  That  an  agent  of 
the  British  would  attend  it  to  see  that  the  Indians  had  jus- 
tic;;  done  them  l^y  the  U.  S.  in  v/hat  evc"  regarded  their  lands. 
He  added  that  the  exceptic  'able  conduct  of  the  Wcas  and  Ver- 
milli'  n  Kickapoos  at  Fort  Harrison  Vv  .;  jus' ly  to  be  attributed 
to  the  BriMsh. 
'     You  ar:   acquainted  v/ith  the  favorable  opinion  I  \\i\\Q  of 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        727 

Little  Eyes.  He  has  never  deceived  me  and  h(  ever  extraor- 
dinarj^"  or  improbable  his  communication  may  ax>pear,  I  assure 
you  I  have   :o  doubt  of  its  truth. 

I  rej:,ret  that  Little  Eyes  was  not  at  tl.'c  con  -il  but  bein,fj 
at  a  distant  hunting  ground  he  was  not  invited. 

Little  Eyes  observed  the  conduct  of  the  Weas  and  Vermil- 
lion Kickapoos  had  been  disingenious  and  flag-rantly  unjust. 
That  they  all  knew  the  land  had  been  sold  and  the  boundary 
fairly  established  and  that  instead  of  cavc'Tng  or  preten.divig 
they  knew  nothing  of  the  sale  they  ought  frankly  to  have 
acknowledged  the  cause  of  their  objection  to  the  surveying  of 
the  land.  That  liis  friendship  for  the  U.  State  induced  him 
to  offer  me  his  advice.  That  when  the  Indians  assem.bled  at 
Ft.  Harbison,  I  should  deli"'/er  them  their  annuities  whicli 
"\  ould  instantly  remove  all  obstacles  to  the  quiet  occupation 
of  the  land.  Otherwise,  he  apprehended  they  would  persist 
in  t' eir  opposition. 

'li.e  since  "ity  of  Litile  E;  cs  may  be  questioned,  but  vdiat 
ever  was  his  motive  for  suggesting  this  arrangement,  it  is  not 
to  be  dorbted  that  the  immediate  delivery  to  the  Indians  of 
their  annuities  would  have  a  good  effect.  Seven  iUv  ths  have 
elapsed  since  the  treaty  at  Detroit  and  ere  this  they  profess 
to  believe  their  goods  might  have  been  forwarded.  They  do 
not,  or  will  not  comprehend  the  explanations  frequently  given, 
as  to  the  cans  .■  of  this  delay.  British  agents  or  Traders  or 
disaffected  Indian:  ha  x  repeatedly  informed  them  that  the 
U.  States  vfoul  /  keep  their  land,  but  that  tliey  v»'-ould  paj^  tliem 
nothing  for  it.  That  they  need  not  expect  their  annuities  and 
that  the  President  vfould  deceive  them. 

B.  Parke 
To  Gov.  Posey 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

Jeffersonville  4th  May  1816 

Har.  Pa.  589 

Sir: 

I  herev/ith  inc'  .e  you  a  copy  of  a  lettei'  just  received  from 
Judge  B.  Parke,  [Apr.  25  above]  I  think  of  a  nature  worthy 
to  be  attended  to.  I  have  information  from  oihor  quaiiers 
of  the  same  nature.  The  Indian  are  very  loud  a.-d  restless 
in  their  complain' s,  of  not  having  received  their  annuities. 


728  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

They  are  under  strong  apprehenyion  that  the  II.  StatcG  mean 
to  defraud  them  and  take  their  kinds  from  them  without  mak- 
ing compensation.  Tiiere  is  a  quantity  of  salt  due  th^^jn  by 
treaty  which  is  mentio^ied  in  a  formci*  letter  of  Judge  Parke 
a  copy  of  which  was  i  olos  d  to  you.  I  have  given  them  par- 
tial supplies  of  salt,  with  supplies  of  provision  at  different 
times  '.ut  they  want  the  quantity  of  salt  stipulated  to  I^e  given 
the-  1  by  treatj^  I  do  not  conceive  myself  authoiized  to  g'rro 
it  to  them  without  directions  from  the  department  of  war. 
I  have  the  Honor  to  be  very  respect 
Your  Obt.  Servant 

Th.  Posey 
William  H.  Cravv^'^okd,  Secretary  of  V/ar 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  Wah 

Jeffersonville  11th  May  1815 

Hai\  Pa.  303 

Sir: 

The  information  given  of  the  19t;i  Ult.  from  the  Depart- 
ment )f  v  ',  came  to  hand  by  the  last  mail.  That  the  an- 
nuities 'lie  the  Kickapoos,  Weas,  and  Peankaiiaws  for  tl: 
years  1813,  14,  15  and  16  have  been  ordered  to  be  p  rehased 
and  sent  on  to  my  care  and  also  three  thousand  tv/o  hundred 
(..ollars  worth  of  goods  to  be  distributed  as  prese;  .s  to  the 
Indians  at  siich  times  and  on  such  occasions  as  I  may  deei.i 
proper. 

I  shah  carefully  attcu'l  to  all  the  instructions  and  think  it 
verv  importarif  that  the  goods  should  be  sent  on  as  speedily 
as  possible. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  with  great  respect 
Your  Obt,  Servant 

Th.  Posey 
Hon  William  K.  Crawford,  Secretary'  of  VJar 

Resolution  of  Constitutional  Convention 

CoRYDOi,  Indiana  Jud'  20  181o 

I'ar.  Pa.  J,10-.i,12 

Be  it  ordained  by  the  Representatives  of  the  people  of  the 
Territory  of  Indiai  a  in  Conventio    met  at  Corydon  on  Mon- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        725) 

day  the  tenili  day  of  June  in  the  year  of  our  Lord  eighteen 
hundred  and  sixteen  that  sve  do  for  ourselves  aiid  our  pos- 
terity, ag-ree,  determine,  declare  and  ordain  that  wo  will  and 
do  hereby  accept  the  propositions  of  the  Congress  of  the 
United  States,  as  made  and  contained  in  their  act  of  the  nine- 
teenth day  of  April,  eigiiteen  hundred  and  sixteen,  entitled 
"An  act  to  enable  the  people  of  the  Indiana  Territory  t  >  form 
a  Constitution  and  Sta^e  (Government,  and  for  the  admission 
of  such  State  into  the  Union  on  an  equal  footing  vvith  the 
original  States".  And  we  do  further  for  i.-^rselves  and  our 
posterity,  hereby  ratify,  conliini,  and  establ'  \i  the  boundaries 
of  the  -aid  State  of  Indiana  as  fixed,  prescribed,  iai.:I  dov/n, 
and  established  in  the  Act  of  C'  i gross  aforesaid,  and  we  do 
also  fui-ther  for  ourselves  ?nd  our  posterity,  hereby,  agree, 
determine,  declare,  and  ordain,  that  each  and  every  tract  of 
land  soil'  by  the  Unit  d  States  within  the  said  State,  and 
which  shall  be  sold  from  and  afte..  the  first  day  of  December 
next,  shrll  be  and  remain  exempt  from  any  tax  laid  by  order 
or  uiider  any  autho;  ity  of  the  said  State  of  Indiana,  or  by  or 
under  the  authority  of  liie  General  Assembly  thereof,  v/hether 
for  State,  Cf  'y,  or  To^=.  nship,  or  any  other  purpose  what- 
ever for  the  ;j.  )\  of  five  ye^rs  from  and  a^ter  the  day  of  sale 
of  any  such  tract  of  land  and  we  do  moreover  for  ourselves 
and  our  posterity  hereby  declare  and  ordain  thaj  this  o  di- 
nance  and  every  part  thereof  shall  foi-ever  be  and  remain  ir- 
revocable, and  inviolate  without  the  consent  of  the  United 
States  in  Cong-;  ess  assembled  first  had  and  obtained  ;^or  the 
alteration  ther'.of  or  any  part  thereof.  Done  in  Convention 
June  29th  1816.    By  order  of  the  C'-nvcntion, 

Jonathan  Jennings 
President  of  tlie  CGnvention 
Attest : 
William  "Tendricks,  Secy. 

Gibson  to  Secretary  of  State 

Jefferson viLi.:.  July  6th  1816 

liar.  Pa.  J^:      ) ',() 

Sir: 

I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  you  a  transcript  •'  f  the  proceed- 
ings of  the  Executive  of  the  Indiana  Tei-ritory  fo}'  the  hali 
year  ending  the  30th  of  June  1816.     [Not  found]     The  Con- 

49— 22GC1 


730  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COL..ECTi()NS 

venticii  of  the  Territory  closed  its  sgp  .ion  of  tlirce  weeks  on 
Saturday  the  30th  ultimo.  They  Imvc  formed  a  Constitution, 
and  detci'mined  to  commence  the  oper^-tions  of  theii-  State 
Government  the  fii'st  Mon^^ny  in  November  next.  I  h' i^e  It 
wiil  be  in  my  power  to  transmit  you  a  printed  co_;.y  of  it  by 
next  mail. 

I  have  the  he  or  to  be  v/ith  high  consideration  of  esteem 
and  respect 

Yr.  most  obt.  servt. 

Jno.  Gibson 
The  Honble.  James  IIokroe,  Sccty.  of  Siatc 

To  THE  Senate  and  E  use  of  Repeesentatives  of  the 
United  States  the  Memoeial  op  the  LEciSLA'iijiiE  of  tih'' 
Indiana  TEr  ttory  ]\Iost  Respectfully  SiiEVr'    ri : 

That  tiiv  inl  .bitants  of  the  said  Territory  suffer  evils  from 
the  nature  of  their  political  institutions  to  which  it  becomes 
their  nnperioi's  duty  to  seek  a  constitutional  remedy.  VvHien 
an  interesting'  portion  of  the  american  population  unite  in 
forming*  a  wish  for  an  important  chang-e  in  their  political 
situation  it  may  be  fairly  infei'cd  that )  o  palliative  •  can  lessen 
the  evils  they  endure  and  it  is  an  happy  circum.-;..ance  that 
th'  redress  which  is  he  object  of  the  present  memoii  il  ■.) 
obtain  has  been  foreseen  provided  for  and  will  excite  in  its 
acco)nplisiiment  neither*  convulsioii  nor  storm. 

Your  memorialists  v;ill  not  arraigni  the  wisdom  of  Congress 
in  forming  the  ordinance  for  the  Government  of  the  North- 
western Territory.  They  may  have  had  solid  reasons  fo)'  giv- 
ing to  the  Territorial  O]'  Coloneal  governments  ilu:  singular 
monarchial  feature  they  now  exhibit.  But  it  will  be  allov/ed 
that  all  those  governments  present  features  vciy  little  recon- 
cilable to  the  principles  vhich  ha\c  go\-erncd  the  institutioris 
of  the  different  states  of  the  Union. 

Born  and  educated  in  the  different  states  of  tliu  Union;  in 
the  enjoyment  of  civil  and  political  rights,  they  think  it  haixl 
to  be  in  a  degree  disfranchised  as  a  pcop  .;  wlion  1hcy  have 
done  710  crime,  but  by  their  niigratiofi  thither  confered  a  bono- 
ht  to  the  Uidted  i  ^ates. 

Your  memorialists  deeply  impressed  wiLh  a  sense  of  tlK'i!' 
}.rovincial  dependence,  in  b/half  of  themselves  and  cc  i&titu- 
ents  now  make  a  solcnm  appeal  to  th  nati;*ii,'il  Le;:i;;>la!.in  o 
and  pray  tluit  they  Uiay  have  the  liliorty  of  forming  a  con- 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        731 

'  stitution  and  be  admitted  as  an  independent  ;:.tate  into  the 
Union  upon  the  same  footing-  as  one  of  the  oi-iginal  states. 
The  unexampled  increase  in  population  of  the  state  of  Ohio 
warrant  the  ijolief  that  similar  consequences  vrould  attend 
the  emancipation  of  Indiana,  It  is  principle  anr  not  men  or 
measures  that  Vv-'e  complain  of,  and  confiding  in  i  e  justice  of 
our  cause  we  doubt  not  of  our  case  meeting  proper  considera- 
tion and  you  memoi-ialists  as  in  duty  bound  will  ever  pra}' 
etc. 

GiJNL.  YV.  Johnston,  S'peakcr  of  the  House  of  Rcjrrescntativcs 

and 
Jas.  Bi'^GGS,  Picsidsnt  of  the  Lcgidc  ive  Council 

Posey  to  Seckbtary  of  Waf, 

Jeffersonville  Inc.  Ter  24  Se.  t.  181G 

Har.  Pa.  3'.)J^,  COo 

Sir: 

At  different  shipmenis  from  the  arsenal  near  Pittsburg 
sent  on  by  Maj.  [Abram  R.]  Woolley,  I  have  received  a  fov/ 
days  sirico  tlie  whole  of  the  goods  ordered  l^y  Govcrnmeiit  to 
my  address.  The  U.  &.  pi-esen'  and  the  annuities  for  the 
Weas,  Kickapoos  and  Pyankasliav.^s  for  the  years  1813-14-15 
and  16.  And  yesterday  I  shipped  thera  to  Viiicennes  to  be 
delivered  there  to  Judge  C  Parke  to  whom  I  have  given  direc- 
tions to  send  them  immediately  on  to  Ft.  Harrison  ■  dis- 
tribution, except  the  Pyankashaws  an'iuities  vvjiich  I  have 
directed  to  be  stored  at  Shav/nectovvm  under  the  care  of  Mr. 
Joseph  U.  Street  subject  to  be  called  for  by  Col.  Pierre 
Menard  Indian  Agent  at  Kaskaskiii  for  him.  to  deliver  to  the 
Pyankashaws  agreeable  to  the  solicitatio;i  of  Governors  [Will- 
5!.;  i]  Clark  and  [j 'inian]  Euv/ards  by  whom  I  was  infonned 
that  it  w^ould  be  very  inconvenient  for  the  Pyankashaws  to 
attent  at  Ft.  Harrison.  They  living  at  a  considerr]4e  dis~ 
t,  nee  therefrom  and  they  being  miserably  poor  and  needy 
the  four  hundred  dolUfs  that  I  am  authorized  to  draw  upon 
the  department  of  war  for  to  ]jo  ])aid  them  in  cash  if  equally 
convenient  to  goverimicmt  I  would  be  glad  to  obtain  an  order 
upon  the  receiver  at  Vincenncs  or  Kaskaskia  for. 

I  have  the  Honor  to  be  with  great  resp^^ct  Your  01   .  Servant 

Til  Posey 

P.  S.     1  shall  a'tend  at  Fort  Harrison  by  the  time  the  goods 
reach,  there  for  the  purpose  of  v  "sti-ibuting  them. 


732  INDJArlA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

Posey  to  Seck^jtaky  of  War 

Jei    Cj    ONVlLLE  2yth  Sept.  1816 
Har.  Pa.  COT 

Sir: 

Yours  of  tlie  Gth  inst.  I  have  received  8"iving-  iiriormalion 
of  my  .i.ppointment  together  with  Judge  B.  Parke  and  Phidilio 
Sharp  for  holding.:  a  treaty  with  the  Indians  for  a  purchase 
of  land.  1  have  al.'^o  received  a  letter  of  instructions  relative 
thereto  of  the  12th  inst.  and  shall  pay  the  ner  sary  atten- 
tion to  tJie  business.  I  have  written  on  to  Judge  Parke  and 
Mr.  Sharp  and  expect  an  ar3^angeine]]t  will  take  plac;.  imme- 
diately to  carry  into  execution  the  design  of  the  President. 
The  goods  sent  on  to  nie  to  Ido  distributed  to  the  Indians  at 
present  I  expect  to  make  use  ot.  while  engaged  iit  the  treaty 
and  it  may  be  that  I  shall  have  to  make  some  purchases.  I 
sli  order  supplies  of  provisions  but  it  w'U  also  bo  necessary 
to  nave  the  con'i'nand  of  sorre  money,  co  -d  an  arrangement 
be  made  to  get  money  from  some  of  the  receivers  of  tnis  part 
of  the  country  or  from  some  of  the  Banks?  Of  this  you  will 
please  'nfo]"7i  me. 

I  liave  the  lion''    to  bo  ■  "th  great  respect 
Your  Obt  S.irvant 

Til  Posey 
Hon  the  s-  ty.  of  War  Wiij.iam  H.  Crawford 

Posey  Tr   "eci    tary  of  War 

ViNCENNES  24th  Oct.  181 

Sir: 

j  arrived  here  or  Monday  in  oi'der  to  meet  some  Indian 
chiefs  that  are  here  and  am  on  my  way  to  F.  Plaiiison  to 
the  Treaty  to  be  held  there.  The  Water  is  so  extrcinely  low 
that  the  Indian  annuities  and  presents  have  not  yet  rea-.Icd 
this  plac  I  am  anxioi  -y  waiting  for  thorn  and  shall  go  on 
to  Ft.  iiarrison  with.  tli:;m  for  tlie  pui'p.  c  of  distributioii. 
Tln\e  chiefs  are  hero  to  visit  my  elf  and  Judge  Park.  Little 
Eyes  and  Sa,co  of  the  Weas.  I  am  very  attentive  o  them, 
have  made  them  ,^omo  presents  etc.  They  ap/pca]*  tu  be  in  a 
pretty  good  humor  we  have  met  and  conversed  several  times 
sometimes  upon  the  business  of  tao  land,  but  verjv  litely  upon 


HARI  ISCV^:     MESSAGES  AXD  LETTEIIS        733 

that  subject  whenever  it  is  mentioned  it  comes  froi  i  them- 
selves. We  dont  wish  to  say  much  upon  that  subject  untill 
they  receive  their  annuities  and  presents.  I  ship'd  the  In- 
dian goods  from  JefFersonville  all  in  good  order  on  the  27th 
Ult.  Since  here  I  have  sent  an  expa'css  to  know  what  detains 
them  and  to  know  :..t  whr.t  time  vro  may  expect  them,  The 
success  of  the  Treaty  very  much  depends  upon  a  spc  y  dis- 
tribution of  the  annuities  and  presents.  I  think  the  business 
in  a  pretty  good  train  an?'  that  thei'c  can  scarcely  be  any 
doubt  of  success  'n  the  pui'chase  of  some  land  more  or  less 
the  least  quanti  may  be  a  million  of  acr.s  a  great  chance 
for  more.  We  m.iy  be  under  the  necessity  of  maldng  more 
presents  than  what  is  committed  to  my  char;"-e — for  that  i  ur- 
pose  $3,200  is  the  ammount. 

I  have  this  moment  heard  fi'om  the  boat  brin;,  ing  on  tlie 
Indian  goods.  The  goods  are  all  safe,  but  the  boat  cannct 
progress  for  vvant  of  water.  I  must  use  some  method  by 
small  craft  or  waggoning  to  get  them  on.  The  treaty  will 
hold  on  the  e'l  'venth  next  month. 

I  have  t]:e  honor  t     bo  very  respectful!" 
Your  Obt.  Servant 

Th.  Posey 

Ilonble.  Wm.  II.  Crawford,  Secretanj  of  Vicir 

Posey  to  Secretary  of  War 

VlNCEZ\>:i     Nov.  21  IS  16 

Har.  Pa.  30J-367 

Sir: 

In  furnishing  an  estimate  of  tjie  expenses  of  the  T  dian 
Dept.  at  this  pf  ?e  I  have  thought  it  v.'ould  be  but  to  exlribil 
a  statement  of  the  disbursements  that  have  been  made  on 
account  of  that  Dept.  from  the  time  I  came  into  office  up  to 
the  present  period  and  which  appears  from  tlie  papers  lierc- 
with  enclosed  r  arked  A  &  B.  From  these  you  will  bo  enabled 
to  judge  of  the  propriety  of  the  estima.o  mark  C,  an^-  vrlucl"; 
is  also  enclosed. 

The  Py-mkashaws  having  removed  bcyoiul  tlie  ^lississipiu. 
I  forward-  i  annuities  to  the  Agent  at  Kaskaskia  and  he  lias 
dcli\  ed  iom  to  the  Indians  and  beiieviog  that  the  CIov. 
would  hereafter  send  theii.  -m  io  th;it  i>hice,  I  \vc\\  \]<A  in- 
cluded tlierein  the  estimate  enclosed. 


734  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

'  ]\Iy  intercourses  willi  the  Dciewares,  Upper  Miainis  and  Pot- 
tawatamies  has  not  been  such  as  to  enal^lo  me  to  asco'tain 
tJi.;  number  of  persons  belonging:  to  those  tribes.  The  Wcas 
amount  to  four  liundred  arid  sixty  and  the  Vcrniilllon  Kicka- 
poos  to  four  hundred  and  forty  persons. 
I  have  the  Honor  to  be  vei-y  respectf. 

Sir  Your  Obedient  Servant. 

[Thoimas  Posky] 


An  f>  timatc  of  the  Lxp  riscs  of  tl\(,>  liuli;ui  Dopt.  ;vt  Vinceiraes 
or  year  1817 


,'inm '. lies 

Prp.^jciits 

Provisions 

Ti'anspof- 
Intion 

llf)iisc  rent 
&  Fuel 

Wcas 

Kicliapoos 

Dols           ots. 

Dolls.       Tts. 

i:)ol.      Cts. 

Dol.        Cis. 

Dol;;;.     Cts. 

Dolls      c;    . 

1150 

1000 

•!•;:  0 

5000 

or:-':- 

75 

Expenses. 

Some  Worl:  at 

Vincenncs 

A,c;ent 

Tntcrpretur 

CunP'.iiihat 
F(..  IImv. 

Dols             Cts. 

Dols              CLs. 

Dels.            Cts. 

Dols.          Cts. 

Dol.            Cts. 

100 

GO 

1500 

121S 

1095 

E.xpross  Tvider 
from  Vinociine.=: 
to  Ft.  Ilanisoii 

Dollars        Cl^, 


Total 


Doll:ns      Cent.' 


319  37>^ 


165S7  373.; 


HARRISON:     IMESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        7:^5 

Abstract  of  jjiovisioii  is^>uecl  by  the  Coutrac')!;  to  tlic  TiKJiniis  at 
Viiicentics  and  T  rt  HajTiso)>  fron  tbe  Lst  of  Sc'pionbor  ISU  to 
Isl  Novcmbej'  ISK) 

At  Viiiccnue- 


pouin!'^  of 

jjouti'l-':;  (.[ 

l)ou;ul.s  of 

porind     of 

beef 

Hour 

porlc 

soap 

Sep  ct  0(^1 

1814 

1070 

770 

Novoniijci-.  . 

(jOf 

310 

Decembci'.. . 

812 

788  j.;; 

58 

Ob; 

Januar^  ISl.j 

•123 

■r? 

3i'2 

12 ',2 

1  ■■bruftJ  ■■•.  .  . 

20 

3..') 

330 

5'  ■■ 

r larch 

]01 

7!il 

■    ■> 

3 

Ajsril 

50 

■1-.  3 

4  OS 

May 

5S 

210 

2on 

8 

June 

202 

103 

July 

180 

180 

August 

288 

281 

3 

S^    tembor.. 

304 

30  ^ 

12 

October .... 

2,;7 

237 

3 

552.-) 

5571 j J 

2100 

53bi 

Novcrnl  icr .  . 

635 

735 

11 

Decciibor... 

I'.H) 

270 

28 

January  1810 

4]0 

515 

3-1 

2 

Fcl)i-u;,ry  . .  . 

325 

410 

30 

March 

254 

25  [ 

10 

Api'il 

108 

3ys 

70 

07 

May 

•JU 

44!) 

3"0 

40 

June 

141 

J.  1 

July 

75 

50'; 

421 

39 

August 

1033 

943 

43 

8<'pt  ember.. 

140 

1012 

9G0 

Q4?  of 
Salt 

October  .... 

110 

100- 

1772 

02 

2103 

770..: 

4073 

370 

o 

brt.  Down  . . 

5525 

5571 K 

2100 

■,'V  ■> 

Total 

7028 

132733  V 

0773 

i2?,}C 

2 

nop 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COT.!  .FnTIGNS 

At  Ft.  Hn.rri.son 


Sept  i'^  Oct.  ISll 

jToveinbcr 

December 

January  1815 

February  

March 

Api-il 

May 

Ju..' 

July 

August 

Septouibcr 

October 


Noveiiiber. . . 
DeccriibL-r .  .  . 
January  1810 . 
I'ebruary  . .  .  . 

March 

April 

May 

Jmie 

July 

AugU:<t 

September . . . 
October 


brought  doM'n. 
Total 


l)OUfKl; 

of 
beef 


87(3 


87G 


15 
■1.J.J 

51'  J 
2nS3 
152 !>^ 


3170 


7300 
87C 

S17ij 


of 
fhju)' 


87G 


876 


12^2 

2S2 

3150 
::>M7 


4375 


of 


Oil) 

J  300 


3o; 


12032K'     2048 

870  ■'! 


1290^ 


2018 


of 

.Salt 


qts.  lbs 

W'hi.'-kev      f;oai) 


13 


13 
Oil- 


1 

72 
31  j 

5;' 
2fK;'''. 


14 
13 


672 


771  :       072 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AXD  Li^TTEi'S        T^T 

Ab.stract  of  th(>  Exi)fn.s(\s  other  tliaii  }')ro\i>ions  i<sin.d  by  th'.'- 
(CoRtracto  ■)  c-f  the  I'ulian  Dej)t— 


Transpor- 
tation 

House  ilcnl, 

and 

Fnel  f<u- 

iiidians 

Expi 

ess 

KeepiuiT 

li^d. 
Tlorses 

Kccpin;.' 

Public 

Horses  & 

liorse  hire 

Dolls.       Cio 

D.,,ils.       Ct-: 

'.■,>!. 

Cts 

D.iii-:.     Cts. 

Doll.-.       Cts 

33        . 

38       .... 

13      25 

115       ... 

•13      75 

50 

150 
1 10 

101       50 

7700       123 i 

25 
..  .  , 

%      75 

10       .... 

7S10      62>^ 

20." 

3i0 

25 

40      75 

100      25 

Ferriages 

Medical 
Aid 

GunSi.oith 
\  ork  At 
Vince'Uics 

DoHs.      ^^ts 

Dolls.     Cts. 

Dolls.     Cts. 

.",0-1     /in 

3        .    . 

Note  —  Tliprr-  is  now  on  I-ind  of  t'-' 

3       .... 
i      50 

35       ... 

nbovc;    .■■ntoi;:i!    of   Prc-icni;'   j'^ircha.-i? 

for  the  y:-:\r   ISH'i 

Amt.  for.  by  CiV.          .3200 

of  i'oo-Ih  pur.  in 20S5 

10      50 

810      23jo 

52S5  Doh. 

3s  INDIANA  HiSTOlUCAL  COLLECTIONS 

Depi't'tmcnt  under  tho  siiperiiitendanccs  of  Gi.iveriior  T   Po-r  v 


riinSniith  Work  at 
Ft.  Har. 

Assistant 
liidi.in 
Agvra-. 

C: 

A.K 

Hi. 

•iai 
nt? 

1 

i              Iii'cvprctc  - 

Wages 

Purcha.sp  of 
.Shop  <t  Iron 

Doll.      C:^. 

1    \'ineonti.  .-j 

Har 

Dol.        Ct,5. 

Do!s.      Cts. 

Dol.?. 

Cts 

Dols.       Cts.  Dolls. 

Ct^. 

75 

'     390 

SO       .... 

4S0       .... 
4fj.)       .  .  . 

30 
1411 

1     624       .... 
,     024       .... 
:     5S0       .... 

CO 
511 
533 

20 

890       .... 
915 

ISl      75 

m 

ISOo       .... 

181      75 

9G0       .... 

lol4 

25 

;  2224      .... 

j 

1104 

so 

Extra 

A_llov,'anco 

to 

Interpret ors 

Occ.n.sionates 

Interpret ors 

Txprcs- 
Rides  from 

VineeiM!",-; 
to  I      ■: 
Harrison 

Tot 

1 
j 

a!       i 

1 
1 

D-  's.     Cts. 

Dolls.     Cts. 

Dolls.     Cts. 

Dolls. 

Ct.s.j 

491 

2022 

S-     : 

32421 

oo;  .J : 

60Mi 

393ii 
1 

137       .... 
51       .... 

16      50 

10      50 
50       12}^ 

39       .... 
307      37>^ 

204      50 

CO      C2>^ 

3 :        36M 

44,409 

30}..i| 
1 

P0SP]Y  TO  SECKETARY  OF  WAR 

\  iNCEN>;  .:-,  6th  Deci    1816 

Har.  Pa.  .^o:-^'):- 

Sir  : 

YoiiTs  of  the  23d  Sept.  I  rcc'd  at  ihi.^  place.  In  ordor  to 
lav  bcforj  the  Indians  I'l-  subject  which  you  Iiavo  recoir- 
iiiended  respectinr''  the  furnishin.u"  ihvm  mecli  iiics  i  Jioii:iht 
it  would  ad'ord  yoa  a  i^ood  opportunity  to  recuiiimeiKi  to  them 


IlARRISOX:     :SU:SSACES  AXD  LETTEJIS        7:^9 

to  go  into  a  Stale  v)f  civilization  for  iniless  tlioy  have  a  (..usiiv^ 
tu  become  civilized,  I\Iecliaiuc:s  will  be  of  very  liltlo  ii  j  lo 
them.  '!  'iCieroi'o  1  made  a  ypc^ech  to  llio]!!  upon  the  subject. 
a  copy  Oi.  wiiic  1  I  herewith  enc]o.>e  to  you  [follovriiiy.-].  Whcv 
I  have  said  is  mei'dx'  recommendatory  ^md  not  p  :-'  ively  e, 
gaging  that  government  vrill  comply  v.ith  what  I  advise,  ex- 
cept as  to  furnishing  them  with  mechanics  for  which  they 
\  'Ore  t'''  make  a  compensation.  I  hope  what  I  have  recom- 
mends to  the  Indians  may  not  be  thought  to  arrogate,  as 
exceeding  the  duty  of  an  Indian  agent.  I  should  li]'o  to  have 
the  sentiments  of  the  Depr,..tment  of  wrv  upon  tlie  subject 
^'^hicli  I  have  recommendL  •  to  the  Indians;  for  I  ^^ould  not 
by  any  means  have  the  thought  that  I  v.^ould  do  aiiything  con- 
trary to  the  sentiiients  of  government.  The  Indians  received 
(;  parently)  rny  advise  with  great  attention,  and  by  their 
re.  *y  was  well  plea.cd  that  their  f^^hers  the  Americans  would 
have  so  tender  •:  regard  for  them  as  to  assist  then]  in  en- 
deavoring to  civilize  them.  They  said  they  would  take  tlie 
subject  in'O  consideration  and  after  making  it  generally 
]rao\Mi  amc-ng  their  peoiple  the  vv'ould  probal;ly  by  n;  spring 
■  ive  an  answer;  and  v  ,  to  the  su'  '-^ct  of  receiving  n:  chanicb 
it  should  ;3e  considered  sei-arately. 

I  have  the  hoiior  to  be  very  respectfully  yonr  Obt.  St'r\i.. 

Til.  Posey 
The  Honble  The  Sec    tary  of  War 

City  of  Washing':   ^i 


A  Speech  Delivehed  by  GoveRx^joii  Posey  /igent  for  I;  diax 

A    FAIRS  TO  S:.VEN  HUNDRED  AND  SIXTY  I::DIANS  AT   FT. 

Harrison 
/I  .   /„,  ;  .    ,  22nd  Novr.  181 G 

Har.  P".  ,404-.; (;- 

My  CJiikh  n:  I  am  happy  to  meet  with  you  this  day  anc; 
to  have  tnis  opportu  ity  to  oi  ju  )ny  mirid  and  speak  to  yon. 
Unstop  your  ear  ,  Oi'en  your  eyes,  look,  b.ear  and  consider 
well  v.iiat  your  father  '^,  /eac terpen  is  goir.,  lo  say  to  you,  l!:t 
it  sink  d(  p  into  your  hearts,  and  if  >'0u  approve  of  my  ad- 
vice you  should  follovr  it,  but  you  ha\e  a  riglit  to  follow  it 
or  not  as  you  may  tliink  proper,  tho  I  must  request  you  to 
kcc]')  this  my  advice  in  your  memory  ar.d  tell  it  'o  your  cliil- 


740  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIO:  3 

d,reii    your  chijdi'o:--i's  children  and  let  it  be  handed  di wn  \o 
fut  re  genera^  ions  what  Weactonon  ncv:  say<  to  yor  : 

A/.'/  Red  Children:  Weas,  Kickapoos,  Potatwatomies,  Chiefs 
and  Warriors  and  whatever  other  bands  may  be  preyent,  a 
great  inany  of  you  are  collected  here  at  this  place,  look  up 
to  the  great  Spirit,  the  Father  and  creator  of  the  Heavens 
the  earth,  and  every  living  creature;  He  is  now  looking  dovni 
upon,  us;  He  knows  our  hearts  and  is  acquainted  witii  every 
thing  .hat  is  done  either  by  us  or-  in  any  way  wliatever.  If 
we  do  what  pleases  him  he  smile:  upon  us  and  •vill  rcvrard 
us  if  anything  (•  it  displeases  him  he  is  angry  and  will  punish. 
us  either  in  this  world  oi'  in  the  world  where  our  Spirit  go 
and  p}"  bably  in  both. 

My  Children:  'T'he  Great  Spirit  has  put  'is  lavrs  into  the 
hearts  of  all  his  children  of  whatever  complexion,  vrhether 
white,  Rv  1  0}-  Black;  of  whatever  nation  tongue  and  kindred, 
they  all  kno'^  -hen  they  do  right  and  when  tl'iey  do  wrong 
as  well  be  acceptable  to  youj'  fat.  ler  tlie  President  and  great 
council  of  the  nation. 

Mv  cjiildren:  Look  and  see  how  hap])y  many  of  the  people 
av'-  'lat  have  got  into  a  settled  state,  S;  the  Cherikees,  tlie 
Chi.kasaws,  Choctav>^s  and  some  of  tlie  Crorks,  tliey  live  liap]v..- 
and  are  increasing.  Why  not  follow  tlseir  example  and  be 
ha  'py  too?  They  have  th  ir  good  houses,  their  good  planta- 
tions, stock  of  every  kind  to  subsist  on,  and  a  great  deal  to 
sell  to  the  white  people.  Many  of  them  are  getting  ^-ery  rich. 
Do  ye  follovv^  their  examph^.  They  don't  steal  and  plunder 
the  v/hite  people  and  one  another.  Now  my  advice  to  you  is 
in  order  to  be  at  peace  and  friendslM])  with  tlie  \'\liite  people. 
and  vvith  each  oth(  '  that  you  do  nut  steal  and  ])lunde]-,  ar.d 
if  you  have  anything  that  some  of  your  bad  men  have  taken. 
deliver  it  u,>  that  the  right  o^\mer  m;  y  get  it  again.  We  have' 
some  bad  men  amoiig  us  as  well  as  you  have  but  we  stri^•o 
to  kc-ep  them  from  stealing,  plundering  and  treating  you  ill, 
and  if  they  have  an^'thing  belonging  to  you  it  must  be  re- 
stored to  you. 

My  ('kildren:  This  may  be  the  last  time  I  n.iy  ever  see 
you  but  if  the  great  Spirit  pleases  to  give  me  life  and  healtli. 
I  expect  to  s(-<  you  again  next  spring,  v.hen  you  expect  to  sec 
us  or  some  others  that  your  father  tl  P]-esident  will  send 
to  me^^t  you  upon  the  business  f <  .  vrliicn  we  were  sent  to  see 
you,  aud  have  a  tallv.    We  all  know  that  i"  is  ou    duty  to  lovo 


HA  -■>V'TQ.OM.        ATT.'''-"-.'  ^ /''"■><-.'      ^   "'^\    T   P^"rT~''''C  "^  '■ '• 

tlio  great  Spirit  aiul  keep  his  lav;s;  He  furin^Iics  us  with 
■very  good  ihini;- — with  Vviu.l  ^^'e  eat,  drink  and  v;ear — then 
we  ought  to  Io\e  him,  and  he  has  told  us  lo  k)ve  liini,  tc  l:eep 
his  jaws,  in  our  hearts,  to  love  on  anothei-  lovu  our  fatliers. 
mothers,  our  l)rothers  and  sisters  and  our  wives  and  clukli'trii. 
We  must  do  no  wrong  one  to  another;  we  nuist  be  in  peace 
Yvuth  c.il  men — not  kid,  not  steal  and  not  have  malHce  in  our 
]:earts  one  to  anotlier. 

Mu  Children:  Your  Fatlier  the  Presiderit,  the  great  Am^eri- 
can.  Council  wish  you  Vvell  and  wish  you  to  be  in  friendship 
and  at  peace  willi  the  American  peopk',  v  ith  one  arioiher  and 
vrith  r  I.  nations  of  people;  they  wish  you  to  oe  iiappy,  and 
would  a  sis;  you  if  you  would  strive  to  make  yourselves  luippy. 

My  C'tilld:  sn:  I  have  grown  old  in  tlic  service  of  my  coun- 
try-. I  have  s  ved  as  a  war  chief  in  time  of  w.  r  and  ha\c 
s-r\'ed  in  mc  '''  i>  ace.  I  have  >■  ai  and  expei'ic  ced  a  grca". 
deal  of  the  ti ansactions  bet  -een  man  and  man,  and  can  giN- 
you  good  advice.  The  time  lias  come  thr.t  men  are  '.visor, 
n  ore  enlirr  ened,  have  greater  expericns,  :-  arv..  knc  more  tlie 
great  spirit  than  formcj-ly. 

xl///  Children:  Your  father  ^e  President  and  '  'eat .-  leri- 
can  council  \v.sh  to  see  yow  happy  and  hear  thai  you  have  a 
desire  to  be  settled,  I  '^m  authorized  to  tell  you  and  my  advice 
to  iou  seeing  and  knu.  ing  (i.ltiio  you  possess  a  great  deal  of 
land)  youi'  subsistcince  by  hunting  has  dinrnishea  and  is  daily 
decreasi;  ',  tlie  wi^d  animals  by  which  you  used  to  be  sup- 
po  ed  ha\e  got  so  scarce  IJ  it  i  with  great  difficulty  (in 
ma.iy  parts  where  you  reside)  furnish  yourselves  with  nour- 
ishment— ^then  my  children  why  not  set  about  immediately 
to  alte  your  niude  of  life?  Settle  yourselves  in  villages  or 
otherwise,  ruse  s^ock  oC  every  land  particularly  cattle  ar  1 
hogs,  cultivate  th:;  earth,  raise  coi-n  and  othei'  kinds  of  iib- 
sistance,  build  houses,  and  learn  the  useful  arts;  have  your 
chudren  taught  to  read  and  write  and  to  love  the  Great  Spirit 
and  ser\"e  lii  i.  If  you  incline  tc-  follow  my  advice  ,.ou  mu;a 
give  me  infc.mation  as  soon  as  you  can^.  And  I  v.ill  give 
information  to  y<.  u-  father  the  Piwsidcnt  and  great  Council 
of  tie  Naiion,  who  I  have  no  doubt  v/ill  assist  you,  ihe>'  will 
s,  nd  trad  m;  n  to  shovi''  you  liow^  to  bulk  lious;.  ,  an.-,  make 
necessary  furniture,  to  make  plouglis,  axes,  hoes,  ant;  every 
kind  of  usef ull  toi : ;  you  will  have  men  sent  t  sliew  j'oii  liow 
to  cultivate  your  fields;  you  have  son      horses  that  may  be 


742  I^s    lAJA  IIISTORIt.AL  COLLECTIONS 

1  .;;  to  plough,  aiic;  niore  can.  be  I'urmV'  3c!;  jx>ii  will  hrivo 
oxc  ,  carts,  sled,  and  lia^ness  ol"  e\'ei'y  kind  u-'f^rull  for  you 
and  you  will  hnvQ  women  sent  to  teach  you''  ^voinen  how  to 
spin,  wea\e,  and  r-.ako  your  clothin^^',  to  make  a  beginnhig 
u.'.efuU  teols  and  •mplements  of  husbandry,  and  some  pro- 
vision will  be  sent  to  you. 

Now  my  Children:  Ali'io  a  g-'ca'  deal  may  be  given  to 
you,  you  I^now  that  all  tnesc  services  cannot  be  done  I'or 
nothing;  some  compensatioii  must  be  made  you  liavo  it  in 
your  power  to  make  such  kind  of  componsatiori  vrith  you, 
\  hen  you  expect,  to  have  the  Dclav,  'es  i-uid  M'.vmies  v/ith 
you.  But  ].\.  the  meantime  if  you  sliould  ii;^]:  ■  up  your  mijids 
upon  the  subjects  wLiclt  I  have  n  'iitioned  to  you,  you  must 
mak„  it  known  to  i  ic.  The  way  v/ill  always  be  open  to  me 
for  comi  iunication.  If  you  make  your  mind  k  ov/n  to  T  ajor 
[Jojm  T.]  Chun  who  commands  a>  Ft.  HariUon  to  Jud:  e  I>. 
Parke  or  ^Toseph  Barron  In"  ;  Interpreter  at  Vincenru-  it 
will  soon  find  me.  I  sha''  ue  either  at  Vin^  onncs  or  at  no 
^:rer!t  distance  irom  thence.  It  iiay  be  iiat  I  shaii  !?e  at  Ft. 
u  lai  :"ison  again  in  the  course  of  a  month  or  two  your  annuities 
v/ill  be  d(  ivercd  o  you  as  soon  as  the  coun  '  brc  ks  up, 
after  v  'lich  we  shall  part  for  t'  ^s  time,  and  novv""  I  pray  that 
the  great  Spirit  may  talco  you  into  his  Holy  keeping-,  ajid 
guide  you  unto  ;  11  truth  and  do  not  foi,,_-,et  v,  at  Weactonon 
has  said  to  you,  he  will  ilways  do  what  the  great  Spirit  may 
enable  hiin  to  do  for  your  good.  You  ha\^e  given  me  the 
name  of  Weactonon,  I  think  it  an  lionorab:  ?  name,  and  shah 
hand  it  down  to  my  Children.  I  nov/  shakr-  Tiands  with  you 
GaJTiclin  or  Madison;  L  Itle-Eyes  o]-  Wasidn;^  m,  Ston  eater, 
Jackson,  Little  Ot::  ,  Little  Ducks,  ?^Iegrolcge,  Yellow-L  avc! , 
and  the  rest  of  the  Villag;.  and  War  Chiefs. 

To  this  speech  several  of  the  chi  Ts  replied  and  was  wll 
pleased  saying  they  would  give  an  answer  on  or  before  next 
spring.  That  in  the  meantime  they  would  consult  their  re- 
spective 1  mds  and  ti'ibes  and  make  the  contents  of  tijc  spc: 'di 
known  gx  iierally  araorxg  them. 

I^OSWY  TO  SECRLTAKY  OP  WAR 

ViNCENNES  lOth  Deci-.  ISIG 

Yours  of  tlu  \[\\  Ocir.  I  I'c.  ivod  at  t'lis  place  early  in 
Novi'.     Agieeabi,    to  the  requisil'  -w  therei]!  co!!i:ained  and  in 


HARRISON:     jIJ^ISSAGES  AND  LET^'E^S        T-i:- 

, order  to  make  my  r..  -  vl  upon  tlie  subject  accurate  ujkI  -pro-)- 
erly  ex}  .inccl  upon  .i..'  dilierent  items  tlie  names  and  prol)- 
able  numbers  of  tlie  tribes  under  my  superintendency,  th. 
amo-int  of  the  annuities  paid  tbeid,  the  amount  of  presents 
other  V'-?,ii  provision  which  rjght  to  be  d'stribilted  ;  inong 
then:,  the  annual  expense  of  in-ovisions  issued  to  them,  and 
an  est'^nate  of  thie  authorized  .nd.  contirigent  exjicnses  of  my 
agency,  incUidirig  not  only  the  items  just  enumerated,  but 
also  my  pay  and  emoluments  and  tliose  of  the  interpreti  s 
an'"  other  persoiis  in  ^  ly  employment  as  agent. 

Wlien  I  received  yo  .a-  letter  I  v\-as  on  my  vay  to  treat  vitli 
the  adians  at  Ft.  Harrison,  I  had  not  documents  with  me. 
and  I  t'^iought  by  postpones  ant  of  the  report  to  you  I  could 
mal:  ■  it  much  i  ore  satisfactoiw  after  the  treaty.  When  the 
trcc";  y  broke  up  ai.d  I  returned  t^'.  t'  "s  place  I  immediatel\ 
set  about  to  mnko  'he  report  bv  there  were  documents  av 
Jeffersouville  '  t  v.  ore  necessan'  lo  be  oL'ained.  t  have  dis- 
patched av'  ex;  •(;.  which  I  expect  will  return  m  a  fow  days, 
but  not  in  ;i  a'  for  the  rep'  "t  to  go  by  the  return  of  next 
mail  vrhich  will  be  on  tha  12tl;  Inst,  tho.  the  report  could  be 
ready  to  Stud  >  H"  in  a  few  days  aii..r.  By  t'^e  next  r  :ccc:.ding 
ma  1  it  will  be  certainly  sent  on,  and  will  reach  you  the  first 
or  second  week  of  Jan;,-,  next. 

The  business  of  the  agency  I  find  increasing  very  much. 
The  salary  of  the  agency  as  annexed  to  tliis  office  of  Gov- 
ernor of  the  Territory  vv'as  S800,  this  su-ni  as  a  salary  for  tho 
agent  of  this  station  (Ft.  Hri-rison  an..'.,  its  dependencies)  is 
surely  v'ery  inadequate.  The  duties  of  the  agent  are  proljably 
equal  to  those  discharged  by  an}"  other  agent,  and  of  course 
the  sah'vy  ought  to  be  equal.  I  wish  the  Piosideiit  to  take 
this  subject  into  consideration,  a;  d  that  you  would  a  '  Mso  me 
what  I  ain  to  receive  as  my  salaiy  from  the  time  I  wer.t  out 
of  office  as  Go^■er::or  of  Indiana  Territory. 

I  have  the  hone  '  to  be  very  respectfully, 
Your  Obt.  Servt. 


Tn.  Posey 


Ho]ible.  Secretary  of  War 
City  of  W.vsiitng';  jn 


'"44  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIOKS 

Report  of  Harrison  Invest  .gation 

January  23,  3P-17 

Am.  Sta.  Pa.  Mil.  A/.  7,  cil? 

Mr.  Richard  M.  Johnson  made  tlio  followmg  repovt: 
T...J  select  committee,  to  whomx  was  referred  the  letter  and 
documents  from  the  acting-  Secretary'  of  War  on  tlie  subject 
of  General  Harrison's  leti:er,    (Dec.  20,  1815)    asli  lca^'e  to 
report : 

That  tliey  have  investigated  the  facts  involved  in  this  in- 
quiry bv-  the  examination,  of  docm  ■  ts,  and  a  gre;i';  v  unber 
of  the  m.ost  respectable  Vvitnosses  pcrsoually  acquainted  with 
the  transacticis  pon  v/hicli.  tlie  inquiry  originated;  aud  the 
con-  riittec  ■  e  unanimously  of  opinion  that  Genera.]  Harrison 
stands  abo\e  suspicion,  as  to  hi  having  lad  any  pecuniary 
or  imp  -per  connexion  v/ith  the  officers  of  the  commissariat 
foi-  the  supnly  of  tl;.:  r,orth western  army;  that  he  did  not 
wantonly  oj  iie.properly  interfere  vv'itli  the  rights  of  con- 
tra'tors,  and  that  he  was  in  his  measures  governed  by  a 
prop-r  zeal  diid  dcvoiion  to  the  public  interest.  The  connnit- 
tec  as^'  leave  to  be  discharged  from  the  fur  '•  coit  si  deration 
of  the  su'  -ct;  an(',  as  tlie  papers  refer  '■  pa^L  to  ..tc  conduct 
and  tra  ctions  of  the  contractors  of  the  northwestern  army, 
wl-ose  accounts  are  unsctled,  and  only  incidentally  involv  ■! 
in  this  inquiry,  that  the  papers  be  ti'.-irismitted  to  the  Depa  - 
me  t  of  War. 

CoxnmL'.nicated  to  the  House  of  Rci    es'jntati\'es. 

FaRRISOI-;   to     hlOTEAiJ 

NORTU  Benp,  14th  Nov.  1817 

CJioicaa  Mss.  JJ/,  L.-    Louit;  McrcaniUe  Lv. /«,•;/ 

Dear  c;i.i 

The  lapse  of  years  has  lut  obliterated  from  m.y  memory 
the  civilities  I  rec'  ivcd  from  you  on  my  several  visits  to  St. 
Louis.  T  wish  nevv'  to  add  to  tlie  oliigation  by  re(jue::tinr 
f'-r  tlie  be  .or  hereof  ]\.Ir.  Jnu.  L.  Watkius  auy  aid  ycu  nia\- 
have  in  your  power  to  ani"oi-d  him  in  the  prosecution  of  ';is 
view;  He  wishes  to  be  employed  as  a  Teaches-  of  yoiilh  be- 
ing v  ell  acquainted  with  the  Latin  aud  Gicolv  I/ni,',';uar;o  and 
the  "'    itlnnatics. 

He  lived  for  a  con.'.:der;ible  time  as  a  tutor  iu.  in  ■  lamib/ 


HARRJ;  ON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETi^ERS        7  5 

and  ]ias  since  superintend.  I  an  Academy  in  Shelijj  ville  Ivy. 
in  both  o.r  which  situations  has  given  j2;'reat  satisfaction.  Any 
civiHties  or  scrviC"S  you.  ma;  rend -r  him  will  be  acknov/I(?d^:ed 
by  me. 

Bo  pleased  ..>  present  e  in  the  most  resi-  'ctful  ternis  to 
Madame  Choteaii  to  yo^  •  brother  and  his  fa  jly  an.d  those 
of  McFom^   ad  and  Mr.  Gratiot. 

I  am  yr'b  with  gieat  respect  and  R(\<i'ard 

\VlLLIAAI   IT,   IlARETSON 

Aug.  CitOTEAU,  Esq. 

IlAKRlHON  TO   TlI'TON 

Nor  H  Bend  neai  Gleves  6th  Dec.  1883 

Tipton  Mss.  Ind.  StoJc  Lihrary 

Dear  General 

I  liave  had  your  remarks  on  the  i.'-  tides  whic.i  appe  .red 
in  the  Kenincky  intelligencer  repubi  >hed  in  the  Han- ^ ton 
hiiiUigincer  of  this  state  in  which  one  of  the  fortvis  was  pub- 
lislied  some  thne  last  summer.  Tvly  ov/n  replj'  will  come  oit 
next  Saturd:,.  I  thong'  it  best  to  piibhsh  omo  docurnenl.^- 
which  were  furnished  by  Wah'er  T;iyIor  &  ot'  ers,  when  those 
infamous  chai;i,-es  wliicli  tlie  writer  f,  the  Kentucky  Irlcl- 
ligenocr  has  revived  first  made  their  app  avance  in  print, 
and  that  Hiey  phould  be  .•  comp?nied  Vyiih  some  explanatory 
remarks  from  myself.  Th.is  vvould  have  been  unnecessary  if 
your  publication  had  been  under  your  proper  signature.  At 
least  it  would  have  been  so  as  fa]  as  my  \'i  :'ication  v/as  con- 
cerned. 

I  '  ;g  you  to  believe  thr-t  I  fee'  tiie  warmest  gra.itudo  for 
the  kind  feeling-  you  exprer.s  for  me  in  the  conclusion  of  your 
piece.  Indeed  it  has  been  a  souicc  of  the  greatest  gratifica- 
tic  i  to  me  amidst  the  per  -ecutions  I  have  suffered  thnl  I  hav.-^ 
rarely  faih.  J  to  fmd  a  friend  when  ever  I  meet  witii  im-  one 
w-K)  hi;  served  under  ivy  command  or  with  me  ui)dor  the 
CO;,  nai..!  ol;  others.  A;,  instance  of  tbe  latter  occur/cd  tlii. 
day.  A  man  wh  ■  now  ]cr;ides  in  Indiana  &  who  served  with 
me  cix  years  as  :.  Corpora)  iri  the  first  Ti.  S.  Reg.  Infy.  under 
GenoT'  .  St.  ChiM'  &  Wayne,  r.-dled  on  me.  The  moment  I 
laid  my  eyes  on  irim  I  kficw  liim  as  i  lO  person  wlio  ai  the- 
instant  he  v/as  about  t(.)  bo  ex'  -'uted  I  hai    the  happiness  to 

f.O— 22CCi 


7-16  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

,stop  the  i)roccc'(l)i)i:,s  hy  Jiaiuling-  to  Iho  ofncvr  of  ilie  day 
pardon  fyom  the  commanding  general.  He  v/as  then  (17^.' i; 
a  vox,  Innidsome  young  man  oi  22.  His  criine  was  tluit  of 
having  f  i'erv  d  his  guard  (v/hich  lie  commai)ded  to  take  care 
of  the  c.-.itle  'l  the  a-cray)  to  kill  oiie  of  tliem.  Ho  was  pr;- 
donc''  from  tiie  yalhintry  he  had  displaied  in  the  ac-  .i  nt 
the  rapids  of  the  ]\iiami  of  the  lake  a  few  v\-eeks  beir>  Oi  in 
wliich  he  had  received  a  flesii  wound,  Ne.ver  did  I  see  a  n:?.ri 
brave  death  with  mor  fortitude.  Until  tlie  ])  ^rdon  was  an- 
nounced his  countenance  was  marked  b}'  a  ^;u^  n  indigiiaiioi; 
which  he  felt  as  he  informed  me  f}'om  tlio  ignominiou  ■' :..ll" 
which  had  beeii  assigned  to  him.  When  his  ;irnis  \'.'ere  Joos- 
oncd  &  the  rope  removed  from  his  neck  he  leaned  out  of  th*; 
w^aggon  in  \'h.ich  he  had  been  placed,  took  a  youn  gii"'!  (who 
was  hio  mistress  &  who  had  stood  weeping  by  the  side  of  .be 
waggon)  in  his  arms  kissed  her  &.  folding  his  arms  reg^rcvd 
the  ]au::hter  which  he  cij'cumstances  produced  &  the  filin 
off  of  the  /umv  (wliich  had  bee;,  turned  out  on  tlie  occasion' 
with  equal  in-ifrerence.  I  believe  i'  w^a  proved  on  h^s  tria' 
that  ^^e  was  absent  from  his  guard  wiien  they  killed  tlic  animal 
b:'t  that  covdd  not  be  admitted  as  any  -.xtenuation  of  t'.; 
crime  by  the  Court- j^^artud.  Tliis  mart  wlioso  nai  e  is  Jam 
Redding  came  to  g.  from  me  a  certificate  of  his  servic '. 
Having  liea.  d  of  the  j^.;.  obability  of  the  soldiers  of  'hese  e?  Siv 
wars  being  placed  upon  ihe  pension  list.  It  app^:ar3  to  iri? 
that  sucli  ought  to  be  tise  case.  The  troops  who  served  wiT: 
]ia"  '^r,  St,  CTur  &,  Wayne  unde;;  svent  excessive  Jiardship? 
&  received  a  very  small  compensation.  'The  privates  vre:. e 
allowed  only  $3  dollars  ."Cr  r  ontli.  For  a  year  an  hal,'  I  w; 
T^nsign  on  the  pfiy  of  f-^lS  per  mon  h  &  two  rations  and  altbo 
I  fared  mise  ibly  so  high  was  e\A'ry  nec(^:-sar>'  that  I  coul'l 
not  live  upon  it  &  procu'  e  proper  Regim-  Tals.  WHien  I  be- 
came the  Aide-  •^-Camp  of.  the  Commanding  General  I  ]■-- 
cived  the  pay  c-:  emolumimts  of  a  Major  of  the  hue  \  sich 
was  $6';  r  '  4  rations  &  $1/.  for  forage  for  month  ]jui  ev'%1 
this  was  ]■.  ^'oly  sufr'Tent  to  vCep  me  in  cha'  iug,  hoses,  T 
equipments.  I  was  ob^ligcd  i  keep  t\vo  horses  &■  sucli  r  we.  :■ 
fit  for  an  aid  u:  cainp  cou  d  not  [)e  obinincd  bn-  lc>s  th. 
from  $1B9  to  $250.  I  say  fit  for  .•,■.  aid  do  cariVj.',  bee:  vis 
none  but  those  of  gre  .i  ^•'  o/igih,  a'  i!\^iiy  &.  flectnoss  will  s-: 
swoj-  for  tliat  service.         le  deliveiv'  of  an  order  a  jitmi.  : 


HAlaUSON:     MES^  \GES  AND  LETTEKS        747 

soo]}or  or  later  might  bo  proclut  vo  of  mc.  t  hqtIoiw.  conso- 
qucncc:-;.  1  know  indcicd  two  instaiicej-  in  \\liich  tlic  li-.  os  oi" 
0ilicei';s  bCcU-iiig  important  order,-.:,  v/ero  pi'esoi'VGd  by  lie  llecl- 
ness  and  acti\  ity  of  tticir  Iiorsc::;.  At  th".  seigc  of  I'^rt  r/Ieigs 
on  the  cventiiil  5ih  oi'  i\iay,  1  hiad  .'  it  the  squadron  ■.■'i 
dra^-oons  under  th.e  command  of  Cc.o.  Bail  to  cover  the  land- 
ing of  Gen.  Clay's  troops  above  tiie  fort.  Seeing-  with  my 
(flass  that  Ball  (in  the  plain  on  the  Ri.ver)  was  al>out  to  bo 
attacked  from  the  high  ground^  ^vithiii  rifle  distance,  by  a 
body  of  Indians  (my  aid  de  camp  being  at  that  moment  other- 
V7ise  (  iployed)  I  sent  Quarter  I'-Taster  Euboj  to  direct  Ball 
to  aoCcad  the  hill  &  drive  off  the  Indians  whc  .;  pos^^ion  was 
on  tlie  flank  of  the  r(  ito  t.;f  Clay's  troops  to  the  F  '  Eu- 
banks  I'oute  was  also  a'ong  that  plain  which  C'  posed  him 
likewise  to  the  fir^  of  the  Indians.  To  give  him  every  pos- 
."■iblc  chance  I  mounted  him  on  one  of  my  ovv'n  horses.  As 
1  anticipated,  the  Indian,,  began  t  fire  on  h' .i  before  he  g-t 
one  fourth  ]>art  of  the  way  but  being  under  full  speed  he  was 
not  hit,  TJ,.  re  ran  a  ditch  through  the  pi:. in  which  had  be^ 
dug  to  drain  r  pond.  Unluckily,  Eubanlv  came  to  tlu  pari: 
which,  was  Y:'/y'  and  deepest.  He  a'  ipled  .)  ma!  •  the 
le  p  but  the  horse  frightc::ed  at  the  yenov/  clay  b:inl-:  of  the 
o;  posite  side  suddenly  vrheeled  &  ran  off.  E.  hv.wcver  stoped 
Si  t.urned  him  &  giving  him  the  whip  &  spur  again  lirought 
'  im  up  &  obliged  him  to  take  the  leap,  a  mou:  trous  lea"  it 
^,as. 

The  xndiau:  were  all  the  while  firing  at  him  but  so  ex- 
tremely rapid  was  his  ino\:''mcnt  '^  th  Indians  being  mucli 
above  him  he  xaped  unhurt.  Tlse  otiier  instance  to  wliich 
I  :icfe]red  occiirred  to  myself  at  the  Battle  of  tfie  Rapids  of 
the  Miami  (not  ]\'"aumee)  of  the  lake.  Whilst  tlie  advanced 
light  troops  were  engaged  with  the  Indians  &,  the  infantry 
0:  1 'le  line  were  fonning  G  iL  Wayne  sent  me  with  nn  order 
to  the  di'  'Toons  on  the  ri:_,:it  to  charge  for  the  pur]  ,se  of 
chccki  f'  ;c  advance  of  the  enemy  ujitil  the  lino  was  forme^'. 
As  the  nearest  way,  I  took  the  diagonal  lir,;:  in  front  ■  f  the 
I;ifantr--.  When  I  reached  the  point  opposite  the  riglit  bat- 
talion of  the  1st  sub  legion  they  were  eng.'iged  vriih  the  In- 
dians who  had  driven  in  the  light  troops:  \vhich  covered  th.^ 
part  of  the  line.  I  was  thus  exposed  to  -h^-  hrc  of  both  bit 
my  gpllant    teed  Viore  nif  oirward  \vith  siu  i  ra,:'  Miy  that  I 


718  INDIANA   HISTORK^AL  COI.LECTJOXt 

e^;cal)ed  uiiliuj-L.  W  1  ['atiguo  you  with  these  6  tails,  so  uniii- 
tercstiiig'  to  ail  biit  ihoso  wlio  v;ere  coiicoi  ntxl  in  thern  you 
mil  i:  attribute  il  to  'ny  having  <  :un:ht  something  of  the  o-ir- 
rul.ity  if  yonr  constituent  old  Heading.  j\Iy  j^iincipal  oijjo^t 
in  wiiting  t^  is  letter  is  to  enqiii)'e  whether  you  Ivriovr  any 
thing  of  a  Delaware  chief  called  N^icoming  who  vva.-  with  rne 
at  the  battle  of  the  T"i  mes  c^:  aii  other  c  lied  Little  Boa-^-r 
of  the  same  tribe,  The  latter  was  the  person  (tlicn  a  lad  of 
18  years  old)  who  saved  my  life  by  killing  the  Indian  wlio 
was  sent  by  the  beligcrent  Indians  to  assassi-'-^ate  me  v.-hc'i 
I  was  \  '[h  the  :rmy  at  Sen  ;c;.  on  tiie  Sandus'.y.  ;-Iy  ob:t-cl 
in  enquiring"  after  these  meni  is  to  g-^o  them  .o  go  with  v\-} 
on  ;n  expedition  I  meditate  up  the  Missouri  on  to  the  fr;;.- 
tiers  o;'  Mexico.  Notvv^ith standing  the  gj'eat  sacrifice  of  pro;> 
erty  I  have  made  to  pay  my  own  del't  &  those  for  wliich  I 
was  bour  ]  as  securitj^  I  still  owe  about  ??12''0O  the  g.ei  .v'r 
pai't  as  endorser  fo]-  Thomson  Ncbv  of  Cijicinnali  who  is 
quite  :  le  to  pay  it  if  he  '^ad  the  inch  la' ion  to  do  it.  I  have 
been  ;  'king  every  exertion  in  )!iy  power  to  make  my  ag  i- 
cultu  al  pursuits  productive  enough  to  pay  my  current  ex- 
penses as  well  as  the  interest  of  ivy  debts  &  a  ^  .idual  i:- 
du.  "on  of  the  capital.  I  hav;  not  yet  succeeded.  I  '  r.  ?, 
however  a  project  in  progress  hich  n^ay  pi  event  the  ne^es- 
sh.  of  recurring  to  the  scheme  above  mentioned.  T  am  pro- 
paring  an  ajiparatus  foi'  '  '  n  drying  corn  in  the  manner  prac- 
ticed at  the  Brandywine  mills.  If  it  succeeds  as  I  Q^-ncci, 
I  can  pu.t  my  corn  in  a  state  either  ground  or  unground  l-; 
be  transpoi  t.  d  to  the  dist-  nt  markets  wi^'hout  risk  of  spoiling 
&;  at  considerable  profit.  If  it  de^^s  not  succeed  I  can  have 
recourse  to  the  other  p  oject.  Bat  as  such  an  undent  king 
must  be  commenced  in  May  or  June  it  is  necessary  lo  tak-.. 
some  of  the  steps  necessary  to  its  success  in  the  course  fji 
this  winter.  Two  Indians  such  as  I  kno  v  Nicomi;ig  »!i  t'n? 
Beaver  to  be  may  be  of  great  service  to  me  on  an  expediti-  .. 
of  the  kind  T  contemplate.  You  will  say  perhaps  tl:at  s  h 
an  enterprise  -s  nol  suitable  to  my  advanced  ag^  If  :  y 
heali  .  shoi.ld  continue  until  the  f.jirii^g  as  good  as  u  novr  is 
I  would  have  v-  hesitation  in  under !aking  it.  My  co-  -tii.;- 
tio''  seems  suitvd  to  exposure  &  liardsliip.  But  ;\i.  an;-.-  rai'..- 
it  my  corn  dr\  ;ng  scheme  fails  1  shall  have  no  aUt-.i^:  ti^  :■. 
The  Bank  U.  S.  Vvdiich  is  my  c  redilor  for  all  of  the  [iilegib-  ] 
debt  must  soon  \:ind  up  its  cnK-eiiis.     I  have  rcW  so  )nuch 


Hi\RiaSON:     ME^^SACP^^S  AND  LETTERS        710 

of  my  property  tluit  kIigiiIcI  I  be  obliged  to  sell  a.v;  much  as 
would  clear  mo  of  debt  1  should  be  left  without  the  means 
of  suppc  ting  the  large  family  o}*  inore  propc.'~-ly  families 
which  ai-e  dependent  upon  me,  VaiT  js  other  scliejpes  ha\'(^ 
been  thought  of,  ojiamijied  &  aljadoned.  It  v.'ould  rcquii'e  a 
great  deal  of  time  to  qualify  me  for  the  bar  or  for  the  prac- 
tice of  Physic  altho  I  was  a  student  of  the  latter  for  neai'ly 
two  years  before  I  entered  the  ainiy.  I  never  could  succeed 
in  the  mercantile  business  even  if  I  had  capital  to  commence 
it.  Such  pursuits  are  neither  conr.eriial  to  my  iiature  or  tl; 
iiabits  r  my  life.  I  might  take  one  of  the  1  ;g  Hotels  n 
Cincinnal'  but  the  same  objections  oppose  it,  \.'\ih  the  addi- 
tional or  of  the  burden  it  v/ould  inij^c  e  upon  my  "amily. 
To  the  hi;  ting  &.  trapping  expeditioji  no  objection  can  be 
made  but  the  on  bovc  sug  ^sted  viz  personal  hardships  & 
personal  hazard.  hose  I  was  never  accustomed  to  regard 
wher  I  vas  in  tlie  sei'vice  of  rny  countiy  neither  should  they 
form  an  obstacle  to  an  enterprise  having  foi*  its  object  the 
adv.miage  of  my  family. 

I  h  :ve  heard  fiom  :-  y  son  Benjamin  within  a  few  ('.ays. 
He  was  then  on  ihe  Big  Horn  I  .ver  and  was  concluding  a 
small  trapping  ex];edition  farther  west  on  his  owti  account. 

I  send  you  '^cIosg  '  th  -amilton  paper  containing  the 
"Voiunte.. .' "  &  the  Editors  remarks  on  the  piiblications  o^  the 
Kentucky  I   teUigettcer. 

F  Gsent  my  re  pects  to  my  frier  d  Hendricks. 
I  am  D*.ar  General 

Very  Sincerely  yr  friend 

W.  H.  Hi,    .isa 

P.  S.  A  nephew  of  mine  will  be  in  Washington  this  vrinter 
0'\  sor,  .'  -.usiness  with  Congress,  lie  is  from  tlie  county  in 
Va  with  Gov.  Tyh^  •.  1  have  enclosed  i  line  of  introduction 
to  hi'  ..  He  is  a  highly  respectable  &.  .viniable  man.  Ciov.  T 
will  info •  .1  you  of  his  vrrival,  I  enclose  you 
Honb-e.  (;en.  Joi-IN  Xm-xON 

Hal  •'  iON  TO  TiproN 
'   ■  ■'   ■        "'  NORTJi  Bkn;' 2nd  May  18o. 

iiEAR  GENi^RAL 

Your  le'ter  enclo;  'ng  the  article  rom  the  Mechanic  reached 
me  in  duv'  time.     It  iVun;'  m<"  iri  bad  he.  1th,  in  bad  spirit  &. 


750  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLI.ECTJON.- 

,  feeling  more  like  a  iiiisa  ithi-opo  tluui  I  have  evrr  done  in 
my  life  before,  &  tJierefore  tho  mr  "gnant  altack  of  "iii<:' 
friend  to  truth"  did  not  make  the  imiiressiun  U;;oii  ::ie  whi:-h 
it  wouli,.  have  done  at  another  time.  I  still  however  thc^lA 
I  might  ansver  it  &  in  tiie  mean  tinic  determined  to  v.-rite 
to  three  of  the  ge  ilemen  who  v.-er-  in  my  ftaff  at  the  battle 
of  the  Thames  to  see  'f  their  recolle.  lions  of  tlie  circum- 
stances agre*^-^  with  mi^  e. 

I  Iiave  rec       ed  ansvrers  from  all  &  all  coincide  v.  ith  me  in 
their  relation    f  the  facts  bearing  o.   the  case. 

Wlien  yoi!  le/.r  them  you  vrill  be  convinced  that  this  attacl: 
(altho  as  yo  say  it  is  a  nal'  ali..ir,)  is  as  malignant  a  or:o 
as  any  of  ti^ose  which  .  r  near  20  years  have  have  been 
made  upon  me.  I  sent  the  extract  ,\ou  forwarded  to  Colo. 
Todd  bat  if  I  recc  :-ct  arright  it  asserts  tliat  'X-(  iudr  Perry 
&  several  other  American  Officers  as  well  as  British  ofiiceis 
who  knew  Tec' '.athe  saw  and  recognized  his  body."  Now  I 
will  venture  my  L,-ad  if  Comdr  Perry  or  any  of  the  Amer:- 
can  fhcers  or  any  Am-rican  Sold  jr  vh  >  was  in  the  action 
had  ever  seen  Tecumth-.  in  tlieir  lives,  myself  only  excepted, 
I  ^  ouh'  make  the  sai  :  venture  that  no  c  ncer  of  the  Eriti:  .. 
.  '^:gidar  army  saw  the  body  ti  at  was  supposed  to  be  T — e. 
For  early  in  the  morning  after  the  action  I  sent  them  down. 
the  river  to  a  farm  house  &  only  tw;  of  them  were  permitted 
to  returr  again  to  our  camp  in  chi  rge  of  an  officer  to  s-  ar.  ■ 
for  some  baggag  •  whicli  had  been  plund'.  ed  from  them  by 
the  women  of  their  o\"i\  a  my.  I  was  persuaded  t(o  that 
no  e  of  them  heard  anj^  thing  certainly  about  the  death  of 
T-  -e  until  after  their  arrwal  at  Detroit  &  then  only  as  ;. 
rumour.  The  British  trciops  forniing  the  left  wing  of  thtj 
army  could  not  see  &.  could  not  possibly  know  what  passed 
bet'veen  the  Indians  &  those  who  were  opposed  to  the  i  in 
the  swamp  on  their  right.  I  have  said  that  no  British  o'lic-  : 
of  tneir  Regular  a  my  .ad  seen  &  recogiiized  the  body  ;>f 
Tecumthe  &  in  'his  I  am  supported  b.y  Colo.  Todd  wiio  wa- 
the  A  .?t.  Inspector  -enl.  of  the  army  (&  the  Senior  oi'ic  •; 
of  that  dcpart^nerit  .  .■esent)  &  to  Vvdiom  the  char,;  .:•  of  tl. 
Br'tish  dicers  were  comni:  led)  &  by  Coio.  OTallon  &  Major 
Chamb vTS  the  former  one  of  my  regular  Aids  de  Camp  i  I'm. 
latter  a  volunteer  Aid  de  camp.  But  neither  of  the  two 
former  ]ior  jayself  (unt^:  I  got  the  cnclosod  leltor  from  Ciiaoi- 
bers)  ever  heard  tbit  '  j  had  taltcn  Colo  Ba'^y  a  i^.Ie.cht,  of 


HARRISON;     MESSAGES  AND  LETTLRS         751 

Sandwich  mA  a  Militia  C^^lonel  to  see  tlio  bociy.  The  cau^^: 
of  V  not  havhij;  been  mentionGd  to  m<;  by  Clianibe:  s  is  state*"' 
in  liis  letter. 

In  the  morning  ai'tei'  the  action  I  ijidcrfit(  kI  that  a  C~n- 
adian  ho  had  beci  cpntiircd  in  the  i-etreat  had  asserted  that 
T — G  was  killed  I  \v(  o  see  this  man  &  he  told  n.;.'  -iiat  he 
had  ,-ec  :  Tecunithc  wounded  mortally  &  that  the  Indians  had 
wonndea  him.  If  I  am  not  mistalvcn  this  man  (the  Canadian) 
died  of  a  wound  he  had  received.  Another  Canadian  in- 
formed O'F  Hon  that  he  w.s  told  on  the  retreat  that  T— e 
v/as  killed.  He -said  he  would  easily  recogiize  T — e  &  I  di- 
rected CT  to  take  (he  man  &  examine  the  '  odies  which  were 
left  on  the  ground.  He  reported  to  me  thiit  tlie  man.  recog- 
nized a  body  as  T — e  &  declared  that  an  other  bod:,-  ^v}:icb  h\y 
near  it  wrs  tne  Prophets.  But  that  body  had  two  eyes.  The 
I  opliet  w;,-  kno'wn  to  have  but  one  &,  the  Ca^adi-ln  ackno^vl- 
edy-T;  ■  '  was  m^^takon.  Toward  the  evening"  of  that  day 
I  took  ;i;mGi'.  Perry  &  several  othee  officers  &  went  a  ex- 
amine <.ie  '  edy  which  had  been  thi;  designated  as  — e.  I 
found  it  in  uie  situati  described  by  CI  imbers  &  vas  very 
much  m-jriined  &  ii'r='  led.  I  was  certain  tlu:  I  had  seen 
the  p:  rson  ijefore  bui.  ..  could  not  delermiijc  whether  it  was 
T — e  or  a  Potawalimi  Chief  who  had  always  been  ■  ith  hhn 
when  ever  1  had  seen  him. 

Th';  face  was  much  swd'en  &  it  appeared  to  have  Imd  a 
stre  '  witii  a  Tonnaw:  or  sometliing  els.  over  the  top  of 
t  ie  nead.  O'Fallon  says  that  he  h  \d  on  a  cotton  huiUnig 
siiirt  vchen  he  ;  w  liim.  I  think  nowever  the  body  was  either 
naked  or  the  s./irt  v/as  roliod  up  above  the  breast  whc.  I 
saw  it.  The  British  writer  says  thn'  he  v/a.  ''disting^'.h'iud 
by  wearing  a  leiither  shirt"  now  altlio  you  vv'cre  n  iny  hundr;'d 
:  dies  from  the  Thames  at  the  time  yet  from  your  knov>ded.  e 
of  the  predv  ictioii  of  the  N.  A.  Indians  for  thiit  article  of 
dress  you  v/ould  no  doubt  give  it  as  your  opinion  thid  y'vA  Oi 
tlv-  1800  or  2,000  Indians  who  were  in  the  action  (or  n  er 
it  ■'!'  Nine  tc  (lis  of  the  wlsole  numbc}-  did  n  ;.  lire  a  gan) 
there  must  haee  been  some  hundicds  who  Were  thus  "d'  - 
tinguished"  greatly'  vexed  &  mortiaed  at  the  nuit;;dati(m  (jf 
the  body  I  would  not  suffer  any  persfin  vvdio  liad  b^on  v.t- 
t'  .:  cd  {■■:■  the  British;  iinvy  to  be  called  to  ■■'XaivMne  it  c:.  was 
desirous  inat  it  should  be  attrib  ted  to  our  Indians  who  v,-ouid 
I  \a(.'\v  suii'er  no  loss  of  honour  I>y  it.     fjut  yei  1  veas  morally 


752  INDIAVA  HISTOiaCAL  COLLECTIONS 

'  cijriD^n  that  tiioy  (oi,--  Indians)  i  s  n(;.  co]umitted  i..  I  1- 
the  c  my  eiilu-  ■  that  E—g  or  eariy  th(3  next  monnn^r  ^  py,,.. 
cccded  to  Detroit  ^vith  Comdr.  Perry  to  nako  arraiig-eincnt-. 
for  an  cxpcditi.-^n  to  the  upper  lances.  I  prepared  vny  officia.l 
dispatch  on  my  arrival  '  ..t  as  the  de.'th  of  Tccnnthe  slil^ 
remahied  i;,  a  great  d^'gree  m-  tain  1  did  not  inention  i:. 
I  was  hov>-  ever  morally  certai-.  tliat  he  was  killed  but  as 
one  account  siatos  hi'  f)oing  wounded  &  taken  off  I  was  un- 
willing to  ru  tlic  rislc  of  having  my  report  contradictcl  hy 
tlu:  ''  est  evidence  viz.  that  of  his  presenting  himself  alive  to 
his  [illeg'ble]  Provost.  My  dispatch  was  submitted  to  Ge  ;■. 
Shelby  for  his  cori'ection  if  there  v  as  any  error.  Lie  made 
none  &  declared  that  .  mple  justice,  w;  s  done  to  all  oiicerned. 
If  I  had  mentioned  tlie  probability  of  T — e's  d('ath  ,  could  .;'-;i 
have  with  any  ort  of  justice  attributed  it  to  any  individuai 
n-jr  indeed  c  ml,:  I  have  deta-m]ued  t)  -  . 70/7)5  by  whi^di  it 
had  been  ^ne.  From  ,y  ikci>  inforr  \  inn  I  should  ha- 
attributed  it  to  the  Infantry,  because  I  iiew  tl^at  they  hi 
encountered  the  LdiaL  neav  L-  the  spot.  As  1  found  thni 
hotly  engaged  wiLi  the  India  when  I  repaired  fi'om  th 
i.ght  to  the  left  of  ou-_  line,  ii  war:  not  r  \y  inte.  tir.^i  llr 
Johnson's  Corps  should  crvjv.3  [n  contact  N.-ith  the  Indii  -  n; 
did  I  k-.ow  until  I  saw  ^  sta  aent  in  McAtfee's  his;  y  •  ■■ 
what  exien-  it  Lad  done  so.  ]  knew  indeed  that  Colo.  J — i. 
had  been  Wv  mded  by  Ind  us  f;T  he  told  me  so  i,  ad^ied  t]i:.t 
he  Jiad  killed  uro  of  them,  when  I  visitted  him  shoj'tly  aftc]' 
the  action.  I  have  b'^en  c  I'cavouring  to  recollect  vrhc]i  ii 
was  tiiat  I  nrst  iiea.  J  that  it  was  supposed  tliatT — 0  v/a-  killed 
by  Colo.  Johnson.  I  am  satisfied  that  it  v..  s  not  until  ni  - 
return  to  Ohio  in  the  Febry.  foil  ving  &  I  believe  not  until 
some  time  in  the  sprin;..  CiiambL:.,-  (v.dio  went  immediately 
heme  after  the  action)  says  that  he  is  satisfied  that  he  did 
not  hear  it  for  several  months  &  so  say  both  Todd  &.  O'FaLon. 
The  latter  say:-  that  "when  he  I'oturned  to  Ky  ait';^r  the  v,-a:' 
w.  s  ovt  he  ^■.  as  asked  this  question  "whether  if  Colo.  Joli;  - 
son  did  kill  an  Indian  there  ■  as  ;iol  tnorc  pro'  abiliry  t'at 
it  was  T — e  than  any  otbc:.  And  he  avoA\'od  aiiirmativcl,.  " 
Now  this  is  precisely  the  ground  th.;t  I  always  took,  '^"^hoii 
evertV  '  circumstance  was  mentioned  in  my  pr(  ;;v'nco  I  aLvnys 
referred  to  tlie  fact  that  CoL^  Ji  had  info/med  mn  i.;nnc- 
diately  after  r!!p  action  that  he  had  kiUed  an  Indian  &  b'^foro 
lie  couLi  ha\     heard  that  '.  — -e  was  .hilk:d  -&  ha\'i  —  li-'ard  .1  .i;:"; 


HAKPJSON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        7r>:l 

good  an  ovlty  '  ni  T — e  had  said  to  Genl.  P}-oc1o>"  a  lev,'  day.'-"; 
before  at  Chatham  Creel;  that  he  was  determined  to  coiiqiier 
or  die.  (His  expression  Avas  "jiere  Genl.  liaiiison  or  I  shall 
lay  'Ur  incs")  I  coiicluded  that  it  Wi-  most  prfibable  that 
seeing  fj'om  the  position  of  Colo.  Jn  that  he  was  the  Comch*. 
of  the  party  whicli  was  about  to  -^ssail  him  T — e  had  singic^.d 
liim  out  rushed  r.pon  him  ci  feV  in  the  contest  This  opiv;!on 
i  have  alwaj's  expressed.  The  object  of  tlie  autlior  of  the 
"friend  to  truth"  is  to  hx  upon  nie  the  crim?  of  having  with- 
iield  the  informatic  of  ih"  death  o^  Tecum  the  from  cnmit\' 
to  or  jealc'  ;y  to  Colo.  J — n.  Far  froin  feeling  uny  enmity 
toward  him  T  was  upon  the  most  intin- •.te  terms  of  friend- 
shi,,  v/ith  him.  Theie  v/as  not  indeed  an  individual  in  the 
army  for  whom  '  felt  warmer  regard.  And  as  to  je;  ^oiis}' 
in  the  name  of  ;"'ommun  sense  of  Vv'hat  could  I  be  jealous? 
Of  his  br.  'ery?  No  becan.ae  I  have-  d.one  him  in  that  r-  spect 
ample  justice.  None  but  Coij.  Daviess'  fi.i'.nds  &.  this  Knn^  e 
&  fool  vdio  dares  to  assume  the  garb  oi  '"ruth"  would  ever 
have  tiu  Li^.ht  ^f  the  Commdr.  in  chief  of  an  army  ;eing 
jealous  of  the  gal'  ni^y  of  a  "'elc  officer,  lut  whatever  might 
have  ■  '']!  my  fc.'Jngs  I  ce.  ainly  never  heard  it  suggcc  :-d 
that  •  0.  J — ns  ^vas  tiie  arm  by  which  T — e  came  toll  is  death 
until  e  mont^'S  after.     Indeed  I  am  certaiii  not  until  I 

had  r  ;ned  my  commission  in  the  army.  None  of  J-ns. 
corps  ;  ow  T-  -e  nordidT~-eorany  rf  his  Indians  kiiov/ John- 
son. Of  cou-'se  it  could  only  be  asserlained  that  -ih.  latter 
kilicv.  t-  0  former  by  an  investigation  &,  a  comparison  of  cir- 
cumstarices  &.  this  was  not  done  initil  iift.  r  the  campaign. 
The  British  officers  of  course  could  hav  Irnov/n  n^  hing  of 
the  matter  as  they  were  in  an  other  pait  of  the  field  &  had 
sufficient  occupation  in  the  --■ion  &  no  opportu7iity  of  making 
inquiries  af terv.    rd. 

Whatever  infoimation  in  relation  to  the  afifair  whi;  they 
gave  !;o  th  British  hi.':  orian  they  must  have  acquired  wirile 
tl  y  •.■/ere  prisoners  in  Kenty.  If  truth  really  was  the  o'  "::t 
of  the  ^--riter  Vvdio  made  tl]is  attack  Uii)on  me  ought  he  i  to 
ha^■v  b(,en  struc'  wiin  the  circumstances  that  none  ol  tlie 
Western  historian  of  the  war  nor  ;iny  oiie  else  in  the  \V',\ster]i 
Country  had  blamed  me  •'  r  not  menti;  dug  iAi^r  death  of 
Tecumthe.  ?"  less  than  tv*;  of  tlv  liistorys  of  Ih.e  Vv^ai-  were 
written  by  m;  .nbers  of  Johi'sons  ;o)'ps.  Ouic  by  one  or  Ins 
Captains    (McAlTee  now  our   :i^harge  des  affairs  at  Bogoa) 


751  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 

&  ihe  other  V)y  a  l\h\  Druwn  oi  N  w  York  who  sci'ved  as  a 
vcluntver  in  vbe  Reo;t.  &  yet  botli  nf  them  alt]i,o  the  ix\or::0. 
friends  of  Colo,  Johnso]i  sp  ak  of  my  wliole  ;.  oudra-t  Y\"it:: 
marked  approbation.  But  I  am  tired  of  this  subj.— t.  All 
my  friends  here  have  strongly  protested  agaijisfmy  ;ipp-"ar- 
ing  in  ;  rint  in  answer  to  this  vile  slanderer  vJiom  I  take 
to  be  ti":  san'  v^  v\  o  some  years  ago  sent  an  annonimons  article 
to  the  L  Jitor  of  the  Ne\\-  Yk.  Coaintl.  Advcrr.  in  which  it  was 
said  that  when  our  troops  got  neai  the  enemy  I  was  no  vrlitvo 
to  be  found  &  that  Col. .  J — n  made  all  the  arran<5ei  icnts  for 
the  action.  I  strongly  suspect  tliat  I  could  guovs  v;]  ^-  v/a- 
the  author  o:'  both.  I  must  enjoin  it  upon  you  my  dear  .Tcn. 
not  tj  pi:blish  this  lettv  r  nor  auuthing  that  is  in  i-  in  arj 
m''mier  or  sJia^  ?. 

i  have  been  obliged  to  abrndon  my  inten;  1  trip  to  the 
West.  In  Febiy,  I  was  prc^  iring  to  go  to  N  Orleans  to 
obtain  thi'orgh  the  assists' ce  of  a  vriued  friend  I  1  :\yq  thcv, 
thi-  -neans  of  ca'"]'ying  my  pr^ 'ect  Im  execution  wh  .  I  was 
arrested  b;-  a  violent  illness  m  the  effects  f  ■'  which  I  I  .^ve 
not  to  this  moment  rec.  vc  ed  &  to  my  astoni;  hmen'  &  great 
re^Tot  my  son  Bcnjamiji  returned  from  the  RcKky  JMcurtai:-  ■ 
soon  afte  .  In  his  trip  he  cont  iv.-l  to  squander  at  least 
$1,0.  0  in  a  maner  totally  unaccountable.  Since  I  c  mmcnced 
tb'o  letter  m;,  son  Scott  returned  from  N.  0.  On  his  w?: 
dc  n  he  lost  one  of  his  boats  &  no;  rly  the  whole  cargo.  Iz 
wa^;  sunk  by  the  falling  of  trees  &  it  \\-as  with  no  small  rik 
that  hin^  &  Benjamin  &,  two  r  hei's  that  w  -e  in  the  boil 
saved  their  li\-es..  Our  entire  loss  is  about  $'  00.  I  had  [il- 
legible] onlj^  $400  &  tj  Cc.rgo  v,\>uiu  have  >  old  readily  f^  v 
$1100.  In  my  <  dvanced  age  I  am  jiot  a  favorite  of  Forturn?, 
But  come  what  may,  neiL  er  to  licr  frowns  nor  tothepeltings 
&  persecutions  I  have  experience;!  cc  may  still  experience  fror.i 
those  from  whom  I  had  a  right  to  •'^^xpect  diffei-ent  treatmenl. 
v.'ill  make  me  succumb.  1  will,  i.  use  the  language  of  thx- 
Tennessr^  '7'oion«el,  endeavor  still  to  "go  ahead"  altho  in  n\ 
exertions  .;>  jo  so  like  the  boy  on  the  sleet  I  go  tvro  step- 
backv.  ard  for  one  Hiat  I  go  for\  "rd. 

Eat  amidst  all  my  dilliculties  1  have  a  con;  dation  in  bc- 
]■  ving  that  I  have  a  few  faith  "ul  friends  &  ihero  is  ru,  e 
amon,    t  them  whose   dsintei'estcd  ■dtachmenl.;  1  \alnc  more 

tha]i  yours 

/  cc'^pt  mv  b«:  -t  wi,>;:/  :^ 

W.  H.  iiAiirrsoK 


HARRTSON:     MESSAGES  A:^D  LET'.'u^    -         7"") 

P.  S.     Colo,       -eld  Ik's  just  -^viMtl-?!!  t-     ac  tliat  ho  jiiIctkIg 
to  aDswei-  ^'the  rricnd  of  truth"  &  tlv  I  i  :  wi'^  lo'v/ard  it  (■ 
you  to  be  inserted  in  the  Media  vie.     I  mention  ttiis  in  con- 
fidence.   He  will  anr^wcr  ef^\-'ctually. 

Return  me  Chamber's  lett-,!'. 

"R:   bb  Gcnb  Tipton 


Hatikison'to  CoivUliT"'':]i; 

Cl  jinnati  2Brd  Octr  1    '5 

La::sclle  M>-s.  lad.  Sluic  lAbnu'y 

C  ::ntlemen 

Wher  I  liad  th'^  Iionour  to  r'X:ei've  yo:ir  letter  of  the  17tu 
Ar  ist  last  inviti.  j  me  to  particJiiale  in  the  celebiatiun  of 
th  anniversiiry  of  th  bait  ^^  of  Tippc' anoe  on  tlr  spot  ■  liere 
it  Avas  fou^^ht  I  was  ai^prehen^dve  b:at  it  would  not  be  in  my 
povj.r  t  attend,  ardently  as  it  wa,  my  wish  to  do  so.  I  do 
t  '  od  however  to  (.'elay  my  an  ^ver  lor  some  time  in  the 
hop:  hat  something  might  occur  to  enable  me  to  g  b  m 
incli  jubons  by  ab ending  without  vi'^'  !;iiig  any  (  di^^atieiis  -t 
duty  in  relation  to  tl;.  ollico  I  hold  ihis  county.  I  am  ]••,.' 
ho \ 'ever  reluctantly  constrained  to  abandon  the  idea.  Ti:- 
CO  L't  v:f  which  I  am  clerk  is  'x\^s>j-  In  S'/osion  with  no  probabil 
it;  of  its  adjournment  until  after  the  day  of  the  celebration 
shall  hrvc  passeb.  All  thi;it  remains  therefore  is  to  oRer  you 
my  thanks  for  Wvo.  '  ;•  :jur  you  have  done  me  by  the  in\'it^iion. 
<fe  particularly  i'or  UiQ  m:  nner  in  wliJch  you  have  ^een  pleased 
to  s}:K-}ak  of  my  public  services. 

The  attendance  'vf  the  y  uth  oi   e  r  roun'^y  upon  siub  a 
celebration  on  the  spot  which  was  bie  seen    of  the  pati'"  lie 
devotion  which  it  is  the  object  to  hoiiour,  camiot  but  be  .     i- 
ductive  of  the  greatest  advanti'ge.    It  wdll  inspire  them  vm 
the  feeliiig  and  sentiments  v/hich  ann'   lated  Daviess  "i  Spc^ri- 
cor  Owen  Sz  Warrick  under  tlie  influence  of  v»'hich  th' y  aba.n 
donrd  their  fires"  les  tbfir  bi.oiness  <b  th^ir  families  to    .-jain- 
tair  the  l^onour  and  itit'-v-:  :.:t  ol"  th(b:'  country  ami(bd  peiils 
&   e   .:i;:ers   which    they    had    (;ea}iy    r();>ieon    &    A^hich    t!"icy 
determined  to  disregard.     Tli^-Jr  fall  &  all  the  atleivbnit  ci]~ 
cum  'lances  sufOciently  p^  a;;  that  'bis  was  their  dctei'i  bna 
tion. 

I  sec  sign'd  to  \-)\\v  lei  ei-  (R?ntlenn'i)  !ianies  irb    lately  con- 
n    ded  with  the  went  you  intend  to  ci'iebrate,     (    le  of  theiii 


75G  INDI/  [V A  H  3TJIUCAL  COI.LECTIONS 

pai  ncular'y,    vhitli  v:ill  ahviU's  be  associal    1  wi.  i  Iho  gio-y 
of     ■(•  cifhievGrncnt.    To  ihonQ  wIk)  are  thus  ;:i(.i-tted  the  rccc' 
leclioii  of  this  (•irciini^;taiicc  shoukl  constitute  nu  addiliojial 
mo'ive  ior  the  disdiarge  of  all  tlie  duties  wliie,    appeidahi  to 
the  /haraetev  of  the  pati'iot  &  citizen  soldier. 
I  am  Gcutleuien  witli    ■roat  Ilesiv-xt 
Your  Hum  S  rt 

W.  IL  liAnRiSf.o; 
Messrs  Spear  S.  Tipton 

STANLSLAI S  } jA sselle 

&■ 

Dani  l  Sparks 

Co))r,n.Uicc  for  the  cekhrailon  af 
the  battle  of  Tiirpccunoc 


INDEX 


(*Refers  to  footnotes) 


Abbott,  Robert,  578. 
Adair,   Maj.   John,   261;    Gen.,   564 
Adams,  Martin,  285;  Lt.,  288. 
Adams,    Capt.    Nathaniel,    6;    100; 

185;  Maj.,  261;   Adj.  Gen.,  414; 

424;  426;  467. 
Adams,  Will,  322. 
Adkison,  John,  286. 
Alexander,  Capt.,  260. 
Allison,  James,  285. 
Allen,  Gen.  James,  546;  564. 
Allen,  Col.  John,   108*;    109;    124; 

141;    170;    171;    314;    315;    319; 

320;    321;    340;    Maj.,   498. 
Allen,  Mo.<es,  285. 
Allen,  Col.  Wm.,  74. 
Amable,  Chevalier,  252;   618. 
Ammerson,  Albert,  323. 
Anderson,  Alexander,  286. 
Anderson,  Col.  James  M.,  179;  188; 

286. 
Anderson,  John,  588. 
Anderson,  Robert,  286. 
Anderson,    Col.    William    P.,    204; 

306;    452;    459;    473;    478;    494; 

496;   578. 
Andre,  Pierre,  15*;  376*;  510;  572; 

665;     667-668;     681;     689;     692; 

693;  to  Posev,  685-686. 
Andrew,  Capt,  281 ;  Col.,  207. 
Andrews,  Lt.  Col.  John,  367. 
Anthony,  Lt.  Joseph,  512. 
Apagona,  578. 
Armewas,  579. 

Armistice,  with  Indians,  577-579. 
Armstrong,  Ensign  Daniel  D.,  250. 
Armstrong,  George,  285. 
Armstrong,  Will,  322. 
Armstrong,  Gen.,  679;  685. 
Arnold,  Capt.  John,  59*. 
Atwater,  Reuben,  54*. 
Audrain,  James,  2,17;  289. 
Auglaize,  150. 
Avasho  Qui  Juk,  578. 

Baby,  Col.,  750. 

Bacon,  Capt,  167. 

Baen,  William  C,  2. 

Baillv,  Joseph,  643. 

Bain,  Capt.  Paterson,  257;  289. 

Baker,  Capt.  Daniel,  434. 


Maj., 

212 

255; 

256 

271; 

289 

436; 

439 

481; 

501 

Baker,  Ensign  Isaac,  to  Hariison, 

327;  to  Winchester,  371-375. 
Baker,  Maurice,  286. 
iJaldwin,  Daniel,  37. 
Baldwin,  John,  285. 
Ball,   James   V.,   137*; 

216;    248;    253;    254 

259;    260;    265;    270 

292;    304;    307;    370 

453;    466;    Col.,    471 

503;     506;     531;     546-547;     548 

549;  558. 
Ballard,  Capt  Bland  W.,  319;  321; 

329;  372. 
Banta,  Henry,  286. 
Barbee,  Col.  Joshua,  95;  143;  149; 

161;  239. 
Barbour,    Col.    Phillip,    88;    120*; 

121*;    to    Gibson,    130-131;    132; 

133;    193;    224;    232;    234;    448. 
Barbour,  Gov.  Virginia,  456. 
Barclay,  Capt.  Robert  H.,  544;  583; 

599. 
Barden,  Capt,  635. 
Barker,  Col.,  323. 
Barnes,  David,  282;  285. 
Barnes,  John,  286. 
Barnes,  Leonard,  20. 
Barr,  George,  323. 
Barron,  Joseph,  26;  192;  498;  510; 

663-664;  to  Posey,  666-667;  077; 

681;  725;  742. 
Bari-v,  Major  William  T.,  504. 
Bartholomew,  Col.  Joseph,  282-283 ; 

498;   648;  659;  685. 
Bartholomew,  John,  285. 
Bartlett,  John   C,   236;   245;   246: 

384*;  414;  426;  Major,  454;  456: 

467;  531. 
Barton,  Capt.,  4;  6-7. 
Basev,    Lt    Edward,    Q.    M.,    168; 

259;  263;  289. 
Basidon,  Joseph,  29;   712. 
Basset t  Bui-Avell,  29;  712. 
Batthis,  John,  15* ;  32. 
Baubee,  Col.,  371;  374. 
Baudy,  John,  280. 
Baum,  237. 
Baylor,  Lt.  Cyrus  Alexander,  260; 

290*  512. 
Bayne,  Edward,  582. 


(757) 


758 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Beadle,  Luther,  285. 

Beall,  Gen.  Reasin,  188*;  189;  204 

207;  215. 

Beam,  Capt,  279. 

Beam,  Michael,  285. 

Bean  Blossom  creek,  279 

Beasly,  Maj.  N.,  219;  8(37. 

Beaufait,  Louis,  578. 

Beck,  George,  to  Harrison,  S0-P>1* 

Beckes,  Parmenius,  15*;  Caut     ?,!■ 

32;  37;  284;  G94.         '        '    '       • 

Bcckley,  John,  323. 

Bedford,  Thomas,  260;   263 

Beems,  277. 

Belt,  Levin,  714-715. 

Bender,  Lt.,  94. 

Bcnnet,  John,  263. 

Benson,  Sergeant,  322. 

Bentley,  Major  Solomon,  367 

Bergin,  Isaac,  286. 

Bernet,  Thomas,  285. 

Bigger,  David,  286. 

Bigger,    James,    15*;    281-    Cant 

282;    283;    284;    376*;    572-    to 

Posey,  674;  675. 

Big  Knives,  60. 

Black,  407.  v 

Blackfish,  464. 

Blackford,  Isaac,  660;  061 

Blackhoof,  637. 

Blair,  John,  285. 

Blankenship,  Isaiah,  286 

Blankenship,  William,  286 

Blasdel,  Lt.  Enoch,  693. 

Bledsoe,  Jesse,  87*. 

^^^^soe,  Capt.  Richard,  319;   322- 
329,  >   '^•^^j 

Blondeau,  Maurice,  27. 

Blood,  Hosea,  6. 

Bloomington,  284.  "     ""*-. 

Blue  river,  72;  73;  133. 

Blythe,  James  E.,  327, 

Bodley.    Major    Thomas,    161-     to 
Harrison,  238-240;   249;   533 

Boilvm,  Nicholas,  271;  533 

Boone,  Daniel,  163*. 

Boone,  Capt,  Hiram,  277-278 

Boothes,  Harrison,  322. 

Boswell,  Col.  William  E.,  436-  442- 

Maj.  Gen.,  647;  624. 
Botts,  Ensign  John,  329. 
Boutcllier,  Francis,  236. 
Bowel,  Corporal  Basil,  284 
Bowen,  Dr.,  371;  372;  375-  46'? 
Bowles,  Ensign,  319.  ' 

Boyd,  John  P.,  17;  18;  49* 
Boyez,  692. 
Bradcn,  David,  263. 
Bradford,  diaries,  823. 
Bradford,  Capt.  William,  437-  439- 
447.  ' 

Bradshaw,  288. 


Bratton,  George,  285. 
Brcckcni'idgG,  Major  J.  C,  234. 
Breneman,  Corporal  Henry,  203 
Brenton,  Henry,  15*;   Capt.,  SIGK 
Brevort,  Capt.  Plenry  B.,  540 
Bridges,  John,  322. 
Bright  Horn,  247. 
Brinton,     Lt.    Henrv,    280.       (See 
Brenton.) 
;      Brock,  General,  to  Lord  Livcjpool, 
102-103;  208;  235. 
Brouillettc,    Michael,    24;    32-    38- 

677;  678;  697. 
Brov/n,  754. 
Brown,  Adj.,  436. 
Bro-WTi,  Beverly,  260;  263. 
Browm,  Capt.,  589. 
Brov.Ti,  Dr.,  374. 
BroA\m,  Ii-venne,  323. 
Brown,  James,  28;  180*;  467. 
Bi-own,  Joseph,  15*;  32. 
Brush,  Major  Henry,  168;  171;  Col., 

516. 
Brush,  Col,  Elijah,  874. 
Bryson,  Lt.  James  W.,  89*;  92;  221. 
Buck  creek,  95*. 
Buford,  Thomas,  92;  119;  J29-  140- 

Col.,  151;  160;  177. 
Buntin,  Lt.  Robert,  Jr.,  309;  381*; 

382. 
Buntin,  Robert,  49;  662. 
Burchstead,  H.,  6. 
Burnett,   Jacob,    709;    to   congress, 

713-714;  712. 
Burnette,  John  W.,  643. 
Burr  refugees,  34*. 
Burton,  Lt.  0.  G.,  to  Harrison,  2;  6. 
Buskirk,  Absalom,  276. 
Butler,  407. 
Butler,  Capt.,  289. 
Butler,  Capt,  James  R.,  255*;  257; 
471;    482;    491;    497;    502;    516. 
Butler,  Gen.  Richard, 234;  255*;  502 
Butler,    Capt.    Robert,    255*;    467; 
562;     Col.,    594;     632-G36;     620; 
707;  708. 
Butler,  Thomas,  159*. 
Butler,    Ensign    Williain    0„    319; 
327;  329. 

Cahokias,  671;  633. 

CaldAvell,   Ensigr,,  319;    Capt.,  627. 

Caldwell,  General  Samuel,  546-548;' 

564. 
Captain  Jonny,  247*. 
Campbell,    Lt.    James,    258;     Col 

299;  305;  313;  437;  469. 
Campbell,  Lt.   Col.  John   B.,  179*; 

211;  244;  247;  to  Harrison,  248-     ' 

249;    253-262;     252;    268;     271; 

287-289;     292;     304;     307;    356; 

370  391 ;  446. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS 


759 


Campbell,  Robert,  2G3. 

Cardwell,  Ensign  George,  329. 

Carnahan,  Thompson,  2G3. 

Carr,  John,  15*;  284;  376*. 

Cass,  Lewis,  2G8;  Col.,  380;  Briga 
dier  General,  414;  428;  451;  452 
454;  472;  485;  511;  531;  541 
546;  547;  548;  549;  558;  562 
to  Harrison,  566-567;  577;  578 
590;  596;  petition  from  Mich 
Terr.,  586-588;  610;  616;  617 
621;  623;  624;  631;  656;  707. 

Chaine,  Isodore,  54-55;  60;  61*. 

Chalfant,  Nathan,  280. 

Chambers,  Editor  Zanesville  Mes- 
senger, 139. 

Chambers,  Major  John,  512;  514; 
560*;  564;  760;  752;  to  Proctor, 
93-94. 

Chambers,  Joseph,  263. 

Chambers,  Lt.,  620. 

Chandonnae,  J.  Bts.,  578. 

Chappin,  175;  Col.,  597. 

Charley,  174 ;  578. 

Chauncey,  Commodore  Isaac,  595; 
605;  606. 

Chawkawbe,  578. 

Cheiner,  Lt,  323. 

Cheiner,  Alfred,  323. 

Cheiner,  Nathan,  323. 

Chepe,  578. 

Cherokees,  27;  740. 

Chess,  Isaac,  264. 

Chicago,  85;  86;  fall  of,  108;  111. 

Chickasaws,  740. 

Chiles,  Brigadier  General,  564, 

Chile,  Major  David,  546;  561. 

Chinn,  EnsigTi  Thomas,  819;  329. 

Chippewas,  50*-53;  56;  59;  555; 
574;  577;  579;  600;  036;  638; 
639;  640;  720.  ,        , 

Chittenden,  374.  '■ 

Choctaws,  740. 

Cholier,  Capt.  Coalman,  see  Collier. 

Choteau,  August,  744. 

Chunn,  Capt.  John  T.,  49;  309*; 
320;  360;  381*;  Maj.,  742. 

Clark,  Capt.,  216. 

Clark  County,  133. 

Clark,  Dr.,  127;  227. 

Clark,  General  George,  512. 

Clark,  Isaac,  285. 

Clark,  John,  285. 

Clark,  John  U.,  285. 

Clark,  Thomas,  47*. 

Clark,  Capt.  Thomas  A.,  205-296. 

Clark,  Gen.  William,  391;  602-603; 
610;  Gov.,  672;  731. 

Claus,  to  Brock,  61-62;  to  Loring, 
641-642. 

Clav,  Heni-v,  87;  98;  ISO*;  2;!G; 
467;  651. 


Clay,  Green,  135*  Brigadier  Gen- 
eral, 392;  423;  430*;  432;  436; 
444;  445;  447;  to  Harrison,  440- 
442;  473*;  477;  478;  480;  to 
Harrison,  474-475 ;  493-494 ;  496 ; 
to  Harrison,  499-500;  501;  506; 
508;  703;  747. 

Clermont  County,  indorses  Harri- 
son, 310-311. 

Clothing  for  Militia,  157-158. 

Colbert,  John,  286. 

Colbert,  Willis,  323. 

Coleman,  Wiatt,  286. 

Collier,  Capt.  Coalman,  319;  329. 

Collier,  Elijah,  286. 

Collins,  James,  285;  Capt.,  323. 

Collins,  Sergt.  William  E.  L.,  284. 

Combs,  Benjamin,  286. 

Comstock,  Lt,  320. 

Comstock,  Ensign  Lynden,  329. 

Conkey,  Capt,  462. 

Connor,  John,  43;  45;  48;  78;  186; 
189;  228;  528;  677;  164. 

Connor,  William,  18G;  228;  257; 
262;  Capt,  289;  578;  676-677. 

Conqee,  578. 

Conture,  Jean  Baptiste,  587. 

Cook,  Isaac,  6;  8-9. 

Cooper,  Isaiah,  285. 

Cooper,  Robert,  263. 

Cosncr,  John,  285. 

Cotgrave,  Major  W.  W.,  330;  332; 
367. 

Covington,  Col.  Leonard,  310. 

Cowen,  James,  285. 

Cowen,  John,  285. 

Cowley,  Corporal  Matthew,  286. 

Cox,  John,  323. 

Coxe,  Will,  65 ;  274. 

Craig,  George,  286. 

Craig,  Major  Isaac,  446.   ' 

Craig,  Sir  James,  208. 

Craig,  John,  285. 

Craigs,  277. 

Crane,  526;  637. 

Crawford,  Isaac,  286. 

Crawford,  Lewis,  236. 

Creeks,  27 ;  60. 

Creighton,  703. 

Crittenden,  Major  J.  F.,  564. 

Crockett,  Anthony,  59*;  Capt., 
192*  •  845. 

Crockett,  Col.  Joseph,  192*. 

Croghan,  Capt.  George,  437;  439 
Major,  494;  502;  511;  512;  521 
to  Harrison,  503;  509;  514-516 
to  editor  Liberty  Hall,  527-529 
530-531;  667. 

Crooks,  General,  241;  Major,  622. 

Crow,  Thomas  S.,  323;  327. 

Culbertson,  to  Chambers,  139-140. 

CumniJngs,  Capt  Alcxando",  216* 


760 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Cunningham,  Daniel,  2G4. 

Curry,  James,  15*;  24G;   Lt.,  2S4; 

37G*. 
Cushinjv,  CapL.  Daniel,  43G. 
Cutting,  Lewis,  285. 

Daniel,  John  W.,  323. 

Danolds,  Sergt.  John,  286. 

Darnell,  Sergt.,  323. 

Darnell,  Daniel,  327.- 

Darrow,  Maj.  George,  367. 

Davenport,  John,  323. 

Davidson,  Andrew,  286. 

Daviess,  Maj.  John,  10;  250;  Col, 

753. 
Daviess,  Wm.,  323. 
Davis,  John,  286. 
Davis,  Thomas,  286. 
Davy,  Brig.  Gen.  Wm.  R.,  377='. 
Dawson,  S.  G.,  158. 
Day,  Isaac,  314;  to  Harrison,  307- 

308*. 
Day,  Joseph,  323. 
Dearborn,   Gen.   Henry,    103;    155; 

Maj.  Gen.,  431;  471. 
Dearborn,  Fort,  81. 
Decker,  Col.  Luke,  81;  350. 
Defiance,  Fort,  143. 
Delawares,  13;  34;  36;  39;  40;  45; 

50*;    52-53;    56;    83;    97*;    164; 

175;    18G;    229;    254;    275;    401; 

402;    419;    509;    535;    555;    027; 

631;    636;    636;    638,    639;    041; 

642;    671;    687;    719;    72J ;    734. 
Denny,  Ebenezer,   137;    150;   Maj., 

157;    164;    177;    180;    182;    213; 

241. 
Depredations,  Indian,  35-37. 
Deputy,  Co3-p.  Joshua,  286. 
DeRottenbucsv,  Mnior  General,  543- 

544 ;  563 ;  582 ;  584. 
Desha,  Maj.  Gen.  Joseph,  547;  561; 

562;  563;  564. 
Detachment  Orders,  17;  18. 
Detroit,  Fall  of,  108;   111;   march 

toward,  156. 
Devason,  Benjamin,  20. 
Dickey,  William,  286. 
Dickson,  Robert,  207*;   209;  state- 
ment, 235-236;    to    General  Pre- 

vost,  251-252;  see  Dixon, 
Dill,  James,  28;  29;  102;  048;  685; 
Dishman,  Cornet,  258;  Comd.,  289. 
Dixon,  George,  600. 
Dixon,      Robert,      Biitish      Indian 

Agent,  394;  485;  450;  512. 
Dodd,  Jos.,  264. 
Doom,  George,  280. 
Dougherty,  Hannibal,  286. 
Downey,  Henry,  327. 
Downey,  William,  20. 


;   641. 

Capt., 

G70; 


1-412: 


.,  281 


Driftwood,  Settlement,  3G. 
Di-ummond,  Lt.  General,  G27 
Dubois,  Toui?sant,  1;  18;  31: 

192;    510;    G69;    G73 ;    G7G: 

G80;  GSl;  G83;  G8G. 
Ducharme,  Paul,  236. 
Duchouquit,  578. 
Dudley,  Capt.  Peter,  436. 
Dudley,    Capt.     William,    41 

437;    Col.,   441;    443;    470; 

565;  592;  650. 
Duncan,  Lt.  Jo.seph,  512. 
Dunlap,  Col.  James,  144;  26S. 
Dunlap,  John,  285. 
Duidap,  Moses,  285. 
Dunlap,  Stephen,  285. 
Dunn,  John,  286. 
Dunn,  Nathaniel,  286. 
Dunn,  Williamson,  15*;  Capt 

282;  286;  376*;  572. 
Duval,  Capt.,  233;  Maj.,  276 
Dyer,  281. 


Eastin,  Charles,  20;  28G. 

Easlin,  Phil,  20. 

Eastin,  Thomas.  264. 

Eastman,  Dr.,   'G;  620. 

Edwards,   Gov.   Ninian,  27;   41-42; 

58;  59;  71;  79;  84;  95;  179;  233; 

394;    403;    414;    466;    to   Shelbv, 

395-396;   491;  571;   696;   731. 
Edwards,    Sergt.    Major    G.,    2G0; 

263;  289. 
Eel   River   Miamies,   18;    50*;    53; 

56;  229;  577;  579. 
Elhuton,  William,  322. 
Elliot,    Capt.   Jesse   D.,    580;    59G; 

616;  621. 
Elliott,  Corp.  E.,  264. 
Elliott,    Capt.    V/ilson,    253;    257: 

258;    362;    371;    374;   437;    439; 

444;   461;   550. 
Elliott,  Matthew,  54;  61;  93;  220; 

Col.,  247*;   512;   518;   514;   537; 

592;  to  Glegg,  626-628;  to  Stew- 
art, 631-632;  641;  716. 
Elmore,  Capt.,  2G3. 
Ervin,  Ensign,  288. 
Estes,  Abiaham,  322. 
Estes,  Clement,  322. 
Eubank,  James  T.,  246;  437;   747. 
Evans,  Robert  M.,  49=';   Col.,  107; 

285;  410;  498;  6-18;  285. 
Eyke,  Ten,  374. 

Farley,  William,  28G. 

Feriis,  Ezra,  710;  711. 

Ficklin,  323. 

Fielas,  Luke,  323. 

Field  Officers,  to  Harrison,  530-531. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        761 


Fields,  Green  B.,  15*;  Ensign,  28(>; 

376*. 
Findley  Blockhouse,  388;  '101. 
Findlay,  .James,  268;  472;  General, 

709. 
Finley,  Col.  James,  150*;  171;  172. 
Fishel,  288. 

Fisk,  Abraham  T.,  19. 
Five  Medals,  33 ;  692. 
Fleet,   Ensign   William,   319;    323; 

329. 
Flenn,  Martin,  280. 
Fletcher,  Major,  436. 
Flint,  John,  285. 
Floyd,   Davis,  43;   Maj.,   50*;   57; 

59;   350;   to  Gibson,  396-397;   to 

Posev,  721 ;  722. 
Floyd,  Maj.  George  R.,  123. 
Folsovoins,  639. 
Forsyth,  Cap t.,  312. 
Ft.  Stephenson,  502. 
Ft.    Wayne,    besieged,    117;     130; 

143;  145;  149;  482. 
Ft.  Winchester,  482;  485. 
Foster,  JosJah  D.,  6;  284. 
Fowler,  Jacob,  246. 
Foxes,  626. 
Frame,  William,  323. 
Franklin,  County  of,  48. 
Franks,  Jacob,  236. 
Frederick,  Maj.  Jacob,  367. 
Fuller,  Charles,  6. 
Fullerton,  Adjt.,  260;   289. 
Funk,  Frederick,  281. 

fe      Gainer,  William,  285. 
S^     Gains,   Lt.    Col.    Edmund    P.,   427; 
494;    524;    538;    564;    578;    590; 
594. 
Galloway,  Maj.  James,  217;  367. 
Gamelin,  742. 

Gano,  John  S.,  576;  Gen.  596;  to 
Harrison,  620-621;  622-624;  625- 
626;  628-629;  707. 
Gardner,  Capt.  Benjamin,  246;  620. 
Garrard,  Lt.  Ashton,  329. 
Garrard,    Maj.    James,    320;    321; 

828. 
Garrard,  Capt.  William,  108;  124; 
140;    141;    144;    149;   256;   259; 
263;  272;  289;  304. 
Geigcr,  Frederick,  68. 
General  Orders,  94;  124;  141;  142; 
288-291;  435-438;  457;  465;  520; 
546-550. 
:^.-      Gerles,  Charles,  327. 
I       Gibson  county,  65*. 

Gibson,  John,  to  HnrgTove,  71;  75- 

76;  80-81;  91;  95;  133-134;  138; 

,v  139;   to  President,  75;   363-304; 

'  ■■  Alien  Residents,  101-102;  to  Sec- 

61— 220C4 


retarv  War,  308-309;  349-350; 
362-363;  381-382;  40G-40S;  to  In- 
diana Assemblv,  346-349;  354; 
607-609;  to  Secretary  of  State, 
570-572;  729-730. 

Gibson,  General  John,  154;  179; 
223;  285;  664. 

Gibbons,  Corp.  Jonathan,  284. 

Giflin,  James,  263. 

Giles,  Henrv,  287. 

Gill,  Capt.  William,  632;  633. 

Gilmore,  William,  287. 

Girty's  town,  149;  388. 

Gist,  234. 

Givins,  Major,  642. 

Glaves,  Capt.  Michael,  319;  323: 
334;  340;  to  Harrison,  341. 

Giegg,  Capt.  J.  B.,  to  Bavnes,  207- 
210;  to  Harrison,  626-628. 

Godfrey,  Mouse,  23;  374. 

Godfroy,  Gabriel,  587;  588. 

Gooding,  Lt.,  4 ;  6 ;  8. 

Goodwin,  Judge  V/illiam,  660. 

Graham,  Major  Richard,  437;  439; 
531. 

Grand  Poc,  719. 

Gratiot,  Charles,  137*;  Capt.,  178; 
237;  244;  250;  306;  403;  435; 
436;  439;  745. 

Graves,  Major  Benjamin,  319;  320; 
321;  373. 

Graves,  Thomas,  323. 

Gray,  Ensign  James,  463;  475. 

Gray,  Samuel  T.,  287. 

Grear,  Cornet,  260 ;  264 ;  289. 

Gregg,  David,  15* ;  376*. 

Gregg,  Harvey,  694. 

Gruly,  Aaron,  202;  465;  to  Harri- 
son, 526-527 ;  538 ;  705. 

Greenup,  Christopher,  98*. 

Greenville,  peace  of,  85. 

Griffith,  William  N.  285. 

Griffith,  Sergt.  John,  286. 

GrigTion,  Louis,  236. 

Grignon,  Pierre,  236. 

Guiger,  Capt.,  3* ;  4;  8;  31*. 

Gunn,  George,  287. 

Guthrie,  John,  280;  287. 

Guy,  Adj.,  288. 

Gwynne,  Lt.  David,  258;  289;  424; 
437;  444;  471;  499. 


Hadden,  Jolm,  15*;  376*. 

Hailes,  Lt.,  434. 

Haines,  Major,  538. 

Hamblen,  William,  287. 

Hamilton,  Capt.  John,  319;  323; 
329;  440. 

Hamilton  county,  indorses  Harri- 
son, 310-311. 


762 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Hampton,     General     Wade,     310; 

,     377*;  426;  434;  70G. 

Hangonahkqua  Scpoo,  274, 

Hanna,  Joseph,  SO. 

•Harber,  Major  John,  Co*. 

Harden,  Serg-t.  Major,  498. 

Hardin,  Major,  247. 

Hargrove,  instructions  to,  71-73; 
Capt.,  95*;  572. 

Harmar,  188. 

Harmon,  237. 

Harrison,  Ensign  Battail,  289;  437. 

Harrison,  Benjamin,  749;  754. 

Harrison  county,  73. 

Harrison,  George,  309. 

Harrison,  Robert,  322. 

Harrison,  Scott,  754. 

Harrison,  William  Henry,  reports 
by  officers,  5-13 ;  remonstrances, 
29*;  general  orders,  35-38;  com- 
missioned major  general,  91 ; 
calls  mounted  volunteers,  147; 
rescue  of  Foi-t  Wayne,  166;  gen- 
eral orders,  223 ;  appointments  in 
army,  226;  api!ointment  as  major 
general,  377*;  plan  of  northwest 
campaign,  390* ;  exchange  of 
prisoners,  433-434;  general  or- 
ders, 435-438;  449;  457;  465; 
520;  546-550;  M'Keehan  narra- 
tive, 461-463;  provision  report, 
479;  relieves  Croghan,  503;  de- 
fended by  CrogJian,  527-529;  de- 
fended by  field  officers,  530-531; 
contractor's  estimate,  535-537; 
report  of  lake  battle,  539;  be- 
haviour of  men  in  battle,  541; 
congratulated  on  lake  victory, 
545;  proclamation,  554;  victory 
over  Proctor,  557;  defended  by 
Chambers,  564;  defended  by 
Todd,  566;  armistice  with  In- 
dians, 577-579;  proclamation, 
579;  581;  loss  of  messenger, 
588-589;  treatment  of  prisoners, 
590-594;  599;  British  deserter, 
597-598;  toast  to  militia,  610;  ill 
health  of  Gen.  Howard,  628;  In- 
dian question,  636-641;  resigna- 
tion from  army,  647-648;  651- 
652 ;  Indian  treaty,  675 ;  725 ;  re- 
port of  investigating  committee, 
744;  saved  life  of  Kidding,  746; 
soldiers'  pensions,  746-747;  death 
of  Tecumseh,  749-754;  unable  to 
attend  celebration  of  battle  of 
Tippecanoe,  755-756;  588;  487; 
490;  493-494;  499-500;  502-503; 
513-514. 

Harrow,  Ensign  Joseph,  319;  329. 

Harryman,  42, 


Hart,  Capt.  Gray  S.,  372. 

Hart,  Capt.  Nathaniel,  G.  T.,  180*. 

Hart,  Capt.  Thomas,  180*. 

Hart,  Phillip,  285. 

Haslett,  Samuel,  285. 

Hai'vey,  Absalom,  29. 

Hawkins,  A.,  6 ;  287. 

Hawkins,  Joseph  II.,  343-344. 

Hawkins,  Lewis,  286. 

Hawkins,  Ensigii  Martin  L.,  437. 

Hav/kins,    Strother    I.,    260;    263; 

Sergt,  289;  Lt.,  234. 
Hawkins,  Ensign  Thomas,  309. 
Hay,  James,  285. 
Hay,  John  D.,  285. 
Hays,  David,  283. 
Heald,  Capt.  Nathaniel,  99;   103*; 

105;  187. 
Heard,  Ensig-n,  636. 
Hedges,  Lt.  James,  259;  263;  289. 
Henderson,  Sergt.  John,  436;  454. 
Hendricks,  Capt.,  43. 
Henry,    Major    General    William, 

547;  561;  635. 
Henseley,  Samuel,  20. 
Herndon,  Capt.,  46. 
Herod,  Cornet,  259 ;  289. 
Herrod,  Hanes,  285. 
Herrod,  Sergt.  John,  284. 
Herrod,  Corp.  Samuel,  284. 
Herron,  Ensign  James,  319;  329. 
Hickman,  Lt.  David,  263;  289. 
Hickman,  Harris  H.,  259. 
Hickman,  Capt.  Pascal,  316;  320; 

323;  327. 
Hickman,  R.,  343-344. 
Higgins,  Lt.  John,  319;  329. 
Hightower,     Capt.     Richard,     319; 

322;  329. 
Hiler.  William,  285. 
Hill,  Capt.,  620. 
Hill,  Col.  Rees,  527. 
Hillis,  Lt.  David,  15*;  286;  376*. 
IlJllis,  Sergt.  Ebenezer,  2SG. 
Hindostan,  44. 

Ilinkton,  Capt.,  205;  217;  220. 
llinton,  30;  274;  276. 
Hite,  Capt.  Lewis,  252;  260;  288; 

289"  292. 
Hobson,  Lt.;  258 ;  289. 
Hoggerhs,  William,  63*. 
Holcroft,  John,  263. 
Holder,  Lt.  Caleb,  319;  V/'O. 
Iloleman,  Aaron,  285. 
Holeman,  Isaac,   663. 
Halland,  Corp.  Andrcv.'  B.,  284. 
Holman,  Josejdi,  710;  711. 
Holmes,  Capt.,  620. 
Holmes,  Maj.  Andrew  Hunter,  485; 

523 ;  524 ;  to  Butler,  632-636. 
Holt,  Col.,  261. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        763 


Holton,  John  A.,  323. 

Hopkins,    S.    G.,   Jr.,    to    Harrii^on, 

369-371. 
Hopkins,      General      Samuel,      98; 

120*;   122;   123;   153:    154;   159; 

to    Harrison,    1G2-163;    to    Gov. 

Shelby,  231-234;   1S6;   189;   192; 

193;    201;    204;    211;    224;    245; 

256;  262;  268;  308;  395;  664. 
Hopkins,    Capt.    Samuel    G.,    216; 

259;    263;    272;    289;    304;    506- 

507;  611;  614. 
Hospital  Stores  List,  486. 
House   Representatives,   to   Gibson, 

352-353. 
Howard,  Capt.,  622. 
Howard,    Governor    Beniamin,    27; 

92;    179;    Brig.   G^n.,  610;    614; 

628;  665. 
Hudson,  Dudley,  322. 
Huff,  Fort,  276. 
Huffman,  Benjamin,  279;  280;  643- 

644;  655. 
Huffman,  Isaac  D.,  285. 
Huffman,  W.,  408;  307. 
Hughes,  Major,  234. 
Hukill,    Lt.    Levi,    241;    246;    310; 

423;   4::.3;   427;    434;    437:    439; 

447;  496;  497;  524;  531;  613. 
Hull,  David,  264. 
Hull,   Gen.   William.   67*;   68;   77; 

80;   90;   91*;   92;   97;   105;   106; 

111;    113;   119;    141;    150;   209; 

243;  565;  587. 
Humble,  Jesse,  322.  -- 

Hunt,  George,  102 ;  649. 
Hunt,  Henry  L.,  374. 
Hunt,  Jesse,   to  Harrison,   28-30*; 

118;  119;  151:  394;  423;  464. 
Hunter,  Cyrus,  264. 
Hunter,  Capt.  James,  3*;  512;  515. 
Hunter,  W.  S.,  181. 
Huntingdon,  Col.  Samuel,  423. 
Hurons,  642. 
Hurst,  A.,  37. 
Hurst,  H.,  11. 
Hurst,  John,  101*. 
Hutcherson,  278. 
Hutchins,  Esraim,  286. 
Hutson,  31 ;  33. 


Indian  speeches,  50-53. 
Ingles,  George,  198;  199;  200. 
Investigation,  Harrison   connection 

to     commissary     of     Northwest 

Army,  744. 
Invoice  of  Stores,  194-200.  .  ;: 
Iroquois,  402. 
Ii-win,  Williamson,  287. 
Izard,  General  George,  680. 


Jackson,  Hezokiah,  635. 

James,  Capt.  Henry,  320;  329. 

Jem,  15. 

Jenkins,  285. 

Jenkinson,  I\Iajor  Joseph,  161. 

Jennings  Blockhouse,  161;  184. 

Jennings,  Col.,  95. 

Jennings,  Jonathan,  to  28; 

29;    to   Harrison,    152-153;    228; 

280;     to     constituents,     376-377; 

571;  643;  685. 
Jennings,  William,  131;  143;  149; 

161;  181;  448. 
Jessup,  ]\Iajor  Thomas  Sidney,  415; 

434;    458;    477;    484;    596;    Cok, 

709. 
Johnson,  Lt.  Benjamin,  512. 
Johnson,  Charles,  British  deserter, 

598. 
Johnson,  D.  IT.,  128. 
Johnson,  Capt.  Hezekiah,  289;  453. 
Johnson,  Homer,  15*;  to  Harrison, 

193;  200;  221;  222;  376*;  498. 
Johnson,  James,  Jr.,  287. 
Johnson,   John,    12;    14;    44*;    56; 

secretaiy  war,  509;  to  Huffman, 

167*;  175;  to  Harrison,  186-187; 

189;  262;  277;  419;  437;  439;  to 

643-644;  655. 
Johnson,  Capt.  John,  250. 
Johnson,  Major  John  T.,  437;  439; 

Lt.  Col.,  564. 
Johnson,  Sir  John,  618;  631. 
Johnson,  Jonathan,  285. 
Johnson,  Richard   M.,   144*;    Maj., 

149;    158;    190;    201;    298;    Col., 

411;    416;    420;    435;    451;    458; 

459:   466;  to  Hairison,  460-461; 

468-470;  475;  477;  480;  to  Har- 
rison,    482-483;     485;     487-490: 

491;    495;    555;    557;    559;    561; 

563;  568;  651;  752;  753;  751. 
Johnson,  Steven,  175*. 
Johnson,  William,  287;  350. 
Jones,  Peter,  1. 
Jones,  Robert,  286. 
Jones,  Richard,  374. 
Jones.  Thomas,  16 ;  24 ;  287. 
Jordan,   W.   K.,   to   his   v.^ife,   165- 

167*;  Capt,  239. 

Kaskaskias,  636;  671. 

Keen,  Pollard,  329. 

Kelso,   General.  173. 

Keith,  George,  322. 

Kelly,  Abraham,  286. 

Kelly,  Davis,  285. 

Kelly,  Jacob,  20. 

Kelly,  James  S.,  286. 

Kelly,  Capt.  Joseph,  319;  323;  320. 

Kelly,  Robert,  323. 


761 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Kellv,  Thomas  F.,  28G. 

Kelly,  William,  280. 

Kentucky  Vountcers,  80;  88. 

Ketcham,  Scvgt.  John,  ranger  sciX' 
ice,  274-284^ 

Ketcham,  Lewis,  286. 

Kickapoos,  4;  21;  22;  25;  27;  33 
41;  50*;  53;  55;  50;  61;  66;  77 
83;  96;  163;  187;  192;  232;  275 
638;  639;  640;  641;  666;  607 
668;  676;  679;  086;  688;  695 
691;  092;  696;  697;  716;  717 
718;  720;  721;  722;  724;  726 
727;  728;  731;  734;  737;  740. 

Kilbourn,  James,  609. 

Kimberlin,  279. 

Kimble,  Jesse,  72. 

King,  Gen.  John  Edward,  546 ;  561 ; 
564. 

Kinsey,  481. 

Kircheval,  Lt.  Samuel,  437. 

Kit  Twa  Wiotum,  57S. 

Knox,  Ft.,  26. 

Knox  countv,  36;  101. 

Knox,  Lt.  John,  033. 

Kow  Be  r.Iiscobeo,  578. 

Koun.s,  John  C,  Lt.,  635. 


Labbadi,  Medare,  to  Harrison,  360- 

362;  374. 
Labossierre,    676-677;     686;     692; 

721. 
LaCroix,  Hubert,  587. 
LaFrambois,   676;   to   Parke,   690- 

691;  719;  723;  725. 
Lamani3och,  578. 
Lamb,  Dr.,  276. 
Langham,  Capt.  Angus  Lewis,  368; 

383;  437;  439;  448;  577. 
Lansing,  Francis,  264. 
LaPlante,  John  Baptiste,  12-13. 
LaPlante,  Pierre,  498 ;  694. 
Lapousier,  24;  25;  32;  38;  56;  83; 

578;  680;  686. 
Larrabee,  C.,  10-11. 
Lascelles,  93. 

Lascelles,  Mademoiselle,  374. 
Lascelles,  Stanislas,  756. 
Lasselle,  Hyacinth,   15*;   372;    Lt, 

376*;    498;    067-068;    G85;    687; 

692;  693. 
Latham,  Pobert,  131;  132. 
Law,  Thomas,  474. 
Law,  Corp.  Willis,  286. 
Lawrence,  Thomas,  40-41. 
LeBreton,  Lt.,  518;  591;  599. 
Lee,  Cornet,  260;  264;  289. 
Lee,  John,  287. 
Lee,  Lt.  Stephen,  437;  Capt.,  633; 

636. 


Lcftwich,  General,  333:   356;   383; 

417;  423;  445. 
Legislature   of    Indiana,    Memorial 

to  Congress,  730-731. 
Lcmar,  Joseph  (Penard),  125. 
Lemon,  James,  101*. 
Lemon t,  461. 

Leonard,  Capt.  John,  603. 
Lethbridge,  Col.,  462. 
Levitt,  Sergt.  William,  258;  289. 
Le\\ds,  037. 
Lews,  Jacob,  287. 
Lewis,  James,  287. 
Lewis,    Brig.    Gen.    INIorgan,   377*; 

383. 
Lewis,  Richard,  282;  285. 
Lewis,  Severe,  283;  287. 
Lewis,  Col.  William,  124;  144;  314; 
315;  310;  817;  318;  325;  to  Win- 
chester, 319-324;  328;  329;  335; 
337;  339;  340;  587. 
Lindsey,  Joshua,  280. 
Lindsey,  William,  285. 
Lennard,  V\'illiam,  198;  199;  200. 
Little,  Lt.  Alexander,  03*. 
Little  Beaver,  748. 
Little  Ducks,  722;  720;  742. 
Little  Eves,  24;   32;   35;   38;   665; 
666;    668;    676;    687;    726;    727; 
732 ;  742. 
Little  Otter,  742. 
Little,  Samuel,  15*;  32. 
Little  Thunder,  262. 
Little   Turtle,   to   Harrison,   18-19; 

21;  262;  637. 
Lock,  John,  322. 
Logan,    Major    Eobert,    192;    246; 

247. 
Logan,  Vv'illiam,  63*;  186. 
Logue,  William,  263. 
Long,  Samuel,  287. 
Loring,  Capt.  Robert  R.,  041-042. 
Lousong,  Francis,  260. 
Lownsley,  Major,  051. 
Luce,  Capt.,  2^0;  289. 
Lyanor,  Sergt.,  323. 

Mack,  Ma j.,  374.  '     • 

Madison,   Mai.    George,   158;    319; 

320;  321;  322;  328. 
Madiss,  Charles,  246. 
IMagee,  Lt.  Matthew  F.,  288. 
Magonago,  578. 
j\Tain  Poc,  550;  580;  067. 
Maiden,  Ft.,  16;  279-304. 
Manarv,    Capt.    James,    168;    171; 

186;  191*. 
Marchus,  Robert,  20. 
Marcle,  Capt.  Abraham,  249;  257*; 

258;   200;    263;   272;   289;  .292; 

304. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        765 


Mark,  Andrew,  714. 

Markel,  See  Marcle. 

Marpack,  21. 

Marpock,  611. 

Mars,  233. 

Martin,  Maj.  Thomas,  82;  92. 

Maslikeman,  578. 

Mason,  General,  614;  617;  64.5. 

Massie,  Gen.  Nathaniel,  190*. 

Mathers,  Mrs.  L.  C,  167*. 

Matson,  Capt.,  319;  S22. 

Maxwell,  David,  283;  287. 

Maxwell,  John,  287. 

May,  John,  263;  285;  judge,  374. 

Mavo,  Daniel,  246. 

McAffee,  Capt.,  12;  753. 

McAllister,  Walter,  264. 

McArtliur,  Gen.  Duncan,  190'' 
268;  380;  414;  421;  430;  445 
446;  451;  454;  472;  511;  512 
517;  541;  546;  549;  558;  573 
574;  579;  589;  596;  598;  600 
624;  649;  651. 

McArthur    Blockhouse,    176;    184; 
388;  401. 

McCall,  James  B.,  661. 

McCall,  Adj.  John,  321;  329. 

McCarmon,  John,  263. 

]\IcCartney,  287. 

McClanahan,  Maj.,  333;  334;  338; 

to  Harrison,  338-341. 
McClanahan,  Cornet,  259;  289. 
McClary,  Ensign,  319. 
McCleland,   Joseph    G.,   257;    259; 

289. 
McCloskey,  Asst.  Q.  M.,  239. 
McCIoskev,  Col.  James,  468;  471. 
McClure,    Gen.    George,    596;    597; 
598;  000;  013;  to  Harrison,  604; 
606-607. 
McClu>py,  James,  246. 
McCollough,  James,  275;  287. 
McConnell,  Col.,  140. 
McConnell,  Edvrard,  322.     ■     .-.: 
McConnell,  Ja.,  263. 
McConnell,  Thomas,  287. 
McCracken,  Capt.  W.,  319;  322. 
McCracken,  Capt.  Virgin,  372. 
McCullough,  Silas,  257;  288;  289. 
McClure,  Capt.,  501. 
McDermot,  filichael,  264. 
McDougliall,  George,  587;  5S8. 
McDowall,  Col.  Robert,  to  Indians, 

652-655. 
McDowell,   Col.   -Joseph,  564;    Maj. 

257;  289;  292*. 
McFarland,  418. 
McFarhmd,  Daniel,  622. 
McFarland,  William,  648.  •-.  - 
McGan",  Hugh,  648. 
McGary,  Maj.  William  R.,  130-131. 


McGee,  Lt.,  437. 

McGhee,      Lt.     James,      appointed 
Capt.,  516. 

McGowan,  John,  24;  44*;  691. 

McGuire,  Lt.  William,  319;  329. 

Mclntire,  Lt.,  43  i. 

Mcintosh,  16;  24. 

McJunkin,  John,  107. 

McJunkin,  Ferriage,  222-223. 

McCay,  George,  287. 

McKav,  James,  287. 

McKav,  Robert  Fourth,  287. 

I\IcKay,  Robert  Third,  287. 

McKay,  William,  287. 

McKee,  Maj.  Alexander,  93;  189'=; 
537. 

McKee,  John,  189*. 

McKce,  Samuel,  158;  ISO*. 

McKeehan,  Dr.  Samuel,  359;  372; 
375;  narrative,  461-463. 

McLean,  John,  712. 

McNair,  Capt,  239. 

McNamee,  W.,  661. 

McNaught,  John,  285. 

McNight,  John,  285. 

McQuire,  Lt.  I\Iajor  James,  502. 

Meeks,  Atha,  42*. 

Meeks,  John,  512. 

Meeks,  Maior  John,  620. 

I\Ichl,  to  MeW,  22-23. 

Meigs  Cam.p,  488;  489;  494;  945. 

Meigs,    Fort,    440-445;    447;    459; 
466. 

Meigs,  Gov.  R.  J.,  97*;  99;  106; 
,  108;  119;  139;  140;  147;  152;  to 
Harrison,  164;  173;  179;  182- 
183;  188;  213;  214:  215;  250; 
334;  341;  402;  419;  430*;  431; 
434;  449;  450;  451;  general  or- 
ders, 447-448;  456;  475;  523; 
533;  575-576. 

Meld  rum,  Sergt.  436. 

Menard,  Col.  Pierre,  731. 

Meredith,    William    P.,    15*;     Lt., 
284;  376*. 

Merrit,  Capt,  599.     ,      -C  ' 

Meshewa,  578.  '    C'^:^ 

Metcalf,  Capt,  436.        vi   "''  ' 

l\Ietz,  Peter,  287. 

Miamis,  5;  15;  16;  18;  25;  31;  34 
39;    40;    50*-o3;    56;    97*;    109 
117;    125;    128;    138;    143;    104 
174;    ISG;    189;    19li;    201;    229 
2.30;    254;    270;    391;    555;    573 
574;    577;    579;    636;    637;    640 
667;    672;    676;    677;    GS6;    687 
688;    091;    717;    718;    719;    721; 
725;  734. 
Michiganians,  638;  671. 
Michilam.'cinack,  81. 
Military  Board,  114. 


76G  INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Militia,  condition,  113-114. 

Miller  Col.  Charles,  367. 

Miller,  James,  Lt.  Col.,  17;  18:  42; 

88;  090. 
Miller,   Col.   John,   122;    131;    132; 
133;    193;    217;    224;    233;    390; 
409;    432-433;    436;    437;    439; 
443;  445;  446;  578. 
Milton,  John,  286. 
Minary's  Blockhouse,  170. 
MingoGs,  97*;  509. 
Minto,  75. 

Missineway,  expedition,  209-274. 
Missineway  Indians,  571. 
Mitchel,  Dr.  236. 
Mitchel,  Ensign  Charles,  437. 
Mitchel,  Robert,  258;  289. 
Moheccon  John's  Creek,  156*. 
Monroe,  James,  287;  359;  368;  403. 
Monroe,  William,  264. 
Montgomery,  Thomas,  158;   Sej-gt., 

289. 
Montgomery,  William,  258. 
Mooney,  James,  286. 
Moore,  Dr.  289. 
Moore,  Capt.  Hugh,  404;  024. 
Moore,  Joshua,  322. 
Moore,  Thomas,  258;  200. 
Moore,  Lt.  William,  319;  329. 
Mooring,  Ensign  Joseph,  329, 
Moravian  town,  560;  561. 
Morgan,  Ensign  John  E.,  250. 
Morgan,  Moses,  323. 
Morgan,  William,  47*. 
Morgcin,  Willoughby,  697;  723. 
Morris,  Capt.,  339. 
Morris,  B.,  323. 
Morris,  Samuel  R.,  107. 
Morrison,  Ensign,  319. 
Morrison,  Ephraim,  47*. 
Morrison,  James,  139*;   Col.,  177- 
178;     210;     215-216;     227;    237; 
239;    241;   245;    294;   299;    317; 
355;   383;    425;   477;   703;    707; 
709. 
Morrison,  J,  W.,  47*. 
Morrison,  Major  Robert,  485;  Col., 

531;  692. 
Morrow,  Jeremiah,  651;  97*;   108. 
Mounted  Volunteers,  147. 
Mudhole,  72. 
Muir,  Major,  371;  375. 
Mundy,  Ensig'n  James,  329. 
Munsees,  401;   027. 
Munson,  Maj.  Jeremiah  R.,  485. 
Murray,  233. 

Muster  Roll,  Rangers,  284-287. 
Myeis,   John   F.,   to   Proctor,   429; 
694. 

Naggs,  Capt.  James,  257;  289;  373. 


Nash,  Ensign  John  W.,  319;   329. 
Nash,  Ensign  William,  319;  329. 
Navarre,    Col.    Francis,    339;    480- 

481;  532. 
Nearing,  Capt.  Asahael,  437;  439. 
Nebuc,  Thomson,  748. 
Neely,  30. 
Negomin,  074. 
Negro  Legs,  32;  37;  128;  070;  080; 

742. 
Nelson,  712. 

Netherford,  Martin,  372;  375. 
Newland,  John  H.,  287. 
Newport,  80, 
Nicoming,  748. 
Noble,  Benjamin,  285. 
Noble,  James,  to  Harrison,  45-46*; 

47;  48;  102;  048. 
Nolan,  John,  322. 

NortliAvestern  Army,  130-137;  149. 
Norton,  Capt.,  018. 
Nugent,  Levi,  286. 


Oconongoway,  578. 

0 drain,  374. 

O'Fallon,  Lt.  John,  437;  439;  524; 

564;  644;  Col,,  750;  751;  752, 
Ogdon,  Brig.  Gen.  Aaron,  377*. 
O  Gu  Bonawke,  578. 
Ohio  Militia  Officers,  to  Harrison, 

366-367. 
Oliver,    William,    429;    430;     495; 

629;   Capt.,  707;   708. 
Onocksa,  578, 
Orory  Miah,  579. 
Orr,  A.  D.,  246. 

Orr,  B.  G.,  202;  orders  from  Har- 
rison, 454;   450;  403;   465;  473; 

478;  Col.,  527;  to  Harrison,  535- 

537;    538;    644;    045.-    700;    702,^ 

705;  707;  708. 
Osage,  578;  040. 
Ostrander,  Lt.  Phillip,  100. 
Otapon,  578. 
Otish  Quoi  Gonaim,  578. 
Ottawa  Town,  see  Tawa. 
Ottawas,   50*;    53;    50;    97*;    481; 

555;    573;    577;    579;    592;    000; 

636;  039;  720;  722. 
Otter,  578;  680. 
Overton,  James,  328. 
Oveiton,  Moses,  287. 
Owen,  Braclcctt,  287. 
Owen,  Georg-e  W.,  285, 
Owen,  Harvey,  285. 
Owens,  Ensign  Jack,  282  284. 
Owens,  John,  15*;  370.* 
Owens,  Col.  Thomas  D.,  473*;  495; 

501;   507;  531, 
0\:1,  174;   691-092. 


HARRISON:     IMESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        767 


Packett,  Lt.,  G21. 

Paddocks,  Joseph,  648. 

Pain,  John  C,  240. 

Papaliongua,  sec  L.-ipousier. 

Parish,  Constance,  68G. 

Park,     Judge     Benjamin,     30;     to 

Posey,     GG7-6G9;     G70-G73;     G7G- 

677;  G79;  G80-G82;  G8G-G88;  690; 

691-G94;    69G-G97;   71G-717;   718- 

721;  722-724;  726-727;  to  Brouil- 

lette,   669;    674;    675;    678;   684; 

689;    694;    698;   725;   731;   732; 
'      742. 
Pash  Kiesh  Quash  Rom,  578. 
Patrick,  Corp.  William,  284. 
Patterson,  Capt.,  289. 
Patton,  David,  287. 
Paull,  Col.  George,  501;  531;  562; 

624. 
Paul,  John,  102. 
Payette,  682. 
Payne,  Lt.,  289. 
Payne,    Major    Duval,    487;    488; 

564. 
Payne,  Capt.,  625. 
Payne,  Gen.  John,  74;  98;  108;  109; 

113;    138;    140;    141;    142;    144; 

152;   260;   to   Shelby,   318;    330; 

332;  337. 
Payton,  Capt.,  282. 
Payton,  Lt.  Craven,  571. 
Pearce,   Capt.   Bennoni,  253;   256; 

259. 
Pease,  Calvin,  435. 
Pearcy,  Henry,  285. 
Pearcy,  Robert,  285. 
Peck,  Adam,  285. 
Pecon,  229;  692;  716;  725. 
Pendall,  Thomas  H.,  246. 
Pendcrgrast,   Dr.    Garret   E.,   456. 
Pennington,  Dennis,  711. 
Peoples,  James,  323. 
Peorians,  638;   671. 
Percy,  Capt.  William,  191;  694. 
Perkins,    Gen.    Simon,    189;    211 

188*;   202;   203;   213;   214;   227 

240;    311;    319;    330;    332;    336 

367. 
Perry,  Andrew,  285. 
Perry,  Capt.  Oliver  H.,  31*;  477; 

484;  485;  490;  491;  commodore, 

501;    506;    523;    525;    538;    544; 

559;  562;  to  Harrison,  539;  540; 

to  secretai-y  of  navy,  510;   545- 

546;   to  Harrison,  5G9-570;   589; 

615;  750;  751;  752. 
Peter,  15-16. 
Peter,  Vanvacter,  275. 
Peters,  John,  287;  436. 
Petition,  from  Madison,  19-20;   of 

Michigan  territory,  5SG-58S. 


Phillip,  Joseph,  188. 

Piankeshaw,  Dick,  24*. 

Piankeshaws,  21;  22;  50*;  53;  56; 
75;  63G;  637;  G71;  696;  728; 
731;   733;    737. 

Piatt,  John  H.,  118*;  140;  151; 
156;  157;  IGl;  176*;  to  Har- 
rison, 181;  183;  213;  317;  355; 
383;  425;  455;  456;  473;  479; 
to  Harrison,  480;  704;  708. 

Piatt,  Salem,  259;  2G4. 

Piatt,   Capt.   William,   118*;    176*. 

Pidgeon  Roost,  121;  276;  massacre, 
116;  133;  138-139. 

Pierce,  Capt.  Bennoni,  249;  264. 

Pierceall,  Jeremiah,  285. 

Piqua,  Council  of,  97*. 

Piqua,  152. 

Pitts,  Capt.  Butler,  264. 

Pleasants,  712. 

Poague,  Col.  Robert,  see  Pogue. 

Pocanna,  578. 

Pogue,  Robert,  343;  149;  161;  181; 
238;   239;   448-449. 

Polke,  William,  to  Posey,  661-663. 

Pollord,  Rev.,  375. 

Pomagwamo,  578. 

Ponce  Passu  Creek,  232:  233. 

Pontiack,  578. 

Popping  Dick,  691. 

Porter,  John  P.  B.,  213;  general, 
597. 

Porter,  M.,  206. 

Porter,  Thomas,  263. 

Posey,  Gov.  Thomas,  to  secretary 
war,  377*-37S;  385;  497;  509- 
510;  572;  special  message,  612; 
to  secretary  war,  630;  convenes 
assembly,  C42;  657;  to  secretary 
war,  648-649;  655;  GGi;  GG3-G65; 
669;  674-676;  678;  679;  684-685; 
G88-G89;  694-696;  698;  715;  718; 
722;  724-726  727-728;  731;  732- 
734;  738-743;  to  general  assem- 
bly, 657-658;  659;  698-700;  to 
William  Pulke,  660-661;  to 
Parke,  682-683;  reply  to  legisla- 
ture, 711-712;  speech  to  Indians, 
739-742;  659;  661;  G63;  GG6-669; 
670;  673;  674;  685;  686;  710. 

Potawatomies,  12;  14-16;  21;  22; 
31;  33;  44;  45;  48;  49;  50*;  51- 
53;  56;  58;  60;  6G;  84;  96;  109 
143;  146;  174;  18G;  187;  211 
231;  280;  316;  360;  373;  391 
510;  555;  55G;  573;  574;  577 
579;  GOO;  636;  638;  639;  640 
641;  665;  667;  672;  677;  686 
688;  690;  691;  692;  717;  721 
722;  723;  734;  740. 

Potter,  John  C,  636. 


768 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Prairie  du  Chien,  450. 

Prather,  Basil,  G12. 

Provost,  Sir  George,  103;  472; 
544;  Gen.,  613;  to  Dickson,  G17- 
C20;  G52;  654;  752. 

Price,  Capt.  Samuel,  433;  440. 

Price,  Williamson,  322. 

Prince,  Capt.  William,  197;  228; 
262;  Major,  354;  3G3. 

Prisoneis,  agreement  for  exchange, 
433-434. 

Proclamation,  554;  579;  581;  con- 
vening general  assembly,  249; 
642;  call  for  volunteers,  106; 
116;  volunteers  wanted,  106-107; 
war  with  England,  116-117;  to 
militia  of  Ky.,  342-343;  encour- 
agement  to   volunteers,    343-344. 

Proctor,  Col.,  421;  Brig.  Gen.,  430; 
438;  443;  458;  462. 

Proctor,  Gen.  Henry,  470;  471; 
474;  481;  496;  512;  514;  516; 
522;  523;  to  Harrison,  518;  541; 
550;  551;  555;  557;  559;  to  Har- 
rison, 557-558;  5G0;  563;  565; 
566;  568;  575-576;  580;  5S2; 
585;  586;  587;  588;  591;  593; 
597;  613;  713;  753. 

Prophet,  5^^;  12-13;  32;  33;  39; 
43;  45;  109;  146;  175;  187;  208; 

.  232;  234;  360;  422;  598;  720; 
751. 

Provisions  issued  to  Indians,  at 
Vincennes,  735;  at  Fort  Har- 
rison, 736. 

Purcell,  Jonathan,  44*. 

Purcell,  John,  287. 

Purcell,  William,  44*. 

Puthuff,  Capt.  V/illiam  Henry,  501. 

Quarles,  Capt.,  91;  131. 
Queen  Charlotte,  267. 
Quitmot,  Antone,  643. 

Ramsay,  John,  287. 

Randolph,  Thomas,  1;  Col.,  595. 

Rawlins,  Joseph,   286. 

Ray  en.  Col.  William,  367. 

Reed,  279. 

Recruiting  in  Kentucky,  411-412. 

Red  Banks,  57;  90. 

Reddiok,  William,  274;  281. 

Redding,  James,  74G. 

Reed,  Duncan,  Deputy  Q.  M.,  527. 

Reed,  Capt.  James,  603.  . 

Reed,  John,  285.  ^     ■:    .-^ 

Rees,  Lt.  Jonathan,  437. 

ReifTenstein,  Lt.,  585.  - 

Renard,  718. 

Renis,  William,  287. 


Reports,  by  officers.,  5. 
Resolutions  on  war  v»'ith  England, 

75;    const,    convention,    728-729; 

House    Representatives,    710-711. 
Return,     battle     MissJneway,    262- 

265. 
Reynolds,   Maj.    (British),   321. 
Rhea,    James,     Capt.,    103*;     151; 

166;  167*. 
Richeson,  Lt.,  234. 
Richardson,   Robert   D.,   246;    473; 

578. 
Richardson,  Moses,  263. 
Richardson,   Lt.   Thomas   H.,   400; 

408. 
Richardville,  186;  229;  578. 
Riddle,  Corp.  Harry,  2G4;  258;  289. 
Ridge,  Samuel,  282;  285. 
Ried,  Co)p.,  264. 
Rings,  Robert,  323. 
Rislj',  James,  323. 
Ristine,  Lt.  Henry,  15*;  286;  376*. 
Ristine,  John,  287. 
Ritzer,  Major,  436. 
River  au  Raisins,  93. 
Roach,  John,  323. 
Robb,  Major,  10. 
Robb,  Fort,  72. 
Robbins,  Gevardus  R.,  20. 
Roberts,  Capt.  Charles,  643-644. 
Rol)orts,  Peter  H.,  287. 
Robinson,  Thomas,  263. 
Rogers,  31;  277. 
Rogers,  David,  279. 
Rogers,  Isaac,  285. 
Rogers,  James,  279;  285. 
Rogers,  Lewis,  285. 
Roper,  Major,  167;  170;  171. 
Rose,  Thomas,  285. 
Ross,  Charles  F.,  285. 
Ross,  George,  285. 
Ross,  Hugh,  285. 
Ross,  James,  285. 
Rosurahor,  see  Armewas. 
Round  Head,  537. 
Ruland,   Capt.  John,   257;    289. 
Rule,  Lt.  Bryan,  319;  329. 
Russel,  Col.  William,  57*;  59;  66 

67*;   71;   155;    163*;   192*;   245 

287;    378;    382;    391;    400;    407 

408;  to  Posey,  497-499;  509-510 

571;    665;    672;    690;    692;    693; 

695;  697. 
Ryan,  Thomas,  285. 
liyker,  Geviwdus,  287. 
Rvker,  John  C,  287. 
Ryker,  Corp.  Peter,  286. 
Rykcr,  Tno.,  20. 

Sabree,  Capt.  Uriah,  823;  329;  see 
Sebree. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS 


769 


Sxnco,  732, 

Sacs,  41;  636;  640. 

SalTord,  Col.   Robeit,  217;   307. 

Sage,  John.  276:  285. 

Sage,  William,  287. 

Sallion,  621. 

Salsbury,  Thomas,  263. 

Salt  Peter,  274. 

Salvers,  Henry,  287. 

Samuel,  .John,  281. 

Sanders,  Lt.  Benjamin  W.,  507. 

Sanders,  Lewis,  545. 

Sands,  James,  280. 

Sands,  John,  286. 

Saxes,  027. 

Scarles,  Charles,  S23. 

Scott,  Gov.  Charles,  81;  82;  84; 
87;  90;  91*;  98;  163*;  191:  370. 

Scott,  Dr.  James,  74;   143*. 

Scott,  James,  Speaker  House,  353. 

Scott,  Miss,  .374. 

Scott,  Thomas,  15* ;  Z2. 

Scott,  Col.  Winfield.  471;  595;  597. 

Scott,  William,  264. 

Scull,  Dr.  Edward,  613. 

Sebree,  Capt.  Uriah,  319;  430. 

Secretary  War,  to  Harrison,  14-15; 
71;  92;  96-97;  105;  106;  129; 
136-137;  139;  148;  155:  164; 
187-18S;  201;  251;  265-269:  312- 
314;  326-327;  355;  375;  377; 
378-3S1;  412-414;  415;  421;  428; 
430-432;  434-435;  457-458;  404- 
465;  468;  472-473;  491-492;  502- 
503;  516;  544-545;  616-617;  028; 
629-630;  630-631;  644-646;  649; 
651-652;  to  Johnson,  128;  to 
Shelbv,  135-136;  551-552;  to  gen- 
eral Hull,  191-192;  plan  north- 
v.'estei*n  campaigii,  390*;  to 
BTajor  Swearimren,  492;  702; 
706;   724-726;  727-728. 

Selby,  James,  263. 

Senecas,  509. 

Seneca  To^\ti,  536. 

Severns,  John,  Jr.,  65*. 

Shacklet,  Major,  234. 

Shackleford,  Major,  462.  . 

Shane,  Anthony,  238*. 

Shane's  Crossing,  238*. 

Shank,  John,  287. 

Sharp,  Phidilio,  732. 

Shaw,  John.  33;  43. 

Shawnees,  22;  27:  39;  50*-53;  50: 
60;  61;  6G:  76:  96;  125;  186: 
208;  402;  509;  532;  534;  631; 
636;  638;  639;  042. 

SheafTe,  Major   General,  618;   019. 

Shecoha,  578. 

Shelbv,  Gov..  91*;  95-96;  98;  99; 
245;     201-202;     306;    385;    S90; 


401;  403;  404;  420;  430;  451 
466;  474;  492;  537;  539;  541 
546;  547;  548;  549;  558;  560 
561;  563;  564;  566;  570;  576 
621-622;  046;  701;  752;  to  secre- 
tary war,  111-116;  505-506;  to 
Thomas  Buford,  119;  to  Hopkins, 
120-121;  123;  131-132;  to  citi- 
zens of  Kentucky,  121-122;  to 
quartermaster,  132-133;  to  pay- 
master, 133;  to  Clay  and  South, 
135;  to  Harrison,  153-155;  192- 
193;  224;  345-346;  353;  392- 
395;  398-400;  414-415;  420-421; 
508-509;  513-514;  518-520;  521- 
522;  532-533;  567-569;  624-025; 
646-647;  656;  to  James  Blair, 
15S-159;  to  Col.  A  to  Z  Ky. 
Militia,  50.3-504;  to  Militia,  504- 
505;  to  president,  649-651;  to 
Posev,   659-600;    663. 

Shields,  Capt.  Patrick,  282;  283; 
572. 

Shields,  W.,  307. 

Shields,  Joseph,  498. 

Shipp,  Ensign   Edmund,  437;   512. 

Shipman,  Stephen,  285. 

Sholes,   Capt.    Stanton,   484. 

Short,  Cvrus,  323. 

Short,  Isaac,  287. 

Short.  Lt.  Col.,  509. 

Shoults,  Frederick,  15*;  287;  376; 
572;  667;  679;  682;  692;  693; 
694. 

Sidnev,  John  P.,  327. 

Silver  Heels,  229. 

Silver  Heels  Towi,  248. 

Silver  IMines,  717. 

Simmons,  Capt., 

Simpson,  John,  158. 

Simpson,  Joseph,  322. 

Simpson,  William,  323. 

Simrall,  Col.  James,  145*;  170; 
172;  253;  254;  256;  258;  200; 
265;  270;  289;  292;  304;  549; 
576. 

Sioux,  59;  236;  640. 

Six  Medals,  692. 

Skilly,  Corp,  Robert,  263. 

Small,  John,  41. 

Smart,  374. 

Smilev,  Major  James,  531;  620. 

Smitl),  Col.  Alexander.  506;  015. 

Smith,  Scrgt.  Byrd,  204. 

Smith,  James,  203. 

Smith,  John,  29;  287;  564. 

Smith,  Richie,  287. 

Smith.  Capt.  Richard,  250;  289; 
321;  586. 

Smith,  Samuel,  323. 

Smith,  Col.  Thomas,  589. 


770 


INDIANA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Smith,  Sergt.  Thomas,  263. 

'  Smock,  Jacob,  Jr.,  20. 
Sinocke,  Abraham,  20. 
Smock,  Jacob  Scnr.,  20;  28. 
Smytho,   Gen.  Alexander,  21)(;=''. 
Snelling,  Capt.,  4;  0;  9-10;  12;  21; 
24-2.5;   26;  40;  44;  to  Harrison, 
15-16;  31-82;  37-39. 
Snodgra.ss,  Samuel,  287. 

South,  Samuel,  135. 

Sparks,  Daniel,  750. 

Sparks,  Eliiah,  to  Harrison,  552- 
553;  Major,  279. 

Spencer,  Thomas,  107*. 

Split  Log,  220. 

Spy,  British,  81. 

Stannard,  Dr.  Hugh,  456;  480. 

St.  Clair,  Gen.,  710. 

Stevens,  James,  287. 

Steele,  David,  264. 

Stewart,  Sergt.  James,  382. 

Stewart,  William,  285. 

St.  George,  Col.,  361. 

Stickney,  Boiiamin  F.,  44;  77; 
175*;  181;  189;  578;  to  Har- 
rison, 53-55;  164;  to  secretary 
war,  56;  68;  69. 

St.  Mary's,  149-150. 

Stockton,  Ensign  John,  437. 

Stoddard.  Amos,  129;  Mai.,  137; 
155;  173*;  193;  221;  416:  417; 
419;  421;  435;  439;  446;  447;  4.53. 

Stone  Eater,  15;  31;  57;  83;  578; 
718;  742. 

Storm,  Corp.  Andrew,  J.,  286. 

Storm,  Jack,  279. 

Storm,  John,  20:  286. 

Storm,  Peter,  287. 

Storv,  Subaltern  Lt.,  319. 

Stout.  Daniel,  277. 

Street,  Joseph  U.,  731. 

Strickland,  Corp.  Joseph,  286. 

Stuart,  William  D.,  287. 

Stucker,  David,  287. 

Studabaker,  David,  286. 

Sturgeon,  David,  278. 

Sturgeon,  Robert,  277.  -• 

Suear  Creek,  232.  :   '.;: .  . 

Sullivan,  Lt.,  234. 

Sullivan,  Judge  Daniel,  661. 

Swany,  Robert,  285. 

Swoaringcn,  Major  James  Strode, 
492. 

SjTTimes,  118*. 

Tahhon,  or  Hoata,  579.  ' 
Tarn,  John,  203.  '     '      ■  ' 

Tawa  Town,  148;  152*;  244;  250; 

388. 
Tawas,  574. 
Taylor,  Hancock,  498. 


Taylor,   Hubbard,   246. 

Taylor,  Gen.  James,  100;   119*;  to 

Harrison,  12-1-128. 
Taylor,  Col.  Richard,  281*;  234. 
Taylor,  Waller,  11 ;  745. 
Taylor,   Zacharv,  49;   56;   70;   8S; 
89;   Cant.,  133;   Maj.,  171;   227; 
234;  498:  609;  709;  to  Harrison, 
82-83;  134;  150. 
Tecumseh,    14;    18;    27;    50*;    59; 
62;   76;   82;   93;   102;   209;   252; 
262;    450;    474;    512;    576;    598; 
639;  641;  671;  750-754;  to  Ehot, 
60-61;  speeches,  541-543. 
Temarois,  038. 
Terrell,  Roll,  323. 

Territorial  Council,  to  Gibson,  351. 
Tessier,  362. 

Thompson,  Capt.  James,  257;  289. 
Thompson,  Maior  David,  564. 
Thorn,  Sergt.  John,  286. 
Thorn,  Col.  Allen  B.,  723. 
Tiermans  Creek,  24. 
Tippecanoe,  Battle  of,  3;  5. 
Tipton,   Gen.   John,   73;   278;   281: 
745-750;  Journal,  62-65;  to  Gib- 
son, 409-411. 
Tipton,  Spear,  S.,  756. 
Tobinibee,  578. 
Todd,  Cliarlev  L.,  246. 
Todd,    Capt.    Charles    Scott,    564: 
612;    750;    752;    755;    on    Har- 
rison's conduct,  566*. 
Todd,  TiLajor  George,  436;   531. 
Todd,  John,  329. 
Todd,  Thomas,  91*. 
Ton-uiies,  Sergt.,  436. 
Tonehadfonr-.  578. 
Tour,  John,  323. 
Tremble,    David,   91;    Major,    493; 

533;  578;  596;  613. 
Trigg,  Maj.  William,  531, 
Tr;mble,  Col.  Allen,  174;  190;  505; 

508;  519. 
Trotter,    Capt.    George,   248;    253; 
257;    259;    260;    264;    289;    292; 
General,  561;  564. 
Trotter,  George,  Jr.,  163*. 
Trotter,  Lt.,  289. 
Trumbo,  Jacob,  287. 
Tupper,     General     Edward,    152*; 
164;    173;    174;    179;    184;    185: 
210;    223;    227:    250;    335:    336; 
356:   367:   to  Harrison,  167-172; 
205*-207;  216-221=^. 
Tupper.    Samuel,   to   Perkins,   202- 

203;  206. 
Turner,  William,  19. 
Turtle,  33. 
Turtle's  To\vn,  149. 
Tyler,  Gov.,  749. 


HARRISON:     MESSAGES  AND  LETTERS        771 


Ulmer,  Gc-rge,  285. 
Undenvood,  Edmund,  323. 
Urbana,  159. 

Vallonia,  34*;  275. 

Vance,  Major,  G20. 

Van  Cleave,  David,  20. 

Vanderburgh,  Judge  H.,  4. 

Vanranssalear,  Gen.,  178;  296. 

Varvel,  Abraham,  287. 

Ventioneer,  James,  287. 

Viel,  James,  323. 

Vincent,  Brig.  Gen.,  429;  471;  590- 

594;  599-600;  602. 
Vinsant,  John,  323. 
Vorhies,  Mai.  Peter  Gordon,  141; 

518;  525. 

Wadsworth,     Gen.     Elijah,     173*; 

183;    188;    189;    191;   203;   204; 

207;  213;  215;  268  to  Harrison, 

182*. 
Wagaw,  578. 
Waggener,  Lewis,  20. 
Wagishgomet,  578. 
Waitaishoo  Na  Wa,  578. 
Walk  in  the  Water,  537;  573;  579. 
Walker,  Col.  George,  564. 
Walker,  Jeremiah,  322. 
AValker,  John,  578. 
Wallace,  George,  181. 
Waltz,  Lt.  David,  249;   253;  258; 

259;  260;  263. 
Wapaghkennetta,  239. 
Warbarton,  Col.,  560. 
Ward,  Annstead,  323. 
Ward,  John,  323. 
Ward,  Thomas,  323. 
Wardle,  Corp.  Robert,  284. 
Warren,  Lt.,  260;  264;  /idjt.,  289. 
Washburn,  Capt,  234. 
Watkins,  Sergt,  Jonathan,  284. 
Watkins,  John  L.,  744. 
Watson,  Simon  Zelotus,  472. 
Watters,  Henry,  264. 
Wavne,   Gen.   Anthony,   177;    180; 

188*;  387;  671. 
Weas,  37;  49;   50*;  53;  56;   125; 

128;  175;  229;  577;  579;  637; 
-     6G8;    677;    691;    696;    697;    719; 

721;    723;   724;   727;    728;   731; 

7-^i;    737;    740. 
We;,  i  hers,  Thomas,  285. 
Webb,  233. 

Webster,  Thomas,  264. 
Welch,  Capt.,  8. 
Wells,  Ensign  Levi,  372. 
Wells,  Capt.  William,  14;  18;  53; 

68;  70;  87;  99;  165;  to  secretary 
,  war,  21-22;  27;  33;  34;  to  Har- 
•'     risen,  70-78. 


Wells,  Col.  Samuel,  85;  111;  138; 
140;  141;  144;  145;  149;  156; 
291;  297*;  306;  332;  335;  339; 
353;  435;  478;  503;  531. 

Wends;iw,  Thomas,  287. 

Westfall,  Newton,  E.,  40*. 

Wheaton,  Capt.  Joseph,  406;  434; 
450;  455. 

Whistler,  I\Iaj.  John,  390;  446. 

Vv^iitaker,  Daniel,  287. 

White  Loon,  229. 

White  Oak  Springs,  72. 

While  Pidgecn,  16;  24;  174;  190; 
231. 

^^^lite  Raccoon,  175*. 

While,  I\Iaj.,  140;  contractor,  156; 
176;  184;  236;  248. 

Whitelev,  Elam,  286. 

Whitlock,  Capt.  Ambrose,  350;  407. 

Wilcox,  Col.  Joseph,  88;  89*;  131; 

Wilcox,  Col.  Phillip,  193;  224;  233; 
602-603. 

Wilkinson,  163*. 

Wilkinson.  Brig.  Gen.  James,  377* ; 
415;  541;  545;  595;  C15;  706. 

Wilkinson,  Sergt.  Joshua,  286. 

Williams,  Daniel,  282;  285. 

Williams,  Sergt.  Josiah,  284. 

Williams,  V.eecc,  285. 

Williams,  Capt.  Samuel  L.,  319; 
323;  329. 

Y»lHiamson,   Lt.   Oliver,   319;   374. 

Wilman,  trumpeter,  289. 

Wells,  John  D.,  246. 

Wills,  Judge  John  S.,  advocate, 
419;  427. 

Will  son,  Henry,  263. 

Wilson,  James.  285. 

Wilson,  Martin,  285. 

Wilson,  Walter,  Col.,  15*;  32;  to 
Gibson,  354-355;  408;  613*;  64S; 
685. 

Winchester,  Gen.  James,  90;   105 
106;    108;    109;    110;    115;   117 
121;    141;    145;   149;    152;    153 
1C7-168;    17:;    176;    178;    179 
205;   211;    21:0;    227;   240;    241 
246;   247;    250;   291;   294;    297 
300;    315;    317;    318;    331-332 
335;   337;    339:    340;    353;    361 
362;     367:     421;     467;     general 
orders,    160;    orders    to    Tupper, 
168-172;   1.0  Harrison,  314;   315- 
316;   325-326;   to  secretary  v^-ar, 
327-329. 

Winchester,  Ft.,  459. 

Wingate,  John,  to  Harrison,  463- 
464. 

Wingate,  Thomas  S.,  104;  309; 
general,   534. 

Winemac,  see  Winimac. 


772 


INDIAXA  HISTORICAL  COLLECTIONS 


Winimac,  44;  247. 

Winlock,  Gen.,  120;  to  Gibson, 

•    123. 

Wiiniebagocs,   4-5:    14-16;    25: 

41;  49;  50^^;  53;  55;  56;  58 

6G;  77;  96;  165;  176:  232; 

274;  360;  555;  609;  677;  72: 
Winston,  Lt.  William  0.,  4S5. 
Wise,  Tlnoma.',  2S7. 
Wittinuton,  Thomas,  264. 
Wolf,  637. 
Woukema,  578. 
Wood,  Capt.  E.  D.,  205;  220; 

435;    439;    Maj.    Engineer, 

541;  547;  564. 
Wood,  Thomas,  323. 
Woodfolk,  Capt.  John  H.,  372. 
Woodson,  Obediah,  323. 
Woodward,  Augustus  B.,  874. 
Woollev,    Major    Abram    E., 

731. 


122- 

27; 

61; 

236; 


403; 
531 ; 


453; 


Worley,  Lt.,  628. 
Worthington,  Thomas,  97*;  99. 
Worthinglon,    Gen.    Thomas,    103; 

108. 
Wright,  J.  A.,  105. 
Wright,    Sergt.  -James,  263. 
Wright,  Noah,  274. 
Wright.  William,  287. 
Wvandots,  35;  50-53;  56;  OS;  97*; 

301;   362;   387;    401;   419;    509: 

526;    532;    555;    573;    577;    579; 

631;  630;  637;  638. 

Yellow  Beaver,  742. 

Yeo,  Sir  James,  544;  584. 

Yunt,  Jacob,  20. 


Zenor,  Jacob,  62^' 
Zink,  John,  270. 


63;  64. 


V^'  ^-