COLONEL GUY JOHNSON
Painting by Benjamin West, Mellon Collection,
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C.
THE PAPERS OF
SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON
*//
Prepared for publication by
MILTON W. HAMILTON Ph.D
Senior Historian
The Division of Archives and History
ALBERT B. COREY Ph.D
Director and State Historian
VOLUME X
531716
If. ix- Si
ALBANY
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
1951
IIS
mi
CONTENTS
Volume X
PAGE
Illustrations v
Preface vii
Chronology of Daniel Claus ix
The Seven Years' War 1
The Indian Uprising 618
m
ILLUSTRATIONS
Colonel Guy Johnson Frontispiece
Painting by Benjamin West, Mellon Collection, National Gallery of Art,
Washington, D. C.
PAGE
General James Abercromhy 2
Painting owned by Major R. W. Duff, Scotland. From J. C. Webster, ed.,
Journal of Jeffery Amherst (Chicago, 1931).
Plan of the Forts at the Oneida Carrying Place 42
From original in British Museum.
John Butler 1 00
Portrait by an unknown artist. In the Canadian Archives.
Montreal in 1 760 1 90
Engraving in J. C. Webster Collection, New Brunswick Museum, St John,
New Brunswick
Certificate used by Johnson in Presenting Medals to Indians 254
From New York Historical Society
Plan of Fort Niagara 320
Taken from that of M. Pouchot, the builder. In Documents Relating to
Colonial History of the State of New York, X:976.
General Henry Gladwin 380
Engraving from the portrait by John Holland. In Charles Moore, The Northwest
under Three Flags (1900).
General Frederick Haldimand 408
Painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds. Courtesy of Mrs W. L. Haldimand,
Westmount, Quebec.
Thomas Flulchins' Map of 1762 522
Illustrates his Journal of April 4-September 24. Courtesy of Henry E. Hunt-
ington Library.
General Thomas Gage 788
Painting by John Singleton Copley. Courtesy of Mrs Frederick S. Moseley,
Boston, Mass.
John Montresor's Map of Detroit in 1763 870
Courtesy of William L. Clements Library
PREFACE
This volume covers the period from September 1 758 through
December 1 763, inclusive. Thus it deals with the campaigns and
diplomacy of the French and Indian War, with Pontiac's Con-
spiracy, and with many matters pertaining to the settlement of the
Peace in America. It parallels Volume III and a part of Volume
IV of the Johnson Papers, supplementing and filling out the picture
of those years. These documents illuminate the part played by
Sir William in placating and controlling the Indian tribes, espe-
cially the Six Nations of Iroquois, and clarify his wise policy
as contrasted with that of Lord Jeffery Amherst, the British
Commander-in-Chief for most of the period.
The contents of this volume have come from these principal
sources : the Amherst Papers in the Public Record Office, London,
England; the Indian Records and Claus Papers in the Public
Archives of Canada, Ottawa; the Gage Papers in the William
L. Clements Library, Ann Arbor, Michigan ; the Loudoun Papers
in the Henry E. Huntington Library, San Marino, California;
Wheelock letters in the Dartmouth College Library; the New
York Historical Society; the Massachusetts Historical Society;
and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. A number of other
libraries and collections have supplied smaller numbers.
Through such collections, missing letters and documents, some
formerly listed in the Johnson Calendar and known only by copies,
or lost in the fire of 1911, are now presented.
Much new material has been obtained from the Canadian
Archives, where the several volumes of Indian Records are often
in the hand of Sir William or of his secretary, Guy Johnson ; and
many copies of documents which were enclosures with reports or
letters have been included as a legitimate part of the Johnson
papers. In a few cases more complete copies, or variants, are given
vn
of letters published in earlier volumes ; and a few of the original
documents of the New York State Library, somewhat damaged
by fire, are given in the mutilated form.
As in earlier volumes, the location or ownership of all documents
is given, and the generous help of many persons, too numerous to
mention, is hereby acknowledged with sincere thanks.
The great bulk of the papers printed in this volume was collected
prior to 1939. The papers were transcribed and annotated by
Dr. Almon W. Lauber under the general editorship of Dr.
Alexander C. Flick. Since that time much new material has
been discovered and added to this volume and those that are to
follow. This volume has been thoroughly reviewed and edited by
Dr. Milton W. Hamilton who has checked every item against the
original.
ALBERT B. COREY
Director, Division of Archives and History
and State Historian
vm
Chronology of Daniel Claus
IX
DANIEL CLAUS
Chronology
Mil
Sept. 13
Born at Benningham, Germany.
1749
Autumn
Arrived at Philadelphia.
1750
May
Set out with Conrad Weiser to
visit Iroquois country.
Summer
Visited Rhinebeck, Schoharie,
Fort Hunter, Fort Johnson,
Stone Arabia, and German
Flatts.
Sept.
Reached Onondaga.
Oct. 1 (
about)
Left Onondaga.
Dec. 1 (
about)
Returned to Philadelphia.
1750-1752
Dec, 1750 to
Spring
of
1752
Lived in Philadelphia.
Spring
Went to Canajoharie.
1754
1755
June and July
Summer
Spring
May 7
May 15-21
Resided at Fort Johnson.
Returned to Canajoharie.
Present at Albany Congress.
Visited Philadelphia with Mo-
hawk deputies.
Lieutenant in the Indian service
and interpreter and deputy
secretary of Indian affairs.
Wrote to Johnson for Mohawk
sachems.
At Indian meeting at Fort John-
son.
August
August 9
Sept. 4 (?)
Sept. 8
Nov. 16-25
1755
Dec. 30
1756
Feb.
Sir William Johnson Papers
June 21 -July 4 At Indian meeting at Mount
Johnson.
At Indian meeting at Mount
Johnson.
Set out for Lake George in com-
pany with Indians.
Reached Lake George;- at Indian
council there.
Participated in the battle of Lake
George, under General John-
son.
Scouting on Lake George.
Accompanied Johnson to New
York City.
Attended congress with Oneidas,
Tuscaroras, and others, at Fort
Johnson.
May (?) Visited Philadelphia with Six
Nations Indians.
Attended Indian congresses.
Lieutenant in the 60th or Royal
American Regiment.
At Indian congresses.
At Indian congress.
With Johnson in Indian congress
at Canajoharie.
In battle at Niagara.
At conference with Mohawks.
Oct. 1 (about) Deputy Superintendent of Indian
Affairs in Canada.
1761 July 6 Captain in the 60th or Royal
American Regiment.
May, June, and
Nov.
Dec.
1757
April and June
1759
April
April 4-22
July 24
1760
March 20
Chronology of Daniel Claus xi
1 762 Jan. 30 Attended General Gage's pro-
ceedings with Caghnawagas at
Soult St. Louis.
July 1 0 Requested leave from Amherst to
quit his commission in the 4th
Battalion of the Royal Ameri-
can Regiment.
July Married Nancy Johnson.
Fall Corrected new edition of Indian
Prayer Book.
1 763 July Ordered to hold a conference with
Canada Indians.
July 27-Sept. 12 Held Indian congress at Caghna-
wagey.
1 765 April-May Attended Indian congress at John-
son Hall.
1765 May 8 Witnessed treaty with the Dela-
wares at Johnson Hall.
1 766 July 23-3 1 Assisted at a treaty with Pontiac
at Oswego.
1 767 Returned to Canada for a short
time.
1 768 Feb. 1 8 Colonel of militia.
March Attended Indian congress with
Canada Indians and Cherokees
at Johnson Hall.
Fall Attended congress at Fort Stan-
wix.
1770 July Attended Indian congress with
Six Nations, Canada Indians,
Cherokee Indians and depend-
ent tribes, at German Flatts.
xii Sir William Johnson Papers
July About to return to Canada.
1771 July At Indian congress with Six
Nations at Johnson Hall.
1 773 April At Indian congress with Six
Nations at Johnson Hall.
1 774 April, June- July,
and December At Indian congress with Six
Nations at Johnson Hall.
Sept. 15 At congress of Six Nations, at
Johnstown, the Indians request
that he be continued as their
agent.
1 775 Jan. and Feb. Attended Indian congresses with
Six Nations at Guy Park.
June 1 Departed from Mohawk River
home for Canada.
July (about
middle) Reached Aughquisasne.
July 1 7 Held Indian council at Caghna-
wagey.
Sept. Sent to Caghnawagey to allay
fears of Caghnawagas that
their town was to be destroyed.
Nov. 1 1 Embarked for Europe.
1 776 and
early 1 777 In England.
1 777 March 3 Left London.
June 1 Reached Quebec with commission
as deputy superintendent of
Indians, and with instructions
to bring the Indians to cooperate
with the British in the campaign
of that year.
Chronology of Daniel Claus xiii
June 5 (about) At Montreal.
June 23 Left Lachine.
June 25 (about) Reached Buck Island.
July 8 Appointed superintendent of In-
dians for expedition of Briga-
dier General St. Leger against
Fort Stanwix.
July 23 Reached Oswego.
July 26 Left Oswego.
August 2 Fort Stanwix invested by St.
Leger's expedition.
August 20 Intended to accompany Sir John
(about) Johnson in attack on the Mo-
hawk River country, but was
forced to abandon this plan.
August 22 Retreated from Fort Stanwix with
St. Leger's force.
August 26 Reached Oswego.
Sept. 8 (about) At St. Johns (near Lake Cham-
plain) on way to Canada.
Oct. 1 6 At Montreal ; criticized St. Leger
for not making use of certain
information, and blamed the
Fort Stanwix failure on this.
Nov. 6 At Montreal ; stated that Sir Guy
Carleton disliked his (Claus')
appointment.
Reported destitution of Molly
Brant. Criticized Colonel John
Butler's conduct and expenses;
criticizes Sir Guy Carleton's be-
havior.
XIV
Sir William Johnson Papers
1779
August 20
Oct. 22
Attended conference of General
Haldimand at Quebec, with
deputies of the Five Nations.
His property in New York for-
feited to that State, under act
of the State Legislature of that
date.
1781 Jan. 11
At Quebec.
March 3
At Montreal
Sometime
after 1 783
Returned to
remuneration for his losses.
1787
Died at Cardiff, Wales.
SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON PAPERS
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Df.1
Camp at Lake George2 Sep: 8th. 1758
Sir
By some Private Letters just come to my Hands, it seems
Col°. Bradstreet has proved successful in his Enterprize;3 But as I
have no Letter from him, tho' the others are very circumstancial, I
cannot give all that Credit to them, that is necessary for to make
them authentick; But if this Intelligence, as I hope may be de-
pended upon, which You will best know from some of Your
Indians, I must beg the Favor of You to sunder out a Couple of
the most trusty to send across the Country, to B. Forbes,4 with the
Account and Particulars thereof, as his knowing of it, as early as
possible, is very essential, and may be of very great advantage to
H. M's. Service in the Operations carrying on to the Southward.
I am &c.
INDORSED:
To Sir Wm. Johnson
Sep. 8, ! 758
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library. Copy in Public Record Office, W.
O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Named St. Sacrement, in 1646, by Father Jogues; renamed Lake
George, in 1 755, by Sir William Johnson.
3 Colonel John Bradstreet was the commander of the British and colonial
expedition which, on August 27, 1758, brought about the capitulation of
Fort Frontenac, the important French bastion which controlled the traffic
on Lake Ontario, and which protected the French supply-line to the upper
country. Fort Frontenac was on the site of the present city of Kingston,
Ontario, and was at or near the place called, by the Indians, Cataracoui
(Cataraqui).
4 Brigadier General John Forbes came to Halifax in 1757 as colonel
of the 17th. Regiment of Foot. In December 1757 he was made a
brigadier general and was adjutant general to Lord Loudoun until
March 1 758. At Pitt's order he commanded the expedition against Fort
Duquesne, which was surrendered November 24. He died March 11,1 759.
2 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L.S.1
Fort Johnson 10l\ Sep'. J 7 58
Sir
I received your favour2 with the Warrant3 for a £ 1 000 Sterlg.
for the Indian Service.
Last night I received a Letter4 from Governor Denny & another5
from Govr. De Lancy, Copies of both which I herewith transmitt
to your Excellency.
As to Govr. Dennys Invitation,0 it leaves me scarce time to
be there in Season, besides I have some Doubts whether my
Attendance would be as consequential as General Forbes & Mr.
Denny seem to imagine, and as I have no one to supply My
place here, Whether my presence in this Quarter & at this Juncture,
may not be more advantageous to His Majestys Indian Service in
General than my Presence at this Meeting.
I refer myself hereon to Your Excellencys Directions as I
look upon myself to be under the Orders only of His Majestys
Commander in Chief. T
1 am
Most respectfully
Sir Your Excellencys
Most Obed1. hum Serv*
To His Excellency Wm. Johnson
Major General Abercromby &ca.
INDORSED:
Sir William Johnson
Fort Johnson 1 0 September 1 758
Rthe 12*.
Ansd. same day.
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Dated Aug. 20, 1758. See Johnson Papers, 9:969.
3 Dated Aug. 20, 1758. See Johnson Papers, 2:888.
4 Denny to Johnson, Aug. 30, 1758, Johnson Papers, 2:890.
5 De Lancey to Johnson, Sept. 3, 1 758, Johnson Papers, 2:894.
6 To attend the Indian conference at Easton, September, 1758.
GENERAL JAMES ABERCROMBY
Painting owned by Major R. W. Duff, Scotland.
From J. C. Webster, ed. Journal of Jeffery Amherst (Chicago, 1931).
Seven Years' War
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Df.1
Camp at Lake George J2l. September, 1758.
Sir
I am just now favor'd with yours of the 1 0th. when [at the same
time J received]2 I likewise received Intelligence, "That the five
Nations, in general, had promis'dtojoin Mor. Longeuil,3 with 2000.
Men against the Mohawk River, & to meet him at Oswego about
the 25th. Instant, and that there were about 500, Utawawas4 at
Montreal for this purpose; that they were first to meet at Fort
Frontenac,5 there to be joined by some Messasagas, & to take
thier provisions Artillery & Stores, for the Enterprize; and that
it appears, the whole of the five Nations, are so much in the
french Interest, that we may expect having their principal [In-
terest] Force against us in a short time, — tho' not openly." — The
reduction of Fort Frontenac, Our building a Fort at the Oneida
Carrying Place, and [no mention] your taking not the least
notice of any such Intentions or Designs of the five Nations,
make me hope, that Nothing But prudence and precaution cou'd
[give foundation to] authorize such a Report; but as it behoves
Us to be on Our guard, [& to prevent] as well as to forecome
such measures, if they are in the least intended, which (from
your Influence [with & connections] over the Indians, [& your
Connections with them we can by virtue of] or Your Connections
with them thro' Means of Your Department,) none can more
easily discover than yourself, I beg that You will immediately
Enquire into it, and [make me a] report [of them] to me how You
find them disposed, and what Number You Judge woud Join Us
against the Enemy, when called upon either your Way or this,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. Another copy is in
the Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
8 Paul Joseph le Moyne de Longueil.
4 Ottawas.
5 Cadaraqui, Cataraqui, on side of present Kingston, Canada.
4 Sir William Johnson Papers
which may [be] soon be the Case; For these Reasons I do not
think it prudent [that] for you, [should at this time at just
present] at present, to be absent, especially as you [yourself]
have no one on the Spot, that can Supply Your place, [whilst]
and that Mr. Croghan, who I doubt not is fully authorized
and instructed by you for the purposes he was sent upon, is, and
has been at Easton [& could, I should thin!?, by virtue of those
Instructions & appointments] for some Time, besides, were you to
set out upon the receipt of this Letter, you must come after the time
appointed for the proposed Meeting, which, tho' you do not men-
tion it, I suppose you have taken Notice of to Governor Denny &
Lt. Govr. De Lancey.
o W7u t I am &ca.
to Sir wm. Johnson
indorsed :
To Sr. Wm. Johnson
Sep'. 1 2*. 1 758.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L. S.1
Fort Johnson, 1 7th Sepr. 1758.
Sir
Yesterday Evening I was honoured with yours of the 1 2 Inst.2
As to the Intelligence which you have receiv'd, & of which You
are pleased to give me an Extract, thus far in general I am no ways
doubtfull of it — That the French had formed a Plan of penetrating
down this River with a considerable Body of Troops, & Artillery
& in which a Number of Indians would have joined them; that for
this Enterprize they had ready the Artillery, Provision, Stores, &
Indian Goods, which Col. Bradstreet found, destroyed & brought
off from Fort Frontenac. of this Design you may recollect Sir,
I gave you repeated Informations which I received from the
Indians, who universally spoke of it with apparent Anxiety & full
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Ante. p. 3.
Seven Years' War 5
Conviction. But that the 5 Nations in General did promise to
join in this Enterprize, I do not beleive, and that 500 Ottawawas
were at Montreal for this purpose seems to me somewhat im-
probable, as I am persuaded that would be a very improper place
to assemble them at for an Enterprize this way, & that the French
are not such absurd Managers to call them so far out of the way on
this Occasion, when Niagara, or Cadaraqui, was so much more
proper. Neither do I believe the French could at any time this
Summer have prevailed on so many Ottawawas to have joined
with them.
This Scheme of the French I suppose is for this year rendered
impracticable by Col. Bradstreets Success.
Now it appears that the whole of the 5 Nations are so much in
the French Interest that we may expect having their principal
Force against us in a Short time, tho not openly, as your Informa-
tion words it — is what I have no lights to judge by.
With regard to the late & present Disposition of the 5 Nations,
unless it be some of the Farther Castles of the Senecas &
Chenosio,1 I beleive very few, If any of that Nation would have
joined the French against us, but on the Contrary would have
befriended us. Neither do I think the Cajugas would have stired
against us, I am fully convinced the Principles & Endeavours of
their Chiefs are to preserve an exact Neutrality for their Nation.
One of the Chief Men at Onondaga did I am informed, & beleive,
accept the French Hatchet for the five Nations last Year at
Montreal, & for which he has been severely reprimanded by the
Chiefs of the other Nations, & they have disavowed his conduct
to me with every appearance of Sincerity. This Man, with those
of his People who are under his Influence might probably have
joined the French as he is still I suppose under that Influence.
The Oneida Castle at the Lake are mostly I believe in the French
Interest, tho their Chief Warriors declare to the Contrary. Some of
the other Oneida Castle & some of the Tuscaroras might have
joined the French, but the Major part I am persuaded would not,
& are not disposed to be our Enemys.
1 Genesee Senecas.
6 Sir William Johnson Papers
From every Circumstance by which I an able to form a Judge-
ment, I think your Information of the present Disposition of the 5
Nations in general to be groundless & without reason. Amongst
many others, their readiness in Delegating some of their Chief
Men to the Meeting at Easton, is I think a proof in their favour.
I have now at my house Severall Seneca Indians from Chenosio
sent down to inform me that Deputies are gone near six weeks ago
from their Nation to severall Nations of Western Indians, to
animate them to fall upon & destroy the french Settlements at
Detroit, the River Sl. Jerome1 & Illenois & the hither part of the
Mississipi & on the return of these Deputies I am promised to be
Inform'd of their Success. I am of opinion the Destruction of
Fort Frontenac, of the Vessells, Provisions &c there will fix the
5 Nations firmer to our Interest, & tend to destroy what Interest
the French had amongst them.
Tho from all that I am hitherto able to form a judgement of
the Disposition of the 5 Nations, my Opinion of them is, as I have
above given it, yet upon the Information you have transmitted me, I
shall be more particularly Attentive to Obtain the most speedy
6 best Intelligence I can of what lately passed between Monsr.
Langeuil & the 5 Nations when he was at Oswego, tho I am of
Opinion his negotiations extended no further than to the dis-
affected amongst the Onondagas & Oneidas. Upon my making
any Discoverys of Moment, you may depend on having them
immediately transmitted to you.
I am suspicious some strong Scalping partys of the Enemy may
speedily fall upon some of the Settlements on or near this River,
between the German Flatts, & Schenectady, this does not arise
from any Intelligence I have received, but is a matter of Meer
Opinion. As to what number of Indians I think would join us
against the Enemy either at Lake George or this way. Provided
I have a months time given me, & can purchase the requisite
particulars for fitting them out, I think I can promise for between 2
&300. — I could upon earlier notice have stopped the Young Mep
1 Now the Wabash River.
Seven Years' War 7
a great Number of whom are gone from the Indian Settlements on
the Susquahanna River to the Meeting at Easton. & some parties
wh. are gone out to War into Canada, & are not expected back
within this Month. Arms I have not one left, Blanketts which
will be a necessary Article, there were none lately either at New
York, or Albany. I have Given Captn. Funda1 Orders to purchase
what Indian Arms, & some other goods he can get at the Carrying
place, out of the Plunder bro1. from Fort Frontenac, when it is
to be disposed of. Possibly I may have the above number of
Indians ready within a Month, & perhaps a greater number,
but you know Sir last time, tho I did everything in my power, I
could not join you within the time I expected, & both as to time, &
numbers with Indians, it is scarce possible to act with strict punctu-
ality. Arms and Blanketts I am affraid of being distress'd for,
however I will, when I receive your Directions do the best I can.
I am
most respectfully
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient & most
humble Servant.
Wm. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major Genl. Abercromby.
indorsed:
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
Fort Johnson, 1 7th Septr. 1 758'
R the 1 9th, ansd. same day.
Jelles Fonda.
8 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Df.1
Camp at Lake George, September 19th. 1758
Sir,
I glad to find by Your Letter of the 17th. Ins1.2 that from
every Circumstance, by which You are able to form a Judgment,
You think my Information of the present Disposition of the 5
Nations in General to be groundless & without Reason ; and that,
provided You have a Months Time Given You, & can purchase
the requisite Particulars for fitting out Indians You think You
can promise for between two & three Hundred. On the other
hand I am very sorry that it [will require so long a time]3 is the
Want of Arms and Blanketts, which Occasions Your requiring
so long a time to Collect and Equip them in; [and] I always
Imagined You wou'd have a Stock of those Things by You, to
answer any Emergency, and I am still hopefull You will be able,
to procure them in less Time ; the five Battns that are coming to me
from the Eastward, Part of which are already arrived at Boston,
from when they are to march by Land, [will be with me I reckon
in three Weeks, and as soon as they Join me,] if it is found
practicable, I propose to proceed with them down the Lake
[wherefore I flatter myself you will be ready by that time] And
as You cannot but be Sensible of the good Effects that may result
from being attended with a number of Indians on that Service, I
doubt not but you will Exert Yourself to the utmost [of] in getting
them ready by that Time.
As I suppose You have Communicated to Brig. Gen. Stanwix4
1 In Public Record Office W. O. 34, Vol. 38. Another copy is in
the Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Ante p. 4.
3 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
4 Brigadier General John Stanwix came to America as colonel of the
62d Royal American, Regiment, afterwards known as the 60th. He was
first put in command of the Southern District of North America, with
Seven Years' War 9
your Suspicions of a strong Scalping Party of the Enemy speedily
falling upon some of the Settlements on or near the Mohawk river,
between the German Flatts and Schenectady, [/ he will certainly
use his endeavours to prevent any mischief ensuing] I hope, if this
Suspicion shou'd prove true, he will be so well on his Guard as
not only to prevent all mischief, but also to give a good Account
of the Enemy, his Strength being far Superior to any Scalping
Party, [the enemy] they are, I think [are] able to bring that Way.
if you have not already imparted this surmise to Brigr. Stanwix, I
beg You [would] will do it immediately upon the receipt hereof.
Silver heels, with two more Senecas came here some Time
Since, & went out with an Ensign of the 44th. in order to get a
Prisoner from Tienderoga, but [the enemy were so well on their
guard that] being discover'd they were obliged to return without
any; they returned home yesterday.
And on Sunday Capt. Dick with nine Mohawks likewise came
into Camp with a design to try what they can do; according to
Custom they got so intoxicated at there War Dance, that they
are not sober yet.
I am, &ca.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L.S.1
Fort Johnson, 22 Sepr. J 758.
Sir
I have the Honour of your Excellencys Letter of the 1 9 Inst.2
and in Consequence thereof I shall enter upon the best measures in
my power for collecting all the Indians I can prevail onto join
you, & this within as short a time as possible.
headquarters at Carlisle, Pa. Appointed Brigadier General, December
27, 1757, he was then relieved by Brigadier Forbes, and was ordered
to Albany, and from there to the Oneida Carrying Place, where he
erected a work called in his honor Fort Stanwix.
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Ante. p. 8.
10 Sir William Johnson Papers
You may remember Sir I did propose to My Lord Loudoun to
send for a proper assortment of Indian Goods1 which might be
ready against any Emergency, and which I told him would be
a saving scheme to the Crown, his Lordship seemed to approve of
my Proposal & I have him the List of a proper assortment, but I
heard no more of it. If you think it would be an Adviseable
Measure I can send to London for an Assortment this Winter
which I may have in time next spring against the Campaign Opens,
had I Blanketts & Guns, I am apprehensive it would be near a
Month before I could join you with the Number of Indians I
mentioned. Arms I am affraid cannot be got, & if I cant get
Blanketts in time, I will endeavour to satisfie them with strouds2
tho they will be out of season unless the present fine Weather
should continue. I will send to the Indians to bring down all the
Arms they can muster among themselves & for which I will pay
them. When I applied to you for a Warrant for the last £ 1 000
I was in advance & I proposed the remainder for the Current
Service. Upon this occasion I shall want an Additional Fund
& you will please therefore to send me a Warrant for £2000
more.
I have not yet done it, but as you judge it proper I shall
this day acquaint Brigr. Stanwix with my suspicions that some
Scalping Parties of the Enemy may make some Attempts this
way. I had Stone Arabia particularly in my mind when I men-
tioned this, as we have no troops there. As to the Oneida Carrying
place, I am not apprehensive they can do more there, (if they are
carefull) than perhaps steal a man or two according to Custom.
I am sorry Silver Heels3 was unsuccessful, & that Captn. Dick
& his Party behave so 111. Rum they cannot resist, & it flows every-
where in Plenty. I dread its Consequences when the Indians come
1 See Johnson Papers, 2:898.
2 A coarse blanket or garment used in the Indian trade; apparently
from Stroud, England.
3 A Seneca Warrior, known as Half King.
4 Of whom Johnson once bought a gun — Johnson Papers 3:152; and
whom he called "a sincere friend of the English," 3:157.
Seven Years' War 1 1
down hither, & while it is to be bought, there is no remedy, from
hence chiefly will arise my Vexation, & Delays.
You may Sir be assured that both as to the time of my joining
you and the Number of Indians no Endeavor of mine shall be
wanting to render it as Expeditious & Satisfactory as the Nature of
the Service & Circumstances will admitt.
I am with great Respect
Sir, Your Excellencys
Most Obedient &
Most humble Servant.
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major Genl. Abercromby
indorsed:
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson 22, Septr. 1 758.
R the 25th, Ansd. the 26th.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Fort Johnson 23 September 1758.
Sir William Johnson having Yesterday received a Letter from
Major General Abercromby accquainting him with his Design of
proceeding with His Majestys Troops down Lake George &
directing Sir William to muster all the Indians he could in order to
join him within 3 Weeks if possible. Sir William hereupon having
sent for the chiefs of the lower Mohock Castle & they coming this
Morning, held a Meeting with them, The Belt a Seneca Sachem
& the Chiefs of 6 Chenossia2 Indians who were at Fort Johnson
at this Juncture to whom he made the following Speech, which
with the Belts of Wampum therein mentioned was agreed to be
transmitted thro the several Nations by Two Chiefs of the Chen-
ossia Indians & Deputies from the Two Mohock Castles, who were
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Genesee Senecas.
12 Sir William Johnson Papers
to deliver it in Sir Williams Name to the 6 Nations at their
respective Castles.
Bretheren of the Six Nations.
I am very glad to find some out of each of your Castles joined
Col. Bradstreet & the Troops under his Command in the late
Enterprize against Cadaraqui, and I congratulate you on the
extraordinary Success it was attended with; for as that Fort is
now demolished your Country is so far freed from the Fetters
of the French & they cannot now from thence alarm you by any
hostile Preparations. I hope you will prevent them from en-
croaching again upon you, by never suffering them to rebuild this
Fort where a number of your Ancestors were treacherously &
cruely Massacred.
Gave a white Belt.
Bretheren
I have received the Generals Directions to join him at Lake
George as soon as possible with as many Indians as I can prevail
on to accompany me.
Bretheren
I hereby therefore invite You to run down hither without delay
in order to march with me & join His Majestys Troops Assembled
at Lake George, and as it hath pleased God very lately to bless
our Arms & deliver Cadaraqui into our hands, in which good
Work several of our Bretheren of the Six Nations assisted, I
hope he will also give a Blessing to our further Attempts from Lake
George, by which both you & we may hereafter enjoy our
Country in Peace & Security, and I hope on this Occasion you
will all rise up & come down without delay to march with me
upon this good Design.
Bretheren
The Season of the year requires that no time be lost, I shall
be ready to march with you as soon as you come hither, and as I
now call you down to go immediately upon Action, I must desire
Seven Years' War 13
that your Women & such of your old Men as are not able to run
fast & bear the Fatigues wch. will be necessary may defer coming
down hither till another Opportunity, when I shall be glad to
see them for at present we must think of nothing but War.
Bretheren
I desire that every Man will bring his Gun with him. At the
Onieda Carrying Place you will receive Provisions for your
Journey hither where you will find a Person to take Care of you.
Bretheren
You have now an Opportunity to show yourselves Friends to
the English, all you that are such & are able to come, I expect
will run down without Delay; and all those who now join His
Majestys Arms will be considered & treated as Friends &
Bretheren to the English, not with their Lips only but in their
Hearts also.
Bretheren
By this Belt I call on you to comply with the Invitation I now
give you & to Show yourselves Men & Friends to the English
by your Actions. You have often told me you are Light of
Body & can move fast, now show your Bretheren the English
that you spoke Truth when you said so. —
Gave a large Black Belt painted
24 Sepr. — Sir William set off with the Indian Messengers for
Connajohary in order to get some more Indians from thence to
carry the above Speech thro the Nations.
14 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JELLES FONDA
Contemporary Copy1
[Oneida Carrying Place, Sepf. 25, 1758.]
Extract of a Letter from Cap1. Jellas Fonda to Sir William
Johnson bearing date from Oneida Carrying Place 25 of Sepr.
1 758.—
"Last Night came here 6 Seneca Indians from Chenossia,2
who says that when they came by Cayouga they heard that the
French were assembling at Sweegachie,3 the Cayougas further
said that they had left 4 Men in Sweegachie to watch their Motion
where they were going to, and when they found they were
acoming this way will give us here timely Notice thereof. '
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Contemporary Copy*
Camp at Lake George 26l September . 1758.
Sir
That we may not be deprived of the Assistance of as many
Indians as you will be able to Collect, if it shou'd be found
adviseable and Practicable to proceed down the Lake again
this Fall, I herewith send you the Warrant5 for £2000. wanted,
you say,6 to enable you to procure the requisite Particulars for
fitting them out; with which I am hopeful you will, notwith-
standing your Apprehensions to the Contrary, have it in your
Power to collect them much sooner than within a Month, as I
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Chenussio, Geneseo.
3 Oswegatchie, Ogdensburg.
4 In Henry E. Huntington Library. Copy also in Public Record
Office W. O. 34 Vol. 38.
5 Among Johnson manuscripts, destroyed by fire. See Johnson Cal-
endar p. 97.
6 See Johnson to Abercromby, Sept. 22, 1 758, ante p. 9.
Seven Years' War 15
propose, if the Troops, now on their March from Boston, arrive
here by the Time it is Expected, (which will be about the 12th.
of next Month) to embark immediately thereafter, no Time
being to be lost at so advanced a Season of the Year ; wherefore
if you are certain of not getting them by then, I shou'd think it
wou'd be needless to put the Crown to so large and needless an
Expense; but of this you are the best Judge.
I must likewise observe to you, that the last Supplies of Money
from York, what with Subsistence and Contingencies, have been
near exhausted, and that Mr. Mortier1 is gone down for a fresh
Supply ; therefore, I must desire you, if you can get a short Credit
for the Things you have to purchase, that you will delay present-
ing the above Warrant, untill you hear of Mr. Mortier's return
to Albany, unless your Payments are to be made at New York,
in which Case you may send it down when you please.
There is no Manner of Doubt, that Sending for a proper
Assortment of Indian Goods from England, must be a very
great Saving to the Crown; why they have not been sent out, I
know not; but, I shou'd think you would do well, to send a List
of those wanted in your Department, to the board of Trade,
who, upon a Representation from you, setting forth this Saving,
will certainly not fail to lay the Same before his Majesty; and
receive his Commands thereupon to your Satisfaction.
The Steps you have taken to procure Arms, which it seems
you are deficient in, is a very proper one; We have Arms in the
Stores at Albany, but I am afraid they will not answer your
Purpose, if you think they will you shall have them.
As you have acquainted Brigr. Gen. Stanwix2 with your Suspi-
cions of some Scalping Parties of the Enemy making some
Attempt upon Stone Arabia,3 I trust and am Confident he will
have the Precaution, to frustrate the Designs of the Enemy, for
which he has certainly a sufficient Strength.
Notwithstanding my Orders, forbidding any Liquor being
1 Abraham Mortier, deputy paymaster.
2 Brigadier General John Stanwix.
3 North of the Mohawk, about fifteen miles west of Fort Johnson.
16 Sir William Johnson Papers
given to the Indians, they still continue to have it without my being
able to find out where or from whom; This has occasion'd a
Continual Scene of Drunknenness among them; They went out
one Day with a Design, as they said, of going to Tienderoga, but
they returned under Pretence of Sickness before they got half
Way ; the Day before yesterday one went out with Rogers, whom
he also left and returned to Camp, in less than 24 Hours; there
are only four of them left, who propose to go out by themselves
to Night, The Six others returned home yesterday, and I Suppose
will make heavy Complaints of having been beat; So Soon as
I heard it, I caused Enquiry to be made into it, and I find, that
being encamped with the Rangers1 and having Drunk together
they fell to Handy-Cuffs, but no great Mischief ensued.
I am [Sir] &ca
Sr. Wm. Johnson, Bart.
INDORSED:
To Sr. William Johnson
Sep : 26th, 1 758.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L.S.2
Fort Johnson, 30th Sepr. J 758.
Sir
I am honoured with yours of the 26 Inst.3 inclosing Your
Warrant upon Mr. Mortier for £ 2000 on Acco1. of the Indian
Service. I will buy the goods I shall want upon my own Credit
& keep the Warrant by me untill Mr. Mortier returns to Albany
with whom I will adjust the Payment as convenient to him as
I can. —
1 Rogers' Rangers.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 Ante. p. 14.
Seven Years' War 17
I am certain the Senecas & Cajuga Indians cannot possibly
come down so as to join You by the time you mention, and
therefore I think with your Excellency that it would be throwing
a needless Expence upon the Crown to bring them hither espe-
cially as I expected a considerable number of the former Nation
would have come, and this being now the Hunting Season with
the Indians for Deer, those who are hindered from it will expect
to be considered for that Disappointment.
I am getting Messengers ready to send off to the said Indians
in order to stop them from coming down on the call I have given
them & who will be in time to prevent any Inconveniences, and
I will send such a Message as I hope will make the Stopping
them turn to good account. —
I shall put every thing forward in order to join you at the Lake
in due time with all the other Indians I can muster, but if your
Excellency should find affairs so circumstanced that Indians will
not be necessary, the sooner I know it the more I shall be able to
lighten Expences, as every day from the time they leave their
Castles will be Attended with Considerable Charges.
I am sorry Captn. Dicks Party has given you so much trouble,
as I mistrusted the Consequences if they touched at any of our
Encampments in their way out. I directed them & they promised
me to proceed thro the Woods without halting at any of our
Posts. Your Excellency may hence see in Miniature how my
Patience is tried when I am surrounded by large Bodies of them;
rum to be had almost at every house & out of my Power to
repress its sale. My Neighbors at the Mohawke Castle are almost
incessantly Drunk, old & Young, and in short such in General
is the Debauchery of the Indians by Rum as greatly impedes &
disconserts all my Management of them.
As life & limb is safe. I am glad the Sotts got a good drub-
18 Sir William Johnson Papers
bing at Lake George, I dare say they deserved it, & this I shall
tell 'em if they make any Complaints to me.
I am
Most respectfully
Sir
Your most Obedient
& most humb,e Servant,
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major Genl. Abercromby &ca.
INDORSED:
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson, 30t September 1 758.
R the 2d October. Ansd. 6th.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L. S.1
Fort Johnson, 30 Sepr. 1758
Sir
Mr. John Latteridge2 who last year commanded a Company
in the Service of this Province, and in which he was a Lieutenant
from the beginning of the present war, offered his service to me
on the opening of this Campaign to go out with the Indians. As
I knew him to be a Young Man who had shown Resolution,
was a good Woods-man, known to & liked by many of the
Indians, I accordingly employed him, & have found he answered
the Character I had conceived of him.
He went with Col. Bradstreet upon his late Enterprize to Fort
Frontenac, and I have understood, for I have not since seen the
Colonel, that he was very much pleased with Lutteridge's Be-
haviour & promised that he would make favourable mention of
him to your Excellency, that he might be some way provided for.
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 John Lottridge, though spelled, as in this letter, in various ways.
Seven Years' War 19
I think he is most calculated for the Indian Service, & that to
retain him therein will be for the advantage of the Department,
upon this Account I beg leave to recommend him to Your Ex-
cellency for a Captains Commission.
I write Col. Bradstreet upon this Subject & desire him to
report Mr. Lutteridge's Conduct & Behaviour to You whilst
he was under his Command.
This Provision for Mr. Lutteridge will not entail any addi-
tional Expence on the Indian Service, as I propose when I have
the pleasure of seeing you to take your Directions about some
Alterations therein.
I am
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obed*. & most
humble Servant.
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major General Abercromby.
indorsed:
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson, 30: September, 1758.
R the 3rd October, Ansd. 6th
FROM JELLES FONDA
Oneida Station 30th Sep'. 1758
Sir
Yesterday Ottrawane2 Came here, & Brought With him a
Belt of Wampum, & a few lines you Give him as a Token, as
you'll see Inclos'd, to bring News of an Armey Comming this
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library ; enclosed in Johnson to Abercromby,
Oct. 3, 1758, post, p. 21.
2 A Cayuga head sachem.
20 Sir William Johnson Papers
Way, & that they now are Asembling at Oswego. Ottrawane
farther Says, that the French has Sent Belts of Wampum thorow
out all the Five nations, for them to meet the armey at Oswego,
& the Englishman a Cayuga Sachem, & Sevrall others out of
that Castle, parted with Otterawane at the three Rivers, & are
Gone to have a Treaty With the French at Oswego. The French
have Threatened to destroy the Five Nations for not bringen
intilegance of that Colon. Bradstreet Was to goe to Caderoque,
I am of Opinion this news Will but a stop to a Great meany
Indians, Comming Down, the Oneida's has promised me to Come
down to morrow, I've Bought no goods Since I recd. your letter,
nor is here any to be bought, for Colo". Delaney1 & Colon.
Gleaser has Boug*. as much as they Cold get & the Sutlers has
Sent down What they Bought, CoK Gleaser has made me an
offer of the Goods he boug*. but I think they are at a very Extrav-
agant price.
I Will not Buy them Without your farther Order
I am Sir
Your Dutifull Serv*.
Jellis Fonda
To The Honb1. SlR WlLLIAM JOHNSON Barr*.
P S I am Taken very Bad with the feaver & ague
I intend to go down in a few days
INDORSED:
Captn. Fonda to Sr. Wm. Johnson Bart.
Oneida Station 30l. Sept'. 1 758
1 Col. Oliver DeLancey, brother of Lieut. Gov. James DeLancey,
who commanded the New York Contingent.
Seven Years' IV ar 21
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Fort Johnson 1 October 1758. —
In consequence of a Letter Sr. Wm. Johnson reed from General
Abercromby bearing date the 26 [Sepr. 1758] Ult°. accquainting
him that such Indians as could not join the Army at Lake George
on or about the 1 2 Octor. had better be stopped from proceeding
from their Castles. Sir William this day dispatched Silver Heels
& another Seneca Indian to the Cayougas & Seneca Indians
accquainting them that as they could not be down in time to join
the Army, he desired they would not set off at this Juncture as
they could not possibly come hither time enough to march with
him & the rest of their Bretheren. with these two Expresses Sir
William sent Capt John Butler to see them past the Settlements
& by him sent Instructions for Cap*. Jellas Fonda at the Onieda
Carrying Place with regard to the Onieda & Tuscarora Indians
to come down with them by the latter end of this Week.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L.5.2
Fort Johnson, 3d. Oct'. 1758
Sir
I have just now red'd the Inclosed Letter3 from Captn. Fonda,
the lines he mentions as a token which I gave to Ottratvana & he
brought with him & gave to Fonda with the Belt of Wampum,
you have also a Copy of.
This Ottrowana is one of the Principal Sachems of the Cayuga
Nation, an Indian who hath always distinguished himself in
favour of the English. The Englishman likewise mentioned in
the said letter is another Chief of the Cayouga Nation & the
most leading Indian amongst them, he was some time ago down
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 Fonda to Johnson, Sept. 30, 1 758, ante p. 19.
22 Sir William Johnson Papers
here and promised me, that he would keep a good look out on
the motions of the French, and that when he was fully assured
the Enemy were in Motion towards this part of the Country he
would take care to send me the most speedy & early Intelligence
of it in his power with a Belt of Wampum. The Belt of Wampum
now sent is a large one. Upon all these Accots. I persuade myself
a Body of the Enemy is in Motion towards these Parts, but
whether they are a body strong enough & provided with Artillery
in order to attack our Troops at the Carrying place, or whether
they have some other Scheme in View, is what I am in doubt
about. Brigr. Stanwix to whom doubtless Mr. Fonda has com-
municated this Intelligence tho he does not mention it, will I
suppose send out Partys to or towards Oswego upon Discovery.
The said Cayouga Chief called the Englishman has constantly
favoured a Neutrality amongst his People, and when he was
down here, he told me he should abide by that System of Con-
duct, and assured me in the most fervent Terms, that he would
never break with the English, but maintain inviolable to the
utmost of his influence, a Strict friendship & Alliance with us,
consistent with that Neutral Scheme which he had always thought
& did think was the most proper & prudent Conduct for their
Nation to observe in the present Hostilities between us & the
French.
From the Character I have conceived of this Man & the other
Chiefs of the Cajuga Nation, I cannot yet bring myself to beleive,
they will enter into any Treaty with the French inconsistent with
the Neutrality they have avowed. Nor that the 6 Nations Na-
tionally considered will join with the French in any Attack upon
us, however we may probably soon be able to form a determinate
Judgement hereupon if a Body of the French are gathered at
Oswego with an Intent to make a Descent upon this part of the
Country, and I shall continue to communicate all such Intelligence
as I receive on this Subject to Your Excellency.
I am afraid as Mr. Fonda observes that this News will prevent
the Oniedas & Tuscaroras from coming down hither in order to
march with me & join you at the Lake, at least so many as I
Seven Years' War 23
otherwise expected: however unless I have your Orders to the
Contrary I propose to set off from hence in order to join you
with all the Indians I can get, beginning of next week.
I am
most respectfully
Sir
Yr. Excellencys
Most Obed1. humble. Servant
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major Genl. Abercromby.
indorsed :
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson 3d. October 1 758
R the 6*.
Ansd. same day.
FROM HORATIO GATES
Contemporary Copy1
Oinede2 Station 4lh October 1758
Sir
I am Commanded by His Excellency Brigadier General
Stanwix to acquaint you that Lieut Tiebout, of the New York
Regim*. is Just return'd from a Scout to the Oineda2 Lake, and
Reports that he Discover'd Yesterday Evening about Five oClock,
a Body of about Four Hundred of the Enemy, in ye. the First
Bay, upon the North Side of the Oineda Lake, upon the Beach,
Marching this way, he is of Oppinion that one Half the Party
were Regular Troops, as he says he could plainly discover their
Uniform, The other Half he takes to be Canadians & Indians.
He has further Inform'd the General that [*/iei?] the Enemy
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol- 39 ; enclosed in Johnson
to Abercromby, Oct. 6, 1 758, post, p. 26.
2 Oneida.
24 Sir William Johnson Papers
had not any Packs, or Bagage, from which he concludes them
to be either the Advanc'd party of a More Respectable Body,
or only A strong Scout Sent to Distress our Working Party's,
Cutt of Some of Our Provision Convoys or Some of the Posts
or Settlements, upon the Mohack River. The General has there-
fore Commanded me to forward this to you open, that ye Com-
manding Offrs. at the Several Posts and Inhabitants on the
Mohawke River, May be prepar'd to give the Enemy a proper
Rec[e]ption. A Number of Scouts, are gone Different Paths
to Make further Discoveries of the Enemy, whose Reports I
shall endeavor to acquaint you with, Mr. Buttler is here, with
the Three Mohawke Indians, The bearer, one that is Sick and
that is just gone on a Scout with Four Rangers, there are no
Indians here but those above Mention'd, The Oinedas had
Promis'd Cap1 Funda to be here this Night but are not yet Come,
I am
Sir
your Most obedient
Humble Servant
Horatio Gates Major of Brigade
To
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
FROM PETER WRAXALL
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 5. Octr. 1758. —
Sir
This Afternoon Silver Heels & another Seneca Indian whom
Sir Wm. sent Express the 1 Inst to the Cayouga & Seneca Na-
tions, returned & made the following Report.
That on their arrival at the Upper Onieda Castle they found
the Indians there in a Council & being called in, & having told
them upon what Errand they were sent to Cayouga & Seneca,
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library, in the handwriting of Peter Wraxall.
Seven Years' War 25
The Onieda Indians acquainted the Messengers, that they had
according to the Generals Request at Lake George kept a look
out in order to make Discoveries of the Motions & Designs of
the Enemy, in consequence whereof they had just now rec'd
Intelligence that a large Body of French were assembled at the
Fish Creek on Lake Ontario, who expected to be joined by a
great Number of Ottowawa Indians from Niagara. That they
had heard 5 Cannon fired from that part of the Country towards
the fish Creek — That the French had spoke with great Resent-
ment against all the 6 Nations except the Cayougas for joining
the English in the Destruction of Cadaraqui, and had sent a
Message to the Cayougas to come & meet them in order to have
a conference with them, and that they understood Some of the
Cayouga Sachems with about twenty of their Young Men were
set off to meet the French. — and they had further understood
that it was agreed by the Cayougas that they would express
their Disapprobation of the French passing thro the Country of
the 5 Nations with any Army, if such was their Intent, and tell
them it would have 111 Consequences. That upon this News, the
Oneidas & Tuscaroras thought it absolutely necessary for their
own Security to stay at home & keep themselves on their Guard
against the Event of this Intelligence, that they Earnestly Request
a Strong Reinforcement might be without Delay sent up to the
Onieda Carrying place in order to make a Stand ag*. the At-
tempts of the Enemy.
And hereupon they gave Silver Heels a Belt of Wampum to
confirm to Sir Wm. Johnson the foregoing Intelligence & to en-
force their request that more troops might be sent up. and that
they would send off his Belt of Wampum to the Cayougas &
Seneca Indians by Messengers of their own, & desired Silver
26 Sir William Johnson Papers
Heels & the other Indian would immediately return to Sir Wm.
with their Message & Belt.
A true Copy from the Original
Minutes
Peter Wraxall
Secy p. In. Affs.
INDORSED:
Silver Heels Report
5 Octo'. 1 758. —
Enclosed in Sir Wm. Johnsons of the 6'.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L. S.1
Fort Johnson 6 Oct. 1758
Sir
I transmitted you the 3d Inst a Letter2 I had then received
from Captn. Fonda with a peice of Indian Intelligence.
Inclosed I now send you the Report3 of Silver Heels & another
Seneca Indian which I received Last night, and also Captn. Gates's
Letter4 I this Morning reced by an Indian Express.
I have ordered the Militia of this part of the Country to march
& meet me at Fort Hendrick.5
As these several peices of Intelligence confirm each other,
I apprehend you will think it necessary for me to remain in this
Quarter of the Country, at least for somedays, in order with the
Militia & the Indians I can gather together, to contribute our
best Endeavours toward the defence thereof, this I propose to
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Fonda to Johnson, Sept. 30, 1 758, ante p. 19.
3 See Wraxall to Johnson, Oct. 5, 1 758, ante p. 24.
4 Horatio Gates to Johnson, Oct. 4, 1 758, ante p. 23.
5 At Canajoharie, on the Mohawk River, about 55 miles west of Albany.
Seven Years' War 27
do and shall wait your Excellencys farther Orders upon joining
You. I am
most respectfully
Sir Your Excellencys
Most Obedient humbl. Servant
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major General Abercromby
INDORSED :
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson 6f. October 1 758
R the 8*.
Ans 13*.
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Df}
Camp at Lake George 6l. October 1758
Sir
[/ was just going to acknowledge the receipt of your trvo Letters
of the 30K and inform You, that from the Intelligence Col.
Bradstreet had obtained & which he gave the greatest Credit to,
the Enemy were intent on striding a Strode on the Mohawk
River, for which purpose I] 2
As I now find I shall not have any occasion here for the Indians
[on that side] I required you to hold in readiness, I give you
the earliest notice in my power but I must observe to You at the
same time, that [this ought by no means to] altho' they are not
necessary here, they will be so in your parts if Lieu1. Col. Brad-
streets Intelligence proves true, and he seems very Confid1. of
its being beyond all doubt, that the Enemy intend a stroke against
the Settle- upon the Mohawk River; You [should therefore lose
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Words italicized and enclosed in brackets are crossed out on the
manuscript.
28 Sir William Johnson Papers
no time] will therefore immediately upon receipt thereof Appoint
Mr. John Lutteridge, Captain of Indians; the Character he bears
from You & Lieu1. Col. Bradstreet (who had recommended
him before I received Your Letters) [is sufficient to convince me
it must be for the good of the Service & that] Entitles him to this
reward for his past Services, especially as it can be Effected
without entailing any Additional Expence on the Indian Service
in which [We shall] you propose [to settle when we next meet,
or when I shall postpone making out the Commission] make some
Alterations to that purpose when we next meet, as it will make
no difference to postpone making out the Commission I shall
deferr it till then.
So soon as You have Appointed Capt. Lutteridge You will
send him with two trusty Indians of the Six Nations to Oswego;
keeping a little Wide on the North Side of the Oneida Lake &
Onondaga river, so as to Strike Oswego near the Fort that stood
on the East Side; if they see nothing going on there, they are
to return to the Oneida Carrying Place by the falls along the
banks on the North side of the Onondaga rivers & of the Oneida
Lake. You will order them to sett out for the Carrying place &
shew their Instructions to Brigr. Gen1. Stanwix, who on his part
will send out other Scouts, and by that means we shall perhaps
be able to come at the truth of this Intelligence & by a timely
discovery, of the Enemys designs, be so fortunate as to frustrate
them.
Just as I had wrote the foregoing the post bro1. me your favor
of the 3d. Instant, [which] Confirming [the] Lieu1. Col: Brad-
streets Intelligence before mentioned; which I hope Brigr. Gen'.
Stanwix has been informed of. I write to him by this Oppor-
tunity, recommending constant Scouts being kept out, particularly
the foregoing which You will likewise order to be performed by
Cap1. Lutteridge as above ; if this affair should turn out anything
Serious, it will afford You an Opportunity of knowing our foes
from our friends & [enable Us to Act differently from what we
have done hitherto, but not to trust entirely to the faith of Indians,
which I am afraid is not the most sound. I shall order a Battn. of
Seven Years' War 29
regulars to reinforce Brigr. Stamvix.] Authorize Us to take other
measures with them than heretofore, as it is very essential not to
be lulled a Sleep by them whilst they are Circumventing us [every
where] at pleasure, which Lieu1. Col: Bradstreet says he can
well prove ; in order to put a timely Stop to this as well as to ward
off any blow the Enemy might under such Circumstance offer to
strike, I have given orders to a Regim1. of regulars to Join Brigr.
Gen1. Stanwix forthwith, & more Shall be ready if [in case they
are] found necessary, to Strengthen them.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
Fort Johnson./.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 9ih. Octob'. 1758
Sir
Last night late I return'd from Fort Hendrick where upon
receiving a Letter from Brigadier Stanwix that the late Alarm
had prov'd a false one I Discharg'd the Militia.
I expect the Conajoharee Indians of Scohare, and Some
Delawars are Already come, and Several of the Five Nations
who were Accidentaly here propose Marching with Me. The
Oneidas and Tuscaroras upon the late Inteligence they rec'd
of the French Assembly at Lake Ontario, are I find Determin'd
not to leave their Castles, which they say in case of their absence
wou'd lay expos'd to the Enemy who they Still think will [make]
an attempt somewhere upon that part of the Country.
I expect to March with near 200 Indians, and shall Join you
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
30 Sir William Johnson Papers
either Saturday or Sunday at farthest, unless I shou'd receive
your Directions to the Contrary.
I am with great Respect
Sir
Your Excellency's Most obed*.
and most humble servt.
William Johnson
His Excellency Genl. ABERCROMBY
INSTRUCTIONS FOR JOHN LOTTRIDGE
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson, Oct' 10, 1758.
You are to proceed with the Three Indians I have spoke to,
from hence to the Onieda Carrying place, where you are to Show
these your Instructions to Brigr. General Stanwix.
In your way thro the Settlements & at the Oneida Station
you are to use your best Endeavors to keep the Indians who ac-
company you Sober, as much as you can from any Intercourse
with other Indians and from everything which may tend to retard
your Journey, and as you are on your part to observe Secrecy
with regard to your Destination to all Persons except General
Stanwix, so you are to prevent as much as you can the Indians
from discovering the same.
When you have General Stanwix*. Permission to proceed —
'You are to set off to Oswego observing to keep a little on the
North side of the Onieda Lake & the Onondaga River, so as to
strike Oswego near the Fort which stood on the East side — if
you see nothing going on there you are to return to the Onieda
Carrying Place by the Falls along the Banks on the North side
of the Onondaga Rivers & of the Onieda Lake"
You will exert yourself & animate the Indians with you to
fulfill these Orders with regard to your Route, with the utmost
Punctuality, & be Dilligent & exact in your Observation & Dis-
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
Seven Years' War 31
coveries as Circumstances will admit of; and you will use the
whole extent of your Influence over the Indians, to whom I have
given the most solemn charge in my power, to aid & assist you
in this peice of Service, without being deterred from the same
by any Difficulties or Apprehensions of Danger, less than such
as will be justifiable upon the severest Examination
If General Stanwix Should think proper to prescribe to you
any particular Exceptions to your Compleating this Service in the
manner these Instructions describe & direct you therein, you are
to obey the same.
On your Return you will make a Report of your proceedings
& Discoveries to Gen. Stanwix & to no other person whatsoever.
Given under my hand
at Fort Johnson this 10 day
of October 1 758. —
W Johnson
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Fort Johnson 10 October 1758—
Sir William Johnson having Yesterday received a Letter2
from Major General Abercromby accquainting him that he found
he should not now have occasion for the Indians he had directed
Sir William to collect in order to join His Majestys Troops at
Lake George; Sir William on the receipt hereof sent off an Ex-
press to stop the Connojohary Indians who were on their way
down here & desire them to return to their Castle; And this
Morning he spoke to some of the Mohocks, some Oniedas &
Onondagas, the Schohary & River Indians who were assembled
here in order to have marched [for] to Lake George and gave
them two belts of Wampum.
The first a White Belt wherewith he thanked them in His
Majestys Name for their readiness & punctuality in coming
1 Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Abercromby to Johnson, Oct. 6, 1 758, ante p. 26.
32 Sir William Johnson Papers
hither on the Call given them in order to have joined His Majestys
Troops at Lake George, and hoped they would preserve the
same commendable Disposition on any future Occasion which
might occur.
The Second a Black Belt wherewith he accquainted them that
they were now at Liberty as it was their hunting Season to take
the Advantage of it, but that he would not have them go very
far from home, leave Word whereabouts they might be found
in case there should be occasion to call them together and that
they would keep a good lookout when they were in the Woods
& upon making any Discoveries of the Enemy send or bring im-
mediate Intelligence thereof, and thus so conduct their Hunts
as that they might be profitable to themselves & useful to His
Majestys Service & the Security of these parts of the Country. —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Fort Johnson 10. October 1758. —
past 1 1 at night.
Three Connojohary Indians came running with their Murder-
shout, who say they were sent off this night from near Frys2 on
the Mohock River by one of their Chiefs to bring the following
Intelligence.
That an Onieda Indian was just arrived there who says that
our Encamp1. & Fort at the Onieda Carrying Place is invested
by the Enemy so that no Messenger can come from or go thither —
and that Kinderunte3 an Onieda Sachem who with another of
said Nation being employed in some Business for the Troops,
were fired upon by the Enemy, the said Sachem killed, the other
Indian taken Prisoner & afterwards released.
These Messengers say that the above Onieda Indian Express
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Hendrick Frey's.
3 Kindarunty, alias Kayandigaro, an Oneida sachem, killed by a
scalping party of French Indians, near the carrying place.
Seven Years' War 33
was too much fatigued to proceed this night, but that he will be
here to morrow Morning, and that they were sent off in a great
hurry with the above particulars & know nothing farther.
TO A COMMANDING OFFICER OF MILITIA1
Contemporary Copy2
[Oct. 10, 1 758]3
Fort Johnson Past II oClock at Night
Wednesday ye
11th
After Peruseing the Intelligence on the other side4 you will im-
mediately deliver it to the Commanding Off r. of the two Battalions
1 Lt. Col. Jacob Glen, in charge of the militia at Schenectady,
though not mentioned in either the letter or the indorsement, is identified,
in the letter To the Commanding Officer on the March, Oct. 1 1, 1758,
post p. 35, as having been the recipient of this intelligence in an express
sent to Schenectady. Glen, who would necessarily be familiar with all
military movements in his area, would be the logical person to whom
Johnson would intrust the task of locating the mentioned commanding
officer, and of seeing that the intelligence arrived at its proper destination.
The orders that Johnson, commanding officer of the Mohawk Valley
militia, gives to Glen, his subordinate, helps to confirm Glen as the
letter's original recipient.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 This date is supplied instead of the 1 1 th, due to the fact that
Johnson received the original Indian intelligence on the night of the 1 Oth
(see Journal of Indian Affairs of that date, ante p. 32.). The probability
is small that Johnson, knowing that the intelligence was of great importance,
waited until the next night to transmit it to the proper military authorities.
The date of "Wednesday ye 1 1 th," which is given at the beginning of the
intelligence, probably was supplied by a copyist, and stands for the date
on which the copy was made.
4 The "Intelligence on the other side," is, with the exception of a few
ommissions and errors of minor importance, evidently made by the copyist,
the same as that contained in the Journal of Indian Affairs, ante p. 32, of
date Oct. 10th, 1 758; therefore, it is not repeated here.
34 Sir William Johnson Papers
of His Majestys Troops, which I expect are this night at your
Town, if not yet arrived, you will then immediately send it
forward to be delivered to the said Commanding Officer if on
his March from Albany otherwise to the Commanding Officer
of His Majesty's Troops encamped near Albany.
You will also without Delay order the Militia to hold them-
selves in Readiness to march with His Majestys Troops this
way & that they be Compleated with Ammuntion and five days
Provision.
I am
Sir
Your very humble Servant
WM. Johnson
A True Copy. Wm. Foster Col°.
INDORSED:
Intelligence from
Sr Wm Johnson
dated Wednesday
at 1 1 aclock at night
Hth Oct'. — red 12th —
Enclosed in Col : Burtons of the 1 l.1
1 To General James Abercromby. Col. Burton was evidently the
"Commanding Officer" for whose ears Johnson intended the intelligence
transmitted through Glen.
Seven Years' War 35
TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER ON
THE MARCH1
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Johnson 11th Octob' 1758
4 Clock P M
Sir
Since the Intelligence I received last night and which I sent
down by Express to Ll Col. Glenn3 of Schenecktady to be given
or forwarded to you I have heard nothing further which enables
me to judge of the truth of exactness of the said Intelligence
This I thought proper to acquaint you with & I shall without
delay transmitt you any further Accounts of moment relative to
this subject which may come to me, I wish you a fovourable
march and am
S'
Yrs&
Sign'd WM Johnson
Coppy of a letter
from Sir Wm Johnson to the
Officer Commanding His Majestys Troops
now on their March up the Mohawck River
1 Undoubtedly Colonel Ralph Burton. See Johnson Papers, 3:6-8,
especially the indorsement. Later correspondence between Johnson and
Burton confirms this.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 Lieut. Col. Jacob Glen.
36 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO A COMMANDING OFFICER1
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Johnson, 10th [Uth]*Oct". 1758.
11 O'clock at night.
Sir
This moment two Chief Indians of the Mohawke Castle
came over to my House, to Acquaint me, that the Oneida Indian
mentiond in mine of last night4 is arriv'd at their Castle, but too
much fatigud to come over here this night, that he confirms the
Intelligence I have already transmitted you with the following
additional particulars, that he left the Oneida Castle four days
agoe just as the Indian who was releas'd by the Emeny arrivd
there and made his report, who said the French Indians which
took him told him, there were about 1000 Indians in the whole
who were sent forward to invest our Fort and Encampment at
the Carrying place, that the French were coming on with Ar-
tillery, but they could not tell their Numbers, that he only
proceeded about two miles from the Oneida Castle the first night.
That the next day he heard the constant firing of Cannon till he
came as far as Capes — 28 miles from the Oneida Carrying
place when he could hear them no more, their Mohawke Chiefs
say they believe this Intelligence may be depended upon for
truth, as it is further by this Indians telling them that one of the
Scouting Parties which the Oneidas had sent out, to and about
the Lake according to my desire upon our Troops taking Post
1 Colonel Ralph Burton. The Content of this letter, like that of
"To the Commanding Officer on the March," of same date, ante p. 35,
leaves little doubt of the identity of the addressee.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 See Johnson to Ralph Burton, Oct. 12, 1758, Johnson Papers, 3:7,
for Johnson's statement that he had mis-dated this, his "previous letter,"
and that the correct date should be the 1 1 th.
4 Johnson to a Commanding Officer of Militia, Oct. 10, 1 758, ante p.
33, which was later transmitted to the commanding officer to whom this
present letter is addressed.
Seven Years' War 37
there had return'd some time before and the Indians who was
released by the French Indians came to the Castle and reported,
they had discovered a body of the Enemy Indians advancing
towards the Carrying Place. —
This Indian says there were two more Indians with Kinderunte
when he was killd one of which made his escape and got into
our Fort or Encampment.
The Indians thereabouts express themselves very ready &
willing to join our Troops, as I am confident those of the Con-
nojohary Castle will also — I have given Mr. Moncrief my
opinion for his remaining here untill the Battalions reach hither
or he recieves further orders from you I am Sir yours &ca.
Signd WM. Johnson
indorsed
Copy of a Letter from Sir Wm. Johnson to the
Commanding officer of H.M. Troops on their
march up the Mohawk River.
Fort Johnson, 1 Oth October 1 758. 1 1 at night
Enclosed in Col. Morris's of the 1 2th, N.2.
Copy of a letter from Sir Wm Johnson to the
Commanding Officer of his Majesties Troops
on their march up the Mohawke River.1
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
Fort Johnson 12. October 1758.
5 a Clock P- M.
The Report of Zacharias a Mohock Chief who was sent by Sir
William Johnson thro the Five Nations in order to call their
Warriors down to join His Majestys Army at Lake George.
That after 3 days march from hence he arrived at the Onieda
Castle & after delivering his Message to the Onieda & Tuscarora
1 Second indorsement in the hand of the copyist.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
38 Sir William Johnson Papers
Indians to come down, he was readily answered by those Nations
that they would all be ready to join the upper Nations & come
down with them.
Coming to Canaghsoragy a small Town inhabited by Onondaga
Indians about 20 Miles this side of Onondaga he delivered his
Message & was answered that they would all prepare immediately
& come down to Sir William Johnson.
At Onondaga he found but 5 Men at home all the rest were
gone to Cayhuhage at the Fish Creek where the Body of French
were lately & therefore was told he could not have an Answer
from the few at home.
At Cayouga he found but 3 at home Three large Bark Canoes
being gone to the sd. Fish Creek.
Arriving at the old Seneca Castle he called a Meeting at
which there soon assembled a large number of Men & Women,
when he delivered Sir Williams Message to them, which they all
kindly & gladly received, they soon gave their Answer, that they
were all resolved to rise up & come down, at the same time telling
him they must send Sir Williams Belt of Summons to the farther
Castle of Chenossia1 in order to call & accquaint the Senecas
living there with the same, and would have their Answer in
three days. Zacharias having a sore Leg set off immediately
homewards & was promised by the Senecas that they would soon
overtake him, in his Return he met the [Messenger] Message at
Cayouge that was sent by Sir Willian to stop the upper Nations
from coming down.
Zacharias further says, that he heard the French were very
buisy in rebuilding Cadaraqui and said they would soon have it
finished again as the English did not much destroy the Fort.2
That Jonquiere's3 Brother Senoghsias4 had marched with 400
all French to reinforce Fort DuQuesne & that he heard there were
not many Indians there.
1 Geneseo, castle of the Genesee Senecas.
2 Fort Frontenac.
3 Joncaire Chabert, a French Indian officer.
4 Senughis.
Seven Years' War 39
That the Forreign Indians were extreamely disgusted with the
French, they & their Families being quite naked for want of
Goods. That they could get but half a Gill of Powder for a
Bever Skin, that they told the French they would invite the
English to return to Oswego of whom they had always plenty
of every Article & Cheap.
That 20 Delawares passed Chenossia with heavy Packs of
Amunition & fine Guns wch. They got at Niagara in order to go to
War against the English to the Southward.1
That Two days ago in his Return he came to the Onieda Castle
where in a Meeting wth. the head Men of that Nation he was
told that the Body of French & Indians who not long ago as-
sembled near Cayhuhage or Fish Creek were returned to Canada,
the French Commanding Officer telling the Indians that he Plainly
saw he could undertake nothing against the Onieda Carrying
Place &c. at present, the Season being too far advanced. This
account was given by some of the 5 Nations who had been as
Deputies at that place with the French, and further said that the
French were actually prepared to make an Attempt this way,
but after the arrival of a canoe from Niagara all preparations
were stopped & the Army decamped. The reason of which was, as
the 5 Nations imagine, that the French could not get the Indians
to join them whom they expected from the Westward & were to
assemble at Niagara.
That the late Alarm was occasioned by a Scalping Party of
about 30 French Indians who fired upon Three Onieda Sachems
that were in the Wood near the Carrying Place fetching some
Bark to make a Hut, one of the Cheifs named Kindaruntie was
Killed, one taken but after a warm Dispute with the French Indians
they gave him his Liberty, and the Third escaped. That the
Onieda Indians were all of Opinion that the Scalping Party
was returned to Canada again.
1 From this point on, the information given repeats that of Johnson to
Ralph Burton, Oct. 12, 1 758, Johnson Papers, 3:6.
40 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM RALPH BURTON
L. S.1
Camp at Westina,2 Octo'. 12, 1758
11 oC
SR
I have received your Letter of the 12 Instant3 5 o C p:m: an
hour agoe, a Copy of which I shall forward to Schenecktady, or
Albany, for the Lt. Governors perusal, and to be forwarded on to
General Abercrombie.
The letter just now recieved from you, as you rightly observe,
not being quite Determinate. I shall march with the Troops under
my Command, for Mount Johnson to morrow, where I may
recieve from you, or Brigr. Stanwix, more certain Intelligence,
of the proceedings of the Enemy, at the Oneyda Station.
Your letter of this day, 5 oC p :m : I shall take Care Coll Glen
has the Perusal of, but as to the Dismission of the Malitia of
Schenecktady, and those above, as likewise the Indians. I look
upon them as your Department, not mine, as the intelligence has
come throw You, and you have the Command of those People.
I hope to have the Pleasure of seeing you to morrow.
I am Sr your most Obed*.
numble Servant
R. Burton
INDORSED:
Col Burton — to Sir Wm. Johnson
Westina 12. October 1758
Inclosed in Col: Burtons of same date.
Copy of a letter from Col : Burton to Sr Wm. Johnson.4
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Woestina, in present Schenectady County.
3 See Johnson Papers, 3:7.
4 In Burton's hand.
Seven Years' War 41
FROM JAMES ABERCROMBY
Contemporary Copy1
Camp at La\e George Oct: 13th, 1758.
Sir
Having, by my Letter of the 6th.2 acquainted you, that I shou'd
not, for the present, have any Occasion, in these Quarters, for the
Indians I had desired you to hold in Readiness to accompany me,
in Case it had been found adviseable to go down the Lake again
this Season, and that in Consequence of yours of the third, I had
order'd the Battalion of Highlanders, commanded by Col°.
Fraser,3 immediately to proceed on their march to the Oneida
Station, in Order to reinforce B. G. Stanwix, I therefore, upon
the Receipt of that you wrote me on the 6th.4 contented myself
with directing Col°. Burton to acquaint you, that upon the Contents
thereof, I had given immediate Orders, for the 2d. Battalion of
the Royal5 to Follow Fraser's, and to mention to you the Route,
they were directed to take, in Order to prevent being cut off, in
case the Intelligence proved true, which I was persuaded I shou'd
soon learn from you; Accordingly I yesterday at Noon, received
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Ante p. 27.
3 Col. Simon Fraser of the 78th Regiment.
4 Ante p. 26.
5 The 60th or Royal American Regiment. After Braddock's defeat the
British government decided to raise an American regiment of four
battalions of 1000 each, mainly recruited in the American colonies.
Nearly one-third of the officers were Protestants of Swiss, French,
Dutch, and German origin, who had had army training. Among these
were Henry Bouquet, Frederick Haldimand, the three Provost brothers,
and Samuel Holland. The new regiment was named a Royal American
Regiment of Foot, or the 62nd. In 1 756, the number was changed to
the 60th. Under the leadership of Lieutenant-Colonel Bouquet, who
commanded the 1st battalion, the regiment reached a state of high
efficiency. It adopted colonial methods of equipment, a simplified form of
drill, open formations, and colonial methods of warfare.
42 Sir William Johnson Papers
yours of the 9th.1 acquainting me with that Alarm having proved
a False one, and your having thereupon dismissed the Militia ; &
further, that you expected to march with near 200. Indians to
join me either Saturday or Sunday at farthest; unless you shou'd
receive directions from me to the contrary; This Letter was
agreeable to me in every Sense, but particularly on Acct. of
the Indians, which, from Col°. Bradstreet's Opinion of them, in
which he still persists, I had Reason to suspect a total Defection
of them from His Majesty's Interest, which you will own with me,
is not only very alarming, but cruel, seeing the Expense they put
the Publick to, and the little, if any, service we have been able
to get from them for it; But I will hope that CoR Bradstreet may
prove mistaken, and that not only the 200. you mention, but many
more will have joined you, gainst the Enemy, that by your last
Intelligence of the 1 1 lh, forwarded to Col°. Burton, & by him to
me, are said to have invested the Oneida Station, in Consequence
of which he himself has marched with three Companies of Gren-
adiers and light Infantry to Schenectady, in order to be at Hand
to give all the Assistance possible ; besides which he has order'd the
Three Battalions encamped at Green bush likewise to hold them-
selves in Readiness to march at the first Call ; But I shou'd imagine
there cannot be any Occasion for near all that Force, as from the
present Circumstances of the Enemy, it is not to be supposed they
are able to bring any Body of Troops against us on that Side,
equal to what we have there, & in its neighbourhood.
I am &ca.
Sr. Wm. Johnson, Bart
INDORSED:
To Sr. Wm. Johnson.
Oct. 1 3th, 1 758.
1 Ante p. 29.
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Seven Years' War 43
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Fort Johnson 14. October 1758.
An Onondaga Chief Sachem & Warrior arrived here with
several of his Party & accquainted Sir William that they were
coming down with the Red Head2 in their Company upon his late
Call to them, that Red Head was stopped by Cap*. Lotteridge
who desired him to join him in the Scout he was going upon, and
that he the said Chief proceeded hither with the rest of the Party,
he assured Sir William that he was & would remain firm to the
English Interest & that whenever there was occasion he & his
Party would rise up & join His Majestys Arms.
The 1 8 October. Sir William gave the above Chief a String of
Wampum exhorting him to continue firm & Sincere [in] to the
Declarations he had made & to use his best Influence in promoting
His Majestys Interest & Service amongst the Indians in general
& those of his Nation in particular, desiring him to have a watchful
Eye on the Motions of the French & in case he made any Dis-
coveries of Importance that he would send down Word with
the String of Wampum he now gave him
All this the said Chief promised to do. — then Sir William
cloathed him & his Party &c. as usual & took leave of them
A DEED
Contemporary Copy3
The following is a Copy of an Original Deed or Instrument
of Release of certain Lands therein mentioned given by the Agents
of Thomas & Richard Perm Esqrs. Proprietaries of Pensilvania, to
the Six Nations at a Treaty at Easton in said Province dated 23
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 A well-known Onondaga sachem, who had been the leader of the
Indian scouts with Colonel Bradstreet's expedition against Fort Frontenac.
His Indian name was Kaghswughtione.
3 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
44 Sir William Johnson Papers
of October 1 758 — and which Deed was delivered by Nickus the
Mohock Sachem to Sir William Johnson the 1 8 Novr. 1 758 . . .
This Indenture made the Twenty third day of October in the
Year of our Lord, One thousand Seven hundred & fifty eight,
Between Thomas Penn & Richard Penn Esquires Proprietaries of
the Province of Pensilvania & Counties of Newcastle, Kent &
Sussex on Delaware by their Attornies Richard Peters & Conrad
Wieser Esquires of the One part and Nickas Karaghiagdatie,
Sachem or Chief of the Mohock Nation, Assarondongas, a
Sachem or Chief of the Onondaga Nation, Sagehsadon a Sachem
or Chief of the Seneca Nation, Thomas King alias Sagughsonyont,
a Sachem or Chief of the Onieda Nation, Tohahoyo a Sachem or
Chief of the Cayouga Nation, Nihaquontoquon, a Sachem or
Chief of the Tuscarora Nation, on behalf of themselves & all
others the Six Nations of Indians on the other part. Whereas by
a Deed Poll bearing date the Sixth day of July in the Year of
our Lord One thousand seven hundred & fifty four, made at the
City of Albany in the Province of New York, Henry Peters &
others Sachems or Chiefs of the Mohock Nation, Anughuanqua &
others Sachems & Chiefs of the Onieda Nation, Otsinughyada
alias Bunt on behalf of the Onondaga Nation, Scanuraty & others
Chiefs or Sachems of the Cayouga Nation, Kakukdoden alias
groote Younge1 & others Chiefs or Sachems of the Seneca Nation,
and Suntrughwachon & others Sachems or Chiefs of the Tuscarora
Nation, on behalf of themselves & all the Six Nations aforesaid
for the Consideration therein mentioned, did give, grant, Bargain,
sell, release & confirm, to Thomas Penn & Richard Penn Esquires
Proprietaries of the Province of Pensilvania their Heirs & assigns
forever, all the Lands lying within the Province of Pensilvania
bounded & limitted as follows, namely beginning at the Kittoch-
tinny or Blue Hills on the West Bank of Susquahanna River, and
thence by the said River to a Mile above the Mouth of a certain
Creek called Cayarondinhagh (since John Penn's Creek) thence
1 Groote Junge, a Seneca sachem who was a partisan of the French.
See Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:233,262.
Seven Years' War 45
North West & by West as far as the said Province of Pensilvania
extended to its Western Line or Boundary, thence along the said
Western Line to the South Line or Boundary of the said Province,
thence by the said South Line or Boundary to the south side of
the said Kittocktinny or Blue Hills, thence by the South side of
said Hills along the said Hills to the Place of beginning, together
with the Rivers, Creeks, Islands, Ways, Waters, Water Courses,
Woods, under Woods, Minerals, Priviledges, Hereditaments &
Appurtanences thereunto belonging or in any wise Appertaining,
with all the right, Title, Interest, Property Claim & Demand
whatsoever of the said Sachems or Chiefs or any of the Six
Nations of Indians aforesaid or any Person belonging to them
of, in & to the same, To have & to hold to the said Thomas Penn &
Richard Penn their Heirs & assigns to their only proper use for-
ever, as in & by the said Deed duly executed, relation being there-
to had may more fully & at large Appear, and Whereas by an
Endorsement on the Back of the said Deed Poll, it was stipulated
& agreed by the Agents for the said Proprietaries with the Indians,
that whenever the Lands over the Appalachian Hills should
be settled, the Indians who signed the said Deed should
receive a further Sume not exceeding the Consideration Money
in the said Deed mentioned as by the said Endorsment may more
fully appear, and Whereas after the Execution of the said
Deed Poll, it was represented by Sir William Johnson & made
known to the said Thomas Penn & Richard Penn Esq", that
altho the said Purchase was fairly & openly made yet some of the
Six Nations were disgusted at it & others repented their selling it,
& insisted that they would not part with the Lands comprized in
the said Deed for which the further Consideration mentioned in
the said Endorsement had not been [maJe] paid, And whereas
the said Thomas & Richard Penn on receiving this Information
freely declared, that they should ever make it their constant
Rule to act such a part as should be of greatest use to the
Public, tho it might be prejudicial to their private Interest, and
as the Indians were not well satisfied with the Sale of those
Lands on the Ohio, they were willing to wave that part of the
46 Sir William Johnson Papers
Purchase aforesaid And Whereas to the Intent that all Causes or
pretended Causes for Uneasiness that might remain on the Minds
of the Indians, so as to prevent a perfect Union & Friendship
between His Majestys Subjects & the Indians in America, might
be removed, They the said Thomas Penn & Richard Penn Esq",
by their Letter of Attorney bearing the date the 7. day of Novem-
ber in the Year of our Lord 1 757, did constitute & appoint au-
thorize & empower Richard Peters & Conrad Weiser Esqrs.
jointly & severally their Agents Attorneys & Commissioners with
full Power & Authority to attend such Meetings as should be ap-
pointed by Sir William Johnson to be held by them with the
Indians of the Six Nations or their respective Deputies, and in
their name & behalf & as their Act & Deed to consent to surrender
& give back to the said Indians, and to execute all Necessary
Deeds Surrender & Releases & Instruments for the Actual Sur-
rendering & giving back to the said Indians all such parts of the
Lands comprized within the beforementioned Purchase Deed as
lye to the Northward or Westward of the said Appalachian or
Alleghany Hills, in such Manner as the said Proprietaries their
Heirs or Descendants or Assigns should never Claim the same or
any part thereof by Virtue of the said recited Purchase Deed,
provided always that at such Treaty the said Six Nations or their
Deputies did fully & effectualy agree stipulate & settle the exact
and certain Bounds of the residue of the said Lands included in
the said Deed, which were still to remain to the said Proprietaries
after such Surrender should be made, and did also agree that the
said Lands so to be surrendered or any part or parts thereof, if
the Indians or their Descendants should thereafter be inclined to
sell the same, should not be sold or made over, but only to the
Proprietaries of Pensilvania & to no other Person or Persons
whatsoever & did further agree to renew & confirm the former
general Engagements on the part of the Indians, never to sell
to any Person or Persons other than to the Proprietaries of Pen-
silvania for the time being any Lands within what is accounted by
the English the general Bounds of that Province as in & by the
said Letter of Attorney duly executed & proved before the Lord
Seven Years' War 47
Mayor of London to which the Great Seal of the said Province
is Affixed reference being thereto had may at large appear.
And Whereas at a Treaty lately held at Easton on the 23.
day this Instant, at which the Chiefs or Deputies of the said
Six Nations were present with George Croghan by the Appoint-
ment of the said Sir William Johnson, they the said Chiefs or
Deputies have agreed with the Aforesaid Attorneys of the said
Proprietaries to accept of the Surrender & release of that part
of the Lands comprized in the said Deed of purchase lying to the
Northward & Westward of the Alleghany Hills on the Terms
proposed by the said Proprietaries & to confirm the other part
lying on this side the said Hills to the said Proprietaries & have
settled the exact Bounds of the same according to the Lines &
Limits herein after mentioned & described, that is to say, it was
mutually agreed by & between them, that all such part of the
Lands comprized within the said Deed of Purchase as shall be
contained within the following Bounds, that is to say Beginning
at the Kittochtinny or Blue [Mountains] Hills on the West
Bank of Susquahanna River and runing thence by the said River
& binding therewith to a Mile above the Mouth of a Creek called
Kaarondinhah or John Penn's Creek, thence North West &
by West to a Creek called Buffalos Creek, thence West to the
East side of Alleghany or Appalachian Hills, thence along the
East side of said Hills binding there with to the South Line or
Boundary of the said Province thence by the said Line or
Boundary to the South side of Kittacktinny Hills, thence by the
South side of the said Hills binding therewith to the place of
begining shall be ratified & confirmed to the said Thomas Penn &
Richard Penn their Heirs or assigns forever & that all the rest
of the Lands comprized within the said purchase Deed shall be
surrendered up & released to the Six Nations.
Now this Indenture Witnesseth that the said Thomas Penn &
Richard Penn Esquires Proprietaries of the Province of Pen-
silvania & the Counties of Newcastle Kent & Sussex on Delaware
by their Agents Attornies & Commissioners Richard Peters &
Conrad Weiser Esqrs. & in consideration of the Premises & of
48
Sir William Johnson Papers
the Sume of Five Shillings to them in hand paid have remitted,
released, quit claimed & surrendered up, and by these Presents
do remise, release quit claim & surrender up to the said Nickas
Karaghiagdatie, Assaradunkqua, Sagehsaden, Thomas King alias
Sagughsonyont, Tokahoyo, Nihaquontoqush on behalf of them-
selves & all others, belonging to the Six Nations & their Heirs
& Descendants forever, All the Residue of the Lands comprized in
the said Deed made at Albany wch. are not contained within
the Lines & Limits herein last abovementioned & described any
thing in the said Deed contained to the Contrary notwithstanding
To have & to hold the same, to them & the Six Nations their
Descendants as fully & amply to all Intents & purposes as they
did, might or could hold or enjoy them before the Execution of
the said Deed so that niether they the said Thomas Penn &
Richard Penn their Heirs or Assigns shall at any time hereafter
have or claim any right Title or Interest therein by Virtue of the
said Deed as to the rest & Residue of the Lands aforesaid therein
contained shall be utterly void as if the same had never been made
in Testimony whereof the Parties to these Presents have hereunto
interchangeably set their Hands & affixed their Seals the Day
& year first above written
Sealed & De- Thomas Pen
livered (the word
Karaghiagdatie
being first inter-
lined between Line
the first &
Second from RlCHARD PENN
the Top) in the Presence of.
Geo. Croghan Depy Agent
his
Henry H M Montour
Mark
Willm. Logan
Charles Swaine
John Watson Junr.
e/3
'S
o
<
Richard Peters
Conrad Weiser
N. B. a Draught of the Land
agreed to be given up to the
Proprietaries as described in
the above Deed was afixed to
the said Deed of Surrender
Seven Years War 49
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Oct. 28-29, 1758]
Fort Johnson 28. October 1758.
Sir William went over to the Mohock Castle and cloathed
the Women & Children of the Indians living there as follows
of the Turtle Tribe 24 Women 32 Children
Bear Tribe 1 8 Women 26 Children
Wolf Tribe 22 Women 27 Children
64 85
5 more cloathed
69
Totall Women & Children 154. —
the 29. 1 4 Oniedas & 2 Senecas were cloathed.
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
L. S.2
Fort Johnson 31 K October 1758.
Sir
Upon the Receipt of your Excellencys Favour of the 6th. Inst.
I appointed Mr. Lotteridge a Captain in the Indian Service, and
sent him on the Scout you directed, ordering him to take the Rout
as described in your Letter.3 I expect him back in a Day or two,
when I shall transmit you a Copy of his Report.
I have also your Excellencys favour of the 1 3th. Inst.4 I shall
defer giving an Answer to the particulars contained in these
Letters, as I propose in a few Days to do myself the Honour
of waiting on you.
The chief Errant of this Letter is to acquaint your Excellency,
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 See Abercromby to Johnson, Oct. 6, 1758, ante p. 27, and also
Johnson to Abercromby, Sept. 30, 1 758, ante p. 18.
4 Not found.
50 Sir William Johnson Papers
that I expected some Indn. Goods, for which there was an imediate
Occasion, from Albany, and Mr. VanderHeyden who was to send
them me, and had got a Waggon, not only had that Waggon
taken from him by the Depy. Qr. Master, whom he acquainted
with the Service it was going upon, but was also refused a pass
for any other by that Officer. I must therefore entreat you
will be pleased to give a written and positive Order, that such
Waggons as may be necessary for carrying on the Indian Service,
may not be liable to be taken away by any Person whatsoever,
and that I may also be supplied with Battoes to bring up the
Goods from Schenectady, And I beg you will please to order
the said original Order to be sent me or a Copy of it. Unless
I have the Support of your Authority herein, and that none of
these Assistant Qr, Masters do presume to disobey it with Im-
punity, the Indn. Service must suffer, and so far I shall be in-
capable of carrying it on.
I should not be so earnest hereon, if the Disappointments
which have, and may arise by these Proceedings were not of real
Importance.
By Report but not from any other Authority, I hear the
present Party at my House is speedily to be relieved, if so I would
be obliged to Your Excellency, to let me know by what Corps,
I have been quite pleased with the Behaviour of the present Party,
and I will hope the same of that which may relieve them. As L*.
Claus resides here, and has formerly commanded sundry Parties
here, I am desireous he may command the Party which is to relieve
the present, if your Excellency proposes to relieve it.
I am most respectfully
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient humble
Servant
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major Genl. Abercrombie
&ca. &ca.
Seven Years' War 51
*PS. on Second thought, I Judged
it best to Send Yr. Excellency Mr.
Van Derheydens letter to Me. by
Mr. Coventry's conduct on this, and that of some others heretofore
on the like occasion, it appears, as if this department of mine was
not (by those Persons) looked upon as a part of his Majestys
Service, the inclosed letter wh. he mentions, is one from Justice
Van Eps of Schenectady to the Same purport.
INDORSED :
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart.
Fort Johnson 3 1 l. October 1 758.
R the 2d. November.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS"
[Oct. 31 -Nov. 10 J 758]
Fort Johnson 3 1 October 1 758. —
This day Ten Seneca Indians arrived, who some time ago were
coming down hither on Sir Williams Call to march with him to join
the Army at Lake George, but were stopped by him at the German
Flatts & upon his desire went with Col. Bradstreet to Cadaraqui.
Sir Y/illiam welcomed them & thanked them for their Com-
pliance with his request & the assistance they had given in the
Enterprize against Fort Frontenac & told them he expected the
Interpreter this Evening when he would speak more to them
Fort Johnson 2. November 1 758.
Sir William Johnson set off for Connojohary in order to
cloath the Women & Children of the Indians of that Castle.
Eod. die — Cap1. Lotteridge returned with the Indians who went
with him upon a Scout of Discovery to Oswego (Vid pag 299
& 300) 3 & made the following report.
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
3 See ante pp. 30-3 1 .
52 Sir William Johnson Papers
October 20 — Left Fort Stanwix in the Morning, lay that night
on the N. E. side of Onieda Lake. [Ontario]1
21 — The Indians declaring it impossible to proceed on the N. E.
side of said Lake as the Swamps & Creeks were so full of Water
occasioned by the heavy Rains that fall, we crossed the Lake in a
Bark Canoe to the fishing Place — hauled up the Canoe.
22 — Proceeded to the Three Rivers on the N. E. side
23 — Arrived at Oswego at four in the Afternoon, reconnoitred
along the E. side of Lake Ontario & lay that night 10 Miles
beyond Oswego on the Bank of the Lake
24 — Returned to Oswego
25 — Made a Raft on which we crossed to where the Trading
House formerly stood & ranged the surrounding Woods.
26 — We marched along the West side of Lake Ontario Six
Miles thro the Woods towards Onondaga Castle & lay that night
at a small Lake West of Oswego Falls 5 Miles.
27 — Arrived at Onondaga Castle was remarkably well treated
by the Indians
28 — Marched from Onondaga lay that night about half way to
Connoghsydaga.
29 — Arrived at Onieda Castle.
30 — Arrived at Fort Stanwix. I was received in the different
Indian Castles I went thro in the most Hospitable & friendly
manner, but made not the least Discovery of any Enemy, niether
the Tracks of the least Scouting Party approaching this way.
John Lotteridge
N. B. found a peice of Linnen
near where the Trading House
at Oswego stood & where our
Troops encampt on their return
from Cadaraqui by which I
judge no Enemy have been since
that way.
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Seven Years' War 53
4 Novr. — Sir William Cloathed the women & Children of the
Indians at Connojohary Castle as follows
Bear Tribe 31 Women 14 Boys & 13 Girls
Turtle Tribe 21 d°. 1 6 d°. & 1 1 d°.
Wolf Tribe 24 d°. 1 5 do. & 20 do.
Totall 76 Women 45 Boys 44 Girls
They returned thanks for the above & made Application to Sir
William for Provisions for the People of their Castle they being
quite destitute of any thing in Store. —
9 November. Sir William Johnson set out for Albany upon
Major General Abercrombys desire of seeing him there.
1 0th d°. — he waited on the General, who amongst other things
desired he would make a report to him of the present state of the
5 Nations, & particularly let him know his opinion of Colonel
Bradstreets Information to him; This Sir William did by the
following Letter —
TO JAMES ABERCROMBY
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 10 Nov. 1758
Sir
Your Excellency having desired from me a Report of the
present Sittuation of the 5 Nations of Indians with regard to
the British Interest and His Majestys Service, I will in obediance
thereto give you the best Information in my power & that with the
utmost Impartiality.
It is my opinion from all the Intelligence I have been able
to obtain, from the various Facts & circumstances which my
Transactions with these Indians on behalf of the Crown have
furnished me, — that they are not of themselves inclined to abandon
the British Interest & join the French against us. My principal
reasons for being of this Opinion are as follows.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
54 Sir William Johnson Papers
1 . From so many of the Six Nations, to the amount of 400 having
chearfully joined His Majestys Troops under Your Excellencys
Command this Summer at Tionderogo,1 and their behaviour on
that Service wch. obtained the Honour of your Excellencys thanks
to them.
2. From their readily joining Lieu1. Col. Bradstreet in his late
Enterprize against Fort Frontenac & their Behaviour upon that
Service, in which many more (before the Event was known) de-
clared to me, they would have joined had they been accquainted
with it & timely called upon.
3. From none of them carrying the least Intelligence of the
movement of our Troops & preparations, thro their Country, to
the Enemy which had they been devoted to the French Interest,
they might have done long before Col. Bradstreet appeared before
Cadaraqui, and I conceive in such Case would certainly have
done it.
4. From the Behaviour of their Delegates at the late Treaty at
Easton in Pensilvania with the Govr. of that Province & of New
Jersey which Treaty I have just now received & with it Letters
acknowledging, that to the Zeal & mediation of the Delegates of
the Six Nations, the favorable Event of that Treaty is in a great
Measure owing, and from which there is abundant reason to hope,
the Indian Interest in those parts will be restored to its former
[state] Strength and the Designs of the Enemy with regard to the
Indians in that Quarter be in a great Measure frustrated. Without
the zealous Mediation of the Six Nations at this Treaty in our
favour, things would not have taken the happy turn they have done,
had they not been attached to our Interest, it would not be
reasonable to suppose the 6 Nations would have thus zealously
mediated — add to this that my Deputy Mr. Croghan writes me
he is set off with 50 Indian Warriors who were at this Treaty,
to join Brigr. Forbes in his Operations against the Enemy, and
this upon a short Summons.
5. And Lastly the 5 Nations have frequently & solemnly assured
1 Ticonderoga.
Seven Years' War 55
me, they are detirmined not to abandon their Antient Alliance
with the English, and this I am inclined to beleive, among other
reasons for this strong & natural One, namely that I do not appre-
hend it is the Interest of their Confederacy, to quit our Alliance
& join the French against us.
And here I beg leave to repeat to Your Excellency, that with
regard to the Intelligence you received from Col. Bradstreet of
the 5 Nations having taken up the Hatchet against us in favour of
the French, I do not give Credit to it for the above reasons.
I am Sir very sensible that the Conduct of the 5 Nations in
general, hath for a considerable time past, been such as to give
room for Suspicions of their Fidelity, and I am of Opinion that
until we repossess our selves of Oswego & by that means estab-
lish such a Barrier for them, and that our Success against the
French render us so respectable in the Eyes of the 5 Nations as
to take off their present Dread of the French, and of the extensive
Indian Influence, which their unmolested possession of the Lakes
gives them. I say until Affairs take this turn, I am of Opinion that
the most favorable Expectations we may form of the 5 Nations,
cannot reasonably be for more, than their remaining Neutral
between us & the French. Our taking post at Oswego, com-
manding the Navigation of Lake Ontario & destroying Niagara,
would I conceive oblige & indeed incline the 5 Nations to declare
& act heartily in our favour, and by the means of a well conducted
Trade would draw the Western Indians into our Alliance &
Interest, and I think shake the whole French Indian Interest to
the Center, & disconcert if not totally subvert their whole System
of Indian Trade & Power upon this Continent.
Until this, or some part at least of this Scheme be effected
or that some other equally effecting Advantages over the French
power & possessions on this Continent be obtained, I apprehend
our Indian Interest will not mend in its Appearance but may per-
haps wear a more discouraging aspect.
I am Sir &c. &c.
WM. Johnson
56 Sir William Johnson Papers
The same day Sir William Johnson delivered Gen. Abercromby
his Ace', of Indian Expenses for 2 years1
FROM ARCHIBALD McAULAY
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Hendrick3 Dec*. 2, 1758
Sir
There is one thing further induces me to trouble you, and that
is the Indians of this Castle making Objection for cutting Fire
wood for this Garrison on their Territories, who seemed at First to
make us quite welcome, but were led on by the Schuyler Family &
forbid us for the future to cut any, the reason I understand since
was, that they were not bespoke for drawing the Wood themselves,
which I am informed of by old Nickus, with whom with great
Difficulty I made it up again, but dos not know how long it
may last on account of their being surrounded by a parcell of ill
advised Malicious Dutch, who enternally studies to make variance
between His Majestys Garrison & the Indians, the reason I
suppose why is, as I understand from different People as Schuyler
resides here have been persuading the Indians not to allow any
here but Country Troops and to have the Command himself. I
could make this clearer to You if at any time I should have the
honour to meet with you, but as you have His Majestys Interest
always at heart I hope you will take it into Consideration
I am Sir with the greatest Esteem
Your Affecte. hum serv*.
Archd. McAulay
Lieu1. Indepls.
1 The comment at the end of the letter is not part of the letter but a
continuation of Sir William Johnson's Journal of Indian Affairs, in which
this copy of the letter is to be found.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5. Extract of a letter,
inserted after the foregoing journal.
3 At Canajoharie.
Seven Years' War 57
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Nov. 18 -Dec. 4, 1758]
Fort Johnson, 1 8 Novr. 1 758
Sir William returned Otrawanas Belt of Intelligence, also that
of the Oniedas (which they sent some time ago to give him
notice of the Design of the French to come & attack the Carrying
Place, Fort Herkemaar & this River) by the Red Head, another
Onondaga Indian & a Seneca with his thanks for their Friendly
notice & early Intelligence desiring they would continue the
same friendly Dispositions on all occasions —
2 black & white Belts
The same day Sir William sent a Belt by the above Indians
strongly pressing the Onondagas & Oniedas for the last time to
withdraw their People from Oswegachie & that if they would not
comply & quit the French Interest (wch they were wrong in joining
& deserved to be everlastingly despised by them as well as us)
they might repent it when too late.
gave a Belt of 7 rows black & white
he then cloathed the Messengers & their Party consisting of
14 Men, 5 Women & 3 Children very well, being strongly
attached to the British Interest, gave them some Money to carry
them home, Rum &c. so parted, also an Order to the Commissary
at Fort Herkemaar to give them Provisions to carry them home.
they all promised they would be ready at a Call to join our
Arms & would give the earliest Notice they could learn of the
Enemys Designs.
the same day Nickus Chief Sachem of the Connojohary Castle
arrived here from the Meeting at Easton in Pensilvania, and in
the presence of the Belt a Seneca Sachem & several more of
said Nation, the Read Head & some mor Onondagas, shewed
Sir William all the Belts which passed between the Govrs. of
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
58 Sir William Johnson Papers
Pensilvania & Jersey & the several Nations of Indians there
assembled with the purport of them, which are not inserted
here as Mr. Croghan Deputy Agent has transmitted to Sir Wm.
Johnson all the Proceedings at the said Easton Meeting.
Nickus also delivered Sir William in the presence of said
Indians an Indenture of Release from Mr. Pens Agents, namely
Mr. Peters and Conraad Weiser, to the Six Nations, giving up all
rights & Titles to Lands purchased by said Pens Agents at Albany
in the year 1 754 of the Six Nations except what is reserved by
said Indenture as will appear by a Draught of said Land affixed
to the Indenture now in Sir Williams possession.
Said Nickus requested Sir William would inform the Mohocks
on their return from Hunting of what passed at the Meeting at
Easton1 & shew them the Indenture & Draught aforesaid, which he
promising to do, Nickus said he would return to his Castle.
Sir William made him a handsome Present for his Services at said
Meeting & after all this affair was over, told him of the several
Irregularities & violences committed during his Absence by the
Young Men of his Castle on the Property & Persons of the In-
habitants of this River, also of their killing the Cattle going to the
several Posts on this River for the use of His Majestys Troops, &
after expatiating a great deal on this Subject, Sir William told
him he must exert himself on this occasion or such Behaviour in
them must be productive of very fatal Consequences.
He said it was with the utmost Concern he had heard this
Account & assured Sir William he would endeavour all in his
power to restrain them & try to bring them to proper Order but
doubted of Success whilst there was such a Flood of Rum in the
Country which alone occasioned them to commit those Irregu-
larities & which if not prevented must inevitably destroy them
all in a little time.
Thus ended this Conference.
^uly and August, 1757. See Docs. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y.,
7:287-321.
Seven Years' War 59
Fort Johnson, 19 Nov'. 1758
Seth a Chief of Schohary arrived here this day & made the
following Complaint —
That a number of Germans were settled on Lands belonging to
the Indians of that Settlement who upon being asked by what
Authority they settled there, told the Indians they were settled
there by the Patroon of Albany,1 upon that the Complainant says
he was sent by the rest of the Sachems with a Letter concerning
the Affair to the Patroon at Albany, who disclaimed any right
to it, at the same time desired they would not molest the said
Germans, but let them use the Lands, and pointing to a Boy then
present (who they told the Indians was the young Patroon)2 said
when he came of Age he would buy the said Land & pay them for
it, to which the bearer of the Letter had no power to answer —
on his going away the late Patrooness3 gave him £5 to divide
among the Sachems to drink her Health. Hans Lawyer of
Schohary he says shewed them a Draught of Schohary & showed
the Indians that the Patroon had no right or Title to said Lands
on which the Germans were lately settled, that it was yet their
property & so did many more of the Inhabitants of Schohary —
the Indian concluded with telling Sir William that their Castle had
a Meeting upon it a few days ago at which they agreed to send
the Bearer to accquaint him with their Grievance & hoped he
would have justice done them, otherwise they were resoldved
to quit their Settlement the ensuing Spring & go to the Southward
— he further said that their Women & Children were in Expecta-
tion of being Cloathed by Sir William as the two Mohock Castles
had been last Month, and as they & their Men were firmly attached
to His Majestys Interest as any Indians whatsoever hoped I
would have no Objections to it, it being what was promised them
at the Commencement of the War & what they duly had hitherto.
Sir William told them he would enquire into the Affair of the
1 Stephen Van Rensselaer, 2nd.
2 Stephen Van Rensselaer, 3rd.
3 Elizabeth Groesbeck.
60 Sir William Johnson Papers
Land as soon as possible & if he found they were injured he would
use all means in his power to have Justice done them.
As to cloathing their old women, old Men & children he was
ready to do it a week ago had the severe Weather not prevented it
— that he would in a day or two send them by an officer to their
Settlement, being very sensible of their Attachment & readiness
on all Occasions which he desired they would ever continue &
assured them they would find it their Interest — on which the
Sachem in the name of the whole Castle returned thanks & said,
he had eased his Mind much & was sure it would give his People
very great Satisfaction on his return — Sir William gave him a
small Present & five Dollars to purchase some Necessarys which
he said he much wanted, & so parted.
2 1 November — Sir William sent Captains Butler & Fonda to
Schohary with two Horse Loads of Goods to cloath the Women &
Children of that Settlement, being in number 1 8 Women & 33
Children —
the 26. — They returned & reported that they had cloathed
the above number for wch. the Indians were very thankful, the
Officers gave them some Money to buy a little Provisions &
so parted.
The same day Sir William cloathed the Belts Family, viz.
Himself, his Wife, 3 Daughters Women grown one Grandchild
& a Boy of 1 0 years old.
23 Novr. — Cloathed 50 Onondagas who came with a Trusty
Indian of that Nation who lost his hand here by a Shot also gave
him a Cag of Rum & 3 Dollars to carry him home — Sir William
desired he would use all his Influence this Winter amongst the
young Men of his Nation so as to have a number of them ready
to join the Army next Spring — he promised he would do every
thing in his power for His Majestys Interest & would be down
here in the Spring or sooner, then parted.
24 November — At a meeting of all the Mohock Sachems
& Chiefs at Fort Johnson they desired Sir William to accquaint
Seven Years' War 61
them with what passed at the late Meeting at Easton in Pensil-
vania. he having the Minutes of said Meeting before him, he from
thence accquainted them with the several Transactions at it, and
shewed them the Indenture of the Release of their Lands about
Ohio, mentioned in said Treaty. They expressed & manifested
great Satisfaction at the Proprietaries giving up their Claim to
said Lands & hoped it would ease the Minds of all their Friends
& Countrymen which have for some time been very much dis-
turbed on that & some other Accounts. They returned Sir William
many thanks for communicating to them the particulars of the
Treaty at Easton, and on his asking their Opinion of it, their
cheif said that if all the Indians had promised at said Meeting
was sincere & intended to be performed by them, it would be a
very good thing for us & would give them also great Pleasure, but
that the 5 Nations & Delawares were so used to speak fine Words
without meaning, that they were at a loss even now what Opinion
to form of their future Behaviour, at the same time, that if a
general Meeting of the Nations were now to be called by [me]
Sir William, they would be obliged to be more open & explicit
than hitherto having the great Burthen taken off their Minds,
namely the Lands wch. were now given up to them. Sir William
told them he would consider of it & if found necessary & prac-
ticable at this Season of the Year he would call a Meeting of all
the Nations gave them Pipes Tobacco &c. Drank the Kings
Health & so parted.
Fort Johnson 30 Nov'. 1 759.
Two Onieda Indians, 3 Squas & 5 Children arrived here &
accquainted Sir William that the Sachems, Warriors some Women
&c. of their Castle were on their way hither & would they thought
be here the next day. they said their Sachems were coming on
Buisness of a good deal of moment. These Indians were going
into the Woods a hunting.
1 Dec. — The above Indians had some Amunition & some
Cloaths given them, being 1 0 in all, also Provisions on their
Journey, for which they were very thankful, & promised they
62 Sir William Johnson Papers
would be ready at any time when Sir William called upon them
to join His Majestys Arms.
4 December — Sir William dispatched Cap1 Thomas Butler
to Fort Stanwix in order to regulate the Trade there with the
Indians & prevent their being ill used or imposed upon, also to
receive & transmit to him all Intelligence he may learn from the
Indians. His Instructions on this Service are recorded in the
Blue Book of this date.
Fort Johnson 4 December 1 758. —
This day Sir William received a Letter from Lieu1. MacAulay
of the Independ1. Companys posted at Fort Hendrik, an Extract
of which concerning Indian Affairs is here inserted.
TO ARCHIBALD McAULAY
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson Decr. 5. 1758 —
Sir
I take the Opportunity by Cap1. Butler of acknowledging the
receipt of yours of the 2 Inst.2 being then very much hurried
desired Lieu*. Claas to write you, which he tells me he did there-
fore have not much now to add but to assure you that nothing
would give me more Satisfaction than to have it in my power
to make an Example of such as would endeavour to breed Mis-
understandings between the Garrison there & the Indians, that
there are such I am fully satisfied, for wch. reason I here inclose
you an Advertisement to be set up in the properest place. I hope
I may be able to find thereby some sufficient proof to ground a
Prosecution on, if not it will have some good Effect for a time as
I dare say it will frighten those Kind of people a good deal.
I am Sir
Your very hum serv*.
WM. Johnson
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Ante p. 56.
Seven Years' War 63
AN ADVERTISEMENT
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson, Dec. 5, 1758.
From the several Disputes & little Bickerings which have
hitherto happened between the Garrison of Fort Hendrick & the
Indians of Connojohary there is abundant reason to think that
some evil low designing People among the Inhabitants in those
parts, have & do stir up the Indians (who are naturally a quiet
peacable People) to it from some vile mercenary & selfish Views
to the prejudice of the Service & disquietude of the Garrison,
in order therefore to detect such Villains & Enemies to the Coun-
try so as to enable me to prosecute them, I do hereby offer a
reward of Twenty Pounds to any Person who will bring or
give me sufficient proof against such Offenders.
Given under my hand at Fort
Johnson this 5 day of Decr. 1 758
WM. Johnson
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
[Dec. 5-9,1758.]
5 Dec. — Hannis an Onieda (Nixnoxque's Son) was sent
by his Father, Tierhadaghrio & others of that Nation from
Schohary where they were a hunting to let Sir William know
they with their Families were in a starving Condition owing to
the scarcity of Game & the Sullenness & ill temper of the In-
habitants of that Settlement on Account of some Pigs &c which
were killed by some Indians lately, and for which as they say,
they are so much out of Temper that they will not give an Indian
a Morsel of any thing tho ever so much in want, but give them
ill language which the Indians he says are very uneasy at, &
desired the Messenger to ask [me whether] Sir William, whether
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5. The original was
enclosed in Johnson to McAulay, Dec. 5, 1 758.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
64 Sir William Johnson Papers
he did not know any other reason for such their unfriendly
behaviour, towards the Indians & that Sir Wm would write to
the People of Schohary about it. He sent the Messenger back
immediately, gave him some Money to buy Provision for their
Family & desired him to tell the Oniedas & others, that he would
enquire into the Affair & have it settled, at the same time desired
he would tell all the Indians, he expected they would on their
part continue their friendly Disposition towards the Inhabitants
of that Settlement as usual, by which means & Sir William's
writing to them he did not doubt but everything would be amicably
settled.
9 December — Sir William sent Cap1 Jellas Fonda one of his
Indian Officers to Schohary with a Letter to the Inhabitants of
that Place, remonstrating to them the Disadvantages to them-
selves in particular & to His Majestys Service in general, which
would arise from a Breach with the Indians at this Juncture &
exhorting them to bear patiently with some triffling Inconveniences
rather than create a Misunderstanding between them &c. as will
appear by the Copy of the said Letter of this date in the Blue
Book of Minutes.
And he directed Cap'. Fonda to explain this said Letter prop-
erly to them — in the following Instructions.
INSTRUCTIONS TO JELLES FONDA
Contemporary Copy1
Dec. 9, 1758
Instructions to Cap1. Jellas Fonda going to Schohary —
You are to call the principal Inhabitants of that Settlement
together, explain my Letter to them, and tell them the ill con-
sequences of their differing with the Indians, particularly at this
time. I would have you in the Strongest manner recommend a
good Agreement to them with all Indians who reside or pass that
way, and also to make a collection of Indian Corn &c. for such
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
Seven Years' War 65
as are now in want of Provisions as the best way of continuing
their Friendship which secured will be the best means of pre-
venting their being disturbed by the Enemy.
Also to let them know that you are in my name to speak to
all the Indians there & desire they will live in Friendship with
their Bretheren & not offer to molest them or their Properties,
if they do that it will be a means of souring their Tempers &
giving a check to their Donations to them & must certainly give
me a bad Opinion of them, which will be the greatest Loss of
all to them, this & any other Arguments which may occur to you
necessary to use on that Occasion you have my Liberty to make
use of.
These Strings of Wampum you are to deliver to the Indians
after speaking & desire they will take notice of what I recommend.
W. Johnson
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Dec.9-12J758.]
Fort Johnson 9 Dec'. 1 758 —
The Onieda Sachems with several of their Young Men,
Women & Children to the amount of 40 arrived here, after
quartering them, giving Provisions &c. the Sachems, viz Gan-
achquieson, Sonoghsis, Teyhary, Senoghsis Brother &c. came
into the Council Room when Conochquieson spoke as follows.
Brother
We of the Onieda Nation are glad to see You at this Council
fire. We are 14 days by the way occasioned by some of our
People's falling sick & are now fatigued & hungry therefore
must defer saying anything to you till tomorrow.
Sir William asked them whether it would be agreeable to
them to have the Mohocks his Neighbors present whan they were
to deliver what they had to say. After some pause Conochquieson
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
66 Sir William Johnson Papers
said there was no Occasion as Sir William could acquaint the
Mohocks afterwards. They said they had no extraordinary
News, but expected they should have when Chinughiata Chief
of Onondaga returned from Canada which they expected would
be soon he having been gone a good while. They then asked
what News was stirring here. Sir William told them he had
none, but that he understood two Deserters from the French
brought an Account that 700 Men were marched from some
part of Canada before they came away, & were to attempt some-
thing this way, on which they said they expected the French
would attempt to cut off their Castle for their giving us constant
Intelligence, thus ended this Conference.
In the Evening of the same day Sagueriza Chief of the Tus-
caroras with Gagh'swangereris & several others of said Nation,
came into the Council room & after usual Salutations appologized
for their not coming before, saying the Oniedas had not used
them well, in not letting them know they were coming in to wait
on Sir William & begged he would not take amiss their not
coming in before, but imputed it to the Oniedas (with whom
they came in Company [with the Oniedas] from their Country)
not giving them notice they were coming in.
Sir William told them he was satisfied of their good Intentions
& with their Appology — after drinking the Kings health, they
withdrew.
1 0 December — The Oniedas & Tuscarora Sachems to the
amount of 30 came into the Council room.
Pres*. Sir William Johnson
Capt. Guy Johnson
Lieu* Claus Dep. Sec1?.
Jacobus Clement Interpr.
Conochquieson the Onieda Chief Sachem in behalf of both
Nations spoke as follows.
Brother
We understood by an Onondaga who was going home that
Seven Years' War 67
you was surprized at our not acquainting you with the murder
of Kindarunte one of our Chief Men, by some French Indians
lately at the carrying place.
Brother
As soon as the Affair happened we Dispatched a Messenger
with this Belt to our Fathers the Onondagas & Senecas & our
Brothers the Cayougas acquainting them with the Circumstances
thereof & desiring them to consider upon it & let us know the
Result. When the Messengers came to Cayouga they were
stopped & desired not to proceed any farther, but return & tell
their People to deliberate & maturely upon the affair & not act
like drunken People.
Gave a Belt
Brother
Three of the Onondaga Chiefs who immediately after our
Loss came to our Castle & condoled with us thereon, desiring
that we would for the present defer doing anything in the Affair,
as Bunt the Chief of their Nation with several more were in
Canada & soon expected, assuring us at the same time that on
their return, they would acquaint all their & our Allies of it and
have a general Council upon it, and We have no reason to doubt
but they will act agreable to the Fundamental Rules of our
Confederacy, viz that if any Nation should kill one of the Con-
federate Nations, that all should rise against that Nation &
revenge it which the Onondagas confirmed with this Belt.
a Belt.
Brother
Last year when you proposed a Trade amongst us you told
us that the Goods should be sold us Cheap. Likewise last Sum-
mer the General at the Lake, told us that after having built a
Fort at the Onieda Carrying Place he would procure us a Cheap
& plentiful Trade there, but after all it seems these fair Promises
came from your Lips, for we find that goods are sold us dearer
than ever, wherefore some of our People are gone towards Pen-
68 Sir William Johnson Papers
silvania where we hear Goods are sold Cheap; and also the rest
of our Young People after you stopped them from coming to
join the Army the last time & desired them to go upon the hunt
for Leather for Shoes in order to be prepared whan Occasion may
require.
a Belt.
Brother
We are in a distressed Condition having nothing in the World
for our Sustenance, our Crops of Corn having faild this year by
the early Frosts and we find it to be the same Case with our
Fathers the Connojoharys,1 for when we passed by there they
had not so much as a meal of Victuals to Give us on our way
hither. Wherefore we must call upon you for your Assistance
& Pity in this our distressed Condition & beg you will appoint
a place where we may get some Provisions.
a Belt.
Brother
The Commanding Officer when we came there first, ordered
us some Provisions, but after that would not let us have any
more & treated them who went for it very ill, at the same time
did not refuse any to some Onondagas that were then there.
Brother this seems quite strange to us & should be glad to know
the reason & beg you'l prevent such doing for the future & have
us provided as usual.
a String.
They further added that after they were refused Provisions
with very ill treatment as abovementioned, one Harman Fisher
told them, he would go with them to the Fort & buy Provisions
for them if he could get it no other ways, but when he came with
them to the Gate they met Cap*. Wendal & then could not get
more for their whole Company than 3 peices of Porke which we
attribute to Cap1. Wendall.
1 The Mohawks at Canajoharie.
Seven Years' War 69
Brother
By this String we not only in the name of our Selves but also
in that of the Onondagas & Cayougas apply to you for having
a stop put to the selling of any Strong Liquors to our People,
first it not only disturbs us in our Meetings & Consultations where
the drunken People come in quarelling & very often have Weapons
in their hands, but it likewise carrys off many of our People both
old & young.
Wherefore we earnestly beseech you to have no more Liquor
brought among us to be sold. All we desire to be sold is dry
Goods as usual for Necessary Cloaths & ammunition to hunt with.
a String,
here ended this Conference.
Fort Johnson 1 2 Decr. 1 758.
Sir William Johnsons Answer to the foregoing Speech.
Bretheren of the Onieda & Tuscarora Nations.
I return you thanks for the Ceremony of Condolance which
you have performed for our Losses & I on my part do the same
for the several Losses you have sustained by Sickness &c. more
particularly for that of your Sachem Kindarunte lately butchered
by the French & their Indians in yr. own Feilds.
Gave 3 Strings Wampum.
Bretheren
You say you sent immediately on the Death of Kindarunte a
Belt of Wampum to accquaint the upper Nations of your Loss,
and the Behaviour of the French & Indians on that Occasion,
it was so far right, but I am surprized you did not accquaint me
& the Mohocks at the same time. They are the head of the Con-
federacy, that would have been proper & keeping up to your
former & once established Engagements & Customs, but I am sorry
to see you daily falling off from & neglecting them which were
so salutary & prudent that your wise & brave Ancestors flourished
in their days by an Observance of them.
70 Sir William Johnson Papers
You must all remember that I have repeatedly advised your
Nations in particular to take timely & proper Steps while in
your power, to put a Stop to the French & their Indians coming
thro your Country, otherwise it would be productive of ill con-
sequences. You now find my Words true, and I wish for your
sakes that the Loss of that Sachem may not be followed by a
greater.
Your Bretheren of Cayouga acted a very wrong part in not
forwarding your Belt & Message to the Senecas who probably
might have paid more regard to it than they have.
here returned their Belt.
Bretheren
The Onondagas immediately you say sent some of their People
to condole to to condole1 with you the loss of Kindarunte at your
Castle, so far it was friendly & well done if sincere, but their
lulling You (then justly roused to a commendable resentment
as I was informed) to a pacific Disposition for the present, until
some of their People returned from Canada, who had they a
regard for You, for us or their Country, would not have been
so mean to creep to the French at this time, to me looks more
like French Policy, than any thing else, and it is also doubtful
with me whether they will return at all unless forced by hunger,
the part the Bunt & they have acted is too base for any Beings
who have the least power of Reflection to think of ever looking
you or us in the Face. As for my part Bretheren I shall say but
little more to you on this Subject, than that had you applied to
your Brothers who altho with the Hatchet in their Head this
long time and unregarded by you would have afforded you &
will yet their assistance as they are well disposed to keep up to
their Engagements with you.
a Belt.
Bretheren
The Promises I made to the Six Nations about Trade last
Winter, I will remember, besides here it is recorded & their
Repeated in manuscript.
Seven Years' War 71
Answer to it by their Deputies Tagodereghsere & Odaatsighte
&c. last May both wch. I shall repeat to you as I find your
Memories are bad or do wilfully misconstrue my Proposal then
made, by which was meant a general Trade as well for your
Allies as your selves, which you must be all sensible could not
answer the End intended at the place then proposed by those
Deputies viz the German Flatts, thereupon that friendly & benefi-
cial Offer was by you overset, still willing & desirous to open a
Trade for your present Relief, the General promised to build a
Fort at the Onieda Carrying Place which might not only protect
a Trade there but be a lever to your Country ; in a great Measure
both have been effected. I had also an Indian Officer there to
see Justice done you in your Dealings with our People & another
is gone there lately for the same purpose.
I am sorry to find that notwithstanding all these Steps &
precautions taken by us for the promotion of your Interest, you
seem still insensible of them by Complaining in the Manner you
now do & ungratefully Charge us with Dissimulation, a Character
or Vice I wish our Bretheren of the Six Nations were as great
Strangers to as the English. It is an Expression or rather a
Charge of such a Nature as obliges me to call upon You here
present & Challenge the 6 Nations to make it good. If you cannot
I expect You will make a proper Acknowledgement.
Your Complaints of the dearness of our Goods I can prove
to be ill grounded, for Instance a Stroud Blanket wch. in times
of Peace when Goods are always Cheapest sold for 3ft) of
Bever now you bought it for 2ft) or less owing to the high price
of Bever & so all other Articles in like proportion. You do not
or at least are unwilling to consider that a Scarcity of any Com-
modity makes it dear, for Example your Bever & Skins are
double the Value they have been when plenty. The War we are
engaged in employs many of our Manufacturers & Artificers & of
Course Goods cannot be altogether so Cheap as otherwise, but
if you compare the prices wch. the French make their Indians
(who from their strong Attachment to their Interest should be
entituled to the most reasonable Bargains) pay, with those you
72 Sir William Johnson Papers
pay, you must think yourselves extreamly well used & the Com-
plaints you have made quite idle & groundless. I am glad to
hear our Bretheren of Pensilvania sell you Goods so Cheap, &
would advise you to buy at the most reasonable Market. I am
also glad to hear that your Young Men are gone a hunting, as
that may relieve their Families much & supply themselves with
Shoes so as to be ready on Occasion to act against the Enemy wctl.
by this Belt I recommend to you all most strongly as you have
the Hatchet in your Heads.
a Belt.
Bretheren
You tell me the Sachems & Women are come to me crying
for the want of Provisions in your Country ; I am sorry for it &
should be much readier to relieve you, had it been occasioned
by your Mens being employed in our Service so as to prevent
their Attending our Crops, but as you well know the Contrary I
am surprized at your unreasonable Demands, as much also at
your Complaints against the Officer at Fort Herkemaar who
altho he had no Orders that I know of to supply any Indians at
that time, writes me this Letter, whereby it appears that you
received from him above 600 Rations in a few days which is the
Allowance of 30 Soldiers in 20 days. You also received as Gen.
Stanwix tells me a vast Quantity at the Carrying Place this time
past ; what Service you have done for it is well known to yourselves.
I know of no reason why the Commanding Officer of Fort
Herkemaar gave the Onondagas more Provisions than to you,
unless it was for their joining our Troops against Cadaraqui &
yours not wc}l is all known to your Bretheren & they will be
regarded for it.
Bretheren
These Demands are very unexpected & find me unprovided
with Provisions to answer them. I have sent to New York for
a Quantity to be Shipped me in the Spring when I receive them
all who are entituled to them shall have them. In the mean time
Seven Years' War 73
as I know there are some among you who are our Friends tho but
lukewarm, I will give you as much Money as will purchase 250
Schepels of Grain which with your Hunting will support you
till the Spring, when if you convince me of your deserving it ; you
will find me as I have hitherto been, ready to serve you.
a Belt & String Wampum
Bretheren
Your request in Conjunction with the Onondagas that there
should be a Stop put to the Sale of Rum to the aforesaid Nations,
I must say to me appears very whimsical as you well know what
a Noise was made about stopping it before by some of every
nation, nay several Sachems now present told me unless it was
allowed to be sold again they were in Danger of their Lives.
What an Opinion must the Govr. of New York, his Council &
assembly (before whom & by whom only such Laws can be
passed) have of the Six Nations? Why first they must think
them divided amongst themselves as the Request comes only
from some of the Nations, in the next place they must imagine
them very fickle to say no worse, being but 2 years ago since they
passt such a Law at the 6 Nations earnest Request, tho against
the Interest of the Subject, the Year After at their desire the
Law was repealed, now to desire the same Law to be [repassed]
renewed, must certainly appear to every body extreamly odd;
wherefore as I should be unwilling to have you propose any thing
to that Body improperly, I advise you to agree upon it at some
general Meeting of all the Confederacy, not only to agree to
desire such a Law may be past, but to determine what number
of years you would wish to have it continued; when you do this
I shall use my Endeavours to get such a Law past, being sensible
the immoderate use of Rum is very pernicious to your Nations &
which I have often endeavoured to convince you of.
a String
Bretheren
Your Arms & Axes I will give Orders to have mended & wish
you may make a proper use of them.
74 Sir William Johnson Papers
After Sir William had delivered this Answer the Sachems
consulted together & made the following Reply to it.
Brother
We heartily thank you for what you have said to us in answer
to our Speech of Sunday last, and from the fullness of it we
find no part has escaped your Notice. We have fully understood
every particular thereof.
Brother
With regard to our Resolutions upon the Loss of our Sachem
Kindarunte we declare to You as our only Friend, that we have
not nor do we ever intend to drop it, for we the Oniedas & Tus-
caroras are firmly agreed to revenge his Death & only wait an
Answer from our Allies which as soon as we receive shall im-
mediately accquaint you therewith.
Your reflecting upon our not accquainting You & our Father
the Mohocks with Kindarunte's being Killed, surprizes us much,
as we in a Meeting desired the Messenger who you sent to sum-
mons the 6 Nations the last time, to acquaint you & the Mohocks
of it in form, why he did not do it we cannot account for.
Sir William then returned them a large belt which he formerly
gave the Oniedas to send as a Token of Truth if any News of
Consequence came to their knowledge, and they faithfully prom-
ised they would continue to give Sir William all the News they
could learn of the French's Designs or Motions which Sir Wil-
liam strongly recommended to them as it would be a convincing
proof of their Attachment & regard for us.
After all was over Sir William gave a French Scalp 6c Belt
of 3000 black Wampum to replace Kindaruntie as is their
Custom which gave very great Satisfaction, and on which all the
Indians came & shook him by the hand, thanked him most heartily
for it & told him, they would carry it in so public a manner &
with the usual shout on such Occasions, that all the Nations
should know it, then the fire was covered by Sir William and
the Conference ended.
Seven Years' War 75
Some time after, the Chief of Onieda desired Sir William
would come into the Council room where half a dozen of the
other Sachems were met; On his entering the Room Conochqui-
eson stood up & told him, that the reason of their Meeting &
calling him in was to deliver the Medal which he formerly gave
to Aguiyoda1 then the Chief of the Onieda Nation who died
last Summer at Sir Williams House, that he might give it to such
of the Oniedas as he thought deserving or qualified for a Sachem.
On which he told them he would enquire & learn who was the
properest Person to succeed Aguiyoda & him he would appoint
for which they returned him their hearty thanks and withdrew.
1 2 Decr. The Sachems of the Onieda & Tuscarora with a
Number of their Warriors entered the Council room & sent
the Interpreter to accquaint Sir William that they had a few
Words to say to him & would be glad he would hear them. Sir
William coming in they spoke as follows.
Bror. We are much obliged to you for ordering the few Axes,
Locks of Guns &c. we have brought with us to be mended. We
have many at home out of Order wch as we expect we shall have
use for in the Spring beg you will appoint some particular Smith
to bring them to in order to be mended —
Sir William told them that he could not see how they could
avoid resenting the Injury done them by killing one of their Chief
Men as the French must otherwise despise them, as must every
body else. If not that he expected they would without fail join
His Majestys Arms in the Spring, in Confidence of which he gave
them an Order on Peter Cremer to mend all the Guns, Axes &c.
w^. the Oniedas & Tuscaroras might bring him till that time,
when he assured them if they behaved as he expected, he would
immediately thereon order Smiths to their Country & supply
them with Amunition &c. & not otherwise.
They returned him their most hearty thanks & assured him
their resolution was to do themselves Justice from the Maltreat-
1 Aguiotta.
76 Sir William Johnson Papers
ment they received from the French & their Indians in Killing
Kindarunte.
After all was over Sir William gave a French Scalp & a large
Belt of Wampum to replace Genaghquaia a great Onieda Sachem
& Warrior, wch. gave great Satisfaction to them all.
Sir William had several private Conferences with the Chiefs
afterwards who all acknowledged (after his using several Argu-
ments to convince them of their Folly by acting the part they
had done for some years) what he said & the Advice he had
given them to be for their Interest & assured him that they began
to pay a due regard to it & would more every day being thoroughly
convinced he was their Friend &c.
He gave them several little private Presents & so they parted
very well satisfied.
TO JOHN STANWIX
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 16th Dec'. 1758
Nine in the morning
Sir
I just now received your favour of yesterday, & imagine that
any information concerning the enemy could not have come from
the Inhabitants of Stoneraby,2 as I Yesterday evening returned
from a ride that way, & the day before spoke with Justice Tilli-
bach3 of that place who mentioned nothing of it to me. About
a week ago, a report came up the country from Albany, that a
body of French, & Indians were discover'd upon their March,
towards the Mohock River upon which I sent out several scouts,
who made no discovery, but I shall still continue to send parties
our whilst its practicable without Snow shoes, with which I am
not provided, as I received no account from you, I did not give
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Stone Arabia.
3 Justice Wilhelmus Dillenbach. See Johnson Calendar, p. 5 76.
Seven Years' War 77
much credit to the above report, which was said to be brought
by deserters to Albany.
The 9th. ins1, the principal men of the Oneida, & Tuscarora
nations with several others, & their families arrived here, & in-
formed me that they were starving at home, having nothing to
subsist on, & begging my assistance, upon which I gave them
some money to buy corn at Stoneraby, & other places about the
River, where most of them intend to stay during the winter having
nothing at home, & from the disposition they appear at present
in, I can't imagine they would concern themselves in any thing
to the Injury of the Inhabitants of this country.
It is not improbable but the enemy may make an attempt on
Stoneraby, or one of those places which lye exposed, when the
Ice & Snow is favourable, they being always provided with
requisites for a Winter expedition. Therefore I am still of opinion
some troops then would be very necessary.
I have just erected two Blockhouses1 upon the most convenient
ground to serve as Outworks, & cover my house, & as I under-
stand the Garrison of Fort Hunter is large, & the place crowded,
should be glad you would please to order a Subaltern with 40
men here, which I can more conveniently dispose of in those
Blockhouses.
If any intelligence of moment comes to my hands, I shall im-
mediately make you acquainted therewith, & should I hear further
of an Enemy's approach, I shall write to Col. Fraser.
I am &c
WM. Johnson
To
BR GL Stanwix.
INDORSED :
Copy from Sr. Wm Johnson
To B'. Stanwix 1 6* Dec', 1 758
1 See Guy Johnson's drawing of Fort Johnson, Johnson Papers, 1 :260-
61 , for location of these two blockhouses.
78 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York Dec*. 17th. 1758.—
Sir
I have received a Memorial from the inhabitants of Conajohary
on the North side of the Mohawk River, desiring one hundred
Men to be quartered in their houses, or that they should be
obliged to fly away, this fear I imagine may be withiout any
foundation, but to insure them a quiet Possession of their habita-
tions, I have wrote to Brigr. Gen1. Stanwix to Advance one
Hundred Men there according to the Desire of the Inhabitants. —
I have at the same time informed Brigr. Gen1. Stanwix that I
should write to you to Acquaint you of my Intentions, & that
if he wanted any Intelligence as to the quartering of the hundred
Men, I desired he would apply to You, as no one knows the
Country so well. —
The Success of His Majesty's Arms on the Ohio by the Enemy
having been obliged to Burn & abandon Fort Dequesne, which
Brigr. Gen1. Forbes took possession off the 24 Past, is a Piece
of News that will give great joy in England. —
I shall very glad seize every Occasion to Assure you that I am
with great Truth
Sir
Your Most Humble
and Most Obedient Servant
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
SR. William Johnson Bar1. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Seven Years' War 79
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Fort Johnson, Dec. 16 - 18, 1758]
1 6 December — Cap1. Jellas Fonda returned from Schohary
& made the following Report of his Proceedings at that place
in Consequence of the Instructions given him by Sir William viz.
That at a Meeting with the Schohary & River Indians held
at the house of Josias Swaart the 14 Inst present Cap1. Fonda,
Josias Swaart & Cornelius Vroman both principal Inhabitants
there that after Cap1. Fonda had delivered the Indians Sir Wil-
liam's Message &c.
Seth the Chief Man & Warrior of that Village spoke as
follows —
Brother
We are all extreamly thankful to our Brother Warraghyjagey
for his regard & care now shown for us by sending you here &
advising us to follow such Steps & Measures as may greatly
contribute to our Happiness & avoid those which may prejudice
us all which we shall, you may assure him, strictly follow &
observe. His writing to the white People of this Settlement to
behave kind to us & supply us with a little Provision now in our
Distress, lays us under the greatest Obligation & he may depend
upon our living in such Friendship with our Bretheren as will leave
them no room to complain & we hope they will do the same on
their parts, and this we confirm with these Strings
here they gave 3 Strings Wampum
A Mohikander Indian stood up & spoke to the same purport
as above & gave a String of Wampum to confirm his Words
David a Schohary Warrior followed Cap1. Fonda to Mr.
Lawyers2 where he desired Mr. Fonda to accquaint Sir William
with the following particulars
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Johannes Lawyer, of Schoharie.
80 Sir William Johnson Papers
That all the Damage on which the Complaint was made
against the Indians by the Schohary People was only the Oniedas
having Killed a Hog of one Whitmire, and says that the People
to whom it belonged did not express themselves in the manner
it was reported.
David further desired Cap1. Fonda to inform Sir William that
the Death of Ogachte the Onieda who was killed by a River
Indian was condoled by the Schohary Indians & that it was
resolved upon the said Murderer should be killed & an Onieda
Indian is appointed to do it, this being the Third Murder he hath
committed amongst the Indians
a String of 2 Rows
The People of Schohary on Sir Williams Letter to them of
the 9 Curr1. had a meeting at which they returned him their
hearty thanks for the early Steps he had taken to prevent the
late little differences which happened between them & the Indians
their Neighbors from going further, & assured him they would
pay all due regard to his Admonitions & also make a Collection
of Indian Corn &c. for the Indians about them who were in want,
according to his Advice.
Mr. Lawyer of Schohary also wrote Sir Wm. a Letter of thanks
for his Care of that Settlement & therein assured him that he would
use all his Influence to keep up a good Understanding between
the People of that Settlement & the Indians being very Sensible
it was for their Interest, & more particularly so at this time.
Decr. 1 8. — Sir William Dispatched Cap1. Jellas Fonda to
reside at Fort Herkemaar with Instructions a Copy of which
are entered in the Blue Cover Book of this date.
Seven Years' War 81
TO JOHN STANWIX
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 18th Decr. 1758
Sir
I have received your favour of yesterday by express. The
inhabitants of Stoneraby are not able to subsist any number of
Troops in their Settlement not having a sufficient quantity of
Provision, above what will be necessary for the subsistence of
their own families.
I have not heard any news since my last, concerning the enemy,
but I shall make you acquainted, with any intelligence I may
receive of their motions.
I am &c
WM. Johnson
To BR. GL. Stanwix
FROM JELLES FONDA
Contemporary Copy2
Sir William Johnson reed the following Letter from Cap1.
Fonda dated at Fort Herkemaar3 27 Decr. 1 758 — 4
[Fort Herkemaar 27 Dec'. 1758]
Sir
There came an Onieda Indian named Sahoressa with those
three Strings of Wampum I hereby send you in order to invite
Sir William & the Mohocks to a Meeting which is now to be held
at Onondaga, he will not or cant tell me what it is to be about,
so have no more to add but remain
Sir Your dutiful Serv1.
Jellas Fonda
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
3 Fort Herkimer, a post on the Mohawk River near the German Flatts.
4 This material prefacing the letter is the entry, at Fort Johnson, of Jan-
uary 11,1 759, in the Indian Records.
82 Sir William Johnson Papers
P. S. The Oniedas that are here
say that if Sir William will
go to the Meeting they would be
glad if you will let them know so that they
might stay to accompany him up, it is Nicolaase
& Aghtaquiesera that speak this.
FROM THOMAS BUTLER
Contemporary Copy1
The following Letter Sir William received in Albany from
Cap1. Thomas Butler residing at Fort Stanwix2 dated 29 De-
cember 1 758.3
[Fort Stanwix, 29 December 1758.]
Sir
I am to accquaint you of a very extraordinary thing which
happened there the 23d. in the Evening came in two Young
Indians, the One an Onondaga the other a Cayouga, the latter
was at your House last Summer a considerable time, his name is
Tanighwanega, you will remember him perhaps by his remark-
able Big Ears & always wore a Handkerchief loose about his
[jEars] Head. The other I know his Face & believe they both
came from their Castles — I did not see them till the next Morn-
ing. After talking a little together they both told me they had
been a hunting about Onieda Lake & brought with them two
Bever Skins to try the market & if they liked it would return
soon with more — John Mc.Mickel who was the only Trader had
them at his house 3 Nights & bought the Skins.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Fort Stanwix, on the site of the present day city of Rome, N. Y., was
built by Brigadier General John Stanwix, in 1 758, at the Oneida
carrying place. It was built on the site of old Fort Williams, built in 1 755,
under orders of General Shirley, by Captain Williams. In 1 776, the fort
was repaired, and renamed Fort Schuyler, in honor of General Philip
Schuyler, nephew of Peter Schuyler.
3 This material prefacing the letter is an undated entry in the Indian
Records.
Seven Years' War 83
Skanondo the Onieda who lives here came & told me he had
been informed by a young Cayouga who had past his House
on his way home, that in a day or two at farthest a Scalp would
be taken here and desired me to inform the Commandant that
he might keep his Men from scattering, he said the Cayouga had
told him at the same time there was a Design to attack this Fort,
that 400 of the Enemy lay at Cayouhaga about 30 miles to the
Eastward of Oswego & 800 at Cadaraqui for that purpose, upon
this Intelligence Rangers were ordered out to search the Woods
if possibly they might discover a Scalping party. I likewise em-
ployed Indians for that purpose that I could confide in.
Major Clephane1 as he thought Lieu*. Campbel was on his
way hither with Baggage &c. wrote him a Line the 26 to give
him Notice to be on his Guard & got John Mc.Mickel to carry
the same who for want of an Onieda, they being all on the Scout
employed the above Cayouga to go with him, in about 3 hours
after they had been gone, the Indian returned, who I heard was
making ready to go away which gave some Suspicion. I examined
him what was become of Mc.Mickel he told me he was gone
forward with one of the Oniedas & that he returned on Account
of a Lameness in his Knee so left me & went to his House — that
instant came in one of the Onieda Scouters who I sent to enquire
at the Indian Cabbins if one was gone with Mc.Mickel, but 5
minutes after the Cayouga had left me, came a Man who in-
formed me he with the Onondaga were gone — Cap1. Wendal
who was with me he & I ran out of the House to stop them, but
saw they were at too great a Distance, so dispatched 6 of the
nimblest Rangers after them, but all in vain, for upon the fellows
seeing them, set a running so fast that they would not by any
means be overtaken.
I then went and accquainted the Major of it & the Suspicions
I had of Mc.Mickels being killed, a party was ordered out to
search, & about 6 miles from this found him scalped & by all
the marks suppose the Indian as he walked behind took an Op-
1 Major James Clephane, of 78th regiment.
84 Sir William Johnson Papers
pertunity to Kill him with his Hatchet, he took from his Watch
& what little Money he had about him, but not the Letters. Its
to be thought some of the Cayouga Nation here know of it, but
not the Oniedas, they condoled his Death in their manner with
some strings of Wampum
Tyonosharessha an Onondaga who came here the 27, says
400 Canadians are on this side Sweegachie & 1000 Regulars
soon expected in order to build there a Fort — that he had heard
of 20 Indians out for Scalping & thinks the above two are of
that party, he tells me likewise a Meeting of the Six Nations
are called to be held at Onondaga & that one is gone down to
accquaint you of the above & invite you thereto. The above
Onondaga told Scanondo as he past his House that the French
were building a strong Fort a little on this side Sweegachie &
early in the Spring would build one at Cadaraqui after which
would come with Cannon to attack this. He cast several Reflec-
tions on the Oniedas in his Drink, saying they were too much in
the English Interest. A long black haird fellow of Onieda
known by the name of John tells a Lame Story that he saw the
above Sweegachie Fellows at the Lake, that they were then 4
in number & told him their Party had been 20 Strong sent out
by the French to take as near Account of this place as possible
they could, and to get one or two Prisoners for Intelligence as
they understood we were assembling here for a Winters Expedi-
tion & they much wanted to know the certainty, he said nothing
of the 400 Men at Cahukage nor of those at Cadaraqui.
I am Sir &c.
Thos. Butler
P. S. The Indians say
the Enemy design to continue Scalping here this
Winter & propose by Policy to draw out a Party from
the Garrison. The Indians lying about this [post] have
notice sent them by the Enemy to have as little
Concern with the white People as possible & so soon
they had done their Affairs with them to return to
their Hutts for Fear of a Mistake in case of an Attack.
Seven Years* War 85
N. B. Sir William sent an Abstract of the above Letter to Brigr.
Stanwix by Lieu1. Claas. — 1
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
[Jan. 16-19,1759]
1 6 Janry. — Sir William arrived at Connojohary with some
Seneca & Mohock Sachems.
The 1 7th. — He ordered the Indians living at some Distance
to be called home, which was accordingly done.
The 1 8th. — They being assembled at their Council room
sent him Notice that they were ready to hear him on which Sir
William with Cap1. Johnson3 & Fonda, Lieu*. Clause, Clement
the Interpr. & the Seneca & Mohock Sachems, went to the House
they were assembled in. When after the usual Ceremonies Sir
William condoled the Losses they had sustained by Sickness &c.
with three Strings of Wampum.
3 Strings
they on their part did the same in their usual way for the Losses
we suffered by the Sword &c.
with 3 Strings Wampm
Then Sir William desired their Attention & spoke as follows.
Bretheren of the Two Mohock Castles & Senecas.
I take the first Opportunity of accquainting You that His
Majesty has been pleased to appoint Maj. Gen. Amherst Com-
mander in Chief of all his Forces in North America in the room of
Major Gen. Abercromby who is called home, also that the General
has by Letter desired I would use my utmost Endeavours to get
as great a Number of our Bretheren the 6 Nations to join him
1 The N. B. is an entry in the Indian Records, and not part of the
letter.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
3 Guy Johnson, captain of rangers, although he was commissioned a
lieutenant in December 1 759.
86 Sir William Johnson Papers
early next Spring as possibly I can; this I shall endeavr. to do &
would be glad of your Advice & assistance therein which by this
Belt of Wampum I desire you as our steady Friends will afford me.
a Belt.
Bretheren
As you are all accquainted with the cruel & unprecedented
Murder of John Mc.Mickingx one of our People by a Cayouga
Indian near Fort Stanwix who he employed to escourt him to
Fort Herkemaar — I shall not repeat the disagreable Circumstances
to you as I am sensible it affects you as well as me. I would now
ask your Opinion what are the properest Steps to take in the
Affair, as it will always have great Weight with me.
3 Strings
Bretheren
I lately received these Strings of Wampum from the Oniedas
by Cap*. Fonda, by which they say I am invited to a Meeting
proposed to be held soon at Onondaga where you are also desired
to Attend. I am ready & willing to go if you think it will be for
the Good of His Majestys Service. At the same time I must observe
to you that I think it an unprecedented manner of inviting either
you or me without some of the Onondagas coming down with it as
usual. I nevertheless submit to your Judgement as being better
accquainted with their Forms, & expect you will give it me as
well as your [opinion]2 of the properest Steps for me to take in
order to get what Prisoners of ours may be amongst the several
Nations.
3 Strings Wampum
After this Sir William told them what News was stirring
amongst us of our several Successes by Land & Sea which gave
great Satisfaction to them all. then he ordered them some Liquor
& left them to consider of the several Matters he had laid
before them.
1 John McMickel. See Thomas Butler to Johnson, Dec. 29, 1 758,
ante, p. 82, for details.
2 Omitted in manuscript.
Seven Years' War 87
The same day Tarrawarriax & another Seneca Sachem came
to Sir William at Brandts1 house & told him that the Messengers
he had sent last Fall among the Chenundadus & Ottowawas,
were returned, and that he would soon be Accquainted with
the [ir] Answer they had brought from said Nations, that he
Tarrawarriax & his Party would come to Sir William in the
Spring & go with him against the Enemy, he made an Apology
at the same time for his not coming on his former Invitation &
said he was hindered by the Sachems.
Sir William thanked him & told him he expected he would
come according to his Promise & assured him he & his party
should be well cloathed &c. as well as all others who should join
His Majestys Arms. He gave them some Cloathing, Money for
Provisions & an order to Mr. Visger at the German Flatts for a
Keg of Rum on their Journey homewards, so parted very well
pleased.
1 9 Janry. — The Sachems being met at the Council room sent to
accquaint Sir William, they were ready to give him their Answer
to what he had laid before them, on which he with the same
Gentlemen who Attended him Yesterday went to the Meeting,
when Arogheyadecka alias old Brandt Chief of Connojohary
spoke as follows
Brother Warraghyjagey
We are much obliged to you for giving us such early notice of
the Generals Desire & Intentions and we hope & wish that he may
be ready to take the Feild very early which in our Opinion is what
should always be done. You may depend upon our Attachment &
assistance, being determined as we declared to you in the begin-
ning of this War, to stand or fall with you, and as you desired
our Opinion with regard to the 5 Nations, We have considered
of it & think it best that you call their Sachems, Chief Warriors
& leading Women down to your House as soon as may be where
we shall be ready to Attend & assist you all in our power.
returned the Belt
1 Called Nickus (Nicholas) Brant, or "Old Brant," of Canojoharie.
88 Sir William Johnson Papers
Broth
er
The late Murder of one of our Bretheren near the Carrying
place by one of the upper Nations in the French Interest, gives
us great Concern & think he ought to be severely punished for it,
but as we hope the 5 Nations may now act a better part than they
have hitherto, we would advise you not to say any thing about it
until they come to the Meeting at Your House, and then we think
the milder you speak to them the better at this time, and this is
our Opinion.
returned 3 Strings.
Brother
As for the Strings of Wampum lately sent by the Oniedas to
invite you & us to a Meeting at Onondaga, we think with you that
it was not according to our antient & usual Custom nor was it
even a proper Invitation, We are of Opinion that your inviting
them all to your House is much better & more in Character.
Wherefore we would be very glad you would give them an
Invitation & at the same time send some strings of Wampum
desiring they would bring what Prisoners of our Bretheren may
be among them.
3 Strings Wampum
Brother
We return you hearty thanks for the Confidence you repose
in us & be assured we shall ever study to act so as to continue
your good Opinion of us. We are also thankful to you for the
good News you have yesterday told us & we heartily congratulate
you thereon & hope further Success may attend the Kings Arms.
then ended. —
Sir William told them he approved of their Judgement in the
several Matters considered by them & thanked them for the close
Attention they had given thereto, and in their Presence appointed
4 Men to go to Onondaga with the Belt of Invitation & Strings
desiring the Six Nations to bring down with them what Prisoners
they had amongst them in 20 days. The Embassadors sent were
Seven Years' War 89
2 Senecas, 2 Connojoharys. The old Belt the Seneca was the
Chief they set off Satturday the 20 Janr>\ from Connojohary.
Thus ended.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
L.S.1
Conajohary Janry. 19th. 1759.
Sir/
I have received your Excellency's favour of the 8th. Inst.2
& am now settling some affairs here with respect to the Six
Nations which I hope may be productive of good consequence.
The demand made in my last3 of 4 or 50001. sterling, to enable
me to furnish the Indians with the requisites for the ensuing
campaign, was as near as I could Judge the Sum absolutely
necessary to answer that purpose. I have formerly had occasion,
and received warrants for the same sum, when our Affairs bore
not so favourable an aspect, and when consequently we could not
expect the assistance of so many Indians as we now have reason
to hope for, from the success of the last Campaign. It was always
my study to lighten the ace*, of Indian expences as far as possible
with good policy, & should be glad it were now in my power to
lessen the demand, but, am certain it cannot be done consistent
with the good of the service if we consider the expence attending
the fitting out a body of Indians with all manner of necessaries
for service, presents to be made to leading men among them, &
their families, Salaries to Officers, and many occasional expences
which do not imediately occurr. The prudent measures already
taken by your Excellency for the security of this Country will
I hope have the desired effect, & in a great measure prevent the
apprehensions of its Inhabitants, who were before in a very de-
fenceless scituation. — It is as yet imposssible for me to transmit
your Excellency, the determinate number of Indians which I
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 See Johnson Papers, 3:16.
3 Johnson to Amherst, Dec. 26, 1758, Johnson Papers, 3:13-15.
90 Sir William Johnson Papers
may prevail upon to engage for the purposes of the ensuing
Campaign, as they are a people under little, or no subordination,
and upon all such occasions are so very deliberate, that we must
wait the result of their meetings to Judge with any exactness of
the number; to ascertain which, as well as in order to settle
several other affairs with them, I propose imediately, to call a
meeting of the 6. Nations, from which I hope to know what
number may be expected to joyn his Majesties Arms the ensuing
Season, the result of which Meeting I shall imediately com-
municate to you
I am,
with great respect,
Sir,
Your Excellency's most obedient
&
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellcy. Major General Amherst
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from Mr. Croghan, Dep>\ Agent dated
Philadelphia Jany. 30ih. 1759.
'You desire to know what may be expected from the southern
Indians next Campaign, it is very hard to form any Judgement,
there has been such differences betwixt them & us this last Cam-
paign; There has been with General Forbes in the whole about
700 Indians and he tells me they have cost him, between 8, and
9000k besides their provisions and have done him no manner of
service; they are in my opinion but poor Warriors, and they
have been as ill managed. The people of Virginia differed with
several parties of them returning home the last Summer & killed
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson
to Amherst, Feb. 22, 1759, post p. 102.
Seven Years' War 91
about 40 of the Cherokees, and the General last Fall ordered all
the Guns and Cloathing to be taken from the Chief of the Cherokee
Indians little Carpenter and his party, when they were going home;
These differences I fear will not tend to our advantage, Nothing
in my opinion could prevent a War with the Southern Indians but
our Success at Ohio, and it yet depends much on our keeping
possession of what we so luckilly got. —
I have had little, or no Conversation with the General, since I
wrote you from Raystown, he seems very backward in doing
any thing in Indian affairs, and in my opinion this is the only time
to engage the Western Indians in his Majesties Interest, but that
cannot be done without expence, what General Amherst will do,
I can't say, he is expected here in a few days, I offered my service
to go back to Ohio, but Gen1. Forbes did not think proper to
send me.
"Here are five Indians of the six Nations in Town from the
Ohio, they have been here 10, Days and the General has not
yet condescended to see them, or hear their business, nor do I
think he will till Gen1. Amherst comes, I have spoke to those
Indians & find they are only come down after me and those
Indians with me, to know if the Six Nations be determined to
join the English heartily this next Campaign, if so, they say the
Ohio Indians will do the same; They tell me that there are about
400 French on the Ohio, at the three upper Forts; They are
very busy employing the Indians to hunt for them, and purchasing
all the Indian Corn they can get at the several Indian Towns,
which is what we ought to have done, as employing the Indians
that way would be engaging them in his Majesties Service. I am
of opinion if we can take the field this Spring before the French
that the Indians on Ohio will Join us, but if the Enemy take the
Field first I dread the consequence, for I think the Indians will
not stand idle Spectators, and see us and the Enemy carrying on
a war in their Country, without being concerned on the one side
or the other.
The People of this Province are all running wild after the
Indian Trade, tho' we have not secured the possession we hcve
92 Sir William Johnson Papers
taken, and I fear they will persuade the General that he need not
be at any expence with the Indians, but I think it is too soon to
shake off that expence considering the Enemy are still in their
Country, & I think the greatest care should be taken to put the
trade on a good footing; If I continue this way you'll please to
give me your directions how to act, as the Indians will expect me
to see Justice done to them. I have advanced about 5001 for in-
telligence, and fitting out the Indians I joyned the General with,
he has not settled my account yet, and if he should not, it will
distress me a good deal. Inclosed is all the orders I had from
him, and I am told he intends You are to settle it."
INDORSED:
Extracts from Mr. Croghan's
Letter to Sir Wm. Johnson
Recd with Sr. Wm. Johnsons
of the 22d Feb'y 1 759.
FROM THOMAS BUTLER
Contemporary Copy1
Arrived here Canaghiyagey an Onondaga Indian from
Ganaghskaragey with several of said Nation, and brought Sir
William two Letters from Cap*. Thomas Butler posted at Fort
Stanwix, copys of which are as follows.2
Fort Stanwix 30 Jany. 1759.
Sir
I received yours dated at Connojohary the 20. wherin I find
youd have me employ some trusty Indians to find out the Truth
of the Report which has been of an Army assembling near
Sweegachie. I could think of none more to be depended on for
that purpose that [than?] those living at Kanissaragha, to whom
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 This material prefacing the letter is the entry dated Feb. 5, 1 759, in
the Indian Records.
Seven Years' War 93
I sent some Strings Wampum desiring they would go on that Er-
rand & to set out from their Castle, of which I accquainted you in a
Letter of the 15. And am now to let you know that the 25
several young Men of that place came here on the above Message
& offered their Service to go. Accordingly I compleatly fitted
out 4 of them who left this the day before Yesterday & propose be-
ing here again in about 20 days, they have promised faithfully to
go into Sweegachy & bring certain Accounts of what the French
are doing there. You mention the Indians have made several Com-
plaints to you of the Abuse they meet with here in Trade. They
must have very wrong informed you for all that have been to this
since the the Death of Mc. Michael is a very triffle excepting a
Seneca Man & his Wife with a little Boy, had with them the
Value of 6 or £ 7. and as no Trader was here for the Indians & no
body chusing to sell them Rum, Since they could have more of the
white People for it, in order they should not go away without get-
ting what they came for, desired one Straider to trade with them
and either Cap1. Wendal or I was always present. I could not con-
stantly attend on Account of Indians in my House but am sure
they were well used & went away pleased. This Strader has
bought nothing since but two Bever Skins & a Bear Skin, the
Beavers I weighed for which he gave 1 2/ "p & 1 6/. for the Bear
Skin all in Cash to an Indian that was here who bought rum for it
at 3/ ^ Quart & sent his Wife a Suttling to Onieda, when very
like they met with Water as they commonly do. They once in a
While buy a Loaf of Bread which costs them a Shilling. One
Nieukerk & his Partner who bought Mc.Mickels Effects are now
the only Traders, they came here the 9 Inst. & as yet have got
nothing except a little Cash of the Indians living here chiefly for dry
Goods. Several Indians come here but all for Provisions & so poor
that I have not had it in my power to buy myself a pair of Shoes,
and have several times asked the Indians why no Trade comes to
this. They tell the upper Nations are Affraid since the Murder
of Mc.Micking, but will all go to the Flatts, and as for the other
Nations they have nothing. I had an Oppertunity of buying 3
pair of Shoes for the Sweegachy Scout of an old Fellow belong-
94 Sir William Johnson Papers
ing to their Castle, for which I gave 20/ in Money, as he would
not sell them Cheaper. The Bearer of this is Karayaga who is
going down to your House.
I am &c.
Thos. Butler
FROM THOMAS BUTLER
Contemporary Copy1
another of same date2
[Fort Stanmx Jan. 30, 1759]
Sir
I send you this Line just after sealing the other of this date
to accquaint you that a Young fellow of the Onieda Nation came
here, who says that two Men belonging to their Castle were
lately arrived from Sweegachy, their names are Assuntia &
Taneatorass who brings Accounts that Anourisha of Kanissa-
dage — a Castle next to Caghnawaga in Canada — at the Head of
20 more of his Nation were arrived at Sweegachies & designed
soon to set off for this place for scalping &c. but dont say whether
they are to be joined by the Indians of that place or not — that no
preparations were making there for an Attempt upon this post —
that the French were in great Fear of us & were very buisy at
work in fortifying & building Vessells &c. I refer you to the bearer
Naraghga3 for further particulars & beg leave to Subscribe my self
&c.
Thos. Butler
P. S. The Bearer was present
when the News was told.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Entry in Indian Records referring to Johnsbn from Thomas Butler,
Jan. 30, 1 759, ante, p. 92, establishing date of letter.
3 Karayaga, or Canghiyagey.
Seven Years' War 95
FROM JELLES FONDA
Contemporary Copy1
Arrived the Two Messengers that were sent from Connojohary
to Onondaga with the Belt of Invitation and brought with them
the hereafter inserted Letter from Cap1. Fonda posted at Fort
Herkemaar to Sir William Johnson.2
Fort Herkemaar 31 Janry. 1759
Hond Sir
Just now came two Mohocks who went up with the Belt to
Onondaga. They say that the Bunt3 told them, there would cer-
tainly come a French Army this Winter when the Snow is hard
to Fort Stanwix, as the Snow Shoes, Indian Sledges & small Cags
to put their Liquor in were ready when the Bunt passed Swee-
gachy. He says that the Two Indians who Killed Mc. Michael
were sent from Sweegachie to measure the Ditch round Fort
Stanwix & that the French design to Scale the Fort.
The above Indians say that there two Onieda Indians from
Sweegachie at Onieda & were to go back there soon. I propose
to send an Indian there tomorrow Morning to hear what News
they brought & if worth while shall directly let you know. I refer
the whole to the Bearer & am
&c. &c.
Jellas Fonda
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Prefatory material is entry in Indian Records dated Feb. 2, 1 759.
3 An Onondaga sachem.
96 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York 2d. February J 7 59.
Sir
As I find by your Letter of the 1 9th Ultmo2 that Your former
demand of four or five thousand pounds, to enable you to furnish
the Indians with the requisites for the ensuing Campaign, cannot
admit of any Abatement, and that you formerly had occasion,
and received Warrants for the Same Sum, when our affairs bore
not so favorable an Aspect, and when Consequently we could
not Expect the Assistance of so many Indians, as we have now
reason to hope for, from the Success of the last Campaign ; I Shall
certainly make no Scruple of Ordering a Warrant to be made out
in Your Name for the Above Sum; my reason, as I told you
before for desireing that that demand might be lessen'd was owing
to the Military Chest not being overstock'd at present, but that
must not by any means prevent us from using all our Influence
and endeavours to procure as many Indians, as possibly can be
got, to Join and Assist us in the Operations of the ensuing Cam-
paign, I trust therefore and Join with you in hope that the
Affairs which You were Settling with the Six Nations may be
productive of good Consequences and bring over to His Majestys
Interest, as many Indians as You seem to Expect from the above
Circumstances; the Number of which I shall be glad to know,
so soon as the meeting, which you propose to have with the Six
Nations, is over, for Your Success in which You have my Sin-
cerest Wishes.
The Ship which has the Money on board to recruit the Military
Chest, being daily Expected I must defer granting the Warrant
till it's arrivall which I hope will be Shortly.
I am &ca.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Johnson to Jeffery Amherst, Jan. 19, 1758; see ante, p. 89.
Seven Years' War 97
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Fort Johnson, Feb. 3-10, 1759]
3 Febry. Peter, Jacob & another Aughquaga Chief came here
with their Familys & accquainted Sir William that they were in
a starving Condition for the want of Provisions having no Corn
nor any thing else to live upon, also begged for Amunition.
Sir William gave them 1 3 Dollars to buy them some Corn &c.
also gave them Amunition & some Cloaths being very naked & so
discharged them.
5 Febry. — Skanarady, Teughsaragarat & Ottrawanio, Three
Chiefs of the Cayouga Nation arrived here with several more &
after they were introduced by Clement the Interpreter, began
& said.
Brother Warraghyjagey
the unhappy Murder of one of our Bretheren lately at the
Onieda Carrying place, is the occasion of our coming down at
this severe Season of the Year, would2 nation would not be at
rest or easy until they had spoke to You about it. We now in
their behalf wipe away the Tears from your Eyes so that you may
look pleasant at us, likewise remove all Obstructions, & clear your
Throat so that you may speak clear & friendly to us — lastly we
Wipe away the Blood of our Brother lately killed near the
Carrying place & that the sight of it may no longer give us Concern.
3 Strings of Wampum
Sir William told them that he would be ready the next Morn-
ing to hear what they had farther to say & would desire his
Neighbours the Mohocks to Attend.
6 Febry. — About 20 Mohocks arrived, the Cayougas being
accquainted Sir William was ready with the Mohocks & Two
Onondagas to hear them, They entered the Council room &
Skanarady spoke as follows
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 Our (?).
98 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother Warraghyjagey
On our arrival yeaterday we wiped the Tears from your Eyes
&c. and we now agreable to the Custom of our Forefathers take
the French Hatchet (which they gave to one of our foolish de-
luded young Men, giving him great rewards & making him large
Promises if he would use it against our Bretheren the English) out
of your Head & bury it in a deep Pool where it can never be
found, also with this Belt of Wampum we assure you it gives
our Nation as much Concern as it can you, & we promise the
greatest Care shall be taken to prevent the like happening for the
future
A Black & white Belt.
Brother
With this Belt we cover his Grave that the Sight of it may no
longer give you or us Concern
a white Belt.
Brother
With these Strings we raise up your Head now hanging down
with Concern for the loss of one of our Bretheren & beg you
will no longer keep Sorrow in your Mind.
3 Strings Wampum
Brother
Lastly we most earnestly entreat you that you will not for
what has happened neglect the Management of our Affairs, as
your neglect of them [of] at any but more particularly at this
time must render us unhappy & throw the Confederacy in Con-
fusion.
A Belt of black & white Wampum
Sir William answered
Bretheren of Cayouga
I have heard what you have by these Belts said & I shall only
now tell you that I shall defer entering into the affair until the
Five Nations are Met which I expect will be soon as I have in-
Seven Years' War 99
vited them all here, then You & they will hear what I have to
say on the Subject & your Belts shall be laid by safe until then.
Sir William gave them in private a very severe Lesson & ad-
vised them speedily to return all the Prisoners they had in their
Country otherwise they could not be deemed Friends any longer.
They in answer assured Sir William that what Prisoners were
among them had been given them by the Delawares &c. to replace
some of their People who died & were killed by the Flat heads
& that they would as soon as the Weather admitted of it deliver
them all up to us.
thus ended.
Febfy. 9. — Sir William sent Cap1. Lotteridge, Lieu1. Claas &
Clement the Interpreter to accquaint the Mohocks that he wanted
a party of their Young Men to go on a Scout to Tionderogo or
Crown point & endeavour to bring him a French Prisoner, he
also spoke to Abraham Chief of the Mohocks who came that day
to his House, about it & desired he would encourage the Young
Men to the utmost of his power to undertake it which he promised
& then went away.
Eod. Die — Caraghigaey an Onondaga with others of his
Nation went to Schenectady with an order from Sir William to
join John Van Sys1 Gun Smith to mend their Arms Hatchets &c.
Cap1. Lotteridge with the rest returned from the Mohocks &
report that at a Meeting with those of the Mohocks who were at
home they agreed to go on a Scout towards Canada in order to
get a Prisr. if possible but desired Sir William would send a good
Strong Party on that Service as a small Parties are liable to be cut
off. also desired to Know when they were to march.
1 0 Febry. — Sir William sent Clement the Interpr. to acquaint
then that he proposed going to Connojohary on the Morrow in
order to get some Men from that Castle to join them, and would
also send Cap*. Butler to Schohary to bring some of the Young
Men from that Settlement in order to make out a good Party &
that he hoped to have them all ready in four or five days —
1 John Van Seice
100 Sir William Johnson Papers
INSTRUCTIONS FOR JOHN BUTLER
Contemporary Copy1
[Fort Johnson], Feb'y. 10, 1759.
Instructions to Cap1 John Butler going to Schohary.
You are to proceed to Schohare & there call the Indians together
immediately & let them know by this String of Wampum that I
want as many of their best young Men to join the Mohocks of
both Castles with Cap1. Lotteridge on a Scout to Tionderogo, as
can be got, and let those who incline to go on said Service take
their Snow Shoes with them & accompany you hither if possible
so as to be ready to march in 5 days.
The Indians of that Town having complained to me lately of
one Becker a German keeping & planting some of their Land
contrary to their Inclination, you will examine said Becker con-
cerning it & see whether he has any Title to it.
Lastly you are to take an account of what Indians & their
Number that want Provisions at & about that Settlement & on
your return to make me a report of the whole.
I am yours
W. Johnson
INSTRUCTIONS FOR JOHN LOTTRIDGE
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 18 Febry. 1759.
You are to take this Party of Indians under your Command
& care & with them proceed to Fort Edward2 thro the Woods
the nearest way. if between this place & that you should discover
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
2 For Edward (Fort Lyman) located on the east bank of the Hudson
River, 66 miles north of Albany, was called Fort Lydius by the French.
After Johnson defeated Dieskau in 1 755, he changed the name to Fort
Edward. For a time the fort was neglected. However in 1 759 it was
repaired and reinforced by Lieutenant Colonel Eyre. The walls of the
fort, which consisted of two bastions and two half-bastions, were made
JOHN BUTLER
Portrait by an unknown artist. In the
Canadian Archives
Seven Years' War 101
any Body of the Enemy marching towards our Settlements you
are to send me Word by a Couple of brisk Indian Runners &
proceed with the rest.
When at Fort Edward you are to wait on the Commanding
Officer of that Garrison & let him know the Service you are
going upon & should he think proper to reinforce you with a Body
of good Rangers, in such case you are to endeavour to keep up a
good Understanding between them & the Indians & act in con-
cert as well as possible.
You will apply to the Commanding Officer there for what Pro-
visions are necessary for the Scout & the same on your Return
also for Snow Shoes &c. should any happen to break, from thence
you are to march to the French Fort at Tionderogo in such manner
as not to be discovered always keeping proper Scouts advanced
& Sentrys where you halt or encamp to prevent your being sur-
prized. If you should in your way meet or discover any Party of
the Enemy not too much Superior to yours in Number you will
no doubt attempt cutting them off if not & you arrive near the
Enemys Fort you are to make the best Disposition you can with
the Advice of the Leaders of the Indians & the Officers of the
Rangers, to draw out part of the Garrison by sending a few of
the Indians to kill or take any who may be out of the Fort & then
they retreat to the main Body which should form such an Ambus-
cade as that the retreating Party may lead the Enemy between
two Fires & they form at the rear of the Ambuscade & fire at the
Enemys Front. If this method should not be found practicable,
you are to consult what other Measures are best or most likely to
assure your Success. Above all things you are to endeavour for a
good Prisoner that the General by thereby learn the Enemies
Designs or gain some Intelligence of their Motions. If you get
such you are to bring him to the Commanding Officer at Fort
Edward to be examined first by him & next by the General. If the
General should have no Objection to it I would then have you
of timber and earth. It had a broad rampart, a bomb proof, a deep
fosse, with drawbridge, a covered way and a glacis. The fort was located
directly on the bank of the river, and several block houses stood near.
102 Sir William Johnson Papers
bring the Prisoner to me as the Indians will all expect to see him.
Lastly you are to keep an exact Journal of your Scout & make
the best remarks you possibly can of the Enemys Numbers, Situa-
tion & Works so as to enable you to give a proper Report of the
Whole on your Return which I wish may be Successful
I am
Sir Your Hum serv*.
WM. Johnson
Coll.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
L. S.1
Fort Johnson 22. Febry 1759
Sir
I am honoured with Your Favour of the 1 1 Inst by Mr.
Wraxall.
I hope Your orders for the purchase of good light Arms for
the Indians, will be effected, for tho I have on other Occasions,
& I did propose on this, to obtain as many as I could amongst the
Indians, yet it is but a precarious Dependance, and will probably
at best leave me short of the requisite number of this necessary
Article — besides the Nature of this Service requires a constant
Stock of Arms at hand to answer accidental Demands. The best
Indian Arms are slight, & the Indians, especially when in Liquor,
are very careless & frequently break, loose or sell them, which
amongst many other Irregularities, is beyond my Influence to
prevent. I proposed both to My Lord Loudoun & Gen. Aber-
cromby, that a Number of Indian Arms as well as an assortment
of Indian goods, should be imported from England, and to re-
main here as a resource upon proper Occasions, and told them,
this Method would be a considerable saving to the Crown: My
Lord Loudoun approved my Proposal, and had the List of an
Assortment from me, but I heard no more of it.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; in handwriting of
Peter Wraxall.
Seven Years' War 103
There was an act of the Assembly of this Province, to prevent
any Persons from purchasing, taking in Pledge, or exchanging
Arms, Amunition or Cloathing belonging to Indians; which Act
is expired, and as these iniquitous Dealings are still carried on,
greatly to the Loss of the Crown & prejudice to the Indian Service,
more especially at this Juncture, I would be glad Your Excellency
mentioned the revival of such an Act to the Lieu1. Governor, &
to be made as strong & explicit as possible.
Since my last to your Excellency, I have received a Letter1
from my Deputy Mr. Croghan, Extracts from which I think proper
to transmit you, as I conceive they relate to Subjects the importance
of which makes it my Duty to do so.
I hope the Slaughter of the Cherokee Indians he mentions, is
or may be compromised, or I fear it will be attended with very
serious Consequences to some of the Southern Governments, and
perhaps be of extensive prejudice to His Majestys Indian Interest
in general.
The present favorable Prospect of re-establishing & extending
our Interest & Influence amongst the Western Indians, (if the
Improvement of it be thought an eligible & interesting Measure)
I think with Mr. Croghan, ought not to be delayed or neglected,
either by Inattention or an ill-timed Parsimony. In the Light I
view it, the Security & Extension of our Indian Interest in those
parts, appears a matter of very great Moment, not only to the
Tranquility of our Southern Provinces, but to that great End
for which we are now contesting with the French.
Trade with the Indians is one of the chief means by which we
may expect to obtain & retain Them in our Interest, great Irregu-
larities have formerly been committed in this Article; and these
have very much tended to weaken our Interest amongst them.
In the late Treaty at Easton, Your Excel?, may have seen,
that the Western Indians were promised a Trade should be
opened; and I learn from Mr. Croghan, that Col. Bouquet has
promised them the same, in the name of Brigr. Forbes. If this is not
1 Croghan to Johnson, Jan. 30, 1 759, ante, p. 90.
104 Sir William Johnson Papers
fulfilled & an equitable Trade established with a plentiful &
proper Supply of Goods, we shall in my humble Opinion, soon
loose all those pleasing hopes which are expected from the late
Easton Treaty, and those favorable Dispositions which Mr.
Croghan intimates from the Western Indians. The Gov. of
Pensilvania did some time ago pass an Act of their Assembly
with regard to the Indian Trade, and if the Spirit of that Act is
righteously kept up to, I hope the good Consequences of it will
be speedily felt ; for I am convinced Trade is one of the strongest
Cements to bind our Indian Connexions.
I thought it my Duty to lay before Your Excellency, my Senti-
ments upon the aforesaid Extracts of Mr. Croghan's Letter to me.
I have done it in a general way & as concisely as I could, that I
might give You as little Interruption as possible. As Mr. Croghan
mentions You are soon expected at Philadelphia, and as Brigr.
Forbes declines giving him any Direction or Orders with regard
to his Proceedings, and as I sent him to the Westward at the
earnest Desire of Mr. Forbes & Gov. Denny,1 who have hitherto
given the Lead to his Conduct, I am at a loss to give him more
than general Instructions. I shall write him on your arrival to
inform You of all his Transactions & to follow such Orders as he
may receive from You, on which Account, I hope your Excelb.
will not think the above Observations which I have offered to your
perusal, ill-timed or Impertinent.
The 6 Nations are not yet come down, the Weather has been
extreamly bad for several days, but I hope when it clears up
I shall soon see them.
I am most respectfully
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
and most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
1 See John Forbes to William Denny, Aug. 26, 1 758, Johnson Papers,
9:970. '
Seven Years' War 105
To His Excellency
Major General Amherst
&c &c
INDORSED :
Sr Wm Johnson 22d Febr
Reed 2d March
Ans< 5*. J 759
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Feb. 11-23, 1759.
1 1 . Febry. — Sir William set out for Connojohary with Cap*.
Johnson & Lotteridge & sent Clement the Interpreter with Taquia-
nunt a Mohock Chief by the way of Stoneraby to tell all the
Indians around that Settlement to meet him next day at Conno-
johary.
Monday 1 2. — Eight at night being all assembled Sir William
told them that the reason of his coming to their Castle was to get
a Number of their briskest Men to join Cap1. Lotteridge & some
of the Mohocks & Schoharys on a Scout to Tionderogo or Crown
Point in order to see what the Enemy was about & get him a
Prisoner from whom he might be able to get better Intelligence
than he daily receives and which would enable the General to take
proper Measures for the defence of the Country until the Opening
of the Campaign — and that they would be ready in two days
to set off from his House where they would be supplied with every
necessary for such a Service —
A Painted War Belt thrown to them.
The Belt was no sooner cast among them than Senughsias a
Chief of the Bear Tribe arose, took the Belt in his hand & sung
his War Song & was followed by several more of each Tribe —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5.
106 Sir William Johnson Papers
then Oraghiadecka the Chief Sachem of that Castle stood up
& said
Brother Warraghyjagey
We the Sachems & Warriors of the Connojahary Castle im-
mediately quitted our Hunting on your Call & made all the haste
possible to meet you here, where are are all heartily glad to see
you & in answer to your desire without any Hesitation I am
desired by the Young Men present to tell you they will be ready
to go with Cap1. Lotteridge and the Mohocks &c. on the Service
you require & we have no reason to doubt you will in their Absence
take care of their Familys who are extreamly poor & in great
want of Provisions.
Here returned the War Belt.
Sir William thanked them for the readiness they showed on
this Occasion & told them he would give their Families some
Provisions in their Absence or Money to purchase it so that they
should not suffer, he gave them an Entertainment as usual on
such Occasions & so parted, he left that Castle Tuesday Morn«.
& arrived at Fort Johnson that night.
Whilst he was at Connojohary Sir William received a Letter
from Cap1. Fonda posted at Fort Herkemaar for the regulation
of Trade & procuring what Intelligence he possibly could of the
Enemys Designs & Motions accquainting him that some Onon-
dagas who arrived there told him the Senecas, Cayougas &c.
were daily expected at their Castle in order to come to the Meeting
proposed by Sir William at his house.
16. Febry. — Twenty two Warriors arrived here with several
Women &c. from Connojohary & the 1 7. fourteen Schoharys
arrived with several of their Women & Children also — they
came on his call in order to go on a Scout to Tionderogo or Crown
Point — the next day Sir William accquainted the Mohocks with
the arrival of the above Indians & desired they would be ready
as soon as possible to set out on the proposed Scout, they answered
Seven Years' War 107
they would make all Dispatch possible & be ready to set off the
1 8 or 19. The 1 8. they were detained by the Death of a young
Mohock who buried that day.
The Whole Party was ready the 19. but were detained till
the 23 Febry by rainy & bad Weather, that day 44 Indians with
Cap'. Lotteridge set out for Tionderoga.
N.B. a Difference happened between the Mohocks & Connojo-
harys wch. diminished the intended party. —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
Feb. 24-March /. 1759
24 Febry. — 1 1 More Indians went out on the Scout to Tionde-
rogo &c. Thicked neck Thomas Cheif of the Party.
1 March — 14 Mohock Indians set off for Tionderogo & Crown
point against the Enemy.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy
New York 5th. March 1759
Sir
I had by last post Your Letter of the 22d of February, Ac-
quainting me that altho' You did propose to obtain among the
Indians as Many light Arms as You could, Yet it was but a
precarious depandence, I shall therefore send You as Many
light ones as I Shall have been able to Collect against the March-
ing of the 44th Reg1 which will be in three or four Days, and may
be about 200 in Number.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 5. This is the last
chronological entry in Vol. 5 of the Indian Records. The fact that there
is a two-year hiatus between this entry and the first entry of Vol. 6 suggests
that one, or perhaps two folios of the Indian Records for this period
have been lost.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
108 Sir William Johnson Papers
What you mention in regard to a Number of Indian Arms
as well as an Assortment of Indian Goods to be imported from
England & to remain here as a resource upon proper occasions,
I entirely approve of, and when ever you furnish me with such a
list I will Transmitt it to the Kings Ministers, that you may be
provided therewith upon future Occasions.
I Shall not fail to recommend to the Lieut. Governor the re-
vival of the Act which you Mention to be Expired, and I hope
with good Effect, as I am convinced of the Necessity & useful-
ness of such a Law.
I am obliged to You for the Extracts from Mr Croghan's
Letter. I propose soon to Sett out for Philadelphia, whither I
have called the Governors in order to Settle the Indians Affairs,
and when there I hope we Shall together be so fortunate as to Settle
every thing to the best Advantage & bring about such a Trade
with the Indians as may fix them entirely to our Interest, but in
this I cannot do anything untill the Governors are Assembled,
meanwhile I doubt not but Col°. Bouquet (for Brigr. Forbes is so
ill that he is not able to give any directions) will in every thing
advise Mr Croghan for the best and give him all the Assistance
he can. —
I am &c. —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
L.S.1
Fort Johnson 7th. March 1759.
Sir
As I must purchase at Newyork, and Philadelphia sundry
Goods necessary for the Indians against the approaching Cam-
paign, in order to get the proper kinds, and at the cheapest Rates,
I have dispatched Mr. Ferral Wade, who will have the Honour
do deliver your Excellency this Letter. — He is very well
acquainted with the Assortment, and prices of Goods proper for
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years* War 109
Indians, and in Consequence of this Commission I have given him,
I beg the Favour of you to order a Warrant to be made out to
him for Two Thousand Pounds Sterling, and for which I shall
be accountable in my Acco*. of Indian Expences, And I must
beg your Excellency will transmit me an other Warrant for
£ 3000 Sterling. I am in Advance near £ 1 800 Curry, and my
own ready Money is thereby exhausted. — daily small Demands
are coming upon me, particularly for the Support of such Indians
and their Families who joined His Majesties Arms last Cam-
paign, and are by the failure of their Crops of Indn. Corn which
is this Year General in these parts, and Obstructions arising from
the Situation of public Affairs here, reduced to great Want and
Distress.
If you please to order a Sample of the light Arms you propose
for the Indians to be shown to Mr. Wade, he will tell your Excel-
lency whether they will answer.
I am
With the utmost Respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
To His Excellency
Major General Amherst
1 1 0 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JACOB GLEN
Copy1
Fort Johnson 14th March 1759
Sir
I have received your Actt. and your son in laws, also an Actt.
of the late Captn McGinnis,2 all of which shall be adjusted, &
discharged in a verry little time.
I would have you gett me a Return of the Albany Battallion
as Soon as possible, I have got one of this Battallion which is but
verry weak. I want to transmit them Both to ye. Govr.
I am Sr.
Your Welwisher
& Sincere Freind
WM Johnson
Lieut CoLL Glen
1 In New York State Library.
2 Captain William McGinnis who was killed at the battle of Lake
George, Sept. 8, 1 755.
Seven Years' War 1 1 1
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Nev> York, J 8th March 1759.
Sir
Mr. Wade2 delivered me Your Letter of the 7th. Instant, on
Tuesday last, when I immediately granted him the Warrant for
£2000 Sterling, which You desired he might have for the pur-
chase of Sundry Goods necessary for the Indians against the
Approaching Campaign; And this day I have granted another
for £ 3000 Sterling on Account of the same Services, in Your own
Name, which I have sent to Mr. Mortier, that he may make out
the Proper Receipts for, and transmit the Same to You for Your
Signature, in Order to give you a Credit for its Amount, either
at Philadelphia, here, or at Albany, whichever You please; but
as the Ship Expected from England with Money, is not yet Ar-
rived, I must beg that You will pospone as long as possible, the
Claiming the Payment of that Warrant, as the Acquittal of it,
at this time, or before the Military Chest is Recruited would
greatly distress other Essential Services.
I had, as I mentioned to You in a former Letter, laid by 200
Good Light Arms, such as I thought would have been fit for
Indians, which, agreable to Your Request, were shewn to Mr.
Wade, who has Chosen 200 Others that are not so good, but
which he thinks better, by reason of their being somewhat Lighter ;
These, according to Promise, have been Sent up by the 44th.
Regiment, the first Detachment of which Embarked Yesterday.
I am
&ca.
To Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ferrall Wade. See Johnson to Amherst, March 7, 1 759, ante, p. 1 08.
1 1 2 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JACOB GLEN
L. S.1
Fort Johnson 26th. March J 7 59.
Sir
I Last night received a Letter from Lieu*. Gov. De Lancey,
also a Proclamation, Act of Assembly, & his Orders for having
as many Men Drafted out of the Regiment of Militia Under My
Command, as will with the Voluntary Inlistments make up the
Number of four Hundred & twenty four Men, which is the Quota
of this County. As my time is, and will be so much taken up in
other parts of his Majestys Service, that I cannot attend to this,
I have herewith sent You the Gov". Orders, Coppy of his Letter,
Proclamation, & Act of Assembly, and must desire & Strongly
Urge your following & fulfilling the said Order agreeable to the
Intent & Meaning thereof & that with the Utmost dispatch &
Equity.
When done, You will make me a Report of the Whole.
I am
Yr. Humble Serv1.
WM. Johnson,
Coll*
To
Lieut. Coll°. Glen
addressed :
On his Majestys Service
To Jacob Glen Esqr
Lieu*. Coll°. of the 1 st. Battallion
In collection of Mrs. Henry M. Sage, Menands, N. Y.
Seven Years' War 1 1 3
FROM JAMES DE LANCEY
D. S.1
[May 19, 1759]
By the Honorable James De Lancey Esqr.
Lieutenant Governor & Commander in Chief
In & over the Province of New York And the
Territories depending thereon in America
Whereas it is expedient in all Times of War that the Militia
should be in Constant Readiness to March but More Especially
so in the present Conjuncture of affairs when, as the Enemy have
a Fleet in the West India Islands, and the Troops are gone up
the Country, the March of the Militia May possibly become
Immediately Necessary for the Defence of the Province.
You are therefore to give Orders that the Field Officers Cap-
tains And One Subaltern Officer, And in Case of the Sickness
or inability of the Captain then Two Subaltern Officers with the
Non Commission Officers of every Company and All the Men
belonging to Each Company in the Regiment under your Com-
mand between the Ages of forty Six and of Twenty Years to
hold themselves in Readiness on the Shortest Notice Each Man
provided with a good Blanket besides good Arms and Accoutre-
ments and a Sufficient Quantity of Ammunition According to
Law, And for this purpose you are forthwith on the Receipt
hereof to Order the Several Captains Or Commanding Officers
to Draw out their Respective Companies under arms to Cause a
Roll to be Made of All Men therein between the Ages of forty
Six and of Twenty Years, to Order All Such to hold themselves
in Readiness to March Well Equip'd and furnished as aforesaid
and to See that every Mans Arms and Accoutrements be good
and Serviceable or forthwith put into good Order or the penalties
for Want thereof Rigorously Levied on the Defalters as the
Law Directs.2
1 In the New York Public Library.
2 From this point on, the document is in De Lancey 's hand.
1 1 4 Sir William Johnson Papers
And you are immediately to send copies of these Orders to
the Lieutenant Colonels or commanding Officers of the two
Battalions who are to see to the due Execution of them and to
march such parts of the Militia as above mentioned as soon as
they shall recieve orders from me or in case of my absence, then
on the requisition of the Commander in Chief of his Majestys
Forces. Given under my hand at New York this Nineteenth
day of May 1 759
James De Lancey
To Sir William Johnson Colonel or the Commanding officer
of the Regiment of Militia in the County of Albany.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 30th. May J 7 59.
Sir
Brigr. Gen1. Prideaux2 having Acquainted me that You had
represented to him, that as You were without Money, and might be
in urgent want of it on the present Occasion, and that as there
was none in the D. P. M. G.'s hands,3 You desired an Order
from me to Authorize You to raise it where You Could ; I have for
Your Security, and that You might Succeed therein the Readier
granted a Warrant in Your Name on the D. P. M. G. for
£3000 Sterle which I here Enclose; but as Our Military Chest
is in the same Situation I mentioned to You before, I must give
You this Caution, that Your presenting that Warrant to Mr.
Mortier before he receives a Supply of Money, will avail You
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Brigadier General John Prideaux; appointed Colonel of 55th regiment,
Oct. 28, 1 758; and Brigadier General May 5, 1 759. He was designated
to command the expedition to Niagara, but was killed in the trenches
during the siege, July 19, 1759, and was succeeded by Sir William
as commander.
3 Deputy Paymaster General, then Abraham Mortier.
Seven Years' War 1 1 5
of nothing, and therefore if You cannot possibly do without the
Money, You must endeavour to get it among Your friends &
Acquaintance, for the reimbursement whereof You have, as I
observed before, that Warrant as a Security.
Brigr. Prideaux likewise informed me that You had recom-
mended Mr. Wm. Hare & Hendrick Nellus for Captains of
Indians, which should have been immediately Complied with,
and Commissions made out for them, had I known the Name of
the Two Officers in whose room they are to be. So soon as You
send one of those Names the Commissions shall be made out &
transmitted to You, meanwhile that no time may be lost, Appoint
them & Employ them as Such.
I am,
&ca —
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
A. L. S.1
Fort Johnson 30th May 1759
Sir/
I have Just now the Honour of Yours of this Ins1.2 by Captn.
Prescott, I also received the Warrant for £3000 Ster's., which
I shall not present to Mr. Mortier untill he receives a Supply of
Money, but will endeavour to get what I want from my Ac-
quaintance.
In my letter of the 28th. to Brigadier Prideaux I recommended
Mr. Wm. Hair, and Hendrick Nellus for Lieuts. of Indians,
being both verry active Young Men, and qualified for Scouting
with them, which will be verry necessary this Campaign. Captn.
Thomas Butler who has been all this Winter Stationed at Fort
Stanwix, and remains there Still, is verry unwell, and will not
as I understand be able to undergo the fatigues of the Campaign,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Amherst to Johnson, May 30, 1759, ante p. 114.
1 1 6 Sir William Johnson Papers
yet may do some other Duty. Captn. Jeles Fonda at the time I
wrote was verry unwell, but is now much better, and I imagine
will be able to do his Duty, however as Mr. Croghan, & Captn.
Montour are to the Southward, I shall Still have occasion for
Mess". Hair, & Nellus, as the few Officers I have (if all in
health) will be Insufficient to manage any considerable number
of Indians. —
I am
most Respectfully
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major Genrl. Amherst
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany May 3K 1759
Sir
Capt. Prescott has just now delivered me Your Letter of
Yesterday,2 Acquainting me as I desired, with the Names of the
two Indian Captains that You before mentioned were so unwell
as not to be able to do any duty this Campaign, and in whose
stead You were desireous Mr. Hare & Mr. Nellus Might be
Appointed Lieut*. ; Agreable to that request I enclose you Com-
missions for those two Gentlemen, by which you will see that I
put them both in the room of Thos. Butler who you still imagine
will not be able to Serve this Campaign, as the other Capt. Mr.
Jelous Fonda You say will, which I am very glad of; my reason
for mentioning them in the body of the Commission in the room
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Johnson to Amherst, May 30, 1 759, ante. p. 115.
Seven Years' War 1 1 7
of Capt. Thomas Butler, is in Order not to encrease the Estab-
lishment, which I do not Chuse to take upon me; as I do not see
any room for giving away the publick Money without the proper
and necessary Service is done for it, these two Lieut3, whose joint
pay is Just the Same as that of Capt. Butler, will receive it in
lieu of him, which will be a saving to the Crown & give You an
additional Officer. I am sorry for Capt. Butlers Situation, but
if his health does not permit him to do his duty, & that without
it the Service must Suffer, I cannot do Otherwise than Appointing
others in his Stead without any additional Expence to the publick ;
if he recovers & You can Employ him otherwise under You
without any encrease of Expence, it will certainly be doing Justice
to give him the preference.
I am &ca —
SR. WM. Johnson Bart.
AN INDENTURE
Contemporary Copy1
[Albany, May 31, 1759]
This Indenture made and concluded this Thirty First Day of
May in the thirty Second Year of the reign of our Soveraign
Lord George the Second by the grace of God of great Brittain
1 Recorded by the then County Clerk in Book 7 ( 1 757-1 768) of the
Records of the Day, pp. 36-7, Albany County Clerk's Office. See Johnson
to Peter Warren, July [22?] 24, 1749, Johnson Papers, 1 :240, where
he mentions buying houses in Albany and Schenectady; Johnson to Peter
Middleton, Sept. 16, 1755, Johnson Papers, 2:46, wherein Johnson
gives Dr. Middleton orders to take the wounded Baron Dieskau to his
(Johnson's) house in Albany; and "Purchase of a House," 1748, John-
son Papers, 9:36. In his will dated Jan. 27, 1 774, (see Stone's Life and
Times of Sir William Johnson, 2:493) Sir William bequeaths "to my
son-in-law, Colonel Daniel Claus, and to his heirs, ... the house and lots
in Albany which I purchased of Henry Holland, together with the
water lot adjoining thereto, which I purchased from the corporation of
Albany, . . ."
1 1 8 Sir William Johnson Papers
France and Ireland King defender of the Faith &ca and in the
Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven hundred and fifty nine
Between the Mayor Aldermen and Commonalty of the City
of Albany of the one part and Sir William Johnson Barn1, of
the County of Albany of the other part Witnesseth that the Said
Mayor Aldermen and Commonalty for and in Consideration
of the Sum of Sixty Six pounds Currency of the province of New
York to them in hand paid at and before the Ensealing and
Delivery hereof by the Said Sir William Johnson the receipt
Where of They do hereby acknowledge and themselves there-
with to be fully Satisfied Contented and paid and there of and
therefrom do fully Clearly and Absolutely Acquit Exonerate
and discharge the Said Sir William Johnson his heirs Executors
Administrators and Assigns for Ever Have Given granted Re-
leased and Confirmed and by these presents do fully Clearly and
Absolutely Give grant release and Confirm unto the Said Sir
William Johnson his heirs and Assigns for Ever a certain Lott
of Ground Lying and being in the Third ward of the City of
Albany near the water Side behinde the Lott of the Said Sir
William Johnson Bounded on the west and South by the Street
and on the North and East by the ground of the Corporation
of the City of Albany and is in Breath on the West in the front
by the Street Thirty three feet and the Same Breath of Thirty
three feet on the East in the rear And in Length on both Sides
from west by the Street to the East in the Rear Sixty feet English
Measure Together with all and Singular the Profitts Comodities
and Appurtenances to the Said Lott of ground Belonging or in
any wise appertaining To have and To hold the above recited
and granted Lott of Ground and premises unto the Said Sir Wil-
liam Johnson his heirs and assigns to the Sole and only Proper
use Benefitt and Behooff of the Said Sir William Johnson his
heirs and Assigns for Ever And the Said Mayor Aldermen and
Commonalty for themselves And their Successors Do Covenant
promise and Agree to and with the Said Sir William Johnson
his heirs Executors administrators and assigns that they the Said
Mayor Aldermen and Commonalty and their Successors Shall
Seven Years' War 1 19
not nor any Other person or persons for them in their names
right or Stead of any of them Shall or will by any Manner of
ways or means hereafter have Claim Challenge or Demand any
Estate right Title or Interest of in or to the premises or any part
or parcel thereof but from all and Every Action Estate right
Title Interest and demand of in or to the premises or any part
or parcel thereof they and Every of them Shall be Utterly Ex-
cluded and Barred for Ever by these presents In Testimony
whereof the Mayor of the Said City hath by Vertue of a resolu-
tion1 Entered in the Minutes of Common Council Bearing Date
the Nineteenth Day of February Last past in behalf of the Said
Mayor Alderman and Commonalty hereunto Sett his hand and
Caused the City Seal of the Said City to be hereunto Affixed and
these presents to be Entered in the Publick records the Day and
Year first Above Written.
Sybrant G. Van Schaick, Mayer
Signed Sealed and delivered
In the presence of
Harmanus Schuyler
John Williams
Recorded in the Clerks office for the City and County of
Albany Book N: 9 page 36 and 37 and I do hereby Certify
to have Examined the Above deed with the Record of the Same
1 In Munsell's Collections on the History of Albany, 1:114, is printed
the resolution as follows:
"At a Common Council held for the City of Albany on the 19 day of
February, 1 759.
Resolved by this Board, That Sr William Johnson, Bar*, may have
the ground behind his house and lott where Patrick Magee has lately
build on, that is to say, the breath of his lott on the street and then sixty
foot long down toward the River at the rate of forty shillings a foot on
the street, and that the Mayor execute a deed for the same in behalf of
the Mayor, Aldermen and Comonalty."
Munsell's Collections, 4:195, shows the location of a city lot owned
by Sir William Johnson at the northeast corner of Broadway and Staat's
Alley (now State Street) .
120 Sir William Johnson Papers
and finding no Material Razurers or Interlineations therein
thirty first Day of May 1 759
ir Ha: GaNSEVOORT Clerk
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fori Johnson Is1 June 1759
Sir
I am Just now honoured with yours of Yesterday, and with it,
the Commissions for two Lieut5, in the Room of Captn. Butler,2
Who has been an Officer all the last, and this War under my
Command, and for whom, Should he recover, I should be glad
to have it in my power to provide. —
As Soon as Brigdr. Genr1. Prideaux Arrives here, I shall be
ready to accompany him as far as Fort Hendrick,3 from whence
I shall March with such Indians as are to meet me there to Fort
Stanwix, where I expect to be Joined by a good many more,
and be ready to move as Soon, as the Battoes can be got over the
Carrying place, Our next Rendezvous will be at Osswego, and
your Excellency may depend upon my doing all in my power
to get as many Indians as I can and make them as usefull, as
possible.
I wish Your Excellency all the Success Imaginable and am
most respectfully
Sir
Your most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
Li- i7 11 WM. Johnson
His Excellency J
Major Genrl. Amherst
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Johnson requested commissions for William Hare and Hendrick Nellus,
see Johnson to Amherst, May 30, 1 759, ante p. 115, and also Amherst to
Johnson, May 31,1 759, ante p. 116.
3 At Canajoharie.
Seven Years' War
121
ARTICLES OF CAPITULATION OF FORT NIAGARA
Contemporary Copy1
[Jul], 24, 1759]
Articles de Capitulation pour
le Fort et la Gamison de
Niagara de Sa Majeste Tres
Chretienne Le Roy de
France.
Art : 1 r. . . La Garnison Sortira avec
Armes et Bagages, Tambour
battante, Meche alumee par
les deux bouts, Une petite
piece de Canon pour S' Em-
barque sur des Voitures qui,
Accorde Seront fournier par Monsieur
Le General de sa Majeste
Brittanique pour etre Con-
duite a la Nouvelle York
par le Chemin le plus Court
et dans le plus court espace
de terns.
2e. . . La Garnison remmetra ses
Accorde Armes en S'embarquant et
Conservera ses bagages.
3e. . . Mess". Les Officiers Conser-
Accorde veront leurs Armes et Equi-
page.
4e. . . Les Dames et Femmes Fran-
chise et leur Enfants qui sont
ici, ainsi qui L'aumonier
Seron renvoyer a Montreal,
et il leur Sera fourni par
Monsieur Le General de sa
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. An English translation
is printed in Doc. Rel. to Col Hist. N. Y., 10:990-92.
122
Sir William Johnson Papers
Accorde, excepte
Celles qui Servoient
Sujet de sa Majeste
Brittanique.
Accorde
Accorde
Tous le Battiman
et Batteaux s o n t
Compris sous cet Ar-
ticle.
Majeste Brittannique, le
Voitures et Subsistance Ne-
cessaire pour le Voyage, et
ce dans le plus court espace
de terns qu'il Sera possible
Jusqu'au premier P o s t e
Francoise Celles qui Voud-
ont Suivre leur Marie seront
les Maitresse.
Les Malade et Blesse Oblige
de rester dans le Fort pour-
ront en Sortir avec tout ce
qu'il leur appartient et Seront
Conduite en Surete, lorsqu'il
Seront en Etat de Supporter
le Voyage, a la destination
du reste de la Garnison. En
Attendant il sera fournie une
Garde pour Veille a leur
Seurete.
Le Commandant et tous les
Omciers de Troupes elle
meme en tout ce qui est au
Service du Sa Majeste tres
Chretienne Sortiront de la
place sans etre Sujet a
Aucun Acte de represaille
de quelque Nature que se
puisse etre, et sous quelque
pretexte que ce Soit.
II Sera fait un Inventaire de
Munition de Guerre qui se
trouveront dans le Magazin,
ensemble L'Artillerie qui
Seven Years' War
123
L'on peut enten-
dre Ceux qui sont
Actuellem*. sur le
platon, les Autres
n'etant point a Notre
Disposition.
Accorde
iCCOY
de
Accorde dans le
lcr Article
Seront remises de bonnefoi
Ainsi que les Autres EfFets
de sa Majeste existant dans
le Magazine Loide1 de la
Capitulation.
8e. Le Soldats et Milicien ne
seront ni depouilles ni Sep-
arer de leur Officiers.
9e. La Garnison sera Conduite
avec une Escorte Jusqu'a
1'endroit destine pour son Se-
jour. Monsieur le General
recommendra expressement a
L'Escorte d'empecher que le
Sauvage n'approchent et
n'insultent tout ce qui Com-
pose le Garnison et ne la
pillent lorsqu'elle quittera ses
Armee et S'embarquera elle
aura le meme Soin le long
de la Route par tout du il
pourra se rencontres des
Sauvages.
10e. II sera fait une Etat exacte
de Nom et Surnom de Sol-
dats de differents troupes,
ainsi que des Miliciens et des
Autres Employe pour Sa
Majeste tres Chretienne les
dits Employer de quel etat
qu il soient conserveront leur
Equipage et auront le meme
sort de la Garnison.
'Lors" intended.
124
Sir William Johnson Papers
Accorde, mais il
est apropos qu'il ta-
chent a le faire en
Cachette.
Pour demain a
Sept heure
1 1 e. Tous les Sauvage da quelque
Nation qu'il soient qui se
trouveront ici ne seront point
Insulte, et Seront point In-
sulter et seron libre de Sortir
du bon leur S'emblera.
Ces Articles Accepte il
Sera livre une parte a
Monsieur le General de sa
Majeste Brittanique ce qui
ne peut etre que demain.
Pouchot, Capitaine du Regf.
de Beam Commandr.
Vitar1 Cap*, au Reg*. La
Sarre.
Servier Capt. dans Roy1.
Roussillon.
Sieur De la Roche Verney
Capt. de Troupes de la
Marine.
Bounaffous, Of f icier du
Corps Roy1, de L'Artillerie
Cousnoyer Ll. des Troupes
detache de la Marine
Soluignac Officer dans Beam
Le Ch,e. De Larminac, Ll.
de la Marine
Joncaire Capt. de la Marine
Morambert Ll.
Chabert joncain dans Gui-
enne
Copy of the Original
Capitulation in Sir Wm.
Johnson's hands.
1 Printed "Vilar" in English translation.
Le Chirurgien qui
reste avec les Mal-
ades en Recomman-
der a Monsr. Le
General
Seven Years' War 125
INDORSED:
Copy Articles of
Capitulation of Garrison
of Niagara 25th July 1 759
Enclosed in Sr. Wm. Johnsons of same day.
N. B. Original Copy sent to Mr. Pitt 5th. August.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Camp at Crown Point 25th Sepr. 1759.
Sir,
This moment are Arrived here accompanied by One Fisher,
a Carpenter Employed at Fort George,2 & who Serves them as
Interpreter, Eight Indians, said to be all from the Lower Castle
of the Mohawks, but as they have no pass from You, and that I
will trust no Body, I shall not let them Stir out of this Camp
untill You Inform me that I may rely upon & Employ them;
their Names are Captain Petrus, Captain Dick, Sett, Nickus,
David, David, Hendrick, & John. —
Colonel Bradstreet having Wrote to me that he has been
desired by some of the Inhabitants of Albany and Schenectady,
to Acquaint me they were desirous of going to Niagara, to trade
with the Indians, and that they beg'd my Leave and pass; In
Answer thereto I told him that I should Communicate that Re-
quest to You, and that if You Approved of those Persons, they
should have my leave & pass for the above purposes ; Accordingly
I Suppose they will Apply to You, and upon Your Recommenda-
tion they shall have passes. I am, with great Regard,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 The name given to the fort erected, in 1 759, by James Montresor,
on the order of Amherst, at the south end of Lake George. (There was
another fort of the same name in New York City.)
126 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Camp at Crown Point 2d. October 1759.
Sir,
On the 30th. I was favor'd with Yours of the 18th. Ultimo
from Oswego, which I take it for granted You have left eere
this, since I find by a Letter of the 1 1 th. of same Month, from
Brigr. General Gage, that he had then already determined not
to take post at La Galette;2 Could I have foreseen that this very
Essential Operation should not have taken place, I should most
certainly have desired Your Company, with what Number of
Indians You could Collect, here, where they might have been
of Service, and have Compensated for the very great Expence
their Subsistence & fitting out Creates to the Public, which, from
the above Resolution, is now become entirely needless, & therefore
I hope that so soon as You have been Acquainted with it, You
will have Stopped those that were still to Join You from coming
forward, and disbanded the Others that were already with You,
as it is now too late for them to Come in any time, to be of Service
at present on this Side. —
Since it will be impossible to buy & get up the Indian Goods
requisite to Induce the Missassagas &ca, to Act offensively for
Us this Campaign before the Rivers freeze, I Approve of your
leaving a proper Person at Niagara for the Winter to transact
Affairs with them, and do everything necessary for the keeping
up that good Understanding, which at present seems to Subsist
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. A portion of this letter
was printed in Johnson Papers, 3:141-143, from P.R.O., CO. 5.56,
with a long indorsement.
2 LaGalette was an Indian settlement on the north bank of the St.
Lawrence river a little below the modern town of Prescott founded by
the French for Indians of the Five Nations whom they had persuaded
to move to Canada under their protection. Fort La Galette was a post
on the south bank, later Fort La Presentation, now the site of Ogdens-
burg, N. Y.
Seven Years' War 127
between Us, untill we can have an opportunity of getting up
such Necessaries as may Induce them to Act Offensively against
the Enemy.
I hope the Party of near Forty Indians and some Whites,
which You have Sent to Oswegatchy1 will Answer Your Ex-
pectations & return with some Prisoners which I shall be glad
to learn from You, as well as any other Intelligence that You
may have to Communicate.
I Am glad to learn that Your Account from Your Deputy
to the Southward relative to our Indian Affairs in that Quarter,
bear so favorable an Aspect. And Surprised that Your Indians
were not returned with Mr. Stanwix's Answer to Your Letter
of the 28th. for he has Acknowledged the Receipt of it to me
ever since the 23d. August, when he was on his departure from
Fort Ligonier for Pittsburgh whence he was to send back the
two Indians.
The Eight Mohawks, which I mentioned to You in mine of
the 25th. not meeting here with so much Rum as they had perhaps
Expected, have soon Wearied of this Place, and as I could not
trust them on any Service, till I knew from You that I might wth.
safety, I have consented to their return home, & have given them
a Pass, with which they set out Yesterday. Altho' I did not
care to Venture them on Service, yet as I did not care to Confine
them to the Camp, I proposed them, by way of Amusement, a
hunting Match of three days on the Otter Creek, which they
readily Accepted of, but it was with difficulty they were got out,
and when they were out, some returned the first day, and the
Others early the next.
I am, with the greatest Regard,
&ca.
Sir WM. Johnson Bar1.
1 On the south bank of the St. Lawrence River, later Ogdensburg.
2 Loyal Hannon, afterwards Fort Ligonier, was situated on the east
side of Loyal Hannon creek, in the town of Ligonier, Westmoreland
County, Pennsylvania.
128 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED :
To Sir Wm. Johnson, Bar1.
Camp at Crown Point 2d. Octr. 1 759.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Camp at Ossrvego Octobr. 5th. 1759
Sir
Your Excellency s favour of the 25th. Ult°. I Yesterday re-
ceived, wherein you make mention of Eight Mohawk Indians
Just then arrived at Crown Point with one Fisher, and that You
were unwilling to trust them until You heard from me. Captn.
Dick, and most of the rest are verry well known to many Officers
of the Army, and I may venture to say will do all in their power
for the good of the Service.
I think it will be verry necessary to encourage Trade to Niagara,
but a great Number of those who generally apply, will rather
hurt our interest than otherwise from an unfair Dealing.
I have, ever Since I had the Superintendancy of Indian Affairs,
taken all the care I could in the choice of the honestest Men I
could find to Trade among the Indians, & Your Excellency may
be assured I shall whenever applied to, continue to encourage
all such as (from my long experience of the People of this Coun-
try) I may Confide in, convinced that nothing can promote or
extend his Majesty's Indian Interest more than a fair, and plenti-
ful! trade.
The Officers of his Majesty s 46th. Regiment have applied to
me to represent to Your Excellency that their Regiment was
since its arrival in America for the most part upon the Frontiers,
and harrassed by severe Marches upon many Alarms, hopeing
that they might be indulged with any other Quarters than those
the Ensueing Winter, if the Quarters of the Army were not
fixed, at their repeated entreaty, and my own knowledge of
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years' War 129
some of the Severe Marches they made &ca. I have taken the
liberty of mentioning their Request, — Captn. Lotteradge w*.
a Party of Onondagaes is hourly expected from La Galete, as is
also a Party of Mohawks who have been gone from hence 2 1 ,
and the former 1 4 Days. —
I am
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major General Amherst
INDORSED:
Sir Wm. Johnson
Oswego 5th. October 1759.
R 15*. do.
Asd 23rd. d°.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
L. S.1
Camp at Osxvego Octr. 12th 1759
Sir
Your Excellencys of the 2d.2 Instant I was yesterday favoured
with, wherein you desire that those Indians who were still to joyn
me may be stopped and the rest disbanded.
On the 8th. instant part of the Indians returned from La Galette
with two Scalps and three prisoners whose intelligence concerning
the reduction of Quebec, Gen1 Gage informed you of by express,
which occasioned my not writing at that time; after the arrival
of the Indians, at Gen1. Gages desire, I discharged those who
were here, and purpose to leave Oswego in a day or two, having
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ante, p. 126.
130 Sir William Johnson Papers
waited these two days past for a party of Indians who are not
yet returned from the Scout.
It would have given me infinite pleasure to have received Your
Excellcys. commands to joyn you earlier, as I believe the Indians
might have been of some use, but until they were discharged
in this Quarter, it was impossible to tell when they might be
called upon for service on the then intended Expedition to La
Galette.
If the small party of Indians who are yet out should return
successfull I shall imediately inform you thereof, and am
with the greatest Esteem
Sir,
Your Excellcys. most Obedient
&
most humble Serv*.
WM. Johnson
His Excellcy. Major Genl. Amherst
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Camp at Crown Point 23d. Octr. 1759.
Sir
On my return here from a Cruize down Lake Champlain
(with a Detachment of the Army, the Brig D. of Cumberland,
Boscawen Sloop, & Ligonier Radeau, in which We Caused the
Enemy to Sink, run aground, and Abandon their three Sloops, &
leave us entire Masters of the Lake) I found Your two Letters
of the 5th. and 12th.2 Instant, which Except a Representation in
favor of the 46th. Regiment, being Answers to two of Mine, I
have only to Assure You that I shall always be glad to have it
in my power to Acquiesce with any thing that Comes from You ;
but long before Yours came to my hands, I had, within Myself,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante, pp. 128-9.
Seven Years' War 131
fixed the Winter Quarters of the Troops, and in that disposition,
had a particular regard to the preceding Quarters of the Several
Regiments, and as I knew that the 46th. had for two Years been
mostly on the Frontiers, I intended to bring them down the Coun-
try this Year, which Intention no favor or Affection could make
me lay aside, but how far down, the Service will permit me to
bring them, I Cannot yet Say,
I am with the greatest regard
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Pitsbwg22d Deer. 1759
S*
Since I wrote you with my Journal, I have receiv'd Intelligence
from the Lake, that the French at Detroit are using their Influence
with all Nations of Indians, to ingage early next Spring to Attack
our Communication and Frontiers, and there is no doubt but that
they may get some Indians to ingage in it, tho I think it will not
be general in any Nation, The Indians are very Jealous seeing
a large Fort building here, but it will in a great measure depend
on the French being able to Support them, Tis true they have a
large and flourishing Settlement in the Illinois Country, and a
Water carriage to Fort Detroit, which will make it easy to Supply
them with Provisions & Goods at Detroit, & I cant help thinking
but the French will go to any Expence they are able, to give us
trouble, and infest our Communication, as well to keep the Indians
in their Interest, as to disappoint the intended general Meeting
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. This letter was en-
closed in Johnson to Gage, March 17, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:200,
and re-transmitted in Gage to Amherst, of unknown date in March, 1 760.
For additional comment see also Gage to Johnson, March 26, 1 760,
Johnson Papers, 3:202, and Amherst to Johnson, Johnson Papers, 3:206.
132 Sir William Johnson Papers
of all Nations here next Spring, which may be attended with ill
consequences, if they shou'd Succeed, The French have been
very indulgent to the Indians this way, & no doubt will be more
so now to carry their Point, we are not so, being flush'd with the
Success of his Majestys Arms in other quarters, as it is generally
thought by the Gentlemen of the Army, that the Indians must
from their Necessitys come into our Measures, and Every Body
thinks that any thing given to Indians thrown away, as the Com-
munication has been this Fall free from any Interruption.
The General told me this Morning, that there was but 3 Months
Provisions, in the Stores here, for the Garrison which is 900 Men
& no more Expected, this Winter, so that before the last of March,
we may expect to be put upon short Allowance, and it will be
impossible to get a Supply up, till the last of April, or beginning
of May—
I am with esteem & Regard your most
obedient & most humble Serv*.
Geo: Croghan
To Sir Willm. Johnson Bart.
INDORSED:1
Decb'. 22<*. 1 759—
Mr Croghans Letter
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy
Pittsburg 31st. Dec: J759
By an Indian from the Shawanese I have the following In-
telligence Viz1.
That some Shawanese who went to Fort Detroit last Fall were
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. This intelligence was
transmitted by Johnson to Gage, and by the latter to Amherst, as per the
communications mentioned in footnote 1 , ante, p. 131.
Seven Years War 133
Returnd, and inform their Nation, that while they were at Fort
Detroit, two large Convoys of Provisions & Goods came there,
from the Illinois Country, about 100 Battoes each time, and as
near as they could guess 300 Men with each Convoy, which,
when unloaded set immediately back for more Stores, as the
French had told them.
And that the French reported to all Nations of Indians, over
the Lake, that they intended to go early in the Spring & retake
Niagara, in order to open the Road to Montreal, that they might
go & fetch Goods to Cloath their Children the Indians, and after
that, if the Indians thought proper, to drive the English from
Pittsburg, over the great Mountain, They would Assist the Indians
their Children, as they pittyed them; and knew the English
design'd to take their Country from them.
These Shawanese farther say, that Bauby a French Trader,
was coming from Fort D'Troit, to Trade with their Nation. But
they say the Nations over the Lake, had come to no Resolution,
whether they would assist the French, or not, in their intended
Expedition next Spring against Niagara —
Geo: Croghan
Deputy Agent
INDORSED:1
Decb'. 3K 1759—
The Intelligence given to Mr.
Croghan by a Shawanese
Indian — .
In Johnson's hand.
134 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Pittsburg 25lh. January 1760.
S*.
Last Night arrivd here an Express, from Gen1. Amherst, who
brought a Copy of your Intelligence of the 20th. Decemr. by
which it appears the Enemy with as many Indians as they can
get, Intend to Attack this Post.
I Received a piece of intelligence the 31st. Decemr. which I
sent you but least that might not go safe, I here inclose you a
Copy, which Shews the Enemy intends to push to the last, & tho
they give out, they intend to retake Niagara, I always thought
their Intentions, was against this Place or to cut of our Commu-
nications, which is equall the same, for if they Cut of our Com-
munication, the Place must fall.
The Success of his Majestys Arms, this Campaign, in Differ-
ent Parts, gives rise to an Opinion generally received in the Army,
that We have conquered the Continent, it is True We may say
We have beat the French ; but we have nothing to boast from the
War with the Natives, yet it is thought every Penny, thrown
away, that is given them, which Obliges me to think the Service
very disagreeable tho' I will by no means Resign without your
Consent and Approbation, I have done every thing in my Power
this Campaign, to promote the Good of his Majestys Indn. Interests
what Expense the Crown has been at, I cannot tell, as I was
determin'd to have nothing to do with the Kings' Store, more
than draw orders to Cloath such Indians as stood in Necessity
of them for which Cloathing I have Past my Receipts, Copys of
which I keep to prevent any Reflections on Me; there seems to
be no Goods prepareing for the next Campaign; tho' We may
Expect to have our Communication Attacked at least, which ap-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. This letter was trans-
mitted by Johnson to Gage, and by the latter to Amherst, as per the
communications mentioned in footnote 1 , ante, p. 131.
Seven Years' War 1 35
pears a little odd to me, as those the least Acquainted with Indians
Affairs, must allow that Indians can not be sent on Service with-
out Goods, nor those against Us, be brought over to his Majestys
Interest, without presents, & the Enemy make Use of the most
prevailing Arguments, to Indians, in the World, to gain them,
by telling them that the English intends to Settle their Country;
at the same time We lake no pains to oblige or treat the Indians,
in such a Manner as might Counteract the French Policy.
I will send You every piece of Intelligence I receive this
Winter, as soon as I receive it; but must request the favour of
your Honour to write me, how I am to Act if I be to continue
here this next Campaign, which I woud not chuse to do, If I
could help it.
I am, with great Esteem & Regard
Your most Obedient & most humble
Servant
Geo: Croghan
P.S. 26*. Jany.
Last Night an Unlucky Accident happened here, between
some Seneca Indians & some Virginia Soldiers, three of the
Indians are Wounded, one dangerously and his life dispaird off.
INDORSED:1
Mr. Croghans Letter
Dated Jan'?. 25th. 1 760
1 In Johnson's hand.
136 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Pittsburg 26th. January 1760
One Charles Power an English Prisoner was brought here by
the Weyindotts, he was taken upon the Cherokee River Six Years
agoe & has liv'd with them and the French at D'Troit since he
was made Prisoner, & gives me the following Intelligence Viz1.
That every Spring since he has been among them, there has
been a great Number of Indians from over the Lake come this way
to War against the English sometimes 700 Men in One Company.
The Weyindotts are pretty kind to their Prisoners, but all
other Nations are very cruel to them.
Till last Fall that the French abandoned this Place, the
Indians were of Opinion that the French would conquer all the
English in America, but since the fate of Niagara, the Indians
seem to be convinc'd that the English can beat ye French, for
which reason, the most Sensible Indians are for standing Neuter,
but he says the Chief of all the Indians over the Lakes has much
greater Affection for the French, than for the English, as they
are afraid the English intend to Settle their Country.
He left Fort D'Troit the begining of October, that the French
had not finished their New Fort, the Stockades were all up, &
they were filling it up with Earth on the inside, about 8 feet
thick of Earth & about 7 feet high, that they began to be scarce
of Provision but Expected a Supply in the Fall from the Ilionois
Country, in the Spring, they Expected 2000 Beaves and a
Number of Men to D'Troit, but for what purpose he cannot tell,
but he is of Opinion that if the French be able to send any Troops
against the English this Spring, that Numbers of the Indians
over the Lakes will Join them.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. This intelligence was
transmitted by Johnson to Gage, and by the latter to Amherst, as per the
communications mentioned in footnote 1, ante, p. 131.
Seven Years' War 137
That about the 20th. Decr. there came a Messenger from
Fort D'Troit to where the Indians were hunting on this side
of the Lake with an Account that Sr. Will™. Johnson had sent a
Summons to the Commanding Officer to know whether he would
Surrender up the Fort, or fight for it, that the Commanding
Officer returnd for Answer, that he would fight for it as long as
he was able, then the Messenger told the Indians that the Gov-
ernour of Fort D'Troit, desir'd that all the Indians on this side
of the Lake might repair to Fort D'Troit as early in the Spring
as possible, whenever the Ice would Permit Battoes to pass in
the Lake.
Sr. The above I recd. since I wrote my Letter
G:C
INDORSED:1
Pits Borough Janry. 26th. 1 760
The Intelligence of one
Charles Power who has been
long a Prisr. among ye. Indians
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Johnson 16 Feby. 1760
Sir Copy
My time having been much taken up with the Reports of Con-
ferences between the Six Nations & the French Indians particu-
larly the Cagnawagas, Conesedagos, Swegachys &c that had I
Attempted to Answer yours of ye. 7th. of last Decr. before, I
shoud not have had the Satisfaction of telling you how favourable
all Negociations with the Indians have been this way: I had
several Meetings myself with the Chippeways & Missisagos
before I left Niagara when they gave me the strongest Assurances
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
138 Sir William Johnson Papers
of their Attachment to the English, and since that the Command-
ing Officer and Interpreters at Niagara inform me that the
Chippeways Missisagos &c are come in to confirm the peace
with us, and have given Belts in most solemn Testimony: the
Cagnawagas Conessedagos, Swegachys Squegonoghsoonos &c
have done the Same, to ye. 5 Nations there is also an Indian
returned fm. Detroit to Niagara as the Interpreter writes me, who
has brought a Belt from the Wawsoghtenhoeks to Desire Peace;
the Commanding Officer there told the Indian that he had not
heard of Quebecks being [taken]1 in the hands of the English,
which if he had, he said, he himself would be obiigd to Surrender,
the Wawsaghtonhooks are to be at Niagara next Spring to ratify
in a formal manner what they have requested by that Belt — I am
extreamly pleased with your whole Management this last Cam-
paign, & doubt not but as you always have, you will continue
to Exert yourself in your Station: notwithstanding our Indian
interest has a more prosperous Appearance than ever, I am of
your Opinion, not meerly from ye. Intelligence you have, but
from my own observation & knowledge of the Country, that the
French fm. Detroit with a few ill-disposed Indians may interrupt
the Convoys wth. provisions to your Post, & thereby distress that
Garrison if not Seasonably prevented by your being qualified to
give presents to & treat with those you may Suspect will act
against Us, and by your keeping good Scouts towards Presque
Isle & along Lake Erie/ for these reasons I think it adviseable that
you immediately acquaint General Amherst with said Intelligence
if you have no aready done it, and Address him in the same
manner you did Gen1. Stanwix, as in that Letter (a Copy of
which I receivd) you mentioned all the Requisites necessary
for your carrying that busieness into Execution, which you are
Employ'd in as my Deputy — By this time you have heard of
Govr. Lyttleton's2 Treaty w,h. ye. Cherokees which has given
peace to the Southward : Our Success this Campaign has wonder-
fully alter'd the Conduct of all Indians & did I beleive somewhat
1 Crossed out in the manuscript.
2 William Henry Lyttelton, goverror of South Carolina, 1 755-62.
Seven Years' War 139
contribute to facilitate that Peace & may disappoint the Designs
of any Emisaries of the Enemy who may be now among the
Indians, provided we do not relax but keep up our Indian interest
by every Method which you have hinted very properly in said
Letter to Gen1. Stanwix — I have now dispatched Cap*. Montour1
with this Letter & he has my Orders to join & Assist you at your
Post or wherever else it may be thought necessary for the King's
Service : Your Stay there & the continuance of the War is some-
what uncertain & as you already recommended Capls. Trent2
and Mc.Kee3 to Gen1. Stanwix, if he approves of them I dont
doubt but he has mention'd them to Gen1. Amherst from whom
you are sensible all Commissions or Warrants of that kind must
come: should the General require my Opinion I shoud give it
agreable to ye. Exigency & yr. Request.
I have at your Desire, order'd Mr. Francis Wade4 of Phila-
delphia to Answer yr. Draught for £ 200 SterK & I wish you well
as do all at my house & am yr. humble
Serv*.
WM. Johnson
To George Croghan Esqr.
as Cap1. Montour has been present at most of the Meetings which
have been held since he has been here, I refer you to him for
particulars —
INDORSED :
Sir William Johnson
Leter Dated 1 6th. Feb?.
Received June 1 4th. 1 760-
1 Captain Henry (Andrew) Montour.
2 Captain William Trent.
3 Captain Thomas McKee.
4 A Philadelphia merchant with whom Johnson dealt extensively.
140 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO VROMAN
March y. 3d. 1760
MR. Vroman/
I cant help wondering at your behaviour to the Indians, Setting
them up to have provisions from you & everry thing they want,
which would put the Crown to a fine Expence. these things I
will never put up with, as I am Intrusted by the King I will see
Justice done him. the Indians complained lately to me that You,
or yr. Son bought Lands from them, which are the only Lands
they have now to occupy. I must look into that affair, as well as
many more of that kind, haveing received orders lately from his
Majesty in Council for that purpose. I hope you have done
nothing wrong, or may hurt you. I am
Sir
Yr. Humble Serv*
WM. Johnson
FROM JOHN BUTLER
Contemporary) Copy
Fort Stanrvix 24th. April 1760
Honoured Sir
This day came two Indians from Onieda, & bring the following
Acco*. Viz*., That ten days ago, left Swegatchy one of their
Nation, who was sent by the Onondagas to envite the Swegatchy s
Indians home, who refused to hear him, untill the french Officer
was present, They then desired him to Speak, which he did, but
before he had done, the Officer desired him to hold his Tongue,
& said his Children should not rise, & walked backward & for-
ward all the time, and said when my Children were at your
1 In William L. Clements Library.
2 In William L. Clements Library, Gage papers ; enclosed in Johnson
to Gage, April 27, 1 760, post p. 142.
Seven Years' War 141
castle last winter, they no sooner left You ; but you run to Sr. Wm.
Johnson with the news that passed there, they said, look at me!
(I am not Dead yet) in a great passion, and said you are the
people that took Niagara from me, as the English could not
have taken it, if you had not assisted.-therefore I am very angry
with the Six Nations in my heart, and you shall see what it is to
fight, this summer; the English had a great number of Troops
come over last Spring, and we have more come this Spring and
are daily acomeing, and in forty days you will see part of them,
but the main body will soon follow. —
Children I gave you some time ago a small hatchet to keep in
your bosom, & desired you to make use of it against any Body
that might oppose you, but you have made use of it against myself;
So, I desire you will return it very soon, as I am very angry and
this is all I have to say at pres*.
After this the Indians had a meeting without the french, they
then said they would not come home at all, and said the Ottawawas
were angry, and had a meeting at De Troit, and said they would
call the five Nations to have a meeting with them, and then serve
them, as they did them at Niagara, and the Garrison of Niagara
they would surprize by comeing to trade and treat with the
Commanding Officer; and at Swegatchy they were making
Battoes padles &c —
ColR Massey1 on hearing this, desired me to take a party of
Indians & go on a Scout along Swegatchy road, which I shall
do tomorrow, but have but two old Indians here, this is all I hear,
but expect to hear this more particular when Tagewara comes,
which is the Indians name that has been at Swegatchy, I should
be glad to know whether I am to send Indians A Scouting from
this, or not. ColR Massey gives broad hints that he thinks it Neces-
sary, but will not give me Orders to send them and as the Indians
will not go without the same pay they had last Spring, I dont
1 Lt. Col. Eyre Massey, of the 46th regiment.
142 Sir William Johnson Papers
know how to behave. — I shall write you when I hear from the
Indian himself in the Meantime am
Hon* S'.
Your Dutifull Servant
signd
John Butler
PS
Col°. Massey tells me
that Col°. Haldiman is making
preparations & Expects to be attacked
very Soon
INDORSED:
Cap1. Butler's Letter to
Sr. Wm. Johnson wth. Indn. Report
P. Stanwix 24th. April 1 760
TO THOMAS GAGE
A.L.S}
Fort Johnson 27ih. April 1760
Dear Sir/
The inclosed is coppy of a letter2 I received about an hour ago
from Captn. Butler at Fort Stanwix, which I thought my Duty
to Send You, I find by what passed between the Officer at
La Gallete, & the Six Nation Indian, that the French still con-
tinue their old custom of puffing, and threatning, wh. I think
at present ill becomes them. I have sent orders to all my officers
at the Posts to get our Partys of Indians to Canada, and La
1 In William L. Clements Library, Gage papers.
2 Captain John Butler to Johnson, April 24, 1 760, ante, p. 1 40.
Seven Years' War 143
Gallete for Intelligence, & Prisoners &ca. I am sorry to be so
troublesome to You at present but cannot help it.
I am
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient, most
Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
The Honrble.
Brigdr. Genrl. Gage
indorsed:
S'. W». Johnson 27*. Ap1. 1 760.
TO JOHN LOTTRIDGE
Contemporary Copy, Signed1
Fort Johnson 7lh. May 1760
Two Messengers from the Onondaga Nation arrived here
yesterday with a Belt of Wampum, sent as they say by the whole
Confederacy, to acquaint me of the Threats of the French and
to beg that they may by all means be supplied with Arms &
Amunition wherewith to defend themselves against any Attempts
the French or their Indians may make which they say they expect
they will in 1 7 days from this Date as the Caghnawaga Indians
told them so at Oswego.
•%, It is very wrong to suffer Caghnawageys or any other nation
who are our Enemys to come to, and return from Oswego or any
other of our Posts unmolested, much more so to trade there as
I hear they have done. —
I hope you were not privy to this, it would be very unbecoming
an Officer, to admit of any such thing as it is giving the Enemy
the greatest advantages Imaginable as by that means they may
have constant Intelligence of every motion of ours;
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, May 27, 1760, Johnson Papers 3:253.
144 Sir William Johnson Papers
If any should come there for the future to your knowledge,
it is your Duty to acquaint the Commanding Officer of that Post
with it, which I expect you will do —
As I do not think it prudent or necessary to give them amunitn.
here at pres1. I have put them off by giving them this Letter to
You & telling them that if any attempt was likely to be made
against them, or us that Way, that You would on proper applica-
tion made get them Amunition from the Commanding Officer
of that Fort, who I am sure on such an occasion would readily
do it.
I am about sending a Battoe with Goods & Amunition in two
or three days for the use of the Indians who may come upon
Business to that Post; the same for Niagara, so that the Com-
manding Officer may occasionally make them Presents as is
expected. — You will always give him your Opinion who are the
people or Persons most worthy of such, I mean of the foreign
Indians, & also the most deserving of the five Nations. —
You will when this is delivered to you, assure the Indians that
whenever there is any attempt made upon any of their people
by the Enemy, that they will be supplied wth. sufficient Amunition
at that Post & Niagara, and that we will not suffer the french,
or any other nation, to fall upon, or destroy any Nation of
Indians who may, or will be our Friends, and join his Majestys
Arms. —
I wish you well &c
WM. Johnson
To Captn. John Lotteridge1
P S I hope you have before this
been able to send out Partys for Priss.
or Intelligence. — if not pray do it
Imediately. —
Copy
In Johnson's hand.
Seven Years' War 145
INDORSED:1
Letter to Cap*. Lotteradge
May 7«h. 1 760 —
Enclosed in Sr. Wm. Johnsons of 27th. d°.
FROM HENRY NELLIS
Contemporary Copy
Niagara 8th. May 1760
Sir
Since my last an Indian arriv'd from the Chippeways, who
informs that the French are very busie in building a Fort at
Detroit, and that a good Many French Inds. were arriv'd there
from the Mississipi, and that some Cannon was likewise arrivd at
that place frm. the Mississipi —
When the Chief Warrior of the Missisagos returns, I shall not
fail to Acquaint you of ye Material Occurrances ; — Inclosed
you have a Return of the Provisions, Ammunition & Rum given
to the Inds. at this place in the month of April; by which you
will see the quantity of each Specie —
Six Canoes of Missisagos came here last Night to Trade, they
bring no News — Coll. Eyre's3 just now told me that the Smith
cannot be spared to do any thing for the Indians, He had ordered
me to give two pipe Tomohawks, One to the Chief Warrior of
the Missisagos, another to the Indian who brought a little Girl,
which I borow'd of Levi the Sutler, and since I cannot get them
made I must pay for them. I am
Sir &c
Henry Nellis
Copy
1 In Johnson's hand, except the last line.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, May 18, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:242.
3 Lt. Col. Will Eyre of 44th regiment.
146 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED :
Copy of a Letter from Mr. Henry
Nellis to Sir William Johnson
Niagara 8*. May 1 760
Enclosed in Sr : Williams of 1 8'. d°.
FROM JOHN LOTTRIDGE
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of Capt. Lottridges Letter dated Oswego 1 0, May 1 760
"Since my Last there have been from Oswegachy two Canoes
who say the french Vessells are rigged, the third almost finished
which was very large, but few People there, in great Want of
Provisions ; — they likewise inform that the French are gone to
attack Quebec, which is the Reason of so few at the above place.
This agrees with what the different Parties of Indians have
Informed us with this Winter. —
The Swegachies behaved extreamly well when they were here,
and are much taken with their Usage at this Post, they also say
they were all in our Interest, and never give ear to any thing the
French may recommend to them.
Just now arrived some Battoes from Niagara they saw one
of the French Vessells on their Passage thither, but none on
their Return. —
The Mohawk is now in this Harbour and in fine Order, but
in great Want of Seamen She is to sail the 1 6th. Ins1, for Niagara.
INDORSED:
Extract of a Letter from Cap1. Lotteridge
to Sr. William Johnson
Oswego 10*. May 1760
Enclosed in Sr. Williams of 20l. d°.
1 In Public Record Office, W.O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years' War 147
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany lllK May 1760.—
Sir
I Arrived here on the 8th. And as I should be glad to Converse
with You, on the Affairs of the ensueing Campaign, relative to
Your Department, I propose to meet You at Schenectady, Where
I shall be glad to See You, tomorrow in the forenoon, and to
Assure You, that I am,
Sir,
Your most obed1. Hble Serv1.
Jeffery Amherst
Copy
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
A.L.S.2
Fort Johnson May 14th. 1760
Sir/
There are some Indians there about You, who belong to the
Mohawks, and were left among ye. Chenundadies formerly, One
Aria a Mohawk Young Indn. wanted much to go for them,
but I stopped him, as I wanted him to go this way with ye. Army,
and promised them I would write you about them. I should be
glad if you could prevail on Said Indians to come to their freinds
here at the Mohawks, but would not have you be at any Expense
or great trouble about them, as, after this Campaign is over, they
may go and fetch them themselves, this is Just to gratify the Inds.
here at present. I have sent my Packet for You by the Post, as I
thought it the safest way, & I beleive as expeditious, this goes by
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
148 Sir William Johnson Papers
Johnny Montour.1 — this Day Sett of three Ottawawaes from
near Detroit, from my House with ten Ondagaes and a White
Man for the River Sl. Laurence below Swegatchy. where they
expect to cut of some of ye. French Convoys, this will induce
[some]2 many to go out now against Canada, and will thereby
distress the Enemy more than a Small Army. I have Sent Six
days ago 2 partys from Fort Stanwix for a Prisoner, which I
expect back in a few Days. Our Heavy Cannon begun to move
yesterday to Schenectady, so that I belive the greatest affair will
be up this way.
I am Sr.
Your hearty welwisher
& Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
George Croghan Esqr.
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
L.5.3
Fort Johnson 1 4th. Map. 1760.
Sir
I had heard of Cap1. Montour's loosing all my Dispatches4 for
Pitsburgh ; Gen1. Stanwix having mentioned it at New York to Mr.
Shuckburgh my Secretary, with this Addition, that as the Gen1,
pass'd thro' Carlisle, He found Montour detaind there for a
Tavern Debt, which was paid by Mr. Sinclair, by Order of the
General, and so qualified him to proceed on his Journey. — You
have herewith a Copy inclos'd of what he was to bring, and what
will be more Satisfactory to you (in Answer to yours 'p Express
1 Son of Capt. Henry (Andrew) Montour.
2 Crossed out in manuscript.
3 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
4 See Johnson to Croghan, Feb. 1 6, 1 760, ante p. 137, which by its in-
dorsement was received June 14. Apparently a copy of that letter was
enclosed with this.
Seven Years' War 149
of 22d. April) 'That upon my Acquainting his ExcellcJ\ Gen1.
Amherst of your Scituation, from the want of Goods to present the
Indians, on certain Exigencies, He told Me that he would write
immediately to Brigadier Gen1. Monkton who is to command
your Way, to Buy and take with him a sufficient Assortment of
Goods for that Purpose : and as for what you have issued att your
own Risque," He says You shall certainly be paid. — I only
gave Aaron the Mohawk a meer Pass to on his own business to
Pitsburg, without the least instruction even Verbal to Negotiate
any for the Publick; Nevertheless I don't disapprove of your
sending him to Detroit, as possibly he may gain intelligence of the
Enemy's Scituation & their Connections with the Indians there
& abroad if He & his Associates are discreet. — You'll find In-
velop'd with this a Copy of my Orders to Cap1. Montour, which
you will deliver to him, as the Original I suppose is lost, having
heard that when he left Carlisle, He had no Papers with him,
but his Pass to Pitsburg. — I think it unnecessary to give you
any farther Instructions, not doubting but the same Conduct in
the Busieness you are intrusted with, that Recommended you to
take Notice of Gen1. Stanwix, will entitle you to the same from
Gen1. Monkton,1 to whom doubtless Gen1. Stanwix will recom-
mend you, as it gave me the greatest Pleasure to hear that Gen1.
Stanwix and Major Gates2 had spoke in such high Commenda-
tion of your behaviour and Management of the Indians in that
Quarter. — I know by Experience the Service you are engaged
in, must be very disagreeable and troublesome however I woud
have you do as I intend to do myself, which is to continue it as
long as the War lasts, for I woud not upon any Ace*, have the
Service suffer, tho it will not lay at your Door if not properly
Supply'd or Enabled to prevent it. The Operations of this Cam-
paign are not yet public; I yesterday mett Gen1. Amherst at
Schenectady when I took the Opportunity of Talking to him on
1 Col. Robert Monckton, of 17th Foot; a brigadier under Wolfe at
Quebec, he became a Maj. Gen., Feb. 20, 1761, and governor of New
York, 1761.
2 Capt. Horatio Gates, commissioned a Major, April 24, 1 762.
150 Sir William Johnson Papers
yr. Affairs, as before mentioned, at the same time gave him my
Opinion of the Necessity there is for keeping the Indians in
general in good Temper, & particularly those who live around
you, and but lately come into our Interest — I am in hopes We
shall be able to bring a greater Number of Indians into the field
this Campaign than ever was known; all I am uneasy about is
at our being so late — I think this Summer must make us Masters
of America, We mis'd it last Winter I think in not reducing
Missisipi, which I am certain is not very difficult to be done from
all the Accts. I have had — All Friends here are well & desire
their Compliments to You
I am Sir with all Sincerity
Yr. real Wellwisher
& humble Servant.
WM. Johnson
George Croghan Esqr.
P. S.
I wrote by Montour to you
for the Seeds of some curious Trees
that grow along the Ohio & ab*. Scioto
the names of which I now forget
Montour can tell you what they are,
I shall be obliged to you for any Seeds
we have not here. —
P. S.
Three Mississagoes are just arriv'd here at my House, I have
not heard yet what they are come about, as I have no Interpreter,
I suppose they are come as friends & Sent with some Messages
of Peace —
Y«
W.J-1
if you receive any Intelligence of Moment from Detroit, or else-
Initials and following postscript in Johnson's hand, also the address.
Seven Years' War 1 5 1
where by Aron &ca, or by any other means, let me know it by
express thro the Nations, & by the way of Oswego. —
INDORSED :
Sir W: J : Leter Dated. 1 4th. May
Received 14th. June
FROM JOHN BUTLER
Contemporary Copy1
[Fort Stanwix, May 17th. 1760.]
Hon d S*.
This Moment returned Tacawosary & & party that Left this
in order to go to Oswegatchy, & Says that they mett Pacawara,
who turned them back, & said that the french Army were on
their March to attack Oswego, part had already past Oswegatchy,
and says that the French told him that they had retaken Quebec
Last Month, this is all I hear [w]orth [ ]2 outing I have
reported the above to Coll°. Massey
The Above is an Extract of a letter from Captn. Jn°
Butler Dated Fort Stanwix May 1 7th. 1 760.
INDORSED :
Extract of a Letter from Capt. Buttler
to Sr. William Johnson.
Fort Stanwix 1 7*. May 1 760
Enclosed in Sir Williams of 20l. d°.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, May 20, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:243.
2 Word illegible in manuscript.
152 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM FREDERICK HALDIMAND, EXTRACT
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of Col°. Haldimands Letter dated
Fort Ontario I9lh. May 1760.
Monsr. Herring m'a communique une Lettre que vous lui
ecriviez en Mars & qu'il n'a regue que le 15e. de May
Le Cap1. Lottridge me fit voir aussi une Lettre qu'il avoit recue
le 1 4e. le Facon dont vous vous y exprimes M'engagea a empecher
que les Indiens d'Oswegachy ne fissent aucun Commerce icy,
je le leur fit dire par le Sachem d'Onondagua, et je projettois
meme de les faire Areter. Lorsque le Cap*. Lottridge vint m'avertir
que les autres Indiens qui etoint icy paroissoint fort mecontent
que cette Affair pour oit avoir de Suittes facheuses &ca. je cms
devoir prendre l'Avis de quelques Officiers sur le Sujet, je vous
envoye Monsr. la Copie de L'Extraits que je fait parvenir au
General Gage, en lui demandant les Ordres.
Je vous prie aussi de donner des Instructions positives a Lot-
tridge au Sujet des presents que vous destines pour les Indiens
et sur la Facon dont il doit traitter ceux d'Oswegachy il vous
ecrit fort au long a ce Sujet.
INDORSED:
Extract of a Letter from Col. Haldimand
to Sr. Wm. Johnson.
Fort Ontario2 19*. May 1760
Enclosed in Sr. Williams of 27*. d°.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, May 27, 1 760, see Johnson Papers, 3:253.
2 The fort on the east bank of the river, at Oswego, N. Y.
Seven Years' War 153
TRANSLATION
Extract of Col°. Haldimands Letter dated
Fort Ontario 19ih. May 1760.
Mr. Herring has communicated to me a letter which you
wrote him in March, and which he did not receive until the 1 5th
of May.
Captain Lotteridge also showed me a letter which he had
received on the 14th. The way in which you expressed yourself
led me to prevent the Indians of Oswegatchy from carrying on
any trade here. I also had the Sachem of the Onondagas tell
them that I even intended to have them arrested. When Captain
Lotteridge came to warn me that the other Indians who were
here seemed very much dissatisfied, and that this affair might
have unfortunate consequences, etc., I thought it proper to take
the advice of some officers in this matter. I am sending you, Sir,
a copy of the extract which I sent to General Gage asking him
for his orders.
I also beg you to give definite instructions to Lotteridge on the
subjects of the presents which you intend to give to the Indians
and on the way he is to treat those of Oswegatchy. He is writ-
ing you at length on this subject.
INDORSED :
Extract of a Letter from Col Haldimand
to Sr. Wm. Johnson.
Fort Ontario 18*. May 1760.
Enclosed in Sr. Williams of 27*. d°.
154 Sir IVilliam Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 25lh. May 1760 —
Sir,
William Phillips a Ranger in Major Roger's2 Corps having
passed through here in his way home, Which I am told is near
Your house; I must beg the favor of You if he should not be
with You upon receipt hereof as is likely, that You would Send
to his place of Abode, of Where thereabouts You think he may
be, and to Direct him to Set out immediately to come to me
here. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
P.S. he passed here a few days Since & told me, he was going
to Your House, he is much recommended to me and I intend
to give him a Commission. —
J. A.
Copy
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Robert Rogers of the Rangers.
Seven Years' War 1 55
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 27 lh. May 1760
Sir,
I am obliged to You for having Sent to Phillips2 and for Your
promise of Ordering him down here, on his Arrival with You. —
With regard to the Oil Cloaths3 You mention, I believe You
will recollect, What I told You at Schenectady, concerning
them, Which was, that I had Experienced Such a Waste of them,
and Scarce ever Saw them employed in the Services, they were
really intended for, that I had resolved to Save the great Expence,
they Stood in to the Crown, and not to Order any this Campaign ;
I shall however enquire of the D.Q.M.G. if there are any in
Store, if there are, and You will let me know the Numbers,
You may want, they shall be forwarded to Mr. Vanslyke. —
Betteaus shall be provided for You so Soon as I know the Number
You have Occasion for; and the Cloathing Arms & Stores for
the Indians, Shall be taken up the River in the best and safest
way we can. —
As the Senecas are greatly distressed for Indian Corn & pork
and that You promised to relieve them, I think it is but right
you Should do so; besides as You observe When they find, that
their families are provided for, they will the more readily &
Chearfully Join us; Wherefore if You will be so good as to let
me know from what post on the Mohawk River, it will be most
easy and Convenient to Supply them, with that Article, and
that You inform me what Quantity, in which we must be as
Sparing as we can, You Shall want, I will Send an order for it
to be Issued to You with the Batteaus, You desire for that use. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir &ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Baronet.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 William Phillips. See Amherst to Johnson, May 25, 1 760, ante p. 1 54.
3 See Johnson to Amherst, May 26, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:252.
156 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 28th. May 1760. 10 A.M.
Sir,
I am this Moment favored with Your Letter of Yesterday,
with an Extract of a Letter2 from CoR Haldimand to You of
the 19th. Instant; the Copy of an opinion3 of Some of the Officers
at his post ; And a Transcript of Your Letter4 to Cap1. Lotteridge
of the 7th. of this Month. The opinion I transmitted You myself
Yesterday, & informed You that Col°. Haldimand was desirous
of receiving positive Instructions, how to Act for the future with
the Indians, for Which I have referred him to You, as being An
Affair within Your Department, and on Which You would best
know how to decide, Which I think You have very Judiciously
done, in Your letter to Cap1. Lotteridge; Whereupon I have
only to add, that Such of the french Indians as chuse to come &
live among us May be received altho' they might decline Joining
His Majesty's Arms; All I require of these is to remain quiet
and not to go to and fro with Intelligence, as from the Moment
they do this, they can be no longer looked upon as friends, &
consequently must be treated as Enemies. —
I am to Send a Dozen of Horses & Some Waggons to Niagara ;
and as I think the best post to Send them from is Fort Herch-
heimer, I should be glad, if You are of the Same Opinion, that
You would procure me Some Indians to take charge of them,
as it will not be practicable for any of our people to do it; And
as this must suffer no delay, I Shall be obliged to You, if You
will inform me, Whether You can do it, and how soon. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. An extract is printed
in Johnson Papers 3:254.
2 See Haldimand to Johnson, Extract, May 19, 1760, ante p. 152-3.
3 For the opinion of officers, see Examinations Concerning Trade, for
May 17, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:238.
4 See ante p. 143.
Seven Years' War 157
The Horses will be quite light, having nothing but their Halters
to Carry with them; the Waggons shall go by another route.
Phillips is just Arrived.
I am, with great regard
Sir,
&ca
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 29th. May 1760 —
Sir,
As I have Ordered the Garrison of Niagara, to be relieved
from Pittsburgh, for Which Purpose I am now Sending a Number
of Whaleboats, to the former of those posts, to be taken across
the Carrying place & Launched into Lake Erie to fetch said
relief at Presqu'Isle,2 I should be glad, that You would procure
me, a Couple of good Pilots, that know that Lake & Presqu'Isle
well, and that You would immediately Send them for that pur-
pose to Col°. Haldimand at Oswego, Who has my orders con-
cerning the Same; but as it will be prudent not to Mention this
intended Service to the people Whom You may Employ upon
this Occasion; I beg You will only tell them, that they are Sent
to Guide an Officer, Ordered from Oswego to Presqu'Isle. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Now Erie, Pa.
158 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 29lK May 1760
Sir,
Your Letter of Yesterday reached me just before Dinner;
You shall have the Twelve good Large & tight Batteaus You
desire, for the Transportation of the Cloathing, Stores, &ca, for
the Use of the Indians; as also the Oil Cloaths to Save them from
the Weather; but with regard to the Batteaumen, as You say
they should be purely destined for that Service, and ought to
Continue the Campaign, in order to prevent any Losses that
might happen from Changing hands, Every now and then; I
think it will be best that You Appoint those People Yourself,
as from Your knowledge of them, You will better know what
Dependence You can make on them.
As Oswego is the properest Post to Issue the Pork2 from,
for the Senecas, I shall Direct that You may have the Thirty
Barrells, You desire, there; but I must Observe to You, that from
the Orders I have sent thither, in Consequence of what I Wrote
You this Morning, that Quantity cannot possibly be Spared
from thence at present: it will however not be long first, as I am
getting a Large Quantity up there, as fast as I can; the four
Batteaus & Covering You Ask for these provisions, shall like-
wise be found You,
I am not better provided with Tents this Year than I was the
last ; so that I can only, as I did then, let You have some Horse-
men's Tents.
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 See Amherst to Johnson, May 27, 1760, ante, p. 155.
Seven Years' War 1 59
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson May 29th. 1760
Sir
I received your Excellencys favour of Yesterday, and have
dispatched Coll: Haldimans Express with the best directions I
could give to regulate himself by with such french Indians as
may come to Oswego. I sent him an extract of your Excellency's
letter as far as it relates to his conduct, with those Indians. — his
own prudence must in a great measure guide him in any exigency.
I immediately on receipt of yours, took a ride and employed
three verry good Men to take the twelve horses to Niagra, two
of them are farmers Sons who have lived severall years among
the Senecas, the other, is a Mohawk Indian, they are ready any
time to take them from Fort Harkemer. I was oblidged to prom-
ise them a Dollar each f^ Day, which is the hire all People
get here now from Suttlers Traders &ca.
I am
most respectfully
Your Excellencys most Obed'.
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major Genrl. Amherst
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
160 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 31st. May 1760
Sir
I am Just now honoured with yours of this Day, and shall
order the three men (who were with me today to know when
they were to go) to set out tomorrow for Fort Harkemer, & then
receive the Horses for Niagara, I will give them proper Instruc-
tions, & Passports to carry them thro the Indian Country. —
The French Indian whom I mentioned to your Excellency
in a former letter, & who brought his Prisoner the Ranger here,
I find proposed to come no farther than Osswego, & there to
deliver him but was prevailed upon by Col : Haldiman & Captn.
Lotteradge to come thus far, he has been since down to Schenec-
tady to visit one Newkirk of that place, who was some years a
Prisoner in his House, & sent home about a year ago with this
Indians Sister, who came with her Brother now purely to see
Said Newkirk whom she calls her Son & is verry fond of, I have
talked a great deal with him, he is verry open & I believe candid
in his accu. He says the Indians are in general heartily tired of
the War, as well as the French that but verry few of them
Joined the Army going to Quebec last Month, notwithstanding
they were greatly importuned by the Governour & Preists. He
says likewise that the French expect a great Number of forreign,
or verry distant Indians the latter end of next Month, or begin-
ning of July, who are to come down the Ottawawae, or great
River which discharges itself into the River Sl. Laurence near
Montreal, that the[p] French told him they had great, and daily
hopes of a great Number of French & Spannish Vessels to come
up the River to their releif. provisions tollerably plenty tho verry
dear, but all kind of Merchandize prodigiously scar[c]e, and the
price exorbitant. He was told several times last winter by Officers
& others, that an attempt would be made to recover Quebec as
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years' War 161
early in the spring as possible as their last effort, in which if they
should not Succeed, they all said, it would be in vain to make
any further opposition against the English, he says Govr. Vau-
druile is dispised by all the Soldiery for his behaviour at Quebec
last Year. — I had a great deal of chat with this Indian, altho
or Service to me, it is not worth troubleing or takeing up your
Excellencys time with. I hope to be able to make some good
use of him. — I fear I shall not be able at this time to get many
Battoemen hereabouts, the Suttlers, Traders &ca haveing at
monstrous prices engaged the most of them. I shall however do
all I can to get some, as soon as I have your Excellencys Orders
for that purpose, which I beleive will be necessary, as well as
to know what I am to allow them *p Day. —
I am with all respect imaginable
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant.
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major Genrl. Amherst
indorsed :
Sir Wm. Johnson
Fort Johnson 31st. May 1760
R. 1st: June
Ansd. 2d. d°.
162 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 31st. May 1760
Sir,
Last Night, I was favored with Yours of the 29th. ;2 immedi-
ately Whereupon, I gave Direction to Colonel Bradstreet,3 to
forward the Waggons & Horses intended for Niagara; the first
to Oswego, the latter to Fort Herkheimer,4 Where the three men,
You have been so good as to procure, and for Which I thank
You, will find them ready to proceed with, or they must wait
at Fort Herkheimer till the horses Arrive there, and they Shall
each be Allowed the dollar *p day You mention. You will be
so good to give them Such a pass to go through the Indian Castles,
as You Judge necessary.
I am obliged to You for the Instructions You have sent to
Colonel Haldimand, for regulating himself with Such of the
French Indians, as may come to Oswego, in Which certainly
his prudence, must in a great Measure guide him in any Ex-
igency. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 159.
3 Col. John Bradstreet, 40th regiment.
4 Fort Herkimer.
Seven Years' War 1 63
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 2d. June 1760
Sir,
I am much obliged to You for the Information contained in
Your Letter of the 3 1 sf. Ultimo,2 imparted to You by the French
Indian that brought in the Ranger; And I Must own, I readily
believe his Assertion of the Indians, being in General, heartily
tired of the War; nor do I doubt, that the french, in Order to
Induce them to remain in their Interest, have fed their hopes
with a Speedy Junction of a large Number of foreign & very
distant Indians, & the Arrival of Considerable relief from Europe,
as well in Spanish as french bottoms; but, on the other hand, I
imagine it is before this pretty Evident, that their Succours from
Europe are out of Question, & with regard to their foreign, &
distant Indians (by Which I suppose they mean those from the
Southward) they need not neither have any dependence on;
As I have desired Brigr. Gen1. Monckton to let those Indians
know that he intends to March against the Detroit, and that if
they Join him or remain neuter, that their Women & Children
Shall have no Sort of hurt done to them, but Shall be Protected
& Assisted ; So that I have reason to think they will not venture
in an Hostile Manner against us, so far from home. — provisions
I cannot Suppose to be so plenty; but admitting they were it is
morally certain, it cannot be for any considerable time, and
without any fresh Supplies from Europe, they must undoubtedly
be Short in that Article before long; and of course the latter
part of his information, that if they did not Succeed in their last
Efforts against Quebec, it would be in vain to Make any further
Opposition against the English, Must Sometime this Summer
be verified. —
I am hopefull, that You will prove more Successfull than You
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Not found.
164 Sir William Johnson Papers
Apprehend in Your Endeavors, to obtain the Number of Batteau
Men, You may want, as I cannot Encourage You to Expect
any of the Troops for that Service; as I observed in my former,
were I to grant You the Number You may have Occasion for,
You could not be able to rely on their Sufficient care to prevent
any imbezzlement, or that they would Execute the Service in
Such Manner, as would be most agreable to the Indians Which
I would wish Should be done; You must therefore get those
You may want, and that at as reasonable a rate as possible, as I
cannot fix You an Settled price for their labor 'p day Since
perhaps You might not be able to get them for Such a price, &
Consequently the Service might be retarded by it, to prevent
Which You will do for the best. —
I Enclose You Some intelligence I received from Crown Point,
brought by two Indians, Who pretended to have made their
Escape; the real truth is, and Which has been found out Since,
that these people came out with a party of Nine others, with a
design to take a Prisoner, but finding an Opportunity to make
an Escape they did ; and fearing to own the truth, least they might
meet with Some rebuke, they did not disclose the Whole, by
Which Means the Canoe & the rest of the party escaped, except
one Who discovered the truth & is now at Crown Point; they
were Sent down to me, and as I did not think it prudent to trust
them, I Yesterday Ship'd them for New York, in order to be
Sent from thence to Cranbury in the Jerseys, & Newberry in the
Massachusetts bay, their respective homes.
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir WM. Johnson Bar1.
Seven Years' Wai 165
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 3d. June 1760
Sir,
Since my Letter of Yesterday, Which goes enclosed the third
person therein mentioned to have come into Crown Point, is
Arrived here ; his name is Jonathan2 he is a White Man, belong-
ing to New England, & was taken When he was only four Years
old, he is now Nineteen, has ever Since been Mostly at Sl. Francis,
and Sometimes at Montreal, always among the Indians, Whose
Language alone he Speaks well, for he has almost forgot his
English, & Acquired but little French: As this Young Man from
his long continuance in Canada, & among the Indians, may afford
You Some Intelligence, that may prove usefull to You; I send
him to You under the care of a Man of the Royal Highlanders
for Your Examination, And when You have done with him,
and that You tell me I may trust him, I will Send him to Serve
with Rogers, Who is desirous of having him, and he himself
wants to go with the Major; he says many of the Indians are
gone to the Missisippi, but You will hear all he knows of it.
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 See Amherst to Johnson, June 4, 1 760 post p. 1 66.
166 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 4ih. June 1760
Sir
Since I wrote your Excellency this morning, by one of our
People who made his escape from Detroit, I am honoured with
yours of the 2d. & 3d. Ins1., together with the intelligence of the
two Indians, for which I am much obliged to your Excellency as
also for the opertunity allowed me of examineing the New England
Lad2 who resided so long among the Abanakis, or S'. Francis
Indians3. — on enquiry find he knows little or nothing of their
disposition, or connection, or, of any of the rest of the Indians. —
I take the liberty to send Your Excellency the information he
gave me, as it differs from that of the two Indians to your Ex-
cellency, on telling him, his account did not agree with that of
the two Indians, he answered, that if they told otherwise than
he did, they did not tell the truth, affirming that what he related,
was what he had seen & heard at Montreal before his departure. —
Severall letters arriveing here for Your Excellency from the
upper Posts before I had finished examineing the New England
Man, and, as I would not detain the dispatches a moment, I sent
them by the Soldier who brought up the Said Man, and will send
him to morrow by Water, in some of the returning Boats. He
does not appear to me a fellow of any design, he may make a
good Ranger, as he says he is a good Hunter. — I will try my
utmost to get as many Battoemen as possible, and on as reason-
able terms as I can, but am certain I shall not be able to find in
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Jonathan, alias Martin. See Amherst to Johnson, June 3, 1 760.
Ante p. 165, and also Indian Intelligence, June4, 1760, post p. 167.
3 A small Indian village on the St. Francis River, near its junction with
the St. Lawrence River. The village was entirely destroyed, and its in-
habitants killed or scattered by a small force under Major Robert Rogers,
in the fall of 1 759.
Seven Years' War 167
these parts half the Number wanted, were any of the Indian
Officers at Home, I would send them down the Country below
Albany, where I believe some Men might be got. but they are
all on service at the Several Posts. — I am most respectfully
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
\VM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major Genrl. Amherst
P.S. Captn. Lotteradge is gone on a Scout
from Osswego with 16 Indians in order
to get a Prisoner, they sett of the 3 1 st. Ult°. —
I expect the return of some other Partys
every day. —
INDIAN INTELLIGENCE
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 4th. June 1760
Information of Johnathan, alias Martin, lately fm. Canada
Who Says he was taken Prisoner by the Abenaquis Indians,
when he was but 4 years old, in New England. — That he has
been with them ever since, till he went out with a Party of those
Indians & 2 French Men, with 2 Inds. (who were taken by the
French at Fort William Henry) who took on with the French
&c to go together & get a Prisoner from the English at Crown
Point or thereabouts. —
That He & the 2 Inds. formerly belonging to Us, not being
inclin'd to proceed; went off in the Night, while the rest of the
Party were Sleeping — That He left Montreal 17 Days agoe
this Day — That He Saw in Montreal several English Officers,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, June 4, 1 760, ante p. 1 66.
168 Sir William Johnson Papers
he says about twenty, & about 100 private Men all Prisoners,
many of whom were Highlanders: The Report was, that 700
of the English were Slain & three hundred taken Prisnrs., near
Quebeck — That the Enemy were yet making their Approaches,
& Monsr. Levi1 sent word to Gov. Vaudreuil, that he Expected
to be in Quebeck in 4 Days
That the French had lost at this time 800 Men — That many
Women were in Tears at Montreal ; — That M. Bourlamarque
was dangerously wounded in that affair — That Monsr. Bougain-
ville commands att Isle de Nois,2 with 500 Regular Troops — It
was said in case Monsr. Levi was repuls'd, that he was to return
up the Country, & Defend the Passes on the Frontiers at Isle
de Nois &c — There were various Reports of an English Fleet,
& also of a French Fleet, but no certainty of the Arrival of
either : — that Ammunition was scarce, as most of it was at
Quebeck, when it was taken, Provisions very scarce, no Pork
at all, Salt 300 Livres *p Bushell, very little Merchandize, &
Excessive dear — That it was difficult to fit out Partys, for want
of Provisions : — To their Indn. Partizans, they gave only a little
Meal, a pair of Leggins, a Cloth to cover their Nakedness, &
some Ammunition —
That some Indians were withdrawn to Misilmakinac, as the
French could not Support them & most of them were to retreat
that Way, if the French could not keep the Country — ,
He says, that when Monsr. Levi was moving towards Quebeck,
he gather'd the whole Posse or Arriere Ban of the Country, to
the Amount of twenty thousands five hundred Men, with whom
he Proceeded —
N. B. After a more narrow Examination of the abovementioned
Person, it was found, that He & the 2 Frenchmen remain'd in
the Canoe, about 3 Leags. on this Side Isle de Nois, while the
Remainder of the Party wth. ye 2 Ind. (who afterwards came
1 Francois de Levis-Leran.
2 Isle aux Nois in the Richelieu River (outlet of Lake Champlain) ,
south of Fort St. Johns.
Seven Years' War 169
off) went on the Scout towards Crown Point, & when they came
to a convenient distance, the aforementioned 2 Inds. were de-
tach'd, by the Party, to reconnoitre the Coast, to see if any Boats
were on the Lake or any Partys out fm. Crown Point, & they not
returning, by the time they were Expected, the Party were
afraid & it being then Night ran back till morning, then lay by
in the Day time, but continued to run in the Night till they
reach'd their Canoe, when they told what had happen'd; & all
agreed to put off early the next Morning, being afraid lest ye 2
Inds. who were gone off would Occasion a more formidable
Party fm. Crown Point to pursue them, Hereupon this Person
(who says as he had sometime before determin'd to go & look
for his friends where he was born) took this Opportunity that
very Night After their Consternation, to Slip off while they
Slept —
INDORSED :
The information of Jonathan an
New England Lad returnd from Canada
where he had been numbers of Years
a Captive, taken down at
Fort Johnson, 4f. June 1 760
Inclosed in Sr. Wm. Johnson's of same day
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 6th. June 1760.—
Sir,
I am much Obliged to You, for the Orders You have Sent
to the two Indian Officers at Niagara to procure a Couple of
good Pilots, and to Decouagne,2 to Accompany them; this will
not only ensure a good Pilotage, but likewise prevent any Differ-
ences, that might Arise between our People and the Indians,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Jean Baptiste de Couagne, interpreter at Niagara,
1 70 Sir William Johnson Papers
for want of Understanding each other. — I likewise thank You
for having left open Your Letter to the Officers, by Which Means
Col°. Haldimand will be Apprised of the Pilots being procured
at Niagara.
In return for the Exact1 of Mr. de Couagnes Letter, I en-
close You one, out of a Letter I Yesterday received from Lieut.
Colonel Eyre, by Which You will See his reception & treatment
of the Indians therein mentioned Which is quite Conformable
to my Intentions & Instructions; has met with by Approbation,
and doubt not, but it will equally Meet with Yours.
I have also received Letters of the 1st. & 2d. from Colonel
Haldimand, informing me that Cap1. Lotteridge had been out
with Sixteen Indians, but that at 40 Miles from that Post, having
met with a party of ... . Indians they after Some talk by Mutual
Consent parted, And Ours returned back to Fort Ontario; All
Which I Suppose Cap1. Lotteridge has informed You of. —
Colonel Haldimand adds, What the Oswegatchy Indians told
Ours, of which I Send You likewise a Copy Whereby You will
See his Apprehensions of these Discourses, intimmidating our
Indians, & that he expects the Onnondagas would in a few days,
come & ask him for Ammunition, Whereupon he desires orders.
I imagine he must not have Seen Your Letter of the 7th. May to
Cap1. Lotteridge, Which was certainly very full and express;
Wherefore I have again referred him to it, adding that I thought
it was time enough to give them Amunition, but however, that I
should inform You of What he mentions.
The Connecticutt Troops are dropping in daily; The Jerseys
& Yorkers are almost all come; the Massachusetts I hope will
not tarry ; So Soon as there is a Sufficiency of the Whole I shall
Collect & forward them, Meanwhile they are employed in Trans-
porting provisions to the Frontiers, Which takes up a Vast Num-
ber of hands and a great deal of time ; I shall inform You in time
of my Motions, that you may be prepared to Join us with Your
Indians, Whenever there will be Occasion for them.
1 See Johnson to Amherst, June 4, 1760, Johnson Papers, 3:258.
Seven Years' War 1 7 1
Collingwood, and one of the other two, have agreed to go
with the Army; from the Character Ll. Col°. Eyre gives the
first, I fancy he will prove very usefull. —
Since writing the above, I am favored with Your Other Letter
of the 4th.1 Covering the Information of Jonathan, (Who is
returned) Which differs a little from that of the other two, but
yet, I am Apt to believe his may be the Sooner Depended on:
As he is a good Hunter, & Appears to You a fellow without
design, I shall send him to Join Rogers. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca. —
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
A. L. S.2
Fort Johnson June 10lh. 5 PM, [1760]
Sir
This Moment received a letter from Captn. Jn. Butler with
the following Account. "Yesterday returned Lieu1. Francis3 wth.
four of his party, who have been lost, I refer You to himself for
further particulars. This day returned George Mc. Micking who
met with Tawangatha within half a mile of Swegatchy and told
them as follows. — That the French were returned from Quebec
where they were repulsed with a great loss of Men, Cannon &ca.
& Six Ships, four laden with provision, the others with amunition,
they were taken by two of our Ships and a Frigate, soon after
arrived eight more, who oblidged them to raise the seige. —
They say that 12 Mohicanders were out in order to take
Prisoners, or Scalps on the Mohawk River, and that a French
Officer from Detroit was at Swegatchy, who said that the Indians
1 Ante p. 166.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
3 Lieut. Turbot Francis, of the 44th regiment.
1 12 Sir William Johnson Papers
(meaning Detroit) that way, were still in their Interest, and
that Numbers of them were gone to Canada."
This is the Substance of his letter wh. seemed wrote in a hurry,
when Mc. Micking arrives, I shall learn more, and transmit it
to Yr. Excellency without loss of time, the fellow Mentioned
to have met Mc. Micking near La Gallet, is the Head man of
the Swegatchy Indians, originally an Onondaga, who promised
me verry well last Autumn while at Osswego, Mc. Micking is a
young lad I sent out with a party of Indians from here Some
time ago.,
I am with all respect
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient,
and most Humble Serv*.
. T. ~ .. WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Major Genrl. Amherst
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 12ih. June 1760.
Sir,
Early Yesterday morning, I was favored with Your Letter
of the 1 0th, brought by Mr. Claus, Who having Still Some busi-
ness to transact for You Here, I take the Opportunity of Mr.
Schuckburg, Who is returning to You to thank You for the
Intelligence You have been pleased to Communicate to me, Which
I am the more willing to Credit, as that part of the Shipping
agrees perfectly with the Accounts I had had of two Ships of
War, and a Frigate having been Sent from England, besides
the Eight Other Ships of Lord Colvill's Squadron, All Which
the Indians could not guess; And it is more than Probable that
the Sight of this Fleet, added to the Enemy's Succours having
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Seven Years' War 1 73
been Intercepted and taken would Make them raise the Siege
of Quebec : On the other hand, I cannot Credit Some of the par-
ticulars contained in the Information Since received from L1. Col°.
Massey,1 viz1, of the Enemy having lost 5000 Men, nor can I
Account for What is there Said, of our Second in Command
having been taken Prisoner, in an Advanced Bastion, unless
Governor Murray2 had time to Intrench himself on the Heights:
Otherwise this must be Colonel Young that was taken on the 28th.
April.3
Ll. Colonel Massey, likewise mentions the Twelve Mohi-
canders, after Whom he has sent out a good party either to Over-
take or waylay them, and in Which he thinks they will prove
Successfull; if they do, it will certainly put an end to all those
Scalping parties, and make the Communication very Safe.
I have this day, agreable to my former Letter Ordered the
Commissary of Artillery to deliver to Mr. Claus Ten Horsemen's
Tents, Which is the Same Number You had last Year, and they
are the largest & best that are in the Stores. —
I am with great regard,
Sir,
&ca. —
Sir Wm. Johnson Baronet
1 Lieutenant Colonel Eyre Massey, of 46th regiment.
2 James Murray, governor of Canada.
3 At Ste-Foy. See Johnson Papers, 3 :244.
1 74 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
A.L.S.1
Fort Pitt June pe. 30th. 1760-
Hond. Sir
Inclosd. I Send you ye. Last Intilegance I Received from Fort
Detroat as to ye. March of a body of Trupes from Misasipey to
attack this place I Can hardly think itt I blive they only Report itt
in order to putt the Indian Nations into Confusion & keep up the
Druping Sperietts of Such Indians as they May yett have any
Influence over tho itt is very Likely they May have Some Trupes
Coming to Fort Detroat to Inable them to Defend ye. plaice against
us as they Expect to be attackt this Sumer Either from Nigara or
hear
Gineral Mongton ARived. hear yesterday and Inform*3. Me
he Intended to Send Some Trupes to Preskeel2 Soon part of which
is to Relive the garison att Nigara So that I propose to go with
them and Take as Many Indians with Me As will be Nesesery
for that Service and if I hear any thing Worth yr. Notice I will
Send you an Express from there I am Honourd. Sir yr. Most
obeident
Humble Sarvant
G:C:
1 In the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
2 Presque Isle, present day Erie, Pa.
Seven Years' War
175
CENSUS OF INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Oswego, Aug. 5, 1760
Return of the Men, Women & Children of the Six Nations of
Indians, under the Command of Sir William Johnson, Bar'.
At Oswego, August 5th. 1 760
Ienesegos
Senecas
Cayugas
Onondagos
Tuscarores
Oneidas. . ,
Canasaroges
Canajoharies
Mohawks
Schoharys
Mohians.
Chenngos
Oquagos
Ma was.
Oswegatchies
Canadrogas
The Belt party
Battoe Men ,
John Butler, Capt.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
I 76 Sir William Johnson Papers
JEFFERY AMHERST TO EYRE MASSEY
Contemporary Copy1
50 Pieces of Red Stroud.
18 D° of Brown.
15 D° of Blue.
29 Coarse Shirts.
1 6 Small Pieces of Canvas.
7 Small Pieces of Shalloon.
A Coat and two Bed Gowns.
161 Pieces of Gartering & Tape.
3 Dozen of Combs.
2 Dozen of Knives.
A Quantity of Rings & thimbles.
9 Bear Skins.
1 Buffaloe's D°.
64 Drest Deer Skins.
Camp at Fort Wm. Augustus
27ih. August 1760
Sir,
I have given a Copy of the above List to Sr. Wm. Johnson, and
he will Send the Chief of the Indians with the Indian Officers to
keep good Order, to morrow Morning at Nine o'Clock to the Fort;
Pray be so good to deliver the above Stores to the Indian Officers
that they may be distributed amongst them, with Which they must
be Content, & not Permitted to take any the least thing, that is
not given to them, it will Please them to let them See the Fort,
but they must be Obedient to Orders. —
I have Ordered the 1 2 p". Which were in the Willm. Jon. Brig
to be Landed for the Use of the Fort and ten of the 4 prs. to be
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Seven Years War 1 77
Shipped on board the Brig; the Commissary of Artillery will
Apply to You Accordingly.
I am,
Sir,
Your most Obed*. Servant
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
to LT. Colonel Massy
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Camp at Fort William Augustus,2 30ih. Aug31. J 760.
Dear Sir
I Send You with this a Translation of the Letter I received
last Night, by which You will See the Temper and Disposition of
the Enemys Indians. With this Intelligence, and the Talk You
will have from their Sachems, You will be best able to Judge what
will be the most likely means to hinder the Indians from Joining
the Enemy, in which Case, they may be Assured of being permitted
to Live in Peace and Quiet, and of receiving all the protection,
they can desire. I am, with great Truth,
Dear Sir,
Your most Obedient Servant
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
Sir William Johnson, Baronet
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Formerly Fort Levis on Isle Royale, known also as Oracontenon. In
the St. Lawrence River, it is three miles below the present city of Ogdens-
burg. Late in 1 760, Amherst, on his way to Montreal, captured the island
and renamed it Fort William Augustus.
1 78 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Head Quarters la Pointe de Boudet 3d. SepV. 1760.
Dear Sir,
I am Just now Informed, there is an English Prisoner at
Asquesashna,2 A young Lad, if this is the Case I beg the favor
of You to Send One of Your Officers to demand this Prisoner, or
any Other of the Kings Subjects they may have, as I by no means
Intend to leave any Subject of the Brittish Crown, in the hands of
any of the Enemy's Indians ; the Indians May be Assured of all the
protection I can give them, and that I will not permit any one to
molest them; but the Kings Subjects Wherever I find them either
in French or Indian hands, I design to release.
I am,
Dear Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Si. .L,.d .
Fort Pitt Sep*. 6lh. 1760
Hond. Sir
Inclosd. I Send you a Copey of ye. Late Conferance Held hear
with a Number of ye. Westren Nations for yr. perruseal. I Can
AShure you with Truth that Dureing ye. Time they were AS-
embled. hear they behaved. well & kept Very Sober Nott with-
standing ye. Greatt Temtations they had from the greatt quantitys
of Luquer hear after ye. busriess was over & they had Received
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Aughquisasne, an Indian village of St. Regis.
3 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
Seven Years' War 1 79
thire presents ye. Gineral was Ginerouss ANouff to order them
a Sufficent quantity of Rum to Make ye. whole Drunk fer Some
Days and while they were Drunk they behaved. with So Much
Sivelety to Every person as was Sufficent to Convence Me they
were Sinceer in all thire promises & well plesed with thire
Renewall of frendshipe with his Majestys Subjects
My Last to yr. honour was from Presqu Isle where I went with
ye.Trupes to Take post there Sence that we have Taken post att
Vanango1 I had Nott Time to Aquaint ye. Several Nations before
we Marcht of itt. butt as Soon as I gott there I Sent an Indian to
aquaint them, of wh. they have Sence upbreaded Me between
Jest & Earnest Saying I tuck a very good Method to first Make
a Road Throw thire Cuntry and then Aquaint them I was going to
Do itt. Butt I am Convenced. Now we Tuck ye. best Method
for had we Weated Till ye. Conferance we Should have Meet
with Some Dificultty Butt Now the Poasts are Taken and ye.
Communication open & Safe we have Nott had a Singel horse
Stolen on that Comunication Sence itt was opend.
Every thing is quiett in this quarter att present tho the Enemy
has att Least 1 200 Men att Detroat they have hosted of thier going
to Retake Niagara this fall Butt I rather think they are ASembled
there from ye. Elionios Cuntry to Defend ye. plaice Against any
attempts we Might Make there
we have Some Account hear of A paice or Aliance between
England Prusiae & france Butt I hope this May Reach you in
Posision of Monreal before you Receive any Acounts of itt
should ye. Acounts prove True I wish you a Successfull Campain
and am with Greatt Esteem & Regard yr. Honours
Most Obeident and
Humble Servant
Geo. Croghan
To the Honourable
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
1 Fort Venango, Fort Machault, on Allegheny River near French Creek,
Western Pennsylvania.
180
Sir William Johnson Papers
Mohaw^i
A LIST OF INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
September 13th. 1760
a Return of such Indians as proceeded with the Army under
the Command of His Excellency General Amherst, from Fort
William Augustus to Montreal.
Thigh resa
Canaghsadirho
Canadiorha
Thaondariaco
Sakoyenderese
Tekahowaghse
Anoghsokte
Quaghyaro
Aruntes
Tayorheasere
Canadohare
Aquilaighse
Schanerowanchaddy
Raheyos
Canadaighse
Ondaraghniro
Tekayendanhare
Sotsihowane
Taguayanont
Tyoragara
Schanoghsonkoghtha
Carughyazigoa
Nokareghso
Tesonaronny
Tecanaghquaghse
Teyeyaghse
Canodadiro
Seth
Canadaraher
Tsiwaye
Sose
Anoghreande
Canadagaye
Sanagaris
Tekaroros
Canoghsaronwe
Onyhaweghte
Joseph
Tayonguario
Anughsakandiake
40.
Kaghwanho
Nadohonagaraa
Yonowandonyo
Soghradisse
Sakodyoughguisax
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years' War
181
Tehanoyoughqua
Tehodinaye
Kaghswoughdioony
Arosa. alias Silverheels
Tsyadase
Adundais
and the Belts
2 Nephews
Tetsiniyaghko
Otkoghraro
Otsdoghrodo
Onughrageghte
Otrewaghty
Caneiya
Sawanagarady
Seskye
Tehodoghwenzyokoghto
Canajoharees
Oneahario
Tekarihogo
Owadoqueani
Thayayake
Teyoghsaghrogo
Johannes
Canundaghkirha
Tehonaghrio
Onhaghdoro
Askodax
Sanughsise
Tehanaghrackhas
Soheandese
Tekaghnawadeghko
36.
Takeghsado
Tehaneyorea
Tehowakaghnerady
Carondodea
Sarahowane
Caroughyonko
Totkanaghdy
Sarahowane
Caraghkundy
Praghnyoghkandas
Thayendanega
Nicolasa
Carondodea
Tajotsyaronsere
Tyorhadaghrio
Othaharagueaa
Takoderioughtha
Tiyonquarony
Canonawandageara
Niguaddiha
Orunghyagareghre
Oghwisdadere
Kaghnitzha
Tewahowagarahe
Kaghnearase
Canoony
Wadoriadeghdo
Oneidas
Tyorhadaghrio
Oghsidago
Koweahe
Canaghsadirho
Tekahoweasere
182
Sir William Johnson Papers
Seghskyeghte Seghse,
Niyadatsiwak
nowack
Caristowano
Thaosaguatho
Kayoskodea
Teyoneghserise
Kanahokeayat
Skandyoughquathe
Tekahonwaghse
Orderihokde
Keckhox
37
Canatsyahoha
Kindarundye
Tsyotquaghdy
Tuscaroros
Koskhahho
Tharighwandos
Onoghsaweghde
Otsineghdara
Onowarandio
Caneiya
Teyohaqueande
Tekyaneda
Cayenquaradennyo
Thoghnyadega
Taroughyoughda
Atkaniyatha
Tekawisogo
Kaneahaike
36
37
Aughquagos
Teyakodereghsere
36
40
Canakaraher
—
Taquayanont
149
Tharaghkoros
M49: Indians
Caroughiyage
Takatsyot.
Kawissoko
Tanondoris
Onondagos
Senecas
Rozinoughyatha
Tekakedoraa
Kanuas
Oghwenzyowano
Kanayesty
Aaghrogo
Sanoughsis
1 Beginning second page of the record.
Seven Years' War
183
Cayougas
Skanaradyhis
2. Nephews.
Mohicfyans
Paghkenaont
Honamauckh
Mughaghkehandy
Tsiksakan
Maquamopogh
Madoghk
Kose
Aneweemot
Oscawaghkamen
Mahose
Tankalkel
Naghkaweemet
Eaidon
Knamhickan
Wosanek
Songose
10. Aughquisasne
Indians
Susquehannas
Tyorheasere
Tawine
Takaghragearat
185.
in a
11.
The Number of those that left us after the
Surrender of Fort Levi at our Embarkation for
Montreal are as follows. —
The Chieftains & heads of each party being
mentioned, viz1.
Canajoharees
Philip Cayenquiregoas Son & party 11
Oneidas
Skanondoa, Tayorheare & party 15
Canaghrageayat, Onowak & party 13
Nicolasa Thawayagearat & party 14
184 Sir William Johnson Papers
Tuscaroros
Kaghswangaroro, Karondawago
Tyoughquawago and party 23
Kaghraquatha of Canaghs1. & party 16
Onondagos
Canodok, Tekantskaranet & party 20
Saristageghto Kaghnighsyengo &ca 25
Caroughyazigoa Tsyonahady & p? 15
Otsino & party 7
Canatsyagaye & party 14
Skaronyade, Tagoughsa & party 11
Assarundunguas & party 23
Cayougas
Tekyaderowane, Yenahonke & p? 21
Ohio, Yowetho and party 13
Tsyohees, Tyoghyonko & party 12
Kadaheha and party 9
Ottowanino and party 27
Canadeniyo, Caneghdai & p? 31
Ethoweghko, Tayoheare & p? 11
Senecas
Takeghsados, Onoghsokto & party 32
Tyokenhasa and party 11
Ch
enusws
Tsoharis and party 17
Tekadoreghse and party 19
Seven Years' War 185
Caneghsonko & p? 9
Taghnatsiowane and p? 1 *
Canadaragey Indians 14
Atwanaickho Cayenquaraghto & py 10
Tyoghsweghdao and party 15
Sodyanont and party 8
Cap1. Harris of ye. Toderighronos & py 7
Skanyadaradighronos 13
506
Those who proceeded to Montreal 185
691
WM. Johnson Coll0.
JEFFERY AMHERST TO PIERRE JOSEPH ANTOINE ROUBAUD, S. J.
Contemporary Copy
du Camp de Montreal ce 1 6 Sepre. 1760
Vos deux Lettres de hier viennent de m'etre rendues dans le Mo-
ment; Elles me font d'autant plus de plaisir, qu'Elles ne respirent
que des Sentiments dont il seroit a Souhaiter, que tous let Nouveaux
Sujets du Roy fussent Inspires; Et Je veut bien Croire qu'ils sont
Sinceres de Votre part. Par Contre Vous pouvez Compter sur
toute la protection qui vous a ete promise, tant par ma precedente
Lettre, que par M. Le Cher. Johnson de ma part; laquelle Je
Vous renouvelle avec des Assurances que tant que Vous Con-
tinuerai dispose a Vous rendre Utile au Roy &aSa Domination,
Vous en Jouirai paisiblement. Et Comme par les Termes de la
Capitulation II Vous est permis de Sejourner dans le pais, M.
Vaudreuil, ni personne de sa part, n'a droit de Vous en faire
Sortir; Et Cela d'autant plus que Je Vous donne la permission
d'y rester et de Continuer ou Vous etes.
1 Figure illegible.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. Enclosed in Amherst
to Johnson, Sept. 20, 1760, post p. 187.
186 Sir William Johnson Papers
Lorsque Votre Commodite Vous le permettra Vous feres bien
de Vous rendre a Montreal pour donner au Lieutenant du Roy,
toutes les Lumieres dont Vous Vous dites muni. Vous en seres
bien receu, vu qu'il sera prevenu de Votre Mission.
A l'egard de ce que Vous paroisses apprehender d'une partie
des Abenakis, cela ne m'etonne pas; Je suit plus que persuade
que leur Attachement pour l'Anglois ne provient que de ce qu'ils
craignet leur force Superieure; mais n'importe par quelle raison,
tant qu'ils se comporterent comme lis le doivent, lis ne seront
point Inquiet.es; quand ils semanciperont & Secarteront de ce
devoir, Je S^aurai les en punir, quand bien meme ils r'entreroient
Sous la Domination francoise et qu'ils fussent appuies de Cette
Nation.
Je ne dois pas non plus manquer de Vous accuser la reception
de Votre Autre lettre, Vous assurant en meme terns que Je Suis,
Monsieur, Votre tres humble et tres Obeissant Serviteur.
M. RoUBAUD, Missionaire des Abenakis ~
la Compagnie de Jesus au Saut Sl. Louis
-
TRANSLATION
The Camp at Montreal, Sept. 16, 1760.
Your two letters of yesterday have this moment been received.
They give me more than pleasure in that they express nothing
but such sentiments with which it is to be desired that the new
subjects of the king should be inspired and I am ready to believe
that they are sincere on your part. On your part you can count
on the protection that has been promised to you both in my
preceding letter and by Sir [William] Johnson on my account,
which I hereby renew with assurances that as long as you continue
disposed to make yourself useful to the King and his dominion, you
will peacefully enjoy this protection. And whereas by the terms
of the capitulation you were permitted to sojourn in the country
neither Mr. Vaudreuil nor anyone on his part has the right to
eject you, and this the more so as I give you permission to con-
tinue to stay where you are.
Seven Years' War 187
As soon as your convenience permits you will do well to go to
Montreal to give to the lieutenant governor all the information
which you say you possess. You will be well received by him
because he will be already informed of your mission.
As to what you seem to fear from some of the Abenakis, I am
not surprised. I am more than persuaded that their attachment
for the English proceeds only from the fact that they fear their
superior force; but no matter what the reason, so long as they
behave as they should, they will not be disturbed; if they free
themselves and depart from their duty I shall know how to punish
them, even if they should return to French rule and be supported
by the French.
I must not fail to acknowledge the receipt of your other letter,
assuring you at the same time Sir that I am at the same time your
very humble and very obedient servant.
[M.] Roubaud, missionary of the Abenakis
of the Company of Jesus at the falls of St. Louis
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Camp of Montreal 20ih. Sepr. 1760.—
Dear Sir,
I Send An Officer2 with a party to take Boats to Gunnesadago3
for our Prisoners; he has at the Same time a Letter4 for the Priest
as You desired. —
The Gun Powder Which You mention to give the Indians,
Shall be furnished to them from the Nearest Posts to them, When
they Arrive at their homes ; they can't want any in going as they
will receive Provisions on their Route, and the less Ammunition
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 See Amherst's order of Sept. 20, 1 760 post p. 1 88.
3 Canassadaga.
4 See Amherst to Roubaud, Sept. 16, 1760, ante p. 185.
188 Sir William Johnson Papers
they have, the More regular they will be, of Which I hope, the
Officers Who Conduct them will have due Care. —
I am, with great truth,
Dear Sir,
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
SR wM. Johnson Bar1
AN ORDER FROM GENERAL AMHERST
Copy1
Head Quarters Camp of Montreal 20th Sepr. 1760.
The Officer of the 44th. Regiment, Ordered with a Party to
repair to Ganushsadagey,2 to fetch the King's Subjects Prisoners
with the Indians of that Village, will immediately go to Sir Wil-
liam Johnson, Who will give him an Indian officer to Accompany
him, and directly thereafter he will, with Said Indian Officer and
Party, proceed to Ganushsadagey aforesaid, Where on his Arrival
he will deliver the Letter herewith to the Priest (if he Should not
be with Sir William Johnson) Who will be aiding & Assisting
to him, in the recovery of Said Prisoners ; And When he has thus
received them, he will return with & Conduct them to this
Camp. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Canassadaga, an Indian village near Montreal.
Seven Years' War 189
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
A. Df. S.1
Montreal 27lh. Oct'. 1760.
Sir
Agreable to your Orders to me I hereby enclose you a copy
of my Journal from the Day of your Departure from hence to
the above Date, and altho it contains some things which not im-
mediately concern Indn. Matters, yet I would not omit them,
imagining they might perhaps be of Curiosity to you. You will
likewise find, that a few days pass't by since I am here, but I had
some Business with, or Visit from the Indns. of difR Nats. and
those never without something to ask, which made them so far
disagreeable to me as all Indians now a Days are an Eyesore to
everyone about the General, tho not so much with himself, at the
same time you will find Sir by my Journal that he is under Re-
strictions with Regard of granting them anything they ask for,
and I must make use of all my Eloquence to put them off and
then they go to Mr. Le Corn's2 or Joncairs3 who are glad to hear
of such Complaints, and make proper Use of it, and by what I
can foresee this will be nothing to what Visits &ca. I shall have at
their Return from hunting. The Inhabitants seeing themselves
free from their former Yoke are disregarding the Indians and
wont let them come into their houses so that they often come to
me for Lodging and Victuals the former I am Obliged to refuse
them having but a small Room and put them off with a little
Money to buy themselves Bread, the paper money wch. some
of them have being of no Value which they regret much. We
happen to be quartered at a Merchant or rather Indn. Traders
house which was ruined by Captures at Sea during this War and
consequently not overstocked with Necessaries to keep in a
1 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1, 1716-1777, M. 104,
p. 10.
2 La Come St. Luc, Luc de Chapt de, at Montreal.
3 Chabert de Joncaire, interpreter.
190 Sir William Johnson Papers
middling house, and we find that boarding is rather more ex-
pensive than the Tavern, being obliged to buy what fresh Provs.
&ca. we want ourselves, and by what I find the People want to
be paid besides. The Woman told me lately that two French
Officers boarded with them and besides their Rations of Provs.
paid her 8 Livers apiece pr. Day. The Scarcity of Necessaries
these People lived in for some Years passt and the Plenty of
Paper Money among them made them ask such extravagant
Prices for every thing and now the Eagerness of getting Silver
keeps up the Price with them and the only way to mortify them
is to have nothing to do with them till they come too me. Best
the Sadler keeps as good a House as any Tavern in Albany &
almost as cheap to which most all Officers resort to except some
few who happened to be quartered upon genteel able People who
invite them to their Table. —
As You was so kind Sir as to tell me when you ordered me
to remain here, that I should be allowed handsomly for the Service
I should be employed in, So whatever you please Sir to allow
me I shall gratefully accept, with no other view than to spend it
becoming the Station You pleased to appoint me to. —
There are only few vessels arrived from Quebec since Your
Departure, laden mostly with Salt & Claret. The former is sold
@ 2 Doll". pr. Bush1 as fast as it comes, and Liquors & Dry
Goods keep their former high Prices, and no Likelyhood of any
Alteration this winter. I can almost foresee that I'll be obliged
to hire a house towards Spring, the one I am in at present being
too inconvenient for the Business I shall have to do in that Season,
besides I think it disgrace to the Service to keep Meetings in such
a Corner as I am in.
Dr. Oglivie1 has been here these 4 Days and has only now
got a Lodging with all the Difficulty imaginable.
I have been asked by several of the Merchants now here how
it would be with Respect to the Indn. Trade. I told them I could
say nothing abl. that till I heard from you.
1 Reverend Dr. John Ogilvie, formerly rector of St. Peter's Church,
Albany, who later went to Canada.
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Seven Years' War 191
Gen1. Gage has granted a Pass to Hans Leger of Albany to
trade at Caneghsadagey with dry Goods only, he asked me if
I knew him, I told him no more than that he was one of those petit
Traders wch. seldom dealt honestly and only would be a disgrace
to us, he said he believed it and would give him a strict charge
that if he in the least misbehaved he should suffer accordingly. —
Mrs. Gage catched cold on her Journey, she is wlh. Child.
I understand there are more Capts. to sell out in our Reg1. I
wonder if Gen1. Amherst will think of me, if not, I shall instead
of gaining, loose a step or more as I hear an Officer of ours younger
than me intends to purchase. I cant think of any other Reason
the Gen1, has for neglecting me than the Disregard he has for
the Service I am in, wch. is very discouraging and has since given
me Thoughts of selling out and quit the Army, however in this
as well as in every other Respect I entirely submit myself to your
Advice & Direction and remain with the utmost Respect
Sir
Your most Obedient and
most humble Servant
Dan Claus
To the Honoble
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
PS*. Mr. Peters1 has given me in
his Accof. of Expences going to
Caghawagey & leaves to you
the Allowance of his Troubles
but I think the former is enough.
Col°. Haldiman has sent in some
Accols. to me for Indn. things that he
had for them at Oswego last Winter
I told the People I must first acquaint
you therewith that I had no Money in hands
for the like Accot*.
1 James Peters.
192 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM THOMAS POWNALL
A. L. S.1
London Nov'. 1-1760
Sir
Tho' our Communication & Correspondence has been long in-
terrupted Yet nothing will ever interrupt my Esteem & Freindship
for You. These Sentiments, which will ever remain with me not
to be alter'd by intreague or popular noise, have led me to take
ye. Liberty of Mentioning your name, upon ye. Vacancy in
NYork, as Worthy of that Gov't. I do not mention this as any
merit towards you or from any vanity of Hopes of Success by my
means. I have sufficient pleasure in doing ye. Act of Freindship
& if ye. thing be agreable to You — I acquaint You that You
may apply to Ld. Halifax —
I am Sir Your f reind & Serv1
T. POWNALL
Sr. Wm. Johnson Bar1.
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy2
New York Nov 3* 1760.
Dear Sir,
I receiv'd the Honour of yours of the 23rd of last month3 with
the greatest pleasure, as I am thereby assur'd you had not forgot
your old Friend, after a silence for some years from our very
different situations. Nothing in my present state can give me more
pleasure than the hopes I have thereby of renewing that friendly
intercourse which formerly subsisted between us & of assuring
you of the high respect I have allways retain'd.
1 In collection of Dr. Joseph E. Fields, Joliet, 111.
2 Printed in Collections of the New York Historical Society, 1876,
Colden Papers, p. 3 1 .
3 Johnson to Cadwallader Colden, Johnson Papers, 3 :268.
Seven Years* War 193
I am confident you will be pleas'd when you know that a very
great unanimity subsists in the Government whereby I hope my
administration will be made easy to me in my old age. The As-
sembly have resolved to give me the same support which they
gave to the Lieu* Govern1" & this was done almost unanimously.
I was formerly a useless friend, It will give me the greatest
pleasure if I now can be of any use to you & to have many
opportunities of convincingyou with what high esteem I am, Sir
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
Df.1
Montreal 6th. Nov. 1760.
Yesterday arrived here Van Alstine with a note from Mr.
Welles wherein you desired me to assist him in getting his Child,
I accordingly made all the Enquiry abl. it I possibly could and
by some Caghnawagoes who happened to be here found out
that the Child was sold here in Town [after the taking of it to a
Man]2 but did not know to whom [but] and this Morning after
enquiring for it in all the Nuneries I happened to meet wth. Mr.
Decougne that speaks English and on asking him if he knew
of any such Child he recollected and brought Van Alstine to
the house where it was, [r»ch. proved to be a] Sister to that priest
that came to the Post the Indns. were ordered to before the Sur-
render of the Town, he made some Difficulties.
Sir/
Van Alstine arrived here yesterday and according to your
Desire have assisted him to get his Child tho not without a Long
Search ab{. Town and some Difficulty of getting it. I hope my
Packet by Mr. Peters Surgeon is before now come to hand,
[since which nothing worth Remark happened.] The Priest3 of
xIn Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1, 1716-1777, M. 104.
2 Material italicized and in brackets was crossed out in the manuscript.
3 Roubaud.
194 Sir William Johnson Papers
St. Francois has been with me since and told me that this Indn.
had agreed to send a Prisr. with a Belt of Wampm. to settle that
Affr. between them and Captn. Jacobs but that it could not well
be done before Spring as they could not loose the hunting Season,
and at the same time begged for a piece of Colours towards their
going to Albany, he likewise asked for a Smith for sd. Indns. I
told him that as they were all gone hunting now there would not
be much to do for him at the same time if they behaved well I
knew you would have nothing again [st] a Smiths doing a few
things for them, he said Gen1. Amherst ordered them amunition
and some Provs. at 3 Rivrs. he asked likewise for a few Blankls.
& Shirts for some poor old People that could not go hunting, I
told him there were no such things [& You do not intend] in my
care to give [an;y]ed. Nor did I know whether you intended
to introduce such a custom, but he thought it indispensibly neces-
sary to have a little Store of such Articles if a lasting Amity was
intended to be cultivated & maintained with our new Friends &
Allies as without which anyone that was the least acquainted
with their Affrs. knew it could not subsist firm & strong. [/ an-
swered him also]
I have enclosed you Gen1. Amhersts Order to Interpr. Sl. Jean1
wch. he delivered me th' other Day after taking up 9 Deserters,
there are near 400 gone to Misilimakenac. We have a Report
in Town that Majr. Rogers upon demanding Detroit was attacked
and defeated by Monsr. Belletre & the Indns. thereabouts, and
that 2000 Indns. were assembled there to oppose any English
Army that should pretend to come there.
Preparations for rejoicing are make, towards next Monday
His Majs Birth Day
INDORSED:
Letter to Sr. Wm. Johnson
6* Nov. 1 760
1 St. Jean Russeau.
Seven Years' War 195
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary) Copy1
Albany 8lh. November, 1760.
Sir
The Memorandums You have delivered me in at the Same
time with the Accompts, I Shall try to fix in Such manner, as they
may be agreable to Your Requests. —
I return You the Accompt of the Batteaumen to Sign; with
that for the Pay of the Officers, to make the alteration as Men-
tioned at the foot thereof. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca. —
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
Albany 13th. November 1760.
Sir,
Agreable to Mine of the 8th. Instant,3 the Accots. You then
left with me have Passed Examination, and Enclosed You will
find the Warrants for the payment thereof, on Mr. Mortier the
D.P.M.G. viz*.
The first, for One Thousand, Three Hundred Seventy eight
Pounds, Sixteen Shillings & ten pence Sterling; the Ballance of
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. These paragraphs are
the final paragraphs of Amherst to Johnson, Nov. 8, 1 760, printed in
Johnson Papers, 3:277, which was taken from the Colonial Office files in
the Public Record Office, and from which copy the last two paragraphs
had been omitted.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. •
3 Johnson Papers, 3:277-78, and ante.
196 Sir William Johnson Papers
Your Acco*. Current with the Crown for Disbursements incident
to Your Department to the 5th. November 1 760.
The Second, for Eight hundred, Thirty Eight Pounds, Nine
Shillings & Eleven pence Sterling ; On Account of Your Sallary,
and the pay of the Several Officers Employed under You to the
respective times Mentioned against each of their names in that
Accompt.
And the third & Last; for Five Hundred and Seven Pounds,
One Shilling and ten pence Sterling, for the pay of Batteaumen
Employed during the Campaign in transporting Stores, Arms, &
Amunition for the Use of the Indians Who Accompanied You
to Canada.
The whole Amounting together to Two Thousand, Seven
Hundred Twenty four Pounds, Eight Shillings, and Seven pence
Sterling. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson Novbr. 15lK 1760
Sir
I am this Instant honoured with yours2 of the 15th. with the
three Warrants for ye. discharge of the Severall Accounts de-
livered you last Week, but I must beg leave to observe to your
Excellency that it is likewise necessary I have some money in hand
to discharge some Accounts not yet brought to me, as well as
for the further carrying on the Service, which you may be assured
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 The letter to which Johnson refers here is Amherst to Johnson, dated
Nov. 13, 1760, ante p. 195, and not, as he erroneously states, dated
the 15th.
Seven Years' War 197
Sir I shall do with all the Oeconomy that prudence & the good
of the Service will admit of, Since I gave you my last ace". I've
paid Severall Bills which have been due some time amt§. to ab*.
one Hundred Pounds Currency, & I am certain there are more
outstanding yet, which I could not possibly call in before my last
Acclls. were given in. these, and what unavoidable little demands
must come upon me in ye. course of my management between this
& Spring, will need my haveing at least five Hundred Pounds. —
I should be glad to know what your Excellency thinks of my
proposal, that no Traders, or pretended ones should go among
any of the Indian Nations, or to Niagara Osswego &ca. to Trade
with them, without a Pasport from me. —
I am Sir
with the highest Esteem
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 19th. November 1760
Sir
Your Favor of the 1 5th. Instant did not reach Me before this
Day at Dinner. I am glad the Warrts. I transmitted You came
to Your hands in due Course, as I doubt not but they will Enable
You to Advance What further Small Expences May Necessarily
Incurr in Your Department, between this & Spring, Which, as
all passed, will be Allowed upon Your Charge, as I am Confident
You would not put the Publick to any needless Expence; the
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
198 Sir William Johnson Papers
Same reasons Shall likewise always Induce Me to Allow of Such
further Charges, as You have not been able to bring in Your last
Accompts, thro' reason of their not having been Demanded of
You, prior to them. —
I have Maturely weighed Your proposal in relation to the
Indian Trade; the prohibiting its being Carried on without Your
passports, I am Confident must be productive of much good, So
long as it rests with Yourself; but how differently this measure
may turn out, if thro' Your declining the managem*. of it here-
after, it Should pass into other hands, I cannot Answer for; And
as Doubtless, Whoever Should, in Such Case Succeed You,
would from this precedent Claim the Same privilege, Which tho'
well vested in You, might not be so in them, I cannot prevail on
myself to grant Such a Latitude; Wherefore, And as we may
now Expect Some Answer to the Plan of Indian Trade, Which
You formerly Sketched out, and Which has been transmitted
to the Ministry, I would Chuse to Wait their Decision, before I
Determine upon the Point in Question, in Which I am Sure You
will Join in opinion with me. —
The Bearer of Your Letter desired the Receipt, against the
Scurvy ; Enclosed I send You a Copy of it. —
I am, with great regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
PROCEEDINGS OF AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[Dec. 3-5, 1760]
At a Conference Held at D'Troit By George Croghan Esquire
Deputy Agent To the Honourable Sir William Johnson Baronet,
His Majesty's sole Agent and Superintendant, for Indian Affairs,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Seven Years' War 199
in the Northren District of North America with the Weyondotts,
Ottawas and Putewattimies December the 3d
1760 —
Present
Major Robert Rogers Commanding His Majestys Troops
Captain Donnald Campble1 Governor of D'Troit.
A Number of Officers and other Gentlemen, & several of the
principal Inhabitants
Captain Henry Montour Interpreter
And several Deputys of the Nations Living on the Ohio, who
Accompanied us.
Brethren, Chiefs, and Warriors, of the several Nations now present
You have been made Acquainted with the Success of His
Majestys Troops, under the Command of Excellency General
Amhurst; And the Reduction of all Cannada; And now you are
Eye Witnesses to the Surrender of this place, agreable to the
Capitulation, as I sent you Word before the arrival of His
Majestys Troops: you see now your Fathers are become English
Subjects you are therefore desired To look upon them as such
and not to think them a sepparate People, And as long as you
Adheare to His Majestys Interest and Beheave yourselves well
to all His Subjects as Faithfull Allies; you may depend on heaving
a free open Trade with your Brethren the English, and be pro-
tected by His Majesty King George, now your Father and my
Master.
A Belt
Brethren
At a Conference held with several Chiefs & Deputys of your
several Nations at Pittsburg this Summer; you Tould me that
all our Prisoners which has been Taken since the War, yet Re-
maining in your Possession was then Set at Liberty to Return
Home if they Pleased; Now I have received by Major Rogers
the Commanding Officer here, General Amhursts & Sir William
1 Captain Donald Campbell.
200 Sir William Johnson Papers
Johnson's Orders To demand due Performance of your Prom-
ise; and desire you may forewith deliver them up, as that is the
only way you can convince us of your Sincearity, and future
Intentions of Living in Friendship with all his Majestys Subjects
in the several Brittish Colonies in America.
A Belt
Brethren
On Condition of your Performance of what has been said to
you; I by this Belt Renew and brighten the Ancient Chain of
Friendship between his Majestys Subjects, The six United Na-
tions and our Brethren of the several Western Nations to the
Sun setting and wish it may continue as long as the Sun & Moon
give light
A Belt
Brethren
As my Orders are to return to Pittsburg, I now Recommend
Captain Campble to you as he is appointed by His Majestys
Commander in Chief to be Governor of this place ; with him you
must Transact the Publick Bussiness; and you may depend that
He will do you all the Service in his Power, and see that Justice
is done you in Trade.
A Belt
Brethren Chiefs & Warrior's
As the Ancient Friendship that long Subsisted between our
Ancesters is now Renewed I wash the Blood of the Earth that
has been shed since the present War, that you may Smell the
Sweet Virdoure of the Sprining Herb's and Bury the War
Hatchet in the Bottomless Pitt.
A Belt
Brethren
I Know your Warriors have all a Martial Sperit & must be
imployed at War; And if they want diversion after the Fateague
of Hunting, there is your Natural Enemy's the Cherokees, with
whome you have been long at War; There your Warriors will
Seven Years' War 201
find diversion, & there they may go; they have no other place to
go; as all Nations Else is become the Subjects of great Brittain.
A Belt
Brethren
As I Command this Garrison for His Majesty King George
I must acquaint you that all the Settlers living in this Country
are my Masters Subjects therefore I take this Oppertunity to
desire you, our Brethren of the several Nations ; not to Take any
of their Effects from them by force nor Kill or Steal any of their
Cattle as I shall look on any Insult of that kind as if done to me,
as they are Under my Protection; I disire you Incourage your
Young Men, to Hunt & bring their Meat to me, for which they
shall be Paid in Powder & Lead.
A Belt.
Major Rogers Acquainted the Indians that He was going to
Mischillimackinack to Releive that Garrison and desired some
of their Young Men to go with him when he would Pay for their
Services & that he was sending an Officer to Sl Josephs, and
Waweaughtinnoes to releive them Posts, and desired they would
send some with him which should likewise be paid for their
Services.
A Belt
Then we Acquainted them by a String that as they had re-
quested a Smith to Mend their Guns as usual and the Doctor to
attend their Sick, that it was Granted them till the Generals
Pleasure was Known.
A String
At a Meeting held in the Council House December the 4th.
1760
Present.
Major Robert Rogers Commanding Officer
Captain Donnald Campble Governor of D'Troit
202 Sir William Johnson Papers
A Number of other Officers & Gentlemen
George Croghan Esquire Deputy Agent
Captain Henry Montour Interpreter
The same Indians
A Principal Man of the Weyondotts Spoke and said Brethren
we have heared & Considered what you said to us Yesterday, and
are met this day to Return you our Answer agreable to our
Promise.
Achonnere Speaker Adressed his Speech to Major Rogers,
Cap1. Campble & Myself.
Brethren.
We have heard what you said to us Yesterday we are like a
lost People as we have lost many of our principal Men, and we
hope you will excuse us if we should make any Mistakes, but
we assure you our Hearts are Good Towards our Brethren the
English: When your General and Sir William Johnson took
all Cannada the Ordered you to send us Word; we received your
Messages, & we see by your Removing the French in the Manner
you have from here, that what you said to us by your Messengers
is True ; Brethren be it so ; and continue as you have begun for the
Good of us all ; All the Indians in this Country are Allies to each
other and as one People : that you have said to us, is very agreable
& we hope you will continue to Strengthen the Ancient Chain
of Friendship
A Belt
You desired us Yesterday to perform our Promise and deliver
you up your Prisoners it is very True we did promise to deliver
them up, and has since delivered up many, what would you
have us do; there is very few here at Present they are all yours,
& you shall have them as soon as Possible ; tho we do not choose
to Force them that have a mind to live with us.
A Belt
Seven Years' War 203
Brethren
Yesterday you Renewed and brightned the Ancient Chain of
Friendsp between our Ancesters, The six Nations, & you
Brethren; I am Glad to hear that you our Brethren the English
and Six Nations have Renewed and Strengthened the Ancient
Chain of Friendship Subsisting between us, & we assure you, that
if ever it be broak it will be on your side, and it is in your Power,
as you are an Able People to prevent it for while this Friendship
is preserved we shall be a Strong Body of People; & do not let
a Small Matter make a difference between us.
A Belt.
Brethren
You Yesterday desired us to be strong, and preserve the Chain
of Friendship free from Rust, Brethren look on this Friendship Belt
where we have the Six Nations and you by the Hand, this Belt
was delivered us by our Brethren the English and Six Nations
when first you came over the Great Water ; that we might go, and
Pass to Trade or Council where we pleased, and you likewise
with us, This Belt we preserve that our Children Unborne may
know it.
Brethren
We have heard what you said Yesterday it was all Good but
we expected Two Things more first that you would have put it
out of the Power of the Evil Spirit to Hurt the Chain of Friend-
ship; and secondly that you would have settled the prices of
Goods that we might have them Cheaper from you, than we had
from the French as you have often Told us; Brethren you have
renewed the Old Friendship, Yesterday; the Ancient Chain is
now become bright it is new to our Young Men and Brethren
we now take a faster hold of it than ever we had and hope it
may be preserved free from Rust ; to our Posterity.
A Belt 9 Rows
Brethren
This Belt is from our Warriors in behalf of our Womin &
204 Sir William Johnson Papers
Children, and the desire of us to request of you to be strong &
see that they have Goods Cheap from your Traders & not be
Opressed as they have been by the French
A Belt 7 Rows
Brethren
Showing Two Medels those we had from you as a Token that
we might remember our Friendship whenever we should meet in
the Woods & smoke under the Tree of Peace ; we preserved your
Token & we hope you remember your Promises it was then said
that this Country was given by God to the Indians and that you
would preserve it for our Joint use when we first met under a
Shade, as there was no Houses in thise Times.
The same Speaker Adressing himself to the Six Nations
Brethren
I am very Glad to hear what our Brethren the English has said
to us, and I now send this String by you, & take the Chiefs of the
Six Nations by the Hand to come here to Council next Spring.
A String.
Brother Adressing himself [to] me.
You have been imployed by the King of England & Sir William
Johnson among many Nations of Indians in settling this Peace
now you are sent here where our Council Fire is, the smoke of
which ascends to the Skie, you are going away & all Nations to the
Sun setting is to meet here to see their Brethren the English in
Possession of this place & we desire you may stay here till that
Council; that you may take your Masters Word of what will
be Transacted here.
A Belt.
Brethren
By this String we Request you will Consider, as it will be
difficult for us to understand each other, it would be agreable to
us ; if you would continue our Old Interpreter as he Understands
our Languige well.
A String
Seven Years War 205
At a Metting held in the Council House Decmber 5th 1 760
Present
Major Robert Rogers Commanding Officer
Captain Donnald Campble Governor of D'Troit
A Number of other Officers & Gentlemen
George Croghan Esquire Deputy Agent
Captain Henry Montour Interpreter
The same Indians
The principal Man of the Putiwattimies Spoke
Brethren
Yesterday Our Uncles the Weyondotts spoke to you for us all,
do not be Surprised at it, they have more Understanding in
Council Affairs than us, we have imployed them to speak for
us all and Confirm what they have said by this Belt.
A Belt
Brethren
be Strong & bring large Quantities of Goods to Supply us, and
we will bring all our Furrs to this place we are Glad you Ac-
quainted us, that the Inhabitants of French here are become
Brittish Subjects, we shall look upon them as such for the future;
& Treat them as our Brethren.
A Belt.
Brenthren
Our uncles gave us this String of Wampum and desired us to
be Strong and Hunt for you; we should be glad to know & fix
the price to be given for the Meat of a Dear. Then insisted
Strongly that the Six Nation Deputys should press their Cheifs
to attend the General Meeting to be held here in the Spring:
By a Belt.
The Principal Man of the Ottawas got up & made two
Speaches to the same purpurt as above.
Then I made the following Speech.
206 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren
I return you Thanks for the several Effectionate Speeches you
made us Yesterday: Today you applyed for your Old Inter-
preter; it is agreed to Continue him till General Amhursts &
Sir William Johnsons Pleasure be known you likewise desired
I might stay here till your General Meeting in the Spring. I
am not my own Master so you must excuse me Till I receive
further Orders
A Belt.
Then the Present of Goods was delivered to each Nation in
His Majestys Name for which they returned their Hearty Thanks.
Then Major Roger's Spoke to them.
Brethren
I Return you Thanks for your readiniss in Joining His Majestys
Troops under my Command on my way here ; as I shall Soon set
out to execute my Orders and Releive the Garrison of Mischilli-
machinack I take this Oppertunity of taking my leave of you ; and
you may be assured, I will Acquaint General Amhurst and Sir
William Johnson of the kind reception I have met with amongst
your Nations & Recommend your Services.
A Belt.
Then the Council Fire was Couvered up & ye Conference
Ended.
A True Copy from the
Original by Alexander Mc.Kee
INDORSED :
Copy of Conferences held at the Detroit
on the 3d. december 1 760, with the Weyondott,
Ottawas & Putuatami Indians
Copy Enclosed to Sr. Wm. Johnson 1 st: February
1761.
Seven Years' War 207
LIST OF INDIAN TRIBES1
Names of sundry Nations of Western Indians with whom the
English became Connected after the Surrender of Canada in 1 760
Sauteux Missisageghrono's
Podewadamies N'Dowadeny
Miamis Skeghquaneghrono's
Sakee Oyadogeghrono
Folsavoine Onatsyageghrono Menominies
Puants Awegachywageghrons
Renards Skeghsoghrons
Sioux Nadoweghseghrons
Gens de Terre Eeastiageghrons
Hurons Wiandats Tieu'non'da'df ha'ga
Chippaweghrons
Ottawawas
Kickapou
Taquina's
Otsiqui —
Cristineaux —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy
New York, 1st- January 1761 .
Sir,
Captain Prescott Arrived here last Night from England, by
whom I have received the most melancholy News of the Death
of the Late King on the 24th. October.
His present Majesty3 was proclaimed the next day, and the
Parliament met on the 26th. which You will See by the two En-
closed Gazettes, that I Send You for Your full Information.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 George III.
208 Sir William Johnson Papers
I Have the Satisfaction to Acquaint You that the Dispatches
which I sent by Major Barre from Montreal, met with the King's
most Gracious Approbation, and it gives me a particular pleasure
that Yourself, Br. General Murray,1 & Colonel Haviland,2 are
mentioned to me by Mr. Pitt, in strong Terms, of the Just Sense
His Majesty had of the Spirit and perseverance You have Exerted
on all Occasions in His Service.
I Enclose to You a Copy of a General Order I have this day
given, as the Indians, who were under Your Command, are therein
Included, and that You may make such Use thereof as You
shall think most Conducive, not only for keeping the King's Faith-
full Indian Allies firm in their Zeal for His Majesty's Person
and Government, but that they may be ready to Joyn, and Act
in Conjunction with the King's Troops against the Common
Enemy, whenever His Majesty's Service may Require it. I am,
with great Truth & Esteem,
Dear Sir &ca
Jeff Amherst
Copy
Sir Wm. Johnson, Bar*.
FROM GUY JOHNSON
A. L. S.3
Trenton February 2d. J 761
Dear Sir
I hope my last from Philadelphia which I sent by Mr. Forsey
came safe to hand since writing which, as Cap1. McLeane4 is gone
for England I have had trouble enough on my hands, I hope you
and Capt. Johnson have had an agreeable winter, As for people
1 Governor James Murray.
2 Col. William Haviland, Comdt. 60th regiment.
3 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
4 Capt. Allan McLean, who was court-martialed in 1 759; see Johnson
Calendar, p. 100.
Seven Years' War 209
hereabouts they can more easily pass away their time tho' Slaying1
is a thing much wanted at present, we had it for about 1 0 Days
at Philadelphia which was reckoned much longer than is usual,
& the people were so fond of embracing the occasion that no Slay
was hired under 30s A Day —
Governor Ellis2 passed thro Philadelphia lately in his way to
Gen1. Amherst, and as he lodged at Francis's Brother Relfe's, I
had an opportunity of hearing, that the cause of his Journey was
to represent to the General the necessity of his procuring Indians
to be sent to the Southward, he being of opinion that Regular
troops will never be able to do any thing in that quarter, & that
unless we can spirit up the Indians to go in numbers against
those of Carolina we can never expect to end the war in these
parts. And as he says the General has orders from home to consult
with him about Southern affairs, he makes no doubt of bringing
him over to his opinion. If so you have certainly heard from him
on that head before now —
Coll1. Bird of Virginia was married on Thursday last to Polly
Willen,3 he seems to be a very good natured man, who has his
Countrys interest much at heart, but from what conversation I
have had with him, he mistakes the means of promoting it, being
of opinion that his Regiment is capable if properly supplied of
extirpating our southern Enemys & talks of burning Towns &ca.
with great certainty, he seems to throw a good deal of blame on
Coll1 Montgomerys hasty departure from that place — a mine
of Silver ore being found out at the back of Virginia, which upon
tryal proves very good, he has purchased it and 'til said 'twill
turn out to great advantage.
This Day An officer from Rogers [run*/?] passed thro' here in
his way to York with the Garrison of Fort Detroit consisting of
3 Officers & 30 Men, he informs that Rogers is gone for Missili-
mackinac with 60 Men & Mr. Croghan returned to Pittsburgh —
1 Probably "sleighing."
2 Governor Henry Ellis of Georgia.
3 William Byrd III, and Mary Willing of the prominent Philadelphia
family.
210 Sir William Johnson Papers
Some of our Companys not being yet compleatd We shan't
leave these parts for near 2 months — McLean not bringing but
one Serg1. has occasiond me some desertions which otherwise
would not have happened If I have trespassed upon your time
from the length, & incoherrence of my Letter I beg You'll attribute
it to the pleasure which I have in writing to you which I shall add
to by subscribing myself Dr Sir,
Your most Sincerely devoted
humble Serv*.
G. Johnson
Sir Wm. Johnson
I beg leave to present my
Compliments to Cap1. Johnson1
& all the family
ADDRESSED :
Sir Wm. Johnson
INDORSED:2
Trenton Febrx. 2d. 1761 —
Lieut. Guy Johnsons Letter
FROM JAMES HAMILTON
Contemporary Copy3
Philadelphia I0lh. February 1761
Sir
Teedyuscung4 in a visit he lately made me shewed me a Letter
from you of the first of March last,5 wherein "after acquainting
him that his Majesty had ordered you to examine thoroughly
into the matters complained of by him in the Conferences at Easton
1 John Johnson.
2 In Sir William's hand.
3 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
4 Chief of the Delawares.
B See Johnson Papers, 3 : 1 94-5.
Seven Years' War 2 1 1
in July, and August 1 757, you desired to know when and where
it would be most convenient for him and the Indians concerned
to meet you, and the sooner you knew the better, that you might
give notice to the Proprietory Commissioners to attend"
He farther told me that this Letter was brought to him by his
Son just as he was setting out on his western journey, and that
he had hitherto made no answer to it
Then taking a String of Wampoum he expressed great un-
willingness to have this complaint heard by one, who he said,
was a Stranger to him, and acquainted me that the Indians were
all desirous it should be heard by me as Governor of this Province,
and that there would be a good opportunity of doing it at the
great Meeting of Western Indians which was intended to be at
Philadelphia the next Summer, where all the Indians concerned
in those complaints had agreed to have them heard and adjusted.
I know not whence this change in Teedyuscung arises, but can-
not help suspecting that it may be suggested to him by some people
here with whom he is very intimate, and who might give him
this advice that they might have the entire management of him
and this whole affair during the Treaty, in opposition to and
dislike of the Proprietors. This made me express great reluctance
at his proposal, and I returned him no other Answer than that I
would take his request into consideration.
I have ever been of opinion, that you, who are His Majesties
Agent for Indian affairs, and are perfectly well acquainted with
the Rights, Sentiments and Interests of the six Nation Indians,
should not only hear and determine this, but all other matters
relative to Indians, and, were I to follow my Inclination as well
as Judgement, I would have rejected the proposals; but if never-
theless these officious people would not interfere, and you shall
judge, from the present circumstances of affairs and the minds of
the six Nation Indians who may be consulted as being concerned
to support their own rights and proceedings, that my hearing it
will contribute to the general good I will not decline it. But then
should you advise me to undertake this — I beg leave to use the
precaution of assuring you, that, if I find any undue influences
212 Sir William Johnson Papers
or any partial interferings from the people of this City, I will
desist and leave it to be heard by you.
I am further to acquaint you, that we are like to have fresh
trouble, and I am afraid the renewal of the Indian war from a
most Wicked revival of the Connecticut claims, these restless
Spirits have actually come at the close of the last Summer and
laid out Townships on the west side of Delaware river on Lands
not purchased of the Indians, and left some of their people to
retain the Possession during the Winter, intending to joyn them
with vast numbers in the Spring, and to carry all before them by
force. — as soon as I was informed that there were some Con-
necticut people settling over against Cushietunk, in the upper
parts of Northampton County, opposite to the Jersey Station
points, I sent the Sheriff and some of the Magistrates of that
County to enquire into their pretensions & proceedings, and to
warn them off, — and on their return they made me a Report in
Writing, of which I enclose you a Copy, that you may see what
wild work they are carrying on, and what imminent danger there
is of our provoking the Indians to fresh hostilities. Indeed ! what
can they think of us when they see the blood of our Inhabitants
scarce covered, but we are quarrelling for Land that belongs to
neither of us, but to them.
I had scarce sent my dispatches to the Sheriff and Magistrates
but Teedyuscung came in great concern to inform me of this
settlement and to insist, that the Government these people came
from should be desired to recall them, and, if they did not, that I
should remove them, and if neither Government would do it, he
assured me that the Indians would do themselves Justice.
Accordingly I have wrote a Letter to Governor Fitch1 to use
his utmost Influence to recall the people already settled, and to
prevent others from coming, and have set before him the bad
consequences that may arise as well from the Indians as from
the opposition they will certainly meet with from this Government.
As I expect that nothing Governour Fitch can say or do on my
1 Governor Thomas Fitch of Connecticut.
Seven Years' War 213
Letters will avail anything, I was thinking to write an account
of this unhappy proceeding to General Amherst and desire his
interposition with the Colony of Connecticut, as it may obstruct
the Kings Service to have such a flagrant piece of Injustice offered
to the Indians who may thereupon be induced to withdraw their
friendship from the English Interest, and again become our
Enemies; but it may be better perhaps if you will be so good as
to take that task upon you, and set it in its true Light before the
General, and desire him to use his influence with Governor Fitch
to have this dangerous attempt laid aside.
I am under very great concern least the six Nations should lay
anything to the charge of this Province and therefore request
that you will be pleased to represent this attempt to them, together
with what I am doing to prevent it, and assure them that nothing
shall be wanting on my part to vindicate their and the proprietary
Rights from this mischievous set of Intruders; and if any thing
occurs to you that you shall think proper for me to do I shall be
infinitely obliged to you if you will be pleased to communicate
it. — I am with very great respect
Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble Servant
Honble Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1
James Hamilton1
FROM RICHARD PETERS
Copy2
~ Philadelphia, 1 2th February, 1761 .
Mr. Croghan has no doubt given you, from time to time, a
particular Account of Indian Affairs on and to the Westward
of the Ohio, and that there is a general Disposition in all the
Tribes of Western Indians to come to Philadelphia next Summer,
1 Governor of Pennsylvania, 1 759-1 763.
2 In Pennsylvania Archives, First Series, 4:40-42.
214 Sir William Johnson Papers
which will produce a numerous meeting. He will further have
informed you of the very bad behaviour of Teedyuscung, at
Pittsburgh, and in the other places where he had any thing to do,
and that he is in a very low repute among his Ohio Brethren of
the Delaware Nations. In fact, Chingass and his Relations have
the best pretensions to the Lands, concerning which the Com-
plaints were made at Easton, in 1757, and neither Teedyuscung
or any of his Jersey Basket makers ever made the least pretence
to Lands on the West side of the River Delaware. However
abundance will be said by them at the ensuing Treaty, and many
things which may affect the Rights and former proceedings of
the Six Nations, and therefore it may be absolutely necessary
that there shou'd be a very respectful Body of Deputies properly
instructed and impowered by the Council at Onondago present
at this meeting, and with them I hope and earnestly entreat that
Mr. Clause may be sent, cloathed with the Authority of a Deputy,
and as Interpreter likewise; for poor Mr. Weiser1 is no more,
he dyed suddenly in the Summer, and has not left any one to fill
his place as Provincial Interpreter, His Son Samuel has almost
forgot what little he learned. Considering these Circumstances,
and the Connections the Proprietaries, as well as myself, claim
to have with Mr. Clause, on all necessary Occasions, I flatter
myself you will readily spare him to assist this unhappy Province,
or at least the Government, in this important meeting ; And if any
thing happens to him that he cannot come, or he is necessarily
employed in other publick Concerns, I beseech you to send as
able a Minister and Interpreter, and honour me with a Letter by
him. I shall write to Mr. Clause with your Leave, as soon as I
am favoured with your answer.2
1 Since 1 744, he [Conrad Weiser] has acted a prominent part be-
tween the Indians and the Government, by whom his loss will be severely
felt. A faithful sketch of him by some of his descendants would be ex-
ceedingly interesting. — Footnote in the Archives.
2 See Johnson to Peters, March 4, 1 761, for reply post p. 231 ; also cf.
Johnson to Claus, March 10, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:352ff., especially
354-55.
Seven Years' War 215
The Connecticut People are making their grand push both in
England for a new Grant from the King, and in this province
for a forceable Entry and Detainer of the Indian Lands, on no
other pretence than that their Charter extends to the South Seas,
and so like mad Men they will cross New York & New Jersey,
and come and kindle an Indian War in the Bowels of this poor
Province.
Mr Clause will be necessary as a Witness on this occasion,
because he knows all the particulars of the vile management of
Lidyus1 in the Year 1 754, and the sentiments and purposes of
the Six Nations with respect to that Deed that was signed at
Lidyus's House by the Indians, as Lidyus cou'd bribe them or
get them Drunk.
The Governor has wrote you at large on this wicked revival
of the Connecticut Claims, and I wish either You or General
Amherst cou'd fall on some means to have it laid aside, for it
will breed a Civil War among our Back Inhabitants, who are
sucking in, all over the Frontiers, the Connecticut poison and
Spirit, and will actually, in my Opinion, go into Rebellion in the
opening of the Spring.
I could heartily wish that the Delaware Complaints were heard
and adjusted, for as I am determin'd to quit all Public business,
I shou'd be glad, before this be done, to vindicate myself, as well
as the Proprietaries, against all aspersions and accusations.
If by mistake any Error has been committed it would give me
a pleasure to have it detected and rectified; but I know of none,
nor has there been so much as a Secret in Indian Affairs during
my management.
May the Almighty preserve your Life, that in case of a gen-
eral peace, the Colonies may avail themselves of your Influence
and Judgment, in the settlement of all matters between the Indian
Nations and his Majesties Subjects in every part of North
America.
I imagine Instructions shou'd be given by the Onondaga Council
John Henry Lydius.
216 Sir William Johnson Papers
to their Deputies about this Connecticut mad attempt, Or if it was
mentioned to the Six Nations, they wou'd of themselves come to
some Resolutions, & transmit them to the Connecticut Government.
I most heartily congratulate You on the Surrender of Canada,
and on the most favourable situation of all our Affairs.
I am with very cordial esteem
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Feb. 17-18, 1761]
Tuesday February 1 7th.
On Sir William Johnson's arrival at Conajoharee, the Sachems
and Chiefs of that Castle came to his quarters and after their
usual ceremonys of wellcome were performed, their Speaker
Araghiadecka, (alias Brant), spoke as follows.
Brother Warraghiyagey
We are come to you as his Majesties Agent, and our friend,
to lay our complaint and grievance before you. We understand
from several of our Neighbours the White people that George
Klock (who lives at Conajoharee) has offered Lands of ours to
sale, altho' we are entirely ignorant of any right which he has, so
to do, we likewise hear that he has forbid some people residing
thereon to pay us any more rent, ordering them to bring, or pay
the same to him, if this is allowed of, we must become miserable,
and foresee our ruin approaching, we therefore beg you will en-
quire into it and procure us Justice.
To which Sir William made them the following Answer
Brethren of Conajoharee
I am glad to see you all assembled here at my quarters, although
it gives me concern to find you have any cause of uneasiness —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 217
with regard to your complaint concerning Klock, I shall, as His
Majesties Agent endeavour to procure you all the justice which
the case deserves, and shall tomorrow morning send for Klock
in order to hear what he says thereon, least it might have been
misrepresented to you. If I find that you are injured, I promise
You that I shall take the proper steps to have you redressed —
As I have it in charge from the Great King your Father, to see
that neither you, nor any of his Indian allies be imposed upon
with regard to your Lands, he has likewise given instructions to
that effect many years ago to the Governour of this Province —
The Indians returned Sir William hearty thanks for what he
had sayed, and then took leave for that night —
Wednesday 18th.
Sir William wrote a Letter to George Klock which he dis-
patched by two Indians, desiring he would attend him, in order
to inform him concerning the affair of which the Indians had com-
plained — On the Messengers return they reported that Klock
had gone out of the way, and delivered back to Sir William his
Letter
All the Sachems &c assembled at Sir William's quarters where
after condoling their losses, he acquainted them of his late
Majesty's approbation of their conduct last campaign in the
reduction of Canada, of his death since, and of his present
Majesty's succession to the Throne, assuring them that his present
Majesties intentions were very favourable towards all friendly
Indians, who might depend on his favour & protection so long as
they remained his Friends, and in alliance with the British
Crown —
Gave a Belt of wampum
He then proceeded —
Brethren,
I have considered your late request for a Schoolmaster to in-
struct your Young people, and agree to allow you one, as it is
what I much approve of, and hope you will make a proper use
218 Sir William Johnson Papers
of him, which will be an encouragement to me to afford you
farther assistances.
You should therefore find out a proper Schoolhouse, and I shall
procure you Paper, Pens, Ink, &c, having already made choice
of a Master to whom I have promised 20 £ a year to instruct
you — I have employed Mr. Colden the Surveyor General1
(agreable to your late request) to make out a proper map of this
part of the Country, whereby I may be the better enabled to
ascertain what Lands remain yet in your power to dispose of —
I have likewise notified the late Kings death, and the Succession
of his present Majesty George the third, to the five Nations by
Messengers whom I have sent for that purpose, and whom I have
instructed to insist on the Senecas making satisfaction for their
ill behaviour to some of Major Rogers's Men lately passing
through their Castle.
Sir William then acquainted them with what had passed be-
tween Mr. Croghan his Deputy, and the several Nations of In-
dians about the Detroit: and also with the proceedings of Lieut.
Claus his Deputy in Canada; & concluded by letting them know
that Gen1. Amherst had wrote to inform him that the Medals
which he intended for those Indians who had accompanied the
Army to Montreal last Campaign were almost finished, and
should shortly be sent to him, who was to distribute them —
After Consulting amongst one another near two hours, their
Speaker Araghiadecka addressed Sir William as follows —
Brother
We most sincerely thank you for the condolence you were
pleased to perform for our late losses, and we on our parts now
do the same well knowing your loss of people here, and over the
great Lake, must also have been considerable. —
gave 3 Strings of Wampum
Brother
The death of the Great King George must be a very severe
1 Alexander Colden, son of Cadwallader Colden.
Seven Years' War 219
loss to his people especially at this time, of which we are all
thoroughly sensible, but as we have the pleasure to hear from
you that his Grandson now King, is a Good man, we hope the
loss will be in a great measure made up in him, and we heartily
wish he may live long, and be successful over his Enemies —
A black, & white Belt
Brother
We are greatly obliged to you for the care which you shew of
us, and our Children, by procuring us a Man to instruct our young
people, and agreable to your desire that we should find out a
proper place for a School, we have considered thereof, and can-
not think of a better or more convenient place than one of the
empty blockhouses within the Fort where drunken people cannot
disturb them, we should therefore be glad you would speak to
the Commanding Officer concerning the same
2 Strings of Wampum
Brother
We return you thanks for communicating to us the news which
you have received from your several Deputies, and 'tis with
pleasure, we now hear that you have at length been enabled to
bring all Your Enemies to reason, and one way of thinking, and
we earnestly wish proper measures may be taken to continue
them therein —
Sir William then adressed them
Brethren
Altho I approve of the blockhouse which you mention, for a
Schoolhouse yet you cannot be able to make use thereof until I
have acquainted General Amherst therewith, and can procure
his approbation — which I make no doubt of obtaining, to en-
courage so necessary a work. I went to George Klock agreable
to your desire, but he not being at home, I shall take another
opportunity of hearing from him concerning you complaints, and
shall acquaint you therewith.
The Indians all expressed a suspicion of Klocks trifling and
keeping out of the way on purpose ; — saying, they knew him
220 Sir William Johnson Papers
to be a bad man. They then earnestly begged Sir William
would look into the affair, and not suffer them to be ruined.
After which the Conference ended —
P.M. — an old Mulatto Woman named Eve Pickerd waited
on Sir William with a Deed of gift (for a parcel of low, and
wood land containing about 1 1 00 acres) which she had, which
was dated last September, and which Sir William discovered
had been executed only two days ago, by three Indians whom
she called to her house, & whom she, and her Grandson (who sell
liquor) had made drunk, & then prevailed on them to sign the
Deed, without having a License from the Governour, or President,
with which unjust proceedings Sir William made some of the
Chiefs of that Castle acquainted, to whom the Land belonged,
which threw them into a violent passion, and made them Exclaim
against the deceitfullness, and unbrotherlike behaviour of the
white people towards them, who they sayed, dayly took all ad-
vantages of their ignorance, and seemed to aim at their entire
extirpation, — which they added, was a most cruel, and un-
christianlike return for their adherence to the English, and chari-
table conduct towards their Neighbours, when they were unable
to assist themselves
Eod. Die — A Tuscarora Sachem named Gawehe, delivered
Sir William a Letter from one Edwd. Johnson1 living at their
town, to acquaint him of his having began to instruct those Indians,
& the Oneidas in the Christian Religion, and as they were very
desirous thereof, hoped he would sent them some books, paper &c
mentioned in his letter; the Indian sayed a good deal on the
subject, and seemed an entire proselite. whereupon Sir William
gave him a Letter for such things as he wanted, told him he should
soon go to their Country and if he found they made a good
progress in Religion, and Learning he would give them all the
assistance in his power towards perfecting so good a work.
1 See letter of Edward Johnson to Sir William Johnson, Doc. Hist,
of N. Y., 4:310-11 (quarto, 4:200).
Seven Years War 221
The Indian then went thro' the ceremony of condolance, with
three Strings of wampum, next returned many thanks for the
order for the books &c and assured Sir William that their Nation,
and the Oneidas were fully resolved to get as much inseit1 into
the Christian Religion as they possibly could, and hoped by the
time of his arrival at their Castle, they should be able to shew
him, that they had not neglected it, but made some proficiency
therein — After which he took his leave —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
[Fort Johnson, February 22-23, 1761 .]
Sunday February 22d. — Two Onondagas, and three Cayugas
arrived at Fort Johnson, the chief of the Cayugas named Skan-
arady. on their entring the Council Room, Sir William bid
them wellcome, told them that the five Nations were great strangers
of late, and after ordering them some provisns. informed them,
he should be ready next day to hear what they had to say —
Monday 23d. — They assembled when Skanarady addressed
Sir Wm. as follows
Brother Warraghiyagey
I am come hither to acquaint you that the five Nations are to
have a Council at Onondaga within a few days, on several matters
of some consequence to them, after which I am desired to acquaint
you, they purpose to come down, and report their proceedings
to you —
You told me yesterday we were great strangers of late, it is
very true Brother we have been so, and some evil reports we have
amongst us from our Brethren the English towards Pensilvania, is
the cause thereof. We are told from thence, that the English
intend to destroy us, for what reason, we know not, however,
some foolish people amongst us, are credulous enough to think
it true, as we are not allowed Powder &c. as formerly, for which
1 Insight.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
222 Sir William Johnson Papers
reason we are obliged to have recourse to our Bows, and arrows.
I should hardly have come down at this season of the year, were
it not to clear up to you the cause of my not joyning you last
Campaign, as I was informed you were very much displeased with
those that did not. I therefore assure you that I was at the time
of your marching, and for two months after, bedrid, with a pain
in my breast, otherwise, nothing should have prevented me from
accompanying you, therefore I hope you will not attribute it to any-
thing else — By that sickness, and the weakness which followed
it, you may perceive I am reduced very low, and am become
destitute of every thing, which I hope you will take into Considera-
tion, and allow me some Ammunition — We have no news amongst
us, except that the Governour of Pensilvania has sent three belts
of invitation to the six Nations, desiring very pressingly that we
should go to Philadelphia in the Spring, to a Meeting he intends
to hold there, and after the Council at Onondaga is ended you
will hear their resolutions thereon —
Sir William then addressed them —
Brethren of Onondaga, and Cayuga —
I am glad to hear that the five Nations are about holding a
Council at Onondaga on matters of importance. I hope they
may maturely deliberate thereon, and when ended I shall expect
to hear the result thereof. After the many admonitions I have
from time to time given your Confederacy, and assurances of the
Kings good intentions towards you, and all the Indians who by
their behaviour shall merit his friendship and protection, I am
surprized at your folly in listening to such idle, & wicked reports.
Have you not sufficient reason to discredit them, don't you all
know, and have you not daily proofs of British humanity, who
not only give quarter to their most inveterate Enemies the French,
& their Indians on their making proper submission, but even afford
them more reasonable terms than their behaviour could give them
hopes of expecting from any Nation less generous, & Humane
than the English? How then can you become as infatuated as
to harbour the least suspicion of their having any bad designs
Seven Years' War 223
against you? Drop therefore, all Jealousy of that nature, and
behave yourselves as Brethren should do least you give us cause
to think that your fears proceed from a consciousness of your
having deserved ill at our hands —
Brother,
As I am sensible of your attachment to his Majesties interest,
I am therefore the easier satisfied with the reasons which you have
given me for not joyning the Army last Campaign, and shall order
you some cloathing, with a little ammunition —
I shall wait the result of your general meeting at Onondaga,
and heartily wish it may turn out to our mutual advantage
Then delivered out some Cloathing, Ammunition with a little
money to Skanarady, & the Onondagas, who attended the Army
last Campaign, after which they took their leaves —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Fort Johnson, March /, 1761 .]
March 1 sf. At a Meeting held at Fort Johnson
with all the Sachems, & Chiefs of the Lower Mohock Castle
Present, Sir Willm. Johnson Bart.
Warren Johnson Esqr.
Ensign Carden of the 1 7th. Reg*.
Little Abraham their Speaker stood up, and acquainted Sir
William that they were ready to proceed. Sir Willm. thereupon
answered them that he judged it proper after the many losses
they had sustained to condole with him thereon, agreable to the
custom, and rules prescribed by their forefathers, which done,
they might then speak —
They answered it was very proper, whereupon Sir William
began with wiping away the blood of their friends &c. from
their sight —
gave three strings of wampum
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
224 Sir William Johnson Papers
He next covered the grave of Thomas, or Ganughsaddishe,
Chief Warrior of their Castle, who died the last week —
gave a very large black belt of wampum
After which the Indians returned Sir William many thanks
for his kind remembrance and observance of the antient Customs
of their wise Ancestors. Then Little Abraham stood up, and
condoled the losses of the English, which he said they were sen-
sible must have been considerable during the War —
gave three strings
After which he proceeded in manner following —
Brother Warraghiyagey
It is now upwards of five Months, since the great Spirit above,
was pleased to give the whole Country of Canada into the hands of
our Brethren the English, and thereby restored peace to this part
of the World, which affords us all great pleasure, as we may now
have rest, and enjoy the benefit of hunting on our grounds without
molestation, and our Brethren the English may follow their several
occupations in peace. We cannot avoid observing to you our
expectation of your having ere now taken that hatchet out of our
hands, which you gave us in the beginning of the war, as the
French against whom we took it up are no more —
Delivered a black belt given by Sir William
to them (at the time Fort Bull1 was destroyed)
desiring them all to follow him thither, in
order to oppose the Enemy —
Brother
It is with great concern we daily hear of the troubles our
Brothers of Conajohare are now involved in, as we are given to
understand that the very Lands on which they live, and out of
1 Fort Bull, on Wood Creek, in present Oneida County, N. Y., was
destroyed, with its garrison, by a detachment of French and Indians under
de Lery, on March 27, 1 756.
Seven Years' War 225
which they get their maintenance, are now ready to be snatched
from them, by people whom they assisted, and nourished like
Children when unable to help themselves — This is a grievance
which we all think cannot be borne, wherefore we wish it may
be soon redressed —
Brother
It is now several years since we of the lower Mohocks did by
our chiefs (since lost in his Majesties service) make known to the
Governor of New York, and you of our having been imposed upon
by some of those who call us Brothers, by their taking Patents
for our Lands without the knowledge or consent of those to whom
they belonged, and without paying any consideration for the same,
(which is the case in that patent of Kaniaderusseras)1. also for
Lands whereon we live, which we are told the People of Albany
have a Deed for, and claim a right to it thereby making those
persons who reside thereon pay rent for the same which we
think very hard, and more than the King will allow. We
last year renewed our complaints to you, and most earnestly
requested you to look into them and procure us Justice therein.
You then assured us that you would write to England concerning it
but we have heard nothing from you since, relative thereto; we
fear your Letters are sunk in the great Lake, or that there is
no notice taken of them at home by the great King, on whom we
rely for justice — Pray Brother let us know how that affair
is, as all our people are very uneasy concerning it —
gave a belt
Sir William answered them as follows —
Brethren, of the Mohocks
We have all reason to rejoyce at the success of his Majesties
Arms in the reduction of Canada, and its Dependencies, a
Country inhabited by such a troublesome, and ambitious Nation
who until conquered would not permit ther Neighbours to enjoy
any peace —
Kayaderosseras.
226 Sir William Johnson Papers
As they are now in our power, & become Subjects to the Crown
of England both you, and we are thereby enabled to follow our
several occupations unmolested, and may at our leisure improve,
and extend our alliances amongst all the Nations throughout the
continent, so as to become in time of one heart, and one mind
together, a period which I hope is not far distant, and which
will greatly contribute to our mutual happiness & security. I
cannot with propriety take the hatchet out of your hands, as you
have expected, until all matters are entirely over, or I receive
orders from the Commanding Officer for that purpose, when
either happens, you may depend on my doing what is right
and customary. —
Brethren, and Friends
With equal concern I hear the constant complaints of the
Conajoharees concerning their lands, and I am resolved to do
every thing in my power to have justice for them therein — You
may remember that about Six years ago I wrote home to the
Lords of Trade concerning the complaints which you then made
and tho' some attention was then paid thereto, yet, the war in
which his Majesty has ever since been engaged, has so occupied
the thought, and time of his Ministers, and those whose Province
it is to enquire into and redress such grievances that nothing has
been done therein — You likewise know that I transmitted home,
your complaint made to me last summer on the same affair, to
which I have as yet received no answer, tho' I daily expect one,
and hope it may prove agreable to you; whenever I receive it,
you may depend on my acquainting you without loss of time with
his Majesties pleasure thereon, in the mean time I must recommend
patience to you, as Affairs of that nature cannot be so speedily
determined as you may imagine. —
The Mohocks returned Sir William thanks for what he had
said, and promised to them, and concluded with hoping that
their cause would not be neglected nor themselves slighted
when the War was over — after which they departed
Seven Years' War 227
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[March 4 J 761]
March 4th. — In the evening arrived at Castle Cumberland,
(a Seat of Sir Will1". Johnsons) twenty one of the chief men
of Conajoharee, & the first Woman of the Wolf Tribe, named
Esther, all in sleds, and after the usual ceremony at Meeting, Old
Brant, als Araghiadecka, their Speaker stood up and spoke as
follows —
Brother Warraghiyagey
We sent you three strings of wampum two days ago by one of
our young men to acquaint you with the villainous, and unbrother-
like proceedings of George Klock, as we have had no answer
thereupon and he still persevering in his wicked Schemes, we in
a full Council of all our People yesterday, judged it best to come
to, and acquaint you with his behaviour, and to beg your inter-
position, which we wish may be speedy and successful!, if not,
we fear the consequences may prove bad, as all our young Men
are highly enraged at Klocks, and some other people's conduct
towards us & with which we shall now inform you. We need not
repeat to you his behaviour concerning the Lands we live upon,
& plant, having when you were lately at our Castle given you an
account thereof — Since that time, he met with three, or four
of our Young Men who were going to hunt, and invited them to his
house, where after making them very drunk, he proposed to them
his desire of purchasing some of their lands on the north side of the
river and pressed them to execute a Deed for the same; which
they for some time refused to (altho' in liquor) as sensible it was
improper for them to do; but he plying them with more liquor,
(which you know it is almost impossible for them to resist) and
they being some of the most addicted thereto of any of our people,
he at length prevailed on them to assent thereto; after which at
parting he gave to each of them a bottle of Rum as earnest for
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
228 Sir William Johnson Papers
the bargain, and desired they would come to his house on the
Saturday following to execute a Deed for the Land, which Deed
he would imediately send to Albany to have drawn — We shall
do all in our power to prevent their going to his house as desired,
and we beg you will write to him about it, & forbid him from
using such unfair methods for depriving us of our lands, You
having frequently told us, the King would not permit any of his
Subjects to cheat us thereof —
Gave three Strings
Brother
Another part of our business here is likewise to assure you,
that the Land which we gave you sometime ago, was the unanimous
act of our whole Nation, which we are determined to abide by,
and desire that you may not listen to any idle reports, or lying
talk of the Country people, of which there is too often a great deal
— We do now in behalf, and in the name of all our people ratify
and confirm (by this belt of wampum) to you, the Land for which
we have given you some time ago a Deed, and beg you will
not regard what any idle body may say concerning it, or us —
Gave a black, & white belt
Brother
The Block-House1 which we told you when up at our Castle,2
we thought was the properest place for a School, we now find
will not answer, being made use of as a Stable by the Commanding
Officer of the Fort, so that we have been obliged to look out for
another, and Nickas, here present offers the use of his house, for
that purpose, provided he be allowed something reasonable for
it which we hope you will take into consideration —
Sir William addressed them as follows —
Brethren of Conajoharee
I heartily wellcome you all here, and am glad to see so many
of your Chiefs at this my new settlement —
1 Probably at Fort Hendrick, on the south side of the Mohawk River.
2 See Journal of Indian Affairs, Feb. 17-18, 1 761, ante p. 216.
Seven Years War 229
Your message by one of your people I received two days ago,
and in consequence thereof, I imediately wrote to George Klock
desiring him to desist from acting the villainous part, he has hither-
to done which I hope he will. If not, I shall take such measures
as the Law directs —
I have also wrote to the President of this Province concerning
the affair, and doubt not in the least but he will (by following
his Majesties instructions concerning the purchase of lands) put
a stop to, & prevent Klock, or any other persons imposing on
you — You may rest assured his Majesty, the great King George
will not Countenance the unlawfull purchase of your lands, by
any of his subjects, so that you, and your young men may rest
satisfied on that head, until I may hear from home which I expect
will be within a little time, and with which you shall then be
made acquainted —
Brethren
I thank you for the mark of regard shewn to me, and the
assurances which you now make of being unanimous in what you
have done — I never in the least doubted of its being otherwise
than a voluntary act of all your people after the solemn declaration
you all made to me at the time when you executed the Deed,
and you may be assured I shall not now regard the idle reports
of busy, or bad people concerning the same — I am glad you
have found a proper place for a School, and you may depend on
its meeting with all due encouragement from me as nothing can
afford me more satisfaction than to see those improve in Religion,
and Learning who are put under my care and direction —
Then the Meeting was dissolved —
230 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JAMES HAMILTON
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Johnson 4th March 1761
Sir
The Letter which Teedyuscung shewed you, was wrote in
obedience to his Majesties order in Council to me, dated the 29*.
of August 1 759, altho not received until a few days before the date
of my Letter to Teedyuscung. from the tenor of said order I cannot
dispense meeting with and hearing the complaints of the Delaware
&c. as well as the proprietaries defence by their Commissioners,
whenever Teedyuscung & his tribe, or these Indians concerned,
will appoint the time and place, which I am surprized they have
not as yet done —
His unwillingness to have his complaint heard by me, because
he is not personally acquainted, is really a very trifling reason,
and carries with it, a strong suspicion of his having been tampered
with, as well as an unbecoming oppossition to, and contempt of
his Majesties order, and his Ministers Judgment; which he must not
be indulged in, especially as it was his own request, that the
affair might be decided by his Majesty ; who, by the advice of his
Council was pleased to order that method, as the most likely
of finding out, and laying before him, (for his Royal decision)
the full and true state of that case, so that I flatter myself, you
will joyn in opinion with me, that that there is no deviating (with
any propriety) from said order.
I am very sorry to hear you are embarrassed by the Connecticut
people, and so apprehensive of the renewal of an Indian war in
your borders, was it in my power to be any ways instrumental in
settling the difference between the two Governments, I do assure
you, Sir, none would take a greater pleasure in so good a work.
General Amherst Influence and interposition (which doubtless
he will in such case readily afford) would in my opinion be the
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. This is in answer to
James Hamilton to Johnson, February 10, 1 761, ante p. 210.
Seven Years' War 231
most effectual method that could at present be used for accomo-
dating that affair, and preventing the ill consequences which you
apprehend may derive from it, if not timely prevented. I should
have readily complied with your desire of my writing, and laying
the case before the General but that I am certain it will come
with much more propriety from you, as well as be sett in a fuller,
and clearer light to him —
Should this affair unhappily go so far as to cause any emotions
amongst the Indians (which I hope will be prevented) I shall then
use every method in my power towards a reconciliation; in the
mean time should anything occur to me, which may be necessary
for you to know, be assured I shall not omit communicating it
to you, as I am
very respectfully
Sir
Your most obed*. humble Servant
WM. Johnson
TO RICHARD PETERS
Copy1
Fort Johnson, 4th March, 1761.
Sir,
I have been duly informed by Mr. Croghan, &c, of the present
disposition of the Indians in them parts where he has been these
two years past, & am glad to find them so well pleased with
the change, if proper care is taken by us to use them well in
trade & otherwise, & keep up to one uniform plan for the manage-
ment of Indian affairs; I am certain they will all become our
friends, on the other hand they can be very troublesome Enemys.
I am told by Mr. Croghan, & understand from the Indians that
there is a very great meeting of many Nations of Indians to be
held about Detroit the ensuing Spring. And the Six Nations are
1 Pennsylvania Archives, First Series, 4:44. Draft in New York State
Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson Calendar, p. 110.
232 Sir William Johnson Papers
asked to attend, but I have not heard any Indian talk of the Six
Nations going to Philadelphia, altho' they say they received three
Belts of Invitation, since winter, which I could scarce credit.1
As for Tedyescungs character, it has never been very favourably
represented to me, I shall know more of him I presume 'ere long,
as I expect every day to hear when & where he and his Tribe
will meet me, wh, when known, I shall Imediately acquaint the
Proprietarys Commissioners, then I shall enquire into & hear his
Complaint, which was laid before his Majesty, (& what the
latter have to say in defence of it,) and his Order in Council
Ishued to me for that purpose.
I was obliged to leave Mr. Claus in Canada to act there as myy
Deputy, when he can be relieved is uncertain. I have not another,
should there be ever so great occasion for one, (capable to
interpret or transact any business with Indians) since General
Amherst was pleased to discharge my Officers, who, now for a
Livelyhood, are preparing to go atrading amongst the Indians.2/
The Connecticut People, or any other Settling on Lands as is
said not to be fairly & openly purchased of the Indian Proprietors,
is very wrong, & contrary to his Majestys Intentions, and may at
this critical Juncture, when all Indians are more or less Jealous
of our power & encroachments, be attended with very bad conse-
quences, tho it may not appear in that light to Others. I heartily
wish the affair could be soon settled, if General Amhersts inter-
position can effect it. I know of nothing else here can.
I am sir,
Sincerely your Welwisher,
& very Humble Servant,
Wm. Johnson
Richd Peters, Esqr.
1 This letter is summarized in Johnson to Claus, March 10, 1761, the
Johnson Papers, 3:354-5.
2 Removal of officers from Johnson's suite and reductions in service
were mentioned by Dr. Richard Shuckburgh, Feb. 24, 1 76 1 . See John-
son Calendar, p. 110.
Seven Years' War 233
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Fort George March 7lh 1761.
Dear Sir
I have the favour of yours of the 20th of last Month,2 which
I delayed Answering by the return of the Post that I might be
better inform'd of something in it. It shall be my particular
care that the Indians shall not be decieved in any purchases of
Lands made while I have the administration that they be made
openly & fairly.
If they have, or shall hereafter receive any injuries, represented
to me in such manner that I can redress them, it will give me
pleasure to do it, & I will do it with the greater pleasure that I
know it will be agreeable to you. Please therefore to assure the
Indians of my firm resolution to that purpose. That they may be
the more convinc'd of this, you may put them in mind of what
I did in the year 1 736, after they had complained to me of the
Injuries done them with respect to the Land in which Livingston
was concern'd, & that to prevent the like for the future the regula-
tions as to the purchase of Lands from the Indians were made at
my instance.
I am told that Clock has only purchas'd a Quit Claim for
that Land without any Warrantee, & therefore the Indians are
in no worse state in that respect than before, but perhaps better,
as the Livingstons &c are under no obligations to defend that
title. You know that redress in such like cases can only be
obtain'd by process in Common Law or Equity, & how the
charges of such a prosecution can be defray'd, I know not.
I know nothing more of Ury Clock3 & Eve Pickard more than
1 Printed in Next) York Historical Society Collections, (1876); pp.
70-71.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:338-41.
3 George (Ury) Klock. The case of Eve Pickerd was described in
Johnson's letter.
234 Sir William Johnson Papers
what you write. No application has been made to me on their
behalf.
I have at present no thought of issuing new Commissions of
the Peace. Whenever I do I shall have perticular regard to your
recommendation. In case any application be made I shall be
glad to have the names of the Persons you recommend & your
reasons for prefering them to others in such manner that your
reasons may be communicated to the Council whenever any nomi-
nation shall be made.
Since I had wrote so far Mr Hartwick1 has applied to me for
Letters patent for two Tracts of Land on the south side of the
Mohawk River. One of which is a Tract of Six Miles square on
Susquehanna River. The Deed of purchase of this is in proper
form & the satisfaction of the Indians certify ed under your hand, so
that I think there can be no dispute with them as to this tract. The
other is in the name of Godfred Miller. Adam Sheffer and others,
bounded northerly by the Lands granted to Peter Wagener &
others, westerly by John Lindsay & others, southerly by Volkert
Outhout & others, & westerly by Otsega Lake & by the first Tract.
The purchase of this last is not certifyed in due form. The Council
advis'd the late L*. Govr. to grant this on your affidavit that
the purchase was made in your presence & a note given by Hart-
wick for the payment of 350 Dollars the 1st of May following
or at the time of surveying the Land. Please to inform me
whether the Indians will be satisfyed on the payment of the
350 Dollars as indeed they ought to be. I suppose one will
be deputed to survey it as soon as the season will permit.
Be assured that I shall be fond of every opportunity to serve
you & that I am with great regard, Sir &c
1 Rev. John Christopher Hartwick, missionary, who petitioned for land
granted to him in 1 756 by the Indians. See Doc. Hist. N. Y., 4:294-301 .
Seven Years' War 235
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 14lh- March 1761.—
Sir,
Mr. Harris, a Merchant in this Town, Who was particularly
recommended to me last Year, having Just now Acquainted Me
that the last Ships from Europe, had brought him a large Assort-
ment of Goods, fit for, and Used by the Indians; And being
Desirous to make You an Offer of Such part thereof as You
or any of Your Deputies may have Occasion for, he begs to be
made known to You; I do, in Consideration of the Persons,
by Whom he thus Stands recommended to me, take this Op-
portunity of Introducing him to You, that he may Inform You
more particularly of the nature & kind of Goods he is possessed of,
that if they prove to Your liking, and You Should have Occasion
for any, You may furnish Yourself and People with Such as Shall
best Suit You. He likewise Informs me, that he Intends Soon
for England And that if You Should have any Commands for him
there, in the purchase of any particulars, that You Cannot meet
with on the Continent, he Should be glad to Execute them to
Your Satisfaction. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
236 Sir William Johnson Papers
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[Fort Johnson, March 8-15, 1761.]
March 8th. At a Meeting held at Fort Johnson with several
Sachems of the Senecas, Onondagas, and Mohocks. —
Present
Sir William Johnson Bart.
Warren Johnson Esqr.
John Johnson Esqr.
Cap*. Jeles Fonda
Wm. Printup Interpreter
On the Indians coming into the Council Room, Sir Willm.
Johnson agreable to their custom, condoled with them, & wiped
away the tears from their Eyes —
gave three Strings
being informed that Tagethsadde Chief Sachim of the Senecas
had died lately, he with a belt condoled his death, and covered
his grave, so as to remove from their sight, whatever might
countenance their grief —
Gave a black, & white belt
This ceremony having been performed by Little Abraham,
a Sachem of the Mohocks — Sir William then told them they
might proceed to the business on which they had been dispatched,
Whereupon Anaroongo Speaker of Onondaga addressed him as
follows —
Brother Gorah Warraghiyagey
We return you many thanks for your condolance, on account
of our losses, which are really very great, and as yours (especially
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 237
at this time) must have been very considerable, we likewise condole
with you in return —
Then returned Sir William, and the Mohocks thanks
for covering the grave of the deceased Seneca in manner
before mentioned, and afterwards proceeded —
Brother
We are desired by Teyoquando, Chief warrior of the Onon-
dagas, and your great friend, to acquaint you, that since his return
from Canada, death has deprived him of all his Family and
party, (except an old Woman) which losses have so dispirited,
and cast him down that he is determined to lay aside all business,
wherefore he has directed us to deliver you this Medal, & Colours
which you gave him when you raised him to be one of our Sachems,
at the same time he desired us to assure you that he would ever
remain a true friend to the English, and that nothing should ever
turn his head, or heart for them. —
Gave three Strings of wampoum, and laid down
Teyoquando's Medal, and flag. —
Brother
I beg your attention to what I am going to say, as I likewise
do yours, Brethren of the Mohocks who are the head of our
Confederacy — I am charged by the Council who lately sat
at Onondaga to remind you, Brother Warraghiyagey of the many
fair promises made to us since the commencement of the present
war, by all the Generals who have been here, as well as by
yourself. First, that we should have a free plentiful trade, carried
on for our advantage, so soon as the French were subdued, or the
war was ended. Secondly, that the Covenant Chain of friend-
ship should ever be kept bright, and Strong, and the communication
free, and open between us — thirdly, that we should not want
for the necessaries of life if we joyned his Majesties arms, which
we have done more, or less every campaign; yet, we are sorry
to say these promises are not fullfilled, nay, we are now (by the
dearness of goods sold to us in our Country, and at the different
238 Sir William Johnson Papers
posts,) obliged to pay such exorbitant prices, that our hunting is
not sufficient to purchase us as much cloathing as is necessary to
cover us, & our families, indeed, our hunting is not so great as
usual — (altho there is more game) through the want of am-
munition which we can by no means procure. To you therefore,
Brother, we apply, as the person appointed by the King to the
direction of us, and hope you will take our wants into consideration
and let us have some ammunition that we may be enabled to hunt
for the support of our families ; otherwise, we must suffer greatly,
and may wish the war had never began, neither can the trade v/ith
your people, without such assistance, be as considerable as
heretofore —
Gave a belt
Sir William then returned them the Medal, and Flag, desiring
they would give them back to Teyaquando, and tell him, it was
his desire that he should wear the same, & continue to act as
he had hitherto done so long as he lived. That his looseing
so many of his people was the will of God, for which he should
not be dejected, nor neglect the affairs of his Nation.
Then laid down the Flag, & Medals, & Spoke to them
as follows
Brethren of the six Nations
As all my promises & proceedings with you are recorded, you
need not to have reminded me of them since I can be no stranger
thereto, I heartily wish you had all followed my advice, and
manifested more zeal for his Majesties Interest than you have done,
which had you done, you might then with more propriety have
taken notice of our not entirely fullfilling our promises, but the
Records are full of your promises, which were never performed,
and will remain as an everlasting evidence against you —
After the great expence which the Government was at last year
in Cloathing, arming, and supplying you, and your families with
provisions, you basely abandonned his Majesties forces, imediately
Seven Years' War 239
after the reduction of Isle Royale,1 which could not fail to exas-
perate the General against you, and occasion his entertaining a
very bad opinion of you; however, by a letter which I received
from him a few days ago, he declares he is willing to forget all
provided your future conduct be such as becometh brethren and
friends, and he is now About establishing an open and fair trade to
be carried on by his Majestys subjects, with all friendly Indians,
which trade, will I dare assure you be settled on such a proper
footing as will convince them that his Majesty has the welfare of
all Indians at heart who shall merit, and desire his protection.
When that plan for trade is once regulated (which I believe will
be in the ensuing summer) you may then have goods reasonable
and the more so whenever the war is entirely ended.
The scarcity of gunpowder of which you complain is owing to
two reasons, first, your deserting the General as I have already
mentioned, & secondly that our traders are discouraged from bring-
ing any powder amongst you, from the prejudice which you
entertained allways that French powder was better than English,
on which account they never imported any for trade, but probably
when they find a demand for it, they will bring that article amongst
you as well as other things; In the mean time I shall so far
consider your wants as to supply you with a little to hunt with, &
supply your families
Gave a belt in Exchse.
Brethren
As you have been unjustly charging us with breach of promises;
I must now tell you that you have broken your word with me, in
not delivering up all the prisoners in your custody who have been
during the war, notwithstanding I have with several belts of
wampum now in your custody, requested you would imediately
deliver all such prisoners up, which you frequently promised to
do, but have not yet complied with my demand, our (former)
enemy Indians have delivered up all our people who were amongst
1 Now Chimney Island in the St. Lawrence River, three miles below the
city of Ogdensburg, N. Y.
240 Sir William Johnson Papers
them, and how you (who now talk of renewing the covenant chain
as brethren) can presume to detain any I cannot account for,
unless you suppose us to be a very foolish, easy people, or that
we have no regard for our flesh and blood, neither of which is
the case — I therefore once more desire you will deliver up to
me or to the Governments they belong to all his Majesties
Subjects, as also all the horses, and Cattle which your young
people for some time past stolen, and picked up from the distressed
inhabitants of the several provinces, when these demands are
complied with, you may with more propriety talk of renewing
the Covenant Chain, and you may then find us ready and willing
to have it renewed and Strengthened
A belt
Brethren
You likewise find fault with my not sending oftener to your
Nations with news. Your bad behaviour last Campaign, and
lately to some of his Majesties troops under the Command of
Major Rogers is a sufficient reason for my not chusing to send
any of my people amongst you, and as to indulgencies which you
have formerly met with, they are not at all applicable to the
present times, as in them days, the behaviour of the 6 Nat\ was
much better than at present, tho' they then never received one
fourth part of the presents &c. which you have received from
his Majesty since my appointment to the Managem*. of Indn.
affairs —
Ordered a Cask of 50. weight to each Nation present
with lead in proportion, also pipes, Tobacco, Rum,
& some Money for their journey, after which they
parted —
Friday March 1 3 th. — Aaron, Zacharias, and Lawrence, three
Mohocks, waited on Sir William at his Seat at Castle Cumberland
with a Message from the Chiefs of that Castle, desiring to have
a Meeting at Fort Johnson as soon as 'twas convenient, they
having something of moment to communicate —
Gave 3 Strings of wampum
Seven Years' War 241
Sir William informed them that he would be at home on
Sunday the 1 5 th. in order to hear what they had to say
& returned 3 Strings
Sunday 15th. At a Meeting held at Fort Johnson with all the
Chiefs, and Warriors, together with the Women of the Mohocks
— Abraham their Chief, and Speaker addressed Sir Will"1, as
follows
Brother Gorah Warraghiyagey
We are assembled at present to disclose our minds to you and
let you know our unhappy situation —
Sometime before the last war, the King was so good as to allow
us a Minister for our instruction in Religion, at which we greatly
rejoyced, and in order to make his Mission the more agreable, we,
in a meeting of our Chief Sachems concluded it would be necessary
to give him a piece of Land for a House, Garden, and Pasture &c.
which we accordingly did, and thereupon he assured he would
continue to reside thereon and preach to us, so long as he lived,
but to our great concern he soon left us tho' we could never
learn the cause except that we heard it was for a better living
which we think strange in a Minister — Long after this, Mr.
Ogilvie came amongst us, and told us much to the same purpose,
but he has also left us, and we are now like a lost people, having
no person to instruct either us, or our Children, who are like the
wild Creatures in the woods, having no knowledge of the great
Spirit above, nor even regard for their parents, besides, we are
now all left at liberty to act as we are inclined, and our grown
people have become so addicted to liquor that unless some stop be
put thereto, we shall soon be a ruined people, and as the only
method of reclaiming them must be by the help of a Minister, we
most earnestly request that his present Majesty will be so indulgent
as to allow us a Minister to remain constantly amongst us, and not
to act as the former, which was as soon as they had acquired a
little of our language to abandon us —
We also beg that the land which we intended as a Glebe may be
242 Sir William Johnson Papers
given up by Mr. Barclay1 for that purpose, as we should soon
be without a foot of land for our own use, were we to give every
Minister as much — We have formerly sent several belts of
wampum to the great King to enforce our2 but have been so
unlucky as neither to see our belts returned nor our request
granted, wherefore we entreat you Brother to take our case in
hand, and try what you can do therein, as we imagine from what
you have often told us that the great King will not deny this,
our humble request, since it is the only means we have left to
render us happy in this, and the next World — We have
observed last Campaign in Canada, that the French have really a
great regard for the happiness of their Indians, allowing every
village a Minister, or two — according to their largeness, — and
we flatter ourselves, we have been as hearty in the great King
George's interest, as ever they were, in that of the French, which
induces us to hope we will not be refused so reasonable a demand
Gave a belt
Sir William answered them that he would transmit their request
home, and made no doubt it would be complyed with ; adding that
he was very glad to find them so well disposed towards instruction,
and observed, that their former petitions of that head, must have
miscarried, or else not been sent, otherwise his Majesty would
have granted them — and as he knew somewhat concerning the
Land formerly given to Mr. Barclay he promised to write to the
Governor of the Province concerning it. adding that Mr. Barclay
had offered some years ago, to give up his title to the land
provided he was reimbursed his expences for building an house
thereon, this proposal the Govemour might lay before the House
of Assembly, in whose power it was to pay Mr. Barclay his
demand, after which the affair would be settled to their satis-
faction — i K
gave a belt
1 The Reverend Mr. Henry Barclay as missionary at Fort Hunter was
given a grant of land by the Indians. See Barclay to Johnson, Aug. 8,
1763, Doc. Hist. TV. Y., 4:332-2, respecting this farm, or glebe.
2 A word is omitted here in the manuscript.
Seven Years' War 243
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
Df.1
Montreal 18th March 1761
Sir
[/ have sent the Pany2 Indn. who deserted from the Indns. last
Fall, he says they Were drunk when he run off and he was afraid
they would kill him, he was send along by the Officers of the Posts
this Way who gave him Provis8. & a passport, as I can learn. —
When I found out & demanded him of his Master J had more than
a half an hours oration from him but I shortly told him I had the
Cenls. ordrs. to take him & our Indns. would either have him or a
frenchman Wch. damped the Blind fellows passion & he consented
to deliver him up.]3
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 21st. March 1761 —
Sir
I am honoured with yours of the 22d. Ult°.° which inclosed a
Warrant for £ 1 000 Sterling, to discharge the Several demands
now upon me.
1 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1, 1716-1777, M. 104,
p. 34. This is a fragment of the draft of Claus to Johnson, March 19,
1761, Johnson Papers, 3:361, and in the original is a portion that is
crossed out. The remainder of the draft agrees substantially with the letter
in Vol. 3, mentioned above.
2 Pani, a term regularly used to denote an Indian slave.
3 This part of draft italicized and enclosed in brackets was crossed
out in the original.
4 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. A copy of this letter
is to be found in the Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. This
copy is dated March 18, 1761, and exhibits a few minor differences
from the A. L. S.
5 See Johnson Papers, 3:543.
244 Sir William Johnson Papers
I am glad to find the Intelligence and list of goods proper for
Indian Trade Sent You1 were agreable, as nothing would afford
me more pleasure, than haveing it in my power at any time to render
Your Excellency what little Service I can — I have sent for Mr.
Croghan and Montour to come this way, and desired the former
to post such of his Assistants as he may Judge necessary, in the
best manner he can, leaving them instructions, and directions to
keep up a constant correspondence with each other, and to write
me duely how Affairs go on with the Indians in their Several
Quarters, by that means I shall be able to learn the disposition of
the different Nations, and so manage the whole on One Settled
Plan.
When Mr. Croghan arrives, I will examine his Acctts., altho
they have always been adjusted and paid by the Officer Comds.
the Western Army. Your Excellency is pleased to observe
that he has been verry bountifull. I cannot say, otherwise than
he writes me, that what he gave to the Indians was cheifly by order
of Major Rojers, & in his & Cap1. Campbels presence, when I see
his Acctf. I shall be able to Judge better, in the meantime I must
beg leave to observe, that, as Mr. Croghan with the Indains he had
with him, and the method they took, was a safe guard to Major
Rojers in an Indian Country, where Our Troops were liable to
be insulted, his giveing them presents was I think verry necessary,
for my own part, I must acknowledge, I have given a great deal
of Money Goods &ca. both this, & last War to purchase ye. Interest
& good behaviour of different Nations of Indians, by the advice
and direction of the then Commanding Officers, & I realy thought,
as they did likewise, that it was money well laid out. & altho the
scituation of Affairs, then, & now is verry different, yet I think that
a little generosity, & moderation will tend more to the good of his
Majestys Indian Interest, than the reverse, which would raise their
Jealousy much more than it is now. — the reason of my mentioning
these was a necessity of haveing a Law passed for keeping Indian
Traders within due bounds (wh. I know will not otherwise be
1 In letter of Feb. 12, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3 : 330-33.
Seven Years' War 245
easily done) was from an opinion I did then, & do still entertain
that Lord Loudon had done nothing in that affair, the Officers
Commanding the several Forts, & Posts where Trade is to be
carried on between his Majestys Subjects, & the Indians, will
doubtless (haveing your Excellencys instructions) endeavour to
see a fair Trade carried on. My late proposal, that said Officers
ought to have it in their power to give (on proper occasions)
a little provision, amunition &ca, proceeded from the knowledge
I have of their wants & expectations when they are among us,
& so far from home, it is no new thing, we have done it. and the
French (who certainly were verry clever in extending their
Indian Alliances) did it at a verry great expence, and reaped ye.
benifit of it. — Should we Sir unexpectedly, or unhappily be
obliged to give up Canada (which God forbid) it will in my
opinion be (beyond all dispute) for the Interest of Brittain, to
shew these People a little generosity, and friendship, & thereby
shew 'em it is their Interest to keep well with us. the benifit of
a Free extensive and well regulated Trade, will it is true, be one
of the most effectual measures to convince them of it, but until such
a Trade be established, they, without haveing some little assist-
ance of the kind I mentioned to Your Excellency, from us, must
in the intermediate time suffer, and feel a sensible difference in ye.
change of Freinds./wh. in case of a change as above supposed,
may turn out greatly to our disadvantage. I fear, that you imagine
from my proposing the giveing the Indians some provisions &ca.,
that I meant it should be given profusely. I realy did not, and
only intended a small quantity should be delivered to such distant
Indians as might come to treat or trade, which the Traders have
not in their power to supply, neither have they had powder to
sell to the Indians as yet, so that if they are not allowed some by
your order, they cannot hunt, this is their scituation, which I
hope your Excellency will consider, and pardon the freedom
I take of mentioning my Sentiments so freely, which nothing
should induce me to, were I not fully sensible of your readiness
to hear anything for the good of the Service.
Lieu1. Claus in my opinion acts (in the scituation he is now
246 Sir William Johnson Papers
in) as well and frugal as any Man that could be chosen for that
Service, he has not as yet drawn on me for much, and from what
I wrote him, after the receipt of your letter, I dare say the expence
of manageing all the Indians in that Country, will not cost the
Crown as much, as four Familys of them cost the Crown of France
formerly, whether that change of treatment, be for our Interest,
at least until a peace is Settled, I much doubt. I should be glad
to know, whether Mr. Claus is not to have the same Allowance
as my other Deputy, and whether he is to be continued there
any time. —
I can give Your Excellency no other tokens of Kass the Ger-
man, than that he is the Man whom I brought to Head Quarters
at Oswego, & told you that he had been a long time Prisoner
at La Gallete, knew the Isleands &ca. and offered his Service.
You then desired him to go to my Camp & me to order him
provisions with my People, which I did, and he accompanied us
all the way, & returned with me. He made a kind of Draft of La
Gallete the Isleands & its Environs at Osswego, which I shewed
You.1 —
The Indians of the two Mohawk Castles &ca. as usual applied
to me a few days ago for Some powder & lead for their Spring
Hunt, as I received but 2 Hundred weight last Fall by your
order, which I then divided among them when going on their
Hunt. I have none, & not knowing who to apply to at Albany,
I wrote to a Merchant there to buy me 3001b. but he writes me
he could not in ye. whole Town make up 30 pound, so that I
am obliged to apply to You Sir for an Order to get so much at
Albany, which I hope You will send soon, otherwise the best of
the season for Bever Hunting will be over. The upper Nations
have also lately petitioned for powder, the Traders who go among
them haveing none, they must suffer greatly if they can't have
some from You. — refuseing them now, will encrease their
1 The copy in the Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6, has an
additional sentence at this point, as follows: "I send you a Certificate
which a Mohawk Indian who was to Detroit on service last year brought
me, and begged I would send it to you, in hopes of getting then his money."
Seven Years War 247
Jealousy, and make them all verry uneasy I am certain, this Sir,
I think my Duty to make known to You. —
f\ was honoured a few days ago with Yours of the 14. Ins1,
by Mr. Harris,1 your recommendation of any Person to me, will
always meet with the greatest regard, & altho neither myself or
any of my Deputys are concerned in Trade, I shall have influence
enough with those who trade, to prevail on them, to consign their
Firrs &ca. to him, for European Goods, which I have promised
him I would doy
I am Sir
with the greatest respect imaginable
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient &
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Castle Cumberland March 23d 1761 —
Sir
The Mother of Jacob Miller, a german Lad who was taken
at the German Flatts ye. same Summer that ye. German Flatts
was destroyed3 came this day to me, & begged I would use my
endeavours to get her Son from Canada, He lives with the Preist
at La Chene opposite Caghnawagey, and is about fourteen Years
old. I must desire the favour of You to get him from Sd. Preist,
and Send him home in ye. Spring by returning Battoes. If you
should meet any difficulty in getting him, apply to Governour
1 Amherst to Johnson, March 14, 1761, ante p. 235.
2 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1 , M. 1 04, p. 36.
3 Destroyed in 1757 by French and Indians under Belletre.
248 Sir William Johnson Papers
Gage, who I am certain will order him to be delivered up to You.
it will be doing ye. poor Mother a great peice of charity, and oblige
S'
Yr. Real Freind
& Welwisher
T T ^ n WM. Johnson
Lieut. Daniel Clause —
PS. My Negroes have got
the same Disorder, wh. carries of
so many Indians & Whites now.
I have already lost Kitchener, & Quacko
I beleive will not recover. Ury ye. German
is Just out of it. — I fear it will thin my Flock —
PETITION TO THE COUNCIL
D.1
New York 27 K March 1761.
To the Honob,e. Cadwallader Colden Esqr. President of His
Majesty's Council, and Commander in Chief of the Province
of New York and the Territories depending thereon in
America — ,
The Petition of Sir William Johnson Baronet, Ferrall Wade,
George F. Cheap, James Rogers, Dennis Maddin, John Johnston,
William Johnston, Peter Frax, Michael Russell Wilhelmus
Russel, Paul Reiter, Philip H. Klyne, John Spangenbergh, Lucas
Vader, Lawrence Eman, Michael Sallinger, Matthias Link,
Timothy Creitz, George Stam, George Stam Junr. Peter Cooley,
John Johnson, Peter Servis, Christopher Servis, Francis Rupert,
Adam Rupert, Hannis Wert, Andreas Snyder, Conradt Creitz-
enborgher, Conradt Smith, Jonathan French, Jacob Pickle, Han-
nis Wolfe Barlet, Augustus Eikler, Jacob Lefers, Johannis Alt,
Bastian Steenmyer, Stephen Kipp, George Kipp, and Peter
Frederick —
1 In New York State Library, Colonial Land Papers.
Seven Years War 249
Humbly Sheweth
That there is A Tract or Parcel of Vacant Land Situate
lying and being in the County of Albany on the North Side of
the Mohawks River near to the Conajoharie Castle and begin-
ning at the Northwesterly Corner of the Rear Line of a Patent
or Tract of Land Purchased by the late Teady McGin and
Others and lately Surveyed by his Widow Sarah McGin, which
Corner or beginning is on the Bank of a Creek or Kill Called
by the Indians Dekayoharonwe and About Thirteen Miles from
the Mohawks River which Creek falls into the Said Mohawk
River about Two hundred Yards below Fort Hendrick or Cona-
joharie Castle thence running from the Said Northwesterly Corner
of Said McGins rear line a Westerly Course to the West bank
of Another Creek or Kill Called by the Indians Deyoshtoraron
by the Christians Canada Kill at Burnets field from thence down
along the West Side of Said Creek or Kill to the Lands Patented
Formerly So down to the Mohawk River then Running round
the Several Tracts of Land Already Patented within the Above
mentioned two Creeks and taking in all the Vacant Lands be-
tween the Said two Creeks from the Rear Line Quite to the
Mohawk River Containing about Forty Thousand Acres of
Land: which your Petitioners are desirous immediately to Settle
and improve, being Willing to Submit to such Restrictions as to
the Settlement or Cultivation of the Said Tract of Land as Shall
be Judged Reasonable —
Your Petitioners therefore humble Pray Your Honour will be
Favourable Pleased to Grant to them Your Hounour's Lycense
to purchase in his Majesty's Name of the Native Indian Pro-
prietors thereof the Quantity of Forty Thousand Acres of the
Tract of Land above described in Order to enable them to Obtain
his Majestys Letters Patent for one Thousand Acres to each of
the Petitioners Under the Quit Rent Limitations and Provisoes
directed and appointed in his Majestys Instructions —
And Your Petitioners as in duty bound Shall Ever Pray &c —
WM. Johnson
in behalf of himself and his associates
250 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED :
Petition of Sir William Johnson
and his Associates for a
Lycense to Purchase 40000
Acres of Land in the County
of Albany —
8*. July U61 Read and
Referred to a Committee
A MEMORANDUM
A. D. S.1
Memorandum, March 28th, / 761 .
This is to make known to the inhabitants of Kings Borough
that for the encouragement of the settlers, the instruction of their
children, and above all for the good of their souls, I do this day
give them that for the above purposes and more especially for
the use of the Church as a glebe. I will give fifty acres of land
adjoining to the land of Peter Service and Christopher Service
his brother, which fifty acres will be a kind of triangle. This
writing shall suffice and secure the above mentioned land for the
before mentioned purposes until time will allow me to have a
proper deed drawn, as witness my hand this 28th day of March,
1761.
WM. Johnson
1 In the collection of a resident of Johnstown, N. Y. ; discovered in
1911. At the bottom of the agreement appears the following, added some
years later: "This certifies that the land above described has not been sold
or conveyed by the late Commissioners of Forfeitures of the late Western
District. — Jer. V. Rensselaer 5 March, 1800."
Seven Years* War
251
A LIST OF INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
[March/ April! 761]
List of the Names of the Indians who Accompanied the Gen-
eral to Montreal, and to whom Silver Medals have been delivered.
Mohawks
Sotsihowane
Taguayanont
Tyoragara
Jehanoghsonkogsitha
Carughyazigoa
Nokareghso
Tesonaronny
Tecanaghguaghse
Teyeyaghse
Canodadiro
Seth
Canadaraher
Tsiiwaye
Sose
Anoghreande
Canadagaye
Sanagaris
Tekaroros
Canoghsaronwe
Onyhaweghte
Joseph
Tayonguario
Anughsakandiake
Fhighresa
Canaghsadiro
Canadiorha
Fhaondariaco
Sakoyenderese
Tekahowaghse
Anoghsokte
Quaghyaco
Aruntes
Tayorheasere
Canadohare
Aquilaighse
Tehanerowanohaddy
Raheyos
Canadaighse
Ondaraghniro
Tekayendanhare
Kaghwanho
Nadohonagaraa
Yononandonyo
Soghradisse
Sakodyoughquisax
Tehanoyoughqua
Tehodinaye
Kaghswoughdioony
Arosa, alias Silver heels
Tsyadase
Adundais
Belt's Nephew N°. 1
N«. 2
Tetsiniyaghko
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
252
Sir William Johnson Papers
Otkoghraro
Otsdoghrodo
Onughrageghte
Otrewaghty
Caneiya
Sawanagarady
Seskye
Tehodoghwenzyokoghto
Canajoharees
Oneahario
Tekarihogo
Owadoqueani
T'hayayake
Teyoghsaghrogo
Johannes
Canundaghkirha
Tehonaghrio
Onhaghdoro
Askodax
Sanughsise
Tehanoghrackhas
Soheandese
Tekaghnawadeghko
Takeghsado
Tehaneyorea
Tehowakaghnerady
Carondodea
Sarahowane
Caroughyonko
Sotkanaghdy
Sarahowane
Caraghkundy
Kaghnyoghkandas
T'hayendanega
Nicolasa
Carondodea
Tajolsyaronsere
Tyorhadaghrio
Othaharaqueaa
Sakoderioughtha
Tiyonquarony
Canonawandageara
Niquad-diha
Orunghyagareghre
Oghwisdadere
Kaghnitzha
Tewahowagarahe
Kaghnearase
Canoony
Wadoriadeghdo
Oneidas.
Tyorhadaghrio
Oghsidago
Koweahe
Canaghsadirho
Tekahoweasere
Seghskyeghte
Seghsenowack.
T'haosaquat'ho
Teyoneghserise
Skandyoughquat'he
Onderihokde
Seven Years War
253
Tuscaroros.
Onoghsaweghde
Otsineghdara
Onowarandio
Cayenquaradennyo
Taroughyoughda
Atkaniyatha.
Aughguagos
Teyakodereghsere
Canakaraher
Taquayanont
Tharaghkoros
Caroughsiyage
Takatsyot
Onondagos
Rozinoughyatha
Tekakedorea
Oghwenzyowano
Aaghrogo
Niyadatsiwak
Caristowano
Kayoskodea
Kanahokeayat
Tekahonwaghse
Keckhoa
Canatsyahoha
Kindarundye
Tsyotquaghdy
Koskhahho
T'harighwandos
Caneiya
Teyohaqueande
Tekyaneda
T'hoghnyadega
Tekawisogo
Kaneahacke
Kawissoko
Tanondoris
Senecas
Kanecas
Kanayesty
Sanoughsis
Cayougas
Skanarady's
Nephew N°. 1
N°. 2
Mohickans
Paghkenaont
Monamauckh
Mughaghkehandy
Tsiksakan
Maquamopogh
Madoghk
Kose
Aneweemot
Oscawaghkamen
Mahose
Tankalkel
Naghkaweemet
Eaidon
254
Sir William Johnson Papers
Knamhickan
Wosaneck
Songose
Aughquisasne N°. 1
N°. 2
N°. 3
N°. 4
No. 5
N°. 6
No. 7
No. 8
N°. 9
N°. 10
Susquehanna's
Tyorheasere
Tawine
Takaghragearat.
Mohawks . .
Canajohary
Oneidas . . ,
Tuscaro . . .
Onondagos
Senecas . .
Cayougas .
Mohikans . .
Oquisasne
Susquehas
Aughquage
62
41
10
6
23
3
2
16
10
3
6
182
ENDORSED
List of the Names of the
Indians who Accompanied
the General to Montreal &
to whom Silver Medals have
been delivered. —
Sent to Sir Wm. Johnson, with the
General's Letter of the 1 7th April 1 761 .
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CERTIFICATE USED BY JOHNSON IN PRESENTING
MEDALS TO INDIANS
From New York Historical Society
Seven Years' War 255
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, SlK April 1761.
Sir
I beg leave to trouble You with the postscript of a Letter I
have lately received from Mr. Denny late Governor of Pensyl-
vania,2 bearing date at London the 19th. January 1761 ; And is
as follows. —
"I hope Sir Wm. Johnson has Discharged a Debt of his Deputy's
Captain Croghan, Amounting to near £ 200-Currency, And paid
the money to Mr. Dunlap of Philadelphia, Who has the Vouchers,
and my Letter of Attorney to receive it. The Case was this ; Goods
were brought by that Gentleman to give the Cherokees, over and
Above what the Province Sent, with the Approbation of the then
Colonel Stanwix : At Easton he was Arested with a wicked Design
to break up the Conference. I was his bail & obliged to pay the
money." —
As I hear that Goods are much wanted at the Detroit, I would
recommend it to You to Send Such Quantities as You Shall think
necessary to Supply those Indians with, untill the method I
proposed in My former to furnish them, can take place.
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Baronet.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 William Denny, governor of Pennsylvania, 1756-1759.
256 Sir William Johnson Papers
ORDER FOR MILITARY SUPPLIES
Contemporary Copy1
Head Quarters at New York, 20 April 1761.
You are hereby Ordered & directed to deliver or Cause to be
delivered to Sir Wm. Johnson, Bar1, or whom he shall Appoint to
receive the same, out of His Majesty's Stores; the Ammunition &
Store as under, for the Use of the Indians, Viz1.
Corn'd powder in Quarter Barrells Twenty.
Muskett Shott C.W« Ten.
Carbine Flints Two Thousand.
Observing to take a proper Receipt for the Same; And for so
doing, this shall be Your Sufficient Authority. —
Jeff: Amherst
Copy
To the Storekeeper of His Majesty's
Ord'nance at Albany.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
/J. /_>. o.
Albany 23d. April 1761 —
Sir/
My Brother3 who has spent the winter with me and is now going
home, will have the honour to deliver this to You. — in answer to
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
3 Warren Johnson. His diary covering the period from June 29, 1 760,
when he left England, until his return to England in May 1 761, is in the
New York State Library. He journeyed from Schenectady to Albany
April 22, and sailed for Bristol May 9, arriving in Devonshire, May 27.
The diary contains many interesting observations and descriptions of his
experiences in America.
Seven Years' War 257
yours of the 8th. Curr'.1 concerning what Mr. Denny wrote your
Excellency, I can only say that I know nothing of the affair,
there never has been any application made to me for the money,
neither do I see how there could with any propriety, as I told Mr.
Croghan when sent that way, I would not advance any money on
the Crowns Ace", for Service done that way, Judgeing that any
expence of that kind, would be paid by ye. Officer commanding
the Westeren Army, or by the Southeren Governments, besides as
the Cherokees were out of my district, it could not be supposed I
would advance any money of the Crowns on that account, unless
by an Order from the Commander in cheif. I expect Mr. Croghan
here soon, when I will learn from him how that affair is. —
I have yesterday received a letter from Lieu1. Claus dated at
Montreal the 9th. Ins1.,2 whereby he acquaints me that the Indians
there are a good deal surprised and concerned at not being
allowed to come to trade to Albany, where they say they can have
goods much cheaper than at Montreal, besides as all matters
between us, and them were amicably adjusted last September,
when, they were told and promised that the road of peace &
commerce should be free and open for them, they now think
it hard to be debarred that liberty. I am of opinion Sir that as
long as they continue to behave well and keep up to their en-
gagements, it will be right to allow them a Free open trade, as I
may expect an application from them concerning this affair,
I shall be glad to know your pleasure thereon, so as to be able to
answer them properly. —
I am certain the Indians at, and about Detroit must be in
great want of Cloathing amunition &ca., and as sure, that supply-
ing them at as reasonable a rate as the Traders can afford, will
be one of the most effectual methods can be taken, of attaching
them to his Majestys Interest, and makeing them usefull if
required. I have given passes to some Traders for that place,
and will agreable to your Excellencys recommendation give as
1 Ante p. 255.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:375-77.
258 Sir William Johnson Papers
many more as may be requisite, so that Goods may be tollerably
cheap, & plenty. — ^
I have the honour to be with
the most perfect esteem
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient &
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 29th. of April 1761 —
Sir
Since I did myself the honour of writeing You by My Brother,
I received yours of the 1 7th. Cur1.2 also the meddalls for such
Indians as accompanied You to Canada, which shall be equally
distributed among them on their return from hunting, and the
reason why they are given to them. I have likewise got the Gold
Meddall you were pleased to Send me, for which I am much
oblidged to You. Your Excellencys favourable opinion of my
conduct towards them, gives me the highest Satisfaction. You may
be assured Sir, that as long as I have any charge of them, or their
Affairs, I shall endeavour to discharge that trust with all the
uprightness & good management in my power, for his Majestys
Interest and my own Credit. —
Silver Heels, and the few Indians who accompany him, were
also with You to Montreal, they shall have their Meddals if they
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:378-79.
Seven Years' War 259
come back, should they not return, I will then give them to their
Familys.
I have the honour to be with the
greatest respect, Your Excell-
encys most Obedient, &
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst —
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Castle Cumberland May Ist 1761
Sir
I come now to Answer yours of the 26th. March2 & 9th. of
April.3 part of one of them I must say I am at a loss to answer,
however shall presently say something on that Head. — Your
haveing permission to purchase, I believe was in a great measure
owing to the favourable mention made of You last Winter in
some of my Letters to General Amherst ; I heartily Wish You may
succeed therein, in one of my last I let you know that I would
assist You in compleating ye. purchase of ye. Company, with what
you could get for yr. Lieutenancy, which You imagined would be
abl. £300 Str§. I understand Companys are sold for no more
than a thousand, or Eleven Hundred Pounds at most, I wrote
to Major Rutherfurd4 last Week, and desired to know his
intentions concerning the disposal of his Company, if inclined
to sell & would let me know the Terms, I would settle the Affair
1 In Canadian Archives, Miscellaneous Papers, 1714-1790, Claus
Papers, W. Vol. 1 4. The draft of this letter which differs much from the
letter actually sent Claus, is printed in Johnson Papers, 3:381-2.
2 Johnson Papers, 3:371.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:375.
4 Major Walter Rutherford. See Rutherford to Johnson, May 12, 1 761 ,
post p. 265.
260 Sir William Johnson Papers
for You with him, When I have his Answer will let You know it;
In the mean time I think yu. should make use of Your, & your
Freinds Interest to bring it to a hearing. — If You find much
difficulty in transporting ye. horse You bought for me hither, You
had better dispose of him, as I would not choose to give You
or myself much trouble about Him altho I want him much to
match the one I have.
I have answered Your Draft on me to Kennedy & Lisle.
When You draw, I should know whether it is on Accu., of Indian
Service or yr. own Ace"., that I might charge it accordingly.
I am surprised General Gage will not suffer the Caghnawageys
& other Inds. inhabiting yl. Country, included in the peace made
with them last Autumn, to come to, and trade at Albany or else-
where, it being one of the Articles settled at the great Meeting at
Cagnawagey last Year in presence of the Six Nations &ca. I think
keeping them so much under, and debarring them the liberty of a
Free Trade is far from being good Policy, whatever others may
think [it] who know little ab*. it. I have wrote General Amherst
[about it] thereon, when I have his ansr. shall be able to say more
about it. —
Your proposal of Marriage1 surprises me a great deal, haveing
never had the least hint of the kind dropped or mentioned to me
before, so that it realy seems to me verry extraordinary &
precipitate: besides, it is giveing me a bad impression of my
Daughters regard for, & Duty towards me, whom I think she
should consult in a case which concerns her happiness so nearly,
it shall ever be a maxim with me to give a Child as great liberty in
the choice of a Wife, or Husband as is consistent with the Duty
they owe to a Parent, in whose power it2 is to make them happy
with their own industry, if they exceed that indulgence, and will
1 See Claus to Johnson, March 26, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:371-72.
2 This sentence from here on makes little sense. In the draft at this point
were the following: "Certainly should be to have a voice, & indeed a
decisive one, as from them must generally come, what will make them easy
in the world with their own industry afterwards." Apparently Johnson
thought better of this, and the sentence above is the result.
Seven Years' War 261
act independant (which seems now to be the case with my
Daughter, as you represent it) then I think all expectations, as
well as Parental regard are forfeited. — I have always had a
regard for You, and beleive you are sensible of it, from the notice
I have on all occassions taken of You. that alone, should have
weighed with You, or any Man of Honour, and be a bar to
prevent the carrying on any private intrigue in my Family,
had you moved the Affair to me, before you had made your
inclinations known to some others, as I find, is the case, it would
have been more in Character of a Gentleman & Freind. I have
not as yet spoke to her on the Subject, but intend it as soon as
I go to the House, & when I find out her Sentiments or inclination
shall be better able to say more to you on the affair in the mean-
time, am
Sir
Yours as usual
WM. Johnson
Lieut. Daniel Claus-
P. S. after finishing ye. foregoing letter, I received yours of
the 21st. Ul10.1 acknowledgeing ye. receipt of mine by Captn.
Lotteradge, to whom remember me. as to your throwing yr. Self,
or depending on my advice, I am oblidged to You for your good
opinion of me, (which be assured I should never deceive you in)
but at the same time, would have You Judge for Yourself, least,
hereafter things turning out contrary to yr. expectation I might
be thought blame worthy, all I can say with regard to my appoint-
ment of You, that is a mere deed of my own, and may perhaps soon
be thought unnecessary, wherefore would not have you depend
much thereupon, I wrote my Sentiments at ye. time to General
Amherst, concerning it, but he gave me no answer, which makes
me doubt his approbation of it. However be that as it will, I shall
endeavour all in my power to make good any engagements with
You. it is more probable you may be ordered to Join yr.
Regiment if Captn. than as you are now. and I much doubt it
1 Johnson Papers, 3:379.
262 Sir William Johnson Papers
being in my power in such case, to persuade the General to let
you act in the Station you now do, let my inclination be never so
sanguine to serve You. for I am sorry to say it, that the General
is too indifferent about, & severe to all Indians, which I greatly
dread, will prove of verry bad consequence to his Majestys Indian
Interest now so well established, as well as to his Subjects inhabit-
ing the out Parts of the severall Governments. I shall be glad
Jacob Miller comes home to his Freinds, as they are so desireous of
it.1 —
INDORSED:
Sr Wm Johnsons Letter
May 1 * 1 767 —
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
A. Df.2
Montreal Ist. May 1 761 —
Sir
I was honoured with yours of the 7th. Ult°. and accordingly
have been with Gen1. Gage abl. the Pany3 he told [me] that by the
Caracter he had of him no Body would be able to keep him as he
would run away even if brought d[own] to the Sea coast,
however if the Mohawks he belonged to would come and fetch
him from here he would deliver him up. I have spoke to the old
French Man abl. giving up the Boy or Girl in Exchange of him
but he ex[cuses] himself of not being able of getting any in Town
a [nd] offers to deliver his Pany up when ordered by the Gen1. wch.
indicates of his having some hopes of keeping [him.] I think
Gen1. Gage has lost a good deal of his former Lenity since he has
this Governm1.
1 See Johnson to Claus, March 23, 1761, ante p. 247.
2 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1, 1716-1777, M. 104,
p. 46. The actual letter sent, dated May 2, printed in Johnson Papers,
3:382, differs in many respects from the draft.
3 Pani, a term regularly used to denote an Indian slave.
Seven Years' War 263
I have been this Week at Caghnawago and was pes [tered] with
nothing but complaints agsl. the 44th. Reg1. Officers as well as
Soldiers however more so of the latter. I have presented them to
Gen1. Gage in writing and he was surprised to hear it telling me
he had given repeated Orders to Majr. Beckwith to keep up a
good Understanding between the Indns. & his Reg1, also to
enquire strictly into the Affair Mr. Pennington had with the Indns.
but they told me that all the Satisfaction they got was the Liberty
of bringing away their Arms Packs & Canoes wch. they were
obliged to leave in order to avoid more Strokes, The Gen1, tells
me that he was informed of the Indns. having exaggerated their
Story, but Mr. Pennington's own Confession in a Letter1
he wrote to Monsr. Du Musseaux by the same Indns. proves 111
Treatment & Presumption enough, the whole is Majr. Beckwith
dont countenance the Indns. in the least by several Proofs I have
myself. The night before I went to Caghnaw?. the Indns. were so
Alarmed at some strange Behaviour of his that they were the
whole night awake & on their Guard. I have given a hint of it
to Gen1. Gage and observed that tho the Indns. were now in fear
of us & perhaps might put up with some 111 Treatments yet if
that Fear was pushed too far it might have such Consequences as
to bring a Gen1. Indn. War upon us, all Nations being allready
jealous of our Success & would easily engage in it. he told me he
would write agn. to Majr. Beckwith. He granted them some
Amunition & have procured them some Shot wch. will please
them, they being scarce of Amunn. & Provn. They begged of
me to stay with them for some Days as then they could be at
Ease wch. I intend to ask the Gen1, for. [// you] should acquaint
Gen1. Amherst of the above I Would be glad I endeavour all in my
Power to keep them [out of] as easy as possible by laying the
Blame upon the Irregularity of the Army & tell them that they
1 At this point on the margin of the draft is written: "Verbal Translate
wch. I have hereby anexed." See Johnson Calendar, p. 112, "Lieut. George
Pennington, of the 44th, to M. Du Musseaux, recounting his exploit in
clubbing Indians." This letter, inclosed with that of Claus, was lost
in the fire.
264 Sir William Johnson Papers
would soon encamp near the Town wch. however I am not sure of
tho there is such a Re [ ]
I acknowledge with the highest Gratitude the great Mark of
your Favour [towards me] in giving me leave to draw upon you
towards the Purchase [/ mentioned] , but as by the Letters of the
26th. March & 21st. Apr1, your Advice might make some Altera-
tion I have not divulged it to Mankind [nor ever shall] until I
have Your Answer. Mr. Ogilvie has a few [pra]yer Books in a
Chest at Isaac Gallices1 the Key of wch. he has [in Albany] not
here. [/ shall correct] The Indn. Boock Mr. Welles is to bring
shall be corrected with all Speed.
I am Sorry of having not had the Pleasure of seeing Captn.
Warren.2
Recomending myself to Your future Patronage I am with the
highest Respect & Complimls. to the Family. —
If I could have the least Trace of Captn. Stud*.3 Debts here
I perhaps could find them out It seems to me he had to do with
the Merch5. at Caneghsadagey if I had the Least Proof I would
attack him it
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy*
New York, IIth- May 1761.—
Sir
I have Your Letter of the 29th. April,5 Acknowledging the
Receipt of the medals for the Indians. —
I hear Silverheels has been Guilty of a misdemeanor in Carolina,
having almost Murdered two Tame Indians, but \J. Col°. Grant
was in hopes they would Recover. —
1 Isaac Colliers, in the letter, Johnson Papers, 3:384.
2 Warren Johnson.
3 Capt. Benjamin Stoddert, who was killed at Battle of Lake George.
4 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
5 Ante p. 258.
Seven Years' War 265
No Ship is Arrived from England, So that I have Nothing
new to Send You : The packet is Expected daily Which probably
will bring Something.
I am, with great Truth,
Sir,
&ca.
SR. Willm. Johnson Bar*.
FROM WALTER RUTHERFURD
New York 12* May 1761
Sir
I take the first Opportunity to acknowledge the Receipt
of your Favor, of 25th. April, and thank you for your Civility to;
Mr. Stirling.
Lieu1. Duncan spoke to me on the Subject you mention, which
I communicated to the Generale who thinks that as a great Ad-
vantage will arise to the public, by the Carrying-Place being
settled, that we can have no doubt at least to settle it as far as
the French did, by having Forts at each end, and such a Settlement
as . . . the Shebear,2 had for necessaries and Refreshments, for
that we cannot be supposed to be on a worse Footing there than
the French were. We don't intend to go further Lengths than this I
till we are authorised from England, and then hope to have your
Assistance in making the Intentions of the Government effectual.
My Company was disposed of the 18th. April, but as Cap'.
Wllyamore's is still to be sold, Mr. Claus I hope will have that
Opportunity.
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Chabert ( Joncaire) .
266 Sir William Johnson Papers
Doctr. Shuchburgh1 has been this fortnight confined with a
Boil on his Thigh. I am with esteem
S'.
Your most obl. hum. Ser1.
Walr. Rutherfurd
INDORSED:2
New York 12* May 1761 —
Major Rutherfurds Letter
concerning Niagra Portage
FROM RICHARD PETERS
New York 18th May 1761
Sir
I thank you heartily for your kind answer4 to mine of the 1 2th.5
Febry. Mr Hamilton0 has laid before General Amherst a large
Detail of the Connecticut Peoples Proceedings, and desired
his Excellency s Interposition, so far as to prevent any fresh
disturbances with Indians. The Issue it is put upon with ye
General is, that the Delawares were placed by the Six Nations
on the Susquahanna (I think in 1 744 or 1 745) and Teedyuscung
at the Treaty of Easton in 1 757, just before the Peace Belts were
exchanged, did demand that the Lands at Wyomink & parts
adjacent shoud be granted to him & his Delawares for their
Habitation, and houses be built for them there, which was
1 Dr. Richard Shuckburgh.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In Maryland Historical Society, Baltimore, Maryland ; Gilmore
papers. The letter is printed in the Maryland Historical Magazine, 4:349-
50, where it is erroneously given as having been addressed to Governor
Horatio Sharpe of Maryland.
4 March 4, 1761, ante p. 231.
5 Ante p. 213.
6 James Hamilton, Governor of Pennsylvania.
Seven Years' War 267
acceded to, so far as coud be done for Lands not purchased of
the Indians; and in consequence of this Stipulation, to wch. Mr.
Croghan your Deputy Agent was consenting together with the
Six Nations then present, Houses have been built for these
Indians at Wyomink. Now for them to be turned out of their
peaceable Possession so solemnly stipulated as well in his
Majesties name as in that of the Six Nations is such a Breach of
Faith as deserves the highest resentment in them, & most certainly,
they will shew it, if the attempt to settle those lands be carried into
Execution. The Governor thinking yl. General Amherst might
want to be informed of some perticulars that were mentioned in the
Governors Letter gave me the charge of it ; and I have endeavored
to set before the General the Stipulations made with the Susqua-
hanna Indians and the Consequences of a Breach of them, and he
has wrote to ye Governor of Connecticut on the head ; wch with any
other people woud have a proper Effect, but wlh these I imagine
that bare writing will not be regarded. Govr Fitch will I suppose
disown on the part of the Governm1 any Grants or Countenance to
these Land Companies, & say that it is a Project of their own,
& they must be dealt with according to the Laws of the Province
into which they intrude themselves. This is what he has said to
Governor Hamilton and It may be truth. But what is the Conse-
quence? Some Indians espouse that cause some even live among
them — others are angry and threaten to do them mischief. The
Civil Power, by a Sheriff and the Posse of the County we will
suppose, endeavours to apprehend them as Trepassers & breakers
of the Peace, (for so they are having no Grant from the Gov1
Council & Assembly of Connecticut) they resist, and, being
numerous, people are killed on both sides, and perhaps some
Indians yl are their friends & abettors fall in the Fray. Will
not this kindle fresh disturbances? At least until ye Indians are
properly acquainted with this matter & their minds known no
force can be used against them — and if in the mean time they
multiply umbrage will be given to the Indians & so it may prove
very bad in this Way. It is a very bad affair and I shoud be
extremely obliged to you for a little advice. As to the Lands
268 Sir William Johnson Papers
it is an indifferent matter whether the Prop" of Pennsylvania or of
Connecticut have or have not the legal Property of them to the
rest of the Kings Subjects — but their not being purchased of
Indians & appropriated by the Six Nations to the Delawares
for an habitation at a Treaty where Peace was concluded between
His Majesty & the Indians; this, I say, makes it a national not
a provincial Cause & the Controversy is not between Subject &
Subject but between Indian & Englishman.
Teedyuscung told Governor Hamilton that he had not received
a second letter from you, and until he does I imagine, by this Habit
of Drunkenness that he is got into, that he will neglect this as he
does most other things.
Mr Shuckburg will I hope relieve some of the distress that you
must be in for want of Secretaries & other Assistants. I beg pardon
for this trouble, but my mind is so much disturbed least ye Indians
fall again into hostilities that I could not rest till I had opened
my Griefs to a Gentleman who has the clearest understanding &
the most in his power in all matters relating to Indians. I am with
a very sincere regard o-
Your most obedient and
most humble Servant
Richard Peters
Sir William Johnson
TO DANIEL CLAUS
A. L. S.1
Castle Cumberland May 20ih. 1761
Sir/
Yours of the 2d. Ins1.2 I this day received, with Coppy of
Mr. Penningtons odd Letter3 to Monsr. Musseaux. I would be
1 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1 , M. 1 04, p. 48.
2 Johnson Papers, 3:382-84.
3 Pennington to Du Musseaux, March 27, 1 761 , see Johnson Calendar,
p. 112.
Seven Years' War 269
glad to have the Original letter, as it may be of some use one time
or other. I am greatly surprised at Mr. Gages makeing so much ado,
about the Panny1 Prisoner, what is it to him if he runs away
again from the Indians; why does he not order him to be delivered
to You, or any good Man who would take charge of him hither?
his trifleing so, does not look well. I am resolved to have the fellow
at any rate, and will speak to Gen'. Amherst about it when he
arrives at Albany which is to be in two or three days, from thence,
he is to visit Crown Point as is Said. I had a letter this Day from
Rutherford, in answer to mine, He tells me he Sold his Commis-
sion the 18th. of the last Month, so that, that affair is over^
I wish Mr. Haldimand may be as much yr. freind, as you im-'
agine. —
it gives me no small concern to hear ye. many greiviances com-
plained of by the Inds. of Canada; which You say they receive
cheifly from the Officers & Men of the 44th. Regiment, quartered
in the[/r] Neighbourhood of the Caghnawageys. this mali terat-
ment shewn them by our Troops & without provocation, Contrary
to the assurances given them last Year at the Treaty held at
Caghnawagey,2 will I fear be found in ye. end to be verry bad
policy, whatever the Gentlemen of the Army, & those at the head
of Affairs here may think of it. You will doubtless endeavour
to quiet their minds as much as you can, and tell them there must
be allowances made for little riots, or 111 behaviour now & then
of some Soldiers, who by taking too much liquor, may have been
led to commit Irregularities, and assure them His Majesty intends
them nor no Nation of Indians any Harm, as long as they behave
properly, on the contrary, gives the greatest assurences of his
protecting all such Nations, as have any right to expect it.
which they of Canada, as well as others (from the engagements
they entered into with me last Year,) have.; — Your giveing or
getting them Amunition was verry right, as without that they
cannot hunt, or subsist well, besides keeping it from them would
1 Pani, a term regularly used to denote an Indian slave.
2 Caghnawaga, Sault St. Louis, south of St. Lawrence River, near
Montreal.
270 Sir William Johnson Papers
doubtless make them, & all other Nations harbour bad thoughts
of us. — which I am verry sorry is already the case with almost all
the Nations we have any knowledge of. This makes my manage-
ment of them, & their affairs so verry difficult, & disagreable, that
I heartily wish I was clear of it. \
Major Ruthorford, Duncan (who I hear has Sold out,) Symes,
Coventry, Bradstreet & many more have got leave from the Gener-
al1 to establish Settlements on the Niagra Carrying place & about
there, for wh. end they have purchased many Oxen, horses. Carts
Waggons &ca. and are now Sending them up to begin the Settle-
ment. I gave Mr. Rutherford & Duncan my Opinion thereon,
and shall to the General when I see him at Alb?, if they persist
in their Scheme, I am certain it will confirm all the Nations in the
opinion they long have had, of our design of rooting them out of
their Country. wl. the consequence will be, time only will shew,
but I must own I dread it/ — I will endeavour when I have a
little leasure to look over Stoddarts Books, & Send You an Ace"/
of the Debts due to him,2 if to be found.
I am
Sir
Your verry Humble Serv*.
WM. Johnson
My Compliments to Mr. Ogilvie
& Spouse, & to all enquireing Freinds —
1 See Amherst to Johnson, May 7, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:387.
2 Affairs of Benjamin Stoddert, killed at Lake George, which Claus
was asked to settle.
Seven Years' War 271
FROM PHINEAS LYMAN
Contemporary Copy1
Sufield2 22 May. 1761
Sir
There has been kept up in the Government of Connecticut for
Several Years past a School,3 under the direction of the Revd.
Eleazr. Wheelock (a very Worthy honest Gentn.) for Instructing
of Indian Children in Such Knowledge as Shall best qualify them
for Service which has Obtained Such Repute as to induce ye.
HonIe. Society In Scotland for Propagating christian Knowledge,
to allow to that School a Sum of Money for the Education of a
Number of Young Indians of the Six Nations and the Barer
hereof Now Waits on You for Your Advice and Assistance to
Send down to the Care of sd. Mr. Wheelock Six Young Men of
those Nations. I assure You he is a Gentleman who keeps good
order in his School and is as likely a Man to educate them Well,
and to fit them for Service as any Man amongst us, So that I doubt
not but yf. You Will be Willing to point out Such Young men as
will be most likely to receive Benefit thereby. I am with great
Respect
Your Most Obed1.
Humle. Serv*.
P. Lyman
Genl. Johnson
addressed :
To the Honourable
Sir Willm. Johnson Bar
Mount Johnson
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 Connecticut.
3 Moor's Charity School, established at Lebanon, Connecticut, in 1 754.
This name was dropped in 1 758, and the school was moved to Hanover,
New Hampshire, in 1 769. Wheelock's Narrative gives the name as
"Indian Charity School."
272 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:
Copy of Gen1. Lyman's
Letter to Gen1. Johnson
May 1761
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.1
Lebanon 27. May. 1761 .
Sir vv
The Honle. Comissrs. of the Society in Scotland for Propagat-
ing christian Knowledge have granted a Support for three Boys
of the Six Nations at the School under my Care in order to their
being fitted as Soon as may be for Interpreters, or other publick
usefulness among their Own Nations, and the Disposition to Lib-
erility toward Such a design, appearing in a Number is Such, as
that I have determined to add three More at My own Risque,
the Barer who is one of my Pupils waits upon Your Honr. to be
advised and assisted in the Affair. The chusing [of ]2
Such as are Suitable for the Purpose and most likely to Answer
the End purpos'd, as also ye. using proper Endeavours to [induce]
Move them to Accept the Offer of An Education now made
them, is principally referred to you, as being best able to Judge
of the Persons, and Influence them in the Affair.
Your Hon1- [will please to] if you think fit may let them
know y*. the Government of this School Will be easie [Govern-
ment] to them if they Will be Orderly, virtuous and industrious
in improving their Time [and Opportunity & virtues] ; Other-
wise there will be no easie living for them here.
If they behave well, and My Life Shall be continued there
is the greatest Probability they may Continue here 'till the Design
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Seven Years' War 273
of their coming be Ottained. but if they Shall behave ill they
Will be sent Home to make way for Others Who will prize and
improve such a Priviledge. or if I should be removed by Death
or otherwise disabled to act in the Affair the Consequence may
be [this] that three Will be chosen out of the Six to be the Sub-
jects of the Society's Benefit and the Other three Sent Home,
unless as is most probable Other Provision shall be made for
them. I shall be glad to be advised as to their Diet, Lodging
and any thing you may think proper to preserve their Health. —
And that the Matter may be accomplished and the Barer return,
With them, to his Studies as soon as may be. — I am With Much
Esteem and Respect
Your Honours Most Obed*. & Most Hum,e
Serv1.
Eleazar Wheelock
The Honle. SR. WM. Johnson Baron.
P.S. Mr. Occom1 an Ordained Indian Minister of Long Island
(by the Motion of Mr. KirkPaterick Who Attended Your Honr.
in the Last campaign in the Capacity of Chaplin to Coll Scuyler's2
Regimt.) Was going on a Mission to the Oneidas supported by
Some Gentlemen in N York Governm1 Whom the Young Indian
from this School Was to Accompany in his Journey to You Was
taken Sick [/ hear] on his Way before he left [Long] the Island
for Which Reason the Journey of this Young Man is a little
delayd till he can hear further from Mr. Occom and of the Issue
of his Sickness. I tho't proper nevertheless to Send this With
Gen1. Lyman's3 to the Care of Mr. Forscey of Albany, to be
carefully transmitted to You that You might have Intilligence
of the Affair and proceed in it as you shall see fit preparitory to
his coming [as You] which you may expect in a very Short Time
1 Samson Occum, a Mohegan Indian missionary to the Indians.
2 Colonel Philip John Schuyler.
3 Lyman to Johnson, May 22, 1 761, ante p. 271.
274 Sir William Johnson Papers
if Sickness or Death dont prevent, or the Expence & Trouble
of the Attempt be not prevented by advice from your Honour
yl. ye. Design is impracticable or very doubtful of which Advice
I pray Your Honour Will be so good as to send me Word if
that be the Case.
I am yr. Honr. as before.
Eleazar Wheelock
indorsed :
Letter to Gen1. Johnson
to send Boys Jun. 1, 1761.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany 30th. May 1761.—
Sir
It is but Since My Arrival here that I had the pleasure of
receiving Your Letter of the 21st. of March,2 Which, I suppose
has followed me from New York to this place. —
The Wise Measures You have taken, for getting the best
Intelligence of the Different Indian Nations, I think, cannot fail
of Success. —
I Have Sent to Lake Erie to prepare and Build two Armed
Vessells for Exploring the upper Lakes, and to See the Situation
of the Posts, and the State of the Country near the Lakes. —
I am hopefull that time will permit me to take a Tour that way;
and I Shall Desire the favor of Your Company that Everything
in regard to the Indians May be Put upon the best footing;/ And
I shall try to Convince them by all Means that are in my Power,
that they are; and must be more happy under the protection of
the King, than When the French were masters of the Country. —
I am much obliged to You for Your Opinion, WTiich You
have given me of the State of Indian Affairs; You are the best
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 243.
Seven Years' War 275
Judge of What will best Conduce to Secure them in our friend-
ship; and I shall always be glad to have Your Sentiments
thereon. —
I think Lieut. Claus Should have the Same Allowance As
Your other Deputies; from Your Recommendation of him, I
am Convinced he is the properest person for the Care of the
Indians in Canada; and it is for the good of His Majesty's Service
that he Should Continue there. —
I remember perfectly well, What You mentioned of Kass
the German. —
I Shall Order Colonel Williamson to Deliver You Three
Hundred Weight of Powder on Your Sending for it If I knew,
Who to deliver it to here for You, it Should be immediately
done. —
The time I Shall take the Tour on the Lakes, will depend on
My being able to finish the Business I have here, of Which I
Shall give You Notice; and if You think of any thing that is
necessary to be done, or taken, for the Indians in the Upper Coun-
trys, I Should be glad You would Inform me thereof. —
Cap1. D'Arcy will Deliver You this. —
I am, with great Truth, and Regard,
Sir, &ca
Sir Wm. Johnson, Baronet.
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
N. Y. June 2»d 1761.
Dear Sir
I have the honor of your congratulation of the 12th of last
month on my recovery, & your kind declarations of Friendship.
The Day that the Members of Albany left this place they
told me that it was thought the Sheriff of Albany could not live
1 Printed in Collections of the NeTv York Historical Society, 1 876,
The Colden Papers, p. 87.
276 .Sir William Johnson Papers
many days & hoped that I would take their recommendation in
case of his death for another to succeed him, which I promised
I would & they have recommended Guisbert Merselius.1 Yester-
day morning at the same time I received their recommendation
G1 Moncton came to me & in G1 Amhersts name & his own
recommended Hermanus Schuyler.2 This is so powerful a recom-
mendation that I cannot withstand Only I have taken the Liberty
of informing G1 Amherst of my previous promise, but in case he
continues to think that the appointment of Schuyler is more for
his Majesties Service I shall think myself absolved from my
promise to the Albany members. You may see the difficulties
I am under & that I often cannot serve those I am most desirous
of serving.
It is really true that by my indisposition the affair of the Land
you mention had entirely escaped my memory.
I had several times discoursed with Mr. Banyar on that subject
& have again lately. We were both of opinion that it would be
attended with perhaps insuperable difficulties in Council otherwise
than by some compromise with the Gentlemen who had obtained
a License to purchase the same Lands. Mr. Banyar tells me
that he had wrote largely on that subject for which reason I think
it needless to add more.
Every disappointment in serving you gives me pain, but I
hope to have the pleasure of shewing with what high esteem &
respect I am Sir
By the Ship Prince George Captn Finglass.
1 Guysbert Marselis, skipper of a Hudson River sloop.
2 His appointment as sheriff announced, Johnson Papers, 3:207.
Seven Years' War 277
TO DANIEL CLAUS
A. L.1
Albany June 2d. 1761
I came yesterday to town to wait on the General haveing Sent
Captn. Darcy for me, on waiting of him, he told me he would
be glad of my Company to Detroit Niagra &ca., when I should
have opertunity of Seeing and Settleing Matters on a good foot-
ing with all the Nations liveing that way. We will not be ready
to Sett of for some time, as the provincials come in verry slow —
the General does not let this [be] known to any Body yet, so
that you need not Say any thing about it. He does not choose
You should leave where You are, as he thinks it would not be
for his Majestys Service. So that You must content yourself
wt}l. yr. present scituation awhile. You may when I am gone
acquaint the Caghnawageys of my takeing that Tour. —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 7th. June 1761
Sir
Agreable to your Excellencys desire I have considered of,
and made out as *p inclosed, what will be necessary to take along
for the use of the Indians, or rather as presents to be given to
such Nations of the Westeren, and other Tribes as may prove
deserveing of it. the Sum, or amount will perhaps appear much
to yr. Excellency but let me assure You Sir, that takeing less
will be doing nothing.
You have also herewith the account of Pay due to the Officers
of my department, for which w*. a Ballance comeing to me of
1 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1, M. 104, p. 50.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. A copy is in Canadian
Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
278 Sir IVilliam Johnson Papers
about £300 Currcy., and a little to have in hand, to carry on
the Service, I should be glad to have a Warrant for a £ 1 000
Sterlg. so as to discharge them debts before I leave home, if Your
Excellency approves the former, I shall loose no time in ordering
the things to be bought and made ready.
I hope this will find Your Excellency perfectly recovered of
your late indisposition
as I am with the greatest Sincerity & respect
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, &
Most Humble Servant.
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
[7?] June^
1761
GOODS FOR INDIAN PRESENTS
A. D. S.1
Goods necessary as a Present, to be Given to the
Westeren Indians at the intended Meeting with them
40 peices of different colours Strowds £500. . — . . —
400 Rolls & peices of Gartering & Gimps .... 1 40 . . —
20 ps. of different kinds of Stocking Stuff. ... 180. . —
20 D°. of Blankets Sorted 240. . — ,
400 Ready made Shirts different Sorts & sizes . 1 80 . . — .
100 pound of Virmillion 70. .—
a parcel of Silver meddals & Gorgets &ca. for
Sachims &ca 1 00. .-
Looking Glasses 20. .—
White black & other colours small Beeds. ... 20. .—
Knives, Razors, Combs, & Scizars 30. .—
Brass Wire, Awl blades, needles & thread. ... 30. .—
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, June 7, 1761, ante p. 277.
Seven Years' War 279
Jews Harps, and Steels for Strikeing fire. ... 35.
50 laced Hatts 100.
30 ps. of ribbonds 30 .
Pipes & Tobacco, being an Article greatly
esteemed 60.
a parcel of common Rings, & Hawk bells 10.
Kettles of brass, & Tin 100.
Currency. £1845..—
there are many other Articles would be verry
necessary & acceptable to them, but did not choose
to insert them here, least it might be thought
too much, the above mentioned, next to Gun powder, lead &
Flints, and Arms will be most acceptable. —
Arms and Amunition will be expected by what ever Nation
enters into an Alliance with Us. —
WM. Johnson
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.1
Lebanon In Connecticut June 9, 1761 .
Sir.
The Barer David Fowler2 one of my Indian Schollars, in Com-
pany with the Revd Samson Occom Now Waits upon Your
Honour, pursuant to the Desire and by the Direction of the
[Honorable]3 Comissrs of the Hon,e Society in Scotland for
Propagating christian Knowledge, and asks Your Honours Direc-
tion and Assistance to procure Six likely Male Youth of the Six
Nations to be conducted hither to the School Under My Care for
an Education in such Parts of Learning as may render them Most
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 A Montauk Indian.
5 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
280 Sir William Johnson Papers
useful among their Tribes and perticularly to be fitted for In-
terpreters.
The Honle Comissrs have granted [a] Support for Three, the
Other Three I take at My own Risque.
They Must Expect to be Subject to the Government of the
School as English Youth in it are, and if they be Orderly &
Diligent they Will find it an Easy [one] government but if
otherwise they [Will not], they Must expect to be sent back
to Make Way for Others Who will prize and Improve [S — ]
the Previlidge.
I trust You have before Now Recd. the Letters from Gen1.
Lyman & Myself1 Which I sent forward Some Days ago. And
that You will approve and gladly promote the Design. Mr.
Occom Can give You a [more] full Account of the Affair.
I should be glad to have it Accomplished as soon as May be
that David Might return With them to his Studies. I am with
Much Respect
Your Honrs Most Obed1.
& most Humble Servant
Eleazar Wheelock
Genl. Johnson
[The Honle. Sr. Wm. Johnson Baron1.]
INDORSED :
Letter to Gen1. Johnson
by David Fowler June 9. 1 761 .
1 Ante pp. 271-72.
Seven Years'1 War 281
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Castle Cumberland June I Ilh. 1761
Sir
Since I wrote You from Albany ye. 2d. Ins1.,2 have received
yours of ye. 24th. Ult°.,3 by which I am glad to find, that part of
a former letter of yours, cleared up, so as remove the 111 impres-
sion it, (at the time I received it) made, as well as the uneasiness
it gave me since on different acctts. which I shall now think no
more of. — and only add this, that I would not have you make
any advances that way until your arrival here whenever it may
be. the General is not for Your Stirring from thence as You
will find by my last letter from Albany. —
I am verry glad to hear that there seems to be a better under-
standing of late between the Troops, & Inds., and that all
Jealousies are likely to subside. — Mr. Amherst told me he
wrote to Gage to see that the Indians are used as well as they
deserve, wh. I reckon has had some effect, and perhaps produced
that change of conduct towards them.
You are right in sending a Message by the few Ottawawaes
who are going home, & let them know wl. they, and all other
Nations are to expect from Us, as long as they behave well, &
friendly to All his Majestys Subjects.
*1 am sensible of the great effect Religion has on all Indians,
and think it should be encouraged as much as possible, as well
out of a christian Principle, as good Policy, but then it should
not be the Roman Catholick Religion for their Preists will always
infuse such principles into them, as must be prejudicial to the
English interest in spight of all threats or rewards, -r-
I have not as yet learned that our People were in possession
1 In Canadian Archives, Miscellaneous Papers, 1714-1790, Claus
Papers, W. Vol. 14.
2 Ante p. 277.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:393.
282 Sir William Johnson Papers
of Missillimackinack, however, they soon will I suppose. When
they are, and behave well to them Indians, I dare say they will
be well enough pleased with the change, for all People ever so
rude, know something of their own Interest. -^/
Mr. Roubauds Letter1 I have with Yours, but can make noth-
ing of it. whenever he writes me, I would have you open &
translate his letter, & Send me both.
The Acclt. of Captn. Lotteradge may easily be adjusted when
we are all together, give my Compliments to him & tell him I
expect he will not forget a good Dog he promised me.
Remember me to Messrs. Welles & Wade2 whom I congratu-
late on their safe, & early arrival with their Cargoe and wish
them a good sale for them, tell Welles I expect he will write me,
altho I doubt (unless it is soon) it's reaching me at Home, as I
believe I shall be obliged to take a long Tour this Summer. —
I shall be glad to have the horse Safe, as for the Vines, it is not
a time now to plant them. I shall be verry glad, if you would
this Summer collect a parcel of the best Garden Seeds of everry
kind for me, so that I may try them next Spring in my new
Garden, wh. is 2 Acres & near a half without a Root or Stump. —
if I was to remain at home this Summer, I should make con-
siderable improvements here.
I am busy clearing Land at Dennis Maddins also, where I
propose please God to build Mills for the use of ye upper part
of the Pattent. — I have but about 50 Familys Settled as yet,
but expect many more towards Fall. —
The Land, wh. you are told I am takeing up near to Conajo-
hare, lyes opposite the Castle, and got a Deed of Gift of it last
Fall from the Inds., who unanimously & Voluntarily Sent for
me, and at a full Meeting, made me a Present of it. were it now
not so far gone & on another footing, I should have no Objection
to yu. or Mr. Ogilvie being concerned, pray give my kind re-
1 Missing; see Johnson Papers, 3:395, footnote 1.
2 John Welles and Matthew Wade, traders who had gone to Montreal.
See Wells to Johnson, Johnson Calendar, p. 124. The partnership was
dissolved in November 1765, ibid., 129.
Seven Years' War 283
spects to him, & tell him his* Children are verry uneasy at his
absence from them. — *Ye. Mohawks
You forgot to inclose ye. Acc,ts. You mention.
As the Breed of Wild Geese are very plenty in Canada I
wish You would secure & Send me 4 Geese & 2 Ganders for
Breed, and send them by some safe Hand who will take Care
of them.
I had a letter this Day from Coll°. Van Derheyden,1 begging
to have a pass for Mr. Dirk Van Derheyden & Mr. Stringer,
who are at Montreal and want to trade among the Indians, if
there is no reason or objection can be made to it, I would have
You give, or get them a pass, altho I think all passes for Indian
Trade should come from Me, & Deputys, wh. is ye. only perquisite
I ever had, or indeed that I know I can have, altho my Commis-
sion intimates, as if there were severall kinds of perquisites &
advantages. I give all passes here for Indian Trade to Detroit,
&ca. wlh. General Amhersts knowledge, & consent, it should be
the Same there..
We have no news here of any moment so conclude
Yours as ever
WM. Johnson
Lieut. Daniel Claus —
indorsed :
Sr. Wm. Johnsons Letter
11*. June 1761.
David Van Der Heyden, of Albany.
\
284 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany, IIth. June 1761.
Sir,
I am to thank You for Your Letter of the 7th. Instant, Which
I had the favor of receiving on the 9th., Enclosing a List of
Goods,2 that You Judge Necessary as Presents, to be given to
the Western, & Other Tribes of the Indian Nations about the
Detroit ; as also An Accompt of Pay due to the Officers in Your
Department. —
I am, in the first place, to Observe, that the Amount of the
Goods, Supposed Necessary for the Indians, is really a large Sum ;
but You are the best Judge of What is Necessary to give them ; I
must only Desire You will Confine it to Such only, as are Absolute-
ly requisite; that no Expence May be Incurred, that can be
Avoided ; And I Must beg the favor of You to prepare Accord-
ingly, of that List, What You think absolutely necessary. I Should
think the Strowds may be taken off, Which is a heavy Article,
And the Other things are Sufficient to please them; for it is not
My Intention ever to Attempt to gain the Friendship of Indians
by presents: — As to Gun Powder, Lead, & Flints, the Indians
will be furnished with them from the Several posts; Arms they
have in Abundance, and I would not Encrease the Number. —
I Greatly fear, time will not permit me to make the Tour to
the Detroit, as I Intended: the tardiness of the Governments in
Sending the Provincial Troops to their Rendezvous here; And
the time Approaching in which Some Material Operations are to
be Carried on, that makes my presence necessary this way, will
debar me having the pleasure of Your Company in the Tour
Which I intended; and I think it of So much Consequence to
Settle all Affairs upon a good footing, with those Upper Indians
that I must Desire, You will be prepared for making a Visit to
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante pp. 277-79.
Seven Years' War 285
the Detroit; And that You will let me know When You can
conveniently go; When You will have the goods ready; and
What Batteaus You will require to take them to Oswego. —
I Have already Acquainted You, I am building two Vessells on
Lake Erie, & I purpose immediately Sending a Detachment of
about 300 Men, to help forwarding the building of the Vessells,
& afterwards to proceed with the Same to the Detroit to Assist
Cap1. Campbell the Commanding Officer there, in relieving the
Several Advanced posts, Which could not be Effected in the
Winter (in Case Cap*. Campbell Should not already have done
it) and for Exploring Lakes Huron, Michigan, & the Country
round about. —
If these Vessells Should not be ready by the time You Arrive
at Lake Erie, I Shall nevertheless put the Officer under Your
Command to Obey Such Orders as he Shall receive from You;
& to proceed with You in his Whaleboats, & Batteaus from
Niagara to the Detroit; and I Judge the Sooner this can take
place, will be the better for the publick Good. —
As You Desire a Warrant of a Thousand pounds, I Enclose
You One for that Sum, and beg the favor of You to have Your
Accompt made out, Including the things Which You will
purchase for the Indians, that a Warrant for the Ballance may be
Granted; Accounting for the Sum You received in February
last, and that now Granted You. —
I Have Yesterday received here Twenty One Children that
General Gage has Sent me from Canada, Who were Still remain-
ing there, hid by the Inhabitants; Amongst these, I find One
Daniel taken on the Mohawk River in 1 756; his Parents Dead;
a little Boy his Cousin, taken at the above place. Jacob Miller
of the German flatts taken there in 1 759. —
I Beg the favor of You to Acquaint the Relations of the
above Children, that they are here, and if they will Come and
receive them they Shall be Delivered to them. —
286 Sir William Johnson Papers
I Send Captain D'Arcy with this, and I am, with the greatest
Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Willm. Johnson, Baronet.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Castle Cumberland June 12th. 1761 —
Sir/
I am honoured with yours of Yesterday2 by Cap*. Darcy,
inclosed I have a Warrant for £ 1 000 Sterling for paying the
Officers still in the Indian Service.
When I made out the list of goods for a Present to be given to
ye. Westeren, & other Nations of Indians, who will attend a
Meeting at Detroit, I do assure You Sir, I used all the frugality,
which I Judged the good of the Service, & the end intended
thereby would admit of. and as I observed to your Excellency
in my letter at that time, that takeing less would be doing nothing.
I cant help being of the same opinion still, and as to Strowds, it
is the main Article next to Amunition. — as I have nothing in
view thereby, nor more at heart than his Majestys Interest and
my own Credit, by rendering him what Service I can, I would
choose by all means to go in such a manner as will best answer
that end, and I flatter myself if I am properly supported, and
allowed what is necessary, I shall be able to Settle matters with
all the Nations of Indians that way to your Excellencys Satisfac-
tion, and the Interest of ye. Government.
but this I am to observe to You Sir, and you may depend upon
it, that unless all our Old, as well as New Indian Allies are allowed
Amunition for their Livelyhood, or hunting, all Treaties held
with, or Presents made to them will never secure their friend-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ante p. 284.
Seven Years' War 287
ship, for they will in such case ever be Jealous of Us, as I find
they are a good deal so already, by reason of their not being able
to get, or purchase any from Us. — I therefore think it will be
absolutely necessary to have it in my power to give them, what I
may see requisite, they may at present do with what Arms they
have, but should they request Smiths among them, to repair &
keep in order what they have, as well as their working Utensils, I
should have it in my power to allow Such, if I find they deserve
it, which when among them, I shall soon be able to Judge. —
I expect to have everry thing necessary for my Journey ready
in about a fourth night, when I shall use all the dispatch possible
to get there. I think I shall want at least five large Battoes
well manned, and a good Whealboat for myself. — I doubt not
Sir, but You will furnish me with such Orders, as will prevent
any delay, or my being at a loss at any of the Posts along the
Way, for provisions for my Party, Boats, Carriages, or any
necessary Assistance I may have Occasion for. —
You may depend upon it Sir, I shall abuse no power you may
think proper to invest me with. —
As I have not time to have any Acclt. drawn out now without
delaying Captn. Darcy, I shall have it done, & sent down in a
few days. —
If the Children whom Genr1. Gage Sent from Canada were
here at my House, their Parents & Relations could verry soon
have them. If You think proper to order them here, I shall think
it no trouble to keep them until taken away. — As Lieu1. Guy
Johnson of the Independants, would be very Serviceable, I
should take it as a favour, if Your Excellency will allow him
to Accompany me the Tour. —
I am with all imaginable Esteem
Yr. Excellencys
Most Obedient &
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
288 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:
Sir William Johnson.
Castle Cumberland, 12th. June 1761
Recd 14th. Ditto.
Ansd 1 5th. Ditto
A MEMORANDUM CONCERNING STORES
A.D.S.1
Memorandum for Captn. Darcy to speak to General Amherst for
a Dozen Horsemens Tents, haveing forgot to mention it in my
Letter.2 they are for putting ye. Stores & Goods in, in case of
bad weather.
WM. Johnson
INDORSED :
Memorandum
from Sir Wm. Johnson
Recd. with his Letter of the
12*. June 1761 —the 14*. D°.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy*
Albany, 15th. June 1761.
Sir,
Captain D'Arcy has Yesterday Delivered Me Your Letter of
the 1 2th. Instant.4 —
As You Judge that all the Goods Which were Included in
the List You Sent me, are necessary for Making the proper
presents to the Indians, I can't but Chearfully Acquiese thereto;
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, June 12, 1761, ante p. 286.
2 Ante p. 286.
3 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
4 Ante p. 286.
Seven Years' War 289
being Assured You would not Incurr any Expence that can be
reasonably Avoided. —
I Have ordered Five Batteaus to be provided at Schenectady,
and I will Direct that a good Whaleboat Shall be got ready at
Oswego ; for there are none on this Side. —
I Have also ordered painted Cloths for the Batteaus, As they
will be Usefull in Keeping the Goods dry; and the Horsemen's
Tents Shall be delivered here to any one person You Shall Direct
to receive them. —
It is not Yet quite determined but that I may have the pleasure
of Accompanying You, Which I Should be very glad to do, if
time would but permit me. If I Should not be able to go, You
may be assured I shall furnish You with the necessary orders for
receiving Every Assistance You can want. —
I Shall Send to You the three Children that I mentioned in
my Letter of the 1 1 th. and Desire You will be so good to deliver
them to their parents, or Relations; but if they have no parents or
Relations, I must beg You will Send them back here that they
may be put into proper hands, that will take Care of them. —
As You Desire to have Lieut. Johnson1 with You I will Send
him Orders that he may be with You, in time to Accompany
You.—
One James Maxwell, Who had Stolen a Batteau belonging to
the King, at Schenectady, and was Carrying Rum up the Mohawk
River, Which I believe You heard Reported to me, When I had
the Pleasure of Seeing You here, has been with me to Intercede for
His Goods, Which I have Absolutely refused And have taken his
pass from him; telling him that he must turn his hands to Some
Other way of Life, for after this Action I cannot Suffer him to
Trade where the Army is ; I therefore Send You his pass, and beg
You will please not to give him any further permission. —
I am, with great Truth, and Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson, Baronet
1 Guy Johnson.
290 Sir William Johnson Papers
P : S : On Examining the Children I find a fourth who belongs to
the Mohawk River viz1. James Christis, Whom I likewise Send
to You. —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson June J 6th. J 76 J
Sir
I herewith send Your Excellency the State of my Acclt., by
which it will appear that I have £ 1 76 . .2 . . 10 Currcx. in my
hands, for carrying on the Service, when the Warrant is paid. —
There is now wanting a Warrant for the Goods &ca. which You
have the list of; the amount of them, as sett down in Said List,
being but a calculation of my own, I cannot until I have all
ye. Merchts. Acctts. give your Excellency the exact amount. I
fancy they will not come much less than what I put them down
at. — Altho You are pleased to think the present intended rather
large, I am much mistaken (when properly given) if Your
Excellency dont think it well bestowed, and find it productive of
a great deal of Good, for which my best endeavours shall be
used. —
I am with the greatest respect
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Seven Years' War 291
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
-/~1 . 1—1. vj.
For/ Johnson 21st. June 1 761 —
Sir
I am honoured with your last, and much oblidged for ye.
assurance you are pleased to give me of ordering all the necessary
assistance I may stand in need of while on the intended service I
am going upon, it ought indeed to be pritty generall as it is
impossible to foresee or know exactly what may be wanted in so
long a Journey. — I forgot in my last, to observe to yr. Excelly
that for the proposed Meeting at Detroit, some provisions will be
wanted to give the Indians while they attend it, as they never
carry any of their own on those occasions. — the Amunition wh.
I desired Mr. Wade2 to ask for, I intended to have taken along
and given to ye. Inds. on proper occasions, being well assured, that
if I have none to give them on my first going among them, my
Journey will not be to much purpose, for I find of late that all
.the Nations in Alliance with us, & those who might be brought in
to his Majestys Interest, are verry Jealous & uneasy at the cool-
ness & indifference wh. they think is shewed towards them, and
above all at the want of amunition, which they (from wl. the
French have been telling them, in order to make them more hearty
in their cause, as well as from their own fears & Jealousy of our
power) look upon to be done with a design of falling upon them,
whether these Suspicions are the cause of their not comeing down
among ye. Inhabitants, & carrying on that friendly intercourse with
us as usual heretofore, or not, I cannot with certainty say, but I
imagine it is, and am verry apprehensive that something not right
is a brewing, and that verry privately among them. I do not only
mean the Six Nations, I fear it is too generall. whatever it be, I
shall endeavour to find it out if possible before I return, and take
the best method I can, of oversetting everry thing I see wrong. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ferrall Wade.
292 Sir William Johnson Papers
I shall be glad that the Party wh. is to work up ye. boats was
ready by next friday or Saturday, at farthest at Schenectady by
which time I shall be ready to Sett of, haveing no delay but the
bringing up thither a few Stores of my own, the Tents & oil
Cloaths, which is done as soon as Your Excellency gives an order
for them & amunition to be delivered to Messrs. Kennedy & Lisle
at Albany, who will forward them imediately.
The Water in ye. Mohawk River is as low as ever known, so
that without it rises before I sett the boats of, they cannot take
halfe loads, even that will be verry difficult, unless the Party
I am allowed, understands something of that kind of work. — I
last night received the inclosed letter from one Harkemer1 liveing
at the German Flatts, which I find was wrote four days ago. it
is a very unlucky affair at this time. — I shall, as I go up that
way, speak to the Oneidaes concerning it, and insist on their
delivering up the Murderer, & any thing else Your Excellency
may think proper to direct me. —
I expect they will have a good deal to say against us, in a
parrallel case, about three years ago, there were two of their
People murdered by one of the Inhabitants of Albany, who was
tradeing among them, he got clear some way, by his haveing a
connection with the Dutch, that he had not even a Tryal. the Man
was seen by them often since to pass thro their Country, which I
heard them often complain in greatly off. the Man I understand
died at Niagra last Winter, his name was Thomas Smith, the two
Indians were helpless & dead drunk when he knocked their brains
out with a Setting Pole, this I do not mention as a palliation
of what the Indians has lately done, I only acquaint Your Ex-
cellency of it, least you might not have heard it, & there are
several such instances. — I am most respectfully
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
and most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
1 See "From Conrad Frank," June 17, 1 761, Johnson Papers, 3:407.
Seven Years' War 293
P.S. I have not as yet received all the Merch,s. Acctts. ; when I
do, which will be in two or three days, I shall send Yr. Excellency
ye. Amount of the whole, in order to receive yr. Warrant for it. —
AMHERST S INSTRUCTIONS TO HENRY GLADWIN
Copy1
[Albany, June 22, 1761.]
By His Excellency Jeffery Amherst Esqr. Major General, &
Commander in Chief of all His Majesty's Forces in North
America, &ca.&ca.&ca.
To Major Gladwin, Commanding His Majesty's 80th. or Reg1,
of Light Armed Foot.
As I Judge it necessary to Explore the Upper Lakes, and
the Country Surrounding them, as well as to Assist Cap*. Camp-
bell, Commanding at the Detroit, in Calling in all the Out posts of
the French, & fixing proper Garrisons for the protection & Security
of the Same ; In Order to Compleat this Service Effectually, I have
Directed two Vessells to be built on Lake Erie, one of which is to
Carry Six Four Pounders & Eight Swivels, & the other Four
Four Pounders & Six Swivels, Which Vessells are building under
the Direction of Lieut. Robertson, as near as may be to Niagara.
You are therefore, immediately on the receipt of this to take
the Whole of the Reg', under Your Command, Excepting a
Captain, two Subalterns and about 100 men, which You will leave
for the Defence of Fort Wm. Augustus & Oswegatchie; In ad-
dition to which I have ordered a Captain, two Subalterns, Four
Serjeants, & one Hundred Men of the New York Troops to
proceed from Oswego to Fort Wm. Augustus, to reinforce that
post as well as for Continuing & Compleating the Repairs, that
You are now making there.
You will therefore leave all such Orders as You have received,
that regard the Defence of that post, & Oswegatchie, with such
1 In Canadian Archives, C. O. 5, Vol. 61-62, pp. 566-72.
294 Sir William Johnson Papers
Instructions as You Judge Necessary for the said Captain of
Gage's, who will Continue to Compleat the Repairs; for the
Direction of which I shall order Ensign Rivez1 from hence, that
You may take Lieut Brehme2 under Your Command, on the
Service You are now going on, and Lieu1. Brehme need not
wait for Ensign Rivez' Arrival.
You will therefore with all Convenient Expedition, after
leaving the Detachm1. of near 100 Men as above Directed, take the
whole Remainder of the Regimt. with their Camp Equipage ; tak-
ing likewise Your Surgeon with You, as I shall order a Mate for
the Care of the Men remaining at the Fort ; And You will proceed
to Oswego, where You will take under Your Charge Ten four
pounders, which are to be taken from any of the Vessells, with
fourteen Swivels that I sent from hence to Oswego for that purpose,
and as much Ammunition as is necessary for these Guns ; and with
such Batteaus & Whaleboats as You Judge Necessary to take
with You to proceed to Niagara, where there are Horses &
Waggons to transport them over the Carrying place; for which
You will apply to Major Walters;3 and You will encamp Your
People, during your stay there, so as to Assist as much as You
can in building of the Vessells and repairing and putting in
thorough good order such Batteaus, and Whaleboats, as You shall
think proper to take over the Lake to the Detroit.
You will take the Command of the said two Vessells, by giving
such Directions to Lieu1. Robertson, as You shall Judge proper
& for his following You with one or both to the Detroit, in Case
they should not be ready time Enough to proceed with You ; My
Instructions being, that You should Explore in the best Manner
You Can Lake Huron & Michigan, for which purpose these
Vessells are built, so that they may pass the Detroit; and You will,
either with the whole, or a part of Your Command proceed to the
Detroit before the Vessells are finished, in Case they should take
up any length of time to Compleat them.
1 Ensign Charles Rivez of 60th regiment.
2 Lieut. Dietrick Brehm of 62d regiment.
3 Major William Walters, of 60th regiment.
Seven Years' War 295
I Judge Cap*. Campbell may have relieved the out posts, for
which he had orders to the Commanding Officers, and I would
have the Rangers, if there are any yet remaining, Relieved & sent
back.
Michillimakinac, St. Joseph, the post of La Baye, Miamis and
oyatonons,1 will all require small Garrisons; What will be Suf-
ficient for Keeping these posts, will be best Decided on Your
Viewing them, which I shall leave to Your Judgement and Dis-
cretion ; And that You will Settle Accordingly with Cap1. Camp-
bell ; And as the numbers the said Captain has with him I imagine
will not be Sufficient for Garrisoning these Small posts, I would
have as many Men as may be wanted for that Service, added to
Cap1. Campbell's Command, and sent from the Garrison of
Niagara for which an Order shall be Enclosed.
The Tour You have to take, must require some time to do it,
And it is necessary You should take a Quantity of provisions with
You from Oswego to Niagara, from whence You may be
supplied at any time; but You will of course take as large a
Quantity with You, when you proceed from Niagara as You think
You shall Want.
I have Directed Major Gen1. Monckton to order a Block
house to be built at Saint cTousgey at the South West End of Lake
Erie, this will be done from the Troops of the Garrison of Presqu'
Isle &ca. and will not Interfere with Your Command.
It will be necessary that You should take a proportion of
Tools with You; Lieu1. Brehme will best decide what Quantity
will be necessary, and as I have ordered up a Large Proportion
from Montreal to Fort Wm. Augustus & Oswego, You will supply
Yourself there before You set out with what You may want.
Sir Willm. Johnson will set out in a short time for the Detroit
to Call together the Indian Nations, & settle all Affairs upon the
best footing with them; You will obey any Orders You may
receive from Sr. Wm. Johnson, in regard to the relieving the posts,
1 Ouiattonon, site of present Lafayette, Indiana,
296 Sir William Johnson Papers
giving him any Assistance he may want, or in Any thing that may
be required for the Service that he is Carrying on.
You will take all opportunitys of Acquainting Me of Your
progress — You will assist Cap1. Campbell in doing anything
that may be necessary for the Defence of the Posts where he Com-
mands, or that he may require for the Good of the Service.
I Enclose You Copies of the orders that were sent to the
officers Commanding the posts ; and a Sketch of the Lakes with a
Line marking what belongs to Canada, as it was drawn out by
Monsr. de Vaudreuil. By this You will see all La\e Superior is
Included in the Capitulation of Canada; so that You will get
Every Information, and Intelligence You Can of that Lake as
well as the others before mentioned ; and as this will be the work
of the Whole Summer You will proceed in such manner as You
think most Conducive to the Desired End ; And when You have
Compleated the Whole, You will Return to Niagara, leaving
such part of the Regiment under Your Command as may be
absolutely wanted to make up the numbers that Cap1. Campbell
shall Draw from thence; and with the rest You will Return to
Fort William Augustus.
Given under my Hand at Head Quarters in Albany this 22d.
Day of June 1 761.
INDORSED:
Copy - General Amherst's
Instructions
To Major Gladwin.
Commanding a Detachment of
300 Men of Gage's for Exploring the
Upper Lakes &ca.
Albany, 22<*. June 1761.
in M. G. Amherst's of Aug*. 13: 1 761 .
No. 57.
Seven Years' War 297
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany, 24th June 1761
Sir
I am to own the Receipt of Your Letter of the 1 6th. Instant,2
which I should have immediately Acknowledged; but as I had
transmitted you a Warrant for one Thousand Pounds Sterling,
there was nothing that Required a Direct Answer. —
I am last Night favored with Your Letter of the 2 1 st. Instant3
Enclosing a Letter from one Herchheimer,4 giving an Account of
One of the Inhabitants being Killed by an Indian ; I am extremely
Sorry for this Affair, and can't but think it absolutely right that
the Nation to whom this Indian belongs should be Instantly obliged
to give the murderer up, that Justice may be done : Had one of
the Inhabitants Committed a Murder on one of the Indians, I
Should be for bringing that Inhabitant to Justice in like manner. —
This is my way of thinking in which I shall never alter —
The great Slothfullness of the Provincials Arriving here, and
other Services that will Soon call for my presence, oblige me
entirely to give over the thoughts of Accompanying You as I
should have been glad to have done; but I will try to make
Every thing as Convenient and agreable to You in the Essential
Service You are going on, as is in my power.5
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 290.
8 Ante p. 291.
4 See "From Conrad Frank," June 17, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:407.
5 From this point onward, with but minor differences in style, the letter
continues as printed in Johnson Papers, 3:421.
298 Sir William Johnson Papers
A LIST OF ENCLOSURES
Contemporary Copy1
[June 24 , / 761]
List of papers Enclosed to Sir Wm. Johnson, and Referr'd to in
the General's Letter to him of the 24th. June 1 761 2 — Viz*.
N°. 1 . Extract . . . Gen1. Amherst's Orders to
Major Rogers 12th Sep1 1 760.
2. Ditto . . . Gen1. Amherst's Letter to Capt
Campbell at Detroit 1 2 Apr1 1 761
3. Ditto. . .Ditto to Ditto 27 May
4. Ditto. . .Ditto to Ditto 18th. June
5. Ditto. . .Ditto to Ditto 22d. June
6. Copy. .Address of the Inhabitants of
the Detroit to the General
7. Ditto. .The General's Answer 12th. April
8. Ditto . . Mr. Navarre's Letter to the
General 1 0th. March
9. Ditto . . The General's Answer 1 2th. April
1 0. Extract. Gen1 Amherst's Instructions to
Major Gladwin3 22d June
1 1 . Copy — Intelligence sent by Gen1 Gage ;"
being a Letter4 from a Jesuit at 7th May
S*. Ignace to another at MontreaL
1 2. Ditto — Gen1. Amherst's Orders to Capt
Waters of ye Yorkers5 24th June
1 3. Ditto of the third Article of the Capitu-
lation of Canada.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Amherst to Johnson, June 24, 1 761 , ante p. 297, and Johnson Papers,
3:421.
3 Ante p. 293.
4 This letter will be found in Johnson Papers, 3:412.
5 Post p. 299.
Seven Years' War 299
The following Letters under flying Seal, Viz*.
To Major Duncan1 or officer Commanding
at Fort Ontario 24th June
To Major Duncan,1 or officer Commanding
at Niagara Ditto
To Captain Campbell, or officer Command-
ing at the Detroit Ditto
JEFFERY AMHERST TO CAPTAIN WATERS
Contemporary Copy2
[Albany, June 24, 1 761]
By His Excellency Jeffery Amherst Esqr. &ca, &ca, &ca —
To Captain Waters of the New York Troops at Schenec-
tady. —
Whereas I have this day Directed Lieut. De Garmo,3 with one
Serjeant, & Sixteen men of the Yorkers, to proceed to Schenec-
tady, and to Deliver over to You Such of the above men, as You
might Chuse to Join to Your Detachment for the Services
hereafter mentioned; These are therefore to Order and Direct
You, after taking these men (notwithstanding my Orders to You
of the 23d. Instant) to make a Detachment from those under Your
Command, of One Subaltern, two Serjts. And Thirty Eight
men, Such as are most Expert in the Batteau Service, as they are
Intended for transporting Some Indian Stores to Oswego, And
You will take the Command of this Detachment, and follow and
Obey all Such orders as You Shall receive from Sr. Wm. John-
son. —
On the receipt of this You will apply to Mr. Glenn4 for Five
Batteaus that are Ordered to be ready for Sir Wm. Johnson's Use ;
And You will take these Under Your Care and Charge, remaining
1 Major Alexander Duncan, of 55th regiment.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 John De Garmo, of New York provincials.
4 John Glen, Jr.
300 Sir William Johnson Papers
with Your Detachm1. of one Subaltern two Serjeants & 38 men
at Schenectady 'till You receive Sir Wm. Johnson's Orders. —
You will Direct the Subaltern officer whom You leave with the
men, over and above the Number You take with You, to remain
at Schenectady, to Joyn the first Detachm1. of New York Troops
that may be ordered to Oswego, & to proceed with that
Detachment. —
Given &ca. Albany. 24th. June 1761 —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
f\% Li. WJ.
Fort Johnson 27th. June 1761
Sir
Yours of the 24th. Ins1, with the Severall inclosures,2 I was
last night honoured with. I have by them, a clear Idea of what
You intend I should know, and you may depend upon it, Sir I
shall endeavour all in my power to do everry thing for the best,
as far as I am able, and should I be so lucky as to answer yr.
expectations in sending me this Tour, I shall think myself happy,
& my time well spent. — Mr. Croghan delivered me the inclosed,
by which, and what he tells me, I find there is a great Number of
the Chiefs of the severall Nations, who were to compose ye.
intended Meeting at Detroit, called down, and likely now are
on their way to Pensilvania, on the repeated Invitations received
from that Government, this agrees with what the Six Nations
told me the last Winter, which was that they had received three
Belts from Philadelphia entreating them to come and attend a
great Meeting which was proposed to be held there this
Summer. —
Notwithstanding all this, Mr. Hamilton in his letter to me of
the 12A.3 May last, which I shewed your Excellency, when I had
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 See A List of Enclosures, June 24, 1761, ante p. 298.
3 In Johnson Papers, 3:390-392.
Seven Years' War 301
the honour of seeing you last at Albany, declares most sincerely
that he never did since his arrival to the Government send the
least message or Belt of invitation to them for any purpose
whatsoever neither had he the least expectation of a visit either of
freindship or business from them, and that if any other Persons
of the Province had presumed to send Messages to them, it was
quite unknown to him and that he would be glad to be made ac-
quainted wth. their names that they might be dealt with according
to their deserts. — that government has acted in this manner
several times since my appointment, and in open opposition to
measures ordered by former Generals, particularly in the Earl
of Loudons time, if the Indians are not stopped, & brought back
to Detroit, the end of my going there will not at all be answered,
wherefore I now send Mr. Croghan back by the way of Pitts-
borough, that he may let all Indians whom he may meet going to
Philadelphia or elsewhere, know of my being on my way to
Detroit, in order to settle all affairs with the Indians in them parts.
I must beg leave to refer You to Mr. Croghan for a more
particular account of the conduct of that Government in this
affair. — Captn. Walters arrived here last night with some Artill-
ery which he secured at one Mr. Wemps within a Mile of my
House, and is gone this Morning to Schenectady with his Party
for the five Battoes I am to have, as soon as he returns they shall
load & sett off, which will not be I believe before Monday or
tuesday next, as the Water is verry low in the Mohawk River.
Mr. Croghan tells me that by the Rendezvous of the French
Troops, and Indians at Detroit in 1 759, the Inhabitants were
plundered, and left so destitute of everry thing, particularly pro-
visions, & Cattle, that I cannot depend on purchaseing any thing
from them for the maintenance of the Indians while they attend
the Treaty, this I doubt not your Excellency will consider, as
302 Sir William Johnson Papers
you well know there will be no keeping them without provisions. —
and that not a small matter.
I have the honour to be Sir
with the utmost respect
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst —
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[Albany, June 28, 1761]
Proceedings At a Meeting held at Albany June 28th. 1761, by
George Croghan Esqr. Dep?. Agent for Indian affairs with the
Deputys of the Coghnawagas, Canassadagas, & other Nations of
Indians, by order of Sir William Johnson Bart —
Mr. Croghan first Wellcomed them with the usual ceremonies;
then condoled with them for the loss of the Sachem, who died the
last Spring at Conassadaga. Then the Indians after going through
the same ceremony, spoke as follows
Brother Warraghiyagey
When you spoke to our Nations in Canada, you cleared the
road between you & us, & buried every thing that was evil, &
desired us to forget what was past this war. We now assure you
Brother that we have acted as you desired us, we assure you of our
sincerity, & hope you will always direct us, how to promote the
friendship subsisting between us —
A belt 8 rows
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 303
Brother
Since the beginning of the present war, great Numbers of our
People and Friends have been lost by the instigation of the
Evil Spirit, with this belt we therefore gather up the bones on
both sides, & bury them, that what has happened may be forgot
A belt 1 1 Rows
Brother
By this belt we desire in behalf of all the Nations that
you will assist us in strengthening the peace, so happily settled
between us by you last fall, it is in your power to make it a
lasting one —
A belt 1 1 Rows
Brother
This belt is in behalf of our Warriors who have agreed with
us to asist in strengthening the peace & friendship, & we hope yr.
warriors will do the same —
A belt, 8 Rs.
Brother
By this Belt I assure you that our Warriors have taken the
strongest resolutions to behave in such a manner, as will be agreable
to our brethren, & make this a lasts, peace.
A belt 9 R.
Brother
You are sensible that 'tis our peoples misfortune to love spiritous
liquor; but if any of them shd. behave ill in their liquor, we
desire you may not abuse them, but on applying to us you shall
have such satisfaction, as their crime may deserve —
a black belt 6 Rs
Brother
I have told you the resolutions of our Warriors to strengthen
the peace. And in case any thing that is Evil, should remain in
the hearts of any of them; we shall give them a Dose, which
304 Sir William Johnson Papers
shall oblige them to Void up their evil thoughts & Cleanse their
hearts —
A black belt 5 Rows
Brother
For some time past, there hath been darkness all over this
land, we therefore now disperse all the dark Clouds, that hath
hung over our heads, that we, & our Children unborn, may see the
Sun clear so soon as they come into the World —
A belt 9 Rows
Brother
You told us the Road was good; but we have found a great
many stumps in the way. Now Brother we will assist you, & pull
up all the stumps that is in way, & make the road smooth &
pleasant from Albany to our Castle at Caghnawaga, for you, & us
to travel
A Row'd belt
Brother
Last fall you sent us a Message desiring we might speak to
the Delawares that live near us, as they were a foolish people,
& did not behave well ; & promised that you wd. speak to those that
live near you. We have spoken to those you desired us, and you
may depend on their good behaviour for the future —
A belt 9 Rows
Brother
We have delivered you all your flesh and blood, and to
those Inds. who have been with you during the War; We desire by
this belt, that you will speak to the Mohikanders Inds., that
we may see our flesh, and blood, that they have —
A belt 8 Rows
Brother
We are sorry at this time to have occasion to make complaint,
but we can't help it, havs. received very ill usage from your
Seven Years' War 305
people this winter at the Cedars1 on our hunts, road, who have
fired sev1. times at our Canoes passing down, & when we came
on shore, have taken our meat, & what they fancied from us with*,
pay & beat any of our people severely who grumbled, which, as
'tis tretm*. we have not been used to, We hope Brother that you
will give orders, that we may not be used so again —
A belt 6 Rows
Brother
One of our princip1. men being dead, it is our custom to have
one rear'd up in his room, to assist in Counc1., we therefor apply
to you to rear up one in his stead as is customary —
A belt 6 Rows
Brother
We have now done the business we came on, in behalf of the
sev1. Nat5, in our Country, accords, to our Custom we can't help
letting you know that we are in want of ev'ry necessary of life,
& beg you'll order us a few Guns, & Powder & Lead, Kettles &
Cloaths, to enable us to hunt for our provisions going home —
A String
Brother
On all occasions when we formerly visited our fathers, the
French, they listened to our requests & always pitied our neces-
sities ; we hope broth1-, you'll do the same, as we are a poor people,
& can't well subsist without your assistance —
A belt
1 On the St. Lawrence River.
306 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fori Johnson 28th. June 1 761
Sir/
I was so much hurried when Mr. Croghan left this, that I had
not time to look over the amount of the goods for the intended
present, but I have since, & find it more than the first list I gave
You, occasioned by the high prices of them kind of goods, and
some material Articles which I had forgot inserting in ye. first list
such as Wampum, Rum &ca., so that the whole except some
trifleing acctls. at Schenectady not yet sent in, comes to £ 1 250
Sterling, for which I shall be glad Your Excellency would please
to order a Warrant, that Mr. Wade2 who I send down on that
acclt., may be enabled to discharge the whole e're I sett off. —
altho this Sum exceeds what you intended, it will be a mere
trifle, should there Assemble, as many Indians as I expect, and,
as it is the first time of my going ami them Nations, (which I
flatter my self will be verry agreable to them, and I believe of a
good deal of Service) had I been able to take a proper quantity,
that Each might Share something worth while of his Majestys
Bounty, & I am certain it must make a verry good impression on
the minds of Young & Old, in case it never was repeated. — Mr.
Croghan can now acquaint Your Excellency of that affair, which
Mr. Denny wrote You about, concerning two Hundred Pounds,
which he had advanced.
I sincerely wish your Excellency a pleasant & Successfull
Summer, and am with the greatest Esteem
Sir
Your most Obedient
and most Humble Servant
tj. r ,i WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ferrall Wade.
Seven Years' War 307
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Albany, 29th. June 1761
Sir,
I Conclude You will be Set out on Your Journey ; but as Your
Loaded Batteaus, I fear, will take Some time to get up the River
this dry Season, this will Easily overtake You, and I therefore
can't omit acknowledging the favor of the Receipt of Your Let-
ters of the 27th. & 28th. Instant.2 —
Wlr. Croghan Delivered me the first, Came very opportunely to
have a Talk with Some Canessadaga Indians Who Came to See
You; he has Settled Every thing with them: I Shall Send them
back in good Humour, and Desire General Gage to furnish
them with Some things that Otherwise Should have been given
them here, that they May not be too fond of taking this Route. —
I Think You do Perfectly right in Sending Mr. Croghan back
by the Pensylvania Route, to take back any of the Indians, Who
may be Coming that way, Who Undoubtedly will be of their
Chiefs; and it would, in a great measure Destroy the Intent of
Your Journey, in having them Absent When You Assemble
the Several Nations at the Detroit.
The Behavior of the People of Pensylvania, on this occasion,
is very unwarrantable, and I hope the Governor will punish them
as he has promised You, and finding out those Who are con-
cerned in Inviting of the Indians down. —
I Have wrote to General Monckton to acquaint him of Your
Assembling the Nations at the Detroit; and that as fresh Provi-
sions are, What You Would Chuse on that occasion, I think
the best way of Sending of Live Cattle will be by Pittsburgh.
Mr. Croghan will Speak with Gen1. Monckton on this, and Settle
it. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. Also a copy in Canadian
Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Ante pp. 300, 306.
308 Sir William Johnson Papers
As You Desire to have a Warrant for Twelve Hundred and
Fifty Pounds Sterling, and that You tell Me the Accols. already
Amount to that Sum, I have Signed one for the Same, in favor
of Mr. Ferral Wade, & Delivered it to him that he may Dis-
charge the Several Bills, agreable to Your Desires to me for that
purpose; and I shall be glad to have the Accompts, as Soon as
You Conveniently can that I may Clear the Whole off. —
As I hear Nothing of Lieut. Johnson,1 I imagine he may be
gone across the Country from Fort Edward, to meet You. If he
Should Come this way, I Shall Send him after You.
I am, with great Truth & Regard,
Sir,
&ca. —
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Fort Johnson June 29th. 1761
Sir/
I yesterday received yours of the — and have only time to tell
you that ye. Stockbridge Indians expect the Abanakies will come
soon and replace the Indian they killed, which will make up the
affair entirely, useing some more form with Belts, such as taking
ye. Hatchet out of their Head &ca. the sooner it is over the Better.
I am sorry I cannot be at home to assist them, at the time. They
must now do it themselves, as I am going for Detroit in a Day
or two. — French Peter3 & Captn. Dick arrived here half an hour
ago, & told me You & Cap1. Lotteradge were well. & that the
Pawny4 run away from them, not being tied, wh. might be ex-
1 Guy Johnson.
2 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1 , M. 104, p. 56.
3 Peter, alias Tacquayanont, formerly a spy, was a Mohawk who had
deserted the French in 1 755. Thus he was known as French Peter.
4 Pani, a term regularly used to describe an Indian slave.
Seven Years' War 309
pected. I wish he was sent by a good carefull hand, the next
time. I have heard nothing of the horse You were to send me this
long time, I hope he is not cast away. I wish you a pleasant
Summer, and am with regard
Your welwisher
& Humble Servant
pn WM. Johnson
I sent Croghan down yesterday
to Albany to meet & hear what
the Caghnawageys have to say,1
as I am on the Wing myself —
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
Copy2
Lebanon, June - 1761.
Sir,
Your public character, the honor and bounty of the crown
conferred upon you, and your situation among, and concern for
the Indian Natives, all invite me to take the freedom to represent
to you the design of a Charity School instituted in their favor,
and act the part of a beggar in their behalf, convinced of the
great neglect of this land, in using so few and feeble endeavours
to polish and christianize them. We have been persuaded, that
the education of some of their sons in the liberal arts and sciences,
as well as in the knowledge and practice of the protestant religion,
and the fitting of some for missionaries among their respective
tribes, might have a happy effect to guard them against the influ-
ence of Jesuits; be an antidote to their idolatrous and savage
practices; attach them to the English interest, and induce them
to a cordial subjection to the crown of Britain, and it is to be
hoped, to a subjection to the king of Zion.
1 See An Indian Conference, June 28, 1 761 , ante p. 302, for Croghan's
conference with the Caghnawagas.
2 Printed in Memoirs of the Rev. Eleazar Wheelock . . . , pp. 227-78.
310 Sir William Johnson Papers
Upon my desire the Rev. John Brainard sent me, thirteen
months ago, two likely Indian boys of the Delaware tribe, to be
qualified as missionaries among the natives. And towards a fund
for the support of a charity school, Mr. Moor had given a small
tenement in this place, and for the same purpose, we have obtained
subscriptions for five hundred pounds.
We could wish, Sir, that the affair might appear to you as it
does to us, worthy the encouragement of all great and good men,
and that you will account it not the least of your honor, to be
a friend and patron to it.
Please to pardon my boldness, and let the nature of the design
excuse one, who is, though unknown, with much respect,
Your Honor's very humble servant,
Eleazar Weelock
Honorable SlR WlLLIAM JoHNSON, Baron,
Mount Johnson.
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Cop})1
New York, July 2nd 1 761.
Sir
I am sorry to find by yours of the 1 8th. of last Month2 that I
have not given you all the satisfaction that I was very desirous
to do. After G1 Amherst by letter, and G1 Monkton in person
had interposed in favour of Mr. Schuyler, I had in prudence no
choice left, & I flatter myself that you are so much convinced
of this that you will readily excuse my not complying with your
request.
But your imagining that any obstruction to your obtaining a
Grant of the Lands which the Indians have given you by Deed
of Gift, arises from me, gives me the most uneasiness, because I
1 Printed in New Yorl( Historical Society Collections, 1876, Colden
Papers, pp. 96-97.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:408-1 1.
Seven Years' War 3 1 1
truely took those steps which I and your friends thought the most
adviseable for your obtaining your purpose. The Council had
advised to giving a Lycence of purchase to the same lands before
your Deed of Gift was known to me. After I knew it I stopped
the issuing of the Lycences and they still remain with me. As to
other particulars in this affair, I must refer you to what your
good friend Mr Banyar has wrote you on that subject, for he
has your interest sincerely at heart.
I cannot allow the Kings right to the Soil of the Lands on the
East side of Hudsons River to be call'd in question. The Lands
which I am advised by the Council to Grant to Major Rogers
and his Associates on the West side of Lake George are evidently
part of the Lands purchas'd of the Indians the 5th Day of June
1690 by Godfrey Dellius & granted to him by Letters Patent
the 3rd of Sepf following, which Grant was vacated by Act of
Assembly, confirm'd by Queen Anne and the Land revested
in the Crown.
As to the other Purchases of Lands, they are of little con-
sequence to me, as the grant of these Lands, supposeing the pur-
chase could be made without delay, cannot with any probability
pass while the administration is in my hands, but the stopping of
them may be of great prejudice to the settling of the Country,
as great numbers of people are now fond of settling in that part
of the Country, & they likely to draw greater numbers after them.
If they should be diverted another way, as probably they will,
it will really be a prejudice to the King & to the Province.
Be assur'd that I am with the greatest regard Sr &c
P.S. I expect an answer in writing from Mr Barclay as to the
land he has near the Mohawk, which I shall send to you as soon
as I receive it. The Indians have my permission to build a Church
at Conajohary. I am &c
312 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
jn.* I—,, v5.
German Flails July 7th. 1761 —
Sir
On my arrival here, I met with about thirty of the Cheif Men
of Oneida & Tuscarora who were on their way to my House in
order to settle matters relative to the late Murder. I imediately
assembled them together, and after the Ceremony of condolence
was gone thro, they expressed their great concern for that unhappy
accident, and informed me that notwithstanding they had con-
stantly cautioned their Young Men not to offer the least insult
to any of the Inhabitants, or their property, unfortunately one
of them being drunk committed it without their knowledge and
imediately fled, neither have they as yet been able to learn which
way he is gone, when they do, and can get him they will readily
conform to your demand of delivering him up. — they then added
that as two of their People were some time ago murdered by one
Smith near this place, for which they never met wth. any redress
they hoped it would be a means of induceing us to forget the
late Accident, which was committed so contrary to their inclina-
tions or intentions. —
They then addressed me in the name of the Confederate
Nations, to represent their earnest request that You would pro-
tect their Lands, and preventing any farther Settlements being
made thereon, as they were determined not to dispose of any part
of their Property yet unsold above this place, whh. they are fre-
quently solli [ci] tted to do, notwithstanding their resolution to
keep it in their own hands.
They complained greatly of the dearness of Indian Goods,
and their not being allowed to buy powder which must prevent
their Young Men from hunting for their Support, as to the first,
I shall look into it at the several Posts where the Traders reside,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; the first paragraph
of this letter is printed in slightly different form in Johnson Papers, 3:504.
Seven Years' War 313
and regulate the prices in the best manner I can to their satisfac-
tion, & should be glad to be favoured with you Excellencys
sentiments regarding the latter, as I am certain it will be a generall
complaint amongst all the Nations, & to which they will expect
an answer.
The extreme lowness of the Water at this season, together with
some desertions, renders my Journey verry tedious, and will
necessitate me to get some more Men as soon as I possibly can
procure them. —
I sincerely wish you a Successfull & pleasant Summer, and am
with great truth & respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
You will excuse the badness of the paper,
as my baggage is gone forward —
His Excellency
General Amherst
to eleazar wheelock
Copy1
German Flatts, July 7 th, 1761 .
Rev. Sir
As I am so far on my way to Detroit, I have only time to
acknowledge the receipt of yours,2 and to acquaint you that in
compliance therewith, have got two Mohawk lads, to go to you
in order to be instructed; and doubt not but in my way through
the other nations, I shall be able to send you three or four more,
so as to complete the number you desire.
1 Printed in Memoirs of Rev. Eleazar Wheelock ...(1811), pp.
228-29,
2 See Wheelock to Johnson, June, 1 761, ante p. 309.
314 Sir William Johnson Papers
Mr. Cecum1 is now here, and proceeds with me tomorrow to
the Oneida nation, to whom I shall introduce him, and advise
them cheerfully and thankfully to embrace this favourable op-
portunity, which, I doubt not will prove greatly to their temporal
as well as eternal felicity.
I wish you all the success, which your pious undertaking
deserves, and am, Rev. Sir,
Your most humble servant,
Rev. Mr. Wheelock William J°hnson
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Albany 14lh July 1761.
Dear Sir
I flatter myself you will excuse me the liberty I take in troubling
you with this, as I imagine among!. st the several Nations of Indians
at the Detroit, some Furrs may be got which are not to be pro-
cured here, and I beg the favour of you to desire Lf. Johnson3
to buy me some black Fox, or any curious Furrs which may be
found there, that I should be glad to have, to make presents to
two Ladys in England, which I hope will plead the excuse of
this trouble from r-. c-
Dear oir
Your most Obedient Humble
Servant
SR wm Johnson Bar'. JefF: Amherst
INDORSED:4
Albany July 14*. 1761.
General Amhersts Letter
1 Rev. Samson Occum (1723-92), a Mohegan pupil of Wheelock,
famed as an itinerant preacher in New England.
2 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
3 Guy Johnson.
4 In Johnson's hand.
Seven Years' War 315
FERRALL WADE TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Albany 19th July 1761
May It Please Your Excellency.
I am sent by Sir William Johnson to pay a draft of £800
St&. which Capt. Daniel Clause drew on him in favour of Captn.
Williamoz (its payable heare) I offered to pay it at the rate of
4/8 ^3 dollar which was Mr. Clause's Directions and Sir William
Johnson Orders me Except Your Excellency Ordered it Other-
wise — Mr. Van Schaayk2 in whose hand the draft is has refused
to Receive the Money at that rate I mentioned to him that Captn.
Coventry paid Capn. Crookshanks at 4/8 the dollar — would be
Glad to have Your Excellencys orders — I am
with the Greatest Respect
Your Excellency's
Most Obedient & most humble
Servant
Ferrall Wade
INDORSED:
M'. Ferrall Wade.
Albany 19* July 1761
Recd — same day
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. See Clans to Johnson,
Sept. 30, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:546.
2 Henry Van Schaak, of Albany.
316 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary) Cop};1
Fort Pitt July 25*. 1 761
Sir
I arrived heer three days ago and immediately sent messages
to the principal indians of the deferant Nations to meet me at the
Bever's Town on my way to Sanduskee for which place I set Off
this evening in my way to D'Troit. here is no cattle to take To
D'Troit nor can the party set off with me to Sanduskee to Build
the Block house there for want of provisions, and twenty Days
ago the Carpenter's was not arriv'd at Prisqu-Isle to build The
vessels for reconitering the uper Laks.
I have spoke to several indians of the six Nations Dallaways
and Shanneys and cant find by any of them That those Nations
make any Complaints, or seem much Uneasy on any account,
but an Old Six Nation indian from The Sinica Country says
that the six Nations, are very uneassy And make great complaints
of the usage they have meet from the General Since the reduction
of Cannada, and says it is True they have acquainted all those
westren indians of it, and Seems very jealous that the English
have some bad designs Against them, but he Says the Six nation
Message must have been misrepresented to give rise to the leat
Alarm, what Step's the Six Nations may take hereafter, he
declairs, he dos Not know, nor do's he belive they have come
to any resolution Themselv's as yet
What they complain Of is as follows, they Say that dureing
the warr, they were call'd frequently, by all the Kings, Generals,
one after another, from time to time when any Service's was
wanted of them, that before they declaired Oppenly in favour
of the English, that they all-ways gave intelligence of the Enemys
motion; that when they had declaired themselv's in favour of the
English they sent five hundred men to join General Abercrumby,
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection. This
copy addressed to General Monckton was sent also to Sir William.
Seven Years' War 3 1 7
that they sent one thousand men With Sir William Johnson
against Nigara, and aledge that if they had not joined the English
there, the place had not Been taken, and last year they say they
joined General Amherst with as many men as they could spare
out of thier Country, and would have gon to Mountreal with him
But he would not Suffier them to prosequte the warr agreeable
to thier own custom, against his Majestys Enemy s Which they
wanted to do in Order to take full revenge of the French, for
the former insults thier Ancesters had received, on the first Settle-
ing of Cannada (by this your honour Will see that those people
never forget, nor forgive) and they thot thier turning back
at a time when the General seemed not to want them, could not
give Sufficheant reasson to refuse them a free and Oppen tread
and communications in thier own Country (as they call it) and
farther they say that the General has given away a part of The
Country, which the King has long ago promist to Keep for thier
use. those he says is the Grivences That he has herd them, in
thier councils complain Off, and he says they Expect nothing but
that the General intends to Attempt inslaving them.
He farther informs me that three days Ago, he meet about
fifteen miles up the Ohio tow1 Cheraokie indians (who was for-
merly prisnors amoungse the Six Nations) going to the Sinica
Country with Messages To the six Nations, that those Cherrokees
tould him that The Cherrokees had had a battle with part of the
Armey To the Southard, and had beat the English, but could
give No perticulours. by what I can learn from principal Men
of the Shanneys, from the uper Towns, it appeers to me that
they are in the utmost Confusion about our prisnors; that they
have got About fourty to Deliver up ; but cannot agree amoungst
themselvs, to deliver up the whole at onest; I pushed them on
This Subject before I went down, and they have been hard pusht
Since I went down by Col°. Bouquet, they have no laws to
Oblige thier people but by presueassion and the prisnors by
Adoption is a property of the Familys they live with ; and I make
T
wo.
318 Sir William Johnson Papers
no doubt but In time they will be chiefly got from them and the
Delaways to; unless those who will not lave them (many to my
knowledge has been at liberty Some time) and I cannot prevaile
on them to go Home boath men and woman; Whether now to
Distress the Shanneys to much, at this time on this Account if
they shoe a good inclanation to behave Well by delivering a
number might not push them To be guilty of some rash and
inconsiderate behavour, without Considering the consequences, I
must refer to your Excellency's Consideration, and when I know
Your Orders on this head I Shall punctually Obey them. I am
Sorry to acquaint you that the Expence Since my Departure, for
Expreses Serviceses don & some small Presents will amount to
above four hundred pounds.
The Delaways is to meet me at the Bevers Town, when I will
acquaint them of Hickman being kill'd, and Condole with them
on the Occasion (As he was a man of some Consequence) and
do Everything in my power to promote the good of his Majestys
Indian Intrest amoungst those Nations, and at As Small an
Expence as the nature of the service will admit.
I am with great Esteem and regard your
Excellencys Most
Obedient Servant
To His Excellency
Major General Monckton
indorsed:
Publick Letter that passed
between G. C. and General
Stanwix, Monckton, Amhurst
& Gage and
Sr. Wm. Johnston
Seven Years' War 319
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
A. L. S.1
Fort Niagra July 26th. 1761 —
Dear Sir/
I arrived here in one of the Vessels two days ago, left my Boats
behind in ye. Wood Creek near Fort Stanwix, and now wait
for their, & Major Gladwin of the Light Infantrys coming up, it
will take them a Week to get over all the Boats & things they
have with them, when they arrive I shall make all the Haste
possible. Major Gladwin, with 300 Light Infantry is going to
explore the Lakes Huron & Mitchigan, & to see the Severall
Posts garrisoned which are Surrendered to us by the Capitula-
tion of Canada, it will be proper for You to apprise the Indians
thereabouts, and at Detroit of his comeing with me for that
purpose, so as to prevent any uneasiness, or Suspicions among
them there are two Vessels building in Lake Erie for exploring
them two Lakes this Season if time will admit it. there [
a Blockhouse to be built at Sandusky by the Gene[rals] order,
which I fancy will not be agreable to the Indians. I hope You
will have Succeeded in bringing along a few Cheifs of each
Nation we talked of to Detroit, where I expect to be in less than
three Weeks, I shall not be able to go by ye. way of Sandusky,
as they tell me it will be greatly out of my road, so make the
best of your way to Detroit, where, Should you arrive before
me, I hope you will be able to Assemble the Head Men of the
Severall Nations liveing near that placce, again I come. — You
will have been informed no doubt at Fort Pitt, of the behaviour
of the 2 Chenusfsio] [Am]bassadors, sent by their Nation
to Detroit, in order to prevail with them, and as many other na-
tions as they could, to take up the Hatchet agst. the English: as
their Plott is discovered, I fancy they will now drop it, the
behaviour of ye. Wiandotts on the occasion is verry commendable,
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection.
2 Brackets indicate where part of the manuscript is missing.
320 Sir William Johnson Papers
and entitles them to our particular notice. — as I have thoughts
of going b[ack] by way of Pittsborough, I should be glad
you would [ ] such measures, as may facilitate the Journey.
I have | ] with the Onondagaes at Osswego, where all of their
Cheifs were mett, and after acquainting them with [n>/ia*] had
heard of the Chenussio Inds. Villainy, they declared they had no
hand in it, nor knew the least of such a Design; that, if such
Villainy was intended, it must have been concerted by the Senecas
themselves, w*1. I am apt to beleive is ye. case. I beleive it will
be more convenient, for me to lodge in one of the French Houses,
than in the Fort, because there will be Inds. constantly about me,
and that I would not choose to have in the Fort, at least at this
time. You may talk to Cap*. Campbel abl. it ; & He and You will
be so good, as to choose out a proper place for me. — I wish
You Well
and am
Sir
Your verry Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
George Croghan Esqr.
INDORSED:
Letter Sr. W. Johnson
to Geo Croghan
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
For Niagra, July 29lK 1761.
Sir:
Altho I did myself the honour of writeing your excellency
the 24th. Ins1.2 by Captn. Butler, I would not let slip so favour-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. A copy of this letter,
dated July 30, 1761, from the Johnson manuscripts, later destroyed by
fire, was printed in W. L. Stone, Life of Johnson, 2:145-47.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:510-13.
A. Gtllcftw lo cwnmuDlola with the f it«rtor work*.
B IJtkt (Hiurlo BmUoh.
C. Barrack., mofw %bA *<*<««• of tt»» ol.l fort. n.Tm . »-« Tr-i
D. Kim" •- LAC ON TARIO .
K. B««ioo «t the Q»te of »e Five N»<!oo».
!. B«rl«rt I »0»rf of 5 jtbdk.
' R. ArK>ih**r tlart»et b»tt*ry of 5 jr«ti».
4. ImhAD bttt*.
PLAN OF FORT NIAGARA
Taken from that of M. Pouchot, the builder. In
Documents Relating to Colonial History of the State of
New York, X: 976.
Seven Years' War 321
able an opertunity as this of Coll. Eyre's return to inform you
that since my last, I had a conference with severall Cheifs of the
Chippaway Nation & some Mississageys to whom I expressed
my satisfaction at the good character I had here received of them,
and after I had communicated the intention of my Journey, rec-
ommended it to them to continue to deserve our freindship and
protection, which was so essential to their own Interest, desired
them to send some of their Sachims to be present at the generall
Meeting at Detroit, who might be able to acquaint their Nations
with what might pass there and inform them of the mutual en-
gagements entered into at said Meeting by the Severall Nations
of Indians, & us. and concluded with promising to use all my
endeavours for the better regulating of Trade, and with assureing
them of his Majesty's freindship & protection so long as their
conduct entitled them to it. then the Cheif of the Chippaways
returned many thanks for what I had said, and after smoaking
out of one Pipe together, according to their Custom on the like
occasion the smoake of which, they said, would ascend so high
as to be seen by all the Nations over the Lakes. — they then begged
I would consider their necessitys, haveing scarcely cloaths to
cover them, not being able to trade, as they were debarred the
liberty of buying powder for hunting, and then ended wth. re-
questing they might be allowed a little provisions. I have received
a verry good character from the Commanding officer, and everry
one else here of these Indian's behaviour, and am convinced they
are not concerned in any schemes against us. I therefore intend
giveing them a little cloathing &ca, which will be of service I
plainly discover an universal Jealousy and uneasiness appear
amongst those of every Nation, on accu. of the hasty Steps they
look upon it we are taking towards getting possession of their
severall Countrys, which uneasiness I am certain, will never sub-
side whilst we encroach within the Limits, which Your Excellency
may recollect have been actually put under the Kings protection
in the year 1 726, and continued to them by him & his successors,
as well as positive orders sent to the Gouvernors of New York
&ca by his late Majesty not to suffer any of his Subjects settleing
322 Sir William Johnson Papers
thereon with which they were then made acquainted. Which
Your Excellency in your speech of the 22d. April 1 760 (delivered
to them by Brigdr. General Monkton) was pleased to promise
to secure to them and to prevent any Person whatsoever from
settling, or even hunting theron but that it should remain their
absolute property. I Judged it necessary to remind your Excel-
lency thereof, as the other day on my rideing to where the Vessel
is building, I found some Carpenters at work, finishing a large
house for one Sterling, near the Falls, and have since heard
others are shortly to be built thereabouts, as this must greatly add
to the Indians' discontent, being on the Carrying place, & within
the verry Limits, which by their own agreement, they themselves
are not allowed to dispose of. I should be glad to know whether
I can acquaint the Indians that those People will be ordered to
remove, or not, and hope by yr. Excellencys answer to be able
to Satisfie them on that Head. — I am also apprehensive the
erecting a Post or Blockhouse now at Sandusky will likewise
greatly alarm them, & could wish that I had been time enough
at Detroit, in order to reconcile them to our establishing our-
selves there.
Majors Walters & Gladwin haveing advised with me on the
Sending some Men to reinforce Cap'. Campbell, as it must be
too late to wait for his requisition thereof, to garrison the severall
Posts this Year which your Excellency intends. We are of opinion
that there should be 2 Subalterns & 60 Men sent thither as soon
as may be, they have received their orders accordingly. —
I yesterday dispatched a Boat to Sandusky, with a letter to
Mr. Croghan, with orders imediately on its arrival there, to pro-
ceed with the Indians to Detroit, as I cannot at present delay my
Journey by calling at a place so much out of my Rout. I have
also by the same opertunity wrote Captn. Campbell to inform
him of my being so far on my way, and to apprise ye. Indians in
that quarter of Major Gladwins coming with some Troops, the
appearance of which might otherwise alarm them. My Battoes
with the Presents &ca. are not yet arrived, but as I may now
Seven Years' War 323
hourly expect them, hope to be enabled to sett out from hence
as soon as Major Gladwin or Sooner.
I have the honour to be with the
greatest respect
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
and most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
General Amherst
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Cop])1
Fort Niagara, August 9, 1 761.
I take this opportunity by Mons. Desonie2 going to Montreal
of letting you know that I am detained here these 1 7 days wait-
ing for my Battoes, which I left in the Wood Creek, the 14th
ult. and never heard of them since but hourly expect them. When
they arrive I shall proceed immediately for Detroit in order to
hold a meeting with all the Indians in that Quarter and settle
matters with them on the best and most permanent footing I can
and regulate the trade there, here and at every Post where trade
is carried on with the Indians which Gen. Amherst approves of.
I think all who trade from that country or Canada to Michil-
macanac etc, should have passes from you in my name as it is
entirely belonging to my branch, by the words of my commission,
which runs thus, 'To hold, exercise and enjoy the said office
and employment with the several respective salaries, perquisites
and advantages during our pleasures."
However if Mr. Gage would make a point of it, and insist on
his giving them, I would not at present dispute it. As I am uncertain
1 Copy made by former editor of Johnson Papers; present location of
Ms not ascertained.
2 Des Onie'. See Johnson Papers, 3:546.
324 Sir William Johnson Papers
how long I may continue to act, having wrote home twice to be
excused the service.
There were some time last month Seneca or rather Chenussios
messengers at Detroit with a war belt sent by some of the little
towns near the Ohio, as it said, to try to engage the Hurons
and Ottawas to join them against the English, but the Hurons
and the others behaved very well on the occasion and absolutely
refused having anything to do in so mad and unnatural a scheme.
They even informed the commanding officer of Detroit of it and
in the presence of the two Senecas Ambassador delivered him also
that war belt which he has since sent to the General and me.
As their plot is discovered and I going there, it will, I fancy, end
in nothing. I am this day to have the Senecas and Chenussios
answer to a most severe speech I made them yesterday on the
occasion and wish I may have time to send it to you.
I have had some meetings here with the Chippawas, Missis-
saugas and others which behave extremely well and seem very
happy and friendly to us. On my coming to this place I had
conferences with the Oneidas, Tuscaroras and Onondagas who
assured me they knew nothing of any design against or intention
to hurt the English, so that I am apt to think it arises from
Chevalier Joelicoeur's friends living beyond Chenussio, for his
Indian son was one of the two who went with the belt to Detroit
and made use of his father's name several times in the speech
intimating as if it was his plan and device. On my arrival at
Detroit I expect it will subside. You may, if found necessary
acquaint the Indians there of it, and let them know how the
villainous plot was rejected by those Indians who were lately our
enemies and looked upon by them in a most unnatural and rebel-
lious light, for which I shall take all the more notice of all them
Nations and the less of them who ought to be more entitled to
our favor than any other.
You may judge how uneasy I must be, being detained here so
long, when I want so much to be at home. My going on this
tour is a vast hindrance to my settling my land and improvement.
Seven Years War 325
Johnny1 and Guy Johnson are all the company I have with me.
They are both well and desire to be remembered to you and
Messers. Welles and Wade who I hope are doing well and
enjoy their health.
Major Gladwin who goes to explore the Lakes is getting over
the carrying place here these 16 days past. He will be ready
to proceed to Detroit in about two or three days more.
I hope everything is settled with regard to your purchase
as I left money and directions with Ferrall Wade to answer your
draft for the purpose. It will give me pleasure to hear of your
welfare and genteel economy, as I wish you well and am
William Johnson
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy2
[Sept. 25-Oct. 3, 1761]
25 Sep'. 1761
Arrivd at Miamis the Indians expecting great Presents by
me as they were not called to the Council at Detroit; by the
Advice of Ll. Butler & the Interpreter I call'd a Council the
next Day at which after given the 3 Chiefs of the Miamis 3
Strings of Wampum, I informed them that they were expected
at the meeting at Detroit & that I was surprizd they did not go
there, that I had brought them no Presents but that those I now
gave them I made bold to do without any Orders & told them I
was sent amongst them by my Master to stay amongst them &
to keep up a strict friendship with them. And that I should
take the greatest Care that my Men did nothing to give them
uneasiness & that I expected on their Part they would do the same
& if at any time their Young Men should get drunk they would
use their utmost Endeavours to keep them from coming to the
Fort or making any Disturbance.
1 John Johnson, son of Sir William Johnson.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
326 Sir William Johnson Papers
2d,y I inform them that the General heard they had some
English Prisoners still amongst them & had orderd
me to demand them & that I hopd they would readily
give them up, otherwise that I must be obligd to inform
the General of their Refusal.
3dly That if any thing at Present or whilst I continued
amongst them did or should give them uneasiness desird
they would inform me of it & I would do every thing
in my Power to make things easy & Pleasant to them
4th,y I inform them of the good News I had from Carolina
& likewise that a strong Party was gone to Possession of
Michillamackina & Bay1 & Sl. Joseph & that I believd
a strong Party of the Light Infantry would Winter
at Detroit, & then gave them the Presents as on
the other side (viz)
2 fine Shirts
3 Plain D°
4 English Blankets
2 Stroud d°
5 pr. Leggins
60 Barrs Lead
3 Thousand Wampum
2 Caggs Powder
2 lb Vermillion
1 3 lb Tobacco
4 Gallons Rum
30 Gun flints
1 Stroud [for]\ .
t ni • ci ■ . r tor their Children
Z Plain bhirts
5 Cuttoe Knives
In the Afternoon the Chiefs returnd & gave me 3 Strings of
Wampum one of which they informd me was to Open my Ears
& to clear my heart of any ill impressions I might still Harbour
1 La Baye, now Green Bay, in Wisconsin.
Seven Years' War 327
of them; that it was true they had the french formerly for their
Brethren but that we had conquerd them, & that they were
now my Brothers & that if any other Nation should at any time
disturbe our Road that they would make it plain & Easy to us.
that they found the English had some Pity for them & that they
took the Present very kindly, but would be very glad if I would
give another Cag of Powder as what I had given them would
not be a Handful a man & likewise a little more Rum which I
did as they begd very earnestly for it: as see last Ace1.
In Regard of the Prisoners they told me they could do nothing
in it as they were in the Place of others which we had kill'd but
that they would do all in their Power to Persuade their Masters
to give them up & then finish'd their Speech with a Promise to
bring me Plenty of Meat for the Garrison.
Sep'. 27*. 1761
The 3 Miami Chiefs came with a String of Wampum & brought
4 Squaws with Corn & Pumkins as a Present for me & to desire
I would [take] their sick men & their Wives & Children which
they left behind when they went a Hunting into my Care & hopd
as I had been so good to them that I would give them a few
things to cloath their Children. I gave them
1 Stroud
2 plain Shirts
2 Doz Needles
Thread
Sep'. 28 —
The Chief of the Oataawas with 1 5 Warriours brought me a
String of Wampum & desird I would take their Case into Con-
sideration & give them a little Powder & Ball & well as the
Miamis or else that I would give them Credit on the Merchant
for some & that they would pay for it very faithfully in Spring.
I told them that their Chiefs were assemblyd at Detroit to
receive Presents when I left it therefore could give them nothing :
but rather then they should want as Ll. Butler informd me they
328 Sir William Johnson Papers
had brought a great deal of Venison for the use of the Garrison
all Winter & had behavd remarkably well I would make free
to Advance them
15 lb Powder
32 Barrs Lead
2 English Blankets
1 lb. Vermillion
1 Gall". Rum
Sep'. 29.
The Old King came & told me he was going a Hunting, but
was afraid he should be Strav'd with Cold if I had not Compassion
on him. & likewise desire I would take some Method to get
his young mens Arms mended which I ashurd him of & as he
had been at a good deal of trouble to keep his young Men
within Bounds when in Liquor gave him
1 English Blanket
1 Shirt
1 Bottle Rum
Sep'. 29.
This Day arrivd 1 Chief of the Shawnese with nine warriours
from a Scout brought in 2 Prisoners & a Scalp which they gave
me as likewise a String of Wampum & made great Complaints
in the Name of all the Indians of the dearness of the Merchants
Goods & the low Price that was set on their Furrs so that it was
almost impossible they could live
I told them the Merchant was gone to Detroit that his Clerk
Inform'd me he had Sr. Wm. Johnsons instructions1 in Regard of
the Price of Indian Good*: with him therefore could say nothing
to that Article till he returned, but if he had imposd on them I
would see them righted in the Strictest Manner, but as for giving
them Credit it was not in my Power but when the Merchant arrivd
1 See Indian Trade Regulations at Miami, Johnson Papers, 3:533.
Seven Years War 329
I would do all I could to get him to advance them a little Powder
& ball & gave
1 GallnRum
1 Roll Tobacco
Oct. 1st.
Bought a Woman Prisoner from the Indians who usd her very
barbarously but was obligd to give excessive dear for her as the
family she stay'd with had 2 Young men kill'd by ye English this
War & she stay'd in their Place, L* Butler & Mr Taafe offerd
50 Doll5 for her in Spring but it was refus'd I gave
£
15 lb Powder 5.12.6
8 Bars lead 15 -
1 Blanket 1 . 2.6
1 Petticoat 0. 1 5 -
1 pr Leggins 0. 1 5 —
1 Shirt 0.15--
Ocf. 3^
David Lutts Soldier in the Royal Americans killd a very
fine Indian horse by throwing his Bayonet at him, the horse
belonged to the Oataawas, it made a great Disturbance the
Indian [said] they would kill every horse & Cow belonging to
the fort if I did not give them another Horse immediately, but
with a great deal of trouble I made it up with giving them a Gallon
of Rum 2 English Blankets 2 lb Powder & 4 lb Ball & was
likewise obliged to promise them the first horse I could get & [to
give] I gave Lutts 100 Lashes for Disobedience of orders.
330 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson Novbr. 5th. 1761.
Sir
I have the honour to acquaint you that I arrived here from the
Detroit on Saturday last, after a tedious Journey of Six Weeks,
having left that place on ye. 1 8th. of Septbr. last —
it is with great satisfaction I now inform your Excellency that
I have left the Westeren Indians extremely well disposed towards
the English, and I am of opinion that matters are settled on so
stable a foundation there, that unless greatly Irritated thereto,
they will never break the Peace established with them, and there
now only remains to compleat everry thing, by calling down the
Six Nations to a meeting, and settleing all matters with them,
which I doubt not being readily able to do, and will imediately
sett about it, if your Excellency approves of it. —
The particulars of my proceedings since leaveing Home, and of
the severall Conferrences which I had on my Journey, as also that
of the generall Meeting with the Western Confederacy oxa. at
Detroit, being verry long I cannot be able to transmit them for
some time. I should therefore be glad to know whether Your
Excellency would choose those at the Meeting at ye. Detroit alone,
before the rest are made up. —
I have detained Lieu1. Johnson2 who is now makeing up, and
recording the proceedings, he haveing acted in yl. capacity dure-
ing the Summer, in the absence of my Secretary, whose bad State
of health prevented his attending me, and hope Your Excellency
may not have any objection thereto. —
I herewith inclose Your Excellency letters from Cap1. Campbell
Commands, at the Detroit, with an Ace", of expences, which I am
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. Printed in part in
Johnson Papers, 3:559.
2 Guy Johnson.
Seven Years' War 331
of opinion, the remoteness of his garrison, and state of Affairs
at that time rendered them in a great measure necessary. —
I return your Excellency thanks for the Coppy of the confer-
ences at Easton. Mr. Hamilton has not as yet sent me any Coppys
so that I should otherwise have been an entire Stranger to ye.
proceedings. I find ye Indians complaints therein contained, are
much of a peice with those made to me, and run cheifly on the
dearness of Goods, & Scarcity of Amunition. but I hope the
Regulations I have made, and left at the Posts, will be a means
of makeing them easy with regard to ye. prices of Goods &
Cloathing, which they cannot gett Skins, or firrs to purchase
without the latter.
As Soon as all the proceedings, or such part as Your Excellency
may choose can be made ready for your perusal they shall be
imediately transmitted to you and I flatter myself that on inspec-
tion, they will appear to your Excellencys Satisfaction, than
which, nothing will give me greater pleasure.
haveing the honour to be
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
PS. I should be glad Your
Excellency would give me an Order
for some Amunition, & provision,
as I have not an ounce of either
in Store. —
His Excellency
SR. Jeffery Amherst, Knl. of the Bath
332 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM WILLIAM WALTERS
■TX. Li. vj.
Niagara 11 lh. November 1761
Dear Sir
I hope this will find You Safe Arrived at whome2 and that You
Enjoy Your Health —
I am to acquaint You that old belt3 with four chiefs of the
six nations with about ninety other Indians came here the 9th.
Instant and Delivered me three Belts of Wampum with five
Strings; they told me they came to renew their Brotherly friend-
ship telling me they was very poor as to ammunition, Clothing &
provisions, I told them that it was my case at present, but that I
was glad to See them & Should do Every thing in my power for
them, I gave them a Little ammunition and a Smale Quantaty of
provisions being very Scant of that article, in one Speech they
wanted Some Clothing for their women but I had it not in my
power to give them any they brought a few skins which is usual
at their meetings which I prevailed on them to take a way and
purchase a Blanket or two from the Traders with, I also would
have them take their wampum teling them it had cost them
money at the same time told them I had great Confidence in them
and Should always receive them as faithfull good Brothers without
any obligation to their Cost, but they Insisted on Leaving their
Wampum & went a way very well Satisfied, old belt desired
me to acquaint our good Brother Sir William Johnson that
they had been with their Brother at Niagara, they want the
Gun Smith very much to Repair their Arms & Hatchets —
The Indian Chiefs told me they was on their way to meet you
here in the Summer but was taken sick on the Road —
the Little Indian that went with You to the Detroit arrived
here Yesterday — old belt brought two horses which was taken
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Home.
3 A Seneca sachem.
Seven Years' War 333
from us in the beginning of the Summer The Indians has taken
two others from us about five week agon —
Mr. Deconey1 gave the Indian Chiefs six gallons Rum three
Blankets three Shirts three pair Stocking & three Caps he tells
me it is agreeable to your Desire I beg pardon for troubling
you with this Long Letter, I beg my Complements to Captn.
Johnson & to Mr. Johnson —
I am Dear Sir
Your most obedient
Humble Servant
WM. Walters
Sir William Johnson
INDORSED:2
Niagra 1 1th. Novbr. 1761
Letter from Majr. Walters
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Castle Cumberland Novb'. 22d 1761 —
Sir/
Since I wrote you a few days ago I received Yours by Mr.
Wade together wlh. yr. Journal, which when I have time to
peruse shall lay by safe ; —
I would have you buy Bourlemarques Box, or Shaveing Case
if you think it good, or worth the Money. & Send it by the first
Safe opertunity. —
If you have finished correcting the Indian Prayer Book pray
send it me that I may have a parcel printed soon.
When I left Canada last Year, I put into the care of a
1 Probably meant for De Couagne.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In Canadian Archives, Miscellaneous Papers, 1714-1790, Claus
Papers, W. Vol. 14.
334 Sir William Johnson Papers
Frenchman who lived next to my encampment, 10 or twelve
Casks of Ball, Shot, & Lead, which I think I told You to deliver
to Gen1. Gages order, and get me an order for so much at Albany,
I shall be glad to know what was done in it, and if to be done to
have an order for so much at Albany.
I have not looked at, nor even had time to open, [or look a0
yr. Acctts. being verry busy drawing out my proceedings this past
Summer, for the press, as well as for the Board of Trades, &
General Amhersts inspection, when done shall settle them. — I
shall be glad to see You this Winter, that I may settle all matters
relative to the management of the Indns. in that Quarter with you,
having it more in my power now to Settle Indian Affairs on one
uniform Plan than ever, as I now know the disposition of ye.
Northeren & Westeren Indians from what has passed between
Me & them this Year. —
My compliments to Coll°. Haldimand, & all freinds there,
I am Yr. Welwisher
& Humble Servant
\VM. Johnson
[Enclosure]
You may apply to Gen1. Gage for leave wth. propriety as
under his Command as a Military Off1"., and You have mine as
a Civil Offr., by my letter wch. incloses this. — I do not think
Gen1. Amherst will be at Alb?, the ensueing Winter & if he was,
I dont see it improper your comeing down, on Gen1. Gages
permiss11. —
PS : You may shew, or tell Gage
what I write You in ye. paragraph
of my letter concerning Indian Affairs, yl. is ye. last Paragraph
INDORSED :
Sr. Wm. Johnsons Lettre
22J.Nov. 1761.
Seven Years' War 335
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Fort Ceorge Nov 22nd 1761.
Dear Sir
Last night I received your favour of the 6th2 which gave me the
great pleasure of knowing that you are return'd safe from your
tedious journey, & that you had succeeded in the affairs you went
upon. On which I heartily congratulate you. It will give me the
greatest pleasure to have a more particular account of this new
addition to the many signal Services you have don your Country.
I hope Sir you :!o not imagine that your disappointment as to
the Lands the Indians have given you is in any shape owing to my
negligence of what concerns you. It would have given me the
greatest pleasure to have convinced you of the great regard &
esteem I have at all times retain'd for you, and of the high value
I put on the friendship with which you do me honour You know
that in the grant of Lands the Council have a negative upon me,
& while I thought that I could not have their concurrence, I thought
it best to delay to a more favourable opportunity which I hope
may now happen on your proposals by Mr Banyar. It is cer-
tainly my interest as well as Inclination to forward your affair
as much as in my power. As to the Sheriff of Albany's office, I
hope you are satisfyed that General Amherst had laid me under a
restraint from which I could not free myself.
Mr Barclay told me that he was willing to part with the land
which he has near the Mohawk Castle for the use of a Minister
for the Mohawks provided he have the money repaid him which
it cost him, & to prevent mistakes he would give his proposals in
writing, which he has not don. After I heard you was gon on your
journey I thought it best to delay pressing him till your return. I
shall now very soon put him in mind of it.
1 Printed in Collections of Nerv York Historical Society, 1876,
Colden Papers, p. 1 30.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:560-62.
336 Sir William Johnson Papers
It may be best for you to write the informations you have
received of Urie Clock's1 behaviour in respect to the Indians land
in a letter by itself with what you desire to have done, that I
may lay it before the Council for their advice and concurrence,
as I really think it a matter of consequence in which they have
had great injustice don them, & would gladly do everything in my
power for their reliefe. As your Letter this time is on private
affairs, I think it improper to lay it before the Council, & it is
not full enough to form any legal proceedings on it, neither do
I as yet conceive what method may be the most effectual for their
releif.
I expect the Packet will sail before the end of this week, and
as I am busy in my Letters to England and prepareing for the meet-
ing of the Assembly I am pretty much hurried for I seldom can
prevent being interrupted by people's comeing on their private
business.
Be assured that nothing can give me more satisfaction &
pleasure than to be esteemed by you as I really am Sir your
Sincere friend & most obedient Servant
TO CADWALLADER COLDEN
/l.L.O.
Fort Johnson Decbr. 8ih. 1761 —
Sir/
I was favoured with yours of the 22d. Ult°.3 the other day
wherein You express a desire to be more particularly informed of
my late transactions, with which I shall acquaint you at large as
soon as my present hurry of business is a little over. —
I have already wrote You concerning Ury, or George Klock of
Canajohare, and am now to inform You, that dureing my absence
this Year, he has been the occasion of much disturbance and
1 George (Ury) Klock.
2 In Massachusetts Historical Society.
3 See ante p. 335.
Seven Years' War 337
uneasiness amongst the Indians, as well as Inhabitants of that
neighbourhood, He haveing purchased some Lands last Winter
from Mr. Livingston, which has [keen] always been looked upon,
and claimed by the Indians of Conajohary as their property, in
so much that the Pattentees thereof, never attempted to divide it,
or publickly own the Land theirs well knowing the Justice of the
Indians right thereto, which one of the Pattentees confessed to me,
and of which I have been informed by sevefall other persons,
as well, as of the extraordinary manner mad use of, to describe the
Bounds, by the late Mr. Collins1 of Albany. — in the Year 1 754
when ye. Congress was held at Albany, the Conajohare Inds. with
Hendrick their Cheif made a formal complaint to the then Lieu1.
Govr. Delancey of the unjust manner, by which this land had been
taken up or Pattented, entreating him to see Justice done to them
therein. — He informed them, that he had spoke to the Heirs of
Mr. Livingston, who, verry generously, (in the presence of him,
& the Commisrs. from the Severall Governments then assembled
in the Citty Hall at Albany) offered to give up their share of
Said Land, for the prevention of Disputes, but that some of the
Heirs not being yet at age prevented the concurrence of the whole.
Since that time, the Tenants then living on Said Lands, have
duely paid their Rents to the Indians of that Castle, without
any molestation interruption or demand for the same, by Mr.
Livingston or any Person whatsoever.
Now Klock haveing lately given warning to those tenants
liveing on that land, and forbidding them with threats from
paying the rent to the Indians or plowing or sowing thereon, but
to quit the same, has greatly alarmed ye. Inds. who thereupon have
had severall consultations, and have made application to me,
representing the loss they must sustain thereby, and their firm
determination to assert their property and to maintain these Tenants
in the possession thereof, adding that it hath been, and is still
the constant practice of Klock (notwithstanding the Principall
Inds., and the majority of the rest have frequently warned him
Edward Collins who surveyed the patent — the moonlight survey.
338 Sir William Johnson Papers
against it) to endeavour to keep the most idle and drunken of their
People in liquor, & to take advantage thereof, by then persuadeing
them to sign Papers, which if complied with must deprive them
and the rest of their property, and render the whole a considerable
charge to the Government as they could not subsist without their
planting grounds, but be necessitated to live upon the Publick.
that he has likewise frequent1?, called, and held private meetings
with the Indians, at which, he and some others of ye. Germans
liveing in that quarter, have endeavoured by false tales, & artfull
insinuating to create differences, and misunderstandings, between
the Army Inhabitants and Indians, & thereby overset, and render
ineffectual the pains I have been at, to promote a Union amongst
them — they are likewise highly displeased with his haveing
falsely accused them to the severall Generals as Indns. who had
been concerned in many of the late depredations, & murders
committed by the Enemy, and thereupon applying for men to
protect yl. Country agst. them, dureing the absence of the Army;
a proceeding so verry villainous and so injurious to a People
who have severely felt the effect of their Steady Attachment to
our Interest dureing the War, by a considerable dimunition of
their Numbers, cannot fail of greatly astonishing them, and
exasperating them against the Author of such a falsehood, but
being now employed in hunting, they are thereby prevented
from representing the whole in a Publick Meeting to me, which
they are determined to do on their return Home, then to demand
redress for the same, and to insist on our imediately pu[tting]
a Stop to his proceedings, and protecting them in the lawfull
possession of their property, agreable to the repeated assureances
given them by the Severall Generals and myself, as I have
always known this Klock for a verry dangerous Man, and one who
had by his proceedings in 1 753, and 54 verry near brought on a
generall quarrel between the Inhabitants & Indians in these parts,
which with great difficulty was made up, and may be remembered
by You & ye. Gentlemen of the Council at that time, and being
verry apprehensive that unless some effectual measures be imediate-
ly taken to put a stop to his present (in my opinion illegall)
Seven Years' War 339
proceedings, it may be productive of verry fatal consequences,
and which it may not then be in my power to prevent. I therefore
thought it necessarry to lay the same before you, as well to
represent the necessity there is for doing something therein, as to
be favoured with your opinion concerning the same, which it will
be proper I should be informed of before they return from hunting.
I have nothing further at present to add, but to assure You
I am with all due respect
Sir
Your most obedient,
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
The H0NRBLE. CADWALLADER CoLDEN
Lieu1. Governour of New York
INDORSED:
Sr Wm. Johnson to Ll. Gov. Colden
^December 1761
Letter from Sir Wm. Johnson
complaining of the Conduct of
Georg Klock in turning off
Tenants setled on Lands near
the Connajoharie Castle under
the Title & Claim of the Indians
23 December 1761 : Read in
Council & referred to a
Committee.
1 From this point in Colden's hand.
340 Sir William Johnson Papers
ROYAL INSTRUCTIONS TO GOVERNOR MONCKTON
Contemporary Copy1
[Dec. 9, 1761]
Sir William Johnson received2 from the \J. Governor a Copy
of his Majestys Instructions,3 of which the following is like-
wise a Copy —
George R. Additional Instruction for our Trusty and Well
beloved Robert Monckton Esq1-, our Captain Gen-
eral and Governor in Chief of our Province of
New York and the territories depending thereon
in North America; and in his Absence to our Lieu-
tenant Governor or Commander in Chief of our
said Province for the time being. Given at our
Court at Sl. James's the Ninth day of December
1 761 , in the second year of our Reign —
Whereas the peace and Security of our Colonies and Planta-
tions upon the Continent of North America, does greatly depend
upon the amity and Alliance of the several Nations, or Tribes
of Indians, bordering upon the said Colonies, and upon a just
and faithfull observance of those Treatys and Compacts, which
have been heretofore Solemnly entered into with the said Indians,
by our Royal Predecessors Kings and Queens of this Realm.
And Whereas notwithstanding the repeated Instructions which
have been from time to time given by our late Royal Grandfather,
to the Governors of our several Colonies upon this Head, the
said Indians have made and do still continue to make great Com-
plaints, that Settlements have been made and possession taken of
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Received March 11,1 762.
3 See also Report of the Lords of Trade on the Instructions to Governor
Monckton, in Docs. Rel. Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:463-64; Lords of Trade
to Lieutenant Governor Colden, in ibid., 7:485; and Lieutenant Governor
Colden to the Lords of Trade, in ibid., 7:486-87.
Seven Years War 341
Lands, the property of which, they have by Treaties reserved to
themselves, by Persons claiming the said Lands under pretence
of Deeds of Sale and Conveyance, illegally, fraudulently and
surreptitiously obtained of the said Indians; And Whereas it
has likewise been represented unto us, that some of our Governors
or other Chief Officers of our said Colonies, regardless of the
duty they owe to us, and of the Welfare and Security of our
Colonies, have countenanced such unjust Claims and pretentions
by passing Grants of the Lands so pretended to have been pur-
chased of the Indians. We therefore taking this matter into our
Royal Consideration, as also the fatal Effects, which would
attend a Discontent amongst the Indians, in the present Situation
of affairs, and being determined upon all occasions to support and
protect the said Indians, in their just Rights and Possessions, and
to keep inviolable the Treaties and Compacts which have been
entered into with them Do hereby strictly enjoyn and command,
that neither yourself nor any Lieutenant Governor, President of
the Council or Commander in Chief of our said Province of New
York, do upon any pretence whatsoever, upon pain of our highest
Displeasure, and of being forthwith removed from your or his
Office, pass any Grant or Grants to any person whatever, of
any Lands within or adjacent to the Territories possessed or
occupied by the said Indians, or the property or possession of which
has at any time been reserved, to or claimed by them; And it is
our further Will and pleasure that you do publish a Proclamation,
in our Name Strictly enjoyning and requiring all persons what-
ever, who may either willfully or inadvertently have seated them-
selves upon any Lands so reserved to, or claimed by the said
Indians, without any lawfull Authority for so doing, forthwith to
remove therefrom. And in case you shall find upon strict enquiry
to be made for that purpose, that any Person or Persons do
Claim to hold or possess any Lands within our said Province, upon
pretence of purchases made of the said Indians, without a proper
License first had and obtained either from us or any of our Royal
Predecessors, or any persons acting under our or their Authority,
you are forthwith to cause a prosecution to be carried on against
342 Sir William Johnson Papers
such person or persons who shall have made such fraudulent
purchases, to the end, that the Land may be recovered by a
due Course of Law — And Whereas the wholesome Laws, which
have at different times been passed in several of our said Colonies,
and the Instructions which have been given by our Royal
predecessors, for restraining persons from purchasing Lands of the
Indians, without a License for the purpose, and for regulating the
proceedings upon such purchases, have not been duly observed ; It
is therefore Our Express will and pleasure, that when any applica-
tions shall be made to you, for License to purchase Lands of the
Indians, you do forbear to grant such license until you shall have
first transmitted to us, by our Commissioner for Trade and planta-
tions, the particulars of such applications, as well in respect to
the Situation, as the Extent of the Lands so proposed to be pur-
chased, and shall have received our further directions therein.
And it is our further Will and pleasure, that you do forthwith
cause these our Instructions to you to be made public, not only
within all parts of our said province Inhabited by our Subjects,
but also amongst the several Tribes of Indians, living within the
same, to the End that our Royal Will and pleasure in the premises
may be known, and that the Indians may be apprised of our deter-
mined Resolution to support them, in their just rights, and invio-
lably to observe our Engagements with them —
G. R.—
A true Copy of the Original Examd. by
Gw Banyar D Secry
Entred Verbatim from the Copy aforesaid
G. Johnson Act. Sec. Ind. Affrs.
C /. i
<
4}
v V Y /
v(> iK ^ "V
4
yy
Seven Years' War 343
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 11th- December 1761.
Sir,
I Enclose You Copies of Some Papers2 delivered to me by Ll.
Governor Colden, Regarding the Captivity of Several of His
Majesty's Subjects, amongst a Tribe of the Delaware Indians;
and as the Ll. Governor Laid those Papers before me, with a
Request to take Some Effectual method for Recovering those
Unhappy Captives; I acquainted him that as You were to have
a Meeting with the Several Tribes of Indians, in Order to Lay
Your Transactions at the Detroit &ca. before them, I Should
transmit Copies of those papers to You, that You might take
Such measures, as might appear most Conducive for obtaining
the Liberties of those miserable objects, Still remaining in the
hands of the Indians. —
I am persuaded I need not Use any Arguments to Induce You
to Use Every method in Your power, for Discovering the Truth of
What is Set forth in these papers, and for Recovering Such of
the King's Subjects as appear to be Still Concealed by that, or
any other Tribe of Indians in Your Department. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson Baronet.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38. Copy also in Canadian
Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 A Conference With Delawares, Nov. 16-17, 1761, Johnson Papers,
3:566, was probably the enclosure, as see Colden to Johnson, Dec. 13,
1761, Johnson Papers, 3:589-91.
344 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.1
Lebanon Decr. 11. 1761 .
Sir.
Last Evening I was informed of an Opportunity by Mr Forscey
of Albany to Acknowledge the Receipt of Your Honf2 by Mr.
Kirtland and, return You My Thanks for it; and also the Kind-
ness and Respect you Shewed him, While he Was With You.
And inform You, that Joseph3 and the two Boys arived here Safe
& Well on ye. 28th of last Month; and are now well and Seem
well pleased, and content, and hitherto behave Well in the School ;
and I see nothing but that they may well answer the Design
proposed.
I Would also inform Your Honour, that I received last Eve-
ning from Secretary Oliver of Boston, the Vote of their General
Assembly, passed in Answer to a Memorial I preferrd, as follows.
'That the Revd Mr. Wheelock the Petitioner be allowed to take
under his Care for one Year, Six Indian Children of the Six
Nations, for Education, Cloathing and Boarding; and that he,
be allowed for that Purpose for Sd Children, or for so many of
them as he shall receive Under his Care, at the Rate of Twelve
Pounds *p Annum each for one Year, out of the Interest of the
Money of Sir Peter Warren's Donation ; He the Said Wheelock
laying before this Government an Accompt of his Disburstments
on said Children, and of the Improvements they May have made
at the End of the Year When he shall Apply for Payment.
Sent up for Concurrance.
James Otis Speaker
In Council Novr. 23. 1761. Read and Concurred
A. Oliver. Secy.
Consented to Fra: BERNARD"
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 See Doc. Hist. N. Y., 4:305-7, Q. 4:197-98.
3 Joseph Brant.
Seven Years' War 345
Your Honr. Sees the Sum allowed is twelve Pounds per Annum
for each, Which as Times are this Way, will not support them,
unless they be Females, and perhaps it Will be expedient to take
some Female from Your Quarter, to be joyned With two Which
I now have, (one from Mr. Brainerd the other of the Mohegan
Tribe) to be educated in all parts of good Housewifery. Tending
a Dary. Spining. the Use their needle &a. as well as Reading
writing &c. Which I have hired proper Gentlewomen of this
Neighbourhood to do, the Girls attending the School at My
House, to be instructed in Writing, one day in Each Week,
and receive Copies in order to write four Lines on each Day
they are Absent, The Necessity of Which, in order to introduce,
the English, or any More decent, and easie manner of Living
among them, Your Honr well understands.
I desire, If Your Honr pleases, You would add six to the
Number Which I expect by Negyes1 and if you think proper let
two of them be Girls [and let them be sent down as soon as May
be], however I shall trust ye. matf. to yr Honrs discretion Your
Honr. will doubtless think it Will be best that they be of as remote
Tribes as may be. as to the Expence of their Journey I shall
wait for your Honrs Demands, and comply therewith, [the Boys
are not Yet out of Bed and J^now nothing of this Opportunity.]
I trust Your Goodness will Pardon the Faults of What I
Write, thus in a Hurry, and Accept Most sincere Duty and
Respect from.
Your Hon" Most Humble and
Most Obedient Servant.
Eleazar Wheelock
P S. I trust your Honr. Will forward their coming as soon as
may be if the Girls cant come in the Winter season, perhaps
there May be a good Opportunity from Albany to Norwich
to the Care of the ReV. Mr. Whitaker by Water next spring.
The Hon,e. Sir William Johnson
1 A Mohawk Indian who entered Wheelock's school August 1 , 1 76 1 .
346 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:
Letter to Sr. William
Johnson Decr. 11. 1 761 .
To send more Children
to partake of Sr. Peter
Warren's donation.
TO DANIEL CLAUS
A. L. S.1
Fort Johnson DecK 12th. 1761
Dear Claus/
Since I wrote you last, have nothing new, but to desire You
would make my Complimls. to Pere Roubard2 of the Abanakis,
tell him I recd. his verry friendly & polite letter, together wth.
one for Captn. Jacobs3 of Stockbridge, wh. I had not time as yet to
deliver to him, they being all on ye Hunt, be so good to make an
apology to him for my not Answering his, on acctl. of the great
hurry I am now in since my arrival from Detroit, Settleing all my
transactions for the Ministry as well as for ye. General, make
him a present from me of ten Pounds York Currency and charge
it. tell him it will be necessary that a few of the Abanakis come
now as Soon as they can, and Settle that affair wth. ye. Stock-
bridge Indians, who expected to have had it over long ago. when
they come let them have a Flag, & a good Pass if you do not
sett out for this part before then, You had better accompany them
to Albany, tell Pere Roubard it would not be agreable to Gen1.
1 In Canadian Archives, Claus Papers, Vol. 1 , M. 104, p. 62.
2 Roubaud.
3 A Stockbridge Indian.
Seven Years' War 347
Amherst that he should accompany them, as he desires. — expect-
ing to see You Soon, I shall add no more than that
I am Yrs. Sincerely
WM. Johnson
All here are well, and
desire to be remembered
to You, & all friends there. -
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 26. Decern': 1761 .
Sir
Having carefully perused Your Proceedings and Conferences
with the Several Tribes of Indians on Your Way to, and at the
Detroit; I am to Assure You of my Entire approbation of the
Whole; and must beg Your Acceptance of my sincere thanks,
for having Executed that Service in so compleat a manner, that
I am hopefull all the good Effects that were Expected from Your
taking that Tour, will be felt not only by his Majesty's Subjects in
those Parts, but by the Neighboring Indian Nations; who, by
following the Advise You have given them, will Secure Peace
& Quiet to themselves, as well as a free & open Trade to Support
their Families. —
The Behavior of the Senecas appears to have been Treacher-
ous; and Kayashota, their Messenger, with the Other whom he
Accuses, if they are not Punished, ought certainly to be marked
in such a manner, as to be Discountenanced at all our Posts; &
be Excluded the Benefit of the Friendly Treatment given to Such
as have Acted uprightly & honestly.
The Instructions You delivered to the Officers who went to the
out Garrisons, are very proper: I Do not find the Ounatonon2
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ouiatonon, Wawiaghtonon, the site of present Lafayette, Indiana.
348 Sir William Johnson Papers
mentioned among the rest; but I Conclude the Officer who Com-
mands at that Post, will be furnished with a Copy of Your Instruc-
tions, that he may Regulate himself accordingly. —
In Looking over Your Disbursements on Account of the
Presents, &ca, for the Indians at the Detroit Meeting, I Confess
the greatness of the Sum Surprizes me, since it is almost Double
what You at first Demanded: Altho' I have no doubt of Your
having Used your utmost Endeavors to be as Oeconomical as You
Judged best for the good of that Service ; yet I am of Opinion that
We must Deal more Sparingly, for the future; for from the Now
Tranquil State of the Country, and the good Regulation You
have put the Trade under, I can See very little Reason for Bribing
the Indians, or Buying their good Behavior, since they have no
Enemy to Molest them, but, on the contrary, Every Encourage-
ment & protection they can Desire for their Trade. —
I Herewith Enclose You a Warrant for the Ballance of Your
Accompt; by which You will See that it amounts to £5:0:1/4
New York Currency more than was Charged by You; the £5.
being thro' mistake of the Addition in the 2d. page of the Accompts
delivered in at Albany ; and the 1 Vi Wrong set down in the
Ballance Carried from these Accompts to those which You last
Sent me : I Have had them Rectifyed, and Granted the Warrant
accordingly. —
I Likewise Send You a Warrant for One Thousand Pounds
Sterling ; On Account for the purchase of the Necessary Presents
for the Six Nations Meeting, & other Expences that may be
Incurred in Your Department, agreable to Your Request. —
I am, with great Truth & Regard,
Sir, &ca.
P. S.
Sir William Johnson, Bar1:
Seven Years' War 349
FROM JAMES JOHNSON
N York 27 deer ]j6i
Sir;
I take the liberty to trouble you with this, in the Name of
the Commissioners for Setling the Acots of General Shirlys Agents.
We find a Charge Against the Crown in the Acco,s exhibited
by these Agents, £2519:2: York Cur. for provisions delivered
by the province of Connecticut to General Shirlys Order, The
Agents produce Us a proof that this Sum was payd or Credited
to General Shirly, and it is alledged that it was payd by him to
You, to bear part of the expence of the Artilery you employd,
If so, Our enquiry properly ends, but in case this Sum was not
payd to you by Mr Shirly, he remains debtor, for it to the Crown.
And we Must take Notice of it in our report.
Youl Oblige Us And enable Us to execute our duty, by
Acquainting Me with what you know in relation to this Affair,
I have the honor to be with respect
Sir
Your Most Ob1 humble Serv1
James Johnson
D Qr M^ General —
INDORSED:2
Decb'. 27* 1 762
Mr. James Johnsons
letter concerning Money
in Mr. Shirleys time.
£ 25 19:2: York Curr-y.
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 In Sir William's hand.
350 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Contemporary Copy1
New York, Fort George, Dec' 27th 1761
Dear Sir
Last Wednesday the soonest I could after I had received
yours2 relating to Klock & the Indian Lands at Conajohare, I
laid it before the Council And it is referred to a Committee to
consider what may be properest to be done — they all seemed
satisfied of the fraudulent practises in that Affair & desirous to do
everything in their power for the relief of the injured Indians, but
as your information was not accompanied with any Affidavits on
which a legal process can be founded they seemed to be at a Loss
in what manner to proceed. For which reason I think it may be
proper for you to procure what Affidavits you can of the frauds
in the original purchase of which I believe David Schuyler & his
Son's if they or any of them be willing can fully inform you and
perhaps some others can. — If this cannot be obtained or even if
it should it may be proper to have a formal Complaint from the
Indians in Writing setting forth all the particulars of the fraud,
& the persons names concerned in it —
As I really believe that the Indians have had great injury
done them by these fraudulent proceedings, you may assure them
of my doing every thing in my power for their relief —
We are now upon the Conclusion of the Sessions of Assembly
which takes up both my time & this Councils, I suspect nothing
can be done in Council on what is now before them till after the
Holydays and indeed that nothing be effectually done till some
Affidavits can be procured and sent down. However I shall not
omit to press them to some resolution to give the Indians Ease at
least for a time. —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 See Johnson to Colden, Nov. 6, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:560, for
additional information.
Seven Years' War 351
The General at my desire has transmitted some papers to you
relating to several prisoners detained by a tribe of fugitive Indians
near Oghquagoe.1 These miserable people I doubt not will have
your Compassionate regard —
I am &ca —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York, 4th. Jan'y. 1762.
Sir,
I Herewith Enclose You a List of the things belonging to the
two Indians who returned lately from Carolina; And, as I
Acquainted You in my last that One of those Indians Died in the
Hospital here, I now Send the Surviving One under the Care of
Mr. Michael,3 the Interperter, to whom I have Ordered the Money
& Other Articles to be Delivered, as mentioned in the said List,
with a pass Directing him to proceed to Fort Johnson, where he
will Deliver over the said Indian, & the Money, &ca, to You, that
You may give such Directions as You Judge best for forwarding
the Indian to His Family, & for Securing the Money, & things that
belonged to the Deceased, that his Relations may Receive them.
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
1 See Amherst to Johnson, Dec. 11, 1761, ante. p. 343, also a Con-
ference With Delawares, Nov. 16-17, 1761, Johnson Papers, 3:566.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 "Pass permitting George McMichael to convey an Indian named
Cram from New York to Fort Johnson." Johnson Calendar, p. 123.
352 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson J amy. 10lK 1762
Sir
After the death of my Secretary Captn. Wraxall2 I employed
Mr. Shuckburgh then Surgeon of his Majestys Independant Com-
panys in that Capacity, with your Excellencys approbation, as
he was acquainted with Indian Affairs, and transactions, and
wrote in his favour to the Board of Trade, that he might succeed
to that employment, concerning which, I have never yet received
any Answer, shortly after my writeing Mr. Marsh3 came over with
a Commission to Succeed thereto, but in the mean time Mr.
Shuckburgh in expectation thereof, and haveing been told he
could not continue both employments, disposed of his Surgency,
by which he became destitute of employment, by the disapointm1.
he had mett with. — As Mr. Shuckburghs Circumstances, and
abilities of Supporting a Family are thereby much contracted,
and he haveing been an old Serv'. of the Crown, it would afford
me much Satisfaction to see him reinstated (without prejudice to
Mr. Marsh) in the employment which he for some time dis-
charged, on the Stipend which your Excellency may Judge
sufficient to allow him, as the Indian transactions are, from our
present extensive Alliances become more considerable, it will re-
quire more assistance for the proper discharge of that Duty, other-
wise that your Excellency would be pleased to consider his long
Services & indulge him with some employment in the way of
his profession in the Army, which may make up for the disapoint-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 On July 11, 1759.
3 Witham Marsh.
Seven Years' War 353
ments his desire to serve in my department occasioned, and will
confer an obligation of Sir, Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency SlR JEFFERY AMHERST
Knight of the Bath —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York 16th- January 1762
Sir,
I am to Acknowledge the favor of Your Letter of the 7th.2
Instant, Which was this morning delivered to me by Mr. Crog-
han. —
The meetings held by the People of the Provinces with the
Indians have always been Regarded by me in the Same Light as
You represent them ; but I hope You will have Influence enough at
the Intended meeting with the Six Nations, to Oblige the Depen-
dant Tribes to Deliver up Such of the English Prisoners as May be
Still Amongst them. —
I Acquainted You in mine of the 20th. Decern1".3 that I Should
transmit a Copy of Your proceedings at the Detroit &ca. to the
King's Ministers, and that the publication of any part thereof
Should be left to them, Whose province it is, to make Publick
the Transactions of His Majesty's Servants, in the Several Depart-
ments of the King's Dominions: I have only to add that I am Still
of the Same Opinion, for as it is not to be Doubted but these
Proceedings will be Laid before the King, the publication of
them before, would be Premature, & Improper; I Have already
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Johnson Papers, 3:598-601.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:593-95.
354 Sir William Johnson Papers
Assured You of my Entire Approbation of the Whole of Your
Conduct; and it will give me a particular pleasure to have it
Confirmed by Our Royal Master, of Which indeed I hav« not the
least Doubt. —
Capt Campbell's Accompts Amounted to a little more than the
Sum You mentioned ; and I have Sent him a Warrant for all the
Articles, Excepting the Provisions; the manner in which they are
to be paid I have not Yet fixed upon. —
The Rash and Treacherous Behavior of the Senecas ought
certainly not to pass unnoticed; and marks of disapprobation
Should be fixed on the Ring Leaders to deter others from the
like Steps for the future.
From the Reasons You give me of the Necessity of Incurring the
Expences Charged by Mr. Croghan and Ll. Buttler,1 I have,
altho' I must Still think these Disbursements very high, granted
a Warrant in favor of Mr. Croghan for the Amount of his Ac-
compts, and I Shall likewise Sign Another in favor of L*. Butler
for his Disbursements, & so finish these matters, which have put
the Crown to More Expence than I could have wished: Mr.
Croghan has Shewn me Your Instructions to him ; and I am hope-
full that part regarding the Retrenching of the Disbursements in
his Department, will have the Desired Effect.
"\ am very glad to find You are of the Same opinion with me,
in regard to the prohibition of Rum, and that in all Your late
passes, Spirituous Liquours have been forbid; I have Constantly
in mine, Inserted a Clause Expressly prohibiting Rum, & Spirituous
Liquours; And I Shall now Send Orders to the Officers Com-
manding at the Several Posts, not to permit any of these pernicious
Articles to pass, on any account whatsoever: when the Traders
find this, they will, of Course, Carry more usefull Commodities;
And as Ammunition may be permitted to be Sold to the Indians,
while they Continue quiet, and that we have no Reason to
Suspect they have any treacherous designs towards us, I am
hopefull they will be very well able to provide for their Families
See also Amherst to Johnson, Dec. 30, 1 761, Johnson Papers, 3:597.
Seven Years' War 355
by Hunting, and that there can be no Occasion for Distributing
presents at any of the Posts, Since the Dependence thereon can
only Serve to render the Indians Slothfull & Indolent, and burthen
the Crown with a Needless Expence.y
I am, with the greatest Truth & Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Baronet.
INDORSED :
To Sir William Johnson Bar1.
Fort Johnson
New York, 1 6th. January 1 762.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 24th. January 1762.
Sir,
A Few days ago Mr. Shuckburgh delivered me the favor of
Your Letter,2 in relation to the Reinstating that Gentleman into
the Employment of Your Secretary, Which he had formerly
held, untill Mr. Marsh Arrived here with an Appointment to
that office, from home, of Which You Sometime ago Spoke
to me.
I Had a very good opinion of Mr. Schuckburgh from the
Character You had given him; and Should be glad now of an
Opportunity of doing any thing for him in the way of his pro-
fession, in the Army; but as Mr. Marsh received his Commission
at home, I cannot think it right to Allow Any Sallary to Another
Person for doing his Duty ; And therefore Mr. Shuckburgh can-
not be paid as Secretary, While Mr. Marsh continues to possess
the Commission granted for that Office ; but You may be Assured
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Johnson to Amherst, Jan. 10, 1 762, ante p. 352.
356 Sir William Johnson Papers
that Your Recommendation of Mr. Shuckburgh, And Your
Interesting Yourself so much on his Acco*. Shall not be forgot
by me, When any opportunity Offers of providing for him in the
way You desire.
I am,
Sir,
&ca
Sir William Johnson Baronet.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
23d [Jan. 23-29, 1762]
The Conajoharee Indians sent to acquaint Sir William that
they were desired by the Onondagas, Oneidas, and Tuscaroras,
then at their Castle to acquaint him that they were going down
to his House upon business, where they expected to be, together
with the Conajoharees within two days —
25*.
26 Onondagas, 30 Oneidas, 12 Tuscaroras, 60 Conajoharees
& 48 Mohocks arrived at Fort Johnson —
26*.
The Indians all Assembled in the Council Room, when Sir
William Condoled with them for the death of some of their
Sachems —
P. M. They again assembled and returned the Compliment
of Condolance, but it being late the Onondagas Speaker on behalf
of the rest sayed that they would deferr proceeding upon busi-
ness until the next Day —
27*.
At a Meeting held at Fort Johnson with several of the Onon-
dagas, Oneidas, Tuscaroras & Mohocks2
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 A contemporary copy of the minutes of this meeting is to be found
in the Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, with an enclosure date
Seven Years' War 357
Present1
Sir William Johnson Bart
John Johnson Esqr
Lieut Guy Johnson as Secretary
Conoghquieson addressed Sir William as follows —
Brother Warraghiyagey
We return hearty thanks to the great being above for enabling
you now to see your Brethren of the Mohocks, Onondagas,
Oneidas & Tuscaroras here assembled, for conducting you safely
thro' all the dangers you had to encounter in your late journey,
and enabling you to finish all matters at the D'etroit —
Agreable to your Message sent us from the Oneida Lake
when you were on your journey, we imediately attended at-
tended2 you at Oswego where you informed us of the reasons
for your going to D'etroit, and the good business on which you
were dispatched You likewise informed us that Messengers were
dispatched by the Indians who overtook you, on your way, &
were desired to acq*, you that the 6 Nations had something
treacherous in hand, & therefore begged you would return, but
you informed them You were, determined to continue your
Journey, & obey your orders —
Broth
er
On your acquainting us therewith, the News seemed very
disagreable to us, & we assured you, we were strangers thereto
of Feb. 7, 1 762. It was enclosed in Johnson to Amherst, the Df. of
which, in Johnson Papers, 3:622, is dated Feb. 6, 1762, as is a
contemporary copy in the Indian Records; the A. L. S., however, in
the Amherst Papers, is dated Feb. 7, 1 762. The copy of the minutes
in the Public Record Office differs somewhat from the Indian Records
text; where the differences are important, they will be noted in the text.
1 The copy in the Public Record Office adds Captain Wade (Ferrall
Wade) and William Printup, interpreter, to those present at the meeting.
2 Word "attended" repeated in manuscript.
358 Sir William Johnson Papers
as were the Oneidas, & Cayugas, but that on your arrival at
Niagara you might perhaps hear more concerning it —
Brother
Since your leaving us, our Necks have been stretched out to
hear from you, as you had so many difficulties to encounter, &
many dangers to go through, but as you have now happily
effected your desires, & are returned back in safety, we are come
in Compliance to our antient Custom in order to heal your
wounds, & to know from you the particulars of your transactions
at the D'etroit —
Gave three strings
Brother
Ever since the breaking out of the War between the French
and you, You have been so constantly abroad that you had no
leisure, & whenever you came home, you were up to the knees
in blood & had no rest, but, we are now greatly rejoyced to hear
that peace was so happily established. And as your business has
hitherto prevented us from an opportunity of speaking to, and
wellcoming you, we now hope that as matters are well established
you will hereafter have more leisure, and we now bid you heartily
wellcome, and wish you may be enabled to stay at home —
A belt of nine Rows
Brother
We all know the great difficulties which your late journey was
liable to from Mischievous dangerous people who would willingly
frustrate your schemes, & prevent our welfare, and we are sen-
sible of the great perils you have undergone from so long a
journy, having so many Rivers to go down, and so many danger-
ous Lakes to cross, as well as from the Thorns, & Briars, which
must frequently have run into your feet, & as we doubt not but
some may yet remain there, we therefore by this string take all
such out of your feet, so that they may again become sound and
whole —
4 Strings
Seven Years War 359
Brother
At the beginning of the War some years ago the Council fire
still burned at Albany, but as it burned but dully, and did not
afford sufficient heat — It pleased God that you should kindle
one here at your House which was very agreable to us all, and
which hath still continued to burn bright, yet, by reason of the
troubles in the Country it could not be quite clear — We now
therefore brighten up your fire, & make it good and Clear, and
cleanse your fireplace so that there may be no more creeping
things found there to disturb our quiet, and that you may not
listen to, but kick all such insects away as disturb the peace &
friendship between us —
A belt 7 Rows
Brother
There being a great Tree planted at our fireplace which
hath Yielded us abundancy of shelter, and which notwithstand-
ing hath received some damage from insects, and creeping things,
who crawling over the roots have decayed the leaves, we now
Stretch out the leaves and branches of that Tree, & cover its
Roots from east to West so that nothing more may ever have
power to decay it
4 Strings
Brother
As we have now complied with antient Custom, & have light
up and enlarged the fire place, and as we know that there are
many things may be heard to the disturbing of the peace we
enjoy, we hope that none of us for the future may listen, or pay
attention to any idle stories which may be buzzed about to disturb
our quiet ; And that we may give no credit thereto for the future,
and the better to enable you to comply therewith, we now pour
over you the Water of Life which hath power to cleanse you
inwardly from head to foot, so that no ill thoughts can remain
within you from this time forward
A belt 6 Rows
360 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother
We have for sometime past heard that our Brethren the
English were wanting to get more Lands from us, and several
came amongst us for that purpose last year, Whereupon, the
whole 6 Nations assembled, to consider thereon, and have re-
quired us, the Oneidas in their Names to desire you will prevent
your People from Coming amongst us for that purpose hereafter,
as we begin already to be greatly Confined, not having sufficient
left us for our hunting — We have had our Lands from the be-
ginning of the World, and we love them as we do our lives,
therefore we hope you'll put a stop to any attempt of that nature
for the future — We have sold our brethren Lands so long as
we could spare any, and as they have great tracts yet unsettled,
we are certain they can be in no great want thereof — When
those are settled we shall think further Concerning it, and we
expect that there may be no farther bargains attempted to be made
with a few of any of our Nations without the consent of the rest —
therefore we leave this belt at your house, that when any person
shall be desirous of purchasing any more you may shew them
thereby, that the six Nations are all determined not to part with
more of their Lands on any account whatsoever —
A belt 6 Rows
Then the Conference ended for this Day —
28*.
The Indians assembled in order to attend Sir Williams Answer
Present as before
Sir William addressed them —
Brethren of the Onondagas &ca
The satisfaction which you all express at my return from my
tedious Journey to a distant Country, and at my surmounting
all the difficulties which were in my way, affords me much
pleasure, and I am likewise glad to find you have not forgot what
passed at the Meeting which we had together at Oswego when
on my journey —
Seven Years' War 361
I am glad to find you were so anxious to hear from me, & so
desirous for my succeeding in what I was sent, and return you
thanks for your healing my wounds on my return; but as you
are now come down unasked, I deferred letting you know my
transactions at the D'etroit 'till you had first mentioned your
business — ^ ^ 0l •
uave d otnngs
Brethren
Tis true during the War in these parts I had very little leisure
on my hands from the duty of my employment, but I hope to
have some more time for the future to consider of your wellfare,
and I now thank you for your good wishes that I may have
more ease hereafter and heartily welcome you here in return —
A belt
Brethren
I am glad you are so sensible of the dangers, & difficulties
which I had to encounter in my late journey, and am likewise
obliged to you for plucking the thorns & briars out of my feet
which yet remained therein A 0 .
4 Strings
Brethren
It gives me pleasure to find that you approve of, & have re-
ceived benefit from the Fire which I kindled for you at my House,
and I return you thanks for brightening the same, & for cleansing
the fireplace from any creeping, or unclean things, assuring you
that it shall be my Constant study to keep the fire bright, and
the fireplace clear from everything which may be pernicious, and
I now in return brighten up your fire at Onondaga, and sweep
every thing which may be bad from your fireplace so that you
may not listen thereto, and I hope you will for the future con-
tinue so to do, & keep your fire bright, & lasting to all Ages —
A belt
Brethren
I give you thanks for your care of the great Tree which hath
yielded you cover, and it shall be my care likewise to stretch out
362 Sir William Johnson Papers
its branches, & keep it from decay, so that it may always afford
you shelter —
4 Strings
Brethren
I take in good part your compliance with your antient Custom
upon this occasion, and your pouring on me the water of life
in order to purge me from any ill thoughts which might yet dis-
turb me, and I in return do the same with you desiring you will
not on your part for the future give attention to any bad News,
or idle stories which you may happen to hear —
A belt
Brethren
With regard to your Lands I must again assure you as I have
formerly that his late Majesty gave positive orders to all his
Governors not to make grants thereof to any persons who have
not fairly purchased them from you, which all his Governors
abide by, & are determined punctually to observe — As to any
tracts which have formerly been fairly bought from you, I expect
you can have no objection to them neither need you be under
any apprehension of the Governor's grants. Lands, unless by the
unanimous Consent of a Whole Nation, however, as you request
it, I shall acquaint all those who are desirous to purchase any
more, that you are determined not to dispose of any for the
future —
A belt
Brethren
Concerning my proceedings at the D'etroit, I am now to in-
form you
"Here recited the most materials of the proceedings held there
— then shewed them the belt sent to the D'etroit, and told them
that he intended to call down all the 6 Nats. to a Meeting, in
order to enquire into the same & know their present resolutions
thereon — then Delivered the Mohocks the several belts, strings,
and Calumet sent by the Ottawa Confederacy in answer to the
2 Mohock Castles — after which he proceeded"
Seven Years' War 363
Brethren
I have received some Letters a few days ago from his Excel-
lency Sir Jeffery Amherst, and the Lieut Governor of the Province,
informing me that the latter had given directions to the Inhabitants
of Esopus to hold a Meeting with your Nephews the Mounseys,
&ca in order to get some English prisoners out of their hands,
which they first promised to comply with, shortly, but afterwards
trifled, and did not perform their promise, as appears by the
Minutes of the proceedings thereon, which were enclosed to me
— I now therefore insist on your obliging your Nephews the
Mounsies &ca to deliver up all such prisoners as remain amongst
them, and I desire by this belt that my request may be imediately
complied with —
A belt
Brethren
The Revd Mr. Wheelock of Connecticut has informed me
by letter that the Government of Boston has made a provision
for the maintenance of six more Indian Children, to be educated
by Mr. Wheelock in the Christian Religion, I therefore thought
proper to give you this notice thereof, that those who are well
disposed to a work so essential to their future happiness may send
their Children down who shall be forwarded to New England
for that purpose —
3 Strings
Brethren
As the Senecas, and some other of the 6. Nations did not
attend the Meeting at the D'etroit, I desire you will forward this
belt to them, & all the 6 Nations, requiring them to come here
to a Genera] Meeting within Thirty days, that I may acquaint
them with what hath passed, & know their sentiments on the late
affair
Gave a belt
Sir William having finished his Speech, The Speaker of the
Onondagas addressed him —
364 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother
We have listened with attention to what you have saved to us,
at which we are well pleased, but it being now late we shall
defer saying anything in answer till tomorrow, at which time we
shall attend, & deliver what we have to say thereon —
Then they parted
P. M. The Conajoharees desired a separate meeting with Sir
William and accordingly assembled —
Present
Sir William Johnson Bart
John Johnson Esqr.
Lieut Guy Johnson as Secretary
Wm. Printup Interpreter
Speaker Kayenquiragoa, als Jonathan
Brother Warraghiyagey —
We have come here at this time together with the rest of our
Brethren of the 5 Nations to hear what had passed between you,
and the Nations at the D'etroit, also to wellcome you from
your long, & perilous Journey, and to assure you that we have
great satisfaction in hearing of your Success therein; and as you
have now delivered what you had to say to the 5 Nations, we
were desirous on our parts to say something to you relative to
an Affair which lies very heavy on us, and greatly concerns us
all, therefore we beg your serious attention thereto —
Brother
We understand that when you were lately indisposed at Cona-
joharee you could not attend to, or take notice of what we then
sayed to you, therefore, we shall now begin the same —
Brother
When you were ordered last summer to go to the D'etroit, you
called at our Castle and acquainted us therewith, & desired that
Seven Years' War 365
we should keep all our Young Men at home, nor suffer them to
go to war till your return, which we have waited for impatiently ;
at the same time you recommended to us, a kind, & friendly
behaviour towards the Inhabitants during your absence — since
which we have taken care to follow your directions, & have the
pleasure to tell you that our Young people have taken notice
thereof, & behaved themselves accordingly — We are sorry to
observe that, notwithstanding, this our good behaviour, we have
met with a bad return from our Neighbours/ particularly from
Ury Klock, who has all along endeavoured to set us in the worst
light to the several English Generals, by giving in charges in
writing, accusing us with scalping & other depredations. We,
who have allways shewn ourselves firm Friends, & have lost so
many of our people in your cause — this accusation hath given
us much uneasiness, when we consider our innocence, & losses
sustained from a contrary behavior, and our only consolation
thereon, was, that we cannot hear that any of the Generals gave
credit to such a falsity —
We were in hopes that after so many trials to inflame the
English against us, so malicious a proceeding would at last be
put an end to; Yet, we find that all our endeavors to preserve
peace & friendship have not had effect, and therefore, we now
return you the belt which you gave us when you advised us
to behave as Brethren & Friends —
returned a large Belt
Brother
Our troublesome Neighbour, George Klock having failed in
his designs of setting the Generals against us, has now fallen
upon another method equally destructive; that of endeavouring
to cheat us of our Lands, and thereby deprive us of subsistence,
by making our Young people, and others, drunk, & then per-
suading them to sign Deeds for it, which they are utter strangers
to when sober.
Which Indians who have been so deluded, together with all
those who have a right to dispose of Lands, are now present, &
366 Sir William Johnson Papers
declare their ignorance thereof, & their unwillingness to part
with the land — Our oldest Sachem (who is said to have signed
them) is likewise present, & positively denys his knowledge
thereof —
This Klock, being more artfull than our people, intices some
of our Young Men to his house, calls in others passing along the
road & makes them drunk, then, telling them that all the rest
have agreed thereto prevails on them to sign it. by this means,
he, as we hear has got several to sign a Deed —
On discovering his proceedings we called a Meeting of the
Whole Castle to consider on what was to be done, well knowing
that such steps were very unfair, and not agreable to the Custom
hitherto used, that when any person was desirous to purchase
Lands, it was usual to call a Meeting of the Castle, or Nation,
& there make proposals — contrary thereto, he has taken them
by the most unfair means — without consulting us thereon in
any manner —
At the Meeting we declared one, and all that we would not
agree to dispose of such lands upon any account, for, if we did
we must of Course perish for want of subsistence, and we now
in your presence unanimously declare these to be our sentiments
& intentions —
Brother
At another meeting which we held thereon, it was agreed that
we should send to Klock, to speak with us concerning his be-
havior but the Messenger who was his Brother neither returned
to us, nor did George Klock come, altho' we waited the whole
day for his arrival —
At a Third meeting, being resolved to have Klock present,
we sent two Indians for him, that he might shew us the Deed,
which he gave out we had all agreed to — on the Messengers
coming to his House Klock hid himself, and his Wife informed
them that she did not know where he was, perhaps in Albany,
or New York, but on their going into the Kitchen, a Servant
told them that he was above stairs, from which we concluded
Seven Years' War 367
that his proceedings were unjust, otherwise, he would have made
his appearance —
This Klock has two partners with him, who whenever they
meet with any of us, offer their hands, and ask us if we don't
love them, upon which we answer that we do, looking upon them
as Brethren, and on our shaking hands, they insert our Names
in Deeds, saying that we thereby give our Consent — and they
are all now threatening the Tenants which we have on these
Lands, for paying rent to us, forbidding them from cutting a stick
of Wood thereon, and telling them that it belongs to Klock —
Having now told you our Grievance, we beg you'll give at-
tention to what we are going to say —
Brother
We now most earnestly desire that this our deplorable situatn.
may be laid before the Governor that we may be redressed; As
we are Always esteemed amongst the most distant Nations the
head of the Six Nations, in what light will we appear to them
if we can have no satisfaction therein, or what usage may they
then Expect —
As we have now no other Lands left we must perish if we are
deprived thereof, and rather than so, we are determined to dye
thereon —
Gave a Belt —
Brother
There is another affair very disagreable to us, and which we
shall now lay before you —
We formerly gave a piece of Land to a Minister, on Condi-
tion he should build a Church for us, which was never done.
This Minister whose name was Van Dreesen deceived us, much
in the manner which Klock is now about, He first came to us, told
us twas very hard we should be obliged to go down to Albany
to have our Children baptized, or to receive the Sacrament, but
that if we would give him a piece of Land he would build a
Church thereon, & always reside there and officiate for us, which
368 Sir William Johnson Papers
we agreed to and accordingly gave him as much Land as would
make a good large farm, & which condition he never fullfilled
tho' we constantly expected he would perform his promise, which
when we found he was determined not to do, we naturally ex-
pected to have the Land given back to us again —
We are now without any persons to instruct us in the Christian
Religion, excepting three or four Visits in each year from the
Revd. Mr. Ehle; and we are informed that Van Dreesen being
dead, his heirs have sold the land which we intended for so good
a purpose. If the Clergy are thus to deceive us, who can we
rely on — had he performed his promise we should now have
been better people and our Children would become good Chris-
tians, but, as it hath fallen out otherwise, we beg you will take
this likewise into your Consideration, and procure us justice
therein —
Brother
As we have now (for the third time) related our Grievances,
& heard with great pleasure what passed at the D'etroit, we have
nothing more to say, and therefore purpose returning home
tomorrow
Sir William then addressed them
Brethren
I have attended to what you have sayed, & shall imediately
lay the Whole of your Complaints before the Governor and
Council of the Province who I make no doubt will see justice
done you therein —
Then the Speaker addressed Sir William
Brother
There is but one person amongst us now alive, who was said
to have signed the Deed about our Lands, which Klock Claims;
and he says he knows nothing thereof — but we have often been
informed by Indians since dead, that, on their suspecting some
Seven Years War 369
bad proceedings, they searched about and found an Axe, which
led them to search farther, where they found the place where
the Surveyors staff had been, from whence they were convinced
of the fraud —
29*
The Onondagas &ca assembled to answer Sir Williams
Speech —
Present as before
Conoghquieson (Speaker) Took the Belts which Sir William
had spoken on, and after repeating what he had sayed relative
to the Mohickanders delivering up their prisoners he proceeded
Brother Warraghiyagey —
After seriously considering what you spoke to us relative to
the Prisoners — Nicolasa, and myself are pitched upon to go
to the Mohickanders, and require their delivering them up — but
we are of opinion that it may be deferred until you have the
General Meeting with the six Nations, as we could not be able
to return from executing it, before that time, & our presence
will be required at the Meeting; however, we submit it to you
to act therein as you desire, being prepared to go, tho\ we think
so small a delay will be of no great consequence —
returned the belt for Sir Wm. to consider
thereon
Then the Onondaga Speaker stood up, with several belts in
his hand and spoke as follows —
Brother
About two years ago, and since we had different messages
from the Indians in Canada inviting us to visit them, which you
dissuaded us from, observing, that our Compliance would have
appeared odd, as they were only a part of us, besides, in a time
of War it would be very improper, upon which we did not go —
You likewise desired we would deliver up, all the English prison-
370 Sir William Johnson Papers
ers in our Nations, together with what Horses were amongst us,
all which we readily complied with, and now return you the
belts on which you spoke
returned three Belts
Brother
You spoke to us at Oswego, when you were on your way to the
Detroit concerning the Belt sent by the Senecas to the Nations
there, and advised us to reject such a scheme as was proposed,,
and to advise the Senecas against such a proceeding, thereupon,
we called them to a Meeting, and advised them against it, to
which we received no answer, In consequence whereof, our Na-
tion with the Cayugas, Oneidas, & Tuscaroras joyned in sending
them a large belt to dissuade them from it, & to inform them of
our inclinations, which they never thought proper to answer —
Wherefore, we now return you the belt on which you then spoke
to us —
returned a Belt
Brother
I am now to represent to you, our poor scituation & want of
ammunition &ca which we cannot get, and therefore we beg you
will take it into consideration, and let us have some to kill Game
for our subsistence —
A belt
Sir William then addressed them as follows
Breth
ren
As you represent that the time will be short, & that you can-
not be present at the intended meeting, if you shd. now go among
the Mohickanders, I therefore agree to deferr it till then, when I
expect it will be imediately put in Execution —
I return you thanks for your adherence to my advice in not
going to Canada when invited, as also for your complying with
my desire of surrendering up what prisoners & Horses were
amongst you, as you thereby shewed your friendship, and at-
tachment to the English —
Seven Years' War 371
I am glad to find you took such steps to dissuade the Senecas
from their project, tho I am sorry to find it was without effect,
but hope at the intended Meeting that I may learn their motives
for such behavior, and hear of their penitence for the same —
As your hunting season will not commence before I hold the
meeting with the whole Six Nations, till when you can't have
much occasion for ammunition, I hope by that time to procure
some for you, when, I shall supply your wants —
Then the Onondaga Speaker stood up & informed Sir William
that they would take their leave, purposing to return home next
Day, begged for some provisions to carry them home and prom-
ised to forward his belt — after which they departed
TO CADWALLADER COLDEN
Fort Johnson Janry. 30th. 1762
Dear Sir/
It gave me great concern to hear from the Publick prints of
the loss which You have lately sustained, in being deprived of
an Amiable Consort with whom You had enjoyed the most
exalted State of Conjugal happiness for a course of many Years,
/nowever I have the Satisfaction to consider, that this great trial
of human patience has fallen upon a Gentleman, whose universal
knowledge of ye. Accidents to which human nature is liable,
added to ye. certainty of the happiness She, as a good Christian,
must now enjoy, will enable him to bear up under that affliction
which, without those consolations, the greatest Mind would not
be able to support. —
I should not at this time trouble You with the herewith en-
closed proceedings & Affidavits was I not apprehensive that the
Good of ye. Publick, and his Majestys Service might suffer by
a farther delay, which I know You have always had so much
at heart that you will be the readier induced to forgive my in-
In Massachusetts Historical Society.
372 Sir William Johnson Papers
trude&. upon You with business at a time when Your thoughts
must be otherwise occupied. —
I most sincerely wish You all ye. fortitude of mind necessary
on so melancholly an occasion. —
and am truely
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
The Honorable
LlEUT. G0VR. COLDEN
INDORSED :
January 30, 1 762
To Lt. Gov. Colden
Letter from Sir William
Johnson inclosing Conferences
with the Indians & Affidavits
of Complaint against George
Klock.
1 7th. Feby. 1 762. Read in Council.
REPORT OF AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[Montreal 30th. January 1762— ]2
Copy of a Conference held by his Excellcy. Major General Gage
in the presence of Capt Dan1. Claus Depy. Ag'. of Indian affairs,
with four Chiefs of Caghnawaga, or Sault Sf. Louis, Deputies in
behalf of the whole Nation. —
Kaghneghtago, a Chief, addressed his Excellency
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Though this conference is dated Jan. 30, 1 762, it was not entered
in the Indian Records until Claus' arrival at Fort Johnson, in March;
see Journal of Indian Affairs, March 24, 1 762, post, p. 409.
Seven Years' War 373
Brother the Governor
The Chiefs and Warriors of our Nation having been assembled
in Council, after mature, and unanimous deliberation, have sent
us with the Complaint which we are going to make, and which
touches us as well as our posterity so nearly
Brother
When this Country was reduced, Indian matters were wisely
settled, and to the satisfaction of all the Indians in Canada. We
then pleased ourselves with the hopes of quietly following our
hunting and planting our Fields, which by the Accounts our
Ancestors gave us were granted to us by the King of France;
but what gives us now much uneasiness is, that these Lands are
continually ceded, and given out in Lots to the Inhabitants in
our Neighbourhood by our Fathers the Jesuits, who we looked
upon, were only charged with instructing us in Religious matters,
but if they Continue to act as they have done Since your Coming
to this Government, we shall be without planting ground, and
obliged to retire with our Familys into the Woods to search for
subsistence, — For, we now can't go to our Fields without meet-
ing with Frenchmen who give us to understand that the Land
is theirs —
Brother
Our Predecessors have always told us, that, when the Land
we live upon was granted to them, they had at the same time
Letters of Concession1 given them upon Parchment by their
Father the Jesuit who obtained them from the King of France
for us, and who explained to us our right and title to these Lands
of Sault Sl. Louis for us and our posterity, and which extended
itself from the Creek of La Tortue to that of Chateau Gay, and
that so particular that in case the French people and Indians
1 See Louis XIV, Letter of Gift and Concession to the Caghnawaga
Indians, dated May 29, 1680, post p. 374, which was submitted with
this report.
374 Sir William Johnson Papers
should be fishing at the same time on any of these Creeks, they
should be obliged to share the Fish between themselves — The
Chief of our Town kept always carefully this parchment of our
Right and Title, until about 50 years ago, when he that had the
Custody of it was killed in Action, it then remained in the hands
of his Wife, who not long after falling sick, was in her dying
hours prevailed upon by her Confessor to deliver him the parch-
ment, he persuading her that her salvation would be at stake in
case she should dye possessed of it — Thus Brother we were
deprived of our Letters of Concession, not knowing the con-
sequences that would follow, nor imagining we should have any
Variance about it, especially with those whom we looked upon
as our spiritual, and Temporal Fathers, therefore we are the
more surprized to meet with such treatment from them —
Wherefore, Brother, as we have no other resource left, but
that of your Justice and Equity, We implore you in the name
of our Whole Nation to grant us your protection in this Case, and
to reinstate us in our Rights by new Titles in place of those that
were taken from us with design to deprive us of our Lands —
This is what we have now to say, and we confirm it with this
belt
Gave a Belt to General Gage
LOUIS XIV S LETTER OF GIFT AND CONCESSION
TO THE CAGHNAWAGA INDIANS
Cop])1
[May 29, 1680]
Translation of Lewis the Fourteenth's Letter of Gift and
Concession, Extracted from the Register of Records in the
Secretarys office at Montreal —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6; submitted by Daniel
Claus with records of Indian conference regarding complaints of Cagh-
nawaga Indians, dated Jan. 30, 1 762 ; this is a copy of a copy probably
made in early February, 1 762 ; the translator is unknown.
Seven Years' War 375
Lewis by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre &ca —
To all whom these presents shall concern Greeting
Our Dearly and wellbeloved the Religious of the Company
of Jesus, who reside in our Country of New France, having most
humbly remonstrated to us, that the land of La Prairie de la
Magdelaine which was heretofore conceded them, were too Wet
to be planted and improved for the sustenance of the Iroquois
who are established thereupon, and that it might be apprehended
they would go off them, if it did not please us to grant them that
Land called Le Sault containing two Leagues in front, to begin
at a point which is opposite the rifts of S*. Louis, and running up
along that Lake in the same depth, with two Islands, Islets, and
shallows over against it, and adjoyning the Land of La Prairie de
La Magdelaine, which will be the means not only to keep the
said Iroquois, but also augment their Number, and likewise,
Extend the light of faith of the Gospel, & to this Desired End
contribute towards the Conversion and Instruction of said Iroquois,
and to look favourably upon said Sollicitors (the Jesuits) We
have given, and Do give by these presents signed with our hand,
the said Land called Le Sault, containing two Leagues in front,
to begin at a point opposite the Rifts Sl. Louis, running up the
Lake the same depth, with two Islands Islets and Shallows which
are there, and are joyning the Lands of a La Prairie de la Mag-
delaine. With this Condition that the said Land called Le Sault
shall return to us with all its improvements as soon as the Iroquois
shall leave it —
Permitting all those who incline to carry to said Iroquois Rings,
Knives, or other Merchandice of such kind whatsoever. — We
do at the same time prohibit expressly to all the French that may
Settle, or Establish themselves amongst said Iroquois or other
Nations of Indians that may settle on the said Land called Le
Sault to keep any Creatures, or Cattle, and forbid all, and every
Person to erect a Tavern, or Taphouse in the Village of the
Iroquois that may be built thereupon Ordering our Armies, and
Members of our Supreme Council at Quebec, and all other
Officers of Justice to have said Letters of Gift, & Concession
376 Sir William Johnson Papers
read, and registered, and let said Sollicitors use and enjoy them,
hindering, & preventing all Trouble or disturbance that might
be given them to the Contrary, For such is our Will and pleasure.
In Witness whereof we have ordered our Seal to be affixed to
these presents, Given at Fountainebleau the 29lh. day of May, In
the year of our Lord 1 680, and the 38lh. year of our Reign —
Signed
Louis
By order of the King
Colbert
decree of a court1
Copy2
[Undated]3
Translation of the Sentence of the Court of Field Officers at
Montreal held by Order of his Excellency Major General Gage
for the trial of the Dispute between the Indians, & Jesuits con-
cerning the Lands at Sault Sl. Louis4 —
Having heard the parties on both sides, We Order that from
the Date of these presents the two Concessions in question, be
brought into one only concession, under the title of Concession
of the Iroquois of Sault Sf. Louis bounding on the one side to the
Line of La Prairie de La Magdelaine Patent, and the other
side on that of Chateaugay. And after having with attention
examined the terms of said Concession and compared them with
several others, we cannot find that the Reverend Fathers Jesuits
have obtained any right of Seignory, or Mannor over said Land,
but on the contrary are unanimously Convinced by the wise precau-
tions taken in said Act, that his Most Christian Majesty never
supposed that the Revd. Fathers Jesuits should be temporal Lords
1 Submitted to Sir William Johnson with Report of an Indian Conference,
Jan. 30, 1762, ante p. 372; translator unknown.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Probably February of 1 762.
4 Caghnawaga.
Seven Years' War 377
of those Indians whom the necessity of that time required to be
called and established about Montreal; Wherefore we frustrate
said Revd. Fathers Jesuits of all temporal rights, which they
have arrogated to themselves over said Lands be it by the Con-
descension of Governors, or Intendants (which is the only title
by which they have obtained it) or by acts of reinstating into
Domains which they have at different times obtained either by
right of possession or other Reasons they may alledge. And
We Order that the said Indians of Sault S'. Louis be put in pos-
session, and enjoy peaceably to themselves, their Heirs and other
Indians that might joyn them, all the Lands and Income said
Concession may produce. And being persuaded that nothing
Contributes more Effectually to Civilize and attach all Nations
of Indians than strictly & religiously keeping the Engagements
made with them, and preventing all Misunderstandings from
arising between them and the Inhabitants established in their
Neighbourhood, We Order that the Limits of said Concession
of the Iroquois of Sault be run as soon as possible by a sworn
Surveyor, and marked by stones being put in the Ground with
his Britannick Majestys Coat of Arms, and that the plan of the
figures be left in our Office —
We order further that the Church, the Priests house called
the Mannor house, with all other buildings made by the Revd.
Fathers Jesuits upon said Concession (or such as have been left
to them) be looked upon as belonging immediately to the Indians
and that they be considered as forming a Parish, said Indians
will thereby be obliged to keep said Buildings in repair at their
Expence, but they nevertheless shall be intended for the use of
the Missionaries that may live among them; and with regard to
the Expences the Rd. Fathers Jesuits were at in this respect, we
think them sufficiently indempnified —
1st. By the Income they drew hitherto from the Inhabitants
they established upon said Concession. —
2dly. By the value of the Land the Indians abandoned at
La Prairie de la Magdelaine, which the Rd. Fathers Jesuits may
378 Sir William Johnson Papers
grant out to the Inhabitants as the Indians have been removed
to the Sault.
And being obliged to see the Iroquois, and Indians of Sault
enjoy peaceably and solely the Benefits granted to them by his
Most Christian Majesty —
We order that all the Inhabitants who have received particular
Concessions in the territory of the Patent of Sault Sl. Louis do
deliver the Originals of their Concessions into the hands of Mr.
Panet Notary of this Town before the first of July next in order
that matters may be regulated as above ordered.
1st. All Concessions granted by the Revd Fathers Jesuits to
this day, and of which the Inhabitants have not as yet taken pos-
session, are hereby disannulled, and void —
2dly. All Concessions granted since the 8th. of September 1 760,
in whatever state the Land so granted may be at present, are
hereby annulled, and the Inhabitants obliged to leave them before
the 1 st. of November 1 762, and we sentence the RA Fathers
Jesuits by these presents to reimburse said Inhabitants for the
rents or other benefits they may have received by said Con-
cessions —
3dly. In Consideration of the loss of Time, Expences, and
Work which those Inhabitants established upon said Concession
before the 8th. of Septr. 1 760 may have had, And unwilling that
they, or their families should suffer by the mistake made in this
respect, We order that they continue to enjoy peaceably the lands
they possess now by Concession obtained from the Rd. Fathers
the Jesuits, at the same time that they be not allowed to enlarge
them by imposing upon the Indians, or any other means whatso-
ever. Commanding them to come and procure new Concessions
for themselves from our Office towards the 1 5th. of July next —
To the end that the Indians may enjoy their rents, the Governor
shall be obliged to name and appoint a person to receive the
rents, and other rights of the Mannor which said Concession may
produce, and we bind the said Receiver to render ace1, to said
Indians every 2d. February in the year, or Candlemass, in the
Seven Years' War 379
presence of said Governor, or such persons by him authorized
for that purpose. —
The produce of said rents to be used towards repairing the
Church and other Buildings at Sault Sf. Louis, and the Overplus
to be delivered into the hands to do therewith what they judge
proper. And as the Concession of the Iroquois of Sault in gen-
eral is reversible to his Majesty when they abandon it, and that
the rights of Jurisdiction thereof (over every other person but the
Indians, who established themselves there illegally) cant belong
but to his Majesty — We furnish the said receiver with orders
and necessary powers to maintain the rights of his Majesty in
this respect, as well as the regulations which we shall find neces-
sary to give concerning the Curateship, and Parish of Sf. Peter
Ordering from henceforth that the said Inhabitants Continue
to grind their grain at the Mill upon the Revd. Fathers the Jesuits
patent called La Prairie, until it shall please us to order other-
wise —
?<
FROM THOMAS FITCH
jH.. Li. wJ.
Norwalk 3d. Febry. 1762
Sir
Your Letter of the 1 0th. December2 Signifying Your Request
to me to Lay before the Legislature of this Colony Your De-
mands of Satisfaction for Your Service in the Year 1 755. I am
now only to Acknowledge and to Acquaint you I Shall take the
first Opportunity to communicate your motion to the Assembly
which will not Sit before May Unless some Special Occasion
shall make it Necessary to call it to meet sooner. When the
1 In Harvard University Library, Sparks Collection.
'■ This letter was probably identical with that sent Governor Wentworth,
of this date; see Johnson Papers, 3:586-87.
380 Sir William Johnson Papers
Assembly has Determined the Matter I shall Endeavour to give
you Notice as soon as may be of their Resolution therein
In the Mean Time I Remain
with very great Regard your
most Obedient and
most humble Servant
Sir William Johnson Th°S' Fitch
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST1
Contemporary Copy
Fort William Augustus, Feby. 4th 1762.
Sir
Last Winter I had some intimation of a belt being sent from
Montreal thro' all the Northern Indians inviting them to assemble
at Canasadaga early in Spring, to commence hostilities, if a
favourable opportunity offered; The Indian who informed me
of this, denyed it upon being questioned before some of his
Brethren, this alarmed them, and put them on their guard; so
that I never was able to get any further insight into the affair,
from them, till the other day, when I asked the above mentioned
Indian to tell me his reasons for denying before a few of his
Brethren what he had told me in private, he said, his life was
threatened by them if he ever mentioned it again to the English ;
But, upon being promised that he should never be called in ques-
tion about it, he then said, he would tell me the truth, the purport
of which is as follows ; That the priest of the Oswegatchie Indians,
in presence of the Grand Vicar, and the rest of the Clergy at
Montreal delivered three Belts to two of the leading men of that
Nation, after the Grand Vicar had explained the signification
of them, that these Belts were forwarded to the five Nations,
and from thence to all the Northern Indians, but upon the dis-
1 Copy enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1 762, post p. 394.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
In
GENERAL HENRY GLADWIN
Engraving from the portrait by John Holland.
Charles Moore, The Northwest under Three Flags (1900)
Seven Years' War 381
covery at Detroit, they dropped their plan for the present; he
likewise tells me, that all the Indians are our secret Enemies,
which is intirely owing to the influence the Priests, and Jesuits
have over them; That last fall some principal Indians from most
of the Nations attached to the French assembled at Conesadaga,
in order to receive Instructions for their Conduct, which was,
that they were to keep as far from the English as they possibly
could, and have no manner of communication with them, that
their service would be wanted ere long, but they were not to stir
till they heard further from them; he likewise says, not only the
Clergy, but all the principal Inhabitants of Montreal are con-
cerned in the affair. My Informer being asked to tell me his
Authority for what he advanced, he replyed that the Indian to
whom the belts were given, told him every thing concerning them ;
that he was at Canasadaga last fall, and was an Eye witness
of every thing that passed there, but in regard to the Inhabitants
of Montreal being concerned, it was only a General report among
the Indians — I think it my duty to send you this piece of Intel-
ligence, because I am fully persuaded, from these and other
circumstances, that the priests and Jesuits are tampering with the
Indians, which may be attended with ill consequences sometime
or other.
My informer has promised to let me know from time to time
every thing that passes among them, and you may be assured,
Sir, if any thing new comes to my knowledge, I shall send you
the earliest intelligence of it, I am with the greatest Respect
Sir
&ca —
382 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 14A. February 1762.
Sir,
I am Just now favored with Your Letter of the 7th. Instant;2
Enclosing a Copy of the Conferences held with the Chiefs of the
Onondagas, Oneidas &ca. that had Come to Visit You, Which
I Shall peruse as Soon as I have time. —
I Cannot Imagine how the Indians Should have Cause to
Complain of their Lands being taken from them, as I take it for
granted that no Lands belonging to them have been Disposed of
by the Province, without first Satisfying the Indians for the
Same; However You did certainly right to lay their Complaint
before the Ll. Governor, Who, I Doubt not, will Redress any
Grievances of this kind; And I Shall likewise Speak to him on
the Subject. —
You are the best Judge of What End it would Answer to
hold a Meeting at Albany, with the Coghnawaga Chiefs &ca.,
& the New England Indians; but I must Confess, I think, it
had better be let alone, as the Latter, in my opinion, are not
of Consequence Enough to be Consulted on Such an Occasion, &
would only Create a needless Expence, without being of the
least Service. —
With regard to the Memorial that has been presented to You
by a Number of the Indian Traders, for Leave to Trade at
Little Niagara, All I can Say thereon, is, that as I have never
granted an Exclusive priviledge to Any Persons, And that
Every One is free to Carry on Trade at Niagara Carrying
place (untill His Majesty's pleasure is known in regard to these
Lands) agreable to the Orders and Regulations that have been
given, So there can be Nothing more Required for their Reaping
all the Advantages they can Expect, than their keeping Strictly
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:622-24, where it is dated February 6, 1 762.
Seven Years' War 383
to these Orders and Regulations, without Which they must Expect
to be prohibited: As to the Rum already at the Several Posts,
I think it would be hard to Oblige the Proprietors to bring it
down the Country, & they must Dispose of it the best way they
can; the Commanding Officers, from the orders I have Sent,
I am convinced will do all in their power to prevent its being Sold
to the Indians, And a Short time will, I am hopefull, put an
End to all Complaints arising from the Sale of this Destructive
I am, with great Truth & Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
TO TEEDYUSCUNG1
Records, Vol. 6.
Fort Johnson Feb'v. 20ih. 1762 —
Brother Teedyescung
I informed you by my letter dated 1st. March 1 7603 of his
late Majestys pleasure signified to me, concerning the complaint
wh. you formerly made relative to your lands, which he gave me
orders to enquire into, and report to him thereon. I therefore
desired to know when and where I could have a Meeting with
You, and the Delawares thereon, that I might give timely notice
to the Proprietaries Comsrs. to attend the same &ca.
I am not a little surprised that such a length of time hath
elapsed without my hearing from You relative thereto, and
greatly astonished at finding by Govr. Hamilton's Letter to me,4
that You declared yourself unwilling to have the affair laid
1 Enclosed in letter to Richard Peters, for delivery by him. See Johnson
Papers, 3:639-40.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. Copy in Indian
Records, Vol. 6.
3 In Johnson Papers, 3 : 1 94.
4 February 1 0, 1 76 1 , ante p. 2 1 0.
384 Sir William Johnson Papers
before me, from our being Strangers to one another, Such delays
and excuses are verry extraordinary and must (when I represent
them at Home) prevent his Majesty from paying so much attention
to any future complaint you may make, after yr. neglecting this
proof of his Royal Clemency.
I now therefore expect you will imediately on receipt hereof
(agreable to my former desire) give me notice when and
where you can meet me, together with such Delawares as are
concerned, that I may examine into the nature and merits of
your complaint, in obedience to his late Majestys order, and you
may rest assured that everry thing shall be by me transacted
thereat with the utmost impartiality, and strictest attention to
your Interest, and to the procureing you Justice therein. —
I am your Sincere Brother
WM. Johnson
To Teedyescung a
Cheif of the Delawares —
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST1
Contemporary Copy
Fort Wm Augustus, February 24th 1762.
Sir
Since my last to your Excellency of the 4th. inst.3 we have
with some difficulty made another convert, who seems to be under
great apprehensions for fear of being discovered, and, as he
speaks a little English, and some Dutch, he will not allow of an
Interpreter, and in order to avoid suspicion, he desires he may
be turned out of the Fort, as a troublesome fellow whenever
he is found here by any of his Brethren; the Man seems to be
very sincere, and I really believe I may depend on him, he says
he will advance no more than what he knows to be true, the
1 Copy enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1 762, post, p. 394.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Ante p. 380.
Seven Years' War 385
purport of which is as follows; That last year some Belts came
from below among them; and he believes they were sent by
the Clergy, but he never knew rightly the signification of them,
because it was only communicated to the leading Men of their
Nation; he likewise says that about five Weeks ago a very
large belt came from Tactaquisela at Montreal, Inviting all the
Indians attached to the French in, & about Canada, to assemble
at Frontenac,1 as soon as the River opens ; but for what purpose
he can't say, nor will it be known till things are agreed on there —
My other Informer is gone to the five Nations to pick up what
he can; I expect him back in about Twenty days; you may be
assured, Sir, nothing shall be wanting on my part to get all
Intelligence I can, as I am fully persuaded if we have not an
Indian War, Its not owing to any slackness on the part of our
Secret Enemies below —
My Informer says, he would know the French name of him
who sent the Belt, were it mentioned to him, for which reason,
I have wrote to General Gage, Requesting he would send me the
Names of all the Clergy, as well as the principal Inhabitants of
Montreal; if any thing new comes to my knowledge, I shall
from time to time, let you know it. —
I am &ca —
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST2
Contemporary Copy3
[Fort William Augustus] Feby 25, 1762
Sir
Since my last to your Excellency of the 24th. instant, I have
Received further Intelligence concerning the Belt that was sent
from Montreal about five Weeks ago; it seems Monsieur
1 Fort Frontenac.
2 Copy enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1762, post p. 392.
3 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
386 Sir William Johnson Papers
Longuile,1 who commanded at Oswegatchie some years, delivered
it to three Indians, who carried it thro' all the Nations between
Montreal & Onondaga; And I believe it was forwarded from
thence to all the Northern Indians; my informer likewise tells
me, that every thing is fixed in order to commence Hostilities,
early in the Spring, on the Communications to all our Posts;
and those that do not chuse to act, are to remove to the Borders
of Lake Ontario; in a Word they Intend to renew the plan they
dropped last year; The Indians this way, are not to stir 'till
they begin to the Southward, in order, I suppose that the Priests
& Jesuits may make a handle of it; and I am convinced upon
comparing Circumstances that the Clergy are the Cause of the
whole. Hie Messengers who carried the belt are (I am told) on
their return to Montreal, and will be there about the time this
Reaches it —
I am &ca —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
[Albany Feb. 25, 1762]
Sir Wm. Johnson being then at Albany was there met by the
Mohickander Indians
At a Meeting held at Albany Feb?. 25th. 1 762
Present
Sir William Johnson Bart
Lieut Pfister Roy1. Americans
Lieut Guy Johnson as Secretary
Papehanoak, and several Indians of Stockbridge
Chicksagan ak Jacob, spoke to Sir William as follows
Father
We have observed that ever since the War has ended the
Inhabitants of this Country have looked coolly on us, and not as
heretofore —
1 Longueuil.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 387
Formerly we met with a good reception from the white people,
and were treated with Victuals by them at their Houses, but now,
times are so altered that we might perish before any assistance
was afforded us —
At present We find our Lands, and hunting grounds taken
possession of by people who have no right thereto, and who keep
houses of Entertainm1. at our places of resort, which induces our
people to drink, & neglect their hunting, selling both the flesh,
and skins of the Beasts which they have killed to these Tavern
keepers for Rum —
If we now at any time claim our Lands, and ask the people
settled thereon, what they do there, they answer that it hath been
purchased from our forefathers, many years ago, and that they
have been settled thereon by the Patroon of Albany and others —
If this way of dealing is allowed to be continued, we must all be
ruined, having little else beside our Lands at present to depend
on —
gave a Belt
Father
We hope you will take our case into Consideration, and put a
stop to the selling of rum amongst us, since, in case we have no
redress therein we shall in a little time become naked, we there-
fore wish you'll prevent its being sold us hereafter, that we,
and our Wives & Children, may be enabled to earn their bread,
& that you will likewise prevent us from being deprived of
our Lands, & Hunting Grounds in this Country.
Then laid before Sir William a Petition which they had laid
before the Governor, and Council in 1 754 concerning their
Lands together with the proceedings & Opinion of the Council
thereon, dated 5th. July 1754 —
Sir William then answered them —
Children
I should be very sorry you had any real occasion, or cause of
complaint against the behavior of the English, who I am very
certain will always continue to use such Indians well, who shall
388 Sir William Johnson Papers
deserve it at their hands; If you now find any alteration in the
deportment of them towards you, it must be imputed to their
knowledge of your present abilities & inclination to serve your-
selves, that you being now in a great measure civilized, and
acquainted with our manner of gaining a Subsistence, you
frequently enlist yourselves in his Majestys Service, as well as
apply yourselves to labour, from all which I am glad to see you do
not stand in so much need of our assistance as formerly —
Whenever it can be made appear that you have been defrauded
of your Lands, you shall not want my assistance to redress you
and tho' abuses of that Nature have sometimes happened, Yet,
many of your people have formerly sold lands without the
knowledge of the rest, and which the present race of Indians
Claim, not being acquainted with the puchase thereof
A Belt
Children
His Excellency Sir Jeffery Amherst being sensible of the
pernicious Consequences attending the sale of Rum amongst you,
has given orders to prevent any more spiritous liquor from being
carried up or disposed of to any of the Indians, which will I
hope be attended by the best Consequences, and be the occasion
of your attending to your hunting, and trade, whereby you will
once more be enabled to Cloath and Support Yourselves, and
f amilys —
I shall imediately lay your petition, together with the Order
thereon before the Governor, and Council of this province who I
make no doubt will take the same into Consideration, & do you
the justice which you require —
A belt
Sir William haveing answered the Speech of the Indians they
took their leave —
Seven Years' War
389
REGULATION FOR THE INDIAN TRADE AT FORT STANWIX
Contemporary Copy1
[Feb. 1762]
Sir William made out and sent a Regulation for the Indian
trade at Fort Stanwix of which the following is a Copy
Indian goods
To be sold for
One stroud of 2 Yards long
One large White Blanket for
a Man
One Womans blanket, of 24
to ye. piece
Childrens blankets, of 30 to
the piece
One pair, or 1 Ell, & 1 /3 pen-
niston for Stockings
One pair of Stroud Stockings
or one Ell of D°.
One pair of Womens worsted
Stockings
One pair of Womens yarn D°.
One pair of Childrens D°.
One penniston Coat for a man,
with binding
One d° for a lad of 16 years
old wth. D°.
One D° for a boy of 4 years
old with D°.
One Garlick shirt for a Man,
or Woman
Two Beavers, or three dressed
buckskins
One large Beaver, or 2 Small
buckskins
A Beaver of 21b , or 2 Doeskins
A Small beaver, or middling
buckskin
A Beaver of 1 lb , or a Doe
A Middling beaver, or buck-
skin
A small buckskin, or middle-
sized beaver
2 Racoons, or one Martin
one Racoon, or 3 Muskrats
2 Bucks, or 2 Middlesized
Beavers
2 Small bucks, or 2 Small
Beavers
One Buck, or small Beaver
One small beaver, or middling
buck
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
390
Sir William Johnson Papers
Indian goods
To be sold for
One fine Ruffled Shirt for D°.
2 small Bucks, or 2 middling
beavers
A Childs Shirt from 5 to 2
One Martin, or 2 Racoons
years old
100, of good black Wampum
One beaver of a lb, or 3 Ra-
coons, or 2 Minks
1 00, of white Wampum
2 Racoons, or 6 Muskrats
A large Cutteau knife
one Racoon, or 3 Muskrats
A Common Clasp, or Scalping
one Small Racoon, or 2 Musk-
knife
rats
One Whole piece of best roll
1 small Beaver, or 4 large
gartering
Racoons
One piece of ordinary D°., or
1 Doeskin, or 3 large Racoons
Gimp
One fathom of 10 penny Rib-
1 Martin, 2 large Racoons, or
band
6 Muskrats
One pound of Vermilion
2 middlesized beavers, or 2
Bucks
One fathom, of Callicoe, or a
1 Beaver, or 2 Doeskins
short Gown of D°.
One Callimancoe Gown
1 large buck, or 2 Doeskins, or
1 middling beaver
One large silk hankerchief
1 middling beaver, or one buck-
skin
Brass Kettles *p pound
2 Racoons, or one Martin
Tin, or Camp Kettles of a
1 Middling beaver, or a buck-
Gallon each
skin
1 large stamped Silver armband
3 middling beavers, or 3 good
Bucks
1 Silver Wrist band of the best
1 Beaver of 21b, or 2 middling
kind
Does
1 Silver Broch, or Shirtbuckle
3 Muskrats, or 1 Racoon
Seven Years' War
391
Indian goods
To be sold for
1 pair of Silver ear bobs
1 large silver hair plate for
Women
1 large silver Gorget for Men
One pound of Gunpowder
3 Bars of lead 1 Vi u each
6 Flints
1 Common, or middlesized
Indn. lookg glass
1 fathom of Embossed Serge
Red Trunks largest size, or
next to it
Middle Sized D°.
Small Trunks
6 Small Jews Harps
6 plain brass rings
1 fathom of thick brass wire
1 fathom of smaller D°.
1 Horn Comb
A Beaver Trap
3 Awlblades
2 Racoons, or 6 Muskrats,
or 1 Martin
3 Beavers, or 3 large Bucks
3 Beavers, or 3 large Bucks
I Beaver of a lb , or a Doeskin
1 lb of beaver, or a Doeskin
1 Muskrat
2 Racoons, or a Martin
1 middling beaver, or 1 Buck-
skin
1 Beaver, or 1 Buck, or one
Otter
1 middling beaver, or 1 good
bearskin
1 Martin, or 2 Racoons
1 Racoon, or 2 Muskrats
1 small Racoon, or 2 Muskrats
1 Racoon, or 3 Muskrats
1 small Racoon, or 2 Muskrats
1 — D°. — or 2 D°.
1 Beaver, or 1 Buck, & 2
Racoons
1 Muskrat
392 Sir William Johnson Papers
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST1
Contemporary Copy2
[Fort William Augustus,] March 5th 1762
Sir
The intelligence I sent your Excellency of the 4th., 24th., and
25th. of Febr>\3 is confirmed to me by another hand in almost
every circumstance. My informer resided at Caghnawaga up-
wards of thirty years, & was Spokesman of that Nation some-
time, consequently he must know every thing that passes among
them, which I believe he would never have told me, had it not
been for some difference between him and the priest of Aquisas-
nag/i,4 in consequence of which, he is determined to leave the
Indians below, and go to the five Nations; for these reasons I
thought him hand[y] to question concerning any News that
might be among them, he readily owned he knew everything that
was stirring, but was very loth to say any thing about it 'till he
was a little elevated with liquor. I then desired him to tell all he
knew, beginning with last year, which he did, but it will be need-
less to repeat here all he advanced, because his information con-
currs in almost every Circumstance with my other Letters of
Intelligence, some matters he clears up, a few things he advances
which I never heard before, and is as follows;
The Oswegatchy priest delivered the belts last year, and was
at the same time the Grand Vicars Interpreter; that last Summer
the Clergy below sent two Belts to the Northern Indians, the
meaning of the first was, that they were not to allow any parties
to enter their Country, and those who attempted it, they were to
cut off, — the meaning of the other was, that they were to murder
Sir William Johnson, if they did not approve of his Council;
1 Copy enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1762, post p. 394.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 See Gladwin to Amherst Feb. 4, 1 762 (ante p. 380), Feb. 24, 1 762
(ante p. 384), and Feb. 25, 1 762 (ante p. 385).
4 Aughquisasne, the Indian village of St. Regis.
Seven Years War 393
he likewise says, the belt that came from below about six Weeks
ago was delivered by the Clergy to Monsieur Longuile,1 and was
by him given to three Indians at Conesadaga, one of them an-
swers to the name of Joseph, he returned from the Mohocks last
Summer, or fall, and is Nephew to Monsieur Simons at Conesa-
daga; they are to carry it thro' the five Nations, and deliver it
at Detroit, from thence it is to be forwarded to all the Northern
Indians, one of them was here a Day, or two ago. we made him
drunk which opened the sluices of his heart, and he then told
all he knew, which corresponds exactly with what I have advanced
concerning the belt that was sent from below this Winter, how-
ever improbable all these accounts may appear, Nevertheless I
am persuaded there must be some truth in them, as none of my
Informers have had the least intimation that I had any knowledge
of these matters from others, besides, I am almost convinced
they have no Acquaintance with each other: My Informer like-
wise tells me, that now there is at Conesadaga Eight of the
Northern Indians, one from each Nation, and all leading Men,
that they were waiting to receive their Instructions from the
Priests, before they return.
This comes by an Express which I sent across to Sir William
Johnson by presents I have engaged the Indian who informed
of the above to go with the party: I am persuaded Sir William
will be able to get from him (when he is sober) what he told
me in his Cups —
I am &ca — The foregoing are true
Copies2 taken from the
Originals by
G Johnson, as Secy.
1 Longueuil.
2 Copies of letters from Gladwin to Amherst, dated Feb. 4, 1 762
(ante p. 380), Feb. 24, 1762 (ante p. 384), Feb. 25, 1762 (ante
p. 385), And March 5, 1762 (ante p. 392) were sent by Gladwin to
Johnson, and entered in the Indian Records by Guy Johnson.
394 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy1
Fort William Augustus, March 5l\ 1762.
Sir
I enclose you herewith Duplicates of four letters2 I wrote to
Gen1. Amherst. I chose to copy them exactly in order that you
may see the steps I have taken to come at the truth —
I send this by Cain3 the Interpreter, he has been very active
on the occasion, and really he merits a gratuity for his services,
he has been employed in this way ever since I had the honour
to command here, and never had any thing for it; I have like-
wise promised the Indian that you would reward him to his
satisfaction —
Permit me, Sir to tell you, I shall allways retain a gratefull
sense of your Civility to me at Detroit, and I don't despair of
seeing you some time or other, when I shall take the opportunity
to thank you in person
I am
Sir &ca
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. A marginal note
by Guy Johnson, referring to this document, reads: "V. [vide] Page
228 [refers to location of Gladwin to Johnson, April 4, 1 762, (post
p. 422.) in the Indian Records, Vol. 6,] for a more particular acct.
of the secret acts of the French to set up the Indians." A list of the
documents of this case is given in footnote 2, p. 424.
2 Letters from Gladwin to Amherst, dated Feb. 4, 1 762 (ante p. 380),
Feb. 24, 1762 (ante p. 384), Feb. 25, 1762 (ante p. 385), and
March 5, 1762 (ante p. 392).
3 Meni Chesne.
Seven Years' War 395
FROM RICHARD PETERS
Contemporary Copy1
Philadelphia, 6ih March 1762
Sir
I sent off Mr. David Seisberger,2 express with your Letter to
Wyoming where Teedyuscung lives with orders, as he under-
stands the Delaware Language, to take care that the letter was
well interpreted and an Answer sent by him to you —
Mr. Seisberger returned to this City this day sevennight with
the inclosed answer, in Company with twenty Cayuga Indians,
whom he met on the way coming down, who have acquainted
the Governor, that they were dispatched by the Six Nations, &
particularly the Senecas, to tell the Governor that they had col-
lected all our Prisoners and were coming down with them, and
that there would be a great Number of Indians from all the six
Nations on this occasion.
Mr. Croghan has no doubt informed You of the Belts that he
delivered to Governor Hamilton from the Beaver and other
Indian Chiefs advising him that they would visit him this Spring
and bring with them the Western Indians —
This unexpected visit from the Six Nations being likely to
be chargeable to the province, The Governor informed the Cayuga
Messengers that the Western Indians would be here in two
Months, and he thought it best for the Six Nations to be here
at the same time, and therefore desired it might be so ordered,
letting them know likewise that it would be more agreable to
him that they would leave their Young Men, Women and Chil-
dren behind, and send down the prisoners by some few of their
principal Men, in which case they should be able to make them
a better and more valuable present —
The Indians delivered a String of Wampum to the Govr.
from the Six Nations desiring him to send for Mr. Croghan and
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 David Zeisberger.
396 Sir William Johnson Papers
Cap1. Montour1 to be present at the ensuing Conferences, to
which the Governor answered that as they were in your Service,
he could not take this upon him, but if they thought them neces-
sary he desired they would apply to you to give them orders to
attend —
You know, Sir, that the Coming down of the Western Indians
is in consequence of the treaty of Easton,2 from which Invitations
were sent to them by the earnest advice, and with the Concurrence
of General Forbes, & your Depy. Mr. Croghan. As to the present
Visit intended by the six Nations, the Governor desires me to
assure you, that it is quite unexpected, he having never sent to
them any Messages but only to urge them to fullfill their promise
of delivering up our prisoners remaining in their Country, and
that these Meetings are chargeable to the Province and very
disagreable to him —
The Governor further desires me to acquaint You that he
expects both sets of Indians in about two Months, that being his
Majestys Agent for Indian affairs, you may, if you please, either
be present yourself or order some of your Deputy s to attend,
that in case any thing should arise which might be of service
to his Majestys Interest it might be under your advice & direction.
If you should think of indulging Teedyuscung on his desire
of having his differences heard in this Province, I will not fail
to give my attendance on the part of the Proprietors —
I am Sir &ca —
TO ROBERT LEAKE
Fort Johnson March /2th. 1762
Dear Sir
Your kind favour of the 3d. Ins*, with the Print of that day,
I yesterday had ye. pleasure to receive, for which I am much
1 Captain Henry (Andrew) Montour.
2 October, 1758.
3 In Franklin D. Roosevelt Library, Hyde Park, N. Y.
Seven Years' War 397
oblidged to you and congratulate [you] with you on our present
Success so far. —
with regard to the Tract of Land called Kayadarusseras which
you mean, at the time I made mention of it, I believe that Shares
might be reasonably purchased, but it is incredible how high in
value Lands are now grown, that Pattent is reckoned among those
Surreptiously obtained, therefore in my opinion not adviseable
to be concerned in, besides there are a great Number of People
who have shares in it, and liveing in different parts of the World,
which alone is a great inconveniency. —
As nothing would afford me greater pleasure than serveing a
friend, and encourageing the Settlement of the Country, with Brit-
tons, as well as haveing your Relation for a Neighbour, I shall
readily, and chearfully give You all the advice and assistance I can
towards the purchase of some Land for him, but it would be
necessarry first to know what quantity he might want, —
this you are to observe, that there is no buying any Lands
[nolp] at present from ye. Indians, so that what is bought now,
must be from those who have already pattented Lands. —
I am truely Sir
Yr. hearty Welwisher and Humble Serv1.
W. Johnson
Robt. Leake Esqr. —
INDORSED:
12* March 1762
Sir Wm Johnson Bart
rec'd 20* D°.
398 Sir William Johnson Papers
CONFERENCE WITH CANASADAGA INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Report of Cap1. Dan1. Claus's proceedings at Canassadaga with
the Indians there, Dated Montreal 15th. March 1762
His Excellency Major Gen1. Gage having desired Cap1. Claus,
Depy. Agent for Indian affairs to make all possible enquiry,
what belts of Wampum were sent during the Autumn 1 760.
and the Spring following by the way of Oswegatchy to the five
Nations, and from thence to the Northern Indians, and by whom,
with the substance thereof, and whether the Clergy of Canada
might not be suspected to have a hand therein, he was further
required to find out the person (a Frenchman) who passed
amongst the Indians by the Name of Taghtaghquisera and what
message he sent in December last by three Canassadago Indians,
one of them named Joseph, Nephew of one Simon an half breed
Trader at Canasadaga — ,
Cap'. Claus thereupon went to Canasadaga, and made the
most strict enquiry in private relative thereto, after which he
had a Publick Meeting of the Chiefs of that Village, the result
of both which was, that he was given to understand that after
the reduction of that Country, the Oswegatchy Indians finding
themselves deprived of their Priest, applied to the Clergy of S'.
Sulpice to replace that Mission, but said Clergy finding it incon-
venient to send, or continue one at Oswegatchy, proposed in a
Meeting held at Canasadaga by the Indians of that Town, &
where their Chiefs, and most of that Nation then resided, to
erect a Mission about 7 or 8 Leagues down the River from
Oswegatchy, at this Meeting were several of the Clergy of Sl.
Sulpitius present, but not the Vicar. The Same Spring several
reports were spread, and Messages with belts of Wampum were
sent amongst them from the Chenussios that a numerous English
Army was preparing to cut off the praying Indians of Canada,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; enclosed in Johnson
to Amherst, April 1, 1762, Johnson Papers, 3:664.
Seven Years' War 399
but they knowing the Six Nations to be fond of sending alarming
news & messages returned the belts without giving credit thereto,
and at the same time acquainted General Gage therewith —
With regard to the Frenchman who went by the Name of
Taghtaghquisera they never knew, or heard of any other person
of that name excepting Monsr. Longeuil, Seigneur of the Cedars
who went to France on the surrender of Canada. Simon the
half breed Trader has a son in law called Joseph, whose Sirname
is Feifer born at Burnetsneld on the Mohock River who was
taken in the beginning of the last War, when a boy and Speaks
Arundax, but very little Iroquois, and who never meddled with
any publick business, neither was he employed in carrying mes-
sages —
The Chiefs of Canasadaga, by the before mentioned, & other
occurring questions put to them, being apprehensive that Gen1.
Gage suspected them of some evil design, begged of Capt Claus
to assure his Excellency in the most solemn manner of their Sin-
cerity and friendship for the English, and therefore hoped he
would drop any suspicious thoughts with regard to them they
being too sensible of the blessings of peace, and a mild & quiet
Government after feeling the miseries of a tedious War still recent
in their memories, to promote, or engage in fresh hostilities, which
might probably terminate in their destruction —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 17lh. March 1762.
Sir,
A Few days ago I received a Letter from Majr. Gladwin,2
Informing me of a Discovery he had made of the Evil Intentions
of the Indians, Stirred up thereto, by the Priests and Jesuits:
Altho' this Intelligence appears to me altogether wild and Im-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Gladwin to Amherst, March 5, 1762, ante, p. 394.
400 Sir William Johnson Papers
probable, I think proper to Acquaint You therewith, & therefore
I Enclose You a Copy of Major Gladwin's Letter, & have only
to Observe, that if there Should be any Truth in the Affair, the
Priests as well as the Indians, are greater Fools than ever I took
them for, as any attempt to Disturb Us, at this time, must only
End in their own Destruction; As Major Gladwin has Reported
the Whole to Governor Gage he will take Every method in his
power to find out whether there is any foundation for that part
which Accuses the Grand Vicar, Clergy &ca. of Montreal, of
being Concerned in the Plot; In the meantime, You will please
to Make no further Use of this than You think proper, as I
would not Suppose those Gentlemen Guilty of Such behavior
without Sufficient proofs. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson, Bar'.
FROM FREDERICK HALDIMAND
A. L. S.1
Mont Real le 17 Mars 1762
Monsieur
Y ayant un Drappeau a vendre dans le B" (que j'ay l'honneur
de Commander) je me fais Un plaisir Monsieur, de vous 1'offrir
pour Monsr. Votre fils; Si vous le destines au Militaire, & qu'il
y aye du gout, je Crois qu'il poura apprendre bien des Choses
Utiles; vous pouriez au reste etre perSuade de la Satisfaction
que j'auray a lui rendre Service: & a vous themoigner le parfait
devouement avec lequel j'ay l'honneur d'etre
Monsieur
Votre tres humble
& tres obeissant Serviteur
Fred: Haldimand
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
Seven Years' War 401
P:S: Si vous acceptes l'offre
Cy dessus, il faudroit Monsieur
en ecrire immediattement au
General Amherst, a qui j'a[i] Marque
la proposition que je vous ay faitte, & qui je Suis persuade
l'approuvera
INDORSED:
Montreal 17th March
1762
Letter
from ColR Haldiman
in French —
Translation
Sir
There being a commission for sale in the battalion (which I have
the honor to command) I take pleasure, Sir in offering it to your
son. If you destine him for military service and he has a liking
for it, I think that he will well be able to learn some useful things.
Furthermore you may be assured of the satisfaction which it
will give me to render him a service and to prove to you the
perfect devotion with which I have the honor to be
Sir,
Your very humble
and very obedient servant
Fred : Haldimand
P. S. If you accept the above offer
you should write, Sir, immediately
about it to General Amherst, to whom
I have mentioned the proposition
which I have made to you, and
who, I am sure, will approve it.
402 Sir William Johnson Papers
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[March 19-20, 1762]
March 19th.
Two Conajoharee Indians dispatched by the Sachems of
that Castle, with a string of Wampum, waited on Sir William
and informed him that Serihorvanee, one of their Chiefs who
last fall went a hunting to Otseningo,2 v/as newly returned, and
had informed them, that he was told hy some Indians from
Chenussio, that Kinderuntie (alias Blue Cheeks) had last fall
made up a party of 600 Warriors of different Nations to the
Southward, to whom he proposed an attack upon Niagara,
which they were unwilling, but had agreed to surprize Fort Pitt;
and that the Senecas had not since that time received any intel-
ligence from him, at which they were much surprized —
Serihowanee, was likewise informed, that at the same time 6
Delawares had set out in order to obtain satisfaction for the
murder of some of their people by the English, but were restrained
by their Sachems from committing hostilities for some time, in
expectation that the Affair would have been made up, which not
being done, the Indians had now proceeded to procure satisfac-
tion for the same —
Sir William in answer, thanked the Sachems of Conajoharee
for their intelligence, and desired the Messengers to inform them,
that as the Meeting with the Six Nations was so shortly to take
place, he then expected to be informed thereof, if such a thing
had been in Agitation, to which he could scarcely be induced to
pay any credit —
20^.
Two Soldiers of the 80th. Reg1, arrived with a packet from
Major Gladwin Commanding at Fort William Augustus to Sir
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Chenango.
Seven Years War 403
Jeff. Amherst & another containing a Letter and Duplicates for
Sir Wm. Johnson of which the following are Copies1 —
FROM TEEDYUSCUNG
Contemporary Copy2
Wyomink 20ih March, 1762
Answer from Teedyuscung dated Wyomink 1 9th March, 1 762.
When I David Zisberger arrived at Wyomink, I delivered
Sir William Johnsons Letter to Teedyuscung, and got it trans-
lated to him whereupon he called his Council, and after con-
sulting with them, the next day being the 20th. of March he gave
the following Answer3 —
Brother, SlR WlLLIAM JOHNSON,
I am very glad to receive your Letter, by which I am informed
that you did not get an answer to your Letter I received from
you two Years ago — Now I inform you that when I received
your Letter, I immediately sent you an Answer from Bethlehem,
and this last fall I sent a Seven rowed belt of Wampum by
Francis a Mohikan Indian — When I received your Letter at
Bethlehem I was upon my Journey to Ohio, and when I opened
the Letter & found that it was about the Lands, and I being then
busy with other affairs, I thought it proper to let the Land affairs
stand until I should return home again and be at rest, then we
would finish that matter about the Lands — And by the belt I
have sent to you last fall I did let you know that I was now at
rest and stretched out my hand and took you by the hand and
1 The letter: Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1762, ante p. 394; the
duplicates: Gladwin to Amherst, Feb. 24, 1762, ante p. 384; Gladwin
to Amherst, Feb. 25, 1762, ante p. 385; Gladwin to Amherst, March 5,
1 762, ante p. 392.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 See Pennsylvania Archives, First Series, 4:74-75, for Zeisberger's
letter dated Wioming, March 19, 1 762, with substantially the same report.
See Johnson to Richard Peters, April 21,1 762, Johnson Papers, 3:687.
David Zeisberger was the Moravian Missionary.
404 Sir William Johnson Papers
told you to come to Philadelphia in six Months time, when we
should settle the affair of the Lands —
And now Brother, I return you an Answer to your letter I
received the 19th. March 1 762 by a Messenger from the Governor
of Philadelphia and finding now that you are put in Trust to see
the Indians done justice, we are now no more strangers to one
another — I take you by the hand and desire you to come to
Philadelphia in two Months time, for I find that I can put my
trust in no body but only in you, and by the space of two Months
I and the rest of my people shall be in readiness —
Gave a String
Tadeyuskung Chiefs of the
A true Copy of TADBESKOHON Delawares at
Teedyuscungs Answer Wyoming —
delivered to me
Richard Peters by
David Zeisberger
R. Peters
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson 20th. March 1762
Sir
I am to acknowledge the receipt of your Excelled, favour of
the 14th. Ult°.2 in answer to mine, encloseing a Copy of Confer-
ences with the Indians. —
As Your Excellency is of opinion that no Lands have been
taken up without first satisfying the Indians for the same, it will
be necessary for me to assure You, it is notorious, that they have
been frequently overreached, and defrauded greatly by Persons
taking up small Tracts from a few Indians, whom they have
often made drunk to bring them to their purpose, and have after-
wards by false Surveys &ca., included in the Pattents much more
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ante p. 382.
Seven Years' War 405
lands than were Sold by the Indians, which they have not been
able to discover until of late Years, by seeing us Settleing thereon,
of all which I could give many Examples. —
Herewith I inclose your Excellency a Packet from Major
Gladwin, which I this day received by two Soldiers of his
garrison dispatched for that purpose accompanied by a Coghna-
waga Indian mentioned in the Majors letter1 to You which he has
furnished me with a Coppy of. —
I have examined the Indian with regard to the Intelligence
mentioned in the letter to your Excellency. He seems in a great
measure to corroborate what is therein sayed, and accounts for it
from the Belts which had last year been sent amongst all the
Indians throughout the Continent to stirr them up to a War with
Us, wh. was not yet laid aside by them all, but was still he Judged
pushed on, and inflamed by their Preists and Jesuits resideing
amongst them. — It appears to me and is what I always expected
that they must be greatly discontented on finding a treatment
verry different from that, to which they had been accustomed,
as well as alarmed and jealous of our power since the reduction
of Canada, which disposition the French had filled their Heads
with long ago, by telling them, we should then fall upon and
destroy them, and I am of opinion there are not wanting Em-
missaries, particularly amgst. their Clergy who make it their
business to continue the Indians in that way of thinking, by
aggravateing circumstances, feeding them up with expectations
of the French becomeing again possessed of the Country, as
well as by everry means which artifice can suggest to render
us obnoxious to them. —
Yesterday I was informed by an Indian from the Conajohare
Castle, who has been hunting for some time ab*. Otseningo on
the Susquahana River, that he heard there was a party of about
600 Southern Indians of different Nations who had assembled
themselves, and left their Habitations with a design to Surprise
Fort Pitt, or some other of our Garrisons, that they were headed
1 See Gladwin to Amherst, March 5, 1762, ante p. 392.
406 Sir William Johnson Papers
by a dissafected Chenussio who was principally concerned in
sending the Belt last Year to the Detroit, but my Informer had
heard nothing further concerning them, if there be any truth
therein, I expect Mr. Croghan will be able to discover, and
prevent the same. —
I am hopefull that at the meeting of the Six Nations (who I
have expected some time, and hear are now on their way hither)
I shall be able to find out the particulars of all the before-mentioned
Intelligence, as well as use my endeavour to prevent their carrying
any design into execution to the interruption of the public tran-
quility.
I have the honour to be with
the greatest esteem Sir
Your Excellencys most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Ne»> York, 21st- March 1762.
Sir,
Since mine of the 1 7th.,2 which You will Receive herewith, I
have two Other Letters from Major Gladwin, Containing Some
further Accounts of that Wild Incomprehensible Design of the
Indians, to Which I cannot give Credit, notwithstanding the
Major thinks he has procured very Strong proofs of the plot
being real. —
I However Judge it proper that You Should be Acquainted
with what I know of the matter, & therefore Enclose You Copys
of Major Gladwin's Letters, that You may make what use thereof
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 399.
Seven Years9 War 407
You Shall think best ; And I Doubt not but Governor Gage will
be able to Come at the Truth, if there is the least Foundation for
the Accusation of the People of Montreal. —
I am, with great Truth & Regard,
Sir,
Sir William Johnson, Baronet.
TO FREDERICK HALDIMAND
A. Df. S.1
[March 24, 1762]
Dear Sir
Captn. Claus this day delivered me your verry polite and
[freindly letter]2 kind favour of the 17th. Ins1.
I am extremely oblidged to You for [j;our] the verry kind
intentions [and offer of services] towards My Son and freindly
Sentiments [towards my son, as therein] expressed in yr. letter.
I am [a/so] verry sensible that he could acquire as much military
knowledge in your Corps, particularly [n>/ien] under your direc-
tion as in any Corps Whatsoever, [these must be ye. greatest in-
ducements to any young man I would therefore] & if he had an
inclination for the Army [have preferred] the foregoing reasons &
encouragements would have doubtless led me as well as him to
prefer Your Battalion. — [ ] in the beginning of the
War he was verry desireous of going into the Army, but his
Youth then and not haveing finished his Learning prevented my
indulging his inclination [at that time,] and now he says, as the
War is near at an End, he does not think it would look well for
him to enter into the Army. — and as he is come to the years
1 This Df. was written on the back of Haldimand's letter to Johnson
of March 1 7, 1 762, ante p. 400, and is to be found in the Historical Society
of Pennsylvania.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the maunscript.
408 Sir William Johnson Papers
of discretion I allow him his own turn of Mind. /— we have
nothing new here, but what You see verry near as soon as we
in the papers, [/ hope] we daily expect to hear of the reduction
of Martinico.1 —
I am with perfect esteem,
Dear Sir
Y'. &ca
Coll°. Frederick Haldimand —
W. J.—
TO JOHN BRADSTREET ETC.
In the Auction Catalogue of Charles F. Heartman, Metuchen, New
Jersey, Jan. 24, 1931, were listed two holograph letters of Sir William
Johnson, present location unknown: To Colonel John Bradstreet, Johnson
Hall, March 7, 1 762 : "Since my last to you, the Barer, Red Head, with
a few of his Nation arrived, and inform me, that the greatest part of the
Six Nations are on their way hither, and will be here in a few days. As he
imagines to bring about a Peace between Us, and the Chenussies, of whom
there is a great Number comeing.
"After this meeting is over I shall be able to form a thorough Judgement
to the Sentiments of the Indians in General, and what I shall be able to do
with them. Even as affairs are now circumstanced, I am certain I can
provide that Number mentioned in my last, and probably many more to
act against the Enemy.
"Your taking notice of Red Head and those few with him, (who are
chiefly going down to trade) will have a good effect. This I need not
recommend to you, as you know what a mercenary kind of People they are,
and how to be gained by good treatment and presents."
Holograph letter of Sir William Johnson to unknown addressee, March
26, 1 762, quoted in part:
"Inclosed I send your Mr. Longs full account. I thought it was not
of much consequence to draw out all the Particular Accounts; moreover
it would be a tedious piece of Work. However, if it be requisite, please
to let me know and I will draw them all out. At first I had but his bare
word and Honour for the payment of the tenant's Debts, but since I have
had several Letters from him, and in his absence from his Wife conscerning
them, and acknowledging the Debt as his own. I am Sorry he Urges me
1 Martinique.
GENERAL FREDERICK HALDIMAND
Painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds. Courtesy of
Mrs W. L. Haldimand, Westmount, Quebec.
Seven Years War 409
to this proceeding, however, it being his fault, as I will plainly and to his
shame make appear, I cannot be blamed, nor Censured for Useing him as
he deserves. Therefore in as much as it requires haste, I beg you will use
your Utmost for the Recovery thereof, ..."
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[March 24-30, 1762.]
Capt Dan1. Claus Deputy Agent for Indian Affairs, arrived at
Fort Johnson from Montreal, and delivered Sir William several
papers,2 & proceedings relative to a Complaint by the Indians of
Caghnawaga concerning their Lands, of all which the following3
are Copys.
25*.
Ten Onondagas arrived, and acquainted Sir William that their
Nation were out of patience expecting the Chenussios & other
Senecas, whom they heard were collecting all the English prisoners
amongst their several Tribes, as well as those yet remaining with
the Delawares, and others — so that they judged it would be six,
or Eight days yet before they could be here; That the Oneidas,
Tuscaroras &ca as well as they, waited only the arrival of the
Chenussios — Sir William ordered these Onondagas provisions,
and sent them to the ground laid out for their encampment —
27*.
Five Abenaquis Chiefs, their Interpreter, and a Panis Slave
(whom they were to deliver up to the Stockbridge Indians)
arrived, and after paying their Compliments to Sir William, were
directed to the Quarters assigned them
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 See Report of an Indian Conference, Jan. 30, 1 762, ante p. 372.
Louis XVI's Letter of Gift and Concession to the Caghnawaga Indians,
May 29, 1680, ante p. 374, Decree of a Court, undated, ante, p. 376,
and Haldimand to Johnson, March 1 7, 1 762, ante p. 400.
3 The papers mentioned in note 2 above were submitted by Claus on his
arrival at Fort Johnson, and were entered in the Indian Records following
the prefatory statement above, dated March 24, 1 762.
410 Sir William Johnson Papers
The Abenaquis were called to a Meeting in order to declare
the purpose of their Errand —
Present
Sir William Johnson Bart
Capt Dan1. Claus Dep?. Agl. LA Johnson Secretary
Abraham alias Tayorheasere a Mohock Chief, & Cap1.
Dick a principal Warrior of Onondaga, some Cona-
joharees & the Abenaquis —
Sir William having desired the Interpreter to acquaint the
Abenaquis he was ready to hear them, accordingly Jean
Baptiste, als Wadongemit spoke as follows —
Father
Nothwithstanding the length, and fatigue of our journey hath
been very great, yet, the pleasure we receive on finding you Well,
on our arrival, hath sufficiently compensated us for our Labour,
and caused us to forget, all we have undergone — therefore with
these Strings of Wampum we Clear your sight, open your Ears, &
remove all uneasiness which may have had place in your breast —
String
Father
We acknowledge to have received your Summons last Spring,
but the great distress we have laboured under since the Destruction
of our Castle, together with the loss we have Since that sustained
by Fire rendered us unable to obey your Call until now — We
therefore hope you will not impute our delay to any bad Cause,
or attribute it to any wilfull neglect —
String
Father
For the reasons I have already mentioned we have been hitherto
scattered and dispersed so that we could not have a proper Meeting
upon your Messages concerning Capt Jacobs,1 and his Nation but
A Stockbridge Indian.
Seven Years' War 41 1
on receipt thereof last Spring we imediately collected as much
money as would purchase a Slave in order to accomodate all
differences between us, and our Brothers the Stockbridge Indians,
who had one of their Men killed by us; for which purpose we are
now come hither — As we Consider you as our Father we beg
your directions, & willingly submit ourselves to your Reproof if
we have been guilty of any mistake or neglect — and be assured
we esteem you as our real Friend & Father, and as such address
you —
gave a Belt
Father
We see the head of our Brothers the River Indians is bleeding,
occasioned by the Wound we have given them by the death of
one of their Nation whom we killed, and therefore with this belt
of wampum We take the Axe out of their Heads, and sink it in
a rapid Stream which shall drive it to the bottomless Sea, that it
can never again be found, and that all the past may be forever
forgotten
gave a belt
Then replaced the Man who was killed with a Panis Slave
whom they delivered up to Sir William to be sent by him to the
Stockbridge Indians, together with the 2 Belts of Wampum,
after which the speaker addressed Sir William as follows —
Father
We the Deputies of the Abenaquis Nation beg that after the
Ceremony of replacing their loss, you will be pleased to make the
same known to all the Indian Nations hereabouts, for that they may
forget what hath passed, and that an Everlasting friendship may
subsist between us, and our posterity; and we beg you will offer
them our Sincere Wishes and salutations —
gave a belt
Father
We pray to the great Being above, that he will from henceforth
guide, & rule our hearts, so that we may remain united with all
412 Sir William Johnson Papers
those Nations for ever hereafter, and form one large House
together so that we may live in strict Union as one Family and
with this belt we clean away all filth which we may have
occasioned —
A belt
Father
We have long wished to see you and our Brethren the Indians
in these parts, and it affords us now the utmost pleasure of meeting
you, and them here — as there were but a few of our people
at home when we set off, we could not think of any thing more to
conferr with you upon, but next summer when our People shall
be assembled, we hope to have a more ample Interview with You,
and shall therefore for the present make an end — » • ,
Sir William then told them that he had attended to what they
had sayed, and would on the Morrow say something to them —
The Mohocks, Onondagas, &ca likewise signified to them their
approbation of what they had done, after which the Meeting
broke up for that day —
29*
The Abenaquis Deputies &ca being assembled Sir William
spoke to them as follows —
Children of the Abenaquis Nation —
I bid you hearty Wellcome to my House, where there is a
Council fire always burning clear for the benefit & reception of all
Indians who are Friends to the English, and from your late Con-
duct I now receive your Nation amongst that number
3 Strings of Wampum
Children
As I am sensible of the fatigue you have undergone in your
Journey hither, at this severe Season of the Year — I with
these strings of Wampum wipe away the sweat from off your body,
and also pluck the thorns out of your feet, that you may be able
to return with ease and pleasure —
3 Strings
Seven Years' War 413
Children
With these Strings of Wampum, I dry up the Tears which you
have lately had occasion to shed, for the losses you sustained
thro' your own obstinacy, and ignorance, and I open also your
Eyes, that you may plainly discern your past folly (which I
expect you will never more repeat) and that you may take notice
of the favour & indulgence you enjoy under the English —
3 Strings
Children
I approve of the method you have taken to reconcile all
differences between your Nation, and the Stockbridge Indians,
which measures should always be taken as soon as possible but the
reasons you have given (which I am willing to believe are just)
for your delaying it so long, satisfy me, and be assured the
Stockbridge Indians will also be ready enough to make allowance
for your unavoidable delay, as well as contented with the satisfac-
tion you have made, which I shall imediately acquaint them with,
and call them to fetch the Prisoner — I shall likewise let all the
Surrounding Nations of Indians know (agreable to your request)
what you have now done, and that all Differences which have
subsisted between the River Indians, & you, are happily ac-
comodated A i i.
A belt
Children
I am pleased with your Endeavors and desire to live in friend-
ship with all the Nations of Indians in this quarter and I must
(as I have done to them) recommend it to you as the only sure
means of enjoying peace & happiness to live in the strictest Amity
with your New Friends the English — as also to collect your
people together in one Village, apply yourselves to your hunting,
planting and Trade, and leave off Rambling about through the
Country; by following which advice you will become more
respectable than you are at present, and as I expect you will
observe the same you may in that case depend upon his Britannick
Majestys fatherly protection, and the friendship of his Subjects
the English - A be]t
414 Sir William Johnson Papers
Children
There is one thing remaining which I must recommend to you
that is, that you do not for the future listen, or pay any regard to
evil reports, from any quarters whatsoever, to which I know the
Indians in General, and your people in particular are too ready
Upon several occasions to give credit, which I am induced to
impute to their Consciousness of having hitherto acted an unnatural
part against the English, who are notwithstanding so humane and
generous a people (of which you see daily proofs) that they will
readily forgive, and forget what hath passed, provided You behave
for the future as Friends, and Allies, which You Should,
and I expect you will do, as thereby you may depend on their
friendship and protection
A belt
Children
As You are now come into the Indian Confederacy of which I
have the Superintendency I must desire you will not enter into, or
hold any private or publick Meetings with any Nations of Indians
whatsoever, without my knowledge and approbation, as such
meetings must raise in us suspicions of the sincerity of your In-
tentions, & tend to overset the happy state, you now are entering
into — Whenever therefore you have anything of Moment
amongst you, I expect you will communicate the same to his
Majestys Governor of Trois Rivieres, or to Cap1. Claus my
Deputy at Montreal who will transmit it to me, as also acquaint
you with my sentiments and Answer thereon, as a means of
preventing your taking a long and fatiguing Journey to my
House —
A belt
To which the Speaker of the Abenaquis made answer
Father
Your Speech in Answer to ours has in all respects given us
inexpressible Satisfaction, but as there are only a few of us here,
and those Chiefly young people, we cannot pretend to give you a
proper and sufficient Answer thereupon, Wherefore we beg leave
Seven Years' War 415
to deferr it to another opportunity, that in the mean time we may
lay what you have sayed before the Chiefs and Leaders of our
Nation to have a General Consultation thereupon —
30*.
The Abenaquis desired another Meeting with Sir William
and after assembling, their Speaker addressed him as follows
Father
We have a few words more to say, after which we shall have
entirely done, and take our leave —
We look upon our Journey to have been very favourable to us,
in that we have had the pleasure, (by divine permission), of
finding you, our Father in Good health — Our request now is
concerning the performance of Divine service amongst us, for
which purpose we were always used to have two Clergymen
appointed but, since the destruction of our Village Mr. Robeaud1
alone remains with us, and as he is generally indisposed, he cannot
perform the Service singly, which we were accustomed to have
three times a day — We therefore address ourselves to you as the
Superintendant of our Affairs, that we may have the Clergyman
who left us, recalled, so that we may not forget, or Neglect our
prayers, especially, in case our Nation collect themselves to their
Village as you have recommended —
to which Sir William Johnson replyed
Children
On the Reduction of Canada His Excellency Sir Jeffery
Amherst was pleased to permit the free use of their Religion not
only to the French Inhabitants, but also to the Indians living
in that Country, which is an indulgence they, and you, should
never forget, and as to the number of Missionaries proper for
each Nation, that must be left entirely to the determination of
the Clergy who have always managed those affairs, and will no
doubt do what is necessary therein —
1 Roubaud, Jesuit missionary to the Abenakis.
416 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO THOMAS FITCH
A.L.1
Johnson Hall March 30th. 1762
Sir
Herewith I transmit you a Speech made by the Mohocks at my
House, together with a Belt of Wampum which I was requested
by the Indians to lay before you.
I had the pleasure of writing you after the Departure of Col1.
Fitch & Mr Chew2 last Summer who came to me on the affair
of the Susquehanna Company, which Letter I hope you have
received.
A Few Days ago Col1. Eliphalet Dyer, & Mr. Woodbridge of
Stockbridge arrived here and acquainted me with their having
been charged with a Sum of money to pacify the Inds. & make
matters easy, & that they expected to have met ye. Six Nations at
Albany, in consequence of an Invitation sent them last year by
one Smith of New England then at Susquehanna. I informed
them that the Inds. had certainly no such intention, as they were all
with me a few days before & had said nothing thereof, I then
gave these Gentlemen my Sentiments as I had done to Col1. Fitch,
& represented that the 6 Nations would never agree thereto, & that
the putting their plan in Execution would inevitably bring on a
rupture with the Inds. in General which would not only be severely
felt by the Settlers, but would involve all the Neighbouring
frontiers in an Indian War, — they replyed that as the Company
had the House of Representatives permission, & right given up to
them, by virtue of the Claim of Connecticut to the Westward,
& as they had obtd. a Deed, & Expended much money thereon,3
1 In Library of American Antiquarian Society, unsigned. The first
four paragraphs of this letter were printed in Johnson Papers, 3:660-61 ;
the entire letter is given here to make clear the context.
2 Col. Thomas Fitch and Joseph Chew.
3 See speech of Timothy Woodbridge, April 28, in Johnson Papers,
3:715-17.
Seven Years' War 417
they were determined to persist in their undertaking, & would
shortly settle there to a Considerable number, sufficient to maintain
themselves in the possession thereof.
At the time of these Gentlemens Arrival the Mohocks were
all Assembled in Meeting at my House & on being made ac-
quainted with the Cause of their Errand, which they Expressed
a Desire to know, they showed the utmost uneasiness, declaring
such measures would certainly occasion the whole 6 Nations
& their Confederates to commence hostilities; after which the
Mohocks returned home & two Days ago delivered me the Speech
& Belt herewith Enclosed desiring the same might be transmitted
to you, for your timely interposition therein.
From my certain knowledge of the Sentiments of the Indians,
on the Steps taken to obtain the Indian Deed, & their determined
resolution, not to part with the Lands in Question (thro' which is
their great War path, & where they have very good hunting) I
cannot but be convinced there is a necessity for your taking the
same into farther Considerate & interposing the Authority of
Governm*. in some more Effectual manner to prevent the Effusion
of Blood, & the Depopulating of the Frontiers, wctl must Inevitably
follow if the same should be prosecuted.
The Evils which I plainly foresee, must attend such Settlement
and my certainty that you will use every endeavor to prevent the
same are the only inducements which I have to give you this farther
trouble in the affair — or l ii .. r? *
Believe me to be with great bsteem
Sir
&ca
The Honble GovR. FlTCH
INDORSED;
Johnson Hall March 30th 1 762
Letter to Govr. Fitch, desiring
his Interposition concerns the people
of Connecticut's settling on the Susquehanna
& Enclose the Mohocks Speech and
Belt thereon —
418 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO ROBERT LEAKE
A.L.S.1
Fort Johnson April Is1. 1762
Dear Sir
Your favour of the 22d ult°.2 I have received, and return
you thanks for your promise of transmitting me the first news from
home, Cr Martinico which I hope may prove agreable. — I am
sorry to hear that any Party Papers should be undertaken at a
time when so much unanimity is requisite, and expected from Us,
as Such writeings always tend to a bad purpose, as that of promote-
ing feuds and civil dissentions in a Government.
The order of his Majesty concerning Lands in this Country, will
considerably raise them in value & consequently make the Pro-
prietors of them to be high in their demands. — I realy know of
no Lands at present to be disposed of near the Mohawk River,
there is a Tract of about Six thousand acres Scituate near Fort
Hunter, and within a mile or thereabouts of the Mohawk River,
in the possession of Coll. Glen of Schenectady and the Heirs of
the late Lieu1. Governour Delancey,3 which I believe would
answer your Nephews purpose, provided they could be induced to
sell the Same, which I doubt not they may, at least Mr. Delancey's4
Share, as his Father offerred it me some Years ago verry reason-
able, I have been informed that this Land is better for grass in
generall than grain.
Whenever I may hear of any land near the River to be
disposed of, which I think would suit him, I shall not fail, to
acquaint you therewith, as well as to do you any service in my
1 In Franklin D. Roosevelt Library, Hyde Park, N. Y.
2 See Johnson Calendar, p. 1 29.
3 James DeLancey ( 1 703- 1 760) .
4 James DeLancey (1 732-1800), eldest son of the lieutenant governor.
Seven Years' War 419
power towards procureing the same, as I am with sincerity, and
real Esteem,
Dear Sir, your Hearty Welwisher
and Humble Serv*.
WM. Johnson
Robert Leake Esqr.
indorsed :
1 **. April 1 762
Sir Wm. Johnson Bart
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
April 2, 1762
April 2«*.
Gawehe an Oneida Chief with others of his Nation arrived
and acquainted Sir William with the uneasy situation of his people,
on account of the Senecas backwardness in coming to the intended
Meeting, and that both the Oneidas, and Onondagas have im-
patiently expected their coming, that finding them so slow in
Moving they had sent belts by some of their people to hasten
them but the Messengers were not returned when he left his
Nation, he added that all the Sachems of Oneida were to set
out on their journey to attend the meeting, within three, or four
days after his departure —
Sir William ordered them provisions and directed them to
their quarters —
In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
420 Sir William Johnson Papers
AMHERST TO JOHNSON, BRADSTREET ET AL.
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 3d- April 1762.
Sir,
By the Enterprize Man of War, which Arrived here the 1 st.
Instant, I had the Honor of a Letter from His Majesty's Principal
Secretary of State, Acquainting me of the King's having De-
clared War against Spain, And in the Declaration, which was
this day publickly Proclaimed here, the Just & Indispensible
Reasons that Obliged His Majesty to take that measure, are
fully Explained
I am, &ca.
NB. The Above to Sir Wm. Johnson; & to Colonel Bradstreet.
Likewise to the following Officers, with the Additions, as set
against Each of their Names. —
To the Officer Commanding
at Albany "I am therefore to Desire that this may be
known to the Officers & Soldiers *at Albany, &
the Communication to Fort Miller Inclusive."
Crown point *at your post, & the Communication to Fort
Edward, Inclusive.
Fort Stanwix at your post, & the Communication to
Schenectady, Inclve.
Fort Ontario at your post, & the Communicate to the
East End of Oneida Lake, Inclve.
Niagara at your Post.
Detroit at the Several Posts within your District.
Fort Pitt at your post, & the Communication.
Louisbourg under your Command.
NB. P.S. To Cap*. Campbell at the Detroit.
Your Letter of the 6th. Feb?, is this moment come to
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Seven Years' War 421
hand : but as it contains only a Copy of Yours of the
1 0th. Janr>\ which Arrived safe, & was Answered by
me, on the 21st. March, I need only Acknowledge
it. —
FROM HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy1
Fort William Augustus, April 4th 1762
DRSir
I enclose you herewith a Duplicate of a Letter2 I wrote to
General Amherst this day ; I wrote3 you by Cain4 some time ago,
I hope he has reached you ere this; I think its very Evident that
our Scoundrel Enemies below, are Stirring up the Indians every
where to do mischief; I could wish my intelligence met with a
more favourable reception in that quarter, but I find instead
of striking at the root, the Indians are threatned to be drove off
the face of the Earth, this still is nothing new to you, therefore, I
need say no more about it, but I sincerely wish your intelligence
may Concurr with mine which may be a means of bringing these
Traitors to justice, I beg you will present my Compliments to Mr.
Johnson, and believe me to be Dear Sir
&ca —
P.S. The other Day I received
my Commission as Major to the 80th.
Regf. bearing date in Decr. 1 760
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Gladwin to Amherst, April 4, 1762, Johnson Papers, 3:670.
3 Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1 762, ante p. 394.
4 Meni Chesne.
422 Sir William Johnson Papers
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST1
Contemporary Copy2
Fort William Augustus, April 4th, 1762
Sir
Since my last to your Excellency of the 24th. March, one of
the Oswegatchy Chiefs came to Oswegatchy ; Capt McLeod3 who
commands there, questioned them concerning the meeting at
Frontenac, in answer to which, he replied, that he would tell the
real truth in gratitude for the many civilities he had met with here,
he then said, the Meeting was to take place about the Twentieth
of May, and to consist of a very large body of Indians, Viz, all
the Five Nations, Misisagaes, Abnaquis, and Oswegatchies, that
they were to be joyned there by the Northern Indians, who are
to Surprize our Posts on their way thither, if they can ; that their
grand push is to be at Oswegatchy, for the provisions, and
afterwards, they are to harrass the Communication; some of the
head Men of Conesadaga, and Caghnawaga, are to be at the
Meeting who are immediately to proceed with the result of the
Council to Conesadaga, I think this looks as if they intended to
joyn them; My informer desires I would send an Officer to
hear what passes, as well as to convince us that he is a friend to
the English —
In my last I acquainted your Excellency, that the Indians came
in after the alarm to renew their friendship, upon a Messenger
coming among them from below ; since which, I learn from another
of the Oswegatchy Chiefs, that S*. Luke Le Corn, and Monsieur
Larimie,4 sent a Caghnawaga Indian to tell them, not to make
peace with the English upon any terms, this Message soon followed
the other, therefore, I take it for granted, from this, and other
circumstances, that their renewal of friendship, was only a blind;
1 Enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, April 4, 1762, ante p. 421
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Normand McLeod.
4 Probably "Lorimier."
Seven Years' War 423
he likewise says, that the Clergy of Conesadaga, and Tarraugh,
a Chief of that Village, were the first promoters of Mischief this
way; he was then asked if Monsr. Larimie was concerned with
them, he replied they were all as one —
Yesterday a Coghanawaga Indian came here, he has often been
of use to the Garrison, in which he always found his account, for
this reason I thought him a proper hand to question about the
practises of our Enemies below, he immediately replied he would
tell me all he knew, in Substance as follows, That immediately
after the reduction of Canada, the Priest of Aquasasnagh1 made
four very large belts, after the Chiefs of that Village had declared
they would have no hand in it ; that two of these belts were sent to
the Northern Indians by S*. Luke LeCorn, the other two came
this way, and the meaning of them was, that a French fleet, and
Army would come over the ensueing spring to retake Canada,
that now was their time, to rise and recover their Country; he
likewise says, last fall the priest of Aquasasnagh, made the like
number of belts as the year before, which were delivered in the
same manner, with this difference only, that the Spaniards would
joyn the French, and that they were invited to assemble at
Frontenac ; these belts were sent off just before Sl. Luke LeCorn
took his departure for France ; he has likewise given me the names
of all the principal promoters of this affair, who are (he says)
all equally concerned, I enclose you herewith their Names;
Besides these Belts, and the Grand belt that is to be delivered at
D' etroit, I Have reason to believe from concurring Circumstances,
that the Clergy, and their Agents, have sent Messages or belts
to all the Indians with whom the French have ever had any
Communication; I have prevailed with my Informer to go to
Montreal to tell General Gage what he knows —
My Informer who went to the five Nations some time ago,
sent me a letter from thence which came to hand Yesterday, he says
that all the Indians that way will rise to a Man to take Oswegatchy
I am &ca —
1 Aughquisasne, Aquisasne.
424 Sir William Johnson Papers
Names1 of the Persons concerned in promoting the affair men-
tioned in the foregoing Intelligence —
Monsieur Sl. Luc Le Corne
Monsr. Lorimier
Monsr. Partouis, a Priest
Monsr. Ohybeaux, a Priest
Gautchytayraks, Indn. Name of a Merch*. at Montreal
Tyaunatoranks, an Oswegatchy Indian
Conasadaga Priests
Priest at Sainte Registe
HENRY GLADWIN TO JEFFERY AMHERST2
Contemporary Copy3
Fort Wm. Augustus, April 5lh 1762
Sir
Since writing the enclosed, my informer says, as he had told
me part, he would now tell me all, provided that I would assure
1 Also enclosed in Gladwin to Amherst, April 4, 1762, ante p. 421.
2 Evidently enclosed in Gladwin to Johnson, April 4, 1 762, with
Gladwin to Amherst, April 4, 1 762, ante p. 422. The entry in Indian
Records, Vol. 6, by Guy Johnson was made on May 2, 1 762, and there
is a marginal note that reads "V. [vide] page 1 72 [refers to location
of Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1762, (ante p. 394.) in the Indian
Records, Vol. 6,] for the first letters regardg this plot, which actually was
put into Execution the year followg. G JOHNSON Secy."
A full list of the documents embodying Gladwin's reports, up through
April 5, 1 762, is as follows.
Gladwin to Amherst, Feb. 4, 1 762.
Gladwin to Amherst, Feb. 24, 1 762.
Gladwin to Amherst, Feb. 25, 1 762.
Gladwin to Amherst, March 5, 1762.
Gladwin to Johnson, March 5, 1 762.
Gladwin to Johnson, April 4, 1 762.
Gladwin to Amherst, April 4, 1762.
Gladwin to Amherst, April 5, 1 762.
3 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 425
him, that he should never be called in question about it, upon
which I satisfied him on that head, he then said, that last fall,
Sl. Luc LeCorne, and the Priest of Aquasasnagh, delivered seven
belts to Monsieur Deroche, known among the Indians by Name of
Aagistagese (Just before Sl. Lukes1 departure for France) that
he and four other Canadians, carried them to the Northern Indians,
delivered some belts there, afterwards they returned to Montreal
by way of Detroit, and thro' the five Nations, delivering their
belts and Messages by the way, and inviting all the Indians to
assemble at Frontenac early in Spring, in order to attack
Oswegatchy, and harrass the Communication, That a French, and
Spanish fleet was coming to retake Canada, and now was their time
to rise and recover their Country, he likewise says, as they passed
this way, they delivered three belts one to each of the following
Nations, Viz — Misisagaes, Abanaquis, and Oswegatchys, that
these belts were accepted by them, but the Coghnawagas, and
Conossadagas refused to receive any, he further says that these
belts were not made by the Priest of Aquasasnagh they were
made under his Eye, by an Abenaquis Woman, and by his
direction — About the end of January last, five Canadians Came
hither from Mischilimackinac by way of Detroit and thro the five
Nations, they went from hence to Montreal with Capt Le Hunte;
In my last to General Gage of the 24th. March, I mentioned that
I suspected them to be belt-Carriers, since which I find it proves to
be very true; I shall send a Duplicate of this to General Gage,
by the Indian who informed me of the above, he says he will
tell all below —
I am Sir &ca —
The forgoing2 are true Copies from
the Originals
G Johnson as Secy.
1 La Corne St. Luc, Luc de Chapt de.
2 Referring to Gladwin to Johnson, April 4, 1 762, ante p. 421 Gladwin
to Amherst, April 4, 1 762, ante p. 422 ; and Gladwin to Amherst, April
5, 1 762, ante p. 424, as entered in the Indian Records and here certified
by Guy Johnson as Secretary.
426 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM WILLIAM WALTERS
A. L. S.1
Niagara 5ih: April 1762 —
Dear Sir
I take the first opportunity to pay my Respects to You and to
acquaint You that an Idle fellow a Stockbridge Indian that was
taken prisoner When in Major Rogers' Rangers was Delivered
to Me by some Indians Last Summer which I Sent to oswego in
order for him to Return to his whome,2 since then he has been here
back & forward as a Batteau man and this winter he was at
oswego and brought Some Letters for this Garrison, 'Since his
return he got in Company with Some Chipowa Indians & has made
great Uneasiness a mongst that nation by telling them that the
Light Infantry had Scalpd. two of their Tribe and had carried
two of their Children off with them & also told them that the
reason that the English did not give them ammunition as usual,
was that they Intended to come and Destroy the Indians, which
a number of them beleived it was true, as the Stockbridge Indian
talks good English and had been at oswego, the old Chief that
went with you to Detroit Last Summer told me this and said he did
not believe what was Talkd. but Said it had made some Ignorant
Indians very uneasy and that he had been at the trouble to
Send Several Hundred miles round about to their Castles to assure
them that it was Lies that was Talkd. Leting them know he had
been Several times this winter with his Brother at Niagara and
was always Received Kindly and was Shure that he would tell
him no Lies — I took a great Dale of pains to assure him that
the English Lookd. on them as faithfull good brothers and would
always use them kindly, the old chief Desired me to keep the
Stockbridge Indian here untill I could Send him whome2 and not
to Suffer him to go to Detroit, saying, should he meet with Some
poor Ignorant Indians he might make great uneasiness a mongst
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 "home."
Seven Years' War All
them I Shall Send this Indian to oswego by the first opportunity
that he may proceed to his whome2 he is a poor Idle Drunken
fellow —
I find by General Amhersts Letter which I Recd. 27th. March
that He is not willing any thing Should be given to the Indians,
I Dont See how it is Possible to Avoid it, I have had, great,
numbers of poor Indians at this post this two winters past which
I have Supported Chiefly with fish Which cost no Expence I have
some times given them a pound or two of powder with a Little
Ball in order to keep them Alive Which I have Don at a very Easy
rate, or Else Some of them Must have Starv'd they Even Collected
all the Guts and off el of the fish the Soldiers caught here to Support
nature therefore in compassion I cannot help giving them a Little
Support
You Will Know how necessary it is in the Summer to give the
Indians some Smale preasents with a L ittle ammunition and Pro-
vision when a number of them comes many Hundred miles to
Trade at a season they can get but very Little to Subsist on I
mention this as You are sencible how necessary it is to give the
Indians a Little Support, I have been at a great dale of trouble to
Convince them of the good Intention that the English has towards
them, I Should be glad You Would be pleased to represent this
affair to General Amherst that I May have it in my power to
assist the Indians a Little
You Know they are a jealous people and Should we hold our
hand Intirely from them — they will be Easily made beleive We
Intend them Some hurt —
the Black Smith is not returnd. he is much Wanted, old Belt
has been here Several times this Winter he has made Some of the
Indians bring back four Horses Which was stole from us Last
Summer we have Still two a missing He is a good old fellow
& I always Receive him Kindly and give him a Little Ammunition
& provision I shall be greatly perplex't with the Indians this
Summer If I have not the means to give them a Little help I
428 Sir William Johnson Papers
wrote to you in Novr Last Which I hope you Recd. I beg my
Complement to Mr. Johnson & to Captn. Johnson
I am Dear Sir With great Esteem —
Your most obedient
Humble Servant
WM Walters
Sir Wm Johnson Baronet
INDORSED :
Niagara 5th April 1 762 —
Letter from Major Walters
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[April 9-10 J 762]
9th.
Ganughquausa, Tagwaron, and others of the Oneida Nation
arrived — Sir Wm. recd. a Letter from Sir Jeff Amherst acqt§.
him wth. the reductn. of Martinico2
10*.
Two Onondaga Runners arrived from their Sachems in 6 days
to acquaint Sir William that that Nation with the Chenussios &ca
would set off within two days after the Messengers, they likewise
brought a Letter from Printup the Interpreter then at the German
Flatts to acquaint Sir William that the Number of Indians on
their way down, were very considerable. Sir Wm. recd. a Letter
from the General to inform him of War having been declared
against Spain3 —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Martinique, which capitulated to British forces under General Monck-
ton on Feb. 1 6, 1 762 ; see Banyar to Johnson, March 29, 1 762,
Johnson Papers, 3:658.
3 Amherst to Johnson, Bradstreet, et al., April 3, 1 762, ante p. 420.
Seven Years War 429
REMONSTRANCE OF THE WESTENHOOK INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Stockbridge April 10lh. 1762
Father
Your Children in these parts are like to suffer greatly if you don't
prevent it by your interposition, the time was, when the English
allowed the Indians of the Mohekunnuck, or River Indian Tribe to
own the Lands on Westenhook, or Housatonnock River, and
allways till about twenty years past when the Court granted a
Township, the Court ordered the Land to be purchased of the
Indians. But your Children have lately been treated in a different
manner, several Townships have been granted to the English, and
no pretence of satisfying the Indians for their Claims — and now
Father, we are fully informed that the Court at Boston have
ordered all our Lands to be sold at a Vendue to the highest
bidder, and the money which the Lands fetch are to be put into
their publick Treasury, and your Children are to be deprived of
all their interests, not because they pretend to have purchased of
us, but now say we never had right to those Lands —
Father,
we think it hard to be so treated when we have helped to subdue
the French, and their Indians, now the English think they shall
need us no more they are not willing to do us Justice. We have
often remonstrated to the Court against such proceedings, offered
them our Lands for pay, but they would not hear us, but put us
off from time to time, and now design to take our Lands from us for
nothing — If the Court at Boston are determined to use us in
this manner, we are determined to carry our complaints to the
King, not doubting but he will do us Justice — we pray you
Father to help us, and write to the Govr. of Boston that we may
have justice done us, and that our Lands may not be forced from
us, we, your Children look to you, our Father for help — I write
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
430 Sir William Johnson Papers
this by the desire of my people, pray you wod. not be silent but
help us, and send us a Letter what we must do, and what you will
We are your obedient Children
Benjamin Kokhkewenaunant
Chief Sachem, in the name & by
desire of the Indians at
Stockbridge
FROM JOSIAH HARDY
A. L. S.1
Perthamboy 10th. Apl. 1762.
Sir
The Bearer John Lenox having met with misfortunes, has
apply'd to me for a letter of recommendation to you to obtain
Your leave to trade to Detroit, or any other part of Canada
adjacent, if his request is not improper. I shall be obliged to
you if you will be Kind enough to grant it. I am with great regard
Sir Your most Obed1
Humble Servant,
Josiah Hardy2
Honble Sir Wm Johnson
INDORSED:
Perth Amboy 10* Ap' 1762.
Letter from Josiah Hardy
Esqr. Governor of the Jersies
recommending John Lenox to trade
at D'etroit, or Elsewhere
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Josiah Hardy, governor of New Jersey, 1761-63.
Seven Years War 431
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[April 14-17, 1762]
14*
In Consequence of the foregoing Letter2 Sir William Johnson
wrote to Mr. Croghan3 to acquaint him with the Intelligence
therein Contained, that he might enquire into the same, and put
a stop to the like for the future —
15*
Two Sachems of the Westenhook Tribe of Indians arrived
and delivered Sir William the following Remonstrance, from their
people concerning their Lands —
to which remonstrance Sir William answered them "that he
would require a more particular account, or state of the Affair,
before he could give an opinion therein, in the mean time recom-
mended it to them, to send two or three of their most Intelligent
Men to treat with the Governor of Boston thereon, and that on
their representing their Case properly he did not doubt but the
Governor would do them Justice" — He then Explained to them
his present Majestys Instructions to his Governor of New York
relative to Indian Lands, and told them, that they, or any Indians
who were really injured, or fraudulently deprived of their Lands,
might depend on his Majestys ordering Justice to be done them
be it in whatsoever Government, and after letting them know
what the Abenaquis had said and Transacted when lately at
Fort Johnson, He delivered them the Two Belts, and Strings
of Wampum spoke with by the Abenaquis on that occasion,
together with the Panis Indian, a prisoner delivered in the room
of the Indian whom the Abenaquis had killed two years ago —
After which one of the Sachems returned Sir William many
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Amherst to Johnson, April 4, 1762, Johnson Papers, 3:670.
3 Johnson to Croghan, April 1 7, 1 762, post p. 432.
4 Remonstrance of April 10, 1 762, ante p. 429.
432 Sir William Johnson Papers
thanks for the care and trouble he had taken in getting the affair
so happily accomodated, which otherwise would have been pro-
ductive of a Quarrell between their Indians, and the Abenaquis
that they were now thoroughly satisfied, & would return home
with pleasure. Lastly, the Sachems earnestly entreated Sir Wil-
liam to take their unhappy Situation into Consideration, and see
Justice done them, otherwise, they would be obliged to go to
their Father the King, to obtain redress —
Three Cayugas arrived as Messengers from the Six Nations
then at Ganughsaragey on their way to the Meeting, and begged
that the Council fire might be kept burning till their arrival, they
returned Sir William the String which he had sent to hasten
them, and likewise the belt which he had sent to know whether
the Senecas would come or not, which belt they met at Onondaga
— The six Nations begged by the Messengers that Sir William
would provide more provisions, as great numbers of them were
on their way —
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
Df.1
Fort Johnson 17 th Apr1. 1762
Sir
I have received a Letter from Sir Jeff Amherst dated the 4th.
inst to acquaint me that [tp a Letter he received from]2 Coll1.
Bouquet had acquainted him by Letter that he had been informed
by an Indian that a party of Shawanese had lately taken 4 Scalps,
on the Frontiers of Virginia, or North Carolina ; which had been
confirmed by three Traders, coming from the Lower Shawanese
Town, who said, that the rest of that Nation are very peaceable,
and have expressed great discontent and uneasyness at those
scalps.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9, No. 92, in Guy
Johnson's hand.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Seven Years' War 433
I desire you will therefore imediately enquire into the particulars
thereof, & the motive of the Indians for so doing, which you will
transmit me by the first opportunity, as also that you will take
the most effectual Measures for putting an [effectual]2 entire
stop to such behaviour for the future —
I should be glad you will likewise inform me whatever you
may have heard concerning Blue Cheeks, the Seneca, & his
party, & that unless his behavior may intitle him to better usage,
you will treat him but Coolly whenever you may meet with him
I am Sir &c —
MR. Croghan
INDORSED :
Fort Johnson Ap1. 1 7th. 1 762.
Letter to Mr. Croghan
concerning 4 Scalps, taken
by the Shawanese —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fori Johnson April 17th. 1762
Sir
After the Reduction of Montreal,2 I represented to Your Ex-
cellency, that in case I continued in my employm1. there was a
necessity for my haveing some more Persons to assist me, for the
more effectual discharge thereof, which You were then pleased
to tell me I should not want, and which I have likewise mentioned
in a letter sometime ago. I must now therefore beg leave to re-
mind Your Excellency that the extensiveness of our Indian Alli-
ance, together with the fluctuateing disposition of some Nations,
renders it indispensably necessarry for me to have the Assistance
of a Secretary constantly, as it will be impossible for me with
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Montreal formally capitulated to Amherst on Sept. 8, 1 760.
434 Sir William Johnson Papers
all the Assiduity I can use to carry on this branch of his Majestys
Service as it should be, or I could wish, and as I flatter myselt
Your Excellency is sensible that I would not desire any assistance
that was not absolutely requisite, I doubt not (from such con-
siderations) You will Judge it proper that I have the constant
attendance of a Secretary at least till all Matters become entirely
settled throughout the Country, in which case I should be ex-
tremely glad if your Excellency would please to allow Lieu1.
Guy Johnson to act as such, He being (from the many oper-
tunitys he has had for some Years of an acquaintance with the
Indians and their manners, as well as their language & Politicks)
the best qualified for such an office (without partiality) of any
one I am acquainted with, and that alone I assure Your Excel-
lency is my only motive of recommending him. —
Mr. Marsh1 being constantly indisposed from the Gout &ca.
ever since his appointment, hath transacted no manner of business
for me, neither (could his State of health admit of it) will his
attendance alone be Sufficient for the discharge of that, and
severall other necessary dutys, as I have formerly observed, par-
ticularly as Mr. Marsh is yet entirely unacquainted with trans-
actions of that nature, and many others in which A Secretary
must occasionally be employed. — as I understand your Orders
are gone to the Posts for the removal of the Independent Com-
panys from these parts, I therefore could not avoid applying to
your Excellency, that some measures may be taken to prevent
me being deprived of Lieu*. Johnsons assistance, which, I shall
be greatly distressed without, at a time when it is so much
required. —
I am to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellencys favours
of the 3d.2 & 4th.3 Ins1, in the former of which you are pleased
to acquaint me with the Declaration of War against Spain, which
I hope may be attended with all desired Success. —
I have heard nothing from the Indians concerning the 4 Scalps
1 Witham Marsh, then Secretary of Indian Affairs.
2 Ante p. 420.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:670.
Seven Years' War 435
lately taken by the Shawanese, but on the 6 Nations arrival I
shall endeavour to learn their Motive for such behaviour, as well
as prevent its being continued to the utmost of my power. I wish
there may not have been some cause given them for such a rash
Step, and I fear some of our People from an invincible prejudice
against the Indians, are often too ready to use them 111, which
induces them to commit acts of Violence, otherwise they woud
hardly have taken any Step against the inclination of the rest,
who I look upon at present to be well disposed, but it is my opinion
that whilst the Enemy remain possessed of the Mississipi, they
will always be enabled, and Study to Stirr up all Nations of
Indians they possibly can against our Frontier Settlements, and
escorts, which they will be the better enabled to do by the assist-
ance of the Spaniards, whom the Indians have for some time
heard intended a Rupture with us, which will the readier incite
and embolden many of the distant Nations in particular to commit
Acts of Hostility; I have wrote Mr. Croghan to make enquiry
into the late behaviour of the late Shawanese,1 and to use all his
endeavours to put a Stop to farther barbarities. —
Severall of the Six Nations are already arrived and a con-
siderable Number more than I desired on their way, and may
be daily expected, I hope to make the intended Meeting turn
out to the publick advantage, as well as to put all Idle Notions
out of their Heads, of the powerfull diversion, they are told the
Spaniards may make in favour of France. — which has been
industriously propagated among them by Some of our Enemies. —
I shall conclude with assureing Your Excellency that in order
to answer the Ends of my employment, I should rather pay a
Sallary out of my own income to the Officer which I have re-
quired, than want such assistance at this Juncture, and I hope
Your Excellency will impute my prolixity on that Head to abso-
lute necessity, and the earnest desire which I have always had to
1 Johnson to Croghan, Apr. 1 7, 1 762, ante p. 432.
436 Sir William Johnson Papers
promote his Majestys Interest in this Country, & discharge the
duty of my office agreable to your Excellencys expectations.
I have the honour to be with
the greatest esteem
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient,
and most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath
INDORSED :
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
Fort Johnson 1 7th. April 1 762.
Recd: & Ansd: 25th. Ditto. —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
April 20* 1762
20*.
P.M. The Onondagas to the number of 47, and the Senecas to
the amount of 33 arrived and encamped — In the Evening the
Sachems came to Sir Williams House when the Speaker of the
Onondagas addressed him —
Brother Warraghiyagey
When some of our Nations were last at your House, you sent
by them a belt of invitation to us to come down to a Meeting
withn. 30 Days — on receipt of which belt we imediately pre-
pared to obey your Summons and sent our Young Men who
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 437
are quite worn out in journeys to the Cayugas and Senecas to
invite them down, but the Roads being very deep and bad we
have been greatly delayed thereby —
Returned Sir William's belt of Invitation
After which the Seneca Speaker addressed him
Brother
We lost no time after receiving your invitation to the Confer-
ence, but, as we were preparing to set out, we received a Mes-
sage from the Governor of Pensilvania, desiring us to send him
all his people who yet remained prisoners amongst us, agreable
to which, we imediately set about collecting them; but, as we
live so scattered it could not be done in time, and therefore it
was agreed that our Sachems should remain at home to collect
them, and our Warriors should come down to attend you —
Gave a String
Sir William then told them that he was glad to see them, as
they had been long expected, he now therefore wellcomed them,
and told them that when those Nations who were yet behind,
Should arrive tomorrow, he would Meet and speak to them
Then gave them pipes, Tobacco &ca —
At Night, the Cayugas to the amount of 1 09, Tuscaroras 3 1
and Tederighronos 26,1 arrived and waited on Sir William and
told him they were sorry his Neck was obliged to be stretched
out so long waiting for them, but that 'twas not thro' their neglect,
they being in the same situation, waiting for the Upper Nations —
Sir William answered them that he was glad to see they were
at length arrived, and should speak to them next Day2 —
1 The Tederighronos: Catawba or "Christanna" Indians of Virginia,
with whom the Five Nations made a general peace in 1 722, and who
joined the Cayuga Nation, and were made a part of the Six Nations,
in 1753.
2 The report of the conference which took place from April 2 1 to
28 inclusive is given in Johnson Papers, 3:690-717, and is therefore
omitted here.
438 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDENTURE
In the New York Public Library, under date of April 20, 1 762, is an
indenture of Grace Cosby, widow of William Cosby, deceased, selling,
to Oliver de Lancey, two thousand acres of land in Albany County granted
to William Cosby by George II of England, and situated on the South side
of the Mohawk River. Sir William Johnson acted in this matter as attorney
for Grace Cosby, and in all probability arranged the sale. Because of the
document's excessive bulk, and because of the repetitive nature of the
information contained therein, it is not printed here.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary) Copy1
New York, 25*. April 1762 —
Sir,
I Have this morning the favor of Your Letter of the 1 7th.2
Instant, wherein You point out the necessity of Your having the
Assistance of a Secretary constantly to Attend You, and par-
ticularly Requesting to have Ll. Guy Johnson appointed to that
Office Since Mr. Marsh, from his Indisposition, and other Reasons
Urged in Your Letter, is rendered Incapable of Discharging
that Duty. —
I Have already told You, that as Mr. Marsh was appointed
at home, I could not think of Superceding him ; but that I thought
he Should either Attend, or get a Deputy to Officiate for him.
However if he is not fit for the Employment, or does not find a
Deputy to Your approbation, it is but reasonable You Should
have a proper Person for that Duty; and as Doctor Shuckburgh
has been disappointed of Repurchasing the Surgeoncy in the
Independents, by Mr. Peter's Chusing to Continue, I Imagine he
will be very glad to Attend You, And I am persuaded he will be
agreable to You, from What You have formerly mentioned to
me concerning him. Altho' I Shall always be glad to grant You
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 433.
Seven Years' War 439
any Request I can Consistent with the Service, Yet I can, by
no means agree to L'. Johnson's being absent any longer from his
Company, Which You will have Seen by mine of the 1 1 ,h. Instant,
was Ordered on Immediate Service, and that I Desired he Might
Joyn it. As those Companies are going on a Service of the utmost
Importance, I have Judged it highly necessary that None of the
Officers Should be Absent ; & have accordingly ordered Captain
Coventry from Albany, & Lieut Rose from Tienderoga, Who
are both much wanted in their respective Departments; and I
Should certainly have left them, as I should willingly do Ll. John-
son, did I not think their presence with their Companies absolutely
requisite. —
I Have no Doubt but at the Intended Meeting, You will Use
Your utmost Endeavors to put the Indians in a right way of
thinking, & Shew them the absurdity of Listening to any idle
Reports of the French being able, from any Assistance they can
receive from the Spaniards, to Molest, or Disturb the Tranquility
of the English. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm Johnson, Bar1.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
April 28-29, 1762
[28"-]
This day and the following the Indians spent in Decamping and
returned home (except some who had Skins to dispose of and who
kept in the Neighbourhood 3 or 4 Days for that purpose [ ) ] —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6; follows after
Indian Conference reported in Johnson Papers, 3:690-717, as taking
place April 21-28, inclusive.
440 Sir William Johnson Papers
29* i
Sir Wm. acqtA Gen1. Amherst by letter that he believed he
cod. send some parties to the Southward agf. the Spaniards & their
Indians if he approved thereof & encouraged it, also acqtA him
with Teedyuscungs Letter
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.1
Lebanon 30ih. April 1762.
Much Hond Sir
I wrote Your Honr. Last Fall by Mr. Thomas Forscey of
Albany,2 an accof. of the Act of the general Assembly at Boston,
by Which they had disposed of the Intres1 [of the Legacy]* of
Sir Peter Warren's Legacy for one Year for the Support of
Six [£?oi;s] Children of the Six Nations at this School that is,
£ 12. lawful Money for each, and I also desired Your Honour
to be instrumental to their coming with Negyes if it Might be.
but have heard nothing of the Affair Since. I should now Sir, be
glad if their coming Might be hastned [as possible as ma\> be].
and that the [public!?] Design might have the Benefit of Your
Honours Prudence in chusing the Children [/ Suppose] if [the
Design] the affair Should be seasonably entered upon & prudently
expedited I suppose there is no doubt, but that Assembly will
continue the Grant 'till a better door be opened for the improve-
ment of it. Joseph Moses & Johannes are all well and have
behaved considerably well, and seem well contented. I inclose
a Specimen of their writing. & yr Progress in reads is I think
fully equal to yr writs, but I find great want of an Interpr. to
make ym understand any thing more yn. ye. most common matters.
[// is now pe. Most Distress?. Time on Acco1. of the scersity
of Bred Corn that ever I (nen> in this Government.]
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 Wheelock to Johnson, Dec. 11, 1761, ante p. 344.
3 Material italicized and in brackets crossed out in original.
Seven Years War 441
Could not your Honr. make Way for the Setting up [of] this
School, & the Settlement of three or four Towns of the better
Sort of our people round about it, Somewhere near Sesquahanna
River or in some other Place more convenient for it? If Such
a Door Was opened With a Prospect of extensive Usefulness of
it Among the Indians I would Gladly remove with it. And I
know of Several other Ministers [who are] of the Best Character
that Would gladly [remove and Settle in Your Country With
such a Prospect of Usefulness to the Pagans.] Accompany me
and endeavour to take none with us but [partners] men of known
honesty and integrity and such as Love Indians, our People,
Your Honr. knows, are freeholders in this Government, And
have a Prejudice against being Within Mr Penn's Claim, nor
would they be forward to remove to settle any w[here] [unless
ya could be vested] Without the Fee of their Possessions
Your Hon". Candour Will readily pardon my Freedom and
all Mistakes, and accept Most Sincere Regard, from,
Your Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
0 ,v, T t-> , Eleazar Wheelock
Sir William Johnson Baron1.
INDORSED
Lett1" to Sir Wm. Johnson to send
ye Chn. to prtake of Sir Peter
Warrens Legacy. Apr. 30. 1 762
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Fort George May 3d 1762.
Dear Sir
When I tell you that my Daughter Willett & my Daughter
Caty have been dangerously ill ever since the Death of my
1 Printed in Collections of Nell) York Historical Society, 1876,
Colden Papers, p. 198.
442 Sir William Johnson Papers
Wife, that I have lately lost my Daughter Willett, & Caty
continues dangerously ill of a Hectic, I hope you will excuse
my not answering yours of the 1 7lhl of last month sooner & in
the manner I would take pleasure to do.
I directed Mr. Banyar to inform you of what is done in Council
in respect to Clock which is all in our power to do & I hope it
will give satisfaction to the Indians. I believe he is now humbled
so far as not to take upon him to brag.
The Gentlemen of the Council who act as Justices of the
Peace take the oath of a justice of Peace for the Province as
well as that of Councillor.
I have the Misfortune likewise at this time to have an unusual
load of public business all which I hope will excuse my referring
you to Mr Banyar for farther particulars. I am with great
esteem & regard, Sir.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS2
[May 3-6 , / 762]
Forty four Indians from the Susquehanna, & Otsiningo, who
had set out in order to attend the General Meeting of the six
Nations, arrived at Sr. Wm. Johnson's.
Map 3d.
The Oghquago's Waited on Sir William when Adam Chief
Sachem of Oghquago made the following speech
Brother Gorah Warraghiyagey
On our receiving notice from the Six Nations of your calling
them to a General Meeting to be held at your House, We, the
Representatives now present of the different Nations living along
the Susquehanna River, and its branches, set off in order to hear
what you had to say but we are sorry to find we came too late —
Then performed the Ceremony of Condolance usual on such
1 Johnson Papers, 3:684.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 443
occasions after which Thomas King stood up, & spoke to Sir
Wm. as follows
Brother
As we came too late to be present ourselves, we beg you will
acquaint us with what passed at the Meeting, and with your
intentions —
After this, Adam, stood up with a long String of Wampum
in his hand, and after acquainting Sir William of the death of
one of the Sachems, whom he had formerly made, presented
another Indian named Torvanutta als. William of the Tuscaroras,
saying, their Nation had a great opinion of his Abilities, and
would be glad, Sir William would create him a Sachem —
Gave a long String
Thomas King them produced a Speech of Governor Bernards
of Boston in Writing with his Seal at Arms affixed thereto, also,
one white belt, and two Strings Given by him at the same time
to be delivered with his Speech, (by Thomas King, who came
lately from Boston) to the Six Nations, which they desired Sir
William to read, and Explain to them, that done, Thomas told
Sir Willm. that he would go and deliver said Speech and Wam-
pum at Onondaga, and leave it to the six Nations to return an
Answer thereto —
Sir William bade them wellcome, and performed the ceremony
of Condolance in return, after which he told them, that he would
have been glad to have had them present at the Meeting, that
they might have heard what had passed thereat, which he was
certain (from the knowledge he had of them and their good
disposition) would have given them great satisfaction, & that
notwithstanding the whole thereof was somewhat tedious, he would
for their information repeat all that was material —
Then repeated to them the Transactions at the Meeting —
with the Cause thereof — They expressed the greatest Satisfac-
tion on finding that the Senecas had explained themselves so well
444 Sir William Johnson Papers
concerning their late behavior, and had made so many promises
of behaving better for the future. Then assured Sir William
that the late conduct of that Nation had given them so much
Uneasiness for some time past that their minds could not be at
rest, being so sensible of the ill consequences which must attend
a Breach with their Brethren, they had sent several belts of
Wampum advising and conjuring them to desert from so unatural
and rash an attempt, as well as to deliver up all the prisoners
amongst them, and live in friendship with the English —
Then Adam of Oghquago spoke to Sir Wm.as follows
Brother
We beg to recommend to your consideration the unlawfull
Claims of the Connecticut People to a large tract of our best Land
along the Susquehanna River, known by the Name of Sfyahan-
doane, concerning which the Six Nations have spoke to you, it
behoves us to look into the same, and prevent the English from
Settling thereon which must prove our Ruin, having no more
Such Land, either for planting, or hunting, we therefore entreat
you to look into the affair and not suffer us to be dispossessed of
our Lands, which might tend to overset the good Work of peace
and Friendship so happily settled at the last Meeting —
Sir William assured the Indians thereupon that he would repre-
sent their Grievance in a proper manner, and use all his Interest
to have Justice done them, or any Indians who were really in-
jured — Then acquainted them with his approbation of Toxoa-
nutta & taking him by the hand told him that he now made him
a Sachem, advised him to behave himself well in that Station, &
to make it his Study to cultivate the Friendship of the English,
& promote the welfare of his people
Then gave them some powder, & shot &ca with some provi-
sions to carry them home, & orders to have their Arms, & working
implements mended & also some Money as private presents to the
Sachems, after which he dismissed them —
Seven Years* War 445
May 6th.
Sir William prepared the following Answer to the Speech
delivered by the Caghnawaga's &ca to Mr. Croghan at Albany
in June 1 761 , which Answer he gave Cap'. Claus to deliver them
at Montreal for Which place he was to proceed within a few
days.
Brethren of Caghnawaga, Ganaghsadaga, & all others our Friends
in Canada
I was last year prevented from Meeting you at Albany, by
reason of my being then preparing to set out for the D'etroit,
but Mr. Croghan who then spoke with you, having transmitted
your Speech to me, I now take the opportunity of Cap1. Claus,
My Deputys return to Canada to Answer the same, having some-
time ago acquainted you with the Good Success of My Negotia-
tions, and the friendly State in which I left the Indians about the
D'etroit last year —
Brethren
As I understand by Capt Claus that you have (since my
leaving Canada) lost a great many of your people by sickness,
for which I am sorry, I now take this opportunity by him of con-
doling your loss, & wiping away the Tears from your Eyes so
that you may look up to the Divine being & crave his blessing,
and a Continuance of health to those who have Survived, as well
as to enable you to look chearfully at your Brethren, the English,
and observe what they have done and still continue to do for you
3 Very long Strings
Brethren
At the Meeting which I held with you in Canada after the
reduction of that Country to his Britannick Majestys Arms, I
spoke to you with Sincerity, and meant what I said, and you
may rest assured that Whatever promises the English make, or
engagements they enter into with you, or any other Nation they
will punctually observe, as long as you continue to behave well
446 Sir William Johnson Papers
and friendly towards them and this I recommend to you to do,
as the most certain means of making you an happy people —
B.i_ A belt of 9 Rows, & 4 Ovals thereon
rethren
I thank you for your gathering together and burying the bones
of such of our people, as we have lost during the War, and as
you have been imprudently led to act as an unnatural part against
the English by the instigation of the French, whereby you have
also lost several of your people, I now gather up all their bones,
bury them, and level the graves wherein they are deposited, so
as never more to be seen —
A belt of 1 0 Rows
Brethren
As you are now become one people with us, I chearfully Join
in Strengthening and brightening the Covenant Chain of Peace
and friendship, and you may depend upon it that no thing on
Earth can break it, so long as you all strictly abide thereby, and
as you have not the advantage of Records like us, I recommend
it to you, often to repeat the purport thereof & of all our mutual
Engagements, to your young people so as they may never be
forg°tten A Cov*. Chain belt of 8 Rows
Brethren
I am Glad to find your Warriors are so sensible of their own,
and the Interest of your people, that they joyn you in Strengthen-
ing and maintaining the peace and friendship lately settled between
us, and be assured our Warriors are equally well inclined to do
the same —
A Belt of 7 Rows
Brethren
It is also very agreable to me to hear that your warriors are
determined to behave in such a manner as to leave no room for
any doubt of the sincerity of their professions, I recommend it
to you and them to persevere in these good resolutions which
cannot fail of rendering the present peace lasting —
A belt 9 Rows —
Seven Years' War 447
Brethren
The General was so sensible of the bad effects of spirituous
liquors being brought to sell amongst the Indian Nations, that
(in order to put a stop to its pernicious consequences) he has
entirely prohibited any from being sent, or brought amongst you,
and I am hopefull that by this means, there will be no further
disputes, or Quarrells between you, and any of his Majestys
subjects —
A belt of 8 Rows
Brethren
From what the Warriors said in your speech, I cannot in the
least imagine that any thing evil can remain in their hearts which
requires purging, if there should, I am at a loss to understand
what was meant by the friendly declarations they made. By this
belt of Wampum cleanse and purge your bodys and theirs of all
ill humours which might have been lodged there, and wash you
with that pure Water which your Ancestors made use of on all
such occasions —
A belt of 8 Rows
Brethren
It is certain you have been in darkness for some time, of which
I am glad you are now become sensible, and with this belt I
dispel that dark Cloud which hung over you, that you, and yours
may enjoy the pleasant and enlivening sunshine —
A belt of 1 0 Rows
Brethren
I am sorry to hear of your meeting with so many stumps in the
Road hither; you must consider it is newly repaired, & cannot
be so smooth, and even as when a little more used, I will assist
you in making it level, smooth, & wide, so that you, and we may
travel it with safety, and pleasure by night or day to all, or any
of our Towns —
A belt of 9 Rows with a black
Road thro' the Middle —
448 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren
Agreable to my desire some time ago I find you have admon-
ished your Cousins the Abenaquis to act a proper part, for which
I thank you, and now tell you that they have settled that unhappy
affair with the Stockbridge Indians to their satisfaction, & have
in every thing else behaved very prudently, with all which I have
acquainted the six Nations, and I hope you will take care to see
that they act up to the promises they have made —
A belt of 7 Rows
Brethren
You have acted well and wisely in delivering up all our
people who were Prisoners amongst you, as you know there could
not be that strict friendship kept up which it is natural for Brothers,
or Friends to bear each other, whilst the people of either side
were detained prisoners, & I shod. be as ready to procure you
any of your flesh & blood if I should hear of them
A belt
Brethren
I am much concerned at your having any cause of Complaint
ag'. Your Brethren who were posted at the Cedars, — I am
certain that no ill treatment would be offered to any of your people
with the approbation of any Officer, and, as you know that Sol-
diers are sometimes inconsiderate, especially when in liquor, &
that your Young Men are so likewise there must be an allowance
made; This I can assure you, that neither the General, nor any
Officer will suffer you to be ill treated, knowingly and unde-
servedly, wherefore you must not look upon it as a thing intended,
or blame a whole Nation for the behavior of a few individuals,
who, if found out would be punished according to their deserts —
A belt
Brethren
I know it has been Customary for the French to give you many
things for the support of your familys, but when you consider
their motives for so doing, and the difference of the French's
Seven Years' War 449
scituation from that of ours, You will certainly think yourselves
no way intitled to any thing from us, as yet, and can only hope
for a friendly behaviour from us. I must therefore recommend
it to you (as I have done to all Nations of Indians) to follow
your hunting, planting and Trade, and not to depend upon
others for what you may want, and can easily procure by your
Industry, as you have now nothing to employ you otherwise —
Brethren
I have lately had a General Meeting of the Six Nations &ca
at my House where every thing relative to peace, friendship,
Trade &ca has been fully settled, and the Senecas whose heads
were last Year somewhat turned as you have doubtless heard,
have now made an honest Confession thereof, and in the presence
of the rest of the Nations promised never to be guilty of the like
again, of all which together with many other Transactions at
the Meeting I have directed Capt Claus to acquaint you, and I
expect to hear from you the result of the Cadaraghqui Meeting,
& by whom it was called, as such Meetings without my knowledge
don't carry a good appearance, And I expect that you, who are
a sensible people who live regularly, and are instructed in, and
profess the Christian Religion will not foolishly fall into, or suffer
yourselves to be led away with any wild, or destructive schemes;
Should any such be proposed to you, stop your Ears against
them, & pay them no regard, but follow your Hunting, Planting,
and Trade, which will be much more Essential to your happiness
and true Interest than the Embracing of such measures, as must
draw upon you, our wrath & your inevitable Ruin —
A belt
Sir William received a Letter from Mr. Peters acquainted
him that he had forwarded his Letter to Teedyuscung, & should
himself attend at Easton.
Also a Letter from Govr. Hamilton of the 1 2th. May approv-
ing of Sir Williams intentions to meet the Indians at Easton, &
acquainting him that he had appointed Commissioners on behalf
of the Proprietors to be present at the Meeting —
450 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JAMES GORRELL
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from James Gorrell Ensign 1 B.R.A.
Reg1, dated Fort Edward Augustus 7th. May, 1762.
Sir
The Trouble I have had is inexpressible, as you are not ac-
quainted in what Situation I left Detroit, without any one thing
to Give the Indians, this being the most Remote Fort, and Situ-
ated near the Six Nations, which are very Numerous, I will take
the Liberty to Specify them in the Names given them by the
French, viz*. —
The Follouanis 18 Leags. Dis*. from this Fort, 100 fighting
Men.
The Pevents 12 Leg5, distant 160 Men —
The Assois 12 Leg8, distant 60 Men
J The Sacks 60 Leg*. dis». 300 Men
The Renards 72 Ls. distant 300 Men —
The Scious seldom rest in one Place ; they are very numerous,
in the nearest Town there are upwards of 2000 Men. — This
is the best Account I have been able to Collect as yet: I shall
make it my utmost Study to get what Information I can. —
I am &c —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York 9th. May 1762
Sir
I am to own the favor of your letter of ye 29th of April,3 & Am
very Sorry to hear of Your indisposition.
There was nothing Secret in the Orders I received from home,
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 In Johnson Papers, 3:723-25.
\/
Seven Years' War 451
relative to the Indians. As they principally concerned the Gov-
ernments in Canada, I transmitted copies thereof to the Several
Governors there; and I now Enclose you an Extract of what
Relates to the Indians in general, that You may make Such use
of it as You Judge best for the Service.
I am glad to find the Indians, At the late Meeting Seem'd
desirous of cultivating the Peace Established between the English
And them, And I hope when You Meet at Chenussio, you will
be able to Convince them of the folly of hearkening to Idle
Stories, or of pretending to Revenge Injuries received from the
white People, As on complaints made they may depend on having
Justice done them, if you think there is any thing matterial that
passed at Your late Meeting which I Should be Acquainted
with, I Should be glad to have a Copy of the proceedings, but
this I leave Intirely to Your Self.
I cannot but approve of your Meeting Teedyuscung, Agreable
to his late Majesty's Orders.
Your proposal of Sending Some parties of Indians to the
Southward, against the Spanish back Settlements appears to me
of the Utmost Consequence, And if properly conducted, might
Answer many good purposes; but I Should be glad to know
what Number You think you could depend on; And the places
you Imagine they would chuse to go Against.
I am, with great Regard —
Sir
&c.
Sir Willm: Johnson, Bar1,
fort Johnson
452 Sir William Johnson Papers
GEORGE CROGHAN TO JEFFERY AMHERST
For/ Pitt May 10th. 1762
May Itt Plase Your Excelancy
Inclosd. I Send you My Acount & Vouchers from Nobr. to
the 1st. of May which I hope will Meet yr. Excelancys aproba-
tion, as the Greatest Cair has been Taken to Lessen ye. Indian
Expences, all the Acounts is signd. by Co11. Boquet Except two
wh. was Acrud. before he Received yr. orders, Mr. Hutchins an
Asistant of Mine Sett of ye 3d. of April to Visett the Indians
Liveing a bout or Near yr. Several posts over ye. Lacks Agreeable
to My Instructions from Sir William Johnson, by him I Sent ye.
Money to pay ye. Interpreters Docter & Smiths att Detroit and on
his Return I will Send yr. Excelancy thire Vouchers all ye. Rest
I Send with My Acount & hopes yr. Excelancy will Send Me
a bill on Mr. Nelson in Philk for ye. Amount
A bout ye. 7th Aprel there was two Verginians kilR by ye.
Indians about 12 Miles Above ye. post att Lead Stone butt I
Dont think itt was a National thing Butt Rather a Kind of
Robery Commited by Some Strageling Indians as boath the
Men had fine Rifels I have Taken Every Step in My power to
find out who ye. Murders ware and of what Nation butt has Nott
as yett been able to find them out tho I flater My Self I Shall
Soon hear who they ware as all ye. Indians this way att present
behave quietly & Sivil to ye. Treaders who go Amoungst them
there is Greatt Numbers of ye. Six Nations passing this way
to & from Warr against ye. Suthren Indians a party of 80 past
Heer a few Days Ago with two Cherrokes prisners and Eight
Sculps
the Indian Nation that Live between this post and the Lackes
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; printed here because
of its relationship to Croghan to Johnson, May 10, 1 762, Johnson Papers,
3:732; and to Hutchins' journal and report enclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, November 12, 1762, post p. 567.
Seven Years* War 453
have Sent Me Werd that they are going to Philk in June to
have a Conferance with ye. Governer there & att that time they
propose to bring what prisners yett Remain Amungst them &
Deliver them hear
As Soon as Mr. Hutchins Returns I will Send yr. Excelancy his
Journals1 I am with greatt Esteem and Regard Your Excelancys
Most Obedient
And Humble
Servant
Geo : Croghan
PS : As I find it very Dificult to gett
Money hear to Answer ye. Service I am
oblidgd. to Send those Acounts by an
Express att My own Expence
TO THOMAS GAGE
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Johnson May IIth. 1762.
Sir
Capt. Clause will have the honor of delivering you this, whom
I retained here until the meeting which I lately had with the 6
Nations was over, that he might be acquainted with the trans-
actions thereat, and thereby enabled to inform the Indians in
Canada of such parts thereof as were necessary.
At this Meeting were present [near] above 400 Indians, who
have behaved themselves very well, the Senecas clearing up, and
giving a very circumstantial detail of the affair which gave rise
to their being accused of a plot against the English, and after
Strengthening and renewing their former alliance, made many
protestations of friendship, and of preserving a good behavior
1 Enclosed in Croghan to Amherst, Oct. 5, 1 762, post p. 543, and
in Johnson to Amherst, Nov. 12, 1762, post p. 567.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
454 Sir William Johnson Papers
towards the the English. Delivered up two prisoners, and prom-
ised to send down [nine] ten others, as speedily as possible —
upon the whole I believe they are in general well disposed, and
will continue so notwithstanding the Machinations of some secret
Enemys, who I am informed are using all their interest and in-
fluence to set them up against [you] us, but I am hopeful 'twill
be without Effect so long as they meet with good treatment from
us, and find that we don't encroach on their Lands or property,
in which case they would be apt to suspect us of some bad design
against them which [but] His Majesty's late instructions to the
Gov1, of this Province concerning lands claimed by the Indians
must Effectually prevent —
I hope all the Inds. in your Government1 are in a State of
Tranquility, and heartily wish [that] you find everything else
agreable to you within the same and that [as I beg] you will
believe me to be,
Dr Sir &ca
INDORSED :
Fort Johnson May 1 1 1 762
Letter to General Gage,
Governor of Montreal.
FROM TEEDYUSCUNG
Contemporary Copy2
Wioming, May 14lh, 1762
Teedyuskungs Answer to Sir William Johnson's Letter of the
21st April, taken down by David Zisberger at Wioming —
1 On July 11, 1 760, Brigadier Thomas Gage had departed from
Oswego with the army to Montreal, of which city he was appointed
governor after its capitulation on Sept. 8, 1 760.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. Also printed in
Pennsylvania Archives, First series, 4:78.
Seven Years War 455
Brother Sir William Johnson
I received your Letter1 yesterday & am very glad & well sat-
isfied that you have appointed a place for us to meet at, and I
suppose that the Governor of Philadelphia hath nothing to say
against it, & as we have appointed Easton in former times to be
a place of Council, I and the rest of my people shall be ready to
meet you at Easton the 1 5th. of June, such as are concerned in
the Land Affair and my Kins people. I also expect to meet the
Governour & all the Gentlemen from Philadelphia who are con-
cerned in the affair, I shall bring no other Indians along with me
but such as are necessary to be present because the other Nations
will not be obedient to me but gets drunk, & do a great deal of
Mischief for which I cannot be answerable, but I can answer
for my own people —
A String
TEEDYUSCUNG Chief of the Delawares
at Wyoming
FROM RICHARD PETERS
Copy2
Philadelphia, 20th May, 1762
Sir,
The Messenger did but return this morning from Teedyuscung,
and delivered to me his Answer3 to your last Letter, taken down
in Writing from his own mouth by the Express, & as it is Post
day I have an opportunity of forwarding it to you without loss
of time.
The Governor has appointed Mr. Chew4 and myself to at-
tend the hearing on the part of the Proprietaries, and I hope to
1 Johnson to Teedyuscung, April 21, 1762, Johnson Papers, 3:689.
2 Printed in Pennsylvania Archives, First Series, 4:80.
3 May 14, 1 762. See ante p. 454.
4 Benjamin Chew.
456 Sir William Johnson Papers
have the pleasure of seeing you at Easton on the 15th of the
next month.
I am, Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble Servant,
DIRECTED :
On His Majesties Service
To Sr. William Johnson, Baronet, at Fort Johnson,
New York:
EXTRACT FROM CROGHAN S JOURNAL
Contemporary Copy1
[May 21, 1762]
Extract from Mr. Croghans Journal of Indian Affairs at Fort
Pitt. —
"the 18th. of March I received a letter from one Hugh Craw-
ford a Trader at the lower Shawanese Town, Informing me that
a Party of Shawanese who had been at War against the Cherokees
was returned with 4 white Persons Scalps & Eight horses, that
this party informed the Nation they killed them in mistake in
the Night, that three of the Shawanese was sent out to see if
they could discover any of the Enemy about, and they discovered
the fire where those People was, and on drawing near they saw
two Indians as they thought wh. they shot, but on scalping them,
they found them to be of a half breed, but before they had dis-
covered this, they had killed two White men that were in Bed,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, in Johnson's hand.
Enclosed in Johnson to Amherst, May 21, 1762, the draft of which is
printed in Johnson Papers, 3:742, dated May 19, 1762. The date
of the letter to Amherst as given above is the date of Johnson's extract
of Croghan's Journal. It is given under date of March 1 8, 1 762,
"George Croghan's Journal, 1759-1763," edited by Nicholas B. Wain-
wright, Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, LXXI, no. 4.
(October 1947), pp. 421-22.
Seven Years War 457
this they say was ye. manner in which they killed them. Mr.
Crawford further says that the Indians are prodigious uneasy at
this Accident and declare they will deliver up the Men who
committed the Murder. Mr. Crawford further writes me that ye.
Captn. of this Party has been particularly attached to the Brittish
Interest, and has never been to War against Us. that he is much
troubled for what had happened, tho he was not one of those that
committed the Murder, he has offered himself to be given up
to the English as an attonement for the others Crimes, and to
prevent any differences between their Nation and Us." —
TO JOHN TABOR KEMPE
Johnson Hall May 24th. 1762
Sir
As I am given to Understand that the Affair regarding the
fraudulent, & Villainous proceedings of one George Klock of
Conajohare, concerning the Indians Lands &ca. now remains
with You, & that by an Order of the Lieu*. Governour & Council
You are to proceed agst. Klock thereon, I thought it necessary to
apply to You for your information relative thereto, and whether
ye. Inhabitants on these Lands (who have paid, & still continue
to pay their Rents yearly to the Indians) are to engage themselves
therein, Klock haveing Served two of them with Ejectments
dureing the Winter, if so, what Steps they are to take therein, &
to request that You will engage Yourself on their behalf, & give
me Notice what is necessary to be done in the Affair, that I may
give directions to an Attorney at Albany to furnish You with
everry thing necessarry for that purpose.
I think it my duty as his Majesty s Superintendant & Agent of
Indian Affairs to interest myself in an affair, in which the Indians
have been so apparently injured, contrary to his Majestys Royal
1 In Massachusetts Historical Society.
458 Sir William Johnson Papers
Intentions, and which if not speedily & effectually redressed,
may be attended with bad consequences, and occasion great
trouble in this Country. —
I am with much Esteem
Sir
Your Most Obedient
Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
KEMPE Esqr.
Attx. General —
INDORSED:
May 24* 1 762
Letter from Sir Wm. Johnson
- George Klock
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Nerv York, 30th. May 1762.
Sir/
I am to Own the favor of your Letter of the 21lh. Inst'., En-
closing a copy of your Transactions with the Six Nations at the
late Meeting, &c.2
I have not Yet had time to peruse them, but from the Extract
of Mr. Croghan's Journal, I am glad to See the Shawnese Seem
willing to deliver up the Supposed Murderers, which by all means
ought to be done, that they may be Tried, & if they are as in-
nocent, as they represent, they will of course be Acquitted.
A few days ago I had a Letter3 from Mr. Croghan, of which
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 The draft of the letter is dated May 19, 1 762, and will be found in
Johnson Papers, 3:742; the report of Johnson's transactions with the
Indians will also be found in Johnson Papers, 3:690-71 7.
3 Croghan to Amherst, May 10, 1762, ante p. 452.
Seven Years War 459
I Enclose You a Copy, whereby You will See that he has trans-
mitted me his Accompts; And as they appear to be clear, And
the Greatest part of them Signed by Colonel Bouquet, I Shall
Send him a Warrant for the Amount Agreable to his Desire.
Mr. Croghan Likewise Mentions that The Indian Nations
Between Pittsburg And the Lakes had Sent him word that they
were coming to Philadelphia In June to have a Conference
with the Governor There, and at the Same time, were to deliver
up all the English Prisoners that Still remain'd Amongst them:
if this is their Chief Errand, I very much Approve of it, Altho'
I have no great opinion of their Conferences with the provinces
in General.
I have the pleasure to Acquaint You, that I have Certain
Accounts of the Arrival of Lord Albermarle, with four Regiments
from England, at Martinique And that his Lordship Sailed from
thence on the 6th. Instant, having been Joyned by all the Troops
that went from hence Except Vaughan's Regiment, in lieu of
which His Lordship took Morgans, And As the Troops in gen-
eral were very healthy there is the Greatest reason to Expect
Success from this Armament.
I am with great regard
Sir
&ca.
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
Fort Johnson.
JEFFERY AMHERST TO GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
New York 31* May 1762
Sir
A few days ago I received your Letter of the 10th Ins1, En-
closing Your accompt and Vouchers from the ll. Novemr 1761,
to the R May 1762; and I herewith Enclose You a Warrant
xIn Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
460
Sir William Johnson Papers
for the amount thereof, agreable to Your desire. Mr. Nelson at
Philadelphia will pay the Money, on the Warrant being En-
dorsed by You, and presented to him. and I have only to desire
that you will Transmit to me the Receipts of the Interpreters, &c
At the D'etroit, So Soon as they come to Your Hands, that
they may be Lodged with the rest of the Vouchers.
I Shall be glad to hear that the Indians that are coming to
Philadelphia, are as good as their word, in bringing down all
the English prisoners that remain amongst them: this is the only
advantage I can Expect from their conference with the people
of the province.
I hope You will be able to discover the Indians who Murdered
the Two Virginians; and I would insist on their being delivered
up, in order to be Tryed according to the Laws of the Country.
I am
Sir
&c
GEORGE CROGHAN Esqr. D1?: Agent for the Indian affairs at
fort Pitt.
TO THE EARL OF EGREMONT
Df.1
Fort Johnson [May] 1762-
My Lord,
I do myself the honour to [enclose]2 transmit your Lordship
my transactions with the Indians on my way to, and at the Detroit
last Summer whither I was sent by Sir Jeff[er]y Amherst [in
order to] that I might settle all matters, and Enter into a Treaty
of Alliance with the Western and Northern Indians, and as at
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9, in Guy Johnson's
hand.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Seven Years War 461
that time, [then] a report had been spread of the disaffection,
of the Senecas, and of their designs to excite the Western Indians
to a revolt, I therefore delayed transmitting to your Lordship
the before mentioned transaction until I should be enabled to
hold a Meeting with the 6 Nations on my return home to enquire
into the cause of such reports as well as the motives which induced
them to such a proceeding with their then present resolutions
thereon, which meeting having been lately held at this place, I
herewith Enclose a Copy thereof to which I beg leave to referr
your Lordship1 —
On inspecting my Transactions of last Year, & the late Meet-
ing your Lordship will observe that the Indians are not only very
uneasy, but Jealous of our growing power, which the Enemy (to
engage them firmly in their interest) had always told them would
prove their ruin, as we shod [at last] by degrees Surround them
on every side, & at length Extirpate them, this they are the readier
induced to believe from the many posts we have taken, and
Erected in their country, for [great part] many of which, accords
to their ideas of such matters, they think we can at present have
no manner of use, except to hem them in, and serve as so many
checks upon them, as also from [ different] treatment they receive
from us, different from what they have been accustomed to by
the French, who spared no labor, or Expence to gain their friend-
ship and Esteem, which alone enabled them to support the War
in these parts so long whilst we, as either not thinking of them of
sufficient Consequence, or that we had not so much occasion for
their assistance not only fell infinitely short of the Enemy in our
presents &ca to the Indians, but have of late I am apprehensive
been rather premature in our sudden retrenchment of some neces-
sary Expences, [/rorn] to which they have been always accus-
tomed, & [/rorn] which on due consideration I flatter myself your
Lordship will be of opinion they should be gradually weaned
from, rather than be totally deprived of, [which] as that cannot
1 On the margin of the draft is written: "To mention the No. of
Prisoners delivered up to Mr. Croghan &c in consequence of Sr. W"".
requisition."
462 Sir William Johnson Papers
fail [of] encreasing their Jealousy, and adding fuel to their dis-
content. The great Abuses committed in trade with the Inds.
of wch they had made frequent Complaints, occasioned my mak-
ing regulations therein, which I left at all the Principal posts, as
mentd. in my Transactions of that Year, and I am hopefull It may
be in some measure conducive to make the Inds. easy on a head
which they look upon of the utmost importance at-
tended to by |
I have likewise made the best use which I could of His
Majesty's late Instructions to his Governor of this Province, con-
cerning the Indians Lands, to convince them of his Royal intentions
to use them well & do them all justice, which hath greatly pleased
them, and I take very much occasion from time to time of ap-
peasing their Clamours, & satisfying them with regard to their
distrust, and notwithstanding I am satisfied of his Majesty's
friendly disposition, & of the Experience & knowledge the present
Ministry have of the importance of keeping on good terms with
them, and of the sense which they have of this illtreatment, &
frauds often used towards them, I am induced to make a few
[observations] remarks on that head, which have come within
my observation, as his Majesty's Agent in this Country from no
other motive than a desire to preserve the peace & promote the
prosperity thereof, for which trespass on your time, I beg your
Lordship's favourable Indulgence.
When we consider the defenseless State of the back parts of
each American Colony, & the importance they are of to [the]
promote the flourishing state of the rest, I am of opinion it will be
judged expedient to take every step which may be necessary to
prevent their receiving any check in their growth, which must
certainly put them back several years, a the consequence [of]
whereof I am apprehensive will not only be felt throughout this
Country, but also in Great Britain — The forts which are erected
to cover and protect the Country are Certainly built in the most
judicious manner, & in the most advantagious places, to ansr.
that end, but I must beg leave to observe to your Lordship that
tho' they may prove a means of retarding the progress of an Army,
Seven Years' War 463
they can in no way prevent the Invasion of the Indians, who can
enter the Country in small partys by taking a Compass round
these Garrisons-the impossibility of ascertaining their number in
the woods, & the little purpose it would be to pursue them, or
find them out, rendering any attempt from the Garrisons not only
imprudent but ineffectual (as we have often Experienced) even
tho' a Commanding Officer had notice of their approach, which
very rarely happens. In the meantime these partys, fall upon
the settlements in different parts, dr can in any well settled Country
along the banf^s of Rivers, (which are commonly well inhabited) ,
cut off [& destroy] a number of Families, Destroy their houses,
effects & grain, all within the Compass of a very few hours, and
then return by a different rout to some of their places of rendez-
vous, they can also find frequent opportunities of seizing upon
Ammunition, in many places, as well as surprising boats going
up with the same either with Traders or to the Garrisons, and as
they can. furnish themselves with provisions when they Chuse,
they can be in no want of that article even if they should not find
sufficient at the Settlements — upon the first Stroke as before
mentioned the surviving Inhabitants, together with all those near
them immediately forsake their dwellings, & retire with their
familys, in [to] the utmost terror, poverty, & distress to the next
towns, striking a panic into the Inhabitants who then become
fearfull of going to any of the posts — Trade becomes at once
stagnated, nothing can be carried to any of the Posts, without
an Escort, & unless tis a very strong one (which is not always
to be procured) the Whole may fall into the hands of the Indians
— the Soldiers cannot stir at any Instance, from the Garrisons,
without an imminent risque of Death or [of] Captivity. The Inds.
become Encouraged, & the miserable rems. Inhabitants, are so
terrified with the Crueltys Exercised upon their Neighbours, that
they will not be prevailed upon to return to their former habita-
tions — This picture of a State of a Country under an Indian
War, however [improbable] it may at first seem, will be found
on due examination not to have been exaggerated & I could even
say much more, [//] on that subject if I was not apprehensive I
464 Sir William Johnson Papers
have already [should thereby] tresspass^ too far on your Lord-
ship's patience, & business of greater importance —
If this mischief can be the Consequence of a breach [of] with
the Inds. I humbly submit it to your Lordship whether it will be
not [be] tend more to the [honour] [advantage] interest of the
Crown, & the good of the Publick, to prevent it from taking
effect, & that at a much less expence than one Expedition will be
to endeavor at quelling them.
The French having [some] many people who not only learned
the Inds. Language, but resided amongst them, as also Mission-
arys in most of the distant Nations, who [made] consented their
engaging in the War — [as] a[bove] Matter Essential to their
Salvation. It was no wonder they [had great advantage over
us &] had great influence over them & advantage over us, who
were without [their] such assistance, [so that I] Insomuch that
I do assure your Lordship, I have at sometimes during the course
of the War, thought myself very happy, & that I did good
service, when I have with great difficulty prevailed upon some of
them [to] to preserve a Neutrality, & by some Influence which I
had, prevented many of their Schemes from being put in Execu-
tion, altho' [alone] singly opposed to [the interest of] a Number
of people, employed by the French every way well qualified for
such Employment. Insomuch that however small my Services
may have appeared at home, I have been often induced to wonder,
how I was enabled to do so much. — I hope your Lordship will
pardon this digression as it [leads me] is introductory to [my
Subject] what I purpose observing That to prevent all the before-
mentioned ill consequences, [&] to [gain] conquer the fears and
Jealousys, & to gain the Esteem & friendship of the Indians by
which we may be enabled peaceably & quietly to [Enlarge &]
Settle & Enlarge our Frontier, & in time become an over Match
for them in the interior part of the Country, It will be absolutely
necessary that we should for a time (at least) continue to show
them some Countenance, & not withdraw our hands at a time
which will confirm their mistrusts.
That in order the more Effectually to do this, [the Command^.
Seven Years War 465
Officer] I may be enabled to give them some presents as formerly,
gradually lessening the Value thereof — that the Comds. Officers
at the most Considerable of the Outposts may also be enabled to
make them presents of some small articles, on their making their
Visits, which will prevent their entertaining that Jealousy [&]
concerning us which they have hitherto done-but above all that
from the Extent of our pres1. Alliances, & the road wh our Con-
quests have opened to so many Nations, [that] I may be allowed
such a Number of proper Officers, as are absolutely necessary for
the management of Indn. Affairs as Depy. Agents in the dist.
Quarters, who are to enquire into the State of the Inds. to settle
all differences between them, & the Whites, to be present at their
meetings & hold meetings with them, to make frequent Visits
within their Districts, & to procure & Transmit me from time to
time all the Intelligence which they can possibly procure, relative
to the Inds. whereby any Schemes tends, to disturb the Colonies
may be crushed in the Bud and prevented from taking Effect.
That for that purpose one will be necessary at1
The Rl HonbIe. The Earl of EGREMONT —
INDORSED:
May 1 762
Heads of a letter to the
Earl of Egremont
TO THE PENNSYLVANIA COMMISSIONERS
Contemporary Copy
Johnson Hall, June 2d 1762
Gentlemen
I am favoured with your Letter of the 26th. ulto3 in answer to
which I am to inform you that having received the Orders of his
late Majesty in Council bearing date Aug1. 29th. 1 759 Directing
1 End of the manuscript.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:745-46.
466 Sir William Johnson Papers
me to examine thoroughly into the Complaints made by the
Delaware Indians concerning their Lands, & for that purpose as
soon as possible to hold a Meeting with them. I accordingly
gave the earliest Notice to Teedyuscung and all concerned that
they might attend the same which thro' some means was notwith-
standing delayed, until on a second application Teedyuscung
agreed to meet me at Easton the 1 5th. of this instant together
with two Gentlemen Commissioners on behalf of the Proprietors
of which I have had notice the other day from Governor
Hamilton —
I can neither see the occasion or propriety of the Meeting
which you say is shortly to take place at Lancaster for renewing the
Chain of friendship between the Government of Pensilvania &
the Northern & Western Indians, the same having been performed
on behalf of the English in General, and all matters settled with
those Indians at the Treaty held by me last year at the Detroit, all
which has been since confirmed at a Meeting lately held at my
House, and as the time is now appointed & agreed to by
Teedyuscung who informs me by Letter that he will at the
before mentioned time attend with such Indians as are necessary
for stating their claim to the Lands in question. I cannot by any
means consistent with his Late Majestys Order, the good of
the service, & the duty of my Office postpone an Affair of
that importance, which hath already been too long deferred
I am Gentlemen
&ca —
To the Com", for the Province of Pensilvania.
In Consequence of the foregoing the Congress was held at
Easton, as intended by Sir Wm. Johnson, who set out for that
place the1 of June. — and arrived there the 1 3th. but was pre-
vented from doing any Material business till the 1 8th. the Indians
being daily in Liquor.2 —
1 Blank in the manuscript.
2 The foregoing material, beginning "In consequence of . . . ," is
entered in the Journal of Indian Affairs as an annotation following
the copy of the letter to the Pennsylvania Commissioners.
Seven Years' War 467
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Fort George New York June 6ih 1762
Dear Sir
When you know that I have had an additional misfortune in
my family by the loss of my youngest daughter2 I hope you will
excuse my not having answered your favour of the 1 5th3 of last
month before this time. You will readily think that these repeated
losses of those who were the dearest to me must be very hard to
bear at my age
I am fully perswaded that Lydeus4 is a very dangerous man
& should be glad to have him well curbed. He is now under
Prosecution by order of the Government for intruding on the
Kings land & is to be tried next circuit at Albany. I am affrayed
that the attorney General is not sufficiently informed of the
Witnesses & by that means that Lydeus may escape. If you
could be at Albany in the time [the] of the Circuits you certainly
will be of great use in this as well as in some others where this man
is greatly to blame. I am perswaded he will go on in the like
practise till he is throughly humbled
You may certainly qualify as a Justice of Peace at Albany as
the others do in which case you will preside in the Justice Court.
I receive great pleasure in your success with the Indians &
congratulate you on it
For a fortnight past I have every day expected General
Monckton's5 arival & still continue to expect it hourly when the
wind is fair Tho after his arival I shall not have it much in my
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 See Cadwallader Colden to Johnson, May 3, 1762. Ante p. 441.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:739-40.
4 John Henry Lydius.
5 Major general Robert Monckton.
468 Sir William Johnson Papers
power to serve you Yet it will give me the greatest pleasure to
serve you in any shape wherein I can
I am with great regard & sincerity
Sir
Your most obedient &
humble servant
Cadwallader Colden
The Honourable
Sir William Johnson Baron1
indorsed:1
New York June 6th. 1 762
Lieu1. Govr. Coldens Letter
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.2
Lebanon June 27, 1762.
Hond. Sir
I wrote You[r Honr]3 last fall4 of the Act of the Gen1.
Assembly at Boston in which they desirred me to obtain Six
Children of the Six Nations to be educated in the School under
My Care, towards the Support of Whom [the] sd Assembly
Voted 1 2 pounds to each of them for one Year that £ 72.
in ye. Whole of the Interest of Sir Peter Warrens Legacy
deposited in their Hands. And I desired the Benefit of Your
Honours Acquaintance & Influence among the Several Tribes
for the chusing and Sending the Boys to me and I hoped
that Negyes5 Staying Might be in favour [afr/e] to the Design
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Dartmouth College Library.
3 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
4 Wheelock to Johnson, Dec. 11, 1761, ante p. 344.
5 A Mohawk Indian.
Seven Years' War 469
as he Might accompany them hither, but hearing Nothing
from You[r Honour] I Wrote again Last Spring but
still hearing Nothing I now send David Fowler1 to wait upon
Your Honour With this. And I pray Your Honour if you think
favourably of the Affair, if You Will please to grant all that
Assistance Which May be needful in it, Your Honr. best of
any Man, knows Who are likely to Answer the End proposed & I
can trust the matter no where safer than in yr. Hon" Hands,
these Three which I now have are well & behave very Well
and have made laudable Proficiency in reading and Writing
(a Specimen I inclose) and they may be three of the Six. and
I desire at least Three more of the Six Nations as the [^o/e]
Act of sd Assembly confines me to them. And if 3. or 4. Female
can be added suitable for the Purpose to be Educated in good
Families in all Sorts of Good Housewifery &c I shall be glad
if You will please to Send them. And David informs me of an
English Youth Who has been a Captive Among the Senecas
and is Master of their Language who he thinks may likely be
fitted Soon for the Business of Interpreter to that Nation if this
be so, or if Your Honr. knows of Several such Who are likely
and may be soon fitted for [public!? business of] Interpreters or
Missionaries among Any of The Tribes please to Send them.
I have received Such Encouragemts of late in the Affair that I
design as fast As I can obtain such as are promising to increase
My Number to 25. or 30. — relying on his Goodness Who
Provide has hithto [provided for] supported it that he Will
Still open the Hearts and hands of his people to contribute
Supplies for it. the Barer can inform Your Honr. of the
Encouragements Which I ha' receivd.
I have had thots (and have consulted Some Gentlemen Who
favour them) of Sending Young Kirtland2 to N. Jersie College
Next Fall, And Joseph3 with him to bed & board with him of
1 A Montauk Indian.
2 The Rev. Samuel Kirkland.
3 Joseph Brant.
470 Sir William Johnson Papers
Whom Mr. Kirtland may be learning something of the Mohawke
Language Without any great Interruption to his other Studies,
While Joseph in the Grammer School there May be perfecting
himself in the English [Language] Tongue and also pursuing
other parts of Useful Learning perhaps fitting for College. Joseph
can now read hansomely in the Bible, please Sir to favour Me
with Your thots of this proposal by David, and please to order
Matters So as that he may return as Soon as may be to his Studies,
and please to accept the Most Sincere Profession of Respect
& Esteem from. Hond. Sir.
Your Hon" Most Obedient
and Most Humble Servant
Eleazar Wheelock
The Hon,e Sir Willm Johnson —
INDORSED:
Letter to Sr. William
Johnson June 27.
1762.
FROM WILLIAM WALTERS
Niagara 30th. June 1762.
Dear Sir
I wrote You in my Letter dated 23d.2 May that Mr. Deconey3
had told me that Some people was at Torronto Trading with the
Indians since that some Traders from hence has been there and
has brought Copys of the Traders Passes Trading at Torranto;
which copys I now Enclose to you by which You will find that
they are allowed to Trade with Rum with the Indians, which
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Gratz Collection.
2 Not found.
3 Jean Baptiste De Couagne. See his letter of June 27, 1762,
Johnson Calendar, p. 138, making this same complaint of the traders
at Toronto.
Seven Years' War 471
all the Traders here complain of greatly, as it Intirely Spoils
their Trade at this post as all the Indians Resort to the place
where they Can be Supply'd with Rum —
I am Dear Sir
Your most obedient
Humble Servant
WM. Walters
To Sir William Johnson Baronet
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
New York 5th- hh 1762 —
Sir
As I am so much out of order since last night, and cannot do
myself the honour of waiting on Your Excellency this day, I
hope you will excuse this method of doing business. — which
I should not take, were I certain of being better to morrow. —
The enclosed Paper shews Your Excellency what I want, to
enable me to discharge Sundry Accounts, and carry on the
Service. —
I should wish to know what answer I shall (on my arrival at
Home) make to the complaints of the Six Nations, and others
relative to their Lands, wh. the Connecticut People and others
say they will settle on, and that soon, also to their complaint of
Maltreatment received at severall of the Posts. —
I must beg leave to observe to your Excellency that should the
New England, or any other sett of People be allowed to disposess
the Indians of their Lands on the Susquahana, or elsewhere, it
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
472 Sir William Johnson Papers'
will create a great deal of trouble, and in my opinion overset all
ye. Salutary and political measures, which have been so successfully
pursued for some time with the many Nations. —
I have the honour to be with the
greatest respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient &
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath &ca.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
New York July 5* 1762 —
A Warrant for two thousand pounds Sterling, to pay the
Officers, Interpreters, Smiths and other expences lately accrued, the
Ace". Shall be made out, and sent down soon after I get Home. —
to know whether Conrad Franks Acclt. which amounts to
above £ 1 00 Currc?. for Services done by him in ye. year 1 756
is to be paid here, the said Ace", is in the hands of Mr. Oliver
Delancey, the Man keeps teazing me for the Money, altho. ye.
half I believe, was for Cap1. Pattens2 Grenadier Company then
going to Osswego. —
Mr. Croghan3 begged me to remind your Excellency of his
last Ace". & that he might have a Warrant for the Am1, thereof,
being much pinched for the money. —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Captain David Patton.
3 Croghan's memoranda for Johnson, July 3, 1 762, destroyed by fire.
See Johnson Calendar, p. 139, and Johnson Papers, 3:823.
Seven Years' War 473
He is also verry desireous to know, whether that Sum of £191,
which he engaged for, by order of General Stanwix be yet
allowed. —
Some Ammunition, and other small Articles, as paint, knives,
Flints &ca, are verry necessary to be given occasionally at Fort
Pitt, Niagra & Detroit to ye. Severall parties of Indians, who call
there in their way to War against the Southeren Indians, particular-
ly at the former. —
WM. Johnson
INDORSED :
Menorandums
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 18th. July 1762
Sir
I Had last night a Letter from Governor Fitch,2 in Answer
to mine Regarding the Lands on the Susquehannah River, claimed
by the Connecticut People, whereby it appears that the Governor
has taken the most Effectual method in his power for preventing
any Such Attempts, by Issuing a proclamation, Strictly forbidding
any of the Inhabitants of that colony from Settling on the Said
Lands; And by the last night's post, I had Likewise a Letter
from Governor Hamilton,3 Acquainting me that he had received
a Copy of the above proclamation from a friend of his in
Connecticutt, which had given him Entire Satisfaction, as he was in
hopes it would have the Effect of putting a Stop to Any further
proceedings in this affair. I Enclose You a Copy of the proclama-
tion, and I flatter myself the Fears, and Jealousies of the Indians
on this head will Entirely Subside, as it is very Apparent that the
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Thomas Fitch, governor of Connecticut, 1754-1766.
3 James Hamilton, governor of Pennsylvania.
474 Sir William Johnson Papers
pretenders to those Lands are in no Shape whatsoever Counte-
nanced by the Government.
I am
Sir
&c
Sir Wm. Johnson, Bar1.
TO DANIEL CLAUS
Fort Johnson 2Jsi. July 1762
Dear Claus/
this day I arrived here after Six weeks absence, haveing been
at Easton to Settle yl. Affr. of Tedyescungs, wh. after a great
deal of opposition from ye. Quaker RascK I settled to Satisfac-
tion, and am now busy to prepare ye. proceedings, & report for
his Majestys perusual & determination, —
I recd. yrs. of the 2d. Ult0.2 *p Lieu1. Stevenson3 yesterday in
Albany, and spoke with Old Mr. Stevenson abl. it, who told me
his Son would go to York, and try his Interest concerning it and
did not doubt of getting ye. Genrls. consent, in wh. case, I told
his Father, I would Settle ye. Affair with him concerning ye.
purchase, he promised to let me hear the Issue as soon as
possible; for my part, I cannot, as matters are at present circum-
stanced between ye. Genr1. & me, with propriety ask him any
thing. — but I cannot see that there is anything in yr. Way, to
hinder yr. writeing ye. Genr1. yr. Intentions, or inclinations, nor
can I see or think he will make any difficulty about it, provided you
give him any plausable reason, but I think it would be right,
and what I believe is always done, to make an offer to Yr. own
Corps first. - — I would not have you do any thing Disagreable to
yr Comd8. officer, I mean any thing wh. could give him or any
1 In Canadian Archives, Miscellaneous Papers 1714-1790, Claus
Papers, W. Vol. 14.
2 Johnson Papers, 3 :75 1 .
3 Lieut. James Stevenson.
Seven Years' War 475
body room to charge You wth. haveing done a wrong or Irregular
thing
all here are well, and desire to be remembered to You, & as
Mr. Welles1 will be the Bearer of this I must refer You to him
for news &ca., —
I am
Sincerely Yrs.
WM. Johnson
wrote at 1 0 at night, as Mr. Welles
setts of in ye. Morning —
INDORSED :
Sr. Wm. Johnsons Letter
22<*. July 1 762. —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York, 25* July 1762
Sir
I had last night a Letter from Colonel Bouquet3 Enclosing
me a State of the Standing Expences of the Indian Department
under Mr. Croghan, a Copy whereof I herewith transmit You, as
I should be glad to have your Opinion whether they may not be
considerably retrenched, they Appearing to me to be very high.
I have ordered Colonel Bouquet to Strike off one of the assistants,
as I can't think that two can be Necessary.
I am
Sir
&c
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
1 John Welles.
2 In Public Record office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 Colonel Henry Bouquet of the 60th regiment.
476 Sir William Johnson Papers
EDWARD JENKINS TO HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy1
Extracted out of a Letter from Lieu*. Edwd. Jenkins2 Commanding
at Ouiatinon;3 To Major Henry Gladwin4 Commandant of
Detroit,
Dated Fort Ouiatinon July 29th. 1762
Sir
Two days ago the Bearer arrived from the Illinois, who assures
me that the People in that part of the world are for a quiet life,
I mean the French but he says the Indians wanted the Commanding
Officer to come and attack these posts, which he refused. The
English-woman that is along with him, told me that the Canadians
were advising the Indians to Murder us all in these posts, but that
they would not be seen in it themselves ; but I shall say no more of
it as the woman will acquaint you all she knows about it ; she says
she heard the Bearer talk of it; indeed I would have examined
him, but the woman was afraid as she was to go farther with him,
and you are in a much better place for it than I. —
Yours &ca
Signed
Edwd Jenkins
JIn Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, inclosed in Johnson
to Amherst, July 8, 1 763, In Doc. Rel. To Col. Hist, N. Y., 7:531-2.
2 Lieutenant Edward Jenkins of the 60th regiment.
3 Ouiattonon (Wawiaghtonon) on the Wabash river, near the site of
present Lafayette, Indiana.
4 Major Henry Gladwin after receiving the rank of major in 1 759
from Amherst (his commission is dated Dec. 30, 1 760) , was sent
with a detachment of 300 men to garrison the fort at Detroit. Because of
a severe illness in the summer of 1761, he was forced to return to
England. In August 1 762 he returned to Detroit, but by December was
at Fort William Augustus. In 1 763 he returned to Detroit where he
succeeded Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment as commandant.
He was still stationed there when Pontiac's War broke out in May 1 763.
On August 26, 1 764, reinforcements got through to Detroit and Gladwin
was allowed to return to England. He received his lieutenant colonelcy
Sept. 1 7, 1 763.
Seven Years War All
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Frys2 near Conajohare August Ist. [1762]
5 in the Morning
Sir
I arrived here at 2 a Clock this Morning in consequence of
an Express wh. I received at 1 0 a Clock last night from one of my
Militia Officers, acquainting me that the German Flatts was
destroyed by the Indians, on which I imediately sett out and
ordered the Militia3 & Mohawks to follow, but shortly after my
arrival here, I received a Second Express declareing it to have
been a false report occasioned by the noise and running about of
a Drunken Indian, which, together with the magnified terrors of
the Inhabitants, and a report which they had heard a few days
ago of a design to destroy their Settlement, was the cause of the
alarm. —
I cannot think the Indians have any such design in agitation
from the favourable disposition I find all the Westeren & Northeren
Indians in, (from whom I the other day received a Calumet with
a freindly message, and severall Belts of Wampum renewing &
confirming all their engagements) as also from the present Stage
of the Six Nations in generall.
However I have given the necessary Orders to the Militia
and posted some of them for this day on the Road near the German
Flatts, in order to Support the Inhabitants in case of an attack,
and shall send a Message to the Indians requireing to know the
Cause as well on this occasion as of their late behaviour to Bourk a
Sutler at Fort Schyler4 which Affair I know Your Excellency
is already made acquainted with. —
Silver Heels & Peter arrived here a few days ago, and seemed
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Hendrick Frey.
8 See Johnson Papers, 3:834.
4 At Oneida, N. Y.
478 Sir William Johnson Papers
so much discontented at their not haveing received what they
expected, that I found myself under a necessitty of makeing
them a small present of Money, until I knew Your Excellencys
pleasure. —
I am to acknowledge the Honour of Your Excellencys letter
of the 18th. Ult0.1 together with the Govr. of Connecticuts
proclamation, I wish it may stop their proceeding in the
Settlement of the Lands on Susquahana, but I am apprehensive
(from the Nature and Number of the People concerned) it
will after some little time fail in the desired effect. —
I have the Honour to be
with all imaginable respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst —
PS. the vast quantity of Rum which is
Sold to the Indians at the German Flatts
by a few Individuals, is greatly complained
of by the rest of the Inhabitants, as well as
by the Sachims, & sensible Indians, who are
verry apprehensive of it's being productive
of some fatal consequence, unless soon put a Stop to. —
nay the good ends intended by the total prohibition of the Sale
of Rum at the Severall Posts, will in a great measure be frustrated,
unless prohibitted at the German Flatts & along this River
as far as Albany or Schenectady. —
* Ante p. 473.
Seven Years' War 479
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York 4th. August 1762
Sir
By an Express last night from Albany I have Letters from
Colonel Bradstreet and Capt : Winepress,2 Enclosing me a Copy of
your Orders to the Militia Captains on receiving Intelligence of the
Indians having Destroy'd the Inhabitants of the German Flatts;
but as they Knew nothing more of this Affair, I flatter myself it
will turn out to be a false alarm, occasioned by Some Drunken
quarrel, in which perhaps Some of the Inhabitants may have
lost their Lives.
As there are upwards of Ninety Men of Captain Hopkin's
New Raised Independant Company ready to Sail this Morning for
Albany, under the Command of Lieut: Cuyler,3 who has my
orders to proceed to the Detroit, I now write to Colonel Brad-
street, that You may make Use of these men to Quell any Dis-
turbances that the Indians may have Raised, if You think
Necessary. After which you will be pleased to order Lieut.
Cuyler to pursue his Route Agreable to his former Instructions:
but I am hopefull Every thing will be Quiet before Arrival of
this Detachment, as I would rather his March Should not be
retarded.
I am
Sir
&c
Sir Willm. Johnson, Bar*.
Fort Johnson.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Captain William Winepress of the 55th regiment.
3 Lieutenant Cornelius Cuyler.
480 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[Johnson Hall August 11-12, 1762]
August the 1 1 th 1 762, Five Oneida Deputies arrived from
their Nation, to Apologize, in the name of the rest, for the
Behaviour of some of their People at Fort Schuyler,2 in Staving
the Liquor of a Sutler3 residing there, &ca.
The Deputies desired the Mohocks would be present at their
Meeting, and accordingly several of them came for that Purpose.
At a Meeting at Johnson Hall, August 1 2th, with the Oneida
Deputies, and several Mohocks of both Castles.
Present
Sir William Johnson
Lieu1. Guy Johnson Witham Marsh, Sec.
Nicholasera, one of the Oneida Sachems addres'd Sir William,
and said,4
Brother Warraghyagey,
I am extremely concern'd at the Occasion which brings Us
down now to remove all evil Thoughts from your Heart, concern-
ing the late bad Behaviour of some of our People at Fort Schuyler;
and I hope you will believe me, when I declare to you from my
heart, that We are all heartily sorry for it.
Brother,
At the time the thing happen'd, there were a number of Indians
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Oneida., N. Y.
3 A sutler named Bourk. See Amherst to Johnson, Aug. 1 , 1 762,
Johnson Papers, 3:836.
4 Speech of Nicholasera was inclosed in Johnson to Amherst, August
1 4, 1 762. See Baugh to Amherst, July 20, 1 762 ; Amherst to Baugh,
August 1 , 1 762 ; Amherst to Johnson, August 1 , 1 762 ; and Amherst
to Johnson, August 7, 1762; Johnson Papers, 3:831-59.
Seven Years' War 481
of several Nations, even from Swegautchi,1 about Fort Schuyler,
in order to take young Pigeons, of which there was great Plenty
thereabouts : and as you know it is usual for our young men to be
desirous to get Liquor, — Several of them went to the Sutler's
for that purpose, who sold them it in great plenty: upon which,
we went to Him, and cautioned him against So doing, but He
continued to let them have it, notwithstanding our endeavours to
the contrary. In the mean time, one Sarah Montour came from Fort
Stanwix, with a Barrel of Wine, and desired a Meeting with all
our Sachems, in order to get some Land from them for her
Child (which She was desirous should be near the old Oneida
Castle as thereby the English would be prevented from taking it)
which being granted ; She Treated our Sachems with Wine. Dur-
ing this time, our young Men went to the Sutler's, bought Rum, &
drank of it till they became quite drunk, whereupon the Sutler
refused to let them have any more, and shut up his House, which
occasioned one of them who was very much in Liquor, assisted
with some others, to break open a piece of Bark off the House,
and take out a Barrel of Rum, which was about half full of Rum,
and imediately roll'd it into the Woods, and began to drink;
but our Women, to prevent them, overset the Barrel, and Spill'd all
the Liquor. — On this occasion, our people made much noise,
and ran about after their manner, without knowing what they
were about, and this might have been the Cause of the Report
you have heard.
This is the whole Truth of the affair; which has given
Us all great Concern, especially since We find you had heard so
much to our Disadvantage about it: and we now beg you will
beleive Us to be sincere, and that We had not the least evil
Intentions; but only acted as all mad drunken people will do:
for if we had had the least bad Thought, or Design of Attacking
the Fort, which was very far from our Intentions, We should not
have attempted it at a time when We were so much in Liquor:
therefore We beg you will beleive what We have Said, and that
Oswegatchie.
482
Sir William Johnson Papers
We never had any Design contrary to the friendship between Us,
but on the contrary, are determined to continue to act as Brethren,
to Use all our Endeavours from time to time, to prevent any
Differences from arising between Us; and We hope you will, on
your parts, do the Same. — And We likewise request you will
not suffer any more Rum to be sold by the People at the German
Flats; for, so long as it is permitted, it will be almost impossible
for us to prevent quarrels, and Disputes from arising.
Gave a black & white Belt of 7 Rows.
Then Canadagaya, a Sachem of the Mohocks address'd Sir
William; and after repeating the old Covenants, and agreements,
entered into between the English, and Them, requested that the
late affair might be forgiven, as the Oneidaes had expressed so
much Contrition for the same.
Gave three Belts.
Then told Sir William that they were very uneasy to find
they could not now Travel to the westward, nor any Nations to
them, without a Pass-port, which could not be at all times and
places procured; and whereby, they were prevented from corre-
sponding with Us, for the Good of the whole. — Therefore
earnestly intreated They might be at Liberty to proceed from
Place to Place, without a Pass-port, as formerly.
Gave a Belt.
To which Sir William answered them as follows.
Brethren of the Oneidas;
Your Behaviour at Fort Schuyler, has not only given me
great Vexation, but has also highly exasperated General Amherst,
particularly on the Information received of your Attempt to
get into the Fort. — Such Treatment from Neighbours, and
People, who ought to live on the best Terms with Us, is really
very extraordinary, and calls for our highest Resentment: I am
glad, however, that you express so much Sorrow, for what then
passed, and that you make so many Promises of amendment ; and
Seven Years' War 483
I expect it will prove a Sufficient warning to you for the future,
as I have Sir Jeffery Amherst's orders to assure you, that if you
should ever offend in the like manner again, or any of the other
Tribes, you must expect to be punished as your Crime shall deserve.
I have acquainted the General with the quantity of Liquor sold
at the German Flats, and I make no doubt but He will take
all measures to put a Stop thereto.
A Belt of 7 Rows.
Brethren of the Mohawks,
I am very glad to find that you so well remember the
ancient Covenants, and agreements, enter'd into between Us ; and
I hope, that as you bear them in mind, you will not fail to
observe and follow them on your Parts, which will be the only
means of Engaging Us to an Observance of them.
I know of no obstruction, or hinderance you can meet with
on the Roads, and therefore I am induced to believe it must have
arisen from some Mistake, as you may always depend on the free
enjoyment of every reasonable Liberty, so long as you preserve
in remembrance your several Covenants and agreements, and
pay a due observance to the Peace subsisting between Us.
A Belt
After this, the Oneida Sachems having taken into Considera-
tion the Damage done to the Sutler, said to Sir William, "That at
present tho they were destitute of almost all kinds of Provisions,
and were now obliged to catch what few Fish they could, in the
River and Creeks, and were very poor; yet they would, after
their next hunting was over in the Fall, assemble their People,
and cause each of them to contribute something towards reimburs-
ing the Sutler for the loss He had Sustained, which, they were
informed, was not near so great as He had reported.
484 Sir William Johnson Papers
TESTIMONY OF STEPHEN SAYRE
Df.1
London August 14th 1762
In Conversation with Coln Elip1 Dyer one of the Committee,
he says That the Charter of the Government of Connecticut
extends its Limits to the pacific Ocean west; and notwithstanding
its being cut in two by the Province of New York (at that time
under the Dutch) afterwards granted to the Duke of York;
likewise the province of Pennsylvania granted to its proprietor Mr
Penn yet the Limits west of those Governments would by no means
be contracted by virtue of those particular Grants, any more than
that a private person should relinquish the one and be contented
with the other half of his Farm Because his neighbour's Field
divided it in the middle; that the justice of this way of reasoning
was not confined to themselves only as appeared by applications
repeatedly made to them concerning some tracts of Land about the
Menesinks not long since disputed by New2 and amicably settled
by deputies from each province; this gave room to imagine that
by a purchase made of the Indians on those western Limits they
should secure to themselves no more than what was realy meant
and intended in their Charter; accordingly a number of men
belonging to the Province applyed to those Indians living on the
Susquahannah who Very candidly declared they had no right
to dispose of any land thereabouts and that the real Proprietors
were the Six Nations.
Upon a meeting with the Iroquois in the year fifty four, they
endeavoured to effect a purchase of those Lands with Hendrick
1 In possession of Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia,
Pa.; printed in The Susquehannah Company Papers, 1750-1772, 2:151-
55 ; condensed footnotes used through the courtesy of Mr. Julian P. Boyd,
editor ; manuscript letter in New York State Library badly damaged by fire.
2 Some words have been omitted here, obviously the following: "New
York and New Jersey." Efforts to settle the boundry line between the
two colonies by a joint commission were begun as early as 1 747 and,
after many interruptions, finally concluded in 1 769.
Seven Years' War 485
their Chief but were disappointed by the false insinuations of Sir
William Jonston, nevertheless they did effect it the same year
and obtained a firm deed for a tract on the Susquahanah including
the 42d degree of north Latitude and from about ten Miles east of
the river extending west about two Degrees of Longitude for
which land they gave a large Sum of Money. That the proprietors
immediately applyed to the Government of Connecticut and have
obtained liberty for a seperate jurisdiction as the uniting that
part with this would be attended with insurmountable difficulties.
That to defray the expences of many meetings on this Affair the
proprietors have determined to admit two Hundred more who
come in under the same advantages with others by paying about
eight pounds per Share and some of those are yet undisposed of.
Mr Grey Clerk of the Committee1 assembled on the 19th May
1 762 declares that the Business of the meeting was to determine if
possible to throw in a Settlement upon the said Lands, and they
have accordingly obtained Votes2 for above One Hundred
Families who promise to proceed immediately and in defiance of
Mr Penn and his Emissaries to plant themselves down on the
said Lands. The Committee in order to Ballance the difficulties
and disadvantages they must be under as first adventurers have
granted them an extent of ten Miles on whatever part they please
excepting the great Meadows. This they have given them ex-
clusive of their Proportions as Proprietors, and the said Committee
have formed another Committee who are to take care that proper
and welthy persons only are admitted to make this first Settlement
as well as to give them proper directions in what manner to govern
themselves in this critical affair.
Their last resolve was to endeavour to get this ratified at Home
as soon as it can demand the attention of the Ministry. And they
are of the opinion that the speedy Settlement of some part will
have great weight to determine it in their favour, another Circum-
1 The original draft bears, in the handwriting of Henry Wilmot, the
following interlineation: "Of Sus. Co."
2 The original draft is interlined here in Wilmot's handwriting: "Not
of the Assbly."
486 Sir William Johnson Papers
stance from which they promise themselves great Advantage is;
that their Province have supported the present as well as the late
War with a truly brittish Spirit and Vigour, while on the other
hand the inhabitants of a certain proprietary Government are
stained with infamy by the ravages of dastardly wretches meerly
because it was proprietary.
Mr Edwards another of the said Committee told me candidly
that Mr Ingerson1 had in fact presented the resolve or memorial
made by the Government in their favour, to Mr Pitt and many
others who gave him great encouragement and that it should be
duly considered in its proper Season, and for this end Mr Ingerson
has engaged a friend to give him timely Advice, upon which Col.
Elip* Dyer is to embark immediately for England invested with
the above armour.
I find it is the opinion of the Committee that the said hundred
Men cannot proceed untill next Spring as the Season is now
too far spent to plant and Sow. I endeavoured to obtain Copies
of the proceedings of the meeting on the 1 9th as well as of other
meetings but found it impossible neither would they confess that
anything material was committed to writing, for at one meeting
they often destroyed what they had made at another but your
Lordship may depend upon the above to be genuine and a truth,
for never were any set of mortals more effectually deceived than
they found themselves when I made a demand of the Memorial
from the Secretary who was very unwilling to certify it.
I have the honour to be your Lordships very humble servant
Stephen Sayre2
indorsed :
Mr Sayre's Account of what he heard in
Connecticut respecting the Susquehannah Settlement,
June 1 762
1 Jared Ingersoll.
2 See biographical note of Stephen Sayre in The Susquehannah Company
Papers, 2: 152-53.
Seven Years' War 487
TO JOHN TABOR KEMPE
L.S.1
Johnson Hall August 20ih. 1762.
Sir
I should have done myself the pleasure of writing you sooner,
had not my time been so taken up in finishing several matters which
I am to send home. —
I have not been able to get you any further Information regard-
ing the Land in dispute between Klock, Funda and the Cona-
joharee Indians than this, Viz1. That Abraham Vanhorne, Willm.
Provost, Philip Livingston, and Mary Burnet were the Original
Patentees; that Philip Livingston now of New York and the
rest of the late Philip Livingstons Children are concerned, or
have shares in the Land in Dispute, and that they sold their part
to George Klock, & Jelles Funda, both Inhabitants of the Mohock
River —
I cannot say how it is with regard to the Heirs of the other three
Patentees, but doubt not you can be informed at New York —
Whilst I was at Easton; two more of the Tenants namely, John
Heathcock, & Philip Garlock living on said Lands ab*. 20 years
and paying Rent to the Indians, were served with Ejectments by
Klock, Funda and the Livingstons, and were to appear at the
late Supreme Court held the last Tuesday in the last Month,
which I suppose you are acquainted with — The poor people who
live on this Land in dispute, are very much distressed & frightened
at the threats & proceedings of Klock & Funda, and the Indians
are vastly displeased and uneasy on account of their ticklish situa-
tion, as matters seem to them now Circumstanced —
I must therefore beg you will let me know your opinion of,
and what is to be done in the affair, so that I may quiet the minds of
the Indians, who looking upon themselves to be greatly injured
1 In Massachusetts Historical Society. In Guy Johnson's hand.
488 Sir William Johnson Papers
in the case, having never sold, or received any payment for the
Land in dispute expect to be redressed —
I am,1 Sir truely
Your Welwisher
& Humble Servant
John Kempe Esq'. WM- Johnson
Attorney General
P. S. pray let me know
whether Mr. Smith Junr.
is employed or not in this case. —
INDORSED :
August 20*. 1 763
Letter from Sr. Wm. Johnson
To J no T. Kempe
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York, 22*. Aug'. 1762
Sir
I had last night the Favor of Your Letter of the 1 4th. Instant,3
Enclosing the Speech of the Oneida Sachem,4 in vindication of
the Indians' late Behaviour, and a State of the Standing Expences
of the Indian Department under Mr. Croghan, as retrenched by
You; which latter I Shall Abide by, as You are certainly the
best Judge of what is Necessary for that Service.
I shall Immediately order Capt. Baugh5 to make Strict En-
quiry into the truth of what the Indians Alledge Against the
1 From this point and P. S. in Sir William's hand.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. Vol. 38.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:858-59.
4 Nicholasera. See Indian Congress, August 11-12, 1 762.
5 Captain Thomas Baugh.
Seven Years' War 489
Suttler1 at Fort Schuyler,2 that if it appears to be true, he may
be turned away from that post, as well as prevented from coming
near Any of the Forts or Garrisons for the future.
Colonel Bradstreet and Capt. Winepress3 both assure me,
that the greatest care is taken to prevent Rum getting past the
posts; but that the Inhabitants may get up Small Quantitys,
without coming near the Garrisons, which is very probable, and
that it depends on the Civil power to punish the Retailers of this
pernicious Liquor; and Colonel Bradstreet Says there was a
Law in force for Laying a fine of Fifty pounds for Every
offence of that Kind: If there is any Law Now for prohibiting
the retailing of Rum, I am persuaded You will Order it to
be put in Execution, as nothing more can be done by the Military,
than what I have already Ordered.
I come now to that part of Your Letter regarding the Neces-
sity of your having a Deputy to Act immediately under Yourself:
if you please to let me Know the person you would chuse to have,
And the Service he is to be Employed in, I Shall readily Consent
to Your having Such assistance as appears to be necessary ; but I
must own, it looks a little Contradictory to be adding to one
department, when Retrenching in another; however, I Should be
Sorry You had more trouble than you can Easily go through. And
therefore, as I have already observed, I Shall gladly Agree to
whatever may be really usefull and requisite for the good of the
Service.
I am with the greatest Regard
Sir
&c.
Sir William Johnson, Bar'.
1 Named Bourk.
2 At Oneida, N. Y.
3 Captain William Winepress of the 55th regiment.
490 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
Johnson Hall, Sunday, August the 22d. 1762.
A Seneca Sachem arrived here, being sent by his Nation with a
Message to Sir William Johnson; the purport of which is as
follows.
Brother Gorah Warraghyagey ;
We send down one of our Chief Men to let you know that the
several Nations in this Quarter have, agreeable to your Desire,
sent as many of your People, who were Prisoners amongst them,
to Pennsylvania, as they could prevail on to go. — There are some
who, We could not persuade to return to their Friends, or Country,
which We hope you will not attribute to any neglect or Fault in
Us. — They are so well treated where they are, that they do not
chuse to leave their Place of Residence.
Brother ;
We are thankful to the Great King for allowing Us a Smith,
to mend our Arms, and working Tools. — We are much pleas'd
with the Man You have sent Us; but as He had not yet time to
repair half of our tools, &c, We beg he may be allowed to remain
with Us till Spring ; — That He be permitted to bring up, or send
for some Blankets, and other Tilings, to Sell us for covering
against the Winter; as also a little Rum, which, as many of our
People are now sick, We think would be of Service, and a means
of recovering them, — therefore I intreat you will comply with our
Request- A Belt of 7 Rows. -
To which Sir William answer'd;
Brethren of the Seneca Nation,
I am pleas'd to hear that you, and the several Nations in
that part of the Country, have acted agreeable to my desire, which
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 491
all of you, must be Sensible, was but reasonable, as We could not
look upon you to be our Friends, as long as you detained our
People amongst You. — I must tell you, that untill all His
Majesty's Subjects are delivered up to Us. We cannot think So
favourably of you, as We could wish. — Their unwillingness to
return to their Country, and Friends, is no Excuse: and there are
Several amongst them, I understand, who are not at Liberty, or
capable to Judge for themselves; wherefore, it is expected they
will all be deliver'd up to me, so that they may return to their
Families and Friends.
Brethren ; I am glad that the Smith, who has been sent to you, is
to your Liking. — I expect you will behave kind and friendly to
Him : and as you say that He has not, as yet, been able to compleat
the Work you want to be finished, I agree to his Staying with you
untill Spring. This mark of His Majesty's Indulgence to you,
will, I hope, lead you to Act well, and behave so, as to merit a
Continuation of His Royal Bounty.
I have allowed the Smith to send for such Goods, and Ammuni-
tion as may supply your wants, and that at the most reasonable
Rate He possibly can: but as to the article of Rum, you must
not expect it, the General having put an entire Stop to the Sale
of that pernicious Liquor, to any Indians whatever, with no other
view than to make your young men mind their Hunting, and
Trade, and Your Women cultivate the Lands ; both which, when
properly attended to, must make you all a much happier People,
than when Slaves to liquor.
A Belt of 7 Rows. —
The Sachem then return'd Sir William many thanks for what He
had Said : acknowledged that Rum was pernicious to Them, and
promised to deliver what Sir William had told Him, to the Nation
on his Return, which He doubted not would be agreeable. — Sir
William made him a small present, and gave him some money to
purchase provisions on his Journey, and then the Sachem took
leave of Sir William.
492 Sir William Johnson Papers
On the same day, eight Conajoharees arrived here, and in-
treated Sir William to give them a little Ammunition, and
provisions, as they were very poor. Sir William complied with
their Request, for wch. the Indians were extremely thankful,
and then set out for their Castle.
FROM OLIVER DE LANCEY
A.L.S.1
New York ye 26lh Aug« 1762
DrSir
The Bearer of This Mr Remsen2 is Going up to Crosbys
M [eaJolp]3annor To Gett it Laid out in Lotts and To Prevent
His being obstructed by the Indians I must Request You1 Take
Such Steps as will Prevent any Jealosies amongst the Indians by
which You1 Greatly Oblige me who always am
Your Affectionate Ser1
SR WM Johnson Bar1 Oliver DeLancey4
INDORSED:
N York 26*. Aug*, 1 762
From Oliver De Lancey
Esqr.
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Peter Remsen.
3 Crossed out in manuscript.
4 General Oliver De Lancey, colonel of a New York regiment under
Abercromby in French and Indian War; loyalist; and brigadier general
in the royal service in the War of the American Revolution.
Seven Years War 493
FROM CATHARYNA BRETT
Fish Kills August pe 26th 1762
Honoured Sr
Having been Informed by Mr Van Wyck2 when Your Honour
was there Last that Cap* Nimham3 had Informed You that he
had Land here and was Kept Out of his Right Sr I Should a
thought my Self happy to have waited on Your Honour at Mr
Van Wycks had I have known on it and Given You a true Ac-
count of the whole Affair which I have many Evidences to prove ;
Sr I must Trouble You with the foundation of the Affair, Upwards
of thirtie Years Ago Sr I met with a Vast Deal of Trouble by
Some White people at Poghkeepsie, Sr Wee having the Oldest
Pattent4 of any Round us, the Poghkeepsie People Getting on
that part that by Division was alloted to me and Sold part of
it I Sr Endeavoured to Convince them in a Kind Manner but there
was no Convincing of them and Sr there Lived a Vast many
Indians in this Place, When we first Came here and this Company
my Adversaries at Poghkeepsie Began to threaten me and I was
Advised to Aject two of the white people, they never Apeared
but Let Judgement Go by the fault, I Received the Writts of
Possession, this EnRaged them, to Sett up the Indians Against
me telling them that I had Stollen their Land, and they would
buy it, but Old Nimham and two of his Sons Remained my friends,
the White People Could Not Corrupt him he was an Honest
Morral Creature as Ever I knew for he was an Instrument to
protect me for I was in Danger of my Life, and I was obliged to
Complain to Governor Bornet,5 who Sent for the Ring Leader
1 In New York Historical Society, New York City. Printed in New
York Historical Society Collections (1922), Colden Papers, 6:190-92.
2 Theodore Van Wyck (?)
3 Daniel Nimham, chief of the Wappinger tribe.
4 See Calendar of Land Papers, 150, 151, 166.
5 William Burnet, governor of New York and New Jersey.
494 Sir William Johnson Papers
one Lewis and also the Indians Called a Councel on purpose,
and Ordered an Interpreter, had Our pattent and Indian Deed
Read to them, the Indians Owned the Indian Names in the
Indian Deed to have been the First Proprietors, the Governor
Reproved them and made them Decease, and the Governor
Desired Me to have that Part Surveyed so that the Indians
might be Convinced of the Bounds. He Gave a Special Warrant
to the Late Governor Colden1 Who was then Surveyor General,
who Came himself in Order to do it, but was Soon Repulsed by a
Company of Drunken Indians who were Sent by them, who
threatened to Break his Compass and was Stoped. He Sent
for me and I went too him and found Old Nimham and his two
Sons With Mr Colden, Perswading of them to Lett it be
Surveyed, but in Vain, and then I Agreed with them, to pay
them if they Would See it Done, and with much Difficulty Mr
Colden proceeded and after it was Done, the Governor Ordered
the Indians to Appear before him, and Convinced them.
And that time there was Mr Philip Cortland and Mr
Guyline VerPlank present, and the Governor Desired to make
them a present being they were Indians, and we the Pattenteis
Mr Cortlandt Mr Verplank and my Self, promised we would
but not as a Debt but to Renew friendship, I Waited a Consider-
able time for my Partners to Join with me, and the Indians were
Uneasy and they Neglected So Long, At Last I went and Paid
my Part with Amounted to Seventy Pounds, and I had Carried
to Judge Swartworts [wouts] , were Nimham came with the
Indians, and they were fully Satisfied, then this Old Nimham put
me in mind of a Promise, that I had made him, Concerning
a place where he Lived, that he and his Children might Live on
as Long as he Lived, that Neither I nor my Children Should
molest them, I Did in Gratitude to Old Nimham, being he was a
freind of mine, he never Asked me what Quantity of Land he
should have but the place were he Lived ; and when Ever he went
of [f ] , the Land was Mine. But Sr in a Little time After, Some mis-
1 Cadwallader Colden.
Seven Years War 495
chevious White people went to the Indians and hired Little Bitts of
Land and made them Give thim Leases, then they put in what
Quantity of Land they Pleased and Made their Leases, for Ninety
Nine Years, And this Old Nimham has been Dead about Twelve
Years but his Children might have Stayed on till this Day
but his Oldest Son One Shake Came to me and Asked me
Liberty to Sell the Improvement to One Cap1 Swartwout I
Opposed it at First and a Little after he Came Down Again with
Seven or Eight more Indians for Liberty to Sell the Emprovement,
I Give him Leave to Sell ye Improvement, and he Sold it for
Twenty Pound. It Being a Precarious time, I Suffered all this,
for fear of their Setting up the Indians Against me. About a
Year Ago Capt. Nimham was Last with me, And I told him if
the Whites Owed him Any thing by Promise he might Get it if he
Could, I have Nothing to do with it, but from that time forward
he Should make no Demands there, and he Seemed to be
Satisfied and thanked me And I have not Seem him Since.
Honoured Sr I am ashamed to Trouble Your Honour with Such
a Long Scraul but hope you will Excuse me, for Necessity Obliges
me to it to prevent Trouble, Sr I have heared that he has made a
Complaint to Governor Monckton1 and he has Ordered the At-
torney General to Enspect into it; Sr if Your Honour would be
pleased to Order Some One to Enquire of the truth of what I
have Wrought as there are many Evidences to proof it
S'
I Remain with my Humble Regards to Your Honour,
Your most Humble Servant att Command
Catharyna Brett
indorsed :
Letter from Mr$ Brett
relative to Lands.
1 Governor Robert Monckton
496 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall August 28th. 1762
Sir
Your Excellencys favour of the 7th.2 is now before me wherein
I am verry glad to observe, that the steps which I lately took on
a supposition that the Inhabitants might be in danger, has been
agreable to your Excellency.
It has always been my Study and inclination to promote no
Officers but such as I judged most capable of dischargeing their
duty, and accordingly I have recommended Mr. Duncan3 to
the Governour as a Gentleman well qualified for that purpose,
and shall as opertunitys offer use my influence to make many other
necessary alterations in the Militia.
There will be great difficulty and almost an impossibility for
the Garrisons to prevent ye. Inhabitants from bringing up Rum,
as the Province will probably interpose in their behalf, no Law
being agst. the same.
I herewith enclose your Excellency My Acclt. which I should
have Sent some time ago, but that I was prevented by much busi-
ness. I shall now request your Excellency will please to order
me a Warrant for £500 Sterling, which tho something more
than the ballance, will be necessarry towards carrying on the
Service. —
As I have not an Ounce of powder for any Occasion or Service,
and there being none to be bought here I would be glad your
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Johnson Papers, 3:856-57.
3 Captain John Duncan of the 44th British regiment. See John Duncan
to Johnson, Dec. 3, 1 763.
Seven Years War 497
Excellency would order me whatever quantity You think proper.
— I have the honour to be with
the utmost respect, Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath —
FROM ALEXANDER DUNCAN
Si. . Li. O.
Ontario 29th Augst. 1762
Sir
With this I enclose You a Copy of a Paragraph of a Letter
which I have just received from Lieu1 Wallace2 of the 55th Regi-
ment, who Commands at Fort Brewerton.3 I fancy the Indians
presume a good deal on seeing the Garrisons at the several Posts
so weak; The fever & Ague has prevailed so much of late that
I have not men to supply the numbers, that Fall sick, and are
sent down here.
I imagine that Mr Wallace did not rightly understand them
when he imagined they threatned next Day, I have sent the
only Person that understands Indian here to Mr Wallace & have
desired him to send for Bunt or some of their Cheifs & make a
Complaint of the Outrage, and at the same time have desired
him to acquaint them, that they will be treated as Enemys if
they attempt any such thing in Future, it is very probable a Mes-
sage from You wou'd be of much greater Service than any thing
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Lieutenant Hugh Wallace of the 55th regiment.
3 On Oneida Lake, N. Y.
498 Sir William Johnson Papers
I can say to them; I have desired Mr Wallace to tell them to
apply to You if they have any claims for Lands &c.
The Want of Interpreters frequently occasions Misunderstand-
ings, with these People, besides their Behaviour is very different
at the Small Posts, from what it is here, and some Sheep have
lately been taken from Sutlers on the road from Fort Brewerton
to this Place.
I am
Sir
Your very humble Serv'.
Alex Duncan1
Sir Willm Johnson
INDORSED:2
Ontario 29th Aug'. 1 762 —
Letter from Major Duncan
Concerns the Inds. behaviour at
Fort Brewerton —
MINUTES OF TREATY OF LANCASTER
Contemporary Cop\f
August 1762 —
Extracts from the Minutes of the Treaty of Lancaster,
After the usual Ceremonies on those Occasions were over;
The Governour press'd the several Nations to deliver up all the
Prisoners remaining amongst them — the Indians delivered up
then about thirty of our Prisoners and promised as usual on
those Meetings to deliver up the rest —
1 Major of the 55th British regiment.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39; inclosed in Croghan
to Amherst, Oct. 5, 1762.
Seven Years' War 499
The Governour at the request of the Merchants in Philadelphia
Requested the Six Nations to give him Liberty to open a Com-
munication for Trade up the West Branch of Susquehannah
and to build Store Houses at the Heads thereof in order to extend
the Trade of the Province that way to the Lakes by Water
without going along the Kings Communication by which he
alledged the Goods would come Cheaper to the Indians —
And tho' the intent of the Government was to have a private
Communication for carrying on the Indian Trade without passing
by any of his Majesty's Posts, (which they look on as an in-
fringement on their Liberties,) the Indians took it in another
light imagining the desire was to settle their Country; and flatly
deny'd the Governours request —
The Quakers used all the influence they had to get the Indians
to desire the Troops might be removed from Fort Augusta,1 which
they did, and to which the Governour told them it was not in his
Power as that Post was built for the Kings use —
The Quakers appeared at this Treaty in a Considerable Body
and endeavoured all in their Power Privately to Stir up fresh
disputes about Lands, but the Indians would not be prevail'd
upon to enter into any; and it appeared to me that the Indians
in General was very much displeased with the Conduct of the
Province at that Treaty —
INDORSED:
Extracts
Mr. Croghan
from the Minutes I took
at the Treaty of Lancaster
Enclosed in Mr. Croghan's of the
5th. October 1762.
1 At Shamokin, later Sunbury, Pa.
500 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[September 8-10, 1762]
Proceedings with the Sachems, and great Warriors of the
united Six Nations, at Johnson Hall, beginning Septr. 8th.
1 762, when
Two Conajohare Indians arrived here with three Strings of
Wampum from the Six Nations Deputies, then at their Castle,
to acquaint Sir William Johnson of their being so far on their
way to his House, and wou'd be there this day.
Three Strings of Wampum
At four p. meredm. arrived 18 Onondagoes, 6 Senecaes,
twelve Oneidoes and Ochquagoes; who, being Seated,
the Onondago Speaker address'd Sir William as follows ;
Brother Gorah Warraghyagey,
These Sachems, and Chieftains of the Warriors, who you
now See, are sent by their Nations to speak to you; and We
are extremely glad, and thankful to the Great Spirit for allowing
us the Favour of meeting You, and finding You in Health.
Brother;
Our chief Sachem of Onondago, Chinughiata, alias the Bunt,
desired to be friendly remember'd to you, assuring you He wou'd
have come with Us, had He not sustain'd a very great Loss; to
wit, the Death of his only Sister, with which He desired you
might be acquainted
3 Strings.
After the Indians had drank a Dram, Sir Willm. told them,
He was very glad to see so many Sachems & Chieftains of the
Six Nations, and wou'd be ready at any time to hear what they
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 501
had to Say: also, that He wou'd have been greatly pleas'd to
have seen their Chief man the Bunt, but that as He was pre-
vented from coming by the death of his only Sister, (for which
He was very Sorry) He readily excus'd Him; and then con-
cluded with telling them, that to morrow he was resolv'd to
condole the Death of the deceas'd agreeable to the Custom of
the Six Nations.
Sept'. 9th.
The Sachems and Warriors came to the House, but as the Mo-
hawks of the Lower Castle, were not yet arrived, they did not
chuse to proceed upon Business. Several Nations gave in a parcel
of Axes, and other things to be repaired, wch. was order'd to be
done.
On the 10th. the Mohawk Sachems arrived, and then They,
with the Deputies of the Six Nations assembled in the Council
Room,
Present,
Sir William Johnson, Baronet, Superind1. &ca
Witham Marsh, Secretary.
Sir William after entering the Council Room, got Abraham, a
Mohawk Chief, to perform the Ceremony of Condolence on the
Death of the Bunt's Sister (as mentioned yesterday) and gave
3 Strings of wampum,
He likewise, with a black Belt of Wampum, levell'd the grave
of the deceas'd Sister of the Bunt, that it might no longer be
seen, or give her Relations any farther concern.
Gave a black Belt.
The ceremony being Ended, Sir Willm. told them He was ready
to Hear what They had to Say.
The Onondago Speaker stood up, and after the Indian manner
return'd the Complement, and perform'd the Ceremony of Con-
dolence for our several Losses, and gave
3 Strings of Wampum,
502 Sir William Johnson Papers
Then return'd Sir William many Thanks for levelling the Grave
of the Bunt's late Sister, and for removing thereby all their Sor-
row, wch. for so considerable a Loss, was very great.
The Speaker afterwards address'd the Mohawk Chiefs of
both Castles, and said
Brethren;
We give you many thanks for the Belt you sent Us
After which He address'd himself to Sir William, saying,
Brother Gorah Warraghiagey ;
We the Sachems, and Warriors now present, are sent down
by our respective Nations, in order to remove all uneasiness and
evil Thoughts from your Mind, which the late ill Behaviour of
the Oneidoes may have occasioned. — They are now present
to hear what We say to You. — On our first being inform'd
of that idle foolish Affair, our wise Men judged it necessary to
Send us down to make your mind easy, with regard thereto,
which we now do by washing your Inside clean, & removing all
bad thoughts therefrom; also open your Ears, that you may dis-
tinctly hear what we, on behalf of the six Nations are to Say
to You.
Three Strings. —
Brother;
After the Meeting held here last Spring, whereat, every thing,
relative to our mutual Interest, was happily Settled, We all ex-
pected to live in peace and quietness, and had no thought of any
thing to the contrary, untill the Oneidoes came and told Us what
had unluckily happen'd at Sadagaghquetna Creek, or Fort Schuy-
ler, occasioned by some of their People getting drunk. We
advis'd them to go to you, and make up the Affair in the best
manner they possibly cou'd, that nothing might interrupt the good
work of the late General Meeting. — They accordingly came to
you, and on their return from your House, They sent some of
their People immediately to acquaint Us with what had passed;
when, to our great Concern, we were told that you were So angry
Seven Years War 503
at their Behaviour, that You told them You wou'd not Continue
the Care of Them, Shou'd They ever be guilty of the like again.
Brother;
With this large Belt, the Six Nations beg you will not Con-
tinue in that Resolution, nor Slacken your care of Them, as that
wou'd be the means of over-Setting all that has been done, and
make Us all think our Selves Slighted ; for, from Your Behaviour,
and Care of Us, since the Great King appointed you to the
Management of our affairs, We put the greatest Confidence in
You, and always esteem'd you as our sincerest Friend; there-
fore now Intreat that you will not Slight Us, nor Frown upon
Us, for what a few drunken People have done, as we are as
Sorry for it as You, and for that reason are now come here to
prevent, all in our power, any ill Consequence arising therefrom. —
Exert Your Self, Brother, in the good Work of Peace, and We
will for the future Assist you to the utmost of our Power. We
the Onondagoes and Senecaes will take upon Us to correct our
Children the Oneidoes, and prevent their Misbehaving in time
to come; therefore most earnestly intreat you, in whose Breast
all the News and Affairs of the Six Nations, and other Indians
in this part of the World are lodged, will not fail in your regard
for, or Care of Us, but continue it, as you have hitherto done,
and We will all Strive to make your Work, and time, more
agreeable to You. We beg you will also write to the General,
and advise Him, not to be too uneasy in his Mind at every little
Foible of ours, Who are not so wise a People as you are, but
let Him exert himself in the good work of Peace, which will
be more for the publick Good.
A Belt. —
Brother;
You must be sensible of the great Regard which all Our Na-
tions have for, and the great Confidence we have always repos'd
in you, which induced Us to agree to every thing you cod. reason-
ably desire; viz1, our Joining you at Lake George, even before
We well knew the cause of Quarrel between the English and
504 Sir William Johnson Papers
French; going upon Scouting and Scalping Service: afterwards
at your Request joined in the Reduction of Niagara, altho it
was a place where we were always kindly treated, and supplied
with the Necessaries of life, chiefly gratis, by the French. —
Then We Assisted you in drawing off the French Indians from
your Enemy, when the Army was to go to Cannada, which, We
are certain, in a great Measure facilitated, if it did not compleat,
the Reduction of that Country. — After the Surrender of Mon-
treal, and with that City, all the Country of Cannada, We were
then in hopes We shou'd have lived happily, and in Friendship,
with our Brethren the English. On our Return from Cannada,
We had a Message from the Governor of Pensylvania, desiring
the Onondagoes in particular, to use their Interest with the Senecaes
and Delawares, &c, to deliver up all the Prisoners then in their
Hands. — We own We did not much regard his Message ; but
shortly after, at the Meeting here last Spring, you desired Us to
give up what Prisoners We then had, and that, without delay. —
This We have done; and all the Prisoners are sent down, &
deliver'd at Lancaster. From our Compliance with all your de-
sires, and the Part We acted at the last Meeting, We Imagine
We have done every thing can be expected of Us, and are fully
resolved to keep up to the Engagements enter'd into between
our Forefathers, and yours, and that no Trifle, or small matter,
shall oblige Us to break them : and, as We declare this to be our
determin'd Resolution, we expect that you, who are a wiser
people, and who know what Engagements have been enter'd
into between Us and You, better than we can, without Records,
will firmly adhere to them, and shew it by your Friendship, and
a more brotherly Behaviour to Us, than we at present Experience.
A Belt. —
Brother;
The evil Report which Tayadoris spread at Detroit last year,
altho it was not with the desire of the whole Confederacy, gave
so much Uneasiness to the Commanding Officer there, that He
told the Indians, that if the Troops were continued there, and
Seven Years' War 505
at the other little Posts, it wou'd certainly breed a quarrel some
time, or other; therefore He desired Tayadoris to acquaint the
Six Nations of it, and advised them to Speak to you about it,
and beg of you to use your Interest with the General to have the
several Garrisons withdrawn, and none but Traders to be left
there, which wou'd be agreeable to all Indians, which, He was
sure that you, from the Regard you had for them, wou'd En-
deavour for; desiring at the same time, not to Mention Him.
On our receiving the said Message, We consider'd it as improper
to make any such Request, knowing the war was not yet over,
and that Affairs might take some unforeseen Turn in favour of
the French who, in such a case, wou'd not be wanting to Resent,
and Revenge on Us, the Part we have acted, and Turn all the
Nations of Indians, who were, or might be, in his Interest, against
Us.
Brother;
We cannot help laying our present case before you. — The
Officers at the several Posts, when we want to Say anything
to them on Business, Trade, &ca. will not hear Us, or look upon
Us, but tell us they have nothing to say, or do with Us, nor
with the Trade; So that really we are in a very bad Situation,
and wish that there were such Officers as wou'd behave more
friendly to Us, and Who, wou'd see we were not Impos'd on
in our Trade. We also wish there may be a good man reside
there as Interpreter, which will prevent Misunderstandings arising
between Us and our Brethren.
A Belt. —
Brother;
One of our People lately, in a vision, was told by the Great
Spirit above, that when He first made the World, He gave this
large Island to the Indians for their Use; at the same time He
gave other Parts of the World beyond the great Waters to the
rest of his creating, and gave them different languages: That He
now saw the white People squabbling, and fighting for these
Lands which He gave the Indians; and that in every Assembly,
506 Sir William Johnson Papers
and Company of Governors, and Great Men, He heard nothing
scarce spoke, or talk'd of, but claiming, and wanting, large Pos-
sessions in our Country. This He said, was so contrary to his
Intention, and what He expected wou'd be the Consequence at
the time when the white People first came, like Children, among
Us, that He was quite displeas'd, and would, altho their Numbers
were ever so great, punish them if They did not desist.
A Belt with five Squares. —
Brother;
This Belt, or Covenant Chain, was given to Us Several years
ago by Nine Governments hereon represented, and His Majesty
King George at the Top, Assuring Us then that they were, and
wou'd remain our Friends; insomuch, that if any Nation, either
French, or Indians, or others, shou'd quarrel with Us, they wou'd
rise, and Assist Us; at the same time assuring Us, that the Great
King wou'd protect Us in the possession of our Lands. — They
then also shew'd a Space in said Belt, which They desired We
wou'd Fill with as many Nations of Indians, as we cou'd bring
into their, and our Alliance. This Belt We only shew you, to
let you know that, we constantly look at it, and repeat the purport
of it to our old and young, so as never to forget the Promises
you then made, as We are determin'd inviolably to abide by those
made on our Side.
The Covenant large Belt. —
Brother;
This Bunch of Wampum which I now lay before You, is
from three Nations living on the North Side of Lake Ontario,
namely, the Missisagues, Onagiagaghroonaes, & ChinestenooJ?-
rooneys, lately sent to Onondago, from their Meeting at Cadar-
achque, thereby returning the Onondagoes many Thanks for the
friendly Intercourse they kept up with them for time past, as well
as for the good News, and Intelligence sent them from time to
time, assuring them that They, on their Parts, will punctually
do the same.
Seven Years War 507
Brother;
This other Bunch is likewise from them, expressing their pleas-
ure on hearing the War is ended in these Parts, in which They
were but little concerned; also assuring them of their good Dis-
positions towards the Six Nations, which, at a Meeting they
propos'd to be at Onondago the next Month, They hoped to
Convince them of: then concluded with assuring them that there
was a good Harmony between all their Nations in this part of
the Country, and should any become otherwise inclined, They
wou'd immediately acquaint the Six Nations therewith, and act
in concert against them. — You See, Brother, we are, agreeable
to your repeated desire, endeavoring to Strengthen the Alliance
between You, and Us; but We are apprehensive, our good Designs
may be obstructed by the unfriendly, and harsh Behaviour of
the Officers at the Posts, who, when we come on Business, refuse
hearing Us; if so, when Strangers come, it must alter, or overturn
their good Intentions. — We beg it may be otherwise. —
Laid down 2 Bunches of Wampum
Brother;
We are asham'd to make so many Complaints, but our un-
expected and miserable Situation, obliges Us to lay our Griev-
ances before you, as it concerns our very Existence. Some of our
People were lately repairing a Fishing Wear, (where we have
fished time out of mind for our Support) near where you have
now a Fort at the lower End of the Oneidoe Lake, when an
Officer came up and forbid them, telling them, He wou'd order
his Men to break down what They had made. — We did not
think it hard while our Brothers, and We, shared alike; which
was the Case when the former Officer commanded there: but
the present Officer acts an unbrotherly part, which We hope will
be taken Notice of, and prevented for the time to come. We are
told by a Man, (who speaks our Language) at the East End
of Oneida Lake, that there were a number of Men, going the
next Day, to build three Houses on the north side of the said
Lake, about mid-way, by a Creek, which is one of our best Fish-
508 Sir William Johnson Papers
ing Places : We desire to know of You, Brother, by whose order
these Houses are to be built : what can be intended by it, we can-
not See, unless to Starve Us, by taking all our Hunting Places
from Us.
A Belt. —
Brother;
We have now open'd our Minds to you, and laid before you
what We were charged with from our Nations, and We hope
you will take the whole into Consideration, and afford Us such
Redress as We think we have a right to Expect from Brethren.
Here the Speaker ended.
Then Sir William told them He had closely attended to what
They had said; wou'd consider seriously of it, and when ready
to answer, wou'd acquaint them of the time. Then the Meeting
ended for this Day.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Neiv York, 12th. Septem: 1762.
Sir:
I have received the favor of your Letter of the 28th. August,2
Enclosing Your Accompt with the Crown, for the Ballance of
which I herewith transmit You a Warrant. Hereafter you may
have what may be Necessary for Carrying on the Service, in
Your Department. But I thought it best to grant the Warrant
for the Exact Ballance, which closes the Accompts You Sent me.
If the Indians are Industrious, And barter their Skins for
powder, &ca. I don't think they can have much occasion or Indeed
that they can Expect to be Supplyed by us; but Nevertheless
Should you at Any time think it requisite to allow them Some,
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 496.
Seven Years' War 509
and that you let me Know the quantity of Ammunition Absolutely
Necessary, I Shall give Directions for Your being Supplied
therewith.
I am
Sir
&c
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
mwm
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[Johnson Hall September 13-14, 1762]
At a Meeting with the Six Nations, on Monday the 13th day
of Septemr. 1 762, at Johnson Hall,
Present,
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
Lieu1. Guy Johnson
The Deputies of sev1. Nations.
Witham Marsh, SecT.
Wm. Printup, Interpreter
Sir William made the following Answer to what the Onondago
Speaker said two days ago.
Brethren of the Six Nations;
I am glad to find you so desirous to remove all evil Thoughts
which were occasioned by the late Behaviour of the Oneidoes;
and, I cannot but approve of your Sachems conduct in sending
you hither, for that purpose.
Gave three Strings.
Brethren ;
You were certainly in the right to advise the Oneidoes to come
down immediately, to Apologize for their Behaviour; at which
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
510 Sir William Johnson Papers
time, I own I told them, that I shou'd not continue the Manage-
ment of their Affairs, if they ever repeated their Crime, which I
must certainly do, if I hear more Complaints against them, as I
cannot answer it to the Great King, to undertake the conducting
of a People's affairs, who will not be governed by my advice:
but I am in hopes, you will not reduce me to the Necessity of
Slighting you, or neglecting your Affairs: And as I am glad to
find your promise to correct your Children the Oneidoes, and
prevent such Behaviour for the future, you may always expect
me to be your Friend, whilst you continue to put your present
Resolutions in Execution, and observe all your Engagements
with the English. — Such Conduct will be the best means of
Securing the General's Esteem, and I shall be always your ad-
vocate with him, whilst you in any wise deserve it.
A Belt. —
Brethren ;
I am perfectly well acquainted with your Behaviour during
the whole course of the War, and very Sensible you might have
done more, if you had Engaged in it with Spirit: however, I
cannot but approve of the good Conduct of all such faithful
Inds. as afforded their Assistance to the English, which I hope
you will always be ready to do, if there is a necessity for it.
I am glad to hear of your sending down the English prisoners,
and I expect you will not let one remain in your Nations, and
that you will never give the least Encouragement to Deserters,
(but deliver all such up at some of His Majesty's Garrisons)
who may endeavour to Screen themselves amongst You. Such
people, being void of principle, will always do harm amongst
you, and Create Disturbances. By adhering to this my advice,
and duly observing all your Treaties with Us, you may be assured
of our giving due Attention to all Engagements on our Parts, and
that the English will never break their Compacts with any people
who do not compel them to it.
A Belt. —
Seven Years' War 5 1 1
Brethren ;
What you tell me of the Commanding Officer at the Detroit,
greatly Surprizes me, and I cou'd wish you had not laid such a
thing before me, untill you were well assured of the Authenticity
of your Intelligence, as I cannot think any Officer wou'd have
deliver'd such Sentiments : the several Posts are absolutely neces-
sary, and of Use to both English and Indians. I shou'd be very
sorry any differences might arise, or that you had any reason to
think your Selves Slighted by the Officers, who, I hope will al-
ways treat such Indians as behave well, in a friendly manner,
and prevent any Impositions in Trade : and as an Interpreter may
be of some Use at Oswego, I shall take your request into Con-
sideration.
A Belt. —
Brethren;
Your romantic Notions, Custom of Dreaming, and Seeing
visions, however usual amongst you, cannot but appear in a very
ridiculous Light to White People, who will, Consider it, only
as a Scheme set on foot by some designing Persons to answer
their Purposes; and I hope you cannot but be convinced that
the Divine Being is satisfied with the Justice of our Cause, from
the great Successes with which He has crowned the British Arms.
— I hope therefore, you will not Suspect Us of defrauding you
of your Lands, after what I formerly acquainted you concerning
His Majesty's Intentions to protect you in all your just Rights,
and observe all his Treaties with You.
A Belt. —
Brethren;
The Belt which you produced from the several Governments,
I have formerly seen. — I am glad to find you preserve it in
remembrance, and repeat the Purport thereof to your people,
So that your Posterity may be acquainted with the Engagements
You, and We have enter'd into. — Continue to act in this wise
manner, and you may always rely on our Friendship, and Observ-
ance thereof. — a r> u
A. oelt. —
512 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren;
I am very glad you continue in Strict Unity with the Misse-
sagues, and other Nations you mention, and I hope that the
Strictest Harmony may Subsist between you, them, & Us, to
the latest Ages.
Brethren;
I am pleas'd to hear that those Nations you mention Express
their satisfaction at the War being ended in these parts, and that
they seem so favourably disposed both towards you, and amongst
one another: and I hope nothing may happen to obstruct the
Harmony which shou'd Subsist between Us.
A Bunch of Wampum.
Brethren;
You may be always assured of my readiness to hear any of
your real Grievances, and procure you Satisfaction, but I can
hardly be induced to believe that the Officers will ill treat you
in any manner, as the General has given Them Instructions to
the contrary; & therefore, I am to think, (as I have often told
you, that it must be occasioned thro some of your own Imprudences,
of which I have lately had repeated accounts; having a Letter
from the Officer you Mention, complaining of your plundering
his Garden; and likewise a complaint from Mr. Herkemer, that
you take Horses from the German Flatts, when you are on your
way Home. — Such Behaviour, you may be assured, we can
no longer Suffer, and I expect you will prevent Me from having
occasion to hear such repeated complaints, by your good Be-
haviour for the future, which will be the surest means of obtaining
good Treatment at the Garrisons, and effectually Stop the ill
usage you complain of.
I have heard nothing of any Houses being to be Built on the
North Side of the Oneida Lake: if any such are intended, they
must be designed for Places of Rest, and Shelter, for the Traders,
& others, Who pass that way, by the General's order, and I hope
it will not in any wise affect your Fishing. — I heartily wish,
Seven Years' War 513
and expect, that there may be no future occasion for complaining
on either Side; to obtain which End, nothing shall be wanting
on my part, wch. may conduce towards our mutual Happiness,
and preserving of Peace between the English, and You.
A Belt. —
Sir William having finish'd his answer, the Onondago Speaker
took each Belt, and after repeating what was Said by Sir William,
return'd thanks for it, and promised faithfully to use all his en-
deavors to have what He recommended, punctually observed:
then added that, He hop'd our People wou'd behave more friendly
to the Inds. for the time to come.
Post Meredm.
The Onondago Speaker, Kanodocfy, and two Seneca Chiefs,
with Cannadagaya, waited on Sir William; when the former
address'd Him as follows.
Brother Warraghyagey ;
I am now to Speak to you in the Name of the Bunt, our Chief
Sachem, who desires I may represent to you, how faithfully He
has been attached to your Interest during the whole Course of
the War, together with his People: that He is now left alone
to Transact the Affairs of our Nation without any Assistance;
and being very old, is unable to Discharge them all himself,
therefore He requests you wou'd appoint some Persons to Assist
him therein, and ease Him from so much Business. — For his
part, He wou'd be desirous to chuse two, Kanodock and my Self,
wch. if you approve of, He requests you will Furnish Us with
a paper intimating that We are appointed Chiefs for the Trans-
acting of the Affairs of our Nation, so that We may be known
at the several Posts. — This is his earnest Desire, and He hopes
you will take it into Consideration; and, with regard to the like
appointment for the Seneca Nation, He submits the same in like
manner to You. — He has likewise desired I wou'd represent
to You, That as We have been always accustomed to have a
514 Sir William Johnson Papers
Smith in our Nation, and are now in great want of one, You wou'd
please to think of it, and order one up, with Bellows, and some
Goods to Trade amongst Us. — I am also to acquaint You,
that the Senecaes are very desirous you wou'd send another Trader
into their Country : the Person who is there at present, not being
able to Supply them all.
To wch. Sir William made the following answer.
Brethren;
I am very sensible of the good Behaviour of the Bunt, and his
People, particularly during the latter part of the War, and am
very sorry that He is not able to go through the Business of his
Nation, for which reason I shall readily agree to his Request of
two Assistants, and deliver you a paper accordingly: And I
desire He may Exert himself in his Office, & Continue the care
of his People as formerly. — His Demand of a Smith, I shall
allow of, but I think it highly improper that a Trader shou'd
reside at your Castle, where He cou'd not be under the inspection
of any of the Garrisons.
A String. —
Brother;
The Smith which I sent at the particular intreaty of the Sen-
ecaes, carried with him some Goods, which I imagin'd sufficient
for that Castle ; and as I cannot approve of a Trade at any of the
Villages, where it is not under the Inspection of an Officer, who is
to redress any just Grievances You may complain of, and See
fair dealing in Trade agreeable to the Regulations left at all the
considerable Posts, I cannot at present agree to your Desire, but
may perhaps hereafter.
Return'd their String. —
Then Sayenguaraghto of the Senecaes, and his Party begg'd
Sir William wou'd supply them with some Powder for their
Hunting, having nothing to Buy it with, as they were but a few
days returned from War against the Southern Indians.
Seven Years War 515
Sir William having no Powder, gave them money to Buy
some, for which They were very thankful.
Afterwards the Ochquaghoes came to Speak to Sir Wm. when
one of them address'd Him as follows.
Brother Warraghyagey ;
We are all extremely glad to hear what you have Said, and
that all matters are so far settled, that you will not leave us as
you threaten'd to do, on account of the late imprudent Behaviour
of some Indians, to whom, I hope, what you have said, will be a
sufficient Lesson, and occasion them to Behave better hereafter.
As this is the principal Place for Transacting of Business, 'tis
Here We shall always repair to whenever occasion requires;
and all other affairs being no[w] Finish'd, We request your
Attention to something which We have to Say.
Brother;
Some time ago, Mr. Eli Forbes,1 the Minister, came to our
Village, and informed our People that, He was sent by the Great
Men in New England to Instruct them in the Christian Religion,
and that when He was going back, He requested He might take
three young Indians with him to be Instructed, that They might
become Ministers of the Gospel: He added that, We might be
assured, He had no other Motive than that of Religion to induce
Him to come amongst them, as He was not come either to Trade,
or to Deprive them of their Lands.
As our People were invited to a Meeting in Pennsylvania,
in which Number were the Parents of the three Children who
were intended to go with Mr. Forbes, they naturally took their
Children with them, which prevented their going with the Min-
ister. Being absent from the village at his arrival, on my return
I waited on Him, and after thanking Him for coming amongst
Us, Expressed my Satisfaction at the Care which the great Men
took of Us, in sending Us a Clergyman, observing that We had
1 Eli Forbes acted as Indian Commissioner in presenting a petition
of the Indians at Oquaga, Aug. 30, 1 762 ; see Johnson Papers, 3:370-72.
516 Sir William Johnson Papers
had several, Who did not reside with Us any considerable time,
by reason, as I thought, that They had no Salary, and that We
were not in a Condition to afford Them one. Upon which, Mr.
Forbes, informed me that, We need give our Selves no Concern
on that Head, as He had a Salary from Home. — He con-
tinued with Us for some time afterwards, and on our going out a
Hunting, We waited upon him to give Him Notice thereof, and
Inform Him of the time we shou'd return back; whereupon He
desired we wou'd Delay it a while, having somewhat particular
to Say to Us, and advised Us to Assemble together with the Tus-
caroras; and our telling Him that most of our Chiefs were abroad,
He desired We shou'd assemble those who were then at Home,
which We accordingly did. —
At this Meeting He told Us that, He observed We had a great
Way to go to Hunt, which He beleiv'd we did merely thro
Necessity, which He wod. prevent by Cloathing the Poor, rather
than They shou'd neglect their Studies, which could not be
prosecuted whilst We continued our Hunting, neither cou'd we be
prosperous untill We erected a House for a School, and for a
Minister, and made our Selves Masters of the Art of cultivating
our Lands, which He wou'd learn Us; adding, that He observed
many of our People neglected every thing to obtain Liquor, which
He wou'd prevent, and put a Stop to any from being brought
to Us, and to Hinder all the poor Indians from bringing Rum
amongst Us for to purchase Cloathing, He would Cloath the
poorer Sort himself. — He likewise encouraged Us to have
Sachems, and three white men, to Act as a Council for the Man-
agement of our Affairs, and advised Us to Erect a Saw Mill,
Grist Mill, and House for the Workmen, by which, we shou'd
always be supplied with Flour, and Materials for Building: and
that if We approved of a Trader amongst Us, such a person
shou'd be procured. — That He was sensible it was contrary to
His Majesty's Intentions, and that Sir Wm. Johnson wod. not
approve of their taking Indian Lands, but that We might allot
those Necessary Persons a Tract sufficient for their Maintenance,
but to remain our Property. He likewise informed Us that, He
Seven Years' War 517
had seen Sir Wm. Johnson at Albany, who greatly approved of
his Journey to Us, and that if We approved of what He had
propos'd, We shou'd come to you, and wod. regulate the whole,
so that no more white Men shod. Settle amongst Us than those
appointed, and that you wou'd write to England about it. — He
also observed to Us, it wou'd be necessary to mention the place
for a large School-House, and asked whether it shou'd be at
Aquhago, Oneida, or Wy-oming: upon which, We told Him,
We cou'd by no means think of it's being any where but at our
own Village, and his mentioning other places, seem'd very odd
to Us. To which He answer'd that his proposing other places
was owing to his not being sufficiently acquainted with Them.
We then ask'd Him what Provision was to be made for the White
Peoples Children, and the Increase of their Families, who cou'd
not always be contained within one House? To which He re-
ply'd, that They must be sent Home to the Country of their
Parents. — We did not chuse to Give Him any direct answer
untill we spoke thereon to the Oneidoes; and on our laying it
before Conoghquieson, who came shortly afterwards to our
Village. — He greatly approved of it, and wish'd that another
School-House was to be Erected at Oneida, each of which might
Assist the other, which greatly pleas'd the Minister, who there-
upon desired Conoghquieson wou'd, on his arrival at Oneida,
Send Mr. Occam1 the Minister to your House, where Mr. Forbes
wou'd meet Him, and Settle all matters. Conoghquieson accord-
ingly Set out, but by the way heard of the Affair at Fort Schuyler,
which prevented him from executing his Errand, however, I was
determin'd to Continue my Journey with the Minister, to hear
what the Six Nations shou'd say on that Affair, and am extremely
well pleas'd to find all matters so well Finish'd.
To the above Speech, Sir William made the following answer.
Brethren of Onaghquago;
As I deliver'd my Sentiments to you on the Subject you now
Speak of, last June, I can have little to Say at present thereon,
1 Samson Occum, a Mohegan Indian, missionary to the Indians.
5 1 8 Sir William Johnson Papers
more than that I cannot but greatly approve of your having a
Minister to celebrate Divine Worship, and to Instruct your Chil-
dren in the Christian Religion. For the Encouragement of such
Minister, a small piece of Land will be sufficient, without making
any Settlement, or Erecting Mills : whatever therefore you Chuse
to assign for that Purpose, I shall acquaint the Minister with
immediately, that no time may be lost in making an Establish-
ment so essential to your Welfare in this World, and to your
Happiness hereafter.
Then the Oghquaghos agreed to, & Signed the following Paper.
We the Sachems of Ochquagho, assembled at the House of Sir
Will"1. Johnson, Baronet, Do unanimously agree to give permis-
sion to a Minister of the Gospel, with such an Assistant as He may
require, to Settle at the Place of our present Residence; and
for his Encouragement so to do, We give him Liberty to Erect
a proper School-House to serve as a Church for the Worship of
God, and occasionally for the Instruction of our Children, as such
Minister shall Judge most fitting; together with such a piece of
Land as may be found necessary for the Maintenance of Himself,
an Assistant, and one Servant, as We do not think proper to
Suffer any greater Number to Settle there, or to Erect any Mills,
or other Buildings, than are obviously Necessary for such Minister.
Given under our Hands at Johnson Hall, the 14th. day of
September, 1 762. _ T
Adam. Peter. Jacob.
EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Contemporary Copy1
Septemr. / 5th. 1762, at Johnson Hall
This Day Sir William deliver'd Warrants to Teyawarunte, and
Konodock, Sachems of Onondago, appointing them principal
Sachems for Transacting Affairs, as Colleagues to the Bunt, and
at his Request.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 519
On taking Leave, Teyawarunte (the Onondago Speaker) told
Sir William that He was very happy in finding all matters set-
tled so amicably, and made no doubt what was said, wou'd have
a proper Impression on all present, and be productive of Peace
& Friendship to the latest Ages: adding, that They had sent for
the Horses belonging to the Germans, wch. should be deliver'd
to them immediately, and an intire Stop put to all future Irreg-
ularities. That They wou'd for the time to come, Study nothing
but Peace, and the Improvement of their Alliances, with the
Northern and Western Indians.
Then Sir William gave the Senecaes Six pounds to Buy some
Ammunition, and three Dollars to Purchase Provisions on their
Journey with some Paint for the young Men, and two black
Belts of Wampum to Sayenguaraghto and Kanias, two Chief
Warriors, to make what use They thought proper of them; for
which They were very thankful, and Said They wou'd acquaint
all their young Men with it, and perhaps next Spring wou'd
come to see Sir William, and let Him know their Intentions
thereupon. He gave the Onondagoes, Oneidoes, Ochquhagos,
and Tuscaroras also some Money to defray their Expences on
the Road : and after desiring them to Behave well, as They passed
through the Inhabitants, order'd them a Dram, with a little Provi-
sion ; and then parted. —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, J 9th. Septem. 1762
Sir
I had last Night the favor of receiving Your Letter of the 5th.
Instant;2 And altho I Shall always be glad to do anything that
may be agreable to You, and that I have no Objection to Your
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3:876-77.
520 Sir William Johnson Papers
having a Deputy, if You think one absolutely Necessary, I can
by no Means Approve of Lieut. Johnson's1 Undertaking that
Employment while he Continues An Officer: Indeed I am Sorry
he Should have been so long Absent from his Company, par-
ticularly Since it went on Service, and I am persuaded You will
Joyn with me in thinking that An Officer cannot be better, or so
well Employed as in the Discharge of that Duty for which he
receives his Commission. If it were time of peace I Should not
have any objection to his being with You, as You think him so
Usefull ; But at present when the Company is Employed, the want
of an Officer is a great Loss to the Service, And renders the Duty
Extreamly hard to the rest of the Officers.
I approve Entirely of what You Mention In regard to allow-
ing Mr. Mc.Gee2 part of Mr. Montours3 pay, and of Making a
Saving of £ 72. 1 0-Sterling pr. Annum, In the Whole, And you
will please to give Directions accordingly to Your Deputy Mr.
Croghan.
You will no doubt have heard of the Murder of Mr. Clapham,4
a Trader coming from the Detroit to Presqu'Isle; Capt: Camp-
bell0 writes me that it is Supposed to have been committed by
two Panis Slaves belonging to the Deceased, who are now in
Custody at the Detroit; Assisted by Some Indians who Joyned
them on the Route. I Send a Warrant to Major Gladwin,6 for
calling a General Court Martial that the Murderers may be Im-
mediately brought to Condign Punishment for this Barbarous
Act ; And have given him full power for putting the Sentence into
1 Lieutenant Guy Johnson.
2 Alexander McKee.
3 Henry (Andrew) Montour.
4 See Johnson to Amherst, Oct. 1 , 1 762 ; Amherst to Johnson, Oct. 1 0,
1762; Johnson Papers, 3:886-87, 895-96.
5 Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment.
6 Major Henry Gladwin, who in August, 1 762, had returned from
England to Detroit and again became commandant.
Seven Years1 War 521
Execution in the most Publick Manner, as a Terror to others
from being Guilty of Such Crimes for the future.
I am with great regard
Sir
&ca.
Sir Willm. Johnson./.
JOURNAL AND REPORT OF THOMAS HUTCHINS1
Contemporary Copy2
[April 4 - Sept. 24, 1762.]
The 4th. of April 1 762. Set out from Fort Pitt in Order to Visit
the different Posts to the Westward agreeable to Instructions
received from George Croghan Esq1-. His Majesty's Deputy
Agent for Indian Affairs.
The same day arriv'd at Beaver Creek where I was detain'd
two days on Account of Wet Weather; while I was here an
Indian Woman Sister to White Eyes a Delaware Chief with
some other Indians of the same Nation Complain'd to me that
a french Man who lived at Fort Pitt had been at their Houses a
1 Thomas Hutchins (1730-1789) was known as an engineer and
geographer. He had served as an officer in the French and Indian War,
and had laid out plans for forts at Fort Pitt and Pensacola, Florida.
When Croghan was asked by Sir William, Jan. 8, 1 762 (Johnson Papers,
3:605), to make a journey to the post of the Miamis, or to send someone
to report thereon, he chose Hutchins, who had made an earlier expedition
to Western Pennsylvania, also reported in a Journal, in 1 760. On his
1 762 expedition, he also made a map, completed in 1 763, which was to
have been sent to Sir William also, but there is no record of its being
received. See W. L. Jenks, "The Hutchins' Map of Michigan," in
Michigan History Magazine (July 1926), 10:358-373, where the
Journal is also printed. Hutchins supported the American Revolution,
and in 1781, Congress made him "geographer to the United States."
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, Nov. 12, 1 762, post p. 567, and in Croghan to Amherst Oct. 5,
1 762, post p. 543. See Croghan to Amherst, May 10, 1 762, ante p. 452.
522 Sir William Johnson Papers
few days before and had Stole a Silk Shirt with Sundry other
things to the amount of Six Pounds; they requested of me to
Write to Mr. Croghan to try to bring the Offender to Justice
which I accordingly did —
The 7th Set out for Mohickon John's where I arriv'd the 1 9th.
at 12 o'Clock after a very disagreeable March Occasioned by
bad Weather; I made him and his Tribe acquainted by a Belt
of Wampum that the Commander in Chief Insisted on his taking
to Fort Pitt Edward Long and John Hague both deserters from
the Kings Troops ; And likewise one Frederick Ice who was taken
Prisoner during the War and now is very troublesome to the
Traders Passing and Repassing —
Mohickon John desired me at my Return to Acquaint Mr.
Croghan that one of the Soldiers had Secretly gone from his
House some time ago, and had been in quest of him but could
not find him, that he intended setting out in a few days for the
Lower Shawneese Town where he Suspected he was gone to,
near which place the Cherokees had a few days before kill'd
and Scalp'd two Shawneese and made a Delaware Boy Prisoner;
that he had Some Business to Transact with the Shawneese
in behalf of his Tribe, and as soon as it was over he wou'd do all
in his Power to get the Deserter and if he should find him he wou'd
immediately take him with the other to Fort Pitt and if he should
be obliged to Return without him he would loose no time in
taking the one that remain'd at his House to Mr. Croghan —
He further says that as Frederick Ice had Sundry times Stole
Horses and Bells from travellers passing by his House for which
himself and his People were blamed, One of his Young Men
Tomhawk'd him —
I travelled a few Miles further and Encamped
The 21st. at night arrived at Sandusky where I was detained
for want of a Batteau untill the 30th. of April, then Set out for
D'Troit and arrived there the 8th. of May after a very disagreeable
Passage Occasioned by Wet Weather and Contrary winds —
I was detained at D'Troit until the 15th. of May partly on
Account of Bad Weather, and partly on account of a Batteau
v
' »■ y
THOMAS HUTCHINS' MAP OF 1762
Illustrates his Journal of April 4-September 24, 1762.
Courtesy of Henry E. Huntington Library.
Seven Years' War 523
not being ready for me (I being obliged to leave my other Boat
here) which being now prepared Set out for Michilimackinac
where I arrived the second of June; detained here four days by
Contrary winds and a Ruff Sea —
The day I arrived, the Cheapwas killed a Man of the Mey-
nomeney Nation upon the Parade in the Fort in revenge for two
Men that was killed by his Nation some Considerable time ago
of the Cheapwas; Soon after this happen'd a Chief with the
Murderers and some more of their Tribe came to the Commanding
Officer and assured him they were Extreamly sorry that they had
kill'd the Indian within the Fort, and hoped he would impute it
to the Passion they were in and not to any insult intended to be
offered to the English and to Confirm what was said they made
the Commanding Officer a Present of an Indian Slave & desired
him to rest Satisfy'd —
June the 4th. Eighty of the Ottawas and Sixty of the Cheapway
Nations assembled, and agreeable to my Instructions I made
them acquainted by a Belt of Wampum with the Business I came
on — They then said they would meet to Morrow and inform me
with what they had to say —
The 5th. The above Indians met and the Chief of the Ottawas
spoke as follows
Brother,
We are much obliged to Sir William Johnson for taking so
much notice of us as to send you to Visit our Country
We do assure you that we have no Evil in our Hearts against
the English but are entirely Reconciled to them and will do all
in our power to advise our Young People to Behave well : every
thing you told us at the Treaty of Peace at D'Troit we have
Experienced to be true, and we are of the same mind now that
we were of then.
Notwithstanding the satisfaction the Ottawas Express'd in
the above Speech I was informed by my Interpreter that they
expected a present from me and seemed much dissatisfy'd that
524 Sir William Johnson Papers
they were disappointed, tho' they said nothing to me Concerning
it —
Hie Cheapwas desired I would hear them tomorrow
The 6th. they assembled and their Cheif spoke as follows
Brother,
We are very well satisfy'd to see you here and are Convinced
you are come to see us on a good design; and if you should hear
any bad reports Concerning us, we desire you will not Credit
them. We have delivered up all the Prisoners that we had of
the English, and we desire you will acquaint Sir William Johnson
that we are a Poor People and we hope he will Pity us, And to
assure you all we have said is true we give you this Bunch of
Wampum t-~ ~. .
1 hey gave a ounch.
I was inform'd by my Interpreter that the Cheapwas expected
a present from me and were much dissatisfy'd at their being
disappointed. Notwithstanding they said nothing to me Concerning
it
The 7th. set out for the Bay where I arriv'd after a very
disagreable passage of 1 7 days — I could not have a meeting with
the Indians here until the 25th. as their Chiefs were mostly gone
to an Indian Village to hold a Council on Account of the Man of
their Nation that was kill'd at Michilimackinac —
The 25th. all the Indians of the Sax Nation that were at the
Fort Assembled and after I made them acquainted with my
Instructions Confirming what I had said with a belt of Wampum,
One of their Chiefs spoke as follows —
Brother,
I in behalf of my Nation Return you my Sincere thanks for
the Accounts you have brought us, We are also greatly obliged to
Sir William Johnson for taking so much care as to send you to
let us know what the General had done respecting us; We are
Extreamly well pleased with every thing you have said ; We are
thoroughly convinced that the Prohibition of Spirituous Liquors
Seven Years' War 525
was done for our Good, from the Bad effects attending the use of
it long ago — We desire you will request Sir William Johnson
to send a Smith to this Fort to mend our Guns and Tomahawks
&c. as we are greatly Straitned many timed to support our familys
Occasioned by our Guns being out of Repair which obliges us
to come here with out Women and Children to beg some
provisions from our Brother You will also let him know we are a
Poor People and it's very likely we Shall be obliged to take part
in the Quarrel that subsists between the Meynomeneys here,
and the Cheapwas at Michilimackinac, this will Prevent our
hunting for furrs to purchase Cloaths for our Women and
Children; therefore we hope Sir William Johnson will Consider
us and send us some Necessaries to keep our Women & Children
from the Cold. Your coming here plainly Convinces us the Com-
manding Officer here was sincere in every thing he told us ; and you
may Assure yourself that we will do every thing in our power
to serve the English.
The same day I made the Reynard Nation acquainted with my
Instructions and gave them a Belt of Wampum —
Their answer was the same with the Sax Nation —
The 26th. I delivered the same Message to the Meynomeneys
that I had done to the Sax and Reynard Nations, and gave
them a Belt of Wampum —
Their answer was the same with the other two Nations, only
added, That it was very Probable they would strike the Cheapwas
in revenge for the Man of their Nation that was lately kill'd at
Michilimackinac, and assured me that if any of the English
shou'd have Occasion to come amongst them they should pass
and repass unmolested —
I was informed by my Interpreter that the Sax, Reynard, &
Meynomeney Nations all expected a Present from me and were
a good deal displeased at their being disappointed —
After my business was over with the Meynomeneys I desired
they would send a carefull Indian with me as a Guide to St.
Josephs; their Chief assured me that at that time they could not
spare any, as they expected in a few days to send a Party to
526 Sir William Johnson Papers
War against the Cheapwas; and added as their Indians along
the way I had to go was inform'd that the English had Countin-
anced the killing of one of their People in the Fort at Michili-
mackinack that it was more than Probable they would do me
an Injury and advised me to Reurn to Michilimackinack and go
from there to S*. Josephs which I did —
The 28th. of June set out from the Bay and Return'd to
Michilimackinac the 7th. of July, where I was detain'd for
want of a Passage until the 11*. I then Set out and arrived at
S*. Josephs the 6th. of August —
The 7th. Assembled the Powtauwautimies & made them ac-
quainted with my Instructions and gave them a Belt of
Wampum —
The 8th. they Expressed great uneasiness that Rum was not
allowed them as usual, and desired that as their whole Nation was
afflicted with Sickness which rendered them incapable of hunting
that Sir William Johnson would send them some few Presents
to keep their Women and Children from the Cold: And further
said they were greatly surprised that I had not a present for
them —
They gave a String of Wampum
The 9th. Set out for the Fort of the Miniamies where I
arrived the 12th.
The 1 3th. had a meeting with the Minianies or Twightwey
Indians and acquainted them with my Instructions
Gave them a Belt of Wampum
I then told them I had some business at the Ouiatonon & on
my Return would hear what they had to say —
The 14th. Set out for the Ouiatonon and arrived there the
1 8*. —
The 19th. had a meeting with the following Indians Viz1.
Ouiatonons, Kickaupoose, Musquetons, and Pyankishaws who
I made acquainted with my Instructions and gave each Nation a
Belt of Wampum —
Seven Years' War 527
They then desir'd I would hear them tomorrow —
The 20th. the above Indians met, and the Ouiatonon Chief
spoke in behalf of his and the Kickaupoose Nation as follows,
Brother,
We are very thankfull to Sir William Johnson for sending you
to enquire into the State of the Indians We assure you we are
rendered very miserable at Present on Account of a Severe
Sickness that has Seized almost all our People many of which
have died lately and many more are likely to Die; however this
we don't Grumble at, it was God that put us on the Earth and
when he pleases to take us away we must be satisfy'd; but what
we think hardest of, is that the English have never so much as given
us the least Present, or even allowed a Smith to be at this post
to mend our Guns, We know very well that other Indian Nations
have had Presents given them at two or three different times and
a Smith allowed to mend their Guns; what those Indians have done
to get themselves in so great favour with the English we have
never heard, but this we are sure of that we are ready on all
Occasions to serve our Brethren the English, and we will advise
our Young people to behave well —
If we were to go to the French at the Ilonois they would give
us some Ammunition at least, but our Brother here has desired us
to have as little dealings with them as Possible, You see we mind
what he says as none of our People has offered to go near the
French since the English came here —
We desire you will acquaint Sir William Johnson with all
we have said to you, and we hope he will allow a Smith at this
Post and also send some Presents for our Women and Children
As for English Prisoners we have not any remaining amongst
our Nations, and to assure you all I have said is true I give you
this Wampum & Council pipe
They gave Wampum and a Council Pipe
The Chief of the Musquitons spoke in behalf of his and the
Pyankishaw Nations in the same manner that the Ouiatonons
528 Sir William Johnson Papers
& Kickaupoose had done Confirming what they said by giving
some Wampum and a Council Pipe —
The 21st. detained here on account of my Horse being Stole
The 22d. Set out for Mineamis and arrived there the 26th.
The 27th. The Mineamie Indians assembled and desired that
I wou'd request of Mr. Croghan to send them a Smith to mend
their Guns and Tomahawks and also to allow them some
Presents as their People were mostly sick and could not hunt
to support their families —
They gave a String of Wampum
The Officer at this post assured me that it was almost impos-
sible to keep friendship with the Indians here without allowing
them some Presents, and that they were Extreamly uneasy
that a smith was not allowed them —
The 28th. & 29th. detained here on Account of Wet Weather —
The 30th. of August Set out for the Lower Shawneese Town
and arrived there the 8th. of September —
I could not have a meeting with those Indians untill the 12th.,
as their People were mostly Sick, & some Dying every day, I
then made them acquainted with my Instructions and
Gave them a Belt of Wampum
They gave for answer that as their Chiefs were gone to a
Council with the English in Pensylvania they could not Transact
any business in their absence, that they Expected them to arrive
in a few days and as soon as they came an Answer to my Message
should be imediately sent Mr. Croghan.
They gave a String of Wampum —
The 1 3th. September Set out for Fort Pitt and arrived there
the 24th. —
Sir,
The above is a Relation of what has Pass'd between the Indians
Inhabiting near the distant Posts, and me, and notwithstanding
Seven Years' War 529
the manner they have express'd themselves in their Publick
Speeches I always found in Private Conversation that they
were not so well satisfy'd as I could have wish'd as they were
disappointed in their Expectations of my not having Presents
for them and as the french had always Accustomed themselves
both in time of Peace, and during the late War to make these
People great Presents three or four times a Year, and always
allowed them a sufficient Quantity of Ammunition at the Posts,
they think it very Strange that this Custom should be so imediately
broke off by the English, and the Traders not allowed even to
take so much Ammunition with them as to enable those Indians
to kill game sufficient for the Support of their families. — And
notwithstanding the Officers of the Different Posts has been
obliged to give those Indians some Presents as it would be impos-
sible to keep friendship with them without; they nevertheless
look on those Presents as mere triffles, and are in great Ex-
pectation of haveing Presents sent them from Sir William Johnson,
— And I see it is with the greatest difficulty that the Officers can
keep them in good humour. —
Sir,
Your Humble Servant
Tho. Hutchins
To George Croghan Esqr.
INDORSED :
Copy
Mr. Hutchins
Journal and Report of
his Tour thro' the Indian
Nations, from his leaving
Detroit —
Enclosed in Sir Wm. Johnson's
of the 12th. Novemr; 1 762 —
530 Sir William Johnson Papers
REPORT OF DANIEL BROADHEAD
Contemporary Copy1
[Sept. 27, 1762]
Daniel Broadhead's Report of his Journey to, and
Transactions at, Wyoming, concerning the New Eng-
enders Attempt to Settle the Lands there, being
Indian Property, made to the Honble. James Hamilton
Esqr. LA Governor of Pennsylvania, 27th. Sepr. 1 762
May it please your Honour,
On Thursday at Nine o'clock at Night, I receiv'd yr. Honour's
Orders by John Moor Esqr. to go up the river Delaware, and
to use my best Endeavours to Discover the Pretences and
intentions of the Connecticut People, who were then Employ'd in
cutting a Road from the upper part of Minnisinks to Wyoming.
Accordingly got ready on Friday, and went to John McDowell's
in Lower Smithfield Township, where I tarried all night. On
Saturday employ'd my Self to gain what Intelligence I cou'd
of the Inhabitants ; how the people of that Township were affected,
to wit, who were concerned with the Connecticut People in Lands?
Who were to supply them with Provisions? WTio were gone
with them? and to take the Names of the Persons, who were
purchasers in that Township, and found that, Benja. Shooemaker,
Daniel Shoemaker, Samuel Dupue, Samuel Drake, Joseph
Wheeler, Wm. Clarke, Senr., Nicholas Dupue, junr, John
McDowell, Hugh Pugh, Wm. Smith, Senior, Joseph Hains, John
Fish, Charles Holmes, & James Lawson, who were the Persons
that had purchas'd Rights, but that the Connecticut People were
refus'd Assistance by each of them, except Daniel Shoemaker,
Joseph Wheeler, Charles Holmes, and James Lawson; They
having gone with them to Wy-oming: Hearing at the same time,
that the New England People were already got to Wy-oming,
was obliged to get a Person to go with me, to help me on the Road,
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 531
which was attended with some Difficulty, it being a busy Time
with the Farmers; I did, however, prevail on my Brother Garret,
to go with Me, and agreed to Pay Him 7s 6d ^ Day, and that
night Lodged at Samuel Dupui's. Early on Sunday morning went
up the River, & when I came to upper Smithfield Township,
found the Inhabitants very close to the Interest of the Connecticut
People, and that They seemed very anxious to know my opinion
respecting, or relating to, the Claim of the Connecticut People:
but I never made any other Reply, than that I had heard the
Indians request of Sir William Johnson, & his Honour our
Governor, that, if the White People came to Settle on the Lands
at Wyoming, they shou'd be removed. They then told me,
that the Connecticut People had lately sold a number of Rights
to the Inhabitants at £48 each, and that they had given out, that
they were determin'd to hold the Lands by Strong hand: and
that Night I staid at Andrew Dingman's, who informed me that
4 Men, that had been with the New England People to Wy-
Oming, were returned; that they told Him, that when the Con-
necticut People came to Wy-Oming, the few Indians there
(not exceeding 7 men) were very angry, and had met them with
their Guns and Tomhawks, (which was afterwards confirmed
by the Indians themselves) and demanded to know their Business,
their Women and Children having fled to the Woods, not knowing
any thing of the Approach of such a number of armed men into
their Country. — On Monday morning set out early, & lodged
within 5 Miles of Lachawacksink Creek1. — On Tuesday, as
soon as we could see to Travel, set out on our Journey, and that
night Lodged within 30 Miles of Wy-Oming. On Wednesday
morning set out early, and after travelling about 5 Miles, met
7 Men, two of them said they were going to New England, to
Conduct 200 Families to their quiet Possession at Wy-Oming;
the other 5 said They were going to Manisink for Flour, and that
the Indians were well pleas'd with their new Neighbours, Soon
after we parted with those Men, we came to a very fine Creek,
1 Lackawaxen Creek, tributary of the Delaware in Pennsylvania.
532 Sir William Johnson Papers
called by the Indians Laghawagheneak, which we followed
to it's Confluence, with the River Susquehannah, about 1 2 Miles
distant from Wy-Oming Town; and at about 4 miles distance
from the New-England People's encampment, met 1 2 men with
their Arms and Accoutrements, and They told me that a great
number of ill-looking Fellows, of the Six Nations, had, a few
minutes before, order'd them to leave that Place, which they had
agreed to, and that the rest wou'd go on the morning following. —
About 5 o'Clock we came to the Encampment, consisting of up-
wards of Seventy men having Guns, where They had cut about
15 Tons of Grass, and I tarried there till night, endeavouring,
among other Things, to get their Names, but soon found them on
their guard as to that: I was, however, directed to Gardner, and
Smith (2 of their Commissioners) who, they Said, would Sell
me as much Land, as I might Choose. Mr. Smith, looking
on me to be a Purchaser, began to tell me that the Pensylvania
Line was Settled by the Indians at the Treaty lately held at
Lancaster; and that it did not extend farther up the River Dela-
ware than Dupue's, and that He did intend to have cut a Road
to Benjamin Shoemakers Mill from Wy-Oming, who wou'd
better supply them. — I asked them, how they claimed the Lands
there? They answer'd, by their Charter, and their indian
Purchase. Then I ask'd them, by whom they were abetted, and
Encouraged? They answer'd, by all the Power of their Govern-
ment of Connecticut ; and added that, They had seen a Proclama-
tion published by their Governor, which, they said, contained
nothing but what They cou'd prove to be false, and absurd. —
That himself, (meaning the Governor), and his 2 Sons, were
privy to their Undertaking, and were concerned with them:
that They were to hold a Treaty with the Indians at Albany
this Winter, and would Settle the Lands next Spring, with 1 000
armed men, & 2 pieces of Artillery : They had begun to Build 3
Block-Houses; and the Indians afterwards told me, that They
were determined to have Built 3 miles in length upon the Bank of
the River, had They not prevented them. — When I came to the
Indian Town of Wy-oming, I saw there between 40, & 50
Seven Years' War 533
men of the Indians, besides women; and most of them were of
the Six Nations, returning from the Lancaster Treaty, among
whom, was an Indian called Thomas King. There was with them
an Irish man, named David Owen; and He, and a Bethlehem
Indian, called Cap1. Augustus, who talks English, told me, that
the Indians had order'd the Connecticut People to go away, and
quit the Land; and said, if they had not done so forthwith, the
Indians wou'd have killed every man of them, before they cou'd
have got into the Inhabitants. I then told them, that I came from
his Honour the Governor of Pensylvania, to see what the New-
England People were doing at Wyoming, and when I returned,
was to make report of what I had seen. They desired me to
thank your Honour, for your Honour's care over them, in the
most affectionate manner, and desired I wou'd Stay with them 2
Days, and rest my Self & Horse, for which I thanked them & Said,
that their Brother the Governor of Pennsylvania was troubled
to hear of the uneasiness the New-England People were like to
give his Friends and Brethren the Indians; and that He cou'd
not sleep easy, untill I returned with the good news of the New-
England People's return to their own Country. Then They agreed
that what I said was right ; and, on Thursday, about 1 0 o'clock
in the Morning, I Set out for Fort Allen,1 and on Saturday, about
2 o'clock, arrived at Easton. — I had not the least Instructions,
in writing, how to Conduct my Self in this undertaking, from
your Honour; and therefore trust your Honour will pardon the
Errors I may have committed. — May it please your Honour,
I am
Yor. most obed1. most hble Serv1.
Daniel Broadhead
27*. Septr> 1 762t
1 Located at the Moravian town of Gnadenhiitten, Northampton county,
Pa. on the Lehigh River, opposite the mouth of the Mahoning. It was
built in January, 1 756, by Benjamin Franklin, who named it after his
old friend, William Allen, chief justice of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
Colonial Records, 7:15.
534 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDIAN INTELLIGENCE
Contemporary Copy1
Intelligence" Received September 28th. 1 762 —
An Indian of good character amongst all the Western Nations
who lived near Fort D'Troit came to my house this Night and
Informed me that there was a great Council held at the Ottawey
Town Above D'Troit this Summer by the Chiefs and Principal
Warriors of the Wyandotts, Cheapwas, Ottawas, and Poutauwau-
timies and some other Tribes who live amongst those Indians on
Lake Superior, above Mechelemackinac and Fort La Bay;3 that
this Council was Kept a great Secret from all Indians Except those
of the greatest note amongst their Nations, that Two French men
came down with the Indians who came from above Mechele-
mackinac in Indian Dress; and that as soon as it Broke up,
Deputies of the Indians were Sent to the Twightwees, Ouiatanons,
Kickaupoose, and Pyankishaws, and other Tribes Settled on the
Wabash, to let them Know the Determination of the Council,
and from thence their Deputies were to pass thro' the Shawneese
Nation to acquaint them likewise, but had orders not to let the
Six Nations or Delawares Know it.
This Man Says I may depend upon it that they were Meditating
Something Against Us and the Six Nations as he Knew they were
all Jealous of Us. — for his part he said he was a friend to both
the English and the French, and wished for peace, he further Says
he never acted during the War for the French, nor would he be
concerned-against them, but is much afraid that Some of the
French will make a general Indian War.
I asked him Several Questions, but he flatly refused telling
me Anything.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; inclosed in Croghan
to Amherst, Oct. 5, 1 763.
2 The information was from George Croghan at Fort Pitt, deputy
of Sir William Johnson.
3 Green Bay (La Baye des Puans), Wisconsin.
Seven Years' War 535
The 30th the Intelligence I received from D'Troit I communi-
cated to three men of the Six Nations who I have always
found to be friends to the British Interest,
And they Informed me that they have lately heard Some
News from a Shawneese Man to the Very Same Effect, with
this Addition that a party of the Owatanons going to War
Against the Cherokees Last Spring passed by a French Fort
in the Forks of Ohio, where they were Stopp'd by the Commanding
Officer, who told them that the English had formed a Design
with the Six Nations and Delawares to cut off all the Western
Nations of Indians; and added, Children, you may believe this to
be true, for you must See that the English has a Design against
You; they give you no Powder nor Lead, nor allows their
Traders to carry you any Except very little — when we Your
Fathers lived amongst You we gave You plenty of Powder and
Lead and all kinds of goods, because we Loved and pitied You,
but as Soon as the English make peace with Us, You are all
Dead. So Children, Run home and tell this News to all my
children, but don't Iett the Delawares and Six Nations know it;
and if You will all be Strong and agree as one Man and Join me
next Spring, when the froggs begin to Speak here, I will Cloathe
You and give You all Arms and Ammunition, then we will go to-
gether and drive the English out of Your Country and restore
peace to Your Women and Children.
The Commanding Officer gave this party Two English Scalps,
and told them You Should never Kill Indians, but always Kill the
English wherever You See them.
INDORSED:
Copy ./. Indian Intelligence
Transmitted by Mr. Croghan to Sir
Jeffery Amherst & Sr W. Johnson —
Sept'. 28* & 30* 1 763 —
Entd. in Vol: 8th Ind». Recds. p. 356 -
536 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN AFFIDAVIT
Contemporary Copy1
City of Philadelphia, ss.
On the Twenty ninth day of September in the year of our Lord
One thousand Seven hundred & Sixty two, Daniel Broadhead of
the Town of Easton in the County of Northampton & Province
of Pennsylvania personally appeared before me Benjamin Chew
Esquire Recorder of the City of Philadelphia, and being sworn on
the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God deposeth and Saith that
He this Deponent wrote and Subscribed with his name the fore-
going Narrative or Report in writing (contained on four Sides of
these two Sheets of Paper) to the Honourable James Hamilton
Esquire Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of the
Province of Pennsylvania, of what He this Deponent saw and
heard in a late Journey, made by Him from Easton aforesaid
to an indian Town or Settlement on the River Susquehannah
called by the name of Wyoming, and that the several matters &
things contained in the said Report or Narrative which relates
to this Deponent's own Knowledge is just and true as therein
Set forth & related, and also that such other parts thereof as
relate to Information or Intelligence which He this Deponent
received from others are faithful and true Accounts of such his
Information & Intelligence without addition or Diminution by Him
made to the same — and further Saith not —
Daniel Broadhead. —
Sworn at Philadelphia
Sept', ye 29*. 1 762 —
Before
Benjamin Chew Recorder
of the City of Philadelphia.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 537
FROM RICHARD PETERS
A.L.S.1
Philadelphia 30 Sepf 1762
Sir
I have the honour to forward to you a Letter from Mr Croghan
which has lain at my house these ten days. It came when I was
attending the Boundary Lines & in opening my Letters which
coverd it they both stuck together & therefore you have two
Seals instead of one.
Mr Pemberton2 and the Quakers associated with him plaid
the same Game at Lancaster as at Easton.3 The Indians were
in council with them every day. They wanted to carry two
Points. One was to set up the Claims of private Indians in
the Sales made by the Six Nations of Lands to the People.
The other was to persuade Beaver & the Delawares on the
Ohio to claim the Lands in dispute wth. Teedyuscung.4 But in
both these Points tho labourd with infinite trouble & I doubt not
a considerable Expence they were disappointed for the Six Nations
woud not meddle with private Claims and Beaver honestly in
open Council declared that None of the Indians with him
had any Claims to Lands on Delaware or in the Forks — that they
had sold all their Lands to the Prop". & were honestly paid for it.
The Governor5 consulted Mr Croghan on every occasion and
had he not been at Lancaster, they woud have imposed more
egregiously on the Indians & made them speak things which were
untrue & extremely injurious to the Rights of the Six Nations.
The Governor by the advice of Mr Croghan put the plain Question
to the Indians whether they had sold the Lands at Wyomink &
Cushutunck or no — And Thomas King6 without consulting any
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Israel Pemberton.
3 See Johnson Papers, 6:772-73.
4 A Delaware Chief.
5 James Hamilton.
6 An Oneida Chief.
538 Sir William Johnson Papers
of the Chiefs around him arose & in a passion said that the New
England People had bought the Lands for 2000 Dollars of
private Indians but not of the Council of Onondago & therefore
these Deeds were good for nothing. He added that the Lands at
Cushutunck belonged to the Delawares meaning the Minisink
Indians. The Governor finding Thomas King so very forward
desird the thing might be considerd in their Council & a sober
answer given to him after consultation among all their Chiefs,
& so broke up this Conference — No sooner were the Indians
out of the Conference Room but Israil Pemberton & his As-
sociates sent for the Chiefs & Instructed them what to say &
had it not been for Mr Croghan I verily believe They woud have
given up the Six Nation Right to the Cushutunck Lands. But on
his hearing what had passed at Israels Conference & asking the
Seneca & Onondago Chief what Powers they had from the
Onondago Council With respect to Lands & whether they were
duly apprized of the consequences of these matters they grew
cool & determind to report the several things to the Onondago
Council.
The Governor having reason to think that some or other of
them had been tutord by Israel Pemberton did not resume his
Question at the subsequent Conference & so they were most
horridly disappointed.
We are very sickly in Town & my presents &, as I supply
the Church in the absence of Mr Duchee who is gone for Double
Orders, I have full Employ. It was but last week that the
Minutes of the Lancaster Treaty were settled & laid before the
Assembly. A Copy is making out which shall be sent to you
as soon as finished.
John ShickCalamy1 infusd some Jealousies into the heads of
the Indians as if the North Boundary of the Albany Purchase was
placed higher than ye Indians intended it at Albany. I found he
1 Son of Shikellimy (d. 1748), the influential Oneida chief. John
succeeded his father for a time as principal intermediary between Penn-
sylvania and the Iroquois.
Seven Years' War 539
knew nothing of the Release & subsequent Deed at Easton & that
the Indians had not so much as said a word to him about these
matters. However by the advice of Mr Croghan I desird the
Governor to call a Council of the Cheifs & to Let Shickcalany
lay this matter before him in their presence which was done & it
turnd out that Conrad Weiser knowing that one Gabriel &
some others had made Improvements above the mouth of Ma-
honiahy had persuaded Shickcalany to put the Boundary so high
above the Mouth of that Creek as to take in their Plantations
Shickcalany said that all this was in private betwn Weiser &
him & being askd if he had ever mentiond it to me either at
Albany or afterwards he said he had not & that I knew nothing
of it nor any of the Proprietary Agents. Thus you see what
mischief these medling Quakers may make in all the Indian affairs.
Be pleasd to let me know if the Indians did not put into your
hands their Deed to the Proprietaries made after our executing
the Release of ye Lands West of Allegheny. Mr Croghan says
that he thinks you have both the Release & the Indian Deed to ye
Prop"., I beg you will let me know what Deeds they did put into
your hands & if you have them now or they have taken them away.
The Indians expressd great resentment at our greedy Thirst
after their Lands and said they woud sell us no more and desird
we woud not settle beyond the Mouth of Mahoniahy. This gave
occasion to the Governor very properly to mention that the Deed
to ye Proprs. fixed the Boundary more northerly but that as the
North Line of the Albany Purchase was not run, he woud, at any
time that Sr Wm Johnson & they thought proper, order the Line
to be run & the Boundaries woud then be exactly known. This
will give you an opportunity of shewing the Indians the incon-
veniency of any Line Being the Boundary of an Indian Sale
and that it shoud always be by natural marks; I have given
directions to the Surveyor to make a map of the Land lying
between the Western Branch & the present Boundary Line & I
hope to send it you time enough that this matter may be conferrd
upon & settled, if you continue to be of the same mind as at
Easton, with the Six Nations in their Council. The Prop" do
540 Sir William Johnson Papers
not want more Land & if there be the least good Objection to the
extension of the Indian Sale to the Western Branch, it need not
be mentioned. But as in Conversation you was clear of Opinion
that this ought to be the Boundary and that it woud prevent many
Quarrels & desird I woud remind you of it I take the freedom,
so fair an occasion offering, to desire you will please to think
upon this matter & do therein what to you shall seem best.
Frederick Post1 is some how or another out of Favour with
Israel Pemberton. He tells me they woud have employd him
in some of their concerns but he utterly refusd to have any Kind
of intercourse with Indians but thro the channel of Government
& therefore they have laid him aside. He is gone Over the Ohio,
but not to continue there at parting he told me that Israel
Pemberton spoke in very unbecoming terms of your Conduct at
Easton & told him (Frederick Post) that they had made a
narrative of your Proceedings & sent it to London to be put into
ye publick Papers.
The Gentlemen of the Assembly have made a strange Remon-
strance to the House full of Invectives against your Conduct at
Easton. I have no pleasure in mentioning these things I woud have
avoided it if a regard to Justice & my sincere affection for you
coud have permitted it. As soon as I can get a Copy of the Remon-
strance it shall be sent to you.
Mr Logan2 is returnd from London and at Lancaster he showd
Mr Chew3 & me some of his Fathers Letters and Papers which
confirmd very much our defence & woud have served to have made
the matter still clearer in the Proprietary favour.
I have to acquaint you that the Connecticut People have
had the Impudence to cut a Road from Delaware to Wyomink and
numbers of them were beginning to make Settlements on a Fine
Tract of Land on the Susquahannah near Wyomink. It happened
very fortunately that the Six Nation Indians were returning from
1 Christian Frederick Post, (1710-1785), Moravian missionary to
Indians.
2 William Logan.
3 Benjamin Chew.
Seven Years' War 541
the Treaty at Lancaster & when they saw these wicked Peoples
Doings they orderd them to go away & an Indian told Mr.
Broadhead who was sent Express by ye Governor to see & warn
them off that if the white people had not forthwith gone away
they woud have murderd them before they coud have reached the
Plantations on Delaware. I hope for the publick Peace yl
during the Winter this matter may be duly considerd by the Six
Nations & likewise by the Government of Connecticut & an End
put to so dangerous an attempt.
I am afraid I have tired you, but ye importance of what I
have wrote must be my Excuse. I am with a most cordial Esteem
Sir
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Richard Peters1
To the Honble SlR WlLLIAM JOHNSON.
INDORSED:2
Philadelphia 30*. 1^ 1 762
Letter from Mr. Peters
TO JOHN TABOR KEMPE
L.5.3
Johnson Hall Oct'. K 1762.
Sir
Before I was favoured with yours of the 13th. ult°.4 I had
wrote a second Letter which I sent by Mr. Marsh (who is now
on his way down) least my former might have miscarried. —
1 The Rev. Richard Peters of Philadelphia, secretary of the Provincial
Council of Pennsylvania.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In Massachusetts Historical Society, In hand of Guy Johnson.
4 See Johnson Calendar, p. 145, for letter of Kempe dated Sept. 13,
1 762, destroyed by fire.
542 Sir William Johnson Papers
I am sorry to find you represent the affair concerning the
Indians Lands in manner as mentioned in your Letter, and could
heartily wish that matters were not so circumstanced, as I am well
convinced their not meeting with proper redress may be attended
with very bad consequences. —
You are the best Judge what steps may yet be taken to prevent,
or at least delay, the proceedings of the opposite party, & whether
it may not be done by throwing the same into Chancery, for which
reason I request you will take any steps that may delay the
Execution of a purpose which must meet with great obstruction
and produce such Effects as my Interest amongst the Indians
may not be able to prevent —
And as I well know the confusion which must Ensue on my
acquainting the Indians that nothing can be done in their behalf,
I should be very sorry to find myself reduced to that necessity,
from the knowledge I have of their resolution to defend their
property which they will thereby look upon as unjustly invaded. —
I am, Sir,
with much Esteem
Your very humble Serv*.
John Tabor Kempe Esq1
Attorney General
WM. Johnson
INDORSED :
Oct'. Is'. 1762
Letter from Sir Willm. Johnson
To John Tabor Kempe
George Klock. —
Seven Years' War 543
GEORGE CROGHAN TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Pitt Oct". 5lh. 1762
May itt Plese yr. Excelancy
Inclosd. I Send you A Copey of Mr. Hutchinns2 Journal who is
Returnd. and with itt a List of ye. Several Indian Nations throw
which he past with thire Numbers as Near as he Could asertain
Likewise a Copey of Mr. Mc.Kees3 Instruians whome I have
Sent to Reside a Moungst ye. Shannas and an Extract from ye.
Minuits I tuck att ye. Treaty of Lancaster with a Copey of Some
Intilagance I have Received Sence My Return hear
By wh. itt apears that ye. french att ye. Elinoies is Very Busey
in Stiring up ye. Westeren Nations to do Misthef. tho Should
they Succeed itt Can be of No Service to them More then giveing
us Truble & Shewing thire Restless Sperrit wh. Conduct Does
Nott Merritt ye. Greatt Indulgences they Receive in being per-
mited to Trade Every where Even att ye. Indian Vilidges where
our Traders are Nott Sufferd. to go and I have Rason to blive
from ye. Sulkeyness of the Indians this Sumer that ye. french att
all our posts are acting as those att ye. Elinoies.
By ye. best accounts I have had itt was two Cherrokes who
had been prisners a Moungst ye. Sinicas & Made thire Escape
Last March, that Merdred ye. two Verginians above Read stone
Creek Last aprel,
I have Demanded from ye. Shannas ye. Man who itt was Said
kilR three white Men on ye. fronteers of Cerrolina Last Spring
Butt I blive from what I Can Learn itt will be found that itt was
1\n Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. This letter is
printed because it is similar in content to the letter of the same
date from Croghan to Johnson, which was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Papers, 3:890.
2 Thomas Hutchins.
3 Alexander McKee.
544 Sir William Johnson Papers
two half Breed Cherrokes and a Mustee or half Molota that was
kilK
I am with Greatt Esteem and Regard yr. Excelancys
Most Humble Servant
Geo: Croghan
P S : the Vouchers of ye. Smiths & Interpreters from Detroit was
Lost with Cap1. Clapham1 who was Merdred Near Presq Isle2
by two Indian Slaves I have Sent for others which I will Inclose
yr. Excelancy with my Next acounts ye. 1 st. of Nobr. Next —
A LIST OF INDIAN NATIONS
Contemporary Copy3
A List of the Number of fighting Men of the Different Indian
Nations thr'o which I passed residing at and near the Several Posts
as nigh as I could Asscertain
At Sandusky
Wyandotts and Mohickons 200
DTroit
Poutauwautimies 1 50
Ottawas 250
Wyandotts 250
Cheapwas 320
970
1 Croghan here confuses the trader Clapham, who was murdered by
two pani slaves, with Captain, or Colonel, Clapham of the Pennsylvania
provincial regiment. The latter was killed in an Indian massacre, May 28,
1 763. See Bouquet Papers, 2 1 654 : 11 3.
2 Now Erie, Pa.
3 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. The list was made
by Thomas Hutchins and was inclosed in Croghan to Amherst, Oct.
5. 1762.
Seven Years' War
545
Michilimackinac
Ottawas 250
Cheapwas 400
Fort La Bay
Meynomeneys 110
Pewons 360
Sax 300
Reynard 320
Fort Sl. Josephs1
Poutauwautimies 200
Ottawas 150
Hie Mineamie2 Fort
Mineamies or Twightwees
650
1090
350
230
The Ouiatanon3
Ouiatanons 200
Kickaupoose 1 80
Musquetons 90
Pyankishaws 1 00
Carried Over
Brought Over
570
4060
4060
Shawneese
At the Lower Town on Scioto
At the upper Town on Muskingum . .
240
60
300
4360
1 On Lake Michigan.
2 Miami on the Maumee river.
3 On site of present Lafayette, Indiana.
546 Sir William Johnson Papers
NB. There is a Nation back of La Bay1 who used formerly
to come there to Visit the french when they were in
Possession of it, Call'd la Seu2 Computed to be 2500
fighting Men who has this Summer sent word to Mr.
Gorrel3 who Commands [there] at that Post that they
purpose paying him a Visit late this fall or early in the
Spring —
INDORSED:
List
of Indian Nations
beyond the Detroit, &ca.
Enclosed in Mr. Croghan's of the
5th. October 1 762.
INSTRUCTIONS OF GEORGE CROGHAN TO ALEXANDER McKEE
Contemporary Copy*
Instructions for Mr. Alexander McKee
October 5th. 1762
Sir
You will proceed to the two Shawneese Towns ; as soon as you
conveniently can and acquaint the Indians of that Nation that
you are sent there by the Commanding Officer here and me to
know if they had agreed amongst themselves and fixed the time
to bring up our People that is amongst them to deliver up agreeable
to their Promises made us last fall and now Repeated at Lancaster
to Governour Hamilton, here you will give
A Large Belt of Wampum
1 Green Bay (La Baye des Puans) , Wisconsin.
2 The Sioux Indians.
3 Lieutenant James Gorrell of the 60th regiment.
4 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; inclosed in Croghan to
Amherst, Oct. 5, 1 762. Also in Canadian Archives, Indian Records,
Vol. 6.
Seven Years' War 547
After which you may tell them that the reason of our sending
you now is that we are surprised that our Brethren the Shawneese,
should be the last Nation delivering up our Flesh and Blood ; and
that we now expect a final Answer wheather they will, or not; as
all other Nations has done it and performed their Engagements.
Then you must tell them in the Strongest Terms that I am
surprised they have not sent me an answer to the speech I sent them
this Summer, by which I desired they would bring up the People
that Killed three English Men; last spring on the Frontiers of
Carolina and deliver them up to us that they might be brought
to Justice — here you must give
A Large Belt —
As I have the greatest Reason to believe that the French living
at the Ilonois Country and those residing at our different Posts over
the Lakes have been endeavouring to Poison the minds of several
of the Western Nations of Indians in Prejudice to his Majesty's
Subjects and endeavouring to Stir up all these Nations to Murder
his Majesty's Officers and Soldiers now in Possession of the
several Forts given up to his Excellency General Amherst, by
the Capitulation at Montreal on the Reduction of Canada; and
as a private Council has been held over the Lakes by the several
Nations there: and Deputies sent to acquaint the Indians living
on the Wabash and Shawneese of the result of that Council, I must
recommend it to you to make it your Study to find out what
they have Determined on as from your General acquaintance with
this Nation I make no doubt if they are Acquainted with the
plan (if any) you will be able to find out the Secret —
And I desire you may acquaint the Commanding Officer or me,
from time to time by Express any thing that you may hear during
your stay there with that Nation.
There are two Deserters amongst the Shawanese, who you will
get as soon as you go there, and send up with two Indians, who
will be paid for bringing them here.
You will acquaint the Beaver, and the Chiefs of the Delawares,
that the Governor of Pennsylvania, has sent up a Gentleman here
548
Sir William Johnson Papers
to Receive the Prisoners, agreeable to their Promises made at
Lancaster, and deliver them a String of Wampum, from the
Commanding Officer here, to let them know it is his Desire They
make all the Dispatch they can, in bringing them here to Deliver
up, that this Gentleman may not be detained here.
A String.
You will likewise deliver the same Message to the Shawanese.
A String.
I wish you a good Journey, and am,
2Sir
Your most humble Serv1.
George Croghan. —
To MR. Alexander Mc.Kee.
INDORSED :
Mr Croghan's
Copy of Instructions
for
Mr. McKee
Enclosed in Mr. Croghan's of the
5*. October 1762 —
EXTRACT FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Pitt, Oct'. 8ih. 1762.
Sir —
The Bearers of this brought me a Letter from you Dated the
29th. of April last, desiring I would procure for them, & their
Party a little Powder & Lead, with Provisions, they being for
War against the Cherokees. — They brought no Party with
1 Closing abbreviated in this copy ; the full closing and signature are
found in the copy in Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Seven Years War 549
them, but said that there was 70 in the Party to come, and De-
manded a Quantity of Ammunition and Clothing for the whole. —
On my Acquainting Coll. Boquett with their Demand, he assured
me that it was not in his power to give any Warriors either
Powder, or Lead, much less Presents, without further Orders
from General Amherst, on which I made them an Answer, &
Endeavored to put them off as well as I could; but they insisted
on being Supplied, or on Going to you, and Said that all the Six
Nations were promised to be Supply'd here by you, as they
part, and signified that they had a Right, as being the Proprietors
of the Land, & Insisted on my writing by them to you. — Coll
Boquet tells me that every Party that has passed by here this
Summer has behaved in the Same manner, As there are frequently
large Parties of the six Nations passing by here, all which Expect
to be Supplied here, and the General not allowing them any
thing, unless that you can Settle it with the Six Nations that they
are not to Expect any Supplies here, or get the General to grant
them some, I am of Opinion from their Behavior, that they will
soon begin to Plunder, and Supply themselves that way. —
Sign'd
G: Croghan
To Sir William Johnson Bar1.
EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[October 10* 1762]
October 10th.
Lieu1. Guy Johnson, one of his Majestys Independ1. Comp^3.
Acting Secretary of Indian Affairs for sometime, was by Comiss11.
Appointed Sir Willm. Johnsons Imediate Dep?. Agent, for that
District of the Six Nations, Mississagas, and the other Dependant
Tribes in their Neighbourhood, by Order of His Excellency Sir
Jeff Amherst Knl. of the Bath &ac. —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
550 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM FRANCIS FAUQUIER
W™. burgh Oct'. 16th. 1762
Sir
At the Desire of Governor Hamilton of Pennsylvania I trouble
you with the Letter inclosed under cover with this to the Chiefs
of the Six Nations, being at a Loss how to convey it to them by
any other Channel. It is necessary for us to observe a strict Neu-
trality between two Nations of Indians at war with each other
but both in alliance with his Majestys Subjects: This I beg the
Faver of you to represent to the Indians. Fidelity on our Side
may at length produce Confidence on theirs.
The Indians sent me a Belt of five Rows of Wampum, as we
have no Wampum here I have beg'd the Favor of Govr. Hamilton
to send up a Belt for me; if he should be in my Situation2 I
must intreat you to give them a Belt for me in token of Friend-
ship, which shall be repaid you in any Manner you shall please
to appoint.
I rejoice at this opportunity of beginning a Correspondence
with a Gentleman of whom I have heard so much to his ad-
vantage, and am
with great Truth Sir
yr. Obed'. Hum. Serv'.
Fran : Fauquier3
indorsed :
Williamsburgh Oct'. 1 6*. 1 762
Letter from Lieut Governor
Fauquier of Virginia
with a Speech to the Six Nations
which Speech is Recorded in Vol. VIII. p. 347
G. Johnson
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 Several lines of the manuscript destroyed.
3 Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, 1758-1768.
Seven Years' War 551
FROM JAMES HAMILTON
L.S.1
Philad. Oct'. 17°. 1762
Dear Sir/
I am to acknowledge the very great obligation you have con-
ferr'd upon me by your favour of the 21° of September,2 which
I received three days ago, just as I was going to forward to you
the inclosed affidavit of your Landlord at Easton, whom I sent
to Wyoming for intelligence, on hearing that a great number
of people from Connecticut were arrived in the province, armed,
and intending to force a settlement at that place. — Brodhead
assured me that upon the Indians warning them to go away they
actually departed the province and returned home; and I the
rather believe this to be so, from my not having heard from
Teedyuscung who promised to give me notice, if any white people
should attempt to settle at Wyoming.
The Six Nations at the late Treaty at Lancaster discover'd the
greatest [je]alousy of our encroachments upon them every where,
and actually refused me in the [m]ost peremptory manner and
with great seeming anger, a passage up the West Branch
Susquehanna for transporting of Goods, thoh manifestly intended
for their Own benefit and that of the Western Indians, as by
saving the heavy expence of Land Carriage, We might be able
to afford Our Merchandize at a cheaper rate. — And with re-
spect to the Lands at Wyoming, they publickly and particularly
put them under the Care of Teedyuscung and the Delawares,
with injunctions to watch them, and give them immediate notice,
if any white people should attempt to settle on them, from all
which I conclude that the Connecticut people will not be able
to obtain their consent to settle those Lands; And that if they
should renew their attempt with an armed force, as they threaten
to do in the Spring, it will occasion a great deal of bloodshed,
1 In Harvard University Library, Sparks Collection.
2 Johnson Papers, 3 :883.
552 Sir William Johnson Papers
and a new Indian War, the consequences whereof, we have all so
much reason to dread. — Hence you will believe Sir, that I
shall exert my utmost power, which is indeed but very small, to
prevent any settlement of those people taking place at Wyoming ;
and I think you have done the publick the greatest service in
representing this matter to the Lords of Trade with your opinion
upon it. I am in hopes they will transmit such orders to America,
as may put end to so pernicious a Design. — I cannot however
but entertain a suspicion that Governor Fitch or his Sons or all
of them have all along and are at present concernd in this project,
inasmuch as all the people who have from time to time been
examined relating to the Authors of this Scheme, from the year
1 754 to the date of the present affidavit have constantly averr'd
that both He and his Sons are interested in those Lands, and
that whatever proclamations he may have issued respecting this
afffir] He is nevertheless a well wisher to its success. In addi-
tion to which I have observ'd that all his letters upon this subject,
are the most artful and evasive that can be imagined, and calcu-
lated rather to save appearances on the part of the Government
than to Show that he himself really disaproves the design; And
I think his Son; (if such he really be) coming to you as a Deputy
from that Company, to learn your sentiments with regard to their
intended settlement, very plainly evinces that my Suspicions are
not ill founded.
Upon my putting the question to the Six Nations, whether the
Connecticut people who are at Cushetunk upon the River Dela-
ware were settled there by their Consent, Thomas King1 un-
advisedly and without consulting the other chiefs said abruptly,
that the Six Nations had nothing to do with those Lands, for that
they belonged to the Delawares. — Upon recollection however,
as I imagine, and upon a small Consultation with the other Chiefs
present, he seemed to retract what he had before spoke, and said
they would speak nothing further about Land at that time, but
would lay the Affair before the Onondago Council on their re-
1 An Oneida Chief.
Seven Years' War 553
turn home, and indeed, this matter is worthy of their most serious
attention ; for if the Six Nations have not a right to the Lands at
Cushetunk, they could have none to those they sold to the pro-
prietors in 1 749 which lye 60 miles lower down the River, and
Consequently they are accountable to the Delawares for what
they received for those Lands.
The Quakers immediately seized upon this oversight of Thomas
King, and work'd it up into an acknowledgment on the part of
the Six Nations that in selling those lands to Mr. Penn in 1 749,
they had sold what did not belong to them but to the Delawares,
who ought to be paid for it ; and from thence took occasion to set
on foot a Treaty with the Six Nations for an exchange of those
Lands they had sold in 1 749, for others to be made out to the
Delawares upon Susquehanna (I suppose at or near Shamokin)
offering besides a further consideration in money to the Six Na-
tions. — They had the modesty to apply to me to countenance
this projected bargain, but I absolutely refused them, as I under-
stand the Six Nations also did.
I believe I mentioned to you at Easton that it was my Opinion
that the Quakers aimed at drawing the confidence and dependance
of all the Indian Nations upon their Body, so that no Colony
should be able to treat or transact Business with them but throh
their means. — Nothing could so effectually answer their purpose
in this respect as the making a permanent settlement for the Dela-
wares (their Creatures) at Shamokin by a purchase of the Lands;
as, through them they might keep up what Correspondence, and
infuse what notions they please into the minds of the Six Nations.
And as they want neither Money nor Industry to accomplish
any thing they undertake they may by degrees be able to give
you much trouble in your department. — I thought it proper to
mention to you my Opinion upon this head, that in case any
such bargain or Exchange should be moved to the Onondago
Council this Winter, as I suspect it will, You may be able to take
such measures to defeat it as you think proper, for I am positive
it is projected with no good intention towards You.
I am extremely obliged to you for Mr. Croghan's attendance
554 Sir William Johnson Papers
at Lancaster, where throughout the whole Treaty he acted such
a part as you would have approved of, and such as became the
Character he is invested with. — were it not, that by his influence
he was able to counterwork the Quakers, We should have had
many wild Schemes and projects, that would have given us much
trouble, put into the Indians heads and insisted on; but to those
He was able very properly to give the go by; so that upon the
whole the Treaty ended happily enough for the Government, but
to the grievous mortification of the Friends. — As this Treaty
was the most expensive One we have ever had, I believe those
people will not be so fond of them for the future, at least untill
they have accomplished their scheme of establishing an Interest
with the Indians superior to all opposition.
I shall hold myself extremely obliged to you for any intelligence
that may come to your knowledge relating to the Connecticut
people, or any other matter which concerns this Province. And
as you are fully Sensible of the Mischeifs that would result from
those people's carrying their Schemes into Execution, no less, in
all probability, than the rekindling the Indian War and desolat-
ing a new the Frontiers of the Several Colonies, I doubt not but
you will continue to exert your best endeavours to prevent it.
I have myself wrote fully to Sir Jeffy Amherst on this Subject
and inclosed him a Copy of Brodhead's affidavit; & If it is con-
sistent with your Judgment I should be much obliged by your
representing your a.pprehe[ once more to Governor Fitch in
the strongest Manner.
I shall be proud to communicate to you on all Occasions, what-
ever I think worthy of your notice relating to Indian Affairs, and
shall send you through Mr. Peters the Lancaster Treaty as soon
as it can be Copied. In the mean time I am with the respect &
Esteem
Dear Sir/
Your Most Obliged humble Serv*.
James Hamilton
Honble Sir Wm. Johnson
Seven Years' War 555
INDORSED:1
Philadelphia 8K 1 7. 1 762
Govr. Hamiltons Letter
with Affidavit of
Daniel Broadhead —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Contemporary Copy
Tuesday October 19lK 1762
Three of the Chief Sachems of the Mohawks, after Holding
a Council of all their Nation at their own Village, came to John-
son Hall, and made the following Complaint to Sir Wm. "that,
after their Consenting to let the Dutch have the Lowland, whereon
Schenectady stands now, for a Trading Place, some of the
Principal Burghers, or Trustees afterwards begged that the Mo-
hawks would allow their Cattle to feed, and Range as far as
Torvrauny? which they after some Consideration agreed to, but
did not sell it to them ; neither have any of their People received
any Consideration for the same; and declared that the old
Sachems often told them how the affair was, and that they
should not forget their Right to said Land, and further Say'd
that sev1. of them went to the late Jacob Glen last year about
the Matter, who Answered that he knew the Affair very well,
and had the Writings relative thereto in his Possession, and would
produce the same to Sir William as soon as he Returned from
Detroit, adding that the sooner the affair was settled, the better,
lest he might dye — " that they had applied to Sir Wm. about
the matter last Spring, at which time he told them that it must
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Tou-ar-e-u-ne hills. See Beauchamp, Aboriginal Place Names of
New York, p. 200.
556 Sir William Johnson Papers
be deferred until the Six Nation Meeting (which was soon to
take Place) was over. — Sir William answered them that he
would write to the Schenectady People to produce their Deeds
to him soon & at the most proper time he could give them Notice
to Attend. —
FROM WILLIAM LESLYE
Michimilimackinak 22d Octr 1762
Agr[ ]
Commanding officer at Detr[oit ]
given to Jacob Farly a Certificate [ ]
Interpreter at [ ] post from 28th. Sepr. [ ]
to 28th. Septr. 176[ ( ] time I Commanded here)
at one Dollar pr Day, that being the Saliry Agreed to be given
him, I have Also Certify'd the Gun Smiths Account for repairing
the Indian Arms &c from & to the same date to that time Am-
mounting to 1 795 livers . . 17 Sols — both of which will be
presented] to you & I make no doubt but youle Approve of
them & order the payment. —
I dare say you have been informed that Etherington2 Com-
mands at this post, I have the Honour to be
Sir
Your Most Obed1 Hule [Serv*]
WillM. [Leslye]3
addressed :
Jojhnson Bar1
Johnson —
1 In New York State Library. Because of its mutilated condition, this
letter was not printed in Johnson Papers; 3:91 1.
2 Lieutenant George Etherington, of the 60th. regiment.
8 Lieutenant William Leslye of the 60th regiment.
Seven Years' War 557
INDORSED:1
Michilimacinac Octbr.
[ ]22d. 1762
Lieu*. Leslys Letter
wlh. the am', of ye Smiths
& Interpreters pay there
FROM ABRAHAM MORTIER
[New York, Oct. 23, 1762]
I 1
[
dated 25lh Sept[
Warrant in [
Equal to £764 [15:8?]
Warrant indor[
I take [
Set of Receipts |
to sign & [
M' Wade3 [
on me [for] making together £558:8:11 Pennsylvania [
to Accomodate him I have given him [
Philadelphia, so that the ballance or[
in my hands on the forementioned War[
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 Because it was partially burned, this letter was summarized in
Johnson Papers, 3:913. Date is supplied by Johnson Calendar, p. 1 48,
where it is also stated that it notified of "receipt drawn in Johnson's
favor by Gen. Amherst, inclosing receipts for Johnson's signature and
mentioning bills presented to him by Mr. Wade and his payment of same
by bill in Philadelphia."
3 Francis Wade.
558
Sir William Johnson Papers
£206.6.9 N York Currcy. wch. shall be di[
to you [r] order
764"15"8
264" 1"
200"14:81
Sir Wm. Johnson Barr1
I am with great Regard
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient a [nd]
Humble [Servant]
A[braham Mortier]
INDORSED
New York 8K 23< 1 762
Letter from Abrm. Mortier Esqr.
wth. 3 Receipts —
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
./i . I— i, O.
Johnson Hall <SK 24th. 1762
Dear Sir/
Yours of the 10th.4 of July I received, and agreable to your
desire thereby Signified have answered Mr. Montours Draft,
and your own, altho he was in my Debt somewhat at the time. —
I have not received Willices deposition, which you said Mr. Peters
would Send me, which would have been of as much consequence
1 This computation at this point on manuscript.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Cadwallader Collection. The
mutilated draft of this letter was printed in Johnson Papers 3:913-15.
Since the original contains phrases and ideas not in the draft, it is given here.
4 In Johnson Papers, 3:326-27.
Seven Years' War 559
as all the rest. — Yours of the 4th. 7br.1 is also come to hand,
but have not as yet seen the Treaty held at Lancaster, Mr. Peters
wrote me some time ago he would Send me it as soon as coppied,
but have not recd. it yet.2 which is wrong, as I should be imedi-
ately acquainted wth. all that passes at everry publick Meeting
wth. Inds. for many reasons. — from the generall Idea you have
given me of the late Treaty, I think it answered but little or no
purpose except the delivery of our People who were Prisrs. wh.
you do not mention a word of. however I shall be a better Judge
of ye. consequences of it, when I see the Treaty. I hear that
Kindarunti3 or Blew Cheeks is since dead of Wounds he recd.
from one of his own Countrymen, indeed if so, I am Sorry for it
for as You Justly observe he might be made a useful Man. —
It gives me no small pleasure to find that the Quakers were dis-
apointed in all their Sinester & unjust Views & I think it a pitty
they could not be brought to ace11, for ye. Immense Sums of
Money You say they threw away at Said Meeting, as that would
break them of the like profuseness for the future. I am in hopes
that the true representation I sent home of what passed at Easton
will convince ye. Ministry of the necessitty there is for checking
their Insolence and Unjustifiable interfereing in Indian Matters,
or management.
I doubt not you will find Mr. Hutchins4 returned on your
arrival at Pittsborough, as I was told by one of the Traders he
was returned from La Bay a great while ago, — I had a letter
sometime past from Mr. Gorrel° Commds. that Post, who gives
me an Acctl. of Severall Nations Inhabiting them parts, & their
Numbers, he has not as yet been able to procure me any of the
1 In Johnson Papers, 3:873-75.
2 Here is a discrepancy. In the draft letter to Richard Peters, October
19, 1762, Sir William acknowledged receipt of the Treaty. Johnson
Papers, 3:908-9.
3 A Seneca chief who had been active in stirring up his people against the
English.
4 See Thomas Hutchins Journal, ante p. 521.
5 Lieutenant James Gorrell of 60th regiment.
560 Sir William Johnson Papers
Curiosities or Firrs I gave him Comisn. to purchase. — Sir Jeff.
Amherst has lately thought proper to retrench Indian Expences
as much as possible, by doing which, he has Struck of one of yr.
Assistants, which as You must have been acquainted with ere
now, I need not say more about here. — Mr. Montour1 is to
have but £50 Sterling *p Annum as Interpreter, to commence
from ye. 29th. of this Ins1. Octbr. and if Mr. Mc. Gee2 will accept
of £ 60 SterK P annum for acting as an Assistant in that Quarter,
Viz*, along the Susquahana River & its Branches, I will on his
letting me know it's agreable, appoint him & send such Instruc-
tions as I shall Judge necessary, and in such case his pay shall
commence from the 29th. of this Ins'; wh. day, Montours pay
as an officer ceases, which you will please to let them both know
as soon as possible. — I am oblidged to you for ye. Plan of the
Town you sent me, it is a verry good one but too extensive for
the place I intend mine. — the Ace", of the Head of the White
Hatts,3 is verry merry, and I think verry worthy of haveing a
place in the Publick prints, sure I am, that many things not half
so diverting or Interesting are daily published in Papers and Maga-
zines, and I must say I heartily wish that the Worthy Member
had some kind freind who would make known his good Works
& pious intentions of propagateing the Species agreable to the
Word, it is a pitty so good an Action of his, should pass un-
noticed, besides he may never perhaps afford his Freinds so
favourable an opertunity of Sounding his praise as now —
Aron the Mohawk is lately come here from the Detroit, and
tells me the Hurons desired him to let me know, that the Smith
whom you sent there, will not mend their Traps nor Hoes, wh.
are as necessary Articles as any they have, and that he has no
Steel to mend any thing, they also complain that the Interpreters
do not honestly Interpret between the Commanding officer there
& them, & further that the French Inhabitants commit great
1 Henry Montour.
2 Alexander McKee. "The old gentleman" is inserted here in the draft.
3 "Head of the Quks." in the draft.
Seven Years' War 561
Trepass on their [ JHters Lands, such as Cutting away
their wood, wh. they have but verry little of near their Village,
and that cheifly when they are out on ye. Hunt. As such treatment
must create uneasiness in ye. minds of ye. Indians and produce mis-
understandings, between them & our People there I would have
you look into it, and if their complaints are found to be well
grounded, You will use all the means in your [ ] to have
them redressed. As the Inds. in that part of ye. [ ] deserve
good treatment. — Aron propos [ ] the Spring of the Year,
when I shall let them know by w[ ] that I have wrote you
about their complaints, and that if Just, You will see that they are
redressed. — We have nothing new here, all is peace & quiet-
ness. — My Family all Join me in wishing You all the Success
imaginable. & I am Dear Sir
Your Sincere Freind
& Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
George Croghan Esq.
My Compliments to Coll: Boquet.
FROM ROBERT SANDERS
A. L. S.2
Albany &« 26: 1762
Sir
I am Sorry [that] I have not till of Late
Been Informed of Mr. Ellwoods3 Death who owed
To me £24:10:7. And [since I thi]nk that you Administer
on his Estate, If you [ ] if you let
me know it, By a Line or [
1 Brackets indicate a portion of letter which is missing.
2 Because of its mutilated condition, this letter was not published
in Johnson Papers, 3:917.
3 James Ellwood.
562 Sir William Johnson Papers
My attested Acco1. Against [
He had a good farm and tha[
So Supose he left Asetts Suffic[ient to pay his]
Debts, Your Advise and Assistance in Recor[ding]
This my Just Demand on Sd. Estate will Add to the
Favours alrady Received from you, By
Dear Sir
Your most Gratefull & Obed1. Serv1.
Robt Sanders
Sir William Johnson Bart:
P.S. I have been Confined
by a very Soar leg to my house
above 6 months, Thank God seems to
mend now, Mrs. Sanders Joins me in Best Regards to [you]
and all yours
ADDRESSED :
To
Sir
Will
iam Johnson Bart:
At
Mount Johnson
INDORSED :
[
] 1762
[
] t of Elwoods
FROM JOHN JOHNSTON
Cop})1
The Belt Was Delivered in Such a Manner in this Place as
Was Likely to have Sset on foot things that Would not have
been Agreeable: the Substance of the Speech Was that You
did not Ammaigan for What End the Sachams are a Comeing
or What they Will Answer for themselves & Without the Prison-
1 A fragment in the Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
Seven Years' War 563
ers it Will not Answer for them to Make their Apperance Before
You: and as for Your part You know in Genarl the Sentemnt
of Six nations, But the Gen', in York is of a Contrary Mind
Alway8 a Studying for the Destruction of their Brethern and for
Your part You Can Always Metigate Matters With on another at
the Councell but the Gen1. Would not be Satisfied With Such
frivoulous Excuses untill for Good he Would have the Murdurers,
and in Case the Sachems Were a Comeing down to Turn them
Back Without the Would Run hazards to Come down through
thee Inhabatants and that the Gen1 : is in a Manner Very Easy how
Soon they are a Mind for Mischef thee Barer Was a Going to Pro-
ceed through the Six nations and Twee: twees to Alarm all: on
the aforesaid Subject —
The Barer Guy:ang Waurautee Stop1 the Belt and Brings it
down to be Certain if it is to the purpose as Represented and if
So to Let the Belt Proceed through the Six nations — As Soon
as I Recived Your Letter they Desired to have knowledg What
Was in the Letter I told them in Short that it Was to make my
Self Easy in My Mind With my Brethern it being false What
Was Alledgd. Against me in my Writing to You to the Disad-
vantage of their Castle, and that You Was Informed that the
Cheifs of their Castles Was Comeing down Which You thought
Was Needless Without the Prisoners they Were determined to
Send down a Number of their Chief Warrours But I Stop*, them
and told them it Was Needless as they Would find it Very hard
for Provision Turn Over — 1 But if Determind to Go down the
fewer the Better — They Also Desire that What Your Answer
may be that You Will Remit it to me by Letter So as I may
Deliver it to them According as Will be Charged in the Belt
You shall be pleasd. to Send/,
Likewise the two Murdurers are Gone as I can Understand
towards Ohio to Some hunting Place they Resort at I have Got a
Coat Which one of this Nation forced from the Murdurer that
1 End of the page in manuscript volume.
564 Sir William Johnson Papers
Belonged to one Allin1 Who Made his Escape To Conclude
it is my Oppinon that in Case there Was Such a thing as to Grant
them forgiveness that it Would forever Retard Others from doing
the Like as they are Greatly Concernd. About it no More at
Present
I Remain Your Ever Devod & hume. Sarv1
John Johnston2
P:S They Enquire1* of me if I would Come and Work another
Season and Trade With them I made them Answer that Ac-
cording as things was on a footing and Your Pleasure I would
Give Sir William an Item : that their is a White fellow a prisoner
from this Place Who is in Indian Disguise Which Prehaps may
be to Inspect into things Down Country So as if any thing in
English Should be Drop* he may as Redely Explain the Mean-
ing of it —
There is a Horsse hear With one Eye that Was Stole from
Old Brant at Conjohary By a White fellow that Lives here in
the Sinachais I Beg the Favour of Sir Willm. to Send me a New*.
paper Inclosed. as it Would be Very Agreeable to me in this
Remote Place
The Barer Spake in the Cause of the Interest
1 See Johnson to Monckton Nov. 12, 1762 concerning the escape of
Allen. This places the murder in October, 1 762. See Johnson to Amherst,
Nov. 1 2, 1 762 which speaks of the murder, the escape of Allen and
his arrival at Fort Johnson. Post p. 567.
2 A smith among the Senecas.
Seven Years' War 565
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MINUTES
Contemporary Copy1
[November 3 J 762]
At a Council held at Fort George in the City of New York on
Wednesday the third Day of Novemr. 1 762 —
Present — His Excellency the Honble. Robert Monckton Captain
General & Governor in Chief. —
Mr. Horsmanden2 Mr. DeLancey4 —
Mr. Smith.3 — Earl of Stirling.5 —
It being represented to this Board in Behalf of the Parties
laying Claim to the Lands comprehended within the Conajoharie
Patent, that the Time Appointed for the Hearing the Matter of
Complaint of the Conajoharie Indians, respecting the said Lands,
will be very Inconvenient for the Attendance of such of the said
Indians, whose Examinations it may be necessary to take on this
Occasion: It is therefore Ordered by his Excellency the Gov-
ernor, with the Advice of the Council, that all Examinations6
of the said Indians, taken in the Presence of Sir William Johnson
Baronet, and three of his Majestys Justices of the Peace of the
County of Albany, and Certified by them, be Admitted to be
read before this Board, at the Hearing on the Fifteenth Day of
December next. —
A true Copy Examd. by —
GW:BanyarDc1Cou7
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Daniel Horsmanden.
3 William Smith.
4 James De Lancey.
5 William Alexander.
6 See Declarations of Sachems, Nov. 24, 1762, post p. 571
7 Goldsbrow Banyar, Deputy Clerk of the Council.
566 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM RICHARD PETERS
jx • JL<. O.
Philadelphia 4 Nov 1762
Dear Sir
Your kind Letter of the 1 5th 8ber2 deserves a longer Answer
than I can now have time to write. The inclosed from Govr
Fauquier came just time enough to forward it by the Post, and
as I know a little time is of great use on particular Occasions in
Indian Affairs I would not delay it one moment.
The Speech may be objectionable in that part where he advises
a Peace between the Northern Indians & the Cherokees. If you
think it improper, or that it will disoblige the Indians, Governor
Hamilton thinks you will do well to alter it, (or leave it out)
so as to accomodate it to the Temper of the Indians. The Like
advice was proposed to be given to the Indians at Lancaster by
the Commissioners, & I consulted Mr Croghan thereupon but
he advised the Governor Not to meddle between the Two Na-
tions: for this reason Mr Hamilton desird me to mention this
matter to you.
The Paper, which I see by yours I called the Assemblys
remonstrance, is no more than a Report of the Committee of
Assembly, made to ye house on their return from Easton of their
Proceedings there, and when it was read in the House, Mr Allen3
objected to that part of it wherein they had represented your
Conduct in an untrue & unfavourable Light, & upon Mr Allen
contesting this Report it was not agreed to, but lies by for further
consideration in January, when they will push it or not, as they
find you have represented them to the Ministers, or to the Board
of Trade. So that no Copy can be at present got of it.
It is apprehended as Mr Allen says that tho they have Wrote
several bad & angry things against you to their Friends in London,
1 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
2 Not found.
3 William Allen, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, 1750-1774.
Seven Years' War 567
yet they will not be made publick if they find you have spared
them in your Report of the Hearing at Easton.
Mr Franklin is come & will I suppose take the Lead; & these
Partizans who were up at Easton will follow any advice he
gives on the Occasion. I am afraid of losing the Post or I shoud
say more
I am
Dr Sir
Your ml obedient
humble Servant
Richard Peters
Pray be pleasd to furnish a
Belt for Ye Govr of Virginia, as
one sent by ye Post woud be expensive.
Mr Croghan is to account with you
for ye Belt you was so kind as to let
me have at Easton.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Fort Johnson Novbr. 12th. 1762 —
Sir
I have been honoured with your Excellencys Favours of the
1 7th. and 3 1 st. Ult°.2 since the receipt of which I have been in-
formed that the people of Connecticut have desisted from their
design, & are returned home, on receiveing some threats from a
party of Indians passing that way, and I am hopefull they will
give over all thoughts of the same.
My Interpreter at Niagra informs me that a Trade is certainly
carrying on by some French Traders with the People of Mis-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; extract printed in
Johnson Papers, 3:932.
2 In Johnson Papers, 3 :904-5 ; 920.
568 Sir William Johnson Papers
sissipi, and I have it likewise from Sevr11. Hands that many of
the French have obtained liberty from the Officers at the out
Posts, and are gone to the Illenois and Country adjacent, whereby
the Enemy will not only be furnished with constant intelligence,
but also with such goods as they may stand in need of, at a cheaper
rate than they could be brought from New Orleans, and I am
certain that the French Traders will be readily induced to abuse
any indulgences they may meet with on that head. —
The reports of the French building Forts in ye. Cherokee
Country continues to prevail, they will certainly take everry
measure for ascending the Mississipi & obtaining possession of
some of the Lakes once more if possible. —
I return your Excellency thanks for ye. Copies of Mr. Croghans
Intelligence, which he has likewise transmitted to me, together
with the Journal & Report of Mr. Hutchins1 his late assistant who
made the Tour lately by my orders thro all the Indian Settle-
ments near the Lakes, and as there are some things worthy
observation therein, I enclose Your Excellency a Copy thereof. —
Just now one Allen from Niagra arrived here in company with
two Seneca Indians. He informs me that about a fortnight ago
he being in company with one William Newkirk of the Mohawk
Country and his own Servant were met on the Banks of the Seneca
Lake near to the Castle of that Nation called Canussadage^ by
two Indians of Kanestio, a village towards the Ohio, who Shook
hands with 7Ven>fcir£, and after passing them by, imediately faced
about and fired upon them, by which Newkirk and the Servant
were killed, and Aliens horse shot under him, and himself made
prisoner, that ye. Indians of the Seneca Castle freed him, and
after expressing great concern for what had happened, they sent
two Indians with him hither, one of them charged with several
Belts of Wampum excuseing themselves from haveing any part
therein, or being privy thereto. — I have thereupon dispatched
a Message to that Nation or Village requireing them imediately
to deliver up the Offenders on pain of our resenting it on the
1 Thomas Hutchins. See his Journal, ante p. 521
Seven Years' War 569
Castle to which they belong, and those Indians were likewise
charged to inform me that their Nation have imediately called a
Meeting thereon at Onondaga where they request the presence
of the Mohawks, I shall therefore send Lieu*. Johnson1 to attend
the same with proper instructions for yf. purpose as I took the
liberty to place him my Deputy on receipt of yr. Excellencys
favour of the 1 0th. Ult°. that I might loose no time in employing
him as such, until he has disposed of his Commission. —
I have the honour to be
with the utmost respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath —
FROM ROBERT MONCKTON
A. L. S.2
Fort George. New York —
22*.NovK1762 —
Sir
I had Yesterday the Honour of Receiving your letter of the
12th. Ins1.3 — And should sooner have Acknowledged the
Receipt of your former letters — But that they did not require
any Immediate Answer, and I expected Daily your Recom-
mendations to the Vacancys in your Regiment. The Vacancys of
1 Guy Johnson.
2 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
3 Johnson Papers, 3:933-35.
570 Sir William Johnson Papers
Field Officers, I have fill'd up according to your Recommenda-
tions. Mr. Duncan1 would make a verry good Field Officer, but
it would not be right, to put him in at Present over the Old
Captains. —
I should have had a proper Regard to your Recommendation
of Mr. McCracken2 had I found it necessary to Remove the
Sheriffe of Albany, — As I shall always of any Persons you
may think proper to Recommend to any Thing in my Power. —
Having been Confin'd to my Room lately. Mr. Banyar3 will
have Inclos'd you a Copy of a Resolution of Council, in Relation
to the Complaint of the Conajore Indians, of which There is to
be a Hearing On the 1 5th. December — When you may be
assur'd all due Regard, will be had to the Complaints of the
Indians, and such Relief given them as their Cause may Appear
to deserve. — I am sorry to hear of the loss of the Mohawk and
Aliens Servant But hope that you will be Able to get the Offend-
ers. — I hope Sir, that you Enjoy your Health —
And am
with much truth & Esteem
Sir
Your Most Obedient Humble. Serv'.
R0BT. MONCKTON4
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
INDORSED:5
Fort George New York
22< Nov. 1 762
Letter from Govr.
Monckton
1 Richard Duncan.
2 William McCracken.
3 Goldsbrow Banyar.
4 British general in French and Indian War; colonial governor of
New York, 1761 and 1762.
5 In Johnson's hand.
Seven Years' War 571
DECLARATION OF SACHEMS
Contemporary Copy1
[November 24, 1762]
Declaration2 of the Sachems of Conajoharie in Defence of
their Lands in Dispute taken in the Presence of Sir William
Johnson, and three Justices of the Peace, Pursuant to the
Order of Governor, and Council of the 3d. of Novembr. at
Conajoharie the 24th. Day of November 1 762. —
We Araghiadecka, Cayenquiragoa, Canagaraduncfya, Onian-
rvongtha, and Synoghsis, being Oldest, and Principal Sachems
of Conajharie Assembled agreeable to the Order of his Excel-
lency, the Governor and Council, of this Province, of the third
Ins*, take this Opportunity of Returning them the Unanimous
Thanks of our Castle for their Attention to our Grievances, and
for the Opportunity which they now offer us of representing the
same, as we have been for some time past greatly Distressed, and
Threatned to be Dispossessed of our just Property, by those
whom we always considered as our Children, and who have had
all their Possessions from us, which has caused the greatest Grief,
and Uneasiness imaginable amongst us.
We have from Time to Time, given our Brethren large Tracts
along the Mohawk River, for a very triffling Consideration:
We therefore hope that his Excellency the Governor, of whom
we have heared an universal good Character, will Secure to us
the Possession of the little which we have Remaining, especially,
as we have during the course of the War faithfully Assisted the
English at the Expence of many of the Lives of our People, and
have no other Recourse left, but the Lands now in Dispute, which
we do assure the Governor, and Council, we never disposed of
by our Castle, nor did we ever consider them as Lands Sold, in
which case, we should never have disputed concerning them, as it
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 See Executive Council Minutes, Nov. 3, 1 762. Ante p. 565.
572 Sir William Johnson Papers
is well known we never Claim any Lands we Sell, nor ever have
called fair Purchases on this River, in Question : but in this pres-
ent Case we have been greatly Overreached, which we might
have Remained in Ignorance of, for a considerable time, had we
not found out by mere Accident a Surveyors Staff stuck in the
Ground, where he had been, during the night, surveying our Lands,
without our Knowledge, and contrary to the usual Custom, when,
as in all fair Purchases, Surveys are made in the Day, and in
the Presence of some Indians. — At the Time of this [this]
Discovery, the greatest part of our People were abroad Hunting
Pidgeons, which we Imagine induced the Surveyor to take that
Advantage, and which all our Castle highly Resented. — Shortly
after, We were Informed, that the Survey had been made by
one Collins. — We have heard that the Land lying on the South
shore of the * from the End of the large Island called
Degaghneghtahere, or Bleechers Island, to two large Rocks in
the River, near the House of Christian Nellus, was disposed of
in a private Manner by a few of our People, who had been made
drunk for that purpose, under Colour of which, the Persons who
had been concerned therein, took in all the Land up to Onorve-
daga Creek, which we Suppose they were desirous to keep private,
until all the Indians were dead, that they might then Share the
whole amongst them. — but we positively Deny that the Lands
from these Rocks upwards were ever disposed of by us, or any
of our People. — These we do most solemnly Declare to be the
Unanimous Sentiments, and Opinion of all the Indians of our
Castle, and therefore we most earnestly Entreat the Governor &
Council to take our Case into Consideration, and to Secure to us
the Possession of our Just Property for the Support of our Wives,
and Children, who must inevitably perish, unless Relieved in
the Premisses. —
Taken at Conajoharie November the 24th. 1762 in the
Presence of Sir William Johnson Bar'., and of us the under
mentioned Justices of the Peace for the County of Albany,
1 Blank in the Manuscript.
Seven Years' War 573
who are well Acquainted with the Indian Language, and
have perfectly understood the foregoing to be their Dec-
laration. —
William Johnson
Peter Conyin
John Butler Justices
Hen : Frey Junr. ,
FROM HORATIO SHARPE
Copy1
Annapolis the 25th of Nov 1762
Sir
Governor Hamilton2 having lately sent me an Extract of a
Speech that was made to him by the Six Nations at the Lancaster
Treaty last Summer by which I observe they desire one Daniel
Cresap of this Province may be ordered to keep a Store House
on Potowmack near the Road their Warriors pass on their
Expeditions against the Southern Indians I take the Liberty to
send you a Copy of the Extract & to desire Your opinion of their
Intention in making such Application ; for if they ask no more than
that Dan1 Cresap may be permitted to trade with & sell their
parties as they shall pass & repass such Articles as they may
want he is at liberty to do so without any special Lycence from me
there being no Law to restrain such Trade but if what they want
is that the above-mentioned Person may be impowered to
supply their Parties gratis or at the Expence of the Province with
such Goods as they may apply for I cannot take upon myself to
give him Orders to that Effect & am much afraid that the As-
sembly, should I recommend the Matter to them, would not
subject their Constituents to such an Expence; however to
1 Printed in Archives of Maryland (correspondence of Governor
Horatio Sharpe, Vol. Ill), 14:80-81.
2 Governor James Hamilton of Pennsylvania.
574 Sir William Johnson Papers
prevent any Disputes between such Parties of Indians & the
Inhabitants in case they should want provisions as they pass thro
this Province I have recommended it to Mr Thomas Cresap
Father of the Person abovementioned who lives about fifteen
miles on this Side Fort Cumberland1 to furnish with necessary
Provisions such Indian Warriors as may apply to him & I have
promised to lay his Accounts before the Assembly for Payment
hoping they will not object to making him satisfaction tho at the
same time I wish those Indians when they go to the Southward
could be prevailed on to take their Rout (which in my opinion
is equally convenient to them) by the way of Fort Cumberland
where I understand one of the Kings Officers still resides in the
Character of Fort Major, & is I presume authorized & enabled
to receive & entertain such Friendly Indians as may at times take
Occasion to call at that place. As I shall decline returning
any Answer to the Indians Request till you shall be pleased to
communicate to me Your Sentiments thereon I should also
be obliged to you for informing me whether I may then take
the Liberty to address my Answer to You or by what other
means I may convey it to them.
TO JOHN TABOR KEMPE
L.S.2
Johnson Hall 26* Nov. 1762.
Sir
Yours of the 15th. Ins*. I received three Days ago, and am
sorry to find thereby, that there are so many Difficulties in the Way
to Justice. — I think what you hinted to the Governour in your
Report was very proper and could wish it to take Place: but
will not the hearing of that Affair by the Governour & Council
the 15th. of next Month, determine it one Way or other?
A few Days ago I received Copy of a Minute of the Council
on the 3d. Ins1, touching the Manner in which the Examination of
1 Fort Cumberland in Maryland.
2 In Massachusetts Historical Society.
Seven Years' War 575
any Indians respecting the Canajoharee Pattent are to be
taken; upon which I had a Meeting with the Indians of that
Village, at which, in the Presence of three of his Majestys
Justices of the Peace, their oldest Chiefs declared, that none
of the Land now in Dispute was ever sold — but, what they
describe in said Declaration, and that, they say was obtained in
a fraudulent Manner, and, from only a few of their People made
drunk for that Purpose; however, they are willing to give up
all Pretensions to the Lands within the Bounds mentioned in
their Declaration, but insist upon it, that the Lands from the
2 Roc^s, described by them, up to Onarvadage^ Creek were
never Sold, but stole from them by a Night Survey, at a Time
when all their People were out upon the hunt, as will more
fully appear by their Declaration which I have transmitted to the
Governour ; And which I hope will (together with the Papers and
Affidavits formerly Sent by me to the Lieu1. Governour) satisfy
the Governour and Council, that they are much injured, which
is the Opinion of every unprejudiced Man in the Country.
I hope soon to hear something agreable from you on that head,
and Am with much Esteem,
xSir
Your Sincere Welwisher
& Humble Servant
John T. Kempe Esqr. WM. Johnson
P.S. I should be glad to know how
George Klock got over ye. prosecution
wh. you were to carry on against him
by an Order of ye. Lieu*. Govr. & Council
dated the 7th. Day of April last —
INDORSED
26^. Nov. 1 762.
Letter from Sir Will™. Johnson,
to Jno Tabor Kempe
1 From this point and postscript in Johnson's hand.
576 Sir William Johnson Papers
JOURNAL OF ALEXANDER Mc KEE
Contemporary Copy1
Mr. Alexander Mc. Kee's Journal of Transactions with the
Shawaneze, &c, from Ocf. 12lh. to Nov. 27th. 1762.
October the 1 2th. 1 762, This day set out from Fort Pitt,
in order to visit the Shawaneze Towns, in pursuance of the follow-
ing Instructions2 received of George Croghan Esquire.
October the 13th, I met a Party of twenty Warriors of the
Six Nations, returning from War, with a Cherokee Prisoner, and
a Scalp; and as their principal Warrior was dead, and most of
their Party Sick, They requested I wou'd write back, with them,
to Fort Pitt, in order to get a Doctor to view their Sick.
1 4th. Set off from hence, and arrived at Tuskarawas the 1 6th.,
where I made the Delawares acquainted with that part of my
Instructions relating to them. After which, the Conversation
that pass'd before me, between the Beaver, and Shingass, was,
that They cou'd give no positive answer to that Message, as most
of their People were already gone a Hunting; and that there
had not been time to acquaint them all, with what had passed at
the Treaty of Lancaster:3 But They Said They wou'd Send this
Message to the rest of their People living at Guiyahoga, and then
requested, that I wou'd give it to them in writing, which I accord-
ingly did. — The Beaver then informed me that, He was
going a Hunting, and wou'd be at Home in Thirty days, at
which time He wou'd expect to meet me returning, and be able
to give an Answer, when He heard from Guiyahoga.
The 19th. left Tuskarawas, and arrived at Waketummaky.
The 2 1 sl. Here I informed the Shawanese with the Same Message,
by a String of Wampum from the Commanding Officer, that I
had Delivered the Beaver, and the Chiefs of the Delawares. —
Their Chief told me, in answer to it, "That for his part, and the
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Printed under date of Oct. 5, 1 762, ante p. 546.
3 August, 1762.
Seven Years' War 577
People of his Town, they were always ready, and willing, to
deliver up the Prisoners amongst them, and that They could not
account for the Backwardness of the People of the lower Towns,
in coming up with their Prisoners ; and desired me to Insist on the
Deputies of their Nation, who were at the Treaty of Lancaster,
and heard all that passed there, to press the People of the lower
Town, to make all possible Dispatch, in coming up, before the
Winter Sat in, that He, & his People wou'd then be ready.
The 23d. after I had finish'd my Business, Sat off for the
lower Shawanese Town, where I arrived the 27th., when I went
to the principal Warrior's House, and informed Him, that I
was come upon Business to their Nation, and desired He would
acquaint the Chiefs with my Arrival; and that They wou'd let
me know when They wou'd be ready to hear the Messages, I had
to deliver them from the Commanding Officer at Fort Pitt, and
George Croghan Esqr. —
He then informed me that their Chiefs were at Council, at
that time, and He wou'd immediately acquaint them with it.
The 30th., When They were assembled, They sent for me, &
told me They were ready to hear what I had to Say to them.
Upon which, I then acquainted them, by two large Belts of
Wampum, with the Speeches I was charged with in my Instruc-
tions: and at the same time, informed them by a String of
Wampum, of the arrival of a Gentleman at Fort Pitt, sent up
by Governor Hamilton, to meet them there, agreeable to their
request at the Treaty of Lancaster. They then Said, They wou'd
speak to me the next Day.
The 31st., When they were met, one of the Chiefs, by a
large Belt, Acquainted me, "That since their Deputies had
come Home, & inform'd them of the good Usage They had
receiv'd from their Brethren, the English, They had held a
Council amongst themselves concerning the Prisoners; in which
They had agreed, that as many Prisoners as They cou'd Collect
this Fall, they intended taking up to Fort Pitt, in order to
Deliver up, but were of opinion They could not be able to Take
578 Sir William Johnson Papers
many up before the Spring, as almost all their People have been,
and still continue to be, very sickly: But were determined to
take all the Prisoners that remained amongst them, this Winter
to Fort Pitt, early in the Spring; and when their People, that
were going up this Fall, were ready to Sett off, They wou'd let
me know, that I might acquaint the Commanding Officer, at Fort
Pitt, when to Expect them there."
A Large Belt.
When He had done, another Chief rose up, & Spoke as
follows.
"That relating to the second Speech I had deliver'd them, the
Man who committed the Murder on the Frontiers of Carolina,
was now dead; and that They hoped their Brethren wou'd not
prosecute the young Boys, that were foolishly led into it by Him, as
He had persuaded them that They were half-breed Cherokees,
and not white men: and They hoped, that next Spring, when
They got to Fort Pitt, They wou'd be able to Satisfy their
Brethren on that Head."
A Large Belt. —
I then informed them, that as there were two Deserters from
the King's Troops, amongst some of their People, I had orders
from the Commanding Officer, to send them to Fort Pitt, and
wou'd pay those Indians They were with, for taking them there. —
The Chiefs then informed me, that the People who had those
Deserters in possession, were already gone a Hunting, so they
cou'd not possibly be taken up this Fall, but that early in the
Spring, They wou'd deliver them up.
Novemr. 1st. This Day arrived 15 Men of the Twightwees
Nation, & held a private Council with the Shawanese. — The
2d., Three Indians of the above Party came and gave me the
following Intelligence.
There having been a private Council held between the Senecaes,
and Delawares, last Spring, it was then agreed upon by Them,
to Strike the English, now living in their Country, and, in
order to get all Nations to Join them in this Attempt, They had
Seven Years" War 579
secretly sent a large Belt with a Bloody Hatchet over the Lakes,
which had now passed thro' the several Nations residing that
way, and was delivered to their Nation by the Chiefs of the
Shawanese, who, They Say, gave them the greatest Charge to
keep this a profound Secret from the Knowledge of any white man,
till They shou'd be able to put this Design in Execution: But as
They have always had a great regard for the English, They
are determined not to receive it, and this was the occasion of their
Coming here at this Time, to return the Shawanese the Belt, and
Hatchet, they had given them on that Head. — And They Say,
that no Nation have taken hold of this Belt, and Hatchet, but
the Senecaes, Delawares, and Shawanese.
They further informed me that, their Nation was going to
join with the Outawas, Chippewas, and Poutawatimies, in order
to Strike the Shawanese, and that the Outawas & Chippewas, had
already killed some of the Shawanese, which they were very
sensible of; but as They were so intent on making war with the
English, They think by involving these Nations in a war with
Them, against the English, that the quarrel between them will
wear off.
They desired me to Inform Mr. Croghan that, some of the
Chiefs of their Nation, wou'd go up in the Spring to Fort Pitt.
The 3d., A Shawanese Indian informed me, that such a Belt
and Hatchet, had come from the Senecaes, and Delawares, to
their Nation, and were now lodged with their principal Warrior.
The 6th., Two Shawanese came, and deliver'd up a white
Prisoner, and told me they were very naked, and requested a
little Clothing; on which, I gave each of them a Suit.
The 7th., — This day I sent four Prisoners, in care of a
Shawanese Chief, to Fort Pitt.
From the 8th., to the 18th, The Indians were employ 'd in
going out to Hunt; and some that went down the River in Canoes,
I was privately informed, were going off to the Southward.
The 19th, The Chiefs, who were going to Fort Pitt, came
& inform'd me, They were then ready, & purpos'd to Set off
next Day.
580 Sir William Johnson Papers
The 23d, Set out for Tuskarawas, & arrived the 26th.; at
wch. place, I was informed the Indians were out a Hunting.
The Beaver, a few days before, had been there, & desired
them to inform me, that He had sent the Message I deliver'd
Him, to Guiyahogo; and their answer was, that the Season was
so far advanced, They could not possible comply with it this
Fall. I was inform'd here by a Trader from Guiyahoga that, some
time before Shingass, & Weindohelas, Delaware Chiefs, had been
there, Stirring up the Warriors of that Town, for war, desiring
them to prepare themselves against next Spring, to Strike the
English.
Novemr. 27th. I Set off from Tuskarawas, & arrived at Fort
Pitt, the 3 R —
FROM JOHN JOSEPH SCHLOSSER
Niagara 9ber 30ih. 1762
Sir
I received [ ] 1 the 20th. rber & 1 7* [
In answer of which I [ ] to tell you, the [
I am heartily Sorry to g[
unvoluntary delay in finish [
was not in my Power to [
from Pittsburgh Since my [
from Mr. McKay2 of the 4th. [
has bought Mr. Clauses Company [
his Politic was to Keep in Play, till he [
1 Because of its mutilated condition, this letter was not printed in
Johnson Papers, 3:951. In Johnson Calendar, p. 152, it is summarized
as "communicating fact of failure to sell commission to Lieut. Carre, ana
arguing that he should not pay interest for farm bought of Johnson from
time of conclusion of bargain." Johnson's reply is in Johnson Papers,
3:981.
2 Cornelius McKay.
Seven Years* War 581
Project, & that was the Reason of his equivocal 1 [etter where]
of I Sent a Copy in me letter of the 1 3 th. 8ber, & his |
-dings alone have hindered me from concluding finally |
I shall Soon have another Man for my Design, hav[
left every thing to the Colonel, but the loss of time [
I consider, particularly when I reflect upon the Paragraph
of your letter, wherein you propose that I should pay |
the Interest, not only for the current, but for the pass [
I can not deny, that it Struck me, when I red it, becau [
had not mentioned it before, & I tought that a very [
Farm could pay the Interest of its Value, & if not, a [
who bought it would be Soon ruined. When you ther [
-Sider, what my Family cost me, & that I must liv [
You will easily conceive, that I can not promise |
Payment of that Interest, but[
-Sible haste to com & take P[ Land
it readily at once. I do not [ ] the Engagement
& as you have acted so [ ] me, Since I had the
honour of your acq [aintance ] Hope that this my Declare-
tion, will not make [ ] off the bargain, but if the
Continuing of [ be contrary to your Interest,
& [ ] of the Plantation, I should
[ ] if you give me timly notice. I
[ ]& be that as it will, I shall
[ ] much Estime & Respect it
] ribe myself
Sir
Your most obliged & most
obedient humble Servant
J. SCHLOSSER1 [ ]ore
Capt: R B:R:A:R:
1 Captain John Joseph Schlosser, a native of Germany, was appointed,
Captain-Lieutenant in the 60th regiment, May 12, 1756, Captain, July
20, 1 758. In 1 759 served in Niagara campaign, and then was put in
command of the fort above the falls, since called "Fort Schlosser."
582 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:1
Niagra Novb'. 30th. 1762
Cap1. Schlossers Letter
FROM JOHN JOHNSTON
Contemporary Copy
Seneca Country Ist. Decern1". 1762.
After my Arrival here, some of the Chiefs came to inform
me of what had happened since my Departure from them, viz1,
the cowardly murder of two white Men, and the narrow Escape
of a third, which they said was unknown to them, and desired me
to make myself easy, there being no Danger near. — The two
Indians who have done the Mischief, live about two Days March
from the Castle, are Senecas, & two Brothers, — their Place
of Residence at a Castle called Connusties where they still are,
not in the least concerned at the Mischief, but rather boasting of
their Manhood. — the Friends of these Villains are very much
troubled at it, and seem to be doubtfull of its occasionning a
Rupture or Variance between their Brethren the English and
them. —
To Sir WM. Johnson Signed —
J: Johnston3
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 A smith in the Seneca country.
Seven Years' War 583
INDIAN PROCEEDINGS
Contemporary Copy1
[November 21 - December 8, 1762]
The Transactions of Lieu*. Guy Johnson, Deputy
Agent for Indian Affairs, at Oneida, and
Onondago, in Novemr. and December, 1 762.
Instructions from the Honble. Sir Wm. Johnson, Baronet, &c,
&c, &c, for Lieu*. Guy Johnson of His Majesty's Independent
Companies, and Deputy Agent for Indian Affairs, attending
the Meeting of the Six Nations at Onondago.
Johnson Hall Nov*. 21*. 1762
Sir,
You are, on your arrival at Oneida, to call the Chiefs together,
and acquaint them with the Cause of your Journey to Onondago:
then to Assure them, that His Majesty has, by His Instructions,
sent his Governors last Spring, forbidden any licenses to be Granted
for the purchase of Indian Lands, except application be made,
and the same approved of by Himself, so that it remains with
themselves, whether They will dispose of any, or not. As this
was the Subject of one of their Belts delivered last Winter, You
will then return Them the Belt, on which they then Spoke
relative thereto : after which you will acquaint them that I expect
They (the Oneidaes) and Tuscaroras, will use all their Influence
at the Onondago Council, to have the two Indians, who committed
the late Murder, given up, and deliver them
A String.
On your arrival at Onondago, you will acquaint Them with the
Cause of your Coming, and that I expect they will, as a proof of
their Detestation of the late Cruelty, deliver up the Murderers to
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. A somewhat differ-
ent account of these proceedings beginning with Nov. 28, is printed in
Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:511-15. The account was inclosed
in Johnson to Amherst, Dec. 18, 1762.
584 Sir William Johnson Papers
Justice, if They are at all desirous of preserving our Friendship,
& the repeated Engagements They have enter'd into with us;
particularly at the Treaty held here last Spring, and since con-
firmed by Deputies from the Six Nations. Deliver them a Belt
thereon.
When that Affair is thoroughly Settled, acquaint Them that
the French, and Spaniards are, from our great Successes, induced
to desire a Peace, which, it is apprehended, will be granted from
His Britannick Majesty's Aversion to Bloodshed.
You will then deliver them the Ll. Governor of Virginia's1
Speech, (or answer to their Message sent him from Lancaster last
August thro' Govr. Hamilton,2 concerning the War between the
Six Nations & Cherokees, and requesting a Passage thro' his
Country, & deliver them a Belt as from Him : and Lastly, you will
take such other measures for obtaining the end of your Journey,
and the Good of His Majesty's Service, as you shall think
necessary.
I am &ca.
WM. Johnson. —
November the 28th. — Left the German Flatts, and on the 30th.
arrived at Oneida.
At a Meeting with the Oneidaes, at the Upper Oneida Castle,
the 30th. day of Novem'. 1 762,
Present,
Lieu1. Guy Johnson, of His Majesty's independ1.
Compy. Depy. Agent for Indian Affairs.
Canadagaio, Canagarunta, & several Mohocks.
Nicolas, a Sachem of Oneidoe, & sev1. Inds. of
that Nation
William Printup, Interpreter. —
Being assembled, L*. Johnson address'd them as follows.
1 Francis Fauquier was lieutenant governor of Virginia from 1 758
until his death, March 3, 1 768.
2 James Hamilton, governor of Pennsylvania.
Seven Years' War 585
Brethren of Oneida, —
The occasion of my calling you together at this Time, is
to acquaint you, that I being appointed a Deputy Agent for
Indn. Affairs, am now sent, by order of Sir William Johnson,
Baronet, to be present at the Meeting, which is to be held at
Onondago, in consequence of the cruel Murder committed by two
Seneca Indians of Kanestio, on two of the English, who were
passing thro' their Country, on their lawful Occasions, As this
piece of unprovoked Barbarity, contrary to the Peace subsisting
between Us, and Indians, & the solemn Promises & Engagements,
They have so repeatedly entred into, is consider'd as the highest
Insult which can be offer'd to the English, I have therefore,
positive orders to Insist upon the Senecaes causing the Murderers to
be deliver'd up, in which I am likewise directed to tell you Sir
William Johnson expects, that both you, & the Tuscaroros, will
readily concur, and Exert Your Selves to the utmost for that
purpose, at the ensuing Meeting.
Brethren ;
In the next place I am to acquaint you, that since the Delivery
of the Belt, which you gave Sir William last Spring, forbidding
the English from settling higher up in the Country, His Majesty's
order hath been transmitted to the Governor of this Province,
Strictly forbidding Him to give any Grants of Indian Lands for
the future, without his own order for that Purpose, and to enquire
into any unjust Grants already made, so that you may be intirely
easy on that Head, as no Patents will, by any means, be given out
hereafter, without the Consent of His Majesty, and your own
Approbation.
Return'd their Road Belt. —
Brethren,
I must recommend it to your most serious Consideration,
to use your Influence in obtaining the Murderers, so that They may
be deliver'd up to Justice; on which Subject, I hope I need say
the less, as 'tis for your own Interest, and the most convincing
586 Sir William Johnson Papers
proof you can give the English of your Inclination to preserve
the Peace subsisting between Us, and of the Aversion which you
have to all such Acts of Hostility.
Gave a String. —
Then Nicolas, a Sachem of Oneida, after repeating what had
been said, and return'd thanks for the same, address'd L*.
Johnson as follows.
Brother;
I have attentively heard what you said to Us, and am glad
to See you employ'd on this necessary Occasion, as We receiv'd
a String of Wampum three days ago from the Onondagoes
to desire our Attendance. We, who are at Home, shall readily
attend, when it will appear who are Friends to the English,
or not, being all very sensible of the Cruelty of the late Action;
which is the cause of your Journey, and that it is no more than
Trifling, to make Engagements one Day, and break them the next;
for which reason, We shall readily concur with you, in your
Demands, at the Meeting.
We return the King many Thanks for his Attention to our
Interest, in sending over the order concerning our Lands to the
Governor; and You may be assured, it will afford Us all the
greatest Satisfaction.
Then Canadagaya, a Sachem of the Mohocks, repeated to
Them the particulars concerning the late Murder, with which
They had not been made acquainted ; and the Meeting broke up.
Decemr. 1 sl. — On Lieu*. Johnson's arrival at Canowaroghere1
an Oneida Castle, the Chief being desirous to be informed of what
He had said at Oneida; after assembling the Chiefs for that
purpose, the Interpreter repeated the same to Them, with which
They seem'd well pleas'd. — Their Chief then informed Lieu*.
1 Now Oneida Castle, south of Oneida, in the town of Vernon, Oneida
County, N. Y. Sir William Johnson built a fort there.
Seven Years War 587
Johnson, and the Mohocks, that the reason They saw so many
of their young People at Home was, on account of their preparing
to go to war against the Southern Indians : that They were there-
fore glad of the arrival of Lieu*. Johnson, and the Mohocks, that
They might know whether They chose they should remain at
Home, till matters were settled at Onondago. Lieu1. Johnson
declared He wou'd submit it entirely to Themselves, to Act therein
as They pleased : but the Mohocks declaring it to be customary, in
such Cases, to Stop Parties, and being desirous so to do, accord-
ingly all adjourned to the House of the Head Warrior, where
Canadagaya, after repeating the cause of his Journey, said, it
was wrong for them to leave their Castle at present with un-
settled minds, and therefore desired They might Stop untill affairs
were determined at the Onondagoe Meeting. — Whereupon all
returned to the Council House, and shortly afterwards received
the Head Warrior's answer that He was resolved to proceed on his
Design ; on which, the meeting broke up.
December the 3d. — At Ganaghsaragey,1 Sequareoere a chief
Sachem of the Castle, came to be acquainted with what had been
Said at Oneida, and the same was accordingly repeated to Him,
on which He said He wou'd set out for Onondago, in company
with the Oneidaes, on their arrival.
4th; — arrived at Onondago. — On the arrival of Lieu1.
Johnson, and the Mohocks, at Onondago, They were met by the
Bunt, chief Sachem, who welcomed them there, and after shewing
Them to their Quarters, He assembled the principal Indians then at
Home, being the Speaker, two other Sachems, and a few others ;
whereupon the Speaker address'd them, and after welcoming them,
and returning Thanks, for their safe arrival, to the Great
Being above, as They were come a long Journey at so bad a
1 Canaseraga, a Tuscarora village, in the town of Sullivan, Madison
County, N. Y.
588 Sir William Johnson Papers
Season, He went thro the Ceremony of plucking the Thorns out
of their Feet, & clearing their Sight, by wiping away the Tears
wch. must have been shed on the late melancholy occasion : which
sad accident, He assured him, gave their Nation the utmost Con-
cern, and that They saw with regret, that notwithstanding They
had been continually endeavouring to preserve Peace, and adhere
to their Treaties, there were still some People, bad enough, to
break thro' these solemn Engagements, & defeat their good
Intentions.
Gave three Strings —
Then Canadagaya, address'd them in answer, and after
repeating what They had Said, as usual He returned the Ceremony
by clearing their Eyes, which He said must be over-cast on such
Occasion; observing that He saw with the utmost Concern, of
what little Importance the several Engagements were thought by
some, since they were repeatedly infringed, so as to create many
fruitless Journeys for the old People.
Three Strings. —
Then the Speaker acquainted them, that the Cayugaes had
sent word they were in readiness to attend the Meeting on the
arrival of the Senecaes, whom They wou'd accompany to Onon-
dago.
Post Meredm. The Bunt, the Speaker, and several others
came to Lieu1. Johnson's Quarters, and had a long conversation
with the Interpreter, and the Mohocks, when They insinuated, that
in case the Murderers were not delivered up to the English,
They would procure them sufficient Satisfaction, by falling upon
the Castle of Konestio; Saying it was hard, that a handful of
People should have it in their Power to bring a Reflection on the
Confederacy. The Interpreter acquainted Them that Lieu*.
Johnson wou'd, as the arrival of the rest was so uncertain, deliver
what He had to Say on Monday, with which They declared them-
selves well pleased.
Seven Years War 589
The 5th. — Sequaresere, and four Sachems of Tuscarora
arrived.
Post meredm.
The Bunt, and the rest being assembled, desired to See Lieu*.
Johnson: on his going to Them, the Bunt acquainted Him,
that his Grandson, who was Sir William's Godchild, had, for the
first time, killed two Beavers; and therefore, according to ancient
Custom, He presented Them to Sir William. — Lieu1. Johnson
thank'd him in the name of Sir William, adding, He wish'd He
might become in time as famous a Hunter, and Warrior, as his
Grandfather.
The Bunt then acquainted Lieu1. Johnson with his Son's having
dream'd that Sir William had, as a token of his Love, made him a
present of a handsome Small Sword. — Lieu1. Johnson answer'd
him, that he wou'd communicate the Dream to Sir William, who,
He made no Doubt, wou'd take the same into Consideration ; and
then parted.
Lieu'. Johnson prepared the Speech which He was to make to
the several Nations to morrow.
At a Meeting held at Onondago, on Monday Decr. the 6th.
1 762, with the Chiefs of the Mohocks, Onondagoes and Tus-
caroras —
Present,
Lieu'. Guy Johnson, Depy. Agent for Indian Affairs.
Mr. Myndert Wemp.
William Printup, Interpreter
The Bunt, Chief Sachem of the Onondagoes.
Teyawarunte, Speaker, with other Sachems.
Canadagaya, Sachem of the Mohocks & Canagarunda
of the Conajoharees, with others.
Sequaresere, chief Sachem of Ganughsaragey, with
four other Sachems of Tuscarora.
590 Sir William Johnson Papers
Teyawarunte returned the two Strings sent by Sir William,
saying, that on receipt of the same, They immediately returned
from Hunting to attend the Meeting at his request.
Then Lieu1. Johnson address'd them.
Brethren of the Nations here assembled;
In pursuance of Sir William Johnson's instructions to me,
as Deputy Agent for Indian Affairs, I came to attend the Meeting,
which He receiv'd advice was to have been imediately held here,
in consequence of the late Murder, committed by two Indians of
Kanestio, on two of His Majesty's Subjects; with the particulars
of which, you are now all acquainted.
As this barbarous Act of Hostility, has been perpetrated
upwards of a Month, I expected, on my arrival, to have found
the Senecaes assembled, especially as they received Notice of my
Journey some time ago; but I am sorry to find that notwithstanding
their Residence is so much nearer to your Council Fire, than mine,
I have now been three Days here without receiving any thing of
their Approach ; I shall therefore deliver you what I have to Say
on this occasion, which I desire you will lay before the other
Nations, as neither my Instructions, nor the Season of the year will
admit of my Tarrying any longer.
Brethren;
I am hopeful that all of you present, and all those who are
desirous to preserve Peace, and keep on good Terms with the
English, must be greatly Concerned at the late publick Breach
thereof, and will take every possible measure for procuring Us
the just Satisfaction We require; I therefore, agreeable to my
orders, insist on the two Murderers being imediately brought down
the Country, and deliver'd up to Justice, that the Law may take
it's course against Them, and thereby deter others from being
guilty of such crimes as claim our highest resentment ; crimes which
have often been committed without our obtaining any Satisfaction,
and which We can no longer pass over, or look upon with Indiffer-
Seven Years War 591
ence. — If any of the greatest Powers in Europe, had offer'd
Us such Treatment, and did not, on our Application for Redress,
imediately deliver up the Criminals, We should, without farther
Delay, take Satisfaction our Selves, nor cou'd We be consider'd
as Infringers of the Peace, for revenging an Injury when We cou'd
not obtain just redress.
I know, that on the arrival of the rest of the Nations, They will
probably talk of the old Agreement ; and that such Affairs shou'd
be made up without farther Blood-shed; but, [/] imagine to
your Selves how very trifling that must appear, and how idle it is
to Suppose that any Sett of People whatsoever, should have it in
their power to Murder their Friends at Discretion, without meeting
with the Punishment due to such Crimes. In vain are all our
Treaties, in vain all the Promises, which you have so repeatedly
made of preserving Peace, whilst every villain is left at Liberty
to infringe the same every day with Impunity ! Your Selves would
too soon find the fatal Effects of such a Toleration, as people
might be thereby induced to return such Treatment on your Selves,
when They found there was no Punishment for the heinous crime
of Murder, so destructive to Peace, and civil Society ! I know like-
wise, that the other Nations may be apt to Say, the Murderers are
fled, or that They cannot find them : But don't suffer your Selves
to be deceived by such flagrant excuses, for the English will not
be amused, or put off with such Stories, for They know that these
Murderers can be imediately apprehended, if the Six Nations are
disposed to Seek for them, and give them up: You have now
therefore a very good Opportunity to shew your Inclination for
Peace, and your resolution to adhere to the Treaties so repeatedly
ratified and Confirmed, and particularly last Winter before Sir
William Johnson; I therefore desire you will not omit acquainting
the rest of the Nations with what I have said upon this Occasion,
& remember that it is expected, and insisted on, that all those who
are willing to preserve peace, and the Friendship of the English,
will exert themselves to the utmost in procuring the Murderers to be
592 Sir William Johnson Papers
imediately deliver'd up, as the only means to prevent Us from
being reduced to the Necessity of taking Satisfaction our Selves.
A Belt of 8 Rows, black,
with a white Row around.
Brethren;
In consequence of the Message, which you sent last Summer
from Lancaster, to the Governor of Virginia, concerning a Passage
thro' his Country, against the Southern Indians, He has transmitted
an Answer in writing, together with a Belt of Wampum, which
I am now to lay before you.
Here explain'd L*. Govr. Fauquier's answer, and
Gave a Belt of 7 Rowes, with a
Road thro' the same.
Brethren;
The Kings of France, and Spain, having suffer'd so severely
by the war, from the great Successes with which the Almighty has
crown'd the just Cause, and superior valour of the English, are, at
length, reduced to Solicit for a Peace, which it is imagined His
Britannick Majesty, from his natural Clemency, will be induced to
Grant them, in which the Security, and Advantage, of His
Majesty's Dominions in North America; and the Safety, welfare,
and Protection of all His faithful Indian Allies will be Strictly
attended to: and you may rest assured, that all those Nations of
Indians, who shall by their Conduct, manifest their regard for
Peace, and their Esteem for His Majesty's Subjects, may rely,
with the utmost Confidence on his Favour, and Protection, in all
their just Rights, and Possessions, agreeable to his Royal Declara-
tion.
Teyawarunte, Speaker of Onondago, answer'd :
Brother;
We have all paid great Attention to what You have now Said,
with which we are very well pleas'd, and heartily agree to every
Thing on our Parts, at the arrival of the rest of the Indians,
towards obtaining your Desire; but as 'tis a weighty affair, and
Seven Years War 593
will, with that concerning the Governor of Virginia, require some
Deliberation, We therefore request you will remain here to mor-
row, untill we shall have prepared a proper answer to your Speech.
To which Lieu1. Johnson answerd. them;
Brethren,
Notwithstanding the lateness of the Season, and the great
Difficulty there will be in travelling with Horses thro' the deep
Snow, I shall, nevertheless, at your request, tarry one Day longer,
when I hope to receive a full, and Satisfactory Answer, to what I
have Said.
Then the Meeting broke up for this Day.
December the 7th. P. M. The Indians assembled :
Present as before.
Teyawarunte, Speaker of Onondago, address'd Lieu1. Johnson
as follows.
Brother;
We have all heard, and carefully attended to your Speech, and
must confess the case is very hard both on your Parts, & our's,
as it cannot but give Us the greatest Uneasiness to Think that a
village like Kanestio, composed of Stragglers from Several
Nations, should have presumed to act a part So contrary to the
Sentiments of the Confederacy. For our Parts, We assure you, we
are determined to do every thing in our Power, for procuring you
the Satisfaction so justly required : But We are very desirous first
to See the upper Nations, to acquaint Them with your Speech, and
be informed what They have done in the Affair; and We Hope
that their present Delay is owing to their being in quest of the
Murderers: therefore We beg you will rest Satisfy'd, untill the
arrival of the upper Nations; and in case the Senecaes do not
imediately comply with your Demand, you may rest assured We
594 Sir William Johnson Papers
shall, without farther Delay, go in search of the Murderers, being
unanimously resolved to pursue them to the most distant Parts,
rather than fail of convincing you, how much We disapprove of
their Barbarity.
Brother;
We are Strangers to the Message, which you mention to have
been sent to the Ll. Governor of Virginia, and Conjecture it must
have been done by a few of our Warriors who attended the Treaty
at Lancaster, and are at present Hunting; So that We cannot
Know the particulars of what They Sent : however, We return the
Ll. Governor of Virginia many Thanks for his kind and friendly
Answer, and beg leave to Assure Him of our Regard for Him,
and the People of his Province.
Brother;
It gives us much Satisfaction to hear than an End is likely to
be put to the war, and that our Brethren the English are likely
to make so good a Peace; and We return our sincere Thanks to
the Great King for the Regard which He shews for our Welfare,
and the Security of our Possessions : and We shall at all times be
glad to Convince Him that We have nothing more at Heart than
the preservation of Peace, and Friendship with all his People in
America.
Brother;
We return Sir William Johnson many Thanks for his appointing
a Smith to reside amongst Us, whom We shall always take
care of, and treat in the most friendly manner; And We beg,
that as We have many old People, & Children whose Parents
cannot go down the Country to procure Necessaries, the Smith may
be allowed to have some Goods for supplying their wants.
To which Lieu'. Johnson answer'd them
Brethren;
I am glad to find you express so much Concern on Account
Seven Years War 595
of the late Murder, as it will be to your Interest to adhere to your
present Resolutions, which only can convince the English of
your Desire to preserve their Friendship. — I must insist you will,
without farther Delay, take such Measures for procuring the
Murderers, as may manifest your Strict Attention to your repeated
Engagements, and your Inclination to bring any Indians to Justice
who shall presume to violate the Peace & Alliance, Subsisting
between the English, and You ; for I must assure you, that nothing
less than the imediate Performance of your Promises will atone
for so barbarous an Insult.
The Season is now too late for the Smith to get up any
Necessaries: however, I shall lay your Request before Sir
William Johnson.
The Indians complained of a Trader with one Arm who lives
at Oswego, that He Sells his Goods very dear, and takes three
large Buckskins for one Blanket.
Lieu1. Johnson told them that on complaint of any Trader's
Extortion, the Commanding Officer of the Garrison, at which He
resided, wou'd procure them Justice : however, He shou'd acquaint
Sir William of their Complaint.
At night a young Seneca Indian arrived Express, with Letters to
Sir Will1". Johnson, from the Smith1 residing in the Senecaes
Country, which Lieu1. Johnson open'd, as judging they contained
some Particulars relative to the Cause of his Journey, in which He
was not mistaken, as it appeared thereby that the Senecaes en-
deavour'd to Excuse themselves from attending the Meeting, and
said the Murderers had absconded. — Lieu1. Johnson having
communicated these Particulars to the Onondagoes &c, They sent
the young Seneca Indian back with a very large Belt of Wampum
to his Nation, requiring them, without any farther Delay, to appre-
hend, and Deliver up the Murderers, as nothing else wou'd satisfy
the rest of the Nations.
1 John Johnston.
596 Sir William Johnson Papers
Decemb'. the 8th. 1 762.
Very early in the morning, the young Seneca Indian returned to
his Nation, and was accompanied by David of Conajoharee,
who was Sent in the Name of the Mohawks, with a Belt of Wam-
pum, to know the Senecaes final Resolutions, and whether They
intended to come down, and do any thing in the Affair, or not. —
He was ordered to Return with an Answer in three Days.
The Bunt, Chief Sachem of Onondago, visited Lieuten1.
Johnson, desired to be remember'd to Sir William, and Said, that
in Consequence of his Message, He had resumed the Management
of the Affairs of his Nation, and hoped to make all matters very
Soon easy, as it was his constant Study to promote peace, and a
good Understanding, betwixt his Nation, and the English.
Lieu1. Johnson answered, that He shou'd not fail delivering
his String to Sir William, and the Message sent therewith : desired
He would exert himself for the public Good, and hoped his
Endeavours might meet with the Success which they merited. —
After which Lieu1. Johnson left Onondago, and proceeded on his
Return to Fort Johnson, where He arrived on the 13th. of
December.
Guy Johnson
GEORGE CROGHAN TO HENRY BOUQUET
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Pitt, Deer. jQfi /762.
Copy./.
Sir,
Mr. Mc. Kee2 is Returned, & some Chiefs of the Shawnese are
on their Way here, with some Prisoners, & hourly Expected here.
Mr. McKee is of opinion that the Shawnese will Deliver up all
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38; inclosed in Amherst
to Johnson, Jan. 1 0, 1 763.
2 Alexander McKee, Croghan's Agent.
Seven Years' War 597
they have next Spring ; he has a much better opinion of them than
the Delawares. Since you Left this I have had an opportunity of
Speaking with Several principal Warriors of the Senecas, Dela-
wares & Shawnese, all which made no Scruple of Confessing the
Belt mentioned in Mr. Mc.Kee's Intelligence, and Say that it's
the Belt Given to the Wawaughtonnes1 last Spring by the French
Officer at the Ilinois. They say, they never Intended to make War
on the English, but Say it's full time for them to prepare to Defend
themselves & their Country from Us, who they are Convinced
Design to make War on them ; They Say, if We did not Intend
that We would not Prohibit the Sale of as much Powder & Lead
as would Supply them to Hunt with, nor Refuse their Warriors
Powder & Lead, & other Necessarys to Carry on the War against
the Southern Indians, their Natural Enemys, which has been an
Old Custom with both English & French, They seem persuaded
that as soon as We get our Prisoners from them, that We will
make War on them, which is Natural Enough, as they are a
People who never Forget, nor Forgive, they think We will Act
on the same Principles, & this I believe is the Reason they have
Detained what Prisoners they have of Ours so long.
It is certain that the Delawares have received a Belt from the
Indians on Susquehannah, & since that has Ordered all their
Warriors to Stay near their Towns to Hunt this Winter, and
Appear more Sulky than Usual to the Traders Residing amongst
them. —
It's Lucky that those Indians, & the Indians over the Lakes,
are not upon good Terms with Each Other at present ; however if
any of them should Break with Us, it must End in a General
Indian War with Us. The Indians are a very Jealous People,
Rash & Inconsiderate, & never Consider Consequences, tho' it must
End in their Ruin ; Their Expectations were great from Us, & their
Poverty & Mercenary Disposition will not Suffer them to Bear a
Dissappointment of that kind. They Interpret the General's
Frugality in Lessening the Expence of Presents in a Design of
1 Wawiaghtonons, Ouiatonons.
598 Sir William Johnson Papers
Revenging what has past, being Conscious they Deserve to be
punished ; How it may End, the Lord Knows ; but I Assure you
I am of opinion it will not be long before We shall have some
Broyles with them, I Have made Use of all the Arguments I was
Master of, and Used all the Influence I had to persuade them that
their Jealousies & Suspicions of Us are Wrong & 111 Grounded;
but it has not made that Impression on their Minds which I could
Wish. There has been a Number of Six Nation Indians here
from the Crow's Town, and made some Speeches, which Capt.
Ecuyer1 will Inclose you. There is Collected at that Town this
Fall Two Hundred Men, all Senecas. I Will gain all the Informa-
tion I can of the Designs of those Indians & Transmit you, which
you will Acquaint the General with.
I Send Mr. Mc.Kee in two Days to the Lower Shawnese, to
Stay the Winter. I Have Wrote Sr. W : J : & inclosed him Mr.
Mc.Kee's Journal, who no doubt will Send a Copy to the General,
I am
Sir,
&ca
Geo: Croghan
Colonel Henry Bouquet
indorsed:
Copy./. Letter from Mr. Croghan
Colonel Bouquet.
Dated Fort Pitt, 1 0,h. Decemr. 1 762
N. B. Copy Enclosed to Sir Wm. Johnson
the 1 0*. Jan'y. 1 763.
1 Captain Simeon Ecuyer of the 60th regiment.
Seven Years' War 599
PETITION OF STOCKBRIDGE INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Stockbridge, Dec. 18, 1762
The Petition of some Stockbridge Indians about
Spencer Town Lands.
To the Honble. Sir William Johnson, Bar*.
His Majesty's Agent for Indian Affairs in
America.
Father ;
We your Children of the Mohheekunnuck Tribe, have many
Troubles and Difficulties, which come upon Us by means of
the Conduct of the King's white Subjects.
We thank the King's Majesty for appointing you to take
care of the Indians: that when We come to you, it is as if We
come to the King Himself. Now Father, we are come to let you
know our Difficulties. Altho' We live one hundred Miles from
you, your Children find you, and don't think it hard to Travel
so far, to tell their Father their Grievances, that He might consider
their Troubles, and tell them what to do. Father, what We
complain to you of at this Time, is relating to our Lands that
lye near Stockbridge, between Stockbridge and Kenderhook.
Six years ago, a great many English People came to Us to enquire
what Indians owned a piece of Wood Land, lying West of Stock-
bridge, and told Us they wanted to Buy that Land to Settle
themselves upon. The Indians agreed, that the Lands the English
wanted for a Town, belonged to Cap*. John Pophenhonnuhwoh,
and Peter Pophquunnaupeet, and the Families to which They
belonged ; they being the Chief Persons of the two Families, were
allowed to make Sale of the Lands, and give a Deed thereof,
which Deed, we lay before our Father, to prove what We Say
to be true. — The English told Us, the Great Court at Boston
had order'd them to Buy it ; — and the Court sent a Man, one
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
600 Sir William Johnson Papers
Mr. Taylor, to See that Justice was done to the Indians. Now
Father, there is fifty Families, or more, of those English that
purchased, and paid Us for that Land, living upon it; but other
People, that have not purchased, Settle Themselves on those
Lands, to the great Disturbance of Those that have honestly
purchased, under a pretence, that it belongs to Colonel Van
Renslaer;1 but the oldest Indians never heard that the Land was
purchased ever of the Indians, only Those that purchased, whose
Names are in this Deed that we now Shew to our Father. Now
Father, the English, that purchased of said John, and Peter, did
not purchase So much as They desired, because the Land further to
the North belonged to the Family of the Naunuhgaunets, who were
not present when said John, and Peter, sold their parts: the
English desiring to Buy six Miles each way, as our Father Sees
in the Deed They did not; & now the Son of the said Naunuh-
gaunet comes to his Father to Complain, that the white People,
who say Col°. Renslaer sends them, come and Settle on your
Childrens Land, and Drive your Children off of their Improve-
ments, which They have lived on for many years passed; and
Those that wou'd honestly Buy that Land, are afraid, because
Those, that have no Right, enter in upon it. Now Father, our
humble Complaint, and Petition to you is, that you wou'd
rectify these unjust Disorders, and Encroachments; and not
Suffer People to Encroach on your Childrens Right, nor on the
Rights of Those who have fairly purchased and paid, till such
Persons can Shew some better Right for their Pretentions: So
your dutiful Children shall ever pray.
his
John <- Pophnehonnuhwoh
mark
Daniel Poochose
Quans )@( his Mark
Ephraim Paumpkhaunkum
Joseph Quinnauquaunt
1 Colonel John Van Rensselaer
Seven Years' War 601
This is to Certify, that we the Subscribers Neshonohock, aged
Eighty years, John Pophnehonnuhwoh, aged Seventy two years,
and David Naunauneekkaunuck aged Seventy years, all of the
Mohheekkunnuck Tribe of Indians, and born and brought up
upon the Lands lying on Hudson's River, and have been ac-
quainted with all the Sales of Lands, that have been made in a
publick, and fair manner, for Sixty years passed by the Indians,
but We never heard of the Lands which said John Pophnehonnuh,
Peter Pophquunnaupeet, Jehoiakim Yokun, and Muttockkaumun,
sold about seven years ago, ever being purchased by any white
Person, or Persons, till the Sale and Purchase above related;
and We declare, no other Purchase has been made, as Witness
our Hands, this 20th day of Decern1. 1 762.
his
Neshenohock X
Mark
his
John Pophnehon <- nuhwoh
Mark
his
David Nau ND nauneekkaunuck
Mark
PETITION OF HOUSATTONOCK INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Decern'. 20ih. 1762.
Petition of the Housatonnock Tribe of Indians, relating to the
New Canaan Land.
To the Honb,e. Sir William Johnson, Bar1. His Majesty's
Agent for Indian Affairs in America,
The humble Complaint and Petition of the Subscribers hereto,
Indians of the Mohheekkunnuck River, or Housatannock Tribe.
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
602 Sir William Johnson Papers
Father ;
Where shou'd we go but unto you for the Redress of our Diffi-
culties, whom the King hath been pleas'd to Constitute our Father?
We come to you now, to lay before our Father some of our
Troubles, relating to our Lands. — About seven years ago,
Jehoiakim Yokun and Muttockkaumun sold a Tract of Land
containing six miles square, lying at the north-west part of Stock-
bridge, and is now by the English called New Canaan: said
Yokun and Muttockkaunun made a fair purchase of said Tract
of Land, of the original Indian Owners, and paid a considerable
Sum for the Same: And when a large Number of English ap-
pear'd to purchase the same Lands, all agreed that the said Yokun
and Muttockkaumun, had good Right to make Sale of the same,
but the said two Indians being since dead, leaving each one a Son,
one of whom now comes to our Father to know what shall be
done; for many other People, that never paid any part of the
Purchase, break in upon said Land, and Settle there, to the great
Damage and Disturbance of those that have honestly purchased,
and paid a large Sum for those Lands. The oldest Indians are
Evidences that said Lands were never Disposed of to the Dutch,
or any Body else of the white People, till the Sale made by
Yokun and Muttockkaumun; and if any body else pretends a
purchase, it is fraudulent: And as those people that Bought it,
have been at great Expence in purchasing, and carrying the matter
to the Governor, and Council, to quiet them in Said Lands, but
have obtained no relief, but have left it undetermined ; Therefore
your Children pray that our Father wou'd so order, that those
people, who have no Right to the Lands sold as aforesaid, might
be ordered to Desist from Settling, till They can Shew some
better Right, and till the King's Pleasure may be known about
the affairs of our Lands, which We pray our Father to take into
Seven Years' War 603
his wise Consideration; and do for his Children as He shall think
best, and your dutiful Children shall ever Pray.
his
John «- Pophnehonnuhwoh.
mark
his
NESHE X NOHOCK.
mark
his
David ND Naunauneekaun.
mark
his
EPHRAIM «$j£ WUHNAUNQUEEK.
mark
Daniel Poochose.
his
Daniel DN Nimham. —
mark
Ephraim Pumpkhaunhum.
FROM JOHN BRADSTREET
Albany 26ih. Dec; 1762
Sir
I have receiv'd your favor of the 1 4th. instant. — The inclos'd
will shew you the Lands bought by the Corporation; The Scor-
ticok Indians reserv'd to themselves the Islands in the Creek,
which the Corporation deny'd and was part of the dispute be-
tween them before the former left the Lands; Still the latter
never ventur'd to Settle those Islands till within these Twelve
Months when they allow'd some Grosebeeks to Settle there ; upon
which the Stockbridge Indians complain'd & the Grosebeeks
gave Sixty pounds to Rob1. Ponticook the long Stockbridge
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
604 Sir William Johnson Papers
Indian for his rights ; These Islands are of value and I hope these
people will not avail themselves of them as they have no right —
If I can be of farther use Command
Sir
Your most obedient
humble servant
JN Bradstreet1
Sir Willm. Johnson Bl.
P.S.
The Lands above Mention'd
are suppos'd to belong to the
Mohawks.
INDORSED :
Albany 26th. December 1 762
Letter from Col1 Bradstreet
concerning some frauds used by the
Corporation of Albany with the
Schachtiticoke Indians
En**, in Vol.2 VII. Page 359 —
FRANCIS FAUQUIER TO CHIEFS OF THE SIX NATIONS
Contemporary Copy3
[Deer. 1762'].
The Honb,e. Francis Fauquier Esqr. his Majesty's Lieutenant
Governor, and Commander in Chief of the Colony and Do-
minion of Virginia.
To the Chiefs of the united Indians of the Six Nations, Greeting.
1 Colonel John Bradstreet of the 60th regiment.
2 Of Indian Records, original volume and page numbering.
3 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
4See Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:513-14, and Johnson to
Fauquier, Dec. 30, 1 762.
Seven Years' War 605
Brethren.
Application has been made to me by Governor Hamilton of
Pensylvania, in your Behalf, concerning a Path thro' the Colony
of Virginia, by which you may March to Strike the Cherokees.
It is necessary you should be informed, that a firm, and lasting
Peace, has lately been made and Concluded, between all His
Majesty's Subjects and the Cherokee Indians; for which Reason,
I wou'd endeavour to Dissuade you from Striking Them, as We,
you, and They are all now become Children of our Common
Father the great King George, and consequently Brethren, and
shou'd live as such: But if this should not prevail on you to lay
down the bloody Hatchet against them; I must let you know,
that it becomes me, to preserve that Honour and Fidelity to all
His Majesty's Allies which I shall always preserve to You, and
therefore must remain quite neuter, and shew no Partiality to
either Side. If after considering this matter, and communicating
it to your Nation, you shou'd be still be1 determined to go to War
with the Cherokees, you shall not be molested in your March,
upon your regulating it according to the Treaty of Lancaster,
formerly made between King George's Subjects, and the Indians
of the Six Nations, and acting conformably thereto: We are
Friends to you, as well as to the Cherokees; and to prevent any
Jealousies, or Disturbances between Us, I shall join with Governor
Hamilton in recommending to you to keep the old War Path
by Shamokin,2 and so by the Western Foot of the Alleghany
Mountains, which is the Shortest and the best way to the Cherokee
Nation: and So Wishing you well, and preserving our Friendship,
and Amity with you, I remain
Yr. Brother and Friend
Fran : Fauquier.
1 Repetition in manuscript.
2 Later Sunbury, Pa.
606 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM THOMAS GAGE
J~i . JLi. wj>.
New York Jan'y. 8ih. 1763.
Sir,
I have only just Time to beg the Favor of you, to get the in-
closed Dispatches forwarded to Niagara & Detroit; Those for
Major Gladwin are Duplicates of Letters Sent by Fort Pitt,
where Aaron the Mohawk, & another Indian were waiting, to
carry them to the Detroit ; from whence they had brought Letters
concerning the overtures made by those savages. I have left all
those matters in Major Gladwin's hands, as He will be best able
to Judge of their Sincerity. And have authorized him to close
with them, till Affairs can be concluded with more Formality.
Major Gladwin tells me that Daniel the Mohawk would make
a Trip for Him this Winter. I am with great Regard
Sir,
Your most obedient
humble Serv*.
Thos. Gage
SR. WM. Johnson Bar*.
INDORSED:2
Janry. 8th. 1 764 —
Genr1. Gages Letter
wlh. Sundry other letters
to be forwarded —
1 In Detroit Public Library, Burton Collection.
2 In Johnson's hand.
Seven Years' War 607
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 10th January 1763
Sir,
The Post having Come in very Late to Day, I have only time
to Acknowledge your Favor, of the 30th December, & to Enclose
You a Copy of a Letter2 which Colonel Bouquet, who is now
here, has Received from Mr. Croghan at Fort Pitt, altho I Can
hardly Doubt but Mr. Croghan will fully Inform you of Every-
thing therein mentioned.
I am,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson
FROM HENDRICK FREY JR.
^i. . Li. O.
[Canajoharry 11 January, 1763]
Honble. Sir
I send you Enclos'd your No[te]
of hand which you was pleas'd to Giv[e]
me in that Affair of Jacob Snells,4 whi[ch]
I intirely forgott, and Neglected, Delivering]
it up to you Sooner, and hope you may
not think anything of it.
Christian Dillenbagh5 in [the]
Last Octobr. court Enter'd a Complaint [against]
1 In Public Record Office. W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Croghan to Bouquet, Dec. 1 0, 1 762.
3 In New York State Library. Because it was in a mutilated condition,
this letter was not printed in Johnson Papers, 4:12.
4 Jacob Snell of Stone Arabia.
5 Christian Dillenbach.
608
Sir William Johnson Papers
me, for not Accepting the Ace1, he Br [ought]
in Against you, when he was by [me ( ?) ]
Summon'd, and Distrain'd for the [
he Justly ow'd you, But was not th [
only Advise'd by them to Apply [
he has Lately done, I told him to [
other Time, and I would tell hi[m
would do therein, he them Ca[lled
Evidences which he had Br [ought
] It off so I Expect he will Again Apply
] gitt an Indictment fill'd against me if
[pos]sible, which I Belive he will perform, as the
[E]vidences he had with him will I Belive not
[s]tick to a trifle in saying in his Favour. —
[I] am with Due Respects. —
Honourable Sir
You most Obed1.
and Verry hble Sarv1.
Hendrick Frey
[Sir Wi]lliam Johnson Bar1
INDORSED:'
Janry. 1 1* 1763 —
Justice Frys Letter
FROM JOHN BRADSTREET
A. L. S.2
Albany 12lh. J any. 1763
Sir
I am favor'd with your letter of the 4th. instant and believe
You will find, that as the Islands are not particularly nam'd in
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In University of Pittsburgh Library.
Seven Years' War 609
the Grant that the people here have no right to them, notwith-
standing the words "including said Creek", and as to length of
time, they will not be able to avail themselves of any advantage
from that they never having taken possession of those Islands
add to this, that it has constantly been understood the Indians did
reserve the Islands to themselves and these people when pushd
hard will not, I believe, have the front to deny it.
I am
Sir
Your Most humble Serv1.
Jn°. Bradstreet
Sir William Johnson Baret.
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MINUTES
Contemporary Cop])1
At a Council held at Fort George in the City of New York,
on Wednesday the 1 9th. Day of January 1 763 —
Present —
His Excellency the Honble. Robert Monckton Captain
General &ca
Mr. Horsmanden2
M'. Watts5
Mr. Chambers3
IVk Walton6
M'. Smith4
Mr. Delancy7
This being the Day appointed for Hearing the Parties claim-
ing under the Conajohare Patent, in Answer to the Complaint
of the Conjahorie Indians respecting the said Patent, William
Livingston Esqr. of Council for the sd. Claimants was called in,
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Daniel Horsmanden.
3 John Chambers.
4 William Smith.
5 John Watts.
6 William Walton.
7 James DeLancey.
610 Sir William Johnson Papers
and being fully heard thereupon, the Board were of Opinion, &
advised his Excellency to transmit to Sir William Johnson a Copy
of the Declaration Signed by the Indians dated in December
last, and now produced to the board on the part of the said
Claimants, as also Copys of two Indian Deeds, or Quit Claims
to Jelles Fonda, and George Klock, one dated 1 2th. of December
1 761 , and the other dated the 23d. of February 1 762, and to
desire Sir William Johnson, would, as soon as conveniently might
be, convene all the Sachems, and Indians of Conjahorie Castle at
such Place, as he shall think fit, and where it is probable the Meet-
ing will be most Complete. And, that he do at such Meeting in
the Presence also of as many of his Majesties Justices of the Peace
of the County of Albany, as can be Assembled, particularly the
Justices before whom the Declaration aforesaid was made, explain
to the Indians so met, the Purport of the sd. Declaration, and
Require them to Signify their Sentiments on the whole Matter
of Complaint in the most Explicit Manner, that the same may be
Reduced to Writing, and transmitted to his Excellency, Signed
by Sir William Johnson, & the said Justices ; And that this Pro-
ceeding be transacted in the most Solemn, Impartial, and Au-
thentick Manner that may be, to afford all the Satisfaction the
Nature of the Subject requires — And to this End, that Sir Wil-
liam do give Publick, and timely Notice of such Meeting that all
Parties interested may Attend if they see fit —
A true Copy Examined by
GW. Banyar D CI Cou.
In consequence of the above Ordr. Sir Wm. Issued the following
Proclamation
Whereas by an Order of his Excellency the Governor, &
Council of the Province of New York bearing Date the 19th.
day of Janry. 1 763. On Hearing the Parties claiming under the
Conjahore Patent, in Answer to the Complaint of the Conjahoree
Indians respecting the Said Patent, Sir William Johnson was
desired as soon as conveniently might be, to convene all the
Sachems, and Indians of the Conjahoree Castle at such Place
Seven Years' War 61 1
as he should think fit, and where it was probable the Meeting
would be most Complete, and that at such Meeting he might in the
Presence of as many of his Majesties Justices of the Peace of
the County of Albany, as could be Assembled, explain to the
Indians so met, the Purport of a Declaration therein Referred
to, & Require them to Signify their Sentiments on the whole
Matter of Complaint, in the most Explicit manner, that the same
might be Reduced to Writing, and Transmitted to his Excell0?.
the Governor, Signed by Sir William Johnson, and the said
Justices, — In Pursuance of which Order Sir William Johnson
hath Appointed Thursday the 1 0th. day of March next ensuing at
the Indian Castle of Conajoharee aforesaid, for Enquiring into
the Premisses, of which time, and Place, all Parties Concerned,
are hereby required to take Notice —
Signed by Order of Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
Witham Marsh Secy.
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall Janrv. 21st. 1763
Sir
1 have the pleasure to find by Your Excellencys favour of the
26th. Ult°. that you approve of Lieu1. Johnsons proceedings2 at
Onondaga, and I hope they will have due weight with the Indians
by produceing the desired effect. — In consequence thereof Some
Senecas arrived here a few days ago to acquaint me that the
Cheifs &ca. of all the Nations to the Ohio were on their way in
order to have a Meeting with me on that Subject, these Messingers
I dismissed with directions to acquaint the rest that they need not
give themselves the trouble of comeing down, as their Journey
would be to no purpose unless they brought ye. Murderers.
" * In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39
2 Printed in Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:511-15; inclosed in
Johnson to Amherst, Dec. 18, 1762, ibid. 7:510-11.
612 Sir William Johnson Papers
I have also been favoured with yr. Excellencys of the 10th.
Ins1, encloseing a Copy of Mr. Croghans letter1 to Col1. Bouquet
relative to Intelligence, of which I have not as yet received any
advice from Mr. Croghan & am therefore apprehensive his letters
have miscarried. As to the particulars therein contained, I have
been a good deal apprehensive for some time past, that the Indians
who were taught to be verry Jealous of Us, and who are apt to
put their own constructions on everry Action are far from being
contented with their present Scituation and imagine we are pre-
paring to Strike a Blow somewhere.
Your Excellencys experience of their disposition will enable
You to Account for any disaffection may be among them, and to
Attribute the cause of their uneasiness not only to the treatment
they formerly met with from the French, but even from our own
People, who more from fear than inclination were verry bountifull
to them, which, as I have formerly observed to Your Excellency
rendered it greatly necessarry that we should still keep up some
Shew of the Same, gradually weaning them from that practice,
till at length they might be brought to depend on themselves, the
Natural Disposition of this People is such, that they will put ye.
worst construction on our withdrawing our hands suddenly, and
place what is no more than the effect of good Oeconomy to com-
tempt, dislike, and an Inclination to reduce them so low as to
facilitate our Designs of extirpateing them, neither will all the
Arguments in the World satisfy them of the contrary, unless
backed with what is considered by them as the only proof of
freindship, which occasionally & Judiciously bestowed on them,
would in a great measure, if not effectually remove all their doubts
& Jealousies.
Nothing is, nor shall be wanting on my part to get to the
bottom of the Affair, and take everry possible Step for convince-
ing them of their mistake, & that their Suspicions are without
foundation. And I could heartily wish Your Excellency would
think it necessary to let those Partys have a few Supplys who
1 Croghan to Bouquet, Dec. 1 0, 1 762, ante p. 596.
Seven Years* War 613
pass by Fort Pitt, the disapointment which Severall of them have
mett with in being oblidged to turn back from thence for want
thereof, has I am certain contributed not a little to their present
Uneasiness in that Quarter.
The Six Nations in General are I beleive more concerned at
the late Murder than they were ever before, and will I hope take
everry Step in their power for obtaining the Criminals, in which
I hope they may meet with no disapointment. —
I have the Honour to be with utmost
Respect Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst.
indorsed :
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
Johnsonhall 21st. Janry. 1763.
Recd. & Ansd. 3 1 st. Ditto
FROM WILLIAM DARLINGTON
[New York 3ht Jan. 1763]
]
Y'l ]
Verry [ ]
WM. Da[rlington]
1 Because the body of the letter was destroyed by fire, it was not printed
in Johnson Papers, 4:35. The Johnson Calendar, p. 158, supplies
the date and tells that it dealt with "letters forwarded to England by
Duke of Cumberland, Capt. John Goodrich, news of peace, and theft
of the Albany mail on the route to New York." Postscript above.
614 Sir William Johnson Papers
P.S. The Albany Post was Robd
of the mail in Coming from Albany
while he was at an Inn on the Road
Saturday last —
ADDRESSED :
To
William Johnson Bart
at
Johnson Hall
INDORSED:1
Ja[
Mr. Darling [tons letter]
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
A. L. S.2
New York 31st. Jcmry> 1763.
Sir,
I am this moment favored with your Letter of the 2 1 st. Instant,3
which was opened with the Rest of the Letters from Albany, the
Mail having been Stole4 from the Rider, & Since found near this
Place.
Nothing can be better Judged than your Dismissing the Indian
Messengers with Directions to Acquaint their Brethren that with-
out they Deliver up the Murderers, they must not Expect to be
Treated with; And I Flatter Myself they will Seriously Con-
sider of the Advice you Sent them, & Convince Us by their Actions
that they are heartily Sorry for the late Murder, by giving up the
Criminals.
Our Behaviour to them, while they Continue Peaceable, must
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9, No. 1 75.
3 Ante, p. 61 1.
4 See William Darlington to Johnson, Jan. 31, 1763, ante p. 613.
Seven Years' War 615
Shew them how Groundless their Fears are of our intending any
Blow against them ; and Now that a Peace seems near at Hand,
they can have Nothing to Mind but their Hunting, so that they
may very well provide for themselves, as the Trade will, I doubt
not, Continue to be Free, & will be Uninterrupted. —
I am with great Regard,
Sir,
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant.
Jeff. Amherst
Sir William Johnson, Bar'.
INDORSED:1
New York 3 1 *. JanT. 1 763
Letter from Sr. Jeff. Amherst
FROM JOHN DUNCAN
[Albany, Feb. /, 1763]
[ 1
[
Express was gone [
No delay I Send it now [
as if with the said Express.
I rec'd a letter Yesterday from Mr. Corry3 [which I
inclose, and if the Parragraph he mentions, Meet your [
& the other Magistrates here will certainly put [
will wait a few lines from you on that he [ad
in it. As for my own part, I shal [1
doing my duty, but more So, when Appro [
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 Because of its mutilated condition, this letter was not printed in John-
son Papers, 4:37. Date is supplied by Johnson Calendar, p. 158,
3 William Corry.
616 Sir William Johnson Papers
I beg you'll Excuse this freedo [m
of all My Family to you & yours. I a[m]
Sir
Your most [
Humble Serv1.
Jo [hn Duncan]
INDORSED:1
Feb*. 1 st. 1 763 —
Mr. Duncans Letter
abl. Waggon Wheels —
FROM JOHN MACOMB
/l. 1—,. vj>.
[Albany, Feb. 3, 1763]
I 1
In a let[ter ]
were to write the Att?. General respecting Mr. Wade3
dr[ea]did the Consequence of the Governors resentment against
and Advised / shoud write some of my friends
in N. York how the a [ ] Shoud represent it to him. — but what
will my report Avail in [ ] to yours. I did not go to Mr.
Waids3 room on my own Account [ ] any Doors, nor
do any other Act or thing, only Vindicate [ ]
expressions of you, therefore thinks it's hard the Co[
fall on me. I am well perswaided the le[
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 Because of its mutliated condition, this letter was not printed in John-
son Papers, 4:37. Date and signature supplied from Johnson Calendar,
p. 158, where the contents were described as "craving intercession with
Governor in regard to trouble in which the writer is involved by resenting
warmly Mr. Wade's unbecoming words about Sir William."
3 Captain Ferrall Wade.
Seven Years' W ax 617
the Governor will Settle the whole afair, which I hope y [
the letter —
I hope you'l Approve of this m [
[ ] regard
Sir
Your M [ ]
[John Macomb]1
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall Febry. 4th. 1763
Sir
I am to return Your Excellency many thanks for the agreable
news of a Cessation of Arms, which you were pleased to acquaint
me with, as also to congratulate your Excellency on the advan-
tagious Terms as mentioned in ye. Public Prints.
The Annexing Canada to his Majestys Possessions in North
America, as it is so Essential to the Peace & Strengthening of
the Colonies, cannot fail of affording the highest Satisfaction to
all his Majestys Subjects, who are sensible of the great Importance
of Your Excellencys Acquisitions.
I shall accordingly make all ye. Indians Acquainted therewith,
which I flatter myself will afford a verry great pleasure to those
who are well disposed.
I have the honour to be with the
greatest respect, Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency Sir Jeffery Amherst
K*. of the Bath, &ca &ca
1 Merchant and justice of peace in Albany.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
618 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JOHN JOHNSTON1
A. L.2
SinachaisFeby. 17 1763 —
Sir
I Received Yours Dated 9th of Jan?, a Month after Date in
Which I find that You have Satisfied the Barer to the Contrary
of my Writeing any thing to the Disadvantage of them or their
Castle — for Which I am Very Glad, I haveing a Trouble-
some Winter of it on that head, as for the Mohawk he is hear in
this Castle Since the first of the Snow — after his first Arrival
hear I Dispatch1, him of to You With Letters to Aqquant You
of Particulars Worthy of Moment but he Returnd. as Soon Al-
ledging it to be on Account of the Snow; but his Excuse Was
f rivoulous —
This is the fourth Letter I have Sent You but the Letter I
Sent by the Mohawk I Believe is Miscaryd. Through his Means.
As to Delivering the Murderer up it is My Oppinion they Will not
(So far as I Can See through the Sentiments of Their Minds)
but are Very Much Troubled how or in What Manner they
Shall Make Matters up for my part I have Urged. the Affair on
for their Delivering them up at Serval Diffamt times Assuring
them that Without it Was Impossable in my Oppinion to Make up
Matters With their Brethern the English — I further told them
it Was Very hard they should through away their Lands; Old
Men ; and Children Away for the Sake of two Such Villians.
As to their Behavour in Genarl hear it is Considerable Well
Considering What News. and Rumour5, is Stiring in 7 Six Na-
tions — This place is a Center place and Rendevoures for all
News from Albany to Ohio You May Expect a few out of this
Nation to Treat With You On the Subject that Was Deliverd
out of Your Belt Sent through the Six Nations, I Conclude heare
Sir William
1 A smith in the Seneca country.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
Indian Uprising 619
ADDRESSED :
On His Majestys Service
To
The Hon°.
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
At Johnson Hall
[QDWC]
INDORSED:
Febx. 1 7*. 1 763 —
John Johnston's Lre
from ye. Senecaes Country
abo1. ye. temper of those
Indians in respect to the
Murder of 2 white men
by two Conestie Indians
TO GOLDSBROW BANYAR
Extract1
Johnson Hall, February 25, 1763
It is by such low, villainous falsehoods and artifices2 that they
have carried on the farce so far, and thereby imposed on the
governor and council. By Heavens, were you and the people
sensible of the villainy used in this dispute by the opposite party,
from the highest to the lowest, you and they would be astonished
1 Printed in William L. Stone, Life and Times of Sir William Johnson,
2 : 1 78n. The original of this letter was burned ; its contents were sum-
marized in Johnson Calendar, p. 160: ". . . denouncing charge that one
of the Indians who make a declaration before him on Livingston patent
dispute was a woman and characterizing Capt. Rutherford's profession
to have accommodated the dispute with the Indians, intimating that the
French will not long respect terms of peace, asking how to proceed to get
his lands into a manor and giving an enthusiastic invitation to visit Johnson
Hall."
2 The practices of George Klock in getting Canajoharies drunk to
sign deeds.
620 Sir William Johnson Papers
beyond measure. In short I have not words nor knowledge of
villainous ideas sufficient to expose their roguery.
FROM THE STOCKBRIDGE INDIANS
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from the Stockbridge Indians to Sir William
Johnson dated at
Stockbridge, March 8lh. 1763.
Father. —
We your Children at Stockbridge by the Assistance of Mr.
Woodbridge,2 are likely to settle with the Province of the Massa-
chusetts Bay, respecting our Lands in said Province ; Mr. Wood-
bridge having been all Winter at the General Court, has near
accomplished the Matter; so that, with Respect to our Claims in
this Province, we hope we shall not need to trouble our Father
any more ; but as to our Lands within the Province of New York,
they Remain as they were. — A Town called Nobletown, an-
other called Spencertown, and a third called New Canaan, which
we Informed you that we Sold, many Familys, above one Hun-
dred have Settled by virtue of our Sale. —
We Pray our Father to take Care of us, respecting our Lands
in the Province of New York — for much of our Land is taken,
which, we, your Children, are sure, has not been Purchased. —
We are your Dutiful Children &c —
Signed Ben : SACHEM — for the whole Tribe
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Timothy Woodbridge.
Indian Uprising 621
AFFIDAVIT OF JACOB KLOCK
Contemporary Copy1
Affidavit2 of Cap1. Jacob Klock3 relative to G: Klocks4 Pro-
ceedings concerning the Lands at Conjaharee —
This Day appeared before me Sir William Johnson Bar1, one
of his Majesties Council of the Province of New York, Cap1.
Jacob Klock of Conajoharee, in the County of Albany, who being
duely Sworn on the holy Evangelists, Deposeth, and Sayeth that
his Brother Hanjost Klock (who lives in his House, and was
frequently called upon to be an Evidence to a Deed which George
Klock4 their Brother prevailed upon the Indians to Execute)
Declared to the Depon1. that the Indians were Drunk at the time
of Signing said Deed — That the Depon1. often heard the Indians
during this Winter Say, they would not part with, or Sell that
Lands which Klock bought of Livingston5 upon any Account. —
Nevertheless the Depon*. understands, that since [that] time,
several Indians by their getting Liquor from George Klock, and
Receiving Promises of more, have been Induced to Sign said
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6, p. 364. This page
in the book of Indian Records of Sir William Johnson bears no date.
The preceding page, however, and the following page bear the date 1 763.
Since the contents of the book are chronologically arranged, it seems prob-
able that the date of this manuscript is 1 763. The preceding page (363)
contains the minutes of a council in New York City which directed that
Johnson be requested to call a meeting of the Indians in order that the
dispute over lands should be laid before them. The following page in the
Indian Records (365) and subsequent pages contain the minutes of the
meeting with the Indians held on March 1 0, 1 763. From its position in
the book, therefore, it appears probable that Klock's affidavit was made
between the date when Sir William Johnson received the order in council
of Jan. 19, 1763, and the date when the Indians met with Johnson on
March 10, 1763.
2 See Johnson Calendar, p. 155.
3 Brother of George (Ury) Klock and Hanjost Klock.
4 George (Ury) Klock.
5 Philip Livingston.
622 Sir William Johnson Papers
Deed. — That said George Klock has been Tampering the
whole Fall, & Winter, in Order to Prevail on them to Agree to
Sign Said Deed, and that as he the Depon'. lives in the Neighbour-
hood of his Brother sd. George Klock, he has been frequently
troubled, and Disturbed, day & night, and Obliged to get up
at all Hours of the night to let in the Drunken Indians coming
from sd. G. Klock's House to the House of the Depon1. — And
further the Depon1. Sayth not —
TO ARENT BRADT
Df.1
Johnson Hall March 18* 1763
Sir
The Multiplicity of business in which I have been Engaged, &
the Indians having been Abroad prevented me hitherto from
having the Meeting mentioned in Yours of October last, but as
they [Indians]2 are now all at home, & the Sledding may shortly
be at an End I have appointed Wednesday the 23d. Instant at
Fort Johnson to Enquire into the Indns. Claims [concerning]
to the Lands along the River from Schenectady Lowland to
Towerjone,3 at which time and place I should be glad you would
attend with your Deed and any other papers necessary to
support your [Claimed] Possessions, as I have likewise given
notice to the [Indians] Mohocks Who will not fail attending on
that day when I hope You may make your rights appear clear
to them
I am Sir
Yr. most &c
MR. Arent Bradt
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. Copy also in Indian
Records, Vol. 6.
2 Words italicized and in brackets crossed out in manuscript.
3 See Beauchamp, Aboriginal Place Names of New York, p. 200.
Towerjoene (To-war-jo-en-ny), name for Lewis Creek, west boundary
of Schenectady in 1 729.
Indian Uprising 623
INDORSED:
Johnson Hall March 18* 1 763. —
Letter to Mr. Arent Bradt of
Schenectady, appoints the 23d inst
to Enquire into his Rights to the Lands
above Schenectady Lowland, claimed
by the Mohocks —
Entd. in Vol : VIII Indn Recds —
Page 378 —
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
A. L. S.1
Johnson Hall March 18lK 1763
Sir
Since the receipt of your Excellencys Favour of the 3 1 sl. Janr?.2
nothing material occurred until three Days ago, when all the
Cheifs of Onondaga, Severall Senecas, Oneidaes, & Mohawks
amounting in the whole to 60 Men Arrived here, and Yesterday
had a conferrence with me.
At opening the same, the Speaker of Onondaga, Acquainted
me with the Steps they had taken in consequence of the Meeting
at their Castle, that imediately after the Same, they sent a Mes-
singer to Kanestio, to require the Murderers, but that they had
absconded and gone to the Ohio, their Uncle informing the
Messinger that he had banished them from his House, and said
he hoped the Six Nations would not blame him, as he had given
them up, and would have nothing further to do with them.
I told them that this was no satisfaction to us, neither should
we be contented with anything but their delivering up the Mur-
derers, that they had been already made acquainted with my
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ante p. 614.
624 Sir William Johnson Papers
Sentiments on their Old Agreement, and should they persist in
adhereing to so unreasonable & dangerous a Custom, it must in-
evitably produce a Quarrel between Us, the consequence of wh.
might be fatal to them, — that we should have great reason to
doubt their Sincerity if the Murderers were not imediately given
up, and that I had even received some intelligence concerning
the bad endeavours of Some Indians. — I then acquainted them
with some Intelligence I received the other Day from Mr. Croghan,
concerning the Examination of a Shawaneese Cheif lately taken,
who acknowledged that a War Belt was sent last Spring thro
their Towns to the Seneca's Country from the Cherokees, & the
French at the Illinois, but that the same was not unanimously
accepted of. Altho all the Indian Nations were as he said be-
come verry Jealous of the English, who had erected so many
Posts in their Country, but were not so generous to them as the
French, and particularly gave them no Amunition, which was the
cheif cause of their Jealousy & Discontent. — the Senecas on
hearing this, declared they were not acquainted with the Belt,
& that as to ye. Murder it gave them as much concern as it did Us,
and they were at a loss what to do, as it was not their Custom to
punish People haveing no laws for that purpose, besides it was
contrary to the Old Agreement first entered into with Us. —
After which, the Onondaga Speaker said "that the same had
been discoursed between the Senecas & them at Onondaga, where-
upon they had agreed to come hither, & consult me thereon, at
the same time appointing a Meeting of all the Confederacy to be
held at Chenussio, as soon as they returned with my farther Sen-
timents on the Affair, at wh. Meeting, they were determined to
act with unanimity & resolution for the makeing Us easy. — I
answered them that the Old Agreement tho' we should attend to
it, meant only the passing over of any Accidents which arose
from a Quarrel, that the case now was quite different, that the
only expedient to preserve Peace and Order was by the punish-
ment of Offenders, and that they had already heard my Senti-
ments, in which I still persisted expecting they would at the
ensueing Meeting procure us that Satisfaction which You require,
Indian Uprising 625
& which is so essential to our mutual welfare and repose". —
they promised to do what was desired, and in the meantime
begged we would have an Eye to the old Agreement and take no
rash measures until we heard from them. —
this, Sir, was the purport of the Meeting, and from what I
could perceive, they appear under great uneasiness, it not being
their custom to bring an Offender to punishment in cool Blood,
for offences done even to themselves, they are entirely at a loss
what Step to take, on the one side, desirous to give us Satisfaction,
and on the other apprehensive of a Quarrel amongst themselves.
However I hope they will be more unanimous at the intended
Meeting, and that they may there determine on apprehending, &
bringing the Offenders to Justice. — I cannot omit Mentioning
to your Excellency that as provisions cannot be had at this place,
am greatly at a loss Whenever Indians come, wh. is pritty frequent,
if there was some Pork sent hither to serve such occasions, I should
be able to procure the other Articles necessary therewith.
I have the honour to be with the
greatest Respect & Regard
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
INDORSED :
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
Fort Johnson 18*. March 1763.
Recd. 2d. April.
Ansd. 3d. Ditto.
626 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN COUNCIL
Contemporary Copy1
[Johnson Hall, March 16-19, 1763]
At a Meeting Held at Johnson Hall with the Chiefs of Onon-
daga, the Mohocks, Senecas, & Oneidas March 16th. 1763.
Present — Sir William Johnson Bar1.
Cap1. Daniel Clausl Depy. Agents
Lieu1. Guy Johnson J for Indian Affairs
William Printup. — Interpreter
Abraham, with sev1. Sachems of the Mohocks, &
Conjahores —
The Bunt
Tiaguawanda
Sequienguiraghta
Sowistowane
Teyawarunte 1 Sachems of
Esquisageghte [ Onondaga
Onoghsisa
Onoghsockte
Chief-Warriors
of Seneca
Conoghquieson, Saghnagarate — i Sachems of Oneida
with 1 6 Senecas, 1 4 Onondagas &ca.
Teyawarunte Speaker of Onondaga, condoled with Sir William
Johnson, and the Mohocks (on the Death of 2 alias Abraham
of Conajohare two days before) with several Belts, and Strings. —
Sir William then returned the Ceremony of Condolence. —
After which Teyawarunte began with Repeating what Sir
William had done, and the Messages sent by him to them on
account of the Murder committed last Fall in the Senecas Country,
but lest the same might not have been regularly, or fully explained,
he Requested the same might be Repeated. — Upon which Sir
William repeated to them the Purport of the last Belt he had
sent on that head. — that he had told their Messengers [that]
the coming down of their People without the Murderer would
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 A blank in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 627
be to no purpose, at the same time telling them he could not
be mistaken in any of their Transactions, as he always committed
the same to Writing, and was sorry to find their Messengers could
not be better depended upon. — Whereupon Tayawarunte Pro-
ceeded. —
Brother. —
In Consequence of your Message desiring us to search for
the Murderers, we immediately sent one of our People called
Sogigewona to the Castle of Kanestio. on his Arrival, he found
only one of them at Home, to whom he first applied for the Goods
which he had taken from the Persons murdered, to which the
Murderer replied, "Ay, are you come for that. — for my part,
I have not yet made the Hearts of the five Nations ake sufficiently,
but I shall go, and kill the Smith at the Seneca Country," Where-
upon Sogigewona told him he should not be allowed to do so,
for if he did, it would prove the Destruction of the whole
Confederacy. — At the same time the Uncle of the Murderer
came into the House, and Seconded what Sogigewona had Said,
Adding, that he had frequently Advised him (the Murderer)
to hearty Repentance, but all to no purpose, for which reason he
now banished him his House, telling him as he talked so boldly,
he should go down to Sir William Johnson, and declare his
Sentiments there, — and Addressing Sogigewona, told him, that
he begged the Five Nations might not throw the Blame on himself,
as he had done with his Nephew, & gave him up to their Pleasure;
whereupon Sogigervona returned, and reported the same to us,
on which, without Delay we set out in Order to come hither, to
Acquaint you with what we had hitherto done in the Affair. —
Brother, —
I had forgot to mention to you, that on the Murderer's Uncle
telling him (his Nephew, one of the Murderers) to leave his
House, he accordingly did so, and Retired to his wicked Partners
at the Ohio, which gives us all great uneasiness, as we apprehend
he may do Mischief. —
To which Sir William Answered —
628 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren —
I am glad to find, that, in Consequence of my Message sent
to you at Onondaga, you immediately sent out a Messenger to
Chanestio;1 but I should have been much better pleased, had you
sent half a Dozen thither, which might have prevented his being
Insulted, as in fact he was, and thereby enabled you to bring the
Murderer down, and thereby make Matters easy. — As this is
not the Case, I have only to tell you, that what you have hitherto
done, is of no Consequence, and cannot prove the least Satisfaction
to us, Irritated as we justly are, by so unprecedented a Murder,
committed without any Provocation, in the Heart of your
Country, by Persons perfectly sober; for which Reason, you
cannot, as was mentioned to you at Onondaga, quote the Old
Agreement, or make any Apologies for the same; since you must
be Convinced that such Excuses must appear at best but Frivolous,
or that you must be Ignorant of your own Interest, should you
desire to Abide by any Agreement, which permits us both to
Commit Murder at Discretion, since you must be Convinced, you
would first have Reason to Repent such an unnatural Indul-
gence. — You mention that the Murderer is with his Companion
at the Ohio — so that you may easily apprehend them both, —
for we well know that they cannot escape you, if you chuse to
Seize them, which I expect you will do immediately. — Consider
then your own Welfare, Exert yourselves as become faithful
Allies, by bringing in the Murderer to Justice, without which every
thing else must prove ineffectual towards satisfying us on that
Head, otherwise we shall have the greatest Reason to doubt your
Sincerity, and the Promises you have made in the several Meetings,
lately held with me, particularly, that of last Spring, which now
lyes on the Table before you. — for be assured that the General
will never pass over such an Insult, as he is determined at all
Events to have Satisfaction and bring such Peace-breakers to
Punishment. —
If you are as sincere as I believed you to be in your Promises,
1 Canestio (Kanestio).
Indian Uprising 629
you will Save the General the trouble of apprehending him, since
you can do it your Selves, otherwise he will certainly think you
have forgot your Engagements, and that there is some Mischief in
your Heads, of which I have Received Advices from all Parts
for some time past, and amongst other particulars, that a Belt
had been again sent to Stir up the Indians against their Brethren
the English. — I now desire to know whether there is any Truth
therein, or not, and at the same time, think it my Duty to Advise
you, to give us no Reason to doubt the Sincerity of your Engage-
ments, and to bring all those Over, who may be falling from the
Covenant Chain, by your Admonitions, as you cannot but know
that any such foolish Attempts, though they can hurt us but very
little, will certainly Induce the General to take such Steps, as
must be productive of a Quarrel between us, the Consequences of
which may be very fatal. — A R It
Then Teyaxvarunte after Repeating what Sir William had Said,
told him [Sir William] that they never heard of any late Com-
motions, except from the Indian who Returned from his House;
Whereupon Sir William acquainted them with his Intelligence
after which T ayarearunte proceeded.
Brother. —
The affair you speak of, is certainly of great Importance,
and may end fatally, as you may see by the Treatment which
Decarihogha, the Head of all the Nations, whose Name sake
was the first who made an Agreement with the English, has lately
received on account thereof, and the same may go still further,
which gives us the utmost Uneasiness, as we know not what to do
therein, and as we had Renewed, and Brightened the Covenant
Chain, and made every thing easy, this Accident affords us as
much Uneasiness as it can you, and after mature Deliberation we
are of Opinion, as it is not in our Power to deliver up the Mur-
derers, having no Laws for that Purpose, that the same should
be amicably Settled according to the antient Custom of our Fore-
fathers, and Yours, who first Entred into that Agreement together
630 Sir William Johnson Papers
in such Cases, which they have since always abided by, as our
Forefathers were of Opinion, that it was better to Accomodate
Matters already bad enough, than to shed further Blood there-
on. —
Then the Onondaga Speaker continued on behalf of his Nation
Brother —
The Discourse which I have Repeated, was what passed be-
tween the Senecas, and us at Onondaga, on which our People
resolved to come to you hither, and hear your Sentiments thereon,
which having now heard, I shall immediately return home, and
from thence to Chenussio, where we had, before our coming down
Appointed a Meeting to be held on our Return from here, whither
I shall take with me the Oneidas, and Tuscaroras, and desire
you will Appoint a proper Person of the Mohocks to Attend the
same. — At this Meeting, be assured, we shall act with Firmness,
and that nothing shall be wanting on my part for making you
easy. — I thought nothing on the Hardships of my Journey
hither at this Season, as I think only on what must be done in the
Affair. — and further tell you that in consequence of your Belt
delivered to us last Spring, we had Cautioned our Young People
against committing any further Depredations; since which they
have behaved very orderly, and the Officer at Otswego had often
since invited them thither. —
A Belt 1 1 Rows. —
To which Sir William answered them, — Returned his Bell
Brethren —
I well know the Customs of your Forefathers, and I look
upon that Agreement to have been made when times were very
different, and when you did not Act as you now do. — We have
Writings, and know the Transactions of them times very well.
At the same time you must be convinced, that such a Covenant
would in time require to be altered, as it would be productive of
many Quarrels — neither did the old Agreem1. mean any more,
Indian Uprising 631
than that in Case an Indian, and white Man Quarrelled, and one
fell, the other was not to be Punished, which is not the present
Case. —
We dont want the Blood of any one, merely out of a Thirst
of Revenge. No. — we only want to Preserve the Peace, which
we can never do, if either of us may Murder at Discretion. —
If People are not Punished for Capital Offences, they will
often Repeat them; but if proper Examples are made of the
Guilty, it will put a Stop to the Committing of Crimes, which it is
your Interest, more than Ours to consider, as you see in the Treat-
ment, which De Carioga1 met with, (and which may not Stop
there) the fatal Consequences of passing over such Offences. — for
you must certainly Allow, that in Case you are Licensed to Murder,
our People will Claim the same Priviledge, and, not only that,
but we must be Obliged to stop up the Road of Peace, and with-
draw all our Traders, and Smiths from amongst you. —
I have formerly given you my Advice on this head, & having
again repeated my Sentiments thereon, I have only to say that I
Expect you will Discharge the Part of faithful Allies at Chenussio
Meeting by Procuring us that Satisfaction which is so essential
to our mutual Welfare, and Tranquility. —
Gave a large Belt. —
Brethren. —
I am glad to hear that you have attended to my Advice in
cautioning your young People against Committing any further
Depredations on the Inhabitants, or at the Posts, which I hope
may have the desired Effect, and you may be Assured the Com-
manding Officer at Oswego, or any of the Garrisons will be
always glad to See any Indians, who shall continue to Deport
themselves, as faithful Friends to the English, from which I hope
you will never be so far misled as to deviate, but that you will
stifle any future Attempts which may be made by silly People to
Infringe the solemn Agreement Subsisting between us. —
After which Teyawarunte Addressed Sir William
1 Decarihoga, a chief of Canajoharie, titular head of the Mohawks.
632 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother.
There was formerly a Tree planted, the Branches of which
Extended East, West, North, and South, and the Roots whereof
have since Overspread the whole Country, whereby we are all
United in Strict Alliance together, — and now Brother, as you
know these things, and have the Advantage of committing them to
Writing which we cannot do, we beg you will take Pity on us,
and make some Allowance for our Understandings. —
It has been always our Custom, and that of our Forefathers,
& yours to make up such Affairs, and to forget them; neither do
we know any Instances to the Contrary, for which Reason, it
would be very hard for us to break so Old a Custom, and we
therefore beg the General will Consider the same, and do nothing
rashly therein. — We likewise beg you will Consider, that our
Alliance with the Indians is now very Extensive, and should
the Indians find us Deviating from our Antient Agreements, and
Spilling fresh Blood, what Opinion must they Entertain concerning
us. — We now conclude with earnestly entreating you would
use your Interest in our Behalf and persuade the General not
to Undertake anything rashly until the Meeting at Chenussio shall
be over, at which time we shall all Exert ourselves to the utmost
of our Power in everything necessary for the publick good. —
Gave a very large black Belt.
Friday March the 1 8th. — The Onondagas all Assembled,
and addressed Sir William as follows —
xSpeaker
Pres1. as before —
Brother —
We are now come to Acquaint you that we Purpose taking
leave of you tomorrow, and to Assure you that our Thoughts,
and Endeavors shall be totally Employed towards bringing the
unhappy Affair (which has now brought us here) to such a
Conclusion as will be agreeable to you, & all our Brethren. —
1 Blank in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 633
Brother —
As we told Yesterday that a Meeting was to be held, shortly
after our Return, at Chenussio, where I, who am Speaker, am
appointed to attend, and then desired you would send such of
the Mohocks as you Judged proper, thither, we Expect by the
Mohocks to hear from you, the Generals Disposition, and Opinion
on what we have said yesterday, and we all hope that it may
be favorable. —
Brother —
We are also to acquaint you that it was with the greatest
difficulty, we two Old People now present (who always have
the greatest share in the Management of all Matters relative to
the six Nations) came here at this Severe Season : And least we
might not be able to wait on you with the Result of the Chenussio
Meeting, which we are determined to do, if in our Power, we now
Acquaint you that we have Appointed Tiaguande, Telvas-
queighte, Conajohare, Quanatghgusse, Taristagheghte, Onatch,
of our several Tribes, to transact Business in our Meetings, and
Councils, who in case of our not being able to come, shall (some
of them) wait on you, and Report the whole Proceedings of that
Meeting faithfully to you. —
Brother —
We thought necessary to inform you of this our Appointment
of the abovementioned Persons, that when they come to you on
Business, you may know they Act by the Approbation, and
Appointment of our Nation. —
Brother —
We have had for some time past a great Inclination to send
two of our Principal Warriors to England, in order to See his
Majesty King George, and in hopes to be able to talk with him,
and Settle Matters on such a Footing as might tend to the Interest,
and Welfare of the Confederacy, and enable our Nations, at
634 Sir William Johnson Papers
least to rest in Peace for the time to come. — this, Brother, we
now mention to you, and shall be directed therein by you. —
Sir William Answered them. —
Brethren. —
I am glad to hear that you are determined to Exert yourselves
in bringing the unhappy Affair (which has now brought you
hither) to such an Issue as may prove Satisfactory to your Injured
Brethren, by doing which you cannot fail of Serving your Selves,
and convincing us of your Sincerity, and Attachment, which I
again most strongly Recommend to you. — I must at the same
time say, I don't think your Meeting at Chenussio so proper, as at
Onondaga, which is the Old Place of Meeting. —
Brethren —
If I have an answer from the General on what you yesterday
Said, before the Mohawks (who are to Attend the Meeting at
Chenussio) set off for that Place, I shall by them acquaint you of
his Disposition, and Approbation thereof —
Brethren. —
I am sensible of the Fatigue, and Hardship your old People
must have undergone in coming here at this Season, which induced
me in a great Measure to send you that Message by our Brother
Kanadisorha the Seneca, last Month. — I am much Pleased
with the Appointment of the Persons you have mentioned to me
for your Assistants, as I personally know them, and their Ability,
and Inclination to Serve their Country, for which Reason, you may
rest assured, I shall, (whenever sent on Business to me) always pay
a proper Regard to them. At the same time I heartily wish that
your Old People may long continue able to transact Business with
them. —
Indian Uprising 635
Brethren —
As to sending some of your People to England, it is a thing
in my Opinion which Requires some Consideration, as well as
Preparation; wherefore I cannot at present clearly give you my
Sentiments thereon, but shall consider the Affair thoroughly,
and then give you my Opinion thereupon. —
Saturday March the 1 9th. — All the Onondagas assembled
and addressed Sir William as follows. — Pres1. as before
First — They asked Sir William whether Canaghquieso had told
him what the Cayugas Resolutions were ; — on Sir Wm\
answering in the negative, Teyawarunte the Speaker Proceeded,
and acquainted him therewith, viz1, that the Cayugas were deter-
mined not to interfere in the Settlement of the Murder, as it was
Committed by the Senecas, but strongly Recommended it to the
three Elder Branches of the Confederacy to do their Utmost
towards accomodating the affair, but should they fail in their At-
tempt, that then, they, the Cayugas, with their four Brothers, who
were the youngest Branch of the Confederacy, would endeavor
to prevail on the Senecas to give Sir William Satisfaction, being
allways desirous of keeping Peace, and a good Understanding
with their Brethren. — That they the Cayugas, desired us to
assure Sir William of their firm Resolution to hold fast by the
Covenant Chain, and to Observe the Engagements entred into
with their Brethren, and to Convince him that they had no Evil
Thoughts or Designs agsf. you, their young Men are for the most
Part going to War against the Chero^ees in a little time. —
Brother —
We of Onondaga have now only to Observe to you that we can-
not help thinking that the Oneidas, who are the Elder Branch of
the Confederacy act wrong, in not advising the Cayugas to Stay at
home, and assist in bringing this unhappy Affair to a good End,
before they should think of going to War against their Enemies. —
This much we thought proper to Acquaint you with, and to
let you know that we intend on our going to the Meeting at
636 Sir William Johnson Papers
Chenussio to ask the Chiefs of the Cayugas to Accompany us
thither, and assist at the same. —
Sir William thanked them for acquainting him with the
above Resolution of the younger Branch of their Confederacy,
and then delivered them a white Belt to be given to the Cayugas,
desiring them from him to Attend the Meeting to be held at
Chenussio, and that they woud thereat use their utmost Influence,
and Endeavors, jointly with the rest, to bring that unhappy affair
of the late Murder, to a happy Issue. —
A Belt. —
FROM THOMAS COTTRELL
Cop])1
Fort Schyler y. 20h March 1763.
Sir,
I hope you will excuse my freedom in troubleing you with
this. I understand that there is a parsel of Land Laying at Fort
Schuyler which was formerly the wright of Lieut. Smith Decest.
But know I understand It Lays at the Disposhall of Sir William,
if so Should Be Glad to treat for said Commodoty, as it is A
Grate pitty so much Good Land Should Lay wild and oncolti-
vated, I Should esteem it as A vary Grate favour if Sir William
would Be Plesed to Signify his pleasure, in parting with it, or Not,
and the price that will Be holden on the Land. I am &c &c
To Sir William Jonson, Baran Knight
Tho. Cottrell, Lieut
Rhode Island Company
1 In Oneida Historical Society, Utica, N. Y. The original was destroyed
by fire.
Indian Uprising
637
MEMORANDUM OF OFFICER S PAY
A. D. S.1
March 24,
To Capt Lotteradges2 pay from ye. 1 st. August 1 762 to
March 1763 Inclusive at 10s f Day Str«. is [in]
CWy. £201.. 15.
George Croghan from 1 st. Decbr. 1 762
to 24th. March Inclusive. 1 1 4 days
Cap1. Claus from R 8K 1762 to
the 24th. March Inclusive. 1 75 days
at 18. 9% f is
Lieu'. Johnson3 from 10th. 8br. 1762
24*. March.. 18, 91/2 f Day —
107.. 2
1763
the 24th.
, 8 5/7
3
2 Interp". from 1st. 7br. 1762 to
to 24th. March 1 763 Inclusive ....
to Jn. B. De Couagne from 1 st. 9br. 1 762
to 24th. March Inclusive at £ 1 2 1$ Mth.
Clark & Store keeper from 1 st.
Novbr. 1 762 to ye. 24th. March Inclusive
Store House Rent at Schenectady &c
the Mohawks from 1 st. Novbr. 1 762
to 24th. March Inclusive at £ 1 00 f Ann
To my own Sallary from ye. 24th.
7br. 1 762 to 24 March Inclusive
164.. 8.. 3 3/4
155..-.. 4 3/4
90. .10. .10
57.. 9.. 6
15. .18.. 8
39. .18.. 9
514.. 5.. 9 4/7
£1346.. 10.. 0 1/2
1In Canadian Archives, Miscellaneous Papers, 1714-1790, Claus
Papers, W. Vol. 14.
2 Captain John Lottridge.
3 Lieutenant Guy Johnson.
638 Sir William Johnson Papers
Mr. Montours1 pay from 29th. 8br. 1 762
to ye. 24th. March Inclusive at £ 50 St8. $ Annm.
Comes to £ 34 . . 4 . . 5
brought over from ye. other Side £ 1 346 ..10.. 0 l/£
£1380.. 14.. 5 1/2
Calculation of the Officers Pay in my Department Made out
from the last Payment to 24th. March 1 763
WM. Johnson
INHABITANTS OF SCHENECTADY TO THE MOHAWKS
Contemporary Copy
Answer of the Inhabitants of Schenectady to the
Mohawks in regard to their Claim to Lands there
March 25*, 1763 —
Brethren. —
We heard that you have laid Claim to the Lands which our
Forefathers had bought from yours, & paid for; whereupon we
have sent seven of our Men to you with the Deeds of Sale from
your Forefathers to ours, in order to Remove the bad thoughts
you Entertain of us. they are Returned, and say, they have had
a Conference with you, and Shewed you your Forefathers Deeds
and Receipts Signed by them to ours. — We are very much
Surprized to hear you Say, that our Forefathers had only Hired
Our Town Lands from yours, and not bought them, — And we
must tell you, Brethren, that we never heard from any of our
Oldest Men, nor from any of the Oldest Men of the Mohawks
living, that it was ever Said by them, or any of them, that our
Town Lands or any Part thereof were Hired from the Mohawks,
or that any Rent, or [that any Rent]3 Hire, was ever demanded,
1 Henry Montour. This entry is on the reverse of the sheet, so the
previous total was brought forward. Johnson was careless of his figures
and the computation is inaccurate.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 639
or Expected by any of the Old Mohawks living 'till now of late,
and therefore do Expect, as you have seen your Forefather's
Deeds of Sale, and Receipts which were Recorded, and Shewn
to you by our Deputies Signed with your Customary Marks,
and by the Principal Men at that Time, in the Presence of Sir
William Johnson, that it will appear, and Convince you all, that
our Town Lands were never Hired, as you Say, but honestly
bought, and paid for, as above mentioned, which Declaration we
all Sign, and also for the whole Town of Schenectady, and desire
Sir William Johnson to acquaint you thereof. —
Addressed to Sir WlLLIAM JOHNSON.
FROM DAVID VAN DER HEYDEN
L.S.1
Albany. 26th March 1763.
Sir
Yours of 23rd Instant2 have recd. & according to request now
forward you the Nails & Glue ordered, hope they may please, at
present their are no Shap3 at market, but will purchase the first
favourable oppertunity 'till then we must have Patience shall be
glad to Receive your further Commands & Am
Sir
Your most obd. & h Servant
David Van Der Heyden4
To Sir William Johnson Baronet
150 lb Nails a 1/3 ..9.7.6
6 lb London
glue a 2/ . . . 1 2 —
£9.19.6
1 In New York Public Library.
2 Letter not found.
3 Perhaps intended for "schap" meaning shovel.
4 A merchant of Albany ; made Lieutenant Colonel in Albany county
militia, Feb. 1 763.
640 Sir William Johnson Papers
ADDRESSED :
To
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
Johnson hall
INDORSED
.1
Albx. 26*. March 1 763
letter from Lieu'. Coll.
Van Derheyden
EDWARD JENKINS TO HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy
Extract of a Letter from Lieu1. Jenkins,3 to Major Gladwin4
dated, Ouiatinon5 28ih. March 1763
Sir
The Bearer arrived from the Post last Sunday, with two more
Deserters and his Wife. They have not heard yet below of the
Cessation of Arms, and I am acquainted by Monsr. La Rond
that we have attacked (or at least blocked up some place near)
the Mississippi indeed I don't rightly understand him as he has
an Odd way of talking but Capf. Campbell0 will understand
him better. Mr. Crawford7 acquainted me this Morning that
the Canadians that are here are eternally tilling lies to the Indians
and tells me likewise that the Interperter and one Lapointe told
the Indians a few days ago that we should All be prisoners in a
short time (shewing them when the Corn was about a foot high)
that there was a great Army to come from the Mississippi, and
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
3 Lieutenant Edward Jenkins of the 60th regiment.
4 Major Henry Gladwin of the 80th regiment, commandant at Detroit.
5 Near the site of Lafayette, Indiana.
6 Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment.
7 Hugh Crawford, trader.
Indian Uprising 641
that they were to have a great number of Indians with them,
therefore advised them not to help us. That they would soon
take Detroit and these small Posts, and then they would take
Quebec, Montreal, &c and go into our Country. This I am in-
formed they tell them from one end of the year to the other, with
a great deal more that I Can't remember. I am convinced that
while they are permitted to trade here that the Indians here never
will be in our Interest, for although our Merchants sells them a
Stroud for three Beaver they will rather give Six to a French-
Man. It is needless inquiring into the affair as the French has so
much Influance over them, that they will deny what they sayd;
for the other day I had the express before me for saying we should
all be Fighting by and by but could make nothing of it as the
Indians were afraid to own it before them, altho' the Indian that
heard them talk of it stood to it —
Yours &c &c
Sign'd Edwd Jenkins
TO JOHN TABOR KEMPE
Johnson Hall March 30th. 1763
Sir/
I have received your favour of the 1 4th. Ins1, and also received
ye. Declaration from Mr. Banyar which I explained at ye. Meet-
ing on ye. 10th., a Copy of wh. Meeting2 I transmitted to the
Governour, & therefore presume You have before now seen the
Same. —
You may find therin that the Inds. appear determined not to
give up the Land, & convinced that the Steps taken to obtain
the same were verry unfair. I could wish that such proceedings
did not still continue particularly ye. low machinations of Klock
who did all in his power to render the Meeting abortive by in-
1 In Massachusetts Historical Society.
2 See Johnson Papers, 4:50-61, for record of this meeting.
642 Sir William Johnson Papers
veigleing Sevr1. of the Inck to his House previous thereto, &
making them so drunk as not only to incapacitate them for business
but occasioned them to Quarrel with some of the Sachims who
were sent to call them from Klocks to a Meeting at their Castle,
in which dispute, Klock Joined the Drunken Indians & prevented
their going at that time. The Parties concerned are even con-
vinced of, & acknowledge his dirty proceedings which serves
only to create farther animosities amongst the Indians themselves,
as well as with many of the Inhabitants wh. may prove of bad
consequence. —
Since the Meeting I find he has persuaded A few foolish Young
Indians to go to New York, for what purpose neither the Indians
nor I can conceive, as they are not of the least consequence,
neither can they by any Sett of People be supposed to have any
thing to do in the Disposal of Lands. — One thing worthy to be
observed and which escaped my Observation, till the Inds. lately
remarked it on looking on the old Deed, is, that not one of the
four Indians who signed the same, were at the time of signing
either Sachims or principall Men of Conajohare. — I should
be glad You would inform me which You think the principal
charge to try Klock upon at the next Circuit, not haveing any of
ye. Affidats. by me, haveing sent the Coppies to the Govr., & the
Originals to Mr. Corry1 who I suppose transmitted them to
You. —
I believe there are many more Witnesses may be procured, in
the mean time if you will please to fill up Subpoenas for those
you know of, and send me a few Blank ones, I shall without
delay get them properly served, So as that all Necessary Evidences
may be secured against the Trial. —
if it is necessarry to employ other Lawyers for the Tryal of
William Corry of Albany.
Indian Uprising
643
Klock, I should be glad you would engage them, & let me know
who they are. —
I am with great Esteem
Sir
Your Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
John T. Kempe Esqr.
INDORSED:
March 30* 1 763
Letter from Sr. Wm. Johnson
Connojohair Indians
— George Klock —
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
A. D.1
Johnson Hall, Saturday April 2d. 1763 —
Severall Sachims of the Tuscaroras, Oneidas & Skanihadigh-
roonees mett here, and Spoke as follows after performing the
Ceremony of Condolence — Gaghswangarorus begun —
Present
Isaack Kariwhagh-
arron
Teiagharogh'toei
Siadagarady
Brother Warraghiiyagey —
The Oneida Sachims last Summer in their return from Otsen-
ingo2 desired Us now here present to Settle at Ganeghrvaghtai,
and not to remove from thence on any Ace"., as it was midway
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Johnson's hand. A
copy of this conference is also found in the Canadian Archives, Ottawa,
Canada, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Chenango, near Binghamton, N. Y.
Guy Johnson Esqr.
Depy. Ag«.
c/i
S
o
a
<J1
Gaghswangarous -
Taawaghsachquo
644 Sir William Johnson Papers
between Oneida, Onaghquago & Otseningo, so that any news or
Message sent from either of the latter places may be forwarded
by us to the Six Nations, and also any from ye. Six Nations,
comeing to us may be forwarded to them. —
We of the new Settlement on due consideration thought proper
to come and acquaint You our Brother (who has ye. Manage-
ment of Indian Affairs) of our Settleing at Sd. place and of our
determination to remain there as long as we live, or as long as we
can remain undisturbed.
A Belt —
Brother
We have now made a Road from our New Settlement to ye.
fire place of ye. Six Nations, & their Allies & in makeing it, we
have avoided all Mountains Swamps & [ ] and carried it
Straight & even, fitt for You to travel, or Send Messages to Us
whenever necessary.
A large Road Belt —
Brother
We of this new Settlement assure You that as We are deter-
mined to live in freindship with our Brethren the English, Shall
commit no Violence on ye. Property of any of our Brethren
knowingly, and as we now tell You we have made a good road
from our Settlement to your House We beg that if any of our
People should happen by means of liquor or otherwise to act
wrong, by takeing away a horse or any thing else, that you will
imediately send us notice thereof in a freindly Manner, and it
shall be directly delivered up to Your Order, or the owner, this
is ye. resolution of all our Cheifs whom You are acquainted with, &
who are now all present as ye. want of provision when comeing on
business, has often oblidged the Indians to kill something belong-
ing to ye. Inhabitants for their support, in order to avoid ye. like
for the future we beg You will lodge an order wth. Harkemer1 at
ye. German Flatts where we come out, and another at Stoneraby
1 Nicholas Herkimer.
Indian Uprising 645
to supply us with prov*. to carry us ye. length of yr. House & ye.
same wn. returning, this we desire only wn. comeing on business
A Belt
Brother
We are also to acquaint You that ye. Oneidas have appointed
Taawaghsachquo a Sachim of ye. Wolfe Tribe to assist us in ye.
Management of our affairs, so that at any time, Should there be
business to do, we shall not be at a loss for a Sufficient Number
of Sachims to constitute a Council. — and hope for yr. approba-
tion thereof. —
A String —
Brother
We have finished what we have to Say to You on business,
and have now only to lay before You our Wants, & poverty, as
new Settlers we are almost destitute of everry necessary for car-
rying on our business — therefore earnestly entreat You to take
pity of us, and afford us Some Assistance, such as a little Cloath-
ing to cover our nakedness, also some Amunition to keep our
Arms from further rust, as well as for some Hoes for the Women
to till the Ground, and an order to get our Axes Mended, being
almost reduced to ye. necessity of burning down Trees, (as our
Forefathers used to do) for fuel. — As it was often told Us,
that whoever had anything to Say or lay heavy on their Minds,
they should come to ye. Person who was appointed by the Great
King to manage Indn. affairs, and lay their Greiviance before him,
& they Should be considered. We have therefore now done so &
beg You will take the Same into consideration
A Bunch of Wampum
Sachims Names present —
Isack Kariwhagarron
Teighiaghton
Siadagarady \ Sachiri
Gaghswangaroris
Taawaghsachquo
646 Sir William Johnson Papers
Sir Wm. Johnsons Answer
Bretheren of ye. Oneidaes, Tuscaroras & Nanticokes
As it is now Peace I have no Objection to yr. Making a Settle-
ment at Ganeghsawaghtri where You say the Oneidas fixed You.
[and] I shall always be glad to hear You do well there; and
as it is a Centrical place to wh. often news may Come, I must
recommend it to You the Sachims, to be verry diligent & carefull
in forwarding whatever Messages or news may concern ye. Con-
federacy or yr. Brethren ye. English, and yl. faithfully without
any Alteration as has been too often done by ye. Six Nations to
their own prejudice, & the great confusion of business.
A Belt —
Brethren
Your opening a Road hither from Your Settlement was a
prudent & necessary Step, I hope You will be carefull to keep it
in better repair than [jiour] Bretheren the Senecas [£eeps] do
theirs, being now rendered impassable by [n>ff/i] the Dead Bodys
of their Bretheren ye. English lying in it — As long as You
are careful, [and] in keeping it good, I shall make use of it
whenever necessary, and therefore will contribute towds. the
keeping it a good plain & Streight Road. —
A large Road Belt —
Bretheren
it gives me pleasure to hear the freindly & good promises you
yesterday made, & I must desire You will strictly keep up to
them, which, with a Union among Yourselves in all yr. Councils,
& Actions will be the surest means of contributing to your happi-
ness, & making yu. respectable. — Should any of yr. People
thro drunkeness or otherwise commit any violence by Stealth &ca.
on ye. Persons or properties of any of his Majestys Subjects. I
expect & desire that You who are the Cheifs, will, on being made
acquainted therewith, Imediately cause restitution to be made
to the injured, wh. may prevent Quarrels or disputes ariseing be-
tween Us. it is in yr. power, (by constantly admonishing your
young People to a good behaviour) to hinder any Misunder-
Indian Uprising 647
standings happening, or Quarrels between You & Us. As long
as You act agreable to the promises Yesterday made to me, I shall
order necessary provisions for Such of Your Cheifs as may from
time to time come here on business at the German Flatts & Stone-
raby, & the same returning.
A Belt —
Bretheren
as the Oneidas have recommended our Brother Taawagh-
sachquo of ye. Wolfe Tribe as a proper Person to assist in yr.
Councils, I approve of their Choice, and have only to recommend
it to him to act up to the trust they repose in him, wh. will be for
his own Credit, & the good of yr. Settlement, in wh. case I shall
always regard him as a Sachim.
A String of Wampum
Bretheren
Your poverty wh. you so much complain of, must I imagine
be owing to Indolence, if so, You are not to be pittyed. if other-
wise I am Sorry for it, and will Give You some Amunition,
whereby You may releive yr. Wants haveing nothing now to do,
wh. can hinder yr. Hunting, and as You are distressed for ye.
want of some necessary Utensils, for the carrying on yr. new
Settlement, I shall order You such as are most requisite, & also
yr. Axes to be Mended, after wh. I hope you will be able to help
yr selves & live comfortably, wh. will give me pleasure to hear.
A Bunch of Wampum
They returned Sir Wm. thanks for what he had Said to them,
and the wholesome advice given them as also for the Amunition,
Cash & Orders to Smiths for mending & Makeing them Some
Utensils — then Said they would part ye. next Day and so the
Meeting broke up —
648 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:
April 1\ 1 763
Minutes of a
Meeting wth. the
Tuscaroras &
Oneidaes, abo1.
ye. removal of the
first to a new
Settlement &ca.
Entd. in Vol.
the 8th. Indn. Records
Page 382 —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 3d- April 1763
Sir,
Your Letter of the 18th. March,2 Acquainting me of your
having had a Conference with some Chiefs of the Onondagas,
Senecas, &ca, relative to the late Murder, came to my hands last
Night.
You are so well Acquainted with my thoughts on that matter,
that I need not here Repeat what I have so often mentioned in
regard to bringing the Murderers to Condign Punishment: The
Indians, I See, Continue their Old Way of Reasoning, which is
by no means Satisfactory to Us, And while I have the Honor to
Command, shall not Avail. At present, it is doing them too much
Honor to Lay before them, Our Suspicions of their Plots, &ca;
which Indeed are Meer Bugbears, & can never have any other
Effect than that of hurting themselves by makeing Us Treat
them as Enemies and Withdraw Our Friendship from them; the
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 623.
Indian Uprising 649
Greatest Misfortune that can befall them. I shall however be
very glad to find, that at their Meeting, which you Say they Intend
to have at Chenussio, they Consider Seriously of the Advice you
gave them & take the proper Steps for Delivering up the Mur-
derers. —
As the War, in all probability, is now Over, I Cannot See
any Reason for Supplying the Indians with Provisions ; for I am
Convinced they will never think of providing for their Families
by hunting, if they can Support them by begging Provisions
from Us. —
I am, with great Regard.
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
Contemporary Copy1
Thursday April the 7th. 1763 Johnson Hall —
Karaghijagigo a Principal Warrior of Onondaga arrived here,
and acquainted Sir William that the Sachems had got Home
from the late Meeting here, eight days before he left his Castle,
and that he was only four Days on his way hither. — that he
passed this Morning two Seneca Indians, who told him they were
sent before to acquaint Sir William, that a considerable number
of the Chief Men of Chenussio were on their way hither, on ac-
count of the Murder committed last Fall in the Seneca Country. —
He then Addressed Sir William in the Name of all the War-
riors of his Nation, "first returning thanks to him for his Care
in settling all matters relative to the Six Nations, and their Allies
last Spring, in so good a manner, thereby Removing, and Settling
all the Uneasinesses of the Minds of the Warriors, who from that
time until the unlucky Murder was Committed in the Senecas
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
650 Sir William Johnson Papers
Country, Hunted with Pleasure, and were very happy. — then
Added that he had it in Charge to Assure Sir William, that his
Nations was so much Concerned for the Murder Committed, that
they would use all their Interest, and Influence with the rest of
the Confederacy to make that Satisfaction we Required. — He
then produced two War Belts, and after Repeating what Sir
William had said to him, and the rest of the Warriors last Spring,
when the general Meeting was at his House, at which time, he
give him, and them a fine War Belt to replace any of their Na-
tion, who died, or were killed lately, he told him that one of them
which he now Shewed, was from himself, in order to Bind the
Party as usual on such Occasions, and the other was from Bunt,
Chief of Onondaga, — after shewing them, he Assured Sir Wil-
liam that the Warriors of his Nation were all at his Command,
and would follow such a Road as He thought proper, either by
Fort Pitt, or the back Road, and would set off with a large Body,
being to be Joined by the Cayugas, Senecas, Ganaghsarageys &ca.
Sir William, after returning him, and his Nation thanks for
their good Intentions, delivered him a Belt, by which he was to
acquaint his Nation of the Design of the New England People,
or the Connecticuit Company, and desired that they would Con-
sider of it, and settle the matter in the most amicable manner
possible, so that the Peace now so firmly established between them
their Allies, and us, might not be interrupted. —
A Belt
Karraghijagio assured Sir William that he would faithfully
deliver his Message to his Nation, and would contribute all in his
Power to prevent a Breach with his Brethren, but added that he
was very Sorry to hear, on his way hither so many Complaints
from the two Mohock Castles, of the Injuries they have, and do
suffer from their Brethren the white People, who they say are
endeavoring to dispossess them of their Lands. — this he said,
he was apprehensive would make his Nation, and the rest of the
Confederacy very uneasy, and Jealous of us, and Confirm them
in the Opinion they have for some time past Entertained of us. —
Indian Uprising 651
Sir William took a great deal of Pains to Convince him, that,
but a few worthless People had Occasioned the Disputes with
the Mohocks, and Conajoharees, who he Expected, would not
be allowed to wrong them, but on the contrary would be Obliged
to do them all the Justice, the Nature of their Case Required,
as the affair was now before the Governor & his Council for their
Consideration —
Then took leave, and said he would set out for Onondaga —
The Mohock Embassadors set off the day before for the
Onondaga Meeting. —
The Express which Sir Wm. had sent to Governor Fitch1 of
Connecticuit, with the Mohock's Speech, and their Belt of
Wampum, together with his Letter to the Governor, returned
the 1 7th Ins1., and brought him an Answer from him, the Purport
of which he sent by some Mohocks to the Six Nations then in
Council at Onondaga. —
TO GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy2
Johnson Hall, Apr1 8ih. 1763.
Sir
I Received both your Letters of the 5th. of Febr?., as likewise
the Treaty at Lancaster from Mr. Peters3 some time ago, at which
I can't think much material was transacted, — I also received
Mr.Hutchin's Journal4 togethr. with the Intelligence, and In-
structions you mention, but have never got Welle's5 Deposition,
1 Governor Thomas Fitch.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
3 The Rev. Richard Peters, secretary of the Pennsylvania provincial
council. The two letters of February 5 have not been found.
4 Ante p. 521.
5 John Welles.
652 Sir William Johnson Papers
which I should gladly have, in order to send it to England with
the rest of the Proceedings. — I greatly approve of Coll. Boquets
Behavior to the Commissioners, as I cannot but think such Pro-
ceedings, as interfering in the Indian Department; so that in case
of being Repeated, I would have you Represent to the Com-
manding Officer at Fort Pitt, that your Residence there as Deputy
Agent is to no purpose, if the same is tolerated for the future. —
I am clear in it that too much Oconomy ought not to be thought
of as yet with the Indians, if we Expect to keep them in Temper,
& maintain our Out Posts : — but it is not in my power to Con-
vince the General thereof. —
The Indians hereabouts are very uneasy at the Intention of the
New Englanders to settle immediately in a Body on the Susqua-
hannah, of which I was informed by two Deputies, who lately
came to me, Commissioned from the rest; and as I am very ap-
prehensive of the Consequences of such a Settlement against their
Will, I have wrote to the General, Governor Hamilton,1 and the
Governor of Connecticuit, my Sentiments thereupon. —
I am hopefull that as the Mississipi is to be our Boundary to-
wards the French, by which the Illinois &c become subject to
great Brittain, our troublesome Enemies the French, will not find
it easily in their Power to Continue their former Practice of creat-
ing Disturbances by stirring up the Indians against us. — and I
cannot but think, the Residence of a Person at the Illenois, as
very necessary to conciliate the Affections of the Neighbouring
Indians —
I am &c
W:J
1 Governor James Hamilton of Pennsylvania.
Indian Uprising 653
RECEIPT OF ALEXANDER WALLACE
New York 12lh April 1763
Received from Sir Wm Johnston by Mr Darlington2 Twenty
Pounds York Money in full of all Acco,s.
£20
For Mr. Hugh Wallace
Alexander Wallace
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall April 14*. 1763 —
Sir
Since my letter of the 1 8th. Ult°.4 which I find was long by the
way, I have had the honour of writeing and transmitting my
Acctts. to Your Excellency which I hope arrived safe. —
With regard to the delivering up of the Murderers, I beleive
the Affair will one way or the other be determined at the Chenussio
Meeting, whither the Mohawks of both Castles have some days
ago sent Severall Deputys, who I am convinced will leave nothing
undone to obtain the End of their Journey. —
I never apprehended the Indians could do more than what I
have often mentioned them capable of perform'g on the Frontiers
& Out Posts, and I am certain that with regard thereto, I have
not represented them more formidable than they may appear
to be.
1 Not printed in Johnson Papers, 4:86, where it was noted as destroyed
by fire.
2 William Darlington.
3 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
4 Ante p. 623.
654 Sir William Johnson Papers
What I mentioned concerning provisions to Your Excellency,
was only that I might have some lodged here to give them on
necessary occasions; and I must beg leave to observe that whilst
I have the Superintendancy of Inds. Affairs, there will be always
an unavoidable resort of them here, most of whom, come on busi-
ness & often Stay five Six Days & a Week, dureing which time
as they must be supported I cannot do without provisions, as I
can neither Supply them myself nor procure it in the Neighbour-
hood without the greatest trouble. I must therefore request Your
Excellency will please to take the same into Consideration.
I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst Knight
of the Bath —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Cop])1
New York, I6ih. April 1763
Sir,
On Examining your Abstract I Find there are Several Mistakes
in Calculating the Pay Due to the Officers under you, which
Cannot be Rectifyed without Writing it over again, & therefore
I Return it to You that you may See those Mistakes, and I must
Beg you will be so good to have them put to Rights: As there
are no Vouchers produced for Your Disbursements, it is the more
Necessary that the Abstract should be Quite Clear, and I should
be glad you would Order One to be made out agreable to the
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Indian Uprising 655
Enclosed Form, then if the Calculation of the Number of Days
is Right, and the Sums due to Each Officer, there can be no
Mistakes, but Everything will Appear Quite Exact.
I am,
Sir,
&ca
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
FROM JAMES HAMILTON
Philadelphia April 16th 1763
Dear Sir
I had the favour of your letter of the 30th. of last Month,2
acquainting me of the proceedings of Coll Dyer3 and Mr Wood-
bridge4 on behalf of the Connecticut Susquehanna Company, and
of the steps taken by them to induce you to countenance their
scheme and afford them your assistance, or at least not to oppose
their designs, all which You had refused to comply with. — by
which prudent and disinterested conduct, You have, in my opinion,
conferr'd a very great obligation on all his Majesty's Subjects
in this part of the World, and, in particular, upon the Proprietors,
& people of this Province, on whose behalf I beg leave to return
you my hearty thanks; being firmly persuaded that any attempt
to make a forcible Settlement on those favourite Lands, or indeed
any other Lands of the six Nations, would not only be the greatest
breach of faith on the part of the English, but would be productive
of the mischiefs, and attended with the fatal consequences, you
so justly represented to the former Commissioners, as well as to
those who attended you last.
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 In Johnson Papers, 4:74-75.
3 Eliphalet Dyer.
4 Timothy Woodbridge.
656 Sir William Johnson Papers
I am, now, in hopes that, nothing of this sort will be attempted
for the future : as, by the last packet, I had the pleasure to receive
letters from Mr. Penn, as I doubt not You also did from the
Lords of Trade, acquainting you, that in consequence of your
representations upon this subject, Orders have been such by his
Majesty to Sir Jeffry Amherst and Governor Fitch to remove the
Connecticut people from the Rivers Delaware and Susquehanna,
which I think cannot fail of having the desired effect, if those
Gentlemen and especially the first shall be pleased to exert the
power he hath in his hands, for that purpose.
I intended this Spring to have taken measures to endeavour
to remove Some families from Connecticut who are Settled at
Cushetunk on the River Delaware against the express orders of
this Government, of which, both the Six Nations and Delaware
have Several times complained to me. But on the arrival of these
orders to Sir Jeffry Amherst, it becomes me to suspend any opera-
tions of that Sort, till I know what Steps he will be pleased to
take upon the Occasion. — in the mean time, I shall be extremely
obliged to You for any information respecting this matter, that
You may think it necessary for this Government to be acquainted
with; and am With the greatest Respect
Dear Sir
Your Most Obedient & most
Obliged humble Servant
James Hamilton1
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
INDORSED:2
Philadelphia April 1 6*. 1 763
Govr. Hamiltons Letter
1 Lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania, 1748-1754; deputy governor,
1759-1763, 1771, and 1773.
2 In Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 657
JOURNAL OF AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
Thursday April the 21 X 1763 —
Asarondongas Chief of the Onondagas living at Otseningo
with several more of his Nation Arrived at Johnson Hall & spoke
as follows. —
Brother Gorah Warraghiyagey —
I am sent here by the Warriors of my Settlement to represent
their present deplorable Situation, having no Ammunition where-
with to Hunt for the Support of themselves, and their Old People,
and to Entreat you to Supply them with some, which they will
gratefully acknowledge; and, indeed! they are led to hope for
your Compliance, from the many Promises made to them whilst
engaged in the War. —
A Belt
Brother
These Strings of Wampum are sent by our whole Settlement
to let you know their uneasiness at having heard nothing from
you since the Reduction of Canada, and beg, that you will look
upon them to be as firm Friends, and Brothers to the English,
as the Six Nations are, although they are detached some Distance
from them, and that you will as Usual, give them Notice to Attend
the general Meetings at your House. —
A Bunch of Wampum
To which Sir William Answered —
Brethren. —
I have heard the Complaint of the Warriors of your Nation
living at Otseningo, and must say, that I think, their distressed
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
658 Sir William Johnson Papers
Situation, & want of Ammunition must be owing to their Inactivity,
as they have nothing now to mind but their Hunting, which
certainly (if closely followed) would enable them to Supply
themselves, and Families with necessary Cloathing & Ammuni-
tion. — However, as you are come so far for it, I shall give
you some Ammunition, and hope you will make good use of it —
Returned their Belt
Brethren —
The Reason of my not Sending for any of your People to any
of the Meetings held here with the Six Nations since the Reduc-
tion of Canada, is, that you of that Settlement did not Act a
Brotherlike Part, when I called you all to Join me, and the Army
in the Year 1 760. — In Hopes that you will for the time to Come,
act a more friendly part, I now Promise you, that I shall for the
future, keep up a Correspondence with your People, as long as
they Continue to Act agreable to the Old Agreement entered
into between us, and the Six Nations. —
Gave a Bunch of Wampum —
After Receiving Ammunition, Paint, Tobacco &ca. they
Parted. —
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York 24* April 1763 —
Sir
I have Just now the Favor of your Letter of the 1 4th. Instant ;2
and as you think it absolutely Necessary to Supply the Indians
who Visit you, with Provisions, while they Continue at your
House, I Write to Col : Bradstreet to Order you Ten Barrels of
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 653.
Indian Uprising 659
Pork, with Flour in proportion, which will be Delivered to you
on your Application ; & I have likewise Desired him to Order you
the Necessary Assistance for Transporting the Same from Al-
bany. —
I am in daily Expectation of the Arrival of a Packet Boat
from England, with the Definitive Treaty, and Directions in Con-
sequence thereof, for a New Arrangement of Everything in this
Country, and I shall then Acquaint you therewith. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca,
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from Mr. Croghan to Sir Wm. Johnson dated
Fort Pitt. April 24, 1763.
Sir
Some time ago about 1 25 Shawanese came here, and delivered
up 5 Prisoners ; what past between them, and me, I have enclosed
to you with Mr. McKee's Report2 — I likewise send you Mr.
Hutchins3 Draft. As I hope to have the Pleasure of seeing you
some time in June I will then take my Journal with me for your
Perusal. — By letters I have recd. from Major Gladwin4 &
Cap1. Cambell5 it appears that the Indians in them parts are very
uneasy in their minds, since they have heard that so much of this
Country is ceded to Great Britain, and indeed the Indian Nations
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Oct. 12-Nov. 27, 1762, ante p. 576.
3 Ensign Thomas Hutchins of the 60th regiment.
4 Major Henry Gladwin of the 80th regiment, Commandant at Detroit.
5 Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment, second in command
at Detroit.
660 Sir William Johnson Papers
hereabouts are full as uneasy, as 'till now they always expected
Canada would be given back to the French on a Peace, they
say the French had no Right to give up their Country to the
English. — they seem a good deal sulky of late, and appear
more unwilling to bring in the Prisoners than formerly. —
There are about 30 large Batteaus building here to carry 400
men down this River to take Possession of that part of America
ceded to Great Britain, and Col Boquet1 has wrote me that there
will be some Settlements made down this River, & on Mississipi —
if so I can't say how the Inds. will relish such Settlements, as I
am of Opinion General Amherst will not give himself the trouble
of accquainting them with his Designs. — By Letters from Penn-
sylvania I understand that great Numbers of People are prepar-
ing to go down the River with the Troops from this Post in order
to settle, of which I make no doubt of you being made acquainted
by the General —
I am yours &c —
Geo: Croghan
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall 30* April 1763
Sir
On a farther inspection into my Accompts, I find that some
Mistakes had been made somewhat to my disadvantage, which
haveing rectified I now transmit the whole, which I hope will
prove to your Excellencys Satisfaction. —
I was not aware of the Alterations proposed, other-wise, I
should have saved your Excellency any trouble on that Head,
1 Colonel Henry Bouquet of the 60th regiment.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
Indian Uprising
661
as clearness & probity hath always been my guide in Matters
of that Nature. —
I have the honour to be with
the greatest Respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst —
FROM RICHARD ALLEN
A. D. S.1
[Fort Stamvix, 2d May 1763]
I
] a 20 0 0
@ 200
hundred] of Wampum @ 4/ pc.
]of
]
] large Silver Seal
] of Cloaths Coat & Wast Coat plush 1 5
]Coat
j | Shirts
] Stocking
@12/
@ 8/
[10
4.
0.
0
10.
8.
0
3.
10.
0
14.
4.
0
10
—
ush 15.
0
0
1
0
0
1
16
0
1
12
0
£101.
10.
0
Richd Allen
]
1 In New York State Library. "Account of losses sustained from the
Indians." Johnson Calendar, p. 168. Cited in Johnson Papers, 4:107,
as destroyed by fire.
2 Several lines are missing.
662 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO SAMUEL FULLER
Cop])1
Fort Johnson, May 8th. 1763.
Mr. Fuller:
My reason for comeing here this Day was to agree with the
Workmen whom You intend taking into the Woods with You, and
as I had not an opertunity of Seeing you or them, I leave this paper
to let you know that I am determined to give no more than five
Shillings per Day to any whom you may employ for my Work;
if they will not agree to that, I desire you will not bring them
with You. Neither will I give more to any (yourself Excepted),
who work at Cap't Clau's House. What I have promised
you shall be paid.
I am y'rs
WM. Johnson
To MR. Samuel Fuller.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York, 8th. May 1763 —
Sir,
I had last Night the Favor of your Letter of the 30th. April3
with the Abstract of your Accompts, which upon Examination,
appear Still to be Wrong; for the Sum Total of the Third page,
as the Articles are Entered, makes only £2889. .6. .5 6/7;
But as you have Signed the Abstract, and that it may happen
1 Printed in John Sanders, Early History of Schenectady, (1879),
p. 329. Then owned by General Wm. K. Fuller.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
3 Ante p. 661.
Indian Uprising 663
the Mistake may be in Entering some of the Articles, I do not
Chuse to Alter the Sum, and therefore am Obliged to Return
you the Abstract, to be Rectified, before the Warrant can be
Granted. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
P.S. By the last Packet the
definitive Treaty is Sent Over; but
is not yet made publick here; I yet
Wait another Packet, or a Man of
War, to Receive the General
Arrangement for the Troops here. —
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE1
[Johnson Hall May 12, 1763]
Thursday May 12th. 1763, Two Chief Warriors of [Onon-
daga] 2 & Two of the Cayuga Nation, with Two Mohawks arrived
here, being Sent from the Council at Onondaga, & in behalf of
the Whole Confederacy, — On their entering ye. Council Room,
the Speaker Stood up, & went thro a long ceremony of Con-
dolence on the Death of Sir William's Father,3 who they had
heard by the way hither, had lately dyed. —
A Bundle of Wampum —
then the Speaker with a Belt of Wampum removed all Greif
& uneasiness from Sir Wms. Mind, so as that he might be pre-
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Johnson's hand.
Also copied in Guy Johnson's hand, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Onondaga, in Guy Johnson's copy.
8 Christopher Johnson who died in 1 763.
664 Sir William Johnson Papers
pared to hear what they were charged with from their Con-
federacy.
A Belt —
Present Sr Wra J
Guy Johnson D. Agl.
Wm. Printup Intr.
On wh. Sir Wm. returned them thanks agreeable to the usual
Manner Custom & with Wampum — then the Speaker began
as follows. —
Brother Gorah Warraghiyagey
1We are sent by our Great Warriors & Chiefs of the Six Na-
tions to lay before you the many Services which we have per-
formed at your request, to put you in mind of what was repeatedly
said to us to induce us to assist you in your War agl. the French
which you declared it was our interest to support you in, and to
represent that [favorable] in Compliance therewith & on the hopes
of your future favor & friendship we heartily joyned you & gave
you all the assistance in our power during the Whole as well
at the reduction of Niagra, as afterwards to Montreal, where by
our Speeches to the french Inds. & the personal attendance of
our prin1. people you obtained an easy conquest, — From all
this, as well as the former friendship Subsists, between us, we
rely e [J] on & Expect [e d] your constant favor, and are there-
fore now come at the request of the Whole 6 Nats. to beg you
will give us your advice & Assistance concerns, our Land on the
Susquehanna, which we understand the N. England people
are abl. depriving us of, by virtue of a[n] Deed which they say
they have of the same, but which we positively declare is a Fraud,
and was Stolen from us thro' the means of Lydias2 at Albany,
who from time to time inviegled, & intoxicated a few of our people,
seperately, & with*, each others knowledge to sign the same,
1 From this point the manuscript is in Guy Johnson's hand.
2 John Henry Lydius.
Indian Uprising 665
& which our Warriors who have the protect11, of our Lands
for the old people will never agree to, & therefore the Whole
Six Nats. earnestly request your immediate interpositn. & assistce.
to prevent our Losing the same, & to stop the bad consequences
wch. must [result from such a] Settlement, and we are likewise
to desire you will [acq1] the Governor of New England & request
he does not listen any more to the Speeches of Thomas Auquago,
who is a Person of no Consequence amongst us, and who, we
understand goes to New England & speaks things without any
authority from us, and contrary to our Sentiments & Inclina-
tions. —
A Belt 1 1 Rows —
Brother
This is the Speech we shall make to the Govr. of N England
Brother
We have heard for some time past that your people are going
to Build and Settle on our Lands on the Susquehanna River wch.
has greatly alarmed us. — we have been many Years in Alliance
& friendship with the English & the Cov1. chain hath been care-
fully preserved between us. You desired to be admitted into the
Covf. & we accordingly admitted you relying on your due observ-
ance of it. And therefore we think it very strange you shd.
entertain any thought of breaking it by going to settle yourselves
on our Hunts. Land, which [rve]1 never was fairly sold you,
& know of no title you have thereto, as we have only heard that
one Lydias who did many bad things amst us, was endeavouring
to get, & Did persuade some of [us] our People to sign a Deed
with1, the Consent or privity of the rest, or of those who had a
right to dispose of it, & therefore we are resolved never to allow
of the Settlem*. wch is our Support & wch we love as our lives.
You know that we often granted [you] our Bretheren Lands
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
666 Sir William Johnson Papers
whilst we cod. spare them, whenever [you] they applied to us
all in publick Meeting, but as these are our best Hunts. Grounds
and have never been sold to our knowledge, We are now sent [to
assure] in the name of all the 6. Nats. to tell you we request you
will stop your people, as [lee] our Warriors will never suffer any
such Settlement
A Belt 8 Rows —
Brother WarrX
In case the Govr. shall seem to persist in Settling our Lands,
We shall tell him That we think it very hard he should continue to
design such a thing contrary to [the] all our Inclinats, Especially
as we are so closely bound in friendship together, & allways
assisted one another, & as he must know that the Lands were Stolen
as I just now mentA, by Lydias, & were never Sold by us or with
our knowledge, for which reason we are unanimously determined
to oppose any such Settlement
A Belt 6 Rows —
Brother
If he makes any farther proposal to us, We shall repeat what
we have said & insist on our resolutions, and represents, that as
the White people have learning & know right & Wrong, God1 may
inflict some punishm'. on them for attempting to harm us; We
therefore beg they will not attempt it, as we will never suffer it
A belt 6 Rows
Brother
Should the Govr. still remain obstinate & not regard our
remonstrances we shall tell him, That he must then hear our
unanimous Resolutions which are to defend our Lands & not
suffer them to be settled, so that if he shod. attempt it, it must
be at his own risque;2 but, however as a proof of our friendship
& desire to preserve peace if he will not credit us, we shall
1 "the great Spirit" in the copy in Vol. 6.
2 From here to end of paragraph is omitted in copy in Vol. 6.
Indian Uprising 667
conduct him by the Hand to the Great fire place at Fort Johnson,
where will be assembled the Chiefs of all our Nations from whose
Lips he can be informed of our gen1. Resolution
A belt 6 Rows —
Brother
We have now finished what we were charged with from our
Chiefs whose desire it is that this our Speech be delivered to
the Govr. of Connecticut by the Mohocks who are the oldest
branch of our Confederacy, and we are farther to desire you will
acquaint us what time we shall set off for N Engld with our
Brethren the Mohocks — and also send some proper White
person with us to have the care and protection of us on our
Journey agreable to the Desire of our Chiefs —
*Sir William Johnsons Answer D°. Die —
Bretheren of the Six Nations,
I have with attention heard the Speech wh. you were charged
with from Your Confederacy to me, also that, which you are to
make to the Governour of Connecticut in their Name, and I wish he
may pay a due regard thereto. —
Bretheren
It was needless for yr. Cheifs to remind me of what has passed
between Us during my Care of You, being all fresh in my
Memory, and faithfully recorded, — I am verry sensible of the
long & Uninterrupted freindship wh. has Subsisted between Us,
and the Services you have done, all which have been from time to
time candidly reported, to those in power, and even to the Great
King My Master, (whose [by his] Several Instructions, & orders
Sent to his Generals & Governours concerning your Interest wh.
you have been duely made acquainted with) are, I think Sufficient
1 From this point the manuscript is in Johnson's hand.
668 Sir William Johnson Papers
Proofs of his [generous] good Intentions towards you, and great
Regard for your Wellfare, which I hope you will ever make
Your Study to deserve. —
Brethren —
I have the Pleasure now to Acquaint You with a fresh Instance
of the great Kings gracious, and favorable Intentions towards You,
on the Proceedings of the Connecticuit People being represented
to him, he immediately wrote to his Governor of that Province,
forbidding him to Suffer any of Ye. People of his Government
Settleing on the Lands of Susquahannah, until the true State
of the Case shall be laid before him. — by this Step, I am hope-
full there will be an entire Stop put to Yr. Uneasiness on that
Head. —
Brethren —
As You are Still determined to proceed to Connecticut with the
Sentiments of your Confederacy, & desire I would Send Some
proper Persons with You, I shall agreable to ye. request of the
Six Nations, Send Lieu1. Johnson1 one of my Deputies, & an
Interpreter with him to take Care of You [Along] on the Journey,
and See that there be no injustice done to You; & He will be
ready to proceed with You the next day after to Morrow. — I
have nothing further to Say, but to recommend to You a good
behaviour, and an observance of Mr. Johnson's Directions to You
regarding yr. Conduct along ye. Road. —
their
answer
Brother. —
it gives us great Pleasure to hear from You that the King has
sent such Orders to his Governour, and we hope he will listen
to it, We go now with more pleasure, as we expect our request
1 Lieutenant Guy Johnson.
Indian Uprising 669
will be readily comply ed with, After what the great King has been
so good to do for us. —
Brother
we Return you many thanks for Sending so good — & proper a
Person as Mr. Johnson with Us, and you may depend upon our
behaveing consistent with our Character, & up to the Advice You
have given us, — for wh. we are oblidged to You, and hope to See
You well on our Return. —
then Parted —
INDORSED:
Recd. in
Vol. 8*.
Indn. Recds.
407
EDMOND MORAN TO JOSEPH SPEAR AND COMPANY
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from Edmond Moran Merchant at Fort Edwd.
Augustus. To Mr. Joseph Spear and Company Merchants at
Detroit
dated Fort Edward Augustus2 16 May 1763.
Sir,
The Indians would do very well here, but for the Canadians,
they Spirit them up to every thing thats bad against the English ;
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
2 At Green Bay (La Baye, La Baye des Puans), Wisconsin. As
early as 1721 a French fort (La Baye) was erected at Green Bay on
the left bank of the Fox River, a half league from its mouth. During the
Fox wars it was later strengthened, and when occupied by the English
troops in 1761 was renamed Fort Edward Augustus. Thwaites, Early
Western Travels, 2:138.
670 Sir William Johnson Papers
I am sure that it will never be worth any English Traders while
to follow this Trade unless the French are Prohibited to Come
here. —
Yours &c
Edmd Moran
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
J\ .1—1. o.
Johnson Hall 18th. May 1763
Sir
I am this Ins1, honoured with yours of the 8th. Curr'.2 with the
Abstract of my Accompt returned, on reexamineing the Same, I
find a mistake made in the casting up the Sum Total of the 3d.
Page, which happened thro mistake and hurry, as I imagine it will
now be found right, I send it herewith. —
I am much oblidged to your Excellency for acquainting me
with your haveing received the Definitive Treaty, and your ex-
pectation of haveing the general arrangement for the Troops
here soon sent You. I heartily wish it may be such a one as will,
enable Your Excellency to put everry thing on the best footing,
and to secure to his Majesty the extensive conquests You have
made for him in this part of the World. —
I have the honour to be with
the greatest respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
1 In Public Record Office, W. O, 34, Vol. 39.
2 Ante p. 664.
Indian Uprising 671
FROM JAMES HAMILTON
Philad. May 18°. 1763
Dear Sir
I have the favour of yours of the 30c. of April,2 and am
much obliged to you for the intelligence therein contained,
respecting your transactions with Governor Fitch. — But it is
not by the means of Governor Fitch that I expect a stop will be
put to the intrusions of the Connecticut Men upon the Indian's
Lands. — I have from time to time exchanged several letters
with that Gentlemen upon this Subject, but must needs say, I
have always found his Answers so artful and ambiguous, and
containing so little precision with regard to the main point, as, in
a great measure, to convince me that He is a Wellwisher to the
Scheme of his Countrymen. — What alteration the Secretary of
State's letter may work upon his future Conduct I know not, but
I confess, I do not expect much effect from it : nor, indeed, from any
thing, less than a great firmness of opposition on the part of
the Six Nations, or from the hearty interposition of Sir Jeffry
Amherst, even by an Armed force in Case it should be necessary,
which Mr Penn informs me He hath directions to make use of,
if a Stop can no otherwise be put to such settlement.
I long extreamly to hear the result of the Six Nations, who,
you are pleased to acquaint me, are now met at Onondago to
consult upon this subject: And heartily thank you, for your
promise of Communicating the same to me so soon as you shall
be informd of it. — This is indeed become the more necessary,
as I understand from Cap1. Bull, the late Teedyuscung's Son,
and other Indians who are now in Town, that there lately came
to Wyomda fourteen of those Connecticut people, who are
actually preparing to build houses & make Settlements at that
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Draft dated April 29, 1763, in Johnson Papers, 4:106-7.
672 Sir William Johnson Papers
place, and that they expect every day to be joined by 400
more of their Countrymen. — These People tell me that as
the Land belongs to the Six Nations from whom these Intruders
say they have purchased it, they do not think themselves at
liberty to oppose or remove them without receiving particular
orders for that Purpose. — Hence You will See, that after all
the pains and trouble you have taken, this Settlement is like to
take place, unless a Speedy Stop be put to it, either by the
Six Nations themselves, or by Sir Jeffry Amherst & Mr Fitch,
in pursuance of the directions they have received from home;
And of this I beg you will be pleased to acquaint Sir Jeffry —
As for my self, I should certainly endeavour to make use of such
means as are in my power to obstruct these proceedings; but as
the matter seems, by Mr Penn's letters, to be altogether referr'd
to Sir Jeffry Amherst & Mr Fitch, I know not what part to act,
untill I am acquainted with their determinations upon that head, of
which, and also of that of the Six Nations, I again beg you will
be pleased to inform me, as soon as you shall Know them,
that I may take my measures accordingly.
I cannot conclude without heartily thanking on the part
of the Proprietors as well for your constant Concern for the
preservation of the publick peace, as of their particular rights
and those of the Original Owners of the Lands. — I am with
the Greatest respect Dr. Sir
your Most Obliged humble Servant
James Hamilton
SR. WM. Johnson
INDORSED:1
May 1 8* 1 763 —
Govr. Hamilton's Letter
1 In Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 673
FROM WILLIAM KELLY
Cop})1
New York May 25* 1763
Sir:
I did myself the pleasure to write you a few days ago Since
which had for answer from Mr. Gilliland2 who I applied to,
to Ship your Goods that he had had no orders about them but
that if I woud Indorse over the Bill of Lading he woud receive
& Ship them. This determin'd me to forward them myself &
shoud be glad you'd inform me who is to receive your Goods &ca
for the future
I am Sir
Your Most Obed1. Serv*.
William Kelly
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
INDORSED:
New York May 25* 1 763
Mr. Wm. Kellys letter
with a Bill of Lading
1 From a copy made before the capitol fire of 1911; original destroyed
by fire. See Johnson Calendar, p. 1 70.
2 William Gilliland.
674 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
AD.1
[May 20-28, 1763]
Johnson Hall Friday May 20*. [1 763] —
Severall of the Six Nations Arrived here, and acquainted
Sir Wm. Johnson, that there were Severall of the Senecas,
Cayugas, & others yet [to come] , & that when they were all
Assembled, they would come in a Body to Condole the loss of
his Father, who they had heard (on their way hither) dyed lately.
— After Receiving Provisions &ca they went to their Quarters —
Saturday 2 1 st. — They all arrived except ye. Oneidaes, who
they said were detained on Acclt. of a Party of their Warriors,
who had been to War agst. the Southeren Indians being arrived
with Some Prisrs. & ca. —
John Butler Esqr. Interpreter
Sunday 22d. being all Assembled in ye. Council Room to
the am1, of 1 29 — the Onondaga Speaker with 3 Strings of
Wampum, agreable to their Manner, Wiped away the Tears from
Sir Wms. Eyes shed for ye. loss of his Father,2 so as that he might
look chearfully & friendly at his Bretheren present, the Six Na-
tions. — With another String He removed all Sorrow & uneasiness
from his breast, occasioned by Said loss, and cleared away all
obstructions, wh. otherwise might prevent his speaking freely,
& Brotherlike to the Six Nations. — With a third String removed
everry thing from of the Death Bed, & wiped away the Blood
out of his Sight, so as to give no further concern.
3 Strings —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9; in Johnson's hand.
A copy in Indian Records, Vol. 6, has been used to check variations
and parts not easily legible.
2 Christopher Johnson, who died in 1 763.
Indian Uprising 675
Broth
er
It gave us [the] much Concern to hear of Yr. great loss by
ye. death of yr. Father, & the more so, as we only heard of it
[and that] the Day we arrived here at the fire place of all the
Nations, on wh. we imediately considered your Scituation, [&
now] and now do cover the Grave of yr. late Father, so as to
prevent yr. further Greif —
A large white Belt mixed —
Broth
er
As we are Sensible that since ye. Commencement of the War
between the English & French You have lost Severall of yr.
freinds & Relations, Which gives us as well as You much concern,
We With this Belt now collect all their dispersed Bones In one
heap, & bury them in ye. Earth, and Cover them up out of yr.
Sight for ever —
A large white Belt
Brother
As You now sitt in Darkness, We with this Belt remove all
the heavy Clouds wh. surround You, that You may again behold
the light, [a/50] & Sunshine —
A White Belt
Brother
Your Mind being greatly disturbed, & of Course Your Atten-
tion to business prevented by the aforesd. Loss, We the Six
Nations now with this Belt pour the clearest Water into yr. Body
and cleanse yr. Breast therewith, that You may be prepared to
hear what Your Brethren have to say to You —
A Belt of White Wampum
676 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother.
We have now gone through ye. Ceremony looked upon by
us as necessary on those Melancholly occasions, and have now
only [noip] to add, that We with these Strings of Wampum wipe
of all dust &ca. from yr. feet to yr. Head, and [now have only to
desire] beg you will be ready to attend to the business we are
come upon. —
3 Strings —
Here Sir Wm. returned them thanks for their regard Shewn
to him on this Occasion, — and then went thro ye. Ceremony of
Condolance for the many losses they had Sustained during the
War. — This was done by Belts & Strings, in return for those
given by them. —
Thursday May 26th. —
All the Sachims & Cheif Warriors of the Severall Nations
being Assembled in the Council Room — T eyyatvarunte ye.
Ondaga Speaker Stood up, & Spoke as follows. —
Present Sir Wm. Johnson
Mr. Robert Nugent
& John Butler Esqr. Interpr. —
Brother Gorah Warraghiiagey —
We the Six Nations [are] now rekindle & light up, & dress
the fire which burns here at the Council Place of all the Confeder0?
& we request it may be taken Care of, and that it may burn clearer
than it now does. —
N.B. — This Afternoon 45 Warriors from ye. Chunussios
arrived here.
4 Strings —
Indian Uprising 677
Brother —
We also put fresh Earth around ye. Tree of Shelter, wh.
seems to Us to be loose, So as that the roots thereof may grow
Strong, & Spread far, and the Branches thereof to afford a
large Shade for all ye. Nations to Sit under, [it] —
A Belt —
Broth
er
We are Sorry that we are under a Necessity of Reminding
our Brethren ye. English of the first Agreement made on ye. first
Arrival of their People in this our Country, which Agreement was
then thought by them verry agreable & advantagious, and great
care was promised then by both, to be taken of it, — [&]
that nothing should be able to break, or overset it. —
Here repeated the whole of it, and concluded with renewing
& Strengthening, the same on their parts. —
A White Belt w*. ye. N°. of Nats. —
1 1 Rows —
Broth
er
On yr. first appointment to ye. managem1. of our Affairs,
we put ye. greatest Confidence in you, from the Knowledge we
had of You, and yr. Regard for us, & as we still continue the
same Opinion of you, we now entreat you to Join us in our Request
to ye. Genr1. and Govr. wh. is, that they Assist in keeping bright,
and Strong ye. Cov1. Chain, which to say [that] of late [the cove-
nant chain] seems to contract a great deal of rust, Occasioned
by the Genr,s. little Regard, [to this affair] which We are,
on our parts, determined to clear away ye. rust, and hold fast
thereby (agreable to ye. first engagement) as long as we are a
People, and this, we call to ye. Great Spirrit above to witness, is
our firm, & unanimous resolution, & we hope that on due consd"1. he
678 Sir William Johnson Papers
will be of ye. same way of thinking, otherwise the Chain may
break. —
A Belt of 7 Rows black wth.
ye. Emblem of 2 Men. —
to Genr1. Amherst1
Brother —
for these severall years past, or Since You were engaged in
ye. War agsl. ye. French, it seems to us that yr. Attention was
so much taken up that Way, as to hinder or prevent your paying
[so] much regard to matters of any [an] other kind [as otherwise
you might have done] by this means ye. Silver chain of freind-
ship, [is become] made by yr. Ancestors is become quite weak,
and in great danger, of [being] breaking, which we cannot imagine
to be ye. desire of ye. great King, who we have heard so many
good accounts of, and who we are informed, is desireous of nothing
more than establishing peace & unity thro all the Country. We
therefore desire, Brother, that You, who have ye. care, & Com-
mand of the Great Kings [business] Affairs here, will act agreable
to [j>e. great Kings] his Intentions, & not be too ready to break
ye. Old Agreement, made by both our Forefathers, whose Bones
are now in Ashes, least ye. great Spirit above may Send some
Punishment on you for a Breach of the £*W.2 by this Belt, we
ye. Six Nations earnestly desire You will consider well before
You attempt [to] break ye. Chain. —
A Belt of 9 Rows —
Brother Govr. of New York —
We the Six Nations Assembled unanimously Request You
will consider of & follow the Steps of your Predecessors, that is,
1 In the copy, Indian Records, Vol. 6 this is transcribed: "Brother —
This Speech is addressed to General Amherst."
2 "on those who break it" in the copy.
Indian Uprising 679
to attend closely to ye. Covenant entered into between your Fore-
fathers & Ours, and suffer not yourself to be led away by any
evil thoughts, or any thing else, wh. may occasion a Breach
[between Us] thereof, as Seems now to be threatened, but to
consider seriously the ill consequences of a War, which must effect
You, & your People, as well as us — Peace is best for both [of
us], as yl. will never destroy either of Us.1
A Belt
Addressed to Gen'. Amherst —
Brother.
We ye. Sachims, & Warriors of ye. Six Nations declare we
are as much Concerned for ye. late unhappy Murder Committed
last year on two of your Brethren, as You can be, and have in
vain taken all ye. Measures we could think of ever since, by
Meetings of all the Confederacy at Onondaga, here, &ca. for
y'. purpose but we could not prevail on our Nations to deviate
from ye. Custom, & rules of our Ancestors, neither was it ever
so much insisted on until now. — We have had many of our
People killed by yr. Brethren since ye. first Settlement of yr.
People here, & never Sought for any revenge, or Satisfaction
(although in our Power) after ye. party offde. had condoled ye.
Death of the Slain agreable to our Custom. — for wh. reason,
we cant help being of opinion, You must have some other [reason]
cause for pushing us so much in this affair, & that, as we have reason
to think is for our Lands, wh. ye. Great Spirit gave us for our
Habitations or Liveing, it would be wrong, after all that the great
King from time to time has told us on yf. Head to Attempt a
thing of y*. kind, & we can hardly believe he would desire it. We
therefore, beg Brother You may look back to the Old Agreement,
1 In the copy, Indian Records, Vol. 6, this last sentence reads : "Peace
is best for both Parties, as it must contribute more to our mutual happiness."
680 Sir William Johnson Papers
& abide by it. Otherwise ye. great Spirit may be offended, &
inflict a punishment on those who do wrong. —
A Belt w* B & W Circles
To ye. Genr1.
Brother. —
At ye. Commencement of the War between You, and ye.
French, We were applied to by You, for our Assistance, &
told then, and often [after] since that if we took up the hatchet
agst ye French, You would Remove them of our Lands, &
Restore them to Us. it was also promised to us that if You
should conquer the French, Your hands would ever be open to
us, and, that as ye. English were a Wealthy & tradeing People,
We should be Supplied with Goods at a verry reasonable rate,
all those promises we expected (after assisting you) would be
fulfilled, but alas we find it quite otherwise ; [having] for instead
of restoreing to us our lands, we [find] See You in possession of
them, & [more] building more Forts in many parts of our Country,
notwithstanding ye. French are dead. This, together with ye.
dearness of goods wh. are so high, that all our hunting cannot
supply our wants, gives our Warriors & Women ye. greatest un-
easiness, and makes us apt to beleive every bad report we hear of
Your intentions towards Us. As we have declared our resolutions
of keeping up yl. f reindship subsisting between You and Us, We
now Expect & desire You will do ye. Same & fulfil those
promises so repeatedly made to Us, — which alone will convince
us of your honest Intentions towards Us. —
A Belt
Still to ye. Gen1.
Brother —
Osswego is a place wh. was first agreed upon by mutual
consent, as a proper Mart [/]or Place of Trade for both, &
Indian Uprising 681
while the Trade was carried on there, all Nations far & near
resorted thither & were much better Satisfied, & treated than
now at any of ye. Severall Posts where yr. People trade, Every-
thing being now sold to them so dear, & powder wh, is the
principal Article, so scarce, that ye. foreign Nations often come
to enquire of Us the reason, and begin to think, that yr. People
take too much advantage or them, & have some bad design, we
as often Assure them that they are as well used as we are, &
endeavour all we can to Satisfy them, by telling them times may
soon alter for ye. better, and indeed Brother we much fear if
they do not [soon] & speedily, that something bad may be done
to Your People who go so far into their Country, for they are
a foolish & rash People, to prevent which, we would advise that
no trade be carried on with them but at Osswego, Niagra & De-
troit, & that more reasonable than at present, this we earnestly
recommend to yr. serious consideration as any mistep taken by
them may overset all our good endeavours, & involve You &
them in a War, wh. we would wish to avoid.
A Belt —
Brother —
On y*. unfortunate Affairs1 happening last Fall, You imme-
diately desired that we of Onondaga would exert ourselves, and
insist on the Senecas doing you Justice, We accordingly made
several Journeys thither in vain, until you at length sent up our
Elder Brother ye. Mohawk with whose Assistance & persuasion
we prevailed on our Brother ye. Seneca to come to our fire place
at Ondaga, from thence here. Here the Seneca Cheif stood up
& spoke. We ye. Senecas now with this Belt of Wampum open
up & clear away all filth & obstructions out of the road from our
Country of Chenussio to the fire place here, [where] on w*1. we
shall for the future have our Eyes fixed, and shall for ye. time
to come be ready to attend whenever You call, and we shall be
1 "of the Murder" in the copy.
682 Sir William Johnson Papers
glad when You have any Message to Send to us, that it may be
by some of your own People & not by Indians. —
A Belt —
Ogaestarix Chief of the Senecas spoke still
to Sir Jeffy Amherst
Broth
er —
Give attention to what I am going to say to You on behalf of
the Seneca Nation in General. — After all that has been done
& said on this occasion, I have only to add, that our Uneasiness
& concern for ye. unhappy Murder effects us so much that we ye.
Senecas will not rest until we procure You a proper plaister for
ye. wound we have given You, indeed we look upon it as [ done]
given to ourselves; wherefore hope you will rest Satisfied with
ye. Assurance we now give you in ye. presence of all ye. Nations.
2 Belts —
N.B. — All ye. other Nations on yl. promise of the
Seneca [Ogoestrix]1 shewed ye. greatest Satisfaction —
Sir Wm. then told them that as Soon as he had perused & Con-
sidered of what they had Sayed, He would Return them an
Answer —
Ended —
Friday May 27*.
Being all Assembled as before, in ye. Council Room Sir Wil-
liam Johnson made them the following Answer.
Bretheren of the Six Nations Sachims & Warriors2
1 So written in the copy.
2 The speech is not recorded in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 683
Saturday1 May 28* 1 763 —
The Six Nations being met P M. the Oneida Speaker in behalf
of all their Bretheren, the Mohawks & Sir Wm. Desired the
Onondagas to exert themselves as they had done of late, as
nothing could contribute more to the happiness of ye. Whole
Confederacy than their keeping up the Council Fire, at their
Castle, and Continue2
A Belt of Black Wampum
Then the Onondaga Speaker with 3 Strings of Wampum
addressed himself in behalf of the Six Nations to Sir Wm. John-
son in ye. following Manner —
Brother Gorah Warraghiiagey —
We the Six Nations with Surprise & Concern behold the daily
Encroachments You are makeing upon [(7s 61] our Lands, con-
trary to ye. many Promises made to [the Contrary] to Us, —
[ Vizt. ] to Wit — Att Fort Brewerton We daily see yr. People
clearing large Feilds of our Land. — the Same at Osswego Falls,
Notwithstanding it was told to us by ye. General that they were
only to be temporary Posts for ye. protection of provisions, Am".
&ca and wl. is as bad at ye. before mentioned Posts, when our
Hunters come out of ye. Woods with Firs, Skins, Meat & the
like, there are always Some of yr. People ready with liquor to
intoxicate them, & thereby deprive them of wl. they with labour
& loss of time procured for the Sustenance of their Familys, &
wl. is worse when they get our People quite Drunk they plunder
[us] them of everry thing they think worth takeing & on [our]
their makeing an enquiry when Sober for wf. they were robbed
1 Incorrectly given as "Thursday" in copy, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Breaks off here; copy has "continuing steadfast to their Engagements."
684 Sir William Johnson Papers
of, Our People are extremely 111 treated and abused & oblidged
to go off without any Satisfaction. — We now desire to know
from You Brother, whether those People at them Posts have
such Orders, & when they are to evacuate Said Posts. —
3 Strings of Wampum
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
L.S.1
Niagara 26th. Map 1763
Sir/
An Indian King Namd Nobaumigate who came here the 23d.
Ins1, complains greatly that he's very indifferently lookd upon,
whenever he comes along the English, he always has been told
as he saith that the English were generous, but that he always
found the french more so. & that he never wanted Ammunition
or any triffling things he wanted, he likewise wanted to know
the reason he could get no powder or Rum. the latter the Indians
in General complain they cannot get any. and beleives that was
there liberty for it, Trade would be a great Deal better, he also
told me that it is not proper for the Traders to go so far up the
Lakes Among Strange Indians, and that if any mischance may
happen by their going so far away it will not be in his power
to remedy one Shirlock a Deserter has been brought to this
place again by two Indians I Sent after Him & is the third time
he Deserted since last Winter.
He says he'll come another I am Sir
time which he believes will be with the greatest respect
the last, if things don't turn out your faithfull Serv1.
better than they do at present De CoUAGNE
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Gratz Collection.
Indian Uprising 685
The Honourable [Sir] Wm. Johnson
ADDRESSED :
To
The Honourable Sir Wm. Johnson
at
Fort Johnson
INDORSED:1
Niagra 26th. May 1 763
De Couagnes letter with
Intelligence —
INDIAN INTELLIGENCE
Coptf
Copy of the Intelligence Enclosed in the Above3
Intelligence brought to Fort Pitt by Mr. Calhoun4 June 1st.
1763 —
Tuskararvas May 27th. 1763 at II o'clock at Night
King Beaver, with Shingas, Weindohela, Daniel & William
Anderson, Chiefs of the Delawares, came & Delivered me the
following Intelligence by a String of Wampum —
Brother.
Out of regard to you, and the Friendship that formerly Sub-
sisted between our Grand Fathers and the English, which has
been lately Renewed by Us, We Come now to Inform you,
with what News We have heard, which you may Depend upon
is True. —
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
8 Bouquet to Amherst, June 1 0, 1 763.
4 Thomas Cohoun (Cahoun) . See Ecuyer to Bouquet, May 30, 1 763.
686 Sir William Johnson Papers
All the English at Detroit were killed Ten Days ago, and not
one left alive; at Sandusky all the White People were killed
Five Days ago, being Nineteen in Number, Except the Officer
that Commanded there is taken prisoner & One Boy that made
his Escape, which we have not heard of: At the Mouth of the
Twightwee River Hugh Crawford1 and One Boy taken Prisoner
& Six Men killed; at the Salt Licks, we heard to Day, there were
killed, Five Days ago, Five White Men; We have likewise Seen
a Number of Tracks on the Road between this and Sandusky,
not far off, which We are Sure are a Party Coming to Cutt you
& your People off; but We have Sent a Man to Watch their
Motions, and Request you may think of Nothing you have here,
but make the best of your Way to Some place of Safety, as we
would not Desire to See You killed in Our Town, be Carefull
to Avoid the Road & Every where Indians Resort.
Broth
er
What Goods and other Effects you have here, you need not
be Uneasy about them, we Assure you that we will take Care
& keep them Safe for Six Months, perhaps by that time we may
See you or Send you Word what to Expect from Us further;
And We know there is One WTiite Man, that belongs to you,
at Guiyahaga, do not be concerned for him, we will take Care
to Send him safe Home. —
Broth
er
We Desire you to tell George Croghan, & all your Great
Men, that they must not ask Us any thing about this News, or
what has happened, as we are not at all Concerned in it: The
Nations that have taken up the Hatchet against you, are the
Ottawas & Chepawas; & when you first went to Speak to them
People, you did not Consult Us upon it, therefore Desire you
1 A trader.
Indian Uprising 687
may not Expect that We are to Account for any Mischief they
Do, so what you want to know further about this News, you
must learn it by the Same Road you first went; but if you will
Speak with Us, you must send one or two Men only & We will
hear them.
Brother,
We thought your King had made Peace with us, & all the
Western Nations of Indians; for Our Parts we Joined it heartily
and Desired to hold it always good, and you may Depend upon
it we will take Care not to be readily Cheated or Drawn into a
War again ; but as we are Seated on the Road between you and
these Nations, who have taken up the Hatchet against you, we
Desire you will Send no Warriors this Way, 'till we are Removed
from this, which we will do as soon as we Conveniently can,
when we Shall permit you to pass without taking Notice; 'till
then We Desire the Warriors may go the Road you first went.
Gave a String Wampum
The following is what Mr. Calhoun learned, on his way to
Fort Pitt, from one of three Indians who were Sent by the
aforesaid Chiefs to Conduct him Safe here (viz*. Daniel who is
before mentioned as one of the Above Chiefs.)
That the Detroit was not really taken but had been Attacked
by the Indians four Days Before the Messenger who brought
the News left it, (which Mr. Calhoun Imagines must have been
from About the 13ih. to the 17th. of May) and that the Indians
had not then Met with much Success; but Strongly persisted in
Carrying on the Attack, and Said they were Determined not to
give over 'till they took it ; and that the English had Sent out three
Belts, & the French Two, Desiring them to Desist, which they
Refused. —
688 Sir William Johnson Papers
Mr. Calhoun further Says, that when he & his party, fourteen
in Number, were Setting out from Tuskarawas the Indian refused
to let them bring their Arms, telling them that the Three Indians
that were going along with them, were Sufficient to Conduct
them Safe; but the Next Day passing Beaver Creek they were
Fired upon by a Party of Indians, & their Guides Immediately
Disappeared without Interfereing for them, and he is Convinced
that they were led by these Guides knowingly to this Party in
Order to be Cutt off, from which himself with Three of his
People have only Escaped.
Having lost his way, and falling in upon the Road leading to
Venango, about Twenty Miles above his Post, he saw a Number
of Indians' Tracks that had gone that way —
(Signed) ALEXANDER Mc. KeE
Assis1. Agent for Indian Affairs
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
L.S.1
New York, 29*. May 1763.
Sir
I Had last Night the Favor of your Letter of the 1 8th. Ins1.2
with the Abstract of your Accompts Rectifyed; for the Amount
of which I Now Enclose You a Warrant. —
By the Albany Post, I had Likewise a Letter from Major
Gladwin, Enclosing One to him from the Commanding Officer
at the Miamis, with a War Belt, which had been Sent thither by
the Shawnese, &ca ; but Delivered up by the Chiefs of the Miamis
Indians, who, at the same time, made a Speech to the Command-
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 Ante p. 670.
Indian Uprising 689
ing Officer, Acquainting him of the Evil Intentions of the Several
Nations who were Concerned in Forwarding the said Belt. —
Altho' I Cannot think the Indians have it in their power to
Execute any thing Serious against Us, While We Continue to
be on our Guard; Yet I judge it Necessary to Send you the Belt,
which You will Receive herewith, as also Copys of what Major
Gladwin has Transmitted to me regarding their Affair; and I
Desire You will make such Use thereof, as may Appear most
proper for putting a Stop to such Treacherous Behavior for the
Future, and for Shewing the Indians the Contemptible Figure
they must make in our Eyes, by Violating the most Solemn
Promises of Friendship, without the Least Provocation on our
Side; I Mention the Contemptible Figure as it certainly is not in
their Power to Effect any thing of Consequence against Us; But
if, they are so Rash as to make an Attempt, the Mischief they
Intend will certainly Recoil upon themselves. —
I Doubt not but Mr. Croghan will be fully Informed, by the
Way of Fort Pitt, of this Intelligence ; I However shall Acquaint
him therewith by this Post ; and if You should think it Necessary,
You may Send Either Captain Claus, or Lieut: Johnson, with
proper Instructions, to Call those Nations who have been Chiefly
Concerned in Sending the Belt, to an Account for such Unwar-
rantable Proceedings: I Cannot Omit Observing that, in all the
Mischief that has lately been Broached among the Indians, the
Senecas seem to have a principal Hand, and it is Matter of Sur-
prise to me to Find that other Tribes, who have so often Experi-
enced our Bounty, should be Misguided by them, & so readily
Enter into Plots against their Benefactors, and Endeavor to Stirr
up the Distant Nations, who are newly become our Friends,
against Us: These Last however (if We can Rely on what the
Chiefs of the Miamis have Declared to the Commanding Officer
at that Post) Seem to be too Sensible of their Own Interest, to
Enter into Engagements, which, if pursued, would Inevitably
End in their own Destruction. —
690 Sir William Johnson Papers
Major Gladwin Writes me that before he Received my Orders
for Trying the Panis Slaves, who Murdered Mr. Clapham,1
the Man had made his Escape, and they since hear that he had
got to the Illinois: The Woman was however Tryed Imme-
diately, and being found Guilty, Hanged in the most publick
manner: I am only Sorry the Chief Perpetrator did not meet
with the same Punishment, for then the Example would have
been Compleat. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir
Your most obedient
Humble Servant.
Jeff: Amherst
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
INDORSED:
New York 29*. May 1 763
Sir Jeff. Amhersts Letter
with Sundry Enclosures
Entd. in Vol. VIII Indn. Records
Page 427 —
EDWARD JENKINS TO HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy2
Extract of a Letter from Lieu*. Edwd. Jenkins,3 To Major Henry
Gladwin Commandant of Detroit, dated,
Ouiatinon* Ist. June 1763
I have heard of your situation which gives me great pain, in-
1 See Johnson Papers, 4:95-96.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
3 Lieutenant Edward Jenkins of the 60th regiment.
4 Near the site of present Lafayette, Indiana.
Indian Uprising 691
deed we are not in much better for this Morning the Indians sent
for me to speak to me, and immediately bound me when I got
to their Cabbin, and I soon found some of my Soldiers in the
same Condition; They told me Detroit, Miamis and all these
posts were cutt Off, and that it was a folly to make any resistance
therefore desired me to make the few Soldiers I had in the Fort
Surrender, otherwise they would put us all to death in Case one
man was killed. They were to have fallen on us and killed us all
last night, but Messrs. Maisonville1 and Lorrain, gave them
Wampum not to kill us and when they told the Interpreter we
were all to be killed, and he knowing the Condition of the Fort
beg'd of them to make us prisoners. They have put us into the
French houses and both Indians and French use us very well.
All these Nations say they are very sorry, but that they were
Obliged to do it by the other nations, The Belt did not arrive
here till last night about eight o'Clock; Mr. Lorrain can inform
you of all. Just now received the news of S*. Joseph's being taken,
Eleven Men killed and three taken prisoners with the Officer; I
have nothing More to say but that I Sincerely wish you a speedy
succour, and that we may be able to revenge ourselves on those
that deserve it, I remain with my sincerest Wishes for your safty.
Your Most Hble Servant
mr \y/ * * «. a ■ Edwd Jenkins
1Mb We expect to set oft in a
Day or two for the Illinois
JAMES BIRD AND THOMAS McKEE TO INDIANS
Contemporary Copy2
Col. Birds Speech — Hunters Hill 10th June 1763
Brothers, the Six Nations, Delawares & Muncies upon the North
East & West branches of Susquahana
1 Alexander Maisonville.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. Enclosed in Thomas
McKee to Johnson, June 28, 1 763, post p. 720.
692 Sir William Johnson Papers
This is to acquaint you that by Order of the Honorable James
Hamilton Gov. of this Province and the Honoble Sir Wm.
Johnson Bar1, we are appointed to remove certain White People
who have settled themselves upon your Land at Wyoming con-
trary to his Majesties pleasure, and that we were so far on our
Journey for that purpose accompanied by Conoyaway Sam the
bearer hereof, and another young Man, and our Canoe loaded
with necessaries went as far as Kittaning Falls, when a Messenger
came to us with bad News from Fort Augusta1 acquainting us
that our forts at the Sun-Setting were attacked by the Indians,
and several of our People killed there, and that our Fort Augusta
on Susquahana wou'd soon be in the same Situation. — As we
have So lately brightned the Chaim of friendship with you, our
Brethn. we did not expect to hear this disagreeable news, and we
now send the bearer to know the truth of it, as we are waiting (if
it does not prove true) to proceed to Wyoming to execute our
above Instructions. — We desire you will send us a true State
of this Case, the Cause of this disturbance, and your further In-
tentions by Conoyarvay Sam, as we have sent him for that Pur-
pose. —
A White Belt 7 Rows
James Bird
Thomas McKee
A DECLARATION
Contemporary Copy2
Extract of a Declaration made to Cezar Cormick and the there-
in named Witnesses at Detroit II th. June 1763.
We under mentioned James Sterling Merchant, and Samson
Fleming Deputy Commissary of this place, being Called by
1 At Shamokin, later Sunbury, Pa.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1763.
Indian Uprising 693
Cezar Cormick also Merchant here, Do Certifie to have heard
the Inteligence of a person whom we can trust, as being well
informed by said person hitherto, of all the Conspiracies made
against His Brittannic Majesty's Subjects since they came to
Detroit, to the satisfaction of the Commanding Officers partic-
ularly since the beginning of the present Seige.
The said person has declared before us that Miny Chain,1
Jacque Godfroy, and Mrs. Beaubien Chauvin, and Labadee
Junr. went from hence the 12th. or 13th. Ult°. being the third or
fourth day of the Seige, publicly as they pretended for an
Officer from the Illinois to disperse the nations and in their way
they met John Welsh Merchant from Miamis in the Mouth of
Miamies river with two Pettiaugres loaded with Peltry, bound
for this place, the said five French men Ordered a band of Indians
who were with them to hide themselves in the wood close by,
untill they would entice the English ashore; then hailing them
to come and smoak a pipe and get the news, they came ashore and
satt down, the said French-men then Seized and told them they
were their prisoners, and calling up the Indians they divided
the prisoners and peltery betwixt them, then the said Chain and
Godfroy detacht the other three their Companions, back to Detroit,
with their share of the Booty, and Mr. Welsh prisoner; who came
and lodged the same in the house of the above said Miny Chain
next in the Settlement to the Potewatomies Village, that the
Outawas Claiming Mr. Welsh, Seized and Murthered him since;
and that the said Outawas came this day Seized and carried Off
the said peltry, and told them that the French had no business
with any Plunder, but that it belonged entirely to the Indians.
The said Informer likewise declared that the said Chain and
Godfroy, took also four of the said prisoners along with them
saying that they would take them to the Illinois and make Soupe
of them to Spirit up these Indians to war and come against the
English, which they now daily expected here. And that the said
Chain and Godfroy proceeding with the same Indians to Miamis,
1 Meni Chesne, interpreter.
694 Sir William Johnson Papers
with whom they acted in conjunction to destroy that Garrison:
Then parted for Ouiatinon intending to act the same barbarous
part there, being in their way to Illinois
We then Questioned the said informer if we could depend
upon the above said inteligences, or from whence they were
derived? Answered, that Niniway a Potewatemis Chief sent
for Isidore Chain brother to the said Miny Chain the evening
that he the said Niniway arrived with Ensn. Schlosser1 Command-
ing Officer of Sl. Josephs and acquainted him of what his Brother
Miny had done at Miamis; that the said Isidore in tears replied
that he wished to God his Brother might die in that place, for
as soon as he arrived at Detroit he would be hanged And that
the said Informer Declares to have been present when all this
was told by the said Niniway in the house of the abovesaid Miny
Chain
Signed
Cezar Cormick
Witnesses
James Sterling
Sam Fleming
GEORGE ETHERINGTON TO HENRY GLADWIN
Contemporary Copy
Extracts of Letters, declarations &c
Extract of a Letter from Captain George Etherington Com-
mandant of Michilimackinac dated
Michilimackinac June 1 2th. 1763
Sir
Notwithstanding what I wrote you in my last that all the
Savages were arrived, and that every thing seemed in perfect
1 Ensign Francis Schlosser.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
Indian Uprising 695
tranquillity, Yet on the second Instant the Chipaways who live
in a plain near this Fort assembled to play ball as they had done
almost every day since their arrival, they played from Morning
till noon then throwing their Ball close to the Gate and Observing
Lieutenant Lesley1 and me a few paces out of it, they came behind
us, seized, and carried us into the woods.
In the meantime the rest rushed into the Fort, where they
found their Squaws whom they had priviously Planted there,
with their Hatchets hid under their Blankets which they took
and in an Instant Killed Lieu1. Garnet2 and fifteen Rank and
file and a Treader named Tracey, they wounded two and took
the rest of the Garrison Prisoners five of which they have since
killed.
They made prisoners of all the English Traders and robbed
them of every thing they had, but they Offered no violence to
any of the Persons or properties of the French-Men.
When this Massacre was over Messrs. Langlad3 and Farli4
the Interpreter came down to the place where Lieu*. Lesley and
me were prisoners, and on their giving themselves as security to
return us when demanded, they obtained leave for us to go to
the Fort under a Guard of Savages, which gave time by the
assistance of the Gentlemen abovementioned to send for the
Outawas who came down on the first notice and were very much
displeased at what the Chipaways had done.
Since the arrival of the Outawas they have done every thing
in their power to serve us and with what prisoners the Chipaways
have given them and what they have bought, I have now with me
Lieu*. Lesley and Eleven privates and the other four of the Gar-
rison who are yet living remain in the hands of the Chipaways.
The Chipaways who are superior in number to the Outawas
have declared in Council to them that if they do not remove us
1 Lieutenant William Leslye of the 60th regiment.
2 Lieutenant Jamet (Jamette).
3 Charles Langlade. See Parkman, Conspiracy of Pontiac, 1 :355, note.
4 Jac. Farly, post interpreter.
696 Sir William Johnson Papers
out of the Fort that they will cutt off all communication to this
post, by which means all the convoys of Merchants from Montreal,
La Bay,1 S*. Josephs, and the upper posts would perish. But
if the news of your posts being attacked (which they say was
the reason they took up the Hatchet here) be false and you can
send up a strong reinforcement with provision &ca. accompanied
by some of your Savages I believe the Post might be re-Estab-
lished again.
Since this affair happened two Canoes arrived from Montreal
which put it in my power to make a present to the Outawa Nation
who very well deserve any thing that can be done for them.
I have been very much Obliged to Mrs. Langlad and Farli
the Interpreter as likewise to the Jesuit for the many good Offices
they have done us on this Occasion, the Priest seems inclinable
to go down to your post for a day or two which I am very glad
of as he is a Very good Man and has a Great dale2 to say with
the Savages hereabout who will beleive every thing He tells
them on his return which I hope will be soon.
The Outawas say they will take Lieu1. Lesley, me and the
Eleven Men which I mentioned before was in their hands, up
to their Village and there keep us here till they hear what is done
at your post, they having sent this Canoe for that purpose. I
refer you to the Priest for the Particulars of this Melancholy
affair, and am
D'. S'.
To Major Henry Gladwin
Commandant of Detroit
, Yours very sincenly
oigned ~ ^
Geo: Etherington
P.S: The Indians that are to carry the Priest to Detroit, will
not undertake to land him at the Fort but at some of the Indian
Villages near it, so that you must not take it amiss that he does
not pay you the first visit, and I once more beg that nothing may
1 Fort Edward Augustus, Green Bay (La Baye, La Baye des Puans),
Wisconsin.
2 Deal.
Indian Uprising 697
stop your sending him back the next day after his Arrivel if Pos-
sible, as we shall be at a great loss for want of him ; And I make
no doubt that you will do all in your Power to make peace, as
you see the situation we are in, and send up provisions as soon as
possible and ammunition as what we had was plundered by the
Savages.
Adieu G: E
JOURNAL OF JAMES GORRELL
Contemporary Copy *
[Oct. 12J761-Jtme 14 J 763]
A Journall of Leuv*. James Gorrells2 Proceedings from the
Day he took Post at Fort Edward Augustus3 (or La Bay)
being the 12th October 1 761 To the Present date Hereof [June
14, 1763].
Arrived at Fort Edward Augustus,4 the 14th Captn Bellfour5
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 (another copy in
Indian Records, Vol. 7, pp. 5-11). This copy, apparently communicated
to Johnson, is a portion of the longer journal, a copy of which from Francis
Parkman's transcript is printed in Collections of State Historical Society
of Wisconsin, I (1855): 25-48. There are significant variations, how-
ever, and the marginal listing of gifts was not given in the printed version.
Only a few of the significant variations will be noted.
2 Lieutenant James Gorrell of the 60th. regiment.
3 Fort Edward Augustus, Green Bay (La Baye, La Baye des Puans),
Wisconsin.
4 The published journal began at Detroit, Sept. 8, 1761, describing
the journey to the fort; "found the fort quite rotten, the stockade ready
to fall, the houses without cover, our fire wood far off, and none to be got
when the river closed."
5 Captain Henry Balfour of the 80th. regiment, commissioned a Captain
in the 1st regiment, Oct. 8, 1761. The published version here relates:
"The 1 4th. Capt. Belfour departed, leaving me with one Serg't, and Cor-
poral, and fifteen privates at La Bay, a French interpreter, and two English
traders — viz: Messrs. McKay from Albany and Goddard from Montreal."
698 Sir William Johnson Papers
Set out for Sl. Joseph Leaving Provisions &c with me as
Returns of Provisions1
Gave
100 lb Powder
80 lb Led
1 Blankett
12 Knives2
1 The following paragraphs from the published version not only show
the relationship of the mission to Johnson, but something of the problem
of supplies.
"When I left Detroit for St. Josephs, and had received my orders from
Capt. Donald Campbell, of ye 60th. or Royal American Regt., I found
in his orders very little respecting Indians, for which reason I applied to
him to know if he had any other instructions, upon which he referred me
to Sir Wm. Johnson, who was then there, to whom I applied. [Sir William,
then holding a conference at Detroit, had issued instructions for officers
commanding at the posts. Johnson Papers, 3:473.] He told me verbally
that unless I did my best to please the Indians I had better not go there;
he told me he would leave the belts of wampum with Capt. Campbell as
soon as the Council was over, to be sent to the different posts, though I
never received any, as I imagine the captain never had it in his power to
send them. Understanding shortly after my taking command of the post,
that there was a vast number of Indians dependant on it, more than was
ever thought of, I found that I should send to Detroit for belts to give
them on their arrival in the spring. For this purpose, I at three different
times attempted sending expresses, both by way of St. Josephs and Misha-
makinak, but I could never do it.
"Therefore, as I could not get any from Detroit, and could not do
without it, I was obliged after getting what Mr. Goddard had, to borrow
of the Indian squaws, and pay them some twelve hundred for a thousand.
I also made use of some I had from Lieut. Brehm, which was for his own
use. That borrowed from the Indians, I was obliged to repay on the arrival
of the first trader that brought wampum. So that I had six belts made,
one for each nation that visited that place, but I found that some nations
required two, some three, and some four, as they had towns. The French
in their time, always gave them belts, rum and money, presents by which
they renewed their peace annually."
2 In the margin of the manuscript at this point.
Indian Uprising 699
Nothing of any materiall Acctl. Happened from this to May
Ensuing, Only some few Young Men of the Different Tribes
or Nations of Indians came at Different times to know how they
wou'd be Received & Demanded Ammunition &c to whom I
gave at Different times as *p Am1, in Margin & also sent some
flower to Some of their Old Men who they said was Sick in the
Woods, There being no Chief here at our Arrivall I had no
Council with them untill May the 23d 1 762 In which I delivered
them the Following Speech To the Follavine Chiefs & one of
the three Puans Chief To whom I gave Belts of Wampum as
Also Strings for the Return of Prisiners Agreeable to my
orders —
Brothers
I am glad to see you all Assembled Here at this time, I en-
deavour'd to have Seen you Last Fall, but was prevented by
Loosing some Battoes on the Lakes coming from Niagara, which
made me very uneasy As I had good things to tell you which
does Interest You very much Therefore I desire you'll be very
Attentive to what I am going to say to you & that nothing may
prevent your hereing me I open Your Eyes & Ears With these
Belts that you may hear and understand plainly what I shall
tell you now & what your Brethren the English may hereafter
tell you.
Brothers
As you may have lost some of your Brothers in the War which
you imprudently Engaged in with the French Against your
Brethren the English & tho' by it you ought to have brought a
Just indignation upon you we will Condesend so far as to forget
& forgive whatever hath happened, and I am glad to take this
Opportunity to Condole with you for the loss you have mett with
in that unjust War, & at the same time by these Belts I wipe away
all the Blood that was spilt & to Bury all your Brothers Bones
that Remains unburied on the face of the Earth that they may be
700 Sir William Johnson Papers
Removed from your sight and grieve you no more as my inten-
tion for the future is not grieve but Rejoice Amongst you
Brothers
I hope also by these Belts to open a passage to your hearts
so that you may always speak Honistly & truly & drive away
from you all that may be bad that you may be like your Brothers
the English to things (of good) things only, I Light Also a fire
of Pure Friendship & Concord which Affords a heat Sweet &
agreeable to those that come nigh it. I light it for all Indian
Nations that are willing to pertake of its Influence & come under
it's Reach they having pure Friendship with the English & that
nothing may prevent their coming to it I also Clear a great Road
from the R.ising of the Sun to the Setting of the Same, and takes
away Every thing that Obstructs it that all Nations may travill
in it freely and without Danger —
Brothers
As You must know that the Arms of our Great King George
have Intirely Subdued all the French Dominions in Canady As
Also the Just Causes that Obliged him to make them Conquists
In Consequence of which, (& Agreeable to terms of Capitulation
made Last Year by which (as before mentioned) Canady with
all it's Dependences where Acceeded to the English King my
Master & your Father) I am sent Here to keep the best order &
Strictest Justice amongst his Subjects as Also to Protect all the
Indian Nations that will by their good Behavour make them-
selves Worthy of his Royal Bounty, He hath also Recommended
it to all his subjects who are come Amongst you to Trade to
bring whatever Nessaries you may want and Save you the
trouble of going so far for them Yourselves; In Consequence of
which I have brought one along with me who [will] you will
find will use your People & Sell Every thing as Cheap as pos-
sible to them which some of them have Already Experanced;
Indian Uprising 701
Therefore I hope you will on your parts behave well & give us
Convincing Proofs of your good Intentions to keep a good
Understanding with him by paying him always whatever he
may Credit you As your Brothers the English do —
If You have any Just Complaints against him or any other
English or French Traders, or people otherwise employ'd let
me know & you may depend on having Justice done you (As I
before mentioned) it is for them purposes I am sent Here, which
you may Plainly see by my bringing but few Men with me, &
always depend I shall be Glad to Serve you in doing Justice —
In one word by these other belts I Renew & Confirm all the
Treaties & Covenants of peace which formerly Subsisted Be-
tween Your Ansisstors & ours which was Renewed Lately by
your Neighbouring Chiefs at Niagara & Detroit I Expect you
will hold that Belt fast & often Record it in your minds as by
that means you'll Remember your Promise & Study your Intrest
in keeping it, which will ever give us Convincing proofs of your
Friendship & good meaning towards us, I also Recommend it
to you to take care & Use the French who are or may come
amongst to trade well, & Look upon them as our friends &
Brothers As they are Subjects to his Majesty (King George)
& we form One Body & Blood, & since we are Joyned by
Friendship, that henceforth we shall be all one people Therefore
I expect In all your Actions & where Ever you meet them you'll
use them as his Majesty King Georges Subjects —
I gave them as follows
6000 Wampum
150 lb. Led
200 lb. Powder
4 yds. Strouds
3 Shirts
12 Vermilion1
1 In the margin of the manuscript at this point.
702 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brothers
In Consequence of this & the Severall Treaties held with you
and your Neighbouring Brothers at Niagara, Detroit & Mesha-
makanak These Strings are to Open your Eyes & your hearts
for your Good to Follow their Example & bring in all the English
prisoners who yet Remains with you or any of your people that
they may be Returned to Us, as you know they are our own
Blood, and you know it wou'd grieve you to have your Blood
with any Nation, As such you must Expect it grieve us & by this
Behavour we shall be convinced of your Sincere Friendship &
Affection for your great Father & our King who will be very
angry if you don't Comply to this Request & is able to send as
meny men as there is trees in the Wood to Oblige you to a
Compliance —
To which they answered (that is the Follivans1 who's Land
this Fort Stands on) That they ware thankfull for the Good
Speech I had made & for the Good Road I had Given them, as
also for the presents I had made them, & Let me know they
were very poor having Lost Three Hundred Warriers lately with
the Small pox, & most of their Chiefs in the Late War which
they had been Engaged in by the Council of their Friench Com-
mandant Here, Against the English & that they were very glad
to find the English were pleased to pardon them as they did not
expect it, and were Conscious they did not Merit it But that I
might Depend they wou'd at all times adhair to Whatever In-
structions the English Commandants shod. give them for the
future which they always had Done to the French Comanders
before They also beged that I wou'd send for a Gun Smith to
mend their Guns (As they was poor & their Arms out of Order,)
as the French had always done for them & as their Neighbouring
Brothers had that favour granted them by the English both at
De Troit & Misanamakanak they Expected the Same. —
They further said the French Commander here always (besides
other presents) Gave them Rum, as a true token of his Friend-
Menominees (Follavains),
Indian Uprising 703
ship, they Answered in Regard of prisoners that they had none
amongst them nor never had for what English prisoners they
had taken during the War they always left them with the French
Generall at Montreal, otherwise they wo'd return them as their
Brothers had done
They Expressed great Satisfaction at hearing of English
Traders coming amongst them & seemed Desirous they should
Continue to come as they found by Experience that the Goods
were one half Cheaper then when the French were amongst them
& said they wo'd Always use the English Tradors well & Oblige
their Young Men to pay their Credits & Assur'd me they would
partake with Willingness of the Influance of the Pure Fire of
Friendship I had lighted for them there being now so good a
Road to it & that they thanked me for my Advice, in desiring
them Honestly & Sincarely to Speak their Sentiments which I
might Depend they [ipo'J] Always would & wou'd Acquaint
me of any bad Talk that might be amongst them or their Neigh-
boring Indians, As there was five Nations more who Depended
on this place, and also Returned thanks to the Great man above
for granting them such a fine day for their Council which they
looked upon as a good Omen of Lasting Peace
To which I gave the Following Answer
That I wou'd write *p the first Opportunity to the Commander
at De Troit who Commanded me, for a Smith as I did not doubt
but he wou'd send one as soon as Possible
To the Request of Rum I told them their Great Father King
George who knows what is good for all his Children knowing
they were poor by being so long at War & Neglected their Hunt-
ing had ordered no Rum to be brought up to sell to Indians
(Least it might Cause them to Neglect the Cloathing of Wives
& Families) until Such time they might be Cloathed which I
hoped might be in a Year or two but that I had none now but
Expected some Soon Which when it would come I wou'd give
them Some Share of it —
704 Sir William Johnson Papers
The Puan Chief Returned the Same Answer with the same
Request with this Addition that he wou'd send that good Road
(meaning the Belt of Whompum I had given him) to the other
two Puan Chiefs & did not Doubt but they wou'd be glad to
see me & wou'd come —
I Return'd them the same Answer —
Gave
1000 Wampum
30 lb. Powder
30 lb. Led
2 Yds. Stroud
1 Shirt &
2 lb. Vermilion1
No Indians Arrived here untill the 29th when a Party of
Taways2 who lives at little Detroit came I spake to them in the
same manner I had done the rest & gave them Strings of Wam-
pum for the Return of Prisoners if any amongst them with other
Presents, as they lay Right on the way between ye Mishamakanak
they Promised they wo'd Use the English well or French Com-
ing Hither they went away well Pleased —
Gave
9000 Wampum
200 lb Powder
100 lb Led
6 yds Stroud
15 ,b Vermilion1
June 5th Embassadors from the Sack & Reynards3 with the
Chief belonging to the Second Puan Town came here, To whom
1 In the margin of the manuscript at this point.
2 Toways, or Ottawas.
3 Foxes.
Indian Uprising 705
I made the same Speech as to the former and also gave them Each
a Belt with Strings of Wampum & Presents as to the Former,
Their Answer were as the Former and a Demand for English
Traders to go to their Towns & gave me full Assurance that they
wou'd Protect them, In Answer to wch. I told them I wou'd write
to my Commander at Detroit & Expected an Answer Early
Enough to send them Traders — 1
June 24th — Came Embassadors from the Chipways Nation
to Negotiate a Quarrel with Followvines Respecting a Man they
the Chipways had killed at Mishamakanak Belonging to the
Follawvine Nations
Gave
10 lb Powder
1 0 »> Led
4 yds Stroud
1 Shirt &
2 lb Vermilion2
Bringing with them a Letter from Lieu1 Lessley3 Commanding
at Mishamakanak In which he warmly Recommended it to me
to Assist the Chipways in that Negotiation As it wou'd be very
Prejudicial to the Carrying on any trade with these Indians if
any Such Difference Shoud Arrise Amoungst them, As by that
means there wou'd no open Communication between Misha-
makanak & this Place to wch purpose I call'd the Chiefs belong-
ing to this place Together & was under a nessity of Giving them
the Articles Mentioned in the Margin —
1 There follow three paragraphs in the printed version, omitted in this,
which tell of Capt. Campbell's advice as to the policy of limiting gifts to
only what was necessary. There is also a compilation of the numbers of
the tribes depending on the post, totaling 39,100.
2 In margin of manuscript at this point.
3 Lieutenant William Leslye of the 60th regiment.
706 Sir William Johnson Papers
The 25th Mr Hutchins1 came with Mr Crohans Instructions
to Enquire into the Situation of the Indian Affairs it being Captn.
Campbells2 orders to me to Assist him; I called what Chiefs of
the Indians that where here Consisting of the Follavines, Saks,
& Reynards Nations who was here at that time; when he had
let them know his Business they Demanded of him Medals,
Colours & Commissions as the French Superintendants had for-
merly given them —
To Which he Reploy'd he wou'd make a Report of it to the
Supertendants who sent him & partly Assured them they sho'd
be sent for which they Since had frequently made Demands of
[since] —
Gave
2000 Wampum
4 yds Stroud3
The 1 2th July — Came a Reynard who said he was a Chief
& Demanded Leave to purchase Seven Barrells of Powder &
presented me with a Belt Wrampum I had Reason to Suspect
his Intentions not to be good denied him Liberty to purchase
any more than wou'd Serve him to hunt untill I shou'd have a
Council with their Chief or King & gave him a Belt desiring
his King might come to me —
Gave
9000 Wampum
200 «> Powder
150 lb Led4
The 6th. of August — Three Chiefs of the Puans with four
Embassadors from the Avoy5 Nation of Indians I made the
1 Thomas Hutchins of the 60th regiment of Royal Americans.
2 Captain John Campbell of the 27th regiment.
3 In margin of manuscript at this point.
4 Ibid.
5 The Folles Avoines (Menominees).
Indian Uprising 707
same Speech to them as to the Rest, The Chief of the third town
belonging to the Puans Brought me a Large Belt of Wampum
Confirming what the both others had said before Letting me
know he had seen the Belts I had given the Rest, —
6 Yards Stroud
4 Shirts
10 ,b Vermilion
2 Bed Gowns1
He declared he had never been at War [with] against the
English nor the French Commander cou'd never perswade him
to it ( He brought the other Indian Chiefs to Confirm what he
said) As he never knew any harm the English had done him, he
made the same Demands for English Traders to come up with
the same promises of protection for them & also of a Gun Smith
& Rum —
The Avoys then spake & said they had come a great ways &
had brought on[e]2 belt but came to see if I wou'd shake hands
& forgive them as I had done the other Nations their Brothers as
they had been at War against us at Quebeck: I gave them also
Strings & Belts for Return of prisoners & presents as to the
others with provisions to carry them Home & settled matters
Amicably with them they said their King wou'd come in Spring
& see me
Gave
3000 Wampum
20 lb Powder
1 0 lb Led
4 yds Stroud
6 Shirts
7 lb Vermilion
a *pr Colours
1 Blankett1
1 In margin of manuscript at this point.
2 "No" belts, in the printed version.
708 Sir William Johnson Papers
August the 1 3th Came the King of the Sack Nation of Indians
To whom I made a Speech to the same purpose I had done to the
Rest ; & his Answer the same & that he said he had Seen The good
Road I had given his Brothers & also his Embassador But as he
understood I wou'd not lett any English come up amongst His
Nation untill he came to see me, I being the first English Officer
he had ever seen, for which purpose he had left home in Company
of Two Hundred & Fifty of his Warriers In Order to waite
on me & to know my Commands & also to get English Traders
if I pleased to Let them go; but news came after him that His
Town was Threatned with an Evasion from the Isle Anvix1
Indians & he was under a necessity of sending his Men back
to guard their Woman & Children & only had brought a few
Servants with him & hoped I wou'd let English Traders come
up to his people & promised they sho'd be Returned He said
that as I now had given them a good Road he wou'd take Care
to keep it open & Clear & if any logs or trees shou'd Start up in
it he wou'd not only Cut them down but also pull them up by the
Roots —
He brought with him a pair of French Colours Flying on
Board of his Canoe he Excused himself by saying he did know
any better & hoped I wou'd Excuse him & give him a Stand of
English Colours & he wou'd Burn the French Ones which I did
I also gave him a Belt of Wampum & other Presents as *p
Margin he was the only Indian that approved of Rum not being
Sent amongst the Indians he showed me a Commission Signed
by the French superintendant giving him the Command of the
Whole Nation a Copy of which I sent to Capt. Campbell
desiring him to send him one promised the Indian at the same
that he shd. have One from the English
1 Isle Anoix in printed version, where footnote suggests it was a render-
ing of Illinois ; or that the Indians came from an Isle aux Noix or Walnut
Island.
Indian Uprising 709
Gave
20 lb Powder
10 lb Led
1 ,b Vermilion1
The 2 1 sl — Came a party of Indians from a place call'd by
the French Millwackey2 for to Ask Credit of the Traders which
they were Refused as they are said properly Belonging to
Mishamakanak They also made a Complaint of the Traders
who was amongst them [that they also]3 I desired them to go
to Misamakanak & make their Complaint & they would be
Redressed, They promised to come here in Spring & trade —
I made some Small presents to them & told them if they did
they wou'd be well Used —
Gave
3000 Wampum
20 lb Powder
10 lb Led
4 yd Stroud
6 Shirts
6 lb Vermilion
a pair Coulours
2 Blanketts1
The 25 th — Came the King of the Reynards To whom I made
the same Speech as to the Rest He Answered to the same
purpose of the King of the Sacks with the same Demands, only
1 In margin of manuscript at this point.
2 Milwaukee, an Indian town.
3 Words italicized and in brackets crossed out in manuscript.
710 SiV William Johnson Papers
he did not mention his Bringing any Warriers with him, But he
let me know he had Routed those Bad men who Demanded the
Seven Barrells of powder understands. I was not pleased with
them & promised all Traders that came among his people pro-
tection I made him a present of a Stand of Colours & other things
mentioned in the Margin he further Said they were Impostors
for he did not send them to me for the powder & said I did
very Right in not Letting them have any —
The 1 st September — the Chiefs of the Follavines Came &
Demanded Credit for their Young men, which the Traders
here granted them on their Chiefs giving their word for their
paying it in the Spring when they would Return from Hunting —
Gave
8000 Wampum
80 lb Powder
25 "> Led
4 Yds Stroud
13 Shirts
4 ,b Vermilion
one Pair Colours1
From this to the First of March 1 763 nothing Extrordinary
happened (only the Indians who belonged to this place came in
several times during the Winter for Necessarys) when Twelve
Warriors of the souse2 came here this Sous Nation is Certainly
the greatest Nation on the Continant of North America it Appeers
by the French & other Acc,s. & also by their own Words that they
have upwards of Thirty Thousand Fighting Men Not above Tow
Thousand of which has Fire Arms the Rest intirely depending
1 In margin of manuscript at this point.
2 Sioux. Johnson spoke of them as the most numerous of the Northern
Indians, little known to the English, and well affected toward the Western
Indians. Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:584.
Indian Uprising 71 1
on Bows, Arrows & Darts which they make use of with more
Dexterity than any other Indian Nation They can shoot the
largest Wild beasts in the Woods at Seventy or Eighty Yards
Distance they are Remarkable for their Dancing The other
Nations takes their Fashions from them, As we do from the French,
they are Bred Warriers from their Infancy & keeps Regular
Guards & are always Allert, I made them the following Speech
& gave them Two Belts of Wampum with other goods Mentioned
in the Margine, That I was glad to see them & Rehersed to them
partly the same as I had said to the Other Nations Mentioned
before —
To which they Answered as the Rest, & said they were sent by
their Chiefs with two Belts to me & a Letter wrote by a French
Trader among them this last Winter In which they expressed
great Joy at hearing the English was here & Expressed a Great
desire of making a firm peace with the English As they very much
wanted Traders to be sent amongst them, & promised to protect
them as they said they had Thirty Thousand Men which they said
was at my Command they said the Other Nations were but their
Dogs & if they Offered to hurt the Road I had now given they
wou'd Cut them off immediately They told they found the
Road very Bad & wou'd have turn'd back but mett with a
Follavine Chife who told them I wou'd be very glad to see them
& provaled on them to come but as they now had got a
good Road they cou'd travell on it without fear & hoped to come
here in the Spring again with their King,
With Regard to traders I told them I could not Oblige any to
go as it was out of the Limits Canady But I Expected the Ensuing
Year that there wou'd be English Traders from Messasspa with
them which wou'd be more Convenient for them —
March the 25th Received Account from Mr Lottridge1 (Who
Lived All this Winter in the Trading way up the River with the
Indians) that he understood one Goddard2 a Trader from Mon-
1 Captain John Lottridge of the Indian service.
2 James Stanley Goddard.
712 Sir William Johnson Papers
treal Sent Orders to his Clark a Cannadian (who lay at the same
place with Mr Lottridge) to send word to the Indians at Millacky
Desiring them not to come here but Stay at Home & he wou'd
send goods to them in the Spring tho' Contrary to what I told
them last Fall1 of which he never informed me its' also a place
where There is no Garrison —
Upon Enquirey I found Mr Gouchea the Kings Interpreter had
wrote all those Letters for Mr Goddard in French to his Clark
wch. the Interpreter Confessed upon my Examining him, & said
the Letters imported what I have Mentioned Above This &
several like Actions Confirmed my Supission of him, as both he
& Mr Goddard had all this Winter with impudence to me tho'
I was & am well Assured The Kings Interpretor was prompt
to it by Mr Goddard for wch. Reason I sent for him & all the
Traders here in the Winter & let them know I immagin'd the
Kings Interpretor was perswaded to such Behaviour Desiring them
at their Perill not to offer to Employ him for any Business what-
ever not even after I had Discharged him As I had been
Inform'd Mr Goddard had Offered him Ten shillings Sterling
"p Day to go to England with him for an Interpretor & to take
one Carroy a half French Man Belonging to this Nation &
Pretends to be a Chief Amongst them tho' upon Examination
I find he was no Chief & only thought much of by the French for
being Dexterous in going to War against the English — Mr
Gouchea after Mr Goddard had promised these great things never
did nor wou'd be of service to me & I was under a Nessesity to
Apploy to Mr Moran2 who sent up the River to Mr Lottridge for
Thomas Carty who Arrived here this Day, to be a Check to him —
I having told the Millwackey Indians Last Fall that no
Traders wou'd go Amongst them from here but desired them
to Apply to Misamakanak for a Trader as also knowing the
1 There is a hiatus here in the printed version, from which the next
two paragraphs are omitted.
2 Edward Moran, an Indian trader.
Indian Uprising 713
Macamakank Indians Where amongst them who had their Credits
at Sl Joseph or there & that wou'd be a means to Induce them to
trade their Credit which Appered to me as Mr Goddards Schame,
made me hinder him & all others from going Thither from here —
Nothing Extroardaniary happend untill the 1 8th May only some
few Indians belonging to this Place Came in Several times &
three days Ago most part of this Nation came This Day I was
informed that some of the young Men had threatned to Attact the
Fort & as there was some Taways here did not doubt but they
wou'd help them upon which I called the Chiefs of both Parties
to me & told them what I heard of their Design the Toways1
declared they knew nothing of it which I Believe was true, The
Follavines Chiefs said if any Thing made their Young Men
Uneasy it was On Accout of the Colours & Medals Mr Hutchins
had Promised them Last Summer which I could tell them when
they wou'd get them —
Gave
3000 Wampum
30 lb Powder
30 lb Led
2 Y* Strod
6 Shirts2
A few days afterwards the Old Chiefs came with whom I had
a Counsil & in it by a Belt Wampum Renewed all former
Treates by me made with them they all Appeared well pleased
only wanted the Colours & Medals & was to them Promised they
also That is the Chiefs was much Displeased at the Carroys
getting from Mr Goddard a fine Embroidered Suit of Cloths
which was before mentiond was in the French time, by the French
Accounted a great Chief tho never was so esteemed by the
Indians —
1 Ottawas.
2 In margin of manuscript at this point.
714 Sir William Johnson Papers
I Changed my Interpretor the 20th Ins1. & Employed an
English Lad Named Thomas Carty at which the most Essencial
Indians were well Pleased —
June 1 4th 1 763 — The Traders Came down from the Sack
Country & Confirm'd the News We had heard of Lansingh &
his Son being killed by three theie with them Came some Puans
& Four Young Men with one Chief of the Avoy Nation Came
to Demand Traders to go Amongst them as Other Nations had
with the same Promises of Protiction As Others &c: they
Promised that four Hundred & Fifty of their Men wo'd be down
in August Next to Trade I gave them Presents as 'p Ace' in
Margin
6 Shirts
2 Strouds of
Aurora
1 Large Kettle
Some Powder &
Led &c.
a Belt Wampum
20001
INDORSED:
Lieut Gorrells Journal
of proceedings at Le Baye
from 1761 to 1763 —
EntA in Ind« Reed Vol. 9*
Page 5. —
1 In margin of manuscript at this point. Here the manuscript journal
ends. The printed version goes to Aug. 1 6, 1 763, when Gorrell reached
Montreal. It also includes three letters of Capt. George Etherington to
Gorrell.
Indian Uprising 715
RICHARD WINSTON TO DETROIT MERCHANTS
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Letter from Richard Winston Merchf.
at Sl. Josephs, To the English Merchts. at Detroit
dated SK Joseph 19th. June 1763
Gentn.
I address myself to you all not knowing who is alive or who is
dead, I have only to Inform you that by the Blessing of the
Almighty, and the Help of Mr. Louison Chevalie I escaped
being killed, when this unfortunate Garrison was Massacred Mr.
Hombock and me being hid in the house of the said Chevalies for
four days & nights Mr. Hamback is brought by the Savages to
the Illinois likewise Mr. Chim unfortunate me remains here
Captive with the Savages, I must say that I meet with no bad usage
howsoever I would that I was with some Christian or other, I
am quite Naked, and Mr. Castacrow who is indebted to Mr.
Cole, would not give me an Inch to save me from Death who the
day before the Massacre here Offered to pay me part of said
Debt, but since that deny'd in the presence of Mr. Chevalie that
he owed anything, untill I produced his note, he then said that
his Note was no order to pay any part of said debt to me I am
informed that Castacrow has information that Mr. Cole2 was
killed on his way from Niagara ; I have nothing to say Concerning
our Enemy here but that they recommend to the Savages at
Detroit to quit their firing upon the Fort at Detroit, that as the
Six Nations begun the war they might persist in it. We are in-
formed that at Miamis Mr. Holms3 and part of his Garrison were
killed the other part carried down the Wabach to joyn the Garrison
of Ouiatinon, and carried all to the Illinois; at Ouiatinon there
was not one killed but all taken prisoners
Gentn. Your unfortunate friend
Richd Winston
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39 ; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
2 Lieutenant Colonel Edward Cole.
8 Ensign Robert Holmes of the 60th regiment.
716 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDIANS TO JAMES BIRD AND THOMAS MCKEE
Contemporary Copy1
2) '•« June 1763
Brothers —
I am glad that you have told us of your Circumstances of
your intended Journey to Wyoming in order to bring away those
white People who are Settling at that Place, but that you were
Stopped from proceeding by the bad news you have heard. —
Brothers, I am glad that you have acquainted me with what you
know. — this gladness I feel in my heart, and Nutimus, Tepas-
cowan, & Wawpoxay do the same, & if any thing happens we will
let you know as brothers ought to do. —
A string of 3 Rows
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Albany June 26th. 1763
Sir
I was honoured with your Excellencys letter of ye. 22d.3 last
night, and am not only concerned, but equally sensible of the
barbarity committed by the Indians on the unhappy Gentlemen
& Traders who fell into their hands. — I make no doubt from
the Character of Major Gladwin4 he will use his utmost to
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6. The heading of the
manuscript reads: "Answer to the above message [June 10, 1763; ante
p. 692] from the above mentioned Nations [Six Nations, Delawares and
Muncies] to Col. Bird & Capt. McKee brot. by Telinemut & delivered
in Delaware the 2bt June 1 763 Interpreted by Job ChilloTva}) as follows
in vizt."
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 34, Vol. 39.
3 In Johnson Papers, 4:150-52.
4 Major Henry Gladwin, commandant at Detroit, had to be very much
on his guard during the winter of 1 764. In August of 1 764 reinforce-
ments finally got through to Detroit and Gladwin was allowed to return
to England.
Indian Uprising 7 1 7
maintain the Garrison of Detroit until ye. reinforcements arrive,
as no Clemency can be expected from such an Enemy, in case
the Place could not be maintained. — The Hostilities committed
by the Ottawawaes &ca. gives me the greatest concern especially as
I know they are not easily induced to Stop, and am apprehensive
that the success they have hitherto met with, will encourage them
to prosecute their designs, provided they cannot receive a timely
check, at the same time t'is What I have often been induced to
expect, knowing yl. they will consider freindship as verry trifleing
when unattended with Gifts which might bind them by Motives
of Interest to preserve peace. I am in hopes that the Steps I have
already, & shall continue to take to prevent the Defection of the
Six Nations will be attended with Success, As the Messengers
whom I sent to Onondaga are yesterday returned with assurances
of their inclination to remain quiet, wh. I beleive may be purchased
at a moderate expence, Notwithstanding the Invitations they have
received from the rest. —
The Lawsuit concerning the upper Mohawks property haveing
yesterday ended in a Manner verry dissatisfactory to them
because as is alledged matters in equity cannot be considered at
Common Law, and a Pattent however fraudulently obtained is
a Claim superior to all Justice and reason. I Shall therefore
return home to Morrow, when, after quieting the minds of the
Indians (if possible) by assurances that they will have Justice
done to them by his Majesty, as it seems a Chancery Suit cannot
be carried on by reason that all the Parties are not within the
Province, I shall then use all my endeavours to gain intelligence
& preserve peace between ye. Indians of the Six Nations & us,
to the utmost of my power & Interest. —
The backwardness of the Inhabitants of this Citty has greatly
disapointed me notwithstanding the encouragement offerred, but
the orders I sent to Schenectady & along the Mohawk River has
been more effectual, as I have received a return of ab*. 25
Volunteers from ye. former and am informed that above that
Number have been procured and marched from Conajohare, and
718
Sir William Johnson Papers
as far, as I can proceed by my authority unsupported Your Ex-
cellency may rely on my endeavours to procure any other assistance
and that I shall use everry measure for the security of the
Frontiers & the assisting his Majesty s Troops. — but I must
observe to yr. Excellency that there numbers of the new Settlers
hereabouts, destitute of Amunition & not able to procure it being
verry Scarce & dear. —
I have the honour to be with the
Utmost respect,
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath &ca.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
L.S.1
New York, 26* June 1763.
Sir
The Enclosed were forwarded home, under Cover from Colonel
Bouquet, and I now Transmit them to You.
The Defeat of Lieut. CuylerV Detachment Seems to have
Raised the Spirits of the Indians; But I hope We shall be in a
Condition to Convince them of their Rashness in Attempting to
Follow their Blow. —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 Lieutenant Cornelius Cuyler of the 55th regiment. For the destruction
of his detachment see Journal of Pontiacs Conspiracy, 1 763, published
by Clarence M. Burton, Detroit, Mich.
Indian Uprising 719
All the Remains of the 42d. & 77th. Regiments are on their
March towards Fort Pitt; and Colonel Bouquet is by this time
on his Route thither, with the Companys I had Sent before. —
The Enclosed will fully Inform you of all the Intelligence I
have had from that Quarter; but I am Impatient to Hear from
the Detroit, as the Letter I Received from Major Gladwin was
of so very old a Date. —
If you think that any Immediate Use, on this Occasion, can
be made of the Mohawks, or any other of the Well affected
Indians, You will, of Course, Acquaint me; and Use such Steps as
you think best to Encourage them. — I Find by a Conversation
Captain Ourry1 has had with One Hudson, an Indian (now a
prisoner at Fort Bedford)2 that the Indians to the Southward
are very Sensible of the great Weight you have with the Five
Nations; and Adds that he is Sure they will go no where, but
where you Desire them. —
I am, with great Regard
Sir,
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Jeff Amherst
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
INDORSED:
June 26* 1 763
Letter from Sir Jeff Amherst
with Croghans Intelligence3
Entd. in Vol. VIII Indn. Records
Page - 444 -
1 Captain Lewis Ourry of the 60th regiment.
2 On the headwaters of the Juniata River, Bedford County, Pa.
3 Croghan's intelligence of June 1 , 1 763.
720 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM THOMAS McKEE
Extract1
Fort Augusta 28lh June 1763
Sir
The last I wrote you was from PhiladIa.2 from whence I
set out for Wyoming wth. Col. Bird,3 but we were stopped at
Kittaning Falls upon hearing the disagreeable accts. from Pitts-
burgh of the Indns. committing Murders there. Col Bird, and I
thought proper to Send a Message to the Indns. on Susquahana a
Copy of which I have inclosed wth. their answer, as also another
answer returned to a Speech from the Governor.
From what I can gather from them, it seems to bid fair for
a general Indian War unless some speedy Remedy be immediately
applied
I am &c —
Thos. McKee —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS4
[May 29-June 29, 1763]
May 29th. — Sunday Evening 3 Conajoharees arrived with a
Belt of Wampum to acquaint me yl. ye. Govr. of Philadelphia
had sent a Black Belt of Wampum to let ye. Six Nations know that
there were a number of ye. New Englanders Settled at Skahan-
dowana & defyed any body to remove them, Said Belt was sent to
Ondaga, and they Sent another to acquaint me thereof, wh. ye.
Conajoharees did in presence of ye. Cayugas who were then as-
sembled in my Room. —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 See McKee to Johnson, June 2, 1763, Johnson Papers, 4:132.
3 Colonel James Bird. See James Bird and Thomas McKee to Indians,
June 10, 1763.
4 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 721
D°. Die — the Chenussios Spoke with 3 Strings & 2 Belts. —
with ye. Strings they assured me their People would take care &
not hurt any of ye. Inhabitants, Cattle or any thing else on their
return. —
The first Belt was to beg some Cloathing & Amunition for ye.
Warriors also paint, who were resolved to go and get Prisoners to
replace ye. 2 Men Murdered last Fall. —
The 2d. Belt was to acquaint me that the Mississagaes had
desired a Meeting with them, which they put of until they had
heard wl. was done here by the Six Nations, that there was not a
good Understanding betwn. them since ye. takeing of Niagra.
Sir Wm. Sent a Belt by them to ye. Missagaes desireing them
to remember & abide by the engagements entered into with him at
Detroit, & acquainted them that all Differences wh. had hitherto
been between Us & ye. Six Nations or rather ye. Senecas, were
now Settled & every thing on a good footing &ca.
Sunday June 5lh. Six Inds. from Oghquago arrived here Sent
by their Sachims, after Drinking a Dram & getting some Tobacco
their Speaker Spoke as follows —
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyage —
We are sent to You by our Cheifs on business, but as, on our
way hither, we were [told] x informed of the Death of yr. Father,2
We consulted together, & agreed It was necessary according to
our Method or Customs first to condole with You on that
Melancholly occasion. [nA — ] And as we are but Youngsters,
You will be good enough to excuse our [not being versed in it]
as we are not versed in Matters of y*. kind, being always performed
by our Sachims [s — for any mistakes (wh. for tvant of knowl-
edge) tve may make.]
here they went thro ye. Ceremony, & verry prittyly
w*. 3 Strings of Wampum —
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
2 Christopher Johnson, who died in 1 763.
722 Sir William Johnson Papers
[Then] Sir Wm. returned them thanks & then condoled their
Severall losses occasioned by sickness &ca.
with 3 Strings
The Speaker then addressed Sir Wm. in ye. following Manner
With 3 Strings —
Brother
as ye. Ceremony of condolence is now over, [and that] on both
Sides, We are to tell You that we have always paid ye. greatest
regard to yr. Severall admonitions given to our Cheifs for these
many Years past, in wh. we have found our Interests among the
many. You advised us not to hearken to evil reports, we have
hitherto done so, but of late there are so many, and of so
dangerous a nature, that we are at length quite puzzelled & verry
uneasy in our minds, expecting [no] less from ye. news we now
daily hear, than an open War wh. must lead to ye. destruction of
one or the other of Us. We mean ye. Settlement intended &
threatened to be made by ye. New England People in ye. heart
of our Country wh. we are are daily told of. — We are there-
fore now Sent to you on whom we always have our Eyes fixed,
to know [e'/jo] how that Affair is, and beg you will as you have
always done acquaint us with the whole of their Intentions. —
for we shall depend upon nobodys Ace1, of it but Yours. —
3 Strings —
Sir Wm. returned their Cheifs thanks for ye. great Confidence
they reposed in him, as well as for ye. regard they always paid to
his Admonitions, then acquainted them of w*. passed a few days
ago at ye. Meeting with the Six Nations on yl. Subject also wth. his
Majesty's Order to ye. Govr. of Connecticut, then concluded w,h.
telling them that as Soon as the Indians who were gone to Condole
with Mr. Johnson returned, He would [then] acquaint all ye. Six
Nations of the Connecticut Peoples Ultimate resolutions, which he
hoped would be favourable, & agreable to them all. —
gave 3 Strings —
Indian Uprising 723
they then thanked Sir Wm. verry heartily for his Information,
and told him they would rest themselves this Day in hopes of
Seeing the Deputys return from Connecticut, & hear what passed
there. — wh. Sr. Wm. approved of, Ordered them Provisions &
Quarters. — that same day ye. Deputys returned & Sir Wm. then
acquainted them with w4. had been done at ye. Meeting with ye.
Connecticut Govr., which pleased them much, so went away next
Day.—
Monday June 1 3th. — Johannis Tafyarrihogo one of the Cona-
johare Sachims came to acquaint me, that a Belt of Wampum
had been Sent to them, letting them know that ye. French from
Mississippi or the Illenois with a Number of ye. Shawanese,
Delawares &ca had ascended ye. Ohio, Surrounded Several of our
Posts, taken some, & killed ab*. 800 of our Men. —
Tuesday 14th. — I went to Conajohare to [enquire] learn more
particularly the truth of Sd. Acclt., where a little after my Arrival,
Mr. Hennery Vanscaak, & one Peter Reikman1 a Trader who
came from Oswego delivered me a letter from De Coaugne2
giving an Ace", of Some of the Traders being fallen upon &
killed by the Chippaways & Mississageys in Lake Erie. & that
a party of Inds. also fell upon, and killed above ye. half of
Lieut. Cuylers3 [Company] Party of ye. Queens Independants
within 25 Miles of the Detroit, to wh. place they were going,
they told me that the Express had passed with ye. Ace", to the
Genr1. two Days before, viz1. ye. 1 2,h. —
Wednesday 1 5th. I dispatched 2 Conajohares viz1. Serrehoana
& Senughsis to ye. Six Nations Country with Wampum, in order to
enquire of them what Nation or Nations of Indians had commenced
those Hostilities, & the Cause of it; [an^/J recommending it to
them to continue Steadfast by the late promises & engagements
w". they entered into so Solemnly at my House, and by no
1 Peter Ryckman.
2 Jean Baptiste de Couagne to Johnson, June 6, 1 763, in Johnson
Papers, 4:137-38.
3 Lieutenant Cornelius Cuyler of the 55 th regiment.
724 Sir William Johnson Papers
means suffer themselves to be led away, by them wicked &
foolish People who have now commenced hostilities agst. Us un-
provoked, [as] the consequence of wh. must inevitably prove
destructive to them. —
After that, I sent Orders for ye. Militia to hold themselves
in readiness. — On my return from Conajohare I sent for ye.
Mohawks to talk with them abl. ye Affair, and remove any Sus-
picions they might have entertained from ye. preparations makeing
at ye. Forts &ca. —
Saturday 1 8th. — I was oblidged to go to Albany in order to
carry on the Law Suit of ye. Conajohare Inds. agst. Klock,1
Livingston,2 &ca. for their Lands, wh. the beforementioned were
endeavoring to deprive them of by Virtue of a fraudulent purchase
formerly made & a Pattent thereon —
Friday 24th. — A Considerable Number of the Conajohares
came to me at my Quarters in Albany, and after acquainting me
y*. they were come down to ye. Court in order to See whether
Justice would be done them in ye. Affair of the Land in Dispute
wth. Livingston, Klock & Fonda3 & them, they let me know the
Messingers from their Castle, whom I sent to Ondaga were re-
turned with an Answer to my Message, Viz1. —
that they the Onondagaes were determined to remain our
freinds, and abide by the engagements entered into by ye. 6
Nations with me lately
that the French had been among the Sevr1. Nats. of Inds. to the
Southward & Westwd. giveing them Belts of Wampum as War
Hatchets & exciteing them all in their power to dispossess ye.
English of all ye. Posts they had taken possession of as far as
Oswego, otherwise that they would be enslaved by them. —
A Belt
Monday June 27th, — wrote Cap1. Claus to hold a Meeting
with all ye. Cheifs of the Canada Indians, & let them know the
1 George (Ury) Klock.
2 Philip Livingston.
3 Jelles Fonda.
Indian Uprising 725
Vile part the Ottawawaes have acted, and thereat, find out What
their Sentiments are, at ye. Same time to renew the Cov1. Made
with them in 1 760, and clear the road of Peace & Communication
between them & us. also to excite them to revenge the insult offered
to their Bretheren the English, wh. was one Article of the Treaty
of 1 760 at Coghnawagey, also to speak with ye. Swegatchy
Indians in the same Manner. —
Eodem Die, — received Returns from ye. Several Officers of
the Militia up the Mohawk River, of the Number of Volunteers
which turned out of each Compy. agreable to [mp] ye. Orders
I sent ye. Officers the 20th. Ins*. am*8. to 48 Men under ye. Com-
mand of Mynert [ ] &1
June 28th. — I sent 3 Strings of Wampum to call the Sachims
& principal Warriors of ye. lower Mohawks to a Meeting to be
held ye. 29th. at my House, in order to fall upon proper measures
for keeping ye. 6 Nations, Coghnawagees &ca. Steadfast in our
Interest at this critical Juncture, as also to fall upon some method
to convince them foolish People of their Error & Wickedness —
3 Strings —
June 29th. 1 763 — I proposed to ye. 2 Mohawk Castles to
Send to Morrow my Interpreter with Some of both Castles to
the Six Nations in order to Settle any uneasiness they may be
under on Accu. of ye, late Behaviour of the Ottawawaes &ca.,
as well as on Acclt. of the Troops marching into their Country,
so to desire they [n>ill be] may not be led away to their own
prejudice by the wicked Wiles of them rash & foolish Nations
who have unprovoked acted so vile a part. — but remain firm
freinds as they have hitherto been — & to Assure them that ye.
Genr1. has no 111 intentions towards them, or any Nation who are
freinds —
A verry large Belt —
1 Blank in the manuscript.
726 Sir William Johnson Papers
2d,y. to return them thanks for ye. freindly Message they sent
me by the Conajoharees, and to Assure them of our Steady
resolution to preserve peace with them on the terms of the Old
Agreement. —
A Belt —
3dly. to invite them to a Meeting at ye. German Flats in 15
Days, whereat we may be able to fall upon Measures for our
Mutual Interest, and prevent this unhappy breach becomeing
general. —
A Belt —
Then the Meeting broke up —
D°. Die, — I sent a Belt of Wampum by long Thomas a River
Indian to ye. Oghquagoes & Otseningo1 Inds. desireing they would
lye still & abide by their Engagements with us, & not be misled by
the others who so wickedly & foolishly commenced hostilities
agst. Us.
A Belt
NB Printup2 Interpr., Takarihogo, Hendrick alias Tayendaque,
are to Sett of to morrow for Chenussio with my Belts & Messages
& also with my Invitation.
3 belts —
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Coptf
Flushing, July 2nd 1763.
Dear Sir
No doubt you have heard that the Govr has sailed for England
& that the Administration is again fallen into my hands. I was
at this time in hopes that it would be attended with little difficulty
1 Chenango, now Binghamton, N. Y.
2 William Printup, interpreter.
3 Printed in Collections of the Nere York Historical Society, 1876,
Colden Papers, pp. 216-17.
Indian Uprising 727
or trouble, but what I hear of the Indians gives me great concern.
What information I have is with so little certainty that I am
not able to form any notion of what may be proper to be done
especially as I have not the least information of the present dis-
position of the Six Nations. However that be I must desire
you to give such directions to the militia under your Command as
may be most conducive to the safety of his Majesty's subjects.
I cannot be more particular in my present ignorance of the
disposition to our Indians least umbrage or jealousy be given to the
Indians which otherwise might be prevented.
It will give me pleasure in my administration if it be agreeable
to you in everything which concerns you for I am with sincerity
& real affection Sir Your most obedient Humble Servant.
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Bedford, July 2d, 1763 —
Sir
Just now I Received the Inclosed from Mr. McKee2 at Fort
Pitt, which I send for your Perusal, and by Mr. Mc.Kee's Letter,
a Soldier from Presque Isle,3 and an Officer from La Baaff4 were
come to Fort Pitt, who say that Vanango, Labaaff and Presque Isle
are burnt, and I fear most of the People killed. — the Soldier
who came from Presque Isle says, that the Sloop from Detroit
passed by there to Niagara about the 1 2th. of June, and Informed
the Officer there, that about 1 500 Indians had besieged Detroit
two Weeks before he had left it, and that on the 1 9th. Presque
Isle was attackt by 250 Indians, Ottowas, Chippaweighs, Wegun-
doths, & Senecas, & that before he left the Isle he saw the said
1 Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Alexander McKee, assistant agent for Indian Affairs.
3 On Lake Erie on the site of modern Erie, Pa.
4 La Boeuff (Le Boeuff).
728 Sir William Johnson Papers
Sloop returning to Detroit. — The French at Detroit, live on
their Farm, as usual, and do not Concern themselves in the War.
— One Robee, a Frenchman Informed Major Gladwin1 of the
Indians Design against Detroit, but not 'till the Indians were
assembled to make the Attack. —
Notwithstanding what the Delawares say in their Speeches
to Cap'. Ecuyer,2 by an Express this day from Ligonier,3 about 70
Delawares Attacked that Post on the 23d. ult°. for an Hour and
a half, and then Retreated, and several small Parties of Delawares
have been hereabouts these twenty days past, and have killed
fifteen People, and drove off great Numbers of Horses. — though,
by their telling Captain Ecuyer that Fort Pitt was the last Fort we
had in their Country, and that if he would abandon the Same,
they would not Interrupt him nor his People in their March to the
Inhabitants, it appears as if they did not Intend to Carry the War
into the Settlements. — The Express which came from Ligonier
says, that when they attacked that Post, one of the Delawares
told that Officer, that all the Country was theirs, — that they
had been Cheated out of it, and that they would Carry on the War
'till they had burnt Philadelphia. — I hope to hear soon from you,
in order to know whether the Six Nations have Declared against
us, as also the Western Nations. — the Senecas, I believe, have,
or the Chief Part of them. — As to the Southern Indians, I fear
they will take this Opportunity of breaking out again
I am with great Esteem &ca.
Geo: Croghan
1 Major Henry Gladwin, commandant of Detroit.
2 Captain Simeon Ecuyer of the 60th regiment, Commandant at Fort Erie.
3 Fort Ligonier, earlier known as Loyal Hannon, situated on the east
side of Loyal Hannon Creek, Westmoreland county, Pa.
Indian Uprising 729
FROM ELEAZAR WHEELOCK
A. Df. S.1
Hartford 5*. July. 1763.
Sir,
I hope Yr. Honr. Will please to receive as SufR Excuse for
Josephs2 Stays So long Beyond ye Time wh. I set in my last to You,
yl. the Rev..Mr. Smith3 cannot be prepared for the Busniss of his
Mission Sooner
I hope Yu. Will find he has Made such Proficiency in ye Kse.
of things Useful, as Yu. Will Esteem surR Proof of his past
Dilige. in Improve his Time & Advantages. I cant but hope he
may be Much perfected in the English Tongue by Associate
with Mr. Smith, & Servs as his Interpret1", he has much Endeard
himself to Me (and I think to every body Else) by his good
Behaviour, and I shod. be very Sorry if any the. Should prevent
his pursue his Studies. I hope he Will return to the School in ye.
fall of the Year, & continue thro' the Winter, and the rather
because there are Several Young Gentlemen now at College W°.
Desire to live with Me the Next Winter to learn ye. Mohock
Tongue of Joseph.
I Recomend Mr. Smith to Yr. Honrs. FdShip & Respect, his
Accomplishm,s. are Good his Rispos11. Excell1. his Views disin-
terestd May God Make him an Instrum*. of Much Good in ye
I am With Sincerest Duty and Respect
Yr. Hon". Most Obed1. & Most hbIe. Serv1.
Sir Wm. Johnson. Eleaz* Wheelock
indorsed :
Letter to Sr. Wm. Johnson
July 5th 1 763
1 In Dartmouth College Library.
2 Joseph Brant.
3 The Rev. Charles Avery Smith, with Joseph Brant as interpreter,
visited the Six Nations in 1 763. At the outbreak of Pontiac's War he
returned to New England.
730 Sir William Johnson Papers
A COURT OF INQUIRY
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Court of Enquiry held by Order of Major Henry
Gladwin to Enquire into the manner of the taking of the Forts
Sanduskey, Sl. Joseph, Miamis and Presqu'isle, Detroit 6th.
July 1763
Cap1. Hopkins2 President
T, a ,^. n . , « m , [Ensign Perry of the Queens
Lieu*. Hay3 60* Regim1. Members d i a • d
i I Koyal American Kangers
Ensign Pawlie4 who Commanded at Fort Sanduskey informs
the Court that on the Sixteenth of May he was informed by his
Centry at the gate, that there was Indians come who wanted
to speak to him, upon which he went to see who they were, and
finding them to be some of his own Indians who received him
very friendly, he permitted Seven of them to come in and gave them
a little Tobacco to smoak ; in a short time after One of them raised
up his head ; which he supposes was a Signal, upon which the two
that sat next him seized him and tied him, without saying a word
and Carried him out of his room; Where he found his Centry
dead in the Gate way with the rest of the Garrison one here and
one there all Massacred and the Fort surrounded by Indians;
his Serjeant who had been planting somthing in his Garden was
killed there; who Notwithstanding he had given repeated Orders
that in case any Indians came to the Fort, every Man should
immediately come in, the Merchants were all killed and every
thing they had plundered; from whence he was brought to the
Indian Camp at this place, where he remained prisoner untill the
third Instant when he made his escape into the Fort the Indians
that he permitted to come in was four Hurons, & three Outawas
who live near the Fort.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
2 Captain Joseph Hopkins.
8 Lieutenant William Hay of the 60th regiment.
4 Ensign Christopher Pauli of the 60th regiment.
Indian Uprising 731
Ensign Schlosser1 who Commanded at Fort Sl. Josephs, informs
the Court that on the 25th. May between 9 and 1 0 in the Morning,
he was acquainted that there was a Party of the Detroit Potta-
watomies arrived to see their relations there, and who intended
to come and wish him a good Morning a few Minutes after a
Frenchman came and told him that there was some Indians
come with an 111 Design, upon which he run to the Barricks to get
the Soldiers under Arms, and upon entering found them full of
Indians, upon which he ordered his Serjeant to use all his en-
deavours to get under Arms; while he Assembled the French,
and immediately went to speak to them, who were already as-
sembled at his room, and in two or three minutes after he was
entered he heard a Cry in the Barricks, upon which those Indians
that were in the room with him seized him, and those that were
without Seized his Centry at the Gate, and rushed in, in such num-
bers that they Massacred all the Garrison except three men in
about two minutes and plundered the Fort.
James Burns Soldier in the 60th. Regim1. who was one of the
Garrison of Miamies informs the Court that about the 23d. of May
a French Man arrived there who informed Ensign Holmes2 who
commanded that when he left the Mouth of the river below
Detroit he heard the firing of Cannon which made him beleive
that this Fort was attacked, that Mr. Holmes then Ordered the
Men of the Garrison to remain within the Fort and set them to
make Cartridges, that the 27th. in the Morning a Squaw that lived
with Mr. Holmes came into the Fort and told him that there was
another Squaw in a Cabbin about three hundred yards from the
Fort, that was very ill and wanted him to bleed her, upon which
he went out with her and in a short time after they heard two
shot fired upon which the Serjeant went out to see what was the
matter, and upon his coming up to two or three Indians that was
in sight of the Fort, they took him prisoner having killed Mr.
Holmes before upon which the men in the Fort shut the Gates, and
1 Ensign Francis Schlosser of the 60th regiment.
2 Ensign Robert Holmes of the 60th regiment.
732 Sir William Johnson Papers
got upon the Pickets to look out, when they saw one Welsh who
had been taken prisoner some days before, and two French-Men
who by evident description must be one Godfroy and one Miny
Chain that went from this to the Illinois for Pondiac (as the
Indians say'd) for a Commandant for this place, who called to
them to give up the Fort, Otherwise they would all be put to
Death, but if they would resign their lives should be all saved,
upon which the Men consulted among themselves, and thought
it best to give it up upon these conditions as there was but nine of
them in the Fort, the three others the remainder of the Garrison
having been taken two days before as they was afterwards in-
formed.
Lieutenant Cuyler1 informs the Court that on the 20th. of June
at about 1 0 in the Morning he was on board the Schooner Huron
opposite to Prisqu'isle on his return from Niagara to Detroit,
which place he imagined to be attacked as he saw two Swivels
fired one after another that soon after the Schooner came too
in the Bay they saw ten Canoes and heard a smart firing upon the
Fort, which Continued till the 2 1 st. when he saw the Officers house
that stood near the Block house on fire which burnt to the
Ground, without doing any further damage. That the fireing
commenced again and continued till the 22d. between twelve and
one when he saw the Blockhouse on fire. That he was not able
to give them any assistance having nothing but a small boat to
land men in, which would not carry above ten at a time, and being
two miles from the shore Since which the Officer and prisoners
were brought to the Indian Camp at this place
JosH. Hopkins
1 Lieutenant Cornelius Cuyler of the 55th regiment.
Indian Uprising 733
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
s New York, 7*. July 1763 —
I Had Last Night the Favor of your Letter of the 26th. June;2
and this Morning an Express Arrived from Colonel Bouquet
(who is on the Route to Fort Pitt, and was Advanced as far as
Carlisle on the 3d. Instant) With the Enclosed Intelligence, which
I now transmit to you : The Soldier who is Come to Fort Pitt, &
Reports the Loss of Presqu'Isle, may prove to be a Deserter,
but I much fear his Intelligence is too true : Capt : Ecuyer3 Writes
that this Soldier Declares he Left Presqu'Isle the 22d. — That
on the 19th. in the Morning that Post was Attacked by 250
Indians : They Defended themselves that Day & the Next, but on
the Third Day Ensign Christie4 Capitulated: That the Indians
were to Escort the Garrison to Fort Pitt, with Six Days Pro-
visions; but that, Notwithstanding this agreement, after Pillaging
the Blockhouse, the Savages Massacred all our People, this
Soldier & two others Excepted, who fled to the Woods. The
Loss of this Post gives me great Concern, but makes no Alteration
in my former Intentions of pushing forwards all the Force I Can
to Reduce the Savages, and I hope your Endeavors to keep all
Quiet below will be Attended with Success : I am well Convinced
of your Zeal on this, as well as on all other Occasions, & therefore
Need not Use any Arguments with you to Exert your Utmost In-
fluence with the Several Tribes unconcerned in this Insurrection, to
Remain Peaceable ; for whatever Dimcultys they may bring upon
Us at present, those Perfidious Villains who have thus Attacked
Our Posts, shall most Certainly, in the End, pay Dear for their
Temerity- I am,
Sir,
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 716.
3 Captain Simeon Ecuyer of the 60th regiment, commandant at Fort Pitt.
4 Ensign John Christie of the 60th regiment.
734 Sir William Johnson Papers
A COURT OF INQUIRY
Contemporary Copy1
Extract of a Court of Enquiry held by Orders of Major
Henry Gladwin, to Enquire into the manner of the taking of
Presqu'isle
Detroit July 10lh. 1763
Cap1. Hopkins2 President —
Lieu1. Geo: Mc. Dougall | . K
rr „ t t o li [ or the 6Uth. Regiment Members
tins11. Jos: J. bchlosserj
Ensign John Christie3 who Commanded at Presqu'isle4 in-
forms the Court that on the 20th. of June at Day break in the
Morning he found that Post Surrounded by about two hundred
Indians part of four Nations; at a quarter of an hour after they
began firing upon the Block house and continued all that day
pretty smart; they likewise shot fire Arrows into the roof of the
Block house by the Enemy which set it several times on fire.
The Block house was situated on a rising Ground, and could
be approached at little distance by two Hills, One Ascending
from the Lake Eastward, the other Ascending from the bottom
or Creek Northward from these two places the Indians kept their
fire having made holes in the Earth at Night to secure themselves,
Notwithstanding which two or three of them endeavouring to
get into the trench were killed, which made them abate their fire
for some hours, at which time they were employed digging a
passage thro' the Earth to get at the Body of the house, the 21st.
they commenced firing as hot as ever with Fuzees and fire Arrows,
which set the house again in flames in several places; the same
day the Barrels of Water he had provided for such exigencies
was spent in extinguishing the aforesaid fires and finding it im-
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39, inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, July 8, 1 763.
2 Captain Joseph Hopkins of the Queens Royal Rangers.
3 Ensign John Christie of the 60th regiment.
4 On Lake Erie on the site of modern Erie, Pa.
Indian Uprising 735
possible to get at the Well that was sunk in the Parade, was
therefore Obliged to sink one in the house by very hard labour,
whilst he was digging the Well the house was set again on fire
but got it extinguished by driving down the shingles from the
roof; at same time they had approached thro' the Earth as far
as the Commanding Officers Room on the Parade, they set it
on fire and communicated it to the Faschines around the Fort;
he continued firing till midnight, when one of them who spoke
French called up to him that it was in vain for him to pretend
to hold out, for they could set fire to the Block house when they
pleased, and if he would not surrender they would burn and
torture every Man that he had; he, finding that they had made
their approaches aforesaid, that they could set the house on fire
above & below, the men being fatigued to the greatest extremity,
and not able to extinguish such a fire and resist the enemys num-
bers; he asked them in English if there was any one amongst them
understood that Language they said there was an Englishman
now fighting against him who had been their prisoner, Seven years.
They then desired him to leave Off firing and he should speak
with him accordingly they told him that they were of the Huron
Nation at Detroit that had been compelled to take up Arms
against Detroit by the Outawas, that there was part of the other
nations there with him ; that they only wanted the house and that
they would have. They told him he might have liberty to go with
his Garrison where he pleased He then desired them to leave
Off their firing and he would give them an Answer in the morn-
ing early. That seeing the Vessel during the Attack hovering
about unable to assist him, and considering the situation he was
in, and the impossibility of holding out any longer; He sent out
two Soldiers as if to treat with them that they [may] might find
out their disposition and how they had made their approaches,
who were to give him a signal if they found what he imagined
to be true, that finding what he imagined to be so, he then
Marched out with the Garrison in Order to save them having
their promise of liberty to go to Fort Pitt, or where they pleased,
but were no sooner out than seized, bound and he with four
736 Sir William Johnson Papers
Soldiers and a woman carried to the Huron Village where they
were kept prisoners untill the 9th. Instant that he, the woman and
One Soldier, were delivered up. That x Shellberger [the said]
Soldier of Cap1. Hopkins Compy. of the Queens R. Rangers,
being examined by the Court declares the same in every particular.
JosH. Hopkins
james Mcdonald to george croghan
Contemporary Copy
Extract of a Letter from Lieu1 Mc. Donald3 to George Croghan
Esquire giving an Account of all Transactions at Detroit from
the 6*. of May to the 1 2*. July 1 763
Dated Detroit 12th July 1763 —
Sir
You must have certainly heard of our Misfortunes at Detroit,
and its Dependancies, but as it may be satisfactory to you to be
more particularly informed, will do myself the Pleasure to give
you an exact Account of all that has happened in this Depart-
ment since the 6th. of May, when we were privately informed
of a Conspiracy formed against us by the Indians, particularly
the Ottawa Nation, who were to Come to Council with us the
Day following, with an Intention to Murder every Soul of us. —
On the Morning of that Day, being Saturday, the 7th. of May,
fifteen of their Warriors came into the Fort, and seemed very
inquisitive, and anxious to know where all the English Merchants
Shops were. — At nine o' the Clock, the Garrison was Ordered
under Arms, and the Savages continued coming into the Fort 'till
1 1 o' the Clock, diminishing their Numbers, as much as possible,
by dividing themselves at all the Corners of the Streets most
adjacent to the Shops. — before 12 o' the Clock, they were 300
1 Blank in manuscript.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indan Records, Vol. 6.
3 Lieutenant James McDonald of the 60th regiment.
Indian Uprising 737
Men at least, — three times in Number [equal] to the Garrison:
but seeing all the Troops under Arms, and finding the Merchants
Shops shut, I imagine, prevented them from attempting to put
their evil Scheme into Execution that day. Observing us thus
prepared, their Chiefs came in a very condemned like manner,
to Council, where they spoke a great deal of Nonsense to Major
Gladwin,1 and Capt. Cambell,2 protesting at the same time the
greatest Friendship imaginable to them; but expressing their Sur-
prize at seeing all the Officers, and Men under Arms, the Major
then told them, that he had certain Intelligence that some Indians
were Projecting Mischief, and on that Account, he was deter-
mined to have the Troops always under Arms upon such Occa-
sions, — that they being the oldest Nation, and the first that had
come to Council, needed not be astonished at that Precaution,
as he was resolved to Act so with all Nations. — At 1 2 o' the
Clock, they had done speaking, went off seemingly Discontented,
and Crossed the River about half a League from the Fort, where
they all Encamped. About 6 O' the Clock that afternoon, Six
of their Warriors returned, and brought an old Square Prisoner
alledging that she had given false Information against them. —
The Major declared she had never given us any kind of Advice,
they then insisted on Naming the Author of what he had heared
with Regard to the Indians; this he declined to do, but told
them it was one of themselves, whose Name he promised never
to Reveal; hereupon the[y] went off, and carried the old Woman
Prisoner with them. — When they arrived at their Camp Pon-
diacfy, their greatest Chief seized on the Prisoner, and gave her
three Strokes with a Stick on the Head, which laid her flat on
the Ground, and the whole Nation assembled round her, and
repeatedly called out, Kill her, Kill her, Kill her —
On Sunday the 18 Pondiack, and several of their Principal
Chiefs came into the Fort at 5 o' the Clock in the Afternoon,
1 Major Henry Gladwin, commandant at Detroit.
2 Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment, who was lieutenant
commander, or second in command, after he was succeeded as commandant
by Major Henry Gladwin.
738 Sir William Johnson Papers
and brought a Pipe of Peace with them, with which they wanted
to Convince us fully of their Friendship, and Sincerity: but the
Major Judging they only wanted to Cajole us, would not go nigh
them, nor give them any Countenance, which obliged Cap1. Camp-
bell to speak with them, and after Smoaking with the Pipe of
Peace, and assuring him of their Fidelity, they said that, the Day
following all the Nations would come to Council, when every
Thing would be settled to our Satisfaction; after which they
would immediately disperse, and that that would remove all kind
of Suspicion. — Accordingly on Monday Morning, being the
9th. Six of their Warriors came into the Fort at 7 o' the Clock,
and seeing the Garrison under Arms, went off without being
Observed. — About 1 0 o' the Clock, we counted 56 Canoes,
with 7, & 8 Men in each, Crossing the River from their Camp,
and when Arrived near the Fort, the Gates were shut, and the
Interpreters sent to tell them, that not above 50, or 60 Chiefs
would be Admitted in the Fort: upon which Pondiacfy imme-
diately desired the Interpreter in a peremptory manner to Return
directly, and acquaint us "that if all their People had not free
[free] Access into the Fort, none of them would enter it; Adding
that he would Order a Party instantly to an Island" where we
had 24 Bullocks, which they immediately killed. — Unluckily
three Soldiers were on the Island, and a poor Man with his Wife
and four Children, all which they Murdered except two Children,
as also a poor Woman and her two Sons, that lived about half
a Mile from the Fort. — After having thus put all the English
without the Fort to Death, they Ordered a Frenchman who had
seen the Woman, and her two Sons killed, and Scalped, to Inform
us of it, and likewise of their having Murdered Sir Robert
Davers,1 Cap1. Robertson, and a Boats Crew of six Persons two
days before, being Saturday the 7th. of of May, near the Enterance
of Lafye Huron, for which Place they set off from hence on
Monday the 2d. in order to know if these Lakes, and Rivers were
Navigable for a Schooner which lay here, to proceed to Michilli-
Sir Robert Davers (Danvers),
Indian Uprising 739
macinack- — We were then fully persuaded that the Information
given us was well founded, and therefore a proper Disposition
was made for the Defence of the Fort, although our Numbers
were but small, not exceeding 120, including all the English
Traders, and the Works very nigh a Mile in Circumference. —
On Tuesday the 10th very early in the Morning, the Savages
began to fire on the Fort, and Vessels, which lay opposite to the
East, and West sides of the Fort. — About 8 o' the Clock the
Indians called a Parley, and ceased Firing, and half an Hour
after the Wiandots Chiefs came into the Fort on their Way to a
Council, where they were called by the Ottawas, and promised
us to endeavor to sollicit, and persuade the Ottawas from Com-
mitting further Hostilities : — after Drinking a Glass of Rum,
they went off at three o' the Clock, that Afternoon, several of
the Inhabitants, and four Chiefs of the Ottawas, Wiandots,
Chippaweighs, and PottaTvattamies came, and Acquainted us, that
most of all the Inhabitants were assembled at a Frenchman's
House about a Mile from the Fort where the Savages proposed
to hold a Council, and desired Captain Campbell,1 and another
Officer to go with them to that Council, where, they hoped, with
their Presence, and Assistance, that further Hostilities would
Cease, assuring us at the same time, that, be it, as it would, Captain
Campbel, and the other Officer that was to go with him, should
return whenever they pleased. — this Promise was Ascertained
by the French, as well as the Indian Chiefs: whereupon Cap*.
Campbel, and Lieu1. Mc. Dougal2 went off Escorted by a Num-
ber of the Inhabitants, and the four Chiefs. — He first promised
to be answerable for their Returning that night. — When they
Arrived at the House already mentioned, they found the French,
and Indians Assembled, and after Councilling a long time, the
Wiandotts were prevailed on to sing the War Song, and this
being done, it was next Resolved that Cap1. Campbel, and Lieu1.
Mc. Dougal should be detained Prisoners, but should be indulged
1 Captain Donald Campbell of the 60th regiment.
2 Lieutenant John McDougal of the 60th regiment
740 Sir William Johnson Papers
to lodge in a French House 'till a French Commandant arrived
from the Illenois; that next day five Indians, and as many Ca-
nadians should be dispatched to Acquaint the Commanding
Officer at the Illenois, that Detroit was in their Possession, and
to require of him to send an Officer to command, to whom Cap*.
Cambel, and Lieu1. Mc. Dougal should be delivered up — As
to Major Gladwin, he was Summoned to give up the Fort, and
two Vessels &c, — the Troops to Ground their Arms. — that
they would allow as many Batteaus, and as much Provision, as
they judged requisite for us to go to Niagara. — that if these
Proposals were not accepted, they were a Thousand Men, and
would Storm the Fort at all Events, and in that Case every Soul
of us should be put to the Torture. — The Major returned for
answer, that as soon as the two Officers they detained, were per-
mitted to come into the Fort, he would, after Consulting them,
give a positive Answer to their Demand, but could do nothing
without Obtaining their Opinion. —
On Wednesday the 1 1 lh. several Inhabitants came early in the
Morning into the Fort, and advised us out of Friendship to make
our Escape aboard the Vessels, assuring us, that we had no Other
Method by which we could preserve our Lives, as the Indians
were then a Thousand fighting Men, and would be as many more
in a few days, and that they were fully determined to Attack
us in an Hours time. — We told the Monsieurs, that we were
ready to Receive them, and that every Officer and Soldier in the
Fort would willingly perish in the Defence of it, rather than con-
descend or agree to any Terms that Savages would propose;
upon which the French went off, (as I suppose) to communicate
what we had said to their Allies; and in a little time afterwards
the Indians gave their usual Whoop, and five, or six Hundred
attacked the Fort on all Quarters. — Indeed! some of them
behaved extremely well, advanced very boldly in an open Plain,
exposed to all our Fire, and came within Sixty yards of the Fort,
but upon having three Men killed, and above a Dozen wounded,
they retired as briskly, as they had Advanced, and fired at three
hundred Yards Distance, till 7 o' the Clock at night, when they
Indian Uprising 741
sent a Frenchman into the Fort with a Letter for the Major,
desiring a Cessation of Arms that night, and proposing to let the
Troops go, with their Arms aboard the Vessels, but insisting
on our giving up the Fort, leaving the French Artilliry, all the
Merchandise, and Officer's Effects, — and had even the Insolence
to demand a Negro Boy belonging to a Merchant to be delivered
to Pondiacfy; — the Major's Reply to these extraordinary Propo-
sitions, was much the same as to the first. —
On Thursday the 1 2th. five Frenchmen, and as many Indians
were sent off to the Illenois, with Letters wrote by a Canadian
agreeable to Pondiacfys Desire. — On the 1 3th. We were in-
formed by the Inhabitants that Mr. Chapman, a Trader from
Niagara was taken Prisoner by the Wandots, with five Batteau
Loads of Goods. — Upon the 20th. your Friend Major Small-
man,1 Messrs. Leveys, with two Servants were taken Prisoners
by the Wandots, within a League of the Fort. — they have been
ever since in their Village, 'till a fortnight agoe, when Major
Smallman was given to a Shawanese, who Promised to deliver
him to you at Fort Pitt. He sent me his Papers by Mr. Sl. Martin,2
the Interpreter, which I have delivered to Major Gladwin, in
case of any Accident happening to myself, as we make frequent
Sorties, and are constantly liable to be killed. —
On the 2 1 st. one of the Vessels was Ordered to Sail for Niagara,
but to remain 'till the 6th. at the Mouth of the River in order to
Advertize the Batteaus which we daily expected from Niagara.
— On the 22d. we were told that Mr. Paullie,3 who who com-
manded at Sanduskey was made Prisoner by ten Ottowas, who
reported, that they had prevailed after a long Consultation with
the Wiandots who live at Sanduskey, to declare War against
us. — that some Days ago they came early in the Morning to the
Block house, and Murdered every Soul therein, consisting of
27 Persons, Traders included. — that Messrs. Callender,4 and
1 Major Thomas Smallman of the 60th regiment.
2 Jacques St. Martin, interpreter.
3 Ensign Christopher Pauli of the 60th regiment.
4 Robert Callender.
742 Sir William Johnson Papers
Prentice,1 formerly Cap,s. in the Pennsylvania Regim*. were
amongst that Number, and that they had taken a Hundred
Horses, loaded with Indian Goods, wch. with the Plunder of the
Garrison, was agreed to be given by the Wiandots before they
condescended to Join them, — that all they wanted, was the
Commanding Officer. —
On the 29th. of May, we had the Mortification to see Eight
of our Batteaus in the Enemies Possession; passing on the Op-
posite Shore, with several Soldiers Prisoners in them when the
foremost Batteau came opposite the Sloop, she fired a Gun, and
the Soldiers on Board, called to those in the Batteau, that if
they passed, the Savages would kill them all; upon which they
immediately seized on two Indians, and threw them over Board.
Unluckily one of the Soldiers was brought over Board by one
of the Indians, who Tomhawked his directly, they being near
Shore which was quite Shoaly. Another Soldier laid hold of an
Oar, and Struck that Indian upon the Head of which Wound
he is since dead, then there Remained but three Soldiers, of which
two were wounded, and although fifty Indians were on the Bank
not Sixty Yards distant, firing upon them, the three Soldiers
escaped on Board the Vessel, with the Batteau loaded with eight
Barrels of Provisions, and give the following Account of their
Misfortunes Viz1, "that two Nights before, at 10 o' the Clock,
they arrived about Six Leagues from the mouth of the River,
where they Encamped. — that two Men went from the Camp
for fire Wood, to boil their Kettle, when one of the two was Seized
by an Indian, killed and Scalped in an Instant. The other Soldier
ran, and Alarmed the Camp, upon which Lieu1. Cuyler2 imme-
diately ordered Ammunition to be given to the Detachment, which
consisted of one Serjeant, and 75 Rank, and File of the Queen s
Independant Compy. of Rangers. — After having delivered
the Amunition, and a Disposition made of the Men, the Enemy
came close to them, without being Observed, behind a Bank,
1 John Prentice.
2 Lieutenant Cornelius Cuyler of the 55th regiment.
Indian Uprising 743
and fired very smartly upon one Flank, which could not Sustain
the Enemies Fire, and they Retireing precipitately threw the
whole into Confusion, by that means the Soldiers embarked on
Board the Batteaus with one, two, and three Oars, in each
Batteau, which gave an Opportunity to the Savages of taking
them all, except the two Batteaus that escaped with Mr. Cuyler
to Niagara. —
On Sunday the 5th. of June we were informed that Fort Miamis
was taken — that Ensign Holmes1 who Commanded there, had
been informed by two Frenchmen, who Arrived there the pre-
ceding day, of Detroit being attacked by the Indians, which he
would hardly believe, and threatned to Imprison the French
for that Report — that an Indian Woman had betrayed him
(Ensign Holmes) out of the Fort, by pretending another Woman
was very sick, and begged him to Come to her Cabin, and bleed
her, and that when he had gone a little Distance from the Fort,
was fired upon, and killed. — that the Sergeant hearing the Report
of the Firing, ran to see whence it Came, and was immediately
taken Prisoner, — that the Soldiers shut the Gates, and probably
would have Defended the Fort, if one Welsh2 a Trader,
who had been taken Prisoner, a few days before, had
not Advised them to Open the Gates, adding that if they did
not comply, the Indians would set fire to it, and put them all to
Death; whereas if they opened the Gates, they should be well
treated, whereupon the Gates were Opened, and the Soldiers
Grounded their Arms. — On the 1 0th of June we heard that
Ensign Schlosser,3 the Commanding Officer at Sf. Joseph's was
taken Prisoner, and that all his Garrison, except three Men were
Massaced. — that on the 25th. of May the Indians came there
on Pretence, to Council, and that as soon as the Chiefs had shook
Hands with Mr. Schlosser, they Seized him, gave a Screech,
and instantly killed ten Men. — On the 1 2th. we were Informed
1 Ensign Robert Holmes of the 60th regiment.
2 John Welsh, an English trader.
3 Ensign Francis Schlosser of the 60th regiment.
744 Sir William Johnson Papers
that Lieu1. Jenkins,1 and the Garrison of Ouitannon, consisting
of a Sergeant, and 1 8 Men were made Prisoners, and carried to
the Illenois. — On the 1 8th. a Jesuit Arrived from Michilli-
macinack, and brought Letters from Cap1. Etherington,2 and and
Lieu1. Lessly3 with an account of their being taken Prisoners —
that Lieu1. Tamet4 was killed, and also 2 1 Soldiers — that on
the 2d. the Indians were Playing Ball near the Fort, when Cap*.
Etherington, and Lieu1. Lessly happened to be looking at them,
and were suddenly Seized, and Carried into the Woods, at the
same time the Savages having purposely thrown their Ball into
the Fort, to make it appear as if it happened by Accident, and
followed it in directly, when a Number of their Women had
Tomhawks and Spears concealed under their Blankets which
they delivered them, and put the whole Garrison to Death except
1 3 Men. — On the 30th. we were informed that the Block house
at Presq'Isle was burnt, that Ensign Christy,5 and all his Gar-
rison, consists, of 29 Men were taken Prisoners. — same Day
Arrived here the Vessel from Niagara with a Reinforcement
of an Officer, and 50 Men, 1 20 Barrels of Provisions, and Plenty
of Amunition, which has put our Garrison in good Spirits. — the
Savages begin to see that their Attempts will prove Abortive,
and I fancy are Sorry for engaging in a War that must end in
their total Destruction. — On the night of the 2d. of July, Cap1.
Campbel, and Lieu*. Mc. Dougal were lodged in the House I
have already mentioned, and made a Resolution to escape, when
it was agreed on between them that Lieuf. Mc. Dougal should set
off first, which he accordingly did, and got safe into the Fort,
but it was more dangerous for Cap1. Campbell than any other
Person, as he could neither See, nor run well w^. therefore
prevented his making an Attempt for his Escape. —
On the 3d. July the Inhabitants were called together by the
1 Lieutenant Edward Jenkins of the 60th regiment.
2 Captain George Etherington of the 60th regiment.
3 Lieutenant William Leslye of the 60th regiment
4 Jamet, Jamette.
5 Ensign John Christie of the 60th regiment.
Indian Uprising 745
Indians, and when they Assembled, they urged them in a press-
ing Manner to take up Arms against us, and threatned to put
them to Death if they did not Comply with their Proposals, and
assist in making Trenches to enable them to Attack the Fort,
which some of their Principal Inhabitants declined doing, but
40 of the French Volunteers (more properly) Vagabonds) as
having no Place of Residence, declared to the Indians they would
take up Arms, and Support them, as they looked upon them as
their own People. — that they eat, and drank out of the same
Dish, and fired with the same Gun, and therefore were deter-
mined to Act with them, and that such as refused to do the same
might depend upon being severely punished. — On the 4th. July
a Detachment went to destroy some Works the Indians had made
a Quarter of a Mile from the Fort, when they were Attacked
by 30 of the Enemy, which our people drove off in an Ins*, with
the Loss of one Man killed, and three wounded. — Half an
Hour after the Indians came, and carried off the man they had
lost to Cap*. Campbel, whom they then Stripped naked, and
obliged to walk in that Situation, half a Mile to their Camp,
where they killed him in the most cruel Manner. —
Ensigns Christy, and Schlosser have been delivered to us by
the Indians; the first, by the Wiandots, and the latter by the
Pottorvattamies. — It is now 64 Days since our Gates have
been shut, during which Time every Officer, and Soldier slept
on the Ramparts, notwithstanding which all our Men are in good
Health, and our Loss inconsiderable, being only one Man killed,
and a Dozen wounded ; Whereas the Enemy had above 20 killed
& 30 Wounded. —
I am &c
James Mc. Donald
746 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE1
[German Flats July 18-20, 1763]
At a Meeting with the Onondagas, Mohocks,
Cayugas, Tuscaroras, & Oneidas, at the
German Flats, on July the 18th. 1763.
Present
Sir Willm. Johnson Bar1.
Lieu*. Guy Johnson — Dep?. Agl. for Indian affairs —
Witham Marsh Esqr. Secretary
John Butler Esqr. Interpreter
The Revd. Mr. Charles J. Smith, ye. Justices & Sev1. Inhab*.
of ye. German Flatts and from
other Places. —
Sir Wm. Johnson addressed them as follows
Brethren of the Several Nations assembled —
I am very sorry for the Occasion, which calls us now together,
which equally concerns both you and your Brethren the English
who have met with the most Gross Treatment from a people
whom they have long considered as Friends, and who have with-
out any just reason absolutely broke the Solemn Engagements
into which they had Entered both with you and us. and, as the
late hostilities mutually concern us both, I Judged it highly neces-
sary to call you imediately together in order to speak with you
thereon. —
The weak, Silly People who have commenced hostilities, &
attacked their Brethren the English, you well know entered into
a Treaty of Strict alliance and friendship with me, at the Detroit
in 1 762 ; and notwithstanding, they had formerly, without any
reason assisted our Enemies the French against us, Yet you like-
wise well know we did not, altho' we are a People much more
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Guy Johnson s
hand. Entry for July 19, missing in this draft, is reproduced from the
copy in Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Indian Uprising 747
powerfull than the French, remember their behavior to us, or
attempt to take any revenge, which I know the French would
have done, if in our Situation, but on the contrary, took them
into the Alliance with you, our faithfull Brethren, & treated them
in a friendly manner. — This, you are well acquainted with and
you now see the return they have made us for our Goodness to
them. You now see these people have unprovoked attacked our
Forts and Settlements and destroyed several, on the most frivolous
pretences. I need not enlarge much on What they have done, to
a people of your sense, as I look upon all here present to be our
Friends, to be well acquainted with the particulars of their be-
havior, & to hold their proceedings in the greatest detestation. —
I could wish that the Foolish people, who are now become
our Enemies had the foresight which you manifest, and that they
had in time discovered the folly of their attempt, and [what they]1
the Ruin which must [in time] fall upon them by Engaging in
a War against so powerfull a Nation as the English.
You have all seen, during the Course of the late War, that the
English are a Quiet people, a People who do not chuse to engage
in trouble until they are greatly provoked. Of this you have an
Instance in our behavior to the French, who without cause began
a War on our Frontiers about nine years ago, in which they were
supported by the Very Nations, whose conduct we looked on as
Madness and therefore afterwards forgave them. —
You have likewise undoubtedly observed that the French for
two or three Years had a good deal of Success, and that they
took sev1. Forts which were much Stronger than these mad people
dare ever to attempt and that they did considerable damage to
our our Settlements. But you have likewise seen the consequence,
You have seen that when we were aroused from the Sleep into
which our Good Nature had cast us, that we imediately stood up,
and with a powerfull Arm, not only retook all their Conquests,
but entirely Subdued Canada, and all its dependancies, driving
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
748 Sir William Johnson Papers
them out of every Settlement they had in this Extensive
Country. —
This, in my opinion shod. have been a Sufficient warning to all
people how they Exasperate us without cause, and should have
convinced these foolish People that what both the French and
they [could never] were unable to effect could never be accom-
plished by them alone.
But, as they have had the folly to attack us, and the presump-
tion to commit hostilities on most of our frontiers, we are under
the Necessity of punishing them [with] for their treacherous
Behavior, and as this their behavior is not only a manifest Breach
of the Coven*. Chain, and of the most Solemn Engagements, You
cannot but consider Yourselves, as Equally, if not more concerned
than we are, because it is [not only] bringing a Reflection on
your whole Confederacy as by the Engagements entered into
we are to be all as one people, & whenever one of us received
A blow, the others were to resent it. —
As the Necessity of this must appear very clear to [you] all
present and that I know you hold their behavior in abhorrence,
I must ask what [you thi] are your Sentiments with regard to a
people who are equally engaged as yourselves in the [peace]
preservation of peace, and the Covenant Chain, and who have
set you at defiance by taking up Arms without your Consent, or
Approbation, and Exasperating the [good7] King of England,
by opposing his good designs and of spreading Peace thro out
your Land, & treating you as a people whose Friendship he is
desirous to Cultivate.
I am therefore directed by the Kings General in this Country
to lay this before you to represent the manner in which they have
treated both you and us, to desire you will take it into the most
serious Consideration, and Exert yourselves as an Injured People,
[and to] by giving us a proof of your hatred to these breakers
of peace, and to assure you in the most Solemn Manner that all
those Indians who shall be honest enough to shew their resent-
ment on the present occasion by opposing the designs of our
Indian Uprising 749
Enemies, shall not only meet with a particular reward, but be
intitled to all the favour which a Great King, and Generous
people can bestow, not only in the protection of their Castles and
families but in the defence of all [ijour] their Rights, & interests
in this Country. —
You have therefore a happy opportunity now before you (if
you will Embrace it) of becoming a greater People, than ever
you were, of having all your wrongs redressed, and of attaining
to all the priviledges, and Advantages which the British Nation
can bestow, and I make no doubt, you will consider these as the
most powerfull Arguments which can be made use of to induce
you to act with Vigour in giving us that proof of your friendship,
which is Expected in support of your own repeated treaties, and
the Engagements into which you have entred with your Brethren
the English —
I shall now conclude with desiring you will Give me your real
Sentiments on the hostilities I have mentioned, and also inform
who these are amongst you [will be] that are desirous of Joining
their brethren the English in Revenging the Injury sustained
by them, & your whole Confederacy —
1Tuesday July 1 9th. At the German Flats. —
P:M: The Indians being all assembled,
Conoquieson the Oneida Speaker spoke as follows. —
Present as Yesterday. —
It is the will of the Great Spirit, that we are met here together;
and in order to proceed upon Business, we shall mention every
thing from that Quarter, where the Troubles first arose; and
you may depend upon us, as faithful Brethren, and that we shall
leave nothing untold, of what we know, as it would not be Brother-
ly to secret any Matter, which might hurt, or be of Disadvantage
to our Brethren —
1 Entry for July 19 follows the contemporary copy in Indian Records,
Vol. 6.
750 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren. —
We desire your Attention, as we are determined to tell you
the whole Cause of this Trouble. — We will not Omit the least
Circumstance of it, but open our Minds freely, and without
Disguise, as becometh faithful Brethren.
Wednesday July 20th.
The Indians were again assembled in order to be answered con-
cerning several Matters in their speech of Yesterday. —
Present as before —
Sir Willm. Johnson Addressed them,
Brethren of the several Nations —
I am glad to hear the friendly sentiments you Expressed in
your Speech of Yesterday, and I hope they are as real as you
declare them to be. — The proceed3, with you shall be com-
municated to the General to whom I hope your present behavior
& declarations will prove agreeable.
The causes to which the Hostilities committed on your Brethren
the English are attributed appear very trifling, and are a great
proof the Weakness and folly of the Indians who have quarrelled
with [pour] their friends, on such silly pretences, as they mention
& without being able to serve themselves in [a] any manner
thereby, for if they found fault with the dearness of powder &
goods, the steps they have taken to redress themselves, will effec-
tually prevent their having any trade at all. [as all our Traders
must be withdrawn even from Niagara & Oswego] and as to the
Treatment, they received at the outposts, I can only say that it
[generally] sometimes proceeds from the indiscretion of [pour]
their people, who frequently insult the English, altho' we never
take advantage thereof to quarrel with the Inds. —
The General of the Kings Army in this Country has a love
for peace, and would not be easily induced to hurt his Brethren
1 The Guy Johnson draft is here resumed.
Indian Uprising 751
the Indians, unless compelled thereto by their ill behavior; He
also considers the safety of the Inhabitants, as you have recom-
mended ; but he thinks nothing more essential to their Safety than
the bringing the Western Indians to a proper punishment for
their behavior thereby to put an end to the like hereafter, & with-
out which the Country can never be safe nor can either the
English, or the Six Nations ever be at ease, but be liable to be
continually disturbed, and I am greatly surprized that the desire
of the General to bring Murderers to punishment, with a design
to prevent a General Quarrel, & serve as an Example to others,
shod. be in the least considered as a pretext for the inciting the
Senecas to act as they have done. —
I am sorry you should imagine the General had ever thought
little of you, in this you must be Mistaken, as he has a great
esteem for all good Indians, & will always shew them favor &
friendship, and consider their good offices for the preservation
of peace in a becoming manner ; and you may rely with confidence
on whatever he shall profess. —
A Belt
Brethren
It has been always the desire both of the General, and myself
to put the trade on a very advantageous and reasonable footing
for you; & notwithstanding the great distance we had to carry
Goods amongst you, yet I am well informed, both by Inds. &
others that, goods were in general very reasonable, & the Inds.
have often Expressed themselves well satisfied therewith, par-
ticularly at Detroit. — but the steps lately taken by the Inds.
seem to indicate that they have little inclination to be at Ease,
for were they disposed to live quiet, & trade, they would not
have taken such effectual measures to put a Stop to both. —
From the steps taken by his Majesty to protect your Lands,
with all which I have often made you acquainted, I apprehend
you may rest well satisfied on that head, as no attempts have been
lately made for settling on any part of them ; & the Tract which
752 Sir William Johnson Papers
the N England people claimed is now given up, as your own
Deputies who went to Connecticut, have informed you. —
A belt —
BreuV.
I have often spoke to you about the demolition of the posts,
& on your late application, I laid the same before the General,
whose ansr. thereon I have not yet received ; — but this much I
may venture to say, that the Forts you disapprove of were most
of them occupied by the French, and are all of them [both] of
use both to us and you; They were taken by the English [not
from you] at the Expence of blood, and Treasure, not from
You, but from the French, whom [you] the Inds. supported in
the possession thereof against us, & opposed our attacks on them,
I therefore cannot but think that our real friends would never
desire us to abandon them, but the request is particularly un-
reasonable, at a time when we are attacked, & when according
to your own Story, the French are become alive, in which Case,
it cannot be Expected we should Chuse to be found defenceless. —
A belt —
Brethn.
With Regard to the Cov'. Belt, between the Govr. of Pensyl-
vania, & you, I am Equally concerned [for] in the observation
thereof; & I Consider it as an instance of the Gen1, favorable
disposition of the English towards you, but I am sorry I have
reason to remind you that the one end thereof is let loose by the
Senecas, one of your own Nations, & altho we have still held
fast in the same and shall Continue to do so, so long as you Con-
tinue to observe the same, & behave as friends. — And as to the
danger you represent the other end to be in, from some disputes
between the White People & Mohocks, You may all make your-
selves Easy, as the affair is of a private nature & such as will I
Expect be determined in favour of the Mohocks by the interest
of the persons in power to whom I shall immediately [transmit
Indian Uprising 753
the] report your desire, & recommend it to them to procure
Justice to be done to both the Mohock Castles. —
A Belt
I am sorry to hear you have reason to think that 6 Cayugas
were killed, or taken by the English; perhaps you are Misin-
formed, as [yet] I have heard nothing thereof, tho I receive
letters constantly from the Southward, however, agreable to your
request, I shall make enquiry concerning them, and make you
acquainted with what I shall be able to Discover. —
I shall now conclude with recommending to you a Careful
attention to, and strict observance of all the Treaties into which
you have entred with your Brethn. the English. — [and] for,
be assured, [that] the General is well disposed towards you, and
that he only desires [your interest desire that] the 5 Nations who
are still our Friends, & at peace, may sit down Quiet, & Con-
tinue so, as he has no designs against [you] them, but on the con-
trary will reward all those who may distinguish themselves by
their Attachm*. to the English, and secure peace, protection, & a
fair trade to their sev1. Nations. —
INDORSED I1
to write a Testimonial
for ye. Praying Oneida Thomas
& Send it to Brants House
to Send a String of Wampum
by Isack to keep an Ind. Home
who is Sent for by the Kanestios
In Johnson's hand.
754 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall July 24th. 1763
Sir
I am to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellencys letter of
the 9th. Ins1.2 at the German Flatts, and that of the 1 6th.3 which
I received last night on my return from thence. —
My Proceedings with the Indians who assembled there on
my Summons, being too long to be coppied at present, I must
therefore defer transmitting them as yet, and shall only inform
your Excellency in general, that on the 18th. Ins1, the Indians
being arrived to the Number of 340, consisting of all ye. Principal
Sachims, & Cheif Warriors of everry Nation except the Senecas.
— I then delivered them a Speech wherein I represented the
behaviour of the Western & other Indians, their unprovoked
hostilities and the absurdity of their Attempts to distress a People,
who had entirely defeated the united efforts of both the French
& them, concludeing with recommending it to them to consider
ye. behaviour of these People as a breach of the Covenant, not
only with us, but with themselves, & that therefore it was ex-
pected they would give us a proof of their Attachment to us by a
Strict observance of their Treaties, and by their resentment at
the Hostilities committed. — The next day they answered me,
and therein, after acquainting me that the first rise of the present
Hostilities was in a great measure owing to the Belts & Speeches
left amongst ye. Westeren & other Indians by the French on
leaveing the Country in 1 760, (whereby they exhorted those
foolish People over whom they had great influence to revenge
their losses in convenient time, and defend their own liberties
1 In Public Records Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39. The draft, in Guy
Johnson's hand, is in the Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:1 66-68.
3 Ibid. 4:171-74.
Indian Uprising 755
before it was too late) the Speaker proceeded to lay before me
other reasons assigned by those Indians for encourageing them
thereto particularly the dearness of powder, & goods, 111 treat-
ment, and want of any Supply from the Garrisons, and the dislike
they had to our keeping many of the small Posts which had been
promis'd formerly to be destroyed, and the retention of which
had created many Jealousies amongst them. — then expressed
their dislike at their behaviour, their approbation of Your Ex-
cellencys notice of them on this occasion, and their resolutions to
abide steadfast by their Treaties, after which they requested that
there might be a plentifull Trade, & confined to Ossrvego &
Niagra, and that every thing might be sold them on reasonable
terms, and then concluded with laying before me a verry large
Covenant Chain Belt, the One End of which they represented
as held by the Senecas, and the other by the Mohawks, that the
former had lately fallen of, and that the other End must soon
become loose, by reasons of ye. designs of the English to cheat
the Mohawks of their lands & Habitations, in which if they were
not redressed the Covenant must fall, they haveing no other place
of residence, and also represented that some of the Cayugas
returning from the War against the Cherokees were lately cut
of by the English, therefore requested that if we loved to abide
by the Cov1. Chain as they did, we should procure them redress
on all these articles — To this I answered them on the 20th. and
therein laid before them in how trifleing a light the causes assigned
by the Westeren Indians for committing hostilities must appear
to everry body, that your Excellency loved Peace, to preserve
which for the future, you would punish those rash People and
expected only from them a Strict attention to their Treaties, and
that they should shew their attachment to us by their present
Services which would always entitle them to our favour & protec-
tion, that the Step taken by these foolish People, instead of make-
ing trade more advantagious, must effectually deprive them of any,
that the Several Posts were won at ye. expence of much Blood &
Treasure, and were verry necessary to us both, that one end of
756 Sir William Johnson Papers
the Covenant Chain was let loose by one of their own Nations,
the Senecas, and that they need not be apprehensive of ye. other
End, as I should lay the affair of the Mohawks Lands before
your Excellency, and those in authority to procure the Mohawks
Justice, as well as that I should enquire concerning the loss of the
Cayuga's, in which acctl I apprehended they might have been
missinformed, and ended with repeating my desires that they
would act as became Brethren & faithfull Allies on the present
Occasion.
in answer to which they next day assured me they would
imediately send Deputys from all the Nations to bring the Senecas
to their Senses, and do everry thing to convince us of their freind-
ship in case those People should not pay any attention to their
Embassy.
On this Subject I answered them on ye. 21st. & represented
pritty fully the part was expected from them, to which they an-
swered pritty favourably, and on the 22d. haveing finished all
Matters with them I sent of a Party of 6 verry trusty Mohawks
with a letter to Captn. Dalyel,1 & directions to do him all the
Service he should require of them, as also sent of 2 other verry
trusty Mohawks on ye. Same Errand, and make no doubt of
procureing some other parties in a little time, to which nothing
will contribute more amongst the lower Nations in particular than
our procureing Justice for the Mohawks touching their Lands,
on which Subject they could have no satisfaction at ye. late Tryal
at common Law at Albany as at that Court, a Pattent however
fraudulently obtained is deemed a good right, neither would the
Evidences be admitted who could prove the Villainy of obtain-
ing the same, wh. are too tedious to mention, or trouble your Ex-
cellency with at present. & ye. infamous proceedings lately taken
by one George Kloofy an Inhabitant of this Country, whose Char-
acter I formerly laid before Your Excellency for satisfying the
Indians thereon, but I must beg leave to represent to You that
the continued state of Drunkeness in which a few Indians whom
1 Captain James Dalyell of the 1 st regiment.
Indian Uprising 757
he has by low vile artifice brought over to oppose the rest, are
kept at his house, begins not only to appear of dangerous con-
sequences to the Indians, but even to the white People, and as ye.
Indians are perpetually quarrelling thereon amongst themselves,
those so deluded by Klock would not attend the Meeting, neither
can the Cheifs get any good of them, and as this cannot end here,
& that notwithstanding my repeated representations thereon to
those in power in the Province, I find by the powerfull influence
of Persons at New York concerned in the Lands, there will be
no satisfactory nor effectual measures taken on behalf of the
Indians, nor any thing thought of for putting a Stop to Klocks
flagitious proceedings, & the Subsisting party Divisions occasioned
thereby. I must therefore earnestly request your Excellencys
interposition to punish this fellow, as I shall make it appear He
deserves, as also to prevent him & any other Persons from en-
gageing the Indians in parties on Matters of private concern, to
the prejudice of his Majestys Service, & the hazard of numbers
of the Inhabitants resideing in this Country. — Yesterday Several
Stockbridge Indians came here and offered me their Service to act
offensively on pay. they Say they can Muster about 60 Men
imediately, if therefore Your Excellency thinks proper to employ
them, I shall order Cap1. Lotteradge1 from Canada to go with
them on Service, and I beleive he might be able to procure some
in Canada to go with him, if so it would strike a great Awe into
the rest, as the Indians in that Government are thought of so much
consequence, that some Nations will not yet act, till they know
what Party they espouse, Several Oghquago & Susquahanna who
also arrived here yesterday informed me that about 5 or 6 Hun-
dred Inds. of the Chenussios, Sharvanese, Trvightiees, & Dela-
toares were on their March (as they had heard) against Fort
Augusta, — about the same time an Express came from Cona-
johare with a Belt of Wampum & message from ye. Oneidaes,
as also a letter from ye. German Flatts Signed by Justice Frank2
1 Captain John Lottridge of the Indian service.
2 Justice Conrad Franck.
758 Sir William Johnson Papers
there, this letter informs me that a Body of English have sur-
rounded the Chenussio Castle, & that 200 Indians were on their
way to make some attempt about Niagra, the purport of the
Oneida Belt & Message was to inform me that a large Body of
Indians were on their way designed against ye. German Flatts &
this River, in consequence of which, I ordered the Militia Com-
panys on this River up imediately to that Settlement, and this
Morning verry early I received a Second express with a letter
from Justice Harkemer1 & Cap*. Fry2 acq's, me that the Indians
were said to be near that place, I there up set up some necessary
orders to the Militia at ye. Flatts, which will amount to 9 Com-
panys, and have ordered part of ye. Albany Battallion to Schen-
ectady for the defence of the River in ye. Absence of the rest, I
shall myself set out for that place as soon as I am any way able,
but realy the fatiuge I went thro at the Flatts, with a Cold I
catched comeing back, together with the Multiplicity of business
on my hands with many Inds. now here, has greatly indisposed
me, as I was not recovered when I attended the last Congress. —
These Alarms may prove nothing, but they require being noticed
as there is no knowing exactly when such a Blow may be Struck.
I am also this Day informed that Major Rojers3 has had an
Action with, and defeated some Indians on Lake Ontario, upon
the whole I am humbly of opinion we should guard agst. the worst
that may happen, as I have recieved private Advices on my own
Ace", from some Indians in whom I think I can confide, and that
therefore a Body of well chosen Rangers, or such persons Sent
against some of those Nations in Arms, might prove of great
Service, and encourage our freinds, as I am in some measure
apprehensive that the Numbers of which the Westeren Nations
& Senecas consist may intimidate many of the others, and induce
some to act against us, in which case, the defection might prove
1 Justice Han Jost Herchheimer (Herkimer) .
2 Captain Hendrick Frey jr., justice of the peace.
3 Major Robert Rogers.
Indian Uprising 759
too general, from their expecting no forgiveness, and I humbly
conceive the 700 Men raised by Pensilvania, would, if they are
good, be better employed in carrying on the War imediately
into the Enemys Country. — I have the Honour
to be with ye. greatest Respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient, and
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
indorsed:
Sir William Johnson, Bar1.
Johnson Hall 24*. July 1 763.
Recd. & Ansd — 28*. Ditto —
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Spring Hill July 28th 1763.
Dear Sir
This Evening I received two Letters from you at the same time,
one dated the 13th & the other the 25th of this Month.2 Since
the Conclusion of the Definitive Treaty our Ministry have had
such a Multiplicity of business on their hands, & have met with
such unexpected difficulties that it was not possible for them to
attend to every branch of business, & some neglects became all-
most unavoidable but I am confident you may assure our faithfull
1 Printed in Collections of the New York Historical Society, 1876,
Colden Papers, p, 221.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:169-71 and 175-77.
760 Sir William Johnson Papers
Indians that they will be far from being neglected as soon as the
Ministry can attend to their affairs.
I am of opinion that the most effectual method for the Cono-
johary Indians obtaining redress will be by an order from the
King, & by the Kings bearing the necessary Expense of it, other-
wise it cannot be carried effectually on, & I am persuaded that in
your representation this may be obtained. Whatever is in my
power for their obtaining Justice shall be done whenever it shall
be properly pointed out to me.
I am well pleased with what you have done for the Security
of the frontiers. You have often demonstrated your zeal on the
like occasions. Even after all your care & doing every thing that
can be done it may be impossible to prevent a great deal of mis-
chief. However they may succeed in surprising poor innocent
people, it will at last bring destruction on those cruel treacherous
savages.
You may assure the Inhabitants that I shall warmly recommend
their sufferings at this time to the Assembly for their proper Con-
sideration.
Please to let me know what you think necessary for making
the militia of Albany more usefull with the names of the officers
for the Troop and two Companies of Grenadiers and an Adjutant
& in what manner they are to be inlisted that I may give the
proper Orders for that purpose.
It is needless for me to intreat you to go on as you have all-
ways don in the Publick Service, Your Zeal wants no Spur. I
am with great affection & Esteem Sir Yr &c.
Indian Uprising 761
FROM JEFEERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York 28*. July 1763.
Sir,
I am this moment Favored with your Letter of the 24th.2 and
as the Post is Returning Immediately I Have only time in Gen-
eral to Approve of the Measures you took, not only at the
Conference for Shewing the Indians the Folly & Ingratitude of
those who had Commenced Hostilities against Us; But of the
precautions of sending the Militia to the German Flatts on the
Report of the Savages having some designs on that Settlement,
altho' I Flatter myself it will turn out to be a false Alarm.
I Would on no Account whatever think of Engaging of the
Stockbridge Indians: I Know them to be a Worthless Tribe;
and I really cannot Say, I Approve of Employing any of the
Canadian Indians. All I ask of them is to Remain Quiet; I
thank you for sending the Indians to Captain Dalyell;3 they
will be of Service
I Hope We shall soon have good Accounts from Above; I
am Trying to make up a small Reinforcement, which if I can
Effect will Answer the Ends you propose from a Corps of Rangers,
& will be better than any Provincials that could be Raised.
By a Letter from Canada all was well at the Detroit on the
7th. June, when the Inhabitants Offered to take up Arms, but
Major Gladwin Did not want their Assistance.
I am very Sorry to hear that you are again much out of order
occasioned no Doubt, by the fatigue you are obliged to Undergo
at present; But I hope it will soon be over, & that I shall have
the pleasure of hearing of your perfect Recovery.
I am, with great Regard
Sir,
Sir WM. Johnson Bar*. &ca'
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 754.
3 Captain James Dalyell of the 1 st regiment.
762 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM ALEXANDER DUNCAN
Contemporary Copy1
Sir William Received from Major Duncan2 the following
Account of the Action of the 3 1 st. July 1 763 commanded
by Cap1. Dalyell3 against the Indian Nations near Fort
Detroit. —
On the Evening of the 30th. July Cap1. Dalyell being fully
persuaded that Pondiack, the Indian Chief, with his Tribes,
would soon abandon his Designs, and retire, insisted with the
Commandant, Major Gladwin, (contrary to his Opinion, and
that of two French Gentlemen, who well knew the Disposition
of the Enemy as also the Intelligence they had received from the
disaffected French) that they might be surprized in their Camp,
totally Routed, and drove out of the Settlement: after many
Arguments for, and against the Enterprize, Cap1. Dalyell at last
said that Major Gladwin might do as he pleased, but that really
he saw no Difficulty in the Execution, and in giving them an
Irrecoverable Blow, — or Words to that Purpose ; on which,
it was soon determined that Captain Dalyell was to March out
with 240 of the best Troops. — Thereupon we marched half
after two in the Morning, — Ttvo deep along the great Road,
by the River side, two Boats up the River along shore, with a
Paterrara* in each, with Orders to keep up with the Line of
March, cover our Retreat, and take off our dead, and wounded,
Lieu*. Bean5 with the Queen's Independants being Ordered on
a Rear Guard to cover the dead, and wounded to the Boats. —
About a Mile and half from the Fort, we had Orders to form
into Platoons, and if attacked in the Front, to fire by Street Fir-
ings : — We then advanced, and in about half a Mile further
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Major Alexander Duncan of the 55th regiment.
3 Captain James Dalyell of the 1 st regiment.
4 Patereros — small pieces of ordnance on swivels.
5 Lieutenant James Bean of the Rangers.
Indian Uprising 763
our Advanced Guard commanded by Lieutenant Brown1 of the
55th. had been fired upon just close to the Enemy's Breast Works,
and Cover, so close, that the Fire being very heavy, not only
killed, and wounded the most of his Party, but communicated
to the main Body, killed, and wounded several, which being
unexpected Staggered, and put the whole in some Confusion;
but soon Recovered their Order, and gave the Enemy, or rather
their Works a Discharge, or two from the Front, commanded
by Cap*. Gray,2 at the same time, the Rear commanded by Cap*.
Grant,3 was fired upon from a House, and some Fences, about
20 Yards on his left, on which, he Ordered his own, and Cap*.
Hopkin's Company4 to face to the Left, and give a full Fire
that way. — The Enemy then (it appeared) giving way every-
where Cap*. Dalyell sent Orders to Cap*. Grant to take Possession
of the above said House, and Fences, which he immediately did,
and entered : he found in the House two Men, who told him the
Enemy had been there long, and well apprized of our Design. —
Captain Grant then asked them the Number, they answered
300, — and that they intended, as soon as they Attacked us in
Front to get in our Rear and between us, and the Fort. — Cap*.
Dalyell soon after Firing ceased, came where Cap*. Grant was,
who told him what the Frenchmen had said, on which he went
to the House, and spoke to the Frenchman, then went towards
the Front, and soon Returned again, telling Cap*. Grant that he
was wounded, and that one of our Pateraras was broke, and that
he had ordered the Boat back to the Fort with some dead, and
Wounded. — Cap*. Grant some time before hearing the Enemy
Whooping on our Flank, went, and asked the Frenchman what
it was, who answered that they (the Indians) were endeavoring
to get in our Rear, and (as far as he understood it) that we were,
or would be lost. — Cap*. Dalyell returned again with Major
1 Lieutenant Arch. Mont. Brown of the 55th regiment.
2 Captain Robert Gray of the 55th regiment.
3 Captain James Grant of the 80th regiment.
4 Captain Joseph Hopkins of the 80th regiment. The company known
as Hopkins' Rangers.
764 Sir William Johnson Papers
Rogers,1 who hearing the Enemy Whooping, as before, and
being told again what the Frenchman said, Cap1. Grant took liberty
to say, we should not give the Enemy time to Recollect, and
recover themselves, that if he intended to go on, we should push
them, and if to retire, we should do it before they got in our Rear;
to which Capf. Dalyell made no Reply, and went with Major
Rogers to the main Body again. Captain Grant then begged of
Lieu1. McDugal,2 who acted as adjutant to the Detachment to
go up to Cap1. Gray to the Front, and tell him what he said to
Cap1. Dalyell, and to know if he approved of the Same, and if
he did, to tell him it. Lieutenant Mc.Dougal being gone, Cap1.
Grant told Cap1. Dalyell, who came in ab*. an Hour after (with
Mr. Babby,3 and Mr. Sl. Martin4 two French Gentlemen who
had gone with him as Volunteers, and Guides) & said that he
intended to Retire, and Ordered Cap1. Grant to march in the
Front conducted by Mr. Babby, and post himself in an Orchard
and house which would be shewn him by him. — he then marched,
and in about half a Mile further had some Shots fired on his
Flank at a Distance, but got Possession of an Orchard well
fenced, and Just as he had got there, heard a warm firing in the
Rear, having at the same time a Firing on his own Post from the
Fences & Cornfields behind it. — Lieu'. Mc.Dougal then came
up to him, and told him that Cap1. Dalyell was killed,0 and Cap*.
Gray very much wounded in making a Push on the Enemy, and
Driving them out of a Breast Work of Cord Wood, & an In-
trenchment they had made, and that the Command then divolved
upon him Cap1. Grant; — Lieutenant Bean immediately came
up, and told him, that Captain Rogers had desired him to tell
him, that he had taken Possession of a House with the Rear of
the Troops, — that Cap1. Grant had better retire with what
1 Major Robert Rogers, of Rogers' Rangers.
2 Lieutenant John McDougal of the 60th regiment.
3 Baby (Babie), a prominent "habitant" who lived across the river
from Detroit, and who supplied the garrison with food supplies.
4 Jacques St. Martin, an interpreter at Detroit.
5 See Parkman, Conspiracy) of Pontiac, 1 :326.
Indian Uprising 765
Numbers he had, as Major Rogers could not get off without the
Boats to Cover him, he being hard pushed by the Enemy from
the Enclosures behind him, some of which Scoured the Road,
thro' which he must retire. — Cap*. Grant had by this time de-
tached all the Men he could get, and took Possession of all the
Enclosures, Barns, Fences &c from his own Post to the Fort,
in which Posts he put Lieu*. Cuyler, Lieu'. Bean, and Ensign
Fisher,1 as soon as they came up with sufficient men to prevent
the further Advance of the Enemy, he also sent Ensign Pawly2
with 20 Men back, to attack a Party of the Enemy, which, not
only annoyed his own Post a little, but Galled those who were
Joining him from the attack where Cap*. Dalyell was killed, and
Cap1. Gray, and Lieu1. Luke,3 & Lieu1. Brown4 wounded, which
Ensign Pawly did, and killed some of the Enemy in their flight.
— he then sent back to Cap1. Rogers to tell him what he had
done and desired that he would come off, that the Retreat was
quite secured, and the different Parties ordered to cover one
another successively until the whole had Joined. — but Cap1.
Rogers not finding it safe, chose to wait for the armed Boats, one
of which appeared immediately with Lieu1. Bremm,5 whom Cap1.
Grant had directed to go & Cover Cap1. Roger's Retreat, who
was in the next house about 80 Yards distance. — Lieu1. Bremm
accordingly went, & firing a few shots, Lieu1. Abbot with the
other Boat sent down with Cap1. Gray, Lieu1. Brown, and some
wounded men returned, which I suppose the Enemy seeing, did
not wait her Arrival, but retired on Lieuf. Bremm's firing, and
gave Cap1. Rogers an Opportunity to come off; so that the whole
from different Posts joined without any Confusion, and marched
into the Fort in good Order about eight o' the Clock covered
by the Armed Boats on the Water Side, and by our own Parties
1 Ensign Garret Fisher of the 55th regiment.
2 Ensign Christopher Pauli of the 60th regiment.
3 Lieutenant John Luke of the 55th regiment.
4 Lieutenant Arch. Mont. Brown of the 55th regiment.
5 Lieutenant Dietrich Brehm of the 62nd regiment.
766 Sir William Johnson Papers
on the Country side in View of the Enemy all joined, and much
stronger than at the Beginning of the Affair, as was afterwards
told by some Prisoners who made their Escape many having
joined them from the other side of the River, and other Places. —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[July 4- August 4, 1763]
July 4,h. — Peter alias Taquaianunt2 wlh. several more set
off for Canada with my Pass, Letter, & directions for Capn.
Clau's Conduct on the present Breach, [n>th.] desireing him to
let me know imediately ye. opinion of the Coghnawageys, & all
other Inds. thereon, & what part they would like to act, — de-
sireing him also to remind them of & insist on the Treaty of 1 760,
one Article of wh. was, that if any Nation should refuse entering
into alliance with them & Us, or if any Nation should rashly
fall out & quarrel, wlh. any of Us so in Alliance, we were to make
a Common Cause of it, and punish yl. Nation [50] &ca.
Monday July 4th. P M — I recd. a letter from Sir Jeffr.
Amherst3 with one from Mr. Croghan Enclosed to me & another
from Mr. Alexander Mc.Kee Agf. at Fort Pitt, with ye. latest
intelligence, the Genr1. in his letter desires I would try to prevail
on ye. Mohawks or Others to Join agst. ye. Nations now commit-
ting Hostilities
Thursday 7th. — wrote a letter to ye. Canajohare Sachims &
Warriors, desireing they would pay no regard to any Idle re-
ports wh. may at this time reach their Ears, but hearken to what
I have already & shall when necessary say to them. I desired
also they would send me whatever Acctts. they may receive from
ye. Upper Nations imediately. I likewise acquainted them of
4 Men being taken away from little Niagra abf. 1 7 days ago,
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Johnson's hand.
2 Also written Takuainunt; see Johnson Papers, 3:163.
3 Amherst to Johnson, June 26, 1763, ante p. 718.
Indian Uprising 767
by wl. Nation is not yet known, but supposed to be by the Senecas.
I required them also to be ready to attend the Gener1. Meeting
at ye. Flatts.
D°. Die about a Dozen of the Principal Mohawks Came here,
to acquaint me that Gawehe a Chief of ye. Oneidaes was on his
way hither, with the Conajoharees in order to inform me of the
Inds. having taken ye. Fort at Winango,1 and desired ye. Mo-
hawks might be present when he delivered the Particulars, they
waited till 5 oClock in vain, then left two of their People to
hear the News & the rest returned to their Castle. —
NB: a little before they broke up the Meeting, Canadagaia
one of the Cheif Sachims of the Mohawks, informed me as fol-
lows, that Severall Nations of the Southeren & Westeren Indians
had been to New Orleans and after having spoken a great deal
with yl. Govr. & he with them ordered Said Nations a great
quantity of Arms, Amunition, &ca. & on their return Sent a
french Officer with them charged with Severall Belts of Wam-
pum & War Hatchets, that sd. Officer took a Number of Each
Nation with him thro ye. other Nations exciteing them all to War
agsl. the English, at length he arrived at ye. Shawanese Town,
when after assembling them together, he told them he longed
much to see them his Children again, that the English it was true,
had thrown him on his back, wh. prevented his visiting his Chil-
dren Sooner, that now by the Assistance of the Spaniard, he was
grown strong again, & therefore determined with the Assistance
of his Children to fall upon & dispossess the English of wl. they
had taken from him, for wh. End he had brought a verry large
Sharp Hatchet along wth. him which would do great execution,
and which he desired them to take up agst. ye. English who were
not their freinds as they might Plainly now see, that after the
Shawanese had accepted it, he went to the Delawares, & after
repeating ye. same Story to them, offered the Ax wh. they re-
fused, telling him that as they were but Women, & used only
to the Homony pounder, they would be at a loss [how to] use
Venango. Fort Venango, Franklin, Pa., probably fell June 16.
768 Sir William Johnson Papers
a Hatchet, but told him they would use the Pestle and do as
much execution with that as with an Ax. He thanked them, &
went to the Chenussios, at whose Door he would only peep in
& see how his Children there did, on Meeting them at a distance
from their Village somewhere near Ohio, he repeated ye. same
to them & off erred them the Hatchet wh. they accepted of, he
Said he would go no further, as the rest of the Six Nations were
not his freinds but always present when the English Struck him,
so he returned after giveing them a Charge to make good use of
his Ax. — Soon after & that verry lately, the Chenussios came
and offerred the Ax to the Cayugaes, but they refused taking it,
and endeavoured to persuade the Chenussios dropping all thoughts
of ye. kind, as yl. would break the Cov1. Chain, on wh. the Chenus-
sios desired ye. Cayugaes not to mention it to ye. Ondagaes,
&ca. nor to me, the Cayugaes told them it was an Affair of too
much importance to keep from the rest of ye. Confederacy —
Saturday July 9th. — 20 Oneidaes Arrived here & sent up 2
Men to know where they were to encamp & to fetch provisions —
In the Evening they all entered ye. Council Room when after
congratulateing me on my recovery from my late Illness Caivehe
a Cheif spoke as follows,
Brother Gorah Warraghiiagey
I am sorry to bring you bad News at this time, as there is too
much already Stirring, but I thought it proper to let you know
what acclts. we have recd. from one of our Nations (who was at
Chenussio a few days ago on a visit) [brings us nA are]1 Viz',
that a Party of Chenussios, who were sent to See whether there
was a french Army comeing up the Ohio as reported, went down
the River in Canoes as usual, and after landing at Fort Winango
Entered the Fort as Freinds, and then put the Garrison to Death,
except 2 Officers whom they made Prisoners & ye. Centinel at
ye. Gate, who, while they were murdering the Garrison, got into
one of the Indians Canoes and made his escape down the River.
1 Words in italics and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
Indian Uprising 769
the two Officers were killed in the woods near to the Indian Town,
by beating & abuseing them as they marched prisoners.
They then told me that the Messengers sent up to the Six
Nations were arrived in their Castle Six days ago, & would find
ye. Cheifs of ye. Six Nations met at Onondaga, to which place
1 2 of ye. Oneidaes accompanied them. —
Tuesday July 11 th. 1 763 — Thomas alias SoghsonoTvana a
Conajohare Cheif (who was one of the four I lately sent wth.
Messages, & an Invitation to the Six Nations to meet me at ye.
German Flatts) arrived here, and after acquainting me that the
Sachims of Everry Nation (except ye. Senecas who refused)
were on their way to the German Flats in order to meet me there.
Said that the 2 Ondagaes who were Sent ab*. 20 Days ago by
their Sachims towards Ohio, in order to learn the truth of the
several bad reports then spread about the Country were returned,
& confirmed ye. Accu., of Wenango's being Destroyed & ye.
Garrison put to Death & that it was done by A party of Chenus-
sios who live near Said place by treachery, that After putting ye.
whole Garrison (wh. consisted of 18 Men) to Death, they made
ye. Officer write ye. reason wh. they gave for w*. they had done,
viz1, the scarcity & dearness of Powder for these two Years past,
being oblidged to pay two Deer Skins for a gill of powder, & so
in proportion for everry thing else, that when they complained
of ye. dearness thereof, they were 111 treated, and told to go where
they could get it cheaper, Secondly that the English keeping
so many Posts in their Country gave them reason to think that
they were determined to possess their Country, therefore would
destroy them, that after writeing ye. aforesaid, they put him to
Death, and sent ye. Letter or paper with a party of their War-
riors who then were going down to Fort Pitt, in order to do all
the Mischief they could there w,h. in yl. Quarter and along the
Communication, where they intended to drop Sd. Paper, so as
to be found by the English. — the Messenger who returned from
Onondaga, Says, that ye. Onondagas declared in ye. presence
of all ye. other Nations their firm resolution of liveing & dying
770 Sir William Johnson Papers
freinds to the English let ye. consequence be what it would, &
that they absolutely rejected every proposal made by the Senecas
to induce them to Join agst. ye. English, — ye. Messenger further
says, that dureing the Meeting at Onondaga they received the
news of the Twighties, Ottawaes, Hurons & Delawares &ca.
haveing destroyed Six Forts, but could only mention the names
of ye. following, Detroit, Michilimacinac, Miamis, Sandusky &
Winango, that the Senecas spoke with 3 Belts of Wampum to
ye. rest of the Confederacy, [desiring they] acquainting them
that they had given a lease to their Warriors, and desired they
would do ye. same ] ye. Women of the Senecas, spoke
wlh. a Belt to ye. Women of ye. other Nations desireing they would
persuade their Men to do the same, but the Mohawks & my
Interpreter arriveing there the same day, & delivering my Speech
[& ad]v'ice to them, prevented the rest of the Nations paying
any regard to that of ye. Senecas. on the Contrary the Onondagaes
Joined by ye. rest of ye. Confederacy Sent a verry large Black
Belt of Wampum to the Senecas, desireing they would desist
from, [their] and not think of putting their Hostile Schemes in
Execution, as such a conduct would break the Covenant Chain,
wh. links them all, and the English in friendship, at least until the
Meeting now to be held at ye. German Flatts took place. The
Seneca Messengers returned with this Message, but at his going
away told the rest of the Confederacy, they might follow their
plan of Peace, but they were resolved to follow the resolution
they had taken, wh. was, to carry on ye. War agst. ye. English,
and that those who acted differently might repent it. —
Thursday 14th., — I set off for ye. German Flats in order to
meet the 5 Nations agreable to appointment, and was accom-
panied by Lieu1. Johnson1 Dep'y. Agent, Mr. Marsh2 Secrx. for
Indian Affairs, the Revrd. Mr. Smith3 of New England, I ar-
1 Lieutenant Guy Johnson.
2 Witham Marsh, Secretary for Indian Affairs.
3 The Rev. Charles Smith.
Indian Uprising 771
rived yl. night at Justice [ ]x next Day had a Meeting with
ye. 2 Mohawk Castles at Conajohare to prep [are] them for ye.
General Meeting, wh. being over I set of for, & arrived at ye.
Ge[rman] Flats in ye. Evening, when I understood ye. 5 Nations
were not yet [come.]
Saturday ye. 1 6th. — Several Indians arrived, & I took y*.
day to talk with ye. Men in private & Sound them, wh. had a good
effect —
Sunday 1 7th. — Mr. Smith gave them a discourse. [
Children Sung Psalms verry prittyly, and were much pleased
with the Minister
Monday 1 8th. — being all Assembled I delivered them my
Speech wh. will be seen in the Minutes, & is referred [
the proceedings at ye. Flatts wh. ended thursday 2 1 st. —
Friday 22d. — I set of for Johnson Hall where I arrived
Saturday afternoon, and found Tom Wildman with other Cagh-
nawageys waiting my return, also a Number of Stockbridge
Inds. —
Sunday 24th. — I wrote a long letter by the Coghnawageys
to Cap1. Claus directing him to use his utmost endeavours to
excite ye. Canada Inds. to a Just resentment of the behaviour of
ye. Westeren & other Inds., or if not inclined thereto, to observe
a strict Neutrality. I Send a Black & White Belt by them to ye.
Canada Indians to much the Same purport. —
Monday 25th. — the Stockbridge Inds. spoke w,h. a String
of Wampum, offering to Join our Arms for pay. — I thanked
them, and told them I would acquaint Sir Jeffr. Amherst there-
with, and them wth. his answer, as soon as received, & recom-
mended it to them to hold themselves in readiness until then. —
this I sent them in writeing & confirmed by a Belt of Wampum —
D°. Die — near 20 Cheifs &ca. from Oghquago arrived with
Adam & Thomas King, who on their comeing in condoled the
Death of my late Father, and after my doing the Same on Ace".
1 Brackets here indicate illegible portions of manuscript.
772 Sir William Johnson Papers
of the losses they sustained by Death since our last Meeting. I
proceeded as on Page 9, & 101
D°. Die — 2 Expresses arrived here, One from the Flats by
letter from one Edwd. Johnson *p desire of the Inds. & Inhabitants
— the other from the Conajoharees with a Belt, both acquainting
me that they were told there was a considerable Body of Inds.
on their Way to the Settlements along the Mohawk River, have-
ing ordered up four Compys. of ye. River Militia 3 Days before,
I reinforced them with 3 Companys more & ordered 5 Companys
from Albany to Schenectady, & as many to Albany from below,
also ordered Lieu*. Co11. Van Slyke2 to the Flatts to take the
Command of the Companys there upon him —
Wednesday 27th. — Sent fresh Orders to the Militia at the
Flatts, and a Message to the Oneidaes, & Conajoharees desireing
them to keep a good lookout, & the former to let me know what
was ye. Occasion of the present Alarm. —
D°. Die — discharged ye. Oghquagoes after giveing them a
Sum of Money to purchase powder &ca. with, & gave them Several
Orders to get things made & mended by the way home.
I also Sent a Black String of Wampum by Thomas King & 2
others who set of for Oneida, thereby desireing to know imediately
from them what was meant by the threats thrown out agst. me by
Some of their Nation, & insisting on being satisfied therein as soon
as possible, letting them know at ye. same time that if any Nation
whatsoever attempted to disturb me, I should rise & revenge it,
which was in my power to do whenever I pleased. Thomas King
took ye. String & promised to deliver the full purport thereof to
them faithfully, & in 3 days time, & said he was determined to
to say a great deal to them himself on yf. as well as on other Acctls.
at his request, and haveing behaved so well, I gave him a Tes-
timonial in order to be a protection to him whenever he might
have occasion to go amongst the English, also promised him a
Flag.
1 See below, under date of Tuesday, 26th.
2 Lieutenant Colonel Jacobus Van Slyck (Van Slyke) .
Indian Uprising 773
D°. Die — abf. 9 at night We had an Alarm here occasioned
by 2 of the Wenches haveing Seen an Indian Skulking abl. the
House with a Lancet in his hand, & run away on being discovered.
I had all my People under Arms the whole night, this day begun
to fortify my House. —
tuesday 26th.
Brethren of Oghquago
I bid you welcome here, and am glad to See You at this time,
as it affords me an opertunity of acquainting You with the rash
& villainous behaviour of those Nations now in Arms against
their Bretheren the English, & y*. without any Just provocation. —
to lay ye. whole of their treacherous conduct before you will be
needless, as it is well known [nolp] to You & all the Confederacy,
wherefore shall only now desire to know your Sentiments, and
what part you propose to act in the present dispute or Quarrel,
your being so far civilized, & acquainted with ye. word of God,
leads me to think that such barbarous proceedings (of a People,
who, were so lately taken into ye. Cov'. Chain as Bretheren &
freinds) must appear to you in ye. most detestable light & rouse
up in you a resentment becomeing true Bretheren & Christians. —
A Belt —
Bretheren —
I shall only add that ye. Genr1., of his Majestys Forces in this
Country has desired me to assure All our Indian Bretheren, that
he has a love for peace, & would not easily be induced to hurt
any of them, unless compelled thereto by their 111 behaviour, that,
as he is now Struck by some foolish Nations, he is determined
to punish them for their rashness & treachery either Sooner or
later, — on the other hand, I have his directions to Give the
strongest assurances of freindship & protection to all those who re-
main well affected to the English, as well as to reward any who
may (like true freinds) Join & act with his Troops, which as your
freind, I most earnestly recommend to You to do, [as I am] be-
ing convinced it will in the end be greatly for yr. Interest, the
774 Sir William Johnson Papers
English being ye. only People on this Continent whose Freind-
ship You are to Esteem, —
A Belt —
the Road cleared between us, so that all Acctls. may be
brought me by them, & also from me to them recommended to
look out Sharp & have open Ears to learn all news —
A Belt —
4th. Belt to remove all Jealousy and Suspicions out of their
Minds, which they might have entertained, of ye. English haveing
any Design agsl. them, and assureing them of the Contrary, so long
as they remained friends —
A Belt —
their Answr. on ye. 1st. Belt
that they were equally glad of ye. opertunity afforded them of
opening their Minds to me, and of assureing me that ye. behaviour
of those Inds. in Arms agst. us, is verry disagreable to them, &
contrary to the freindship they imagined subsisted between us &
them Indians, concludeding with ye. strongest Assurances of rem?,
firm freinds even tho the Enemy Inds. were to hold their hatchets
over their Heads. —
returned ye. Belt —
2^ Belt
Brother
We have only to assure you of our regard for the English with
whom we are now more nearly connected on Acclt. of Religion
as we both profess the Same, We have always been firm freinds
to ye. English, for wh. we are often censured by other Nations
and threatened, notwithstanding all that, we shall ever remain
so & if any Nation attempt hurting us for our Attachment, we will
rise & defend ourselves. —
Gave a Belt —
3< Belt
We shall listen to yr. advice, & rest contented in our Minds
& not live in dread of our Brethren the English hurting us, as you
assure us they have no evil intentions towards any who live in
Indian Uprising 775
freindship with them — You may rest assured that we shall use
our Endeavours to collect all those together, & invite them to our
Village who are well inclined, & let those who are not remove far
from Us. —
returned a Belt —
Brother
we return You many thanks for clearing open yl. Road wh.
You made to our Settlement formerly, indeed it wanted opening
much, as it has grown up with Weeds & bushes Since the time
You wanted our Warriors, we hope it may for the future be kept
in good repair, then You may depend on hearing all we Can
See or learn & that imediately. We go now to Oneida in order
to know their Sentiments regarding ye. fire place they formerly
appointed at Otseningo in yr. presence, whether they choose to
continue it there still or remove it to Oghqugo — kept ye. Belt
until then & promised to be back in ab*. 20 days
Thursday 28th. — All the Sachims & Warriors of ye. Mo-
hawks came here to learn wf. news was Stirring, and to desire I
would Send them word whenever I intended to go abroad any
where; that then they would Send some of their Young Men to
escort me, being determined to loose their lives rather than I should
be killed or taken by the Enemy Inds., well knowing that in such
case they must be left in a deplorable Scituation, &ca. —
I Acquainted them with all the News I had lately recd., and
returned them hearty thanks for their kind offers of freindship,
and promised to let them know when I should have occasion for
their Service, at ye. same time assured them of my determined
resolution to Stand their freind as long as they continued to
behave as they have heretofore done.
While we were met, an Express arrived from the German
Flatts with a letter to me from Lieu1. Co11. Van Slyke acquainting
me that their Scout had returned from the Oneida Castle & said
that ye. Sachims of yf. Nation were surprised to hear there was
any Alarm at ye. Flatts, or any where below them, as they had
not heard a word of any designs agst. us, declareing that if they
776 Sir William Johnson Papers
did we should be imediately made acquainted therewith, haveing
2 good Men appointed for yl. [service] purpose and the Onon-
dagaes four Men picked out for the same Service. — the Lieu*.
Co11, further writes me that he had then called all the Officers
to a Council of War, In order to know their opinions as to their
returning with the Several Company s (am's. to Seven hundred &
ninety four Men Officers included) that he was of opinion they
might with safety & propriety return. — in Said letter he in-
formed me that one Abraham E. Van Eps of Schenectady one
of ye. Traders taken by the Enemy Indians last May, had made
his Escape, and come to ye. German Flatts, & told Him that
Several of ye. Prisoners taken by the Inds. were delivered up at
the Detroit, & refers me to Said Van Eps for further par-
ticulars. — this I told ye. Mohawks of, who seemed greatly
pleased at the Acclt.
then gave the Mohawks powdr. &ca. & they went away —
Friday 29th. — Abraham E. Van Eps [who had] arrived
here & delivered me severall letters from the Detroit & Niagra,
also a letter from Lieu1. James Mc.Donnald at ye. former place
to Mr. Croghan open, wh. gave a particular acclt. of ye. whole
proceedings of ye. Inds. French, from ye. 6th. May (the time their
designs were first discovered) to the 12th. Ins1. Said Van Eps
gave me also a verry full & clear Acclt. of the manner in wh. he
was taken, by wl. Nations, how treated, and how he escaped, as
also of the present disposition of ye. Hurons & Potarvatamies. —
Sunday 3 1 st. — Nickus of Oneida my great f reind & his Family
arrived here, and encamped by the Brick Kill, the next Day he
came to the House, when I had a long conference wth. him on
the present State of Affairs, after which he told me that he & his
Family were come to me for Shelter, being threatened by those
who are now in Arms agst. us, as they knew his attachment to
me. —
thursday 4th. — He [built] erected a House under the Guns
of my Fort which I built on the Inds. declaring War agst. us,
and on Acctl. of the many threats thrown out agst. my Person. —
Indian Uprising 111
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
Extract1
Montreal 6th August 1763.
Whilst I am writing this, my Landlord tells me that Capt.
George Etherington2 and Lieut. James Lessley3 passed the Door
coming from Missilimakk4 who I heare with all the Traders
except one Trasey [Tracy] who was killed by the Enemy Indns.
were escorted here by the Ottawas as living near that Place. I
followed them immediately to the Govs, and there learned the
News of them Parts, which is that a Parcell of Chippeways to
the Number of 1 00 assembled near the Fort as customary in the
Beginning of Summer, and diverted themselves playing Football,
and Cap* Etherington and Mr. Lessley (not suspecting the least
Treachery, having then not heard a Word of Detroit being be-
sieged by the Enemy Indians) stood out of the Fort to see the
Indians Play: that on a Signal given by a Yell, they both were
seized and bound, and that the same Instant the Centries were
tomahawked, likewise Mr. James, who was Officer of the Day
in the Fort, together with 18 Soldiers killed and taken. Then
the Traders were plundered and taken Prisoners ; that afterwards
themselves were dragged to the Chippeways' Encampment where
the Spoil was divided, and a Council held, in what Manner the
Officers were to be put to Death. In the mean Time the News
reached the Ottawa Town 30 Miles from Missilimakinak, who
without any Delay sat off armed to Missilimakinak, and inquired
into the Reason of the Chippeways Behaviour. The latter had
nothing to say but that a few Days before the Blow, they received
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 3 1 n. The
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire.
2 Captain George Etherington, of the 60th regiment. Brackets here
and following are in the copy.
3 This was Lieutenant William Leslye, instead of James.
4 Michilimackinac was attacked and captured by the Indians, June
4, 1763.
778 Sir William Johnson Papers
Belts of Wampm from Pontiac, the Ottawas' Chief at Detroit,
in conjunction with ye Chiefs of their Nation living there, inform-
ing them of the Rupture with the English, and desiring them to
cut off MissilinA The Ottawas were surprized and chagreend
and insisted upon the Chipways delivering up the Pris", &c.
The latter to reconcile themselves with the Ottawas, made up
a Heap of Goods and put Mr. Lassley & 2 Soldiers by them as
their Share of the Prey, but they would not accept of it, and
demanded all the Prisrs. The Chipways at last gave way and
delivered over Mr. Lassley and the Soldiers and demanded a
Ransom for the Traders, which they agreed to, and being every
one exchanged they took them into their Care and afterwards
escorted them safe to this Place. The Officers and Traders can
not say enough of the good Behaviour of these Ottawas and Gen1
Gage is resolved to use and reward them well for their Behaviour.
As Capt. Etherington is going to Gen. Amherst, you will doubt-
less hear the Particulars of the whole Affair. By what I can find
none but the Chipeways at Missilimk and those of the same Nation
& Ottawas at Detroit, are concerned in the present Breach. All
the rest of the western Nations, and even some Chipways living
at the Falls of St. Mary would not engage or receive the Belts
sent by Pontiac, and on the contrary are very well inclined to our
Interest, in particular the Nations living at La Bay, and the
Sioux, who are always at War with the Chipways; and if the
Indns now here (among whom there are some other Nats as they
come here in behalf of 8 Nats to the westward who assure us of
their Friendship) leave this satisfied; it may be of infinite Service
wch I intend to represent to Gen. Gage, and I believe you will
approve of making them handsome Presents as an Encourage-
ment for their good Behaviour, and the only Means of chastising
those villainous Nations who are the Occasion of this unhappy
Event ....
Indian Uprising 779
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
Contemporary Copy1
[August 9-11, 1763]
At a Meeting between his Excellc>\ General Gage, and 54
Chiefs, and Head Warriors of the Ottawa Nation living
within 1 0 Leagues of Michillimacinac, and 30 Chiefs of the
different Nations of Indians living within the Inhabited Part
of Canada, Held at Montreal the 9th. of August 1 763 —
Present — His Excell0?. Governor Gage —
Cap1. Dan1. Claus
Cap1. John Lotteridge
Menare, & Sl. Jean
Depy. Agent for Indian Affairs
In the Indn. Service —
Interpreters —
Feubleu, or Beendanoa — Spoke as follows —
Brothers —
We beg you will give Attention to what we are going to Relate
to you, with Regard to the Hostilities committed by the Chip-
paweigh Indians at Michillimacinac. — We were hardly Ar-
rived from our Winter's Hunt, when we Received the unexpected,
and disagreeable Account of that Garrison being treacherously
surprised, and cut off by the Chippaweigh Indians, we thereupon
dispatched an Express on Horseback to know the Truth of the
Matter, who on his Arrival there found the Fort in the Enemy
Indians Possession who recd. him kindly, and offered him some
Refreshment, which he refused, and instantly returned to give us
the Intelligence, which we no sooner Received, than all our
Young Men Jumped up, Armed themselves & Set off in their
Canoes in order to retake the Fort from the Enemy ; but on their
Arrival there, found them too Numerous, and too well prepared
against an Attempt of the kind. — they however called our
People to a Meeting where they had a Heap of Plunder, also
three Prisoners, — viz1, the Officer, second in Command, with
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
780 Sir William Johnson Papers
two Soldiers, which they desired our People to take by way
of Reconcilement, — but our Young Men after expressing their
great Displeasure at their horrid Behavior, Released the Prison-
ers, and would not have any thing to do with the Goods, until the
Officer persuaded them to take them, they afterwards Searched
for the Commanding Officer and when they had found him
Prisoner with said Indians, they insisted on having him delivered
up to them. — then we made Use of all our Belts of Wampum
to Release the Traders; which Cost us a great deal of Trouble. —
We Relate this to you, Brethren as short as Possible, as doubt-
less you have already heard every Particular from your own
People. — Having at last Collected every Englishman, and what
Effects of theirs could be got, we Resolved to Escort them safe to
you, though we had to pass [Pass] through Parties of the Enemy
Indians, superior to us in Number. — Yet we thought no Danger
too great to Save them. —
Brethren —
I Address you in Behalf of the Tribe Vriskafyo at Michilli-
macinac. — We beg to Observe to you that this Event is the
most unhappy that ever could have befallen us, and such as we
never Expected, or knew of; and we assure you that no Nation
was concerned in this base, and treacherous affair, but the Sauteux,
or Chippaweys at Michillimacinac, — for I can assure you that
the other Nations thereabouts are your firm Friends, and keep
Hold of your Hand as our Friend & Protector, and never will
let slip the Hold of it, and look upon you for the Supply of our
Necessaries of Life, without which we are miserable. —
A large black Belt —
Brothers —
I am desired to speak to you in Behalf of the Nations about
La Bay,1 who also are very uneasy, and Concerned about what
Happened at Michillimacinac. —
1 Green Bay, Wisconsin. In 1761 the English captured the French
fort La Baye (La Baye des Puans) and renamed it Edward Augustus.
Indian Uprising 781
The following Nations take a fast Hold of your Hand, and
declare themselves your firm Friends, and Allies — viz1. — the
Folsavoine, Puans, Saks, Renards, AyoTvays, Fiox,1 and
la Praierie, or Illenois, — All which Nations you may regard
as of one Mind, and one Body, who are Resolved to remain
always in your Interest, and Die with you, — and they by this
Belt of Wampum Implore you to grant them a Supply of their
Necessaries of Life by Establishing a Trade wth. them, and not,
on the Account of One Nation, whom they look upon as Strangers,
and Disturbers of the publick Peace, and Tranquility, to make
all the Rest unhappy. —
A Belt denoting the Road of Peace
through all those Nations. —
Brothers —
The Tribe of the Fourge, or Nasarvaqueidaya at Michilli-
macinac address you now. — I beg leave to acquaint you that
they were always looked upon by the French as a trusty, and
faithful People; and you being now the Possessors of this Coun-
try, they assure you that they are Resolved to be your firm Friends,
as they were to the French, & hope to merit the Same Esteem,
[/rorn] and Regard for their good Behavior, as they Experienced
from them, and flatter themselves you will look upon the present
Act of Friendship to your People, as the first Token of their
Sincerity, and Attachment to you. —
A Belt. —
Brother —
Before we left Home with your People, we were Informed
by these unthinking Indians who commenced the present Hostilities,
that whatever Nation would not Join them against the English,
should be looked upon by them as their Enemies, & treated as
such. — You see, Brother, what Risque we run in Exposing
our Families, whom we left behind, to the Outrages of them
Indians, who in our Absence may make our Women, and Chil-
dren Captives. — We hope, therefore you will Consider this our
1 "Sioux" is written in here with a different hand and pen — perhaps later.
782 Sir William Johnson Papers
Behavior in the Light it deserves, and not let us, and our Families
suffer for the 111 Behavior of one Nation, whose Character is that
of being Quarrelsome, and Perfidious, but that you will grant
us Trade, as heretofore, otherwise we must Perish. —
A large white Belt. —
1 1 lh. To which the following Answer was made by his
Excx. Governor Gage, viz Montreal — 1 1 August —
Brethren of the 8 Western Nations, namely, the Ottawas at
Michillck. the Folsavoines, Puans, Saks, Renards, Ayoways,
Sioua, & La Prayrie, or Illenois —
Pres*. as before
Having Appointed this Day to Return you my Answer to
your Speech made me two Days ago, and you being now all met
here, I desire you will give Attention to what I am going to say
to you. —
Brethren —
Being persuaded, that before now, you have heard the News
of Peace, and how Matters were Settled between the Kings of
England, and France with Respect to this Country, I have only
to Proceed upon the Business you are come upon. —
Brethren —
I am convinced of your good Intentions in coming to this Place,
and of the Regard you have Shewn to your Brethren. — What
you have done in Behalf of them, is real good Faith, and wher-
ever I see any of these you defended & Saved, they cannot enough
Praise your Behavior, & at the same time Recount the Services
you have done them. — Your Actions have convinced me, and
without which, I must confess I should not have believed your
Words. — for what has just now happened in your Country,
must Erase all Confidence in Words, with me. — Those per-
fidious Indians have trod every thing under Foot, that is most
Sacred amongst Nations. — Their Speeches by Belts of Wam-
pum, & even the Calumet itself is no more Regarded by them,
Indian Uprising 783
and are only made Instrumental, the better to Execute their
Treacherous Designs. — The Chiparveighs carried Belts of
Peace to the Commander of Michillimacinac, only five Days,
before they displayed their Treason. — Pondiac, the Chief of
the Detroit Indians, after having in vain tried the same Method
with Belts of Peace with the Commander at Detroit, brought
the Calumet, and after all finding himself disappointed, then
broke out in the most unheard of Outrages, and Murders without
the Fort —
After such Acts of the blackest Perfidy, Brethren, — what
Dependance can be had on such Sacred Tokens? — You could
not therefore be Surprized, if I should not trust in Words only. —
but your Actions, Brethren, are the real Proofs of your good
Intentions ; — and you Merit the greatest Acknowledgement of
my Gratitude, and all the Benefactions I am capable of making
to you, as do also those Nations, who have assured me of their
Friendship, and have not Joined these perfidious Indians, who
have disturbed the Peace of your Country. —
Brethren of the Tribe of Vrisfyako at Michillict.
Your Concern for the present unlucky Event at Michillac. I
am Satisfied is sincere, and I Return you my Thanks for your
good Disposition towards us. — I allow that no other Nation
but the Chipatveighs were concerned in it, and you may always
Depend upon my Friendship & Protection —
A Belt —
Brethren of La Bay &c —
I take your Expressions of Sincerity, and Concern with Regard
to the present Rupture with the Sauteux about Michillac. very
kind. — and your Declarations of being faithful, and Steady
Friends to the English, of which you have now given the most
glaring Proof, must Entitle you to their continual Regard &
Friendship; and you may depend upon my doing every thing in
my Power to Retaliate the Signal Services, which you have done
to my People. - Bd _
784 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren of the Tribe Nasawaquadaya —
Your Declaration of serving the English with the same Faith-
fulness, and Attachment, as you did the French, cannot fail of
Procuring you, an equal Love, and Esteem from us; and your
present Services convince me of the Truth of what you say, and
whenever an Opportunity offers they shall not pass unrewarded. —
A Belt. —
Brethren of the Ottawa Town near Michillac. —
I am persuaded by your coming down to Escort my People
to this Place, that you have exposed yourselves, and Families at
home to the Resentment of the Enemy Indians; and the Friend-
ship you have hereby so lively expressed towards the English, can
never be forgot by them, to the latest Posterity, and which will
always entitle you to their everlasting Esteem, which you well
deserve —
A Belt —
Brethren of the Eight Western Nations. —
You have in Conjunction with the rest desired me to grant
you a Trade as heretofore. — You must be sensible, Brethren,
that at the present Juncture, & Circumstances, the Road of Peace,
and Door of Trade are in a Manner Barred, and shut up to your
Country. — and as you Justly Observed, you came the most
Part of the Way hither in Darkness, and Danger, it would be
Acting an imprudent Part to expose my People afresh to the
Disasters they were just now delivered from, through your Assist-
ance, & attended with much Risque, and Danger to you. — at
Detroit, the same Obstruction of the publick Tranquility, and
Trade was intended by these perfidious disturbers of the Peace,
who gave the Blow in your Country; but there they have mis-
carried in their Design, and you will soon hear that they were
Obliged to disperse, and drop their most daring Attempt. — on
the other hand you will hear of a large Body of our Troops being
assembled there, in Order to keep open the Road of Peace, and
Door of Trade in spite of the Efforts of those Nations, who
Indian Uprising 785
designed Mischief, and Confusion thro' the whole Country. —
It is therefore at Detroit, you must look for a plentiful Trade,
until, [that] in your Country, which is full of Blood, and Devas-
tation it can be Opened, and unless Examples are made of the
Transgressors, and Satisfaction given to the Injured Party, the
like may happen again notwth. standing all you Efforts — but,
Brethn. of the friendly Nations; you shall allways find the Road
to me clear, and Open, and shall be at all times welcome & be
received with Sincerity & Affection. —
A Belt. —
Brethren —
If you seriously consider your own Welfare, and would have
a lasting Peace, and a plentiful, reasonable, and fair Trade
opened for you, and your Posterity, you must unanimously resolve
not to let this Breach of Faith pass unpunished, but chearfully,
and Cordially Join us in Chastising those base, and perfidious
Nations, who Delight in nothing but Mischief, and Devastation,
and who, by their flagitious Behavior, endeavor to Annihilate all
the Sacred Ties of Faith, and Sincerity which your Ancestors
so wisely Ordained & Instituted for the publick Tranquility, and
Welfare of their Posterity, at the same time Perverting them all
in their Power into Instruments of the most horrid Treason, and
Perfidy. — I say therefore, Brethren, if you mean to Preserve
the Intentions of these sacred Institutions, and Retain that Faith,
and Confidence which your Forefathers held for the same, and
without which no Nation can Exist, give your Assistance in Pun-
ishing those vile, wanton and perfidious Nations, who have pre-
sumed to violate them, and you will thereby Regain your former
Credit, and all Indian Nations, on the Continent will Enjoy a
Perfect, and lasting Peace, and a more plentiful Trade will be
Established for the Benefit of you, and your Posterity. —
A large Bunch of Wampum —
To which the Chief Replied, that what was Said, was very
good, & in particular, that Part which pointed out the Violation
of their Tokens of Friendship, and Alliance, and as it was a
786 Sir William Johnson Papers
Matter of great Moment, they he must Consult with his People
upon it, and would Acquaint the General when they were ready
to make their Reply. — which after some time spent in Consulta-
tions was as follows —
That they had understood every thing that was Said by the
General in his answer to them, which they said was very good,
and Just, except that Part, by which the Door of Trade was shut
up by way of Ottawa River, the Reason whereof they knew not,
as they endeavored all in their Power to keep it Open, in Tes-
timony whereof, they urged their Actions, and Behavior to our
People, — and added that, on their Return home they would
remove every Rock of Obstruction out of the Way, and make
the Road as good as ever. —
A Belt. —
That, as to their going for Trade to Detroit, it would be too
inconvenient in Respect to the Distance, as they could hardly
leave Home all Summer on account of their Corn &c — which
was their chief Sustenance, and therefore hoped the General
would grant them Trade in the way to their Towns. — In
short their whole Aim was, that the French should engross the
whole Trade, to the Excluding of the English entirely therefore,
to the Purport whereof they spoke by three Belts more ; and thro'
the whole affair there was a great Appearance of its being a
Scheme formed by the French in making the Indians their Tools
in order to Effect the abovementioned Purpose
But General Gage Observing the Intrigue, replied, that "this
would never be allowed, — that he did not mean they should
go to Detroit for their Necessaries, but that they should be
Supplied from thence, by us, — that the English, and French,
were now Subjects, equally alike to one King, and what hurted
one, hurted the other ; — he therefore could not but Suspect the
French were very much favored by the Enemy Indians since the
Commencement of the Hostilities, in which it was but too probable
they had a Hand, &c —
Meeting ended. —
Indian Uprising 787
FROM THOMAS GAGE
Montreal Aug1. 12th. 1763.
Dear Sir,
I have the Pleasure to acquaint you that the Ottawas of Arbre
Croche near Michillimakinak, have found means to get all the
Prisoners out of the Hands of the Soteurs or Chippewas, after
these last had committed their treacherous Designs against the
Post of Michillimakinak; and have escorted all the Officers &
Soldiers remaining alive, as well as all the Merchants, & as much
of their Effects as could be collected, down to this Place. The
whole Behavior of these People, has exceeded any thing that
could be expected, from Nations much more polished & refined.
It is indeed beyond Belief. They resisted the Menaces of the
Chippawas and refused any share in the Plunder.
Congresses have been held here since their Arrival, for the
Particulars of which I refer you to Cap1. Claus; They have as-
sured me, no Nation, but the Chippewas, have been concerned
in those Parts, & brought a Belt in the Names of the Sakis, Sioux,
Renards, Folles Avoines & some other Nations, who have prom-
ised to be here in the Spring. I have pressed them to assist us to
punish the Chippewas, and I think for their own sakes as they
see all Trade will be stopped, till Satisfaction is given, that all
these Nations may be brought to assist us, if we are not too
Sanguine, as soon as ever they see we have a good Force in the
Country to back them : and that we may also get several Nations
to help us to Chastize the Ottawas of Detroit. And by these
means with good Management, that the War upon the Western
Lakes may be soon brought to a happy Issue by a firm & lasting
Peace.
As for the Rascals of the Ohio, who have been the Spring
from whence all this Mischief has flowed, and I fear will be the
promotion of every thing that can hurt us for years to come ; I am
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
788 Sir William Johnson Papers
of Opinion that No Peace should be made with them, till every
Measure is tried to destroy them : But I must leave these Sugges-
tions to those who are better acquainted with the Possibility of
such Projects, that I can possibly be.
I send Cap*. Etherington1 who commanded at Michillimakinak,
to tell his own Story to Sr. Jeffery Amherst, and I shall send an
Ace1, of it, with my opinion of the use that may be made of the
several Nations I have mentioned, to Major Gladwin or the Person
who shall command the Army at Detroit, where I find a con-
siderable Body of Troops will be soon assembled. I am pushing
up some Companys of the 44th. to relieve the Light Infantry at
Fort Wm. Augustus,2 who will proceed to Niagara, and I sup-
pose from thence to Detroit, the Season is rather late for an Ex-
pedition at such a Distance, & it would be better at the Beginning,
than the End of Summer. It was unlucky that the Troops from
the Havannah did not arrive sooner. I beg my best Respects to
all your Family, & that you would believe me, with great Regard
& Esteem,
Dear Sir
Your most obedient,
& most humble Servant,
Thos. Gage
SR. WM. Johnson Bart.
INDORSED:3
Montreal Aug*'. 12th. 1763
Govr. Gages Letter
about the good Behaviour
of the Ottawas of Arbre
Croche, in preserving the Engh.
Prisoners, & Merchants effects &ca.
wch. had been taken by the
treacherous Chippewas.
1 Captain George Etherington of the 60th regiment.
2 On the St. Lawrence River near present site of Ogdensburg, N. Y.
3 First two lines in Johnson's hand.
GENERAL THOMAS GAGE
Painting by John Singleton Copley. Courtesy of
Mrs Frederick S. Moseley, Boston, Mass.
Indian Uprising 789
TO [gertruy van der heyden?]1
Jl . Li. wj.
Johnson Hall August 20th. 1763.
Sir
As I am to meet the Six Nations again in Six Days from this
Date on matters of Importance at the German Flatts,3 and as
they have all behaved extremely well hitherto (except the
Senecas) I am resolved for ye. good of ye Service, to make those
who are our friends a present, not only for their good Offices
used to quiet ye. other Nations, but also in order to attach them
the more steadfastly to our Interest, which I think a present now
will greatly contribute to, wherefore would have you Send me
ye. Several Articles mentioned in ye. enclosed Memorandum by
the first opertunity after ye. receipt of this letter, so that they may
be timely at ye. Flatts by the 27th. of this Month without fail;
otherwise it will be of bad cons[equence]4 when you send them
to Mr. John B. Van Eps, tell him to hire a Battoe, & Send it of
w,h. them imediately to the German Flatts, where I shall be ex-
pecting them.
I must Insist on a punctual compliance
of this my desire, and am Sir
Yr. Welwisher, and Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
PS. pray Send me a Bill
of Parcels along with them.
1 See Johnson Calendar, p. 177, for reply to this letter dated Aug. 24,
1763.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 Reference to this conference at German Flatts, August 26, is made
in Johnson to Amherst, Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:542.
4 Hole in MS., repaired.
790 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Copy1
Niagara, 24th August, 1763.
Sir:
Being allways glad to selebrat all oppertunityes of giving you
the earlyest Inteligence of any thing perticular intreduces me to
trouble you with this.
The Commodore arrived here on the 22d Inst, and allso the
Schooner and the Sloop from Detroit. By them we have the
following Account of the grate Luck and safe Arrival of Capt.
Duel [Dalyell]2 and his Armiment at Detroit being somewhat
remarkable, as the Indians was lying in Ambush for him which
he knew of, but the Night and Morning that he arived being
fogee Weather he got in to the Garrison without the Knowledge
of the Indians, who were soon made acquainted with it, not only
his Arrival but his Intentions, which was the next Morning he
march'd about two Miles Distance from the Garrison being
informed of some Intrenchments they had there, where he was
fired on very warmly by a Party of Indians, as he was crossing
a wooden Bridge, which was behind some Pickquets, notwith-
standing which the brave and undaunted Capt. Duel [Dalyell]
march'd the Men on to the Brest work or Trench which the
English soon got Possession of, and the Indians retreated to
another Trench they had some Distance in the Rear of the
Intrenchment where Capt. Duel behaved with the greatest Courage
and Resolution imaginable, but soon told Capt. Grant3 he was
wounded, notwithstanding which his Bravery in the Command
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 60-61 n; the
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire.
2 Brackets here and following are in the copy. Captain James Dalyell
(Dalzell) served as lieutenant in the 60th regiment of foot, and afterwards
as captain in the 2nd battalion of the Royals, or 1st regiment of foot. He
was killed in an attack on the Indians near Detroit in 1 763.
3 Captain James Grant of the 80th regiment.
Indian Uprising 791
was the same as before, but some Time after Lieut. McDougle1
informed Capt. Gray,2 belonging 55th [35th] , that Capt. Duel
[Dalyell] was wounded again and dead. Then Capt. Gray
took the Command and being informed that the Indians were
surounding them fast by the Directions of their Sachem Pondeack
and takeing Possession of the French Houses. Upon this News
the English thought proper to Retreat. Some Partys were de-
tached to drive them out and take Possession from the Indians,
which they soon did, at which Time Capt. Gray was wounded
taking Possession of a Mill, but hope he will recover. Also
Lieut. Brown3 of the 55th was wounded at the same Time. Then
Capt. Grant had the Command, who marched the Men very
regular on the Retrait into the Fort. About fifteen Men with
Major Rogers got in a House who was to bring up the Reare
and Cover the Retrate, which was soon surrounded by the
Indians and had no other way to get clear of them but by
showing them a clean pair of Heels, which he did, and a
Corporal of the 55th had a fair Tryal for, and got safe in the Fort.
There is killed and wounded in this Engagement about thirty
English, the Number of Indians is not known.
The have murdered Capt. Duel [Dalyell] in a barbarous Man-
ner by Schelping him, cutting of one of his Arms and one Leg and
takeing out his Bowels, his Body was brought in and buried in
the Fort. Last Night arrived here seventy of the 46th Reg1.
I am Sir
Your most Humble Serv't.
T.4 De Couagne.
P. S. By the Prisoners we have Account of the Seneckees, it is
suspected that they have joyned the Dellawares.
1 Lieutenant John McDougal of the 60th regiment.
2 Captain Robert Gray of the 55th regiment.
3 Lieutenant Arch. Mont. Brown of the 55th regiment.
4 No doubt a misreading for "J."
792 Sir William Johnson Papers
CANADA INDIANS TO WESTERN INDIANS
Contemporary) Copy1
[August 25, 1763]
The following Messages, consisting in four Belts of Wampum,
were Sent by the 8 Indian Nations in Canada, viz1, the Caghna-
wageys, Caneghsadarundax, Skaghquanes, Swegachies, S*. Fran-
cis, 3 River Indians, and Hurons near Quebec, among the Western
Nations two different ways, by two Birch Canoes, one thro' Lake
Ontario to Detroite, the other by the Ottawawa, or Grand River,
to Missilimakinack.
Brethren of Towaganha, or Western Indians,
"We, by this Belt of Wampum, Acquaint you that, there
is an universal Peace concluded among all the Christian Powers
in Europe, and consequently among the white People in America,
by which Peace, the King of France ceded to the King of England
all his claim, and Right, of all his Dominions, on this Continent,
as far as the River Missisippi : Wherefore You are to Consider
the King of England as the only Soveriegn over the said Terri-
tories, who, we hear, intends to put the Trade with you, and Us,
upon a very good Footing.
"Brethren; You cannot have forgot the Agreement, jointly made
between Us, and our Brethren the English when this Country
was taken, of maintaining a firm Peace, and Friendship, with one
another. We hereby acquaint you, that We are resolved Strictly
to abide by our Agreement, and expect you'll do the same.
A large white Belt, with black Spots,
in Cap111. Claus's Behalf.
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39; inclosed in Johnson to
Amherst, Aug. 25, 1 763. This message was sent to western enemy
Indians at the Congress held by Captain Daniel Claus at Caughnawagey,
July 27, 1763. See Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:542.
Indian Uprising 793
Brethren Towaganha;
"We are vastly surpris'd to hear such bad accounts from You,
and that you have forgot the Engagement, and foolishly and rashly
taken up the Hatchet against Your Brethren. You know that you
requested Us to take you into our Confederacy, and We have
Complied: but you have behav'd as unworthy Members, and
Slipt your Hold of the Covenant Chain. We by this Belt intreat,
and desire you to recollect your Selves what you are about, in
disturbing the Peace of the Confederacy, and immediately lay
down the Hatchet.
A large white Belt in behalf of the 8 Nats.
Brethren Towaganha;
"We desire you to let Us know, as soon as possible, whether
You will Comply with our Desire of laying down the Hatchet, or
not, that We may direct our Selves accordingly, and let you
know farther What We think of your inconsiderate Behaviour.
A Belt from the 8 Nations.
Brethren Towaganha;
"We would have you always to look upon Us as keeping a
Strong hold of the Chain of Friendship with our Brethren the
English; and are resolved to abide by our Engagements of
Peace for ever, and Regard the King of England as our Common
Father, who is willing to Live in Peace, and Friendship, with all
his Children the Indians, and intends to Establish a fair, and
reasonable Trade with all Indian Nations in His American
Dominions. — He does not mean to Claim your Lands as His
Property; and desires no more Priveledges than the King of
France had, which is, to carry on the Trade among You, for
your own Good, and Welfare; but if You Behave, as you have
now done, He certainly will Deprive You of it, and has it in
His Power, as You can't be Supplied by any other Nation, He
having the Entrance of the two Rivers that lead from the Sea
to your Country, and can prevent any other Nation of white
794 Sir William Johnson Papers
People to Trade with you: your present Behaviour therefore,
is enough to be our mutual Destruction."
A Belt which Cap'. Claus gave.
The Deputies after delivering the above Messages, are to Ac-
quaint them that Peace was proclaimed in Canada; and the
French in this Country, were now Become English Subjects,
and of consequence They, the Western Nations, must consider
them, and Us, as one People, who enjoy'd the same Privileges
in Trade, and any thing else; and were obliged to Submit to the
same Laws, and Government. That if the English were prevented
from Trafficking with Them, the French were likewise, &ca.
INDORSED :
1763
Messages sent by 8
Nations of Canada
Indians to the western
Nations, two different
Ways, with 4 Belts of
Wampum.
Enclosed in Sir Wm. Johnson's
of the 25th. August 1 763. —
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS1
[August 5-25, 1763]
August — Friday 5th. — a Tuscarora arrived here in 2 days
from Kanadisgo,2 who acquainted me that all was quiet in their
Country at present, & that the Sachims of ye. several Nations were
gone 5 days before he left home to the Senecas Country. —
D°. Die Gawehe, Tagawaron & another Oneida came with an
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Johnson's hand.
2 Kanadesaga, village a little northwest of Geneva. Beauchamp,
Aboriginal Place Names, p. 158.
Indian Uprising 795
Answer to my Belt of Enquiry, sent some days ago to know
what was the reason of the late Alarm, & what the news was in
their Country. —
Tagawaron spoke as follows —
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyagey,
We three now present are sent by our Nation, to assure You
that they were entirely ignorant of the late Alarm, until yr.
Messingers arrived in our Castle with the news, & told us yr.
People were assembled at ye. German Flatts In arms, wh.
surprised them, as they were entirely ignorant of any Designs
agsl. that place at the time, they now desired us to repeat the
Assurances given You by all the Nations when lately at ye.
Flatts, viz1., that they will give you ye. earliest intelligence they
possibly can [Should a]1 of the Designs of the Enemy & Confirm
what they say with this Belt —
A Belt returned —
[He then proceeded &] The Tuscaroras told me that there
were Deputies from five Nations of ye. Ottatvaes now at Kan-
adasege)) in ye. Senecas Country, waiting ye. Arrival of those
Sachims of ye. Six Nations who are gone to sd. Place, & that it
is reported they are come to acquaint ye. 6 Nations of what they
have done, & to desire peace of Us. —
Saturday 6th. August — the Oneidaes desired a Meets, on wh.
I went with them to the Council Room, then Ta\axoaron Spoke as
follows.
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyagey
Takeing 4 Strings of Wampum in his hand wh. I had lately sent
them desireing they would imediately desist committing any the
least depredations on the Inhabitants, otherwise that I should resent
it, or even their Spreading false reports at this time. He then
returned the Strings with ye. Strongest Assurances that w*. I
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
796 Sir William Johnson Papers
desired should be complied with, & nothing more of the kind
ever happen. —
returned the Strings —
then taking a Black Belt in his hands spoke as follows
Brother,
What imprudent Steps have been now twice taken by our
Nation, you are acquainted with. We who are now present & sent
to You by the whole Nation Speak ye. Sentiments of all the
Warriors & Young Men thereof, and acknowledge our faults, for
differing with, or hurting our Bretheren the Germans Properties,
we all declare that what harm was done by us, was by orders of
ye. Sachims, but on yr. message a few days ago, All ye. Warriors
met at Kanaivarohare, and then & there came to a resolution to live
for ye. time to come in [peace] greater freindship wth. their
Bretheren, & nevermore obey any orders of their Sachims wh.
might be repugnant to their present good Intentions & resolutions,
but would follow their advice in anything that tended to ye.
good of their Nation, — then added that they were directed to
acquaint me that as soon as these Sachims who were gone to the
Senacas, returned, they were to meet, & consider of ways
& means to make [up] Satisfaction to those Germans whose
Cattle their People killed or took away, & would there also
acquaint me wth. the Steps they [map] shall take — then con-
cluded with assureing me that they ye. Warriors were now ashamed
& heartily sorry for what had been done & begged I would
forgive it, & that ye. Sachims were determined shortly to do the
Same —
a large black Belt
Brother
[We] with these Strings of Wampum we deliver You the
words of our Sachims, wh. they charged us with and are as follows.
Brother
We ye. Sachims rejoice at ye. good resolutions taken by our
Young Men, to live forever in peace & freindship with their
Indian Uprising 797
Bretheren ye. English, & to leave of doing mischief of any kind
to them for ye. future which has often given offence to our
Bretheren, we acknowledge our faults, & heartily desire for-
giveness, and by these Strings we do Asure You that as soon
as the rest of our Sachims return from ye. Senecas, we will
imediately all meet, and fall upon the best method we possibly can,
of removeing all uneasiness & Heart burnings from yr. Mind &
those of our Bretheren who [mal?] have any way suffered by our
People, also [fall upon] endeavour to make them ample re-
compence for ye. same, indeed we have made a beginning already
as You now see, by takeing back a horse from one of our Young
Men which he Stole from ye. Flatts, & will get all we can of
everry kind, & restore them to ye. owners —
3 Strings —
then Sir Wm. in answer to the first String, told them that he
was glad to find [that] his Message had so good an effect, as
the contrary would oblidge him to act such a part as would be
verry hurtfull to them, & disagreable to himself. —
Bretheren
[your] the open [declarations] Confession You have now
made of your Past faults, and the sincere promises of Amendment
for the future, looks well, and if strictly adhered to, will be ye.
best means of reconcileing your injured [Bretheren] & Justly
incensed Bretheren; I cannot but express ye. greatest surprise to
hear that those whose duty & business it is to preserve peace &
good order, should think of Sufferring, much less of encourageing
the Young Men to commit any Acts of Violence, as they now
stand charged with by You, & I expect that on their return
from ye. present Meeting, they will act such a part as will confirm
your & their Words. & shew Us that they & You are sensible of,
and sorry for Your Error, — Which I cannot but Recommend to
them & you, & in that case, I shall take care that the Inhabitants
behave in a freindly manner to You, which they will readily
do as soon as You make them Satisfaction for what is passed, &
798 Sir William Johnson Papers
behave better for the future — I shall let yr. People soon know
ye. Damage done —
A Belt —
I have now only to recommend to Your Nation a strict obser-
vance of the promises you now made in their name, and to tell
You that I expect You will according to yr. [promises] assurances
repeatedly made to me, give me the earliest intelligence you
possibly can of any Designs You find the Enemy may have
against Our Settlements or Posts, which, in case You do not
choose to act openly with us against them, is the least, as
Bretheren, You can do. —
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyagey
We shall truely report to our Nation what You have Said, and
are certain it will be agreable & complied with. We are now to
acquaint You that the Warriors of our Nation (more particularly
those of Kdndrvdrohdre) have determined to oppose the 111 Designs
of any other Inds. whatsoever, agst. You, and will whenever there
is an opertunity, act accordingly, but, as this resolution is only
taken by those of yl. Settlement, we should be glad you would not
as yet make it publick, until you see w*. part ye. rest will act. —
in ye. meantime You may depend on our giveing you all ye.
Intelligence we possibly can —
I then thanked them for their good disposition towards Us, and
[then] layed before them the many advantages it would be to
[all] those Nations who would openly declare themselves our
freinds, & act accordingly, and on the other hand, the inevitable
ruin wh. a contrary conduct must bring upon them, then concluded
with acquainting them, that I would take care of such as Joined his
Majestys Troops, for wh. purpose I intended soon sending for such
things as are necessary. — for ye. present, gave them Some Money
to buy a few necessarys, as a compensation for their trouble in
comeing so far, as well as for the freindly part they determined
to act. —
Indian Uprising 799
Wednesday 10th. of August — Severall of ye. Mohawk
Sachims & Warriors came to me with a great complaint, viz1,
that a Number of People were Settled and still Settleing on
Lands of theirs near to Saraghtoga, wh. they reserved for their
hunting and without wh. they could not have any game, also cutting
Saw Logs out of their Land, adding that such proceedings were
unfair, & unBrotherlike, and that if they were not prevented going
on with sd. Settlement, they must look upon us as endeavouring to
root them out of the Country, and therefore would try to do
themselves Justice.
Sir Wm. told them it was the first he had heard of it, and
assured them that his Majesty and those in power had no design of
takeing their Lands or Hunting Grounds from them, that he would
enquire into it, and endeavour to put a Stop to such Settlement,
unless they had a Just Title to Said Lands, and did at ye. same
time write a letter by Hendrick a Mohawk to Hendk. Van
Dewerky at Saraghtoga, to know who were Settleing on sd.
Lands —
Thursday 1 1 th. — Nickus of ye. Oneidaes Sett of for Oneida,
& is to bring me all the Intelligence he can learn, also ye. present
disposition of ye. five Nations &ca. & to return in about 1 0 Days —
D°. Die — I heard from Ogden that ye. 46th. Regim1. were on
their March for Niagra, whereupon I sent to acquaint ye. 2 Mo-
hawks Castles of it, desireing they would not be alarmed
thereat, & that they would acquaint the Oneidas thereof, this I
sent by Zacharia's Wife with 3 Strings of Wampum. —
Monday August 15th. — Nickus returned haveing been no
farther than Cook's where he mett his Brother & his Family.
He called me on one Side in a private place, and with ye.
greatest concern told me he had heard verry disagreable News,
Viz*, that Minister Lappius1 last Sunday told his Congregation in
Public, that Nickus, meaning himself, had told me to be on my
guard, as the Conajohare Inds. who are Ury Klocks Party were
determined to attempt my Life at any rate, that he Lappius said
1 The Rev. John Casper Lappius.
800 Sir William Johnson Papers
he heard me say so, & that I had given Nickus a fine laced Coat
for giveing me the Information. — Nickus further said that as he
was comeing by Ury Klocks, the Women of some of that Party
came to him, & desired he would not come near Klocks Indians
then drunk, least they might put him to Death for being so much
my freind, He took their advice, & lodged a distance from
thence, but next Morning when they had got a little Sober he
came & Spoke to them abf. it, and desired they would come
down with him to me, & hear what I should say thereon, they
promised to come & bring ye. Minister wth. them as this Day.
He says they talked away at a great rate & full of anger. — He
told me a great deal more concerning the conduct of Said Indians
Sett on by Klock but not worth Mentioning, being only Indian
Evidence. —
D°. Die — His Brother Tawistawis & Family Arrived here,
but none of Klocks Party came as he expected & they promised. —
Wednesday 1 7th. — they all Sett of for their Castle in order
to take care of their Corn &ca., and in case the Sachims of ye. 5
Nations who went to ye. Senecas Country, did not succeed, and
times grew more troublesome, they assured me they would
imediately come back to me & remain wth. me, in the mean time
promised to let me hear all Intelligence they could learn. I
thanked them, & told them they should be welcome to me, in
such case, then gave them some Money & provisions for their
Journey.
Friday 19*. — Joseph a Conajohare Indian with some others
came here & acquainted me that the Sachims who were at ye.
Meeting in ye. Senecas Country were returned, & that they desired
him to let me know that the Six Nations would [be at ;pe. ] meet you
at German Flatts in Eight days. In order to let me know ye.
result of Said Meeting &ca. I sent said Joseph Early a Saturday
Morning to desire Abram Cheif of the Mohawks to come to me,
that I might hear what was done at ye. late Meeting, so as to be
able to take proper measures, & be prepared for ye. intended Meet-
ing to be held at ye. German Flatts. —
Indian Uprising 801
Saturday 20th. 1763, — Abraham cheif of the Mohawks
Arrived here from ye. Seneca Meeting, and acquainted me yl. the
Six Nations desired me to meet them ye. 26th. at ye. German
Flatts, where they would let me know all y*. passed at ye. aforesd.
Meeting, desireing at ye. same time that I would apprise ye. officers
at ye. Several Posts from the 3 Rivers this way of their comeing,
and that they would let them have a little provisions. —
Sunday 2 1 st. — I sent an Indn. Lad named Joseph with a
Letter for Lieu1. Co11. Campbel1 commanding at Fort Stanwix
desireing he would acquaint the other Posts therewith. I also
wrote to Justices Harkemer & Frank to provide provisions for the
Meeting. —
Thursday 25th. — I sent Cap*. Butler2 to the German Flatts
to bring down the 5 Nations here to my House, as I am not able to
go up to the Flatts thro indisposition. —
Gaghswangarora & Tyagaivehe his son both Tuscarora Sachims
arrived here, and after ye. usual ceremony on Meets, they, with a
Black Belt of Wampum, earnestly requested my Assistance in
getting & bringing all their People from ye. Southward, by such
road as I should Judge best. —
A Black Belt
I told them, that, as the times were now troublesome & dangerous,
owing to the Rash, and unnatural proceedings of ye. Senecas &
others, I thought it best to defer attempting a Journey of yl. kind
until we had brought those Wicked People to their Senses, & that
I would then assist them in the Affair. —
Gave a Belt in Exchange
D°. Die — recd. a Packet from Cap*. Claus contA most part
of his proceedings with ye. Canada Inds [on nrp] in Consequence
of my Instructions to him, after the Indians had commenced hos-
tilities — also some transactions with ye. Ottawaes &ca. — I had
1 Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell of the 1 7th regiment, stationed
at Fort Stanwix.
2 Captain John Butler.
802 Sir William Johnson Papers
likewise a letter1 from Govr. Gage concerning ye. good conduct
of ye. Inds. who brought our People & part of their effects from
Missilimackinac.2
Next day I wrote Gen1. Gage3 my Sentiments regarding such
measures as I Judged most proper to be pursued by us on ye.
present occasion. I also wrote Captn. Claus a letter with directions
how to act with the Canada & other Indians, desireing him to find
out ye. determined resolutions of said Inds., and transmit me an
Acclt. thereof as soon as possible.4 —
TO THOMAS GAGE
Df.5
Johnson Hall Aug'. 25ih. 1763 —
Dear Sir
I am much obliged to you for the news you Communicated in
your favor of the 12th. Ins'. [anJ]6 it gives me pleasure to find
the friendly part which the Ottawas in the neighborhood of
Michilimackinac have acted, as well as that the Safyis &c seem so
well disposed, and I apprehend that by Shewing those Nations who
are our Friends some favors on this occasion and by a prudent
Management many of them may be induced to assist our Troops
in the Spring, as I believe little can be performed for the rest
of the Season in that distant Quarter —
I heartily concurr with you in thinking that those on the Ohio
& the Chenussios, Shawanese & Delawares who were certainly
the first authors of the present disturbances should meet with the
1 Gage to Johnson, Aug. 12, 1763. Ante p. 787.
2 The Ottawa Indians of Arbre Croche saved the English prisoners
and the merchants' goods that had been taken by the Chippewas.
3 Johnson to Gage, Aug. 25, 1 763. Post.
4 See proceedings of Indian conference between Gage and leading men
of the Ottawa nation held at Montreal, Aug. 9, 1 763.
5 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9 ; in Guy Johnson's hand.
6 Ante p. 787. Words italicized and in brackets crossed out in manuscript.
Indian Uprising 803
first & severest punishment and, as the greater part of them lye
more convenient for distressing our Frontiers, [and] as well as
more open to an invasion from us, that the first blow should be
struck there, which if successfull will enable us to prosecute our
future attempts against the rest with less difficulty & more assurance
of Success —
Two or three Different attempts at one & the same time will
Divide the Enemys force, as well as greatly alarm them, and I
am hopefull that the Light Infantry will reach the rest time enough
to prove an agr cable and usefull reinforcement, as [the] Our
Numbers there are but inconsiderable, and much cannot be Ex-
pected from the Weakness, & bad state of health of the Troops
from the Havannah —
The 46th. amounting in all to something less than 200, & of them
many Sick, passed by a few Days ago for Niagara where L*.
Col1. Browning1 is to command as also Some Plattoons under
Cap1. Gardiner2 amounts to ab'. 80 Men, who had been discharged
from the Sev1. Regiments, & Enlisted at N York, who are to go
on Service — Whatever is done against Ind\ must be by surprize,
for, unless they are very strong, [&] None of them will be found
on reachs their Villages, and the Difficulty to surprize Inds.
who are now on their Guard, & will have constant spys Will
appear very evident, as well as the dangers & Ambuscades the
Troops will be hourly liable to, in marching to, & returning from
their Castles —
I sometime ago I sent Two Small parties of Mohocks to Cap1.
Dalyell3 who may prove very serviceable in procuring intelligence
which is the most necessary article in an Indn. War —
Capt Claus has informed me of the Congresses held in your
Government and I am heartily glad to find thereby that the Indians
there behave in so friendly a manner toward the English which
really merits our favor, the dispensing of which at some times [/]
1 Lieutenant Colonel William Browning of the 46th regiment.
2 Catpain Valentine Gardiner who was later sent against the Indians.
See Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:541.
3 Captain James Dalyell (Dalzell) of the 1st regiment.
804 Sir William Johnson Papers
will [be] prove in the End rather a Saving to the Government
than otherwise —
The act of the 6 Nations who lately sent Deputys to the
Senecas to Desire them to lay Down the Hatchet, have sent me
word that they desire to meet me in a few Days at the German
flatts, to acquaint me with the result of their Negociations & their
Sentiments thereon, but my present indisposition obliges me to call
them hither, when I shall have an opportunity of knowing the 6
Nations Sentiments more fully than at my late Meeting at the
German flatts —
I shall be always happy in your friendly correspondence, and
with the best respects of my Family, I beg leave to assure you that
I am with the Greatest Esteem
Dear Sir
Your most Obed1. & Very humble Serv1.
The Honble Major Genl Gage
INDORSED:
Johnson Hall Aug*. 25th. 1 763
To Govr. Gage on Indn. affairs &ca.
Ent* Vol. 8*. IikK Reck Page 538 —
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
Montreal 29th. Aug1. 1763
Hond. Sir
The Indians of Caghnawagey have a few Days ago send a
Deputation, to congratulate Us on the Peace & that this Country
remained the King of Englands, at the same time they had a Belt
by which they made Application to General Gage about some
Land wch. they think (:& I believe with reason:) they were
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
Indian Uprising 805
wronged out of by the Jesuits living in this Town, who got it
cunningly inserted into their patent when formerly granted them by
the King of France, and therefore the Indns. looked upon it that
Gen1. Gage as Governour could breake sd. Patent, and reinstate
them of what they formerly possessed since the Country was
now ours ; But this being not the first time they petitioned the Gen1,
ab*. the same thing & he giving them them to understand that he
could do nothing in it, I prepared them against the worst, and
made them sensible as much as lay in my Power of the Difficulty
of taking peoples Property away and braking a Patent, at the same
time told them I would push the thing to the General as much as I
could. Acordingly I went, but received the same Answer he gave
before, and assured them that if it was in his Power they should
have their Request granted; to do Gen1. Gage Justice he has
interested himself greatly to get them the Lands back they now
occupy and which the Jesuits at Caghnaw?. meaned to get from
them by laying claim to them as you may see by the Sentence
given by Gen1. Gage, wch. is inserted in your Records. But
the Lands now in Question are adjoining their present Patent
and contain abl. 1 Vi Mile in Breath & 6 in Depth beginning
at a Creek called la Tortu or Turtle alias Teonowaghraghwige,
and as above mentioned claimed & fraudulently inserted in
a Patent solely granted to the Society of the Jesuits by Lewis
the 14th.
When the Jesuit that obtained the Patent returned from
france wch. is about 80 year ago he acquainted the Indians of the
Kings pleasure in giving the Jesuits Patent at the same time in a
public Meeting told & explained their own Bounds to them wch.
he said were from said Creek to another Creek abf. ?>Vi leagues
up the River Sl. Lawrence on the South Side, called Chateaugay
or Yoroghsarheough, wch. he said was bounded between said
Creeks that they & their Posterity might not mistake the Limits,
desiring them also to hand it down to their children to keep it all-
ways fresh in their Memory ; when all the while the Indians Patent
wch. he then delivered to them did not come within Vi Mile near
said Creek of Tortu, and thus they were made easy for that time
806 Sir William Johnson Papers
as they then lived near said Creek, but in course of time were by
their Spiritual fathers induced to shove up farther & farther till
they came where they live now; That they might take possession
& hire out sd. Lands for the Benefit of the Society ; The Priests at
Caghnawagey not satisfied with what their Antecessors courtailed
of the Indians Lands tried to follow the same Method by making
Claim & hiring out some of the Lands they live now upon, but
They could not bring it to bear Under our Governm1. and were
cast & dispossessed of them, and when the Letter of the Patent
was explained to the Indns. the Jesuitical Fraud was found out by
false pretext & different Bounds from what they were acquainted
with by their Fathers, and which brought on the present Com-
plaint. —
When I gave them the Generals Answer which was that he
could not go from the Letter of the Patent they were downcast,
and after reflecting awhile told me they were in hopes that one
Remedy could be tried yet which was to apply to you as the Chief
Director of their Affairs, to lay their Case before the King and in
their Behalf implore his Goodness & Pleasure to grant them
their Request. — This is therefore wl. this Deputation are sent
upon to you, and in my Opinion the only proper time they may
have a chance of carrying their point, for it is thought by every
Body that the Estate of the Jesuits here will fall to the Crown,
since their Society is broke in France, which of Consequence makes
void any Grant given them by that Crown, and if this Affair is
seasonably represented to the King, the Land in Question may
easily be granted to those injured People, which would lay them
under an Obligation to us for ever. — I dont know I have given you
a clear Insight into the Affair having been interrupted, but I am in
hopes to be time enough back before you write to England when I
may perhaps be able to give you more minute Circumstances &
Light into the thing, all the Indns. in this Quarter being easy
& quiet, and in a little better than a Months time will all be gone
hunting. — The Missilmakk. Indians left this last Tuesday well
contented & satisfied, but they were soon replaced by the Augh-
guisasne and Hurons from Quebec, these two Villages are the
Indian Uprising 807
quietest Indns. in this Country and their Sincerity may be depended
upon, One of ye. Latter was at Sf. Josephs when cutt off by the
Coudouadamies acting as Interpr. to one of our Traders, whose
& Mr. Shlossers1 Life he was the Means of saving by risquing
his own and behaved extreamly well, he told me the Senecas were
the principal cause of the present Disturbances, having seen the
War belt they sent to the S*. Joseph Indns. early this Spring wh.
was one out of 5. they sent to the Nats. to strike the English, who
(they sent word to all Indn. Nations to the westward : ) were ready
to wage war agst. & destroy any Indn. Nation upon the Continent.
I believe the French may have privately pushed on & encouraged
the Broil but the heaviest charge in my hble Opinion will fall upon
those that sent them such rash and threatning Messages, yet since
it is gone so far vigorous Efforts should be made to chastize them
if possible otherwise they will grow too insolent, but the Measures
we hear are to be taken for that purpose are too trifling and only
will enrage the Villains the more, And nothing but Awe & fear
will keep the rest of the five Nations quiet. —
I hope french Peter2 & the head Warriours have been with you
before now, of whom I think you will have had what Intelligence
you may Want from this Quarter.
I conclude with all due Respect and Compliments to the family
Hond. Sir
Your most Dutyfull
and Obedient Son
Dan. Claus
To the Honble.
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar.
1 Ensign Francis Schlosser, Commandant at St Josephs.
2 An Indian.
808 Sir William Johnson Papers
INDORSED:1
Montreal 29* Augst. 1 763
From Capt Claus concern^
the Inck complaints of a Tract of
Land of which they were deprived
by the Jesuits at Montreal
Entd. in Vol : 8* Ind* Recds - 5 1 3
RECEIPT OF ADAM TERRENCE AND BARNABAS CONER
TO ALEXANDER MCKEE
D.S.2
[Fort Pitt August 31, 1763]
] of Alexander McKee Assistant for Indian [
]at Fort Pitt: Fifty three Pounds Eleven Shillings
] Pence Penna Currancy ; being the full or our [
] Smith & Assistant Gun Smith for the Indian
] from the 1 $l May to the 3 1 st. August 1 763 —
AM. Terrence
Barnabas Coner3
FROM RICHARD PETERS
s Philadelphia !«7b' 1763.
I take this opportunity by Mr Croghan of thanking you for
the Pains you have taken in placing the unjust attempt of the
Connecticut people before the Indians in its true and proper
1 In Guy Johnson's hand.
2 In New York State Library. Listed in Johnson Papers, 4:195, as
destroyed by fire.
3 Adam Terrence and Barnabas Coner (Couner) , gunsmiths.
4 In New York State Library.
Indian Uprising 809
Light. As to the dispute between the Subjects of his Majesty about
Rights to Land, it is of little consequence who is in the right in
comparison with a breach of Faith and manifest Injustice done to
our Indian Allies.
But at the same time that we are endeavouring to prevent
injustice being done to ye Indians it is their duty to do no wrong
themselves. This however I think they have not guarded against
in their Answer to the Governor of Connecticut wherein the
Deputies say that when the Six Nations are disposed to sell that
Land they will sell it to those wicked people that have imposd upon
them so much already. Whereas they must have known that they
had given in the most solemn manner to Mr Penn the repeated
Assurance by deeds under their hands and Seals that the Proprs
should have the Lands by their Grant when ever they inclind to
sell them.
It may not be improper to inform you that in all our present
troubles some of the Connecticut People, more or less, have
been peaceably living above Wyomink and the Indians seem no
ways disatisfied with their being there. They even propose as I
am informed by the means of these New England People who
disregard all Laws to be provided with Powder and Goods.
This woud in the present disposition of the Indians be of very
bad consequence, but how it is to be prevented I cannot tell.
War among ourselves woud be a pleasing Scene to these Savages
and they woud not fail to encourage it. Something therefore
effectual must come from home or this obstinacy in the Tres-
passers will breed much confusion.
Your Influence has appeared to be very great indeed with the
Six Nations in your late Conferences with them in obtaining from
them such a candid Acknowledgment that they are not concerned
in these late hostilities and that they woud try their Interest to
prevent as many as they coud from joining in these unjust
measures. I hope their disappointment in not stopping the Reinfore-
ment going to Pitsburg — and their want of Success in their at-
810 Sir William Johnson Papers
tempts against Fort Detroit will bring the Enemy Indians to
Sobriety and a just Sense of their wickedness. The Causes of these
vile proceedings in the Indians are differently represented, and it
woud be of signal Service to this Province coud I if it be proper
be well informed of the truth of Facts that I might be able to give
good advice to our new Governor when he arrives. I do not chuse
to meddle or concern myself with publick affairs any more and
yet it may have its use, if asked, to speak what is right and true in
Indian Affairs.
Mr Croghan is so well acquainted with all that has been
done, or is desird to be done by the Proprietaries either as to ye
Connecticut affair or any further Purchase of Lands for the sake of
a certain Boundry between the Indians and the Proprietaries, that
I can confide in any thing that shall be said by or to him as to
Terms or any other matter of Consequence.
I most heartily pray for the Continuance of your health and
Spirits — that things may be duly considered and settled at any
Conferences to be held with the Indians respecting their and our
future Behaviour towards one another either as to Trade or Lands.
I am with a very sincere esteem
Dear Sir
Your most obliged
humble Servant
Richard Peters
indorsed:1
Septb'. 1 st. 1 763
Mr. Peters Letter
In Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 81 1
FROM WILLIAM EYRE
Copy1
N&» York 2d.SepK 1763
DR. SR. William
Hie Bearer Mr. Gilliland,2 is a Person in Trade here, who
I believe is very industrious and is willing to buy Land: in this
shape he is willing to wait upon you first, in order to communicate
his Intentions, & to know if they should meet with yr. Approbation
before he makes any Purchases.
We expect daily News of our Party's getting by Land to the
Detroit. I wish they may be as Successful as those Under Col:
Bouquet in their Way to Pittsburgh. A Man of War, or Packet is
expected Soon. I hope you enjoy health, long may it be yr. good
fortune, which is the hearty desire of Dr. Sr. Wm,
Your Most Ob*. Serv*.
Will: Eyre
indorsed :
New York 2< 7K 1 763
Co11. Eyres Letter
1 From a copy made before the capitol fire of 1911 ; original in New
York State Library destroyed by fire. See Johnson Calendar, p. 1 78.
2 William Gilliland.
812 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Copy1
Niagara, 8lh Sep', J 7 63.
S*:
In my last I wrote you that ye Sloop was lost upon Lake Erie,
since ye have been on Shore they have been attacked by a few
stragling Indians, we have lost three Men in ye Breastwork and one
out that was scalped. Dan1 & ye Rest of the Indians behaved
very well.
De Couagne.
FROM COLLIN ANDREWS
Copy
Cat Fish Creek, 9th Sept™ 1763.
14 Mills on Lak Eria.
Dr:
According to Daniel Oughnour's3 Desire I now take the Free-
dom to write to you. Hie 8th ultm we have been cast away at
this Place which detained him from Proseiding to Detroit, but
he says he'll go forward and deliver your Belts and bring you
an Answer from the different Nations according to your Directions.
The 3d Inst we had 3 Men kill by a small Partey of Indians.
Daniel spoke to them at little Distance from the Breastwork but
they would not tell what Nation they were, he says he believes
they are Cinices [Senecas] .4 We expect the Scooner from Detroit
dayly. Aaron & 5 Indians went in her to Detroit. Daniel gives his
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 75n. ; the
original in the New York State Library was destroyed by fire; Johnson
Calendar p. 1 78.
2 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 75n. ; the
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire.
3 A Mohawk.
4 Brackets in the copy.
Indian Uprising 813
Comp* to you & Familey and desire the Favour of you in case you
see his Wife to tell her that he is well. Sir excuse my Freedom in
writing in such a maner for I have had the Fever & Eague those
several Days.
I am Sir your most
obl Humb1 Servant,
Collin Andrews.
P. S. Capt. Coghran1 gives his Complements to you, he has used
Daniel extremely well. —
FROM THOMAS MONCRIEFFE
Copy2
Fort Johnson. Sep 1 3th. 20 minutes
past 5 P.M. [1763]
Dear Sir Wm.
'Tis so long an interval since I had the pleasure to see you,
that I am much mortified at not meeting with you here. My affairs
requiring dispatch I am obliged to leave Sr. Jeffrey's letter for you.3
The Gen1, seems determined to punish the enemy at Detroit,
before he will incline to any pacific measures, & as he also chooses
you should continue the object of their affection, he would not have
you concerned in their punishment; but when the time comes that
he may think proper to treat with them, he then proposes you should
make the Treaty. I should be glad you would observe The latter
part of Sir Jeffrey's letter. All the Letters & orders of which I am
the bearer, the Gen1, gave me with a flying seal for my own in-
formation. I have put a wafer under yours & leave it with the old
lady to be forwarded to you immediately. Probably a line from
you may overtake me at Oswego before I have the opportunity of
1 Captain of a sloop destroyed by Indians.
2 In Massachusetts Historical Society, Francis Parkman collection.
See note, Johnson Papers, 4:203-4, of catalogue listing of this letter.
3 Amherst to Johnson, Sept. 10, 1763, Johnson Papers, 4:201-3.
814 Sir William Johnson Papers
a vessel to put-off, & if you are good enough to give me any hints
or information, I shall be obliged to you. I sincerely wish you good
health & all happiness.
& am, Dear Sir Wm. with great affection
& respect, Your most obedient
T. MONCRIEFFE
To Sir William Johnson.
FROM JOHN STOUGHTON
Contemporary Copy1
Lake Erie, Sept'. 16th. 1763 —
Sir
You have undoubtedly heard of the Loss of the Sloop : we are
now taking her up to save her Irons, and such other Materials as
may be useful in Constructing another. — The Schooner arrived
Yesterday from Detroit, where nothing Material has happened
since Dalyell's2 Affair; — but she was attacked on her Passage
up the River about seven Miles this side of Detroit, and had her
Master with one Man killed, and three wounded. — the Indians
attacked her with Towhawks, and were, some of them desperate
enough to get upon the Bowsprit, from whence they were dislodged
with Spears, they confess they had 18 Indians killed, and 20
wounded; but it is probable their Loss is much more Consider-
able. — The five Mohawks that were on Board went on Shore
before the Attack, and are detained at the Huron Village by
Pondiaclt. —
I am &c —
J. Stoughton3
1 Extract in Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Captain James Dalyell of the 1 st regiment.
3 Lieutenant John Stoughton of the New York regiment.
Indian Uprising 815
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Contemporary Copy1
Niagara 16th. Sepr. 1763 —
Sir
I have to acquaint you that the Savages have lain by for some
time since their Attack upon Cap1. Cochran's Sloop which was cast
away, [and] notwithstanding the King's Waggons, Teams &c
daily hurried from lower Landing to little Niagara; yet they
suffered them to pass, and repass under an Escort of 20, or 30 at
most, with an Officer; — but am to acquaint you that on the 1 3th.
Ins*, they made an Attack on the above said Escort, and Waggons,
Teams &c, within three Miles of lower landing, — Upon in-
formation being received of this from some that escaped, 70 Men
were sent to their Assistance; but mellancholy was their Fate;
for they were so massacred that 64 were buried yesterday by
Major Wilkins2 who went in pursuit of them, and returned wth.
this Accf. — I have endeavored to find out what Tribe or Nation
of Indians were concerned in this affair; yet can't say, but believe
them, with others to be the Senecas,
I am &c —
Officers Killed
Lieu*. Campbell3 of the 80*
Lieu1. Frazer4 80lh.
Cap*. Johnson5 of the
New Jersey Reg1.
De Couagne —
Lieu1. Deyton6 of the Yorkers
Lieu*. Rosco7 of the Royal
Artillery —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 6.
2 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander of the Niagara
post.
3 Lieutenant George Campbell.
4 Lieutenant William Fraser.
5 See Etherington to Johnson, Sept. 1 7, 1 763, which places Johnson
in the New York regiment.
6 Lieutenant Abraham Dayton.
7 Lieutenant John Rosco.
816 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM WILLIAM BROWNING
Niagara Sept. 17th 1763
Sir
I Believe De Coignie2 has Informed you of the fatall blow
the Carrys. Place has Recd. Just on m. Arrival before I had recd.
Entirly the Command; two Comp^. of Wilmots3 Entirely Cutt
off, some of ye. R1. Americans & Provincials with all the officers
that were out, the oxen horses Waggons all destroyd Some of
the former Carryd off, along the Seneca Path they have got
the Ammunition Arms & Cloathing of the two Compy*. which I
am affraid will too much Encourage them to more mischief, it is
full time to Check them in this Career with a Respectable force
Least it Shoud Run too far, which I hope will be Seen below.
Majr. Wilkins4 has orders to Establish Presquile and Majr.
Gladwin5 is to be supported. I am sorry to have So disagreable
news to write you thus in hurry to avoid detaing. the Express.
Y11. be so good Sir not to mention what I write as you will have
it more full from better Authority —
I am Sr. yr. most Obed1. Hum. Serv
Will: Browning6
:In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 Jean Baptiste de Couagne to Johnson, Sept. 16, 1763, ante p. 815.
3 Colonel Montague Wilmot of the 80th regiment.
4 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander of the Niagara
post.
5 Lieutenant Colonel Henry Gladwin of the 80th regiment, commandant
at Detroit. On Sept. 1 7, 1 763 Gladwin was made Lieutenant Colonel.
6 Lieutenant Colonel William Browning of the 46th regiment.
Indian Uprising 817
Wilmots
Officers Killd
Ll. Campbell3
Ll. Frazeer2
L*. Rosco3 Artilb.
Capt. Johnston4
Lieu1. Deyton5
P
rovin1
INDORSED :
Niagara Sept. 1 7. 1 763
From Col1. Browning, an ace1.
of the defeat at Niagara Carrys place
EntJ. in Vol: 8* Ind». Rec<k Page 535.
FROM GEORGE ETHERINGTON
A. D. S.6
Niagara 17th Sep1. 1763.
Dear Sir
just as you imagin'd I overtook the 46th Regiment before they
got to this place which was on the twelvth instant — the next day
an express arriv'd from the little landing telling us that the Wag-
gons with an Escort of a Serj*. and Twenty four Men of the
80th Regiment were cutt of betwixt that Post and the upper
1 Lieutenant George Campbell of the 80th regiment.
2 Lieutenant William Fraser of the 80th regiment.
3 Lieutenant John Rosco of the Royal Artillery.
4 Captain — Johnson (Johnston) of the New Jersey, or New York,
regiment.
5 Lieutenant Abraham Dayton (Deyton) of the New York regiment.
6 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. Extract in Indian
Records, Vol. 6. (Referred to in postscript, Johnson to Lords of Trade,
Sept. 25, 1763, Doc. Rel. to Col Hist. N. Y., 7:562.)
818 Sir William Johnson Papers
landing, and that Leu*. Campbell1 & Frazer2 with two Companys
of the 80th were gone to the Waggons, upon which Major Wil-
kens3 with all the 60 Reg1, that were here sett out to support Mr
Campbell, but on our arrival at the little landing wee were in-
form'd by two of the Men that came in Wound that the two
Compy8. were intirly cutt of and the Indians were very numberous
some say'd five hundred and some say'd four. Major Wilkins
stayd at the little landing till the arrival of a reinforcement from
the 46th should arrive but before they came it was night, and it
was then thought too late to proceed Accordingly we all came
back to the Fort that night and sett off next morning very early
when we came up to the graves we found Leut Campbell and
Sixteen Men on the road all stript and scalpt and thirty two
more in the same situation which the Enemy had thrown down
the Rocks which with what men we found dead afterwards we
can make out [seven/p] sixty men kild and eight or nine wounded
the Names of the officers are as follows. Cap*. Johnson4 & Leu1
Dayton5 of the Yorkers Leu,s. Campbell and Frazer of the light
Infantry and Leut Rosco6 of the Artillery, they have kild all the
Bullocks and horses except a very few, an which were not in
the Teems and those cant be found — by every thing that we
can learn this is done by the Senecas please Excuse the inexact-
ness of this scrawl and belive me
Dear Sir
your most Obedint
and very Humb Sarvant
Geo: Etherington7
Sir William Johnson
1 Lieutenant George Campbell of the 80th regiment.
2 Lieutenant William Fraser of the 80th regiment.
3 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander of the Niagara
post.
4 Captain — Johnson of the New Jersey, or New York, regiment.
5 Lieutenant Abraham Dayton (Deyton) of the New York regiment.
6 Lieutenant John Rosco of the Royal Artillery.
7 Captain George Etherington of the 60th regiment.
Indian Uprising 819
INDORSED :
Niagara Septr. 1 7th. 1 763 —
From Capt Etherington with an acct.
of our Defeat at the Carrys. place
Entd. in Vol. 8th Indn Recds. p. 36 -
INSTRUCTIONS OF VILLIERS TO INDIAN NATIONS
Contemporary Copy1
The following instructions were sent to the different Nations
of Indians by Peter Joseph Neycon De Villiere Major Com-
mand', of the Country of the Illenois dated
Fort Chartre 27lh. September 1763 —
To all my Children the Irequois, or six Nations, Abeneakees,
Shawanese, Ottawas, Chippawas, Hurons, Powtawatamies,
Kickapouts, Macoutins, Miamis, Ouyatonons, Peanguicheas, Il-
lenois, Sachias, Foxes, Folliovaines, Ozags, Kanzas, Missauris,
Panis, and to all Red Men. —
My dear Children. —
As none of you can reproach me with Lying, I promised to
communicate to you the News, and desire you to listen to my
Speech. Lo! here it is, my Dear Children. Open your Ears, that
it may penetrate even to the Bottom of your Hearts. — The
great Day is come at last, whereon it has pleased the Master of
life to inspire the great King of the French, and him of the English
to make Peace between them, Sorry to See the Blood of Men
Spilt so long. It is for this reason they have ordered all their
Chiefs, and Warriors to lay down their Arms, and me to acquaint
you of this News, doing the same as I hope. What Joy will you
have in seeing the French & English smoaking with the same
Pipe, and Eating out of the same Spoon, and finally living like
In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
820 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brethren. You will see the Roads free, the Lakes, and Rivers
unstopped; Ammunition, and Merchandize will abound in your
Villages, your Women, and Children will be Clothed as well as
you ; they will go to Dances, and Festivals, not with Cumbersome,
and heavy Cloaths, but with Shirts, Blanketts & Ribbonds.
Forget then, My Dear Children, all the evil Talks. May the
Wind carry off like Dust all those which have proceeded out of
evil Mouths. —
The Respect, and Friendship which you have always had for
the Word of Onondeijo, and for mine in particular, make me
believe you will listen to this one now. It is from a Father who
tenderly loves his Children, and who seeks nothing but their
Welfare. —
The French are free even as You. they change the Land when
the King orders it. He has not given yours; he has only Ceded
those which he had amongst you, in Order to avoid War for the
future, and that you may always enjoy Tranquility, and have
Abundance of Merchandize in your Villages. — I depend on
you that you will not make me Lie, and that your Young Men
will not quit their Rattles, and Playthings to take up the Hatchet,
but to carry it amongst Savage Nations from whom you expect no
Succour, and who live only on Earth to embroil it. Leave off
then, My Dear Children the spilling of the Blood of your Brethren
the English. Our Hearts are now but one. You cannot strike at
present the one without having the Other for an Enemy, so if you
continue Hostilities you will have no Supplies, and it is from
them, that you are to expect them. — You will be allways in
my heart, and in those of the French, who will never abandon
you. —
I bid you all Farewell, and Recommend it to you to respect
allways the French who remain amongst you. — Although I
expect to go off sometime after the Couriers which I dispatch to
you, send me your answer by them, if I do not Receive it here,
it will be at New Orleans where I will concert with the great
Chief, the means for supplying you, thus having all the other
Indian Uprising 821
side of the River Mississipi, where the French will supply the
Wants of those who will be in this Quarter. —
I Pray the Master of life to enter into your Hearts, and that
he may make you know, that in following the Advice which I
give you to make Peace with our Brethren the English, you may
never Stand in need of being pitied, and finally that the King, I
and all the French, will be glad to see you live in Peace. And for
Proof of what I tell you, I sign these Presents with my hand and
put thereto the Seal of my Arms, at Fort Chartre the 27th.
Septemr. 1 763 —
Signed
Neycon De Villiere1
VILLIERS TO INHABITANTS OF FORT CHARTRES
Contemporary Copy2
Fort Chartre at the Illenois 27th. September 1763
Gentlemen —
It is well decided that the King of France, the King of England,
& King of Spain (undoubtedly affected with the Horrors of such
a long long, and bloody War) have at length made Peace
whereof the Definitive Treaty was ratified the 4th. of last March.
It is by Virtue of a Letter with the King's Seal, that the
Governor, by his Dispatches bearing Date the 1 3th. of last July,
and which I received the 24th. Ins1, gives me Orders to deliver up
this Place to the Commissaries of his Brittanick Majesty, em-
powered by his Orders for this Purpose, and to Evacuate the
same. —
I do not enter into a Detail of this Cession: It is conformable
to the Article in the Preliminaries concerning this Quarter, and
1 Pierre Joseph Neyon de Villiers, commandant of Fort Chartres and
country of Illinois.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
822 Sir William Johnson Papers
which you have seen, which leaves the Inhabitants free and at
liberty to retire wherever it seemeth good unto them, within the
Possessions of the three Kings. He has then Ordered me to ac-
quaint all those, who are willing to with [d] raw themselves here
from, and to propose to them New Orleans, the Allements, La
Points, Coupee, Archangas, & Sl. Gannvieue, to establish them-
selves there with having assurances of all Facility in their new
Settlements. If any amongst you, Gentlemen, choose to follow
this Resolution, they are free to do it, and may assure themselves
that I will procure them every Succour that will depend on me.
It remains then, Gentlemen, that I Exhort you, agreeable to the
Kings Intentions, to put everything in Practice to Contribute to
the Peace, which I demand of the Indians, being well persuaded
that the English Gentlemen will take the most just means to ac-
complish it, in Consequence of which I have dispatched these
Couriers, and am entirely
Gentn. —
Your very humble &
most Obed1 Servant
Signed — NEYEON DE VlLLIERE
To the Inhabitants of Fort Chartre —
VILLIERS TO THE INHABITANTS OF DETROIT
Contemporary Copy1
Fort Chartres, Sepf. 27, 1763
To all the Inhabitants at Detroit —
By Peter Joseph Neyeon De Villiere Major Command' of the
Country
Monsieur Dequindre Cadet is ordered to Set out this day with
one named James La Duzette, and two Indians to go to Detroit
to carry our Dispatches thither. — He will be charged more-
In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
Indian Uprising 823
over with a Parole from us in Writing, with a flying Seal, three
Belts, and four Pipes for all the Nations. —
As the Ouaijatonans are the first that he will find, he will
cause their Chiefs to be assembled together, to whom he will
explain exactly our Parole in assuring them of Peace, in token
whereof, he will deliver up to them one Belt, and one Pipe. —
He will do the same with the Kickapouts, Maskoritins, and
Miamis, and from thence he will go to Detroit, where he will
deliver our letters to the Commandant —
If contrary to our Intention the Siege of Detroit by the Indians
should obstruct his Enterance into the Fort, he is to go to Pondiac
chief of the Ottawas, to whom he will read over our Parole, and
give it up to them, enjoining them to carry it to all the other
Nations. —
He will be on his Guard in order to avoid all Surprize from
ill conditioned Indians —
We recommend to him to make all Dispatch. We desire
therefore all them it may concern not to Retard him by any
means, but on the contrary to procure him all Succour, and
Assistance. —
Given at Fort Chartre 27th. September 1 763.
Signed NEYEON DE VlLLIERE
GEORGE CROGHAN TO AMHERST
L. S.1
Wen; York 26th. of Septemb'. 1763
May It Please Your Excellency
I must beg Leave to Lay before you the State of my Case
which Oblieges me to request your Excellencys Liberty to go
Home
In the Year 1 756 I was Appointed by Sir William Johnson
1 In New York State Library. Accompanied the following letter of
Croghan to Johnson, Sept. 28, 1 763.
824 Sir William Johnson Papers
Deputy Agent for Indian Affairs in which Department I have
since Servd. on every Campaign at a Considerable Expence never
having any Allowance made for my Extraordinary Expences
in Treating with the Indians ye. Indians which was very Con-
siderable
In the year 57 General Stanwix then Collonel of the first Bat-
talion of Royal Americans gave me a Written Order to Purchase
some Goods for the Cherokees then in Carlisle & to draw on the
Commissioners of Pensylvenia who protested the Draft on which
I was Sued & obliegd. to pay £191, which I have not been yet
Reimbursdt. & last fall I was Acquainted by Letter from Captn.
Campbell at Detroit that none of the Interpreters at the Distant
Posts Over the Lakes had been paid since they had first been
Employd. & that they their Pay Throw my hands — I then made
an Estimate of their Pay & sent it by Collonel Boquett to Lay
before your Excellency his Answer to me was that you was of
Opinion I Shoud. get the Accompts Settled & Obtain Proper
Vouchers before I applyd. for the Money which you Lookd. on
to be the Chief part of my Duty; then in Order to Comply with
your Commands I sent the Sum with an Aditional Sum of £ 1 90
to pay those at Detroit with a Trader this Spring who was going
to Trade there, Amounting in all to Twelve Hundred & Thirty
Odd pounds all which I have Lost as the poor man with his own
Effects & Life has fallen a Sacrifice to ye. Indians such Lossess as
those is more than I am at Present able to bear
But my chief Reason for requesting yr. Excellency Leave
to go Home at Present is, that in the Beginning of the War I
was Robbd. in the Indian Country, of Effects to the Amount of
Sixteen Thousand Pounds Currency by the French & their
Indians before the Declaration, having at the same time fifty two
men in my Employ taken Prisoners being Advisd. by his Ex-
cellency General Bradock with whom I servd. the Campaign 55
to apply home to his Majesty by Petition for Redress; I did & sent
home my Accompts well Attested which was well receivd. &
Approvd. on & a promise of Satisfaction being made as soon as
there was a peace; & my friends now write me that if I can get
Indian Uprising 825
Home before the Next Parliament Meet that I will Certainly
meet with Redress & have a Compensation made me for my Losses.
I hope yr. Excellency will take my Case into Consideration
& from your known Justice & Candour Permitt me to go Home
to Solicit some Restitution for those Losses which is all I have to
Depend on after the Many Losses I have Sustained & never has
had it in my Power to Attend my own Private Affairs having
never been a Month Absent from my Duty since I have been in
the Service; Shoud. yr. Excellency think that my Case Merits
your Notice & woud. Intrest yr. self in my Behalf I am sure I
shoud. meet with a Speedy & Successful Satisfaction which will
be Greatfully Acknowledge by yr. Excellencys most
Obedient Humble Servant —
[signed] G. C.
To his Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst Knight of the Bath
and Commander in Chief of all his Majestys
Forces in North America
New York
INDORSED:
Case of Mr. Croghan laid before
Sir Jeffy Amherst
FROM GEORGE CROGHAN
A. L. S.1
New York SepK 28* 1763
Hond. Sir
On My ARivel hear I Weated on Sir Jeffy. Amhirst and
Deliverd him yr. honours Letter wh. he Read after w1*. he Toek
Me Into his Room & Tould with A Dail of his flumery that I
1 In New York State Library.
826 Sir William Johnson Papers
must Nott think of quiting the Service att this Time for that he
wold as Soon give his Consent To a Battalians going home as part-
ing with Me which brought on an altercation & Warm Dispute wh.
when Ended I tuck My Leve Next Day I Wrote a Leter wh. he
answerd yesterday wh. oblidgd. Me to Write him again in wh.
I Resignd. this Morning he Sent for Me & Spoke very Mildly &
Desierd Me to Consider beter & Write your honour before I
wold go home that he was Very Sensable I wold be Much Wanted
hear Soon & that ye. kings Ministers wold think very od of My
going home Now, In answer to wh. I Tould him that I was Very
Shure I Might go Twist to England & back before his Excelency
wold be able to to Chestise ye. Westren Indians So as to Restore
Tranquilaty to his Majestys Subjects on ye. frontiers on any
Durable Foundation and that this Defection of them Nations
from his Majestys Intrest Might abeen Easeyr prevented then
they Can be Now Subjected with ye. five Trupes he had (all
which he Tuck very Casualy Much More So then I Could have
Suspected I aShure yr. honor) and that I Wold Write to you or
Wate on you before I went home that I was Shure you Could
apoint a Man wh. wold answer the Service as Well as I Could
att present and that att any Time after My Affairs was Setled
if My presents Could be of any Service in ye. Department of
Indian affairs under yr, honours Direction I Should allways be
Ready to attend tho I Never Intended to Inter into the Service
on which we parted he asked Me Several questions on the
Subjects of ye. Late Conferance & Said he hoped you wold Nott
Imploy any Indians in ye. Service against those that are our
Enemys as he was Determd. to have None of thire Services for
that he Did Nott blive there was an Indian in America to be
Depended on, to wh. I answered in his own Maner Very Smoothly
that his Judgement Might be very Just butt that I wold be very
Sorrey the Mohockes & others of ye. five Nations who had Lost
Many of thire people in his Majestys Service Dureing the Late
Warr Should know that was his opinion of them as ye. Indians
in Gineral are a Rash Inconsidratt pople for fair his Majestys
Indian Uprising 827
Subjects on ye. fronteirs of this province Might feel Effects of
thire Wrath att this Time to which he Made No answer
Mr. Leake Tells Me that he has been often Displeased to
hear ye. Langudge that is Made use of att Times att Head Quar-
ters with Regard to yr. honours Departm1. in Short the pople
who frequent there as well as Sr. J : himself Seem Nott to feel
for ye. Distress of thire felow Creturs & Talk of Nothing Butt
ye. Country of ye. Indians being Now Conquerd. & Every B — t
of p — e haveing a grant for a Large Tract of Land,
Inclosd. I Send yr. honour Copeys of the Leters that past be-
tween Sr Jefery & Me fer yr. peruseal Till I have the Honour
to Wate on you att Johnson Hall wh. I hope will be about ye.
28th. of Next Month. I promist ye. Gineral that as I was going up
to bedferd1 if any thing Extronery hapend. I wold Write him
plese to Make My Complements agreeable to Mr. Johny & Wr.
Johnson2 and all ye. famely & Bleve Me with Great Esteem &
Sincerity yr. Honours
Most obeident Humble
Servnt
Geo : Croghan
To the Honourable
Sir William Johnson Barn*.
Johnson Hall
INDORSED:
New Yorke Sept. 28* 1 763
From Mr. Croghan with other papers concern?,
his offers of Resignation
1 Bedford, Pennsylvania, where Croghan had large land holdings.
2 Probably Warren Johnson.
828 Sir William Johnson Papers
JOURNAL OF INDIAN CONGRESS
A. D.1
[Sept. 1-28, 1763]
Thursday 1 st. of 7br. — Captn. John Butler my Interpreter
returned from ye. German Flatts, & acquainted me that the 6
Nations were on their way hither, and would be here as this night,
he haveing left them yesterday at Conajohare Castle, where they
told him they would rest themselves that day, & have some talk
with the Indians. — I sent Cap1. Butler to acquaint ye. lower
Mohawks therewith & desire their attendance tomorrow. —
Friday 7br.2d. — The Oneidaes, Onondagaes, & a few Sen-
ecas arrived & encamped, after wh. they waited on Sir Wm. and
after performing the usual Ceremony on Meeting they begged
He would acquaint them with the particulars of an Action be-
tween Us & the Westeren Indians, wh. they were told by the way
hither, happened lately.
Sir Wm. ordered them a Glass of liquor, Pipes & Tobacco,
and told them that as he was verry unwell he could not say any-
thing to them until ye. next day. on wh. they broke up for that
time, and went to their Several Encampments. —
Saturday 3d. — the Conajoharees arrived, also severall of
the Cayugas, Oneidaes, & four Senecas. With the former I had a
private Meeting [relati]2 concerning their Lands in dispute wth.
Klock3 &ca. when I told them Mr. Duncan,4 Rutherford5 &cas.
proposal wh. was to release to them the Lands they lived on &
occupied, as long as they chose to remain thereon — then to revert
to them the Pattentees or their Heirs offering them a present of
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9; in Johnson's hand.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
3 George (Ury) Klock.
4 John Duncan.
5 Walter Rutherford.
Indian Uprising 829
£ 150 — I then desired [that] to know their Sentiments regard-
ing the same, that I might the better be enabled to Speak to ye.
other Party, at the same time giveing them a charge to act hon-
estly, and consided if they did otherwise it would be offensive
to their Maker
Sunday 4th. 7br. — All the Nations being Assembled in ye
Council Room, Sir Wm. began first, with condoleing the Death of
TaTvissogo a great freind of his, and one he had brought over
from ye. French Interest before he marched for Niagra, and was
verry useful to him ever since. —
3 Strings Wampum & 2 black Strouds
Then Sir Wm. appointed the Brother of the deceased to act
in his stead, and gave him a proper Instrument in Writeing for
yf. purpose. — The Nations all present returned many thanks
to Sir Wm. for what he had done, and were greatly pleased at it,
as well as at the appointment of the Brother of ye. deceased.
Gave 3 Strings of Wampum
The Six Nations then requested Sir Wm. to give them an Ace",
of the Action at the Detroit, they haves, heard on their way hither
that there was one lately between Us & the Inds. —
Sir Wm. after letting them know, that it was uncommon to
touch upon anything, before they had finished the business for
wh. they came, told them he would nevertheless indulge them
for the present, and then let them know the Affair in the most
favourable light, also acquainted them with the treachery of the
Chippawaes in takeing Michilimackinac and of the freindly
part wh. the Ottawaes acted, in retakeing our People & Effects
from ye. Chippawaes, & then escorting them to Montreal &ca. —
it being then Sun Set, the Meeting broke up for this Day. —
At Night Sir Wm. talked wth several of the Cheifs in private,
and advised them [/ion?] to act verry prudently on the present
occasion, setting to them in a clear light w*. was their Interest, to
wh. they gave great attention, and promised to use all their In-
830 Sir William Johnson Papers
fluence with those of the Senecas who were so wrong headed
as to quarrel with Us, at the Same time assured him there were
but two Villages of yl. Nation who remained obstinate, and that
in order to bring them to their Senses, they had, before they
sett of for this Meeting, sent Severall of their Cheif Warriors
to make the last tryal, and that they expected that Return before
they would be ready to leave this. —
Monday 7br. [5th.] —All the Sachims & Principal War-
riors of Onondaga came and desired a [Meeting] Conference
wth. Sir Wm. previous to ye. General Meeting [at] it being
granted, the Onondaga Speaker after repeating the many trials
made by his Nation & ye. others, to bring the Senecas to an
Acknowledgement of their error & to oblidge them to lay down
their Hatchet, Said they had [noip] at ye. late Meeting prevailed
on all of them except 2 Castles, & to them they had sent the
Cheif Warrior of the Senecas named Sayenquaraghto, (who has
ever been our freind), Kafyadora the Bunts Son, & 2 others, in
order to bring them to ye. Same way of thinking in wh. they ex-
pected they would succeed, and looked for them now everry
day — then acquainted Sir Wm. with the Several reasons given
by the Senecas for ye. part they Acted, Namely the Posts through-
out their Country, & the demolitn. of which the Ononds. disa-
proved, Scarcity of Amunition, & the Dearness of Goods &ca.
then concluded with earnestly requesting that a plentifull trade
might be allowed the Senecas, wh. they the Onondagaes said, they
were certain would restore peace, than which nothing would give
them greater Satisfaction. — .
A large white Belt —
Sir Wm. Johnsons Answer to ye. Ondagaes
Brethren of Onondaga — *
I have attended to what you said Yesterday, and taken into
serious considerate the pains which you mention to have been at
1 From this point written by another hand.
Indian Uprising 831
in Endeavoring to bring the Senecas to their Senses, for all which
I heartily thank you, but I am sorry that you have so far misspent
your time, as their behavior did not merit [so much pains] a
reconciliation between the English and them, for had they shewn
any sense they would undoubtedly have attended the Meets. I
lately held with the rest of the Nations at the German Flatts and
there had they declared their sorrow for the hostilities committed,
We then might possibly have taken them into favour on their
Sincere promises of Amendment, but as this was not the Case,
and as they have still continued to carry on the War & Exercise
the most unheard of Barbarities on our People, the General is
determined on bringing them to a just Sense of their falseness by a
severe punishment which I am heartily sorry they bring upon their
own heads, and which would never have happened had they fol-
lowed my repeated advice. — This will sufficiently shew you
the absurdity of their Expecting a Trade from the English, as we
can never give a Trade to our Enemies, which would be furnish-
ing them with the means of destroying us. They had once an
opportunity of Enjoying a Fair Trade, which the peace would
soon have rendered reasonable & advantagious to them, but they
have foolishly let it Slip out of their hands —
To You, and all the Nations who have wisely preserved the
peace & continued our Freinds [an Extensive] Trade will be kept
open so far as the same may be permitted with Safety to our-
selves, & Every other testimony shewn you of the Just Sense we
have of your behavior, and the difference we shall always make
between Freinds and Enemies —
Bretheren —
As I have received Expresses Yesterday with the particulars
of some News with which I think it necessary you shoud. all be
acquainted, I must therefore desire the Imediate attendance of
all the Nations that I may communicate the same to them —
Then parted —
832 Sir William Johnson Papers
Imediately after Two Runners arrived from the R[iver]
Susquehanna to acquaint Sr. Wm. that above 200 Indians from
them parts as far as Owegy were on their way to his House, very
much in want of provisions & would be at Cherry Valley to-
morrow —
*P. M. — The Inds. all Assembled — Present as before.
Sir William then acquainted them with what he had heard
of the Hostilities committed by some of the 6 Nats. on the Fron-
tiers of Virginia & desired to know by whom they were com-
mitted, after which he Gave them an Acclt. of Col1. Bouquets
Successful Engagem*. near Fort Pitt, and of the loss sustained
by the Indians — 2 Then Teyarvarunte Speaker of Onondaga
addressed Sir Wm. as follows —
Brother Warraghiiyagey —
In consequence of your Speech made to us lately at the German
Flatts we forthwith Sent Imediately to the Senecas to know the
cause of their behavior, & on the arrival of our Deps. in that
[iy/jen] our Warriors addressed theirs [an J] desired they woud.
[imediately] lay down the Hatchet, & bethink themselves of the
[Consequences] danger in wch [suc/i] their bad proceeds, must
involve their families [in] & not proudly continue the War, but
consider their Welfare
Then our Sachims addressed theirs desiring they wd. [consider]
think for the public good and not permit their Young Men to
prosecute hostilities, [and desired] but that they wd. [consider]
remr. the old Agreem1. whereby they were to keep peace & never
begin any disturbances, [by which conduct] whereby they might
be assured they woud, never be hurted, that therefore they shod.
talk wisely to their Warriors, & not suffer them to get drunk
& behave [so bad] as they had lately done, and [we
1 From this point the record of Indian Affairs, to September 1 2, was
extracted and printed in Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:553-59, as an
enclosure in Sir William's letter to Amherst of September 14.
2 From this point the manuscript is in Guy Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 833
the Onondas. and the Mohocks] desired they wd. mind their
proper affairs [& take care of the news] which was public busi-
ness, & prevent any bad designs [but] by observe, the Agreement
by which [i/iep] we were all bound [themselves] to shake any
Nation by the Head who behaved amiss, and that if they acted
as we desired our Children yet unborn should reap the advantages
thereof, and desired they wod. remember that this was the third
time we had Spoken to them thereon, [and] that we Expected
they wd. communicate what we had Said to all their Bretheren
to the Westward, [and] as we should Expect their imediate
Answer at Onondaga —
The Next day we met again When the Senecas acknowledged
[they] some of them had acted foolish, and did not know what
[to do] they did, but begged that we would return and En-
deavor to make up affairs with our Bretheren the English, & to
represent that the Great cause of their uneasiness was owing to
the many Forts in their Country, which if removed would make
all matters Easy — Then they returned our belts and we [took
our leave] parted —
[Next Night the Senecas called all their Warriors]
But ours & the Seneca Warriors [Then We the Onondagas
amongst ourselves] were of opinion that the Senecas Sachems
did not act right, & that they only talked, [that if they wanted
to Fight they shod. engage agl. the Western Inds. & not the Eng-
lish, and that for our parts] therefore they agreed with us that
we shod. consider our Safety and preserve peace, the Seneca
Warriors say§. that we had wise Men to Guide us, but they had
none, which was the Cause of their pres*. troubles, and Assurd. us
that they would Join themselves Once more to us, & [behave]
act peaceably, and that these their words were from their hearts.
[Then] After this a few of us were went forward to Chenussio
[iPere] where the Senecas [had] have two [parties] Castles
[These we found the hardest to deal with,] but as those who [m]
[we sent] went thither are not yet returned, we know not
834 Sir William Johnson Papers
the[zr] Success of their Negociations — and now Brother we
beg you may be assured we are unanimously determined to hold
fast by the old Agreement, & preserve peace, a necessary Step to
which we think will be Your allowing us a large and reasonable
Trade at Osrvego and the German flatts as formerly, as for our
parts we shall say nothing farther concerning the posts which
have caused so much disturbance, but we the Five Nations, the
Caghnawageys & many others in our alliance will carefully pre-
serve peace & use our daily endeavors to bring about the same
with the rest, & we desire the Gen1, may be imediately acq1,
with our resolutions, that we may have his support
a large Belt of 1 3 Rows
Brother —
We [are] now [to speak t° Vou about the] Deliver you the
Belt which we sent to Canada whereby we bound ourselves all
together in a peaceable alliance, and we are Glad the Govr. of
Montreal is so well disposed thereto —
A Belt 8 Rows
Brother —
By this String we are to acquaint that the friendly Ottarvas
near Michilimacl(inacfy [and] have brought home your Flesh
and Blood who were Prisoners in that Country, We are heartily
sorry that any of our people have been suspected for Striking the
Inhabitants, of Virginia, it is more probable the Shawanese have
done so, or if not we are sure we have no hand therein —
6 Strings
Then the Meeting broke up
Septr. 7 th. A.M. — the Caghnawagas waited on Sr. Wm.
and acquainted him that as they had unexpectedly found the 6
Nations here they Judged it necessary to have a Meeting with
them, which they would accordingly hold as this Morning —
Sir Wm. afterwards assembled all the Inds. —
Indian Uprising 835
Present as before
when he delivered them the following Answer
Bretheren of the Sev1. Nations assembled —
I have hearkened with Attention to what you said Yesterday
regarding Your proceedings with the Senecas, and shall now give
you my Sentiments thereon. Your designs in going to the Senecas in
order to bring them to their Senses was very well meant, but you
know It was your meer Motion, and not at my desire, as that
Nation had refused to attend the Meeting held lately with me at
the German flatts we had nothing else to Expect but their con-
tinuance of Hostilities, which they have really done ever Since,
and have now Parties out engaged in the same, but the indifference
with which they have received all my admonitions & your En-
deavors, is a Sufficient proof that they are [our] badly disposed,
and can only be brought to Reason by a proper punishment — It is
highly unreasonable to [think] suppose that any Nation will sit
Still, and accept of the Sorrow of [a Nation] another for the
Murders they have committed. — This would be folly in us to the
highest Degree, and what I am sure not one Nation of the Con-
federacy wd. put up with — You make War amongst yourselves
on occasions not [much more unusual] in the least comparable
to the pres1. If your Hearts be good and your old Agreements can
be [depended] relied upon, You can't but consider that every
Nation who are Enemys [&] to us, and Cov*. breakers, are [
Traitors to Yourselves, and are depriving you of Trade &
Quietness, & as such ought to be punished with your joynt assist-
ance. — but we [asf(] have not asked that of you, we only desire
you, who are our Friends, to sit Still, and observe [by our Con-
duct] that we can punish those [that] who have wanted War,
[and] as well as reward them that Maintain [ed] peace — [r»hat
Security] Can they pay us for the Blood of some hundred of their
innocent Brethren, can they make retaliation For the places
they have plundered, Burn't, and destroyed, or what Security have
we for their keeping [peace] the Cov*. half a Year, who have
836 Sir William Johnson Papers
[at one and the same] Basely & Treacherously held one Hand to
us in shew of peace, & with the other Struck an Axe into our heads
— I know you can't Expect such folly from us, and I sincerely
hope for your own sakes, you will remain quiet and observe the
Event, which behavior will not only intitle you to reward, but
prevent Your Destruction.
The General having assured me that he is determined on re-
warding & noticing every Nation that [shall prefer peace to War]
preserves the peace, and is Equally resolved to bring [every
Nation] all those who have taken up the Hatchet to an Imediate
and Severe punishment and Without which our Children's
Children can never Expect Ease, but must Spend their Time in
War, & Conferences [which I can he much better occupied in]
& lose the benefits of Hunting, and Trade, and till this punishment
be felt by our [Enemies] mutual Enemies, [so as to bring them to a
Just Sense of their folly] You cannot Expect the Trade to be so
Extensive as formerly, for wch. you must [and whom have you to]
blame [for it but the people] Your perfid. brethn. who have so
treacherously Struck us on the Head, [However, "We shall con-
sider all our Friends] and thereby [and which has so Terrified &]
Deterred our Traders [that they are afraid to] from brings, up any
more Goods. However we shall Endeavor all in our power to pre-
vail on some to continue it as formerly in some places provided you
make no bad use of [our] this indulgence [to you b].
The [seme] demand for an Extensive trade was made by the
Very Nations who have lately struck us and the largest promise
given for the safety & protection not only of the Traders but also
of the several Posts in their Country, yet the former have been
murdered [traders have had] instead of which their Goods
[have been taken from then & they have been both barbarously
murdered] & the latter surprised pillaged & destroyed. Judge
yourselves what Encouragement [that] this is for our people to
go amongst you, what Reliance we can repose on any Promises,
and you must be then of opinion that no punishment can be too
great for a People who have broken their Old Agreements [de-
Indian Uprising 837
pn'veJ] Inhumanly Butchered their Brethren, and deprived you
of the happiness, and advantages, which Peace and a plentiful
Trade could afford you. I make no Doubt, you will consider
matters, as I have justly represented them, and I am heartily glad
to hear your professions of peace, and Friendship, the observance
whereof can never be sufficiently recommended to You, as the
Means of preserving your Lives, & Properties, & securing the
Inestimable Advantages of Liberty, and Commerce, to your
Posterity
A belt
Brethren —
I return you thanks for the belt you sent to the Inds. in
Canada for the promoting of peace, and Unity which I am of
opinion that wise people will never attempt to Violate. —
A belt. —
Brethren —
It is with pleasure I find that the Ottawas near Michillimackinac
have had the prudence, and friendship to deliver up several of our
people who were prisoners [amongst them] in that Country, and
I expect that so laudable an Example will be followed by many
others. —
Brethren —
I shall not fail Laying your Speech before the General, &
recommending it to his Serious Consideration, the Event of which
is uncertain, as the Behavior of the [Senecas] Indians, has been
of such a Nature that it could in no wise be put up with, for which
Reason, [as well as to Chastise the rest of our Enemies,] Troops
have been Ordered from sev1. Quarters, v/ith Instructions to the
Comde. Officers to Act offensively, and probably by this time a
blow may some where be struck. The Honour of his Majesty, &
the Welfare of his Subjects required the Generals taking this
Measure, and the refusal of the Senecas to attend me at the Germn.
838 Sir William Johnson Papers
flatts convinced him of their intentions to persist in the War, on
which ace*. I never desired you to solicit them to peace, it was
a Step of your own, which I then told you would {you] not be
satisfactory to the English, nor Agreable to their Customs or that
of any other Nation, Therefore I cannot Say what the Gen1, will
think of your proposal, but I shall acquaint You with his Answer
whenever I receive it —
Eodm. Die — the Caghnawageys delivered the follows. Speech
to Sir William & [rest of] the 6 Nations —
Present as before
Assaragoa Speaker
[Bretheren of the 6 Nations]
Brother Warragh^ —
We [return] thank [5] [to] the Great Spirit for Emabling us to
meet this day [and We meet on ace1, of your Message from
Warraghiyagey to remain steadfast & united] which is in con-
sequence of your Message recommending peace and Quietness to
our Confederacy & that we shod. keep our Warriors in order
[and \eep our warriors in readiness without leavz. their Castles
which We] with wch. [desire he will always be assured of our
Concurrence in, & that We shall] we have [you] punctually
complyed, and you may assure yourself we shall always concurr
wth. yr. desires & hold fast by our old Agreem. & that we [shall]
have noticed what [he] you sayed to us on the reduction of
Canada when [he] you took the War Axe from us & directed us
to pursue our hunting, and not [Brethren] Brother we are afraid
that [you are about to let the Slip] thro the means of some bad
People [the] You may let Slip the Covenant Chain which we
are determined [you may] Ever to hold fast by, and therefore
[desire and] entreat you to do the same
A Belt —
Indian Uprising 839
Brethren of the 6 Nations —
I am now to speak to you, & to return thanks to the Great
Spirit for this unexpected Meeting with you at this place — We
listened with attention Yesterday to what you said to [pour] our
Brother Warraghiyagey, and we then told you we should speak
to you this day. We are [verp] sorry to find that what you then
said does not appear to us to have proceeded from your Hearts,
but from your Lips only, [and] therefore we now desire [thai]
you will pay due Regard to the old Agreement, & speak the real
Sentiments of your Hearts, and [therefore] we [norv] address
you the Sachims, and Warriors present to recollect yourselves, as
you appear to us to be drunk, we therefore expect you to be all of
one Mind, and Speak your true Sentiments to your Brother —
Brethren of the Senecas —
What are you now about? or what do you think will be the
Consequence of your letting slip the Covenant Chain? — We
desire you will Recollect yourselves, — and we now shaf^e you
by the Heads to bring you to Reason. — You are too apt to
listen to false News, and idle Stories ; but as that is no Excuse for
your breaking the Covenant Chain, we desire you will bethink
yourselves in Time, and pay no Regard to them, and that you
will seriously consider what we have said to you, and for your
Children, and Families sakes, mind our Words, otherwise you
will lose your Country, and Possessions. — Don't dispair of
the Forgiveness of the English. — You see an Instance of it in
us, who were for a Time their Enemies, and we doubt not, if
you will shew a proper Sorrow for your Behavior, you may
Obtain the same. — We therefore desire, you will hold fast
by your old agreements, and mind your Brother Warraghiyagey,
and that you will take this Belt to the Seneca Country which
is spoke on Behalf of the Sachims & Warriors of Seven Nations
who are all unanimous, and to Acquaint them, that if they will
not pay a due Regard thereto, our Nations will assuredly be
Obliged to Quarrel. — You will excuse our giving you this Belt,
840 Sir William Johnson Papers
as we knew not of your being here, which if we had, we should
have brought one larger, and fitter for the Purpose. —
A Belt. —
They then delivered Sir Wm. a Letter from Cap'. Claus at
Montreal giving the following Account1 of a Grievance the Indians
complained of concerning a Tract of Land of six Miles in Length,
and One & a half in Breadth, which is Claimed by the Jesuits,
and Adjoining the Land formerly in Dispute, and Praying
Redress thereon. —
septemr. 9th At a Meeting with all the Nations —
in the Meadow —
Present as before — Conoghquieson Addressed Sir Wm. as
follows
Brother Warraghiyagey —
We assure you that on our going to the Seneca Country, we
persuaded all of that Nation to Peace, as far as Canaderagay:
so that Castle, and Canadisagoa, are now yr. friends, and we are
to inform you that we are (Eleven Nations) of one Mind, linked
together in the Chain of Friendship, and Determined to procure
Peace, — but as to the more distant Castles of the Senecas, we
cannot at present answer for them, as our Messengers are not
Returned from thence; and as you may rely on our Resolutions,
we earnestly request you will on your Parts be as careful of
Observing the Peace, as we are. —
A Belt
Brother —
On the Declaration you made us at the German Flats of the
Generals favorable Disposition towards all those who are peace-
able and of his having no Designs against us who were Friends,
we unanimously agreed to continue so, and keep our Warriors at
Home according to the old Agreement, and we desire you will not
believe we are a proud People, inclined to quarrel; but that we
are all well disposed. — We likewise beg, that in Consequence
1 The account is omitted in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 841
of these our Resolutions, you will not break your Engagements
with us, your Friends, as we are determined never to strike first,
but only to Defend ourselves in Case of being Attacked first. —
Two Belts put together
Brother —
We request you will pay the most serious Attention to what
we shall now say in the Name of us all. — We are very sensible
of the Hostilities committed, and the Indignities offered you, which
we know must awake your Resentment, and that therefore you
will probably have Occasion to use the Road up the Country,
which was formerly considered, as the Road of Peace, therefore
knowing your Foot to be large & broad, earnestly desire you will
take care, and not touch us, your Friends, therewith in passing
the same. — We have further to Request that you will not hurt
the Party of ours which is now out against the Southern Indians,
as we are certain they will do you no Harm. —
A Belt.
[Bretheren of the Onondai. —
We attended to what you said Yesterday, and we hope it was
true, hut it appeared to us as if you only spoke for yourselves,
and therefore we desire you will answer for all together, 6r he of
one mind as we of the 7 Nations are who are one in Mind and Sen-
timent & not as Drunken people who know not what they do —
A belt1 —
2Bretheren & Friends of Coghnawagey —
I have heard with Satisfaction the Speech [which] You made
[in my presence] to the Six Nations in Genr1. & to ye. Senecas
in particular, the Manner in w*1. you expressed your disapprobation
of their conduct, [plainly] convinces me of your Sincerity and good
Sense, and in Justice to you I shall lay it before the General,
1 Words italicized and inclosed in brackets are crossed out in the
manuscript. On the margin is written: "not sent the GenL"
2 From this point the manuscript is in Johnson's hand.
842 Sir William Johnson Papers
& also Send it home, that the great King may know your good
Dispositions, & honest Intentions.
A large String of B. Wampum
Bretheren —
Your concurring with my request lately made to your Nations
by my Deputy Cap1. Claus, and your present promise of a due
observance of the Treaty of Peace & Freindship [& Alliance]
[they Were then] into which you & severall other Nations were
received on the reduction of Canada gives much pleasure. — The
Wisdom wh. yr. Sachims & Cheifs have manifested in [preserving
that Union] adhering thereto leaves me in no doubt of your
[being all heartily disposed to prevent its being violated to] holds,
the Violaters thereof in ye. greatest detestation, & of concurrs. with
us in [the punishing of them] bringing them to punishment, w*1.
I strongly recommend to You. [r Consideration]
A Belt
On the Reduction of Canada we became one People, and
Peace was established throughout the Country, Trade was begin-
ning to flourish, to our Mutual advantage, when on [all of] a
Sudden these foolish treacherous Nations [Slipt] whom we took
into the chain of freindship with You & the rest of our Brethn.
[did] without any Notice or provocation [known to us] fall upon
Traders, Butchering & captivateing them, takeing the Goods
designed for their [use] Conveniency & that of Others, [Destroy-
ing] Surpriseing by the Vilest Stratigems Destroying the Kings
Posts & Troops who were for the protection of Trade posted
in their Severall Countrys, by [their] which unwarrantable be-
haviour [of theirs] they have Sullied ye. Covenant Chain wh. we
brightened so lately, & thereby debarred ye. well disposed Indians
of the benifit of Trade, and good Offices which the English Nation
intended, and were inclined to do them. [After the reduction of
Canada & its Dependencies, I looked upon thereby on our taking
ye. into the Chain of freindship by from the French to be
an Improper & Dangerous Weapon for freinds to carry, for T»h.
reason I then pulled] At the Treaty wth. you on the Conq1. of
Indian Uprising 843
Canada I considered the Axe as a dangerous Weapon am5'.
Freinds — Such as the French — & therefore on rec§. you into
our Alliance I buried the same by pulling up a large Pine Tree
under wh. run a [strong] Stream of Water, [and] into wh. I
Cast ye. ax [therein], so as [never to be] it might no more be
found [again] . but, as the Covenant Chain wh. was then brightened
& renewed by Us is now broke by [some] these quarrelsome &
[ill minded] bad People whom we [treated & considered]
received amongst the number of freinds, I think it necessary that
You a [a Member thereof] people who held the same should be
enabled to defend Your selfish Act Agreable to yr. Engagements
in Concert wth. Your Bretheren the English agsl. [them or any who
may or have] all who have violated said Covenent. [/ shall, for
Wch. axe, after acquainting the General with TV1, passed at this
Meeting, provide] I now therefore deliver You [n>i£n] a good
English Ax made of the best Stuff, [and when it appears necessary
shall Send you Instructions in wl. manner you are to use it]
which I desire you will give to the Warriors of all yr. Nations with
directions to use the same against those Cov*. Breakers by Cutting
off the bad links which have sullied the Chain of Freindship in
wch. they will not fail being supported by their Brethn. the
Enghshl A large Belt — Black
I am glad that You were present at this Meeting with the 6
Nations, and as You have justly upbraided them for their trifleing
behaviour towards us, I am induced to expect You will never
fall into the Same, but that you will ever remain Steadfast to
your engagements, and act with openess, candor & fidelity towards
us, as You did formerly towards the French, particularly as it is
indispensably your Interest to do so, towards a People who are
become possessors of the whole Country and who are heartily
disposed to treat You with Kindness, if You remain faithfull to
them, wh. by this Belt I advise You to do.
A Belt —
1 Corrected portions in hand of Guy Johnson ; the original and crossed
out portions indicated by italics and brackets are in the hand of Sir William.
844 Sir William Johnson Papers
Bretheren —
I am heartily sorry to find that a Sett of People who pretended
solely [to] the care of your Salvation Should thirst after worldly
possessions. You found in your application concerning the former
Tract in dispute that ye. Governour of Montreal gave you imediate
redress, which you would have met with in this, but, that ye.
case is different, as these lands were given by the King of France
to the Jesuits solely, but I shall not with standing lay [your Affair]
the matter before the Persons in power who will certainly do you
all the Justice [if] which yr. case shall appear [s] to deserve [it] —
A Belt
[that there should be a trade allowed to all freindly Indians
along the River to ye. German Flatts, & at Albany & Schenectady
as long as they continue to behave as they now promise.]1
the 10th. — [When all w-] Lastly I made a Speech to them in
my own name wherein I [strongly] recommended to them, who
were now so strongly united to observe religiously the promises
now made to me, in wh. case I assured them, that should any
Nation of Inds. whatsoever form a dislike of their Union, & the
engagements now entered into with me fall upon them, or on
any of the Confederacy in the English Interest, they should
(on giveing me timely notice thereof) have my Assistance, which
they would find verry considerable.
A fine New Belt —
I then acquainted them all, that, as they had acted so freindly
& ingenious a part at this Meeting, as well as for the great pains
their Sachims & Principal Warriors have lately been at, in en-
deavouring to prevent ye. Several Nats. as yet unconcerned, [enter-
ing] engageing in ye. present unnatural War, I had now a
Small present to deliver them in his Majestys Name, which they
should have delivered to them to Morrow.
Sunday 1 1 th. — All the Nations present being assembled in
1 Words italicized and inclosed in brackets are crossed out in the
manuscript.
Indian Uprising 845
my new House,1 they Sent to Acquaint me that they had yet
something to say to me. On entering ye. Council Room, Abraham
alias Tiyerhasere Cheif of the Mohawks, takeing the Belt on wh.
I spoke to ye. Confederacy yesterday in my own name Spoke as
follows
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyagey
I am now on behalf of all the Confederacy consisting of
Eighteen Nations include. 7 in Canada to return You their most
hearty thanks for the wholesome admonitio*. You [yesterday]
gave them, and I am in their Name to Assure You that they are
determined to pay ye. greatest regard to them, were they not so
inclined, they would not have taken so much pains as they have
done, to preserve Peace in this part of the Country. I am farther
to assure You, that they will never forget, the freindly & Brother-
like offers of assistance w*1. you were yesterday pleased to make
us, well knowing that we can rely on whatever You promise. We
shall take your Belt & the good Words Spoken thereon to our
Council fire at Onondaga, and after we have acquainted all our
People therewith, Shall Send you a Belt in exchange, with our
further Sentiments. —
Heads of Sir Wm. Johnson's Speech to 6 Nations Septr. 8th
1 763.2
Then the Onondaga Speaker Stood up & takeing a verry large
Covenant Chain Belt in his hand, whereon was wrought in white
Wampum the figures of Six Men towards one End, as representing
the Six Nations, towards the other End, the figure of Nine Men to
represent the Nine Governments who Assembled at Albany in
ye. Year 1 754, the time when Said Belt was delivered to them,
between both was a Heart Signifying the Union & freindship then
Settled between them. — at the Top were the letters G R made
of White Wampum, & under that the full length of the Belt was a
white line, wh. they were told was a long board to Serve as a
1 Johnson Hall.
2 Written vertically to right of following paragraph.
846 Sir William Johnson Papers
Pillow, whereon their & our Heads were to rest, and that as the
French were a troublesome People, and had now begun to
quarrel with the English, they should [all] at a Stamp given
to Said board all wake & rise up as one Man, & attack any Nation
who disturbed their Rest. The Speaker then in behalf of the 1 8
Nations brightened & renewed the Said Covenant, then desired me
to send Said Belt to the General & Govr. & let them know So
many Nations were now firm freinds to the English, & determined
to continue so, as long as We would use them kind, & let them
live in peace. —
I then told them that I was much pleased at their keeping
in Mind so well the Engagements entered into at Said Treaty of
1 754, and after recommending to them ye. Strictest observanc
thereof, with assureances of ye. English's abideing by what they
promised, I told them I would acquaint Genrl. Amherst with the
Whole of what passed at this Meeting, & did not doubt of his
Approbation of What the Confederacy had now promised, which
as soon as I received, Should communicate to them. — then
ordered out & delivered them a pres1. of £ 1 007 —
'Sunday 11th. 1763 P M — two hundred & ten Inds. of
different Nations from the River Susquahana Arrived & en-
camped. — also the Scohare Indians —
After receiving their provisions their Sachims to the Number of
1 5 came and waited on Sir Wm. and after Salutation, acquainted
him of the Death of Kanadyorahs Mother at Oghquago, —
wh. Sir Wm. imediately condoled, so as to enable them to Speak
next day. —
3 Strings of Wampum
In the Evening the Onondaga Sachims and Cheif Warriors
came and desired a Private Meeting with Sir Wm. which being
agreed to, the Onondaga Speaker wll\ a Belt of Wampum, spoke
as follows. —
1 From this point through September 24, there is a parallel copy in
Indian Records, Vol. 6.
Indian Uprising 847
Brother Gorah Warraghiiyagey —
We of Ondaga are to acquaint You that we have a great desire
of going to England to wait upon the great King George, in
Order to have the limits of our Country Settled so as to prevent any
Quarrel between Us & our Bretheren on that Ace", as also to
make [brighter & stronger] the Cov'. Chain Stronger & brighter,
and as we would do nothing of any moment without yr. knowledge
& approbation, We now by this Belt of Wampum desire Your ad-
vice & assistance in the Affair, wl. we mean by Assistance is that
You would Send a Good Man with us, who will take care of our
People on their way to & from England, also while there to Speak
for us to the King and to tell us what he may say. —
Sir Wm. told them if they were determined upon going he would
give them all the Assistance & good advice in his power &
would also consider of a proper Person to accompany them thither,
but at ye. same time told them, that he as his Majestys Agent for
Indian Affairs in these parts, would endeavour to Serve them or
any other Nation in Alliance with his Majesty all in his power,
And save them the trouble of so long a Journey & the Government
the expence thereof. —
Monday Evening ye. 1 2th. — All the Sachims from Susqua-
hana Assembled in ye. Council Room, and Sent for Sir William.
Thomas King their Speaker Stood up & went thro ye. Ceremony of
Condolence for ye. many losses we lately Sustained, by means
of the Enemy Indians &ca. — then desired they might be made
Acquainted with what news was Stirring, which being told to
them in ye. most advantagious light, they thanked Sir Wm. for
communicateing the same to them. — then inquired of them ye.
reason of takeing up & confineing Some of the Indians near to
Harris Ferry,1 also ye. cause of our killing 2 Canoy & 1 Nanticoke
Indian near to Shamokin. being answered, the Meeting broke up
for this Day.
1 On site of present Harrisburg, Pa.
848 Sir William Johnson Papers
Tuesday 13th 7br. irThomas King Spoke to Sir Wm. In the
Medow ye. Same Indians as above —
Brother —
You Sent us a Belt Some time ago to open Ye. Road to our
Towns on ye. North branch of Susquahanna wh. was grown up
with Bushess, as you Never tuck Notice of that Road Since you
Conqured the french three years ago till Now, Some of the french
Indians begin to be Trubelsome.
Brother —
By this Belt we Return you Thanks for opening this Road to
ye. Greatt Councel Fier of ye. Six Nations and ashure you we are
yr. Steady Frends
A Belt 7 Roes
Brother —
On Receiveing yr. Belt & finding you had Cleard. our Councel
Road we CalR a Meeting of ye. Several Tribes In our Cuntry
att wh. Time we had ye. Disagreeable News of two Canoys &
1 Nanticoke being kilR on Susquehanna below Fort Agusta2 wh.
gave ye. Nanticokes & Canoys Greatt uneseyness, on wh. we of ye.
onidas & Tuskeroras & onondagas Spoke to them on Several Belts
& Lett them know that itt was agreed in former Times by our
ancesters that if any Accedents of this Nature Should hapen itt
Should be Setled In Councel, that ye. Gineral Pake [Should]
Might Nott be Disturbs for who Ever Should be two Forward in
Disturbing ye. paice wold be the Sufferrs in ye. End by v/K
Maner we have Made their Minds Easey on that Head —
A Belt 1 0 Roes
Brother —
By this Belt we Acquaint you that all the Indians on ye.
North Branch of Susquehanna from oneoughquago to owago in
1 From this point the manuscript is in George Croghan's hand and
his unusual orthography.
2 At Shamokin, later Sunbury, Pa.
Indian Uprising 849
Number Eight Towns have Agreed to Sitt Still in our Towns
and Abide by ye. old Covenant & fix our Eeys on you and as the
Six Nations had been hear we hope they have been premoteing
ye. Establishing the Good Work of paice that all our Children
May Rape ye. benefett thereof A Belt g Roeg
Brother —
By this Belt we ashure you that we Very well know that itt
is Nott agreeable to ye. Good Sperrett to Tell Leys therefore
you May Depend on itt that what we Say to you is from our
Harts ~~ . A Belt 8 Roes
Brother —
By this Belt we Aquaint you that we have Spoke to all our
Women to use thire Indeavers wth. all ye. young Men to preserve
ye. paice & keep thire Sons & Husbands att home that None of
them May Stragell towards ohio & ye. Lackes & hope they will
be able to be of Some Service that way as they have a Good
Dale to Say in our Nations A Bek ]Q Roeg
Brother —
By this Belt we Aquaint you that as itt is Likely to be Truble-
some Times we have Spoke to all the Tribes in our Cuntrey &
Insisted on them to pay No regard to any Idle Storeys they May
hear, as they formerly used to Do, Butt to Wate Till they wold
heer itt from you or ye. Six Nations A R It ft R
Brother —
the above Speechess is what past att our Meeting att Ottsinango
and agreed there to be Deliverd to you hear —
Brother —
By this Belt we Inform you that ye. Nantecokes & Canoys
tould us after what we had Said to them on ye. Lose of thire
pople that they wold be Well Satisfy^, to have itt Burreyd. by ye.
Chiefs that they might Never heer More of itt
850 Sir William Johnson Papers
Brother —
By this Belt we ashure you that we are Sincere in Every
thing we have Said to you ye. Road to onondago to onidea & heer
is ye. only Roads we Intend to Travel that to Diahoga is nott good
So that we shall Nott Listen to Any thing we heer from there
without itt be good, and we wish for no more than peace thro ye.
whole Country & that ye. Senecas may repent —
A Belt 10 Roes
to be returned to them —
aBretheren of Oghquago &ca. —
I am glad to find you are steadfast, and determined to con-
tinue freinds to the English, wh. I am certain will be for Your
Interest, I am also pleased to hear that the road which I have
opened to Your Country is agreable, & I expect it will be kept
open by You who are our freinds, & not suffer any obstructions in
it, which may hinder our makeing use of it. As that would certainly
be hurtfull to both You & Us. You are wrong, if you imagine that
we open it now on Acclt. of the vile proceedings of some foolish
Wicked Inds. who know not w'. they are about, nor their own
Good, no, we do it on Acctl. of the freindship subsisting between
Us, and the fulfilling our promises, wh. I hope You will not
for§et ~" A Belt w* I keep —
Bretheren —
the Death of any of our freind Indians always gives me
concern, but if they deserved it, as I am told these 3 who were
killed near Shamokin did, they ought not to be pittyed by You or
Us, being their own fault, if otherwise, You of the Oneidaes,
Onondagaes &ca. were right in condoleing their Death, & makeing
their freinds easy, agreable to the old Custom of yr. Forefathers,
who Judged it better to make up such Losses in that way [rather]
than let it go further, or break ye. Peace, & freindship Settled be-
tween Us. I thank You for ye. Steps you have taken in that affair
Gave a Belt —
1 From this point the manuscript is in Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 851
Brethn. —
I am Glad to hear that so many Towns of your people have
determined to abide by the old Agreement, and heartily wish they
may continue in the same Sentiment.1 [Bretheren] I am [verry]
also glad to find You are so sensible of the odiousness of lying,
Even to Mankind, & how disagreable it is to our great Creator,
from yr. knowledge of wh., and the acquaintance I have long had
with You I am lead [5 me] to beleive that what you have said, or
may say is from Your Hearts, and I assure You that what I now
say, or shall at any time hereafter Say to You, or to any of our
Bretheren, may be depended upon, as I shall never deceive any of
You, & must strongly recommend ye. Same to You all as the best
method of keeping well wth. yr. Bretheren
A Belt
2Breth*. —
The knowledge I have had of you for several Years past in-
clines me to believe you will listen to no Idle Stories; and I
hope You may always Convince me of your good Sence, in paying
no regard to any reports but what are made to you by the
English or their Friends —
A belt
Then Covered the Graves of the Nanticofyes & Canons lately
killed with 3 black Strowds —
Brethn. —
I am sorry to find any Roads which were formerly open, are
now shut by the bad behavior of Inds. who have thereupon
hindered the Well disposed from Trade. As the 6 Nats. have
promised at this Meeting to look only this way, & have no inter-
course with our Enemies, I Expect you will do the same, and
you may be assured of our Friendship, whilst You adhere to your
former & pres*. Engagements
A belt
1 This sentence interpolated in Guy Johnson's hand.
2 From this point the manuscript is in Guy Johnson's hand.
852 Sir William Johnson Papers
Septr. 1 7th. AM — The Caghnawagas being ready to depart
assembled in the Summer house in the Garden, and 10 of their
Warriors being naked, painted & feather'd, (one of whom had a
Drum on his back made of a Cag covered with Skin) marched
in Slow order in two Ranks, Singing their Song accords, to the
Ottawa Custom, Tom Wildman in the Rere Tank beating the
Drum with one Stick, and the rest accompanying it with Notched
Sticks which they Struck to good time on their Axes —
In this manner they proceeded to the House where they
entered, [& then] when Tom Wildman advanced before the
rest, & Sung his War Song, which he twice repeated, after which
Sir Wm. gave them some Liquor, Pipes, Tobacco and Paint
whereupon they returned back in the same order —
The occasion of this Ceremony was to shew Sir Wm. that they
had approved of what he said, & had taken up the Axe against
our Enemies —
At their takeing leave Sir Wm. addressed them as follows
Brethn. —
I thank you for your readiness in approving of my proposal
[and] wish you a Safe arrival at [//ieir] yr. Town & success in
yr. undertakings — I have now only to desire you will there
deliver this String to your Sachems & Chiefs & all those of the
Confederacy who are at home, and tell them that I earnestly desire
they may adhere steadfast to their Engagements, and hold fast
by the Covenant into which they have been admitted, as a proof
of which I expect they will hold all the Violators thereof in the
greatest Detestation, & use their utmost efforts to bring them to
the punishment they deserve, whereby they may be assured of the
Friendship, favour, and protection of the English to the latest
ages —
A Very long String —
1 7br. 20th. 1 763 — Thomas King & Seneca George came &
desired a private Meeting with me, at wh. Thomas King Spoke
as follows —
From this point the manuscript is in Sir Wm. Johnson's hand.
Indian Uprising 853
Brother —
we Rejoice that Everry thing relative to ye. maintaining of
peace is now so happily Settled between Us, & we hope that God
will direct us both to keep up to ye. Engagements now entered
into. —
Brother —
We now present & Adam, Jacob & a few more Sachims who
have taken & are firmly determined to take all pains possible to
keep up the friendship so long & firmly made & now renewed
& as we are no[w] resolved to lissen & obey any directions
You may think proper to Send us at any time let it be of what
nature it will. We hope that you will consider our Wants &
troubles, by letting us have some Cloathing as our Share yesterday
of ye. present come but to a trifle, we being so many in Number. —
A Belt
I thanked them for the pains they had taken in ye. present
affair, and for the promise now made of their following any direc-
tions they should receive from me — then gave them a private
present. —
D°. Die — Abraham alias Asserego with two Sons of Old
Abraham a Mohicander came & made Complaint, that the
Pattentees of the Nine Partners near to the Highlands in Dutchess
County, never paid for Said Tract, & when demanded by their
late Father was aways trifled with, & told that as ye. Partners
were liveing in different parts of the Country, they could not make
up the Money before they [could] were all together, on being
asked what consideration would satisfy them, they Sayed they
would be content with £ 1 00, altho they were sensible that
many Farms therein had been Sold for five times yl. Sum.
A Belt —
Sir Wm. told them that he had on an application formerly
made to him (by their deceased Father) wrote to Mr. John
Sacket concerning Said Land, & that Mr. Sacket, & Cap*. Isaiah
Ross who were both concerned in Sd. Pattent in their Ans. to
him denyed the Charge. However on their being verry pressing
854 Sir William Johnson Papers
Sir Wm. promised them He would write once more write to Mr.
Sacket & let them know his ultimate Answer thereto. —
He then with 2 Black Strowds covered ye. Grave of Old
Abraham their late Father, — for wh. they returned Sir Wm.
many thanks. —
In the Evening Most of ye. Susquahana Indians (after much
trouble in giveing them private presents, Orders for provs., to
Smiths, Passes &ca.) took their leave as did also the Scoharees
& Sett off for their respective Homes. —
Hendrick Wamash with abl. a Dozen of his people came to Sir
Wm. with a Complaint against Mrs. Brett1 of the Fish Kills,
Co11. Beekman, Verplank, Cortland & Phillips for that they had
not paid his Ancestors viz1, old Cap*. Nimham &ca. for a Tract of
Land near to ye. Fish Kills, and desired that Sir Wm. would grant
them a Pass to go to New York to the Govr. who they hoped &
expected would do them Justice in the Affair, as they imagined
that He must, (from his Surveying the Same) be well acquainted
with the State of the Case o Cl •
3 otnngs
2Agreable to the Ind*. Desire, Sir Wm. gave them a pass
& Letter to Ll. Govr. Colden, concerning their Complaints, on
which they took leave —
Saturday 24th. 7br. 1 763 — 3Cheif of ye. Tuscaroras Came
to my House with another Tuscarora Young Man with him, &
told me that A Cayuga Young Man who formerly lived at my
House had brought the News from Owegy of three Delawares
being killed, & three taken prisoners by the English & some Inds.
mixed with them below Shamokin. —
He then with a Belt of White Wampum Offered [his Service]
to go with his Party to War agst. those Inds. who were constantly
ab*. Fort Pitt & that Quarter if I approved of it, — then De-
livered A Belt-
1 Catherine Brett, see her letter to Johnson, August 26, 1 762. Ante
p. 493.
2 From this point the manuscript is in Guy Johnson's hand.
3 Blank in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 855
Sunday 7br. 25th. — I received the news of our People
being Defeated on the Niagra Carrying place by the Senecas. —
Monday — Met all the Mohawks at Fort Johnson when I
acquainted them of it, and Desired they would appoint two or
three of their best Men to carry a Message from me to ye.
Onondagaes
Wednesday 28th. — three Mohawks arrived here by whom I
sent ye. following Message with a Belt of Wampum.
Bretheren —
I was yesterday greatly surprised to hear from Niagra, that
the Senecas whom You the other day imagined would leave of
their Rougery, have on the 1 3th. Ins1, waylayed & attacked our
People who were escorting Provisions over ye. Carrying place
without any thought of danger from yl. Quarter, and killed a great
Number of them, Stripping them naked & Scalping & mangling
the Dead Bodys, they also destroyed the Kings Cattle & Carriages,
[as] this treacherous Villainous behaviour of their calls aloud
for ye. most severe punishment — I now Send to [asfy you what
your Sentiments are] [acquaint you] Inform You of their base
& treacherous behaviour, & desire you will consider it in ye. light
it [and desire you will declare them ingeniously to me] deserves
[and]
4 long Strings of W Wampum
Bretheren —
it behoves yr. Confederacy to resent such conduct, otherwise
your amuseing us this time past with fine promises of that Nations
reformation, must appear in a bad light to Yr. Bretheren the
English and make them imagine you were only deceiving them. I
therefore for ye. last time desire to [follows us to] know what
part you & the Warriors are resolved to Act, & insist upon your
being explicit therein —
A Belt of Black Wampum
Gave them a pass & orders for provisions along the Road. —
856 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Nerv York, 30th. September, 1763 —
Sir,
I am to Acknowledge the Favor of your Letter of the 14th.
& 16th.2 Instant, Enclosing Extracts of your Proceedings with
the Indians at the Late Conference, which I have carefully
Perused, & am now to give you my Opinion thereon. —
I must always Submit to your better Judgement with Regard
to the Treatment of Indians, But the Behavior of the Senecas
has been so glaringly Bad that I Own I should have been for
keeping any of that Nation at a Distance, & Shewing them that
We Considered them as Infamous Scoundrels whom We De-
spised: However, from what you Mention of the two Castles,
Kdnddassegy & Canadaraggo, & the Five Friendly Tribes Inter-
ceding for them, I am glad to treat them as Friends; & I Have
Wrote to Major Gladwin & the Commanding Officer at Niagara,
in any Offensive Operations that may be Carried on against the
Senecas, not to Molest the Indians of those Castles; but I have,
at the same time, Cautioned those Officers not to take any Notice
of this to the Indians in General, lest the Guilty may Immediately
take Shelter there, & by that means Evade the Punishment they
so Justly Deserve, & which I Trust, they will meet with.
The Declarations & Behavior of the Canada Indians give
me great Satisfaction; And Your Answers to them have my
thorough Approbation ; But I can by no means think of Employ-
ing them upon this Occasion : The Retaining them in our Interest
is very Necessary: Their Assistance is rather a Dangerous Ex-
pedient, & by perseverance, & Proper Measures, I have no Doubt
but We shall, by our own Strength, which is the most Natural
One, Reduce the Savages who have Commenced Hostilities, to
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38, printed except for the
final paragraph in Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:568-69.
2 In Doc. Rel. to Col. Hist. N. Y., 7:550-52. This letter dated 14th,
was completed on the 1 6th.
Indian Uprising 857
Such a Low Ebb, as will Effectually Deter them from Attempt-
ing to Disturb Us hereafter: The Lateness of the Season; the
Unfortunate Death of Captain Dalyell;1 & Some other Circum-
stances, which We Could not prevent; may perhaps put it out of
our Power of Settling Matters to our Entire Satisfaction before
the Winter Sets in, but the Punishment of the Savages, & the
Security of the Country, shall not be the less Certain; for I am
Determined to go thro' with it, in such a manner, that the whole
Race of Indians, who have any Connection with the English,
may See the folly & Madness, as well as the Ingratitude, of
Setting themselves in Opposition to a People from whom they
have Received so many Benefits, & Whose Power is Such as
Can, in a very Short time, make the Savages Feel the Utmost
Extremity of Want, & Render their pretended Importance of
very little Effect ; for I really cannot help thinking that they Owe
much of that Assumed Dignity and Consequence which they
put on, to Our Treatment of them. —
I am fully Convinced of your Exerting your utmost Endeavors
for the good of the Service, and have no Doubt but you will Pay
the Strictest Regard to the Oeconomy Recommended by the
Earl of Egremont,2 in the Letter of which I transmitted you an
Extract: The Late Defection of so many Tribes, in my opinion,
ought to Lessen the Expences in your Department : The Measures
they have Occasioned to be taken for Reducing them, will Create
a very heavy, & Unavoidable Expence to the Crown: Their
Punishment must be previous to the Treating with them ; & when
that shall happen, all they can Expect, is Forgiveness, & a Trade,
under proper Regulations, opened to them; but as to presents it
would certainly be the highest Presumption in them to Expect
any: Justice they shall have; but no more; for they can never
be Considered by Us, as a People to whom We Owe Rewards,
& it would be Madness, to the highest Degree, Ever to Bestow
1 Captain James Dalyell, of the 1st regiment, was killed July 31,1 763.
2 Charles Wyndham, second Earl of Egremont, secretary of state for
the southern department, 1761-63.
858 Sir William Johnson Papers
Favors on a Race, who have so Treacherously, & without any
provocation on our Side, Attacked our Posts, & Butchered our
Garrisons. Presents should be given only to those who Remain
our firm Friends. —
I Agree Entirely with you, that Fort Stanwix is high Enough,
at Present, to have any Trade with the Indians; for the Friendly
Tribes may very well Supply themselves there, with what is
Absolutely Necessary ; And I would have them Receive no more.
The Clamor Raised against the French is, I am persuaded,
greatly owing to a Jealousy of the Traders; However should it
appear that any of the French at the Detroit have been Tamper-
ing with the Savages, Major Gladwin has full power from me to
Send them Down to Montreal, or Punish them otherwise, as the
Nature of their Crime may Deserve. —
When the Disturbances are Quelled, & Every thing Settled
again on a proper Footing; the Ottawas & Indians Inhabiting
near Michiilimakinac & La Baye,1 may be Supplyed from Mon-
treal ; but I Trust the Precautions I have taken will put it out of
their Power of getting any at present; for they would most Cer-
tainly make a bad Use of it; And I Can Never think that One
Part of a Nation bringing in a few of our People, when the
Others are Committing Hostilities, attended with the most Shock-
ing Barbarities, should Induce Us to Load them with Presents,
which would Serve to Enable their Brethren to prolong the War,
they have so Unjustly Commenced. —
I Have Wrote to the Commanding Officer at the Mobile; to
take the Necessary precautions for preventing any Supplys of
Ammunition &ca getting to the Western Indians by the Mis-
sissippi : Indeed the Quantity they could get that way must be but
very Inconsiderable ; & would be so long of Coming that it could
not Answer their present purpose; however We cannot be too
much on our Guard to Secure Every Avenue, by which they
could get the Least Supplys. —
I Was greatly Surprised to Find Mr. Croghan Desirous of
1 Green Bay, (La Baye, Le Baye des Puans), Wisconsin.
Indian Uprising 859
going to England, at at time, when Surely his Presence is Neces-
sary in his Department, if it was Ever So: When I Told him,
that I could not Answer to the giving him Leave of Absence at
present ; he Offered to Resign, which I Likewise Disapproved of,
Altho' as he was your Deputy, I Could not Refuse him, if he
persisted in that Mind : I However Prevailed upon him to Advise
with you, before he took such a Step, which he agreed to, & He
is Set out for Bedford1 to Attend on his Duty, of which I Con-
clude he will Inform you, by Letter: He Seemed to be Disgusted,
at the Commanding Officer at Fort Pitt, having the Direction
of the Expences, which I cannot Alter, as I still think it is more
proper that, That Power, should be Lodged in a Commanding
Officer than a Deputy Agent; Nor can I See what Reason the
Latter can have to Complain on that Account; for I should
Imagine he would be Glad, to have that Authority for the Ex-
pences Incurred in his Department. —
I Have Just received Letters from Niagara, of the 1 0th. Instant ;
The Reinforcements were all gone from thence : The Sloop given
up for Lost; but they were in hopes of being Able to Build a
New One from her Timbers, &ca in three Weeks time: I Hope
they will Effect it: Captain Cochrane,2 at the Post Formed,
where the Sloop was Wrecked, had been Attacked by a party of
Indians, but they were soon Drove off: Their Loss not Known:
Captain Cochrane had three Men Killed. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca. —
Sir William Johnson Bar*.
indorsed :
To Sir Will"1: Johnson Bar*.
Johnson Hall
New York, 30,h. Septem'. 1 763.
1 On the head waters of the Juniata river, Bedford County, Pa.
2 Captain of the Sloop.
860 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Nev> York, Ist- October 1763. —
Sir,
Soon after I had Finished my Letter of Yesterday's date,
which Accompanys this, Captain Sowers2 Arrived here, & Brought
me the Disagreable Account of the Unfortunate Affair on the
Carrying Place at Niagara ; the particulars of which you no doubt
will have received, as Captain Sowers tells me he Left Letters
at Fort Stanwix to be forwarded to You. —
It is pretty Certain, I think, that the Senecas must have had a
principal Hand in this Affair: But I Trust the Other Five Na-
tions & the two Castles who gave Assurances of so much Friend-
ship at the Late Conferences, were not privy to, nor had any
Concern in the Scheme: Colonel Bouquet by his last Letter
Informs me, that an Indian Express who was Returning to the
De'troit, had come back to Fort Pitt, after having been Halfway
to Presqu'Isle,3 & Reported, that he had met with some of the
Enemy Indians, who Obliged him to Return ; But that he Learnt
from them, that a Large Body of them Intended to make an
Attempt to Cutt off our Supplys on the Carrying Place at
Niagara; It is probable the Late Mischief has been done by that
Body. —
The Loss of the Cattle & Carriages will be Soon Remedyed,
as Major Duncan4 & Ll. Colonel Campbell,5 have already for-
warded all that were at their Posts; And Colonel Bradstreet is
Sending more with all Imaginable Expedition. —
I Have no late Accounts from Fort Pitt; but as the 42d. Can-
1 In Public Record Office. W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Captain Thomas Sowers, engineer.
3 On Lake Erie on the site of the modern city of Erie, Pa.
4 Major Alexander Duncan of the 55th regiment, commandant at Fort
Ontario.
5 Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell of the 1 7th regiment at Fort
Stanwix.
Indian Uprising 861
not now Advance this Fall, Colonel Bouquet will, I Trust, not
only be able to keep that Communication Clear; but to Act in
an Offensive manner against the Indian Settlements in that
Neighborhood. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
FROM DANIEL CLAUS
Cop})1
Montreal, 1st Octob., 1763.
Hon. Sir:
I Hope mine of the 23d ultimo,2 by Capt. Brown, came safe
to Hand, since which I had a Deputation from the Missisageys
living about Toronto; their Message consisted of a large String
and a Belt of about 2000 Wampum, by the former they ex-
pressed their great Concern on ace* of the present unhappy Dis-
turbances about Detroit, &c, and that they abhorred and detested
it and therefore had since the Beginning kept out of the way in
the Environs of Cataracqui, that at the same Time they were
thereby reduced to the greatest Distress for want of their Neces-
saries being brought among them, and therefore requested &
implored the General to let ye Trader La Farge alias Tawaniawe
the Swegachie interpreter, who used to supply them heretofore
with Necessaries come to their Village this Season that they
might not be prevented from this Winters Hunt for want of
Ammunition, &c. the Belt.
Genl. Gage without Hesitation replied them that as to their
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 1 73-75 ;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Calendar, p. 181.
2 See Johnson Calendar, p. 180, under date of Sept. 24, probably the
letter here referred to, which was destroyed by fire.
862 Sir William Johnson Papers
Professions he could or would not so far doubt them, tho' he was
sure of some Canoes having been pursued by Missisagey Inds
and when over taken & found they were French were told that
they took to be English whom they lay in wait for. However be
that as it would be should not give them an answer upon their
Message, that if they wanted to exculpate themselves they must
address themselves to you as the principal Person of their Affairs
who only had the Power from the King to hear & settle such
Matters & as to sending a Person to trade among them he would
never agree to it, neither was it in his Power, and so sent them
away. They were 3 in Number and had with them a Pany1 who
deserted from hence when this Place was taken and being found
out by his Master was taken from them by him upon the Gen,s
Order and put into the Provosts. A Frenchman that came from
Niagara this Sumer informed the General that he was pursued
by sd Pany and coming up to him with his Knife in his Hand told
him that if he was an Englishman would loose his Life.
I afterward examin'd the Frenchman, whether any of these
Inds were in Company with the Pany but he was sure they were
not.
I then spoke to them in my Room, and made them as much
sensible as I could of the heinous Behaviour of those Nations
that occasioned the present Disturbances, and that they must
attribute every Inconveniecy they now labored under to them
only, and endure it till such a Time as proper Satisfaction was
given for their vile & inconsiderate Actions, etc.
I had their Arms mended for them and gave them a little
Ammunition, Tobacco & Rum and dismissed them, tho' they
expected some Cloathing, being in a Manner naked; I also
gave them a Passport to go your way in case their Nation would
send them.
I impatiently wait for the Return of the Caghnawageys as well
on account of knowing the Determination of the 6 Nations who I
hear had a numerous Congress at your House, as my Destination
for the ensuing Winter.
1 Pani, an Indian slave.
Indian Uprising 863
This goes by Majr. Abercrombie1 who I hear is to be one of
Genl. Amherst's Family.
I am, with the greatest Respect and Compliments to the Family,
Hon. Sir,
Your most dutyfull
and obedient Serv.
Dan. Claus.
To the HonbIe Sir WILLIAM JoHNSON, Bart.
I beg leave to trouble you with the enclosure.
FROM ALEXANDER DUNCAN
Copy2
Fort Ontario, 1st Octob., 1763
Sir:
A Few Days ago I was favored with your Letter of the 1 7th
ultimo and yesterday that of the 26th reached my Hands.
I have forwarded your Letter to Major Moncrieff,3 from whom
I have received a Letter dated 26th ultimo at Niagara in which
he informs, that they were then preparing to set out for Detroit,
but that they were obliged to carry the Provisions over the Portage
on Men's Shoulders and that it would be the 5th or 6th October
before they would be able to sed out. I have sent sixteen Oxen
which are with them before now, there is likewise a Reinforce-
1 Major James Abercrombie, Jr. son of General James Abercromby who
was defeated by Montcalm at Ticonderoga; captain in the 42nd High-
landers; aide-de-camp to Amherst, 1759-60; carried Amherst's conditions
in connection with the surrender of Montreal to the Marquis de Vandreuil ;
retired on half pay in 1 763 ; entered active service as Lieut. Col. of 22d
Regiment under General Gage in America in 1770; killed at the Battle
of Bunker Hill, 1 775. Father and son spelled their name differently.
2 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 171-72;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 181.
3 Capt. Thomas Moncrieffe of the 55th regiment, major of brigade.
864 Sir William Johnson Papers
ment of 260 Men that I reckon have got to Niagara this Day,
these I hope will enable Major Wilkins1 to sed out sooner and
stronger than he expected; the whole are under his Command I
imagine will exceed 600 Men, they go in Battoes & carry so
much Provisions as they can.
You will no doubt have heared that the Savages attacked the
Schooner going up the River to Detroit on the 3d ultimo, the
Master of the Vessel & one Seaman were killed & three others
wounded, but the Savages were beat off ; they had once got upon
the Bowsprit and have hacked and cut the Vessel a great dale
on the Bows & under the Sterns; there was only twelve Men on
board the Schooner at the beginning of the Affair, three of whom
were sick. The Indians acknowledge to have left eight Men &
many wounded & by some of their Canoes oversetting have lost
sixty Stand of Arms.
Several Canoes have lately arrived here from Canada with
Passports (to go to Detroit with Ammunition & Indians Goods)
from General Gage; I have taken the Passes from the Traders
& secured the Ammunition & Goods in the Fort. The People in
these Canoes inform me that several Traders have got Passports
to go up Grand Riviere and that one Canoe is gone to Toronto.
I have informed Lt. Col. Browning2 of the latter, that he may
send a Party & bring away the Traders from Toronto. Here
follows a Copy of the Preamble to one of these Passports.
"By the Honble Genl. Gage, &c, &c. Whereas Messrs. Wells3
& Wade4 have represented to me, that it is probable that the
Savages are dispersed from about Detroit, and therefore demand
Permission to send a Canoe there under such Regulations as I
shall think necessary to be given."
It is not easy to account for Mr. Gages Conduct on this Occa-
1 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander at the Niagara
Post.
2 William Browning, major of the 46th regiment; lieutenant colonel
in the French and Indian War.
3 John Welles.
4 Matthew Wade.
Indian Uprising 865
sion, but I have send Copys of all the Passports that have fallen
into my Hands to Sir Jeffrey Amherst, let those two Gentlemen
settle that Affair. Six Canoes came here five of which were loaded,
the other had put their Loading on board the Sloop at Fort
William Augustus and they have no less than 75 Barrels of Gun-
powder besides, &c.
Every thing continues quiet here.
I am, Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
Alexr Duncan
To Sir William Johnson
FROM WILLIAM EYRE
New York 3d OclK 17^3.
DR. Sir William
I had the Pleasure of Y'. Letter of the 13*. Ult: by Mr.
Gilliland.2 What I hinted to you in regard to Him, was no other,
than I Apprehend you might advise him concerning what Steps
he might take with propriety in regard to Purchasing Land, I
mean so far as was consistent with yr. Employm1. ; indeed I was
unwilling to write in any Respect Upon that Head, but he urged
me so strongly that I could not at last resist, therefore I hope you
will Excuse my doing so ; I thank you for Yr. Willingness to take
Notice of any Request of Mine; believe me, I am thoroughly
satisfied that such is Yr. Disposition towards me, or I would not
by any means take that Liberty.
We Expect Daily [now] a Packet with further Instructions,
tho' this is the common method before the Vessel Arrives, when
she Comes, the vesel is the one that is to bring ale ; & so on &ca.
1 In Detroit Public Library.
2 William Gilliland, introduced to Sir William by Col. Eyre's letter
of Sept. 2, 1763, ante. p. 810. \
866 Sir William Johnson Papers
God knows when this wish'd for one will Appear. This Slap we
have got at Niagara the 14th. Ult. is a Severe one, it distress's
us much; I wish we could once flog these Devils heartily, for I
am tir'd of the War in this Country, it Seems as a Curse entailed
upon those who is to remain in these Regions. —
I most cordially wish You every happiness you desire, and
Am most truly
Yr. Affc*. and faithful hum1 Serv«.
Will. Eyre
SR w«. Johnson B'.
My Comp,s. to
yr. family —
2
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall Octo'. 6th. 1763
Sir
I had the honour of writeing your Excellency the 30th. Ult°
and therewith transmitted my Ace", of Officers Sallarys to the
24th. of SepnV. —
This Morning a Seneca Cheif of Canadasegey the first Castle
of that Nation, and which has not been concerned in any of the
hostilities, arrived here, and gives me the following Information,
which he had from a party of Warriors Just returned wth. some
Scalps & Prisoners from the Cherokee Country Viz1. — "that
on their way home, they mett a large body of Several Nations
assembled at a Village of Delawares on ye. River Adjufyeta which
emptys into Muskingam or Elk River, where they Saw ye. Ot-
tawawa Confederacy deliver the War Hatchet, Bow & Arrows
to the Delawares and desire they would use the Same with Vigour
against the English who were about taking away their Country.
1 In Public Records Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:209-1 1 .
Indian Uprising 867
That they then pointed out the Forts Pitt & Augusta, as the
greatest Eyesores to ye. Indians in them parts, therefore desired
they would loose no time in distressing and attacking them, on
which they would all Join in a body & proceed towards Phila-
delphia, that while the Delawares were engaged in that Affair,
they, the Ottawas, Twighties, Hurons, &ca. would demolish
Detroit and Niagra. — The Delawares thanked them for look-
ing upon them now as Men, & told them they would by their
Actions shew them they were worthy of the Confidence reposed
in them. — After which the Huron Speaker addressed the Shaw-
anese, and warmly repremanded them for their backwardness in
spending their time hitherto so Idly in Treaties & conferences
with the English to prevent which they the Ottawawa Confed-
eracy plucked the Horns from their Heads (i e, removed every
thing but War from the thoughts of their Sachims) and made
them become Warriors, desireing they would exert themselves
in Conjunction with the Delawares, to which they Agreed.
This Seneca Cheif also informs me that the Chenussios &
other Senecas, of almost everry Castle {Canadassegey & Kanadar-
aggo excepted) to the amount of 309 Men were they, who cut
off our people at Niagra Carrying place, that on our Troops
giveing way, the Indians filed of to the right, Sending some of
their People in the rear of our Troops who make a great Yelping
which the English taking to be their main Body retreated towards
the Edge of the Bank, where the heavy fire of the rest who were
concealed forced them down the precipice, & thereby prevented
their making any opposition, that therefore the Indians had but
One Man wounded, & that they had taken 80 Scalps, with which
they all returned to Chenussio, and were now waiting the Arrival
of any more Troops, haveing Scouts & Spys in everry quarter
for the procureing the earliest intelligence of their Approach,
being determined in particular to obstruct the passage of the
Carrying place. —
This Seneca with whom I have been long acquainted Assured
me As I formerly observed to your Excellency that his Castle,
and that of Kanadaraggo neither approved of, or were concerned
868 Sir William Johnson Papers
in any of the Hostilities, and that they would give me from time
to time all the Intelligence they could procure. —
He likewise drew a Sketch of the present Scituation of all our
Enimies Castles in that Quarter, and gave me the Names of the
Cheifs of Each who are now concerned against Us. —
On my Application to Co11. Campbel1 for a Serjant and twelve
Men Agreable to Your Excellencys Letter He informs me, that
he is not able at present to comply therewith, Haveing but one
releif for the Necessarry Guards —
I have the Honour to be with the utmost Respect
Sir Your Excellencys
Most Obedient &
Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
P S. Just as I had finished my letter the Mohawks whom I had
dispatched to Onondaga on receiveing the Acclt. of our losses at
Niagra returned with an Answer to my Message to the following
purport — "That they had been informed of our loss at the carry-
ing place, and that they were now to acquaint me, that Two
Cayugaes Just arrived had brought them the disagreable news
of a party of 10 of that Nation who were returning from the
Cherokee Country being fallen upon at their Emcampment by
the English, who killed 2 and wounded 3 of them, that this was
what they could not have expected from their Bretheren, after
the freindly part they had acted since the commencement of
hostilities, and the Assurances they had repeatedly, & so lately
given of their freindly resolutions, that in Answer to my demand
about the Nations concerned in the late Action near Niagra,
they Say, they were of Chenussio & other Seneca Castles toward
the Ohio, and that they were informed they had killed 90 English,
1 Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell of the 1 7th regiment, stationed
at Fort Stanwix.
Indian Uprising 869
without the loss of one on their Side, as the Troops leaped down
a great precipice & many of them who stuck by the way in the
forks of Trees were there Scalped, Gave 4 Strings of Wampum,
— that as the Five Nations were to have a Meeting in a few
days, they, the Onondagaes would then lay my Belt before the
rest of the Nations, and when they had concluded on an Answer,
should make me acquainted therewith. — "
The Mohawk Messingers then informed me "that the Indians
from many Quarters, Cheifly Senecas & Delawares were now daily
marching to Kaghraandota on the Susquahana, a place appointed
for their Rendzevous, that when all assembled, their Leader
Quaghquoandax would then agree to fall on one of the following
places, namely Shamokin, Esopus, or Cherry Valley, and the
Mohawk River from Schenectady upwards and the Mohawks
declared they were of opinion that in case any considerable Body
of English was now to march against the Indians, the greatest
part of the Five Nations would Join our Troops, but feared that
unless some such Step was soon taken, many of the 5 Nations
would be awed by the rest into a Compliance with their measures,
they added that they had heard that a Cheif who resides near
Cadaraghqui has procured a party of Mississageys &ca. to Stop
the Communication of the River S*. Laurence, and obstruct the
passage of any Troops or Provisions from Canada" — I must
beg leave humbly to be of opinion that the many little Successes
which our Enemies have met with, & wh. consequently have
strengthen'd their Alliance will enable them to influence the rest
from the principles of fear, unless some measures are imediately
taken for checking the Enemy, and supporting the Frontiers with
a proper Force, which may encourage the freindly Indians to a
perseverance in their Attachment to us, when they find themselves
properly supported, I am confident they will not desert us, but
otherwise, as they lye open to our Enemies, they will be unable
870 Sir William Johnson Papers
to refuse them Assistance, in which case I plainly foresee the
destruction of these Frontiers, & the large Settlements of Scohare
&ca.
W.J.
INDORSED:
Sir William Johnson
Johnson Hall, 6th. Oct'. 1763.
Recd 15th. Ditto —
FROM ROBERT ROGERS
Copy1
Detroit, October 7th, 1763.
Sir:
Major Gladwin has told me that he will enclose you all the
Proceedings at this Place since the Date of my last Letter, as
also every particular Account concerning the Indian War, the
first beginning, &c.
For these Reasons and as I think it would come more correct
from him than from me, I defer mentioning any other Particulars
relative to our Condition at this Place.
McCormick will deliver you this Letter, he has a Bill on Col.
Croghan. I should be obliged to you if you would gett him the
Money, for it would serve me greatly to make my Payments
speedily.
Aaron the Mohawk Indian came into the Fort this Day,
Daniel and Jacob is also in this Garrison but I have not any
Intelligence from them but what Major Gladwin will communi-
cate, tho' I soon shall & some that they tell me & no man shall
at this Place know but myself, but you shall have it in full from
me, and one of the Indians you sent up will convey the said Ac-
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 176-77;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 182.
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Indian Uprising 871
count, the other four is now in Sandusky where there is a grand
Council, but will return in a day or two; the Schooner sails di-
rectly, therefore I can not send to you their private Information,
but surely will do it by themselves the first Opportunity.
There is about one thousand Indians in this Settlement at
present waiting for some Troops that is coming up; I wish they
may not get a Flogging.
I beg you'll be so kind as to inform Mrs. Rogers if there is
any likelyhood of my coming down this Fall, for my Part I know
nothing of the Disposition for this Place at present, neither does
Major Gladwin.
I am Sir, Your most Obed1.
Humble Servant
Robt Rogers
To Sir William Johnson
FROM ROBERT ROGERS
Cop})1
Detroit, October 7th, 1763.
Sir:
Since I wrote my Letter, Aaron the Mohawk has come in and
tells me that he was in the Council yesterday and that all the
Nations here he says the Indian War begun through the Five
Nations and that since the Belt came here that Aaron says he
told you was brought by one Indian last Fall, that a second Belt
came last March and told the Indians to begin, and with that a
Tomahawk was delivered and the Indians that brought this Belt
from the Five Nations told and assur'd the Indians that they
would begin at the Time the Corn was planted. The five Nations
was to strike from Niagara to Schenectady and the Taways and
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 177-78;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 182.
872 Sir William Johnson Papers
other Nations to take the upper Posts on the Lakes, that the
Senecas and Cahugees were the People that sent this Message
and further told them that they would meet them at the Windotes
town early this Spring.
Aaron tells me that the Hurons were obliged to strike the
English as they were threatened by the Toways and other Na-
tions and that the Toways now tells the Hurons if they attempt
to make Peace without their Consent or Advice they will directly
destroy them, and that if they attempt to come to the Fort they
will be considered by them as Englishmen.
Aaron says that they have seen our Troops that are coming
from Niagara at the Long Point on the north Shore, and that
all the Savages here are determined to attack them at Point a Plee.
Aaron says he will let you know further soon and what he has
told you now you may depend upon is true, that the Hurons desire
that you may know that the Taways and other Nations on the
Lake are now their Masters, their Numbers being so small they
can't help themselves, they are going to the Huron River about
thirty Miles from this Fort, where they intend to winter, and the
Taways are resolv'd to winter at Miame River, the other four
Indians that came up with Aaron are gone to Sandusky.
I am, Sir,
Your most humble Servant,
Robert Rogers
indorsed:
Wrote to Jn Glen, Esqr. for 1 5 Barrells Pork & Flour
in Proportion, 5 to be sent to Cherry Valley, 5 to
Conradt Franks, 5 to Caghnawagey.
MEMORANDUM.
10 Pr Strouds, 6 do. Aurora, 6 do. Blankets, 540 Shirts; 12
ps Stocking Stuff, 108 lb. Vermillion, 719 lb. Verdigrease, 100
Pipe watches, 8 Groce of Knives, 20 Yds Ribbon, 6 ps Silk
handerchiefs, 1 1 groce Rings, 1 0 lbs Beeds.
Indian Uprising 873
FROM HENRY GLADWIN
Detroit October 7, 1763
Dear Sir
What with business, vexation, and disappointment, I have
scarce had time to think of any friend, much less to write them,
therefore I hope you will excuse my silence. I came hither much
againest my will foreseeing what would happen; I am brought
into a scrape, and left in it; things are expected of me that cant
be performed ; I could wish I had quitted the service seven years
ago, and that somebody else commanded here. I shall say nothing
in regard to our affairs, as you will hear enough of it below, but
I inclose you some papers concerning the scoundrel inhabitants
of Detroit, and the destruction of the outposts, which perhaps
may amuse you for half an hour.
Daniel delivered me your letter to Captain Dalyell, which I
took the liberty to open knowing it concerned the service; I find
the Indians to be very faithful, and ready to do any thing they
are desired ; the f rench attempted to blacken them by insinuating
that they betrayed the vessel, but I since find that two scoundrel
french-men that went on board to sell greens, set the Indians upon
the attempt —
I hope I shall have the pleasure of seeing you soon, either here,
or below, but I would chuse the latter, I am with the greatest
esteem i c-
dear oir
Your most
humble Servant
2 Henry Gladwin
indorsed:2
Detroit 8^. 7*. 1 763
Major Gladwins letter
with Sundry Extracts
from letters &ca. —
1 In Detroit Public Library.
2 In Johnson's hand.
874 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Spring Hill Oct 8ih 1763.
Sir
I have your favor of the 20th of last Month2 by the Indian
Hendericlt Wamash who says that several people at Fishkill and
Poughkepsey owe him for some peices of Land in several places.
I told him that near 40 years since the Indians of Fishkill and
Wappingers were heard by Governor Burnet on a like complaint
at the House of Mr Haskol near the place since called New
Windsor, that then every thing was settled to the content of
Nimham the Grand father of this Man & of the other Indians
to which this Man had nothing to reply, but owned that he was
then a boy and present at the Meeting.
I told him that I could do nothing without hearing the Parties
concerned for the doing of which he said he could not stay, and
therefore I advised them to lay before you what they have to say
upon that head & on your writing to me I would call the parties
concerned before me if there appear any just reason to you for
believing there is any thing still due to these People, & shall if
the Council agree to it summon the Persons indebted to the Indians
to appear before the Council.
But I must desire you not to send the Indians to me without
necessity, because it occasions an expense to me, for which I have
no allowance.
I gave directions to Mr Banyar to make out the Commission
for Mr. Johnson3 as you desired. Why he has not don it I know
not. As to the Blank Commissions4 he told me it had allways
been refused by former Governors as there can be no necessity
1 Printed in Collections of New York Historical Society, 1876, Colden
Papers, pp. 247-48.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:205-6.
3 Guy Johnson, commissioned captain and adjutant of the regiment of
Albany Militia.
4 Commissions for officers in the militia.
Indian Uprising 875
of doing it. As soon as you shall send me the Names the Com-
missions shall be made out.
You may assure yourself that no man can be more desirous to
comply with your desire than Sir Yr &c
I have been told that Margery West says that one of the
Indians now here carried her away Prisoner from near Minisink
last War.
TO WILLIAM EYRE
CopX)1
Johnson Hall, Octbr. 1 3th, 1763.
Dear Sir:
I Am to thank you for your Favor of the 3d Inst.,2 altho' the
Want of the Packet, as you observed, must prevent your having
any material News. I most heartily wish whenever it arrives it
may bring the News of their being perfectly acquainted in Eng-
land with the Commencement of our Indian War, as without that
they will be unable to take any proper Measures & the first News
which was sent Home in June possibly did not appear very
interesting.
About 2 Days ago I had an Account that a considerable Body
of Indians are assembling at the Susquehana with Design to
destroy this Country from Schenectady upwards, or else to fall
upon Esopus or Shamokin, &c. Both the former I look upon to
be in their Power & therefore believe it is probable they will put
one of them in Execution; for my part I can not see what will
prevent their Success as you know the Nature of the Country
People sufficiently to suppose they can not be kept in a Body
for any Time, but must follow their several Occupations, so that
I have only to rely on the Hopes of some previous Intelligence
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 1 79-80 ;
draft in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 1 83.
2 Ante p. 865.
876 Sir William Johnson Papers
& upon the present favorable Disposition of all the Nations (ex-
cept Senecas) many of whom are ready and desirous to join our
Troops, but how long they may continue in this Disposition is
uncertain, as the great Success of our Enemys & the small Op-
position they have hitherto met with renders our Friends verry
apprehensive of their Resentment from their daily threats and may
occasion their Defect11, especially as we are not able to give any
necessary Succour which might enable them to withstand our
Enemins.1 I have from several Hands the Particulars of our
unlucky Affair at Niagara by which it appears that our Troops
were attacked in such a disadvantagious Situation that they were
hurried down the steep Cliffs near La Platon unable to make any
Resistance & most of them perished, many of them were found
sticking in the Forks of Trees; the Senecas of Cheneseo (who
were the Principals in this Affair) have not brought in any
Scalps, with only one Man wounded on their Side. This is par-
ticularly unlucky at this Time, and I fear will be followed by
more such blows if the greatest Care is not taken.
I shall expect when any thing occurs that you will let me have
the Pleasure of hearing from you, as
I am,
with Sincerity, &c
Col. Eyre
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
A. L. S.2
Johnson Hall Octo'. 13* 1763
Sir
I was Yesterday honoured with Your Excellencys letters of
the 30th. Ult°. and first of this Ins1.,3 and must return my sincere
1 So printed ; enemies is meant.
2 In Public Record office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
3 Ante pp. 856, 860.
Indian Uprising 877
thanks for your approbation of what I said to the CoghnaTvageys
&ca. —
Your Excellencys favourable opinion of my Judgement in
Indian Affairs, as it claims my Acknowledgements, so it represents
it as a Duty incumbent on me under the Sanction of your kind
Sentiments to offer wth. the greatest deference to your Judgment, &
friendship for Your self, the Several Causes which induce me
to be of the opinion concerning Indian Affairs which I have so
often expressed to Your Excellency. —
As no two People ever think perhaps perfectly alike so differ-
ence of employment must certainly occasion different Ideas of one
and the same thing, and altho what is advanced in support of
either may appear verry probable, yet to reconcile a difference
of Sentiments it is necessary to assign the reasons which may be
in support thereof, for this permission I must beg Your Excellencys
indulgence, and that You will beleive they are offered with the
utmost respect and Sincerity.
In order to set the consequence of the Indians in it's proper
light, it is necessary to consider what they have atchived and
what they are still able to do, and from these and other con-
siderations to fall upon a method for rendering them of as little
consequence as possible. —
With regard to the first, Your Excellency must well know
from the Acctts. of the most impartial Writers that the Five
Nations alone towards the end of the last Century, altho engaged
in several hot Wars wth. numerous Nations consisting of Several
thousand fighting Men, supported by the French, not only re-
duced these Nations to a State of Dependance but defeated
Armies five times their Number of French, and would have en-
tirely reduced that Colony had they pushed their Successes, &
met with proper encouragement from us, but in this we failed
them, for which we universally blame the Managers in those
times, who thereby first sowed the seeds of that defection dislike
& contempt which they had but too much reason to entertain of
our Abilities so different from those of the enterprising French
who wisely took advantage of our false Oeconomy, and by their
878 Sir William Johnson Papers
assistance alone supported themselves under many difficulties,
until the return of so many Indians of different Nations to their
antient Allies the English left the French no farther resource and
they fell under our Dominion, for I am firmly of opinion that had
there not been the greatest pains taken to prevail on some to act,
some to a Neutrality, and to divide others in their Councils, so
that ye. Enemys whole force of Indians has not been more at any
time (at Fort William Hennery excepted) than I had in 1 759.
I say without these measures, & without derogateing in the least
from the known bravery of our Troops, we might not as yet be in
possession of their Country, of this I am so confident, that I flatter
myself that I could in a short conference render the same clear
to your Excellency, altho to remove objections and confirm the
Assertion cannot be expected from the bounds or nature of a
Letter. —
The Five Nations altho since the War already mentioned in the
last Century have received the Addition of the Tuscaroras a
Small Nation & Others, Yet are they vastly inferior in Number
to what they were 50 Years ago, the Mohawks in particular hav-
ing lost Numbers at different times from their faithfull Attach-
ment, & Service done for Us, all which can be sufficiently made
appear. The Seneca's tho Originally amongst our best Freinds,
have realy had at different times as Sufficient causes for falling
from Us, as Many People in Europe had to Quarrel with an-
other, this can likewise be made appear, and all of them but the
two nighest Castles are now our Enemies, the Senecas in all their
different Castles whereof they have near twenty, will make
about 1000 Fighting Men (they had but 500 to defeat Mr.
Denonville1 with 1 500 Regulars & Canadians, and near as many
Indians, who alone saved them from total destruction in his Ex-
pedition) the rest of the Six Nations will make ab*. 1200 Men
in the Whole, that is in all their Cheif Castles, & the Emigrants
from them, who are dispersed about in their Neighbourhood.
1 Jacques Rene de Brisay, Marquis de Denonville (Des Noville),
governor of Canada. He made an attack upon the Senecas in July 1687.
See his account in Doc. Hist. N. Y., 1 :237.
Indian Uprising 879
None of their Castles lye open to Surprise, & Should a large body
of Men reach one of them, they will most probably find it aban-
doned, & can only burn a few bark Hutts of small consequence
to the Indians, who are everry where at home, a Small party I
fear can never effect any thing. I hope we may never have occasion
to experience this in any attempt on the Nations yet our Freinds,
but I know them so well that I am satisfied they are a People who
must be employed on one side or the other, and should they not
be thought worth our acceptance, their resentment at what they
will call a contempt, added to the power and ability of their
numerous Neighbours, our Enemies may engage them to take
on with them, this I shall endeavour to Avert, but should it happen,
beleive me, Sir, nothing that I can at present See, can prevent
the destruction of all these Frontiers, & perhaps many places
down the Country might share the same fate, which would be
a loss much greater to the public than the expence of conciliateing
the affections of all the Northeren Indians would amount to,
besides that the communication this way, would then be am-
buscaded even from Albany in such a Manner as would require
us an Army to open, and even they exposed to hourly insults
and losses, and destitute of that refreshment, and other Assistance
which the Country now affords, this would be a considerable
Expence and added to the losses sustained in the Settlements
(without reckoning the many lives lost on the occasion) will
amount to such a Sum as will certainly engage Your Excellencys
most serious Attention.
I am not easily to be intimidated, neither would any considera-
tion induce me to represent this State, but from a thorough Con-
viction: I flatter myself should this happen, I should be able to
acquit myself to the public Satisfaction in my Duty as Co11, of
ye. Militia of this County, as well as in that Commission1 with
wh. his Majesty has honoured me, and I should be happy to be
convinced my Suppositions were groundless, but as I know the
1 Johnson was commissioned Superintendent of Indian Affairs by
King George III, March 11, 1 761 .
880 Sir William Johnson Papers
nature of the Country People and the abilities of the Indians, I
have little reason to expect any other result from the defection
of the latter, than I have already represented.
To prevent this from taking place, I flatter myself your Excellcy.
will be of opinion our Freindship & Benevolence cannot be idly
disposed of, and I apprehend that should Peace be made to
morrow wth. our Enimies, we shall not be able to keep it two
Years without the like proceedings, as we cannot encrease our
Frontiers, enjoy our Out Posts, or carry on Trade on any other
Terms, until we thereby effect an establishment throughout the
Country, as may in a great measure support itself, and induce
them to be cautious of quarrelling with us, and, if these advantages
can be effected on cheaper terms, (and not less honourable)
than that arising from a War, & without the loss of Men so
severely felt by a Young Country, I flatter myself it will be
judged the best Oeconomy. —
I must own it may appear to many People as a disagreable
circumstance, to purchase their favour, but what can we do?
Can we destroy them all? this certainly none will suppose; we
may indeed after much expence and loss drive those who are
nearest to take Shelter with the Westeren & Northeren Indians,
which will but encrease their power & hatred, and which our
Colonies will frequently feel the effects of, a verry few Years
will make them forget all Misrepresentations of us, and remove
all Jealousies, or other causes of dislike, if such measures are
pursued as may make our favours appear rather the effect of
generosity, than Interest, whilst they will contribute to the latter
in the strongest & most effectual Manner.
At the same time the punishing these our Enimies who have
committed hostilities, as it will give them a proper Idea of our
power, so it cannot be too much attended to, whilst on the other
hand, our Shewing favour & Esteem to those who persevere in
their fidelity, will inspire them with a just idea of the English,
and prove an Advantage to the public ; I have always endeavoured
to fill their minds with these Sentiments, by a freindly & uniform
behaviour, & by recounting Your Excellencys Good opinion of
Indian Uprising 881
those who shall deserve it, but without giveing them much con-
sequence with us, for wl. ever Opinion the result of experience
afforded me of their abilities, I took care on everry occasion to
keep from their knowledge, altho they are not ignorant of the
advantage they are to us, even as a neutral Frontier. — I should
by no means have taken up so much of Your Excellencys leisure
with this detail of my Sentiments but that I think You have a
right to demand them, and that I should be wanting in duty, if
I failed painting our affairs with the Indians in the light they ap-
pear to me, relying on your own candor for the freedom I have
made use of, and on the favourable reception with which you have
honoured all my former representations. —
Most of the Officers who commanded on the Frontiers as well
as other persons of good credit have acquainted me with the
behaviour of the French, and the Steps taken by them to promote
the defection of the Indians, I am induced to think that however
distant or uncertain their prospects of advantage may be, they
are so bigotted to Religion & their Country as to be verry in-
strumental in the present hostilities. —
I beleive many Castles about Michilimackinac & La Bay1
as well as in other places are still well disposed in their inclinations
(without which they would never have brought down the Prison-
ers goods &ca. on an uncertain expectation of reward) but scitu-
ated as they are amongst a People who are our Enemies, they
are unable to give us any other proof than they have done of
their attachment to us. —
Your Excellencys orders for preventing Supplys by the Mis-
sissippi are certainly verry necessary, however I apprehend the
French may Supply them without our knowledge by the Illinois,
Ouisconsin River, as well as by the Wabache which we cannot
as yet prevent, neither will the Indians as I formerly observed
regard a much greater distance and I should not be surprised
that the Frigates & other Vessells who come to New Orleans should
have plenty of Stores for that purpose, to which the French will
1 Green Bay (La Baye, La Baye des Puans), Wisconsin.
882 Sir William Johnson Papers
undoubtedly be encouraged from the great profit of the now Sole
Indian Trade, & the distant prospects of some advantages result-
ing from the distress of our Colonies. —
Mr. Croghan has informed me by letter that yr. Excellency did
not approve of his going to England, upon which he laid before
You his case, and You then directed him to write to me before
he pursued his intentions, he adds that he was Just going to
Bedford, but would soon return, so that I am at a loss whether
he has yet obtained yr. Excellencys permission or not. I should
be verry unwilling at any time to loose any of my Department,
but the great urgency & consequence of his own affairs as repre-
sented to me, and the Hostile behaviour of the Inds. about Ohio
rendering any Treatment with them at present improper, occa-
sioned my referring him for an Answer to Your Excellency. — I
hope the Troops who left Niagara on the 10th. Ult°. may be
able to effect something which will strike some Awe into our
Enemies, as well as that the Vessel now building may be finished
within Sufficient time, least the Enemy might have a better oper-
tunity of burning it on the Stocks. —
My Acclt. of Disbursements for the Indn. Service Accom-
panys this, and if found without Error, I shall be glad Your
Excellency will order me a Warrant for the amount. —
I have the honour to be with ye. Utmost respect
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Execellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
indorsed :
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
Johnson Hall 13*. Oct'. 1763.
Reed. 27*. Ditto.—
Ansd. 29*. Ditto. —
Indian Uprising 883
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 16lh. October, 1763 —
Sir,
A Few days ago I was Favored with your Letter of the 30th.
September,2 & Last Night I received that of the 6th. Instant,3
Containing some particulars which, in the present Situation of
Affairs, give me a good deal of Uneasiness; for I can see no
way Left for the Defence of the Inhabited Frontiers during the
Winter, but by the Militia Exerting a proper Spirit, & Defending
their Lives & propertys as they ought : I Have Wrote accordingly
to the Governors of New Jersey & Pennsylvania; & I have
likewise Acquainted the L*. Governor of this Province of the
Designs of the Savages on Esopus &ca. —
A Body of Troops, to proceed in Conjunction with the Friendly
Indians as you propose, Cannot be procured at this Season; for
you know I have not a Man but what I have already pushed
forwards to Niagara &ca ; But, I Trust We shall be able Early in
the Spring to put in Execution a proper Plan for Reducing &
Punishing the Barbarians as they Deserve; And in the mean
time, I should hope the Five Friendly Tribes would, by your
persuasion, keep Every thing Quiet in their own Country, & Even
Joyn with any party of Militia that may be Raised for the
Immediate Defence of the Frontier Settlements. —
I Enclose you a Warrant for the Pay of the Officers in your
Department, agreable to the Abstract you transmitted to me;
and I shall add Nothing more at present, as I have some thoughts
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:209-11.
3 Ante p. 866.
884 Sir William Johnson Papers
of taking a Trip to Albany ; And very probably I may have the
pleasure of Seeing you, before this can Reach your Hands. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir Wm. Johnson, Bar1.
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Cop})1
Niagara, October 1 7th, 1763.
Sir:
I have acquainted you of the sad Usage of the Savages to the
Detachment of our forces that turned out at lower Landing
sometime past, where the Officers and Men were almost totally de-
stroyed by them together with the King's working Cattle. Our
Endeavor since in transporting Provisions to little Niagara, in-
tended for Detroit, has been safely hurried on without their offering
to disturb the Troops, but a few Days ago they killed a Man on the
Race that dropped behind and scalped him. There are four
Men more of the Flankers missed, all this without the Noise of a
Gun. The Man that was scalped was between Starlings House and
the Fort. They gave one fire at the Troops, Fort, or in the Air,
uncertain, none being hurt or any Damage done. I have no more
to acquaint you of but conclude Sir,
Your most Ob1 Servf
De Couagne
I forgot there were some Cattle sent here from Ontario2 since
which we had up at Work and now they are all taken, stole by the
Savages or straying in the Woods.
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 8 1 n ; original
in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson Calendar,
p. 183.
2 Fort Ontario on present site of Oswego, N. Y.
Indian Uprising 885
FROM WILLIAM GILLILAND
Copy1
New York 18th. October 1763 —
Sir
I am now to acknowledge, with gratitude & thankfullness,
the kind treatment you gave me at Johnston Hall, & the friendly
hints and advices you were so good as to favour me with respecting
Land matters. Be assured, Sir, that I Retain a thorough sense
of the obligations your friendly Deportment toward me, must
necessarly Lay me under to you, & that nothing cou'd make me
more happy than the power of rendering you acceptable Service.
I am encourag'd by the Governor of New Hampshire to take
up Lands in that province, & have obtained his Warrant to Search
for & Survey them when found; he Claims all the Lands on the
East Coast of Lake Champlain, & General Amherst telling
me he has no objection to my making Settlements on Either side
of that Lake, I have sent a person up that way to find out a tract
that will suit us.
I pursue this plan with the more Satisfaction that you seem'd
of oppinion there was no danger of offending the Indians by
settling Lands on that Quarter, & that you thought they wou'd
be Easily Satisfyed.
There are some tracts of good Lands on the West Coast of
Champlain, but I am at a Loss where to apply for a Grant of those,
pray do you think they Lye in this government?
I fear I Engrose too much of your time by spining out my
Letter. Let me then End it, by Introducing the bearer Mr. Cramp
to your Notice; his family, with Seven or Eight Servants, Lately
arrived here from Corke; well Recommended by the first House
in that City, to several respectable ones here ; he means to Settle in
this Country, and goes to Johnson-Hall to offer himself as your
Tennant, as such I doubt not you will both have much Satisfaction.
1 From a copy made before the fire of 1911; original in New York
State Library destroyed by fire. See Johnson Calendar, p. 1 83.
886 Sir William Johnson Papers
I Beg my aff*. Compts. to my friends at the Fort, & to Mr.
Marsh,1 & that you will believe I am
With the most perfect Esteem & regard
Sir
Your greatly Oblidg'd
& most Obed1. Serv1.
T- a \vr t WM. GlLLILAND
To Sir William Johnson
INDORSED:
Octob'. 18»h. 1763
Mr. Wm. Gillilands letter
reed. ye. Hth. 0f Novbr. 1763
$ M'. Cramp —
FROM DAVID VAN DER HEYDEN
Copf
Albany the 19th October, 1763, a 8 AM
Sir:
I Am this Moment inform'd by Robert Lansingh, who came last
Night from the Groote ImboglZ that one Dirk Ehl at that Place
had ree'd a Letter from a Kinsman, living somewhere on Delaware
River, informing him that about 60 Families were destroy'd
thereabout.
I fear that the Indians that have now been to N. York with
Sam1 Pruyn are Spy's, tho' they behaved very complisant & civil
to me & my House: my Negro Wench tells me this Morning,
that the youngest of them, who talks the best English, had told her
Husband, Capt. Stephn Schuyler's Negro, that the Indians were
1 Witham Marsh, Secretary for Indian Affairs.
2 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 1 82^83 ;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 1 84.
3 The Groote Imbogt (or Great Bend) was on the Hudson river, just
below the Mouth of the Catskill creek, on the west side. (Hough's
note.) Italics as printed.
Indian Uprising 887
all join'd, & that they did not fear the great Guns but enjon'd
him to keep it Secret as the Negros would be in no Danger. And
by some Traders I am inform'd he is the same that caused a
Disturbance at Oswego & Niagara last Spring a Year.
I communicate these out of Zeal for the Service and am with
unfeign'd Regard, 0. u .
oir, your Honor s
most obedient humble Servant
David Van Der Heyden1
To the Honble SlR WlLLIAM JOHNSON, Bt.
at Johnson Hall
FROM JOHANNES HARDENBERGH
Copy2
Kingston. Oct. 19th. 1763
Sir,
Your favor of the 13th inst. I have received wherein you give
me to understand of a considerable body of Indians assembling on
the Susquehana River with a design to fall upon the settlement of
Esopus or some part of your county — I shall do Every thing
that lays in my power in order to frustrate their pernicious under-
taking. There is a considerable number of Indians residing amongst
us who goes by the name of the Esopus Indians who some years
ago was invited by deputies sent by the Mohawk Nation to come
& make their place of inheritance among them — The greatest
part of them that is living returned this summer & insists of having
the ancient covenants renewed which was made by their ancestors
& Gov. Nichols — I have with some other gentlemen of the county
wrote to His Honor the Ll. Gov. & acquainted him of their desire
but have rec'd no answer as yet. I should be very glad to know
what your Honor thought would be best to do in regard to
those Indians — It appears to me by their behavior that they
are both honest & loyal & that it would be best to hold a
1 A merchant at Albany, lieutenant colonel in Albany county militia.
2 In Massachusetts Historical Society, Francis Parkman Collection.
888 Sir William Johnson Papers
conference with them — but that cannot be done without some
expense as y'r Honor well knows
which is from your sincere friend
Johannes Hardenbergh —
To the Hon. Sir William Johnson
at Johnson Hall,
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy1
Thursday 20th. October 16 miles below Albany [1763]
Copy
Sir
I enclose you a duplicate of my Letter of the J 6th.2 as this
will reach you before the Original can arrive at your hands.
Lieut : Governour Colden came to New York the same day, had
summoned a Council and promised me all necessary orders
should be sent to the Officers of the Militia, the wind being fair
I sat out for Albany where my stay can be but very short, as I
must necessarily be back at New York as soon as possible, but
I should be extreamly glad, that your business would permit you
to come to Albany, that I may concert with you the best measures
to be taken relative to the Indian Affairs, and to assure you in
Person that I am with great Regard &ca
Sir William Johnson Bar1.
FROM JACOBUS VAN SLYCK
L.S.3
Schonectady Octob*. 20ih. 1763
OIK '
Ware as a Report Came in from Albany by several Waggoners
Last night that Severall faimley are Cut of Back of Soposs4 By
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
2 Ante p. 883.
3 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
4 Esopus.
Indian Uprising 889
the Indians — I must Acquaint You that the Garrison at this
Place there is no Troops in — I Hope You will be Good anofe to
send me orders to Keep Gaurd of the Devence of the Town — I
am fully recolved to order a Wacht this night at the Block
House in the forest End of Albany street Till I Heare from You
As the orders I Received I have Readley Apply with
I am
Sir
Your Most Obid Humb,e Serv*.
Jacobus Van Slyck
TO Sir Wm. Johnson Barnet
ADDRESSED :
For — On His Majestys Service
Sir William Johnson Baronet
att
Johnson Hall
INDORSED
,1
Schenectady 8K 20th. 1 763
Lieu1. Co11. Vanslykes letter
Bunt2 acqls. me that 2
Children of Kanodock are
in Want.
That he is much concrned
at the loss of Kanodock
the Tuscaroras want powdr.
& Cloaths for 3 Women
£ 4 . . 7 . .11 Expence
for Inds. going to York3
1 In Johnson's hand.
2 An Onondaga sachem.
3 Memorandum in Johnson's hand.
890 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
A.L.S.1
Johnson Hall Octbr. 2hl. 1763
Sir
last night about 12 a Clock I was honoured with your Excel-
lency^ letter from 16 Miles below Albany2 together with a
Duplicate of yours dated the 1 6th.3 from New York. — A Num-
ber of Indians from different parts, (but particularly from Onon-
daga Sent by the Five Nations) arrived here yesterday Evening,
and desired a Meeting this Day with me & ye. Two Mohawk
Castles, — The Moment I can get rid of them, or Settle what
they are come about, I shall (altho but in a bad state of health)
do my self the honour of waiting on Your Excellency at Albany,
and shall count my self happy, in contributeing any ways towards
Your Excellencys Settleing proper measures with the Indians, and
of assureing You that I am with the greatest regard & Esteem,
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst —
1 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 39.
2 October 20, 1 763, ante p. 888.
3 Ante p. 883.
Indian Uprising 891
JOURNAL OF INDIAN AFFAIRS
A.D.1
[Oct. 4 - Oct. 17, 1763]
Tuesday Octbr. 4th. — Sent to acquaint the Six Nations of ye.
Ottawaes &ca. attacking our Vessel, in the River near to the
Detroit, and killing or taking five Mohawks who were along
with their Bretheren the English. — Sent by an Onondaga
Cheif —
[3 Strings] a small Belt of Wampum
Thursday the 6th. of October — a Seneca Cheif named De\an-
andi and a great freind of Mine arrived here Express, to ac-
quaint me with what news he had heard from a party of
Warriors Just arrived from the Cherokee Country, with some
Scalps & Prisoners, — Viz1, that on their way home they met
a large Body of many different Nations Assembled at a Village
of Delawares at the River Adjufyeta (a Delaware Town below
Tuscarawa a good way), where they saw the Ottawawa Con-
federacy deliver ye. War Hatchet to the Delawares, and desire
they would make use of it against the English, who were taking
their Country from them, that they then pointed out Fort Pitt,
& Fort Augusta2 as the greatest Eye sore to all the Inds. in them
parts, wherefore desired they would loose no time, in distressing
and attacking it, & that then they would/all Join them in a Body and
March towards Philadelphia, that while the Delawares [Shawan-
ese &ca] were engaged in the affair, they the Twighties, Ottawaes,
Hurons &ca. would demolish Detroit & Niagra. — The Delawares
thanked them for looking upon them now as Men, & told them
they would by their Actions Shew 'em they were worthy of the
Confidence reposed in them, then the Huron Speaker addressed
himself to the Shawanese, & warmly repremanded them for their
being so backward in Joining the rest, spending their time idly
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. In Sir William's
hand. A copy in Indian Records. Vol. 6.
2 At Shamokin, later Sunbury, Pa.
892 Sir William Johnson Papers
in Treaties with us &ca. to prevent wh. for the future, they the
Ottawawa Confederacy plucked of their Horns (when a Sachim
is appointed by themselves, he is looked upon to be cornuted — yl.
is he is to be known by all, or verry conspicuous) from their Heads,
and make them Warriors as they were, and then desired they
would exert themselves in conjunction wth. the Delawares &ca.
wh. they agreed to. —
2dly. that as these Warriors arrived at Tuscarawaes, they met
3 Hurons who on being asked where they were going, told them
they were going with a Message from their Fathers the French
living along the Mississipi, to Fort Pitt, to desire the English to
move of that ground, as it belonged to his Children the Inds., that
they the English had no right to it, or any other part of their
Country, haveing no Children in it, that if they would not hear
them & leave the Places before mentioned, He would with his
Children destroy them all. — Said Defyanandi told me that it was
ye. Chenussios, with all the other Castles of ye. Senecas except
Kanadassegey & Kanadarago, who cut of 80 of our People at
Niagra Carrying place, without loosing a Man of theirs, & but one
wounded with Shot — that the Chenussios were waiting at home
for the arrival of more of our Troops, for whose comeing they kept
a good look out, and would be ready to attack them whenever they
attempted going over the carrying place, that the rest who were with
them the 13th. Ult°. were gone home to share ye. plunder, Scalps
&ca. & would be ready at a Call, on hearing of more Troops coming
that way to join the Chenussios, — my Informant Says the
Inds. were 309 in Number when they cut of our People, He was
informed by some of those who were in ye. Action, that the first
party were cut of at once, & the reinforcement were attacked
abl. midway the carrying place, and being hard put to, gave way,
on wh. the Inds. filed of to the right & made a Wing so as to cut
them of from the Fort, and three Inds. pursued them close Yelping
as if there were great Numbers, the party imagining themselves
Surrounded, and being hard pushed by the heavy fire from the
Inds. in the Woods, they Jumped down the precipice, by which
most of them were killed, those [remaining] who survived ye. Fall
Indian Uprising 893
run along shore as far as they could, when prevented by rocks
&ca. they took to the River and were by the rapidity thereof
destroyed. An Officer on Horseback, by galloping as hard as
he could, made his Escape & got to ye. Fort.
Said Indn. [Dekanandi] gave me a Sketch of yl. Country in
which the Several Tribes of Indians live, who have lately cut
of the two Companys of the 80th. &ca. at Niagra Carrying place,
also the Names of the Cheif Men concerned therein. Viz*. Oghna-
Tvaissc, Korihonti, Tagadareghsera, Adungat, C — ga, Oguagh-
quanda, Ouaqudecfya, & Kayenquerego — with many other
peicees of Intelligence, for all wh. I thanked him heartily, recom-
mended it strongly to him to keep a good lookout, & let me know
all that passed among the Inds. — wh. he faithfully promised
to. I then gave him a verry handsome present for his Services,
and parted Sending with him 4 large Strings of Wampum to
Condole the Death of Kanodocfy an Ondaga Sachim who dyed
6 Days ago of wh. I was made acquainted by the Sachims of Sd.
Nations with 3 Strings of Wampum. —
Saturday Evening Octbr. 8th. 1 763 — The 2 Mohawks whom
I sent to Onondaga Wednesday ye. 28th. Ult°. returned, and
brought me the following Answer to my Message. —
Brother
We have been informed of the loss which You sustained lately at
Niagra Carrying place by Your Messengers, & by them we
acquaint You that last night by two Cayugaes, we have received
the disagreeable News of a Party of Cayugaes, who were out
agst. ye. Cherokees, being fallen upon in their Encampment by
the English & two killed & 3 wounded, this is what we could
not have expected from Brothers after the freindly part we have
acted since the commencem*. of hostilities and the Assurances
lately given to You of our resolutions to remain freinds, as You
desire to know what Nation or Nations of Inds. fell upon yr.
People at Niagra Carrying place, we can only say that we have
been Informed they were Chenussios & other Castles of the
Senecas from ye. Neighbourhood of Ohio, who we hear have
894 Sir William Johnson Papers
killed 90 English there, without the loss of a man on their Side,
as yr. Men behaved ill & Jumped down a great precipice, some
of them in falling stuck fast in the Forks of Trees, from whence
they were taken down by the Indians yet alive, & Scalped.
returned my own String
Brother —
As the five Nations are to assemble [ing] here in a few days
on Ace", of the great loss we have sustained lately by the Death of
one of our Cheif Sachims namely Kanodocfy, We the Onondagaes
shall then lay your Belt come by the Mohawks before them, and
when they have considered of & concluded on an Answer, You
shall be imediately made acquainted therewith. —
N B they are to give me a Belt in return for the Black one I
sent them, as Soon as they give an Answer
My two Messingers desired to talk with me in private, wh.
being agreed to, they told me as a great Secret that the Inds. from
many Quarters Cheifly Senecas & Delawares were now daily
going down to Kaghroondota on Susquahana, a place appointed
for their Rondezvous and that when they were all assembled
their Leader Quaghquoanda would then agree which of the three
following places they should fall upon, namely Shamokin, Esopus,
or Cherry Valley & the Mohawk River from Schenectady up-
ward — this Intelligence they had from Jacob an Oneida who is
married to an Onondaga Squaw, & her brother being a Sachim
told this to Jacob, who told the Mohawks he would be soon
down with me & tell me the whole of what he knew, enjoining
ye. Mohawks to the utmost secrecy. — then the Mohawks told
me that was the General now to March any considerable Body
of Men against them Inds. in Arms agsl. us that they were certain
the Five Nats. would Join him to a Man, but unless it was soon
done they plainly saw that the Five Nations tho well inclined
would be oblidged to abandon the English, as the other Nations
daily threatened to fall upon them for their attachment to us. —
they also requested that no Quantity of Amunition should be
be kept for Sale at the German Flatts, as they were verry ap-
prehansive it might fall into the Enimys Hands, they being de-
Indian Uprising 895
termined to destroy that Settlement and all the Grain along the
River. — they further learned that Outquandageghte who lives
at Kadaraghque has made a party of the Mississageys &ca. to
Stop the Communication of S». Lawrence, So as to prevent any
Troops going up that way, or provs. — Our freindly Inds. are
all vastly uneasy at ye. Generals delaying to punish those Inds.
now at war with ye. English, as that will afford them time to
treat with, & by threats &ca. turn them agst. Us, thro fear, So
that before Winter is over, they will be able to unite the whole. —
Tuesday Evening Octbr. 1 1 *. — Two Mohawks from the
lower Castle Arrived here, and acquainted me that they were
Sent by the Sachims & Warriors of y*. Castle, to let me know
that they would all [be to] wait on me the next Day. —
Gave 3 Strings of Wampum.
Wednesday 1 2th. — being all Assembled their Speaker Trana-
ragaia, after the usual Compliments, did in behalf of ye. whole
Express their great concern at our daily losses sustained, by
reason of the Small number of Troops Sent up by the General,
wh. only served as an easy prey for the Enemy Indians, and added
that unless ye. General would march up with, or send a good
Body of Men to punish those Inds. In Arms, they the Mohawks
dreaded the consequence, being apprehensive their Success would
induce those who promised to remain our freinds, to fall in with
the rest, particularly as they were not employed by Us. they then
declared their unanimous resolution of liveing & dying wlh. the
English, and that they were determined to assist us agst. any
Nation whatsoever, as would the Five Nations now, provided the
General would make any imediate attempt upon those Inds. now
at War wlh. us. they then told me the Intelligence they had
received of the designs of ye. Enemy agst. the Settlements along
this River, and begged I would be on my guard and [not]
expose my Person so much as I have done hitherto, as it would be
as great a loss to them who were our freinds, as it would be of
advantage to our Enemies to loose me.
A black Belt
896 Sir William Johnson Papers
I returned them thanks for their steady resolution of ever
remaining our freinds, and after shewing them by several reasons
how much it was their Interest, and that of the rest, to continue ye.
freindship of the English. I desired they would keep a good look
out for the Enemy, and on their acquainting me of their ap-
proach, I should imediately take such Steps, as would Secure
them from any Danger, and give the Enemy such a reception, as
might make them forever repent their rashness. I told them also,
that I was of the same opinion with them concerning Our freinds
of the Five Nations &ca. & that I had wrote ye. General upon
it, and was in hopes he would encourage them to act with the
Kings Troops soon. — I then made them a present of some powdr.
& Ball Tobacco, to be ready to defend themselves, or act with
us when required,
A Black Belt —
I then sent 2 of their People with 3 Strings of Wampum to
call the Conajoharees to a Meeting here imediately wh. they
much approved of, and promised to attend the same & assist
thereat
Saturday 1 5tfl. — Joseph a Conajohare Indn. arrived here,
and acquainted me, that the Sachims & Warriors of yl. Castle
were on their way, [hither] and would be here to Morrow
agreable to my desire.
Monday 1 7th. — A Number of the Cheifs of Conajohare,
Mohawks, Scohares, Aughquagoes, & Chugnuts assembled at
my House, when all mett in the Councill Room, Thomas King
of Oghquago Spoke as follows,
Brother Warraghiyagey, & Fathers ye. Mohawks —
I am verry glad to meet you assembled. I am wth. 3 more
sent Express by the Sachims of our Settlements on the Susqua-
hana, to inform You that a Number of Delawares headed by
Aanansseraquedera, are Assembled at Tiyooga, & have from
their Body of Men sent a party to Minissink some days ago, [n>/io]
as a Scout, and are returned with 10 Scalps, & that they being
Indian Uprising 897
now above 200, and more daily Joining them, are determined
to fall upon the Settlers at Cushicktunk, or Wioming, wh. we are
sent to inform You of, & to desire You will put them People on
their guard. — We are also desired to assure You that we of
Oghquago as far as Chughnut are determined to abide strictly
by the Engagements wh. we lately entered into with You at yr.
House, let the consequence be what it will, and should You
have occasion for our Assistance at any time, We will come on
yr. Sending for us. —
Brother —
We have to beg of You that you will Suffer Thomas Spencer
of Cherry Valley, to bring some Goods for Sale to our Settlement
at Tyanaderra, and we engage for his Safety, as everry Man
among us is determined to protect him & his Goods, at the risque
of our lives, therefore we hope You will indulge Us in our re-
quest, and you will thereby greatly oblidge Your Steadfast
Freinds at, And about Aughquago.
then the Conajoharees desired to know whether I had any
answer yet from England concerning their Land wh. Klock &
others wanted to deprive them of, adding that they were verry
uneasy in their present ticklish Scituation, and wanted to know
what we intended to do, or whether we were resolved to do any-
thing for them ye. Inds. in that affair. —
3 Strings of Wampum
Bretheren of Oghquago, and the rest of Your present —
I bid you welcome here, and am glad to see You. — The
Steadfastness & freindship which your People of Oghquago, &
that Neighbourhood now manifest, by their Sending an early
Ace", of the proceedings of the Delawares & Shawanese and
their further designs agst. ye. English gives me great pleasure,
as it confirms the good opinion I always entertained of your
Judgement & Honesty. I have only to recommend to You a con-
tinuance of this Brotherly and well Judged conduct, and to
assure you that you will in the end find it [for] yr. Interest, as
will all those Indians, who do not Join in the present wicked
898 Sir William Johnson Papers
affair. — As you have a good opertunity from Yr. Scituation,
of learning the designs of those evil minded & foolish People the
Delawares &ca. I must desire by this Belt of Wampum that You
will lay yourselves out for procureing all the Intelligence you
possibly can, and transmit the Same to me (if of any moment)
without the least loss of time, and in return You may depend
on hearing from me & the Mohawks everry thing necessary for
you to know, wh. may come to our knowledge. I expect to See
this Belt with my name & year 1 756, wh. I now give you when-
ever You Send me any news, that then I may know it comes
from Your Cheifs. —
A Black Belt marked WJ 1 756
Bretheren of Susquahana —
As You represent the great want of a Trader in yr. Nation
and have assured me You will take care that no bad use shall
be made of his bringing goods among You, and that you will
protect him from the Insults of any other People, I shall send
you an honest Sober Man, namely Thomas Spencer of Cherry
Valley, whom you are all acquainted with, and as I shall give
it in charge to him to deal fairly by & behave freindly to You,
I expect to hear no complaints from him of your People.
Bretheren of Conajohare —
I have lost no time in Sending home the State of yr. Com-
plaint for the Lords of Trade but have not as yet received their
Answer. Nay I have wrote Several times to them concerning it
this time past, but without Answer owing to the multiplicity of
business they had on hand during the War, & not to any Slight
I dare say of You. I have now to inform you that the Gentlemen
concerned in that Tract of Land, are willing to meet you and
endeavour to bring that affair to as reasonable & satisfactory an
Issue as possible, wherefore if you approve of the same I will
write them accordingly, there is one Gentleman in particular Mr.
Duncan1 of Schenectady, who has taken a great deal of Pains
1 John Duncan of the firm of Duncan and Phyn.
Indian Uprising 899
to bring this Affair to an End, and to him is owing that the others
at York agreed to the Steps proposed. —
their Answer
Brother Warraghiyagey —
As we find, that notwithstanding our many remonstrances made
these many years past both to the King & Govrs. concerning the
Injustice done us and to shew our readiness to comply with what
may be thought reasonable, we agree to meet, and treat with
sd. Gentlemen at your Castle, on the 22d. Ins1. — and that in
your Presence, as we are no Judges of what Writings are neces-
sary in such a Case, should we come to an Agreement; therefore
beg you will be so good as to be present on that day, to assist us
in doing what may be right, in order to prevent further Trouble
between us, our Children, and our Brethren the English, who
we are Sorry to say, do not act so uprightly by us, as we had
reason to expect. —
Sir Wm. Ordered them some Powder, shot, Lead, &c and
parted. —
Thomas King in private Conversation assured Sir Wm. that
the Warriors at and about Oghquago, were ready to follow any
Orders he might send them, & that they expected them daily. —
On Sir Wms. asking him, what Nation they woud soonest attack,
he answered, any who were our Enemies ; but that as our Nephews
the Delawares, seemed to behave the worst of any, and lived not
far from them, they would, if required fall on them, and cut off
that Settlement of Diaoga1 first, observing to Sir Wm., that in
such a Case they of Oghquago &c would first desire them to lay
down the Hatchet, and not use it any more against the English,
which if they did not Comply with, then they would use no fur-
ther Ceremony, but fall upon them. — He then Concluded with
assuring Sir William that he would be ready at his Call to
Join his Troops with his Party, or Act otherwise, as should be
Judged best. —
1 Tioga.
900 Sir William Johnson Papers
Sir Wm. then gave Thomas King, and those who
accompanied him Paint, & a handsome Present,
and then set off with his Belt. —
AN INDIAN CONGRESS
Contemporary Copy1
Thursday October the 20th., 1763
Cavenquerego, al Jonathan, a Conjahore Sachim arrived at
Johnson Hall, and acquainted Sir William that some Onondaga,
and other Chiefs were on their way hither, with an Answer to
the message, and Questions he had lately sent to them; that they
desired the Conjohares, & Mohawks would be present when
they spoke. — Said Jonathan also informed Sir William, that
all the Indians, who had been seduced by Klocl?2 &c, to sign
Deeds for the Conjaharee Lands, were coming to speak with
him. — Sir William dispatched a Messenger with three strings
of Wampum to call the lower Mohawks to the Meeting. —
A:M: — Same day Tarvaghsquoetha, Sayenquaraghta, chief
Warriors of Onondaga, Jacob, al Saguddariughta, an Oneida,
with several Young Men Arrived here, after getting their usual
Refreshment, the Chief, namely Tawaghsquoetha informed Sir
William that they were sent down by the Five Nations with an
answer to what he desired to know of them lately, by the black
Belt, sent by the Mohocks to them, and that as soon as they
arrived, they would deliver it. — Sir Wm. then ordered them
Provisions, and directed a Place for their Encampment. —
P.M. — Nineteen of the Conjoharees arrived, who, for two
Years before had deserted their Castle, and lived at, and about
Ury Klock's, on account of a Dispute with the Chiefs of that
Castle concerning the Lands, the latter live, and plant upon. —
after shaking hands with Sir William, Joseph, al Oniyawaghte,
their Chief, took out a single String of Wampum, and spoke
as follows. —
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
2 George (Ury) Klock.
i
Indian Uprising 901
Brother —
By this String of Wampum I am to acquaint you that these
Warriors present are come to Speak with you. —
A string of Wampum.
n , October 20th.
brother —
With these Strings of Wampum we acknowledge our Error
in not attending you, or the several Meetings you have held with
those of our Nation, or with the Six Nations, since the Reduction
of Canada, it was owing to some Differences which happened
between us, and the rest of our Nation. We took it very hard,
that the Sachims of our Castle never communicated any News
to us, but kept us in the dark. — We are now come at this Critical
Time, to hear what News there is, and to know what your Reso-
lutions are — o d. • c \v/
L otrings or Wampum
Brother —
Notwithstanding the Difference between us, and the Sachims
&c of our Castle, we never looked another way, but towards you,
and were always firm in our Attachment to the English. We
have your Hatchet yet, and keep it carefully by us, and are
ready to use the same whenever you think proper. —
To which Sir William answered
Brethren of Conjohare —
As I am now Hurried with the Business which the Five Nation
Deputies are come upon, I must defer answering you until to-
Morrow. — when I am ready, Shall acquaint you. — then Or-
dered them Refreshment, & sent them to their Encampment. —
At 6 P M : the lower Mohocks arrived. — it being too late
to hold the Meeting, Sir William sent to acquaint the Five Na-
tions that he would meet them, and the two Mohock Castles &ca.
the next Morning
21st. The Indians being all Assembled according to Appoint-
ment, Teyarhasere, alias Abraham, a Mohock, at Sir William's
Desire, condoled the Death of Kanodock, a Sachim of Onondaga,
who died shortly after the last Meeting held here with the Six Na-
902 Sir William Johnson Papers
tions. that Ceremony being over, Sir Wm. told them they might
proceed upon Business. —
Gave a large Black Belt & 3 Strings
Then Tarvaghskughta, Speaker, spoke as follows. —
Brother Warraghiyagey, & You Bretheren of the Mohocks. —
I am first to acquaint You that after the last Meeting of the
five Nations here, We the Onondagas, Called a Meeting of the
other Nations at our Fire Place, and then acquainted them of our
Resolution of going to the Great King, in order to settle all
Matters relative to the Indians, on a sure Footing, so as to prevent
future Disputes. After our Resolution was made known, the
Younger Branch of the Confederacy, viz1, the Oneidas, Cayugas
& Tuscaroras spoke as follows,
Father the Onondagas —
We are sorry to find You so determined on going to England,
as to have even pitched on the Persons who are to go. — These
very Persons who are to go, are the Chief who now preserve
Peace in these Parts; and, Should they now go, before matters
are properly Settled, it will be the means of making Affairs worse.
You see, even with their Assistance, we are not able to bring the
Senecas to a Sense of their Error; Wherefore we beg you will
lay aside the Thoughts of going, until a better and more proper
time, and Request you will leave the affair to our Brother War-
raghijagey, who is the best Judge of the Propriety thereof. —
The Onondagas answered them, and Said, it was owing to their,
& others of the Confederacy Selling their Lands which led them
to take so much trouble upon them, imagining it would be for the
Interest of the whole, to have a Stop put to the like for the future,
and concluded by saying they would leave to the determination
of their Brother Warraghijyagey, and the two Mohock Castles,
and would be ruled by their Advice in the affair —
2 Belts tied together —
Brother —
We have taken all Steps in our power to bring the Senecas to
Indian Uprising 903
Reason, and we can only tell you that we have Succeeded so far
as to bring over two Castles of them to our way of thinking;
and the Headmen of Canadarago, namely Kanias and Kanaegi
have undertaken to do the same with the rest, if possibly they can ;
Should they fail therein, they declare they will make their Cheif
Women use their Influence, which is so considerable, that they are
Seldom refused. — Then, We of the Onondagas, recommended
it in the strongest manner possible to Kanias and Kanagei to exert
themselves, assuring them it would be for the Interest of the
whole Confederacy. — Lastly the Onondaga Warriors addressed
themselves to the Sachims of the Senecas, and desired they would
go to their Young Men, and also to the Delarvares, under whose
Direction alone they were, and check, & prevent them from going
on in so wild, and unreasonable a Manner, as they Seemed to
be the most forward, & fond of Mischeif of any Nation. —
Brother —
You sent lately to acquaint us that a Number of your People
were attacked & killed, on the Carrying place of Niagara, and
desired to know, who they were, by whom it was done; we tell
you, that we have heard they were Chenussios & others living
near Ohio. — We are sorry for what has happened to you, and
we must inform you, that we are sorry to be Struck by our
Brethren the English, which is a matter we could not expect after
the Promises made to us last Year by Onas1 & Asserego,2 that
the old War Path of the Six Nations should be free for Our
Warriors to pass and repass to the Cherokees, Creeks &ca. We
have now certain Accounts by two who were of the Party, that
twenty of the Party, which consisted of Eighty encamped this
side of Onadoesta, near Ohio, and were in their Camp fallen
upon by a Number of the English, who killed two, and wounded
1 An Iroquois word meaning pen or quill. It was first applied to
William Penn. Afterwards it was used as a name for the provincial
governor of Pennsylvania.
2 Assaragoa (Asaregoa), name meaning scimitar or cutlass, given by
the Five Nations to the governor of Virginia.
904 Sir William Johnson Papers
the Headman, or Leader of the Party. — This gives us, who
are Peaceably inclined, the greatest Concern, lest this Body of
Warriors, finding on their Return, how the rest were used, may
take some rash Steps, which we would wish to prevent.
Here returned Sr. Wm's. black Belt —
Brother —
We Sachims of Onondaga, by this Belt of Wampum Entreat
you to take Pity of us, and let our Young Men, on whose Hunt-
ing we depend for Support, have some Ammunition & Paint,
also to allow good honest Men to Trade with us at Fort Stanwix,
who will give us a full Price for our Skins and Furs, and that
such Traders may be appointed by yourself, as we may then expect
fair Dealings. —
22d. A.M. Sir William gave them the following Answer
Brethren —
I thank you for acquainting me with the Reasons which have
induced You to put off your Voyage to England, and much
approve your Resolution in so doing. —
I take it as a Proof of Friendship that you have used so many
Endeavors to bring the Senecas to Reason; but these, your Steps
have more of good nature than Wisdom in them. Do you imagine
we should make Peace with People who have Acted in Violation
of all Treaties? no, certainly, neither shall we regard such Ex-
cuses as those of the Cayugas having lost some Men. I know
not the Certainty of their having lost any ; but if it is so, by whose
means were they lost? Who stopped up the Road of Peace, &
thereby occasioned their Death? Were we at War with you,
and our People constantly Scalping on your Frontiers, and one
of your Parties happening to meet with some of ours in the Woods,
would you not fall upon them? Certainly you would. —
the Case is quite different from what it has been Represented.
— You are not Struck. — the Murder of the Cayugas, Onon-
dagas, and Senecas, is what must have happened, since our
Enemies have stopped up the Road of Peace, and made us think
all we find to the Southward to be equally so. —
Indian Uprising 905
Brethren. —
My Case is very hard, on the one side I am obliged to repeat
the General's Sentiments, and on the other, to set your Behavior
in a good light. — if you regard me as your Friend, or if you
acted for my Credit, and your own, you would not give Evasive
Answers to my plain Message. I have Several times told you,
and I tell you again the General's Sentiments; and he desires
you may be assured of his Friendship; but at the same time, he
desires you will give yourselves no farther trouble about the
Senecas our Enemies; for he would not accept of their Peace if
they begged it tomorrow, but is determined to make them feel
the Consequence of Quarrelling with the English ; So that I would
advise you to have done with the People who have worked their
own Ruin, and are endeavoring to involve you in the Fate which
must attend their Cruelty. Forsake them in time, and thereby
convince us of your friendship, before it be too late. — and in so
doing, you may be assured of my Assistance, & of the protection
of the English, with all its Advantages. — These are the Words
of one, who you know, never deceived you, and be assured I
never shall, so long as you behave fairly, and friendly towards
us, and therefore honestly confess your Sentiments and Inclina-
tions without Evasion or Deceit. —
Brethren. —
As the General1 is now come to Albany where I am to meet
him in a few Days, I shall then lay before him what you have
said, and represent your Endeavors to procure Peace, after which,
I shall be better enabled to acquaint you with his farther Sen-
timents thereon. —
The same Morning the Onondagas &c. came in, an addressed
Sir William
Brother.
As you have informed us of the General's Arrival in Albany
and of your Intentions to go to him, we have thought it best that
1 General Jeffery Amherst who became Commander-in-Chief in America
in September, 1 758.
906 Sir William Johnson Papers
Five of our People should accompany you, that we may deliver
what we have to say, and hear his Sentiments thereon for the
Satisfaction of our Nations at home. — We shall therefore be
ready to attend you, to the Number of five, and the rest of our
people will immediately return home from hence. —
Of all of which Sir William approved. —
FROM WILLIAM BROWNING
f\. J— i. i3.
Niagara OcK 22* . 1763
Sir
I Have favourd with yrs. by Mr. Gage and heartily wish I coud
be of any Service to him here; as Capt Loring2 is gone up to
Detroit along with Majr Wilkins3 & Moncrieffe,4 he chooses not
to wait his return, which may be uncertain, whenever I shall See
him, I shall not fail to mention Mr. Gage to him. the Indians have
Still been watching Majr. Wilkin's Camp, about fifty of them the
1 2th Ins1 attacked his Catle guard at Litle niagora, killd & Carryd
of Eleven of ye Sixten Oxen which had been Sent us from
Ontario, and on the 20th at the Entrance of the Lake fird on the
two rear batteaus, kill'd and wounded fifteen men with L*. John-
ston of the Platoons, whom I have this day burryd here, he died
Some minits after his arrival, as did Some of the wounded men.
the Serg* who only of the two boats Crew Escaped unhurt and
managd the boat with the wounded; Says he Saw about Eighty
or ninety Indians on the bank, we have no method of Learning
what nation they are of. I hope the Supplys will get up well to
Majr. Gladwin it will enable him to Extend his boundaries and
procure Provissions in the Country, this has been and is Like to
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Captain (Commodore) Joshua Loring.
3 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander of the Niagara
post.
4 Major Thomas Moncrieffe.
Indian Uprising 907
Continue the most troublesome Situation I ever was in with Such
a number of Inconveniencys but we must withstand them all by
perseverence. if any thing material occurs I shall not fail to write
you.
I am S'. Y'. faithful
and obed1 Hume Serv1
Will Browning1
ADDRESSED ;
INDORSED:2
To
Sr William Johnston Baron1
Johnston Hall
Niagra Octb. 22<*. 1 762
Lieu1. Co". Brownings letter
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Cop})3
Niagara, Octob. 22d, 1763.
Honorable Sir:
In your last you desired to know whether Daniel & the rest of
the Indians was gone to Detroit, the former has been up with
two Parties & has the Character of a good Man from every one,
but most People give an indifferent Ace1 of Aron. There has been
no Indians here; the Traders at this Post are all Suttlers. Major
Wilkins4 is gone with the last Partie & has taken with him all
the Belts and Bands Wampham to the Wapagamat Indians. I
dont learn by any Accounts that the s'd Indians have done any
1 William Browning, Major of the 46th British regiment; lieutenant
colonel in the French and Indian War.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 183-84 J
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 1 84.
4 Major John Wilkins of the 60th regiment, commander of the Niagara
post.
908 Sir William Johnson Papers
Mischief at present. I have no more to relate at this Juncture
than have sent enclosed Mr. Stedmans Ace1 of what happen'd
the 19th & 20th Inst., the s'd Person being present at the whole
Affair.
I have an Intention to go as I think wou'd be proper amongst
some of the Wapagamats to get Intelligence but believe it will
be very dangerous, therefore beg your Instructions by the first
Opportunity.
I am, Sir,
You most Obed1 Hum' Serv'
De Couagne
Sir:
I have further to inform you that all the Canadians who have
Passes from General Gage to Trade are stopp'd at the different
Posts.
To the Hon. SlR WlLLIAM JOHNSON, Bt.,
at Johnson Hall
JOHN BLAIR TO GOVERNOR COLDEN
Contemporary Copy1
Copy of a letter from Mr. Blair2 President of the
Council of his Majesty's Colony & Dominion of
Virginia to the Governor of New York,3 dated
Williamsburgh, October 22d. 1763. —
Sir
The Council here this morning had under their Consideration
a Letter from Colonel Andrew Lewis4 of the 10th. Ins1, giving
an account of a Party of Indians, 94 in number that passed
through our Frontier Country in the Spring as friends, pretending
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
2 John Blair, president of the Council of Virginia.
3 Cadwallader Colden, Lieutenant Governor of New York.
4 Andrew Lewis, commissioner for Virginia.
Indian Uprising 909
they had War with the Cherokees; but in their Return, fell upon
our Frontiers in a barbarous, and Hostile manner, murdering, &
Plundering. — A Party of them, of 23, was well chastised by
Cap'. Englis with 30 Men, who hav§. killed, and Wounded sev-
eral of them, and put the rest to flight, Rescued 4 Prisoners and
retook 30 Horses, and all their Plunder, but a large Number
of them overpowered a Party of ours under Cap1. Moffat, and
Philips, and obliged them to save themselves by flight, leaving
12 of their Men dead on the Spot, whose Scalps were found in
their Baggage in a late Action against them by 1 50 Voluntiers,
that Col. Lewis had raised in one night to pursue those that had
defeated Capls. Moffat and Philips. They came upon them by
Surprize, and attacking them in their Camp soon put them to
flight, leaving Six dead, and the Tracks of 15 or more marked
with great effusion of Blood : but a large Laurel Thicket screened
them from the Pursuers. —
The Council pray the Favor of your Exc>\ to enquire of Sir
Wm. Johnson, whether he by his Passes Licensed any Northern
Indians to go to the Southward, of what Nation they were, what,
their Numbers, when they set out, and when they Returned.
We are thus inquisitive, to fix it on the guilty, being strongly
persuaded it was some Northern Tribe that did us all this Mis-
chief. — Col. Lewis is of Opinion that it was but a Pretence of
theirs that they were going to strike the Cherokees. for they had
no Indian Prisoners, nor Scalp, but on the contrary, he found
Belts of Wampum in their Baggage, which makes him suspect
their Business was to engage the Cherokees to Join them against
us, but that they will conceal their Design 'till they have got the
large Present they expect, but I hope when our Lieut1. Governor
comes back we shall have a good account of all the Southern
Indians. —
I am with great Respect. —
Your Excy*. &c —
John Blair
910 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Cop})1
Fort George Oct' 24th 1763.
Dear Sir,
I have your favour of the 1 3th2 by the Post. Sir Jeffery com-
municated to me yours of the 6th3 to the same purpose, on which
I immediately came to town with a resolution to remain here that
I may give the necessary Orders. My directions to the several
Colonels concludes with this General one to take every prudent
measure in their power for defence of the Frontiers. I must desire
you to continue to inform me from time to time of what Intel-
ligence you receive & likewise to correspond with the Colonels on
the frontiers as any exigency shall require.
I cannot tell the reason why Mr Johnson's4 Commission has
not been out before now, I shall send it with this & three blank
commissions0 which the present exigency makes proper to be don,
but I expected more particular information as to the manner of
forming the Troop nor can it otherwise be don. Be assured Sir
that nothing gives me more pleasure than doing what is agreeable
to you.
Sir Jeffery's going to Albany may perhaps produce some
change of measures, it will give me great pleasure to know that
your meeting has given you pleasure.
By a vessell which came in Saturday night from Bristol we
learn that the Earl of Egremont Secretary of State dyed on the
22nd of August of an apoplectic fit. I am with the greatest Esteem
and Sincerity Sir.
When you fill up the inclosed Commissions return the names,
office & Date to be entered in the Secretaries office.
1 Printed in Collections of New York Historical Society, 1876, Colden
Papers, p. 249-50.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:215-16.
3 Johnson to Amherst, Oct. 6, 1 763, ante p. 866.
4 Guy Johnson, commissioned captain in the regiment of Albany militia.
5 Commissions for officers in the militia.
Indian Uprising 91 1
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
[Od. 24, /763]
Sir William Johnson is desired to assure the Sachems and the
Chief Warriours of the Friendly Indians of a continuance of the
Generals good Intentions for the Security and protection of their
Lands and properties to them, and that they shall meet with
every reward their Conduct and good behaviour will deserve,
while on the other hand the Tribes who have so unjustly and
treacherously commenced hostilities shall certainly meet with the
Punishment their Barbarities require, for which the General is
preparing to effect, and that cannot fail either in rewarding the
trusty & faithfull Indians as they merit, or in punishing the Guilty
as their Crimes deserve, Given under my hand and Seal this 24th.
October 1 763 —
Jeff: Amherst
indorsed:
Sir Jeffy. Amherst's Instructions
to Sir Wm. Johnson relative to
the IncR — 24th 8ber 1 763.
Entd. in Vol. 9th. Indn. Recds.
Page 16.
2In Octr. of this Year [Gen'.] Sir Jeffy. Amherst came up to
Albany where he had a Conference with Sir W Johnson touch-
ing the dissattisfact". of the Inds. occasioned by what they deemed
ill treatment at the Siege of Fort Levis,3 as well as from Sev1.
Circumstances that had happened whereby they considered them-
selves as neglected. After much discourse on these heads [the
Gen1.] Sir Jeffery took his Leave & returned to N York at the
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9.
2 A copy of the above instructions in Johnson's hand also appears in
Indian Records, Vol. 9. Below the copy is this note in Guy Johnson's hand.
3 Fort Levis (later Fort William Augustus), on Isle Royale (now
Chimney Island) in the St. Lawrence River.
912 Sir William Johnson Papers
same time delivering [him] Sir Wm. a paper under his Hand &
Seal of which the foregoing is a Copy —
G Johnson D A.
as
Secy.
INDORSED:1
Sir Jeffery Amhersts Letter
to Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1
Entd. in Vol : 9th. Indn Recds — Page 1 6 —
INDORSED:1
Sir Jeffy. Amhersts Declaratn.
to thelnd*. Ocf. 24th. 1763.
delivd. to Sr W Johnson
Record^, in Vol 9. P. 1 6.
FROM JEFFERY AMHERST
Contemporary Copy2
New York, 29th. October 1763 —
Sir.
On my Return from Albany I Found your Letter of the 13th.
Instant, with the Accompt of your Disbursements Enclosed, for
the Amount of which I now Transmit you a Warrant. —
As I had the pleasure of Conversing with you fully on the
Contents of your Letter, I need not now Enter upon the Subject;
But Immediately on my Arrival here, I Wrote to the Ll. Governor
Representing to him the Necessity of Providing the Militia with
powder & Lead; In Answer to which he Acquainted me, "that
he had not a Single Ounce of Gun Powder, or of any other kind
of Ammunition for the Use of the Militia on any Emergency:
1 Indorsements on Sir William's copy.
2 In Public Record Office, W. O. 34, Vol. 38.
Indian Uprising 913
And that therefore he could not Supply these Articles 'till the
Assembly Enabled him to Do it."
The LA Governor Assures me he has sent you the Commissions,
agreeably to your Desires, for Filling the Vacancy s and appoint-
ing the proper Officers in the Militia: And I am persuaded he
will Use his utmost Endeavors, when the Assembly meets to
prevail upon them to put the Militia on a Respectable Footing;
In the mean time, I am as well Convinced that you will take
Every Measure in your Power to protect the Settlements in your
Neighborhood, by giving proper Orders to the Militia, so that
they may be at all times Ready, in case of any Attacks, untill
the Season will permit Us to put in Execution the Intended Plan
of Crushing the Savages, who have Committed the Hostilities, &
Punishing them as they Deserve ; And of Convincing those Tribes,
who, by your Persuasion & Influence, have Remained Quiet, of
our Friendly Intentions towards them.
In a Letter I have Received from L*. Colonel Campbell1 of
the 7th. Instant, is the following Paragraph.
"All the Bridges on the Communication from this2 to the
Flatts,3 were Broke down by the Oxen that Arrived here this
Day, to be forwarded to Niagara : In Case they are not Repaired
before the Winter Sets in, I Apprehend the Roads will be Im-
passable for Sledges, & it is not in my power to Spare any Men
from this Post to Repair any of them at present." —
I Acquaint Colonel Bradstreet of this: but I Fear he has no
way of Remedying it: And I should hope you might be able to
Prevail on the Inhabitants to Effect so Necessary & Usefull a
piece of Service. —
I Have Directed I_J. Colonel Campbell to Send a Guard for
Johnson Hall, so soon as he is Joyned by the Detachment from
Crown Point: Should he send only Eight or Ten Men; he will
afterwards Reinforce it to Eighteen or Twenty; And when he
1 Lieutenant Colonel John Campbell of the 1 7th regiment stationed
at Fort Stanwix.
2 Fort Stanwix.
3 German Flats.
914 Sir William Johnson Papers
can Spare Men, he is to Send a Detachment to Fort Johnson.
Fort Herkheimer1 shall be Garrisoned hereafter, as I Told you I
would in case you Judged it Necessary, and that I have Men to
Do it. —
I am, with great Regard,
Sir,
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1:
RECEIPT OF ALEXANDER McKEE TO GEORGE CROGHAN
D.S.2
[Fort Pitt October 31, 1763]
Received of George Croghan Esqr. Eighty Pounds |
Shillings & two Pence Pennsulvanis Currency of
-ds Sterling being my full Pay as an As — [
at Fort Pitt from the 1 st May to the 3 1 st October 1 763
Alexander [McKee]
FROM WILLIAM EDGAR
Extract3
[Detroit] Novb. K 1763.
I Have lately received a Letter from Hombach4 which came
by Officer from Illenois, who brought a Belt & Letter to the
1 Fort Herkimer, across the Mohawk river from the German Flats.
2 In New York State Library. Partly damaged by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 185.
3 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 1 89,
where it is given as an extract of a letter to Sir William Johnson; the
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. Johnson
Calendar p. 185, questions its being addressed to Johnson.
4 Henry Hambach, (Hambough) a prisoner in the Illinois. See
Richard Winston to traders at Detroit, in Parkman, Conspiracy) of
Pontiac, 1 :285n.
Indian Uprising 915
Savages, with the Account of the Peace, between England and
France, which neither the Savages nor the French here believed
till now. In Consequence of which, our most implacable Enemys,
the Ottawas (who were the only Nation here disposed for con-
tinuing the War, all the rest having begged forgiveness for what
they have done, of our worthy Commandant) * are now, with the
others, suing for Peace, in the most abject Manner. Mr. Prentice2
is very well at Sandusky, as is Mr Winston,3 at St. Josephs, and
from the present Disposition of the Savages, I apprehend they
will soon bring them in.
TO THE AUTHORITIES AT GERMAN FLATS
Copx?
Novbr 3d. 1763.
Gentlen :
As I understand that some Chenopsco5 Indians (who are now
our Enemies) make a Practice of coming to the German Flatts
to purchase Powder & other things wh you know is not allowed,
besides, when there, they have an Opportunity of making their
Remarks & seeing our Strength, you should in order to prevent
ye like for the Future, take up all such as you find of that Nation
& send them Prisoners to Albany under a good Guard, first being
certain that they are our Enemies — not doubting but that yr
1 Lieut. Col. Henry Gladwin.
2 Probably a trader at Sandusky.
3 Richard Winston, a trader at St. Joseph's. See Parkman Conspiracy
of Ponliac, 1 :285n.
4 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 1 89-90 ;
the draft in the New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Calendar, p. 185.
5 Genesee (Chenussio.)
916 Sir William Johnson Papers
own Prudence will lead you both to do every thing of that Kind
with Propriety & Discretion. I need add no more.
INDORSED:
Letter to Justices Frank1 & Harkemer2 to apprehend
any Chenupscos3 who may come to the Flatts
FROM VOLKERT PETER DOUW
Coptf
Albany, Novemb. 3d. 1763.
Sir:
I Thought it not improper at this Time to acquaint you as be-
ing Commissioner of Indian Affairs that last Night arrived here
three Tennesie5 Indians directly from there Castle as they say;
they also say they waited on you as they passed in there way to
Albany of which I doubt much; they have a small Quantity
of Beaver with them but no Person chuses to Trade with them
without Liberty. I am at a loss how to act with regard to those
Indians and should be glad of your Direction therein by the
Return of the Bearer.
I am, Sir,
Your most Hum1 Servant,
VOLCKERT P. DOUW6
To Sir William Jonson, Barnit.
1 Captain Conrad Franck, justice of the peace.
2 John Jost Herchheimer (Herkimer) , justice of the peace.
3 Chenussios.
4 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 1 90 ; the
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 1 85.
5 Probably Jennesie, for Genesee.
6 Volkert Peter Douw, mayor of Albany from 1 761 to 1 770.
Indian Uprising 9 1 7
GUY JOHNSON TO JACOBUS VAN SLYKE
Copy1
Johnson Hall, Novr 3*. 1763.
Orders
As the Safety and Protection of Schenectady depends in a
great Measure on the keep of a good Guard in the Town, it is Sir
Wm. Johnsons Orders that the Commanding Officer of the second
Bataillon of Militia for the County of Albany do immediately
appoint a Guard consisting of a Subaltern, Serj't, Corporal and
twenty Men to mount at the Block House in the Albany Street
and to be regularly relieved every 24 Hours until further Orders,
which Guard is to post Centinels at such Places as the Command-
ing Officer of the Battaillon shall judge best, the Centinels to be
regularly relieved by the Corporal of the Guard every two Hours
and the Officer to let no more than two Men be at any Time
absent from the Guard. Every Evening at Sunset the Officer of
the Guard is to have his Men under Arms, the Roll called & Mens
Arms, &c. examined & see that they are furnished with 1 2 Rounds
of Powder & Ball, no Person is to be absent on pain of Punish-
ment and the Town Major is at the Time he thinks necessary
to visit the Guards & Centinels & make a Report thereof to the
Commanding Officer. The Serjeant of the Guard to visit the
Centinels frequently during the Night and the Officer on being
relieved to make a Report of the Guard in Writing to the Com-
manding Officer who is to see these Orders strictly complied with.
In case of an Alarm the Militia are to assemble at the Dutch
Church and there to follow such Orders as they shall receive
from the Commanding Officer for the Protection of the Town, the
Guard turning out & continuing under Arms until they shall
receive the Commanding Officers Orders.
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 191-92;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 185.
918 Sir William Johnson Papers
And the Commanding Officer is to transmit in writing to Sir
Wm. Johnson a Return of the state of the Blockhouse and other
Fortifications about the Town, as also of the Number, State &
Quality of the Cannon & Ammunition, &c., immediately.
G. Johnson Capt & Adjutant
of the Reg1 of Alb Militia
Col. Vanslyke, &c
FROM GAVIN COCHRANE
Copy1
Fort Johnson, Novb. 5th, 1763.
Dear Sir:
I Came here yesterday & had the Pleasure to find all your
Friends here well — the Battoe is in a Hurry to go down which
prevents my having the Pleasure of waiting on you. Capt. Daniel,
at parting, pressed me much to give an Account of his Behaviour
whilst with me when I was guarding the Wreck; I was there
above a Fortnight & in all that Time he was but once drunk,
always at my Elbow, & very Industrious to do every thing to
ingratiate himself with me, and so was Jacob, who was with him.
We were fired at for near two Hours by 25 to 30 Indians, as they
guessed from the Tracks afterwards & Daniel kept close by me
& showed great Zeal — we lost 3 Men ; the Enemy came very
near but we could not get one Shot at them — the Behaviour of
Aaron, &c. occasioned me to be sollicited not to send Daniel up
with the Schooner, but I sent him ; nor will I believe the Mohawks
in general dishonest.
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 192-93;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 186.
Indian Uprising 919
Fatigue & Cold gave me an Illness which tho' I have not yet
quite recovered I am pretty well, only in a very bad Weather
I am pretty sure still of a Ague Fit. I am so far on my Way to
New York.
The Troops for Detroit, about 600 Men under Major Wilkins
got out from the Head of the Rapids at the Entrance into Lake
Erie the 20th of October. Two Boats were fired upon at embark-
ing there & all in them except a Serj1 killed or wounded; five
were killed & one died of his Wounds, as did also Lf. Johnson;
there were a good Body of Men still ashore who pursued & en-
gaged in the Woods for some Time & then returned in good
Order to the Boats. This is the Serjeants Account who remained
unhurt, who said he saw this at a Distance but knows no other
Particulars.
I don't know whether it is worth mentioning to you that whilst
I was at Fort Stanwix I was told a Squaw of the Oneidas that
had just come said there was a Report amongst them that 20 of
their Young Men had been killed by our People in the Cheroquee
Country & that the Oneydas were holding a Council about it.
I am, with great Sincerity, Dear Sir,
Your most obedient & very humble Servt.
Gavin Cochrane
The Number in the two Boats that were fired upon was 14
exclusive of the two Officers.
FROM JOSHUA LORING
Oswego Nov. 9ih. 1763.
Sir
I received your favour by Mr. Gage, am very sorry it did not
meet me Earlier in the year, the season is now too far advanced,
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
920 Sir William Johnson Papers
that all the Vessels are laying up, and of Course no Employment
in that way till spring, when I shall be very glad of an opportunity
of Employing him, in the mean time I have given him my Letters
to Gen1. Amherst, in which I have mentioned Mr. Gage, and
Desired that he might be Employ'd in Collecting and taking
Charge of the Stores, I have wrote for, and in Raising Seamen
for the Service of next year, what time I shall be able to allow
him pay from, at present cannot tell, but you may depend upon
my doing all in my Power to serve him, and hope he has seen
his mistake and will Endeavour to do every thing in his power
to Answer any Recommendation his friends may give him. We
have no News from Detroit since the Schooner left it which was
the 7th things were then in much the same Situation as they have
been all summer, only that the Indians had got an Acco1. of
our Partys going up, and that Pontaic had gone off with about
700 Indians in order to meet our party, and that at all the principal
Landing Places there were partys to watch them, waiting for a
favourable opportunity to Strike a Stroke, but it was likeways
said, that they had gone on the South side. Expecting our people
would have gone that way, for my part I am very Uneasie for
their safty, Especially after seeing what happened to them at
the Rapids upon an open beech, for should the Indians give them
one severe stroke it would intirely destroy the strength of that
party, and they must get back as well as they can, but I hope in
God they will get get safe there, I am afraid some people will find
this War much more troublesome than was Expected when it
first began, it does not appear to me as yet from what has
happened, that the Chastisement of these Nations is so feasiable
a thing as has been often said, it is likeways often said that there
is nothing will convince some people of their Mistakes but a
hearty drubbing, and I think put all our Losses together and it
will amount to a pretty Considerable one, but I hope next year
the Scene will Change for the better — I have been very unwell
Indian Uprising 921
this fall, and at present am not able to go down the Country, so
must Content my self with remaining here all winter, and am
Sir
Your most Obed1. Servant
j0Sa LORING1
Sir William Johnson
indorsed:2
Oswego Novbr. 9th. 1 763
Commodore Lorings letter
Mr. Gage
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Coptf
Niagara, Nov 11th, 1763.
Honble Sirs :
My last to you was to acquaint you of Daniel, &c.,4 which I
hope came safe to your Hands, since which a small Party went out
from the Lower Landing to cut Wood, when a Body of Indians
surrounded them & killd & scalped nine, one of which had his
Head cut off within Sight of that Post, it is supposed that the
Indian who did this Murder was wounded from the Fort, as he
1 Joshua Loring, captain in the British navy ; in the French and
Indian War commanded naval operations on Lakes George, Champlain
and Ontario in 1 759 and 1 760 ; accompanied Amherst to Montreal ;
described in a contemporary record of his death in 1781 as "late
Commodore of the lakes of North America."
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 81 n;
the original in the New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Calendar p. 1 86.
4 October 22, 1 763, ante p. 907.
922 Sir William Johnson Papers
was seen go off lame with the Head in his Hand, all which
happen'd on the fifth Instant.
I am in hopes of a Line from you the first Oppertunity wherein
should be glad to know how Affairs go down the Country, I mean
in regard to the Indians, &c.
I am Sir
Your obd1 HumIe Ser.
De Couagne
P.S. Sir here is two Sisters of Silver Heells at this Place who
would be glad to know where he is. One of them is the lame one,
the other is the young one. Neither of them dare go to the Castle.
FROM GERRET A. LANSINGH
Copy1
[Schenectady, Novbr. 11th, 1763.]
Sir:
Agreable to your Orders I have been round the Town to
revue the Condition and State of the Fort, Blockhouses, Cannon,
Amanition &c, likewise the Stockagadess ; as for the Fort is but
in a verry consetreable Condition, whants a good Teal of prepar-
ing and the Blockhouse at the Widow Van Eps at the North Side
of the Town is unfit for Service, no Shimble in nor Flowr, at the
Blockhouse at Daniel De Graff at the southwest End of the town
is entirely unfit for Service is ready to fall down. The Blockhouse
at Mr. Ryner Mynders whants lettle repairing. As to the Block
House on the South End of Albany Street is fit to keep a Wacht
in, and the Block House which formley use to stand at Mr.
Thomas Nixson Door is intirely takeing away and no more of,
and as for Stoagadeges about the Town there is about seventy of
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 201-2;
the original in the New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Calendar, p. 1 86.
Indian Uprising 923
them mostly rotton; as for Cannon in the Fort that belongs to it
there is none fit for Service, there is no Cannon in the Block
Houses not a single one, and there is a few Cannon lying up the
Albany Hill unfit for Service which has been takeing out of the
Fort and Blockhouse and have been tryed by Soldier & Conduc-
tors of the Royall Artellery and is found to be condemned; as
for Powder there is two Cask of about 50 Wieght each which
belongs to the Township of Schenectady likewise 30 Wieght grave
Schot and about seventy or eighty small Hand Granades.
I am Sir
Your most obed humbI Serv1
Gerret A Lansingh Cap1
To Sir Wm= Johnson, Bar1.
INDORSED :
Capt. Lansinghs Return of ye State of ye Blockhouses, &c.
at Schenectady.
A Return of Condition & State of the Fortification of the
Township of Schenectady. Novbr. 1 1th, 1 763.
FROM DAVID VAN DER HEYDEN
L.S.1
Albv. 15* Nov. 1763
Sir
I have desird Mr. Abram Cuyler, who is intended for the
Compy. of Grenadiers, to choose those young men for his Sub-
alterns, whom he thought most worthy, (as he is better acquainted
with them than I am) He has pointed out those following which
I think very propper Viz: Barent J. Ten Eyk for the first
Lieutcy., he was a Lieut in the York service, John C: Tenbrook
1 In New York Public Library.
924 Sir William Johnson Papers
for the 2d. Lieut0?., & Jacob Cuyler for the Ensigncy, who hope
for your approbation.
I am Sr. yr. most ObecK Serv1.
David Van Der Heyden1
P. S. Mr. Jacob Cuyler, who was to have
brought your Bundle from Canada says,
that when he came away Mr. Lotridg2 was
not at home, so that he brought nothing
but the Letter
TO JEFFERY AMHERST
Johnson Hall Novbr. Jjth^ 176S
Sir
I have been favoured with your Excellencys letter of the 29th.
Ult°., together with the Warrant for my disbursements.
The Lieu1. Governour4 has sent me some Commissions5 and I
shall continue to take everry step in my power for putting the
Militia on the most respectable footing the Law will admit of,
for the better security of these Frontiers. —
I am sorry to hear of the bad state of ye. Bridges on the Com-
munication to Fort Stanwix, as it is not in my power to get
them repaired, the Country People thinking it verry hard that
they are held in readiness to march, neither can they be procured
by any means to work upon Roads beyond the Frontier Settle-
ments, as there is no Law to compell them thereto, without which
they will do nothing but on high pay. —
The Party from Fort Stanwix to garrison this place is not yet
1 An Albany merchant, lieutenant colonel in Albany county militia.
2 Captain John Lottridge of the Indian service.
3 In William L. Clements Library.
4 Cadwallader Colden.
5 Commissions for officers in the Militia.
Indian Uprising
925
arrived, but I am hopefull they are on their way, as the Reinforce-
ment must have been arrived there some Days. —
Severall Indians are now here, Some from the freindly tribes
on the Susquahana who inform me that the Delawares &ca. who
are our Enemies and live below their Settlements, are daily pro-
curing reinforcements, & determined to continue their hostilities on
the Frontiers of Pensilvania &ca., notwithstanding the daily en-
deavours of our Freinds to disuade them, these Indians now begin
to fear on their own Acctts. — Some Onondagaes are likewise
here, who repeat the Assurances of the fidelity of their Nation,
notwithstanding the reason they have to dread the resentment of our
Enemies. —
I was a good deal surprised to hear the other day of Your Ex-
cellencys intended departure for England, be assured Sir I wish
You a happy Voyage, and a safe arrival at home, where You
will undoubtedly enjoy ease and Satisfaction, in lieu of the cares
& anxieties in which your station must necessarily involve You
dureing the present unhappy ruptures in this Country. —
with sincere wishes for your prosperity,
I am with all Esteem
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient
and most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
Sir Jeffery Amherst
Knight of the Bath —
INDORSED :
Sr. Wm. Johnson, to Sr.
Jeff. Amherst Nov. 1 7*. 1 763
received Novr. 28th. —
Answered Novr. 30th.
926 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM THOMAS GAGE
Contemporary Copy1
New York, 21st. November, 1763. —
Sir,
Since the Departure of Sir Jeffery Amherst who sailed the 1 8th.
Instant for England, I have received a Letter from the Council of
Virginia Complaining of the Depredations of the Northern Indians
on the Frontiers of that Province, and for your better Information
thereof, I Enclose you a Copy of the said Letter, begging the
favor of you to return me an Answer thereto, as soon as you shall
have made the Necessary Enquirys therein, that I may transmit the
same to Ll : Governor Fauquier.2 —
When I had the Pleasure of Seeing you at Albany, I mentioned
the Loss of Captain Lotteridge,3 and the necessity of sending a
proper Person to Montreal to replace him. I have Since received a
Letter from Governor Burton4 requesting, that Such a Person
should be sent as soon as possible ; And I have to desire you will
be so good to Order Captain Claus5 thither. If he is there the
Beginning of the New Year, the Time the Indians are coming
Home from their Hunt. I believe it will be soon enough. —
I am with great Regard,
Sir
&ca.
Sir William Johnson Bar1:
1 In William L. Clements Library.
2 Francis Fauquier, lieutenant governor of Virginia, 1758-1768.
3 Captain John Lottridge of the Indian service, who disappeared in
November, 1 763, and who was supposed to have been drowned.
4 When Amherst departed for England in 1 763 he was succeeded by
Major General Gage as commander in chief of his Majesty's forces in
North America. Colonel Ralph Burton then succeeded Gage as Governor
of Montreal.
5 Captain Daniel Claus.
Indian Uprising 927
INDORSED :
Copy./.
To Sir Wm. Johnson Bar*.
Johnson Hall —
New York 2 1 sl. November, 1 763
Enclosed a Copy of a
Letter from Mr. Blair1 pres*.
of the Council of Virginia
regarding the Depredations
of Some Northern Indians.
A DEED OF RELEASE
Contemporary Copy2
Copy of the Deed of Release from the Parteners in the
Conajohare Patent to the Indians of that Castle bearing
date the 22d. of Novemr. 1 763 —
To all to whom these Presents shall come Greeting, — Know
ye that we Philip Livingston, William Livingston, Walter Ruther-
ford, William Burnet Brown, George Klock, and John Duncan
part Owners of the Tract of Land granted to Abraham Van
Home, William Prevost, Philip Livingston, and Mary, the
Daughter of William Burnet Esqre. late Governor, and Com-
mander in chief of the Province of New York by Letters Pattent
bearing date the thirteenth day of November, one thousand seven
hundred and thirty one for and in Consideration of the Sum of
Five Shillings current Money of the Province of New York As
also for divers others good Causes, and Considerations them
thereunto Moving Have Remised, Released, and for ever quit
Claim and by these Presents for themselves, and their Heirs Do
fully clearly and absolutely Remise, release and forever quit
Claim unto Johannes Carehoga, Kayinquerego, and Rakeridigha,
1 John Blair.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
928 Sir William Johnson Papers
in their full and peaceable Possession, and Seizin thereof now
being, and to their Heirs for ever All their Right, Estate, Title,
Interest, and Demand whatsoever of and in all That certain
Tract and Parcel of Land Beginning at the Corner of Schuylers
Fence upon the Mohock River, from thence Running South
thirty Degrees West One hundred and sixty eight Chains to the
Southermost Line of the said Patent, — Thence Running along
said Line North forty eight Degrees West two hundred and eight
four Chains, Thence North Eighty Degrees East one hundred &
Sixty Chains to Trukannanodo Creek, — Thence down the
Mohock River the several Courses to the Beginning To have and
to Hold all the said Tract, and Parcel of Land unto the said
Johannes Carehoga, Kayinquerego, and Rakeredigha, and their
Heirs for ever to the Sole and only proper use, and behoof of the
said Johannes Carehoga, Kayenquerego & Rakeredigha and their
Heirs for ever in Trust nevertheless to the only proper use and
behoof of them the said Johannes Carehoga, Kayenquerego, and
Rakeredigha, and all the rest of the native Indians belonging to
the Conajohare Castle, and their Heirs for ever, So that neither
they the said Philip Livingston, William Livingston, Walter
Rutherford, William Burnet Brown, George Klock & John
Duncan nor their Heirs, nor any other Person, or Persons for them,
or in the name, Right, or Stead of any of them, shall, or will,
by any Ways, or Means thereafter have Claim, Challenge or
Demand any Estate, Right, Title, or Interest of, in, or to the
said Premisses, or any Part or Parcel thereof, but from all, and
every Action, Right, Estate, Title, Interest or Demand of in or
to the said Premisses, or any part thereof they, and every of them
shall be utterly excluded, & Barred by these Presents — In Wit-
ness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and Seals the twenty
second Day of November in the Yeare of our Lord one thousand
Seven hundred, and Sixty three. —
Indian Uprising
929
Sealed & Delivered by
Philip Livingston, —
William Livingston &
Walter Rutherford in
the Presence of —
Sealed & Delivered by
William Burnet Brown,
in the Presence of —
the Words John Duncan in
the second Line wrote on a
Razure, — a Razure made
between the Word (Heirs) of
the Sixth Line, & the Word
(for) in the Seventh Line —
also a Razure made between
the Word (Heirs) & the
Word (fore) of the Eleventh
Line
Michael Jeffrey —
Jn°. Broome —
Sealed & Delivered by John"
DUNCAN in the Presence of
the Words (thirty one) (Sixty
eight) (two) (Eighty four)
in the eight and ninth Lines
being first wrote on a Ra-
zure
WM. Johnson
Guy Johnson
Phil. Livingston L. S.
Wil. Livingston L. S.
Wal. Rutherford L. S.
John Duncan L. S.
930 Sir William Johnson Papers
AN INDIAN CONFERENCE
A. D.1
[Nov. 7-24, 1763]
Monday 7th. Novbr. 3 Chenussio Inds. came from Albany to my
House escorted by Ryckman2 & Antony Blaker3 with a letter from
the Mayor4 of Albany. I desired they woud Stay at my house
until my return from Albany. —
D°. Die I mett 40 Stockbridge Inds. on their way to my House.
I turned them back & mett with them in Alb>\ W. passed there is
another Sheet. — 5
Albany Thursday Novbr. 1 0th. 1 763 — at a Meeting with 48
Stockbridge Indians at my House, Captn. Jacobs in behalf of the
Whole Spoke as follows —
Father
We understand of late that You some time ago Sent a Belt of
Wampum to our Town by Robert Knockepot on business,
[which] we are now come to assure You that we never received
it. —
Our Warriors are now come to hear from You what the purport
of it was, also of what You lately wrote Us by Thomas Wolfe. —
Father —
We are also come to assure You of our concern for the treat-
ment You daily receive from those Indians who are now Striking
You on the Head. r> i t wi
a bunch or Wampum
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. In Johnson's hand.
Also a copy in Indian Records Vol. 7, the order of which is followed here.
2 Peter Ryckman, an Albany merchant and Indian trader.
3 An Albany merchant and Indian trader.
4 Volkert Peter Douw, mayor of Albany from 1761 to 1770.
5 On the margin of the manuscript is written in Johnson's hand the
following :
to write ye. Justices of Kent tol
.i . r i ]• • ,t i to answer this fully & acquaint ye.
see that ye. Inds. hveing there be \ J ^
not 111 treated for ye. time to come Mohawks
Indian Uprising 931
Father —
We remember the old Agreement made between our Fore-
fathers, it does not nor never shall go out of our Minds, wherefore
we now tell You that we are resolved to Share the Same fate
wth. You & that our bones shall lye together.
Father —
By this Belt we now offer You our Services, and in case You
are any ways concerned in Mind, or angry with any Nation that
is ill disposed, we shall be ready at yr. Call to come and join You,
not as Soldiers in pay as in ye. last War, but as Children who love
their Father. A ^ _
Father —
We now Shew You this large Belt, with wh. we intend to
speak to the Delawares & Shawanese, and try to make they lay
down their Hatchet, If You approve of it. here repeated wl.
they intended to Say to the Shawanese viz*, that as they the
Mohicanders Saved them the Shawanese from Distruction former-
ly, when drove about by other Nations, [the}} then pray] * and were
Sett down by them at ye. Minissinks to live, the Shawanese then
promised they would always pay regard to whatever we should
advise, we will now desire them to lay down ye. Hatchet wch.
they understand they received from other Nats. of Indians, if they
have any regard for their old & Young, who by their laying down
the Hatchet may live longer, to the Delawares —
Grand Fathers —
You are old & Childish wh. is ye. reason of yr. taking up ye.
Hatchet against the English, we now desire You to lay down that
Hatchet, otherwise You shall be scattered & Dispersed abl. ye.
World as heretofore.
Father —
As we have now opened our minds to you, & let you know
w*. we intended to say to the Shawanese & Delawares. We leave
1 Words italicized and in brackets crossed out in manuscript.
932 Sir William Johnson Papers
this Belt with You as we are but Children that You may act
therein as You may Judge best.
Here delivered the large Belt
Father —
As Many of the Mohicander Indians are gone from these parts
Some years ago to live along the Susquahana & its Branches, wh.
gives their freinds here much concern least they may be brought
in to do what is wrong. We therefore Father earnestly request
You will call them all from thence, to call Coleus Nimham in
particular & whoever likes to come with him.
A Black & White Belt
Father We have now ended —
Children
I have not only heard, but carefully taken down in writeing
what You have said, and shall only at present tell You that I am
glad to hear so good words from You, and that as soon as I have
considered well wl. You have now Said, I will call You and give
You an Answer. —
then ordered them a Dram pipes & Tobacco &ca. & parted.
Friday 1 1 th. — Mett again when I told them that on my return
home I would fully answer what they had said by letter, and ex-
change Belts. — then I gave them a present am's. to £ 71 . . 1 9 . .
in goods also £ 4 . .16. . Money to carry them home, for wh. they
returned many thanks and assured me of their resolution to
Stand by Us. —
Sunday 1 3th. — on my return from Alb?, found Severall Ogh-
quagoes here, come with Intelligence, & demanding some Amuni-
tion to defend themselves with, being threatened daily by those
Inds. at War with us. they spoke wth. a Belt and a String of
Wampum. —
Monday 1 4th. — the Bunts 2 Sons and Several other Onon-
dagaes arrived, after dineing they desired a Meeting with me, wh.
being granted, they mett in the Council Room, when Ka^adory
Spoke as follows.
Indian Uprising 933
'Brother —
Our Case is now verry hard, and quite different to what we
expected, from ye. many fair promises made to Us by ye Several
Generals Viz', that if we ye. Six Nations would join the English,
and should be lucky enough to conquer ye. French we should be
forever regarded, & be as happy a people as You. this we con-
sidered of, and readily agreed to Join & assist You as long
as the War should continue, wh. we have done. — and now as
there are fresh troubles arisen, We here present, do assure You
we never will let Slip that freindship subsisting between Us,
particularly as You are our own Brother. I Speak now the Senti-
ments of our Sachims, who are determined (Out of the regard
they have for their English Bretheren) to withstand the resent-
ment and any Attempts wh. the Ottawa Confederacy may make
agst. Us. I cant help acquainting (repeating to) you how hard
our Case is, who are attached to the English, we must daily hear
reflections cast by ye. Ill disposed & threats agst. those who wear the
English Badges, or Meddals, nevertheless we are fully determined
to Stand by our Bretheren, these our resolutions, you may depend
upon to be fixed so as not to be altered
Brother —
I Must now tell You that about 2 Years ago, as my Nephew
(a principal Warrior) with others of his Nation, were returning
from the Cherokee Country, He was killed by the Hurons. wh.
gives me so much concern that nothing but a proper revenge Can
ease my mind, or remove my Greif, having had so great a regard
for him. I have impatiently waited to See whether the Hurons
would make Satisfaction, but as they have not, I now look upon it
to have been done designedly, & wth. an intent to pick a quarrel. —
Brother —
as we are verry poorly Cloathed for the Season of the Year,
1 At this point on the copy, Vol. 7, there appears in the margin:
Prest.
Guy Johnson Esqr.
Depy. Agt. wth. ors
934 Sir William Johnson Papers
and agst. ye. approaching Snows & Cold, we hope you will take
pitty of us, & not let our Enemies laugh [when] should they see us
lye perished by the Road, and say these are Bretheren to the
English, we also entreat you will give us a little Amunition, hav-
ing none to hunt with, wh. is ye. reason of our poverty.
We hope you will consider our request, and also order our
Arms to be repaired. — so Ended —
Sir Wm. told them he would consider what they had said,
and then give them an Answer. —
Tuesday 15 th. — The Oghquagoes Came into the Council
Room and reced. ye. following Answer —
Bretheren —
I am oblidged to yr. Sachims for constantly acquainting me with
the Motions & designs of our Enemy, as also for Your care of
our People at Cherry Valley, & Scohare &ca. agsl. whom You
have hitherto prevented these Wicked Inds. making any Attempts.
— for wh., and yr. honest intentions, You say You have Raised
their Resentment agst. You, and dread ye. consequence. In this case
I would think it adviseable for your Settlement to move to Oneida
& Tuscarora, until this Storm blew over, wh. cannot last long,
besides as Oneida is much nearer to us than yr. psent place of
Abode, We can in time of danger come sooner to yr. Assistance —
A Belt —
Bretheren —
as I am sensible of yr. fidelity and firm Attachment to yr.
Bretheren ye. English, as well as of your dangerous Scituation on
yl. Ace". I comply in some measure with yr. request, and will give
you an order to my Son who will deliver You 401b of powder
Ball & Flints in proportion, wh. will enable You to make some
defence in case of an Attempt being made upon You. —
returned 3 Strings —
Sent 3 Strings to acquaint their People of Genr1. Amhersts being
recalled, & General Gages Succeeding him in the Command.
3 Strings —
Indian Uprising 935
Thursday Novbr. 24th. — four Onondagaes Arrived here, &
acquainted me by a Belt of Wampum that Severall Sachims &
Cheif Warriors of each of ye. Six Nations would be down here
in a few Days, in order to go to England —
A Belt —
Wednsday — 2 Tuscaroras from Oghquago arrived, & with
three Strings of Wampum acquainted Sir Wm. that 65 of their
Nation were as far as Cherry Valley on their way & would be
here in 2 or three days. —
3 Strings —
TO HENRY BARCLAY
L.S.1
Johnson Hall Nov. 24th. 1763.
Sir
The great hurry and multiplicity of business in which I have
been engaged must apologize for my hitherto neglect of answering
your favours of the 5th. and 27th. ult°. —
I am heartily Glad to find that the impression of the Prayer
Book is in some degree of forwardness, and hope a little time may
compleat that necessary work; I think in the Title it may not be
amiss to say Published for the use of the Indians of the Six
Nations &c by the Direction of Sr. W. J. &c. under the inspection
of yourself.
On due consideration of the insults which Joseph might receive
from the [ignorant]2 imprudent at New York which might dis-
please the Mohocks I have sent him with three other Lads from
Conajoharee to Mr. Bennet3 and shall send many more when the
Indians return from hunting, but Mr. Bennet complains that he is
in great want of a School House as Collier refuses him the use
1 In Massachusetts Historical Society. In hand of Guy Johnson.
2 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in manuscript.
3 Cornelius Bennet, missionary to Mohawks.
936 Sir William Johnson Papers
of the House, and is even disatisfied with his own residence therein.
Mr. Bennet can have no apprehensions concerning his Safety,
as the Mohocks, are, & I [believe] am certain will always be our
Friends and as the rest of the Nations so far as the Senecas are
hitherto well-disposed, to which the safety of this frontier, and that
of the communication to Ontario is both ways entirely owing.
You may be assured I shall offer Mr. Bennet all the assistance
& Encouragement in my power, and that I am
With great Esteem
Sir
Your Sincere Welwisher
& verry Humble Servant
Dr. Barclay WM- J°hnson
INDORSED:
Novb'. 24*. 1 763 —
Letter to Doctor Barclay
From Sr. Wm. Johnson
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Copy1
Niagara, 27 th of Novbr. 1763.
Sr:
I have rec'd youd Letter dated Novbr ye 3d, 1 763, wherein
you write me word to be more particular or circumstantial than
hitherto. You may depend I do everything to ye utmost of my
Power for my Employer, likewise for his Majesty's Service, ye
Troops is come back thath was going to Ditroit with ye Loss of
one hundred Men, ye got within less than one hundred miles was
cast away and lost there Ammunition was f orst to return for Want ;
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 202-3 ;
the original in the New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See
Johnson Calendar, p. 190.
Indian Uprising 937
ye had to I am inform'd, but eight Rounds a Man thath ye could
not proceed & have spoke to ye Officer Commanding, Major
Browning,1 about ye Indians coming in, he has give out an Order
thath ye must not fire upon any small Party of Indians upon no
Account & thath on their march in sight of ye Garrison he says if
ye should fall in with Fort Slhosser2 he cant be accountable what
happens as they are daily killing our People. In yr Letter you say
you do not understand what I mean by ye Voiseagamigate, Sr he
is ye chief Man North & West upon Lake Ontario and so far upon
Lake Erie as ye big River, which is sixty Miles from Little
Niagara, ye Troops goes fishing every Day and no body hurt. I
can't promise the do no mischief in there own Country but what
they do otherwise I can not tell.
Sr, I have wrote you word before of Major Wilkins taken
some Belts of Wampum from heare, he is come back, I have spoke
to Colonel Browning for to gett them. In ye next Letter I shall send
Word if Collonel has rec'd.
De Couagne
Sir ye Indians is arrved this Day from Detroit which you will ye
News more particular from them are ye Vessel sails emediately.
FROM THOMAS GAGE
Contemporary Copy5
New York, Nov. 30* 1763
Dear Sir
I have had the pleasure to receive your Letter of the 17th.
Ins1.4 by Mr. Gage;5 and as Sir Jeffry Amherst had sailed for
England, I opened yours to him, of the same date. Commodore
1 Major (Colonel) William Browning of the 46th regiment.
2 Fort Schlosser at Little Niagara.
3 In William L. Clements Library.
4 Johnson Papers, 4:238.
5 Ensign John Lewis Gage of the 31st regiment.
938 Sir William Johnson Papers
Loring1 has said nothing in his letter to Sir Jeff, concerning Mr.
Gage, but as you tell Me, he has employed him in collecting
Stores &ca, for the use of the Vessels on the lakes, I have given
him a Commission of Master and Commander; He tells me,
there is another Letter to Sir Jeffry from the Commodore not yet
arrived, wherein, he has recommended him, very strongly. I am
greatly oblidged to you, for the favour and protection you have
given this Gentleman, on my account & have only to hope his
future Conduct, will merit the goodness you have shown him —
I hope the party from Fort Stanwix to garrison your house, will
arrive before this reaches you, Should any difficulties arise in
that Matter, I shall immediately send the necessary orders for it.
I fear the Indians on Susquehana, have began their Operations
already, as there is advice of some Mischief having been done at a
place, I think they call, Wyoloosing; It gives me great pleasure
to find the Onandagas so staunch in their Friendship to Us.
You will see the Resolves of this Assembly, on Sir Jeffry
Amherst's requisition, for an Aid of Men for the ensuing year,
they desire the Eastern Governments may be applied to, for their
Quotas, but consent to raise 300 Men immediately, for the com-
munication between Albany & Oswego. I believe the German
flatts will be the most proper place to post them at.
I am &ca
Sir Wm. Johnson &c
indorsed:
Copy/.
To Sir Wm. Johnson —
New York Nov'. 30*. 1 763.
1 Captain (Commodore) Joshua Loring. See Loring to Johnson, Nov.
9, 1763, ante p. 919.
Indian Uprising 939
FROM AARON THE MOHAWK
Copy?
Fort Pitt, 1st Decemr. 1763.
Sir:
Having been sent Express by Major Gladwin2 from De Troite
to this Place, on arriving at Sandusky meeting with about 300
Shany and Delaware Indians, who ware at the same Time hold-
ing a great Counsill and by which I understood and was told
by them the breaking out of this Warr was occasioned by the
Seneca Indians who went about with a bloody Belt and Toma-
hawk to all the Nations engag'd in this Troubles. The Taways
also expressly told me that the Senecas were the Beginners of
this Warr, they also desired me (the old Men of the Delawar's
& Shanees) to acquaint you that if you desire, that they would
come down to you, and swear before you that this Warr was
begun by the Senecas. The old Men of the Wiandots Nation
want very much to see you, and if you desire they will come
immediately, you being pleas'd to let them know. I had the Mis-
fortune to be rob'd of 4000 of Wampom, A Tamihok and all
the Powder and Ball I had by the Delawar's, Shanees & the
Five Nations.
Sir, Remain with great Respect,
Your Obedient Humble Servant.
Aaron
1 Printed in Diary; of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 204; the
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 1 90.
2 Lieut. Col. Henry Gladwin, commandant at Detroit.
940 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JOHN DUNCAN
Schenectady Decr. 3d. 1763 —
Sir
I am honour'd with yours by Capt. Johnson,2 Am Sorry the
Indian lost the letter as the Ace', of the Sundrys was in it, which
I herewith Send a Coppy, it contain'd Nothing Else Material,
but My gratefull Acknowledgement of All Favours, & that my
good Endeavours Shall not be wanting at all times in owning the
Same & to continue the Same.
I Sent you three days ago a list of those I recomended for
officers to the Grendr. Compy, they are Such as will Ansr. the
Service when Occassion my require ; before I did this, I ask'd two
or three of the Dutch Viz1, one Cornk Jn°. Cuyler, but he refus'd,
beleive he depended on being a Ll. in the Troops, I Also Ask'd
Cap*. Yeatts3 the Surveyor who declin'd haveing no inclination
to be in the Malitia, Jn°. Cuyler was Also Ask'd by Jn°. Glen
his relation, but gave no Ansr. till he Spoke with Cap1. Campbell,4
having a notion of geting a Compy, to Ask Such folks & be
refus'd is disagreeable particularly when one is Sure & Certain
of better men & who can be depended on in doing there Duty;
I had Col°. Vanslyke5 here Yesterday after dinner who Agreed
My recomends. were good men, tho I dont doubt but he might
liked them better had they been More dutchify'd.
If you should think it right to wait the further determination
of the Dutch, Tice6 may be left out, tho a good man, & phaps
when Some of them See that they cannot all get into the Troop,
may then probably Accept being a Grendr, in the mean time am
1 In Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
2 Guy Johnson, captain and adjutant of the regiment of Albany militia.
3 Christopher (Stopphele) Yates.
4 Captain Daniel Campbell of the militia.
5 Lieutenant Colonel Jacobus Van Slyke (Van Slyck) of the militia.
6 Gilbert Tice.
Indian Uprising 941
not under the least Apprehension [of] in geting the Compy
Compleat from Volunteers
Col°. Vanslyke Says Cap1. Groots1 Company is Compleat with
Officers tho he was to look over the list Again: If you Still remain
in Oppinion to Recomend me, or mention me in any Shape, to
be Major, and as I have enter'd into the Spirit of the thing, will
not think it too much trouble to go to York, Where it may be
fix'd, I believe, at once by the Smallest line from you, this
might be the Easiest way to prevent Clamour or Solicitations, from
Such that I dare Say, were they to Argue the case, or even
Speak there own Sentiments unprejudiced Must Soon drop the
cause.
Am Sorry to hear, but more Supris'd at the Impudence of
that Rascal Klock,2 altho I need not, he never call'd here on com-
ing from York, & by a letter which Cap*. Johnson will Shew.
Judge he has met with a very cool reception, & Expect by this
very post, the Deed for the Inds. Sign'd by all below, Also a full
power for what I have done, & for the CompleaR the whole
Affair, which I long for, that Every one my know there own.
Cap1. Johnson Judges that we cannot very conveniently Settle
my Obligations to the Inds. Untill the Meeting with the Six
Nations be over by which time I will have Every thing compleat,
& will wait a line from him to call me ; Shou'd any dirficiency be
below, which am Sure cannot happen, I will by the Power given
me (tho only by letters) Compleat a Deed, being Determin'd
that Every word or part of my Engagement Shall be fulfill'd to
the Inds., and am Sure It is fully the Intention of all below. I
need not trouble you more at Present haveing the bearer to Ex-
1 Captain Nicholas Groot.
2 George (Ury) Klock.
942 Sir William Johnson Papers
plain my intentions, but that I am with the sincere Compliments
of all this Family
Dr. Sir
Your Most ObecK & ever
Oblig'd Houmble Serv'.
John Duncan1
INDORSED:2
Schenectady dcbr. 3d. 1 763
Cap*. Duncans Letter
TO THOMAS GAGE
Johnson Hall Decbr. 5ih. 1763
Sir
I was a few days ago favoured with Your Excellencys letter
of the 21st. Ult°.,4 which I delayed Answering until I had made
the best enquiry I was able into the Affair in Virginia. —
I have been averse to ye. giving passes to the Southward, but
the same was agreed upon between Mr. Atkins" the late Super-
intendant for the Southeren District, and myself, and I have
found it indispensably necessary to continue the practice for the
Satisfaction of the Indians in these parts, and the preventing
Mistakes as it is impossible to restrain them from prosecuting the
War against the Southeren Indians. —
The last passes I granted were to some Senecas long before
the commencement of Hostilities, Since w*\ I have not given any, &
whenever I mentioned any Number in a pass, it was the Number
1 Captain John Duncan of the 44th British regiment.
2 In Johnson's hand.
3 In William L. Clements Library ; draft in New York State Library
destroyed by fire. See Johnson Calendar, p. 191.
4 Ante p. 926.
5 Edmund Atkin.
Indian Uprising 943
of those represented by some Head Warrior of whose assistance
he was certain, which Partys were frequently augmented as they
passed thro the Indian Villages, and often greatly encreased by
ye. Westeren Nations who are equally Sanguine in that War. —
As the Indians were expected here for some Days, I therefore
waited their arrival, in order to enquire into the particulars of the
Affair transmitted to You by MT. Blair1 concerning which I have
been Just now informed by the Tuscaroras that a party of Indians
for the most part Senecas on their return lately from the Cherokee
Country had a Skirmish with some English about the Frontiers
of Virginia, and were afterwards attacked at their Encampment
by a Considerable body who killed Several of them, (and two
Cherokee Prisoners they had taken, with 4 Scalps in their Coun-
try) and oblidged the rest to retire, which the Senecas had told
to some of the Tuscaroras in passing by one of their Villages on
the Susquahana River, and therefore I am apt to think they were
the Same with those mentioned in the letter from Mr. Blair. —
That those People who are now become our Enemies, should
readily commit acts of Hostility, is not at all surpriseing to me.
but I am heartily glad to find that the People of Virginia have
by the public spirited behaviour of their Troops obtained some
Satisfaction for the depredations committed on their Frontiers,
wh. however small, will be much thought on by Indians who never
like to suffer the least loss, & conceive a high Idea of People who
will pursue & attack them in their own way, & are successfull
in their enterprizes. — I am informed that the principal reason
for the 5 Nations comeing down at this time, was to acquaint me
wth. their resolutions of Sending Deputys from each Nation to
England, and with the cause thereof, but from what I have since
heard, it is likely they have laid aside their intentions for a time. —
There are now here about 1 20 Indians of Several Nations but
cheifly from Tuscarora, and the branches of Susquahana &ca.
who have made the Strongest assurances of their attachment to
the English, and professed their readiness to give the earliest
1 John Blair, president of the Council of Virginia.
944 Sir William Johnson Papers
intelligence of the Enemys designs, and to accompany our Troops
agst. them when required; These sentiments I am endeavouring
to cherish by all means in my power, and to promote by favours
& notice, than which nothing can be more effectual for securing
the interest of a People who according to their ideas have sufficient
motives to induce them to Join our Enemies, who are daily re-
turning with English Spoils, and who even threaten them for the
attachment they have Hitherto manifested for us. — There are
besides smaller Partys consisting of Chifs & Warriors from all
the freindly Nations daily resorting hither, & repeating the like
assurances, which, as they must be attended with a considerable
expence, requires my being favoured with your sentiments thereon,
and whether You think it necessary to preserve and cultivate this
good understanding amongst them subject to such expence, for
the imediate security of this Frontier & communication, and their
future encouragement to assist our Troops when their attendance
shall be demanded. —
Your directions on these Heads (which were touched upon
in my last letter) will be highly necessary to prevent my em-
barking in any expence which may be disaproved of, as well as
to enable me to take such imediate Steps as may be necessary
for the accomplishment of my design, and for rendering the
freindly Nations timely usefull to the operations of the ensueing
Year. —
I have the honour to be with the greatest
Respect —
Sir
Your Excellencys
Most Obedient and
Most Humble Servant
His Excellency WM. JOHNSON
The Honb,e. Major Genrl. Gage —
INDORSED :
Sr. Wm. Johnson Dec'. 5th. 1 763.
received Decr. 1 9lh.
Ansd. Decr. 26th.
Indian Uprising 945
JOURNAL OF INDIAN CONGRESS
A. D.1
[Johnson Hall, Dec 2-5, 1763]
Friday Decbr. 2d. — 5 Senecas from Kanadassegey2 arrived
here, and told Sir Wm. that there were a great many from their
Town on their way hither, and that they were all of yl. Town
and Kanadaraggo peaceably inclined, and would not Join ye.
Chenussios in the War agst. ye. English on any Ace". —
Saturday — Mightaham Cheif wth. 7 Mohicanders from
Chughnot3 Arrived, and after getting provs., went to their En-
campment. (Michtagh here wants ans. of his note a Minissink
Cheif)
D°. Die — Karaghiiagey from Ganughsaragey wtJl. four More
arrived, got provs. & Encamped. —
Monday Decbr. 5th. — a Number of ye. Tuscaroras from
Oghquago come into ye. Council Room, then their Speaker Aneus
alias Anigut or Sadahantvonota, begun with 3 Strings of Wam-
pum, & condoled the many losses lately sustained by their
Bretheren the English, after their usual manner. —
3 Strings —
Here the Speaker took 3 Strings of Wampum from the Onei-
daes liveing at Oghquago, and Spoke with them wl. they desired
[ ]
Brother —
in consequence of the Belt Sent to Us some time ago [desiring
there]4 by that we would keep a good lookout, & acquaint you
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. Copy in Indian
Records, Vol. 7.
2 Kanadesaga, a Seneca castle.
3 Chugnut in Broome county opposite Binghamton, on the Susquehanna
River. See Beauchamp, Aboriginal Place Names in Nere York, P- 27.
4 Words in brackets, illegible in defaced portion of manuscript, are
supplied by the copy in Indian Records, Vol. 7.
946 Sir William Johnson Papers
with all the [Motions] of the Enemy, we accordingly on receiving
it brought it to, [and left it with the] Otseningo Inds. chargeing
them to be watchfull & let us have everry [thing which came to]
their knowledge. We are in 3 days time to Send to Otseningo &
enquire if any late news reached their Ears, then shall Sett of
with it to You, this is ye. reason we dont now Accompany our
Bretheren the Tuscaroras wh. we hope you will not take amiss. —
A Belt of 3 Strings
Brother —
We of the Tuscaroras Nation who live near Oghquago do
assure You that we are so sensible of the old Agreement first made
between our Forefathers & Yours, & the many benefits ariseing
therefrom Spiritual as well as temporal, that we are firmly re-
solved to abide inviolably thereby and are heartily Sorry to See
one of the five Nations namely the Chenussios or Senefyas guilty
of a Breach of that covenant [n>ch. they so solemnly entered into
and a/so]1 thereof, as also yl. foolish Nation ye. Delawares. —
A Belt representing 5 Nations
BLi wth. ye. road of Peace thro it —
rother — J
In the late War with the French You called on us As Bretheren
to Join you against that proud Nation (who then Said none
were able for them) we accordingly and agreable to ye. Covenant
Between Us Joined You and wth. ye. Blessing of God We Suc-
ceeded, & Saw his pride humbled. — and as there are some
troublesome and 111 disposed Nations of Indians namely the
Delarvares & Chenussios now rose in Arms against You, We are
come to Assure You of our determined resolution, taken on the
most serious deliberation of our Sachims, Cheifs, Warriors,
Women & even Children, to Join [you] & assist You in bringing
them to reason, by a proper punishment and now we are at your
disposal. — . _
A large white belt I I Kows —
A Black Belt from the Cheif Women to ye.
Sachims & Warriors on their declareing their
resolutions. —
1 Words italicized and in brackets are crossed out in the manuscript.
Indian Uprising 947
Brethren, Freinds & Relations —
We the Women of Tuscarora Town do now with the utmost
pleasure return You thanks for, and highly commend the part
you have determined to act in the present Quarrel, or War be-
tween [between] these Mad Nations of Inds. & our Bretheren
the English, and as it is what we wished You to do, we assure
you, that it is to us as a healing balsam to a wounded Person, our
Minds having for some time past been much troubled for our
Bretherens losses, which we doubt not will end, on your, & some
others acting the Manly part wh. we most earnestly recommend
to You, & we will afford You all the Assistance in ye. power of
Women towards so good an End. —
A Black Belt 8 Rows —
Bretheren, Freinds, & Relations —
We have now only to recommend to You all a Valliant &
Steady conduct in Action, as well as in Council, and we shall not
fail in yr. absence, or in case of Death, to instill ye. principles you
are now to act upon into the minds of your Children, so that
they may always follow yr. Example, and when they grow up,
and thereby merit their Bretherens Good Will. — these you will
acquaint our Brother W arraghiiagey are the real Sentiments of
his true, tho poor Sisters of Tuscarora. —
A White Belt wth. black Strokes
8 Rows —
The Sachims now Speak to Sir Wm. Johnson
Brother —
We haveing now made known to You our fixed resolutions, wh.
you may depend upon, let what will be our fate, have only to
request, that you will consider & take pitty of our present poverty,
occasioned by the evil disposition of those Inds. who are now at
War with you, and who (by reason of our attachment to you)
threaten us daily, in so much that our Young Men are oblidged
to neglect Hunting, & Stay at Home to protect our Old, & Young,
who otherwise must lye at their mercy. We are in all Men,
948 Sir William Johnson Papers
Women, & Children above 8 years old one Hundred Fighting
Men 40 —
A White Belt wth. Black Strokes
8 Rows —
Brother —
As it is customary among Us on the Death of a Sachim to
fill his place as soon as convenient, We now take this opportunity
in your presence, of appointing this Lad whose name is Cornel [ius]
in the room of SerriwhananaghsX) who was our Cheif Sachim
and hope it will meet your Approbation. —
A Belt — 6 Rows —
Mightaham1 a Mohickander Cheif, with 7 of that Nation
desired a Conference when the former addressed Sir William
Brother Warraghiyagey —
I am sent by our Chiefs to acquaint you that agreable to your
desire at the Commencement of Hostilities we removed to Chugh-
not2 where we now reside in order to be out of the way of your
Enemies, & that those of our people at Wyaloosin will shortly
Joyn us — and we [beg leave] are to assure you that we are,
and shall always remain firm Friends to the English, & abide by
the Engagements we have entred into, as well as be ready to
give you all the assistance in our power against your Enemies.
[P.M.]
3 Strings
1 From this point the manuscript is in Guy Johnson's hand. The
continuation of the record of this conference is to be found in another
document, post p. 957.
2 Chugnut in Broome County opposite Binghamton on the Susquehanna
River.
Indian Uprising 949
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Copy1
Fort George New York Dec' 7 th 1763.
Dear Sir
Inclosed you have blank Warrants & Commissions for the
officers who are to inlist & Command two Companies of fifty
Men each for the Defence of Schohary & Cherry Valley, the
Warrant to Hendrick Ten Eyck only is filled up, which his
Father a Member of the Assembly for your County obtained of
me. Please to fill up the other Warrants & Commissions with the
names of such Persons as you shall think most proper for this
service, informing me as soon as may be of their names & the
dates of their Warrants & Commissions which are likewise left
blank for you to insert.
After the men are raised they are directed by the Warrant to
be mustered by such Persons as you shall think most proper for this
service, informing me as soon as may be of their names & the
dates of their Warrants & Commissions which are likewise left
blank for you to insert.
After the men are raised they are directed by the Warrant to
be mustered by such Person or Persons as you shall appoint for
that purpose. The Commissions are not to be filled up or delivered
till after the Companies are severally complete & mustered, & the
Muster Rolls transmitted to me as soon afterwards as possible.
Please likewise to give the Captains severally such orders as
you shall think most proper for the defence of those two parts of
the county which they are hereby directed to obey in the same
manner as from myself.
I am so much hurried with Assembly Affairs & in Writing my
Letters by the Packett that I hope you will excuse my writing
nothing more particularly at this time. You may observe in the
Assembly's Address some insinuation of misconduct in the Indian
Affairs. I know not what is intended by it. I shall be glad to be
informed by you if you can. I am with great Esteem & affection Sir.
1 Printed in Collections of Nerv York Historical Society, 1876, Colden
Papers, pp. 256-57.
950 Sir William Johnson Papers
FROM JOHN STUART
Copy1
Charles Town, 10th December, I763.2
Sir:
I am now to acknowledge the receipt of both your Favors of
24th July and 2d September,3 which my being at the Congress4
with the Indians in this District prevented my receiving and an-
swering sooner. I have a grateful Sense of your polite and friendly
Expressions, and shall cheerfully embrace every Opportunity of
cultivating a Correspondence with, and rendering you any agree-
able Service. I am sincerely sorry for the Rupture with the Indians
in your Department, which is attended with so much Bloodshed
and Desolation and necessarily with so much Trouble to you.
Immediately after the Receipt of your last Letter, I wrote to
the Cherokee Nation, to know if they would send some Parties
against the Northern Indians according to their Proposal to me
at the Congress. As soon as I receive an Answer I shall com-
municate it to you. Some Officers of the Independent Companies
in this Province, who are on the Point of being reduced, have
offered to accompany such Cherokees as can be prevailed upon
to go and act jointly with his Majesty's Forces against the North-
ern Tribes. It would be a delicate Point to propose any thing of
this Nature to the Creeks at this Juncture, when they are apt to
construe every Proposal as containing some hidden Design; the
Impressions left on their Minds by the French, and their Jealousy
on account of the late Cession of Florida and Louisiana, not be-
ing as yet totally effaced.
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 205-8;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 193.
2 Received Feb. 1 5, 1 764.
3 See Johnson Calendar, p. 1 77, for letter of Sept. 2. That of July 24
not mentioned.
4 A congress at Augusta, Ga. conducted on November 1 0th, 1 763 with
the Indian Nations of the south by John Stuart and four southern
governors.
Indian Uprising 951
The Chactaivs have but newly entered into the Covenant of
Friendship with us. Their Country is a vast Distance, I shall
endeavor as soon as possible to inform myself of their Disposition
and the Practicability of engaging them to send Parties as you
propose.
The Chickasaws are perpetually at War with the Northern
Indians, but then they only act defensively, being reduced to
450 Men at most, and surrounded by great Nations with whom
they never are upon Terms of sincere Friendship, for which
Reason they dare not weaken themselves by sending our strong
Parties, so far as they are able their Friendship and Attachment
to us may be depended upon.
The Catatvbas was willing and brave, but reduced by War
and Sickness to 60 or 70 Gunmen. The Northern Indians infested
them all last Summer, killed and carried off several of them.
This may be depended on that I shall take every Measure to
induce Parties from the Northern Nations within my Depart-
ment to go and act jointly with his Majesty's Troops employed
against the Nations at War with us, and shall be extreamly glad
to hear from you and receive the General's Instructions relative to
my Conduct in this Matter.
Our Conferences at the late Congress ended with the most
friendly Appearance. The Indians of every Nation went away
well satisfied, and made the strongest Professions of Attachment
to the British Interest. They are all appraised of the War be-
tween the Northern Indians and us, but know nothing of the
particular Events.
A minute Journal of the Proceedings at the Congress is now
in the Press. As soon I can be furnished with a Copy for you I
shall send it.
The Tascaroras inhabit a Tract of 10,000 Acres of Land
laid out for them in North Carolina. I have wrote to Governor
Dobbs1 for a particular Account of them and of their Situation
with respect to Debts or whatever else may hinder or retard their
1 Governor Arthur Dobbs.
952 Sir William Johnson Papers
going to join their People. Governor Dobbs told me when at the
Congress, that they consisted of about one hundred Men able
to bear Arms, Women and Children in Proportion.
I am now to inform you, that on my return from Augusta, I
received a Letter from the Right Honb,e the Lords of Trade
declaratory of His Majesty's Orders, that the Agents for Indian
Affairs should correspond with their Lordships in all Matters
regarding their Departments, and should transmit them all such
Information as they should require. In Consequence they have
required from me a regular and constant Correspondence upon
those Points. Their Lordships have likewise directed me to trans-
mit to them as soon as possible, a full and particular Report of
the State of Indian Affairs within this Department, and an accurate
Description of the several Nations of Indians, their different In-
terests, Claims and Dispositions and what will in my Judgment
be a proper Plan for the future Management and Direction of
these important Interests.
The Task imposed upon us I consider as arduous and what
requires very mature Consideration, on which I have not as yet
been able to turn my Thoughts, having a multiplicity of Affairs
to settle in consequence of the late Congress, it will give me the
greatest Pleasure to coincide with you in Opinion, but to form
a general Plan by which a Trade to the Indian Countries may
be at the same Time well regulated and free to all his Majesty's
Subjects, is not very easy. It will give me great Pleasure to hear
from you soon, being with most sincere Regard.
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant
John Stuart1
John Stuart, superintendent of Indian Affairs in the southern department.
Indian Uprising 953
FROM THOMAS GAGE
New York, Deer. f2* U63.
Dear Sir
I am much obliged to you for your favor of the 23d. of Nov'.,2
which I received here on the 3d. Inst, and must in general coincide
with your Sentiments concerning the Methods you propose for
the Management of the Indians in the present Posture of our
Indian Affairs, as well as in the Difficultys you foresee would
arise in prevailing on any of the tribes to join us in making war
on the Senecas. It's well if they could be brought to join us
Sincerely and heartily against the Western Indians, or the Shaw-
nese & Delawares. Whether They could be brought to act in
this manner against our Enemys, you must undoubtedly be a more
competent Judge than myself; Your Experience & Knowledge
of the different Interests, Jealousys & Dispositions of the Several
Nations, in respect of one another, can only decide whether they
can be depended upon or not.
I am sensible that a Corps of Indians, Sincerely disposed to
act in Conjunction with His Majesty's Regular Forces, or Pro-
vincials, will be eminent Service in any Expedition in this Coun-
try ; particularly in the War we are now engaged in ; They know
the woods, Dwellings, & Hunting Grounds of every Nation;
They can lead us to Them, & Secure us from Surprize which the
Troops know, & will give them a Confidence.
It is right at all Times to treat the Indians on the Principles
of Equity Moderation, and Kindness, to give them occasionally
Some small Presents, but not to become their Tributarys, by
giving them a Profusion of Presents, whenever they chuse to be
1 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 9. A contemporary
copy, with slight variations, is in the Gage Papers, William L. Clements
Library.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:251-54.
954 Sir William Johnson Papers
angry, for not having them. This will never be the means of procur-
ing a Safe and lasting Peace ; for whenever they wanted Presents,
Some Nation or other would always be Stirred up to commence
a War, I would be their Friend in Time of Need, but not become
their Dupe. And whenever they did us a Signal Service, I would
never fail to reward them as they deserved.
It is proposed to have a large Body of Troops in the Field,
if the Provinces will consent, the Next Spring; and doubtless
I should be glad of a Corps of Faithful Indians to join them. If
you think such a Corps can be got, whom we can trust in the
operations to be carried on I shall hereafter write to you more
fully on the Subject.
The Province of New York is raising 300 Men; as soon as
the Companys are compleated, I propose they shall March up
to the German Flatts for the Winter.
I have wrote to Colonel Bradstreet to Supply you with the
Provisions you have demanded.
I am with great Regard & Esteem
Dear Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble Servant,
Thos. Gage
SR. WM. Johnson, Bar*.
INDORSED :
New York Dec'. 12* 1763
From Major General Gage
about employing Indians next
Campaign
Record^. Vol. 9 - 56
Indian Uprising 955
FROM JEAN BAPTISTE DE COUAGNE
Copy1
Translation
Niagara, 15th X* 1763.
Sir:
Since my last which I had the Honor of writing to you, by
which I have mentioned the Accident which happened to Major
Wilkins Party which has retreated, Major Rogers arrived with
his Corps and two Mohawks, Daniel and Jacob, two Days after.
The Commandant has sent the Man named Jacob with a
Ranger to Detroit, and Daniel has decided to join the Party re-
turning with Major Rogers, to rejoin you, and who can relate
to you all that has happened in these Parts, as well as what has
become of the other Mohawk. He has told me that the Man
named Ouapacamigatte2 a Mississague had a Passport from
the Commandant at Detroit to come hither with a Message and
I believe it would be apropos if the Commandant would consent
that I should send him with one or two others to speak with you
upon this Business. I believe that there is not here this Winter
any Indian whom I could send for some Time. And I remember
nothing further of which to appraise you. There are Parties
crossing every Day to the other Side of the River upon the Lands
of the Mississagaes but they have not returned with any Scalps.
The Man named Rossin . . . 3 a Seneca of whom you speak
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, pp. 208-9 ;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 191, where date is given as December 5.
2 Spelled Ouaxacamigatte in Johnson Calendar.
3 In Johnson Calendar, p. 191, this letter is said to mention Silverel
(Silverheels), the Seneca.
956 Sir William Johnson Papers
in your Letter has not arrived. I have spoken to his two Sisters
about him in a way that has flattered them much.
I have the honor to be with profound Respct
Sir, Your very humble and much
obliged Servant,
De Couagne
It is impossible at this Moment to write to you in English, as every
body is engaged, and I can not find a Secretary.
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Jl ■ Li. O.
Fort George Dec' 19lh 1763
Dear Sir
I have your favour of the 5th of this month2 & I am glad to
hear from you of the good Disposition of the Indians. No doubt
you are informed of what is passed at Detroit & Niagara. The
want of Ammunition & the necessity of their Hunting at the season
made the Indeans at Detroit sue for Peace has not the same want
put the five Nations into better humour than they were I am
therefor of Opinion that the Indians cannot be provided too
cautiously with Ammunition at this time. They should know &
feel that they cannot live without us There is a necessity of make-
ing an example of the Genessios by chastising of them otherwise
we shall never have a safe peace. Nothing but fear can restrain
the fierce cruel & rapacious spirit of the Indians & if they pass
with impunity, after the Barbarous murders they have committed
at this time without provocation, the effects of this spirit will upon
every occasion break out a new. If our friend Indians be not
cautiously furnished with ammunition they will from their store
1 In Ayer Collection, Newberry Library, Chicago, 111. Copy printed
in Nen> York Historical Society Collections 1876. Colden Papers,
pp. 267-68.
2 Johnson Papers, 4:261-63.
Indian Uprising 957
furnish the Enemy & Our traders cannot be too carefully lookt
after for this purpose
If you Judge from the present desposition of the Indians that
there is no need of any guard at Schohory & Cherry valley you
may save the province this expence by putting a stop to the en-
listing of men for the defence of these two places & certainly
the Province ought not to be put to any unnecessary expence.
I communicated your former letter (for putting the Militia on
a footing to make them more usefull) to the Assembly at their
first meeting they are now ready to break up so that it would be
to no purpose to lay any thing before them at this time.
The Commisseons1 you desire shall be sent by the next post.
When I do any thing which pleases you it gives great pleasure
to my self in doing it for I am with great sincerity & esteem
Sir
You most obedient &
Honourable
Sir William Johnson Bar1
affectionate humble servant
Cadwallader Colden
JOURNAL OF INDIAN CONGRESS
Copy
[Johnson Hall Dec. 5-22, 1763]
Decr. 5th. P.M. Sir William, after Returning to the Ceremony
of Condolance with 3 Strings, answered the Tuscaroras, as
follows.
Present Guy Johnson Esqr.
Depy. Agl. with Ors.
Brethren of Tuscarora. —
I am much obliged to my Brethren, the Oneidas living at
1 Commissions for officers in the militia.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7. This copy continues
the record from the autographed document, ante p. 945.
958 Sir William Johnson Papers
Oghquago, for the notice they have taken of my Belt, and the
Promises they make of being watchful, and communicative of
every thing material, which comes to their Knowledge, — a
Continuance of such good Behavior cannot be too much recom-
mended by me, or observed by them; I am therefore no wise
disatisfied that they have not attended you hither.
3 Strings —
Brethren —
It gives me Pleasure to find that you of the Tuscarora Nation
are so sensible of the old Agreement entered into by our Fore-
fathers, and profess your Resolutions of abiding thereby, as well
as your Sorrow for the Breach thereof in the Conduct of the
Senecas, Delawares, &c. — None but a foolish People could
have sacrificed the Advantages resulting from Peace, by begin-
ning a causeless Quarrel with their Brethren. —
A Belt —
Brethren —
I am not insensible of the friendly Assistance you afforded
your Brethren the English during the War with the French whom
they subdued, nor of the friendly Offers you now make, and I
trust the same Successes which have hitherto attended our Joint
Endeavors agsl. the powerful Efforts of both French, and Indians,
will certainly attend us now against a few troublesome People
who have perfidiously violated the most solemn Treaties, — con-
tinue then these faithful and just Resolutions, and be ready as true
Allies to give us your Assistance whenever it shall be found
necessary.
A Belt. —
Brethren —
I return my most hearty Thanks to your chief Women, for the
Zeal they have manifested, and the satisfaction they express at
your friendly Proposals of Assistance, and they may always be
assured that I shall preserve the most friendly Sentiments towards
them for their good Behavior, and wise Exhortations to you on
this Occasion. — A Belt.
Indian Uprising 959
Brethren —
The laudable Resolutions of your Women merit the highest
Notice, and Regard. — I have no doubt of their Sincerity, and
therefore recommend it to them to continue to Instill into the minds
of their Children the Sentiments of Bravery, and Attachment to
the English, so conspicuous in their Parents. —
A Belt. —
Brethren the Sachims —
In consequence of the good Conduct you have hitherto mani-
fested, and of your friendly Protestations now made; I have
taken your Case into Consideration, and shall deliver you a
Portion of his Majesties Bounty for the Relief of your present
Necessities; and I exhort you to a due Observation of your Prom-
ises, and a Continuance of that Behavior, which alone must Entitle
you to the further Notice of his Majesty. —
A Belt. —
Brethren —
I approve of your Appointment of Cornelius, as a Sachim in
the Room of Serriivhananaghsy, who was your Chief, and
Heartily wish he may follow the Footsteps in all praise worthy
Actions, as well as in a firm Attachment to the British Interest,
so essential to the Happiness of your Nation. —
A Belt. —
Sir William at the same time answered the
Mohicfyanders as follows — viz1.
Brethren —
I am glad to see you here, and thank your Chiefs for sending
you to acquaint me of your Removal to Chughnot, which I greatly
approve of, and I heartily thank you for the Friendship you ex-
press, and the Promises now made, which I hope are sincere.
You all see that the foolish bad People who are now our Enemies,
have broken the Covenant Chain, without any reason, and made
us quarrel with them, and as this Behavior of theirs is highly dis-
agreeable to many of your People in the other Provinces, as well
960 Sir William Johnson Papers
as to sev1. Nations of Indians, I must recommend it to your People
at Chughnot to be true to their Words, and ready to assist their
Brethren the English agreeable to their Engagements, by which
it was promised, that whenever either of us were struck, all should
arise and fall upon the Enemy. Remember this always, and con-
sider that it is for your Interest to be friends to the English who
are many, and strong, and who will never forget those who
behave well & deserve their Notice. —
A Belt.
A Copy of the foregoing answer was delivered
to the Indians for the Information of their
People at Home. —
Then delivered out the Present. — After which the
Chief of the Mohic^anders addressed Sir Wm. —
Brother Warraghijagey. —
We return you many thanks for the Present you have delivered
us, as also for the Speech which you have given us in Charge
to be communicated to our People at home, and You may be
assured we shall take Care to Notice what you have said, and
that if I am living in the Spring, I shall then attend you with
my Party. — then Parted —
December 7th. — David1 with five Schohare Indians arrived
here & on the following day spoke to Sir William as follows. —
Brother —
We are in consequence of the Message sent lately by me,
now come to acquaint you that, after we had all considered of
your Proposal we came to the following Resolution, viz1, that
in case the Oghquagoes &c should remove from where they live,
and settle at either of the Mohawk Castles during the War, we
will do the same. —
2 Strings Returned
1 A Schoharie chief.
Indian Uprising 961
Brother —
Bart. Vroman1 having heard our Resolution of leaving our
Settlement at Scohare, told us he would pay us for the Lands
we live on, in ready money, and desired to have the Preference,
which we are willing to give him if you approve of it. —
To which Sir William answered. —
Brethren of Scohare —
I am glad to find you so ready to comply with my desire, as
it is entirely calculated for your own Interest, and when it is proper
for you to move, you shall know it from me. in the mean time I
woud have you do nothing as to your Lands before I see Bart.
Vroman, and the Writings for your Lands at Scohare, then I shall
tell you what is proper to be done. — Let two or three of your
chief People be present when Vroman comes, that you may hear
what is said on that Occasion, which will be a means of prevent-
ing any Disputes, or Mistakes amongst your selves. —
3 Strings of Wampum. —
December 1 2th. —
— On this day 1 8 Senecas, and 23 Onondagas arrived here,
and after a long Compliment made to Sir William, they told him
that several of their People were on their way hither, and that
the Oneidas, and Tuscaroras would be here to Morrow. — After
getting Provisions, Pipes, and Tobacco &c they went to their
Encampment. — On Parting, Sir William desired Bunt chief of
Onondaga, with a few more of their Chiefs to come in the Eve-
ning, and somoak a Pipe with him, which they promised. — Being
met according to Promise they told Sir William that the Cayugas
had prevailed on the Chenussios to be quiet, and that they were
now come down in order to declare their Sentiments. — Silver
Heels coming into the Room at the time seemed a good deal dis-
pleased at their being in private, before they had spoke in publick,
and told them that he believed they were only telling Untruths.
He then asked Sir William whether they had told him that some
of the Cayugas, and 4 Onondagas were gone to War against the
1 Barent Vrooman.
962 Sir William Johnson Papers
English, being answered, they had not as yet, — he then assured
him it was so, and that they killed four English, and took one
Prisoner, whose life the Sachims took great Pains to save after
they had brought him into their Castle, that this Excursion of
theirs was made in order to revenge the Death of a Cayuga Named
Thennewhannega, who was shot in Albany in 1 759, for the
Murder of John IVKMickel,1 that the Party belonged to the
Negroe, or Skanarady, a Cayuga Chief, who has been a firm
friend to the English, and that they lost one Man named Kaherodo
in that affair near John Harris's2 on the Susquahannah. — Silver
Heels further said that the Party of Chenussios who had lately
killed nine Men, and took an Officer, and Serjeant Prisoner,
consisted of 23 Men, and that they had none either killed, or
wounded. — that said Party brought away 1 4 Oxen, — that
the Party which attacked the Boats, Gardiners Party &c — were
not Chenussios, — neither do they know of it. —
14th. — The Six Nations (except the Oneidas who did not
yet arrive) came into the Council Room and desired a Meeting
with Sir William, which being granted, the Onondaga Speaker
Teyawarunta in the Name of the whole Confederacy desired to
know from Sir William, what bad News he had received last
night, wch. made him angry. —
To this Sir Wm. answered that some news he had Received
the Evening before by Cap*. Staronbergh3 from Scohare viz1. —
that some Delawares had lately been at that Settlement, & al-
though kindly treated by the Inhabitants, they did, on their going
away, not only behave ill, but also made use of very menacing
Expressions, which alarmed the People there so much, that they
were under a necessity of acquainting him thereof, and Receiving
his Orders thereon, with Promises of assistance, if necessary. —
Sir William further told the Indians that if any Delawares or
others would attempt the Destruction of that, or any other
1 A trader murdered near Fort Stanwix.
2 Present site of Harrisburg, Pa.
3 Captain Jacob Sternberger.
Indian Uprising 963
Settlement in these Parts, he woud imediately with the Militia fall
upon them, and never forgive them till he had obtained full
Satisfaction, and in such Case would have an Opportunity of
trying who were his Indian friends. —
On which the Speaker assured Sir William that they the Onon-
dagas had, a month ago, sent Teyaquaende a Chief Warrior of
Otseningo,1 when at a Meeting there, to desire the Delawares to
desist, and remove up the River Susquehannah to Chughnot,
which they then promised to do, that they are now informed by
some of their Hunters come from that Quarter that the River
Indians are accordingly moving to Chughnot, and all very
quiet, and that they did not hear of any Attempts intented to be
made by the Delawares, or others, on any of our Settlements. —
Then the Speaker desired to know of the rest whether all
were assembled: On the Tuscarora Chief's letting him know
that Conoquieson, chief of Oneida was not yet arrived, the Speaker
desired that they might be all made acquainted with his Arrival,
so that they might meet, and hear what the Chenussios had to
say, which was promised, and then they broke up. —
Wednesday Evening — Hie Chiefs of the Chenussios with
three Strings of Wampum addressed Sir Wm. as follows —
Brother —
We present are deputed by the whole Nation to wait upon
you, and let you know the Resolution of our People, which we
shall do tomorrow; and as there are some foolish idle People
amongst us who may Report to you things that are not true,
we beg by these Strings of Wampum that you will pay no Regard
to any thing you hear from any but us, who know the Sentiments
of our Nation, and are purposely sent to make them known to
you. —
3 Strings —
Sir William in answer told them he despised Tatters, and
would take no Notice of what any would say, but those Sachims
1 Otsiningo, Chenango, now Binghamton, N. Y.
Depy. Agls.
Interp™.
964 Sir William Johnson Papers
who had the Sentiments of their Nation in Charge to him;
then with three Strings of Wampum desired they would act
the same Part. — o o .
j otrings. —
December 15th. The Six Nations sent to let Sir William know
that they were ready to speak with him, being met Serrehoana,1
a Chenussio speaker addressed Sir Wm. as follows. —
Present
Sir Wm. Johnson Bar1.
Cap*. Dan1. Claus
Lieu*. Guy Johnson
John Butler Esqr,
William Printup
Brother Gorah Warraghijagey. —
We the Deputies from Chenussio are sent to let you know that
your several Messages sent us since the Commencement of Hos-
tilities, particularly one, sent by Silver Heels, has had so great
weight with us, that all our Sachims, Chiefs, and Warriors have
paid the greatest Regard thereto, and have in Consequence thereof
agreed to drop further Hostilities, and lay hold of the Chain of
Friendship with the rest of the Confederacy, so that we may again
behold the Light, and our Brethren with Satisfaction, provided
you are well inclined, & disposed to forgive what is past, in that
Case, we shall shortly after our Return home, come down and
Confirm what we now say. — a ni.
Brother —
The real Cause of the unlucky Quarrel between us, has been
chiefly owing to the Delawares, who being greatly concerned for
their former Loss, at Kittanning,2 and for the Death of one of their
1 Seriohana, a Seneca chief.
2 Kittaning in Armstrong County, Pa. The Delaware Indian name
Kittanning means "at the Great River," great river being the equivalent
of the Iroquois word Ohio. Kittanning Indian Town was destroyed in
September, 1 756, by Colonel John Armstrong's command of three
hundred troops. See Hanna, The Wilderness Trail, 1 :290.
Indian Uprising 965
Chiefs, sent a very large Belt to the three Nations at Detroit,
to persuade them to fall upon you, which Nations, on receiving
the same, put it under their Feet to be considered upon, at
leisure. — Sometime after, the three Nations called their Con-
federacy together, and laid the Belt before them, when Pondiac
told them that, they all knew the Meaning of the Belt, and that
he was determined to help his Nephews in procuring Revenge,
for which purpose he would attack Detroit within three days;
and lest any of them should make the Six Nations acquainted with
their Resolutions, he told them that, he was determined not to
listen to any news from that Quarter, as he was resolved to go
on, and desired the Wiandots to give him an immediate answer,
but finding that they were resolved first to return home, and Con-
sult their People thereon, he insisted on their returning with an
answer in two days, otherwise they would come too late. —
All that night, and two days following the Wiandots remained
in Council, and on the third day in the Morning, having at
length resolved to remain neuter in the War, they went to com-
municate their Resolutions, but found they came too late, as the
Ottarvas had already began to do mischief, and soon after, the
Powtewatamies came to the Wiandots, and told them that they
were to die the next Morning, unless they Joined the Ottawas,
which at last they were determined to do in order to save their
Lives, and advised the Wiandots to Join in the War. This was
confirmed by a Frenchman, and notwithstanding the Young War-
riors of the Wiandots, were for attacking the Ottarvas, yet the
Sachims were at length induced to make them alter their Opinion,
and Join the OttaTvas. —
After this the Ottawas sent a Scalp, and Belt of Wampum
to Kanarpagun,1 where some of the Six Nations resided, who
were Requested to take it into Consideration, whether they should
not Join with the rest. This set some of our People upon Mischief,
and they accordingly went out, and accompanied the rest to see
how things went. — The Scalp, and Belt was sent forward
1 A Seneca town.
966 Sir William Johnson Papers
through the Nations, but on its coming to Oneida, the People of
that Village Judged it improper it should go farther, & accordingly
buried the Scalp. —
Then the Speaker of Onondaga (holding the Belt received
from the Oneidas &c to diswade them from going to England
at present) told them that, on farther Consideration thereof they
had agreed to lay aside their Voyage. —
Returned 2 Belts. —
Then acquainted Sir William with the Message sent by the
Indians of CognaTvagey to the Chenussios last Summer, which
they had not yet answered, by reason of their Distance, but that
they had sent a Belt, to Invite the Cognawageys to a Meeting at
Onondaga next Year, when they would answer them fully. —
1 6th. — The Indians assembled as before, when Sir Wm.
addressed them as follows. —
Present as before
Brethren of the five Friendly Nations —
I have heard what you have said, as also what the Chenussios
have told me concerning the Cause of their coming down, with
the reasons assigned for the beginning of the Quarrel wth the
English. —
I am sorry that the Causes they have attributed them to, are
very insignificant, & disatisfactory, and must appear so, to all
your Brethren, the English, and although I am obliged to your
good Intentions for bringing the Chenussios down at this time,
yet the Message which I sent was no ways relative thereto, but
contained such good Advice as I have always given your Nations,
and which had it been followed, would have turned out greatly
to your advantage; but whilst I was endeavoring to bring about
Peace in one place, they were stricking the English in another. —
I have therefore no more to say, but that I shall acquaint the
King's General with what you say, and with the Proposals you
make concerning Peace: but I cannot assure you of the Success
of my Representation, as I dont know but whilst I am endeavor-
ing to procure you Credit with the English, some of our Enemies
Indian Uprising 967
may strike our Frontiers, and overset the Work of Peace ; I shall
however let you know what the General says in Answer as soon
as I Receive it. —
Brethren —
There is at present no Opportunity for your going to England,
and therefore am glad you have laid the Voyage aside. — besides
I have lately represented your Affairs to his Majesty in so par-
ticular a Manner, that I imagine every thing for your Advantage
will be done in England, provided you act a friendly part in this
Country. —
Brethren —
As it will be necessary that I should be acquainted with the
particulars of your intended Meeting with the Cognarvageys, it
will be proper for me to be present thereat, & therefore I shall
expect timely Notice thereof. —
A Belt. —
The Chenussio Deputies returned Sir William thanks, and
promised there should no Hostilities be committed, until they
heard from the General. —
P.M. Same day two Cayugas desired a private Meeting with
Sir William, which being granted, the Speaker spoke as fol-
lows. —
Brother —
I am desired by the Sachims to acquaint you with the Reasons
of their not attending this Congress, and to Assure you that they
are nevertheless as well affected as ever, & determined to abide
by their repeated Engagements, and Promises, — that as soon
as their People who have been to war against the Cherokees,
return, (which is the Cause of their not coming down at present)
they will with the Principal Warriors of their Nations come
whenever you please & wait on You.
3 Strings. —
968 Sir William Johnson Papers
1 7th. — Sir William told the Cayuga Deputies that he did not
take well, their Sachims not attending this Congress, and that
the reasons they assigned for it, were no wise satisfactory. — that
he began to be apprehensive of the Defection of part of that
Nation, by the Behavior of some of their Warriors towards the
English, living on the Frontiers of Virginia, which he had an
account of from the Governor of that Province, desiring at the
same time to know what Nations had acted so base a Part after
the friendly Treatment they met with, and in time of profound
Peace, and that he had heard lately, to his great Surprize, that a
Party of their Nation had Commenced Hostilities on the Fron-
tiers of Pennsylvania by killing five English, and taking one
Prisoner, — that if this was true, he expected their Chief People
would take such immediate Steps to give him satisfaction for so
cruel, and unnatural a Behavior as would content a much injured,
and exasperated People. This Advice he gave them, which he
insisted on their following, if they had any Regard for their
own Hapiness and Security. —
A white Belt. —
Same day TayaTvarunte Speaker of Onondaga, and Tarvass-
kughta a chief Warrior of that Nation, addressed Sir William
with a Belt of Wampum from their Nation only, begging, he
would not at this Meeting, as he proposed, push, or move the
five Nations to carry on the War against the Sharvanese, and
Delarvares, but first to let this Affair of the Chenussios be settled
first, and that then it would come with more Propriety. —
A Belt. —
Sir William made answer, that he could not think the General
would pass over, or forgive the vile Behavior of the Chenussios,
or any other Nation of Indians, who had been guilty of so many
unheard of Cruelties, and Barbarities to a People who had been
so long their friends, and who had no ill Designs against them
at the time they Commenced Hostilities, that however, he would
lay before the King's General, what the Chenussio Deputies had
now said at this Meeting, and on his receiving an Answer thereto,
Indian Uprising 969
would immediately acquaint the Five Nats. therewith, and call
the chief Warriors of every friendly Nation in these Parts to a
Meeting here, and thereat make known the General's, and his own
Resolutions. —
A broad Belt wth. a Road through it. —
On the same day, at a full Meeting of all the Nations Cono-
quieson, Oneida Speaker, with a black and white Belt stood up
in behalf of the Oneida Confederacy and with a great deal of
Spirit, and Warmth, addressed the Chenussios in the following
Manner, to the great Satisfaction of all the rest. —
Elder Brethren of Chenussio. —
I am now going to speak to you in Behalf of the younger
Branch of the Confederacy, and in the Presence of the rest of
your Brethren, the Mohawks, and Onondagas. —
We have been informed that You, in order to Exculpate your-
selves, have reported that, the Oneidas were the People who
Occasioned the present troubles, by a Message sent last Summer,
the Purport whereof was as follows, viz1. — "that as there were
some Troops going up in order to Reinforce the several Posts as
far as Detroit, and two Belts of Wampum being sent to us by
the Mohocks, that the Five Nations might not be alarmed thereat,
the person who carried the Belts having overtaken one of your
People named Aghseissahawe, and living at Karraghidirho,1 at
Kass'2 Land, who undertook to carry them through the Five
Nations to acquaint them with the Purport thereof, but instead
of acting agreeably thereto, he entirely altered the same, and
carried the Belts to the more distant Nations, as an Ax given to
them from You, with a Desire to make use of it against the
English, which they in effect took proper Notice of by employing
it against their Brethren. — This is the Truth, and which you
well know to be so, nor had we any hand in it, as falsly prop-
ogated by you. — how often have we, as well as the rest of the
1 A town in Alleghany county, N. Y.
2 George Casse.
970 Sir William Johnson Papers
Confederacy spoke to, and Entreated you of Chenussio to lay
aside your Ax, and wicked thoughts? — Are there not Belts of
our Wampum, which would make a very large Heap, now in
your Nation, which we have made use of since the Commence-
ment of Hostilities, in order to bring you to your Senses? — We
should not have taken these Steps, nor so much trouble in the
Affair were we not desireous of living in Friendship with our
Brethren, the English, we now assure you of our Attachment to
them, and once more desire you to Repent of what you have done
to them. — take Pity of your Children, and Families. — con-
sider also your Country, if you have any Regard for the same,
and leave of your silly Pride, otherwise you will suffer for it. —
if you do not now Comply, this is the last Admonition we shall
ever give you. — I speak only to you of Chenussio, as the rest of
the Confederacy have nothing else in View but to keep up that
Friendship with the English which has so long subsisted — do
you the same, and perhaps you may live to have white Heads —
There is one thing more which we, your Younger Brethren must
insist upon your leaving off; which is your false, & foolish Belief
of Jesus telling your People ridiculous Stories, and encouraging
you to Mischief, — We tell you it is the Evil Spirit, if any of your
People have been told what they so often report. — Your Want
of knowledge of Jesus leads you to credit evil things the sooner.
— Lastly We the younger Branch of the Confederacy insist on
your heartily repenting for what you have done, & recommend
you to be honest in all your Declarations now made in our
Presence. —
A black and White Belt. —
Hie Chenussios Answered. —
Younger Brethren —
We have attentively heard your Advice, and heartily thank
you for the same you have really shook us by the Head so often,
that we have not a Hair left on it. I will take this your last Advice
Indian Uprising 971
with us to our Country, and promise you that we will behave
so as never more to Require your shaking us by our Heads. —
Ended —
P:M: Same day Deioquande chief Warrior of Onondaga
sent one of his nation to acquaint Sir William that he and his
Party intended to go a Bever Hunting on their Return and begged
he would let them have half a Dozen of Bever Traps, and that
they would be back by the time he would call them to the pro-
posed Meeting. —
3 Strings. —
1 8th. — On this day Conoquieson came to acquaint Sir Wil-
liam that his Nation having, yet something to say would wait on
him any time he would appoint. —
1 9th. — The Bunt, and Onondaga Speaker came to acquaint
Sir William of their having a private Conference with the Chenus-
sio Deputy Sarrahoana last night, at which he declared in the
most solemn Manner his Disaprobation all along to the Proceed-
ings of some of that Nation to whom he had repeatedly spoke,
and endeavored to diswade from their rash Schemes, but to no
purpose until of late; on which he proposed to them, and one more
of that Nation to come down with Silver Heels in order to try
if possible to make up Matters with the English, as it was a
Matter they were very desirous of, and that the Onondagas told
Sarrahoana that he should go and speak to Sir William on that
head, which he had promised to do, and that thereupon the
Onondagos were extremely glad to find them at last sensible of
their Folly. —
Same day Sir William desired to know from the Sachims of
the Six Nats. then present at his House how far their Claims, or
Bounds extended, as well what was Originally theirs, as what
they claimed by Conquest, to which they said they would take
some time to Consider amongst themselves, and would then give
him an Answer
P:M: — The Sachims, and Headmen of Parties came in,
972 Sir William Johnson Papers
and Conoquieson Speaker of Oneida after telling Sir William,
and all present, the many Nations they had conquered, and the
Cause of Quarrel, which they had handed down from Father to
Son, said that from Albany down to the Sea side was conquered
by their Ancestors, except what was sold by the Original Prop-
rietors to the English, before their Quarrel with them. Thence
away to the Catabaw Country, from thence to the Mississipi,
and along that River to the Country of Adonissaiy, thence to the
North end of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, the Ottawa River
down to Montreal from the Mouth of the River Sorrel to Lake
Champlain, from thence to Lake George, Fort Edward and to
Albany. —
22d. — On this day Sir William delivered to the Indians a
Present to the amount of six hundred Pounds Currc?. but none
to the Chenussio Deputies, having told them that he could not
think of giving any thing to a People who were as yet his Enemies
— that their returning empty was owing to their own folly, and
Wickedness, of which they might now plainly see the Con-
sequences. —
P:M: — Same day Sir William had many private Meetings
with the several Nations, at wch. he told them very fully, and
plainly, the Consequence of a War with the English, and gave
his Advice as a friend, how those, who were not as yet engaged,
should act, as well as to those who were, to which they all paid
the utmost Regard, and parted with him, greatly satisfied, and
very thankful for his friendly, and wholesome Admonitions. —
Ended —
Indian Uprising 973
TO THOMAS GAGE
A. L. S.1
Johnson Hall, Decbr. 23*, 1763
Dear Sir
Your Excellencys favours of the 30th. Ult°.2 and 1st. of this
Ins1.3 were accompanied with two letters from the Lords of Trade
the one of Septbr. & the other of the 1 0th. of Octbr. last enclose-
ing me the Kings Proclamation and expressing the approbation
of his Majesty & his Ministers, and that of their Lordships on my
late representations, and his Majestys orders that I should cause
the Proclamation therewith transmitted to be made pu[b]lick &
Strictly complied with throughout my Jurisdiction. —
I am hopefull that on receipt of my last letter, there Lordships
will be able still farther to contribute towards the salutary Points
in view relative to Indians. This Proclamation does not releive
their present greiviances which are many, being calculated only
to prevent the like hereafter, altho there are numberless Instances
of Tracts wh. have indeed been purchased, but in the most illegal
& fraudulent manner, all which demands redress. I have at this
Meeting made the best use in my power of his Majestys Proclama-
tion for the convincing the Indians here of his gracious & favour-
able disposition to do them Justice, & shall communicate the same
to all the rest. —
The Indians have been here for Several Days to the amount
230, are now mostly departed for their respective Nations, for
wh. purpose I have dismissed them wth. a present, they were ac-
companied by Several of the yet freindly Senecas from Kanada-
segey* as also by 3 Deputys Sent from Chenussio to know whether
1 In William L. Clements Library; draft in New York State Library
destroyed by fire; printed in Diary of The Siege of Detroit, Ed. Hough,
p. 210-13.
2 Ante p. 937.
3 Johnson Papers, 4:255-56.
4 Near Geneva, Ontario County, New York.
974 Sir William Johnson Papers
the Offers of Peace which they have now made me will be ac-
cepted of, in wh. they were seconded by all the rest, who earnestly
desired the same might be taken into consideration, and after
representing the Manner in which the Senecas of Chenussio had
been led into ye. War intimated that should we now receive them
into our freindship the generality of the Indians would chearfully
Join us in any operations against the rest, particularly agst. the
ShaWanese & Delawares, whom they represented as the principal
Authors of the late Troubles. — To which, (after giveing them
the most severe reprimand in the presence of all the rest) I an-
swered them that I could do nothing therein, but would lay the
same before You. I must therefore request your directions &
Sentiments thereon. This was the cheif purport of the late con-
ference, the rest of their Speeches consisting of a repetition of
their promises & Assurances of their unvariable attachment to
his Majesty. —
On this Subject I must beg leave to offer my opinion, that the
five Freindly Nations must naturally be verry uneasy at any
attempts against the Senecas, as they are a part of their Con-
federacy however Justly they may deserve our resentment, but I
am confident that the whole would readily Joyn against their
perfidious Dependents the Shatvanese & Delawares, as well as
agst. any others who have acted as principals in the War. — the
Hurons of Detroit from the concurring Acctts. of all Persons,
were with the utmost difficulty & by severe threats persuaded to
engage in the War by the Ottawas &ca. under Pondiac, who with
the before mentioned Shawanese & Delawares have sufficiently
shewn themselves as Principals in the War. —
I imagine that any Hostilities committed in or about Pensil-
vania and Jersey must be done by the Delawares. Wyaloosen
is an Indian Town on the Susquahana River a good way below
Diaogo,1 & a considerable distance from any Settlemts. & all those
of that Nation who have become our Enemies have lately re-
moved from the Susquehana to the Ohio &ca. amongst the Shawa-
1 Tioga.
Indian Uprising 975
nese, and those who remain on or about the Susquahana partic-
ularly from its Source down to Owegy are our freinds. — and here
I cannot help remarking the absurdity of most of ye. Acc,ls.
received from the Provinces is apt to give a verry unjust Idea of
Indian Affairs, for instance in one of the late New York Papers,
you will have observed it insinuated that a Party who defeated
Cap1. Westbrook on the Borders of Pensilvania consisted of
Mohawks wh. they pretend to know from their Caps & manner
of cutting their Hair, — the fidelity of the Mohawks deserves a
better return, and the folly of such representations should certainly
be removed, least it come to the knowledge of our f reindly Tribes
who might entertain much rancour from such falsitys. The Mo-
hawks do not wear Caps, nor any Nation of the Confederacy
except the Senecas & some Cayugas, the former learned that
practice from their vicinity to Niagra where such were usually
worn dureing the Winter, neither are the Authors of that Para-
graph or any other Persons whatsoever capable of distinguishing
one of those Caps from another, or knowing to what Nation it
belonged, any more than they are of discerning one Blanket from
another. —
The House of Assembly have been verry moderate in their
resolves. I have received from the L*. Governour in consequence
thereof, Blank Warrants & Commissions1 for raising two Com-
panys of 50 Men Each to be stationed at Scohare, & Cherry
Valley, which I shall give to such Persons as I Judge best qualified
to answer their intention. —
I am informed by letter from Niagra that Wabbicomicut Cheif
of the numerous Nation of the Chippawaes (who Accompanied
me to the Detroit in 1761, & has since behaved verry well on
his part & prevented Numbers of his People from Joining against
us) purposes to visit me shortly on public business, wh. if he does,
or that I am attended by any other distant or Enemy Indianss I
shall be glad to have your Sentiments concerning my behaviour
1 Commissions for officers in the Militia.
976 Sir William Johnson Papers
to them on that Occasion and in what manner You think it best
to treat them. —
I am with all Regard —
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
& most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
The Honrble. MAJOR GENRL. GAGE —
INDORSED:
Sr. Wm. Johnson Decr. 23d.
1763.
received Jan?. 8th.
answd. Jan"*y. 12th.
A PROCLAMATION
D. S.1
[Johnson Hall Dec. 24, 1763]
By the Honorable Sir WILLIAM JOHNSON, Bart. His Ma-
jesty's Superintendant of Indian Affairs for the Northern District
of North- America; Colonel of the Six United Nations, their
Allies and Dependants, and of his Majesty's Council for the
Province of New-York, &c.
A PROCLAMATION
Whereas I have received His Majesty's royal Proclamation,
given at the Court of St James the eleventh Day of October last,
1 From a photograph of the original printed proclamation, in Canadian
Archives. Original in Papers Relative to the Province of Quebec, 1791 , in
Public Record Office, London, England. Copied in the Canadian Archives,
Q 62 A, pt. I, p. 114. Printed in Shortt, A. and Doughty, A. G. (eds),
Canadian Archives Documents relating to the Constitutional History of
Canada, 1759-1791, 119-23.
Indian Uprising 977
together with a Letter1 from the Right Honorable Lords Com-
missioners for the Trade and Plantations, of the Tenth of October
last signifying His Majesty's Commands, that I should cause
the same "to be forthwith made public!? in the several Parts of
my Jurisdiction, and that I should strictly enjoin all Persons
whatever rvhom it might concern, to pay a due Obedience thereto
on their Parts." Which Proclamation is in the Words following.
BY THE KING
A PROCLAMATION
George R.
Whereas We have taken into Our Royal Consideration the
extensive and valuable Acquisitions in America, secured to Our
Crown by the late Definitive Treaty of Peace, concluded at
Paris the Tenth Day of February last; and being desirous, that
all Our loving Subjects, as well of Our Kingdoms as of Our
Colonies in America,2 may avail themselves, with all convenient
1 Printed in Johnson Papers, 4:214.
2 A report of the Lords of Trade, Nov. 5, 1761, regarding the
proposal to transport a number of Germans to the American colonies
after the peace, shows the attitude of the home government at this
time on the matter of immigration, the kind of immigrants most desired
and the need of an outlet in some of the older colonies in America for
surplus population. The report states that as "regards colonies possessed
before the war, the increase encouragement and advantages of the less
populated southern colonies are such as to induce sufficient migration without
burdening the public. Our own reduced sailors and soldiers would be more
proper objects of national bounty, and better colonists, than foreigners,
whose ignorance of the English language, laws, and constitution cannot
fail to increase those disorders and that confusion in our Government
which the too great migration of people from Germany has already fatally
introduced in some of our most valuable possessions." Calendar of Home
Office Papers of the Reign of George III, 1760-1765, No. 349.
978 Sir William Johnson Papers
Speed, of the Great Benefits and Advantages which much accrue
therefrom to their Commerce, Manufactures, and Navigation;
We have thought fit, with the Advice of Our Privy Council, to
issue this Our Royal Proclamation, hereby to publish and declare
to all Our loving Subjects, that We have, with the Advice of Our
said Privy Council, granted Our Letters Patent under Our Great
Seal of Great Britain, to erect within the Countries and Islands
ceded and confirmed to Us by the said Treaty, Four distinct and
separate Governments, stiled and called by the Names of Quebec,
East Florida, West Florida, and Granada and limited and
bounded as follows; viz.
First. The Government of Quebec, bounded on the Labrador
Coast by the River St. John, and from thence by a Line drawn
from the Head of that River through the Lake St. John to the
South End of the Lake Nipissin; from whence the said Line
crossing the River St. Lawrence and the Lake Champlain in
Forty five Degrees of North Latituded, passes along the High
Lands which divide the Rivers that empty themselves into the said
river St. Lawrence, from whose1 which fall into the Sea, and
also along the North Coast of the Bay des Chaleurs, and the
Coast of the Gulph of St. Lawrence to Cape Rosieres, and from
thence crossing the Mouth of the River St. Lawrence by the West
End of the Island of Anticosti, terminates at the aforesaid river
St. John.
Secondly. The Government of East Florida, bounded to the
West ward by the Gulph of Mexico, and the Apalichicola River;
to the Northward by a Line drawn from that Part of the said
River where the Chatahouchee and Flint Rivers meet, to the
Source of St. Marys River, and by the Course of the said River
to the Atlnatick Ocean; and to the Eastward and Southward,
by the Atlantic}? Ocean, and the Gulph of Florida, including all
Islands with Six Leagues of the Sea Coast.
1 Those.
Indian Uprising 979
Thirdly. The Government of West Florida, bounded to the
Southward by the Gulph of Mexico, including all Islands within
Six Leagues of the Coast from the river Apalachicola to Lake
Ponchartrain; to the Westward by the said Lake, the Lake
Mauripas and the River Missisippi; to the Northward by a Line
Drawn due East from that Part of the River Missisippi which
lies in Thirtyone Degrees North Latitude, to the River Apala-
chicola or Chatahouchee; and to the Eastward by the said River.
Fourthly. The Government of Granada, comprehending the
Island of that Name, together with the Grenadines, and the
Islands of Dominico, St. Vincent's and Tobago.
And, to the End that the open and free Fishery of Our Sub-
jects may be extended to and carried on upon the Coast of
Labrador, and the adjacent Islands, We have thought fit with
the Advice of Our said Privy Council, to put all that Coast, from
the River St. Johns to Hudson's Streights, together with all the
Islands of Anticosti and Magdelaine, and other smaller Islands
lying upon the said Coast, under the Care and Inspection of Our
Governor of Newfoundland.
We have also, with the Advice of Our Privy Council, thought
it1 to annex the Islands of St. Johns and Cape Breton or Isle
Royale, with the lesser Islands adjacent thereto, to Our Govern-
ment of Nova Scotia.2
We have also, with the Advice of Our Privy Council afore-
said, annexed to Our Province of Georgia, all the Lands lying
between the Rivers Altamaha and St. Marys.
And Whereas it will greatly contribute to the speedy settling
Our said new Governments, that Our loving Subjects should be
informed of Our Paternal Care for the Security of the Liberties
and Properties of those who are and shall become Inhabitants
thereof; We have thought fit to publish and declare, by this Our
1 Fit.
2 Nova Scotia included the three present maritime provinces of Nova
Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
980 Sir William Johnson Papers
Proclamation, that We have, in the Letters Patents under Our
Great Seal of Great Britain, by which the said Governments are
constituted, given express Power and Direction to Our Governors
of Our said Colonies respectively, that so soon as the State and
Circumstances of the said Colonies will admit thereof, they shall
with the Advice and Consent of the Members of Our Council,
summon and call General Assemblies within the said Govern-
ments respectively, in such Manner and Form as is used and
directed in those Colonies and Provinces in America, which are
under Our immediate Government; and We have also given
Power to the said Governors, with the Consent of Our Councils,
and the Representatives of the People, so to be summoned as
aforesaid, to make, constitute, and ordain Laws, Statutes, and
Ordinances for the Public Peace, Welfare and Good Govern-
ment of Our said Colonies, and of the People and Inhabitants
thereof; as near as may be agreeable to the Laws of England,
and under such Regulations and Restrictions as are used in other
Colonies; and in the mean Time, and until such Assemblies can
be called as aforesaid, all Persons inhabiting in or resorting to
Our said Colonies may confide in Our Royal Protection for the
Enjoyment of the Benefit of the Laws of Our Realm of England;
for which Purpose We have Given Power under Our Great Seal
to the Governors of Our said Councils respectively, to erect and
constitute, with the Advice of Our said Councils respectively,
Courts of Judicature and Publick Justice within Our Said Col-
onies, for hearing and determining all Causes as well Criminal as
Civil, according to Law and Equity, and as near as may be agree-
able to the Laws of England with Liberty to all Persons who
may think themselves aggrieved by the Sentences of such Courts
in all Civil Cases or Tryals [to appeal]1 under the usual Limita-
tions and Restrictions to Us, in Our Privy Council.
We have also thought fit, with the Advice of Our Privy
Council as aforesaid, to Give unto the Governor and Councils
of Our Said Three new Colonies upon the Continent, full Power
1 Phrase in brackets omitted in printed copy, but found in the original.
Indian Uprising 981
and Authority to settle and agree with the Inhabitants of Our
said new Colonies, or with any other Persons who shall resort
thereto, for such Lands, Tenements, and Hereditaments, as are
now or hereafter shall be in Our Power to dispose of, and them
to grant to any such Person or Persons, upon such Terms, and
under such moderate Quit-Rents, Services and Acknowledg-
ments, as have been appointed and settled in Our other Colonies,
and under such other Conditions as shall appear to Us to be neces-
sary and expedient for the Advantage of the Grantees, and the
Improvement and Settlement of Our said Colonies.
And whereas We are desirous, upon all Occasions, to testify
Our Royal Sense and Approbation of the Conduct and Bravery
of the Officers and Soldiers of Our Armies, and to reward the
same; We do hereby command and impower our Governors
of Our Three New Colonies, and all other Our Governors of
our several Provinces on the Continent of North- America, to
grant without Fee or Reward, to such reduced Officers as have
Served in North- America during the late War, and to such
private Soldiers as have been or shall be disbanded in America,
and are actually residing there, and shall personally apply for
the same, the following Quantities of Lands, subject at the Ex-
piration of Ten Years to the same Quit-Rents as other Lands
are subject to in the Province within which they are granted, as
also subject to the same Conditions of Cultivation and Improve-
ments, viz.
To every Person having the Rank or a Field Officer, Five
Thousand Acres. — To every Captain, Three Thousand Acres.
— To every Subaltern or Staff Officer, Two Thousand Acres.
— To Every Non-Commission Officer, Two Hundred Acres. —
To every Private Man, Fifty Acres.
We do likewise authorize and require the Governors and Com-
manders in Chief of all Our said Colonies upon the Continent of
North- America, to grant the like Quantities of Land, and upon
the Same Conditions, to such reduced Officers of our Navy, of
the Rank, as served on board Our Ships of War in North- America
at the Times of the Reduction of Louisbourg and Quebec in the
982 Sir William Johnson Papers
late War, and who Shall personally apply to Our respective
Governors for such Grants.1
And whereas it is just and reasonable, and essential to Our
Interest and the Security of Our Colonies, that the several Na-
tions or Tribes of Indians, with whom we are connected, and
who live under Our Protaction, should not be molested or dis-
turbed in the Possession of such Parts of Our Dominions and
Territories as, not having been ceded to, or purchased by Us, are
reserved to them, or any of them as their Hunting Grounds; We
do therefore, with the Advice of Our Privy Council, declare it
to be Our Royal Will and Pleasure, that no Governor or Com-
mander in Chief in any of Our Colonies of Quebec, East Florida,
or West Florida, do presume, upon any Pretence whatever, to
grant Warrants or Survey, or pass any Patents for Lands beyond
the Bounds of their respective Governments, as described in their
Commissions; as also, that no Governor or Commander in Chief
in any of Our other Colonies or Plantations in America, do
presume, for the present and until Our further Pleasure be known,
to grant Warrants of Survey, or pass Patents for any Lands
beyond the Heads or Sources of any of the Rivers which fall
into the Atlantic!? Ocean from the West and North- West, or
upon any Lands whatever, which not having been ceded to or
purchased by Us as aforesaid, are reserved to the said Indians
or any of them.
And We do further declare it to be Our Royal Will and
Pleasure, for the present as aforesaid, to reserve under Our
Sovereignty, Protection, and Dominion, for the Use of the said
Indians, all the Lands and Territories not included within the
Limits of our said Three New Governments, or within the Limits
1 On Oct. 1 3, 1 763, the Earl of Halifax wrote to the Attorney
General, inquiring "as to the means which should be used to nullify the
doubtfulness of a paragraph in His Majesty's proclamation, which
makes it appear that only those officers who served both at Louisbourg
and Quebec were entitled to grants of land, such not being His Majesty's
intention. Calendar of Home Office Papers, 1760-1765. No. 1036.
2 Of.
Indian Uprising 983
of the Territory granted to the Hudson's Bay Company, as also
all the Lands and Territories, lying to the Westward of the
Sources of the Rivers which fall into the Sea from the West and
North West, as aforesaid; and We to hereby strictly forbid, on
Pain of Our Displeasure, all Our loving Subjects from making
any Purchases or Settlements whatever, or taking Possession of
any of the Lands above reserved, without Our especial Leave
and Licence for that Purpose first obtained.
And We do further strictly enjoin and require all Persons
whatever, who have either wilfully or inadvertently seated them-
selves upon any Land within the Countries above described, or
upon any other Lands, which not having been ceded to, or pur-
chased by Us, are still reserved to the said Indians as aforesaid,
forthwith to remove themselves from such Settlements.
And whereas great Frauds and Abuses have been committed
in the purchasing Lands of the Indians, to the great Prejudice of
Our interests, and to the great Dissatisfaction of the said Indians;
in order therefore to prevent such Irregularities for the future,
and to the End that the Indians may be convinced of Our Justice,
and determined Resolution to remove all reasonable Cause of
Discontent; We do with the Advice of Our Privy Council, strictly
enjoin and require that no private Person do presume to make
any Purchase from the said Indians of any Lands reserved to the
said Indians, within those Parts of Our Colonies where We have
thought proper to allow Settlements; but that if, at any Time,
any of the said Indians should be inclined to dispose of the said
Lands, the same shall be purchased only for Us, in Our Name,
at some Publick Meeting or Assembly of the said Indians to be
held for that Purpose by the Governor or Commander in Chief of
our Colonies respectively, within which they shall lie; and in
Case they shall lie within the Limits of any Proprietary Govern-
ment, they shall be purchased only for the Use and in the Name
of such Proprietaries, conformable to such Directions and Instruc-
tions as We or they shall think proper to give for that Purpose:
And We do by the Advice of Our Privy Council, declare and
enjoin, that the Trade with the said Indians shall be free and open
984 Sir William Johnson Papers
to all Our Subjects whatever; provided that every Person, who
may incline to trade with the said Indians, to1 take out a Licence
for carrying on such Trade from the Governor or Commander
in Chief of any of Our Colonies respectively, where such Person
shall reside; and also give Security to observe such Regulations
as We shall at any Time think fit, by Ourselves, or by Our Com-
missaries to be appointed for this Purpose, to direct and appoint
for the Benefit of the Said Trade ; And We do hereby authorize,
enjoin, and require the Governors Commanders in Chief of all
Our Colonies respectively, as well those under Our immediate
Government as Those under the Government and Direction of
Proprietaries to grant such Licence, without Fee or Reward,
taking especial care to insert therein a Condition, that such Licence
shall be void, and the Security forfeited, in case the Person to
whom the same is granted, shall refuse or neglect to observe such
Regulations as We shall think proper to prescribe as aforesaid.
And we do further expressly enjoin and require all Officers
whatever, as well Military as those employed in the Management
and Direction of Indian Affairs within the Territories reserved
as aforesaid for the Use of the said Indians, to seize and ap-
prehend all Persons whatever, who, standing charged with
Treasons, Misprisions of Treason, Murders, or other Felonies or
Misdemeanors, shall fly from Justice ; and take Refuge in the said
Territory, and to send them under proper Guard to the Colony
where the Crime was committed of which they stand accused, in
order to take their Tryal for the same.
Given at Our Court at St. Jame's the Seventh Day of October,
One Thousand Seven Hundred and Sixty Three. In the Third
Year of Our Reign.
GOD Save the KING.
I DO, in Obedience to His Majesty's Command give this publick
Notice to all Persons residing within my Jurisdiction, (being that
Country justly Claiemed by the Six Nations, their Allies and
1Do.
Indian Uprising 985
Dependants) that I will, to the Utmost of my Power, cause the
same to be observed: And I do strictly enjoin all such Persons
to pay due Obedience thereto.
GIVEN under my Hand and Seal at Arms, at Johnson-Hall,
the 24th Day of December 1763, in the Fourth Year of the
Reign of our Sovereign Lord GEORGE the Third, by the Grace
of GOD, of Great Britain, France and Ireland; King, Defender
of the Faith, and so forth.
William Johnson.
GOD Save the KING.
By Order of Sir William Johnson.
Witham Marsh, Secry. for Indian Affairs.
At the earnest Request of the Algonkins
I put my name to this
John Johnson1
GOD Save the KING.
A DECLARATION
Contemporary Copy2
The Declaration or Mr. Tadeau to Major Henry Gladwin
and Captain James Grant3 at Major Gladwins4 House in
Detroit on the 24th. Decr. 1763 —
Saith, that in a Council with Pondiac composed of the follow-
ing Principal Inhabitants Viz1. Navarre, Sicotte, Campeau Currie,
and Frank Meloshe some time about the latter end of June or
beginning of July 1 763 Sicotte told Pondiac that they could not
1 Statement and signature in John Johnson's hand.
2 In Canadian Archives, Indian Records, Vol. 7.
3 Captain James Grant of the 40th regiment.
4 Lieutenant Colonel Henry Gladwin, commandant at Detroit. Gladwin
was made Lieut. Col. Sept. 1 7, 1 763.
986 Sir William Johnson Papers
fight with him against the English, as they would thereby expose
their Wives, and Children to inevitable Ruin, should they not
succeed, but that there were above 300 Young men in the Settle-
ment, who had neither Parents, or much Property to lose that
might and ought to join him. in Consequence of which Speech
Pondiac addressed himself to some young men present, who im-
mediately agreed to join him in fighting against the English.
Kentaign told him of this Council, and that Frank Meloshe had
visited in said Council, that Mr. Navarre being a knowing, and a
leading Man, would tell, and assure Pondiac that they were all
ready, and willing to take up arms with him against the English,
which Navarre absolutely refused, and said, No, I will not tell
him, tell it him your self. — That on Tadeaux's hearing the
Result of this Council, he came to1
FROM SAMUEL DUNLOP
Copy2
Cherry Valley, Decern1" 25th 1763.
Honoured Sr:
Not Reflecting upon you, because perhaps the Matter does
not lye alltogether within the compass of your Power, we the
Inhabitants of Cherry Valley, think we are deserted, we hope
not of God, but we think in a great Measure of Man, and ex-
posed to the mercyless Insults of our Enemies without Covert
or Relief.
You know General Amherst was condemned for not making
some Provision for the Safety of the Inhabitants by covering the
Frontiers, and it was expected when he resigned that General
Gadge and your Honour, or the Persons to whom the Care and
1 The manuscript ends here.
2 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 218-20;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 196.
Indian Uprising 987
Management of these Things were committed (you know best
who they were) wou'd have made an alteration before now.
But Things seem to remain in statu quo, with the poor and un-
happy Fronteers and the Council of the Heathen held some Time
agoe seems to have had its accomplishment against all the Places
they intended, us only in this Quarter escaped. Matters appear
darker and darker with us, and the Time now seems to be at
Hand to fetch us the intended Blow and Schoharry's being
warned off we take to be a bad Omen of our aproaching Ruin.
And if Man neither can nor will help us, may Allmighty God,
either ward off the Blow or endow us with that Firmness of Spirit
that may make us bear the Thoughts of Death without Amaze-
ment, and bring our Minds to an equal Poize between the strong
Inclinations of Nature to live, and the Dictates of Reason and
Religion that should make us willing to die when he pleases.
Death and a destroying Enemy may curtail a few Years of
this mortal Life, from those of us that are old, but thanks be to
God can never destroy our immortal Life. But it's a Pity the
young and rising Generation should be cutt off, and the Hand
of the Heathen embrewed in their Blood, who if spared, might
make some Figure in the World, and be usefull to Generations
to come, and therefore, if you can mediate any Timous Relief
I beg you may.
For it is but a poor Redress to come to our Assistance when
dead, and to bury our ma[n]gled Corps when we are gone,
which is but too often the senseless Custom of the Country where
we live, tho tis the best Redress the Case will then admit of. But
the Matter is to secure against the Blow beforehand and therefore
once more I would beg of you Honourable Sr that you would
mediate some Relief for us, or some way to secure us if in your
Power before it be too late. And if we fall, as Christ prayed for
his Enemies, Father forgive them for they know not what they do,
so I pray God our Blood may never be laid to their Charge who
had it in their Power to help us and did it not. Please to give my
988 Sir William Johnson Papers
kind Compliments to Capt. Guy Johnson & all your good Family.
I add no more, but remain Sr your
Humble Supplicant,
Saml. Dunlop1
FROM CADWALLADER COLDEN
Fort George Dec 28th 1763
Dear Sir
In my letter of the 7th3 of the month among other papers I
inclosed to you a Copy of the Kings Proclamation of the 7th of
October last. Among Other Things in that Proclamation it is
directed that every person who may incline to trade with the
said Indians do take out a licence for carrying on such trade
from the Governor & commander in Chief of our Colonies where
such person shall reside and also give Security &c : I shall be glad
to know your Sentiments on this Subject & how it is most properly
to be put in execution. In the mean time as I am fully perswaded
from the Informations which I have received that a principal
reason of the Indians sueing for peace at this time is from their
Want of Ammunition & the Stop which has been put to trade
among them whereby they begin to feel that they cannot subsist
without us nor defend themselves against our resentment. I am
1 In 1 738, John Lindesay and others procured a Patent of 8000
Acres in what is now Cherry Valley, and soon after Mr. L. met in
New York the Rev. Samuel Dunlop and prevailed on him to visit the
Tract, offering him several hundred Acres upon Condition of his using
his Influence with his Friends to settle upon the Land. The Proposition
was accepted and Mr. Dunlop visited Londonderry in New Hampshire,
where several of his Acquaintance resided, and induced Numbers to
emigrate to the new Tract Campbell's History of Tryon County. — Note
by Hough, ed.
2 In Henry E. Huntington Library.
3 Ante p. 949.
Indian Uprising 989
of Opinion you cannot be too Cautious in preventing their being
supplied with ammunition or indeed with any necessaries untill
Such time that Peace be made with them upon the most certain
& secure foundation after which they may be assured that they
will be accommodated with every thing they want & be treated
in the most friendly manner. After what has passed they must
not be allowed to trifle with us, as they have too often don, but
give the most solid security of their faith & sincerity.
The treacherous & cruel behaveur of the Indians of late has
so irritated all ranks of people in the Colonies that if they do not
prevent it [they will] by a sincere repentance they will soon feel
the weight of a very severe resentment. I am at this time Solicited
to Send out a number of Volunteers to chastise the Indians on
the Susquehana who have lately made inroads on Pensylvania
near our frontiers but I would not consent to it while the Indians
are treating with you & without consulting you as to the number
of men sufficient for that purpose & the probability of success as
likewise what may be the most proper method to be taken [for
that purpose]
I shall long to hear the success of your treaty & your opinion
of the matters on which I desire your advise for which I shall at
all times have the greatest regard
I am with the most sincere esteem & friendship
S'
Your most obedient &
humble servant
Cadwallader Colden
Sir William Johnson Bar1
990 Sir William Johnson Papers
TO THOMAS GAGE
Johnson Hall Deco'. 30ih. 1763
Dear Sir
I have had the pleasure of your Letter of the 1 2th. Inst.2 and I
am verry happy in finding You approve of my observations. —
Altho I am sensible that it cannot Naturally be expected the
Five Nations should engage heartily against the Senecas, who are a
Branch of their Confederacy, Yet I am confident I can procure
some Others for that purpose, and a considerable Number to
assist his Majestys Troops in any other Quarter, & that they will
all enter sanguinely into a War against the Shawanese and
Delawares in particular, of this I have no manner of doubt, and
I know their importance on such an occasion too well, to apprehend
they will fail being of Use. —
I am heartily glad to hear the Just Sentiments you express
concerning their Abilities, and I may venture to say in addition
thereto, that without their Assistance in a War against Indians,
any Troops that may be employed will meet with unsurmountable
difficulties & hazard, which the presence of some faithfull Indians
will effectually remove. —
I have avoided as much as the good of the Service could
possibly admit of, any large Expences to these People, but as they
must necessarily be kept in proper Spirits, and taught to observe
that they are Gainers by their fidelity to Us, it is impossible to
dismiss them empty handed, especially if we consider the great
fatiuges they undergo in comeing & returning to the Severall
Meetings held here, & at other places this time past, and how
critical their Scituation is at present from the displeasure of our
Enemeies, that these still our Freinds have been indeed the Sole
security of these Frontiers, as well as of the communication to
1 In William L. Clements Library; draft in New York State Library
destroyed by fire.
2 Ante p. 953.
Indian Uprising 991
Ontario, and that their Assistance the ensueing Campaign may be
of the utmost consequence to the Success of our Operations. —
Att the particular desire of Sir Jeff: Amherst last June, I
procured some trusty Mohawks to go to Detroit in order to attend
on Cap*. Dalyel who being killed before their Arrival,1 they have
been since employed by Lieu1. Co11. Gladwin, who has given me a
verry good Acclt. of them, one of them is now Sent back from
Niagra to Detroit with letters, another from the latter to Fort
Pitt, & Daniel the head of the Party to whom a Dollar ^ Day
was promised, is Just returned here. — Cap1. Dalyel being dead
Daniel remains unpaid, and has applyed to me for his pay. I must
beg your directions on this Head, and in what manner this Indian,
& the rest of his Party are to be paid. — I have the Honour to be
with the greatest Esteem
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
& Most Humble Servant
WM. Johnson
His Excellency
the Honb,e. GENRL. Gage
INDORSED:
Sr. Wm. Johnson
Dec^. 30th. 1 763
received Janrx. 8th.
Answd. Janx. 1 2th.
1 Captain James Dalyell of the 1 st regiment was killed July 31,1 763.
992 Sir William Johnson Papers
MEMORIAL OF INDIAN TRADERS
Copy1
Dated 30 th Dec^ 1763.
To his Excellency, Thomas Gage, Commander-in-Chief of His
Majesty's Forces in America, &c. &c.
May it please your Excellency as we conceive some Hopes
from the Accounts we have from D'troit of having a Peace with
the Indians in the Spring, and as Your Excellency has the
ordering of every thing on the Continent, knowing your Inclination
of serving every Person to the utmost of your Power, and your
Excellency's Desire strictly to adhere to the good of his
Majesty's Subjects, we humbly beg leave to Petition your Excel-
lency and represent to you the Misfortunes we have labored
under from the Plunder that was made by the Indians at the
Time that the Forts were surprised, and to hint to you what we
think may be to our private Advantage without any Detriment to
the Nation and wherein our Losses may be in some Measure
repaid without any Retardment to the publick Peace. According
to the Custom of Trading several Indian Nations having taken up
Goods upon Credit to a very considerable amount, and are all of
them capable of making Payment for the same, some of them
having heard nothing of the Indian Warr had brought their
Peltrys to Discharge their Debts, but on seeing the Distress we
were in their good Intentions were laid aside and they took a
Part with our Enemies. These are the Indians who have been
most distressed during the Time the Warr has continued, and we
hear are most desirous of bringing Things to an End. The Ottawas,
the Chipaways, the Miamis, the Pouteoutamis, Saguinaw, Iroquis,
&c. with all the Indians who trade on Lake Superior. If your
Excellency thinks proper, when they propose Terms of Peace, to
mention to them to pay their Debts, if your Excellency thinks it
1 Printed in Diary of the Siege of Detroit, ed. Hough, p. 224-25 ;
original in New York State Library was destroyed by fire. See Johnson
Calendar, p. 196.
Indian Uprising 993
will be no Detriment to the Publick Good it will make us some
Retalliation for the excessive Losses we have sustained, will
put us again on a good Footing for Trade and will relieve from
great Distress your Excellency's Petitioners and most dutiful
& Obed1 Servts
Signed,
Ja's Howard,
Jno. Chinn,
Edwd Chinn,
James Stanly Goddard,
Heny Bostwick,
Forrest Outres,
Gorsen Levy,
Holmes & Memsen.
AFFIDAVIT OF AN UNKNOWN PERSON
D.1
Dec 1763
About eighteen or nineteen years ago Mr. Collins2 Surveyor
[David Schuyler],3 & Peter Waggoner told the Dep1. at ye.
House that they [had] been up to survey the land at Conajoharee
for Mr. Livingston4 [ ] that they had proceeded up the
river [in a Canoe] during the night [for that purpose, & that
they came down the said River to the House of Schyler]5 which
was moonlight [that said Collins had his Compass on Schuyler in
a Canoe in which said Collins had his compass fixed, and the
Canoe, & on coming down the River he took the several Cour(ses)
thereof, & of the shore.] to a Creek called Onondaga on the
Western Shore, that whilst Davd. Schyler, & Peter Waggoner
1 In Johnson manuscripts ; no exact date but listed at end of 1 763
in Johnson Calendar, p. 197.
2 Edward Collins.
3 Words italicized and in brackets were crossed out in the manuscript.
4 Philip Livingston.
6 David Schuyler.
994 Sir William Johnson Papers
were asleep the said Collins fixed his Compass at the Mouth of
said Creek, & took a Course up into the woods, that before day
next morning said Collins waked Davd. Schyler, & Peter Wag-
goner, who were surprised to see the Compass fixed, that thereupon
said Collins bid them make haste, & embark in their Canoe for
fear the Indns. should discover them as they would knock them
on the head — that, on embarking in a hurry a Bag with Wag-
goners name on [it] & an axe were left behind which Waggoner
was desirous to go fetch, but Collins prevented it saying, that
those who had got the Land could easily afford to pay for them —
That they then proceeded [to the house down the River near
to the where David Schyler now lives] , said Collins having his
Compass fixed in the Canoe all the way, and took the several
Courses of the shore, that he desired said Schyler & Waggoner to
make haste, & paddle briskly without [making a noise] touching
ye. Canoe least the Indians Should hear them and that on coming
to the place aforementioned they landed & [proceeded] said
Collins & Waggoner proceeded to the house of said Wag-
goner where the Dep*. then was, & when they informed him
[ i1 ]
[ ]
[ ]
[ ] in particular [ ]
[ ] has heard the said Waggoner [
] the said affair in the same manner adding [
been discovered the Indians would certainly have killed [
& that he expected to have been very well payed for attend [ing]
said Collins, but never received more than two Rix Dollars [at
which he Was greatly distr] [essed] That during the last war
the Indians of Conajoharee occasioned a great alarm in that
Neighbourhood, threatning to murder the Inhabitants, and the
Dep1. was informed that the Cause thereof was their having been
cheated of their lands by the beforementioned Survey — and
further the Dep'. sayeth not —
1 Lines burned off.
Indian Uprising 995
CONCERNING GEORGE KLOCK
A.D.1
[-I763]2
1 it is unprecedented to make 2d. purchasing [from]
Inds. for Lands Pattented formerly, as also to run line [
& that unknown to the Indians, & they after doing [
2 Klock never paid ye. consideration money mentioned [
Deeds, not withstanding wh. Tillebagh3 then Justice [
3 with Klock) was an Evidence to them — Here I think Tille-
ba[gh] was wrong In signing wl. he must know to be false —
4th. The Deeds had no certificates or other Proof on ye. R [
Deeds Signed by Several, who have no right to sign them,
5th. Such as Shawanese, Oneidaes, Lower Mohawks & Child-
ren, wh. I can prove, as can also ye. Sachims & Klock must
own it —
6th. Ury Klock4 was ye. Person who helped to Settle the Rent
wh. the Tenants pay to the Inds. these many Years — this can
be proved by the Tenants —
7th. Not one Principal Sachim of Conajohare Signed ye. first
Deed, as can be proved by ye. Inds. and Eve Pickard.5
8th. The Deed on wh. the Pattent is founded does not Compre-
hend half the Land now claimed, as "p Said Deed will appear,
neither are the bounds by Sd. Deed, either clear or ascertained
1 The heading in Johnson Calendar, p. 197, reads: "Sir William
Johnson's category of charges and statements bearing on the dealings
of George Klock with the Indians, with a list of persons to be subpoenaed."
2 Date on the manuscript destroyed ; placed in Johnson Calender, at
the close of 1 763.
3 Lieutenant Wilhelmus Tillebagh (Dillenbach).
4 George (Ury) Klock.
5 Mrs. Eghye (Eve) Pickerd, a mulatto of Canajoharie.
996 Sir William Johnson Papers
9th. if Mr. Livingston1 &c knew their Title to be good, why
would they not give Klock & Fonda2 a Warrantee, ye. Deeds
will Shew that they have only given a quit Claim — or why
not divided as yet in 88 years. —
1 0th. Jacob G. Klock is Son to George Klock, & not qualified to
interpret — Jacob Forbes another of their Interpreters de-
clared to me he did not understand enough of ye. language to
interpret between Klocks Party, & the Inds. on ye. 9th. of
December as *p his Affidavit will appear, & yl. ye. Inds all
but one were unwilling to Sign Sd. Declaration
Justice Klock3 says Sd. Inds. except one (Colins alias negroe,
[Kloclf] a Creature of Klocks) also were unwilling to sign
Sd. Declaration
1 1 th. The Declaration of ye. 9th. Decbr. on wh. much Stress is
layed was Signed by 2 Men, their Wives, 2 of their small Chil-
dren & two Lads under Age, and those are called in Sd. Dec-
laration the Majority of the Indians of ye. Conajohare Tribe
— these [ one in Sd. Declaration Said to [
ye. General Meeting of y1. Castle ye. 1 0th. of last [
to say as will appear by the Minutes of Sd. [
by order of the Govr & Council in mine & the presence [
of his Majestys Justices of the Peace.
1 2th. Mr. Duncan4 one of the Party acknowledged in ye. presence
] the Justices ye. 10th. of March5 that Klock was a great
Rog[ue] that he plainly saw there had been a great deal of
dirty work made use of [to carry their point] in the Affair, &
was sorry he was concerned in it — his Letter of ye. 1 st May
1 Philip Livingston.
2 Jelles Fonda.
3 Jacob Klock.
4 John Duncan of the firm of Duncan and Phyn.
5 Meeting of the Indians on March 1 0, 1 763 summoned by Johnson at
the direction of Council of New York, Jan. 1 9, 1 763.
Indian Uprising 997
may also shew a good deal, but do not choose to make use of it
if I can avoid it, nor of Mr. Rutherfords1 dated 21st. Feb1?.
1763 —
Quere, Why that Pattent has never been divided, respecting David
Schylers Claim of 1 500 Acres according to Mr. P. Livingstons
letter to D. & P. Schyler ye. 1 0*. April 1 761 .
Hanjoost Klock Brother of Ury Klock after being Sworn
acknowledged wl. he had Swore to Mr. Hendk. Fry & Severall
others — Also to his Brother Jacob Klock who has Swore the
Same —
June 1 st. Jacob an Oneidae told me four or five days ago that he
was made Drunk by U Klock & Signed it, and that on being
asked lately to Sign some other paper, he told him he would
if paid for it, on my asking him why he would sign for Lands
he had no right to, He answered y'. was ye. reason of his
Willingness, Since Klock & Fonda were Fools or Knaves
enough to ask him when they knew it. —
Hance, alias Takarihogo the cheif Man who Signed the
late Deed for Klock, declares he was Drunk, & that before &
after he was always agst. parting w*. Sd. Land, and is
willing to declare ye. Same, as it is also Aughsaghrogo who
signed it drunk
1 Walter Rutherford.
998
Sir William Johnson Papers
] t Grower
[HendK Merkel]1
Hendk. Feling —
Peter Waggors Widdow
Thomas Davis —
Lenart Helmer —
Ladowick Crane —
John Heathcock —
Soloman Myer —
Hendk. Meyer —
Hannis Deifendorf —
{John Eisenlord] —
Jacob Forbes —
WM. Wormwood —
Eve Pickard —
[Frederic!? Saler] —
To be supoenaed
agst. Klock ; who say Klock
was ye. Man made a Bargn.
for them with ye. Inds. & sd.
it was the Inds. Lands — &
kept Rent Rool thereof
Tell w*. Livingston2 6t wife
Sayed concerning ye. Ind8.
Claim to ye Lands
Abl. Inds. being forced to
sign concerning ye. Survey
by night
Sayed he could get Klock
hanged if he would devulge
w*. he knew
Joost Klock — Says ye. Inds. were made drunk
Justice Klock —
Collin McCleland —
Peter Schyler —
[Peter Fuger of Stonerahy] —
WM. Fox
WM. Seber
Mrs. Schuyler
1 Names italicized and bracketed are crossed out in the original
manuscript.
2 Philip Livingston.
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