This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project
to make the world's books discoverable online.
It has survived long enough for the copyright to expire and the book to enter the public domain. A public domain book is one that was never subject
to copyright or whose legal copyright term has expired. Whether a book is in the public domain may vary country to country. Public domain books
are our gateways to the past, representing a wealth of history, culture and knowledge that's often difficult to discover.
Marks, notations and other marginalia present in the original volume will appear in this file - a reminder of this book's long journey from the
publisher to a library and finally to you.
Usage guidelines
Google is proud to partner with libraries to digitize public domain materials and make them widely accessible. Public domain books belong to the
public and we are merely their custodians. Nevertheless, this work is expensive, so in order to keep providing this resource, we have taken steps to
prevent abuse by commercial parties, including placing technical restrictions on automated querying.
We also ask that you:
+ Make non-commercial use of the files We designed Google Book Search for use by individuals, and we request that you use these files for
personal, non-commercial purposes.
+ Refrain from automated querying Do not send automated queries of any sort to Google's system: If you are conducting research on machine
translation, optical character recognition or other areas where access to a large amount of text is helpful, please contact us. We encourage the
use of public domain materials for these purposes and may be able to help.
+ Maintain attribution The Google "watermark" you see on each file is essential for informing people about this project and helping them find
additional materials through Google Book Search. Please do not remove it.
+ Keep it legal Whatever your use, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that what you are doing is legal. Do not assume that just
because we believe a book is in the public domain for users in the United States, that the work is also in the public domain for users in other
countries. Whether a book is still in copyright varies from country to country, and we can't offer guidance on whether any specific use of
any specific book is allowed. Please do not assume that a book's appearance in Google Book Search means it can be used in any manner
anywhere in the world. Copyright infringement liability can be quite severe.
About Google Book Search
Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers
discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web
at|http : //books . google . com/
Il
II
THE GIFT OF
■"■■" ■ wmmm^m
eOra CONGRESS ■ ■ Isr SESSION
DECEMBER 2. 1907-MAY 30, 19(^
SENATE DOCUMENTS
IN 36 VOLUMES
Vol. 16
WASaiHGTOM : : GOYERHMEMT PRIIOIKG OFHCE : : 1906
i&L.
CONTENTS
i^.^. -c i. H^^Lr.r.:^?! \r. »^ir* of M'jxi-'ar. K;,':£Apo'> It'iiAr^, to'. 3.
206543
^^TE {"""VSTi"^
AFFAIRS OF THE
MEXICAN KICKAPOO IXDIAXS
HEARINGS
BEFORE THE SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE
COMMITTEE OX INDIAN AFFAIRS
UNITED STATES SENATE
Df THBEE VOLODES
Vol III
APPENDIX
WA5HIXGTOX
GOVERXMEVT PRINTIXG OFFICE
On December 7, 1907, the subcommittee of the Committee on Indian Affaire of the
United States Senate to investigate the affairs of the Mexican Elicking Kickapoo
Indians,
Ordered. That the lettere, affidavits, and other exhibits offered and made a part of
the records of the hearings before a subcommittee of the Committee on Indian Affaire
from February 8, 1907, to March 5, 1907, and of a subcommittee of the Committee on
Indian Affsdre from November 1, 1907, to December 7, 1907, be published as an Appen-
dix to the hearings of the subcommittees and made a x>art of the record thereof.
APPENDIX.
^ [Senate reeohitloii No. 79, Fifty-ninth Congnee, fliet eeeeion.]
In the Senate of the United States, February 14, 1906. — Considered and agreed to.
Mr. Penrose submitted the following resolution:
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be, and hereby is, directed to report to
the Senate of the United States the reason, if any he has, why he has not issued, as pro-
vided by an act of Congress approved March third, nineteen hundred and five, patents
in fee simple to Okenuih and his wife Thithequa, Wahnahkethehah, Noten, Tahpahthca,
Shuckequah, and Neconopit, members of the Kickapoo tribe, heretofore allotted in the
Territory of Oklahoma for land so allotted to them in said Territory. That the said
Secretary be directed to further report wh)r he has withheld payment to the Kickapoo
Indians residing in the Republic of Mexico of the funds received by him for said
Indians as the proceeds of tne leases upon their individual lands in the Territo^ of
Oklahoma.
He is further directed to transmit to the Senate all correspondence between his office
or the bureaus thereof and his agents pertaining to investigations of the removal of the
said Kickapoo Indians to the Republic of Mexico and their present condition in said
Republic, together with all reports of inspectors or other officers of the Interior Depart-
ment pertainmg to said subjects, and the testimony taken by such officers or agents.
He IS further directed to transmit to the Senate all reports of investigations made by
inspectors of his Department into the conduct and busmess transactions of ex-special
United States Agent Martin J. Bentlev, detailed in charge of the Kicking Mexican
Kickapoo Indians in Oklahoma during his entire term of service.
[H. R. 15331, Fifty-ninth Ck>ngre88, first aessfon.l
In the Senate of the United States. March 6, 1906. — Referred to the Committee on
Indian Affairs and ordered to be printed.
AMENDMENT Intended to be proposed by Mr. Clapp (by request) to the bill (H. R. 15331) making
appropriations for the current and continieent expenses of the Indian Department and for fulfilling
treaty stipulations with various Indian tribes lor ihe flsoal year ending June thirtietli, nineteen hun-
dred and seven, and for other puiposes, viz : Insert the following:
That so much of the act of March third, nineteen hundred and five (Thirty-third
Statutes at Large, page one thousand and forty-ei^ht), as reads as follows, "That the
Secretary of the interior be, and is hereby, authorized and directed to issue patents in
fee to Okemah and his wife Thithequa, Wahnahkethehah, Noten, Tahpahthea, Shuck-
equah, and Neconopit, members of the Kickapoo tribe heretofore allotted in the Terri-
tory of Oklahoma for lands so allotted to them, in said Territory, and all restrictions as
to sale, incumbrance, or taxation of said land are hereby removed,'' be, and hereby is,
repealed.
Statement of Martin J. Bentley.
The resolution which was a£^eed to in the United States Senate, directing the Secre-
tary of the Interior to advise the Senate why he had not issued patents to the Kickapoo
Indians, as directed by the act of March 3, 1905. relates to seven Kickapoo Indians who
voluntarily put their land into a pool, to be sold and to provide a fund m\i\.^\As2t^\o
purchase a home for all the Kickapoos in Mexico. Those seveii '^^xXxcviX'w ^jJAoVavcoXB
1884 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAK KIOKAPOO IKDTAKS.
were selected for this purpose by the Kickapooe because some of them were valuable
on account of being near the city of Sha¥me€, and others were the allotments of aged
and childless persons. These lands were to be taken and disposed of; each of the
allottees was to at first receive some small sum of money, and after the land had been
purchased, and a tract satisfactory to them, if any monev remained, after deducting the
necessary expenses incurred in the transaction, any balance should be paid to the
Indians according to their several interests. It is contended by the Department that
the Indians were not paid a sufhcient sum for these lands, when, as a matter of fact, the
agreement with the Indians was made in good faith and has been carried out as far as
possible, and the only reason that the entire deal has not been consummated has l)een
that the Department of the Interior has not done as the law directed, and has thrown
insurmountable obstacles in the way of lands being acquired in Mexico by sending its
agents there to prejudice the Government against permitting the Indians to acquire
Iwids in Uiat country.
The property that the Kickapoos have elected to own in Mexico, and oi^ which to
establisn txieir permanent homes, is a tract of land containing 238,000 acres, and now
grazes 10,000 head of white-faced cattle, and out of the herds ranging upon this land
fine beef cattle may be taken at any season of the year. The tract of land is an enor-
mous basin, and is beyond question the choicest grazing land in the entire Republic.
Is surrounded by mountains, which practically fence it, some of them rising to an ele-
vation of nearly 9,000 feet. Beyond these mountains lie the great desert wastes of
Mexico, 80 designated not because the lands are barren of vegetation, but because no
surface water is found. These lands abound with black-tail deer, and will probably
for centuries to come be an ideal hunting ground. It has been demonstrated that this
species of deer practically live without water. The enormous yucca with its bloom
stem, though like yucca namentosa, but a thousand times larger, is full of moisture and
blooms almost constantly, and while it kills and ^isons the cattle kind it does not
poison the deer, because he is of the bovine species that has no gall. The plan pro-
posed is that the cattle on this large ranch shall not only furnish the Indians a laige
j^art of their subsistence, but will yield a revenue sufficient to provide their other
limited necessities, and that when their estate in the United States is finally disposed
cf that enouffh of their funds be invested in bonds of the Republic of Mexico, so that the
interest on uiese bonds will forever pay the taxes on their estate there.
Department of the Interior, Office of Indian Affairs,
Washingtony August 9, 1902,
Hon. M. S. Quay,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir: Your favor of the 7th instant, inclosing communication from Mr. Martin J.
Bentley, of Shawnee, is at hand. After consultation with the Secretary, and upon
looking over conditions at Shawnee, we have decided to change the situation at tnat
place, and to place the Indians under the charge of the bonded superintendent of the
8(*hool. While I am willing to conce<le that Mr. Bentley has done a great deal of good
among these Indians, I think the time has arrived when the i)08ition of agent can be
dispensed with. Nothing in Mr. Bentley's conduct of affairs has influenced this
course. I return communication from Mr. Bentley.
With kind regards, I am, yours, truly,
W. A. Jones, Commissioner,
Department of the Interior, Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, December 19, 1900.
M. J. Bentley, Esq.,
Assistant Special United States Indian Agent, Shawnee, Oila.
Sir: The office acknowledges receipt of your letter dattxi December 1 , 1900, wherein
you Htate that eight or ten aged and infirm Indians are bent on retuniinp to Mexico
wh(»re their children reside, and from whom they have been separated for twenty-five
years.
You state that the lands of these Indians are under lease for sums sufficient to sup-
port them if permitted to go to Mexico; that they are supplied with ample funds and
no aid from tne Government.
In reply you are advised that this Office knows of no law that would prevent or
hin<ler the peaceable departure of the Indians you refer to from their present homes.
The Office assumes no responsibility whatsoevdr in the matter.
Ver\- rer^oectfuUy,
W. A. Jones, CommiiiUmer.
AFFAIKS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1885
Departmbnt of the Intebior, Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington^ Auguit 19, 1902.
Mr. Martin J. Bentley,
Shawnee^ Ohla.
Mt Dear Mr. Bentley: Your personal favor of the 14th instant received.
As I stated in my letter to Senator Quay, nothing in your record had anything to
do with the determination of the OflSce to change the situation at Shawnee. It is in
pursuance of a set policy adopted by the Office for the last two years of doing away
as soon as possible with agents and to devolve the duties upon superintendents of
schools. In fact, I want to congratulate you on the progress made by the Mexican
Kickapoos since they have been in your charge. I feel sure that although you will
not be connected with them officially, you wul still feel a friendly interest in their
welfare and will always be glad to give them any advice they may need. It is not
known definitely what time the transfer will be made, but matters have so far
progressed that it will not be possible to recall them at the present time.
With kind regards, I am, yours, truly,
W. A. Jones, Commissioner,
Extract from Senate Report No. 5689, Flfty-nlnih Congress, second §ettlon, to accom-
pany H. R. S2580.
Claim of Kicking Kickapoos.
This matter was before the committee at the last session of Ck>ngress and the pro-
vision for their relief was inserted in the bill by the committee. Tne Senate adopted
the amendment so far as it related to some money then in the Treasury, but rejected
the amendment so far as it related to payment for the lands, being the item now
reported.
In support of the amendment the committee inserts its report of last session.
[Seziate Report No. 2661, Fifty-nlntli Congress, first session.]
OKLAHOMA.
KICKINO KICKAPOOS.
History of (hat tribe or hand of Indians known as Mexican Kickapooi.
On October 25, 1824, the Kickapoo Indians, in company with the Shawnee Indians,
presented themselves to the alcalde of the city of Austin, in the then Republic of
Mexico, to whom they stated that they were being crowded and pursued by the Anglo-
Saxon race in the ^orth, and that they desired to acquire land and a home witli
the Mexican people. This alcalde took up the matter with his superior officer, the
governor of the province, representing to him that the Shawnees and those affiliating
with them were both ** entertaining and industrious," and he believed that if they
were given some territory to the north of the capital, which was often in those days
raided and harassed by the attacks of the Wacos, Comanches, and other hostile and
refractory Indians, who then lived in and infested that region, they would be a pro-
tection to the capital.
The King of Spain, Charles III, made a concession to these Indians, granting to
them all that tract of country lying north of where the San Antonio road crosses the
San Angelo River, the boundary to continue up said river to its source, then east
to the Saibine River, and down said river to the crossing of the San Antonio road,
and accordingly the Kickapoos, Shawnees, and some Cherokees and Delawares,
who affiliated with them, settled upon this tract, where they resided trom about
the year 1825 to 1842, at which time the Indians had one permanent village on this
tract, containing more than 700 inhabitants.
The provisioiSd government of Texas, during the time it was a republic, through
its duly appointed commissioners, made a treaty with these Indians wherein this
grant to them was ratified . Afterwards a second treaty was made whereby the Repub-
lic of Texas acquired this tract, and the Indians were, by consent and at the expense
6t the State, moved to another grant of land, 40 miles souare, northwest of the pres-
ent capital of Texas, which is known and designated in the annals of Texas as a serv-
ice grant. The Indians occupied this tract and the plains of western Texas until
the time of the early dotation preceding the civil war. When Gen. Sam Houston
counseled with the Indians and persuaded them to move out of the State of Texas^
he advised them that there was going to be war and that they had b^Uj» \£i!^N^\£L\A
1886 AFFATBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
the Indian Territory where they would be less liable to molestation, and accordingly
the Indians moved* Some settled on the Little lied River, in southwestern Indian
Territory, and the Shawnees and Kickapoos settled farther north. The Shawnees
occupied the country along the Little River, which is now in Pottawatomie County,
Okla., and the Kicka]H>os occupied the countrv along the North Canadian River and
Souirrel Creek, between the present cities of Shawnee and Tecumseh, Okla.
The acute agitation growing out of the civil war proved exceedingly annoying to
these wild Indians. First the North and then the South appealed to the Indians to
take sides with them. The Shawnees, who were their neignbors on the South, were
loyal to the United States; they removed to Walnut, Kans., where the able-bodied
members of the tribe enlisted, and became a part of Company K of the Fourteenth
Kansas Cavalry. The Seminoles, who occupied the country immediately to the east,
were owners of slaves, and naturally sympathized with the South. ChieJf Big Greorge
(Mah che ma net ) , of t he Kickapoos, who in history should be known as their Tecumsen,
said to his people, '' Wo do not understand what these white people are wanting to fight
about; none of them have injured us, and why should we stain our hands with their
blood? We will leave and go to the wilds of Texas, and take no part in this fight."
And, accordingly, the Kickapoos, in the early fall of 1862, broke camp and started
south a thousand strong, their objective point being the Little Concho River, Tom
Green County, Tex. In December of that year they arrived at the ranch of William
Tankersley, which is 2 miles from the present town of Knickerbocker, Tex.
Mr. Tankersley, who, though very old, is still living and prominently known in
Texas, states that the Kickapoos appeared at his ranch, having with them a large herd
of horses, in the early winter of 1862. Though alone at his nome, he states that he
invited the Kickapoos to camp, which they did, getting water from his well to prepare
their dinner, and that he sold them such provisions as he could spare. He had known
many of them years before. They had assisted him in recovering stock that had been
stolen from him by the Comanches and other thieving Indians who then roamed over
the great plains of Texas. He says he invited them to make a permanent camp on his
possessions on the river, 4 miles from his ranch house, and that after dinner thev pro-
ceeded to the ploce designated by him. The next day a large company of ( onfeAerate
cavalry appeared at his place, inciuiring for the Kickapoos. He assured the officer in
command that he need not be concerned about the KicKapoos — that they were friendly
and would, during the war, be a protection to him and the neighboring ranchmen
r' QSt the raids of other hostile Indians who had become emboldened because of the
nee of many of the Texans, who were absent on account of the war. To this the
officer replied that the Kickapoos had many fine horses, which interested him more
and would be of more value to the Confederacy than Indian friendship, and he pro-
ceeded to pursue and attack the Kickapoos.
When tne Indians saw the cavalry approaching, they sent forward an old buck
bearing a white Hag, and accompanied by an aged squaw on either side. As soon as
the cavalry came within range, this trio was ruthlessly shot down and the main camp
charged upon. Though not anticipating this attack, the Indians offered stubborn
resistance, and 16 cavalrj-men fell from their horses, mortally wounded. Then the
cavalry retreated for reenforcements, and did not venture to return for their dead for
two days. The Kickapoos hastened to break camp, and started for Mexico, thinking
that Texas had declared war upon them, and the path of death they left behind them is
a matter of Texas history. They forded the Rio Grande River and entered Mexico at
the north end of the Sierra del Carmin Range. They followed down this range far into
the State of Coahuila, finally taking up their home at Nacimiento.
The whole region around this place was then occupied by the fierce and murderous
Lipans, Apaches, and Comanches, who had driven the Mexican population entirely
out of the northern part of the State and as far south as the city of Muzquis, Mexico.
The State and Federal authorities welcomed these Indians, because they were a
protection to the peaceful native population of the country and in remembrance of
the protection that these same Inaians had been to them when Texas was a part of
the Republic, in 1824. The President, Benito Juarez, made a service grant to them
and a treaty with them, by the terms of which the Kickapoos agreed to and did render
the Mexican army valuable service in exterminating the Lipans and in subduing and
driving the Comanches beyond the borders of Mexico.
Thus it will be seen that these Indians, from 1824 to 1874, a period of fifty years,
had lived practically all their lives either in Texas, when it was a part of Mexico, or
in the present Republic. As a matter of fact all the Kickapoo Inaians of the age of
20 years or over, at the time of the opening of their land in Oklahoma, were native-
bom Mexicans. Even Big Jim (Wan pah meh ah peto) (Plain Straight Road) the
Uft chief of the Shawnees and the grandson of Tecumseh, was bom on the Angelo
River, in what was then Mexico, where he died. By reason of their nativity and of
Awr^nm or isb icexicas kktkafoo ixhjuuu 1q^7
r IfiestQ^ liKar ^taobf'r.
F«r fipx^mi pnR jeiiir <iiif^ crri3 mr iiji»7 <tcisnsn»ff4 ^^ laaA ^t/^ oomHtrr cmm 4f itte
■iixin* AH!yy» Ti»> Ea'.- «jci»iit'>fr fcjT.tr. iri,*r% i^^tT- ir«i»t vxm^ ww^ aij« ^dmidfir. ▲
^at. Mu^ iift»7 ir»9»r A duufLuui jr^iBPtitr 'Cd ii;23f '/Tuocfjtr jB&i Hiin;,)!! ^ <i^ iicMtr sadiciH
ai»SL *^ T*5L».
^ssB^syptA 8b pfHrwm^ liiAfiK' hSkA lax-jt^ -Jcri^fBu ^jnJL^ MifrTLMjoi iM^^jttnn ir^ tixfOi wy^^
^t• 1^ ^i' «GsKXi^ E£i:%Er.. jou^ lii*- I^^-i^itt , uu^jir ^^ ihtt 'ftoifcr a^ -ir<«r»' ssljiciis**- irwm
I2i»- £^.^affii«^ ibuf«r>'iEiLko<i.. I:.ai& aiaikar ir^ut ii«£- Kii^ <^ji2aab6it- fcj^i*v 331 t^ msL^rum 4i
ji aurHiiwy «z^^t«tC;aiik!-^iiiL. xsA w§,^m titur roam vi>^^ lib*- wH^ mmi 2^ ii»*- <iiiiif4iff)«zj itad
'i«iBL -ui^ 3^ i^iAMts y^jm^ aok'^ iaisi/»«(S wk^i ib^ iMOsakj w%«n: livcy w^tit: vtam-
jKBSB^ l/^ at yrmxusa ^d wmt m Sink AMA'Mm>^ J*^
vm if "tit*- VLki' H-MLiik*: n^ii'J iiLt':'»- Tina iT< jii'SHjiitf **'^p*iifl 'lai^jHTur*- t^ "in*t Am»«v.a(ai
iKat^laiyBWff.. fiS«Ssr<»iiSt liiia uzu^ aa«di lllSiCi^ iit»^ niKJi^LkJiitid «eftnfmt:tiiiKaau':Qi iir^«% ^r ka
4ML iMEUfnm^t:^ "Vifi^ BASAat"^ tii«a ^^ifiSi^ ifH^A^ Eflnr>tA.
5ur JA jhTirnfctflg 4^ ^ mi^ I^jt <tai(^ liit<8tifln A 't^iiiibaS wiff £(»M. Jiaid m litki frjvikGd
ii i^iur lMft& ab s?T»9aJST, Lmtisr MStMf^iiAt^ ^jmtj;^ me i««&^ naa^ 1^ Iii<mis wjfl.t«d J0
yMiiifl ssftttj l^iiA tiiii tmm HM lii^iaiid RfO^n^ ^M0> i^ ^tnnisiit ^h^ ^.rfimmznimaffm m
m SjBtmiULjfui mmsrvsgafjOL, Lb 27 aft^:.at«»^ . ^>. Jt^p^^^ao iritss y^ns^ k^ t**- sl luvtlKn'
adMft JupiKfi ^ ^kt Hf&Bat TfttiW :^ ibt*- irji;^ A< a iwtAib^ d ibr.t ti»»9i^ idODM* v«9»
im^ns^ JM apt intf^ 'v^trf it^m -ti^a^^uifitf so&Ebi^s :€ p*ru*«f» ^$ru'i- ts^i^tr a^id u&t -txiA «r
irifi' <■& ftUI 2ifinir W a^tstii^^ ^.Oi ^i«^ ^r,«2ii«^ii£i mm »:i^.^ auH&e-- A i^-v taa !«(:. aai4
rtmyjiigiiiiQ I IT II J JBDEJ m^^at^fiootif^^m^ vaA ^^m -mm i<M^jw^ itt ub% ^sxros^i'f jsib*- 6t:ffiro£SB6A
■iyMeMKyt- fmaa^a^ "d 4^«%r Jioxd iriki "ir^s^yi.. 't^si -v^sikiii li&iT^^ lu'-.ciriitt "^ w^mtt mtaietB
IM idSftic fr 'icrrok ^.<f -rr^STmn^ 'jtf lAiaf f^Buantfi^ff said kb<3 nK^ot w kiB^ p«Kitkall]r
line ^ausaxL d 1^ 3l iria^^X' trii^ im^^irs ic Karirary Kjdkx^jw Atadsir ii»i)B«4
atet 0 aw Wif^^r.ifcL OidiL.. mM Jbuu^ i^oa i£b2 tx»«ML n^i jtscd*- i:r fifii'.fi pip^jML
TlfcYiun Jijij <ii MUiMHt iiM wthwi^. Mfti«i- ^Knx^ i& ▼Lr..^' «iHi':yras. viio^ Y'^aitr dk«Biaub4-
1888 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
ing possession, and in the winter of 1896 the Indian agent then in charge of the agency
having under its jurisdiction the Kickapoos had recommended to the Denartment of
the Interior that a company of cavalry be sent from Fort Reno to assist tne a^nt in
forcibly ejecting the Indians from these school lands, and to aid him in herdmg the
Indians out on tneir allotments in the North Canadian Vallev. 15 miles south from the
school lands. He thought the presence of the cavalry woula aid him in compelling
the Indians to accept their allotments and to cause them to recognize his authority
over them.
The Kickapoos in some way became aware of his intentions, and a delation consist-
ing of their strongest men came to Washington to see the President, and to learn from
bis own lips if the supposed great and good Government of the United States was going
to insist on this lying^ as they put it, and fraudulent treaty being put into effect by
military force. Notwithstanding the fact that this treaty paid them 35 cents an acre
for their land, when the other more civilized tribes surrounding their reservation who
could speak English were paid $1.25 and $1.50 an acre, and that everybody connected
with the Government knew that the treaty was the basest kind of foreor>^ and deception,
the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, the "Hon. D. M. Browning, told them when they
called on him that they were a pack of dirty, kicking scoundrels, and ordered them out
of the Indian Office, and warned them not to return, sent his messenger to Beveridge's
Hotel, telling the proprietor to kick them out into the street: that they were a lot of
dirty, kicking vagabonds; that the Government had no use lor them, and would not
pay for any subsistence or shelter that he might pive them.
They then appealed to President Cleveland who, in the presence of the writer, told
them that he was aware that they had been robbed and deceived; that he was
ashamed of his countrymen for such doings; that, while he could not undo the great
wrong that had been done them, he was willing, so far as was in his power, to aid
them; that they should not only be fed and sheltered while in Washington, but should
be provided with clothes and any other necessities; that if they would try to make the
best of their sad situation he would ask Congress to appropriate money to enable them
to erect new homes and to improve their lands and to start life anew, and that he would
permit them to nominate their own agents.
Both the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, in view
of having so harshly treated the Indians, and of their prejudice against them, because
they would not yield to imposition, strongly opposed the President's disposition, and
the Secretary insisted that they should not be permitted to nominate their agents,
but the President's well -known will prevailed, and he in every way fulfillwl his
Sromise to the Kickapoos. This just and reasonable treatment inspired the confi-
ence of the Indians, out increased the prejudice of the Indian Department against
them, and the heads of the divisions of the Indian Office from that day to this have
despised the Kickapoo Indian.
Tlie Indians, unaer the new condition brought about by the President's interfer-
ence, moved onto their allotments, built houses, broke new lands, and became tillers
of the soil in earnest, and in 1901 they were in a prosperous and progressive condition.
At this time the Department over their protest put them under the jurisdiction of a
bonded school superintendent, and a new and different policy was adopted. In a few
weeks after this change their mules were stolen and driven away by white people; a
trader's store was established by friends of the agent, near the agency, which aestroyed
the credit of the Indians elsewhere, and with the result that the Indians had to pay
twice as much for goods as they had heretofore.
The renegade element of neighboring tribes found that they could prey upon these
Indians, and without interference, and the Kickapoos again fell into a state of dis-
affection; they said, "The Government has quit our agent and we will quit the Gov-
ernment and go back to Mexico, where we can have our own agents and have some
voice in the conduct of our affairs." And they moved, and would be contented and
successful in their new location if their affairs could be taken entirely out of the hands
and control of the Indian Department, and they left to do for themselves as the other
half of the tribe has done for forty years in Mexico.
A special agent was detailed auring the summer of 1905, by the Department, who
visited the President of the Republic of Mexico and the governor of the State in which
the Kickapoos had their home, advising the executive ofhcers of the Federal and
State governments that a renegade element of wild American Indians was being
locatea in their country, and against the will and wish of the United States, and that
his great and good Government nad sent him to warn its sister Republic of the character
and of the danger of these undesirable emigrants.
That one vicious disreputable white man had induced the Indians to come into
their country, and to properly portray the character of this man he cited the gulli-
bility of the Ajnerican Congress, and the fact that the great Department of the Interior
AFTJOMS OF THE MEXHTjUT KlCSJtFfjO IXmAXS. 18^9
&«£ iBU! IxBi tie' Ifexko Su ni7^>ffl-iisiu:«r lati r^pcm wigr^h^r -x ncr zkm wMse inaii hod
«&«?««- 5epr»s«irwkdi:na. b* €iii'r;<*fi -in* lai A2iti fuppin ''A "iie ^xdcszl cniirTa. sod
flBKexuEOSS amii p»ih£''-a2ra n^ ▼•nt fnc:^ ''iiar. -jie par j laisailiiti -vag fyjsr^f^lAfi Vi nKk
flSfis^ss hv mtftriumziar fnis ra diift U!ir>»fi -•r^s^s 'i2»iiiiiT: '-nnrr: &'.r dtmacs- in<i !ifh«L
Tte ntsr&rsir^iu w^ick w:» nir^tid Vj ci nln*- Tiixr^ 5rAn« Senas*. &i5f.i±i^ ^he
SeKTwar? -.f 'iit Iii::>ini'.r s.-. -ni ^W -ii<* Stuart*- viij h** hAii ni->t ^gu«ti p&z^nzi to c^
Er.fcwiie ImSunf. m ^-r^.^j^i bj ±<»: ai:?: J Mxr^A I. W^, v^^fiA v, ae-Tiai Eickatpo©
ffufrhaiff W&5 v.&rncariry jirn riu»^ ^jmrf irCi: a peel v. bit frdi ^mxt Zfj ptr.^i* & ftsad
wMl whix^JiL v. pnrr-aaflft a bx-.trj^ 4:r aH 'iusr Kiiikapo-^ ni yb^Tdcxt. T^iwe seTwi p«r-
t&em ^¥»«Rr w^:wbtl^ '31 aeciiisin ':c beintr ^^ zha -lizj -£ &jkir2ie^, xnd -.cheEs went
9#iflefi '\£ tuvJk rsi r^t^: alk<rr«» ^ne r^ as: ir??: r»i:»*iT*- «rjGu»- yrrarf fozsL if mr.c**?-, sziid
t6iec t^te bad kid b«ifsi p«ir''!ia&4%tL snd a 'jrvit jftCi^i^^'.rT r^ cbaou ^ slj money
awnaaniHl, aCu« feiaiiT^ng -Jirt- nitrft!aiKj eipEQaai intrirr»il in du»- cnKcaactasB^ isj
B: » (^aiLC«uiftd hj rJie LeciirniLeiir. r,h;kc zhi& Iniiioaa -w^iri*- m^t pitai a «r^i»figwg 9mm
fcr fSiBK- ^uid». ▼%«!, Aft A rnacner of sbj't, iLit acr»wci«»Tir. -viiiL -£& gnt-Hbati* -^aft m«le
BL ^TKd fassJiL And oas buca C277ii»d r>rji as sir as p#-.g5ib'>. Aziii die '^ulj m^ifif-.a ii&at
SBBT ^a» aoc ^^otfr A» fi&jft liiTF iirfifvrjiii. jtnii bo** "Jir.'Fii imflxrnn.ii^j'.Abte ^b^udies ofe
tie •»t!A7- ^ hoiis b«MTSg AitqTir»fl ni >f*x:«:r, bj leniiinir r::* Ajpair^ riLt»r» v. pr»j:i*iici8:
Till?- &mp««ii7 t±AS 'ie KyirAigcca barr* *i»*f:r«»ii r^j •-'jra □. ifexii^.r.. And on wbiriL ca»
4flaki^iiidL nLexr p«*gniani»nr. hi:QK». is a Trib.r. '^f l;^kzui ccnr^kining '^i:tj>i^ Ar.T«s Aod qa^
mai*» M*.!!®^ ^eaii of wiiE**^4r,i»d '"iSuie. jtnii :iiu of die hig^:^ rari'sTT.g 'xpr.o. zhm Lsmd
me b^« ^jizzJlg- maiT be t:A.k«tt at. izrj ^<*a»-,ti -.f ;±e yiMfcr- Tbe "x^^.i x'jxzd m asi ^n^r-
iiinii» biiffi2i :K(iii B fc^Tnfsd "pnwir.a "ie '^.bi-w',i»5fi; Tricstui hmd& ni riie ensir* Rcpcibfe;
» josmnBi^ed ^ airi<CTTj«inff -Ftur-b pcAr^*.^y'Qenxift'nL ^r^me of iij«xL nsn^ to as
«iif73Cina <5f iiftffiy fJ-.i^lW* feiK b#^7^.tiil -iu*!* ariixnrjtcift lie ibe ^r^»aJ: ^Sftawi: Tf^ieas
if Ifesiifjv — «i ittssraxPj^fL nxrx bef-Oiiaft -.be lusiiitj Ant barrsi -x T^jrscAni-.tL, bus be«:a3iaer
2X0 rnvthtzit Tracer ia aonniL
THu'-wr !aHiiii+ Ahri»md wiriL btai-Jr-u- ie*r ac*! vJI pr-.bahbr aor o?»nSiine!i to <y.nic
ae AIL afeai hiULOS^ ffmiaii, fe bae b»^«i bf*nii:c^nrar»r^i ^naz tibia ipecie of <ieer pout-
X£tjj£tr E*7«»: irxiu-iii w^ter, Tbe ^nr.nn'.ria 7-ir.a. vjiii ba bicooL fD^oi- tibciigb. Eke
pii!a> t^miefi&'JSL bits a iRi-naaiiii Tiai<ts '.orT^r :i» f^.H :c inAsTrr^r" An*i bixma ALnrj«
^msHf^smx:^. Aod i^tulje is ^Tfa and pr»ai:cj* riie ''.j^iiie knnii i^: .:i:*=^ ni'.i: pr.tariii ti&e 4«*<?fv
becHiae- Se i» of tie fao^risie foeritrs jtr.<l bae nj-. rail Tbe piiiii pr:p':«ed i» di:K die
-taccie 'in tiia Sicje onck sfiAll iir.c -.nrT t-jr^t. -^»* Inii-.i^it* a laui* part of dierr sib^
flHcemte. :inz ^dT jieitt a K-s-tnue ir,jfjia«^iu; v. pr;-;'.*::^ ■**ieir <;tber limised se<y«R-gi«*&>
ant duic irfu«L tieir *sCAs:e lh ibe U:2_:-.'^i ^r.iir.-^ lif inalrj -bitfccgeii if ^has *ni:»igiL of
tieir nrmfe fee i2LT*sc«*d izi bcoia :f "iie Ei»p':h L- .f 5€*xjgI, sr. ^Jiai ibe iiitJ»««c on 5b**ae
anuda wiS fenrrer pajy '^e raojA "in -iietr '*fflr-L-<r -iier»_
EiT I>stA3t«C2.: T^ 05iAbi;ma ElrLiprx Indiajia. T^br. Sav* beim wk&m tte
Iixnoa "if aiT por^ ffiu^e liej '^aaie '-s^r ^: -iu* <taiii3r7, "iril aie mas p^n birr* bei?a
•ieir arieniL Ajcui tierftfi-in*^ r^L«5ac i2.e r^i Trr.-r^ -»; 7011- ri'^jng jon. an ui-^a. of -iieir
jRui^iB bere. ACii agS'^g j:yi V; 3fte ibj^r, -iieir -ir-r t}*r. siiiniey liiti leskse aaiiney ihjoiiid
be 3'.r¥arrfed to liem. «: Eagie Fa^. T-ii,
Tbi*7 ^nrfef^ocd tisK a 'nm»:r hie rntie a.rii riias nbey at* aBotis ta rtcujn to ti«
Cmxiirt *taK«. feef!A3iae die Kexiiiaa.'^'jT'.'^-niii^rnr. biuf ori^r*d rieni to ka^^ ri^e
eannopy. T<i aO of w&ieb. diey lak sie ti; x:^ ^ a ±^.t. ;:i.I ji ibtrir >>^r,iaJ-
Fir iKj p«re I ^oBt iCJKe sbai ->be l^^xx'ar. <>:^-r:izirr!i^ jj z^in ir. aZ -jp^^aed tK di*ar
-■ie?Tie jc to ^Tarimieato on tdie lnuA^ :f -ii.- K^T.-az. Ki^^kApr.ca. For Ainbi:ng!i -.be-
CjftittlirMTitt And XftxicaBi £iiek^'>«.a &eu.ti^ ;.; ibe *ame tiriBe And^ aiitrscT'if , it? cni^
lIKi^ MMWJom €m rsuL mexicaji kickafoo ibohass.
wm.rM ^nxsmboomtt^bo^ f^gt»r»rftf^— ma'ig cwri flscnggwrt poflRlkl«^ far instance,
li>r><^r «ul fcr>tltt«r, fafilBftf aaui «m^ tafstiker sod »»— di« OoTermmgct deems it more
<fMir^<n!ii#^A« 16 ]b^t&i«»m sport- Ml watof adilligrv^iEtopciuaaCaa^
iMt ykettk I w«ist tA !Mi»iu6& Ccty gr> «^ occr Pr«fi;d<eat^ D, For&to Diiaz, aEmtxt this aftiir.
1 tr^>&ft aiy hf^ tf^ trm^eis^ htm f4 the advantai^ which mifi^ be bad hr rejoiniDg
%^k^^)» hoA to leare afpkira the laod o€ ^^d Xa#:imieTitr>/' on wiikh tltej had estab-
ibHlUii ek^tiMi^ea fii^ aft^^r reinmm^ to tlus crmnftrr, CDfwrierio^ that place was
^kmvf hcM^ wheats ti^ had anived &> ^taj. The Prestdect. ae weil a» the secretary of
<^»^>AijEMUir>i»>^ tf^ MsamM OynzaJeft Cociiri , t/M me the sod lodiazis cikht bay some hmded
fff%^^«*rrt7 ^''^ tsem wherer>ii tr> tire vrthrmt any fear o€ bet2% tzoabled as knp as they
w^vM 6l»«y the law aivi renfyerrt the propiefty of the hmdrmiiefs when hmtting or cottiiig
tiMftW, a^ m fr>fth.
flbb k fiye^,«tefy what thf:ae Indiaot have been abo^ ance then. At present they
mt^ fxmmAmtsnf^ t£e prirrhatve fA fdihf^t the hacienda De Piedra Blanca^ or that of Zi-
tmt^. The ^Im Aamerl ift very fahable for cattle raisine and smrjunded by extennve
Amva^miC ^^^tf^ m the n^i^intaim. It is situated at aSoat 40 leai^es northwest from
jM^fft^ ^ <'>«her, a very fthr>rt d»tance fropm the to/wn^ is all ftrst-c!» farming land with
a» alyrmdaf^;e f4 water fr/r irrigatioti. But what can the>' do witho^ut hanng at their
4w^^ the ttifmf^ tf» whiVh Ihc^ are entitle*!, or at least being sure of getting it in
Uh^"^ Thefeir>fe, tl*/-^' *hafl he very grateful to you, dear Father, if jT>a will have the
fcfftdrwtMi t/f help th^rTA %ft g^-t their money. Before concluding this letter allow me
Uf .<rta«er the UMf^it^ i^^ :
FirHl, The Ku:kai^/fm cfmxiflf^ Mexico as their country, in accordance with the
ifadHioDkf of th^rir inl>e ^with rf-^rd to their traditions, I may mention that they keep
with ^^^ <«aire two havt-^iz/fA filvfT medaLf of merit with the rf^«pective diplomas.
M#dafU fitande de Merfzo de Capitan, with which King CharU^ 1 1 1 of Spain decorated
two of their ehiz-i*;,
^'//nd. The Ki^kan Oovemm^mt under Benito Juarez rewarded their valuable
mrvU'fm In the war againift the h^Mile trib^-s of the Comanrbeg, Lipans, and others
with the grant f4 two nfinzrfa earh of land at El Nacimiento.
Third, The Oklahoma Kirrkafioos went to the Indian Territorj' a little more than
thirty y#rant agri, uftt frbontanr^>u«ly, but obliged by force, for in 1874 a Captain Mac-
K^my/if, making with rii« mAdifm an inroa^l mto this State, came to El Nacimiento
wh^rfi fft^M (A the Indtann Wf/re absent on a hunting expedition, and after capturing
all ihp'. Ifidiarm he rr^jld take by surprise, principally women and children, ne took
tl^rtn along Ut the l'nit^;<l States as priiioners of war. Of this 1 myself have been an
^ffwhfifrtm.
Thanking ytm f/<^^>rehand Ifjt anything you may do in favor of the Oklahoma Kicka-
pfftmf i r^miain, d'^ar Fathr^r,
Veiy sin/r^rrely, y^mn in Christ,
Francisco de P. Andres,
PrabxUrt, Muzpuiz, Coahuila,
DWARTMRVT or THE INTERIOR, OpHCE OF INDIAN AFFAIRS,
Washington, April 5, 1906,
(fmirmnn H^rmtf, dmnmittee on Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.
HtH: fn rf-ntfffun*' Ut the oral rernH-^t of your committee, at the inptanro of Senator
I A Folhfile, Uff a rej^/rt on an amendment Ui the Indian appnjpriation bill which he
ha/l in mind Up \frn]pfmt', J b#^ U) Hiibmit the following:
TlMf arn^'fidnient ih jinr<'(|#-d bv a pn-arnble ol congid^Tablo Icnj^th, and is intended
ftrr th*' r*'\Ui nf th^ M^xiran Kirkjip(K> tribe of In<lianH in Oklahoma.
Uy iUi' iiffi jmrjigraph of the Dnamhh* the fa^t that the 'treaty" was concluded
wlffi th«w IwUnni^ (tu the 9th rrf Hfjitf-mber. 1891, Lh ptat'»d. The'serond paragraph
de# lar#'x tfiat th*w» hnlians ceded 183,905 a^TCB to the United States at 32i cents per
utTi*. The third paragraph declarr^H that the Government ifl disposing of the lands
not »IIoft<«d in H<'V''ralty U) thnnc, InHiariH at $1.50 an acre, while the concluding para-
graph of th'- inlrofluction deelan h that the Inflians concluded the "treaty" under a
miirtUMh'r»fftn<Iing w U) the price t/) he paid.
It t'na/'tn that thrr^^ nhall be appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not
oth'TwiM! ttppro|iriftt*'d, the diffrnrKo hctween the amount paid the Indians and the
sum that Ih** lunrlM wonhl briuK at ^IJA) p^-r a^-re, or |215,2:J9.
It \n prrividi'/l tliaf afl^r a conHU}* in mafh> hy p/>ino person nominated by the chief
and council of th** trih(i, who»e tt[)pointment Bhall be indorsed by the Secretary of the
AFVJJIS 09 IBM MlX£f:AS UCKAfCO ISIiiASJu IJE^t^l
pur *rira x a»*x:: ix kia aor^-iinr r.h«*^ '-jbr«i aoii ••.nifluvti.y -.t sE** aLm«c»- Aaii "i^ r»<!«3^ ^
icv.acii'.a "-.; -Ji** xjswHry ;c -.A**«i pftf:pii^ Jttui "ii *3JuiiiiLir "Xj* 'is:!**: "Ui»*7 iufcd bo 5iit»r ■jnotii
3rii-. amt jr.oi* "Uit^r* jr.au^ 7>*xn hi*o;r**^. Tj*»aft r:;it;a;:rt '.•*iikai** ^ «.iir^-e: ic Aaai/y*a«»
27 -Jif* JUT '>f J-iIj LS L*rO H TTjfcS. L.- :13> . tiS .])«•/ ir»u ipptncnafiinf sg ^j:C««t
lani'tH ic iJLj>k2ipr>» mii ;r.hi7 CniintiiH- P".arr^iTig .a riii»^ V.ri»^s :f T^Tati and X>^xk»
loii .iu!afi»^ AJii -Ku'-iHHr 'itniL ia che fruJian T'icrrswrpr. Ej rJi,* aftit .;c ULitrrh, V liTI M
31 I.**!^ la lir-i ^*7 ir»r»r rT^;r;»^i jk x:imb«a".aig IIJ. tfxIi* -jl L*i*il dbsy niioit'
'iu*m- Tliti "aai^T. .a -viij'rL nil***/ l^-x-**: t? w '-^.laci:; -7- 7^ I7iii3«»d :*rftt."*»a faroi tac;
E**3f*:. ii»*ii, is ->Sj*ir 'iiift^ v^ ti* laa*^ 5-^ ^iii'L i » 21..V prr.^M^ a'i pay tib»i2i. as
tttiLni-.nal «iiii ;n^r tail iii#'^'?^* t^** prj'j* juzr^^t ^0. Tb^-ir 'at* iaii '"s.nSp-l mtt a
'a»»nim*£-^*»« '.r -.: ■^ikr^ uij fC^ns TF2..i*ii "V'-Jilil >iut '-. "ii** :r*a,ir:T:<|' Tp .if isLyr iruarf
7»umi.a» nut 'iii^ir ^styjt^ ntjUt x -J»*.
?'jiiilly ja. icrwni*!!' ▼!» ^xnr-iuit^ti ▼isS. ^♦^xxl :a 5i^r>rmi:.^ > Ii?>T, i^hitiL warn
lay .•«ARr^GUUi;a vnAn*»'i»r. ^ ;h<»r ^:iM-m "uLri.-r A^i zisx^r^sn ic ▼tiik;:r^';'*r i^nii f*-
uhl -".i»»7 -¥^»i^ p&ai tH4 r^riO
Tn "h.:i» •r.rmiH'rii-n. inn-^atii-a s 'm:7':z^i v. "i.** jr-.-^-iHi-.rjf -.f irii'i^ 1 :f *iL»* jugrrirgit*Tit,
• '3. i»:it:nr.a Vi *Ji»* ilii:ni2i»*ii!l* Uii-.-j* perr'-iir^i 3:r mil ■Ui»* .r^i^r htsoi^&l-* v^ b«;
v> ia7 "^i* «tui Surfctcojf "" *i:r..
r-'^Uiirrrr -.^ tall £r f:i2rJi«»r m-r-ifffacLrj c •.»^n r-*^ hrr.-^zr..2jE ^^t* luu'r^ :f 6*f!?*pr;i-Ti,
*!r.u*r Jir«>iu:!i;iiai -dr jwiii«irai- m pCvT^t T'^'* ':r.!iLXJ4»u:!i**s ^c^.tafi***! ". rrojn.
2i**nE ▼•M »» 'jiib* TP^if '^.rh inr^m ip iziii*rr iar.»* x iizii* II. LiiVl. -iin aiu* aiiL'iHir
▼a» iriiit ip«*iL xnii 'K.VA^rj !nQipttrr>.^i :a *ui»* tnA :i: "^!»^pn**nL-:»*r l-i<->l. Ji "IAjS '.i^/ "*^
!:ttUK atf^ mii i«t£ay -•♦^uuf "oian "ik*» Ijuiitiiid ii*i OivC vjhi v> sjum Ian*i» ji i*r^-aa*r. j :oE
jxumfc ii«€paiUf* ui£y ai^ir 3i**xii '>t?* it "iij* T.r.»* v^n ui rata "Ji** v:niuaa*:r. m tcspTL. JLfstm
1892 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
their people and kerpt this up for six or seven weeks. On August 21 , 1891 , the Indians
askedTthe commissioners to meet them at Oklahoma City, which they did. The
Kickapoos were then represented by seven men, whom the commissioners say they
knew to be head or leading men of the tribe. They exhibited a power of attorney or
instrument of authority empowering three nien named therein to make an agreement
for the sale of their reservation, but stipulating that the agreement should be con-
cluded in this city. All the details of the agreement were settled at Oklahoma City
except this matter of allotment or holding the reservation in severalty.
The delegation and the commissioners came here and discussed the matter fully with
the Secretjury of the Interior, who decided on September 9, 1891, that the Indians
should take allotments in sevoraltv. The names of 51 persons were then signed to
the agreement by the three men alleged to be empowered to act for the tribe. Agent
Patrick certified that from the best of his information the male adults of the tribe
numbered about 50, and that he was certain they did not exceed 50.
On the return of the delegation of Indians to Oklahoma, Agent Patrick reported on
November 5, 1889, that a council was called, but nothing was done because of the
absence of the interpreter who accompanied the dele^tion; that afterwards another
council was held, at which the agreement was explained and a vote taken, nearly
unanimous satisfaction being expressed. Afterwards there appears to have been a
split, one faction exprefwin^ itself as dissatisfied and the other as pleased with the
agreement. These two factions were of nearly equal strength.
From the records, therefore, it appears that the Government has twice paid for the
lands, and the proposed amendment would authorize a third payment. First, it
bought the lands of the Creeks at 30 cents an acre, then purchased the possessory
right of the Kickapoos for a little more than 32 cents, which was stipulated to be the
final and only compensation they were to receive, and the proposed amendment ia
designed to give them something more than $1.17 per acre additional. The commit-
tee may form its own conclusions as to how much of a title the Kickapoos had to the
land. All that they received was obviously a mere gratuity given them in the hope
of inducing them to settle down in one place and become citizens.
Now, as to the means proposed for making this payment. The provision that a
census shall be made by some person nominated by the chief ana council of the
tribe, who shall be indorsed by the Secretary of the Treasury, is open to objection.
First, the Treawury Department having nothing to do with Indian affairs, any legis-
lation which seeks to transfer to it administrative duties for which the Interior Depart-
ment is maintained introduces a foreign element to no advantageous purpose, as far
as I can see; second, there is no recognized chief of the Kickapoos, wno are divided
into two bands of about equal number, each headed by a person who claims to be
chief. Practically all of one faction are in Mexico and all of the other in Oklahoma.
It seems to me that any provision of this kind should authorize an enrollment through
the usual channels, either by a person to be specially employed or an inspecting
officer regularly commissioned under the Interior Department. The provision that
the roll shall be first approved by the chief and councilmen is open to objection on
the same lines.
I am of the opinion that the amendment would be strengthened by adding the
clause —
**That any of such Indians and their descendants who shall have permanently left,
or may hereafter permanently remove from the United States, shall thenceforth be
no longer wards oi the Government and shall not be recognized by any Department
thereof as being entitled to any benefits a^ Indians."
I am not seeking to interpose any objections to this measure, but feel it my duty to
say that there is nothing in the records of my Office which I feel would warrant my
giving it an affirmative approval.
Very respectfully, F. E. Leupp, Cormnisnoner.
The representatives of the tribe submit the following statement in relation to the
Kickapoo Indians of Oklahoma for the difference between 32) cents per acre and
11.50 per acre:
Under the stipulations of an alleged treaty, concluded with the Mexican Kickapoo
Indians in the Office of the Secretary of the Interior, in the city of Washington, dated
September 9, 1891, the Kickapoo Indians ceded to the United States 183,965 acres, at
32* cents per acre.
I'hese ceded lands were, under the act of March 3, 1893, open to homestead entry at
11.50 per acre; and it is the contention of the Kickapoo Indians, first, that they never
made any treaty, that the alleged treaty was never in any sense understood by them,
and, second, it is contended for them t^at had the treaty been made understandingly
AFFAOB or THS X^^CAS dCKAPOO TimASB. 189S
^hfv ipvnxld IxBKY ^ifiBi} -QiiuirJHid !:• i^ ^FfeFBUoe l^jumem SB§ ?f!ir4« p«r acne aad fi^SP
}«» UPBR 2i3i ctf a fi^KjaniLm liiK vanic *sLi-zn^ ssrx^jint *c lieiiirni? litfr -ipoiiid exaar-
lazL A pn>i*'.isiiaxi "K.* xn^ci- liiesu Ikzic zl i^tT-echiiiy t»r^ r*!5*r»!it"*- » i»erf ms^ i^' liie
C^ lilt TiiifckTT^^ QC lilt ^l]wc\p»«fl "aseitlT . <,*ii pa£«t IK** U* "ultf * r-rmtTrwffnfffifff-'f A-rrtnu*.! lit^^trt
iar lift- TifiHEr i*$Fi iriB iit icaiiid 'M i'.ilji'viur pBraEn-;«L. "ii » €X«»eidiu§:}T dj&roit
3ni*-Hi'.ai mpi li-if Tsiiic jl r.-.nDjrz^ li 1?5H(' kuc ^mr* dxi!iur la* pref^im ineEr.. jr aH of
"iriii'i tsmntiif lilt r-rm tTTirtri j^SLil ""TM I^ift'-lljftd- lilt iTir'^TiCTtf h,li»jinD^tiiT JCEufiinEr 4&
isisic j'.r 'Ousr SkJM: uf lilt T^effldi^ ht mirpiiit thiid.
* Ai lilt laa! nitiBuTTig vr*i ii*«iL liit icrinitein -^nif j!pf9iBKi«fC lixKi tiieT wfsm fficati^id
iHi lii^ur jD««B«in lc»tatiactL iii*"^~r tTr EiAKnrcrpt ur6sr, h tieiiifiiirx lioa «t «iit nme
na^n t»t 5»pt^t;?*d jHid lilt fa»jii*- i^^nFtr iH»d !«:• ivmsyv^ liien. "u iJiiier ^szid liisa xij^y
^inmci itofc* ^dviffiiaBt ai ii»t zsr&nsm '.i^r^Kninnrr Vi> abcurt: h jiermiBnem iiazu^ sbd m
mtitc f'imqtirt^oti'T grwmp mnL liit ayit c ijjt siir:ci&- T: lit-tf ii»tx 3«p5frd litsi ii«
jR5»er^ aiattti "wnt nc ]iiex»r liusx Hiifb'"-ieiLi i.ir u^eir i»*»ea*: lint-i v ti€»"(»iiit d€ifiiii5*ih'
^iKno^G vurQd i* \C' 6^93% nr lii*^ -^Tisiiimr 5*aiHif- xsLx^i "^tsttrj^:: liiw r li^nr <2iQ ikh xw»
lilt JBserrifciacai ii -winiid ncn tit rirtn ii' d2^^:i»«t cc iiis3 iriii'-ii oc nn: i»fei'.»nr v,* liieaiL,
jin€ if 31 wMi liffiBS liipT dsd iica wA K- atuj n. Ti* <C^smnnsBi;m c:cTLad H£> ncnimi^
iuniier looii liieiL mid ii«!^ liit ii«c'»i]i£.id:ii* ivc litt jrestcLi v«rt ^aded_"^
•i^uifcxur iunAier incL 'uiit *fl»ji»t j^>h4?t xl i^"j.i»i*ccT. ii»t ia»*n ytne. I'vxuc v. liit lidlixK
CD lilt fTi^iF imzL df.iiiiir:.- liitj V'Wt iki2u.>*ri xu h <• jiidzui'»i» cc iitmiiit,. iipT>ecii2 riS liieift
ji'.Tr.iiitlij flumoiir i^ a^KTuL **i. 7Pi»T«e»teL^is.ia:ii: :c liit iw/'jt, I f.«t»ii£Liiftd isinii'dij le
jiuriutft itir liitsiL «n««L nicoiiitF nkiaaii jui .c liit iuiio ii5'}»r.»j!rii».i*d tx liit su^ijt'.iit
tc £at^^i:KiL Ar*er liit jm^Tisicm* "«pept- i>iir'l;i4**e:L. liitj iiciiiiiJiT jBiiwea v. -mm^
iw lilt 5»iir;#y«r tc ormnur li^t «iir:i*t ii.tr^rniifrufcjii^^ir lii^nr suinour c-viiidra'.iL. sud
lilt iMTa'ajf laid v. t»t i#c»iCL 7^i»t '.:i>.u*»t '.C '.i if viit i."!*ffiT ib^ uiifci ii»t ■eiirt»Ijt2i*ei2i T!n|^a
2ij mmtt way «an* i: i;r?t iix isnCunirT tuu cjittJin ii;*:^ liitcu-
* Tilt ite'it ji?t Uibi ix{ u'/'.-ui-. tJiir •-ii>e: : lOii t»*^x nibot id iirtj*«t Inoiiiiijti- Inr liitar
tnai»«ir. jKiJG liusi i*: liit unut iii Li*t ^i.*^ -^iii c •: :jjr tZ-teistc iz»a».Tj liit a^mn m tJhss^
fC liien: '-tiiuid unhr p-it ULttiii xiiil:**^ h.ypT izLiiUi;*i:x
* ¥!!«• «irTwy» "U' lirt- iiJjtsred j»i*v*r :c h.v^jni'ry t-kToiiLinTinir ii*t €i*cinaat ci h Tetany
ail "R a«ii3ucMiiL. vept utit lUkiirf* :e Iiiditiit vii. iii.i't iH^v-^ir t»?*Pl: id^iinzirtid itf tiwrug
£3<!:k^{*ut fiu^ lilt lufzii^ ld liiiJHt "Viii inikfl t»*»riL dfia»d j.ajir jciar i* liit TrtitirTT^ .gf
Lfmit V' 'S^itiSoiisiLiii » priitiiiuhiT irofc. ''ui liitj d^d «: imii liit iLii0«EBUaifa^ i^oC
liitT^ wvEFt «mAQhs£ liiit Q*u*Eb.i«f« ii' jir:r.!^*fr. itrtziisi liit Tiifc."niifr' rj* ^ ireiiij'. Ii ii
imijier 3it "^nt* trunfikdeciiuicjZi ui liiif ush^tjor i.: uait 2221.I' j*i:c::niin ii*t^ ifed liiLi t»in aa»
JEjria^iiit' ic liif- uin*? in litt Trtfc.r-:Ttp ai liit Lu_t*ir-t<d ir+afrTy f5.»:»ct iiiT IinirHw. njuQ hit
-i^srv ingisEfe'.'Llx liiiTi n-.ait cc lii^^il {::iruad reuc jt vmit.. iuiid liiiti liit fftdcgnied ^ri^JEie
una; 3ii iii«r iri»»t Juw^spi: "R'iujjji'jt irii: dad litt HiuerpreLmii. "dif liirimEii & «iii fir
'.runrniHftiiuii ' .oiHUiT.irwtfd ^iiii«ii. aajin^d iiiv:- liit Lakb^nM izi:»e v;. £ad ±l af*'.«rrii3ig
UieiL nil'.' di*§#uaiup ui liisir rwwnk-Hi.tL J^^najiitid i^^r-w,: i;2id TTiKrk&d Eiiabri A«
aud nuft&t £ jiun u: liof w^'uimi^ii' 2* Uit i/e?uxLi:a.v .c 1**^;^^:: tij F iipi-anOFf "iri®
«tyf * AtKim lijtt itnii ui i»«jri,*iiL'»^ir LLJt luui •^ij.j'^'jt* i**^-:x.1jj^ i*sj iii-U'-i d5ffiai.iasfiei.
St taad liuii Sill vat v. t»t jjiac $: aK^j 5x ry.f.iir Uir Ijiidiiuiii- ir'^: t ir*ifcij.. i^d liisi
i-IU liitd acrt^HS ^: jiirr Mil $I' .(»(♦'> kZiQ r:^ t :;i:t, l rimd liiiiit zl l^hHt.-nr^nL ix 'tt^r-jr-nr
'. : ♦ii] Uit "tiO>Ki*» laiti Lt iiiid iLis:i,i»*jr;»-*r.>td !>: "L2jr!iL. tjiC vijt Lirtad liiLi lit v:iiLffl[
'»* dli^C vii*5ii iit vtaii uuljl. v: uiit C*iLu-ii.iiLiit '•^r.TT'nrr jiir .jmr i: li^Rrr t»tt'jiLifflP
T lj»^x Old lilR Mud^ffETaaid li»t^ vart iTtkr-mf i^r ir^i-'T". liu..l Iit lAi.»Uzin Hill -^nit t*rTm^
n titt^ JKirrii V3iij inm. jKXid ii*- aiad r' H: ? dad nx ■paj 1 itti i*t vin^d r*.' tib'ji v. ii»
*^'"*»narT c liit Jin^^ra^r Eiid r^'^i "Liit "^li :i>t ij_Liir twisj
uu* imiini*jr Til*- }:Ljf.'kt^f.n Kesan^iajij vi;* :»:»u:Li6'^d ti iii*r *< luu. » j "ui>t J c: I'vt.i^*-
iiLi» ^♦•juirLrr kh^ vitf ':iiiuiii**td * t i.t**^;! it^d iii**- Mu- vii^+yt TiHi*** Iiidifcju^ tt^t* vtiS
acr^'iiii'*fd 21 >*7i-i.'iy.RTn?iT. lijid '..tiiiir^ lii^ir li^iid '.: Hi^TiL wm i»'.yLLL''*id ir.iiL i^ii* iit^i*
vqruea m wta liit iaLitj^.n I-eH*rTt.iii.!ii loid ixiii.:, liity v-HTt .niij *4'jiit-m«ri i::5»-Q. '»i«
iKud Tw?: liifn- v*rt jjiiad fliK' T»*r i»(rt 3 r lii*^ ^iir^cut Tii^sr it^Lidf vtrt 'jiitsHiiifli
«!ffriiiiO-Liia» liuiid Tin: ^^ u^ud J:il -liXu^f 1. :if^ *'uh'. v*rt *ij»'ii r:T pl l cmLTuor
•wtauE sc iioi^ inkijt ii»^ Sai^bji »:>»■ vii: '-.lu,., ij'^:;^'r r'^:i»i ii.r vrr.*: l.m viii»
i»r «ijiBt inwxii^iiicnif j»«r»- <2: Tfr- r:- '-": 'L* -: - :»^' i. •••<fr 5 c *x»--iT *^;:^' uf it..Tt4.
1894 AFFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
BKffe enlightened neiehbon received. It will be remembered that the Cherokees, idio
dlspoeed of their land at about the time of the ratification of the alleged Kickapoo
treaty, were paid for similar lands $2.50 per acre^ and it is a fact that no other tribe of
Indians in Oklahoma of the numerous tribes of fnendly Indians who were settled upon
the Creek, Seminole, Choctaw, and Chickasaw lands received less than 11.25 per acre.
It is contended for the Kickapoo Indians that by treaty stipulation thev had an
absolute title to all the land embraced within the Executive cnrder which was designatel
as the Kickapoo Reservation. Under the fourth article of the treaty of June 28, 1862,
these Indians relinquished 150,000 acres of land in what is now part of Brown County,
Kans., and without consideration, except the following proviso contained in said
section 4, which reads: "And upon such land being assigned in common, the perwms
to whom it iB assigned shall be held to have relinauished all title to lands assigned in
severalty and in the proceeds of the sales thereof wnenever made. Or, should a major-
ity of the adult males of said class decide to remove to the Indian countr>r south of
Kansas, then and in that case their new home shall be limited to the auantitv above
described, but shall be as large as can be purchased with the proceeds of the sale of the
tract to which they would have been entitled had they determined to remain upon the
present reservation, computing the same at the rate of at least $1.25 per acre.
And accordingly, dunng the year 1860, more than a thousand Kickapoos removed
to and settled in the Canadian Valley in what later became known as the Kickapoo
country. Here they opened fields, split rails, and inclosed the land, expecting to
acquire title to the land as provided by the treaty stipulation above quoted. The
acute agitation growing out of the civil war caused these Indians to temporarily
abandon their location; but it appears that when the United States a^in removed
them to the Indian Territory, it was deemed that they still were entitled to these
lands, and they were accordingly set aside for them.
That the Government of the United States owes these Indians the difference con-
tended for there can he no question in equity or otherwise.
Under date of April 24, 1906, Hon. Henry M. Teller, in speaking of this matter,
as shown by the Congressional Record of that day, page 5889, said: "The amendment
may be amenable to a point of order. The chairman of the committee seems to
think it is. The Government of the United States bought this land from these peo-
ple who had the title and sold it. The Supreme Court of the United States declared
in a similar case that the Government must respond as trustee to the Indians for the
full amount it received for the land. Ordinary rules of law would also require the
tnistee to do that.' The law does not allow the trustee to make any money out of
the ward's property, and that is all there is in this claim." .
Speaking further on the subject, Senator Clapp said: **Is not this a case where
the evidence showed that a man came up here with one Indian and negotiated a
treaty and got |5,000 for negotiating it, and the money was paid him by the Gov-
ernment?" To which Senator Teller replied: "That is exactly what did happen in
this case. It was a most scandalous affair under any phase of it." And further on
in his remarks the Senator said: "But independent of that, Mr. President, the Gov-
ernment of the Ui^ited States was dealing with its ward. It took its title from its
ward and then sold the land for a different sum from what it responded to these
Indians. The Supreme Court of the United States in a case some years ago entitled,
as I recollect, *The New York Indians' settled that question. I need not say to the
lawyers here that it is the rule that a trustee is never allowed to make any money
out of the property of his ward. He is not allowed to deal with them in that way.**
Quoting from the Commissioner's annual report for 1891, page 364, which is the
statement of the Indian asent who had charge of the Kickapoo Indians in 1891, and
is dated July 1, 1891, and in which he savs: "The Cherokee Commission met this
tril>e in council in 1890 and once durine: the present year, at all of which councils
the common result was reached — the Indians aosolutely refusing to treat for the sale
of the residue of surplus lands."
So we have the certificate of a Government official that the Indians did not make
any treaty, and the meeting referred to by him was beyond any question the last
meeting held with the Indians by said Commission, because the treaty bears date of
Septeniber 9 and the power of attornev authorizing the treaty is dated June 21 , 1891 .
Mr. W. 8. Field, of this city, but ^)rmerly of Oklahoma, was present at that last
conference, and we believe his testimony, if called before the committee, will cor-
roborate his statement.
At the last council referred to, which wa« at or near the pn*sent site of Wellston,
Okla.. a line was drawn as a means of voting as to whether the Indians would accept
allotments and sell tlu'ir surplus or not. And those who favored the pn)position were
inNHted to cross the line. Only one adult Kickapoo voted in favor of the proposition,
his minor stepson voting with nim.
AFTAsas or THX ifinnrAy mjcKAroo ixmA^s^ 1695
trr tf.. cuSuruiaatLtihr for ^tm.. fiit- srf cf Jmtt ZL IMi^ ii^ei to ffw^ ^bem. tkm
l^m » s naBLksBE. inHi^^i^nff. k&c {Rx t<»QB^ TTatff ^i IsiiBKBB. Tltrr woJl ab>cn^x all
iaKfl. "OiPT. jdi* Baz: ^Tm. * tiaad cf Tr^iw r^-wT****.. 3«ii»- -*: j&.vr.mijif' w.hzKik tar
trail diLi'.iL jc iKEuzice »^^*ciui ce "iii«iL fc^TiiLLT *r.2jrr22i^ v. 6*ai.ii. Osi j^^p»s««irLb.tii3«
3i 3f- ^^^T'mifih' dzSirnla ^^ w t&fl» %^ ^.tw^ wet aam^n'»»c« inft^ skiar caototoi
sot Tane«f OE iiriuc. fer^w-ifcZj >*»* as j««:'T»Hn a Iiw&otk firc»'.ie» ii: i^ caMC -rf aSksMr
jams&. 1%*' "Tha^'k-^ift •«. ':mirL2iamr*Si mrt iLu rnl* ix cciuiid] r^rifit m IMH^ msA ?ibc»
A": "di*- ins: 2i*t**?iiinr vn J: "iif«E lii^ iirru2i»*'!iH vitf pB»9»HEUft2 litBi liipr T^rt fikmisiad
TIL "nas: jirawm j-.t'^tjuc iijffrtirT ly Ex*t'/ir2-n€- cr6ar — ft ^shjxca't iaims. noian ja xaj
^»'.»£ fimzji^nKii?*' h.^t*r^y zr:trL li/*- *a:r»*^ .c lit*^ fr^*^*:!!* To iMf liter T¥5?«ii©d I2is2 liipy
ju?:ir-**c v:ruid i**- V. desErTT* i^btHu "»'i*EtH2if:. >^ai*?t.*. jEi»fi <iKiic»?«"- litiiii 3f liter -iaaffi aoC
'.no lilt ?»»»rTt.'niwir n v-.nJi ii:ti i>»?- npt.i !:> -Sim*:!**?- ^ tiaa wii^^ii Cid deb iiiedam:
S'^mes^ j^-l*^ -KJ* ^7" ufn^^ »v frofc*- "j -»ii* i^i iit?7' K!^ ai-.^v ^: '.rmLjir^CiSiiD -ni»ii..TTJrqg
KiiC irav^' snniKaai^ I>r; t^jk lin- jf»«i_:zi^ i: ferL>*cjeiii :^ii«?^ Xk^nmrar jqujitA-
fiiQir ^ipfsmc ipbj? kq^ £iic*v tbcBiL liisn liisir ^ui TT^t^i^ rfsi&iMatf cifid s^vapt issciaocti
2L maz 'j»T. TiiBi vc_ cr i.i#:nr. "ii>* la; c Sr^f^rc:.:*^?- IrlVl. l d^iit'i^i.Ti.Ti. kt:t^ wt
lii* t:*L.'nTmi'r» tjii 'C*Lj: iLt^iic irioL 'O^kiiuii . out T'eJTr:.:r7'- I'laisisuiir .£ rw: lLj"lcJi^iso
3 3«aiit«nit*ff' diBiaEiiniilT -^^^ k*?::-* iuu c stiid ^u-ny t»r<f-i«u**^ I sans k !!kmi*r^ i.: niCKl
MlMWC V.' --hkit EHt tfflTHr-Hl hJll.r^r^: .-^TJJiZr LZii iTirr^v^^l. liJ* phTTT £ir*<-i "..I iS*
jTifiiMT CA:*- Til* '.»u2i-ELjaEa:ii*«ar u: luiaiLL A^tjr* 2^uLLi*ii. h 2irfsH**eor^ vix: trcrarfei
jmeij.. Kiit ii«*r uiL.-; i**- iLiis HZ. i:i»i t-riucL: -li.^ Iiiiit^uf :. Wj^i: -»ri^g. i.. ttj -„: g«
AiHiis lit*- iiTiii ui' SffH^eoiirivar "Jlm hull liri_4i5.»C -^ t»tj:^fcJLfc*- x-enr n a.i. t-ii!!tt.:is5**a- He
" 1 liitt W'-in iimi, 1^ ii^ |ttid |^J(iK> icr ^idliiic iii£ l^?^««* tlTv/ u "'CT^ffCrr ^^a^^^safc.
1896 AFFAIB8 OF THB MBXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
had agreed to pay him $500 and give him a good time in Washington for helping to fool
the Indians; that he had misinterpreted to them and was afraid that he would be
killed when he went back to the Oklahoma countrv for lying to them, because they
did not understand they were makine anv treaty; that he thought Hill was acting in
bad faith with him, and he said if Hill did not pay him he would go back to the Secre-
tary of the Interior and give the whole thing away. During the winter of 1896 a
ddiegation of Kickapoo Indians also stayed at my house. They were very persistent
in declaring to me that they had not made any treaty, and said they never would
take their sJlotments.
Benjamin F. BsYBRiDoa.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 18th day of January, 1907.
[bsal.] John S. Wood, Notary PvJbUc
TREATY WITH THE KICKAPOO INDIANS, JUNE 28, 1862.
Art. 4. To those members of said tribe who desire to hold tlieir lands fai common
there shall be sot apart from the present reservation of the tribe an undivided quantity
sufficient to allow one-half soction to each chief, one-quarter section to each other head
of family, and forty acres to each other person, and said land shall be held by that por-
tion of the tribe for whom it is set apart by the same tenure as the whole reserve nas
been held by all of paid tribe under the treaty of 1854. And upon such land being
assigned in common the persons to whom it is assie:ned shall be held to have relin-
quished all title to lands assigned in severalty and in the proceeds of sales thereof
whenever made, or should a majority of the adult males of said class decide to remove
to the Indian country south of Kansas, then, and in that case, their new home shall
not be limited to the quantity above designated, but shall be as large as can be pur-
chased with the proceeds of the sale of the tract to which they would have been entitled
had they determined to remain upon the present reservation, computing the same at
the rate of at least one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre: Provided, That the pur-
chase of such new home shall be made by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, under
the direction of the Secretary of the Interior, and at such locality within said Indian
country as he may select: And provided ahOy That such new home shall be purchased
and the Indians entitled removed thereto within the period of two years after the com-
pletion of the survev herein provided for. And such Indians sliall be entitled to the
benefits of their full proDortion share of all assets belonging to said tribe in the same
manner that they would nave been entitled had such removal not been made, deduct-
ing therefrom the necessary expenses of their removal.
The Commissioner says:
My two latest predecessors, Commissioners Bn:)wning and Jones, both announced
and 1 have myself repeated, that the Indian Office will not raise any serious objection
to a provision for the payment to the Kickapoos of the sum conveyed by this paragraph.
Erovided always that Congress understands what it is doing when it votes. This will
e a free gift of $215,239, oecause the Indians liave already been paid for their land,
which, indeed, they never owned in the first place. This whole matter has been
reviewed from time to time by the Indian Office, by reference to its records, and no
fact has been more persistently set forth than the gratuitous character of the proposed
appropriation. The present panigraph, however, goes a step further and proposes that
tne money slyill be paid to Martin J. Bentleyandan Indian unknown to tnis Office
named Pah-ke-tah. It remains with Congress to say, after it shall have looked thor-
oughly into the character of these trustees, whether it wishes to place such a sum of
money in their hands for payment in turn to the Indians.
There is just one feature of the paragraph which would, under some conditions, make
me feel disix)se(i to approve it. That is, that ''said payments shall be considered and
deemed a final settlement of all claims oj every kind whatsoever of said Indians against
the United States." As these Indians are now in Mexico, or are under influences
designed to take them there, I feel that it is most important, in case of the payment of
any large sum to them, that their account with the Goveniment be closed* forever.
From their mode of life and the auspices under which they conducted their exodus, I
feel verv' certain that the time is not far distant when they will be returning to the
United &tatc»s in a condition of pauperism, and I should prefer to see the Government
protect itself against any possible claim from these people as its wards. They have
been duly warned of what to expect if they persist in their present course. Their civil
status puts it out of the question for the Indian Office to do anything more with them
than warn them; and if they persist in what we regard as their waywardness, I think
A7FAIB8 OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1897
the leesoDs of experience for them, which will be also lessons of observation for other
Indians similarly situated, may prove very wholesome in the end.
Referring to the provision for bringing suit, the Commissioner says:
I consider this legislation highly desirable because it may result in the final settle-
ment of the question whether Martin J. Bentley, who has had charge of the Kickapoo
Indians who migrated to Mexico, or the Department of the Interior, which, from con-
scientious motives, has done its best to defeat his plan, has presented the situation
the more honestly to the public. If the charges which the Department has brought
against Mr. Bentley are true, he ought to be severely punished. If the coimter charges
he brings against representatives of the Govermnent are true, they ought to be severely
punished. It is impossible that both sides should be right. If both are wrong, tiien
by all means, in justice to everybody, let us find it out.
27813— S. Doc 216, 60-1— vol 8 2
Territory op Arizona, County of , ss:
The undersigned, Mexican' Eickapoos, being duly sworn, depose and say that they
are each and every one over the age of 40 years, and were in the year 1891 and for
many years prior thereto residents of the Kickapoo Reservation in Oklahoma; that
they were present at a council of said Kickapoo tribe called by the Commission Imown
as the Gerome Commission, held near the village of Wellston, in the month of June,
1891. That at the. said council speeches were made both by the members of the
Commission and by the head men of the Kickapoo tribe; that finally a vote was
taken as to whether or not the said Kickapoo tribe should consent to the allotment
of their lands and the making of the treatv there presented by the said Gerome Com-
mission; that upon said vote one adult Indian and his two minor sons only voted
for the acceptance of said treaty and that all of the remainder of the said Kickapoo
tribe then present voted against the making of said treat]^; that no paper was at tnat
time presented for the signature of the members of the said tribe, and that no person
signed any treaty or agreement of any kind; that some time during the month of
August thereafter, one John T. Hill came to said reservation and took with him to
the city of Washington two members of the said Kickapoo tribe, namely, Ocquano-
casey, Kishocamme, and one Joseph Whipple, a white man in no manner connected
with the said tribe; that the saia two Kickapoo Indians so taken to Washington,
D. C, were instructed bv the Kickapoo tribe at a council of said tribe to protest
a^^ainst any attempt to allot their said lands or to in any manner interfere with the
title thereof as then held by them; that upon the return of the said two Indians
from the city of Washington the said Kickapoo tribe was informed by them that
they had so protested and that no treaty whatever had been made or accepted by
them. Notwithstanding said statement, shortly thereafter came Government sur-
veyors and the United States Indian agent saying that they were authorized to sur-
vey and allot said reservation under a treaty made by said John T. Hill, Ocquan-
ocasey, and Kishocamme; that thereupon all of said kickapoo tribe, with the ex-
ception of ten heads of families, left the better part of said reservation and re-
moved thoDselves to the most inaccessible part thereof, and that they in no man-
ner participated in the said allotment, but protested constantly against the same,
and refused to accept the payment of money provided by the terms of said treaty
to be paid to each member of the Kickapoo tribe; that to-day, for the first time,
there is now shown to them a copy of the said treaty so alleged to have been made,
the said copy being found on pages 557-58-59-60-61-62 of vol. 27, U. S. Statutes at
Large^ that they have had read to them the signatures attached thereto; that they
find signed thereto the name Pameethout; that they are of the opinion that the said
Pameethout refers to the only Painethot who has ever been in Oklahoma Territory
upon their reservation; that there has never been but one Pamethot on said reservation
and that he is a Kansas Kickapoo enrolled in Kansas prior to said treaty and allotted
there subsequ^it to the date of said treatv and is not a member of the Mexican band
of Kickapoos in Oklahoma; that the said name of Pameethout appears twice in the
signatures and attached to said treaty; that the name N-kee-thow, attached to said
treaty, is not a Kickapoo name and no such person was ever connected with said tribe;
that the name Takexakliioe, thereto attached, is not a Kickapoo name, and that no
such person was ever connected with said tribe or Rved upon said reservation; that
the name Meeteajquaw, attached to said treaty, is not a Kickapoo name nor did any
such person ever reside upon said reservation, nor was he a member of said tribe; that
the name Tteoroughnauyh is not a Kickapoo name nor did any such person ever
reside upon said reservation, nor was he a member of said tribe; that the name Theo-
cann is not a Kickapoo name and no such person ever resided upon said reservation,
nor was he a member of said tribe; that the name Payahnough is not a Kickapoo name
and that no such person ever resided upon said reservation, nor was he a member of
said tribe; that me name Chaughcotow is not a Kickapoo name and that no such
person ever resided npcm said reservation, nor was he a member of said tribe ; that tbA
1900 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
name Mavsooppatteesaut is not a Kickapoo name and that no such person ever resided
upon said reservation, nor was he a member of said tribe; that the name Weetsactto-
sauth is not a Kickapoo name and that no such person ever resided upon said reserva-
tion, nor was he a member of said tribe; that the name Chestkeeaugh is not a Kickapoo
name and that no such person ever resided upon said reservation, nor was he a memoer
of the tribe; that the name Kamkeneynay, subscribed to said treaty, is not a Kickapoo
name, and no such person ever resided upon said reservation, nor was he a member of
said tribe; that the name Mass-Mc-carmic is the name of a Pawnee Indian married to a
Kickapoo woman who was at that time resident upon said reservation, but was not a
member of said tribe, nor had he ever been recognized by said tribe as such; that the
name Sopuckawaw is undoubtedly intended for the Kickapoo Indian named Sopucke-
mali, who died more than five yes^n prior to the date of the attempted making of said
treaty by said Gerome Commission; that the name Paughthesistlugt is not a Kickapoo
name and that no such person ever lived upon said reservation, nor was he ever a
member of said tribe; that the name Mackaureyer is not a Kickapoo name and that no
such nerson ever resided upon said reservation, nor was he ever a member of said tribe;
that tne name Aughpautthousepyearo is not a Kickapoo name and that no such person
ever resided upon said reservation, nor was he ever a member of said tribe; that the
name Patthesathe is not a Kickapoo name and that no such i)er8on ever resided upon
said reservation, nor was ho at any time a member of said tribe; that the name
Emnestatte is not a Kickapoo name and that no such person ever resided upon said
reservation, nor was he ever a member of said tribe: that the name Nectootauquawpaw
is supposed to be the name of the Kickapoo named Nickotocapee, who was a Kickapoo
Indian, said reservation, and member of said tribe, but who died some six years prior
to the date of the attempted making of the said agreement by the said Grerome Com-
mission; that they and none of their people ever authorized the said Ocquanocasey,
Keeeoconjme, ana John T. Hill, or either of them, to represent the said tribe or any
of itfl members or to attach the sicpiature of the said tribe, or any of its members, to any
treaty or agreement whatsoever, out that, on the contrary, they protested at all times
against the making of said aweement and the execution thereof.
Subscribed and sworn to before mo this 11th day of November, 1907, by nineteen
Kickapoo Indians hereto numbering from 1 to 19, inclusive.
J. B. Speld,
My corainission expires July 28, 1908.
Notary Public.
1. 0-KEMAH (his X mark).
2. Jim Deer.
3. KisH-KiN-Ni-QUOTE (his X mark).
4. Wah-nah-kethe (his x mark).
6. Pa-ko-tah (his x mark).
6. Ah-kes-kuck (his x mark).
7. Wa-pe-sose (his x mark).
8. Ah-na-sha wato (his x mark).
9. Ne conopit (his x mark).
10. Ah CHE CHE (his x mark).
11. Oquemahahthem (his x mark).
12. Weamot (his x mark).
13. Wahpahoko (her x mark).
14. Ahnathiha qi:a (her x mark).
15. Pamethot (his x mark).
16. Chahkeshk (hor x mark).
17. Penetumwa (his x mark).
18. Ke ah ka qua (her x mark).
19. John Mine (his x mark).
The si^aturo of Indians numbered one to nineteen were made in my presence,
the said Bign(»rs being personally known to me, and the said document was thoroughly
explained to said signers, and that the leaders dictated the (avis therein containea.
W. S. Field.
The signatures of Indians numbered one to nineteen, inclusive, were made in my
presence, being identified by Jim Deer, and the said signers stated they understood
the statements therein contained.
John J. Hannan.
h Qi>«L «d!&(?iQ«4 WfOBdry tEilHsaad p«rt;sQ# tri^^
po- HJawB^ppL nt^ wit. tW SIibvim^s. I>tla(vsi«. Kkk^i'^w. F?t:>rib». f'^suiki?-
AFTAISS or THE MEXMCJlS KHTKaPOO m>UkS& 1901
«». £ta»e
'?&k^ jewtmx-feft El fmnarjiL i:r sod m !»^&ilf -of di«ir aoESbai. 4o tenr<& j ruiminac**. ^:ott-
sccnni^. jjoii Jip^^Gii: riS«*cr«i«i bi^yv^ nsa. T*»i3eiDS:«-. le dusir ii<»p<!rrTt .vr uprtis. ft:r sle
Pb*9bi«*iic •?>£ r,&i»- Fiifui^ii SG9fi«9. sad jJ£ «oc2ua9 is ^ios^xzvt ixE«i«»r Lgh, to r»rT^rT>»' ;i2id
«(kTt>a iiodi^ c&MT iflH&di» jomI c&c- fcal of ttl^
!3IUIH«£.
JL:; lOK i:m]» sLeaR- ]jh£bs2Is w««- EiL fbct Wat
SiAiai*- Rr«W. w&t»v»- ti&Ky &Mi ^seaMigMd ti«si»«lT<5 ji$ frrHiastar pssri* b«HMr«;i^a n&e
iKCZ^^i- of T<^xai» Jind iL^t*- villi iTuJiaiBf <i:tf dke- dIobbb. w%i> w^izM $wi^'p> •^o'v^ cr. ci dbe-
i»r±iir7- -ii !At»- Fiiici»«i 5cji£*r ntae n&oc post o£ jIexkQ<. aam£ !&w£ biw^onw- Jk ^x-CiSLwii: cuai»-
j»'* V. i^ mby:r& CL t:&a£ port oc ihtt B«»|hi&£^ arTw kBi^'WTi ;» T?xitf> "HLfesfr <b^r:ki«»
^a 'ic siie nMwncr iA wibck dber hm that kotfiiL wkkk vcr«' wiisMii c&e- ksuxs •oc tie
4G(i«9»aa2XLeifi. sSkj mmkt ^ feftyvrmi^ puitem tio- l» famufciftii wisk &ui«^ 'OC audi
Il^sj pcxj t&uc tie OiinTBiMam Ajt tksBL buj be <Qtt t&c- v«aB bsik ''d zhA or<i}fcjcu&>
BL-?«ar Dma lAe oedennlnf fWMitd (sai ikos irner vitk a* wvacccs. brMifflagff wmijitk w^
'!axL nrnTTiMimrfT caiK p !■■ miirja. T^er JPCh^ tW «>^T«m2S3jCB2 nkhC nW cf^oiiixic-ntf
•:hi»m zsr^rme t^bexL <aue Fngfoffe. miie «pi:tf«- 5jr caidi dinLLhr. tja tihi»se- 'tt-^ciimii^fM
rsiiPT ifik'T^ ti^ ^tipe ttiuK — afl<y c&oQHaaiB wiD ississe wii&l c&jezL in gAk-n^g chjif -itfjini^zi
TxiAeT^Sut McDGaft ^mni iiiiiin
- 1m tic* aaiDfr ^if ckc- abo^^nsHSiOEfiiC'Gi^i <-fii^
S«s3r. ^jn^ibiee ^3f^ 1US4, Bcdenei &i' due OlaKnoiiaf AynfAm ifriT;.: xjzunripul
£i Tatar .rf ^ut vx9stni3sg decree, ifeis ^jpcnfinsai !bii$ htsesL ■iecam««i in a rr:€:iiz*i
%i- ia«f adiiipaed: amiliidKr tk«> sxltject hm been ansH (^HrrsaRd icii t&ito^ ni&: t-.^s-v- is»
1902 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIAKS.
with unanimity of votes to manifest to yonr house that the establishment of this nation
in the locality which it solicits is not only useful but very advantageous to this prov-
ince, because in addition to being laborious and entertaining, they are warriors, and
the point where they are to be established is one of the first importance for the protec-
tion of this capital and the rest of the settled points of the province from the hostilities
of various barbarous nations, especially the Tahuayases, and the Tahuacanos and
Wacos, which, although at peace, do not cease to be robbers, for all of which this
ayuntamiento (council) believes that it would be most appropriate that your honor
should be pleased to send up this petition to the honorable Congress of this State with
the best recommendation to obtam that which the interested parties solicit.
Bexar, October 29, 1824. Jose Antonio de la Garza, Jose Maria Cardenas, Francisco
Xavier Bustillo, Jose Manuel de la Garza, Jose Maria Escalero, Vicente Michili, Jose
de Sandoval, Alderman Secretary.
Most Excellent Sir: Mr. John Norton, English by nation and a native of Canada,
presented himself in this place on the 23d of the current month, accompanied by a
son of his and Antonio Quin, of the same nation, conducting eleven Shawnee Indians
who formerly inhabited Canada protected by the Britannic English, and that, persi*-
cuted by the Anglo-Americans, are settled on White River on this side of the Mississippi,
disgusted in that country, for which they come soliciting that a tract be given them to
settle all of their nation, composed of two hundred and seventy families and some more
of others, which are more than a hundred, though they can not give assurance of the
number. And that for this purpose they wish to pass to the State capital or to M(»xico.
They were answered that there was no objection to their going at tneir own expense,
because there were no funds to pay their expenses in transit, explaining to them at the
same time the aridity of the country and scarcitv of game on tne road.
In virtue of this I make known to your excellency, manifesting that this class of
Indians give promise of being industrious, pacific, ana in another state of culture than
those that liave hostilized us. They are warriors and will serve as a check to the bar-
barous nations. All this is known by reports asked from those who know them,
especially of Lieutenant-Colonel Don Francisco Ruiz, who has been in their own vil-
lages, in addition to their manifest good sentiments and conduct. In the petition in
, writing which they make for the purpose indicated, addressed through me, and which
I enclope to your excellency, the illustrious ayuntamiento of this city reports the tract
which it suits to designate to them in which situation and other circumstances they
believe to be opportune according to the information and data which they have and
their own knowledge. In receivmg of them to hear their petition and operate with
more certainty I commanded the assembling of his corporation who assisted me with
their advice to decide upon this matter.
In conclusion, most excellent sir, this province needs this kind of settlers for its
advancement, and I manifest it to your excellency, reauesting you to place it in the
soverei^ consideration of the honorable Congress, witn the good repK)rt and recom-
mendation which is to be expected of the sentiments of your excellency. And in view
of all this your excellency will please decide what is appropriate.
God and Liberty. San Fernando de Bexar, 30th of October, 1824. Most excellent
sir, Caspar Flores. Most excellent sir, governor of the State of Coahuia and Texas,
Don Rafael Gonzales.
The first ccmstitutional alcalde of the city of Bexar, on the date of 30th of October
last, tells me the following:
Most Excellent Sir: Mr. John Norton, by nation English, a native of Canada,
presente<l himself in this place on the 23rd of the current month, accompanied by a
son of his and Anthony Quin, of the same nation, conducting eleven Shawnee Indians,
etc. And I transcribed it to your honors, enclosing the original memorial which
indicated in which appears the report whicn is given by the ayuntamiento of Bexar,
upon the petition of said Indians, who, with the object of advancing their interest,
have arriveii yesterday in this capital. Hoping tliat it would please your honors to
bring it to the knowledge of the august Congress for the solution that may be of their
pleasunv
God and Liberty. Saltillo, November 26th, 1825. Rafael Gonzales, Juan Antonio
Padilla, secretary.
To the Uon. Deputy Secretary of the Hon. Congress of the State:
Most Excellent Sir: The Shawnee Indians who are appearing before your excel-
lency, petitioning for an allotment of lands in the territory of this State for ihemeelTes
and their families, have ascertained that the memorial which they wrote in San Anto-
nio de Bexar and which they put into the hands of the authorities of that place, is con-
ceJved in terms which they did not comprehend, nor was it made known to them what
JkMrAUB or THE MFYiCAY K1CKAF»D ISlAASi^ IdOS
2iidm «ai£ iKSii «■ 1^ fBFi ^ tkmfr irbr pHtatra. sad a -cviiae ^ <^ft«t livr aaftior
F j« <^«r3fa» IF (itt like ii«&n inargT. cfi i^ B«^ .^'.tkcffftdt' Hir^er fd ytBy^^s^n^^hat
Tiii- 3-«»«^^«»« cB 1^ i!^irii€« XKUkcib iir^« sre 311 liof visits iriifti lite t'«^.^«n ttf fm*-
juitaa^ ihar jii^mcw i<:r iiuEidf upca: vio^ii i: KerrJr ^^iteimiii^T^ ^ty CT^iii^^CiCid sof
-Off- m HdiyiiM ii[ a^^itiiafS.taciL. 1)7 'vin^fi^. TBaari'^tr kz^.'^voi ii«e znaflnJoe irici'^ i^ifn: jma-
iORfd 3B ioEDg 1^ p^SST jrkkf ^ l^f^ f*ht23SL. ',±»frr K.^ir d«g|EmEU- like liobS t«&jk "Ctf liM*
£itfd Msv9 ctf 3^aftrJmB*c«t^fe^ moiifid^&i'C v. PfK3ii& F .£1.1 ui iii(Er TcBSb^.-rr 'id T<nc&£ ITiQ
BTTTri^rrj in cviier liua litenr zaj kn-nt- r is 2£isid jr. lite i.mtf -d 4^if3issmig vprn h -mhaii
3IBT \tt i^feeor |iA«WiiVf--
liiit- ^iik ifl ytin-vaih^ir Imai ^affi joi^ 1^ IBiL c€ iBn^- t^MTn^mi nicofem. itc-ILksiszi^ iltas lutdf
i»?r iS3CJ(!^^ 14 t2i»sL ix prrfri*fl.'B:^^» f-.e il**iij ijcuili** iLijd ^ we t€ i2i*iir i?S«adf loid
Btuufiu lint 'd mit fiaiSie Txi ilr.m»: d zht Jsir,trJL AimtrK-i.. MZtd Tiii rafesat* Jiisi' vi' liaa
nr5ii?ii 2L i^u^ juBlMTiiljB" » pT.n-jdf^ I'T jiTiiiiLi*' 4li <:€ lih-r tr'.U'iiiiiiaiiii^iii ln^ir :f libe Ifei
tf AuriHfl joi^ lite 5tiQ^*ir2n^ f.rd^- vi ii»t wj^mt^ tx^-ui-'T* p.ir+r ctl il**^ ^ti^ <t ii*e
fiKZue sitiuiiL 1:1 la^^ ttM«L j&*aiH^d '*.: 3»«f«';*fT^ liis,! cm i»',":-cTrx-» cc ili^iiT l»*u2;r f^risfM
jTi iir^RWBl It' T^ Sirwi^ie indiaaiif iLe ifa*rif c liizj-f "«rk«dL lii-e?- f*.iu^.'Ji 22. i5«r giiKiffrnr
ic LIU*- ¥KfoaB^ Efngltffti TTirik 5:r -ewi ifcr/^j li^ 5 fr»Z!! }r«* ra^i i^r*- W ^rr*iL 'uhsl iar
-Lit'.jm- -ri*. -v!^ i?> icB':'*- lii€izL.. li tac ioc t&-ii:ju \^. liiu* p^niLini*^ !;■ ii«iL. at w^M
»f\\ iii«jr incskd^ jteaidj f««niiktd. liis.: "JbrT- mfij »!•■'. crLm-.^ iiL*-'ir ri^TKzsjj: jubd vcci-
idirdni^ "te' ywm •eKiul^iXiErj wad ^»tiiititiift iii liiie agme fCiC^e litsi lilkejcaKke iatk' llb»
«»*CT«airr'* ^ffiitit. £& -^rdttr iltK; t^jii 2iifi-r dirH?i icid d:' Iz. iJ- il*^ r*«n ■wt3l -Qirtarw- <sid-
iucniinr i«» 1^ al««nie -crii^id '.ri«r vi lit*- Ftpr^si*e <jr:T'*:i!!Lii*«i;s ctf liie Unkxi; "iriiitii
IB*' !fiinixinmicKM- 1^' TT^nir «ki*IS«iict i)j db^<:rui:iL :d il*e Iksl. Ch:ii^?'«» iaifim -^iK^riKii^
••^#d Bud Ubjarrj- .ftfciUiJl-.- .2Srd cc I*rtc?«iiii»«r.. ]i2^'. I*i-.tLjrJv EHis-iiii^Ss^ deytrnr
«w3««Sict; MmqbeiC' Tjir»-iI*L 'd*^iJ3ir -Hfics^iLBrr ^ Tv liiT- 2ii:i«i ♦'i/^i^jlLkjEl kt.. lite ^.t^
"«!3iiir i/^iiie Bafte-
if liiitf ^fyi«e 5i>r iic«ir tkhi ">e^ ia*d iii'.»»e :c lii^'ir i^H^d* lziO fcr:>*!f„ T5i«*D:c^ £jid
jx TTTCiie if "flie -traer i»ra»td -vriL ilie dti^ (C 7 **»?:.^r-ai.7 1 7 ii**' aane ii.iL < :mrr«aF-
J iuiiie tnntdnoed 'H' Ofwade mo-i :tl HK'.rrr.rji^'i .c ijii*u: t*e,inr ***rufcrt.liiij*id :tL liie n^ui
tasL^ rf "S* E«id Erner c€ X^i.'i-rL'.Kii*;*-.. tbtziIJ:! liie r«r**nr7 V.r6*r j»airi»w -f^i-'.if^rutid
i'l -j^ ;i£ipr tf f^rcaoiiaafciiciL ce liie i*ni li Aurusi fcii- «i."t»!«egi>«iii -.rder .c liie sEjireane
•eaiWTUtrw jk'«»«bb' ti ^i^ :^»li d ilie «su? mctifiiL t3lii'.*u£ls ii>«^ tam ir:H i*e ^ranrit»dKfd
jc lU'OBgiiil 1?^ 1^ iiJterfsrfwd j«r&« liie lESrdf via'i liipr w.h-'-n in iS* c nt.TrtzSy ^d cnie
truunTf' T/iyTuiti iLik" iff *»ti iiL-n . r'7 hZsC i*** cix tz.7 !»*- rr^'v^rn. liiesL i'.r l5r:i!*P virt
iuy»a»cj iame (^veoKtCL or nikx Lt-ne ':'.tLL2i**!ii *id v. njmvt^-e rewn'mc m 1.: zltisz
11 j*iiitO i»g jv ;> ^CBOS ffteoiSj af i» karnriwaf* End si^frAoi^'ML.
IE one 'fliiiu— iij fli&B liLLiyfljwi said l i»»gfl v-jcnrr f^JSv&l GTsaaSef- Jroai Ai^Ik«m»
1904 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
compliance with Article 4th of the Colonization law of the 18th of August, and the
order in pursuance thereof, of the 25th of the same month of the year last past, to the
end that his excellency, the President of the Republic, may please to resolve, in
view of it, that which may be of his superior pleasure.
God and Liberty. Saltillo, 29th of March, 1825. Rafael Gonzales, Juan Antonio
Padilla, secretary to his excellency, the minister of state relations.
Most Excellent Sir: I have given account to his excellency the President with
your official note of the 29th of last month and the copy which came enclosed of the
file of documents found in your Government upon the grantint? of lands to the Shawnee
Indians on the right bank of the Red (Colorado) River of Natchitoches. His excel-
lency in answer ordered me to say to your excellency that according to article 4 of
the law of the 18th of August, 1824, he approves the establishment of the Shawnee
Indians at the points indicated by your excellency, provided that they observe the
constitution ana laws of the nation, and that they may not themselves iorm the body
of a nation, with their own authorities, but must obey tjiose of the State. For this
effect he judges that it would be better that they should not remain all together,
but that they establish themselves in towns or ranches, separated one from another,
and that prudent measures may be taken by your excellency in order that they may
embrace the religion of the nation, if they ao not profess it already, and in order that
they may become tranquil neighbors, industrious, and useful to the State and to the
Federation.
The Lord protect your excellency many years.
Mexico, the 16th of April, 1825, Alaman. This is a copy. Juan Antonio Padilla.
No. 55. Most Excellent Sir: The alcalde of Nacogdoches in an official letter of
the 31st of December of the year last past, communicates to me that by an express
messenger from the Shawnee Indians ne had notice that there were already on the
way five thousand families to settle themselves at the point designated by the Gov-
ernment; and although I should take care that upon their arrival tney should conform
themselves to that wnich is directed by his excellency the President upon approving
their immigration. I find difficulty in obtaining the competent aid of troops, by
reason of the fact that those who are in garrison in this capital being reduced in num-
bers and the cavalry dismounted, it is not possible that so long a march should be
undertaken.
God and liberty. Bexar, February 19th, 1826. Most excellent sir: Jose Antonio
Saucedo. To his excellency the governor of this State. Don Rafael Gonzales.
No. 16. Most Exceu.ent Sir: The chief of the Department of Texas, in official
note No. 55, of the 19th of February last, tells me the following:
"Most Excellent Sir: The alcalde of Nacogdoches in official letter of the 31st
of December of the year last past, et cetra, which I communicate to your excellency,
trusting that you wfll please send up the same, bringing it to the notice of his excel-
lency the President of the Republic, for the measures which he may think proper to
dictate in view of that which is shown by the before mentioned chief of Texas.
God and liberty. Saltillo, 20th of March, 1826, Jose Ignacio Arispe, Juan Antonio
Padilla, secretary. To his excellency the minister of state and relations.
This is a copy.
Santiago del Valle, Secretary,
State op Texas, General Land Office,
Austin, September 11th, 1896.
I certify that the foregoing nine paRes and nine lines contains a correct translated
copy of all the records concerning the Snawnee Indians existing in the Spanish archives
of this office.
Martin M. Ken n by.
Spanish Translator.
I, M. E. Gross, chief clerk and acting commissioner of the general land office of the
State of Texas, do hereby certify that Martin M. Kenney^ whose signature is subscribed
to the foregoiuK certificate, is the Spanish translator of tnis office, ouly qualified accord-
ing to law, and that his official acts as such are entitled to full jfaith and credit.
In testimony whereof, I have hereto set my hand and caused the seal of this office to
be affixed on the day and date last above written.
[real.] M. E. Gross,
Chief Clerk and Acting Commissioner.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1906
Letter on file In the Indian Office, Washington, D. C.
Choctaw Aobncy, i9th Aprily 18S6,
Elbert Herring, Esq., Com, of Ind. Affa,
Sir: I have the honor to enclose you a copy of the communication from Major P. L.
Choteau to General Arbuckle and Govemor Stokes. You will perceive from it that
everythine indicates peace and friendshii) on the frontier. The only difficulty to be
apprehended is from nunting parties taking each other's horses. This may lead to
reprisals from one another, and eventually produce misunderstanding.
1 will take every opportunity to inform the Indians that in every instance where
their horses have been stolen from them they must immediately state the fact to their
subagent and not attempt to indemnify themselves by taking the same number of
horses to make up their losses.
There are some Cherokees, Creeks, a few families of Chotaws, and also of Delawares
and Shawnees, that have settled in Texas. They are not wiUiin the control of this
superintendency, and have been for some time settled near the Sabine. I understand
from one of the party, a Creek, that has lately returned from there, that they have
generally espoused the Mexican cause, otherwise there is no feeling at present with
the Indians to engage in the war now going on between the Texans and Mexicans.
Respectfully your obedient servant,
Wm. Armstrong,
Act. Supt. West Tex. T.
From Wllharger*! Indian Depredations, page 167.
THE CHEROKEE WAR.
The Texan government were now in possession of the correspondence between
Cordova and the Mexican officials — General Canalizo and Filisola — captured by Rice's
party, as heretofore related, in the fight with Flores on the San Gabnel, and of course
were fully i)06ted as to the intended movements of the various tribes of Indians who
at that time inhabited eastern Texas, conspicuous among whom was Bowles, chief of
tie Cherokees, and who was looked upon by his associated tribes as a kind of leader
or headman among them all. The Cherokees and their associated tribes — the Dela-
wares, Kickapoos, Seminoles, Shawnees, and others, numbering some twelve tribes —
had settled in eastern Texas as early as 1822, and had established a village north of
Nacogdoches, the town at that time bein^ a waste, lately swept by the forces of Long
and rerez. These Indians owned a considerable number of stock, had cultivated the
lands to some extent, and had made some progress in the direction of civilization.
As late as 1835 there were no settlers in northern Texas except a few on Red River.
While the revolution was going on, from September, 1835, to April, 1836, great uneasi-
ness was felt aiiiong the whites lest Cordova and other Mexican emissaries, who were
known to be amon^ the Indians, should pursuade them to take an active part against
Texas m her war with Mexico. To avert such a threatening,danger Gen. Sam Houston
sent commissioners — John Forbes and Doctor Cameron— among the Indians to nego-
tiate a treaty with them, and if possible get them to assume a neutral position. Their
mission was only partially successiful, however, and the whites were still distrustful.
During all this time General Houston's little army had all they could do to attend to
Santa Anna, who was marching upon Texas with vastly superior forces, laying waste
the country on his entire line of march. The settlers, neemg from the invading army
of Santa Anna, were moving along the frontier, scattered all along from the Trinity
River to the Sabine. It was at this critical juncture that Maj. Gen. Edraond P.
Gaines, U. S. Army, crossed the Sabine at the head of 500 men and established head-
quarters at Nacogdoches. He immediately sent messengers to the Indians with instruc-
tions to say to them that if any of the Texan women and children were killed by them
he would at once attack them with his whole force. This bold move of the patriot and
soldier. General Gaines, had its desired effect and restrained the Indians, if they had
any intention of depredating at that time. The memory of this gallant soldier and
true patriot should oe held dear by all Texans for the generous and timely aid he
rendered them in this hour of need.
This battle of San Jacinto was fought soon after this, which gave the Texans great
prestige, and the defeat of Santa Ana saved the people of eastern Texas from imme-
diate danger from the Indians, though the feeling of enmity still existed between
them and the whites. It was not long before the families of Pierce and Killoueh
were murdered, only three or four of the latter escaping, and these were brought
into the settlements by the Cherokees, who cunningly represented to th^ €>^^x^\ax^
1906 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
of War that these murdere had been committed by the prairie Indians and treach-
erous Mexicans. To prevent such occurrences, **\lak)r Walters (see Yoakum, vol. 2,
p. 267, and reference to Report of Secretary of War, November, 1839, p. 6) had been
ordered with two companies to occupy the Neches Saline, not only to watch the
Cherokees, but to cut on their intercourse with the Indians of the prairies. Bowles,
the Cherokee chief, notified Major Walters that he would repel by force such occu-
pation of the Saline. As the major's force was too small to carry out his orders, he
established his post on the west bank of the Neches, out of the Cherokee territory."
Gen. Sam Houston, while President of the Republic, did all in his power to allay
the growing excitement and preserve peace. Having spent his early boyhood in the
mountains of Tennessee, in close proximity to the Cherokees, and, previous to his
coming to Texas, having lived amon^ them for four years, he was familiar with their
character and customs, and in addition to this, being very popular with this tribe,
he necessarily exercised great influence over them. This oemg generally known,
caused many to suspect that General Houston had delayed in taking any decisive
steps against the Cherokees because he was more favorably inclined to them than to
his own people. ''Indeed," says an old Texan, "so strongly was this opinion enter-
tained at the time by many of the Texans, that nothing but General Houston's great
personal popularity could have sustained him in the almost neutral position he occu-
pied in regard to the troubles then existing between his quondam friends, the Chero-
kees, and their white neighbors." However this may be, it is evident that he natur-
ally felt kindly toward them, and was anxious to preserve peace between them and
the Texans. Moreover, Houston was aware that it frequently happened that lawless
whites upon the border, in some instances, were to blame for the outrages committed
by the Indians in a spirit of retaliation, and no doubt he adopted a conciliatory policy
and delayed taking any decisive action until he could definitely ascertain, first, who
were the guilty parties, and to what extent the Indians were to blame, and he would
then be in a condition to deal fairly with both parties.
However, General Houston's forbearance toward the Indians seems to have been
exhausted, and in the latter part of his administration General Rusk, commander in
chief of the militia forces of the Republic, was ordered out. It seems that on the 4th of
August, 1838, a party of citizens went in pursuit of some stolen horses, and after going
some distance found them secreted in a Mexican settlement, and on their return they
were fired upon and one of their number killed. Several persons set out on their trail
in pursuit ot the murderers, but after traveling some distance they became convinced
from the size of the trail that there were a considerable number of Mexicans and they
returned home. About the 7th of August it was ascertained that about 100 or more
Mexicans were encamped about the Angelina under the command of Nathaniel Morris,
Cordova, and Cruz. General Rusk maSe an immediate requisition for men. On the
evening of the 10th is was reported that the Mexicans had been joined by about 300
Indians, and that the enemy, consisting of Mexicans^and Indians, now amounted to
about 600 men. On the same day General Houston, who was then at Nacogdoches,
received a letter from the Mexican leaders, hea<led by Vincenti Cordova — the same
to whom we have made frequent allusions heretofore — disclaiming allegiance to
Texas, and then set out on their march for the Cherokee Nation. Houston having been
posted as to their movements, directed General Rusk not to cross the Angelina.
Major Augustine, with 150 men, was detached to follow the Mexican trail, while the
main Ixxiy of the Texans, under General Rusk, made for the headquarters of Bowles,
where he suspected the enemy had gone. On reaching the Saline, however, he dis-
covered that the insurgent leaaers had fled to the upper Trinity and that their followers
had dispersed. Thus ended this little expedition, but during the month of October of
the same year General Rusk was found marching at the head of alx)ut 200 men on his
wav to Fort Houston, on the Trinity, in pursuit of a motley crowd of Mexicans and
Indians who had been committing depredations on the frontier.
Learning that the enemy were at the Kickapoo town, he inarched to that place and
encamped there on the 15lh. At daybreak on the morning of the 16th he attacked
the enemy, and after the engagement had lasted about fifteen minutes, Rusk ordered
a charge. The enemy were completely routed and were pursued about a mile, leaving
eleven of their dead upon the field. This closed the engagements with the Indians
in eastern Texas for the year 1838, and after having thus disc^ussed the policy of General
Houston toward the Cherokees and their allies, we now return to the oeginnin^ of the
Cherokee War proper. Gen. Mirabeau B. Lamar having been inaugurated President of
the Republic on the 9th of December, 1838, and being in full sympathy with the Avhites,
it was quite apparent that his policy toward the Indians would ne an aggressive one.
After his inauguration he attempted a reconciliation of the existing troubles, but failing
to effect a peaceful removal of the Indians, or to get any satisfactory assurances from
them that tney would cease depredating upon the whites in the future, he determined
APPAlBS 01* THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INmANS. 1907
to drive them from the country, nor did he lose any time in making the necessary
preparations. Major Walters having been stationed on the west bank of the Neches as
previously noted, Colonel Burleson, who at that time was collecting a force on the
Colorado River to operate against other Indians, was directed to march his force in
close proximity to tne Cherokee territory so that he might be prepared to enter the
siime on short notice. Burleson reached the Neches on the 14th of July with 400 men.
He was accompanied on this expedition by Vice-President David dr. Burnet, Oen.
Albert Sydney Johnston, Secretary of War, and others holding high official positions.
Colonel Landrum, with a regiment from eastern Texas, arrived about the same time.
General Rusk , with a regiment from Nacogdoches, had arrived a few days previous. The
entire force was placed under the command of Gen. K. H. Douglass.
In the afternoon of the 15th of July, the combined forces of Biu^leson, Rusk, and
Landrum, under the command of General Douglass, attacked the Cherokees and their
allied bands, who had taken up a strong f>osition about 7 miles up the river above
the "council ^unds" and were awaiting the attack. The Texans, coming up in
the open prairie, were fired oh by the Indians, who occupied a hill near a ravine, and
then retreated in the ravine. The engagement then became general. The ground
was stubbornly contested by the Indians, and from a little before sunset, when the
fight began, until dark, the conflict was sharp and fierce. Finally, however, the
Texans made a determined charge upon the Indians and the latter fled, leaving
behind them on the field 18 of their warriors dead. The Texans only had 3 killed
and 5 wounded. During the night the Indians retreated several miles, and when
the Texans came upon them in the afternoon of the 16th they found the enemy
strongly posted in a wooded ravine about half a mile from the Neches, ready for
battle. The Texans were compelled to advance through an open country and con-
sequently were greatly exposed to the fire of the enemy, but they continued to advance,
pouring hot shot into the redskins. The Indians, after stanmng their grounds for a
while, finally fled into the Neches bottom and sought protection in the swamps and
thickets, not attempting to make another stand. This was a hotly-contested battle,
and during the engagement, which lasted about an hour and a half, the Indians had
about 100 of their warriors killed and wounded, and among the former was their dis-
tinguished chief, Bowles. The Texans lost 5 killed and 27 wounded; among the
latter were Vice-President Burnet, Gen. Albert Sydney Johnston, Adjutant-General
McLoud, and Major Kaufman. The Indians were completely rout€Kl in this engage-
ment, and, notwithstanding they had an estimated force of about 800, against ^0
Texans, they were taught by this engagement the superior generalship of me whites
over the Indians.
Their trail was followed for several days by the Texans who passed many of the
Ii^dians' villages and cornfields; all of which were destroyed by the Texans. On the
evening of the 25th pursuit was abandoned, whereupon the troops were all marched
home and mustered out of service. This was the last fight between the whites and
the Cherokees in eastern Texas, but, notwithytanding the crushing defeat they had
sustained, they continued for several months depredating upon the lives and prop-
erty of the frontier people. After the death of Bowles, nis son John and an Indian
named Egg, became the head chiefs of the allied tribes, who now took refuge on the
head waters of the Trinity River, where they remained for a few months.
In the fall of 1839, John Bowles and Egg attempted to lead their followers into
Mexico, passing entirely above the settlements. But Colonel Burleson, who hap-
pened to DO out on a campakn against the wild tribes, came across their trail, followed
It, and attacked them on Cherokee Creek near the mouth of the San Saba River,
some 75 miles above Austin. This was on Christmas Day. John Bowles and Egg
were l>oth killed in the engagement and several of the warriors and 27 women and
children captured, among whom was the wife of Chief Bowles, who had been killed
in eastern Texas. All their camp equipage was also captured. The Indians fought
desperately for a short time in this engagement, but they could not stand very long
the hot fire that was being poured into tnem by the Texans. Those of the redskins
who escaped from this fight retraced their steps and joined their kindred in the
Indian Territory. This was the last fight with the Cherokees in Texas. We believe
that it was in this engagement that the pliant Capt. John L. Lynch was killed while
leading a charge against the enemy. The Indian prisoners were all delivered by
Colonel Burleson to the agent of the Government.
In the year 1839 a general order was issued by the I'ederal Government for the
removal of all Indians from the then Republic of Texas. Through the intercessions
of the then acflng president of the provisional government of Texas, Lamar, the Com-
misBioner who was charged with carrying out the order of removed was ptev4a!l%^ >r^w
1908 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDIAKS.
not to molest or remove the Kickapooe, Shawnees, and Dela wares, to whom later a
grant in common was made for services rendered by them in protecting the border
of the Republic against the hostile Indians. This grant was 40 miles square, pituated
on the Brazos River.
I>ooainentary hlntory of deallni^ii with Texas by theiie alllllated triben.
Be it solemnly decreed, That we, the chosen delegates of the consultation of Texas,
in general convention assembled, solemnly declare that the Cherokee Indians and
thoir associate bands, twelve tribes in number, agreeably to their last general council
in Texas, have derived their just claims to lands, included within the bounds herein-
after mentioned, from the government of Mexico, from whom we have also derived
our rights to the soil by ^ant and occupancy.
We solemnly declare that the boundaries of the claims of the said Indians to land i.<
as follows, to wit: Lyin^ north of the San Antonio road 'and the Neches and west of
Angelina and Sabine nvers. We solemnlv declare that the ^vemor and general
council, inmiediately on its organization, shall appoint Commissioners to treat with
the said Indians, to establish the definite boundary of their territory and secure thoir
confidence and friendship.
We solemnly declare tnat we will guarantee to them the peaceable enjoyment to
their rights to their lands, as we do our own. We solemnlv declare that all grants,
surveys, and locations of lands within the bounds hereinoefore mentioned, made
after the settlement of the said Indians, are, and of right ought to be, utterly null
and void and that the Commissioners issuing the same be and are herebv ordered
immediately to recall and cancel the same oh having been made upon lands airraid y
appropriatea by the Mexican Government.
We solemnly declare that it is our sincere desire that the Cherokee Indians and
their associate bands should remain our friends, in peace and war, and if they do so,
we pledge the public faith for the support of the foregoing declarations. We solemnly
declare that they are entitled to our commiseration and protection, as the just owners
of the soil, as an unfortunate race of y>eople that we wish to hold as friends and treat
with justice. Deeply and solemnly impressecl with these sentiments, as a mark of
sincerity, your committee would respertfully recommend the adoption of the follow-
ing resolution:
Resolvcdy That the members of this convention now present sign this declaration
and pledge of the public faith on the part of the people of Texas.
Done in convention at San Felipe de Austin, this 13th day of November, A. D. 1835.
(Signed) B. T. Archer, Pr.; John A. Wliarton, Meriwether W. Smith, Sam
Houston, William Menifee, Chas. Wilson, Wm. N. Sigler, James
Hodges, Wm. W. Arrinj?ton, John Bevil, Wm. S. Fisher, Alex. Tliomp-
son, J. G. V. Pierson, I). C. Barrett, R. Jones, Jesse Bumam, Ixjrenzo ae
Zavala, A. Horton, Edwin Waller, Daniel Parker, Wm. P. Harris, John
S. D. Byrom, Wm. Whitaker, A. G. Perry, Albert G. Kelloce^C. C.
Dyer, Geo. M. Patrick, J. D. Clements, Claiborne West, Jas. W. Parker,
J. S. Lester, Geo. W. Davis, Joseph L. Hood, A. E. Johnson, Asa Iloxey,
Martin Parmer, Asa Mitchell, L. H. Everett, R. M. Williamson, Philip
Coe, R. R. Royall, John W. Moore^ Beni. Fugua, Sam. T. Allen, Wyatt
Hanks, James W. Robinson, Henry Millard, Jesse Grimes, A. B. Har-
din, Wyly Martin, Henry Smith, David B. Macomb, A. Houston, E.
Collard; r. D. Dexter, secretary.
I, James Pearson Newcomb, secretary of state of the State of Texas, do hereby cer-
tify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the original declaration on file in
this office (which declaration, however, it is believed, was never carried into effect),
and affix the seal of office this 25th day of Noveml>er, A. D. 1870.
(Seal of the department of the State of Texas.)
Jas. p. Newcomb, Secretary of State.
Signed per J. E. Oldright, acting secretar>' of state.
Be it resolved by the general council of the provisional government of Texas:
That Sam Houston, John Forbes, and John Cameron be, and they are hereby, ap-
pointed commissioners to treat with the Cherokee Indians and their twelve associate
bands, under such instructions as may bepiven them by the governor and council, and
should it so happen that all the commissioners can not attend, any two of them shall
have power to conclude a treaty and report the same to the general council of the pro-
vincial government for its approval and ratification.
(PMSBsd December 22nd, 1856.)
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1909
Be it resolvedy etc. j by the general councU of the provincial governTnent of Texas:
Section 1. That Sam Houston, John Forbes, and John (^uneron, appointed com-
mifisioners to treat with the aforesaid Indians be, and they are hereby, mstructed to
proceed as soon as practicable to Nacogdoches and hold a treaty with the Indians
aforesaid, and that tney shall in no wise transcend the declarations made by the con-
sultation of November last in any of their articles of treaty.
Section 2. And be it further resolved, etc.. That they are required in all things to pur-
sue a course of justice and equity toward the Indians, and protect all honest claims of
the whites, agreeably to such laws, compacts or treaties as the said Indians may have
heretofore made with the Republic of Mexico, and the said commissioners be instructed
to provide in said treafty witn the Indians, that they shall never alienate their lands,
either separately or collectively, except to the government of Texas, and to agree that
the said government of Texas, will at any time hereafter purchase all their claims at a
f aiv and reasonable valuation.
&hBCTioN3. Beitfwrtherresolvedyetc., That the Governor be required to give the com-
mianoners such definite and particular instructions as he may think necessary to carrv
inta effect the foregoing resofutions, together with such additional instructions as will
secure the effective cooperation of the Indians at a time when it may be necessary to
call the effective force ol Texas into the field, and agreeing for their services in a body
for a specified time.
Section 4. Be it further resolved, etc.. That the commissioners be authorized and
empowered to exchange other lanos within the limits of Texas, not otherwise appro-
priated, in place of the lands claimed by said Cherokee Indians and their associate
bands. (Passed at San Felipe de Austin, December 26th, 1835. Approved December
28th, 1835.)
Ordinance!, ete., of Texas.
An act to repeal an act entitled. " An act to sectionize and sell the lands formerly re-
served for and occupied by the Cnerokee Indians." approved February 1st, 1840; also
to repeal an act entitled, "An act to provide for tne survey and sale of a portion of the
territory formerly occupied by the Cherokee Indians," approved July 23rd, 1842.
Article 4547 (2106). The act entitled, "An act to sectionize and sell the lands for-
merly reserved for and occupied by the Cherokee Indians," approved February Ist,
1840; also an act entitled, "An act to provide for the survey and sale of a portion of
the territory formerly occupied by the Cherokee Indians," approved July 23rd, 1842,
be and the same are hereby repealed.
Passed January 27th, 1844.
(PaschaPs Digest of the Laws of Texas, page 749, second edition.)
Ck>py of the treaty between Texas and the Texas Indians,
This treaty, made and established between Sam Houston and John Forbes, commis-
sioners on the part of the provisional government of Texas, on the one part, and the
Cherokees and their associate bands, now residing in Texas, of the other part, to wit:
Shawnees, Delawares, Kickapoos, Quapoos, Choctaws, Boluxies, Jawanies. Alabamas,
Cochaties, Caddos, of the Neches Tahovcattakes. and Unatuquous, by the nead chiefs,
head men, and warriors of the Cherokees, as elder brother and representative of all
other bands, agreeable to their last general council. This treaty is made conformable
to a declaration made by the general consultation, at St. Felipe, and dated 13th Novem-
ber, A. D. 1835.
Abticlb First.
The parties declare that there shall be a firm and lasting peace forever, and that a
friendly intercourse shall be preserved by the people belonging to both parties.
Articlb Sbcond.
It is agreed and declared that the before-named tribes or bands shall form one com-
munity, and that they shall have and possess the lands within the following bounds, to
wit: Lying west of the San Antonio road and beginning on the west at the point where
the said road crosses the river Angelina, and running up said river until it reaches the
mouth of the first large creek — below tlie Great Shawnee village^mptying into the
said river from the northeast, thence running with said creek to its main source, and
from thence a due north line to the Sabine River, and with said river west, then start-
ing where the San Antonio road crosses the Aneelina River, and with said road to the
pK>mt where it crosses the Neches River, and thence running up the east side of said
river in a northwest direction.
1910 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
Artictle Thi&d.
All lands Rranted or settled in good faith previous to the settlement of the Cherokees,
within the before-described bounds, are not conveyed by this treaty, but excepted
from its operation. All persons who have once been removed and return shall be
considerea as intruders, and their settlements not be respected.
Article Fourth.
It is agreed by the parties aforesaid that the several bands or tribes named in this
treaty shall all remove within the limits or bounds as before described.
Article Fifth.
It is agreed and declared by the parties aforesaid that the land lying and being
within the aforesaid limits shall never be sold or alienated to any person or persons,
power or government whatsoever, else than the eovemment of Texas, and the Com-
missioners, on behalf of the government of Texas, bind themselves to prevent in future
all persons from intruding within the said bounds. And it is agreed on the part of
the Cherokees for themselves and their youn^ brothers that no other tribes or bands
of Indians whatsoever shall settle within the limits Aforesaid but those already named
in this treaty and now residing in Texas.
Article Sixth.
It is declared that no individual person, member of the tribes before named, shall
have power to sell or lease land to any pefson or persons not a member or members
of this community of Indians, nor shall any citizen of Texas be allowed to lease or
buy land from any Indian or Indians.
Article Seventh.
That the Indians shall bo governed by their own regulations and laws within their
own territory, not contrary to the laws of the government of Texas. All property
stolen from the citizens of Texas or from the Indians shall be restored to the party
from whom it was stolen, and the offender or offenders shall be punished by the party
to whom he or they may belong.
Article Eighth.
The government of Texas shall have power to rogulatt* trade and intercourse, but
no tax shall be pMd on the trade of the Indians.
Article Ninth.
The parties to this treaty agree that one or more agencies shall be created, and at
U'ast one acrcnt shall reside specially within the Cherokee village, whose duty it shall
be to see tnat no injustice is done to them or other members of the community of
Indians.
Article Tenth.
The parties to this treaty agree that so soon as Jack Steele and Samuel Benge shall
abandon their improvements without the limits the before recited tract of country
and remove within the same, that they shall be valued and paid for by the government
of Texas — ^the said Jack Steele and Samuel Benge having until the month of Novem-
ber, next succeeding from the date of this treaty, allowoa them to remove within the
limits before described. And that all the lands and improvements now occupied by
any of the before-named bands or tribes not lyin^ within the limits before described
shall belong to the government of Texas, and subject to its disposal.
Article Eleventh.
The parties to this treatv agree and stipulate that all the bands of tribes, as before
recited (except Steele ana Benge), shall remove within the before-described limits
wit^n eight monUis from the date of this treaty.
AlTAnUS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDXAl^fi. 1911
Abtscle Twelfth.
Tlie pgrtieB to this treaty agree that nothing herein contained ahsU affect the relar
tioDS ot the Sabines or the N^dies, not the settlers in the neighborhood thereof, until
a general council of the several bands shall take place and the pleasure of the con-
vention ol Texas be known.
Article Thirteenth.
It is also declared that all the titles issued to lands not agreeably to the declaration
of the general consultation of the people of all Texas, dated the thirteenth day of
November, eighteen hundred and thirty-five, within the before-recited limits, are
declared void, as well as all orders and surveys made in relation to the same.
Done at Colonel Bowles* vilh«e, on the twenty-third day of February, eighteen
hundred and thirty-six, and the first year of the provisional government of Texas.
Sam Houston.
John Forbes.
Witness:
Fox Fields (his x mark). Big Mush (his x mark).
Henry Millard. Samuel Benge (his x mark).
Joseph Durst. Oosovta (his x mark).
A. HoRTON. Corn Tassell (his x mark).
Geo. W. Case. The Egg (his x mark).
Mathias a. Bingham. John Bowl.
Colonel Bowls (his x mark). Tunnetee (his x mark).
George V. Hockley,
Secretary of Commisnon.
Department op State,
Austin, Texas, Dec, 7th, 1870,
I, Jamasi P. Newcomb, secretary of state of the State of Texas, hereby certify that
the above and for^goine is a true and correct copy of the original on file in this office,
in testimony whereof, 1 have hereunto signed my name and caused the seal of the
department of state to be afi&xed, day and oate as above written.
(Seal of the department of state of Texas.)
James P. Newcomb,
Secretary of State.
Per J. E. Oldright, Acting Sec'y of State.
District op Columbia,
County df Waahington, tovnt:
I, Joseph T. K. Plant, a commissioner of deeds, etc., of the State of Texas, for
the district afcoesaid, do hereby certify that the above foregoing is a true and accurate
copy made by myself from the original copy signed by J. E. Oldright, as acting secre-
ta^ of state of Texas, and that the seal of tne department of state is thereon.
Witness my hand and official seal this eleventh day of February A. D. 1871.
Joseph T. K. Plant,
Commissioner of the State of Texas.
(Seal of the State of Texas, Joseph T. K. Plant, commissioner of deeds, Washing-
ton, D. C.)
Liatt^r on file In the Indian Office.
Deff. op State,
Washington, March 4th, 1840.
Hon. Joel R. Poinsett, Secretary of War.
Sib: I have the honor to enclose for your information an extract from a letter received
at this Department on the 3rd instant, from the United States consul at Matamoras.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
John Forsyth.
[Extract from a letter dated let January, iSiO, received at the Department of State, from the United
States consul at Matamoras, on the 3rd of March, 1840, after the Texas forces had diivai the Indians
off the Sabine Grant.]
During the last six months various small parties of Indians have arrived in this
city at omerent times from the eastern part oi Texas, consisting principally of Chero-
kees, Delawares, Kickapops, and Caddoes. They muster at present about ei%b.t<j
1912 AFFATBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
warriors, all of whom, it would seem, have entered into the Mexican service. They
draw their rations and have been furnished with arms, ammunition, clothing, etc.
Some of the head men have lately returned from a visit to their respective tribes.
One of them, who speaks English and calls himself Jim, informed me that he had
visited several Indian tribes within the limits of the United States, particularly the
Delawares. I have been unable to elicit from him anything of importance with regard
to the object of the mission. It would be well, however, to appraise the Indian
agents on Uie western border of the United States of these movements, in order that
tney may be on the alert and check any improper interference with the tribes under
theu* charge.
On the nth ultimo a party of these Indians, together with several Mexicans, fell
in with six Texans, accompanied by two Mexican servants, on their way from Mier
to San Antonio de Bexar. They killed all the Texans, stripped them of their clothing
and effects, and brought the two servants prisoners to this place. It is said Ck)lonel
Ross* was one of the Texan party.
Apre«inent of del^^t«s of Klokapoo, Delaware, Shawnee, Wichita, and Caddo tribes to
formulate plan for removal to Mezloo; power of attorney to O-ke-mah to locate and
select lands, and appointment of advlners to O-ke-mah.
Washington, D. C, January 16, 1896.
Piu^uant to councils held in Oklahoma and Indian Territory at various times dur-
ing the past five years, said councils being composed of delegates from the Kickapoo,
Delaware, Shawnee, Wichita, and Caddo tribes of Indians, we, the undersigned dele-
gates, have met in this city for the purpose of considering and formulating a plan for
the removal of those of our people to the Republic of Mexico who may hereafter
desire to so remove. After consulting with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and
the chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and after counciling among
ourselves, and after having heard the report of the delegates sent by us to the Repub-
lic of Mexico, pursuant to council proceedings held neretofore m Oklahoma, it is
agreed by us that in view of the fact that a portion of the Kickapoo tribe now resides
in the Republic of Mexico and are well acquainted with the language, chajracter,
and customs of the people, that the Kicka^x) tribe residing near SlSiwnee, Okla-
homa, shall with the greatest possible expedition arrange in tne Republic of Mexico
for suJficient land upon which our people desiring to emigrate to that Republic may
locate and shall remove to that Republic, and that so fast as our people may be able
to also emigrate they shall be received by said Kickapoo tribe as affiliates and mem-
bers of that tribe entitled to all the rights and privil^^ of membership therein, and
entitled to share in the common property of said tribe upon paying into the common
funds the proceeds of whatever land or other property they may have left behind
them in the United States.
For the purposes of carrying this agreement into effect we each and all of us^ having
full confidence in the honesty, fidelity and eood judgment of Okemah, a Kickapoo
residing at Shawnee, do hereby constitute ana appoint him as our agent and attorney
in fact for the purposes of locating and selecting lands suitable to our use, as above
stated; and further, as advisers of the said Okemah we name and appoint Big Jim.
chief of the Shawnees, Jack Harry, of the Delawares, Sam Houston, of the Caddoe ana
Wichitas, and Jacob Tomahawk, of the Eastern Shawnees and Delawsures.
Bio Jim (his x mark).
Joe Blanchard (his x mark).
Wah-pe-the (his x mark).
Pam-eth (his x mark).
Ke-sho-ko-me (his x mark).
Pam-o-wa (his X mark).
Bar-sin-de-bar (Yob x mark).
Sam Holtston (his x mark).
Thomas Wister (his x mark).
Jack Harry (his x mark).
David Polbr.
Stanley Edge.
In presence of,
B. F. Bevridob.
W. C. Shelley.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1913
Agreement of representatlTes of Caddoi, Klokapoos, Shawnees, and Delaware Indians
to employ M. J. Bentley to aoqulre lands In Mexico for them.
Sabinas, Mexico, AuguBt tS^ 1900.
We represent our bands of Caddos and Kickapoos and Shawnees and Dela wares.
Long time ago we met in Washington and fixed it with Senators to come here in Mexico
all together. Now we are here and we like the country and see these Kickapoos here
in Naciemeento Goahuila State do good. We all agree to hire Bentley to fix for us
some land here right awav for we in hurry leave Oklahoma Territory. Big Jim and
Stanley Eklge must go nciit away with some Kickapoos and see him then come back
and hunt land. We see Fiedra filanco and it is good place for ufr— plenty cattle, good
miss and good water. Plenty good country in mountains in Chihuahua and Senora.
We make new home where we have old wav. We like old way, Great Spirit make
UB Indians. We be Indians always here in Mexico.
Bio Jim (his x mark).
Jack Habry (his x mark).
David Poler.
0-KB-MAH.
Jacob Tomahawk.
Stanley Edge.
David Wildcat (his x mark)-.
Witness:
Stanley Edge.
David Poler.
United States Senate,
Washington, D, C, January 14, 190S.
Hon. W. A. Jones,
Commissumer of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C.
My Dear Mr. Jones: Will you please read and return inclosure, with such a
reply as I may forward to my correspondent? t
Yours, very truly, M. S. Quay.
Shawnee, Okla., January 10, 1903.
Hon. M. S. Quay,
United States Senate, Washington, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to address you in behalf of Pah ko tah, a Mexican Kickapoo
Indian, for whom I am attorney, and who, last Monday afternoon, with his family.
left here for Eagle Pass, Tex., near which place he intends to locate. As is usual
with Indians, he arranged to take his entire equipment with him, consisting of wagons
and mules, saddles, do^, and guns, and the usual paraphernalia, which ne himself
loaded here, making a full carload of Indian emigrant outfit. He employed a white
man to accompany the car and care for the stock, because he himself could not speak
English. As soon as he had left, the teacher in charge of the Shawnee Indian school,
who is acting agent here, attached the car and removed therefrom six of Pah ko tab's
and his family's mules, "and released the car; then after the car had left here he attached
it again 40 miles west of here, and has by every possible means attempted to restrain
and delay this Indian's property and interfere with his business, rah ko tah and
family probably arrived at then* destination Thursday nieht last, and were there
waiting without bedding or suitable shelter, while the Indian agent was here still
holding their car, which late last night was released from legal process. I have
been advised that this Indian agent is endeavoring to have an army or military offi-
cers seize this car and equipment when it arrives at Eagle Pass, Tex.
These Indians are in a sad predicament. Even when their car arrives there they
will have wagons and harness with no mules to pull them or way to proceed to then"
destination. The object of this Indian Pah ko tah, leaving his location here, was
that he was being persecuted and felt that his life was in danger here. Only a few
weeks ago drunken renegade Indian friends of the agent went to his home and beat
him nearly to death, breaking two of his ribs and pulling his hair out and stamping
him in the face with their lK)ot heels. All his relatives here had died except his
immediate family, and he has a large number of surviving relatives who live m the
neightborhood of Eagle Pass.
It is apparent that the objection the Indian agent has to the Indians leaving is the
fact that, though the agency is only 2 miles from a city of 10,000 population, the
27813—8. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 3 3
1914 AFFAIES OF THE MEXICAN KICKAK)0 INDIANS.
agent's friends maintain a store at the agencv, where the Indians are charged about
twice the usual price for goods, and whicn is the onlv place where they can get credit,
because all theur funds arising from the leasing of tneir lands and annuity money
received from the Government passes through the Indian agent's hands, and the
i«ent as a matter of course protects the agency store in collecting its accounts from
the Indians.
The defense of the Indian agent in holding these mules is that they were given to
the Indian by the Government and therefore the Grovemment may seise them or
appropriate them at any time. The fact is that they were given to the Indian under
a contract with the Government without restriction or reservation whatever, except
that the Indian agreed to neither sell nor trade them; that he would use them for his
only and exclusive use and benefit, and in this instance the Indian has neither vio-
late nor sought to violate his contract with the Grovemment in any respect.
Trusting you will feel warranted in fooldng into this matter.
I am, most respectfully,
M. J. Bbntlby.
(Original returned to Senator Quay January 15, 1903.)
IietMrd and r«portfl of th« Gomiinissloner of IndUtn Aflkirs to the Secretary of the
Interior relative to character of M. J. Bentley, and his conduct and deaUn^i iHth
the Kickapoos.
Department of the Interior, Office of Inwan Affairs,
Washington, December 14 ^ 1905.
The Sbcbetart of the Interior.
Sir: Of even date with this communication a report has been made concerning
one phase of the investigation made by supervisor of schools, Chas. H. Dickson,
into affairs relating to the Mexican Kickapoo Indians. That report is confined entirely
to the subject of seven conveyances made by certain of these Indians, which, it is
alleged, were made through the instigation and connivance of M. J. Bentley, whereby
the Indians were defrauded of their lands.
Mr. Bentle^r, as you are aware, was for several years special agent in charge of cer-
tain Indians in Oklahoma. During that time it appears that he committed many
acts which were at least reprehensible. Under date of November 4, 1903, Superin-
tendent Thackery, of the Shawnee school, made a report direct to you relative to these
matters. The report says that Bentley shipped much property bought by the Gov-
ernment and intended for the use of the Indians to Mexico; that an attempt was
made to prosecute him, but this prosecution failed through the incompetency of the
assistant district attorney or his unwillingness to do his duty.
Since Mr. Bentley has been out of the service he has been assiduously acquiring
the property of the more ignorant of the Mexican Kickapoos. One of nis favorite
practices is to induce heirs, who have sold inherited land, to let him have their money
for safe-keeping. There is now pending in the district court of Pottawatomie County,
Okla., a suit brought by Mary Penethoas plaintiff against Bentley to recover monevB
Bentley received under agreement to deposit with the First National Bank of tie
City of Shawnee, Okla. Bentley took from this woman the sum of $7,000, as she
alleges, for the purpose of depositing it to her credit, as above stated. He gave her
what she believed was a receipt for the money, but it is found to be a promissory note.
He has repaid $1,678. In his testimony before the first court of letters in the district
of Monclova, Mexico, during Mr. Dickson's investigation, Bentley admitted tliat
he had received $2,000 from Pequa, $1,200 from Nancy Pecan, and $3,000 from Emma
Garland to safeguard for them, and money from others that he did not remember.
All these amounts he claims to have returned. On direct question he admitted
that he had received $5,000 from Ah tah meh skah mi quah, and that she died on the
16th day of February, 1905. Of this amount $3,000 was in the form of a deposit and
$2,000 a loan. He claims to have paid to this woman before her death $3,035, and at
her death he owed her $1,975; that since her death he has maintained her daughter
until her death, which occurred in June, 1905, having paid all the expenses incident
to her sickness and burial, and that he advanced some money to the daughter's heir
and is holding the balance until the estate is probated.
Inclosure No. 40 of Mr. Dickson's report contains a copy of a paper in the hands
of Tah na the hah, a Kickapoo Indian, shown to Supervisor Dickson July 24, 1906,
which reads:
"Received of Tah na the hah the sum of $680, in trust, to be used by me to best
protect and care for the interests, maintenance, and welfare of the said Tan na the hah,
etc., this 2d day of December, 1903.
"Martin J. Bsntuit."
<Qr XKK itnx'.k^ kbckapckm lan^ASi^ Wli
wm ihit —If I IT -warn ^nuii in» hv vr likiSAaAfy.. ti^tsnk jo Skatwimm
JhfxoMcr. itt ymc^tfte lE j» iisiic «uf : 'i^sic m*^ inn fr?W' kuc lan* jr kL ^t ikaKikTr- «Oair
Jiff nJniTi «Br ^ Ikuuiky % iiil^vraR sBrfi » 5tsas«^ j^itHTKiaMl iieniar is ittK^ ia^ooi
bgAutofc. -Wttci farabf aaon iuf -skte mHnfT and inttmhc ing w ^uttat jb vsrit Mr Bgin^fn-^
M^ mt -am 3»3ibeim«Qr Tai« iifar^n- eht* imLaarT |jig»»r "<i^^«L i**- fasm*- ii'!rj» "kt*
ii^sa^n i»*- l«i ii«iKii»T' ^ib J uui h iiTrui» tun oii» inn kiitiv iKtr aiiii'^ 3ji«iiLk7- -BkiPVHifd
■SDmni: i^ apw»irx»wC m mix ?ni»- iiiiifr.
a« rasTT- laniiziid in- mut^ xuitu^. -m f^^w unoa tmtr ii' ^Knrdk-r mic prvt- iiin. '.^
[ Ti« £i«df P»E. idim iie Twieruiio jdl liae W kkC ^Ks^usri^d. Is^exniAeT
! '&fe mampr %v EmA^ f*iHfc.
loi ■■t'**Hu<fl ruzmmimtaaaiiiff Si^iecniifesiOfaii Tiurjfifirr hut juzmaa^c Toaa Ms.
JifsirflfQr hut Imat «u]i» «€ 3iiiiiieT t^'.niciiir '^' 'i^ ilirttiHw. -vinii: loert muHxiiffi
'life 'tilR^ -adf' "hi JlCitBBSMfC luXiOh. Sft- It^mtrr^ niaSI XUl* Ift^inM- iitn'^ ii'.fl^ixu^ i: tilit«fr
5w 2L- sikfi i^flB J3 iftRnr dic iiimf TSUfrr vnukc mn 3niwni«' uh i^saiM^ it wirzixinsm- «i*
J&oitisiMr w^ktBXLet 4Kfeix» ti- W ii ^wi Tkdu4»nJrt- iuudt^ inn*7 inuL Tin- lucusuf vrii'.iux
^R^piirt It -dfr iumftti ii]l>.fCKfei- -dJ^Riix '-.TiHua«»c li ii'.T|^»^««? -twrain- }»»rTjii»nn iiwf
£rjiEH^wf» ^d 6€n#Mihitft mtiupT it ii» iuoiOf zc uBrder liur. lit- nnriR smsruurc dn..
3Bt;immMLifud -^a«i tuer laiit i»u: w. liiui -an* lit ia»e n'.- tnifsr f uhcj* liiasi; -diuHt- Q»^j#«sh«d
-flShff?: -Sue i# uH laif* 3iii!i«nr jirx:ii'?ec 17 "LU* auk ul4«^ v.iuic i#^ i:i"^^«ii 11 ^jl^^xl 'riuc
"tiipT nMfOffd IV irwf ioj. ^^ 3»iimaiia*r x x. -w^cm: mifii'aeir: v. taj iiaic n. Mtaa-rt-..
QDiui-iBud.. i^oB -^Liiid mia'A nucin t»^ '.r.iucin 'muic \i^ ihj?^ lii*^EJ'.*i '.r jl T^^.nt-,.
Slid wuiiid W MC^iidbtamfd v -uW we^^n; lucjimi' 33. ^r-ijtjra'.ir i-, ■uii*^ mioit^ 2ir««««^*id
W 'fmA line. J^tfid ^v ^tmi^ x "linf np«*wii«in -wiih 21. vnour '»? "v^friMai i^ ypjiiitKi
'tfflC ii -w» %nr jESTiim' MPtiBUieij: A«i»tc -wiifTuU^r irt^ iibC '".ni!5iii*tc vTuL int 5«n
IB -tiif jHumnien: iii auli '.r ol jjur.. i^ »imHww»tt -«iur» i*»- imt '.-.oigai**:. «; iii? i» x iiud
iwQL ^UBsiiik- 5vr iuu. ^i Qi «•. -ua.i ij*r niif «tr. L.«.«.nr. nu^onr '"ii»r IC'.cfckh*et iuuai^.
ofiosni^ ^S»iWiU. JfteacitaiL. ant imc uiuj.»t?: ".auju^i**! uiRr >nir'iutt» iiir. il -^ end
-fiff i«*t!ii«r wiiuid 3Jin mfeu- -uIHt ^nawiftr uim: in- liiit uhiv i#»«i 2l liift Suiiit .c I^unajffi'
iwetms^ iuxid. auc iii«- nn '»iu«*^t v rcinir 'i^ uiif -vni'^ it in*- iiusm^Bf' unc in linr
y luwmc "ioDtt Sif » "Bwanaar air "UiH^^ur'^uufr .c JtK JtenriK^f .ciiiiiCi imi. *j»*fu«a-l 3^KTai^«:
tiJir ludiuaiK tiuK imr imt "uiiiim*««j'.iij*r> *m:5ain'*tc i'.r uj*^ iii*»;#e"Li:a tiiC •viKr-* '.as
tiif- JaiXfd«^ Tiiafi !«- nanr iHar.nnuV' r.r 7'. muL u; 1»»- 'uumii^ i-. iil^* <«;uC "Uii*^ itatOf
JifT-jift- Jbitiaiiih 11 iarv**- inuc "lihol l «nu*L tju.'uir: o.nn t-nc i*. t»»- ii uciinf "ui*^ iiunoi'*:.
sift "Stiic iif it irunc "Wi' 3in«*?K: r» jr -aii*ai- Tii*^ '»wciiu ny r ui» luCLu-itf if CLL**t"-^7
ii tut *i%iiii'nc7 ^Tirt-t d' 11. r -Hriii**^^ '.A*»ii' iuu:tt as* <« ud yryj^ "LIi*^ ri.'^r:ii.rL .c '.lUf
lUfumtK:. inn litiiiit: "dai: «i»e.v la *- mri»*^c 5ik}««t^ teuui-.r^inrur i»«iruA^T -.. ^ni'^imni^
iamr vJivmsuaxst iur iant jr M»!2j'';
4«it Slid yii "cii^fc. jk ^mip^tjiLM'^ uiiC iin*iLuB*nn '-iirjjtei *<; iiiu'i « 'uxur: jut- iu«^ ♦fttu-
^SMfC ii» i^ukimt iit b nuoiirtr iu* t.\t.^h '^nir. .c iiu-17 .u^vxia^ni* n. cr.*\*t iir"i:mrtua»'.«»
1916 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
the Indians several days in their camp. In a statement dated September 8, 1905,
he says:
''I gave it as my candid opinion, after hearing all the testimony at Muzquiz, Mexico,
of Okemah and wife, as well as the other Indians who were made to sign papers (deeds)
at Eagle Pass^ Tex., and at their camp near Muzcjuiz, and after thoroughly canvassing
the matter with said Indians at their camp and in Muzquiz, there is no doubt in my
mind that, first, these deeds were not explained to, or understood by, a sinele one of
the Indians; second, that all the Indians, except one, fully believea that the papers
which they signed related not to a sale of their lands but to an agreement to exchange
their lands in Oklahoma for lands in Mexico | third, that none of the Indians con-
sidered that the little money which thev received was in payment for their land or
in part payment; fourth, that the whole transaction from beginning to end was a
stupendous fraud upon these Kickapoo Indians."
He also provided another statement relative to a conversation Bentley had with
him in a barber shop in Muzquiz. Bentley asked him when the Sac and Fox of
Oklahoma would receive patent in fee to one-half their allotments. He told him
on March 27, 1906. Bentley explained to him how he could do as he, Bentley, had
done in the case of the seven Kickapoos, viz, get the Indians to come to Mexico and
Jones and himself could then get very valuable lands for very little money, and
set up a store in Mexico and make more money.
To revert to the deeds, it will be noted that all the deeds prepared were dated
March 7, 1906, and acknowledged on the same date, with the exception of one which
was acknowledged on March 9, 1906, the date of execution being blank as to the
month and year. They purport to have been executed at Eagle Pass, but there is
convincing testimony that in one case the paper was signed in the camp near Muz-
(luiz, and that tho parties siting it were never before the notary. Be this fact as
it may, Bentle>r was in Washington up to the day the act authorizing these transfers
was passed, which was March 3, 1906, which would leave four days for him to ^o to
Mexico, by rail to Monclova, and then overland to Muzquiz, hunt up the Indians,
explain to them their rights under the law and get them to go back to Eagle Pass,
Tex. This is manifestly an impossibility. He must, therefore, have had the deeds
prepared and the Indians waiting at Eagle Pass to execute them, if they were ever
executed, at least on the date named in the deeds. This transaction would show
further that he had the purchasers ready to take the land. They must have been
extremely well informed, or else it was a conspirac}r and all the details had been
worked out to completion in advance of the legislation. It is submitted that this
latter view seems the more reasonable.
Accompanying the supervisor's report were affidavits by Rachel Kirk, mission-
ary among the Shawnees, Elizabeth Test, field matron, and Henry C. Jones, and
a statement made by Joe Billie, showing that Bentley had associated and cohabited
with an Indian woman by the name of Annie Pecan, treating her as his wife, and
by whom ho had a child. It appears that he carried this woman with him to Mexico,
and when the authorities there, for good reason, placed him in '* incommunicado,"
he was enabled to communicate with the Kickapnoos through this woman, who was
permitted access to him on the ground that she was his wife. He has, undoubtedly,
deceived them, as he is well known to be married, his wife being one of the parties
participating with him in this swindle, by taking title to some of the allotments of
which tho Kickapoos were relieved. This crime originated during his incumbency
as BDCcial agent.
The crowning piece to all his actions is a suit which he has instituted against Super-
visor Dickson and Superintendent Thackery, charging conspiracy and slander, and
asking for $200,000 damages.
Again reverting to the deeds, an examination of them will show that all were
acknowledged before W. H. Bonnet, a notary public, of Maverick County, Tex.,
with the exception of one, acknowledged before Ixjwis A. Martin, United States
conHul. Tho acknowledgments taken in the case of the deeds from Okemah, Thithe-
c|uah, and Tahpahthea were found defective, and although this defect was not dis-
covered until after March 14, 1905, new deeds were prepared in each case, which
iuri)ort to have been executed and acknowledged on the same date that the first
eoclH were completed and before the same notary, the objection to the deeds being
that in the lirst acknowledgment the parties api>earing before the notary were not
known to hhu personally, but were identified by other Indians.
In the new deeds the notary blandly says tliat they are known to him to be the
identical persons — that is to say, on March 7, in one paper, they wore not known, and
on March 7, on what purports to be the same paper, he is in a position to say that they
arc personally known. When Bentley was placed in "incommunicado," Mr. Bonnet,
who is United States vice-consul at C-iudad Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, without being
§;
Aming fM THE MEXHTAX dCXJU»CW. rsiKJljrs. \9Vi
TmiBiiI air rSne: Cnrwfi ^taaw m rnnfiid Frfm Bots^ fewai iia aekziowki^zbms <jT:a-
tifiwirifY T<iia ^"trrfr 3M'v«9rT:&t!^&HK. a: B :i^m^s>s:i!ii ^i&oe Mr. M^tazi i^^riut *^:«rr:ii»
TTi ^mifliL Til uiSk ml M?JkiBsw^!S!i^D3zajasz 'X woi aoncasii: Im^f-reBi «^:nrxw^T!nir nixli* ^: ir^un*-
^ie iruTTS if liimi Ii:t!sii*Hi immj hastds^^ <\t mxW •iiHGKEC'' Is i» '^iil.*^ p<:«Hj'jii*. arm
3*^1 Hill I ?iv i^mw '^r'^oiffiiflaiiiH^ Ea&c ipt'^n. ^hm •*niiir«' taaaiMi^aAiiL..
3fe &)imiH: H linn i:a«*- <*^i*ffti**y -'^r p^RsiirtfUi of lik yit^jrn'iTit*J baai cl F^wf**- Pj*». T'*t. .
'hnrns^ vUii'-iL '!nnmii**nfcbu* 3u:iii*^ i» ijttat **: M>^XLi!azL KJx?ka;^:i«%. by iir«*<!T3i:TL if
:iit>9f!^ 'zuuBtrna^mf aarx** !ii:n b»H»TL b*mi»diTsiI ii5 iiht* ^•n'Kigtt* in izin*!tr»»sc. jnii ^:iiit* *Ti;-
•iimi'f* aiiw i5»»nii» -*i -^/W ihac 4II flirrO. «!atfc*s T^»»r» p{miiif»il by B^atnii*^- brcc ir rh Hy
isL '21^ biitiTafcial '^am'ft^ at* orasaiiiii-T sp»»9«iic»*if, -fiwjii:8#»» i» i'r.n2i**f!Tiii:n_
JLczsMTite^ isa iH tihieae <if**»fts^ »"vt»^ '&t zxLft ji'.kni^wfesawi b»*njr» Ifcr ItknizL. i» ji !?*?-
atiitac^ moi^ bv ^>&xl Mizufr. aaif iwritnL Tk5 b«fflvr»»' &:nii*ML '.a "Si^ T'h. iay tc ItkrtL.
^RfdJumir ?:&ac oje^ jpt^afe Tjt**- ynfffiwit joii. Mffxiit^aa. Skii?iEsp«yj liuiffmiiEf*^. joii r:ftikn ^r*-
31 sum. :UL ^^!ci:<mc ^^ ^ 'ItioLI nii;>>£pr»c jiZLT;±nii£:
<L«iiiflii£«::LhiJi*^ » iaat ci i!ir5L:ii» parrij >^f Mr. D^xtfaRn."* r^^^r:: uui in jf*cirf^rs .c 5a:p»*r-
jiiii Tpiit !U5n jaiax t:ai*ir ?3£&i3 T2iii»*r azlt '•in!Ti2xiifCiii«!«f. rhrHif ip "At^ir aZ ttltJii a":
any i^^mg^xaKaiiiL <ir lay *^ii*m:i* :f ":a*^ flirr»»n«-»9r.
3f1flBi>iJe ^l^OC iJX ;:a»*!»* ■•"roTt**** rrii^y b»f ivmmTrr.«x* UTeIl inLpniLSry. "^IllU" 1A»* laV ^.S^iCTlii
ail r»=aiii*tiy. isni th^oc B«*iid**y Jtaui xi» it»H*>«!ia*:r»* .!atzL aiin be r»»ai!i»*ii by iBut* fCTQiur lisoEi
' if die ^jri'iissmiexLC ' £1: i*>emtf ^i me Th:iL "iiey '^aa be. 'vt ptcper ic.*p§ at** 'Air/*g. jOi^ cftit
mocsiS' is *mi»!SERCa!2iIy Iii«:kgii jc^r T^ ii;i&£ii£*>» ^f » Mrf«Jti',mA ieiine j, on^nJi^ ^
*^nmes if TP^icjS. ^ » j*!t!TXHi!ti. jaui a«tnnmiSe£*y pp^^tlA* Mi>^i^ss£>Kt pemtlnef^ "iher^sDbr
Ir uiay ruic be ^ike iri»»!C Tnnrse '*-i isn^^nipc &'i mitarc 4nii pF»»!Tiik* Beadey tnif i»
<'^ixffiflftasKE«>fi Dbr ^naHptcu!y. izL j«»i!7iraur uhe nntmBg" :f ::;&e i>!T: if Ktjnjrrviai !*«^sp«:mfiL^Ie
air ti^ese Qsm^^s: buc ie » zoilry :f zxiaz. t!rmie Ji» iedneil □. ir^'Ie Li -.f -iie iruinii:i*a>
if Okfairnmsfc LiiHL ia*f if la. ia.~xs*s:acica:a "in^r* mubie ir. i» be£iei»il u&ik;: fliifii^iem: '.t-iLai
be 5bfiiii£ sbr ^:ixe iiiopr.n vf xa iniin'Tiaieaj: 3:r «!t: mjpdcury <!tinLaiirr..*ii in pr:t!Tirinir legftfTib^
QiJiL Tlie^ ir» Twrrainly znilrj .c !natfcirt3ir u»: iecaaii "ieae riilisLntf :f -^ir ^n.ni£t».
jmL iiar»»* ^jmi'.nr (tacrant ■ rax ihe •!:intfpira»'y •wri^t'txwrnlTy T^e •lir'.TEiitfCiaiTHS sirr ;rniii-
m^'^XH moSir^r "wnuiii *»eiiL *; nukki^ "^lE Jk pcinuk Ski!^ latie inrir:L~riiitir Beociey B«:iiiiec.
I:jw»a. &ta B-. Beaniey. J^'.oil l£iie. Aaut :iiaer r^'thv^** la liie tatie .c "iie linre ii*tr«fi*.
■»tte»* new it!kiiijwieitiziiieiiCi» tf^t** pn«!Tirf»*i- jQiiieo;#ly i» riilrT :c i.P2«^ry Tnii»rr ?«*<•-
'auL JS^ 'f nae jCiik£nis»»» ;c Okiuiu'viiuk l*OJL '->n "iie 2to'.»* vc ^11*^!^ oa^er* in AD^t^ar? ikar.
Eimnei: iH-jn^ny -.f a:p2«*rT niiier «^!Tni:a il-Sl ahiI -iiiiii:ii::c^ily S^HLnlny is riilrj >c
aiBTRry iiuter 4ei:!ai:a JilK.^ X-.iui ifcae aj rciry ix^er^nry xaiier *e<:!ni.a I.Wt. K-)
-fiiiiiin Bendey i» ruirj Tiuier 4**<'.!::i:a JJ»). Beadey ii* liwi riil'j :c i:r2«ry xniier
jRfTTiiiiiL IlMr aait ir ii* r^etieT'*ii la mni*raieni: •vinlti lie 5 r •*:sr*:r'ji.G. Taiit^r i^rdi-i*^ 44
if :^ «idE»»* if "l^iiiuimA. I'M)! J. Beociey i^ xnituKi: ttsil JLaaie P^:aa j* x rrr^irnuJ
if^nae. aait in. rie^ :c ii» !r»«!?;ri laii :c "iie iu!!a ia. ikij* Tatie is i» :eii»rT^c -.iik-': ie uiii
lOi iiSi^ parrae* sti'tnki be pr;ii«H!Ti:n#*ii -/. ihe SiH ^xcraic :f "me itv xzsi -n: painH ir
-*i3eniie be sgai^t 1: 4et!Tir» •:iii*ir "\nrryr.,i n. .vl -rit^ry vmr_.-ri!tj:: in^ iitr.
?^ j«rT:2iia .c fike Ta!H-!r:njfliI jJiii :c ".lie Aaien»!ajL !r;mful iz ' ibiiiiui P-.rdru: L**ia,>z- iz
«ein» 11 3ie. ^'.uLt r»<*?*r-r» jrine zi-T-«i:acfcni:iL :r a;: \»*sti^ 'Jiey ihiiriiii aiikk** la
J^!iiter "^e ftiir.TiimfCiai'.fts. I 3itT» lae ii:m:r v. rgiT.mrnemi -JiJ^. x :::zj x -Jlj* rtc»:r;
le TTMmmiTn^Hi. whul ihe r^p^r; :f -^Taa ia;^ '^*^°' "*^ seT'ia i»*eiiif. *: "uie D^CJir^uiu^rLr.
if X^iBCne. viii. ;iie r^Hinmrnemin^iavn. ia:iS jIlTir-*^ pt-^imibie be Skk^n. ':4: pr:«:'ir» 'Ji**
^TmrriKOBiL ^i Bendey ia»l iaj <:r.iia»fi*H3&«s -sa iH ^;iie f!ilar2»*« 'iifiiis laji juaiil 3e«!a-iife
if "aa garz wkuib, Mr Minia iaii Mr. B-^oaec aa.Tri» -u^dhi ia ine !mi.~.tr :f ine i^e»f»,
•*saak'^mii>»'if ^5i«ae r»*p#:ra ir»* iai'JiaifHt. w:zk liie «u5p»*jca:iL -.aiu".. if 2: aieer^ irj::Ii y.rir
j^^m^^aL tiSey be lait befl-.r* ihe 5ra;>* L>epar3iea:: air «ii!a i»!T::i:a la zr> mij :.: in £
^BY^mmjiuk prf»mj2Ks^ £- » fnr-Jier j?u§j»sc.*ii. bi-.w^-^-^-rr -ii;i-* "iua Tinrb' zi;r :»^ ju:~ih-
" ^*i^ £>f9ar2nen£ :f J-naaee .kijI ic* repP*a«iC4crT^ b;i.-T«i piuseii xp«:ii zhjt
1918 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDlANft.
merits of the chajrges made, and decided upon the procedure to be followed, tm it may
be they would prder to obtain oome inlormtftion or take aoeae action before Mr. Bonnet
and his friends are informed or alarmed.
The position of the Mexican Kickapoos in Mexico, who have recently 0one there,
will be the subject of another commumcation, but as the presence of some m them will
be necessary to carry out successfully the views entertained here in the matter of the
prosecution of Bentley and the litigation over the deeds he procured, and they can
only be obtained with difficulty unless they be indicted and brou^t back on criminal
charges, it is believed tliat instructions should be given prohibiting the payment of
money for the sale of inherited Indian lands, or any moneys derived from any source
whatever to any IndiaJis of this tribe now in Mexico. This done, Bentley and others
can not obtain possession of Uie fimds; and if the Indians return to Oklahoma, their
moneys can he lield as inlieritod land moneys are cared for and their welfare looked
after m a measure. These instructions should cover funds from every source from
which they may Ikj obtained.
Very respectfully, F. E. Lbupp, Cammiinaner.
Department of the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, December 14, 1906.
The Secretary of the Interior.
Sir: As indicated in office report relative to seven deeds .^cured by M. J. Bentley.
from certain KickapcK) Indians in Mexico, Supervisor €. H. Dickson was instructea
to investigate not only that transaction but all other matters pertaining to their welfare,
and especially to ascertain their status before the laws of Mexico, and whether they
were looked upon as desirable additions to the population of that country. His report
shows that a number of Mexican Kickapoos and Muskoeee Indians are looked upon
as citizens of Mexico, their ancestors having settled in that country many years ago.
It is claimed that the grant which they occupy was settled by them in the time of
Charles III of Spain, but there appear to he about 200 who have gone there during the
last two years, whom the Mexican Government has found necessary to separate irom
those who have lived there for a lone time, they occupying lands which have been
rented for them for a very small rent. The party responsible for the rent is not disclosed.
They are tn)uhlesome, oeinc immoral, degraded, dnmken, and generally worthless.
The govenior of the State wherein they reside informed them that some of them had
been there for two years and had accomplished nothing, but were a menace to society
and the church and the State, and that while Mexico welcomed colonists from every
nation and every country, it expected them to work and do as g(x)d citir^ns should.
He also informed them m the presence of Supervisor Dickson that under the law of
Mexico unsatisfactory emigrants could be deported, and indicated that this would.be
the course pursued as to the new arrivals unless they changed their habits.
Governor Cardenas also states that these Indians are supplied with some money, and
as long as it lasts can obtain some encouragement and recognition at the hands of unprin-
cipled characters around them. Intoxicating liquor can be bought for 15 and 20 cents
a quart, and the result is that these Indians are the most thoroughly drunken
wretches probably in all the Indian race. The Mexican authorities are aware of a
considerable effort being made by certain parties, who seem to l)e headed by Martin
.1. liontley, looking to tne removal of large numljers of Indians from Oklahoma and
Indian Territory to Mexico. They have no objection to the coming of those who are
g(K)(l citizens, hut they do not purpose to furnish a dumping ground for any more
undesirable characterH. It is clear tnat the object of promoting the removal of these
people is that the promr)tors may obtain title to their allotments in Oklahoma and
Indian Territory. When the little money given them is exhausted something will
have to be done for them. The Mexican Government will probably drive them into
this country, and then our Government will have another Indian pmolem on its hands.
Mr. Dickson says, in part, as follows:
"1. As to the condition of the KirkapcK) Indians in Mexico. It would be diffi-
cult for me to descTilie the actual condition of these Indians, as they appeared to me.
In all my experience I have never wen any Indians so low in the scale, m both mental
and moral conditions, ho dissipated through stronc; drink and all its attendant evils,
so entirety lacking in all the elements which make for mannood and civilization as
are these Mexican KickajKX) Indians. Degradation and misery are plainly manifest,
and there is apparent helplessness and hoptilessness amon^ them all. While a few of
the leading Indians made professions of being satisfied with their present condition,
I am satisfied from information that the large majority are dis(*ontented and unhappy.
Promises made to them have been unfulnlled, ana they begin to realize that the
Tumuu jiiisiirat jiuiiiv**: j.r jn^u vH ii ' •* '^eui. :/*•:. Tu* Ji.li:»»a iia-^uVLiu-;;
ir iiiia*: ;»: Urtni.' i • 'K+ii nt i" uiv^ v*!-- s-'i. > i.:i: : ti -t • ::f* -isruiu' Liii ii:»iri!a-
iiii lu.i:. i:»uit t -ij*m iu»: v u«: t.:>;#*^u'»i: . •.»* *--j.— •• V'ii*!i v* iir»r "'•iH:«*ic
■,ii» liiuuii 'juiu; .u«:-* *i*'iii-: '. :•* "-^i.. :.T-r-ii:.i >:. 'ir.' ii i .ivv ui^t f.ou* I^:'.ua
iiiiiii*^r "tiiu^iv: . Ji^ii.; V .: ::-ir': r"...!-.!: .1 »'»r. . ui.:r.: ; v 11*^*1 j»j* 'MiiLJa-.a
Viv .*'ii:';i.m;-. ' •■►!.i*" *•! 1,, At' iT"i '." >\. ••*■ V'..l .li— :* .TiLiUlit l***e"' lil.lli:~i*l
;■• A'r i»*ni.i*'- :• ■.ii-: '.'i-"-". :".. .;'- • i/:-r*: •"<:-:.? L...:ii.»rf" :»ir* ui m:! •. vura. ".'ui
ii. ii iiuni ui "v iJ*;*-'* I. u: ■ «hj ♦ *i v. :• •;; "vt?:"! * j »i. j >• i."i.u: .1 i'. Ji 'jt^n'-fr ':»»r
uuii"* 11 ^^'^i^'OJ. Ill >iiv A.' !»'.■'.. A'': u:.:i.i ^': . in* .ii* -;"".'ij^ - »ii:.'.".i.ti .r
.l**r»t luUUilit. i.lil ea*il -lii.' -li-: '-■.':: '.^.•■li^rir: i-uL .i-iTlilil. i 'I V '!*■• i ;i_;jul..iu. six*
r.iiL .lil.' I.' '.LUl— **^.»** ':4.- ' i. :.:i:". '.tr ^ll'.'...^ i.lt f •V.'.i.i'! • .li* '.'."UU.r'I rai;ui.ltt
!i -U»ir '."uii}} i.}^,f-.:it •Ur*: :;i.:i:i-';.i ■:. ..::. • ».■*■'.. .:i. ;..-; hf '». -ii* .-s^iiaK'n."-*
-iiL;:.kiif i.wi.i«*e'i. !?• ■ **: »* -•ii::. .i.i. i.»^.i..:irr* Tiir »-ii*r* v .1 'jr.ij. "v ii*!i* ui*';
1 ^* I. .i»*'i' j.i*:i;m.i:. Tii»:-*r J":i:.:i.:it uv ii.'v i*ii: lu ' -i ■»«*': j.r i.'.:rjr 'v.
• *rj"'- wiiuii.' v Mi:f.*n.ii •* ■■ I «i::i/. '.ir* ' :i.:i: i • ii; ^ •• ' i:.l*e* i-.iu -.u* ^'llitti**
'♦ A!i:i.'.;u::. 11 i iiii-^-iv e^ *r ■ :.:-*'• 1 <:. -.. .iir .ii* • :: - :#*:■ ;. ai/^.u.: d**
i*fii i.»" Uti* :i;ii: ty. :»^' in •: .1 _: Ar:.!'-!.! in I'l*- i;ii: :i 1 -.i*-*-?! :jt.i: i.r ft'^*ru
Ui 'li.b-. uiii -ii* 'vntr I jt>:-i .1.: .:.'•: iri ' • ^t.* '••':. 1-- .::- i-ji:: a." V'ii»a,j*o
:i' iiu*mrr*';*r iii'^i-* ^ lu • * .ii' ."m :;.:.? ■ it i. - :..• :;.:i: Tit^Tii*. l.iii.iir^. u* ^'--wi-
cj*!II .-Ui»ja'':i. uiii '^ ui :»+ -ii* . ;:u: '•'.*. i.i i-::i-': :.i* i.-- i ■■ iiiK.i-::' "_'• 'i.iu* vrj
■.ii» "VMiitnit :i ".ii* 'j-Li:-."' ■■ n-r i.r. : ■! u ■ •:■.'. > ii- ." lii.a.::* ♦■' .• t 'ii.r»»:t.
iiiiju*rt. uui ;i.ii;i*rt vi.i :i ;• i.''':i**-i/. ■ :..! v-: ^.,1 I. iiiTf* •»'"*:i.i;.iu un. ii^jUf
iin: vii*': .1: :• ';.:i:i-': .'it ":i::i: v :»-— i.** •*-. l.:-*'L . :u - :u*mu£ftt. T'lat.
■ •- lU*!** "L.i:'**-< --'I'l* i.'.'l '.' •'"• .:;i ■».■ v-'"! li- l:i:.:i.':^ i/.i: .:ir ■■..:/*'ii*
; •.: . -iK'i' .•■■•:■.-.:; I': .*.:.'•••:> i:- : ..: rr* .:.*•■- .-.*:. li.:u i.** v:,ii»::- .••.■•.•r.;iu-
'.»!H_ Til* ?"■*?« ill*!:, ^t ■ * .It-" u'> I .i.i*"' I •■: 411:. -■ ■:!'.• '*" . : :■-??■:.■ i- v. .r
iiiTv* ••:.■■♦■;»■ I •!:* ■ ii^-*T ."'.iLu.:.' ;.• 1. i* :*.:■ i.:-: -.: .'j-.:- v .ii •!■ i.ii.:i'.j »i. i.ii:
r-f "1 Ml*'!* ■;:•.:•*:••■-';»" '.' i.'.i:.-:. '. . • :i ■ -" ::i .ii*'/ ;-. u*"- :r.fl;»*--'-*.
iin:i*r :»'*rB»'i. ■•:• •■..:■:•». i.i 1 — i.:<: ■ ■:■'. 1 :• i.'- r > •: Tlii — ^ '.»^ -'.n- u* '.#**! r»
■?.iii*-L. ii"^ :.!»••• n.,**:: **: i/.t: ;::.:;i :»: ■ »:•; v -"■* •.■.;iiUr - .iir ;• '.t i.:i: '.r. •:!.;-;*» 1:
A:* lt*«ii.i*'' .1:1; ii-*. ::i. ;_.:'. .1-^: ;'<: v . -.i' ■■;i-i ■ •-'.■.li..: - ^\ • i»*'i.u*-; *a;t ii*
i-K III. Ill*" '.1 1-:? :• -'^T«-i ■: I •• :i' :•..• :;i.- •' ur.*: \ ■• ii*--* .":i:.:ui:* •::■ iiu.i:*:* i-l
iiiiitif i» *':."iif-rt VI ■ :•- :;;.» :i • i**^!-: •. :..• ;»• ■ii.:---:^ . .:i*;i;. .'iiii*'-: '. m* mi*
IT .•40 »*?•*.< J I* .ii*^*** ',*f ';»j* ii"^ 1:1 ' :: ■ i.'-i' 1 *"-'*.*:. rii.
i ^.f i. -ii^*r ■^'u. I »'. ■ -ii- <.!.' :.•:.": .> '.'"ZMt*''.. uii: -iit!i* •^.i.iii.uu- •.•air* ■jit
U'V^f •»■ llui' lUJ'-i".»l. .T.'' •"".! »• l.»*;t*''..i.' l:i.' -S..!! .*. HL ••**.!. '.I'-: U- i ^ll.'V^
■ '*'iiU' -ii .»*«* I'.iiui.Tit v'li ::i.: H— ': .: .it:.' .1 i* i i 'i^i v:.li* vrr* r»jci:r:j*<i itf
jIi*.*:.!'."!!! "T.L'.s'.iUt -iir. Mt »*t* V ii -.liii Mi: I* in f-- •..•-::■.- v *•-* -"Kii-li**! ut x u»*
' uxi-ec '^'oi".'^ -liU" ■.:•* .•'-:.' 'i.: i . .".■ >—. i--- •• v ^: ^i* vii u- » mi--^ .':i:.:i.: "u iiu**
via juu'-i lufia'.r u* ,:i'-i* •-■ i":-.i-': .► ?■■.. ". .ii' ■ i..-: k -lIi*-:. v*r» l iii*-':aji»
I :ii* ;«u"»- » '.ii* ''.I. * /.a. ."-i- . •<- .i ':• ■.:!: "1- *'* r^»' i**: v i-i ■,-- i.m -juiii**:
111* ii.r'.ii*?^ ;» iT-i »: •' ..it r-.i. - l .;.-i'* :i:i r^.:a i:i.i:tr -' ■ .: wi-. eu".; :il:'* mLj*
LuiL iQuul *'fi*'- :"l: h 'V ■/.!•!-•. v u* :.: *".i:i*ri' »• i.-*-; .ii*':: »: ■,:i*'.* -v-i ir'.»uiiUf
i»ir -liir v» I •.•.:tii ■..:: :::i. ■■.-■■ u* :'- '".ri.- r? • .i.-.ii;* v i-... . i: - m,- .'.:i;.ii.:it >nL-uaai.ii
i> liiiu' iiuiii* uiit -ii* ' V .i:.-: vi.:- ' .■..i .1- *;.:•..■ . :• >: v ij ■: -.-.ir r.:i::ii.:if luiL
i»e»fi .I'ijinat*' ftr'.i*-: •^'i-r— .:'.• '. .:«- . i- •■.. 1- ■■. i .* -i.-'-i. ---«»•- i, 1 1: l.:i:i*:* mi-
;t-) y 111*- .♦ «-:i*-'n. i.:'".ii f: j-* i • ■.: - '.:. ■— :- 1:: .•..:...■ : i - 'i'.: v ef :_:"»• ".i a
v.*fl» if.iiii^ .». ui* ■•e?* uiT' ■.. :.r;. n..' .• ;.- ■ .; - »-•.':; .-. -.i- i..,- v:,: l mrriP:
T • *r i.nt - •II*"' •'.■.:iii' Ml* b i;:- ■— ■ v i. -•• *• :.i ."•4:1. 1 ■: v u* -u'". i.Ti.'.a'*-: »,ii*r
fT'tiiii: vuf Hi'j.i,''!* i »• :?•.» : "i. .■.:.■■ '.I*- -li-*' ' '.I*— I' • *i.'.j ■::? V '..1: Mi* LlilUUlit
ti**!!!".!!** .ji*fUi**f, ■ *?* •;!■ V ■..•: . :.■ ::i.iii* u- l vii -i- .ii— *• lii:.u«ut v*c»
fi 'bt :i .ii^r ::i''.- :.":.:;-: i.:-. .' i; m-- ''..■- i-.-i '.;i. .iir -.i.'* v .r._i: luja;
iZ^iitl ' :•* "il ' -ii*?u uf ii- V -"•-: •.! -".I' :" '•. ii* ■: 1." i ii-''."".;:!*''./
'-i«r ; *ia' ',ii**r? vu? i :-*-■:: :.— ;. ■ .".•.•:■;*.■..• ;• '".: . ;..i^i p:i;i i.:i: ■-iiv: v*«*» v:
ii*rf 1 • uTUi*-: 1.11: r::i" I :-....ci.: - .:.». ii- • •-:.-'i, : ..-•.■ 1— .i-t v '•-* uHi.e: ":. lu: uit
■^ai-4> n ::itiu"^-i.:!ii ■.:i*':: "': :• v l.- -...•'-. >: ■..-•.. ::■= :.-'n. .j 'i r vut «*a
;liu '-lia Uiuru: 'ri'.ii 1: •*'"•«:.! .- ■. -i* - :" v i.- uv ■■:!-': :i .: :* j.::^r * I1T.41*
Tu* i**^"»r uT;*k»:t i;-» '.ir?i. 1 i."*.:i-': .;i • ..i »'.!• i.'.i: 41 ..::i*r» :iiirjxl' 'j-i** Uit
i 1 'FT. It "'Ilu .>!:.:::■•.:..: ir-.' :.-:.:.: i.'.ii t.-- r*- / 1: .,i7!-.i:n*
* it an: li* ;r.i;i ffr-: ; -.i.: * ;: v:.: .-.i- • -ii-'n. i.;.ui r:-|i:i -.ii* iiuiTc*r «: iw:7::nr
iijuift ir ill* liidii.'^ v-.i :-.;i ■ -.' • ■.■..-'-. -i.'. ■:..>^:i' -viii ■ t*: ■ i.-n.:u'-::i*':;-.j vv.i ui*
Viir*4fC rr**r«*«t »: mi* v*.i n* ii* -si.': ■.■- v ■:. : »* iii.-- :ii-ri:--: ■ -.Mi.* i :r-.'«":r *. .
Ill* "iin*". *iu;v*-» I -.ii* V -. 'I- r :i I >: • :■' •..--: -.i -: ■;■ i^- u: v-.'. :i.iii^
1920 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
' ' 6. As to the number of these Indians. I herewith inclose a census of these Indians
taken at their camp, while I was in Mexico, showing the number of Indians there to be
119 — 60 males and 59 females. This agrees with the census of these Indians, as taken
by Mr. Thackery also. When this census was taken, I had the assistance of the leading
Indians at their camp, and endeavored to have it absolutely correct. There were a
few of the young men, at the time this census was taken, that were away on hunting
expeditions. (See Inclosure No. 53.)
^^7. As to whether these Indians are acceptable additions to the population of Mex-
ico. Upon this point the Mexican officials are agreed, and that is that^hese Indians,
owing to their dissolute habits, are altogether undesirable as additions to the popula-
tion of Mexico. (See Inclosures 3 and 50.)
"There is one feature relating to the Mexican Kickapoos now in Mexico that should
have consideration. I refer to the fact that nearly all of the older Indians were bom
in Mexico, and claim to be residents of Mexico. As your office is doubtless aware,
there is a settlement of Kickapoo and Muscogee Indians (about 300 in each tribe)
called the Naciomento Colony, distant about 25 miles from Muzmiiz in a westerly
direction. It is claimed that this colony dates back to Charles III of Spain. In
Inclosure No. 52 herewith, will be found the substance of a statement made by Rev.
J. Andres, missionary resident at Muzquiz,^ Mexico, of the (-atholic Church, on the
evening of Au^st 7 last. I was very favorably impressed with the candor and direct-
ness of this missionary, and believe that he has a decided and sincere desire to help
these Indians, although, as he says, not one of their number is a member or com-
municant of his church. In all good humor he refers to them as heathens. He is
thoroughly familiar with the history of the Indians at Naciomento Colony, as well
as the Kickapoos from Oklahoma."
"These Mexican Kickapoos, at Muzquiz, Mexico, are ignorant, illiterate, easily
imposed upon, and in no sense of the word can they be called competent to trans-
act the most ordinary affairs of business. If there are any Indians anywhere that
need the fostering care and protection of our Government it certainly should be
extended to these.
"That Mr. Bentley has had, and has now, an undue influence over these Indians
in Mexico was plainly manifest to me fas 1 observed carefully his actions toward
them) in all his dealings with them, ana, on the other hand, there was an apparent
dread or fear of him on the part of these Indians. On several occasions the fear of
Bentley on the part of the Indians was plainly in evidence. In fact, some three or
four of them told me that they would like to have a talk with me, but they were
afraid of Bentley. They really did not dare to be seen at our quarters in Muzquiz.
The Mexican officials, both city and judicial, remarked that Mr. Bentley seemed to
have the mastery over these Indians, and held them completely in his power.
"Through this undue influence, and taking advantage of their mental weakness,
and with the assistance of others, Mr. Bentley has been able to imp>06e and perpe-
trate upon these Indians one of the most glaring and flagrant instances of misrepre-
sentation, deceipt, and fraud."
After considering the evident conspiracy to have large numbers of Indians in
Oklahoma, and especially Mexican Kickapoos, migrate to Mexico, the supervisor
recommends that immediate legislation be asked lor, and that steps be taken at
once to obtain authority from Congress whereby the allotments of all Indians mint-
ing to a foreign country for the purpose of residence can be canceled. He thinks
that this in the only way that the schemers can be checkmated.
In considering the seven deeds from the allottees covered by the act of March 3,
1905 (33 Stat. L., 1048), and which was the reas^m for his investigation, he recom-
mends that Congress be asked to rescind its action in the matter of these allottees,
whereby restrictions were removed from the sale and conveyance of their allot-
ments.
As to the first recommendation, it is doubtful whether the object could be attained
if such legislation were made general, for then there might be a scheme evolved
whereby the Indians would be induced to remove for the purpose of having their
allotments canceled.
Recommendation No. 2 if carried out would require a report, which might have
beneficial results, as the attention of Congress woula be directed to the periG of such
legislation, and perhajw in future such schemes would receive scant consideration.
If Congress should take any action, it is doubtful whether that would have any other
effect than to show its disapprobation of the whole matter. It might, however,
hamper the parties who have tried to obtain title to the lands, as patents have not
issued. The whole question would still have to be fought out in the courta.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KiCKAPOO INDIANS. 1921
The matter, however, is submitted for such instructions in regsurd to the legisla-
tion to be recommended as the Department deelns proper. It might be that leg-
islation conferring discretion upon the Secretary of tne Interior to cancel allotments
made to Indians who choose to mierate to a foreign country would meet the situation
as to tlie future. Certainly someming -should be done to thwart the work of such
parties as Bentley and his confederates, and discourage others from attempting similar
schemes.
Very respectfully, F. E. Lbupp, Commissioner.
Department op the Interior,
Office op Indian Affairs,
Washington, December 14, 1905.
The Secretary of the Interior.
Sir: Under date of April 15, 1905, this Office transmitted a report made by Frank
A. Thackery, superintendent in chaige of the Shawnee Indian School, Oldahoma,
relative to tne sale of certain Kickapoo allotments near the city of Shawnee. These
allotments were sold by Martin J. Bentley, formerly special agent in chaige of the
Big Jim band of Absentee Shawnees, to some other parties supposed to be his con-
fedferates. The title is based upon the provision of the act of Miux;h 3, 1905 (33 Stat.
L.. 1048), reading as follows:
"That the Secretary of the Interior be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed
to issue patents in fee to Okemah and his wife, Thithequah, Wahnahkethehah, Noten,
Tahpahthea, Shuckequah, and Neconopit, members of the Kickapoo tribe, hereto-
fore allotted in the Territory of Oklahoma, for lands so allotted to them in said Ter-
ritory, and all restrictions as to sale, encumbrance, or taxation of said land, are hereby
removed."
The superintendent's report was based upon a request made by the Hon.
Horace Speed, district attorney for Oklahoma, who^ in a communication ad-
dressed to Mr. Thackery, expressed himself very forciblv in regard to the trans-
action. It was recommended that an investigation be made and that all steps pjossi-
ble be taken to set aside the deeds and restore the Indians to their former possessions.
As such an investigation would require that a portion of the work, if not all of it,
should take place in a foreign country, viz, Mexico, it was suggested that the matter
be brought to the attention of the Department of State, for the purpose of securing
the consent and cooperation of the Mexican Government should tne investigation be
undertaken. The Department concurred in the recommendation and suggestion,
and under date of June 13, 1905, transmitted the correspondence which had taken
place between the Department of State and the Mexican Government concerning
the subject, and upon this information Supervisor of Schools Charles H. Dickson,
under date of June 14, 1905, was directed to proceed to the City of Mexico and confer
with the American ambassador for the purpose of taking the proper steps to investigate
the matters specified.
The instructions given Mr. Dickson contemplated a thorough investigation of all
the facts concerning the purported sale of the land by the allottees to Bentley et al.
As the matter had oeen oefore the district attorney for Oklahoma, he was asked to
indicate just the form and also the evidence that would be necessary in order to
enable him to institute proceedings in the Oklahoma court should it be found advis-
able so to act. He was asked to send such instructions of the supervisor, and Mr.
Dickson was directed to comply with the suggestions and instructions that Mr. Speed
should send. In addition to an investi^tion of the transfer mentioned, Mr. Dickson
was directed to obtain all the information possible concerning the Kickapoos now in
Mexico, their general condition, exact location, occupation, future prospects, rela-
tion to the Mexican Government, status before the laws of tliat nation, number, etc.,
and he was also to find out whether or not they were acceptable additions to the popu-
lation of Mexico, and the hope was expreseea that his mission would result in obtain-
ing all the facts concerning the transfers of the allotments specified and also give the
Office definite information concerning the welfare of these Indians.
Without reviewing the correspondence found necessary in order that the preliminary
steps might be properly taken, I have the honor to state that under date of October
11^ 1905, Mr. Dickson made his final report. The Mexican authorities afforded Mr.
Dickson every facility within their power to arrive at the facts. In accordance with
the instructions given by Mr. Speed, the testimony taken was, so far as possible,
obtained according to the laws of procedure in vogue in Mexico, which seems to be
somewhat similar to the ancient practice in chancery, viz, the questions were sub-
1922 AFFAIIK OF THE MEXICAN KICKAP«X> IXBIAKS.
mined in writing and the witseaes required to annrcr in the aune mmner . under a
eomnuamna or eras' from the locil court. A liit ctf the qoestioDS sibmitted to the
iiwiUia is uMdomtd with the papers, which, together with the answeis made thereto,
if nnmbered 19. The mode at pfooednre w» anmtiiiactory, in that there was no
chance to croaft^zamine the witneaaee. and ctften they failed to answer the interroga-
tauA, becaoae they either wer« nnafale to do so or were unwilling to gi^e the informa-
tion desired. In addition to this testimony, the Indians were interviewed at their
camp and the atatements they made there are also included ^indosure Xo. 12;: and
whde it is possible tluU this latter would afford no evidence in a court ci law, it can
readfly be seen that it is a bett»- statement of the &ctB than that obtained before
thecc^nt.
Tfarou^ some channel, not jMsable to ascertain^ the actitm of the Government
and the movements of Mr. Dickaon were reported promptly to Mr. Bentlev. and
the same train which carried the supervisor to his tinal destination also btou^t Mr.
Bcsttley. It is plain to see from the supervisor's report that this had much to do with
%he trrjuble he experienced in making the invcst^ation. and througli Bentley's influ-
ence it is apprehended that much was not disdosed whidi is of great importance to
the case.
In addition to the sworn testimony other evidence is submitted by the supervisor,
and although there are some conflicts, it is believed that the facts have been brought
out sufficientlv to indicate that a gigantic fmud has been perpetrated and the Indians
swindled in t&e most outrageous manner, but. as is often the case where Indians are
concerned, thev seem to ^efer being swindled to making any exertion to protect
themselves or o)>tain their ri^ts after they have been imposed upon.
Accompanyine this report are copies <rf the deeds purporting to have been exe-
cuted by the' Indians: Fust, the deed of Okemah and Thithequah. his wile, convey-
ii^ the east half of the southeast quarter of section 24. township 10 north, range'3
eaft. to W. W. Ives, for $8,000. This deed is dated March 7. 1905. 6»ied by Okemah
and Thithequah by mark, witnessed by'W. H. Bonnet and H. M. FennelL The
acknowledgment ns taken before Bonnet on the 7th day of March. 1905. amd reads
in part as vAkfws: "Fenonallv appeared Okemah. well known to me. and Thithe^
quah. identified by Noten anJ John Mine, as the identical parties.** etc. Attached
to the deed is an idffidavit made by John Mine, reading. " I speak Enriish mnd Mexi-
can Kickapoo languages, and I made the cont^its of the within deed Known to Oke-
mah and Thithequah before they executed the same.** s^ned by mark, witnessed
bv E. M. Ostrom and Hiram Boiid. and executed before Bonnet on the 7th day of
llarch. \9Gb. These afifidavits purport to have been executed in Maverick Countv,
Tex.
It ai^>ears that this deed was filed for record with the recorder of Fbttawmtomie
County. Okla.. on the 14th day of Mardi, 1905. and reccvded in book S4, pi^ 909.
It seems that Mr. Ives, the grantee named in the deed, attempted to sell the land,
and did make a contract for its sale, but the examiner of the title h<M that such deed
was not gwMl' ii><MEmuch as the acknowledgment failed to conform to the laws ctf Okla-
hooia. Thereupon another deed was procured from the same parlies to the same
grantee, executed on the same day, March 7. 19(^, before the same witnesses, and
acknowledged before the same notary on the 7th day of March, the dale of the former
acknowledgment, a week prior to the time the original deed w»s filed for reond, and
long before any question was raised as to its validity. This acknowledCTMOt is cor-
rect in its terms, reading: '^Fersonally appeared Oltemah and his wife^^Thithequah,
to me personally known to be the identical persons. ' * etc. This deed was filed wim the
recortier of Pottawatomie County on the 2i8th day of Marrh. 1905. and is recorded in
book S4 of deeds, page 379.
When questioned concerning this transaction. Okemah sw\>re to practicallv the
following statement: '"Nothine was told him of the value of the lana in Oklanoma
at the tune of the sale, nor when he signed the deeds did they exfdain how mudi
they were paying him for his land;*' "Bentley did not tell him anything renuding
the' value or {Mice; ** *'that he received from Beiitley $300 in gold andSdOO m Mexican
silver: *^ the payment for his allotment of land sold '' was to be by an exchange for land
in Mexico: '^ *'that he has not received the land, nor does he know where it is located;**
**that the 1200 in gold and $200 in silver he understood was received on account of
his allotment in Oklahoma.^*
In d»e examination made at the camp, his wifo being presents O ke umJi oaid *'that
he had made a deed at Eagle Pies for his allotment, but does not know for what con-
sideration." '*Xo one explained to him anything about the >^ue of the land or the
contents of the paper.'* *'He did not receive payment nor anv part ctf if for the
land, but "be was to receive land in Mexico in exchanise. but ^&as not secured any
|Ret." He did not faa^-e any documoitary evidence to show that he was to get land
in Mexico in lieu of his allotment.
APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIAKg. 1928
Deed No. 2 from Thithequah and Okomah, her husband, conveying the aoutheaat
quarter of section 24, township 10 north, range 3 east, to W. W. Ives, for $5,000, exe-
cuted ]&^urch 7, 1905, signed by Thithequah and O ke mah, by mark, witnessed by
W. H. Bonnet and H. M. Fennell. Acknowledgement was taken before Bonnet on
March 7, 1905, and reads, in part, as follows: "Personally appeared Thithequah,
identified by John Mine, and Okemah, to me known to be the identical persons who
executed the within and foregoing instrument," etc. Attached to this deed is a cer-
tificate acknowledged before W. H. Bonnet on the 7th day of March, 1905, by John
Mine, reading: ''I speak the English and Mexican Kickapoo languages, and 1 made
the contents of the within deed known to Thithequah before she executed the same,'*
witnessed by E. M. Ostrom and Hiram Bond. This deed was filed with the recorder
of Pottawatomie County on March 14, 1905, and is recorded in book 34 of deeds, page
308.
Ives seems to have sold or contracted to sell the land covered by this deed, but the
abstractor, in passing upon the title, objected to the deed as executed, whereupon
anoth^ deed was obtained, which purported to be executed on March 7, 1905, and
witnessed by the same parties and acknowledged before Bonnet on the 7th day of
March, 1905, the form thereof being unobjectionable; to which is attached the certifi-
cate of John Mine, reading as in the first case, acknowledged before Bonnet on the 7th
day of March, 1905, these dates all being the same as in the original deed, which was
one week prior to the date the first deed was filed for record in Oklahoma. The second
deed was filed with the recorder of Pottawatomie County on the 6th day of April, 1905,
and is recorded in book 34 of deeds, page 419.
When Thitheouah was examined in court, she swore that no one told her anything
of the value of tne land in Oklahoma, nor did thev do so when the documents were
signed in Eagle Pass; her husband told her that her land was exchanged for other
land in Mexico; her husband arranged the matter and nothing was explained to her;
she received nothing; her husband received from Bentley $150 in Mexican silver.
The consideration named in the deed is $5,000. The examination that took place in
the camp disclosed nothing from her, but as she was present when her husband, Oke-
mah, was interrogated, it is presumed that she agreed with his statement.
Deed 3, Wahnahkethehah and Wahpuckweche, his wife, conveying the north half
ci the southeast quarter of section 13, township 10 north, range 3 east, to Ida B. Bent-
ley, wife of Martin J. Bentley, for $10,000, was executed on the 9th day of ,
190—-, by the grantors hamed, signed by mark and witnessed by Roman Grallan and J.
A. Bonnet. The acknowledgment was taken at the consulate of the United States,
Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, before Lewis A. Martin, United States consul, on the
9th day of March, 1905, and reads in part as follows: "Personally came Wahnah-
kethehah and Wahpuckweche, his wife, identified to me by Roman Gallan and Tom
Smith, and thereby to me known to be the identical persons who executed the within
and foregoing instrument," etc. The tract conveyed by this deed is one of the most
valuable, and stands in the name of Bentley's wife, the original grantee, and as no
conveyance has been made, the validity of the deed and the acknowledgment has
not been questioned.
At the examination before the officers of Mexico, Wahnahkethah swore that he was
told ** nothing of the value of the land in Oklahoma, but they told him the value of
his land was $10,000, but that he was not to receive money but land in Mexico," and
tiiat Bentley gave him the information. 'He did not receive money, nor has he sold
his land;" all that he did was *' to propose his land in Oklahoma in exchan^ for land "
in Mexico, "but he had not to receive any money but land' ' in Mexico "m exchange
for his land in Oklahoma;" that he has not received any land and "does not know
the reason why he has not; that if they comply with what was offered — land in Mex-
ico—he is satisfied." He swears "he lias not signed any deed," nor has he been
informed or advised as to the paper signed; "that he signed a document for the ex-
change of his land," both he and his wife, and that this was done "in the camp, but
they have not sold it and have not yet received the land in exchange; that Bentley
presented them the document referred to and they signed it, puttine the hand on the
pen in symbol of signature, but without any other witnesses than the same Bentley,
who cave them 200 Mexican dollars solely because they signed." Examination of
this &dian in camp, his wife being present, resulted m some contradictory state-
ments. Asked about his allotment near Shawnee, Okla., he first denied signing any
paper authorizing the sale, or any paper at all, but he "turned the land over to Bentley
to apply for the sale;" but afteiwaras he remembered that he signed a paper at Ea^le
Pass, but did not remember anyone l>eing there except Mr. Bentlev. Bentley did
not explain the contents of the paper, nor was it interpreted to him by anyone. He
supposed this paper related to the trading of his allotment for land in Mexico. He
ha!d no copy of it and did not obtain one from Bentley. He did not receive any money
1922 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KTCKAPOO INDIANS.
mitted in writing and the witnesses required to answer in the same manner, under a
commission or order from the local court. A list of the questions submitted to the
Indians is inclosed with the papers, which^ together with the answers made thereto,
is numbered 19. The mode of procedure was unsatisfactory, in that there was no
chance to cross-examine the witnesses, and often they failed to answer the interroga-
tories, because they either wer0 unable to do so or were unwilling to give the infonna-
tion desired. In addition to this testimony, the Indians were interviewed at their
camp and the statements they made there are also included (inclosure No. 12); and
while it is possible that this latter would afford no evidence in a court of law, it can
readily be seen that it is a better statement of the facts than that obtained before
the court.
Through some channel, not possible to ascertain, the action of the Government
and the movements of Mr. Dickson were reported promptly to Mr. Bentley, and
the same train which carried the supervisor to his final destination also brought Mr.
Bentley. It is plain to see from the supervisor's report that this had much to do with
the tn)uble he experienced in making the investigation, and through Bentley's influ-
ence it is apprehended that much was not disclosed wnich is of great importance to
the case.
In addition to the sworn testimony other evidence is submitted by the supervisor,
and although there are some a)nflict8, it is believed that the facts have been brought
out sufficiently to indicate that a gigantic fraud has been perpetrated and the Indians
swindled in the most outrageous manner, but, as is often the case where Indians are
concerned, they seem to prefer being swindled to making any exertion to protect
themselves or oDtain their rights after they have been imposed upon.
Accompanying this report are copies of the deeds purporting to have been exe-
cuted by the Indians: First, the deed of Okemah and Thithequah, his wife, convey-
ing the east half of the southeast quarter of section 24, township 10 north, range 3
c»ast, to W. W. Ives, for $8,000. This deed is dated March 7, 1905, siped by Okemah
and Thithequah by mark, witnessed by'W. H. Bonnet and H. M. Fennell. The
acknowledgment was taken before Bonnet on the 7th day of March, 1906, and reads
in part as follows: "Personally appeared Okemah^ well known to me, and Thithe-
quah, identified by Noten and Jonn Mine, as the identical parties," etc. Attached
to the deed is an aihdavit made by John Mine, reading, "1 sp(»ak English and Mexi-
can Kickapoo languages, and I made the contents of the within deed Known to Oke-
mah and Thithequah before they executed the same," signtni by mark, witnessed
by E. M. Ostrom and Hiram Bond, and executed before Bonnet on the 7th day of
March, 1905. These affidavits purport to have been executed in Maverick County,
Tex.
It appears that this deed was filed for record with the recorder of Pottawatomie
County, Okla., on the 14th day of March, 1905, and recorded in book 34, page 800.
It seems that Mr. Ives, the grantee named in the dee<l, attempted to sell the land,
and did make a contract for its sale, but the examiner of the title held that such deed
was not good, inasmuch as the acknowledgment failed to conform to the laws of Okla-
homa. Thereupon another deed was procured from the same parties to the same
grantee, executed on the same day, March 7, 1905, before the same witnesses, and
acknowledged before the same notary on the 7th day of March, the date of the former
acknowledgment, a week prior to the time the original deed was filed for record, and
long before any question was raised as to its valiaity. This acknowledgm^it is cor-
rect in its tenns, reatiing: ** Personally appeared Okemah and his wife Thithequah,
to me personally known to be the identical persons," etc. This deed was filed wim the
recorder of Pottawatomie County on the 28th day of March, 1905, and is recorded in
book 34 of dwnls, page 379.
When questioned concerning this transaction, Okemah swore to practically the
following statement: "Nothing was told him of the value of the lana in Oklahoma
' . ,' payn^^^nt for his allotment of land sold "was to be by an exchange 1
in Mexico; " "tnat he has not reieived the land, nor does he know where it is located;"
"that the |200 in pold and $200 in silver he understood was received on account of
his allotment in Oklahoma."
In the examination made at the camp, his wife being present, 0 ke mah said "that
he had made a deed at Eagle Pass for his allotment, but does not know for what con-
sideration." "No one explained to him an^'thing about the value of the land or the
contents of the paper." "He did not receive payment nor any part of it" for the
land, but "he was to receive land in Mexico in exchange, but has not secured any
yet." He did not have any documentary evidence to snow that he was to get land
in Mexico in lieu of his allotment.
APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIAKg. 1928
Deed No. 2 from Thitheouah and Okemali, her husband, ccmveyiDS the aoutheaat
quarter of section 24, townsnip 10 north, range 3 east, to W. W. Ives, for $5,000, exe-
cuted ]&^urch 7, 1905, signed by Thithequah and O ke mah, by mark, witnessed by
W. H. Bonnet and H. M. Fennell. Acknowledgement was taken before Bonnet on
March 7, 1905, and reads, in part, as follows: ''Personally appeared Thithequah,
identified by John Mine, and Okemah, to me known to be the identical persons who
executed the within and foregoing instrument," etc. Attached to this deed is a c^-
tificftte acknowledged before W. H. Bonnet on the 7th day of March, 1905, by John
Mine, reading: ^'I speak the English and Mexican Kickapoo languages, and 1 made
the contents of the within deed laiown to Thithequah before she executed the same,"
witnessed by E. M. Ostrom and Hiram Bond. Tnis deed was filed with the recorder
of Pottawatomie County on March 14, 1905, and is recorded in book 34 of deeds, page
308.
Ives seems to have sold or contracted to sell the land covered by this deed, but the
abstractor, in passing upon the title, objected to the deed as executed, whereupon
another deed was obtained, which purported to be executed on March 7, 1905, and
witnessed by the same parties and acknowledged before Bonnet on the 7th day of
March, 1905, the form thereof being unobjectionable; to which is attached the certifi-
cate of John Mine, reading as in the first case, acknowledged before Bonnet on the 7th
day of March, 1905, these dates all being the same as in the original deed, which was
one week prior to the date the first deed was filed for record in Oklahoma. The second
deed was nled with the recorder of Pottawatomie County on the 6th day of April, 1905,
and is recorded in book 34 of deeds, page 419.
When Thitheouah was examined in court, she swore that no one told her anything
of the value of tne land in Oklahoma, nor did they do so when the documents were
signed in Eagle Pass; her husband told her that her land was exchanged for other
land in Mexico; her husband arranged the matter and nothing was explained to her;
she received nothing; her husband received from Bentley $150 in Mexican silver.
The consideration named in the deed is $5,000. The examination that took place in
the camp disclosed nothing from her, but as she was present when her husband, Oke-
mah, was interrogated, it is presumed that she agreed with his statement.
Deed 3, Wahnahkethehah and Wahpuckweche, his wife, conveying the north half
ci the southeast quarter of section 13, township 10 north, range 3 east, to Ida B. Bent-
ley, wife of Martin J. Bentley, for $10,000, was executed on the 9th day of ,
190—-, by the grantors hamed, signed by mark and witnessed by Roman Gallan and J.
A. Bonnet. The acknowledgment was taken at the OHisulate of the United States,
Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, before Lewis A. Martin, United States consul, on the
9th day of March, 1905, and reads in part as follows: "POTsonally came Wahnah-
kethehah and Wahpuckweche, his wife, identified to me by Roman Gallan and Tom
Smith, and thereby to me known to be the identical persons who executed the within
and foregoing instrument," etc. The tract conveyed by this deed is one of the most
valuable, and stands in the name of Bentley's wife, the original grantee, and as no
conveyance has been made, the validity of the deed and the acknowledgment has
not been questioned.
At the examination before the ofiicers of Mexico, Wahnahkethah swore that he was
told '^nothing of the value of the land in Oklahoma, but they told him the value of
his land was $10,000, but that he was not to receive money but land in Mexico,'* and
that Bentley gave him the information. "He did not receive money, nw has he sold
his land;" all that he did was "to propose his land in Oklahoma in exchan^ for land "
in Mexico, "but he had not to receive any money but land' ' in Mexico "m exchange
for his land in Oklahoma;" that he has not received any land and "does not know
the reason why he has not; that if they comply with what was offered — land in Mex-
ico—he is satisfied." He swears "he lias not signed any deed," nor has he been
informed or advised as to the paper signed; "that he signed a document for the ex-
change of his land," both he and his wife, and that this was done "in the camp, but
they have not sold it and have not yet received the land in exchange; that Bentley
presented them the document referred to and they signed it, putting the hand on the
pen in symbol of signature, but without any other witnesses than the same Bwitley,
who cave them 200 Mexican dollars solely because they signed." Examination of
this &dian in camp, his wife being present, resulted in some contradictory state-
ments. Asked about his allotment near Shawnee, Okla., he first denied signing any
paper authorizing the sale, or any paper at all, but he "turned the land over to Bentley
to apply for the sale;" but afteiwards he remembered that he signed a paper at Ea^le
Pass, but did not remember anyone being there except Mr. Bentley. BenUey did
not explain the contents of the paper, nor was it interpreted to him by anyone. He
supposed this paper related to the trading of his allotment for land in Mexico. He
had no copy of it and did not obtain one from Bentley. He did not receive any money
1924 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
lor his allotment or on account of the aale of it. As he understood the matter he was
to receive land in Mexico, hut he had not yet obtained the land he was to get from
anyone.
Deed 4, from Rishkenicquote and Nepahhah, his wife, sole heirs of Shuckequah,
conveying the northern hall of the north half of section 12, township 10 north, range
3 east, to Ida B. Bentley, for $2,000, was executed on the 7th day of March, 1905, bv
Mishkenicquote and Nepahhah. by mark, witnessed by W. H. Bonnet and E. M.
Ostrom. The deed was acknowledged before W. H. Bonnet, on March 7th, 1905, and
the acknowledgment reads, in part, as follows: ''Personally appeared Rishkenicquote
and Nepahhah, his wife (identified by John Mine and Noten, Mexican RickapooH
known to me), as the identical persons who executed the within and foregoing instru-
ment," etc. Attached to this deed is a certificate acknowledged before Bonnet on
the 7th day of March, by John Mine, reading, "I speak the English and Mexican
Rickapoo languages, and I made the contents of the within deed fuUy known to Rish-
kenicquote and Nepahhah before thev executed the same, " witnessed by E. M. Ostrom
and Hiram Bond. If the acknowleagment in this case is not fatal, it will require a
different construction than seems possible to give it.
Before the examiner Rishkenicquote swore ** that no one told him anything; that
Bentley told him what his lands were worth at the signing of a deed in Snawnee, and
another in Eagle Pass to give him other lands in proportion . At the time of signing the
document he did not know what his lands were worth." ♦ ♦ « "For that to
which he made a document in Eagle Pass he did not receive money, but they were to
five him lands in exchange here, nor did they tell him the value of tne latter.''^ ** That
e did not receive money in Ea^le Pass for the land; that he only touched the pen in
symbol of signing the dociunent m order that they could give him lands here;" and "he
supposes the Government had given permission for the sale of these lands."
In his examination at camp ho stated that he had disposed of the land ; " that he went
to Eagle Pass " and "gave the lands so he could live in Mexico ;* ' that ' ' he was to receive
$300; that he signed the papers in Eagle Pass and supposed he was to receive the money
from Blr. Thackery, superintendent of the Shawnee School; that Bentley sold the
land," and that he "tola Bentley he could do what he liked with it." He did not give
Bentley any paper or power of attorney to sell, but he did sign some papers for Bentley,
but did not know what they were. Being pressed to state what he was to receive for his
allotment, he stated that it was so he could be enabled to stay in Mexico. He ^'told
Mr. Bentley he could do what he liked with the land," and finally received a few
dollars from Bentley on account thereof. "There was no agreement as to what he
would receive." " It was a trade — the exchange of his land in Oklahoma for suitable
land in Mexico." He was waiting at the camp until they could find suitable land in
Mexico. He had received some money from Bentley, '^but he had traded his land
near Shawnee for land in Mexico," which he had not yet received. He did not know
the value of the land at Shawnee, but said *' it was located about 2 miles off toward the
north of Shawnee City." "He had not received any land" in Mexico "from any
person." He had no papers from Mr. Bentley relative to the exchange, but Bentley
^'promised to give him one soon." "No representations were made to him. "He
wanted to go to Mexico and asked Bentley to arran^ the sale. It was his daughter's' '
land. He was content and satisfied with his position in Mexico, because "he could go
hunting and do as he pleased."
His wife had returned to Oklahoma and was not examined in Mexico, but her affi-
davit was obtained. She swears " she went to Mexico of her own accord ; that no person
made any statement to her in regard to the value of the lands in the neighborhood of
Shawnee, Okla., at the time the purported sale of her daughter's allotment took place;
that no statement was made to her by Mr. Bentley as to the amount of money he would
have to pay her or her husband for the land ; that she does not remember that die
signed any deed for land in Oklahoma, but does remember that some time last spring
she was at Eagle Pass, Tex., and she did touch the pen as a symbol of signing her name
to some paper, but, as she understood this paper, it related to a lease; that me did not
understand she was signing a deed for the sale or transfer of land, but white men told her
to touch the pen and neld it for her to touch," and she did so; "that she did not know
the man, having never seen him before. No money was given her at that time or since
then for the paper she signed, nor, so far as she knows, was any money given to her hus-
band, Rishkenicquote; that she again affirmed that no statements were made to her in
explanation of any deed or transfer of land ; that she does not know that she has sold any
land, and so far as she is concerned, she understands that she still holds the land
allotted to her deceased daughter."
In connection with this deed, attention is respectfully invited to the provisions
of the act herein quoted. It will be noted that the parties to this deed are not men-
AJ7AI26 J 7h:i xzniAjr £::zA?i:«: ryiLi-Vi. ^.^o
ii'Hi-s. a -It' u--. I i..;»:»T'^T» u! _: i-i irr.-rj.;:r ik» "j-^n iiuii- - 'a^- ii: -1.1 -jit- -At*r**.c
-T^'ii-n. 11. "'"Tiiiii-: 1! ii.rui. rizir- 1 vj^r. -. I-'--*. :# r t'. .•<!il T'k--Tr* ■•:'.*«:
Ami— M ' 1 m;^: : - 7ij..:ii,i,i.-!i. • ■ nj^ric. x*.-z.'Tr?»*-*: :~ H 2« i---"" r. ".:- ' j. li" .c
Aiu-':i. 1 i^Ifi i.Tii V-'r i» ni ^^ -iirn-n": "^1.:.* _- zilt ui :• > j/y^ " ? -r^ r;i.". -^ i.^^trar*':
?uit:juirj.i-a. «:-'* ..i»^: :" .":■!-": jl-i- ir.i: y r-i "ii-Ti':i.i i_ 'dp r- v-'l riirv-i u*
•• niii^»" :■' .'■ '•-.1 It.."!'- T":.:- :-•: vl* il-^i :■ »• 7-'i*i v ^ -/..- ---r-.r. r 7 tm-
F-ii. iii.f »i".". ■"' ■: M- 14=.'_ :.i ■ >: iLi.- 1. 1 r« ;■ l'.i: ''"r;^: .-. "•«•{: '-^ c :-—:.•
mt— "-Ui**-: j.T '\-' •■ ' '1 ^i-u.-u*' " "lii- *-r :■;: ..1 -_:.- -it^- c it*--: ' _ -" :. mh.- ■.:-
u-:ni 'v.^-iipii-''. ■ VI** :-'.-''■.-- Tli'-r-':-! r. i ^-■v r---: vw ;i- 1 ■::••-: vi. --j. }•::•-
I'lr -: '■ ••- -T-'';'-'! i.'.ii :-•_■ -"-'i '". "li.i.- ■: ' '. :«;' ■ :■- -a.::- :;i"- u* :■- "ii'-r i«*--:
-." VT« u'lrrj Tji-::!'-: ''-ci r-- ""-. ■: .-..-'■ r iLu- 11 ' . .^ :' m- Li.v c ".^it :r_:.-r i.-oi.v.-
^UZniMUL 'iir ■.:■- i« -iTIi T. --IT"..-''. * > ■■-•l.* t l.-. ■ • !-•: • . r^* r ^-r-tn-rtv", lis. 7 -3i;:i*
t**-**: A'jcrui'tii'*'. ■^- "-r*"...'i' :i."- •" •" 'i.'. 'A '- *'v r: ■ »-■:• r-. !• c-'' i::i; v Tit-:*;**-^! * '
ji* ^aniH-piir-.— * -i jili.- :i ' 1 ?*''' Ti_- iit-' : — : tu* :_-: v-.-^ :^.- •-* ■ ri-r c ? ■.ir.i^
w- mo* "lui '1 .1- JT'JL i.i ■: lili^- :. li*"'' i :■:.-*-'' ri -*!. 1 •• »f !-*: c i-**^:;*
li i«*r fV' r"_ - "*r:.:ij r - ri-.TiiZM-a •x-:!;'* zn.- -ii- -.-- -r cii-«v i.--r-- -ly c -.^.^
"U'li* T~j.t- ^.lii - •-•: ^ii- :.■: i< >" ii:r v -j..- •■ r --•:-.* r -.:- :. I'l.::--.- -':-*ii.- *iir:i-:
i n Liic<* ? Ltr* vi.-r. -^rr- ..-. »-i -" -.liL.- jt.* 2»-'i-l -■■ ::.;r: ' r '- --- i. :'.-•* •: jiz^i .j.
Ai'TLi'" ..1 -■: :'^.i;r- "• r i-r» Mil" .:-■ :■: '1 r ir:.-:ij: l'i i;- hi r,-- -.;- zu: "J.»--' v i;_«:
i:-* * iiT i-t - - c ^.iii ' j^-z. • 1 -T iij^'.si- :. •• ::•■'• ^.m ^ c.u.'.i cui -.:;i; t :.-»: -i:.-
i iifn*--: Ml- :»-?i '.:■- r.i"- 1-" l'*". "-il -** 1 '-;i-''- l-:. -i.: .liT •i:- :.-•:-•'•' ».»: .■ vi**
.'cr ii*r ■ ■ *!i." It r : :ji -::•-".- :..r ;.-»• ^.-..: mh -.:- .:ui* -.1 i" '- ■-. -'i i : *.:.:iLr -i
u tmr c :-r ^::i:. 1.1.: .la- -.:■- ■"it v :_ - -:: - ^.j -. vu-_r -r, i-- ■ j--: .-- *::■-
*:LilJl.."li-l T'li-r. -1'- -"L.:*-'" '^r! »* '".:rl*-r''. " '--t I.I'l.J,' 'l.:. : •• ; - !■-•• -• '^-Ui C 7 .- '.I r
nrrii:--: ..1 mu." '-■:• f
ii r.Li-:»**T ; :u.- -;• «. ?•- ".'.'i '. r " vTL-ii. : . I' r.i. -i.:;!- 1 -oi^r • ' "!-*:• r t?-^ lii;
Til* uviTii'v—'i:!::'-'-'!" vi;- i.v -- -0 »■- J- •-.-.-=■ ■: ■/_•- 'm li" >- jt-i~'".i. '. ^♦.j' i-iii .*
r**" r »i: •'.— •;■ c. ..".- — •- i ■ '-r-"^ _r _l..- : - 'L _■» i—^. !i'-': jii- >'ui. jt..~'- --r-
■-.iirii - :;i. -: jlo.' •: " '. ?♦ j' v — . -— : - j. It »ir/ .-.: i.-.,: j£._-i.l: j. .-.: .' - ■ .:i ri. ■
•tv r- .la.- ii- T h* '■ '■ ■ ■■: i-i '.i.'.ii 1 ' ■- ■- - I. .- ■■ .*-■- .i.'.'i ■ ".ii ■.- i.-i ■".• '" •-■- -.."J
iiaiii-. "'Lr ra - " ■■.-:ii ■ .:-■: . - :u" ".' ■.:. "iir vi.r -i. : * i..:. i 1 -. :.' ■'.- Ma'
-•L' J*-'".;.-'' vir* " r. - ■-. -.1 "- -J. ■ T. I : • ■• - ■" ^.'.•: y : - 1 i- i.^ ij. - .■ ■..!■. . .1.
••:.':i:i.ni'- J r :..- . - ■ I'l .;■ - ..^m : i.^.-.i --.la -.id- :• lui- -_.■:••-: •: i.: •.:. •:■- ■
viii. -■* -r ?i ■::-'i vl* " - ' -: ;::i-^-.-.ii .' •* ■ .: -" ;*' ■:— — ..1 1l-t. rl- iiu-'
u I - ■■: 1::: ^.".'L :""•■■ '•- ■. -i;i'. ".' ■■ ' -' - -1 "ii "-i-". .• '■_ I.: c- .i;i ' .:■- : ■:
ii ' *"".:ia..; 1.'. ■".:.. ::i 1. :. 1- •- . • -: i- vl? - i i^.:-' w^ ■ .*.i«i :■ r iz.' ■".i-r *.:a*
2»Tir^i-'- :»-r-rjLit: -: -..n
Z^'. v-_- '-v »•- ui ".:- J ' 1 : -•• :• " -- "^r 1- i. . - ■ . .i.vi 1:1 " v :■-'! •!:"
1 rtr:i<-i .:- :#-■: i .L.4" - ? *..- .. * -■■: - lu • : • -'• •'■ -" : ^^^^ -'.i-^— -c-.
T »i..: -■: \'.\ir.z" : ■* .1.1 . -i- •-•■■ -: . •_'• ■ ■• : ■•— . . i. j.-- 1 u- 'jlm .< • - -
Tir fill- ii •- :« ■ i :■ V V ■ .1 - :.• • - v ..- .•
If liu: :.i*T:i — : ■:.-.. ■ i^--; ji -.■ ^i :• '.-.l-: :■ ■" - .n-i i.i ;:i >-'*♦ :-a
I ! ■•:" liii: ' :;T'-: :- a.:-. -■• ' ^•-:' ■ i.:-: " ■■: :..:: ' : u* :- :■ -l~v: t.j.
r .1:1/ 1- Ti'-i ;;-■:..- .V-: v- •: -.■■:. -n.^ ■ 1 ~i :::■- ■• •- : .:: i.i-:
"•••T: .••'■ :»* i:i,:i.-: - ■•^•- :- l . :. - ■ ■ :!.:■: r. .i -. ■ }■_■ -.l.* '•-■-.-'. -•
inn.'-'' i.".i: 111— I''' ;.' V V-.. .t.:.- i •- t .- • : -i.- - .ii v: - ,.. • j-: ■ -
!.•■■ -r :ij 1^::—: : .:: v :.. ■ : - v - •■ v ■- : rl- ^'- • •- -: i ■ .«■■..: Ll- : ■
iiiii ii-'- -r '-'.i. • --; .- - -^ ' •:. ■: : • ■ i^" • ■:. ■' .^ :■■=:■ v i.-
t I! ■ • :.::i u:-: .-:-■•.;. ■ ' - ■••..•■'. _■ ■ . \. l'. - . -': -
itfT'—v.ii-'i" .: 1- ;■ ""._ . V- -■'. .*_.-- . I'-'. - V .. ; - •. •- _■ - l..:i
111* ii-iii u* •• • •: 1.- - :■ • ^ ■ : ■ i..i. < .::: v u- - . :
I'—: ' t" •:: . ■ ■: .■•. .. i^ :.--.- i.i.: " .• v : - j: . r-" ...: < -■.-
fcMiTii'Tiijr . :;i.- -'• • . : : ■ \- • •-. . ... *i.:ii- , -;.-■ ','£:. -■'--'■ :■ •• *". •.».
▼Is? u"i:i! 'V - ::!'-: -•.■ ■- /. :.:^ : — • : ' .■*-'. i.:-: :■;_.- ■• •-^-»" :--.-i w
■r .1-- ii--': ■ :- -■•• ■-■ . :- .;• .^. * x.:. -. :- ■-•- .:■ . - i i.i- v -.j."'. -■• ■•■*
2i:n:i«*' r .:■- " ' ..i . -.. ' . .- . "i : -l :■ 1— -. ■' -'v ■-• m.*.' v 1 --:
ii* r-*.!- f: 1' .i!-:_- I--'-. .-■ -jLii.:- .i-v. :.:•: -'-»::i-i': -^i" :.;• i._!.'-z-t^: vis
1926
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
worth $2,000, and when he suned the documents they did not tell him anything."
Bentley did not tell him anjrthin^ regarding the amount of money, and he was told
that "the document he was signing was in exchange ior another land in Mexico.
That when he touched the pen, he received 100 American dollars of Mr. Bentlev,
and he believes they were given him on account of the exchange of land he would
receive'* in Mexico. He hi^ not yet received the land. "Bentley told him that he
was goinff to obtain permission to sell his land for which he siffned the document."
In campNoten said tnat he had 80 acres of land near McLoud, Olcla. ; that an arrange-
ment had been made to sell the land, and he was to get "land in Mexico in exchange,
same as other Indians. He said he had siffned a papcT alM)iit March 13 in Eagle
Pass, relating, as he supposed, to the sale of the land, and at tliat time "he received
200 Mexican dollars; he received the money at Bonnet's bank at Eagle Pass, on a
check " given him by Bentley. ' ' The bank took the check and gave him the money. ' '
He did not know the value of the land, and Bentley did not tell him. Asked if he
knew how much the paper or deed said the land was worth, he replied ''that Bentley
did not tell him anything contained in the paper." Asked as to the arrangement
he had with Mr. Bentley, he answered that ''Mr. Bentlev was to sell his land and
give him land in Mexico, as he did not want to live in Oklahoma," but wanted to gn
to Mexico, where he could hunt all he liked. He wants Bentley to do as he promised
and help him get his land.
All these Indians unite in saying that they did not know of the legislation which
authorized them to sell.
These Indians are represented to be of the most ignorant and degraded class of
Mexican Kickapoos, who are said to be generally ignorant and nonprogressive. Usually
they are termed "blanket" Indians. The certificates attachea to the deeds show
that they were interpreted to the several Indians by one John Mine, of whom the
supervisor says:
Johnny Mine, as he is called, is an ignorant, drunken, worthless Indian. He
tried almost every day, when he was sober enough to walk and talk, in his broken
and unintelligible English, to carry on a conversation with me; but I could not under-
stand more than half a dozen words or so that he uttered, and I am p>ositive that he
could not interpret a document like a deed to any KickajKK) Indian, and yet this
worthless, unreliable Indian has been the interpreter employed by Bentley in exe-
cuting deeds involving property amounting to over $100,000."
For convenience there follows a statement showine the amounts the Indians claim
to have received, the consideration named in the deed, and the amount for which
the several tracts have been sold by the purcliaser, or their valuation:
Okemah
ThithequA
Ncconopit
Wahnankcthehah .
Noten
Tahpahthca
Kishkcnicquoto...
Amount
claimed re-
ceived by
Indians.
$400
also
200
O200
100
300
Considera-
tion named
Valuation.
Indeed.
>8.000
5.000
} $d0,500
2.0G0
5,000
10.000
44.000
3,000
3,600
l.HOO
6,000
2.000
6.000
a Mexican.
The Shawnee Townsite Company have purchased the allotments of Okemah and
Thithequah, of which it is claimed $22,500 was paid in cash and notes given for the
balance. They are offering these lands for town lots, and there is inclosed (No. 43)
an abstract of title that they are using in selline lots. The allotment of Wahnahkethe-
hah, it is alleged, has l)een bargained to a ^^^. Whitacre for $44,000. Noten's land
was sold for $3,500. It is not aisclosed whether the consideration in the last two
instances has l>een paid or not. This leaves three ullotnients still in the hands of
the original grantocH without any outstan<ling e^piity other than that of the Indians.
Accompanying the report are a numl)er of doiiinientrt tending to Hubstantiate the
statements made by the Indians, from all of which it ap^xjars that but one of them
admits tliat he executed a deed, and from which it is tair to presume that some of
them at least never signed all the deeds that were recorded, purporting to have been
executed by them. In the cases of the deeds to Ives by Okemah. Thithequah, and
Tahpahthea the originals were found defective, and new deeds were prepared and
executed according to the instruments a week prior to the time any objection was
AFPAmS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1927
raised to the original deed, and these deeds were signed by Indians living in Mexico
and executed before an officer in Eagle Pass, Tex.
It eeems to me that from the testimony adduced, none of the instruments of record,
purporting to convey the seven allotments in question, can be held to be valid deeds,
for, from the ignorance and incompetency of the Indians, it is apparent they are
not competent parties to execute such mstruments. In view of this statement
of the case, without considering Bentley's character and the other matters reported
on by the supervisor, it can not be too strongly urged that immediate steps be taken
to set aside all conveyances, or, if this can not be done, to subject the unpaid con-
sideration to the lien of the Indians in order that they may be in a measure protected
and this outrageous wrong rectified as far as possible under the circumstances.
The Government at the outset will probably be met with an objection to any suit
which it might institute, on the ground that it is not a proper party, because the
Indians are citizens of the United States, and by the act of March 3, 1905, supra,
all restrictions as to the sale, encumbrance, or taxation of the lands herein descrioed
tape removed; but it would seem that there are three grounds upon which the Gov-
ernment might base a proper claim to interpose in these cases: First, the duty of
the Government to exercise supervision over the rights of such Indians can hardly
be said to have terminated under all the circumstances — a situation that has always
been likened by the courts to that of a guardian and ward; second, the legal title,
or at least the title of record, is still in the United States as trustee, because the pat-
ents provided in the acts have not been issued; third, if this be found untenaole,
there can be but little doubt that a representative of the Grovemment may take the
necessary proceedings to have a proper conunittee or conservator appointed for these
Ittdians, on the ^und that they are incompetent and wholly unable to care for
themselves or their affairs, and thus a proper party would be established.
II successful in setting into court, no doubt the defense of innocent purchaser
without notice will be interposed by the several purchswers and their successors; but
the facts disclosed in the recorded deeds would seem to greatly weaken, if not totally
destroy, such a plea. Besides, it is understood that a warning was given through the
press in ample time to give notice to the purchaser. In the case of the Townsite
ComjMiny part payment was made and notes given for the balance, conditioned on the
securii^ of patents as provided in the act. Two members of the company, as a real
estate &m, carried on the negotiations for the purchase. They were simply promot-
ers, and it is claimed had knowledge of the frauds. Ives, who claims to have purchased
irom the Indians, first told certain members of the company that he had actually jmid
the Indian owners, but, on being pressed, said he paid $13,000 to M. J. Bentley, as
attorney for grantors.
Believinff that the Government can and should take action to set aside these con-
veyances, I have the honor to recommend that a copy of this report and the accompa-
nying papers be transmitted to the Department of Justice, witn the recommendation
that immediate action be taken looking to a judicial declaration that the deeds are
null and void.
Very respectfully, F. E. Leupp, Commissioner.
Department op thiT Interior,
Unpted States Indian Service,
Washington, October 19, 1906.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington.
Sir: I have to state, for the Information of your office, that within a few days after
my return to Shawnee, Okla., from Mexico, notice was served upon Supt. Frank A.
Thackery and myself of a suit instituted by Mr. M. J. Bentley against Mr. Thackery
and myself, upon the grounds of conspiracy, slander, etc.
As your office is aware, I was then, and had been, engaged in investigating for sev-
eral weeks in Mexico and Shawnee the transactions of said Bentley relating to the
manner in which he secured deeds of sale to seven Indian allotments of the Mexican
Kickapoo Indians. While there is absolutely no ground whatever upon which a suit
can be successfully maintained. Superintendent Thackery and self were compelled
to engage counsel to defend us in this matter. We employed Judge Woods, of Shaw-
nee, who advises us that there is absolutely no case against us.
Very respectfully,
Chas. H. Dickson, Supervisor, etc.
1928 APPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Hearing before the Oommittee on Indian Aflkirs, March 22 to April 4, 1906.
committeb on indian affairs,
United States Senate,
Washington, D. C, March 22, 1906.
Present: Messrs. Clapp (chairman), McCumber, Long, Sutherland, Dubois, Clark
of Montana, Teller.
Statement of Mr. Martin J. Bentley.
The Chairman. Where do you reside?
Mr. Bentley. In Shawnee, Okla.
The Chairman. What is your occupation?
Mr. Bentley. I am an attorney.
The Chairman. You appear here for whom?
Mr. Bentley. I represent before this Committee the Kickapoo Indians living in
Mexico.
The Chairman. You may proceed to make your statement.
Mr. Bentley. I am accompanied here by Johnny Mine, a Kickapoo Indian.
Senator Clark of Montana. His name is not in the bill, is it?
Mr. Bentley. No* he is a brother of one of the men named in the act .
Senator Teller. Before Mr. Bentlev begins his statement I should like him to
state what his connection has been with these Indians, and when it commenced.
Mr. Bentley. I was appointed agent for the Kickapoo Indians in 1896, and had
charge of them and the Big Jim band of Shawnee Indians located at Shawnee, Okla.,
until 1901. I was appointed agent on the petition of these Indians, and on their
request was paid from their funds. I have known them — been intimately acquainted
with them — for more than ten years. I quit the service of the Government with their
absolute confidence, and over their protest, and I have their confidence to the fullest
extent now, as this one of them, who is now with me, will state, if interrogated.
Sentaor Teller. State how you came to leave the Department.
Mr. Bentley. My office was abolished in pursuance, it appears, of a policy on the
part of the Government to put the Indians under bonded school superintendents.
There were no chareos a^inst me when I left the service. It was the set policy, as
the Commissioner of Indian Affairs stated, on the part of the Government.
Now, referring to the matter of those Indians going to Mexico — O ke mah, the first
allottee name<l in this proposed amendment, was the first Indian U) go with his family
to Mexico. I set out fully to the Indian Office the reasons whv he wanted to go to
Mexico. Part of his family lived over there. I was advised by the Indian Office that
while they knew of no law permitting them to go, they saw no objection to their going.
Senator Dubois. O ke mah, you say, had relatives in Mexico. When did they go?
Mr. Bentley. I will have to go into the history of the matter a little bit to properly
explain, and to place the matter intelligently before the committee.
These Kickapoo Indians have practically lived under Mexican law since 1824.
They were given grants of land in Mexico, in what is now Texas, by King Charles of
Spain. These grants of land were ratified and confirmed by the provisional govern-
ment of the Repul)lic of Texas, and the Indians lived there until about 1850. Then
Sam Houston induced them to go up to the Indian Territory because, he told them,
there was going to be a war and they had better go. They settled near Shawnee,
Okla. , and remained there until about 1862.
Senator Long. How many went up there?
Mr. Bentley. Alwut a thousand, I guess, as the old men told me. But the agitation
growing out of the civil war was Ux) much for them. First, the North appealed to
them, and then the South; and they did not know what it was about. They left and
went to their old home in Texas. When they arrived in Tom Green County, Tex.,
they went into permanent quarters. Having many fine horses, the Confederate
cavalrv attacked them for their horses; but they whipped the Confederates. At that
time the Mexicans were at war with the Comanches, and they welcomed the Kicka-
p<K)s. The Kicka|K)o8 were friendly Indians. President Juarez caused a treaty to be
made with them by which they were riven a grant of land in Mexico.
Ten years after this grant of land \fajor Mackenzie came into the interior of Mexico,
and captured all he could set of these Kickapoo Indians, and returned them to the
United States as prisoners ot war. This man here (Johnny Mine) was one of them. At
that time many of them e8cai)ed capture and remained in Mexico on the reservation
set asi<le for them by the Mexican Uovernment. Those captured l)y Mackenzie were
placed in what is known as the Kickapoo Reservation under an executive order, and
there they remained until ten years ago. Wlien they found that as citizens of the
APFAIBS OF THE MBXIGAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1929
United States they could go where they pleased, they wanted to go back to Mexico.
They wanted to be reunited with their ownpeople.
Wnen thev wanted to go to Mexico the President of Mexico did not object, but he
would not allow them to live on the same reservation with the Mexican Kickai)oo8.
He said that if they wanted to stay there they had better buy land. Seven of mese
Oklahoma Indians put their land into a pool, to be sold, and to acquire land in Mexico.
Some of the Oklahoma Kickapoos were not denied a right in the Mexican reserva-
tion, and they are recognized by the Mexican Government. So, O ke mah, who has
a right there, and some of the aged and childish Indians, wanted to acquire land for
all tne Kickapoos in Mexico.
Senator Long. How many Oklahoma Kickapoos were there?
Mr. Bbntlby. Actually nearly 300.
Senator Long. Three hundrea went down there?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator Long. How many are left in Oklahoma?
Mr. Bbntlby. I think about 28, and some of those are renegade Indians that we
would not permit to live with the others in Mexico.
Senator Long. Did these Kickapoos have allotments in Oklahoma?
Mi. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator Tbllbr. Those that still remain have allotments?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator Long. All of those 28?
Mr. Bbntlby. Practically all.
Senator Long. How many acres in the allotment?
Mi. Bbntlby. Eighty acres.
Senator Long. And none have been sold except under approval of the Department?
Mr. Bbntlby. Under the approval of the Department most of the inherited lands
were sold . I think as many as 75 of those Kickapoos Indians have died .
Senator Long. Under the general law those lands were sold?
Mi. Bbntlby. Yes; in fact it was the proceeds of the sale of those inherited lands
that enabled the Indians to move back to Mexico.
Senator Long. That is, that money was the money of the heirs of those deceased
allottees, and was used for the removal of all the tribe?
Mr. Bbntlby. For everybody; they are people who act together.
Senator Long. I understand.
Mr. Bbntlby. If one sold a piece of land for |2,000, they put his money into a fund;
and if another had no money to go with, they used for him the money from that fund.
Senator Clark of Montana. Are their interests held in common?
Mr. Bbntlby. Largely; they refused to accept allotments.
Senator Long. Allotments were finally made, however?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes; they were arbitrarily allotted. President Cleveland learned
that they had confidence in me and appointed me to move them onto their allotments
in the Canadian Valley.
Senator Long. How far are their allotments from Shawnee, Okla.?
Mr. Bbntlby. The east line of their reservation is the west line of the citv of Shaw-
nee, Okla., and their lands extend along the North Canadian Valley for k distance of
about 18 miles west frbm Shawnee. Our difficulty at this time is this: The Depart-
ment has put a cloud upon the title to the land that we wish to dispose of in Oklahoma
in order to acauire land in Mexico.
Senator McOumber. Let me ask; there are seven of those Indians?
Mi. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator McCumber. They sold their lands?
Mi. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator McCumbbr. They put their money into a pool?
Mi. Bbntlby. Yes, Senator; that is what we are trying to do.
Senator McCumbbr. They got some money?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes; they got some money.
Senator McCumbbr. How much did they sell their lands for?
Mr. Bbntlby. The first two tracts of land that were sold brought (less commissions)
about $32,000.
Senator Long. How many acres were there?
Mr. Bbntlby. About 154.
Senator Long. That land is right near Shawnee?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes, sir.
Senator Long. And was valuable because of that fact?
Ml. Bbntlby. Because of being near a city.
27813— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol a-
1980 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator McCumber. How much was received altogether?
Mr. Bentlet. Fifteen thousand five hundred dollars cash, from the firbt sale.
Senator McOumbeb. From those two tracts?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; and the balance of the money is deposited in the Shawnee
National Bank in escrow, pending the issuance of the patents.
Senator Dubois. What does the Department say those lands sold for?
Mr. Bbntlby. lliirty-*mne thousand dollars, but the lands did not bring that.
Senator Long. They brought $32,000?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; but to-day the lands can be bought for |20,000.
Senator McCumber. Let me take up these statements in the letter of the Commis-
fdoner of Indian Affairs, one at a time.
The letter of the Commissioner to the Secretary of the Interior on this subject, dated
February 6. 1906, says:
"The Inaians were induced through fraud and deceit to sign deeds^ not understand-
ing they were attempting to convey their lands. Okemah and Thitheaua received
|wO, 1150 of which was in Mexican monev, for their signature, while the alleged deeds
covered lands worth not less than $39,500."
Now, if that means anything, it means simply that they got $500 for lands that were
worth $39,000. What have you to say to that?
Mr. Bentlet. If the Senator will allow me to explain. These lands were to be sold
first. Whatever these lands might bring was to oe used for the purchase of land in
Mexico. They were paid some money at the time of the execution of the deed, and
have since been paid considerable money, probably more than $2,000 in cash.
Senator McCumber. The purchaser of the land simply fixed a price and they were
to get lands in Mexico for it. In other words, they purchased not for cash but for other
lands in Mexico?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes, sir; that was the intention.
Senator McCumber. Who fixed the value of the lands in Mexico?
Mr. Bentlet. These lands were to be selected by the council of the Indians, and
must be satisfactory to them. I do not speak the Mexican language, and the Indians
interpreted for me in land negotiations, and there was no deception about it. There
is nothing about this that I do not want this committee to know. I want them to have
the fullest information about it. The Department insists that the Indians were not
paid a sufficient consideration. They will not issue the patents.
The Chairman. You stated a while ago that there were several thousand dollars
deposited for the land of these two Indians in the Shawnee national banks?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; there are $16,500.
Senator McCumber. What was tne agreed selling price of the land of those two
Indians?
Mr. Bentlet. The trade was made through some real-estate men, and of course they
. wanted the public to understand that they had paid a big price for the land. The
consideration specified, that was to be received by these Inaians, was $32,000.
Senator McCumber. For those two pieces of land?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes. I want to say that the United States district judge, a few
months before that time, had appointed commissioners to view and appraise the most
valuable part of one of these tracts, about 6 acres, and they appraised it at $50 an acre,
leaving about 154 acres in.the tract. The best men in that country made this appraise-
ment of $50 an acre.
Senator McCumber. Do you consider the land worth $32,000?
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir; it can be bought to-day for $20,000.
Senator McCumber. The Department says it is worth $39,000.
Mr. Bentlet. That is an error.
Senator McCumber. WTiat was the value of the land that they received in place
of that?
Mr. Bentlet. They were to receive as much land in Mexico as the proceeds of
their land in this country would acquire, less reasonable expenses and commissions.
I work for them all the time.
Senator McCumber. But the real-estate men did not go into the open market to
buy these Mexican lands. They simply sold their own lands.
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir; the real-eatato company who bought the Oklahoma lands
of the Indians had no knowledge of Mexico.
Senator Long. \Miat is the mtention — to take this $15,000 and the remainder up
to $32,000 and buv lands in Mexico?
Mr. Bentlet. We have already paid
Senator Teller. You are leaving out the important part of it. You went down
and bought some lands?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 1931
Senator Teller. Did these real-estate agents buy it, or did you?
Mr. Bbntlet. They had nothing to do with it. They had no knowledge of it. I
bought it.
Senator Teller. Tell us what you did.
Mr. Bentlet. I first acquired an option on a valuable ranch in Mexico that would
cost $250,000—238,000 acres, with 10^000 cattle. 175 mQes away from the railroad in
a great basin. I took deeds for the Oklahoma lands as expeditiously as possible. I
retiuned to Oklahoma to sell the lands and acduire money to purchase this tract,
expecting to return to Mexico and close this trade. When the Department raised a
question as to the title, I found that I could not dispose of the lands to advantage,
and then I returned to Mexico and for $21,000 negotiated for a smaller tract of land,
on which the Kickapooe now Uve.
Senator Clark, of Montana. How many acresr
Mr. Bentlet. I think about 800 acres of farming land. I bought six "days'* of
water. In that country they do not sell land bv acres, as a rule. They sell the
water instead of the land; or, in other words, the land goes with the water. I think
that the piece of land the Kickapoos now own contains about from 800 to 1,000 acres
ci Winning land, with some grazing land. They have there a large number of mules,
horses, and other property. The purpose is to convert the United States land into
money to enable them to acquire land in Mexico, and to improve their condition
there. After acquiring land, if there is any money left, it will be paid to them
according to their interests.
Senator McCumber. You do not represent any real-estate company?
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir.
Senator McCumber. And are not a member of a company that owns any of these
lands in Mexico, are you?
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir.
Senator McCumber. You simply go into the open market and buy land, do you?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes: I have workea diligently all summer in Mexico trying to buy
land. It is very difficult to get small tracts of land. I secured it just in time to
enable them to make a crop this season.
Senator Sutherland. Where did the money come from to buy this land?
Mr. Bentlet. It came from the sale of three tracts of land in Oklahoma. The
fijBt was the $82,000 transaction, whereby I received $15,500.
Senator Long. And you are to receive
Mr. Bentlet. I am to receive $16,500 more. The other tract sold for $3,050 in
cash. That I received for the Indians.
Senator Dubois. Was that one of thfti seven?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
The Chairman. WHrich one?
Mr. Bentlet. That was Noten's. It was agreed when I took Noten's deed that his
debts were to be paid. The other lands have not been disposed of on account of the
cloud which the Department has put on the title and because they could not be sold
to advantage.
Senator Sutherland. As to the land of Wahnahkethah, no contract has been made?
Mr. Bentlet. No; except I think that there is a mortgage of $3,000 on it.
Senator Sutherland. Money has been borrowed on the land?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
Senator McCumber. Now, take up the next item. The Department savs that
Neconopit's land was worth $5,000 and that he received $200; was the land worth
$5,000?
Mr. Bentlet. The most I was offered for Neconopit's land was $1,800.
The Chairman. This letter says he got $200. W^t have you to say about that?
Mr. Bentlet. He did.
The Chairman. Did he get any more than that?
Mr. Bentlet. Not yet.
The Chairman. Was there a contract for any more?
Mr. Bentlet. The contract was that when a home was oought for them in Mexico,
if there was any money left it should be divided among them as they would be enti-
tled to.
Senator Sutherland. How much was he to get beyond the $200?
Mr. Bentlet. I do not know what amount was specified in the deed, but that has
nothing to do with it — the amount specified in the deed. This is purely a matter of
exchange of land, or disposing of Indian lands in Oklahoma and acquiring land in
Mexico.
Senator Long. Were you acquiring land for him in Mexico, or for the common use
of the tribe?
Mr. Bentlet. The laud was for the use of the whole tribe.
1932 APFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO UiTDIANS,
Senator McCumbbb. What was to be paid for this land of Neconopit?
Mr. Bentlet. I can not say more definitely than that at the tune the deed was
executed he was paid $200.
Senator Sutherland. Was there any agreement as to the amount of the consid-
eration?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; we figured up in council what each Indian's land ought t:
bring. His was valued at $2,000 when the pool was made.
Senator McOumber. That is what we are trying to get at.
Senator Sutherland. Do you mean by that that all these lands were sold for a
single consideration?
Mr. Bentlby. No, sir.
Senator Sutherland. And then that $2,000 of it was set aside for this man, or how
is it? I do not understand the situation about that.
Senator Teller. You are not making this case at all plain.
The Chairman. You are getting vourscdf confused.
Senator Teller. As I understand you, all this property was put into a pool?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Teller. And you agreed to sell all of it for a certain sum?
Mr. Bentlby. Yes.
. Senator Teller. And that was to be used for the Indians in Mexico in buying land?
Mr. Bentlby. Yes.
Senator Long. Not only these Indians, but all Indians in the tribe.
Senator Teller. What was aU this land to bring— how mudi?
Mr. Bentlby. I was to get for Okemah and his wife $15,000 and, of course, more, if
more could be had, but I was to get that anyhow, in land or money.
Senator Long. You got $32,000?
Mr. Bentlby. Fifteen thousand dollars was the consideration named in the deed.
Senator Long. But it really was $32,000?
Mr. Bentlby. It sold for $32,000. Then I went and took the titles and came North
to sell the land.
Senator Sutherland. You mean the land was all deeded to you in trust?
Mr. Bentlby. No, sir; I had it deeded to W. W. Ives in trust.
Senator Sutherland. And this consideration you speak of was named in the Ivce
deed?
Mr. Bentlby. The consideration in the Ives deed for the Okemah land was $15,000.
Senator Long. Ives sold it for $32,000?
Mr. Bentlby. Yes.
Senator Long. He got the difference between the $15,000 and the $32,000?
Mr. Bentley. No. If it is ever paid the Indians will get the benefit of it. The
difference is in the bank in escrow, and I hold Mr. Ives's note for the amount.
Senator Sutherland. To whose credit is it in the bank?
Mr. Bentley. To Mr. Ives's credit. He is a responsible man, but the notes are in
my name as attorney for the Indians.
Senator Ix)no. What does Ives get out of it?
Mr. Bentley. Nothing. Ho is simply a good man in whom the title may rest with-
out risk to the Indians, except that he shall be paid a reasonable compensation for his
trouble.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Who is Mr. Ives?
Mr. Bentlby. He was formerly a merchant who lived in Indiana — at Delphi.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Are you and he interested together in any business?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir. We were friendly, that is all.
Senator McCumber. You say that the Neconopit land was put into the pool at an
estimated value of $2,000?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator McCumber. You consider that a fair value?
Mr. Bentley. I think at this time it might bring $2,300 or $2,400, possibly, but I
never was offered more than $1,800 for it.
Senator Dubois. In addition to the $200 you paid him he will get $2,000 with
which to buy land in Mexico?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator McCumber. The Commissioner of Indian Affairs, in the letter from which
I have read, says: *' Wahnahkethah obtained $200 in Mexican money while the allot-
ment was worth $44,000." What have you to say as to that?
Mr. Bentlby. Well, Senator, I think that is a mistake.
The Chairman. State what the facts are.
Mr. Bentley. I reeard the Wahnahkethah allotment as being worth $30,000.
Senator Teller. Who has got the title to that now?
Mr. Bbntlby. My wife holds it in truft.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1938
Senator Teller. In trust for whcnn?
Mr. Bentley. In trust for the Indians. She does not own the land.
The Chairman. Does the deed name her as trustee for the Indians?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Was there an agreement about that?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; there was an agreement. I think it is in the Border National
Bank. The Indians keep their papers and transact their business there. Okemah
left it to me as to who should take the title to his land, but Wahnahkethah wanted
my wife to take the title to his land.
Senator McCumber. In the deed you estimated that land as worth $30,000?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir. The consideration named in the deed is |10,0()0, but that
land is worth much more now.
Senator McCumber. How much is it worth?
Mr. Bentley. Now I think it is worth $30,000, but at that time it was not worth
that much. The Government sold an adjoining 80 acres nearer to the city for $28,300.
Senator McCumber. The Commissioner's letter recites that: *' Noten was paid $100.
The deed covers land worth $3,500.*' Explain that.
Mr. Bentley. Noten 's land sold for $3,050 in cash, and he has been paid in cash
about $1,000, perhaps a little more.
Senator Teller. Who has got the balance?
Mr. Bentley. I used that money in buying land over in Mexico where the Kicka-
poos are now living.
Senator Teller. Where is Noten now?
Mr. Bentley. He is in Mexico.
Senator McCumber. The next item in the Commissioner's letter is: ^^Tahpahthea
was paid $300, but the allotment is worth $5,000." Explain that.
Mr. Bentley. The allotment was not worth more than $2,500, total value.
Senator Sutherland. What was she to get altogether?
Mr. Bentley. I think the deed specified $2,500.
Senator Sutherland. Was that sold or was it put in trust?
Mr. Bentley. Mr. Ives also has the title to that, unless it has been disposed of
recently.
Senator Sutherland. But it is a deed absolute in terms?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator McCumber. As I understand it there is a contract given in these cases?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; they have a contract.
Senator Long. The Indians?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Long. From Ives?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; a contract from me, wherein I was tmstee. I was to convert
these lands into Mexican lands.
Senator Sutherland. You have already bought $21,000 worth of land in Mexico?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Sutherland. In whose name is that?
Mr. Bentley. In the name of Okemah.
Senator Teller. But he holds it for the tribe, does he?
Mr. Bentley. He holds it for all the others, bv their request.
Senator McCumber. In every case in which land has been deeded by the Indians
in a trust deed, is there a contract back from the trustee acknowledging that it is held
by him in trust?
Mr. Bentley. Well, practicallv. I drew as full a contract as I could, with the idea
that if I were to die or anything happened to me the Indians were to be protected as
against my heirs.
Senator McCumber. Then the contract is yours and not that of the party to whom
the deed was given?
Mr. Bentley. That is true to some extent. I am responsible to the Indians.
Senator Long. What sort of contract is there with Ives?
Mr. Bentley. Nothing in the world except that Ives would take these lands and
sell them to the best advanta^.
Senator Long. Is that a written contract?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Long. What did it provide as to the proceeds of sale?
Mr. Bentley. That they should be turned over to me for the benefit of the Indians.
Senator Sutherland. Have you got the contract?
Mr. Bentley. No.
Senator Long. What does Mr. Ives get for his trouble?
Mr. Bentley. He will be compensated to some reasonable extent.
1984 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator Long. No Bum is stated as conqieDaation?
Mr. Bentlbt. No, sir.
Senator Clark, of Montana. In your relation with these Indians, as their repre-
sentative, making these conveyances, have you also been their attorney, or were they
represented by counsel — that is, by some one other than you?
Mr. Bbntlet. No, sir. I am about the onl]^ white man who has their confidence.
Senator Clark, of Montana. So you stand in the relation of counsel, grantor, and
grantee, as the case may be? ,
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; in fact, I am employed by them and work for them as I would
lor a railway company or a bank or any booy else.
Senator McC umber. You get a salary?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; they pay me.
Senator Clark, of Montana. In case of vour death would their interests be protected?
Mr. Bentlet. Their interests would oe absolutely protected. My wife, even in
her will, has provided that these lands belong to these Indians.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Do the records show this?
Mr. Bentlet. Well, of course, a will is not usually a matter of record.
Senator Teller. You said something about there being something in the bank at
Eagle Pass.
Mr. Bentlet. I think the contract I gave the Indians is in the bank.
Senator Teller. You gave the Indians a written contract?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
Senator Teller. That you were to be a trustee?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
Senator Teller. And they have sot that?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; I think they nave it in the bank.
The Chairman. The contract is not between the Indians and your wife?
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir; unless my wife confirms it as well as she can.
The Chairman. You hold the title to the land?
Mr. Bentlet. The fact is we did not apprehend when the title passed that there
would be any such delay, or that we woula be hampered bv the Department. The
act of Congress removed restrictions as to sale, taxation, ana incumbrances on these
lands, and we went ahead. The Indian assent went into the newspapers and said that
^e law would be repealed and that we haa no title.
The Chairman. Who is the agent?
Mr. Bentlet. Frank A. Thackery. He is the agent for the Kickapoos, Shawnees,
and Pottawattomies.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Now, we understand that you are opposed to the
passage of the bill repealing the provisions relating to restrictions?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; we think it would be unjust and would work ruin to the Indians,
because we would be unable to meet the obligations we have incurred, and would lose
the money we have spent; besides, the title luus now passed.
Senator McCumber. Let us ^t an explanation of the last item here. The Com-
missioner of Indian Affairs in his letter says that next time ''Kishkenicquote seems
to have signed without consideration, but the limd is worth 15,000.*'
Mr. Bentlet. He is an heir of one allottee.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Which one?
Mr. Bentlet. Shuckeouah. The Commissioner is mistaken. That is not true.
He (Kishkenicquote) has oeen paid a considerable amount on the value of the land.
The value of the land is about $4,000, I think.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Is he in a fair way to get the balance of it, do you think?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes, if the Department will relieve the cloud from the title, so that
land can be acquired for him in Mexico. He was bom in Mexico and wants to live
^ere.
Senator Teller. He was bom in Mexico?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. How much do you owe on this land that you bought in Mexico?
Mr. Bentlet. About $15,000, on the grazing land and the hurm land.
Senator Teller. How much grazing land have you got?
Mr. Bentlet. Forty thousand acres.
Senator Teller. In addition to this other?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes.
Senator Teller. Is that ^ood mzing land?
Mr. Bentlet. Part of it is as fine as any in the Republic.
Senator Clark, of Montana. From whom did you buy it?
Mr. Bentlet. From the owner, a Mexican citizen.
Senator Clark, of Montana. Did they take a mortgage on the property?
AnAZ3e& c>7 TH2 inrrcAy x:-rzji?co isvsasSi, 1$S5
iur tsji* iLiii ir";3 T ^ 'j*ra.T "lsb^ isit^ 'i£»!t p'jm Sdc^ u Liit -.incizikZ TViriff "rjiuifinft
:t«iiir.:r 'ctxr. jf )£:«i.ucil S.cii*r;: tit li.* fc owit a, -wmnr
S*^LLtr--.ir 1j: * :■ Tii-.»w :z. >C*T.ir u-* ii-.-v^Tfr -.r.fr.^^-.-'ur incii "-ut: imi t#»«cL jus-
"Lli* lli'.il U Vj* ♦♦»t*1 I.-jl.il.".:*'
1 »«•*': :i ^iA* Z.ii: ;L'i» "rii: f .j^^miiyi "lia 11*1111*7' v. i«*jt ~. i>Lr: ;ii*7 urt j»m-ti -ttj*** ^
•»*'::l: r 7i:iii.ri. i".- Lii* v-^* r:»»« i: "Zi** **?t«l^
it-- ilTTTirT V«t
t>*'::L-.r liii-i .Liii "uix* :cu*c* tn j«ra_':ru»ii ^: irrt ut n*
A_' 1 1 -'TL IT y*»
Ji' .'. • •^-ir :'^ SI- "-ii* 22i:>ai"j* t** i*?:.*r'^.:ii*fi ut iwr. w >.HaL.t'> ^: vjcpvl
-♦•-ii/ " 7ir.^ii- Tit'T* li r.iii'* iii'ii'*^- :i "Uii* Tr^ihPVJT- 5:r "Ji:j:i« IjiiCjEiff*
A • 1 L . 7'. 1: i.ii.':n ti:: '.Ol "Lio."; *-»*-j:ruEi •.: k^inu: l.>t '.c *uiiri:i. -p.ij-ji -!>>■■* fciiuis
Tii* v-i* ' »-. :'■. .x:*-: •».iar. :::j* :ir.»:-*7 tiv.Ji ••* ^li-ii i- ■«ix*rj. :trr -ii.T'-a. it. -uii* r.-n^-
tr v-i' I... '■.■..'■: - v.: V. -■«^ >*•?«• r^ '■♦ruH**: t^* iii-.tii*^- T!li^7 sii.: :.' v u* :i.ii: iii-.»ii*7-.
UTi: ■,:.-•' .'■.■:_.: iit. »a:-. -^ * y-.-v -uii*7 viii:: iins lU'.citT" JLTLAiii* : ic --iit vytTT Vf
iii,^-. :-
•>*':iiL**r 7 1" en v.i.> :::■* 7-**^
A-' 'I T-.i ■: .••••'•-:»•■ -i^ "liar, -ji.u 211^1*7 frul '-i* in»r. • ••. * ^-i ':t*r 'JUT^r.^
liTii'Tu ".•- -T- I*. . • • ■■. - I'.i'. ii'.k •-•fc.iu* ij»r* V. "*» uHLj.-ir'..'.»i Liii Im;»:»-:u*': V. Sein-v.c
?-•■;■. ;ir--v -. v-oj:* fciv.-r l— a '.ii.'-''.i*n : ▼iiw^-.^ lii^^ -r.'-Ji: ujh* r:- -uri^n' -.rj". u: «i*t
7'*^u*!::-; i* : j.Jt.i ^"i »*•. v.:i.' : v.>-._ii :•* »Ain_nr ;.i "..*?■'«:. z.-'j'. - t *:i. : " Jv. Tr-.i-jj
111 i:---; -v _ ••- •a.*'* a*r; :.i '-i* 7r*ju«-jrr I -p-.H T^-t r* i::^ liiI uTi.-ir- «: '.iaj: "riiW.
7 '.»'^ viii it'll '^.ir. ~ .ti VT."'. *... T.-T- * v vjn r: j'.rjK i:t t-jl. H* ir.<: ki «ib:r:,a*«s
-11 --: !* I .: . : ..ir. l : ■ ; »• >: r :i :j . 1 •. •_ ic .* uii* 1 ' 1 r^W v^ • i t^.tj 1 *^ t "uU^* '-u» ruicivj
H!i'.»'...'l l.T-V ^'-r^^^. i". 1 :i»r '.:*1'. t»W i.— -"*t i^;^ "uIUJ: Idtf 11*1*11 TJi-il t-'- vi ' T «•■».'»
"Uii.: •-•'.:■'■
•v.iL". »• 7 i LI II. I'-et --Lit u't :»"i--ji:* ii'.*f >.*ur :" «ii.7 •.!* 'uj*?! 17 *
\\j li ni' _•■'•. : «,;•» V. *.•* r»''-u.i'rii u fc j**r^;i;ri*cr> ru'-ii i"! vi-j'u. "uii* V.-f-
flmiKf". '. »ii:i.. ::L ;■ 1 :»-- ■■-'": :»*r i-i * i.v. .Ky..'Cr 1 ic 'uii* TiTfit:^" r»Jbi;*
>. . J : k* --I ' . '1 . ; .■..-.:■- ;• ■■ : 'luu :■ -"t '. ■ ' 'i \: • »* : >i*a 1 i' r "ui- * -.^eu . c l:. ■ : -* \ . ■ -.1 :; "uisfef-
11-*^. : .r ■,:*".■.- I "1. -. v^;:^'. 'oi* '. -.".vi -".t"^ ue"**^ "' :>i.* '.: * *:i : '*...■ txr,*\t\
I.ii: ;i.'jf *»i ••^ : iSL'. •.■■.:-*ii i."!'.':ii- •^.*':i ^•♦r 'act-i. uM!*r "«i;* : '--.i ■*. c '.i-^ ..'•n-
1: .*-='.''.■*•• >: r*.«: .1.'. .». ^.L. n i'.r '-1* .r. ■»— - -•ii«i.; ic 'ui'*t.* kljI i-1a.iu1'.*'i.14 liii iie ;n*it*r
"'..**!• •*»^ *! •* M ''IT l'*".!' "."! '1* h;— • .r ir'.4 ^.;'r.
v*'::r •• 7 I... 11. It :jii* :.:■* ii^u: "o^ u-r.*
jt.' J: i •^. I ■ 'i-tk i'i.*-i;i„- r — i -«'-.•.»* u::'.;*t;»"^i isiid io,'* * iior a-iii:* cm 'JiiHr
hj'.'Ii*'; .' ".'v ':. '. '.i'.'. rr» V l: : :.: '•..• i:ii»ii*7'
-»'■':: I. -.-.'• _: 1 1 '-A : ■.. M ■■■•.a.': ui 'ui'»7 -rvi.*. v. v. "r."^ :.:*
at.'- }. I T.i' 7 »■ I :»-"-■: ■. 1 jt'T.-".:: ii»* u* ;>ii"'uu**r ■.■: k.hix tiii -.1 -.i*?r..--!: "Liivr
v.'M I '1 7'i--; i.i - --'-^i *• .. '. :»»-'^--a.'.'-c.'M.7 1 ' -?r "ui-*-*
--•::i .'•:.. t i ' .■' ■• M-.a >.' v :i 1 -i i? *ait*r* -i. M - :.■.-.': lii'v'
ji' J. L " . -. 7 ■.. •*-■-!_• *^ '-ii.'ahi-ii: '-ii'^ta. Z.; i.'-ii.'--::_*.i 11 liol: l-.l iir *a»'JL
'.r ■ ii .— . '" :-"~ • •
7i--- it I'' ■ ■■• •■.k'i- .:: -W'-'i-M. V -i :^*- ?!. •iis:i'». I.*.:..i.*rf •: yl^vjl Z T-ijLZ
\: -ju. M - L ' ■ • 1- -".v. "-'r 7'-. --v T*^.-;'. - l1 »r,.-:^i.i -;!:'..:••_ T"!.:* no-i
i«*-' .' •:.•.'■ .. ■' •■■•■■li.* M- '.i^tr 1 -.a* .•:•- .c i."; »: "li-"j.. 7'i! *^ l'.>'..iX.'^i :■--■ *r
: ■^•t: '.-. *-'■..". ■. » -■•"■**. -'-'■ ■ - -* '■■■'.'.'. '-1 - ."."'T'L".,". i-l.; Tr^ah •* *. ;JL M-.-'H
Ml' -i>- 111 • ■ . .- ■ -■". '.'.'" ":-•.* .1.1 1 Hi* l-.i.'" 11 r". ".* ..1 ".■_.;* ■ ..l"." 7*' if
r*.ii..i..i liUf :- ■ ■ L." ::* v. -•*. : : »• *v •• m.*-- ^i.*' 1 1 . Vz i.'- 1 : i.*. "m1i»
1US6 AFFAIBS O? THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Bbntley. During the part euinmer a special agent was sent to Mexico and vis-
ited the President of the Republic and the governor of the State in which the Indians
are located and sought the aid of the Mexican courts there to get them out. The
Indians and myself were under an order of the Mexican court. We were detained
and interrogated and deprived of our liberty for there or four days, in order that the
agent of -the Department mi^ht interrogate us. I have been at all times ready to
answer anything that was asked of me, but tbe Indians insist that Mexico is tneir
home, and they will not return to the United States.
Senator Teller. I wish you would state something of the character of the country
to which they have eone, what you can raise there, etc.
Mr. Bbntlet. Well, first, the native population of the country is almost entirely
Indian — ^Mexican Indian. They are peaceful people, and there are but few white
people there. The valleys are wide. The Sabine River furnishes an ample supply
of water for the irrigation of thousands of acres of land. There is plenty of game, aeer,
bear, etc., beyond the mountains. The country is called a desert, not because it is
barren of vegetation, but because there is no water there. There are lots of black-taii
deer.
Senator Teller. Any wild turkeys?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; in the fall of the year the country is full of wild turkeys, and
they come down out of the mountains by the thousands. There is another thing about
it that induces the Indians to go to Mexico. In this country they were all dying,
while over there they have fine health.
Senator Teller. What is the elevation of the country?
Mr. Bentley. The place where we have the farm is about 2,300 feet altitude, and
where we have the grazing land is about 4,500 feet.
Senator Clark, of Montana. How isr from a railroad is it?
Mr. Bentley. The farm land is about 10 miles from a railroad and the grazing land
about 176 miles.
Senator Clark, of Montana. From the Mexican Central?
Mr. Bentley. No; from the Mexican International.
Senator McCumber. Is there any fruit raised there?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; fine fruits. Many of the fruits of California — ^malaga grapes,
some oranges, and other fruits such fts grow in Texas.
Senator LoNO. Is fruit grown by the Indians?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; we have not been there long enough for that.
Senator Long. How long have you been there?
Mr. Bentley. The Oklanoma Indians becan eoing there six years ago.
Senator Teller. They first went to the old Mexican reservation?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; tney opened fields and built fences and spent a lot of money
there. Afterwards President Diaz insisted that they should get a home somewhere
else. He said he was friendly to them and was willing for them to buy land and settle
and live in the country; but he did not wish them to live on the same reservation
with the old-timers, because there was not land enough there for all of them.
Senator Clark, of Montana. WTiat is the object of the Department, or of whoever
is acting in this matter, in endeavoring to get these Indians back into the United
States?
Mr. Bentley. I am unable to state. They are practically Mexicans. I do not
know why our Government should want them to return.
Now, in the matter of lease money, I think that these Indians are entitled to this,
at least — if Concress will remove the restrictions as to leasing, from these nonresident,
or Mexican, Indians, permitting them to lease for a period not to exceed five years, the
trouble we are havine with the Department will then be over.
Senator Teller. You mean the land in Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentley. These Government agents will not lease these lands tQ the same
advantage that an individual can. I am certain that 1 can get more money for the
Indians out of this land than the Government is now getting, and lease the land more
satwfactorily to the Indians. I had an experience of several years in leasing these
same lands.
The Chairman. Has any member any more questions to ask? If not, Mr. Bentley
will be excused now, and will return here to-morrow.
(Adjourned.)
AFFAIBS O^ !tH£ MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIES. 1937
Committee on Indian Affairs,
United States Senate,
Washington J D. C, March 25, 1906.
Preeent: Messrs. Clapp (chairman), McCumber, Gamble, Sutherland, Dubois,
Clark, of Montana, and Teller.
STATEMENT OF MB. MARTIN J. BENTLBT — Continued.
Mr. Bbntley. Gentlemen, taking up the question of this amendment [for the
issuance of patents], I wish to cite to the comnuttee an opinion rendered by the Com-
missioner of the General Land Office. He says:
*' I am of the opinion that the le^l effect of the act was to create a erant in prsesenti,
and that the issuance of a patent is onlv necessary as evidence of title. A number of
fee patents have all been issued and delivered and the parties entitled thereto pro-
vided for in other sections of said act of Congress, and I see no reason why like action
should not be taken in this case."
Senator Teller. That refers to these Kickapoos?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
The United States attorney in Oklahoma, Horace Speed, was petitioned by an
Indian agent to defend an action where one of the purcnafers of one of these tracts
of land in question sought to remove some tenants who were on the land without
lease. In a letter to the Attorney-General, dated December 6, 1905, Mr. Speed says:
"It would seem that the Indian allottee has no longer any interest in or to this
tract of land, and has no interest to be protected, unless it is desired that suit be brought
to set aside the deed made to Ida B. Bentley, and this could only be done upon the
request of the Indian allottee, who has removed to Mexico."
This correspondence grew out of the application of the Shawnee Town Site Com-
pany, who were the purchasers of two of the tracts in question.
The Chairman. Which tracts did they purchase?
Mr. Bentley. Okemah's and his wife's.
Senator Dubois. They are next to the town?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; next to the town of Shai;<^ee.
The Chairman. Did they purchase from this man that took the title, of whom you
spoke yesterday?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; W. W. Ives.
Now, gentlemen, it appears to me that while I find in the report of the Department
that my character is brought into question, and while that does not ordinarily affect
this committee, perhaps, I think it is vitally important in this connection. If I am
disreputable and it is true that I control these Indians, as alleged, it is vitally impor-
tant whether I am honorable or dishonorable. To enlighten the committee I wish to
read one or two short papers.
Here is a communication to the Secretary of the Interior, written October 8, 1898, by
Mr. Cyrus Beede, in which Mr. Beede transfers to the Interior Department the sworn
statement of Mr. James F. Holden, then traffic manager of the Choctaw, Oklahoma
and Gulf Railway, and who at the present time Ls the freight traffic manager of the
Rock Island system of railways, located in Chicago, and who will be admitted to be as
honorable a man as there is in the country. I did not know that this statement was
in the Department until I found it in the answer of the Secretary of the Interior to the
Penrose resolution.
Department op the Interior,
United States Indian Inspection Service,
Sac and Fox Agency, Okla., October 8, 1898,
Hon. C. N. Bliss,
Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith testimony of Frank P. Steams,
postmaster at Shawnee,. Okla., also that of James F. Holden, traffic manager of the
Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railway Company, concerning charges against Martin
J. Bentley, preferred by S. M. Brosius. I desire to have these papers attached to and
made a part of my report thereon, already in your hands.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Cyrus Beede,
United States Indian Inspector,
1988 AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDIAK8.
Indian Territort,
,«••
Personally appeared before me the undersigned authority, James F. Holden, of
lawful age, and to me well known, and who upon oath states as follows:
I am traific manager for the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railway Company, and
have had ample occasion to note^ and have noted, the success of Special Asst. Indian
Agent Martin J. Bentley has met in his efforts to induce the Mexican Kickapoo Indians
to occupy and imi>xx)ve their allotments and to lease and consent to have their leases
and theu: country impxx)ved.
Our first train crossed the east line of the Kickapoo country July 4, 1895, and at that
time the allotted lands of the Kickapoo for miles west of Shawnee were not inhabited
nor impxx)ved, and they so remainea until after the appointment of Mr. Bentley.
Since that time the countrv has gradually changed; fences, fields, and Indian hab-
itations appearing, and the blanket Indians are often seen from our trains tilling their
fields, erecting fences, making hay, and performing other farm labor.
I have seen the Kickapoo Indians on the streets of Shawnee with farm produce
for sale, and it has been a matter of considerable comment among the officers of our
company that Mr. Bentley was making a great success in his new position, he having
resif^ned a position with our line to become Indian agent.
Mr. Bentley's services as traveling agent for our company were principally in con-
nection with my department, and were highly satisfactory to me and tne company,
and I believe, from personal observation, that the charges preferred against Mr. rent-
ley by Mr. Brosius and others must be either the work of persons jealous of Mr. Bentley 's
success or prompted by malicious motives on the part of Mr. Brosius and his advisers.
I know one Kickapoo Indian who wore a blanket in 1896, and of late have observed
him at our station at Shawnee, Okla., attired in a neat suit of broadcloth clothes,
starched collar, and Prince Albert coat. He, with other neatly dressed and cleanly
Kickapoos, are often seen on Sunday standing on our depot platform, watching the
trains come and so.
In a period of less than three years, these Indians have been brought from blanket
to broadcloth, from filth to cleanliness, and from savagery to respectability and en-
lightenment, and from a life of idleness to willing and reasonably successful tillers
of the soilj if, in doing this, Mr. Bentley has not been a success and he has thwarted
the good intention of the Government of the United States toward tliew Indians,
as Mr. Bropius states, then I am at a loss to know where and what may constitute the
standard of success.
J. F. HOLDEN.
Subscribed and afiirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
[seal.] R. £. Campbell.
I find among the papers sent in by the Secretary, in repponse to the same resolution,
another paper, which I will read. It is another communication of Mr Beede, and
incloses an affidavit of Mr. Fred S. Goodrich, United Stales commissioner at Shawnee,
Okla. It is as follows:
Department op the Interior,
United States Indian Inspection Service,
Sac and Fox Agency ^ Okla., October 6, 1898.
Hon. C. N. Bliss,
Secretary of the Interior , Washington^ D. C.
Dear Sir: Referring to my recent report of investigation into the charees against
Martin J. Bentley, assistant special a^nt, I have the honor to tran.sniit herewith a
statement from Hon. F. S. Gowirich, United States cominiHHioner, which he has vol-
untarily transmitted to me from Shawnee, which I desire to be attached to the testi-
mony in the case, now in your hands, and made a part thereof.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Cyrus Beede,
United States Indian Inspector.
Shawnee, Okla., October 5 , 1898.
I, Fred S. Goodrich, United States commissioner in and for tho third judicial dis-
trict, Oklahoma Territory, do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with
Martin J. Bentley, assistant special Indian agent for the Kickapoo Indians at Shawnee,
Okla.
I have closely observed Mr. Bentley 's methods and am very favorably impressed
with his work; not only does he labor for the best interests of the Indians, but he ii
ever watchful for the Gfovemment to protect it, as well aa the Indian in his rights and
jkrwjom cr xem wmrjfcs mscMMWOo lanAjBiL ldd9
-wmiii 'to Skt ITU.
ji :l:» tJiricLnf^. i^oii ^sdvscixLli'flfsiws&jftiiu&iasftifW'BS «^ JnAngariaos ft inmiM,
l£r S*»iLi:it»7 iuuf •*aD»rai aice^ rtrsraplamci JoaouB stoa iceiEp^sa ami \^isd^ iftdos
li -riiakj v« Ei«i.antf :uiaa: aH '^s&its <?fam nr»?rf. acui I hannt WMKstL qq iydiiievtt^ aoAt iot
jii»La»^«»^ t:;aa2 lift •>flrii4C v>^rk BL d^
I iiiaji>»^ riLM gar,«*gtfnc ac olj 4wa BXflCizuft. s«iii«7iiig^ Mr. B^BCiiej xax^vl '^xojutL,
•«xii>£Z»£ir„ mit i&CiHbeuc «-.ifir.i»r. «uidi»t icc inly QO' c&e^ vm&Afoitak «£ G&« Fh:tms^
Fkxi> ^ Gfy^ovoGE^
r**{uir«;r Tzzjica. £ jik azimiie t&ftKr fsspm an, lAims £nat t^ ymnniMtgr sK
Mr. 3z:f7!:2T 0^ p*]r FasLk S. d&aciUL I /HnaxAti ca RAii iftac Bitmik «4>
.S»fliu;:r rirrga. Mr E^*fniit t^nnifmiia -^nc ate &i ^i» D*»^anauai£.
Mr Bi^fTLiTT Y-»ff' r haul -iv^rtxicwi hl tsur E jsk -Jisic iic"->»- hM«r;wi ia. ^A^ nmeA^
hvasokw Tir.f.gjL H^ «7^ 4vihiBU2ir.ikil7 r^ saut^ •;hmg as Mr. K:ui*^.
Th* a£itarrx is as i:D;i»-
F-voRnskZrr ay^*sar«ft 't«^:r» 'Jb^ nif«sucu*fL Taaik P. dsiscss. v&c ixp#:a 'isc^ acacoK
3K»xu; '^ Mirun. J h^^Jizittj. ushmtjuu; <^«!iBl Um&tfi ^cas^s fiifngi aoRsic azuf I kaow
nr.in ^i^zv'.mi^ irjf<*r^3^;c '.^;in Mr. E^^lcLsj ham h^HSL 'F'^^ri'^y ia. iiis e&ra sa Ii«9hd ?&•
SLt'.icx^x Ijii «nf» V. 1. 1 ,ir;t*r and h^nsxe rximtntva.
XT. 'iu'^ -nnu^ -^ ijf ^Cf'.mrnufiic "^ iorirfng' 3Cf»xa!azL EksaEpix ynrfrarm ws Kvv^
in 2'«^p J \r£ izui .::wr^..'.ti.rjkr'ji^s. a^i snc a ^tngl> kn^JTiy Eirfciyao Firfran ]rv«4 am
'J4% 5.;^-^ ''-inaitjia t iLf^j. ^jrjL vtzia kia aipcciaiuiiiuic Mr. B^idiffj swrjnsKsigA am
^Hii'.tyt -ji»* -.ill ii^iitrt •.♦Mf.r.ir^.g v* -Jii*ffl. zrxx v. "iit* alji:nau»n£ ifttx'u£r.3:inii. azui 5ar
•:a*» 3aiB: rv'; j-^sl^ -jh^'j io.!-^ zra»i.mIlTr aii:*i*fi -.nc is«*-a uOiur iaiirrjizial iazuis.. 'w^isA
Xiii 3:r --li* -a*»r. ":-i^: 7*a*r* lii* E-ikaci.rjt aa^y* oioti^ ipnmittfil pr"4r»as zl ia«i "TOxof
ir^sixinir i^liI •*r»r.r.;rjr Mj^.s*. liit :a >an;Ttir v. larxr Sir '±i*nii*^'T<>s. T^t'itic and
juiu •«i■.'3■^ -¥:r.ri \: •':LaTr3j*f>^ i2iit '-.rj^ir aa.7. 3ii*ii'.mf. ithhl -v^kl Kni 1 -nr.^^ "ihxs^
-yrrjVM^A j'.r mu*. i*l :c vfLj i -.^ii^y iiiui ii*-?-*? ti:ai* ^ru-.r v. "Ai^ T.mi* -^ Mr d-Htdi^ 5
Iccrmrai**!!::. I ^>Hr»:r.ar. 7 rr.i.v 2:11*17 -^ "ii»^s«^ liitiu*-:*, isui -^7 iZL ".t*!! aie 'JUC
3€r i»*iicji*7 J* I. ir.oi np»iin- tc^i i^ian iii^ :iakt ime 3i:i«:ii jtx 'jitocL, ▼kU'ii I knew v. a«
Fa-urc P. rrraja.
t<irjrr*.>.#*ft uut i^:n tu 'i»»n:r* =** -iis jiiL iij '^ Orr-'>.#?r. lifl*.
)lCj ■"•.mmiHJHi.g ^rr^^r-^ 7vrjiskrT 2* I*(KK,
an-^'-iiiiiir '.' u\ vr^ "Ji**»t I:ii': aza.
^Hf% ■'-'k.t:xj^«_f Til* I'r^Jir-jTL.'r.r. «m :t^ v. is 7*ffl:f»rii7 i, 2ia«a :c pic»tia riiafi^
1940 AFFAIItS Olf THE MEXICAK KICKAPOO IKDIAKfi.
•
Mr. Bentlet. This man Dixon quotes Inspector Zevdy. He says:
"Mr. Zevely, in one of his reports to the Department, says of Mr. Bentley: *He is
a verjr auiet, plausible gentleman, who has a purr like a cat and nice, velvety paws,
in whicn there are some very sharp claws. '"
Now, Mr. iSevely never made any report to the Department concerning me. He
was detailed to investigate some matters connected with mjr office. If he ever made
anv report, it was a verbal report, or else it is not to be found in the Secretary's answer.
If ne made a verbal report, lapprehend Mr. Dixon's quotation is from that.
Senator Teller. You did not find Mr. Beede's report among the papers?
Mr. Bentley. No. The Indian Rights Association made very serious chaiges
against me, and persisted in making charees. I asked Commissioner Jones to send
some inspecting officer who was in sympathy with them down there and have these
matters mvestigated, and told him that then this trouble would end. As a conse-
quence, Mr. Beede was sent there and took the testimony of everybody in that coun-
try— every banker and everybody else — and made a very thorough investigation and
extensive*report. But the Department has not been able to fina that report. They
say that a copy will follow later.
Senator Teller. The report of the same man to whom those certificates or affidavits
were sent which have been placed on the record.
Senator McCumber. Does he make any particular chaxge in the papers?
Senator Teller. Inspector Beede is speaking of this man's character, but they can
not find his report. The Department says it has been mislaid.
Senator McCumber. I would not attach much importance to a report that does not
give any facts.
Mr. Bentley. Referring to paragraph 1, on page 25, on the copy of Inspector Dixon's
report, to the Commissioner of Indian A£fair8, as appears on tnat pa^ in the type-
written copy before me, Mr. Dixon makes a statement regarding the Kickapoos, and I
want to defend the Kickapoo Indians against this infamous and unwarranted chaige
which he makes. He says:
^'As to the condition oi the Kickapoo Indians in Mexico, it would be difficult for me
to describe the actual condition of these Indians as they appeared to me. In my expe-
rience I have never seen any Indians so low in the scale in ooth mental and moral con-
ditions, so dissipated through strong drink, and its attendant evils, so entirely lacking
in all the elements which make for mannood and civilization as are these Mexican
Kickapoo Indians. Degradation and misery are plain, and there is an apparent help-
lessness and hopelessness among all. While a few of the leading Indians made profes-
sions of being satisfied with their present condition, I am satisfied from information
that thd large majority are discontented and unhappy."
That statement is unwarranted. They have been in a disturbed condition, it is
true, because the Department has contmually harassed them and has held up the
fimds that would have enabled them to have gotten a home and to have immediately
settled in that country, and they have had to camp out for two years waiting for relief.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs says he never will pay them their lease money
unless they renounce me. I have been honest with the Indians and diligent in taking
care of their interests, and I do not know how he is going to get them to renounce me.
I think another thing should be taken into account by this committee.
These Kickapoo Indians are the last full-blood remnant of the whole Algpnquian
race. They were dying in Oklahoma, and would have become extinct in a little while
had they remained there.
They practice the same religion to-day that they did probably when Columbus came
here, and they are so devout in this practice that they would starve to death before
deviating; an atom from the laws of the Great Spirit, as they understand them.
The farts are that until I took charge of these Indians no white man and no person
connected with the Government haabeen able to make an enrollment of them. I
made the first authentic enrollment that was ever made by their consent.
The agent in charge of these Indians in 1891 rep)orts that they were in a starving con-
dition, because of the drought in the country in which they lived, and he asked the
Department for authority to purcha.*^ seven months' rations for them, and he reports
that thoy were so much opposed and so much afraid of allotment that they refused to
sipn for iht»Ho rations, and that he was compelled to sell them in the market. That
same year they are reported to have made a treaty with the United States Government
whereby they sold their surplus land, taking an allotment of 80 acres each.
Now, as a matter of fact, they never made any such treaty. The Commission
appointed by the Government got them together in council ana submitted a propo-
sition to them to sell their surplus lands and to take allotments. Those who favored
the proposition were told to stand up. One lone Indian stood up, but he was not a
Kickapoo. The vote b recorded that they had all voted for the proposition except
AFFAIB8 OF THS MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1941
one. Tlien a delegation consistiiig of a white man and an Indian were brought here.
The white man spoke Kickapoo, but the Indian could not speak English. Under a
]»etend6d authorization they signed a treaty by which the United States took their
BurpluB hmd at 32} cents per acre. The Pottawotamies to the south of them, who had
inferior land, but had a white blood among them, and he spoke English, were paid
$1.50 an acre for their land, and the Sac and Foxes adjoining them on the east were
paid $1.25 an acre. The poor Kickapoos who could not speak English were paid 32}
cents an acre. ' Those who have gone to Mexico were that element of the tribe that
rebelled against being robbed of their land. It is true that they have no confidence in
this Government, and I am frank to say that they are warranted in that. They want
to Viye in Mexico, where they can live their own way, and I hope this committee will
not aid the Department in their extermination.
I think you gentlemen have pretty good knowledge of the Indians and can under-
stmd the situation.
I do want to recommend this, on behalf of the Indians, and I have been requested to
da fo; that the nonresident Kickapoo Indians be permitted to lease their lands for a
penod not exceeding five years, without the approval of the Department, and without
refltriction, and if that is done the Indians will be better and the trouble will all be
over.
These people were bom in Mexico and speak the Mexican language and but few of
them speak English. The parish priest at Muzquiz, Mexico, speaking of these Indians,
says, on page 28 of the Dixon report:
" If the Indians would hire a good lawyer," —
Referring to the Oklahoma Indians, of course —
"they could make their claims for lands in the Naciomiento colony good. The very
fact of their having been removed by force of arms to the United States does not make
l^em United States citizens. If they had voluntarily removed and voluntarily
accepted United States citizenship, it would be different; but as all has been done
under compulsion and they have returned at the earliest opportunity, they have in no
wise foregone their nghts."
Senator Teller. He is making that statement in Mexico?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes. That priest has lived over forty years there. He was present
when Maior McKenzie came there and captured these Indians. I refer to that as
showing tneir former condition in Mexico.
Senator Teller. If we should conclude to pay the Indians their lease money, how
would you get it to them?
Mr. Sentley. I should send it to them by check, or take it to them. I go there often.
Senator Teller. Is there no bank there? The Department would hardly trust you.
Mr. Bentley. The Indians have asked that the money due them should be paid to
them through the Border National Bank, of Eagle Pass, W. A. Bonnett, president.
Mr. Bonnett speaks Spanish — speaks it preferably to English, though he is an American
and, as the Indians all speak ^anish, ne can identify them.
Senator Teller. Would it be satisfactory to the Indians if the Government should
pay the money into that bank*!*
Mr. Bentley. Yes: that would be satiM'actory to them. They have always asked
to be paid through that bank. They do not want the Government agents to come there
and pay them. They do not want to be harassed by them any more.
Senator Teller. As old John, the Indian who is here with you, said to me the oth^
day, he **does not want the wolves to get after them any more."
Sir. Bentley. They do not want the Government to come there and bother them
any more. That is wnat they left this country for, to avoid being harassed by Govern-
ment agents and by the Department. They were continually harassed by somebody
on the part of the Government.
I notice that the Commissioner of Indian Affairs says that if these titles can not be
abolished, he thinks Confess should take some action so that if an Indian goes to some
other country and abandons the United States his allotments be canceled. It seems
that if they are not willing to remain under the iurisdiction of the Interior Department,
then the Commissioner of Indian Affairs woula deprive them of their inheritance I A
number of references to that effect are in this correspondence from the Department.
Senator McCumber. I want to make a suggestion, and that is that Mr. Bentley pre-
pare a written statement in answer to that letter that we had yesterday, so that he can
put down in concise form just the facts about all those statements and what lands have
oeen bought, etc. We got at it in a kind of fragmentary way yesterday, jumping from
one subiect to another. Just put it in a statement, Mr. Bentley, and make it full and
clear— the answers to the points in that letter, also the matter of the trusteeship and
the amount of lands, etc.
Senator Teller. What you sold the lands for and what they used the fund for?
1942 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator McCuhbbr. Yes: juBt take each man's case up and present them one after
another, and especially so tnat we shall know something about the land that they are
getting in return and so that we can readily see the consideration that they received.
Senator Gamble. Another thinff that occurs to me is this: You were acting as agent,
employee, or trustee for those Indians?
Mr. Bbntlet. Yes.
Senator Gamble. And for these lands and properties you appear to be responsible
to them. There appear to be deeds executed by certain of these Indians to yourself?
Mr. Bbntley. i es.
Senator Gamble. And to other parties. Would it not be well, especially as chaiges
are made aeainst you, that a formal declaration of trust in some form should be mswle
by your wife and the other parties who hold these lands, so that in case of their death
or otherwise those Indians could not be wronged, or that they— jour wife or the other
parties — could not sell or dispose of the properties if they felt so disposed and absolutely
nold the funds and rob the Indians?
Mr. Bentlet. I want to say, Senator^ frankly, that I shall be glad to follow out any
suggestions. I want to protect the Indians. I have taken this trust and I want to be
true to it. I have been with the Indians fifteen years and expect to be with them as
long as I live. I have lived on the frontier twenty-four years and I like the Indians,
and I like the frontier as they do.
Senator McGumber. Are those deeds recorded?
Mr. Bentlet. The deeds to those parties?
Senator McCumber. Yes.
Mr. Bentlby. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. If they are there ought to be an instrument also recorded in
connection with them reciting the fact of that deed and that it is in trust, and the con-
ditions of the trust, so that your record can be clear.
Senator Teller. You mean the deed to his wife, for instance?
Senator McCumber. Yes; that his wife should give them a contract back, or a paper
showing that it was received in trust.
Mr. dentley. The facts are that this condition was never anticipated. It was
supposed that the lands could be ea^iily sold and converted into monev. It was not
apprehended that the Department could or would interfere. But when they did,
and put a cloud on the title, then I made the best of what I had to do with. The
Department raising this troulsle prevented me from carrying out the plan.
Senator Teller. The whole matter would have been disposed off
Mr, Bentley. Yes.
Senator Teller. And your wife would have sold the land for the benefit of the
Indians?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; and the whole arrangement would have been carried out. I
could have gone on and sold the lands, but at a disadvantage. If the Secretary would
comply, as directed by Confess, instead of putting a cloud on the title, the arrange-
ment would have been carried out.
Senator Sutherland. You may have stated it while I was out, and if so, you need
not repeat your answer. What was the particular reason for putting the title in the
names of those people instead of allowing it to remain in the names of the Indians?
Mr. Bentley. Tnere were two reasons. My wife is a very solvent person, and I
explained to the Indians that I had better putthis title in the name of some responsi-
ble person. My wife knows all those people personally, and they know her. I thought
it best to do that, because if I were not at Shawnee, those who held the lands could go
forward and do whatever was needed in the interests of the Indians.
Senator Sutherland. Did you think it would facilitate a sale?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; in fact it did. Mr. Ives came down there from Indiana. He
was a new man in the country, and the real estate men there di^l not want him in the
field. They organized a company called the Shawnee Town Site Company, and the
land was sold for at least $10,000 more than it could now sell for. Mr. Ives made a
splendid trade for those Indians, lie is a cautious and safe man.
Senator Teller. Most of those Indians were in Mexico, were they not?
Mr. Bentley. All of them were there. The statement I made to the Indian Oflire
was true. Okemah's family had actually inherited a right to the reservation in Mexico
and would be permittf^l to live there now, but they preferred to remain with the Okla-
homa branch of the tribe.
Senator Sutherland. Have you ever statwi all those facts to the Secretary of the
Interior or the Commissioner oflndian Affairs?
Mr. Bentley. I have preseutcHi this matter very fully in writing to the S(»cretary of
the Jpterior, but have iifver receivtHl any reply. 1 have copies of letters in which I
presented the matter as far as I could.
J.J7X.-3S 'jw £H3 ^w^^*^-*^ £i:i:zjl?«:-o- ztllls^ Vi^
.1.- 2 I ; —--• ' . »s- :»»n:r» ii» --.««: ia 'Aril :c -.tfii'.s I Taaii* '-: "Tuni-.rnn'.a uiii "^irtit
.'. u: ■ i^ : .v. J M.* <r.i-iR .i -ji-jw lailjias uxil :t J17 Tnnae'.ru.a tt-l -Jii»ni.
-..■:a- f -T^-.'. I...-. : : I'l: 7.11 *-:^i:i*a ■Jii» mirr^v* ttti u 7^.»i la-"* -Ki;:iii;ai«: -C
jjt' — --.Mrmiv:.-* :«.' * . ;.. • :iir n \ ^th*su ▼t;'
jIl- li'iTi^-" ": ^ .». V »ii-wr Mi»aft v.nii.: ii.riit :.i: ar.r *sj«r ir i^A 'cjia Z «■▼ 1 m,
I 7 *a;' ur^ r -T :•:'... '.I*' 1 ih i".:J>' la >««"'u- .r irrr*iii -,1 »*: v. ti: 4r ^O l**'r:r. ip
*. 111. -■■»«:' i-- -.:;i .:.!- fcu: rLiH^: -;ii*'ln:.aiia' aywft iu.ni-7 7; :•» jj*ii: i.; it- r.r*'iOT
ia.i: Atr V M.ii ••-risir. 'Ml »■- ii* ▼ »:u: "117 .r "Aiar ■:iii»7 ia*: ir.fii* '-■ if.*T::i'.r. ▼-:.ii;iis
iu::u.rr7 i;n: mu m-v ii:ii+r •^'- iin i*ii: r*ni.»ini":» an* :»»nr» mi»7 ▼';iui: "laj "*i»^in t
Li.i'ii;' Z ^iiii r V i'..i: ^7 -^1* iiii.— .->r :»»a.r- i.m ^ ▼-".7.:nr, i.ni ai* -!a.i: Z T^Jiiii
ju • * : ?^ ^i.* ■ •-•• r^ iih ▼'iiuii r»ai: .'. T 3*i/ .iiwur.*?:. um -jiijunir. x 31:1: ▼^.rai
*f'':;i »• 7 ■.■...-.*. 1. ■'*':'-- :-'.ii v^r* wr*nr ir.nii* -.r '^:im r.ii:.iinif j*c: laii VMir "n
'it-*T.i'- I'll ■ -: -.«i..-- ,'.- 1'-!:ji."^iii»ii. ':ii*n ':iiLr ■.11*7 iiu: jf*rr'
ji.' .'. I •"..'. ■ : -!. *!:• 1 ,:..i.c I iil'»'* v. lilt's t mi* .i-* *r» ji*r* zi imi'JL Z n-.iidrifi
-ill* h'..:. :-■! ''.1-- r !'.»: ii.i .Lfii.ra.
*'*1:i ■ r ?:,..7. 1 j\r 1' >"•.•**». r •.•*ilt*"» TIH .nini.i»r*ir.rii*r "Ai*!!.
ji.' 2 '-;--.'' : '-» 1 •.-.*i-i»«i i -^5:17 "nu.- .:i "•i*'v .c mi* -.niiMTiif. ii» m-v 3a
lAv ■■: ■ .'•..:.:i.i« r" T'li*" "F*r» .u: ^•••xu* i.n: v-^** :.HSft..i»!:j*f:. i.ii: v^-r"* T.a.«:mf
".■"^'i. 'f* I'.i: .'•'.'-'.■.*.« ". v:. - iu»n i :i-^-1.::im n. »r'. i.-.i: T*r-* :t -j.i» V17 ,r 'j*
-jr- r*"^ ' :•* ' i'-H7 T*!'*" v-"-* .n t;i»* ■•"»t^r"iM n. Z ••-*;• r--: ' Mi* ..aini.srHr.a^w
--lii. .11'" :i:u: ii •••11:: :-i -*: m i-.i--; i'l^'fiivi*':; -.. *n;i.":u* Mi»!u '. r i:ii: .lo.. -j^t
T-i/. -: r i.'ii 1'* ti.i: i«* ¥.\v ir. .i-.h**'-.!.!!. lUii ".ii-v ir* Mi*r* ir,»F r'.ii*7 ir^
nj'**: ^M- r.n* i.:i: «:iiii* -r M.iiu ".ii •* ii-r '■*i':*'--'-^: "■i«*'r j*:uM* 111 ni*7 i r wMru 7*n.r!*.
— .rni* ' :i-'v. I.*- .:■- ui-^'t :»- '-.m- -.i m«* -- -li "»ii* >' Mt* v mi-n a a.i: ". '.i* I'll
-;»:i.-^ Ml L.':i: :' ■•..'.1; i.'.«: it.* l'^'iv;c «;♦ -hii* v'J. .ui ■■» ' ■, '^m iiiir.-* ii»* lOii •^fim
I. .ii* . : . "1 - .; "» ■•-'! '•' '!:•.* TOi^ p*'' ii*r .i-:iri<* iii.r.i-"
-'•-.u »• ...II-.'- r 111 :« r --ait i.n: '.I -.1 r di.'v -,ii* -n-*"!"-* t vja* ^az»^r?i fli^:-
ji • ,.; • .«• ..■;;. - . •- w.-r- I.: ■ *r;i"'::ii' -riiiiT"!* r v^ i:!r:i '".-.ij '
•►*"::; »• "■ ... :i. It ,:.--- i.: ■ •;■; ..1 mi •**^ }*^'-*'^ ■ -•»■•' -*' "> ^ •.:i;i.'T»s usi.na
"'•'.'■.. '
■''-ijir r7i7...'i -*: -♦*".ii.- r >i.Ti.:u* T'ilh r»ririi*mu-.i ii.' 2»*ni.t*"' Ji i ?*najr7tf-
^i.i.ii r.a.: i.-.'L vi.» I iri.-.' ■i.a." iTt^iii .r *»»nu.~'.r v/in? *- i^*^ S*nur r ?*arrjw :»frtrwtjfc
"** I :: .( '1 I... '.u I »• 1-". /-I* ^Ji.:**??* r*fji;Mnr ~'. "J-a 3uirr.*r I ia-^'* ii:r. nui •"■mi* th
ji.t; .:»-■■.:
"jii; I.'- ''.Vi -■ :•-" '»"Hi;:" r * o: i.iti "^ .1; .lu * * ii. .«.:i-r ■• »ii.:ii':.->i .1 n 'Jiun ~.^ias
7;»i I.** -".::■ •...•-': i.- i ♦fi.ii.'"" "". ji.t:k. i.* -r .ii* jir*»"-»»r.4 .1 ui* I.iti-;i.'!i* '
jt ■ .- .: .■-..* .n.'.j-ii r:r.n 'zav :* i •»»':i:i: -^f ".rr^'r:. Tii* I.iii.a.ip *-ni;;;i»:7*
T'lii; .>• VI.: :- • :-'i v.i- I'ui r *- ;* ■•"ii.-.iii.- -*: ui* I.TitLunrt v.l la,-* Ui- .-lil
i»**:.ii*- _■ ".f.r i.: . ,. .■-.. V Ml-' lA'' ::: -•"-*r :.i v. '•r.v*':^ u i iiii.T.*r ir :miit«
:i:i. . *j::i.. •--■ - I :i./ ■ r\ >-:;-i ., n i.-.i: v. ■ -■: ;•-"..■**-*»
-■••:, I ■• ..»:.: '":;. ■ «■.:.;.( a ■ i;.* •'■r\.:i.' *:i.u.— '
A' ■ ". ~. : • • . •.-.•-L.: .:;i." .n-'- i.-* ■ »v..:i-':."*ii. :.iu iH' ;i.:'*' 1 »• v::ir I ^:.
"—".ii »• . 1.1: .; ■: :i.i r.'.i «▼ :i:r viu.- ■ 1: i.*- -n'-.-.n - -*: i,- i --fri.a.' '.r.i.:«:..nr
.^1 • ■- . ' . : '."". • ;i • • i.'- .:■-«* "* '.ii-!: :: ■ .if:«-* ih r.iii..i.: w'-n" vw i.*.r.«...4iii*'l.
'-'.I- .'.■■..'■' n '. ■» - V ■-. .-' :♦-. -T '.1;. 7'i" .r.- *n:iii*':-. -.m* . v.v '"■1: uiii y*-'!
V V' vi.*::* i' ii i::i- I *r.i - ■^'i v.: •/-'• J.:!'..;!.*.:* ■»*'"i lh**
.» '.■•.■ -. .:■- ■ ..-: 1'' V i.i: v.- !.-'—■,■-:+ 2 T.^i.i: ti j 'M ' v:".i mi-'ii.
r^l..' ".,;'. V •.• . V : ::■- :■■••- ." i-..-..'. • .1" .-.1- v.. -;'. - .»; jii.- .'".i- '"".ii " »" L-ii -^t
r.i* - ■ ... V ■..,.■ .■.'■- ."■■:;i.:.- ::ii: :.■-: :» 'v-: .'.i--* 7v 1 ;i:i'..'-': i.ii:
*'u:". - ,"■■- ■■ V-'*- , .. : -: I •■■'...'.li /.t- i.'.i i"i;:i-''.. " i".;* i." v xn* i'~'.-
ii- f..-' V';--- V-'- •":. , '• i.:.: «.v - -.i- i..i tv.ii-". .- v*"- v.ai:- .-■ .» .:■- I'**" in ' *
t.t*** ..: :i ■ ' ■■" . ■-■: ...:.' v -■•■- .r*;i —'-: »..! » :■..*•■: i." ■..->.• . ^r* *• p.'.-- i /.'-ti
T -'i: n. ; •..■.- : ■- " /..-"'- .: vi' i". i* ■ 1. : ^ ,-.,- i."., 1 v...-. lu- .^ ., r.
•■-"i:i '• ■•.;:.. '. '■ - '.■■ ■.. - i' '■.!- .1 -:.■ '. .ii- ".li - : .:■ "rii*;.:!!*
3i«*ii; . i:ui A.I -:.— ui : -11. 1'- -n ::-■¥ -liui ii- lai; virii j.i: V -.Hi. -ii-r-t tLi ■ -ii.-a
1944 AFFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
ago. I want to sav that Okemah has a remarkable family of little girls. When this
Bupervising official of the Government came last summer to Muzouiz, Mexico, the
Indians were very much alarmed. Okemah came to me at midnignt and called me
out. He said, "feentley, you have never lied to me, but I am afraid you are going
to now.*' I told him, "No; I had no occasion to." He said, "I am afraid you are
going to. I am afraid this man has come here to force us back to the United States."
I told him that thev could not do that.
He said: "They will get the Mexican Government behind ur."
He had heard this man talk to the Mexican officials.
He said: "When we land on the American side a marshal will be there to catch
my little girls, and I don't want that to be done."
He said: "I want you t*^ tell me."
I told him I would. "But," I said, "Okemah, what are you going to do if you
find out that the Mexican Government are going to drive you out of the country?^*
He said: "You know my children; that they are small and they sleep sound. I
will wrap Little Squaw (one of his little daughters) up in a blanket when she is asleep
and take her down to the river and put her under the water."
And he would have done as he said.
Now, gentlemen, when a man is imbued with a sentiment that would lead him to
drown his children rather than that they be brought back to the United States and
pu£ under the control of the Department, it is time that you should interfere. The
tact is that among Kickapoo Indians those that have lived in that country over in
Mexico, there is not a haif-breed to be found, nor any squaw men. Their idea is
that the Lord made the white man white and the Indian red, and that when they
interbreed the creation of the Great Spirit is being dtstroyed! They think also that
God Almighty made this land for all the people, and that no man has a right to cut
it up in pieces, to sell it.
With regard to their objection to having their children sent to school, it is about
like the objection any of you would have if a Kickapoo came and wanted to take
your children and educate them his way. If you had the same feeling or prejudice
against the Indian race that they have against the white race, you would hardly
want to do this.
I have been entirely sincere in this matter. I have been persecuted and prose-
cuted. The Government of the United States have done everything under heaven
to persecute me. For instance, I have been indicted for giving whisky to a white
man — as white as any of you. He was a man that had been adopted into an Indian
tribe and was an Indian by statute. The testimony before the grand jury was that he
invited me into a saloon, and he and I and another white man each drank a bottle of
beer. The United States attorney, Mr. Speed, indicted me for that, when no offense
had been committed apiinst the law.
Th< se agents of the Interior Department have slandered and libeled me until I was
compi'lled to bring suits in the United States district courts against them for libel and
conspiracy. I have a suit now pendine in the United States couri against Special
Agent Dixon and Superintendent Tha<'Kery for that offense. Depositions in those
cas< 8 have been tak<*n, and but for my presence here those cases would probably, or
one of them, be on trial now. One will be tried at the next term of court.
Even this inspector in Mexico teh»graphed and wrote letters to the Indian agent at
Shawnee, who caused himself to be interviewed before the press of that country, and
my wife and children have been disgraced by this.
Senator Teller. They never convicted you, Mr. Bentley, of anything, did they?
Mr. Bentley. They never have tried me. They never dared to try me.
These same parties are reporting to the Department that their failure to convict me
was because the present United States attorney, Mr. Scothom, had failed to do his
duty; when, in fact, Mr. Speed himself dismissed these indictments against me. They
tolcf Indians, to whom they knew I had never sold or given whisky, "If you do not
po before the grand jury and swear that Bentley gave you whisky, we will put you in
jail and keep you there until you do so."
Senator Sutherland. What was the reason of all this?
Mr. Bentley. To get me out of the way. so that t hey could rob the Indians.
Friends of Mr. Thackery. the man who succeeded me as a^ent. established a store
within 100 rods of the agency, and when the Indians sold their lands those traders ex-
tended credit to them in an amount equal to the amount that thev were to receive for
their land when the deeds were approved by the Department. Tnis trader's store de-
stroyed the credit of the Indians elsewhere and compelled them to pay two prices for
what theyeot. When the business community knew that the friends of the agency were
giving credit to the Indians the Indians roula not secure credit elsewhere, as they had
been able to do before. Those traders are the fellows who are principally back of this
:• •: .". ".:■» I'- m.-'Hi^i' i^ri..::*' r.i*
■•*'i;i; f 7 i-iLii. I- .■ V '"'. i.- ^.■.■1 ..*. ▼ :'•.!': :»-_i:r i>.i:'i: m;!.": h ui:!?
••*'Ul." '•I 3-.1- Tl;l." J ■^** U-'.il C -li* '.iJ'. r~jlUl.":*'
ji.* 2 I - - iT *!.." 7'".'t'** l.'r •"-; 1'^ VI«. .".a. ' * '»T »i ■•;. Zt "J* '.■".CTZlir''***
.i**r:-Ki. j'l L' " i-'-r: .1-7 J - :u.-::ii-':- .^ -ii _i .*■•:■- rjur v. : :.*-.'.. . ^--i^r I :t.\ -•r.
,ii*':: ^" ■ ".t* i^ir. ■■.cii. , .-. [ iz. • '.r.t.^.u -i "*i»* v »••■: .-i .^i* ".ni i ' .■:«"^'.-; I v .■..■:
u". :.-•■' :•-'• ■-■- V. 7'". -'■* i.'* *< v !:-»•* mo-i 1! •». ii*iiii .c vi. --.:!.'*!: :i : -r — d.'-t*
TL ■ .»■ — .'i ' '." ' "l- " i "■!.*• • ■-■-ii'i :r '..'.'-z .•-^i*;". :\.\ !■ r**T^ i.'il - »iii* '.« f:-'.*?* 7'ii* -,'-
▼■J- J. urtjLT i.ii: ii^ *r ■_-- -i-* L.":,-:!.. i/.-i •-•*; ¥.i:^i: ■•* i. ■* *. :..':• r»* -.c *ii rup.
•:i. IT *!L ••- *:t.- :•: '.■:*:.?• "-i-r .• r^ki-.-j. ■ .•* ii-- -T-sr-aT- L.11: 1* ■.•■.■ lh _i. * iiiicev iir k
r'^i: ;;i .-- .* * : -:-.
-.•*ia.- .r 7 i^^ It. ;■£ -.-▼ n.ir:! V :tLi: v^: 7a--.«-:i :-.»«: '
:*t' j: i T-.i- A . .■ ?-.-:» 11 ..-.. ..: r.'z L.. -.r -* . v i.--: * '• »" r ' ;r.i; riirj. tt*
■i-r*r '.i'fr * -A. r-.: : r j^: ^^t*. v. -.-.i.- .ii* .u.. :..* i:it. ¥■- -lj ...■: :.l * ■ y.i; tX. X^\ r
1-^ ■.».♦. --I1 >;■* :'.r ..■ ii v '..1:1 ^ v* .la*: irr "uii* *:t.»:;-i* -a.'! ■".'::;•■*• t-i --Ji 11. c:-::* ut'
7':'^-«^ I.ii:-:!.':.* i *■ " .i* '■ ■■ v i.-.ii i-ir ir.'i ■.. ■■." m-t^ _*■• ■ i-rr: k.:*:±. izti
i*."» izi* ii*r:'*c:* 7'i-'i v .»...: ■»* i.: -i*:!. ■ i i ■c ■ »• -..ti:.
1 1:1 * ■ "Hit I-'- •■;»^ii . .f "^' .-** ;►- ;■■* 7'i-?. i.*r ■ *r .^ ji.'-^:_i'-: izr, Z i^"*
' 111 ■ ".': L* ▼- _ L' [ -i.! ■ :■- .' :•:. .■ •: . :■▼ vi-- .. v. r- ut.:.i. *^i* I'*':)i.'*:-
lii*':- v^_ *:L ■ -.u,.- ■-.• I.-* : ".i" :■ 4- • «: ."«• '-iiir* ..i .- i.-* : -..ij: ■ . y.ir * . = *r
■.: * iM ▼■.._ ■.■-■- i- i. . ..•.:•- 2*". :■ v ..•■: ■ jr r ■..:j ". : i*.~j._.".t
▼ If*-, ii- • -'-'..V.*: V . ■■ ;:* ■.•..- .1 .ii* .'*!L^ :.' •:.- : t-r. *-: ".•■.•il "j.<* j* _iii. -.^i uil
ii.'.i.*' r^l-*. li-:'*': -•': — • *.iT, ". . V_:lA r L .■ ; M-' =*--u~ •:.
-H -1 ...- 7--'U*i..-, '
■:»'''.:i. !• 7 ■-..:.•. t .. i-r :■ f. :a. .:j,." '
ji • .'. = •". L : •..■ *i r. ..-.li?*;? .1.* ■ i;-.!* -Ill r ■ -^.r " - -: -m.--»s.
:■:-■• .'.- : i~. . -v-" :■- ..:•. .. :.♦ v--- '■'■. . - •- - - \ut^.''^ - : r^* ^v *
-.:<*■-• .-L.'v -1 .- ■ i . - -i. •.:!.. .:.•- .Li-^-* !..:■. . » V i. . ■ . !}.!i. 7'.:i* _.■_»: ai."..*
..I* J.' '■ : *■: I ■ :.i. . i v l ."..i.i-- .- -.- 7 - :. 7''.- .^ - . ■■. . -•■.: : v* v .c • za ■
i.: . ".^ . '- . . I.' V - • : 7:-! .'.'i:!.: v i- ^r :■ v .i-'--* v. 1 v.i* a,^j* -:
--"..• •• - "■■. ■: ": . " ■. :. ::.•' vi.-.;. -^*=ii ■ -■.- -i. i. ■ . . ii^ ". -. -: -r.i:.^*
jij / ■. ■■■. i • 7 - •i.iV' ..■:■—- ■;--■* ▼^_ ■*- •■...-. •- : : I" ■ ■:!•* ■:ii'c
i.M I.:- ■'••••.-' \ .■ -.1 i .4.-. - ..: : - : ;»- :.•■ •: - . . l .; •■ . ..." .-•--..:: viiTii
jL,' .- ■: "..LZ •-". ' L^ V".,r<* . i-l.
Z** ■::k.-' . - ■ :' ": : :.'-. L- ■.-.l." - . .t .• v ; ; . :-'
'^"..\. •''.':...■. i ". '.- . •• -i.- -:; :..." :.• ■- :• ^ ■ . . .^ .■ -.. v l* -■ j:
»r.i- .1, ■ ... ■• .- • . . • ■
jl.' . ^ . i - . • \ '• • : T ' :;l V ■ --■■ , . • . ■ - ■ , I .
r ■' -:: .• i_. V • . V - ^ : • v ■ . . i- > . . : v . . •
-■■ : ■ ■ . :- . ■ • ".■.■■•- V ..-.; - .. - tr -i." >*r . - ■ . .*-
V :..-. ■ : .. ■. •- . . - .- : V ■■•. -..■;■.▼
1946 APFAIBS OF THB MEZIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator Dubois. What you want ia that this $33,000 of Indian money be paid over
to them?
Mr. Bbntlet. Yes; made payable to them.
Senator Dubois. Then you want these seven sales to stand?
iSi, Bbntlet. Yes.
Senator Dubois. In addition to that you want authority given to the Kickapoo
Indians to sell their other land that they have in Oklahoma?
Senator Tbixbr. To lease it?
iHi. Bbntlbt. Yes, if that is the judgment of this committee.
Senator Dubois. These Indians are all in Mexico now?
Mr. Bentlby. Yes: that is, what is known at the ** Kicking" Indians.
Senator Dubois. The ''Kicking" Kickapoos?
iHi, Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator Dubois. Now, on the other hand, the Department wants us to repeal the act
we passed last, authorizing those seven Indians to sell the land. • They want to set
aside that sale.
Mr. Bentlby. Yes; thev want you to repeal the law.
Senator Dubois. And tney do not want us to allow the other ** Kicking " Kickapooe
sell their land.
Mr. Bbntlby. Nor to pay them their lease money.
Senator Dubois. And you want us to make them pay it?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes.
• Senator Dubois. And you claim that if your suggestions are carried out the Kicka-
poos can be made self-sustaining, happy, and prosperous?
Mr. Bbntlby. Yes.
Senator Dubois. Now, if we disregard your su^estion and adopt that of the Grovem-
ment, what position does it leave those Indians m?
yii, Bbntlby. It leaves us to fight a lawsuit.
Senator Dubois. But how will the Indians be situated if we undo what we did last
autumn?
Mr. Bbntlby. We will be in this position: We have taken all the money we had
and put it into Mexican lands, expecting to meet the deferred payments from those
seven allotments, and we will lose what we have paid.
Senator Dubois. The Indians will lose the Mexican land?
Mr. Bentlby. Yes.
Senator McCumber. How much have they paid on these lands?
Mr. Bentley. The lands in Mexico?
Senator McCuMBBR. Yes.
Mr. Bentlby. We have paid about $15,000 so far.
Senator Sutherland. They could not take back the Oklahoma lands without reim-
bursine the purchasers for the amount they have paid?
Mr. Bbntlby. The title has passed, and the Indians would have to meet expensive
litigation.
Senator Dubois. I am wondering what will happen if we reverse our programme.
We apparently have started out by letting them go to Mexico.
Mr. Bentley. The Commissioner of the General Land Oflice said that this was an
act in prsesenti, and that the patents would only be a further evidence of title, and he
said he Raw no reason why those patents shoula not issue.
Now, if Congress shoulci repeal the law, we would have to employ expensive counsel.
It has been expensive already. I employed and I have paid an attorney to come
here and make formal application for the patents. The Department has compelled
me to expend this Indian money; but I did my duty as I saw it and know it, and I
hope this committee will not put us in any such position as the Department wishes.
Senator McCumber. Has the Government ever made any inspection of the Mex-
ican purchases to see what kind of land or what value of land they got?
Mr. Bentley. No. WTien the officer was sent there last summer, we had not been
able to acquire any land at that time. We have been able only very recently to
acquire land. We could not find any tract of land that was within our means, ana the
man who was sent to investigate the matter is my vicious personal enemy.
Senator Teller. Who is that?
Mr. Bentley. Charles H. Dixon.
Senator Teller. That is the man you are suing for slander?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; Mr. Dixon reports to the Department that I hampered him
in his investigation. After they haa detained me for four days in the court-house in
Mexico, claiming that I was influencing the Indians (though I consented to be de-
tained) the presidente came to me and said that this roan said he could not get the
testimony oi the Indians while I was there. I waited four days and told the presi-
i/ente that I had no objection to their getting the facts. I callea the Indians together
AFT Aims or XBE miJTCAll MMCKAFOO miAS9L 1947
mad trM ih^em ikM. liber ^oM tcfl ham what ^ej \Mnew. Then m dk«e <
Emeii sou 9fe2d lajat ^ Idid tansd In land #i«r i» iK^ ik Oik^ I •
JKssprer lEHZki 5<:r 32aaa ii Jfexaeoc
t^ CiTigirwas- His csj {4i«r a««Li«r flf tfe canmaes^fnt mir ^MsfiKifis v> Mk?
'OUb 'JOjKe *Sjd ^ "Oik *±aB3L 3i VJSiaSJf^ I& * IC!V J«flK» mrjR- lib«r -dkj w£S JRrTPf: viifta
1^ 12S^ wz^ *r*ac ZL is«*fiL ji£arJhs2<t^. mmd M ^bej caa, ijs^jmr fA tfeior ^aaidb ia'jv- loitir
'^cfR: '^isj -v^HuIi ijirxwr ji hrjgut ^2jtvc: iKnif s£i«r iriif' H^i'TiacTif vi!3 icn^ aicnfhizir "vlift
H lA is Vj Zfumaut jk Jasx^ifffl prjfvitirujff. w^xit *yj&i^«fak •oot not ynrwaai ijoxi te
1 vil: itSL UK: irr'x ^ iLs; crmmrirraite. I ««: lilsu ibt: nsnift -q^ ^iriaa » ksisvm i
'Of!: ^ IVjigj^MUTT*-"^ iiLk'k3f$«!«» ■ vjoaoo]^ ^iua^ wisk. wjott ^ji ix«»aL. y^ ^jaut u^jg^: €k
tax. ± h iisanii^ m mxrM6^ iIkb.
Saaoior Italmm^ Im t^js aoc ■»&» wm. Mwil 9«p«t te &cr Gwaoouaa vi«A pHi
Mr. Brvmarr. Y^s: I amdfr ds««r flnoal R^evlc. Mj fsA r^3ti wm m lSS0t aad
vut lam. 2L IWO. I idro» Ikr bj ictt rtfwi. I liuzyL.
Mr BijTT^irr- T*a^ «r. I iarrt M t2u«l
*lltjsn3r J BryTTLTT Eifc .
yat r-iCi»r 'uiA.-: ^ Mr^xi-jjc Tj^sjos^^j iTi'TttT OaD*r^tfct, idtf Kfij^iiiifi V, jn;. J.r liaawll,
junr i iljvjijb^x JzjtuiGi. rrizi^ zt^ar Kirt'Sat^jc* T'.nn. ii 3t*iacr^. id* isfc^trr -iiftrd said
idiC KZT-.iinitiiiizs.- li^c jttjf -uiisit *i^ ;te'S'n&c:a^»» ikoA wi^ tfxratt Vj> iizL v^islkd be
iH- 22i:e»: fetTihir-up^ou* :.*:fcr. ii*t jciz::=sr7 i»t aeinr rK«T*« imci "S* Uiis^d SaM;
'Jijjir,. «it:>--l»i •«*: :u-,«i ?»^"t* i*»r vjiii srx r^ri^T* jcy roi irjia i» «cjc* ii H^jotaf;
' I2. r»:9L J T-.i;. Iff* hir^s^^z y;ig.. ^ t«mif 'jd iii»»: fiUiruffii«*!t3t sdidt 1/y v:ii. a ▼'.wLid
j;knri«tf' •»ruur rz.i.'Tn itf 'jli^ hn tjz. •jicji'i -ji Aiu«^!iv^ fe:dm.-ri*r Zi-.-iji.sii^
* Tilt* *Ij'.Jii*r»: I-t-Az.* kTf: t.v,.c^l :!.»'. tvv bttz.!* *a»:ii ia^-r:!^ ::i4 '.'vr. 'iijri oift
■ ?^j^*siHrr*^ lii,! jl.t:r.--;f ilj.:£iyi:»j*. "flit*- ' Itir-rTfr" iasitd :::ci*ru.-::.'.i«rg iit-.r* "..^la
"i*rj'X V :^f^i4 11*^ i£.*3:j-jiz. ?lj'-dni^r. iiuaci* c.€ Ora.ti'i7;A ▼•r pn»:r^'ji^7 *tiJ-
1948 APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
ber and the abundance of game with whidi their reserves abounded furnished their
meat and lard, the 'squaw patches' their cereal food, and the increase of their then
large herds of ponies Yieldea them a revenue sufficient to purchase their other limited
necessities. Thus, within the seclusion of their own broad domain, these wild blanket
Indians lived in contentment, without labor, and as they believed the 'Great Spirit'
had ordained.
** Most of them left the State of Kansas in 1863 to avoid allotment, against which
they had fought all their lives. They never did agree to take allotments and sell their
surplus lands, and when thirty years later the allotting af^ent came to allot them they
aaia : * We have not agreed to mis, ' and a considerable majority to avoid being allotted
moved in a body to Deep Form Valley, a point now known as Wellston, about 10 miles
north of the lands which were later forcibly allotted to them.
''This enterprising allotting agent then established a store at a central point on the
reservation, where the minority band were given credit to the amount of their surplus •
land mone;^ ($211), which the agent was to pay them later. They moved to this store,
around whicn they went into permanent quarters, and here in idleness and dissipa-
tion they squandered their surplus land money, and having accepted their surplus
land money and allotments they became known as the 'Progressive' Kickapoos. The
majority band refused credit at this store and to take the surplus land money and to
have anything whatever to do with the matter of allotment, and became known as
* Kicking Kickapoos. ' "
Mr. Bentley. That money I am reading about now is the money in the Treasury.
The Indians refused to accept that monev.
''In May, 1895, the surplus Kickapoo lands were thrown open to white settlement.
Neither band of the Kickapoos was m any wav prepared to meet this new condition.
The white settlers soon stole or robbed them of most of their property. They became
the ready prey of dishonest deputy United States marshals, who, upon false charges of
selling whisky arrested and hauled them to the Federal jail by the wagonload. l.ater
an effort was made bv the agent in charge to put their children in school. This the
parents resisted, and for such resistance were maimed and beaten by the brutal deputy
marshals, who then arrested them for resisting United States officers 'in the discharge
of their duty.' Thus persecute and harrassed by the apparantly inhuman policy of
the Government toward them they became so distrustful of the white man and his
Government that they turned their backs to the agents who were sent to confer with
tiiem.
"Huddled together in poverty and want, suffering that misery which could be bom
only of such conditions as environed them, 1 found them on Deep Fork, Oklahoma,
occupying lands set apart for school purposes. The Territory had leased these lands
and the lessees were demanding possession, and all efforts on part of the Territorial
officials and the agent in charge to remove them had been unavailing. The agent had
asked the use of the military to remove them. By purely persuasive means I suc-
ceeded iu moving them to tneir allotted lands in the North Canadian Valley.
"At that time but two of them s]>oke any English, and that very imperfectly. None
could read or write, or had ever attended scnool. But one of them wore citizens'
clothes, and he only in part. To-day 50 of them can speak EnsHsh enough for
ordinary business intercourse; 20 can read and write; 19 are m school by their free and
full consent; they have put 350 acres of their individual lands in the thorough state
of cultivation, and have 3,500 acres under substantial barbed-wire fence.
"During the year 1897 they earned and derived |6,240 from sources from which,
prior to my appointment, they had never earned or derived one penny. During the
year ending June 30, 1899, they erected more tlian 6,000 rods of standard barbed-wire
fence, ^boed and broke 73 acres of new land, and made many other valuable and
lasting improvements on their allotments; cut, baled, and sold 2ol tons of hay, drilled
wells aggregating 224 feet, cut and sold 450 cords of stove wood, prepared for use and
hauled tnelum ber and assisted in erectine 7 permanent dwelling houses.
"The habit of labor is well and thoroughly established. The able-bo<iied hea<is of
ftimilies have almost without exception ^ne upon and improved their individual
lands where it has been possible to provide them with the necessary equipments.
Some families have fine orchards growing, and th<ir fields range from 10 to Ab acres
per family, some hf^ads of families having put the allotments of the entire family
under one inclowure.
" It is due these Kickapoos to say that they are honest in their efforts for self-support.
Perfect harmony has existed between all the Indians and myself from the beginning,
to which fact can be attributed the high degree of progress attained by them, the
system of reaching which was inaugurated by persuasive means. Force is the most
repulsive of all things to the Kickapoo mind. It is against both his religion and
nature, and no sood has ever been or ever will be acccomplished by ita use.
''At the time I took charge of these Indians, a most deadly and awful enmity existed
AITAIIS €M TH£ MZHCASr KICKAPOO m»A3rSi. 1949
ci^ir '.til*- :t ^&i»- Eir^kj^<c» Bos fc*»ttr:-cH5- ki«23Bii«s«l visk k» »linaii*--s2_ Ts^ bsitf^ df
^i»- -ukl "ii*»- iz±r::i- iiiii '-!»*■ '.rpbiaff isr* isi'^ Bf*aiK- us- r»lB*fii»»: wki^j*- ikfrn^r?. wfe:- pBT
wicar.iii: Ixkzifi •»r<':a'ri»r 'il^ iMpiKraiLWLr. ws iica£>4^ n^^ z»5 szl *E2«iiI.2L«i£ *o€ tsbfrm^ This
•^*s;nL 3Z^. ♦I itk'iTinr 'i>rti ssir*- rJs:is taau*-- I^smar 'tii^ potifi T«rai" tifc*er»- at*** s^^^rtL •^ire:
aiiir*- h'-T^Ji Tiratr ir^^Lra- tail f:?uoi tjlm cok- I B»?»*iaTE & apcri iii ri' my m. '.h^ ^xis/^.
r>-:-^-^qr -^^ -..u«r. j-^iU' lii -^iZi^rfz^siirfU: hM '.♦ti*^ mibirr El 5^ "irsT ^ 3ii*<ii*'.al ir««afr-
B**f»ra A niwin.^ .c yz^/^^. ^sASLSi^fUiT. hmk'iXisz ofc«WT»i^ Tw»*tt:rT-oisi^ pcr,«e^"a3a5B» ai^r »S
unDihi*?' 4 !ia.T- tpHJ-!! *#=-!ii: ^^ 3a«»- p*'«tS4*«^!isa*ir7' ao^ 17 ESiiflctiai»r2£4 ««*• iiy*" p»»iii-iai^
'liiin -^iC -Jif*- "jTf'rir. "V:*:*! Sccris ' i2i»i 1 ri3:r3»- *xasi^dtfr. •»iij»r»- •£!*■ rrA-.d -will za vfWhS'^iA
" Tb^ r^iT 7iii '-:i>-it :c A'.rt*^^"'^ i^cawTii^i?: IrttBairff k*- 211 aaT^hrrir ci25 a aBnffl^nj&ry
ai:r u:r«r9f*^i -^^:r uj:aii»^!ir»i. i^i I *i> ir^c TknLk tbfry ^-j-^r w^ a*'j»p« i^hmil- T1h»'
rrLiru-.c ii» '^ XTror. larrjrr Tb^j i»^[iirT-* liisK sa*»- *Anii b»Tik:nffi5 Zii zh^ <yr»flS ^g«c*»
i^ji -Jiik-- t::w 1u*» 2i: Hi-r* nirj: *.*: •^.tis s ^rp *a»i iftH k skxa ii^ wwtii hsw* qg srM t&e
" Wlit^a -.i>r VcATn*^^ ▼*f»- aEnn^fL wxs^ ««&s j^cacs *ff'^- t&ii hsad 1^ t&ra 1
Tiimn^./iC i*Tiiia inii ij-.»n^« izii **^?Tifrti wh(*Sft t&t^ Br:w lirr*, fcitt!aBsai*- ihn^y saiju _
"Ji*rr=r Tit^^tr j^zsii* xTrr j:»*:tr»Hi rn •If'eT'rfiKEii OcisiBtr. Oklsk. . i^'.Tur £iEr.M^ Rirr*r Sfid
r.4 Q-;-ii-.A-r-*rf». I: -w-ii* y.r:i.' Cy iZi.rzrfi z>i '.hirTs^ assil k Z2. sn irkj sinsiHi Vj r.B»Kr wart,
T!i** I'uIi^T^ tr-rr m^r:-^ i-iit .nr^rfi.-if^ laLSjuiUj.. Th^ T^icKiiiis ar«r sif:8nly mizji ^rTI*
-jii^uf *r.:rx- :'. ^rr-^z. liirir liJi.i* tt.:! Xi -Jinri**. ir»:£(Hi 5aj*ir isij. s-.Ci ia»rm. irki^ET.
*an iikii ij^^'- '.:j^xrL :3. xcifTAZj: •y.rL''t«*- T^ -■i»':atzii rar.^ Ib&s b«**^iL a k« :t^is Brats: ^
r^anilj ram "ai»^i- '.'f^i wzz^*'xr^
jr^.^-r v.«,«i T,- niL-^x^r.. T!iir7 u'r: j.« o^:-^! X t. Tt*g fr:ci zij 5«:»s: :t ^r^rr, *nii ifiiiailfti
T-. r-"^' -.i**^! "Jill* ^•^r'T.Tia.I i-:r»#»tLr:^:n "iiac will b<t- Si*r.«aHBr7 s: zndijr.i^. iL^il fe»
ziiiir l:lj z-i^mt"-^ hZii ir:c»rrl7 v. 'ak.* ra^s*- ^r ;ii* '»»^rk sat tSls itSi!^. I sifjiii is
j^ii*^ lafi r .0^ L^-rx. Tir^ i>i.p~iiir!i-i :•:' Inatfe zii:titrr7 iZii liitr ksifi3jr it i;£2iiB 21 si^ T^eoshl
■ THftTfir^g T-.rL viiit -^ I^r^anziKiL^ iTir la^ L.i*=^u trsoccs wtiii I i*-n*r r»i-j^v^
I lai-
*"^>ediZ4 Irii&Air^uuf wad bk&au .
1950 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Bentlbt. From what I have read the membeis of the committee can underBtand
the circumstancee that lead up to the Indians ^inff to Mexico,
rhe Chairman. How many of the " ProcreeBive " Kickapooe
The Chairman. How many of the " ProcreeBive " Kickapooe are there?
Mr. Bentlbt. I think there are about 28 of them.
Senator Teller. They are still in Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; three -or four of them are in Washington at the present time. I
understand that the agent has brought them here to protest against the others being
permitted to remain in Mexico.
Senator Gamble. Are there any other of the ''Kicking" Kickapooe down there in
Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentley. I do not think there are. If there are any, they are some that are
waiting there for their lease money, or who will go to Mexico as soon as they can get .
away.
Senator Teller. Where is the Indian who was with you here the other day?
Mr. Bentley. He is out here in the corridor.
Senator Teller. He met me the other day and told me that he had come here to get
the money that was due him.
Mr. Bentley. I want to say to the committee that Mr. Dixon, in his report to the
Department save that this man to whom Senator Teller now refers (Johnny. Mine) is an
ignorant and filthy Indian, who can speak only half a dozen words of English, and is
incompetent to interpret. And while you did not hear him talk much yesterday, yet
he can understand anything that anybody says, and can tell it well in his own language.
T&king this as a sample of Mr. Dixon's statements you can see what they are worth.
UNirBD States Senate, March 24, 1906.
Statement of Frank A. Thackbry.
The Chairman. State your occupation.
Mr. Thackery. I am superintendent and special disbursing agent under the Inte-
rior Department at Shawnee, Okla.
The Chairman. How Ions have you been there?
Mr. Thackery. I assumed charge at Shawnee the 1st day of October, 1901.
The Chairman. Do you know about these allotments we have had under con-
sideration?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
The Chairman. Do you know how many of them have been disposed of?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir; I do not. That is, I do not know how manv of them have
been sold a second time. I have heard. I know they have changed hands, three of
them at least; two spoken of by Mr. E^erman and the allotment of Noten.
The Chairman. Does the Noten allotment adjoin the city?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir.
The Chairman. How far is it from the city?
Mr. Thackery. It is about 20 miles away. It is the only one that is not near by
the city.
The Chairman. Who bought that?
Mr. Thackery. It was first bought from the allottee by a Mr. Evarest. The records
of the reconler's office of the county in which the property is located showed that he
first secured a deed from the Indians, and it was transferred, I think, from him to
Mr. Bentley, and from Mr. Bentley to Mr. Maxey, and from Mr. Maxey to a Mr.
Rampier.
Senator Teller. Is he living on it?
Mr. Thackery. He is living near by. He has a contract with Maxey showing
that he has paid $500 down, and that the balance is to be paid when he gets title,
and if he fails to get title the $500 is to be returned to him with 10 per cent interest.
The Chairman. Do you know what that sold for, other than what the record shows?
Mr. Thackery. No, 'sir.
The Chairman. What does the record show, do you know?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir; I do not remember. We made a report of it, showing
what the county recorder's office showed, but I do not remember what that was.
Senator Teller. WTien you say "we," whom do you mean — Mr. Dixon?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. That is contained in Mr. Dixon*s report, then?
Mr. Thackery. I presume so. I never saw his report. I know he inquired about
it, and asked me to secure a certified copy of the aeed for him from the recorder's
office, and I remember having done that.
Senator McC UMBER. Do you know anything about the bona fides of the trans-
actions?
wimciw muxjooo nmAx^ 19S1
faaoe aenei i^fOL -irBf a iur pn^« fer live iisii^f
Saiiir..'xlfi.:vl^£]fZ3L. ^irrrf- if liVc wTHriniimiT nllltoBmfli EK^Tsnioiovr-iristtdaftiRM
lib:. TaLf>ro^rr^ 7^ 5fict£ m JKcjofdeA domvfMML if IflBEoeiiter 'DGEsnoif.
Ife. T^Armrr. T^t.
Xr. Taifcrrjirr . Ix ixrr c^izuol it 3f -iPaD^ fWSML
Semaa- lfi.c!C?noiiiL Viae £:rr-« n la jacnatTLlKr -nJh» tf fSf'MP?
Smaaor TT7;r.,rT. Tiac js ^' aTS*?
]&. TTfcCEiaT T-tt. H^ifr tJQ'.iQsxmit B^aaQaair 3S <iid I3ar 3iar& Ji <ciot %inr tw^ wkMt
wSit txHr M b'TTsf TsxuKmiKr *»» inif' iu0i«eK ladder i^r«e ]n«Ea 1^ ior ^OJfTIf ij afiivF'
hmi&'j^ TiLiLEt- Ti viiinL did vtaa. \i^3Dg — •flit €r:T:»ermii«iir?
Mr. i^xifTLXT- Mr Ii(^ ±3C sm^ s iukl mmiBd f^r:iiBn» « Eariai^i^b. '■n tfiaim ift
lift FTiidi'jir^t TPOi: jiiiflr^iLid S3V.U(Ki vc ▼lac^Tner jc -wat
Mr T^ELt^nzcrT. "H"* d: ntn tnmr- bm THite- Mr. Itxbf f vcfskm wt froi *.t#OTfl (^SL^ML
hms&'x Mc'Cinana.- Anc Triit «j ii vb* "irani ^If.lW^
ICr . TjEj^nxirr Tiits vitf "lait twi iJiiiLiiiBins I 'r't.^ "r i£ -^liBnai jcud iis 'iddib.
heax&vp M:iCtxi-i.i. Ypl «kt iSustt -wss ww^ f?«M«air?
Mr TsLfxTxixT y«.
Senir.x M:i'.tk3:Z2. 'Bixsi -rv iStt xi«r lifltinnimii i^ofi -icMi sulid m 'CaxxD«3aiiii wiSk
&«ittr-ar MiiCtiq-eil "Siiiifii vi* laaB vntii*
Mr TiAmarr 1l nrr oninat n -ww iponi df^iW*.
Seijir.:r M:v:txj 12. Tlac je. astagfijig l© ynnr wcrnachp?
Mr rijxrrxLT Yst
^miir.:r MX tkxxo. A^f if -i^ vwt wtat mM isr 1^;9Wl. it iw scflfl piiEfttj ijmil/
far liii* Ttju* vbt n ii'.n *-
JCr T^LfxrrufT i «. I "limi tmbp ^Bixd]fizifflL. "Sif- 3j»in«t TinpoiBiQe f*tmjinj_
jjuii ar hcr*ftti w ptj nosshr jst vlL TjjtiKr «» iT^a sue iisinliffj.
snjuinn I'liaiia^ vitf v. t»!'.?^*t»^
Mr 7:zLi.rrj3rr T^ dfffrc a C'^iaimiat iftiT«vpfd f&i9W. » I wawmkm^ wsA -^bit «f
iitf -r:5» ^ .X»! 'rT:i.;r:Tir 111 .IKK' i-j li* Tvit
Seiur-:r 3^:^ . T■Ja^EI- I*: jm: szi-yw viistMr or ntn "^kirr wvn^ fcnnaJhr ^5> a«oari« I&0
mETTrBT I tn. a*ii *-: it^L^p-t^ '^hsi "Li*ej "ciidsEJBLifaid i^qk lajffj uper* izsidixi^ 12l» JOeiiS iar
mftffl^ iEiiC n M*tj":
-**nitr.r >f :'T —nil. Sin vw n ii:t: liiiia: ti»P7' "¥'«!» firrrrih' ^T bsT^ lii*- Isaii wJA
tilt *JL»*"_ "^'H-""' »**r. "ill* ruiittf r»«'.r»i:'^ ttt frun. n ior iiuiit ix Mtxi^r^?
it_' 7 F i_:Tri T I j: n.n Jl1i'j*w
•>*iu.-.:r M:^' ttti 11. Y^l viruaf ikii bbj lias 'due -nf tkk ii« TTidfrHasTtfrrng?
>tr Ztx^ttivt >':
K> 7 j-t TUT 3i^ I»:x:ti'i:ui int zAsiZ titfn- ixhi vir.-fifC li lias fififrnt brihrf- ism.
*>«it-:r 7r.i^xx ^ 'ii'. iibt -wsTLdi**! i: lirtig?
Mr 7zii_m-iT Th-jb*: lii: xr.tf ixul
Mr 2 Ty-r.rr Ti^ 7^z-:vri :t it: I'lSLTtL. ▼fc triri: -life ttffizmnrx. Ari^^ *&£: lisj
ian^ rv»i-: ^t B^nii* 111:711*7- tjit v*t^ v. rfr-Bn^ lift "taJEii^* ix "ttyrit a. Mf-xurr^
Ssiifci'.r 7 TT.r.ri. If Liii:: i«s;iaii:Ti-j iiart*
Mr 1 rfTTLiTT Z; « 11 nil* r»cjri koc iiHCt 17 li* £i»t'jr«LKj.
£iBittr*:ir 7Tr.r.TT-^ T'sr.^-atT'J
M; i iifiTLXT i *». fi^
1952 AFEAIBS OF THE MEXIGAK RIOKAPOO IKDIAI^S.
Senator McCuhbbr. If the Indums were to get finally $39,000 for those pieces,
would you say that they were getting practically all it was worth?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. As to the allotment of Wahnahkethehah — ^what do you know
of that?
Mr. Thackert. It is the best allotment of the set.
Senator McCumber. Wliere does it lie and what is it worth?
Mr. Thackery. It lies endwise against the city.
Senator McCumber. How many acres are there?
Mr. Thackery. Eighty acres.
Senator McCumber. What is it worth?
Mr. Thackery. You mean my opinion of its value?
Senator McCumber. Yes.
Mr. Thackery. It is worth $50,000.
Senator McCumber. For cash?
Mr. Thackery. I think it would bring that amount as we are selling Indian lands.
Senator McCumber. It would bring that also if changed into lots and sold?
Mr. Thackery. Yes: because of ita value for town-site purposes.
Mr. Bentley. Please ask the gentleman what the Government did sell the adjoining
80 acres for?
Mr. Thackery. We sold the allotment lying directly south of this, belonging to
Ke^quahuck, three years ago for $28,300. The men who bought that piece sold it;
and I am reliably informed, 1 know, in ftict, that they more than doubled their money
above all expense.
Senator McCumber. After dividing it into lots?
Mr. Thackery. Yes. They had tne street-car line run out, making a loop.
Senator McCumber. That would add considerably to the value?
Mr. Thackery. Yes. The piece to the north is a much prettier piece for town
purposes.
Senator McCumber. Is there a street-railway service?
Mr. Thackery. No; there is none on it.
Senator McCumber. Would not that make a vast difference in the value of lots or
of land?
Mr. Thackery. Of course it increased the value of the piece south of it. It would
increase the value of any piece of land just next to it. The car line runs out about
300 yards parallel with the south line of this particular 80 acies, and then drops
down and comes back.aeain. It makes a loop.
Senator McCumber. Well, you place that at $50,000?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator McCumber. Do you know what it sold for?
Mr. Thackery. The records at the county recorder's office show that it sold for
$10,000.
Senator McCumber. Do you know what it was finally sold for?
Mr. Thackery. No.
Senator McCumber. Have you had any information that it was resold for a greater
sum than that by the person holding it in trust?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir; I have not heard of any proposed sale of that. It is leased.
There is a lessee on it.
Senator McCumber. Did you hear of the proposed sale of the other piece of which
you were speaking, of that which originally belonged to Okemah and his wife?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. Did you hear what that was sold for?
Mr. Thackery. Mr. E^erman told me at the time Mr. Dixon was at Shawnee
what they had paid for it.
Senator McCumber. He told you $39,000?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. \Miat was that piece sold for, of Wahnahkethehah 's?
Mr. Thackery. It has not been sold.
Senator McCumber. Do you know about the Noten {Hece of land?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. How many acres are there in that?
Mr. Thackery. Eighty.
Sdnator McCumber. Where is it situated?
Mr. Thackery. About 20 miles northwest of Shawnee, near the town of McLoud.
Senator McCumber. WTiat is that worth?
Mr. Thackery. About $3,500.
Senator Teller. How much an acre do you figure it, at that price?
AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1953
Mr. Thackert. It would be about $43 or $44 an acre. We are selliDg that land,
a good deal of it, along at about that price; some of it brings $50 an acre.
Senator McCumber. Do you know what that was sold for?
Mr. Thackert. No; I do not know what the original deed showed. I do not
remember.
Senator McCumber. Nor what it finally sold for?
Mr. Thackery. Mr. Ramsier was to pay, I think, $3,000; I am not sure.
Senator McCumber. Three thousana dollars would be a reasonable price?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. Then we have the allotment of Tahpahthea. Do you know
about that piece of land?
Mr. Thackery. I know where it is located, but I can not describe the land. It is
located about a mile west of Shawnee.
Senator McCumber. What is it worth?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know. I do not know whether it is cut up by creeks or
whether it is level. That would have a great deal to do with its value.
Senator McCumber. So you can not pass a very accurate opinion as to the value of it?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir.
Senator McCumber. Here is the allotment of Shuckequa. Do you know where
his or her land is situated?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. Where?
lii. Thackery. It is north of Shawnee and just across the road running on the
west side of the town. The town is laid out up to that land, but I do not think it is
incorporated out so far.
Senator McCumber. What is it worth?
Mr. Thackery. It is worth $6,000
Senator McCumber. How far out of town do you say it is?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know just where the northern corporation line is.
Senator McCumber. You can estimate.
ifr. Thackery. It is about a mile north and just across the line west of the part of
the city that is well built up. It is about a mile and a half from the center of the city.
Senator McCumber. This other place, you say, is worth $50,000. How far from
the center of the city?
Mr. Thackery. It is about a half mile from the center of the city — from the post-
office.
Senator McCumber. Are you acquainted with the allotments of Neconopit?
Mr. Thackery. I am acquainted with the Indian. I do not know about the land.
Senator McCumber. Nor where they are?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; I know where they are. Within a mile of the city limits;
but just the character of the lands of these two Indians I do not know.
Senator McCumber. What would the lands be worth, in your opinion?
Mr. Thackery. They ought to be worth $4,000 apiece. If they lie level and are
well adapted for farming purposes they ought to "be worth $6,000.
Senator Teller. That is $75 an acre.
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Mr. Bentley. I ask if the railroad does not run through it, and if the land is not
very badly broken and cut up, and if you do not know that?
Mr. Thackery. No; I do not know it. I do not know the condition of those two
allotments; I never have gone over them carefully. If they are rough and much
cut up it would reduce the value very much. If they are level and in good condi-
tion for farming purposes they would be worth $6,000.
Senator McCumber. How many Kickapoo Indians are there?
Mr. Thackery. About one hundred remaining in Oklahoma.
Senator McCumber. How many have gone away the last two or three years?
Mr. Thackery. Close to two hundred.
Senator McCumber. They went to Mexico?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator McCumber. Have you heard any complaint directly from any of those
who went to Mexico as to how they were living or their condition there?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir.
Senator McCumber. Have you heard of any of them that were desirous to get back?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McCumber. How many?
Mr. Thackery. There were perhaps 20 or 30 of the young members of the tribe.
Senator McCumber. Did they say why they wanted to get back?
1954 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN RIGKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Thackert. I do not know that they gave any definite reason. They said thev
wanted to come back. They wanted to live in Oklahoma. I think it was as much
that Uiey could not raise crops, or something of that kind.
Senator McGumber. How did they come to refer to you or send you word that they
wanted to come back?
Mr. Thackeby. They told me, a number of them, when I went down there.
Senator McCumbbr. You went down there?
Mr. Thackert. Yes; I made payments there last January.
Senator McCumbeb. What payments?
Mr. Thackery. Lease money and deed money.
Senator McCumbeb. Are you holding any of the lease money now?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator McCumbeb. Under instructions of the Department, I suppose?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. How much?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know how much. That matter goes through one of our
clerks, and I really do not know. There are three or four semiannual payments
due some of the Indians. They were originally held out because of an ordVr that
we should not pay until the leases should be approved by the Secretary. Prior to
that we were making pavmcnts prior to the approval.
Senator McCumber. Are you aware of the reasons that the Secretary has for not
paying them?
Mr. Thackery. No; there was no reason eiven me. There is nothing stated in
my instructions except that I was to withhold payment until fiirther orders.
Senator McCumbeb. You do not know the reasons?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir.
Senator Teller. From whom did you get these orders?
Mr. Thackery. From the Conmiissioner of Indian Affairs, who quoted the Secre-
enator Teller. The Commissioner gives you the instructions?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. He gives you the instructions?
Senator McCumbeb. You spoke of some of the Indians that wanted to come back.
What was to prevent them from coming back?
Mr. Thackery. The reason they came to me was to get money to get back with
their horses and for their own transportation.
Senator McCumbeb. Do you know what the distance is?
Mr. Thackery. The railroad fare is about $29, I believe. It is about a thousand
or twelve hundered miles.
Senator McCumber. Did you carefully investigate and inspect the lands that they
were living on down there in Mexico?
Mr. Thackeby. No, sir; I understood that they had no title where they were
staving; that they were staying on leased land.
Senator Telleb. What time of th'e year were you there?
Mr. Thackery. I was there last in January.
Senator Telleb. This past January?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator McC umber. Could you get a good view of the land at that time, so as to
observe its quality, etc.?
Mr. Thackery. Yes. I drove from Muzquiz, which is their railroad town, out to
their camn, I judge about ten miles, and saw where they were living and the country
between tne town and that place.
Senator McCumbeb. You saw some of them in more or less destitute circumstances,
did you?
Mr. Thackery. Well, I could not say that they were any of them hungry or lacking
for clothing. They had plenty of game and plenty to eat. I saw no indication of
thrift or anything of that kind. Tney were simply living, that was all. I saw no
fields.
Senator Teller. What sort of houses had they?
Mr. Thackery. The old-time houses; poles with rush mats or something of the
kind wrapped around them.
Senator Teller. Such as they had in Oklahoma?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. That is, the old natural house of the Kickapoo?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. Some of them in Oklahoma have the same houses, do they not?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; we call them "weekeeupe."
AFFJUBB 09 THB WnrfrAW KldAFOO VKVUL%^
1955
Fax ImiaasmmmiiSm
:9kem. dot hood
Ifr. Tzx.rz37r. Ix s pfcrdjor ^ ^ Sac aad
Mr- "Ys-t ixijET- li 2L J --5:1331:0. 33 » xttT jfXT- I Msw vjcBut ^acsS* "UUBPt ^J ifcft "iwy
|K«ce»ac ^^ JVC <ai& zmi^rM^. aad toj iew <f t&Knu Tbir prrKri|MJ <ttQe:!Cfa8>'.A
S^t:;k:;.x 3t:tl TTuns. Ii wvi^ umsjcs^Ht i«r fic^vt a£ lias •»9Ktt iii ibcr j^iflr?
SiKikr-.r TiT.£iT: Irxi t-js «Mr imblt ^jwjt?
3£r. TzA'.xjurr, Y^.: Jin* -jf i&mcel. I ^ act liisk iktt asjikni^ at tite nj 4f
i£«Rr k A rr.tt 6»a.. 'A frrfmrii. w 1^ s-jbi if j-^a iuwd irkr^Ac -'.oi is.
Mr Tzi'.xiiT 3^:, kt. 1 'jtfL :«'-« «j li^Pt w>t Ti* rrrer :S* JLxrai:^^^ !li¥«
"[iiL 3i & ii^aM;;-:^:-^ frf»a::i -jt wkSitr hzA vm r-.;i.T ttit yis^ 'V.«iaiteai^«ti« T<u£EUt vkfts I
stKihTaX }^y\ -,Tii,T3L C*x juc zjre IS jB 3id«fc 'ctf viikS S2ft rr-rfr h 3» ^
3£r Tz-L :xi.2rr. Aiccr: :ci^ ijli^ a iski Tir:^* ^iiit vidr^ iif liif rxcb. azid it v^;«3d
5«iin.-,r M.'.VTKinL Wm a ^i«ir ▼««?
Mr. Tzji.'.xra:T. Y^s . t<«7 fevrjij whza. Is ms «i s m>'jaj Vstson,
3£r. TiLfc.:xf2fT. Ii if 'j^nr^Ptid -vr^ abcvf^iie lr;iiCi — braAi js fc^li 10 yvsr htaA-^
»«:ii.vjr M'^Trxura. It c > «fci*CT *-.£?
3£r Tz.i. ' ]:r cT !v : : I wxJid '.Sb. r > fr^^ BTadcjr k£ «& sbe Ifgdan.
3£r T.^.tXiiT- "?»> -^.-i * '^T^T *-.CLi% -.^ -ii* ii£3t Wedy-Teiraa Misqfctz ^ik'.k
Mr. Tzi-XiXT l'«L
ii^ '.a::i:p. A» ikr ii» ^»» jiaii ^foenl s{i)p«EaruBC«
5m t&t ^ ^t^ ■ :.: ■•>«»/^ Kkkb^^'jc i*T* ii:**- 'xnazax I »i-i akx lia*
ii«!: iKzii x ^os Mr. Besr^ hM jvK
izd zbes, 7:13 -Kdit '.T^r r.c* iikiii azii
azii^ «:t=jeiriar. «.:ct.
r«- -2:fcr. lAi r--::!.--:^ -»-ir.«r TS"* T-jaabi
. wisuw i'-im V. "Jilt : -.-ri.
lift f rt)r.ijciirj»:c iz. liiik.: 'jr^izzzzj
1956 AFFAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator McOxtmbeb. Do you, Mr. Bentley, know wfaetlier there is any record of
the precipitation?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; it is now 20 inches.
The Chairman. What do you know, Mr. Thackery, of the general nature of this
transaction? If there is anyuiing that you know that will throw light upon it I wish
you would state it.
Mr. Thackert. The investigation I suppose was taken up upon a statement of
my own to the Department. The first I knew of the transaction was when the deeds
were being recorded in our county seat, which is only about 2) miles from our office.
Somebody, I do not remember who, called our attention to the fsud that there were
deeds on Indian lands being recorded there. I took the matter up and wrote to the
Department about it, to know if there had been any leg:islation for making the sale of
any Kickapoo lands, and they sent me a copy of the Indian bill as it passed and became
law. Some of the Indians returned from Mexico about that time and I asked them
about the matter. They did not know that any lands had been sold by other Indians —
most of them did not. Some of them said that Mr. Bentley had been down there and
had them sign some sort of a paper and paid them a little money, and I su^ested to
Uie Department that the matter be investigated. It was investigated and Tsuppose
you have Mr. Dixon's rejwrt here.
Senator Teller. Mr. Dixon is the man who investigated it?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Gamble. Did you cooperate with Mr. Dixon in making the examination
that resulted in the report that was submitted?
Mr. Thackery. No. sir; I was directed to give him any assistance that I could by
the Department, but I did not go down to Mexico with him and was not present when
any testimony was taken, and I Know very little about what testimony was given. He
told me something about it, however.
Senator Teller. How many of those Indians have come back from down there?
Mr. Thackery. You mean come back permanently?
Senator Teller. Yes.
Mr. Thackery. I do not know of any who have come back who went down to stay.
Senator Teller. They go back and forth?
Mr. Thackery. They go back and forth. There are some who went down there
for three or four months who have come back to Oklahoma and are with us, but I
think the line is rather drawn now between those who wish to remain there and those
who wish to stay in Oklahoma.
Senator Gamble. How many of those in Oklahoma now have allotments?
Mr. Thackery. I can only guess at that. I presume we have perhaps 60 who have
allotments. Many of them are living on their allotments.
Senator Teller. You were speaking of leasing those lands. How do you lease
them? You have had the Secretary to approve the lease?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. How do you lease them — ^by the acre?
Mr. Thackery. It is designated that the consideration shall be so much per annum
for the 80 acres in addition to the improvements. There is nearly always improve-
ments called for, like breaking new lands or building a bam, or something of that kind.
Senator Teller. That is, you make the lessee do that?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; we contract with the lessee for a stated amount of cash per
annum, and in addition to the cash consideration there is ordinarily improvements in
the way of fencing or digging a well, or something of that sort.
Senator Teller. You require the lessee to give a certain sum of money and also to
build a house or dig a well or something of that sort?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; where the place is improved we lease it for cash alone. The
river-bottom land is worth $2.50 to $3 an acre. In one case we got $6.
Senator Teller. Did they have improvements, such as a house or bamT
Mr. Thackery. No; we got that just for the land
Senator Teller. The naked soil?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. WTiat do they raise on that?
Mr. Thackery. That man raised potatoes. Cotton is the most common crop in our
iection — cotton , com . and potatoes. They raise two crops ol potatoes in a season.
Senator Teller. From tne same piece of ground?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. But only one crop of cotton?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Sf-nator Teller. And only one crop of com?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
AwrjkOB cm THB mmcAW xickafoo DnxAXSL 1957
Tkukk. CanyxmUiimhammmAUmtWKmtfmmmm^^hamdBtiiakB
Mr. Thackkkt. Xo. sr.
SeBaur Tbllkk. Toa ksvv bo id» cf tike i
yomremjxii?
Mi. Tmackkkw. AD that vekftrek with Aei
ScBtfflr TTTirm. Yoa dcp«it it there?
Mr. TH^mnrr. We depccit there erciy tm dari or two wcielsiL We msr hare s
■■all halawy am hand at the apmcr. I dunk thtf ol thk Vamt mfJtMej we maj hare
■OBMChiD^ like from two to ioor thc^mnd doOaa <m hand.
Senator Tkuzk. Too mean that that it doe to them?
Mi. Thackkkt. Tea. I made them a pajmeot in Janmvy of all that I could pay'
diem at that time. We still IicmI aoi&e on faa&d. bot cndfr an «rder from the Inteiinr
tmfwtf we could not par nntfl the iraae waa approired.
^ Cmaomas. How nnxii did jva pay oot down li^ire in Mexico?
Mr. Tkackxkt. The laat pajment?
T^OuJMMAS. Tea.
Mr. TKiCKKBT. I can onhr [wtimnUi
The Olaikxax. State apptOKimatelj.
Mr. rmiCKMMT. About ift.000.
Senaftor Tu-xn. How did jon pay' it?
Mr. Tmackmby. Bt check.
.ffiMlni Tnus. Ilkhere did ther get Ae checks cmhed?
Mr. Thacxekt. I d& net know. *
Senaftw Tellr. Did inm five to each Indiaa a check?
Mi. THAcmr. Y**.
Tbe (Imajmmax. Ahont H-OOO waa paid. How many fd them were there?
SenAXcr Tzxixx. Ii that a food way to pay Indiastf ?
Mr. Thacktzt. Tbat is the oiJy way we can pay iL^m. We have no anthonty to
par otherwise.
Sir. Be VTLZT. Tbe Izbdia&s who were paid at thAi tiiDe at M-azqpiz w€ve ocmpelled
V* CO to TexjBB to pet Their checks cafhen. as the Indtant istaft iiwayf that they dtaH
pKieiTe th^ nkcney at Eacie Fas. Tex.
SpTikV.7 TruffE How ^ is that frotn where they were?
Mr. Bevtlitt. A bmyired and finr adl«F?
Mr. Th^cxzibt. I ckih^d two d t^ dMrks at Mnzqnix lor the I&dians at the time
I mftri^ ibe payr:>eTii. I did that at a Mexican sbore.
Sei;AV.r TsilzE. Tbas is. yoa helped them u> set their checks cadicd?
Mr. Tba^cxext. Y«». I went in and ^x the xxKiney for them.
Tbe C^^Tisiifcy. TLi« payment was nude in Janoary?
Mr. Thacxzbt. Laac January.
Tt^ Chaizmas. H^/r masr iTadians were there there?
Mr. Thackzzt. In ihe nevehbofhood of 2O0.
TL^ Chaxexax. And j<fa paid oot in checks abo>Qt $4,009?
Mr. Thaciljekt. Srjtiteihhxz like that: c€ <rjasat I <k> nx know tbe exact amooot.
Tb&t W3KE l^^aae mfjoeir and ^ttuA mcney CLimbcned.
The CHAmiAS- ^^bai nkciiey?
Mr. Teacckkt. Leatse mooey and deed money — that ia. nkcney deirred frcm Ae
Tije Ceajimaje. Has iabefiied land been »:4d feeny zenenJlr*
Mr. Tzji-cirrT. WelL liere i« perijijif a ilird :^ ii leh wjli. tbe Kickapccs.
TLe CgArEMvy. H:w cjAny KKkapr^ctf 4:/ yva -anderaaiid there are. all t^]d. in
Meci':- izA 12 y.«ar i»t*:it?
3lr TH.i.cx£ZT. V^n XDcan the otieiui alkttees?
Ti-e • HjLiiKAX. 1 3i«li. Aii tbe Rickap'^e in Otlabfcca aj>i Meiicio that went fran
tbe y-LZ'^i rMA-aes v.- Mexico re>r*^iir: net tbe o4d piw-p-ie wbc Lad been dc-ws these
>lr. Kr.vTurT. Xrt likcise wir: baTe always 't*en ibere?
Ti*e «' B Art M • .^ . N •-. .
Mr. Tajt-CAEET. TLwe- are acasewbere? near 3ElC«-
Tbe VH-UEK-t-v. Ik- y-.-:: kiiiw briw halv tijere are that are perrraopat readenls
ti,-*** k* v.:: rr:gri ay*
Mr TH-irEEirr. Ii O'r'th-.cia?
Tijt «' EiiiMAS. Nc/: iL Mexico: tbcae wi*o were ibere '.•ej'ure tbeae p^i^'i*: went
Mr. Tha.cx«t. X-?: I d-.iK< krj-.w sr
Tbe Chaizmajp. Tbe payment ^^d« dik/iirBc«i asade abua t::i9L» af ^eoe i£ir each cAe of
L that waa down there?
1958 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Thagkert. Yes; flomewheres near that.
Mr. Bbntley. This was not paid to each one. Some would get $150 and another
would get nothing.
The Chairman. How many of these wanted to come hack to Oklahoma?
Mr. Thackery. I think the majority of the younger people would be glad to come
back. Of that number I would say at least half of them would come back if the influ-
ences that tend to keep them there were removed.
The Chairman. What influences?
Mr. Thackery. Well, they do not want their children to go to school, and they have
been made to believe that they will, if they remain with us in Oklahoma, have to
send their children to school, and of course tney do not like the idea of white people
getting all around their homes. They are old-time Indians, and they want to remain
tnat way.
The Chairman. Those influences are conditions that pertain to the Indian himself ,
are they not?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. Tell me why the Department is anxious to bring them back.
Mr. Thackery. I do not know that they are. The Department has never indi-
cate to me that they had any intention of returning them, and no steps have been
taken, so far as I know, with tnat in view, unless it be the withholding of this money,
and, as I stated, I do not know why that was done; but I think it was not with the
intention of forcing the return of thoee people, but because the Department had been
led to believe that they had not made proper use of the money. It was better for
them, and a matter of protection to them, to withhold it.
The Chairman. The allotments that remain undisposed of in the vicinity of Shaw-
nee, what are they worth approximately on an average?
Mr. Thackery. They will averaee $2,000. . That is a low estimate of it.
Senator Teller. Two thousand dollars for an 80-acre allotment?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. What was left after these sales were made? You have made
some sales through your oflice?
Mr. Thackery. All the land that has been sold has been sold through our oflice.
Senator Teller. Up to this last spring they were all made through your office?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. Before the restrictions were removed?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; all excepting the seven.
Senator Teller. How many allotments have you disposed of?
Mr. Thackery. I would say about 25 or 30.
Senator Teller. Out of the 210?
Mr. Thackery. No; there are about 280, I think.
Senator Teller. What have you sold the land for that you have sold?
Mr. Thackery. It has averaeed. I think, about $2,000.
Senator Teller. What was tne least price that you sold for?
Mr. Thackery. The loast I have in mind was about $600.
Senator Teller. For an 80-acre allotment?
Mr. Thackery. Y(»8; I do not recollect any that sold for less than that.
Senator Teller. That was alx)ut $6 an acre?
Mr. Thackery. That was a tract that was low and sandy, and the river overflows
there.
Senator Teller. \Miat policy did you pursue in selling this land? Did you adver-
tise it?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; we advertised it in accordance with the instnictions of the
Interior Department for 90 days, and at the end of 90 days we receivcHl sealod bids,
and if the highest bid was alx)ve our appraised valuation we award (hI the sale.
Senator Teller. How did you have tnem appraised — who appraised them?
Mr. Thackery. Either myt^olf or some one designated by me.
Senator Teller. That wa« before the advertisement, or after?
Mr. Thackery. Before. We made our appraisement and sealed it, and ()p(»n<Hl it
along with the bids. We did not make the appraisement public, but the bids were
onened publicly. I imderstood the Senator to ask if the appraisements were made
1 re or after tne sale of the land.
>r 1 .BR. What DroDortion did you sell as low as $6 an acre?
, aHj , »y. A"' .proportion. I do not rememl)er of any other one that
I A I 1 .^«« ^, ae at about $800^ several at a thousand aollars, and sev-
t doUan. I think the average would not be very far
irould be $10 an acre.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1959
Mr. Bbntlbt. To make a i&li comparison; there was one sold for $28,000 and one for
$37,950.
Senator Teller. I did not intend, of course, Mr. Thackery, that you should give
me the average of those.
Mr. Thackert. No. You see the allotments are right along the North Canadian
River. They extend from near Choctaw City to Shawnee, a distance of about 35 miles.
Senator Teller. Tell me why these allotments were sold.
Mr. Thackery. Upon the application of the heirs. They requested that we sell
them.
Senator Teller. Were those lands, in all cases, where the allottee was dead?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. You have not sold any others?
Mr. Thackery. Not of the Kickapoos. We have of the Shawnee and Potta-
watomie.
Senator Teller. What is your rule about that? How do you conclude to sell a
piece of land — ^what influences are brought to bear on you?
Mr. Thackery. The Indians and the heirs
Senator Teller. I am not talking about the heirs. Of course, you sell in the case
of heirs on account of the necessity of dividing the money?
Mr. T:hackery. Yes; a Pottawatomie or Shawnee could dispose of their lands if it
be shown that the allottee was a nonresident of Oklahoma Territory. An act of
Congress, as I imderstand it, was passed on behalf of a number of rottawatomies
who had never lived in Oklahoma but had alwajrs lived in Kansas, and the Okla-
homa lands were sold to enable them, I understood, to improve their lands in Kansas.
Senator McCumber. I would like to ask why these Indians are so averse to their
children going to school there?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know that they are any more averse to their children
going to school there than elsewhere. I would state that we have this year about
eight in school
Senator Teller. Eight Kickapoos?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. These are the children of those that remain?
Mr. Thackery. Not all of them. Two of them just came up from Mexico and
went into school at their own request.
Senator Teller. How old are they? '
Mr. Thackery. Two boys about fifteen or sixteen years old. One of the boys
when I was in Mexico in January did not speak about it at the camp, and I started
on back to town to take the train home. He had gone out on the road and waited
there for me and asked me if I would not let him get into my wagon and if I would
not bring him back. He wanted to come to school. I told him I had no means to
pay for his transportation at that time and could not do it. Later, we sent an em-
gloyee down there about leasing matters. The boy renewed his application to bring
im back. The employee referred the matter to me and I told him to bring him
back. He wanted to go to school.
Senator McCumber. Is there a general feeling among the Kickapoos there that the
schools are, on the whole, demoralizing to the children?
Mr. Thackery. Well, there are a good many of the old-time Indians who have
that feeling, because some of those educated fellows have learned enough to get onto
the bad ways of the white race; and it is perfectly natural that many of them would
adopt the lowest stage of our civilization first. I think we can not exT)ect anything
else. We can not jump them over that stage. It must be gradual, tneir improve-
ment.
Senator McCumber. That is the real cause — ^rather a suspicion on the part of the
parents, and especially with regard to their girls, that it is not entirely safe to send
them off to school.
Mr. Thackery. I never heard of anything of that kind. Our Indians have never
expressed to me a feeline of unsafety for their girls. On the other hand, they expressed
a feeling against the schools because so many of the boys who have come back will
get drunk and carouse around and make trouble.
Senator Teller. How long have you been down there?
Mr. Thackery. I have been in the Indian work about fifteen years.
Senator Teller. How lon^ have you been in Okl^oma?
Mr. Thackery. I started m at the Sac and Fox Agency fifteen years ago. I have
not been in Oklahoma all the time. I was with the Sioux a while and in Nebraska
a while.
Senator Teller. Have there been some boys coming back froin outside schools
that have turned out pretty hard cases?
Mr. Thackery. Yes,
1960 APFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator Teller. Quite a number of them?
Mr. Thackery. Well, not quite a number; no.
Senator Teller. But enough, I suppoee, to scare the parents?
Mr. Thackery. Yes. The fact of their comine back and turning out bad has
naturally been chai^ged by older Indians to what they have learned at school. The
chances were in many cases that they would have been bad anyway.
Mr. Bentley. If tne gentleman will permit me, I would like to ask him if two of
those boys who returned from the school have not been murdered by the others and
if one is not now in Jail for murder of the schoolboys?
Mr. Thackery. There is a young man, a Kickapoo, Henry Bentley, who is charged
with murder. The probabilities are that he is guilty in one case. It is a suspicion
that he killed another fellow. He is a pretty bad fellow. I think it is natural with
the fellow, and that it was not due to any influence he was thrown into at school.
The Chairman. Why do you not finish one thing at a time? Have there been
two killed?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. Two kiUed by boys who have been at Indian schools off the
reservation?
Mr. Thackery. They were killed on the reservation.
Senator Teller. Where did these boys go .to school?
Mr. Thackery. At Carlisle school* The ones who were killed have never been
to Carlisle, or at least not been there any length of time.
Senator Teller. But the murderers were from Carlisle?
The Chairman. Were the boys that were killed boys who had been to Mexico and
come back?
Mr .Thackery. I do not think they had gone to Mexico to stay permanently.
The Chairman. How long ago were they killed?
Mr. Thackery. The last one was killed about six months ago. The other one about
a year ago.
The Chairman. How far were they from Shawnee when they were killed?
Mr. Thackery. About 7 miles wc-st.
Senator Teller. Were they punished for this crime?
Mr. Thackery. One of them is under arrest now. They were both arrested the first
time and were released on motion of the county attorney hecause there was no evidence
against them. The second time there was only one of them arrc«ted. There was no
evidence to justify the arrest of the other fellow.
Mr. Bentley. Have you ever heard of any Kickapoos murdering each other who
had not been in school?
Mr. Thackery. Yos. I do not recollect the case, but I think you would recall the
case. It was when you were agent.
Mr. Bentley. No; that was not a murder. The man who was killed got on the
railroad and got killed that way.
There Ls another inaT* r in connection with the school proposition. Mr. Thackery
states that they are not afraid to send their children to school because of their daugh-
ters being ill treated. Is it not fearof what will becomeof the daughters after returning
from school — that is what the parents are afraid of — more than anything else?
The Chairman. Is there anything, Mr. Thackery, that you want to state alK)iit this
transaction that will throw any light on the character of it?
Mr. Thackery. In my relation with the case, the only desire I have had is the mat-
ter of protection for the Indian. The reason I took it up was to ask the Department to
have tne matter investigated before any action was taken. That wa^ the only desire I
ever had in the matter. The Indians were in Mexico, 1,000 or 1 ,200 miles from us, and
we were led to believe that they had not received or would not receive the monev due
them for the seven allotments in question. I understand that the title to the lancf they
have now is a ninety-nine-year lease, or something like that. 1 think if these pat<»nts
are to be issued the Indians ou^ht to be protected in some way. It should ])e seen to
that if they do get land there in Mexico they get proper title, and that they receive
something like Sie real value of the land that they part with.
Mr. Bentley. I will say that $200 was paid to a lawyer n'cximinended by Mr. Martin,
the American consul at (iudad Porfirio Diaz. I gave this attomev $200 for investigat-
ing the title and for being present when the tithes were execute<l. lie accepted the
title.
Senator Teller. Was it supposed to be an absolute title?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Teller. Not a lease?
Mr. Bentley. Not a lease. It is an absolute title.
Senator Teller. When did you learn of this, Mr. Thackery— when you went down
there?
AFFAIKS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1961
Mr. Thackery. No, bit; I do not think that the lease was made at that time.
Mr. Bentlby. I was negotiating for the land when Mr. Thackery was there. The
land was acquired and the Indians afterwards moved on to their own land and are
now living there.
Mr. Thackery. What sort of title have you got to the land?
Mr. BENTiiEY. An absolute title. We bougnt six days of water, and und^ the
Mexican law a certain quantity of land goes with the water. They do not measure
land as we do here, by acres. Itvii under the old Spanish custom. The land goes
with the water.
Mr. Thackery. It is my opinion, so far as I have gone into it, that the allotments
of Okemah and his wife are in the hands of innocent purchasers. They are possessed
by this gentleman here [indicating Mr. Eggerman]. They have indicated to me all
the time that they wanted to do what was right; that they did not want something
for nothing, but wanted to cooperate with the Department and have the matter
properly adjusted. My opinion is that the other allotments are not in the hands of
mnocent purchasers and tnat the Indians oug^t to be protected.
Senator Teller. What kind of man is Mr. Ives?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know. I think he is a man of good standing in our com-
munity, so far as I know. I have never heard anything to the contrary.
Senator Gamble. Gould not these Indians be protected if the parties in whom the
title is now vested made a declaration of trust and recorded it, growing the interest
that they have in the land?
Mr. Thackery. I do not quite understand your question, Senator.
The Chairman. He is not a lawyer and may not understand.
Senator McCumber. Perhaps he does not imderstand that the land has been deeded
simply in trust, as the trust does not appear.
Senator Gamble. Yes. It has been stated here that these lands were conveyed by
these different Indians to different parties; that it was not an absolute sale; that it"
' was transferred to them as a matter of convenience, so that they could be sold to
other parties. In other words, the parties who hold the titles now hold them prac-
tically in trust for the Indians. Now, if that be true, could not the Indians be pro-
tected if the parties in whose names the lands are held make a declaration of trust,
reciting the names of the parties in whose interest they hold the titles, and make it
a matter of record? Then, when the lands are disposed of, the proceeds would go to
the proper parties. That was suggested, I think, in the hearing yesterday, and a
willmgness was expressed that the parties would comply with that su^estion.
Mr. Thackery. I think that could be done. The omy desire that Thad, as I say,
was a matter of protecting the Indians.
Senator Gamble. I have not gone through the report of Special Agent Dixon, but
it would appear from what came to me that he haa largely gone to the records and
had taken uie records as matter of evidence and the amount of consideration ex-
pressed in the deeds and had not made a specific inquiry of the parties who had
knowledge of the focts. The report does not seem to be very full or clear.
Mr. Thackery. He went down there to take the testimony of the Indians who
were purported to have made the conveyances. Just what he got from those Indians
I do not Know, but I think that he made an honest effort to get all the information
he could. Then, after finishing in Mexico, he came back and got certified copies of
the records. I never heard before that there was any trust held by the first pur-
chasers from the Indians for the Indians.
Mr. Bentley. If the Senators will permit me along that line, the testimony taken
by Dixon in Mexico in each an<l every instance showed that the Indian said that he
had turned his land over to me, so that he could buy land in Mexico. It was always-
a trust and nothing else but a trust. It shows that in every instance. There is
nobody connected with this matter so far as the Indians are concerned but what
clearly understood and knew what they were doing, and they know now. And they •
are satisfied with what has been done. So &r as Mr. Ives is concerned, and my wife
is concerned, they are both solvent, and, if it is the judgment of the gentlemen here
that they should make arrangements sudi as have been suggested, I shall be glad to
have that done.
Senator Gamble. I think it would relieve you materially.
The Chairman. They ought to put a declaration on record.
Mr. Bentley. I have taken every possible precaution, even to apprehending that
either of Hie parties might die, and to cover this possibility I hold warranty deeds
properly executed with the name of the grantee m blank. If my wife should die
to-morrow I could file a warranty deed.
Senator Gamble. But it might not be a very good deed.
Senator Teller. It is not unusual to execute such deeds.
27813--r>. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 3 6
1962 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAFOO INDIANS.
Senator McGumbbr. Mr. Bentley explained that he did not expect to hold the
trust very long.
The Chairman. I would not hold a piece of land a minute without a trust for my
own protection and the protection of my family.
Senator Tbllbr. I have done it.
ib. Thackbry. Would this declaration of trust be accompanied by a bond?
Senator Teller. No. A declaration of trust is simply notice to the man who buys
the property, that he buys it subject to the rights of the Indians and that the money
goes to the Indians.
Mr. Thackbry (to Mr. Bentley). Have you bought any other lands of the Indians?
Mr. Bbntlby. No; not except these seven.
Mr. Thackbry. A great many of them have told me that you had deeds for their
allotments.
Senator Tbllbr. Do you know that these Indians in Oklahoma are citizens of the
United States?
Mr. Thackery. Yes.
Senator Teller. And that the Government has lost all control over their property?
iii, Thackbry. I do not understand that it has.
Senator Teller. Well, I do, as a lawyer.
The Chairman. They still claim whatever restrictions the Government placed on
their lands.
Senator Teller. The restrictions in the patent remain.
The Chairman. But beyond that
Senator Teller. Beyond that you can not control them. And when we remove
those restrictions the Indians have as much right to control their land as we have
ours; and just as quickly as the Government of the United States takes its hands off
the Indian and makes mm understand that he is to do for himself there will be some
iMme for him, and not until then.
Senator Gamble. How long have you known Mr. Bentley?
Mr. Thackbry. Just the time that I have been at Shawnee — a little uver four years.
Senator Gamble. He has been there the greater part of the time?
iix, Thackbry. There and in Mexico; yes, sir.
Senator Gamble. What reputation does he bear in the community?
Mr. Thackbry. It is not good.
Senator Gamble. Would you say that his general reputation for honesty and fair
dealing was not good?
Mr. Thackbry. Yes, sir.
Senator Gamble. Are you acouainted with his wife?
Mr. Thackery. I have seen ner; I do not know her very well; but I have just
0een her a few times.
Senator Gamble. Do you know whether she is a woman of property or not?
Mr. Thackery. I think she has considerable property.
Senator Gamble. And would be financially responsible for a reasonable amount,
would she?
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. What is the matter with Bentley— vou say his reputation is not
good. In what respect is it not good? Do you mean nis reputation m the Depart-
ment is not good, or in the community in which he lives?
Mr. Thackery. I mean in the community in which he lives.
Senator Teller. Now, tell us what is the trouble.
Mr. Thackery. The Senator asked me what the general belief was there, and I
attempted to give it to him.
Senator Teller. He did not; he asked you what Mr. Bentley 's reputation is.
Mr. Thackery. Well, the men whom I have done business with state that his
reputation is not good; that he has been connected to a considerable extent with
matters of this kind. He may be all risht in this. I am sure that if I am wrong,
whv, I want to make it right and do an>rtning I can to make it right.
Senator Teller. You form your opinion largely out of this transaction, do you not?
Mr. Thackery. No, sir; I
Senator Teller. Well, you have said that this was a shady transaction.
Mr. Thackery. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. You have so said to the Department have you not?
Mr. Thackery. I do not know that I used that same expression. That there was
fraud connected with it has been mv belief. It was my belief that the Indians wore
Dot receiving proper value for their land, and I still believe that they will not receive
proper value for it if the patents are issued on these allotments.
Senator Tbllbr. Why do you believe that?
AFFAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1963
Mr. Thackbrt. Well, I believe it from my general understanding of the reputation
of Mr. Bentley, who is laigely connected with the matter.
Senator Teller. You do not know anything about the i&ct that Mrs. Bentley held
this land in trust? •
Mr. Thackert. No, sir; I did not know about that trust matter.
Senator Teller. You did not know that Mr. Ives held it in trust, did you7^
Mr. Thackery. No, sir.
Senator Teller. You did not inquire about that when you were writing to the
Department? You assumed that those were absolute sales, aid you?
Mr. Thackert. Yes; I did.
Senator Teller. And on that you formed your opinion?
^fr. Thackert. Yes, sir. This matter was never suggested before, as far as I know —
that he was holding it in trust. It seems to me it would have been proper, if that was
the case, to have let Mr. Dixon know it and have it included in his report.
Senator McCumber. Let Mr. Bentley say why he did not explain l^e matter of the
trusteeship to Mr. Dixon when his testimony was taken.
' Mr. Bentlet. My testimony was taken m Mexico, and I had to answer interroga-
tories that were prepared in aidvance, and approved by the courts of Mexico, and I
answered each and every interrogatory. You can not, there, gp beyond the record.
I answered everything that was asked and made eversrthing plain that was asked.
Senator McGumbbr. And there was no question asked that would have allowed
you to make answer that the property was held in trust?
Mr. Bentlet. No, sir; or if there was any such question in the 71 interrogatories it
is properly and truthfully answered.
Senator McCumber. As a matter of fact, men dealing more or less in real estate, do
they not generally understand that if you have property for sale you can sell it better
if it is in somebody else's name than in your own; ana is it not quite customary for
parties desiring to handle such lands to have them transferred to somebody else, so
that they do not assume to be the owners, for the reason that everything you say will
be taken with more effect if it is understood that you are not the owner of the property?
Is it not, among real estate dealers, quite a common thing? I am asking you, Mr.
Bentley, ia not that the rule?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes, sir; that is the rule. Mr. Thackery says that my reputation is
bad in the community in which I live. I want to ask him if he did not represent to
the Department that I was not a proper person to be guardian of Indian children?
Mr. Thackery. Yes; I did. In the same correspondence I objected to the appoint-
ment of Mr. Patrick — ^the two agents whom I succeeded. They had an acquaintance
witn the Indians and with the land. I made no recommendation as to who should be
appointed, but I objected to either of those being appointed.
Mr. Bentlet. Did not the United States attorney brini^ actions in the probate
court at your instigation to remove me from sucb guardianship?
Mr. Thackert. No, sir.
Mr. Bentlet. Not at your instigation?
Mr. Thackert. No, sir.
Mr. Bentlet. Did ne not bring such action?
Mr. Thackert. I do not know that he did.
Mr. Bentlet. Were not such actions brought by you?
Mr: Thackert. No, sir.
Mr. Bentlet. Were you not present at the trial of such cases?
Mr. Thackert. Yes; as I say, I did not think that you or Patrick were proper
persons for that position.
Mr. Bentlet. Did you offer any testimony as to my character and standing in the
community in which I lived?
Mr. Thackert. I think I did not.
Mr. Bentlet. You wanted me removed?
Mr. Thackert. For the reaepn I stated. You and Patrick were agents and you
had an inside track, so to speak, with knowledge of the whole of the Indian land
matters, so that I did not thmk it would be fair to the Indians or to the white people
leasingor buying Indian lands.
Mr. Bentlet. Would that knowledge disqualify me?
Mr. Thackert. Not necessarily; but for the reason that there was a fight there
over the whole matter, and you were attempting to get guardianship for practically
all the Kickapoo Indians.
Mr. Bentlet. Do you think their interests would have been injured if I were
guardian for all of them?
Mr. Thackert. If I did not think so I would not have fought your guardianship.
Mr. Bentlet. Are you not in court now fighting it under the direction of vqmx.
office?
1964 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAFOO INDIANS.
Mr. Thackert. No, air; I am not fighting it. We have not taken it up at all.
Mr. Bbntlet. You are not opposing it?
Mr. Thagkery. I am not opposing it. Where I have been subpoenaed as a witness
in the case I have appeared #nd answered the (juestions asked.
Mr. Bentley. Do you not know that the United States attorney has stated that it
was in the interests of the minor, whose lands were sold through your office, that I
should ^e removed as his guardian?
Mr. Thagkery. No^ sir; I did not know that.
Senator Teller. Did you bring a suit to set aside something?
iSi. Bentley. Yes. There was an ill^timate child who was my ward. The
mother of this child never was the wife of the man who claimed to be the father of
the child that I am guardian lor. This little boy's brother's allotment belonged to
my ward, but the Department permitted a supposed father of my ward, as sole heir,
a man wno was not the husband of this boy's mother, to sell the land that the boy
had inherited from his brother. I filed an action in the United States district court
to recover that land and cancel that deed, and a strong attempt was made to remove
me as guardian.
Mr. Thagkery. The action in which I took part to prevent your being appointed
was long before any land was sold.
Mr. Bentley. But you were present when the United States attorney attempted
to remove me from this ^ardianship, stating that my removal would be m the inter-
ests of this ward; and this was after this lana was sold.
Your contention in court was that my appointment was not satisfactorv to the Sec-
retary of the Interior, and long arguments were made to the effect that tne court, out
of courtesy to the Secretary of the Interior, because I was not satisfactory to him,
ou^^t to remove me. My counsel contended that it was not a matter for the exer-
cise of the discretion of the Secretary of the Interior, and the judge so held.
Senator Teller. Who was the juoge?
Mr. Bentley. Jud^ Allen, of Oklahoma County.
Senator Teller. What was the result of the suit?
Mr. Bentley. The court refused to remove me, and the action is still pending in
the United States court.
Mr. Thackery. As to the case that he refers to now, there was no action by the
United States to remove him as guardian excepting in this way; a lease on the land
belon^ng to the boy he speaks of was involved. There were two appointments of
guardians, one in Pottawatomie County and his in Oklahoma County. The question
then as to who was the guardian depended on establishing the fact of residence of the
boy — whether in Oklahoma or in Pottawatomie County. The court decided that his
home was in Oklahoma and that Mr. Bentley was his legal guardian.
Senator Teller. You say you did not try to get him removed?
Mr. Thackeuy. Not in that way. The question in court was whether this lease
made in our office and signed by the other giiardian would stand.
Mr. Bentley. Did not the court hold that I am the legal guardian?
Mr. Thackery. I think it did, and then it was appealed and carried to the supreme
court of the Territory.
Mr. Bentley. Is it not a fact that you, within the last few days, have permitted the
execution of a lease recognizing the other guardian?
Mr. Thackery. No.
Mr. Bentley. Did you not advertise this land for lease a few days ago?
Mr. Thackery. We advertised it, and the United States attorney, and your attor-
ney. Mr. Smith, and myself agreed that both of the guardians should resign and wo
would permit the judge to name a new guardian.
Mr. Bentley. But 1 am not going to concur in that. If I am not competent t*> be
guardian, I should be removed.
The Chairman. I think this discussion has gone far enough.
Senator Teller. I think Mr. Bentley has a right to present some evidence ah tn bin
character.
The Chairman. But we do not want so much argument.
Mr. Bentley. Soon after Mr. Thackery HucctMulod me charges were prcfcrr^^d
affainst me by persons who woro afraid that I would get back into the service f>f the
United Stat<»s. The United Stati* Indian inspector, C\tuh Beede, was s<»nt to inves-
tigate those charge's. I wa.s sfwcifically charged with snort-paying an Indian. Now,
in one in. dince it was pnived that I had paid an Indian t(M» much, and when the next
time of payment came that I paid him tiie propiT am<>unt, and then he thought that
1 had not paid him i^nongh. Some white man p»t bini to make an affidavit, and this
inveflti^tion followed. The fact wa** that in llw previous pavment [ had heat myself
out of 14.50. Mr. Beede *s reports relating tu this matter, tor some reason, are not
ATSMBB^ or THE MECCaS KLCRAFOO IlTMXSS^ 1965
:^9i2i2;:r Tillk3l Jha iMpiCtaiuaa s?? x » ■HHfciwf
jf 1^ "libt ziia.ia«m*ac 'httf zh^ p^i^it*^ ic ilj .'.Tjitacrr 'Jba. zit**- m**- ir zs.^?^ lay int*. joii
Kjm IfeiczarH: MiAJzufty. a 3i**i!t* .r ^;ii*t lac* P!r«tH*i»Hi£ SferRra&^y. M» MaJLmligy ■*
ii:tW^ .n ikjf '!i:rr jini ji j&ippciir <kz uriiEir f^^y* .uui :i joy siHXiJxr •:£ c^ ^iinsnisE^ttt wiEL
'jkk^ zhi*: 2r.a>:L^ ^ mc xsv '^c otHT jtf ^j mj iiajiff^ig <^ ji» &} -ir^trcb^ I hskr^ ctte eon-
diUmnn: if ihi^ >ii:ar^ JkKi i^ :i&i:iskitf ni my .'<?.«« nnynfry ;ka«i [f ^ik». ia^ E ^yn. ;& iiani^fir-
•u* p«»£sr.iL x iai^ imifz^ 'if IniiuLOiL. ir jjit ili:c :f ir»i •^liainhni^. I ttiII r»»sia3. my
pt'^BimiiL. I i!i.T» it>^^T)»r le^iPi "imtc my c»pii2Li£]Lt:ia nr^t had ^^JLiiitpz n c^ Ini irttn *''jdst»
jkOii JL lOiir 'I'lfS*!** :f "Jii*^ S**!r«H:-fccy -if Jia**^ iac^air <uui za. cae- <iifiire if Mr. Tliaiikery-
I ksiiw^ ju :n ;afti ir;:iiii dxtrin.
I inil 3i:w r»a»i lii**- pikp«»r.
S.tl. ♦•iTaJT* 323CD2.
C'u^.ift S^Ota butian. burptsnkir, Shisnnum, Okui.
?i3^ I imn*^ liii* iii:iii.r v. ii*r«*w:3:i 3;uifi y;ix x iC^tkemAHXi: <fiS3ii>«i by t;&jt pczuTi™!
''it.n >>*<■*> -n^H* r^ikrr:* Jr^>rrkL r^rrr!i.riiiL !t;ii]icj. iJiit m^ni^trsal ot&!«5 br^jniir TTimm
J3. miL23^ :f ^122*^ 6l i"4n.^~«'< iZit ^iitfcTr:it*»* lTit'fnv.r>» d ••'•ttiuiii.mAw Simi* D«»E»:iiiJ B>
iraiji** ic:>acii:a liia* 3iii4T.«*r iiikt !i#H«L .!aJI»*»i. "Jrfii/ '¥»r«* mi:-« i^wirTiair wrca mT ;ki3LQb-
TiriL. j«iii ^iHCa!** ftJLr^t zhikz zht^j 5C»ttaT»fi ii »ifir»ai y^ft p»«s:nttily laii 3i; -iisisi*^ in
'jifvr ivn. ipaj imi litmriiits^ wziaz "JLrty kzu^'v ^.>(is my -jbimimiiCEasBoiL of saa* snas*
Aaii I 2£,w mk T^.a "JUkC mi^ frjsSfHmHu: i»r»?wTsfc b»»- ^^riiiaDi^^ii viaih. in^a. Ii*ta«»o ^r ttan^
ZHni'.UrT M TTJL nay 2itT«»- ".iki*XL ir S»»i!**3:'3Rii &:>ir.ai!lif SiL* JU^m m mcr^int^n by 31**^ 'X S&Cr
3i:ii_ Ji^ A- Hrr':iB:«:t:x.
^n. Tt^-i "Jii* TZiiHrFmnii^i- litaJc^r*. 3it*r'!iazr^. F-»ii»raI TtfiiT^^rs. -rn-ncj miciaTifd
:rSi'*r». "'.Liir^ntf :!: "?ha.Tr>Hr inii •C'^iiiiiimii T^TrrZ'.rT. *>rr*"»tni- ".in'nii 5Lin_ CTTTBi
r>^-e:e 7::."'^': S--ir>^ Iniiuiz. =iifn»ri":.:r •*x::r*« v. y:ii lor ziiiirr-jriul :ccLa:iL *ii
MjLn^n < 5-^:1*^7 -x-^»ri!iLl rTn.--*'! Sr^"'^« Iz-iiiiin i*r^in:. :t -iiis rsrr lait i:r!ii«ij
zi iniirr* .r M-^Tir:a^ "j*^'kj,;:».r. izii Ah«enz»^ "Mut-viiiie I^itriunK. Mr B^^xriHy'*
i*:Ti:nj*rr!i::ii:Ti lutf :»-^rL *Qr:i«ii»:v.rT - : -z*r hi.tursn irrirn.* p»»f:clH- :t 'hrs T-*rrJ:.:rr. joii.
▼ - '.♦*•_e'T-^ -,: -^-ir Ir.«:^r-i* Z' laa Jtur -tJr^!! a 3i;i.'n:.^r x 5*1 :tj' ^:mixi»*iii" '±1*2 Mr.
'nnr'u Q iibi i*^!! k ?>•"■:•-'» i-iii "Jiiu: 'Jitr lIi* art* izi^rr i:» '.2ikr2*r "v-rr nco:_^ 'i»*i:nmr-
JUT "-"^.l^if-i uiii '♦-iT-BwC-rnzur •£»raii_ ir^'^iin. mil r»cir-t.*.D^ :!3iL2iriii». uut ▼»* iif*£-
".m** ~.i.tf r^* T-TT* "1' -C -^T^r-^^yrrtr ""'. j^ri "uii* '"^rt ■'^.r^m. 'j. ▼tiiiTii "¥» ii:uf Mr_
♦ i-iit-^ r ri-nJ_ HiLj.r c riiikTrHit*** I H. Mjbx-^y pr-jfiiiH^rLC Fb^r. Xidiicml
BstzJc ** HArt 4' cjiifr.cL ":itfcier F:r5C ^'idi.c;!^ Bstsj:. C J* B^iwiiil
--r^r-cr-^jfiii-^n- '>xiahj coa ViT'a'.ciiI Bjink. F B 5.rH*<i. 'JkHU^r ♦■"wdifc-
'I r-tL ^i^i'ii.cal ^tL" r W L- L'^-vnni. 3iitniuz«rr EKiTrir'iL H.ir»i-
▼•tr^ f~,;cn:a.ay Hirry M-**!, hamnr"* mi»r»i3aa£: ^n^i*y S'iiraaii,.
•>£uL. '1- Z L#-tiT:;t.n iirrwu^ ntHT-.narn :i.r Lf^'r. Ti;Ln Eju-nrar!'
i-ii: Izi^i»-ci»-c_': .ci;:itzy 1* tnii II ir-r«r yti.z. frrr^rf: '^'iiitirat*^'
Hirinrari ♦!•:- iy JL- F. ^t:r»M^r aouaiib^ sf iznL. : C^iy**^ i: Whit'
1966 AFFAIRS OF TH£ MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
taker (by T. W. Whittaker); H. O. Beard, hardware merchant; L. A.
Thompson, wholesale meat market; J. C. Chrianey, groceries, feed,
and coal; M. V. Bain & Co.. noceries.
B. V. Brown, Kerfoot, Wavlana Grocery Company; N. M. Douglas, chief
of police, Shawnee; M. M. Kerfoot; F. Strube, saddlery and lianu^HH
merchant; H. Stembeig. clothing and dry goods; J. M. Does, po]ic(>
iudee; Cnas. Unznow, loamess; Ueo. B. Graf, meat market; Menry
McGill, member city coimcil; August Salich. merchant tailor; Wm.
L. Baker, grocer; £. Gofer, dealer in mules ana horses: £. C. Mitchell,
merchant; J. H. Aydelotte, Shawnee Cotton Oil Company; A. B.
Carroll, dry floods merchant: W. N. McGee, M. D.; B. R. Kittrodge,
druggist; 0. K. Harryman. druggist; E. S. Chapline, of Chapline Gro-
ceryCompany; P. P. Si>arKS, merchant. Shawnee, Okla.; Meek & Co.,
meat maricet; M. O. Bailey, jeweler, Snawnee, Okla.; K. B. Pollock,
druggist, Shawnee, Okla.; C.I. Bocher, quecnsware merchant; Burt &
Ryan, proprietor (by S. H. Burt) Hotel Burt; P. P. Steams, post-
master, Shawnee, Okla.; J. M. Remington; Joe Giles, 122 Broadway;
McCredie Hardware Company, by Hugh McCredie; J. H. Everest,
vice-president Bank of Commerce of Oklahoma. Okla.; B. D. Shear,
clerk United States district court; Frank W. Ingles, official stenog-
rapher. United States court; J. P. Allen, probate judffe, Oklahoma
County; Everett M. Hurry, clerk of probate court. Oklanoma County.
W. R. Taylor, county attorney, Oklahoma County; Ella D. Lamb, official
stenographer. United States land office, Oklahoma City, Okla.; J. U.
B(*aty, attorney at law; Samuel Murphy, postmaster, Oklahoma,
Okla.; Edw. H. Cooke, president State National Bank; Wm. Meyer,
Presbyterian minister; C. H. Everest, cashier Bank of Commerce; G. B.
Stone, fire insurance; A. Ketchem, lumberman, Oklahoma City; D.
Wolff, merchant; W. W. Asher, ex officio register of deeds, Potta-
watomie County, Okla.; Mitscher-Mitchell Dry Goods Company, 138
Main street (by C. E. Mitchell, secretary), Oklahoma City, Okla.;
Margaret McKinley, deputy clerk, United States district court; M.
A. O'Brien, sheriff, Oklahoma County; Sam Harris, wholesale liquor
and beer dealer; Robert Reed, president bank, Parkersbury, Okla.;
Paul F. Cooper. Territorial bank commissioner (ex-cashier Okla-
homa State Bank, Shawnee, Okla.); Edward E. Reardon, ex-super-
intendent Absentee Shawnee Indian School, now attorney at law; 11.
Overholser, owner of Grand Avenue Hotel; O. G. Lee, vice-president
American National Bank; J. R. Keaton, ex-United States juago, third
judicial district; L. G. Pitman, county attorney of Pottawatomie
('Ounty; W. S. Pendleton, probate judge, Pottawatomie County,
Okla.; J. P. Boyle, vice-president First National Bank, Shawnee,
Okla.; H. B. Dexter, capitalist; A. N. Dext<*r, Htock dealer; W. Ci.
McKinnis, president Bridgeport Bank, chairman Republican county
central committee of Pottawatomie County, Okla.; Thomas McCoglan,
county treasurer.
Senator McCumber. Mr. Thackery, as I understand, you went dire(!tly from the
Interior Department to be an agent down there?
Mr. Thackery. I was transferred from Anadarko to that place.
Senator McCitmber. Were you previously in any of the Departments here?
Mr. Tiiackkry. I never was employed in Washington, but nave been in the Indian
service for fifteen years.
Senator McCumber. As what?
Mr. Tiiackkry. Well, I be^n at the bottom, as a laborer, and I gradually worked
up and have occupied some eight or ten different positiouH.
Senator McCumber. And you have been continuously in the Indian service? ln>w
lone?
Mr. Thackery. Fifteen years.
Mr. Bentley. If the committee please, touching on the question of lease money,
which is very inijxirtant for theHC Indians, I wish to say that they need moni'V.
The seawon i« advancing and they can not make a crop unlcjHH they gt^ their Icane
money. 1 would like to ask Mr. Thackery if he knows of any rciason why their
money can not be forwarded through a national bank near where they live, to he
paid to them.
Mr. Thackery. I have suggested to the Department in previous correspondence
a year or ho ago that they Hhuuld detail an oiiicial of the Department to make the
payment in person, so that there could be no suspicion that the Indians did not
ATTAnts or TBB jfimciy kickapoo oihajsb. 196t
Wemmmm
\ vM it&oK t&rtiT laid m/L mciehnHl t
Bkvuct. W«fie tbcy is vrnm^
Hr. Tkackzzt. 5^. ar: iJbe Ka(ciE:^iM» cm BOt vm*. «& fv ai I kB9«r. I fccMJ s
Hint ttg ^^ y.m:3?n«jira i^isi ifer c^ sisii reccrre ibor c&fKia. aod I pus tke maSMB
V': *ib^ DfyanBEbara db§ nj: SEmfMBc I par aa ladiiB flbW Vr dbiwi^ aad I kU feis
sinr bubC ivtbsa fttTSrtoa? T^wer lawl I urac. Tlacs I lui&t- ii&k^ fmBpaika t&dtfite
iidii it., cnftfecr i^jszl oioc i&Ky ifticiBlki bc: anR: tiaa iiier ln«frtiBTif meiehncii tK msBc;'.
3»«<-.i»£pSi V. EiH^ FiML. T-QL.. vitoif; tfe Isdiaaf onsld n^ and v^xttrm ift«B to 1
iriu'^ Ttna^nt.. if pn^iatj eK^wTBUd. vsislti sew pemst asr acfkm to htt f~~
HCkStfC ICS. tnr lift ?^>->«t*i«
SsiBKbrx Gajcbc^ I ffB^'^jBt tloc If ttsC ■■lipr ihcr jiBndktMB «r cwtwi «f Ife.
Mr TaLATTTrr Y«s. I aat mrigf lin^ mum attisMi ci tfcc Dcfagnwn t
Ms-- Brs^nxT. WliflL I vat apoa I ^ad tiiM vanr aad ■& ^^^»fcaiai vis aoadie bjr ite
I^^^ttnaueir.- I laoc i&k- ladtnaf i&pgqadb Ea^ ram.
lb-.. TjE^nrrrr R:^ hobbj uncn- m ^Lsmxf at iftttt imbe?
l£r E13PXLCT. W<)HiL23 if trnti&iia^aPtnriMdjaiev' '.< ibci^
I -.hr^'r sr, 122KI Ll^I**-. TlOf hu&2Mm ko^U MBODMr Urst*-.. pn^oo^ kmBBtM at J^wv
•afiit* JBiii yjna r»£sBM v^» jay Iisl.
r>^!u»r.;r Ir. jt-'iof. Yva my. Mr. B'sriikfT. dtst j«cni Imj i&u nt«r bf dbc* nrd ia
Mr hT%TLXT. y^. msz vatcr k a^j&d ia Mcxkn* Vt ijb^ dsj. A daj-^ vasitr m
iLi^ -.i "tit*- CLTw'ji. ^K**"- ir*- b'.'-Ki:: ax ^ainnF' -aatiw ".« a -diiii lias fr.Tr^ a r^dtmoMt
U h yhrz tc-jtirt ■*> pj ia»t isi i»: ^ Bk* 4&^ Tw«E3Tr4i«iz' Bkhzs *flb'ib dar far
»«i^'x IrrYSB. Ha^v- zxnir^ laad ^ciei vid& ifcc iirBier--«^2b a agixK^
Mr i:^x:»'7!i£T. A ^esx 2 -aatcr fe»a a dstdi fif tikda aacr asiptcK. I lioQSik. abeat 13i
Soik^'x Im^ofs b I2«a« act aaiT rde abovt k? la «ar vjtmeFj^ tar snoBaiice. jfoa
irjT Ma, :s£S, dt wsz^. w±x^ 3f mzyi^mtsA Vj ht casae^ to ass^teatc aa ao^c- 1# land.
jfr Bzsn^T. Ii if -dsSeresa ladcr Spaissab rc^. inr. A ^jomaarssmj la Mcxica
aHZiiiitf. ssii 'jiASi lij^j ptsicikciL i:r a «icat:iaBh<:tL <]tf ]!aii<s lixkS if mup^jmnc to |r^ to 3i
liGEir.cii. I* if CJTi^ftfd 2xr«'. HO* ps^K. estof^tt liib* litf- jtujtr.z**- H.Tifl if Lh^^ is: ^ir.aiaBa-
air.T Tni zbtt lura. iiCid liac irt tiyiigiaL ir-t i^,«ag:in «i 'dkint ttf ▼sTutr. W*- xa^v
tf^' ir «fClC'' iftir»» '^ ±ijcr ixnoL htzxi. <r pecfta^ Bfipe. Aoid W ia-rf:. I jiid^ t«>&- fir
ifusuj^zx M'.^TKirz- I ^.tr'V libsr irbJc; 'qfagaa«£( if -mtgetilg^^ 'jufrr iiA^f- a ^mA Trade
i--r liiffiL V. jr. v' M.*Tj':r. liaa ".: aaj i«%. ' I -ai^ ▼* iti»t ii Irniit mip* dedEaaa* fir
cxite'^. Jci-.'^jwir* taf V. Tilt ♦lacv.TiiBr df i^ok Mcid*!af2. lfez<af
Mr r^r^-Turr Ti^e^ t?» iyar j-.nne 2«c. li liaf -ckj — I 6- ir.n isr.-r ir.-v TihaUe
iat«r '.ASL-ni'.cT -y-.fJiC be — I d: n'X la.rrV ".ij^ is* lirzii*?*. tns "ibi»7- -w^n: dc'aa
'jusn hZiZ 'JljfTf «kj "lio.* liifTT ittT^ 2i:<i *it«: itj zvSsjs Ibcii ri ucnr •■'"ir^rrrTr liaa
lira "riJj*7' ':z, M*n-i'r. . Ti^ej sk-a- 'JiJk ^^-5* ZT'-'aiiir :«• li* pr^^i^rrT
SJcaxiS.'jr'M'.'CTicirjL. Ti*r* ki^ '.ni*er hLtrlsxyrxA ^/wi^ vuss^ «»• •iuepe'?
3£r Bi^T^-rr. Y**.
Seuf-:r Mf?TXJri. C'^itr liac iboK lias ^j»2i* fr:»iL Okfikiiioa'*'
Mr B 13 TUT y*a. Ti* lii-izsi* EjifjkM^xj^ V11: ▼-«!»■ Iffe Sirtr j»sa^ hg:. bsT*
ai'jr*a»ii!fi "-'- 4'X C*iit Lr.:iii?»»d aac «rr*^::TT-fiii Kjixtji-.K* *afsk^i ?ac*:*J?% tr. lias
•L-n»t lilid ▼*?* >5h -Lli*?* TfiitSl lilCBBr Oiilit-.CIA E^'.Jut^if^'Jf ▼♦«: IkJDK. k-»-fcT fnttt
lit*?* •-7 ir-* Tzxjvt "viii K* •±i¥r» 2»:nr ^-^ ii.n "riJir. v. -r.'iii^ -:»*»•. k v. liit Vu'.itti
•<ur>« Lit! n if k ':^ --»e*na:c :€ •rii%r.i*Br ibeat Iiit ttrtf is* T^mrrr^i v. cjs^owe :f *J:i«r
UL ^ii»r ptn '.t kij jTiTzhr :z. M*ii'rv ^: r»*:.:r:i r: jt ^.^"m*¥: :€ -^ wSr-j^r-^tzir} -.iter
ij.'v •■*»»^ 111*7 ^"^^ *ft«'.'"jr?«i iki*"i kiiii «r.n a JKar: I tn cyu.. 1 -.iitT- vil fTAj ib^r*- ijnd
>ji:»:ii*r limr Hj»i li*^ L^fcarunftci aeaa liiecr 'jfisaat m-.tn^j v: liiKs. nf lasi af it
19r)8 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
treatment of their aCfairs in this country that they became diBsatisfied over there, if
any were dissatisfied.
I think it is true, as Senator McCumber suggests, that the whole matter rests largely
on whether they are goine to be treated fairly and whether they are going to receive a
proper value in Mexican lands for the lands tney had in this country. That is a matter
lor the committee to judee.
Senator McCumber. We have not got very definite evidence about it. This matter
of how they acquired land and water is a little hazy to me.
Mr. Bbntley. This Indian here present/ Johnny Mine, has lived there six years
and is familiar with the land.
Mr. Thackery. There is no better land in Oklahoma than the average Kickapoo
allotment. Why should they want to go to Mexico and give up that land, that I would
state under oath is much better than the land in Mexico, ana go down there and get
other land, even if it were as good, and have to irrigate it?
Senator McCumber. This Indian here said that their children died very rapidly
in this country, and that they lived longer down there.
Mr. Thackery. The real reason is probably this, that there is more game there
and that they can live as Indians.
Mr. Bentley. Is not tnat a good reason?
Senator McCumber. If you give them "Indian conditions" they will be all right,
for we certainly have not miproved the Indian with all our civilization. He was at
heart a better Indian when he was alone and lived as an Indian.
Mr. Thackery. I am satisfied that those who are there expected to get this land
and hold it in conunon. That will not be the case, however. They will soon be
surrounded there by white men. I believe they have a right as individual citizens
to go where they please, but as an officer of the Government I would like to see tliat
they are protected. If they are going to have title there, let them get a proper title.
Mr. Bentley. The Indian is as sensible as you are that the white race will follow
him across the Rio Grande and, realizing this condition, he had selected an ideal
place for his home, which, however, we were not able to secure.
This land that they had been hoping to secure is land that they themselves have
selected. It is land that the older ones among them have known for forty years.
It is an enormous basin surrounded by high and rugged mountains and by a country
that can never be occupied by white men. It is conglomerate and limestone, and
the same character of country as is found across the Rio Grande River in Texas.
This basin contains 238,000 acres of fine grazing and farming land, with numerous
wells and artificial lakes, and now has grazing upon it more than 10,000 of white-
faced cattle. Two hundred and fifty he& of American horses are on it, with several
thousand goats in the mountains. The canyons are timbered with linwood and hard
maple and timber that is indigenous to New York and Vermont. The natural increase
of tnese cattle would provide the Indians with their beef and they would never miss
it. The surplus cattle that would be annually sold would provide for their limited
necessities other than the farm products they would raise. Were they permitted to
acquire this property, as I have stated before, these Indians would have a home and
land long after the other Indians in this country will have nothing.
Senator McCimber. There will be electric railroads there after awhile.
Mr. Bentley. Not in that conglomerate country, sir. There are some very rich
silver mines in the mountains surrounding that property, but I do not think the
miners would ever trouble the Indians. We might supply them with beef. There
is only one disadvantage in that section of country in Mexico for cattle raising. The
grasses are fine and nutritious, but when cattle are raised at an altitude of 5,000 feet
and are then taken down to the railroads at an altitude of 2,000 feet, they become
subject to the Texas fever and often die. This tract of land that the Kickapoos want
to have lor their permanent home raises as fine cattle as are raised in the world, and
they would not have to irrigate the land there to raise wheat. But that has been
beyond our means so far. This country is 175 miles off the railroad. The basin
there is inesauite grass and is beautiful grazing country. I think the Indians could
live there inuefinitely and I do not know any other place so suitable for Indians.
Mr. Thackery. 1 might state, in conclusion, that the feeling 1 have as an officer of
the Interior Department is that the matter of this emigration of these Kickapoos in
reality is barked bv a dtsin* on the part of certain people to acquire title to their good
lands over in Oklahoma. If I am wrong in that tne whole matter is practically over
with me. 1 feel that there is such a desire to move these people with the ultimate
view to getting that land.
Mr. Bentley. Does not the white man get the land just as fast as the Indians die?
Mr. Thackkry. No. sir.
Mr. liENTLKY. Dv nui the traders get ever} dollar that the Indian receivts for his
lauds?
AJTjUU or THE MEXICAN UCKAPOO I3nnA9Sw 1969
3€r. Ts^rxi-rr Thasn iri* ▼liasC I w«kM ri<!> *iiu4 »ip wvh — due n&rj»^ ar* nh^ rxamm
T^»^^ZHi. h»r: V; jrrr*- nfewa pfr»pi*r per,fi<wr.nr;ts;. In ia -mcsmritilj 2rT*?a ^sm. «fea« aqr
Fk^^tk a, Tkftin^Ea^r.
lI%tTK.T!if ^Xnm 3$C3KAYK,
S«2*sr^ Tixxia.. I>; rets kariw Mr, B^yasua^, r^i Tj^q^jp: Y^m, T«t.?
Si^cdcvx TzLixsL T*!! iif Tftas j^>« Insow ibrjtitn him afi«i TrfSists Tr.ii shiak *fc<ific blau
BtikcJc i^: Ejtt^ Fai« T*x., huh\*^.iat^ iai iBac hack -arisB. ai cinafc^r •'-rf af^sfJftoye*
w^,oi I kni'.TT, TSd* ffii5^«rarji:c. -^.^ cnpr-.c*^ <tr,nriiiir.r. en fcitf pan m. ir> £air a« I korj^r,
''>r 1221 irfii'j*«rfi. zhit ±cR wtsae^^ie vp^zaai \m ^.han^^er and. m, ^^irjgx^j^ c< k -Jiajg I
It, aatj b^ zr:K^*rT tx sk^ v. «r^^ hri'Tr & kni>-arfcf^ ^.€ '.ii^ae fj^,t« w!i« firK br>«3^;&i to
3fr. .*t.iTL-£-« 5y,ci* u:2ii»- 1^> cc -w^i raTfed 5ii nay scuKuariti ^ilua ^,iwt3Eft ^ens&HSiCB
Ia<fia.-nft win iad r»cir-T*fi fer>m CHtMr>iaa* to 3fen»y>, aoff nw&srf ^At&os. Hh sukHi
fii»-r ha*i ^j^ffT, -rr-ahu^ -..--• pitT riu^-r i^^f-r.*. I istb^d w!iatf w cfeft 4rffiiaxky aaiff elwijr
wi-'Ji h pi:i»*r 'f uv,r:i*^j Vi «'r.S*f.t fi-ir iTL sari rJ^fty wd ofi-. eia£ nfeor* *^r>«i&i btjC £*
''/^ r3iffia:n. Af.tir? -iiar. b^ ''i<%'c:arji'f#tfi riiai: *a«:fi Irufiac ^tnld ^fij m. piir»ii fcr clw
It »Ct TZ2 0 r #J-.^*J.-f ^T ihr.tr'. ''.rjl^ -LX>5t-
ICr rcATSi.^ T::^i.r, .v^-j hi*r I *ci ctilT' TVisma^ I '&'>. sriC ksr^Tr whxr^ part '-jtf
OkliU-j-.tna ,i: \A I iti-.'-^l «T pr*i:r.T nearly * !*Jbr>naair! ciiSfti. ^ lt, i^* Jtr. ^ Tp VjTr«ii
rntnoii^'CL «:r-«*: i.^! --.rafri'.ci ;:z. 'sr;tfini*s» CMk«3«3 ^>riX«i Vj^ ^rM. zo tad ^ sii^iiivi ''asl ^d
^r.:ir^-.r Yi-Lzx '7*lj:r:z. ^. j^si rsiftan hy " h*." "ii**- 0-.ci:rii«u-.t>^r^
ii-i«»r»-:l«*ft ,- ?;-br> Pi**^ -vii^r*^ 'iirty -r^r* k^r.-jn liifi wiutf^ liliiy <^r,Til<i *a«lT ^ac.^
r «ia-f "/. -.A..» r«i.r. 't.^.^.^rj Tftc, hibi fpob*Ti vi au*- ih#:»r. l^.. ' S'oriHj j'^n si.;* au»-
wt^ Mr- ILi^ii-pp. •vtr.d I had ns^^r suftt ^>**6-.!W.. H^ u.ui :n* ^iuiS hi^ wm arx '•rllai^
to r»%mr: zt^ rsr.ri^y ,n. -JUi.', "5«y . "iias hin pjQrprj*» w^»i — «*■*£!. 2iCiTr, I «ir> see like to J»jr
1970 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Indiana back to Oklahoma. I said: ''Why, Mr. CommuBioner, it aeema to me you
have no right to compel these Indiana to five in Oklahoma if they prefer to live in
Mexico, and I do not see how you have any risht to withhold money which you,
yourself, admit ia due them." He said he would oe glad to have that tnbe come into
court if they thought they had rights, and he would like to see a suit brought to deter-
mine the Question.
Coming back to the mention of Mr. Bonnet, I said to him that I have known Mr.
Bonnet quite intimately for a number of years; that he had been a county judge in
Maverick County, and that he had been an employee of a bank, and the head of a
hank, down there for a number of years, and I had never heard a whisper against his
character.
I was also asked with reference to the character of the lands that these Indians
had settled on in Mexico. Now, I can not answer that question very positively. I
have been to Muzquiz, which is their post-office, and wnich is quite near the land.
It so happens that I was there in November last. I went down to examine a mine
that haa been submitted to me. I was in the town of Muzquiz, and in the vicinity,
and was on the ranch of agovemor who sold (Mut of the lands that these Indians lived
on. I saw some of the Ejckapoos at Muzquiz and some of them on the road going
to Muzquiz.
I also inquired about them. In fact. I had forgotten that any Kickapoos lived
there or that they had come from Oklanoma. But seeing them and hearing them,
I asked how they were doing— how they were getting on, and I was told that they
were doing very well, mostly fishing and gathering nuts, etc., for a living; that the
lands are very good, and that the only difficulty in the way of successful farming is
the lack of rainbdl. A good deal of urrigation is done in that vicinity, and where
the land is watered they raise a full crop.
I met a Mr. Weller in Muzc[uiz, who is a citizen of Kansas City, but has a ranch
at Muzquiz. I remember distinctly my conversation with him, because he submitted
a request that I nominate his son to a cadetsKip at West Point, and Mr. Weller invited
me to come to his ranch this fall on a shootmg expedition. Having been a ranch-
man, and having lived all my life practically in the West, I was mformed of the
character of the country, and I asked him about the grasses and products generally,
and he spoke in the highest praise of the quality of the land that these Kickapoos
had acquired, of its productiveness, and of the amount and kind of indigenous grasses.
The country looked particularly well when I was there, because that was a rainy
spell, and they had had a remarkably good year on account of the abundant rainfall.
No doubt the land would not appear productive to a man looking at it after a period
of drought.
Senator Tbllbr. Is Eagle Pass in your district?
Mr. Slatdbn. It is not now, though formerly it was. I represented that territory
for six years in Conffress. and am a nequent visitor to Eagle Pass, and have a great
many warm personal friends there. The people down there do not seem to remem-
ber always that I have ceased to be their immediate representative.
Senator Tbllbr. They still call on you?
Mr. Slaydbn. Yes. It is a matter of personal friendship more than anything eli<e.
Senator Tbllbr. ^^liat do you know about the game down there?
Mr. Slatdbn. I was told by Mr. Galan, a son otthe former governor and the owner
of a large ranch in this vicinity, that the game was very abundant. I covenanted
with him to go down there on a shooting expedition* He ia to be in Washington
to-morrow.
Senator Tbllbr. Will he stop over here?
Mr. Slatdbn. He is soing to stop over; yes.
Senator Tbllbr. Will you see him?
Mr. Slatdbn. Yes; I am interested with him in a mining matter.
. The Cbairman. He knows about this particular land, does he?
Mr. Slatdbn. He was bom and raised in that vicinity, and owns a ranch there now.
The Chairman. We would be glad if he would come nere and tell us what he knowd
of that property.
Mr. SLATDBN. Then I will request Mr. Galan to come here to-morrow morning.
The Chairman. We shall be in session from half past 9.
Mr. Slatdbn. If his train arrives in the forenoon, as I believe it will, I will see him
and request him to come up here.
Senator Dubois. Do you know anything about Mr. Bentley?
Mr. Slatdbn. I never heard of him until a few da>-8 ago.
S4'nator Tbllbr. You can call for Father Ketcham if you wish. He knows ^m\(^
thing about Bontley. I should like Father Ketcham to come. He had an intiTvi»'W
with the Commissioner. I have a copy of a letter that was written ti> htm by Father
Andrew, down there, a Catholic pri«et« Father Andrew took pains to gu down to
^t'Xico, as shown by his letter.
AFPAIB or THE JfEXICAS KICKAPOO fSTMAXSu 1$^71
CoxMirm 09r Isthax Arr aiul
UrSXIXD StaTBC $ESJiTlE,
•EAXKMKSPr or MB. ASOmMM CUUBA «AIAX.
S«2kn.cr TciiLZB . WSn^re d& j>wi Inner, )fa-. Gala?
&mk.icr Ttujol. Vo jvm kcKvar ib& bmd tkat Ins 1m«b boo^ reomslj !;i?r ib^
Mr Cauls- Y*«
S^nshS/x T-MSAOL. Wbai » dait dnEKUr «< tkc- bad— wftiat load <tf laud k it?
fi9[ft>Li^ k pirx 1^ act c*!^c h^.^^fiAM 'x •seai^ vlucli IwloaipHi to out mm^ awl tb^a «r^
^ji-^d^td. I ij^^yinr*r iLkS li^ |iast v1dc& tbe Kiffcapwr* boo^Sit wm fm^thitni <€ ^m-^^t-
S^jTSTi^ '.t 'Ijh Io^^sihAm^ I aci ftcA Bare, but I tiimk it miait aoMmC to aboos tU(A
Mr ^i^Ti.rzs. TIdl H. Jibovt S^OOO aenL
Sfcuo. 'X Tzujcz. Oov Buidh of it k ayiffaffial land?
Mr. <yjL:..£j. It soot l*^ aVjiot a liird ^^jtf ik» wfacAf. prcip^ffTT. I mppQKL
ji^tzar^x Jnz^jL. Do T<jc sftac ^ ^ht ^MO acreir?
Mr, Outlets . 3wo- ^L^ tii- mi«c^ ir'.y^ny-
.SecdfT^cr TrrgriL- Ozi^-^^iuTd 'C< ib^ viiclit- estas^ k afncnhmsal lawi?
Mr. Gaulx. Ytft: aad ib& whsAt yv^syavf maoA be abc«t fdidea ix tv^ntj ^.o-
Mr ffi^Txzs, SaA;u»' T<&r ncs^d to Invar vbat pait. vbat {MrccBSapt^. <f tin*:
lioiC V-rjceii hj 'j^ Kj^.ikapoica k i^ri-'.'uiDajaJ laod — jw^^'baii^T?
Mr OiLts- 'l 'itjziJk ai/cna '.cie-diiri <rf ti* ^iXO aicn».
S«-i:ii7«':r 7n;ixt fiiv*- :LfTr aity arjcua- nfioc arrJt tbk laad?
Mr 0^:~£S. Yi^j':Ai^':ixwx^ian^Aixamk^^Q0urenmiteBL. Tbt aat«r k ^ iiMZLi
ti*»r .Sfc-tej* KiTtr.
.S«£ik<v^ 1T1LZ3L. iM^m lidfi ^ vitb i2Mr laad?
Mr. G.Ai-£Jf- y«>
S^aoocr Tniint If ibat a& afncchnal eoortfy—vhcB Ikcj haT<r vato?
Mr. Ojti^ts. Y<t
?s^*i&vx Tngym, Rc*v k tbc paitsrer laad?
Mr Oujls. It k r'-^A jjneir::^ kcwl.
^ftukTucr TniriL 1% ijaa 2f tb%- dmuslie?
Mi Ofif.s. 71k»^ dirarut- k j<Xfd: ^:h< Eibe it k in Texas.
Mr fyjLLjLj^, Oxz^ -mhitaJi. frsgar ^MEMt, l^atM, aiklk. buky, «■!■.
Mr "JJLULS Y*«-
?i«avjr Tn^^jt- Garie&acdl?
Mr- Galjls Y^
S*!i4.^'.r I>-i>c«. Fr-^u?
*>*!ia«v,»r I>-:fcO)!i§. B*r?i*ft asid ssobZI frail*?
Mr <yf: >y. Y*«.
S*'^*.'--.?' Tri£^i H-.-r xMig idkV*: T.ri t,^,^ acqoauBt^d wiA tdbat land?
3tr. Of: f.»- I Tirf trjn •uii****'.
bisi^vx Zinrt Jyjm iz, "JjhS. i«S2Sii<xiM0od?
Mr ^jAius Y*3t
^«iik.v,r Zh-LLXHL 'R"L*r*: dc t^jti r»d* ixm?
^tI 'y±ULjk. li. M'»ir..%r»7. M^x-'x-.
Mr •i.triiA'. Firi'.tL il.*: i'x t-aV :r;g az: ^xp'^fc-ari^g^ Hi GaSas'f I'ad^EK.i*- i« :r
ti«% r.:::*- :^ M-.^Tu^r^n- iZii i* botf li^ »s««t* iii li**- •»i<.ii::.tT 'rf M-ia^-sir. a&d f5.**^i* ik
3tr 'Vii-tA y**
7^ '' ?:±i3tx±jt. Itj jvu kn'-ra- aujiiimr aosvcs iL^i^ Kkkap9» dvaz. tSy^f*-*^
Mr Orl.L-<i' Yr*. I «*: lie^riL U*B*: T*fT frtc'3*^rjT.
3lr <ytif.» Tlj*nr wi^c:. v^ i>%V^u:rir akcif lioe^j. Tbej 4o irjl iavi- i- y :r:».'..-
»-rJL hSLjifAj. 1 i«*ri-*r iteari oitzrf OTtiAt-
Tia^ *.Bt.ir.v±3(. Rw z«»Ar k tvev p^Moe to iLk kzxd ibat \L*rr V.'l^'; "^
Mi. Gjki^s, It k agjfrjBiTT^ In lacs, I vac p'-^ to ^ iLe^ £hz«d zu^a:^
1972 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Slatdbn. He wanted to buy the land himself.
The Chairman. What Ib it worth?
Mr. Galan. I believe that unleee I explain to you the division of the land you
would not understand. It is divided into thirty days of water, and the price of the
land— of this particular property — ^is three or foiur thousand dollars (in Mexican
money); that is, the price of me water. I believe they bought it at that price. That
is my impression.
Senator Dubois. With you in Mexico the land goes with the water. It is differ-
ent in our country.
Mr. Galan. Yet.
The Chairman. I should like to know what the land which they bought it worth?
Mr. Galan. I would buy it at the same price.
The Chairman. Do you know how much it cost?
Mr. Galan. The amount that they paid?
The Chairman. Yes; do you know now much they paid?
Mr. Galan. I understand $20,000 or $21,000.
The Chairman. And you think it is worth that?
Mr. Galan. Yet.
Senator Teller. You contemplated buying the same piece?
Mr. Galan. Yes; I would buy it now if I could get it.
Senator Gamble. When you say $20,000 or $21,000, do you mean Mexican money?
Mr. Galan. Yet.
The Chairman. Your family owned thit land once, did they not?
Mr. Galan. Yes; it was divided into two lots. One I had, and the other was
given to the one that sold it.
The Chairman. Do you know anything yourself about the title of the property?
Mr. Galan. Yes; I hold part of the title.
The Chairman. And you think the title is good?
Mr. Galan. I think so.
Senator Gamble. Has any question ever been raised in regard to the title?
Mr. Galan. No, sir; as I say, I own a part of the property.
The Chairman. Each part comes throu^ the same title?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Sutherland. Each formed part of the original estate?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. Do you know how many Kickapoo Indians are down there?
Mr. Galan. I do not know, but I suppose 50 or 60 or somewhere near there.
Senator Teller. Have they been doing any farming down there?
Mr. Galan. Not until they acquired the property.
Senator Teller. What time of year do you b^:in your fanning down there — in
the spring?
Mr. Galan. In March and April.
The Chairman. Is the water system there an artificial irrigation plant?
Mr. Galan. Yes; it is derived from the Sabinas.
The Chairman. The plant is there and the works are there?
Mr. Galan. Yes, and the dam.
The Chairman. So that they could go right on and use it now?
Mr. Galan. Yes; of course.
Senator Teller. Is it an old ditch? .
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. Do you know how lone this country has been settled; how long
people have been farminff in that vicinity?
Mr. Galan. My erandfather did farming there about a hundred years agu.
The Chairman (to Commissioner Leupp). Would you like to ask him any ques-
tions, Mr. I>eupp?
Commissioner Leupp. Yes. (To Mr. Galan.) Do you know whether this property
has been paid for yet?
Mr. Galan. No, sir.
Commissioner Leupp. You mean that you do not know?
Mr. Galan. I do not know.
Commissioner Leupp. What is the character of the land that is not farming land?
Mr. Galan. It is one of the best lands in Mexico for grazing purposes.
Commissioner Leupp. Is any of it timbered land?
Mr. Galan. On the sides of the river.
C/onunissioner Leupp. But no spreading forests?
Mr. Galan. No; it is considered the best land for cattle.
Commissioner Leuff. That it, simply at grazing land?
Mr. Galan. Yet.
AFFAIBS CfW THE MEXICAJir KICXAPOO IXDLIXS. 1973
Lkufp. 3M tarnatmal hsjr?
Mr. Gaiax, Ye£.
Ccnxmiakner LrriT. Doei niiwril lay giov daere al»?
Mr. Gaul>*. Y«r.
*>«niiwnc<ag Lmr. SUt« csole bees nyasd daere v» azzj luxe extent Iwlin?
Mr. OA3.kS. I luTe aome ciltle tboe.
OccDsdncixr Letit. Y<n bmTe than on die KickipQo Imd?
Mr. Galax. No: <m zeht tmjx^
Mr. Si^TDzsK. 11% Mijkoeid rasxL.
Oirr.TTi-wwftccier LEnr. Hatc- tbme KSdcapwc unr fanle there mv. do jxm kiiov?
Mj Gaiax. I do iwt ki»c^-
Ser:fc3<cr Tziiizz. Do cstale nztd^ there iD viiater. or do jtm bame to take jonr
ciSiJe is Mijd ie«d theoxL ^ viioer?
Mr- Gai-as. Tbej raii is the fields iJl visser.
Sesos^ Tina Tx/ Are theme ujv kmau is tint nwgfihnfhood at afl?
Mr. Gaiax. XoDe. ez£ept on mj naadi.
Sffrrg/g Trrara- If there ^^xat m the momtaiBa— birda, etc?
3lr. GA1.A3C. Y«t.
Soas^x TzxL££. What kisd d fvate?
Mr. GA1.AX. Bear. axn33lai& Ikn^ and deer, and hiids.
ScDatcr Telleb. What Imd «f faune biide are there there?
Mr. GjkL^x. Wild tnrkej and quafl and dock.
Seoascr Thi-kb. Hov Ing a atreasn w the Sabino^
Mr. Gaulst. The Sabince Bnrer i»— I can veil jno t^ aayjuat of ^
Sena^bur TzixEX. Grreisf that.
Mr. Gaz-as. It H aboot ^ cobic metcoL
Scnascr Tellex. Thk dam pen ipeak of ie azspl j a dmEBon dam. I flappoae?
Mr. Galas. Yea.
Saav.r TziiLEX. To tuas the valer into dae di'^fda'^
Mr. Gai-ajp. Y«.
S^Tta-vir Tesxex- Abcn^t bcnr vide voold the soeam be in an ^lediaarj acnaon?
Mr. GtitK. It vr>u]d be aJy.>ct €0 fact acrui.
SaoA'.v TE12.EZ- Asd V.-*- die«p voold it be? I am net fpeakint^ cf flood tioae. bat
nf jBD nrdisarr tiii>t.
Mr. Gaiax . Is as ^sdisarr tisae toq omld hardSj tell bet vhat it ie a tooential
mnasL Is anszte pilacee a SKSer cr tvo. and daen a^nin three. *3r icmr. or fire.
Sesav.r Tehee. Yc<d are dc4 tpeaJas^ of feet, but of sM<^^t«?
Mr. Gaulx. C»f sieieas-
S?£ari.'.7 Teiz.ee. Do too kuc'r the prcfKftr of the Pkdxi Biaii-cm Cattle Companj?
3ir- Gtz tv. Y«e.
Sesui;!/.? Tellejl. Htt iir » thai frcm vhoe diere Kidcapcic# are xmiv located, and
frcca Ttrariasch?
Mr.'GiT.jv. Very iir. I cas iwt tcH yoo ezacdT. bot it ie isxnsk 160 to 200 mHea, I
S^Eifc.v:r Teliee. Wbu i§ ihe^ chaacter of the ociastrr over thfre. and d»e fhwacter
c€ *ixK rac-di?
Mr. GALAJf- Fcr si/.ick'*
S^Ejacr Tellee. Y**.
Mr. Gaijlx. G:icid. It bif pksiitj cf -rattier asd bar: sxiastais sayaaitt of water.
Secaa/.r Iziz^t^ It i? a r:»Cid place Vj raise cauk-?
Mr. Gi-^ fcx. Verr gy.Ka.
Sssfcr^x Tellex- Are tiCHere a£.v catde on h ixm?
Mr. GAi.A3f. Yet.
JNesa^ir TEHiEE- Do vca fcKrm- tlK- ^T\^n\ k4 that pr-peny"'
3ir. G».T f.y. Nc. fir: bn h » as extecfflve prnpenj.
SpE*.v.ff Tesjlee- Yi's d'.' nci kscnr the STJJsb'ar *:f acrpf ''.f hf-'Tar**?
Mr. Gaxax. Xc.
Secja.v:?' TziiEa. Wbt- -TWTif tiat iw.perty nov?
Mr. Gaias:. Tr-e ♦r.'=:pK:-Tr itaeil
SeiMttDT TEiiEE. T^e c^apasj I aaaned?
3lj- Gaiajc. Y**.
Sn3a3r.T TEiiEE. Are they Asaeritaus?
Mr. Gaiajc. Yes.
f^BatCT" TEiiEE. Wbat are -asile T^irth dcnrs ther* is the rj*-i£i.V.ei>«:«cd is v^iiiicli
T*»B live. *T ▼aJih^' wiygre tiiese Ky"Va&.ire bar* pr*:^* *
' Mr Gaulk What kind cfcattie?
1974 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO UTOIAHS.
Senator Teller. The cattle on your ranch.
Mr. 6 ALAN. Steers or cows or wnat?
Senator Teller. Well, take steers and take cows.
iii, Galan. a cow is worth from thirty to thirty-five dollars.
Senator Teller. In Mexican money?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. What is a steer worth?
Mjr. Galan. Thirtv-five to forty dollars.
Senator Teller, x ou say that that is a good cattle country?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. There is plenty of feed for cattle?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. What are horses worth there? I mean just such horses as you raise
on a ranch — common horses.
Mr. Galan. Twenty-five dollars, I guess.
Senator Teller. Is there anv difference in price between what you call a Mexican
horse and an American horse, aown there?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. Which is the highest in price?
Hi, Galan. The American horses are the nighest.
Senator Teller. They are a better kind of stock?
Mr. Galan. They are stronger.
Senator Teller. They are bigger?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. Everybody understands that these ponies are very different from
team horses— either carriaee teams or plow teams.
(Subeequentlv, at the close of the statement of Mr. Theodore Harris, the following
proceedings toox place:)
Senator Teller. I do not think I asked Mr. Galan about Mr. Bonnet.
The Chairman. No.
Senator Teller (to Mr. Galan). Do you know Mr. Bonnet?
Mr. Galan. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. How long have you known him?
Mr. Galan. Since I was a child.
Senator Teller. What is his reputation down there?
iii. Galan. I am a friend of him.
Senator Teller. Do you consider his reputation good?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Senator Teller. Do you consider him an honest man?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
Mr. Lextfp. Do you know the cashier of his bank?
Mr. Galan. No, sir; I have been to the bank, but I do not know him. I have seen
him there.
Senator Sutherland. Have you ever heard Mr. Bonnet's character talked about
or ouestioned?
Mr. Galan. No, sir; but it may be that the opinion I give may be considered
partial.
Senator Sutherland. Because he is your friend?
Mr. Galan. Yes.
The following letter subsequent! v received by Hon. Henry M. Teller from Mr. Galan
is ordered inserted in the record of the proceeaings:
The New Willard,
Washington, D. C, AprU 7, i906.
Hon. Henry M. Teller,
United States Senate.
My Dear Senator: Since giving my testimony yesterday before the committee,
where you interrogated me, it has occurred to me that my statement in relation to the
number of Kickapoo Indians might not be understood as I intended. In our country
in speaking of the number of yiorsons in a colony or community it is ususJ to refer to
them as heads of families, and what I intendea to say was that there were 50 or 60
families of the Oklahoma Kickapoos, and I ask that the record be corrected so to read.
In connortion with the Kickapoos I desire to state that my father was the command-
ing oflicer of the forces during the war with the Comanche and Apache Indians when
thoy worp flrivon from the State of Coahuila in 1880. Those Indians were fierce and
murcifroiip. and \ory unlike the Ki<"kapons, who were the advance guard of our army.
They proved to be reliable men of great cunning and, I think, of courage equal to any
MWWASaS OP THX MKITCIW KICXAFOO tmiAXliL 1975
typed aigii,«dthgy,bjmiwi of iIhw uniHi, wmeiSbentmdwm
Dy oor pccyle.
IMemncfoMr. Bcndgy , h^d I bggp queitiiiiied M Ihe hcMing I Aoald h«i» beai
gbd to lui¥« Mid ^at be m vefl aad hiwfxMj kiwvii in oar Slate, nd ^at dicae m
lAetMDt in mr desk at Mfjoteie^ from Mr. Bcntley aAiug Ae nriee of aoBM
lands that I ^yvn D^iiar Miuqnu. Mexioo. and to my prmmtd iaomled§B he
meadj too^t to •cqxdnt title for tbcw Indianc to wane of the bert pnipcftifla
Tfsat^^: and laiijiiii^ yoor enmmiUff tikat aaj infamiatioa I may bare wfll b«
cLfKrfallT grren. I am.
Very rwpectfally.
Onanrrmm oar InxAS AFrAina. Usmn SrAns Skvaxb,
WinkmfUm, D. C, MmdkSl^ 190$.
9r ATzifsvr or Ms. Thbodosx Hawna,
Seoatisr Tnxn. Where do jon lire?
Mr. Hakxis, At San Antonio, Tex.
f^xaofx TsLun. What it jicor oocopatian?
Mr. BjLWKza, I am an attArney.
S^niatcr IriLEtL Do jon kaf/w the pt'.yaty of tbe Vyedtm Blanea Qrtde
in MexLo-^?
Mr. Hakkis. Tea.
^t^catfit TnxKX. Of what do<s it oxuitf ?
Mr. Hjlkkis. Tber hare a little OTer200iXX>acrea of land, and Aejbnvv at
aly^ct 3>/j9> be«l of cattle on it.
Sweater TzzxcK. Dr> yrja call that a 9G«:>d cattle coontry?
Mr. Hakvxs. a £nt'<ijef canle crjxmtry; yee.
5<Ba£r>r TnxKX. 1>> j<o»i know tbe va^e d cattle over tiiere on tbat nndi?
Mr. HjLftazs. Mr. Galan ttated cvn^ctly, m I fmdetifid it, aboot ^0 to Hi 1
Seoator Tsu-xs. KmKturan hrjofm woold bring moie tban Mexican?
Mr. Hjikk». Yea
5ex£a;:r.r Telleb, They do tbat in Texaa?
Mr. Hiairr.f. Y^a.
Secjcrr TzLLEK. Toa sar tbat tbey bare 204MI0 bead of caldef
Mr. BjLKxa. Yes. Tbey ar» all imprvred cattle^ too.
Seoasrjr TEixra, Wha: ire ifaey— wbhe face?
Mr. Haaaa. They are HereforSf.
SecatrjT TxExnt. where is tbe heaviqaarters of tbat com|MU>?
Mr. Hakezs. I presame tbe o<Ece woold be in San Antonio. Tex.
Seoator Ieluhl Do jcn kasw tbe pnmdffot of tbe Border National Bank, at Ea^
PMa. Tex.— 3lr. B<}fmet?
Mr. Hjleeis. I bare met bim: I do not kiKrv him well.
Secjxux iTLLtM, Do j*n kzkow aavthizig ahriot his cbancter. by repotation?
Mr. Haekzs. He has a rofA repntaticci.
S^csetcr Teixek. Do ttxi knew wbedier he has lired there aome time or not?
Mr. HxEEia. I think he has lired there qnivt a number of yean.
Seoxurjr Irr^ots. Do yoa ki»w anytbizn^ aboot tbe Kicki^jO Indianf ?
Mr. Hjiaz». Xo: I hare feen tLem there, btrt do not Im&w anytbisg ik^jr^t. them.
I hare been dr>wn in tbat co^mtry a irrA deal.
Secatr.r Teixee. Hare j^>»3 been over in tbat tertion?
Mr. Haexxs. Jio: \mx ary>«it 3> miles arjxitb of it.
Secsary.r Teixee. I>r j-od call that a gcod codtry?
Mr. Haeel*. Yes: it is a fosn-clasi country.
Seoatcr S^teteelato. Are yoc pretty well aciq^xatnted with tbe place where
Mr. B<:«3iet liTes?
Mr. Haesu. Eseie Paei? Xo; I fc^jw fev^ral pefjpie there, but trA inurriaj^^ly.
I jiast port* nhn^iaii' there aarf ff/>p « & hr.^.el on =iy way to Mexirr,.
!!eTia&-jf' .^TrffEELAxn. Yen sav he hjs a zr^*? ''hinrr.er. H'.w -^id v-:*! E^am
tbat — in wiau war?
Mr. Haezxs. I Live heari Mr B.-T-r.e* dK;.**^ 'foTrn there by the per^ple in a
ipeiKifal way Hi* riftrk r-i* i zrA r«-p'i'A*.. .l
Seoatcr scTHEUUfD. I>.j*:T:.*eei by the perpfe Trhere.
AFFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO DfDIANS. 1977
was appointed gpecial agent and had charge of them. He had succeeded in gaining
their confidence and had got them to take allotments and begin to do something in
the way of settling down.
Senator Glabk, of Wyoming. How is a special agent appointed? Is he appointed
for one particular purpose?
Senator Teller. Mr. Bentley was special a^nt for this one particular tribe.
Mr. Pettigrbw. He was special agent for this particular band.
I wrote to a good many people that I knew in that country with regard to Mr. Bentley.
at that time, and every report that I got was exceedingly favorable. That gooa
impression has continued. I believe the only offense he has committed that the
Department objects to is that he has eained the confidence of these Indians. But,
I believe he is giving them an absolutely square deal. That is my opinion widi
regard to it, although 1 have no interest in the matter whatever.
Senator Teller. You spoke of those Kickapoos raiding our border. Are you
acquainted with the circumstances which brought that about — when they were
fleeing from Texas?
Mr. PEinoRKw. Yes. When the rebellion broke out they started for Texas, their
old home. They went to Texas first in 1824, and they took up a location on the
western border of the settlements of Texas, and the people of that loaaJity were in
favor of their remaining there because they thought they would be a shield against
the more hostile Indians of the plains. However, a troop of confederate cavalry
came along, and inasmuch as these Indians had very good horses, the confederates
thought these horses would be more valuable to the confederacy than the Indians
would, and they attacked the Indians in order to get the horses. However, the
Kickapoos whipped the confederates. Then they went away; and they burned
and raided all the way along, and they continued that all the time up to 1874. They
considered that they were entitled to do it because of being attacked by the white
people.
I Know something of the country in which they have located in Mexico. It is a ■
very fertile country. I do not know the particular track of land that they have,
but I know, generally, that country. If they have water they can produce everything
in great profusion.
Senator Clark, of Wyoming. How many of them are there?
Mr. Pettiorew. I do not know how many of them there were that wanted to go
to Mexico. There are several himdred in the whole tribe.
Senator Teller. A gentleman from Mexico said the other day that there were
fifty or sixty, but he sent us a note afterwards to say that he nfeant fifty or sixty fami-
lies. He said that they always speak in that country of heads of families, when
speaking of colonies.
Senator Dubois. When was your attention first called to these Kickapoos?
Mr. Pbttiorkw. I am not very sure about it, but if my memory serves me cor-
rectly it was about 189SI, I think. It mig^t have been a little later than that, but tiiat
is my impression.
Senator Dubois. They wanted to go to Mexico then?
Mr. Pettigrew. Yes. Well, it was the next year or two after that, that I first
learned that they wanted to go to Mexico and I advised them to go.
Senator Dubois. Mr. Bentley was connected with them then?
Mr. Pettigrew. Yes. llie first that I knew anything of them, Mr. Bentley was
here witli them, representing them.
Senator La Follbtte. How do they hold the land on which they are located in
Mexico now?
Mr. Pettigrbw. I do not know. They want to hold the land in common, and I
think they hold it l^t way, the land that they are on now. They always wanted to
hold their land in common.
Senator La Follette. Have they purchased the land they hold in Mexico?
Mr. PETTiaKjsw. All I know k wnat this Indian John (Johnny Mine) told me. He
mid that they had purcbafied ttiis land in Mexico but that they have been looking at
another tract farther up the Rio Grande Biver where they could get enough land to
a^emble all thetr people and where there was good hunting and fine grazing, as well
otft good agricultural land, b^idef^ some mountains, etc. — about a million acres, I
thiDk, altogcither.
It has been very difficult, as you know, to get the Indians of the Indian Territory
toamreTj-^Ier owserehip in common, and they make an argument pretty hard to answer
f"^ ^ f \i Its A uaiverml rule for all i^ankind. Tney argue that private ownership
I lif'y maka the regular i Bi^Eent which s^ms to be a natural one to these
r^t witpr, WM, and )a pijy^t not to be subject to private ownership.
1976 AFFAIBS OF THE BiEXIOAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Harbib. At Eagle Pass, oaming back and forth on the train, and we know
of him in San Antonio.
Senator Sipihbrland. How long has he lived there?
1^. Harris. I do not know, but I think quite a number of years; perhaps ten or
fifteen yeans, though I can not testify as to that.
Senator Suthxrland. When the matter has been discussed have there been any
oonflicting ideas about his character?
Mr. Harris. I never heard of any.
Gommissbner Lextfp. Do you know the cashier of that bank?
Mr. Harris. I do not remember his name, but I have met all the bankers.
Commissioner Lbufp. You do not know the cashier personally?
Mr. Harris. What is his name?
Commissioner Lbupp. I can not recall.
lb. Bbntlby. His name is Fennell.
Mr. Harris. No; I do not know him at all.
(Adjourned.)
COMMnTBB ON INDIAN AFFAIRS, UnTTED StATES SbNATB,
April 4y 1906.
Statement of Hon. Richard F. Pettigrew, former UNrrED States Senator
FROM South Dakota.
The Chairman. The committee will be glad, Senator Pettigrew, if you will be
S3d enough to give them such information as you have regarding the Rickapoo
dians wno moved down to Mexico.
Mr. Pettiorew. I have come here, Mr. Chairman and gentlemen, at the request
of Senator Teller, who asked me last evening if I would come before the committee
and make a statement with regard to the matter of these Kickapoo Indians, as I had,
some years affo, while chairman of this committee, looked somewhat into their affairs.
These Kickapoos came here represented by Mr. Bentley. He interested me
to the extent of looking him up and lookine up the Kickapoos. I found from
their history that they had been Mexican Indians, having gone to Mexico in 1824
and having been brought back to the United States and to the Indian Territory when
Texas was admitted to the Union.
When the civil war broke out they went back to Mexico. All other Indians joined
the Confederate forces, but the KickapK)os went to old Mexico.
After the civil war they made continuous raids upon American territory, killinc;
people and carrying away property, and finally the Government sent troops and
brought them by force to tne Indian Territory. That was in 1874.
These Kickapoo Indians have never been satisfied here. When the matter of
these people came before us, some time in the nineties, they refused to do anything
that the Government wanted them to do. They would not take lands, nor would they
take the money in the Treasury that belonged to them, and they insisted that they
would not have allotments. One, I think, of the Indians themselves, who were here
(and I met one of them in Washington the other day, who was here then), said that
they would not take this money in the Treasury because it was land money, and that
they never had agreed to sell their land, and yet the Government had taken it away
from them; that they considered that money to be sacred money, and that they
wanted it to buy land with, if they were to take it. I then tied the money up in the
Treasury, providing that they should have the interest on it and not the prmcipal.
That was what they wanted. Afterwards they came before the committee and tsiid
that they wanted to eo to Mexico, that they talked the Mexican language, the
Indian language, and tnat they preferred to live in Mexico.
After talking with those Indians somewhat, I made up my mind that the bept
thing for them to do was to go to Mexico, and I advised them to ao so, and I told them
zenfl of Mexico if they wanted to do so. The Indian that is here now remembered
that, and when I was here about two weeks aco he came to where I was 8topi)ing and
called my attention to it and wanted me to help him if I could. However, I decided
not to bore the committee with my statement, until Senator Teller ram<* to me and
niach* this request.
.\t tlie time I speak of, when taking ud the matter of these Indians, I looked up
Mr. Bentley. These Kickapoos. up to uat time, had never done anything. He
▲FPAIB8 09P THE MSXICAJr KICKJPOO IHIXIASB. 1977
tnm appomted ipecial ageiit and had chaige of Uftcm. He had soccccded in cainii^
tiwir confidence and hjud goi them to take aDoCmente and begin to do aometh^gm
tbe waj ol settling dora.
Sena&or Cuk&K, oi Wyoming. How ia a special agent ajyointed? la he appointed
lor one panicnlar parpuse?
Senator Teller. Mr. Bentlev was special aeent for this one particiilar tribe.
Mr. Peitigrev. He was spmal aeent for this pamcolar band.
lTT>>tetoagoodinanTpeoiHeihatI knevinthat oonntr^' vith regard to Ifr-Bentlej,
at that time, and e\ery report that I got was exceedln^y favorable. That gcmd
imprea»>n has o&DtiDu4d. I believe the only ofienae he has o&mmincd that the
Depanmoat objects \o 15 that he h^E eained the confidence <A these Indians. Bat,
I believe he is givinz th^fn an absolutely square deaL That is my optnkm with
regard to it. alilK ugb 1 have no intereBt in the matter whatever.
^en^xor Teller. You spoke d tboee Kickapooe raiding oar bonier. Are yoa
acquainted with the circomstancee which bitMi^it that about — ^when they were
fleeing from Texas'*
Mr. Pettigrew. Ycsl When the rebellion broke oat they atarted lor Texas, their
old home. They went to Texas first in 1S24. and they took on a location on the
western border oi the settlements of Texas, and the per.'i: le x4 tnat localirv were in
iavr^ ol their remaining there becax»e they thoo^t they would be a diie!d atg^'nst
the mote hostile Indians oi the plains. However, a tro^jp c4 oonfed<^raie cavaliy
came ak>ng. and inasmuch as these Indiana had very good horses^ the confederatea
thcioght these hoisef would be more valuable to the confedeiacy than the Indiana
woojd. and they attacked the Indians in order to get the Wjties. However, the
Kickaprxis whipped the oonfed^ates. Then they went away: and they buroed
and laided all tLe way along, and they oondnued that all the time up to 1S74. They
considered that they were entitled to do it becai»e of being attacked by the white
p^iple.
I know KHnething ol the ooimtry in which they have located in Mexico. It is a
rery fertile coantiy. I do net know the particular track of land that they hare,
bm I know, generafly. tha? oruntry . If they have water they can prwiuce everything
in great profusion^
Senator Clajlx. rj Wyomii:^. How many oi them are there?
Mr. Pettxorew. I do not nsow bow many of them there were that wanted to 90
to Mexico. There are several hundred in the whole tribe.
Senator Teller. A gentleoon from Mexico said the other day that there were
fifty or 9xty. but he sent us a note afterwards to say that he nkant fifty or sixty fiuni-
fies'- He Aid that they always speak in that coontry of heads oi funilies' when
speaking of ooloiue«.
Senator Dxtbois. When was your attention fizst called to these Kickapxie?
Mr. PKrncREw. I am not very sure about it, but if mr memory serves me cor-
rectly it was about 1B93. 1 think. ' It might hare been a little lat^ than that, but that
is my impressioxL
Senator Draois. They wanted to go to Mezioo then?
Mr. Pettigrew. Yes.' Well, it was the next vear or two after Uiat, that I fint
learned that they wanted to eo to Mexico and I advised them to go.
Senator Draoia. Mr. Bentley was ooimecied widk them then?
Mr. PmiGRET. Yes. The fint diat I knew anything of them. Mr. Bentley vas
here with them, representing them.
Senator La Follette. How do they hold the land on which diey are located in
Modoo now?
Mr. Pkitigrew. I do not know. They want to hc^ the land in commoii. and I
flunk thej hold it that way, the land that they are on now. They always wanted to
hold their land in common.
Senator La Follette. Have they porchased the land they hold in Mexico?
Mr« Pethgrew. AH I know is what this Indian John (Johimy Mine told me. He
aaad that they had porchaeed this land in Mexico bot that they have been lookine at
anoCher tzact farther up the Bio Graikde RxTer where they could get enough land to
aaaemble all their people and where there was good hunting and fii^e giazing. as weU
as good agricultural land, beades some moantaina, etc. — aboot a million acrea, I
think, altogether.
It has been very difficult, as yoa kzkow, to get the Indians ol the Indian Tenitorj
to sarrender ownership in coouncai. and ther make an aigtmient pretty hard to answer
in favor of it as a anive?Bal rule ior all mankind. They argue that privato owneidup
is wroog. They make the regular arguisent which aeems to be a natural one to theae
Batasal is^en. that water, air, and land ought not to be sthject to pri^-ate onenhip.
S7SU— 8. Doe. 216, «Ml— vol S T
1978 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDIAK&
Senator Teller. That it bdongB to every man who wants to use itT
Mr. Pettigrew. Yes.
The Chairman. Is there anything more you wish to say?
Mr. Pettigrew. I do not Imow of anything more. This matter has been before
you gentlemen and you have, of course, been looking into it. I have not given any
attention to it of late.
CoHMirrBB ON Indian Ayfairs, IjNrrxD States Senate,
WcMngton, D. C, April 4, 1906.
Statement of Mr. Walter 8. Field.
Senator Teller. Do you know anything about the Eickapoo Indians?
Mr. Field. Yee, sir; something.
Senator Teller. What have been your opportunities for observation and obtaining
knowledge regarding these Indians? You may proceed in your own way, without
formal questions.
Mr. Field. I went to Oklahoma City in 1889, at the time of the opening of Okla-
homa Territory, and those Indians were located immediately on the eastern border
of Oklahoma County, on their reservation, at that time. The first time that they
were called to my attention was when the judge of the district court sent for me one
day
Senator Teller. Are you a lawyer?
Mr. Field. Yes. The judge was an old friend of mine, from Wisconsin. I went into
court and saw that they had some 30 Kickapoo Indians before the bar, charged with
introducing liquor into the Indian countrv. In view of the fact that they constituted
about half of the male adults of the tribe, the judRe seemed to think that it was probable
they were not guilty. None of them spoke English, but they had a white interpreter,
and he said that they wanted to plead ffuilty.
The judee asked me to defend these Indians. I talked the matter over with them
as well as I could and found th&t they did not want to plead guilty at all, but were all
the time protesting their innocence.
The matter went over the term, and finally the prosecuting attorney dismissed the
prosecution. When Lcame to investigate the matter it seemed that the marshals had
been into their country hunting, and nad killed deer, etc., and the Indians had pro-
tested stoutly against it, and in order to get square with them thejr had brought them
in there before the court and charged them with introducing whisky. After that I
saw them very frequently, and befriended them as well as I could on occasions in that
country.
Senator Teller. You had no ofi&dal relation with them?
Mr. Field. No, sir.
Senator Teller. Do you know Mr. Bentley?
lb. Field. Yes.
Senator Teller. Was he the agent at that time?
Mr. Field. No. The agent then was a man by the name of Patrick, who is the
foster father of Mr. Thackery. the present agent.
Senator Teller. Please tell the committee what their condition was.
Mr. Field. At that time?
Senator Teller. Yes; when you first knew them.
MJr. Field. They were, every one of them, blanket Indians. None of them spoke
English except one, a brother of this Johimy Mine, who is here. His name was
Panowa. He is dead now.
Senator Teller. Were they doing any f arminff?
Mr. Field. Well, yes; a few of them; probabfy one-half of them at that time had
good houses, good reasonable houses for Indians in their circumstances. Probably
a dozen or fifteen had peach orchards, and an average to each family of, I should say,
10, 15, or some of them 20 acres. This was before the proposition for allotment. It
was prior to the making of the treaty.
Senator Teller. They were living on their lands in common?
Mr. Field. Yes, sir.
Senator Teller. Do you know anything about how they felt about the treaty, and
their general disposition toward receiving allotments ot land, etc.?
Mr. Field. Yes, sir; I was present one day, during t^e time that the treaty was
being considered. Only one man voted for the treaty. It was done by a division.
Those in favor of it were to walk over and take their stand on one side of a line, tmd
ATWAOS aw THB MEXIGAV KICKAPOO TmOAMfL 1979
i it om the oCli«r. One mm, a Pottovmtonie, intenurned into the tiibe»
iRBted fo the treaty.
Senator Tkuxr. That vae all?
Mr. FiKU>. Yea.
Senator Teues. That vas the treaty lor aDotnKntt
Mr. Field. That vae the treaty for allotment.
The Chjlikxas. Waa that treaty reported at adopted hy the Indiana— and what
treaty was that?
Mr. Field. That was the treaty under which this land was allotted, but it was
mwie in this maniker. A deleeaition was select^ed to come to Washington for the por-
poae. The Indians said that ther ^the delefeation) dbonld noteat agaiijat the maaing
of the treaty. When they got here they signed a paper tnat was mieintATpreted to
the one Kirlup^» who came. One Kickapco came, aikd two white men. as repreaent-
ing the Kickapr o tribe. One wae an interpreter, who was an intermarried Frem^
man; the other «aa a ixj^an who h^ never been connected with the tribe at all in aay
nmnner. a man named John T. Uili. who was afterwards allotted with the Kiowaa toad
Comanches.
The Cbaimmas. H<>w \f.-nz agr^ was this? <
Ifr. Field. It wjls in l%&i.
Senator Sctiieel.ivd. Yov my the paper was mianterpreted — where did yo« get
ttat inlormation h»>m?
Mr. Fold. From the interpreter himaptf. He wiD my, if qiimCKmed, that he was
gnren 1300 for misnteipreting the treaty.
Senator Claek, of IK yoir:ine. V. hx^ v^^ intere^ed in that — a addte man?
Mr. Field. The man Hill. John T. Hill, it is ordinarily said.
Mr. BEvnLET. The tr^* y orrMd^ that this man Hill eboald be paid |5.(m, and it
was to his interest to get it tnro^i^.
Mr. F^ELD. He wae paid $oOO in cadi, and was to get 15.000 fn»n the proceeds of the
■rie of the furplos land.
Senator Cuuie. of Wyoming. Who made this agreement with him?
Mr. Field. That I orald not my.
Senator Cuuke. of Wyvirdng. UV.<e agent wa she — wbo wm to pay him thia $5,000?
Mr. Field. This $5//Xi was to be paid out of the fund* derired from the sale of the
Innfr, and that agr^oient was with the Jerome comnAiikion.
Senator Dtraois. Who appointed th«ae commiaa/.nifs?
Mr. Field. The>- were appointed by the President.
Senator Dcaois' At whoee request?
Mr. Field. TVy were appointed lor the pmpoae of making treaties with TsriotH
bdian tiib^a.
Senator Teuxk. The commiaion was called the Jervyme or rr.i£i«aon.
Senator Glaek. of Wyomic^ ^hat I want to know im, who wae mietf^fA in getting
ttsdooe?
Mr. FiEiJ>. John T. HilL
The Chatbmiw. And he got «p the prior agreement in his own interest?
Mr. FfEfD. He goes to these men and mys
The Cw4TEway: To what men?
Mr. Field. To the Jerome-^yen GmwmsMon. There were three men. Tbey
ifpeed that if he wcold g-t this treaty they would pay him that much.
The Chatbmiw. They w^re appointed by the Fr^dent?
Mr. FiiLD. Yes.
Senator Claee. of Wy^. ::.::.?. It is a OTrel idea to me that the Goremment A/nid
fsrr 15,000 to get this d'^::e.
The CuAOMAS. But Hill's id€a wae that he would get the Indians to pay him the
Mr. Field. This mme man got an allotment of land in the Comanche coontry for the
mne serhcw.
Senator Telleb. The idea was that the ab-ation of the Indians depended on this
aDounent of land.
Seaaiar Glaze, of WycouEg. I did VA want to stop the f hainnan'i qn€etioik$.
Senator Claec. of Mo'iir.aika. Yon wanted to get at the motive of this matter.
Senator Claee. of Wy'^:£.iEi^. So: I wanted to get at the n*en. either the fAtctsn d
tibe Gcnrcmment or any :>yiy «Hse. wim w«re williag to give a man I5.0CO to negotiate
ft treaty.
Tim CsAiKMAX. He undoubtedly got the o&f.-ers into the belief that the Indians
■snUwl this treaty ziade.
SfMfor Claae, of Wyo:x:ing. I can ncM andentand why the Govema^ent agreed to
ThsCHsiBiiaa. Battiiejdidnotafma,ositTMihly. Ihe Indians agreed aminm\^.
1980 AFFAIBS or THB MUIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator La Follettk. Had not the Government adopted it as a policy at that time
to get these lands allotted whenever they could?
The Chairman. Yes.
Senator La Follbttb. That was the policy at that time with respect to all Indian
lands.
Senator Tbller. It was a common thing fifty or seventy-five years ago that when
treaties were to he made with Indians, one thousand dollars, or two thousand, or three
thousand, would he P&id, and concessions made to the headmen.
Senator Gamble. The pay wmit to the headmen?
Senator Tellbe. Yes.
Senator Clark, of Wyoming. I can understand that.
Mr. Bbntlby. The Kickapoos never voluntarily agreed to this, hut were hoodooed
into it.
Mr. Field. Immediately after the treaty was signed here in Washington, or at anv
rate Portly afterward, an allotting agent was sent west for the purpose of allotting lana.
There had never been a trader's store on the Kickapob reservation until then. One
was then started and credit was given to the Indians.
The Indians then, with the exception of 89 or 90 of them, got up and vent into the
northern part of the reservation, into the poor land, to avoid allotment, and there they
remained until they were taken off by Mr. Bentley. They were caniped upon school
lands— lands that had been given to the Territory as school lands. Those lands had
been leased by the governor, and he was calling on the Secretary of the Interior to get
the Indians on, so that he could fulfill the provisions of the lease.
Jhe Indians refused to move, and finally the Secretary of the Interior asked for a
company of soldiers to put them off. He called upon the War Department for that
purpose.
It was at that time that the governor of the Territory conceived the idea of getting a
delegation to come to Washington with the view of getting an amicable settlement.
That delegation came and I came with them, and after considerable difficulty suc-
ceeded in getting President Cleveland to understand the situation, and he agreed to
appoint a special agent for them. They had been turned down by the Indian Office,
turned out of the office.
Senator Teller. That is, the Indian Office would not treat with these Indians?
Mr. Field. It would not treat with them. And the man with whom they wen> board-
ing was told flatly to turn them into the street. President Cleveland took a broader
view of the matter, and told them that he would appoint whom they chose for special
agent. They chose Mr. Bentley.
Mr. Bentlev's appointment was for the purpose of locating the Mexican Ki(*ka]:)oos
upon their allotments. At that time the Kickapoos, the maiority of them, were with-
out eouipment of any kind, absolutely penniless, or practically penniless. Mr. Bentley
took tnem and put each of them on his allotment, and in two or three years they were
self-sustaining.
Senator Teller. Was Mr. Bentley here with you?
Mr. Field. He came here soon afterwards about a matter of right of way.
Senator Teller. He was then connected with a railroad company?
'hb. Field. Yes. I do not know what he was considered, but ne was then confiden-
tial man for President Gowan, of what was then the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Rail-
road. It is the same railroad that runs through the coal fields of the Indian Territory.
Senator Sutherland. Lb that the same railroad that Henry Wood was general man-
ager of?
Mr. Field. Yes.
Senator Clark, of Wyoming. The Rock Island road?
Mr. Field. The Rock Island road now.
Senator Teller. Then all these Indians retmmed?
Mr. Field. They went down upon their allotments, all the time protesting that it was
contrary to the will of ^e Great Spirit, and that thev knew that, as a consequence, mis-
fortune would come upon them. Mr/ Bentley finally persuaded them to go^ they con-
stantly insisting that they were going back to Mexico at the first opportunity. They
consented to go upon the allotments, only with the understanding that thev were going
to Mexico just as soon as they could get money enough, and Mr. Bentley told them that
their best way to get money would be to comply with the requirements of the Govern-
ment, go upon their allotments and do the best they could, and put themselves in the
position of being sensible, friendly men, instead of belligerents.
They went on the land and went to work earnestly, and in four or five years they had
more cultivated fields and were in better condition than any Indian tribe I have ever
known — better than the Five Civilised Tribes immediately adjoining. Mr. Bentley
aeemed to have a great deal of lympathy for them, and handled their amdn in a totally
Mwr^nm cfw tbe mwxfCAW ncEAToo tanxAjm 1981
AI*-#"i»EC L*0^ iflOT had «aias« ai ffpoteoar <?£ finan^'ii el i&ac ^jwuertj^ Tiut ^sbtt
Miii W\TLfSt, Trii ; i*t^.tni?*t 5&i«a 'OT. 5^ «3iK aaii ar.rifl^ vxfc r.te imaiT-gcn, A5 f^^s
tmuf*- shigr Eiir ilim i^anvTi«i»« v«r-, ^ fffs^vstL. timber Mr. EcssikT- ^of^- wick ti&ii-
E^'^x^oTA '.thrinc <^jibe^^a£E <^ mat ^ooii <^f s&er £*? ^sui F<^iX FnifeBitt •^^i ',i c&i»-
jBmi ai 'tar* d-j limsL Oc tsi* Kir.ikaoyjf '^ij ^aus- "tol ^nA zhi^nt wm ai-. '.lip^en^jrsit'
Bii'.a. *c iH a;r shac tarih^. TMf *'.!«• uutiaa WW' <f»i i^i ^aaami ^htt ^jraia^al -tiUiZR- ''i
» s^ttiui. iUiii & .iarr <:r •:▼'; itTuarwarris iit wan <^)Ksut.
0iiiinii»r >a* vf cfe fc^t^iai. iiiz!»a&» w»nr» 5*^ Mi«afn ti: mok^f- a. paTausis ',c StiMA* '^-<r
anrr 2n*:«f m. zh^xc a^r^ijcL ^r^rmspj ssg€h^ at^^^^aehd av Mr. E'^irisy,
fen^ft.r <LiiiE, :c ifi'Tnintair. W!t«!t was Mr, Beaiiffj skiHi*
Mr FGtLfl ILi Miijcpii.. M«Erri.
SHuifit'.r 'jTJLjri:!:^- Wwr- y-^ii siifipt ac tiiit iriiaLg:?
Mr Fnnis . 5^--.. icr. fern I va* iin«»r»»- ^t^^tix i, wt^ litDw.. asui I iuaxd r^x sc n&iat.
S«iitt»;r IsLLajL I ihmk ca* ?j*p#:ra hjw?- ^i^^w riniic-
Mr f 3.iii^. H* HBsaz a^c**5ii*»*i V. 3€r. B«irJ#T r«: hM^l^ hrm '^roR. Mr. E^nzLt^* .ABorL.
•*'If init TF^ pik-j r.r 1. '.^ftraai tu: riiit B«'.pl**r 5<isra.iiai. ^aik, EairSfr Pws. "f»x-.- I
w^ IRC T^a li**- mj-.cj»7- ' ji£r ci**n:uii*7- 'ioi *hii1 ^ r.,»ii»^raai tji-^ zkj^ i».Ag3i»r f'^wt baatk.
Mr. Fek^ E '-i: ii-.n jzu-.w,
Mr BrtTTiirT. U wm I£}L!W»
Mr Frmii Mr B»»nfii»7 r,;r.« s&j^ «^&iii'^ aori pim siiaiL is «&«• Bosk.
^«iiir--x Tii.r.a^ Sj*- '.&*»r» -Jus- auoitfj: h«r ^ ^7- uhi!- '•.^Jtr.to*
Mr FGEiis-.. Y*«- an*t I ii»art n&» aBDB« sprail in«tn eel ^jmLp^Lj wrcE s Br<#?aC acwiL
at ",ui» Ton* ih#:iic Tr^; T»a33 ur: fiLiC« .i2HCE3i'rlT !2l mrr pvsfnf.it tlSiac 2*. ift«n«fi n«^
EiaL "iiuic !<»- "wm iufcrrrnr "uwi«» -'ji^tc^wf wiiHL tii»- 'fhy*3««i ii&afi Mr B*»iiri*»7' was im»^
4|^iiffli:.{i^ 3-.r ai»^ ha»t Li^an»*<i "Jias 1317 hiia± »irjii*r ia. ^''xia&i-.tnA f '137 .r m. iSa-^thw:
m-'sriiift utT^ax^it iim. ja7 r!»aa*'.ii4r^i*»^ aannnaxL *cihi«^ wifik '^ vTG^^fis £ a*;€ft -^r «itTinir3r
*%c SLj khul
:?*BisBi';r ^rrrwssutjn ITir. fiort ti&a*?
)& WrxLTt This sou*^ ^«»rial agsUL
^imisr^'^r T 11X33^ Mr L»i2i:iL-
Mrr Fims Mr Ir^.n. v!ii: axsbfc •&«■ v/sptjr: » -*v Mr. B<«icSr»7 zh^ Se ww ara»j!c^ii>-
*«iaj*'r Tuxia. T'.ix ^tj 7^11 starry r^f^xL i»inra. ni "iuK: 'xjuaxj^
3fcr if ratLii Y-«- H i;n* h^ysL ;±«i»- feifOrir^.. ! ir» rjlere' ca. M.ir^.^ aid acaaa oi
^wassffi-x TiT.r.aa, •fAr.*^ xaiifir ▼&££: 'tar''!TimHiaajf!«i jnii ipcoi: ti&iwt. jairf whssff, -pv^
Mr P^nii T^ Irs: :i3u?-. sl Mir-.k. I v*tin ^ fi&it wrnKsc cc 'hpr laifeni* ?iii^
•Timr *.^:ir. -if»7 iiut imaiZ!*fJ v. ^117 * "a-arT: ct TanrS teir^nn w ?f .«cuirMiii. ,k -jn.-*: i^
^r.iii; 'mS i1#5«5 irr»s. lait 'hjuj. 'Suej -wnssss^t ner iti> m d*i «e ^liia: "lajt Tiri* in» rurifco
«&f "^ ^s^^r^ OL fr.r.ii ^rc^if,
Ftnaily -^rSu*!! M: B»*!inii?7 ?iH»in#Hf v. !ii-7* iirrt a. a^ -tnrTHfr Trii»r» ai»- -^.^liii 2i;n is»ii
1982 AFFAIBS OF THB MSXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. FiBLD. Yes; I looked both pieces over, because Mr. Bentley had the other
one in view, the one known as the oan Francisco ranch. He had that in view in case
the first one fell throueb.
Senator Teller. What kind of land was that?
Mr. Field. As ^d land as I have ever seen anvwhere — ^taking the water. If there
were no water I think it would be a desert practically, so far as raising crops is concerned.
Senator Teller. It is an irrigated country?
Mr. Field. Yes; although the land raises a very rich quality of grass, a kind of
mesquite grass. That was in March and I saw taken out of this Nogalitas ranch
1,000 head of cattle (in March, as I say), as fat as any cattle I have ever seen on any
ranch in the United States, after they had gone through the winter on that grass.
When I was there in September there was growing on this piece of land tluit they
have now bought a crop oi com as good as any that i have ever seen
Senator Clark, of Wyoming. How much of that land is farming land?
Mr. Field. The only knowledge I have of it is from observation. I should say,
in cultivation, about 1,000 acres. How much wild or grazing land was attached to
it I do not know. The water that goes with the land is what runs through a square
meter, a hole a meter wjuare — that is, 39 inches — six days in a month, and that under
a pressure of 12, or 15, or possibly 20 feet.
The water is evidently ample, under a different style of cultivation, to irri^te
much more than they are now irrigating, and I understand that they have the right
to irrigate what they can with this water.
Senator Teller. VSliat is the method of irrigation — do they run it onto the land?
Mr. Field. No; they run it in ditches. They plow, however, with an old wooden
plow.
Senator Teller. Two inches deep?
Mr. Field. Yes; 2 or 3 inches deep.
Senator Clark of Montana. Do the Indians follow that method?
Mr. Field. No; they take steel plows with them from this country and they are
regarded bv the citizens there as being rather a respectable class of people, from the
fact that they have horses and plows, and the Mexicans are willing to take leesons
from them.
Senator Clark, of Montana. They are introducing a new civilization into the Aztec
family?
Mr. Field. Yes.
Senator Teller. Are those people around there Spanish, mostly, or are they In-
dians— the ancient Indians?
Mr. Field. They are nearly all Indians.
Senator Teller. That is what I understood. The man we had here the other
day is a Spaniard [alluding to Mr. Gal&n]. What is the character of Mr. Bentley
for int^rity and respectability?
Mr. Field. 1 have never heard Mr. Bentley's character for integrity questioned
but once, and that was by the Indian Office at the close of his administration, when
they changed the policy down there and put those Indians under a 8ch(H)l superin-
tendent. At that time the new man came. And, by the way, he had inherited an
opposition to Mr. Bentley, because before those Indians were put in Bentley's charge
this man had been a farmer at the agency whence these Indians were taken, and when
he came back as agent he evidently inherited his opposition.
Senator Teller. What is his name?
Mr. Field. His name is Thackery.
Senator Teller. The same man that is there now?
Mr. Field. He charged Mr. Bentley with having stolen two or three barrels of lime.
I got Uiis from Mr. Jones, the former Commissioner of Indian Affain^, who made this
statement to me, that it turned out, after all this fuss, as he put it, that Bentley had,
I think, three extra barrels of lime more than he needed and took them back to the
man from whom he had bought them and traded them for lumber and put the lumber
into the Indian houses he was building. Consequently when the time came to turn
over the property that he had in charge there were three barrels of lime on his property
list that could not be found, and he charged Bentley with taking them.
Mr. Bentley. They tried to prosecute me for this. The Umted States attorney
soueht to indict me.
Mr. Field. Mr. Jones said, laughingly, that he thought Bentley had better pay
for the lime, and Bentley did pay for it, and that ended it.
Senator Dubois. Do you know whether these Indians have any superstition against
taking land in allotments?
Mr. Field. Yes.
Senator Dubois. A religious idea that induces them to hold their lands in common?
AWTJkom or THB Mirnrjiw WMcmAFCo iwnujn^ 198S
wibHL du^y an<i<^n:ik£^ tti <iirTkie a tsp msBA'^rzsnuk is sore: ^ omm; tcpf^ik ti^ni. n«jr
jii:p«^x^^Tai .a :tL tJisa nir^^rt \& w^rj jcmmr s& ts n iczQii^ C&at fikftcr r»aiifm fee zloc takn^
TiiM: mt'.vjtj 'itiz x ait»^ Tr<»at»ir7 snas is ar^w 'intt ejum .kbous ^l^,iM^) is filbfr fa^ez J^atL
\z Ib au»r pcnrt»«»fi» ->c riiar. biOti choiC kas b««iL srici,
iiniMy joii ^ixtwuzi^ it Liif«-j '>cii«»r hazuis' aad wUie: d^xiaiMr P<t]uasr>»w was rhaarmaa; «#
niu^ imtiua ^r:imiiirb'.4*f^ vc ck«r S«»naiu^. a£ tLe^ tczu^ c&mk Inrtianft madft Shis viaiS h^sc^
mmnaati ci ilu^ Tr^a^irj i;r tiEiMii aoui t:&At cLf»^ <^a^^ ^ &&]&»: it i3ut dbait im ^0
v.itnnsis. T!u»7 cd«i aia. siias i;li*^ ^iraiti ant t!ai£i*- iciL a* a: wis tiL^ ^^rj^g^ ^i laauAz
dia£ ^iu0!j ooti OA ru^t Qr> u^d*: ix ^uixi <»as is tsp. » chj^ Gn^as ^cns wmixi pnoiaiL duai
^a£ ix mA^ luew iaad, jad ofu^T- acr^^ oo £^ duic. TL^ Aid efa^y woold tuk^ es slu*iii
a£ ^ha£ lamt* imi pat ^t» nii'.tif*^ ^^^ ^ bazik aiiti ha-^^ it (iz&w i3£^»n»9£ viti ha^^ b«y
sui vii»fi jna |!Hi j^.iir Ii.'^^ta'ifi i:ii^C«xk» and moA j&fsx woMnsfr let m^ ^jsi-m Mtd I
wiH ***»: ;±a£ ^rnn fst jmir ini-.tii*^'.
Tluyr 'jporabcom' *xiu»rnii**ti *^<hi tf^ 1^ oKiMy. And nisv r3uA dber i:kT^ fniu* QEa&
lit^xxcT; aotcl lia-Tiir ti^k^m rjunr ^±sLk &> t^ bsui ehsa ekey iorm — i aauKr^^juiii riu» sstfe
IB i3L 0%eBifl&» — eS 0 '^o: so. ^soidiexauo^a!^ wrtk km amd amAii«^ siMsnttir7«*« ckat ^0
Imd fli ife Qtopf^n J c^ j^H <^ t^^sn and ^oA ch^y laeid Bt m eonausiiL
3fr. Fizzj>. T<^s. Jls i^nt Tims ^a£ I sttdfr fiii«ser is devteaibisr tk^ hi4ii jk <9»x3idi
oifisCDi^— w»l. iSusf kiftM » <3»i2U!]I ob^ttQi^ ^fT^sj oi^&t BST !&£<»« Of st'^tir aaariizi laid
^ac was t^i^ <%iil[j mihpif% lauiee <%tLaid(»ei£u'>>ffr— -^«- aie^nznaif cc nt>^ £:kaii azui dw
iu»<*j»jBirf ^ui£ is mn^ b^ *rirjniir»ti 121 cntairu'^tu aaii tikat uh«^ aiiirtr. bviit is 1-2, a-^xnxnem
tad mma^ dloe cE^am: amis bi^ ar> 3ii'>n»^ aUbciiuHbC a* ti^ pus is.
dfuiaiv.r TrtLint JL Cr«***k Luiiaa v.ld m* ywD^r^y c^ts h«* hart 2i*-r*r rjkiDya assj
bmi. Hi^ msd. ^iufj ^atd ^tt^il hfm hsad^ bos ^a£ lu»: had oi-x joiy ktai-L
Ssoaccr fJCBM^ii. O^^indjxnaA hasve %eM m^ slias <&«y kad act iidyD^A i:li«£r 1
Cernxsmm &% Isbsas JlknAiBK, Jliasm^ Swjtr^ Scsj^rm,
Seoa&sr Tffirga. fi2r7<^ pia jciS^ Mr, Bcntky. tlie fess«r jRsa nsr.«i*7ed fsc^OL Cs
SLiaBi'iii«r J^iiii»s'^
5«na£*-,r TKLnaa. T«»ii.
SiBias^ Taixaa- fa arr <iri.w*r. joti tikiak'*
ytr Ee^tlst. T*»- ThAT. was & feouir I r^^Kcn^ fmoL CominmnV>Ji*»r J-ituM ;
I w^wi: «iirs -^ thft 5S»r7u-j*
-Stnac'^ TrLLtrat.. \^-^{I, I rJiiak I ha-T* is. Is -juwt aay txrthier ftas^mens j-.ii wai^
5^ Ei^TLiT Th*»r«*^ jj -.ci^ ma^x^. S^nai:.'^. r.has I duyaM Ek* to Skj b<5fi-.m t&c
^runmxouM'. Thar. j». ihas tilut ail-^jaip«'irr.^is diizig to thjeut Tr.diaT^ff it riie ^^rii^AfUiift
tii hma^ pi»mrrr<*ti v. ■•i.t<p*-j!i* it r^i»ar '*atit* in t&tf -'nuncrj. « shas thfty aiaj M^.r^ji^^ %
j^*tt iTOT in yt^^^xr. rjias "»"IL h«^ ^ anme S^r sEmxl fcr ift taxut to '•jim*. if tE«y ssr
^miy p«r3ii3X.»ti ii; <iis^j»: 'd dieir kad b«ft in pi«i:«s. tli«y '•.aa oi^ ar^nire cfL* piaie«
^liy wont r-*r rJi«r%-
I ^^i waac V, flu^rws: tbas jtffiiaiaa' with, th* ITaftaBacfis ca Old Mftxir.ri are 10 I>»fiii-
wares a^d Ai-.'.i;:: 'UJ vc Bur I.m * haad x Siawiwe. Taey aver f^ ladiaas :ftat ka-^nc
biWHi i2fJiarj»tt -v'xa ;iad ^•*«i wisK th* fCir.kapnrjs prai'tiitaily »a«:it L*24. WbJs
t^My ba.^* hu*i i.r**r»r.f. r^sfsrr-' uit'm» ibey ba.-^<» intlftrmiriKd, aad :f lay irT!ia«!*m«»ii«i
a*!*- oiadit W^-^kmiT v. ?»ni..":ki tibi^se ladiaaa harre aoreed to naiS^ iiid hi*fr.m«»- r^Qj^
orhe. bii»^aat»** "iu^ rli:iiar:i«***» aad iMkwir^ nft *5iiiy remaaais* lad ins *■> 3ew ^Jka«
aii»y dr> ar^ ami-^iiaf. ry, iajtbiajr as a. ta^i.?.* by nK«n«T«s, and tiEey iiarT«»- ngr^Ad m
'^muiril to mm* V4r*f:h.«*r tr.ii -«» :c.e 5n>v«^- Si ubat if aay 5gf?ftfasina is kad, :t jitz&t
to h«- wtri as to ^.r.'^^r ul :c 'ii^w*: ^iv-aaae if wkat di«y barre is oaafctciiid "iiej ^^an
aitmm^iistL wbar. *JK»y w^lt.i: and •'.^a a>:qt£is& ehie kod that sb«7 kft-T« «i«ct«d ^^-^ iiHxfe
SI.
r TssjLflk, Them Dekcvms a» Ite Abssntt^ IMkwias, ac itej are ca&dt
1984 AFFMB8 OF THB MBXIGAH KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Bentlet. Y€8. Some of them have been down here for perhaps five yean.
They are the western or Absentee Delawares allotted near AnadarKo.
Senator Gamble. A huge proportion of these Kickapoos have not accepted the
allotments and have refused to do so. What do you know about that?
Mr. Bentlet. Every Kickapoo Indian while I was agent either leased his allot*
ment or went upon it, and every one of them was identified with his allotment, and
every one of them knows where his allotment is, but he does not speak of it as his allot-
ment. If you ask him "Where is your allotment?'' he will say *'Mv land is so far
from so-and-so," but he has a horror of the word "allotment." If tne Government
agent asks him "Where is your allotment?" he will say "No allotment." If you
ask him is he has got land, he will say "Yes; I lease it. ' '
Senator Gamble. This is a matter of which you speak of your own knowledge?
Mr. Bentley. Yes.
Senator Gamble. And you say that all the Kickapoos and other Indian bands
that have gone to Mexico lived on, or became identified with, their allotments in
Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentlet. Absolutely. Every one of them. Of course there are a lew thmt
never had an allotment — that were left out.
Senator Teller. Where are they?
Mr. Bentlet. They are scattered. Some of them are in Kansas and some in
Mexico. Some 30 were left unallotted.
These Indians that I represent never made any treaty. The €k)vemment never
had any enrollment of them, and all this allotment was done by guess; a eood many
of them were left out. In fact, there are some Pottawatomies and other Indians down
there who were never allotted anything anywhere.
Commissioner Leupp. Would those Indians who had allotments in Oklahoma
and are with you in Mexico, relinquish, for a reasonable price, what they have in
Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentlet. They would relinquish the title for what the lands would actually
bring; yes, sir.
Commissioner Leufp. And would it be of advantage, in your judgment, to have a
general item of legislation which would authorize the purchase of the lands of all the
Indians who had given up whatever fragment of allegiance they might owe to the
United States and had removed somewhere else with the intention of permanently
residing outside the jurisdiction of the United States?
Mr. Bentlet. It would depend entirely on the conditions that would be attached
to these sales. If the Indians were pennitted to sell their lands in the open market,
that is the very thing they seek to do.
Commissioner Leupp. Sow do the Indians with you get their tools and their imple-
ments?
Mr. Bentlet. We have bought some so far as we have been able to get money, but
not many, because we have not been able to secure land heretofore; but their market
is principally at Monterey.
Commissioner Leupp. Out of what fund do they pay for them?
Mr. Bentlet. Out of their individual funds.
Commissioner Leupp. Would it be of any advantage to them to take their share of
the tribal funds and give the Government a release?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; it would be an advantage to them. They do not want to eat it
or to use it for clothes or subsistence, as they put it; they want to put it inUj land.
Senator Teller. The money that would come out of the rent of the land, they
would take to buy tools with?
Mr. Bentlet. Yes; the money that came from leases they would take to buy tools
and subsistence, but not the land money.
Commiasioner Leupp. What I want to get at is the tribal fund.
Mr. Bentlet. It is not a tribal fund, if you will pardon me, it is an individual fund.
There is $211 due to certain identical persons — 154 of them. Part of the Kickapoos
have spent their money — wasted it long ago. That element of the Kickapoos are
called file " Propreasive" Kickapoos, because they were projgressive enough to take this
money and violate their religion. They have no money in the Treasury now due to
them.
Senator Teller. Then, this money in the Treasury belongs to individuals?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; it belonga to 154 individuals, and that is why we are insisting
upon being paid by claun, because each individual can make up his claim on the
Treasury. The interest was paid last year in this way.
Commissioner Leupp. What is this interest on?
Mr. Bentlet. Interest on this money that is in the Treasury.
Commissioner Leupp. That is exactly what I am getting at.
▲FFjUK or THE MEKICAX mMCmJkFOO ixnuuML ISHKS
Ife B£:f:!n^T- Pit* per *wia.
xut "Lii^T' 2«»i»f^ *Tr«7 d^^fflae iKoc *n:wrx «nir« ^t* ^aaat.:^ ti^kOB ito fiiii»r nf* i^i» i«!«iS«4
firud
CumniHiiU'.iLi^r tx^n^ H titer iikx^ i?tt:tf d*ib^niijiii£ta'.ixi iv r*sttd»- it^«a«l. jsui ^ ssi
-fcKu: janT.ifiir mart: v.' d:^ -v^t^'iii*- d£Zb»«d $fiiii»^, trinr Aabq^4 xtgt m^nr sp^ ^iM ^avutrj
sxtd liiV fl.iiSi viii'A -JL»**0.nieniii)«in «cfl^ tiaa IbB&d 5cr. tibier wiH i*% Tn«nr ckhC %i. p««;
-v^JB^ '^^At^ 'Grt'^^snsxxk^nfi '^ 1^ C3£3.^ SlaBb*s. aiud 1&<*7r vsili nener <oaiK' i«ci^ aaa& tUs
taiiruarr
OjmniHBu.iiAtir L4:i"J!r Y** loid j'^na JSaaA'.r T*ili*r; t™«fed it
Symsi'.c Tir.^ji. Tin: «at: T^.rc -wvirM v^ ml s^^^xK '^OTru liifipt.
OuxxmuHHi'.tLiMr Larr??- Tti ti^- i^jist ^iraf ar V. MKiiii^ Toan^s.
Tiu^ ^mjtiJtLiLL^ Yui: isr*^ nassa^fSL S^miA'.ir T'^Ikr. tft^r ps^^jBCaan 'Soft '&»• Cob-
if I rasL ii^il^. 2t
iocudi iif til* Lt^-pfirjiiifan .r jnn :n 11 lifr iacudf --.if » »r.*nriiiJ0UH*-. lilrina I -iRBifttid v^4m
wnk V. j>in tbr 'Ufi l **niiJi pi»i*'/^ it ini^.Saf* '^.hf-y -rijBf^ jr. ibsi irijMii xl li^^tia
"iriLR^ iiuix liint KaiC >^ t m t.*Hr ct*- tii*- 0';'T^€ff"iEn»'wr.
S*au-^.r TuLiiit %\^ >?: m*^ imd*5ffruiiid I iSD^f^maBuk jumL Mr- Beaaiicy. liaft
Mr B3C^'mxT J^' li!i? 'jeiru ax urs^
S^au.1- r Tn^ia:* v. C-'.tnrniiem'.^ii*?' lipi^i^' BN^ ^i»^>i wr '^oir ^ipbib ltss*€r SKfOoaiEZiKffiided
4>*!ias;.r Tii^^ t ''A tins: if k x*rT cjS'^r^ufi !m*tter- I isrr»r rrJt 'ftaa iiW^- I ab
<>.niai;H5*-n.»ii^ La -J? ] "iif 2r:ft sbj iSisrL
ytj ht^-vz.t^ Til' C-5*^r'ni-* tcUi-'uia? V. s.Vnjl 12^.^ iH^^
^d ^sPSEctf iijxt 1^ zrx'j^ -viii'^' 1^ Qw^ma^sm, VifjsrvHi kr ^e- warn
1986 AFFAIBS OF THB MSXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Bbntlet. Yee; the other »nd adjoining Indian lands were sold for $1.50 an
acre to the Government. These Kickapoo Indians want to be free from the United
States Government and to be forever beyond its control, and if the Government will
pay them this money they will be very glad to receive it as a final settlement. In
fact, I drafted a bill for the final settlement at their instigation. They will receipt
for the money in full and will quit.
It seems to me that it is a veiy little bit of money that the Government owes them,
this $250,000. And from the ^t that they were deceived into selling all their lands —
as they never consented to sell them — it seems to me a matter of justice and ri^ht that
the Indians should be paid this money, because it is due them, and if it is paid they
will, as I sav, give their receipt to the United States in full.
Senator Teller. But the Commissioner's proposition to receipt in full does not
include that money?
Commissioner Lbxtfp. It included, Senator, everything that the Government
owes them.
Senator Teller. Let me read this amendment of yours:
"That when any Indian shall have removed or may hereafter permanently remove
from the United States, the Secretaiv of the Interior shall cause to be paid to such
Indian upon his application therefor his per capita share of any funds due him under
any law or treaty, together with all moneys to his credit under the control of the United
States; provided said Indians shall receipt therefor as beine in full of every claim
and demand of any kind whatsoever against the United States, and such Indian
and his descendants shall thenceforth be no longer wards of the Government and
shall not be recognized by any Department thereof as being entitled to any benefits
as Indians.''
That is the proposition that the Commissioner made. That is a very different
proposition.
Mr. Bentlet. The Supreme Court has held recently in similar cases that the
Government must pay these amounts. There is no question about Uiis amount of
money being due them.
Mr. Field. In the New York Indian case the point was that the Government
must account to the Indians as a guardian to his ward. The presumption was that
he boueht it at the market price. He could not buy it one dav at a low price and
BcIl it tne next day at a high price without accounting to his wara on that basis.
Mr. Bentlet. I want to submit to the committee this point: If the Kickapoo
Indians can put themselves in a condition where the^ can support themselves and
take care of tnemselves for all time to come, and are willing to take a position where
they will never ask this Government for anything further, what, in comparison, does
this $250,000 amount to? And should it not be paid? This committee has had tes-
timony as to the property they are endeavoring to acquire. That property consists
of 238,000 acres of limd in a fine, well-watered country. On that land there are
13,000 head of cattle and 250 fine American horses, and ramring on the hills around it
are four or five thousand goats. It will take nearly $400,000 to acquire that property
with the stock on it.
Senator Teller. Do you mean Mexican money?
Hi. Bentlet. No; American money.
Senator Clark, of Wyoming. How many acres are there?
Mr. Bentlet. Altogether we would have about 300,000 acres of land, counting
the property we have alreadv acquired. On the 238,000 acres, as I have said, there
are 13,000 head of cattle, ana 250 American horses, and several thousand g^ats. The
goats are the most profitable of all the stock. They more than double in value each
year.
Senator Teller. What do the people do with them?
1^. Bentlet. Some of the goats are butchered. Goat meat is much sought in
Mexico. Goats find a ready miilcet there.
Senator Teller. They raise those instead of sheep?
Mr. Bentlet. The goats are hardier and easier to raise. One Mexican will handle
a large number— as many as 1.200 — and he will work for $12 a month. And besides,
goats range on the hills, and suosist on the shrubbery where nothing else would live.
Senator Teller. How much money does a goat bring?
Mr. Bentlet. A fat soat will bring about $4.
Senator Stone. In Mexican or American money?
Hi. Bentlet. In Mexican money. The herder who herds them will cost about $16
per month, as he has to be fed, and these goats feed on a range that would otlierwise be
wasted.
Senator Teller. Is the meat commonly used?
Mr. Bentlet. Goat meat is the meat' of the country, especially for the laboring
AWTAOS or THE MKStCJklf WSCKAPOO TTTIfABS, 1987
Xr. Fa£». VrA m m lie&acj is dot eovanj. At m boaqiBec c&ej wM mrsdak yps
WB& pi:rk dbs^ is & <!£e^ac]f .
dcnii&:r Cljlax. of Wv^imxa^ W&ea u&e GtiT^sumesu: ^aek {&» Ituui s£ 333^ eeam wm
wtaxu WM Tjiaz in. puzsnaoite' of szi ^^srteau&iui wink nhie Kn'k^Kpf^K'*
Mr, BErnLTT. A i^ippoeoi jarteEi4KL.i:- bar in ifc!T: a*; juc««xlhis ^ iIL Tl«-Gr:^x«E»-
oieas ^IHC c«:-«tily ^'jtJl in: : ;^iiSi js if j^ji -jrere ;& znariisfczi 5:r mfni^r cfiiliinHi lad jr^a ^xk
Mr. Ea^TLinr. Y€»: jaiii i±* »>:^rernTnigL!i jc&i iz. fcr f I.^ so. ahcre. jani she ^if5(»r«i««
liinzss ons m I ^-r* aial ^"♦jim f2i5r>.»')i» le^ sniiwT. by r^e- wn^ntfmanz w^ ka-^it ^trkfrigj
w^i«r*s3. Tihss lntTi*\Tii* ii£7>»«ii nn^kT. «^ili p^xs'jtl *»?fcrr ge*^ia:pc m. full iki tihje- *r'^"^Tmnfinii
fer j^ zhua m <iizje- vtiiHi ihe Gn^^mjmaa&pKj^ r.h;u': siciijsy.
■gijaiingt^y r^^a-.x .^ WjT-.m-rw^ TW OD^T B ctsiLpiitfGe ioid iiLclnai^fis chijee- ^ihree ^M«wift»
Mr- Ez:sT!L2T. Tbs Ii4 izi» :hi'.iHs- di^KC ace- kao^vn m "' Kyfr<»r^ '' jizsxi cbdi <:^ tikcae Hat
M ei££ul£it ^j f ■? I [ Bi uhe- Trcsyfiiry. in b jq- ai££ac&ed tst^ e^^dfc. of dieai: ^l ^bt b^oiEs of t&s
Tceaiiarj.
pCKS^iKCailie'^ |K^,)^)t^ j^-.w-w- T Wflli w»i»t p^^^ fS. HOA ne^. rf<Mg>na^a^ g^^ ln^i^MJut mr^ gJbM
SoflStsr Tklueek. Ant tou azs- (Ubu ulyey j«*Ty»f ^ mj^cridiiikta^
desii&ur C&.SJLC. -^ Wy:>jmzic. Ir s&ob ^^a^M» dhi»id be piAc«d e& ike Ticafflivj ip
c&e- tz«(*^ni >'j£ ^kis- L^ uiid iiii ^im octtier iiuanJb«B9
Mr. Ei:»TL.2T. In mtz, S»t3£k&:x, i rJitjogiis ^ svaad pcr^ibikiie mid Xiiut harntrrag s^ of
Itiwr^.. «G«^.. . :ibi» ES v^noM be h^i^tir zc hk^i^ a new eoB^MausA vlm^ </t die Kikikh^^us sad
Gi2 inkihiide ^ 'Jie rrirfT*kr!t» <»iLtiiuLi!iii !W> >ii2e -ffsrpiiiii Etuiid saiei axr^oey — zhuL is die ^^LSeieicK
becweexL die IIL^ •^«iiil« xmi f 1^5t> — Mj idbfcS skis mi^farrii mmM mi'^atAt *il pioKaii
Mrisi^ *3iL die Lsc «i:kT 'if Mxj. LMC w^ediier shey w«« ilIi^csM m OkkiJat^m^fc or soil
CoBuioHBuiier Li-^m-. Aj £ Trni'^t'CTrAati hl s^eo. Mr. Eei^^ey. if zhm <iiansL dios pos
«cftk (si btam^ iihe ^E&fiHu:e '&<c««cxi> XtJ^ ceaa xad. fl^X «««- jKsied liss. b«kflB
aas dbeiae tiue i«atkfiaff Te£te koe pad ^i^M ^ sb&> ofczAEaoa. ckks doaxae- woiiid
<aHW4g dias af one (!if die 'TioiiDif chas c&e Sfi^t^ami** isKi -^y^-irMag ;;^i^ ir]i.si^ '•^riT^m,. pmiiM
it ■sK;^ Ia <3Ch)er w^^r^i. u' dkyi au^ser vnereaeaied. » silBai& diefe vait dixks msadk w^ ite
cndis ^ tlie ioidsiatf '^
Mi^ Bazra^T. Yes.
riflmiwHwdiai^y L^:^??^. Is B sDBpi'j, tirCBr * <irw*rin« «f ike imie eiaft tie np«» t&sqpi
Mbl Ecyi^XT. Y€s.
scnasgr Ul&ax.. «3f Wy^mioe^ 1 tmATwaiid j^« fancier. zhaA ikeL. ciese fnifei—
rfamnTTiir kuud. ■^'ti*i>infti. !io€ •^iLLmiizi^ a j^ ;ftjii ^fcDbcmeivL. v^hiM josmiiiisr ik>- die UiuBcd
'jiartifif wiiaMft^*Er 'dikoiL daey aoii ^
Mr. BsarrSuTT. Yes. E*:^(iii db^ae Mk>a«fi jkad anmrFinit^- zhaj *ii wis a ^mal
iKfniieaieai;. T^:^ige latii'-ijii-'Siiirt v^i ha-i^ ^11 m. die TnsatHizj di>isx^ tks^okv is and
;;ke]ii emk, xnxi ^■^'>^r* inx»m.c*»r oc die "xiot. wunrji^r MAtLAjnni ul oir.Thh»fn;h or iioc w^noid
piiraospik£e lit'Viife^y in uiie nuifti >iit^rrA«^ cit-jil die inzpiii^ iarar^. die «tiTf<*rgB<;» b*MiwecB
i:L§ ienia ajiaI 11 -Ii) xtl i»ir^, imi tt lui r^M£g,c ni tiL z,: die Uair.^ :?sa5«» air d
.i^gwifljirtM. j^iui ijKT**^ z^ismimiZtt die crinnftT.iiviri. <^ ctte okie or ajLj iaiJL^'nitithiif oi ifc
wick die Uiizcitfi ^riiriii
Office of the United States Attobnet,
District of Oklahoma,
Guthrie, April 20, 1906.
Hon. Fbank a. Thackert,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent, Shatonee, Okla,
Deab Sib: This office Is In receipt of a letter from tbe Attorney-General of
the United States In reference to the conduct of Martin J. Bent ley In securing
deeds from certain Klckapoo Indians for their allotments in this Territory, the
restrictions upon alienation of which were removed by the act of Congress
approved March 3, 1905. The Attorney-General directs me to assign an assist-
ant attorney to make a thorough investigation of this case, with a view of
taking such action as may be found proper or expedient to protect the Indians,
or to prosecute Mr. Bentley if the investigation should disclose that he has
committed an offense against the United States, the Territory of Oklahoma,
or the State of Texas. In compliance with the instructions of the Attorney-
General I have detailed Assistant Attorney George A. Outcelt to make the inves-
tigation on account of his experience with Indian affairs.
The Attorney-General suggests that the assistant attorney should go to Eagle
Pass, Tex., and to Mexico, and among the Klckapoo Indians Bentley Induced to
remove to Mexico. And Inasmuch as you are personally acquainted with
these Indians, and have made a trip or two to the locality where they are
located, I think it of the utmost importance that you accompany Mr. Outcelt
on this trip and assist him in securing the statements of the Indians. Tou
should take with you an inten>reter upon whose honesty you can rely, to the end
that every statement you obtain may be relied upon. It will also be necessary
to secure in Mexico some person who can speak the Spanish language to assist
you. Tbe honorable Secretary of the Interior, in his letter transmitting the
papers in this case to the Department of Justice, states that the Department of
the Interior will render all of tbe assistance possible in this investigation, and I
am quite sure that if you will advise your Department that you have l)een
requested by me to accompany Mr. Outcelt and assist in the Investigation, and
that it will be necessary to have the interpreters suggested above, you will
be instructed to go with Mr. Outcelt and to employ such interpreters as you
win find necessary.
I trust you will take this matter up with the honorable Commissioner of
Indian Affairs at once, to the end that an early investigation may l>e made.
Very respectfully,
J. W. ScOTHOBlf,
United 8tate9 Attomep.
United States Indian Agency,
Shawnee, Okla., April 21, 1906.
Tbe CoMMissiONEB OF Indian Affaibs,
Washington, D, 0.
Sib : I have the honor to Inclose herewith a. letter just received from Hon.
John W. Scotbom. United States attorney for Oklahoma, which refers to the
matter of Mr. Bentley*s connection with the removal of tbe Mexican Klckapoo
Indians of this Agency to Mexico. He desires that I be authorized to ac-
company his assistant United States attorney and to employ an Indian inter-
preter from here to go with us to Mexico and to employ a Spanish Interpreter
after reaching Mexico. I can get an Indian interpreter for $2.50 per day and
his expenses, but for a Spanish interpreter I should be authorised to pay H per
1968
AWTAOs am TBK mciinAW wmxawoo miAVS. 1989
4mj sad Us mww !■ orAer to imumilf iinKUHf €ke Batter «r fl«F
prgp>Md tSUe to Ind Hiifl hr Kr. RwtleT «■ betelf «r tke Kjekapoos I
ihniill be amhujtlMd to p» to «»«* ptertnt ia 9iex>o» as finaad aeenaair.
ia tfcif «ODa«ftJOB I «^o«ld reqwirtf <allj f«<er to y«f«r letter dated JaBsaiy
rk ISim. direic^s^ that I vftUboAd aH whmt di»^ tke liexlean Kif^iapw la-
d^jiZtf reta^'Ttg In Micxxiql It at proha!b4e thit we* voaoSd fiad t^ Kkkapoo ia
ji TirckditScfiQ mC fwaadyj^e to ovr pffzmg mmc^ ^'v-Mesoe fnooB tfaos fmieai
t&s ^ff'der as t^ p«jiai^ tk« tkeir BMne?- i^rkt be* titaiff < irSly cofiieaded
csid I l«^ ainly.4ia«d to paj tkeai tke leafR- mfm^ -oc aKiatblr all9«a»» af
rft%>MrH^<>l iT^iJifa |«akd iDf^MT BOW dsfr tlHB frwB 1^2^ •rAfte. It Biicjbt be fooad
»dT-3siLt^ :^^ i<r> BctiJke axij («j-ssve!irt. bst it «-<c»q>j «tH»^m pm<i5:«es- t^t I be 4J»^ea
aHBie d5a!T?tMa ia tbe autter. «& tbat «e «oaM bKt«r aMcc ^loodstfiaaa aa n
I tMok H ^driaajt^de tbat tbe Caltod Siateif <raa«al ^aad avcb otber nefypeaeala'
tSv^eff «f tbe raited Sitates 9m yom mmr nacprm «-bo mieht be abAe to aid in tbe
fat»« be nsq^oefnied. tbroofb tbe pt^cfwr cbaameifi. to ^rr^ «» ei^erj poanMe aa-
aunzziQe ia y^^^^^y at tbe fatcta of tbas vbofte snatter. I momOd aak tbat tUa
starter be nsde ipccial f^nce it If finwnii t tbat aa amfb et ideate aa poariMe
bcf «t«^-snd vM3e Jir. BeotSer it mu ia Wajcbinc^toei. r«oc «itb bia pf>tatBm arilb
tbe I^<£a2ti is Mexxo it «iI3 be Ttsj d±S&^f %Xf pf^ mn^Ttkm^ odit of tbe KKba-
piw ijMi^asoL If ft it tbo»3sbt «ATi«bk' tbat 1 pf» vitb tbe aanftant Uaitod
States attorasT I fbosid be arired to tbat eflen «> tbat fiaiefwiatioBtf «an be
acaxiiHi mt on«:.
Tcf7 leapectftf^, Fk^^K A. Thacvebt.
F«pgrvi#^f>«4f«f mm4 gpedmi J>iit ■»■!■# .l^faft.
EKPAaTvcsT or thk IvnBMK.
Orrsca or Ixokajt Ajtaixf-
Tlif iSta:artL4aT «3r iioz Is^naaaa.
^^iM: Tbtffif i» ixst&ooMl a iettier. dated Aprfl 21. 21«. froos tbe
cszt m -cbm^ otT tbe Sbaaraoe frt>o«o4i : alfto a letter add^neaaed to blaL ^
of ^J!n3 1»\ IfT i- ^- &wiLbc«iJL riait*d Stalief att«ii*y.
it aiipcsitia tbat tbe De|iarcaMKit of Ji2ASee it malrrnig: an effort to
M. J. B^^tS^ for bia fy^XiZi^i^ntMm arttb tbe trailer of fiertaia mrfcapoo aHat-
auesita zt^^iiT litf- «c^ of ^siiVTjee. Mr. G. A. CNatiCttilt bas be<<si d^aosnaiied br tbe
I>^aLii2E««sa <<€ Ji2f?>% or tbe diftrxt atioraejr to xsr^R^atie tbe eaaer and ab>
taji ^^rv^ok^ OL vbkb to Ia» iff%»!iMKliaKSS. It fK«iBkff ibaif be is pensBailf
^^aliSwi for liLii taiaiL bet fioc& Jir. Soottbora** &etttr $t ajft^an tbat hit arfll
TVTidTe aaRfSLtsi^^ev and tbe attooiej a^L^ S^sfiitrmteadeEit Tbftcbar to <iibfMM
airt2«Mrti7 for ^kia to ^ v^ ll«xko viiist Itr. fmvot^ tabi&s ciKb intespsvaefa
as Jiitj bf si^ieBNaJT' axid ii& aaBst m gaii^nists tbe erSdenee vtqmmL
Jir. Tltft^^iirT :ift':'>j«^ tbe ktter aa im reajK-.st f<cr aakis^ for aatborttj aad
ftdkS tbat be be a^stborin^d to ^ to i«Kb ptc^mts im )iex>y^ or ^leew^uar^ aa ai^j
!•»' n'.i'L.iBMfcry 3a carder tie afffaft If r. Ootiecft ia tbe 2zrT«Bt2^tktt. and tbat be
bf- airt^i^ittd to bipc as Lsuiian interpreter aad a Spaniib lateapweter. and
Kr. j*T i*ie f^^-siw' 2K.« iiK?>e tban S2L90 a day and tbe Matter not to ex.<?iE«d SC
a ^y. b>o<& ««QB|>(kMr4i» Xi." ba«« tbeir expeaeea paid W tbe OoreriuaeaL.
In b^ leci^r Mc Tba^iKTir iarifeea atteatioa to ^Aoe iHtftr of Janoair Wl
mM. ia arb>f^ be it dirtK^ied — ia anwifdaaQe vitb DeparfanHit iaftron^cttt of
Jaansarr IS — c& v^tblr.^ ^mtil fartber ordaa tbe* parmect of ^^^mfr* dtatned
fncB i«a£jnEf alk^nKSt^ frK*m tbe aale of mberiud landf^ or fioai anj awut
wbaterwr. dae tbe Iferkan K^fkapKW ladiaatf m.^r rendsar ia M«xkiCN. ^ad aart
tbat b^t^'cwr of tbif arefXQ ttse' ladiaaa stajr aot be viDia^ to fsv^e tbe iafonaa-
rKJSi ib>7 Vvfci-'S if be v«?>e ia a pc^st^.m to> i&aiM' au^e o(f tbeac j^fcjrjataia.
He aiTKS tbiit be be a^en di»n«tiaa ia tbe Btatter. •» tbat be bulj be able
to brsnf mB^aum'* tr.^ l«e:LT oa tbe ladiast to iwh»r<> tbea to gjre bia tbe iafocsa-
t&w: t4i¥T bar^ abw3t tb*- traaa^^^io*-
rw&er tbe f::2TrQ2BfC£aKiefi. I bar^t tbe bc«or to reieoiajLifd tbat aatboriQr be
Crc^ed t±ie ^ap^T^JiQtiefidHnit of tbe 9h»wmit ladiaa m^M4 to prc«eced ^ f«eb
pc'saa* 2fc tbe R*7*Qfe*:ir- <-< ItftexyiO' a« aaj Sif sifinfary tso. amcft Jir- G**iw:pf A_
Odntit Jn BsiJ^-inr tbe 3S2T«««bu>tyi<v lad>^t«d: tbat be aif»<> be aotbc^iKd to
at aac to caeead «i» pv «u aad aaa
1990 AFFAIB8 OF THB MBXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
interpreter at not to exceed $4 a day, and that he also be authorized to pay
the traveling and other necessary expenses Incurred by himself or on behalf
of the interpreters employed, and that he be authorized to expend not exceeding
$500 for the foregoing expenses, payable from the appropriation " Ck)ntingencle8
of the Indian Department 1906/' which will not be exhausted if the authority
Is granted.
It is further recommended that the superintendent of the Shawnee school
be authorized to make such payments of lease money or Inherited land money
to Indian allottees or their heirs in Mexico as he may think advisable from
funds due them and now on deposit to his official credit as Individual Indian
moneya
It is proper to state here that a measure is pending in Congress directing the
payment of certain moneys to these Indians; but the funds referred to in this
letter have no connection whatever with those covered by the legislation, the
funds the superintendent desires to pay out being the Individual property of the
Indians over which the Department exercises control by virtue of the trust rela-
tion. The Department letter of January 13, 1906, covered all funds, but if the
Office recommendation is approved it will be a modification affecting only the
Individual moneys belonging to the Indians and not funds covered by the pend-
ing legislation.
Mr. Thackery suggests that some notice of the intended trip to Mexico and
the object for which it is to be made be given to the consular representatives of
the United States in that country and that they be requested to assist. When
the Office made a preliminary investigation of this case the State Department
was asked to aid, and through the ambassador to Mexico great help was
obtained, and a like course would be advantageous in the present Instance ; but
as the Interior Department's employees are to assist the Department of Justice,
it is presumed that the latter has made the necessary representations to the
State Department However, It may be well to bring the matter to the atten-
tion of the Attorney-General.
Very respectfully, O. F. TiARBABinc,
Acting Oommisaioner.
[Telegram.]
Shawnee, Okiju, May IS, 1906.
Ck>MMissioNEB Indian Affairs, Washington, D, C:
About 20 Kickapoo Indians were deceived Into secretly leaving for Mexico
yesterday, the object evidently being to make them nonresidents and get deeds
for their allotments under supposed legislation by this Congress.
Thaokeby, Buperintendeni.
United States Indian Agency,
Shatonee, OJbto., May 19, 1906.
The Ck>MMi88i0NEB OF Indian Affaibs,
Washkigtan, D, 0.
Sib : I have the honor to refer to your letter dated May 8, 1906, authorizing
me to visit such places In Mexico as may be found necessary in assisting the
assistant United States attorney in investigating matters relative to Mr. Bent-
ley*s connection with the Kickapoo Indiana, and to state that the assistant
United States attorney and myself will start for Mexico on Monday, the 21st
instant It will be necessary for us to stop several days at Bagle Pass, Tex.,
the point where these Indians come across into the United States to sign all
papers.
Our success In getting at the real facts In this whole transaction depends
largely, in my opinion, upon the failure of Mr. Bentley and Mr. Fields to secure
the legislation they have been so diligently working for during the present
Congress, to wit the removal of the restrictions from the Kickapoo lands or
the payment of moneys claimed to be due the Kickapoos. If they are success-
ful in securing this legislation, their strength both with the Indians and the
white people, who know most about this transaction, will be greatly increased ;
but on the other hand, if they fall to aecurd thla legislation, both the Indiana
AWTMias am toe wiginiw kkxafoo nmLorsL 1991
wiSa^p a* icvval tke inni fiKts M tke vksir case. TiKRCHe tke i^|e«t to ^
tkm fiecsr it ip vb«bk9K thct I he aiiwved k?^ wire st Easfie Piuiu Tcau ft
d»fie£j sfter He pftfwynf ^t the lodisiii awrvpcissfiaB ftiD as «» wheihei- «
ae- ^mimaftTHBgCi !• o^M bcEL 2i§ rief ennHi q» al^we. how fiianw rt We wifl j
shl9^ft« £n. TSbt rieSmSj «€ Eaiefie P^es wp immmA imt&ammg Jwmt ^i
P^i^ ^ Em^ Fm», Tt:M^ Mmti £»>
. F. E. Lmrrr.
CnmmnnmtT mf ImHmm AWmwrn^ Wmtiiimgttsm, />. C
es^y- itf £ Becrer wriUea fev- kfuft to Bi!>iaL H«im7 TccrefL Caiad Scxtts
Ssa AiEO^tii^ T«x:, whaeh ni suM-'^tT^iaus^^sej aad R£as t» the
W. iL Ri^fSBets: pcvsfieEt 4€ zhat B^wdec XatBoaof Baafc af ths pfiaae. with the
aanB^e^aiS «^ T^&r:<^ juinita otf ansch vaftae fron Mexiea laCF> dlie ZmsmA ^ases.
TMft leiffla ^ m£eski3t vciy cfio^^sKTiefjr that accther Mil Bsmect aor the Bocdo'
SatE]&0!^ Bi^sk. ^Is^^alA yt incTTDHiftii vtth the fc— *^"'r?ftg «f aiqr msagj dae the
fnttia^>» fpHn tte Cmf^ed ;Stxi:J»» G<vv«fiEni»s£. Hy '^i^itxt M wrsimi^ j^vm af the
nasBeff aad 4f mftrsm^ tf> Mr. I>;w«ra Di^nBer t» the hoaocibde- gtej^taiy af
tte TmaemBj. diLtied the ^h owliixl vas t» ^tye yaa wiBiap-drane aad <ilnlaiiir la-
fenii:idil8K «( x^ case fa ani»' t&st saeh s^m/m as p^v i&sa^sht pso^pcr aisht
ke eaaaea «r prvT^aat Oe ]pa:s>a^ <<s€ the pfP9c««tte£ fegaftotfaa vhcseftpf these I»-
Theci>- B a& dsohc hac tft^r nn^r^^picr ^'SfumuKSSsms exiat hctattn aaM teak aa4
Mk. Beae&qr. cod at tftte tfane we seesn t» fee to a fhir way of aKcrctJaiais
that wlB I.BMLlfj &Qgal pm-«^fKfim:ai c:siMsC ftiOthL Me, Dotv has aSicadr rem
«F T^a?- TiLMai^ie ■ifiliiii^e m t&os case;, aad will Seave aoChiaip lanainna* tB» i
f EH ggCBfgg gt the hacQBBi <otf tiMs whaie trtaaarlrfaai, Pieadeat gmyin ni
tttoi^y oude an* enrair ni fios nrcat R^^^fwcotiDeat af Mr. Doane:.
Mc Beatfie?' paaa^ tb^iovgh hesir jnacerdxj «■ has waj
#lhe p£ai« w&ere t&e KriHrapioo Loifiiii&s 2r^>'. sod whOe at Ais pAaee
hatSed toaeg*iiew winh Mil PiyaaiidL attawn, R£er?ad to. T^f hath sech
wrhat aMnaed.
Mil Oaiec^t Is toQ*t»ced to ifte ease aad to iiiisg all iftat he eaa to 1
aiwto af the fwfiaTaf i
: i£iiecce£7,
Jipii toira^Liif —d ^KgM
JrayiwXfML
Sb: Bc£errta^ ^ i^ tri^x^™ ^ the -tth tostaal. letoUffa to tkt aiJiejt aT
lifixis LsRdiecicv snd issiare aC ^aassads. 9wto» watHWa. aad «cher Jewc^rj.
Mid ftr hon z& 'ti^ wavth msae thaa flSilM^ I tep tii> ficate that mbfsm. tm» ssrRichB
a9^ Mc J^dn Cr»ftmix. ^?Mrf dieck «€ the Mexana IndKraata^nal BaEnMd dsam-
9KTj^ rn Eft^lf*' Piaa. «all«d at 07 «d6!iE:. reqaesczn^ a €msMmt±tl mserrtow. aad
MiSd me: t&a^ ie !iad poKtf^^ mffsemmtfan thct the laid Ledtoo^a' w%s iobs)^
g^o^ diiiimfu^ cad that h^ was feeto^ awH^fffgd ^ Bafiari Maof^a^L a pP9ccL&-
B«t BtegH^ni: Ds. CTndad P^ctr^ Dtos; Minfrwy aad WISBaB ^ BoaaeC pe«sD-
deaC a^ the E^zxryi^ Xat&au^ Baok. <gf Ea^ Paaa.
SfMK a:fter rfiax I wxs:t^ oEf focmatfisa ftisai S|pei!^al Asast Cwnwrwga. at Gal-
HI' I run I aJao -jifQcmrTg ise tfe^tt t&e sa^ Lee&eavEr was adreres^ai^ for 9£> ^itrm
^Biiiffifei '^f T^Is&Me d£siD6iii& at ^fias^on. Tex. wftise he ftas i >pw«£77 icsn&.
aad that he hstil ref!«rr«d nsfiKasattoa that !!i« watf iiiiacA^ht firooi Mex&ei%.
Oa Che evvaeBc '9^ the 2d nistaal. aha«t 5 <»'<la«fc to the aftoraooai^ I
1993 AFFAIES OF THB MEXICAK KIOSAPOO IHDIANB.
the American end of It I met Rafael Muzqnis and Lonis Lechenger in a buggy,
coming from the Mexican side. As soon as they got ont of sight I turned my
buggy around and followed them. I saw their buggy stop in front of the Bor-
der National Bank, and saw Mr. Lechenger take a large valise out of the buggy
and carry it into the bank. I followed him to the depot the next morning, and
at the station I instructed Inspector Baldwin to watch him closely. After the
train started I secured the smoking room of the sleeping car and invited Mr.
Ijecli(*nger into it, Inspector Baldwin bringing his valises. I had Mr. Lechenger
to make a verbal declaration as to the contents of his valise, and he stated that
it contained some Jewelry that he had exported from Eagle Pass on the 18th day
of April, 1900, and produced the inclosed export certificate as a verification of
his statement. He stated that It contained nothing of foreign manufacture nor
any articles that were dutiable. He also stated, in reply to my questions, that
he had nothing on his person that was dutiable. After he had completed his
statement we opened the valise and commenced an inventory of the contents
thereof, comparing same with the export certificate. We discovered that he
had a number of Swiss watches that he says are worth about |1,8Q0, also six
American watch cases with Swiss movements, also a quantity of valuable set
diamonds and other Jewelry, that are not included in the export certificate.
^'pon examination of his person, in his purse, taken from his coat pocket, I
found a diamond earring that he says belongs to a man by the name of Fer-
nandez, at Parral. Mexico, value $80. He also states that two of the Swiss
watches were sent to him at Houston, Tex. ; that one of them is the proi)erty of
Frank B. James, at Monclova, Mexico, and that the other belongs to a man by
the name of Lobo, also of Monclova, Mexico. He values these two watches at
$300. He declines to state from whom he received them.
The fourteen Swiss watches and the six watches with Swiss movements and
the other Jewelry (set diamonds), which is not Included in the certificate of
exportation, and of which there is no evidence, except his word, that they were
ever in the United States before, were all in the same valise with the balance
of the Jewelry.
Even If the contents of his valise had been the same that he exported It would
have been necessary for him to secure a consular Invoice, make an entry, and
secure a permit before bringing them Into the United States. This he did not
do. but simply brought them In without authority.
I have seized all the goods and arrested Mr. Lechenger. United States com-
missioner at this point is In a dying condition, and I will take Mr. Lechenger
to San Antonio to-day and prefer charges against him for smuggling before the
commissioner at that place.
It should be stated that this Is the third time that he has been arrested at
this i)ort for smuggling. Inclosed is his own sworn statemont, signed by hfm,
and the export certificate, under cover of which he brought all of the mer-
chandise In, also an inventory of the jewelry giving the values as he stated
them to me.
Very respectfully, R. W. Dowe, Collector.
[Telegram.]
MuzQUiz, Mexico, May 29, 1906.
Commissioner Indian Affairs,
Washington, D. (7.:
We find no title of record for KIckapoo Indians for land in Mexico, notwith-
standing Bentley's statement l)efore Senate committee.
F. A. Thackest, Superintendent.
[Telegram.]
Baglb Pass, Tez., June 1, 1906.
OoMMissioNER OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, Washington, D, C:
Mexican authorities at Muzquiz refuse to recognize Outcelt and myself as
OJa's rcpres<'n tut Ives of United States until they receive proper dlrectiomi
from Mexican Government We visited KIckapoo camp May 80 asul were
ordered away by policemen who were acting under writttp direction of chii»f
AFFAIBS or THE UETICAS KICKAFOO nnHASSL 1993
— aScIfittlHf, LmtKT mm iateiiiemcd aild oArfal rad llbnv
ft m^o*^t4(r for aa ovtx^nler to fiwjx^aie Klrt>aj#oo bLSMlft. eioe|43iss
te fsamMH- n%0j^nu(A vtih s^ifttmst trvtMoJam tjbot tbe linp AmerSeta
CHvail if i& 9t> to lls&v<^^ t^ tak^ JK^SBtcm^ticlc^jCSirijf to 4M«fti for B«af^. If
la^jiAf to p> tA» £;iue^ Fjl»» to afi^Hiir/riedpe dHento vb»ie iii»v voaad be cknb-
pef3ii^jo for %hff:T 'iMUi^ It if <n>d»uLii tlurt licxicaa lavf lair« teen rSotstcd
ia ^Setiisusft v'-^^^ K^iJti^jfm. *sA Om^i^ aiad icj'^ictf vrpt tkat aBtSK«-JtF be
gjraasi^ to ex|/«Bijd sicA «x<i^ih1jsi^ I^K^ oa eQE2$«^09naif 3fez>eaa Jitt^ariaeT' to ysfM^
cflie Tioib'ti'xstf of ll€x>*^£i Ihv^ ^ fS^lm^f with Kkik^fiixKia. Tltit artioo woald
feetaer o^^ns oip* tl^e ^:ftj«' f'O^' |^<r>o»««e^iis33<«i ia Caiicd Scsiicsft. OoCScyrtor <tf OmUfmm
0iwe •ct^aM rai^&er i2f T:khul^ jLH^it^LaiaK^e if Ik* ^loailKi be aatlKA-Jscd to e» aitJi
WSL Hit » velj i>-'g-i:Lt ]i.1jH(! Ixi )I«x>k> &x«(S i2i^<>r«:Lai2ylff ^iiesr bia^ aad aaja.
Woe ■* vbeti«er to vaut clMsei or ^^M^m^hett for foTtliin' <(Odcr«.
XHA£JLjaar. ^mperimiemdemL
T^KtJkXTMTWT or TKC T.WIKJUMK.
Orrsci '-^^ I^KLASf Ajtaihl
ir««Uii#loa. Jmm€ 2, J>ML
Hke SDcantAXT or the l3rraz3o&i
S!Ue: Os lUj 3L 3^401^ tiiliF 0;S<ie> miBam^xyfA a r?|M€t to the D^i^artiacat aad
mfK'jiaiSDH^'Vf^ Ticis* it^tlt.ritT %•*- ^Aiiii«id FTiak iL Tha*^iE£TT. ao^iiefiat^SkAasrt
af tkf*- ^Suiv^xwff Ttis:i: i£r S'^cA f/> pcv^it*^ to 4^ M«xi«o to aaisit Mr. G. A.
Oaii^X <^ dM> I>»^^irDJM^f <X J^^KKe. ia 3^r«9CiqEataBs Battierf penaia^a^ to tke
fteitpdtdyffijT fiajEif^er of '.tt^taisi jtl^c-^tMn^^tiiit- 2«ar the titj of Skifraee h«4r^.«(Sias to
Sles&faa Kjria|iK.«oa. Sa vb3^ it If aik^^Hl that llartla J. B«atic7 ficsred Sa
a crzaisaal opacity. Ia Ho<f^B^ tkat recoct, tke Oft«cr aaiid:
* Mr. Tha^f^t^ aexap^fO tjhet auiae ^.<iKe oC tke iat«wi«d trf^ to Mextie^ aad
the «4!>*r5 f<^ '■rfe>ij it if ti> !•«• 2SEa4i>- !*• jt^»a to the <io«tFilar wyrtamna tiits
af the CajtJtvl l^^u-bef la tbat fr.^'GStirT c£ik| slu; thef be ntufmseu^ to aaiiit. When
tte Oih^c ttftde a pr^izLii^aTT iSiT^^n^jpiTk^ of thiis eaae. the Stato Depertncat
anis aikM to aid. aad iM^jta^ tbrt- aistMLi»iMloc to Mexico s^^iat belp aaa
■Xi'iaiiil- aad a like cioaone vr^^ be ^nti^v^zntfi'i'^ts- m the fwnLaiat i^FtajMe : bat
as tbe laierx*' Dtfartsvatf «9Bt|4ort«es afw- to asHt&ft tbe Depart—ftat of JaitiKe
U it prcmmitd t!stai t^ iKiner baa aa^e tbe BB^nnwiafT n-pn^ntrntDttm^ to tfee
State I>t^»rt2i**isi. H>o«^«^«r. st aaj be vtij to brsa^ tbe lataiter to tfee atteatioa
af tfee Atlftcaey-<J*«fcwaL''
Ob Mar * "tbe ainb^^-itj aik«d for was ^Tsxt^^ bjr tbe Defi^rtBeat aad Mk,
TfeaHbTT iir^'^5*«(l c« Majr ^
The OC&*i^ » a'."^ ia r?^*^*^pt 'j^ tfee f»54nkyiriffljf t«i<w?jaai fr^se Mr- Tha^^cerr :
•M*x3faa n-sTtb-.-iriTa** at Mmiqnm j»^i»e iio- rty>:cn32ie Ofct/reSt aad bbt***? as
Ola'c rMj^r^sjwj'LtTrr** <^ i^ Usiiied J^i^iifef aaiil tbcy reifeffrie proper dif»^'^r.Bi»
fPMi Mi^>^^2i C«'.T*r::vTr,^'^L We T^!«£fit*d K >dfciii<*"«Qi caas^ Mar 3ft aad w»we
««i4w»*!5 awaj |n- 5;*'-0>'-*ffiij«ij tr^ a*?*- »T^^ax ^aa-i^T a-rjisea dsr^irtica of rfeief
p«<3t»^^ <€" M^2ii'V'2''^ -luiri'^rT-ttiU'Tr. La't-er we 5at*TTiJiea*d fmH <Qd&<4al aad therf*
fead iiif <>*T'^S*r :r.'>T7i?»^<**'l- £uH5js«r it.-«?t ia reality it p&i^^iw Beotler ia fall
<w«trfj«i Mf T^ :Jtz>t r;< ^ »*2j-^ Ki i.aj;*':*^^! r»ade aith arrertJ |)n4iir»-r!&<^ ai
B«rt3e7^f ^.ni r:? -ly-l, w.^ ±3^ t-lztn fj^lhij-'^m aa»a at yi-^sv^mr to bay KVka !)»:■*>
faowl m -^aat- f»-^.r:» -.> -nt* ai* rKr,to^*-L B^cii^'f ♦^>'4*iDt <ft*^?^t la aurur'sor
<idb*'ja3 <ocxl«' 2s«*?L^.- ii-^ * til -re K 5r*?L to prt^*®? -oflar ^'T*Kit23pit>o«L aad. aeno^i.
to iii»lEe ^*t !tl;«-. **.!>> f :?' ta -vrjxfwiw- to p/ariiaisit K^^^prjo la»l$ ♦'xrifptifar
ttrwurjfc &*iSi'?;>y- It if fi;r:i»*T ?»^'-r!iiH(l a-tib afi^aiwat tratfefalataa that 1^
i air ir 1 11 iifee-»w««s] if to r'.- v> M-CT^'ri-iE 10 take a>«'-kir.>'«-|*dtca»»aiDi to d***"*« "^■'T
9iism^. If rMrrrx^rx'Cfif atr*- rr^Di*'.T.H4, tbif tfbciiald be pve^neated. tfeaa mMkimz it
m*n mnwj f<^ Ii»^ -urt* "irv r-> i/.- E-^rie Pafif t^> a**a»o^a4**5ze de«idsL abw^ : t*^-?*-
vaaU be fti:aBpi%*!rr>:Si f'.ir tbeir iiLi**4s. It w *rndtfmt ibat Mex»^aa Saw^ biT* t****^
%iiAaled ia 4leaija«i aiii^ KidU$^>^ asMl Oaxeait aad mjmU waigt tbat asib>r30'
1994 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
be granted to expend not exceeding $500 In employing Mexican attorney to
prosecute violations of Mexican law In dealing with Kk'kai>oos. This action
would better open up the case for prosecution in United States. Ck]41ector of
Customs Dowe could render us valuable assistance if he could be authorized
to go with us. He is well acquainted in Mexico and undorstniuls thoir laws
and ways. Wire me whether to wait here or elsewhere for further orders."
Informal Inquiry at the Department of Justice discloses that no arrangement
was made through the Department of State whereby Mr. Outcelt and Mr.
Thackery would be recognized and given the standing they should have before
the local officers of the Mexican Republic. It is also found that Mr. Outcelt
has telegraphed the Attorney-General, and that the Department of Justice has
this day prepared a communication addressed to the Department of State with a
view of giving Mr. Outcelt and Mr. Thackery the support and assistance of the
Mexican authorities.
As to the references to the vice American consul, I beg leave to invite atten-
tion to Office report of December 14, 1005, in which the matter of conveying
the KIckapoo allotments was considered at length, wherein this Office sald»
after showing the participation of the vice-consul In the fraud, If a fraud was
committed, that —
" The action of the vice-consul and of the American consul at Ciudad Porflrlo
Diaz, It seems to me, shcmld receive some investigation, or at least they should
make an explanation. ♦ • • Because of the part Mr. Martin and Mr. Bonnett
have taken in the matter of the deeds, extra copies of these reports are inclosed,
with the suggestion that If It meets with your approval they be laid l)efore
the State Department for such action as it may think proper In the i)remlses.
It is further suggested, however, that this might not bo advisable until after
the Department of Jusice and its representatives have passed upon the merits
of the charges and dcK-lded upon the procedure to be followed, as it may be
they would prefer to obtain some information or take some action before Mr.
Bonnett and his friends arc informed or alarmed."
Mr. Bonnett Is the vice-consul referred to in Mr. Thackery*8 telegram and
by communication from the collector of customs at Eagle Pass, addressed to
the Secretary of the Treasury, on May 4. He Is charged with being an accom-
plice In evading the customs laws.
It Is again suggested that the Department of State should have Information
concerning the transactions treated of In the report of December 14, and the
alleged part the vlce-<*onsul Intends to play In what this Othce believes to be a
most reprehensible transaction.
I have considered Messrs. Outcelt and Thackery's reconunendatlon that the
Office authorize the employment of a Mexican attorney for the purpose of prose-
cuting Mr. Bentley under the laws of Mexico relating to Intercourse with
Indians, and while I believe that such a course would facilitate the Investiga-
tion they are engaged in and tend to advance the ends of justice, the propriety
of such action Is doubted ; but it would api>ear that It Is perfectly proper for
this Government to ask the Mexican Government to Investigate the matter and
urge that those guilty of reprehensible and illegal practi<'e8 under the laws of
Mexico be prosecuted diligently. If tliis view meets with your approval, it Is
recommended that the Department of State be Informed coiicoming this trans-
action and asked to communicate with the M«'xican (Government with a view
of having Bentley and his confederates prosecuted vigorously and without delay.
It is evident from Mr. Thackery's telegram that the collector of customs at
Eagle Pass, Mr. Dowe, would be of great service to Mr. Outcelt In his present
Investigation, and while It is re<'ogni7.ed that any re<iuest for assistance on
liehalf of Mr. Outcelt should ordinarily come from the Department of Justice, It
Is l)elieved that this case warrants the Department In asking the Secretary of
the Treasury to instruct Mr. Dowe to devote as nuich time as possible to assist-
ing Mr. Outcelt and give him all the help In his power.
It may be added that the telegram from .Mr. OutctHt to the Department of
Justice shows that he, Mr. Outcelt, sent Mr. Thackery to Eagle Pass to send
the telegram first above mentioned.
It is therefore respectfully recommended that the Treasury Department be
asked to dinn't Mr. Dowe to assist in this investigation at such times and on
such occasions as his services can be spared and whenever they will be of
advantage to Mr. Outcelt
Very respectfully, C. F. Larraree,
Acting Commissioner.
AFFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 1995
United States Customs Sebvice,
Port of Eagle Pass, Tex., June 2, 1906.
The Ck)MMissiONEB of Indian Aftaibs, s
Washington, D. G.
Sib : I have the honor to refer to my telegram of yesterday with reference to
the Mexican officials refusing to recognize Mr. Outcelt and myself as repre-
sentatives of the United States until they received proper directions from the
Mexican Government and to explain the matter further as follows :
We left Shawnee on May 21, arriving here on the 23d of May. Upon our
arrival here we called upon CJoilector of Customs R. W. Dowe» who has been
exceedingly kind and helpful to us in our work. He advised us of the difficulties
be has had with Mr. W. A. Bonnett, president of the Border National Bank of
this place, in the way of smuggling diamonds and other valuable articles across
from Mexico in order to avoid paying duty. Mr. Dowe has other apparently
conclusive evidence against Mr. Bonnett along the same line, wliich is not
mentioned In the copy of his letter which I mailed you a few days ago. Mr.
Bonnett*s connection with this smuggling appears to date back several years
and is believed to have been quite extensive.
That there is an improper connection with this Mr. Bonnett and his father,
J. A. Bonnett, vice-consul at this place, on one side and Mr. Bentiey on the
other, I have but little doubt. The general reputation of these two men (Mr.
Bonnett and his son) here where they have lived for many years is not very
good. It is evident, then, that any moneys due the Indians of this locality
should be paid to them through some other source than the Border National
Bank, as is, or was, originally specified in the Indian bill now pending before
Congress. As suggested in my telegram, it was arranged by Mr. Bentiey for
the vice-consul, J. A. Bonnett, to go with Bentiey to the Indian camp near
Muzquiz, Mexico, for the purpose of taking the acknowledgments to deeds
in the event that the restrictions are removed from the Kickapoo and other
allotments. This should be taken up with the State Department with the view
of having Mr. Bonnett directed not to take the acknowledgments to these deeds.
Before leaving Eagle Pass, and by the assistance of Mr. Dowe, we secured
letters of introduction from the Mexican federal Judge of the Muzquiz. district
to the authorities at Monclova and Muzquiz, Mexico. Monclova is the town
where all deeds and land transactions are recorded for the whole district
wherein the Indians propose to purchase lands and reside. We went from
here to Monclova, and after the authorities there had made a careful search
of the records (three days* search), the official in charge of the land office
gave us a certificate showing that nothing had been recorded in his office
showing title of any description to any lands in his district, either in the
name of Mr. Bentiey or of the Indians. We then proceeded to Muzquiz and on
the morning of May 30 called at the office of the highest official of that locality.
He was not there, so we left our card and went out to the Kickapoo camp,
about 12 miles distant, not having met the official. We reached the Indian camp
about 3 o'clock p. m., and found the Indians mostly all dancing. We did not
bother them nor even talk to them more than to greet those who spoke to us,
or to answer the few questions asked of us. With the exception of John Mine
and his brother Wah pe che quah, the Indians seemed pleased to see us, in-
viting us to stop at their camp and eat with them.
In a few moments after reaching the camp we Joined some other white men
where they were fishing in the Sabinas River near by. We returned to the
Indian camp about dark and found Wah pe che quah waiting for us. Upon ap-
proaching close to him he advised us that we must leave their camp and that
the Mexican officials had so directed. We advised him that we would obey the
Mexican officials but not him. Soon after- reaching the camp the Mexican
policemen (I think there were four) appeared and stated that they were
directed by the chief politico to request us to leave the Indian camp immedi-
ately or we would be arrested. This order included all white men on the
grounds. Heory Jones, our Indian interpreter, and a Mr. Beaty then stated
&at the Mexican policemen had, a short time previously, showed them the
order, and that it was signed by Martin J. Bentiey rather than by the chief
politico. We then asked the policemen to permit us to see the order, but they
would not or at least did not show it to us. They insistwl. however, tiint it
was from the chief politico at Muzquiz, whereupon we agreed to leave the
1996 A77AIBS OF THB MEXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Indian camp and land. We went to Musqniz that night and called upon the
chief politico the following morning. He had an interpreter (Doctor Long)
read us his order in English. The order as interpreted to us amounted to the
placing of Mr. Bentley in full control of the land where the Indians are
located with several policemen at Bentley*8 command. No person, therefore,
can see or talk to one of the Indians unless he do so through Mr. Bentley or
take the risk of being arrested by the Mexican policemen.
It is very evident that Mr. Bentley's object is to prevent our investigation,
and to make it impossible for the other white men who are there to buy land
to deal with the Indians excepting through him. We found eight Oklahoma
men at Muzquiz for the purpose of buying Kickapoo lands in the event of the
removal of the restrictions. These eight men represent many other men in
Oklahoma wfto have sent the cash here to pay the Indians for their lands.
While they exi)ect to get it cheap, I am convinced that they will pay three or four
times the amount that Mr. Bentley expects to pay them. A further part of Mr.
Bentley*s scheme seems to be, as referred to before, to have the American vice-
consul, J. A. Bonnett, go to this land where Mr. Bentley has the Indiana so com-
pletely under his control, to take their acknowledgments to deeds, thus avoiding
a possibility of Mr. Bentley not being able to purchase every Kickapoo allot-
meut In Oklahoma. If Mr. Bonnett is prevented from going over there to
take these acknowledgments then the Indians must come to Eagle Pass to
acknowledge these deeds, and whenever they get into our country there will be
sharp competition for the purchase of their lands. This competition seems to
l>e exactly what Mr. Bentley wants to avoid. Since telegraphing you yesterday
Mr. Dowe informs me that Vice-Consul Bonnett called at his office last
evening and spoke of the Bentley-KIckapoo case, stating that Bentley wanted
him (the vice-consul) to go to Muzquiz to take the acknowledgments to the
KickapDo deeds. Mr. Bonnett wanted Mr. Dowe*s advice In the matter, and
Mr. Dowe urged him to have nothing whatever to do with the acknowledgments
to the deeds even If Mr. Bentley and the Indians called upon him at his post
of duty, which is Just across the river In Me^co from this town (Eagle Pass).
Mr. Bonnett promised, or gave Mr. Dowe to understand, that he would have
nothing further to do with the matter.
In my telegram of yesterday I urged that authority be granted to employ a
Mexican attorney to prosecute violations of Mexican laws In this Kickapoo
case. Both Mr. Outcelt and Mr. Dowe concur with me In this plan. It seems
very essential in order to get a proper start for prosecution in the United
States. It is further advIsaMe as a means of protection to botji the United
States and Mexico, because I am convinced that unless some decisive steps are
taken (assuming that the restrictions will be removed from the Kickapoo and
other Indian lands) to protect the rights of these Indians under the laws of
both the United States and Mexico they are going to lose everything they hare
in the United States without acquiring anyhing in Mexico. They will then be
paupers on the hands of either the United States or Mexico. The question
for our country to decide at this time seems to me to be which country is to
be burdened with them as such pappers. It seems to me that the United States
should now, before it is too late, have such an understanding with Mexico as
will definitely settle this point.
If these Indians are to lose all that we have given them hi our country, we do not
want Mexico to call upon us to take these Indians back to the United States as she
has already done once about thirty-flve or forty years ago. If they are to settle in
Mexico as her citizens, it should be to the interest of Mexico to see that they
acquire a proper title to some land upon which to live and work out their
subsistence. The United States should have an equal interest in their getting
a proper title to land In Mexico, in order that they may not drift back upon
us penniless. Again, it Is my opinion that the men who are back of this
scheme of removing Indians from the United States to Mexico fully expect to
make it a wholesale business, covering as many tribes of Indians as they can
persuade into their trap. I urge, therefore, that the part of the United States
in this matter be thorough. We should have the fullest supi>ort possible In the
way of authorities, and any assistance that your office can secure for us
through the Treasury Department or through the State Department with the
Mexican officials should be given at once.
Mr. Dowo stntos that ho would willingly go with us into Moxico and assist
OS, if authorized to do so by his Department He has l>een in this country
A7VAIB8 OF THB MEXIOAK KICEAPOO INDIANS. 1997
many years, and has a large acquaintance with both Mexicans and United
States officials of this locality. He speaks Spanish, and is well acquainted
with Mexican laws and ways. He would be of great assistance to us furtlier,
as his whole heart seems to be bent on the exposure of crookedness and the
purification of political and Goyemment matters generally.
Very rei^pectf ully,
Frank A. Thackeby,
Superintendent and Special Diabursinff Agent.
[TelegranL]
Eagle Pass, Tex., June 2, 1906.
CoMMissiONEB INDIAN AFFAIRS, Washington, D. O.
Message Just received from Outcelt, at Mu^uiz, as follows :
" Murdock and three other Indians arrested. ^lurdock was put to work on
street as soon as Bentley learned he was- employed as our Interpreter. Bentley
made a speech at camp last night, in which he stated that he would have
every Indian sent to Jail who did not deed him their land. Field is here. Wire
Department full particulars.
•* Outcelt."
Authority should be granted at once to employ Mexican attorney and as-
sistant of Mexican officials secured at earliest possible date.
Thackery, Superintendent.
[Telegram.]
Eagle Pass, Tex., June 5, 1906,
Commissioner Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C:
Have Just had a long consultation with most eminent and reliable Mexican
attorney of northern Mexico after fully understanding the whole Kickapoo
matter this attorney urges that Outcelt and myself take delegation of five In-
dians to Mexico City and lay whole matter before President Diaz asking Diaz
to send a Government commission to Muzquiz immediately with full authority
to act in this whole matter because of apparent connection of Bentley with
local officials at Muzquiz. The above plan is the only proper solution of the dif-
ficulty. Mexican attorney here is certain that Diaz will promptly comply with
Joint request from Indians and our Government This will bring whole matter
fairly before Mexican Government Our State officials should be directed to
arrange matters for us in Mexico City. Should Indian bill pass with pro-
Tisloiis for payment of money or for removal of restrictions the President
should be vigeA not to sign bill at least until proposed Mexican Government
commlaslon reaches Muzquiz.
Thackery, Superintendent.
Department of the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, June 4, 1906.
The Sbcretabt of ths Interior.
Sir: In connection with the report submitted under date of June 2, 1906,
relative to the investigation undertaken by the I^epartment of Justice with a
view of obtaining evidence on which, to prosecute Martin J. Bentley and his
confederates for their alleged illegal acts in obtaining title to certain allot-
ments near Shawnee, Okla., belon^^iug to members of the Mexican Kickapoo
tribe, I have the honor to report the receipt of two telegrams from Mr. Thack-
ery, the first dated June 2, 1906, and the other June 3, 1906, the first' reading as
follows :
" Message Just received from Outcelt at Muzquiz as follows :
^ ' Murdodc and three other Indians arrested. Murdock was put to work on
street as toon as Bentl^ learned he was employed as our interpreter. Bentley
1998 AFFAIB8 OFTHS MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
made a speech at camp last nigbt, in which he stated that he would have every
Indian sent to Jail who did not deed him their land. Field is here. Wire De-
partment full particulars.
" * OUTCELT.*
''Authority should be granted at once to employ Mexican attorney, and assist
ant of Mexican officials secured at earliest possible date."
And the second :
'' Have Just had a long consultation with most eminent and reliable Mexican
attorney of northern Mexico. After fully understanding whole Kickapoo mat-
ter this attorney urges that Outcelt and myself take delegation of five Indians
to Mexico City and lay whole matter before President Diaz, asking Diaz to send
a Government commission to Muzquiz immediately with full authority to act in
this whole matter because of apparent connection of Bentley with local officials
at Muzquiz. The above plan is the only proper solution of difficulty. Mexican
attorney here is certain that Diaz will promptly comply with Joint re-
quests from Indians and our Government This will bring the whole matter
fairly before Mexican Government Our State officials should be directed to
arrange matters for us in Mexico City.. Should Indian bill pass with provisions
for payment of money or for removal of restrictions the President should be
urged not to sign the bill, at least until the proposed Mexican Government com-
mission reaches Muzquiz."
It would appear that Mr. Outcelt is in communication with the Department
of Justice, but as he is located at Muzquiz it is barely possible that his tele-
grams are not as full and complete as those of Mr. Thackery or that they may
have bt»en delayed in transit. Hence it is believed to be advisable to give the
Department of Justice the benefit of the information conveyed by Mr. Thackery.
Th;' plan which the latter proposes for bringing the affairs of these Indians
to the attention of the Mexican Government is probably a good one, and atten-
tion is respectfully invited thereto with the hope that some prompt measures
may be taken to protect those whom this office has sent to Mexico from illegal
imprisonment and from otherwise being ill-used by those who are engaged in a
schiMiie to defraud these Ipnorant Indians of their property and are apparently
enabled to use the local authorities of the Mexican Government to further their
object.
It may be advisable to furnish the conference committees on the Indian
appr« priation bill copies of the telegrams, for it seems incredible that Ck)ngre8S
would i)as8 a measure that would enable Bentley and Fields to carry out their
scheme if they are using the measure to effect their ends as charged in these
telegrams, and as the person making the charge is responsible this office has no
doubt as to their truth.
Very respectfully, O. F. Labrabee,
Acting Commissioner.
[Telegram.]
Eagle Pass., Tex., June 4, 1906.
Commissioner Indian Affairs, WoHhinyton, D. C:
Vice-Consul Bonnett has declined to go to Muzquiz to acknowle<lj;e deeds, but
has arranged for Consular Agent M. O. Harsh, of Sierraniojada. Mexico, to go
In his place.
Thackery, Superintendent,
[Telegram.]
EAGI.E Pass, Tex., June 5, 1906.
CoMMissiONEB INDIAN AFFAIRS, Washington, D, C:
Reliable Indian informs me to-day that Hentley now has all roads to Indian
camp guarded and t^ith assistance of Mexican policemen no person is allowed
to enter or leave Indian camp, except by Bentley's permission. I sincerely
hope in l>ehalf of Indians that restrictions will not be removed and no money
paid Indians at present
Thaoksbt, Superintendent,
AFFAOB €sr THK MEXICAN: KirKja>!QO nmrjLSis. 1999
CiTKX fir I9IMLA3F Jkwwm
EjUEILf PjkSft. TlTT..
M^ S» JL ^Jt§ ^rUlitt^.
Fraiw-g Paso. Tck.
CBCtHT '^c Li»u.T^ IniLiia -aaij;?-.. *x-i*pc fey BiMitli*?''* p»*vnLiiiiHiiiL I ^ai«imfiy Impe
te tw^ilf Off £ntl.aji:i' cliEUi ?«*icrut'Lj>iici wiU oa^ ^ ffimuy^i^ti jouA iM* ouaiii^j' faii
e F,
{TT^toggTim, I
EdUBU VjkStL. Tel^ Jmmtt C J9iML
If r:iit::ta b'H pii-*tH*^ v^^m^i^jiiiz im*fCrj!'Ci'>Q» fimm. ImfiitJi tr13taw wMsmtA. ghMiriiB
lfip^B«Mf "j-, K^^A\f'i ^A w^txi a.4 piv»#i«":6*. intf 4lT»*n)i{j l!i*vi»- tifcMr pifiam w<»fl amuja^iwi
I itjzL.TL Trj3» T^iT Pr^**^iii*Tit ^ lukAii. D* T*G». fiiifiarfl; hSE cf Bitirmwatgy q* i
Hininiii !Li id 'it "hJA ^J^^^soa.
TftTjkxnasrs fir S^ulti;.
to ?<»r»4;ajB»- K.-^t*Hr% •x. JL «>i:ni!tHt ;a2Li-£ Frajiic A. TlsiidcityT' a» gifgRflmitog£fie»
Ea ir^pC? £ iia?-*- ini^ iivOi-jr ^^ juf-iciL jin ti&ttx '^AfMass fif tott Decoes' and fiif
to» ini*ii.mir»^ iui^o- >h»ii 4*»^n di^ f^a^ to xhit Am<Mr1gaa. ain6ii:JBa4i()r to lif'yfif
tor iii» iuf-1/mia.-.r.ii, ^.^lii ji.^jrii':LjiQt» to «iuikHL7i»e to je«an>r ^imwag^ citolfex&am
€««n«nmii^!ir ^i_ ..r#*rrT f^c Me^*wr%. •>x&«it: a2ii4 TtaefcMy to ^sterj mk tke
iBf««ii£atLi'/a in -v^j-n zht>^ as^ •uup.p^i. ajui fnttft. jairiaczaxK' &«»a tike- Jfexfi^xa
todHT&i ami j>*a. a^/iniivr.tu^ as i:s in;kj b«»- pcr>pi»r to srv« tilenu cod to iuuiuiLit
CEUKft fer AJLj TXM^^JL -^ MifTftma fiedesaJi fir Jtoto finr tlKC cl^ax mmj ke
|pT*^«*j- filL
2U00 A77AIB8 OF THB HEXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
At the Ingtance of the Attorney-General, a telegram was sent to the ambas-
sador on the 4th instant directing him to request the Mexican Government to
aslc the Muzquiz authorities to permit the iuvestigation to proceed and to
further it in every proper way.
I have the honor to be» sir, your obedient servant,
Robert Bacon,
Acting Secretary.
Department of the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, June 8, 1906.
The Secretary of the Interior.
Sib: In connection with the various reports submitted by this Office on the
subject of the investigation now being lield, conducted by representatives of
the Department of Justice, for the i)urpo8e of determining whether proceed-
ings will lie against Martin J. Bentley for his alleged fraudulent transactions
In the matter of obtaining title to Kickapoo allotments, I have the honor to
submit for your consideration in connection with those reports the following
telegram, dated June 6, 1906, received from Superintendent Thnokery, now at
Eagle Pass, Tex.
'* If Indian bill passes removing restrictions from Indian tribes named
therein as affiliating with Kickapoos, Bentley and associates e?u)e<-t to remove
said tribes to Mexico as soon as possible, and already have their plans well
arranged to accomplish this work. The allotments of all of said tribes are
valuable for farms, and Cherokee- Shawnee allotments are es[>ecially valuable
for oil. I again urge that the President be asked to veto Indian bill, if neces-
sary to prevent consummation of this scheme."
Very respectfully, 0. F. Labbabee,
Acting Commisaioner.
UNmcD States Customs Servtoe,
Port of Eagle Pass, Tcw^ June 15, 1906.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Washington, D, 0.
Sir : I have been shown a copy of your letter of recent date to the honorable
Secretary of the Interior, having reference to the Hentley-Kickapoo matter,
and in which you refer in part to the connection of Mr. J. A. Bennett, vice
American consul. In said matter. In order that the fullest information may be
had in tills matter when it is taken up, I have the honor to make the following
suggestions for your further consideration In the (*ase: First, I would state
that I have no definite knowledge of the report made by Supervisor Charles
H. Dickson relative to the connection of Mr. Bcmnett in the Bentley matter,
but I do know that Mr. Bonnett has told various persons, to wit : U. W. Dowe,
collector of customs this place; Russell Johnson, assistant cashier of the State
National Bank, of Shawnee, Okla., and Doc Beaty. a saloon man of Oklahoma
City, Okla., and others, that the report of Supervisor Dickson was false from
beginning to end, or something to this effect.
Mr. Bonnett has exerted an undue influence in this Bentley matter against
both Mr. Dickson and myself, and It n^ust follow that such influence was also
against the best Interests of the Interior Department that we represented.
From the best information I can get Mr. Martin, the c(m.<«ui at this place. Is not
at fault in the matter. He has the confidence and good will of the people of
this Iwallty and Is generally believed to be an honest and conscientious official.
Mr. Bonnett, the vice-consul, on the other hand, does not bear this general good
reputation. That Mr. Bonnett has made Improper statements, and thus done
his part in creating a wrong impression in this locality and In Mexico, as to the
position of the Interior Department in Its actions it?latlve to this Indkan matter
Is evident. That he has likewise made improper statements about Mr. Dickson
and myself, without knowing or even attempting to ascertain from disinterested
persons or from anyone other than Mr. Bentley or his confwlerates the real
facts or the truthfulness of the statements he made, Is also evident
ATWAOS or TBE MKZICAS KJOUNO 0mLiJC&. SOQl
iB Mkis2f <qC Mi:, timss^ I 4» mq icuw. Bpoi as aa
! «r thcf Ca^iftfl SftKBBF GvrtrmiiBi!!. af v^^ «i]w Mi:. D^^iowb. ^ swsbk •»
iranfcr «f Mr. BantSi^. Is 4iaii^ vikisi ^ "did te ^iBiriali^r ow^iwui ll«f juauwatti
<«tf i!te Caoitefl SittSBE. vftBO^ issiaftsS3k wi&tt ^uin&fii M» luf ii«RiRtKii% as ^ltp^"^wt
tt^ jsaanaim otf a tim^ luftirafftislL iter acs^uus 4tf v^hoei iter Cajsed flBaStf -vnw-
DiHIsn ^s-pfssasrrtkm. ino^ Mi:. D^^cwb «at4 niT^Blf «%Bie flui iff Mi:. Iksi^ky
3b ite snm 4tf 4BMi(i([f%. jkimer tboM* airier n&utu jit Ijoonas? «ir i&l» jncax. ute
Km^ Fine. Tcx:^ mfl «t MiiByiuL MezJtMi. M^^i^icf joid J. 9. ITmiAs t«ir :~
4f •A»!pcfHrt5iiii» as )iGQ& ftews ii^i«« aaaHfO.
J. JL. Ikaiustx. aSi«iefK54 '• . «ufl aanfoi? tiicr -9rr:ueiiii»s «3Liai:iu»fti as Eat^ I^itfls
irns Mi:. J. JL. S&uusftflrL.. iSx* T-jfAM^HifeBiiL w1» 4q|:i^#»sti3«fifl jis t^ i^tgiMsK ^ttf Mir.
Reuflcsr. aufl af «Mr ^ itiff w^KOustmat. Lmaier^ w^itat w^ wvasx frvBi Eai^ Vmam
HP MvBQiuiL M€x5w(. ^ tslBC' finlkffr ^^^n^slMats m rdK* •e&«b. ja iras arsaaisKii
ifibas labi; lielkiai^ 4i(f tSl» 'dc^MfttSHiff ^kitoM W tEndBfat ^^teSnrt X JL EinauffiL t&w-
vaunL. tout I •tltinrir: licKi ^ "J. JL Skoiwicti was it^^^vasyt^ ^ iltac ^C^cni^ ^vApe
mS 12bf lSii?4 >ii2i'iEiJ disu^ ^ OkflslMODa. to a«iue 'taptiif-JirT. -g^ub tiftie mvik«t
«tf jtofniflfr ii» tfeiH' ilkfff 4e9iw£":Juuf is McxSml JLi aagr ncs& ite 4k«^jfiir:Hmf -a^wir
mlrffir tat^rc Mr. Eomien art Mubqvbk. ani aoKOtir ^n^ier -a^tneinef v^- a$9«»«r
JiflT 1^ }iltLhi:!ixf' -was ilif- ;ire«jteirjcf «f tikif MuBguiz 2uiiXLki':^itLB:tj. Wlnsn Hm
arSEtanas aas -^alM Mr. Bwrnerr l»ift liie mwi} «iii»fpe tii*- -d»9iiifBi:3i«iBi a%ff% VtuB^
tidBEBDL I T^Kfv^Sut DsniLhi? «f iiis leer^hi^ as i^ TiilTnig ftf ^t^iMfiei^gns iai
I kafi UttT ftej rfn»rr>fd £ leni^r Iraiit Jfe. D^i^iEBaii iax^S^^a/^ a >i!taer aUreaRii
^ §mX jewui^arjb. w1s3l 'dnr rtsyncat fsitm Mr. l>^Ja«D ilai I ynsfiBizi auA
ledes' t» Hftr jrviuteixur and a^ Mm a» iB^^Kaa- as a viflaKas Sw Ms:. L^i^^savm.
matt lajmeUi. Wlen nSut taaatog ^ 4eifBart5'^iBs aras «n9iBD>A«t. as k(tf«Rr sRasuA.
Mt. Wwifls saifl 3i?]r«B>f ^aJStid as liK* ^d&<» '«tf ISk' }«r»i»A«ar&ff «» smtaem Mr.
I^JtdkMafa Seller. Hbs ^kfon^ aAsr Ifkif jiAsjuijfr lad aai&tiimi»ii Uhcr jinertft^aiEs
as i£ff nerr -vlimcaE. and tts -vr*^ ^s£t«rad iii»' •tdEeie 4^ HSmr ^Bva&yesat wt Smai
M^. J. JL B'.aiii»*nr xnd '!^ ;i7»fHitein« giaiiffrpg' sttar nwegnlbM. wteme flfaf $iK9f5-
<Aeia^ in€ «Tjid»sin2j ^wau^ irvoL ^o^ -af&eft ^aa.'y ^ ssvet Ms:. BumiCCL Tte
jMPVBk^amit 'va.-f- rf^&rur » >«n.-«? z^sir, fniiL iJj a;-i^«>aia2)«a bad jKat ^om iaakAai
lunt ^ Mr, l^cimierL Xb*. 'V'.i'.f^ I».^«ca.. and 2D?a(itf ancn; t2ha drfiBtoftMCs jb
«ftK- £]id ai> BiK^ 6»^«it&ti2s aif iad a rSig^ la msA andb «T!iAfi9kw as
1 iies«r i&ieir 'jii«t : \nxL 'd. Mr. B«ixuiic bad i^v^ea l&a sHne^Asute thai letter
to ^riK!fOiii< ±b ili«' iin.'^TrtiBS c<f «£!&«- ^uiLJiiiiar •(T dcffiEOkdicaL ht aas Auiac a
wnmi^id aca. ifu:^ ai^ ilttr fusrv-ub is^^Mosatut v^ ftmr iter cv^feBoc aad as raaB-
^iiinBUi «r itef r-szJiAd £ura«&. I^a- a^n^cuis ^ Mr. B«aiiKitl to tbas ^eaaaSiPf \
firani Iter ix^nni^ig i* iter }F»si»ia i^xutr -boid i» iteMr tOai tbte
C$v«a M» 1^ pr%«i6^2xrK' nt ^du^- iirusreKa of Mr. BeutlkT'.
A ^^!w t!tn itp-.' Mj. 2£.iwHHi. ^iAjomm xsMt Im- EesitT' eaUmi mt Hk 4ifcie «f
•fAOM; i*BJf SruEL *>£.;tii:tait 5tr laaft* ;i]zr>'.air "«f tngt^sf a psjl «ff ite Kj^vs^i^
j£ <Akikitli^icuti ir 'i^ •MTBirr nioci i^ naei^fldiuus uncsre nsmcnmi Spout sBiii
TiKae iiHO. 'jLl^fd I9«UL Mr. E&unwfnr nSaVsi;: iaapt l&as ii^ ir^ ^lins
ai» MnaffilUE £tr i^be pu;>uKr -itf m^jn; atftoKialMkpDUfaas $» Ijkfiisa dond^ri s»
aawrtt.n: ^ iK- v-^oui ^. i'.* Mtaviui: 'ft^ la^ acSaHiaisrfipDueaas ?4r aH ^urKaa
arte 94PI- T^iepf \'.< Vvr jm^ut -ir 4tf £3)7 jartSfnfier yamm 4ir fniL F7%im tte
^qmsSLiXtt 1Sk7 £rfr ii«b.»fd Mr. ^.imisfct ter aMsmcil ^ JiKf«r ifeat £be7 ai«R
Sr!Htt€D7' 't^' Mr. 2i*!L::u»7. i:iid ffji.'Uid -OciLt ^ v-tfifli ^ im^uaHftde fcr \Ctm t^^-^
MisyniL. Itc i:i«^ jvt.vjab "tiutz t^ tr.wmiL Mr. Marrto. bad ^^ixut aaaj ^^ ijut
y^ffx M!aL iL ^.^£tT^ ^€ Iter ^Ob^tKi. Mil B^^nzaBtt mxatfL tewppffcc as iteac juui
toiffrai aiKu tltt:! if Mr. Msrtto ;»ftiiraKid lififMa ttte wiwk at Maayulit aas 4«aa
te 'dB^aaa^ffr. • 'vr^c'ii^d ^ri' it* MnaciiaL
Mr. i^fmi»^ fiLTLM^'Tte^ te itfuj ^riwt ajC'Ata Mc RBnOfy a ymwr at Miv^miK,
ifeads^ Hhrt te- -P-^.itji jirtiwAcT' iKn I* aWt w» ^ ite McagioK. fw ite T^^ihv.oi tLli'.«pe
itttBC flBi n^earrihi Mm ^Bca^ify^i s» a fumanlir a^eat aaoiifA M. <;|. Mazifti.
2002 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
of Slorrn Mojada, Mexico, whom he advised Mr. Bentley to see and make ir-
rnn^romonts for him to go to Muzquiz to take the acknowledgments to the
Indian deeds. He (Mr. Bonnott) read parts of his letter to Mr. Bentley to
Johnstin and Beaty. I suggest that copies of Mr. Bonnett's correspondence
with Mr. Bentley should be nsked for, as well as the correspondence of Mr.
Bentley to Mr. Bonnett or his office. I do not want to appear unduly active
In this matter, but will state that, for my own protection na well as the protec-
tion of Mr. Dickson, I will make affidavits to confirm what I have above said.
The situation at Muzquiz Is unchnnped from what has heretofore been reported,
excepting that I am Informed that the other parties at Muzquiz (for the pur-
pose of buying land) have for the time being secured the good will and assistance
of the Mexican officials, thus turning Bentley down by Installing Into practice
the methods originated and started by Mr. Bentley.
J^ist how these arrangements are made or what Is done to bring them about
is a question that Mr. Bentley and the other Oklahoma citizens, as well as the
Mexican officials, should be required to answer. It is evident that no good will
come to the Indians as the result of such arrangements. Now, that it seiims
assured that the restrictions are to l)e removed from these Indians land In the
UnlttKl States, It setMus important to me that our (Jovernmcnt should explicitly
relieve itself of any further responsibility as to any of these Indians and see to
It that Mexico now understands that If slie receives these Indians now she is
not to expect nor ask the United States to take them back or care for them Id
the event that she (Mexico) later finds them undesirable.
I have the honor to be, yours, very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackeby,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Eaqle Pass, Tex., June 18, 1906.
Major Larrabee,
Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C:
Collector of Customs Dowe is In Washington and I have wired him to see you
while there.
Thackeby, Superintendent.
Department of State,
Washington, June 20, 1906.
The Secretary of the Interior,
Sir: Referring to your letter of the 5th instant and to the Department's
reply thereto dated the 8th instant, in relation to the investigation by Messrs.
Outcelt and Thackery, in Mexico, of the conduct of Martin J. Bentley, I have
the honor to Inform you that the Department is in receii>t of the following
telegram, dated the 15th instant, from the American ambassador to Mexico:
" Referring KIckapoo Indian matter. Minister Mariscal Informs me governor
Coahuila has instructed Muzquiz authorities to furnish Outcelt and Thackery all
necessary facilities to further investigation."
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
EuHU Root.
[Telegram.]
Eagle Pass, Tex., June 21, 1906.
COMMISSIONEB INDIAN AFFAIRS,
Washington, /). C:
Will leave here for Muzquiz, Coahuila, Mexico, next Saturday evening at
4 oVIock. Please wire me of final actitm on Indian bill, as many of tlie Indians
wish to return to Shawnee hnmediately if bill does not pass, and they want me
to arrange for their transifortation. It will bo a great mistake If these Indians
are i)ermltted to sell their lands to anybody under the pending Indian bill.
Thackery, Superintendent.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2003
Dbfartmbnt of the Intbriob,
Unitbd Statbs Indian Service,
Eagle Pom, Tex,, June2S, 1906,
Maj C. F. Labrabeb,
Indian Office, Washington, D. 0.
My Dear Sir: News reached here yesterday that President Roosevelt had signed
the Indian bill, with the amendment removing the restrictions from the nonresident
Kickapoo and other Indian lands.
Mr. jSentley's success in getting this legislation gives him a much increased influ-
ence over the Indians interested in the matter. Assistant United States Attorney
Outcelt is investigating, as well as with the citizens of Mexico, who are most familiar
with his dealings with these Indians. Thus it will be difficult and probably impossible
to get testimony that would justify legal actions in behalf of the Indians direct. I
mean that, as an instance, it would not seem advisable to start any action for the
recovery of an allotment for an Indian unless the Indian himself be enough interested
in the case to start and assM in the action. While the Indians directly interested
in the *' seven allotment" legislation of last year freely admit that they received but
very little for their land and did not know tnat they were selling the same, yet they
do not want to be known ki an action looking to the recovery of their land. It is
evident that they have been led to believe that whatever the United States does in
the matter would look to their forcible return (ii necessary) to the United States to be
followed by the stealing (as they state) of theur children to be placed in school. In
several instances and upon their urgent request I have started suits in the proper court
in their behalf for the recovery of money from Mr. Bentley. In each of such cases
they have later appeared at court and asked that the suits be dismissed. No doubt
that Mr. Bentley nad persuaded them to dismiss the cases, though they had faithfully
promised that u I would start the actions they would not have the cases dismissed
unless Mr. Bentley made full settlement with them, which they afterwards state he
did not do.
Up to date I have not used half of the $500 authorized in my assisting Mr. Outcelt
in this investigation. I do not know what plans, if any, the Commissioner may have
as to further steps relative to the removal of United States Indians into Mexico, but
I do know that the schemes for this purpose are well and deeply laid, and that if any
steps are taken it should be as early as will be consistent. The connection (appa-
rently immistakable) of certain Mexican officials with this deal should receive notice.
If it IS intended to eo into this matter of moving Indians to Mexico further I would
sij^gest that my authority to assist Mr. Outcelt be so modified as to permit me to so
over this matter with you personally. I have plenty of work to do at Shawnee and do
not wish to go to Washington unless I can be of assistance in this matter.
Very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special ZHsbvrsing Agent,
Consulate-General,
Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, June £7, 1906.
Hon. Robert Bacon,
Asnitant Secretary of State.
Dear Sir: I am in receipt of your No. 56, in regard to a telegram received at this
office, concerning the acknowledgment for Bentley in Kickapoo transfer matters, and
in reply will give my part in the case as you request me to do in your letter.
Some time the latter part of July, 1905, my son received a telegram from Musquiz,
siffned ** Clark, ' ' saying, Bentley is arrested ; send your father out . ' ' I wired Bentley
audnff what was the matter, to wnich I received no reply. I asked Mr. Martin whether
I oould go. He said yee. I went, and arriving at Musquiz at once went to see Mr.
Bentley and inquired of him why he was detained, and he said he did not know; so
I went to see the presidente and inauired why and on what charee Bentley was de-
tained. He said tnat there were no cnai^es against him. I then told him that if there
were no charges against him he should be released. He replied that he had tele-
eraphed to the city the day before and expected an answer that evenine ordering
nis release. With that I returned and told Bentley what the presidente had told me.
That same evening the presidente called me and Bentley in his office and told
Bentley that he was discluurged, but wished that he would call around in the morn-
ing in case ttiere were new oraers from the city. Next momine Bentley reported and
was told that there was nothing new and he could go wherever he wished.
The order for Bentley's release came from Mexico City, bo I inferred from the presi-
deodtek I tiinied to my post of duty the day after my arrival at Muzouiz.
Some weeks later I received a letter from the Americcui ambassador, Hon. E. H.
Oongw, of Mezioo C^, inclooing a copy of a letter from Mr. Dickson, duurgjln^ ma
2004 AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
with uBidff my official poeition to further my private ends and thwarting the ends of
justice. Now, then, in the first place I did not know Mr. Dickson was an employee
of the Qovcmment; he certainly had ample time to inform me of his business, and
ask my assistance, which, upon showing me his authority, I certainly would have
done; but instead of introducing himself to me and asking my cooperation he waits
until I am away and then files complaints which have no foundation whatever, and
he can not sublstantiate them. I now repeat that if Mr. Dickson was employed by
the Department to have Bentley arrested and was on the ground when I was there,
he should have come to me and told me so, and asked m)r assistance, which I surely
would have given him, and helped him in his undertaking; but instead of that he
waits until I am away and then shoots his charges at me.
Now, the fact is I nad no hand in having Bentley released, as the presidente had
telegraphed to Mexico City advising the release of Bentley. I never learned who
had Bentley arrested, nor on what charge he was held; when I first spoke to the presi-
dente he informed me that he had advised Bentley^s release before I came and awaited
a replv from Mexico ordering his release?. Bentley remained in Muzouiz several days
after his release and did not leave for *' parts unknown/' as Mr. Dickson insinuated.
I can say no more, as you do not make any accusations; only say you have reliable
information. I am at a loss to guess what other compkints have been preferred
against me.
I am acquainted with Mr. Thackery, but I never knew he was a Government official.
You may rest assured that I will render him all the assistance I can whenever he calls
on me in his official capacity.
About three months ago Bentley asked me if I could go out to Muzquiz and take
some acknowledgments whenever he got the papers ready. I told him yes, if my
boss would let me. About a month ago he wrote me that he would likely need my
services soon, whereupon I wrote him that as Mr. Martin, the consul, was goin^ off on
a sick leave I could not go, and that he might induce the agent at Sierra Mojada to
take them, but I did not write th(? agent anything about it. I do not know whether
Bentley wrote him or not. When I received yoiu" telegram I at once notified the agent
not to take acknowledgments for Bentley and I have his receipt for same. A few
days ago Bentley came to this office with an Indian and wanted some docimient certi-
fied. I r(>f used to certify or acknowledge anything for or to him, since which time I
have not seen him.
There were some strangers here a few days ago wanting to know whether I would
acknowledg;e some deeds for them and some Indians. I refused, telling them to go
across the river and have it done there. I have not seen them since, nor do I know
where they went to.
If there is anything else you wish to know regarding this affair, I will be glad to
answer any questions you may propound. If you wish anything that I say here certi-
fied to, I think I can prove ail of my assertions by responsible parties.
1 am, your most obedient servant,
John A. Bonnet,
Vice-Ckmiul in Charge.
rrdegrasL]
Unitxd States Indian Aoenct,
Shawnee, Okla,, July SI, 1906.
LiwiB C. Grimes,
Harrahf Oklahoma:
1 am informed that plans are being perfected to take more Rickapoo Indians to
Mexico. I have been appointed leg^ guardian of the adult Kickapoo Indians ia
Oklahoma by the proper court and as such guardian give warning to all parties that
these Indians be not removed.
Frank A. Thackert,
Acting United SuUee Indian AgenL
Department of the Interior,
United States Indian Service,
United States Indian Agenot,
Shaumee, Okla., Augutt 1, 1906.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
WaekingUm, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to advise you that on the 28d day of July, 1906, the probata
Judge of this (Pottawatomie) county appointed me legal guardian of 44 adult mem-
ham oi the Mesdcan Kickapoo Indians A this agency who are now lesiding hiie and
JiVTAlB OP THE SCEHCAir KICKAPOO ISDIA7&. 8005
4o act v«s v: rs « 3f«Ti». ArTlJ-a-'acrif «» =i:«r r-^titis* is Otlsiirca Owrxy
Kisrai. Tj»r iccrtr.tziVr.v -r^rr n:*.:* -^rc nj -.-m ti^-li-aui'-t ir..^ JiATifjj t.^^
KJS^ lai K<:-jr^ ^-r k«*L*ni-''* :c ^i- Vi— vsc rTA--^* ir"'»rT:r'T 3-,r ^i^.* <*?":•. -/ AZ
frffV ^rac Tie • -^r.^*^ / \c-ri: il. **v.r:ii« k.i -lii* J^^^'-T "'r"' *«^ --ri»T- — -A-rf^f
M»i ?*f*!ft.:.^::T ky.^*^%L*ii v. zla v. ;r r-^r: -Ji^cl -T-^ "-^^^ —^7 ^- =^- i^irr v,
t« *=aKi»c '.e V. Kri--. :*:•» k.: fc •j-il*. -iz.*-! liry -r . Ji i.^ l*r: ■ pi.^iea':;. -ir: rifci"
Ai>ff laAJi" — r V. k --::zi*»*r :^ "J^rir -r.»-z.:*J. * ki.i \--vr cr.c.Tz.-*-: va:. -^rrv ▼**%
ic ib^is* "-:a.* "^"f^ 'i-*'.-V2' ""Tii.'j c KLi "-it.:-.r :.".v. c.^'ji-^^Tj c -^r ii.:- -Juks
isi^ ▼*?=: jjpi.rki* 'A '^r jikz^jxir. Tky- k^i ^TT* ■: -jje -wirut 11 r^ 'mIas "LL^rrj T-tr*
lias -.i»»-^rr.if^ , -iir- ▼ •-- i i^-'-l^r* 'iz.-^iz. >- ...cLi^r:':^- > ,L-*. Vz-::r-t *--k;>i* A:;.--r-
■«7 X.'il-iCL'; TV *^:i: i^Tt •. fcrrk::;?* "^-r =ii:->^ *:ii if-.-^ :-.»ui.*^l:uz ■■ti '^
eovriT -::^.trr»cxic "^ -re i j:-*-.r-* ir: aT* -JisS: ru-.Tr* i^* ^■JI ker-.-r.*:! .% i;£i i-=p.±vi<:
■K a. Vr^T}- -jk*^ II >'- jr-1 3-.r- If -^-r p-A." n-^^ea -rr^ v .»::r k jzr. vl. I ▼ :r;_ f -•^ ;,-.raA**i
UjrxL ^'Jilz i.jir^ k -^r.rT •--. Mt -'v *JL-.n kz.d J" . irr >ti-,^:. -:.' i.m.-r^ k.". './-'.jirj*.
OlCUiL. KL'i *-!»*■ !A.T.»»r k.* 7-^. ;*^^ OJC-k- ^Tprr*^*:!;? T'.rir i* _:.?r-V-Ar^',C '.t "ul^-rSr
tfiia* ::. le'A.' .i 'Ji* Ii.i-A^-- I fcrir«-r-c T-.r. -.:i:i: ■;ii.t fr:^^ tV- --kr*c: ir.C-rlv u &
■bSmV '.t zr r-^r.j.c v. 'Ijk i-r-lp-lr^j k^i :;zzj:e»:L'; IiIati* "ril. ■."-irnr-j^t •w.r..l i-.#-.c
lAT^ "••r^ .--i -.c V. Mrij'-T. :^i^ li-.r»T zr 11-—^ :: kll lit. i* ki.i '^r 111 i- •-kc-rc
fem. -ujr^ l.r i =«*r* zr.zjiiL'fr. ^la ri^^^^LHi A ii-^-**- i: :• j:*u1i-tC.v k.-j.-,:.-.r«t v,
fl??!'.^.- iz. ?-.»:ra.'rkV.ci_-^ ■-■.1-^1:7 ▼i.-.i. kzni;:^: I iiv- -Ji.- - ir.'ZL 1-.7 j»r:r»».iA_ rir.i«,
TSwtft ^z,--:ar;* ir*^ p.».r ki.i lav* zi: n^aji:* .: rriii^- .r---i: zi* k". i*i:is 'u-Hrr. 71 -r-*'
<»» Si' '.zziit V. ?rfr? •«:_*: iiA-r.rr v. 7:*^ .ic*-* i-rd.rr 1--.*: \£ k* r TkA ij-.n k-wkr^ .c '»cjt
fv' fcrjitr.y.z. 'zjx* t.i:- 117 r--..T:: fr:ci M^ijr. -ri^irc I Jiii •.•r*r. *«.* v. k«--i?- =. ic
irr*fCia*r.j.c kj.i Uri I Tk.>i • r-^'-r 'Ji.* n*"'^ -.iri.r*^ fc-.rL::^^ .\ -rj-^i iATr '-•***&
«aK '.i •-:****: i: :• ..-■:"'-.-.• 7":: v>- -rk* r^it.-.^ v. v.- l.-r**:: k::ii.'.:i-. _^ -?-.-. r'
ai% ; it-ir^ k^.-v*..-.^ .- ■ i ;. ;• .-. : -. . - v.r:Ci '-.•rr» • 5 k." 7 '.a r ii V. .' 7 k.- • r. :r.* k;. ;'. . --k: j.c
tti"u* iia.c:=Mr "JL^r V --. .: *j-- I1.V...V v_=: *i:.-.r v-i*. .IT .. : .r::.-;tr-.7 ''.*r 'J. i *'- r -
*a*^. 7!i-:r* "w^* :1 'a.-^ ..-. v. .• -.-. .-.*./ k: k ::.»** ■.: i: :•'. ^^'.:i. 1 H'ii-JK i.-^^viii
j5_t''3- A. -rrt:xrzT
7 > 77X1 S7i7Xft !>"itty Atxatt.
Tfer^."Kir:**T: f rx ',? I - : -. '•' AjTiTi* ^:^> .%;-: :-. £> C
»!»r*;i* V. '::.- r-^-.-'-rr^-' ■: *r--r ;•*•-.-■• ■. -.rr.iir Hr i^.x:*:i^ri\^. :•: Zzji:^ZA wii- :. k" ^^
whk 'wn^z.'^ I »^-. L-t '.'.-■ -r •.;. =— - ;*.v^*rf ■*. ^i* I'-.r-.ijb-rr* I i-k*. r %rrzS'.\ it.-^i
vut :2*!Cri'*j-.!» -j-,i.*-k*.-.^i .- y . .r I-r-^r k.-.».v* rrr-rT=-: v k^i "w-.i; i"^.v.:- v, -/■".-
fCT -y-ri *:£.* •a^r.'T I ▼-. .li *•* p"lra*»ei v. i.k--r :.r'. -* .".•■". '- — * ;..■.■»*•-•■»? m
t&'l£*^ -irL-^T; -.c *.-.f: :.---- ;:l: '?.-.» i-.-r *uir *r:' -T. >li'jLi>... i.. -„v.r^-.* fr. =. ▼i.:ii
Im v*trn v. .V. _'.i v.rr^-* :.:'--■* kz*i z:^~^'.£k'y.z,. }»*^ i*»r-^ Lat* i^t^^ "AJcfn
1 Tr ""'r n **-- :c Lie »*r e- 31*^ --lier '.i* k'.-. .■: «-:=.-e 11. IX**. kZji "Jl*t Ur: n^ti*
I or, 3« --:ii-rr»r.ij:ii :i-k.: *.-* rr-'-.r-.-jur \i hz.j 'A 'Jir^e :z^-r z^Zr!zrji •r-r^i :r. scj
war »5«s icT »r.r:u'.:i tIjc: -- g- : Ik^-rr i-t -^^c 17 'Ji* I'*7tt7-=.-¥Ci .1* pa:^^
Eli tft-y i:r r*--r-::r4r W. :rjc: & c:cLzI«^r' k.-.i»vrw:n ;i-k7 *.•*: LiC- Mr. '•l-«f.?i»
2006 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
tTaneactions of Martin J. Bentley in connection with his purported purchase of these
seven allotmenUM, has not yet returned from Mexico, and I do not know what action,
if any, he will recommend in the case when he has .completed the investigation,
but now that new deeds have been taken under the act of June 21, 1906, I see no
reason for longer withholding the delivery of the trust patents to these seven allot-
ments. I have declined to deliver them until authorized to do so.
Very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackbry,
Superintendent and Special Distmrsing Agent.
Department of the Interior,
♦ Office of Indian AFFAiRa,
Washington^ August 16, 1906,
The Superintendent of the Shawnee School,
Shawnee, Okla.
Sir: This is to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of August 3, 1906, asking
for further instnictionH as to the delivery of trust patents to purchasers of Mexican
KickapKK) allotmentw, and specifically referring to the seven who were covered by
the act of March 3, 1905 (33 Stat. L., 1043).
You say that the parties who claim to have purchased these lands under that act
have taken new deeds of date later than the act ot June 21 , 1906 (Public — 252), wherein
restrictions as to sale and incumbrance of all adult Kickapoos are removed where such
adults have allotments in the Indian Territory and Oklahoma. You also say that
the special attorney of the Department of Justice has not returned from Mexico,
where he went to investigate the alleged frauds committed in procuring deeds from
the seven allottees referred to, but because of the new deeds you see no reason for
longer withholding the delivery of the trust patents, but you have declined to do so
until you nu'cive instructions.
In foHponsp, so far as the Office is aware, there is no objection to the delivery of
these patents, unless there might possibly be something disclosed by the investiga-
tion conducted by the Department of Justice that would be considered good cause
for not surrendering the patents. At any rate, no harm can come by delaying action
until that report is at hand, and you are therefore instriK tod tliat the trust patents
as to these 8c»ven allotments should not be surrendered until you receive further
advices fn)m the (XHce.
Very respectfully, F. E. Leupp,
Commisnoner,
United States Indian Agency,
Shawnee, Okla., Septevibcr 7, 1906.
Hon. F. E. Leitpp,
The Conunisnoner of Indian Afaira, Washington, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith for vour information a copy of the
Daily Okhihoman, published at Oklahoma City, Okla., September 5, 1900, in which
there is a front-page article headed "Kickapoo Indians robbed by unscrupulous off:-
cials,*' in which M. J. Hentley is largely quoted.
Some of his statements with reference to conditions in Mexico are somewhat con-
flicting with his avowed mmd intentions toward the Kiekapoo Indians in his efforts
to remove them from the United Stati s to Mexico.
While I was with Mr. George A. Outcelt, the assistant United States attoniey
referred U) in his article, but a very small part of the time during his recent investi-
gation at Muzquiz (I have remained at Eagle PaRs. Tex., mont of the time), I am of
the opinion that his accusations with reference to Mr. Outcelt are without tnith. It
wa8 expected, if Mr. Outcelt was able to effectively block the scheme of Mr. Hentley
to rob these Indians, that Mr. Hentley would resort to every possible effort to belittJe
the work and even the character of Mr. Outcelt. The fact that Mr. Hentley is now
making such statements as are quoted from him in this paper seems to indicate that
Mr. Oiitrrlt'H work in Mexico has had some effect.
Mr. Hentley claims that the intentions of the bill removing all restrictions from
the Kicka^)f)<) Indians was simply an arrangement whereby he was to negotiate the
sale of their lands in Oklahoma and use the proceeds to buy other lands in Mexico;
but there is no provision in the wording of the bill itwlf to bear Mr. Hentleyout in his
statement, and when the bill l>ecame a law, or even before the President's signature
thereto, nmny of the white people of this locality were laying desigOB lor the purchaee
AFPAIB8 OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2007
of this land from the Indians, assuming that they had an equal right with Mr. Beat-
ley or any other person in the negotiations with the Indians for this land. That
improper means were resorted to by these men is probably true, but I am of the opinion
that, in the end, when the matter has been thoroughly sifted, it will be found that
Mr. Outcelt had no improper connection with any of these purchasers of the Kick-
apoo lands.
Very respectfully, ,
Superintendent and Special Diabursing Agent,
[From the Dally Okl ihomm, Wednesd ly, September 5, 1906.]
Kickapoo Indians robbed by unscrupulous officials— M. J. Bentley^ of Tecumsehj tells
of the most disgraceful page of America's history in its dealings mith Indians — Amer-
icans will have to leave Mexico.
M. J. Bentley, of Tecumseh, Okla., who has the distinction of serving the United
States Government longer than any other man as Indian agent, who colonized a
tribe of Kickapoo Indians in Coahuila, Mexico, and who waa recently imprisoned in
Mexico, and effected his escape by bribing the Diaz authorities, was a guest at Hotel
Stewart in this city last evening.
Mr. Bentley served under four Secretaries of the Interior Department, and during
the terms of three Presidents, as Indian agent for the Kickapoo tribe. He has a clear
record for the entire sixteen years of service, and throughout that time to this (jy has
retained the confidence and esteem of the Indians who nave been under his guardian-
ship.
*'It is only a question of time until all Americans will have to leave old Mexico,'*
was the earnest declaration of Mr. Bentley when interviewed by an Oklahonian repre-
sentative Last night. "Their removal will not be effected by force, but by gradually
increasing intolerance and t>Tann>r. Mexico has 15,000.000 people, of which 1 1 ,000,000
are Indians, and upon a conservative estimate 4,000,000 of these wear sandals. These
latter have never owned and have not the ambition to ever own a pair of shoes. Presi-
dent Diaz and his administration of the Mexican Government are the objects of much
misapplied commendation, and this when one-fourth of the people of the Republic
never possessed shoes.
"Get into trouble with one of the Mexican dons, and remark that you are an Ameri-
can citizen and entitled to the protection of the law. He will significantly pat the
six-shooter in his belt and declare bombastically, ' I am the law! '
*'An American consul was once imprisoned because he had the temerity to appear
before a Mexican judge in behalf of an American under arrest and inquire when the
latter would be granted a trial. The judge declared the question was impertinent
and impudent. I carntptly warn citizens of the United States not to remove to Mexico.
They will be enticed to the Republic by flattering representations and then scandsd-
ously robbed.
*'The price of anything you buy in Mexico, whether to eat or wear, is twice as
much as in the United States. The wages paid in Mexico are less than half what
would be paid for the same service in the United States. The country should have
no attraction for the American laboring man.
"The American does not buy land m Mexico, but purchases what is known as a
water concession. For instance, I had a six-dayn' water concession. At night the
Mexicans cut ditches and let water from my land overflow their own property, and
then bring suits for damages. They pile up judgment upon judgment against my
property, and finally rob me of everytning 1 have. They subjected me to this kind
of treatment, and hundreds of others have been similarly treated. It is outrageous,
but there is no recourse, and justice is unknown in Mexico. Americans who go down
there are robbed of everything they have."
Mr. Bentley was primarily for the enactment of a law by Congress removing restric-
tions as to the sale and incumbrance from the allotments of adult Kickapoo, Caddo.
Wichita, Shawnee, and Delaware Indians now or hereafter nonresidents of the Unitea
States and who had heretofore been allotted land in Indian Territory and Oklahoma.
This law would have benefited about 2,100 Indians and tliey would have removed to
Mexico and sold their lands here, opening these hinds to white settlement and remov-
ing the burden of their guardianship from the United States Government.
Discussing this matter, Mr. Bentley said:
"No sooner had Congress enacted this law, and even before it had been signed, the
Interior Department commenced its inaclunations to defeat the object, and it is due
to the unwarranted machinations of that Department that my Mexican colonization
plan for these Indians was defeated and the Kirkapoos down there 1. fl (o c ithcr starve
to death or become a new charge upon the hands of the Government. The Indians
2008 AFFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
were colonized in the beautiful Sabine Valley on a tract of land embracing 238,000
acres. The Senate report of this land reads: * It is now grazing 10,000 head of white-
faced cattle^ is an enormous basin and, beyond doubt, the choicest ^zin^ land hi
the Republic, being practically surrounded and fenced in by mountams rismg to an
elevation of 9,000 feet.'
*'The Interior Department had its agents constantly at work to nullify the work of
Congress, and it has nullified the colonizatutn plan and ruined the Indians, who,
depending on the good faith of the United States Government, many of them are
now at the point of starvation and will perish from want unless the Grovemment goes
to their rescue.
"Knowing that the Indian had absolute confidence in me, the Department sent a
United States attorney down there and by foul and underhand methods got me away
from the Indians by causing the Mexican authorities to arrest me and confine me in
prison.
"The Department's agent, in collusion with some other Americans who can not
otherwise be denominated except as brigands, caused the arrest of the Indians then
and endeavored to induce them, by intimidation, to sign deeds to their lands in Okla-
homa and sell them at ridiculously low prices. But the Indians would not sign.
Their signatures were then forged before a Mexican judge and sent up here for filing,
and yet the Indians did not get one cent for the 180-acre tracts in the Canadian Valley,
wortn at least |75 an acre, which were thus stolen from them.
"Their only recourse is to demand reimbursement from the United States Govern-
ment for the lands fraudulently bilked from them by Department employees. This
matter I have taken up with some men of powerful mfluence, detailing tne outrages
which have been undergone by these Indians."
Mr. Bentley then exhibited a copy of a letter which he had addressed to Senator
La Follette, of Wisconsin, which reaas in part as follows:
"The last act in the Kickapoo drama will, in my opinion, be the saddest and most
disgraceful page in America's history of its d( alings with the Indians.
'The United States, not content with having taken practically all these Indians
had in the States, practically without compensation, followed them into a foreign
country, where, at tne instigation of ofTicors, the leading men of the tribe were thrown
in prison and treated as the vilest criminals, fed on bread and water, compelled to
labor on the streets under a tropical sun. The hungry horde of land sharks ana looters,
with whom a United States attorney was operating in conjunction, went among the
Indians, diHtributing strong drink, and the wives and daughters of those in prison
were comp(»lled to drink, and when in a condition of intoxication were taken to rooms
in the same apartment where this attorney lodged and were there outraged. The
parish priest at Muzquiz, the Kev. Father D. P. Andres, will corroborate this
statement."
Department of thb Interior,
United States Indian Servics,
UNrrED States Indian Agenct,
Shawnee, Okla., September 18, 1906.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Washington, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith for the files of your Office, "letters
of guardianship," showing that I am the duly appointed lej^il cruardian of the follow-
ing-named incompetent Mexican Kiekanoo Indians: Wah-nan-ke-tha, Mut-twa-ah-
quah, Ah-ko-the, Wah-ne-ma-quah, Man-nah-quah, Pe-nee-she, Men-ah-pe, Wah-
pali-pen-neah, Ke-kee-quah, Wah-sha-ko-shuck, Ah-nah-tho-huck, Wah-no-nah-ka-
ka, Kish-ke-ton-o-quah, Ouen-nep-pe-that, Wah-qua-tha-no-ouah, We-sko-peth-o-
que, Peah-twyh-tuek, Mah-nhe-nah, Mush-sho-qua-to-ciuah, Wah-tah-tah, Me-na-
neesh, Shak-kah-tah, Meek-ke-kah. Ah-no-tha-tho, Sno-e-nah-ouah, Mat-ko-the-
quah, She-pah-tho-ciuot, Wah-pe-imn, Pen-e-that-ah-miah, Ki-yan-snuah, Mesh-ah-
quot, Pem-me-pah-none-nah. Nah-she-pe-eth, Pya-tna, Ne-pah-han, Kah-ke-ne*
peah, Pah-ke-<ne-none. Kan-ka-nah-rhe-kah, \la-nah-the-quah-qua-ah, Kish-ke-
ton, Ko-ke-kah-hurk, Much-e-nen-e, and Pe-ke-to-no-quah.
Very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackery,
SuperinUndent and Special Disburnng AgenL
AFFAIBS OF THE MEZIOAK KICKAFOO INDIANS. 2009
Department of the Interior,
United States Indian Servicb,
Washington^ October f , 2906.
SXTPERINTENDBNT ShAWNBE InDIAN ScHOOL,
ShawneCf Ohla.
Snt: The office is in receipt of your letter September 13 last, asking to be advised
as to what action to take in the matter of collecting lease money derived from
approved leasee on Mexican Kickapoo allotments, title to which having been trans-
ferred under the act of June 21, 1906. You ask if it would be proper for your office,
after collecting all rents up to the time for transfer, to deliver the office part of the
lease to Uie purchaser, making proper record thereof, and collect no further rents,
and say that some of the purchasers have requested copies of the leases for lands
purchased under the above act and in some cases the purchaser is also the lessee
and protests when called on to pay lease money.
In all such cases your office should collect the rents up to the time the title in these
allotments has been transferred. The rents due after that time belong to the grantee
and should be collected by him and not by your office. The leases covering these
lands are a part of your office files and should therefore be retained. There is no
objection, however, to your office furnishing purchasers of these lands, on request,
with copies of the existing leases,
very respectfully,
G. F. Larrabee,
Acting Commisnoner.
Department op the Interior,
United States Indian Service,
United States Indian Agency,
Shawnee f OJ^la.y December 10, 1906.
The CoMMissioKBB OF Indian Affairs.
Washington, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to respectfully refer to that part of the act of Congress approved
June 21, 1906, which refers to the Kickapoo Indians of this ag[ency, wherein it is stated:
** Provided, That any such Indian allottee who is a nonresident of the United States
may lease his iJlotment without restriction for a period not exceeding five vears: Pro^
vidid further. That the parent of the person next of kin having the care ana custody of
a minor allottee may lease the allotment of said minor as herem provided, except that
no such lease shall extend beyond the minority of said allottee."
I desire to be informed as to your interpretation of this act of Congress wherein a
minor Indian child is a resident of Mexico but has a legal guardian over his estate in the
county wherein his allotment is located.
I would also be pleased to have your advice as to what disposition I should make of
lease money due such nonresident minor Kickapoo Indians. Should it be paid to the
legal guardian in this county or to the parent or person next of kin having the care and
ci^tody of such minor?
There are several of the minor nonresident Kickapoos of this agency who were bom
subsequent to the allotment of land to the Kickapoos at this place, and therefore have
no allotment of their own, who are heirs to allotments or an interest therein at this
a^ncy. It is noted that this act of Congress states that the parent or person next of
km having the care and custody of a minor allottee may lease the allotment, etc.
Would you construe this act to cover the interest of a mmor nonresident Kickapoo
who is not an allottee?
Very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
Department op the Interior,
Washington, September 14, 1906,
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs.
Sir: I am in receipt of your letter of the 11th instant, in relation to the payment
of certain Mexican Kickapoo Indians for money alleged to be due and paid them
under the provisions of the Indian appropriation act of June 21, 1906 (34 Stat. L.,
362), and the instructions of August 9 last, from the Department. You ask for instruc-
tions as to the extent of the responsibility of your office in the premises and desire
to be informed "at what point liability will cease if it shall, at some date subsequent
to settlement, be proven that claims regular on the face, or correct so far as the office
can. directly determine, are fraudulent; that is, does the pro\ision 'all of said pay-
27813—8. Doc. 215, 00-1— vol 3 9
2010 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
ments to be made upon claim through the First National Bank or the Border National
Bank of Ea^le Pass, Tex.,' relieve the Government of responsibility if some of the
claims so paid turn out to be fraudulent?"
In reply, vou are informed that the Department letter of the 9th ultimo, authority
was granted you to allow claims of certain Mexican Kickapoos, amounting to
$20,801.27, "after proper administrative action by your office."
Administrative action by your office means that under section 464, Revised Stat-
utes, you are to examine the papers presented, and if found correct and properly
executed, they are to be allowea by you and passed to the Treasury DejMirtment
for settlement. Of course, if authority is granted by the Department for the pay-
ment of any claim, and on examination of tne papers in your office they show fraud
and are fraudulently executed, as in the case of the two mentioned in your letter,
they should not be allowed, notwithstanding the authority of the Department for
their payment, as such authority is based on the correctness of the claim and of the
papers or evidence submitted.
The language used in the act: **A11 of said payments to be made upon claims
through the Fir^t National Bank * * *," does not mean that all claims must he
made through the banks mentioned in the act, but that all payments are to be made
through these banks, and your office is not responsible for any payments made by
the Treasury, after due and proper care has been exercised in the examination ot
the vouchers and evidence presented with claims for settlement.
Very respectfully,
Thos. Ryan, Acting Secretary,
United States Indian Agency,
Shawnee, Ohla.j December 17, 1906,
Hon. John Embry,
United States Attorney, Guthrie, Ohla.
Dear Sir: I have your telegram of the 15th instant, which reads as follows: "Cause
everyone inducing Kickapoos to leave to be arrested under latter part section 2113,
Revised Statutes. Make separate arrest for each Indian.**
Prior to the receipt of this telegram, I had talked the matter of preventing these In-
dians from being taKen away by prospective purchasers of their allotments over with
United States Commissibner W. R. Asher, ana also with Probate Judge Maben. The
latter advised me that, if I would present an action in proper form asking for an injunc-
tion, he would CTant same. I immediately employed the law firm of Pendleton, Aber-
nathy & Howell to prepare the petition, and I inclose herewith copies of both the peti-
tion and the injunction order, wnich are self-explanatory.
Immediately upon receipt of your telegram, I went before United States Commis-
sioner W. R. Asher, at Tecumseh, Okla.. and made complaints against Martin J. Bent-
ley, L. C. Grimes, R. C. Conine, and Georee Kishketon. Warrants for the arrest of
these parties were issued without delay by Mr. Asher and were at once turned over to
Deputy United States Marshal J. P. Jones, who just advises me by phone that they have
been served in each case, excepting that of R. C. Conine.
In the case of Mr. Bentley, he is charged with alienating, etc., Ne pah hah, Mexican
Kickaixx) allottee No. 244,who was allotted the N.i of the SE.Jofsec.l2,T. ION.. R. 3 E.
On July 26, 1906, the probate court of Pottawatomie County, this Territory, aeclared
her incompetent and appointed me as the le^l guardian of her person and estate.
Subsequently (about one month ago) she left this county and Territory for Mexico and,
upon her arrival at Eagle Pass, Tex., is purported to have executed a deed in favor of
one Ida B. Bentley and W. W. Ives, conveving the above-described allotment to them
for a purported consideration of $2,000. This deed is dated November 20, 1906, and is
purported to have been acknowledged before A. W. Bonnet t, a notarj^ public of Maver-
ick County, Tex. I have been told by the Indians that Mr. Bentley purchased the
ticket for this woman and accompanied ner to Mexico just prior to the date of the i^ore-
said deed.
In the case of R. C. Conine, he is charged with alienating, etc., one Py-a-tho,
Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 232, who was also, on July 23, 1906, declared an
incompetent by the probate court of Pottawatomie County, this Territory, and I
wa»s likewise appointea as the legal guardian of her person and estate. Her allotment
is the W. i of the SE. \ of sec. 10, T. 10 N., R. 3 E., and is easily worth $3,000. I
think it can be established that she accompanied R. C. Conine from this vicinity
to Eagle Pass, Tex., where she is purported to have executed a deed in favor of said
R. C. Conine on November 24, 1906, for a consideration of $1,000. The records show
that this deed was acknowledged before T. J. Murray, of Maverick County, Tex,
The deed is also signed by An-nah-no-tha, purported to be the husband of said P}r-»-
iho. It IB reported to me that Mr. Conine had this woman and man lawfully mamed
AFFAnSR OF TBE MEXICAS KICKAPOO VfULkS^ 2011
wm^ in Eoeii^ Psim, T<?x.. hm ibaz v^nhia- th^ man nor dK- v^dbsd kn««r nor i
si^r^ w&a^ Vm fLkkiai^ pbr^ ^iizmi^ ds^ no^kmae^ o^fnamrmj. Thu h^bagA ham
ilir»Tf fj^^fi 3k T^sd.*issi. 01 Mftxkr>, joarf tiiiift^ masriaie*' k t>*4i«!?T«w so have l>ei»n jui^flfwi
wsiii^r ±1^ »o: oc Jsia*- 21, Vj/ffK, TU# ir^icxaaa Py-A-riuo abr> Iiai* am iEtftf»ac in nhe
ji2Sr;<im«%tif. -ol &«- -d^^Ttflrf^iti &iih*r. MjiL-Arj^jt-^-fAk- Mfrikaa KiH^erx> i^xuth So,
Va. TTir. wi» »£4.<ai -ii^ E, § <rf nfe*^ J?E, x '>* «^ W) T 10 X,, R. 3 E,
Igranr^t. jin«i ifajfr 'wii* aor mis ifknnKti; -ar'n't ^o^i^ti^ ^/j mi^ '.n fcfC«aabisr L ISC^,
ftS iriiBr:!! lirriiir riLfr !ii2fe*«r hid r^rieiT**! w:** ;ifear. o€ A. J. P^ridstf. '-/«' .Sliawike*t. Okla-l
kfiK n^ki^rti h. 4f-^ hr ^ •oci^^'fiiiTri mni^rvR m mid bzwi nr»& mid pT'^-«iw> aiwi liier
ISflKv Jtc»i as 4rjkn«v«iisr<i52iHi bie^je*' T. J. MranaT, <j€ MakTiPTini: C/JuaitT, T^x- Ii w^jiM.
ap^^ar niiAi: m: 'h^ !ukiae 'O^ tLki» fanner ''i^^ hj Mr. Ojcini^ h seat batrie Ik«»« hdv
ifcaa o<Sr:i6r, I iiia 'vc ?ii<^ 'Ofmii'^c h«vw*r«-«%r, wii± r*t*T»t>^ w> thfr rf.t.2^^.r.k,n. of Mr.
C/Jiiiii*r ni ^Jia* -wiii'^ifr s:::*;::.-^. iihaiS h^ m ^c^mai wv±l xnd ^poo %h^ ariT-k^ ^.i L. C
Grkii*-*. h will ?>«: ri%m«EL!>en?:ri dsAS tliis Mr, Vv^tiin*!: i§ %h^ mn^ nnar. wti*-; w^b* *ti»-
wiukr siAiOnsf his Tfrf^fT^ mT*8niaMr.t2i <si Kkkkpry> siatniiierf in M^xkri-. 'Hfr hiA fmc»
iiu*r irt 'oe iii^ '21. I:»e.
Mr, •'ir.mi=^ *n«i G*r;?7r fwi»Lk.-=^^-.Q if* riioin^ with hATisig ^i^^^TsaOfid, «^*' , M*i»-
ali-p^. '■rtii-, hijrf 3i-.€ js* T-rn Lrt'i "ill* '"r.'xnitT 5-,r M^rx&^>, la «lki» ^^a^e-. I ■ar-'.ril'i ^iLkS#»>
tfear* ^liifH^ K^-'kupr-r- ln'-:2»a» rall^ att aaj r««L'i.^^>^ T*fy y/c^n aitiefl' 4gkjisg^z ■vr. laA
iu^lrd -iriii-r i»'.<£ *n«i k:-^ .*r. ^r.cie rr.;yn,mg hir.rs»T zm T^baim^fie 'f'STrstir tfc**- zr»aii^r p^rt
''^ '^niiriAT n.>rii^ 'h.^r I S'la :rii»f.Ar.i: . *nri iE^^f*- m fo«it Irttdj*- dc^A b»2S tlias dL**- iiai^^RDr/O
■w^t r^'. "-kicA h«rr v^ M-«^Xi-o-. -q dwr narcsini^' tmhi -^ sfefr Mi»!r,r2n. Katoaitf aad T*tl*i
KLfcibri/- l-8^i,Tiin<r •fhA-«TjK:^ »5 *> '/'-^'.^ k *.. si. Tbfr waram lor nisfr aim^st ol Mr. Griaa***
In' T.r.nie^r.u-.^ ••^.f.h "ih:.* -rfj'i- ssaJ'.ru'rr, jj^^^ais^ ^ria^ m^ d, in jtj^if "ypiaflrim, am
,t* *rykn>Hi V. 7*--.'- -.-r-f^ •.-.'r -<!*'.'♦*- nhj^^**^ Ir.^-rrasrj* 4'.- ni'.« Tr^nn Vi zt; V.' M^-Jz/ry »cirf •»ill
r^iuili ••=- TA-'Hs**^"! •^'. '.^k'^- i'T tzT'hif^ i^'^t'';*! T*:*! maj fr2z;r«^*r eq tfck ma<n:^^ *c«i: v>
fc#»^i:klf *.Iv^^-' r-'lL^i--.^ -Till »r,«-.ti i>r jittrrr*^r» ip*-;?i ttfc^ •^.niniTiirlT, ^^pi^ticf^&tLt ^^pr.a
V^r r^p»^.': .1-7, F, A, Trftccrarr.
I>£?.%.a'nfE!^T 0» THE IjmaT'OSt-
TT-vrnD^ -rri.T»§ l5n>c-!.<» '»£2,tt<u.
r>rr£i> 57J.TE.* !*»-■':.»>► Aoes^-'tt.
.%»: I QAT- ir.- Tj-. :-j:r :.- r^irT V: 'JL% i^x ibkr. ^.h-^ri^ k i rT-.?irfifi*rra.hlfr MsurjmLt "A EEr^5<e^[
Cora&VsMti
IncB frH. acii lise SLi^trs are oonr rwientB (or at KMt they dbsm. V> >Be TciM&aD0Bi\ A
2012 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANB.
Mexico, and as such residents claim that they are out of the jurifldiction of this ofRce
and should be entitled to receive the full amount of money due them from these
various sales. Please advise me what action should be taken upon their requests. If
they are to be paid the full amount due them, myself or an employee of this office should
be authorized to meet them at Eagle Pass, Tex., for the purpose of clearing up all of the
payments due these Indians.
Very respectfully, Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special JHsburnng Agent.
[Ttltgnm.]
Oklahoma City, Okla., January SI, 1907,
ComfissiOKSR Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C:
Press dispatches report provision in Indian bill directing Attorney-General to inves-
tigate Rickapoo land Rales in Mexico. If that provision 'm finally aaopted it should be
nuide to cover all purported sales by Rickapoos under act of June 21 last. All sales to
Bentley are said to have been made in United States, while sales to other parties were
mostly made in Mexico.
Thackery, Superintendent,
Department of the Interior,
United States Indian Service,
U. S. Indian Agency,
Shawnee, Okla., February 1, 1907,
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Washington, D. C.
Sir: Confirming my telegram of last evening sent you from Oklahoma City, Okla.,
which read as follows:
"Press dispatches report provision in Indian bill directing Attomey-(ieneral to
investigate Kickapoo land Hales in Mexico. If this provision is finally adopted it
shouldl>e made to cover all purported BalcH ])y Kirkapoos under act of June 21 laHt.
All sales to Bentley arc said to have been ma<le in United States, while m\^*f^ to other
parties were mostly made in Mexico. (Si|pe<l) Tharkery, Superintendent."
I now have the honor to inchjse herewith pages 1 and 2 of^the Daily Oklahoman
of January 31, 1907, in which will be found press dispatch referred to, wherein the
following statement appi^ara:
"The Attcmey-Genenil of the United States is directed to investigate conveyances
purporting to have been executcKl in Mexico of lands in Oklahoma and found to have
Deen procured by fraud, to begin proceedings to have them net aside. He is also
instructed to prosecute parties to the frauds ifany were cominittcHl."
I anl very glad indeed to have this whole matter inv<>Htigated and hope that the
investigation, if made, will be placed in thoroughly reliable hands and that it
will be thorough. My reason for telegraphing you as alnivcj was that, in case the word-
ing of the provision alx)ve quoted is correctly given in thc» newnpaper (lisnatch** it
would seem not to recjuire an investigation of the purporte<l purchawtv by Mr. Martin
J. Bentley and his fnends, most of which were made in the United States at Eagle
Pass, Tex.
I also inclose a press dispatch clipping from a Kansas City daily paper of January 28,
1907, in which the follownii; sentence appc»ars in tin? last clause th(?nH>f:
**It is stated that these uisclosures involve certain oflicials of the Interior Depart-
ment."
I will be fflad to have my whole conne<tion with this matter th(m)UKhly gone into.
However, ifany hearings are to be g[iven in the nmtt<T before the Senate or House
Committee on Indian Affairs, in which 1 am oflicially involved, I deem it only a
matter of justice that 1 shoula be ordered before the coniniitte<».
Veo^ respectfully,
Frank A. Thackery,
Superint indent and iSpfctcd Disbursing Agent.
Department of thb Interior,
Okkk E OP Indian Affairs,
Washington, March J, 1906.
The Secretary of the Interior.
Sir: I hav(? the honor to acknowledge the receipt (»f Senate resolution of February
14, 1906, having been referred by you under daUt of February 16, 190(5, f(ir report.
The first paragraph of the resolution calls on you to inform the Senate (a) the reason.
liMDy, whyptAenU in fee simple have not been i«ued to seven Kickapoo (Oklahonm)
AFFAIB or THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO DTOLUnb SOIS
' tlMir 1111111 ■!■■ m iwwidcd br tiie act d OoDcrev -^,
rn Sol L^ ]M6>, awl \ why yon hxv^ viubkdd tern tiie
n^e PBBdisf Id Hrrifp li>e maaKj recahped from leMJag tbar
~ i 2 directt ibe tnawwahal d . c - aU
bnreaaf ct tikfr DqiUMEt aad agepg> ir.«Hi3jcr vixh alt remna o< ^
cffifiBB d ilhe DepartmcBt peraicmf v> i£e 'mrasiptkm m ibe roxtivI o< the Ki^-
sp-iMC to u» RcfrahJic d. JJerkn. sad /■ all cmwputtAepce bccvuD 3P0iir ^
busvKOf cf the I>epBnaBCDi asd meeDiB. logcdbcr vixh all npcna d i
o&xB d the DcpaitBcnt pertamog to tbdr ppcMBt OMidninn iDi
I^ las pBrnrip^ dirwie *^ uaaasinal {< f • aU npcra ci mx
I'T im^^wSriR cif'iL*- I>EpanaBeeii irv: ibe coskd-Qci asMl f
J. Beci^-pT i-^risr Jus cDiire ttxni erf SBrrm a§ tpecsil agccat id cbacge o< tbe ' 1
■ Oucresp:
kxer. 1 hBTifr ncc 2ztci-Dd«d Ukt ccaRspcodeDoe viudi vcmld
IsdeiwL ai iLfise nn* decamdi are directed to tdd aaMl afl tite i
rbbszTC ID ii»a ■ d necwd in ?Q«r office, I fu21 take the tibenr d priBK theai ao
faitiiflr rnrifwviaiiMi in tlai? rtpoit.
Isckocd irill be formd ccTOfW d alt aaonauakaticpg aent iroB. or icoeiTed by. tlui
Office, raa&zf to tbe laH uaree aDbjectt cB&bcaoEd br tiae reaohmcB. vbidu m^j
£1. vamt Uf be pTsen ai this vaat, Tbe hkik iaopifftaiii Icoos from tbe C
li^ Rpcro asMl t^aciBioGT moa is p:«i:i are xi£« izKaiidHL the hiaer hariikp I
i:r««rd«d ic- tije IkpanaikeBLX viiik !£»<• cccmxmiiicukxkf fraa this Office, d
I>wszzi>9 14. 1S46. viiL a recMCJZkeDdsikc ibtf thcnr be tzactasiiud to the Depan-
zxko:! ctf ixkAioe' ior apprcfnuc- acsks. Tbfr chiKpef made m the <xuiu<i {wpeci "^
gxa-re. azui are aspp^nud br moch evideciCX'. JLe the mua^r » ia the bia(£ d Ae
AxuE>^-<reD«Ea2 azfd acj disidiaicrec ircoald be c< advai£.tjiee lo thcee dbcvped vith
KfvecreoaUe coDdiacs. 1 do< zr:4 i^eiieTe Utis ii voold l«e -aieie at iLi^ tiibe )«:• aDdkaie
ihe zsi.V3^ d tike chacRS -or ds^ciaae the iioRaizkaDT ci*iiizr<d in foppcn thereci.
II ii-:qr«Tcr. yxi m d iLe i^'iiiiiiQ ihax these |tt{«a« shodd ite rrrhiriwi ocfMS
ci C^Sre rrj»:ra Vv iL^ De^ikrLzifeQi viH be prepireid and maasjia^d.
Ii £r:v:L!u 'i«e addeid thus ILunin J. Besiler wm iast af^.dzaiMi bj the SEcretaiy of
the l£i«n^ :in Axsil 21, liSH-. has^ "M the pu«asare d the SecKOrr." He mwm
^zaLt fifc^ihji^<ei{: &:im the aerrxe <<& Se|A€9Ziber 30. lSf(tl.
' Ttrr rts5pec5i:iiiT,
F. E. Lacit,
DzTAarazanr or thx Lnxnoa.
The CoMxaeonB or Ixi iax Ajt Aiza.
See Ii cr:cp'li*z.:* in-J: % .r^ rri:-:-- Trfaim^E cf the 3<3 insaEa- adhonxr ii bcivbj
Ci=.*«*»i "ui* fr.jtaiz.:'T- iri.T :if '.2:* ^rATirt* Iziiili S:b>:«- Okiabcaaa« to pnceai to
kid. ;» il:^ iz. the E^rj'^'tlic :tf M-cii:-:- a£ =at be imc^sut i:. ass Mr. Mccfe A.
«>^v.*r-~. zz. -^i^JT-'-g Aui iLVr^isku:^ i:r the iHinrssMiiLi xi J-Bai£«> ia rdaskm to Ae
ccczK^iii:'! :■: 31. J. B-rC-il-ry vi:i. -.l*- triuMfe « ca-acs Ki:^ap>j alV<.ii>fiJla. alto to
«c;jo'.7 loe Ii^difcz. iL-.^rr-re^^r &: n:n t^ exc-^i-i tl >> j^ta- dsT azii cioe Syaf.'rf^ inier-
preiier'^ ii:^ :■: rxc^eieii 9^ p^s- d&v: Hsl v: pfcj *2.e trjk-* rlzfa&a i^LerziCicieaHrT expccaei
:iir::r7*tf it iLHiSrif \z : -" "tjehk-f ii! tie izjer^-rrJi-as «ii^Sb«T*)d- azi-i tc* cxpeEvi icr theae
p::r;»:isef zi:': : "eii^eii |i>X* THiTiile fr:ca "•^.r.rtiziffeciCfcst IzkiiiZt I^e^aniaEEi- ISKW."
TTici. jsL *r.i.:^ -rill zi:.; iie *i :'-t<eiirii if theae eipiecsdiEnreB are as^thinied.
A-**£:nrr it kLsr. EnLi.ti6C &ai K:jietr:aid*ct i: iraike «c±. rnyn-etis cil-eaae =i'::wT
or iiJi*r:":r*5 licii z^i^-er t-: Izjiiaz. al^i-uiiEfes cr ti-eir hr^rj ir. Aexkr: . w be usej -Jusuc
ki-riskvlr frici f::zii« rse theca az»i nmr cm depus^ tc- the Bzys:zzez^zeEJX i '.SomI
Ii*- iii:J:»«r-r-^ :i yrzi Isoer are hereaith ressT^red.
2014 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Department op the Interior,
WaskingUmj March $8, 1906,
Hon. H. M. Teller,
United Statu SenaU.
Sir: Acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 26th instant, in relation to the
copy of a report made by Indian Inspector Cyrus Beede in 1898, on the operations of
Mr. M. J. Bentley while in charge of the Kickapoo Indians in Oklahoma, you are
informed, as heretofore stated, that the above-mentioned report has been mislaid, an<l
on the 10th instant the inspector was requested by telegram to furnish a copy of the
same.
As soon as received it will be transmitted to the committee.
Very respectfully,
Thos. Ryan,
Acting Secretary.
Department of the Interior,
Waahingtont June 5, 1906.
The Secretary of State.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy of a communication from the Act-
ing Commissioner of Indian Affairs, dated the 2d instant, reporting on a telegram from
Frank A. Thackery, superintendent of the Shawnee Indian Training School, in Okla-
homa, regarding the refusal of the Mexican authorities at Muzquiz, Moxiro, to re<"og-
nize Mr. G. A. Outcelt, of the Department of Justice, and himself, as representatives
of the United States in connection with the investigation of certain fraudulent trans-
fers of Kickapoo Indian allotments near Shawnee, Okla. Mr. Thackery was author-
ized on May 7, 1906, to proceed to Old Mexico to assist Mr. Outcelt in his investigation.
It appears from the superintendent's telegram that Martin J. Bentley, who is al-
leged to have figured" in these transactions in a criminal capacity, has taken steps to
prevent the investigation and is interfering in a reprehensible manner with the
proper course of the same, in view of which the Acting Commissioner recommend,
that proper steps be taken to communicate with the Mexican Government with a view
of having Bentley and his confederates prosecuted vigorously and without delay.
I concur in this rec-onunendation and have the honor to reouest that the necessary
steps be taken by your Department to^that end if, aftc^r consiaeration, you deem such
action proper and advisable.
The question of instructing the collector of customs at Eagle Pass to assist in this
investigation has been submitted to the Secretary of the Treasury by letter of this date.
Very respectfully,
E. A. Hitchcock,
Secretary.
Department of the Interior,
Washington, June 5, 1906.
The Attorney-General.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, for your information an<l such action as
you may deem proper under the circumstances, a copy of a communication, dated the
4th instant, from tne Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs, (juotin^ two telegrams
received from F'rank A. Tha<"kery, suoerintendent of the Shawnee Indian Training
School, in Oklahoma, dated, respectively, the 2(1 and 3d instant, n^garding the investi-
gation of Kickapoo Indian allotment matter in Mexico.
Very rc»spectfully, E. A. Hitchcock,
Secretary.
Departmi?nt op the Interior,
Washington, June 7/, 19()f).
The Chairman op the Committee on Indian Affairs,
United States Senate.
Sir: Referring to Department letter of June 7, 1906, in connection with amendment
No. 136 to the Indian appropriation bill, H. R. 15331, calling attention to certain telo-
AFTxliS or THE MEXICAS Kt« KjUPOO nirUSSu S015
V^ •^-ifpM'':* Illy, E. A- Hiicwrrjot.
IrETAjmncspr or tv
Ti* A75''At« ir^rr* « 1 1.
"^Q. la iiik rs^pr.r: c L*^*!2i-.«*r M. I1B6 tfci% *TcTr-Tn i*»aic«' 'Jt IsiiJui ASmt* *iri» m
faff siHBr.r^ tf •»*rLu~ Eu-kj^rx I mi ;Lr> iZi:i;si*^2Ci* isii ".h* -r.rjii»f:naaL -< :ixi% Mjtsb 1.
E«r.>7- -iTi^r^Tr-i.. knit rw:cx3ir^?iii»ii Tb*£ fc -xj \t i-j* ?»crr: ▼xk jrnrji^iBLTTa^p
"Lirt- j«n.*»« ittsi»^i ijj^^i.i.
B«ti'^:jii^ :c 'Jut -iiArr**. s^^ttTMishr t*Q i-jszuuA, 'at fanrf i=. pr>:7sriar »&» 4i
!!&*«»- !];k.ii:tf '.T \zj^ Zzftj^jA n* tf lnv^iLriszjiKZ boti ^inti 2ir Rcazn^i fr:ixL MwrT^ir ptt£«aai
4'x *Jii»: kZi-cnlrt-ra -T.o*d -j=ji«^"-Jii!r k.'r, -.^ Mirri >. I»5 Ul ?!OS L.. M*. B*M;.
Bj r«Mr,i::2ii:ii '.c J*<.r--ikJ7 14. I:>1H. ih* S*r.A2* -ijtrttfi lae Ssrrearr ^/ t&e Ixserur
^r.ii»tn*\r: ki»i -jiiHr..**** 't^rk^ufc-ria-.ca 1^ *i-*^^/jfcl II ^^^i fTr.AZ^A Jtec* Siiru:^ i. Etfi:::^!^.
fr>;a fTrLii*r »T.i..r..r.Ar>j'.c :i it* kpcttr»Ti'. *Jiii; ivjKi* &»^ ::z. -Jlj* rukwtr -a-i 6C!
iiwo* -.rrsH -.j.c. r **i-n-r. li* ZAZ^tr* v.r j:rjr ^r,o«ui*fkr.d:c. -y-rJi ritr.-j^K •iha.': «»:&
4f»a "^Ti: 3iaT la.-.* Trr.cji^t lit^ci -.•tj'-kc*^.. ,*r.T wsMiuJir.it 21 'J^t piinr* -c dUB
nri^x-i*i':. -*_* ••«tr_-jr r.«-.rr -una— -jtr.7 izm "Just •7"MJ«*f*ii. -r:- k» iJis: '.^a^rini --■>«
•a** -.n»u»r vj»-»rui-.r:.* '".C7 '.r :iir»r .r- r rtani-.r-t*^ ♦ r»c*:'r** '.c Di*i'.ftci-«*r il.. Li^'i: r»*iw:iT*
iw» -.f rj*r«:-.->ir >! IKx kr_ii ICkr-ii 10 1Xj6 rc«'.c 'j^^da.zA x '*r'jk^ ZAnji» iat
TiT^un -r v.** ,:AC»*r» tf-.i?. -uiitae i:k.:i*r rtp.n* u ^arfr jit nsaj !>►' jcai'.*;i*'a.iufr
V*r7 rsifftr.ir'— y.
'^■:;
2016 A7FAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Unttbd Statbs Simatb,
Denver, Colo., July 27, 1906,
Hon. Thomab Ryan,
AjuUUmi Secretary Interior,
Dbar Sib: At the last seflsion of Oonsrew an appropriation was made in the Indian
appropriation bill approved June 21, 1906, for the payment to the Kicking ELickapoo
auottees Uie money due them. I understand this money was the property of certain
individuals and did not belone to the tribe. It was provided that said payments
should be made through the First National Bank or the Border National Bank of
Eagle Pass, Tex., except that the Kickapoos now in Oklahoma mi^ht be paid there.
The majority of these Indians are in Mexico, where they have acquured land and wi^
to remam.
It was also provided in said act, as to all nonresident Indians, that all restrictions
on the sale of their lands in the United States be removed. This was done that these
Indians mi^ht sell their lands and purchase land in Mexico in addition to lands before
that time purrhaBed, as well as to enable them to purchase more land in Mexico.
The committee believed it was to the interest of these Indians that they should remain
in Mexico, where they had formerly lived until brought out of Mexico by the United
States against their will.
It appears now, from what I hear from the representatives of these Indians, that
certain officials in the Indian Territory are endeavoring to compel these Indiana to
return to the United States, and to do this they are disregarding the provisions of the
law to which I have referred.
. I am informed parties are now endeavoring to secure title to certain lands held by
these Indians, ana have in some cases succeeded in so doing at a price far below the
real value of said lands.
These Indians were represented at Washington by a Mr. Bentley, who at one time
was the United States Government agent of these Indians and who appears to have
had their confidence.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs is not favorably disposed toward Mr. Bentley.
These Indians arc now citizens of the United StatoH, but do not wish to remain in the
United StatoH, and do winh to become citizens of Mexico, and have been well received
by the Mexican authorities.
This matter, I think, demands the immediate attention of the Interior Depart-
ment, as the proceedings now complained of by these Indians is justified by the
Government officials now in Indian Territory as authorized by certain requests made
by the Interior Department on the Denartment of Justice, before the enactment of
the law to which I have referred. I inclone copiers of If^ters I have sent to the Depart-
ments of State and Justice which explain themselves.
Very respectfully,
H. M. Telmb.
Denver, Colo., July 13 j 1906,
Hon. Robert Bacon,
Acting Secretary of State.
Dear Sir: On page 42 of the act making appropriations for the current and con-
tingent expenses of the Indian Department, for fulfilling treaty stipulations, etc.,
approved July 21, 1906, under the heading of "Kickapoos," is a clause covering the
anairs of certain Indians who desire to go to Mexico and settle, and allowing them to
dispose of their lands, etc. I was iiiHtruincmtal in securing the adoption of this portion
of the bill, and I know the intention of Congress was that Mr. M. J. Bentley, the at-
torney for the above-mentioned Indians, should manage their affairs for them, as he
has been doing for some time, with the entire approval of these Indians now in Mexico.
Tlie committee! havin«[ this matter in charge know that the Commissioner of Indian
A£fairs was not friencQy to Mr. Bentley, but did not suppose he would pursue the
course he has since the passage of the act. I believe the committee was m favor of
allowing the Indians to sell their lands in the United States and buy land in Mexico
and make that their future home.
I underHtand that the consul at Diaz, Mexico, was instructed by your Department
to refuse? to wcept acknowledgments for Mr. Bentley. In this connection I desire
to say that if this order is not withdrawn, the Department will be put in the position
of attempting to nullify an act of Congress, which position I am sure your Department
will not care to be placed in. If this is not done, speculators will take advantage of
this order to buy the land of these Indians for much leas than they are worth, and I
M£u infitruifd that \h'w is now being done.
9017
CiDDCPBiK-
leer 2L. HMNL
to fiC}TSCT3Kfld.
Jj^ju^ Sox.- I iuuL'jK & ^•Tpj tf a !kRr.«a-_ I Bttrntr asis v> ibf- dtsLf- Dkc^aromoiiL I
y-Mseai isaii: lait in^ v. rwidfr T^ieK '^Tifhmiy topf> laxiaf ix -^ iTixiaxffi SuneiL
A 'ittBngBft -Liiw: iitb uBisaaxi cjs:^:!^. Ki^voenffj. Mr Omod^L. v im 3
imp set urs^ffutsMELiuL mv: ito jdEkis :£ ito KjttkssKfU ix Ifez^ccixi b siioiuk •oikcdbanL
inj^jni \^'x^ f^-^^ '^'' ^^^^i^v. £3it n '.xaasojj -wm ito JaxyeaoaaL cf Oqdbhk lAoft tkj
XK: In V. ai y.
1 tK liiYL tf tnnxK kiii'^ Mr. Ojsrxt: f ::iaBrQt:;!Kmt ntsTto. snn to tnai^ acft «» to
-^ ^Stje^ \i Mr. SentieT or set Mibc jpecr.a-'
TuiE^. 2H^^^Ll}jy &■ M. TsumL
EXHIBITS.
[Non. — Bxhibits Nos. 1 to 32, both inclusive, are to be found in Volume I of the Testis
mony.]
Exhibit No. 33 [Goode].
ToPBKA, Kans., September 6, 1898.
Hon. Thomas Ryan, Washington, D. C.
Deab Ryan : I hand you herewith a letter from S. M. Brosius, of the Indian
Rights Association, in regard to the management of Mr. Bentley, assistant
special United States Indian agent in Oklahoma.
I hope you will give his suggestions careful consideration and have the matter
looked into.
Very truly, Ohas. Oubtis.
Whitb Gloxtd, Kans., September S, 1898,
Hon. Ohas. Oxtbtis, M. O.,
Topeka, Kana,
My Deab Sib: During a recent sojourn among the Absentee Shawnee and
the Mexican Kickapoo Indians under the care of the Sac and Fox Agency,
Okla., I found much dissatisfaction among the Indians with the management
of Martin J. Bentley, an assistant special United States Indian agent.
Believing, as I do, that the intention of the United States Government has
been and is to induce these Indians to settle upon their allotments and to
become self-supporting, I secured much evidence by affidavit and otherwise,
so that a proper presentation of the existing conditions may be presented to
the Interior Department.
The evidence shows that said Bentley has not only not been encouraging
these Indians to settle upon their allotments, but that he is apparently opposed
to that policy, causing many to abandon the homes they have heretofore
somewhat improved, and many others have become discouraged by his actions
and do not know what to do, fearing that in the near future they will be com-
pelled to leave their allotments and remove to some other locality; it is
further shown that said Bentley has not been encouraging the Indians to
patronize the schools provided for them, and that his advice is confusing to
them and they fear that some great calamity is about to overtake them.
The Absentee Shawnee tribe claim, and the proof seems to be positive, that
the said Bentley connived with others to secure the approval of a purported
contract between the Big Jim band of these Indians and Attorney W. S. Field,
wherein the Indians agreed to pay said Field for certain legal work to be
performed, the contract being dated about December 13, 1897.
Only nine members of the Absentee Shawnee tribe signed the said contract,
and probably no others knew of the execution of the same at the time; the
tribe claiming that they had no knowledge of its execution until long after-
wards and not until a copy of the purported contract was forwarded to the
Sac and Fox Agency to be filed in that office.
To secure the approval of this purported contract the said Bentley attached
his certificate thereto wherein he makes the following statement:
" I am acquainted with the maimers and customs of said tribe in relation
to the calling and conducting of their councils * * * and that the said
resolution was passed by said council by a unanimous vote, and that the same
expresses the unanimous will of said council and of said tribe; and that
the said council was called, and held according to the manners and customs of
said tribe."
and signed the said certificate as assistant special United States Indian agent.
The affidavits show that the resolution was not passed by a unanimous vote
of the Big Jim council ; that a large majority of the tribe are opposed to the
employment of Field ; that the council was altogether irregular and not called
and held according to the manners and customs of the said tribe; that
probably not more than ten members of the tribe knew anything of the calling
cf the said council; that no pubic notice was given for the tribe to assemble
2020 AFFAIBS 09 THB MBXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
In council to consider tlie employment of nld Field, as is done in every case
where tribal business is to be considered; that the said council employing
Field as attorney was clandestinely called and held and in opposition to the
will of the tribe.
I am satisfied that other irregularities exist in this connection and am deeply
impressed that a great wrong is being done these Indians, one that calls for
a rigid investigation of the whole subject by a competent Indian inspector.
In this connection I wish to enlist your cooperation, to the end that this
inflection may not be a farce and that some officer may be directed to do this
work who is fearless, and knowing what is right will do it
I trust you may see fit to address the Hon. Thomas Ryan, First Assistant
Secretary of the Interior, who would probably have charge of the appointment
of an inspector, urging that either Inspectors Wright, Tinker, or McLaughlin
be directed to make the investigation.
I will be under obligations if you will address Mr. Ryan, as stated, and in-
close the same to me at White Cloud, Kans.
I am, very truly, 8. M. Bbosiub.
Washington Buseau, New Yobk Evening Post,
Wyatt BuUding, September 10^ 1898.
Deab Sib: I hand you, inclosed, a petition supported by affidavits, which I
received this morning from Mr. S. M. Brosius, agent of the Indian Rights Asso-
ciation, who was prevented by urgent business from returning to Washington
to present them in person.
As an ex-representative of the Indian Rights Association I feel a strong in-
terest in Mr. Brosius's work, and join with him in the hope that the strongest
man you can spare in the corps of inspectors will be detailed to make this
investigation.
Sincerely, yours, Francis B. Leitfp.
Hon. Thos. Ryan,
Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
The Secbetabt of the Intebiob,
Washington, D. O.
Sib: The policy of the United States being to settle the Absentee Shawnee
and the Mexican Eickapoo tribes of Indians upon their allotments in the
Territory of Oklahoma, and to encourage them to become .self-supporting, the
officers appointed for this service should be men of stability of character who
will conscientiously execute that policy.
Numerous complaints are made against Special Indian Agent Martin J^
Bentley, who seems to have special charge of the affairs of the ''Kicking"
Kickapoos and the ''Big Jim" band of the Absentee Shawnee Indians con-
nected with the said tribes. I find this dissatisfaction is widespread.
A proper administration of the Indian Service demands that a thorough
investigation, by an inspector from your Department, be made of the official
conduct of Special Indian Agent M. J. Bentley and of W. S. Field, attorney,
of Oklahoma City, Okla., regarding the securing of a purported contract
between the said Field and certain of the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid.
Investigation should also be made of the general management of his trust,
on the part of said M. J. Bentley as special agent for the said Indians, which is
somewhat set forth herein.
I hereto append affidavits executed by representative members of the said
tribes of Indians, and basing my statements upon said affidavits, together with
information derived from various sources, it is claimed on behalf of said
Indians:
First That Martin J. Bentley, in charge of many of these Indians, by his
administration of said office, is thwarting the good intention of the United
States by leading many of the said Indians to believe that they can dispose of
their allotments already made, and encouraging them to believe that they can
secure other reservation lands where their tribal relation can be continued
and their lands be held in common.
Second. That numerous families of the said tribes, believing the representa-
tions made to them by said Bentley, have abandoned their allotments already
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAK KICKAPOO INDIANS. 3021
improved and again embraced the sliiftless life they formerly led, the pnrpofle
of the United States being thus defeated and the funds appropriated being
worse than wasted.
Third. It is claimed by these Indians that the said Bentley Is being paid
from their funds, so they are informed, and that they have never requested
that he or anyone else be appointed, and that no authority has been given by
them for disbursement of funds for that purpose, and if any purported authority
is filed with the Indian Department granting such expenditure it is a forgery.
Fourth. The progressive Indians complain that they are discouraged from
the fact that said Bentley gives no encouragement to the industrious members
of the tribe, he representing that our Government cares much less for them on
account of their thrift than for the idle Indians who desire to dispose of their
allotments and have a reservation in common, the latter being fed while the
former receive no aid from the United States, the Eickapoos of the workli^
class claiming they have received no support since said Bentley was appointed
as a special agent in their interest
Fifth. That much laxity exists in the manner of disbursement or issue of
goods to said Indians, thus opening the door to fraud on the part of said
Bentley, Government property being issued oftentimes without being branded,
no title being given the Indian, the possession being shifted from one to
another, and representations being made to the Indians that he, the said
Bentley, has thus aided them, the United States being too poor. An investiga-
tion may reveal the fact that certain Government property handled by said
Bentley has been sold by him, notably a wagon received last fall and
disposed of a few days ago; mules and harness bought last winter and never
issued nor branded.
Sixth. It is thought that an hivestigation will reveal the fact that said
Bentley has established a system of paying Indians funds due them by Issuing
orders on merchants, thus affording abundant opportunity for gain to himself
by division of profits, with consequent loss to the Indians.
Seventh. In consequence of the policy apparent on the part of said Bentley
to defeat the Government's intention to settle these Indians on their allotments,
no care is exercised in settling the Indians on the particular tracts allotted to
tJiem, and after improvement has been made the Indian is discouraged to
ascertain that he is not located upon his own allotment, becomes discouraged,
and abandons the new way pointed out to him by those who have his interest
at heart
Eighth. That the said Bentley has advised the Indians to educate their own
children and not send them to the schools provided for them, this advice
resulting in antagonism to the schools and consequent probable increase of
ignorance in the tribe, which it must take other influences for good to overcome.
Ninth. That said Bentley's advice has been confusing — ^the Indians not know-
ing what the intention of the United States is regarding their welfare.
Tenth. That said Bentley does not give the attention to the Indians under
his care that his position contemplates, long periods elapsing during which
he is not on the lands where the Indians are located, one instance being
reported wherein he is said to have been absent for a period of two and one-
half months.
Eleventh. That said Bentley approved of the action of one W. S. Field, an
attorney, wherein a contract was secured from certain members of the Absentee
Shawnee tribe of Indians, wherein they agreed to pay the said Field certain
funds, which, as the said Indians believe, have been paid from the tribal
moneys, the said purported contract being dated on or about December 13, 1897 ;
the said Bentley attaching his certificate to the said contract wherein he states
that " I am acquainted with the manners and customs of said tribe in relation
to the calling and conducting of their councils « « « and that the said
resolution was passed by said council by a unanimous vote, and that the same
expresses the unanimous will of said council and of said tribe; and that the
said council was called and held according to the manners and customs of said
tribe," the said Bentley attaching his certificate thereto as assistant special
United States Indian agent so that the said contract might be approved by
the Gonmilssioner of Indian Affairs and the Secretary of the Interior, in order
that the said W. S. Field would secure from the United States the sums of
money agreed to be paid in the said purported contract with the said tribe,
a copy of the said contract being hereto attached, marked "Exhibit A" (see
Exhibit "Q"), deluding the certificate of the said M. J. Bentley; the said
Absentee Shawnee Indians declare under oath that no general knowledge of
2022 APFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
the calling of the said council was had by the tribe; that so far as they are
informed only niAe or ten members of the tribe were present when the pur-
ported contract was executed between the tribe and W. S. Field; that they
would have been opposed to the said action on the part of the tribe; that
no tribal business is conducted of importance without first giving notice of
a general council to consider the same, and that a majority of such general
council is required to determine such action as will be binding upon the tribe,
this having been the manner and custom of conducting tribal business for
many years ; that but a small minority of the voting members of the tribe signed
the said contract and that it is altogether irregular and therefore void; that
they had no knowledge of the existence of such a contract until a copy of the
same, approved by th6 Ck)mmissioner of Indian Affairs and the Secretary of
the Interior, was filed in the oflSce of the United States Indian agent at the
Sac and Fox Agency, Olila.
The affidavits herewith filed show that five out of seven members of the
"business committee" of the tribe had no knowledge of the council in which
it is claimed that the said contract was executed. The official clerk of the
council of the said tribe also states that he had no notice of the calling or
assembling of any council on December 13, 1897, or at any other time, for the
purpose indicated in the said contract.
If upon investigation it is found that the statements made herein regard-
ing the execution of the purported contract with W. S. Field and the accompa-
ny in;;^ certificate executed by said Bentley are in the main correct, no proper
course presents itself other than the removal of the said Bentley as assistant
special United States Indian agent.
A synopsis of the papers filed herewith is as follows :
Exhibit A. — Copy of purported contract with W. S. Field, containing copy
of certificate of Martin J. Bentley. (See Exhibit Q.)
Exhibit B. — Affidavit of Thomas W. Alford, member of said tribe, claiming
he had no knowledge of the purported council at which the said Field was
employed on the 13th day of December, 1897, or at any other time; that he is
familiar with the custom of tribe in transacting business, and that the pro-
ceedings are not regular wherein said Field was employed as attorney; that
he is a member of the " business committee " of the said tribe ; that he firmly be-
lieves that not one member of the " business committee " had any knowledge
of or was present at the purported council aforesaid. In this connection I
wish to add that Mr. Alford is a finely educated man, and was assistant to
the surveyor and surveyed the lands which are now included in the allotments
to the tribes of Indians herein mentioned. Mr. Alford further states that
M. J. Bentley has stated to him that it would be better for the said Indians to
abandon their allotments and migrate to the West and to Mexico.
Exhibit C— Affidavit of Walter H. Shawnee, in which he states that he
is a member of tribe, also a member of the " business committee " of the
tribe; is well informed as to the customs of the tribe in the transaction of
business ; that the custom is to call a general council ; that no council was
called to consider the employment of said Field as attorney for the tribe;
that he believes that not one member of the "business committee" was pres-
ent at the said council nor knew of it having been held until long afterwards;
that M. J. Bentley has told him on several occasions that it would be better
for the said Absentee Shawnee Indians to abandon their allotments and remove
somewhere else ; that M. J. Bentley is trying to induce the said Indians to re-
move elsewhere.
Exhibit D. — Affidavit of John C. King, a member of the tribe, a member of
the " business committee ; " that Bentley has told him that these Indians should
be removed from their present allotments, and that it mattered not where
they were moved to; these statements discourage the Indians who want to
work and improve their homes; that the Indians are confused and embar-
rassed and do not know what to do; had no notice of a council for the pur-
pose of considering the employment of Field as attorney for the tribe; is con-
versant with the manner and custom of the tribe in transacting business, and
that the employment of Field was altogether irregular, as it was not done in
open council ; that the whole plan was instigated and carried out by Field,
with the assistance of M. J. Bentley, with the knowledge on their part that the
tribe would not agree to the same if they had an opportunity to vote and ex-
press their views; believes it to be highly important that an Investigation be
made of the whole matter for the interests of the tribe.
"lO TXPTANP.
2026
II
»e
in
to
of
i\V-
in*e-
vlri-
aud
.1 to
;Vairs
AiU of
been
,Mnont
Special
. lit the
;\m\ the
juo wlf-
lice and
j.'ctlully
I'S.
niation.
ly, Torritorv
iii'e tribr of
Ki)X Af:«'ii<*.v»
1 seven ni»'ni-
• Interior niul
n;:inn(.M's and
. = i" <MMmcils for
:»\ no (MKnKril
liiat tinio: tlmt
any roun<'il or
wlintover; that
.1 lo act for the
r in opon <M)un-
:.iy action talion
I hereof: that I
\A.. ^>xv W-V'V\VCW
: 3Kml I wm tSL kffiat JBttei^vk. an- w be- Sunaifl Sb TtftiOH I «ff Ite Terfl*
ToRKA. Kajk. ^yfeifcr C ISM.
9Q0gfSJaij irxLX»i4 jc^QtKtf lariQaai «sHi't su Oli^teilKauiL
T4S7 iriLT, Ghjjl Ocbbsk.
Wksik Omcol Kajk. &tvt^ema0ar I. ifOfSi
Mr Imam, ^san Imr^Eu^ a spweeut siPMosa Jcniuii^ ilbir JiteaittEie fltopjn* sad
1^ lOesjKsiat ifcVtaiawit' iJiAiicitf naier ibcf <<xzie <iir nlbc fiae «iiifl Fvk jMksuct,
-tif JftairLo. ^. £iciic^kir- ^oi jtSHHnxici t^mal! CibJMifl j^jcks ILnftii^ is^eui.
'Wwoi :i&xi£ if ii» ibftiKif i&MsiK' il.itffanff ^» mitrtk' wc^MiOi tA^jt 4iIkft3iKarts iLufl 1»
TliK' •»-ri&»3ii'it' ^'.*pf "dxti «Li< B»axtit?' ititf me <ub3j iaui ^ksol 4siisiiiin;ri]is
tnifi di> livn loiinr -w^xt'. v,' -^.t. fyatrh^ Tldci iii lift: amnj £isciir% 3ii^ w2j ^ tMB-
^iii»szL oifl '!±i»7 StsKT 'iltK.T Kout {T^^jBl -aJeajTr js tttunzi v^* -weraJBCr ti»»!XL.
tnonntf!: i«er«n««L i^ l^j^ xjeil iieufl •ttf i&i«K' SDrfiicas sme A.-nnruqr ir^ :£. F^ekA.
j#er!:iiniW9&. ilKr <»ar!=KS tiuiic ^asafl slmc LKACoi&fir 12L l^RC.
-!rfti!r •ittJiLJUf "Titti:: Ti**?- imfi nt- laii*iraeflp»: '.<f ra -esftKrirrii'.it Tii::tl svatz tfVir-
irurfe «i4 ii'«: jurJ^ t wi^?- rf TSit ivBryjrj:A *yjar:Twz -mn^ iiCTrjira*fS ^i- Tiff
Bar iai€ Pti AgKii'T- iv ^ fitifi 3l ^Aar: '.db^jfe.
T^ ¥tf'mr»- lift' iiji;ir.»rij: i«f t±::» ypcsyxVfA 'stacrBk^t tte- «tjfi B«ir:ll»7' £rLii'.dMifl
If *^*- »-*■ ' • "i^ LJifi %iiiiD*?Lix«5 '."f "diftiT wanivli* • • • 4!3«fl Tia.' "V^ MbjA
TVmVLmJKtL -VH^ pLflHB^ Vf UbJ& ^SVUH'Sl ^ 41 TTItBli TllWat T^<K:. Lll^ lillf:: lit'e «ilLIW
'tilt mtjt -^fizit'^ ints !3uJci£ ^sifi i^uA iHiwrdiuf » iiift' xutanMS joifl 'jnotoiif: «tf
«aifi #4niH<! i&ft' miA ^xsni^^xrj^ as teaBHRxxfi i|;<«caLl Cur^tfl 9!Zi» l^i&oi at^^xci.
-^^ 15* Rip Tim ^nmvS - iSict « iti^pi- na^^r^Tj ctf "ait Trite- ns^ tiji;f:Hwfi v^* -an*
«ii9ilivr3i«fac if Fk*j4 : ^&br ite *f,vaai*£2 was .t^Vj^^KfAMBsr JTT*i^vOtXT loifl HvC ^2IlLhi6
mrfl !bfiM jwwc'CJitr v. la*?- mt-nu*?^ tcni 'Tmttonf tif Ht*- «jfi trlt#f . rhOT
ywiUiftfcr iifir 3uir»- -Jhij. lei 2ii*!iii:»«r* ttf -slit -rrAf aate^r gLT^.rnp rf -tAr- *a-uJcn5
^ ttf «»Jd >!%»llll'.d: . lHaa 3ll< }iUfc*t', ItUdttt; iri:f ^^TVSi £iff tilt XriliCr li/ Mm¥f3aSlMkt
2020 AFFAIBS 09 THB MBZIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
In council to consider the employment of nld Field, as is done in every case
where tribal business is to be considered; that the said council employing
Field as attorney was clandestinely called and held and in opposition to the
will of the tribe.
I am satisfied that other irregularities exist in this connection and am deeply
impressed that a great wrong is being done these Indians, one that calls for
a rigid investigation of the whole subject by a competent Indian inspector.
In this connection I wish to enlist your cooperation, to the end that this
inspection may not be a farce and that some officer may be directed to do this
work who is fearless, and knowing what is right will do it
I trust you may see fit to address the Hon. Thomas Ryan, First Assistant
Secretary of the Interior, who would probably have charge of the appointment
of an inspector, urging that either Inspectors Wright, Tinker, or McLaughlin
be directed to make the investigation.
I will be under obligations if you will address Mr. Ryan, as stated, and in-
close the same to me at White Cloud, Kans.
I am, very truly, 8. M. Bsosiua.
Washinqtok Buseau, New Yobk Evening Post,
Wyatt Building, September 10^ 1898.
Deab Sib: I hand you, inclosed, a petition supported by affidavits, which I
received this morning from Mr. S. M. Brosius, agent of the Indian Rights Asso-
ciation, who was prevented by urgent business from returning to Washington
to present them in person.
As an ex-representative of the Indian Rights Association I feel a strong in-
terest in Mr. Brosius's work, and Join with him in the hope that the strongest
man you can spare in the corps of inspectors will be detailed to make this
investigation.
Sincerely, yours, Fbaivois B. Leitfp.
Hon. Thos. Ryan,
Assistant Secretary of the Interior.
The Secbetabt of the Intebiob,
Washington, D. O.
Sib: The policy of the United States being to settle the Absentee Shawnee
and the Mexican Eickapoo tribes of Indians upon their allotments in the
Territory of Oklahoma, and to encourage them to become self-supporting, the
officers appointed for this service should be men of stability of character who
will conscientiously execute that policy.
Numerous complaints are made against Special Indian Agent Martin J*
Bentley, who seems to have special charge of the affairs of the '"Kicking"
Kickapoos and the ''Big Jim" band of the Absentee Shawnee Indians con-
nected with the said tribes. I find this dissatisfaction is widespread.
A proper administration of the Indian Service demands that a thorough
investigation, by an inspector from your Department, be made of the official
conduct of Special Indian Agent M. J. Bentley and of W. S. Field, attorney,
of Oklahoma City, Okla., regarding the securing of a purported contract
between the said Field and certain of the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid.
Investigation should also be made of the general management of his trust,
on the part of said M. J. Bentley as special agent for the said Indians, which is
somewhat set forth herein.
I hereto append affidavits executed by representative members of the said
tribes of Indians, and basing my statements upon said affidavits, together with
information derived from various sources, it is claimed on behalf of said
Indians :
First That Martin J. Bentley, in charge of many of these Indians, by his
administration of said office, is thwarting the good intention of the United
States by leading many of the said Indians to believe that they can dispose of
their allotments already made, and encouraging them to believe that they can
secure other reservation lands where their tribal relation can be continued
and their lands be held in common.
Second. That numerous families of the said tribes, believing the representa-
tions made to them by said Bentley, have abandoned their allotments already
Mrr^mB or ms xExiGijir KmL&roo nnunL 9021
C^XDBifl Hia'hW' kfui^ irtiw
l^nmi afiiRir fimAft. «i> iSht- «» isftimtffld. xufl liiKi i±i^ 3qki% 2WfB-
j( ifiiBA w^tflj Iter ?TMffgn> lAEgflonaiifBCt yiinii imp wbA ayHuduuK 9t 3s s SuL^iEiAi.
FonrflL IQit ypupMfciJUr Iiiffwnff wmffuant tfau i^Hsr cKf 4LiBeif«ii!»CBii fipiiB
"QKt lacs ISiei «drfl EttexrtM-Tr ft'^nw xh* ■gnqimiatpHiuBci ^ ite* mtjoafMnJK
or i:iR- Trikif:. te^ Te^vvKaxrhtf iltti «inr Gftn^enouBDr •*&!«» jom^ Mam £w i
ttwf mm -tf Itesir 3±B^ft liocs £Hr Ite* ifflte iTitf ieiifr «^b> Aeaav »» ^fiapKae <itf '
Klitrmaixs cufl la-Rr s nserresiiuL il -wiiimiiiiL ifkie Joixiiur Ibtaiic U/t w^Sit
Fif:±. T^ir: iisut± lnjLrrr «xifns je iter mtsxuar vf •dHftnEnmaiiit 40- Smbt if
m* 13!^ ifiiiiip t^T^*^3L iSbit Tt»tf»»^i ite yTBTTiinn Mine i&LXfKiA £nii& 101^ i»
amiHia:. sue s^roHinia^taitf beoBK sniir n^ litt' iT-BffMm» littS hs. tAie «ui
3&BmaQr. iotf iQxm ajflfiti -dUBiiL the CaiiflBi Scrtw kfuur «* jnwc .
i^ifi 211^ T^Rfft: 'ilMr lutit iJkiia vsrsui GivvvmnofsiA prv|fiisn7 iBEBiffifsi Igr
ffiqiMMifi iif :£ f'fv ^ta7« 19(': suites jmfl laTUMs Vimcdxi !•& wjcftsr aad ■
jafiuofl nor texidlBfi.
OFflea iffi mgr/tiKirsfe. -diiff jJTtirfijs^ c\«mkdiaa i^pir'niLJ^ l^r gBrc t» T
fif^raoi^ Ix 'jiiiii4»fviKiii'» i<r rnjtt j0iLl^ t^i^iuvir. ta i^tf- pert ttf sifl BszcSaf
ti> fttil-faa tilt <Gri«r«rimitiir f ixn«i:::jtiL 1^ sptim- -r^ABfit Xn^ieis u& i^ieir jLlHiniiiBiai^
jiKfBruLiii tSuki ift* if ast IwaotiC i^'.il liif ("vrit jLQcnautsirL i^numtii ^LsBcvsHint.
Mi iMfiLrL
SicriitlL. Tbe: tS» wjC Borfiker Imf adr-jiKfd 1^ IxiOisaff i» «ftiRB3e tkectr 4*«m
r^iIifireL «xi£ use ii*ni£ l^jtsm n* 'ite iR^rwttf ^e^«rjdsi£ lur i^kbl. 3&u ikdri^
i|3iiin3ifft' XL T^ TTiif*^ vlu'^ s. JBom ':3Jut tiiifir JxLfnoiWK fur fvufl ib» «nB?i>fliiiie.
lus 'JK!% TiiBT luf jftta-riuL '.rjxri/sn^iaa^i^ iimc ^lericifiF •tSttqffatf •ftnriBF -vriLksk
Itt* jF iitn at TSut joiitt '•rlrtrt* zlut 3ji^uit» -kj^ jiicesMl. uzif jomaajat ^000$^
j«}iurHi£ iriffiraaii i« x Kifl »» Ikt^ ^eusl t-tiwiia lir & j«rJiufl of 7mb ant -bb^
fiarsQUflf irlnf^ i<f 7ii* lr^th -voisrHn. i^ie?^ i^r^i^tf it- 70:7 1^ ibjA FjeOi cnniLix
tsmtm. vIli'.^. tLf "iIa^^ «l.i£ lxif.:i:iif )«e i*-t4^ itcT»: i«»jei ptjt frvoB ISoe Tr^doj
'tut mat Banuf?- iCTat'/r ng ijs twidi'jer.^ 1: -jxit- «lj£ •'.r.mirbir. -vorirtiiL iie «ur.it»
i&iin! *■ I LiL ii'/viajxr-*ft ^'r:X liifr niyimw*^ tiif ••uftioi* itf sui "rribt jl T^tuiinua
H' Tiff' 'JL^JUp CIi£ M^m^n'^^ntg- yC llllfiir !nJIIli*!Jlf • • • |^* tiaC ifttt^ BJifl
2«Muir.iuL v'l:^ ^jiiiiHefd t^ «l.i1 »niii'.!l ^ t iTi;> i ?Tiitn» -rvCtf: xnt i^ic:: "i^ sutur
«s;^ir!9mii» "Hit iniKi rnr.'Uf v^Il :<r «lj£ 'rti'ju'jl Lui i< «tif TrJi«- imi "aii: -aj©
«a£ wmii'^ -PTtft 'jiJjwi tul iieii byjnrln;r *:: tiit niLiin+rf loil '.iMr.-.iiiif it vaJiA
CiusBfi itiir«»2fr :n£.fi f;£»zr:. vt *jxa:* Tiirt^ hl-jI trncLrs^*.!: iLi^in Itt* ijipri'v.cff ^
'tSbtt OmmLHwi'.mtjr ttf luliii ^Ti rr iiiii lii*: »»*«'.?»r-iJ7 if -.iit- Ijc«rj:r- ik nrJrtr
^ias. titt mtjt "T. ?> Tnui -v.iiJl ifSfviL-* fnm. -in- TiJawfi J^a-iw liit fnsxtf *f
junuBF iif:mvt v. W ;il-i1 ix rii* «ii.tl ;iur;r.r:**l '.r.ui'rru'.r. vra. t±i* «.jf -r-Jiit.
» ^2RW ^'^ "^211: fitjii !r.iinni»?: i^.rnr ii*!r*r.:' icr-U'iii*fL mtritwi * ILuJ:-: A' mat
Stonrxii* liiiatiifc 6ffiiU;rtr im&tc' unzX Zhtz ia c^suerL. amm'jitiip^ ^
2022 APPAIBS OP THE MBXTCAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
the calling of the said council was had by the tribe; that so far as they are
informed only nlAe or ten members of the tribe were present when the pur-
ported contract was executed between the tribe and W. S. Field; that they
would have been opposed to the said action on the part of the tribe; that
no tribal business is conducted of importance without first giving notice of
a general council to consider the same, and that a majority of such general
council is required to determine such action as will be binding upon the tribe,
this having been the manner and custom of conducting tribal business for
many years ; that but a small minority of the voting members of the tribe signed
the said contract, and that it is altogether irregular and therefore void; that
they had no knowledge of the existence of such a contract until a copy of the
same, approved by th6 Ck)mmi8sioner of Indian Affairs and the Secretary of
the Interior, was filed in the otRce of the United States Indian agent at the
Sac and Fox Agency, Olda.
The affidavits herewith filed show that five out of seven members of the
"business committee" of the tribe had no knowledge of the council in which
it is claimed that the said contract was executed. The official clerk of the
council of the said tribe also states that he had no notice of the calling or
assembling of any council on December 13, 1897, or at any other time, for the
purpose indicated In the said contract.
If upon investigation it Is found that the statements made herein regard-
ing the execution of the purported contract with W. S. Field and the accompa-
ny in jj certificate executed by said Bentley are in the main correct, no proper
course presents itself other than the removal of the said Bentley as assistant
special United States Indian agent.
A synopsis of the papers filed herewith is as follows :
Exhibit A. — Copy of purported contract with W. S. Field, containing copy
of certificate of Martin J. Bentley. (See Exhibit Q.)
Exhibit B. — Affidavit of Thomas W. Alford. monil)er of said tribe, claiming
he had no knowledge of the purported council at which the said Field was
employed on the l.'ith day of I)oceiiil>er, 1807, or at any other time ; that he is
familiar with the custom of tribe in transacting business, and that the pro-
ceedings are not regular wherein said Field was employed as attorney; that
he is a member of the " business committee " of the said tribe ; that he firmly be-
lieves that not one niomlwr of the "business committee" had any knowledge
of or was present nt the purported council aforesaid. In this connection I
wish to add that Mr. Alford is a finely edwated man, and was assistant to
the surveyor and survoyod the lands which are now included in the allotments
to the tribes of Indians h<»n»ln mentlone<l. Mr. Alford further states that
M. .7. H(Mitley lias stated to him that It would be better for the said Indians to
abandon their allotments and migrate to the West and to Mexico.
Exhibit (^— Affidavit of Walter H. Shawnee, in which he states that he
is a member of trll>e, also a member of the " business committee " of the
tribe; is well informed as to the customs of the tribe in the transaction of
business; that the <'ustom is to call a general council; that no council was
called to consider the employment of said Field as attorney for the tribe;
that he believes that not one member of the ** business committee" was pres-
ent at the said council nor knew of it having been held until long afterwards;
that M. J. Bentley has told him on several o<*<'asIons that it would be better
for the said Absentee Shawm^e Indians to al)andon their allotments and remove
somewhere else; that M. J. Bentley is trying to induce tlie said Indians to re-
move elsewhere.
Exhibit n. — Affidavit of .lohn C. King, a member of the tribe, a member of
the ** business committee; " that Bentley has told him that these Indians should
be removed from their present allotments, and thnt it mattered not where
they were moved to; these statements dis<'onnig<' the Indians who want to
work and improve their homes; that the Indians an? <*onfu8ed and embar-
rassed and do not know what to clo; hjid no notice of a council for the pur-
pose of <'onsidering the employiiu'nt of Fiold as attorney for the tribe; Is c«on-
versant with the manner aixl custom (»f tlie tribe in transacting business, and
that the employment of Field was altogether Irregular, as It wjis not done In
open council : that the wliole plan was instigated and carried out by Field,
with the assistance of M. .1. Bentley, with the knowledge on their part that the
tribe would not agree to tlie same if they had an opportunity to vote and ex-
press their views; beli<'ves it to b<» highly important that an investigation bO
made of the whole matter for the Interests of the trll)e.
AVXAiB or THE mmrjiy KfCKAFoo mcASS. 30S3
^'^xmax. wtcft ttmt auarmeffs ami •tnaeAmif 'Of t&i!' trlhi*' n^^fifisi^ tiki*- tncMorffifiife <i€
^rnbDeai^ saiC dloo: jt jshmsxI fn«iiii*,il i» 'r:fci:ii»ff f'^^r ^ut "MO^i^ftrxtU^it 4f tike
tkn^iwMf Qt> 'fnoK lh«f4ei!r tte* tirl^: ^H! zS»r ^^tiLr, mfsabnK^ zs9t oAdllKffi ^ the
BBX«*i< aoul 'farr'jrtjf tarn *ffi«t aoul dibfr *fiii:nra«r*i! autrfte- an wfgfc tin*' Aiii '^ 31. J.
WStoBGigf: to- azai F!«!M w»£C ibiriwta^ r&xc tik^ arlAi»' w<^«iii4 ant asr»^ &> ti^K* maagf
t7lfi«»- tKi> c&e- Cnmni^sairiWfir <^ Saiflaoi JUrajr» a^pfcrntfi: far& a 9ry9(ffi<f:a;$ «ad aH»
Cz&ACt <i. — JldWfcrr?t ^€ W*Hjaai saawTu**: * Itortirtjjitt nmAitr ^ ir&fr trae.
^ 7>«CT ^f asp*-: «?"« trSat v^ks aar?- a«w Ikwfiiiww 1* ©> iu* <w«»&igr>»t tfx dK
GPflki*' aE dif!' aKf!i£ii aijf!siiAi»rf arie aifdifM t!A' ^tsm^xaJbkn oa ^ipiOi <fminKiI: f>^r it-f '^fts-
^iA»m!iShix: ; tafr ira* a«« ^it^St^ ^ t£te- ^«m«ni ca- ^fr^wCiifsr tfte- ap<pi«afm)«»c •f
F!i»ift asi a-nst^nu!?' f<iir cbn- W3m:i dSnfl Vit d3r«^ <if tSut ^o^mK^eft ^ tAer <mic£r:aef
anH a ai^gr 9s» seBC 1S9* ir&i!' Taifasrf Sea»» Cavtjaa a^«i£ at Sk- aaif F«w Jkjp^si^rT*
fisB)^ af!&!r I'tr wa:^ <aKrncD!ff : «?¥ Bi»st!iK7 » «£anMica^£2i^ tikic ffarffarait frnoi: a»-
gr»fila^ i!&fli£?- £K2ni»: fo:?^ dksit *** Bi^ J^au*** a Difftdff' ^ tbtt tearl '^ itte* Ai^f^^a:M»
Suwsttk rsfb0t ««« ftam af«r &» ff*»fnn ftnm Wasrifcia^Tyiii;. D- C t:&*»- pftit
wlxxssr w^fKffr fi% Jim &d^ i^pi»9t «fiu»' ir<»fHiL% c&dd: f>a£Lf?T wns mg/^nmrjiil S^ fSmt
giifiimif SLi^ftt: Ii**-*^ ?Ai»lT arSriCHiBKa ami !iiv<iu*!f aaif fn- «■ ^Ai*- w*aBSP»ra. '^*»iafry,
5ffl«wii]A? crOW^ •'if rail.aajf ; j* fam.Ijkr •sr:rA 'Jx* 'vmi^ftxosk aarf auiifla«»r!» '^ rju»^ ^tsA
trtte Ji lAi?- tr:iai«i*r:i'/a <-,< &»ima««i. aaif rjiartr a jMwral! '^^nnfrl iff '»jtr!l»*»f •'^f tdtap
aiinlt oiftiVf auwini^r^ snif "Ju^ fe»i»&iftw f liiy .Triiiertr4«»i* at <'9wnu*iT ; ^ bsbi aiv aivciflp
^ a ^mu^ %^va:f -ra Jj»*#f ?» ^MiaUflfW tiifr ^itpifVTTiwnt ^f W, 3L P^rikf asi arr&'iniigr
4f -fli»r '!rlh#»' *±i»- wtirtti*- 5r»fw**f:n;? •»*.♦ Irr^sfT^ar aail <*€" a**- ♦ffi»»*t: &a* &i*5i!i>l
auea?' rnniuw?i c&a^: dta*- rrllV!- W4'inhd %^ *'win:p«M>*£ ta- awrflnf- tteir &i'/aif»*f aarf ;p»
<»i«WF4ifn^- J!.v Lit*:, aaif riii»' rrmivir* ar* ▼♦r? 'l:4m»ira^iii^ : !W!i^*» tAsit 3t J.
r:r*lv^; w^^ fnr awn? 7**^^ ^ 3i»*ti:iv»r '-.f ♦r&fr "* Bc?f Jcn^ ^Mmi ^t "^ HtiA
aaif B^arijff?- iaw al-rij^ fy.ui i:m '^'ii: 'iifr ra.->rf Stjesw .ilft*ff?»f{ tifr taifl^av
^^ T»*mi'.»''*' fr'.m 'ht*r T*rT—.:r7' -.f ^AliiV/tEui, t^ *ir<»frt! 'if iri>ii an:* fWm. v*^ «4if-
^nradcft -iu^ lail-aart fr^.m fim.na?: ^ a ^^r-Jir^^gAt aarf fTH btiiOrf auwiAw <ff
*!aK' «kjf rr'Jv^ ^f rail;i!U»: J* I'V'-A -^■»*** ^-*^ "-ii*^ in>^Ta>»r ^^f tiin^ !^>iRisi^9Hr
Jt?^ •:Iii»- ^*Jv». ami -i:ir. t.: -^ .i^t.iJz 2ii»!iih#*n ar** arit::feff t^ aj»K]i6(«^ ftw tibf
pnar^niii^ ^ T.rm4¥^{ nar --.•j'^^r *:ii»^ 2i*-i^ '»imni»«i ami 4(*<*'jrl.nsf ?5y a aialorTtj ^
.•nii«<rft*r "tlu^ appfjiitrxj^tti: ^f W. « F.i»u'l -^^f 0«i::;iii-ttui CiTj-. <jk:jst^ af arra-.raify
fiir "hPr rr'lv^ : m»r ind ar. C3i'>«3r>fla3* -if i^* ,i^p#;iur:nii*!it f-'ir ai:ta,7 Tr*f^y[:* a5*i*r-
':liar ^m^lt-.^rf^rt «.*! f'Xii : ..^ yt-.m^.-^* a!: -Si* -r-.-#^*H*»;;n^ 'vf «i:if -Virsxif*-!. -Jrw^r*?'
rTJKriixir amf -r-.uf; i.':*-. *rjt-,** -Hit- f5i%?i*:»*7 amf Fj»irl ar» 2a Sirr-ir of t^fa?
Esrti.hi": SC— AIT if:i^ -: .f * *v vti :,i":t^Az." * f"i.: i^dwi 3ii»mr.#»^r -f -Jii* tH":^ : a
:9i»mA«%r -f "IiP- r."ul..i.i yA.r^ f r*^ .f 'iii* mA Th** : jt.*-/ a asf^mitf^ of ^'.Si* • ^»wi-
^i^sm '*r,mvi\.^j» ' '.f '^. "r./.** .^ 1.\ .ii 1 ::i r irl-i 'ii* naran^ttr ami '!riHf/;ai .-.f i-,i:iaf
•iniitni*^!t 1\v -Ju* '7"?:«% . -i»Jr r*^r»^«^n-.i-.-r* ai«*n 'a.l a tr.»5nr.ll ''.f all -i^ ai-fift
Himih^r^ V. -r.txi^iiV *^ -.'u*; -.•*'^ -.f 'iu* •r!>>. i.ii* *ijf ii ^!» otil7 >«:n: nmry
•»i»miW%r r:t r.^*'' " ■'»-.?♦■. »-!i**' -;*.♦* -n.i;-'. 7*v.»ir.- -v '^•' 'i*-. Fn-iti i:4 ii,-rr.»rii-«-7 :f.;.ir r^f
2024 AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXIOAK KIOKAFOO INDIANS.
was called and that not more than' a dozen members of the tribe were present
at the meeting that employed said Field; believes that said Field and M. J.
Bentley were the promoters of the scheme to unlawfully secure certain funds
of the tribe as fees to said Field, and that these men knew that a large ma-
jority of the tribe would oppose any such action ; the Indians are led to believe
that they will be compelled to abandon their allotments, all caused by the
influence and action of Bentley; Indians do not know who to appeal to in
time of trouble, because there are two agents over them — ^the regular United
States Indian agent, at Sac and Fox Agency, and said Bentley; thinks an
inqpector should be sent there to settle all the trouble, so that they may know
where they stand.
Exhibit L.— Affidavit of Thomas Washington, a full blood member of the tribe,
about 56 years of age; has long been familiai' with manners and usages of
tribe in the transaction of tribal business; when any business is to be consid-
ered, all the adult male members are notified to meet in council for its con-
sideration; he was not notified of a council to be held on or about December
18, 1897, or any other date to consider the employment of Field as attorney for
the tribe, and which agreed to pay him for certain legal ^ork; is a member
of the "business committee" of the tribe; does not believe there were over
a dozen members of the tribe at the said council when Field was employed;
the tribe are much discouraged by reason of rumors to the effect that they
will have to give up their homes and reside elsewhere; thinks IL J. Bentley
and W. S. Field are influencing the Indians to remove elsewhere.
Exhibit M.— Affidavit of "Long Man," a full blood member of the tribe; Is
66 years of age; is also a member of the council of the "Big Jim*' band of
the said Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians ; he was not informed of a council
to be held on or about December 13, 1887, and was not present at such council
when a contract was entered into between the tribe and W. 8. Field, an attor-
ney, in which the " Big Jim " band or any of the said tribe agreed to pay said
Field a stipulated price for certain legal work; was present, however, at a
previous meeting to consider the said subject, and said Martin J. Bentley
was present at that council, but no action was then taken ; is also certahi tiiat
only certain members of the "Big Jim" band were present at that council
when said Field was employed, and that not all of them were notifled to be
there; thinks only nine members of the band and tribe were present at said
council ; does not believe that M. J. Bentley was present at the council when
the contract was signed; is familiar with the customs and habits of tribe in
conducting business, and that it is the unvarying rule that all the voting mem-
bers of the tribe shall be notifled of the council, and that a majority of the vot-
ing members of the tribe decides any business matters, and that if a committee
of the tribe is appointed to do any certain work that committee is appointed
by a majority of all the voting members of the tribe; no general council was
called for December 13, 1807, or at any other date to consider the employment
of Field as attorney for the tribe, and that the " Big Jim " band bad no pow-
ers delegated to it by the tribe to employ the said Field; considers the whole
procH^eding irregular and void; thinks Bentley has been discouraging the In-
dians from improving their homes, intimating that they will have to move
elsewhere.
Exhibit N. — Affidavit of " Oc-que-nah-ko-the, No-ten, Ko-ke-tha and Mas-
que-ken-ock," members of the Mexican Kickapoo Indian tribe, located on their
allotments under the care of the Sac and Fox Agency, Okla. ; for more than
two years M. J. Bentley has b#»en special agent over them, before said Bentley
was their agent he held at least two councils with them endeavoring to secure
power of attoniey from them for the purpose of having their allotments can-
celed; during the fall of 1897 another council was held for the purpose of
having the dissatisfled allottees abandon their allotments and have them sold
and with the proceeds purchase cheap lands in Mexico; by Bentley's influence
several members of tribe have left their allotments and gone over to the
dissatisfled band ; have heard and believe that numerous councils have been
held with the dissatiBfled members of tribe urging them to not live on their
allotments under the promise that they will soon be removed to other lands
that they can hold in common; no aid in any manner received from Bentley
since he became a^ent for them ; Bentley telling them they would receive no
further support if they improved their farms; Bentley only has a few special
friends and but few seem to know of his plans; the Indians have l)een in tronhlo
since Bentley flrst was appointed agent over them; only wish to have the
regular Sac and Fox agent to rule over them; the tribe never agreed to th«
AFF^ntS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2025
appointment of Bentlej, or anyone else to occupy his position, nor authorized
nor agreed to pay any salary for anyone for that position ; they feel that some
i^at calamity Is about to befall them; they represent the chiefs and head-
men of the said tribe.
Exhibit O. — Affidavit of I^ewis C. Grimes; relates conversations had with
Martin J. Bentley showing that said Bentley Is engaged in the business of fer-
reting out fraudulent allotments for private speculation, a business which
would of itself be antagonistic to the interest of the Indians, and especially
showing that a person engaged in such a calling is not fitted to be agent over
the Indians for the reason that It will be to his private interest to locate as
many outsiders on allotments as possible with the understanding that at some
future time an opportimity might arise In which the trespassers could secure
good title to these lands.
Exhibit P. — Copy of the petition to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs from
the Mexican Kickapoos, being the progressive band of the tribe ; denouncing the
action of M. J. Bentley as their special agent ; are discouraged by Bentley from
improving homes where they are ; Bentley states to them that they will have to
go elsewhere to live; his petition Is signed by a large nimiber of members of
the tribe.
As further evidence in this case I refer to the petition of the Absentee Shaw-
nee Indians, dated May 16, 1898, and filed a few days later, said petition remon-
strating against the action of Martin J. Bentley, in that he grossly misrepre-
sented the facts regarding the action of the Absentee Shawnee Indians in rela-
tion to the purported employment of W. S. Field as attorney for the tribe, and
that through this misrepresentation of facts the said Field was enabled to
secure the approval of the said contract by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs
and the Secretary of the Interior, and objecting to the payment of any funds of
the tribe for the purposes indicated hi the contract purported to have been
executed.
Exhibit Q. — ^A copy of the foregoing petition is made a part of this statement
There are numerous stories afloat regarding the dealings of Assistant Special
Agent M. J. Bentley with these Indians, which should receive attention at the
hands of an inspector.
The future of these Indians, their settlement upon their allotments and the
improvement of the same as their future homes so that they may become self-
supporting, respectable citizens of the community, calls for absolute justice and
fair treatment on the part of the United States. In that interest I respectfully
request that an inspector investigate fully the situation and report thereon.
Very respectfully,
S. M. Brosius,
Agent Indian Rights Association.
Beptembeb 8, 1898.
[Bzhlbit A.— See Exhibit Q.]
[Exhibit B.]
TERRnxmr of Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, as:
Thomas Alford, being first duly sworn according to law, says:
My name is Thomas Alford; I reside in Pottawatomie County, Territory
of Oklahoma; I am a birthright member of the Absentee Shawnee tribe of
Indians under the care of United States Indian agent. Sac and Fox Agency,
Okla. ; I am a member of the " business committee," composed of seven mem-
bers of said tribe, which was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior and
approved by the said tribe. I am well informed as to the manners and
customs of the Absentee Shawnee tribes regarding the calling of councils for
the transaction of tribal business; that previous to April 26, 1808, no council
existed, appointed by the said tribe, for at least two years before that time ; that
for three years last past no authority has been delegated to any council or
committee of the tribe to employ an attorney in any capacity whatever; that
when a contract Is entered into for employment of any person to act for the
tribe it is the custom to call the members of the tribe together in open coun-
cil for consideration of the business to be transacted, and any action taken
represents the conclusion of a majority of the adult members thereof; that I
was not notified of the meeting of any council of the said tribe to consider the
appohitment of W. S. Fields, attorney, of Oklahoma City, Okla., on December
18^ 1897, or at any other time before or since, and had no knowledge ot ^aAa^
278:ia— S. Doc. 215. 60-1— vol 3 ^10
2026 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
appointment as said attorney until after tbe approval of his contract by the
Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and was not informed of the appointment of
said Fields until after a copy qf the approved contract was sent to the office
of tbe Indian agont at the said Sac and Fox Agency by the Ck)mmi88ioner of
Indian Affairs ; that I am informed and firmly believe that not one member of
tbe '* business committee " was present at any meeting of the members of the
tribe on December 13, 1897, or at any other time, to consider the employment of
said Fields as the tribal attorney ; that I believe no public notice to the tribe
was given of the meeting of the said council to consider the employment of
W. S. Fields as tittomey; that upon several occasions Martin J. Bentley,
special United States Indian agent, has represented to me that it would be
better for the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid to abandon their allotments
in Olilnhoma Territory and migrate to the West and to Mexico; that it is the
current report, and I believe founded upon tbe expressions of the said Martin
J. Bentley, that he is influencing the Indians to abandon their allotments in
Oklahoma Territory and locate elsewhere.
Thomas W. Alfobo.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 11th day of August, A. D. 18d8.
[SEAL.] Geo. L. Rose, Notary Publio.
(My commission expires June 27, 1899.)
[BxHiBn C]
Territoby or Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, as:
Walter H. Shawnee, being: first duly sworn according to law, says:
My name is Waiter H. Shawnee; I reside in Pottawatomie County, Territory
of Oklahoma; I am a birthright member of the Absentee Shawnee tribe of
Indians, under the care of United States Indian agent, Sao and Fox Agency,
Okia. ; I am a member of the '' business committee," composed of seven members
of said tribe, which was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior and ap-
proved t)y the said trit)e; I am well informed as to the manners and customs of
the Absentee Shawnee tribes regarding the calling of councils for the trans-
action of tribal business; that previous to April 2G, 1898, no council existed,
appointed by the said tribe, for at least two years before that time; that for
three years last past no authority has been delegated to any council or commit-
tee of the tribe to enii)ioy an attorney in any capacity whatever; that when
a contract in entcriHl into for employment of any person to act for the tribe
it is the custom to call the members of the tribe together in oi)en council for
the consideratiim of tlie business to be transacted, and in any action taken
represents the conclusion of a majority of the adult members thereof; that
I was not notified of the meeting of any council of the said trii>e to (H>nsider
the appointment of W. S. Fields, attorney, of Oklahoma City, Okia., on Decem-
ber 13, 1897, or at any time before or since, and had no knowledge of his ai»-
pointnicnt as said attorney until after the approval of his contract by the
Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and was not informed of the apiwintment of
said Fields until after a copy of the approved contract was sent to the offl.-e
of tbe Indian agent at the said Sac and Fox Agency by Commissioner of Indian
Affairs.
That I am informed and firmly believe that not one member of the "busi-
ness committee" was present at any nieetinj^ of tlie members of the tribe on
December 13, 1897, or at any other time to consider the emi)Ioyment of the
said Fields as the tribal attorney; that I believe no public notice to the tribe
was given of the meetlQj? of the said council to consider the employment of
W. S. Field as attorney ; that upon several occasions Martin J. Bentley, special
United States Indian agent, has repivscnttHl to mo that it would l)e better f(»r
the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid to abandon their allotments in Okla-
homa Territory and migrate to tlie West and to Mexico; that it is the ciirivnt
report, and, I believe, founded upon the expressions of the said Martin J.
Bentley, that be is influencing the Ihdians to abandon their allotments in Okla-
homa Territory and locate elsewhere.
Waltkr n. Shawnee.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 11th day of August, A. D. 1898.
[seal.] Geo. L. Rose, Notary Public
(My conuuission expires June 27, 1899.)
AITAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAJPOO INDIANS. 2027
[Exhibit D.]
Territory of Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, as:
John C. King, being first duly sworn according to law, deposes and says:
My name is John C. King ; I am a full blood member of the Absentee Shawnee
tribe of Indians located in Oklahoma Territory under the care of the Sac and
Fox Indian Agency. I am a member of what is known as the business com-
mittee of the Shawnee tribe of Indians, the said committee being composed of
seven members, having certain authority to act for the tribe, the limits of
which are well defined.
I am acquainted with Special Indian Agent Martin J. Bentley, who now
represents the United States in certain matters connected with the allotments
to the said tribe of Indians as well as the Kickapoo tribe. On several occa-
sions the said Bentley has told me that the Absentee Shawnee Indians and
the Kicking Kickapoos should be removed from this Territory and located else-
where, the inference being that it matters not where they were sent.
It is a matter of current report among all the said Indians that Special
Agent Bentley is endeavoring to have them removed from their allotments
in order that these lands may be settled by a white population. These rumors
have the effect to discourage those members of the tribes who are inclined
to settle upon their allotments and improve the same for permanent homes.
During the time Mr. Bentley has acted as special agent but few of the dis-
satisfied members of the said tribes have settled upon their allotments, his
purpose evidently being that they should not.
The said Indians are confused and embarrassed from the fact that there
are two agents In charge of them, with onHicting authority, and which is
detrimental to their interests, they not knowing which of the two to api)eal to
in case of trouble.
I am well informed as to the mode and customs of the tribe in transacting
business, it being the universal custom for the head men of the tribe to call
all the voting members together in council to consider the business of which
it is proposed to take up. The action of a majority of such council only is
binding on the tribe.
I had no notice of a council being called to meet on or about December 13,
1897, or at any time before or since, for the purpose of employing W. S. Field,
attorney, of Oklahoma City, to transact certain business for the tribe, and
the said Field has never been employed by the authority of the Absentee
Shawnee tribe to my knowledge. I am informed and fully believe that not
more than ten or twelve of the members of the Al)sentee Shawnee tribe were
present at this purported council that was clandestiuely called for the purpose
of employing the FJiid Field as the tribal attorney, and that the whole plan was
instigated and carried out by the said Field with the aid of Special Indian Agent
Bentley, with the knowledge on their part that a majority of the said tribe
would not have approved of tiie proposed action. I know that any action taken
at the said council is illegal and not binding upon the said tribe of Indians.
From all that I know of the work and transactions of said Bentley I believe
it to be highly important that an investigation of the whole transaction be
made by an Indian insi3ector, so that the interests of the tribe may bo protected
and encouragement may be given to tlie meml)ers of the tribe who desire to
continue improving their allotments, they now fearing that they will some-
time be compelled to leave their homes.
John O. Kino.
Subscribed and sworn to this 13th day of August, 1808.
[SEAL.] W. P. Dix, Notary Public,
(My commission expires March 23, 1902.)
[Exhibit E.]
Tfrritort of Oktjihoma, County of Pottawatomie, ss:
Dudley H. Shawnee, being first duly sworn according to law, says :
My name Is Dudley H. Shawnee ; I am a birtiirlght member of the Absentee
Shawnee tribe of Indians and reside in the Territory of Oklahoma; I am the
O^cm cleric of t^e Abseuteer Shawnee council, the said coimcil being elected by
2028 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
a majority of the legal members of said tribe on or about May 1, 1898; that
there was no rejailarly appointed council within the last three years elected by
the said tribe previous to the council aforesaid ; that many of the Industrious
members of the said tribe now living on their allotments have for some time been
discouraged by reason of rumors continually being circulated to the effect that
the said Absentee Shawnee Indians are at)out to \>e removed from their prest?nt
home and located outside of this Territory, and that the Indians believe that
Attorney W. S. Field, of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Special United States
Indian Agent Martin J. Bentley are in favor of said removal, and have been
using their influence to acconii)lish that end ; that (ho said Indians, believing
that the said Fields and Bentley either represent the United States Government
In this matter or are in close sympathy with them, and do not know whether to
continue the improvements already commenced on their allotments for fear of
being compelled to abandon them, their progress toward civilization is thus
defeated; that it is discouraging to the industrious meml>ers of the said tribe
to learn that the United States is extending Hupi)ort to the indolent members of
the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe while a like 8Ui)port and encouragement is
not given to those of the trilHj who have endeavored to imi)n)ve their allotments
and iKK'ome re8|>ectable citizens of the community, the said policy on the part
of the United States seeming to offer an inducement to the Indians to continue
In their shiftless, indolent life; that upon one occasion I was asked by Joseph
Billy, a member of the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe, to interi)ret a conversa-
tion he proposed having with M. J. Bentley aforesaid. During the said am-
versati<m the Inference of the language used by said Ii<Mitley was that it would
be best for the Indians to vacate their present allotments and remove to some
other locality.
Dudley H. Shawnee.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 12th day August, lSf)8.
[SEAL.1 W. P. Dix, Notary Puhlio.
(My commission expires March 23, lf)02.)
[Exhibit F.]
Tkrritoby of Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, sn:
Dudloy 11. ShnwmH', being first duly sworn according to law. says: My name
is Dudley H. Shawnee. I am a blrtlirlght member of the Absentee Shawnee
trllK* of Indians under the care of the Sac and Fox Indian ag(?nt of Oklahoma
Territ£>ry.
I am the official clerk of the council of the said Indian tribe, said council
being elected by a majority of the mcni!>ers of said trihe on or about May 1,
181)8.
I am fully conversant with the manners niid custoins of said Indians re-
garding the transaction of tribal business. When such f>nsiness Is to be con-
sidered notice is sent out by tlie chiefs or hendmen to all jidiiit male members
of the trllM* to assemble in <onini1 nnd the n<ti' n "f a majority of such council
only is ccmsidered legal and is binding upon the tribe.
I had no knowledge of a council of the said Al)s<»ntee Shawnee tribe of In-
dians that is pnri)orttKl to have \nH>n held on or alMint I)e<enil»er l.'{, 1»U7, or at
any <»ther date lH'f(»re or since at which It Is allcp-d tin* said trilie agreed to
employ and did employ W. S. Field, attoniey, of Oklahoma City, Okla., and
to pay him certain moneys Ironi the tribal funds. I have no knowledge
of any council of said trllw ever having Ixmii cjiIUmI for the purpose of ap-
pointing a connnlttet* of members of the tribe giving said committee the
autli'Mity to employ said attorney. W. S. Fh-hl. on hehnlf of the said tribe of
Indians. I did not know that what purported t«) he a contract between the
said tribe and Attorney Field was «'xe<nted until a copy of the purported
contract was s<Mit to tlie Sac and Fox Indian apMit. the contract then t>eing
approved by the (V)nnnlssloner of Indian AfTairs and the S<»cretary of the
Interior. I am lnfornie<l and fully believe that no one of the seven members
of the business committee of the trilx* had any knowli'dge of the council afore-
said that puriK>rte<l to employ said Field as attorney, although this business
comndtt«H» repres«»i»ts the Intelligent element of the trih** and acts for the tribe
in many im|>ortaut capacities. 1 believe that not mure than a dozen member*
AWTMiMs or THB MEJDCAS KicKjikFoo nawAxa 2029
W. S. Fwid as the tribii attoracf. I ui CMnlMcd tint the Mid Beetiv^ of
a f «v ■wtia^'n oT the trdte m rtoilrwtwffy mmmetA nd held with the aid
awt siq)«)««t «f W. &. F&e^ ^Ubtrntr* tcvKhcr with Special ladcaa .^emt
llartm J. BoitieT-. th^r ac the tiae wefl kiming that the ■■>iffTfj <rf the
wmftrs «<r faod trfbe of loiiL&Bef wioasld aot a«Tce to eaiplflp aaid W. S. Field
aa ?£b«cr trtbai act&ffser f*>r tik^ i)arp«(S«»» indiaited ia the porpcxttd tsmtnt^^
A pmenA s^ncd by the c«XEk!ti of clue t]r3i« has been few aided t» the CocnzLkH'
siucter »>f I»ii:ui Allairs aod the Sevrnetary of the Imttrior ahJecixBC ta the ittj-
Bcwt *>f aair fizodt «f the tribe ti<> AtD<>coe7 F>M sEider the fMrpovted ««MECrai(i.
Xfr atrioaf.wS'HlsgBieaf '^>if ^:£lis pp^rcest has ret hees lececred br the tribe
Att QiiT<siLi;^tiftik b?- ± aofr.;j«etie«t Caut>ed States ladiaa izi8f)e«tAr is desored bjf
the trijat *j€ thif Bdicter aad of aaAajr 'jcjaer Battera of Tttai auefot to the tnbe.
DcHST H. SHawacoL
Seb«iai2wd aad Twr,rsk to before lae tl^ 13^ daj cf AociBt. ]:SG6l
fsL^I W. P. IHz. JTotanr /MliBL
|Jf J >»mmBiBHOtt expcnes Mar^ii :2S„ ISCdLi
[ICnnoT 6.1
TtaBTToarr or OcLAHCiMA. Cdaaly o<f Foamt€mtomtie^ «tr
WillsajB Ts^wnt^. befBz first daij swv>til. oc <«i& sijs:
My ftamt?' i* wrUiaia J^tAwuj**?. ! Am * bcrtiBr:«&rt rawaber of the Ahwatee
ShawiMe tr:?>^ •>{: Icsliin.^ oz^i ne^^ !e in lv>crAv:it^^mie O/Vbit. Okla. ; am
i& jeais of zzit. I a^m fajnlllar wttii tbe Baanets aad cwhmbs of the aaid
Aft«i«jir»?«? 2?lLi-5rj-ti InxLarL* r-rirrlfrjr "^ •'::iIIiLr of *^jcinr"il§ for tiw- trin.'ia.-tS.tt
of basitt?«a. It l* r±^ TsnlT^rstl ^rcastrXQ wbea new bosizieas » t**/ be ^jioaa-lered
ffr a-jCify all t±rr A-i il: z>rii_>r2r§ of tbi* trZNs- b> 4J«tmbfe- ia <(>f>rti •»?iii.-il f»>r the
««-.ii»i*irrraiJ ^ ■>f -Ji^- b;i?:ije« tlLd.t L* tr> f»cLe Nrf'-j**- tiKn : that I was i*^
ftXiS^ o^ Loe sjffcecliL:^ of aoj '^cxKif of aaid trilK> to <K>tkiiider the apt^KaCBHSt
of W, if. r>t*t. an r::.^ of •'•kjihf.rrja, --itj. OSlIx. .>b I>iit^iMitN^ VL l^^fZ. or at
aaf ocbi^ tiiZijfr b*»^fo?t»- 'jt sdr^. aad bad ao kayw ledge of hss apfiocatBent as
aa>f attfirsi^ niLtil aft^r the ±pr?K>TaI of bfs <n»traet by the Uattiid States
mwshtfti-CtK*: zbo-t It is t&i»> ^nrrvcir nzaux-. and I beUeme it to be a faeC that
ManiA J. EefL:.rf. «p«et?ial UELT'^fi ifiutcs ladiaa apest. has at Tarsocs tfaaes aad
la- ^Arlfjia* wij* ■li-**-rj^zrrLz»^i zht^ .Vfi-nirati** Sbawue**" lartfaaff fracn izasiCv^wiBS
their aJt-xittaMii* *#h: apart b-j th**- ra:tr»i Stati» f->r their one eb the Territ«j«y of
Ols^^i^'MiA, ibrr JiCesiri-'iO tfH:io:x ihAZ tzg^ skUl IiklLutt oiajr fiett£e *>a lands ifHa^sMle
of titti Tiftrrltr.sy : tiias ■* B:^ J jd." i >:ktijer of the btuwl •if tJSi*^ aforesaid tribe
of fad fans, after hh^ mtnm fr»>m Was^^ncrtu-a. D. C dsrizi^ the fwkst winter.
a&U Bie c^t tta^ siLri B^ni^ey wi« 4>pc)*>lD.D»«i bj tf»> Uikited States to dc^tribate
tbe- wazi'jC:^. mil«^. «Ki!. *.!> «a>i EnriLaiL<w so tiaac tfKy misht kare their allot-
BiutQcts aiad hociiie» hgre ajhd s«> t»> zhat weKera «!i[r«iitry.
WaxiAjf SHAwaaK |h£s x aarlci.
Atd!^:
Geo. L. Rrjsm^
Sob® r.u»r*I xijI r^'^r^. !j> bt^f'-jc*?- m*?- this 11th day of Ao^ist. A, D. ISOS.
[aCkiL.: Geol L. Boca» 3'o<anF i^iti^ie.
• My tfjotm :^rjg ex^Knes JizEbe 27, I^GlSt^
[EXBIKT H.]
EitfAsiav- *>-.'2^ ±r>t -i^j ««'»->cxl af!r!ordiagr to law. says:
My ■Et.sMr U EIie^-^ijuiL aiirl z'rLir i ^jdi fnH-iHo-Mi i ifbrr of the Absimtte
Sha-«Tii» tr. ir of [z*iL;ir*. rvrs..L'::ii aii '^lAOr.mA T^rrttf-.ry, saiier the o-srv- of
the Sae aikl r>>x Ax-zsj.j. I .i.1. fa:::..^;^r vltb zbtt *:v»toai^ and nsa^es of the
nib* BEL rtixzl/^Ak tt> tbe tr:uj{$a«.^>a of tzibal b«ifiw> That nhtm a^y nev
2022 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
the calling of the said council was had by the tribe ; that so far as they are
Informed only nine or ten members of the tribe were present when the pur-
ported contract was executed between the tribe and W. S. Field; that the\r
would have been opposed to the said action on the part of the tribe; that
no tribal business is conducted of importance without first giving notice of
a general council to consider the same, and that a majority of such general
council Is required to determine such action as will be binding upon the tribe,
this having been the manner and custom of conducting tribal business for
many years ; that but a small minority of the voting members of the tribe signed
the said contract, and that it is altogether irregular and therefore void; that
they had no knowledge of the existence of such a contract until a copy of the
same, approved by the CJommlssloner of Indian Affairs and the Secretary of
the Interior, was filed In the office of the United States Indian agent at the
Sac and Fox Agency, Okla.
The affidavits herewith filed show that five out of seven members of the
" business committee " of the tribe had no knowledge of the council in which
it is claimed that the said contract was executed. The official clerk of the
council of the said tribe also states that he had no notice of the calling or
assembling of any council on December 13, 1897, or at any other time, for the
purpose indicated In the said contract
If upon Investigation It Is found that the statements made herein regard-
ing the execution of the purported contract with W. S. Field and the accompa-
nyinjf certificate executed by said Bentley are In the main correct, no proper
course presents Itself other than the removal of the said Bentley as assistant
special United States Indian agent.
A synopsis of the papers filed herewith Is as follows :
Exhibit A. — Copy of purported contract with W. S. Field, containing copy
of certificate of Martin J. Bentley. (See Exhibit Q.)
Exhibit B. — Affidavit of Thomas W. Alford, member of said tribe, claiming
he had no knowledge of the purported council at which the said Field was
employed on the 13th day of Deceml)er, 1807, or at any other time ; that he Is
familiar with the custom of tribe In transacting business, and that the pro-
ceedings are not regular wherein said Field was employed as attoniey; that
he Is a member of the " business committee " of the said tribe ; that he firmly be-
lieves that not one member of the "business committee" had any knowledge
of or was present at the purported council aforesaid. In this connection I
wish to add that Mr. Alford is a finely educated man, and was assistant to
the surveyor and surveyed the lands which are now Included In the allotments
to the tribes of Indians herein mentioned. Mr. Alford further states that
M. J. Bentley has stated to him that It would be better for the said Indians to
abandon their allotments and migrate to the West and to Mexico.
Exhibit C— Affidavit of Walter H. Shawnee, In which he states that he
is a member of tribe, also a member of the "business committee" of the
tribe; Is well Informed as to the customs of the tribe In the transaction of
business; that the custom is to call a general council; that no council was
called to consider the employment of said Field as attoniey for the tribe;
that he believes that not one member of the " business committee " was pres-
ent at the said council nor knew of It having been held until long afterwards;
that M. J. Bentley has told him on several occasions that it would be better
for the said Absentee Shawnee Indians to abandon their allotmontH and remove
somewhere else; that M. J. Bentley Is trying to Induce the said Indians to re-
move elsewhere.
Exhibit D. — Affidavit of John C. King, a member of the tribe, a member of
the "business committee; " that Bentley has told him that these Indians should
be removed from their present allotments, and that it mattered not wh(»re
they were moved to; these statements dlst'ounigc the Indians who want to
work and Improve their homes; that the Indians are confus<»d and embar-
rassed and do not know what to do; had no notice of a council for the pur-
pose of considering the eniployinont of Field as attorney for the tribe; Is con-
versant with the manner and custom of the tribe in transacting business, and
that the employment of Field was altogether Irregular, as It was not done in
open council ; that the whole plan was inHtigated and carried out by Field,
with the assistance of M. J. Bentley, with the knowledge on their part that the
tribe would not agnH» to the wune if they liad an ojiportunity to vote and ex-
press their views; believes it to be highly important that an investigation bo
made of the whole matter for the Interests of the tribe.
MFTMOM or THK mwnTJkis mscKMFOO nmjunL 302S
I 4eB% <f ifce ifcwfiiiii gtowjiBig <iwgS3: city ifer "■lilii'^i ■ smkav «t
Oe tribe jffie 4QagpaEi9eifl tn^aiac If. J. EtassS^T m vob^ feos 3B£fw^ t^ iunne
^iraaiio0sm %^ ^Kout ^^iymt !*«• ti^ie: tJ3 lift- fc*xL- svsndieY ur* airtc::&*d 4€ tfc*
ts*ibir ^ ifhc- OaiiixLjfiK<;a)ftfr i^ Ixidax ATaT^ >x»^tfC «ik1i « }irwKi»^JXt^ «3kfl 3»»
4^ jnesTF ^ «^: «c7f tkr! uriKsi aorr ik-v ViHiixiMflF if «» lie fumOderjifl 5^7 'ite
trikie «!!: Tiff* aAtih isaiiWav ime sMiti£»fd t'^ «LiiK-iidde zb ^^ksi <«>iiik!Ij f ^r rtf ^i^
tflflw-rShqa: lie v^sf ski 3K<tfJM 4tf tbe %iiiif^ *»• fncofdAer iflK- jc^^Kcirtzufsci «ir
RfSffl «f jcri'.irzife?' f^r l!be rs^^z iC€ ikcn kik*^*ar ^^ iter ^adsnaKiE' ^ tkre ■fiuL.Txaet
ODCS a •?!f99' -m-am msa& t? i^ Tsricd SOLi^f Ijkfiiist J^fot: xr fia<^ msA F<«s Jtpoirr.
lanp jgtes it traif ^x.^fLnsiad : iojf Reozt^j^?- if ^sKAncacs^s^ 'ftie firf^amf tr'^at 'sm-
ypiwOBg liifcr £cJ3»: «bjf tIos ^ Bj^ Jizel" « jfa^er ^ the tead of tte* A^fiw!i:rj9f
fifanmeie trfkie m6« Sun, «fwr ic» 7»-nirt fT'.m. Ws^ALssrvLm. D- C- -Ai*!' j**
vinKs- 9^i<E?w' Bos J^a iot^ fij^iessr kqz*^ ir>^!!»*L&^ i^o:: E&esrtSe?- vaei a^i^iwxs^ ^ Tfhe
2ii&eii!F nJ^^ j^srw- tii*-ir ilkdnear:* ioii iiionef arf p^ u tiie ir*«6Erx 'nmirtjT-
jfisv^Kse TrlW- '.«f lutiioif : J* Urn ar ▼"-rl -laie '.Tifr_'.ai» airf TraTTTt**r» <^ tii^ «tji
JBKE7 nmK«» "r^a-t lifr Trlt^ v«:«ii>4 t*^ wat:;i*Ci*-i t^* ^sa-nt* tbe^r it-.auef tati ^
44jae'wibie?»- v.- Irr* eu^ tl»»- nnii':»rf tr*- '<"*?r7 «* «»<»TrT>^Ty- ifMjj^n-^F liiikL*! M_ J-
trite-: ▼^tf f'.r lutiT 7*«^> i tj^^*j^ \f "^iP: "" Bj^ Jol * 'mzA *^ '±f^ *ttii
IxCiia^ : hh* ^"**^rjvi i.if alj'.ranfran. i* twiii^ijr i-i* ^-^ifrgi •-'. w^'.kL iluI liji
tiiiiF J* it •.5;i^'jf;rti:a. v. •li*- -P^itinef '.<f 'a»»- * B^ JiiL " \ftjA. ifr 4:«*-f 2j'.<! r»f »*L-i7
wnt!^ XL ittmi'.oqr irr:^. Bxr T:zi. : ht.*^ ZiSk^t «er*riL: tin*** irjti 31. J, SfeLO*?-.
larf 5i»!ir:>7- Sitf tJ-vtT-f -..ji 1.tl ^iz "^ V-ltjA ^jkTj» ^^t*A "^ liMtst2s
IV rKni'.*^* 'T^m. ""jf^ Z^rrv-.rrj 'f. rt-ijii^trnt "TfLi^ **r*t'*t i^f urij'i lit:* **m*!1 v.- di*'
%?■ tin*- triv^- Eiit •iiit' i,. ^i^ tttT^i ii»*aii:»*^rf tr*: ir'Xjfei ^'^ awRai^> f«r "the
"Su^ -r-xjtsT "vlsf: ttM-.^z^t *i^ '5 iii»r: -r-h* ii'.«! is.r-ii^t .if t 'jtniSjr -.'f 'r^zru'C t*
fir "rlu^ trTi*^ i»^ iibl i»: tzi-.^v^fic*- '.«f i.:f I'l^r-nrtn**!!.': f ■:?• lutixj ir*-iiif tf*^*?"-
r^^siite?' '.< *:iJ^ Iij'. .1-' ;♦'•»'•' "* t** .«f *:i»*r ♦ttj. 'rl:*^ : ^^i*: i u^mti^r '.•f tb*- ** :»irC-
2iie» ^-.oi!!!- ~**' ' -Y 'Hi* •r:»»- i* f.tn .. ,ir "r-ri "tl**- s^szru^ t2kt '•hwi'iiil -:*! '5'.»nar
iii»nui«*r> ^-. 'rtD*:*'.!*'' -:iM- *.'-j*^ 'i***^ .** *ii»- t:V t.ii-f li^f jf tSie :tiJ7 >«:i-' ▼-rj
•<!JKiiitit!r 1^ I^f'" ' •»''*-, ^iJ^ '-L»i i^'ii ••• "li**"." X ''' ^ r't'^if n* *:'~.«ni*7' f:»r "tiie
2024 A7FAIB8 OF THB MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO mDIANS.
was called and that not more than' a dozen members of the tribe were present
at the meeting that employed said Field; believes that said Field and IL J.
Bentley were the promoters of the scheme to unlawfully secure certain funds
of the tribe as fees to said Field, and that these men knew that a large ma-
jority of the tribe would oppose any such action ; the Indians are led to believe
that they will be compelled to abandon their allotments, all caused by the
influence and action of Bentley; Indians do not know who to appeal to in
time of trouble, because there are two agents over them — the regular United
States Indian agent, at Sac and Fox Agency, and said Bentley; thinks an
iniq>ector should be sent there to settle all the trouble, so that they may know
where they stand.
Exhibit L. — Affidavit of Thomas Washington, a full blood member of the tribe»
about 56 years of age; has long been famlliai' with manners and usages of
tribe in the transaction of tribal business; when any business is to be consid-
ered, all the adult male members are notified to meet in council for its con-
sideration; he was not notified of a council to be held on or about December
18, 1897, or any other date to consider the employment of Field as attorney for
the tribe, and which agreed to pay him for certain legal Work; is a member
of the ''business committee*' of the tribe; does not believe there were over
a dozen members of the tribe at the said council when Field was employed;
the tribe are much discouraged by reason of rumors to the effect tliat they
will have to give up their homes and reside elsewhere; thinks H. J. Bentley
and W. S. Field are influencing the Indians to remove elsewhere.
Exhibit M.— Affidavit of "Long Man," a full blood member of the tribe; Is
56 years of age; is also a member of the council of the "Big Jim" band of
the said Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians; he was not informed of a council
to be held on or about December 13, 1897, and was not present at such council
when a contract was entered into between the tribe and W. S. Field, an attor-
ney, in which the " Big Jim " band or any of the said tribe agreed to pay said
Field a stipulated price for certain legal work; was present, however, at a
previous meeting to consider the said subject, and said Martin J. Bentley
was present at that council, but no action was then taken ; is also certain tiiat
only certain members of the " Big Jim " band were present at that council
when said Field was employed, and that not all of them were notified to be
there; thinks only nine members of the band and tribe were present at said
council ; does not believe that M. J. Bentley was present at the council when
the contract was signed; is familiar with the customs and habits of tribe In
conducting business, and that it is the unvarying rule that all the voting mem-
bers of the tribe shall be notified of the council, and that a majority of the vot-
ing members of the tribe decides any business matters, and that if a committee
of the tribe is appointed to do any certain work that committee is appointed
by a majority of all the voting members of the tribe; no general council was
called for December 13, 1897, or at any other date to consider the employment
of Field as attorney for the tribe, and that the " Big Jim '' band had no pow-
ers delegated to it by the tribe to employ the said Field; considers the whole
proceeding irregular and void; thinks Bentley has been discouraging the In-
dians from improving their homes, intimating that they will have to move
elsewhere.
Exhibit N.— Affidavit of " Oc-que-nah-ko-the, No-ten, Ko-ke-tha and Mas-
que-ken-ock," memi>ers of the Mexican Kickapoo Indian tribe, located on their
allotments under ttie care of the Sac and Fox Agency, Okla. ; for more than
two years M. J. Bentley has b4*en special agent over them, before said Bentley
was their agent be held at least two councils with them endeavoring to secure
power of attorney from them for the purpose of having their allotments can-
celed; during the fall of 1897 another council was held for the purpose of
having the dissatisfied allottees abandon their allotments and have them sold
and with the proceeds purchase cheap lands in Mexico; by Bentley's influence
several menii>er8 of tribe have left their allotments and gone over to the
dissatlsfled band ; have heard and believe that numerous councils have been
held with the dissatisfied members of tribe urging them to not live on their
allotments under the promise that they will soon be removed to other lands
tiat they can hold in conmion ; no aid in any manner re<eived from Bentley
since he became agent for them ; Bentloy telling them they would re<*eive no
further support if they improved their farms; Bentley only has a few special
friends and but few seem to know of his plans; the Indians have l>een In trouble
since Bentley first was appointed agent over them; only wish to have the
regular Sac and Fox agent to rule over them; the tribe never agreed to th«
AWTAMmS or THK imiCAlf KKTKAFOO On^AX^. 9C»25
a«r wscivtfi » ptty «3if jala^r f<e «X7 ".««• f^c i^*i jr'.'firL*-.G; : ii»*?- f*«dl -ia.-: «)r<Qae
fmxT*- tai**- zm ^.^^^rr^rnsLzj Hffrttf *r-«r 2a wtj-.i 1:11*- trw;aL«Herfr -^•.*ij»i «Jt^BPt
jiir-.«r»:.n-jitr ii»iif** wk«v- T2»*7 tr*-: R*a.t*eT f:u.je* *'.' *-±jr*iL zzxtz zzttj ^r-. Iiit^ t^^
msisi^d 1^ -it'.i*- rtsaLTiJUf 1^ t^.-Lii-m <:€ iSit A-:#f*eL-.;*i* Mji-snttft Isc-.LZi* iz. r^i^
"fen t!fer:»H2± tij* nafr»»;i!r»**«yLii.tk«i «tf Ifc/'a *.i**r fctJti Tj^jZ irt.* ^^!i.tA.,***l ti»
liftr irBifc f'.c- Tilt p(!:3i«&a» luiitaswl zt tijfr -tK.^Lrnk^ yzr;*^.^jA *.;• iit-r* t*»«s
Ti»»«»- tr^ zrzsj'^-r^ 9Pj.*rv9 a.* .*• T»!riLr5-.-x iii»r 6*g^T;rf c^ A.*** i*^.ir:: >r:»*?i-iiJ
Affsrr ML. J- ISi'^rL**?' -P^rA ^i»>«: li*=l;Liii^ -wlj'ji *»ii:«sjd r*?i*-:T* tT^.-c.-iji-.'L t: tlie
:ai!j>r«n-*aBH3ta <-^ tit^ ♦4t:iLi*' le? •'ji»^2T fmr*- b-cin*-* sc" 'Jtit: -i»»7- zsjxj V*^»zii' **hlf-
« lit Bi:->^:t%.
Aprmi Iii4lks% Bifi^U J.fcfx*c:#,^.
ggyrmffx %. l*fi^
lai^^idtf :ni-S^ tii*r '!ij* i*f TTi^-.^f isu;-.^ Ii^c/.t^ ir^^^ i%iv i-n: F i .\r-o-T.
l4ir z±T*it :-rar* ..i.< ;aL.*c i«. Lir-±i:T.TT 10.^^ ifr^s, de>:?:ii*t»i i'-.^ jinj ?«;r:i:, •_ ^c
-^i«L t 'r.r-rL--! i» ^-^rti 'i;.^.- '.-: ^- z^'y^-^it^^z A tzj j*=-r^-iL -.:■ ihiZ ^.T Tie
tS iW *J'.11l^r.t^t'^ r_ -«f -^^ b-*Jl»^*«». 1. l^ VThZlHi Z--L llit IJLJ i -J c --Lx.*ia
2026 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
appointment as said attorney until after tbe approval of his contract by the
Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and was not informed of the appointment of
said Fields until after a copy Qf the approved contract was sent to the office
of tbe Indian ix^vnt at the said Sac and Fox Agency by the Ck)mml8sioner of
Indian Affairs ; that I am Informed and firmly believe that not one member of
the "business committee" was present at any meeting of the members of the
tribe on December 13, 1897, or at any other time, to consider the employment of
said Fields as the tribal attorney; that I believe no public notice to the tribe
was given of the meeting of the said council to consider the employment of
W. S. Fields as tittomey; that upon several occasions Martin J. Bentley,
special United States Indian agent, has represented to me that It would be
better for the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid to abandon their allotments
in Olilnhoma Territory and migrate to the West and to Mexico; that it is the
current report, and I believe founded upon the expressions of the said Martin
J. Beutley, that he is influencing the Indians to abandon their allotments in
Oklahoma Territory and locate elsewhere.
Thomas W. Alford.
Subs<Tibed and sworn to before me this 11th day of August, A. D. 1898.
[SEAL.] Geo. L. Rose, Notary Public.
(My commission expires June 27, 1899.)
[Exhibit C]
Territory of Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, 88:
Walter H. Shawnee, being: first duly sworn according to law, says:
My name Is Walter H. Shawnee; I reside in Pottawatomie County, Territory
of Oltlahoma; I am a birthright member of the Absentee Shawnee tribe of
Indians, under the care of United States Indian agent. Sac and Fox Agency,
Okla. ; I am a member of the " business committee," composed of seven members
of said tribe, which was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior and ap-
proved l>y the said tribe; I am well inforniod as to the manners and customs of
the Absentee Shawnee tribes regarding the calling of councils for the trans-
action of tribal business; that previous to April 20, 1808, no council existed,
appointed by the said tribe, for at least two years before that time; that for
three years last past no authority has been delegated to any council or commit-
tee of tin? tribe to employ an attorney in any capacity whatever; that when
a contract is entered into for enipioyincnt of any porscm to act for the tribe
it is the custom to call the members of tlie tribe together In open council for
the consideration of the business to be transacted, and In any action taken
represents the conclusion of a majority of the adult members tliereof; that
I was not notified of the meeting of any councli of the said tribe to consider
the appointment of W. S. Fields, attorney, of Oklahoma City, Okla., on Decem-
ber V,i, 1897, or at any time before or since, and had no kuowjedj^e of his a|»-
pointjncnt as said attorney until after the approval of his contract by the
ComniiKsloner of Indian Affairs, and was not informed of the appointment of
said Fields until after a copy of the approved contract was sent to the office
of the Indian agent at the said Sac and Fox Agency by CommlKsioner of Indian
Affairs.
That I am informed and firmly believe that not one member of the "busi-
ness committee" was present at any meeting of tlie meml)ers of the tribe on
December 13, 1897, or at any other time to consider the emi)ioyment of the
said Fields as the tribal attorney; that I believe no public notice to the tribe
was given of the meeting of the said council to consider the employment of
W. S. Field as attorney ; that upon several occasions Martin J. Bentley, special
United States Indian agent, has represented to nie that it would i)e better for
the Absentee Shawnee Indians aforesaid to abandon their allotments In Okla-
homa Territory and migrate to tiie West and to Mexico; that it Is the current
report, and, I b(?ileve, founded ui)on tlie exi)resslon8 of the said Martin J.
Bentley, that he is influencing the Ihdians to abandon their allotments in Okla-
homa Territory and locate elsewhere.
Waltf.r II. Sfiawnkb.
SubscrilMMl and sworn to Ix'fore me this 11th day of August, A. D. 1898.
[seal.] Geo. L. Hose, Notary Public
(My commission expires June 27, 1899.)
AWWASaS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO rSUlASS, 2027
[Enrrarr D,]
J*>hn' C Kni^- V:ii2r 5r«t '!t^7 5wo«n 2^:*^- r^fiTi^ iff law. 4*po<»* awl sfyf :
trf^.e ^A lz.i\liTj^. iTi^rxtsA m. OKi:Libr.-ma Terrfi:or7 srbrier tlse <^r& of tte ?fae aod
*e^<^i rr--'-r/-'-.^r*. hr'^-in^ ^:^rpjiin :iT:^hi>rtt7 rt> art tfM d» tr:t/ie, ?!i*=r Irmrta of
f 21Q i/:n'-i,i:n'!i^i ^rh j^'^^-ia:! In<!L-in Ar-^t M:srti2k J. R^-rl-rj. who o^'w
i^wnt««iftfit3i till* CQ-Itf^i J'*-**^** ^ "^nrrrr.^I'n ^:La:I:r^^^^1S o^;'?iae<-tfr*l wtiiii ttuh stPy-KTii^-'TiZs
?••' -?i»* <fi&^ trifce '^;f !n-!'-*r^* *< w^ll as r.h.- KViap«» tribes On «>ij--m! ►■-'V-a-
*T> !>« "h*^ «ai«^ B^cti»^7 fet- ti^M m^ ^har ---ie Al^a^i^ti^ S!tawT»^«? ru'l'i"!.-* aiad
wtii^rT'*-. thfr lnfrr^^n!r;i«r !>rr!ii4? tliat ft matters avt «rh)er"^ tfijey Tr^-r-r' *rwrr.
It fa * m^rtfrr «>f •^■rrrT^^f. rep#>ft asK-ti^ 2JI tae snl-I In»il;tn» tLac ?fp»*"i^
A2F^* E»=^rJi*T L* «*r.*--5j:^^T.-.^:iv^ t& !iiSTA tSu(»ta ri^Tn:T^ firm tiheir aLU'OtiQ-rrCf
Lii r>rif=-T zhAt thi'r^'f: htTLff^^ m^j t0t «>frtt&»»'f lyy 2 w!i^"- j>"^''":!'5":i<^i. YhjPffO: nra'-.-rs
fettT*- tlii»- *^*<-!! ?f> *Ji:*fT'?Tr-*'rfe' ti>^.'*<? ci^mben ^yt ch^ tri^*??* w!3)r> ant ci».-fm#^
lf> *<^tt!e t:^;''.'C tlirtiT i!. r-i^'eo.ts and Imptryve tl«' «anie f-vr :'»^nnAiu^t !rjCi»t^_
«iEr.-*i5«*»1 mrrin'r.'^rs of tilts' aai^j trl,*es har^ *<^r.-i«r»l G5,r.;fi tbefr aI!'jCn>^i3. his
T!» said lEalLiiM are- ^-ofTEa^ anti ►-c„fK>rnm*»-'^ frrjtn tis** fart tiuit tis*»Tte
ar% rw^> a^ectrs La cfc:ar?% 'jf titem, wit^ ••■ •;.:!:.-^.nx an.th* rltj. aii*i wELl.-fe es
I .111 wfrti mforrriM as to this* mfode acL.1 '-TI«r^-^:u' 'vf r!i»^ rr^lv^ tn rr^rt.*:5v-'em^
6«ii»i:v.-r*«w ;• ^ir'n^r *i>- LinlTe'r'al ^rTL^tf-.-cn f*.r "h*^ ^a-i m^n ^jf th#> rr.b»^ tr> ^^IJ
an tte 1'-.'Itjz ZL.t^t:.^:t^'T^ z-ri^^ztf^r In. '':t>rLni;:I to ''r^-r::*M«-'rr "&»e 'r-rL-ic^fe?*;* ►>f ^Ll^'iik
bcEfiliu? on "ii** trfb-^--
I ii,id a--.' ns- -:.:i5r of a ct^soeil beoig «!al]ied to BK«t oa or alirj^ist J^rihrnher IX
ly^f:. or at in- "-::i'*=r !>ef'>ri»- or stiif'*, for tbe parp»j0e of «mp*05iB^ W, S, FmM.
attr.rr^y^ '' ^ *'vc:.i:> :i-a City. t/> traiL^art ciertala bcsr:n.^-:#» for tin*' tr:b»=-. aad
tfe*- fa:d Fl»H.l ':.;>* :i<*^*r b««n €Barji&f>y*d by tine a^r^h^^.-rtty of ihfi: Xfmmti^
Sfcawu»>^ trLI>=r ry^ ::.7 inv/wL*^:!'**- I am fn:f..'rTn^l ;5ri»-i fTiIij h^hh-^^ tMt Efcot
asboc* tii;i:a tii^!! «or "■^•^^t*- <-,.f rj-i-- r:ii>ra'P»'-T* *>f zhf- Ar>»*^ri".r^ j^hsawn-***' ^r:"?j»^ w«k^
pcf>fS*-i\z at "ii:* p^'ir;*- r--'I ■' v.nr-:i 'Z:>- >.>* •■-.in^lr-^T.r.t^ly ^-^y^ f*^r tfiir prrrp'^'^?'
of (SrDip^loylr.^ "r.^ *:: M f\-.'*l .!-• "h»^ "/ '-<\'. A" i^.-j- an«l •ita*: tbe Tsbf'-t**- pCan waj
2a:ftl:rati5d ail'-! ' -at: y^l '■■.■•n.t hr tfei^ *a.i*l F>14 wi^'i c!si^ a>l '>f jf;j»?3"rLal Indira AsKSii
B«itl«y. w:tii tij»> iXv.-x->-'r»J- ^n r^^ir j-^rt tiiat a m^ij^vr^ of tfn^ »tiLfi tribe
vovild Bot !i:iT-> ;ipr.^-,T-,i . . :' -:i.;- '. -. p'--t-«i A-^-ti- o. I kTr^vw tiiat any a.-.-tl'-.Q taken
nt tlK aaM ^^/nzif':-.! ;« ii^.^ici: ;>:iti r.'.t &-:Ttrl :Ti:r rr^"'.'« tfe«^ «»:d rrf>>e *>f Inri'^-ta*.
Tv^AiSk ail tlLit I 'rr.^:-^ '• f ".iirr w-ofx in»l tr^ia.-^'af.'tiML* ''.f iac4 fe^tl^ey I tjeii*-^**
It tf> 8^ Lljr;.../ !.T-;'« rtant ".ii.it an l:^''^r;2atI«.rQ <-f tht*- ^h'-I*r ^nr.>.v-^/ rt h»r
mAiir^ b-j an I:i»i;.iJi .:i.-r^ tr r. **> that th- i-n:-"---*rji .-.f -n*^ tr--^ Tt-ir Ny p-^r -**- r-^
'^;.G-:a'^ :r2.;:'r'j^_r.j: -..■•.- ^ .i.. ■„^i.t.-. t^y at>^ f^ir^ii^ that thiey wlil sryoa*?:-
jf^j««rfbi^ i:it"! «^':m t^^ t^:* I-itb. day of A-i^r^ii*^. !^^**.
I>sll»ey H- >:'i----^^.'^. '•^'•■--- ::r*t *!ily *-^'>rn. ;.i'''f^rr^!--r to- la-w. *;i7*:
3fy ni!t:u»rr f* I/'i.:.-^ Ft. >'-..■»— -.^: ! am a t/'r-^^r ^•:^: iiji^-ciiVrir of th»r- Aly^nti^
gfcsfcwa**# zrlA=' of Ir.'-' •.- ."^'-^ :•--•:■ Irr en tfi»^ T«^rri". .ry of r^tlaJk:cLa : I a:xi r.h«
sdfeiaii *>tie:7l£ <fi ihK A^rr^i^iri^ 2s:^-^ Liice ctfviiwdl, tike iat^ eb^sa^iS l^ios eieeted b^
2028 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
a majority of the legal members of said tribe on or about May 1, 1898; that
there was no regularly appointed council within the last three years elected by
the said tribe previous to the council aforesaid ; that many of the industrious
members of the said tribe now living on their allotments have for some time been
discouraged by reason of rumors continually being circulated to the effect that
the said Absentee Shawnee Indians are about to be removed from their present
home and located outside of this Territory, and that the Indians believe that
Attorney W. S. Field, of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Special United States
Indian Agent Martin J. Bentley are In favor of said removal, and have been
using their influence to accomplish that end ; that the said Indians, believing
that the said Fields and Bentley either represent the United States Government
in this matter or are In close sympathy with them, and do not know whether to
continue the Improvements already commenced on their allotments for fear of
being compelled to abandon them, their progress toward civilization Is thus
defeated; that it Is discouraging to the industrious members of the said tribe
to learn that the United States is extending support to the indolent members of
the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe while a like support and encouragement Is
not given to those of the tribe who have endeavored to improve their allotments
and become respectable citizens of the cou)nmnlty, the said policy on the part
of the United States seeming to offer an inducement to the Indians to continue
In their shiftless, Indolent life; that upon one occasion I was asked by Joseph
Billy, a member of the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe, to Interpret a conversa-
tion he proposed having with M. J. Bentley aforesjiM. During the said con-
versation the inference of the language used by said Bentley was that it would
be best for the Indians to vacate their present allotments and remove to some
other locality.
Dudley H. Shawnee.
Subscribed and s\^'orn to before me this 12th day August. 1808.
[SEAL.] W. p. Dix, Notary PuhHo.
(My commission expires March 23, 1902.)
[Exhibit F.]
Territory of Oklahoma, County of Pottawatomie, ss:
Dudley H. Shawnee, being first duly sworn a(<'nrdlng to law, says: My name
is Dudley H. Shawnee. I am a birthright member of the Absentee Shawnee
tribe of Indians under the care of the Sac and Fox Indian agent of Oklahoma
Territory.
I am the official clerk of the council of the said Indian tribe, said council
being elected by a majority of the members of said tril>o on or about May 1,
181)8.
I am fully conversant with the manners and cnstonis of said Indians re-
garding the transaction of tribal business. Wlien such f)usin«'ss Is to be con-
sidered notice is sent out by tlie chiefs or headiiH'u to all adult male meml)er8
of the tribe to assemble in coun'Ml and the acti'ii '^f a majority of such council
only is considered legal and is binding upon the trit)e.
I had no knowledge of a council of the said Absentee Shawnee tribe of In-
dians that is puriK)rted to have been lield on or alK)nt l)<MvnilH'r l.i. If^T, or at
any other date before or since at which it is alleged the siUd tribe agreed to
employ and did employ W. S. Field, attorney, of Oklahoma Cit>', Okla., and
to pay him certain moneys from the tribal funds. I have no knowledge
of any council of said tribe ever having l)een calle<i for (he purpose of ap-
pointing a conmiittee of members of the tribe giving si\id committee the
authority to emi)loy said attorney. W. ,s. Field, on Ixlialf of the said tribe of
Indians. I did not know that what purportwl to he a contract between the
said tribe and Attorney Field was exe<Mited until a copy <»f the purported
contract was sent to the Sac and Fox Indian agent, tlie (X)ntract then being
approved by the Commissioner of Intlian AfTaiis and the Secretary of the
Interior. I am informed and fully believe that no one of the seven membei*s
of the business committee of the tribe had any knowh'dge of the council afore-
said that puri)orte<l to employ said Field as attorney, although this business
committcM? represents the int<'lligent element of the tribe and acts for the tribe
in many important capacities. X believe that not more than a dozen member*
AVFAIBB or THB MEJOCAS WECJUkFOO ISMASTSw 20S9
were iwtJul at Or ynwliJ co^Kfl-wUek aynd m» 9vufitPf
W. & FLcid as the tri£ai ansnoT. I aai camlBttd tint the Mid aMceJamii, of
a f t^w iMSBlKn or the tra» «ma rtaMdeiiiiMlj arrugjed aad held with the aid
aiifl soiifs^jn «f W. &. Fari^ attiJ€BC9'i> tcvKhcr with Special ladcaa .^emt
llartiii J. BoitieT-. th^r ac the tlse wefl kiming that the ■■>iffTfj <&€ the
▼4C«^f? of »M tnbe of Iiuii^ju wvniLd aot a^grce to eaiplflp aaid W. & Field
as thiKr trt2»I atti>ffse7' f«>r che parp««i*»s indkated im the porpcxttd eontrat^
A prt>ce!ic scaed by- the cixm»!ii of the trfbe has bees few aided to the Oomrii^
£*jcu^ of iailiaik ACalrs aivi the Se«^r«tary of clie^ ImttTior ahfrrrfai: to the ittj-
■Ee&n ••>f laj f Qndtt of the tribe m Attocrwr F>{d sndcr the pvported crjcrrar!!.
Xir, 2f':%n»:'v^ht»fksaat^:at of nMs po>oe!§t Ekas jvt hees lecetred by the trftcu
An aiT4«tiz:fctKa 07^ ± •%ai;)«^te9t Uaft<»d States ladfaa oupiwtAr Is d»cz«d bjf
the uTLde of this sianjM- aad of aaaajr *>ti3er Biatiecs of Tital ouusnst to the tnfecu
DcHar H. Bmam
SQ£M3>?ii&«d ftjid FJrora to b^sfoce ae tMs i;StlL daj of Aiapait^ ISGSl
[«.&£.: W. P. IHz. JTotfanr /MliB.
|Jf J 'aynmLiffaott expires liarcii 2S; ISfJS,}
lExmwTr 6.1
TkasTToarr or O^LAJKmA, Commiw o^ Ff*itmtttmtomtie, m:
WUUabl :j^2ii«!-st^. beoK first dsl|r sw')r3. og octk sijs:
Mj Bami*- 'L* WLLLiani s^fcawTasi?^ ! a2i * bcrcbQrjc&t onwaher of the Abmaatme
nawae<r tr^>«>' o^ IniliAn:^ &iui ne«i *> ta Pocn^varMmie CMauj. Okla.: aa
i& j«ais of a2»r. I ±111 t±i2.'SLaLr wrt& t!ii»> auuiKts aad cvhmbs of the saad
Afiifi»ttr»»i? i^^^s^it^ rnyi^iZL* r-nriifng -&•?► •^allfitr of '^Asanki {fj^ tbe truiLsi-tS;a
<9f bc»ia«««. It f* tfie 'inrr^rsal ctHti-xii when new bcsfiiMss es to- be *!ocLftfi«ed
B> niiCifj ;Lli zzjtr A'l.i.: 2iirij.j«^ir» -:^i; tbe zrJbtt t»> jJWHSiWe ta »>5)«i rrwiDiril ^>c tfie
*n-ii:*'jLera:i>.ii •>! -.2jt^ b.:>Ji«rSR ti^Lit !* Cf> -^jcrije bt^f^'ifTe- (±1*01: that I was EhX
ib>ciiSi**i of tise EjciKla:? •:-f aaj -^Kaa^ii of said tribe to- •en-ossA**- tfie ap?)»>aitnaeBt
«ftf W, ?. r>i.l. A- .ni.^»y '^f C'^r.i.^rGia '^tj. Okl^_ ob I>^»!i«nft»^r IX I'^&C. o«- at
fliLF ocfii^r tiT.e befoTv- *'jr ssife. aad bad ao kayw ledge of hbf apfniatMmt as
aalal atiivm«*:r mmil aifr«r tiwE- :t.pr.?o>7:&I of hiis coBtmet by- the Uattfid Scates
anxiit>r:tiK»: cfLLt It is t^iK- •^iimrvfir rGEaaxor. and I beUeme ct to be a faet. that
ManuA J. B*^~^-'j. s^^nal UalD^i :!f twites ladiaa aaKfit. has at Yarwyss tows aad
in T:Lr>-,i3* w^j» ■L.'»«":T>rrriiJ**i rfie- .iJWa.iiee 5?biawT»e l^faaet firom naaptnfTBg
their aIb'>ctiiJ«Lt* «*^ ^purt b-j tiae ra:tK»t :?taD» ifoc thetr one □& the T<*rTitfj«y of
Kj^c^-ii^vQi^ dotrf JiDiziCLtL'CL beiii:? t&At tiit^ .«ti.l*l Lo^lL^kos maj fiHrtie oo. Iaiki» «->4XL»de
cf this Terr-Itj-.-ry : zh^z - Bu? Jim." i 'ur^fe^ <A the boiui ./f tJEie af*>re!«id tribe
of iBrf'ans. af-ier Eii* nHnum fr*>ai Wa:§£iiiitri:i:ci- D. C^ darnwc tfte p*«t wmo?«:
sold me tfi;i:t tie sil»l B«»iL-Jey wa* a^>Liiti?»l oy tfje Cndted States tp> distn^HiBe
tbe wazivcLHL x~L>!f. •rC<'^. *•> '>a>l rnfiI:i:L:«w «»'> tisat t&eT' Bfight feare their a£ki€'
■iKdxts ^ad ^Koes bece a.ad s^> to t£ie w^scera eoczLtET-.
WiiXLAjf Shawskk ^h5t X Baric).
At1i*?«J::
Gcflt L. B<i«<:
Safci«» r.b»Hi .xn*l f3b-.:!::i :i> bef'>r»5- me tfiif II th day of Ans^raat. A. D. 155^.
l^jki^, GiA. L. Boca» Jkcimrg I^mUieL
i Jfy <efinim '■'wVi-q expires Jcme 2T. 1^60i|
[KxHtafT H.]
EIetiG!i.j.r^ *>*-^:^ i^t -i-:/ *-wi.>nL aj^tyjcdiae to» law. says:
My asi^kie I^ £iL»^ria,:it. &]>1 'hj-^: I 2.21 f«LlIr^.^-»>d 1 1 r ■hrr of the Ahfwmtee
Sha-3ri»e cr. t^ •=:■? [r]j-i:.-ir:.*. bv?* •! zjz ^ ^ fcId.br.«iL* T«Titi:ry. ^yfiw the *:arv of
the SOii: aiiii F:-! Az^£j;7. I i^ ^AJ^^i-^r witb. 'Jie ^ro^toow' aiki lasa^es fji the
tiibo Bi re£ati»m tr> ttbt^ traj3i«aet2iA of tzibal bwifiw^ That wham a^y aev
2080 AFFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
business is to be considered a general comicil of all the adult male members of
the tribe is called and the matter fully considered; that I had no notice of any
council of the tribe being held on or about Dec»ember 13, 1897, to consider the
employment of W. S. Fields, an attorney, to transact legal business for the
tribe: that if such a council was held and the said t^ields employed, the whole
proi-eeding was irregular and of no eflfect so far as the Absentee Shawnee tribe
of Indians is concerned. I reside on my allotment in the Territory of Okla-
homa, and do not desire to leave my chosen home. I have heard many rumors
that our tribe of Indians will be forced to abandon our allotments and remove
elsewhere. These rumors are of frequent o<'currence, and they have the effect
of discouraging those of our tribe who wish to continue improving their farma.
I have heard and fully believe that the said W. S. Field, attorney, and Special
Indian Agent Martin J. Bentley are in favor of our removal elsewhere and have
been doing what they could to accomplish that end.
Elephant (bis x mark).
Witnesses :
W. P. Dix.
Thomas W. Alford.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 12th day of August, 1898.
[SEAL.] W. P. Dix, Notary Publio.
(My commission expires March 23, 1902.)
Shawnee, Okla., August 12, 1898.
I hereby certify that I understand and converse in the English and the
Absentee Shawnee Indian languages, and that I interpreted to Elephant, a mem-
ber of the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe, the foregoing instrument of writing
and believe that he fully understood the same, and that he afterwards signed
the said instrument of writing in my presence.
Thomas W. ALFoaa
I lOxH imx J,l
TEBRrroBr of Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County, 88 :
Joseph Billy, of lawful age, being first duly sworn according to law, sayfl:
My name is Joseph Billy and that I am a menihor of the Absentee tribe of
Indians located In the Territory of Oklahoma, under the care of the Sac and
Fox Indian aj;ent. I was for many years one of the leading members of the
" Big Jim Band '* of the aforesaid tril)e of Indians, hut for a short time past I
have not Imhmi recopnizcxl as a member of the said band for the reason that I
have ac<('pted my allotment and the money due me from the Unitinl States and
am sending my children to soh(X>I, all of which is in opposition to the desires
of tlie said Big Jim Band ; I have had several <'onversations at different times
with Martin J. Bentley, a spc^clal United States Indian ai:ent, who is attend-
ing to some matters in relation to said tribe. The said Bentley has always led
me to believe that It is the object of the Government of the Tnited States to have
thest* Indians remove<l from the Territory of Oklahoma, and these statements
on his part have had a discouraging effect uiK)n the Indians. In that they do
not know whether they will be permitted to hold their allotments, which some
of them now Wi-upy.
I am a birthright and full-blood member of the said tribe of Indians and am
well a<'<|nainted with the uwiges and customs of the said Indians in transact-
ing business in which tlie tribe is interest!^. When any new business is to
come ui) for consideration all the male adult memU'rs of the trilx' are calUnl
together for the consideration of the said business. There are no councllmen
or other i)er8ons that have authority from the trilw to take up any new busi-
ness without first sei'uring the consent of a maJorit>' of the voters of the
tribe; that I was not notified of the calling of any council of the trll)e to con-
sider the appointment of W. S. Field, an attorney of Oklahoma Clt>', Okla..
on December i:5. 1807, or at any other time before or since, and had no knowl-
edge of his api)ointinent for many weeks thereafter. I believe there were not
over a dozen members of the said Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians who bad
any knowledge of the contract enterinl into between the said tribe and the said
W. S. Field, attorney. whcn'l>y he was to nv-eive certain sums of nionev fn>m
the funds of the said tribe for doing certain legal work. I am positive that aU
AFFAnK or THK MXXiCAS iUCKAPOO JSmA%S^ 3031
Or pWigmBd3tgi ■iiU't*'! tib? fliSd ^ensMtra^ «:&i «sittj%?^ mn^ are irrc^^^ii^sr aad
are ^pw4 m» ttr jis tbe asid trib«> Ic ^mmwtm^
I nsiutsiMv mut tsBSdarr^ew I had wr'stM tibcr «id Ifamita J. B«Bt$&«7 an wWA
DfQdije/ i^^irijtif ira» aMtisi^ as Tu%firyrvz*s. xjjA. iter laiid B«£jtik«3r mOatCMSeA
jb O^Liali-.tLuii T*»T;i/.ff7 *^ ♦*niii* 'tsiiiewii^rt. 1 fetare aiiir> -w«iT«r»«d wiiifc the
ioud W. & FitsML mufjirutj, ht aiM* a^Sri^iiii^ Utas i&» Lndiaitf ato»igB tibor
aiikcniBUt i*ertu
loso^ 4bif X saiki Bzllkx:.
W. p. Dtl
T- W. Au^joaL
^vimjTli*^ tLiA sv-ocB lA fcief«re mt tftiia l^St& daj of AiagnHt, 19M.
I ia^iret?' -tftiniilj tiKUt I iiiA<&erfriJSLii4 asd «(iffiT^?%cr is i&Mr Fnag^iffti aad the
Ifts^-gn; «yi.ritg; titt; mtauft ift^m^ mgiMid ijf Liai m mj preii«i«^i^
[Sxfiiar K.)
JM»"rj.'jij LiirJtsnj- lie^ fr« ^mj *-» t«nj aktiy.<g^,iirg ti& law. aijs:
iS^ii'iitt'r Trit* <ttf lL»dj.tiitfe. iixijug <ci It/ alk'Liiitmit jzi O-iJAiiCttSia Ttsrr:3A«7- I
a^ -2; nt^-iui^es* ^ lit*' I^idi2LSi ><>Jjcie Icr-'j^ <«<>f «2iJ<3 tr^ie: aja aJcKr a a*wiihfT of
lilt *" i»ii^:i«ti» ecttiiiL.nibfe- ^' <«f li**- *aij4 tr3i»t- -tKCL^iHSfia <rf Kfr^a isauKlieiB
Ti«ejT%j«L -w^fi i» a.inl»yriK54 u* ;*?:?■', ^:ia ^JWiAiii dCL*** l»jr tiiii; tr^it- 1 aa
i«'.»i.:*ta» r,±i*i: 11.1.7 '"■*:^i^ t^t-f-:'?*- liawiL. aLLid iiJ* J* Ti* «iiij luasaiw ttity itare
4r «t ajL'j ■enter 'lii**- -vrittf^^zz, :\ -Baif- ;.*r«:'jii-.«K!l v.- ♦bdj-s^-'.? w. if, FjekiF ajF aa
a^t^v^it?* f-*^ ti* trii*e ai»4 t/j jttij Lim ■c*b5 <.€ ili^ trltniJ fiaife I fed fiare
I fiffij l^iJier*- thfci A'ni':»rLi*7 W, JL Fi*-i<3* aik<3 ^ji^ixl LsMSJaa Aw«it Ifarua J.
Iiafli«T "sr^Tt lii^ j..*r.iLj-.n^^^ -^A rLif b-.±»*2iii«f t*:- "ciJi-jrfuijj w:^'.vst*: *ienaja fvadi
<af Tiifr trli**' t* - ri^ff ? -.c t*»»r »Jt jk3 Fj*-idi- atli'jo*^. airf iliai itej kxit«" iLai* a iMS^t
usit^jtx^ ^A "Lit*- iL^ii-t#erf fA "±1*: ist'A tr3^ ■« 'ji^ lie <'.)5.»;<;me5 fj* «ii4 a.'.t J-.CL-
ffhotf 214m5^ liy tii*r BJt^i ij^e/^ Az*?l: B^Ci^j. "^tT Tift Bt>5 lii'iltiif -aili lie
-wmg^Ikti t'- fc'^ji-ii'3-.'L T±**r'.T *J>.*tzi»*^i* iij ti'-Hk^ Tr^rf'rj.^ azk^i yy:tvr -el^f^^iwitL
Rj rvbMjm 'A tte r^^^T^ltr «*:*• £i««3 Fvi a^-fSJi aiad if5.-«**^-*iiJ li^iltz. Jk^aas Btfssa3ef
2U *i«nA:i Uii;"-*^*^ s'.ii*^ 'iLte^i- tpt;,ftiti :Zi2: t.v -cc* and f*c«ii»eLiiui** aj^jj^^ic^ tt»
fi^ l^LxitZ :2jr*^.:r:\*j.r:: v;. i-.:, :i*f..M. iii*v-»^ i-.g' ^ iLtiL-d*- '.'l *j^ "^tLii^at/.-ticffif bad
i»jr j«^*^?»-jt: A^'jL.1 hi^sLi.*^ ai»(3 «€ iia» miiieuKt* m rt^atrd t«# -li* rtsoivraJ «C
SwjxcH Ljitlcax (Us x flU3lK|.
W, p I/ix.
Ss&a'jTB«H<3 ai»4 Firrira v.- lit^c^rt 22* tfcSf 15?i daj <^ Aias^vit. 1«J5^
IfiCAX.]! W. P. r^x. jr<;««r|F /^ Wis.
2032 AFPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIAH8.
Shawnee, Okla., August IS, 1898,
I hereby certify that I am a member of the Absentee Shawnee Indian tribe,
and that I converse in and understand the English language and the Absentee
Shawnee Indian language, and that I interpreted to "Switch Littieax " the
foregoing instrument of writing, and that he seemed to fully understand the
same before signing, which was done in my presence.
Thomas W. ALFoaa
[Exhibit L.]
Territory of Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County, aa:
Thomas Washington, being first duly sworn according to law, says:
My name is Thomas Washington; I am a full-blood member of the Absentee
Shawnee tritx? of Indians under the care of the United States Indian agent of
the Sac and Fox Agency, Okla. ; I am about 5G years of age, and am located
on my allotment in the said Territory of Oklahoma ; I have long been familiar
with the customs and usages of the said Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians in
regard to the transaction of tribal business; it Is invariably the rule of the
trll)e when any new business is to be considered to notify all the male adult
memt)ers of the tribe to consider in council the business to come before them. I
was not notified of a purported council of the tribe held about December 13,
1897, at which it is now said the the said Absentee Shawnee tril)e of Indians
contracted with an attorney named W. S. Field, and therein agreed to pay him
for certain legal work ; I had no knowledge of the nun^ting of the said tribe on
said date nor before or since for the purpose indicated; therefore any action
taken by the tribe as then nprescnted is null and void, for tlie further reason
that I am informed there were not to exceed twelve members of the said tribe
at the said meeting. 1 am a member of the "business coumiittee" of the said
tribe of Indians, composed of seven members thereof.
That the Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians are much discouraged in their
farming operations by reason of countless rumors being continually circulated to
the effect that the said Indians will be comi)elled to give up their allotments In
this Territory and remove elsewhere. It is my understanding and belief that
Martin J. Bentley, special United States Indian agent, and the said W. S.
Field, attorney, are continually expressing the opinion that the said Absentee
Shawnee tribe of Indians will be removed elsewhere, and this is the principal
cause of the discouragement now existing among the Industrious class of the
said Indians, since we do not know whether or not we will be allowed to
retain our present homes.
Thos. Washington (his x mark).
Witnesses :
W. P. Dix.
Thomas W. Alforr
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 12th day of August. 1808.
[SEAL.] W. P. Dix, Notary Puhlio.
(My commission expires March 23, 1902.)
Shawnee, Okla., August It, 1898,
I certify on honor that I understand and converse In tlie English language, as
well as the Absi'ntee Shawnee Indian language, and that I Interpreted to Thomas
Washington the foregoing instrument of writing, and that I fully believe tliat
he understood the same before he signed the same by mark, which was done in
my presence.
Thomas W. Alpobo.
[Exhibit M.j
I'ERRiTORY OF OKLAHOMA, County of Pottawatomie, ss:
** I^>ng Man," of lawful age, being first duly sworn according to law, says:
My name is Long Man ; my age is about 56 years ; I am a full blood member
of the Absentee* Shawnee trilM? of Indians and reside upon my allotment In
Cleveland County, Okla. I am a member of the council of the Big Jim band of
said tribe.
MTfMSSi ^9^ SME St^XBOLSr KTCKAlNXV ISlI^JtX^
f was mit aifhr!n»*ff 'if « *wnm^ *i€ ite BS? .frm ftniaf tefif <fa ir aAum: BUfwafi-
^s^oniaumst jirjr* ?!&i»r?^('}c:. E was*. ai'^«»«i»w: 5c«^M4^iit in & sutitiiiD^ ^rf ai>«nr qhi
wht^fL i^L^ ^At WXtiitt wssf 5n»f»«iJ: imf <iiii8r Kiarda J. R*acli»y. ^^w^^i' EmfidB
assMit:: dui-c aa: rifiai: mnn*- an 'maOTj^x lif^vw»i^a, dlH- -fttiiit SaFfeea* .'Bbi sto- ^otM
-Hi: it ai*»ftc:inr w^a .»jiil»*ft fir r.-^y piar^i****^ -^tf «^aixur du»- ^vtiit 'WiLfraeT: ^tdeH Tdkn-
-mit W'j^A E asm iili*«v »?*!r-.i n ^h:\ z r.ntf ^^vrritiii mt^mtit^r^ ^t rfef BSur Jim 'Wnmnil
«^<*rf¥ iiir:t!i*ft ^> :iiw«*tiihi»*. i.iii tiit aiK ini'biife^ an^ir?* dian lint*- iiif«iiti««?i^ <rf tfes
«iiit fcutisia. nr^bi*. i <iv mn i»M i*v^ WL-arrnit X B^^nrl**?-. ^p^wiiid l:ui^asL ^xpmxL waef
Eoifianw in. r^iiiriiia r^^ rJi^r -raoi^Jiitiili'^n; '^f trJviI fifiwni*»WL smt i3r » til**- niLv-taTTtnif
nil* riittc lii -in* ^^'^cnxr ii»*mh»*ir* if -iUft «liv*^ ^himiil i»^ irtd^**^ tira ^ jBi»»Hiii se
an.7 'iiiliiyr ^fer**^ tn «^nniHir**r t:^!*- •*aioij>?mi*m: -if diH- -niiit ni*4it it*^ ^«iiit *cm€!ii¥y.
r nn mmif^hsxt a»tiiTiaiiiiSi*»C w rli K-irriTL J B^aTii*y. ^u<»f*!:il Eiiif:«a aawKC saii
Sl^Si^t :a 5c»t<«ii!f*^ if :
SnhH«»rJi#**t ;iint fw*iC3L rii b«»f ac?*^ mst tdtis li»<i^ ^fey- <if AifKTWtt ISflft.
[fiLfcL-l X I>-. W, Jiaf5T*«w ^^4/c«*f ^nA/pt.
E &*Hr?»fty '*«rrlf7 diat C Tni!»*!r«:itait tait <*-ftav**CTe la ni* STntffii»ft. ^ui tte
Jlfi#iwir»*«^ *iiiiw3**t% riul.:ia liiiuriiuiHH Ami rjuix C ln&*r^r»r*»tt 3% niioi^ K;ia n&S'
fS^rRSsaair ii.ifiilii^ir. Lait rVH.**'^^ "iuix ii»» fnii7 inifwrwkHut dui- «tmi»^ !ii»^r% «Tr».»»«^
E fiirrlHir '»jftrT:ii^7 diiit ae *upj^l di** *iai»*^ in oiy 5Cfiii«*iUii* xf ^id» 'iwik fBRit ^still.
|ri&c?rr3r!! X^I
^j#»-'VW*^i^A*-*'^''"^*^- ^>^j^tt- K.>ii**-v!i;i. ia«t lC.tt4»-*|Tn?^i»n^-'^^ft: -if Swrfiif
fWHnir t!r^ '&iiT f'sf'^p^i i<'r»*'>r^rnr ^vi 'ut Vp* *»«»■ m*! -H17 W* ;|p»^ ai«nfi#»r» '^f r^ut
*Oid;iiii^m«i- miiwr difr »ar» >f di* :^r tsut ¥r\yz Umffna .to«i«»y. L«»- P^irliA ^idQc
F'vr ;ni>p»^ diji:i ^^r.-, j'^ar* isksr. ^nsfi: «!>#**» -u I faitsni SC*?!fef Fib&bi JMmi£ Ifart&i
JL Bi*arli*7' aste* aii«t 'Mrxj*- -^ alln«!ni»^nt>. *«»- E&»fftp% tili»- «pp#Mntai«LC <if
IDnrlnir dii^ '^iI if L^tT *nr.rji»»r ^fnnu"! W7fc» SiMif fiw dta» prar^ww?^ 'if ^^srini;
tiat*- *(is«i ":!«l»»ff *ni'iTr»^M» iiiTufivn 'fit^-r »ni>rjiif»n:^- vrut Siit* rawn. «0€ aatf
flptirt ii«^* a»*r»r y -.r^^ i#*f*a «*rr_><t ipiva -Jii^.r i^Ij*»r:m»»ars. S^ ?'»9i2»F>a >f di»*- vrrStm,
iwC *|Kwi«i JMJ^nr. B^*ari»*7 ia fi'Jar'a:^ ?:&*»- r^nu-i^'il if (wr orthi*- *irti»w1teni^ ftsms
2084 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
We have frequently heard and we believe that numerous councils have been
held by said Bentley with the dissatisfied band of our tribe, urging them not
to live on their allotments, under the promise that they will soon be removed
to other lands that they could hold in common as a home.
Since said Bentley acted as special a«(?nt the r>i'<>«res8lve members of our
tribe who are living on allotments have received no aid from the United States
In farm Implements, horses, or annuity goods, we being told by Bentley that
we would receve no further support If we Improve our farms; only those
who refused to farm would receive aid from the United States. Special Agent
Bentley seemed to pick out a few special friends In whom alone he confides.
He has a sort of secret-service system, and few seemed to know of his plana
This plan of working Is very discouraging to those of us who wish to Improve
our allotments.
We have been in trouble from the time said Bentley was appointed special
agent, and we desire In the future to have only the regular Sac and Fox agent
to have anything to do with our affairs. Our tribe has never agreed to the
appoltment of anyone to act In the ofiice Bentley holds, and we have never
agreed to pay any salary for anyone to act In the capacity of special agent.
Following the advice of Agent Bentley, or being discouraged by his acts, many
families have left allotments and taken up again the roving life that is
natural to us all.
We have been hearing so many stories regarding the sale of our allotments
we are made to feel that some great calamity is about to overtake us.
We represent the chiefs and councllmen of our tribe, and appeal for an
investigation of all matters connected with our interests.
Oc^QUE-NAH-Ko-THE (his X mark).
No-ten (his x mark).
Ko-KE-THA (his X mark).
* Mas-que-ken-ack (bis x mark).
Witnesses to mark:
L. Bkkman.
E. L. Beeman.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 15th day of August, 1898.
[BEAi..] De. L. Beeman, Notary PubUc
(My commission expires December 8, 1901.)
McCrx>UD, Pottawatomie County. Okla, August 15, 1898.
I, Thomas W. Alford, hereby certify that I uiuierHtand and converse in
English and the Mexican Kickapoo Indian languages, and that I interpreted
the foregoing afiidavit to tliose wlio have afllxed tlieir signatures thereto and
that they fully understood the same before signing, and that the said afiidavit
was signed in my presence.
Thomas W. Axroaa
[ExniniT O.]
May 17, 1898.
I, Ix^wls C. Grimes, being duly sworn, depose and say that about three and
one-half months ago Martin J. Bentley called me to ours<»lves and said that
there were three quarter sections of land In the Pottawatomie country which
were fraudulent, and as soon as he returned from Washington he would put
me In a way to get the lands. lie was going to start for Washington in a few
days. Wlien Bentley returned from Washington he said a Mr. Martell (who
is .Terry Simps^in's private secretary), was coming here In a few days for the
pur|M)se of ferreting out fraudulent allotments and getting them canceled. He
said Martell was well posted and knew what hv was going to do and for me
to be ready to do business when Mnrtell arrlvcnl. As soon as Martell came he
(Bentley) would rome with Martell to my house, and If he could not come
he would send Martell alone. When Martell arrived Bentley said the land
Fad all been canceled and covered.
lie said he wnnted to intn-dncc nie to Mnrtell. but Martell thought best to
wait until he (Martell) found other fraudulent allotments, and Bentley
AFFAIBS OF THE 21EXICAN KIGEAPOO INDIANS. 2036
as soon as Martell looked over the records he would find other fraudulent
allotments, and he would bring him (Martell) to my house or he would send
him up to my house at once.
I only talked with Mr. Bentley but never made any agreement nor done any
business with either Bentley or Martell.
L. G. Grimes.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this May 17, 1898.
[SEAL.] W. O. Jones, Notary Puhlio,
(My commission expires March 3, 1902.)
[Exhibit P.]
Sac and Fox Agency, Okla., July 14, 1898.
The Gommissioneb or Indian Affaibs,
Washington, D.O.:
We, the chiefs and headmen of the Progressive band of the Mexican Kicka-
poos, assembled in council this 14th day of July, 1898, denounce the action of
one Martin J. Bentley for the manner in which our people are being treated.
When our chief, Ah-que-noc-o-se, was in Washington, about seven years ago,
a treaty was made with the Commissioner, and we all agreed on what was to be
done. Our understanding at that time was that all of us should go on our
allotments and labor for the support of our families. You told us that the
desire of the Government was that we settle down, raise stock, and be self-
supporting, all of which we have done. Now, the change has come. Instead of
encouraging us to stay on our allotments, we are informed that we must go
somewhere else; to a new home as it were. Some of our number have left
their allotments and gone over to the Kicking band as a result of stories told
them by Mr. Bentley.
At the present time we do not know where we stand. Mr. Bentley tells ns
we are not capable of becoming citizens of the United States ; that we can not
hold our lands in severalty. All of this is disastrous to our people.
At the time of our treaty we were informed that our agent was located at
Sac and Fox Agency, and we always looked to him and received his attention.
Up to two years ago our agent furnished us with the necessary implements,
plows, wire, etc. When our agent made a request for implements for us a short
time ago he was informed that the Department desired Mr. Bentley to disburse
our funds. This was the first time that we knew we had two agents, and that
Mr. Bentley was appointed and paid from our funds at our request This we
denounce as cowardly proceedings on the part of some one. We have never
made a request for an appropriation to the Department through Mr. Bentley,
uor have we ever signed any papers to that effect for him or through him.
Mr. Bentley purchased 13 sacks of flour, about 15 pounds of bacon, 1 box
soda, and 3 sacks potatoes, which were issued to Pan-o-wa, 0-ke-raa-the, and
Pah-see. We do not see why these articles were issued to these particular
Indians, as they are sufficiently able to support themselves. We protest against
the use of our funds In this manner.
We want implements, so that our people can work their allotments. Some
time ago Mr. Bentley came with Clark to see us. He said : " I came to have a
talk with you. In a short time I will be your agent and Clark will be your
farmer." They then left and Mr. Clark has never been to see us since. We
understand he spends most of his time with the Kickers. Why should not we
be as deserving as the Kickers? We work and try to support our families and
do what is right
We understood that Mr. Bentley was appointed to put the Kickers on their
allotments. This he has failed to do, as he Is trying his best to keep them in
the Caddo country.
We have been shown a letter written by Mr. Field, as attorney of Oklahoma
City, saying he was about to receive an appropriation from Washington of
$10,000 to buy teams, wagons, and provisions to be used in removing us to
Mexico. We do not know that he has received such an appropriation, but, if he
has, we earnestly protest against being removed from our homes.
2086 APFAIBS 07 THB MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
In conclusion, we ask that yon inform us who Is our agent and what disposi-
tion is being made of our funds.
Very respectfully,
Ah-que-noc-o-se, Chief; Noten, Assistant Chief; Mesh-que-ken'-ock,
Ko-ke-suh, O-ke-ma-a-som, Ah-kah-te-she-raah, Mah-cbe-ne-ne, A-
che-ma-que, Qua-ne-po-set. Ah-ne-she-ne-ne, Pe-o-mos-ke, Pah-
ka-se, Ah-che-ko, Pa-pa h-se-pe-a, Ke-no-aha-ma, Pem-me-ton,
Me-che-kah, Pe-ah-twy-tuck, Kah-kah-tos, Chak-ko-sot, Mah-we-
nah, Kah-to-quo-kah, Wah-pe-so, Na-plsh-ke, Toc-com-me, Pem-e-
pah-hoh-nab, Mah-ke-pah-ke-se, Mab-wab-pah-mah, Pem-me-sah,
Pe-ne-she, A-tah-nwah-tuck, Kab-pay-o-mali, Wah-pe-pe-nah, Ka-
kah-ne-che-kah.
Witnesses :
Hugh Pitzeb.
Payson S. Whatlet.
[Exhibit Q.]
Whereas on the 13th day of December, 1897, a meeting of certain headmen was
held at Big Jim camp on Little River, in Oklahoma Territory, at which meeting
said headmen adopted a certain resolution stipulating for the employment of
W. S. Field, an attorney at law of Oklahoma City, Territory of Oklahoma, to
render professional work on beiialf of our tribe at a compensation of $250 per
month and expenses and (.'lerk hire; said employment to continue three month
from date of the approval of the contract by the Interior Department; and.
Whereas a certain contract was made and entered into between W. S. Field
and the Absentee Sbawnet^s, on the 15th day of December, 1807, in triplicate,
by Big Jim and Joseph Blanchard, representatives, to employ W. S. Field at the
sum of $250 per month and expenses and clerk help, to secure to the Absentee
Shawnees the counsel, services, and advice of the said Field in the investigation
and accounting of various sums of moneys, and in ail matters in which said tribe
is interested in any and all the Departments of the Government of the United
States.
Said contract was approved on March 7, 1898, by Hon. W. A Jones, Ck)m-
missioner, and by C. N. Bliss. Secretary of the Interior, on March 16, 1898.
The adultH of the Absentee Shawnee Indians in Oklahoma Territory and
those elsewhere have assembled in open council on April 26 and on May 16,
1989 ; these two meetings held for the purpose to discuss and take into considera-
tion certain matters and things in this behalf ; and proper notices by messenger,
letters, and publication In newspapers given previous thereto to all adults and
individual members in Pottawatomie and Cleveland counties and those else-
where, to be present at a mass convention to be held on May 23, 1^8, at Joe
Billy's camp In Pottawatomie County, 4 miles west of Shawnee, Okla. The
meetings before stated were largely attended, but certain few falling to start
or appear, on account of the recent floods and washouts, deemed best to sus-
pend the action until the above date, when each and every indivUlual should be
present; and we the Absentee Shawnee Indians, are now assembled in council
on this 23d day of May, A. D. 1898, at the place heretofore designated :
Resolved hy the members of the Absentee Shawnee Indians in Oklahoma Ter-
ritory, in mass Convention:
Whereas on 13th day of December, 1807, the meeting of certain head-
men at Big Jim Camp was offlcially reported as conducted according to our
manners and customs; that proper notice was given, and that the unanimous
vote of the presumed council expressed the wishes of all our people, and that
that council unanimously by vote adopted a certain resolution, of which the
following is given as a copy:
At a ccmncil of the Big Jim band of the Absentee Shawnee Indians of Okla-
homa Territory, held after due notice according to the manners and customs
of said tribe, on the 13th day of December, 1897, all the headmen and council-
men of said tribe being present, it was —
Resolved, That whereas the Government of the United States has made
numerous treaties with the Shawnee tribe of Indians, of which we are a part
and by sjild treaties the I'nitcd States guaranteed to us the payment of various
sums of money and the undisputed possession of certain tracts of land, and
APPAIBS OP THE MEXICAK KICKAFOO INDIANS. 2087
we believe that the terms of said treaty have not been complied with and that
we have been deprived of onr land wrongfully, and that there are large sums
of money due us; and being desirous of having all of said treaties examined
and investigated, and of having an accounting of funds due us under the various
treaties heretofore made ; and it appearing to us that it is necessary for us to
have the assistance of counsel in said investigation and accounting, and to ap-
pear before CJongress and the various Departments of the Grovemment: There-
fore,
Be it resolved, That W. S. Field, of Oklahoma City, Territory of Oklahoma,
be employed as counsel of said Big Jim band of Shawnee Indians for the
period of three mouths from and after the date of the approval of a contract
hereinafter mentioned; and that he be paid for his services the sum of $250
per month and the further sum of his expenses incmrred in the execution of the
duties Imposed upon him, to examine all treaties heretofore made between
the United States and the Shawnee tribe of Indians, and to determine whether
or not the terms and conditions of said treaties have been complied with, and
to determine whether or not all payments of annuities and other monies pro-
vided to be made to said Indians by treaty or by acts of Ck)ngress have been
properly made, and to npiiear before the various Departments of the Govern-
ment in their behalf. Said compensation of $250 per month and said expenses
above provided for to be paid on proi)er vouchers monthly, out of any funds
now due to said tribe from the United States or out of any other fund which
the Secretary of the Interior may dlivct ;
Be it further resolved, That Big Jim and Joseph Blanohard be, and they are
hereby, directed, authorized, and eniiK)wered to enter into said contract for
and on behalf of said tribe of Indians with the said W. S. Field, as above stated.
And the Item of expenses above mentioned shall include the cost of employing
necessary assistance to the said W. S. Field, which the said Field is authorized
and empowered to employ.
Dated this 13th day of December, 1897.
Big Jim (his x mark), Principal Chief,
Joseph Blanch abd (his x mark), Official Interpreter*
John Taylor (his x mark). Councilman,
LrrTLE Creek (his x mark). Councilman.
John Welsh (his x mnrlv). Councilman.
Pecan (his x mark), Covucilman.
Jackson Clark (his x mark). Counciiman.
George Pecan (his x mark). Councilman.
Bob White (his x mark), Councilman.
Resolved further. That pursuant to said above and foregoing alleged resolu-
tion, said Big Jim and Joseph Blanchard have entered into a contract with
said W. S. Field, binding full compensation as above set forth.
Also that one Martin J. Bentley, as assistant special United States Indian
agent, vouches officially for veracity of the proceedings as follows :
Shawnee, Okla., January 1, 1897.
I, Martin J. Bentley, assistant special United States Indian agent, do hereby
certify that I am personally acquainted with each and every member of the
council of the Big Jim band of Absentee Sliavvnees in Oklahoma Territory;
that I am acquainted with the manners and customs o^said tribe in relation
to the calling and conducting of their councils ; that I was present at a council
of said baud of Indians on tlie 13th day of December, 1897, at which time the
annexed resolution was passed and signed by said council ; that at tliat time
each and every member of said council of said band was present; and that
the said resolution was passed by said council by unanimous vote, and that
the same expresses the unanimous will of said council and of said tribe : and
that said council was called and held according to the manners and customs
of said tribe.
Martin J. Benti^y,
Assistant Special United States Indian Apcnt.
Resolved, That the Absentee Shawnee Indians never did consider nor recog-
nise themselves as classed into indo[)endent tribes, nor that the proceedings by
any band could bind our people, and that we retain in any and all public mat-
ters the anreserved authority to act as a people;
2038 APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Be it further resolved, That Big Jim band Is not an Independent tribe, but
a portion of this people, and are invested with no power to act separate, dis-
tinct, and In all our names;
He it further resolved. That according to our manners and customs proper
notice must be served In all our settlements ample time previous to holding
of a council ; also that particular nature of matter to be discussed and adopted
must be set forth, and that such meeting must be held and conducted openly,
where any individual may be present;
Be it further resolved, That the action of said headmen, employing an at-
torney to render professional work, as set forth, be and is hereby denounced
as a cowardly proposition and null and void of any authority. We listened
to these gentlemen speak: Joe Billy, twenty-eight years a speaker, and second
chief; John Scott, councilman; Long Man, councilman, and Messrs. Snake Man
and Little Doctor, most prominent members within 1 and 2 miles of camp, in
substance knowing nothing of the said council officially reported and not pres-
ent ; that we know proper headmen and Absentee Shawnee people had not any-
thing to do with it ; and
Be it further resolved. That what seems to be reliable in connection with the
said contract is that Big Jim and Joseph Blanchard are personally responsible
for the entire proceeding, as Mr. Field desired the said persons to go with him
to Washington City; that we declare in Big Jim and Joseph Blanchard dis-
honorable men, and recognize the fact that if in their power would rob us
of our homes. Those individuals assert upon recent arrival^ from Washington
City that every Absentee Shawnee must turn over his land to said Big Jim,
who will relinquish it to the Government, and that the Absentee Shawnees are
to occupy reservations in common with the Comanchcs and Kiowas ;
Be it resolved further, That we seriously question the honesty, fidelity, and
good faith of the said W. S. Field; that said contract alleged and time of
adoption of said resolution alleged is unknown to any individuals here as-
sembled and are certain no notice of the said proceedings was given, nor
therefore could the said meeting have been called, held, and conducted, according
to our manners and customs; and
Be it further resolved. That we recognize In one Martin J. Bentley, assistant
special United States Indian agent, a tool for the said W. S. Field, a Federal
officer riding monthly on railroad pass to Washington City, filling a responsible
official position created to civilize the Indians, not to rob them;
Rcsolvcr further. That, sincerely believing the whole proceeding fraudulent,
responsible only upon said Big Jim and Joseph Blanchard, we condemn and de-
nounce its approval because unwarranted, and bearing no evidence of ratification
by the Absentee Shawnees ; nor was the opportunity given for the discussion and
consi<leration of the contents and puri)ort thereof, and if it was presented at
the Indian Office should have at once been returned for Investigation and our
approval ; that we strongly protest against the allowance of the enormous
compensation, when the employment could render us no service, and that we
resist the payment of said compensation, amounting to $975 as stipulated In
said contract; and that we notify the Indian Department not to pay out any
money now or hereafter belonging to the Absentee Shawnees, and that a copy
of these resolutions be forwarded to the honorable Commissioner Indian Afl^airs
and the Secretary of the Interior.
Thos. W. Alfobd,
Chairman of Business Committee,
Joe Billy (his z mark), chairman of Absentee Shawnee council;
White Twinkey (his x mark), ex-chief; Thomas Rock (his x
mark) ; Charley Starr; Sl-kaw-wah (or Se-gar) (his x mark),
councilman; Billy Panther (his x mark), councilman; James
Warrior (his x mark) ; Sam. Wilson (his x mark) ; Joe Charley,
councilman; John Scott (his x mark), councilman; Ben Bull-
frog (his X mark) ; Jim Little (his x mark) ; Doctor .John (his
X mark); John Foreman; William Shawnee, interpreter; Long
Man (his x mark), councilman; Edwin Ellis (his x mark),
councilman; John Spy-buck (his x mark): Slioney Little-bear
(his X mark) ; Peter Washington (his x mark) ; Sargeant Ellis
(his X mark); Don Dirt (his x mark); Wlillain Jenson (his
X mark) ; Tom Wentworth (his x mark) ; Martin Starr (his x
mark) ; Charley Beaver (his x mark) ; Walter FI. Shawnee,
■ecretary *' business committee ; " Edward Fry; Collins Panther
AFFAIKS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAP.00 INDIANS. 2089
(his z mark) ; William Little Axe (his z mark) ; Blue Ck)at
(his z mark) ; Switch Little Axe (his z mark) ; Chi-ka-tha
(Long Man, Jr.) (his z mark); Chester Logan; William F.
Hodgal; Elephant (his z mark) ; Winnie neark Rolette (his z
mark) ; Joe Co nalles (his x mark) ; George Coon (his z mark) ;
Benjamin Welsh (his z mark) ; Cedro Co nalles; Louis Tyner;
Thomas Washington (his z mark) ; Little Doctor (his z mark) ;
Snake man (his z mark) ; Billy Johnson (his z mark) ; Dich
Ellis (his z mark) ; Peter Brady (his z mark) ; Frank Fore-
man (his z mark).
I hereby certify that the above and foregoing resolutions were adopted by the
Absentee Shawnees in council this 23d day of May, 1898.
Dudley H. Shawnee,
Clerk Absentee Shawnee Council,
BzHiBiT No. 84 [Goode].
United States Indian Service,
Shawnee, Okla,, October 5, 1898.
Hon. O. N. Buss,
Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D, C,
Deab Sib: Referring to your letter of the 10th of September last, transmit-
ting letters from S. M. Brostus, making certain charges against Assistant Spe-
cial Agent M. J. Bentley, of the Sac and Fox Agency, supporting the same by
affidavits, you ask that I make a very careful and thorough investigation of
the charges made by Mr. Brosius, and also investigate Mr. Bentley's manner of
performing his official duties, generally and in detail. You also ask that I fur-
nish you with a detailed statement showing what Mr. Bentley has induced
his Indians to do, giving names of those of his Indians who have been induced
to establish homes, and list of improvements they have each made, etc.
In response to these instructions, I now have the honor to report that I ar-
rived, if memory serves me correctly, at this place, the most convenient of any
of access to Mr. Bentley and his Indians, on the 21st day of September, and
ordered that notices be given out calling for a council of the KIckapoo Indians
and Big Jim's band of Absentee Shawnee Indians, to be held at the Kickapoo
village or camp, a distance of some 16 or 18 miles from Shawnee, on the 23d
of the month, and meanwhile I visited and inspected the Absentee Shawnee
school, located within 3 miles of Shawnee, report of which investigation has
been forwarded to you.
I also telegraphed to Mr. Brosius, whose home Is at White Cloud, Kans.,
asking If he desired to be present To this telegram I received no reply, but
was afterwards informed that he had left town, whether permanently or not
I don't know.
In accordance with the arrangements above referred to, I met the Kickapoo
Indians In council on the 23d and 24th days of September, and on the latter
day the Absentee. Shawnees were also present, and read Mr. Brosius's charges
to them, and had the same duly interpreted in the presence of several inter-
preters.
Mr. Brosius's first charge. In substance, is that Mr. Bentley is thwarting
the good intentions of the United States by leading the Indians to believe that
they can dispose of their allotments and secure other reservation lands to be
held in common.
Second. That numerous families of the said tribes, believing the represtmta-
tions thus made, have abandoned their allotments already improved and again
embraced the shiftless life they formerly led.
In support of these charges Mr. Brosius produces the affidavit of Thomas
Aiford, Exhibit B. I took occasion to call upon Mr. Alford and took his affi-
davit on the matters referred to, which will be found on pages 10, 17, 18 of
testimony taken by me. Whether Mr. Alford's testimony is entitled to credence
or not, he is an educated Indian, but he is evidently very much prejudiced.
Exhibit P of Mr. Brosius's testimony, being a purported council of progressive
Kickapoo Indians held at Sac and Foz Agency 14th of July, 1898, also bears on
this subject as proof of the charges.
2040 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
As to this affidavit, I have to state I hnve examined every Indian I could And
whose name appears to the purported proceeding of council. Including the
chief, whose testimony will be found on page 3, with two others on siime page,
and eight others whose testimony will bo found on paj^es 8, 9, and 10 of testi-
mony taken by me, all stating that they know nothing of said paper and never
signed it.
Charge 4 Is practically the same as the others, and is supported by Exhibit N.
This is covered by testimony on pages 1, 2, 6, 7, and 8. No ten, a progressive
Kiokapoo, on page 6 says Brosius fliiimed to have l>een sent by the Department
to come here, and the Indians seemed to believe him to have been a Government
officer.
Fifth. Mr. Brosius charges that much laxity exists In the manner of disburse-
ment of issue of goods, proptu'ty being issued without being branded. An inves-
tigation may reveal the fact that Government proi)erty handled by said Bentiey
has been sold by him, notably a wagon, nmles, and harness, bought last winter
and never Issued. Bentiey answers this accusation as to the mules by bringing
forward the Indians who got the mules. See pnges 16 and 17. There were but
three mules in question. As to the wagon, it was one owned by Mr. Bentiey
and loaned for a while, finally taken back, and sold. The charge of laxity Is
indefinite, specifying nothing in particular.
Sixth. It Is thought Mr. Bentiey has established a system of paying Indian
funds due them by issuing orders on merchants, thus affording abundant oppor-
tunity for gain to himself by division of profits, etc.
Mr. Bentiey 's answer to this charge is the presentation of the account of
J. W. Robertson, with whom he deals, as taken from his books from April to
September, where it appears Mr. Bentiey Is charged with the goods for the
Indians as named specifically in the account. These Indians, it appears, as
they sell a load of hay, pumpkins, melons, or any other produce, and perhaps as
they receive lease money, will go each for himself and pay part or all the
account as he Is able to, and thus It appears by the statement that out of an
account of $198.25 $140.10 has actually been paid by the individual Indians as
they have been able to do so, and for the balance of $58.15 Mr. Bentiey stands
as surety. The prices charged for these goods seem to me to be very reason-
able. The aforesaid account will appear In Exhibit A.
Seventh charge in substance is that no care is exercised to settle these
Indians on their allotments and they become discouraged to find they are not
on their own lands and abandon the new way pointed out by those who have
the interest of the Indian at heart. Mr. Bentley's answer to this is the fenced
farms and inclosures where two years ago the reservation was a wide stretch
of open prairie. It does, however, sometimes happen that a man and his
family, possibly his son and his family, while having these lands all allotted
individually, and they may l>e adjoining, for convenience may actually all domi-
cile on one allotment, using the others for pasturage, for hay, or for cultivation,
as the case may be, carrying out the spirit of the law and the intention of the
Government In fact, in many cases the allotment of a member of the family
may not be suited to cultivation, but rather to pasture. It may not have a
good building place, but to combine two or three allotments in one will give the
family a farm well divided and adapted for farming puri>oses. The Indians do
not become discouraged on this account, nor do they abandon the ** new way "
t)ecause of this liberty, which Is in direct line with their wishes. These cases
are claimed to be the exception ratlier than the rule.
Charge S, to the effect that Mr. Bentiey advises the Indians to educate their
own children and not send them to the schools provided for them, etc.
Bentley's answer is that the contrary is true; that the Kickapoos are a very
8Ui)erstltlous people, and to Insist on making a wholesale move all along the
line — s<»n(llng the police to take the children by force to school — would destroy
the imrpose of the Government to settle them on homes of their own. Tliey
would. In such case, undoul>tedly abandon their homes; that this Is one of
the cas(»s where making haste slowly is the surest way to accomplish the
greatest good. He claims to have encouraged the Indians in the line of edu-
cation as fast as ci rciimstances will admit, even to the extent, on one occasion,
of taking Indian children In his own carriage and carrying tliem to insi>ect
the (Government school, and Induced two KIckapoo boys to remain In school;
and two others, for whom Mrs. Bentiey is guardian, are In one of tlie mission
schools; that he Is deeply interested In the education of these children, and
Ib making a slow but sure move toward the desired result
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAI7 KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2041
Ninth. That said Bentleys' advice is confusing the Indians, not knowing what
the intention of the United States is regarding their welfare.
Answer. This charge is indefinite and covers an immense field, perhaps the
entire typewritten testimony embracing 60 pages will apply here.
Tenth. That said Bentley does not give the attention to the Indians under
his care that his position contemplates, long periods elapsing during which he
is not on the lands where the Indians are located, one instance being reported
where he is said to have been abaent for a period of two and one-half months.
Aiiswer. See testimony of L.**ll. Cooley, county superintendent of public In-
struction, pages 38 and 39 ; also that of Greorge M. Young, page 40. Mr. Bentley
also states that whenever he has been absent for a longer or shorter time it
has almost always been in the interest of his Indians. The two and one-half
months' absence with which he is charged must have been six weelcs only In
Washington on leave of absence in the direct interest of his Indians. (See
testimony of J. W. Wayne, p. 42.)
Charge No. 11 and accompanying papers cover some 10 pages, but may be
sununarlzed thus, that the said Bentley approved the action of one W. S. Field,
an attorney, wherein a contract was secured from certain members of the
Absentee Shawnee tribe of Indians, wherein they agreed to pfly the said Field
certain funds for his services as attorney. The complaint is that a council was
held and the resolution employing Field was adopted and received the certifi-
cate of Mr. Bentley as follows, viz :
** Shawnee, Okla., January i, 1897,
" I, Martin J. Bentley, assistant special United States Indian agent, do hereby
certify that I am personally acquainted with each and every member of the
Big Jim band of Absentee Shawnees In Oklahoma Territory; that I am ac-
quainted with the manners and customs of said tribe in relation to the calling
and conducting of their councils ; that I was present at a council of said band
of Indians on the 13th day of December, 1807, at which time the annexed
resolution was passed and signed by said council ; that at that time, each and
every member of said council of said band was present and that the said
resolution was passed by said council by unanimous vote, and that the same
expresses the unanimous will of said council and of said tribe, and that said
council was called and held according to the manners and customs of said
tribe."
The resolutions referred to appear in full accompanying the charges and
hardly need be copied here.
Mr. Bentley claims that this council only Included the "Big Jim band" of
Absentee Shawnee Indians, and had no reference to the "White Turkey band"
whose resolutions were signed by Thos. W. Alford, "Chairman of business
committee;" that, in fact, the Absentee Shawnees, taken as a whole, do not
constitute the Shawnee tribe, but rather the " Absentee band of Shawnees ; "
that this band in turn Is divided into what Is called "The Big Jim band"
and the "White Turkey band;" that the word tribe as used in either case,
is technically wrong, but is usually meant only In the sense of band; that in
the certificate referred to, he has used the word band and " Big Jim's band "
first In his certificate; he speaks of being present at a council of said band,
but afterwards erroneously uses the word tribe; but that there need be no
mistake on this line as he each time speaks of said tribe, which according to
any correct construction of language, the word tribe not being first used, would
mean the Big Jim tribe, and synonymous with the term " The Big Jim band."
See Big Jim's testimony and five of his councilmen, constituting a majority,
pages 11, 12, and 13. See also testimony of Robert Deer, page 14 ; also Dudley
EL Shawnee, clerk of White Turkey band, page 15; also of William E. Shawnee,
member of White Turkey band, page 21 ; also Billy Panther, a White Turkey,
pages 36 and 37. Wm. Shawnee, the Interpreter for White Turkey band, page
46. Billy Panther's testimony may be valuable In referring to the charge No. 1,
accusing Mr. Bentley of encouraging the Indians in the belief that they may
dispose of their allotments, remove elsewhere, and get reservation lands In
common.
As regards the general accusation that Mr. Bentley neglects his business,
is of no service to the Indians, and a detriment to the Government, reference
Is made to the testimony of W. S. Search, president of Shawnee National Bank,
page 85, and C. J. Benson, his cashier, page 57. J. H. Maxey, president
Fint National Bank of Shawnee, page 49, and C M. Cade, his cashier, page
27818— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 8 ^U
2042 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
52. See testimony of O. S. McEwan, one of the passenger conductors of the
Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railway, who nms his train regularly through
the Kickapoo lands, and has done so since before Mr. Bentley had charge of
the Indians, page 47; also testimony of J. W. McLoud, general solicitor of
same road, pages 58 and 59.
Henry Wood, general manager of same road, page 60, as corering points
already touched and not touched reference is made to testimony of E. W.
Sweeney, pages 50 and 51. Pan-o-wa, a Kicking Kickapoo, whose testmony is
important, page 44.
Sidney Schram, a farmer of good reputation, page 43; O-ke-ma-them, a pro-
gressive Kickapoo, page 41; Joseph Whipple, a progressive Kickapoo, page 29;
O-ke-ma, Kicking Kickapoo, page 28, who has 500 acres fenced for himself and
family.
Kah-kah-sho-co-me, high councilman of Kicking Kickapoo. Please read what
he says about these charges in which he recognizes the wolves he was warned
agahist while in Washington.
Richard A. Tinmions, ex-county surveyor, page 26. William F. Ramseier,
farmer on Kickapoo land, page 23. O. 6. Lee, real estate man, first county
clerk of this coufity, page 22. G. W. Adams, an attorney at Shawnee, also a
farmer, page 19. E. G. Phelps, printer and newspaper man, page 18. Par-the,
a Kicking Kickai3oo, page 17; he and his family have 240 acres inclosed.
Lewis C. Grimes, an extensive farmer on Kickapoo lands, page 4.
I have thus gone through with the testimony actually taken in Mr. Bentley's
case, but may say that numbers of men that I believe bear good reputations
have stood ready and evinced a willingness to testify to Mr. Bentley's integrity
and efiiciency as well as absolute devotion to his wards. If an Indian is In
trouble he goes to the rescue. He furnishes his own means of transportation;
has, I am told, worn out one buggy in the service ; he furnishes his own office by
securing a desk in an office of a generous man of the town. He can not be
with the Indians and also attend to the clerical work of the office. He employs
an Indian clerk at his own expense, and what is peculiar about him, he employs
one of his enemies, who gave testimony sustaining the charges of Mr. Brosius, as
his confidential clerk. (He carries his office papers in his satchel to and from
home every day.) I called upon this clerk to testify and his testimony appears
on page 15. I have been over the lands and observed them along the road as
much as I felt that my time would permit In one inclosure of Kicking Kicka-
poos, I find a good pasture located close to town, where the stock of the towns-
people is pastured nt a certain price per head. In another is cultivated ground ;
in another is a hay field, with large stacks of hay ready for market ; in one close
by town is a race course and fair ground leased by the Indian ; also the circus
managers desiring to show in Shawnee must pay tribute to a Kicking Kickapoo
for a place to hold forth near town. I have myself seen these Indians In town
during piy short stay, with wagons loaded or partly loaded with something
to sell. I believe Mr. Bentley to be very particular that the lease money
goes into the bands of the Indians, and that while he goes personal security
for the payment of purchases made by the Indians, he will not even retain
the money of the Indians, when in his hands, to secure himself. It may
with a good deal of propriety be asked. Why will Mr. Bentley so interest
himself on the behalf of those Indians on a salary of $1,200? I believe this
question can only be answered, so far as anything has come under my observa-
tion, that in the better sense of the term he is an Indian "crank;" and my
impression now is decidedly that he should not be Interfered with by the Sac and
Fox agent in anywise; that his employees should be absolutely under his own
control, and paid by himself. To illustrate, the Sac and Fox agent employing
the farmer and detailing him for Mr. Bentley 's use can exercise an ir^uence
over him very prejudicial to Mr. Bentley*s management. He can call him away
at pleasure, as he has done now, probably to settle with him at the close of the
quarter; but it should take but two days for this, and even this time might not
be lost were Mr. Bentley paymaster for his own employees. And in the detail
of a policeman, Mr. Patrick sends an Indian who has served a term in the
penitentiary for stealing from a Kicking Kickapoo, and of course he can be of
no service among the Kickapoos.
Referring to the latter part of your instructions, that I furnish you with a
detailed statement showing what Mr. Bentley has induced each Indian to do
and what he has done for them, giving names, etc., I refer you to Mr. Bentley's
verified statement made under my own suix^rvlsion, which is believed to account
for every Kicking Kickapoo, and very many of the progressives.
AFEAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2043
I am of the opinion that Mr. Bentley Is doing a grand work for these Indians,
and I fear it is hardly appreciated. He should, in my judgment, be liberally
supported. I think the testimony will convince the honorable Secretary that
the charges against Mr. Bentley are not sustained. I recommend that in the
interest of the service and in Justice to Mr. Bentley, that he be allowed a
clerk, an office, and a team and buggy, and that he have entire charge of all
the Kicking Kickapoos, and also the progressive Kickapoos, including their
lands, leasing, etc.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Gybus Beede,
United States Indian Inspector,
I mail the evidence under separate cover, and return the papers accompany-
ing your letter in still another envelope.
Exhibit No. 35 [Goode].
Shawnee, Okia., Bepteniber 29, 1898.
Hon. Gybus Beede,
United States Indian Inspector.
Sib: In compliance with your request for a detailed statement at to what
the Indians have actually done themselves imder my direction, and what I had
done for them, I have the honor to submit the following report :
INDIANS WHO ABB LOCATED UPON AND IMPBOVING THEIB ALLOTMENTS.
270. Okema ; E. f of the SE. i of sec. 24, Twp. 10 N. of R. 3 E.
271. Thl-the-puah : W. i of the SE. i of sec. 24, Twp. 10 N. of R 3 E.
272. Tho-kah-muck : E. i of the SW. \ of sec. 24, Twp. 10 N. of R. 3 B.
273. Na-kah-piah : W. i of the SW. i of sec. 24. Twp. 10 N. of R. 3 E.
274. Pah-kah-tuck : Lots 1, 2, 5, of sec. 25, I'wp. 10 N. of R 3 E.
275. Mesh-smah-the-puah : Lots 3, 4, 6, and 7, of sec. 25, Twp. 10 N. of R. 3 B.
Total acreage, 477.61 acres.
The aboce lands belong to Okema and family and were inclosed by him and
family with a substantial barbed- wire fence erected by the Indians, amounting
to over 3 miles in length, except that one while man l>v the name of Paeter
did assist Okema in erecting less than half a mile of this fence, and for which
labor Oke-ma paid him. The white man did only a minor part of the work on
the half mile. These Indians have 18 acres in cultivatiim, upon which they
have raised a fine crop of com and other farm crops during this and last season.
The labor in making this field was performed entirely by the Indians, except
about 6 acres of land which was of such nature that Oko luahs team could not
break it. The white man who did break the 6 acres was paid in hay belonging
to Oke-ma.
This land is in two fields, one of 13 and the other of 5 acres. These fields
were inclosed by Oke-mah with a substaT^tial barbpd-wire fence of three wires.
Oke-mah keeps and milks a cow and has erected a calf pen, hogpen, and has
corrals and other farm improvements.
This family, in addition to cultivating 18 acres of land, earn a considerable
support by taking in horses and cattle from the town people of Shawnee to
graze.
I have had a well bored on this tract of land, which furnishes a good supply
of cold water.
These Indians moved upon this allotment and began work in October, 1896,
since which time all this improvement has been made. This family's revenue
from grazing amounts to $150 per annum.
276. Pem-e-tum-wah : Land not occupied. A single man and lives with his
mother.
277. Ah-ke-na-mah-tho : Has part of her land leased and lives with her
mother.
278. Wah-she-hone : Very old and infirm. His land, the W. i of the NW. i
of sec. 24, Twp. 10 N., of R. 3 E., is under fence and occupied by his nephew,
No. ^0, who has opened a field and put 10 acres in cultivation.
279i Wan-neth-the : Dead. Land leased by heirs at $30 per aniwww.
2044 AFFAIB8 OF THB M:EX10AN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
280. Wah-pe-che-quah : W. i of the NB. i of sec. 31, Twp. 13 N., R. 1 B.
Poor, slim oak; sandy land.
281. Pahko-ne : E. i of the NW. i sec 31, Twp. 13 N., E. 1 B. Forty acres
leased and in cultivation.
2883. Na-mah-e-to, minor : W. i of NW. i sec. 31, Twp. 13, N.. E. 1 B. Forty
acres leased and in cultivation.
283. No-ah-ka-quah, minor: W. ^ of SW. i sea 31, Twp. 13 N., R. 1 B.
Leased and in cultivation.
284. Pah-ka-no-quah : E. i of SW. i sec. 31, Twp. 13 N., E. 1 B. Leased and
In cultivation.
285. Pe-nee : E. i of NW. i sec. 9, TWp. 10 N., R. 3 E. Married to Wisconsin
Pottawatomie Indian and lives with her husband in that State.
269. Mah-nah-sah-kah, dead: W. i of NE. i sei-. 24, IVp. 10 N., R. 3 B.
Land leased by his mother Mary Pene-tho, at $54 per annum.
268. No-ni-e-kit, minor : E. ^ of N W. i of sec. 24, IVp. 10 N., R. 3 B. Leased
and improved, at $54 per annum.
267. Pah-pe-shlck : E. i of the NE. i of sec. 24, Twp. 10 N., R. 3 E. Allottee
dead. Land lies immediately west of Shawnee. Is inclosed with barbed-wire
fence, part of It three and part four wires. Fence erected by people of Shawnee
for the privilege of holding Fourtli of July Celebration, July 4, 1897. This
applies to that portion lying north of the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Rail-
road right of way and containing about 38 acres. Balance of this 80-acre tract
south of the railroad fenced by railroad company, on the north by lessee
on adjoining land, on the west, south, and east sides fenced by white persons
and paid for by grazing their stock, at $1 per montlL This tract of less than
40 acres paid the heirs a revenue of more than $12 last year, In addition to-
paying for material and erecting fence along the east and south sides.
266. Pe-nee-she: Lot 7 and NE. i of SE. i sec. 23, Rwp..lO N., of R. 8 B.
Allottee has a Sac and Fox wife and lives among her people. Leased for $30
per annum.
265. Pah-pe-quah, minor, deceased: Land not leased.
264. Pah-ke-che-moke : Lots 3, 4, and 5, sec. 23, Twp. 10 N. of R. 3 B. Minor
child. Leased at $25 per annum.
263. Wah-pe-ke-che : Lots 1 and 2, sec. 23, and SE. i of NW. i sec. 23, Twp.
10 N. of R, 3 E. Not occupied.
262. Tah-nah-ke-ah : I^ts 2, 3, and 4, sec. 15, Twp. 10 N., R. 3 E. Too poor
and sandy to be leasable.
261. Kah-sho-kah-me : E. i of NE. i, sec. 15, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Poor, sandy,
rough land ; not occupied.
260. Ah-na-tha-hah-quah: N. i of NE. i, sec. 14, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Leased for
$25 per annum.
259. Ne-kah-na-pit : N. i of the NE. i, sec. 14, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Allottee
old and infirm; lives at "village." Ills land occupied by Ke-ah-tah-pe, a Mex-
ican Kickapoo, who received no allotment here. This Indian has made a
field of about 4 acres; has erecte<l a wire fence around the tract
258. Me-na-nlesh : Lot 4 and SE. i of NE. i. sec. 14, Twp. 10, R. 3 E.
257. Ko-ke-kah-huck : Ix)ts 5 and NE. i of SE. i of sec. 14, Twp. 10, R. 3 B.
256. Pah-the : S. i of ^. i, sec. 14, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. These three tracts of
land are occupied and have been improved by Pah-the and his boy. The entire
tract, containing about 240 acres, is inclosed wilh a substantial fence of three
wires, erected by Pah-the and his boy. They have broken and put In culti-
vation a field of about 20 acres, which they inclosed with a barbed- wire fence
of three wires with posts 18 feet apart. They have an orchard of over 200
thrifty growing apple and peach trees of standard varieties. They have also
fenced 40 acres of hay land off to itself, and also have a p.\ stare inclosed. They
have erected a substantial Indian house with lumber sides and bark rooiP;
have a large corn crib that they built and erected themselves, and have exca-
vated and built a splendid dugout or cellar in which to keep vegetables through
the winter. They have gradeil and made roads across the several gullies on
this tract; have constructed good and secure wire gates, and have two large
wooden gates. They, with the Kickapoo farmer's assistance, have drilled
a well 35 feet deep, which furnishes them an abundant supply of good water.
Prior to July, 181M», not a furrow had ever been turned nor a fence post set on
this tract of land. All the above-described improvements have been made
since the above date. These Indians now have an abundant supply of com,
beans, sweet and Irish potatoes, peanuts, and pumpkins. From a start two
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICEJLPOO INDIANS. 2045
years ago of a rooster and two bens they now have 76 fowls. This family
have hauled and sold on the streets of Shawnee during this season, green com,
melons, Irish and sweet potatoes, cord wood and stove wood, and hay.
255. Wah^the-ah: N. i of the NW. i sec 13, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Allottee
aged and deaf, and other allottees who have no hay land on their allot-
ments have cut the hay on this entire 80-acre tract, upon which now stand 12
large ricks of hay.
254. Chuck-e-'-kin-ah-a : S. i of the NW. i sec. 13, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Minor
child. Land leased at $40 per annum, under fence, 20 acres broken, good well
of water 55 feet deep, good frame house, stables, etc.
253. Ma-tin-a-ya, minor child: N. i of SW. i sec. 13, Twp. 10, R. 3 B.
Parent occupies this allotment in connection with her own.
252. Kah-kah-to-the-quah : S. i of SW. i sec. 13, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Under
substantial fence erected by Indians. Field opened by Indians of about 12
acres, which Is Inclosed by a substantial barbed-wire fence erected by Indians,
They have planted in this Hold an orchard of 250 thrifty, growing apple and
peach trees (budded and grafted). They, the allottee and her children, live in
a black jack grove, In which they have erected a corral and have cut out the
lower limbs and brush, having erected a permanent Indian house. During the
year 1807 I had a well 50 feet deep bored for this widowed allottee and her
children, which furnishes water abundant for themselves and stock.
251. Ke-ah-qua-huck, deceased husband of No. 252: S. i of SB. i sec. 13,
Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Same Kicking allottees during the fall of 1896 erected a
barbed-wire fence of three wires along the east and south sides of this tract
Afterwards the widow of the allottee leased this 80 acres for $50 per annum.
It Is now all fenced, has a good house on it, and 40 acres in cultivation.
250. Wah-nah-ke-tha-hah : N. i of SB. i sec. 13, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Fence
erected along east and west ends of said tract, after which allottee married
and went to live on his wife's allotment and leased his land for $50 per
annum.
249. Chuck-ke-qua-ah-tha, child of 248, die<l in 1805: S. i of SW. i sec. 12,
Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Leased by mother, solo heir, at $40 per annum. Forty-five
acres of land broken, good house, good well, stables, etc.
248. Tah-ah-kah-me : N. i SW. i sec. 12, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Being a woman, la
unable to occupy her land. Sold hay crop this year for $20.
247. Pah-me-na-ko-the : S. h NW. i sec. iJ, Twp. 10. R. 3 E. Has made a
field and lives on a widowed relative*s allotment. Sold hay crop this year on
above tract for $20.
246. 8huck-e-qu-ah : N. i of NE. i soc. 12, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child of
Kicker parent, who has more hay land than he cnn cut. Sold hay crop from
this land for $20.
245. Puck-ke-shin : S. i of NE. i sec. 12, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child of wid-
owed mother. Sold hay crop for $20.
244. Ne-pah-hah: N. i of SE. i sec. 12, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Woman allottee.
Sold her hay crop this season for $15.
243. Kishrke-nic-quat : S. i of SE. i sec. 12, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Having been un-
able to procure from the Government necessary wire and equipment to enable
this allottee to occupy and improve his land, and he l)eing a partner with jin-
other Indian, who had a team and implements, I i)ermitted this Indian to sell
his hay crop for $15.
242. Pahe-nah : W. i of SW. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Is the wife of a pro-
gressive Klckapoo, who lives upon his allotment, 18 miles from this tract. I
permitted her to sell her hay crop for $20.
241. Tah-pah-the-a : E. ^ of SW. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Aged Squaw.
The hay on her land was made on shares and by the Indian family with whom
she lives.
240. Ma-ka-se-ah : W. i of SE. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child of Kick-
ing parent, who reserves this land for its hay.
239. Mah-ta-pen-ne : E. i of SE. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child of 287.
Parent now occupying this tract, upon which he has made and now has several
large stacks of hay.
238. Pum-y-tum-moke : W. i of NE. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Being a woman
and the wife and mother of other Indians who had more hay land than they
could manage to cut, I permitted her to sell her hay crop for $20.
237. Pah-ko-tah : E. ^ of NE. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Was permitted to sell
hay crop for $20, for the reason that he had more hay on other lands belon^&la^
to the family than lie could cut, and it was in a better XoeatVoxu
2046 APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
23n. Meck-ke-kah: B. 1 of NW. i sec. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Was permitted to
sell his hay crop for $19, for the reason that he was physically unable to labor.
235. Peah-twyh-tuck : W. i of the NW. i se<'. 11, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Leased
through me when I was assistant to Special A^ent O^h'sby.
234. Chuck-ko-skush : I^ts 1 and 2, sec. 10, and lA>t 1, sec. 15, Twp. 10, R. 3 E.
Minor child. Land rough, sandy, and too poor to be in demand by persons
wanting to lease.
233. Ke-ah-ko-pit : B. i of SW. i sec. 10, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Minor child of No.
231. Poor, sandy land, very low and part of an old lake ; not desirable, will not
232. Py-a-cho, minor child : W. i of SE. i sec. 10, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Leased at
|38 per annum.
231. Mah-sko-ta-a-tah : E. i of SE. } sec. 10. Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Allottee has at-
tempted to occupy and improve allotment and has by his labor made a field
of about 12 acres. During the planting season he was sick and unable to
labor, and rather than let the land lay out uncultivated I permitted him to
have a white man make a crop for him this season. This Indian is still very
sick and will probably die soon. Sold 10 acres hay for $2.50.
230. Cha-cha-ko-the-wa : W. i of NE. i sec. 10, Twp. 10, U. 3 E. Minor child.
Land covered with scrub timber, rough and not leasable.
220. Ma-ka-the-quah : E. i of NE. i sec. 10, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Allottee Is a
woman, and heretofore her family have cut the hay on her land. This year
I perinitt(»d her to sell her hay crop for $20.
228. Steve Personeau : W. i of NW. i sec. 10, Tyvj). 10, R. 3 E. Child of white
woman. Land leased by Oglesby. Have had nothing to do with this allot-
ment.
227. Ko-tuck-che-mah-quah : E. i of NW. i sec. 10, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Leased
for $30 per annum. Allottee died last July.
22r». Edwin Pensonenu : E. i of NE. i sec. 9, Twp. 10. R. 3 E. Progressive
Klckai>oo boy now at Carlisle, Pa. Have had notliiu^j to do with this allotment.
225. Wah-tuck-we-che : W. i of NE. i sec. !), Twp. 10. R. 3 E. Kicker woman.
So far has refused to have anything to do with her land.
224. Ke-sho-ta-mo : Lot 1 and NE. i of SW. i sec. 9, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Single
man. Land low, sandy, and undesirable, and ho refuses to accept it.
223. Kl-yah-squah: rx)ts 2, 3, and 4 sec. 9, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Inor child.
Land poor, sandy, and not leasable.
222. Eue-kohn : rx)ts 5 and 0 and NW. i of SE. i sec. 9, Twp. 10, R. 3 E.
Allottee has made and set posts around 40 acres of this tract and is preparing
to occupy it
2:^1. Nah-ne-she-pe : Lots 3 and 4 sec. C, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Alottee dead.
Land poor, sandy, and not in demand.
220. Pah-nah-ka-tho: Lots 1 and 2 sec. 6, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Kicker woman
who refuses to lease her land.
219. Kish-ke-ton: Lots 5, 6, and 7 sec. 6, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. This land Is
80 located that no inquiry has been made to lease it. Belongs to minor child.
218. Pa-pe-ah-she : Lots 5, 6, and 7 sec. 5, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Rough and heavy
timbered. Allottee will not own it.
217. Mah-quo-the-eck : Lots 3 and 4, sec. 5, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Allottee is a
woman, and lier land is covered with heavy timber. Is willing to lease, but I
am unable to find anyone wanting this land.
21(J. Ah-pha-pun: S. i NW. i of sec. 5, Twi). 10, R. 3 E. Minor. Land not
leasable on account of heavy timber.
215. Ke-she-she: Lots 1 and 2, sec. 5, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Allottee died last July.
Her heirs will lo<'ate upon and improve this allotment.
214. Ke-ah-qua-make: N. i of SE. i sec. 5, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child.
Land covered with heavy growth of timber and brush and not In demand.
213. Pah-ko-ne: S. i of NE. \ sec. 5, Twp. 10. U. 3 E. Allottee is widow. Her.
allotment being heavily thnhcred Is not leasable.
212. Ko-n«h-pah-pi-uk : S. 4 of SW. i sec . 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor da ugh t©r
of Kicking Chief Wa-pa-ho-ko. Ten acres of land, broken and In cultivation. I
paid a white man $48 out of my own private funds to break this land In an
effort to break up the Kicknpoo vllln^e. thinking that If 1 moved the Kicking
chief all would scatter out cm tlicir lands. This was in 1896.
211. Mah-tush-quw : N. ^ ot SW. I soc. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Minor son of
Chief Wa-pa-lio-ko. Land lieavy thnliered and brushy. Not leasable.
210. Wah -pah-ko-ko: S. i of NW. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 B. Woman chief
«f Kicking Kickapoos. Land not improved.
AFFAIRS OF THfi MEXICAN tlOtAPOO INDIANS. 2047
209. Mah-tah-wah: N. i of NW. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Husband of
Kicker chief. Old and Infirm. Land not very desirable.
208. Paw-skon : E. i of NB. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E.
207. Joe Whipple : W. i of NE. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E.
The two above are father and son and belong to the Progressive band.
206. Kah-ke-ka-thack : N. i of SE. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Land unim-
proved. Indian consiunptive. Will not lease.
205. Paw-kaw-kah : S. i of SE. i sec. 4, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Unimproved. Al-
lottee is an imbecile.
204. Na-mah-tho: S. i of SE. i sec. 3, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor child of
No. 201. Sold hay crop this season for $7.50.
203. Py-yo-kah : N. i of SE. i sec. 3, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Minor daughter of
201. Fair grass land.
202. Sho-e-nah-quah : S. i of SW. i sec. 3, Twp. 10, R. 3. E. Occupied by
Kicker relatives. Field of 4 or 5 acres inclosed.
201. Mah-me-she-kah-wah : N. 1 of SW. i sec. 3, Twp. 10, R. 3 E. Land can-
celed by Secretary of the Interior.
200. Wah-tah-tah: S. i of NE. i sec. 33, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Minor child of
invalid father. Sold hay\!rop this season for $5.
199. Mush-sho-qua-to-quah : E. i of the SE. 1 sec. 33, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Mhior
child. Status ^me as 200. Her father sold hay crop this season for $10.
198. Mah-she-nah: W. 4 of SE. i sec. 33, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Minor child. Hay
crop sold by parents for $7.50.
197. Mush-ko-quah : E. i of SW. i sec. 33, Twp. 11, R. 3 B. Allottee a woman.
Indians making hay on this land.
196. Ke-ah-nah: W. i of SW. i sec. 33, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Allottee invalid.
Hay cut by Indians.
195. Thomas Whipple: E. i of SE. i sec. 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. White man.
Indians say was never adopted.
194. Ke-sho-e-quah : N. i of NW. i sec. 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Minor child.
Land leased for $25 per annum.
192 and 193 derived $90 for grazing cattle this seasgn.
193. She-pah-tho-quah : N. i of NE. \ sec. 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Land inclosed
with substantial fence. Occupied by allottee and husband, who is a Kicking
Kickapoo. Land inclosed by him.
192. Me-nah-quah: Lot 4 and SE. i of NE. i sec . 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 EX Land
inclosed by allottee. Occupied by himself and wife.
191. Wah-ne-mah-quah : Lots 2, 3, 5, and 6, sec. 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Inclosed
by her husband with his allotment and used by them for grazing purposes.
190. Ah-Ko-the : W. i of SE. i sec. 31, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Inclosed by allottee
where he and family reside. Field of 10 acres In corn. Field made by Kick-
ing Kickapoo and Inclosed by them.
189. Pah-pe-ach : S. i of SE. i sec. 30, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Old squaw. Leased
at $25 per annum.
188. Ta-Ka-qua-the : N. i of SB. i sec. 30, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Allottee dead.
Land leased by heir for $25 per annum.
187. Nah-she-pe-eth : Lots 2 and 3 and SE. i of NW. i secr 30, Twp. 11,
R. 3 E. Minor child. Land leased at $25 per annum.
186. Ah-na-tho-the: Lot 1 and NE. i of NW. i sec. 30, Twp. 11, R. 8 B.
Single woman. Land leased for $25 per annum.
185. Ah-nah-tho-huck : S i of NE. i sec. 30, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Allottee is a
woman. Land leased at $25 per annum.
184. Wah-sha-ko-8kuck : N. i of NE. i sec. 30, Twp. 11, R. 3 B. Allottee
strictly indisposed. The only able-bodied Kickapoo who absolutely refuses to
labor.
183. Ah-ne-8ho-peah : S. i of SE. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Lives in the
Caddo country. Land not Improved.
182. Ni-ah-kee: S. i of SW. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Allottee dead. Land
leased by Ida B. Bentley, guardian for minor child.
181. Ah-them-esk-kah-mo : N. i of SW. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3. Orphan Kicka-
poo minor girl. Land leased by Ida B. Bentley, lawful guardian, for $25 per
annum. This, with allotment to 182, is inclosed by lessee — 100 acres In high
9tate of cultivation; good-sized frame farmhouse, barn, corrals, dugout, and
other improvements.
180. Peah-tuck-o-he : S. i of NW. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Leased at $26
per annum.
2048 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
179. Ne-pah-no-mo-quah : N. 1 of SE. 1 sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 B. Minor child
of 177. LaHd not leased.
17a Wah-pah-to-Kah : a 1 of NE. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R, a B. Minor child
of 177. Land not leased.
177. Ah-thum-e-thah-quah : N. i of NE. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 B. Kicker
Kickapoo woman. Wife of progressive Kickapoo and acepts her land.
176. Kah-ka-nah-che-kah : N. i of NW. i sec. 19, Twp. 11, R. 3 E. Allottee
has Sac and Fox wife and lives on her land in the Sac country. His allotment
here leased for $2.') per annum.
175, 174, 173, 172, and 171, who is the head of this family, whose allotments
comprise all the allotted land in sec. 18 Twp. 11, R. 3 E, has this year gone
upon the allotments of himself and family and put up hay, and made an
arrangement with a white man to cut some on shares, and now claims these
allotments as his own and his family's.
170. Ma-ko-the-quah : Lots 1 and 3, Twp. 11 (sec. 25), R. 2 B. Allottee is
the wife of a Sac and Fox Indian and lives hi the Sac country, and has leased
her allotment for $25 per annum.
169. Mes-quah-at: Lots 1, 6, and 7, sec. 24, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Allottee dead.
Land fractional, sandy, covered with brush and not leasable.
168. Mah-she-qua: Lots 5 and 9, sec. 24, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Allottee dead.
Land leased by heirs for $12.50 per annum.
167. Kah-kah-to-see : E. ^ of SE. h sec. 24, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Allottee has
Caddo wife and lives in Caddo country. Is a progressive Kickapoo. Lease
executed under me for $25 per annum.
166. Cat: Lots 2, 3, and 4, sec. 24, Twp. 11, R. 2 E. Progressive Kickapoo,
old and infirm. Land leased through me for $25 per year.
165. Wah-nah-ke-tha : Lots 1 and 2, sec. 14, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Old man. Re-
fuses to have anything to do with his allotment
Allottees 164, KW, 162, and 161, Ma-nah-the-qua-at, the mother and head of
this family who are severally allotted in sees. 13 and 14, Twp. 11, R. 2 EL, has
gone upon her individual allotment where she now resides with her family
and husband, a Kicking Kickapoo. They have erected an Indian house and
have during this season broken, put in cultivation and cultivated about 8 acres
of land, and are preparing to inclose the land belonging to her children.
160. Na-mah-che-tha-quah : Lots 3 and 4. sec. 13, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Old squaw.
Land covered with timber and brush, not leasable.
Allottees Nos. 159 and 158, embracing 158i acres of sec. 13, Twp. 11, R. 2 B.,
are minor children. Their allotments are covered with timber and are not
leasable.
157. Pa-nah-wah: N. i of XE. i of sec. 13, Twp. 11, R. 2 B. Allottee has Pro-
gressive wife and lives ui)on her allotment, which he has inclosed and im-
proved during the past year.
Allottees 156 and 155. embracing 160 acres of sec. 12, Twp. 11, R. 2 E., are
mother and daughter. Land sandy, covered with timber and brush, and not
leasable.
154. Wo-ta-mah-o-tha: S. ^ of NE. i sec. 12. Twp. 11, R. 2 E. Single man.
Land covered with timl)er and brush, unimproved, and of little value.
15.^ Isaac McCan : N. i of NE. i sec. 12, Twp. 11, R. 2 E. Allottee dead.
Progressive Kickapoo.
Allottees Nos. 152, 151. and 150, Ke-no-che, and her children, who are the heirs
of 149. Wah-pah-niah-shah-wah. d€H.^eased. whose allotments embrace the entire
W. i of sec. 12, IVp. 11. R. 2 E.. live up<m this tract and in common with the
widows, old men, and orphan children of the tribe and other allottees for whom I
have been unable heretofore to pnx'ure the neot^ssary implements and equip-
ments to enable them to occupy and improve their allotments. They cultivate
about 50 acres of this tract, which they have fenced and reclaimed since I
moved them back into the North Canadian Valley from Deep Fork. This tract
is better known as the Kickai)oo Springs or " village.'*
Allottees 148. 147, 146, and 145, the head of this family, whose lands embrace
the S. A of sec. 11. Twp. 11, R. 2 E., is unimproved, except the N. i of SE. i,
which the allottee has lcase<l through me at $30 per annum, he having elected
to reside up(m his wife's allotment, where he is now preparing to make a farm.
144. She-nah-tho-iKV E. A of SE. i sec. 2, Twp. 11, R. 2 E. Minor child. Land
covered with thin oak and timber. Not leasable.
Allottees 14.'*. 142, and 141, live upon and are improving the allotemnt of 141,
who is the husband and father of 142 and 143. They have erected a substantial
AWWASEB or TBK XEXICAX EJOLMFOO ISMASaH 2<M9
fieKie^ tff a vfrw sfnod Ar^ s£&iCiBflB» «f 141 xiui UOL awl ksuTc
i (MX Ubd p«lC &■ CHllSSVYldiMI a&A«lC % »^VI!» «< BKIUi.
f^ak-tA-^SAOL^tk-^fBth,: Iaq 7, ^ 1>. xarf Utt wn^ Mi Tw^s, 11* E. 2 C
DuB^&OM- 4r KHuitp KfidcaviM ISA. Uuud inm^ ma^. mmA ^npfcsc^ ir&8& htwA
(fci'.ftaaRiL AiHiAcaiatox <miiXiiKi»if xaA n*^ Smbstiiift:.
X;>. Xa^-w^&HM^ai«»-iili, : C $ 4f XE. t «^ IX Twpu IL R. 2 fi. Mbmt <
•( KiidD&r aliACCee K»X Lajui Ita^msA £t I2& pur afiiniinn
EiT, Msk-caifflHU^^A-^iTBai A : W, | ^f SEL | «w^ 21 Tw> 11* R. 2 C XSitXJMt *
fiSHL A^Hii»9-^i»Hif»gHfti( : C § ^W. « fe«^ 2L Twpu 11. R. 2 E. Fra^nuKir^^ KJdb-
a^vM;. Ijmd. jutatiuisi dxr-'/OK&i !ii« a^t IKO* ^mt arrimini, Hiss K«kcr wHm and Emes «■
JLiaCftftf 3fc-A 133^ 134. i:53v i:22L 131!. 13fr. 12»- 12S. 127. IK. 125u I2t 1231 122L
AII»c]:iH»» I2rj> AOti II1S^ ^ooiprlcfBiiS -i?h.72: a«<^trf»au «t ft:iu^ f«r i^niaaj Had
jyirtcafftft IL^ IIT* IK 11^ Hi ant prtfrssuiwt K'u^OL^jim,
I13L S>>^liHVi»-^na^ : E. f «e f^W, § «tf 9«^ 33L Tirpi. IX S. 2 IL AEMftM
tW .^ik.al»1^ ifmoi aoii md^fuimig 112 ft» S^ src pW94CR9^i«> gyfcifp^iWL
iiin»> Kii'ii:.ip*i«)« ^ittitAM^ Lma^ lokKift kv iUif ^«i» thxvsi^ omt u C& per
mk yinafcr laAHa^-flrt^^TBL^: W* § nf 3frB: i aeeu »i Twpi. IX R. 2 E.
ML W4J^JiiiHis»iirk<»rii>^-.''Vi^iL : E. f «< iLW | «& 3& Twpi. I2L R. 2 E, Dtkniglb-
de. 'WaJi-^v<i-(i:iJL : E. t '^t! XE. i MC^ 3K^ Twpu 12L R. 2 £. Pini«ireHhre
dCL MiiKiL-«Hii»mr«: E. i 4€ ffE. i »!f»^ 3^ Twpt 12. R. 2 R. PrniSSMiKvcr Ka^Sa-
*>t «(^naHj>-;7i:i!i ; E. t ^.€ *^- | «kl 12K Twpt 12; R. 2 BL W^A'm, AOst-
■Mm aa'«c T«»r7 <^»!H7aAii»^ Xi iminiirj !:*> "jitAm: iL.
Si Wi-v-ritaHinTj'^-^^^-rhi*-' W, t ^^ ^^- i 9KsfL rS^ Twpu 12. R. 2 E. MSMr
e&Ar:i**% iial:^ '^t ^ftf*, i:>. T^v> 12: R. 2 E[^ ^ ^fTvsk of w^t& Chi*?' ii:t.7-<fr w^atwd
SI. P^Hii.^i*»-4ji--£.i:i-V"*i»- - '*'' t ""'^ *E- i *«if-:- L*^ Twx^. I2L R. 2 R Kxker
^TL WAw-5i*i:n-<i:i^-i.*-»&i»-a<'^TTtt: W, i #»if SW. i ntc;. la^ Twpu 12L R. 2 E;.
Flrr.igr»»5»i-»* <-ii*<!i*n.%*«l ,\llt'.ciii*ii* •^;C*j*j«j*»1
^Dl WATr-^#i-piii!i£-iD%-*ha : Uirjk '^ ami fif, *^i!^ 25- Twpu 12; R. 1 E;. Ka^ecs-
"a. Tarpii->:i^ - Lr^rji :» :i-,l M. ^ #if ;?£. t *»•- 25u Twpt I2L R. 1 EL Kj>/±at
TT. K-i^-^Ci»-v.G---!-'-ji;ii . L6C I* «j* 2*^ ami I xmi 2 «cf rHK^ 25u Twpt. 12; R. 1 EL
•X Xia-l-CVH:* : SL § if 5E. i wer^ it Tttj. I2l R. 1 E. CdtiMr w^wiaa.;
7^ MAhrmn^i-T^-^tih: E. j of 5E. | «t^- il. Tw^ 12. R. 1 E. Stacs^^ naa;
" ii»a*Hf 'xr^,*jri zLtr f .c jn:i p#^ a^nn mn.
TIL A:i--*r.-7^-«*i-a: Tj.^-^ 4 4M 5^. 4«r, 2Sv Tt»> 12 R. I EL Fimisrpjmwfc.
Aaisrri**** '^ 7L t:iii 71, «niicfa-ia^ 2#> a»»in» •'if aft*^ 2J4. T^»p. 12l R. I EL sr«
JkOtitTiH^ T'>. "Tf. "^^ ^-VZr O; ^ ^Liiid <M atOK j^^snflK^^flw vtdk v^ij^it aCaIxs I
2050 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Allottees Nos. 63, 62, nnd 61 are Kicking Klckapoos, whose lands are neither
leasr^d nor improved. Allottees live at Kickapoo Springs and have a large
crop of corn and cotton on other Kicker land.
GO. Maud Jones: Lots 2, 3, and 5, Sec. 21, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Dead. Land
not leased nor improved.
59. Ah-me-ah-quah : Lots 1 and 4, sec. 21, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Allottee deceased ;
Kicker. Forty acres of her allotment leased through me by Kicker heirs, at
$1.5 I)er annum.
58. Sah-ah-peah : Lots 6 and NE. i of the NB. 1 sec. 21, Twp. 12, R. 1 E.
Leased N. i of said allotment through me at $12 per annum. Reserving; south
half for his own use and cultivation, together with his deceased daughter's
land.
Allottees 57, 56, and 55 are progressive Kickapoos, with whose land I have
had nothing to do.
54. Ko-ke-kah-pah-quah : Lots 1 and 4, sec. 16; lot 5 of sec 17, and lot 1 of
sec. 20, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Minor Kicker. Land not improved.
53. Cam-kah-tho : NE. i of NW. i and lot 2, sec. 16, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Kicker
allottee, deceased. Forty acres leased by heirs at $10 per annum.
52. Pam-mo-thah-hah : W. i of NE. i sec. 16, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Allottee is a
woman. S. i of allotment leased at $15 per annum.
51. Tah-ko-me: E. i of NE. i of sec. 16, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Kicker allottee,
deceased. S. i of allotment leased by widow at $15 per annum.
50. Net-tah-ko-eh-quah: E. i of SE. i sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Dead. Lands
BO poor heirs find no lessee. •
Allottes 49, 48, and 47, We-ah-che-kah, widow and minor children, embracing
240 acres sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. I^astnl at $62.50 per annum.
46. Sha-kah-ta : E. i of NE. 1 sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Progressive minor.
45. Ke-ke-e-quah : W. ^ of NE. sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Progressive woman.
Land leased through me, at $50 per annum.
44. Mo-ke-she: E. i of the NVV. i sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Progressive
woman (deceased). Land leased through me by her heirs, at $30 per annum.
43. O-que-mah-ah-them : W. i of NW. i sec. 15, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Progressive
allotte(\
Alottees 42, 41, 40, and 39 are progressives, with whose lands I have had
nothin;;: to do.
38. Wah-me-ah-thal : W. i of NW. i sec. 14, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Progressive.
Land leased through me while assisting Special Agent Oglesby, for $60 per
annum.
Allottees Nos. 37, 36, 35, 34, 33 are progressives, with whose lands I have
had nothing to do.
32. Ke-ah-ho-ko-quah : E. ^ of SW. i sec. 13, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Kicker woman.
Is willing to lease her allotment.
Allottees Nos. 31 and 30 are progressives.
29. Sho-wah-kah; Ix)ts 2 and 3 sec. 20, I^ot 11 of sec. 17, and 2 and 3 of
sec. 18, Twp. 12. R. fl B. Aged squaw. Willing to lease, but land too poor to
be in demand.
Allottees 28 and 27. Me-thup-pe-hah and child. Are willing to lease.
Allottees 26, 25, 24 and 2:\, 22. 21, 20, 19 are progressive Kickapoos, with
whos<' lands I have had nothing to do except one allotment, which was leased
through me, at $30 per annum.
Allottees 18, 17, and 16 were allotments of Kicking Kickapoos canceled by
reason of being double.
15. Me-she-kah: I^ots 3 and 4, sec. 7, Twp. 12, R. 1 B. Allottee lives in Caddo
country. Refuses to lease or occupy her allotment.
14. Kah-ke-mah: E. i of NE. \ of sec. 7, Twp. 12. R. 1 B. Old and infirm.
Entire allotment in high state of cultivation. Ixmsed, at $80 per annum.
l.'{. Noah-hock : Lot 7, sec. 6, lots 1 and 2, sec 7, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Allottee
dead.
12. Tah-pah-she: E. i of SE. i sec. C, Twp. 12, R. 1 E. Old woman. I>and
leased through me, at $45 per annum. Land in possession of one Woodruff,
through Agent Patrick, without a lease, and refuses to give possession to parties
who hold an approved and legal lease.
Allottees 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, and 6, embracing all of sec. 6 except lot 7 and E. ^ of
SE. i. Inclosed and In possession of one Woodruff, through Agent Patrick,
who put them in pf)S8ession with<»ut the constmt or signature of these allottees,
who are now absent in the Caddo country.
AKMOBB im THE mmcAy KKaLnoa uommsb, 9051
^T4> lad fi<Ti<'lf<|r 1A» du.
i fon&er sdiacjT tlcat tke Klddou? Kxlca^w ladiit «1m» priw «i>i> a^yr
x}f(*{.*iLrL2±ieD^ itfT^r 49Lmt]d a 3)i«t9j t^r thur iabor for vliiibEr fmc^Ae JUi4 vto
4ift?vT«d jUd* rer^acw «r iiesi«sfil £p«bi fteor allftajwiJL bow <■» and dienT« i«
Hnj iitftAt xisd vM bgr K34E«r aJk«iiB(S |wr aaumi S^Jl W
wj^-unt-t-j*- Tfti inirT«c thwr Iuqt cs«f* in 1. 5ft
fc*T*t;ii*' fjiwiii KJ'.-£«- l»«iitf l.^tl'Xai
iS*T*sj-ot 4*rjT«d fpMBi uijkza? «M*dc a» fumae l*Cu4©
*&tT* »C»r<4 -em fCDd «»M tfjr tntOrmmmi 9MfL4^
OwTt ni«w3 Aii4 v.\xt ^CilW
Otci'.« '.rcif- jLcfedc* Vj Kj^fcii* K^iaLUjrxs llii* wa^mm <m.$4^
ISier-tsuat 'r:aL x^>^'iW w'T-wb JLMOlW
^^uxLiKV •'.tf Ki^^KWf -v^ ljcfcT.f iiHficiiMr idnnifitid vjit^ sad <Jiaai tiheir SasMl. IX.
aBorcr Tittiii j-CiQ^ «£ptf -ctf tMn ibtt will ^t-r^frapt su^jre liuui 3(^ koiteslf i» tke
4t*3«CL III t>4d:TJcA Vji liuf: ^<«.iC< ImriMii*^ -ctf ••MCL. ti^ hsYie c«t mmd fUMtaed aa
»j>& dr>i-:S cr^iuL I^uiim^ *v4ie: ;«uaiiM9iL 4L]id otftm' t^jbkililUcb. As iitj rt?«Qrt
«dH»w« il»»7 iiiTv* iut,6e ai ^iiexT t:Tri(3kr v^mrnT^ m^-f^^^^.^t njiA wfutiMM^ «ad
I WsljeT^ ii £«;-n 3i! *^ATvt <A yiiTv,n& viko* «ia csHidmcr tftai Acst^m: ^nT jutKafle
«xid jvQdeii'f^ -Littii tilt- •»^'>r: *A ilieittr }ie«!(-we aier^u ibcay Hict* «iO aaoa iirwif
J£-.«i Pcsf^^AtticTiJJj KiLiuJtliHdL
IfLumar J. BcvxuT.
M^pifcM Ajmttmmi C £. /«diiM JjKai.
L )lftn±L J. BionSHT. ^jur^j^ 4ilIj affirzmidL disdlinr liie I'^A't^f.iiiiic ia* be a me
^M« uii6«- ITT *±tiirpft-
Mjumx J. BornjEKi
CncTft Bccuc
rai«0d StmU» im4mm l%*yix»m.
Jl$r I-Abt. ?•: 7:iij*ridai::i:'i** I* ;itrl£uKrLfc-.i«Hd f:H£.25
Lt i:at £=i:»:llt i-.^ 'jwajjs l-ft-l-'-lft
Tc :ifc.li-Li'.it ^3$
Aji. i. 7c":ifc;tt.^»t fy^m
: ia ..••. ■ • ^b-*^ ♦0»-4y»
?.; :..v-.> -- .^' 2-S
4 >..v.i.> •":-:i.^ Si
i :*.»Vj?* • frir ,> .K«
* 'ft-. -=i '!"''^" ""'["'!'. ]]]"['!'"1II^^1III U
J XI rM --■- VO^ W
1 iKttilart ;t.rar-.** Lfi&
2052 AFFAIB8 09 THB MEXICAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
1898.
Apr. 1. Ma na the qua, No. 2:
2 pounds sugar 10.15
10 pounds meat 76
25 pounds flour 60
1 niri i>jikiii^ powiier 10
\h fiouiHl!* salt, . . , 16
6bariJHoap 25
1 [Kjuml cuffee 16
Tilieans. 80
Was CO tate, No. 3:
J gallon molasses 20
2 pounds sugar 16
to J Mum Miff iLitfHt 60
25 fK)un<i^ Hoar 60
1 can 1)akin^' j>r»wder 10
15 iKiimUn ?all 15
6 bare soap 26
1 pound coffee 15
Ki kapooh, No. 4:
4 pounds sujrar 25
2 pounds coffee 25
50 pounds flonr 1. 25
2 cans baking powder 20
Nee hu nee ha, No. 7:
25 pounds flour 60
4 pounds Hii^ar 25
1 pound coffee 15
1 pound baking powder 10
Ki kaiK>oh, No. 8:
50 jjounds flour 1. 25
2 pounds l)aking iK>wder 20
Ah Ko cho, No. 9:
50 pounds flour 1. 25
1 pound baking powder 10
2 pounds coffee 25
4 pounds sugar 25
1 gallon molasses 40
} bushel potatoes 50
Ki kapooh. No. 10:
4 pound-i Hujrar 25
2 poundn coffee 25
50 pounds flour 1. 25
2 pounds baking powder 20
Wa Pe che que, No. 11:
50 pounds flour 1. 25
4 pounds snjrar 25
2 pounds coffee 25
1 pound baking powder 10
1 gallon sirup 40
«2.46
2.20
1.96
Johnnie Mine, No. 5:
4 pounds sugar .25
VVa Pa Hoeo, No. 6:
50 pounds flour 1. 25
4 ix)und8 sugar 25
2 pounds coffee 25
1 baking powder 10
8 pounds meat 60
2.45
29.25
1.10
1.45
2.75
1.95
S.S5
MMTAT KKXtfVIO JMBiMSm. SOBS
M§K. t, E kwM&. 3P9L 12:
1 fens&ti pAOAitti $L9§
2 pr^ixni^ 'W dfeft , S
IiH) pr<iiiii^ ii)iir ^ ,. £.3[|»
2 ^imdkf rw^nv^ pfi'Wfliitr - ^ .9
I o^fixbi ^jii^tat^ ,1 ,25
4 pfionii* •aBadtftCi , ,3*
fiL«
1 fomui 'tadlMt .15
I pDnmt bftkaur jwwiflr .M
4 ^jnndii ma^x ....- , .S
.»
Jlpc lA. CsianiMb^ So. 14:
U flBuIimi* odL - . Lflf
]±.m*anft _ %m
S^ pciuui^ itinr ,M!
1 p<:iuiii b»kimf puw^iw, .1*
^ ponmiH' 3ii*fls , . .Mi
3 ptmm^f ifitzar .15
2 50>mii» M;&!ft- S
!.»
^A E* ant 5ii. :H:
^ ffftonrift au»flc .W
*) ^fumijft liiiixr L9i»
J joimii i&Hk m
I oivmii "yftj^ur p»jwi»r , 19
2Q«e9i«'^ --/- 1i^
I ^silna 3ii;uiMK» .49
t.»
£ K ki. 9bi ir:
5 oinniiiif limir ,, . .Mf
i T^iixni^ ''xAtt ,J5
4 pfvmi^ fnoosr .S
Ii) pcnzuitt aiif»ac .^. ^3i>
I pr^mxii -.Afirnr ^r.w^fer . .)ii
lamaiCM:^ r It
%m
JLJx ThxvoL A£3utr 5^v l^t
5 pr.nmis ii'.nr ^'. .«Hr
4pi}iinii)» ffiiar ^ «S
Ipoixmis tndft* .S
i pciiiii^ Urisi: , .Ar
1 >:nmi bfccair pcwtfer . .!§
2 '::«7»4rAC -I .Mi
1 ^mii !rii'JD»z» soii <*h«fl>flit .9
2.»
Tbit li je Si. I*:
fi ^r.nrufa ±:nr 4ft
4 prnmif fmctr .S
1 ^#:imf! 'jfciTiinr 5»:w<fer -laV
2 innmii* v;ffi*ft,l .2S
^ pcnmifi !ui>as .M>
1 ^*rf iTA^ .!<>
Lm
25 cr.nni^ i-.iir . -«-
4^,IIIlii» 'HXtE37 -25
I'^juui ^s.tbest V\
ft Tcnmttf ji»»ac . Hl>
1 aoond Jaakaagyi pihr. . , • ^«^
Apr. 25. Ma na thr pne, No. 29:
25 pounds flour 60
1 pound baking powder 10
4 pounds Mi»?ar 25
8 pounds meat 60
Ah Ko the, No. 30:
25 pounds flour 60
-* 25
Vp 15
Sv 60
1 {>onn(l baking p<jwder 10
1 gallon molaases 40
$1.70
1.70
1.80
2054 A7FAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
1898.
Apr. 23. Ka Keu ah Reah, No. 21:
25 pounds flour $0. 60
4 pounds eu™ 25
1 pOun<ct coffee 15
8 poundi rneiU 60
• 1 pound baking powder 10
Oh Ke me, No. 22:
25 pounds flour 60
4 pf HI ndn i^w^nr 25
1 poll n<i cofh^e 15
8 poumJe meat 60
1 pound baking powder 10
Ta Na Ke, No. 23:
25 pmiiRU flour 60
4 i»oundii sugar 25
1 pound coffee 15
8 pouniiB meat 60
1 ixjuml Iwiking powder 10
2 bare soap 10
Wa pa che que, No. 24:
25 pounds flour 60
4 ponnsin ^ii-ar 25
1 p^jijtiii iMkinir powder 10
8 pounds me«l , 60
1 ImihIl^I iHittf.Mfl 1.00
1 pound coffee 15
2.70
Mes cu tate, No. 25:
1 pound baking jKjwder .10
Par the, No. 26:
25 poundH flour 60
4 poun<l& Hus^ar 25
1 poutidfoffee 15
8 p Ml ndii ini^at 60
1 pound baking powder 10
1.70
Ki Kapooh, No. 27:
115 pounds potatoes 1. 95
We CO ta, No. 28:
25 pounds flour 60
1 pound baking powder 10
1 pound coffee 15
4 pounds meat 30
4 pounds sugar 25
1.40
1.55
2.10
MWTMmm or ns MMnrAS mscsjUKaf oibcils&. Mi5&
Fi«nr ;, _ IlLiW
t biuHtei -;i:r3rne»- - fL.i»
i i^iisiiiii r:i!fl» . 25'
1L»
ctmi *jtiiiwiULr Si. .!&
i5 3«iiuiiiif diiiir .W-
4 pi-.nniiH' -HKBir ^^ ,25
i 3«-.iiniU» "iSi*«* « -. . S
i pA'.iiiiitiif Uk:;:a ,,, ,»W
I piiimii ;i»iCinir pflwfer— ^ .1*1
1.9
Apr iML S[ii'.kJoniui& Jo. ^:
I<M3«iimiitfiniiF * fll
2i\ iriinii» TIMK L -H*
4 5»nin:** "ftjiiuf 3«w«:er ..-»)
:l'3«mniat »".&ft-.I- , L«W
*! bar»«uis ,i5
4«
Stta^ 2* Ci'kaoanhg. %i. Rl
3Iiii!hini»»,,-' r 20
BtlX I7F>:iMf»- lij
.»
Sttff- 7- Eii * kiih* Si. :ffi:
25 9#inniti* irtnr 'iS'
'1 3#;iini:t* ^uzar . , ^La-
I 3«:iiiii: T.ffit*** Lf
* iftimitt* jii*iit: « _ ,40
I i'.imit ^iij:.nsg ir.'vtur ,. . !•]
L©
O. ±ii»t 300. S:. Jfl:
-111 3oiinjij» inir , I. -ttl
J.1 ';♦ iinitH ii»»ar ,,_ .7]
1 ^iiniir. MiAznis gn^'Zisr _ ..la
liMjvatiB •'■.&» I _ .25
Jjcmiita -Hucir ... .1.1
i«-
Pah ?;ii 3f»*iin'c ihit S:. ir-
25 5#'.nr.itt» irjir TJJ
i wiTuii* -HUCir., -. ,- ,15
t pr.iia*: 'a-cjur ;;c»v iirr , -I«l
ri»:iiin'j» ii»*ac ,1 ...fi)
2 i;iiiiii» •.nffii*<t. 25
L7J
25. ?ir-;i.* 5i:. I»:
25 ;;r.»iui:i* ii'.iir "7}
.1 :#'.ii:uti* «itiar ,. _. .IT
i; irji:ii 'i* iii*:i'" _ .An
Iwuiii tt-tuur ":«■.'¥' :i*r .11
L«
♦. HH x*t n: !rr . y.:. ;JV
3il ;.:i:::.:i* ir.ir L*l
2 "♦•:::•':• -miliar. ,_ .15
2 :• "i::*::* •' rftH* - 25
11 r :♦ Hill lif m.- nt*iir - .*«)
I "3#:iiri«: '.iticrur ":• •▼ i»*r 10
i.7\
?T/ -JJL 5«:. 4*>
iSl ;« .:::.> i.-.ir, 1 41)
ir ■;♦»:■.: I :h r:»»;ir I^2fl
I aui :Art TiU- ;*.*¥ :t*r . .IS
JlH
2056 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIABTS.
1898.
May 25. Kickapoohs, No. 41:
1 pouDd baking powder $0.10
($3.00) 109.25
Kickapoohs, No. 42:
100 pounds flour 1. 50
1 pound baking powder 10
6 pounds coffee (paid) 75 *
25 pounds meat 1. 85
4.20
Par the, No. 43:
50 pounds flour 1, 60
16 pounds meat 1. 00
1 can baking powder 10
2.60
Sha pe thi, No. 44:
Merchandise, per order 5. 00
May 26. Kickapoohs, No. 45:
25 pounds flour 70
8 pounds meat 65
1 pound coffee 16
1 pound baking powder : 10
2 oars soap 10
2 pounds sugar 16
Tobacco 10
l.«6
Wa pa ho ko, No. 46:
60 pounds flour 1. 40
4 pounds sugar 25
1 pound baking powder 10
11.2 pounds meat 80
4 pounds coffee 26
2.80
May 30. O ke ma, No. 47:
50 pounds flour 1. 60
By cash 1.00
25 pounds flour 76
Jane L Ke ah ken o pan, No. 48:
25 pounds flour 75
20 pounds sugar 16
1 pound coffee 15
8.2 pounds meat 65
1 pound baking powder 10
1.80
(13.20)
127.65
Pah nah me no kothe, No. 49:
25 pounds nour 75
2 pounds sujrar 15
2 pounds cofcfee 25
8.2 pounds meat 65
1 pound baking powder 10
1 tx)x axle grease 10
2.00
Mrs. Johnson, No. 50:
25 pounds flour 76
2 pounds sugar 16
1 pound baking powder 10
8. 2 pounds meat 66
2 pounds coffee 26
2 bars soap 10
S.00
A17AIBS OF THB MSXIQAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2067
June 1. Ah ko the, No. 51:
60 pounds flour $1.60
2 pounds coffee 25
4 pounds sugar 25
16 pounds meat 1.00
1 pound baking powder 10
5 pounds apples 40
6 pounds beans 25
8 bars soap 15
1 pound crackers 10
Cash 1.00
50 pounds flour 1.40
4 pounds su^r 25
1 pound baking powder 10
8.2 pounds meat 65
2 pounds coffee • 25
6pounds beans 25
By cash, $7.90.
Men e the qua. No. 52:
2bar88oap 10
24 pounds meal 35
25 pounds flour 76
8.2 pounds meat 65
1 pound baking powder 10
2 pounds coffee 25
10 pounds salt 10
} bushel potatoes 30
2 pounds sugar 15
$7.90
2.75
Kickapoohs, No. 53:
25 pounds flour 75
1 pound coffee 15
2 pounds sugar 15
2 bars soap ip
1 pound baking powder 10
8} pounds meat 65
By cash, $2.
142.30
1.90
June 11. Wes ko the, No. 54:
Merchandise 1. 75
Par the, No. 55:
25 pounds flour 75
2 pounds sugar 15
8.2 pounds meat 65
1 pound baking powder 10
2 pounds coffee 25
1.90
A ko the, No. 56:
Sugar 10
By cash, $0.10.
Shar pe the. No. 57:
By cash (Bentley), |5.
O ke ma, No. 68:
4 pounds sugar .25
27813— S. Doc. 215, 00-1— vol 3 12
2058 AFFAIRS OF THB MXXIOAK KIOKAFOO INDIANS.
June 11. Ke ah ken a pen. No. 59:
25 pounds flour 10.75
8.2 pounds meat 65
2 pounds sugar 16
4 loaves bread 10
Candy 05
} pound tea 20
July 5. 1 pound crackers 10
$2.00
July 28. ByM. J.Bentiy 5.00
July 14. Fa me noch o the, No. 60:
Merchandise 8.00
Merchandise 80
2 bars soap .10
} bushel potatoes .80
1 pound honey 15
8 pounds peacbes 25
12 pounds meat 1. 00
Merchandise 4.90
8.00
By cash, $8.
By cash, $2.
July 18. Shah peak. No. 61:
Merchandise 5.00
Wa me she ka, No. 62:
Merchandise 5. 00
July 26. Pau ah wa, No. 63:
4 pounds coffee 50
50 pounds flour 1.25
16 pounds meat 1. 00
4 pounds su^ 25
1 pound bakmg powder 10
i bushel potatoes 25
8 loaves bread 25
Candy 05
Tobacco 10
1 box axle grease 10
6 pounds lard 50
*4 pounds sugar 25
5.00
By cash, $5.
Tnly 27. Wa pa hoko, No. 64:
25 pounds flour 75
8 pounds sugar 20
2 pounds coffee 25
1 pound baking pow<U*r 10
1 Dox beef 15
1 pound crackers 10
} pound crackers 05
By cash, $1.60.
June 18. 0 ke ma, No. 65:
By cash, $0.85.
0 uia to pua, No. 66:
Merchandise 1. 10
June 25. Kish ke me kote, No. 67:
50 pounds flour 1. 50
16 pounds meat 1. 00
2 pounds baking powder 20
4.2 pounds sugar 30
2 pounds coffee 25
1.60
3.25
176.25
2f ^ramidt ifimiT — ,.-_^ . 9D''9^
J yuimc ^Miiirhig: ywOHt. -Off*
.I'pmxxitt inifiafe . . ^S
Z jjtBfUBSt jsBaa ^JP
iS ^noinidi supBtr . . . . ^ !&
«L»
Sac vkx ifftR. 3RiL fit:
!K jMnxnfit jbnzr . ,JBS^
ll^jnmiidt^akw^fifm'dm ^IP
S jHnnifli sqvr «IR
U.W
H ^HmnG oBifix — — «iIS
3 ^mnc maaaaam -31'
1 tKSiMkmfiD -3I»
1 iidk^beS -S
i ibfs ^atec -•
-«
3m R* J&. IRn. TI:
i 'puuudf ^xSe^: . -:3K
•# junwiffr ^igtp' r J — — —— —_ .-35»
.i>r>
Sot g^X. fii.m
Jkili: 2£ ?!^ Jx» TUsk veA^ %^. 73t:
SftsnnimitbK^ fi.tK»
BrtaUL M ."^ limxliBDr, Ja.ifll>
jAoif:. A >BL & ^io^ lii. :%:
SI -licimitt' ftmr IL I**
1 jfiiuiic uuciu^ jmwte*. .ll»
4 9iiimtk cfli£»fc ^Sb
4 VDlXlltH^ mCEBT --. -3B
ir jfnnute- lUiflC -"S
Stduzl — >— ^ ..3^
ICiiiMfSfft' ..2f»
£ WP
XtarjiffliidiRr I tj. WU
•Qwdxft -- 7f :«'
3411 il»
Bar JC 7 . ^tmrtte^ wait KJeiBas'Wttm. ixT 2Wfc ri
'tis iBJBU'j^iiiqBic T>fc ji'
4r til^ IE BiiBv^xHf^ C>t:ifc . "Sioc m. «» nrasr tf Martii. J. limiisar. jiimurK fli««cui
ifaf: kiTStmir Hiiscuinfi ludiaxK. ant tiif^ TomirDisc if xl kshzshk cc^n* if hm i«t«i»t:
tSRfdc BL «ait n'}*tiini: ii ▼iiuil aut i^ -riram Biwmic -ftiifc. ttnnzif^if^ 'thm fljte*:!-
tfafd a ii»v% HI Tir-iiie» KSLinmaE,.
♦niiagyhiHf taiL Hfll-TTiftC H. IWUCR: lUir lU SQ&L ter if liBpmmiiHBC. 3Sifi:
Imte£ jtoaor Judtcn. jumamstmL
2060 A7FAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO nTDUNB.
Exhibit No. 37 [Goode].
Testimony ofKoketha eoneeming the eouncU held at McLoud, the ISth day ofAuiguti^ 1898.
By iRBPSCfTOB:
Q. Did 7<m sign that papei?— A. Yes.
Q. Ib tmit paper all traer—^A. Some of it Is trae: some of it is not .
Q. What part is true? — A. Borne dav a man called him to come over to Mclx>ad.
Wlien I came to McLoud , then he askea me the question. The man said then ' * Wash •
ington sent me here." The man says, ''I come to find out what Bentley has done."
He said Washington sent Bentlev to work for the Kickapoos here. Washing:ton
■aid he sent Bentley here to set Kickapoos to work and to help them that did work.
He says I want to know wheuer Bent;Jey does what he has been saying he has been
sent here to do; and Ko ke tha says, "Go to the kicking Kickapoos, thev will tell
you all about it" If he would, if I would say anything about it it woola be a lie,
and what is i^'the paper that I did say is a lie. That man asked me if Bentley
gave anybod)r anythmg to eat I said sometimes thev eo and see him, and if they
need it he fives them something. I said that is all i know about Mr. Bentley.
The man asked me if Mr. Bentley ever came to look around thdr places and see
if they did any work. I answered he didn't come himself, but he sent the farmer
and made me a well. That is all I said about Mr. Bentley.
Q. Would you like to say any more about this papei?— A. I juat toid you what I
said at McLoud.
Q. Do you think Mr. Bentley is a good man, or a bad man?— A. I don't know
Bentley much.
Q. In this paper you say Mr. Bentley didn't do anything for you. How much corn
have you got planted? How many acres?— A. I think about 18 or 20 acres.
Q. How much cotton? — A. Pretty near two acres.
Q. Who helped you get that com and cotton? Who showed yon how to use
the machine to plant the cotton? — A. Mr. Clark.
Q. Who sent Mr. Clark to show you?— A. I went for him myseli
Q. Who employs Mr. Clark ? — A. He is the appointed farmer.
Q. Did Mr. Bentley ever have a council with your band of Indians? — ^A. I don't
know that.
Q. You never knew of his holding any council with your band of Indians, with
Oc que noc o sa? — A. I don't know of any such.
KoKBTHA (his X mark).
Witness to signature —
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 23d day of September, A. D. 1808.
Cyrus Bbbdb,
Uniled States Indian Inspector.
Q. Oc que noc o sa, has Mr. Bentley ever held any council with your band of
Kickapoos on any subject?— A. No.
Oc Qux HOC o SA (his X mark), C%i^.
Witness to signature-
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 23d day of September, A. D. 1808.
Ctbus Bbedb,
XJnUed StaUs Indian Insp€ctor,
Ko KB TEA, recalled, testified as follows:
By Inspector:
Q. Were you at the Sac and Fox Af?ency and siiped thfs paper the 14th day of
July, 1898? — A. No; I never wa« there, and didn't sign it.
Q. Where is Toe eoinme? This paper is signed by Toe oomme.— A. That is my
boy, and he has never been at the* agency.
Q. How old is that boy?— A. 18.
Ko KB THA (his X mark).
Witness to signatare—
Mr^ W. W. Boon,
"^rmwu^jkis mrmiFoo fywiXK 9061
M.AS CSS 9SB 9SB MfFii'ii» fli IbDmkil
*i^ X*^ jnc «ver aifoi xcj ?wer *Sbb jui!i|iui9ud H:* ^ fopiKifi im iftoc Sbv*. sud
i^sai£^ A^ giK* ssK' I' » jmt nt^nei. tammumf Xe. Bexdh'?— J. J^ll ^igK- jw^
JfljIkX CBS KB SK ^^OE X 2
^ Pt' jrBE i3ii«ir Ml. Ben^T''^ — ^ T-he. sr: I fcDi«ir imiL
<jlt- Hi**" innr ii«a% TtTit intwT. Imn* — JL. JLtfuim istevt j^bbss.
<Qj fifir lour iaapt t^ib "tiaaii ir laiff jjumnffT'* — A^ Eapsr fons^ ift*> fi^fBEimi^ X &ad
iffiBL iiof^ iima?% -diic:: obzu^ ^t^ jc laK^ {^mmic.
«Qj, WIjh: » T^irr ~tmaxtH!» i»sr^' — JL Jvbti^f: jsaeaBr «f Xjii^apiL
<i Hinr niTiia. ^imic iirnt jcie jcrn: 'kaattt irnn. liit Sa^kE^:^ — A- ^^^on: 13W> kb<bb.
<^ Vlii die ]p{ir joBf^ iziQK jBDd «d^ — X. 3 JtuoHC at jan insL C^uiioHii <Oi:iiia^.
l&t -wht -ihM: ±xi .Hjiismr kcsic isuc ^n» iio-k ^ittcml m^sasL I iisMBcifl :&x«r «i|«iisia^
<Rrg ur ^wytfi «iBtC2i» 3-aiL "tan, inc^ ifrgai. ^Kandk^ fir Wasas^i gfiwr^- tspf) cu^iiLiw
*Q. Tut usv^ Q^iiHr tmemMf "irisL «piheii2 vt -liiwii?— JL Tefe. flk-
^ 'Tlri a: 7 lit ir. trs: -k ai»t jnic "SiiBD -stif oatirt?— JL I ndafi iD^OKiSB^iiwaraR'
i*»- -vTtf i*w* s: 'Sliirfrijitif GKmt' tanr^ <aiiot ^ iucidb^.. 1 i^alippfe
t^l^ &- -votf T'KTadr'* {iier^*-^ — ^JL T«6. osi Jkess lanif- Q aimBfi is^iimJat a j{s» iraiii
Jfty i»«rru.-j i& w» mufc isnc 3 2imm6«c "R !«■» imxL "Jiriacitw^. bnx Jfti. 2»Hin:rT ^aA
V Strx»%^ TPin *re*x ;#w«L 5n»er it "siit Tnn'. kdi Fia JLpaurx -r. laaikit m jsaat* — JL. %u,
mr. n If -*:»: iisr kwl} *:»: m Ttgrifj.
•fe T:tl sul *. "fel ii'.'V HiiiLT*' — ±. 5i:.. sir-
^ TiTL "1:1 iTx ":2i*r* iim •.♦*«i 51' rf "Siiaii.'' — JL. Tt«.. ar: cr niTTPt.
<i 5t*4a. nl*; "niiHi nasi 7 THTrt'jH^f lAJroS^ — ;!- 3 •&ni'*i knr^. tnn 3 dos'^ t#«Rf«xit'*aatt
3iiin,7__ 2>*!r:p'*»«L Tv»iirrr mji Irrj
-^ nnj^ i»* lAiiii* t^ zmz liHf :»**«L aoDt w iar ik tphi: knpv* — JL T«e fflr: jtf i«r uf
3 dii^ 2:: liit* :»**yL oiiit* "ci-''!Taci. imx*
5^, H'.'v f* Lii*7 ii V ni'.c* :iiflT»a«tt •»• v:iri' — A Ti»pT upb^ inn cifn»:»t«*<t l: 6'.
■irnsiiiir iDTi'ir "ui»*\T !'.»idn»*«t 'Sij*nirtw;^'** 1: liidun. *x!iljap«ft iHrtn.— kthkih iiir*L*!r^::
nil* "Liifj :^ir v.n: 1:11: :;ui- rr.; Ttitu* !:i ^ buc finL n
•Vt- JJT'^iiinjr *'i***^ * — i_ Tit*'^ iisrrL «.iii»*: nitir* "Eixin. vit^ dii. a r^»:c cha^.
iftiraiici Kj l*-*: " ' f IKK ;. - i»^ iitx* Humt itai««l: jl "Ui^juri inn., ^ii nuri. tiitn
tCitfix' iiBr»«t l****?: i^niv-etL
2062 AFFAIB8 OF THB MBXICAN KIOKAPOO INBUNB.
Q. Yoa live among them? — ^A. Not amone the kickere; among the progressives.
Q. You lease from the proeressiveB?— A. Yes, air; I think so.
Q. Do you know of any ol theee^ Indians living or making money by taking in
stock to pasture? — A. I have hesid it talked about Shawnee there that they had
pasture — pasturinff town cattle aud other stock— making money out of it.
Q. When Mr. Bently took charge, was the reserve ail open?— A. Yes, sir; except
a few little places— very few places that were not open.
Q. How IS it now? — ^A. It is entirelv different; fenced — a good part of it is fenced
by Indians and by leasers. When Mr. Bently first took hold they were living on
IJeep Fork, off of the reservation.
Q. Who got them back onto the reservation? — ^A. As I understand it, Mr. Bently
brought them back and caused them to improve their places.
Q. Do these Indians take any pains to earn money to support themselves with than
they did before he came? — A. They sell wood and hav, pasturing cattle, picking
cotton; they did a good deal last year; they picked right smart toward the latter
part of the season: then thev picked quite a good deal; took lots of interest in it.
Q. Are they improving this year over last year do you think? — A. The cotton
picking this year Is early; I have not been around to see. It has only been a short
time yet that it has been so they could pick it.
Q. Do they continue to improve their places now? — A. Yes, sir.
Q. Do you know anything about Mr. Bently discouraging the Indians from living
on their places? — ^A. No, sir.
Q. Have you ever heard anything in that way? — A. No, sir. My understanding
is he is trying to get them on their lands all the time.
Lewis C. Grimes.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
Ctbus Bsbds,
VnUed SUUa Indian Inspector,
NoTBN (progressive) testified as follows:
By Inspbotob:
Q. You have heard read this paper, ''Exhibit N," that was rignedat McLoud the
15th of August last?— A. Yes.
Q. This paper is signed by you and three other Indians. What do vou know
about this papei^ — A. This man, Mr. Brosius, told me he had come from the Depart-
ment and he says the Government has hired me to come here. He says I want you
to explain what Mr. Bently haii done. He told us what you know about Mr. Bently
I want to find out Has he been favoring one side or having one road, or does he
favor the kickers and not favor you. That is what he told us. We told him he
don't pay much attention to us. He don't see all the kickers, attend to them all.
He says these people don't take a hand in the work. He don't treat the folks that
don't work as well as he does those that do work. Those that don't work he don't
pay much attention to them. He says we ought to only have one agent; we wish to
nave one agent Not a good idea to have two. He says hetween themselves they are
talking about one another about them having two agents. The $5,000 that was
appropriated we got no benefit from. That is all we said to him; what he says fur-
ther than that he does not know anythiuj^ about
Q. Has Mr. Bentley ever helped' him m the w&y of a well or anything Qlse? — A.
Clark made the well. He says I don't know who hired Clark or Mr. Bently, or any
of them. That is why we want to have one agent so we would know who was our
protector.
Q. Do you think Bently is a bad man or good man to the Indians?- A. I can't
tell anything about these white people. When they talk to us Indians thev have a
sweet mouth. When they ask them to be their agent or something like that they
don't pay much attention. When they want to do business among a tribe of Indians
they treat them awfully nice at first Put the two agents side by side, tliey couldn't
tell which is best. Of course these agents I suppose are only agents for the money.
As long as they have an income coming they treat the Indians right
Q. Do you recollect any case when you ever asked Mr. Bently to do anything for
you at all? — A. Never asl^ed him to do anything.
Q. Is there any change in this reservation now and what it was before Mr. Bently
took charge? — A. Don't see much difference.
^. Is there any more fencing done?— A. Yes, he got some of the Indians to fix
their places.
Q. Has he got more places fixed up since he has been agent than any of the
others before?— A. The other agents never would go about the Indians mucL
AFFAIB8 07 THB MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2068
Q. Has Mr. Bentley made a good many of the Indians make farms, get fixed
ap? — A. He got some few, made mrms for them. Some made their own.
Q. They have done that all under Mr. Bentlejr? — ^A. The Kicking people; he was
their agent.
Q. Has he done a pretty good thing for the Kicking people? — ^A. Some he done
pretty good with them, some not quite so much. Mr. Bentley begs them to go and
larm and fix up their places, and he would treat them nice if they would go to work
and fix up.
Q. Do they sell any more wood and hay and do more to make a living than they
did before Mr. Bentley took charge of them?— A. They didn't use to do it all. They
do it now some. Some don't
Q. Do you think the Kicking Kickapoos are better workers than the Progres-
sives?— ^A. They all work for their living, both kinds.
Q. What is the difference between them?— A. All he knows it would be better if
they had only one agent. All we can do the white people have power over us, and
we don't know what to do.
Q. Have von got some Indian that would make a better agent than either of
them? — A. That wouldn't be right, for we never had Indians for our agents at all.
White man knows how to treat Indians all way through; we couldn^t tell what
time Government sends another man here. We don't pick agents.
Q. You say in this paper that before Mr. Bentley was appointed special he held
two councils with us endeavoring to have our lands canceled, endeavored to get
power of attorney for this purpose. — A. All we told him, I didn't tell any such
thing. Didn't have any council. I just laughed at it, having a council, there was
only four of us there. The man was claiming to be sent from Washington. You
can see right there when we come to talk with the white man he puts that down.
We can't write, we can't read. White man writes anything he wants, this white
man, just like tne Indian said the whole thing. Then he gives them a pen and says
''Touch that pen." When we tell white man to write the truth he don't put it
there, he puts it in his own way.
Q. You say in this paper, another council was held for the purpose of havins: the
dissatisfied Indians sell their lands and purchase cheap lands in Mexico. Did Mr.
Bentley hold any such council as that with you?— A. He never had anything to do
with that When I was over there to talk I said we only wanted one agent; that
was all there was to it
Q. You don't belong to the Kickerel?— A. I was no kicker; have nothing to kick at
No TEN (his X mark).
We, the undersigned, certify that we were present at the examination of No ten,
Kickapoo Indian, and attach our names as witnesses hereto.
DUDLBT H. ShAWNEB.
Mrs. W. W. SooTT.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
Ctbxtb Bebdi,
UnUed SUiUb Indian Inspector.
No TEN, recalled, testified as follows:
Q. Exhibit P. This paper was supposed to have been signed at Sac and Fox
Agency the 14th of July last Have you read this paper and do you understand it? —
A. You read it here.
Q. Is this true, did you sign it? — A. No, sir; I never saw it before, until it was
read here.
Q. Was you at the agency on that date? — A. I know nothing about it We were
there a lonp time ago.
Q. This 18 in July, 14th of July. — A. I don't know an vthing about it
Q. As far as you are concerned this paper is all a lief— A. It must be all a lie; I
don't know it
No TEN (his X mark).
Witnesses to the signature:
Dudley H. Shawnee.
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bbicde,
United Stales Indian Impedor.
2064 A^FAIBS 07 THB MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
O KB MA A BOM, Pah ka SB, Pa pah bb pb a, Kb ko bha ma, Pbm mb ton, Pb ah
TWT TUCK, Kah to QUO KAH, Wah PB BO, eaoh of these men being duly affirmed,
deposes and says:
O KB ma A BOM testifies:
Q. Do yon know anything abont this papei?—- A. No.
Q. Were yon at Sac and Fox Agency Jnly 14th?— A. No; somebody stole my
name and put it to that ]>aper.
Pb ah twy tuck testifies as follows: I was at home sick and I know nothing abont
that ]>aper.
Kah to quo kah testifies as follows:
Q. What do you know about this paperf— A. I don't know anythinj? about it.
Q. You heard it read here now?— A. Yes; but I don't know anything about it
Q. Were you at Sac and Fox Agency when this paper was gotten up? — ^A. No; I
was in Kansas.
Q. Did you ever hear anything about this paper before now?— A. No.
Pah xa sb testifies as follows:
Q. You heard this pap>er read here?— A. Yes.
Q. Did you ever see this paper before yon come here? — A. No, sir.
Q. Never signed any such papei? — ^A. No, sir.
Q. Where were you on the 14th of July? — A. Shawnee.
Q. What is your father's name? — ^A. Mesh que ken ock (name Bigned to same
paper).
Q. Where was your father on that date? — A. I don't know.
Q. Was he here? — A. I left him at home when I started to Shawnee.
Q. Did von find him there when you went back? — A. He had gone somewhere.
He might have gone to the agency for all I know.
Pbm MB ton affirmed as follows:
Q. Have you heard this paper read?— A. Yes; I heard it now.
Q. Was you at Sac and Fox Agency on 14th of July?— A. No, sir.
Q. Did you ever hear this paper read before you came here? — ^A. No.
Q. Did vou ever sign it? — A. No, sir.
Q. Don't know anything about it? — A. No.
Q. Where were you on tljat day? — A. Here; village.
Kb no 8Ha ma testifies as follows:
Q. Has this paper been read to you? — A. I don't know an3rthing about it at all.
Q. Did you ever sign it? — A. I never touched no paper.
Q. You have heard it read to-day? — A. Yes.
Q. Where were you on the 14th of July? — A. Here all the time.
Q. You were not at the Sac and Fox Agency on that date? — A. Na
Pa pah SB PB A testifies as follows:
Q. Have you heard this paper read to-day? — A. Yes, sir.
Q. Did you ever sign this paper? — A. Somebody else must have signed my name
to it I never did.
Q. Where were you on the 14th of Jnly, 1898?— A. I was right here at Shawnee
town.
Q. You don't know anything about this paper?— A. I never touched the pen to
that
0 KB MA A BOM (hls X mark).
Pe ah twy tuck (his x markh
Kah TO QUO kah (his x mark).
Pah ka sb (his x mark). *
Pem me TON (his X mark).
Kb NO SHA ma (his x mark).
Pa PAH SB PA A (his X mark).
Witnesses to signatures:
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
DrnLEY H. Shawneb.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Beei>e,
U, & Indian Inspector.
P4fS.
fTaoB I im; 0HB« irt' ST WMT viD h^imytwrntmad concct. Wftfltthqrf
SfaDuc Bfe. I fMsr aH o/ iL Whmihgfmf thorn ma€ hamg mnahnA '
Si4af% aoCEfr thasBL flue iMt tiaw I ipbm t» Wa^bmpam I didh't ■osi^ tfci
QODiESam t&d£»d3ja«ftvt&jC9Bir ^HiiartlbiiteBdL I fiald tfem «> boM 4a. I daaTt
kniwr lo^ gMBay itiBiL to JaaM qaiad ■at irice alltol«iBri.tti ytt, Smb«:4<i
i&oiaBfit £ WW aoc «n» WhiaeTMrfaer iaiJEii: tfc<y mafciheariiiiiiiiiiiiiii
I QQJd ^«aL C^JRr BiQC k> <!&> tiuit, Itef WWEud Iflt b<&f« vfeflC I f
jgreenigis aniccgticaiglwi datt if —j ea^qf diier ttsbt ykk My t
&flw»» fci- aiangy sfcaa w»^ an iiaaii inr aaat WarfiifngBwiL. If ti&tfr toafe tbt j
ch«jr iQoiiLii si^c b^dii bnch. they eonM noc be aa laniBiBtaad a wosce awn Hwc&l
wAitvfmrje. I '^M BAt tu^^ ^OA WMatTvckef ^esa^ Dhc Uk^ bat I dki aodfr sf
owTL ^ifi'^'ut^ scmer fif BLj oQQBciILQfs avfc facnsv ins aoc au, Mt fcoefe baU a csqb-
<£[ beA:-r» I v<c£ so Wjriiia^;Bc tfacr ^^^^^ ^^^rf poor aoii t^adv i utf« jgBje&oue.
WbfiL I vaa ifr^ct sa fcart Jor WarfrnigBaat wt hii a cnamal &> aofc igr an&e vupjoiv
ai]x£ear hasiTjsm, esA, We ^da^t }mwt moA mnatm t& v«rk vtch. aad t&as «;ia vh j
«%- aafisBi for duia. At c£uat tcatt I sadcncaad »<&e G:inma>»-ini«r wm «eor-;fBg Mit
&««:. Wlben I haaid efts GomaKaflfever m» ccmimr I weos iVi Ofrtaftrwria CfuT tso «a
fccmc i«a£k widi *^*^*- I oko kcra. xs <'jklAbj^ma C&r: venc nLCi? cbe '^^-y* wai«e ka
wa» aoiri bad a alk wfeb him-: &:ui htm I via ^aaa n& vrj^histfCttia. Mj OKpfe
waa»d 3w iu> f& %- Wjtt£i-rr4r!i'ja* bios I vaa very p<Kr. bvxc £ ruv «e Odit mia*
]iu*Mia bt WaiiibDriML Todiv *'Jiac 'Oui laaer, I &j&i che CjauauaBi:c«r cfaje vhise maa
gtjc 'MET 'j3SM^ mDJit ttfaadc whase^fir sbi^ maii« -jc in. we v«pt t:.i hd.7e half JZLii s£ba
whfoe man balf. and aa an •mi&ixiiTe >jc ?hGi£ he- oade sMcey wfcfa. ca« «ae^e «« ooe
sr&^ «ui Che aiaa 6a tifa« •xher &i3e. the •sa^ vaa oiiae aod seie man waa the wLioe
aiaar&.
I ':fiiii me Cr^cmiiaBijaer wben y«a aet ib» Wathzn^iGaa yoK tvr «> aec €&* ibov-
w^meiis i: hei p =i»r r>A :'»»r loert. Ky anicey u vpvp tfcer«t The oiiCuzs^aoaar
vat I ha-r^- a^ j* m zjcxw acii "Jk^xeii 'wish y jTl I am, Tuarr xidil ^ Ba-re «Keii jooi
anii beani y-.n :3u''i. Wbec I ^e£ ^ WashioiEfiiia. I wiH iiunfi'ap chat «^ srucy. ami
^ I ±aii b 7:11 T-.JL ha-re atjctee. Tbe G'^n ti MmsajM; whec. flje^to- ^jHiisatiMi^
he j'xciifi -iz "±0: 'rrBarr jsii iSmi x aad amii me w>:ri that a. a J£w -ijky^ \ ^
w-:rfi Vj •^r.ce Vj Wjahii^r:.:!!. A lislie whfBe a&tr Cocuznifli met I waa ooi^ifiiii «»
<mne %: Wuhiiupjii wbh 3£r. Fo^fiii. He aens me t&db»i2» q> p: Ite* difix^t; jeoii sa*
azL7 mr.Bey. W£eii I r:c ±ere. I aikai 5:r whas I wacseii — waipjoa, harneaa. moJlnv
«&*! lbeyiccf:::cvijivil jcce su^azas. Tbe CooimiisioDer choi3^t fr waa nct^oaa^
acii cos a'li^SuJt Mr* -j fs. T^Lie war wja rcisip iO. ami I ocIj'dBfjC I5.'»;. Wbeai I
^jC 'ha^ I S^oid '±je '^ui ur»a:rT: 3 w^a all ^hmi I &jisaii inme oui cmaeuar mmm
^t 'niiHii w%r» zioiif^ icjt other ?bfe <sf Che XDaaniipcu saose <tf s&em m. Et.rHBa aoiBa
W'«ac acif jcce -»sh!t :c :he XliSi^-cpi. Oce aeacy wens way baiik u- cbe «j*jv«»RmieBt
oc ^af^ Cace *>!=arit>a:;i. ^ Xjwccri , As iha: cfme chey <£i£EL't ffall aa Abaenfiaa
i»haw:u»ea. biis Ksbt.^t: ShawDeet^ Thas ivrA waa ■yagfiarawi i'^r liaaii m Cjemk;
^±«i uiej '*.»»as -a* -.ir: o<f lil :tf ix The A':»»*«ive ^feawiaMa «ric aanhTig Thac iacba
warr w-^ uicti V, be A :f*fai>e Sca-rzees: w-t w«»re acMUis. laai tifae^ fr^t away wiih
the whi'u* :?• '-^t. Fr:ci ■'.Ace •3-ra.'''ii»2i:i ■»* w-tns to T-szaL acii w&eo. wejjQC cheie
we zn: «:cLe li^i 'S"* ^-.i- t-f: puei^.fts :f lasii hi Texas. My laoii :±ere » a bw
'TuiinrT '.jri^r -ri \z.*i t: Vi -Jir^ 'i:i.*.»:ze Si.-*r. The ^ther puise » 'ic u6«*- B^a!ar.a. It
» -li'i 2L:l»»ft **'/:ar*. ice :ce :c iurt- Eriz.:i» Eii^r- £ went to T4!xaa chree cfanis. hrms-
BUT T^ '^^ii -:-u: ':ri»arT. I S:iin«i ^:cif*- 'A \z n^n alL I thmk luvw I wiH oke FaeU
aa/t iTj 1**^1 h-Tn: .z'jlL tz. Tlii* :a aL I iu.-** Vj sit nnnr- Weare m. two iii!Ti:iift
ni:w ' ^* ir» i:-r':.itt. i£ii I :»:»!'•: ca-nt ^> aijCifT ^frhioe Tirkeyf when I hoiii my
*r,TczA*£s. "^t.'jh rTri.-*7' * : •. r^stsher* away laidK made Bfli treaty/ T&ii it aH I Smii«
"iTi «.7. ami wji;kr I car* at;,: U rr.rrtfflL
^las ■.£11*7 inj i/rji- Z>*ii:.e7 i::ii Wbdd at not osrrcet. Ti&ev alwayi arr to beip
Che Initii;!:*'*.. ':*--r7 'jui. ^sri-rn I wis !;:rrf-[ir hi:c:e: froci Wjahisipm. I «w cte
0-*ciz^-i»i* ctrT. i.-'t -ui.* 'IV.cizi-z-Hji-.cer «iii ^ C « tciwe w*r joa who -io I «sid ciienii
V-, '±it Sfc! i.-.: F'x uprTLZ I? z>-j 1€j EiOLZlgf^' I fiujd h-fm I -ioc.'' kaitwchait moa
ac sfti* mii J: I a^h.'.t. j-n »e!i«t -heci t> Mr. Bettfey. When die wiiriiv
cnme v, 5ec"..^7 I :r t -^ t » v. r: a liis^e 5ief!ei?r chem: 5acacii Fot Apwirr i» a Jior
wa7-*. Ihrr ■'.■.» — ■^r*'.--'*^ -.:'jf =e. I will *eEii ^ii Beccley whas I iwl P*^ »aiL
I iia-'^ V. 30.7 A-_ r.-. 7 -e-.ipie w»re pf«*9HLt is my -^insril- jzi<i >fr. 2*rti-:.i*7 waa
pCTsH*^* lzj: -V* -Pr"^ L. TT.Vfi when we *pri«^ia.ti»ti Mr. F:eiii 'i^ar-frj-j-iiH-'. '-»:aie
«f ny pt^era ri:.i.-.. '.sr ^: zsjt tfcncnKt vxslb Xr. Feai cav« bce& aent bf sb* O^ubsat
2066 A7FAIB8 OF THB MBXIOAIT KIOKAPOO INDIAH8.
rioner to Agent Patrick, and Agent Patrick has never given them to me. (Taming
to the inspector, "I want you to look after them.") Long Man was formerly a
member of m v band and one of mv council, and he took his money and went over
to White Turkey's band. He no longer belongs to my people; he went over to the
other side. White Turkey band have no chief and council, but they have a busi-
ness committee to look after their affairs. My people follow the old-time way; we
have chief and council as the Great Spirit ordained os to. This is about all I have
to say.
Bio Jnc (his x mark).
Witnesses to Big Jim's mark:
Mrs. W. WT ScoPT.
DUDLBT H. ShAWNSB.
Sabscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
Otbos Bbxdi,
United States Indian Inspector.
We, John Tbylor, John Welsh, Pecan, Jackson Clark, Bob White, all council men
of the Biff Jim band of Absentee Shawnees, certify that we have been present and
heard all the statements made b^r Big Jim, our enief, in relation to M. J. Bentlev
and W. S. Field, and the council, as embraced in charges made by one S. M.
Brosius, hereby declare, on affirmation, that Big Jim's statements are true.
John Tatlob this x mark).
John Welsh (nis z mark).
Pbcan (his z mark).
Jackson Clabk (his x mark).
Bob Whttb (his z mark).
Witnesses to these five slgnatoree:
Mrs. W. W. BooiT.
DuDLBT H. ShaWNEB.
Sabscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
. Ctbus Bbedb,
United Slates Indian Inspector.
RoBBBT Dbbbb, being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
Q. You have heard all these chai^gee made here? — A. Yes.
Q, You have heard what has been said in relation to Mr. Bentley trying to get the
Indians to get off of their allotments. What is there about it? — A. This is not so. I
live right here among the people; is not so; some scheme just to.move him.
Q. Do the Indians want Bentley removed?— A. No; but somebody else do.
Q. What does Bentlev do for Uie Indians?— A. He rides around to see them, help
them. He does more tnan anybody does. He helps them work, helps them farm.
Q. Who composes the Absentee Shawnees nowr — A. There are two parties now.
Biff Jim has his party; he is chief and he has his council. They decide how things
will be. This White Turkey band has committee, separate altr^ther, two separate
bands. I have tried myself to get them together; they won't bear it At the time
this council was had, when the charges preferred against Bentley by the White
Turkey band were made, thev asked me to sign that. I told them I won't do it. I
told them they ought to all come toffether. They wouldn't listen to me, and I
wouldn't sign the papers. I don't think that the full-blood Indians knew what they
were signing in thoee charges.
RoDERT Deere (his z mark).
Witnesses to signature:
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
DUDLBY H. ShAWNBB.
Sabscribed and affirmed to before me this 24th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bbedb,
United States Indian Inspector.
Dudlbt H. Shawkbb, being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
The statement of Dudley H. Shawnee being read to Mr. Shawnee, he, under
affirmation, testifies as follows:
I have to-day heard the statements of Big Jim in reference to the contract
between the Big Jim band of Absentee Shawnees and Mr. W. S. Field. I am satis-
fied that I misunderstood the contract in the beginning. That I for one would have
made no protest, as, indeed, I would have no right to, had I been rightly informed
AFTAnS or THB mCSWA'W KSOLtfOO
Ttmn^pt Tsm hu^aaam imtm Aar IrndL iv x ^Eaiseai>f icigiawirf m> i
4Bfar a «i«i lanifc. iM €< cwngK: 1 tdM acg get ^fe «rkgiig 'fc tl isagit iSua. I imm:
jBsqmmA M« %il lofipr c&ms II Mc Bcsso^ asd mw F3tu£ 100% ^i9b£ %«ibl nsBse^
auBHKfi is^> Sic. szd I ikiaik #a^ Ksi. Bcd^ m mBmaeamnm m iat v ;r% isba^o^
QOIL 3itfi|&I» S£ Ix^DiK JHEBU- XttiS I IWK ^—^"^ ^OBt SKIS' H^ loi^BU flE 'ViBVBk 'ZHU^
H.
^ Titfs ^ABfiiyL 33f» 2Jk mcjBO^ is-nssS iSifr TTtttwTir k lift ^atf^aemc jnc |n 1^—
-fc^ '■'* iaunr iff s 5iir jbul
<4r Viae i^ Ik t^ ?*9E «^«& j>sii: cri: ^bsr isiue^ — ^L. B» isi*€ iss irrnr "^ T«b
^noxHr aeii€ Jiraij psnr iia»(i."' 2 '«icsa«n^':2i*s>f^ii£3eriatfr3Xfi:^es. I i^Ptcxi^^A^vr
£X: 3B< ixmi^ psL: litac Mr. Bmcrr j-jBOf^s laieBL i& axa*:. Tl«7 bsikiix^ v. luf: la jobJ^
Hi I lair ^beriLlfe& iaaiL I hast% mieiL iksv.
V SK 139 (Mi X SMBki.
Qrmm
Uma£ BsSa iuSmm ia^isdhr.
SiBDP3«tt i*»it£ jc ';aA!: JLiikic«:i^ -liliw^. O^ciKti^fifai {& ^if^ ^^ muit Sfe^ ^oe^ «#
Se^neauater. ^ I I*r»fi ii*r»n»Tr usr:^ ^ac upt iisat^: ac»ciilj 3in*r^i?*58f£ ^i "tier
'^'t^fl'^'P (puBCTTsini^ i2ac laut :#**hl a^lt oirnitr iS* ■^gitiriyrT aii^ laac "Cj*^ iarPt: jaxsiSS^
&GBSS7 Ifiraa lis X 3Xflei^ «
FjUF 5» Wjt XJi^ 2IIIBk>
£101127 H^ StA-iTfaK-
BmmsSxft tsut w&rxust ^ b^irt 3xi*r -^is f?£& 5^ sf Tm^tSfmcur^ ISIf^.
Dn&ffC Suoa In^tam JkapBtaar^
V I'' J >»^ LZi.'^ yCr zMnnr^i^* — ±. T*s.
VUt lUILK^
^ 'B'lae cmi rf m nmj*- ^^ is rr«» ytiC^ — ^A- Ax wrm^xL mrjt thua,
<ir 'LfVBt Itr. z*^ssf:jsj i^-z -sua inssa luckaa wt -wmL m jm^ — A, T-bk Bacief
<J^ ]L*ii!« lit 7^17 "SiiinL m :ri»T» -:,t,*3:;r itnu^ — A T-»ft
<<, HiK Ktj vt ^3*«ii iiriij*^K2«wt IT 2ii*w -siisc rt»»-T tiirr'^ iir»»t bmse* Ife MnSr
j|i»: iiMic '.riii-T^ c '^iH^n '.ii*7 ¥*r=t n: Jaut jr-.»mii "ne -s-.-iHct 4'tfy,Kj»ufe *^kmr^%
3068 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Q. Do«8 he go around among them mnchT— A« Yea; he is aroond among tfwmaH
the time.
Q. 1)0 yon think he ia a pretty good man or a bad man to the Indianii?— A. Tei:I
think he is a sood man. All I can testify to is what I think of him. Some may liot
like him; all I can say is what I know.
Q. Do you think the Indians wonld be jost as well off withont him or had they
b<»tter have him?— A. I don't know. As &r as I am concerned, I would miai him.
I don't see how I could get along without him.
Q. How many acres of com have yon got in? — ^A. About for^.
Q. Is it good com?— A. O, yes; good com.
Q. How much fenced in? — A. About 240 acres.
Q. Who built th« fence?— A. I did.
Q. Who ehowed Vou how? — A. Kickapoo farmer assisted me, told me how to
run ^he lines. Mr. Bentley was there, too.
Pab thb (hia x mark).
Witnesses to signature:
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Dudley H. Shawnib.
Subscribed and aflirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
GTBimBsSDB,
UniUd StaUi Indian JnaptcUiT.
£. G. Pheupb (white), being duly affirmed, testifies as follows!
Q. What is your business? — ^A. Job printer and newspaper.
Q. You reside in Shawnee? — A. Yes, sir.
Q. How long have you resided here? — ^A. Four ^ears, over.
Q. Do you know Martin J. Bentley? — A. I do; since 1891.
Q. What do you know of his work among the Kickapoos? — ^A. I think it is extra
good, and the people who have no personal interest in the matter all think very
highly of the way ne conducts the affairs with the Indians. They make special re-
marks about it.
Q. Is he a man of good moral character?— A. Yes, sir.
Q. What has he done for these Kickapoo Indians; his work?— A. He has induced
them to improve their lands, their allotments; and he has induced them to haul
wood to market, hay and vegetables, that they get off of their lands. There is hardlv
a day passes but what they nave hav and wood in here for sale. He aasodatee with
them, goes with them, and is one of them. I have heard some people make fun of
him because he goes with them so much. They call them Bentley's Kickapoos.
They seem to have perfect confidence in him by his being honest with them and
trae to his word with them. This is the general opinion.
Q. How many farms would you say he has mduced them to fence in? — A. I
couldn't say how many, but the most of the land is fenced, and they all have a patch
of ground that they have cleared out and are clearing.
Q. How was this when Mr. Bentley took chaive of it? — A. It was all open with
the exception of an acre or so here and there. I don't suppose there were half a
dozen patches. Under his influence and care they have converted this open country
into fields. At the editorial convention held here two years ago the question of
civilizing the Indians was discussed, and Mr. Bentley's methods were highly recom-
mendtKl by a number of the members present. They seemed to think his methods
couldn't bie improved upon, and I actually think he is a wonder in working with
these Indians.
E. G. Phklps.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bbeub,
UniUd StoUes Indian Intpedor.
G. W. Adams (white), being duly affirmed, says:
I am an attorney by profession; reside in Shawnee; have a farm 4 miles out, npon
which I have renideil since 1H92. In 1892 I became quite well acquainted with the
Kickapoo Indians, their general habits, and with many of them personally. At that
time, with the exception of one or two, as far as my acquaintance went, they were
what is implied in the appellation " blanket Indians," and remained such until Mr.
Bently became associated with them, as I understood, in some official capacity. I
never' inquired particularly and did not know, until, perhaps, within the last vear,
what his particular work was to be. A ^reat many of them since that time liave
improved small farms, and to a very considerable extent have adopted the habili ol
<sr THM MEnrijr
snR^ iie JF iiei^aiq^ tbBDi. IJg. Bfanfly acpar ^awe ^fawp alwurt «n< %mB initg. Ijbbl I
IK- -9W JLwc -friti iift lutbKu jl "fr^rtfingffgic M jhhb I ^wir sbbl inn. fSK'tni
inup ^risL ttwML,aw£ aagy «BD6nw«initfiiy iiwk ifat iimb fsaBg » Waittngptnfa. li
fsa0g^ -wrjSix IjtSam MfBoust sfiKir in m i&. iiK^m j«bl ^. uRaBaoHE. sxi€ »q^.
^iwv. anc I SOL ^ixat iiitmjiiKiJj neyuuiAffC -vrxSL inn, 1 'Sbask i«r is omuuluiBx m
5bngfc. antfi-iiMvaiL JcniOF'ffiaaitiPiBiL.
•UBtkiu flkttop Jhwiflii
'f^ Wmc ^ not izu'.Tv vr.rjvn im wvdL unxms^ 'Siij» IntiBn^ — JL 2 fwt- tim: -itri&i
iiifr JutiiaiiF mion: ttL '^ zmi^ ivr im une: V9n y*ste:i Z iaFv*^ uwsl itSR icL tx^w^ auinc
iff. tiit •smit:. mit 2 sjwsw 'Uuk: i;iHr liiThaTif- ns^ T»sr} jun'^n. iiiiuiu»it i: iif- a: 'wirc nnQer
iw infiuBiRjfe TT -SMsir I'lrx fliaaamflnte: m 6ar » Z izu^^v al -^ Eaciagitn In^amf
Joist imL «iit 2^ akr «*- tiwii 3l 'H'lrL iftw «Blhnf iax: iaixiv u? "artnL cnrar^ jmi
^nxsm^ 19 iarr iir.' imtnr tftiieiL inxMhi^ IfsutiBK: wimwtniwt'tiOTWit mfK ihsbf-
jwfc far -stKiL tt- Mb. iSvuty zisfrr hs:P^ h ens: dfSL rf cantiC«ii'Jt 21: Kb:. Btnx%;
ii iaiF ijwn. vozxif tsi^ y*se^ «nrjp I iarrwr imat otc w^ iSifjar frnrant «s.tiegat Btnmt
•iwirL 2 Eninpi -sii^ir 5*iii»J» *t 'jumt xg liiiw?: i?t •fe'VTL. Ti«er»- -p»b« iardhr jn Seooov
"Stiiur vvnitT^ mivu^ iudiauf 2 cn^.^ znsr. 'jar 1 ia!c JjueisSL vimmmnitift iientHr nigtinr^
Tii» iaiit i«ar i-.nn 'p^^tb^ JCr 3*aru:} itiuc tniaTK^ v» nmtJt if id. ii^ioc jiaurH;: 'i
jf irt'v 5»5ii'j»?t- anc -^11% lutlunif tr^ jRCimr * fft»i#c mBonit inm it
jx iL-' xn'oii'-n. lai* "^im^ Itth^ uaui iiiimmtifE«wi€ *&«• taint t£ "^le tmiaeMt
it j» TT*t'XT«i:»iit 2 Tctit tu»ni w. a* "ni**^ -:rai»: 1 "iauk "Stitflr ipTmikt noi iwf- win^
^aiBni«< i5 -su»7' ixac mifepBrrft i: "Sr inn I ^tt
httvmcrxMfC muc tdtma/t v: uffiW: lut tiiff ifii& tMPr 'i£ he^XMBoatse:. lilHL
IktttB^ $^189 JsitaoL hm^taekofr^
Isicbaiit ♦iiii'j* i::t*ii 2 liK^ * is^'^z jwriuuiiyiniix ai BiOMPOiK:. anc iarwt umil j^trwaif-
aL7 a»rjuaiirfc»;c v-r:i lun tiii-mr n.-; remtHmuir il «^ba::n«<fi:. ».,ti. ip»«I airauanrfet
i£ lftanri*»it ' 2 r^:^ ::iiir Itr. 3»ni::7 ii» unat inaanmieiiaL ii ansrii^^ ttW JLiiisfc-
yui ZMiimist ant ^snyjurHrnif -sufjiL ii iauat m -un^r juu^ uut culi'^tCB*^ --i»*aL I
janur -siuf 5nm ^^»* iri'rr -nar 2 tart* tiftet «pfWL iiTn ^ti.i* ^rrnmr vartr iut lLj'tr.KTii»r
^tnuixsrjf J, urriirrnr ^Jit "t'T***"**' auli ^txatmaxbj inj^gaojaasou^iisi^ ini^jf wsssi^ aui^L ■■
2070 APFAIBS OF THB MEXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
building fences, digging wells, breaking pnurie. eBtablishing their homes, and-
believe, and have often remarked to him, that he seemed to be getting along with
the Indians ver}^ nicely, and they seemed to consult him, and ne seemed to give
them more of his time as Indian agent, towurd helping the Indians^ than most
Indian agents whom I had been acquainted with dnrinff my residence m the West
fr)r 14 years, and have myself bought grain and hay of the Indians whom he has in
charge, and Mr. Bently at all times, seems to encourage them in raising grain and
selling it, and to solicit myself and others to buy their products.
O. G.
Subecribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1808.
Gtbub BsiDiy
DnUed SUOes Indian Intpedtat,
William F. Bambkieb (white)^ being duly affirmed, states as follows:
Q. (By Inspector.) Where do you live? — A. In the Kickapoo country. On Indian
land.
Q. You mean by that you are a leaser of Indian land?— A. Yes, sir.
Q. How lonff have you lived on Indian land? — ^A. Three years next February.
Q. What is me general condition of the Kickapoo country now, as compared with
three years ago?— A. It is improved right smart
Q. Who has made this improvement? — A. The leasers and the Indians.
Q. Are you acquainted with Mexican Kickapoo Allottee Pan o wa— how much
land has he inclosed? — A. Yes, sir. He has the whole allotment inclosed.
Q. What kind of a fence is this allotment inclosed with? — A. Three barbed wires;
galvanized wire.
Q. Is it put up in a substantial workmanlike way? — ^A. Yes. sir.
Q. Do you know from personal observation who erected this fence? — A. The
Indians put the fence up.
Q. You mean Pan o wa and otherel? — A. Yes; Pan o wa and other Indians.
Q. Do you know whether there is any land broken within that indosure or
not?— A. Yes, sir.
Q. Do you know who broke it and how much was broken? — ^A. The Indian
broke it. There were two that really broke it. one held the plow and the other
one drove. There are two fields together — would make a good size field.
Q. When did those Indians move on to that land?— A. It was last spring. In the
spring of 1898.
Q. They built this land and built the fence during this yearf— A. Yes, sir.
Q. Do you know whether this Indian lives in a house or topee? — ^A. Last spring
when I saw him he was living in a house.
Q. Do you know how this iJidian happened to be there?— A. Mr. Bently pat him
there.
Q. How large a farm has he inclosed there? — A. Eiffhty acres.
Q. How many Indian farms do you suppose have oeen inclosed during the last
two years by these Indians under Mr. Bently? — A. Right smart I don't know how
many, but I think a good many.
Q. Do you think he has been beneficial to them as a whole? — ^A. Yes, sir.
Q. Has there been any change in the roads between here and where you lived in
the last two years, as regards fencing — A. Yes, sir. Two years ago we ran on the
old trail going straight across the country. Nearly all fenced up so you have to
drive on the section line. This was two years ago a Kickapoo Indian Reservation. *
This fencing has been done by the Indians and lessors under the influence of Mr.
Bently.
William F. Ramctimb.
Ctbus Bbxdb,
United States Indian Ingpedor,
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1808.
William F. Ramseier, being duly affirmed testifies as follows:
Q. Where do your live?-— A. I live in the Kickapoo.
Q. Of what Indian do you leade?— A. I lease of two Indians, Kee sheck ko thah
and Kah he ne peah.
Q. To whom do you psLj the moneTf-— A. I pay it to the agent at the Sac and Fox
agency. I generally pay it to Mr. Wnatly, the lesaing clerk at the sgency.
ArrMSS ^9 THE XXXKAT KKTKAFQi^ tSKHAIOL 2071
5sr ft Ws^^^fsj^ «ai» 3S ftoi ^dln;. and leii: bos ^s^ps f» lie ^
luut Q&ft 69^1 v^^aif>iL 5^^<39iiii 4tsmiL i» ^ist -hssoi:. TutT- WKm ^xat whim I ^Huf s&if
ipanxfaL 4w<»ft ail mac mtmjgfr t&«& g^«^ ««»ss 'W^ tiis&i^ ii3II stoir osKisii «3iiSt^aif«s
"<^ ID'S' jnix kar^w ^oas "iuir r^f^tsLxsj ^ssii ^m^ 4t soldi amB a^^— :A. Fbhib 4i fti' §%
«Hii» ai giumit 9iii% I 2«3^ i^«ui; in. cii* li»xr:airj.
% Tail !zii!atL !&?^ shxic tauc tiiufiK ibb^an ^^^
'T^f^ ^ttft ;tiiic sQT.fic ^m^ ^vosus fer <w<gg^n&mg t&c;^ ^^assaSoL. I tM l£
WmLLMM Y..
SoiMezdwi iDii idfaoxtti Q» Ub» iBft l&» 2SI^ liiqr 4€ S«^^
Sirtit F'lrk '**t ^^xtt 'CAiiaiiian 5lT»r. IHh- fesc ^ane- s&dc I oxaf '«w?%r i««L in gait
:.^»$Hi V* L^ttT;. 3#*«L »a*li»fi ^'irsi -sxm** in iin»: K >* gaggya^gpincgy oi acj 'S&'iai o^^arii^
3«iiir QCMr * *Jrjv: 'Xjts^T^or^ I irnca'^ •5xac tsiesf^ w«b» teoL !S^f i:3£ liflft «r HWT. ft
•tf^f*!!!^ im^cr^vi^xiifaii: :natii& in i:^ Oikauc^r^ aaancrj. Izi Il^!ft^ t&«D» wk waiTuii^
^Btj angm^'^imtmi: izuii^ in ^ir !X«»ft7 ^ha-vniw^ uni^m. ft m&s >tf 4 (ir ^ ma«>JK: ouit
anonp9«nii»xic -vas :xub:i»^ xccnm«^ v<»sciaif ^ ^ikj^vu^jethmi^sRi^amr'miP mniSem Btl;. ftutviiK
•m^ lil rmm^ sbuz!^ I -^^usl 15 w^sol I <&£ ami icaif<«r ae iduis taiw;: ii&oe wm mt (^M
tleiii ^ent^Mt in sui '^r^gs 127 fnimir hu&ma. '^r^p^nno' a^nn ^^aa liaad^ f&fs afSSOL s^nii
sie lusraiai^ ymrvx^ vyjinia 4. siwixiiiug lili taD« 4 cswc^ wtas ft ac&iwi&iivBM: aoi^
tautfi ip^93i& auittii^ V ny ka<;w'j^fi(2» n smrvr^ftc tane
niiesss: ixoa SKKn <a::>>iiifi:7>>^ ixn^r-.^rigxiffnxs 3101^^ hj ^sug: hmauatoadgm waiA i&e huSsmm
in ^ihis: 11^3:^ ic jftm^ing, ir^bczur :nsuru»;^ sui '^i±isr iiw9 <rf onwpviqf tfte Iaai&. K j
jRiUisii mftggtfaniT-nir is t±as ifcr 2i»xid«7 aii» aubls' ft frsM ji^bbb; ftoii s&os ^ ^ds
OCBB ]
Grififltf awg iidlw JBygjawr,
I iiffi^n^ KfSL 3Cr. E*»nTUi»7 Z lo.-?* a#wEL -vxn. ^fm,. aort I Jxa(9« hmm t» ^fli&ince&tiB
wa:&. nm. B*HQir» I ran irniimt ^nn inn I ^^iitafi; jfee^^ ^lerf ^rvsfi; I lici* *»^*r?-
ip^j*i»t — jiTOC !3nihi:Tnr *'i»r7-v:i«i». St»OT»^ I 'tain^i: kaiOMr 'wtetit I ipaa ac: 'tis jm€
» "Slit -v^T" ^» ▼'*r» :»^n .r» I -?^ar, "ii yignnrtgrvm vidL Ifc Btaiciy. l!!!*?' aaitt m* in
"» ttmmspiitL V. >x.»c .nr. -v i«l I :r.mi»r arum*:; tsient iPiBRir Silks -loc ^±ffla% ipfc wniiiif
'tn Hi* V— .Tw. TiAT^ v.u: Kj. 2»*jiii:i«5^ tr lakk^ 'duarm "if ^* di'.ka5r.r^ inpfc. I m^
5#v» ^* JWit id« ir.int* ^rariRr *:ri. zim Ife Bt»ndie?'i3aK<!&tfc^<9f m. ltln»7 v^ui 3ifr
l>«it K* Stnr^H:7 z ui»* ; .»ii:ir 3ii»n ur raii^m «7 myaaur % imnii*: » ^M iwi^iL -i^
aumL r!n*7 . .: i» v. rr. -.: v.ri ▼'t::! ICr. ^iatl*^ l?Si« 3ap«r 7''»r -imnrnr. iir
2072 AFFAIB8 OF IHS MEXIOAK KICKAFOO INDIANS.
Bentley to drop off. The Eickapoos picked ttr. Bentley to be their aeent I told
them in Washington if Mr. Bentley don't do the right thing with us, I will report
him to you. I want to follow the same road, friend fashion, with Mr. Bentley and
the Government
Kah kah sho go MX (his X mark).
Witnesses to su^atore —
Mrs. W. W. SooiT.
WoiLiAM £. Shawnxb.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Ctbus Beeds,
United Stain Indian Impedtot.
0 KS MAH, being duly affirmed, deposeth and saith:
Since Mr. Bentley began to help us we have found out the other a^nts have done
bad by us. This agent don't ever go into the saloons and take a dnnk. He is dif-
ferent from the other agents in that respect, too. Our agent here has helped us a
good deal. It has been two years now since I began to work for myself. Three years
ago our camps and wigwams were vacant sometimes; the marshals would scatter us.
Some of the squaws and young men are getting fat now. Them times we didn't
know whether we were gomg to get back to our camps or not; we were out starving.
Kow, Mr. Bentley comes out to our village and sits right down with us and eats with
us; he don't feel above us. These other agents are no good. I have no fault what-
ever against Bentley; that is the reason why I held up my hand before God to tell
the story. My &u-m is 500 acres; I have cultivated 18 acres. I have six stacks of
hay. I had lots of watermelons. I have a three- wire fence all around my 500 acres.
0 KB MAH (his X mark).
Witnesses to signature —
William L. Shawnxb.
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Ctrus Bbxdx,
United SlaJtee Indian Intpector.
JosBPH Whipplx, being duly affirmed testifies as follows:
1 am a Progressive Kickapoo Indian. The GoTernment knows me. If any inspect-
ors come out here I always interpret for them. I am known in the Kickapoo Reser-
vation as the Kickapoo interpreter. Several of these people are called Kickers, but
it never made anv difference with me. When they call upon me I always do the
interpreting for them, too. Since I was acquainted with Mr. Bently the Kickers
have had protection. When any white people cut bay on their allotments they go to
Mr. Bently and notify him, and he makes tnem pay or puts them off. I have seen
this done several times. The Indians told me themselves what we would have done
if we lid n't have this agent; now they say we have agent at Sac agency, we lay com-
plaints, they pay no attention; therefore, we didn't like him. This is what the
Kickers have told me. But if we call on Mr. Bently he is always here on the docket
To my own knowledge he has done all he could for the Kickapoos. I hear Mr.
Bently encourages the Progressives ]ust as much as he does the Kickers; there is a
little jealouslv between the Kickers and the others; they have come to me to know
reason why they couldn't be aided; I have heard Mr. Bently say to the Progressives,
if you go to work and help yourselves, I will aid you.
Q. flow far do you live from here? — A. About 5 miles.
Q. When Bently was appointed agent for the Kicking Kickapoos was there any
fences or breaking or any improvement whatever, between your home and Shaw-
nee?— A. No, sir.
Q. Is there any now ? — A. Plenty of them. It looks now like a good many people
live<l along there. You have to travel the section line now instead of going through
the country. Itjooks like it does in the States now. The Indians have good homes
now.
JosKPH Whipplx.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bbedx,
United Stale» Indian Inspedor.
wrnnraiit' mnrmi^fpsi^ ixsgasee. 3^CS
C^3QS lywiMi Imatt iiteig Jiiibmi Jtuyaaflw^
JlJutiiuiBiyt- umit if litfr IftfrfTi'MT ^oQtacjAn IririiBTif, 1 :iasfft itsaext -zitt sfbdisrn r^ati.
iri4afBiL uir-iaiisi: 'In gifr nin * «i, auc Sis^-kl. awifninn vmtsLMmt ini»«t jc MuI.imtL
^l^k... uL ^iHr jiitL Di^ if jLiipi«. BR- «mjfiii«i: ti uiswt imixhst -uta: ^^jbciil ^^fwm
3iBittH iiHt JHiiC «pv»Tu Liniiisia- vtit -ibea. -u iuau* tiasiL n ^vi urn, m jtw^ if
oilfvci ' J iiuuuic ittiwir i#»«i. iiiittfefC ^ snsii cduhcL imc iiaHi' adisrfi iiic 2 kiarw
jnrtiiiuf niAiiE Ji I aur *i i«i»v?r au? «nii eouncL iw» *wfir jmiti 2 iu?^* mkarfi
wTtL fc jaiwL niBiT^ if iirr jftni^it uiniu: ji. auc Hif^ «p^ "tift5t ^Hwer x«btc if kd? mum
fminidl? imt Du* iniHf vait JMsuamvi. mer -jiggi -hjs^ usksb w^ije^ jori laoisr ^tim tisf
IiiniiBf itoa Jftcum. iuoMrsOR:.
'!r^Tir.«»f V jLi^mm t«i«r QuY ^StukC. tssfifiw ar iiilfr^e:
ii^. T^'iur til yiTL cuuv bmiin 'iiiH- ruimcL liac wbi- .u^ic ki K'JLdmc JLisna: !^
2i5VH5" — dL JC vitt^ iHiJt. I i#eii«vfc ic lua: QKit a: UliCuuL.
ii^ TuL TBm*jnn#*r m^^ iiiui'^ "mdmrff wsh^ infMeu:?: — -^. C:>i gut 31m. fa:»cift;-5iiTBii,
Hi fit iiii. Jta» uut uuui iiu'jc wen: -ut BDimcinuBL jbmC <>t.uiHr imi fit !n«r y.t* lift
•nifij: lA lu'^uur ii» innnidinHa: tuexii. l»t»itH» "ttiait -ww* £ .{:ifi#c irasu} icuflr
iudjBi» -tiKTR:. ttt^ lu^':^ oiL «iHmjwii:vf9^ :&ft £jup9Bx»£B: luBi Jb, iiiiinr i«!ia iawf
%^ I>it vuv rni^nr-^. ul iiur » 4Bif it "fluf Tseubt •» "fiac cmmcT ic Iub: tmie'^ —
jCl. T«; «r Ih v.i«- liTtr -ttihu*fC unruur 'hiemwarw?* xl "tw- iroimcL. anc -tiiic h- "tiisir
tBfc«iiiL ifehrpt X Vviit viti«L Diiva. f.tgr x im» ^vmoHL tiwFa x -mm Jin«rimaBC
^ la yui cui'v if ;yinr vsvi, jiesMnaL £iir>it'eftcpEtr Itot tijffw- imtentnuf^ aL if -&»
3«n«f' — ::£. T**- «r
(^ JL3?: yin t ilr'annit Iiiniun' — JL 3^i. sr*: J an t Siarvngife
^ Vim ai yi)i ciii^ if -'Dir l^▼^ i#sTi<inaL iniiw^ttfa^ JX5«iatiiiLi3^ isift «nniiBxxs
if Ilia uiH^"' — -t- - tini ": tn 'V uL"*tiiiiu: iMrwimuL^ ii""Jfii£
^ jDJT ti»t yiu inn«;K:i u ih ir^mr •.irnncir — t. imi«iuf imc hhc*;: 111* f T iFuiufi
^ in ^ii^rr* uii: *f»^ "ih •jukj- uut iir iim Tx !aiL njt injuuiiLiiuia. x ^uurt v.i» ary-
-tiino: 11 «'.^ uiimr 'a\w luatw
^ lvnjtiii» T la- vr-t*^*AV ir in* imnir — -J. T^ft «r
V5; 2»Jt \^y u*-Mi 11 ;»ii: 11m n. ^iiiim nr -rinm 11 fiorn'- — -JL 3^i? iin:-iiar T ciiTtv if.
3 ▼Ttn*: E tJPVT n-'^^^t: ^.Ti»r i»* iiuC 'n^m vior 'irt*^ UMt n *e^ iii»nir ^uif iiuiTi-e^.
':ii*n "tii^^ i^*Mi I "luni*:!. Tii^n "tu*^ mnni* irut i*.^ init vui'JL wuf iii'_'^»nMrrHt^c jl
-hiR ij*ii»»r Tiitn v* nnvitnn'-t n 11 id*!!!- J^iftr n v.!* v—m*ii -m^; «ut * T«fe '"
V% iiia,«£, lii*jiL i ::!«:•; wirrt -rilintr ii ^uri- x, ^Tus^ «uc * T«,.* hul 'tu^j die
«un n
vi. Vm tilt jti iiTi.»gii» liaiux th we' — -fc. Tut a|j«xi: if "iittr iutiiai Itorfr Jbsfiisi-
aliui.
< jiiiTT imu iJi!'^ via rv»fL muimr ^n^asr "ifTimnfr- — -jL. jlLti':^ ife
^ ZiinF iuu: Lai'--^ ;nit iiiii»vx iJiJi l»eiit»f'. — ^jl. ^ihe utiiirR: ^,ia iniemur if -tne
'^ VuiT til ;^in ni'v i^*?Tv^mul'^ aimit: 2«iG*^ tniidmr in^ lanm^iift ▼rti :ii*?K'
iifdiuiff iLT '.AA y\x-y\ye^ u. liu^'-ui^ :iiisir alunnisiiit BHimiuscr — :ju. ^fxavv iiinnm^
JTTti:!- — ^ I'UL IDI. i*l—:^ — ^vu, i -22;
2074 AFFAIBS OF THB HBXIOAK KIOKAPOO mDIAlfTB.
Q. Ton know nothing of Mr. Bently's holding any cooncil?— A. I don't know
anythinff about it
Q. What do yoa know about Mr. Bently favoring the removal of the tribe else-
where?— A. Nothing more than what I have heard him say.
Q. What have you heard him say? — ^A. That the Indians don't have to take hit
allotment if he don't want to.
Q. What do you know about Mr. Bently favoring the removal of their tribe?— A
I don't know anything personal.
Q. Some of them have left their allotments, given up work; what do you know
about that?— A. I know a good many of them are leaving the country, on account oi
the Indians being not encouraged.
Q. Do you know that?— A. I don't know, that is what I heard.
Q. What do you know about Mr. Bently encouraging these Indians to leave their
allotments and the country — A. I don't know anything personally. I don't know
anything about any promises he has made to them. I don't know personally.
Q. It IS stated that since said Bently has acted as special agent, the progressive
members of our tribe who are living on allotments have received no aia from the
United States in farm implements, horses, or annuity goods, we being told by Bently
that we would receive no further support if we improve our farms. What do you
know about that?— A. I don*t know anything about that.
Q. Only those who refuse to farm would receive aid from the United States; what
do you know about that? — A. I don't know anything about it among the Kickapoos.
Q. Do you know of any of the Kickapoos having left their allotments and taken
up a roving life on account of the advice of Agent Bentljr? — A. Among the Kicka-
poos I don^t
Q. Do you know an3rthing about Bently's advice to any of these Indians to leave
their farms? — A. I don't know of any personally.
Q. Personally, do you know of any instance where Mr. Bently has failed to con-
sult the interests of these Indians in his dealings with them? The Indians he had
charge of? — A. No, sir.
Q. You know of no failure on his part in regard to the Kicking Kickapoos?— A.
No. sir.
Q. Do you know of any failure on his ]>art in regard to Big Jim's band of Absentee
Shawnee, and if so, what? — A. No, sir.
Q. Do you know of any failure on his part in treating any of these Indians he has
charge of? — A. I don't know a thine about him among the Kickapoos.
Q. Do you know of anything he has done afi:ain8t the interest of Big Jim's band
of Absentee Shawnee? — A. I don't know what he is to do.
Q. Personally, you don't know anything in his dealings detrimental to the
Indian^ — ^A. I don't know a thing about it
Thomas W. Alford.
Subscribed and afElrmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bbbob,
United SUUa Inspector,
Thomas W. Alforo, recalled, testified as follows:
Q. Are you a member of White Turkey's band? — A. I am if you make the division
According to the allotments. I don't know where the division line is to be drawn.
Thomas W. Alford.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 26th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Beede,
United States Indian Inspector,
W. 8. Search, being first duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I reside in Shawnee, and have resided here for more than three vears last past; I
am proniilent of the Shawnee National Bank; I have been acquainted with Mr. Bently
for more than four years, and have been more intimately acquainted with him since
the time he was appointed to the position he now holds. I have never made any
Hpe(*ial investi^tion regarding the conduct of his affairs as assistant special Indian
agent, my attention has been more specially called to the results of his work, in
noticing irom time to time members of the Kickapoo band of Indians in town with
loads of hay, and wood, and produce, and in that manner have bwn irnpren.-'<'d with
the idea that if it wa.s his H|)ecial duty to teach the Indians to work and to lead tiiem
in tlie ways of civilization that he was making a success.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2075
Further, the lands immediately west and northwest of Shawnee, which I have
been informed were assigned or allotted to the Kicking band of Kickapooe, have, to
my knowledge, in a great measure been feneed with posts and wire and otherwise
improved, which improvements, I am informed, have been made entirely by the said
band of Indians under the supervision of Mr. Bently.
W. 8. Seabch.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bebdb,
United States Indian Inspector.
BiLLT Panther, being first duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I am a member of the White Turkey band of Absentee Shawnees. And a member
of their council.
Q. You will please state what you know about Assistant Special United States
Indian Agent Bently's work among the Indians, especially the Kickapoos. Tell it in
your own language but let it be confined as much as possible to Mr. Bently and his
work, and the work of the Indians under him. — A. From the time that these
Kickapoos were brought from Mexico up until the time Mr. Bently took charge
of them they had never known what work was, and I have noticed within the last
few years, since Mr. Bently has been appointed their agent, that some of them
have settled on their allotments, have learned to farm, and have made consider-
able improvements; something they have never known to do heretofore. I see
Mr. Bentley nearly every day, and when I notice and observe what he is doing
among these Kickapoos, I wish that he was our agent; I wish we, ray people, had
that kind of an agent. We are not as well situated as the Kickapoos, inasmuch
as our agent is situated — is located — about 40 miles froui us, and it seems to be a very
difficult matter to get him to transact our business. I have some lease money out at
present, which I need very badly, and which I have been unable to collect for some
unknown reason. They promise to look after it for me, but that is all. From per-
sonal observation I can say that Mr. Bently is a good man and that the Indians are
well satL«fied with his work among them; that the principal comi)laint against Mr.
Bently does not come from the Indians under his charge, I am satisfied. Since Mr.
Bently has had chaise of these Kickapoos many acres of their land has been put
under fence, and gooaand substantial improvements made upon the same. This I
saw from personal observation. I see the Kickapoos cutting and making hay, a thing
which I have never noticed among them before Mr. Bently was appointed agent. 1
think — ^am satisfied — that if Mr. Bently continues to be the Kickapoo agent, that their
improvements in the future will be great. That is about all I have to say in this
connection.
Q. Have you ever known of Mr. Bently trying to' induce the Indians to sell their
lands and go to Mexico?— -A. No, sir.
Q. It seems that Big Jim's band of Absentee Shawnees met on the 13th day ofi
December, 1897, and that at that time they appointed W. S. Field as their attorney,
and that afterwards the White Turkey band met in council at Joe Billy's camp and
denounced the proceedings of Big Jim's band as being fraudulent and attempting to
force upon the whole tribiB Mr. Field as their attorney. What do you hnow about
that?— A. That is true; we did meet, and that we did pass such a resolution, but we
misunderstood the contract— that is, we thought that it covered the whole tribe.
When we found that it only meant the Big Jim band we, of course, had nothing
further to say — that is, we had no objection to the contract. We are a separate band,
and our band have nothing to do with them making the contract: no objection. I
wish to state that I desire to ask on behalf of mv people, and I think I represent a
good portion of them, that the leasing work of the Shawnees be given over to Mr.
Bently; that it is such a great distance from here to the Sac and Fox agency that it
certainly works hardships upon us to be compelled to go that distance to do our busi-
ness. We have great confidence in Mr. Bently, and desire to make this special
request of the Department.
Billy Panther (his x mark).
Witnesses to signature —
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
Dudley H. Shawnee.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bekde,
Oniied States Indian /n«pec£Qr«
2076 AFFAIBS OF THB MEZIOAK KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
I, the undersigned, Dadley H. Shawnee, beins daly affirmed, certify that I have
carefully interpreted the foregoing to Billy Panuier to his perfect undeFBtanding of
the same, and that he signed the same tmaerBtandingly.
DuDUiT H. Shawnsb.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me by Billy Panther and Dadley H. Shawnee
this 27th day of September, 1898.
Otbdb Bbkdb,
UnUed SUUes JMian Impedor.
L. E. CooLKT, county snperintendent of public instruction, being duly affirmed,
testifies as follows:
I live in Shawnee, am county superintendent of public instruction. About two
years aeo last March I had a lease in the Kickapoo school land, 2 miles this side of
the Indian village known as Kickapoo Springs. Sometime duringthe spring thej
made their village there; they were moving from some place up in Deep Fork, their
ori^nal village. I understood at that time they had to leave up there on account of
their land being taken by homesteaders or school-land leases; at that time there was
a great deal of talk that they would not accept their allotments at all; but some-
time during that summer I noticed the village was becoming more deserted and
they were going to different parts of the Kickapoo lands, I suppose to settle and
begin work; At that time I could come from McLoud to Shawnee over their lands
without interruption, except by land occupied or had been occupied by Joe Hill and
by Joe Whipple. That summer, at haying time, I noticed the Kickapooe were out
cutting hay, and some fencing had been done that summer; last summer a great deal
more of it has been done; the road was turned then to the section lines because of
the fences; that is about the first I knew of Mr. Bently. I saw Indians working
around there. I first saw Mr. Bently out there with a broad brimmed-hat on cut-
ting hay. I heard he was the Indian farmer, or had charge of the Indian opera-
tions. He was around there helping the Indians, overseeing the work; I don't know
exactly what he was doinc:. Tne impressions gained by my observations of Mr.
Bently's work among the Indians, is tneir change in their habits; from idlers they
became farmers; I have seen them in here with hay, wood, com, melons, etc., for
sale. The full-blood Kickapoos are the only Indians I have ever seen bring stuff to
market; I never saw these bring anvthin^ in until after they were under the charge
of Mr. Bently. I know that the Indians immediately west of Shawnee have inclosed
their lands and have taken in stock for white people to graze. They seem con-
tented and satisfied, and I have never heard them make any complaints and I know
several of them.
I am only slighUv acquainted with Mr. Bently personally, but I do know that his
time is devoted to these Indians. I never saw him sit down a minute unless it was
for a matter of business. Not only that, but his house, his family, and himself
seem to give those Indians the welcome they would ordinary white people. I have
seen him take them in his buggy at^d carry them around over town— squaws,
]>apooses — the same as he would white people; just exactly. I have observed him
closely, and I have never seen him do aiiytning but what was all right, and always
see him giving strict attention to his business.
L. £. COOLET.
Subscril)ed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Beedb,
UniUd SlaUs Indian Intpedor,
Geo. M. Younos (white), being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I live in Shawnee; butcher by occupation. I know Mr. Bently. I have known
him two or three years. He has bou);ht meat in the market of me for the Indians,
and paid me — gave me a Government check. I cut the meat up to his order, and
distributed it to the Indians. At other times he has come in there, bought chickens
and steak, and other meat, for the Indians of me, and gave me his individual check
for the money. Said the Indians were nick. He told me that there were not funds
here to buy meat with, and that he put it on to hin individual account, and I did so,
and he gave me his individual check. I gave the meat to the Indians myself. One
time he paid me $6.50 out of his private funds, another time a check for $39 and some
cents out of his own private account; another time he gave me a check for $11.50,
then he paid me some money along in the market — one and two and three dollars. I
recollect of his telling the Indians in my shop if they would work the Government
would feed them. I have heard him tell them time and again that in the shop — to
different ones. I have seen Mr. Bently for the last year, and I hardly ever see him
MTWMMam or ram mbdcast kbckjifqo ixmajril 9f}fi'
amiaaaii hinoL tit liut waaik.
ftifturriTiftii aod tdtrmmt to bttfiE3i« oe sbai J«tk <£sk?^ <if Sej^c^xnoifr^ :«^$}^
Umbgd SbKta htHoML hagaeoaiF^
OmMMJL Twsu }yw^ iiifj vBtemmi^ rm&ln- m SoUawa::
% &*« 7491 kmsw^ spAfsiiI fnrfran. Jlwit Kirm J', Bsxcd^^ — JL Tes. se^
^ Siiw^ Jon^ '3a^>>^ jniL knuwTL liim^ — ^JL T^r^ fsacs.
^ B»i all :^ fniiliin ^ecpDc wntk m&Bi wow c^do. disf xsaai 9^—JL, Tha^ w*iA
wuvm TUiw ^latL isugff uBfii isL
^4, Ein put ipsic Las Paociik 30 Loiiic a&er jrjur 'iinaiii»s» '.r & j^a w;uiZ B«it5i*7? —
esKhiir hsk^ffi him.
•^ Sift Initfan Jbisnz E^arii^ *^»*r ai*ip#*fi ^nn in amj ▼ay* — :i^ S* aiiipi*' tnit
«nuM3rniai wiieiL I am ic ^pork. "Si**!! in* r:"^*^ 3i*»r -Hicciii** « I '!aa •*^l
% Dili jnii •*w»»r ii»»»r IC* EtHLX^nj "iiil ^mi^sft liittitnji Vi oi'^i: f* Jthjsati auf Wirk
flut makit iuRns ami aeic jinrseri^ — A. 5ii: kft ai.-?a7»* iml» i& tii m m^att Mid
% ^w- hhkIl '^kbl hM!f% jsm fimFif S2ii» j^iof — JL I ^fnir 5c wzEL naks^ 15 It .aita.
fcbucri^iifi ami afirmed "Xk b«&rs^ im^ !&is ST^ 4asf 4C aCTaMmher. L^iiflL
CfisOsx^ .^ta69 LmHivn SMp^iUmt^
fawgnmir ^ O c^ mft nhm ami ^nc ke^ ^uuieBgDnmi ^lst jome bftmcsi^ ftgnmg
W"rT.r.r»w £► :^jrw>3B.
iiwrrthiSfi «ui irilTTni»rf t» arioBi^'aift t^xs ^m «3€ sna^emb^. l^SUL
Cnrfsnf afUfissi Sru&an. SaaggOur,
JL W, WAT»a TPteft . b«mir iiiy affirmisrL tinffiiif>» as aoili&wsc
fiApJr s]«i ^riMPt Tpa* an jmcr^.^r^numi: bx ^sn*^ £aiicto«w'i aiitt I -«3ft she <KiiiiEry wis
wtiit. I jzii-iw I TT^flc giinrr.ng' imt ^snui ttxh aa fmtiaa. ami x vas ail ^'jj^ "Sbs
farfianif lil ii-^^ itr»r iji ^!i;a; -s Biu^t :iift i.r.ita^*'.*; T-.'agft: nfine /ic miwx jftKixueEi:
Bfsxicj*^ iii» ijuL^sL '.aarift -.c -r, 1*111 I iRe ir.»*7 ir»r iyurimr azui jnam^our a. ir^ac •ii»aL
'SB«? irrur a ir^ac ota^ .r T.rrL ir.ii 2117 w -n;tr^^*s. I iii'?e iirjucic -»:«:#i 2r^ni t:hi*ni^
:Srniii.7^ "an a ir^ar iiiui^^ :«*«' juitu a:p n**. I «*f»^ -Jii*ni iriiigng Ji 'mra. ^"jr
9«;taxAV*jt ■*?!'. I :».»nci' -i^ii^rinr -yirs fr ai Pir t^j* laii '>riii*r Ijii.anff. <^>ifr -^r rmif!^'
if "3i»»5»^ loitiitna lii.^- "i •<: m* ':«*r*;iiii.l7 -Jiar ":2ii»7 iiir'*ir t.-inii -*, bit a. ^htK aunt
anor-**"**! initt*r "sii*^ indiii*ru'ii \t yCr E*indi»^. I hff^y» i^s^sl v. ihfflr «?ani^i ^ iir? anr
a«3";r» K-. 2»*iiiui*7 v.r.a: ii'.a;-2P I 'jr^niit *Hi -^ii*ii htwr znt^j '.V7i*sL «:nn* :r latyn i'inir
in sunt;* 1 larr^^ 'i*«i v. -^.i*!* ziaxif^ -snitfti Oi^'V "Sift^ i ^^ -H ii:ii»*s uiii 2a-;«* fanin-.
a iiiilar 1. ni'-nnr,. -.a thi* i*»a«l I rar,^ "untr* i» a iaiTT^mji ttIg £f»«»T:» ii» ♦r. •k ;iic
K-- iS-iJiciii^ 117^ 1^ if 3i» -iinft 'n ^2ift rai^anff. ami I hasxni hesri x jud *Jias 3ir:.
Sotdtff ist-T^'ufir^ u lia zm& la. -^ rnrfrans ^ubi 3ft iiii ^1 ins simuy.
§abmmaa0i ami adfrsiefi ^ bidns 3ift :&» Zn&. '^■f flf S^ptontee, XiSML
2078 AFFAIRS OF THB MBZIOAH KIOKAFOO mDUSB.
SiDNRT ScHBAM, being fint duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I have known Mr« Bentley for a good wliile, but not specially intimate with him.
We have some land np among the Indians, and I have been traveling up and down
there for two or three vears. Previous to the last two years, I could not see any
inif)rovements with the Indians; in the last two years, I have noticed that they are
taking more interest in fencing, farming, and in putting up hav; that is the principal
part I have seen of their work, and I have- said all the time that I thought that the
Kickapooe were advanced farther than any of them in work. I have only known
Mr. Kentley as he has been going back and forth among the Indians, and I had really
thought that he was doing more for their interest than anyone else had done pre-
vious to that. The country shows a different appearance, and more interest is taken
bv the Indians in the last year or two than before in their feu-min^. 1 meet them
often with hay, and see them putting their hay up themselves, working. Two years
ago, in passing the whole length of the line, the entire Kickapoo reserve, 24 miles,
as far as I conld observe there were not to exceed four Indians living on their allot-
ments; now the most of that land is improved, fenced, and it looks to me as if Indian
places were scattered all along. I see them plowing and working, and innprovinff
their farms. The whole wide prairie is now in farms. They had never commenced
to do anything or made any progress toward farming until in the last two years.
Sidney Schram.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cybds Breds,
United States Indian Irupectar.
Pan o wa, a Kicking Kickapoo, being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I am a Kicking Kickapoo; I know about Mr. Bentley's work. Little more than
two years ago I went with Mr. Bentlev to Washington. There Mr. Bentley weh
given power to help the Kickapooe worlc. The Commissioner told us to work; that
then thev would have something to eat and that Mr. Bentley would help us. He
told us that Mr. Bentley would go to work and do it just like he would himself.
The Commissioner said they would give Mr. Bentley money to buy provisions and
implements for us. When Mr. Bentley got back he told the Kickapoos to go to work
anci make farms and fences. I always thought that Mr. Bentley was very willing to
help the Kickapoos.
I hear that the white people say that Bentley tells us to go to Mexi(!0, but I say
that is not true; he always tells us to go to work. I don't know anything wron^
with what Mr. Bentley has done. I think he ^s doing good work. There are more
field.M now since Mr. Bentley has been agent than there were before. F.ven I myst^lf
have a field and a home on account of Bentley helping me. I have 80 acres fenced,
and my field is about 10 acres. Mr. Bentley ^ve me a wagon and a plow, a harrow,
mowing machine. I have a house and a wigwam both on my farm. He gave me
a rake and four pitchforks. He gave me a grubbing hoe, ax. When I am at work
he gives me something to eat. And he hiui a«weli made for me. I made all the
fence, the farmer helping me to lay the line straight. I made the posts myself, and
put them, and tacked on the wire. Mr. Bentley gave me the wire. Mr. Bentley
gve me a lamp and an oil can. Mr. Bentley gave me all these things. Before Mr.
mtley was agent I didn't have anything; now, since he is agent, I am all right.
I had eight stacks of hay this falL
Pan o wa (his x mark).
Witnesses to signature:
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
William £. Shawnee.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bkbde,
United States Indian Jruipectcr,
I, the undersigned, William E. Shawnee, certify that I have carefully interpreted
the foregoing to Pan o wa, and that he fully understood the same before signing.
William £. Shawnee.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyruh Brkde,
' United States Indian Jimpeclor,
AFFAIRS OF THB MBXIOAN KICEAPOO INDIANS* 2079
William Shawneb, being fint duly affinned, teetifies as follows:
I am the official interpreter of the White Turkey band. We held a council and
we may have been mistaken. It was represented that Mr. Field was to be paid out
of any public money that might become due the tribe; if it was after ten ^ears.
Then we sent for Wnite Turkey, the chief, and then we had a second council. It
was then that the protest was signed, because we supposed that Big Jim was acting
for all of his people, not just for his band. I have this day heard the statement of
Big Jim, made at a council held at the Kickapoo village September 24, 1898. I have
no objections against this statement. If I had known just what Biff Jim had done
at the time of our council, I would not have had any objection to what he did, and
I think nobody else would have had. I don't know that Mr. Field or Mr. Ben tie v
has ever tried to induce any of the Indians to leave their land and go elsewhere. A
good many of the Shawnees left and went to the Caddo country. And a good many
of the Big Jim band went to the Washita country to work. They refused to take
their allotments. A good many of the White Turkeys went to the Creek countVy.
Thev all took their allotments before they went; they went there to graze their
cattle. Some came back and some stayed.
WiLLLAM Shawmbb, (hifl X mark).
Witnesses to signature:
Mrs. W. W. Scott.
DuDLVT H. Shawnbb.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 27th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bebdb,
UniUd States Indian Inspector.
TEBRrroRY OF Oklahoma, PottaiocUomie County^ ss:
O. S. McEwen, being duly affirmed, states as follows: I am a railway passengei^
conductor, and have been engaged in the train service of the Choctaw, Oklahoma
and Gulf Kailroad Company and its predecessor, the Choctaw Coal and Railway
Company, for the past eight years. I have been acquainted with Assistant Special
United States Indian A^nt Mfartin J. Bentley for the last past four years. Prior to and
at the date of his appointment, I was running a regular passenger train every other
day through 7 miles of the Kickapoo country, and have been running said train
regularly m said manner to this date.
The Kickapoos have always traveled more or less on my train between McLoud
and Shawnee, Okla. Before Mr. Bentley's appointment an occasional Kickapoo
rode with me, and they at that time were dirty, filthy savages in appearance.
For the past two years I have noted a gradual chanee in their appearance, and
more of them have ridden with me. They make a clean and decent appearance
now, many of them wearins citizen's clothes, who formerly wore blankets. And I
have particularly noticed the change in the appearance of the country along this
7 miles that I travel of their countrjr. At the time of Mr. Bentelv's appointment,
from the point where the Choctaw railroad crosses the North Canadian Kiver to the
west boundary line of Shawnee, there was not an inclosed field at that time in sight
of the railroad; since that time I have noticed the Kickapoo Indians erecting fences,
breaking land, and more particularly making ha}^, along the railroad in the Kickapoo
country, and there are fields and Indian habitations generally along the line of the
road now. I have observed the Indians hauling hay, com, and farm produce from
their farms to Shawnee, and it has been a common remark by passengers on orr
train, who knew Mr. Bentley, that he was making great success with his work among
the Kickapoos.
Before Mr. Bentley's appointment as assistant special Indian agent, he was in the
employ of this company, as traveling agent, which position he resigned to accept his
present one; I was acouainted with his standing among the railroad people and can
say that he was regarded as honest, sober, industrious, faithful, and progressive. No
man in the railroad service enjoyed a higher degree of esteem on account of hia
fidelity than did Mr. Bentley.
O. S. McEwsN.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Beedb,
United States Indian Inspector,
2080 AFFAIRS OF THB MEZIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Jameb H. Mazet, being duly affirmed, teetifles as follows:
I live in Shawnee, president of the First National Bank, and I am acquainted with
Mr. Bentley, have been for five or six years. I know when he was appointed special
agent for the Kickapoo Indians. The Kickapoo Indian Reservation joins the town, and
I am acquainted with a Rreat many Kickapoo Indians. I often see Mr. Bentley with
them and attending to tneir business for them, and I hear no complaint against him
in regard to his conduct toward the Indians from them. I think he is well qualified to
fill the place that he has. Since he has taken charge of them I see that they are bring-
ing hay and wood and things to sell, and are fencing up more land adjoming town
here than they did. In fact, when he took the agency there was no land fenced in
around Shawnee at all; there were no Kickapoo Indians near Shawnee for several
miles. They were near the Kickapoo village. They have a laiige pasture against
town, and they pasture my horse and cow and I pay them for it. These pastures
and fences have all been built and fixed at Mr. Bentley's suggestions near Snawnee,
in the Kickapoo. I see that there is an improvement in Uie In(}ians in and around
Shawnee since Mr. Bentley has taken charge of them. Since Mr. Bentley has taken
charge of them they have taken up a good deal of their land, and are cutting a good
deal of their hay in and around Shawnee here.
J. H. Maxst.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
Ctnes Beedb,
United Stata Indian Inspector.
E. W. SwEENBT, being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
My first acquaintance with the Kickapoo tribe of Indians dates back to 1890;
since which time I have had a very intimate ac(]uaintance with almost every individ-
ual member of the tribe, knowing them by si^ht and by name. Being a notary
public, I did the notary work for most of the tribe, whenever such work was neces-
sary to be done; was frequently called to their village for the purpose of examining
ana reading papers at their council meetings, and fully believe that I have a more
intimate acquaintance with the mode of living, the habits, and manners of the
Kickapoo Indians than any other white man in Oklahoma, unless it should be the
Sac and Fox a^nt, in charge at that time. During all the ^ears prior to the allot-
ment the Mexican band of Kickapoo Indians resided in a village, about three miles
and a half northeast of my home. Their condition was pitiable. They felt that
they had been unfairly dealt with by the Government, ana made very free to de-
clare the manner and methods used by the commissioners who claimed to have
made a treaty with them, for the cession of their lands to the Government When
Moses Neal came into the reservation, as allotting agent, and began his labors as said
agent, one of their councilmen, to wit. Pah pa shik itt came to my house, and took
me to the village, and at the council, held that night at the request of the chief at
that time, I read various and sundry papers, the property of the tribe, to the
council, the purport of which I do not now remember. At the close of the council
the chief, Wah pah ma sha, ordered the entire band of Kicking Kickapoos to move
to Deep Fork, where they remained and refused to accept their allotments, claiming
the same had been given to them by fraud and deceit, practiced upon them by the
progressive Indians. They refused to accept their allotments — refused to lease them
or occupy them in any manner. As a friend of the Indians I did my utmost to
encourage them to take their allotments or to lease them, but utterly failed; they
never took any of their allotments nor made any sign of improvement upon them
until within the last year and a half or two years. In my opinion, the greater
portion of the allotments which are now occupied and improved, by the Kicking
band of the Kickapoos, is owins principally, to the efforts and infiuence of Mr.
Bentley. At the time Mr. Bentley took charge, there were none of the Kicking
Kickapoos on their allotments, nor had any of them ever leaded any of their land, to
the best of my knowledge; nor have I any knowledge of any of them having once
located upon their allotment ever leaving the same.
I have been intimately acouainted with Mr. Bentley's work since he has been
employed as special agent, ana know of no instance where he encouraged or tried to
induce any of said Indians to leave their reservation or allotments, but upon the con-
trary, I was with him at one time, to wit, about August, 1897, when he met several
wagonloads of Kickapoos who said they were going to the Caddo country. He
objected to it, and informed them that if they left without permission, he would do
his best to have the soldiers return them to the reservation.
Some time during the month of August, I met Mr. Brosius, S. M. Brosius. the
maker of these chai:ge8 againat Mr. Bentleyi and he informed me that he had been
APFAIBS OF THB MEXI0A17 KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2081
referred to me by Mrg. Elizabeth Tees, of the Kickapoo Mission; that she had stated
to him that if there was any crooked business in connection with the leasing of the
Kickapoo lands done by Mr. Bentley or with his knowleilge, I was the person who
would, in all probability, be able to give him full and reliable statements in refer-
ence to the same. He also said that he was looking up crookedness in connection
with the leasing of the land through Mr. Bentley. Askea if I did not know of Bentley
being mixed up in crooked transactions, to wit, the leasing of Indian lands without
the knowledge or consent of the Indian owning the same, etc. To all of which Ques-
tions my answer was, no. Mr. Brosius took no testimony from me nor dia he
insist upon me giving any, when he learned what it would probably be.
R W. BwvsxsT.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
Ctrub Bbkdb,
United Statet Indian Inspeetor.
C. M. Cadb, being first duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I reside in Shawnee, have since 1894; am assistant cashier of the First National
Bank of Shawnee. When the Choctaw road built through the Kickapoo Reserva-
tion there was an injunction gotten out for the purpose of prohibiting them from
building through the reservation, and being interested in the town of Shawnee and
working for the Choctaw road I came in contact with the Kickapoo Indians, making
several trips and sleeping in their camps, which were on Deep Fork and Captain
Creek; most all of them were banded toother, and at this time, which was in 1894
and 1895, there was one frame house, in which lived an Indian that was noted for
being the only Kickapoo who did any manual lobor. I have watched the progress
of this particular tribe with great interest, and the only progress that they have ever
made during this period has been under the management of Martin J. Bentley, spe-
cial United States Indian agent A ^reat number now are living on their allotments,
doing farming, fencing, and especially making hay. During the fall of the year,
while hay is cheap, the Indians have learned not to sell, and ouite a number of them,
from time to time, have borrowed money from our bank for the purpose of carrying
their hay over for better prices. At this time they are becoming good citizens and
are prompt to pay, while four years ago you could not trust them to a ten-dollar
note with the hope of getting it back.
0. M. Oadb.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
Cyrus Bebdb,
United StaUi Indian Intpedor.
Joseph Clare, being first duly affirmed, deposeth and saith:
I am Government farmer for the Kickapoos.
Q. How long have you been in this business? — A. Since last March.
Q. Have your services been confined to the Kicking Kickapoos or the Progressive^ —
A. All of them.
Q. This council, held on July 14 at Sac and Fox Agency, says that Mr. Bently came
with Clark to see us; he says, **I come to have a talk with you. In a short time I
wiJl be your agent and Clark will be your farmer. They then left and Mr. Clark has
never been to see us since." This was on July 14; do you recollect whether you
have done anythiiip^ for the Kickapoos as farmer? — A. Yes, sir; there are four families
that I have assisted in digging wells, four of the Progressives, and helping them with
their cotton.
Q. Under whose instructions did you do this? — A. Mr. Bentley's.
Q. Have you done any other work for them? — A. Yes, sir; I have been up and
measured hay ground when they would sell their hay to the white men and help
them to collect the money.
Q. You are pretty well acquainted with Mr. Bentley and the Indians? — A. Yes,
sir.
Q. Has he neglected them or otherwise? — A. I don't think he has neglected them;
no, sir.
Q. You think he has done his duty toward them? — A. Yes, sir; I think so.
Q. Do you know of any good reason that anybody, of the Indians, should have to
complain of their treatment — his treatment toward them? — A. I do not.
Q. How about the Kicking Kickapoos? What have you done for them? — A. I
have done a good deal for them. I assisted Mr. Bentley prior to my appointment —
worked for them. I have helped them put up their fences, etc.
Q. Have they improved any in the last two yeanS— ^ X^^ «a«
3082 AYPAIM 09 THB MBXIOAH KIORAPOO INDIANS.
Q. What improTements have they made— the Kickinff Kickapoos?— A. I think
there are four or five familiee that have got onto their landB.
Q. Is that all you have aticoeeded in getting onto their allotmentef? — A. Yes, eir.
Q. It seema to me I 0ee more than that around here living on them.— A. 0 ke ma
is the first one next to the river; l^r the is the next one; there are about pix in O ke
ma*8 family; Par the, there are two in the family there; Par the's son, Me ne na nish,
there are three in his family; Kah kah to the quah, she is next; in this inclosure there
are two families, one a Kicker and the other a Progressive; the Progressive's wife is
a Kicker; in these two feimilies there are eight — nve in one and three in the other.
The next family is Ah ko the; he has a fence around his land, has settled on it, and
is working it; the father and mother and their children live on their land; I dn^
them a well: I should judge there are six or seven in it; his son-in-law lives with
him; he has his inclosed; they all live in the same enclosure— they all live together,
and all work and all eat together. The next one is Men na the qua; there are lour in
her family — four or five in her family. Pan owa is the next one —three in his family.
Wah pe chequa has always lived with his brother, and his uncle has 80 adjoin-
ing it. This Indian's individual land lavs upon the hill, and I would not call it
valuable land for farming. He has leaeea his children's land, there being no other
Indians living around there; he leased this land and came to the eastern part of the
reservation, and lives with his brother. He helps his brother farm his land and
helps farm some of his uncle's land adjoining, and helped to improve it.
Q. Will you tell me how many of the Kicker Indians, located on the Kicker land
as a whole, are endeavoring to obtain their own support by farming?— A. All of
Uiem. Ah chee che, he works his land and crops it; ne farms his land all right.
Q. How much com do you think he has raised this year? — A. I should think a
couple of hundred bushels. He had pK>tatoes, melons, beans and pumpkins — such as
that that they all raise. They try to raise cabbage — I don't know whetner he has any
or not. They bring hay here to sell, and wood, the families clo8e to town brin^ in
Suite a good deal, and quite a bit of hay. It brings them in quite a revenue; they
o pretty well; the^ would have done better if they had gotten their machinery in
time. l%ey were issued when the machines came; they were purchased by the
department, and didn't get here. No fault of myself or Air. Bently that they didn't
get here.
Q. From what you know of the case, do you believe that Mr. Bently has per-
formed his whole duty toward these Indians?- A. 1 don't know what the duty of
an agent is and that is why I can't answer the Question.
Q. Do you know of your own personal knowledge of any failure on his part to do
his duty?— A. No, sir; I couldn't say that I do.
Q. Is there any prejudice at the present time existing in your mind toward Mr.
Bently?— A. No. sir.
Q. Have you nad any conversation with Mr. Patrick or Mr. Whatly in re^'anl to
this investigation? — A. Yes, sir. Mr. Patrick is agent at Sac and Fox Agency, and
my understanding is that Whatlv is the clerk.
Q. Now tell me the nature of the conversation that you had with them? — A. In
regard to these Indians, about how they were progressmg in their work and how
they understood matters generally?
(.1. State what you have said to them in regard to these Indians? — A. I told Mr
Patrick about how many Indians got on their lands; I told him I think four or five
families; I told him they don't know anything about this allotment I >nfliii('8Hi they
don't understand it that way at all.
Q. Still you say they claim their land and sell hay and stuff off of it?— A. Yop, nir.
Q. Do you think they would allow a white man to take tliin latui?— A. No, nir.
Q. Would they claim it as their own then if a whitt? man wtrit on it? — A. They
claim it as their own; yes, sir. They have taken their land, and uhc it, and U8e
the proceeds.
Q. Still they haven't taken it? — A. That is al)out the size of it. I wan Htan<linjr on
the outaide of the tent, and not in presence of the council when I hoard Mr. FicM
say to these Indians in council, settle wherever you please, on Kicker hindH, it in all
yours.
Q. What was the further nature of your conversation with Mr. Patrick and Mr.
Whatly? — A. I don't remember now. I think Mr. Whatly a«ked me something
about the purchase of supplies here for the Indians, but I don't remember jubt what
was said in regard to that.
Q. How long has it been since? — A. In July, some time.
Q. Have you any suggestions to make in connection with these Indians wherein
you think a change of programme would be advantageous to them? —A. I don't
think Mr. Bently and Mr. Field exercise sufficient firmness toward thche Indianu, I
AFFAIB8 03f THE MISaCAK KIOKAPOO tKDIAKS. 2083
^iiik they an m little dack, and they don't explain matten to them here as the
Government meane that they should understand it
Q. Wherein do you think Mr. Bently slack or lacking in firmness? — A. Mr. Bently
and I disagreed on Pan O wa's location after his land was fenced, well dug, and
house built; then he had his own field made; then Mr. Bently allowed him to go
back to the village and plant a small patch of corn that he didn't cultivate and didn't
amount to anything.
Q. Did he cultivate his farm that he left behind? — A. Part of it he did. Some of
it was pretty fair, some of it didn't amount to much. He had beans, Kaffir com,
onions, potatoes, pumpkins, Irish and sweet potatoes, melons.
Q. Is there any other case of slackness that you think of now? — A. Oh, I don't
know; I don't remember just now.
Joseph Olabk.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 30th day of September, 1898.
Cybus Bbedb,
UrvUed States Indian InspecUyr.
0. J. Benson, being duly affirmed, testifies as follows:
I live in Shawnee, Okla. I am cashier of Shawnee National Bank. I have known
Mr. Bently about six years, and that I have known the condition of the Kickapoos,
so far as a casual observer might have known them; that I was well acquainted with
the condition of the Kickapoos before Mr. Bently took chaive of them, and am
fairly well acouainted with their condition now. I consider the condition greatlv
improved, and I attribute it to Mr. Bently's management. I know before he took
charge of them that there was not a stroke of work done among them, and that since
that time they have gone to mowing the grass and cultivating their farms and
improving them. There was absolutely no improvement on the ground west of
town before he took charge of them. I have driven all over that countrjr, both
before and after the opening. I am a great hunter, and I have been hunting all
over that country, and I can state that I never saw a Kicking Kickapoo outside of
the town or settlement on Deep Fork, cultivating land, or at work; that since that
time, since Mr. Bently has taken charge of them, I have personally observed various
settlements and land improved and now being worked and cultivated by these Kick-
apoos. Their farms are fenced, ground broken up, and growing crops upon them.
This is, I believe, something unheard of among the Kickapoos. The kickapoos
have always been considered by the people of this county as being the least civilized
of all the tribes, having the least disposition for anything in the nature of work. We
have always felt heretofore that the Kickapoos would be burdens to the taxpayers
of this county, and I believe now they are in a fair way to become self-supporting
without any change of programme.
0. J. Benson.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 30th day of September, 1898.
• Cyrus Begde,
United States Indian Inspector,
South McAlester, Ind. T.
Indian Territory, Central IHstrict, ss:
1, J. W. McLoud, being first duly sworn, depose and say that I am general solio-
itor of the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad Company, and that I am well and
personally acquainted with Mr. M. J. Bently; that 1 have carefully read the report
and charges of S. M. Brochius wherein Special Agent Martin J. Bently, in charge of
the Mexican Kickapoos and Big Jim band of Indians of Oklahoma Territory, is
charged with numerous failures of duty, and with bad administration of his trust as
agent to said Indians. In connection with these charges I desire to say that I am
general solicitor of the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad Company, and that
my duties in that position have frequently brought me through the Mexican Kickapoo
Reservation, both prior to the appointment of Mr. Bently and since his appointment.
At the time of his appointment, the Kicking band of Mexican Kickapoo Indians
were located on Deep Y ork, living upon school lands, and had refused to even live
in the North Canadian Valley on land that had been allotted. Soon after Mr.
Bentley's appointment, during the spring of 1896, he succeeded in moving these
Indian? to tiic Kickapoo Springs in the North Canadian Valley, and since that time
has induced numerous families of them to move out upon their lands and make
2084 AFFAIRS OF THS MBXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
homes for themselves and their bunilies. Prior to his appointmeiit the Ki(^«poo
lands adjoining Shawnee on the west and extendinj^ for many miles along the North
Canadian River were as nature had made them, with the exception of a few Indian
trails, and the roadbed of the Choctaw Railroad. I personally know that these
Indians have made great advancement toward civiliaation; that prior to 1896
they practically had never made any effort for self-support; that since that time,
they have been taught by Mr. fiently to cut ha^ and wood and to bring
numerous kinds of uurm products to market Their appearance has altogether
changed. Formerly they were a dirty, filthy race, and the conductors running
our trains often made remarks about their offensive smell, and detested them, while,
since they have been in Mr. Bentley's charge, they have entirely changed in this
respect They look clean, and make a decent appearance. These results as well
as observation satisfies me that Mr. Bentley has been most energetic and that he has
been conscientious in the discharge of his trust The Choctaw Railroad Com-
pany has had reason to be especiallv interested in the success of Mr. Bentley 's work,
trom the fact that this large body of land lying along and tributary to our road was
lying unimproved prior to his appointment, and it is only natural that we should
have watched the process he has made with more than ordinary interest
I further state that I know personally that Mr. Bentley has given substantially
all of his time to the work and care of these Indiansj that he has labored faithfully
to guard and protect their interests, and I think he is entitled to very great credit
for what he has done for these Indians. He has accomplished more for them and
done more to subserve the interests of the Indian and also the interests of the Gov-
ernment than any Indian agent I know of having charge of them during the past
seven years. I think it is for the interest of the Government that Mr. Bentley be
upheld and strengthened and his authority increased.
J. W. McLouD.
Subscribed and sworn to before me on this 30th day of September, 1898.
[sBAL.] B. £. Camfbmll, NUary Publk.
Indian Tbriutort, Central District, ss:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, Henry Wood, who,
upon oath, states as follows:
I am the general manager of the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad Company,
and am located at South McAlester, Ind. T. I am personally acquainted with
Assistant Special United States Indian Agent Martin J. Bently, wno resigned a posi-
tion with our company to take charge of the Mexican Kickapoo Indians. As man-
ager of this company, I have taken a special interest in the outcome of Mr. Bently's
work with the Kickapoo Indians, from the fact that our line crosses their allotted
lands for a distance ot some seven or eight miles, and after crossing their lands our
line follows the south side of the North Canadian River to the west end of the
Kickapoo allotted lands, which extend along the north side of the river.
At tne time of Mr. Bently's appointment, these lands were practically in a verdant
state; for miles west of Shawnee, Okla., the Kickapoo lands were entirely uninhab-
ited and unimproved, and prior to his appointment these Indians had refused to
either live upon or improve their lands, or to lease and have them improved, and we
being common carriers were, naturally, interested in seeing this country developed
and made paying territory for our company. Mr. Bently has induced many of these
Indians to make homes and farms for themselves and families, and to lease and have
their lands put in cultivation, who, prior to his appointment, refused to have any-
thing done or to lease or recognize tneir lands in any way. Their country is now
well under fence; my observation is that Mr. Bently nas rnade a great success in his
work among these Indians, and I personally know that many of the charges pre-
ferred against him by S. M. Brosius are without foundation. Mr. Bently has the
confidence and highest esteem of both myself and other officers of the company, and
his services to this company were entirely satisfactory Mr. Bently is a man of
energy, honesty, sobriety, and ability, and has succeecied in all his efforts to ad-
vance' the interests of the wards under his care.
H. Wood.
Subscribed and affirmed to before me this 29th day of September, 1898.
[aiAL.] B. £. Campbbll, Notary Pubtie,
yi T=T nmzLs izrxuo: 33^
VnninipiDf. 3 C
IE Wirt o-Ji* -2 -'^■' ^ • 2»eini*" mbhiluti- •r.e-aii .iintfi MO» lurliti iu!»si: s
%i«:v^«!flt izr ■ i«i'.ji::ir ' tjkhi x jiL*^rrxi ilj:ti;:i.i: lutinuft.
mipin :#t -Liiir-.iypL wsui i^a*: lusr -.i iiC/ i*r;i:ii*^ I irfl- rsiiu:-*-: mn i: hxlaa^
▼•lusa. I iArvvr.1 ffi-imi: TUfc^i • ♦ t:.':i" ±_ " •• m --ii* wr^-i'jw -.c at T "if.
'<'i*iiWfC ej^f .« fc^:mii*sn iii*s~i:»i»»;i ii Jt.- 2t*!i':i*7'f .nr,r.i-, "5^ * r.:u:»- t v.. "^ "uii
•TLiiniiiflCi'.a :c *flA*n. '.ii* ltiI i.iuiii zia :nv;r-.-'''Ki»*!irs i** i •li.'Vf. -•'«••— -.::i "■. •v:«.'^t£
?(:• 2»»Jiiiie' lut-c*': • I_r.:..:L-i " ilr.rr-** 1'' . » . i.* mt. !"_ iTi. L" ... i"-! i"^ Kt
n**fiii:*»r¥ ir : i* itii-Lj X.* i»*fir:i*'' !rii::r;* *::»**» t*- *? : u^i rr****. :;i-i:ir kL-.^rn**: unt
iiM!firi**i n. •r^-iuic >L.T ? '.ir.*" i* v :.-* -.:;**': i*'j-»-* :i -.i.:-— t-.iii. I !••■-»* -.c w th'jl
▼-*r» 'jT-.iBfHL :•« ^'' n- L4mr.1i- v i-:i* Him. uiii :»ti: j »• *." lii:.;i;i :: zruriiir 1^* 1a- v-
irjL' f iiiii«t ♦ r^fr HT*f *.r".it*!i ':7 'sir Zl*^:;** •:. ▼:::".* :z. *:i.'j:;r.:jy* !■.»• uii* v*!!
nur 17 ▼1:^«^ nas:. jl- "/arc. r.nr ▼•.t.r.i**! cir,-^ u-.i: 1 ▼:•» cu^^f* :»» vi-r xn;--* i:-^
11 -r. 1: 'JS: "nnwiii*-^:. 11* •:»*7 Kiii-ii:ir v. Ti".r :::n£ -.ij* ^ ▼ •.i".»:i*s. ct"*?* v**^ :i:fa:i*- "■ .it
*»'.-n: Bill jO r icv»r :»'i 1 ▼: ■-.* i .i-.i*;*^* :"• if • l: ".*>: 'jii* vjh. :»Lk*-iii.:-zi-.jt
»*ai'_'*- ▼»;- ::'ur *. •; ▼ : - r"*t nit:, a .• 7ii*-£ n: n:ii : ii "i. ■* ■ li i ■. »: . Tr »- : : 1 1*- l ^ . . i :i>
V** i^H * rs' V.I* Jt' tu: -'»♦ f* mvn :»e-f .c 1 .. zizll. -> jf' l^s.\k*r usr. iirii'T*
'ii*i« ift '^u^ft liiT-iiiT !!••■••: r^: till iii'v 1 "Zjt :»: -:i*'l» i*. '.r.::i^;: •:* i nil*** w.i^*
j.-t h'T** n. •.M.n ■ Kiiin. ".»: v : i':i T b"*^*?* v*?^ *.»:-■. t-*fi '."^ ii*iir'.. .■' a. '...•*■ 1:»1 '-::n
I-*** ^liiii ■■»*•: '7 AT '.'a.-r uiii .' _■•' •.•"•« :•!£ v*:. 1 -^i *■' .\i.-c I :.i:v». Tiit
t-ij r.iuKi^ i'^ i» i-^L— '.. i^ti L.L i::i :»• 't'v.i*".:":* rL;b:«T :" i-r*— ^.. 0*- II'. Ls
Ji" cLi *• **.':!*■ t V •:..i.': .. htr*** it ■••„": ■ tr.i •! ':.:>■ :l:'1 v u» i. "'"".icr^ :t
if»ar". JCllit -■». "-u" "'-rr* v*r» T'ilv.^: i" •.i-ir-. Ji . h. i.-ii 7.i.t v :.-it ii:ti It
ni'.H* wii'*- ▼*:! :-.nf v; v :_:"-* 7!;fcT itV .'a.-c :#•:••: ;'i-: :•; "Ut* L.. cv-* j. lij:.:iii
min-Tirirj: .••••: th**: :■ i..":*"-^ ii !:•: a.: *^' •*. ♦. 1 i~^^*^ 1'" . ;t '•' u«' v.i: u -l:
':! fc'.r>* :l:i: "»* i '•: *" v: * n:i.:. .'It ?:v*-1. ▼ i.i'ji .l.- l**.*:".!-- ::i..: y.r ji
luiiiHi 111- V- : :;i ■ ' .""arE :i.:.: ii.n il •.-..-• l.. •:. l:.: ii.-: ■.• ■ . t-i-:.
♦.'.i'.r»** I .1 > •! ■. :;L*. :>i.: :♦ v-.i** '•..•'-»-"i ;-. -::.- r. ".i* '. '. u'j--* ii.:i: •1— .•c*a "T"
▼ i-.T* :i;i;:. .•> Li.: ' :_'-• ▼ :• "--:•*•: Mi* :»-'^-i.j**i'.»i :c at -v-^:*.!*" ".. I'oar: :i
"T'r.fi. v"! ' ii* L.:i:i- "W".!.!!* .::r "ijl" :♦* vwh'.' c"* i ■ "'■"*r "''i*- i::".* '.lit !r".r:
Tiuf i* Li i-in '^i:*^ '.i-a:!* y\i' »ir '.'.i- i'.i v i-.j- i.:-: ■• •:.'•':• •■ i. ■ ■■.-r^
t.. i.rv*- ■ r* 1* '..'. i.. "I* 1*1: * '.: ""-*— 1 i:-.":.* ■ - iL'.i. .: '■: ' •t:'.i:i: '.'. lo:--*'
iu:i: :r. '£.*.»: :" a.- Zi.-.'. '.Tiry vii vl- -a. : *-.* : JtiLjz. t-tj i-.r :'-raic::!r itnt
li-r ••«.•• 1" I »»-:.
t..".r.ri** i-:: v*- : -.:i ■■" '',i,-e i.- "Ht*:-- .-?!■ 'i' '1 '.-'t :»-•:•♦*•» •• i::^u*r»
V ".:"»**■ I. < ■" — : • - ■ V '. I •■::•*'■.■♦ 7":—^ i/- ■•: .• "i-'ll :«•■. ii^>j* v : if?i
TTi* 'I'ViLZi*' ■■". ' : •■- "■■-■ V--.* v. .■»— : .• ■"c "l".**" i.ii: '.i:-.":!! 'i*^*.:'
fB-M^ji'- V .'-» ■'.. ■ i -. i V ■ - -. ■.:i.~— • ::i.:.;-'i .. v ■.- v t* --•r.i. ■"*-: v.j**: '.ii»
_'.ii.".a*:** v*"^ ■• •: :•: : : 7 ■.- ■ l.-* ■ •.1:'-' l* ':•* " a*^'- *' "i:v.' i r. .1*?* "•"•n
••IitVTi*** i".:i' I.*- V '"i. •■ .'. '.: 'H U-'I '. ' "•-'" '♦►•^ '.r ■■-.*■ ■■;.• !•• ■,.■"->•- r. .-^^ V ••
3»*"-.i--' ;* :. ■ -■ ■ — : ■ I.:'' '.r*-::" :: •mi:Ii-'.--i:»i ▼""LI -ii* •:.■" 'i~- '*. ■.»" ".'.•r*^ :-.-iU*
BTi -.ii* • ••■■ '■- : ' ' i'.'-L.- .* : a 'v ••'.
• '.1 rvfr ' ■.;L- ' :■ *— .". '-. - " t." >: W^'. '. \it '^ '."iKrt U.r.rn**^ ."•- ■' :u'.4:.
¥iiv i* ••• -^ ■ ■■ .-." • -■-- * :-' 1^. 1-*^. :-T- -'i* ::i'r r:" 1' "* i" • - fr
14: 1-" I--L M - ■ . :- : I'-' L i".:ii*n:T» ?Lt' :ii:» "•-*•: v..ii'.i- .1: ::.i.: ■ •"
*.:»* l-.i'.LO*: lii-iii' • • • ■ *. V ■. •.— I.:.: .".:'.. :i.:j*. uiii .^> 2r^-_K'; Sj^i.:.* '.itr-t I.:-. ,1.::*
lit'* ▼■•-c>-: 'ul' I."' '■..,•: li- '..-•r* li-T r.Ti'.'V livv ii'.rri.
TPii>- t£i u'—'T* ••■ .l:-: :r-."ti-. uiit :i •i.-:—ir:i:ii. *^ :.i. -?• 1 I.:-: a.: ■ '::— - 'v*-
::. Tir hiim: ■: i.:-: ♦* l-'v^: ■.■• ■:!' ■•: ":*l" 'i -i" ::.:■: ■»*■£.": v v : ■•> ■ -■
i.:.:i I'xt .' : :■.>' r: v ".a. ■ ii^ lii*. ;l^» ";r.:- fa.r-i* :: '■: ii".. ■:. Z':-.- • .. ■ i
¥11. '.-.ii I. ■■- vr .• :.- : • — 1 i.-' '* :.L* ■•—'•. *-:,:■ •-. -' '.*'.• ".- • - - -•
Itf'•*^ :i -»'■" vi ".:- ■.-«» .■• r-'V -T.if i.-.r ii .'.,*»-.-.i"* '.ii v.iv::. :»i:- .Ct 1»--i - l- •■ r
Hi* JL." Win •.:w Zn -r u.':i* l: • w^-jk. v '-r '" — - "• -.v-.*
2086 AFFAISS OF THB MBXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
ducting Indian affairs. Mr. Bentley admits havina sold much Indian hay, the money
from which he has expended for the benefit of the Indians, so he claims. He has
no vouchers to show for any transactions he makes; says he takes no receipts and
gives none; keeps no books and has no records of any kind. Have been to the camp
several times and see no signs of civilization in their mode of dress, habits, or meth-
ods of living. I found only one Indian, John Mines, dressed as a white man or
partly so.
Mr. Bentley complains that these Indians suffered for want of agricultural tools
and implements. I would state there are 3 cows at Dent in charge of a farmer who
found them at large. Five iron rod breaking plows at Shawnee school, 2 stoves and
cookine utensils at the school, 6 males, 3 wagons, about 30 rolls of galvanised iron
wire all in charge of Mr. Bentley from the last issue. The Indians refused to accept
them and Mr. Bentley is a little embarrassed to know just what to do with them.
A few days ago Allottee 252, Ko kah to saque, a widow, came to me oomplaininff
that Mr. Bentley had allowed white men to occupy her lands without a lease and
asked to have them removed. Upon inquiry, Mr. Bentley informed me that the
Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad, who formerly employed Mr. Bentley, had
asked permission to experiment for water on this land and nad paid him $25, which
he had paid the woman. The woman says it took her over a month to get this
money, as it was given her in small amounts and partly in rations, and she wanted
Uie men removed. I inspected the property, and find they have cut some timber
and dug a reservoir for the storage of water. They have 15 points or wells com-
pleted and are now putting down 10 more. In conversation with the superintendent
ne informed me they had an enormous supplv of excellent water. The ground had
been located by an expert after spending much money in various places. They claim
to be building this to supply the new car shops here, but I am creditably informed
they intend to supply toe town. The water rights in any instance would be very
valuable here. I bring this matter before you without recommendations, as Mr.
Bentley informs me the railroad company have applied for a term lease, and the
Dej)artment is fully informed of the purpose for which the land is wanted.
I inclose, as a part of this report, a copy of a report made by Mr. Bentley to
Special Apent Oglesby on February 15 last, marked ** Exhibit B," for comparison
with report made to me August 6, marked ** Exhibit A."
I would recommend that Mr. Bentley be removed and the office abolished, for the
reason that I believe the agent at Sac and Fox can do as much, if not more in the
way of civilizing these Indians than Mr. Bently can ever do, and at far less expense
to the (iovernment.
Very respectfully, 0. F. Nbsleb, Ingpectcr.
BxHiBiT No. 89 [Ooode].
Depabtment of the Intbriob,
Unfted States Indian Service,
Shmi-neef Okla., August 6, 189t.
Hon. 0. F. Nesler, VniUd State$ Indian Inspector ^ Shawnee^ Okla,
Sir: Complying with your request, I have the honor to submit for your consider-
ation the within report of improvements made and labor performed by the Kicking
Mexican Ki(*ka[>oo Indians. I also beg to submit my report of February 15, 1897,
and now on file with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, as a part of this report.
Indians living upon and cultivating their allotments and improvements made
thereon are as follows :
Allottoei* 270. 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, occupying the south } of section 24. lots 1, 2,
and 5, of section 25 ; lots 3, 4, 6, and 7, same section, T. 10, R. 3 £., in all contain-
ing 477.62 acres.
Three miles of fence erected around above tract of land ; fence erected around
field inside of above tract, three-fourths of a mile ; acres of land broken and in crop,
about 16; one well, 48 feet deep, good water; 4 large, substantial wooden gates
erected, 2 wire gates ; 1 large corral, containing 2 acres. Total number of acres used
for affricultural purposes by above-named allotteee, 477.62.
Allottee numl>er 266, NE. \ of the SE. i and lot 7, section 23, T. 10. R. 3 E.,
83.50 acres. This tract is under a substantial 3- wire fence, 25 acres in cultivation,
sood well of water, suhHtantial frame house, dugout, and oorrals and outbuildings.
Lnprovementa uiade by lessiee.
▲77AIK •:? THM MSSXSM ZICKaTCO T^MA^iiL 90^7
T'X. r^. 3iH->«ir una x smnb. W bqrs: wbL S iiB bm|^ "V axK*-ia£ t£ «»
y^ 1'^' :-? J-, •ii !!!?«&
^li rn*ii > ITr I. r :?fi. X i'l-dl-S i.. ±mmL
^.i f~i***?f i"'* ::'' iTf "Ti :ru":Tir *ih^ fl. : •**••- 1-4 T *)[. "E, I Z... mc ja-L hoc
-It* ~I. : -- ::•• .'I. : fh'.. .^. -! L. ":ri:n:n.:iAr "ISV **f h^r«*. :ir!i:Hfti -vr:! m;!-
▼"-• i*':i"* l: •::• "i --^-i.iu'nitf :»" '. n-li*. Jt*i: T!?-* :aiiiri**:. i.:i:iii: li»li «•:•: ▼=«!
irKiu ii*ir. :•: *» ii':r«fe ?':Hn* i«-u~*— *•: --^b:7 l: lit ST.. Tr?» AEHS iii:Xi<nixx]liiL
:r .L*?T. . '.in '*rr :r b*— *-*. •»".
i'l - f »: --ii* -"^ r «" LI-II— i L. H] a2--fc 5mi:i*r x hs-^ zr^.tLOL ant
n — •: ■ ■•;l:'**:. In* ]**:i"^ yrv.r.^i i.:i:iii: Ij ixili«»: |r:#:»c val n: v^hsc
l'^.". I ■: ■ I'-iii." Ti_!i* '•■ i-eiiir**- HatwL
i-'j -. ■ I ".'.I* * ^' r "_i--!— ' r. •*■ fc*r«f.
I'v • ii- ."I- r r-j.-; L •<: U'r«»: i^ai 3zir :mt 'V'r^ I miH: nx^MSBxriiEL
▼ :• •:.v: ji.'.- ' u -~ »' ui-.ii :r-»t*n.
:'•'•■ 1" 1. z ' ".!.♦ -I. r ¥^:. '. -I I— I L •<: ii:r*« U. iifr»» :r ibti: n^»rfl!L ermc w*iL
»* " p ■ -.:•- *I- r :f *»*' :■". 7 ll. i. S I^ HI Msnat ieii» iXi?w-iDiir^x» e£
?■■. :> 'J. r *r•^ !"".-. --I 1. •* u^r^: wel *H iwffi owfi*
■% .-i-i.- ; « ^ . -_.,* j%'71 - «*-■ . r- . . - 1 1, •<■ li'T-'t*
■ ^ * L*i* •11. * ' ■• ***". ^. —I Z- ••?U***'t.
"■- -'f ;.:•: "' - "~ : -^' i- -i 1. m u*-***- i*!ii-i:ir " ? T!;1i^. Lfiur 3W!iBmH*C
i:ti: h V :: .• ,.--.-• , ■;. — i.-, r,. a i, •*.- ^i^^ ;i -vinin* ti '" "-':•►
"i - - ■ :.- .'' " r -** _!-..-: ^. •< !!•"'*?*• I'lTi'^iiir :m*-:;4tZ ni-i*. lunc
"'•* :;. *'". :.: ' : v : j i •: rur;* c "i.". • i ii n. •*" U'r^: ii?*«i a ^mi:;iii:ii :•• ":-"i»t
■ ■ ■'- .7. : i^'. '. .- -1 T. •*. h'"w^ in •! V t*. I hfT*** :i ifn:.
-■ ~ 1 ■'' ■ :i* - .♦.. . -i^'. i- -1 1. S. Ii'— -*■ T*iii-*- 1 n.li*. Tv-o[iAr; kCT^Et
r^ ...::.'••. ir. :■ v :: :■ • •: a-j,-* -r ■»:.■- • i.-.r»: u***-: n ••■.niiEiji :\i •rr:»h
"' '. . -■!• -T - .iu' i' — I- 7^ H ii'r**: i*!ii**!*i.
T:- ' ■ V .::r i. - -. -III. I. , .- -*^ •.; •* irtitt- rzr.xL zit'i'.'T' ulinniKSiB-inii un** nibfif'
ir *• ■". i.i • - n ii- -I."- :-»■ i.:i: :— . •♦- r n: «j'- H ? 11- i. i !• IiiH iis«>!&.
:-*• •' t '-' "-''* - I- r f^' _:. 7 1 L. 1 ±-. {il nsrwfc
:-• 2' » :■: *.:'- - ■" r r *^'. -l--_-i i- SI bt^jl
1' ■•. ±- t 'X Ml* .' r **?*'- -.-.!— I i- *•" BT"**
111?* Z- t i' • :•- 7. : f***!- . '— -* ±- ■<. B"***
111" ~. ^ ■■ :■• r ■': i^- - -■ 1. *<', B-r^a
- l""' I." -■ '■ ;.'..-' *•!: ■»T»'Ti::r Ml* *fllfr r I' «*•?. 11 ^ J I. i, J I IHf B!T^K.
-. :- i.-. :-i - " - -— . . .. 7 . 1* ; I. . **; B-r-j*.
~ ■• • iv -. - -■ i~iii Z •♦ri -■ «:•':!.": -.imi zi^i'.r \i n ' ••mnH'r'urii vja.
M ■•■ .: .:.- ■ ■ A-'- ---:..•■- !' -i: mi*- - lan: ii "I'.i'r.iTT. ^:ui.n.'.iir ~iuc
Ml- • *- .. : V ..i •.: • I-- i.\. VI l'. *::»* miti. niti n ' *!fi:iT i;i*» ■»*«n \:
;: . .; :- • :. ..: . .: :• ■:. - vi- i..:— ^-u-i ::•:. "i::iii» v ■♦— icit ia*iijiiij*t: vrj.
I., i. ■-..-'. '-..■: ■:>• • ii..:. : :> .u.t: if*':M;'rin*i.T biil a. "Uiuf I mr"* flii!«-
•■*— .1- ■-■ • ■ . ■ : -■ -i.' _•• :i* t.: ■:»*"'U*-' *ia
'. — : ■ ■.-■-:■ ..;- ".Tit ■•:.:■:•" ":Tir BriBT«a" "j: kii: fw«r 'X •^iit-rirt*
:::•■ .•■-,•■•-•■ : - V •£ :.*r* ;i.': i:ii::i.:i:i+': T^ Mi* lii:::uii«. tut -:it ▼•i.m-
— '■ ■' ■ ■ .. " ' - -M !;iti ^M I ' **! "l:!* iK^Ti*?!?: rc 1 !:jmn-ii«"*?' * liiii?*.
;-: ' ■*-. . :- v ;.i:'i: 7ii iiai* -citm. zit^sHt iiiuii* un: -*!»*" :ein.r
'-".I* ■ "-- - . . -: — i.-i:.:-: Mi*»n Lii: "lUit ▼'i*:*** Ti:»:it.iii":i'.a bu-" :ii:ii:::iir
'.". --— . . • . * '" '"**- *i.! 1'* v**^ IT III €Sii. *-irt^ !" *"'*!irT "ini'^i"'-
i - • ..-■•■ - .;-:-'- ".:-- ' :■ jk::*- uiii ?"iirirSHL Mmn 3n: ::in" iicji-
iiiL ■ V I .. • .:■ — -,-«:•• '1:1 ":iH2:' ▼■tilif. FT»a.:nir Mi*m' i:*:!!*. mii
*'' • 1 •-.-:.■•• -— ..M '. i.:i .::i:" :i u *:iii e^ :■;'*■' :i*"^. :i ""-■.nr 7:
: .: • --•..:••'■■• .;■■:.-. :: ■ i::ix '::;ir ▼ :.!•:: mi* -iv v^ :ii*iii: L^r* iit^**:
.•-'.-■'••::.-■' ■-••"■ ■■•• ■iTni-J:"! n tr\iTi ■:n* v :.'.* :i!«:i-.i* uiic
r ■ ■ ■ - ■: '.r lu"- MiiT Ml* I.ii:::i.:' :::rt-- i:t* :i»»^
u"- :.■ - -. - -• :... .It >.:aft I 1*11 ii.iiisac uiiS i. iT^-jiii u ^imiL *mi
2088 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEZIOAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
in behalf of the Kickopoo people, and in the interest of dyilbAnf this benighted and
heretofore illtreated race I ask you and the Department to consider the wail of these
free rangers, land grabbers, and Indian haters as coming from a prejudiced and
malicious source.
Martin J. Bentley,
AsMlarU Special United SUUee Indian Agent
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 6th day of August, 1897.
[seal.] a. Jomxs, Notary PubUe,
(My commission expires October 19, 1898.)
Exhibit No. 40 {Goodej.
Shawnee, Okla., Febnuiry 16, 18S7,
Hon. John T. Oolsbbt,
Special United States Indian Agent, Shawnee, Ohio,
Sir: Complying with your request, I beg to submit the following report:
On April 22 last, I was appointed United States special agent to assist your prede-
cessor, Col. James G. Dickson, in placing the Kicking Mexican Kickapoo Indians
upon their allotments. At the time of my appointment, and for more than two
years prior thereto, these Indians had refused to live upon allotted lands, and were
and had been living upon school land in the Deep Fork Valley, 10 miles north of their
allotted lands. Their occupancy of these school lands had been and was em harassing
both to Indian Agent Thomas and the Territorial officials, the Territory having leased
the school land, and the lessees were demanding possession. Indian Agent Thomas
had recommended the use of the militarv to move them, and all efforts had
been unavailing, both upon the part of the Territory and the Indian agent in
charge. Soon after my appointment I succeeded in moving the entire tribe
upon allotted lands, locating them near some of their old fields, at the Kick-
apoo Springs. These fields they proceeded to reclaim and to fence, and plant
in com and other crops. My work, during June and July, consisted largelv in
locating the allotments, many of the corners having been removed or destroy eci by
fire. In August haying began, and almost every able-bodied Indian laborea faith-
fully making hay with which to winter their stock, and for sale, one individual
Indian having made and sold more than six hundred bales, which brought an aver-
age price of 17} cents per bale. In making and marketing of this hay the habit of
labor was encouraged, since which time there has been a marked improvement in
their disposition to perform various kinds of labor. In September and November,
1896, many families were moved on their individual allotments, and up to the pres-
ent time 40 of the 153 Kicking Kickapoos have located upon or have leased their
individual lands. Owing to the wild, stubborn, and uncommunicative nature of these
Indians and their superstitions, leasing their lands, as well as locating them, is
attended with many difficulties and requires a great amount of labor. The Indians,
who have gone upon their individual lands, have made considerable progress in the
way of fencing and breaking lands and making other nece.«bary improvements pre-
paratory to making a crop the present season. It should be observed that most all
of the improved places, which prior to allotment belonged to the Kicking Kickapoos,
were allotted to the so-called Progressive Kickapoos.
A considerable majority of the tribe are now willing to lease their lands, and with
the opening of the planting season nearly all heads of families who have teams and
implements, or who can be provided with them, will go upon either their own allot-
ments or that of some member of the family, and the balance of the land can be
leased.
Many members who formerly viciously opposed schools are now in favor of educa-
tion, while a minority are strongly opposea to schools and look upon the school as
the medium through which they, as Indians, will be exterminated. Six months ago
only one Indian wore citizens' clothes, and at this time fully one-fourth of the tribe
have discarded the blanket, and three-fourths of them would wear citizens* clothes
if the Government would provide them. Since last April many Kickapoos have
learned to speak English to such an extent that they can readily make tnem Helves
understood, who prior to that time had spoke no English. The entire tribe are
rapidly acquiring the English language, ana the tendency toward the hnhit of labor
is encouraged*
Martin J. Bentlky.
•or -EBE MxaacMSf
^m jtee mnnniL 7,, " 93§lW
rxiiOBC ^ims "^iifian w^gaatL CS in isJL \£ 'Sxr j&ipv^ aooomiL
cRTtrr. fn. iiiixitE zissa iiut urn^ mtrnims m gscsws xnc joK. mfl maB I
JEjcJBCZF' ^.
gg ^ MI'S 5il*- U I^ifWiflf^
XjfzzsD. frw**Tg' liactfu^ tnuzjijUL
iimntitmnrufr if JftStm. Jfar%. WaAiupmu. Zl C.
Irifianif' m^in. 'aier lilt'jcnt^rfr m vscxvnmr^ iiKminirtfL i^r .?>atthn.iL u: inn luf-vnip
* !niiin«t*!ic nn»r7i5«i«:. ITiitfl* ■» au-Tr ispa y^rnMi» jr "Si* iLiius^fin ^i»t voi©
tXL jmt:-^r>?; n: uL nut -zn^a jt muLA mirn: in T^vuirr muv ^^auiuupr ^TMcwy
wvex, z. Jt muR iniiiiinm]: HimL -ffvor "aiK J AiinuL iasot bl ixmr^mmr cuiignBHg
cvsi 'UHr f^tr- 'i'j>* ir JLz XniLLHT^ Sm:.F3i!ib. ml I^ imiihh ^amwi^a: jjifinn. viii- rnTMir
aXi^ lli'jiiu7»ui jmunai|s^ j«sttci:j^ But jcl nftfitfiwr. it. i«nip jo. imtilUcRiin muc verr
eiixin«a£ii: nigryryair.. m l ±s>iuiis ufiour juol Ss: x wiliru^ is* wuhl iir tL -par
«s? ' IF fjl vv v^K^ i^i. imeniicn. at xui «ii9Hr>vazisD: ^uoit ill ';3it d^iauiir
jnry.Mt u: cnrt: uijL iine-;r»r«fr:. I im iuLt^ wb' 'Hiiiiff iL JKiiif manzdcx i»
XwtjtJUJLLWI IV ?Z
LJcaD/ frv^w^ ZjFJULf TssrrrjML.
SuaanmL 'Jgol^ Jfmemuer ffL. ZJBSOL
Z\miV::^t.n*fr ir jitdim s^frart. "^tmiwupim^ X'. ^
?a: r Hi'"* lit* li'jii:*' »: Han* ;aac. virrtMbiLft n ttjit jwater iftior yiftj, if *(S^itKD-
!«• iufr V ij-'-^-ii ■'.IL fraiVi -Tiic f I an. Wf-nrt mt Mrri'^t :i: X" rtnevTHft. :r btj
ir»^i*!- ii:r. :: u: : :-i <i '.: vi.i'-!i ift ixift "•miturift ^Tumi:***: iKrr'i'jw- jr ir^uvr 1F1.7'* in-
JLiJiT. r-^tJi^ii.iiul;.
3090 AF7AIB8 OW THE AOEXlCAjr KICKAPOO IKDIASS.
Exhibit Xa 44 [Bentley].
Indian AllotmenU Noif, 71, 72, and 7S.
FASM LCAAE.
Iiidfmtnre of leaiie made and entered into this tbe twentj-ttird daj c^ Septem-
ber, 1^j2, X, D^ by and between Martin J. Bentley, legal ini^rdian of Nahah-
cbe thot of Hhawnee, Okiaboma, and Levi J. Pipber, of Harrah, Oklahoma,
partjr of the second part.
Now thin iodentore witneflMieth: Tlmt the WB^A party of the first part, for
and in consideration of the sum of one dollar paid him by the said party of
the iiecond {rtirt, receipt of which is hereby acknowled^ered, and In consideration
of the renta to be paid as hereinafter specified, and of the coTenants, stipnla-
ticma, and crmditionii hereinafter coatained and hereby aj^reed to be paid, kept,
and performerl by the wM. party of the second part, his execatr^rs, adminis-
trators, and assitois, hereby lets and leases to the said party of the second part,
his exernitors, admfnlMtrators, and assigns; the following described tract of
land, to wit : The northwest quarter and the west half of the northeast quarter
of section twenty-four (24), township twelve (12), range one (1) east, in the
cotmty of Oklahoma, in the Territory of Oklahoma, containing two hundred and
lorty (240) acres, more or less, for the full term of five (5) years from Jan-
oary liit, 1IJ03, for farming purposes, with the right to use and occupy said
land and premises herein leased for said period.
In consideration of which the party of the second part hereby agrees and
binds himself, his executors, administrators, and assigns, and subleases, to pay
or caune to be paid to the party of the first part, at the First National Bank,
of Oklahoma City, the sum of two hundred and seventy-seven (277) dollars
per annum, the same being at tlie estimated rate of two and 0^54) dollars per
acre, for the one himdred and ele\'en (111) acres now in cultivation on said
tract, to l>e jiold annually on the 1st day of July. And the said party of the
second iiart further covenants and agrees that he will break up and clear and
put In cultivation enough additional land to make the total cultivated area on
the afor#*sald tract, at the expiration of this lease, not less than two hundred
(20f>) acH's; and that for the last and fifth year of this lease he will pay the
sum of two and 0J50 ($2.50) dollars per acre for the additional eighty-nine (80)
acr<fs aforesaid; and that during the continuance of this lease he will cultivate
and improve said land in good and husband-like manner; and If at any time any
portion of the lease money should be due and unjiaid, that portion uni)aid shall
be a Hen on the crop grown on said land as security for the payments of rents.
This indenture and lease shall \ie valid and binding only after having the
approval of the probate judge of the county of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Territory,
ln>w.Tll)e<l thereon.
\\\ wirni'ss whereof parties of the first and second part have hereunto set
their 1 aiuls and seals this the day and year first above written.
M. J. Hentley,
L. J. PlPHEB.
In consideration of the letting of the premises descrll>ed In the foregoing
binds hlmw?lf, his executors, administrators, and assigns, and subleases, to pay
the receipt wh«?reof Is hereby acknowledged, we the undersigned, J. O. Pipher
and M. U. I>ee, in the county of Oklahoma, Territory of Oklahoma, hereby
become sureties for the punctual iiayment of all the rents and the i)erform-
ances of all the covenants and agreements In the above Indenture of lease to
l>e 1)8 id and r>^'rforniod by I.evl J. IMpher, the party of the second part named
therein; and If any default shall l>e made therein, we do hereby promise and
agree to pay on dt^niand unto the aforesaid party of the first part such sum or
hums of money as will be suiflclent to make up such deficiency and fully sat-
isfy all the conditions, covenants, and agreements contained In said Indenture
of l«ise, without refpilrlng any notice of nonf>ayment or proof of demand being
made; and we do hereby bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, and administra-
tors, jointly and severally and firmly by these prestMits.
8igned and sealed this 28th day of September, 1902.
J. O. Pipher,
M. R. IJCE.
VERIFICATION OF SIRETIFS.
^ r y OK Okijihoma, County of Oklahoma:
J laretles to the foregoing Indenture of lease, being duly sworn and ex-
tir Joe, Btate that they signed the foregoing obligation as sureties for
AFFAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2091
the leases under the annexed lease, and that they and each of them respectively
own and possess property over and above all debts, liabilities, and legal ex-
emptions of the value, worth, and sum placed opposite their names.
M. R. Lee $5,000
J. O. Pipher 5,000
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 28th day of September, 1902.
[SEAL.] J. J. Beall, Notary Public,
My conmiission expires June 11, 1906.
Terbitory of Oklahoma, Oklahoma County:
In the probate court.
This lease having been presented to the probate Judge of said county for his
approval on the 28th day of September, 1902, the Judge not being satisfied
with the price offered for said lease of land, and continued the hearing for the
purpose of obtaining evidence as to value; and afterwards, to wit, on the
7th day of November the lessee submitted affidavits of three disinterested
parties as to the price agreed to be paid as being fair and reasonable, and in
their opinion they believed it was to the interest of the minor that the lease be
made, the probate Judge in open court, after carefully considering said appli-
cation for lease and the evidence submitted is satisfied the lease is to the in-
terest of the minor, and that the same should be allowed and approved.
It is therefore considered, ordered, and adjudged by the court that said lease
be in all things approved, allowed, and confirmed.
This 10th day of November, A. D. 1902.
[SEAL.] J. P. Allen, Probate Judge.
Tebbitoby of Oklahoma, Oklahoma County, ss:
The Territory of Oklahoma to all whom it may concern, and especially to
Martin J. Bentley, greeting:
Know ye that whereas application has been made to the probate court of said
county for the appointment of a guardian to Nah ah che that, Indian, aged 9
years, minor heir of Wah ke nah qua mo quah, deceased, and it appearing to
the court that It is necessary to appoint a guardian to said Nah ah che that,
Indian child, of the Mexican Kickapoo tribe of Indians, said minor Is known in
the English language as Joseph Johnson, and the said Martin J. Bentley, having
been approved for said trust by the court, and having given bond as required by
law, which has been approved, filed, and recorded in said court :
Now, therefore, trusting In your care and fidelity, we have appointed, and do
by these presents appoint you, the said Martin J. Bentley, as such guardian,
hereby authorizing and emix)wering you to take and to have the custody of
said minor and the care of his education and the care and management of his
estate until he arrive at the age of 21 years, or until you shall be discharged
according to law.
And requiring you to make a true inventory of all the estate, real and per-
sonal, of the said ward that shall come to your possession of knowledge, and
to return the same into the probate court within three months from the date
of these letters, or at any other time the court shall direct, to dispose of and
manage all such estate according to law and for the best interest of the ward,
and faithfully to discharge your trust in relation thereto, and also when
required, in relation to the care, custody, and education of the ward, to render
an account on oath of the property, real and personal, of the said ward in your
hands and all proceeds and Interests derived therefrom, and of the management
and disposition of the same, within one year after your appointment, and annu-
ally thereafter, and at such other times as the proper court shall direct, and at
the expiration of your trust to settle your account with the probate court, or
with the ward, If he shall be of full age, or his legal representatives, and to pay
over and deliver all the property, real and personal, remaining In your hands
or due from you on such settlement to the person lawfully entitled thereto.
In testimony whereof we have caused the seal of our said probate court to
be hereunto affixed.
Witness: J. P. Allen, judge of our said court, at Oklahoma City, In said
county, this 11th day of December, A. D. 1901.
[seal.] J. P. Allen, ProWlc Jvv^^v.
2092 AFFAIBS OF THE BCEXIGAN KICKAPOO INDIAKS.
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma, Oklahoma County, as:
I, Martin J. Bentley, do solemnly swear that I will discharge, all and singu-
lar, the duties of guardian of the person and estate of the above-named Nah ah
Che that, Indian (Joseph Johnson), according to law and to the best of my
abUity.
Mabtin J. Bentlet.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 11th day of December, A. D. 1901.
J. P. Allen, Probate Judge.
clebk's cebtifigate.
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma, Oklahoma County , 88 :
I, E. M. Hurry, clerk of the probate court in and for said county and Ter-
ritory aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true, correct,
and complete copy of letters of guardianship and the copy of lease and order
approving the lease, In the matter of the guardianship of Na-ah-che-thot, a
minor, of the case therein entitled, as the same appears of record in my office.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of
said court at Oklahoma City, In said county, this, the 6th day of November,
A. D. 1905.
[SEAL.] E. M. HUBBT,
Clerk of Probate Court.
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma, Oklahoma County, 88:
In the district court in and for said county.
I, B. D. Shear, clerk of said court, do hereby certify that I have examined
the records of said court and find the following cases are pending and un-
disposed of, wherein li. C. Grimes is a party thereto, to wit :
Case 4584. L. G. Pipher v, L. C. Grimes, filed June 13, 1904 ; action brought
for replevin of wheat ; Na-ah-che-thot, by M. J. Bentley, guardian, filed petition
of intervention on November 18, 1904.
Case 4674. Nah-ah-che-thot, a minor, by Bentley, his guardian, i\ L. C.
Grimes and H. T. Douglas; suit filed August 30, 1904; cause of action,
ejectment
Case 5141. L. J. Pipher v, Lewis C. Grimes, Lewis C. Grimes, Jr., Frank
Curry, and Roe Curry. Suit brought April 10, 1905. Cause of action, in-
junction.
L. J. Pipher v, L. C. Grimes and Mrs. L. C. (i rimes. On appeal from probate
court to this court, wherein defendants . are api)ellants. This cause not yet
on our dockets because of failure to pay necessary costs. Suit brought for
IK>ssession of premises; lower court judgment was for plaintiff; received here
April 12, 1905.
Witness my hand and the seal of said court this 8th day of November, 1905.
[SEAL.] B. D. Sheab, Clerk,
By Will H. Clabk, Deputy.
EiXHiBrr No. 45. — f Bentley 1.
Depabtment ok the Intebiob,
United States Indian Sebvice.
TTnited States Indian Tbainino School,
Shawnvc, Okla,, August JO, 190S.
The Commissioner ok Indian Akkairs,
Wnshington, I). C.
Sir: Uoferrinj: to your letter (Ijind 4(;478-19a3) of August 3, lOaS. with
which you transniltt«'<l a letter from .1. H. Everest, of Oklahonm City, Okla., of
July 21i. IIXKJ, in whkli he eallH your attention to two leaws made by William T.
Hales, lejral jxuardlan of re-ah-ehe-thot and Ma-clie-ka-iK)t, minor heirs of
Ke-ho-ko-<|iiah. (ltH'eas<'«l Mexl<an Kickapoo Indian, for the W. i of the SW. \
and the E. * of the SW. ]. comi)rlsiiiK the SW. i of sec. 18, T. 12 X.,
U. 1 K., I have the honor to report that Mr. Everest mlsrepresent«Hl the matter
of the contest over these leaK€»s and he pnardianship of he said minor heirs,
in that Mr. Everest states that "your Ofhce and the Secretary's office were In
ignorance of the fact that at the time these leases were submitted and approved
APPAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2098
there was pending in the district court of Oklahoma County, Okla., with respect
to this land, the point at issue being whether W. T. Hales was the legal
guardian of these Indians or whether one Robert Galbreath, appointed by the
probate court of Oklahoma County, Okla., was the legal guardina of these
minors."
This was not the point at issue in the trial referred to. Mr. Pipher, who
was desirous, it seems, of leasing this land, secured the appointment of Mr.
Galbreath as legal guardian over the said minors, and Mr. Galbreath, as such
guardian, leased the allotments in question to the said Pipher, Mr. Pipher being
all of the while fully advised of the law as to the leasing of these allotments, I
having advised him personally that no lease on Indian lands could be made
legal except by the approval of the Secretary of the Interior. The contest in
the court was whether the leases made by Mr. Galbreath, through the probate
court, as guardian of said minors, to Mr. Pipher were legal without the approval
of the Secretary of the Interior. Contrary to the statement of Mr. Everest, to
the eflPect that "Mr. Pipher's lease was not submitted to the agent when
received and approved by the probate court, for the reason that Mr. Thackery
informed Mr. Pipher that the approval of the Department was not necessary to
leases made by the guardian of minor Indians where the leases were made under
the direction of the probate court and confirmed by the court," I beg to state
that I never advised Mr. Pipher or anyone else, as stated by Mr. Everest. Mr.
Pipher occupied and used this land during the year 1902, and never paid any
consideration whatever for the use of the land during that year, either to the
Indians direct or to this office, and was told last fall by Mr. Cox, leasing clerk,
that he could make leases on the land in question for the year 1903 if he would
pay for the year 1902, which he refnsed to do, and the land, therefore, was
leased to Mr. Grimes. It was probably for this reason that he attempted to
make the probate court lease referred to above. At the time this conversation
occurred between Mr. Cox and Mr. Pipher the latter claimed that he had paid
Martin J. Bentley for the use of the land for the year 1902, but refused to state
how much he had paid Mr. Bentley.
The case pending before the district court, as referred to in the letter of
Mr. Everest, was decided on last Friday, the judge ruling that the leases of
Mr. Pipher were illegal and without force. I send you herewith certified copy
of the probate court proceedings with reference to the guardianship of Mr.
Hales over these two minors referred to above, the case having been contested
May 20, 1903, by Mr. Bentley and other parties Interested in behalf- of Mr.
Pipher.
I also transmit herewith a letter of Martin J. Bentley, dated at Hot Springs,
Ark., December 4, 1902, and written to Mr. Grimes, In which Mr. Bentley
speaks of the matter of the leasing of these allotments. I transmit also a
letter from J. H. Everest, dated at Oklahoma City, Okla., June 23, 1903, in
which Mr. Everest states, " In reply I beg to call your attention to the fact
that the validity of the leases to Mr. Pipher is now pending in the United
States district court of Oklahoma County, etc.," which is somewhat at variance
with the statement in his letter to your office, in which he states that the point
at issue was whether W. T. Hales or Mr. Galbreath was the legal guardian
of the said minors. With reference to J. H. Everest, I beg to refer to your
letter (Land, 19013—1903) dated April 7, 1903, which refers to the contest
by Manuel Mills (colored) against the allotment of Waw-paw-naw-ke-she-no-
qua, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 81. Mr. Everest was attorney for Mr.
Mills in this case, and there can be no doubt whatever but that all of the evi-
dence in the case as presented by Everest was false and that the allotment in
question is legal, being the first allotment made to the Kickaiwos of Oklahoma
by Moses Neal, the then alloting agent.
This office has made several Indian leases to Mr. Pipher, and it is our in-
tention to permit him to retain the same so long as his agreements are
properly complied with, but in this particular case he is in the wrong, and if
he has made the statement claimed to have been made by him by Mr. Everest
he did so knowing it to be false. The fact that he did not get the lease of
the land in question is entirely his own fault, which is traceable to his refusal
to comply with my request that he pay for the use of this land during the
year 1902. When requested to do this Mr. Pipher attempted to make his lease
legal by securing the appointment of Mr. Galbreath as guardian, and then
making the probate court leases referred to above.
Very respectfully,
Supermtendent and Special Di^buT^^.uQ ksje?«vX*
3094 AFFAIBS OF THE MBXIGAN KIGKAPOO INDIAN8.
[Exhibit A.]
[Detached from affldaTit of L. C. Grimes.]
Depabtmeitt of the Intebiob,
United States Indian Sebvice,
United States Indian Agenct,
Shawnee, Okla., May 9, 1905.
Mr. L. C. Grimes, Harrah, Oklct,
Sib: I ana In receipt of a letter from Hon. Horace Speed, United States
attorney, as follows :
Depabtment of Justice,
Office of the United States Attobney,
DiSTBicT of Oklahoma,
Guthrie, AprU U, 1905.
Frank A. Thackeby, Esq.,
Superintendent and Special Dishuraing Agent,
Shawnee, Okla.
Deab Sib: With reference to the lease of Indian land to Pipher and Grimes,
some memoranda have recently come into my possession which makes me very
seriously question whether the Government should assist Grimes any further
In getting the land or taking the land from Pipher. The suggestion that Grimes
and his brother are old-time criminals, and that his brother is now a fugitive
from justice, having years ago killed a man in the Chickasaw country before
old Oklahoma opened ; that L. C. Grimes, who has the lease, Is a man with
a long series of crimes in his record, and fhat comparatively recently, in Novem-
ber, 1904, at Harrah, on the night of the election, he cut to pieces with a
knife a barber. Intending to kill him, and that since that time in 1905, at Harrah,
he also cut with a knife one Charles OfFut.
The claim Is that Grimes took and raised the children of his outlaw brother,
and that they have become outlaws, or men of violent lives, and that he has
around him a set of men who are men of violence, and some of them, at least, are
horse theives, when occasion presents itself. Among these are mentioned Dude
Grimes, who is said to have often drawn his knife on people at and around
Harrah who were not pleasing to him, and Tack Grimes, who has had similar
habits and was with L. C. Grimes in cutting the barber above named;
Charlea Herron, a tough character, who drew his knife on Rob Ray about a
year ago at Harrah, at a dance given at a section man's house ; Curry,
who drew his knife on old man Pipher, the lessee, on the lessee's land about
the early part of this March, and Jack Keppler,*al80 a tough.
The claim Is that there are ten or fifteen more of these people having L. O.
Grimes as their head center, and that they make life down there unsafe to
decent, law-abiding people, and that they are assisted by L. C. Grimes to obtain
leases of Indian land for his benefit, and that it does not comport with good
government or good citizenship there to continue to lease lands to them.
I do not know anything about the facts, and I would thank you to give me
such information as you can in regard to these people, and their quality and
conduct. If they are of the class described, it seems to me in the interest
of peace their leases should be canceled, or if not canceled, there should be
no further leases given to them or their friends after the present leases expire.
It Is said that some years ago Grimes had leases which were canceled by the
Department after full investigation by one of its own officers, and that the can-
cellation was upon the grounds above indicated. If that is true, then the leas-
ing thereafter must have been through forgetfulness of that investigation.
Please let me have what information you can, and oblige,
Very respectfully,
Hobace Speed,
United States Attorney,
If the statements contained therein are true, it Is very evident that you should
not be permitted to longer reside upon Indian land. It is my intention to
carefully investigate the stnteuionts contained therein, and I will be pleased
to receive from you such statements or proof with reference to these charges
as yon may care to offer, in writing.
Very respectfully, Fbank A. Thackeby,
BuperinUendetU and Special Disbursing Agmit.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN EJGKAPOO INDIANS. 2095
DKPABTlfENT OF THE INTERIOB,
United States Indian Sebviob,
United States Indian Agency,
Shatonee, Okla,, June 26, 1905.
Hon. Horace Speed,
United States Attorney, Guthrie, Okla.
Sib : I have the hono» to refer to your letter of April 14, 1005, with reference
to the leases on Indian land to Mr. L. J. Pipher and L. G. Grimes, in which
you refer especially to the character of L. C. Grimes.
On May 9, 1905, I addressed a letter to Mr. Grimes at Harrah, as follows :
Mr. L. O. GsiifES, Harrah, Okla.
Sib: I am in receipt of a letter from Hon. Horace Speed, United States
attorney, as follows :
(Here I quoted him your letter.)
* * « « # « «
If the statements contained therein are true, it Is very evident that you should
not be permitted to longer reside upon Indian land. It Is my intention to care-
fully investigate the statements contained therein, and I will be pleased to
receive from you such statements or proof with reference to these charges as
you may care to offer In writing.
Very respectfully, Frank A. Thackeby,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
I Inclose herewith all the correspondence I have received with reference to
the character of Mr. Grimes and his brother.
In your letter you ask me to give you such Information as I can In regard
to these people and their quality and conduct. I am fully convinced that the
source of your information with reference to the character of Mr. Grimes and
his brother and family are unreliable.
It is true that the matter of these leases was investigated about the year
1900 by one E. B. Reynolds, a special agent of the Indian Office at Washington,
D. O., at which time Martin J. Bentley was the acting Indian agent In charge
of the Kickapoo Indians. I was advised by the honorable Commissioner of
Indian Affairs that Mr. Reynolds recommended in his report the approval of
Mr. Grimes's leases for one year only, and prior to the expiration of these
leases of Mr. Grimes I assumed charge of the work at this agency. This lease
trouble was one of the first to be called to my attention after taking charge of
the work. I made a very careful investigation of the whole case, and asked
that the matter have the further attention of a special agent or inspector of the
Department. Accordingly, Mr. Eugene McComas, a special agent of the Interior
Department, was detailed to Investigate and report upon the matter, and upon
the strength of his report Mr. Grimes was permitted to renew his leases.
I concurred in the report of Special Agent McComas, principally for the rea-
son that while Mr. Bentley was acting as agent he drew, or caused to be
drawn up in his office, leases in favor of said L. O. Grimes for terms of years
varying from one to five years, the consideration of said leases being, for the
most part, improvements, such as building of fences, houses, and the like, and
the grubbing and breaking up of a considerable number of acres of raw land,
and that in approving said leases where they contained a three or five year
improvement contract, for only one year. It worked a serious and unfair hard-
ship upon Mr. Grimes, in that he could not possibly do the work and improve-
ments named in the leases without a great expense to himself if he was to be
permitted to use the land only one year.
With reference to his character, I found at that time that he lacked a con-
siderable of being an ideal man in that respect. However, I was then and I
am now of the opinion that he is equal to or better than the average citizen
of this Territory, both with reference to character and business standing.
With reference to the business relations of Mr. Grimes with this office, I would
state that his lease money or other payments are promptly attended to, though
I have experienced some little difficulty in having the improvement contracts
of his leases complied with. However, when they have b^n called to his at-
tention he has always compiled with the directions of this office.
I see no reason why a decision with reference to whether Mr. Grimes or
Mr. Pipher should be permitted to occupy certain of these Indian lands should
not be reached without further delay.
2096 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Plpher holds Illegal leases on part of the land made through the probate
court of Oklahoma County by Martin J. Bentley, the same not having the ap-
proval of the Secretary of the Interior, while Mr. Grimes has fully compiled
with the requirements of the Department. This case has been delayed in the
courts from time to time for the past three years, and It seems at present that
the case is being delayed in order to permit Mr. Pipher to harvest the crops
from the land in question, though this office has and still continues to require
Mr. Grimes to pay the rental money due the Indians under his leases.
Very respectfully,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
^-.^ . . BxHiBFT No. 46 [Goode].
TlBBITOBT OF OKLAHOMA,
County of Oklahoma:
Lewis O. Grimes, of lawful age, after being duly sworn, upon his oath says
that he Is the person who has made application for lease of certain Indian
lands in and around Harrah, Okla., and who has heretofore, and now is, the
holder of leases to the same tracts. That upon the day of , 1905,
affiant received from Mr. Frank Thackery a letter, which is hereto attached
and marked "Exhibit A" (see Exhibit O), and made a part hereof; that after
reading same affiant at once prepared to meet the insinuations therein made;
that to do so he prepared a petition which in terms amounted to indorsing
him as a man of respectable character and standing in the community in
which he lived at that time — ^that is, Harrah, Okla.; that said petition was
circulated among the residents of Harrah and among those living in and
about the town, and that the same was almost unanimously signed by all the
people living In Harrah and aroimd about the town; that to supplement said
petition said affiant procured letters from bankers and business men of Okla-
homa City, the county seat of the county in which affiant lives, which letters
were for the purpose of corroborating the statements made by the petitioners
who signed the petition hereinbefore mentioned; and all of said letters and
said petition was by affiant forwarded to Mr. Thackery by mail. And that to
further support his said petition and letter hereinbefore referred to, this affiant
referred the letter containing the charges against him to his lodge at Harrnh,
Okla.; the matter was taken up by his lodge and the lodge unanimously in-
dorsed him, and passed a resolution demanding of the persons who wrote the let-
ter hereinbefore referred to as ** Exhibit A" the names of the persons who made
the charges, and the instrmnent of writing signed by thom, and demanding
proof of the charges; which resolution and action of the lodge was forwarded
to Mr. Thackery. Said lodge has since made demand on Mr. Thackery for the
information first asked for or a return of all the papers sent to him. After
all these papers had been forwarded to Mr. Thackery the affiant heard nothlnj:
further regarding the same, and knows nothing now of what became of all
the materials furnished by him and sent to Mr. Thackery ; but relying upon the
belief that the Information furnished was sufficient refutation of all the charires
made, and that same was entirely and wholly satisfactory to Mr. Thackery and
the Department which he represents, affiant did nothing more In the matter
until Friday, the 3d day of November, 1905, when Mr. Thackery reported to
affiant that he had received a letter from the Interior Department m which
he received information that Mr. James B. Jenkins, special agent of the De-
partment, had reported to the I>epartment of the Interior that affiant was not
a fit and proper person to hold the leases to Indian lands. Affiant thereupon
came to Oklahoma City and secured letters from the business men and county
officials and such other persons as had known him for ten or fiftwn years. In
which they each one testify to his character and standing and reputation In the
commimity in which he has lived during all the years since this country was
opened and settled. These letters are hereto attached and made a part of this
affidavit
Affiant further says that one Martin J. Bentley — long ago discredited by
the Interior Department — ^and who some years ago had charge of the Kiokapoo
Indian tribe in Oklahoma, as their representative, has for several years past
flS •flu- tin* flBiid
BwflifTf' itii£ ejiprrmafi tinr 4*
i» 2h«:. TtaBl
t iiBPwrL '!Qas «mid «
)inni{dir mix jtzi Ibt nmfliKtt 'Buwi itf 'i
HBtUJlHD'T' tElril! IS tllf- VBH* tJEKr ■tt&'dHffl
flue juHcii^ uf jKfiHft liensinlMlun- Jtiheaftf il. ttr. TfjiiiiBr iutf teim^ tk*
4iun» -iriii^ ert* 3Ji««r iienfixiip it *&* Oisctis mur: itT 'flis mmnr iniA
in- BL ygjiftirr errh^aiff£ imfl auaftf- a jnn InnclL find ImF A» teumflit
mil n- fvniir t^rmL i#f:^H3i7 ^^h- -vaasaxm tf 'fli» ttSiiint l^iiip urnii: l:ii>' hnilL
TkiuL -vrnt liR- -eBLfsyftioL of ttr. BenftaF imfl Mz. PipkHr bdC 'fimir ImnifffliBir
APMK!itrc!» BuC iTJBiite "i^jicn- » III' imcr -vrln' jf fi*!niii.hn>«€ v-rx tin- seuenil
sfl^nmoin. ft '^ut Bfium: lie lAiur c ^iBbwiAAf:. ^e^fF^miiOiiic:. mill Ikuimcmllr
TBloiiik' CTjassL flf 'Clkiltdifinti: 'Omzic? ins idar iPonHC «j -iiiicr: iiir TEgnnmiiHk
iL lI -:ii*f«* -^niirfi* » ffi«»d.
leufefC 11 4Hf»- rjii:: if*- iip^>«r im: t 4«Rifl inr >»iif- lb bxt- piffQi- %£ Infiiac Imdl fla
tkui '-innnr: vmI n-i^oiCHfC ii iireui: liin. imi! flfm* lun evx?- fnnc 'fliOEi:. "Oaili
sfiuni: iftiinnrMf. tiiic: «.iC l&esfH?- mifl «ejfl nufkBr intenfl v< aujj tlRur '
imt es^nnniL if jtiMKhiK:. ixufl '^aa. 'Qmef mat aflcmcttifl unfl jnmijmC ^
fiiiiup If! tlH^ "imipt- tii»?- BTifr Afiinp buB 3vv^ 'tanr VfOf^r iweiiiiM' -of 'Qkt j
ttiE! -liii^ tiHiim: iiuf cmmfmafl -pveB?- tifeq;* ttaKt thcr te«e Tiftifm is
mif iin«niCit Ti 'ftpii^ -p^€?7 flEB9 TilisBL Is IJlKr mncti unfll n finbl luOgnitag
tiMr»fiil Tmn -iiMr morviiH: nun a! -Sue TBEatenju 3n iisr ammSi tf Jhmi:- 'flAi
^4sc: iituifofC 6i*va l 6*^ ih^iol -vilii^ Iniifli *flas ft fmsrOiBn JogminiBfl )^ 4be
jcuutrE*: '/iixir: ijitf ut jni^'sr ii- jsuve- risr Infiimi IniflE imfi tkmt 3H' Dnme tt
-^ifr rii':ct:7*i«i luCiiix JLH&f h innfC TOii^nF -an: flBi»r JE maflcr mil agfggtpqrf If
'^ic- Imernir I«^it:-3iiein. Tiiic iJ:niiiTi|di tdfims iov loiifl i'Buflariiy iiir Tentifl
»Hii-''PM> ii)«:rL l1* Zii&fn. iioifif im£ imf '.nnCicnutifl n tCL 'tbt TifOiunziiemF fif iu»
ieuHMf lit iiitt i»>»L tnmoKilHft n jirj Icspf mos iif mmKsr if. icx[iru>?«.
iixrp>r flimif \£ mini'?' m *Mnr ir nmr: mifi iov Ikhse aaLriuwuC vat iob-
ijKmi»<«*ff 1^ w.it iii:rTH» imt ^riieir K«u'!irrH» inr mvn 'I^oxl 't!ur» yaem
jwr .3>i:fr. Tiiir. 'w 'nn^f n.iH!fC in m-Jt hmt tii» trbbt vpt TOHmuiiiiiir
tf "ti** 'T.Tii*- \f tZ.^'M. v'Ki'ri cntj* Hint r'lviier in:r'«i»C imC j§ iuir^'wu-
jup r.iit iit»v iiiif j#i»»«H»*«»:na imt wnnriL rtf Tuh: Bfiiinr ii**!i«*vs niiC Fijilwr
ti i#t iii^'»*"*!ic laic zixiz t J» r»?"\*"B?i' ^fimuexn liir rin- tLIth- \f -tith
cnijff viii'Ji lit uuf iiHT -m*r^ if t pn-^* oneirunL -rlictiiHr 1* v't i*- uliW-
n rvn'-tr 'lit "Lint tuirifli? !•• mr. ifliiai iidlifp^er -tSu:: i: if -jh- fiiTT- rf
•Silt 5i»' tiriuiHJin vjn niuAt luew- j«i!W» -n. iiiiL izufl friii ^iLriontfec ii- iiin.
XL «imit I niii^. T»»ni'-**?i:Tt»t BL^vrnierc ii! «:iC irtipBr^r. tft. jinrrt*!!: nm unt njiiia-
iiif iwt»» T ii .It r.iii *•»* -niirr ii» 3if»KH»54<Hii]X; it aeiC iunfl jf mr ^miin^fi.
lt*fli*^*:ur 'ui ' "• vuf zit". fiirr t^ tiit &Trtu*nmiBiff "» jnn»?!i ^wy il iiif -ynmms^
fiiui iif *;s.u»*- i.flji.ir ii\i\ *-A:.i»A TDiiiL tiifr riiiwC fians fiiicrj?!: imim??'* irfh'* rf
OciiiJi.niu r*!-^-!!*? ijit iHK.*^ Jim. "n- iHKifir iunL. TT^iei jiim«ii£ rf T'e^i^^ii^
tiu- ii*i»:;«r.i:ii':t viii'!i lit -:iii»uznr irut «::ir 'aiixlis i* » -einr^'wf -ni tiit flmrrifs
KTtiini*-: miKe'T't nj vrrinif iiit j»!rtHr ii»r»!n- itrth»di»ft lait iiJi.r£«C *'IaiiTiii:
Jl * tail mii lit" 't? ti: llv 'imHr a4i£«st tim- nffimn H' Bnimin iuf iaif«¥<«' m 'ds-
£.ffiirn: fiiru^r fm^m -sic:! iit -wnet juilimutifl ttaet Ks. Jeium& TumfC f%:Ei?!»
rnQfeTiir viit n i^it iieipii«u£iii«u£ jDai:liip ig) "fitt jitiaa if 2nfiiiix jtfiiift imfl
JiKii&eini.lT Lfiii'-utf remrC ins i* ^KjatmAf agv tioa aitknm^ in- ^whs aS
2098 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIOEAPOO IKDIAK8.
never called upon him, neither did he request hi writing any statement or
answer to any of the charges that had been presented by his enemies here-
inbefore referred to. Affiant states further that he was told by his neighbors
and other persons in whom he has confidence that said Jenkins went with
Mr. Plpher and went to Pipher's hoase and rode around over the country
with him and saw and talked to Just such people as Mr. Pipher took him to.
Affiant further says that if Mr. Jenkins had made a fair and full investigation
that he would have found all the statements made by the business men of
Oklahoma City in the letters hereto attached to be absolutely true, but that
instead he accepted only the evidence and statements of affiant's enemies and
persons whom affiant has no confidence in at all, whose character affiant be-
lieves to be bad and affiant believes would stop at nothing to do him personal
injury.
That if said affiant had the time he could obtain hundreds of letters in-
dorsing him as strongly as those that are attached hereto and made a part
hereof, that he could not only get letters from leading business men of this
county, but of the leading business men of the Territory and Territorial officers
indorsing him as strongly as he has been indorsed in the letters hereto attached.
L. O. GaiifES.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 6th day of November, 1905.
[SEAL.] B. A. Pakman, Notary Publio,
My commission expires August 24, 1908.
Exhibit No. 47 [Goode].
Tebbitobt of OKLAHOif a, Coutity of Oklahoma, 8$:
Personally appeared before me, the imdersigned authority, Lewis 0. Grimes,
of lawful age, who, being first duly sworn upon his oath, doposes and states
that he is the lessee for the allotments of Ah ten y teck allottee No. 74 ; Pah
pah thah peah, allottee No. 64 ; Maw ke puck e thee, allottee No. GG ; Wah
theck ko na hah, allottee No. 67; Wah pah che qua quah, allottee No. 70;
Ke ah ho ko quah (by her heirs), allottee No. .32; Pe ah che that, allottee No.
83 (by his legal guardian) ; Robert J. Navarr, citizen Pottawatomie, allottee
No. 1217 (by his natural guardian) ; Nah ah che thot, allottee No. 72 (by his
natural guardian) ; Wah pe nah qua no quah, allottee No. 71 (by her heirs) ;
that for all of the aforesaid leases of 80 acres each affiant has a legally ap-
proved lease ; that affiant cultivated and used the allotment of Peck ke ah peah,
Mexican Klckapoo, allottee No. 65, during the year 1905; that affiant had no
approved lease on said allotment last above-named during the said year 1905, but
that affiant did have an approved lease on said land for several years prior to the
year 1005 : that affiant paid to the allottee In cash the sum of $50 for the use
of said allotment during the year 1905; that said payment was made in the
"Fugatte store" at Harrah, Okla. ; that said $50 was $10 more than affiant
had ever paid in any one year previously for the use of said land under an
approved lease; that affiant has cultivated and used the allotment of Pesh she
quah. allottee No. G8 (Mexican Klckapoo), for several years last past, and that
affiant has made regular payment to the acting Indian agent for the use of said
allotment ; that affiant has rei>eate<11y attempted to make a legal lease on said
allotment but failed to do so for the roa8(m that ex- Agent Martin J. Bentley,
as affiant beiioves, prevented the heirs from signing said lease to affiant; that
affiant " settled up " and divided a former business partnership that had ex-
isted between affiant and one William O. Grimes, the division being made about
two years apo; that in said division affiant was to receive the benefits from the
allotment of Ah na sha wah to or Tom Smith, Mexican Kicknpoo. allottee No.
61; that affiant has cultivated and used the allotment of said Tom Smith for
the past two years and has made the payments called for In the lease for said
land; that excepting on this one allotment there is no business connection be-
tween affiant and the said William C. Grimes of any kind whatsoever with
reference to the management or control of Indian lands; that affiant has no
control, voice, nor In any manner assists in the management of the leases of the
■aid William 0. Grimes; that affiant positively states that he has never re-
AgTif <V TBM MW%VAM KKXAPQI^ SaCHAJBS. 90S^
ILiw^iiffniir Jimrts 21. JmiiiiiK albBui ^nAJoim!}?' maemm &mi mbjA iuvnicsur >fii£ auic
<faKL iQioL jitfaniT linr {pstp fritamr aigr cQgHifiLiiLUi^ nrftoOBfiemr 3i> sui^w^r 107
<diB39»» Him iat£ Vfiem 2x0^ JiffyVraff affisui:: ^us. « ffiwiH ipc^s jet lii^ inm^ an ttte
fetillHSE
A,1tirnrr fiir^»*?r sicR* tliEt lit < Ef&Bzit • ims amt fis pat fifl}?" BiiiigiE»fl vJSi Jtl
rf Tii*^ fljjifjiifaLaLtjtmf u!f ii» j«u«^ 'jnnnrn'r.*^ il «t> Ibt ^ -nter jn^Bfimezxirnxs e3* eat-
9BCT»fi tun lain ii*- iriL &i' i**- ^jiir ii -nte- cs^iiretiaxi \t «E.ifi !ksiieFc laiirt ia»'
jiHiMWL \t Lfiiion -le iifii mr^mz ^f(ini>4ii«£ ^Pla±i «Eafl '-ntinra?3EF » tSffii te < affi-
ant liuk^ i#*4«L 'niiii}#*{ij»ffi xi' Q*mic Jiiwjsx itf ii» < Kl&&izt « < tjaa^ imfl nnm*^ in "ni»**
lan^jntL^ '.niura- def *»iidinf Mffi«i^ ;i}|%.niHi ^nun^ia- sittt^ igr Ifl^Lrtis X ^ani*?' Bxd
L- J. Pi;!!!*? liiifi JIL 3bL liBt ^i* fiHgM»«He«f Kfluon innu yuMamfimi Kt yurtniB
Sn&iux ULiig lie v^*£L vSbxaxi iaxt iui£ iii«v Hh^ n i«|:td}2r ig^irtni'^ itflifii;: xiuEl
^m: ii' liiciii.i "i:riti'-»n ti* Tii»^ ^ixnnH«»^ lufiiti U£s*?ii^ «KJfi BsirikT^. iw- laifi Tpria
urtxi'jt j^ r*»ti;-m**£ il ttdk! iv ^in- ^'^iT^niiDeii: itf 'Sdh TiirfeC fiiKSef lir en^^
SufiiKL -p-rniutr ltj ?niiifiiirn.ii:»i ur r*«"iiri:r:ii!L iif tii*^ rif:in> laiC mriiirJny uf
ISi*' ^^'TTVt^r^ itf ^iH- ZirterJir i»r*r Indirx iioifit. imC riiEt Libiar: -^^^f »".aiij#ttli«fl
•R' *?ui;mi»: iiif vvL ifV7*rf -L( 6*!'*^it ifirx iifliiLiir> ririttf itf Tii»- Ju'jt. >yw*«t uf
«LiC ji-jjOf i-iii -III* v.vrM\rrrrr iif -:ii*^ **f'!r*»n-TT iif tiwr lirL*!fiar ii iuUl*^ sncii
l«iK*«f -:i:i - i.flii:!!* 7».>>r'^ •''*!:; ^\r* "Aiv:'. ii*- iLfljiiir iiuf ii. l»iifiiii*tw- vitlwr lliuai
luiwAfC 111? li.ii It -« ':m T.»vT. t»f Hir^ii ^Jtit. iii»niii tiir**»r 7^*5112* uin jl uroar
Hitr: -:ii*«T n^irtn nk-^*: vjiiwt bC^ ijr.i^*ff ; -imrr iifliimr* jirtjHeirr liinirtr i? uuly
ttiHiu: '::ii'-**»-riii-n*!rf i»f t iuIh- *riiiL isfliEiit* j«iM>9f:: tiiia Bfiiuic iiitf 1€ Ims
ifirife niiirtff tuS }ii*nrrT nf luni ntB^inery lor jingieBl}? fgrmmr iJ] uf idbimf^
%\tm'rr\\0^t 'Jk. XL IL7 ;r*H**ni'«r miC f*wu!x "n> IibSic?!' lat *&» *a fiej of Spwesd-
35g-frnrj Sift 4§ l<&Bsdsl.
- J- -r Iff -ii^ ^v. ; uf ma*:. 34. T. 22 3t. IL 1 SL: WiLinjie-
i»rL*fC ::ii*^ V 5 uf -£» «£- % ^ wt- ML !L 12 5L IL. 2 Z :
'.'^ «t.it uii*:»* trun -Qr' fiES* of Efliioxtf liroi^ir? 6*ft:tti.
•*!un»*r IT. l***"' Tnitr fiiiiirt-7 l«fu?* "ib*^ •nwrTiuct it tLftu-in.
i^nMi ; *i •> i:£^ -:i:i- «i^i^ 1^*^ If >z. 'Qfiiii** tjm rtj»>f£ enC Bi^ij»iira£ jl hj»
1^¥ If . .-'•iniftf f iiioiH: f ucr imciKrf ebC -.hit fiHnH!^ u! uffimir t niE^E-iii^
f«f JtVlL
l-E*.
vu:. 1
Tll*^ J*«H***
Ul
-:ii^ l/.i
Vlll Vilf
l.-i'.'
■*': -:i«
•noiit.
xix^
: i"i.
1 il.fi
Fur .
l^
H*".
i-*L r
5Sl ^;
V li 1
M> I..I
liliC --
IH
I. 1 '
iMi»*'ir:
Lli'.m.*-*- ^- '
':. V ii
<#»!*- -Hi
7
u.
•^ . !L
i*;aH*ft
11
-.11^
•' i-:i/
uflir.i-
VI
[•> riAH^i
VUi'tl
l:} :
•:»*'ii
iHl Z."^'
21U0 AFFAIRS OF THB MBXIOAK KIOKAPOO INDTANB.
listed MM Lewi! 0. Grimes In the cnltiTation of all of said Lewis 0. OrimeiTs
leases ; that prior to a little over two years ago affiant and his brothers held
a common interest with said Lewis C. Grimes in all of the latter's leases;
that a little over two years ago affiant and said Lewis 0. Grimes dissolyed
their partnership, at which time affiant agreed to turn his lease on the 80
acres (Tom Smith allotment) over to said Lewis C. Grimes; that from the
time of this division there has been no business connection whatever between
affiant and said Lewis O. Grimes in so far as the management of said leases
are concerned. Affiant further states positiyely that said Lewis 0. Grimes
has no interest nor Toice whatsoeyer In affiant's leases* excepting the one allot-
ment named above.
William O. Gancxs.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 7th day of Novem-
ber, 1905.
FlujTX A. THAOxnr.
BxHiBiT Na 40 [Goode].
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County, $9:
Personally appeared before me this 18th day of November, 1905, Lewis 0.
Grimes, of lawful age, who, being by me duly sworn, upon his oath deposes
and says that he has no connection whatsoever, either direct or indirect with
Z. T. Wright in any leases whatsoever on Indian lands; that affiant and said
Z. T. Wright did at one time attempt to purchase the leases of one Charles F.
Parker on Mexican Kickapoo allotments, for most of which they had secured
deed under the first rules of the Department governing the sales of heirship
Indian lands; that outside of this business connection affiant has had no
business connection whatsoever with the said Z. T. Wright in so far as the
leashig of Indian lands are concerned.
L. O. Gbimes.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 18th day of
November, 1905.
Fbank a. Thackket,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
fixHiBiT ^o. 50 [Goode].
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma, County of Oklahoma, 9$:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, A. G. Hollis, of
lawful age, who, being first duly sworn, upon his oath deposes and states that
affiant Is cashier of the Harrah State Bank, of Harrah, Okla. ; that a short
time ago one James E. Jenkins called at affiant's place of business and left
affiant his (James E. Jenkins's) card, the same being herewith attached: that
said James E. Jenkins asked affiant as to the residence of one licwis G. Grimes
and Ii. J. Pipher, whereupon affiant gave said James E. Jenkins the information
called for and offered to point out the home of said Grimes, which was only
about two blocks distant from affiant's place of business; that said James B.
Jenkins said to affiant to never mind (meaning that affiant nciHl not point
out further than affiant had already done so the home of said (trinies) : that
affiant saw said James E. Jenkins and L. J. Pipher together later and that
they took the west-bound train together, and that affiant underHtoo<l and lK»lieveH
that said James E. Jenkins and said Pipher went to Oklahoma City, Okla.,
together; and that affiant is informed and believes that said James E. Jenkins
did not set» nor call up<m said Grimes for any information relative to Indian
leases; and that affiant informed said James E. Jenkins that affiant had lived
APPAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2101
in this locality but a few months and did not know either said Grimes or said
Pipher very well, but that afOant understood and believed that both said Grimes
and said Pipher were men who drank intoxicants.
A. G. HoLLis.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day of Novem-
ber, 1906.
Fbank a. Thackebt,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Exhibit No. 51 [Goode].
Tebbitobt of Oklahoma,
Pottawatomie County, ss:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority. Mack Johnson, of
lawful age, who, being by me first duly sworn, upon his oath deposes and states
that he is well and personally acquainted with L. J. Pipher, of Harrah, Okla.;
that he has known said Pipher for about four years last past; that he has
seen said Pipher drinking whisky, and that said Pipher bought and gave afOant
whisky at Harrah, Okla., and at McLoud, Okla.
Mack Johnson.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 14th day of No-
vember, 1905.
[8EAL.1 PETEB p. RaTZLAFF,
Notary Public.
My commission expires May 8, 1905.
Tebbitoby of Oklahoma,
Pottawatomie County, ss:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority. Pern me pah hone,
of lawful age, who, being by me first duly sworn, upon his oath deposes and says,
that he is well acquainted with L. J. Pipher, of Harrah, Okla.; that he has
known said Pipher for about four years last past; that he has seen said Pipher
drinking whisky, and that said Pipher bought and give Mack Johnson whisky
at Harrah, Okla.
Pem me pah hone (his x mark).
Witnesses to mark:
Thos. W. Alfobd.
W. F. Dickens.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 15th day of November, A. D. 1905.
[seal.] T. W. Alford,
Notary Public.
My commission expires January 23, 1907.
Exhibit No. 52 [Goode].
Tebbitoby of Oklahoma,
County of Oklahoma, ss:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, Al Staebler, of
lawful age, who, being first duly sworn, deposes and states that afllant is in
the livery and stable business in the town of Harrah, Okla.; that afllant Is
well and personally acquainted with Lewis C. Grimes, who afilant has known
for the past twelve years, and that aflSant is similarly acquainted with L. J.
Pipher, who affiant has known about four years last past ; that aflSant has seen
both the said Grimes and the said Pipher drinking intoxicants; that afllant has
seen the said Pipher so nearly under the influence of intoxicants that said
Pipher could not walk straight; that affiant has taken said Pipher to his
(Pipher's) home when said Pipher was too drunk to ^^VeL\ X}Ci]5.\. ^^^axiXX^'e^
2102 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
drank intoxicants with said Pipher and said Grimes many times, and that
affiant has seen said Pipher intoxcated many times; that affiant has drank
intoxicants with two of said Pipher*8 sons/and seen said sons drinking such
Intoxicants many times ; tliat .said Pipher^s son William is now a bartender in
the town of McLoud, Okla.» in the saloon of Makoska.
Al 9ta
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day of Noyem-
ber, 1907.
Fbank A. Thackebt,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
BxHiBTT No. 53 [Goode].
TKBBrroRY OF Oklahoma, County of Oklahoma, sa:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, William Muhl-
ausen of lawful age, who being by me first duly sworn upon his oath, deposes
and says that affiant has resided in the vicinity of Harrah, Okla., since the year
1901 : that affiant has been well and iwrsonally acquainted with Lewis C.
Grimes during all of said time, and that affiant has similarly known L. J. Pipher
for about four years last past; that affiant has seen both said men Grimes
and Pipher drinking intoxicants to the extent that they were partially drunk ;
that affiant has frequently drank intoxicants with said Pipher, and at one time
with said Grimes; that affiant knows of his own personal knowledge that saw
logs were taken from the NW. i of sec. 19, T. 12 N., R. 2 E., by Will Dye, a
sawmill man. whose place of business Is near the town of Harrah aforesaid ;
that said Will Dye told affiant that he (Will Dye) was sent to get said saw
logs by said Grimes, who sjild Will Dye further Informed affiant owed said
Will Dye a bill for sawing other lumber; that affiant assisted said Will Dye
in cutting about nine saw logs from sjild land, five of which were cut from
land now In cultivation and four of which were cut from the south 80 of said
quarter section of land, the same SO (south N<M being thereafter sold, as affiant
is informed and believes; that affiant knows of other saw logs having been
taken from Indian land, but affiant does not know what dlsiK>8ltlon was made of
the lumber made from said logs, more than that a ymrt of sjild lumber was used
for improvements on Indian lands leased by said Grimes; that affiant has no
knowledge of said Grimes having sold any logs or lumber other than as stated
in the deal with Will Dye aforesaid ; that affiant has heard and known of
said Grimes selling cord wood taken from Indian land, the most of which has
since been put in cultivation.
Wm. Muhlausen.
Subscribed to In my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day of Novem-
ber, 1905.
I<^RANK A. THACKERY,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Exhibit No. 54 f Goode],
Territory of Oklahoma. County of Oklahoma, ss:
Personally ap|)eare<l before me, the undersigned authority, James F. Curry,
of lawful age, who, being first duly sworn ui)on his oath, dept>ses and says he has
known liewls C. Grimes for four years past; that durlngtheyear IDOSatflant aiul
his three brothers, his father, and one E. D. Bryant (brother-in-law of affiant),,
oontracted to clear the timber off of about 60 acres from the W. i of the SE. 4
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2108
•
of sec. 13, T. 12 N., R. 1 E., allotted to Pe ah che thot, and the B. i of the SB. }
of sec. 13, T. 12 N., R. 1 E., allotted to Kah kah che, Mexican Klckapoo allot-
tee No. 34, but now sold to H. T. Douglas, of Shawnee, Okla., from said Lewis
O. Grimes, who affiant believed and understood to have a legally approved lease
or a deed for the land in question ; that affiant and his brothers and father and
the said E. D. Bryant were to receive the wood taken from said land as their pay
for the work of clearing it off of said land ; that affiant is well and personally
acquainted with L. J. Pipher and has so known said Pipher for the three years
last past, and that during said three years affiant has resided not to exceed 1^
miles distant from the home of said Pipher; that affiant frequently sees said
Pipher in the town of Harrah, Okla.; that affiant at such times has several
times seen said Pipher when he (Pipher) was under the influence of whisky or
other strong drink to the extent that said Pipher could not walk straight.
JAS. F. Cubby.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 7th day of Novem-
ber, 1906.
Fbank A. Thackebt,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
Exhibit No. 55 [Goode].
Terbitoby of Oklahoma, County of Oklahoma^ sa:
Personally a pea red before me this 8th day of November, 1905, S. B. Robert-
son of lawful age, who, being first duly sworn upon his oath, deposes and says
that affiant has resided in the locality of Harrah, Okla., for more than one
year last past ; that during said time affiant has known Lewis C. Grimes and
L. J. Pipher personally; that a part of said time affiant wotked for said
Grimes on some of his Indian leases; that affiant has seen both said Grimes
and said Pipher drinking whisky or other intoxicants to the extent that they
were under its influence; that to affiant's personal knowledge said Grimes has
not improperly disposed of wood in any form from Indian lands during the
time affiant has known said Grimes; that said Grimes has sold cord wood taken
from Indian land where the land from which the wood was taken was put in
cultivation in accordance with the specifications of his lease contract; that
affiant now holds the office of deputy sherifl! for the county of Oklahoma, this
Territory.
S. B. ROBEBTSON.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day^f Novem-
ber, 1905.
Fbank A. Thackeby,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Exhibit No. 56 [Goode].
Tebritoby of Oklahoma, County of Oklahoma, ss:
Personally apeared before me, the undersigned authority, W. L. Bradley, of
lawful age, who, being by me first duly sworn, uix)n his oath deposes and says
that affiant has resided in the vicinity of Harrah, Okla., for the past six years,
during all of which time he has been well and i)ersonally acquainted with Lewis
C. Grimes, and the last four years of which affiant has similarly known I.. J.
Pipher; that affiant has seen both said Grimes and said Pipher drinking
whisky or other intoxicants; that affiant has seen said Pipher and his sons,
William, and another son now in Oklahoma City, Okla., whose name affiant
can not now remember, under the influence of strong drink; that affiant be-
lieves that said L. J. Pipher uses more intoxicants than does said Grimes, and
that affiant has never seen said Grimes under the influence of intoxicants.
Affiant further states that he Is well acquainted in the neighborhood of Harrah
aforesaid, and that affiant has known sjiid Grimes for the last thirteen y^^t^
and that affiant has never heard of said Grlmea aeWVn^ «L\i^ \\rcc&i«t^ ^^^^ ^st
2104 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
saw lo^ taken in any form from Indian lands, bat that affiant has known of
said Grimes selling cord wood taken from Indian lands where the land from
whence the wood was tak^i was later put in cultivation In accordance with a
lease contract
N. L. Bradley.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this Sth day of Novem-
ber» 1905.
FbANK a. TlIACKERY,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
Exhibit No. 57 [Goode].
Territory op Oklahoma, County of Oklahoma, ss:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, James M. Curry,
of lawful age, who, being by me first duly sworn, upon his oath de|K)ses and
says that he has known Lewis C. Grimes for the four years last past ; that
during the year 1903 affiant and his four sons, and one E. D. Bryant, con-
tracted with the said I^ewis C. Grimes to clear the timber off of 60 acres from
the W. 1 of the SE. i and the E. \ of the SB. i of sec. 13, T. 12 N, R. 1 E.,
allotted to Pe-ah-che-thot and Kah-kah-che, respectively; that affiant under-
stood that said Lewis C. Grimes had a legally approved lease on the W. i of
the SE. i of said section, and that he (the said Grimes) had a deed for the
other 80-acre tract named above; that affiant cleared oflP about 40 acres of
land under said contract and then stopped for the reason that the time for
crop planting had come; that affiant is well and personally acquainted with
one L. J. Pipher; that affiant has known said Pipher about three years last
past; that dujring said three years affiant has frequently seen the said Pipher
intoxicated and under the influence of intoxicants.
James M. Curry.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 7th day of Novem-
ber, 1905.
Frank A. Thackery,
Suprrinttndcnt and i^pccial Dishunting Agent.
Exhibit No. 58 [Goode].
Tebbitory of Oklahoma,
County of Oklahoma, ss:
Personally appearetl before me, the undersigned authority, John W. Honea, of
lawful age, who, being by me first duly swoni, uik)u his oath deiM)8e8 and says
that affiant is a merchant in the town of Harrah, Okla. ; that affiant has
been well and personally acquainted with Lewis C Grimes for the past nine
years, and that affiant has similarly known L. J. I'ipher for about two years
last past; that to affiant's personal knowledge both the s:iid Grimes and siiid
Pipher drink Intoxicants; that affiant has frequently seen both of siiid men
drinking intoxicantH. and that affiant has stHMi said Pipher so drunk that said
Pipher could not walk straight at M»veral dlflferent times, but that affiant Ims
never w»en said Grimes in a condition tliat ho ((Jrlnies) could not walk stralglit,
nor proi)erly transjict his own ((Jrlmt^s's) business. AMlant further st:it<»s that
he has never known nor heard (until this day) that said (irhnes over sold any
lumber, saw logs, or posts taken in any f(»nn from Indian lands, but that
affiant has known of said Grimes s<»llini: cord wo<Hi taken from Indian lands;
that, so far as affiant knows and l>oliovt»s, all of such w<mh1 was taken troni land
that was later put in cultivation in accordance with a lease contract.
John W. Honea.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this Sth day of Novem-
ber, 1905.
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent,
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAFOO INDIANS. 2106
Exhibit No. 59 [Goode].
Territory of Oklahoma,
County of Oklahoma, 88:
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, G^rge Allen, of
lawful age, who, being first duly sworn, upon his oath deposes and states that
affiant is well and personally a^uainted with L. J. Pipher and has known him
for one year last past : that afiMt has seen said Pipher in the town of McLoud,
Okla., frequently, and that every time affiant has seen said Pipher in said town
he was or had been drinking intoxicants; that affiant has drank whisky or
other intoxicants with the said Pipher ; that one William Pipher, who is a son
of the said L. J. Pipher, is at this time bartender in the saloon of " Ma-
koska," at McLoud, Okla.; that affiant has seen both said Pipher and his son
aforesaid under the influence of intoxicants; that affiant has seen said
L. J. Pipher playing cards (the game known as "pitch") in the saloon afore-
said at the town of McLoud, Okla. ; that affiant is residing upon land belonging
to Lewis C. Grimes.
George Allen (his x mark).
Witnesses to mark:
Frank A. Thackery.
Peter P. Ratzloff.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 7th day of Novem-
ber, 1905.
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Exhibit No. 60 [Gk)ode].
Treasurer's Office, Oklahoma County,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November ^, 1905.
To whom It may concern :
1 have known Mr. I^wis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about two years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, i)eaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he lias
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good ; and I cheerfully indorse him as a
gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as a
farmer and stockman, and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
Geo. H. Klein.
Exhibit. No. 61 [Goode].
Office of Police Department,
Oklahoma City, Okla., November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern:
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about fourteen years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good; and I cheerfully indorse him as a
gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as a
farmer and stockman, and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
B. W. COCHRUE,
27813— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 3 ^15
2106 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS,
Exhibit No. 62 [Goode].
' OmcE or G. W. Gasbison,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern :
I have known Mr. Lewis O. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about twelve years,
and I have known his j^eneral reputation for being a law-abiding. i>eaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community iu which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good ; and I cheerfully indorse him as a
gentleman entirely worthy of cpnfidence. He lias had great experience as a
farmer and stockman, and lias been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
M. A. O'Brien,
EX'Shcriff.
BzHiBiT No. 63 [Goode].
The American National Bank,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November 4, 1905,
To whom it may concern:
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about fifteen years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good; and I cheerfully indorse him as a
gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as a
farmer and stockman, and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
J. H. Wheeler, President,
Exhibit No. 64 [Goodel.
Office of G. W. Garrison,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern :
I have known Mr. I^wls C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about six years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good; and I cheerfully indorse him as a
gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as a
iarmer and stockman, and has beoi successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
G. W. Garrison,
Sheriff, Oklahoma County, Okla.
Exhibit No. 65 [Goode].
Office of Register of Deeds,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern :
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about ten years,
and I baye known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable.
AFPAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2107
honorable* and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have kn(»wn him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good ; and I cheerfully indorse him as
a gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as
a farmer and stockman and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
n. D. P. Wright,
Ex-County Assessor.
Exhibit No. 66 [Goode].
Office of Police Depabtmeitt,
Oklahoma City, Okla., November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern:
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about sixteen years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good: and I cheerfully indorse him as
a gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as
a farmer and stockman and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
John Hubatka.
Exhibit No. 67 [Goode].
Oklahoma City, Okla., November .^, 1905,
To whom it may concern :
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about twelve years,
and I have known bis general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good ; and I cheerfully indorse him as
a» gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as
a farmer and stockman and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
T. J. Griffith.
Exhibit No. 68 [Goode].
Probate Court, Oklahoma County,
Oklahoma City, Okla,, November 4, 1905.
To whom it may concern :
I have known Mr. Lewis C. Grimes, of Harrah, Okla., for about ten years,
and I have known his general reputation for being a law-abiding, peaceable,
honorable, and financially reliable man in each community in which he has
resided during all the years since I have known him, and I know his general
reputation in all these particulars to be good; and I cheerfully indorse him as
a gentleman entirely worthy of confidence. He has had great experience as
a farmer and stockman and has been successful in these lines of business.
Very respectfully,
2108 APFAIB8 OF THE MEZIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Exhibit No. C9 [Goode].
United States Indian Agency,
Shawnee, Okla,, November 18, 1905.
The Commissioneb or Indian Affaibs,
Washington, D. 0.
Sib : I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated October 30,
1005, with reference to the trouble between Levi J. Plpher and Lewis 0. Grimes,
of Harrah, Okla., both lessees of Mexican Kldcapoo allotments, In which, after
going briefly over the history of the case and quoting from the recent report of
an Inspector, you Instruct me as follows :
" In view of these facts, particularly In regard to the character of these two
men, of Grimes's violation of the terms of his lease and of your admission that
Grimes Is not a proper man to give a lease to, the OfDce would like to have a
report from you at an early date covering the points indicated."
Upon receipt of your letter I immediately made a personal inspection of each
and every lease of Mr. Grimes's and of the character of both Mr. Grimes and
Mr. Plpher in the community where they live. With reference to the character
of these two men, I inclose herewith the affldavits of the following-named
persons residing at or near Harrah, Okla., the same being attached together
and marked "Exhibit A": Al Staebler, a liveryman in the town of Harrah,
Okla. ; Wm. Mahlausen, a farmer residing near Harrah, Okla. ; James F. Gurry,
a farmer residing near Harrah, Okla.; S. B. Robertson, a deputy sheriff of
Oklahoma County, Okla., residing in Harrah, Okla.; W. L. Bradley, a farmer
residing near Harrah, Okla.; James M. Curry (father of James F. Curry), a
farmer residing near Harrah, Okla; John W. Honea, a merchant in the town
of Harrah, Okla., and George Allen, a farmer residing near Harrah, Okla. In
addition to my taking the affidavits above referred to, I called upon Mr. Plpher
and requested of him, in the presence of Peter P. Ratzlaff, that he furnish me
any evidence that he desired to offer with reference to his character, and that
he give me the names of any persons that he mif^ht wish to refer me to with
reference to his character. The only witness that Mr. Plpher sent to me was
Wm. Mahlausen, whose affidavit Is referred to above and is herewith inclosed.
He gave me the names of a number of persons, however, who he said I might
ask regarding bis cbarnctcr, among whom were Otto W. Skorkowsky; a Mr.
Kelly, living about a pile north of Mr. PIpher's home; Mr. S. W. Robertson,
and Mr. John W. Honea. The affidavits of Mr. Robertson and Mr. Honea are
referred to above and herewith inclosed, and I talked personally with both Mr.
Skorkowsky and Mr. Kelly, who gave me the same facts as are contained
generally in the affidavits above referred to, to wit, that both Mr. Grimes and
Mr. Plpher were frequently seen drinking intoxicants. I also talked with a
great many of the farmers and business men In the locality of Harrah with
reference to the character of these two men, and I did not find any person who
knew either Mr. Grimes or Mr. Plpher who would say other than both of these
men drink Intoxicants. It was generally admitted, however, that while they
both drank in about an equal degree, Mr. Plpher becomes intoxicated with a
much less amount than does Mr. Grimes, and consequently he more frequently
becomes intoxicated, though he probably drinks no more than does Mr. Grimes.
It was also generally agreed that when Mr. Plpher is under the influence of
intoxicants he is good natured and insists on treating all of his associates, and
that Mr. Grimes, when Intoxicated, Is inclined to be quarrelsome. With refer-
ence to the drinking liablt of these two men, therefore, I must differ from the
report of the Inspector, my conclusions being that of the two men Mr. Plpher
becomes intoxicated frequently and Mr. Grimes only occasionally; in fa(>t, I
found but very few of the many citizens I talked with who had ever seen him
even partially under the influence of intoxicants, it being generally stated by
them that while he drinks whenever be feels like It, he knows enough to stop
before getting too much.
There are Inclosed herewith and marked " Exhibit B," the affidavits of Mack
Johnson and Pem me pah hone wah to the effect that Mr. Pipher has bought and
given them whisky, whloh fact further Indicates the character of the man.
With fortiier reference to the character of theee two men, I would ftatt that
AFFAOB or TBX MKMJCAU MSCKAFOO OnMASaL 8109
mr pBTWfmMl <aiuiiii(ttM IB if flMC wH> tfecB bfCh 4h^vc Cke fut fow ;
aa^ «iI3 lietr unt^ vvr^fiezt&n ss ntaj ke saiAe «C tkcnu sai tkst vfeen ke ii
f^qmd i« t« !a tib^ wtqokI be^ £rBri|F aAadCi the amne ssi a^^sss ks wfQ^&^ani
%& ssft^ tv^oteiSctl WssSt Mr. F^ter, ksm^RBU I ted tlbst kjs Kxsmmeass
^^tio: iv.t^ Ift- fE2!7 velScd tDp^n; ttat he sHMfltr nales a 9»oi anssvw^ «■
£n:t fc^9^xa±i{tiaK« ssi i&st is ti&S^s oi«r a mamsser sack as Ike «Be la ktadl
ijc- ;*>^rRifr^ jx ^a3F6i&B<^aa; all «f the 9»od pMBts aC Mmwliy. asc artiwyBiT'iag ttet
k*- lifLf «LL7 ioA ImMsL. aad Iwnfrrng tku he ii ia Ike rSI^M ia aO dat has
trt2i*^Crf9d^ aad ihst Ids ffpcffieaC his fceea la Ike viaac firaai ftnt la lis^
asrj if difibcGkess a^id ^OKsaBr «BS«£jah5«L Wr. <&^9ea. «■ the CQcuTaiT, is
2ix^:^:Mid V.' ki^A at h^nk codes aC a «<:<SLtr^?««rQr aad ta act £i3i1tf ia aH sack
niiL-ni^Mrfi. T<& zlk^is; c^caitF ^^sv tke deeesi^^ffleai aC Xr. P^ker la Viuaagas
iiESi£(5iL I w^icM i«s$«af««tr r£'»' ti» BF k«£er ta peqa* ^fiee aC Aju^att Kt
2i»:i^ za c^9v^4? ts» jHnr Sec^o-. 4x%td Assist :3L 19IIIL asd la ai^' letsa- ^ Jvse
as. '5<^ Tx* Hc«L H'^vaefa Spiwid. Cn-Twi g5»fiw atSMnuer- <iaplts «ff wifca^k axe
berf-ini^ zb^^ofied aind mKi^ad ^ ExkSlct C* B^e^x^ .yiwxtSag firaai tke» lessess I
w'.nLA macyt Thm Irun tkc it2"jt9iK9ii:§ <ctf Mr. P^i^dur «a Hqol Hcaaee ^pmdL Cxittd
JNt£i«f si*c«nK7 li^ tkif dsstr^A. ke i§ mmesa^Ksas la adcare fnankAe a^ssos kf
tlie Lfuf^ATOi^n cficaB The Tvaneur^ <^ ks leases «■ lad^aa laad hy
jS3K9a3i«' <tf.i±e rcSs and re^ailtsiS^aff vHk iefeiicaig ^ tbe lee^ap aC
liLit^: t^olT i^ TTisrag <€ tke can^ieillatSciB «(r Mz. F^^Mefm leases v^as
intt3:**«5w2 w 21*^ ^ I'.Sa W. fe*:<!5i^.rsL aaRfnasa CEnid Ssasea aiKimey lar
Ti-:*" •fjsrn!-: : liitt ic addrti'im 13& lii*' f;2?;$»«D^.m '.if tii** ^a^iscaait Uaiasfl SsaSES
*-ni-*ra*7'. I ta^t^xS t±i»- 21:1; Tj**- -«swr«- '^jisv.msJlj wrii H-d^ Hcc»ce %it?**l ii:f«k
*T Ljf cdS^it. !3 <rirrl^i*-_ fwr'^f tzi«3 at iSi»- T^i^^s^trJl H:n*i. 31 O^iiiicaaa
larice v> «2Qr arDoii w-'r:^ i^*t*s^^ v.- '±j^ -etst^ftsliifb'.fa ctf Mr. P^&esr^i !>«aBes;
-Jiiat Hj. gy'^^'fl '^.m'lrrTWffi 3j ti**- fJiscswfiDus -^tf io* t«:is:a2iT as i& tibe fa2K?K!2»-
tj'tL c<f Mr. Pij^iHfT^f ieL««^*. loii liitT w.Km tSitiretfi-yr Mr. Pjjdto's lesLsef v^sr^
-n',-^ irj >«r*!r c*f Jii^j 17, o^'.C* • viuti I re^^it^eifisIJy reguea iie rt-rj^Tr^*^ ia
lilt ?*'.mfii'i*?T.tkm <tf T^"^ ^a-nt -. i3pc« tke Ki»ei^tk «if w4ii?kL Mr. P^&«^s
>-4:s»s v«»r ^:tit^>d M3 TLf^TJ.iSi*^ 2a p^ET knsar. da[:»9d r«&raatT 21- l^iS;
T^i It 2S zkf?a €^J5ei:t t2ii;i Mr. F^dka* has lup&iBgkt fi&^vqgk isfnesieie k< hetr
v-}::^ Mz. ^iBti^ nf '» 2ii.2j^iad 2x Ms Setaer li> ae aC A$rS U. ISi^u aad hi has
ASSES' ta p9i trrtrtnT-'-nzs^g tke tH^'jeait fHwitfait aC Mr. P^fftes; cep6es «f -ahkk
ai% heff'^viik m^jvA tsid t&ulcad " ExhShot D«* a» lateee Mc ^peed la ^^anigp
has ati^Tia3e is tht taae. I tkjoik ^ prefer a» slaae keee tkat a senai^ fisftst is
iieiiizs; ma^e yrij'^tfff ^^ regggc>isni»ng ^ BkoL ITis sn ^peed to ios jircsieat
pcieriSax^ £tid iitfit Mr. Gfttutes » a Demciaat axii Is harlrni! Ssr tber x&cat p&it
I7 Tiie fx^Tkert'*- <^ znei^^iesY <€ tke UesoKCsatSe fazlsr. and arkSe I di» aoC ksi^inr
t>& viisEt ^«^:«:rD^!i:: ^ar:? Mr. Pz^&er kc^^axga. h&s ka^z^as ^ ^^^ antter auaies
iMT t^it Hi.tft >»tr: fr:!a men-b^^ '.tf ike B**piifcilicaa psitj.
E^^^rzTT- "rg; 'Jit^n, Z'.* ttHr «ctt*aiiesctf tJSBdzjtitffl 3a jut lecaer ^ Aiipai^ 1ft. MWL
•Lfr T-.fiLr rjCi^.?^. izit vj> lilt ^eaet <£ Mr. ^tfnO. 10 Jut ^ A^irS 14. ISCfiu I aa
ti::i-:'j»r *!& -zzit^T^'^viit ifcnr Mr. F^jdiar ^nx at ikM trmf fues&S ^gaiscEaiQe «€ tke
rxj^ <^ T±ie l*^j\jrziasLZ. as fsd^tsned ^ 1x7 lener ^& pg« af Aagmtf Ml, 1S^
••ru*-r»it. I fCtt*-
- Mr- Pi;&¥r tier:;? tZ ^ tiie vkiie ftffly adrteeifl -af tSie 3aar as to tke Seasda^
■'.«f iii»«e tli-.c=i*!i--* • : bfcT^nr fcirMtid kia jis^aallj tiiat n^ leaae oi lai-laa
^Liif -tn^i^j iie 11^^ j^iCL. €X{3(^cixts ^ tke m^i^Fynl «( tke Scvs^saiy «f i^it
I *iacr7t*»— '^^ '^^rj ii5c:ii:*!2j ^ afli!i»C3tg Mr. PSipftker cai*ifiE!?T as to vket aras
liitjxz. ■ L-jt. I Li' ^.T i'.o*- »:• ZL Tiie pe^cseai^ «ff apr«a2 ctf i^ €fier^ •Mr Tkas
:r*«'*:. vii: l_:»<: iiL-^-t i liKLiii *: r»!iiJieiL*»rtii?ie «^ tke «i^«a«:iiL Mr. F^^i*^- tiisi.
TX* l«e;jLriii-!L-.- Ti»»- tt^rjt zrt tiat he ^€57- w^ k2ipsr iC ttf t2ie rrnae -a-lait
iTkf ie_'rt*rt.ir7 1: ?*fr:'iir*r t >aa^ iet^^e «e iltt ItzrS f-^jcrteBt^i fe«r- tud TirEt he
aTL* HiLf**: i: ••e.j*'T*: i-T c^msu'St jftrtja lali;- tia: ia-i a '•Ir^it zn*!!*;!!: ii: tiie
«a«**^ i.iii v^^*: t'Ti-.f-p^ 1: laT-e 1^ j':»tai v,*zTVt j»fe» x^jic. tht p:«ar: a* a»
waf j*:ctl -» ^-ii'in -Li**: i-i^^JTiJ f*f the S*^!?»*:arT <€ the Im^^rtw* tist thtsa
WMA 2A vTit^.«ui i^is tioa hjs Jcaai; vi2k a ksal s^^BcdJaa vaoijd ka kdid kf tha
2110 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
courts to be fegal, and be accordingly Ignored tbe Department and made light
of any attempts on my part to have tbe courts sustain tbe Department The
Information contained In the letter addressed to me by the Hon. Horace Speed
on April 14, 1905, with reference to tbe character of Mr. Grimes is believed
to have come directly from Levi J. Pipber, and tbe majority of tbe charges
made therein are criminally wrong and made with the evident purpose of In-
fluencing Mr. Speed in behalf of Mr. PIpber. I carefully Investigated these
statements and referred to them in my letter of June 26, 1905, to Mi. Speed,
a copy of which is herewith Inclosed as a part of "Exhibit O." It Is stated
In these charges:
" That L. C. Grimes, who has the lease, is a man with a long series of crimes
in his record, and that comparatively recently, in November, 1904. at Harrah,
on the night of the election, he cut to pieces with a knife a barber, intending to
kill him, and that since that time, in 1905, at Harrah, he also cut with a knife
one Charles Ott'ut
*' The claim is that Grimes took and raised the children of bis outlaw brother,
and that they have become outlaws or men of violent lives, and that he bas
around him a set of men who are men of violence, and some of them, at least,
are horse thieves, when occasion presents Itself. Among these are mentioned
Dude Grimes, who is said to have often drawn his knife on people at and
around Harrah who were not pleasing to him, and Tack Grimes, who bas had
similar habits and was with L. C. Grimes In cutting the barber al)ove named.
'* Charles Herron, a tough character, who drew his knife on Rob Ray about a
year ago at Harrah at a dance given at a section man's house, Curry.
who drew bis knife on old man Pipher, tbe lessee, on the lessee's land about the
early part of this March, and Jack Keppler, also a tough."
As stated before, tbe great majority of these charges are criminally false
(and were made in all probability by Mr. Pipher, who must have known at the
time that they were for the most part false) and were made for the purpose of
deceiving i)er8ons in authority in behalf of Mr. Piplier. As stated before, Mr.
Grimes usually assumes an attitude of ill-nature wlien he is intoxicated, and
when In this condition he bas bad two or three fights, much to bis discredit,
but as best I can learn and believe neither he nor his deceased brother were at
any time fugitives from justice or connected in any way with any misdemeanor
other than those referred to above, none of which seem to have been of enough
importance to have ever been brought to trial. It is true that Mr. Grimes
raised the children of his deceased brother, but as to their being outlaws or
undesirable citizens of this locality I would state that such a charge is abso-
lutely false and that they are respected citizens. Those of them who are of
lawful age are married and have families and are farming for a livelihood and
are fully equal to the average citizen of their locality in so far as character is
concerned. I deem it much to the credit of Mr. Grimes that be should have
taken this large family of children and raised them from childhood up. As
further showing the character and standing of Mr. Grimes, there is inclosed
herewith and marked ** Exhibit D" the statements of the following-named citi-
zens of the county In which Mr. Grimes resides : George H. Klein, treasurer of
Oklahoma county; R. W. Cochrue, ex-chief of police of Oklahoma City, Okla. ;
M. A. O'Briene, ex-sherlff of Oklahoma County ; J. H. Wheeler, president of the
American National Bank, Oklahoma City, Okla.; G. W. Garrison, present
sheriff of Oklahoma County, Okia. ; J. L. Mitch, register of deeds of Oklahoma
County, Okla. ; D. P. Wright, ex-county assessor of Oklahoma County, Okla. ;
John Hubatka, chief of police, Oklahoma City, Okla. ; T. J. Griflith, hardware
dealer, Oklahoma City, Okla., and William P. Harper, probate judge of Okla-
homa County, Okla., all of which go to show that Mr. Grimes Is an honorable,
peaceful, and law-abiding citizen. I requested Mr. Pipher, as before stated, to
furnish me with similar statements with reference to the character of himself,
which he failed to do. I satlsfled myself, however, that one son of Mr. Pipher's,
Oscar Pipher by name, is a most excellent young man In every respect, and
that there Is nothing but good words spoken of him by everyone who knows
him, but that two other sons of Mr. Pipher's are less reliable and have the
undesirable habit like their father, of indulging in intoxicants, all of which is
indicated in a part of the affidavits of ** Exhibit A," showing not only that two
of his sons have this bad habit, but also that one of them (William Pipher) is
at this time a bartender In the saloon of Makoska. at McLoud. Okla.
As to Grimes's violation of the terms of bis lease, as stated before, I made
a careful personal Insi)ectlon of each lease contract of Mr. Grimes's, and with-
out going into tbe details of each contract, I would state that the Improvements
ATTAnSB or THM MlfTffiiy KKXAFOO mXJJES. 2111
c&ffled £«• feB Uff aoMB kiYv Mt, for Cke BMt fnrt. tos saiie kjr jifc
Jfeict «if t^ iiiiiaS 2«9i^«i ^ he pm §■ cslt3vaa&6a VBder lie QrsBOis^f aekfi» is
fioor sa £ |;c#Q«S fits^tbe «C finBtriviauu xik&. «» Car la dK' cautsv^ss^sis «tf sa^ Ib&ad
Sf ^eoA'jemed. 1 £&>iiiid 3t te i« Sa a coori^ssiia csgnaJasr ;p««i i» ttet «€ Mil P^^xi^m.
Jl fftun fjf ii«%' lia«^ <efi2JiirriLiieid isr ^f^^ iQri3ii€» iiJi«4 FJg^dcs- vitf Scisll «-£!^ v%cid&.
4of |«12«^^$j£lI27 m <siK& «ftK M i^ esaeoBvie noLia aad vrsitaL s&av pren^sSios
l^mif •ciL i^eiBtr iiIkM]&ies8s «x^iinf D^wsAier 21, mi^ aa€ lie C^^i«ft Idts
fB^^v v>.< t^i dtift:. £:i>i I 101X4- iii»oiai&fid Ifttt; aA&sS^flksl tuaiier fee i^oiii •SifiiT^ti
te» mshr iLiufi ill* urcina** » «fcjTi»(a ^cb;^.
Jls i» nij bdiiu*j«^ij!b ^ idiei €^i2if» If A9t a pms^ier aaaa to 0ve a ie^Rf teu'" I
^KW :&» ttSr-ji*^ 1^1^ I «^fl sksc ssasc^ to Iter mspi^fSix t&ott Gi^mie^ «r»» fisc a
•^ I m^^Jt 1^1 I v-as '^ e!iidk£T<«v±us; 1a» T^^fiej Gft3i«§ £v the I<s4 imsiciaBCsst
^worSsffi "^f":^?!' tn Tiie iiEmSs ^ Boiaa^."* is ctie ta^BS. mxsmt hr t£be 23i^|iBefi0r. I
«€!£ fi!2i:ii!r 1^' Tiif iiH)].«Bt5L^. ii9«n¥vc5L i^L^st JifL f^missk, as «ntfl 2« Mx. Pi^&tfc
^krasE^ €x^.«^»^^T<tt>T. liji^s ii^iidi Grmifis ir4t» druit^aicid %» i« ^famm^f^aut wriest he warn
<7S3i£.:iir r. 'Jixti I IxHt^ Itivd 9Mii& tpw&ie vifi^ ^^^aiis waidb re£«reDtcr to 3^ afl»-
^tcvx^jjeiitf ^%I^ tm m \iis- k;&«s: ttat €^^mef ftisid vuxe ^saiS t&i£a ^mnii
taf- \Iijw*it^ V2IT ^^(utt JsstSL £2id citei I <£jd ai«€ tkiisi^ 'm %Asei to reaev aa?- Se&«»
^ fifx^ir ^ L^ C GrmiSE. £xd luBd m» Ji&fftraetod idbt :&ddJi^«uitil Csiauer £«r
lli^ &^i^o:« tjr in« ^n;:>diiiK]& izi ^iR^vin^ 13^. :ksiiii» ob K^kdka$i&» iim&E. The
wmstzi^ii^ xixhz I i2rL-eii6*jC Vj ^oarrty is© fi* iii»5*wtor ly airjr «aci«aii«Et nrrdb prf-
«reii':* tc* ulIjij rr-ettniem rST^oi in- Jficnuw atgjam ikafitey- 11^1* lawfi jriH?! pir^or
-flnivx xi>. 1. iniiiit#«" <jtf fn^j^tsts ]«2tBa -oii K^Ju{$i»& tillwiMieEi* ±l ln-nwr <«f L. C.
fitrt ttf tiif ^/^c-rrh^-L tint Ti«t i£i«r tfbefit jeitfief^ inene n-pprvr-ftS ly tli** I^t^-n-jn-
fiUOlC. Tig tilt-". i#»r V.iIL.d 13«r !ti«? iifillfl t^JT *T* J«ia^ UrilBIL ±B lS5fc2±*3r- irtf iTlt* to
bliT* rii»r 'jMr C'f Tii*r Ih^i^ 4»IS ftO" <IIit yfOfJ. I tliCPrfiW* HTpfsfi llfllt Mx. GTiSBlW
iritf •en'.'-t**'^ •-:• t iMi:?j«r ii«nu <6tf teuBfe. 2f iif »nitf to ^ rtsgiiiwdi to iSB^trvnt ute
liLiic tif- i^*e'jjii^^ !ii Tiff* }«»iie» rfifenpcid »i. I ^ wi^ ^eak^ ftK9ie£«re- i^^t 1^
fiti-t-ei:**!!-^. i?r t-ii*: iii^iw-ter to t2« <eff«t *** ttet I hsv% taea €Bieainiima? to rEjpor
Grim** fT.'T -±Hr titii rr^ttmsEi ftewfrdftfl iiim ai ift» li£a^ aC BiBaaaer*' i^tpw
a jc*:»;»*r 'l^j-j^t-^^tv^x^d^^ «ff 11:7 j*:«:-d?«i od ifhw j*«p5st WMte 3t if vrat ifeat
Mr. Br£L'T^7 loi*^ I i£iiT^ -fijBa^Tcied to a fianiiAend^ erSfiBL asd ii2t£!i Mx.
€511^1 T-..r*.i 1,:*: x^ tCj^ir i^jf iixti to it .laiy -misj laOsosaaee tbj Ae5«B fcr «■
TS'rLi r*^.*?*^'.*' V.' Mr. Grim» ^i^^assip «f viooi 3z aagr ftJiTBD frooa Isffixa
aIj':C2i»*ii-:* '-M'rtrLrr -k* ".lit itv. I irt«isM Blato IStidt ii!3r «wD'Jhjski?aF lire tSb«^
tvrvrw: ty-.'ZL ^±i'.**^ i^f "±1*^ iiifij^ieeMci. aiid Giat iii» imi&er «B" Bi;"«r i^icf Inrrt
l»e«L K'.ul. t»r: tiiii: tl- lii-^T* junftis- t^ifiu frrmj Ijh^ils I01& iy Mr. ^ir^zu**
tJT'^ ii!*'- 1.', -^ti.. Tii**c* 1; fiii;iJj .EJiigdzia -a^as ifflfifl «b ieaiifl i^tSwrsp.^? ti» Mx. Grimt*.
wlie^e^-i -Jirtr j-.jr* .r'.iiL TT-iii'/l tii»- imiiiiw nrnf xxm^if w«re itaLfces fc*iE iSie itziS
j»f;-TLij-*fi -_; :»r j'v:: .1. '."ij^LTt-^ic. imaer a ieew 'ewEiriktJL It i* Trof tlrrr Mx.
Gr-ine^ lihf *^- ii L vr'.^ii^ii-j^rt.i'ifr luicixtlsi ^ -wipfl V'tiGid fpoB laidgax iioad. ina afi*
ftr uf : '--.'Tji LH'.'^'ni .-:l ^r-'.iL z t^tt efiis*i23 Sbmneatjtgiiiawii tin* -sr-tiwS Sxb5 aB
l»*f*n lur-ei fr-.»ii 1i:!j1 r*?rclr%d Si* iie jnri in -?!itl33Taia«a iBUder a lAstsit vjosrh^s^
4LiiC ii^ V L*- - •..-'• '^ -r^ ^-.-j-j^rt 'v' t^ryjffmi* il* -iRasid to Ies •w^ hk aiii nt&^f
W;— '.yf^r^ir-r :/. -J>^ '±:i?T»i»' is ^^sffiTaS j^»5i»e Mx. €^mem aafl tef fSOTsae^
iS'.*!! v-'i L."»r'.» ;!! r:j*?* _::: tii*- i*^ftTir iissi3KB&. ttiiwie ai* inritewia JiBrf^r^iffe tkr*«
fi^6iv,> •■.■• '_ '_ G-Hi^ K'i'2 ^ci*r Vf Wm. C ^^TCTWE. mEf%.-wS 'Exlf'^'h EL*'
Tbpr»r > i-fc .-.r-y.^^^t iHr'-'^vrii ^116 sueifeefl ""Exl^ct F" Hie aifi^rf^ c€ Jl^ €L
atrw -Pir. r-.i -..i^: ■'.■ i:iT'»r -er^L*- m^*m P55&«r ^e Idf li^gr? tzn^yxi'^T*?!.
&Em± 3 JET.': !€• 'L^":!!**?? fni Mx P^ter iKi?ft?!iier lu lie js^neBPifie g(f Ji:-«iiii w,
5t*iji*^ i-iif iiiil: Mx 3i>iie^ t^es s*^« ik tha faesi^ aa CBOSaiafid a Ms aJbdar^
2112 AFFAIB8 OT THB MXZIGAK KIOKAPOO INDIAK8.
inclosed berewith at a part of ** Exhibit A ; ** tbat I questioned Mr. Pipber in
the presence of Mr. Honea with reference to the matter, whereupon he admit-
ted that the statements of Mr. Honea were correct From the conversation I
had with Mr. Pipher and Mr. Grimes at this time I am confident that I can now
settle this long-standing difficulty by giving Mr. Pipher's son Oscar (a most
excellent young man) leases on two or three desirable allotments; by permit-
ting the leases of L. 0. Grimes to expire (insisting, however, that bis improve-
ment contracts be fully complied with), with the understanding that they will
not be renewed to him, and by permitting W. 0. Grimes (a man of good stand-
ing in bis community, who is now head of a family and farming entirely upon
his own responsibili^, and whose leases I find to be in a good condition as to
improvements and cultivation) to retain the leases he now holds, with the
understanding that they be renewed under the same conditions as other leases
are renewed, and that a second nephew of L. 0. Grimes, whose name I do not
know at this time, be permitted to lease one allotment, and that the balance of
the allotments contested for be leased to disinterested persons to be selected
by this ofllce. If your Office is still inclined to favor Mr. Pipher in this matter
further than indicated above, I would respectfully request that a second
inspector be detailed to make a further investigation and report upon this case
before any final action is taken, and in the end permit me to suggest further
that in the whole connection of Grimes and Pipher in this matter Grimes has
always been on the side of the Department and has done all he could to comply
with the regulations of the Interior Department, and in this case he has not had
the proper legal assistance of the United States attorney for this district, which
he was fully entitled to, and has consequently been at a great loss of time and
expense in defending his interests before the court against the actions brought
by Martin J. Bentley and Mr. Pipher. On the other hand, Mr. Pipher has
placed himself at all times in opposition, not only to this office, but also to the
regulations of the Interior Department, doing all that was possible for him to
do to have the local courts decide that a lease made by the legal guardian of an
Indian child (copy herewith inclosed and marked " Ezhbit G'') could be made
(legally) by the probate court entirely ignoring the regulations of the Secretary
of the Interior. Now, when Mr. Pipher finds that he is sure to be defeated in
this matter, he is attempting to plead Ignorance of the regulations and In my
opinion deserves no further favorable consideration whatsoever, but on the
other hand, should be ejected from the allotments for which bis leases have been
canceled and required to pay the amounts now due therefrom.
Very respectfully,
FBAZfK A. Thackxrt,
Superintendent and Special DUhurHng Agent.
Exhibit No. 70 [Goode].
Depabtmbnt or thv Intebiob,
United States Indian Service,
Uuekogee, Ind. T., October 12, 1905.
The Secbxtabt or the Interiob,
Washington, D. C.
Sib: Referring to Department letter of September 26, 1905 (Ind. Dlv., 8467),
and telegram of 3d instant bearing? on same subject, containing instructions
to investigate certain alleged Irregularities In the leasing of Indian lands under
supervision of the superintendent of the Shawnee school, Oklahoma, I have the
honor to submit the following report :
The complaints allege that one L. 0. Grimes, a resident of Harrah, Okla., is
being especially favored by the superintendent in that he Is allowed to lease
a large number of choice allotments: that the prices paid are low: tlint lie
Is not required to place the Improvements stipulated In the leases on the landn;
that he Is permitted to remove wire and other niatorlnl from allotmontH lenswl
by hira, and Is not stopped from cutting wood, posts, and saw lop:s from allot-
ments, whloli ho has persisted in doing for years, contrary to tli<» t<»riiis of his
leases and to the personal knowledge of the superintendent It is further
AWTMMaS or THX ^nwu^m KiCKjiFOO DTDLUKu 2113
aOeeBfl ttet the siSi GiteMS is a taUr aafl fensput. a
driiiJdfi^ 1&K2L Bot a fiT^Ber. tat a tpegwUftBT la leaaid laads: tkaf t3»
hstmtfd. I7 liizB are x»c«i iir«33 farmtid aaii aie man tStmred or imjxrx^vted as pemecMBf^
nqruT^z aH ^ ^rIu^ fakets aie wO kaew to ScpaisBHeBdeBt Tkadtaeiy.
FurdKr. tl^t otiier ir<4Bid-to lesBees and 9Wfd fojaoa^ atrnd ^st^neats ai>e jkt-
imrjfid t» l«e liuSSed ssi tMBgateaed kf Grimes and la^wqaad firooi the pcaioe-
alOe {^eoopiexk^ ^ ^BmsoBBiiB lieuRed <or ne^o^laited Cor. and tint €^^ak» 4c«€« aot
InTxii £ ffiiTtg'k' 'C^roe cif Mf lieaae&. Iwt tibat be fsMeiCf all asd ev^err «ae <of iJtaazL
Tike prict^^AJ fsarorftilirt mt tkSc tssK is taronelit hr lipvf J- PSpker. a farmer
mma oy^ fK*Mj«9L refiestSj Tem^^ %/epe from Wmm^ P^pAkt tavgiM a £ajai
£l«c«ut 2 W2j*f:^ Bcvn^ <^ Hairalgu ia the aaSdit of laiffiaa alktfJBmita. nose aC
wiotii is£T« i*aes ks&fiefl lij GrSaoea. It was the aliMqiir !• lease aaaae c€ tte
alkciii^mtE '.Ka-.e!<(id tij ^^ sea that hPtiUBgito 'oa t3ut pp^emt eomtrv^ear'
hstr^ l«eeB ^2f^m!U& aiioat hmT^pii aaii sinFiiaBAips aa4 tbe :
<ajaz;g:'^;g- t2irc»ii^ tike l<»eal «ovrts f'Or alKvt tvo j'«aTs. E^ac^ t
vr<D 21 1^ ^'crtE. aztd has fiaalijr ^ot Jadgjawt for iKflBeasaca of ane of the ^ras-
ttst»6 kaftiies cud a:& !s5i23Ktioa reBOmaasas^ Grilles fpom ^lOBiai^ oa tte lud.
I TiKiad t^ I&Zftd^ iD <sQ33r&ivr^. taJbBd arltb a asmbcr aC the leadii^ <dll-
£€xtf <-^ tbe :^c«'.:£jl:tt^ zz^ wfA nes^^i^tx^ •of Grsses aaii Prphrr, ateo ecnfienvd
-srrdu &i3;:ie!mr[«sidem Titadbesy aad «0Qtfis3s«d with Catted States AWxmeg'
^leed pegrtLnSlTif tb«-iie ^ssea. WMle loasj c^ tte ftaHeaBeata I heard vene
fK-cL^ictliir mid -ariiBe tii^v Is asDeflt bi^tSierBeBi a^ prei^adSQe aad kard £«e^nc
** £ re^qaJt <4 Ti»e«^ diS-iiJtSes. I lieaie*^ aa «g=miabae adjiHODeBt of the «eaii3ie
zicifrti^ can be arnr^ £i iind settiied fior all tame the tiVBbftes aov ^"g^^^^^ as
In i±ie f r«:t j-Iik* I fud jTb^ioeaDy aB tbe fiiar^es a;|a2afll Gfizoes t» t* tuae.
H« ]« a bnlrj £2^ ** l-»}xd!f^ "* and h&s aBtOBK^<Gt22ed ti% lea^tas of t^i^e ]i£ZMls
er€r fCQ^ie ii*e i^cTnnrr <5#mi»*««1 Be is »c^ a fanaer, tmx a «5iie«nlaliur- *2wa «»-
jiicTT E»eD t'.' f.trni TiH* inzidf f c«- imit BLis ie».f»ef aj>e iK<t '■nesD imprvrftd. fea-t^s
tre j«>:»r. 'jil<>i.riiir i§ i«c*: ilj->r:«Qrii}j ^ctae- aii<3 t±»*^?*' i* •evideii^ie -c-tf srat^ "•raf^e
ill TTTi>t»eT '."UTt-iiiL I fjfcv 2iiE:[jT ;.ifreie§ '■rii**r»> b*- iiikd -rot iarpe li^tiw frMXB nByt-
iDems "•'III*: ii^:'r^^tTl2j f«r 'jiietriitf •♦ asid fead tfe£l lie a basliais aiid fibLij4g:»iu5
v.K»a l?- tb*- '.rtrjiiti lrc»iL ^.niier alk^trnwra. Tlos has boea ^ciias «■ ^<«' J'tai^^
Ser^^TLJ sfcv-ii_:i§. bfiT^ l«etEi m flpera^xa aa ihre T^aa^tj for lix j^ears or 32K«pe
jrLst tM T±je jjrc»j:9-S«i.Qr cf tlie -cme bow offeratad at Hairaft SaferiDf loe ttibat
G-rimef liEf l#e*e!L coe <<f liif itrcest ciBBli^a&eTf f<«- pearE. kaTic^ asaa? lcig§ BB-sr-ed
im^ rcn^ie?. PracrScaBr £l] tiiene So^jr, ae itie aea^E^Aiocs aar. ave Stoob indifia
leafifx. Af ili*^^ £?« imo iiD^<rc'T«ziieDis a-'Cun^ aaprnViafrpg oa aaj of tiie GrSjaes
ieaBes czid a^ be b&s bad no ot^fter las(& or imi^er U Is pftasaJy evSdeal titat 3^
iaLS boen ermti:^ a ^t^ct 6&a] of tlster frosa ladSaa laifedB aad ^Ssf/osaas ^€ it
«cc2irai7 1© iifsr. Tti£i be is a hai«d drSsfcer aad frsqaeEfly beocmes lBiox5«it-t»d
and wbes In Tbai eodid^DoiD Is <gBarreEbasxie aad daaeeroas 3s seaeralij adxmruid.
Ai ibe x'?'^^^*^^'^ '^^^^^ ^ ^i>^ leases oa IT traft^ 3s liie saaoe of Mzusefii. bis
wTft l»rcr±ier. c»r ii*-;b*«ir. fizia it is waQ^Tmj&Of^ he is tsDemested ia the f-o^ar
kri.?e§ '.tf Z. T. Wr:xi;i ''.'f M'jJyju^ irbc' 25 id«i» a sg«»?rB3a!ter. I Sadlaoe a sdhed-
xii*' c'f tbeae i^it^ie*-.- rj^iiir i5e$»':T4'r5''Ci. tirr^SL *?cmf64«a'D^m- tsersiL «53C- of *!^^
jritssL Tbr t:cL2 hTrih Qt tbe Grlmef le&fteif i§ l:3as» acres; of the WrSgSn lesaao^
^SC- b.c!reE> Tbe t-^i^rt^ mmraiLl reEdaLl €€ tbe GTisnes leases is: OatiL- -C^-l-
'-«ir3 ;»rT L -.Tr- : !zi:^T:»T«2iesTs. 57^ ^jeirts jier acre. to^taJ fl.21 per acre. Of
ibe Wr-^i ieLM* • OLfcL. I^.(«5*— j^er acre : In^ffv^fsneaEtt. Si-}- «eErt5 per acre.
I'.cilL rLC-C^— ;»er t-j:re^ t:^:Tr»Ll}j. 3i ^c^iiid l« horoe 3a mja^ ttsai lias Is aH
itv.'tV'j uiif ?i;txnjirtr- • x»-.»;»iiiiii3'i!L 2C*jC<C#Cv»- aad wMi^a 1 nule of a raHrciad
;»:»sr» fjijf i^i^-er t:'T '.'-^tlzs^ It^lug sn&aeict Sa tbe laa^OTtry of 'Ca*«£. t-o» ;iay
btTJ: :e^^ tb:>r.>-:xi_T .jtitr^^d. rr i* erid«rr tStai iJbe ^S^strm^ was <dc!i»e lLj:peJy
f'.T zitrr :'Zr:*:>^ c' gyrtitg hzs&er aiid Sreipocid for iraiT^et. and iic<i fw im-
:«r.i--^:r -jjr A -Jit L^ I* ;lL±Lij ec^rrDemx-iaUBd l>3r l±ie lemis of t±ie lease.
j^A ^ ■ ti:L: i»r 6 ►e*' ii>': lirs:. -iie lan^ l^rt Mi«! 2xi«b to 4^ tbe wrrt : ft:tT be
ir'-ui? en'.'e^-^T^jT tzid 15 'gi:LTr€ii»:»iiie : tlaat he 4s>e» BtcA ftrm ibe iimd v^-j <w
11-ixr ti»r :i:;r:Te[i:H^-L§ ctijfel I'.c in Tbe licsasfs: a^.* iliLt be bitf 211 >r-^ ^UDd«
tliiA *b:c.'' r^ iSSi':^^t LUT /^le 2ii«iTL H» €i«siBe ^ linrt vbeji be •* Tiiii'-X-err ^
'jt2i»*- ii*-rr ii^ -.-ij- T.rtT Grlmtff bits l«eB tm^irtj deait ini^ ty Becti*?-, fcr^aer
1^^2111. t^a l:^^ lie; iials Itxsx eoMSeaTCffus^ is refiaj G^^am fiv tibe bad treetzneief
2114 AFFAIBS OT THB MBXIGAK KIOKAPOO INDIAKB.
accorded blm at tbe bands of Bentl^. He freely admits tbat Grimes bas im-
posed upon bim and tbat be does not intend tbat Grimes sball be given any
more leases.
Tbackery's statement concerning Pipher is tbat wblle Plpher is an excellent
farmer, witb a family of tbree grown boys, all good citizens, and that he has
good horses and a fine farming outfit generally, tbat when Pipber came here he
undertook to lease lands through Bentley, legal guardian, and ignored the
Department ; also that Pipher has " lied to bim," and tbat he has seen him
drunk. My impression of Mr. Pipher is that be Is a good citizen, honorable
and well-meaniug. He bas an excellent family and a fine farming outfit. His
reputation in the community, as well as where he formerly llred in Illinois, is
first class. He has the name of being honest, industrious, and sober. Mr.
Thuckery was the only one I beard say they ever saw Pipber or his boys
intoxicated, and they have tbe appearance of being sober, hard-working men.
Tbe trouble about the leases originated, according to Mr. Pipiier's story, from
his desiring to lease an allotment adjoining bis homestead. He went to Sui)er-
intendent Thackery and was told that be would have to lease through tbe legal
guardian. The legal guardian proved to be Bentley, and Mr. Pipher, knowing
nothing of the diflicuities between Thackery and Bentley (being a stranger in
the country and unfamiliar with lease regulations), proceeded to make a lease
through Bentley, but failed to get same approved by the Department, claiming
that he did not know such action was necessary and that he had not been sor
informed by Mr. Thackery. Herein was the beginning of 'all the present diffi-
culties. Mr. Thackery stoutly declares that he fully advised Mr. Pipher that
the approval of the Department was necessary to validate the lease, and Mr.
Pipher as stoutly declares the contrary to be true. However, immediately fol-
lowing Mr. Plpber's action, Mr. Grimes proceeded, with Mr. Thackery's assist-
ance, to have a natural guardian appointed for the minor for whom Bentiey
was the legal guardian (heir to the land Just leased to Pipher), and showed
by affidavits of various Indians that the affidavits produced by Bentley showing
tbe said minor to be without parents were untrue. This question was tried in
the local courts, resulting in a verdict for Bentley as the legal guardian.
Nevertheless Mr. Thackery went on and leased the land to Grimes, through the
natural guardian, and recommended that Pipher be forcibly ejected and
Grimes be given possession of the land. In the meantime Pipher won posses-
sion of the land in the local courts, as stated, and got the court to issue a
restraining order preventing Grimes from going on or taking possession of the
land.
In my conversation with United States Attorney Speed he informed me that
be did not consider the United States had a case against Pipher, and advised
tbat the matter be settled outside of court, if possible. He freely advises that
Mr. Grimes's allowance of leases be curtailed very materially, if not cut out
altogether, and that Mr. Pipher be given fair consideration, believing that he
(Pipher) was ignorant of the rules and that be was not clearly advised by
Thackery when he first came here.
As to the question of tbe rights of the two guardians, the " legal " or the
•* natural," it appears the courts decided in favor of the former, aitliongli the
Indians who made the affidavits on which this decision was based inform me
they made no such stiitements, and tbat tbe contrary of what the affidavits
attest is true. It is but reasonable to assume that Mr. Pipher should naturally
abide by the decision of tlie courts. He was not acquainted with departmental
practices, and the agency being 20 miles away, he could not consult with the
agent very fre<iuently. It Is alfeo but reasonable to assume that as he wanted to
lease this land and was equipped to farm it, he would go about it in the most
expeditious way to get It He had no reason to want an illegal lease or to
have trouble with bis neighbors, and his past record stiows him to be peaceable
and well diHi)08ed. He wanted a lease, and It is clear to me that he went
atx)ut to get it as he thought was the proi)er and quickest way, after due con-
sultation with the Government agent.
While Mr. Thackery and Mr. IMpher disagree as to the conversation between
them concerning the nec-essary steps to be taken for the approval of this lease,
it would seem to have been the duty of Mr. Thackery to be very explicit; also
that he should have written Mr. Pipher fully, in order that there could be no
opportunity for a misunderstanding. It also savors of spite work on the part of
Mr. Thackery against Bentley (in which Mr. Pipher is an innocent sufferer) in
mshlng the appointment of a natural guardian through and getting a lease
approved for Grimes on the land in controversy. It Is tbe apparent hatred of
APFATBS OP THE MEXIOAK KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2116
Bentley and favoritism shown Grimes on Mr. Thackery's part that has caused
so much unfavorable comment in the conmiunity, and apparently not without
some grounds. While I have no use for Bentley, and while I believe Thaclcery
to be honest and well-meaning (although frequently sadly lacking in judgment).
I can see no good reason why Mr. Pipher should be made to suffer beoause of
Bentley's and Thackery's troubles, of which he was entirely innocent
I believe Mr. Thaclcery to be honest and well-meaning, as stated, but think
this work too " heavy " for him, as suggested in my report on his agency two
and a half years ago. He is easily prejudiced, easily imposed upon, and has
not the business tact to handle an agency of this character. I believe he could
conduct a fair-sized bonded school, where there would be school business only,
and respectfully recommend he be transferred to such a position. In this
connection I would again suggest that at agencies where there is much leasing
business it would seem wise to select men of business experience, preferably
experienced clerks, to be placed in charge. It would be a saving of time and
trouble to the Department as well as to the public.
I would recommend that Mr. Pipher be. given a lease on not to exceed 160
acres (this not to bar his sons from making leases if satisfactory to the lessors),
and that in the future no lease be made to any one man in excess of 160 acres on
agricultural lands, and that the lessee be required to be a farmer and to per-
sonally farm the land leased, also to make good and permanent improvements,
fully stipulated in each lease, and to farm the land as it should be farmed,
observing the rotation of crops, fertilizing, killing of weeds, repairing of roads
and fences, etc. Indian leases generally are in wretched condition, and a thor-
ough reform movement should be inaugurated to better them.
In view of the character of L. C. Grimes and the fact that he does not farm
the lands of which he is lessee — subletting and improperly farming them, as
well as disregarding the explicit terms of the leases with reference to improve-
ments, disposal of timber, etc. — I would recommend that all leases held by him
be promptly canceled at their expiration, and that he not be allowed to lease,
sublease, or in any way occupy Indian lands in the future.
Papers forwarded me In the case are herewith returned, also schedule of
leases held by L. C. Grimes, copy of affidavit attached to leases, statements of
neighbors as to character of Grimes and Pipher.
Very respectfully,
James B. Jenkins, Inspector.
Exhibit No. 71 [Goode].
Depabtment of the Intebior,
Washinffton, January 20, 1906.
The Commissioner op Indian Affairs.
Sib: I have received and considered your communication of the 16th instant
on the report of Inspector James E. Jenkins as to the difficulty between L. J.
Pipher and L. G. Grimes concerning the leasing of certain Kickapoo Indian allot-
ments in Oklahoma.
You refer to two reports, dated, respectively, October 30, 1905, and November
13, 1905, from Superintendent Thaekery, of the Shawnee school, on the subject,
and state that after careful consideration of the same it is evident that some
action should be taken which will put a stop to the contentions of these men in
so far as they affect Indian lands.
You therefore recommend:
" 1. That both Levi J. Pipher and L. C. Grimes be prohibited from leasing
any more Indian land under the jurisdiction of the Shawnee school.
"2. That the three existing leases of L. C. Grimes be permitted to expire,
provided the improvement contracts are fully complied with, including those of
his leases which have expired.
" 3. That Mr. PIpher*s son Oscar be permitted to negotiate for leases on two
or three allotments.
"4. That W. C. Grimes be permitted to retain leases he now holds, four 80-
acre tracts, with the understanding that they may be renewed (with the consont
of the Indians thereto) under the same conditions as other I^qai^ ^x*^ \.^\^^e:>^<e^\.
2116 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
*' 5. That a second nephew of L. G. Grimes (whose name is not now known
to the superintendent) be permitted to lease one allotment.
"6. Tliat the balance of the allotments contested for be leased to disinter-
ested persons, to be selected by the superintendent's otHce.
** 7. lliat Levi J. Pipher be required to vacate all of the ludian lands he 1m
now occupying without approved leases and pay the rental due thereon."
Your said recommendations are approved, and you will take prompt steps to
have the same put into effect.
All the papers submitted with your letter are herewith returned.
Very respectfully,
Thos. Ryan,
First Assistant Secretary.
Exhibit No. 72 [Howe].
Eagle Pass, Tkx., December 7, 190 Ji,
Mr. Chesteb Howe,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Fbiend: I didn't come to Washington yet this winter, because most all
our folks are away back in the mountains killing deer. We have got plenty of
bear meat and deer meat for all winter, but no fiour and no cusko-weath. We
don't understand about it. Senator Quay went with me to Mr. Jones to see
about it. Mr. Jones said our money would be sent to us here to Eagle Pass,
but the traders from Shawnee come here with a pai)er and tell us how mucli
each one owe them and how much the agents hold for them at Shawnee. Now.
you look at this. My money at Shawnee is $50; from my camp to Shawnee
and the car fare is $45.40, both ways; Just leave me $4.()0 to eat on, and when
I get home I will have no money and nothing to eat all winter. I want you to
see the (Commissioner about It and write me a letter right away. I am waiting
for you here at Eagle Pass. The Commissioner knows me and ho do<»8 Major
Larrabee. I sat down every day in their office for a long time last spring.
From your friend,
John Mine.
Washington, D. C., December 15 WO/f,
Honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Waahingtony D, C,
Sir: I have the honor to direct your attention to the matter of iwiymont of
the amount due for the sale of Mexican Klckapoo allotments No. 115 (Pe qua
hah keth eh) to W. J. Kiggs, the amount of said sale being about $1,1(M), the
same hewing in three separate certified checks payable to the heirs, consisting of
the mother, a brother, and a sister.
This deed was approved by the honorable Secretary of the Interior, Deceml)er
10, 1904.
Under the rules now in force the beneficiaries would be paid at the rate of $10
I)er month from the Shawnee, Okla., agency.
The mother of this allottee is the oldest woman In the Kicka|K>o tribe or band,
being approximately 100 years of age. She Is practically blind, liaH to l)0 UnI
around, and is entirely helpless. Her age is Hhown by the allotment roll to
have be<»n 50 when allotted; this clearly is a mlHtake. The writer Iuih wmmi her
jierscmally a few years ago, and there Is no (piestlon as to her b(»lng a very old
woman — much older than this would make her. She and her fwm, Noten, who
cares for her, are now and have lieen for some time imst In Mexico with the
Mexican KickaiMK)s, who have had their homes there for many years. In her
enfeeble<l bondltlon Hhe could not travel from her prewmt home to Shawnw,
Okla., and unlesg the payment can be made at Blagle Pass, Tex., she will not
receive the benefits from this sale.
AFFAOB or THE UlCnrAW IBUXMBOO IXDiOSu f 117
Hue grritirtiii?TTrtitg gig tfaat i
iR^nitf %& iaorwiufffc. <jiBLiiu. JtffiAe Cran ■■m»i— if> s^ SS^Ht m^A U m , __
joiTiBeBi. If niMSf mne «&<ae »c «& ataamBOA «f tiie OMilMS^s nwigiiriwi ti» laaJbe Hk
gqgtoalBiLDy it:^ sitfiit 3s i^^* €X«s«c39e «€ peso- tfiflcrefidootsirT' juoSbH^ jwn ^ffinart
3^ jMrriiMsia '^ it&iim }««inS«iii «tf tftQ§ fimii Ane We 2ba luS Ita joii 3ma»ii i&» Ik
f^ftgr"^ Pjiii^ Tex. T^ie •dofCTiauBbcDaer ^nxs^if^ stf I MQe«t& fts €Si»ip<t5a «f» Hk
I fcr'Jiitir S±ntn ^(^^nzr «33eiit&«tt 9» tiUe* tueSL t&isii tdbe adter Ibem^. WLmM be ive pHu
T^ii^Ae ijfistj i^annieti. «:ii€ liie mle •cxai ^ira^iol}?- Ik«ff fl^^tSei fts i» Sicr: KfttsS Ms
<6««fd! vti» ^XitfjinittS >.as^ j-irScv- %«« 3^ juAfs^idfls <«tf ttM§ rmlle, ssii tSfaat Ssi^ fltxfdt
ii^$tii''jfn3aL -in^fii3€ v<^-«r% ^3ii««ii Itas^iMQ^ n^itiii ^Sut VfiiiHfifMir&efe. ssii the <
Ijibuuoeb ]€L ISML
"III*- r*!L--T ci»je ^1**01 -.Q- -at*cr infiSriftiuL! *Ii«iiBHB!tt. ^:tiBiL'» ±ii OiLbiitciiuii Tierrhfiwy.
lufi iiiiii-.ttnLtr t ii«i '.«f ii^uK^imn? #Qfe. fRaaaup tthes imftw jineBHuu mlt* liiqr a3«
fTxriiir iliti Til*?- lan^ !*(«: Taie maiiesr $» <ci«iiic:. acud iSiEi 33 5« «di» joii Tngpmiit
2 lOL 2fvtJ»:. ±L h E^sa^^Thl wvj^ iTiafi iSiHPf iiu* i«t«Q fiume uptnft^lt? nr±iai T^StisSSmt
- •- -Oi*- TIT! tr7-ttj^.cL <<f Tli««f j^w^uf fr^oii Momriftfif :wi» Iferietfe. IntL it» I «» iOL
iufiiridiui: tLli'.rnii*!!!*" iL -wriarii tiif Jtaeirt j*ij^t** -Jiif »mif fee tlif- giiffitruft joui
Ti**^ lir*- fr^.ai ili*- ii'.»iiief 11 <f liiew' 3»*tcijufr T4» ifasifiTLrti*:. its^6^ frfjOL 1^ ^fotsmSmB.
;.f «::*r-ei:L.iJ"*. if- *i:^i(i :tiifl JT 2f Titi^ &U f^r lii^OL zv ^wiu^L.
11 Till*- liicjint* ^*C Tirt- "crrrlL. i1«t ianif iif;ft H*** 11^-111(7- i'i» jaj i^tusu fujif : hSk
ijuiiiinra- tr*- '.•mut.'j 'dn** Tli*au. 3 i*«5««r!fiL37 aaSs. ?aait ti* atceirr i»t .flirwnitii to
ISLiJ: t* ILiX-t* Pi.*i». T*2L^ iiJiS iirt?trD'.?! tb*" cifBtwrf ctf Tin' liExi I'j* d^i^rr^ff 15ib»
^it-j-int '.'i"! "-i»^ 1.1.1. :j*.it** cif "duel**- ;»*«ipil!? •em ^ibimtf;. aaifl if it if 3*»*'.«BiitT?- ^
iti'.ijn 1-1 T -.riht'r r: j*?f ".ifr IiifitLiif idH ttoerfiiDy tstim^. Inn ptm ?acL «jf Swob
-:i»^ '.vr'.-vii:*r.n,--s^ -iitt Tn^ew KsuetMni^ if •A«ue tSuy- wE i»t»r^er zjw ^iSienr
lii'.»lt*7'-
r 1:1 ^- i.^^ ii.»ii':»r 1/. \*^ msst^^ivftSmBf, Csefssb Hcirt
K Tt. — Tipr 'ui iiMr ''f zi»*r B^rfler XEtMmEU Bsai3^ wm* mxeBSBms^ ix * jfffiseir
r^-'^L'T*?! \'j ii»r f«'.ai*»- Tim*" tqK' ir^at ten y^nffam f ia-n^ \*w!l v^ iii»' i?»**!«aBii
:'\i*j-.'iit. Bli.c I- •:!-:* '-rrj oifl liiesr iiilerat me Utet 5t ifc. 4l* 1^ *Lf ^ty-rVmy
.^.m^r-j^-iji «j5*. r*t'.*i:'5-iix t ;»r*mfrcig nrla^-ai t«j^* lOrilrgTr.. inn natf li.'t^tnn :!'^
:»*!r '.!^^T .1 'ju*- iir:*!ri^.*r- Tiif if urn?* few ^jtt ^aats^ ^g^pirrmitfe. ^ttjaii^^ tiifaE
5'.»r "iiir ^" 'V* I*- '.'f '♦^TTT'^tr ': Efczi*- 3^«e.
Til*?- 'ji 1 11: ix^ ^v: -rri;* il fh?"l. tlifT- -ir!!: dc* aagnMur Tirti i* 7»mj#«r jorf
r»5t*:GiL.:«j*r i: t^'.-rr^ liiBK- fmidt
2118 AFFAIBS OF THB MEXTOAK KIOKAPOO INDIAKS.
BxHXBiT No. 78 [Howe].
WiSHnraroN, D. 0., January 6, 1905.
Hon. CoMMnBioNXR of Ihdia^t AnrAiBfl,
JVoihingUm, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit for each action as may be deemed proper by
YOU the following claims for back annuities belonging to the Mexican iCickapoo
Indians now in Mexico:
Okemah $42.64
Wahskotah 81.96
Okemah 42.64
Pacota 21.80
Mah top we a 10. 65
Pah onah 10.66
Makatheah 10.66
Peshshequa 10.66
Peshshequa 10.66
Peshshequa 11.00
Peshshequa 10.65
We ta wot eta 10.65
These people desire that the checks be sent to Kasle Pass, Tex., to their addresses
as given m the application. As they can be verified from vour records here, it may
not be necessarv to transmit them to the agent at Shawnee, Okla., although I instructed
the parties to forward them there rather than here.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, Chibtkb Howb.
BxHiBiT No. 74 [Howe].
Wabhivoton, D. C, January 16, 190S,
Hon. Commissioner of Indian Affaibs,
Wajthington D, C,
Sib: I inclose herewith an affidavit of Ke ke e quah, also one of Manuel Mills,
that were forwarded to me in mail received January 14. I know nothing personallT
about the matter therein set forth, and respectfully refer the same to you for such
investigation and consideration as you may deem proper.
I have the honor to be, respectfully,
Chsbteb Howb.
Exhibit No. 76 [Howe].
Washington, D. 0., Januarif 17, 1906.
Honorable ComnssioNXB of Indian Affaibs,
WoBhingUm, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith claims of the following Mexican
Kickapoo Indians:
No. 124, November 16, 1903: Tab pah se ah $10.66
Nos. 133 and 134, November 16, 1903: Ne kah no pit and wife 21. 30
Nos. 44, 46, 47, November 16, 1903: Uah me she kah and family 31. 95
No. 148, March 21, 1902: Pah kah tuck 10.66
Nos. 85 and 86, November 16, 1902: Pah ke ne and daughter 21. 30
No. 107, December 5, 1902: Pa peah she 10.65
No. 107, November 16. 1902; Pa peah she 10.65
Nos. 145, 146, 147, 149, December 5, 1902: Okemah 42.64
No. 148, November 16, 1903: Pakakack 10.66
Nos. 152. 153, 155, 156, November 16, 1903: Wah pe che quah 42. 64
No. 62, November 16, 1903: Ma tha ko the 10.65
No. 154, November 16, 1902: Na nan e the 10.66
No. 148, December 5, 1902: Pa kah tuck 10.66
Nos. 48, 49, and 50, November 16, 1903: Tab pah she 31.95
No. 107, JMarch 21, 1902: Pa peah she 10.65
Respectfully,
GHMTaa HowB.
^""TA-ir KICKAPOO OEIIIAJBL 3119
Seb: I is«^ 'tbe iMBor i
Xb. 12L 5c»petiAe!rliu *»!: Makmlkefliaa fmft
3k& i& jB&d M. J^cvneminr 3Ju l^i^ Fk ko ik^ anfi ^ba^^iter 2LS
Sq& 4^49Lmd% S^t^pendier 2Ju IHM- P^ paik Ac laad dMgfljaaaiu Zl.»
Xa.«l li^crPHXiL^ier 1*. 3515*: MaSb^iiK' l&tt
5a. 14k ysFPBmbeir 111, 3»&fc PkiiaiilaKi Mim
JKQA.4lu4^^ss»l47,&(msBD3wlJ^SM«fti MabseibeUka^ SILK
3&a 1i2L 5:n«B2w 35k, 3J©li Itah «eg» iveai. _ m«^
5;s.6^€l.»d«;5oi«ii^eriii,91fl^ Wi^Aoti&ndiBZEaT $]L9
5;^ l^LSvmea&trn. IK*: Rikenk m«
StK. liSL IdiL l^.a&€U«^S0PBBlserlS.9fC* W j& pe <eiic -guiiu 4*ii4
JKqa. I^I^Sl ICr. and 1^ SovBB^Hr Uu Sli&ft: O^isak -t^M
5ia- XL J^cwwrniwliu 3K*fc We ti nw* f» t» _ m«
3fe. 331, JtwBBiDbBr li. J«4r Tafc jaidi «• aii l^m
%tx^X Sty^VBtbBt^^ 19&#: Peife ifce cma m«
3ta IM. ScTsmlier lie IW:*: X* aam^lirt!. m«
%m. 135>«nd35j- ^t^s-pearst^ 3^ 31C<fc PB<iQ»te *!L»
5<K. lMmn6 1t^J^ryvfan\^1^1imz S^UkiK»^.- 2Lli
Xa ICC. 5;rnigmt«' li, lil&fe Pipedkifee 3t.«
WMamrAxr C1S«^
lakoiixtf iv bftc^ ^laiuliaet dae liieiiL irioc^ sne prcKzciBd for poor txmm^tiaeiii'nL
3ba *!. Xcn«ttber 3a. 3*M: 'iina4&gia& rKi«
So. na VrniecLl^ri^ :^*t: Eiae kcim. 3-(i«
5^ a£. y:.TT»3iL.l»sr 1^ lf«:4: Ai u* tttxa "iFm im (Tom fooiLL , j-Il-K
3^ Ir. X'.'P^iLt^rliL :K4: Wejii-i^ku^ Zii9
5a Mi.- S:T*s:Ltfsr lit :.5K4:: Aiiciiftto Ki-S
Xa 1, 5:*TOn.:»grlfu lK*fc Jo^Sase i lU^ ase ^paa c&e j M.«
<,lSffiL
We bft^ xd bft^ am cud ijQjiia -
cff li* aliDiziiecr: of bar dfKieaB&d boil
I an. tzdzTzit^ i±«s i±ie flaaiie ii» 2101 bees aBoesivd, asid ite yuiye; of &ie pa^
jpgn iritf K> 7&b»-T%r ber TresHci 2»e«BsaeE.
Ty»rK.j«'ir iujt'.'iii-'ie-. » I am iLiuoaiiffd. s a 4
1 1XV9 ibsr boiuv !£; be; TBBpeiShinjg
%yiihi 4MUI SUt jF9<» J^
2120 APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN kiGKAPOO INDIANS.
BzHiBiT Na 79 [Howe].
[Bomui-GAlAn, OomardAate 7 Oomtrionlite; Mexican art goodi and Indian oiiiloiitie«.j
MusQUiz, CoAHUiLA, Bixxioo, March 19 190S.
Mr. Ghebtbb Hows, WaMngUm, D. C
Dear Snt: I want 70a to see the honormble Gommianoner of Indian Aifaira for
me. M7 father's allotment, the east half southeast qoarter section thirteen, town-
ship twelve, range one east, has been sold for $2,404 to C. J. Benson, of Shaw-
nee, Okla., and m7 mother and I reside here in Mexico. My mother is suffering
from ovarian tomor and has not been able to ride in a carriage for man7 months, and
at the best can not live lon^ and she wants her mone7 so she can have an operation
periormed to prolong her life, and I want my money because I am owing here and
want to pay my debts.
Please attend to this at once and write me when we may expect our money. The
checks ahonld come by registered letter to this place.
Kb te qua.
BxHiBiT No. 80 [Howe].
Bhawksb, Okla., May tO, 1906,
OHnm Hows, WaMhingUm^ D. C
DsAB Bib: The Kickapoo Indians in Old Mexico have written to me asking me to
communicate with you. Their lease money has not been forwarded to Eagle Pass.
They want you to speak to the Commissioner of Indian Afifairs about it and write to
them at Muzouiz, Mexico, and tell them what you think about it They think the
Secretary of tne Interior ordered their money sent there, and that Mr. Thackery is
trying to ride on the Secretary. If he is, we want vou to help kick him off. I am
going down there myself in a day or two. Mr. Thackery is having a good many
of us arreted. If he hears we are going to Mexico he has the marshal arrest
OS. Mr. Bentley makes bond for us, and we don't stav in jail lonff. The grand
jury told me the other day, "What's the matter with Thackery?^' I told him
you had better write the Commiseioner of Indian Affairs about it I was in
the war three years, the Spanish war, and got my education in Carlisle Indian
School. I make all my letters on the typewriter myself. If jou will excuse my
poor writing, I will not ask you to see about any more things this time.
Very truly, yours,
Trumpeter William Murdock,
Company F, U. S, Cavalry.
BxHiBiT No. 81 [Howe].
DsnsoN, Tsx., January f, 1905.
Frisnd Chsbter: Part of the Kickapoo interest papers complete were mailed to yon
from Eagle Pass, Tex., and balance will follow soon. Please write me, care genend
passenger agent, Missouri, Kansas and Texas, St Louis, as to the lease money, as I
will stop there on my way East Will' write you further soon.
Very respectfully, M. J. Bentlt.
BxHiBiT No. 82 [Howe].
Thb Bordeb National Bank,
Eagle Pats, Tex., May If, 1906.
Mr. Chxstsr Hows,
6fS F Street NW., Washington, D. C.
DxAR Sir: Paw kaw kah, the Mexican Kickapoo Indian residinp near Muzqniz,
Mexico, has been conferring with me about a transfer of some $3,020 of funds due
him for the sale of some land in Oklahnma. He states that it is the disposition of
the Department to hold his money without interest and pay h'uu $10 each month of
the principal. He asked us what interest we would be willing; to pay him, and we
offered him $10 a month interest on that amount and he suggested that we write to
yon aboat the matter.
AFFAIB8 OF THE MISXIOAN dOKAPOO INDIANS. 2121
We are willing to take his money and pay him $10 per month interest on same and
keep the principal intact, provided the contract is for a year or more at a time.
Paw kaw kah is willing to this, and it has occurred to us that it would be unjust to
the Indian to receive but $10 per month and be exhausting the principal, when he
might receive the same amount as interest. If you will be kind enough to write him
care of Box 39, Eagle Pass, advising him as to the status of his money, I will take
pleasure in seeing that your letter is delivered to him.
Yours, very truly,
W. A. Bonnet, Presidml.
Exhibit No. 83 [Howe].
Denison, March €6, 1906.
Friend Chester: Please push the Paw Kawkee case and I will see that you are
paid for your trouble.
I expect to arrive at Shononee to-niffht and to be in this section for about ten days
and then to return to Mexico. I think Field will be there next Sunday.
I will try to see you during the summer and will have more or less matters there
to correspond about this summer.
Very truly, M. J. Bentley.
Exhibit No. 84 [Howe].
May 17, 1905.
Honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Washingtorit D, C.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 5th instant
advising me of the reference to Mr. Thackeray, superintendent, etc., in charge at
Shawnee, Okla., of the request of Pawkawkah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee, which
was sent to me, under date of January 1, from Muzuiz, Mexico, and which, in sub-
stance, requested the immediate payment to him of the amount of $3,020 due him
for the sale of lands in Oklahoma.
Since receiving said letter, for the purxxxse of arriving at a solution of what seems
to be a definite proposition, I have corresponded with the president of the Border
National Bank, Mr. W. A. Bonnet, at Eagle Pass, Tex., and am in receipt of a com-
munication from him under which I respectfully submit to your oflSce for consider-
ation the following proposition:
As it now stands, this Mexican Kickapoo Indian is entitled to receive $10 per
month out of the principal sum held for him by Mr. Frank L. Thackeray, and each
year this principal is reduced the amount of the payment made him.
I am now advised that the Border National Bank, which is, I understand, a
thoroughly responsible institution, is willing to accept a deposit of this money under
special contract, placing the same to the credit of the Indian through the Oommis-
sioner of Indian Affairs and pay him $10 per month for the use of the same, leaving
the principal intact, provided the deposit is considered a yearly deposit. My per-
sonal suggestion would be that if this plan were adopted a contract be made and
suitable bond given by the bank for its fulfillment; that it be made for one year,
renewable for the period of five years yearly; that it provide for termination upon
the death of the beneficiary, Pawkowkah, and a payment after death to his heirs,
with the further provision that the probate proceedings, which should be at the cost
of the estate of the decedent, should be approved by the Commissioner of Indian
Affairs before any money was so paid; that the contract be subject to termination at
any time upon sixty days' notice, and that during said sixty days' the bank be not
obliged to make the ten-dollar payments.
I do not know that this disposition will meet with your approval, but I respect-
fully submit that it is an equitable one. Under it this Indian will receive his $10
per month, and no more. The rate of interest is a trifle over 4 per cent, as the pay-
ments are made month! v Ic would be exactly 4 per cent on $3,000 if paid yearlv.
The bank is willing to pay this rate of interest provided it is considered a yearly
deposit, and, I am satistied, will make a binding and business-like contract. This
bank is responsible, and is so located that the Indian can receive his money without
cost. The policy of the Department with relation to payments of this character will
not be changed, and the estate of the Indian will be conserved.
27813— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 3 \Z
2122 APFAIB8 OF THB MEXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
If this suggestion meets your approval, I shall be pleased to take the matter up
with the bank, and will further say that it should be based upon consent, in writing,
of the Indian first obtained or by his joining in the contract or agreement
I have the honor to be, reepectniUy,
Chsbteb Howb.
BzHiBiT No. 85 [Howe].
Mat 18, 1906.
Honorable Coicmi8bionbr or Indian Affaibs,
Washingtanf D (X
Sib: Referring to your letter "Accounts" of March 20, 1005, to Mr. Frank L.
Thackery, supenntendent, etc., at Shawnee, Okla., of which I had notice, as attorney
in the matter referred to uerein, I have the honor to request information as to why
the instructions with regard to the payment of individual lease moneys to Mexican
Kickapoo Indians has not been maae.
My mformation as late as the 12th instant is that no money has been paid and, as
far as the parties are concerned, that they know of no efforts being made to comply
with the decision of the honorable Secretary with regard thereto.
I have the honor to be, respectfully,
BxHiBiT No. 86 [Howe].
No. 5181.
Ths Bordbb National Bank,
Eagle Pom, Tex., May 96, 1906.
Hon. ORnTBB Hows,
WMhingUm, D. (X
DiAB Sib: Yours of 27th to hand. We trust you will succeed in getting the
Indian money transferred to us as suggested. We have no objections to makmg a
bond to secure Mr. Indian's monev.
Kindlv let us know when you hear anything further from the Ck)mmissioner of
Indian Affairs in reference to this.
Yours, very truly, W. A. Bonnbt, Fretident.
BxHiBiT No. 87 [Howe].
JuNS 3, 1905.
Honorable Commisbioneb or Indian Affaibs,
Washington, D, C.
Sib: I have the honor to again direct your attention to the fact that I am in receipt
of several letters, stating that no payments have been made of lease moneys to the
Mexican Kickapoo Indians, in Mexico, by Mr. Frank H. Thackery, superintendent,
etc., in charse, as directed by your letter'" accounts" of March 20, 1905.
This is undoubtediv due to a press of business at the agency, or to causes beyond
the control of Mr. Tnackery, but it is desirable from everv standpoint that these
matters should be closed during the present month, as the fiscal year ends June 30;
and, in order that I may be advised as to the cause of delay, and take proper steps
to correct the same, if necessary, I herewith inclose $1 to pay cost of telegraphic com-
munication, should you deem is proper to endeavor to ascertain the cause by wire.
I have the honor to be, respectfully,
Ghxbter Hows.
Exhibit No. 88 [Howe].
Before the honorable Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D. 0.
In the matier of the application of certain Mexican Kickapoo Indiana for the payment of
lease moneys due on leasee of their individual cUlotmenU in OHlahoma.
Appbau
Oomea now Chester Howe, as attorney for Okemah and family of eight per^oD^.
Ah huh she, Pah jmh xnena Ju> the, of Noimiento, Mexico; W^ah po che t|iia a.i
AFFAflBS or XHK MEXiCAX WOCKJkFOO ISHUSm. 3133
Bt« %it €KM is» pal xsd SkubS^* fif MbnagnaaK. Ifcsacioc ladl far -onbos < ^~
mk6sr sdaaa- \Kaie^ •dKk- iMntxm&er iSL li«ML wahMiM v^ prcni&t ior 3sj# ^mrsMtaA
^ xn^riditty j^att- mctEKn-f la sznr |cnsit •ai&«r tftom wawmet^ OiLai^ and at ^rumd
Ssbt'.aid. TiMt ii.o -ffbiuf Ocrtrm ifflr.cnar cg Isdau ^fiairPF In* wwwi «f im «cpgr «i
-goHRaaL iim liias i^ ctEL'j^v^ d! '^sjt Firsi SikKSaraiiL £iuLk ki EttjefW- i^^Mfe. 't«z^ vsgnld
CitaEj;^o& tmiiiC' i^ ]''t'^iK7if B2«d like )&nauL:L cstluiuih- viiv «;;3r:i:z:jc lijftxxL iokC jfceoi
iSaa sdBcj ctf liiit ci**^^.*- » hljc n-.n tie jT'.ijitrjT dtilrrw'Hd: luik'^ TKnaiut upotlIc tee
flft \'. litf- aciiiizr:* i:r -p tliiL "lit^T" ▼•«rt c.TiiiJ-iu'*"
Idf ih'.n* :**r'>^ -Euc ^T::i»^riiiEid*^-: Tnw.juvj ixi* ii*T^ff bwt jc £iip»: Bhe. liai
i* cio i»cc JZLi'jir'ijCkr cut ij*r liiti*- t^r ifcir.* jtkil -wLi'-i i; \*» sst cifttLJ:c^ lOiC Ite
C
Tilt zsezJub e: T^i*- ?»» et* r*c»TrA-.»it- *«Li3»|r in^nrtra-.cK. ano vatud j«t 'die
ftl} TiiiHr ui ^rpifr} 'Ori'.x irtvTL tii: V -.i-i-i-r r7rLii*r r*!:ii*»*^ t: Ci*'_-T«r ii '.di'i'/i v»«ny
tuiiw ii3«ii»»«»" ij:»THfr ¥ 'xlxZ r^irnirt. Tii*7 ijii-t ii mIi*- ^mBi a*ah.l -irhiL T±ie«t lajdaui^
Jzf:^.. Tii*^ ii:>ij-^n..*.u*: '..TiiL.:. i««jL-.o*r "err^i it *.»*-.iieT5::«r -cc Mil 111 ' g/iiagt ICit M«s>
OBL ijieiit.:o: lii: ;ii.-;r tiii: •»rir'-- rti*r»fi '>n :c -^i**- KwnftSi? c€ ll*Ti'j^^- la klj •dniifc,
CTuiactiit^ v**^ lie:*"."' •: .c :.'•* r^r*.* I'. T*fcixssz. 31 flKJ- fcepxiiuit iL jctj maiixier
irainii'.tL till *-»;—.: 1 b:;u»r^iiit^i'L
2124 AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
BsiBr IN SuppoBT OF Appeal.
In the year 1824 the Kickapoo Indians m company with the Shawnee Indiana,
presented themselves to the alcalde of the city of Austin, in the then Republic of
Mexico, to whom thev stated that they were being crowded and pursued by the
Anfflo-Saxon race in the North, and that they desired to aci^uire land and a home
with the Mexican people. This alcalde took up the matter with his superior officer,
the governor, representing to him that the Shawnees and those affiliatmg with them
were both ** entertaining and industrious," and he believed that if they were siven
some territory to the north of the capital, which was often in those days raidea and
harassed bv the attacks of the Wacos, Comanches, and other hostile and refractory
Indians, who then lived in and infested that region, they would be a protection to
the capital.
The King of Spain, Charles III, made a concession to these Indians, granting to
them all that tract of countrv lying north of where the San Antonio road crossed the
San An^elo River, the boundary to continue up said river to its source, then east to
the Sabme River, and down said river to the crossing of the San Antonio road, and,
accordingly, the Kickapoos, Shawnees, and some Cherokees and Dela wares who
affiliated with them, settled uppn this tract, where they resided from about the year
1825 to the time of the cessation in 1842, at which time the Indians had one per-
manent village on this tract containing more than 700 inhabitants.
The provisional government of Texas, during the time it was a Republic, through
its duly appointed commissioners, made a treaty with these Indians, wherein this
grant to them was ratitied. Afterwards a second treaty was made, whereby the
Republic of Texas acquired this tract, and the Indians were, by concent and at the
expense of the State, moved to another grant of land, 40 miles square, northwest
of the present capital of Texas, which is known and designated m the annals of
Texas as a service grant. The Indians occupied this tract and the plains of wentem
Texas until the time of the agitation immediately preceding the civil war. When
Qen. Sam Houston counseled with the Indians and persuaded them to move out of
the State of Texas, he advised them there was going to l>e war and that they had
better move into the Indian Territory, where they would be less liable to molesta-
tion, and, accordingly-, the Indians moved. Some settknl on the Little Red River,
in southwestern Indian Territorv, and the Shawnees and Kickapoos settled farther
north. The Shawnees occupied the country along Little River, which is now in
Pottawatomie County, Okla., and the Kickapoos occupied the country along the
North Canadian River and on Squirrel Creek, between the present cities of Shawnee,
Tecumseh, and Oklahoma.
The acute agitation growing out of the civil war proved exceedingly annoying
to these wild Indians. First the North and then the South appealed to the
Indians to t^ike sides with them. The Shawnees, who were their ueighl)or8 on
the south, were loyal to the United States. They removed to Walnut, Kans.,
where the able-l)odied members of the tribe enlisted and became part of the
Fourteenth Kansas Cavalry. The Seminoles, who occupied the country immediately
to the east, were owners of slaves and naturally sympathized with the South. Chief
Big Georjyje, of the Kickapoos, who in history should he known as their Tecumseh,
said to his people, ** We do not understand what these white people are wanting to
fight about; none of them have injured us, and whv should we stain our hands with
their blood? We will leave and go to the wilds of l*exas, and take no part in this."
And, accordingly, the Kickapoos, in the early fall of 1862, broke camp and started
south, a thou>«and strong, their objective point Iwing the Little Concho River, Tom
Green County, Tex. In I)eceml)er of that year they arrived at the ranch of William
Tankersly, which is 2 n iU*H fn)ni the prest^nt town of Knickerbocker, Tex.
Mr. Tankersly, who »hoii^rh very old is still living, and is prominently known in
Texa»<, Htatvs that the Kit ka)>oos appeared at his ranch, having with them a large
herd of hon^es, in the I'arly v\ inter ol 18()2. Though alone at his home, he states that
he invited the Kickapoon to camp, which they did, getting water from his well to
prepare dinner, and that he sold them such provisions as he could hpare. He had
known many of them years before; they had asi«ihte<i him in recovering? ntock that
had been stolen from him by the Comanches and other thieving IndiaiiH who then
roamed over the great plains of Texas. He says he invitt d them to make a perma-
nent camp on his i)OS8essions on the river, 4 miles from his home, and that after
dinner they proceeded to the place designated by him. The next day a large <'(>m-
pany of Conie<lerat<* cavalry appeared at his place inqiiiring for the Ki'ckapoos. He
assured them that they need not be concerned about the Kickapoos, that they were
AJfVAtBS OF THE HBXICAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAKS. 2125
friendly and would, during the war, be a protection to him and the neighboring
ranchmen against tne raids of other hostile Indians who had become emboldenea
because of the absence of so many of the Texans, who were absent on account of tiiis
war. To this the commanding officer replied that the Kickapoos had many fine
hoxBes which interested him more and was of more value to the Confederacy than
Indian friendship, and he proceeded to pursue and attack the Kickapoos. When
the Indians saw the cavalry approaching they sent forward an old buck bearing a
white flag and accompanied by an old squaw on either side. As soon as the cavadry
came within range this trio was ruthlessly shot down and the main camp chai^ged
upon. Though not anticipating this charge, the Indians offered stubborn resistance,
and sixteen cavalrymen fell fi^m their horses mortally wounded, and the cavalry
retreated for reinforcements and did not venture to return for their dead for two
days. The Kickapoos hastened to break camp and started for Mexico, thinking that
Texas had declared war upon them, and the path of death they left behind them is
a matter of 'Texas history. They forded the Kio Grande River and entered Mexico
at the north end of the Sierra del Carmia Range at what is known as the great bend
of the Rio Grande River. They followed down this range far into the State Coa-
huila, finally taking up their home at Nacimiento.
The whole region around this place was then occupied by the fierce and murder-
ous Lipans, Apaches, and Comanchee, who had driven the Mexican population
entirely out of the northern part of the state as far south as the city of Mhzquiz,
Mexico.
The state and federal authorities welcomed these Indians, because they were a
protection to the peaceful native population of the country, and President Juarez
made a service erant to them and a treaty with them, by the terms of which the
Kickapoos a^ed to and did render the Mexican army valuable service in extermi-
nating the Lipans and in subduing and driving the Comanchee beyond the borders
of Mexico.
Thus it will be seen that these Indians from 1824 to 1874, a period of fifty years,
had lived practically all their lives either in Texas, when it was a part of Mexico, or
in the present Republia As a matter of fact, all the Kickapoo Indians of the age of
twenty years or over at the time of the opening of their land in Oklahoma were
native-lx>m Mexicans. Even file Jim, the last chief of the Shawnees and the grand-
son of Tecumseh, was bom on me Aiigelo River in what was then Mexico. By
reason of their nativity and of race similarity and their acquisition of the Mexican
language these Indians naturally considered Mexico as their home.
^r several years after the civil war thev continued to raid the country east of the
Rio Grande River, stealing lar^e herds of horses and cattle from Texans, which thev
drove across the Rio Grande River, where they were secure with their plunder. A
considerable renegade element of Mexicans operated with and encouraged them
in this, and they were a constant source of annoyance and danger to the border
ranchmen of Texas.
The cavalry stationed at Fort Bracket and Fort Stockton were kept almost con-
stantly employed in pursuing these and the numerous other Mexican Indians, who
then preyed upon the west Texas ranchmen. All they could do was to follow the
Indians to the Rio Grande River, and the Indian, once on the other side, was immune
from furtherpursuit.
Major McKenzie, then in charge of the cavalry at Fort Bracket, became so exas-
perated by his failure to check these Indians that, without instructions from the
War Department, and in total disregard of international law, he headed his cavalry
across the Rio Grande River, and followed the Indians through one of the most
mgeed and mountainous countries on the American Continent, to the Kickapoo
rendezvous, 150 miles in the interior of Mexico, where he shot down and killed the
Indians who resisted, capturing the women and children, and all who would submit
to capture, and retumea them, as prisoners of war, to the American side. It so
happened, at the time of this McKenzie raid, that a very considerable number of
the male adults of the tribe were absent on a hunting and raiding expedition, and
upon their return^ where the wife and all the children had been taken, the father
followed and umted with his family, where they were temporarily held at San
Antonio, Tex.
From the time of the raid until the military authorities landed the Kickapoos, as
prisoners of war, in what later, by Executive order, became known as the Kickapoo
country, about one year of time was consumed. The records of the war depart-
ment of Mexico, which were made on account of the international agitation growing
out of the McKenzie raid, show that 176 Indians escaped capture by the American
military and remained in Mexico.
2126 A7FAIB8 OF THB BiBZIOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAK8.
In 1876 the reeervation of the Kickapoos In Oklahoma was set aside for them by
Executive order. Between that time and 1800 they maintained communication
with their relatives in MexicOi but the existing extent of the same is unknown to
the writer; the fact is, however, true. In 1890 all of the older Kickapoos in Okla-
homa spoke the Spanish or Mexican language, while none of them could speak
English.
In 1891 the Jerome Ck)mmis8ion went to the Kickapoo Reservation, in Oklahoma,
for the purpose of negotiating a treaty for the purchase of their surplus lands, and
providing for the allotments of Indians. A council was held, and at that council
one man voted in favor of the treaty and every otiier vote was against it. The Kick-
apoos refused to consider any question as to the sale of their lands or the allotting of
the same. Another council was held and the Indians stated that the vote stood as
before, whereupon a treaty was prepared and, on August 16, 1891, two delegates,
whose names are not correctly npelled, were appointed to accompany a white man
by the name of John T. Hill to Washington. The instructions given to this delega-
tion were to make no sale of lands, and they were closed at a small meeting held at
the Kickapoo village. In 27 Statutes, 659, appears what purports to be an authori-
zation signed by the adult males of the tribe. As a matter of fact the names attached
are, with very few exceptions, names of parties who either did not exist or who can not
be identified on the allotment rolls since made. A few can be, and those few have
always insisted upon the instructions issued to the delegates at that meeting. Nbt
only this, the delegates themselves insisted that they never knowingly made an
agreement providing for the allotment of their lands.
This has nothing to do with the question at issue, but it shows the understanding
of the Indians and accounts for their subsequent actions.
In 1895 the snrplus lands of the Kickapoo country were opened to homestead
entry and settlement, and this was followed by the immediate destruction of all the
game in that country. Prior to that time there had been a reasonable quantity of
deer and wild turkey, but within three months the white settlers killed everything
of this character.
The Kickapoos steadily refused to recognize the legality of the treaty or the allot-
ments. They lived in their village, near what is now Wellston, Okla.^ and at about
that time received visits from some of the Mexican Kickapoos residmg in Mexico,
and commenced the agitation for the removal to that country.
In 1898 i)ermi88ion was granted by the Indian OfRoe for a number of Kickapoos
to visit their friends in Mexico, ana, in fact, from that time until 1904 there was
practically no time when some portion of those residing in Oklahoma were not in
Mexico, or those residing in Mexico in Oklahoma, the afHliation of the two branchet
seeming to be complete.
On September 26, 1900. the Indian Office, in the case of Okemah, gave the direc-
tions found in the following letter. (See letter Book 51, page 401. )
Dbi*artment op the Interior,
Office or Indian Affairs,
WcuhingtoUf D, C., September 96, 1900.
IfABTiN J. Bentlbt, Esq.,
Special U, S, Indian Agent,
In Charge of Mexican KickapooBf Shawnee, Ohio,
Sib: This Office is in receipt of your communication of the 17th instant, in which
you state that a Mexican Kicxapoo Indian, Okemah, has applied to you for himself,
wife, and four children to remove to Mexico to live, for the reasnn that his father-
in-law, a Kickapoo Indian, living near Kickapoo Town, in Mexico, has lately died
and left him a considerable estate there; that under permission from this Office some
two years ago this applicant visited Mexico, and is thoroughly familiar with the
estate and surroundings, and says that the advantages that would accrue to him
would be far more advantageous than the annuity he now receives from the United
States; that should he not remove he would not receive any rent from his estate in
Mexico; that he can rent the allotments of himself and minor children in Oklahoma
foV a cx)nsiderable sum; that in your opinion his request should be granted, as you
personally know that the reasons he gives are correct, as you, yourself, some years
ago, went to Mexico, and became acquainted with the estate he mherited.
In reply, you are advised that, in view of the statements made by you, it would
seem that this Kickapoo Indian, who has inherited some property in Mexico, might,
with his family, be allowed to go there and live, this Office has no objection.
W. M. W. CB.)
Very respectfnllyi W. A. Johmm, Oommii8i<mer.
ATFAUB or THK WKXITAT KiCKAFDO DTDUSaL 2127
-out -Jfc-cTLasBBBu" Tier ^
fnin iiidT *23xii^ TTirr." l<wiffn.Tier 11^4. vsjepi -wMt & 'fftnjLsinr.ng ^sLoeiaearfL ^ K5ek'
iaa *>:T»nrniHir: v. "Eii-jfe -wjii: •a.Tut^ rr:»2. *Aa^:ma> :*«6*r:3<r isi^il it juan* laai
JUKI! i'jt^c ^J-'-fizn -mit^sr*: fc**«'ja^» ^«r:i::rr^i v. r^mnri «iii- BLifwrjiwidrr.. cy 4it^
'»^!f* ii»iii 2i:c -: larnt *«'.-:a-^ r^riiJ vr^ *±j:«t vij: ranacKft zx •31* dsn^ -.«l Tia:; ?»-
leBi6»sr: 7^:a»'jt*r7 T^$\rviZ m bt iil -wTSii ;»gKrt v. Maflat^BXtf i«Tair :««a :c-2«sii
Tii'je^ Zzttjjtza msrrzT^i tZM-xjit*^ n'r^jt, icut yxigreni^ "v: '±jec' *»«> iZii bk^iSsfif
Ife. wins*: aaut m ^uwiriri^ «sii tpXjT--^ «fli»7 scksl sxii jeees -sf 'Liitir rtui^-r<«i^
W* i«3» ffC i:r±. 121* i_ar--.r7 '.t "UiMr KiPxiTagr '^icnzrx, TTfSagrff s: j»mri- 2X trier
Fran, ta****^ Z-jtrtr-jTa. niiir> - -.az. *st*z. -* «*ki tsas V-i*^^ Tjrz^fi za^^n^jw yOsK-
ITn^ t >*^*^ji .'Zii.'Li:'- ▼ ;»rLi J :c k. •♦^frwtr oxibr- "±1*7- fl:;.»ait:_7 ?«Mat»t ■^iinsr !■■>
lait - z-'-*fi •Cin** -7 K.-!aJj#t frtouii* -^li:. imt jo. z^^sn-r zr^t-jitt ir swTcmjr "ss^fflr
tsfls: ib'.T: j-»** ii-.c 'jia:ix£«r Vj*- zir'svsLr. \fjixt::zt'jm^ ix'x piiabfr'aii* rr»E -j:T»r-:rntffln ^
Tiiiti*r>-'i.-jt uijI i;c»^"a.*^'Li*»>ifc!n "jiiK: •i»*r-+ » 3i't:zir.-.:r>»*i>'.ca^ iz. "Liit writ c -.t izjt
''Iijr.^', T*ur*5* \&':ii.if. Z^ -rvrj iia-.r. :r --ii*u -.tScsL. :off:2iUL zufnrwf & itr htjaiOf-
»2-ELi n 1-iit ;ii*r. tr^ETZi*?!! 2:1 .r» *r'jhiry!r. »K:4*#t. 'ass "int 6": -=»»»: ^as: ^11*7 Jiarr^
vcjry.rr^s^i v. r. ' - M-»:x..!t:. -,: t^sL*^ l^ .itiiift :z. Cft^tii .•v-o. 1^. » ^.11*21 *x^#*".Vfi v.
7Vi\rz. T"¥-jy»- *ai'.n 7-yEr v. Siiiii.iji**r. ''.'C-it ic a *a:;:«ii*^ .c aL-r'.Jnf iis» -.c |*f ol
•"Bb'ji *•* : k*ii ii' fr:»rL i.jf '^y^riy *:r:*=^-:*?*i*. jz. '.'^tt*r "i '.I'litts |rf<l i**!" j^str TfsuL
Tn£^»*: EL 5 ':r>:.l*«» T.llH H. EI7 'XIZTJI IlL.-T '.r t:LT '.dl.'.^ ".♦.n Jl iS-J -.rj^ssn/oi Zt'.fjmt.
WX2 acr -r*«Hi-* z&jlczji ii»'.i.r^.j**. '.;:ri.j:- -vrsii'.iin IL17 f«rj-.r^ 3i*r!i:'a^ *3B-.rL tt^-T-^nt &
■¥17 '^ ^^- *• r-»*jt:it* 17 ¥1.1111 -..u* |^». ':it7X'-ti* ¥V. .A.'.zrrM. 7 21-4CI' ut "2aJii»^ti.rr^
V. -Jiij* nar: v' i :*»-n^": «i*C7 ^: -jii* t:;kt zanr:zig zzj^ «cni*:. «r. «£ -acieat :c &.*#:«:
I.!' •»«n* Jl lft.l.C 'Z l-l.-:!**:.
Tian vnt 'jtrzi . :i.'- 7 - . -j:^ >-. -r ^ri." t*!ir: jit 6*a--_-jr "rrsi ra -vir-Jt
ITii* •:«'^»*!!T3j'ii fc» *-: 1:11*1 £.* r r.rKh* 2r.^:z:ir ": ":.i*t imcir >Ecs»'.n. rxi^^¥^ 17 S^;»»ri3f-
vaiti^a- T'lifatit^r-i •:«'.•»* ii r i-r:#»a^ fnr:»iir-7 -'' "^ zxxzt^k «ct«^ :c 4:17 :=aa. Tim "ar
v,:3i -jfcirjiijr '-owo^^w -i *ii_:* 'xnnnry. A r^&^TBii!* v. iiH Js&ir irll «ii:'v -..i:t: lit.
i:*' v.rni^ r*a:*:»i. -.-.^K^'.r.-r-i "-: t pi7T:j«ir: ziAtirt- ":zjr:inci "Si**- Fzr?r ^i«;ii:riii^ i»Kix i€
JLATit rT*»ft. tui \r.^ V-t*: r*?-** -,n :if -..lit >Tr-«r :c iiit ij'-Citcfc'.ut •l-'oizuBHiiciir '.c I***-
•j*rj: v^r i^l 1 K4. u i.--.>r:i'~ :-.».- 'jl^. Ijiif a.:.'*. ▼* «t'.ni'^i frun thjt 2jkix«t Itr^'ja-.rT
■-lit wyzr^^st :t —j^ .'■?:. •»"^ -.r izj:«Lii*r 'alix t:ii: "±it 5c»-t»sr 5'ina:ca^ Boz^c uni
jL. -a i*»r*i-ji-.: hTM-zt^t tziz ■»* •«p:#w:fiJ.7 .-^n*? v "iit «Kn*t nt i y.rT^x:ij lasa-ji
irwiL 1. r.ffl -irT'W'^ ;*r:7 ^iii:-^ . -jt "iiiit ziizr-'J'jt.zC^ zt Mr. r!:jvjt*r7 :r nz^j \tXMse
!liiw:i»*5S»- '•ii«".'»-ju»
JLf 1:1 . .:*^T_*.'»i :r *'i.' f.:n*r»iiiyt - ir .rj^flir* ▼» rwc««tz:i-L7 Zzr*i^, j'.rjr itvjl-
iBSiiiL ifi»it>« j& z^Lr^fnt r-.i: ;t^i>i 17 -iicxijft A -tniT; 2r '^ I Mil I ii^* cBcck ;r vuTSi^LS iar
2128 AFFAIBS OF THB MBXICAK KIOKAPOO IKDIANS.
their annuities, and said check is transmitted through the mail. While the honor-
able Commissioner informs us that this has nothing to do with the case at bar, we
direct attention to it as showing either the utter lack of business methods on the
part of the Treasury Department, for which they should be severely censured, or
else the extraordinary and unnecessary caution of the superintendent, who is afraid
of incurring liability if he should follow either the same or any other method by
which these Indians could receive their money without paying it out in railroad fare.
Superintendent Thackery reports that he is reliably informed that all of these
Indians are about to return to Oklahoma. The source of that information is not
^ven, and we therefore can not deny that he nas been so informed, but for the
mformation of the reviewing officers, through the courtesy of the Indian Office, we
respectfully refer to the letter of Rev. Francisco De P. Andres, the Catholic
father in charge of the parish at Muzquiz, within which parish the Indians are
located, and whose source of information can not be questioned, nor whose disinter-
ested motives will not be denied. Copy of this letter is hereunto attached and
marked ''Exhibit B.'' The original is on file in the office of the Commissioner of
Indian Affairs, under date of January 17, 1905.
It is a fact which can not be denied that between thirty and forty of these people,
at the time their semi annual rents were due, in the month of Julv, 1904, finding tnat
tJiey could not get them in any other way, came to Shawnee, Okla., for the purpose
of securing the payment.
It is a further fact, which an investigation will show, that in order to pay their
fare they sent to the trader, borrowed the money at a prohibitive rate of interest,
and that after this money was returned they did not have enough left to return to
Mexico. Their allotments were all leased, they had no ground in cultivation, nothing
to stay in Oklahoma for, except to await another payment, and, in the meantime, in
order to live, they practically pledged this payment for credit at the trader's, and in
this manner are learning thrift, civilization, and the white man's ways by serving on
the chain gang on the streets of Shawnee, Okla.
This picture may seem to be overdrawn; without any bitterness and without any
reflection on anyone, it is stated because it is true.
If anyone is to be punished for any wrong committed in the past, we respectfully
urge that it may be the guilty parties, whoever they may be. Under the historical
hcta which we have cited these Indians are clearly free Irom blame or the commis-
sion of any crime. They made a legal contract for the rental of their lands; the agent
receives the money for tnem. He can not be expected to go to the individual exp^ense
of traveling across the Indian Territory and Texas to pay this money, and there is no
necessity of his so doing. If he requires a receipt before the payment is made, the
Indians are willing and glad to comply with that requirement; if he requires an affi-
davit from a party capable of interpreting, they are willing to furnish such affidavit
The officers of the bank are willing to furnish m addition an attestation of identity,
because they require identification prior to cashing any check. Every safeguard,
every precaution which prudence would require, can be followed literally, and when
this is done the reason of the rule requiring this elpensive railroad trip is not
apparent.
It should be borne in mind that these funds are not tribal funds; that they belong
to the individual; and it is just as bad for the agent to refuse to pay this money as it
would be for the lessee to refuse payment, as far as the Indian is concerned. It forces
him to ppend it in an improper way; it contributes nothins to his happiness or sup-
port; it does not teach him to be honest; it does not cause him to hold in still higher
regard the Government of the United States; it does not cause him to respect the con-
stituted authorities, and, from a moral standpoint, is wrong.
The action of the Mexican Government should properly be shown by certified coi>ies
of the decree, but these Indians are without money and can not pay for securing it.
The statements made herein however, can not and will not be contradicted, and
the historical statements can be proven by the correspondence in the State Depart-
ment, the records of the Republic of Mexico, and the records of the Department of
the Interior.
The appellants in this case are willing to offer the suggestion that in order to pro-
tect Superintendent Thackery they will sign duplicate receipts, attached thereto, and
interpreter's affidavits, and be identified by two persons under oath, and return the
same to him. If he further desires to do so he may send with each check or draft a
descriptive letter statinj? the sex of the payee, the age as shown by the roll, and
that l>efore the check is cashed or the draft delivered the officers of the bank, in
their official capacity, shall indorse thereon the fact that the payee has l>een natia-
factorily identined and return this to him for his future protection; and, in addition to
this, to make a general offer to comply with any requirement, no matter how unrein
sonable, provid^ it will satisfy the disbursing officer.
AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXICAK KIOKAPOO IHDIAK6. 9120
We have no choice of banks in this matter. The notary public in the Border
National Bank has recently had occasion to see and meet all of these people in mak-
ing out claims for their annuities. For this reason, and for the further reason that the
President, in his letter, shows a commendable desire to assist them and a spirit of
fairness toward them, it is respectfnlly requested that payments be made through
this bank, particularly in view of the fact that Superintendent Thackery objects to
the First National Bank.
In closing this matter, we respectfully suggest that under the showing made, the
reason for Superintendent Thackery's objection having failed, that the objection
should no longer be considered.
That these people do not intend to return to Oklahoma; and, even if they did, it
would make no aifference, and would not be any excuse for the nonpayment of
money due them as individuals while they still remained in Mexico.
That if it were true that thev had been ordered out of the Republic of Mexico
(which is not a fact) they would certainly need this money to enable them to return
to Oklahoma or to furnish them with food, and it would still not be an excuse or
a reason for a failure to pay the same.
That the superintendent receives this money the same as any agent collects rent,
so far as his relations to the Indians are concerned, and if he prefers and will do so,
or if the Department will permit him to do so, and he will deposit this money to the
credit of the Indians at a local bank at Shawnee, subject to the return to him of
duplicate receipts, properly signed, carefully witnessed, thoroughly and completely
identified, then, in that case, the appellants will gladly furnish all that can he
required.
In appealing this case there is no purpose other than to seek to correct an error
committed under a misapprehension of facts by the Indian Office; with the disa-
greements which the superintendents at Shawnee may have had in the past we have
nothing to do. The proposition is a plain one, the error an apparent one, and with
full faith in the justice of the Department of the Interior, its officers and agents, ^e
cause of these people is submitted.
Attached to our original letter, upon which the decision of the honorable Com-
missioner was render^, was a list showing that the semiannual payments of rents,
due a large number of these people, was $30 each; to a number of others, $40 and
$50. An examination of this will show that they could not possibly pay their
expenses to Shawnee and have anything left
Respectfully submitted.
Exhibit No. 89 [Howe].
Thb Border National Bank,
Eagle Pass, Tex., June IS, 1906,
Hon. Chbeter Howe, Woiihington, D. C.
Dear Sir: Yours of 7th to hand. •We have just received a telegram from Mexico
saying Mr. Thackery would have a man here on the 15th, 16th, and 17th to pay the
Indians lease money, so I fear it will not come through us. If the money is paid by
us we will try and get the commission you mention, but if Mr. Thackery's man does
the paying I do not see how we can do so. We will do the best we can for you.
Mr. jBentley left here for Oklahoma about two hours before we got the telegram
from Mexico.
Yours, very truly W. A. Bonnet.
BzHiBiT Na 90 [Howe].
June 17, 1905.
Honorable Commissioner General Land Office,
WcahingUm, 2>. C
Sir: Through my attorney, Chester Howe, I hand you herewith mv application
for patent as per affidavit hereto attached. When patent shall issue please be kind
enough to send same to me care the Border National Bank, this city.
Very respectfully,
0 KE MAfi (his X mark).
Witnesses:
\ Roman Galan.
V Jaoobo Lonci.
2180 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
BxHiBiT No. 91 [Howe].
JuNB 17, 1905.
Honorable Commissioner General Land Office,
WashingUmy D. C,
Sir: Through Mr. Chester Howe, my attorney, I hand you herewith my applica-
tion for patent, as per affidavit hereto attached. When the patent shall issue please
be kind enough to send same to me, care the Border National Bank, this city.
Very respectfully,
Tha the gna (her x mark).
Witnesses:
Roman Gulard,
Jacobs Long.
Exhibit No. 02 [Howe].
June 26, 1905.
Honorable Commissioner General Land Office,
Washington, D. C.
Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith affidavit of Thithequa, Mexican Kickapoo
allottee No. 271, also Okema H. Wah nah ke tha lah No. 250. These parties apply
for the issuance of a patent in fee simple, under the provisions of the act of Congress
of March 3, 1905, authorizing the same in compliance with their direction I respect-
fully request that the patents be sent to them in care of the Border National Bank,
Eagle Pass, Tex.
I have the honor to be, respectfully, CfinnER Howe.
Affidavits on file in Indian Office.
Exhibit No. ^ [Howe].
October 31, 1905.
Honorable Commissioner op Indian Affairs,
Washington, D. C.
Sir: Several months ago, in fact last spring, I had the honor to represent a num-
ber of Mexican Kickapoo Indians residing in Mexico, who had various sums of
money clue them on leases, arising out of the income from their allotments situated
in Pottawatomie Count v, Okla., and in the proceedings with relation thereto this
money was ordered paia to the Indians through the Border National Bank at Eaf^le
Pftss, Tex. Since that time, at various times, these parties have continued to write
to me, protesting against the delay and asserting that the money has not been paid.
On my return from a trip away I find, under date of October 7, a letter from
Jim Deer, who is one of the most intelligent of Xhese Indians, and I inclose the letter
to you for your information in regard to the same. I am informed through this let-
ter, and from other sources, that there has been pendin^j for some time a general
investigation with regard to these Indians, and as far as that investigation is concerned
I do not desire to interfere with it, or take any part in it, or in any way request
action which would prevent it, but I can not see how it, the question of the payment
of that money to these i>eople, affects the matter in any way.
This is simply a matter in which the money is owing to the individual Indian; in
fact, it is his own money and he needs it, and it ought to Ix* imid to him As far as
I am personally concerned, I do not care what method is adopte<l for that pavment.
The Indians seem to want to be paid through the Border National Bank, ancl this is
the Secretary's onier. If there is any better method I would like to see it adopted.
If there is any obje<*tion to this method I would be pleased to l)e informed of it, and
I should certainly not innist u|)on it.
I trust this matter will receive immediate consideration. These people waited a
long time for that which l)elonged to them, and it does not tend to increase the respect
or tne confidence which they nave, or which they fail to have, in the officials of the
United States by withholding money which they clearly understand is theirs.
This latter statement is not made in criticism of any official, but with a desire to
direct attention to the situation as it now exists. If my information from these people
as to this money is incorrect, then of c*ourse no attention should be paid to the com-
munication.
I have the honor to be, respectfully,
Chester Hows.
AlfFAIBS OF THE MSllOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAKS. 2181
BxHiBiT No. 94 [Howe].
The Border National Bank,
Eagle Pass, Tex., October 7, 1906,
Chester Howe, Washington, D. C,
Dear Sir: Your promise don't seem to hold out about the lease money. Mr.
Dickson came here in July and brought a little money. He had Mr. Bentley send
out and get Mexican money, and Dickson and the Kickapoo farmer indorse our
check, and Bentley took them and paid us Mexican money; and then when we
went out to trade at Eagle Pass we had to sell the Mexican money at 49 cents to get
gold to trade on.
We want our money sen,t to Eagle Pass then we go there to trade, and if we want
Mexican money we can get it there. Some of our people have not received a penny
of lease money since we came to Mexico. Thackery sent a clerk here with a few
checks in July, but the trader, Mr. Green Conklin & Co., came with him and stood
right there to claim the paper as fast as we signed. We want our checks sent here
to the bank, then we can come when we please to get it, and some trader from Shaw-
nee can not hold us up. Mr. Dickson said he would be compelled to recommend
that a man be sent here twice a year to pay us. We don't want anyone sent here —
just our money sent here.
We had a good hunting season this year. Grass is fine. I am coming to Wash-
ington soon to find out how much Dickson said, and to see about my business there.
I hope you will ask to have our lease money aeafe at once. Write me care Presidente
at Muzquiz, Mexico.
Jim (his x mark) Deer.
Witness to mark:
H. M. Tenncel,
Eagle Pass, Tex,
Exhibit No. 95 [Howe].
Department op the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, Janxwry 22, 1906.
Roman Galan, Esq.,
Muzquiz, Mexico.
Sir: This OflSce is in receipt of your letter of January 8, 1906, forwarding accoont
of Pae na, a Kickapoo Indian, for $260, for provisions and cash furnished her from
November 10, 1903, to August 10, 1904, amounting to $260 Mexican money, and
requesting that Superintendent Thackery, of Shawnee, Okla., be directed to make
payment of said amount to you as soon as possible.
You are informed that under directions of the Secretary of the Interior, dated
January 13, 1906, no more moneys will be paid to Mexican Eackapoo Indians in
Mexico until further orders.
The records of this Office do not show that the land allotted to said Mexican
Kickapoo Indian has been sold, and the Office is not advised of the amount of
money, if any, in the hands of Superintendent Thackery to pay such claim.
Your account is herewith returned.
Very respectfully, C. F. Larrabee,
Acting Commissioner.
81S8 AFTAIRB OF THE HBUOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAVS.
MuasQUiz, CoAHUiLA, January 8, 1906.
Men 0 pea. Dr., to Roman Galan.
X903. Mexican money.
Nov.18. To merchandise $50.00
Dec. 27. CMh and merchandlae 10.00
1904.
Feb. 2. Merchandise 25.00
Feb. 22. Merchandise 25.00
Mar. 15. Oish and merchandise 25.00
Mar.lO. Merchandise 16.00
May 29. Merchandise 50.00
Jiily20. CSash and merchandise... 25.00
July 25. Ohish received from Mr. M. J. Bentley $105f00
jQly29. Merchandise 6.00
231.00
To balance 126.00
I acknowledge this account to be correct.
Mbn o pba (her x mark).
Witnesses to mark —
Gmo H. Vacx;a.
8. £. GUKMA.
MuzQuiz, CoAHUiLA, Mbxico, Jonwxry 8, 1906.
Poena, I)r., to Roman (ialau.
1003. Mexican money.
Nov. 10. To provisions $30. 00
Dec. 23. To provisloHH and (^h 50.00
Dec. 31. To cssh and proviflions 20.00
1904.
Jan. 10. Toprovisions 10.00
Jan. 26. To provisions and cash 25. 00
Mar. 8. To proviwionH 10. 00
Mar. 15. To provisions an<l cash 25. 00
Apr. 3. To provinions and cash 20 00
Apr. 20. Toprovisions 10.00
May 10. To provisions 10. 00
May :^0. To provisions and cash 10. 00
July 12. Toprovisions 10.00
July 28. To provisions and cash 10.00
Aug. 10. Toprovisions 20.00
Total 260.00
I acknowledge this amount to Im corriH^t.
Par na (her z mark).
Witnesses to mark:
Gmo. H. Vacx'a.
8. £. GUKUHA.
BZBIBIT No. 06 [Uowe].
July 21, 1906.
Honorable RarRaTARv or thb Interior,
WoMhington, IK C.
8ir: I herewith inclose the appliiati<in of Ok^mah and 61 other applications, for
navmaut by claim of the amounts due said applicants as Mexican Kickapoo Indians
ing in Mississippi, under the act of Congress of March 3, 1893, as provided for
««e act of Congress of June 21, 1906.
' AFFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2188
These claims are filed in your office for the reason that no rules or regalaiionB
under the act Congress of June 21, 1906, have been adopted, and the said ap^cantB
are not attached to any Indian agency in the United States.
The applicants for this payment have endeavored to comply with all the require-
ments of the act authorizing the same.
By reference to the act, it will be noticed that the Secretary of the Interior is
authorized to make this payment by claim through either the Border National Bank
or the First National Bank of Eagle Pass, Tex.
It is respectfully requested that if there is any question with regard to the suffi-
ciency of those applicants, that I may be at once notified, to the end that I may
communicate with my clients, and secure a correction of the same; and it is further
respectfully reouestea that this matter may receive prompt attention, to the end that
it may be speeaily adjusted and closed, it being a fact that the act oi Congress made
this fund immediately available, so that in the event the act had passed prior to the
close of the fiscal year, there would have been no dela^ in the payment of same, and
in closing a transaction which has extended over a period of aoout thirteen years.
These Indians who are applicants reside near Ea^le Pass, Tex., in the Repulic of
Mexico, and have done business with the Border National Bank at Eagle Pbsb for
many years. The president of the bank knows nearly all of them personall^r. The
applications include the chief and the entire council of the tribe as it existed in
Oklahoma at the time of the passage of the act of March 3, 1893. Any question of
identity, descent, or disputed question of fact can be settled by witnesses residing at
the same point, and from no other point. I respectfully submit that the records in
the office of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs are complete, and that no good
result can be accomplished by a reference to any field officer of that bureau; it Ming
the announced policy of the Department at the time of the consideration of this
matter before Congress to avoid the vexatious delays which had occurred in the set-
tlement of Kickapoo matters in the past, and this method of settlement was adopted.
There being no substantial reason why justice can not be done by and through the
rendition of an account stated as provid^ by the terms of this act.
Respectfully,
Chbbtbr Howi.
BXHIBIT No. 97 [Howe].
SSPTBBfBBR 18, 1906.
Hon. Sbcretary op the Intbrior,
Washinffionj D. C.
Sir: On August 20, 1906, 1 had the honor to address you in reference to the claims
of the Mexican Kickapoo Indians residing in Mexico. At that time these claims had
been sent to Agent Thackeray at Shawnee for a report, with instructions to act upon
and return them immediately. I am informed that they were returned about two
weeks since and are still in the Indian Office. This delay, I suppose, has been occa-
sioned by the absence of clerical force during the vacation perioa, but it is occasioning
these Indians great hardship and loss, as was intimated in my former communication,
and I sincerely hope that immediate action may be had, to the end that they may
realize the fund they so much need to complete their land title.
Respectfully,
Chbbter Howe.
Exhibit No. 08 LHowe].
Dbcember 11, 1906.
Hon. Secretary op the Interior,
Washingtorij D. C.
Sir: In relation to the payment of shares of trust funds, payable to certain
Kickapoo Indians, under the act of April 21, 1906, I have the honor to submit the
application of O ke mah for and on behalf of his deceased daughter, Tho que now o qua,
as claimant for the same as parent and next of kin, together with corroborated affi-
davits showing the relationship, etc. This man, 0 ke mah, and his family have
been prominent in Kickapoo affairs for a long time, and there can be no question as
to the relationship of any member of his family. It is respectfully submitted that
this claim is fully established by the evidence furnished,
2184 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN EICKAPOO INDIANS.
I also have the honor to incloBe the application of Pah pe ah ka, widow of
Tr ha qua the. This name is sometimes speired Pah pe ack. It is respectfully sub-
mitted Uiat the matters referred to in said letter fully establish their relationship, and
that there is now in the office of the honorable Secretary of the Interior and the honor-
able Commissioner of Indian Affairs abundant proof to establish the correctness of this
application.
These applications are filed with the honorable Secretary of the Interior, for the rea-
son that the act provides that payment shall be made by the Secretary of the Interior,
and no regulations have been adopted with regard thereto providing for an application
before any other officer.
In filing this application, I respectfully request that notice of action taken in them
may be given me, to the end that I may inform these parties.
I have the honor to be, respectfully,
Chester Howb.
ExHiBFF No. 99 [Goode].
Depabtment op the Interior,
October «5. J906.
Respectfully referred to the Conmiissioner of Indian Affairs for consideration and
report.
Jesse E. Wilson, Assistant Secretary.
Exhibit No. 100 [Goode].
Department op Justice,
Washington, October 18, 1906.
The Secretary op the Interior.
Sir: I send you herewith a copy of a letter of the 29th ultimo, from the United
States attorney at Guthrie, Okla., and inclosures, being a report by Assistant United
States Attorney Outcelt upon an investigation by him of the charges against Martin J.
Bentley, in connection with the purchase and sale by him of the allotments of certain
Kickapoo Indians.
From an examination of this report it does not seem clear to me that sufficient evi-
dence has been produced upon which to base any criminal prosecutions. If, however,
from additional information in your possession, or otherwise, it occurs to you that facts
are presented warranting further action, I shall be pleased to receive anv sugeestions
you may wish to offer in this connection or with reference to the advisability of taking
steps to recover the money received by Bentley.
Respectfully,
J. C. McReynolds,
Acting Attorney-General,
(Indosure 6987.)
Exhibit No. 101 [Goode].
Department op the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington, November 27, 1906,
The Secretary op the Interior.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter dated October 29,
1906, from the Hon. Henry M. Teller, who says that on the 22d of that month he
asked the Attorney-General for a copy of the report of Assistant United States Attorney
Outcelt with reference to the Kickapoo Indian matter, and that he was informed
that the report had been referred to tne Department of the Interior. Sc^nator Teller
says ^at he is very anxious to have a copy of the report and hopes that it mav he
forwarded to him without delay. This communication was forwarded here on Octo-
ber 31, 1906, with the following indorsement: ''Respectfully referred to the Com-
missioner of Indian Affairs."
The report called for by Senator Teller comprisr* 79 pages of typewritten matter,
and is accompanied by 102 inclosures, many of them being voluminous documents.
Tbe report has not been considered in this Office sufficiently to enable me to deter-
APFAIB8 OF THE MEXIOAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2186
mine whether further action is necessary, but from a cursory examination I am inclined
to the opinion that there are matters disclosed which may possibly need further
investigation. The nature of the report is such that I am in doubt as to the propriety
of giving it out at the present time. I therefore transmit the original report, without
the inclosures, for your examination. If you are of the opinion that a copy thereof
should be furnished Senator Teller, I will be pleased to have one made without delay
for transmission to him on the receipt of notice of your views and the return of the
report.
Very respectfully, F. E. Leufp, Commissioner,
ExmsiT No. 102 [Goode].
Department of the Interior,
January 16, 19(ft.
Respectfully returned to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs.
Edward M. Dawson,
QmS CUrh.
Exhibit No. 103 [Goode].
Department of Justice,
Office of the United States Attorney,
District of Oklahoma,
GtUhrie, September t9, 1906,
The Attorney-General, Washington^ D. C.
Sir: In compliance with your letter, C. W. R., No. 48435^ of the 22d instant, asking
to be advised as to the result of Mr. Outcelt's investigation in Mexico concerning
conveyances from Okemah, Thithequa, Kickapoo Indians, to W. W. Ives, I have the
honor to transmit herewith Mr. Outcelt's full report, just completed, of the whole
investigation.
This report shows course of fraud by Bentley and others in dealing with these Indians
that approaches in outrage the work of highwaymen.
In the time we have b^ to consider these matters we have not determined on any
prosecutions in this Territory, as it appears that the acts complained of were com-
mitted in the State of Texas and the Republic of Mexico.
We have a Territorial law against conspiracy which would probably reach some
of the parties, but the punishment — only nne and imprisonment in the county jaQ —
is so inadequate that we are examining the cases with a view to try to prosecute for
felony.
I call special attention to page 62 of the report.
The situs of this alleged transaction seems to be Washington, D. 0.
I am advised that many of the alleged deeds were taken in Texas, that many of
the Indians deny executing these deeds, and that others say the instruments were
misinterpreted to them.
I call your attention to the following provisions of the Revised Statutes of Texas,
1895: Criminal code, false swearing; article 209, chapter 2, title 8; chapter 3, title 8.
It seems that John Mine, an illiterate Indian, unable to read or write, acted as
interpreter and made the affidavits of correct interpretation which were attached to
the several deeds, and that he made these affidavits at the instance of Bentley and
others. (Criminsd code, false certificate; art. 252, chap. 5, title 8.)
From statements of some of these Indians it appears that some of the certificates
made by the notaries are not true. (Criminal code, false interpretation; arts. 546
and 547, chap. 1, title 14; criminal code, conspiracy, title 18.)
I am of the opinion that a further investigation should be made of each sx>ecific
transfer, and where the facts warrant and the Indian can give the Government some
assurance that he will not change his mind for a trifle in the event of probable recov-
ery, an action should be brought in the name of the Indian to recover the land.
We are so crowded with other work that we can not make such investigation.
Very respectfully,
John Embrt, U. 8. Attorney,
P. S. Exhibits referred to in Outcelt's report sent on this mail under separate
cover.
2186 AJVAIB8 OV THE MXXIOAV KIOKAPOO TSVIASB.
Exhibit No. 104 [Qoode].
DSPARTMINT Of JUSTICB,
OfficB Of THB United States Attornbt,
District of Oklahoma,
QtUhru, August 6, 1906.
Unitbd States Attornbt, District of Oklahoma,
Outhne, Okla.
Sir: In sccordance with instructions contained in your letter dated April 20, 1906,
relative to the transactions of one Martin J. Bentlev with certain Kickapoo Indians
in regard to their removal to Mexico, and the purcnase of their allotments situated
in OElahoma, and as to the withholding of money belonging to them, directing me to
make a thorough investigation with a view to prosecuting said Bentley, either under
the Oklahoma, Texas, or Federal Statutes, and to take such other action as would
protect the Indians, and report fully as to the law and facts, I respectfully submit
this, my report:
Upon receiving your letter Mr. Frank A. Thackery, superintendent and special
disburBing agent of the Shawnee Indian Training School, after some delay, received
instructions from the honorable Secretary of the Interior to accompany me to Eagle
FSss, Tex., and to Mexico and assist in this investigation.
On May 21, 1906, Mr. Thackery and myself leU Shawnee, Okla., for Eaele Pass, Tex.,
and Mexico, arriving at Eagle Pass on the 23d day of May. While in Eaele Pass we
called on Mr. R. W. Dowe, United States collector of customs, and througn his kind-
ness we received letters from Uie federal judges of the State of Coahuila, Mexico,
addressed to the presidente of the municinalitv of Monclova and to the juage of the
first court of letters of the same place, ana to Alberto Guajardo, chief politico of the
municipality of Muzouiz, and on the evening of May 25 we took the train for Monclova,
Mexico. Tne official recorder's office, for me recording of deeds conveying land in
the municipality of Muzquiz is at Monclova, and, with the assistance of an interpreter,
we searched the records to ascertain whether or not lands had been deeded to these
Indians, or to Mr. Bentley in trust for them.
We found no such conveyance and received a certificate from the secretary of the
land office to that effect. Said certificate reads as follows:
^Public record of the property in the Monclova dUtriet, Coahuxia,
"Francisco Valdez Llano, officer and recorder of the property for the Monclova
district, Coahuila.
"I certify: That Mr. Martin J. Bentley and the Indians O ke mah, Thi the quah.
No ten, Wah nah ke thah, Kish kin ne auote, Tah pahthe a, Ne ka not pit have not
recorded here in the archives and records any title deed of pro|)erty of lands in the
jurisdiction of the municipality of the town of Muzquiz, Coahuila m this Monclova
district.
" And by petition of Mr. G. A. Outcelt is issued the present certification in this city
of Monclova, to-day, 28th of May, 1906.
"(Signed) Francisco Valdiz Llano.
"The present translation was made by me and is a literal and faithful translation
from the original.
"Albbrto Lobo,
**Mondovaf Coahuila, Mexico,
"(Original certificate marked Exhibit 1.)"
We then started for Muzquiz, reaching there May 29.
On Uie 30th we called on Alberto Guajardo, the cnief politico, but found him absent
from his office.
We then drove to the Indian camp located about 9 miles northeast of the village
of Muzquiz.
We were ordered to leave the camp by Wah pe che quah, a Kickapoo Indian, who
said he was acting under the authority given nim by Mr. Bentley. We refused to
reco^ize Mr. Bentley 's orders. In a short time Wah pe che quah returned, accf)m-
panied by three or four policemen and a Spanish interpreter, who informed us that
we must leave camp at once or they would arrest us. We immediately returned to
Muzquiz and the next morning called on the chief politico, Alberto Guajardo, who
would not recognize my commission from the United States, and informe(i me that I
must first get my orders from the Mexican Government before he would officially
recoenize me. Mi, Thackery then went directly to Eagle Pass, Tex., and I remained
at mizquia.
AmnBB cm thb iwimrAW bigxjiioo ikhasol 9137
Srii '"t iTOft I wjKT»^ -i. rj^i*jECsxtL fern, life- an^cr'ffiieir <?f Co*&iB3Liw- iaifl^rmizur m* ^taA
y.r.TL -iii»r«»af::«' jc riki* mataBacR- if Xr. Bicndjg^. H#» wa» ws *! wnrk «5ii titti»^ «p««» ^
Mursivn:! ««!^ Cxfiihts 2' . 1 1&«, jHxfi fer )£Kk ^.hawtL jotit^u^p fltii^kspi^ Izuthar.,
I wm f&:^uai; jsiit 3«aSbi7>^ hi!^ mmsdiBfi m' mnni hut wmt ars*»9&»fi imt dssefbLy oiksiL (»
Jtr. B*mrii»7- --:r.&: pioiTR- on. 5&«' onrr^ aift- .if clifr piJoss^ in Ifcirjq-iia:. Amani^ acatr
&auz9. i<^ iftiit iSti TL^- " I ^ ruzt kntsw whas. jr-inr hrmm^at is. (Q^.ezR'. htxs I ^sttSs &tts&
msaxi hiSPt \^ rJn* EMparrnnimi: v- zak^ cstfif ^^ mtisik loiiiana. &i pay iiajwn. ^her IitaaR- aad
BsBut 3uaii»7' mil i j^.a wrli wizzs oniai; £ fee tshennfi^ E wiH sakft jnix r.*! dn^ <»am.p sui
j»ni may fii*^ sny lLii*Ttm y^n wiB& to «fe.' I wM jrb i:i«2L a'i in itfhmg uhi mi\w yaa
&0W "Juij ^raCi^Jif iifii imt lirTifr yin a frvyf sane- 2»i«caily. ' &sr aikn i&Uk^tt cii^^i &s^
Bi«inii*y irui 21 1 pLfflCKa wfusat hst *vmM, ftrii©' axft^ a. secpkec '^gaL. ir shac iit ^jiniit kast
iixi>^ •»^'.-iaII-T is iii:it{rL init r^nac w» ha^t a^wa?9 S«aL !|n«^^i sifmjizf jod. s&ac Bl«- was xmas^
sa 3ia<£^ ^Lia^r3i>«^ lis iii'.mts^ ami oi!- w^nM aesHL c«- m. pfi^ziis tiht»)«^. I sui ta Tjimr
"* I It: 3i:c ^MTTi J- y:ii tr.TLat hixrn out^"' aui fiit «t5iS»i ukac *&j& aait &a^ -mift ETniSiad
Is ▼itf ui»t*»iw-:»:it by sh* riitianif sii^ fi^ Ife^^azL am^.nmKst. as wBsil as ouac si
tii»r* -.7 -jiiij ''Ti:i»^nm«UL "HiaB W". ?. S^Kilit was 2fc Dxic«i ^«ir.*»» Smadir ami Edrasy
iai *.»***^ •feTii -y :iLft Ciiiiiif 7nax>9 winh, Quonrtniiiis Vi atsHHC ICr B«*iiniigy m. 'tanrjtiKr
iTEC ouj ~ uijirt iTL ^Twry way prjaaife. T^SHb <»r.n ^j-itm-.m* ifff trfii mly iia"7» ft«*i»n. pm«i:iB%a
b'^ 'jif^ ^iai«^ r<^pr»ifHLnainr.iis of Mr. B<<si£i«y sui &is MmdoGes aiui a^eoiai &a sks €&ct
tsSor -::Lt*y tut ?*ccRs«ifi cis ITaiMii i^sax^Gn^f^samatiL.
arrr?«; -rw 3ia»t»^ *#»6iBt Mr. Tftarfewry 'ir msrs^ had, wiaic -^nfi &j S2tsr ''.anip. hue tito
ssTTti:*^ :r tn»^ .rtiir was wtcMf>iii rnaal wc^'ftfti OHhi^&efi 8&«^ <!aai:^ Tk» V^nLpiamS
ann.Qtr -.nni^r -Jt^rujs. ^ha'Tfttt * "iias & iP>iLO -if ijruavsas wfii5 niffiHmy arm»fi ac di«Dr
rr^m-* inu**fT;»*it "iiii»m. as *nnwy aii:infflLC. <¥xni:nLr ^innn. to &ann» nr.Tij^fe amnni^ tihiQn»-
«t~T»s, ^-n- iirr.Ttr -^jffliL V 'tniLkftnm'as aait v. irJie^r tk«»- rmnrng -xiZiKe rin^ iasv^iM'
1V5CT iz.(: !- cijiisnnng' :tai»r ai^naga. 'aknug ait^«irag& nf sai^ qgu'>ga2i<!gr tif ^tnm^fainanai> '^
T'-i* '/P.: -.'^m.* was ziHpir«ft- cf nirSfi«ff ant aiaiii^. hy Mr. B^mdj^ annaftif :cr t^is
ti.i: u* t'u-^.i Hft :r tiaitr^tinnxr 3£r nubdcffrr aimt iiyiRlf wtsk niu* i5iruii:n:nii»» :r lCt^xie&
asi't ".'ir ".'▼^ ' V-'^^ri-iif^tLn. i*iit v zti Tiw*tt la ;i Hf^ans v. or«i*i«His irtr 'tniiiJii:iiiii!aCEiif
▼"j*^ '^Ar Ij.«t_ainf. in.: "r.r "ii»»^ "umi* :»»oir :n uiij^»r»fi o"*^ p»ir;«:Bft utanm-.^iy. -ir. oir as
"^1* ^r-T- a.t ti'uii-.r'.ef* v*r^ v.iii'Riniift. nut £.*f*T:irnris ir-.tii ii«»i*!iiznr uiit '.r:ai»Eaii^
WTT^ Tit* Izii .:1:1a. H.-^ i*Hr. -r:»:ti,:Ly i3.t:i»iitt»»ft '.yjns Tr.ciniazir, ",.: "^xruii* my jrv
•»i»» litt-ozif. li i*'rv:r:aiiiT?* wrJi tin* vrnitf :t mia ".rim^tazis "Lie jr.Ui-.ft rjryt «af
Mi-i.: 11.: via Tuii'*^: ifi.:Ti*f:r. •-; liu*^ :rtt*E5 if 55»»iix:Lfty lait uw: liic in vtr^ irn as aa
wii-. -r -vtc Hii'.r^t iix inc-rwc* wrii "^i*» LOituans. aiitt iifr Twtit iis ;#'.^*ir l^aIln« Ji*.
T^iiH rA.tior. 'ji-n.; j» a:«'iir-»<: iitouc > aiil»»» ii:r!;iii»a« :f 3€ uutTi:! in. znj& 5anciaa 2jn«:.
JL v:nr. ::i ;••»<*- r.nrLii? :f i. .iiijft innL irutf '.aznp ss ;]l snalL i^iliiary -v!ii»r»: mesral ii
ijszZmi. )fC~iSisu ifiils iS ?«9uJ^ 31 IfeciTn ac smn. M to 25 ^tfiua Ifein'oa amnsj %
fvnz. TiA Littiantf taa jrt. uL las mesial tai«y wgns a^ fsine the to mss fiaKoIiary,
"^^it^r* ^ L 'flia'v:!*?** T-^^rhim •^runaiL by tffls^ mmxis <rf jyma P^sratt^ w&i ^os hee tseot
i«V.ii~ -.ai*-ialf 21^ *nrji :r "iS^s lam:^. I '^sarj^ mtBL Mr. B*»rLdJi*y an to tinis n«ic ahims
-LnnfflT 'u-Ut* trill .r. jj mttt*rsi:f:#f ly iH tihsr fiifianir wn^ w^^m I Ofcl&gd mac i& E-^jnw
^±t^n T-r^ ::f*r u» iji ttss. she ia» 1 i«y ^tmL H "y«» :iil ami S aai ti'.&t ay J, T
B*»2an. .r •Lia-vTii»f^. liias i* was w.rkmff' wjcfi B«idRy wten. 5&is icy was ^f^Ki, sod
121a." r»^r.-i»*7 ui-TLirr^ v. irm. '.aas ec was iis 'E'^nrisy * -^fuLiu .S»e F.T':.oai -t , I
aa^^ i«^r. ur -^.a ozi^ ii JE-ina P^f^aa ac merSmis^asmaa.yasI;^^ig3>K«riiafWi»HifiiMi»
2188 AFFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Th€Be Indians fxft all the mescal they want. I was out to this camp several times
and no time was tne camp without drunken Indians.
I saw Johnny Mine, bentley's official interpreter, many times, and I never saw
him sober, and g^enerally he was drunk and insulting to me.
I stayed in this camp one night when Bentley was there, and Johnny Mine came
to me about dark and ordered me from the camp, and after I had laid down on a table
outside of the tepee he came several times and disturbed me.
When these Indians came to the village of Muzquiz they were taken charge of eithei
by Bentley or some of his confederates or agents, and taken to and kept in the court
or vacant ground in the rear of a store, and there supplied with drink until they became
intoxicated before they were allowed to again app^^ar on the streets.
On the 22d of June I started to Eagle Pass to see Mr. Thackery, and on the 24th.
while at Eagle Pass, I learned that the Mexican Government had instructed the local
authorities at Muzquiz to assist me, and I started for Muzquiz on the first train, and
by driving about 40 miles at night I arrived at Muzquiz about 5 o'clock, July 25, and
later in the day received the telegram from the governor before mentioned.
Soon after my arrival at Muzquiz I learned that the authorities had placed Mr.
Bentley under arrest for intimidating and compelling certain Indians to sign deeds
or other papers relating to their allotments in Oklahoma, and for assaulting Mack
Johnson, a Kickapoo Indian. In accordance with the Mexican law, the complaints
were afterwards filed, and at the trial the evidence showed that certain Indians, to wit.
Mack Johrson, Homer Anderson. Pa rea thep pea. Ah ten ye tuck. Pah zhe, and others
had been forced by arrests and tnreats, made either by Bentley or his agents, to sign a
paper, the contents of which not one of them knew. That Mark Johnson had been
struck over the head with a G-shooter for refusing to sign, but tliat this assault had
been made by a Mexican; I think his name is Vacca: however, he was the servant of
one Roman Galan, and he very often acted as Mr. Bentley's coachman and driver.
The assault was made in Bentley's presence and at the tent where he then was.
Mr. Bontley employed a lawyer from Monterey, and at the trial he produced a
paper which he call< d the "new roll " and testified that this was the paper the Indians
tiad signed, and as its terms did not create such an obligation or contract as could
be enforced, the court held that he was guilty of no fraud.
The proof on the assault charges was to the effect that Vacca or other parties were
the immediate aggrt ssors, and Mr. Bentley was released. 1 appeared in this case at the
request of several of the Indians, and for the further reason that the assault on Mack
Johnson immediately followed his arrest when about to serve me as interpreter.
After he was rcb psed I understood tliat the governor of the State ordered the authori-
ties to arrest Bentley and hold him. He left Mexico at once, after his release, and
I did not again see him in Mexico.
There is a man living in Muzquiz by the name of Roman Galon, who was at all
times very active in Bentley's interest, and who formerly was in the mercantile busi-
ness. There is also a one-armed Mexican who is in the mercantile business at Muz-
auiz. These two merchants had large accounts against the Indians, and several of
le Indians wore am sted for debt on complaint of those merchants. While in Muz-
quiz Bentley had his office with Roman Galon.
These Indians, when they came to Muzquiz, generally went to the store of thiB
one-armed merchant and there remained in the back vara until they got drunk. .
When Mr. Bentley left Muzquiz, immediately after his release, Mr. Field. Eamey,
and Gaston remained for some days and were very active among the Indians, and
still managed to pnwent them from talking to me, and the Indians during tliis time
were afraid to come to my room or make any statement to me without positive assur-
ances that their coming or their statements should not become known to Mr. Bentley.
I succeeded in getting to see a few of the Indians, and they made statements in
writing after being assured that Bentley would not be informed, but none of the
•even Indians, from whose allotments the restrictions to alienation had been removed
in March, 1905, would, during this time, converse with me on any subject.
When Mr. Bentley was agent over these Indians, and while they were on their
lands near Shawnee, he used every inducement possible to poison the minds of the
Indians against the United States Government. He also distilled into their minds
the belief that by going to Mexico they could go back to their old customs and laws.
That there they could live in peace and be amenable to only such laws as they would
make. He succeeded in getting ouite a large number to move to Mexico.
In order that he might control tne actions of these Indians it was necessary to have
achief and council friendly to him, and notwithstanding the fact that they already had
a queen, he had Wah pe cne quah chosen chief and No ten, O ke mah, and Kis kin ne
quote, and some other Indians put on their council, but these four Indians control
in the inakinK of the laws ana absolutely dictate to the other Indians as to what
they shall or uiall not do.
AVFJkDBB or THB WKnCJklf MICKMFOO JSKAWS^ 2139
wad, i^SAc Mr. B^fsisSttY hsk Mexxft I flnr Emmej, vik& jh^ &c m B^ssSer^s j
^^r«- ^ften iBisBtfj- I tsm^Jadesk i&ai Mr. BcBsiif^ tema^iOfi ci* lai&Bu
abc^'xifr wB^ mfswej ESt 'sria' ti&d< ni«y wi^mM, W Ae hob^ P^*"^ ^ "'^ ^"^'^
Jfnatf- ^ Mr. JhM'Meej taatt i& MutzifTm. I«B <«■ Ae ana fce MCgi*€ii fawb basM
upqn n&oK k2B inx- Wig ggk aBwfe fc» fflWLiei« ifc«B warn ■eee—ty, aarf W iris iar Oidb>
^■mik .izui 'tDd !iQC atiSKQfc fgsngiL 9iq» MiEm^OEi-
I 3Ai in s&s- ccBziCEafiev (iaEBiif vf niiiBiniMiriw wiA BenBls?'. atevv sie&iaeii,
b«»i»fL !!a:5^7s«f^ by Mr. E^asc^eji&ae f vTiisiEi baT«rtks)> jipp^ oe^lBBfeseBi^ W. A^ B^itminay
'^ti T^ &-.riier X«w^na^ B«aJL ae E«gi«- P^mk. foaSE imk-^rauMCBUi ^m ^e^ kmi parefiaflerl bf
tUTi: ni M^^ixa ist 3&cae Lhiauift. aci^ feK^eo^iei «f Cfisaaieai rracin^ bcswiiaii &iM
m MeD)(^. ssii !iuK si« <ic«fic subs ^ ll£ed for wmsemA wi^am mimem 4m atsm cxe
tBOL iai liue <iSr« •^ i^ sKisGarf oi ite hmd ^ffiiee ips* i&ft dHSiKS wwIim wine^ i
Ibfiiii ss sniii^br^L j£ii<i bl ;;k» <ta«r sie ksifi «:tfitt«i iir si« BBsaBcspaiiBSj «f Mi
dw- irsB crsoru ^ uftr.n^^ra. ^a- i^ cferiL
T.i;i£ '?a uOi*- *fTiit':riSji'i€L '^i sAe <^«ciif fi&e iiiscar7 pmhkiie', kepi, m km ^Msm i^ <
<£(»i^i. sztai 'tn^us warn hxsMud m 8^ ^vmii^ <st ucnrice oi i
T!i« •iA»i i'jr laaui ql Mexzien^. w&klL Mr.- Ikfisdcj ieui fiiac«^ bifd'irc- sb^er Stodtficr ^rjHft-
» zx.rjrj prib^ sxd liaprpfr '^ Mszifrci:z. I vac soinriDefi s^dC ^ &(m£ b<ea csp4i&7«4
jfcay'itii^ •H!:9«- vsft watusit &;r ooje Eiuls^kaii. juui ^htFy xsj iot w&k&i (Ubc cr aiaiir (Si tiv
rati.;i r..4 V >r«- piKtaeL H«- pcnm-p^iL j nfiiaeii. i£!il«» I wooM «s Mr.. Bcoaicj 8& Tnnymfi
'Jut 'ic^iTT^rj <>; BUr ^^ ^jipus. I snw Mr.. Ecaid«7.. aani fce aua I c^isiid |sc a <tis^ si Mr.
aLinr>.r- I 'iai ace Jip^vj n."-i Mr. fi-'^aaiftr, fi;r n&i^se- (^ri^xes.
l jx.'jt\r^i is. T^CL !*:> zer. ^ ''.npT* frr,m. d&j^ ai:r.^ir7. buz &iuillj amip«aiiai Q«» r«^ xesktX"
JDAS, jLAti 'Jit^j msxr\^!&d wxJx -ji^ <C<»£ftf^vaiij « jckLML. v^ wi& mt -ntadc^e cr is3K pnzij
t6 '::iie Tr.cin>ts. jsxil whij ka«i ;t2. •fiti^ii c^giiL!: wkh, nhi» ^voii^a '^ »rrjnd.^pue^ m im^% m
^}i,.iu*r. Li-.*rpc*r.er itTuI dia. btsu ^'ja.iiii w-;rj«i ai-.c zjsLk '^j him.- «•. I Vj#j% ^j^Iaa. iat »
"ii»* '.lar.^rr ii Txrii-.iit* w^t^ rs »Am^ riiiu ae maxij*: ao' '->lt.T«*ntu»-ia i3i p«3nmi:ag me- 1»«
pr.' .-•r: "pje^s :c ".h«>iH»- fiftftife 'X 'r-.a^n.'rA bas: s&:kS lie ^iai ai-.c wsot Eensl^ 3fl fcaowr
will-* II T -i-r^rpr«r*»r wa** n?aitniir ^W ^'.ftra&ffase a^nur.&ed &5 idte 4titd m ^smsbsu^
yU ZiuntrT L^iil I -.iiiak. Mr. <^j^a^jL, as^tiaxe^ j£ s&e- ^^Jfike. Mr. Eaesutf f^oiifn^^
r-: .-*c^•^^^Il.- i;.*ci:I«*7 i,zd ar-ir-ai -^iats ^ Lid b««i «&nfJUbd hj Mr. BcafillffT to' «5i^ict
V. ■iitrr t-^i:-:.-tr7 -.t -^zz& ■■'Xj Vj sie. ajiii i^isacai 5&as I s&iTiM gD^ to Ea^Je Fmb,. lAam
E»*t:-.'-7 ▼'li*. iz-ii f«rr. i i;:p7 nr.ai ?±e B*-x^«' Sanii;n;kl Eimi. Mr.. Earaey fr.ir(»fi -isaKtt
iL- 3»--i:^7 iii*i ^n' hnn 'iiiint to 'J'Jj^i^ to^ i;ii*- *if»{rj"*«j ^i€ tifeiH €0|w-, *iid r,^;ir. "Ae
iiir-fcT/ 2:iii ii: r^:. v, .i*Hn»r n; to aaLT-yce «i^t»pn Mr BfensLey «r <5a &sn£l^i 'x4fsp,
Aj r ii-> * *r-i.-al "Ju* itfir ^0smisr^ s&e Bc&arr to e6tl^E7i?r is to- erArer tj&* TifTui:ir ^ar
T«iiiit^. liiii xr::i»r -^e oiactfy &tii^ ffrsiioaed. (sa ti&e r^tj/ssskm dL Mr, £aea»j. and Ife.
2140 APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
(jaston had left, I succeeded in getting Geledonio Cralan, the vendor, to request the
copy of the notary, which was delivered to him after considerable delay. I finally
succeeded in getting a copy after paying $25 American money, for the same and
promising not to inform Bentley of its delivery to mo.
I then nad the deed translated and found that it was very indefinite in its terms,
and if it conveyed any title, it conveyed it to Mr. Bentley, instead of O ke mah or any
other Indian. This deed, or contract, showed a consideration of $21,000 Mexican, or
$10,500 American, $11,000 Mexican having been paid and the balance, $10,000 Mexi-
can, yet unpaid and due August 12, 1906.
Mr. Bentley, in his statement before the Senate committee of March 22, 1906, on
paee 16 of the record, states that ho had already bought $21,000 worth of land in Mexico,
ana that thepmperty was in the name of O ke mah, and that O ke mah held the land
for the benefit oi all the other Indians at<iheir request. (See Exhibit No. 15.) An
examination of the deed will show that Mr. Bentley*s statements to the Senate com-
mittee was false, in that the deed, if deed it be^ is made to him and not to O ke mah
and is not a trust deed in any particular. It will also show that only $5,500 was paid
for the $21,000 worth of the land he speaks about. This testimony of Mr. Bentley
could not have been given by mistake, for he knew then that this land in Mexico
belonged to him, or was deeded to him, rather than to O ke mah, and this conclusion
is estaolished from the fact that at the time he made the complaint to prevent myself
and Mr. Thackery and others from goine on this land, it was stated in tnat complaint,
that the land belonged to Bentley, ana that the Indians were permitted by nim to
be in possession of tne same. There was no way that I could ascertain the extent of
this tract of land, for the reason that the property had been an estate, and I found no
orders of court dividing it among the heirs, and tnere was no way to tell what amount
of this property Celedonio Galan as an heir to this estate, owned at the time of the sale.
The San Francisco plantation, of which this tract of land formed a part, was formerly
the property of five different individuals, forming a company, all of whom are now
dead. The number of heirs left by the deceased parties are numerous; I have failed
to find or learn the exact number. Conceding, however, that the statement made by
Mr. Bentley, that the tract contained about 800 acres, to be tnie. a very laree part of
the land is valueless for agriculture or grazing purposes. It is located on high ground
south of the Sabinas River and covered wiUi mesquite, brush, and cactiLs, with no
grass, and but for the bushes and cactus would be barren. What few |X)iiie.M tliey have
can not subsist on this ground. The Indians complained to me that their st^xk was
actually starving, and 1 saw many of them carrying fodder and Johnson grass in bundles
on horseback long distances, to fee<i what few jKinies they kept at this camp.
As I stated alK)ve, when Mr. Thackery and I reacluHi Muzquiz there were quite a
number of white men there from Okhihoma, and 1 was infonntnl by them tnat on
their first visit U) the camp nearly all of the Indians were in distresseci circumstances,
had little or nothing U) eat, except the three or four provided for by Mr. Bentley.
On page 8 of Bentley 's testimony before the Senate committee he stated that two
pieces of the land sold near Shawnee bn)Ught $i^2,000, and that $15,000 in cash was'paid
and that $1(1,500 wius deposited in the Shawnee National Bank, in payment of the bal-
ance of the purchase money for the land of these two Indians.
I have talked to M. F. Eggennan, president of the Shawnee Townsite Company, and
O. H. Slover, secretary of the same company, lx)th of whom reside in Shawnee, and
they state that the amount of mont^paid for these two'pieces of land, or rather the
amount agreed to be paid, was $:^9,C00; that $22,500 was actually paid; that there is
now in the Shawnee National Bank the sum of about $4,000, deposiKni in the name of
W. W. Ives, which is to be held until such time as the patents for the lands purchased
issue, and then it is to he paid to Mr. Ives; that there is a balance due, with interest, of
$12,500, for which sum Mr. Ives holds notes of the Shawnee Townsite Company payable
to himself. The purchivH^ra of this land evidently knew the amount of inoney paid,
and they say that there was $22,500 paid down. Tnis, of couij^e, was American mon(»y.
On page 10 of Bentley's testimony before the Senate committee, given March 22,
1906, he stated that he n^ceived $15,500 and not $15,000, as he had previously stated.
On pace 10 of the same record Mr. Bentley states that ho sold another piece of
(Noten) land for $^^,050 in cash, but claims to have paid out on debts of the Indian,
Noten, $1,000, leaving a balance of $2,050. Th(^ $22,500 that he received fnmi the
Shawnee Townsite Comjmny and the $2,050 which he received fnmi Noten's land
makes a total of $24,5.50 which lie received fn)m the siile of the lands l)elongin<^ to these
Indians. Of that amount he has invested in his own name $'>.5()0 in the purchase of
the land in Mexico, descril>e<l in the dee«l or contract heretofore mentioned. It may
be that the $15.5(K) was all the money reniainingin Mr. Benth'v's hands after having
paid commission for selling the land of which he speaks in his testimony, but if that
18 tnie he paid $7,000 commissicm for negotiating this sale. Taking this as true, it left
in his hands at the time of the purchase of the land in Mexico, and after the payment
li*^: nr.ru'r i.r .n* iil":.i':ui unii .lu. '.ui. :iii— :iiu»" -r "hi'.tii"" vu* ii-.r muCi* uiiu
'.ii» -lij. ::i ' • • ••'.i^iii;— -WiH I- ii'Oi-* 1 ; Til' i.' *- "ii* «,.i* f ".ii* iuiitit ir m v'lii'a
1,, -*..-..■' *--^ .1,* lu n,..'
jI> >i. .♦ LlS'^'niil-.l i.n: ^. -i •- ••• .U* ir-riiLi-fH i.IiL •- •!;i.-- • .li» .'VlHr.*
•• •U.'.rui • r.l ' .1:1. :i .Kr .n.l-":-U'*M 'I if .l.p iilli: .If" ii-u: villi- VI.l N V l ' ^ —
f-i: 111' i.ii-w 2mii_i." r ill '-.!.:ui i.'» nr .ij» .iii.u.i.'f :*■ m virm .:»• -.i.i. i-u::i:i.l';
•juiii- Ail, A.' '. ■ r- ii.iiit*-: lii • * :;i.i'. .ii* Mill ' ?-*.»:»; I •• A.if ii.ii: i.i.: vi^ ,ii^
i.:f ••u * .'Vii-'* » .ii* iiAif ?'ii — "v •"■ii-i'*:ii»T -•r-iii* 11 -iiiivii— i.iii .1 II ;
uuriifii. I."' v'li ■". ■ --li;.'!!' i.n: .ii»*r h'.i..»fu»»'i.vf i.'» iiiiii «i."»>':. ; '.-ii*
"'ii* :.— •: ■-- 'u 7":. ii* .ui.: V V _ • •t' i »• ii* V - » ii* 'L ■. ■«•• 1-7 ". .'
'. ; 1. I i-.L. *-: li-i..' -'iiiV'li— Hli 'V* lu '1 li* * .1 '.;i ■ I Ai:L.-':i. ..it\i'. "':. u- .ui.l
u:':*"!.*-: •»*'! »"• V ji. ii iiiif i n •■.i.— ;ii."»:i- i .ili •■-ri ii.i. ' 7 •:. vir u'l'.H'W
*''aif"'. ii- ••:.--i: » -i • n* L;*—: ••' Ti. .i.* . la.i. .'.i .ii* ■••r.iir.i. .-» ii* -i • » " J*r-
rii:*..^!' u:i:»Ti.-*': "'i. ii* .i;**!. i:i-'.; lii-i '" ."• 'la A.'.if i.ii: . ».* iui.i. ui* riMvi
:. :»* .11* r.fl r.'u. '.iT^ 'I vu *T.""L "1 .h- V. .1.11 i.ni i I'nI.' »:iU.' n.-* .'liliivi i.iit
uM'.ii 'Vi-'.a.'*-: Ill* Li. .If; •■:-—• r. *-: .b* sum* m .ii**i' :-♦•* un: ' liuir.*.-; u" uia
'jit ».ii*f ii— : :- I'.L .11* t\AU' ;>u- ' ". aV 1'^ j »• .ii* ti.iii* :r.ii: liu* ;.i ii*T.ii.'Vj»-ai=-
Ui*"i. .i..i.*'i ■■; V iL. ii ii:ii*' .ii* ^i.ui* ii i.ii— v'li- . ' •£ .ii* u't.h 'Vi»-'.i::iu»'i. :i mi*
i-ii"" ii--:. 7'ii* u'T.ii 'Vi-:iinii*'i. :i ".i.t? '.i-*-: i.:«;»*^l.'T' h; * • i .i..i;-i i. .ii*
<a.ii»* izii* i.'.i: >:u:u* :nii"* ' .ii» i ••nu'- ii-*-: i.ii'. **:u:!- .?•;-*■ n.i.l- L.'.f:»-i/-: 7'i.
.If .ULi. i.:i> ■.'••• I ::-'';i.ii: i.* ii:u:. 'j».l v •;!_ i::i 'Vi ui* lin: in* i.ii -vi
■.-. '!• :c «;•".. i-.i. ;•■••-•:.•♦ vii •■:."■ -u •''. .if i iT-y i-.ia .i^-- -;:ui*'i i.:i: ii'i.n "V'j-:c*-t
"4 11 f .iii. .If" • :•' -r "'. if siciif u«- .ii-*i" :-•"♦ un: ' i:l:;..i." u" i.it: i : •• 7'ii*
iiTV L : i' ":i "'i. ii* L ui.i vu' '-'■ »-:•»-: :i if itir-* > .;•• •••i::- »•• • ii— :.■ i ? i .i-
VL. 'i:.«- '::: • i. " •"•uii.— i. 'i ii* . -- i -.a' • A;i.--i. .MU' i - --i •■ i ; :i. i.ii:
vu* '..:.' •'-•■•':.'-: •••i '"^. : '*> i.n'. .ii- ■?• 'Ui '.f'l vu* i.i-. i •• ••"■ f^i :i .if
ifii"' I If •-:!:"— ' '..»—:;- ' .11' fci,:if •■ u:i. * >i .ii* 'i.i '.u ' • ■ ;»■• .?*••■ i . . .;n
"I ' 'I i. :; i :r. v»:- : ;. • ••«■■»■■■.-. ■ ..;.. ij-'r*"*';!!.!!-" i.:r,»-;.--'. i ii- if': ".•' ju
. i.» 11:^.: . -r ■ '• If •.. » ■ l — - :- 7 5 ." .•:•..' u- ^:j:.;i.;:- iii'--i:.ii.i.
••:.'■••'.> A-.i It* 1.* Kiiii '. 1 V UT i.i*-i -•w;,.-" ■•*;■' II 1,* . i i.:,' J'. .1 lii -> I
^*ii..--i i*'-:' .1 li- 'ill"* " :•- -Tiri^ ••• I :.— lit ' .if *:i.iif ■• 'iii: ■ - i:* • '■ •::«u *-'..
v: : .:•' . '-'.f i •• .ii- 'Vi;-:' • ■'iii.jai- a\' .' r. V . ii:- • -'iii v:i". in* ii*
1.. f'Lir-: :■•• .1:1 II* --VU"*"'. i.",!'.!" " • .If i,'»rf".ru" »: .'.i* j »* -ifr— uiiij' lu if .ic «iiinr
.ii- ::• ■ :i : :i 'Vi--::'.:.": .• : !.•■! v*-* ii » i' • »:. 'iI* •••'.r— '-r. *-: •«* -'ui vii-* 7 'viiHi.*
'ii. ::...: i .::i .::f i.:.: .if* luuif ifv u'-cii'Vi-iiriit »•!..+ :'iy:!!i .ifu »i -.if
■•-u!.::i. -— . I !i'. ■•' -.ry-.n .;i-*ii *i'.' V ii. •• iinf • um nui i ifv •••— lii-.i » -.i.
u*i ^1 Vf-..:!".-.!-". ::;»»• -r.i 'v '.ii .i:l if vu' '.mt*- ii:i.". ' u'-.ui.n. -'. v. .1 ,1it-* .'ii:;i,i«-
7 T. ■ .".I- f ^: ■ li- ;i " i i: ' .*'• :• T.li*' :• ':»*'• "i.lii/ l! la i. If lllf » if i.;«'.iru'-
i.:i • : :.• . ^! ...:.■■ i : -.' ''!■■• ii- ■. i: it < i.u 'v ifu i.'.ii l f'V in '• a •" vii»'i :
■»••..:■.'• •.!■" -r:i.- 1:- v.- l:-'! ••'.:. ii-'. '.III.:.- I.! iilfil. ■•riii'i • :;: li* vu»
u'\ s.. : '■: V : ii**:: i ^' :.-■■• vii.. • i.i'"V '..-'ii
"":!* : ' :: "..: '..:.: i.;i ;» ■ . ■ — j ■* :•• .♦_ ♦ "'^ - — ■ " ' }.. \
1 ' :•• . ■.; .. •.: 1. -■'■i :..: • >: i .'.:- '.I- "i'.U' : :-"'",ii.Af" : :i- ii iv. 'Vi-' ::iLi"ir
' v: . ■•. ■,•■■ ; ■■—;.• -.:; i
■ ■.. . . ■ :< »■■
■•.■■■:;•.::■■■: ■ .■ -..":■ v.- ., ■ /»■■: ■•■ •
.* V i. . 111..- .i:.:i '1 .:•• '::;..■ ■ ." : * i^
2142 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Also warranty deed from Wah hah keth hah and wife to Ida B. Bentley, N. i SE.
^sec. 13, T. 10, R. 3 E. of the Indian meridian. This deed was acknowledged before
the same notary public as the deeds above mentioned, and was filed for record in the
office of the register of deeds in Pottawatomie County on the 6th day of July, 1906. The
consideration shown by the deeds above mentioned is the same as shown oy the deeds
for the same tracts taken on the 7th day of March, 1905. There is nothing to indicate
that these deeds are in any sense trust deeds; but they are, by their terms, warranty
deeds.
On page 11 of Mr. Bentley' s testimony before the Senate Cx)mmittce on the 23d day of
March, 1906, while the matter of these deeds was before the committee. Senator Gam-
ble, among other things, said to Mr. Bentley, "Would it not be well, especially as
charges arc made against vou, that a formal declaration of trust in some form should bo
made by your wife and tne other parties who hold these lands, so that in case of their
death or otherwise those Indians could not bo robbed, or that they — your wife or the
other parties — could not wll or dispose of the property, if they felt so disposed, and
absolutely hold the funds and rob the Indians? Mr. Bentley replied, ** I want to say,
Senator, frankly, that I shall be glad to follow out any suggestions. I want to protec-
the Indians. I have taken this trust and I want to bo tnie to it. 1 have boon with the
Indians fifteen years and expect to be with them as long as I live. I lived on the front
tier twenty-four years, and I like the Indians and I like the frontier as they do".
The taking of these last six deeds in the form of warranty deeds instead of trust deeds,
and that, too, after the su^estions made by the Senate committee that there should
be some record made showing that these lands were conveyed in trust to Mr. Bentley
or his agents, and that, too, after Mr. Bentley expressed his willinafnoBs to follow the
BUffgestions made by the Senate committee, does not indicate good faith on the part
of Mr. Bentley. If the former deeds had been taken Ic^gitimatoly and in good faitn, it
Mems to me that it would have been unnecessary to have gone to the expense of
taking other deeds substantially of the same form, but if these last deeds had been
trust deeds it would be a circumstance that Mr. Bentley was attempting to carry out
the suggestions of the committee to which ho so readily consented at the time of
makingnis statement to the committee.
Whether any consideration was given to these Indians for the last deeds I am unable
to say, as I have not seen the Indians since the de<?ds were made, except th(^ doods of
Ne con o pit, Kish ken ie quote, and Wah hah koth hah, which were filed for record
July 6, 1906, but I knew nothing about their execution until I reachcni Tecumseh on
my return from Mexico.
I interviewed all of the 7 Indians from whose land the restrictions against alienation
had been removed by act of Congress of date March 3, 1906, between the 14th day
of July and the 21st aay of July. Prior to that date they had refused to talk with me
or discuss matters in wnich Mr. Bentley and they were interested. When I did get
them so they would talk to me, they would not sign any statement for me for fear of
trouble it would bring on thorn by displeasing Bentley.
Bentley's influence with nearly all of these Indians would not amount to anything,
in fact they distrust him, except for Wah pe che quah, Bentley's chief, O ke mah,
Noten, ana Kish ken ie quote, of whom I have? heretofore spoken, and who kc'op th(;
balance of the tribe in fc»ar of a violation of tribal laws made by these; four Indians.
To illustrate, on July 15 I drove to the Indian camp and took with me the checks
signed by Mr. Thackory in payment of their lease money for lands in Oklahoma. When
I reached camp I found tuat those four Indians had nad a council meeting the night
before and ha<f the Indians so scarecl that hardly one of them would take their money
except in secret and on assurance to them that if they were not paid all the lease money
due It would be paid at some other time.
Bentley and his agents told them that he (Bentley) had been sent to Mexico by
the United States to make their payments, and that Mr. Thackory had stolen ail
their lease money for two or throe years back and that they must not take any money
fmm Mr. Thackory, but must wait, and the money would be sent to him and he would
pay them all that was duo.
When I wont to leave camp in the evening, there were Indians along the road out
side of camp waitinjaj for nw who wantotl their lease money, and whom 1 paid. They
said they wore afraid to accept it in camp whore anyone could sc»o them, for these
four Indians would get ma<l and might hurt them. Wah pe sos(; was one of the Indians
who went outside of camp and waited for me in order to get his check and not let
them know about it.
The iKwon Indians from whose allotments the restrictions to alienation were n»movod
by act of Congress dated March 3, 1905, were constantly looked after and influenced
to such an extent by Bentley and his agents that I could not get to see them or talk
to them during all the time from the wth day of May until the 14th day of July.
J tried in m&ny ways to get to see them, and even sent for them several times, by order
AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2148
ol the authorities, asking them to come to Muzquiz and testify before the court, but
they would manage some way not to come. Sometimes they would leave camp and
be gone when I would reach there, and would also be gone when the officer wim the
summons would go to camp. If they happened to come to Muzquiz, they would
be made drunk by some one before I woula set to see them. I finally got statements
made to me by them, but each one seemed to be afraid that Bendey would find it
out and he would be angry with them. They wOuld not sign a paper for me for this
reason. The statements made are as follows:
Statement ofOhe mah made at Muzquiz, Mexico, July 16, 1906.
I am a Kickapoo Indian and live in Mexico.
I have an allotment in Oklahoma. I know Mr. Martin J. Bentley. At Ea^e
Pass over a year ago Bentley told me that if I wanted to eet land and live in Mexico
I must sign a paper he had by touching the pen. He told me that the president of
the villa of Muzauiz said that I could not buy land in Mexico unless I touched the
rm for Mr. Bentley. I do not know what I sieved. I only touched the pen twice,
never signed only two papers, and I signed tnem at the Border National Bank, of
Eagle Pass, Tex. I have never receivea but $500 from Mr. Bentley or anyone else
for this land. Bentley told me he put the balance of the |5,000 in the Border National
Bank. I wanted it placed there. The money was used to buy land in Mexico. My
wife received $300 for her land. She was to receive $8,000. Bentley said he had
placed the balance of the money in the Border National Bank, of Eagle Pass, Tex.
Bentley told me had bought a piece of land in Mexico for which he said he paid $21,000
in Mexican money, and he told me he had this land deeded to me and my wife. Ne
con o pit and wife, Wah noc a the and wife. Noten and wife, Kish ken nic ie quote
and wife, and Tahpah she. It was a part of the San Francisco plantation, and each
was to pay an equal share. Two of these deeds I never signed, and they are forgeries.
I am afraid to do anything; about this matter, on account of Bentley. I made no
complaint to Mexican authorities about Mr. Thackery or Mr. Outcelt interfering
or disturbing our camp or any of our people. They in no way interfered with us, ana
had not been in the camp at the time said complaint was made. Bentley told me
there was $3,000 in the Border National Bank, at Eagle Pass, Tex., deposited for me.
Ne con o pit, on July 15, 1906, at the Indian camp stated to me.
That he came to Mexico because he was treated very bad in the United States and
did not want to live there. Was told by Mr. Bentley that in Mexico the Indians
could make their own laws and would not be molested by other authorities, and
especially the United States. That he has not sold his land in Oklahoma, but that
he signed what he supposed, and what Mr. Bentley told him, was an agreement to
trade for land in Mexico. That he received no money at that time or since.
That as yet he has received no money or land in exchange for his Oklahoma land.
That he is afraid at this time to do anything about it, but wants to wait and learn
what Mr. Bentley is going to do about it. If ne does not get his land in Mexico, then
he wants to take such action as will protect his rights.
No ten stated, on July 20, 1906, that he came to Mexico believing the Mexican
Government would return to him certain land that they had occupied before. That
he had land in Oklahoma which Mr. Bentley said was worth $2,000. That about a
year ago he signed a paper for Bentley and was told at the time that it was a paper for
the exchange of his Oklahoma land for land in Mexico. That at this time Bentley
gave him $100. That he supposed this was given as the difference between the value
of the Oklahoma and Mexican land. That he has never received any land or money,
but that he thinks Bentley will do as he agreed to do.
Tab pah she stated on the 17th of July, 1906, that she came to Mexico with some of
her people and because she wanted to be where she could live in the Indian way.
That she signed a paper at Eagle Pass, Tex., about a year ago for Mr. Bentley, but
'" ' ^ . .. ^ . ^ •• . "". Bentley to give her a piece of
did not know what it was, but supposed it was for Mr. ^
land in Mexico in exchange for her Oklahoma land. That when she touched the
pen Bentley gave her $300 in Mexican silver; that she imderstood it was lor to
Duy provisions and clothing and was not in payment for her land. That she hai not
received any land in Mexico, but she does not want to do anything about it vm^\
Gnde out what Bentley will do.
Wah puck we che stated on July 15, 1906, at the camp nr-
came to Mexico because she believed she could live hero «•
about one year ago she signed a paper for Bentley at the '
at the Indian camp near Muzquiz. She did not go i'
was a man with Bentley when she signed; ahe don't ?
know that she was signing a deed, but suppO0e4 ft IIP
2144 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
might give her land in Mexico. That at the time she touched the pen Bentley
gave her $200 Mexican, but not in payment for the land. She supposed it was a loan.
Ah no tha hah quah, wife of Ne con o pit, stated on July 16, 1906, that she signed
a paper for Bentley at Eagle Pass about a year ago but don't know What it was, but
supposed it was a paper in order that Mr. Bentley might jpY© them land in Mexico.
At that time Bentley gave me $200 in Mexican money. She is a woman and has no
education and does not know why he gave her this money.
Kish ke nic quote stated to me on July 14, 1906, that he came to Mexico to live,
because there he could live in the old Indian way and not be molested by anyone,
and because there was lots of game. That about a year ago he signed two deeds for
land, one at Shawnee, Okla., and one at Ea^le Pass, Tex. Mr. Thackery paid him
about $3,300 American money for the deed he signed at Shawnee, but he never got
anything for the one signed at Eagle Pass. That Mr. Bentley was to give him land
in Mexico for the paper he signed at Eagle Pass, Tex. He has received no land in
Mexico yet, and (Toes not know at what time he will get it or where or how much
he will get. He thinks Bentlev will get him the land, out he has no contract either
written or verbal as to when, where, or how much land he is to get or any understand-
ing as to its value.
Thi the quah stated to me that when she came to Mexico she did not come there
to live, but only to visit some of her relatives. That about a year ago at Eagle Pass,
Tex., she signed some papers for Mr. Bentley. That she was told by him that these
papers must be signed in order that he might procure land in exchange for this land
in Oklahoma. That she received no money from Mr. Bentley and did not know at
that time that she was signing a deed. Tnat she did not sell her land, but after-
wards learned she had made a deed for the same. She thinks Bentley will do as
she intended for him to do, although she has no agreement with him as to the pur-
chase of land in Mexico.
Wah nah ke the hah, Muzquiz, Mexico, July 15, 1906, stated to me that he came
to Mexico to live because of the bad way in which the United States treated him.
That he understood from Mr. Bentley that he might live in Mexico, and there the
Indians could make their own laws, and would not be bothered by any laws except
those made by the Indians. Mr. Bentley told him that if he wanted to live in Mexico
he must trade his land in Oklahoma for land in Mexico. He told him his land in
Oklahoma was worth $10,000, but that he could not get money for this land, but could
only trade it for land in Mexico. That he signed no deed or other paper at Eagle
Pass, Tex., in March, 1906, but had prior to that time touched the pen lor Mr. Bentley
to make his mark to a paper that he supposed was an agreement to tra<le his Okla-
homa land for land in Mexico. That this was done at the camp near Muzquiz, and
at the time Mr. Bentley gave $200 Mexican to him. That he nas not sold his land
in Oklahoma, and will not do so, but will trade it for land in Mexico. That he has
as yef received no money or land in Mexico, but will be satisfied if Mr. Bentley will
do as he agreed. That he don't want to do anything about it until he sees what
Bentley is ^oin^ to do. That he don't want, at this time, to take any action in the
matter, as it nught hurt him, and that Bentley would get mad. Thai if Bentley
don't carry out his contract, then he wants something done about it. That he has
no wrilten contract with Mr. Bentley as to just what Bentley will do in this matter.
Thcflo Htat('ni<»nt« arc substantially the same as made to special inspector Dickson
a year ago, when hv was in Mexico.
All of thcHo 7 Indians are uneducated, ignorant Indians- can not read or write,
and can talk but littk* English, and are just the kind of characters as to be easily
imposed upon and defrauded by any designing person who would be able to influence
them either by ^'etlini^ their confidence or by placing them in fear or duress.
It irt evident from the statements of the Indians that none of them intended to sell
their Oklahoma lands, but did intend to trade them for lands in Mexico.
In nearly every case Bentley, at the time of signine the deed, gave the Indian a
small amount of money, but not in payment for nis land. These Indians are, and
were at that time, in destitute circumstancefl, and a small amount of money would be
a sufficient induc^ement to get them to sign almcjst any paper, and especially would
this be true where their knowledge of its terms was obtained from the statements of
one deniring to obtain the signature. Such person, as was the case here, could make
any reprenenUition he saw fit U) make, and tne Indian could not and would not know
its contents, except from such statement.
One can go among thes<i Indians and prf)cure the signature of many of thcjm who
can neither read or write, by paying them money, and they will at the time be satis-
fied with the statements there made as to the contents of the instrument siCTied.
Early in July one John Pecan and a few other Indians went to Eagle Pass, Tex.,
and after tlieir return I had a conversation with John Pecan and others, and was told
by them that they had not sold their land. John Pecan stated that Bentley had loaned
MTw^mB <<9r TBE igii:irriic kholatod ismuam. fl-IS
'^'wi xF "SBWr tarn idser 'Sdm !i« iok aaiic- mp Faom a "ABofi 'sok £b£ iic ^Sas- fd&Df-
IL 2 i-. ^uxiL P^ftao: -u IT. IT. IiPSL ISft- ^twC jgymmfl ia aaait^ %»ifHE ArikmarjaQgirf
4IL i;iiv be Qsrr uf J'urr 2M»L^ %ffaiii% IK*^ 3^ IknmeL. JB ijifiif ^HE. T«L^ sd£ hok :SM
ioF s^r.-orc .^irT H 2MiL sue lai^ tniiHin]»aQaEiL hoe «bi his 3i> ^^it &«£ jk SLiMl
1l "aifi^ 11U. mnauJnL f^^caoi susiC ii< sk- "Sbc i*(- ^ib£ hmc fuS£ ^i» IbsL bm 'Sas
liii^ imc 7e3iBK«£ 11 iPfiL. jcuc iai£ sieiH^ as daafi iir SsEEitfj ir JBrvmHr^^K:.
I lAt >*sni^ if -ai^^ fhnr of -^ osfed. jm^ ip^hc I -bM inni -fSoB ^afi infaL 4iidc-
snc i«H£*fC TiTTT r iH^ fsnniiC mMi*^ a AgiflMa. saaamsafi if 'Sif' Tinniirir ]bK- 9<qiyBd. ^M
77m. -vil iftpr ni^ fQf jyiiL lUEx jiK^asf* -aif- fiSBsmeiiL. Aoned I idll -sfoi ioL "
'Ttiw. i WiHPtfC 11 tti.. jott iif' Sic aim a^ 1^ ^bbbodsebl
H^ Mm ii9B«ffC K -noc -SEOMt. \j |sj!ni^A lizEif- amiiR^r I <cdiM « JBijj
jpWQR III 'Ui4^ i^nii^ iir l»exi^Hn- jmc Qifi aim isx^^ '^Snt Jiixn f^iiQBi
^en^H^ 7^i^7>: ^ X. 'j^i^ai^soit ir fiaoBzusixi jcsxK^iaC *&< jdl ^m mifr itf iSkm- -^fBdr
* TiimL Ifnt*^ i»Hiur airj swutl hl laca. mm. ^ ^ I ignsbc: 1^ Tir^^iift- jmg JftecjiQBL
JLii!iifcg*'»i iinirimra. im£ I nui^ "^k^ cmnfiixK if '^m- ajjuixl dffffC jouipx h :aflmit^ if
*^^laa^ Mxki: 3xk x aoK^ .r'
L. M. '.♦ffniTTL-
:r^ f r 2•.'^■3
* ffWurL 11 uitL fli-iiinnJiHfC i#rfu5^ in?^ -^ut 7^ qbx if MarnL JL X'* 2W^
Til* fi23arir««^ -*» -;:i»* ttH*ft» uy^. iil iirn twi. viaiewfft 17 V S 2iinii«*»i sue B.. M.
Ti-» .' aa liliii* &L Luwiau**. onii^^^i. laicim. "viii. xirt^-si9rnp¥m?T
oi>*:» 4*. li- -im»i^ v^ii*?! ii* * n. 7»?ii?»mi«ni nut ih^ an. ii*flS*€r 3«Bt anr urmt jmc ii
vjuii ii*-««airr7 iiiLiw^ ^niHiii*^ '-mijc siiDy^'a^iiait'M "art- luQiBiif "a* caxi&HniF if 'Sic-
trt«*t» to*^ Mi*^- v*rr»- €33uiiii*f»c 11 TiTiT 15- iiHtniifj ir Aamf nuf- ««:- H* -wiiiiiC tw jk
SOL iirr-^i "i: '-ini'iiuu* ^nic iinn. IChht * ibrsc uitm^nn^T W" ^en&f^ n? m* tat toft-
cnir. vu'x ii* D »t» T'aiiilT- bul -infflSHinih . wi^ in knnvfl^op^ tt ti -viae iit » Quhi^
ii» ^nniSb'^i'.n* ▼-rii "ni*s** liiLLita» jzui'vt: 11 z^ ^^strm^nnafan "^jsi iif- ImF awn AfTiBC
iiiTiH«n7 uiic n m*\*t iKJO. ii*irMf 11 ■in- GtnsHaxmBn: wn iSHr ihidMaK. Sjt- ■itwtf *
ii«mf *4'. "-I1* •^Tiir.*^ riiiiiiiinv!f»- bt*^ h: TTHcanKft- AJii* "Sh- iitTTBF at anaarr ^ars if jcu
Hilt ir.ni.": > ■; n r»D*r*ni-* ii zii*r zjit*: if "ai^ iBuc jnn^iamgc at Mechn aaic ai "ftifr sxutnafi
iJiiit 1 r -.!!* Sinn Tii**^ «ur«^mH?im "nruc aiu: tBBrmr t«et anaiM- tiifniini^fisHSj ir
▼Tiiii'ir cuwnir "iii'ir iiiwrj f wi i» Tfnif^semicaia: satt «Hi^ni*?n» i-i "&* Xsb-
3'jKi uiniirrr,!** "j.!^ Zjur.iint* iL7^?«ii huc rnai^at. "^ih: "^tf- Taiii-'fC *R3Hi»* *>ini«3iineiii
liHi *^nr i.m '♦ ^i^-'tj'" "i- wy j'fi**** ai«iin*n^ mic jkhc aninifn- kuc tm^* ffwansiC rtigfff^
if zii'. liiinnif v^r* nai:** V7 nnr ti*iih»»!!Mi*£*T mic aiyaii*fCiiiH**ftI'7 lan^wuir ^^mbsl
V. z*^ 11^^ Tit^ ir^f-u-rur .r ^ii* iiTt**r *s.'iiutiinr Ifc" l^**???- aiic arrps*^ arriit
'r> m m 1 1: 1 ^ ■ n;'. nir v:.i -ii^ luLiinrt- Y^at uuffft in»iEL aiuif* ir.in*mt**ira^ i»*f»jHifl#i^ v* line
mr i»^n 1 'ij* Ii.i.uii 0*111: it 1; :Ui* umi* :ji* «mi* v» auuD* 3tr ^i»* "^mrx,. h
7^7}n:\i.->i' r-iij^TLiL-i. vi« -*:tii6*5!^ kT •iiimi*** Cftfik. BUL viii viif. ainifgfrr jl "Uh-
fitjt - V \it V I J. 2.^1.^*7 v'ii*Ti 'At*: ±sw. liiUtait 5«inini**c 11 M*is:i'*i. nut I»^ini*7'
lii^i , - ..— . f , t' . - .-i >.^, I-* 1,* -^r^ r*mii^'*'t lit MB*nrL 11 judu!^ iit*^^ "iia.imtt 11
ff'. r^ >1 ::ii .ii'TL Uii-' 111*7 v.iuiL mn t»* amii^ss*^ 'L1«s*. imi ^miiic ir^* jl ":irt-
iiiL -JiiLaj V ; - uiii '-liii" ui*7 viJUiL iiir i»» ffin«n»**t 1-7 K17 JL^wT *!i-"*nr ^liUB^ in
-ni*"!- T-i nn.r!TX- j^r i -ii*7 -*rnaini*fC n 'lirt' Tiii*«: Tfia*>» ijm'JT rniiitrrgL uaiC
niTT-^ *r*r.»^ii.l ' U!-T :».^-* V uUiL i»* "ahiisL Kvrsx anuL "aitm. mit 4f*m: 1; «^i«£ Hut
*^ ^nriLL^ ' V uaL lu ' * '«. r^^ ir iii* f."TL7' iisxK M*aii'Ji init i ffm»c •nnixnrT nut xomi*
Tnir 'uTi: s..ii: 2»*.'ir-i*'7 v^»?»^ 11 W 7«r3«» But vew- 11 timttH- uL iiniii» a-Twrry
uu: :r -.ij* . . .: i -i 1 'ji-ert** lutiuoH- IT 3fi*3a!n Tub: ai»i»in ihh- ^near uci vihji x
iH-.-uiii* * iii-'ii Uiii ui*sft ^t'^^n iQ^-'-w- ir imit !-oiat i»* "sanwras^ft. 3fer TTmn: uc^tisbc
-Lii* i«ir.*!r:i4 iir. . l "innnt^ or uzTusmBXi: « '^iK lueiFt tniuic tit- an -n TimTrifMyrr^^nfryy
2146 APFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
about the matter with the Indians. Mr. Bentley replied, ''We will not do that, but
we will go ahead and get these deeds and after we get through we will give them what
we don't want." Clark sayB he protested against this manner of procedure, but
Bentlev said, "No; we wiU just go ahead and when we have got through with this
we will give the Indians what we don't want, and they can not do anythins; about
it.'' Clark said he would have nothing more to do with it unless there could be a
contract made to this effect. This he refused to do, and Clark withdrew from the
enterprise. The three Indians, to wit, O ke mah, No ten Kish ke nee quote, who,
with the assistance of Wah pe che auah, do more to keep these Indians in complete
subjection to the will of Bentley tnan all other influences combined, have deeded
all their property to Ives and Mrs. Ida B. BenUey, and are now wholly at the mercy
^f Bentley so far as getting the actual necessities of life go. Thev, too, are on the
council, and, as I have said heretofore, largely control the actions of the Indians. At
any time one of these Indians fail to comply with the demands of Bentley they are
taken to task in such a manner that they rctftdily comply with these demands, even
though it is against their desire. I here attach the copies of statements of several
Indians, indicating the manner and character of Bentley' s great influence over them,
and also submit originals marked (Exhibit No. 5).
The statements are as follows:
Statement by Chaw ho tot^ on June 5, 1906j at Muzquiz^ Mexico.
I have lived in Mexico for four years. Have an allotment of land near Shawnee,
Okla. M, J. Bentley asked me to si^ deed for my land to him on June 3 and 4, 1906.
at the Kickapoo camp near Muzquiz, Mexico. I refused to sign deed and he told
me if I did not sign the deed he would put me in jail and keep me there until I did
sign the deed. Bentley did not offer to pav me for the land. Bentley had all the
Indians at our camp on Saturday, June 2, 1906, called together, and he made a speech
in which he stated that all of tne Indians must sipi deeds to him for their lands in
Oklahoma or he would put them all in jail. He did afterwards have several arrested
and put in jail.
Chaw kg sot (his x mark).
G. A. OUTCELT.
L. C. Grdces.
Muzquiz, Mexico, Juju 5, 1906.
Statement of Puck ke shin no^ a Kickapoo Indian, a resident of Mexico for two years Uut
prior to this date.
I own 80 acres of land near Shawnee, Okla. T. I have lived with the Kickapoo
Indians near Muzouiz, Mexico, for two years. I came because my iath» urged me to
come to Mexico. M. J. Bentley told me on June 3, and 4, 1906, at the camp, he wanted
me to sign a deed for my land in Oklahoma, and when I refused he orderea me to leave
Mexico at once or he would have me arrested. Bentley had already had Etha Douglass,
Steve Mohawk, Henry Murdock, Mack Johnson, Chaw ko sot, and Ah ne ^e nen ne
arrested because they refused to sign deeds for their lands in Oklahoma to him. He
told me I must either sign the deed or leave Mexico or go to iail. He did not offer to
pay me any money for two years, but did not say how mucn. Bentley made Mack
Johnson leave without his family by threatening to keep him in jail, as he was then in
jail.
Puck ke (his x mark) Shin no.
G. A. Outcelt.
L. C. GmifEs.
Statement of Ta pah she, made at Muzquiz^ Mexico, June 6, 1906.
I am a Kickapoo Indian and my name is Ta pah she; I am a married man; I am
acquainted with Martin J. Bentley; I saw him last evening, June 5, 1906, at our camp
near Muzouiz; he told me he wanted me to sign a deed for my allotment near Shawnee.
Okla., and when I refused he said if I did not sign he would have me arrested and
thrown in jail; he said he would keep me at Muzouiz until I did eden; he made no offer
to pay me anything for my land; I laid out in tne woods last ni^t for fear he would
have me arrested as he had several other Indians arrested prior to that time.
Ta pah (his x mark) she.
Geo. a. OuTCEi;r.
Joseph Clark.
AWVMMas or the majr^y kktkjipoo nniiAjrsu 3147
i M Hfiaer AiwieujL: I joi a Kwriigipw In&a and I Ei^ ia Mexk^ I mat
i<a IS 'J9K' 'fam^ aaeis: '<'^ ^^it mur vx ifte- &hc »?ieeal ds;^ BcoeS^ ^vsoscd
■K- %' «gtt 9Hiiie- pawls'- I wm "KX. toU wioe iiad «f aa stBCnnBOH ic- -rrairrf ise-
i^c ht -wr.ti^ jisd 3X1*- v.> Mji«yifcLi. itsbM dbe- {KikiisKBi aaidzim mtt zs |i^ de jfa:-
ss^ -dixK inr -¥^-^1 smJae- lut wMk jS lie 'pajrv:- M-Eig^-Lii 2 1 ^i 3ki5 tot,,. I ±zaSiT
fPB5K*i ilbfr Titc*5r i'jT BifasiSsy wMit -Eafe- jn^mtc. Bs- «&5 at^i; ex|Jbbzs. jud i ^^^ nei
fcainr -riiK: zijt ;&g<g -tm, Tia» -raff ^:ii«: sifoi^ naut lua -»»««_ BtsszJey ;kfii& s:M
fkt i^. -itii 32i»- -jrrtK: ii?- -vm r^.ojr v.- «!iii 3ej stiKzn^ wt:^ ^.1:213$ i.> EjbSs- Fme. T^-r
iir i-izL. -rii. i_ti 2*:n 'c^yw ^idC **aey <>€iJ" wing I -lad 3r>n iza:**- -^^sk I sriftfL
I ixk"* t»**»^l. liriiji -: -i^'ti irrii *arp-<ie ifct^rSS '»-g» *w»crrjy &S!£jfty llM b*(HL ^TiTI^
vsk & S^^niH^ iTit^BT vi^tB2&L aoufi Aasft FKasa. fter less i« li^^K ^se-^iM s^
iigafatfc '^' t^ T:ibi0!-. vsA %t \mk \mxm. Kvinr wsM \es m. idbe saBe ^iscs vwvj ^jm.
Rm
r: V. ISf^zdntj k3^ fort a psper. He au- sad i? iej w^ %^ 2^# laii ^^ i&af
gifcggr- IT'S- V,r^ 9^i29^i «i 2^;-. m%^ c&e <^ps&& me& fxa^e «r> ss a^ vsase* -» 1&
T^^^TL '"tbiTi*- izif irT»^«^i iLT^i^ Ji2»i ir^ jsiii ^:^^ -£» %> v^ioe Boacky 'ssii. Binder
"ai»»i "iit.i "It* r' V-?- iji 2i:n flcgx i2Le pftjiEr S:r ikrp !te w^^^Ead JBiui la •: itxas^Tzr ;^bd
iirr^~ in^k—'j *E£2i^t "^i«»- pfc?*sf 5-f B<hic&pt- W* «iijtt 2i:c zhis, *^«^- -^v- 3*:*: 2i:'¥' ia&^w
w^iu.". li**" ptc*^ ■»*■ «iE3»i "F'iii^ We *i^i acii wxu: *-> ara la^ 5ttf«r_ h^iz iii «: s^^asiae
▼»• vrTr- lirii^i Bi^ndifrj imi^i sns -as m JisS nf !«■ m^i ht wii^. «4:^. He hid. yrisr
V. iZlot. t:ir^ ir!r»5E«is ii^-'ptseaii <>- c me ladESUK tmA fm: limmt m fid M^ JkBte^Jsz ami maiAt
rnixa^ \i -JuiCL v:rx -.a. Ti^ «c?»«j TEaiasr ru^^ -'.c iS* pr&-.e^ Be 1^^ 'ic?«BK««i -ys^
2Le I ii~^. ix'X, '.x^jL w iy^farst A. OKcde ^sr jb£j OL^as* nsse aas^ jad SiHS sec Borvie'
lifc^xif": -X L& -^:n^i jc7«s zue- jad Stfiv ne tiM^ imi psc sje rL ^i^ He zuikJe ske
Ac TX2K UK ki»X3LtKiL
2148 AFPAIBS OP THE liffEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
The next morning a policeman came to my camp and said Bentley wanted me to
come and sign a paper for him, I said, ** No, I will not sign." The policeman then
left me. The policeman returned again, and I again refused to sign the paper. The
poUcebian left again, and in a short time he again returned with Roman Galan's
man servant. They took hold of me, one on each side, and forced me to ^o to where
Bentley was. When I reached there I refused to sign the paper. The policeman had
hold of one of my arms and Gralan's servant a hold of my otner arm. While holding
me in thb position, Galan's servant struck me on the head with a large pistol. My
wife and several of my f emsde relatives were there, excited and crying, so I signed the
paper Bentley wanted me to sign. They did not read the paper to me, and I did not
Know what it was, but supposed it was relating to iny land. I did not want to sign
this. He told me I must not talk to L. C. Grimes. He also told me I must not leave
Mexico; that in case I left Mexico I could not return to Mexico, but would have to
stay away from here.
Mack Johnson.
Statement by Pa pea thep pea, a Kickapoo Indian^ made at Mmquiz, Mexico, June 26,
1906.
I am a Kickapoo Indian, and live in Mexico with m)r family. I came to Mexico
from the Territory of Oklahoma, United States of America. I have an allotment of
land near Shawnee, Okla. I am acquainted with M. J. Bentley and W. S. Field.
That on or about June 4, 1906, 1 was in my tent at our camp near Muzquiz when Wah
rj che quah came to me and asked me to go to Bentley and sign the paper for my land,
did not go and sign the paper. John Fecan then came and saia, ^' Bentley wants
you.** Bentley wanted me to sign the paper. I told John Pecan to tell Bentley I
was not going to sign thejMiper. Noten then came, and seemed to be mad, and I told
him I would not sign. Then a Mexican came to me carrying a ** six-shooter,'* who
grabbed hold of me by the arm. He pushed me ahead of him and made me go to
where Bentley was. Bentlejr asked me if I would sign. He said there are two roads
here. Bentley asked me which I wanted to sign, and I told him I did not wish to
sign either one. Bentley said, *' Where are you going to live if you do not sign those
two papers? *' He designated one paper and said if I wanted to stay in Mexico I must
sign this paper, but if I did not want to stav I might sign the other. I touched the
pen for him, and I do not know what I made my mark to. Bentley then said, *'We
will all be friends now.** I did not then and do not now know what this paper was,
but understood at the time that it was about my land in Oklahoma. Bentley did not
offer to pay me anything for my land.
Pah pea (his x mark) thep pea.
Statement made by Wah theck ko na hah, July 21, 1906.
I am a Kickapoo Indian, and I live near Muzquiz, Mexico.
I went to Eagle Pass recently, and I saw Mr. Martin J. Bentley. W. S. Field was
there. Bentley offered to loan me some money — I did not ask for any money. Bent-
ley handed me $750 while I was in bed at tne hotel. The Hotel Reogrande is the
name of the hotel. Bentley told me not to sell my land, but I could pay him l>ack
sometime. I signed two papers there at that time; there was no else present except
Ida B. Bentley, Roman Ualan, John Mine, and two other Indians. 1 do not know
what I signed, but did not knowingly sign a deed for land in Oklahoma. I am reliably
advised that the paper signed was a deed for my land. I want the United States to
bring suit in my name to set aside said deeds or deed for the reason they were fraud-
ulently obtained, and I want the court to appoint a guardian for me for the purpose
of bringing this suit, and I here give him full power and authority to bring said suit
and do all thincs I could do to prosecute said action to final determination.
I had been offered $10,000 for my land. Bentley told me I could not sell my lan<l
without going to court, and he (Bentley) would make the application to sell.
Wah theck ko na hah.
g. a. outcelt.
William Murdock.
MFTJtSSm fM im WiyiTAlP KBCKAf^OO IXMURft. 9149
iMdi aL ^vkfaonma. I -viff is E^^ Rhk T-^x^ 'PnwociT'. jai£ mm Mr^ K J. '
WLS. FaHit- 1fe?t B^wdt*^ Sbkimiia ^kiuHi^ amt 4f&«9 -ywiii- ^«K!^
«iff»r-^i»^TLii:'^ai^':uim. I tut tini: iziifw w^ac ocuoft. l*&iimm9Mm^^aBd.imi
aUvt iniir. ^igTTirtg' -^ t^vt. T^ '^smI wait nhaaau^ fbmit sii!' fewM6ifemiy^ I <9a.
fe' 3ii>r ji iTj isimi^ uift I uvt^r2S>t mjT mat yf— ^^^^ % 'in jD?f ami ilE ^Bom I <sniiM
S»
:^ krnj.ofi ic 'nndK^ 'liTianif 15 5imf>r .nut tsasux wnas^fir OMtflflnrj >i Miffxaa^SuBL sm
"»asij*sa*»* ir^»*^nr. ir* jiij ^ruHntH. Tia j* **-Tao»arj*#t iiy am 'fKauii^ -visa. Wml ^iiwi
tmoL -lis laiUusL -*; "JS T^ lt*** 5vr -Ju* V. 5 5"3L ; imt -ht^ £. ♦ %%, i^^r^ 2ii. X Irt 5..
flnn^cur lEui -tir.»c vtil Tim R^itnaa 'Won 1^1* ^. 2.»»nci«*7. ii» tpos* imt ihiixL JIEne^
im tmiiC^Ti :iirv.*m»-»r.*r imt .ii*a uxr^janhit "Fiil '^aivic ii la. iaa nir. -*i fi»II am jioi£^
^r'Tmr Jira ir ',^1*^ «mi* ~iiiii* fr5il Kt*xLi'jaL 3ir.iii*T'. init oxRfli^ncmir «i!iu^ pao'fzs "K •^^
jQft v^Iiiur Tim OH^ "uiiit 1*7 im^a: ',ai»^ 3iriti**'x ir.im^raiu^- '^- JL B*mni*f: -pa* acn
mp^sn^nr. :ar .a VIL7 11. 'JM\*{ h viranrrr ti»f^ -v^i* iii**t ixL ':lu* ?«»fa&»r it tf^^^it ^iiKst^
»\ 2arf«r :#vM^ i»':aj:«v>Hi4c»it i«*6'.p»^ 5»'.iini*n. ^n "lafr ^*^ iaar if J'-if'Tr Sir jil a^ipamss
ixain- 'o. .'117 i J1*W. IT ±-wf*^ ?^i«t IT-^s-. B-*arJ^ 3L ^.nnmaaj -vs^ W, £. FfcM^
SSfunaxL '.-ouui. irut ^£^ 2>no^7 xar?"*^ JLx kis kai!:2C jil Jrftifiini |QM 3£ J^jmaieaB
!iiimf*7 mil *r;<l«l JTL 5t*:iii\in iu'.ni*7 uut 'tiut irrn ii* -vift ^lac ^uuxmi^ x Td %ffn Tfe
fcutiiui flicijvi t ^acf*r ir 'lai; -jm^. "''ti iriLT- >. 2WH. iwn wmesuscr ^^wf^f iwsr- ^fikiii
4t uut ii- di 'V'>tir*'t n ««iii* ta7 i#*a.r* Ti'.. JL 2»%nnp^ ^^^H^ aniife. Mbra^aaRk
*'#iiinrj 7 "^T. ". ri'^-»^7ma- -4-, Ita. 2 S^^aiit^^uifa 1 joci i ami mi»r 3ft '5 ««^ C T^ Ei S-^
ft. 1 i_ ji »r^iii mii, •inr^ Okfa. T!i^flR^ fHfHts <^ixr7»7 :^ afloisiBais
ini'k lait us vn* ?ia nm hni 'iu*. uut io^*>ai» "ii ia?:T«»^ 'uwa mi^ot^t iv %ii«&^ 15*
'JFin -.11^' f £> m liui uui Ai ns cu'x T*iniL «a&* :2ub: :ai»-r'&i rmc irIE ':^f!ar !bai€.
amt 'J^r mi^ 11111^7 it" *t. 'Ji^aL •:7 2**iirii*7' -va* Tnitwsmvwt iii i«- * ^!«a^ joii "»3* si
WM"^! '7 ir.u.
ant liar, it^ v .uiii tj r *•>■! vr.n ur. ir.»nxr -an; tiiirt T!ii» ffac^m^iic » ^xshiaiAst
^m "it^ ill": "liiT T ui -.if^'c t. la, iaft .117 ^famift aiL JBa»c»«: jtf jsl mt 21 im* \E
thi* f<t-a'r^ --U ^* ii^r ♦-': :i Miif t»^t .c ^-.a-T^T^nr*. Thf*7 T#if:a. fiar*»- -a^: Etm^ 2.\-
in ul iiar-.^^ ■' iiif"---: tt-.i .i>«i*>^ Inituina. mit ^imiax '^liaL aoit itiiux ]£im woipi
uL :;r'-^!**ir vif-i .:.- lu m^-; vi^ taiii uut -vtu*!! "Slr 3ao«!z» -w^^ sgnftft. im: -m anc
if 7*ftr> in.: v:. -i;! i iii-r-anr^** -5»iwru»?» m k mail fftai^ 'mi>r» S» » «iit ici '3ae^^:
faitiiuii* Z' liii* *j T j»"rLt^ .lie X -su* 3u»rTaaciift- %tifflTr«g Mut "tf^^mt "ii j»u; Ji lil
ii» ^nii'r it«=--*^. m X' 2»^rj'7 r^.h lii***: rirf^ang Jb* at iIii«2KSi'iii tt ii» nMrrntg
'tc a*a»:rur v- •. :.-':i I f*iu-i ':uu: *;m.»Hraimr ^'*T»?r 1. joar wn a tJ^rain %w.imusmi
EutuuT vr^uir. * .!»- liuui- c T ui "-lit !»*: iHitJi lisbt Ji "i»* lazuttf^ \t ICr ?^!rixiji: JL
T^'-c.^-^ ^: :♦-•- ^ •:-:-"." kill : «^#"':iu ::Hh»ir!«mr j«»fm ^ ,WW -nu^a ia»t i^^^n a»ut
5ip i>^ nn---^ n --".i.:! jmii n 'i/tcauunia. v. irtiiriL «»* vm m iii*ir Ih ^***»mfr ai*»
laft ii:r,;r.nq- 'a. u. '. -oiHr jiai ^ifi jitr^^iai. ^mPWKtm ic ::«iift annxsj <ak*i{^ ai ^cwsxc
2150 APPAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
herself to Mr. Thackery at hia office, establish her identity, and sign the necessary
receipt for the same, she lived in Mexico and Roman Oalan made a contract with
her tnat he would come to Shawnee, Okla., and assist her in the collection of the
money and she was to pay him the sum of $1,000 for his services. They came to the
agenc^r and Mr. Thackery paid her the money. They then went to Shawnee, and
while in the First National Bank there this Indian woman delivered to Roman Galan
all of the $6,000; tiiis was done in the presence of W. L. Chapman, the cashier of the
bank. Chapman lives at Shawnee ana told me of the circumstance.
While I was in Muzquiz, Mr. Alberto Guajardo, the chief politico, told me that
this Indian woman had made complaint that Galan had never returned any part of
this money to her, and that the only evidence that she had from him of the indebted-
ness was Galan 's receipt for 5 cents. Mr. Pablo Rodriguez, and a eentleman of high
standing in Muzquiz where he resides, informed me that this old Indian woman
made these statements to them, and that they saw the receipt for 5 cents given her
by Galan.
The chief politico wanted me to prosecute Galan in the Mexican court by suing him
for debt, ana as one may bo imprisoned in a suit of this kind, he thought we would
compel Galan to pay back the money. This woman not being an American Kickapoo
Indian, I refusecl to take any action in the matter,
That the $6,000 was paid to her the records of the Indian Department will show-
that Galan received the money in the First National Bank building of Shawnee, ana
that she holds the receipt signed by Galan for 5 cents is beyond doubt true; and she
says that no part of the money has been returned to her.
On July 11, 1906, while at Eagle Pass, Tex., this same Galan wrote a letter to his
brother at Muzquiz, of which the following is a copy:
"Border National Bank,
''Eagle Pass, Tex., July 11, 1906.
"Mr. Juan Jose Galan, Muzquiz, Mexico.
"Dear Juan Jose: It makes it necessary that you should speak personally with
O ke mah and other Indians and make them underBtand that everything Guajardo
tells them is a lie, and not to mind him in absolutely nothing. Also they should
not compromise themselves with the Shawnee wolves, because they have no other
view except to rob the poor Indians. Fortunately these animals, up to date, haven't
been able to fool more than two or three Indians, who are now sorry they have been
so miserably deceived. It is needless to discuss that the only person who is able
and who does protect the interest of all Indians is Mr. Bentley, who, among other
projects, has the very important one of buying considerable land for these Indians
when they will live contented with their families and caring for their animals. It
will l)e necessary for you to ask them to inform you, as they nave already been told
by the last council directed by Wah pah che quah. A few days ago the young man
partner of Mr. Fields left here for that place on a commission directed by llr. Bentley,
and Mr. Bentley and I recommend him to you and ask you to help him and advise
him in every way possible to the best of our advantage in the work that has been
recommended to him. I expect you to keep on writing everything new that happens
relating to the Kickapoo Indians. I also recommend you to do all you can, so that
these friends may come and sign the papers and receive some sums of money that
are here in the Border National Bank for them.
" As ever, your affectionate brother,
"Roman Galan."
The original copy of the letter and translation is marked "Exhibit No. 6" and
submitted herewitli.
Guajardo, mentioned in this letter, is the chief politico and the officer direi'ted by
the governor of the State of Coahuila to assist me. This letter follows out the plan
of Mr. Bentley to keep fresh in the minds of the Indians that he (Bentley) was going
to buy them lands in Mexico, and that they were not signing deeds when they
signed pa{)ers at ICagle Pass, for Galan asks his brother to ao all he can to induce
these Indians to come to Eagle Pass and sign p>apers and get some sums of money
that are in the Border National Bank for them. They haa been told that Bentley
would pay them money that had been held by the Grovemment for their surplus
Unds, and would also pay the lease money at this bank. This letter absolutely
bears out the statement of these Indians that they did not know they were signing
deeds for their lands in Oklahoma.
The young man referred to in this letter as the partner of Mr. Field is the E. P.
Ekmey of wnom I have spoken heretofore. He app^'anxl at the ofRce of Eduardo
EUaoadOy th» notary public who had taken the ackiK>wledgment of Celedonio Gralan
^or THK WFTanv KBcxjkP^o nxMASRE. nS\
4m&L <«kfCtaiiii «Ga^HD ar s ^sss^ua ^ ^^aoam wad J^ubc Jwt- KaoifaBL. amfi mbc Jwii
'doiji'^ b ^'^97 ^ "iitiif d^f^ intii sDj ^auttE. sf ^ &d ^. T'hfif ikniMBL in tfiniBsaaai
■^ait juscrumem.. loiQ jQI i^i^fiificafiii Mat wbnr im ^aruTmnn^^nR^ '^-^^f??' '^iov ^fkBKdOfr dns
la Mr. l>^nr^^ *■ inipuHnaiiiL-
Wiuj^. jiiicnusrj iniisr ludittnfc. and akw i»Tiiiti«inr«r oc Juml 2iliKi.%':£iBnasrT4diaB^
EfrOif Fase. Tes.^ Jwur t^ 2UUfL
lj^L,£jt. icn. I aiL jus jix Ttftni^ if a i^QE2.Qr iram jftr. IfisBr&zc i.. i&csr^lk^. w^^ » aui«r
jn Miis^un. %.^xi\i^ 19^1 «ra^ i^ac Mr. Y^smk^Bj js&d -di^ iTmiQrtfd Bekhf fl^ssoxs.
jEWEiitn^ inn'*: i»€«x 11 MimdkirK3L Mkxacm. loi^ «x iSiPr hsi^ ^'saanrMti li* 3wrarfie
anc imc m -^uiiffi*r uf «ii mjfi> m iksms:. «ic:^ ^l' Mapiju J- Ikanipr. I -idl] «^ rj^aa
'files* ar^ iiiiv . unc ian-*^^ t»H«L lor spx^oeb] z&uh^K;. 211 rnir TCKite "d*^ i\ddvm'Jai^ ^sqi^nE:
JL '.nnnm*^ ir «ui*^ iniiL C»akfQanii ^QuiBD "M' MLandii J ^mnikTr
Jlx itcrH>niHnn innr Mr . l^mcikT'. |m^|#e!frr i«'.ia:itxrj»«Q|iut.. idm: ^ fdH e^ffid 'M^'tigr&KXL
Tirt^ Q*wc iniiL '>ji»fQiiiut GuittL "M Mr. i*«nLi*n^ * ' 7«ci81«f«c it "^j* n&m- if
ItCuuroi TthssAmui b nifLurr ^mihv ^ Mnzguis.. M^aaLii. ip^r^ it jkD -fine x- nrgsarad
dkrc ir r»f-.r't». tiin d*»»fafc *?w:-. a*!- T»a:i«i*5?»fC *ftfiihrai»3in it uur affrjoBtKtd in "fiit^
ti&'r* if h uiRiarr iimiii'. duiT ausiiiKiatfd n j:fs|::»irfsr ^uttiK dwnunwntfc. Sac Mr.
m^nac iifcft^^ kuw -si^^l ^ikaBim- xl ^s^ftKXimip *»< 'dten* -vdns?^ i^kt* miiik€ £sd i: s^jorckefi
IR*^ tf^mprn^ -i^ zrmffof are HutfC tifwimc ^iMiaoit bebS ip^ &d oicb pi^ nuijasr if i&»
anim^j mrdl 'v^^ irr "lifr "^TerTifi'jait at^nxt- meinaniw^ inixii Mr ♦Gbobr '(!jis:^Iiiii£ 'S^m ifl»
jasi^^ w*r* iL '.TTtiflr
3 vH «;t -oiiST Mr 'Gaaa ^andlfiitt » «aif ic "te ^iBBttoiiini !l»sinEi«HF m nupfimm
MezDv: Kut im \nmu\ni » a'nj9jm«d ^»r all ?epir£ii^!ba»5 loscieB^ in -Qasa rsvnnxtsj.
Bt^ vttf iin: }TT»?«nr. viiSL "^ai "aw^ fc us 5a^ fiipie€ "3» ja^ta:. -itixi^ id>*g«ipfe
iiiC-iuL "-Till:; v^i "Wut zfb 'j^ vxxk VMsiL aii€ ^a^ ^ ^fe "Siin in SfcentS^nrf ciib^A ax]:€
:^i£r M* 2^.Tir:i*7' f 'iierx "iiut J'^'jai "diai i5 i«- and ISlihf ^^nlid isis^ ITi^ 1*?^ Ti* uub
uuuL "4 I-uri^ ?^u>?^ ii»^ v^".»Uit cr^ *su'^ it Tii*eiii €i' it M^sa^jan mitopr- "dur. iriisi; "aupr
TBa'-ni**: -5u'.»niii* T^ •_ 2.-,!ini»r: m*?: -^ibil 'laiB??' and yokt iiniisir la^fcnsF 1^ 'Ligftt^ Fhk.
Af r.#,ii ttt ui* -mil ^.a'%*c l»\nnj*r. am^i T^.sai iir Tn^ifflb 11 land, and i**- i^^ 'WtSt
iiHr :i.»nn .11 Ml* -'^^r i»*r-^^»«i ' ? itaif and Ewfk' ?*»» "v^isi^ "fe i2!arL m:n^
ciBRMEitf 'j&'-v;^ '( nifpffT'i im^^gm «f fHMniimF Sfi^ozMii HHmnod 19' 'ki '^i& ^ aiir qua
-WHsniTx a»KfC I'l! iftp iaut unr ^iaE9rxi>i^ yi IBT^ 'ST. ii«E. ▲t^t^.-orcinir ^ '^at ^anMUHic
jHHCi^ r. ';;iK3iL i^^ 1^ at ^ifr f.^ omt ^i£at fluai) kmbl SmBtuei ;jHtd donr li^'MteaataKL -m^Km.
^n* ""aiuaTatu iii*i'»?t til "ai* ianc vr ^^i^xEoqtBWeaxL jifOBBF » fe.W**. Ii "fe^ Jsomt
jcBBS3«c ii i*mmtr. iarpt " IR* s#tyif^»^ laMf- uaiffHR «r- |rw»c i^ynnd giHasLiun and
taxx iMOi -p^j ^\j^ mrr d Tint msBSf .' ^fihiL. fieain 'Sb»i« ;
2152 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
transfer of lands in Mexico, but fails to state it in full. As I have said heretofore, this
officer before whom these acknowledgments are taken keeps the original instnmient,
and if acknowledged before a notarv public he would have the record in his office.
There is a recording office known as tne land office provided for by law for the recording
of all instruments conveying land in that recording district.
If a grantee iaiU to record his deed within fifteen days after execution, should the
grantor sell to a third p2rty, who takes without notice of the former sale, he will be pro>
tected in his purchase. The first conveyance would be valid if not recorded as between
the ffrantee and grantor in the absence of a subsequent sale to third parties. This is
the law as given me by the district judge for the State of Coahuila and by the judge
of the first court of letters for the Monclova district.
The conduct of Mr. Bentley in his attempt to prevent the procuring of a copv of
this deed probably explains his failure to record the instrument as required by law.
This notary public having the only record, and he being in the employ of Bentley
as his attorney, Bentley would have a better chance to keep its terms from becoming
known to other parties.
As I have heretofore stated, Bentley while in Muzquiz had his office at Roman
Galan's place of business.
I here present a letter sent me by Mr. Frank A. Thackery, together with inclosure
from him, and statement by Tom Smith, which are marked " Exhibit No. 7."
This letter is certainly a foigery, as this Tom Smith nuiporting to have signed the
same can neither read nor write. He says he never saw tnis letter and never authorized
it to be written bv anyone. The Indian gju-1 therein mentioned has an allotment
near Shawnee, ana it seems that it was desired that she come to Mexico, probably
so that ehe could convey this land. The superintendent of the Carlisle Indian School
did not permit her to come, or at least she did not come.
This letter was written and mailed to said superintendent either by Bentley or
Field or some one else in Bentley's interest.
That Tom Smith could not have written the letter is certain, and it is almost a^
certain that he authorized no one else to write it. This letter bears date June 10,
and Bentley, Field, Eamey, and, I think, Roman Galan were all at Muzquiz on that
date.
On December 15, 1904, one Chester Howe, a lawyer, located in Washington, D. C,
inclosed to the honorable Commissioner of Indian Affairs a letter written on one of
the letter heads of Roman Galan, which letter reads as follows:
Raoma Galan, Comerciante y Comisionista,
Mexican Art Goods and Indian CuRiosmBS,
Muzquiz, Coahuilay Mexico, December 6, 1904.
SefLor Chester Howe,
The Capitol of the America^ Indian Attorney.
Dear Sir: Myself and my son are writing to you for having you to see the Indian
Attain Commissioner at Washington. We sifned a deed for tne sale of the allotment
of my son who died. It is that land in Oklanoma — the west i NW. } sec. of the sec.
33 in the T. 12, R. 2. E. I am about one hundred years olcf, and am helpless, and
my son and wife must stay with me and care for me like I was a child, and I want
you to tell the Commissioner about it, and have our money sent to the Border National
Bank, at Eagle Pass, in the State of Texas, United States of America. It would cost
my life to come to Oklahoma for my money, and if I don't get it in there at Eagle Pass
I can never be tha receiver of my on^-thmi part of the money. My daughter Kah
ke ne pea lives in Shawnee, Okla., and she wants to receive her money there. I am
the olaest living Kicka])oo, and through you I send very much respect to the Com-
missioner of Indian Affairs.
I am, with much respect, Wb ha ni ha (her x mark).
Noten (his X mark).
Witness to mark :
John Young.
I herewith submit said original letter, together with 21 papers relating thereto
attached, which, with attached papers, is marked "Exhibit No. 8.y
Wah ha ni hah and No ten botn stated to me, as they did to Special Agent Dickson,
that they knew nothing of the writinp; of this letter, and this is corroborated by the
admission of Mr. Bentley to Joe Clark, and the identity of the writer is also dis-
closed. Mr. Clark, in a sworn staUnnent, which is attached to and made a part of
Exhibit No. 8, says that on the same day that this woman denied to Mr. Dickson
any knowledge ot this letter, Mr. Bentley stated to him: "Of course she did not
ATTAIES or THE IfHTTAy KICKAFOO ESEHAXS. 21S3
SKk z m iiu( fL^^nmESBBuier <^ im*iM« JkMaks Mt£ moe- n^nissiEGed das bb ftii4
wcsCi*^ ^Mn^a? w^t^Of^T^r a: fiiab>«i iant 0% ^ »> ju^ sgst s^ oooie* (rf ^e^ tmtSmm»^
Bx 3i*>aai*^ :c 'JUK i*Hn'.*sr ami ^:&i^Ji|kUPjKiiiLM:sQiis 4t Jfr. Hr^w%^ hiM jca^cotfy. ^ me,-
•I'Jttifti^t in ilUt-l4'-imr *•-»'. &:iLft& ^JKB^SH^,. shit H&iSIL <L^Ttmy »"'#MnmiD»n-.n»Hff *•. j^ Ingfvi^ia- A^ftdy*
5cK2L-.mu Btmk x Eaufe fim. T*i, IW rac«pia scUifA^tfi v. Ejaifelt 5-1 _ * ^j&w
ThzB j^j;.^ m k. pitt2iL iCitTaj^ Joikt n&as Mr. B*mi;k:7 wwiXi0t k jbuI SBUfi sc » enarJs-
T^i»»^ iks; Tv: *T^Thaa imtiiitaat B»»m:ift7-'i iii*dii*^i 'it '^:m^ bi]m«*aft w^[& nk*
Mr. *■> . JL- ^>r!!f:H2ir„
<5t "Sii*^ iiizEu^ .c ^ t^tk P-*i»aa_ '_&kamziir ft" *5«»' T^itt wisit <**€ Mr- Mtf^siL I, B^mtiti^, ^sui.
fr.r.tL ifr*»r 'Jiai»* la JLaLrtru-aia vnimiaL b^i^p^ sa**^ «dnj imijy»5r^ w^imL i iat ruin kni'iW^,
dsKiiLiiur '.: 'f^ '^n*^ I»*aal TrisKr ^c Mr. ®<«ie1i»7-
£ tit ii-.n jzuiw ▼iii'.a. :t ia*«!fr it^f; Tr-iOiiaL -wm "ii* rugns ttibi*, i::!!!; o«nk vr^mio.
TiHi»fi "*'. *♦* 13. "h»* sni*^ Eni^iiUL '^aans-.
Y»ir^. •Dnrr. L.. JL ♦'>r.ijjLaait!>f.
L~ xcc»^2Lr» Ji 'iiit^ r»9«.r: '^c Mr. D^'JEana iiaiik*' Ji j«ar je>>s&ac iiois wf^moKL. Jkansk F«»«aaL
iiL -uit* t.Ji?jraT. ...Tir; :t Phnr.;K«36»:iiii(*' C^wmcj, Ctoi^- agaiffuk Mr, •TBairfifii BL CfkkaBOi
MLii ILr Jnr.r JL. Thj^ikt^rj 5:r Cfii^ MH* ^^unaett hr ^aKt6er >^ ^imi^ jmi vkit eastt »
H*Ut» «_2r?r -ui»* L-^j'.aar.a r^r.r', !Xi:r. ^n^aen^ 4» ?»fiiCMii» wrs^ G^ iPHndo^ bus i
OHf -^vr^ i:i» j.tticrur pcte-j*^ ir^lljt^ ac ihx*^ (tam:^ H^^ aMEBBS«^ %< Hawser h^sKj tiu» &ft^
I JL»rr«r !:ul iTT.'^Tiini:!! Mcica '«: Mr. ^ii&B^gTi uasamsmw b«ke<(^ !3^ Saacn- ^x^maaKmat
tiksii:^ '«.iiirri'. j:l M^iZi\r. -w-^fr*. zrvr^hmivi m. i^&ft* aamift- <<}£ Ofe*- aia& ami m^ &sS^ iir aS
;aj* . rallies ty "Sj^tr rwit^sn.
it*xii'r. * ff'-rA^^r vj-ui n* TraaMndiiiL amt aiark lAi!- sok^ •*'Exi5ns Sv ILT Iks k
ittt* ttr^t -.r "^^riT3a»'T: -riji'ti B»*m:iOT <6»«iii*fi b*»sc to* fas^p-afl sonsttift b& iynrmnr*- *» ntt
sa tracriirc?. liiit 3ii.r«^ -»ffc«*<ua*Iy ia*»- «Gnn^»ninn»nc &?- ««a KJuaify anoii £ae£e' Fmk.
T-*3_ V 5€ 1:1.: ;i_i iii»: £4ir:ii»y xz^9*axsd ac du^-.t&^-jf E]le»i&^ •^iLi:£^ M anii«ife]j;iKT-»fi
'ti»«*«t ir.ci ."••iiL ? ^:a^ 5,r "Ji** 5f j iiv./liL. T.. * 5., BL I ET. L M.. *lipi»kmf ♦'T^^imcy.
<'TtyT-j^"ttr'i* , -rj:^-— "»r^_r..»- isiit F-*«!aiL hfit^ sau^ v^ m*- sasK jti SBOsy was Ba&i
!:2j«rL yr -^.*u j.r.ii izji "iit^y ia*t aci: «iii ffi. Ofe ^ramnirig ihitf ftacAixisas a: inS b«*
d^ivis 5-.r ^: ti-^:-^ .r !iiait jx ■6j^si^j±2r^ '^.nnEiHs ami Twn; suwrs 21 *7[i¥TniiaB^ 0:TisiirT
3ii»iir3 v^3^ *aj:.-:ii :»*n:r* "E". JL B«:iiai*iL nciacj snstikt aaii ^rBfiii<mi: it 'ii»* Bt'.rifflr
SukichaL 2 jlu: t Z-itfirr Pies. T^sl JU ite tisn* 'i Tiirriir :±«»s& -fT ^-i^^gbi Mr. B-fndey
jeans *: iil-^^ 5:czr,nr,«>3i "iit*^ gaggwRninraf :X SaoKsss Gauahus: 3xat5sr ss B<iiIuj^. aaxt GSOf
8154 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
ceded by him, that these deeds should be trust deeds. All the 47 deeds are warranty
deeds and the printed form of each deed is similar to the one I here present and
marked "Exhibit No. 13."
This list of 47 includes deeds retaken for the 7 pieces of land deeded in March, 1905,
all of which are warranty deeds.
I also submit certified copy of court record of proceedings of Mexican court against
Bentley and mark the same "Exhibit No. 14.'' This exhibit is in Spanish and not
translated, as I did not get this copy until July 26, and as my interpreter had left
Muzquiz, and I did not luive time to have it translated before leaving there for Okla-
homa.
On July 28, 1906, J. T. Bonnet, vice-consul at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, was at Muz<)uiz ,
Mexico, and took about 40 of the Kickapoo Indians with him on the train . He claimed
to have an order from United States Consul Martin to subpoena and bring a lot of these
Indians to Ciudad PoxiSrio Diaz to be used as witnesses m some kind of an examina-
tion before the consul.
They reached Ciudad Porfirio Diaz on the 29th day of July, which was Sunday.
They did not stopat Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, where the consul has his office, but crossed
the river to E^le Pass and was taken and keot there until the dlst of July or later.
On examination of Exhibit No. 12 I find that on the 30th and 31st days of July,
25 out of 47 deeds to Mrs. Bentley and Ives were acknowledged before W, A. Bonnet,
at Eagle Pass, Tex.
Mr. Thackery and mvself had been advised that Mr. W. A. Bonnet, of the Border
National Bank of Eagle Pass, Tex., and his father, Vice-Consul J. T. Bonnet, of
Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, were interested with Mr. Bentlev, in the matter of procuring
deeds from these Indians for their Oklahoma lands. When we first went to Mexico
we were satisfied that the Bonnets were interested with Bentley, either through
friendship or otiierwise, to such an extent that we could expect no assistance from
Uiem in the matter under investigation. Our conclusions in this were later shown
to be correct.
In proof of this conclusion, I here submit affidavit of Russell Johnson, assistant
cashier of the State National Bank of Shawnee, Okla., and mark the same "Exhibit
No. 15i."
I also call attention to the letter written by W. A. Bonnet to Senator Teller and
ppblidied in ^e Congressional Record, dated June 18, 1906, and printed on page
8045, which letter is copied in this report on pages 57 and 58.
I also call attention to the 25 acknowledgments to deeds taken by W. A. Bonnet
on July 30 and 31, after these Indians had been taken by J. T. Bonnet from Muzquiz,
Mexico, to Eagle Pass, Tex.
I saw Mr. Bonnet at Muzauiz on July 28, and I left on the same train with him, and
I personallv know that he nad a letter with the name of L. A. Martin signed to it,
directing tne presence of the Indians at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz. He showed me this
letter. I know personally that they crossed the river and were at Esatle Pass on the
SOth of July. I saw many of them at and about the Border National Bank. I did
not so into the bank, but these deeds show conclusively what they were doing there.
I left Eagle Pass on July 30, in the afternoon.
Whether these gentlemen had any financial interest in the enterprise or not I am
unable to say, but that they have been verv active in assisting Bentley in cheating
these Indians out of their lands there is no doubt.
While at Muzquiz, at the request of Mr. Thackenr, I paid about 35 of these Indians
the lease money due them from their Oklahoma lanas. i returned checks of 1 1 Indians
who refused to take their lease money. I did not talk to a single Indian who had lease
money due but who complained tliat they had been paid absolutely no money for
the last two years, and some claimed they had had none in three yeare. For this
reason the 11 refused to take their money. They expressed themselves a^ believing
that the Indian department through Mr. Thackery had stolen it from them.
Mr. Thackery informed me that the lease money due them, except what ho sent nie
to be paid to them, had all been paid. That part of it was sent to tne Border National
Bankj and part of it was paid at Eagle Pass oy a Mr. George H. Blakeslee, who was
then in the service in the capacity of a clerk at the Shawnee Indian schools. These
payments were made by check on the subtreasury at St. Louis. I find that no busi-
ness man at Muzquiz except Roman Galan or at Eagle Pass except the Border National
Bank would cash these checks for the Indians. Nearly all the Indians sign by mark,
and to couterieit a signature would be an easy matter, and Galan, Vacca, Bentley, or
John Mine could identify the Indian as the payee in the check. These checks were,
I think, all cashed by the Border National Bank, and in some way the Indian, if he
if to be believed, was cheated out of the money.
APPAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2165
I requested Mr. Thackery to send for these checks, but I have as yet not received
them.
These Indians have not only been cheated out of their lands, but also out of their
lease and land money as fast as it has been paid to them.
Mr. Bentley has been the leading character in these outrages against the Indians.
He has them so completely under his control — a very large per cent through fear —
that they are afraid to exert their rights, but ignorant of what they are doing they
take his word as to the contents of any instrument as translated and interpreted by
John Mine, a drunken dissolute Indian, who can neither read nor write and who because
of his incapacity is wholly irresponsible.
Bentley 8 statement while on the witness stand and at other times and places and
his mode of procedure in business transactions with these Indians and with the Grov-
emment are in direct conflict with any theory of honesty or fair dealing that c^n be
drawn from the facts.
When on the witness stand in Mexico, testifying at the investigation conducted by
Special Agent Dickson, Bentley was asked in substance: If at the time the seven
Indians transferred their Oklahoma lands any consideration money was paid for sudi
transfers to any or all of them? This question he refused to answer. (See question 26
on Exhibit No. 16, and answers to same.)
At the same time and place he was asked whether the contract or agreement between
him and the Indians with reference to the disposition of said lands was in writing or
oral. He answered, " It was a private agreement." I suppose from that it was an
oral agreement. Before the Senate committee he stated that the {Agreement was in
writing and deposited in the Border National Bank, of Eagle Pass, Tex. According
to his statements it would matter little whether the contract was in writing or oral or
whether there, was no contract, for, according to his statements, it is in his possession
and under his control. The investigation and this record shows that the Inaians have
no knowledge of any contract ana that the whole matter is exclusively with Mr.
Bentley as to what shall or shall not be done with these lands. I here submit the
questions and answers taken at the investigation by Superintendent Dickson, above
referred to, and mark the same "Exhibit No. 16."
That Mr. Bentley, Mr. Field, Mr. Ives, Mr. Bonnet, Mr. Roman Galan, and Mrs. Ida
B. Bentley have successfully for a series of years cheated and defrauded these Indians
out of their property and lands is conclusively established by the records herewith
submitted. I now offer a purported interview with Mr. Bentley, published in the
Oklahdman September 5, 1906, and mark the same "Exhibit No. 17." It seems to
have been the main object of Mr. Bentley's life for the last number of years to remove
not only the Kickapoo Indians, but a lurge number of others to Mexico, that he and
his associates might gain control of their real estate in the United States, and this
newspaper article establishes the fact that any opposition to his plans would meet with
his earnest disapproval. In his estimation the Government of the United States and
all of its Departmental officers when they oppose his plans furnish liim evidence of
their corruptness. This article also, if Bentley is to be believed, furnishes proof that
the Mexican Republic would be a most undesirable place for any person to choose for
a home. He has gone before the Department, to the Senate committee, to the Indians,
and for years has advocated the desirability of that location for these Indians, and after
getting them — a large number of them — to locate there he now condemns the Govern-
ment, its officers, its citizenship, and everything connected with it. In one regard he
claims to speak from knowledge, because he says in this interview that he succeeded
in bribing Mexican authorities, thus effecting his escape from the Republic. I think
this interview, in connection with Mr. Bentley's statements and actions as disclosed
by this investigation and shown by this report, is conclusive evidence of his dishonesty
in connection with these Indians and the United States Government. I tried to get
a statement of the publisher of the Oklahoman that this interview was correctly
reported — that is, reported as eiven to the reporter by Mr. Bentley. I did not succeed
in this. I then had Mr. John W. Scothom, assistant United States attorney, interview
Mr. Bentley in reference to the matter, and he stated to Mr. Scothom that this inter-
view was substantially as he gave it. Personally I did not get to see Mr. Bentley.
Mr. Bentley avoids the using of the names of any individual in this interview,
and does so evidently with the purjKJse of escaping the possibility of having to defend
a suit for criminal lioel in the courts.
By comparing the statements made in this interview of September, 5, 1906, with
the statements made in the complaint filed in Mexico in May, 1906, there is found to be
a great similarity.
The complaint made in May was made before Mr. Thackery and myself had reached
the Indian camp, and among other things charged, "That a group ol ^v.\!CL'^x^Ra.\^s.^'t^-
sented themselves at the Indian camp, stimulating l\ie liid\awa&\.o ^t\\t^5.«^^^r^'»^c>»^"-
2166 AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXXOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
ning after their dauehters, etc. " This complaint was used as a charge against Mr.
Thackery and myself, and, although false in every particular, Bentley seems to think
it necessary to repeat practically the same charge in this interview. His purpose could
only be to create a false impression with the Departments by discrediting myself and
all other persons differing with him in his plan to cheat and defraud these Indians.
There is no one acquainted with Mr. Bentley, his character, and his reputation for
truth and honesty wno would be siuprised at any statement he would make relating to
a subject in which he was interested, unless by mistake or accident he should happen
to tell the truth.
I find, as a matter of fact, Bentley commenced to use his influence with these Indians
while he was acting as agent for them, to induce them to remove to Mexico. That at
that time and since tried to create a prejudice in their minds against the United States
Government, and especially the Indian department, by representing to them that
the United States had defrauded them in the treaty provining for the allotment of
their lands and in the purchasing of their surplus lana. That the United States has
defrauded them in the amount to be paid them for said surplus and that thc>ir children
would be forcibly taken from them, sent to school, and later forced into the military
service. That to avoid these things it would be necessary for them to remove to
Mexico, where they would be governed by only such laws as they would make and
where game was to be found in abundance.
That he (Bentley) having "great influence" at Washington would be able to get the
United States to pay to him for the Indians all money claimed by them and he would
then turn it over to the Indians.
As soon as he succeeded in removing some of the Indian.*) he began his operations to
secure legislation removing the governmental restrictions to alienation of their Okla-
homa lands.
That in the meantime he had organized a tribal gf)vemment for the Indians in
Mexico, which he could absolutely control and through its power control tho entire
number of Indians located there. That on March 7, 19()5, ne procured deeds from
the seven Indians from whose allotments the restrictions had been removed by a^'t of
Congress of March 3, 1905. That the grantors in these deeds did not know at the time
that they were executing deeds, but thought the lands were to be traded for other lands
in Mexico.
That Ida B. Bentley and W. W. Ives were the grantees and the deeds were warranty
deeds and not trust deeds.
That the aggregate consideration shown by the deeds is $22,800, and the entire
amount paid at the time of their execution was $1,350, and according to the understand-
ing of the Indians the separate sums making up this amount of $1,350 were not paid
as a part of the purchase pric(> for the lands (h>eded.
That about April 1. 1905, W. W. Ives sold the SE. \ sec. 24, T. 10 N., R. 3 E. (being
the land deeded by 0 ke mah and Thth e qua), to the Shawnc*e Townsite Company,
a corporation, for the sum of $39,000, and this amount is shown to he comet by a
reference to the abstnut of title here submitted and marked "Exhibit No. 18."
That $22,500 was paid by the Townsite Company at the time of the purchase arui a
mortgage for $16,500 was given to Mr. Ives to secure the payment of the balance of the
109,(X)O. This is also shown by Exhibit No. 18 and corrolnirates the statement of
Messrs. Eggemian and Slover, president and secretary of the Townsite Company.
That in June and July, IJKKJ, Mr. Bentlev secured other deeds from six of these
seven Indians for the same lands deeded in Slarch, 1905. That the ^antees in these
deeds are Mrs. Ida B. Bentley and W. W. Ives, and the consideration shown is the
same as in the deeds of 1905.
That Bentley has purchased no lands in Mexico for these Indians, but has a con-
tract for an undivided interest of a small tract in which he is the grantee.
That only $5,500 was paid on this contract and $5,000 is yet unpaid.
That he has succeeded in obtaining pn)perty and money of great value, and after
all this time has failed to render any account to th(> Indians for the same. That many
of these Indians are afraid to take action to prr)curc? their rights on account of iIk- fear
they have that punishment of some kind will Iw meted out to them by Bentley and
his Indian council.
I deem it pmper to stat<*, in justice to Mr. R. W. Dowe, the collector of customs at
Eafile Pass, Tex., that Mr. Thackery and myself found him courtwus and obliging,
willing to assist us in our work in any way jK^ssible. He did render us valuable assist-
ance in many ways, and he is c<'rtainly a loyal and true citizen, a thorough gentleman,
and a competent officer, worfhy of the confidence reposed upon him.
Very respectfully,
G. A. OUTCELT,
AMsUtant United Stata Attorney »
mmrAy kkxavoo fwm» 1157
mmM Jmm JBV ^OTS^^
FiTKursicr: Tiliiez Llomi. <iii^fTi*F ami cifii^QErieF 'sf i^e- psf^erej ftsr {^» XsmdlErvm
nen. 'Fiii iiLi '£t>^ Thah STiHft km o^ amiiL Tj& po&chjS' & %it Ibk ose ^ &«««' nexi bv-
«?nrii»«t irtT^ bo. -Jih- Hrii±T«»s jzut iw.tiFfe «ej siriiK- «iei8ii <3f pmpisEiiy «- fisu^ m c&s:
EjbszLK PjbS, Tmx.. -^jau i^ S3M.
$rjLra :-^ Zttaa Mvnundt Canity, mr
irT»T: i'rtL~j rr^.n. i**c«:w»s Bui -stT^ 'hisz lis aa2XL& is Sfflirx lfcirr$ii»!k: n^^m kg- » 2r ^mi»
•'if UP* liiti i» X 2ii*ni.:>»r :f "h**- i£»?^ni!ajL-£jKk3i3i^ Tiiis* '5f Snij^rttnif :f O-kfa&cnxa: Ia&ok
ill* J* u-ji.iT7**<i v-.r»a »aai tlI:** :f Liituiaa TTt«f»*^ T^uk rjjjgmt if Wa^ pai oea: maaiL^ heax
m«i i£j*x:»'a^i-Alii!iiLso: jEtairuiip*?^ ^inus lafitmt: was isi; nke 5jitia;o«>o tiaaiLp. !if*sr IfexiS'
•ru-!. Ks*::j_i.'. .a iriMZi-.m dli* iHrJi iay :f Msj. EKW: rSa& m «l[f <iH3& n» Mutsn: J.
S»*n^n;Hr7" !ann»^ ■*: *Kai --^tmg- asuf r»fri»»j*«»fi as&Hi:: fti maHpriK air frrm ^ssmiffj' ^ ySaat
£a' ct^rr. '.Tttjias' ihiK isfiaos '.niipiiefi •3rai&. szii rwrnwc anm. Mil B«id«y ao^ <iiri
21 v*r^r*^ ft r :-rr! v. "Jii* Iniiiiuii* m "Jie <^iae^ sacmaaBd,. ^laac «ar£ B^siaiLft^' tsiM c&s^ sai
hill h* r: pk»4»<i liiti Santa*^: i^ difr ligw IaTr." '±as he 1^«n3:igy jsoxf Mr. Wvwa.. rSat
j^aiT* liiao irLHf ni'v otv mutt^ vr:Ti-iHi:iL abr jSut Cai^v, Wic&aafc, Ite&RPaas:^ ami :^jksip-
-1*^7 V iilit -"■♦".a 3n:'^-* mitf u^":»»s- ".f Luiiimn' lii MeEosi sai€ buy lanj&for dtan- j^tffii^
-Hur.*^ r-^-^tr -jiiui faiii 5»»n-:i»*7- TTswi xstai «B[f 5jcia«oo« FTdifnnff nkas xStsf huihc oat
-•♦^1 -iifMi* ■ "4";t,?rrm?v jEiiis. *.tl^ "iuiJi ^i&i^ mnHC aSiiw" f*Tm. B«»aniifty 03 ^xaii&t 'Vfvpap
"^ir c.iihi.tmi. itntii* 5:r :rjii*r '.tuiiis 31 Ifesicn: disK n&»t Smf^iiBatf wfti: Tamfr Qa> JflesKV
2UU*!: ii ui ~»iit»tr -ii-aiti* 21 ir.mmr.ii. ^ ^i^iu: ^ihffjr ^iiriki li^nt- frlby- s&g- Iruinuiff BcTiftf ftmiK
tr«<ii* :c 7^»ii-*» UT". ".iior. "ju^y v juit ii*rT«» ail 'sems ik ^y in. Mesnen JOici wnoJM adft
iiiL •* *: "V'.rx r tr. i^yhznn -»ii^ h'lr, nine, iihas iiiLsr '^iiSifeiHi w^nM am: his^'S' qq*^
"*: *<'.tii:« I. Ajf.ii.i" f"'.ir;ii**r *Tur*»* ihiK; ai»^ tttwI "ibfr jBoi ^iR^ae&yn ^^tutist. m^i; 00^9231,
iaj ;ac»*r:» n.r -jii* «Lai i^^c.-^t^'j ui::ii iiii*«r -»»«*»- 7*rj flBS- Q&as tifeev miij iizul«5f&ei^
'ji* V.r^'ithV.'J: .t "JIH- aJllt* "Ulil' l^^U^LH V.ut ^ihl* ^oili Uniffnanf; nfiaS ^ilhiKK- WtrR- ^n^lSC aiffilL
ii*r» ji ii.-rxii!': i.r izi* znrif.'m :f hirjimr nhi«r lkBiif& tmii li&ttC if c&e?" imsgnrfed oa«
^u -»iit*ir -oiiiiH n J r.'i.ir.mA tn ill -Jijgy mv^ilxt fnil t» »i&i»- piasi^a w&o w^^iiiif ^-^ jihaa
"jiH^ • arrrr^T: ;ru'.:-r 3.r lilt* jonii* -Jiitn "v»»<!aa»i»- :f ;i£fiaiLS ^ jitniam^ in^iromr t-iK^ fni^frnanf
ii.n -* fun I ;jir,»^r iil::i1 -^.1*7 ruly xiiitiEift:*'^^ dut- ssne- 'ir ay «ii s^i dig- piaaca wto
v~.Ti„»i ":»i,^ 'vZt^ni "jit* zw.^z T.v di**ir ^ j*£isLLki'.m3h~ iu£u^. arflftn^ was jcr«>9C^ by tih*»^ ILes^
Tan. -♦'Ir.'^niir'i i_T.:t*r ijr^'.inia :f l€r B»*atui»7- aaii lfo_ ST6i&.. stii aifgn c<m^2S^SDi
.♦ leuti* ^li ki.f^: i^n 111L17 rietnu.tuj. imi "n>«'ia x^itt ^fWmL ^ jt&um aa srr^ ^> m>
-Jii* Tr>iii-^ t -JLi^ ^.u«i 2:»riii.i*7 liitt 5'i»iijti» if&ksi^. wai* ik:ui by jKoi Fd^ii^ dnis a^ oxiosi
j*ii- * j •' . fiii^Li.mu, _zimH<iiitr**iy laii duK fle isfiiMit: ctniiii ant; tstk* kis JxfiiKLirsj
"vriH^ vr^i ' -"' • iL" 2i:iht: j«i"** aer aa. ICrssiKn ::h£u; uffimi; ^fednLftii k learj^j iir ^ik&fc-
ii.miL '.ji< It* *!:■ "1 ".niHnii-riii. vaia«»?i35r.n. difr «ai WUttivui 3#:iit!ftm*in. "iink: ££1121:1 1: !:&»
v.'VTL .r \L :.: . . .: iLixxr. vtiftE^ "i»* -n» yjiks^i r? m. pta aur a ^icr^ mnft jmi i±jsl
'-Li.-^r. .ii". i^-i ..ci~»*ili*<i ai 'vr'.ric is T«»ry aapt iFir^ rpnni suifl. rrrmt*- jn ae 'icnaeaseii
V- j^i * r.'..v.ei-iir^-7 i. r . c.iiiir.ma. sari say a. in^ if 125 'Jias JzSasu: aa*i acn TrntaaaHJ
any jiv v'jiiL.vi"*r Uit iiui :»i«i ^eaiigaliijfr fiiraur a:iH vaiiiff fay is itiSirns jaii »
ihiS rrntntii ^arny> ^iraflr. fmT.hi^ jEEkSss c&as scid B^sasiiey ai ii^ixx^ a^ iiL asu ps^pvr
2168 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
to force the aforesaid Kickapoo Indians to dispose of their Oklahoma lands by trad-
ing them for lands in Mexico: that said Bentley vigorously opposes the disposal of
the said Oklahoma lands of said Indians in an^ way other than through him (Bentley).
AflSant further states that at least 50 of the Kickapoo Indians now residing in Mexico
are very anxious to return to their allotments in Oklahoma permanently, but that if
they attempt to do so they are immediately arrested for debts purported to be owed
by them to one Roman Gralan, who has been working in conjunction with said Bentley
for the past several years.
• Affiant further states that he left Mexico because he was afraid of the threats of said
Bentley and Fields being carried out, to the effect that if affiant did not leave they
(Bentley and Fields) would have him (affiant) sent to the penitentiary for not less
than six months.
Henry Murdock.
Witnesses to signature:
Geo. T. Graham.
C. R. Johnson.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day of June, 1906.
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
Willie Murdock and Charley Mo sha she, being first duly sworn, depose and say that
they have read or heard read the above affidavit of Henry Murdock ; that they ana each
of tnem speak and well understand the English language; that they were present and
heard the full conversation between Martin J. Bentley, W. S. Fielcls, and Henry Mur-
dock and the Kickapoo Indians; that they know personally that each and every state-
ment made by said Henry Murdock in the above affidavit is true.
William Murdock.
Charlie (his x mark) Mo sha she.
Witnesses to signatures:
Geo F. Graham.
C. R. Johnson.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 8th day of June, 190r>.
Frank A. Thackery,
Superintendent and Special Disbursing Agent.
ExmBFT No. 107 [Goode].
To THE AuxnjARY JuDGE, San Francisco:
The group of North American Indians resident on these lands by permission of Mr.
Bentley, or by special agreements with him, and by which motive they are now in
possession of tne land bought by the above said Mr. Bentley, have presented themselves
Defore this judge complaining that a group of Americans who recently arrive<l at their
camp molest them at every moment, exciting them to have trouble among themselves;
fltihiulatin^ them to drunkenness and to other vices; running after their daughters
and committing other abuses, taking advantage of the ignorance of complainants.
And as by this great difficiilties may arise, because of the ignorance of these Indians,
you will observe all possible vigilance, so that by no reasons they may be molested, and
80 that their wishes oe respected in the matter that the above-cited Mr. Bentley will
represent them in all their business transactions, as has been manifested to this judge
by the complainant Indians. This communication, presented to you by Mr. German
Siinchez, wno goes in the character of a special policeman, and at your order to remain
at the Indian camp every day that is necessary, so that he exercise's strict viarilance to
keep good order in the midst of that cxjlony and to avoid the commission of the abut«'a
oompudned of by Indians in that camp, and to prosecute those that sell or take intoxi-
cating liquors to the Indians.
And so in case, against the complaint of these Indians, the alx)ve-referred to Amrr-
icans continue to molest them or go into their camp without their p^Tuiission, you will
serve notice to present themselves before this autnority, so as to notify them to retire
from this camp, because complainants want it so, and manifest that these individuals
are pernicious and only take to that camp of ignorant people vices, abuses, and tnmhle,
without doine any work or industry for their support or livelihood.
Liberty and constitution, Musquiz, May '30, 1906.
The Chief Poutico,
L. A. GUAJARDO.
Amarants Falcon, Secretary.
ATWAsm Of CTE mmrAy ncKAfiDO dkhajHi. S159
Mr, fr- A- '•'".'!*'" BhT
In. rt^jzor-i w int^ B«*iud«»7. ^ic w&atrh. ^nt'^nisft-sBiift-cans'aaB;. 1 wJ iiiw ii^ rTii wMg
P'>«-ji2i Vitf ii» B^urit^^' i^ . jait r.hac ^ bait a. acciisa isn naJm &i»r mit ^ iss IfioKn' wii&
i&>^ linn -sur^i. i3.r»m7<«i!f>^iiy^izsi&»<iDS»rx'nB&amfa^
•*.nvili£ ii.r !::La»f!r. 'iilia^ au'.nt^y. 1^ was fiioprjifHl "^^^ hnlii t^:» suiiw^ B SBIK 4r <fiL
•i»»p<:m:n. Ti^^***: irjuVflif%!ira V>>r» aubii!: oa mut jitui 1^ fbi!S2f w)»f*( kacws oa nsfr w&aEn- 1
Xrxi^fnx. MnKA*. JiMir r^,
%2.: I iaii lO 3»*Tirit*7 Tnrii^ 7^11 fetn. ^Mmmgn-iXL ixy^oc raj i:rl T^iH. 'tail Kizj
Iz -r .11 :iu«: *ii*^ ".I'wi: iit-j-* ''.miu* ii-.Krn. ii«»r«» wtxsl «iim»^ fiLir.icKpr^^ft.
fUb* r«*ifr 7:11 ^-Tir: li.xntr w. I wooc jna iDwp Iu«r nxuilt £ wnat y-iii li^ «Hif£ fer widL
■w.itu* .cLr-r' frm !ittr-. I aa-7**- Trriix^L ;i. ^DMui in W^nAmgyKBu. aoii txiIm* yna •ii» i^ii
sluLTTi*^ 1^-^ 1, <tia'7->^ liiii i*^ hi» wiK- %v:. W% •iniL'^c liikft- cIbb Wkf^ T'loc ««£ Ebcr
hi-wmH- -rsjii.rir, islj znt^mi *•; inzick hj«. loii .•mft- haet on p&Ker on sd. jb ^bt ^
Ujxsxd ^TLfcina Isrujls :^ek7KX^
C93!]!XQ ^1Ll:rX» IsSILiLJ^ JlfiSaKT^
Di-ti •i~L. Tlii^r^ -^ jai'ii'jwi ai»rwwT:a. s Ii»?n5*r, piErpmRfi m a* finmj Tom ^«— ■■fc^.
▼ai'.#H* r-ii^n. lii^ni*^ .i* _lj. niLii -HUt -vxi -*:. •v7inr.»*iL "i-J *uif»^ fii:p*%izii;t»3uiiimc of dii»- ^'agiatfa-
£a*i.aii Snr.M a r^jar: -.. -Jii* r*r.ir!i -: M^TtJiv: tr^ni 'Jiuj: irhi-^vl :t Mirr MizriDek^
ha M-!t.t •- i£t: v^ici 7.11 vl. r-rmjrm.-:»*r m '^ \*.j ▼■* -^nLcu-i-rot m onr isiswpRSffr
>H-f* u* 7 -.11 vll ai'.n** ja "jn^ Itwr-.^r. Tii*^ Er£ ?»»6»ir^ Vj a. *&%■
:■ r i-r V re. mil Mj ijjirt ai**»fi» oi: -mmfMni^nc irm aBfr ^v jnir i»
: '.:.- .v-iL.T-- ?'i*aH«* i:^-*^ "iiiH x T«»rT Tar^rii ca-j-*sdaarii:ii. xruL £ ub. *3€
^,- ..-r^r-^- "'ir^i.r;.-:*: '„. '.•* Trr-rn«L ^7" ^•*^ "ittji ai jxikk. au^iiuw-if 3P> fUSfL^
Jxajti a. Txjuokixt.
2160 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Statement made by Tom Smithy a Kichapoo Indxan, at the Indian camp, near Muzquxz^
Mexico, July , 1906.
My name is Tom Smith, am a Kickapoo Indian, and live in Mexico.
I nave had the attached letter which bears date June 10, 1906, at Muzquiz, Mexico,
read and interpreted to me, and know the statements therein made.
I never saw said letter until now, and never authorized anyone to write such a
letter.
I did not write said letter, and I have no knowledge; who did write the same. I
do not write or sign my name and said letter is a forgery, written without my knowledge
or authority.
Tom (his x mark) Smith.
G. A. OUTCBLT.
Jos. Clark.
Exhibit No. 110[Goode].
Department op Justice,
Washington, June 29, 1906,
The Secretary op the Interior.
Sir: I send you herewith for your information a copy of a statement dated the 19th
instant from D. M. Beaty, concerning the M. J. Bentley investigation.
Respectfully,
II. M. HOYT,
Acting Attorney-General.
Oklahoma City, Okla., Jutu 19, 1906.
Upon the request of J. W. Scothom, United States attorney for the district of Okla-
homa, I make the following statement of my trip to Mexico:
When we first went down to Mexico, myself, Al Brr)wn, Russell Johnson, and the
two Grimes, L. C. Grimes and Mai Grimes, and one ('hil Moore went down about the
same time. I don't remember the exact date, and a part of the lK)y8 went to Muzquiz
and apart of us went out to the Indian camp and found the Indians very glad to scjo
U8. Tnen the next day Mr. Bentley came to Muzquiz and seemed to hv. very angry
because we went to the Indian camp. He gave us orders that if we went back to the
Indian camp any more that he would have us arrested for trespassing. After that
I got an interpreter and went to see a Mexican ofTicer who lived in that vicinity,
an officer the same as the justice of the peace is in this vicinity. II(^ told me that
he and four other bmthers owned the tract of land that th(; Indians were camped on,
and that Mr. Bentley ha<l ma<le a contract to buy part of this land — one-fifth interest —
but ha<l never paid for it, but he said they would sell us some of the land and sell it
very cheap. Then we went to Waharda and asked permission to ko down to the
Indian camp and lcx)k over this land. Mr. Waharda told us wc» could not go down
there or we would be subject to an arrest; that Mr. Bentley had objected to while
people jzoine down to the Indian camp. Then we waited f(ir the agent to come.
Agent ThacKery and Mr. Outcelt, we knew that they were in the country, and we
waited until they came*.
By Mr. Scothor.n :
Q. Did you and your friends go down to buy some of this land? — A. Yes, sir; we
went with the int(?ntion of buying some of the land if it could be lK)UKht.
Q. Had you any arrangement with Bentley Injfore yf)U went down? — \. I did not.
We tried to compn)mise with Bentlc»y; Bmwn and Johnson saw him first, but reported
to me that they could not make any terms whatever with him and that he absolutely
forbade them talking to the Indians. Then I went to Mr. Bentley and told him
that we wanted to buy a little land for farming purposes, and he said tliat if we would
turn the money over to him or dejKmit the money in the Border National Bank huI>-
ject to his check that he would let us have a quarter section each. He told the other
parties that they wen? there wanting to buy land for speculaticm and that he w(mld
positively not let them have a bit of it, and he said hcj wanted me to be away from
there and be in Eagle Pass when the bill passt'd, which would be on Monday, and
not later than Tuesday; that he did not want to do me any dirt, but he would have
them other fellows put in jail until he got all the deeds. He also told me that he
was working to pn>tect the Indians, to protect their rights, and that he did not pro-
pose to let them be robbed by a lot of speculators. He told me that he had spent
AFFAISS OF THE MEXICAS KICKAPOO OTDLUTS. 2161
IShSffi ir ^}Sff> I'.r 'hf-. ^xttr. <of l»nri ria* rfs^ w»rp raai^«*i -on aod thias h lKlrj«ig««i
He fflii -ii^: I>Li.-.r. in-i Tbi^'/frr/- hi*.! h*r^Ti i-.irn iili^rf-. anii m. 5ii» f»i«m«ic liwer
w*rpr h^-.nr. iim:: ri*-.aLt. iriii thAF. n.-r rij jnisfic ih.fr iriwjle p*3»c. wan 'io. rii^ b^, axiid dtjis
h*- "^^w :iL iiv'.r \i *«t»?^na' Mr. BetrJey s?*rt 'his fcind. a« fc;^ bwi e^raed it hr hatri fcfckrjT.
Tr*r«r :i-r r;zi-. Iri'iiiri* :r ni,r.. iijii chis h^r TBr.-Alfi tuta htiT*- Vj tkke act acfcncwLe<fcr-
Indiin :.-. '.i^ :L^ p*rr=<-.{i ^Ilinsr ihrr Lkn'i. He ai>o mA.ie 4 r*nfcirk tfeac rtilft- Mr.
Eenrlev rr. :.rr." '"^ zrAr.r^r *Jie '.dirT? Trre =«'-<: i <iArr.r> hin b*rtT.rr.
Tfc.e In i::ir^ -grie :nv. •..■.Trn. iiL-i zcld is '"ikkC 3plr. BenrJey rxW tifcem fittu ^ererj-jOat
tfcan r=rf^-#^i :.:■ ?r.rc :n line xrA *ia3i ::p -i**^!? f--.r h±i wohld b^ dhjovn hnift' msrm
nrj:il -.l-^j i. i ru-£ :.r i:n. TI-7 -Jr"e In.iians v.ti niT^elf anfd Mr. Orn:/!i^fcr rftfct.
"Hie IzfixLrt* :Li.r. ^an.-^ :.: 'i* xzL'i ziak«ie liiL* n^Ik hikii zt'A h»^n in. itj-wti mrjre xhaiL an
hijrir ':r.:Ll '.h-^^/ Trr=r Lrr=*t:rti arui :iifr»^rrL tnno jail. Th.^ Icbikkcs cli:kt lived ca dwt
aei2t.'*:T!i.-.oi .c "^i-i-^ne*!: -w-ere prjtxiL*efi ibeir lirj*r:Tr cf m*y wo«iLi kave tiwr o:»izi£rT
anil never ^'r.cne '.ti^'.k: at: 7 ni«'.re. an«i zLk Infic^a* 'JiAr. Liveti ar. zf^ amzf m MexLO>
"•"ere z^r^.zz^.j^i. 'iie!..* freeii-'.rn :f "iiey Tr-^rxl.-i 2»> h«i/:k '"..'.■ '^am.pr anii iwoc tyjc^ih on* cnrril
ZiTe^ -'.r^ier^ '. 7 E5er."Ir7
^li-Ie -w-e TT-^rre :n Ck:r.p near -Jie Iruifika ramp ^iie olSc^re dme ♦ir>im and fnrr-jzud^ii
ia*_ in-i 2iv^ -> .ri-ra :.'. leav-. ac*! ::ii.-.Trrti r^i 2 -^r -i ciil'r* frrm camp. We Tenc oa
in:.: M i.i..,ilz- . n-7 -,.• [iz^ J ire i^-i ni:«: 20 -iiey TB--.riI i n^kie- -za anil p'ir. as m. pruciL.
i b«..r::rii". -^.cir ::■.£-*■_* f'.r *iie In^'iiini* 'fian •winreii *..:■ rr.-cie h<:cie. an«i "iiey Tere
arr»r^r.rii in-i -Jir-.-«-n ir.:.: ^.*n.
<i. DM -iie/- iiT«^r. T,--. E>vi-T.,:r. foe V-iTin^ -Jie :i.'.ket:5? — A. N'o. -Jiey •ii.i 2i-..n arrest
E>^. •.*•: -.?.ev ■ iiiim-^ ".hi.: -.he Infiiatns r-.^w'^i -.hecL a iefrt, in«i -iiar. ^i-e'drbf. iria 1112,
anil ^ n»i*.i .i.
Q. L/.i :ne In-i^n.- v.tii^ :•':-: ".LeTi?— A. Vr;». rir- *i:e7 '^ame -vi- *ii.e s*itr. day.
.Lr.'^r I nj..i pi. : ■.>.-: In-i^ii-n.-* -«i: :t ^.i^!. I m^ie :nln;2» -rimn iro'.;ji»i -.nere r.r a -Biiile^
an«i Ti.- : .1 { -. v ^ M-x. u^^ fr.-^oi ".niir. I ttu* ir.tn;? -Vr »:.> arr^steii a.* *fx-a a§ riirr rciei
•?■-»: '.>i- i:. I T--n-. .•.■: .n -.he rame *jain. "ar.^.n ihe In-ifana Tnf'.'ci I V.-'izrJ: lite iiir.kett
a:r. in-i H.* 5>:-.T-r. -rr-.r,^ 1:1^ -.1^". -ne7 Li^i a Timn: :'-,r me vver "iiere ar^i zhir. ?:he
'-.t^-'^r* nj..i •»••-'- n i". "-' r.*.r:i. I-:*: kin;z :•:? m-^ 'iiiir. r. ■■•^. r.
*'l '''"nit: £.:. : .: lin-: -* .: -wh-re -Jie In.i:ax.i» are --anipeii? — A- WeH, ar, in is aneiy,
h'^^i^v. in: Li.- -^.^Lr .r. .: I i: n.-.n kni;Tr -rhar. -Jiey rail i:. In li a^j dry. azid
Tn- *n i-in.- -n-r-r. -< fj-r i.- rien-le;/ i-? -.•:n--.emeii. are in ilaTery. He hjat •-iken
•Ji^t:n ■/-'■.''•- in : r.: :n-:,L :/.• . :-•.•: in-: n.-.Cit :n^Gn "iirre '-.q a«:rr:TLn: ot 'iieir debf^
Hr -y..! :.■ ' -.'•-:. >: "In-^n'. r :. Ea^ne Pikt :.-. z-=:^. -Jietr ec?-.c»=-7-. an/-! a njimher oc 'iier
In-i-k..-- Ti'-.-: - vm^ ';i* k n.m-. '.= .: -'ili nfC zet cArk. "Hiey are anjni:»i,» :<>
Ki. "'*':.-r, V . ;-: Ti.. ♦r'^rze •>!:. eL: a.: M^^riiju:^ — A. Ve*. *ir. an<i Tbar.kery
*-i If.-: ':.--/ n.i- - mv • .-rn -ni.;a.:S.n '-•^t»"-^:i "JiecL — C»'i:.:er. an-i Tba.-kerr? —
.1. 'l -^ •_• • V >. -r^in-. I: -s^i.* acT'^vti -lijt.: B-r.'^T. *bv*ili -jrire :.; T^-jk-r;/ /^imr-
*.n. : n'.y--.: "x-. - '■-t; i-iy ^ -5--^ •-•.'.1 1 kni.^w Trn-nh^r -.r n»',n ne -Jrii in. .Ail-
•^ H TB- ii- ^- .: i- :„ il .-... .n; ■■. Za^ie Pa**— .1. I i*'. n .c knjt'.Tr: :.: lakrsi acr^ns
hai_: i i-iv ■; r.n .'■-: "n-r r.a.:.
»^ A>. .: :. -V U: > .-. fr.ii M.z., ilz u, Vn-re "iie InziiarL* are?— A. AVj»i; 12
♦^ Tn-r n-^-n* -.nj.: > .-. ■s'-r-r .r:-r^i fr.ci :Le ■^.amp. :i:-v jr-CLi-Treii y^u fr:ci iL^
r-r**-:^- a":- n z.-j.:\-/ " il .n., ^.:-: .' — A. r'-^. *ir 5 t^.Tre*! 'i* '.^i: pAifl: liie vamp Trhrfnt
Mr. ?.-n:>y ;.-. — -»- ,-':_ i. t n-an Ln i. :rrn: I ihink *Le i* a S»-: an-i F-.i.
Q 1-. 7 - i.v V !•• - .r -s-n-'-n-r v.^^r par'.v arTr/rti :n-:Te '>:i-,re Bendey dii? —
A. •.■^-/ r-i-"'/ -' " '-■-■-'" :_-•*— nv-*^-l: an-i :ne :•»■-. •'>rlnn^. "Hie :-3r.j Grimes z^it zh^^nt
',-w . 7 ■':.:— :^\- ■*--.:■:■- I ::•: an-i -^-^n: -.r.: :»> "iie Intiian '';ainp :Tr--j lay* h^-jv^ I
di-i Tn- :.i: I ir.: ,:.' '...s-z, lie In-iianrf m-c me an-i iaiii -Jiar.*Mr. Betizley'* Lired
man la.: r * .: :-r- :/ nj.' - ^r arr^r.^tl L' "s^e -lame :r:: v. "iie camc». Wten I -iid jgr>
r*i: iL' r.-n-.-; n.i.: 11- irr^rtrT.e^: lef.-.re I na-i beet: "Jiere naif an V.rir. 'Hie pa^^fs
Trere t-t."--:. n '':.:'.n-.-n in : all I .•: .11 r^a^i tm -iar. i: ira* ffizneti by M. J, Belnsley-
I r.: :n^ .± --r- ■ . 1-.-- me r; ar.i r^'-. '>.'.-.ei: an*i TLfcrkefyl Tley -w^rft dr^wiL on
•iie r.v^r in : I a-- ■.: 1 Tm :.. 'iie riv-:r and *raved in'il dark, ac/i wi.*E. we cami6 b^:!:
2162 AF7AIB8 OF TH2 HCSXICAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Q. About what time of ni^t wm it when they started you back?— A. About 9
o'clock. We tried to set penninion to stay there until morning and agreed not to
talk to the Indiana if they would let us stay, but they made U8 so that night.
I would not begin to tell things as bad as they really were. It was the rottenest
thing I ever saw. They were strong.
The night they arrested us, they undertook to make us walk, and I refused and
Frank was willing to walk. Then we were going to have some Indians haul us out,
and the officers said they would have the Indians arrested if they did, but one Indian
said he would risk it if we would get him out of jail if he, was arrested.
I can not remember their names, but a part of the Indians say that they never
siflned a deed; they don't know that they have sold their land. .
Bentley would not let me pay the Indians for any land in case the bill did pasH.
I had to pa)r him.
Q. What is the land where the Indians are worth? — A. You can buy such land oh
the Indians are on for 30 cents an acre and the best at 70 cents. This is what they
told me and the other boys.
Q. How Ions were you down there^ Doctor? — A. I was down thfere four weeks, at
Eagle Pass and Muzquiz together. I was not at the Indian camp but three or four
hours — that is, I was near the camp that long. I was in the camp about half an hour.
Q. About how far from the camp is Mr. Bentley livinff with this woman? — A.
About 1) or 2 miles. Bentley told me that he stayed with this woman because it
was the only nice place to stay; but others told me that he lived with her and had
diildren by her. i did everytmng I could for the Indians, and asked Mr. Thackery
to wire the Department that the Indians be protected and their lands sold to the
hifl^est bidder.
Bentley boasted what a great pull he had in Washington. He boasted wonder-
fully: at that time he thought I was standinj^ in with him. When I found what he
was aoing and that he was going to put my fnends in prison, I laid down on him. I
told them not to go to prison, and aavised them to get away from there.
He ran a terrible bluff on us and made it stick.
I had seen Bentley before, but never was acquainted with him until I went down
there.
Q. What kind of a town is Muzquiz? — A. It is a town of about 2,000; a kind of
adobe town.
I). M. Bkaty.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 21st day of June, 1906.
[seal.] Stella M. Bekbe,
Notary Public.
My commission expires February 28, 1907.
Exhibit No. Ill [Goode].
In testimony of the deed of tale of six days of watery together with the land in San Francisco
plantation, celebrated between Mr. Celedonio Galan and Lawyer Salvador Garza Castillian,
having a power of attorney from Mr. Martin J. Bentley, Muzquiz, Coahuila, 1 2th July, J 90(1.
NtJMBEK K.
In the village of Muzquiz, State of (V)ahuila, on the 12th day of the month of Febru-
ary, 1906, beujre me, Lawyer Elwando Elizondo, notary public, and the witnosHOH
herein named, came on one part Mr. Celodonia Galan. married, farmer, vicinity,
accompanied by his legitimate wife, Mrs. Maria C. Sato De Galan, from whom he j^ot
consent in my presence, give faith, as required in article 2025 of the Civil Code, t<> an
end that the celebration of the present contract ; and on the other part Mr. Lawyer
Salvador Garza Castillian, also married, domiciled, and neighlwr of ( . P. Deas (I)iuz),
of this State^ and accidentally in this villas: the first party by his own pn)per ri^ditH,
and the last m the name and representation of Mr. Martin J. Bentley, whose personality
is duly accredited in this act with the testimony of mandate exhibite<l, give faith,
which will be taken account of in the following parts of this deed; both partien with
Imd capacity to obligate and contract, by me {wrsonally known, give faith an<l naid:
With^he respective representation that has l>cen said, having delil>erated t^) ( (>lebrate
a contract to buy and sell with subjection, basis, and stipulation contained in the min-
utes of date of tne 2nd of the present month, deposited m this notary. WTiich to pro-
duce legal effect and in the form by which it may have right, acknowledge and aolem-
nize the tenor of the following clauses:
AFFAIBS OF THE HEXICAS KICKAPOO UDIAK& 2163
Fim. To o(>mply with the presaipdon in the anidcs ISM c< the Civil Coc^
the lav rA no<an€»r Mr. Galan hasezhibttcd a certificaie of a re^sured mortgBfse thai
I. the ¥fibsrri}j0^ wAary. ei ve uith have had in mj aeht. aivi liicnll v aayi: The lawyer
Fruiti^rv> XA^ffz Llano, official of public reei£«ry of the dietrict of Ifondova. State of
CoafauiU de ZuTdf'i'za. certified that Mr. Celedonia Galan hat regietered to his ^vv^r
under numfj^r .^^4. ff^^ 121. Vol. XX of Book 1. «rf this property, sx dayi of water in
the San Francifrr* p>laniation. with its lands of fields and pastuieE. ami ax days of
water in Ru«<^y plantation, with land of field, in jurisdiction of the '^'alley c4 Moznoiz.
in thif di5th<^t. wL:ch property reports no other obligation than a life estate wbicn Mr
Galan will pay to Mr*. Xinpa Garza, widow of Rich, of f20.00 annually for each day of
water of \he San Francisco, and 12.00 for each day of water in the Roeon plantatKm.
havine to dediici fnm siid land of the San pTanci^co plantation oar piece of land
aevemy meters front by aeieniy meters in depth, which Mr. Galan arjld to Mr. Genero
Goaianio. according to'inscription ^20. folio 40. Vol. XXII, of Book 1 of the jiropertv.
And at the ar^licitude of Mr. Celedonio Galan is eiven the pre-eent rertificatKm in t£e
city of \LoTxf\<jiraL on the &-th day of the month of February. 190$
F. VALDEZ IXAVO.
SecTT;^. MiiiiesL* Mr. r^ledoni.* Galan. that ba^in^ agreed to the tran^cfence
of the six days <A water in the San Franci^-o plantation, and to which is referred in
the <^*ni5ca;e • f li>^eni^ <A obligati'^n which has l^een inserte-i in the antecedent
dao^ with Mr. Martin J. Beniley. repres^ented in this a<:t bv Law^-er Salvador Garza
Castiiion. By the present inKnimeni he sells, cedes. aa*f trkii-^ers referred to ax
daj"? r4 wa;er- wi:L ti* rxrrespondine la&d§ of fields and pastures, with all iLe apptir-
tenar^cer }jel''^Tiziiiz to. pc^st and present, and with all an^i by right corresponding to
said lan^ La^-fr^ Mr. <jalan a/^-o'iired said pr«:'peny in <^.:iiiaiC'a with others of the
same '^laa* 'r.y title i donati'/n fr>ra Li? matenial gran^icjotLer- Mj«. Xinf^a Garza,
widow ri Kkh it* inly shown in the re?j*«fiive deed of :be €tL day of -\-jgTist. 1303.
paase»i be-f'Te iLe ri>Tari\ wb> authorizes the present. ai::d registered with da:e 11th
rA skii.^ LT. r.-r. ari i year. ur,der the number 3^44. folio 121 aril 122. Vol. XX 3D of
Ekiok 1 lie 1 :Le prcpeny. wLirb instrument I give iaith. the notary having had
sight i.T thif i/'tr.-'.-wWizn:^?!:.:.
Tl.iri. Ti.e prLc-e agre^i f >r iLis traasfe?en^^ is the quantity <A 121.000.00. Of
said v^lvjie M.". «>alar; ii^.nfeaees ha-iing received l^fore this act in cash to his entire
«tiria/:^.i r. it n'A tfriz^ j^f*i=ez.i ibe delivery, ren'.'unce? a/:-ceptanoe of uK^ney ik*
delivere^i a? re:i.is ii. ariK^es !C»&3 and 10S^ of the ci^il <-ode. and for the remaining
$10.(W>.0i'j Mr. Bei.:iey will give acr^jrding to agreement a note to «der payable in
ax uy.iiih* ir-.nL date A this' r^-ntra^i. remaining as semriiy and guarantee of said
pajTiier.: :r. liv>r f :':.<? seller the said same fix days '.-f water and land which is matter
of this sij*-.
FounL. I> :L '.Le c^ntra/iiirg p^anies declare that the price ^A the land matter of
this izjr.ri:i.f:i.\ j- yiri and leea!. F.r saii lea^r-n there is no omision or errcr, but
if iLere *r.'. il i >^ :L«ry wili Luake a ier'ip#r:<al and mutual donaik/n of the difTerenoe
wLi'^L r*rrri.'^' : ,- -.:.<r en^r: r«-r..-ii.i^ ar.i'te 2^5<>. ci'v-il code, with the time to ask
the r*»*trF: r. f - z.-.r^fr. p in^s ',-; ani'^le i^/Xl of same cr^e. obligating himself, the
feller. : '.Le e.-i :; .". ar.i Tarr^i.-.y '-f this f-*^ ntra/^i in the terTL.s e!$^ablis£ed by ani^le
2*?^; :r. -ri*-.' a', ve i-e^i.
F::'':.. T:.- !•.: I^TR-y^r >A'.vi.i.T Garza Castilion. wi:h foun-iation from anides
!_ :'.-::. *:.*r rf-T^-a'^eo ^:'»"il f^>ie be gives as having secured the
r-. :.*r :i.-i- .::.*-^ : r hir Mr. Manin J. Bentley and arrnep^^ this instru-
I, *: re^^:v:r.i: :h*r <:riz:r.a] d**»i ^A pr^-peny. to which reference has
*-.• r.:.*i'r Tr :•*-.•* y :' :he vend-c*". f>ut a note c-.-rresj^jiDdiiig to the
i.-: . r. •* Li h i/ kr. : Tr:*:ri^*-r :his transference.
J. « y^.'-z.i -a", i TT :f K-ch. wh al=*f^ wac present at this act. said: Has
-^ r.. • -.-': I.: «'>ilin. h*T i-oil o.t:s«j: to bring to an ^nd iLe cele-
- :.- :r.T^-'. -yh: h sh^ appn^ves ani ratiM expreslv in aU its
- * • ,*- -. s.: L *.:::.-«:• '.. :he validity ^A the stipuiatiorj* fcierein coty-
■r : i^-.ir.i' '^ r. r-iiran'yr^b^i V/ h':r sutisfa/tK-n the ri^ts in the
::. *:.* v.T.'.-r ll^i.:: i-^i in '*nih^^te. free frvm obli^tion, that
-: ::. :hr :-.-< LjUj^ i tr-is c^tra/.t. a/x*:riirig to wivate ag^e<^'
-T-i : . ^ir. i=»Ti. aif*? signing in testimony cf it. I. the notary.
y.T- 'i^-sry-^T Silvipi'.'T <jarza Castilkn h-^iA ac<T*dii<f;d his l€isitiinate
- ' -=■:::. •.^ee^.in.r.y of a *p«:i*l n^aniate cfJzJffTz^rd to his £ivor by
-^ y :r. • \ P. D^a.^ Ihaz . fA this State, with date 3d of present
'-: r^ the n.tar^' pubiic. Mr. Manuel GaHndo Banerc.. such
.. sr.T^ liberally 3a\-s that ha-^ing to accept a contract of nle of
some prop^.ry iz. *±e iLuiiicipaliiy of Muzquiz. disoict <A Moodova, and not being
14:>: I'j
■J i:.: .•
pr.pf-ry
men: ?-:
^*- •
sepiLTi-.: :
rfii:h-
W- '::■':"'
^;.
Hf^:^
par*..-. i.r
taL-.-i'.
" " "m ' • •
quail*. y ji.- i'r. -:*;
has '-^rr- :-:r.. .'
m^r.: - ."
:. :.• r r-
mak- £7.
■?iT. T.ji*.
S^^jlr
-' T I. ,
mc^-i. •
: F^rr^i
mania:^
:r. *:.'^- :
renst]
2164 APPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAi>00 INDIANS.
able to be present at the execution of said deed, has given power of attorney to act
in his place, and having all confidence in Mr. Lawyer Salvador Garza Caetillon, of
age, this neighborhood, and profession of a lawyer; by the present instrument in
Sat way and form in which it has rights acknowledges that it confers special power
enough and sufficient as by right is referred and necessary, the heretofore-mentioned
Mr. Lawyer Salvador Garza Castillon, in the name and representation of the pur-
chaser, to intervene and accept the deed of salp of the six days of water in the San
Francisco plantation, municipality of Muzquiz, of this State, with its corresponding
land of fields and pastures that will be granted in his favor bv Mr. Celedonio Galan,
neighbor, of the village of MuzG[uiz, the price of ($21,000.00) twenty-one thousand
dolutfs, on the terms and conditions stipulated in the minute of yesterdav, deposited
in the office of notary public, Mr. Lawyer Edwardo Elizondo, notary of the village of
Muzquiz, so that in that act he will make in his name observations that will be
referred, being careful to fulfill all requisites that the law exacts for the validity of
the contract; and, lastly, so that at the opportune time receive the respective testi-
mony and the titles wmch protect the property of the real estate referred to in this
contract.
Seventh. The rights and costs of this jieed, its testimony, conveyance, stamps,
istry, and other costs which may originate, and all costs to be paid by the vendor.
Eighth. It has been a^ed that the products of the fields of wneat now being cul-
tivated on the lands which correspond to the six days in reference, half of same will
belong to Mr. Bentley, without having to incur any expense whatever for its culti-
vation, and will receive said wheat when harvested; the other half of said wheat will
belong to the lessee of Mr. Galan, excepting the portion of land being cultivated by
Mr. Atilano de la Garza, such crop belonging exclusively to said party, which will be
harvested in May proximo. ^ Then Mr. Bentley will take possession of the land at
present occupied by crop.
Ninth. The note for ($10,000.00) ten thousand dollars, in conformity with the
third clause, which Mr. Bentley will acknowledge in favor of Mr. Galan, he being
obligated to deposit same for its collection in Milmo bank in the city of Monterey,
where Mr. Bentley will find it, should he wish to anticipate payment.
It has been acknowledged; and often having read this decii' have manifested to
recognize the full legal value of the clauses herein contained, and has been subscribed
in conformity by intervening party, together with the instrumental witness, Don
Manuel M. Espinora and Don Oclavamo de Leon, married; the first, merchant by
trade; second, mechanic of this vicinity; the notary making it known that the c(»sts
for conveyance and public instrument, also stamps, as being accredited by certific^ate
copy placed within reach of the corresponding note that is registered, the interested
party being advised of the necessity of having the present registered within the
legal tenns in the corresponding office of public registry of this property, give faith,
Celedonio Galan, Maria C. Soto de Galan, Ninfa Garza de Rich, Salvador Garza
Castillon, Manuel M. Espenoea, Oclavano de I^eon, Edwardo Elizondo.
This second has been taken from the original for Mr. Celedonio Galan and is in
three leaves, with the nec*essary stamps that it has been a)rrected and certified that
the costs of stamps has been paid, as it is proven by certificate placed in reach of
the note that has been registered in continuation of the deed, and literally. "That
Lawyer Edwardo Elizondo paid in this ($217.00) two hundred and seventeen dol-
lars, the value of stamps attached and canceled on this note, according licjuidation
made by him under his responsibility."
Muzquiz, Ji(A February, 1906.
E. A. DEL T .
Jose E. Gonzalez.
Muzquiz, 12th July, 1906, give faith,
Edwardo Elizondo.
Xotary Public.
AFFAIBS OF THE XEXICAV KICKAFOO ISDIAXS.
2165
m ii- ^ n
sg g g g g g gggg g g
III |g 1 1 iiii I §
255II »s s* ^
S»S»S»S «5 —
s
« c -re
sS — > — - -► - —
4 I
I i
5 n »
S IS
ii 2
ii^ Si «*«
iii i ^i g iii)iili iiii i i
x?^x z^z
Z^ Z 2 ZZZ^ Z *
sizsi -I -;ii
Zx Z Se^2£ ^ Z ZZiC^ 3£
« ? « f
^ ^ i ^ i
1 1
1 II
— t
z
Z z "
ill
-Ti ff — fc "" ->'
'--^ :; cz
-z"^ = z -
«S=ZfiZ6ft
r i*"- f « 5 is 6 s2
?«
^=!« Hi i
■V'- 1 ^1
III
iW - - ^ s -
III ii^i^^i^iS: |5l3
^a ^ ^ ^ ^ < ^< < S <<
2166
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEZICAl!r KICKAPOO IZTDIAKS.
8 8 888888 8 8 8 8 8 88 8 88S 888 S S88 8
§ I muA A I A I A II I III ^11 I III I
II I:
:b
if
:n
C9 M «
. a ?3 a : : : :
oooo ooo o
3 :33 33
8 8 888888 8 8 8 8 8 88^ 8 888 888 8 888 8
t g Mmt g g i i i gr g g§§ ggg § ggg g
a : i
:2;
ii
• ->&
0
III
$Mi¥i
:00 OQ^t^ S
AFFAiaS OF THE XEXICAX KICKAPOO Dn»ASS.
2167
^
s s
ss
S
S
S '
^
-^ -i
^-i
,^
-i^
i
as X
XX
X
25 S
««
5
!«
i5
V
m r«
St 95
""
•
r«
1
>. 1
j^_
.
>-
1 1
^
s s
&5
H.
s
r
>!.
>k
5
z *
2
«
s
"5 =
2 s>
-
S
—
=
?
? «
«
2*
S
X
-a
i-.
b-
"i
i
>
.^•^ -
- a^-
->
-L**"
- .
S'
■^'
Ts,
5^^
=i
^
Ss.
«
•c
?;
__^
S.
H
r»
s
>h
£
>.>v
^
>v
2
•^
-^
-^
-^-^
~
"^
^. ^-= 5 :^
s s sg figgsg g 88g ^ g
i i il iiiii i ^ II I
:£ = :i* i«
if = i*.-^ s5P
Si
•:§^
St
§ §g XX XXX X figg gg g g g gg
i ii iiiii ^ HI ^ i g § §1
3 2 1-:;
-. f: f «-:
S c ^ 5_r-
r r
i - i. * * - --
Z
« -- JZ.
= 5 . - S
-« -■ i " c .!!
i ^ J ^i nu Is
r if
K a S ;£» - < <
mil:
E :*=s- .
2168
AFFAIB8 OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
filial «^ri
P 3 §1 is^
'l 'i fl ill
it A 0
i| gt '? a-^
§1 ^'^s-'^l
Or ^
|la-2«§.s5 Si ■
AYFAIB8 OF THE MEXfCOT KKHLAPOO VSmAMB, 2169
Ho. US [Good^
SfTJOK or Tttas. Matmdt Ccnmtg. m:
Kocrw all men by these presents, thst I, I nerii kin, of Mnqmz. in tbe BefraMkr of
Mexi^!y>. partT of the tet p«rt. in amaderMtioD of tbe sum g4 ^.000. in hand nud. the
receipt rj which is hereby acknowledged, do hereby giant, banin^ sdL tana conrey
onto V. W. Iv€«. fA Shawnee. Okla.. party of the second part^ the foUowin^-described
real prrfperiT and premises, atnated m Pottaaalouiie County, Okla.. to wit:
The N ^r4xhe >W. i of se«r. 12. T. 1 N.. R. 2 E.. Indian meridian, together with all
impp>vemen;^ thereon, and the appartenancee thereto beknging, and wanant the title
to the sazBe.
To have aryi to }y>ki said described premisee unto the snd party of the second part,
her heir? and aaEizos kfrerer. free, clear, and discharged rA miid brmk aD former grants,
charges, taxes. J!K!gments. iDortgsges. and other liens and enciunbcuices of whatso-
ever namre. aid grantor bein? an a^nlt Kickapoo Indian, herefoiore aHotted in Okhi-
homa. rsow rjr.nresident in the Uniied States.
Signed and deiivered tin* 3d day of Jtily, 1S06.
I SK8H Dx (her X mark;.
WitnesRs:
W. S. FiELn.
H- M. FrKXELL.
State of Texas. Mmerick CowUf. m:
Bek»?e m<e. W. A. Botmett. a notary pablic in and for the abore-named coonty and
Stase. on thi? 3d day of July. W0i, persr^nally appeared 1 nedi kin. to me personally
known \o \ft o^ id^ucal person wiM> executed the above deed, and acknowledged to
me that siie executed the »me ae a free and vofamtary wrt and deed for the tisea and
parpcaes therein se^ forth.
\% iiXjcsE iQv dzna£ii;e and c^Bcial seal the day and year last aboTe written.
W. A. BoxniT. Sctanf RMk,
My rr-iiiiaekn ^xpir^ Jiiy 30. i9<]r..
ir«2m!?r*fy diUffi/rr/m I n^sA Kn (o IT. W. /?«.
State of TEiA-r. }ic:€rv:k Counitf. **
Fileii ir. :hfr o^^:^ of the regifter of dee^d* *A said coonty. tlk& $th day erf July. 1S<K. at
o o'okxk p. ni., azid dtily recrjrded in bvjk 41 of deeds, on page 13.
Geoege Stose. RtgiaUr cf Dtttk.
ExHXBrr Xo. 114 [Gcrxie].
A: the narein a 5*^ whkh aayi: Jrizgado seoynd local mtamd local omit) Mtuqnia,
CoahuiLi. In vh^ '.-flLd^ ^.: M:i2/jiiiz on ih^ 22d day o^ June. 1!306. presented >>i™»lf
bef'.r^: thir r- ir: .: ilv ^Ljt^. ilr. G. A- Ouic^lt. American citizen, tempofxrily in
thi? v:I1a2^. r^pr^^?^ r-".d.*.iv^ ,: the N^.rtii .\irieTican Government, according to his own
fC^r.^ic'r::: ir.i ::: :h- '^I'rrriae cf the i^iniiikiaBion which Lis Government has intm^ed
to hir:: :o ir.vr^.iza'^- -.h^ rn^tt^^rr; whl'ih relive to the North Anaerican Kickaprjoe. wl»
a/* i^IIy re=: ir Ir, thiir j .LT-j^i:':*.:' n. Mr. O'it'-.eh presented a Kickapr» Indian. Mc John-
frr. —h , r'^: : h^ t^.- 2:? y.e:ir= ':: a^^e. t^ir^z from th^ Territory of Oklahoma. Uniied
Suv-^ ! .'.::.- r. i. ^r.-i i r^ ier.! ::r =r.iL- time in ihi« -.-illage.
Ir.v r--Ti*.r.r '>.- -ii: : Ir.iii^ ^hr ^:zh Mr. Pablo Ko^injriez. an interpreter nam«?d
f T :h^: r ^-r* ^ . ::-- : - ^r^t h^ Lii v. ftiiVr v., thi* cotsrt. he dfrdared a? follows: That I
wi* i: ■'.- • ' r.Til H •-: :r. :::i- -. iILiZ'^ i'r.»:ut the 4tL 'i-f thi* la^nth. talkinz with Mr.
L. * *7r.."-- ^r.'i :;:: rher irhite zu^n fr^.-n Oklahozsa Territory. wLti M. J. Bentley
f-^ir.'- Tri-'r. :* :.'*-- -r: ir.'i trok m*- -jt hy fr;frce fr^^-m the room oi these white in«»n^ ana
it^y • > £ - ♦ ■ . -i- -j-p .: th^ K:''ki{y» Indians already re^err*^ to and which is
r^^ • •:.- ^ir. rr^'. .^r^ ^r^tite. '::: the e<i^e of the .Sabinas River: that he did not
wir.- V r T r. -'r. ^^ mer.. -hj^t th^v t/x,k him bv force: that th^ fcrced him to fo
wit:. 'L^z:. -:_i' '.r.^/ Vtar:--: s L*/-!: with M. J. fi^ntievand a p>uceinan: that they
left hi- ^: :._- irr-t -r-s* .'irr.:. ?it tLa: Beniley forbid him to l^ave the camp: that
this t.'x.k pk^*^ i • • .: r.izh'Lill ; that on the following momine a pr^iceman came to his
caiL>p ^ii'i -s^: : tLit Heiitley wanted him. Mc Johnsc^. to sgn a paper, to which be
-T%13— S. I>>c, 2Ui. eO-1— vol 3 ^Id
3170 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
replied that he did not wish to sign it; that the policeman retired, returning again with
the same errand of Bentley's, and agiain he refused to si^ the paper; that the police-
man retired asain and in a little while returned accompanied by a servant of Mr. Roman
Galan; that the two took him by either arm and obliged him to go where Bentley was;
that when he arrived where Bentley was he again refused to sign the paper; that the
policeman had him by one arm and the servant to Roman Galan had him by the other
arm; that while they had him in this position the servant of Roman Galan hit him a
blow on the head with a big pistol; that his wife and some other persons of his family
were there, excited and crying, and in this way he was necessitated to sifn the paper
which Bentley wanted him to sign; that they did not read the paper to him, and he
does not know of what it treated, but he thinks it refers to his lands; that he repeats
that he did not wish to sign it; tnat Bentley forbade him to talk with the American,
L. C. Grimes: that he also forbade him to leave Mexico; that in the event ] 'e did leave
this country ne could not return, but would have to stay away from here.
Interrogated as to what else he had to manifest to this court, ne replied that this was
all he had to say, and signed with the subscribing judge, the inteipreter C. (citizen)
Pablo Rodri^ez, the American C, J. A. Outcelt, and the attesting witnesses.
We give faith.
VicTO. Rodriguez.
T. McJOHNSON.
Pablo Rodriguez.
J. A. OUTCELT,
A$n»Umt United States Attorney.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 22, 1906.
Cite the servants of the Roman Galan so that the^r can be brought before the Indian
McJohnson to say if he finds amonff them the individual who assaulted him, and with
respect to the policeman present, the same to the individuals who comprise them (the
policemen), so that he can designate which of them took him to his camp in company
with the servant of Roman Galan.
Decreed and signed by the second local judge.
We give fadth.
ViCTO. Rodriguez, F.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 23, 1906.
The Indian Mc Johnson beinj; present, the policemen, Antonio Menchaca and Cre-
sencio Sanchez, were shown him so that he could say whether either of them was
the one who took him out of the Central Hotel, the policeman Emeterio Valdez, being
yet to be presented to him owing to his absence ana on duty at this time; and, being
first duly sworn, after observing them Johnson stated through the interproter, Mr.
Pablo Rodriguez, that the policeman who took him is neither of the two presented
before him; that he was a man nearly old (middle-aged), low of stature, and wore a
white coat, and was with another man who appeared to be a policeman . because he wore
a pistol; tnat Bentley accompanied these (tnem). This he said, and after being read
to him and approved, he signed with his interpreter.
We give faitn.
VicTO. Rodriguez, F.
Pablo Rodriguez.
Mc Johnson.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rabrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 25, 1906.
Cite Mr. Roman Galan, so that he can say who are the persons he has in his service.
to the end that they may be cited for the execution of the order aforesaid. Decreea
and signed by the second local judge.
We give faith.
ViCTo. Rodriguez, F.
A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals,
Assistants.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAFOO r3n>lAS& 2171
On thk day ^^t^eared \tr. J. A. Ootcclt before tbif court mud nnnifested that in tbe
disdiarze of the *yymmiaafm otf his Govemmcnt. wlkkli he repreKxits^ he aa^ that the
dedancbj^Qs? b^ L^^en of the Kkkaprx^ TfyliiTW Ah t«ii ye tucc. Fi pia «h^ pia. Home
And<«5r;ti. «VQ;a kii 5rj«, so that ihey can say what ihey 'kacfw fA the cooaoct of M. J.
Becdey wirii di-eni with re^eneBsce to the land* which they ci?wn in Oklahoma. This
he fcar^^ ^^lStjts^ hs« interpreter. Mr. Fiblo Eodn^ex, and after bein^ read to him
thev 51231^-
l^e give faith.
YlCTO. RODEIGCEZ. F.
J. A. OrrcEXT.
Pjlblo Rodkigczz.
A- A. Faicox.
A. F. Waim.
fRabrir^l
MrzQCiz. /oti^ i^, 1S06.
Tbi? 'isv f •^ir:^ pne«eiit the KickaiMO Indian. Ah ten ve tuck, he wae doly sworn
thfTj'oaii h^ Ln'^Tpret:er, Mr. Pablo Rodrienez. and Hated his name to be aas abneadj
writs*^ii. >> y*-a^ of aee. tDatrried. born in OUahoo^ Territory. Umsed States of Amcr-
ira. xrA rieBihh<;r of ihjs villaee at the Hacienda San Francisco ; by profeflSKn a laborer.
B*:in:Z afk«eti wha^ he desired thro^izh hi* aforeaaki appearance here he said: That he
kibow? M. J. B^ndey and W. S. Field; that Johnny Mme came ap to where he was and
•npplka^^i Liin lo eo where Bentley wa§ aori Men a p^per and also that hif wife go and
*izn I' : zIlaZ -ii^y b»:^ii refiised to go; that Wah pah che qoah came up to him and told
th<rm ',o r. ••'. h^mlfrj tio fizn that paper and a^am they retired ; that a Mexican ^Aic^
man r^m-r ^'i arr^t<r<i them, takii:^ them to where BenfJey was; that he Bentley>
a»i4 ifj "ix^m riL»r. if they did zifA «ign ?Jie peeper he would send them to Mnzqniz and
have -.fc.'^-rs. p^i*. in i^O. sij-iue that thev wo^ild be taken on foe*; that then the declar-
ani an^i hi* -arirV sijii<^ ''iie paper to feendey wiibofit knowia^ then or now the con-
ten^.- c *i: i ;^<ip-^: '.liin they A^i nfA want to sign thi* paper, bat they ieared bein^
pris ;n ; iiL i.- B^r.'I-y ^i-i he woold do; that prior to this he had «everai €4 the Indians
^rr^z^.i ir. : pLir>^i in jail in Mazqriiz. compeilin^ them to go on ioot onder custody;
r.har. h- iN> irr'^^.«^i a rr^fiifi^lefable nfimber of ocher lEidian:*. and n&ade them agn the
pap*^ T'^t^rT'^ v.: fiiai: he aL*o forfcade him to talk to G. A. Oatceh or any other white
man. ir. i -.hj-r h- -h ^ili !k-«: sr. oot of MeTicr>. for if he did he wocild arrest him and
h;iv^ hini r'^rr^rr.*'i irA ph^i^i in. ptH. and that he told hi* wife the same thine. Thi*
h»: &'A thr iztL hi- L- !:erpf»rter. and after bein^ read to him and approred he did not
fign becar^^ h- tt^taA 'Jhir, he «iid no< know how.
W*- giv^r f:ii'h.
ViCTO- RoDDGfEZ F.
FaBUO RODKfGfEZ.
A- A- Faloos.
A. F. Wal«.
'Rrifcri^-':*/
MrzQoz, /smr M. 1906.
h^TJZ cr«^r.- '.he Kirkstv^rj Indian. Homer Anderson, he was duly fworn. throqrfi
the in:r'Tr^?:er, >fr. Par !o fto*iri2^iez, the 6r5t named rtatin^that he waa 22 years oM,
marT:-H't/'«'.rr. irt •'»kiih'-.nLa Terrinory. and an actual resvlent here. Being asked
whar. L-- k- -^^ Tr;:h r'^-irren^e to Mr. Otxtcelt'* re*|ae«*:. he said; That he kar^w? M. J.
Ben^I-rv ini W. '^ p.^-i. TB-h'.- have bee^ at hi± Indian oamp the better part of the
hs^, <U-.": B-r.->v Trar--.»H^ him to ?igii a pap*^ the content? of which the declarant
did r.. - £Tj ^ ''r^' h^ trrX ?^nt Johnny Mine fripplicating him to «ign faid P^V^9
whif /:. h ' r-r.-^i ir i 'hrr. he rent Wa pah *he q^sah with the same refjaest. and then
^*^A'.T:2 J. M-i: .ir. r* I: -nan to arrest and take him to where Bentley was. and he
tili hi'.-. ":..i*. :: "*^ r^^rif^i to ?ign he wotild *efid him to Maz^yaiz by the poticeman
an-i !'.■ :..::; ir. >:'.. — :i'€iriS' him zr- on fx.-s. ?akyms thk to Lim after he was tznder
arr'^t . "h-i* r.- i: : r.r " -iplain t-; hfm n»"/r did he know the contents of the paper: that
thi- :. • £ : Li. - *: ti-" -=-re'f : that Bentley iorf:»ade him to vi«it or talk loG. A. Ontcdt
or Tr::h ir.y • :h-r -srh:-^ n^in fr. c Oklahr^-ma; he also aaid that he was goti^ to send
tL- T^-,^ " T 'h-T Tnth -ho^e -'.: th^rr?. to Ea^e Paas. Tex., io that if any of them
left M-i: • •; -v tt. Ji '-- irr»^'^i an*! retrimeti; that Bentley obligated and arrested
oth^ I' :.^r.- *- -izn th- t/aji-^r r'rferr^ t*j. without kir^wine what t'hev weresgniii^
E» r i: i i- 'ir^r t kr^ tt -rhat h^ nzn-ed; that he ha^ been a^aid to tali to any penoo
ah«:rLt thi-- r.i---- that B*-nriey has been living with an Indian wrAoan caDed Amne
Pecan : h^r tent i- ah<,^t a haii'mile somhens of the main camp of the IikHmw, ^
2172 AFFAIBB OF THB KEXICAIir KICKAPOO INDIANS.
he liv«B with aud woman, and that distance from the camp of any other Indian; that •
what he has said is the truth, and after heing read to him by his interpreter, he affirmed
andsigned.
We give faith.
ViCTO. Rodriguez, F.
HoMBR Anderson.
Pablo Rodriguez.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 26^ 1906.
Bdng present, the Kickapoo Indian Cha ku sot, he was duly sworn through the
interpreter, Mr. Pablo Rodriguez, and stated his name to be as written, 43 years of age,
widower, bom in Oklahoma, and bein^ a resident of the colony of Nacimiento of this
village (probably meant district). Being questioned in the anterior form and whether
he IS the owner of lands in Oklahoma, he said that he is owner of a farm and a house in
Oklahoma Territory; that he knows Mr. Bentley and Mr. Field; that Bentley asked
declarant to sign a paper, which he refused to do the first time, and that the second
time which he asked him to sign he was at the Central Hotel, and having refuHed, he
sent a servant of Roman Galan armed, who apprehended him and placed him in
^1; that afterwards the same person came and took him in a bumy to the camp where
bentley was, who told him that if he did not sign he would send mm to prison in Okla-
homa ror five years, and then he si^ed without knowing its contents; that Bentley
did not offer him any money for his lands in Oklahoma; that Bentley threatened a
great many of the Indians that he would send them to jail on foot if they did not sign
that paper, and most of them siened it; and he furthermore told them that he was
authorized by the jefe politico, Mr. Guajardo, to send them as prisoners to Ea^le Pa^
and leave them there without passage money ^return ticket); that Mr. FitHd does
not say or do anything ag[8inst the Indians, only he keeps in Bentley's company.
This he said, and after being read to him he approved, through his interpreter, not
siffning because he knows not how.
We give faith.
ViCTO. RoDRKil EZ, F.
Fablo Rodricukz.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MtTZQiiz, Jiinf J6, J906.
Being present the Kickapoo Indian Pa pia thep pea, he was duly sworn through liis
interpreter, Mr. Pablo Roariguez, and stated that his name is as written, 36 years of
affe, married, bom in Oklahoma, a laborer, and a neighbor of this plare on the estate
of San Francisco. Being c[uestioned, he says that he knows M. J. Bentley and W. S.
Field; that about the 4th instant he was at'his tent or shack at the Indian camp n(»ar
Muzquiz when Wah pa che ouah came up and told him to go where Bentley was to
sign a paper referring to his Oklahoma lands; that he did not gr), and John Pecan came
to him and said, "Bentley needs you and wants you to sign a paper;" that hc^ told
Pecan he would not go and sign; that then No ten came up and seemed to be very
angry and said that I should not si^ the paper: shortly afterwards a Mexican, who
carried a pistol, came up and took him by tne arm and pushed him and made me ^) to
where Bentley was; that he (Bentley) asked him if lie wantc»d to sign, and added
"there are two roads here, which do you want to sign (showinj? two documents ^" and
he (declarant) said neither of them; that Bentley asked him where ho was ^oing
to live if he did not sign those documents; that he designated one of them and said
that if he wished to remain in Mexico he had to sign, and that if he did not wish to stay
he had to sign the other one; that then he touched the pen, and does not know what
mark he made, and that then Bentley said, *'Now we are all friends;" that he did not
then know nor does he now know the contents of that paper, but he understood at th(»
time that it affected the title to his lands in Oklahoma; that Bentley offered him no
pay whatsoever for his lands. This he said, and after being read to him throupli liis
interpreter he approved, not signing because he statecl that he knows not how.
We give faith.
ViCTO. RODRKUKZ, F.
Pablo RoDRirjiEZ.
A. A. FAixi-oN.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO WDlAHSw 217S
MuzQciz, JmmetS, IMS.
In y\ew fA the aioreaud pwxeeding^ pioeeei to the deteotioD of Mr. IL J. ITftfay,
azkd baTine b^^ti crbtaiiKrd, lake his jiMkial toonify mud neflort to all odier hikbbiji
ppjc^fls tTf riarifv adjiidicatf' of investssat^ tke a<!t denoonceii by the Kiclnmoo
Is/i^n:?. zi^nziS acrrioiit of th.<e inisthatmg of this caofie u» the fiopcfior trflMnuu of
Victoria xo Ro»nffirsz, F.
A. A. Fajxos.
^P.Fif,n^5^ T A. F. WAiif.
Mcrzariz, /ume Z7, 190$,
b^iz^ pr^i^nr.. the detain^ M. J. hentley and the interpreter, 3lr. Fablo Bodmuez,
he "«^« a/i'i-i*^^- ai is r^qoir*^ uiyi^ Fiac. 1 <if article 15!§: of the Code of CriminarPl&'
o^'^*"'. and beiiig e^i'neR^T oa^^tion^. stated that his name is as written above;
thar. h-r Li 4fi Tfars old. marri^. aJS^yfiiey-, bom in the United States of Americm, r»-
id-enr. 'f Sr-i'iTi'^. Okla.. tempr^ranlY in this villa^. It was then made known to
him iLin th'r obje^ of hL« d«rf.etinion was that he had been accnsed by the Kickapoo
lijA't^zi* T^idiz^ hfre ifjT ir&ud in n^s^Jtd Us their Oklahoma intengu, and that be cm
name a decen-ier aecomey > at oaee if he d^sris to do so. Beim^ asked if he has bad
tiad'^ <.r tnsin^rss wiih the Kickaijr» Indian McJohnson. if he'h»i to ogn a docn-
meTiS r.r BeT-'Jey. what fir>n of a oocament waa it: if he agreed to atpi it at once or
T^-if^i '.r, d -r ir. : \i he siened it or Dot. what petaon« had knt/wlitfUi^*: of this tnuMactioo,
imer-.eT:^ in ^has master. He replied that he has had no tnwf«es or boan^fls what-
ar>e%eT. eicep". t;Lat he kjoned him 'Mc Johnson > |5. which be «tiD owf«: that the
Indian Mo J hnj<>fi has szned nodorrmient which rWers to interests: that he did mgn
a Visr. on Ts^fci^h are the csames of the Rickaprxis who wish to reside in Mexico or reCnm
v> uLe United -Stane*: iLat he did not ^^ the bst at once, bfit Tf^fow^ u> bis camp
and ii^.'^TTrar L*. an^:r ae^/eral consultaiir^iM. he sizned it voluntariiy; that this tool
pla/-^- t-s- V x-ee'o ajzrr. nyvre or les*. and there were many Indiai^ present, bat he docs
uw retr.*-m''>:r ar. ihi* m/>€neiiS who the\- were. Bein^^ mk^A ii he ever sent to call
hrm fr.m -rts '^iiLyfe for the p'arp^>?e of s^zninz thi§ list, by what person: that he nerer
set:: *> <^all him: that the ^^tfcer Indians called acrroncil tr, eject Mc Johnarjn fiom tbe
iri'-j^r '.n iz-^'-^nn oi hi? ^tk'i f/efaa-.ior and ht* blo^yi disease, and that with this oMed
tt^ *&. i In:i.in '-.lime %o Mfiz^'air and here talked to deponent ^Bentleyi to set nim
no li -r.-r rr.^r.?:ef u;. i;r him with the other Indians, and he iscit the matter &ed up
finally, ini vn rr^ins? v> Mizoaiz he learned tha£ some white men had this Indian
d'-'-iin^ni :n i r,*om of the b^/^ef and he sens ior him Mc Johnson* by a policentan to
le^. h.m £Tj'.v r.:^T. hi» master had been nied with the other Indians, which be bad
keen iven iir.^ v. f >r him. and aidr^ to ?et him liberated from where he wm becmse
th^-y TT-r- rl' .n? hiin inv>ii<3^?ti»- Beine asked if he knew whether tbe Indian
Mr J :..'-•* n :^d f/^-n asrariirM. and by wh^>m. he responds that he does not know of
i'. ;i^- .:. r i- •:--: .: h-^- hj.-- h^-i irad^r* or b^k^in*:ss with the Indian Ahtenyetock; if this
Ir.'i-^r. :^- - i-:-.-^: i 'i x'ii:.enn f.r him. of what character, and whether tbe Indian
ret -2^1 '.-'j -i^T. 1*. r si^n'^i :: v^I'in'-Anlv, he aatd: that the bnsinesg wh:f:h he has bad
Tn'h "r.L- I'-:sin Ti* v. ^-: h.rn *-:r^,' i* ^ h.-/i*e f.r ^10 worth: char, he ha^s D*ot agned
any •: -''— n-.-^n*. :. .* *.h- L-t -r;.:^ h tt^^ r*-t-rT*<i to at 6.r«ti only, bit a.4 thw was a matter
•. : ' L' .■' •- :". •B'i,- Tis • •-/'-.:. .21 ".- r;.-. ir.i h- r*-n:,»-ni''^f« that he *izned it vohintarilT. Being
o- -^'. r.-f-^i .7. '.:.-'• ■=&::.': : rrr. -s-.'.h r^-f^ren^-e to the Indian. Honker Aodffrarm^
:.^ 7-z',.-< *.;..i*. :;.►- '.•'-.-.n--*^ h-- h^* r^i "Brth thi* Ir^iian wa.* so lend him |25or|30.
ir. i Li- : f i'* .-2. y^ij h- h.^* ':^d i ?»'^ 2» Id fr>m him oq inter*^: chat this Indian
-5-^. : •■---'.- .iT. : j..'"^i: ir ..'•.errjr^r^'^T : ,r *<.me other Indianis to *izn the !i*ts referred
V. >'. : •:.::.■<- •hi* :.- •. • -izT.'^i: '.h^t -srith r«^?pe<t to this Ir^dian h*i olMSffnrfAMCn
hi- i.T'-* w.s.- -<-:.'- -5r:.i:e m-ti toEd him that he had to appear beio^e the judge to
r.jt.ii'' h, :-• ■ iri*. :. r -^t-^ ':r^' th*^ P*P-^ which he signed for Sir. Otitcelt at the canp;
tLi*. *:>- [_-* :.'. •. :--^':: ' Tri* r^ade -.o ascertain wfc/> wonld stay here in thM caon>)
an : •■'. '--- ^:. ■»-:-:.-< to 2^ to aa»^/theT camp, so as to arrange \9hAf\ifai and to maJLe
n^ '.'^ i.^ " :- - -• r.-i-.> >: tr-it this list was signed by aix>at Wi Indians, cmhr a few
'^>r:ni- i' ^ '. Tcr.: , .: '.he others signed by mark; that, fnrtbermore^ this liit was
:nt-^r- : -: * '.:.- a ithonties kiryw' which cf tbe Indiana woold stay and wiiicfa
J'^v- r.^ -.i--< th.i:. :n the list there are sr>fne who are minons. bm their pomiis gare
th^:." '- :..^-z.' : r th-n-. v r^^n thetr names. At this stage the tierhaadirm m mspeaded
•r. t:_i-. :* :.'.^y -.-=: a:r.pliiied if neceaeuy. and after bemg read to him by his inter-
preneT. Mr. Pablo KAnzueL. znd in the pfesence cf tbe own paniciilar inteqpeCer
2174 APFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
of the defendant, he was satisfied, and added, that this list was made at the request
of the chief of the Indians, according to their wishes. Signed.
We give faith.
VicTO. Rodriguez, F.
M. J. Bentley.
Pablo Rodriguez.
Enrique C. Castallanos.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 26, 1906.
In view of the foregoine declaration, let the defendant and the complainants con-
front each other. Decreed and signed by the second local judge.
I give faith.
VicTo. Rodriguez, F.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQuiz, June 28, 1906.
Beinff present, the detained M. J. Bentley and the Kickapoo Indian, McJohnson,
bein^ 6st duly sworn through the interpreter Mr. Pablo Rodriguez, to effect a con-
fronting for the discordance which results from their declarations consisting in setting
down (or asserting) the hrst (Bentley) that the Indian McJohnson has not signed any
document for him which refers to interests, and that he did sign a list of those Indians
who desired to reside in Mexico or return to the United States, signing this voluntarily;
while the Indian Mc Johnson asserts that Bentley took him from tne Central Hotel
with a policeman by force to the camp, so that he would sign a paper for him (Bentley).
which ne refused to do, and that for this reason a servant of Roman Galan's assaulted
him, making him sign the paper j and calling their attention to this issue well defined,
the first (Bentley) said: That it is not true what his confronter asserts, because he was
not assaulted in his presence and he asks that he tell what day and hour this occurred
and who were present; that he sent for the Indian McJohnson and called him, without
force, by the policeman Emeterio Valdez, to let him know that his matter with the
other Indians had been settled as deponent has already stated. McJohnson said:
That it was not by the policeman Valdez by whom he had been called out of the hotel,
but by another who tooK him all the way to the camp where he was assaulted about the
4th or 5th of the present month, and tnere were present Pah pah.tha pa, Pha na ka
tho. Ah nee he ucu, and many other Indians, aoout 3 in the afternoon, the place
being at the home of the Indian chief where said paper was signed; he added that
there were present his wife, his mother, and some other relatives, who were crying.
After various reconventions which they made each sustained his assertions, bringing
to an end this diligence (this step of the proceedings) which was read to them by the
interpreter in the presence of Attorney Julio Galinao, who was present at the request
of the defendant, and they signed.
We give faith.
Vicro. Rodriguez, F.
Mc Johnson.
M. J. Bentley.
Pablo Rodriguez.
Julio Galindo.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz. June 28, 1906.
Beinff present, the detained M. J. Bentley and the Indian, Homer Anderson, being
first duly sworn by the interpreter, Pablo Rodriguez, for the purpose of causing the
confronting of them because ol the conflict in their statements consisting in the first
named asserting that the Indian, Anderson, had signed the list or paper for him volun-
tarily, and that he nas had no other business with him except to lend him money,
while Anderson asserts that lie was taken to the presence of Bentley by force to sign
and that if he refused to sign he wdhld send him to Muzquiz to jail, and that he made
him sign that paper without knowing its contents; and being fully appraised of all. they
were made known of the conflict of statements, and the Indian stated that the paper
which Bentley presented to him he signed voluntarily; that he did refuse at the begin-
ning because he did not know its contents, but that as soon as said Bentley explained
it to him he signed without any intimidation or threat whatsoever being made. Being
AFFAOS or THE lOEDCkM KICKAFOO OmUVa 8176
adtcd by Bcmley why he lad gnwi die fat muitwmm aboie, he coald giyg wo wmm-
bmorj TfABrm, hnnfpam to a doae ddi diligum t whidb ww sad bj die iata^mgr^
jtOid chey wVj bad coitfrnmed tiigiifri,
Wegnneimh.
IL J. Bkstlkt,
Hons AsDSSscw.
Pabu> Bonacciz.
A. A. Faloos.
[Bobfics-r A. P. Wau.
MuzQciz, AaKf», X5<».
Xcv, mt ^ o'cicck in die Biieoiag wis icceiied br the aDden%Ded jodee, i
crwitmmvimiiQQ fnoi 3lr. Bctnaido BIsdco. the jocli^ m chufe of thk coon, in ^
he ft^ics ha^viocr reiizhqcddked the ca0» of th» coon ^^
letaraa^diec&dttfi^otfthedatkeotfhiiodke; in thk eonnectiQB he 1
ctfthe caaeemad other peodmg bumnem. the vhkh ii nnde a leoofd.
Give iauth.
Ymo. Eauaecm^ F.
A. A. FALCcm.
A, F. Wai*.
[Robric!^
MrzQciz, AoK 19, /sa(.
Beisfpreseat. the lodiia Ifack Moisan, Mr. Feliz Gooim. a pcnon who wotka tat
Bfimaa Galazi, wm shryvn t/> him. simI sid Indim sid that sid mdiiidual west w^
a fobcemakCi. irbo had taken him oot of the hoceL aiwl that the polkeman turned faJM
over to Gii«TTa. vik> try>k hzm m a cnach hack; to tiu& amp: that the jwliceoBii if the
ooe wbo M accTianT prcsi»c CMV, Emeterio Taldez. Tlw oe flud. a&dadber beia^ feed
t£r fazm tbrjfsd^ the mierpptter, 3lr. I^U^ Bodr^^nez. he vik st^9«d^ addioc, that
thif xzhdividQal G^^ena vv the maa who sinicfc him die blo«!i whkh he icfared to hi
hi* ftatetzkens. and sgiaed.
We give faith.
BrnDTAKDO BlJLS€X>.
Macx Johssov.
Pablo Boobkcib.
A. A. Faxoos.
A, F. WaM.
'Rafarica.]
B^insr preseit. pr^ireman Emeterio Valdez, mod hang dnlj swianu fCalca that hm
BAirie ss 3;s vmtecu a^ed 4^ vcan. manried. an officer d this locaiitT. Bcbb^ qnea-
tkicied acrxifiiin^ zo ti^ loatter, he «jd: That he did at the icqoea oc BentJey go aad
caQ the Indiaa v^ ULke Zlcn lo his hnatr: he wect mu> the Ho£el Ceatnl and hitm^ftl
th^ fn/foir. o<i? and d^Hreeed him to bentler aiwi Fetix Gaaza, mad he know ao
i&«on&. lli^ b« said, acd beiziig md to him he ^ipRTved, net •y^^g lniciiM he
fta&ed be k]:ieT crx hryw.
I give ^ith.
BlXXJLKDO ^.ajsoo.
A. A. FAUXf%.
A- F. WAia.
Mrmmz. ^iow i9, jsm,
h^^Liz presecc. Felix Grsem. he was fwrvn id due forrn^ and he stated that hii wmmtt
i& ag: ^rrnr^n, .t r»> j^ar? of aee. a vvk^ver. lab^jfer, aiMl of this place. Beiar qnea-
tir.c^ in 'Xl:a zi^zzer. be *aid That afru^ thejKilicemafi took the TfJtMi* SfackMrngoB,
o«it ',€ *ii^ hr.^-^l hfr. in o.^panj vt'ii Mr. BentJej. went with the Indian in a hack,
and after \^jii^ *cci#e ihrr.g* tiiy Tec; to the camp ia Mr. Bentky'* b*ck, the dqiiK
LiOkt tj^Cjz in -iiie ierrii:^ -< feeciLl^y. that the it>iJowiD^daj Bcntiej. Germa ** *^
aod 'l^ 4^^.zj^z.i -m-^sxZ Vj tbe hrj^kse kA Mack Johnacn and there the fiat i
the Indi^ ulked. ':.-:;'; the vicc>aB did OAit ondeotand any of tt^ aa the lalkiDg waa m,
Ffkgfyh: ^i::^? fr: en duerisr die? wise t to the hooMB of other Indim ind dw^
mauess -si^icb. ne d^ zj^x cr^mprehecML and no one wm with BentJey hot die wttncai
aod Saacbe^ -rh: vere ar:aed Tith p^ols, bccacne they were at the
tot not in ibe> cnan/n:^ of iKtice; tittt there was no dirtaibance whati
oneaamohed: txtatthelafianvheB he waa taken cot of the hold via
2176 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
«Bked if he knows or saw Mack Johnson mga a paper for Bentley, he said: That he did
not see it nor does he know. This he said, after which it was vsad to him and he
approved and signed.
We give faith.
Bernardo Blanco.
Felix Guerra.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
C. JuEZ, f* -local (second local judge):
M. J. Bentley, American citizen, in the process directed against me by t^t court,
by virtue of an accusation against me by the Kickapoo Indian named Mack Johnson,
before you make appearance and respectfully say: That, according as I am able to
understand, my accuser imputes to me the act of having obliged lum to sign a docu-
ment by force by which he pretends that he transferred to me certain properties which
he owns in Oklahoma Territory, United States of America. In my inquisitorial declar
ration I explained to the court under youi honor's charge that the document in ques-
tion did not make such a transfer, but it was simply a list prepared to take the vote of
those Indians who had eminated from Oklahoma to Mexico who desired to settle here
and sell their holdings in tne Territory referred to, with the object of forming a com-
mon fund and acquiring certain properties in the Republic of Mexico for the suste-
nance of the tribe. In proof of my assertion I now exhibit the list which has been
referred to, asking the court to have it shown to the accuser. Mack Johnson, and order
him to say if that is the document referred to in his declarations, and also to say
whether he recognizes as his writing his name as it appears on the second paee of the
list. I ask also that said list be exhibited to whatever of the witnesses wno have
referred to it in their declarations to the end that they may sa}r whether the convey-
ance referred to has been made therein as stated. As the writing at the head of the
list is in English and it is of the utmost importance that the court know its significance,
1 pray that it be immediately translated mto Spanish by such clerk as the court may
designate. My petition bein^ made as of right to you, honorable jud^e, I beseecn
that you make proper provision therefor, in the conception that in aoclition to the
customary pretexts I make the formal one of not recognizing in that court more juris-
diction than it has in law.
M. J. Bentley.
MuzQUiz, June t9, 1906.
Received at 9 o'clock of the morning of its date.
Witness.
Rubric.]
the margin. Second local judge, Muzquiz, Coahuila.
s
MuZQUiz, June 29 y 1906.
Having been presented, in all as a matter of right, with the accompanying lists,
make the presentations ot these to Mack Johnson and to the other witnesses, as is
requested therein. Decreed and signed by the second local judge.
We give faith, add to the antecemng.
Bernardo Blanco.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
[Rubrics.]
MuzQuiz, June £9, 1906.
Present, Mr. M. J. Bentley, and the following order was made known to him, and,
as being fully informed, he signed with the witness, M. Pablo Rodriguez.
I give faitn.
Bernardo Blanco.
M. J. Bentley.
Pablo Rodriguez.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
[Rubrics.]
Following on, let it be added to the cause.
Witness.
[Rubric]
Muzquiz, Jwne 29, 1906.
For the purpose of causing confrontal I caused to appear Mr. Felix Qnerra and the
Indian, Mack Johnson, for the conflict which is noted in their declarations, consisting
in the iDdian noserting that Guerra was the person who struck him the blows, and he
Mnjom or the mcnr^m mxausoo onuam S17T
he Mated kii ame till be M 1
" * la he J • ' - .^ - ..
v^ ^vhkh he had bsm cited, be «ad: b k nw £he ciaiiM that M^^
Qwm made of biisk ibut he sad vitMBB we K^ettber viib BcHlejr ai die bow al
lanoQf IsftdiiaK. Im ajuma did aot fcaonr vbat tbejr were calkiBif about. baoHHe
Iker «i«e cffeakiBf in R^rfyb hot aeitberdid heaeeaajraaeUI<Ma <qaanei)«Bar
wgieagT<»eg inwiiihed- llattbeTVBPeal»attbebMHe<iMMk JbbanaitbMtbii
ladins. ar a^^ TsiifMv '.nbeR. be ciaed at die awpwwr «l Beatier. ior «bos be vaa
vwidi^ aa^ ikmj vese died to fbe bMue o< the ladiaa chief: that tdhif ladiaa waa
<»e ol ibrjee cibM v^ af^igwdir azkd oigs arjooe mkse. a£«d vixDes mt ibii ladim aod
4«bief9 Ttgn TwhuMaiily arhhiciiii hcs^ ouaapeilBd io ^^k k*. Iasi be dues act knoar vliat
Idad <i papeK tber vfnr. aa^d Tij«& ther acsed diNenr vcpe mtaiir LodiaDf preaeot.
He »p«aMd vhat W Lac iOaMid aad aficr mdisg 3i& hais he ^proved, dcx *if*^
becakTue he tused he kzr.>«7 zka he v
WefrrefiHiiL
BESXAKZiiO BL43BCO.
A.A.Fau30K.
A.F.WA1A.
Fresezii. the IxidiazL Mack jofaaaoo. bj Tinae <qI the veqMM 4I Mr. BcBilejr ai bia
petiiictQ. azhd tS^ bcsc pnaested voe Aiaa to Uai. and bavin^ aeea tbeai aad aBoq^
wmA 'Jjec=L ^tr-TxA the cxunpRVer. Mr. Pablo Brjdfipiaez. be mmii Thai tfacae ana
the pipKf T^rti & aesed. aavl bariar icMzad bir aaaae cm and liaic be aid ibat be
psx Vv lihjeT^, Benaz afiLeri if be had acud asnr cnber mwr daaa tbme Aiiaa biBi,
fie aid =K>. Beszitr'a^Dod if he a&Md 'daBBP p>pa' ^QBSarilT 4r bf fvoe. be aiiil
thas Mr. B«di>t cctoq^-Sed hiaa io a|n. 1^ tie aid. aad aner hamg mad to bin
bj hif iirjt'rpnrjBr Ia iffiTiaerJ and ntified aad agaedL
Ve f3Te iariL
Butsoo.
Mrxocm /war f», XSiGtf.
P^«!f<bc;. *^€: Iitdiiig. JLh i«s:i t« totcl. t2a^.<ai^ h» iatnprttas, Mr. Bdila
d T'.c:. r^zil'JL. Kickipcc Iii^iszu aiid lieizur firs duly cavora. tbetaapraaeBted br
Mr. B^riTirv T e?^ ib^inn.'-:.: r;iTi k£«d L^ ai^ aeJuid M tlMat wtn die ome be ataed. aad
he- aid "Jj^T '2rey -wrTr: iiMJi 'la pur 3ii£ hMzA im ihe peadi to make biEi
aakiai if Le Itbi •iri^ei i.z.7 c<:L»r pap^ h«fi(d«a thcae ibvsn him. he and ibat 1
an: *J:^€r :>ijy ^x-r* 1% Lhf sizz^rtd. Keor afjud ii he ajsMid TCnloaiiaffilf or wwb
pelkti *.:■ i: »: . itr eoai \z:ix \j: wkt OtAi^fA Ufdfjit t^T.^- Banley. vbo tcdd hiai
likkiT if i.*- iii li'.': i: ;* i.*- ir'.nJtd hrre ham aneaed. ibit be r"'^ — " ~^~ *~~ —
wehd VL- \:t it^yjzL liLe izaerpnaea he ;
be mti^i 'u: 'cx.^zjsJi hcra, at dad afao die 1
BKBXAsao Blasoa.
Paasio BoiHDGCix.
A. A. Fauns.
[Bahax.] JLF.Wj
2178 AFFAIB6 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
MuzQUiz, June 29 ^ 1906.
Present, the Indian, Gha ku sot, through the interpreters, Mr. Pablo RodriKuez and
the Indian, Tom Smith, and being first duly sworn, the lists presented by Mr. Bent-
ley were shown him and he was asked if these are the ones ne signed, and he said
that they appear to him to be the papers he signed. Beine asked if he had signed
anv others, ne said that he had not. Being asked if he signea voluntarily or was com-
pelled to do so, he said that Mr. Bentley forced him to do so, threatening to have
nim placed in prison for five years if he did not sign. This he said, and the same
being read to hmi by the interpreters he afi&rmed and ratified, not signing because
he stated he knows not how, as did also the Indian interpreter.
We give feiith.
Bernardo Blanco.
Pablo Rodriguez.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
MUZQUIZ, June 29, 1906.
It IB made known that at the head of the list presented by Mr. Bentley, and which
was translated by the interpreter, Mr. Pablo Kodnguez, the reading is as follows:
"list of the Kickapoos of Oklahoma, now in Mexico, the adults of whom elect to
transfer shortly then* holdings of lands which they have in Oklahoma to a common
fund with which to buy suitable lands in Mexico on which to reside, to own them in
common or the manner most satisfactory as may hereafter appear.'' The which is
made a part of this record as is requested by the accused.
We give faith.
Bernardo Blanco.
Pablo Rodriguez.
A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
MuzQUiz, June 29, 1906.
Having reviewed (seen) this accusation made against M. J. Bentley by the Kick-
apoo Indians, McJolmson, Homer Anderson, Ah tem y tuck, Cha ku sot, and others,
represented by Mr. J. A. Outcelt, as representative of the United States of America; that
the inquisition of the accused was had and he was made known of the charge against
him (me cause of his detention), and considering that the delicto (crime or wrong)
which is charged to him has not been proved, according to the proofs and declarations
which exist in this house; that in this conception the imprisonment of the accused
should not be ordered in the judgment of the undersigned judge, and for the same
reason the absolute liberty of the accused should be decreed, subject to what the
superior may decree to whom this proceeding will be accounted. For what has been
stated it is resolved:
First. M. J. Bentley is declared at liberty, subject to what the superior may decree.
Second. Notify and remit this cause to the court of letters in term for its action.
~ The second local judge, Bernardo Blanco, so ordered it and signed.
We give faith.
Bernardo Blanco.
A. A. Falcon.
A. F. Wals.
[Rubrics.]
MuzQUiz, June 29, 1906.
This day being present the detained M. J. Bentley, through his interpreter, Mr. Pablo
Rodriguez, was made known of the finding aforesaid, and alter understanding said that
he hears and he signs.
We give faith. Bernardo Blanco.
M. J. Bentley.
Pablo Rodriguez.
A. A. Falcon.
[Rubrics.] A. F. Wals.
Following, this 29th day of June, 1906, the aforesaid finding was made known to the
alcalde (detaining officer^ and the copies were made according to law, the alcalde not
signing because he stated he knew not how.
Wegivefadth. Bernardo Blanco.
A. A. Falcon.
[RufaricM A. F. Wals.
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAS KICKAFOO UDIAS& 2179
Tht dikh. <A ikm sacMr mfrnth^wm resoetred tiiif cutee si ihe rUh^ <d Mnzqidz at
12 nc^o«B. ja widrh ^Amjc wis beM tb«> cmirt by u4«giaphic •cvder £pc«i ms^enaa rEcarcd
WitlKK.
Tli« aCiKUk ^.i j!Q£iie. IJfCK. oc««iX3ili€id tbcr fizA OMirt U htusa <d Ikodoim at thk
i ^ M.i2z<qmz. J. A. OiiUic:it vac cunad v> app>ear ior dMr porpctte cl zasf^bfym^
ioMTpre^UT <A ^he dktmt. Mr, Xlkirsifj IjJbo. he wmt mzm'^i^Mied in genctaL and be
€XpneAy 2iiX>f^rrfjfa^i^ m Vj vheiLtAT thh d^xrumiemi^ vinkii are u> be iwuad ca patir<^
la and K «^ ih'i^r^rj!^. exkdhivhd br Mr. M- J. BetnU-j. bar*- anj' k^ fore* in ^
VmutdS^M:i^<AAmmfcaLfjs- imi^kr ajDjn^t<irol>li^aiMi.bcrre«]4i«d.afii^
t^Mn as^ Mfjf^ruthmig %h^ oosi^risu. tbat tb«T bav^e && lalike vbat»>eT«r or any kfsJ
foreie i£i Lif cfjoinr}'. h*Ai3^ a^^^eid if be d^sries U^taii tbev proo&i^ agaiiwt Mr, Bemhify
«- 'ai*e<iiH^ h*r cbW** arrv friiDfr. L-e t*ffAMii ibat L^ Lawi caua^id tbese pfcc«i&din^
to# be isifsaiiaTiHd ifA*4y v> ^/» Vy tib«r llnii^ Ssas« (p^jy^xiam^WL in vboee oojiMr be
cube, fi:^ iii«r B&id Mr. H^-mlhj m dHdetiiB^ tb^ LEkdiasn vbc^ readme in Umt jmiadkr'
tioB ^jj tbi* yinb^*:, ^x thfr puipotfife '.i <:a.T2£ua[f tb€33:i v^ i<e!l bim tb«ir prop^nks vbkb
db«T cmT) in OkJabcADA T-erriv:rT ^ a k/Y p?iDe. oc^viibsiaDdinir tbe bijd& val&e
wlutb ib*ft*e pr^.wrihhi bav^- 12 {bax fi4*cie, a£^ icr tbi* pnTpoeie be nr^w ads for a
ewtafirHd <r4/v -cs tb*r f*irx«rd <^ "ib^sie prf>-i***3ifflip i/> setad Uj« Li§ Gr/r^nunem for H*cb
actif.'SQ a^ ib*^- ii:aj- d-esajie iit tb<r premises. AiiiW wiiidsi ibis «iep <i tbe ppcoeieding
WK UTTr^^Tifc.T^t^d ^Ld l«eiui? read v> ^^ dfrciaram fyr bk miffrynur be amnnwed and
I ^T*r IfcilL.
At tbe jsatizm a t)(^. JoifaMi'^ k» de ktraf d%4 dkmu^ d^ MMwrfo^^a. CVjaJraila.
F- Vajx>ez Lijuco,
G. A. OcTCELT. AwGf- r. S, Att^,
AiMzxfo Lfjwj,
Tbie I« -j^f J uly ISiG^. tbe p«r«r>ii <rf tb^ oy^ort and tbe mnaynmer. Mr. AlbefV> L«»bo,
Bernrsi Tr.ir ^rsi-iw- :/.• i3:>e first kraJ rr/'in 'A ibe rillii^ o^ Murqiaiz Vy carnr <?at tb«
PiTiK - V^^vcll Mi^.k 2yhT±w.^ Vj »ee if be tjiear? saaHbs <4 bs-^-ia^ b6«esk aaa^iaiued af be
S&cr.^iid- Euari.i::/^ 'J:^ is^rufr i'Anisr.^ ^r^der <ASb a^ Vj wismx p^nrisstf -ainaesBed the
ibct <rf bi* ba'^'iri/ f.^?^2 a^Bit^iih^ ^xandnir^ ib^j-ie perr^tf ^bo jsmj be indicated by
bom..
Tbird- Ex.a:.-.:?Tie Mr. L- C. Gr§,r'jft§ askd tL*- '-nbw pessoQ refefr^ V> by J<iihnBrA in tb*
dedLsrs.ti':'::;; &ii ibft- £r??i pfcg^ '-f ibe ciifc^tac';:! "miiKi !:» szifvered.
Fc'^irLb, l*i*T:ie iJ] prr.T«3« 'iji-i i* i^^T^searr fr-'iit wba*.! deri'€rk>p§ ^.^^ </< ibe abore.
Fiftb- .1* i» jrii'-r'^d by Mr. B^^iJ^y. raifje birt c^niijed o^nei, at bk ooet, ^rf tb<e
dedbaa^ar,-!:!* i::::j».d*r t v tise Ii^iiiii* |:ir^»^-!:::ie*i v^ ibt <i,vjn msA IA bk -f/ra dedbaatfon.
■mlrfTtg il*ry r-'.T.'ie* '.€ ?r:L'.i ^Ai^iz jAhTiA ^A ibe r«e<XTd a$ be natr reqia«ft.
Al l& p?-:'p*-' t ::::;*: re^ "utj iLi* re<xrd y.r frucb fanber d<e»r.Teie a» nstuT be ssi&r«HaMy-
I>W7*«e*d 4t:jd fu2T^^ v.- Tb*- Ir^-ii jz'lz^ 'A k*u<w» <€ ibe d«rir-t.
Vau^ez L&ji^yo.
Tbk i* ^ ':-'.-j/y -^t^r:- rr. ::ii *jjft- --.'nziiciJ Tbkb i» in ibk -oiffioE* ^ ccwnt .
Eafajei. Euzosn^.
Tie Ftrrt Xxi«i/ Ad^
Fkaxcuco AismxK,
A. Faicox.
2180 AS9MWS OF laS MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDIANS.
ExHiBir No. 115 [Qoode].
Eaole Pass, Tex., June t5, 1006.
Stjlte of Texas, Maverick County , ss:
Pereonally appeared before me, the undeitdgned authority, Russell Johnson, of
Liwful age, who, oeing first duly sworn according to law, deposes and states: That he
isalegalreeidentof Pottawatomie Ck>unty,Okla.; that during the month of May, 1906,
affiant went from his said home in Ouahoma to Eagle Pass, Tex., and to Muzouiz,
Coahula, Mexico, for the purpose of buying land from the Mexican Kickapoo Indians
residing in Mexico, but whose allotments were in Oklahoma.
Affiant further states that on or about the 11th day of June, 1906, he (affiant) and
D. M. Beatty called at the office of the American consul at Ciudad Porfirio i)iaz,
€oahula, Mexico, to consult with said consul relative to the taking of acknowledg-
ments to deeds from the Indians aforesaid for their (the Indians) lands in Oklahoma;
that affiant found that the consul, Mr. Martin, was absent from his office and that the
vice-consul, Mr. J. A. Bonnett, was in charge of the consul's office; that affiant and
the aforesaid D. M. Beatty stated their business to the said Mr. Bonnett, advising
him (Mr. Bonnett) that they (affiants) understood that he (Mr. Bonnett) had made
arrangements to go to the place where said Indians reside, it being near the town of
Muzquiz, Coahula, Mexico (about 12 miles distant), for the purpose of taking acknowl-
edgments to the Indian deeds; that Mr. Bonnett, aforesaia, replied in substance that
he (Mr. Bonnett) had promised M. J. Bentley that he (Mr. Bonnett) would go to
Muzquiz for the purpose aforesaid and that the said Mr. Bentley was to pay all of his
expenses (Mi, Bennett's expenses) of said trip to Muzquiz.
Affiant further states that he and the aforesaid D. M. Beatty further asked the said
Mr. Bonnett if he (Mr. Bonnett) would give them a square deal in the takinz of said
acknowledgments at Muzquiz, meaning to ask if Mr. Bonnett would give them the
same show as M. J. Bentley; that Mr. Bonnett replied in effect that the only man he
(Mr. Bonnett) knew at Muzquiz was Mr. Bentley; that he (Mr. Bonnett) did not know
the Indians and did not know affiant or the aforesaid D. M. Beatty, and implied that,
while he would take acknowledgments for any person, he would have to depend upon
Mr. Bentley to identify the Indians.
Affiant further states that the said Mr. Bonnett produced a copy of a letter from the
files of his (Mr. Bennett's) office which was purported to have been written by the said
Mr. Bonnett to the said Mr. Bentley a few days previous; that the said Mr. Bonnett
read extracts from said letter to affiant and the aforesaid D. M. Beattv, which extracts
showed in substance that the said Mr. Bonnett had advised the said Mr. Bentley that
he (Mr. Bonnett) could not go to Muzquiz, as previously arranffed, for the reason that
the consul was absent from the office, and suggested that Mr. Bentley make arrange-
ments with a Mr. M. Q. Marsh, consular agent at Sierre Mojado, Mexico, to go to Muz-
quiz for the purpose aforesaid.
Affiant further states that either the extracts from said letter showed, or else that
Mr. Bonnett advised him (affiant), that he (Mr. Bonnett) had also written the afore-
said Mr. Marsh relative to his (Marsh) going to Muzquiz for the purpose aforesaid.
Afiant further states that the statements and actions of Mr. Bonnett indicated that
he (Mr. Bonnett) was friendly to Mr. Bentley in the matter of getting deeds from the
Indians.
Russell Johnson.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 23d day of June, 1906.
[Seal.] A. H. Schmidt,
Notary Public.
My conmiLBsion expires June 1, 1907.
Exhibit No. 115i.
In the Indian camp, on the San Francisco plantation, on the 7th day of Juno, 1906,
before the subscribed witnesses, appeared on the one part Messrs. ,
, originally of , and neighbors of , United States of
America, and on the otner part the North American Indians
-, originally of Oklahoma, United States of America, and neighlK)r8 of the alK)ve-
mentioned Indian camp, and said to have concerted a contract to sell certain lands;
and for the purpose of making this instrument public within the term of six months,
commencing to count from this date, stipulate the following:
AYFADB OF THE HEXJCAJf KiCKAFOO IXHAB& 2181
na. Uoitcd Soocf oi Amoica.
SfCKiod Tint ac pnaiMaa flefl kocb aDSo •
TUrL That aid MBMiiaBg free ipoptafl Idnib <rf royMibflity aod j
Foanii- Tlis.t ib& onoe <rf iaid kod k f in liK^r «r gold <
^■ffiiicaa-paad <.ci i& ad. Uekx^ €x ia iiiiiinIliiHi
Fift^ yiaa uim miaous dbafl be depcaited ia iIk aoiarir public's cAae w^^ert Um^
eoBliaci i^ v> be z&mLet tio* kfaiizc' tbif adie.
SocdL Tbus lit %h^ €T'«bi{ «ctf "^^^^^y tbis aiioour a pnMjr inftmnMiii it ams cigiitai£i
pR<K«de9K^ <^ liite hotdi ju ^aouttfikucu if ioKivii. and isB limit;: tike dedaiaticn t£tat
tkic pricie <i^<aiijed i§ josi: astd zh^ traiwrninal <tf ppopcviTaa&d aA iaDprr/r<«3Ma3t?. oeei,
aad affiT a&d 'enr-«Tiii]£kz liot ndulr crjcpisfpcsdff: tbe Mi^MOosk oi ^erictiao: Mni^
fi«r«3ik. Tbta dedbre liiy accept baaf <rf iopqsoiiig oootiact; dbtai
afl fUTDieif <»gx9^T>^ bsix! iLfesaii^T^ . tibteirppeeieBit aaad iatore ^mb. %o eoaaptj witb
tkic abvre oocitiauci.
L CacDoesD O.ciar.f'. L^rei^ ^^ettifr iLat I ^>^ak mzA read veil and oooibcdj bc<b tl^
Spa&M^ a2>d Eirrli^gj 1».Tyg7W»g. azid i^ joyre aod Icvqpotaf if a cRvmeC ijufiiig^^.
and troe tsxodata^.^ -od tbe attacbcd mftntmoit wnnea ia Spnu^
Cjtaaas Cosivcl,
Exhibit No. !3<: fGwjdrel
Eacle P^as. Tkx.. /ui.r 4. t9!».
ItKAS Gi>c^£0£: Hjlt^ iic4 reiC)&fT<:d az<T foni^er isattmctkaif t^ from IXefaotoKvat.
BkbeiII J-ciiizifn^Qei <iSd zr.ja fteod t^.^st HKsaeafe v> 3ir. Soc^sbfcvn ijiitil Im* reacbcd here
and t:QnM^ ii 'jt*s Vj ute v. $»es>d! I vy.'k xti^ libertj <^ ^/JAj^^ ^ lin&er v> it in order to
kBT« Scxnikcni l^^«er ^zxksfoazed mai<ir.<ess b«ff«& asd vilb zij reoGBBmendnioDf to
lat^airjr I>e|Mn2i»^rL-. TL*- i2*e«Bfcre I i«Lii read a$ iUk*w»:
Oiisii* "«'-■ i^ive "he^e^ f^^^i i**ir»- !:'t O^jTf^rr.iTj^Zi'L E5**?i M ^xScan attcnKy* nrpe that
w^t i-irii: Mrxfir. ■'Ir.v -ffiii fciaJj deksMicm c€ Ixrdiaitf asid lay -mt^Ait mMOer hekx^
DvLt T^j-^^zzL^ ijji.'. Ir ij-ipK-iLT ji o'.ffinTT. i^ffkg: Vj» r^^ 1^ ItuMfoix inuEi^diiiAifjT aad
tak.-fr vp- Vii.lc 11:4.;*.^ -LL-c^yr Mf-iicazi la**'*- Tiiwrk«rT iaff cjade «»^^^»' reqiMst u»
laa^Ti-.r ]>fptnzi:^^'L TLi* -w'.rJd r^>e^ -p sjKCtet* lev ppwiwuracjo in tktt Uaited
fitatri^.
Ottoclt- .tjaUtaiur Atkmt^.
fjii *^^^Zx::xy in:rr.:Tig I hfci & <:''.«i:T-e?^s,:ii«n li «Tr«ni bonis aiib ^^tfti «iii*»^
atacn»*7* f.r il-* T»ir: :: li-.rLh^r:! M*^cr.. H*- iwoew^ lias oiir OQarrcnatKai be
anicuT c^-ciid^^iJil: *'-i ir.ez filjy urtd^gsia.TifiiTig Ti^ie stoaaion az Ifmiqiaiz be
aMdor.i •uVrriui-I-.Ti^v 2i".\nj*fr. tn;i v.. k-e^ej:* irtic*]-*: 3idia:i««"-«i*ct2y 5i& ^madTiei and
^ip <rr; & f-'T ivr. *av :•: n*:**^. r^l2i.\Ce IxiiiiZi* Trii-:. baT*- btieaa refcdiiai^ as Mazqoiz
far »cci»*r iJiL-e iiji ^ij:*r lif^^n. : — r,-Hi]jtr>^!T -i.:- nr^ ]>.»j, ii^kizi^ hiaa w amd a ocazoaia-
fk)!& 1'.' 'iiJLr r_-I '.-.L-^,'! 5'.r Mrx^i-'jiLL '>.-rfnji/e::n c€ "■ittfi- Kk-ka{Xi& atoatkn at
M.'n»q--i2 71- i^tr. :*: trr^^.m^y i* -r-ry f:.!*- TJ:it,"T I>iax "ril j»«ii3y r«i|KiBrd lo Hub
>•: -.^T5<-.- '.--I 7'-- iJLi I *L -.'--! i kii'.ir :: :Vv* j-laz; kr ibepreanai- In ibe BMan-
liiLHr f -.» - *b'.»-i: 1 r^r- i.i -.hrv ; : :L*- iL-iinn* ^j- b*f^ i/.- Eagk* ft» j^ poasibkr br -a^ort-
inp '»^*.i. 'iJii'.rr*^ '.vl^T vi.:- :-ll:Tr* t- M'jj&Q':::!!
«agp«-:-^v: :Li.-. Tl-y lii- -.1-v -n.^!. l' ^jLhlziht a-TLfT cci tbe qi2*«_ Hat <»? zaaa flbooid
i* -ij-r-- :.- r^r": '.'l^-zz. : z. -Ir -ri..:. l- : ■'.'i.'r :rT itf?*- hzA iia.1 lb*- -cnlMsi daioald rtiztain at
M-Tir»^-_ --^ .-zii TSJi-. '. : vl- ;.-- nj.- -t A-I i^.'if«er -dei'i ail] be paid an MTajqiaix- bd h ss
ti^ - ^-. r^ - Li -. - -. i - 11 : r . >: •^-•. v . :i -.-^-ir. ^^^.ed ♦ .t -.ijf tiCGrmaiaatcm bekre iber are paid.
Be vrT^.- tij-: _1 V Li", y * _ -V. : -.i.zii: :iis- i ^-.i-..^ dei*cMk© Vj^ iak<& v.^ ll^exki^ City
ayjsli '-•^ ?iA _:•- i-i •-•• "ii^ "Jtr. -rrj; ir-.^> u* n* frcca Lx^^iazi castp . Ab xm- dbe ncniMr.
Waiiie M-^ j.'-'i: :_. v l^r- '."bil kc wr,. aad *iu«er AL Ken t iib<4 cr Ab kk kaA.
W*r TTv J 1 iLi.-. - : ii£- -.:!-'? Mi-.i: 7-A::i*n/-«j ^x TVjt- Alkid as ii23i^Tpr%tcr — preioablj
lie li.:.i.rr- .L- ---i:^i 'i*^.' r^. .: j^ A ^inurjji-^iJar iiLprynanttr ibaa a* -oiife kzfegv « ibift tm
aati] cn:j i:l^«t: . z. j- i.'.-?:-" pliiibetd. iiV :' v^mW jasi fs-s*- tbeia a cba2M!ie to better farti^
thtni«-jT*is^
2182 APPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Exhibit No. 117 [Goode].
Department of Justice,
Washington, April gO, 1906.
John W. Scothorn, Esq.,
United States Attorney, Guthrie, Okla,
Sir: I send you herewith additional papers in the matter of Martin J. Bentle^,
which, in my communication of the 12th instant, you were instructed to have investi-
gated. These papers consisted of Mr. Bentley's statement before the Senate Com-
mittee on Indian Affairs and a letter from Francisco Valdez.
I have received your telegram stating that Assistant Attorney Outcolt has been
assi^ed to investigate this matter. Please keep me informed as to the progress of
the investigation.
Respectfully, M. D. Purdy,
Acting Attorney-General.
MuzQuiz, March 28, 2906.
President Roosevelt, Washington.
Dear Sir: I desire to call your attention to one Martin Bentley, who says he is the
lawyer and the a^ent for the Kickapoo Indians who live upon the land of the San
Francisco plantation of this municipality, and who has done a bad part by these poor
people ana dreadfully deceived them.
He bought for them six days of water with its cultivable land on this same planta-
tion, and then deceived them, stating that while the cultivable land was small,
nevertheless the entire summer pasture (el agustaderoj would be theirs. The summer
Mature of this plantation comprises an area of ground that belongs to five associates.
Besides this, he further deceived them. The document for this right of six days of
water which he bought was made out to him and not to the Indians. His insincerity
is at once apparent, for if the money was of the Indians, why does he not turn the
document over to tnem. I address myself to you, Mr. Presiclent, because I am the
friend of some of these Indians, and I am distressed that they should be deceived, and
I trust that with your great influence their attorney may be changed, so that they
may be better treated.
Very respectfully, .
Exhibit No. 118 [Goodo],
Department ok the Interior,
Indian School Service,
Washington, DC., October 11, 1905.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
Washington, D. C.
Sir: In compliance with instructions containcnl in oflice lettcT of June 14, 1905, rela-
tive to purported sales and probable fraudulent conveyances by certain members of the
Kickapoo tribe in Mexico oi allotted lands in Oklahoma, directing nie to go to the City
of Mexico, confer with the representative of the United States there, and through him
obtain the necessary commission to visit the Mexican KickapcK) Indians in Mexico,
and also to invoke such assistance as the Mexican Government could afford to give, etc.,
I have the honor herewith respectfully to submit my re^M)rt.
In the above-mentioned letter of instructions, page 1, is the following:
**In a letter dated April 6, 1905, Mr. Frank A. Tharkery, superintendent of the
Shawnee Indian School, called the attention of this office to a clause in the Indian
appropriation act for the y(^r ending June .30, 1906 (Public — No. 212), authorizing and
durectmg the Secretary of the Interior to issue patents in fee to O kc mah and his wife,
Thithequah; Wah nah ke tha hah, No ten, Tan pah thea, Shuck e quah, and Ne con o
pit, members of the Kickapoo tribe heretofore allotted land in the Territory of Okla-
noma, for lands so allotted to them, and the restrictions as to sale, incumbrance, or
taxation were removed by said act."
Asain, on pa^e 4 of said letter, the following instructions appear:
"It is the aesire of the office to have you obtain all the information possible concern-
ing the Kickapoos now in Mexico, their general condition, their exact location, their
occupation, their future prospects, their standing before the laws of that nation, and
the number of these Indians, and you will also determine whether they arc acceptable
additions to the population of Mexico. In addition to this you will be expected to
obtain specific information in regard to the deeds herein mentioned. Mr. Horace
AFFAIB8 OF THE UBUCAS KICKAPOO DCSCAHB. 2188
Spmt United States dktzkt attcnef for OUaliana, has dna daj been raqfoaled to
wiite jnoo. care of the Aippriran i mhawji , gnrmg yoa as gfiedlic iiifcamliii aa poa-
able crmct?rmDg the tcstiiiioaT and eridenoe that wiH be mttmu} to enable him to
inacitate prrjceedm^ to set aode theae comnerancca, the form in which it ihoiild be
pftyafiErd. And anj odier eog^cstioiis which, in his judgment, may be tlwwght adtvable
or Lelp^oi in the matt^. Yon win please ctxmder his instJuctioDa aa ol aa great
imxKnaoc^^ as ih/»Er from thi§ office and endeavor to carrv them oat stzictij."
1 h€rewich inck€e the letter ol Hrjci. Horace Speed iincfagpre Xo. 1;^ dated June 2i^
1S05. acd will state that ae far ae prjsable it has been my endca:inor to follow out these
inacnictir>Qs to the letter-
In my letter? to yr^ir office of July 3^ 7. 17. 22. 25, August 7, 15, and IS. I endea^irir to
repTjTt proere^. bat ass a regnme. will Aate that leaTinc Albuquerque^ X. Hex., June
23, the City o€ Mexiro ir» r^ach<ed June 27. On the Kflowinr dxy a conference waa
held with ocir American ambMsador. H#]«i. E. H. Conger, who had been fully adriaed
thpQti^ the State DeparODetit of my rim, aa well as the nature of the inrcatigation
with which I was cLarzed.
Mr. Co<Dser at once fcrirmolated a letter to the Hon. Ignacio Jfariacal, mimwirr of ior-
C9gn relatioiks in Mexico, r^^atire to my work, and requested such aid on the part of
tl^ Mexican Government az&d iis officiaJj as could be properly inT^;>ked. After aerecal
persofial confereiKes betweeri the official* of the Amencan emhasBy and the depart^
BMCt ior ioreizn anaiis. the ambaoador was advised by letter that formal instruction
had been isued hy the governor of Coahuila relative to my work, and at the same time I
was f^irnisbed, throozh the ambaasador. with a private letter of introduction tinckeure
Xo. 2 from the miniver oc foreign afbon, to the Hon. Miguel Cardenas, gtiweiuor of the
Sttte Of Ccohriila.
On the day that 1 received this letter laa above named I left Mexico City ior Sal-
tHkr. die capir^ of the Sr.ate of Coahuila, accompanied by Mr. Arthtir C. Wheatley, of
Mexico Cirr. as Span;^ in:erpret<^. Mr. Coccer inasted that it would be ahsolittely
neceaearr u> Lave a Spankh interpreter, and >fr. Wheatley was employed.
With Gorerar^r Cardenas 1 haa two interviews, b^th by appointment, one on the
17th and one on the l^zh of July, at each of whidi the facts relatiTe to the Mexican
K]cka{MO Iitdiaos fr:m hi* view point waa tlMroughly discuasDi. The pjvetnor said
in scbgtance Lickecre No. Z :
"HL&t tho«e Indi^j:!;* wb^> had been in Mexico for a long while were re^rded as 3leX'
ican ciiizen:*, be: thoee wiM> had oxne more recently W€«e regarded as of the United
Stales: tLit zhe Mexican authorities viewed the wii^>le of xhi^ Indian coloniea with
Boch diaavoT. as 'iieir settlements, if foch they could be called, were a n^nace to the
peM>^ of :he Stane : that the Inrijary had iKver settled to work, but had roamed the
lurthem i^-.rdrm of :he Scase at larfe. shooting game. etc. : in the earlier days this had
floall enect. bet iK-sr riiere wa* an endeavc-r to' keep them on their own grotnvis, but
this was fh&xdi, ^ prr-prietcr* of lands woold give the Inrjtanft permisaon to htzni
^une xnd they wouli wander on : that the land* ^po^ which the Indianw had be^ak origi-
naOy seeded reierrin^ to the Xacimiento. a federal reservatiirm — under the control
of the f^eral aethc-ritie*- ab*>ct 2 miles from Muzqmz. in a armshweei direction;^ were
some of the best azric-ilnxral land* in the State, being in the valley with a large river
and contTjUinz the 9>^I^r^es of water, so that irrigation was eaaly arranged; other groond
was furiahle ^:r *^<:<k raifin^: to neither of these avocatifl«ks wcmld the Iwlianff dedicate
thcnkseiv^. h-rii wctiii only himt game: as a whrAe these Indians were vicious in thdr
habits. dr::Lk^TL. ini :r:^bl^acnie; and tiiat the Sute would moet gladly be rM of
thetn. as 'hey -"--rre ztj ben^£r. — on the contrary, a detriment.
" Lash y^^ 'Jier% is^s a fr<^^ arrival of Indians from Oklahoma, and they were so
hcavilT ^^-zz^fA 2.r.i snch a n^iisanoe that the federal authorities were adted to aid
tiM& Si^Zrr in cisamiizjz theci. This was started, but on further oonoderation it waa
aeea tJLAZ zLi* rr.izrr. brin^ on seric-^is trouble, so it was decided to do this little by little.
The newer \rri'*^ are h^ariiy armed, have money, and at times practically take the
town of VULi Mizoiiz — ee<: dnnk and are very troublesDme.-
"He sail he pr:p»/«=ei Vj Like op with the federal authorities the matter of getting
those of "iie Initios Trh:- zz^y be .Vmerican citizens removed by arrangements wiiE
the Uni'e*! ^'^Z'^. On :he wh:le. he said he woold be moet pleased to nake a present
to the Uni:<^i .S'-i*.e« •:: the wt^-Ae kt. not only of the United States but also as wefl
those tha* ire ''.''. nfii-rre^i Mexkran oiiixens.'
Govenjor •'.Arier-is f-imished me with letien rA introduction to the jtiea de letras
iTHon. Lio. Frin i=<". \'ilirfz Uano at Mondova. and also to Dcroty L. Alberto
Guzf^rd^,. pr^i-r:::- :: the mnnicipalitv of Villa Muzquiz *»?«• incftosnres Xos. 4. 5,
At MoQckrak rr: i^vs were spent in exanuning the records of lands and titles and
in conferring wi:h incize Uano as v> details relating to onr further wtxk laee f
2184 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KfCKAPOO INDIANS.
No. 8). At his suggeetion a form of petition was drawn up, such as would be required
to come before him for authority to take depositions or testimony, and after making
some minor changes therein he approved the form.
Mr. Wheatley and self arrived at Muzquiz on Saturday, Julj 22, at about 11 a. m.
Mr. M. J. Bentley came in on the same train, with three white men and an Indian
woman . Fmm his statements it appears that he was on his -w&y to Washington , but when
he reached St. Louis some one in Washington telegraphed him as to my whereabouts
and he started at once for Muzquiz. Of this matter, see my letter to the OflSce of
July 22. As soon as I arrived at Muzquiz I went at once to the office of the presi-
dente and deputy (L. Alberto Guajardo) t^) confer with him upon matters relating
to the investigation. He had been duly advised of our coming and the object and
§uri>06e of my commission and entered heartily and enthusiastically into every
etail looking to its successful accomplishment.
From the statement of Presidente Guajardo, it appears that almost immediately
after the arrival of Mr. Bentley he had been actively engaged in inciting trouble among
the Indians, who appeared to be very much excited, and he had found it necessary
to order Mr. Bentley s detention at police headquarters. The story that Mr. Bentley
was circulating, as given to the presidente and myself, was that he had just received
a telegram from Shawnee sayine that I was there to compel by force, if necessary, the
return of all the Kickapoos to the United States. The mtention of Mr. Bentley was,
as I fully b'elieve, to induce the Indians to scatter to the mountains, so that our efforts
to obtain testimony would be fruitless. This plan and purpose would have succeeded
had not the presidente sent word by his captam of police that certain Indians, naming
them, were not to leave their camp without his permission. In this connection it may
be stated that the Indians have a very wholesome respect for Mexican authority, and
particularly for Presidente Guajardo, who is known to be fair, impartial, ana very
strict. His word is law with the Kickapoos, and notwithstanding Bentley, they dare
not disobey him.
Prom the further statements of Mr. Guajardo, it appears that he is thoroughly
acauainted with Mr. Bentley and knows him, as he stated to Mr. Wheatley and myself,
to De a schemer and a scoundrel. While, for good reasons, he did not wish to be
involved in this investigation, he made a statement as to Bentley 's venality and gave
me permission to refer to him as a voucher for its truth. He stated that last year Mr.
Bentlev, accompanied by a lawyer named Elizondo, came to his residence about li
miles from the city and there offered him quite a considerable sum of money as a
bribe if he would make a report favorable to the settlement of the Kickapoo Indians
on the federal colony at Nacimiento. After the proposition was submitted, the
presidente ordered these two men from his house and told them any further business
they might have with him must be discussed before witnesses at the presidencia.
(See Mr. Wheatley 's statement, inclosure No. 9). The presidente also said that Mr.
Koman Galan, with whom Bentley is associated, is a man without reputation or
honor; that before his association with Bentley he was considered and known to be
a poor man, having a small store, whose stock of goods, all told, would not amount
to more than $200, American money, but that since his connection with Mr. Bentley
he has bought his horses and carriage, is able to travel around the country at con-
siderable expense, and claims that the Indians owe him several thousand aollars in
Mexican currency. It may be proper to state that only recently Mr. Galan was
arrested, imprisoned, and fined $50 in Mexican money for fumbhing liquor to Indians
wiUiout license.
Subsequent to Mr. Bentley 's detention, the presidente infonnod me that for ^ood
and sufficient reasons he haa placed him in 'incommunicado," where he remained
until July 28, 1905, when, through the personal efforts and, as I fully believe, to serve
the personal ends of the United States vice-consul at Ciudad Porlirio Diaz (Mr. Bonnet),
he was released. (In a letter to Ambassador Conger of July 30 last I brought this
matter to his attention. See copy of letter to Mr. Conger and his reply thereto marked
"inclosure 10.'*)
Upon the afternoon of arrival at Muzquiz the presidente (Mr. Guajardo) arranged
for a conference with some of the leading Indians to take place at his residence, ab^ut
1 mile distant from the villa. At this conference. Wah pe che quah, one of the Indians,
asked us if it was true, as Mr. Bentlev had roixirted. that we (referring to Mr. Wheatley
and self) were there to forre the Incfians to go hack to the United States.
On the day following, Sunday, Mr. Guajardo ac(X)mpanied us to the Indian c^amp,
about 7 miles distant from Muzquiz, where the statements of certain Indians were
taken relative to the disposition of their allotments in Oklahoma. (See inclosure 12.)
Before these statements were made, the pret«idonle, both at his residence and at the
Indian camp, fully explained to the Indians that the Mexican and Unitcxi States
Governments were working together; that my work was carried on under the super-
vision of the Mexican Government, and that they would be expected to tell the truth.
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICUT KICKAPOO I3rDlJLS& 2185
By reieiTiDg to ihar statements herewith ( inckrare 12> when OMDpared to tbeir
■lat€sce&S5 under OAih > iiKkeiire 19 , it will be seen tint in man^ inetaoiccs there is
aoite a diacT^pancy. I am not sore nitetlier this waa oviiiff to laolty interpretation
f jfr. Jocia did n^A arrive ontil July 29. 1SC6>. or wbetbrS' ot&r inf uencas accoimt'^
for tike sun^.
In mrVje^sr<T I i win b*: kmiid n^Aes by Mr. IMi^atlev ai Eo land r*r*:rjnia, etc.
FcsfiL^ p^izi^jjss in each ca^e were filed with the Joex de Letra^. at Monclo'^na. a^
lolkyv?: July '2Z. V^J^. i^x risAU^.Q of the Indiar.*; Jtdy 36, 1506. i^^ cirAtion ol 3lr. M. J.
Bentley: Aigri*^ 1:5. IC<>i>. ior dsacti^/n o€ Mr. Hi^ii^fftQ Galan.
EapeiriAi ar..:(^nr.ion i* called i«^> the k.re^xo^ petiti^^tj*. tr4?iHLher widi the ictierrrj^
tones and aik*wer« %o iLe sfcme fcor the In«iiaikf. These paper? were fiir5t submitted in
Spanish, arid anerward* tra&^lated by Mr. .^nLsir C. \^lieatley. the qiscstioiifi and
aoffwef? fj-eio^^ hi* inr;eTprerad/>G. See inckeores Xos,- 13, H, 15, H. 17, 1&, 19. 2D,
2L22-
Aj yoiir o^Tfr win oteieTve. the manBer o^ Lakin^ aH leskimrmj before the Mexican
ermru as Mrizfiriiz wa.* !^<y d-'^jeinaotts, and we wer^ cn>fifined ftnctly to the qne^ioiie.
In soGie re$pe<.t j :hi^ w^ very onK^nanase. a« nkuiy qa<^st:ir>Qfi «rij§Zf^ted thesoiielTcs as
the inqiiry p?T.^2r«:$iiiei:. h 'it all aiLfwers a^ made were ntade to the qoestkiCiiS included
IB the ffe^'kw.Zii*. r. will be ccoteti aI«o that many of the qn€stir>Ci3 remain anaci«wefcd
br the l&iiaii:*- la many rases the Icdsaos* iiJled to aiMwer either frooi lack of kntDwl-
edse. which wig zetkerally iLe case, or feom indajprjeitjon- The jtiixe did not feel like
ioKtu^z th-etn «0T rr^mpelliiiz them to acysFw^-. as it was deetned fc^st by ev*^ uynAns and
by kir>iri«:^ffi *.o z^ aj the nrsth rela:rve to she sale of the said feven aOtotnuents. A
canijil re'*iew -li -he t.et*tiirir/^y will *how that ail mater^ iictj have been di^doeed.
FiKMn the evi ienfie of the Ir>iiar:^ I jiiri^e that amoii:^ «>Eie of the older ocms there was
an mLdedned inrest and desire to retnra lo Mexico: that thii was made to take a
dc^ite f'-.nn by ei*>r*f',r pr'^ra-Tire. which broo^ht ah«oat their refZK>val to Mexko.
This pfT^senre wai hrvr^zht abo^t by Martin J. Bectiey. wii<& expected to utilize the
■novenkerit t.j c-ontr^A "iheir Iir>i» in OklahoEsa. He fscceeded in ^ettinj? control o^
these Indiana and nheir Lin-i* ev&iectly onder promsse to «ectire i'.r them a iettlenk»kt
inMexi!^.r> — ir. rlr^t ^r. Nirimieii^j o^l^ny. afterwari* eL»ewhere-
The eviien»'e L* ver>' r k-ar that ever>- one examin*^ was eoiier the impresEioQ that
there wae lin<i h- cr ?he W'>'il-i receive in Mexirrj-. aa»i that when. *i^iri^ away their
Oklahoma pr-.j^rrty thev fceiieved th^;*- were r^izz^izjz papers rei^tin^ to an exij^an^,
and Dof. to a aife •'. f •.heir lacd : Ejone knew of the -^octenti of the d'-jCTnaeEiti they siened,
nor their ene^ • : n'-.n.e knew the cr>&»iderat5on metLti»7aed in their 'ieed*. bm afi believed
that 'h-y -w-.-^li r^^-^-i-i- l^i^i in Meii^'r. ^tuJ t*> that in, Oklahocoa. They all knew
that thry '^jI i nc*. <':L-vC€e .:: 'J:.^ir aK-'.'tiutefits in Oklahcma, a&i. with one exception,
none knew ;hr". « ^ r^-?^-;re wi^ ib.nt tr/ reck^ve. or had reini^v^ed. the restriction in
re^ari v. *.'ne TS^Ie ■.: :?.-:r ill .".men"--. rir:Iner:::i.-.re. n*one knew what their ailotment
wae wonh. v/:-h -vne '^i':'ep:>",-n. it app^^ir? fr.m the testimoiiy o€ th<«^se In»iiaiia that
Mr. Ben'iey n-i^iier -rXcLiinni t'> them th'^ vil^ie of land in Oklahoma wjr gave thesn
any idea w'r.ar.ev-r as :o wLit th-'-ir owii. lan^i* were worth. It i* admitted by actme
fljf the IndLin.* ^hj,t •.h--y r*^^ -iTWrti sni-kll pti^»-Tnen"^ at the timje the;*" signed papers in
EaeJe Pare rel^'in^ Vj -.n^i.- L*n.i. i:/^: n^one of them appeare>i to think t£at this money
vae recei v-^i i.^. pa^-Tnen: . •'. r p-^n pa^-m-n:. or on accormt ^ f the land.
It is '"lear ".i:_i" ".n-:Lr -irti-lre *..v z-t awiy fr-.m 0£iar,4>mA. their Eznoraoce of boaneai,
and of th^ vil.-^ •-,: ".:.-:r '•'^r-rv in OicLih->zia. an-i of the real crjnditiotM in Mexico,
were mamlv -^-.I.!^-^-: :.-. -i^-t. ►-r-rt^ '.hem '-.: ".heLT allot^entj; that the person who took
advantage •.: ■:.-.i-»^ ■■■.:Ar: .zj^ -wj^ Mr, F^ntley. in wL'-.m they seem to iiave a blittl
c««iSien--.e. :nj.-: -^p :.. :.!:,--• '..n:.': '':.--/ h.ive n*-.t re<:'^:vfd any oonsiieration whatever
fcr their lan.i. nei-.n-'-r :n zzj. n-;. . lin-L*, or -^.ois. an.i they do crvt ka>w what they are
li>get. 0!:ivi :^ -.: m -n-i-n-.:-^ i..ei:e:: Lin-i.
As the --^T-i- -:--^ •,.. ■.n- :-^-,> ■b"'--t-: '-.' -j.:ne*i '.y mifrep-r^entatioiiss and c^>oe knew
theoon*en*.r : ':.-■: :--•-- in i. n. •-.r^-; '.-T-'r.vj . ' -^ been ^'*f:n th*ese aii'.-tteea. I con-
»ier -.h-^-n i.- , -.i.-.-i: • ;, f'i'.i: h-^rn-.e •\z n- vilne. I w-.aiti also ftate that each
witn^';** : -II V -^r. :-.--- .« . : ::, - \ >-r.:., r^- whi,- h were p^^it to them and completely under-
stood :,-j: T- I'.y in : . :.. ."..- : -.:. - -'ju.-.emen:. a* he made it acd the way it was written
down. A.^ -.:.- -j^::..:..' r T. -r .n ■^^. h raie r^i*i the reply of the witneae, which was
tracdlar./r^ : :., „.n. : n ; :. *. ^L-ne *jv tne tw> o!S.oiaI interpreter?, bat by a >panidi-
Kickac»-.o m^-r::--. .* -.;..i: -:.-y -he in^iian.* br-.iizht with them^ one who oxwierstocjd
both ;le il. »^y.* '.::-.z. -.^^ j-zA :he Spanish lan^oai^e.
Althxv^h ji ne :^.:n„::^i *^ n.e p-iynnent at the tinbe of s^natcire. there was not o««
who a.in^-.'.e^. :n-r y^y::.^z.\ 2.* r.eln^ ':n a^rr.ririi of their land. They -iiew it aiK a
pseaent -r ii::, in i ^: -.n irr-tani ".ne«e pA^-mentJ.
Takina^ ::p -.ne in li.n :^ f'^^¥f*, 1: appear? that according to the deeds, of which I
hare obtaineii 'cenine^i oopiea see incksires Nos. 23, 24. 25, 26, 27. 2&, 29, 30, 31, 32)
27^1,V- .S. Dor. 21,>. «!Ul— T#rf 3 20
2186 APPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
(under the advice and instruction of Horace Speed, United States attorney), that first
upon the material points. Okemah states:
"That nothing was tola him of the value of the lands in Oklahoma at the time of the
sale; nor when he signed the deeds did they explain how much they were paying him
for his lands; that bentley did not tell him anything regarding the value or price he
(Bentley) had to pay him; that he received from Mr. Bentley 200 gold and 200 Mexican
silver; that the pajmaent for his allotment was to be by exchange for land in Mexico*
that he has not received the land, nor does he know where it may be; that the 200 gola
and the 200 silver he understands he received on account of his allotment in Oklahoma.
(The consideration named in Okemah's deed is |8,000.)
" Thithequah, his wife, states: That no one told her anything of the value of the land
in Oklahoma, nor when the documents were signed in Eacle Pass; her husband told her
that her land was exchanged for other land in Mexico; that her husband arranged the
matter and nothing was explained to her; she says that she received nothing; her hus-
band received from Mr. Bentley $150 Mexican. (The consideration named in Thith-
equah's deed is $5,000. )
''Wahnahketha says: That they told him nothing of the value of the land in Okla-
homa; that they told him the value of his land was $10,000, but that he was not to
receive money but land in Mexico; that Mr. Bentley made him these statements; that
he has not received money, nor has he sold his land; that which he has done is to pro-
pose (offer) his land in Oklahoma for exchange for land here; that he was not to receive
• any money, but land in Mexico in exchange for his land in Oklahoma; that he has not
received any land and does not know the reason why; that if they comply with what
was offered (their agreement) he is satisfied; he says that he has not signed any deed
nor have they made him any notification of information as to the paper signea; that
he sifiped a document for the exchange of his land, he and his wife nere in camp; but
they have not sold it (the land) and have not yet received the land in exchange; that
Mr. Bentley presented them the document referred to and they signed it, putting the
hand on the pen in symbol of si^ature, but without other witnesses than the same
Bentley who gave them $200 Mexican solely because they signed. (The consideration
in his deed is $10,000.)
"Wahpuckweche, wife of Wahnahketha, says: They did not tell her anything of the
value of the lands in Oklahoma; that when she signea in a camp of Wahpahhekoquah,
Mr. Bentley and another white man that she does not know was with them at the time-
that she signed the documents in order that Mr. Bentley niieht give her land here ana
money was not considered; that when she touched the pen Mr. Hentley gave her $200
in Mexican silver because she did him the favor of signing the document; that he did
not give her this on account of the land but that she might have something to eat; that
she nas received nothing from Mr. Bentley or others for the allotment belonging to her
in Oklahoma.
"Neconopit says: That they did not tell him anything about the value of the land
nor at the time of their alienation; that he did not sell them; that he gave them to Mr.
Bentley; that nothing was said to him about money; that Mr. Bentley has to give him
here in Mexico a piece of land when he may have found it, in exchange for his land in
Oklahoma; that he has not received any money whatever; the payment was to be by
exchanging for other property in this country; that he has not sola his land, therefore
he has not received payment from anyone; that they did not explain anything to him;
he believed he was exchanging one land for another; that Mr. Bentley persuaded him
to change his land. (Consideration, $2,000. )
"Ahnothahahquah says: That they told her nothing of the value of the land; that
when she touched the pen in Eagle rai« Mr. Bentley gave her $200 silver, because she
would exchange her land; she received but $200 for herself and her husband jointly;
that she does not know why that money was given to her. (This woman is the wife of
Neconopit.)
"Noten says: That he received 80 ac-res from the United States Government; that
when he resolved to come to Mexico Mr. Bentley made him umlorstand his lands were
worth $2,000, and when he signed the document they did not tell him anything; that
Bentley did not tell him anything regarding the amount of money, and they told him
that the document he was signing was in exchange for another land in Mexico; that
when he touched the pen he received $I(K) American from Mr. BeiUley and that he
believes they were given him on account of the exchange of the land hcHliould receive
here; that he has not, as yet, received the land in exchange; that Mr. Bentley told
them he was going to obtain pennission to sell the land, for tlie which he .^'igned the
document. (Con.sideration, $3,000.)
"Tahpahshe says: That she never knew anything of the value of the land; she did
not know the contents of the document, but she signed it in Eagle Pass when there, that
Mr. Bentley might give her a piece of land in Mexico in exchange for hers; that they
AFFADB OfF THK MSMJCAS KICKAFOO CnMAJTSu 3187
did BOC fpokalrait samev. ben tfcat tber v^gvld girp ko-a pKi^ « iaad
d^ bhad m Oirlihr— ■: tkst whoi ike toadbed tke pn tlhej okv k
ihM Afr ^iTiytfrnaadi tint it wim iar her to cat ilmyprsfTKaoBs iM ib psjiBent
ferltfrEdOki: th^sai Ae b:w bc« i«ceiTcd JtortlKiiii^ <mi ;>ei^^ cbot tbe* :PiOi!>
* KiAk^ax^wiii^ s^j§z Tbis fcr ilIm- haad to wfasdi he mAde niM- diiieoxBcas ia Eflgifr
I^ai hfi- dki Bioc f»f!<rTe mrxMj. hm nf^y w«ne- to frvv- tOfsi Lkibcif m ^rrhmgc !b»it-;
meiw 4id tibfty t<II bini tibe 'f^lnM' o€ the- bict^r t£ukS li«- diiei otoc rpf:iH:T<»- mjeiwej m. Eft^ie-
I^ai i^r ^tu*- iuui: nhaR b:^ ^^clIt s^jiyrSii^i dsuB- p^^a ia f7Bibr..| --ii ^Egnmg' tike- <^jCTiiraiaL::
iaj ''/ri^»r tiiaiS lue- msghs jrr*- htm ikod fe«^ ■ ta M»^xw!t j • . ■ •.'»/cw»imJ:ir>a ^JJWOj
"Xe- pchh: ba^L. m. ^ -jki^^dkTht Lti^^^n baefljre- mie- thtt :3(Lfr. idij 'VC Ans^tssc. Wj^, Jhtmam
W- Aiir:r»!L niserpr*^*^. atj*: ■ lni".ii>«ire- Xo. i5-; ThA5 ai"> pier»/Ci imaiie *ot mjAtaniatt
to» her ia r?«wri n,> ;iiL«- ^n^ -oc l:u!^ in. t&fr nMriib*:-rfei>>l <?t >hAWTi»»e- Ukliu. a^ tibe
tbe* parpnnirti iole • oc b^er jli^^nsieiit &:«jk ^k^atz zbikn ni> «CAJi<»ciiHitf vi»e moAe zo
hf Mr. BeTLtit^ us to> die- aimfOVBit cti narjcuey he- «r>a&i faaTc &> pkj her <or ha* Iibe-
d §:w nlL<e- LkCjil: tibikS ^L«e- <;£ij«» sr-c r^tiiieisib^r tliat ^bft ssnam aoj 4e«d fcr a&ir
laiafi in OkkjibK:>cn:k. b<in ••iM^es ri^izbeTn.b<^ rJi:&& jocbe ninu^ iMti fprimir ihle vm^ »fi Edn^xr
Fmi jod f&e- -iiii 'utzf-h nii^e- p*eQ i^ :k sjEnb.)! r^i *agnrng ber rsskms^ z^y <oo2:e popis', bat Jts
dhe iKadecETTjivi nha* pikp*er it r^Zi^ V/ ;& kat!*^: ztotz ^2^ ^ibi m j« iimiiiei^naatfl tJbot dae*
was fflrrrnyr a d^r^i a:r di!*- iaie- or r.raniifer --^^ Lka«i: rii;fcu ;k ^rbici?- man 5.:4ti h*?r tr^ t^waclt
the- D*ii -imi b^i ti: B.r tK^r t»> V/nrii d5«%- aanae-. aad Ae- tonK*bi?#i zhft pett: tbac Ae-dki
ant Kni-jvr f:h.«*- rriAn., n*^*r h;kiine ««h«: fc-im. fc«»*iee-: ni> dsi-.qk^ wrk* 2iT*ti her aui tbis
zia^ srr *LQ«"e icl**^ a.r niie Dftp^ ifi*^ ascije*i. ni>r ii$ ii»r atf *fc.*r- kru'^'v* v^jif any Daftiiiey
twC fcu';'^ riian *L*- ?"--fa* -*4>&i ucLT Lvnii. Ami j«» Etr ;k§ ^^Ssfe- it* OjCuci*rn<»:*i *£«• BiniieEscaaeij
la c^tLnrH-^r.a:?! Tr:.:^. lii-^ btft: Ah»/Tr.eHiir^r.avc**it a:5iiATtn. I irilf ir„jt,:i*- nfcas X^yahhah^.
wia*- •:•! Kit*hi:-^rrL:':qi-r^. 'zjj»i h»^*tii a-ii:e *u:k.. Acui b b»^j^ii«^ n-^oeaBJirj ti-/ ^> &: her
«fczn^ ^> u^r 'is=:r i^.>*i'j.c.: *h:ir. Tr?.-rc tt't r'^sw^iiei r.h.-e ''!!fcin& Anui 4.»cmii tbM sb^ was
HSittnsr *p, Anii zi:*: £^-71:1:^* ^.oi cn-.rrpr^ecer iz wa* .i**^c:^f-»i rjt^ss: Ei> hxr^ hrr CiCEue to
the jtiZ'rr.r'T in .rirr '..• "-Lk:-=^ ii-rr Ai5ii:kTiii- A* inll h**- 3i>c»r»i. niiig wriCQAa. •dietinictlj'
tesciiie* "ii;ir. *L-r kni.^*-* n»-.-f.iizn:r Arjf.n-. *r'ri rng jtaT .ir«r»i S>r ibje- akle -oi fib^r ^'jcmc&n
<o€ lier 'i*rr.Tri2i»*^i Ltiizsi'".'^. '^<i" iii*r.inr:niT •i'rt^iir^^. At* ifa.!*^ tmii'^rscjaMi* k, th:AS Ae h
sdE ill-*- •:':rr.-^ .c *Ai«i Anf.crrLf*^::. WrLetL Mr. Ailfliri r...<-k h.*^ fCACetaetLS *rBi sfe«k
feaiki ir. *..> hrr ptkrkzn;,<i by ptkTkzrkpo.. iii^ «r«k.ir<i •^^npcrh.'iiii^aliT tiiaas b^w AkCesLecs
wae ar&^. if ier ?rMkr.rci«rc.s ha»i >>Hrn -Alceti an Mizq uz a& -cur wcrii iLe- >-jr.hf^n^ I ^m
Tbr: pJii** —-:*'.. rr •:! Jtr D'riirl'^y 'u* -C i:^^''^^^!!" i:i"rT»ri*r, . h»r«::Ar]a«r tn it* & mn^Lrnsr *^xpl*-
aaum:c. :c o.c^rCLpi-.n.r;/ ■■'.zii-^-.r M/ p*=T3«-.QaI -Tp#rr.»^ni:>^ -arbih. Mr. B'^tiiifiey wens-
QQC srarri k* V. r.T-r zirr An -rxii-.rii .pinn-.r :^ bj:* ':n-birLk:**-»i* ■■:■€ cnir^n'j- Ahrjut
l&r»f^ j-^ar» *i~':vr I ir'A* **tti: "... ttcj^'wzj^. '>£La . ",..• ciiAke ah iriT-rsTjisEAJaiiCL of £Doatf(-
cfearz*^ B^!i-.L-7 i^ii prrt-rrr^rii Jte2kij:£*r. Tf^ptrrji-.rniirtin Tbark^rj, JkOxi Edflaediktely
isprjG 31 J im-TAl -Ji-rr-^ £ ir^-ti". *.., Str^ B^^r^'bty ± --.iSi^.y^ ASii ':.,ti bina I wau pir»^pttre«i t»>
BOiib^ "Ji:rr 1' v^r..:Zi.r.j - c lii-rf*^ :hAry^ ATji A^keii b..::! v.- rimirfii ibe pr^/C. '%r.#r. He-
jB&i h,^ -w^-* r.-.ii^r '.- '.^i.' - "Ji-r .:-,T -.h- d.Li! -¥-L:i;;riii-r-.:riir T-ery .*ar{y oa very krapr^rcaiLt
b»iHir.**?» Tri.-.ti ■•.•il.i -• "> -.»^ i^LtT-^i. '.r;n *r^-.rt: p».»*i:lt-ht, nii -bje- pruEsetkce- *Di Mr.
T^kii.'i.rrj init r-y^[i. -.jlll', 'n^ -«r 'J,i rri:ir:i l:l :ir. .f liir*^ 'iky* He- fftai tbas bae-
W'.rLlii r-r _'Ti '-7 -.:ir -ni^iriAT :' lis •s-.:i:z' K^ iyi zj.r. rM:»ir:i •-& Skcnrrb-y Ami wb^^n
InfiFp*^:'..!' i£ : L-i .-x^- ' ' " ir^i •h^L: ■^'-rn* '.. li:;* r'^i«i-^CL«:v- iz. ??b:kw:iee- bi* tknixiy -iiAfti tbaiS
wiu?ci Mr B^ri-;.-v >c^ ji-^ ::,: -, .-, ^ip-.^-*: -... r*r.,_-7. 'jn-,biii a-»ir •:r lv«*- wr»rk* Ami nb^s
bie ba*t -r. "^ ■.^: : .'•-- ir-.-'^r v-.::i::r: 2 rir .r i-*- lAy*. S'. 2* r»aily inijr'.amkCe- 5i>
ItJkir^ i^.i^z^ -s".".! 1. iij,r_ vni^n- -r.ri •.:* A.'fH l.-r-lj riiirriiskr-ir I aci *iJCTy 10 say
*/. br;'. I '.iL.nJc 1^' i-.-n'.l-y ..-^ >^. y.^ i-'wr. iz. ".h-r iCAXe -.c i:u:rAl ::irpi'rai«t iihAS b-e
Wb*rr'r b-T b^- i." .^■■•-----..'.' -,.. :•: •wt.zjz b-r <-.aii rj:»: b»^ irTisr..*+i -o i:- razb.'.
Mr. Tj^'.-i-/ .:. .;. - c i..- r-C'.r:- --. "b- L^^ciir-jnTrn-:. -siy* -'.c Mr. B-^nra^^y: "H*r ae a
Terv --^ ..-r, _: _:..^-: . - ^ --.- , -'i^^:. ' ir:i.. bii.-* a p'xrr Lu:- a -los Ami n.ii'^ T^rirv rfy paw»,
in. wiij'.n '.n^-c-r u- •?< rj.- % r^r ♦r.:L.-z- '.{jltt*
?f^»^r.:i ".'-"■. -7.: Tjl^ i-r;-' bo.- vr-'.r^i.i-ii aL Aiijo? "ibsAC B*rnJ.irry. wbite iC'^tu o< tb**-
iBxi^ixzi- b-r- ■-'-.-■ T-: ".- _■: .a .c r-r.r:i:^ -jie H!':tiprogr»sg£v*^* Irrtistnt* — dirjeer tbiAS
he o:«-.-i ■•'.cv.'- !:!■: ^- z.j^:.j z^i.c-. a* ^luei.'tii** — ',0 siOT-^ Vj- MtrxLcrj. wisib; !ih»e- smr-
•iki^'-.nrfi - --^t >r^ .1' ::'-^'.Tji b.l-: .c -Jitlr Llml o^ccrjChar 'it^r l^atites, aati ofetmaiteiy,
by ''J'-.r^tr'-^^f^i'-. -ui 1 i".-.:.- - y- i-.-.r :.. -^-Ll "b-ir Ian<t izi «jkIiAbi:inak- aif is w»§ becijiaiB^
iBriT*- 'aI::^.-.' - ' -r/ 7 -at. at-'I irLv ««^oitr "A'^p iabzrt m Meikrj- i:r a osM^tiOQ flr a
ishe •:€ -^rbiA;; ±r '.:irL'i ^-nzuc? Lfer^ Ami "iiK*o. p»>rke^ rihe dsferHice-- I b«lieT« thai
2188 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO IKDIAKS.
Superintendent Thackery is correct, because there is convincing proof that while
agent, Bentley, by false representations to your office in reference to Okemah having
large inheritance m Mexico, thereby orevailed upon your office to permit Okemah to
go to Mexico. In connection with Okemah 's remo^, it may be stated that upon
the urgent representations of Bentley that a stallion was needed to breed up the
Indian ponies here, your office authorized, at an expense of several hundred dollars,
the purchase of a stallion, and in less than thirty days this stallion, with two mules, a
new wagon, harness, etc., were shipped to Mexico for Okemah.
Attention is called to a memorandum of conference held with some of the leading
Kickapoo Indians at Shawnee, April 10 and 15 last, in which, among other matters,
complaint was made about Bentley's course, saying that several of the Indians had
heard Bentley make offers to certam of the Indians to pay their expenses to Mexico.
(See Inclosure No. 34.)
Attention is called to the affidavit of Thomas W. Alford, chief clerk at the Shawnee
Indian School, in which he states that Mr. Bentley had permits from your office and
made issues of wagons, harness, etc., to the Kickapoos and the Big Jim Shawnees if
they would go to Mexico, or to such as were inclined to that scheme. (See Inclosure
No. 35.)
Mr. Alford is one of the most reliable men in our service. I have known him for
years and have implicit faith in any statement which he may make. (His affidavit
will again be referred to.)
Attention is called to an affidavit of Superintendent Thackery (Inclosure No. 36)
in which he states that for reasons given ne had opposed the appointment of both
ex-Agent Martin J. Bentley and Lee Patrick as guardians of Indians; that Bentley
ur^ed him to withdraw his objections to his appointment as legal guardian over Indian
mmors and stated that if he would do so that he would be the best friend that he had
and support him in his work at all times, but that if he continued to oppose his appoint-
ment as guardian over Indian minors he would "fight him to a finish." In this con-
nection Mr. Thackery stated to me that Mr. Bentley was so solicitous about this
matter that he shed tears.
Miss Elizabeth Test, present field matron, having been employed in that capacity
since 1892, makes affirmation ^see inclosure No. 37) that during her continual inter-
course with the Kickapoo Indians she was advised by them that Mr. Bentley was
doing everything in his power to induce said Indians to move to Mexico; that he was
telling them that there would be soldiers sent here, and if they did not go away there
would be war and the Indians would be killed; that all the Inaians that remained
here would have their children taken away and sent to distant schools: that he told
her that he was going to get lands for these Indians in Mexico, where they could be
entirely free to hunt and their children would not have to go to school; that he com-
mencea to work upon the minds of the Indians by sending small parties down to
Mexico to see their relatives, etc.
There is no doubt whatever but that Bentley, after his release from the custody of
the Mexican officials, was intensely active with the Indians in his efforts to thwart
the object and purposes of this investigation. Tah pah she, an old woman over 70
years of age, ana one of the seven allottees, made a statement freely and voluntarily
to Much e nen e, one of the most truthful and reliable among the Kickapoo Indians,
as to this land transaction, which was in substance as follows (see inclosure No. 38):
"She said that she was taken to Elagle Pass, Tex., and there was taken to an office,
where she was told to touch the pen. She asked what this was for, but, without expla-
nation, she was again urged to touch the pen (symbol of signing), and they kept
urging her to touch the pen. She asked acain, ' Is it for lease?' and was given to
understand that it was. She finally touchea the pen, and then was eiven $3(X) Mexi-
can silver. She asked what this was for and was told by Bentley ,' Oh, jii?t for vou.*
She came back to Muzquiz, and finally, when her money ^ve out, she found she
had, instead of signing a lea*<e, signed away her land, and thL«* was not what she had
wanted at all, ana she wanted the matter investigated and made straight. "
By referring to her sworn testimony (inclosure No. 19), it will be seen that her
statement was very different. In fact. Much e nen e said that Bentley had been
talking with the woman, who had yet to give her testimonv, and he was afraid that
she would not make her statement as she had made it to "him. The facts are that
Bentley exercises an influence and power over these Indians that is unwholesome
and boiles no good for the Indians. 1 have seen enough of his work and his methods
to realize how, in some measure, he has gained their confidence. He knows every
one of them, and when they come to him for money they generally get small amounts.
He has persistently and continually worked upon the prejudice of the Indians by
telling them they are not civilized and never will be; that the superintendent here,
Mr. Thackery, is a school man whose purpose is to force their children to si!hool; that
Arrxzw» i)fr thi xxxicas kickaf(¥> E3n»fA3c^. 21ad
w rJs/gf 9» tto XesBoo ill wfl b» aOiMPed »» bmh xad knft M vS: t&H ^ip^ vii or^
3fr. B^ocW v:» r:&i»^ a^Km Ifm A* Kidbip«» ior afeos ax jnun^ ancL ahiu^^q^ hft
4gmfi» SE. ^hi^ is or. r»a«iaAfc4f(- liemtL. H ikt ImtMng »«: so. Ik hf^ae%^td, shac Hr.
- emu*- wim %Sbrimmi bjr Mr. mscfli^ »> talK' aioa^ vifik kiBK qnaut a kA ci fV.^^rnr.
[ pcTj^^iTZj nbjuL hoA b«ws mmm^ Wt, Iol TWt naEvrarekiiis twjem. p^or '-^Iri^ <c&fLta^
WhiL'' lee-nr. 5'x rJii»ae laifraaw^ m c&cr eiwrinis^BKlrja^ 3fr, B^msliej warn Ducrxaii^QSAX
is bacTTB^ siaiiT '^^^ ch^ i>Qi*>C2iuciiGi ''^ €&& lariuaK <;aaK«led^ lec fee coift pnr|r.«- of fXTLi^
liH& %-'^/fb^ Iciii^uM w^ woa^ wiA^mk wtkxnusma, \im i& mc.m r^turs irkk/^ suhi^
3Effr. :3& , .% frrr kb prjfcrjrjfi ba^ b^«% jih*/liah«HtL 3fr. B^seIi^ ae oom- crjumuiDci^i s&
iiKlr.iifir»^ X-: IH, ijiii -.-, i^fsitf^- ?ihi!r KidkifKri laniraiiw &> Bir)-7<i»' tw-j 31<^xiif^j>. OEprjo. wlui^k
tv«> pertprm.-:!! .c» in*- h:M <ii»'^>ot4 kiii <49VT» aa4 OflK-. Hm vtivk- Klb%m«^, m n: ^pf^.i7S
»> 011^, wm p^iz'rij «^!i8ii — r/> rrASSwA ^ut ■ocKy sui fiaoi^ "A marges, and 8f j 'tnanrrtl xH
■HO*^ aibi Lkn<i ■;€ jtetilrj ac w«t£i as ■bmo ol lft»irrjv aoi^ c^jb hi!- hsM <^>ifti»- &>:> * I^r^
mx^QjiL T:' knt'.w nhr-»-t Kir. kjk^jTj Imtjaaaa n, M^isxn m to karyv chac r,h«»7 «% fiiEL-bd'^-^ti
fltmri A T*r7 f*v wn rin of EaeliaiL lad * T»rj fe«ir w»wiii of ^ptkOai^ '-jr M^-mtan -jfis^
a* 2ik vbi'.u^ :iitr7 ir»r la !»»» mr.iHlii^ifae diaa sJn^t vneofpt iaSi-kiffA LittitKrif Tli(»-
l^«aB:<»r ma-ii^rrnj ir» amrii Likit "iiiSfirwi. aad ca «7iiu»- caff's ^iiae I mkw 'Ji*rT '»-Tr»- t-tj
Kar.fL liik* L:3ih«H-/J)«». Tbrfw* ap»- r^aCy Kitii»- Aaii->c«r 6i:**sp»- Kirkaprrji m. 5<*iirx iih^s
av^ '^•fZLp'^^Ti'. '.. inxunrr. aziy b*:u&:ni»si aid£JU«9 <'A aarr &±aii, jkzsii in je«ri23jft jb ih;:uzif>^ rJi^u:
iiff 'fj'sra. aa-Ts**-, ▼tu-. '-.'iLi acf. hrjorjw ISM* fsr^Oi aaiy ptoKii or baci[ a. 5&;»r»-aiH»- or
A^^hi^r* TP-.tb^ar. ri^iJ^ 'ua«^ fc*K mrrssvaj. hf: ham t^xwjw^ c&fjiasaiBiis of '^tAlaur^ .:i
«r onhi»r i^-irr. j For fe-.rms ci fe^Mfty't nwiwptt hhs^ BB£lr..snr»^ Xiiu -iliL;
<!i£7. jtfOiJidT, B^nr.Ir-T 07 ::lu>- Intrfaaw. wtu^ mmk^ mck a^ twnMghgfesmMj ■fttf^^ou'^ic of
tfti»r TrLr^aa'T.ii .^ss iv^'ii kim. as M> fesv^ tiaalit- rxmm i'M dsvfac One ■Httacs' -A matzrr j^
t&oc -'.f >Lu7- P-rtif^.;ii ; .ui I^Liiiskzi ip-jcaaoL of ^jTjii ff^puzaCKft. w&> iiiisjwii mmuTjm^ tain
Sfaissr, ExrT^.ii^ i'.r «!n.h«rxci^miMxiL aJk^EO^ tist lib*' dox fTJlW ia lit lli! f^i aa^athi in
tnm, Vi 'it^mz t.r iif»r ai ih«»^ Fsnc XackMuii Baoiik ol S^-vhskv ^"^ ^^><«c ^ 23^^*^ ^''^
w^sir h»^ !!tt^i iTis & r%iH:pr.. biS wtmdfc ol nslaST was a iKr^iBsarirj ikDfii*: fr>r ^ par: of ioi&i
Mr. E^tirii-j ii:cii-:n'.*»ft v^ m«- tkatc ac <<»» siiiM- h^t h»d mAr»r c&ao. SSA.^QO' ia i» hoiuij
casft- £»* r^:i»^i ".' p-aj "i!,*ci. h*::! ^ii*/ r^hj^ Tpr.c. iuh hi:oi:r ■'' _ l^h^ -w^-^tdA cat*
Sft i. *v»r pinc.-r v.".:i '.Hrr Iiij: ;kr.t» ''*i-. -Ji'rv ii: ni.r. ♦hor* 1:3. di* pr;trc*, tih:Ui if. *Ti^-ri-
mg 'i'j &-^"ti:Lr-7 -ii-y ir* parj>»T» wtri:ii:»in pr-,tis*. Th«* T*rj a*^ tiaas ol aH hji* r'tol
•••jnii **% 1. *rr cur pr«^i:z.pni4:a m. ciu* aniiinoc a^-^irj :c h.:i» i:nt«i!: r^i-^ -i-rcxai siift!^
BftriPi-- A'---' ri.zir *-. iLitf '.Tn ♦r-fc.':^ci«i-r: v. ant ^.-rer^callT. h«* has 'i-^ai". -irtm rji'*«*^
Iiii«narj* -.c :r.-^ -£!•»<. rj *iiAi': -Ji-*7 ir*f^ •^c.iiitr»n. anil •iki a-.c tci^-^' r»aILT ij-.tt v. -nnaaiT.
If •±.'*r^ ■»!»* •-■-•r iji:*: -.ii:!-; tti* wril asirii#«3: 'raf.#!*L k was thac ni:r. :cli* •K-.-uri-* --.ci^ c
iii^»k &jr.k-kp#x IzjI .i>rt» Jui»rw rJiis- «xct«sTws or nfc^ wxrprr: oc di«ft paj^rrs -Ji«»Tr w*ri^
iaufait^ V -Hiri- !:i:r ttm :€l»» \t »±.^ait pap^o 4«*A *^3Lpixnt^ K rJi**m, -.r •Hi±«' .c
loim k.ri»^ r-it:;i2i- ]LC>c><!9es --^ •arh ^^nd as nif.«TJr««i!r. Mr, B-Kiri<»7- ^t:2ir:r.#yi v.
■K-. a. 4^*»ai!i:izir x •-.cji K^n^ ihac h«^ was ^xnri^liahl**' a» a CLaz. aod almrjifl: w^.rui^sK m
as. cHMrpr»fu»r;'cisc Sr»«|^KS(Klkj W btMl feoad fcat nBu«|)r*sa£tt»is t& be wti^j '
2190 AFFAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
He further said that iors four dollan ire^wonM, lie had no doubt, turn agauist his beet
Mend; that he was untrustworth^r. Johnny Mine, as he ib aJIed, is an ignarant,
drunken, wortMess Indian. He tried almost every day, when he was sober enough to
walk and talk, in his broken and unintelligible English, to carry on a conversation
with me, but I coidd not understand more than a half dozen words or so that he uttered,
and I am positive that he could not interpret a document like a deed to any Kickapoo
Indian. And yet, this worthless, unreliable Indian, was the interpreter emploved
by Bentley in executing deeds that involved property amounting to over $100,000.
The considerations named in the deeds of these seven Kickapoo Indians aggregate
$31,800, as follows: Okemah, $8,000; Thithequah, his wife, $5,000; Wahnahkethahah
and wife, $10,000; Kishkenicquote and wife, $2,000; Tahpahthea, a single woman,
$1,800; Neiconopit and wife, $2,000; and Noten, $3,000; as above sUted, $31,800.
The actual payment in American money or its equivalent for this property, valued
at $100,000 or more, was $750.
Two of these allotments (Okemah and Thithequash) were bargained for $39,500, of
which ^2,500 was paid in cash, and notes given for the balance. (See letters of Shaw-
nee Townsite Qompany, toeether with the abstract of title, etc., inclosures Nos. 42, 43.)
The allotment of Wahnankethahah, as I am reliably informed, has been bargained
for to a Mr. Whittaker for $44,000. Noten's land in Lincoln County sold for $3,500.
This makes a total for four allotments of $87,000.
The other three allotments, at the very lowest estimate, are probably worth $15,000;
and vet, without explanation or knowledge of their contents, these Indians — who
are absolutely incomoetent to transact the most ordinary kind of business for them-
selves— have been inauced to sign papers which none of them understood, but which
they all thought, all believed, and all testify related to an a^eement to an exchange
of their allotments in Oklahoma for lands in Mexico, but which in reality were deeos
of sale to propertj^ worth more than $100,000.
Attention is especially invited to a letter of Mr. Henry C. Jones, herewith. (Inclosure
No. 44.) Mr. Jones was my interpreter, and I desire to say that he is (ar and away
above the great majority of Indian interpreters. He was formerly a member of the
Sac and Fox national council. He is bright and intelligent and is a progressive, indus-
trious, reliable man. He has one son uiat is a graduate of Harvard and is now em-
ployed by the Smithsonian Institution; two other sons and two daughters are gradu-
ates of Haskell, and all are doing well. Mr. Henry Jones is a thrifty farmer. As an
interpreter he was conscientious, faithful, and painstaking. He spent quite a ^[ood
deal of his time at the Indian camp, where he had a better opportunity to come mto
closer relationship with the Indians, and was thereby the better enabled to find out
the true situation of affairs. In his letter herewith he says, in substance:
First. That the above-named deeds were not explained nor imderstood by any of
the Indians. (Seven allottees.)
Second. That all the Indians except one fully imderstood and believed that the
papers which they signed related to an exchange and not to a sale of their land.
Third. That the Indians did not consider the little money which they received
was in payment or part payment for their land; and,
Fourth. That the whole transaction was a stupendous fraud upon these Indians
from beginning to end.
By reference to the deeds executed by Okemah and Thithequah, his wife (inclo-
sures 23, 24, 25, 26), for 80 acres of land each it will be seen that the acknowledgment
before the notary was defective in this, that the acknowledgment recited that the
grantors were "identified" in one case by "Noten and John Mine," and in the other
case by "John Mine and Okemah."
After these deeds were received and placed on record they were pronounced defect-
ive under the Laws of Oklahoma, as appears from a letter of the Shawnee Townsite
Company (inclosure 45) and other deeds, bearing exactly the same date and acknowl-
edgments as the others (March 7, 1905), were sent to Eagle Pass for execution. At
the time of our invi»stic:ation, owing to a loss of some papers in transit forwarded to
me by Superintendent Thackery, 1 did not know of tnis transaction, and therefore
did not question any of the Indian grantors upon this point; but from their testimony I
am confident that these later deeds were never signed by the parties in interest. It
any of the Indians had been called to P^acle Pass upon this business a second time,
some of them in giving testimony would nave mentioned this fact. They testifiea
in each case as to goin^ to Eagle Pass to sign some papers, but no mention was made
by any of a second tnp for this purpose. Of course this is a Question of facts, but
knowiiig the course that has been pursued by Mr. Bentley ana Mr. W. H. Bonnet,
the notary and friend of Mr. Bentley, 1 have strong reason to doubt the eenuinenesa
of these Later deeds. It is impossible that they were executed on the 7tn of March,
1905. 11 they were really reexecuted, why was not the proper date inserted?
Ajj».'i.> oi rrti Mi2:-.i^- Ki'.flU?'.'-:' :sL:±ys^ il'^l
!i»^ *iir'-'*ii fftai picer •. 7 - i.-:r;.-^ ij* iiii.-'i •-: k r*-. . i-'-ii ^^r. -Jiiip* TF*r» ii*. :rJ:i»r penrxM
▼TiL-^ z:a;i. iins *nj» ijt ifX iZj.^ T^r» cr<w*c.i Jr.ci zzm krizi-.-F-JriirsuHi: v. "aiHr
•iiwii. -juuisi Wi^-.ii r ljr<;n r: ivceaua vlir. -.i:t» iafiii vl* u:'£Zi:^'jni:ZB^i :xl atji iaae
K ".If* :ncifli^r^ c :^t _-i-:«fi ^--ir.**. 'L:.i-iiii; p-.rL-ji In^iz. 3-f*Xj::: :c *aiii ias*. isii
ij* birj v;:.t inr'ajti- irirr''-"-'.-! -• uu-***! -: IiZj-TiIk- .-Wwir fr.ci Mr Hacjy C. J:ci«l
III i.a.1 11 -.rr -;; •■* v r ia "rrti "v ; ".rrji ■ •^r • Jdt;. — x .1. : ii le mj* -^\ ' Mr B-bl*: l»»7 ':^: iiiij
ill! II : -.c *:'iiK :c "..Ik -L:iir .c "iriK .-^ii.: Li-i -; :x Z-i|i:j,r-.^ :!f ttul-.z. it: -«'2p!S ^ * zjin^'.tse.
?^i-:'— -1;? "..: iL' i-*iiiti»T M' .7:ti-a* iJiT^ * i* *»t.il v. iii* ^*'^ zi^xltt^'zaz. yji
p^M 'n>:£ ii.ciK j'x» r: v. v:rj: .c 7.»l." '.^'.'^'•-^. ia 2 :■. "i«^*r*^ .•_:•■. Oyo:*. •*»* v:l_'pic
iitii-* .o-i'irf -.^ "uLi^r* izii ▼* ■¥-_- rr". -jjI'I* ^t*^ :.■_ irri..'/ : r ":>i-'-i i^i^i ▼» -v-Jll iare
■X ff.i-Z'.j *r.r^. ier* 'jfjir «;c ^.TLii" ^* i r.«.»i ■.•.«. £x.^:e.* T'^iw* :s & Tiiaz.-.:Jt xa
l.v. r.'.K-VjjL'.fr.j ir-r- -Ji-d -.::c *'-r;i ■:.»."- vz'uL Mr i-?:ii-u.K7 M* ."■.»-..« .-aufcr.,**! :^ v. aie-
H*'"-!;! -Jii _;-■:'-; ii^*^ l". ".ii«r -■.■-'i— .-; .i Mr riot's I k^n '.-.c-jiLi^y. -^lj,- -^ 5:r«»:is^
>_« *o:t-_i^ "„i!i -.rui.n,.'^' .■; JC* .--■-.-.►t7 M.' Ar:r- :.• T ^'iftir^^j ^•n.-iif^ --.Ay.
TF'.r^ I jtrv .c t*^i'..-„"-j: I-:* **^r . i^t?; "*. ri-i.v. ..". r I." 1 •■-;■ .*'. .:'.'i ** '"-•* zi^e* xij-.i lift
■:ui— "•r<: ". . :v.i ■• Th* ■•r'i- '.^aT'g :■..' M.' "• 'j-i "..■•: 7 kf JT bi .;-^': z:»* Lii-.f^i»d
M' 2:»r:":^'-7 '-ui". ._: i-r "uii^ ■.-.— .'.Jiirfra.i :;r:i ::. tl* i-.i; -r.c*?- 'uin'. -e iiiii'Lii :nc:s«iir
lij I'- ■:• -■-*.' ■: i" ■- —.-JL.
.L* : .r;/.ir-- -111. v-./.j- -.,1!* :-ia,.-i,:-rr ■.«:>£• I.tI'Lli*— i~-*r.-:u:c "j» '.a^Ie: v. 'J:* i^iirrza
:t if* -•-: ■*: i-vi Jf* «':'i.is i.:-: -ui»r i.r..— j:ii.-.j-.»-_ .r r-i-iiitrl X-*!. jLi*«: -^ zz&i^i^
r-iiiT".-*^ --.--^ t' -t* '• M' A.:.*: .c i^ .vi cii-.-^jr*ii-«> z^eiiaicij la
:•:::■ ur^'i -> •'...■..■. 4- : .\l' Z-.-r-.^-; li.; 1^ .".•.':^.i v.cio:! A.-_-j* pTt.xi . iii»i itA:^*s
-.^la- i. -.^..1 V L- ■•.ri ^v -.la:, .i j* li i*:T:rr:-r'i ii..-. lzij.-i^ -.i^: Z:ii" .L."t* :c Trij'Jiii*
^ JL ll«rll ir- l*liL.*. "-le il.lj-: * .C l*l-r :il_-i -- i£.' l.*'. ^^^r; 1".1J* il.".^ XL* ktminU*!! »
JL-.-- i»rr- '.1.1.. 7 -.7 '-.1: .-r ?r* •:.: I •:■:'. i^-*t: - rii.-- -1.1 :-.'. v,i_t i-r ▼!.» -^k..jj£ lit* :?iB»-
««•* iJi-i:ii^' '-JT I-:i.i-..-- iir -.i;t '.^i;!:: A.' i-i-r.-urj itLj i.fciCi»i "uij* v :--;L" rrici in*
Publl* V_iil".njr'7 l.r L .lUi.l V.'..-! L^: VJ- ".lU,: Ill^AZ^- l-Lll.l'.rii 5C** TTt! I^ "Tif*.
M.*:? 2— :x. i v;.:ij--": !._-?;;. iatj t*-i.:-^ "..ix". '.xi-^ rii-. : Az-i.-: P-n-Ai. -vzatl li^r -^ '4
Tk* i" •■'■.: : ii..-L-.-f -■. : vi..-; -r^i-.LZiZ "-le zi_«a:n. i.:jzu:'v>ir^i 'uias Mr M. J.
..iii-.L.> i .1'..* a.u; Lrti.- ^. .:..._,: MrT.-. ■ : i.* -.ii:i.: Mr 2:.r:i.:i.-*7 Jia.1 ^ ti^.
iii T.r--.u.-. L -Lj,\L—r i.i L^ -v .-".J.-, .r T . - 1" .-..- :i.ii- -.■: Z'^r-.-'J-L ▼i--±. "¥1*
Zi^ai' ■J..'..' i,".-^ ".JiL: '..•. ■* xki 1*1 r ii-n-: T • .L.i vi_.:i L--. liu: "¥": -r it* "¥111 npins
J'-i»T i. ..- rA. 1 T'lo.r. 2.f:i.-.l-y» :-.'ia i-.i. t-.v. Ai.^r ?**:a:i "ftw PtZj^tLIij
di'm. i::j.ur 1.1 1*1 ^ •; la. a-- r'r-* ~l.\- ti..- .-:.--i- -7 tl* lT'I: f-.-.r v.'t I-.iLiria lai
^T:qa^~-: .1 .■c*tz_ji:r »*.;ii^ :.iL.Lr ■..i .: - .i..*-. -.v. Iz..:..i,i t.Ltz. v. ■.••li y.r -.zi. :tis
■.t "^■'*»- - ~.\i A~.i. - ?--i.i i.:. : "."..i' ■ -• vi- VI :, -^ - "I-it-z.-^^ 'iji.- i^ lia.i -"rifi
101 ".r.tl;! ■ r^l T-.-J. -_1 i;t,. . .'.1.". ? ■ i,.: Vi- .1 _r Ti:- LI 1 T.*. ._■: .£. "^ ^ "'■' iV." iliSilJ-.tl
".1.* V ». : ■,»^ ■■■.i:-". : ••■•: l i..;.".'".ij - i;. -i- ■.'..: 'l- '•' a.-!» i^l "^ii'.ii;!:!' izas
ir'.'^rvi/-- '..k-: i. -..: vi. n .> r-i-'n..; -.•-i.t--: ■. •- i.-?-.-, r i..-: -uia.r. vii-l!*
1.: '. i-iij./. .'.i:. T 1' Jiu: ;. .- .L.ii. - ?-'l.i v. v. : -.. 1:1: tl* .•■-•L..7 „-iiur viti.
iirr t* i-i Ti:- u.i- It 1-1^7 : -..' ■ ^.i ■ - Mi 1 M^i T i.;i.i :.: k.^ij:::'w :Z:-
-'?7'*-" ? T.1.T1 ji- iiL- 1-bi 1-. -« 1 t . .-.c If..: 7i.-;\:ir i *• tit; r^v v.rii :ai zct
*c»^A i«i.- .'"-i-- -.1-14" ..14--: "cU.r. ■-! --..iv-. -
li L ■ i--r':L.\:i ^r. : Tr.\.i i£.' J- i:.-. *•. JC..:.. ..: KtX_-.- i-r • ->»*=-'' rrf-jr^d
V. :^.-* Ir.-:.!.- v.-nj..!.. iz. : i*: v. ■ •. ■ i - M,i- -. \- u- v.- r. r ii.*c f|;«:r. ^ ju 1_5».
liiti ; ^r V. -^i -.^r.H^ VI'-. kr- i.< ". ■.-. -n.i: .; _l- :i. .: ir -s -i.<:^a .""jur v. ihii'F -Jaa
'-!-» -.i-:-ii V..UJ..- _• i :.:;-.jL
I" -it VI .1 -I "■-»-■ :_i:r :-'iT-" _:.•■ I i^' - :-'-ii--: .1 Z}r*\'.r-^fSk^ -i •> » '.a^wi^-: *T:-->r '^"^
3ia=-.,^r3 .: •.: - i.i. -lu. _•- T'l- . .•-- ;..*-. -1 . ; it.- 2,""..- ■ : ---i;* i^ti sii-
2192 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXIGAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
relations with this Indian woman are notorious, and yet, notwithstanding, he brin^
her all the way from her home in Oklahoma to Mexico and has her domiciled in his
camp.
Attention is called to the interrogatories in the case of Mr. Bentley and also, in con-
nection therewith, of the answers under oath of Roman Galan. If timo and opi>or-
lunity were afforded, I am confident that in the answers of Mr. Bentley rep< ated
perjuries could be shown. He said that he has had no representative at Muzquiz, and
Mr. Galan in his testimony swore positively that he has never had any trannar'tions
of a business natun* with Mr. Bentley (his reply to the question was "absolut€»ly none
of any kind "), nor had Mr. Bentley or anv representative of his acted as his represent-
ative in makine collections of amounts due nim (Galan) from the Kickapoo Indians.
(See incloeures rioe. 21, 22.) The facta are that while Mr. Radslaff, additional farmer
at Shawnee Agency, was paying over some $2,000 in checks for lease money, etc.,
to these Kickapoo Indians in Mexico, in my presence, Mr. Bentley had a paper fur-
nished by Mr. Galan containing the names of each Indian indebted to him (Galan).
and as each Indian received his or her check the recipient in every instance was askea
by Mr. Bentley whether he or she owed Mr. Galan anything, and if they did they were
asked by Mr. Bentley if they wanted to pay anything on his or her account. If they
did Mr. Bentley and a Mr. Clark received the money due Galan.
The reputation of Mr. Galan, like the reputation of most of the business associates of
Mr. Bentley, is notoriously bad. Mr. Guajardo, the presidente of Muzquiz, as well as
others, stated that he was entirely unworthy of credit, and that they would not believe
him under oath. From statements many of the Indians made to me, there is scarcely
any room for doubt that Mr. Galan for the past two or three years has been in the habit
of opening all letters that came addressee! to Indians — those addressed in his care as
well as the letters not addressed in his care. The postmaster at Muzquiz told me that
he had been in the habit of giving all letters addressed to any Indians to Mr. Galan.
This practice has now been stopped. Attention is called to memoranda of conversation
had with Presidente Guajardo August 16 last, and fully reported by Mr. Wheatley,
the interpreter. (Inclosure No. 50.) He is a man of keen perception and excellent
judgment, in fact is a broad man in every way and a very close observer. On several
occasions he expressed surprise that any irresponsible man or set of men should be per-
mitted by our (United States) Government to obtain control of these Kickapoo Indians,
Uieir j)ersons, and their property. He said that in Mexico and with Mexican citizens
the aid of the Government would be invoked to prevent such imposition and frauds as
has been practiced upon these Kickapoo Indians. He expressed himself as gratified
that some measures were being taken looking to the protection of their interests. He
says they (the Indians) are i^orant, misguiaed people. If any success attended the
results of our investigation, it is due largely to tne earnest and hearty cooperation of
Presidente Guajardo, who allowed no opportunity to pass to aid and assist us in our
work. In this connection attention is invited to a memorandum of conference held
with the Kickapoo Indians at their camp August 7 last, and at their request. (Inclo-
tuie No. 51.) The presidente, addressing Wah pe che quah as well as all the Indians
that were there assembled, among other things said:
** Mexico does welcome every colonist. She has land and water for them, but she
wants people who can farm, wno have some good honest way of living, who produce
something, make shoes or are carpenters, or blacksmiths who make machinery, and
who obey the laws. She has also a law by which foreigners that are not useful and
do not obey (the laws) can be driven out.
** You have been here now two years. What have vou done; where are your farms;
of what do you live? I have seen nothing but some hunting. What are you going to
do when the deer are all gone, as they have gone where you came from?"
Acniin he said in conclusion:
** Wherefore these are the things you have to do; obey the laws and the authorities.
work and teach your children to work and send them to school so they may learn and
idl walk uprightly and honestly."
Laying aside temporarily matters relating to the deeds herein mentioned and
taking up the other matters contained in your letter of instructions in the order in
which they are named. I have to state —
1. As to the condition of the Kickapoo Indians in Mexico. It would be difficult
for me to describe the actual condition of these Indians as they appeared to me. In
M my experience I have never seen any Indians so low in the scale in both mental
and moral conditions, so dissipated through strong drink and all its attendant evils,
•0 entirely lacking in all the elements whicn make for manhood and civilization, as are
these Mexican Kickapoo Indians. Degredation and misery are plainly manifest and
there is apparent helplessness and hopelessness among all. While a few of the leading
Indians made prof essions of being satisfied with their present condition, I am satisfiea
Irom information that the laiige majority are discontented and unhappy. Promises
aFPaI££ op THJE ItSIICJkX KICKa^'jO :5DLl^■^- 21^3
■W&* ".' "r-arr "AT* ^•i**>!E. ■::iril£ll*'i loi "^i-ry h*nrtr. "..:■ r'^:^!* ".ii* ^^ r:»»^**- : '^ :r-*-»
Kck/td 14 if "Jiry v^T* *:':£l7 it-i iA -■-.': !:^t- r«-r.-ir ir.-i -• 'ir.-iii-r 5ftl ' *• «-.■.- 't
lhtf9% i«Ttj?zji«l '-. '.»^ 'rr-ou t ri^Ti'-.'.j c ' ■-' r_ L frTT 4171 ^Tci* I" : J.' 1 :"- -- r-1 -— . -:
K -rasip ■r-.-.j. :.-.-•: -r---s<:T. - r.' 'i ".-a.- '.it -rt'Ti "Ji..* --.:."■- tl- ' "z* rir../
PsfctTT-: r: .-. -.ii- iTrti". T.-.-'- T.-^ -'^ -Hi r- iiiiz-* :?r«^.y xlr. -- •: -y if.* r-r.- -/
B ^^ p-.-n* :.- _-^ : iri-r.: •>--'-- i-"- •*^ v:?^ il- •."-■ ■. v::::". ar. *•=■ •• .j^:: i-. -
wi«!r«t'i: Jtz.y -,i. ir -r--;-. -. .- r— ^r.-.'.' r. :■ f i>.-,': 1: : . J'. :v:^v z»-r ■; -ir; :- if-T. :i
mntr-T Mr i. -.-. i :." "-•: ■: -. - -.ir --rr.* > v r. :.- ^ f v.^-^ .-i-ir-* ir. : -i. :
ail* ir-izf -Till. --r X- i i^:n:-i": r. xl- i^Tik-l;-;r E- fi. : v-i- t*. :.ii"^ ^t:*^^!*.. ; t:
lap.:, "ui-r *'_r-"..^ IT- 1 -----i* -c Mr ir--£rn Ir. :-:ir> - M--r a. v.- i::r :i. ■■.:-:
pKL-irCi:!:::.". A :ar-:.l .- : .irr l* v m- •;.rr.-.;*^T- Ir. : j.r..- :.•« '■— : V---- r
CSK^^ •-■. ^aI i.->^-i_i -r- T!i - ■- V. -r* ttII ir- i i» ii -'-. -.-. - 7 In v- -« . r. ^ ;. -^ . : : 7 . . •. . r
p^,f.-— '•_t.»'7 -ri-:! V--7 r-' •-.*:■- v.- T .ro.*^ t*l -i- i rj.' -.-7 t!i;""j:-rr.v
2. X* V. "i-.r Irji'i- r. 7";^-*^ Ir. i-tr- ir- -■ tt 1.1 1 z^'--- •^^'-. :• r i.-t '.: tx y-rir-
twar-j •7 -".T-nr.'/r : 1 ---i.. :.*i..-: .: -i-i !■•■.: -: »• ' --...— ^ -. -j.- -. ...lt- ■
H-'-vii: 'n L r. n.iv^r^r.7 ij-^r.-ri. a: m- -..v.- .: .v.,- "--.': '■ \t .'.\ ..: ■ ■.- .•-•-.
fcr "uij* iii.--": I'.', z»^ ij-.c'.*i .- i?ri. -.i- Tz,' r-; ;-i : i»:r. •-»^. th. i : r -^- -rL* i:- --.._•
acfi 'x^. . x-;. -r 1 M r i.-'ar. : . - . .r^^r. zi ■'- \l r 3-r -^ ^ j -.:ir ■ ^' Wr V. '.-_ - :i r . - 7 l- . - vr -
gp*?#*r -•,'.. >v U.T* -Ji-T I-:jl.-.- -rt,-.i-- ::> ^i--l 7-^***=" I- in-- l- ?r^- : ■■-■^
»na;sKri: iz.-i >^ia ;«r -.iir ■: ..i- •• m r.:- r-.-.-^i n- ir^ .- :-.r..--j-.- • ■. .^ x.\-. :,-.-
frrr'j^-* — ':ii T. •.:-*.: 7 f "ui'-r -ji^i^ r. i-'r- •.-". .: '.i-r Ir. : ir* •- « <■ ;. i^-*- ii:.!--
jci jix:*?t x':.. 1 .i r*r.-n_7 i_. .xni v. nz. 1: iiLTi- -.r-tif-.j* .1:. :-.:.- -v. ir. :
wfcpst izipr'_- i-l v.-T I- t^r.' .x-.-« tr* r»«:~..~i t: p»i7 ii.vjur-s. 7i.ir ■.■: :: '.r?»T
3. >-i V V.-..- ■r-:-.T>i"." r.. li :-; " i.- 1 :- vr- -.: -i*^ Iz. : :ir-.- ir-r xT*;iiv»-.": -rr/.-n-.. -. .
Tt*!- pr-tJ'it-r.v aiv-r v_-7 ir- . :i.-r- i.- : '• i^":i - > '■' ."^ pie--.*..7 ".x . .r :/„'-^
4 .Li ..", "iir-"^7 ^I■^■"_7* ~ •■ »*':»r»"*> i" "- . t - '■' I *tir_ Zf'.' i*^ lijk* ■»ii'*'." f -.". ..•* zr f»~«r'"-*.
art i:rii'r.r.'r-"r*i lh : .-/.if v. i.- : ■•^r.'* lUrir ^ ".7 'ii-* i-v ir.-: ^r -ii-^-rr : M."
B«E."J*7 Mar i.-r ir_:..-..-^i *.-. i x-..; zr -ri-.y -c—a:- si M.* ?^i-'.-y -a;r !.•=• r-i.*
fif*T ■■'-.••» -vT.y ;.- ;.Bi- -• ■" •ir^.^i .-.' r • 7- -'.i.-**- ■;.: Mkci. I-':r«*i: '■-. i:^ *ii* "r.i?-
piKil'L* fir ''^-ry^ '-^ ' — *'* i"-" • "-" ^'■- - '^'••ll'-i*
■5 A.* V. '-r.- rr-i:.- *. -1 Mr y.rz: -11, •r-*n— i*^: »z«i M»rir *r.Ar. iir.;r -.•r: rr m*
Ikts ic ma: i^i-.:- ^'r^ -mii- 1: ♦ri--=-r^ir -.iri-ciai!. :c 5 I i^', i^i m j »-m-'*
< .*_• ".1 '!*-•* I. Ill ■*:• : ■ : ■^-**r Izi'i:!-".* I i-rr?^"i M :'•♦*** ^ '»jzif_* 11! -ii-?*?*!: I" ;i.*r.:*
Ki k." "*. -1* '"!..'-'. x;_:.r I XK ::i y.ri. ■ -ijix-.^ M»r 1 Mi*»*r 1: lz.ii.ir.* M-r.*^ "
> '.1. :.l.i.r^ i"_ 1 !:'• ^r"_j..r^ TV.-- k.i7r*?S "^-.M '.l-r »CJ-4 11 M-r?^ Ir.llj,r_-* ii
ly M.- T'l*. A--r; i..- '■ i-t" m> >=--jfjs x-w -^*2.. I i;i.: M-r i.r.-^-r^-. 'r ■:
TLi*?^ Xr-r i frX t ':.-r y. -=..? M^l i-" M-r -l-V.-r MJiS l^LlSCfl "nii Z^riZ, '1^' Tr^ iXiV
9D,Zl'Z.':ZiIr1':*^Z.' ".-• "•^ 1". . ?-"..*r .^ !•!.
" .*.* -I'xir ir? ■ ' ^-^ I- 1 .•-> i.-' I- ■■■■=■: •*■ ' t: ii-i-zrf v. m* t» z :'..i".:z. :i W-ii-
Uy»"?l Ml* ;:«1M". Mr _'.-■: ■!.■- ". ' :..* Cr i^— ^^ 1 iZl 1 M.*-! 12 MJ^r,' Mr>^ II l-iT-* *"-^
v/Mi*-:? 11.**... "r: .1-i-.-- :.•- i." '.-Ir: ,7. .-i-l.* i 1 .* k* i-lllll'.ili ^1 M-r ;•. : --ill I. li
i£*xi:-: Srtr .-. .-..•=- - ': i' . '•
"ri»*r«T IS '.Z'T :^t' ..'r •' .:"..i.r "i Mr lirT. -xr. }'.. -.c.i.-t.i is ijix- :r. M-tt: - mj," *i- «. :
^-i» ■"r-.*i:t>-i-: 1. .' :--•-. M-r f.*. " M-i" lr:i,.'.; k*. IE T.l-r [.Ir* I", l-i.".* ■■.'"r Xrr«T
V.r!! :r. Mri.'i iz. : : v * tr •*^i ir"*.* .f -t-T. • '..- -? "^- "r _- : ■.".r^
attim-c- - - i«* _5 J, i^-- -- -- - : >i ij,:f I IT. . ).r ..-» e^ J- : _!.-.• t-t ." j.»". :' r-j^ .1
tt:'** .1. -r-i 1;. r . i - . '.; :.>'tr-' i • .' -1 1...-- .-."■ ■;- >C.i.. ...: ..1 txrr-rr.'iy
■*!.•«?'*:- .-. I: lt .1 ■ - ".i.t." ".*.-• '■!.■ *y ..i -- ii^ .c • '.u-rir:^ III .: *;:i>:r.. I^
•■-'1.x " \ .s ..'' ' w' i y w - -r^Li. n*. -7 111: r-:^-?^: x-.-.- li- u,.-.-: r kz.-: ij****-
:«?-• : * 1 -• 11_-.-- -. ;•- i.r. : - .- r I-L*: l-r IJ-» i Ir* 1 Ir-l iJl : =1.1 »r:* ;*S1-"* V ijT.^.
T£ft»*t J- ijin- L.M .i-:! k* Ir -J,; * r... - i-f : m^-T :.:iii<*r -* i, 11.^11.-1*1: ir iticmi.-
HBrar." - !.:» M«?'l II i-. i* • •! 1 _."■'•• l-r r*f*T» V. TJl^ll U —rlkM-clr: H* a Mtlf-
"^inrr..:. ii:ii....i.- x-.-i -zr i_- -. : m-^ Jii-lu ii . i-i-ii*-:.: i..!iz.7 u x»^ v m*
KlTl'kApO'' irV. ' .C.i-l- HA .*.."• -jT Mr: IIAIV"- 1-r =rA".*f»
■ ■ Thl* -: - 1- - -.1 - I -. 1 .-. .-^* 1 - .' ' i- . -. - M-r - 1.1 1 ■ 1 a . 1 y t i^ .: . - ."1.11* 1 -. 7 -i^-irr : il Mi:«:«=.
13 wim zmz-\ •■•i^.T'^i M ioi^ ^. i^'-. .Moj II :jl:l, 1 1: :<£ i^.: .z. 7:e% ^7 ;fiik r ciier^ v.i£«:ci-
2194 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
(dee for the Indianfl; that when Captain McCalifif, of the United States, came to
remove these Indians he succeeded in cai>tiiring women and children and some old
men; that the younger men were off hunting, or awav; that every Kickapoo Indian
of those removed that is over 34 years old practically is a Mexican citizen, and is
entitled to his share of land and water in this Naciemento colony as a Mexican citi-
zen; that those women who have married Oklahoma Kickapoos are entitled to share
in this land; that as the Government of Mexico has never compelled these Indians
to conform to the law of the civil marriage, nor furnish the necessary facilities for
rendering this law effective, it could not bar the husband from residence in the colony;
that it could only recognize the marriaee as per custom."
He further expressed his opinion of tne matter as follows:
" If the Indians would engage a good lawyer, they could make their claims for lands
in the Naciemento colon v g(x>d. The mere fact of their having been removed by
force of arms to the United States does not make them United States citizens. If the^
had voluntarily removed there and voluntarily accepted United States citizenship, it
would be different, but as all has been done under compulsion and they have returned
at the earliest opportunity, they have in nowise *foreeone their rights."
In referrine to Mr. Bentley and Mr. Galan, he further said:
''That he has suspected that the getting of the Indians back here covered some
ulterior purpose in which lai^ siuns of money were involved; that men do not make
great expenditures usually simply from philanthropic purposes, but that there is some
motive and object by which they will make a great d^ more than is expended."
At another mterview with Rev. Mr. Andres, in referring to Mr. Bentley and Mr.
Galan, he said he looked upon these men as being without honor or principle.
Taking up again, and finally, the matters relating to the above-named deeds, the
proof is clear, airect, and positive that these Indians (grantors) were led to believe the
papers they were signing related to an exchange (or offer of) their lands in Oklahoma
for lands in Mexico, ana that each and all were in utter and entire ignorance of the
fact that said papers were deeds of sale and transfer. While giving their testimony
before the Mexican officials, several of these Indians stated very empluitically that they
had not sold their lands. Several asked the question whether (referring to papers
signed by them) they had sold their lands. These questions do not appear in tne tes-
timony, which was m the form of depositions, and to which the judge confined him-
self strictly. But from the manner of the witnesses and the line of questions which
were put to them, it was clearly and obviously apparent that these poor peoole had
been oasely deceived and completely and thoroughly imposed upon oy Mr. Bentley
and those who were aiding and abettmg this scheme to defraud these Indians. With-
out exception they all stated that the contents of the papers siened by them had not
been explained to them, and only in two cases — in Wahnahketna's and Noten*»— was
the amount named in their deeds made known to them. In Wahnahketha's case he
said he had not sold his land, but had proposed (or offered) by said paper to exchange
his land in Oklahoma for land in Mexico. Noten said that the document he signed
was in exchange for land in Mexico.
John Mine, whose name appears as interpreter on these deeds, according to Mr.
Bentley 's statement to me, is entirely unfit and unreliable, and it would be, to my
own certain knowledge, impossible for him to interpret these deeds.
The deeds of Okemah, Thithequa, his wife, and Wahnahketha and Tahpahthea,
are defective, under the Oklahoma laws, as to the acknowledgments, as above stated,
and although other deeds were substituted in the case of the first three, to cure defects,
I am satisfied beyond any doubt whatever that these three deeds (certified copies
herewith, indosures 23, 24. 25, 26, 27, 28) were never signed or acknowledged by the
said parties. Most certainly they could not have been signed and acknowledged on
March 7, 1905. If they were signed and acknowledged later, why was not the proper
dates inserted? The aeed of Wahnahketha was signed by himself and wife in their
camp near Muzouiz, and yet it purports to have been signed and acknowledged
before the Unitea States consul at Porfirio Diaz, Mexico, March 9, 1905. This deed,
under the Oklahoma kws, is defective, as were the others, in this, that the acknowl-
edgment recites that the grantors w^ere "identified" to the said United States consul
by Roman Galan and Tom Smith, of Muzc^uiz, Mexico, etc.
These Mexican Kickapoos, at Muzquiz, Mexico, are ignorant, illiterate, easily
imposed upon, and in no sense of the word can they be called competent to transact
the most ordinary affairs of busiiieHs. If there are any Indians anywhere that need
the fostering care and protection of our Govemmment, it certainly should be extended
to these.
That Mr. Bpntley has had, and has now, an undue influence over these Indians in
Mexico .^„ ^Mfciiily manifest to me (as I observed carefully his actions toward thepi)
in all his dealings with them, and on the other hand, there was an apparent dread or
AFIjl2x& &J the MZCilAS E2^£JkI*'y^ ^l^l^S^ii^ ±lii5
iar^AsxL «L<at(TKi cf liifiift IiiOiuLff Oil meimm zKoatuaam ^a fag rf Btnisirj' at
Aft jnr; :c i^ Vifn.7ff -rv ^''u,r:jT :i. ei'^MUot li zvr... Km* isz^w 'x Itct :f 'Uifox
tiEifti Hit '.:ik.i *:iii*7- ▼ -.nji 1 r^ -«: iifcr* i, iLIc via: i:* '.lu; "ui»tnr ▼«» liaat -s hfsir^
Vjll 'utt l.'C ;^: a*. •ru:i-''j::.*ti "..liU" }£>• i^«irui*7 itMsiiiiti ■-: ia"** ".itt iitiia^cffj :n«r
iaj*?t4^ li i.iLi'.it '.tilt It "uiit iiLfH; carjur hzxt "Lhcxzji •nr.i,.'i-^et j: auflrt^rettC'UMi'jL.
*L .TL '-ii* *j« • : :ot 1:. V It. Ill -.-.rii'j »'"..'.♦ u r*»:tjitti i-j LiiifLii*^ -.r vii: ii-.uo^ i tvl^ jf
^•jiurK.:: I .' j •- : ■ -■• ;. 'jl. x *?-.■ -i v.'iiitt^o :* jr k'JTuii'JC:::;; i.r ^Liit 7'-*7»".«t ic '.•'ira^Zf-
arts» T •■ ■..: .-. ui-vr l ir ^«^L; xj;!-*?*** t 1:11 i 'jTiu" b*. '''k::.Ui£!t 'ji t.'r.rui*»r §
j» V. -a*?»r.- ■ -uii*- i-r-T Li'---' •;■ x •:-.ii!»r«'T«-i : :- *-; a. ucunis latVH FittS I* ji "Lza-iut *:
'in-u?.* *■ ' ».-• ■ii.*;***;'. I "vH iii»':i:";.i:n. "JL*** :c *»jLi»Hit
1 J 1 :■ : i..-.* ■ i •• '-J. -b r.* loiii "i- •.\:i»r.Lij:«fr .r _ii ;• hlli-.c. TIj* j* i amt j fc'.T.Uil
«Ui<' '.c ■ '•. ■ -V* • ■; •?•. -1 ri ■. V '. ^ .r- ■ . *> 11. . •■... 7 i '.1 : v " 1 ji - -ir. 1: -.: ** ; •- ; -. t lii 1 i-i j : : -
TffKI.i-.r.il '.C V..I* -^k" -.1. r.-fc-..:
'»"ii*'-* Vj* 'sirii. ■- .* *'-^- -I. Li :r. i:;i-i ::l -.:* »^':;»*^ i.'-: .-.1 •: 11 --.iW i*i:u*'i.i-. v .i.^i iiai*
xsL'.'.tr I'.ir ■-.i • . i".ii ".i'. *i •'-»^*< i.:-: u..' ilik' V i:_i: \, • ■*■;»: -.c "^i*- r^^vr Z'ii\ i-.':--«:i*«
f^ o*;u.'.".;jr* V ■ ■. . '-e: ■- ;i -. :-■ •**.: ". :»*••>.••.;* :j.it '■-•tir'L x ait. '\ -in- 'JLti ii^'^i^rs -.c "uiit
m.iicii- ■ •: :• '.-• vi ■>-_ ir :»''--f ti v:-. *er-L* :: -.'••wk;- "i-ii* •»«:.*■•>. :c Lii*- •■ic'Lai'.r^.
•Ui*- -.-i.':'i - ■ •- -li'.-T^ i_ 1j- ■_•• •..::i»u--.- •*** X I."..' ■:u*4r li*: 1: •: iy'.**£Lr* 'Ji±r, -.04 lai*
T4-r.*^-. t . • • ■.i.i-r I -.1,* :•:•• ri--i-: -.i:.: ■.-j-.i'_ 1. iii* -.ruiiAT i: u-. ^ l ia-.-i :»Lri3-.-:
▼ iir*'-: ■ •-.' ■••.■: •-■ '1 L.">^ • v. • '.it r..**-. U-. r zii.n. viJiiT.!*;!* u: jrj-.)n-ii-.3t :r :• m
jr**^".*.ii' *•'• •**«::. "• ; .■• "r*- ■ '. 'T.'.-ri -i.'l "V.1 :■ 1: tr l-li. ■¥*»!.
'. -••«.::'• -•'" ::•-■'■. ■ • 'i-. _•-'.-.. -'.t -. -^ i:i< : ■•-.-:.■: 1 . r :* : c *..ii» jiLra*» •.-. c ■ltut^.-Ht
j0 ••*^v---. :'!i.- ^* ••.;.- i L i : . a.'; •• ■ r "" ■ > : ■ u- .'^ir.i.ii "m-.tu-i *jii'- '.r^iiw
till j-'i. -■■:'• V ■ : :':r'; r v*jtj: ii./ji. '. iii.*r ::.i» :iui» lt* '.-.•: irurj inbut ■-•*?: vri?'i
iBSL-r-.t' ■ I ■ : . - ■ ■ rT'.
JLVV.'.* 1..*.^ ' ■- - -rr_'j.(''*. - ".»:' *JL- I'J'l-L.".:* l-T-VV-.! ■^■* ZViX ■.!: l-L Ul :•! IL* r^-TS-
1*7- » Ilk" .111 ■• -'i. ■". .>; ".■- ' '-•-'- : '•-•!• -'.li- -'^.i^..: ji ' "-l: l-i-i :i*"..ij**: aI_ "^'* ■.•jr-
•rii".'.i*5.i ■■ ■— I.*.!- .' ■■i-.j ".;* •:. — ■. ' .:^- '^'. KjiTi—ia' X '-i-^f»«^ I**-*:.* •■; '..i-* 2zj'..ik^k'—
liii-';/ .-'■ '"L-.' t . :-..•■■-.-■ ■. • ■ I. --u*:--.;ui* ;■ c j.'-j.-*: '^■r ujii:sr b-"'k.::_-iif*
V. ■ '-i. ■ f . -^-"' -i - '
'.r: -A." --.A "^' • ■-.- • '-- -i.
v:i;.- ■:!...- : - • -
-..i V k.- •.:.-• ■ *-. -I -• •■:: I '-- -. -.1 ' . -• ". M* I.--: ill i :••.«▼ fr :t v-'iir^ ■
Tir ;. :■ V • . •..-.- I.' i" • . • '. I :-*-->:_u:-.- ' .t Ti:* r***rr4-
Ta:»i V L* :.£-..»■. . -.* ■ • ■ • : - * m --•■:■..: i«>; '1- vr 'jt'^z zz. t.*.7 *a^*
iit '. - '■ ••■: ■ .i -. • - • ■. - .- . : -I- ku;-* ' m ■ *. - hi- ■. : 11 :j»-.!:
r»i'-'" - ■ i'. ■: ■ i" .:■'■-■.■.-••:•: ii . -.• -l- -i^'' - v:iit::r:.o>::i»
ir •. ■.:i. ■' i ■ • • -»..':•■■ ;■'---:• I *i - £.: . -i'It T;-iJir."* :»-: ■.»i_7 v. rutr:
iKi-.'.'- •■ -I ■.--.• ■
J— •■•. • - ... - V .' i".. V -. •»* •■ .I'-T :-.ci.:nr fr-.c. *ti.i>i-fV7 TLiflrv.r'ji.T
- :•
•- Ui ii.'-. ■•''.::»'•: '.^'. '.'. vtzi^Oi-: -^.* zii.«r.
■ ■. ■— V
. : _'. "; . .■ : ."'.it'l.: *.»* "-.."r.! a-:: 1;. lit
. • ■.• i. -.
. :l:- ^-...Uj ■-. •: --irfw- _'^*r -..:::., i-,4. .*_r;^
-■' . ' J -
J L.:i --^ _:■ v: -'v ■:■: i-rp ii 'i*t: t^ul^-
' 'V
b • L- ■.:■: i.---r-..'-; :■ r v. *?«* Z-.i.a.*.:i :i;ii*
■ •' ■ .( * :-•■■'.- L' : r-a--: lm \:a.-. it
_■.■_-'■■'
■ • v^- -. ■• v. 1 M^ :.-r-:nur x 'Ji'iHi
- -X"."'.
. ■- - -Lv* L'-- t-v. : - ii* iL* k* •ui-:!*
'. ' I •■.."■■'
■: ■ ■ - . • . a,".i». Ii * ' ::-. *m.:-» ?.>':i-.r'.»
.'■*.■ •'
..•• ■ .-. • v^? n It-. -r..ur -^r :T;-:iai -.c
31#6 AFFAIRS OF THB MEXIGAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Beiitlejr and his Bflsociates, wholly irreeponflible men, which will in all human proba-
bility give the Indians, as well as the (Jovemment, untold trouble in the future. This
movement is along the same lines planned for these seven allotted KickapooB, and has
for its object, as in these cases, the emigration of laree numV)or8 of Indians of the South-
west, the ulterior motive and purpose being, aa in these eases, to secure the control and
sale of their lands in the United States by an exchange for lands in Mexico. The same
inducements are being held out to other Indians as were made to these Mexican Kicka-
poos, viz, freedom from all restraint in the way of hunting, drunkenness, or schools
tor their children. With the older Indians, especially, these inducements — that can
never be realized — are powerful. I respectfullv recommend that remedial legislation
be asked for, and that steps be taken at once i(X)king to Congressional action in this
matter, whereby the allotments of all Indians migrating to a foreign country for the
purpose of residence be canceled.
In my judgment this is the only way possible to checkmate this movement.
I also recommend that the Congress of tne United States be asked to rescind its action
in the matter of these seven Indian allottees, whereby the restrictions were removed
from the sale and conveyance of their allotments. As I understand, this legislation
was procured without the consent or sanction of the Department and should not be
allowed to stand. From beginnine to end fraud has been practiced in this matter, and
if allowed to stand the Indians will be the great sufferers.
I also earnestly and respectfully recommend that immediate steps be taken, through
proper channels, to invoke the aid of the law in behalf of these seven Indian allottees,
ancl for their protection, and that Mr. Martin J. Bentley be prosecuted both civilly
and criminally for his fraudulent methods, undue influence, and imposition upon
these Indians.
In the communication herewith of the Shawnee Townsite C/ompany (Inclosure 42),
dated September 7, 1905, it is claimed that the membeps of this company were inno-
cent purchasers. I have reason to believe that two of the men of said company, viz,
George Patchin and D. N. Kennedy, were not innocent purchasers, but were the
promoters of this company. As to whether these parties were "innocent purchasers"
or not, is a question of fact to be determined upon proper inquiry. Twenty- two
thousand five hundred dollars has been paid in cash by this company to W. W. Ives
(Ives informed this company that he haa paid $13,000 over to Bentley as attorney for
grantors), on account of allotments of Oke mah and Thithequah, his wife. There is
still $16,500 due from this company, and the officers of the same expressed themselves
as willing to pay this balance to the Indians rather than lose the land or the paymenti*
they have made on the same.
Very respectfully, Chas. H. Dickson,
SupervUor.
Exhibit No. 119 [Goode].
Office of the Unfted States Attorney,
District of Oklahoma,
Guthrie, June t4y 1905,
Mr. Charles H. Dickson,
Superviior of Indian Schools, care of American Ambassador,
United States Embassy, City of Mexico, Mexico.
Sir: Pursuant to a request of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, I write you in
regard to the evidence desirable for the setting aside of the deeds to the seven Kicka-
poo allotments allotted near Shawnee, Okla., in favor of Martin J. Bentley.
Under a provision approved March 3, 1905, in the Indian appropriation act, the
restrictions upon allottees as to these lands were removed. Those landn at that time
were extremely valuable and had been extremely valuable for at k^ast two years.
The Kickapoo allottees to whom those lands belong, it is understood, were induced to
go to Mexico by Hentley and others telling them fairy stories of the conditions in
Mexico and picturing the freedom that they would have there as compared to that
they could enjoy in tne United States and the prosperity that would be ahead of them
as compared to that they could have in the United States, and further telling them of
unfavorable and untrue stories as to the discipline enforced upon the Kickapoos and
other Indians in Oklahoma since they had left Oklahoma, ancl giving them to under-
stand that the lands were not of great value, or certainly not of the value which in fact
at that time they bore, and that he would give more for their lands than any other
person or persons would give and would treat them more honestly in making pay-
ments than any other person would treat them; that Government officials encoun^^ed
him to fo there and make the offer lor these lands upon the theory and understancnng
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2197
that he was ofiFering, as a Mend to the Indiana, more for the lands than any other per-
son would be willing to giveior them, and that their beet friends in the United States
thou^t thev ought not return to the United States, but should take their money and
remam in Mexico.
What of these statements are true and what other statemente are true I am in no posi-
tion to say, but I think you should examine those people with such an interpreter as
you can thoroughly depend upon to give you an absolutely true interpretation and to
give them a true unbiased interpretation of all you may say to them.
Find what induced these Kicxapoos to go to Mexico. Find what statemente were
made, and by whom, to those Indians as to the value of those lands about Shawnee
about the time the negotiations for the sale were made and at the time the deeds were
signed.
Find what statement was made by Bentley to those Indians as to the amount of
monev he was to pay them for those lands, and whether it was to be in Mexican money
or in American money, and if in Mexican money, whether it was to be in Mexican gold
or sif^ttr or paper, and if not in money, whetner it was to be in exchange d other
prop»My; if so, what was its value at the time and what is its present value. Find
whe^Mr the Indians are still contented and satisfied with the sales. Find whiub, in
factf has been paid b^r Bentley and others to each of these personn, and if property,
find Hie vaJue, condition, and location at the time it was transferred to the Ilraians,
and what has become of it since. Find what, if any, statement was made -to the
Indians as to their right to sell this land to any person, and whether thev were noti-
fied at the time they made the deeds that Congress had, or shortly would, give them
the right to sell without restriction.
The examination will need to be made with great care and will need to be conducted
through interpreters that can not be bought or misled, and who are men in whom the
Indians have confidence. The evidence should be written out in full and signed by
the men, and then should be sworn to before a proper officer of the locality.
(Jet all other information of every character which will aid in ascertaining the truth
of the whole transaction. Upon the coming in of this information I believe we will be
in a condition to know whetner these conveyances ought to stand or not.
Very respectfully,
Horace Speed,
United States Attorney.
Exhibit No. 120 [Goode].
American Embassy,
Mexico^ July 15, 1905,
Mr. Charles H. Dickson,
Supervisor of Indian Schools at Alhuquerqyjs, N, Mex.
Sib: Under instruction of the Department of State to render you all possible assist-
ance in prosecuting the investigations which brought you to Mexico, and at your
request, I have procured the inclosed private letter from the minister for foreign a^drs,
introducing you to the governor of the State of Coahuila.
If I can further assist you, kindly inform m
Kespectfully, yours, E. H. Conger.
Exhibit No. 121 [Goode].
Saltillo, Mexico, July 17, 1905.
Letter of introduction from the minister of foreign relations of Mexico, stating that
Mr. Dickson was sent to look into the habits, customs, etc., of the Indians, and request-
ing the governor of Coahuila to give him every assistance within the law in his power,
and to assure the safety of his person, etc., was presented this a. m. to the governor,
who received Mr. Dickson and placed himself at his orders. He stated that he had
received details of the business on which Mr. Dickson is engaged from the department
of foreign relations, and at Mr. Dickson's request promised letters to the president of
the municipality of Monclova and Muzquiz, recommending them to facilitate his inves-
tigation, also to the Juez de Letras at Monclova, to enable the examination, if necessary,
of the records.
On being asked as to how the Mexican authorities regarded these Kickopoo Indians
and others, Governor Cardenas stated that those who had been here a long while were
ooomdered to be Mexican citizens, but that those who had come more recently were
reffMded as of the United States; that the Mexican authorities vve.Nv^d \\\^ ^V>\!^ ^'
these Indian colonies with much disfavor, as their eettAercveivX., \i «v\e\v \>c\«>j CLwW\i!^
Called; were a menace to the peace of the State*, they \iad n^Net «eX>Aa^ Vi ^^^>\s^
2198 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXIOAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
roamed the northern portion of the State at laige, shooting game, etc. In the earlier
days this had small e^ct, hut now there was an endeavor to keep them to their own
grounds, but this was difficult, as proprietors of land would give them permission to go
hunt game and they would wander on. He said tliat the land on which they had been
origiimlly settled was some of the best agricultural land in the State, being in the valley
of a Isjie river and controlling the sources of water, so that irrigation was easily
airanffea. Other groimd was suitable for stock raising. To neither of these avocations
would the Indians dedicate themselves, but would only seek game.
These Indians were vicious in their habits, drunken and troublesome, and that the
State would most gladly be rid of them, as they were no benefit, but, on the contrary,
a detriment. Last year there was a fresh arrival, and they were so heavily armed and
such a nuisance that the Federal authorities were requested to aid the State to disarm
them. This was started, but on further consideration it was seen that it might bring
about serious trouble, so it was decided to do this little by little. The newer smivals
are heavily armed, have money, and at times practically take the town of Villa Muz-
quiz, get arunk, and are very troublesome.
The governor said that he would take up with the Federal authorities the matter of
gettinff Uioee of the Indians who may be American citizens removed by arrangements
with me United States. On the whole, he said he would be most pleased to make a
present to the United States of the whole lot, United States Indians as well as those
considered as Mexicans.
Saltillo, Mexico, July 18, 1905.
Two letters having been received from the governor of Coahuila, one to the president
of Muzquiz and the other to the Juez de Letras at Monclova, the contents being trans-
lated, it appeared as though there would not be sufficient to enable the authorities to
aJl the persons desired and take their testimony under oath; hence the eovemor was
called on a^in this morning, and it was explained that the matt(T woula require tes-
timony under oath by the instructions of the attorney of the United States for the
Territory of Oklahoma. The reason the matter was not mentioned yesterday at the
interview had with the governor was that the presumption of the matter being men-
tioned in the dispatches to him, and hence that ne would do what was necessary. This
not being so, he was now appealed to in order that he might insuo such instructions as
were needful, seeing that the question related to a suspected fraud perpetrated against
certain Indians ana the United States Government.
The governor stated that in his dispatches such a matter had been mentioned, but
so indefinitely and uncertainly that as it was not touched on in the conversation yes-
terday he haa not considered it needful to specially mention it in \iw> letu rs. How-
ever, he would send fresh letters covering the matter and instructing the local authori-
ties to do what was required in the matter. Asking whet he r the testimony desired
was that of the Indians in the settlement or of those recently arrived, who were on
private property, it was stated that very probably the testimony of those in the settle-
ment as well as those who had come recently would be required.
The governor explainc«d that the recent immigrants were of such an obnoxious char-
acter that he had to order them removed from among the settlers (Nacimiento colony)
and tell them that they must find other lands or return whence they came. So this
last importation, about two hundred, hired or leased some land near Muzquiz, and
nominally were settled upon it. He said that thc>y brought over good horses, money,
and modern weapons of lon^ ranee and precision, and having money had friencfs,
that he requested that if possible they be induced to return, as they were most unde-
sirable; that the armed force of the State was too small to control them properly, and
that the Federal forces could not properly act in a matter that was really one of State
police.
Sai/tillo, Mbxico, July 20, 1905.
Exhibit No. 122 [Goode].
Salth^lo, July 17 y 1905.
Mr. Licenciate Francisco Valdes Llano, Monclova.
Very esteemed Comtanion .wd Friknd: The bearer of this, Mr. Charles H.
Dickson, will go to see you on hit* way to Muz(|uiz. whither he goes with the purpose
of studying the customs of the Indian racen that exist there and of acquiring all classes
of information coiuerning them.
Mr. Dickson has been recommended to nie very especially by the minister of foreini
relations, Lie. D. Ignacio Mariseal. and as for the realization of his purposes, he nec^s
the reports and data that may be found in the archives, 1 pennit myself to reouest
that you will extend to him your fine courtesy and valual)le assistance in everything
ArrAMMS am the mxicLur kickafoo lamAss. S199
ZBBT1
Exmxrr Xo. 123 [Gwsde].
Ml vbS Iflud ids. j(31 i&e 9cj!part afttgjBMry is crt&cr datst ht izay doSj ^X'trtve* «iiv:^
Mr. DcptrtT L. Ai^nrro GrjjAZzio.
/^ricriidntSf fir . JftiSffwiz
Mt EFTEnfn- FiC2.50 Ti* l*?a«r uf iii». 3ij. CUtEr)** H. Di^iocaL go« to j'.fnr
Mad ill- lyiiks:^ ii e-.*rr irfcT lino; i: t* yiasLi'jil fEna^oiip inn imuiiJij aufl TiifcV
I jcr.-i-T^hni*- v.- j'.ni ilt ^rrtii:: "i:* kiti ei^mat wji^ y-usr *£*t:ia'j(EKfc>> is^^azA iztd
iHDfii^le- i«-« iJL'! .
Mr. l^ririj L Ai^Ijwo GTi^Aii*:
Kferrii^r *.'. t ;»r'-..:. 1 -. 7 a ^ j'' - .- : .c :>.:- . -. rv ii«eiifl2rtciit->:^"i . iiizi "riJisataic: \t k
X*C2=Li*'LX: :x Li*t: f-r r7 tr_ : h-'.-r^.-r^z ir-.-iL -Jiit I-i-ritu'i* — US-. njipci'jft szii M'-i*i.».-
f*e»-^ jr-.r..*^. bci^jiis; n^t f-r-» rv ^-rtJifeiitii i.ir:,rjgi, Fioiieii. AjjU**- yf Uie <ar..^viiac
2200 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Later, A. E. Noble owed money to parties in San Antonio, Tex. , on promissory notea,
a judgment was obtained a6:ainst him in the courts in San Antonio, and on the evi-
dence and judgment an order of ^'embaii^" attachment was obtained in the court
here of these Nacimiento lands. The Indians made a representation to the secretary
of Fomento, who in turn, throueh proper channels, notified the governor of the State
that the "embargo" was not valid, as the land was Federal property, in possession of
these Indians as colonists, and that A. E. Noble had no title in said lands.
In the record of transfers, which was thoroughly examined, there is no note of prop-
erty transferred to Mr. Bentley nor to any of those who seemed to have been associated
with him, nor any transfers from Mr. Bentley and others to any Indians. The secre-
tary, Carlos Rios, has carefully catalogued the archives, beginning with the year 1704,
ana has had charge of the office since 1891, and he states that he has found no record of
title in favor of any Indian.
In regard to the matter of a legal inquiry, the secretary advised that the court would
be ready at any time to take tne steps needful; that such steps should be initiated
here ana authority issued to the courts at Muzquiz, as they did not have the jurisdic-
tion in such cases. He suggested that the matter should be deferred until we had
reached Muzquiz and obtain the names of the parties who were to be examined, so that
all would be m due form.
MoNCLOVA, CoAH., MEXICO, July fi, 1905,
Jud^e Francisco Valdez Llano returned to Monclova and immediately notified
Mr. Dickson of his being in his judicial office. Mr. Dickson and Mr. Wheatley called
upon him and he approved the suggestions made by the secretary of the court. He
suggested that a petition be drawn up in regiilar form and presented to him for such
BUgKestions as he deemed proper to make. This petition was prepared and presented
to Judge Llano, who approved the same with certain minor cnanges. He expressed
himself as willing and desirous to aid us in the prosecution of our work.
Exhibit No. 127 [Goode].
American Hotel,
Loi Esperaruas't Coah., Mexico, August 21, 1905.
Chas; H. Dickson, Esq.
Dear Sir: In reply to your request I have to sav that I was present at our first
meeting with Mr. L. Alberto Guajardo, president oi Muzquiz, and heard him make
the statement that Mr. M. J. Bentley, accompanied by Lie. Elizondo, a lawyer of
the same place, came to his residence and there offerea him (the president) a bribe
if he would, in his official capacity, make a report favorable to the settlement of the
Kickapoo Indians in the Feaeral colony of the Nacimiento. The president ordered
them irom his house and told them any further business they might have must be
discussed before witnesses at the presidencia.
Yours, respectfully, Arthur 0. Wheatlbt.
Exhibit No. 128 [Goode].
American Embassy, Mexico, August 3, 1905.
Charles H. Dickson, Esq.,
Villa Muzquiz, Coahuila.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th ultimo and your
communication of the 30th ultimo and inclosure, complaining of the action of the vice-
consul at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz.
In view of your statements, I have requested the vice-consul to make an explanation
of his course.
Respectfully, yours, E. H. Conger.
Memorandum of conference held this morning, July 30, 1905, between Sr. L. Alberto
Guajardo, prcHidente, Muzquiz, Mexico, and Charles H. Dickson, supervisor Indian
schools, Mr. Arthur C. Wheatley being present as interpreter.
The presidente of Muzquiz having been asked if Bentley had obtained the inter-
vention of the United States consulate at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, toward his release from
ditontion. in reply said: **Yes: Mr. Bentley telegraphed to the vice-consul at Por-
tjii<i Diaz, will) came on here, saw Mr. Guajardo, the presidente, and requested hit
Amms or the mcncAW kickafoo lanxoaL 1901
b itteBilBsaL JDkgvf 4«i«s tibit be v» iK?^^^
CiiBifl m Off mie. aod lft« be jte» iad s iBct <fitf Ivki ailHH^
'— Mil iFMigj to j«ig— p bin befkr? ^emcMi aitihai hwMm Urn f ttoirffg »»fe^feacmMBL.
Mr. BcBitSej Bo^d «bcM Ibif ynm&aasm nbat be* boM «9 affltoBd te> 4bie flipBB&f <«€ spvBri
» ibsBd. bdoi^ tSisK Jirfiriaiid br tbs- pnndeiBiP t^^
e -iPmM seoS biiB tritikoB a 4i^ « tvPQu Tbg jppea6egag k adiMrf tot be §Km
I do Lug Fjyww'jyiaaR, a .caifl-aniBngig thwriL aa«8 JWBm Ibeee be bag |
. ▼bcve be ^vsnM taks a tam fer ibe r^Htetfl SftjdaE.
ribsu a Mexnm aad a partiKr tf Bcns^ sd aE Sbir i^
, biS bae 2^201? ts> Oid^iboBDa. aaid bar 'irsaVMS
ClbefaftlWi»»^fl««Bbiita»ierftbefBaten)ggaMadebyf^^^
Hml. el K. 09aK(CSB,
Dbab fio: B^ariiiiig tte mx aenaer <tf «Kb iaa— l fmar yaa, nbdcC,*!
Cf BIW til^EKB ia «aBEBfir!tasa Viib 3BT IBViefll^^
baK % 'flP&r <s^ ibe pfjsacsitfci. ibe ^iBtia^
«nr. dvcms^ 9be«&rfeiaB4 iweKsikl aaeKiniwifi ^ ibe Tiriri riMiil ai dnftii^ PsiMa
lite. Mr. '^fsxAker w raleaKd. aatd if msm m JOiafj. jyibnasb ba ]
ptemHenut heat ms*, %» Msarvm tbEt- v.ninL at be wnM te waaaai bj iba j
I iaeSsiK 7911 bawjiib a "luamarMiABiB* cf a 'OcadanBoe |MI bcb§
arioSb fir. L. JtJb^sn6> Gns^ardft. sr«si6«zx!«:. Spbb vbidb b ▼!& be aHB «i
iffumq^l aiftn^ sHnsenL aaud sa trirw- OTiaMqpfy^ ^gif nmd bic isiSeBS pwwi^T-»!P ikss <
iiB3b«r bif cnrs pcBanm^ emSf latd fxaaa. but to •icdoiC tbe -vaeij 'fi^ffcs loiS purpaat^
ifiuf mytyagtcitr.qL said tber^^nr idmeu aba «Mii 4tf jwtioeL
ti ma iLj fiot'ja^ ii^cr ^^ ^ *^4kri& iicaxossftf' Mr.. B^a/^tj and alb& b» asKnae.
, BfSBEBt 'QaliiaL ai i&ar ^(b(Y».
Tkv9B|ii tbe -eSarts ^ n Uirsifid fnjutioi ^gfidaL bg«pr««c b aapv awuia infir&abfie
das I ▼ait tic? -i^^ v^ ^^^Bm^ ibt- yi-adence ^ Mr. Bsadejr. aad <jafaa bae mbKoemi
acliEBi 311 iki% jnmdfftt at jxxE ibfell &eB 1^
C^aataa <MWtav JaMMB SflmaiL
Kygygrr T^o 221 p&tacrfe>
Y^tei ■wyitf'^'' iif ibe yyrfr'tfgA:' iliaiO^ iHriid Inr '£b( F«teakl GytqjMutgg -t^ Mex9c& far
tftas as nxvT tit- sod Tlt»7 •:r:n^«^ ii*afir^TaJ2 cf ibe StsSie tf O-ateiai. Jki ibelaizK' :f ibe
anaaxoeii t^ traaKiEL itKxr^ ^uiiW itzoSt 'K^epc- ^sibeafted asid ibr:«a^ ^jf«L i£; ^eai;>L2Ki»-
wuBOi lad. mjft tj t^ ^>.n ^nrsiear:. IiAcr. uritfo: ft-der itm iifSbis fita.^«>wftieA. iba
fand^ -a>eR' luDi^fPfid ^: ^iirwtr n^i punofiioL tf «Liiufr tf i^ ^ma&i^ ibat svBxaaaed. tait
aeon- 2t'.»i ikla'.<v«id v^ ii^ifiin isujfli avusd ^ fbe GcPBamasi vbSe &e laa^ wwt
anitizuMid
JLiii:iiip'^[fWt!bak6f'P<«<f 4«SDL.tf ur :".16$44at3<eE.afl£x&%eBBf 4.JK.llaic9Br #ba4
aa xiif- iiOfd i^ liii*' aai^imf Bi-ns-. -riz^rf- |7ea3 ^yiiynp \Bmk 'om.. Tbe boid s Scsstfla
aeniaissniF *.c 'uLcr Mtxatao^ ^'.kE^:«aE. irb: srcnr^ usT&tfffx M*xao& aad :MiiiiTb wvH Ttsaa
2202 AFFAIRS OF THE MKXICAK KICKAPOO INDIANS.
A few years ago the Sanchez Navarro sold, through a representative, 10 sitios to Mr.
A. E. Noble, an American, but very curiously in tiie deed itself it is recorded that the
Sanchez Navarros would not guarantee to the purchaser the possession of the 4 sitios
in possession of the Kickapoos and Muskogee Indians at Nacimiento, nor ^arantee
the water. So practically all that Noble really bought was 6 sitios of land with inter-
mediate boundaries. Later an action was bruught by the San Antonio Stock Yards
Association and A. E. Young, of San Antonio, Tex., against said Noble for pa>rment
of notes already due. In the San Antonio court the judgment was for plaintiffs
and the record and judgment was forwarded to the Mexican court of jurisdiction at
Monclova, who confirmed the judgment of the San Antonio court and ordered attach-
ment of the lauds at Nacimiento. Then the Indians of the Nacimiento colony
appealed to the minister of encouragement and colonization, who by a dispatch to
the judge at Monclova advised that no writ of the court could be enforcea aeainst
these lands, as the title was vested in the Federal Government, and that Mr. Noble
did not have, nor at any time had, any title in these lands. It is also said that the
fomento has since ceded some lands to Mr. Noble, in lieu of the 10 sitios to which
he was entitled, in some other part of the State. This last information is somewhat
uucertaiuft The sale was brought about through the intermediary of J. Willetle, who
is dead.
At this Nacimiento colony are some 250 Kickapoos and about 300 Muskogees, and
three or four Seminoles. The Muskogees (negro naif breeds) and Seminoles are the
best farmers and plant the larger area, but they run into debt and sell the crops in
advance, hence are always destitute. The Kickapoos do not raise as laree acreage,
but what they do raise they hold for their own maintenance. The colonists had
made a practice of leasing out the water rights at |15 per annum for each day's waters.
Mexicans and others went in there and there were over 400 hectares (nearlv a thousand
acres) in cultivation. The colonists loaned and spent the money, and when this was
gone had a pretty hard time. The Government ordered the Mexican renters to be
expelled; that no others than the colonists be admitted; that these latter should per-
sonally reside in the colony and cultivate their lands.
In the CTeat register of properties for the district of Monclova no record appears of
any transfer of land to Bentley or others in this section, except the transfer by Sada,
as representing the Sanchez Navarro, to A. E. Noble, being the sale brought about
by John Willette.
ExHiBrr No. 130 [Goode].
Examination of Kickapoo Indians at their camp near Muzquiz, Mexico, on Sunday,
July 23, 1905, upon matters relating to the purported sales of their lands in Okla-
homa. Present at said examination: Hon. L. Alberto Guajardo, Chas. H. Dickson,
supervisor, and Arthur G. Wheatley, Spanish interpreter and acting secretary.
Examination of Kish ke nic quote, his wife being present:
Asked if they owned land near Shawnee, Okla., he replied, yes, that they did.
Asked how much land, he replied, 80 acres. Asked if ne had disposed of it, he
answered, yes. Asked how he disposed of it, he stated that he went to Eajsde Pass
and that he gave the land so he could live in Mexico. Asked how much he was to be
paid for the land, he replied that he was to receive $300. Asked where he signed the
papers, he replied in hagle Pass. Asked from whom is he to receive the money, he
repliecl that he supposed from Mr. Thackery. Asked who sold the land for him, he
said Mr. Bentley did, but that he had told Mr. Bentley he could do what he liked
with the land. Asked if he eave Mr. Beptley any paper or power of attorney to sell
the land, he stated in reply that he had signed some papers for Mr. Bentley, but does
not know what they were. Asked again if he rememoered what he was to receive
for the land, he stated that so he would be enabled to stay in Mexico he told Mr.
Bentley he could do what he liked with the land. Asked how much money he had
received from Mr. Bentley on account of the land, he stated a few doUarH; that there
was no agreement sis to what he was to receive; that it wa« a trade or exchange of his
land in Oklahoma for suitable land in Mexico; that was the reason lie was waiting
here till they found suitable land in Mexico. He was asked, aH he Haid he had received
money, from whom did he receive it; he stated that he received it from Mr. Bentley,
but that he had traded the land near Shawnee for land in Mexico, which to date they
have not f(»und nor received. Asked if he knew the value of the laud uear Shawnee
at the time the trade was made, he stated that he did not know the value. Asiked
if the land was closp to Shawnee City, he said it was about 2 miles off toward the
north of Shawnee (^ity. Asked if he had received any land as yvl in Mexico in
exchange for his Oklahoma land, he said that as yet he had not received any land from
#
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS. 2203
any penon. Asked if they had received any paper from Mr. Bentley relative to tlie
exchange of the lands^ he replied that as yet he had received no such paper, but
Mr. Bentley had promised to eive him one soon. Asked as to what representations
were made, if any, regarding his right to diB{)06e of the allotment land, he replied
I hat no representations were made; he wanted to (!ome t^ Mexico and askccl Mr.
Bentley to arrange the sale. The allotment was b>r inheritance, not by direct assign-
ment. It was hiB daughter's allotment. Asked if he was contentea and satisfied
with their condition in Mexico, he replied that he was happy and contented as ho
could go hunting and do as he pleased.
Examination' of O ke mah, his wife being present:
Asked if he owned either in his own right or by inheritance an>r land near Shawnee, he
replied, yes. Asked how much, he replied, 80 acres, by inheritance by his daughter.
Asked if he had made any disposal of this land, ho replied, yes. Asked where he
signed the deed, he replied, here in Muzquiz. Before what officer? He replied,
before Mr. Roman Galan, that Mr. Thackery had written to Mr. Roman Galan to have
O ke mah sign the deed. He did not see the letter, but Mr. Roman Galan told him
he had the letter. Asked as to what price was he to get for the land, he replied,
$L,202. Asked whether he had received the money, he replied that he went to
SShawnee and received the money in paper and in two silver dollars from the hands
of Mr. Thackery's clerk at Shawnee. Asked as to what was this money for, he replied
for his daughter's land. Mr. Thackery asked him while there if he was satisfied to
receive this money and he replied that he was. Asked whether he knew to whom
the land was deeaed^ he saia that he did not know. Asked whether Mr. Bentley
had anything to do with his receiving this money, he said, no. Asked as to the allot-
ment of himself and wife, he repliea that he had made a deed at Eagle Pass for his
own allotment, but does not know for what consideration; that no one explained to
him anything about the value of the land nor the contents of the paper. Asked
whether they had received payment for these allotments, he replied that he had not
received payment nor any part of it. Asked if Mr. Bentley said anything to him at
the time that O ke mah signed this paper relative to the value of the land, he answered,
nu, Mr. Bentley did not. He was asked whether he was to receive land in Mexico
or money for the allotments, he replied that he was to receive land in Mexico in
exchange, but has not received any yet. Asked whether he had any document
showing the agreement regarding the exchange of his allotment in Oklahoma for land
in Mexico, he replied, no, he had no paper of any kind regarding this trade.
' Examination of "Ne con ^o pit, his wife being present:
He was asked as to whether he had any allotments near Shawnee, he replied yes; 80
acres. Asked whether he had disposed of this land, he replied no. Asked whether he
had signed any papers relative to these lands, he replied no, he had signed no papers;
he turned the lana over to Mr. Bentley and told him to do as he pleased with it, but he
signed no paper; that he wanted land in Mexico, which Mr. Bentley was to arrange for
him ; Mr. Bentley promised to trade the allotment for land in Mexico. He has received
no money for the lands; does not know what the lands may be worth near Shawnee;
Mr. Bentley never informed him what they were worth. Asked if he had received any
land in Mexico, he replied that he had not yet received any land. Asked if he had
received any paper whatever from Mr. Bentley proving the agreement to give him
land in Mexico, he replied that he had received no paper. He was asked whether
Mr. Bentley had promised him any paper, and he said no, Mr. Bentley had not prom-
ised to give him any paper. Asked what he would do if Mr. Bentley did not give him
any land or money, he replied that Mr. Bentley would be sure to give him land as soon
as his land was sold.
Examination of Wah nah ke tha haii, his wife 1 eing pret^ent:
He was asked what induced him to come to Mexico. He replied that he wanted to
get back to the old times, so he could do as he liked and not have to send his children
to school, and that was what induced him to come to Mexico. Asked whether he
owned an allotment near Shawnee, he replied yes; somewhere thoivabouts. Asked
whether he had signed any paper authorizing the sale, he repli^nl that he had turned
the land over to Mr. Bentley to apply for the sale. Asked whether he had signed utiv
paper, he replied no. Asked whether anyone had ever told him of the value of his
land and what it was worth, he replied no, that no one had ever told him what it was
worth. He was asked whether Mr. Bentlev ever told him what the hnul nuirlu l)rin«^
him, he replied no, Mr. Bentley did not tell him anything a^ to the \;»lue <»i the land.
He was asked whether he was quite sure that he had never siijnetl unv paper lelativo
to this land, he replied, yes, he signed a paper. \Vu^ ui?ked \vUellv<i^ Wx^vcv^xs^^^^^
2204 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
what that paper was, he replied that all he knows is that he sifiped a paper for Bentley,
as he supposed, relating to trading off of his land for land in Mexico. Asked whether
Mr. Bentley gave him a copy of tbis paper, he replied no^ he did not. He was asked
whether he received any money from Mr. Bentley for this land, or on account of the
sale of this land, he replied no, he had not received any money; as he understood the
arrangement, he would receive land in Mexico. He did not understand that he would
receive money ; he turned the land over to Mr. Bentley to have land in Mexico. Asked
where he signed the paper, he replied in Eaffle Pass. Asked whether he remembered
eoing before any person to sign the paper, ne replied that he remembered of no one
being there but mr. Bentley when he signed the paper, and that Mr. Bentley did not
explain the contents of the paper, nor was it interpreted to him by anyone. Asked
whether he remembered the date, he said that he did not remember the date. Asked
whether Mr. Bentley told him that Congress had passed a law allowing him to sell his
allotment, he replied that Bentley did not tell him anything about this. Asked
whether he had received any land from Bentley, he said as yet he had not received
land from anyone.
Examination of No tbn:
Asked whether he had any land in Oklahoma, he replied yes; he had land near
McLoud. Asked whether any arrangement had been maae to sell this land, he replied
yes. Adced what was this arran^ment, he replied the land in Oklahoma was to be
sold and he was to receive land m Mexico in exchange, same as the other Indians.
Asked how much land he had, he replied, 80 acres. Asked whether he had made
any papers authorizing the sale of his land, he replied that about March 13, in Eagle
Pass, he signed a paper relating as he supposed to the sale of the land and at the time
he signed me paper ne received 200 Mexican dollars; he received the money at Bon-
net's bank at Eagle Pass. Asked how he got the money from the bank, he replied
that he took to the bank a check that Mr. Bentley had nven him, and the bank took
the check and gave him the money. Asked whether ne knew how much the land
was worth or whether Mr. Bentley had told him of its value, he replied no. Asked
whether he knew how much the paper or deed said the land was wortn, he replied that
Mr. Bentley did not tell him anything contained in that paper. Asked as to the
arrangement he had with Mr. Bentley, he replied that Mr. Bentley was t^ sell this
land and give him land in Mexico, as he did not want to live in Oklahoma, but to be
where he could go to the mountains and hunt. He (No ten) wants Bentley to do as
he has promised to do. Asked whether Mr. Bentley had refused to comply with his
agreement, he replied no, but he wanted Mr. Bentley to help us get our land. Asked
whether Mr. Bentley had told him that Coneress haa passecl a law by which he could
sell his land, he replied yes, that Mr. Bentley told him he could sell his land. He
said diat his land was leased; on the first lease he received $50 per year; this lease
was made under Bentley; the second lease was $136 per year; this was under Mr.
Thackery. He drew the lease money himself.
ExHinrr No. 131 [Goode].
Certified copy of the proceedings of voluntary jurisdiction promoted by Mr. C. H.
Dickson with date 26 July of 1906.
MoNCLOVA Coup, 19th August of 1906,
The citizen licentiate Francis Vald^s Llano, first judge of letters of the district of
Monclova, State of Coahuila, of Zaragoza, certifies that in the proceedings of voluntary
jurisdiction promoted by Mi. C. H. Dickson there are found the following evidence
(on the margin the stamps required by law duly canceled):
To the honorable first judge of letter, Monclova:
The subscriber, resident of the United States, and charged with a commission of the
Government of the United States, respectfuUy appears before you and makes known
that for the elucidation of certain facts connected with the movement of the Kickapoo
Indians from the Territory of Oklahoma and their pretension of having required land
in this country he needs to have a sworn judicial information relative to tne manage-
ment and conduct of Martin J. Bentley, who was Indian aeent, as with the Grovemment
of the United States and the said Kickapoo Indians. Mr. Bentley is here and some
of the Indians interested are resident on lands belonging to the jurisdiction of this
presidency. He therefore prays that a competent judge of this town be empowered
to cite and. under solemn oath, cause Mr. Martin J. Bentley to declare and answer the
questions that are incorporated in this instrument:
1. Let him state his general civil condition and occupation.
Awrjom €m the meocas kkkaiuo fSMAJOL ijp^j^i
C Lcc 1B& JE«ev»si«rkaiaiic ft ibs tads 'i&tiixaB^ f
; fQ3L '«& j^^ ft ^BKutuieag. muaesfi ks mat ywfgitj ciisifi r>t u.c
7. ljtK,9ammMmimeEsua^wmmesJt^wrka^imM.*M^
mi£ firthaffff v kow if ^lbzl. imGUKmuesSft iL ti* dnft i£ cam. iraipaft,. cKi. xl .ri«*r
Ht lee MBft &tf«»: 9^«sa«!r s^ aam sx &ui^ ia«!Mr £Jdbi^A Iiig anit :r «iii* f£ ^ii«^iL.
"^■C :£ ^f^ WJTLxt 'tSIBKr Hi^ Xc^a!.'; laev ^Jidi aiULC CSULCUii JOiS £»C ^TliUL ftBbt ;«llkC
II. Let in flKft v:x«fS2Aa' J«: ias «KaiiEi^t ^iufaft girifan> a. 'suax -gjpuLic-t Sir
4i^ cooHCSiEMfi ftasaccz2«i if sr.ca. trinanr-j**.
13L Lcs 2IIIL mMUt vm«Ea«r b* luit iix 'tiki naorj vt iMtum, 1im§w» tia( ie vuiJc nrj
dbeab 'baaA. -na^ '•^ijffj *jrjiJ± lan *: Jk ^^i^^cur pji»'.% ir ii.tm*:
Si. liS iTTTL fEaciir nffSk^ hjk imt luft^ '»n<k joaaj^ ii zsktattt TiiftMiFffanitC aoHit^ rm
C LtfS Tiyp flsas^ isft ftmuisxa ^s^Skaisic 3& <ftii&» vcut- *aC ncr fnniBfif
& l«c i.in saCii: 916 fte»: J0rwr.uks«t vjix iiBL jg> ;^ig aiassgrrf tat K y yayr^i Lijums.
^, 1«»£ iim sacft^ xusz '^xn&wvR Mui Buaaann* xat wiigBt ataejr aet tdimatut^L
3I> li^ 'i:rn fliu;«»: -r!*^..!!*; ii>: jx asnr Trannig 'jimfiutsc 1ft fVKnaapf: ttoc lae: '. i.r.«^t
^ L«e r.m s:^ iriar. :a±Lr^ni*j>» v^crt iH«*fi '.. .rirasn. Tft^^ jmhiiiu ^ mat d»r
2l La aim. sLiCii vii««u«>r x m ii;c Kit utic siiiuej vift iftcc as^ aftcaoL 'Sbt fnonil-
23L la lixzL fliiCi^ 'miii!!:2Ufr x j» :ii'x. irit^ 'Jiac '2^ zrJUi ft 'ai&Bar z€ 'out 'X 'sut usu^* jx
2^ la XL3L fCiU:^ '9'i^.AiKs X ii 2ix ft ifeis i;jftc ;ibe soufc ^sj Iht ffom tJny -cacLk ii*^
Uc 5:r M^-i^". kiiC £-4^:** rant.
S. la imL fos*^ 9uj%iLi*^ ^ i» iiii: ft tru^r i^c; -mac viiSL ii^ s'.ftevit m. ':auf ji.iir!!*^
it: MSKaCj oflii ^T't^ftir^: i^^t^:^ :i 'jDiSjOfir v. i<: A^i«i. loxi laikc -iibti tttitfitt sf 'zaiaitc-^
fisK mi** ".ir*^ ii.;-* ir:>r --ihe ;*r-ru-i40Cu^ ;€ "a* jam wiATsnd v*_
jst la T.m. 8:^^^ vi^-^iisr kLj x '.^ t irirayrx -vixaft anaus wit 'TSS^ uAsfm ixL^*r
Tkt '^tfr -jii,t.i 7!i. 'U«: riu^ 1^1 i«r iiiifi'.ttiii ".'Wnra^ liTjo. s&i i^ -jb^r ^lui ini: i.*
mft 'Sii* ;.»i«*c ▼* :ii»^ V i*ji ej£^\ -jux i^ui 5* ^ft^ yasL md, jua -v^jat "^i^ft-i mho.
2r. La i..Ti c^mI: ▼it^roRT ii*^ liut ^ftat 1^7 yxTi^sL x '^iiifsfi: ij^iii«c Jtmauir^t ».
S. liK i-JL jcft::*^ ¥i4^»ii»r :i»*: jj:-tai«%ar-i.iii*fi 'ii:, a.itf -jr fti.7 ;aft :f ijad. irju-
jsit v-ir* *'J-;» uv. ia^iir-*#i i^uijl -lit iu.^J3% x ;i* ii^'jaaLrtOC* a«7 ¥«»
2*. La I'll «-tit v:Lt*£Lij*r ijk ii^u:** iiJlj kaj.nn -; *aiia ji* ir ^ klj jut .L 'Jut
2206 APJ'ATBS OP THfi MEXICAN KIOKAl^OO INDIANS.
30. Let him state whether he fully informed each one of the forementioned IndianB
or any one of them as to the value of these lands they were alienating.
31. Let him state whether he made these Indians or any one of Uiem understand
that these allotment lands of theirs were of great value.
32. Let him state before what competent authority or legal witnesses in Eagle Pass,
or in this country, he caused said deeds of sale or alienation to be signed.
33. Let him state where he presented theee deeds for record.
34. Let him state who were his partners in the purchase of these lands, what are
their names, and where are they domiciled.
35. Let him state whether he has sold or transferred by deed of sale or otherwise
these lands or any portion of them.
3G. Let him state whether while he was employed as special agent with the Indians
he agreed with a certain Davis through the intermediation of a certain Perry Rod key
to cause the cancellation of the allotment of a certain Indian, Wapana kis ka kah,
conditioned on Davis giving him a thousand dollars.
37. Let him state what was his occufrntion during the five years preceding his nomi-
nation as United States special agent with the Indians.
38. Let him state if he has ever been accused or prosecuted for any offense against
the laws of the United States or those of Oklahoma.
39. Let him state whether he has ever been mixed up with a transaction for which
he was threatened with a criminal prosecution.
40. Let him state whether he has said since he has been here that he was acting
under orders of the Grovemment of the United States as paymaster of the Kickapoo
Indians.
4 1 . Let him state the agreement that he had with the Indians mentioned regarding
the Hale or aliQpation of their lands in Oklahoma.
42. liCt him state whether this agreement was in writing or verbally.
43. Let him state whether he has complied with the agreement in full or in part.
44. Let him state who or whom are his partners or representatives in this town and
what are their powers.
45. Let him state whether he has acquired any land in this Republic.
46. Let him state: First, how much he agreed to pay for said land; second, where it
is situated; third, the area it has; fourth, was the payment to be made cash or to be
on time.
47. Let him state where the deeds were drawn up and where he presented them for
record.
48. Let him state whether he still is owner of the land he acquired in this Republic.
49. Let him state who are the persons in the favor of whom are the forementioned
deeds, dated the 7th and 9th of MWch of the present year, that he caused to be signed
by the before-mentioned Indians in Eagle Pass.
50. Let him state what relationship these persons bear him.
51. Let him state what relationship Ida M. Bentley bears to him, and what relation-
ship he has with W. W. Ives.
52. Let him state whether he has not represented with insistence to the Indians that
if they would come to Mexico they would be able to follow, without interference, their
savage mode of life; and using the powers he had, he would eive to those who should
come and would issue him powers to dispose of their lands in Oklahoma, wagons, mules,
horses, and tools, and to further encourage them, told them that the United States
(iovemment was goin^ to force them to send their children to school, and they them-
selves to cultivate then: lands.
53. Let him state what amount of money he received of the Kickapoo Indian woman.
Ah thah meh skah mo quah, who died the 15th of February of the present year, leav-
ing a descendant.
M. Let him state what he did with this mone^.
55. Let him state whether he de}K)8ited it with any guardian or proper authority.
50. Let him state whetlier he has told or represented to the Indians, Kickapoos and
others, with whom he has treated, that the store e^tablisluKl near the buildings occu-
pied by Mr. Thackery as the agency office in the neigh l)orhood of Shawnee, is on
account of Mr. Thackery, or that he has a large interest in the profits of said store,
making the said Indians believe that money placed in the hands of the person in
charge of said store was virtually in the hands of Mr. Thackerv, and that he (Mr.
ThacKery) would answer for saidi deposits, while he (Mr. Bentley) knows that Mr.
Thackery never had nor lias any interest whatever in said store, it was and is estab-
lished against the judgment and wish of said Thackery.
And prays that the examining jud^e shall make the declarator answer fully this
interrogatorv and in a clear and concise manner, and when the information is taken
that a certified copy of it be issued.
€Sf 1SE yEESS^.AS- KBCmAFGiS' fSRHUOL VSSFi
flirjsHur/. SiCL iTninnnJfr : ihL mapsasx: id » isirmae^gA. hl i:?^ ^d#xi£ :
BiK K kzusf^n. Sea Tiiwiniif 3l mak t&K s^ * Saomd: Qtsad 'smrs Ifoa
flmt JviilL t&sr mcfflrx^uiiiia if liis- "mxiitflceciju ^n&i^sa "^ Use f^&a^ inxtnsxiiciiaa siiiitiijfiri Hit
Rtiioel iTiifflarta. nawtaBre -vtcnoK ^C93xca ^^rnrfg-.. JL J. WskiJs. 'S^l
tfsn^Vitf 11117- smun. 'imnafL ii» iimaPfflBMfflc: IDfc Jl *5^ BmrftritmBL in ^±jet^rs»aKnii»
ife Qsnnr t£ ^Si^ T^msncur iniissriCHJirj
L T.i 1^ ±39£ iiif^rixia le isi^v^vsui t^oc ^i» omxisr s as wnamL: 4S j>aus if vpt,.
mmaxfL x 'jcl-^tj^ 'ikcl in fhtt^vaefc <Okiiiw. Cnrnid staOBi <if Jmsexca^. and Ofmgii^
2L Til mft «f!r*iut. Y«.
3u T^ *3ift tiiiprt. Ss T^jars auim ir job.
Sc Til ^iie ifnii. T!uu: i^i»7 -v(»& iBinittasai juni «dj»£r ^ wv&dBaeavTxi^ ilS» Bomi
^ Ti "^ fliirji. r^j* :mi* lui ii:t: -ygiwc. hue ^:&ac it ^aof ^ aierriumn tits ^dfaiff ox
drifflr "iac is iiii:nlit iiMirngr x -*: 5ifci Thackarj sait tiiff uicsfflr miia: harni htum. wqb-
ifefi. 3m OB iaa «iii niriimg — r. iiiiiTi » :^ac ai»^ Eok iawiait 1. SRCsq^i: mr jil ^ac x!»
<lsiir7isn!ft m him ju'liuimir ant jnxft. ffis io»ar7*ifi rsutt ai *2isu: Tnnmiiariai mnH*
te ifmssc m imnuf :t *dirt^ V.^'^rrungnc ;^ zsrasiL oriimrarf if 'jiixih«r iml lim*. and
as uxft ±irur zr -Jn* ;ruii*r Tia -u-u^n. iiiE iiy urtss iil ^2ift ruuiixu!ixur x 3F5aiiiic»t tuiac i*
ftoit inrYTL 3u;r!* iiuiLi^r "Uiaa via inmi&x: lari Dsas fhrifc Yhesa>mm "uist nexrhnnz siok
fbn- "i^iixiisr It "liii^ imi>^. ~iif^ ^.i^'^^hr -.a "^ jimhiOL aoil m. ^ Bus sasarL as has -jmui, i&s
7 Ti "aift «'^«fTTnfi. 5ii»
Jl Ti *2ii? -miriGL 5ii^
»- Ti ^2n» 11:1 ci. J«i.
M. Ti -sift -i»m±., 5ii.
EL Tn !^«r *ift^»TiriL, 5r<i.
E. T.i liift T^^LTui. Tiiiffl: zrjBS±-r*^'j aa.
hncL asirf -iuu: la ma t»*ftrL t .m "Jift ?t»jHitRnt: if "^^ E-fcuiiiif! in. "jnzLgsxcj^ -viiSl t^s-
iutxui 'XTui zfi 'ill ria«i ~^r..nir i:m i.:rjtc x. '
lia. Ti "Ui** fc^nni. rinir. j»* laa imi. 'iht: ie anxr aas inr^ n&igr 5iiufe ti^oa ti^fus-
<bs^fjB.tivt 3ir liii* ^lurjiaiK if '{irnta jmt 5m!ic* xaxxs iar ^Ftiiiiii iii iuMi ^tt'sl <!ai2&-
Ill T 1 tun* s:zz^jrGi. rii*7 ir» F^trnk ICmirT- 2% inn, socf ic^ias *&ic is 'laoi msc
miiffizLhf^.
IT. T.1 "Sirt »*" rnrr*f»!irji. Tia*- .f Pa.ria ii» imt CiHW ^-narh'^sn animfy. ▼iipfi, Is
&fls 3*?nir!i»*fi ,1: } ini";^^ ?ti" a. II Jil* 1 >Tn»ymrT amut?^ "inK *^i«» iIbr is Bus br^
ttiimf*fl V. it^jT 'i liiiaia jti^-ojii. IT. MW zias: in has uan :«fsimi»ff x Tti kfflt BSs-
tfei»7 auutrt vxj. j..ni.
ii r : '::it* *5xpr.**»nTui- "!"!«* if :»TiiTaa -ni:*»r!iiini;TiaL SdiWrj ''flinnsxEj. i&s SindL-
«Ei Pu'idt! ?-,i/.'VT7 Zr.mzftA-^ Tii^fie irimrjuiii^i ir* Jiiv»r«i»t if!f!siifis "isT- 5ir?%
smi T-^as R^-virr V.iiipaa.7 v-rii -.in* ams 'TiT>*r»*fr '^lac jmaaacad, irtt^ '^iwr feg.
tes ^ESKIZlSlilT^ 3a XOS HOC m& r-m-fiiyny jk iwy i Fm jj^ fpwtf«m
2908 ASViOBB OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
It bein^ 6 o'clock in the evening, this declaration is Buq;>eiuled, to be omtinued at
S o^dock in the morning to-monow, and, read as it was to the declarant, he affirmed
and ratified it, signing with the judee, the representative of the ''ministeno publico,"
and the interpreter. We attest: lU^ E^izondo, M. E. Kodri|B;ues, A. G. Berchel-
man, M. J. Bentley, A. Franco Aguirre, A. Florencio Wals. (Sig^ manuals.)
Musquiz, August 1, 1905. Now that it is 9 o'clock in the morning, and Mr. M. J.
Bentley being present for the effect of continuing this proceeding in the presence of
the representative of the "ministerio publico," he was newly sworn and promised to
speak the truth in what he may know and be asked. The examination was proceeded
with and, according to the interrogatory, he answered:
19. To the nineteenth. That outside of the railwav companies mentioned he has
no other assDciates other than the Kickapoo Indians who reside here.
20. To the twentieth. Yes; he recommended that law to the Congressional com-
mittees.
21. To the twenty-fiist. That he made known to Congress that the Indians were
not residents of the United States, and that they resided in Mexico, and for that reason
desired to dispose of their lands in the United States.
22. To the twenty-second. That money was not used illegally.
23. To the twenty-third. That he does not recollect having had such conversation.
24. To the twenty-fourth. That he can not resolve this, because he does not remem-
ber having given any data.
25. To the twenty-fifth. That he had no kind of documents or forms when he left
Washington.
26. To the twenty-sixth. That he is attorney for the Indians, and it is a question
as between attorney and client, and therefore reserves himself to answer this question
if he be compelled to do so by the judge.
27. To the twenty-seventh. That he has paid them money; to all those who have
made transfers.
28. To the twenty-eighth. He took special pains to make them imderstand: as
much he, as the notary and the American consul at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, before
whom they signed the documents; and according to his true understanding they
were well acquainted. Further, two of them speak English well.
29. To the twenty-ninth. That, as he has stated with specialty, he took care to
make them know the contents of the documents.
30. To the thirtieth. That all imderstood well the value, and be discussed with
them the total value that those lands might bring.
31. To the thirty-first. That these Indians are the most intelligent of the tribe
and know well the value of their lands by the improvements that they themselves
have made.
32. To the thirty-second. That the documents were drawn in Eagle Pass, Tex.,
before the president of the Border National Bank, who lb a notary public; that he,
as much as the Indians, speaks Spanish well and could understand each other well;
that another document was made oefore the American consul within his district.
33. To the thirty-third. The purchasers sent these documents to the United States
for record in their proper district.
34. To the thirty-fourth. That there were no partners; that Mrs. Ida B. Bentley
was a purchaser of two lots and resides in Tecumsen, Okla. Ifr. J. H. Everest, of the
city of Oklahoma, bought one lot, and the other lots were bought by W. W. Ives, of
Shawnee, Okla.
35. To the thirty-fifth. That he has not sold, and lb aware that three allotments
have been sold.
36. To the thirtywBixth. No.
37. To the thirty-seventh. That when he was appointed Indian agent he was
mayor ot the city of Shawnee, and previous to that was engaged in the promotion of
railway enterprises.
38. To the thirty-eighth. That he has never been arrested under the laws of Okla-
homa. He was arrested by the United States Government, but thev withdrew the
action, and he was never broueht to trial. That at present he is chaiged with an
offense that the supreme court oi justice has declared is no violation of the laws.
39. To the thirty-ninth. That he does not know of any — cmly those before men-
tioned.
40. To the fortieth. Thgt he has not stated it.
41. To the forty-first. The agreement ia that of the monev preduced by the sale
there would be given to them wnat thev needed to live on; tne remainder, if it were
sufficient to buy land in Mexico, would oe thus invested; and each one received some
money when he made the transfer of his land, and even up to date they have been
receiving; that the land which mi^ be bought could be here or in Texas; that the
AFT JUBS or XHK Mmcw UCKaPOO aHAaOu 2209
4S. Tf»i^SaB^-«OHidL HwmhffBB^9tmL^
A. T^ «^ ist^-mmL TBus &« las ^nm^fiieii smbe^mti ham hegm j&mSAt 9m 1
aoii hiui aioboA «!T9Bsicbi^ ^cr fomham^ Mid m, i&« ei^ i&e fwvcr wonM a@s maSBn
mgaoKfi nn^kzae ^a tsms. wiiK!& s lias htsoEagim hem^ muA i( fiwgng ^ as CRacmir $^ 8&«r
4f. Yf^ n&f*: Si^nij'-^bim&i, Hoc lisr ftos !i& ^arOKBi csesytinQ^ sio^ f^iffJMwr ts&as bcr
JbDjoaasL rnniuf^. ir^tiL Itisxit^ ar» ssnas^f on s&i^ st^ri&as pan: ^^ s&b Sbtfftc tfioK
-i^L. T^> ^ii«£ a jrn'-'ii^silu Tlufcz k<>r » 3a8 f^wmer -^ slj had. zl iiiia E^^ixsi^
-fi^. Tft ^^Mt ir^rrnr-nssaoL. T&isc ^ has -jafinsitT jaitfor«^ i&» Itf ,^w.
^^ Xs ^n^ irnj-dcflL. Has nii*' fee i» hm in^ saA s&e «^e&i«f be a^ nslbiSn^ii.
)Ci»sBe&': :ma& jr4iu>r '^f duoL -sr^if^ t^fj jt^at aoii kaii r>i£k8Fr>;jf sbcsw ^e Ekiafii*
fsfj^sas (s£ 5i*t ^vf"?!^**"^' ^ju'*iL"T. £Xit ifr «i:^iia!fi shifsiL Trisii fa^»^ fer tik* tUBp^
ti^Afy ksrpi: noiii*^ icf^n zuvt^tt m v^ -vUc^l ?;hii£7 ^^fxM siasirai ifc''^ lfe»!ziieri<r s£kS as oarf cf
.^ T'* ^iit^ IrrT-d'jir^ T^as sskh- ^&ft- ^i^a&k ^ t;&^ in^mm wfwuuk ftK- nacacjaBod
^»flii«»s 1 € !ii»r «(*Jcii»5» isifi MT!^ aiar^hi»-iaga^t^»aaeitdl<HBiPiii^iaifty —
^ T«^ ^kc*r icfTT-dBdt^ •^^^'"^ •>*^ s*'-^ i^*» ^■'^ *»^ .t.i^.4.^ ^# fih^ w-'^^^ *T frf- hw ir-itH'
w»xi£ ?kK>rr t;&an ^ v^&i *±i>- Lutsaais ^±as is^*- ^«di^»^nift jfe^. uictiiaj wasiKiiMMif^iB
t&ae ^MKzu^jS. ai^ r>fl»^a '.t di.» 2r<»ac ini»ititfhi> h«»r iaii wisii tiibftr«wr»eg^iii[ii itfuaw-,
e^twAsui*^ ]jt» 'ib^r ^^iE^ b«^ i.rwtmtAsi ia mat ^x/ssn SfV wham, m maqrjiat to m 4ttemgt^
€iB«» A^uTT**:. JL ? I^iis. ^ijex Tianrmm ht mmBtsa&t ami la 12 |tMii ^«<Si s m
5pir.:i>c.. ir-ii "..i-h :.-.r.f- l^^rr. x '.:^r:.ii*#i ■■^r.^y '-^ tifeftB*- pn^'i^f^ifiacs f,(«»- HH£i*<i i^ m* mtgs-
«^i»«!7'^ X i2ii iUHLHift. I i;:r.r^> Vjbaiits Luaaif^. Cadbs fWr fneMvj.
Oa iki^ 1 :'na '^ A-i^-igr. -±1^ r^rj-^ j£ i±ja SiR^om^ ^oor* aos made. Be it 1
2210 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXKl^AN KICKAPOO IHDIAKB.
On the 12th Augui^ appeared the official interpreter, Mr. Albert Lobo, and after
being sworn said that he nad informed himself of the letter written in English that ib
connected with sheet 10, 'and whose literal translation to Spanish is as follows:
The First National Bakk,
ShawTue, 0. T., 7th July, 1905.
Mr. WaP PB CHI QUAH,
ifuzquiz, Mexico.
Dear Friend: Your letter in which you tell Mr. Clark that I should so there we
received to-day. We both will be there soon. Mr. Clark will certainly be there by
the 17th of July. We will now stay about two months, and will arrange the business
of the Kickapoo. Some children have returned to the school here, and I think some
of them will go south with us. You Kickapoos ought not to fear anyone. Behaving
yourselves well, you have nothing to fear, nor will the Mexican Government trouble
you. When you break the law is when you will be punished. Trusting that soon we
will see each other.
We are your attentive and obedient servant,
M. J. Bentlet.
This he set forth and signs. I attest: Albert Lobo; Carlos Bios, secretary. (Sign
manuals.)
On the 12th of August at 6 in the evening, Mr. Dickson was notified of the foregoing
report, in accordance with article 83 of the Code of Civil Procedure. (Sign manual.)
Strike out " diligencia/' no value. And in compliance with that ordered by this court
in thb decree of date 9th of the current month tnere is issued to Mr. C. H. Dickson the
present certified copy, with the legal stamps duly canceled in this city of Monclova on
the 19th day of the month of August, 1905. I attest:
F. ValdAs Llako.
Carlos Rigs,
Seaelary.
ExHinrr No. 132 [Goode].
Petition of Charlee H. Dickson, supervisor of Indian schools.
Hon. first court of letters of the district of Monclova.
The undersigned, resident of the United States and charged with a conmiission of
the Government of the United States, respectfully appears before you and makes
known: That for the elucidation of certain facts he neecus to make a legal inquiry rel-
ative to the conduct and management oi a certain Martin J. Bentley, Indian agent, as
with the Government of the United States and the Kickapoo Indians. Some of the
Indians interested are resident or domiciled on lands belonging to the presidency of
the villa Muzquiz, of this district. Therefore he petitions this honorable court to
empower a competent judge of villa Muzquiz to cite and under oath cause the following
persons to depose: Okemah and his wife, Thi the qua; Wah hah ke the hah and his
wife, Wah puck weche; Kish kenie quot and his wife, Ne pah hah: Tapa thea, Neco
no pit and nis wife, Ah na thi hack; Noten, and other persons that ne will present in
order that they answer the following interrogatory:
First. What induced him to come to Mexico?
Second. Let him state what statements were made to him regarding the value of
lands in the neighborhood of Shawnee, Okla.,at the time that the sale or alienation of
the land belonging to him by allotment was being negotiated, and at the time when
he si^ed the transfer deed.
Third. Let him state who made him these statements.
Fourth. Let him state what representations (statements) were made to him by Mar-
tin J. Bentley as to the amount of money he would have to pay him for this allotment
land.
Fifth. Let him state whether this amount would have to be in Mexican money or in
that of the United States.
Sixth. Let him state, if the payments were to be in Mexican money, did the agree-
ment stipulate silver, gold, or bills?
Seventh. Let him state whether, in fact, he receiviMl money; what was the amount
and what he did with the amount he recoivod.
Eighth. Let him state whether the payment of tliis allolnH ni was to be not in money,
but rather by exchange for other land in this country.
ikvvjUBS or
MmTAW nCKAFOO
SSll
«r «dbci9 grx«& cr I
kiiB lor ^fi- aSlslBKflBB i&at bdfioi^ ao iffiB im
i%«caBk. Lii IsaMifte vtsB iviae had ^^ pKf>my
Scciifcien^ LetiB2Bflaaf'&umwii&ai4iadfec;M3qsimriiL,s&Siar
EodbbBeoOtt. La ium flsHie «^ Hade iBBi timiir
aibai
ano^iunsj tar iKSarj tJa^r v^er^ _^
T'vxQxstX'^Mnl. lit^ Mm §BM/t wfb& siodiEr
Tir<€!UtT'd:ii2r^ Lai Mm fOS« Mmt fBODC^
Tir'tsmj-MiiL. Lftst Mm iBKUt itiit' foaS Mm
Tv^sntT^flixsikL. Ia Mm tftiixr wM>
liBiv MCKSi;«d iar Mf
Aatd ivMiL s^^ niS<.B?naBaGm ^ nxsaved tMt s 4
Ktfoesi^ tM fisii ^^ «< iiJj.
Let it lie "kssmiL^ {Sa^ mmriMi )
It if pns«u«d.
Lf€n ^ acfcJL^a be iumied, aoid, » » fssoned hir ^ut fi^Umm'., let iM' m^aBTaasxm n^as
S& 6»fcr»Kfd sad scikfid Irr liit- i&ai jfoSi^ ^ ksStOBp «f iMf ^eaaci ti Mumikcn-jL.' I
aRn.*5fi! F. TiJld«i Uixusc CicilaE BaoE. aecMatj. |^^ iiiiMiirii >
Si '•cttraxuBaaL n k ScinPTBrdttd.
L/«: in bt in'.ini Sict atKHiiaL)
TL^ Ibs: j.i'tik2 jiiO^ crotr-ttd 3:1 lokd fiirn^fd. We atCii^iHt: Eaimd GacEs.. A. EamUkct*
liin' *Q£x: '*r»- t",*:rH: P-idi»^l '.xuTLk Ani:ii5 ^ ITbttiRicj, C&mt. H- MEt-iaHU, JL. F^iit^u
Fr^^tfoui.: Tirt: 111'- st.^t» <>k.-*r na^. Widi iihi k« dbe* MAl X4ioBaKfia^ aad 3^9b«iL: tM^
w«r»- F» -jrx to'-T'.T.rriiAr v: !kv ^jiC virii^tc -C n«t jieaifciiy ^as liOT -vncR- imii^ri 5© tf
iJOiQ ik itkJL:«c jc ♦" i^tkng joict I2i«: ioi al iM; Unwiifd £iua«ij and iMj ' ^ *
2212 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
answerins; that they protestedi and do not sign because they do not know how, those
only doing so who knew. We attest: Rafael Garza, Arthur C. Wheatley , Henry Jones,
M. E Rodriguez, A. Emilio Acosta, A. Francisco Aguirre. (Sign manuals.)
MuzQUiz, Auguit f , 1906.
Present, Oke mah, and before the representative of the prosecuting attorney (minis-
terio publico), and through the interpreters, Messrs. Arthur G. Wheadey and Henry
Jones, he stated his name was as here written; of 49 years of age; married; a farmer
and hunter, of this neighborhood; and that the general clauses^ do not apply as with
the petitioner, and asked in accordance with interrogatory that foregoes answered:
^ To the first. To show his children to his father and mother-in-law, who lived in
the nacimiento (colony), and with the object of going to work.
To the second. That nothing was told nim of the value of the lands in Oklahoma
at the time of the sale, nor when he signed the deeds did they explain how much they
were paying him for his lands.
To the fourth. That he did not tell him anything regarding the value he had to pay
him.
To the seventh. That he received from Mr. Bentley |200 gold and $200 Mexican
silver.
To the eighth. That it was to be b}r exchange for land in this country.
To the ninth. That he has not received it, nor does he know where it may be.
To the twelfth. That he is still content.
To the thirteenth. Thait the |200 sold and the $200 silver he understands that he
received them on account of his allotment in Oklahoma; that Mr. Bentley and a
banker, whose name he does not Jmow but who is fat, delivered them to him.
To the seventeenth. That the agents of the Government of the United States told
them they could sell their lands.
To the ei|:hteenth. That it was Mr. Bentley.
To the nineteenth. That he was not notined anythine of that which is asked him.
Next he was asked as to the reason of his statement and answered that he bases the
reason for his statement in that it is evident to him by sight and hearing; with which
this proceeding was closed, it being noted the other Questions were not put to him,
as the petitioner thought it unnecessary. This he saia and read to him- ne affirmed
it and ratified it, signing those who might know. We attest: Rafael Garza, M. E.
Rodriguez, Henry Jones, Arthur G. Wheatley, Ghas. H. Dickson. (Sign manuals.) A.
Emilio Acosta, A . Francisco Aguirre. (Sign manuals. )
MuzQUiz, AuguBt t, 1905,
Present, Wah nah ke the hah, before the representative of the ministerio publico,
and through the interpreters, Arthur G. Wheatley and Henry Jones, he stated he is
called as it is written; of 41 years of age; mamed; farmer; native of the Mexican
Republic; resident a long time in the United States, and now here; that the general
clause of the law does nut touch him as regards the petitioner, and examined in accord-
ance to the tenor of the interrogatory that foregoes he answered.
To the first. Because he had desires to come to Mexico and because of the bad way
he was treated in the United States.
To the second. That they told him nothing of the value of land in Oklahoma; that
they told him that the value of his lands was $10,000, but that he was not to receive
money, but lands in Mexico.
To the third. Mr. Bentley.
To the fourth. None.
To the fifth. That he does not know.
To the seventh. That he has not received money nor has he sold his lands; that
which he has done is to propose his lands in Oklahoma in exchange for land here.
To the eighth. That he had not to receive any moncv, but land in this country in
exchange for his; that he has not received it; does not know the reason why.
To the twelfth. That if they comply with what was offered he is satisfied.
To the thirteenth. That he has received nothing irom anyone.
To the seventeenth. That thev have not told him anything.
To the nineteenth. That he nas not signed any deeds, nor have they made him
any notification; that he has signed a document for the exchange of his lands, he and
his wife, here in the camp that they actually have in this place, but they have not
a General clauses referred to are any personal antagonism or intimate friendship or
blood relationship, which are regaraed as inhibiting a sworn statement affecting
either party.
2913
JLikei as t& csi^ Raaga of *~^
■B bjr tlie iBftillapeaee he ]
vmwmd t» the ^epiottet thii ■%.% the
F^MtcwiMecL We
C. W^emkt^, Bk^stt Pmm, Ckm. H,
I the 3d ^ AjKTBit die eporeedsaci weie 2
Let it be laowm. ^^g^maamLf
Scooa^rsniL: h^jnt the lytn'iLgatrne qtf Ite BmsBerio pcMatgou he fCsMd
af^mmj rwtzs^ beps. aoi shsc ac vish ift^* peeisiQa he » ace Kodbfci !k>j thrate li nt^
trmstmaiaacm he ne t^^memanamd m iiMiieiiilj eiih the f
Totheint. Tha<b*fc»aBek»B»k»e>vlakedtoliveiBtheUeaiedSfia^
T»the«Kr>iSi<L Tbau: )i&<(7diii kx e«B iucB jajt&neafaoot tbeva^
^ iiL^<H7 a^MaebsB: chtf he 4tid ace kS thoe: that he f^sv^ thes t» Mr.
To the faviJi. ThftS oi:4&nr wm mid ahosfc ijmj. that Mil Basiej w to eive
iB koe a pKf!i^ •- c itusxi w^«f£. £^ saj fitt^*- fe<x^
To the •■g^'^fc Tbss 3 had cc be xa *T^%flirif* fercc^uo' per^pectj ia c&k cwEaitij g>^»^
he H^ haiK^ a 9>«£ piKe V.
Totteaiaiiu tla2af:»kiseSuMbeeBt«]ied«?verv>hJaB: they jir jgf ki^ far it>
TotheOreSftL- That ke » cne&ast witk thii 1
To the thirteessh. That ^ ^ae aot sJd am laad. thmtAje he kas aot iwjeitpl pa j-
ab^at finoL azcp:!!^:.
T>»die»gy<!iiiiiii'alh Thataeooel , _,
To tki% siia^c^eKxszL. T^iai2t^isydiidBccex|iJaQiaaTt££3i^,
fBroaelaHl feraaodbv.
T» the tv^atieth, Tbac he kas an AjuMaeat whan m, that pqhaya ^haa he kbit
BaccHvOalaad iftier viM fTP^ ksK tkrt^deeda.
T^thetveaST-sxtku Tbac Mr. E^uierpaaaM&ed kma.
JAi9>iaaiptfc*'Pcaa»^kj§friifwiifnn hetaia iiiiii: ThacitiievidnfttahBBhf'ia-
te^Mce rbfr boa v^ -miicescaafi fbtia^
Tfiahetfaiivl rsat ch^ -niKSt «v 4f!»e lor hiai he 3
floae irbt-j kzr.^ SfW. W«> anuat: Rii»*£ Gana. M. E. :
lqr,lfcm J i.g«fc ♦rbafc H, l>»daoa, A. fiaato Aoorti. A, F. Wak. (Sigai
RgwjiA 5>:c«Q bi>^rr^ i2ae nyLnawodLgrrs 'sl the mtmwmrm pdUkou '^'■'^^ hs later-
fgfiUSB, Ar±r=7 •:. W1l»^^:-?7 tzxt R-zmj Jrsasts, itated he is aaned at is wnttcA. fd 4%
Wfe. acti'iha: js vnii '^x^ |Kin±]i:i3fir. tbe zeoeEaZ dbass of lav do aoC atnch kin. aaii
exaBiii:f*fi 2. '-.rrcirrr^rn' -wizh ^x: gsarjaeary pRaealed, he aaawesed:
To thx^ irs:. Piik;: i<c <-jkS2<>- fo Mexkn^Q> »e if the Mexkaa Goieimaeat avijti
sitacesi ;b«r l:^;!*'^ t±di;i ibt^j bad cco?cded «a tcheoi hefeasL
T's ?fc*- ^^.r.tiii- T^K ae nr.^rr^ ^ ac9 fem the Uastod StaiBi Gq
vhen hj<^ r»!r.CT£fi v. cce tc M^^oes Mr. B^irdiffj nade hh
w»fe wrxrji. tl '0fi. iziti vbaL za: u^gBcd the d^iczaBessts thejrdid aat tail 1
T«- tike -±zrl lias Mr, BeESter -faL
To d>r xnTLS;. Tbiz i<» iki sec ziax» scy sasesaeaa vhas«"ver Rfapinf tteaaunnt
cf BiciK^y. &nii isirj %:ud hisi ihw: itlc^ itirrizii^iis be- was fhgnmg was aa rEckaage isr
otter ^i zi 3f ffurr.
Ts- tke- 9i%*^^^_^ TiukT. wtea be %:t:j(tited the pea ia sj^k^ 'of warw he aeccirTeii
1M AmeTifjKZ: o.< jff frxi Mr. Beatles, aad mt bctae^ loac cher w>9e CEi«a kaa
aaacewt4><the iiii'aaaii cf the IbmI tkat he dkoahi wcai^ hew^
2214 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
To the ninth. That as yet he has not received the land in exchange.
To the twelfth. That he is content.
To the thirteenth. That he has only given him $100 (gold), as he has previously
stated.
To the seventeenth. That they told him he could sell his lands, as he had a right
to do so.
To the eighteenth. That it was Mr. Bentley.
To the nmeteenth. That he was not notified anything.
To the twentieth. That he has no documents, nor has he received the property.
To the twenty-second. That Mr. Bentley told him he was going to obtain permis-
sion to sell his lands, and for the which he signed the document. ^
To the twenty-sixth. That no one persuaded him. He thought of it himself.
Interrogated as to the reason of his statement, he bases it on tlmt it is evident to him .
from the understanding he has of it, and this, his declaration, read to him, he affirmed
and ratified it, not signing because he stated he could not. Those who know did so.
We attest: Rafael Garza, M. E. Rodriguez, Arthur 0. Wheatley, Henry Jones, Chas.
H. Dickson, A. Emilio Acosta, A. F. Wals.
On the Sd of August the proceedings were suspended, to be continued the following
dav.
Let it be known.
(Sign manual.)
MuzQuiz, August 4, 1905,
Present: The Indian women Wah puck weche, Tapa thea, and Ah na thi pack.
They were sworn according to law before the representative of the ministerio puolico,
and warned of the penalty that they would incur if thev should conduct themselves
in falsehood, througn the mterpreters, Henr^/^ Jones and Arthur G. Wheatley, and thev
answered that yes, they swore; with the which this proceeding was closed; the whicn
they do not sign, as tney do not know how. We attest: Rafael Grarza, Arthur C.
Wheatley, Henry Jones, M. E. Rodriguez, Chas. H. Dickson, A. Emilio Acosta,
A. Franco Aguirre. (Sign manuals.)
MfJZQuiz, August 4, 1905.
Present: Tapa thea, before the representative of the ministerio publico; stated,
through the interpreters, Henry Jones and Arthur C. Wheatley^ to oe named as is
written, to be 70 years old, a widow, native of the Indian Territory, in the United
States, and a resiaent of this municipality; and questioned in conformity with the
preceding interrogatory, answered:
To the first question: That she came to accompany her people, and because of her
desire to live in Mexico.
To the second. That she never knew anything of the values; that they did not tell
her the value; that she did not know the contents of the document, but she signed it
in Eagle Pass, in order that Mr. Bentley might give her a piece of land in Mexico in
exchange for hers.
To the fourth. That they did not speak about money, but that they would give her
apiece of land in Mexico in exchange for her land in Oklahoma.
To the seventh. That when she touched the pen they gave her $300 silver (Mexican);
that she understood it was for her to eat, not m payment of her land.
To the ninth. That she does not know; that it has not been delivered to her yet.
To the twelfth. That she is content if they deliver to her the land offered her by Mr.
Bentley.
To the thirteenth. That she has not received anythinj^ on account of land; that the
IdOO that she said were given her by Mr. Bentley she believes were for the favor she did
him in touching the pen.
To the seventeenth. No statements were made regarding the rieht to sell.
To the eighteenth. That she thought from her own heart to excnange her lands.
To the nineteenth. That they did not notify anything.
To the twenty-sixth. That no one persuaded her. She was next asked as to reason
of her statement, and answered that it is evident to her by sight and knowledge she
had of it. This she said and read, which it was she affirmed and ratified it. Those
signinff who may know how. We attest: Rafael Garza, M. E. Rodriguez, Arthur C.
wheatley, Chas. H. Dickson, Henry Jones, A. Emilio AcoHtu, A. Franco Aguirre.
(Sign manuals.)
MuzQuiz, August 4^ 1905.
Present: The witness Wah puck wecln*; wius exainined regarding her general con-
ditions before the representative of the miiiiHterio publico, througn the interpreters
mentioned, and stated that she was nam^ as is written, of 60 years of age, married, has
AFTASMB or THK
»17
tfilil ii€tf
SA^^J
«rjwr)
8<CTdsj as Q» tlie aamn
iivti^j
1. Wlac Qufncsfi koL <9r &I7 fin csm«
4. WTiac «itr^ixii^irj ▼«wf- 3i:i>iH- v. kiai 07- ltir"i3; J.
noac -:lt&i!- Cim:^ seac*!^
r. :§tisewiieE£a IB. files ^Be£sv«^aHae7^«ftasi«i»c^aBafi«^
M scaCK w^ac -rakx^ i^mkoi fB3^«nj ac *:&«: 4tnt «< ;&s? _
IL Sace v&dfi ^la^BK- <iMft bft <aamisr msA pr^fisnj ■sv' ^aiv% ft^n^sif .
sb^^n; c&afi baUf-.a^Rii aft aan gb Ofrfniinmri
L>. Siacft«fla&^x^£iKha^^l»pv;pers^aeT^E]Kcdb9'«XKfti^^
H. ^^.js^ f?:i!i irtif-.m. iid le- aesiiBei!^ x nut inr mm- oadk.?
L*. War. 2ia«ii* izxi iiit»aft jr.jc<»nii*tir^'*
^, ^r^ir^ -vtii^T^ ijfr fEfaaacM dt«iK an- veoscfi joii i»4r.m: wiuE wrllrriiy «r 1
:!2. TrAS»* ▼tiiiS V^rs ^is VM^^^mtsBm ^Satt i
% SoBif lOc paai km '±i<^ izimiiiiE .:z' •s^oB^gt^ '^ aOt^nmi^iis iir 4
fltf fiOc J^T^i^wi;
Tii lae 22ac v»«i«'*ii- S* aj*: T^ A'j<> Bat ^■^tjt&wk m
Ti 3Le xcniiiL TjuiC it:i;hmg -wm i:ui Tzn if tsae Tt^inBe rf
pnrj-zur iTTt i-j ilia ^iUiiiiL
t- 2Lft 5:iiirii- Tioc m- 3-»^-i*?T iSff art 5«2 frrm atyt&uiig^
T: ^ jg-T^^a Tlae ^ Tfnnsnml fsrjiL Xr. 6«a£ii*7 |9M' 2r.irf aaii i3m>
T: ^* 2£l?ji- 7!U(C i« ids zr.t: r»&:fflrn?ft ± latBi, iwr^.€Jf te kanfr wto» « may te.
7> 1&& -Lijr^^ttHiru: Tnii: -:;2it* flTM s^-M snd ^Sttt fai»^^«r benBdnaUDdi. htmewnmd
l^eoL ui jarniLa::: .c jia i^Ii.cini^iLS ji '"^i:i;i2ii mo. ^ooc Mil Beuiiej jod m ^nirhpr^ v^oor
2218 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
To the seventeenth. That the agents of the Government of the United States told
them they could sell their lands.
To the eighteenth. That it was Mr. Bentley.
To the nineteenth. That he was not notified anything of that which is asked him.
Wah nah ke the hah answers as follows:
To the first question. He says because he had desires to come to Mexico and because
of the bad way in which he was treated in the United States.
Second. That they told him nothmg of the value of the land in Oklahoma; that they
told him of the value of his lands was 110,000, but that he was not to receive money,
but land in Mexico.
Third. That Mr. Bentley did.
Fourth. None.
Fifth. That he does not know.
Seventh. That he has not received monev, nor has he sold his land; that which he
has done is to propose (offer) his lands in Olclahoma in exchange for lands here.
Eighth. That he had not to receive any money, but land in this country (Mexico)
in exchange for his land in Oklahoma; tnat he has not received it — does not know
the reason why.
Twelfth. That if they comply with what was offered (their agreement) he is satisfied.
Thirteenth. That he has received nothinj^ from anyone.
Seventeenth. That they have not told lum anvthme.
Nineteenth. That he lias not signed anv deed, nor nave thev made him anv noti-
fication or information as to paper signed,; that he has signed a document for the
exchange of his land, he and nis wife nere in the camp; that they actually have in
this place; but thev have not sold it (the land) and have not yet received the land
in exchange; that Air. Bentley presented them the document referred to and they
si^ed it, placing the hand on the pen in symbol of the signature, but without other
witnesses than tne same Bentley who gave them |200 Mexican solely because ^ey
aimed.
Twentieth. That they have not given him any document.
Twenty-second. That no representations have been made to him.
Twenty-third. That no one.
August 3, 1905.
Ne con o pit answers as follows:
To the first question. He says: Because he no longer likes to live in the United
States.
Second. That they did not tell him anything about the value of the land, nor at
the time of their alienation; that he did not sell them; that he gave them to Mr.
Bentley.
Fourth. That nothing was said to him about money; that Mr. Bentley has to give
him here (in Mexico) a piece of land, when he may have found it, in exchange for his
land in Oklahoma.
Seventh. That he has not received any money whatever.
Eighth. That it had to be an exchange for otner property in this coimtry, that he
might have a good place to rest.
Ninth. That nothing has been turned over to him; they are seeking for it.
Twelfth. That he is content with this exchange.
Thirteenth. That he has not sold his land, therefore he has not received payment
from anyone.
Seventeenth. That no one told him anything.
Nineteenth. That they did not explain anything to him; he believed he was
exchanging one land for another.
Twentieth. That he has no document whatever; that perhaps when he may receive
the land they will eive him the deeds.
Twenty-sixth. That Mr. Bentley persuaded Uim.
No ten answers as follows:
To Uie first ouestion. He says: That he came to Mexico to see if the Mexican Gov-
ernment would return the land that they had conceded to them before.
Second. That he received 80 acres from the United States Government; that when
he resolved to come to Mexico Mr. Bentley made him understand that they were
worth $2,000, and when he si^ied the documents they did not tell him anything.
Third. That Mr. Bentley did.
Fourth. That he (Bentley) did not make any statementfi whatever regarding the
amount of money, and they told him that the document he was signing was in ex-
change for other land in Mexico.
Arrjknm or thx ukkwaw mscmj^roo mtAxs. 2219
^ ^ tfce famd tiat be Aoidd R«pnne beiCL
SmdL That m Ttt he bat boC ncaw*^ mm ksd ■■ ezdhoaee.
TvdftdL Thatt be M eoDtcBt.
» (BcBlicT) 1m oal J tnr« iiM $100 S!]id, » ke has prmc«ij
Seir«irte«^ TWt they told Ub k& cmM «fl k» lad. » W hid m r^bt to
' ^Ittt it ra Mr. BcBd«7.
L TkalhewmwKAmid6ed(mimm)^ampMmf,
ThMt he faMF BO dooDBenfiF. aor bv be rMenred tike iirc^iifftj.
Twmit^fiHrygad. That \b, Bea^ej %ri4 Mm be m jjii^i^ to <«<ai3 permwntm t»
«cll bk fanad- ir.w the wbfldb be figsaed tibe dcciBflMBl.
TvcBtT-ftxiiL Tbat s^ <ne iKmBMkd bia; be ib^ioelit of it himsdL
Ai:«ccr 4, MSu
Tib mb fbe acfvcD itf kfioiFs:
T^ Uif^ f7*< q^^«4<aiGCL fflt^ s?7: Tks^ ^le cnae to m hi m|M/ ber people aad be-
c»»e <€ ij*T ^^-^s^ v> Jit*" loa Monaco.
^^*xrxA- Tl3«»fc*^3>PT*Tfa»»JCTtt3»r*:^tbeTih6ef lasyf : ibe3rd]d!w:cuflb(9fbe
ypi^^yar, thMX ^^ 4id jiTAksam the wt^v^Vf ^4 ^k^^fxrzm'isA.i^ hin Ee^
Pksf IB crder tbit Mr. Bectiey misfit ^ire ber a pKce oi laod m Urnm ia exduafe
fee bes.
F^nnb. Tbattbe^didsot^MskalKiBt ikb^ Irri dii^
d farad c M^exkto ia «X4!ias4ee far ber fas4 kt Othih' ^;sbl,
Si^rvpciT^L TbiA -rb^^E: f^ V7aci»*d ii>c p«iLi t2^T c»t«- ber $300 alx^ Mexieui; tb>t
A*" Qsud^TfVxd h w*! 5^^ l«er to eat V:t p'r^^rifacoj , w* 133 psTsieciil 1^^ bv lakd.
NtsU:, Tbat «iK dc«s eioC kzinnr tias ti i^sf zjfX bees diflrr^r^ to ber reC
Tv^lfUi. Tbit ^6 if oocsesit if tA^ dtkircr lo ber ibe famd ofiend ber by Mr.
Bectknr.
Tbin^KSib. T^t &i^ bif aoC rt^cierriHd asjjxLm!^ qd aoDooztt d Isaad: tbal tbe $399
tbit dc^ nSd va» rrr^i: vi' ber by Mr. Bed^ej toe b^^Sier^c wm fat tbe fiiviQEi dae £d
bxia is tcociirx "^^-^ p^su
f?eT*fi.p*r-ii:.' Vc- «ias«3:«tti were Eade rf^a^rdr]^ ifce neSLx 1/: fe33-
EiztruHPr.iiL Tsaji ^L«e tbw^ia fr.ca ber ctts b«an fc *xdaai5r^ i»«T famdn
^'xD*-i^<r 132- TIax "ti*^ did nrt zjfJiilj her cr irScrai ber cf jgtji^rn^
Twecty-HxtiL T^ns i» cee persoaded her.
W^ z*^*:k w^ dEae -riSe cf Wib xab k^ tia ia^ • aarveis ai loOov?:
Tf> ui«^ SEA q!K«ca:n •^ sji: B^c^a^ ftibie likec tbe oiAnsUj asA bere eo«3d lii«
Ni^^od . Tbsi Tii*7- Cl>-3 sr.< tell her 4r.;i-ti;i:ije <€ tbe tiJ->^^ 1^ tbe li^i» zzj Okfa^KOMj;
t^ss '■'Lr^- "Cje fLzz^ iz, \he cLiLp cd "V^'fcl jaI br- 1*:- -q'iJti- of tLif &::.!:• jf-jfiiJirT. Mr.
Besni*7- i.*--: i.->'.r.-..*r An>*ri'A:j liisi k:^ ^'.«e» rjin kii-.T vere vitb Lw ja tbe* tine:
thk:: ^ stzi^i "M *^'yzTZj*frL3ji ii> crdv ^hi:i Mr. BeuiAex ■ng^ gn« ber laad bere.
aiA mfXjerj "wif si^ ccczk -S^rwi-
Serecirth. 'Hsal si u« t^mr fbe tcaci'^ tbe pea Ifr. Be^tley 9»i« ber $209 aimer
M'^'xScas \*<xr:sf: Sje d-ki hia tiii* frrcr --^ fcgsiijsf tbe dorriisaens*: tiot be did not grf«
her ti^ ^»i vr.".--:' ' 'X liie kad '.•n thk". ft* niztit bar*: v.n^^Ms^ to cat.
T'ir»if:h- TS::*: »cj* i« ts^^&er: -m-.^'z il^ iJi€^iiika <rf ber pr:ygtT.
'n^zrueec."*^ Tr-i' ii§ ytil tt«e .-*»» T»<.Te:T*t'3 ^.'tt.> — ^
S€Trecru«sA£^ T:ji.i i/*: cc* tOt lier nji^-tidjir re^ardisf tbe li^bt tbat tbe ladiiai
XEaeK^erLLb. Ti-^: ".-JiifT zjfXtfAti -.r ziz tlahz her <ii Bcniia^ thax she doer aot kaov.
Tweasj-mjc^ TisH a?? ciae pierfrafc-f^d iier.
Ah Zi', t^A bii. c -lih -»■-:* <»: Ne cjc •; yrx niipwers ae kllom:
To :£«e ±rsi c-.«-*r::>-i jfirfr lajf lijas «i»* casae i««Pff*- v- aar bere vitb ber rdatH^gf
vctzl fc«e die?
S«Krx«i.. T^.: : .-^ y ♦..-.id hve r. - ■ «: - : jiiriif Tis^- -riJ^ae <jI tbe laad : tfcai wbea fiae i^cacbed
tbe pea ir Eue:.*' Pa** Mr. BezJL'rjr Ei^'*- i»*T f^jiO* Memazi "kje^craee tbej wc»cic exdbjBate
laao- J
Se^-euil- :M*e r««rred bm UX* icr ii^^r»e^ a&d kasbaaud jici^ij j: lieK ibe dcicf aot
kaov wirj -^as zzx'xxj ▼!§ |3t«:i v> ber.
Xxatb. Pr7r^i;>» Mr B*^tia?T iijit kii'.-w li^nr <>'. iwt Jc&ov '■ii«« it ntaj '«r: ii«y
bare aot rwjerr^i n_
T veifGLL. X&ai ibe ii oceteat H tbej compij witb wbat bn beea aePEcd.
2218 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
To the seventeenth. That the agents of the Government of the United States told
them they could sell their lands.
To the eijg;hteenth. That it was Mr. Bentley.
To the mneteenth. That he was not notified anything of that which is asked him.
Wah nah ke the hah answers as follows:
To the first question. He says because he had desires to come to Mexico and because
of the bad way in which he was treated in the United States.
Second. That they told him nothing of the value of the land in Oklahoma; that they
told him of the value of his lands was $10,000, but that he was not to receive money,
but land in Mexico.
Third. That Mr. Bentley did.
Fourth. None.
Fifth. That he does not know.
Seventh. That he has not received monev. nor has he sold his land; that which he
has done is to propose (offer) his lands in OKlahoma in exchange for lands here.
Eighth. That he had not to receive any money, but land in this country (Mexico)
in exchange for his land in Oklahoma; that he has not received it — does not know
the reason why.
Twelfth. That if they comply with what was offered (their agreement) he is satisfied.
Thirteenth. That he has received nothinj^ firom anyone.
Seventeenth. That they have not told hmi anvthing.
Nineteenth. That he has not signed anv deed., nor nave thev made him anv noti-
fication or information as to paper signed,; that he has signed a document for the
exchange of his land, he and nis wife nere in the camp; that they actually have in
this place; but thev have not sold it (the land) and have not yet received the land
in exchange; that Mr. Bentley presented them the document referred to and they
si^ed it, placing the hand on the pen in symbol of the sigziature, but without other
Witnesses than the same Bentley who gave them $200 Mexican solely because ^ey
aimed.
Twentieth. That they have not given him any document.
Twenty-second. That no representations have been made to him.
Twenty-third. That no one.
August 3, 1905.
Ne con o pit answers as follows:
To the first question. He says: Because he no longer likes to live in the United
States.
Second. That they did not tell him anything about the value of the land, nor at
the time of their alienation; that he did not sell them; that he gave them to Mr.
Bentley.
Fourth. That nothing was said to him about money; that Mr. Bentley has to give
him here (in Mexico) a piece of land, when he may have found it, in exchange for his
land in Oldahoma.
Seventh. That he has not received any money whatever.
Eighth. Tliat it had to be an exchange for otner property in this coimtry, that he
might have a good place to rest.
Ninth. That nothing has been turned over to him; they are socking for it.
Twelfth. That he is content with this exchange.
Thirteenth. That he has not sold his land, therefore he has not received payment
from anyone.
Seventeenth. That no one told him anything.
Nineteenth. That they did not explain anything to him; he believed he was
exchanging one land for another.
Twentieth. That he has no document whatever; that perhaps when he may receive
the land they will eive him the deeds.
Twenty-sixth. That Mr. Bentley persuaded Uim.
No ten answers as follows:
To the first ouestion. He says: That he came to Mexico to see if the Mexican Gov-
emment woula return the land that they had conceded to them before.
Second. That he received 80 acres from Uie United States Government; that when
he H'solvrd to comn to Mexico Mr. Bentley made him understand that they were
worth 12,000, and when he »ipied the docimients they did not tell him anythmg.
Third. That Mr. Bentlev did.
Fourth. That he (Bentfey) did not make any Htaloiiientd whatever regarding the
amount of money, and they told him that the document he was signing was in ex-
change for other land in Mexico.
AWWAsmB or the ukkwaw mscmj^roo mtAxs. 2219
<rf Mr. BcsMky. joid he bcik'vv!!; tkit tkcy v«R gircB kiM •■
fd the hmd tfaatt he AmM wte^ir^ hen.
Has je jet be ham boC BBeor*^ tbe kad ia ezdhoaee.
Tvctfdi. ThttfbeiieDDUBt.
Tliet he (BcBder) bM o^ J tivvB fcM $100 rid. » ke
the3rlaldhnihecMld«llkBl»l.ieheh»dmr^htt&doM.
it ra Mil BcBdej.
Tint he TO BOC aoHfted ^a fem) «f flBjTthlK.
rifist he hm BO diw iiiiiii. Bor &b» he rcioeiwd tike pro^pstj.
Tw^aij-y^Tttd- Thtt Mr. Beixtiej irv&l hsai he m jjii^i^ tD <}6:aia per
sefl hii l»wL f-r t&e w^jt^ he 9^ji«d tii^ doozBHgdL
Twtmij-axzb^ That bo* OEie p^msidHl him; he thoo^kt of il hionelL
Acvrar 4, MSu
Tah pok fhe anffweff bf ^tISov*:
T^ i£(» r.rf ^*»«C](m. Sti^ s^: Thss die cnae to a^ niipm/ her people asd be-
CKase «o« hs*^ d*«rr^ su line- cs Mexie&.
:*^CRiwi. T!iai[<>&^EL<»'Tw>rkBie«'sift£iiBr«^theTili!K9 Isuiid'; tli^^didrijcf teflherfhe
Tn^ier; tiiat ^be dal Euot kB0>v the oxLUnti! ^ thedoerBf^oS. bcci »e s^zued it in Eo^
Fb* is 'srdo' ihas ^. Bectiey au^ gire her m piece ctf Sood m Moemo is frHwBge
fee BbOS.
T*KsrdL. Tlaat iJ»y dM Bot gpeak aKoct Mflpgir. txit that they wiwddgiye her a piece
of fasbd EC M^xKf} is exdbsBce ftisr k^7 fimd ia Ok£&!trcsui.
5Wi»iin£L, Tlsan wiL^pQ «£»- tciac£&?d iL£b<^ p^c. thf^-j sftTe her $300 sSrvr Mnicw;; the!
i^ tinid^»f?ttfiQd EH w!K £jr hicr to est ''Vit pr'^^TiasBtf \ Bot ia pajracst §fM her bad.
Niatk. TbiM kbe dc«» lu^ kz&sv that ss b^s bac beeB ^^tiwwA to her 3pet.
Tw^elttk. TbAt dke k oms<»U if tae? ckiirer to ha the faoid oAocd ha bj Ife.
BiaLt&ey.
Thm^i^siu T^c ^le Iibc boC rtc^intd sayihmg ob Jtffmnt of hod; that the $399
thtt aiiie saH w^<3» ^<^tL tu? her by Mr. Bedtley ^le b^Jievce vbc fer the facvoB Ae did
hizB in tisngfeing rii^e pi^;.
SpT«ii:.»i»r.riL.' N'o fsafiementf were Bade iefar&i|^ the razki 8« ««?IL
Ei2iii:<^^^^tiii. Huu «£Le thicoi^iu frofa Elo' ewa heazt tc ^f^xr^&ao^ 1u<t **^-^
^m^ifi=-r nh- Tbac ^<^"t d&i act njctifj fe«r cr ia&xsm. ha €si aajthio^
Twecrr-fixth. That r»? one pssoided her.
W^ p>ick we die wt^ ^i Wah oah ke iiba hah) aflnweg at follows:
To^ m^ int qoestsm «he 979: B^can^f**^ fSLe likes the cwiBtij aad heie eosSd lii«
S»r^ c<f . "niat t:h<?7 diii a:^ tell aer An vnhiae o€ the tiItw? of the fem-i* in OfiJoJirjBMi ;
tfear. Trh^n «fe^ am^^i in nh.*- «nizsp oc Wii. ;:>ak bo b? -qfiAh. 'sf tLas minkipoIrtT. Mr.
Fen^iky A-.i in.rh^r A=:*»rtraa "Ifcafi st*^ tT-.es -u:f. fcn»:'W were with her ^ the* time;
tiku: ^ s^zn^i !±.<» 'i^-x-zrz*^r;3 in <<3rier tbic Mr. BentleT BDght gn« her laBd here,
aa^ aaccej wie or? <XTiffl-i-*red-
.S^Tvntihl That as dbe 02* ihe toodi^ the pea Ifr . EetLC&pj gaw her $209 aHer
Me-xuran b^H'.anHv^- ^le di*.! hrmt tk^ zxrrr •'^c fc^nnii^ the dorma^sissz tliatt he did b«<3C g^we
her tfcas tc ^.rr.'i - ' -c riu* land, 'it; tihin jfce siS&t hare ar-detMng to eal^
TweLrJi. Tbi' ♦he is mtBsfieri w.'tfe. *:£:.» iB«i:ir.»Ta of her prrjperrr.
Thm^eenm. T^n ^ 7»t «ie 't.:i* r^.ft\.T»ii ni:nhi3^
S^Tcnseenm Thar. :io czie tirM her :inv!:hi!i:z: eegau'lm^ the fight l&at the ladiaaa
feiri to sal -4fcen' IhrA -
Xineo»iTti!ih- Tb-i * 'bej Ejcciie<i --r in:- mieii her of aetiiiag: that ihe <ice» Mit kacm,
Twentj-fiUii- That :» ^ase r«*r5nabi*i her.
Ah Bc ^^a hah i:::ah wJe cc N'e cin o pes arufweei ae fellows:
To^ the irsc •r:-*^.:--'!. Shj* asy? ihac ±a rame hen^ 5*"> «ay here with her eeiatrver
BESz! «ie ii?s.
SetKHi-L T^n -."--7 vti ber -•- rh i:iz vc tihe ^riiie of the laad: that whea Ae Uotajhed
I in EAci-r ? !;» Mr. B^nil-*/- zit* h^ ^» Mexicaa becaoae they wt^ifid <Eidianfe
Ser^nth :jce receired fc'a IJ» i:r ii«^r»elf aad imsfcaQd jctnttj; that dkt dees aot
fcacw wily ^ihas :z.«'Qey wae zr^eo. ^j ber.
XiBth. Prrr:ac»» Mr. B^n^Iey aiaj kacw thej .i: 3rj« kaow where it may be: tiaey
hare bc% Bt»:«rr*»i hl
TweifiL. Taa: ^2* ii cdueat if they ocaqiiy with what has beea acPEei.
2220 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS;
Seventeantii. Tfait none; that she is a woman who knows nothing.
NinateeDth. That no.
Twenty-sixth. No one persuaded her; that her own heart.
AuouflT 5, 1905.
Kilh ke nic quote answers as follows:
To the first question he savs: That he wished to come here; there is much game here.
Second. That no one tola him anything; that Mr. Bentle)r UAd him what his luids
were worth at the signing of a deed in Shawnee, and another in Eagle Fsm to give him
(Kish ke nic quote) other lands in proportion.
Fourth. That at the time of signing the document he did not know what his lands
were worth, and later he came to know that the value was three thousand three hun-
dred and odd dollars American money, which he received from the agent (Superin-
tendent Thackery) for the land to whidi he made the document in Shawnee: for that
to which he made a document in Eagle Pass he did not receive money, but they were
toeive him lands in exchange here, nor did they tell him the value of the latter.
Seventh. That he did not receive money in Eagle Pass for the land; that he only
touched the pen in symbol of signing the documents, in order that they should give
him land here.
Ninth. That he has not received it, and that they are still seeking the land that
they will have to give him.
Twelfth. That he is content.
Thirteenth. That he received the money mentioned for the Shawnee document,
and for the one of Eagle Pass he has received nothing.
Seventeenth. That no one, and he supposes the Government had given permission
for the sale of these lands.
Nineteenth. That they did not tell him anything, either at Shawnee or Eagle Pass.
Twenty-sixth. That no one persuaded him.
Thi the quah (wife of O ke niah^ answers as follows: "" ' '
To the fint question she savs: To come and see her parents.
Second. That no one told her anything of the value of the lands in Oklahoma, nor
when the documents were made in Eagle Pass, and her husband (0 ke mah) told
her that they (the land) were exchanged for other lands in Mexico and that her husband
arranged the matter and that nothing was explained to her.
Fourth. That she received nothing; that her husband received from Mr. Bentley
$150 Mexican; that she knows that ner land was sold, as well as that of O ke mah,
her husband.
Ninth. That she has not received it.
Twelfth. That, yes; she is content.
Thirteenth. That she has received nothing.
Seventeenth. That she has been told nothing.
Nineteenth. That she has not been told anything.
Twenty-sixth. No one.
ExHiBrr No. 134 [Goode].
lAii of quesUont contained in interrogatory fiUd with the first court of letters in the dittrict
of MondovOj July f6, 1906^ for Martin J. Bentley to answer.
1. Let him state his name, civil condition, age, and occupation.
2. Let him state if he was at any time a special agent in charge of the Kickapoo
Indians in the United States.
3. Let him state how long he was employed as special agent with the Indians.
4. Let him state fully the rircuniHtancc^s that led to the withdrawal of his employ-
ment in the department of Indian affairs.
6. Let him state whether his accounts with the United States Gov«'mment have
finally been adjusted and settled.
6. Let him state if it is not a fact that on turning over to his successor (Mr. F. A.
Thackery) he made him believe that stored in Shawnee there were several barrels of
lime, thereby causing him to sign a fraudulent receipt for said property that did not
exist.
7. Let him state whether it was not he who first conceived the plan to get the Kicka-
poo Indians to come to Mexico.
8. Let him state if, when he was agent in charge of the Indians, he offered to said
Indians indocementa in the form d wagons, etc., in order that they should come to
lUxico.
ATWAnts or THE mehcas ncKAPoo mus& 2281
9. Let kM maie wheiha, ma^ce he kft hk culosmcst af G9T«aiaBCBt Jj^ot^ W
kaf BOt aaide ercry cfiont pfwhif bf pniB»eF. biil«, wmd ^waiM m onler Ait &«
KKiEmry> shI <idb£r fmdtiiM ifagald cgom^ tr> Miexkxi.
Id. L»t isiim A|r if lac- hm Bot told tLfieir Kk-kapoo fiwifnw, <r ffsne «€ tkeB, tfcot
juDid i£at i^pT w^jz^d Xkot be oumfiieued t6> mad tibi^sr dbiyirfiB u* jKbtiiiCiL
LL LiCt bim ^^se if be hag #iMir*ui^gjd tbafe Ittdaaw ia tbor <iMRf9vd lor tbe bnn
jumI btti ^iflEiid tiiitifi& cA IB IftvikflHMai. dk4b. jad Tkioiof bhbaa^^
H, Ltt bia fiKT wbiecber »cs>« ^ tbesfr Ky%«pw» fnwlwBftf j(2>^ (>nL«T» bairizir rrif
8/. Mffixfj. be bM pos^/cid ia ^cmtmim^mig tben t& d«^piii& asid td2«^4i»«^' zbe do! j ca»-
«f(dtst«d ls«9 flEid JBstbantMS <tf bcA GOBBtna.
U;. Let bn sua«: if b& biB net i«id ^»*¥ ^ tbeK JBdiw tbat be w-uaid b«y tben
Uskdf vitfa*: likey cciobi id(Te Ji is^jpfK^ p^Kie «r bcBse.
14- Li^t bi2ii iiLisse wb€tber be hm ta^nf^ MtofEjj -rd tbieae fisidwB !<» ksoe boi letten
c4 pQivr^ 17 fiK^nr^js ^ jmofBe^r ia cadtr tbM be &%bt be able to da^Kee ctf tb«ir IndB
isi t2» llimJed S^joet^
1^. I>Hi hi3ii suiiA ick^i^jjfis as£j ^A tbtise Kk^nffm fpdwgff bsre d«f«sBUd mtmef ib
bif biBL*-!* 2Xi crd'O' tbat be mms€ f fa'fiiBiMd it.
IC. Len iinL SLsSe tbe loaiies cf t£^ TTyfihraif tbat aude awib 4<ep»oia&i i
17. L<tt baa suae tbe aiiWiiiMm* pertanriaig »» #a<b one 'otf ;bte liwSitaBnif
liL L€t boa fltxse vi^ ai« bk iianBCfs ia tbtfaatzcrfitf iJmt KAdJEapfOio ]
l!l. Li« bias fR^iifr life^ ccmcs and CTwiitMMii asBtfa awS vbote ibiiV are doaticikd.
Vi, I>et bi3Si sLas^ iri«%tiw be ic bbj ^>**'">^*' coBdaccd Ui> u^jcanre tbaa ibe OoBsrua
<.i ibe Usti3>ed Staa^ ^cvi^M proiaaecte a lav t» CBBcel tbe kfs! i»aakta&Eii- irom ciotaia
aJk4B^Hnt Itazidb b^^ucesxi? fiC^ frtTflfiiiif
2L Let bosi fiooe -vbat iziftaeBcca aitc BKd to <ilicaia tbe TiMiifig of tbif bnr.
13L Let baaa gate if it k act tma tihat awiiary bbi a«d to 'otnaaa cae ppr jnmlgitiQB of
aaid lav.
23. La bim gate wbetber it it act trae tbat be told a mbkr «f oae of tbe baala ia
isbaBiM«r tbat aH ista3t«r RiccisBf to tbk \asA irjHXi«K bad been tfiBck OBt of tbe bdl
i^ Labz&i&tte Tlinrli r if ir mrc b firr ffniff Tr jji f r Timif Fmi fbif wlff Man
djty.
2^. L^ bz3B fltase -vbetbicr it k act a t2n»«r fact tbat b*- aIjr»sai|T bad pfepand de«db
<..^ tcsziM«r fer ^EXdi:i'2r»;. aiad tbst jb^ -(kteidi. ejuxspunf obt, -mufFt dated Mbsicb 7. of
HiCI^. tbne darf ari.^ tbe WMfnTy <itf ibsr bsH.
j9t. Let kzni faj 2i a^ ks t^ fiiafHaa'tf -abfoa^ aaasMEs hSk^m ba^e hkhitimI sbnaifb bk
baadi MEj nEXjrjza <£ d>e fmsds ^>»iS««i la aaad d€«fdf <d naiaafer daSiHd at abo^re k
flEat^ed ai a -a^umd'^rssi':^ irjr tbe iai^
O ke stab askd bk -vi^.. Tlii due ovab: Hi dbe <qicab aiid btr birantnaaK^. O be mah;
IkML uit ke tbe bsb astd Wai: pi^fr-k B«<cbe, bk wHt:. KiA ketac ^ma aad Xe pab
bub. iaf^jriie: Tab ittb li^ea «i.4gi*: ., Xe ocw^as aad Ab Ba tbi biKb faa. bk wHt;
\".- le zi StL-iiIke 'qT2a£-
^C L^. tiiL sik.'^^ vh^xha be btf paSd asr wt cif iLbce aauummM MifAdatad ib tbe
J^. L*:n t.-JT-, fiLa.i<e if i^.-e ai^-'T<^iL»i^i.i^'.'i»Ha T Trfiiair ^r iimij nmt ir if t fliiir tbii irfBipnr tijBdf d
ajji -r-erv: hJlj aogoaixoieid viib Uj^ 2ik.i.'..f»- <Cijf tbe docmaaeBti tbat tbey w<fe nade to
fiiTSL
J> li^ idiL BUTJt wh^flr^ be f:LllT iLjide kurjmrat to tbe abvTe-flMS<siiciB«d I^'***«i«
or V. az:v '.ite c^ li^esiL li^^ afiiA':^iLU ikat v^re *fj[^M^iamd ac tbe eeaamdciaityjB or price
OC l^re ift^
». Len iin. gia^e -ali-^nbrer be issMj is^jcausd €aeb one •or aajr one 'of tbe abc^ve-
u^-'irdt-.^j^t IztijMza as v,' like Tahs^e <£ ibtese lazidif tbat tber veie alkvtada^
1-2 L<e^i Liu SLbie vL-er^^^tr L^e lu;^!^ ib^se aAtiyrf awrriiflyjiawi Jwlk^* <<- aar oBe of
V. --CL ^iiCrTfOLrui ihssi *iL«9e aIknM«est lawk ^.tf tbeos w«nr lotf fftat i^^a&i&e-
^. Lei LiH; fiLa.i/e t»^'.re -wnLOA c^jea^fif^iesa afflibtrckr cr li^al witsx^^Rs ia Ea^
Pii«e Le CM.'^s^ nk^ki Ci.'j'.'z.^i^^r:'^ 'A n^Mf^MX^jei «r m^ ilci* £«e aiip»^,
-:Z. L#« iiiL fHAr.-e if be j*r»*«iri^ ibftse 4iiCicatt«i.i4 Sor mtvjrd^ Mad ifbtrie-
L^. "*:-. r^:<e irLic V'^^e Lii xart£k%o xa tbe fi^ssr^kaae <^ ibtse laa^^ what aa^
zii z:Te iir^ -dcci^.-aie,
*-> l^T. :l.:ii sUkT.rr if le haf K.<if2 or iEfcffiirf«i»«L l^ ^fe<ju&i> <rf a diHwi ^o^ aii&e <» br aar
y^- Li^: im. sli-ia if. miiie i»e vai easufA^^T'**^ ae ifawkl ar^^sn irisb ti?*- It«<^t»^«a» be
ai7*>^6 "srrii. '.o*- L^kvit "ibs^»a£^ az; ixn.'rnjiiridiarTr. Vw* c».'-i»*r '«:^^ij'>^I3aaa-'.'aii -'jtt ii*e aHot-
£i>-^i!T -^ li c^^ruiLL Iiilia^L. Wa paata £k kaka. usad^ "ih*- ^y.xj^u^iiSi ibaii DaTk vi(»Bld
^uanaa^ rm. f i .^[IC^ cb ibe txaufiUskm id tbe ?
2222 AFFAIRS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS,
37. Lot him state what wafi his occupation during the five yean preceding his nomi-
nation 80 Bp<*rial agent of the United states with tne Indians.
38. Let him say whether he has ever been indicted or prosecuted for any offense
against the laws of the United States or those of the Territory of Oklahoma.
.39. Let him state if at any time he was mixed up in a transaction for the which he
was threatened with criminal prosecution.
40. Let him state whether since he has been here he has stated that he was acting
under order of the Government of the United States as paymaster of these Indians here.
41. Let him state the a^eement that he had with before-mentioned Indians relative
to the sale of their lands m Oklahoma.
42. Let him state if this agreement was in writing or verbally.
43. Let him state whether he has complied with this agreement in full or in part.
44. Let him state whom or who aie his partners or representatives in this vilfa, and
what are their powers.
45. i>et him state if he has acquired any land in this Republic.
40. Let him say. first, how much he agreed to pay for said land: second, where is it
situated; third, what is its area; fourth, were the payments to be cash down or on
time.
47. Let him state where he presented the deeds for record.
48., Let linn say if he still owns said land.
49. Let liiMi Hay who are the persons in whose favor are the deeds of transfer dated
7th March. 1905, that he made the before-mentioned Indians sign in Eagle Pass.
50. Let him state what relationship these persons bear t«) him.
51. \\ hat relationship does Ida B. Bentley bear to him and what retatiunnhip does
W. W. Ives bear to him.
52. Let him sav if he has not represented with insistence to the Indians that if they
would come to Mexico they could follow, without interference, their savage mode of
life, and using the powers that he had he would give them wagons, mules, horses, and
tools U) encourage them to come so lon^ as they gave him powers to dispose of their
lands in Oklahoma; and to further incite them to come toid them that the Govern-
ment of the United States was about to compel them to send their children to the
schools and compel them themselves to cultivate their land.
53. Let him state how much raonev he received of the Indian woman, Ah tha meh-
skah moquah, who died the 15th of I'^ebruary of the current year, leaving a child.
54. Let him state what he did with this money.
55. Let him state whether he deposited with any guardian or authority.
56. IvCt him state if he has told the Indians, Kickapoos and others with whom he
has come in contact, that the store near the buildings occupied by Mr. Thackery as
office for the agency, in the neighborhood of Shawnee, is on account of Mr. Thackery,
or that he (Mr. Thackerv) has a very large share in the profits, causing the said Indians
to believe that money aeposited in the hand of the person in charge of said store was
virtually in the hands of Mr. Thackery and that he (Mr. Thackery) would be respon-
sible while he knew that Mr. Thackery never had nor has any share whatever in said
store, and that s;iid store was established against the will and judg.nent of said Mr.
Thackery.
('opy of testimony of Martin J. Bentley ^ taken be/ore the fir it local judge of the court a^
Villa Muzquxz, Mexico, in answer to xnUrrogatory (copy attarhed).
Martin J. Hentley answers as follows:
To the first question. lie answers: "His name is as written: 45 years of age; mar-
ried; a lawyer; born in Shawnee, Okla., United States of America, and temporarily
in this village.
To the second. Yes.
To the third. Six years, more or less.
To the fourth. The agency established was suppressed.
To the fifth. That they were liquidated and settled, he withdrawing the bond he
had ^iven and gettinj^ his corresponding receipt.
T«» the sixth. Th«* lime did not exist, but that he paid a merchant its value in order
that he should (blivcr it to Mr. Thackerv, and the latter must have been satisfied,
as he has said nothiIlJ,^ m niuchso that he fias issued a receipt for all that was delivereci
to him. including: said lime; He observed that in that commercial house he bought
on Ixhalf of the (iovemment a certain quantity of lumber and lime, and as one thing
or the «ither was taken out by orders, on the balancing, it resulted that he had drawn
more lumber than was boupht, and less lime; therefore, the merchant t(K)k the value
of the lime to the excess on the lumbi-r, and a*^ he has .'*tated he liiu* pai«l the difference,
and his successor has been satisfied.
AFPAIB8 OF THE MEXICAH KICKAFOO DrDIAKfi. 2228
Toflieseren^ No.
To the e^th. No.
To the ninth. Ko.
To the tenth. Xo.
To the d€^enth. Xo.
To the twelfth- MfMt pontiTelj, no.
To the thirteenth. That be has re^reired funds from IndttDS to hoy them land, snd
that he has been with the Prudent of the RepaUic in oompasjr with the lodiaii
Wah pe che qttah tt-lling him about it.
To the fefOTteenth. Tl^ he has no fuch toedal power.
To the fifteenth. That he has had, hot he liaa now no other funds dian those depos-
ited lor the purchase of land and prirate loans lor which he has giren oorrespondins
notes.
To the sixteenth. They are Pequa, Kancj Pecan, and othen that he does not re-
memb^.
To the seventeenth. That of Peqna he had $2,000, American monej, the which he
has returned; of Xancr Pecan. $1,390. American money, that this also he has returned
to her, of Emma Garland. $3,000, that he has also retomed it to her. He dr^es not
remember the others, but to aD, as he recoUects, he has returned the deposts they
made with him.
To the ei^teendi. Here are his partnem The Mexican International Bailway, the
Southern Pacific Railway Company: tiiese companies are interested, becacise they
have given Lim an office m the Indian Territory U^ traffic, as also the MiaKmri. Kansas
and Texas Railway Company, with the same interest; that associated with him he
has piactically no one but the Indians, s* renrds the profits.
To the nineteenth. That outride of the laflway companies mentioned he has no
other associates other than the Kirkapc*-/ Indians who reeide here.
To the twentieth. Y^. he recommended that law to the Congr^fin^/cal committees.
To the twenty-^m. That he made }aiown to Coxugpnesi that the Indians were not
resdents of the United States and that they redded in Mexico, and lor that reason
desired to disp^^ee of their lands in the United Sutes.
To the tweniT-fie^x^Etd. That money was not used iU^^gaDr.
To the twenty-third. That he do^ not recoOect having Sad such conversation.
To the twenty 4ourth. That he can not reserve this, as he does not remember having
given any data.
To the twenty-fifth. That he bad no kind of documents or lorms when he left
Washington.
To tl^ twenty-sixth. That he is attcvney lor the Indians, and it is a que^ion as
between attorney and client, and there&re reserves Jitmaolf to answer this question if
he be compelled to do so b>' the judse.
To the twenty-seventh. That he has paid them money to all those who have made
trarxfferL
To the twenty-eidith. He took special pains to make them imdentand as much be,
as the notary, and the American c^^nsol at Ciudad Porfirio Diaz, belore w^im th^
signed the doicmnents. and according to his true tmder^andhig they were weu
acquainted. F'inheT. two r4 them ffp^k Enflirfi wdL
To the twenty-ninrJi. That as he has stated with specialty he took care to make
them know the coiiter-ts of the document-
To the thinietix. TLat all xmdemood weU the value, and he discussed widi diem
the total value that those lands co»ild bring.
To the thirty-frst. That thfise Lc^iians are the most intelligent ol the tribe and know
wen the value of their la^^ds by the unprxvements diat they themselves have made.
To the thirty-second. That the documents were drawn in Ead|e Psss bedtore the
President of the Border Natir^cal Bank, who if a nc<ary public That he as much as
the Indians n^^ks Sp^inish well; that another document was made before the Ameri-
can ':-or^«ui TTiihin hi^ district.
To the thir:y-thLM. The purchasera sent their docimkents to the United States lor
nr.^.Ti ii. th*rLr pr.p^r 'ii-^ric^.
To lie thir y-fvinh- TLat there were no partners. That Mrs. Ida B. Benlley was
a inrrLAser of \wo l^,zs and T*isid^ in Terumseh, Okla. . Mr. J. H. Evfrrest of the city ol
0Kl2ihrArA Ixri^t one lot, and the other lots were bought bv W. W. Iv€s, of Shawnee,
Okla.
To the xhirj'tth. That he has not sold, and is aware that three of the alk^ments
have been srJa.
To the 'JLLry-siith. No.
To \r.^ trJrty-^e-vfriith. When he was appointed Indian seent he was mayor of die
rity "if .S'LawBee, azui previous to that was eng^iged in the psomcODn U railway enter-
pruca.
3224 AVFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
To the tUrty-eighth. That he has never been arrested under the laws of Oklahoma,
fie was arrested by ^e United States Government, but they withdrew the action and
he was nfver brought to trial. That at present he is chareed with an offense that the
supreme court of justice has declared is no violation of the laws.
To the thirty-ninth. That he does not know of any, only those aforementioned.
To the fortieth That he has not stated it.
To the forty-fint The asreement is that of the money produced by the sales, there
would be given to them what they needed to live on; the remainder, if it were suffi*
cient to buy land in Mexico, would be thus invested, and each one received some
mone^r when he made the transfer of his land, and even up-to-date Uiey have been
receiving; that the land which mieht be bought could be here or in Texas; that the
lands that may be boudit will be adjudicated to the seven Indians in proportion to the.
money invested by eaoi one.
To the forty-second. It was by private agreement.
To the forty-third. That he lias complied as far as has been possible for him to do
■o; that he immediately set about buying the "Nogalitas'* lands, offering 155,000
Mexican, and had almost completed the purchase, and in the end the owner would not
make the transfer. That he nas also been in the State of Durango seeking the land,
and has not ceased working on this, which is his business here, and at present he is
treating for the purchase of 100 leagues of land, with General Navanjo.
To the forty-iourth. That he has no partner excepting the Indians: that he has
commissioners employed for the inspection and report on the land that ae may nego-
tiate for.
To the forty-fifth. No; onlv by option.
To the forty-sixth. That of the lands contracted under option, he has 31,000 acres,
undertaking to pay $9,000 American money, and another of 100 sitios for $140,000
American money, which lands are situated in the northern part of this State; that he
is conditioned to pay the value of either one of these properties cash down.
To the forty-seventh. That he has made no purchase, and therefore no deeds have
been drawn nor any recorded.
To the forty-ei^hm. That he is not owner of land in this Republic.
To the forty-nmth. That he has already answered this. (^.)
To the fiftieth. That one of the purchasers is his wife.
To the fifty-first. That the first is his wife, the other is no relation.
To the fifty-second. That he has represented to them the exact contrary; that he
has told them that to be respected by the Mexican Government and Mexicans they
need to be industrious and live accoraing to the laws; that he has never given to any
Indians neither carts nor any other thing of value to induce them to come to Mexico:
that some of them were very poor and had relatives among the Kickapoo Indians of
Nacimiento colony and he supplied them with funds for the trip; that since the
American troops came to Mexico to take awav the Kickapoo Indians these have had
an inclination to return, and ever since he has had dealings with them they have
made open inouiry as to when they could return to Mexico; that as part of this answer
he asks that a letter which he presents be added. (The which is ordered to be added.)
To the fifty-third. That he received $5,000 American money, $3,000 in deposits,
and $2,000 as a loan; that of the $5,000 which he received he paid to her before her
death $3,035 and when she died he owed her $1,975.
To the fifty-fourth. That since the death of that Indian woman he maintained the
daughter up to the time of her death in the month of June last and paid all the expenses
of her sickness and burial, also he has advanced some money to her heir that survives,
and holds the balance till Uie estate is probated.
To the fifty-fifth. That he holds the remainder of the money, as he has stated.
To the fifty-sixth. That he^ never advised any Indian to deposit money nor make
purchases in that store, and, on the contrary, they would be robbed if they went there;
that he told the Indians that he believed Mr. Thackery was interested in that buBinees
by reason of the great friendship he had with the owners of said store.
Exhibit No. 135 [Goode].
Interrogatoriei far Roman Oalan contairud in petition filed with tJie Juez de Letrag^
Monclova.
1 . Question. Have you had at any time any transactions of a buBiness nature with
Mr. Martin J. Bentley, of Shawnee, Okla? If so, please state what these were.
2. Question. Have you acted as a representative for said Bentley in his dealings with
the Kickapoo Indians?
AFWAntS OP THX MEXICAN KICKAFOO nmiAWiL SSSfi
Sl Qnettiaa. HaaMr. Bcntlcy,cr mar igfciaollai. acted aim wntfWHlitiiyqtfygqM
imw^oagcoSlKXkmisotMtooaDUdaeyoafiommid Kickipoo InmaiiF?
4. Qngirkwi Have j^oaeivr si sbt tine received aojlsbcfsaddieBBd to a^
flud Mrk«p» Indianp in your care?
* '""^ ■ — " ^ anT oi flua iHi«nT
payable to
5. Quaaoiu Have yoaerer opened any of caidlettefs?
€. Quacioiu Have yoa ever opened any of aid Ictten <
■y of the nid Indians?
7. Quesbon. Weie these letten opened with crvitlioat the cooaem of the addreane?
8. Qoeetion. Have jon erer indaraed aud checfca vitfaoot the knovied^e or ciaiBt
«f the aud Indians in whoae favor they veie diavn?
9. Qoc0iifC«i. State aO TOO know abom a tianasctkn of $M0 American Booeyvhick
oodured in EaA Fan aoont one vear ago with one Indian whoae nanae it Joae Maria
Garza Galan, whoae Indian name » Cld kna ke kah, and at which tiiiiitiiBi he ^the
ladian) was present.
10. Qaeetif^n. State wheCherthe Indian received the money leceipced lor cr whether
jon received it: and if yon received it. what did you do with the money?
(TiandatioD of al^ve qne^koe horn KngtiA to Spanidi. ac embodied in petition to
tot oovrt of letlcfs, district of Mondovi^ 3iexioo, by Mr. Anhor C. Ubeatky.)
ExHiBrT No. 136 [Goods].
repbf made Au^uU tl, 1905, at Musqviz. Maieo, h^on tktim load eomrt. k§
Romyuk Golan, im amnur to imUrrogatona aaikonud 69 lAe Jma de Letrm, Momtioia,
Maieo.
Ifr. Soman Galan itateo that hii age is 44: that he it married: atKl that he is a flMT-
isnt of Mnzquiz.
In answer to ^rst qucstiai he fliys: "Ab»[4utelynooeof any kind."
To the aeoozid qoesDon: ^Has never acted as Mr. Bentky's repeesentatiwe in any
Third. He answers: "Xo."
Fourth. He answers: ''Xo: what has happened ii that they have bfoo^t leoera
to him, and in his presence they have <4)«ned them and a»ked him u> e^tain their
Fifth. He answers: *'Xo: he has opened none. "
Sixth. He answers: "Xo."
Seventh. "Heisi^^t aware of any sochthix^.''
Eighdi. He az^swets: "Sometiix>es be has ind<«9ed some check< arkd cashed the
aune at the requesst and ocmseni cf the c we**? cf said cbe<[^LE. "*
Xinib. He juoswers: "That it k cen^in be went with the Indium Jose Ma Garza
Gahm. The Indian adxd him to ^o. as be wae afraid to eo alone. 10 hqoidale the
amoont which was in the Border N'ai>>cal Bank at Ea^ Faas, Tex., of aorae three
hundred odd doUan. The Indian received the money.
Tenih. He A2:=wers: "The Indian T^Mred ibe mcsiev pefaooally. paid him iGahm)
his tnTeliLiz exp<er.f4e?. ae azree<i up»:n. -n^-i Le does not kaow what ibe Indian ^d with
the balance. " "Tik€ iLu-^zjty was iati ^A indemnin- ior the killii^ of his brother,
mxfmiizjg :»:, 'Jl*: Lnii^-t's sui^ni€^:. He Lac icr a number oi yekr? ^\-aiiced money,
goods. ^£ti cr&di; v^ b&ib Xarirr^iei^V- ki^d Texas Indiana, ai^i iba: be carries accoonu
cnrreci wi'Ji rie^v ^: that when *J:<ey receive moDey he caebes the cfaerka, arkd they
pay him or p»y 2f.2i*e"*iinf en accx>uii:. "^
{Txaztfiatjon of above answers from Spankh to Kngtirfi by Mr. Arthur G. WbeatJey.)
FxHTBrr No. 137 [Goode].
OmcE CfT Registcs of Dnnw.
I, Ge-Tze Su.ije. reeisicr cf 'ie**!* ^A Fc4:awatomie County. Oklahoma Tcmtory,
hereby (.-ezziiy tLa*. "i^ ^i^.-exe*! in^^i-inseni is a true and ourrect copy erf warranty
deed DOW ,1. re^m ir. -.Li- .£<ie. in:h aii end^^isemaite.
Wiii,e&i: iL.y r,^:. i a:i .: seaJ ibis o«Odi d^y cf Augrist. 1905.
[seal,] Gsoeok Si03k£, Register of Dttd^
2226 AFFAJsa of the mbxioak kiokapoo ikdiaks.
WARRANTY DEED.
Know all men by these presents: That I. Okema and his wife, Thithequa, of Muzquis,
Mexico, parties of the first part, in consiaeration of the sum of eight thousand doUiun,
in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do hereby grant, bargain,
sell, and convey unto W. W. Ives, of Pottawatomie County, Territory of Oklahoma,
party of the second part, the following described real property and premises, situate
m Pottawatomie County, Territory of Oklahoma, to wit: East i of S£. ^ of sec. 24,
township 10, range 3 east of the Indian meridian, containing 80 acres, less the M. K .
& O. right of way; being Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 270, together with all
improvements thereon and the appurtenances thereto belonging, and warrant the title
to the same.
To have and to hold said described premises imto the said party of the second part,
his heirs and assigns, forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
charges, taxes, judgments, mortgages, and other liens and incumbrances of whatsoever
nature.
Signed and delivered this 7th day of March, 1905.
Okbmah (his z mark).
Thithequa (her z mark).
Witnesses:
W. H. Bonnet.
H. M. Fennell.
State of Texas, Maverick County y ss:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, a notary public in and for said State and county, on this
7th day of March, 1905, personally appeared Okema, well known to me, and Thi-
thequa, identified by Noten and John Mine as identical persons who executed the
within and foregoing instrument, and acknowledged to me that they executed the
same as their free and voluntary act and deed for the uses and purposes therein set
forth.
Witness my hand and official seal, the day and year above set forth.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet, Notary Public,
My conmiission expires June 30, 1905.
John Mine, being dulv sworn, on oath says: " I speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo languages, and I made the contents of the within deed known to Okema
and Thithequa before they executed the same.''
John (his z mark) Mine.
Witnesses to mark:
£. M. OSTROM.
HiRAH Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D., 1905.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet,
Notary Public in and for Maverick County , Tex.
Territort of Oklahoma,
Pottawatomie County , ss:
This instrument was filed for record on the 14th day of March, 1905, at 4 o'clock p. m..
and duly recorded in book 34, page 309.
George Stone, Register of Deedt.
Exhibit No. 138 [Goode].
Office of Register of Deeds.
I, George Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma Territory,
hereby certify that the annexed inetninient is a true and correct copy of warranty
deed now on record in this ollice, with all endorsements.
Witness my hand and seal this the 5th day of September, 1905.
[seal.] George Stose, Register of Deeds.
warranty deed.
Know all men by these presents: That I, Okemah and his wife, Thithequa, of
Muzquiz, Mexico, parties of the first part, in conh*i(leration of the sum of ei^ht thousand
dollars, in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do hereby grant,
MWWAOB ov ram imfC4y dckapoo BnnASS. SS97
tbmosflBdtiKappailHMaoeiti
lidetotbefluiie.
To hsve SDd to hflld add donribad pnaini nio tt» flM iMrtjr of Oie
I md iip%iii, toeirer. free, deir, and itiw^hifyid of Md mm alj famyr
lol"
nd dolhrcrad thk Ttfc daj of M«dl, 1«».
Tmumbuca (hcrx
H.1L
9m« or Tkzas, JToimiri' Cbva^rt 'i?
Beionmo. W. H. BoniieC, m mmjut poUie in nd lor add oma^ flad fltete on t
7th dMj <d Manh, 1905, poBmiUy ^ipessd O ka mflh flad Ini vttB, Thi tta qua (lo
■M peiaottBUy loKmii) ttid to me loiovii to be the idcn^^
the vithin nid forapoin^ iiHliiiiiieat end edkaovledsed to me thet tiwjr <
tbe woBe ao tbeir free and Tolontarj act and deed far the naei asd parpoai
aelfurtli.
UltJieM my hand and oflScial aeal the day and yrnr above aet fartb.
[asAL.] W. H. BoMR, JTotery FvMe.
My rnrnmbannn expmm Jnne 30, MPS,
John Mine, bein^ dnlv twom. on oath, atjnr "I wpeA tbe Eimlbb and Mezkan
Kir iujxfo Ungnagee. and I made the oontenta of tbe vithin deed knovn to Okemab
I Ufcae they executed tbe mme.'*
1cm Mocs (faMXBMri^
itomjvk:
E. M. OnmoM.
HlXAM BOKD.
Swam to and flobaaibed bflfare me tbk 7& day of Mancb, A. D. 1905.
[tcjiL.] W. H. Bojnnr,
A'<4ary/SfMktnand/orJU4R<rkifcC(nfnl|r, Tcil
Tkurokt op Okeahoma, Pottovoloaiif Cnmlir, at:
This inetjument w filed i^ recwd on the 2kh day of Maicb^ A. D. 1905, at 4 p. a^
aEtd duly recocded in bo&k 34 of d«eda, page 379.
Geobge SiovE, tU^'aUr tf iHtit,
ExHiBir Ko. 13» [Goode].
OmcB or RacianB or DBnaai
I, George Stone, regiater of deeda of Potuvatomie Coonty, OMahrana Tenitmy,
bcnrby ontifj iLhT ih«r jiiiU':v«d iststrament if a true and oonect copy of vananty
6*r^A vjfw on zht>A : \z. i:.is ofEce, v-ith ail indonmnenta.
Wit£)«aB my harJ «L<i seal this the 30th day of Angoit, 1905.
[iiaAL.] GscnaE Sivxb, KepMitr tf lk»i^
KDfjw all men by thcee preeieDta: That I, Thitbe(|ua, joined by ber hitfliand,
Ok«mah« r.*! Miu^uiz. Mexico. pOLruea of the* fim part^ m oonmdeation of tbe aom of
fiT«r tbc/oaknd dc^laif . in bai^d paid, tbe rwreipt of vbicb m hereby adknonledced, do
hereby ^ptZii. r^tfTain aell. and ocmTey unto W. W. Ivcaj of PoCtavatomie Ccpvnty,
TeniU/ry ^A OkhLjsax. pan/ ol the aeoond {lait, the foOowmf d<ecnbtd real prjperty
and tmmiMa atoat^ in Potiavatomie County, Tenilofy of Oklahoma, to wit: Wert
I of SE. i ol aac 21, toviHhv 10, EHfe 3 cnrt, of tbe Indii
33S8 AFVAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
•ctm, being Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 271. The «dd Thitheqna beaig tbe
idepincal person enrolled as Thi the qua, No. 271, together with all improvenxento
th^pfion and the anpurtenances thereto belonging, and warrant the title to the same.
To have and to nold said described premises unto the said party of thn second part,
his heirs and anigos forever, free, dear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
chafes, taxes, judgments, mortgages, and other liens and incimibrances of whatsoever
nature.
I^gned and delivered this 7th day of March, 1905.
Thithequa (her x mark)»
Okbmah (his X mark).
Witnesses:
W. H. Bonnet.
H. M. Fen NELL.
State ov Texas, Maverick County, $$:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, a notary public in and for said State and county, and
on this 7th day of March, 1905, personally appeared Thithequa, identified by John
Mine, and Okemah, to me known to be the identical persons wno executed the within
and foregoing instrument, and acknowledged to me that they executed the same as
their free and voluntary act and deed, for tne uses and purposes therein set forth.
Witness my hand ana official seal the day and year above set forth.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet, NoUary Public,
My commission expires Jime 30, 1906.
John Mine, being duly sworn, on oath, declares: ''I speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo languages, and I made the contents of the within deed known'to Thithequa
before she executed the same.'-
John (his x mark) Mine.
Witnesses to mark:
£. M. Obtrom.
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D. 1906.
[seal.] W. H. Bonket,
Notary Public in and/or Maverick County, Tex.
TERRrroRT ov Oklahoma,
Pottawatomie County, m.*
This instrument was filed for record on the 14th day of March, 1905, at 4 o'dock p. m.,
and duly recorded in book 34, page 308.
George Stone, Register of Deeds.
Exhibit No. 140 [Goode].
Office of Reoister of Deeds.
I, George Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma Tejritory.
hereby certify that the annexed instrument is a true and correct copy of warranty deed
now on record in this uflice, with all indorsements.
Witness my hand and seal this the 5th day of September, 1905.
[seal.] Georqk SnouR j Register of Deeds.
WARRANTY DEED.
Know all men bv these presents: That I, Thithe<}ua, joined by her husband, Oke-
mah, of Muzouiz, Mexico, parties of the firnt part, in conflideration uf the sum of five
thousand dollars, in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do
hereby grant, bu^in, sell, and convey unto W. W. Ives^ of Pottawatomie County,
Territory of Oklahoma, party of the second part, the following-described real property
and premises, situated in Pottamatomie County, Oklahoma Territory, to wit: West i of
SB. i of sec. 24, township 10. range 3 east, of the Indian meridian, containing 80 acres,
being Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 271. The said Thi the qua being the iden-
tical person enrolled as Thi the quah, No. 271, together with all improvements thereon
and tne appurtenances thereto belonging, and warrant the title to the same.
To have and to hold said described premises unto the said party of the second part,
his heiiB and aasigns, forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants.
MWTJOaB or TBE WESJC^X KICKAFOO isiajisv.
Suuv OP TEX.&9.. JfgTig'wt f3nnf«a^ k:
7A <inr rf Msr^i. I W<l 5»?r9rrm*_T- *^c»'a:r»ti Tii ".iH- cuk vaxz. iter luRtttac C» fc?- :
<%«& ^ipcSI kn:**^ x: ha . ijui v an-' £31: in v.- %f?^ -obf- '36»<tinaai poBKOf -v^ cKwiBm
Wuttaim JET lOEXii kdc vS^zai s>&Z *a^ ^isj jiahfi ytx^ ^^•('x^ 9>7 3'.r«X-
Xiftx lfrn»- ^ifTKir cxjj Fw:a. tn Tssa. '5^ir!xs7*F I fc*^aj: "i^if^ ^ffipiHr joii lleis^sK
•'dsfdt ft. 3L i^ii 11J7- r^f.-rtsfii :z, »:< ;^ Tiur- 41.K
L <>ffJM* f'Vtw. TvcoBor -I -iwf^ ^ P'.ca^PTiSi:cL»t ..i-jist. '>ctik ii*«»ftT 'i^raBj
wteemi m. "ana *t&:f!^ vrsa. ^^ «ai^:c3Knii»n:«»
Wkiwji irj i:di tati vol 'Ji^ '.iii»^ U'.riL :iikj vt ± itnar.^ l.t^.
farcy 'X ^sui v^\rry_ ys^r^ 'uii^ 5'.l^'.««~:2(| i«Kr.^i»i 7*9^ ;r:^<r;7, sshkuk ix IVgrA^mu*-
X if 2-. 1-7
2S80 A7FAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
State of Texas, Maveriek Countff, u:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, a notary public in and for said county and Stale. <Ml
this 7th dav of March, 1905, personally appeared TahpahtheH (identified bv John
Mine and Noten, Mexican Kicxapoos), well known as tne identical person wno exe-
cuted the within and foregoing instrument and acknowledged to me that exe-
cuted the same as her free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purposes
therein net forth.
WitneflB my hand and official seal the day and year above set forth.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet, Notary Public.
My commission expires June 30, 1906.
Territory of Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County, m:
This inutrument was filed for record on tho 14th day of March, A. D. 1905, at 4
o'clock p. m., and duly recorded in book 34, page 310.
George Stone, Register of Deeds.
John Mine, being duly sworn, on oath says: 1 speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo languages, and I made the contenis of the within deed known to Tahpah-
thea before she executed the same.
John (his x mark) Mine.
Witnesses to mark:
£. M. OSTRUM.
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D. 1905.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet,
Notary Public in and for Maverick County, Tex,
ExHiBrr No. 142 [Goode].
Office of Register of Deeds.
I, George Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Okla., hereby certify
that the annexed instrument is a true and correct copy of warranty deed now on
record in thia office, with all endofHcments.
Witness my hand and seal this 5th day of September, 1905.
[seal.] George Stone, Register of Deeds,
warranty deed.
Know all men by these pn>0c>nt8 that I. Tah pah thea, a single woman, of Muzquif,
Mexico, party of the first part, in consideration of the sum of eighteen hundred doliarB,
in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do hen^by grant, bargain,
sell, and convey unto W. W. Ives, of Pottawatomie County, Territory of Oklahoma,
party of the second part, the following described real property and premisen, situated
in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma Territory, to wit:
East i of SW. J of sec. 11, township 10, range 3 east, of the Indian meridian con-
taining 80 acres, being Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 241, together with all im-
provements thereon and the appurtenances thereto belonging, and warrant the title
to the same.
To have and to hold said described premises unto the said party of the second part,
his heirs and assigns, forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
charges, taxes, judgments, mortgages, and other liens and incumbrances of whatso-
ever nature.
Signed and delivered this 7th day of March, 1905.
Tah pah thea (her x mark).
Witnesses:
W. H. Bonnet.
H. M. Fennell.
State of Texas, Maverick County j ss:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, a notary public in and for said county and State, on this
7tli riay of March, 1905, personally appeared Tah pah thea, to me known to be the
identical person who executed the within and foregoing instrument and ac^siowledged
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO IKDIANS. 8881
to me that she executed the same as her free and voluntary act and deed for the usee
and purposes therein set forth.
Witness my hand and official seal the day and year above set forth.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnxt, Notary Public,
My commission expires June 30, 1905.
John Mine, being duly sworn, on oiath says: I speak the English and Mexican Kicka-
poo lanfi^uages, and I made the contents of the within deed known to Tah pah thea
Defore sne executed the same.
John Mine (his z mark).
Witnesses to mark:
E. M. OSTROM.
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D. 1905.
[SBAL.] W. H. Bonnet,
Notary Pfiblic in OTidfor Maverick County, Tex.
Tbrritobt of Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County , ss:
This instrument was filed for record on the 28th day of March, A. D. 1905, at 4 p. m.,
and duly recorded in book 34, page 377.
George Stone, Register of Deeds.
ExHiBrr No. 143 [Goode].
Office of Register of Deeds.
I, Geoige Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Okla., hereby certify
that the annexed instrument is a true and correct copy of warranty deed now on record
in tliis office, with all indorsements.
Witness my hand and seal this 30th day of August, 1905.
[sxAL.] Georqe Stove f Register of Deeds,
Know all men by these presents: That I, Neconopit and wife, Ahnathi-hackqua,
of Muzou'z, Mexico, parties of the first part, in consideration of the sum of two thou-
sand dollars^ in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do hereby
grant, baigam, sell, and convey imto W. W. Ives, of Pattawatomie Coimty, Territory
of Oklahoma, party of the second part, the following-described real property situate
in Pottawatomie County, Territory of Oklahoma, to-wit:
North i of NE. i of sec. 14, township 10, range 3 east, of the Indian meridian, said
tract being Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 259 and aUoted as Nekahnapit, his true
name bein^ Neconopit, and the identical person borne upon the rolls as No .259.
And the said Ahnathihackqua being the identical person carried on the rolls as Ah-
nah-tha-hah-quah. No. 260. Together with all improvements thereon and the appur-
tenances thereto belongin£[, and warrant the title to the same.
To have and to hold said described premises unto the said party of the second part,
to his heirs and assigns forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
charges, taxes, judgments, mortgages, and other liens and incumbrances of whatsoever
nature except.
Signed and delivered this 7th day of March, 1905.
Neconopit (his x mark).
Ahnathihackqua (her x mark).
Witnesses:
W. H. Bonnet.
Roman Galan.
State of Texas, Maverick County, ss:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, a notary public in and for said county and State, on this
7th day of March, 1905, personally appeared Neconopit and Ahnathihackqua, his
wife, to me known to be tne identical persons who executed the within and foregoing
instrument and acknowledged to me that they executed the same as their free and
voluntary act and deed for the uses and purposes therein set forth.
Witness my hand and official seal the aay and year above set forth.
[8BAL.] W. H. Bonnet, Notary Public,
My oomminion expires June 30, 1905.
2282 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
I, John Mine, being first duly sworn, on oath says: I speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo languages and that I made known the contents of the within deed to Ne-
conopit and iOinathikackqua before they executed the same.
John (his x mark) Minb.
Witnesses to mark:
E. M. Ostram.
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D. 1905.
[seal.] \V. H. Bonnet,
Notary Public m and/or Maverick CourUyj Tex,
TERRrroRT OF Oklahoma, Pottawatomie County t n:
This instrument was filed for reiord on the 28th day of March, A. D. 1905, at 4 p. m.,
and duly recorded in book 34, page 376.
Georob Stone, Register of Deed$.
Exhibit No. 144 [Goode].
Office of Register of Deeds.
I, Greorge Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Okla., hereby certify
that the annexed instrument is a true and correct copy of warranty deed now on record
in this office, with all indorsements.
Witness my hand and seal this the 30th day of August, 1905.
[seal.] George Stone, Register of Deeds.
wabrantt deed.
Know ail men by these presents: That Wahnahkethhah and his wife, Wah puck wc
che, of Muzquiz, Mexico, party of the first part, in consideration of the sum of ten
thousand dollars, in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, do
hereby grant, bargain, sell, and convey unto Ida B. Bentley, of Pottawatomie County,
Territory of Oklahoma, party of the second part, the following-drsoribed real property
and premises, situated m Pottawatomie Coimty, Territory of Oklahoma, to wit:
North 1 of SE. i of sec. 13, township 10, ran^ 3 east, of the Indian meridian, being
Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 250, containing 80 acres, more or less.
The said Wan-nah-keth-e-hah being the identical peraon enrolled aa Wah-nah-
kethahah. No. 250.
Together with all improvements thereon, and the appurtenances thereto belonging,
and warrant the title to the same.
To have and to hold said-described premises unto the said party of the second part,
her heirs and assigns forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
charges, taxes, judgments, mort^iges, and other liens and incumbrances of whatso-
ever nature.
Signed and delivered thia 9th day of March, 1905.
Wah-nah-kethehah (his x mark).
Wahpuckweche (her x mark).
Witnesses to marks:
Roman Galan.
J. A. Bonnet.
Consulate of the XJNrrED States,
Ciudad Porficio Diaz, Mericn, ss:
Before me, Lewis A. Martin, consul of the United States in and for the district afore-
said, on the 9th day of March, 1905, personally came Wahnahkethehah and Wahpuck-
weche, his wife, identified to me by Roman Galan and Tom Smith, of Muzquiz, Mexico,
ahd thereby to me known to be the identical persons who executed the within and
▲FFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2233
fcMregoing instrument, and acknowledged to me that they executed the same as their
free and voluntary act and deed for the uses and purposes therein set forth.
Witness my hand and the seal of the consulate this 9th day of March, 1905.
[bbal.] Lewis A. Martin,
United StaUs CormU.
My commission expires .
Terrftort of Oklahoma, PoUavxagftie County, ss:
This instrument was filed for reCOTd on the 14th day of March, 1905, at 4 o'clock
p. m., and duly recorded in book 34, page 307.
George Stone, Register of Deeds.
ExHiBrr No. 145 [Goode].
Office of Register of Desds.
I, Greorge Stone, register of deeds of Pottawatomie County, Okla., hereby certify
that the annexed instrument is a true and correct copy of warranty deed now on record
in this office, with all endorsements.
Witness my hand and seal this the 30th day of August, 1905.
[8BAL.] Georob Stone, Register of Deeds.
WARRANTY VEED.
Know all men by these presents: That Kishkenicquote and his wife, Nepahhah, sole
hears <if Schuckequah, deceased, Kickapoo allottee No. 246, bein^ her father and
mother, of Muzquiz, Mexico, parties of the first part, in consideration of the sum of
two thousand dollars, in hand paid, the receipt oi which is hereby acknowle^ed, do
hereby grant, bargain, sell, ana convey unto Ida B. Bentley, of Pottawatomie Gjunty,
Territory of Oklahoma, pa^y of the second part, the following-described real property
and premises, situate in rottawatomie County. Territory of Oklahoma, to wit:
North i of northeast } section 12, township 10, range 3 east, of the Indian meridian,
containing 80 acres of land, bein^ Mexican Kickapoo allotment No. 246, together with
all improvements thereon, and the appurtenances thereto belonging, and warrant the
title to the same.
To have and to hold said described premises unto the said party of the second port,
her hein and assigns, forever, free, clear, and discharged of and from all former grants,
charges, taxes, judgments, mortgages, and other liens and incumbrances of whatsoever
natuie, except .
Signed ana delivered this 7th day of March, 1905.
Kishkenicquote (his x mark).
Nefahhah (her x mark).
'Wftncimon
W. H. Bonnet.
£. M. OSTROM.
Skate op Texas. Maverick County ^ ss:
Before me, W. H. Bonnet, in and for said county and State, on this 7th day of March,
1906, peraooally appeared Kishkenicquote and Nepahhah, his wife (identified by John
Mine and Noten, Slexican KickapfKiS, known to me), as the identical persons who
executed the within and foregoing infrtrument, and acknowledged to me that they
executed the same as their free and voluntary act and deed, for the uses and purpf>ses
therein set forth.
Witness my hand and official seal the day Und year above set forth.
[seal.] W. H. Bonnet, Notary Public
(My commission expires June 30, 1907.)
TSKHtrOBT OF Oklahoma, Poitavatomie Cminty, ss:
This instrument was filed for record on the 14th day of March, 1905, at 4 o'clock p. m.,
and duly recorded in book 34, page 31 1.
George Stone, Register of Deeds.
27813—8. Doc. 215, tM>-l— vol 3 ^23
2234 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIGSAPOO INDIANS.
John Mine, being duly sworn, on oath dedaree, ''I speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo languages, and I made the contents of the within deed fully known to
Kishkenicquote and Nepahhah before they executed the same."
John Minb (his z mark).
Witnesses to mark:
E. M. OSTROM.
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th dsr^^f March, A. D. 1905.
[SSAL.] W. H. BONNBT,
Notary Public in and for Maverick Co., Tex,
Exhibit No. 146 [Goods].
Enow all men by these presents: That I, No ten and his wife Mah me she kah,
Mexican Kickapoo Indians of Muzquiz, Mexico, parties of the first part, in considera-
tion 6i the sum of three thousand dollarB, in hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby
admowledged, do hereby grant, bargain, sell, and convey unto J. H. Everest, of Okla-
homa County, Territory of Oklahoma, party of the second part, the following described
real property and premises situate in Lincoln Coimty, Territory of Oklahoma, to wit,
west i of southeast i section 33 township 12, range 2 east, of the Indian meridian, the
aforesaid tract is the original allotment of the said No ten, being Mexican Kickapoo
allotment No. 112.
Together with all the improvements thereon and the appurtenances thereunto
belonging, and warrant the title to the same; to have and to hold said described prem-
ises imto the said party of the second part, his heirs, and assi^, forever free, dear, and
discharged of ana from all former grants, charges, taxes, judgment, mortgages, and
other liens and incumbrances of whatsoever nature.
Signed and delivered this 7th day of March, 1905. '
No TEN (his X mark).
Mah MB SHB KAH (her x mark).
Witnesses to marks:
W. A. BONNBT,
H. M. TbnnbUi.
Statb of Tbxas, Maverick County, w
Before me, W^ A. Bonnet, a notary public, in and for said State and county, and on
this 7th day of March, 1905, personally appeared No ten, known to me, and Ma me
she kah, his wife, identified by John Mine, as the identical persons who executed the
within and foregoing instrument, and acknowledged to me that they executed the
same as their free and volimtary act and deed for the uses and purposes therein set
forth.
Witness my hand and oflicial seal the day and year above set forth. 112.
[SBAL.] W. A. BoNNBT, Notory Puhlic,
My commission expires June 30, 1905.
John Mine, being duly sworn, on oath declares I speak the English and Mexican
Kickapoo language, and I made the contents of the witnin deed fully known to No ten
and Mameshekah before they executed the same.
John (his x mark) Mine.
Witnesses to mark:
F. M. OsTROM,
Hiram Bond.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th day of March, A. D. 1905.
[sBAL.] \V. A. Bonnet,
Notary Public in and/or Maverick County, Tex.
Terrttort of Oklahoma, lAncoln County, ss:
I, Vic V. Crouch, register of deeds within and for said county do hereby certify the
within to be a true and correct copy of the instrument as filed in my office Marcn 14,
1905j at 2.30 o'clock p. m.
Witness my hand and seal this Slst day of August, 1905.
Vic V. Crouch,
Register of Deeds.
By J. H. Johnston,
Deputy.
omukss. 223S
^r OsLdiaoauk.
_ X^ s^ ink. «f iBPiri Jip-^ , ^ ^ , __^
1 SI' liitr TiAag -frf ^iimii in iht m\ iiJiiiiiiBiiiiill ^ ^awawL Oniu. at Ac- lante lat*-
'~%nrM7. BqpiftCT'apip AgaBMwit<iMiwfy Wiiwrfi ksvip » fura- kir ^- iif<9' ins-
JB aike imd^sfiKa^ /«!;;» I*'?'^- 3B MaA»(^ •» a ^imm\ t^oc ^x- ^^d 3K8 iB^*!B9T:i>ak€ ii»:
iii«> iPiff wyrrry a dnfffi ior 'i^ ttHf- ^T i29a^«r fi IkoA.: 'dxst k irimic 3iffic %^S har i
miKa^ laif' pen isii b»j^ is icr ^or %* %ifi^^ isk* saBR-. jedq dbf^ ttcia^^Mid i^ poir: litk::
1biis*v lias ^ii*- ini 9s&Q kxtt ibm^ aod 9& ise ar due v ^suiKi^saiAid ^k- izii6«7f<Lsajidf iIik:
As- fCkS 7mm 1^ bane asB^^fn^id «• ber JftgiLMrf -dno^iMsr.
Sb fax WLkM jba X aBBk>
1. T^muM "R"- JOi^rd. ii*TObr tJenaSj liaK I Ivi? obtosBt ikuKCfiiiHbeid jed4 f]^9j
Cmas. R. Dkkbov.
KDt viij*^ i**^ wsf "liittrr ne^^iz vm »'j«ri' Irnr
poor- Yi^je ;»*f:cnt 'rjLi latt iTiihKTfr Kiii i«^ liiraL viae liffx luKTif n, ^sa. "Sliss*
itmyr ^* ryj*rs *: 5»*nrJj*'T. l>si£lt^ vi-jf t^jsol liac T^ifr *Gm?»ff!DBKBfi irSl i'lrr^e
'ii*iir li-iii- till iH^ vtinf V. 'di.'w '9'ii^ii*'!' "ii* ^jrin»!niix«*iii: wsam Ti«- Iji^skis "V": «Hii
■-. a: t^iiT V.-rr!r:Liii^c:r. .''jix- *: pr.r>tic; -lih- iTiC^grif 't»»fj«»t *a^nr<aai jEti ^XJSd
tr.'i 'j^ S 'ii»*r vkj BZij'^i \*^ iiroit *: fli:c '-l^ Aa*i inn "Ui?- Iitthiimf mrh^ t*w^ H*
2236 AFVAIB8 OF VBS ttOSXIOUf dOKtfOO IHBLUTO.
ExHnifr Vo. Ud <Goo4a).
Tbrritort of Oklahoma, PoUauxUomie Couniif, «•:
Shawnee, Okla., September 9, 1905.
Mr. Chas. H. Dickson,
SuperviiOTf etc,y PresenL
Sir: In reply to yoi|r inquiry, I have to state I kave known Martin J. Bentley for
3ver ten years, having heen employed by him wkile he was in chai^ of the Mexican
Kickapoo and Big Jim's band of Absentee Shawnee Indians. From mv peisinal
knowledge and ooservation of his methods and conduct, I can state that lir. Bentley
worked upon the prejudices, the likes, and dislikes of the Indians. It is not generally
known that there are two bands of the Shawnee. White Turkev'c band is the pro-
g;ressive, over which he therefore had no influence, and was willing to accept allot-
ments. Big Jim's band is nonprogressive. When annuity money was paid. White
Turkey's band accepted, while Big Jim's band refused on the ground that if they
accepted annuities tney would be compelled to s^fiiQ^Pt allotments.
Mr. Bentley had permits from the Indian Ofllce, tta made issues of wagons, harness,
etc., to the Kickapoo and Big Jim's Shawnee if they would consent to go to Mexico
or to such who were inclined to that scheme. He constantly urged that it was better
for these Indians to co to Mexico, where they would be free from restraint in every wa^r,
and where the children would not be forced to go to school ; that they were not civi-
lized and could never be civilized, etc.
His moral conduct was especially reprehensible amons these Indians. Several
years ago, while employed as surveyor by him, near Big Camp, coming home to our
camp in the evening after a day's work earlier than the rest of our crew, I came upon
him and Anna Pecan in a very embarassing position, to say the least. He had em-
ployed Anna with another Shawnee woman as cooks. A child was bom later, and
it is the accepted fact among these Indians that the father of this child is Mr. Bentley.
This fact was admitted to me personally by Anna Pecan about three years ago while
employed taking census among these Indians. Mr. Bentley has taken this woman
from one place to another as a man would his wife; that Indians admitted she was his
wife.
Very respectfuUy, yours, Thos. W. Alford.
Subscribed in my presence and sworn to before me this 11th day of September,
1905.
[seal.] G. H. Blakeslee,
Notary Public
My commission expires October 27, 1908.
Exhibit No. 160 [Qoode].
Territort of Oklahoma, PoUawtUomie C<mrUy, u:
Personally iqppeared before me the undersigned authoritAr, Frank A. Thackery, of
lawful age, wbo, being first duly sworn, deposes and says tnat he has heen acting for
the United Slictes Government as superintendent and special diHburmng agent in
charge of the Absentee Shawnee, Mexican Kickapoo. and Citizen Pottawatomie
Indians since October 1, 1901; that during the year of 1901 or 1902 at a time when
Inspector CyniB Beede, of the Interior Department, was making an official visit at
this place for the purpose of investigating a reported shipment of Government pro]>erty
from ^e United States into the Republic of Mexico, affiant was met by Martin J.
Bentley, who wanted to know of affiant why affiant had opposed the appointment of
said Martin J. Bentley, as legal euardian of any Indian minors of the three tribes
above named; that affiant advised him that affiant had opposed the appointment of
both ex- Agents Martin J. Bentley and Lee Patrick for reasons given; that Martin J.
Bentley urged affiant to withdraw affiant's objection to his (Bentley) appointment
as le^al guiudian over Indian minors and stated that if affiant would do so he would
be the )^ei friend affiant had and support affiant in his work at all times, but that if
affiant continued to oppose his appointment as guardian over Indian minors he (Bent-
ley) would "fight affiant to a fimsh;" that affiant advised Mr. Bentley at that time
that under all of the existing circumstances with reference to the removal of the
Kickapoo to Mexico and the sale of their heirship lands affiant would oppose his
appointment as legal guardian over any Indian minors coming under the jurisdiction
AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS. 2237
of ttfBant'B agency; that since this conversation with Mr. Bentley affiant has been
continually annoyed by the interference of Mr. Bentley in aflSant's management of
agency matters in general, but more particularly in so far as affiant's management
relates to the Kickapoo Indians.
Frank A. Thackery.
Subscribed to in my presence and sworn to before me this 28th day of August, 1905.
[seal.] G. H. Blakeslee,
Notary Public,
My commission expires October 27, 1908.
Exhibit No. 151 [Qoode].
Shawnee Indian School, September 9, 1905.
Personally appeared Elizabeth Test, at present employed as field matron among the
Kickapooe {Mexican Kickapoo Indians), and has been employed in that capacity since
1892, and makes affirmation as follows: That during her service Mr. M. J. Bentley
was actinff agent for the Kickapoo Indians, and that from her constant intercourse
with the Indians she was advised by them that Mr. Bentley was doing everything
in his power to induce the said Indians to remove to Mexico, and that as the Indians
informed affiant, he was telling them that there would be soldiers sent here; that if
they did not go away that there would be war and the Indians would be killed; that
all the Indians that remained here would have their children taken away and sent to
distant schools; that he told affiant that he was going to get lands for these Indians
in Mexico, where they could be entirely free to nunt and their children would not
have to go to school; that he commenced to work upon the minds of the Indians by
sending small parties down to Mexico to see their relatives.
Affiant further says that it was a matter of common report and notoriety among
the Shawnees and kiokapoos that he (Bentley) had an Indian woman or wife, a
Shawnee named Annie Pecan, by whom a chdd was bom; that the woman made
no denial when the matter of Mr. Bentley was spoken of as the father of said child,
and she did not deny that Mr. Bentley was the father of her child; tl^t Annie Pecan
visited affiant at her residence several times; that at one time Mr. Bentley gave her
(Annie Pecan) an order for a sewing machine which the affiant had in her charge,
and the machme was turned over to said Annie Pecan.
Elizabeth Test.
Subscribed and affirmed before me this 9th day of September, A. D. 1905.
Chas. H. Dickson,
Supervisor Indian Schooh.
Exmnrr No. 152 [Goode].
Indian Camp, August f , 1905.
Ta pa thea, an aged woman over 70 years of 8«e, made this day the following state-
ment, in substance, to Much e nen ne, and made the same freely and voluntarily, as
follows:
''She says that she was the owner of an allotment in Oklahoma; that she was taken
to Eagle Pass, Tex. (from Muzquiz, Mexico), and there was taken to an office where she
was told to touch the pen (a symbol of signing any paper), and they kept urging her to
touch the pen; she asked what this was &r; without explanation, she was a^ain asked
to touch the pen. She asked again, ** Is it for lease?" and was ^iven to understand it
was, and she finally touched the pen. She was then given $300 m Mexican silver, and
asked what this was for, and was told by Mr. Bentley: "Oh, just for you." She came
back to Muzquiz, Mexico, and finally when her money was all gone sne found that she
had, instead of signing a lease, signed away her land in Oklahoma, and this is not
what she wished to do at all, and she waiite this matter investigated and made straight.''
Shawnee, Okla., September — , 1905.
The foregoing paper has been read to Much e nen ne, and fully^interpreted to him,
and he says that he understands the same. He says the foregoing statement of Ta pa
thea ifl in substance the same statement which she made to nim (Much e nen ne) on
2238 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KTCKAPOO INDIANS.
or about August 2, last; that he haa known thia^wofman for many years, being friends;
that he has very strong rea^ns for beliering thflt thia voluntary statement on bear pert
is true, althougn he had reason to believe, owinff to preasiire and influence that was
being brought to bear upon her before he left Muzquiz, Mexico, that she would not
make the same statement when brought before the Mexican court; in other words,
die was afraid to tell the truth, for fear of incurring the ill will of Bentley .
Much k nek ne (his x mark).
Witnesses:
Walteb F. Dickens.
Oliver Huhbargeb.
I hereby certify that before signing of the foregoing paper by Much e nen ne (Indian)
I fully and thoroughly interpreted and explained to him the statement which Ta pa
thea (Indian) made to him while he was on a recent visit to Muzquiz, Mexico, and ne
fully understands the same, and says that he made this statement to Mr. Dickson at
Muzquiz.
John B. Pambogo,
InUrpreier,
Exhibit No. 153 [Goode].
United States Indian Agency,
Shaumee, Okla., July so, 1905.
My Dear Mr. Dickson: ♦ ♦ ♦ There are a considerable number of the busi-
ness men of Shawnee interested In this land deal, and they naturally infer that the
investigation lias something to do with that deal. 1 am surprised at the miccoas you
have had up to date, and think that great credit Ls due you in estahlLshing such a good
foundation to work on. I most rincerely hope that the Mexican Government will
take action in the matter, as well as our Government, and believe that they nhoiild
be vitally interested. I think it would be proper for Mexico to refuse admission of
these Indians unless permitted by our Government after a full understanding; of all
of the facts. As soon as they have used up the income they would have from the
United States they would be on the hancis of Mexico as paupers and renegades, and
thpir income fnim the United States would not last long, as you well know, when under
the influence of Mr. B. and his outfit. They would soon kill off all of the j^ame of
Mexico, and otherwise be harmful. These things I say with a full knowledge that
if they remain in our country they will not be any benefit to us, at least for some time
yet to come, but they are now our subjects or wards, and it would not be right as
their guardian for us to permit them to make such a foolish move This is especially
true from the fact that tne whole scheme is backed by a notorious set of grafters and
rascals, who are s" -irt enough to deceive these poor Indians into their way of thinking
by misrepresenting matters t<^) them and by working on their sympathy and leading
them to helieve that they are going to a place where thev can forever have their
"happy hunting ground" and live as old-tmie Indians in the full sense of the term.
1 could talk volumes to you along these lines, but refrain from annoying you anv
further with the matter at this time Your letters arc ver>' interesting to me and all
are received with anxiety. Call upon me at any time for anytliing that you could
expect of a human, and 1 will endeavor to supply it. The folks are all well and send
their regards.
VVith best wishes, 1 am, yours, very sincerely,
Frank A. Thackery.
Exhibit No. 154 [Goode].
Memorandum of statements made by Indians to Supervisor Dickson at Indian ramp near
Muzquiz, Mtxico, July S4, 1906.
Copy of paper of Tah na the hah. shown to Supervisor Dickson July 24, 1905.
'•R»H»'ive<i of Tah na th<- hah the sum of $680, in trust, to be useil by me to l)»'st
prot*M t uthI ••are for the interi*sts an<l maintenauce and welfare of the said Tah na tiie
hah, this the 2d day of December, 1903.
**Maktin J Bt.NiLhr.''
AFFAlSe aw THE ICEUCAX KICKAPOO ISMAXfi. 2239
&0t fittas^ to Ike gqwitiM dbit Iftv auMj wm pud ker bjr Mr. Blikfldcc!, ite
cfroiE ii2 ir^i^vBee Jl^ncy, kr m Is^ «k^ ikat Ae gai f:W. asd gBi« k all t» Mr.
>dt^ jsad liiks Mi. Xce Osrk sid ^^ iriigitu l&sc litas nKSkpr. sad «i^-md ker t»
iSk*t 'liLbiTTtf lijji ii»€ff% k fldE d-iaifr kcr f3^^. sad lb*. Bom^ dbizntf ikss tka« k
bm f 13i Ji» ^sait 1^ liiii vtAaiBi < ikfr aaBooziiU mb par xkCA«ed pBjxikeia jot' jJI ki Amevkaai
j*i>t^«T? iktfi AekM waagiwi ifc>k»v» ike wkfiife, twUlfr. Bcealiey fc>g<ifa<eaKi^y gitim
kw A iari*--
Wa3bAo>iitkamlirfkffi.q«tkt-«Ma<e'-d»Tg8!«i<ids<Pike«B^
B^noier lAkjf care ^ is. H<^ jmA k«p8 ^ ikimiky «»T«e hsm msxMtj mt hit Jid^d kr
ih.. lin 1^ r^.>^T^ bid pM^tr imm Mr. £kimjky Mhf.mi lii^- zzt'.fSity. Hk- doiet ixn mmTT
l..«r ikk.T 3Ir- B^ttiaiey |3i-x -e kim «tij pn^*^: iluti mi»<^ b*- <-a.2it^ acnis v^ Madeo' kf kl
Mj. B^E^LkT' pax cms ice krm. hai 'dMS zicA kmcnr kcnr muKk: iksa Mr. B^Dd^er dicnred
^■TtE & bojk -mt^fspt h^ k'KTcmziS vac k.-ff»L Wk^i& kf maiFUtd Scr MfSKJO* kcr wkdsaiI m
^'xid xxiszQj lions?.. Jiztd r^n lui -(iatfr ikae $S3i&. AxEkfrkam msjiiMy; ikk infeF ikt' zacss tktt
iiTc^uiid sc- :ii.":>cii 11110*7-. *:• i^*- -m-tms crr*ff -uco fit«m3*7 iiid ^x*- iii» tke izrjraty lfi> lake
-r:k?«r c^ Mj- B<^iEni^ 2nix«e iiiu a p&per dbriniriiis' kcir nnKk fi vac Tke tubmsj warn
Mml u* Eaz^ Pa» . -vik^a*- ke ff<fciti»i'^ aiS tksa k^ Ibtad ^«fKiBa«l. Ifa-. Bcoo^ scss tke
lii lirt- -difitmA ctcfon m said icr siSd ^lOBstr azid Tcnn^cfj.
Maf7 P«L e tk&, ^ikdioiS. 7 . M. J. fiksn^, dtdcs&daaft.
Tir*- fc.V.Tr*^T.tfc.T7t*ic I'li^inaSL Mjffj P«e * ikci. 5cff L^y ca:i3«: ^ attociD a
FiTHL. TlxiL' iL^ siac p":a.iTrr7>'°: i» zicnr j^^id -tritf- la ike tmiet kt9««ats£i«^ stasacid a aocBH
iiAuiL**#i hZid f-i:! ii'T. li-.T r*!fcl. larutL cr iiifcM*r?nAzid ike EngMb koiri^ar^
S^Kr'.siii Pliu:::_:i5 r_nL*-jr iJi^^p^ iij*a tiL li**- isR dmr c^ Jin*-- IK^ 1^ -dflrrcrfd lo
■uli' -i iifcac «jiL -cc izs'Mi*fy LL**- asac Cfik^dh.TX M- J. B^mler. iktm astd iktB*^. ac tke
jui'^'r-: :c iL^ ;'ii.:ij:±z . jriciih^i iuiid j«£Tt»tid ic- d*^asi iC' tke <T*jdil -c€ ike add r^wrtiff
i^ atai Fir»r. ^i^ij.^iitl BiiuLX.
Ti_-i V^^is.^ ruTuLrT i4Z>ir^-* -±a«: «2id d^H^djum ia£kid azd irt«i«ft^ad lic» «xi€]caftie
ML^i zr^K *< reT»-.»*»^i :- lin irjf c-ejfH-i:": *add flain <£ iztf.^>ffy. cr aiix part tkereot, ia
*ik-ii.- V. io* ,'v:i. '.-i*r lzjI ••^rZj^fTi.. iuiif sdZI r^^widitf aiO *:4 la**- flUDe <kc«^ ike «*p^ <atf
: -:,-. ^.'^1 * y 1 ^- - :j: ^ »iijii ::*c*iiidfcz:-i.. i>*r- tii*r sad d-«S«^iidjai!i„ ■d*2n'-«»*d Vj ^^ mod
T'l: • '.z i. ;-•*-: •-'T -B 1.J : I ' r'-pr^^i+^^'.^t 1,: *»e u rw^^n ja»d «*a.*^n*«La ikaa ke w^ooM a»
:-:. - ■ -i^'i 'r,^ >: 5^ i>; ;- il^ Fir^- Nfi-^nis] Btzi v.- ike •rT*<iii •i^ li**- aad fikaaHifil.
•..: -• - -5L-ii :--i^r-J: u** a.zj'-.'' : \.*< -^t^z iijir. -li.- id'.«r*^iiiQd iiifn]ruii««Ba irkkk sod
: -•■' -■: L- - r-:':-i**^i:^: "..-. ':.•*: 2. t- ■'■''.:"■ i*- il i-.nii ii j.n»ii2flHcrr scni*- fQi3**id If ike sod
: - ' ii .- i. • ■ M ." 1- 1* . --7' 5'.r li.- *ii.j ' jijzi; •:€ fT .<<(•(■». n ■'^.'J.'j c^ ifiici *tt»id iasinaaiKWDa k
. ^.»^.- i,--i,- • til lzjI 1- urc^.i Lxl:' :'. A. " iLiid iriiri inadjasaniiit^in iii*-«ad jjOamxaaff
-.■^-r* - . y-r .n *m: «l31 i^^'i^^iiir'; LZJt L»ir»r i*?^iic*S5 ike Mci«e ii -tKnai;. iksa ^*e -did
Si-..- rii"v L-.- '^ui ii r-:k**:c 1,: 'tf-lt*:'** liiij: tadd iitprmin^^iji iritf.. or pnrj»m*fd iic» !*_
k jr:ciifT^ T' iiT.^ 5'c -.jj* re^ifcyii*«ii cid sod iiK«i*nr. ikiS ike j»l£airtn5 kae •o6«»
d«iiiiiio-ei "Lir: rrT'.T^L ^rf flud ixi':»i«*7, "»kki* ike •d-e'^gudaiLi ijcM a2waj^ Rffused-
2240 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
Wherefore pUintifif prays judgment against the said defendant for the sum of $5,322,
and interest tnereon at the rate of 7 per cent per annum from the 1st day of June, 1904 ,
and for costs of suit.
AJtUrmey$for Plamtiff.
[ExblbitA.]
17,000.00. Shawnss, Okla., June Ui, 1904.
On July let, after date, waiving grace or protest, notice of protest, and nonpayment,
we, or eiUier of us, promise to pay to the Mary Pen e tho, at the First Nationiu Bank,
or order, seven thousand dollars, value received, with 6 per cent interest per annum,
and in case of legal proceedings tb collect this note; or should this note be puced in the
hands of an attorney, I agree to {^y 10 per cent additional to the amount attorney's
fees. The makers and endorsers herebv severally agree to all extensions and partial
payments before and after matiuity without prejudice to the holder.
M. J. Bbmtlbt.
Exhibit No. 156 [Qoode].
Shawnee, Okla., September 7, 1905.
Mr. H. Dickson,
Indian Agency , Shawnee^ Olla.
Sir: In compliance with your verbal request of 6th instant, we take pleasure in
furnishing you the followinjg statement as to how and when tne Shawnee Townsite
Company came into possession of the SE. i sec. 24, T. 10, R. 3 E., of the Indian me-
ridian, being the allotment to the Kickapoo Indians, Okemah and his wife Tithequa.
The Shawnee Townsite Company was incorporated under the laws of Oklahoma,
and is composed of the following stockholders, each interested in the purchase of the
above-named land to the amount set opposite their names: S. A. B. Hart, $7,500;
O. H. Slover, $12,600; J. T. Cruse, $6,300; M. F. Eggerman, $4,200; A. P. Slover, $4,200;
Geo. Patchin, $2,100; D. N. Kennedy. $2,100. The above-named company began
negotiating for this land on or about March 20, 1905, throueh real estate men of the
citv of Shawnee, viz, Geo. Patchin and D. N. Kennedy, tne two last-named stock-
holders above mentioned, for the purpose of plattinjg same into lots, streets, and alleys,
as an addition to the city of Shawnee, this land joining the city on the southwest.
Copy of the act of Congress approved March 3, 1905, removing all restrictions of the
allottees above mention^, thus discontinuing their relation as wards of the Govern-
ment, together with the opinion of our attorney, J. H. Woods, copy of which is inclosed
herewith, gave us confidence that the title conveved was in everv way good.
The Shawnee Townsite Companypurchased tne above-namea one-fourth section
of land April 1, 1905, from one W. W? Ives, who was represented to said company as
the purctuuier from the Indian. The consideration paid by the Shawnee Townsite
Company to W.W. Ives was $39,000, $22,500 of which was paid in cash, and the
company's notes for the remainder, payable in three notes of $5,500, each coming due
as follows: October 2, 1905, April 2, 1906, and October 2, 1906; said notes being secured
by mortgage on all the land purchased.
This purchase was made in good faith, and the east 80 acres of said land has been
platted into town lots and the streets and alleys cleared at an expense to the company
of about $350. Since that time we have sold to various persons about 65 lots, some of
whom in turn have built themselves homes, some of these borrowing money to build
homes, by giving a mortgage on their lots.
If there was any fraud practiced in obtaining this land from the Indians this com-
pany was ignorant of the fact, and was not a party thereto, and in no way responsible
therefor, and a^ innocent purchasers ask the protection of the Department.
Respectfully,
Shawnee TowNsrrE Company.
By M. F. Egoebman, Prendent,
Attest:
A. P. Sloveb, Secretary,
Shawnee TowNsrrE Compakt.
Atiguet SI, 1905.
Parties interested in the purchase of the allotments to Okemah and his wife, Titheqau,
being the SE. i of sec. 24, T. 10, R. 3 E., are M. F. Emrerman, O. H. Slover, J. T.
Cruse, S. A. B. Hart, A. P. Slover, George Patchin, and D. N. Kennedy.
ATTAISS OP mOI MEUCJkm nCKAfOO miASlL 2S41
pQEFrikatfe April 1, 1M&.
Tl^ ^ .ciBtfHii: 60- OkPMnli bei^f fke cart wif httf of •I»tv Mrif if Kctkm. kas b«em
plimM m^j &JWIL to& aofd ftlym & or 7D kci ksr^ becK mid aad ax <o€ tbit pairhaeeB
A* iiMi m Mr B^fufey is caiMLtimtd m tks (!&«L wiA %a mj Aat we dt> bs< kwnr
Beniky. aai we se ignomrt pvdkaKn m tk» la»L
Ssjkwsrcx Towsiorm CoKr.&jrr.
A. P. ScoTKK. .Stfvitary.
&AWXKB. Okla., Afril U, 1X6.
TKm if Ut cirmifj ch^u I hamt exBuncd tbe ftbrtract of tzsle <!ora[pikd bj W, J. RigiSv
•terto'tier. iin*W<i»2e of April 5, MR, » ike SK_ f«r- 24. T 10 X-, raaa^ 3^ E- o# eW
Ifuisufe 3i«itiuz^ P*jCiAw*^criBie Cocxscj. Oklak.. aui a&s> tiLis part •of ch/e are of Cfm-
ggv:rM ^pr*>v^ Mjan!!iL 3, iifi^, tnmlrd ~ Ab act 111 Hwg Mpyi':^riMskjtt it^r cJb^ erzrr»&i
azui 'tjcnrngKLC exs^bsu «jf tbe- ladiam DefiBM^Tit, jm K>r niEfiffing ^arsois* cn^acy.
Am«:LL^jC:« witli il«^ Lidiaift tribi^, for dbe fecal jear CBdiBS Jasr A. ISQi^, jzui far
ccn«erparp»:i*e»," wiiir!^ readet as fclBows:
' ' T!a£ Ae Se*;Te<ary «o f dig- laCCToc h^^ mad ht m haetty , wMmmied wmd drnectedto
iKce pttCeiu:^ m i^^ Cy Okemak. sad bis wife, TiAf^^M, Wak aak keck kak. ?&>€<«.
Tak p^ zhr-^k. Shark «> «|iBik. amj Xecf^ofia, M<.a>fc<gg of eke Kicka|»i<^ trih^ ha^
d.tor^r iJli-.ctt^i LTL rb^ T«7?ttu.rrj of Oklakocna. for lawfit 9o> aflotted i& ckn m sk&J Tcr-
rt&^rj. ;uiii m r^.sznczjtjos m Gi> flh£e. EBrvabraaee-^ er taza£»B olawi lazB^ are httnhf
An*i I fnrr^ker rertrfr ckac said afcscract of cide. ib tymsmefrtiem whk abd art of Oos-
fr^#. -^Kw? a perfect inhr m f*»e fonple tt> s^d tirvt «cf lanri m W. W. l-r^sz zhM wkile
zh**- ptkr«»?a: «iEr^'»^i n«^ b^ mpsp^ by jke 9»4 *?« -^ •>:>oier*f» hdif ni^€ yec been D»»>»fL
wt- - -,hj^ isMnfr- :i*ffT>-* LH win r»-ta2e bart *n*i iih^e eiecTiSft/Q <:f cbe "ieeti of <rfjfii^«nrvajare
b V *>k>^m:iii An«i TIli &h^ ^isa prior iso eke oHoaiai^re of ck*^ pasceisc is eiscireij 7^il&<£ Br>c-
WTibfr.AniiiJ3^ Lr« •<'Xi»f!T3SA>a proor lo cke wcBkOce <tf tke pafieat.
!la. 151 [Gocdel
Tb»r »^.jXTCi*i»i«i.vra o» Lntcuc Arwjtna,
<it-r7itn:r » h^krks H. I>Dr:k»j«L has afkitd ike to write a ilirtcil far ^e camndesm-
HA'r.:ii£ rj»r^ii ^Eipii: jTii jtf laiiiiG mxerprecer fcsr tke Katkapoo Iniaaav is Mexii>!Cv I
^'*-r l: ia mj ■^•i^iiii-i .piiiii^Q. ji'er iwHKtne aO cke BesdaBosT as Umiqmi^ Mexif^. of
Ok^ni^iii ir.«i -jt-j: -. j« "wrC la 'h** •■.•dii«' lodiaas wka w«e onie tto sb^b f9^^ ' «!fee*if >
^ Ejizlr- Pidtf . Trx. . xn>i xa zhr^T rjkm.p Bfe.ir Mizx^Txiz^ azvi afecr tkrir}fagSyj «!aB.'TaflB€B|^
rJi^ niirr..^ w-.-h "Sii4 Iniiiajiit ac riieir <raaip ind ia Mniqnii tk«e if ai> db^iht ia niy
m : ".ii 'iuki: L :li*^*^ -i-r^itf w".*?^ ru/C expliinteti Gr) ^jt isB«i»i«>jt>i by a soiigle otue of tke
Intih^ntf 'I -ha^: ^ ih,»r InilLiiitf "^xr^^pc '^q»*- folly bela^^
fi^.^^l r^^e^ arjC tU/ A salie of zb^w laads^ bat to as mj i' i Mii ai to ex^kaa*s>r nkeir laat^-^
■^ *>kLk£ii/Gask f<-^r l:&nii{» m. Mex»!o: :l diaic ■e»ia«& of &ke laffiaBi* ojCiK*ir-reii rii^kz iJ^
L:~i<r s2«>Qtry wtutiik i±iej rec£:tTed WM 03) pifcyoaesK liDr tknr laad ^jw □& parr; paymi^os;
4 '.'rjjLT. -h>r wbijht !irjkni2sk:ta:a £rjI3i tite begmiifag to end waa a rtsp^sid&^M craisd tzpoe
V-*r7 'ry^i»rt:tifiillj, Hx3nrr C. Josxa^
2242 A^FAJBa OF the Mexican kickapoo Indians.
Exhibit No. 168 [Qoode].
Shawneb TowNsms Co.,
Shawnee, Ohla., September 7, 1905,
Mr. H. DiCKSOK, Shawnee, OUa,
Dear Sir: Have juBt been in consultation with Judge Woods in reference to your
question of yesterday relative to the acknowledgment taken to comply with the
Oklahoma statutory form in the transfer of land m>m O ke mah and Thi he qua to
W. W. Ives.
Judge Woods tells us he made objections to the other acknowledgments, and that
these other acknowledgments (Okla. form) were taken and put of record before he
would pass on the title as being perfect.
Kespectfully, Shawneb Townsitb Co.
Per A. P. Slovbb.
Exhibit No. 158 [Goode].
Sbpfembbr 8, 1905.
After on my arrival at Muzquiz, Old Mexico, July29, 1905, on next day I meet Mr.
Martin J. Bently. He ask me have little talk. We went in Mexican barber shop
and set down. Sir. Bently ask me when will he Sac and Foxs will get half their lanciH
patents? I said after 13tn February, 1906 — treaty ratified by Congress that day, and
extension is March 27, 1906, and he said to me: Now, Henry, when you get back home
you go to work on your people as I do those Kickapoos; we will eet their lands up there,
and we will get lands nere for them and we wul have supply store here; your son
Frank is good bookkeeper; there is chance make little money.
Mr. Bently done all talk; I said nothing, either yes or no. I am nether too old man
at my age go in business buy lands from poor Indians without price.
Henry C. Jones,
Ez- Member Sac and Fox National Council,
ExHiBrr No. 160 [Goode].
Shawnee Indian School,
Shawnee, Okla., September 9, 1905,
Personally appeared Mrs. Rachel Kirk, of the Kickapoo Mission (having been em-
ployed as a missionary among the Shawnees for about eleven yean*). She affirms as
follows:
That she is well acquainted with an Indian woman named Annie Pecan; that she
is a member of the Shawnee tribe; that she (affiant) distinctly reraenibers at one time
when said Annie Pecan visited her place ^the mission) that she had a little boy about
five months old; that an Indian woman wno was with Annie said that Mr. M. J. Bent-
ley was the father of her (Annie Pecan's) child, and affiant then askcKi Annie where
her man was, and she replied that Mr. Bentley was the boy's father. She further
affirms that all the Indians that she has ever had any conversation with, relative to
this Annie Pecan, all believe that she is Bentley 's woman, and all believe that this
boy is Bentley* s son.
Rachel Kirk.
Subscribed and affirmed before me this 9th day of September, A. D. 1905.
Chas. H. Dickson,
Supervisor of Indian SchooU.
ExHiBFT No. 161 [Goode].
Shawnee, Okla., September 8, 1905.
Personally appeared Henry C. Jones, who, being duly sworn, deposes and says as
follows:
That he was employed as interpreter for the Kickapoo Indians and was at Muzouiz,
Mexico, from July 29 until August 9, 1905; that he freq^uently visited the camp ol the
Mexican Kickapoo Indians — uiose who came to Mexico from Oklahoma — and met
APFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO TNDUNS. 2248
jBfiny ol them at Muzquiz, about 6 miles distant from their camp; that several of the
Tnd&ns told him, depone&t, that Martm J. Bentley had a \Ag fat woman, a Shawnee
(Annie Pecan), as his woman or wife at his camp near their camp: that these Indians
also stated that this woman was the same one that he had while ne was agent for the
Indians.
When deponent asked the different Indians whether Mr. Bentley really had an
Indianwomanashiswife,theyall said, ''Why, yes; a great big fat woman; aSnawnee,"
and they all stated and repeated that this was the same woman that he had while he
was agent for the Indians. They further said that he had had one child by this woman.
This woman was in Bentley's camp near the Indian camp.
Hbnry C. Jones.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 8th day of September, 1905.
[ssAL.] £^ H. Carlbton,
Notary Public
My commission expires July 17, 1906.
EzHiBrr No. 162 [Goode].
Shawnbb Aobnct,
Shawnee^ Okla., September 9, 1905,
StaUmerU of Joe Billie, one of the leading men of the Shawnee Indians ^ Big Jim^s barul.
Joe Billie, in the presence of Superintendent Thackery, Supervisor Dickson, Pam-
hogOf and Thomas Alford, the latter bein^ interpreter, makes the following statement
with reference to Martin J. Bentley and his association with one Annie Pecan, a Shaw-
nee Indian woman:
He said: ''That Bentley 's cohabitation with Annie Pecan was /generally known
among all the Shawnees; that while Bentley was agent for the Indians and engaged
in opening some roads that he hired two Indian women to cook for him, one of these
beine Annie Pecan; and that it is known to the Shawnees that he had lived and
cohabited with the said Annie Pecan as his wife; and while in the Indian fashion
this would be considered a marriage, yet at one time the Indians all thouj^ht that
Bentley was going to marry this woman in the white man's way; that Annie Pecan
afterwards had a child, which is generally believed to be Bentley's child; that while
at Okeniah, Ind. T., he had this Annie Pecan with him and was really living with
her as his wife; that he (Bentley) claims to have taken this woman to Mexico as
interpreter, when she has had no schooling, and, excepting a very few words, can not
speak any other language than the Shawnee."
Washington, October 10, 1905.
By some oversight the foregoing statement was not signed by Joe Billie, but, as
stated above, it was made in the presence of Superintendent Thackery, Thomas W.
Alford, Pambogo (policeman), ana myself, and can be fully corroborated.
Chas. H. Dickson, Supervisor,
Exhibit No. 163 [Goode].
Memorandum of conversation had August 16, 1905, with Mr. L. Alberto Gu/ijardo, presi-
dente of the municipality of Villa Muzquiz, Mexico.
He stated that he had the movement of Indians under observation for nearly three
years, and has watched the proceedings of Mr. Martin J. Bentley, Roman Galan, and
others. On the first arrival, when the Indians came they went direct to Nacimiento,
where they established themselves, taking up land, building houses, and opening up
fields, etc., evidently with the idea of a perfect right, forcing the local colon v of
Kickapoos into less than one-half the area which they had formerly occupied, ^e
local members of this tribe objected, and Macuat, the chief, went to Mexico and had
an interview with President Diaz, who ordered that the Texan (or Oklahoma) Indians
^ould leave the colony. From one circumstance and another he deduces that the
scheme of Bentley and Galan was to get these Indians onto this land and then appro-
priate the money of the sale of their lands in Oklahoma. The Indians having a piece
of huad, and in a region handy where game abounds, will not worry as to their title to
the land; they will most likely simply accept conditions as they appear.
2244 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Now that there haa been a failure to get the Oklahoma Indians onto the Nacimiento
da, comes the idea of other lands; that he suspects that what will happen is: ^nt-
^y will purchase some land and place the Indians on it, then let time go by wi|liout
^^curing title to the Indians till ten years have expired; then, as he will have had ten
years' undisputed title, he will eject the Indians, or deal with them as he sees fi^^nd
^main possessed of the land, which will have been acquired with the Indians' mqney.
The Nacimiento Indians view with intense suspicion the location of these Oklahoma
Indians on their lands, their belief being that these Indians have been brought down,
will stay a while, and then will be made to go back to the States, and will be used to
compel the Nacimiento Kickapoos to also go to the States, so that Bentley and Galan
will get their lands. Hence, any arrangement with regard to the Nacimiento colony
as a point of settlement is surroimded with difficulties.
He has well-grounded suspicion that letters have come to the Indians and have been
received by Roman Galan and opened, the checks or drafts removed, and then resealed
and delivered to the addresses; that he believes such has been a regular practice.
Bentley, Roman Galan, and Wah pe che quah undoubtedly have some arrangement
or combine to their mutual profit; that they have stringent objections to any more
intelligent Indians who may know how to read or write being in the camp, instancing
Will Murdock. A complaint was made that Murdock had badly beaten nis wife. On
Wah pe che quah's charge he was arrested and sentenced to some days' imprisonment.
It appears that he had gone to Nacimiento and getting back to his camp found his
woman or wife not in her place, but in a wagon with another Indian man. He snatched
off the blanket, the other Indian fled, and he slapped his wife. On the complaint
the wife was ordered examined. It was alleged she had broken ribs. She refused
to be examined, but was, however, and the surgeon reported that there was not a
bruise of any kind on her whole body. Bentley told Murdock that he would get him
a place at Esperanzas coal mines, and to the president he said that he was going to
get him over the border and deliver to the United States officers as a deserter from
the Army. Wah pe che quah stated to the presidente that Murdock is a good boy, yet
he does nis best to get him out of their tent.
Individual Indians might have the rig^t to come into the country and buy land,
but as a tribe they can not come in and do so without permission from the Govern-
ment. That under the circumstances even if some of these Indians individually
bought land, it would mean a settlement of the whole, hence they would have to
formally obtain the permission of the Gavemraent. That the Government being will-
ing, a piece of land near Nacimiento or elsewhere could be bought and these Indians
placed upon it, but to do this it would be necessary that they should cease to have any
connection or exercise any rights under the United States Government.
ExHiBFT No. 164 [Goode].
Memorandum of talks made by Wah pe che quah, Kickapoo Indian, and the President of
the municipality, Sr. L, Alberto Guajardo.
Indian Camp near Muzquiz, Mexico, August 7, 1905.
Wah pe che quah says: I do not know why my friend, Mr. Dickson, should have
come down here and bothered us asking questions. We thought to come here and
live, live the old free life. The Government (Unittni States) gave us land there. We
think that we can do what we like with that which is given us. It was given us, there-
fore we thought to excliange the land over there for land here; we did not like it over
there. W^e come here and we look around to see what land suits us, where we can make
our homes. W hen we have a horse that we do not like we look around and find one that
we like, then we try to trade for it. We come here. W^e have done no harm; we have
not killed or hurt anyone; we only want to eet some land to live on 'till we die. We
want to walk in peace and friendship with all people, and do only that which is ri^ht.
Mr. Guajardo says: Your thoughts are wrong. First, every nation has the right
to inquire into the conditions of life of its citizens living in other lands, whether they
are doing well or ill, therefore the United States has the right, through its duly com-
missioned officers, to send and inquire as to what you, its citizens, are doing here, how
you are living, what you do with your money, if you are obeying the laws under whic h
you live; just the same as Mexico would have the right to send one of its officials over
to the States or other countries and inquire into the conditions of its citizens over
there.
AFF.
or
MKHCAM
TmI
-vifs 3^VB fctxT^ saK- p^TSMma v«M ks^ t» p^ Iv the
t» t&oK^ Tfco adt S^ &. aSber tfa^ ksvY A0vm tint thfT* a
teoak^ yk*fBtam fiai0x;i.. wmd f» tnii!:!^— >' Mk ■ k ■ cxia
mil* '.c ^b*- Hz^.^ T^L^r.^ — ^7^91 ^aB boc W cbikhs «i t««» csoBCiifliL Wkm t«mi ksve
ifif^^ 3010% tjfitijzx^ tJss*- iMOtd. Tsm ioiv^ v> bald htnsfOL. psr tsxaiL aad ^bey ii«»- Isv aad
x^fL fsm e»c head, tw yi c— aac mid mma, liiiflr. Eaek «■«> vil kive to kav« kv
Wa;,»ilM6iiic<jyidfiMwifllafcwrwiBAfaiiMyt»Aem. T^b i» &e «af tint libe
0»^n^»rssi^ES r&B3ss««9 ife teiBR- 'd ^tt ckUpem. tint thfT* maj hanr^ i
.V^9:«F '7ir'9?w7^rn«*a9ii hdd wvdk B^. F^tOmr J, Jb^ra^ *si 'Sm Oidk&r <
MiimtL- Mkxko.
Hi^ si^ -Tlae XniiBiMitfii coiflBT «r fleokseac dflscs v«vt Iv bock.
t^ r» '^ izzi>^ ^^' JiaPKL. h^6k «> Cfcaris III «Qtf spsb. Wbem Ae Fv
liT-.tL "^'^ T-.k:Liri^fZ Xsrzvr: t^iev is kit kc vilk m ciencai pirtj aad Ae i
•se'tjiiXL^t V. T2U!: J-savz sTTiefxafiBt vfe Kid off a 0«aK patMB. L
'X i2r»s»rtL w vis2<dsnrm and ttte Osorv ^ Ae Vmted Sau» 4f ]
»x 'svts'^i zi i^LT porai^LJjr Isdia&. bsc if WM ia tnA bj i£e FtAeal i
I cssafSris^
piar
V. 1^ ':sw -X ^ut ■■'z-^iL somaee irsr IkradA tine i
^T «o*rf:r7» k <<xiL!it arx bar t&e kra^amd ipssft i
'jftl-j v^jr^^nt iz0t Ji^MT^aoK » per caabm^''
pjt-r Ml. Auxins ex^«<WE«J Ink <^fiiSika «l ti» i
<sd iuKOf d^ojosmi, mt decs tft» <
?p^ ^-rc '^ Tiif^r^- 2i;&k;» ibeiL Cxk«d $ia^ If tkey kad T«si:iQaLiiflj i
i^j^r* izji T-.t .jL--kr£Tr t^xis^Jied Uxkevi states ckizeiaiiip. k xiJilJbe 4
k^ JLi^ C4^«^fL o:c4^ -^i^/s frj^^ftkofM. waA tkcrr ka:v« fdOEMd ; * '
H<-' rin^ & J* i^afi be las loneeiad tkai ife gtuiai^ 4f 1
2246
AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
expended some money and has been subject to some annoyance to endeavor to get fair
play; that he has been twice to the City of Mexico on tneir business, the first time
when the attachment was made on the Nacimiento lands, the second time when
Qeneral Teran was ordered here to drive the Oklahoma Indians back. On General
Teran's arrival here he telegraphed to President Diaz twice and went down to the City
of Mexico, as the statements forwarded to the City of Mexico were not true. There was
no revolt nor serious trouble, but two or three Indians had gott^i drunk and were
riotous, but there was no general disorder and no need for troops. Greneral Teran
arrivea here and was telegraphed to return, and then he (Andres) saw the Minister of
Fomento, at which time there was a heated discussion in which he told the minister
that the only statements that he (the minister) had were those of interested parties,
local authorities- whose reports were made to the governor of the State, who reported to
the minister J that the governor had never made a visit here and from his personal
knowledge did not know anything of the circumstances; that all information obtained
from no matter what source was unreliable and should be carefully verified; that his
only interest in the matter was that the Indians should have fair play, and if they
have rights to be placed in the enloyment of those rights and to be cleared from the
chicanery and rascality imder whicn they have fallen .
He showed a manuscript letter from Iresident Diaz thanking him for the interest he
had taken in the Indians in having called the attention of the Government to the
injustice that was about to be perpetrated and he was requested not to let his endeavurn
on their behalf be discouraged as he (the Presidente) recognized his disinterestedness
in the matter.
Exhibit No. 166 [Goode].
Censui of the Mexican Kickapoo Indians taken at their camp, abaut 7 miles from Muzquiz,
Mexico, under Shawnee Agency, Oklahoma, by Chas. H, Dickson, supervisor, August 7,
1905.
No.
Indian name.
English name.
Sex.
Relation.
Age.
Aschaa Lunt..
Cleveland McCrcey..
Mah-teck-que-net-nee
Ah-ki«-kiick
Pah-mih-keth-tho
Kee-ah-tah-com-okexjuah. .
PeniKvpah-hora-ah-quah-. . .
Ni-ah-ke-poah
Kee-nah-ko-thet
Me-she-kah
Man-i-tho
Nah-nah-chi-flkin-no-qoah . .
Pem-ma-ho-ko-quah.
Ah-flone-he-ah
Ko8h-ko-(Ne-mah-ko-wah) .
We-ta-mah-o-the
Kah-pah-ko-koH]uah
Nah-kah-flkuok.
8ho-wah-kah
Me-thup-pe-hah
Wah-pe-piick-«-the.
Pe-Ah-che-that
Chaw-ko-8ot
Ah-waw-nee
O-que-mah-ah-them
We-fth che-kah
Panh-ko-nat
Wah-teck-ko-na-hah
Wah-pah-che-qua-quah
Ah-ten e-y-e-teck
Qua-to-quah i
Ah-flke>pah-kah-the
Mah-man-qua che John Mine
Nan-l-take
Pen-ko-iuih-ah
Tuck-kuin-me
No-ten
We-hah-ni-htth
Ko-sheck-ko-thah
Ah-to-no-quii-tock
Ah-nes-ahe-nen-ne
Mut-tuaHih-quah
Mak-mah-tome-ab
Ah-che-cbe
Chah-kd-tbe
Thomas Johnson.
Mury Noal.
Son
18
Father
Wife
60
48
Daughter
'///.'.do'..'.'.'.'.'.'.'.
Father
Mother
Son
18
14
12
24
42
14
Mother
Daughter
Son
40
14
13
do
Father
Wife
10
33
18
Son
2
76
Mother
Son
38
14
U\
49
40
Father
Mother
Son
60
40
12
19
53
Fnther
Wife
23
40
Stepson
14
43
37
Wife
W
22
43
G(i
Mother
Daughter
40
11
40
31
Husband
Wlto
20
62
68
winnnAW
JM6 — ConciniDs^
Jy^Om^tL
9347
'gmflnn rrnTtii^
« W^ Ul-MCI-CiUfc
4r Kul-fi^IUr-itl
♦ Mjr-fain-ifrt-ciUL __
411- lLiiif^ffi.^ckii*^i]iiifr-4-c3i». _
S 36ri^ 3iUlU«t-. _
S !!l«!k-»iiar-?iii»-*2iiir-»yiBil^
JH , ?:i»-i!CJ-<IBI»
Si E<*-i*i-iiiiia-«nu..4a.
S P^ri-o«uvj-!-!iii
Ji- ?Xrl-T«<-«to'n
IT m u\'-jui -,tA
» xA-^ji-^.ii - V i.i -.r Timiininli
W- .4„ui--.i '.--i.i V -iii-in
•B ?iv-iav . II ,._
-ft iLui--uHi-uia_-
IS MAJ-tiuk-cift-wJt
«fi i ?»-5ii-iiii-«ti«- „_
*t ; ?1ldHU4l-Cir-':UUl
<C [ ln.-«-ii;inn .
« j Wt&-9ni»ic-'v«*-'!l»-
«r t Sl.^lr€aHUK-yiiltK
« ' 3Ki»-5na.-[Ufcii - - —
4K ?-UL-gniiHiiBHi»Hca>J&« X^rs-
"31 Wftd-oaiiHCs-^uieHialt
H y^iii tf Mil fi>i nftn '^Tiaif .
9 yJBi ifWIHUfc^iC .
TS W.*»i-o«*-!i»— Ji«
71 3K<si: :iunuft_
:§l»9ani KiOiKwit^ ,
«.
EFtoihiioif
JT
?.
^'J»
Di
K-
r^cteTL
«
W.
wi*. „.
»
9
»»ta«!E
IH
K.
Jiin -
-»
It
ta
«aui.
IT
•ia
S.
WtOuv.
tf
Z]
9 T^if-43ie-«via|^ .
a ru-Q»iii-iiii» „
i( 4.i«c-i*-iim.i . .
JI
n
3S
lift
... la
LiXiA Witt Stirw. ..
ft "W^-gwHUii^-inai
S ?'»ii-J3a-i-'1iii*i-o«*ii-
«. ?«JMa-i*i-9#Mi*i
S P^Or^bs-CA^iHiie
M '58ria.-9«-in«-iiia-i
is ?aiiMi3-^i«_ '
fli 3MxHXii&a.-;;f»>'iiuui
fl Safl.Hiuui-^«-4a- .
ff ?ikii-iti- "-:a
» pTzn-f -•::ini-Tm an
Wlffiani ■tir-tivJt_„
2IL
an
DM
OK
-m
a»
iifl
Da
Uia
OS
nr
r^-^AAlr-OMUl
?*-*ais-*a-wi_
5«*-5ii.'v-"u*i-inait__
31>-aii.i-;:»i»i-g»t-yiu.i-
iA-filft-lVui.l '
T*^o»ii-«ii«~ia
!S^-ii»-^»e«i-iR-i-ina
StLi-i.'i-itm*!. . . - -
r.^-^Mr-ins
?^-*-aa.i..
?1ia.-IIUt-HllliJL
5*111 mji»»!i-
TP'K3F-gi».l-«HR
3C«-i-«-i-i-:iiu»i - - .
2MiiHifr-"-i^-:»fiii
5ai: laznor:. .
W*J3i4n-ica.-a]u^
X^'^a.^jiA^-iiiii,::
= 3aa_
•
»
— -]
n
s
F*fiMr_._
2r
K>t*u!r
s.
Dmuj&iiBr-.
2
, 3mi
,
OS
' F*CSwr«_
i
s
■rtiajBr.^.
im
«a»-
r«?2l«r
at
»iiiai«^__-.
^ :
«
4«m
9
gAtfMr.^,-.
4C
Kfi2i«r
.^ ,
m
Dwuc&liir.
,
a
imL_'
*
«
ffiSSiirr
,
4B
TfLstSSK.,,.
,
«
itm
,
»
masamt.,..
^ ,
S
M.
Soil
,
4
DaaaStJBT.
.
£
F*r&«r^„
;
maiSaar..,
«
V(Vti&sr
^J
s
Dwmimr..
j
Q»
.
ST
:
iP
»it2Mr_..
^ ,
B
*m-
-— .
•
D«ns£uiBr..
. ,
r«fitar__
i
as
■al2iar,...
— H
j»
■«i»n
J
&*MitfiiflBr
•i
, -.in.,..
a.
tea
,
B
2248 AFFAIB6 OF THE MEXIOAJf KIOKAPOO I]UttiJl&
BxHXBzr No. 167 [Qoode].
At a conference held with some of the leading Kickapoo Indians at Shawnee Agency,
April 10, 1905, the following statements were miade:
MUCH B NB NB'S BTATSMBMT.
He states that he had heard with gladness what the supervisor said about the country
looking good and everything looking healthy and prosperous. He wants Uie President
to see everything as the supervisor sees it. He is glaa to hear what the supervisor said
to them and is elad to hear what he says ''that agents are appointed to look after the
interests of the Indians." He is glad to hear that the agent is trying to protect them
in their rights to their land, and is trying to prevent the white people m>m taking away
the land from them. A while back they did not know whether Uieir rights were pro-
tected or not. Sometimes the Indians think that their rights have not been loolced
after. He is glad to hear that the President is interested in the welfare of the Indians,
and is glad that the Government is determined to protect their interests in their land.
All the Indians want is that they be not treated wrongly with reference to their land
which they are now living upon.
KB O tuck's STATBMBMT.
These Rickapoos do not know anything about their treatment in Washington for
about ten years. Looks like the Americans are not helping the Indians. When a
white man takes a word to Washington, sometimes the white man takes his own words
and not the words of the Indians. (He says he refers to Martin J. Bentle^.) 'Diey do
not know Mr. Bentley around here as a truthful man. They look upon him as unreli-
able. The Kickapoos to-day do not know what Bentley is ^ing to do with them.
He says he is probably going to do his own way; that he is gomg to get the money for
their lands.
He says that if the headmen in Washington thought Bentley was a straight man they
can not think so now.
He says that he feels as a tribe that the Kickapoos are poor — ^poor in knowledge, etc.
He savs that they have no money to hire a lawver to help us out of our troubles. He
says that the Americans around here get paid to help each other. The Kickapoos
here feel poor; they have but little land ; that for about ten years they have not worked
because of the constant turmoil, constant trouble that Bentley has caused by trying
to coax, persuade, and induce the Indians to leave this beautiful country. .He says
that Bentley is a disturber and a trouble maber, and he wants the President and tJne
Commissioner of Indian Affairs to help the Indians and protect them from this man.
OSCAR wild's STATBMENT.
The supervisor has come here to know how the Indians are setting along. That is
good when Washington sends a man around to look after the Indians; that all these
men are working for the Government; says he will be glad to see any man the Gov-
ernment sends to look after them. Says that the young Indian boys are glad to hear
what the supervisor said ; that he is glad he is here to look out for their interests. We
are poor now; the young men are like we are crvinff. Now, the supervisor knows
that it looks like we are going to get beat out of this land. Some men are smart and are
trying to ''beat'' Indians out of their land. It looks as if Bentley had scattered
the^ Kickapoos everywhere. It is good what Bentley tells the Indians and it looks
like it is true, but the Indians find out that it is not true. He does not know how
anything can be done to make Bentley leave the Indians alone, but it ou^t to be
done, as the Indians are in great trouble owing to his actions. He, Oscar, depends
upon the Government to help the Indians out and stop Bentley from causing so much
trouble. The Indians can not see Bentley as he is, and the Government ou^t to look
after this matter, as the Indians are powerless. Several of the Indians have heazd
Mr. Bentloy make offers to pay the expenses of the Indians to Mexico; that is, he has
made these offers to several Indians.
O KETCH E SHOW O NOW'S STATEMENT (POTTAWATOMIE).
He is glad to see the supervisor and hear what he has said; ^lad to know that th«
President and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs are good friends of the Indians;
says that the miperWsor is going around to see how the Indians are being treated. He
feels as though he is a Kickapoo for he has lived with them thirty-two yean; that
forty-two years ago he went to Mexico, but was glad to come back to tins country,
because Mexico is very poor. The Government should look out for the Indians ana
their interests, not only one tribe, but all tribes; that the Indians have but little
knowledge ana are in many cases very much like children and they can not take care
Awr.
mWXWTAM
»49
. sad ^loms the isSft wkicK
ksev v^oc K ifrinir wokt^ ^^^ *
ftwi«j
iBr com dbe
^^gfW9^i
Ktbtt 3Ksl ]i§ ^T^ad^ffj a).
jCina^DDikJ
Ai—liir-Cli*r-iaJ,--yiiitX_
JLi-ai»»-«it*-ii*n— Ti» - - -
JLi-on-af'nii
A2-aa-<iiUL-ai»r-y ijfc
JLJrfltai!-«»-catit_ ..
A-jr^wv^-aex . .
OsmOf-m-mB
\iLusr^-mn
"ZJu*— gmr-a
Tilllil'Oj^-Tt*r-T3lI— fc
Qxmufi-t— fidn— t^L-& -—
Gifuc-cftr-Cnia
la-*HCian_,
I-aeA-^m
-'inmicm '^ilitr-t
iaR-Ottit— <n— '3K^
Zc!R-ai«K]£'&i'^£iiwx
i»-gtm— H--oiuiii . - -
ILsr^'i-'VL'-^aL^mika,
t»-»JB-uimi_' —
iLjan.-<B-'7ii!*'cniiis
ItWl— C3r-i^-til_
Moki— naii-^i— 2u?-«l
Mail— nuii— uuir-»a«!
ILfci— Din-%ai*-«i£
M*£l-*U1»-«1
KuX-Jp^»4IZ(!-*^
a
31
7 >tfe"yiiiHn» ■
Jtiil-TEMI-OTa-
Mrt-cnxn-yt-oiiO
M~ -^f-nan
V4A'^-^it.i.— '!ni»-4tnTT— ^^t^»ntmT
"«K.ir<naii— JiK-^iii^-giU4ir — -
u&t^ns^i
2260
AFFA1B8 or THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Bttitmtnt <^ fundi paU to Ah^ht^kt, Jfecioon Kiekapoo allottee No. 141,
Date.
Check No.
^llDotlllt.
Jan. 31. 1902
LBA8B ACCOUKT.
370780
301906
332254
332264
416n0
416700
187.50
Aug. I, 1002
37.50
Jan. 3D, 1903
126.00
Mar. 31, 19(M t
37 60
May 12, 1904 - ,
126.00
'Do
76.00
Jan. 13, 1904
150 00
Nov. 7, 1906
76.00
Total •■ ...
662 60
ANlfUITY Accouirr.
If AF 21 . IflTH ohM*V
21 30
1)00.6, 1902, check
'il.30
iJov. 14. 19M. warrant (Eaffin Pams) !
261 70
Total
304.30
Oiand total
966 80
APTAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO ntDIANS.
2251
Statement offurub paid to Ah-kis-huch, Mexican Kickqpoo allottee No, 6.
Date.
Check No. Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jftn. 1,1902
Jan. 24. 1902
Do
Aug. 1,1902
Do
Do
Aug. 5. 1902
Jan. 19, 1903
Jan. 26, 1903
Do
Jan. 30, 1903
liar. 28. 1903
July 18. 1903
July 20. 1903
Do
July 24, 1903
Feb. 6. 1904
Do
July 18, 1904
July I«. 1904
July 22. 1904
Sept. 26. 1906. cash.
Sept. 29, 1906. cash.
90407
99406
60793
60795
60<95
276141
276338
2^6412
276412
276781
301992
302063
302084
300065
302140
332150
3321i.9
328154
382154
382175
Total.
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIB OF WAW-THES-KAH-MO-QUAH.
Sept. 29. 1906.
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Mar. 30. 1907..
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Apr. 15, 1907..
Do
120
121
122
123
124
125
191
192
193
194
105
196
198
Total.
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mar. 21. 1902. check
Dec. 5. 1902. check
Nov. 16. 1903. check
Nov. 14. 1906. warrant No. 13216.
Total
Grand total.
tl.OO
42.60
35.00
35.00
42.50
10.00
21.25
35.00
42.50
160.00
80.00
21.26
116.00
6.00
36.00
80.00
116.00
115.00
10.00
35.00
195.00
115.00
57.00
1.403.50
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
100.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
8.71
50.00
200.00
468.71
63.25
63.25
53.26
814.06
973.80
2,886.01
2252
APTAIBS OV THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO UTOIAKS.
SUOemeta <tffut»d$ pmd to Ah-ke-Tta-ma-tho, Mtxiatn Kiebapoo allottee No. 277.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Jan. 24, 1902
LKA8E ACCOUNT.
09898
86140
276119
276120
276161
276318
276310
276825
302098
331586
332204
332317
382601
382692
416540
416540
416654
620340
182.60
16.00
32.60
Febr. 7, 1902
Ang. 5, 1902
Do
16.00
Ang. 9, 1902
0.00
Jan. 10, 1903
82.60
Do
16.00
Febr. 7, 1903
16.00
Jnly 21, 1903
82.60
15.00
Aug. 3, 1903
Apr. 4, 1904
70.00
July 6, 1904
35.00
July 11, 1904
86.00
Jan. 26, 1905
00.00
Do
86.00
July 24, 1906
70.00
July 1, 1906
86.00
Aug. 23, 1906
8&00
Aug. 30, 1906
60.00
Total
740lOO
ACCOUNT -HEIR OF MA-TIN-A-YA.
DEED
Nov. 3, 1906, check
10.00
Do
'
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do
10.00
Do - ---
10.00
Total
120.00
Grand total
860 00
Statement of funds paid to Ah-nahshe-wah-to^ or Tom Smithy Mexican Kickapoo allottee
No, 61.
Date,
Check No.
Amount. 1
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 31, 1902
86002
60618
276440
301994
332252
382839
416454
17.60
Aug. 1, 1902
16.00
Jan. 30, llXXi
15.00
Mch. 19, 190«
42 50
Mav 12. 1903
330.00
June 15, 1906
46.00
Julv 6. 1906
30.00
Total
185.00
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF NAH-PAH NAH.
June 15, 1905, chock
487.88
Total
437.88
ANNUmr ACCOUNT.
M<}h 21, ion?, rh«^k
10.65
Dec. 6, 1902, check
ia65
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13220 (Eagle Paas)
351.15
Total
872.45
Qimnd total
00178
2353
^^A-*.
„tL^wtm^
m
¥/^^i
xEidrnttm^Mmui 3Sm,t»,
Dn
PI
2264
AFFAnUS or XHB ICEXIOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
m
StaUmmt of fundi paid to Afi^n/o4hah'h&^VLa, Mexican Kiekapoo alloUee No. 185.
▲mrUITT ACCOUNT. .
Not. 14, 1906, wArrant No. 13244 (Bagto Pam) 1260.71
ToUl 260.71
[•]
StaUmerU of fundi paid to Ah-ten-ye-tuck^ Mexican Kiekapoo dUottu No, 74.
Date.
GhaokNo.
Amount.
Jan. 31, 1902
LKABE ACCOUNT.
80008
60617
378736
331608
331831
382833
416776
416446
030.00
Aug. 1, 1902
60.00
Jan. 86, 1003
60.00
Aug. 5, 1903
68.00
Jan. 18, 19^4
100.00
Jan. 16', 1906
100.00
Jan. 13, 1006
60.00
June 26, 1906
60.00
Total
47a 00
Statement offund$ paid to Ah-them-e*t-taK-mo, Mexican Kiekapoo allottu No. 181.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LBABB ACCOUNT.
Aw. 1.1902
276072
276396
276836
802100
832180
882348
888710
860.00
Jan. 26, 1903
fiO.OO
PM.11,1903
4&00
July 21, 1903
fi0.00
r»D.22, 1904
62.60
Jl^l6, 1904
63.60
^.4,1906
62.60
Total
882.80
DEED ACCOUNT-HSn OF KB-AH^QUA-BUCK.
Fab. 3, 1004. oaah
6,288.80
Total
6,288.80
ANNUITT ACCOUNT.
Dm. 6, 1002. Check
10.06
Not. i6, 1008, check
10.66
Not. 16, 1004. check
10.66
Total
81.06
Grandtotal
6,708.84
AlFi
nu
tX55
r JKiL^liL
CteKicKi.
iitfx.:a. .iMi.
Dn.. ^
jfad^ J; ijIB. „ „ „ „
xm? lift, mile
iWBilS. QHf
Ta»4
r»ii» JO. liMUL lOmic „
Ith? JO. :iiiifi..<ini«!a;
mnSB «MLI7
i3CS
UK -A*
niLA'
C^naiA^.
roiut Qoat
dflbiaK J^ l^tfL
Jfa- .
I^AvmSI. jalcaiURL
JiH.lL JMO
Ukl & m
WucL L jm
£at.t9
ISILA'
JdRRZX9BT JBlCOmnL
2BIL3K'
«&ttMr JKfc.J6u
jiK. JL am -
■ttBSuTS-'
roaii.
[Mi
^J««*]
• Jiir^at.
2266
A7FAIBS 07 THE MEXICAN KICKAFOO INDIANS.
StaUmerU of funds paid to Choh-dia-ha-the^f Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. tSO.
ANinnTT ACCOUMT.
Deo. 5. 1902. eheok tlCfiS
Nov. 18, 1903. ohmk 10.66
Nov. 14. 1904.eheok 14.91
Not. 14, 1906. warrant No. 14209 (Eagle Paee) 261.71
Total 297.92
[16]
SUUemerU of funds paid to Cooh-horthah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 98.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Jan. 24, 1902
LEASE ACCOUNT.
90388
99380
276246
276772
302134
3316n
fiaoo
Do
23.00
Sept. 11. 1902
23.00
Jan. 27, 1903
83.00
Jaly24. 1903
laoo
Ang. 18, 1903
23.00
Total
122.00
[IT]
Statement of funds paid to En-e-hohn, Mexwm Kickapoo allottee No. Hi.
ANKUITT ACCOUNT.
Moh. 21, 1902. check $10.ii5
Dee. 6, 1902. check 10. C5
Hot. 16^ 1908, check iocs
Total 31.95
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIB OF PA-NAH-WAR.
Johb 16. 1906. Check 10.00
July 20. 1906, check ^ 10.00
June 15. 1905. check 10.00
July 16, 1906. check 10.00
Aim. 20. 1905. check 10.00
BiSt. 20, 1906, check 10.00
OoL 20. 1906. check 10.00
Not. 20. 1906, check 10.00
Dto. 20, 1906, check laOO
Total oaoo
Osand total m.96
i*5T
JGpuJSX.
Dn.
Sn-
. 31. 21
1.9
1.S
rs
309 j^zcatrwt—
JMT IC^ 2M3 ^sauft^.
: fm Vj.V^.*»«L&S-SL»-VaK.
.£^29tt. i
AipLa I3n.<sa
MEici XT 3H6. Ttnwy..
▲9r «. 29116. <!iiadr...
.&ac IL 2H6. !iBKiE..
JSBft JO. 2M6. •SfifiKK. .
lat? 2n. 2M6. ssflfjc. .
Cnk. 1 2W2. tllMUC
jLS3RnsT Atrfsinrt.
^aodsoSA^.
2258 AJTFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Statement qf funds paid to WiUard Johnston —
Af Lkul Ouaedxan or Wah-pk-puck-b.
DIBD ACCOUHT.
[Am heir of Pah-pe-ihlok.]
Dm. 4, 1908, OMh 18,438.38
Total 8,438.88
As Lboal Ouabdian op Pash-ko-not.
[Am hfllr of Pah-pe-ihick.]
PW. 4, 1908, OMh 8,438.88
[At heir of Me-thah-pe-qoah. ]
Jane 1, 1904, oMh 812.00
Total 9,245.33
Am Lboal Ouabdian op Wah-thue-eo-nah-eaii.
[At heir of Pah-pe-thick.]
Dee. 4, 1908, oaah 4,216.68
[At heir of Me-thah-pe^uah.]
JOM 1, 1904, oaah 406.00
Total 4,622.68
Aa Lboal Ouabdian op Chuce-b-sein-ah-a.
[At heir of Ke-ab-qua-huok.]
Vibr. 28, 1904, oath 6,288.00
Total... 6,288.00
Orand total 28,690.24
MMjacjkx ncxAFOO laEDiAXSu 2259
l^fmmhpmdtBl
: Jfii^^f.
li«L.Jt.l
1*1
r^ftV. H. 2MK, .
▲m^ 4.2]iiit .
Jkxi^Ji 2]Ml.
iMluIk 211111..
BCD' .A/..'OQW7-
]fa&.SL^aiML4
]ter.2L3MSL
I>KL 1. HNS: t&Mft
'-id^r^Mv..
2260
A7FAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[ai]
Statement of funds paid to Kah-ke-ne-peah, Mexican Kkkapoo allottu No, t.
Date.
Check No.
Amoant.
LKA8I Accoxmr.
1*11.24,1902..
Do
Do
Do
Do
Aug. 1,1902...
Jan. 26, 1903..
July 10, 1903..
Aug. 3, 1903...
Jan. 27, 1904..
Febr. 20, 1904.
July 11, 1904..
July 30, 1904..
Jan. 10, 1906..
Jan. 10, 1906..
Do
Jan. 17, 1906..
Jan. 26, 1906..
Apr. 28, 1906..
J^ 23, 1906..
Total...
90400
99401
99403
99404
276060
276406
302066
331681
331002
332184
382311
382220
382602
882649
882660
382658
416847
416406
416629
DIID ACCOUNT— HEIB OF PEM-K-CHK-SUICK.
Oet. 30, loas, check..
Jfov.20, iwr-, check..
Dw. 20, i^i'i, check..
Ja£t.2(K im>,iiheck..
Deo, 2ti, l|ju«:.,c!heck..
Febr. a< lix>.. oheck..
Febr. Tt J1(0(>. (jheck..
fiibr. 20, itoi, check.
Totol.
A8 HEIR or PE-gUA-NAU-KETB-IH.
Jaa. 90, 1906, Check..
Febr. 20, 1906, check.
Febr. 26, 1906, check.
Total
Oimnd total.
880.00
12.60
96.00
17.00
12.60
102.00
107.00
UO.OO
17.00
101.67
80.00
66.00
60.00
12.80
30.00
34.00
17.00
60.00
30.00
30.00
1,103.17
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
284.78
100.00
66.22
10.00
601.00
10.00
10.00
366.07
386.67
2,080.84
[99]
Statement of fundi paid to Kah-pah-ke-ha-qiuih, Mexican Kxckapoo allottu No. tS,
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
AnCt 1, 19m
UBASI ACCOUNT.'
276066
276442
382163
382219
416468
416700
lO&OO
JiSadioos
66.00
July 19. 1904
180.00
JW 80, 1904
6&00
JW 6b 1006
100.00
i^ii9&i!:;;:!i;----**-*--'-"'"-"
100.00
Total
826.00
AlFAOBS 6r THM UMXWAM KKXATOO OCSUSS. S961
mi
SaOK. CBadcSRs^
Mto?^ 'WS .MMfr. «DL'»
ftiLvjfl. I'wuj , iKum mum
iiia- >. -'HI*. «gB . 3b1ll>
^it?:„JW« -OS&A Jk<l»
ITlGdft —
jiqjr. ' iim*. __, jEHa 9m,m
f5i»ir i. .'TIU^ „ fflETit JL<»
iliL7 i. iWW „, «IMM m.»
Toa. Irt, illUi- tai^., _ . .
Jm\r r iM\f,. 'Oifft- . --_
Mc^n. ji. jm^ ,- -vr
:ruUi Jl IWK — -^ - JW
:jm. ^w
JiLt'^ JWifi^ ihw.k:.. , ,
JtOKL JL IW:. 'Ii»PX
JLUf. Ji. JW5. ifiwir. , , -,
imiiL y\. .'.KiA. mwjt . . , .
^iik. J\. JMur. :hfW
Jh'T :n. !WU7. ■•uwjc., . -„__
D«. :n. mn. 'm^fjc .
D*!R. 1 iW»4. •nivJf .
'«• i .IW2. miv5c 1L9
%^^ 'Jl I'-Wa. 'riwic IBL9
^yr- Jl .fWi4. 'rirtfji, . ^ , , !ft.tt
?inu_ a-Ht
JRror :?i^ jLlflH. ^voizaoc 9«i. ZBL< Xfigfii ?'MB , WC1,M
ITiiau ■ .. . ■ ■ ■
2262
AFFAIBS or THC MBXICAN SIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Statement offundt paid to S^ee-nah-ho^thet, Mexican JSRdbapoo allottee No. 8.
Date.
Cheek No.
Amount.
L1A8K ACCOUNT.
Aug.lQ, 19Q2..
Jan. 26, 1903,.
July 21,1903..
Aug. 1,1904...
Aug. 31, 1904..
Julys, 1906...
Mar. 13, 1907..
60794
276417
302092
60792
382295
416462
529457
Total
DIED ACCOUNT— HBIR OF KAH-8KK-AH, ALLOTTU NO. 36.
Aug. 24, 1903, cash
Total
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mar. 21, 1902, Cheek
Dec. 5, 1902, check
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant (Eagle Pass) .
Total
Grand total.
112.50
5a OQ
50.00
50.00
100.00
300.00
loaoo
662.50
85L00
851.00
ia66
ia66
303.58
82488
1,838.38
Statement offunda paid to Kee'Sheck-ko-thah^ Mexican Kickapoo allottee No, 121.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Jan. 24, iQOo T
LEASE ACCOUNT.
99416
60787
276411
331507
382275
416674
S6&00
Aug. 1, 1902
6&50
Jan. 26, 1903
6&00
Aug. 4. 1903
loaoo
Aug. 20, 1904
3oaoo
8e^. 3, 1906 -
3oaoo
Total
885.00
[9S]
Statement of funds paid to Ke-ma-n-quahj Mexican Kickapoo aUottee No, tt.
Date.
Check No. Amount.
Jan.
Aug
Jan.
July
Feb.
Aug.
Mar.
Aug.
Feb.
July
24,1902..
1, 1902..
30,1903..
22,1903..
21,1904..
13,1904.
8,1905...
11,1906.,
2.1906...
30,1906..
Total...
LEASE ACCOUNT.
86750
i8aoo
276090
8a 00
276448
8a 00
302112
8a 00
332186
8a 00
382260
8a 00
282785
8a 00
415G50
loaoo
415868
8a 00
416570
80.00
880.00
Afnns or ram memscax maoLMroo iSHunL S36S
tfCL
at. iwt-
J6 OJH* ^ Z76ZB *.•
I&»B
^.m
aHiL--. ...^ - mem it.jp
?>flMi - .„_-^^ anuB
mk-jd^mk.. -■ m > m.9
jijpi.-h.2WJi>,.,.-^ ..- . m- aaB.'»
JiffK- JL MHEu -' 39 m«
3mm ^.ms. - --- m m«
JolbrlB 2!IW' - — «» *-•
JifrjL anw -.- JK *••
l-aauL^ .- . Mi-'il'
SiaS0ir«0n£ uf /umfiF ^wn^ i» f^-^f^fuiaL. Msaaapm Kmiwfftm» /finikin JKp. 4^.
Sifi
]i2*aK Auuiiiara.
Ask t UK .
JtSryk UML
Jka^.3L JMT.
2264 AF7AIBS OF TfiE MEXICAN KICKAPOO IKDIAKS.
[81]
Statement o/funds paid to Kish-ke-nic-quote, Mexican Kichapoo allottee No, 24S.
Date.
Cheok No.
Amount.
Jan. 31, 1602
Aug. 1, 1602.
A
Aug.
OcT.
29, 1903..
17. 1908.
20. 1903..
22, 1904.
26. 1904.
25. 1905. .
13. 1906..
Mar.
Aug.
July
Jan.
July 0. 1906
Mar. 12. 1907
Total..
Oct.
Mar.
DIED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF MI-NA-NA. ALLOTTEE NO. 128.
14.1903, cash
HEIR or KAH-CHE-KA-8HE, ALLOTTEE NO. 4.
28. 1904, caah
Total
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mar.
Deo.
Nov.
21, 1902, cheok
5, 1902, check
14. 1906, warrant No. 13215 (Eagle Pasn) .
Total
Orand total.
86091
60816
27G435
331670
331738
332219
415578
416738
416461
529455
t25.00
107.60
182.60
60.00
82.60
60.00
60.00
60.00
60.00
60.00
60.00
737.60
8,820.00
3,444.00
6,764.00
42.60
42.60
664.00
649.20
8,150.70
[3SI]
Statement of funds paid to Mah-ha-se-ah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 240.
Dato.
Check No.
Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 3, 1907
416717
$50 00
ANNUITY A( COUNT.
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 1323;i (Kagl« Pass)
260 71
Totol
310 71
>ffr<ini flv ZBB MKncATf jcuauvoo iKmAmm. 3865
mi
ITT" ; ^ ] ^
A^K.S^2M4. W2S
M^tl,p0» *®**
22.]
1.1
7 1
T«tal SU.»
Mck-JLHMLetedk A«»
Do MaM
Mck. It. ziiW^ <^jL Ml»
J|fC. 11, 2MfL t&Mti^ >i.4»
2nrll.lSW.e&«ic MKW
J^ II, 3MIL <&«» ML HI
D*^ Ift4»
A^E, 7. ttK. ^e&yndc ltt.J»
Aji^ JlL 3M«l. <fiMf< Jnt»
Aji^ 27. >KIL ^JSMk MHLm
IH wm
ficfC- Ml 2Mlt.'i:«'«_ «L77
!>• ~ •^TT
. iy.iL'La-f £ ML«>
rm^
s^.yL imfL'-'-^t 3iL4»
Jter.l4L2SlML tawiit •i.tt
T«A.-.. 2L3i
Gtszrf T/:*Liii_ l»2Crjl
27*1^— S. Doe- 215. €r>-l-
2266 ATFAIBS or THB MEXICAN KIOKAPOO IHDIAK8.
[Ml
SUttement <^ funds paid to John Mine, or MaK^nuA^qwirfht, Jferiotm Kidoapoo aXhttee
No. 76.
Date.
GbflokNo.
Amount.
LIA8K ACCOUNT.
Jan. 24, 1902
86737
276067
a»ao4i
302137
332211
382828
116.80
Aug. 1, 1902
37.60
May 25, 19a3
37.60
July 24. 1903
60.00
Mcb.9. 1904
60.00
June 16, 1906
60.00
Total
24L60
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF KE-8HE-SHE.
Mch. 9, 1904. cash
888.67
Total
888.67
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mch. 21. 1902, chfck
10.66
Nov. 16, 1903, chpck
10.66
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13213 (Eagle Pass)
260.70
Total
282.00
Grand t^tal
862.17
[85]
Statement of funds paid to Mdh-me-she-kah-wah, or Me-she-kah, Mesican Kickapoo
allottee No. 15.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Feb. 7, 1902
UBASK ACCOUNT.
86132
276143
276764
302093
332221
382H42
415686
416467
n&oo
Aug. 5, 1002
40lOO
Jan. 27, 1903
40l00
July 21, 1903
40l00
Mar. 22. 1904
8a 00
June 15, 1905
8a 00
Julv25. 1906
40tOO
June 6, 1906
401,00
Total
876k 00
Mar 31, 10^2, chock..
ANNUnr ACCOUNT.
31.06
Dec 5, 1902, check -
8L06
Total
63L00
I>EED
Feb. 13, 1904, cash...
ACCOUNT— HEIR OF If AH-AH-POM-AH.
132.60
Total
132L60
Grand total...
67L40
AVFAOBS Cf
^fimAfmiU
J^frr,
CbaATki^
iLXdka jmcmnvs.
i
wtm
J(xflr2LI!lB...
1 3S5f^
A9
Anrm mm*
&A
cm 4
U3L. HKL
msa ixrisainvT — seok (tt \
jtf scB. iv ^trmjt-^ifrjk^vsm.
mSLm
Lit&flr
SKnt 0^ D3R <sitflek
TTfnsii
'^xagatTjiffatL
IBL4
.Cofai^EMifi. 'tUt^tttm .^1 . r^^
Otwartr 3KfIi.. JtmiBSaSL.
SAauiS jtfSSHinKE.
JBwr r 21M.
7acii
MlK 2. I9IB. meidc . -
Clw. 1 laRZ. dxeek .
TTiat . . --
<^Eanf£ '^nai-
^cmii
Sk: :L JME. mack- —
rS^o. T IffB. ^»»«fr -. _ - . ., _,
5ir»r ^|^ mil. norsuii: 5-i. :nZ2i Xiois P-MT.
in*
jmzs
Titaii-
a. 2ML ▼^camc 5ii. 3231 J^i^te ?s«i) •■.«
9968 AFFAIB8 OF THB ICEXIOAH KIOKAPOO IKDIAVl.
Statement fifvmiM paid to Ma-Mhe-^ Mmean Ekkapoo dOottee No, 171.
AMMUITT ACCOUIIT.
lUr.a.im^dieok 147.93
D«j. 5. 1W8, check 47.92
Not. 1(M908, check 47.92
Not. W, 1904, check 87.27
A^. as, 1907, wanrant No. 17740 884.67
ToUl 1,085.71
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF KA-8HA-PI.
Not. 14, 1908, OMh 1,840.00
▲■ HEIB or WK-8KO-PAH.
Not. 14, 1903, CMh 1,400.00
Tout 2,740.00
Onudtotol .'. «2,806.n
[41]
Statement of fundi paid to Mat-tah^UHih, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. t09,
IMABE ACCOUNT.
1908 840 00
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIB OF WAW-THES-KAB-lfO-QUAH.
Apr. 27, 1907, Check No. 204 46a 73
TotlU 49a 73
ANNXHTY ACCOUNT.
Itor. 21, 1903, Check 42.60
Dec 6. 1902. check 42.60
Not. W, 1903, check 42.60
Not. 14, 1906, warrant (Eagle Pass) M2.72
Total «7a62
Grand total 1,17035
I4a]
Statement of funds paid to Mah-tuefhgua, Mexuxm Kickapoo allottee No. 211,
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Not. 14, 1908, warrant No. 18382 (SacU Past) 8271.36
Total 271.36
e81«000 mlitake In thla aoootmt.
mrtiTAjr
^>— i
Jk IVML.
Mi lHIEu.
s JIM-.
XBBO' jticraraan jubb iv ftc-^fpr^-KJLB-Kf^-^sis.
>iii»A.l]IK.^ads:-^
IH.
!«.-
1^
I*v
Jnai^Sb T9K. ctnt^.
'IH. -
TULILI
iL:s
SM.S
.SxoS«iu9ctt of fmak §*bu£
Mesaam Esdhe^rt/Sf n^bmrn Jh».. ;£SL
<nfcM»fc 3RiL A Mnif^w*
.1«L 1I_ Ii«l
:♦«!. :£ iw-fiL
."urr I'L iW«
.'um 4 21IW
;irr:n. inw
UlClC
Sii.
j^. :n
imr
11*12-
ilHX
.'ta. IL
iHW
t-UC 1
IMN
l»^'. i^.
liMit
7Tr«»4^
8870
AVFAIBS or IHK MWXTOAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
[4«]
SuaemerU <:ffundipaidto M-e-tioft, Mexican Kiekapoo aUoUee No.
117.
Data.
GhflckNo.
Amount.
LXABB ACCOUNT.
Apr. 34, 1903
183148
00806
276743
831576
332185
382187
382616
382950
416569
liaoo
▲ag.1,1902
10.00
Jan. 36, 1903
10.00
Aog.a, 1903
10.00
F^.31, 1904
10.00
July 35, 1904
10.00
Jul 10, 1906
22.50
July 35, 1905
12.60
J11I78O 1906
26.00
ToUl
120.00
DIED ▲CCOUNT— HUB OF PKM-1-CHK-8HICK.
Not. 30, 1905, check
10.00
Dec 30, 1905, check
10.00
Do
477.55
Jane 30, 1906, check
8.45
Mar. SOi 1906', check '....'..',.'..'.
L85
Total
502.35
Grand total
622.35
[47]
Statement of funds paid to Mut4warah-quah. Mexican
Kickapoo aUottee No.
1S5.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LXABK ACCOUNT.
Feb. 7, 1902
86141
276097
276736
331582
332250
382288
382t«7
415564
416447
416609
529490
529669
18.00
Aug. 1, 1902
8.00
Jan. 26. 1003
8.00
Aug. 3, 1903
8.00
Mar 11, itfu ....
25. OG
July 0,1904
25.00
Jan. 34, IflOR
25.00
July 25, 1906
25.00
Jim»36, 19"^
25.00
Atlg.4, 1906
25.00
May 1,1906
40.00
Aug. 13, 1906
40.00
Total
262.00
DIED ACCOUNT— HEIB OF KAH-KE-KA-THOCK.
Aug. 4, 1903, cash
421.66
Total
421.66
Mar, 21, 1902, Annnlty a^vt. (Pffto^k iihan^)
10.65
Grand total
604.31
[48]
Statement of funds paid to Nah-me-pesh-qua, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. ISt.
ANNUITY ACCOXWT.
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13224 (Eagle Pass) $271.35
Total 271 35
tm
WVL :A2!«
Dn
3m. M- 2W.
Ew
t ^
I»^
t^Andb]
flW^L 3tt. 'JlttK
Tini _
;u-i f JtMH. .
w^ssac Jhx, 23BSSA 3^m^ sum
SJLsmrif
saTs
A1TAIB8 OF TH£ MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
[SS]
StaUmmt (^ftmit paid to N»^ni4o-k», Menean KUkapoo alloUm No. 78.
Data.
Check No.
Amount.
J«L tl, 1902......
LSABB ACCOUNT.
99436
27«088
4157ti0
416473
to. 35
AlMT. 1,1902
6.25
Jan. 13, 19W
19.25
JUlj 0/1906
13.00
•
Total
44.7.'^
l«4]
Statement of funds paid to Ne-kah-no-pitf Mexican Kichapoo allottee No. 259.
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
llch. 21, 1902, Check .• $21.30
Deo. 6. 1902, check. 21.30
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13247 (Eagle Pass) 260.71
Total 303.31
[55]
Statement of funds paid to Ne-pah-fiah, Mexican Kichapoo allottee No. t44>
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Febr. 7, 1902 .'.
86132
27G109
27IK36
302122
332220
382289
4l34k>5
41(K>32
125. OO
Aoff. 1, 1902
25.00
Jan. 29, 1903
50 00
July 23, 1908
50.00
liar 22. }«H
50.00
Aug. 25, 1904
50.00
Aug. SO, 1904
100.00
July 23, 1906
100.00
Total
450.00
DBKO ACCOUNT— HEIR OF KAH-8KE-AH.
Anff. 24 \9m, ea«h . . . .
851.00
A8 HEIR OF KEN-NO-QUAH.
Aug. 25, 1904, cash
450.50
Total :
1,301.50
Grand total
1,761.50
ikrw^a» or
Smuff^j! ^fumk pmd i» i
SS7S
iJh.itr.
Ttiat.-
I'saO' Aooyfn??-
-DBi
-jf:
1^1
BksLfmkfnJ! '^/mmA ^mJ ^ Skh4m^ Maiam MMmfSft^ 'tiifittm A, tit.
XZAiC JkHOOTST
in.
Zn
1SZ3 At;t:'.Y^
tv mMsn-mi'-^gCA.
SjHj V ^M'C ta»^.
TXEkf fcOUUnFT
A.nf: XL
Am: s.
.2*
.in
2H
HHfi.
IWJL \
IMil. 1
2ilUL t&KHL..
2JM 'jtwif*..
TittfcL
2274
▲JTFAIBa OF THE MBXIOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAK8*
JnlyS^UOic
Total..
Statement qf fundi paid to O'tahrne-tept Mexioan Kickapoo.
DBBD ACCOUMT.
[ABhelrofCat.]
, 1825.00
, 32&.00
[59]
Statement of funds paid to O-le-mahf Mexican Kickapoo
aUotlu No.
t70
Date.
CheokNo.
Amount.
MA8K ACCOUNT.
May 81, 1903
j2ft02ft
276275
802022
831602
831746
331918
832188
382834
415574
415566
$138.00
Nov.»,190a
58.75
Apr. 13, 1903
98.75
Aug. 25, 1903
75.75
Sept.9, 1903
40.00
Jan. 29, 1904 !!!
23.75
Feb.22,1904
40.00
June 15, 1905
48.00
July 26, 1905
16.00
Do
71.25
Total
610.26
DBBD ACCOUNT— HBIB OF KB-aHB-flHB.
Mar. 9, 1904, OMb .
338.66
DBBD ACCOUNT— HBIB OF NA-KAH-PI-AH.
Mar. 9, 1904, oaah
1,202.00
Total
1,540.66
ANNUTTT ACCOUNT.
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 14206 (Eagle Pass)
806.36
Total
806.36
Qrand total
2,957.27
[60]
Statement of funds paid to Oque-mah-ah-then,
Mexican
Kickapoo allottee No.
4S.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LBA8K ACCOUNT.
Jan.24,1902
8G738
86739
86740
60788
276410
331732
331935
382314
382661
416478
112.50
Do A
15.00
Do
40.00
Aug. 1, 1902
27.60
Jan. 26, 1903
27.60
Oct. 10, 1003
15.00
Febr. 1. 1904
15.00
Oot.7.1904
15.00
Jan. 18, 1905
15.00
July6,1900
30.00
Total
212.50
AH.
DBBD ACCOUNT— HBIR OF NIT-TAH-KOEU-Ql)
Deo. 23. 1904, Check
10.00
Jan. 18, i9<«, ch«^ir. . - ,
35.00
Jan. 26. 1905. check
10.00
Febr. 20. 1906, check
10.00
Mch. 20. 190^. check .
10 00
Apr. 20. 1906. check
laoo
Total
85.00
Grand total
297.60
AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO I2n)IAN8.
3276
[61]
Statement of funds paid to Pah-e-nah, Mexiean E%ckapoo allottee No.
LBABB ACCOUNT.
Jnlf 6, 1906, oheok No. 416486
ToUl
DEKD ACCOUNT— HSIB OF MS8H-^US-KXN-N0CX, AND NAH-SOP-PK.
i4i.
Nov. ao, 1905, check.
Deo. 20,1905. check..
tcaoo
50.00
laoo
laoo
Total 20.00
ANNUITT ACCOUNT.
Moh. 21, 1902, Check
Deo. 6, 1902, check
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13241 (Eagle Pass) .
. laos
ia65
26a 71
Total
Grand total.
282.01
862.01
[6a]
Statement of funds paid to Pah-ko^nef Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 281,
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
J#r^, 94.190?
LBABX ACCOUNT.
86734
276339
415753
418480
825.00
Jan. 19, 1903
26.00
Jan. 13, 1906
125.00
July 6, 1906
75.00
Tota]
250.00
[•8]
Statement of funds paid to Pah-fso-ne, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No,
tis.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LKARE ACCOUNT.
Aag.5,1902
276133
276425
331642
415571
liaoo
Jan. 27. 1903.
laoo
Aug. 10,1903
10.00
July 25, 1905
3a 00
Total
6a 00
DKED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF KAH-KE-KA-THOCK.
Aug. 4, 1903, ca«h r.,..
421.67
Total
421.67
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
IIMi. 21, 1902, chfck ,
ia65
Deo. 6, 1902, check
ia65
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13211 (Eagle Pass)
26a 66
Total
28L96
Grand total ......,-
763.63
2276 ATFAiBs or thb mbzicak kiokapoo vsuusu.
SUHetntnt offund§ paid to Pah-ho-tahy Mexican Kidtapoo allottee No. tS7,
LXA8K ACCOUNT.
Jul 13,1006, Check No. 415785 tST.m
TofUl 37.50
AmrXTTTT ACCOUNT.
]foii.31.10Qa,dhack SL05
Deo. 5. 1008, check 21.30
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13242 (Eagle Pass) 26a 71
Total 3iao6
Grand total 35L46
[64]
Statement of funds paid to Pah-nah-kah'tho, Mexican Kichapoo allottee No, ttO.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Aug. 1,1002
LKA8K ACCOUNT.
60780
276770
301960
302121
332157
382319
415574
416483
I2a00
Jim. 3^, iqon
. _. . . .. __ t . -
2a 00
Fehr. 33, 1903
2a 00
July 23, 1903
2a 00
Febr. 5 1904
2a 00
Oct. 10, 1901
2a 00
July 25, 1906
4a 00
July 6, 1906 -
5a 00
Total
2iaoo
ANNOTTY ACCOUNT.
No. 13245 (Eacrle Pass)
Not. 14, 1906, warrant
27L35
Total
27L35
Grand total......
481.35
Statement offuneb paid to Pdh-niA-teth-tho, ilexican Kideapoo Allottee No. 7.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Jan. 24, 1902.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
90430
60603
276408
302097
332158
382176
416482
416094
$21.25
Aug. 1, 1902
21.25
Jan. 26, 1903
121.25
July 21, 1903
100 00
Febr. 5, 1904
100.00
July 22. 1904
100.00
July 6. 1906
300.00
Oct. 1,1906 -
100.00
ToUl..
863.75
clKH'k
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mcii.21, 19^'^,
10. (W>
Dec. 5, i902, chw'k
10.65
Not. 15, 1904.
check
10.tV>
Not 14, 1906,
warrant No.
13211 (Eagle Pass) . .
260 66
Total
292 61
rotal
Qrand '
1,156.36
^MTM
.us.
9m.
F& illML ,.
lL3i»
wsm*
Ai.-opniq iiiiB IV qgpcg «■ ^grufc «i qHi..
lEt«L
::^flbi»
^.«iib.«>
AfUntHT AtrjflTiST.
.ai. iMX. cuvor.. -
.3L JUMI mwdt
jA JHL vrMsaoB 5ii. 2SS: Xm^ l*um .
'l.-nuL -.-.-
b.4ii
4.n:ji.
BtaotmiBK tfjfwaA^imetb Ftj^trii #tfi) jfiai
I ^MfaB^wi/ .&2lattv Sf'. -C^.
^CftMdk 5KrT° JkOUSUIlt-
IM^^JB. At.t.lirfr?
Jon: 1 aoL. .
JkOf. ^ TMH.
maarm, imtL
IL JIM
msm
aR:.s)
L. 31 ilHIL 'Jim* 5.1- 4ii77M
JipK. jA UML VVKaHCiS Jil< J3SS Xl^» l^MM^
jK.:a
2378
AITAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO IKDIAN8.
[TO]
Statement €f fundi paid to Pah-pe-oAj Mexican Kiekapoo aUottee No. 189.
Date.
Check Na
Amount.
LBABB ACCOUNT.
JeiL3i|lff»..
Aug. 1, IMS...
Jan. SRT, 19(0..
Jolya«,19l0..
Jan.aO,19M..
Aag.aO,19M..
JonelS,19Q6..
JolySS^lWB..
Aos.8|1906...
Total...
86108
276069
276429
802182
831929
882847
415672
415636
DKKD ACCOUNT— HEIB OF KS-8HK-6HX.
lfolL9,1904.caah.
A8 HUB OF TA-KA-QUA-THE.
Dec 21, 1903, cash.
Total
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Ifdh. 21, 1902, Check
Dec. 6, 1902. check
Nov. 16, 1903, check
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 14207 (Eagle Pass).
Total
Grand total.
fUL50
16.00
16.00
16wOO
15.00
7.60
7.50
7.50
15.00
iiaoo
112.89
siaoo
922.89
21.80
21.30
21.80
347.26
1,38a 15
[Tl]
Statement of funds paid to Pa-lah^uch, Mexican Kiekapoo allottee No. t74.
ANNUmr ACCOUNT.
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 18227 (Eagle Pass) t2ea67
Total 26a 67
Statement of funds paid to Paw-kaw-kah, Mexican Kiekapoo allottee No. t05.
LKA8B ACCOUNT.
Jnly 25, 1906, Check No. 415677 876.00
Total 75,00
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Nov. 14, 1903, warrant No. 13218 (Eagle Pass) 314.31
Total 314. .31
DKED ACCOUNT— HXIB OF WA8H-8HE-eH0NK.
June 15, 1906, Check laoo
Jolv20, 1005, check laoo
Aug. 20, 1906, check laoo
8rot. 20, 1906, check laoo
Oct. 20, 1906, check 10.00
Nov. 20, 1905, check laoo
Deo. 20, 1906, check laoo
Total 7a 00
Ozmnd total 460.81
ilKL* JUMt IBDV , «£-«.
5iltT >t ISMS. ^ SBBi- 3Si-a»
riml II mBii aBHii i2-m«
.^uivjijuou amu js-»
IVSliL.
I"]
SRfi.
Jhlbi im: MH' JD.««
Anp 1 Ji«: : ZNtu: ».«•
Stmx. iws. -_ rmam s.«'
jbat^ « ii«L -. „ saioi' aw
iKMs. sasMs a&-»
:tt i** -^~~- ^ JB9R Wb-W
3L IMKt HtiaM' 3LjW
^F
^vuL , imm
an^X. 9QL -
jtat^sLsmL . mmn
ascu JWL - . tstm
ai^l JMft -- „ - 41l«ll
IHSD ACWrpf?— *H5IL DB Jt^-'Tiy— tfr-l^
sn.il'
ir.ii'
T..m
is.m
mm
mm
jmm
ta iiwt ciKOf:. aBjw
pt I juniL lawjiL-. „ - . aiu»
In --. JLM*
In - - — . JL.m
In _ - - 3t.«/
In .-- JL.»'
In llj.m
In JOj.W
In 3L-«t
Tma . TMiM}
mbm
3260 AFFAIB8 OF THE MEXICAH KIOKAPOO INDUJI6.
StaUmmi qf /unit paid to PlmMfM-^fe^AorM-maft, MtrSean Kieknpoo MMm No. 84*
Date.
GhaokNo.
Amount.
Tm 91, 1903
UEABB ACCOUNT.
86110
276171
27C431
803139
881829
883336
883678
883027
416917
416634
825.00
Aag.9VlQCk2
35.00
Jm. 27, 1WW
35.00
July 34', 1908
35.00
JaOt is, 1904
35.00
Jm- 13, 1904
35.00
Jan. 30, 1905
35.00
July 18,1905
36.00
M*r 1 , 190R
40.00
Aug. 7^,1906 , --
4a 00
Total
340.00
[TT]
Statement of fundt paid to Mary Pene-lho, Kantai Kieiapoo Indian.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
V^br.31,1903
LKA8K ACCOUMT.
102104
338909
276168
276213
276393
276393
301953
302144
331697
843.76
Adt. 39 1902
18.76
•^Do.
6.26
AOff. 11, 1902
43 75
AoS. 30, 1902
25i00
Jan. 36, 1903
43.76
Jan. 36, 1903
6.26
Febr. 17, 1903
37.60
July 35, 1903
43 76
Aug. 38, 1903
36.37
Total
305.12
-HEIB or PAH-PE-SHICK, ALLOTTEI NO. 367.
DBXD ACCOUNT-
Jan. 13, 1904, cash
9,608.34
1,538.39
Febr. 9, 1904, caah
Total
11,236.73
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
July 34, 1903, check
10.66
Grand total
11,552.50
SUbtmnMA'iffvmiB
J^mi,
Smat.
Jte.2r 2JRS..
JiBKai. 31III.
mil*
1323 *cr;.i»r¥T — 3313. T* m3C9-^i-iL*r-9r3.''^frM2^
■B.Ji
c:a
3&*
3.3
:v VLX^%2-«>-flCkr«z:«.
iWfil tanr.ic ,
Dn,.„ ...
3L»
«i3
TLtm
:.i4 aWS: -wmzTXtz *i. :n23l luglH ? w-i
TiiUi
•ySKOlfWlU _ , .-- _-
4.:.x«
I>i
ITS. JMC
Jirai
3«aa
•".rriT— XEa :» ?iap-«a.-^a;*2.
■ JH mis. •ai-'jf. ,.
J6pr ». .\ms. 'aH-JC- . .
Zi . - .
Eki
En
In.
Dn
yga— g- IJwgi. 2& •»! *itt:
2282 AFPAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[SO]
Statement of funds paid to Pum-y'tum-moke, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. SS8.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 13, 1906, check No. 415784 $37.60
ToUI 37.50
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF NET-TAH-KO-EH-QUAH.
June 15, 1905, check 10.00
Oct. 20, 1905, check 10.00
Nov. 20, 1905, check 10.00
Dec. 20, 1905, check 10.00
Total 40.00
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13243 (Eagie Pass) 2ea71
.v^ Total 260.71
Grand total 338.21
[81]
Statement of funds paid to Qua-to-quah^ Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 89.
Date.
Check No.
Amoont.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 7, 1902...
Jan. 31, 1902..
Jan. 24, 1902..
May 29, 1902..
Aog. 1, 1902..
Do
Jan. 26, 1903..
Mch. 28, 1903.
July 20, 1903..
Mch. 23, 1904.
Jan. 13, 1906. .
Nov. 7, 1906. .
Total...
86109
86743
229024
276099
60807
276727
302003
302066
332226
415784
416700
96.25
25.00
6.25
6.25
6.25
31.25
31.25
6.25
25lOO
25.00
40.00
laoo
21&75
DEED ACCOUNTt-HEIR OF MUT-TAH-TUM-AH.
Oct. 20, 1905, check..
Nov. 20, 1905, check.
Dec. 20, 1905, check..
laoo
10.00
laoo
Total.
30.00
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mch. 21, 1902, check
Dec. 5, 1902, check
Nov. 16, 1903, check
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13212 (Eagle Pass).
42.00
42.00
42.00
1,074.75
Total
Grand total.
1,202.56
1,451.30
[§a]
Statement of funds paid to Shawnee Doctor, Absentee Shavnee No. 46S.
DEED ACCOUNT.
D«c.20. 1905..
Febr. 23. 1907.
$10.00
606.32
Total filOwS
jlTTjuibs «r XKC in!XW%-% KicKjkroo isiaass.
22S3
Jtslii.IL 2\KL inMfta: ,.
D«. I iWi. •Jii'ftt , ,
SfinQ .-k. iMN. vu-:rini: 5<i. :.;2!a^ Im^^ ?tM» .
Tiiut- .
fill 45
QlflKlcSiS.
Ian. i% :».W!1
ion. :«. iW.
f«. :«. iwA _
■a- :t !W4-
Jt^C-l >. !WH
ZXTAL
jsin- rr .iw/v. '.niy-^-
Jtgtrl 1 Jiflfi. laiif.x.
jt^rl :n. '.J#tfL inivic
J^7 :». .UHil yiHr.if
JitUi^
ia.iu+a ax.iW.n-^r^
ZKsssr
-!iaia '.9 ? t-if i.a^-fl» 4-1.
T^ri: i» laaM;— no.
jaSL :« -VxlF-?xS-«LKS4Ea^-^ltI£.
-rant :if liiK^: jr:.L2iw
xstptjt: juzrir^irrz.
mn 21, rims, '.rufic
Ibmt. I Jiic •:!«•«.. , _
Mur^ -I -iW4i mjirjc-
Mi? -I JL)HT iniy.ic. ,
Tiiiii.
■Vcasiil -iHtU.
ill'
■IL'lft
22. .»
31111
Jim
.tL »
3i H
-I'm-
atvt
3L1D
rnL^ig
t,.vrtm
SILO
2284
AFPAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[S«]
Statement of funds paid to Tah-wih-he-ah^ Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. tSt,
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Mar. 23, 1904.
Aug. 20, 1904.
July 15, 1905..
July 6, 1906...
332227
3S2273
415565
410488
Total
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF PAH-PE-QUAH.
Nov.23, 1903, cash
A8 HEIR or KAH-SKO-KAH-ME.
Not. 12, 1903, cash.
Total
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mar. 21, 1902, check
Deo. 6, 1902, check
Nov. 16, 1903, check
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 14210 (Eagle Pass).
Total
Grand total.
$15.00
15.00
50.00
25.00
105.00
667.34
368.00
1,035.34
12,78
12.78
13.32
366.99
405.87
,546.21
[S6]
Statement of funds paid to Tah-pah-seah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 241,
ANNUmr ACCOUNT.
Itor. 21, 1902, check |ia65
Deo. 6, 1902, check 10.65
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13249 (Eagle Pass) 260.71
Total 282.01
[87]
Statement of funds paid to Tah-pah-she, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. If.
Date.
Check No. Amount.
Jan.
^.
lUr.
{ml
NOT.
24,1902..
6,1902..
1, 1903. . .
26.1903..
28,1904.
28,1904.
3.1904...
IS, 1906..
6,1906...
7,1906..,
Total..
LEASE ACCOUNT.
90432
276134
270792
3(r2146
332223
332233
332234
415762
4164M7
416700
ANNUITY ACCOXniT.
IDur. 21, 1902, dieck
Deo. 6, 1908, oheck
Not. 14, 1906, warmnt No. 13217 (Eagle Pass).
Total
Orand total.
117.60
17.60
100.00
100.00
100.00
20.00
20.00
100.00
200.00
100.00
775.00
10.65
10.65
282.00
303.30
,078.30
JLTFAOS or THE MEX3CJkSr KICKAFOO inMAX& 2285
,21 2III« _ €is:»
lira.-
ffilirtrn>flirf ^f-tauia ^i0*c t^ rfr-^^fC-^ndL JKcTbSK £v:fc0^«SfS' J2Z:cXflr .Vt Tf.
t^l IMC Wm Sklil
uJL iws 5?rn» jf<i
f2l iMtt... wesm, aiii
UIL.2MII 4.un* Jbl
Trtfc. - Ml
3li«
uL.3Mt. 'JMRic 1L«
r. j4 HUlL -PKTTa:: Nv -C!i: iLu|:» ^ui» SC: V
Ttn*: m-»
— ^^
•QnE&C itnAt. m.V
. SL 2MIC.. ▼w::ks ^t 2CS4 Lm^ ftm
IxrM
uA inc. zftsrk
..2tjj« nsm Jb-M
;,«. iWR «&!«• Jb-V
.r- iiM asatf m.«
?i<tk. -
2286
AFFAIBS OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[92]
JStatemerU of funds paid to Tuch-him me, Mexican Kxctapoo allottee No. 100.
Date.
Check No. Amount
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Aug. 22, 1904..
Do
Jan. 10. 1905..
Do
July 25, 1905..
Do
June 27. 1906..
Sept. 24, 1906.
Total...
.382281
382611
415581
415582
416449
416691
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF PEN-NE-TIIAT.
Mch. 20. 1905. Check..
Apr. 20. 1905. chock..
June 15. 1905. check..
July 20, 1905. check..
Sept. 20. 1905, check.
Oct. 20, 1905. check..
D6C. 20. 1905. check..
Sept. 25. 1906.ch(y*k.
Sept. 27. 1906, check.
Sept. 29. 1906. check.
Sept. 11. 1906. check.
Total
Grand total.
t28.33
45.00
22.50
35.00
22.50
12. 5U
22.60
35.00
223.33
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
4.00
35.94
10.00
10.00
8.24
128.18
351.51
[93]
Statement of funds paid to Wah-ho-quahj Mexican Kickapoo allottee .Vb* 93.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
Jan. 24. 1902
LEASE ACCOUNT.
9M33
99434
276165
276745
302017
231734
382825
415660
416700
110.00
Do
15.00
Aug. 11, 1902
25.00
Jan 26 1903
25.00
Apr 2 1903
20.00
Oct. 10. 1903
20.00
IIavK iqfK
60.00
Aug. 22, 1905
20.00
Nov. 7, 1905
30.00
Total
225.00
JNT— HEIR or WAH-8HE-KAH-TAH-NO-QUAH.
DEED ACCOl
Deo. 10, 1903. cash
301.26
Total
301.25
Grand total
526.25
JLTFAIBS Qg THE JCEX3CAS lOCmj^f^J JXVUJO,
2*?7
BkLem^mt^
jimdYf W^ar^mib'i4r^€ ki.
i3«7i£« «k^«CSflK 3^, i»$.
I40e
OmucJKi.
jLxifiniin
Jte IT "**»
,, tlMR
fA W
f^ £ iWt
3fi: ■
i a
9«. i a«^ ,,
J*.r.jw*. _
AH^Bii**
jmrx^ ^«*-
«rvfc
aEii»
=
<Lift
at*:
r«it . ,
iOLte
Stt. r. 'JWS. -aiv^ ......
S«L t 2«2. 'njwjr
JBfv- it 2WL vxrriar. 5.1. -S^ .Lu|> .'nw • - . -
JL-lff
-JiiUt
i&«
=
VSKBC tflfUk . . -. -, --. .. -
WL -fC
'•*:
^HCemaCT^ -.ffuntu _3«»c ;: ^CBr-^*ci-f#:-i:! Jferr*M?». s^t'hiyj: xi^.irrjui Si tl'l .
w, jik 11«. -rtman iti. ::JSi« i-upt ?-b»
ZVTM.
criM
-ciB&CTFiCtr "/f-uitUnt pa»c *: ^err- !#»-«•«. JCcrv^m; H'^xcjkc u^'.r:M JS^: *r.
•&«
1rtlK.fc
tLm
x;w£»
4im
SlilS
fi.«
SSZSSM
&-•
awm
£«
acr-.
:::&:«
«lrt4)«
tf.«
2288
AFFAIBS OF THB MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Statement of fund* paid to Wah-paw-ehe-qtM-quah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. SI.
Date.
Check No.
Amount
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 31 , 1902
86101
86111
276080
276414
331607
382831
415756
529606
$25.00
Do
20.00
Aug. 1 , 1902
50.00
Jan. 28, 1«.I03
25.00
Aug. 5. 1903
25.00
June 15, 1905
100.00
Jan. 13, 1906
25.00
Aug. 26, 1907
45.00
Total
315.00
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF JOSEPH JOHNSON..
Aug. 22, 1903, cash
1,128.00
Total
1,128.00
Grand total
1,443.00
[OS]
Statement of funds paid to Wah-pe-che-quah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 280,
Date.
Check No. Amount,
LBASB ACCOUNT.
Jan. 24, 1902..
Do
Jan. 31, 1902..
Aug. 1,1902...
Do
Jan. 15, 1903..
J^ebr. 1,1903..
uly25, 1903..
Aug. 12, 1903.
Jan. 13. 1906..
Do
May 15, 1906..
Total..
DBBD ACCOUNT— HEIR OF NO-AH-KA-<)UAil.
.12, 1903, cash.
Total
ANNXHTT ACCOUNT.
lioh. 21, 1902, check
Dee. 6, 1902. check
Hot. 4, 1906, warrant No. 13251 (Eagle Paaa) .
Total
Grand total.
86735
86736
86097
60810
276083
276338
276791
302149
3:n65i
415747
415748
529508
SAO. 00
50.00
25.00
100.00
60.00
100.00
10.00
10.00
100.00
100.00
52.50
45.00
702.50
3,2:i0.00
3,250.00
42.64
42.64
782.08
S67.36
4,819.86
MWTMJS^ .^ff TffiT WTXlf t¥ 30:'3lA?>C#& I3KIlflAX£.
2fS^
Amflfmnff uTfunoi mu^ii'
'» E^nmegtm auattm Jki tiVi .
Ciwui 3%\. ^Bifiuxr..
>i IMJC.
znuL^
jiiaa A'." iirir— Hint jh Krr-^wi-*.i-i:i-ii' *.r.
■I L iMA. tsiwji:
J« -
3n:
r.JHL iWX. ciHfUii
zmn.
rrmift
EC.ft
2[;ii.
:sL.m.
awft
3LWL
S,M
d»i«ftK
SL.tt
294M
jx-a
saas
iST.ar
4:::»
IL W
^ M
IL «
iim
IL ■
a ■
ZM
STTl
IL «S
IL IS
JL tS
^••. afc
arr «
L ' iirrr — mm ur v»*t-»'i-uL*.i.
■If Hiia IH i^l'tflt-i^.ir'AII.
LmmLiaai.
2290
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[lOO]
Statement of funds paid to Wah-puch-we-chef Mexican Eichapoo allottee No. gtS.
Date.
Check No. Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Jan. 24, 1902..
Do
Aug. 1,1902...
Do
Do
Mar. 17, 1903..
Jan. 26, 1903..
Oct. 9, 1903...
Feb. 6, 1004...
Mar. 1,1904...
Sept. 16. IV04.
July 6, 1906. .
Total...
99425
99426
60S44
G0786
27U)93
301980
276400
331731
332155
332196
382307
416492
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF KO-TUCK-CIIE-MAH-QUAH.
Cash.
AS HEIR OF EDWIN PENSONEAU.
Cash.
Total.
ANNUFTY ACCOUNT.
BCar. 21, 1902, check
Dec. 6, 1902, check
Not. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13223 (Eagle Pass).
Total
Grand total.
saaoo
6.25
15.00
40.00
10.00
15.00
10.00
25.00
45.00
10.00
30.00
35^00
271.25
980.00
880.00
l,8CO.0O
21.30
21.30
282.00
324. CO
2,455l85
AFFAOS or THE IOSJCaS KICKJIkP€0 UTDEASaw ^ 2^1
5ocfinw)C 'ff-iouk r^ ^ Wdk-iAf^^Mii. Mesitmm £wiitp0ir. «ZZottw >V Ii.f.
Ew .
.A■B:^ I'M:;.
A9V.22. MMr
mm
fi*."n
wcr
a::!!
W4»
::i.iii
-Wl£!r
•».:!
muw
25. ■»
r»ir£ ,
«l:3
rH«» .
».«
MUVS
SUM-
auwi
jsum
ISuiM
"SLm
niKMi-
vLm
«2=S»
■:5.»
nsnfi
M.iM-
«iMtt
»L«
LyiL .:»*,
T;Ca: «!:«
T^k.TL'S/m.i'citH'M ■«.«
0«. :ii. liMT mwT. m. »
««t.A.'JMr. ttwrn: Jfl 1ft
Jtiv. T- iJHr mHTJC -1-*
"ZriPJu
jiog: 31. :9«i «fc.«i - !•«*«
Titu. :.-«4.ii
Mw,2l. att. -niwic 'aK45
»*», 1 aiC tluwic ,. 'Jt«
Jfaw^-lrtaiiL ir*raas5ti. le:* lAZUf J^Mii El.«
Tittfc. i-tn
•*>siait •-'.*•-*.»>_ , LrJri.rC
Krr.ai. 3IW. rfiiwic. ' TjI-I
]1I«L.», aw. UUML^ a.*!
■0^!lu2IIML^Mli ^.yiLA
1«»^ tl
2292
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[103]
Statement of funds paid to Wah-ihech-kO'na'hah, Mtxican Kickapoo allottee No. 67,
Date.
Check No. Amount
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Apr. 29, 1902..
Do
Aug. 1, 1902...
Aug. 16, 1902. .
Aug. 26. 1902..
Jan. 26, 1903...
Feb. 20, 1903..
Do
Aug. 11,1903..
Aug. 12, 1903..
Jan. 18, 1904...
Oct. 10, 1904...
Jan. 26, 1905...
Jan. 13, 1906...
Sept. 24, 1906..
Oct. 1,1906....
Total.
DBBD ACCOUNT— PAID TO WILLARD JOHNSTON, LEGAL GUARDIAN.
[As heir of Pah-pe-shlck.]
Dec. 4, 1903. cash..
[As heir of Me-thah-pe-quah.]
June 1,1904, cash..
Total
Grand total..
229012
229011
60805
276196
'J76227
276418
:i01»58
301960
331648
331652
331843
382316
415752
416693
416605
tl8.75
4.17
87.50
18.76
e.2S
37.50
18.76
0.26
37.50
14.73
76.00
37.50
87.50
87.50
76.00
75.00
637.66
4,216.68
406.00
4,622.68
5.160.33
[104]
Statement of fundi paid to Wdh-we-ah, Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. IBS,
▲NNUITT ACCOUNT.
Nov. 14. 1906. warrant No. 13238 (Eagle Pass) •847.01
Total 347.01
ATTAUBS or THZ JKESICAS WSCKAFOO JSUIASS. 2293
Ia.1t
C&K^S&ft.
JLBKRXX3.
ICC
s%s
In .
Afr S- "^Wtl
*c;c
-r-^
- mmK.
47-r«
CiOfl-
nwir
wcr*
SLw4
2111
3t.3
»aof. : ?M^
ML •
•^PL 2i 21tt:
Jml^H 2I«_
PM-IL ISMS
Jtaw. « 'Wf
IS
Jsrr£. 2M& . -
13L »
JOf^ZX. iWtk
»ri.2i*t
JtaeaT 'wr
KiK*
XZTLlit
iR£9M<
^■C.{-]!W£
J^C2Mff. —
€-:*c
trt-flft
L2«7i
" ' ^ ^'
Tt*U..
1 ^#4 21
=
Dk. % 31IDI •:!;« .
F«. I iW* -wa
>m»i2iii* irtii
7tCA^ ,.
» ~ 1 3t
=
tc. •
l>K_ Ii 21«t- ■air «:
11 m
9H*r 3L '^MJL '^w c
KL1K
J-^ StaniL ▼t-na-rX: .C. i-uc»?fcw
IMV
rm*..-
-CSti w
=
■f^nmi * ',1^4. . . ^ ^ . . , , ,
jL 4ifi^. 3
lo.*:*.
CdwcKf.
X2ij;iiii^
tar fr 7ve:
<- — r
Ciill
■tar it 2IIG
Aai: ' 'MS
JLII*
An: 3f jw:
JtaLZ: -:WS_
«»ir2t^l«
Jl. «
Ilia
jl. M-
Aat». :^MS
Jm^zi. iWi_
ilfct 2WI
1L»
if. Ill
11181
21»
TTii:*. . , -.-
IK> V
=
»*i.2L21K -nr: '.e'jfl?#«-:
IM.«
TfCfc.
ML*
s
dnait vrj« .
'Jl«
2294
AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
[10»]
Statement of funds paid to We-sho-peth-o-que^ Mexican Kickapoo allottee No. 87.
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Aug. 3. 1903
331578
382224
415749
415.50
41U532
41(;500
529506
529579
t2S.OO
Aug. 5, 1904
26. 00
Jan. 13, 1906
5,00
Do
25.00
July 23, 1906
6.00
Aug. 1. 1906
2&00
May V2, 1907
6lOO
Aug. 1, 1907
26.00
Total
140.00
DEED ACCOUNT— HEIR OF MAH-An-POM-AH.
Febr. 13, 1904, cash
IS. 00
Total
192.(10
G rand total
273.80
[lOS]
Statement of funds paid to We-ta-ma-O'thaf Mexican Kickapoo allottee No, 154,
Date.
Check No.
Amount.
LEASE ACCOUNT.
Febr. 7, 1902
8G135
270164
270762
3U1979
302013
382164
tl2.fl0
IZSO
25.00
12.50
Aug. 8, 1902
Jan. 27, 1903
Mar. 3, 1903
Apr. 1, 190.3
50.00
July 19, 1904
27.00
Total :
130 50
DEED ACCOUNT— AS UEIE OF WE-MAil-9HE-QUE.
Oct. 9, 1903, cash
1,700.00
Total
1,700.00
DEED ACCOUNT-HEIR OF MESHJUAH-OT.
Dec. 16, 1905, check
laoo
Total
laoo
ANNUITY ACCOUNT.
Mar. 21, 1902, check
ia«
10.66
Dec. 5, 1902, chock
Nov. 14, 1906, warrant No. 13222 (Eagle Pass)
200.70
Total
282.00
Grand total
2,1SL50
RECAPITULATION.
Totnl lease monoy
Total deed money
Total annuity money
Grand total (paid to 108 Indians) ,
ATerage amount each for 106 Indians, $1,350.35.
f30,U4.97
06,142.«
21,662.17
146,8iaU
AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
2295
Exhibit No. 169 [Bentley].
[This exhibit should be considered with Thackery Exhibit A, which will be found in the Appendix.]
I
Name.
Total.
Received
by
Bentley.
Returned
Benfley.
G. p.
S966.80
2,836.01
809.00
1200.00
400.00
1200.00
500.00
161.70
140.06
994.78
180.00
100.00
100.00
161.16
2,030.00
61.30
2C0.71
470.00
100.00
100.00
60.71
6,703.34
4,000.00
3,600.00
535.01
983.85
107.50
100.00
100.00
71.35
325.00
297.92
6a 71
122.00
121.93
2.516.08
28, :90. 24
11,103.83
142.70
2,080. M
.
525.00
620.00
502.56
272.35
1,838.38
895.00
loaoo
loaoo
100.00
loaoo
72.36
102.08
880.00
36a 33
285^75
8, isa 70
310. 71
2,ooaoo
2,035.00
162.00
6a 71
1,242.34
862.17
571.40
loaoo
loaoo
6a 70
1,621.98
9a 66
404.61
282.01
261.71
2,8a5.71
1,170.25
271.36
768.52
100.00
5a 00
loaoo
1,900.00
100.00
loaoo
loaoo
50.00
100.00
1,900.00
100.00
100.00
60.71
6a 71
6a 71
42.72
71.56
387.50
442.00
622.35
69131
271.35
308.50
loaoo
loaoo
71.35
303.31
100.00
loaoo
82.01
481.98
132.50
100.00
81.98
44.75
303.31
1,751.50
991.75
loaoo
185.00
6a 71
1,76&78
325i00
2,957.27
297.50
4oaoo
400.00
352.01
6a 71
25a 00
763.63
351.46
481.35
1,156.36
4,007.26
127.50
loaoo
saoo
loaoo
loaoo
loaoo
50.00
loaoo
loaoo
6a 66
6a 71
71.35
6a66
80.61
310. 71
60.21
1,380.15
260.67
459.31
50.00
100.00
100.00
200.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
83.36
60.67
114.31
190.00
260.00
340.00
. .. . 1
Ah Che Che. No. 141
Ah Kis Kuck, No. 6
Ah-Ke-Na Na-Tho. No. 277
Tom Smith, No. 60
Ah-Na-Tha-Hah Quah, No. 260
Ah-Nes She Nen-Ne. No. 136
Ah-No-Peah. No. 104
Ah-No-Tha-Ha-Qua. No. 185
Ah-Ten-Ye-Tuck. No. 74
Ah-Them-Esk-Kah Mo, No. 180
Ah-Waw-Nee, No. 40
Chah-Ke-She, No. 142
Chah-Ko-Sot, No. 35
Che-Qua-Ka, Mexican Kickapooo
Choh-Cha-Ka-Thea, No. 230
Cook-Ka-Thah, No. 98
En-E-Kohn, No. 222
I-Nesh-Ken, No. 151
Wlllard Johnston
Kah-Ka-To-The-Quah, No. 252
Kah-Ke-Ne-Peah, No. 2
Kah-Pah-Ke-Ka-Quah, No. 23
Kah-Pah-0-Mah, No. £20
Ke-Ah-Oua-Quah, No. 113
Kee-Ah-Tha-Kum-O-Quah, No. 9
Kee-Nah-Ko-Thet, No. 8
Kee-Sheck-Ko-Thah, No. 121
Ke-Ma-Si-Quah, No. 22
Ke-0-Sl-Ah-Quah, No. 102
Ke-Te-Qua. No. 41
Kl8h-Ke-Nio-Quote, No. 243
Mah-Ka-Se-Ah, No. 240
Mah-Mah-To-Me-Ah, No. 138
John Mine, No. 76
Me-8he-Kah, No. 16
Mah-Quo-The-Eck, No. 217
Mah-Squa-Ko, No. 146
Mah-Tep-Ne-A, No. 240
Mah-Tha-Ko-Tha, No. 147
Ma-She-She, No. 171
Mat-Tah-Wah, No. 209
Mah-Tush-Qua, No. 211
Mack Johnson, No. 66
Steve Mohawk, No. 235
Me-Thup-Pe-Hah, No. 27
Ml-E-Nah, No. 117
Mut-Twa-Ah-Quah, No. 135
Nah-Me-Pesh-Qua, No. 132
Nah-Nah-Chi-Skin-No-Quah, No. 120.
NarMah-Che-The-Quah, No. 160
Na-Nah-E-To, No. 282
Na-Na-Go-Thet
Na-Nl-To-Ke, No. 76
Ne-Kah-No-Pit, No. 259
Ne-Pah-Hahm, No. 244
Nep-Teth-She, No. 127
No-Ten. No. 112
O-Kah-Ne-Tep
O-Ke-Nah, No. 270
O-Que-Mah-Ah-Then, No. 43
Pah-E-Nah, No. 242
Pah-Ko-Ne, No. 281
Pah-Ko-Ne, No. 213
Pah-Ko-Tah. No. 237
Pah-Nah-Kah-Tho, No. 220
Pah-Nah-Kah-To, No. 7
Pah-Pah-Me-Na-Ko, No. 247
Pah-Pah-Thah-Peah, No. 64
Pah-Pe-Ah-She. No. 218
Pah-Pe-Ach, No. 189
Pali-Kah-l»eck, No. 274
Paw-Kaw-Kah. No. 205
John Pecon, No. 487
Peck-Ke-Ah-Peah. No. 65
Pem-E-Tum-Wah, No. 276
Pem-Me-Pah-Hone-Mah. No. 84
• Che-Qoa-Ka, Mextean Klokapoo. Wild Kickapoo, don't belong to Oldahoma Band; never |bAd
Aoy trannotlon with him.
h No number was ever allotted.
2296
APFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS,
Exhibit No. 16^— [Bentley] — Continued.
go
01
92
93
94
95
96
97
96
99
100
101
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
Name.
Mary Penetho (Kansas Indian) . .
Pe-Qua. No. 221
Pe«-Ko-Nah-Ah. No. 99
Pum-Y-Tum-Moke, No. 238
Qua-To-Quah. No, 89
Shawnee Doctor, No. 463
Slce-Mah-Tho-Pe, No. 144
Tah-Nah-Ke, No. 152
Tah-Nah-Ke-Ah. No. 262
Tah-Pah-Seah, No. 241
Tah-Pah-She. No. 12
Tah-Pah-The-A. No. 241 o
Ta-Pa-Hah, No. 78
Thl-The-Qua, No. 271
Tho-Kah-Qua-Muck, No. 272
Tuck-Kum-Me, No. 100
Wah-Ko-Quah, No. 93
Wah-Nah-Ke-Tha-Hah. No. 250. .
Wah-Pah-Ho-Ko, No. 210
Waw-Pah-Soae. No. 21
Wah-Pah-Che-Qua-Quah. No. 31.
Wah-Pe-Che-Quah. No. 280
Wah-Pe-Ke-Che, No. 26i
Wah-Puck-We-Che. No. 225
Wah-8ko-Tah, No. 145
Wah-Sko-Tah, No. 145
Wa-Tha-Pe-Quah «>
Wah-Thcck-Ko-Na-Hah. No. 67. .
Wah-We-Ah. No. 163
We-Ah-Che-Kah. No. 47
We-Hah-Ni-Hah. No. 114
We-Sko-Pech-O-Que. No. 87
We-Ta-Ma-O-Tha. No. 154
Total.
Received
by
Bentley.
Returned
Bentley.
O.F.
111. 552. 50
17,000.00
2, 100. 00
$5,010.00
2, 100. 00
4,158.06
33.3.63
1122.56
3.38.21
1,451.30
100.00
800.00
100.00
M.71
74.75
616 .T2
.30 «. "0
81.00
2,641.46
1,546.21
282.01
1,078. .30
5(» 0(1
680.00
100.00
716.00
100.00
97.22
60.71
82.00
a'>.3..30
260.67
100. ou
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
82.00
60.67
.'?5l. 51
526.25
806.64
82.00
271. ro
450.00
100.00
100.00
71.30
1,443.00
600.00
300.00
600.00
300.00
4,819.86
1,510.40
82.0ft
2.455.85
3.216.71
100.00
1,600.00
;;00.00
888
82.00
141.00
6, 308. 88
5, 160. 3'i
.347.61
10, AX,. 5\
:>2iA'i€i
100.00
6,100.00
100.00
4,400.00
147.61
131.06
272 50
4&00
1,000.00
2,131.50
1,000.00
60.70
175,951.02
32,200.00
r800.00
31,400.00
27,391.40
4,069.91
> Exhibit Thackery. Account page 88 should l)e page 86. parties' names are reversed.
f> Not a member of Kicking Kickapoo Trilw (Oklahoma) Mexicjin Indian,
e Eight hundred dollars used for all the Kickapoos; due Quotoqua H1W.60.
Exhibit No. 170 [Embry].
List of cases where Frank A. Thackery was appointed guardian of incompetent Kickapoo
Indians, showing the date of application for appointment and date of appointment,
POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY.
Petition for a ^-^i„*--,^,^
Peah-twyh-tuck | July 13. 1906
We-sko-peth-o-que do
Ah-ko-the do
Wah-ne-nia-qtiiih do
Mi^-flhe-nah do
Muih-«ho-qua-to-<|uah I do
Wah-tah-tah i do
Kah-ka-nah-chc-kah \ do .
Kah-ke-ne-peah i do.
Pe-nee-«hc.
.ilo.
if en-ah-pe i do
Medk-k(vkah d..
Ah-na-tho-the j do
8ho-«-nah-quah I do
Ma-ko-the-wuah j do
Ma-nah-thp-<iuah-qua-ah do
Wah-«ha-ko-flkuch ' do
Ah-na-tho-huck . do
Ife-na-mesh do
Shah-kah-t»h do
[uch-<*-nwiw» I July 16,1906
Mut-t wa-Hh-<iuah do
Me-nali-qimh I do
July 23,1906
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
or THE MKKKIAM KKXAFOO
So. 1391
S897
porTTAiTAivnoK cocvrr
-i«» .
.i*i
~1,
!>«.
Da.
DOL
LCfcouf couynr.
ExKiBzr 5o. 171 [BcbOctI.
ITsxivo Staxxb Ixkax foemy
i>-a
ZHSim 0>IIUiLliffM3Kli!J' I,
I kiv« tbe ksoor to aekzuiwie*!^ nrxipiL d ys*sr leOcr 4f October JOt, m^,
1. Bow 2aau£j Tntifgraf arf new jsader jrj^ir can? (4; Otw msBsj aik>f3n^ts» <^ bad
ii ill ksTt fcei«i madft soii pszeazed to iIk Indaos df tier agsacj fst WELka^^sbrj oow
■Bdcrj'sm'car!:?— <) Afactu Zr«». ^r Alls«alkac<L
2L fiCbw jBAnj Trr^fiaiTff wiio had rtcwnd aBcoaenSB ni hmd M jcnr ag^arj m flid^
jg/uierhatve dseii ttoo* lacaia ▼€r« aIkiCJ<»*l di«ii? — ^Xoc kaowa>
3L uf jrsfsr Tffr^^mif ^i; vtrjci Sjcad hsui alr^aifj bei^Q alkcc«d. bcw trrany are bsw
Tit JTifl & p^STTTATirnZ T^^JSTJiT Ett bock fctSl '^f Zlut Had*** C# m lUbtTK**** M JRjUT
^r sr fCibQ^iicy. wish. & 'i^^rrrpCKn cf "Jie »nrjcas«ic :f •airfe? — Y**
r or •ihtt^'^turT, wizh Int-ffitn same *nrf wb^rt la^i Ecgtoic nn.m<*-.. irui zTreag
■ PtlaKa^'tafcip 'f ^a^fL ci ifk? thizk heck t^r'vf*^*rii fcr "i^ p»irp<e»» TSi&r tJie
0i| i^ ■■cfi * p«»rT>Anteiis rsgiac^- » ai:^ T»r. edir^tj tncicleted by t^»i. hew znaoij
iVacj or iaba^»a3CT rymain rmr't^ar.rmi? 'Cj Hat* 7*2x1 & p^srsiajxsz naird £l ail
I sad -fetcEif Xjr^ir ItAixt^ ^^-yt J^awarj 1, 1302?— »;«> So. i^/ A ]
Doc 219^ «>-l— ««1
9S98 AFFAIB8 OP THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
register for the Absentee Shawnee trS>e of Indians has been completed, and a similar
register for the Mexican Kickapoo tribe of Indians has been started, making a total of
alxmt 800 registered, and about 1,960 nnregistered. (c) No.
6. (a) Are you carefully observing the regulation for issuing licenses for the mar-
riage of Indians and requiring returns of such marriages to be made to you and rec(Mtied
in permanent form at your subagency? (6) How many returns of marriages have thus
been made at your agency since the regulations went into effect in 1901? — (a) No.
(»)NoBe.
7. (a) What number of Indians at your agency receive rations of food in any form
from the Government? (b) What number receive clothing from the Government? —
(a) None. (6) None.
8. In your opinion, what proportion of the adult Indians at your agency or sub-
agency are ''intelligent, sober, aoid industrious" enough to be able to use wisely and
prop^y their own mdividual share of such tribal fimos as the Government may hold
m trust for them, if such funds were to be broken up into individual holdings on the
books of the Treasury within the next two years? — ^All of them.
9. What number of Indians at your agency to whom land has been allotted are now
leasing a whole or a part of their allotment of land? — ^About 1,000.
10. (a) Is there any material change within the last three years in the number of
Indians at your agency who support themselves by their own labor? (6) Does the
chanse show an increase or a decrease in the number of the self-supporting?— (a) Yes.
(6) 'flie chan^ shows a decided increase in the number oi self-supporting Indians.
In conclusion I would state that it should be remembered that tine Citizen Band of
Pottawatomie Indians comprises about 1,670 Indians who are scattered in almost every
State in the Union, and it is impossible to prepare a permanent register of Indian
families unless fimds to the amount of at least $2,000 are provided for the same.
This office insists as far as possible upon legal marriages of all Indians, however, the
courts of this Territorv have held that a common-law marriage is lawful.
Very respectfully,
Frank A. Thackbbt,
SuperirUendeni and Spedal Diibwrnng A^enL
Exhibit No. 172.
DXPABTMBNT OW THB INTERIOR,
OmcB OP Indian Afpairs,
- Washingkm, April 6, 1907,
Hon. Hbnrt M. Teller, Denver , Colo,
Sir: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of three letters from you, one dated March 23,
1907, addressed to the Sectary of the Interior and referred here on March 25, the
next dated March 25, and the last dated March 26. These all relate to the investiga-
tion authorized by Senate resolution No. 261, directing the appointment of a sub-
committee " for the purpose of ascertaining all the facts with reference to the affairs of
the Mexican Kickapoo Indians."
In response you are advised that a statement concerning the claims of these Indians
filed by Chester Howe will be prepared and sent ;rou as soon as practicable. Duplicate
copies of nearly all these claims were offered in evidence before the subcommittee
which sat durins the session of Congress.
Your request for a copy of the expense accounts of Superintendent Thackery will
also be complied with as soon as I can find out just which are wanted. The vouchers
with subvouchers attached, covering expenditures made by him while in Mexico and
after his return, relating to the investigation undertaken by George A. Outcelt, were
put iA evidence before the Senate committee, and therefore it is presumed that you
dMire something else.
The iangoing relates to your letter of March 23.
In view of the fact that charges have been made before the Committee on Indian
Attain and the subcommittee wnich sat till March 5, and that two of the three mem-
ben ci your subcommittee have already expressed their belief that this office has
been guuty of wrongdoing, it still seems to me only just and right that the office should
b# represented at your hearings and have the same privileges extended to it as are
allowed to its accusers.
Your letter of March 26 expresses the hope that the committee may begin its work
at Eagle Pass about May 2, and you request the names of witnesses who the office
thinks should be examined at Easle Pass, as you do not wish to summons any wit-
neeeee there who can be examinea in this dty next fall.
There ia incloBed a partial list of the witneases who this office has every reason to
believe know many facta pertinent to tb* inveatagjiAioti 70U «z« ^^x!k% to conduct.
mwxwTJkw KKKAFOO mDusm
T<nE ▼3E 9fiC» dkflt ti&i» Ite cniiLpcsnf pflBasiiff wftts- Sm ii <ar ]B»r ^cnriMf!^. Otiflk.
le wsiE&i be & -v^GTj fsisc OMfc Vi- jcrH»m:s« tn voSxxtt m s Vxustjam wIbk «k& unsmaB
» csfiKt«ii ip}' 9mat tn-. «« frr^^ ?r^ * BMi^nr 'mafiM- <# <aiefr (gnr » ?i«KiiiiriiL'j: bos
wie& c&i»- <iBBWHni*ni» ^mk- ^mr.^yt han^t madft,. a foeaoB Iilkx^ dkoo m. huhkj ooAaKKio
ni«- fans tan. oes be facnmra one. T&e- ftiscmumj of cImk vBOMflw* nLOHi &e bad
■mlitflF n&i^ ^tnauiicsee ^kalE <fee«niLBUi lAnc msBfiL ^prk^anot iswws t»- he «?£
-iftail mtx be btfiwi, Toit viBK noiiMnBiaiil aty ieshutj «tu>a I jkt laoc iii> laBOSfGr
vftoc 'Vpiia mm kkok bum <«a:7WBCKs< oa- fiiQi:-V m'^sEuniBBe «SDMfHM& dke aemjutji
five, of ime <if(Bkil irasar.^ w^iieA I sol fmse ^nr «wiix2iim«i- w^ wnfr to r*ru^^mam^ jt §§
BWfaKfl&ui ^i&ac 30- wioMflKB <xjmsBiifi as Eieli!- F^m ^ ftnaH?' r«''"!'F'> f wuM iter
Ae- vefldmi^irj of c&flK- BOBBeif biffPCBB. or otaum^ff.
Tlkioe ace iffv»Eal pcBRos Ernu^ siarer Eflidie P^» c&aft t:&i'A»- "Jii^«tteif b^ ^e lirt^
w&Qu mi OCT |v%ii«BC. jftnuiii be mEM^nmaa^ b^iOiVe j^nr ^iimiiicsee ;a Eiicefie !)■■..
boc I aim oik mre of ^«ar aAii^jam jc iA« pci>!s>xic mne.. szui jdl %i^ sbskc jHuia <tf
(ban: aee BBL Xftxknu
I 'fts or.i: karwr w^edber ^jQi <aqp«a dke odiite on fin3c»& i^ aamx>» of mada, nfim ■■■
JK auBj wpi» OS 4ttfr ^^nqaitarr » sc 0107 be iaxtpnaskle w «h7is» nvrDice oo. YbeoL I
mmsnse «»• fiB^iMC. br^weovr. tibos dke'paraiii*s -v^ tr.nsi!f&»r£ wtdi Mr. B«aLdkfT ibr
siois •! die KirkvpfM Iaaii» feeni; fs- be flzE ^mciiivfi sl jbtsumxu^ •it»«»f^ dtjil in^nainm
vbA Vi aill jippiweMKe are pfsaumenidT' m^Si^i ia. OtdJa&i-.iiuL. T^i*ir pcartiiKet »e
Sffpffsmidf Vi me js nicse Rpr^fiamAble. -xati I mi'^nki ^JiJnk 'Jior. "xjr maaer wraiM be
«nrnb.y i&e <«fle^ aa«isn:G. -.c rjttf>- irr-mmmAft. w^zk ^ tmw :f irnzur t;b«ar CHe ii&it
nanr^A pnhbacj luui *!iih*aftt7ig «^iiie iiwiiii' iiir.it ;«: m«si»^ Hmtiaatf. wiii'. ize iityiiMMjiiii
n »e is=(»riij hiti^iem m. TKw'-'if :^ >!nniiiZ3k;ixft new ptit-vsiilaaff. I m&a «8speoi£Sj
m Xt>«is. GcHMs lui Ccn-me, vbrise loou!* x^^Karm auHLy nfmiai ol ;&e remvi of iftie
bacmas itdki bl ".niff 'drr.
£ aof sj QL rfiWizbiimiXL. ^"pst pieeaaiL wbiise some spp«K5 on tsie acmn _
fiK iaM(!i jfmiechxa^ t±ac wniiiid Wlitf>dusr M- k '
QB ttfiOL viiac be i«*.7niaII'T ikzxijw^ <taa be 4«!C«E3Lmefi only sy azL •tximxaacnnL:. bot I i
^nsy saat d^joc •tflKdt :ae ^raiL. by & pr:^!r <cniiz3f( '-^f <;ii»KBJii±zii£. be <:r?nrp»Biwi tta 'iv-
^isat- fansi vii&iiL ks ';wtl kmamiaai^ wMeh, mH iivTe ja bapcr^aac b*>acBii^ '«b jaar
CBudiasniift.
T«y fecpeafixfij^ F. E- Lcirrr. ^
Il«£3/^
m f kiB^M»» suf «rti|prti0«.
SoaxB.
W g- tfTliwHlWlMT . D«l»
WliBivt ToiBuCfm . Hth.
C ft. i>iimaCtiii , £14.
CM,C«fe un.
JLLftrnwa, , In.
Z.«k.
In.
1..C ''StraiiM .- . S.trrui. '
u*\.
7- -
W,W ihow &ii.^«w
«:ft.c«rfii i>i.
F. R-SmmI. Zn.
<taB» £ Jfci^omur 3n.
Wmak^ibmna - In.
W, ifc. i—Trn - In.
JhftlCr OttTiBL jr 2.1.
Wm. CdlfiT ^ In.
flLiGi.aMxrt .. Z<n.
2n.
■? ? unmffntf
Saxa-wsm. 0^
EkK
;. St .irtK»»ics»t ^
Dn.
r.. £*. ij'tHiiiinv* _
Dn.
Dn.
r. s: xiA? «
Im.
r H. Mkn? jr
D«L
3. a. ihkjsmgpf
DH.
: cr ».w)»t»
Cifc.
iC T-jimix
J>i.
JL, i. r-TtUR* _. ...
-■n-
Tn0t Hlmit
Sn.
L. JL jtaaiucm . .
I-n.
L. i. ^roai^cm . .
3»u
r A. ^kJtgp .
In.
£.1 *ruai»jt
■>!,
..i«k
j^pA aji»"
2»i.
"W i. ? *inlij*r..iii,
l-n.
1. TBaiwtor
-n.
i. ? «AS^«ui. «r
-•u
.i_ ? *^*s*m. r
-n.
Vrt>r> f.ir.r.u.'f
.-•u.
■ Jli'W ^mrrnii-— mr
i>k
IL W. JL6mUr^
Oa.
2800 AFFAIBS OF THE MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAN8.
lAit ofwUneaei in Kickapoo mvefft^ofioi^— Continued.
Name.
Address.
Name.
Address.
F. W. Boggt
Shawnee, Okia.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
S^
Do.
S^
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Tecumseh, Okla.
Oeo. L. Rose
T<*onmseh. Okla.
W. L. McFaU
Do.
W. P. DIx ;
E. W.MiUer
Do.
O- F Or»h^m . ,
W. N. Maben
Do.
Jno. P. Jonef . . ...... ^ .. .
S.J.Scott
Do.
Jobn T Rf^aflran ..........
S. P. Larsh
Do.
O.M.D. Steel
J. L. Nations
Mri^nd, ovia.
Geo. H. Kertoot
Ewera White
Do. •
J. R. Shive
Elisabeth Test
Do.
IdaB. Benttoy
Do.
W.J. RIggs...
Wna Br l^iint
Do.
iL F. KgR^rman
Radiael Kirk
Do.
W. P. Haworth
LB Hf^lUk^r
Do.
& A. B. Hart
J.H. Beaty
Oklahoma City, OUa.
Do.
Loa& AUard
Z.T. Wri2»t
HalJohnston
D- Tr Flynn . . ,
Do.
Mr. Coffin (real estate and
T^ n»j\^j
Do.
Tninlng) .
D/NVlSiTimwly
A. D. Humbarger
Tom Chamben*
Do.
Do.
J. H. Pemberton
J. H. Everest
Do.
L. 0. Pittman
Ledni Oathrie
Do.
XdHood
A . T. Ragiand
(Thoctaw, Okla.
W.W.Ivea
Oeo.C. iDng
Do.
Frank A. Thackery
ICartin J. Bentley
DocBoaty
Jones, Okla.
S. W. Manweil
Do.
Henry Murdock
J. B. Charles
Btf^iid, Okla.
Joaepn Murdock
Lee Patrick
Do.
Moch-e-ne-ne '..'.'.
Ora Waner
Harrah, Okla.
Mo->hii-«hA
Henry Jones
Kookuk Falls. OkU.
Wah-pe-pah
J . M.'Crossland
Do.
Chans' White
Horace Spoed
Outhrie, Okla.
Jaa. t.' Farrall
J. W. Scothom
Do.'
W.N. McOoe
Sam Patrick .
Mnrdock, Okla.
Hanyi^Mi/i . . .
Joe Billy
Do.
T. W^ Whittaker... .
Snakprnau , t t r
Do.
J. C. Chrianey
Long M«-n ^^-t
Do.
M- V JliLln ,
John Scott
Do.
Fred Stnibe
James Sloat
Do.
Geo. H. Kerfoot
Wm. Sloat
Do.
CJ.Bocher
Ben. F. WlUIams
Norman, Okla.
0. K. Harryman
Samuel L. Patrick
P. 8. Hoffman
Chandler, Okla.
D.P.Sparlu
Do.
H. 0. Bailey
E. L. Conklin
Do.
Oeo. B. Qraff
Thomas Clary
Shawnee, Okla.
Paul F. Cooper
B. J.Clardy
Do.
H. B. Dexter
N. B. March
Do.
A. N. Dexter
B. D.Calvin
Do.
Sydney Schram
Mr. Jarvis (partner of
L.B. Hellaker).
Neal, OkU.
If. E.Woods
Thomas MoColgan
1
Exhibit No. 173.
DbPABTMBNT OF THE iNTERtOR,
Office op Indian Affairs,
Washington, April H, 1907,
Hon. Hbnrt M. Tsllbr,
Denver, Colo.
Sir: In answer to your letter of April 11, 1907, I beg to aajr that the persons whose
names appear on the list sent to you on April 0, 1907, comprise those only who have
knowleoge of material facts relating to the affairs of the Kickapoo Indians.
It was carefully prepared and is based on correspondence on file here and informa-
tion of employees of the Department.
A number of those named are in a position flatly to contradict material statements
in testimony and assertions already in the record. All others can testify to important
iajctR that have not been brought out. Hence these persons must be heard or the
truth as understood here will not be obtained.
Any further delay in the work of the committee is unfortunate, for the lot of some
of the Kickapoos under existing conditions is very hard; and if the committee can not
devote the time needed to hear the material evidence obtainable, it devolves on the
Indian Office to uree the Department of Justice to bring the proceedings necessary to
protect these helplesB people and to recover the lands of which the Indians claim
tbey huve been deprived by durefls and fraud.
AEFAIBS OF THE MEXICAK KIGKAPOO INDIANS. 2S01
With a view of complying; to your requirement as to the character of the evidence
which it ifl proposed to put m on behalf of the Indian Office, I have caused the list of
witnesses sent you to be classified as nearly as possible, and the general subjects con
ceming which they have actual knowledge is mdicated in the statements preceding
the several divisions of the list of witnesses.
The "theory^* of the office may be sumniarized thus: It is advised that a real investi-
gation will show that most, and perhaps all, of the deeds taken under the act of March
3, 1905 (33 Stat. L., 1048), and June 21, 1906 (34 Stat. L., 325), are fraudulent; that
manv are pure forgeries; that the pretense of a pool and trusteeship made by anyone
is false; that the entire connection of M. J. Bentlev with the Kicxapoos has been a
continuous series of outrageous wrongs; in short that anything he mav have done
having the appearance of Being for their benefit was for the purpose only of further-
ins a sinister aesi^. '
Earnestly desirmg the truth to be brought' out, the Indian Office can only insist
that the witnesses named be examined, because the truth will not be known until
their evidence is heard.
Some of these persons will willingly tell what they know when their attention is
directed to the facts by proper questions, but very many will be reluctant witnesses.
However, if a representative of the Office, conversant with the facts the witnesses are
acquainted with, is allowed to be present and supplement your examination, the
truth can be ascertained.
Very respectfully, JF. E. Leupp, Commissioner,
List No. 1, — ^Witnesses who either procured deeds from Mexican Kickapoos under
the provisions of the act of June 21, 1906, or that of March 3. 1905, and other persons
who were interested in the lands of the Indians covered oy such deeds, together
with others who were present in Mexico during the time Messrs. Bentley, Grimes,
Chapman, and others were contesting for the lands of these people, or have knowl-
edge of deeds taken since then:
C. J. Benson. Doc Beatty.
W. L. Chapman. J. H. Everest.
Willard Johnston. Henry Jones.
C. R. Johnston. Lee Patrick.
C. M. Ca<*e. J. B. Charles.
A. L. Brown. P. S. Hoffman.
L. C. Grimes. E. L. Conklin.
W. C. Grimes. Joe M. Adams.
Cal. Moore. Peter P. Ratzlaff.
E. W. Sweeney. G. F. Graham.
Manuel Mills. John T. Reagan.
W. W. Ives. Much-e-ne-ne.
W. S. Cade. Mo-sha-she.
Joseph Clark. Wah-pe-pah.
B. B. Blakeny. Jimmy Jacobs.
Ida B. Bentley. A. P. Watson, sr.
M. F. Eggerman. A. P. Watson, jr.
S. A. B. Hart. F. B. Reed.
Frank A. Thackery. H. T. Douglas.
Martin J. Bentley. J. M. Aydelotte.
Henry Murdock. W. F. Ramsier.
Joseph Murdock. R. C. Conine, Harrah, Okla.
Charley White. Lou S. AUard.
Rachel Kirk. D. N. Kennedy.
All these names appear in the list heretofore sent you, with the exception of R. 0.
Conine, of Harrah, OKla., who is an important witness, and whose name was inad-
vertently omitted.
Of the foregoing, Messrs. Sweeney and Moore were before the subcommittee during
the session of Congress, and were pe^taiitted to return home because of the fact that a
subcommittee was to eo west for the purpose of taking testimony and they could
there be examined further.
Messrs. Benson, Chapman, Willard Johnston, Brown, L. C. Grimes, W. C. Grimes,
Moore, Sweeney, Mills, Clark, Ida B. and Martin J. Bentley, Thackery, Henry Mur-
dock, Joseph Murdock, White, Beatty, Jones, Graham, Conine, and Rachel Kirk
were present during the troubles in Mexico over conveyances of Indian lands. Ratz-
laff was at Eagle Pass on another occasion when lease money was paid to a number of
the Indians.
2308
AFFAIB8 OF THE MBZICUK KIOKAPOO I^fDIANS.
The following Indians in the list— Much-e-ne-ne, Monaha-she, and Wah-pe-pah —
have also been in Mexico and know much of interest. The other persons named
have a direct interest in the lands in question.
Lut No. £. — To testify as to truth of material statements now of record and whether
or not the statements accredited to them or about them are truthful. They all have
an intimate knowledge of the affairs of these Indians leading up to the legislation
relating to the title to their lands.
Frank Steams.
J. H. Aydelotte.
Sidney Schram.
James T. Farrall.
F. B. Reed.
J. C. Chrisney.
M. V. Bain.
Geo. H. Kerfoot.
T. W. ^Vhittaker.
W. N. McGee.
C. J. Bocher.
O. K. Harryman.
D. P. Sparks.
H. O. Bailey.
List No. 3. — The persons whose names api>ear in the following list have a personal
knowledge of important events in the admmistration of the affau^ of these people by
lepreseutatives of the Government, the ends in view by those responsible for the con-
dition of the Indians, the methods taken to secure their removal from Oklahoma and
induce them to express dissatisfaction with the conditions imposed on them by law,
and transactions by which the Indians and the Government were defrauded.
J. H. Beatty.
W. S. Pendleton.
H. G. Beard.
J. H. Maxey, sr.
J. H. Maxey, jr.
J. M. Remmington.
L. Wheeler.
H. B. Dexter.
A. N. Dexter.
Fred Strube.
Geo. B. Graff.
Samuel L. Patrick.
Harry Mead.
T. W. Alford.
B. F. Hamilton.
W. L. Leeright.
R. E. Woods.
Horace Speed.
J. W. Scothom.
D. T. Flynn.
Lee Bailey.
Lina B. Lunt.
Elizabeth Test.
Ledru Guthrie.
S. J. Scott.
E. W. McFall.
Geo. L. Rose.
W. N. Maben.
Ewers White.
W. S. Search.
J. H. Woods. •
S. C. Vinson.
A. B. Jones.
Joe Hand.
L. A. Hampton.
Mr. Hampton, father of L. A. Hampton.
J. A. Skaggs.
Martin Flomming.
Sam Patrick.
Joe Billy.
Snake-man.
Long Man.
John Scott.
James Sloat.
Wm. Sloat.
Ben F. Williams.
Thomas Clary.
B. J. Clardy.
N. B. March.
B. D. 'Calvin.
Mr. Jarvis, partner of L. B. Hellaker.
Geo. E. McGinnis.
Sidney Clarke, jr.
Wm. Keller. .
E. C. Stannard.
Fred Riley.
Oliver Humbarger.
F. W. Boggs.
S. T. Pierson.
W. P. Dix.
Jno. P. Jones.
G. M. D. SteeL
J. R. Shive.
W. J. Riggs.
W. P. Haworth.
Hal Johnston.
M. Cofftn.
J. H. Pemborton.
Ed Hood.
L. G. Pitman.
Paul F. C(H)per.
E. W. Miller.
S. P. Larsh.
J. L. Nations.
L. B. Hellaker.
Z. T. Wright.
A. D. Humbarger.
Tom Chambers.
A. T. Raeland.
Geo. C. King.
S. W. ManweU.
Ora Waner.
J. M. Crossland.
AFKAIBft or 1!BE MKXlCAy KiCKJJPOO TWmikWtk, SSOt
KlBIMl 'So.JM.
9%mm or IxmAS Avrln%
WwJiCTfgwi, XHnmrfii 7, /MT.
Gi3Pn.KMKx: I ksi« tibe hcoor to wqioit ika m aaj gPM^ <^ exkibits vikkk yoK
Mttyut sppaatdiBg to tbe repat «f jnwr mvuu^tfioa jo« iadade a jna^ge fnoim
teiacr soit W ZK'oa Ifaj 3. LfOS. to t^ cbflinBaBisf tbe Soalc- OmnBiKM^ ca iMliim
^JilbarF cKUBeotas^ ^m tlK- sev^Ed is^BV m the peadmp amanl ladiiB inanifiatiiM
lidl v^kii hftd iKTr^- be^c kcB&Ilj BobaBittiMi to tine iM^atmuBUL fa vepmL. Oanism
«f %Ms k«t<v wen- flCBt to ^Imt M«di«^» <rf the ladiSB ASun tamuaXUBm «tf badi
koosBK. sadiidia^ dkae ■npm.^^as of Iwitk triio ksd beoB d«a^9tf«d to amiter ca tike
pcizitt -gf difffi^TiEieaMSt b^twtien the SfiaaSc- and the fiovae c€ BiEppeBeBiatri«a.
Izi unr iiirnail disnBflRKQS vitli tlM* &»aie eoaiBzn^Eic while the bill wm m ptwxw
flf •crjoipktacA I fcMl fUl^ v>Efyc«adii(DT»yjttJftMiiaae»""^<fc'^g"M"i^
m t*it. cs- the mBKrrkI in jubt ^idb^r «a j c€ tht paxrvjtMMs vpon the alienukMi <€ tike
liaidt <f the liadiMW attAdsuHd to the Kx^apoo JI^esct. imkfli a vkblieale aoqviniaee
of ihe Uzi23/eid S^a&et G c>i-«niiBeiit ffioa fvther refpc^HbilitT fer thfm mre unuumA
T hfcil ffliH T-rrih f^riiri i^ri^ t^-nrTitrf whrv hi-^f-gTiiM- trrr lirrinrr t hit ^Ithrrtyh I lin ithi
tber v^t^Q&d iaT^ been vser to §Unr m the Uutod SiJOmt and tEEpK/r^ their hnofrr ;^
if dbej vcQ&ld be h^ppoa ectsap to 31«xiec» the^ hstd a pcsiect n^^ ^ 0^ theR; and I
fiKiola wjL ixn^sd^fFt-mTSh ^m*^ pnnrxkd the Uziii<eid SuSi^ Gcrr<es!!aaK«zt v^a^ ndk'inEd
fnam f^rti^r nsprjoBiLiLiiT ^jr t£tam. sb sbj sut c€ dsTidMi hSht^auoot wvd^ kame iqua
<>Qr Of^.ir*nnDesl the «2Zii&ir bordesi cf T&pcmaah^ljty vnilijicdn <[^^^QXK.i. Whies the ootm-
■Bisaai^. bc.v<e--T4es'. decided v.- s^cfX iLt*- pfczaesxph resucnrixi^ n^irkticof fTuokiieM. Kjoij
the Absei£i/ei& KklafMXiE. bot a^.' tbe ^i^irxiBee. JMav^brc^ C»ddce^ uad'H achitaa, I
iadruKkd is ti^ li^aei-'cf orjrriTTai^^Bt tbe pMBi^ -ykbda lijik^f :
'' Ihif puaiSBaphr»iicnr«» jil reitzicxiw<«a ihe aJe Ji;:^ izirsi&bQccecf all faoad^. is-
hoiS'Hd'Grot^enrifie. ciikdiiLbi g ^ irjiry.. T»aoii w»m ^.-B^i ^J ^jR q-^«.w^,t^t^ r4fc^i«»w* CmA^^
and UliciLkaF i^Jf^ifcHanr vxiii the h!kJui{Kicitf azid SKUT^sftd'^sa izi zht Caited Mfttf^^. aad
that asT iio<iiii fa^i;yr> a^^«Sj(i& in OikliiMOBa <v i»m<»»»^' T'tmUiCjry. aaid CkODraadeBt tif the
Usoed'Staa^ft. naj kast ink aSkcaziecM aiihiMii re«nctktt iae a peKkd act e3UDteda%
fire T«ais: n ai^'^ naihtcrax*^ ihe pttKsa «r z^^si '^ kza hariiif the can: asd caausdj 4d a
■uziv aUcnuEi^ v,> ikiifie Tibe- ximior'f ftS^cczLftesss ftor a like poiMi, czfie|Pt that tMb wmdt
tf-MT EBST i^xseod bejcsfd ih»- Biuskorttj <if ihe alkstee.
" Th^ lAntcruiiii^ fr&ozi iu kxatiiiA tzi ihe balL a&d taiboi is coDzxcctiaB viih what
gotm before ^£«c ::if^i aiiiicit dct&cs anio-. viH ^kv^btjes be conadaed br aaijiaBe mai com-
T€B9i^» visit ibe iM^jt z/j lA- ht acxxxdaaoe viah the dtusig^ to ciiabiaaate ih^ Me^tmm
Kkrkitff^at Mid mtc^ vi ibe ^bMwsie^ ae hare caA t&dr lot viih then Iroaa teihcr oob-
wii^c&wjb aa 1^ bitj^ Ki ihe GcnrccoicjieiDi- Bm vhj hare the iM^Kwaavf^ Gaddoi^
asd Wk^Jsj^ bees iiaciiukd? Tluf ioc^ like a pnianybaaix to a nil bort i ■!!■■■■
^' 71^!^ M xic pr^nriacxD kr the ffioacfcer iitf ytfffujff ia iee aamle to tlbe •"«*^«— and
WDxm pusrhnftifss -wrz^i Vx4l irzth mss^^^':^ upLUi a daJe ciusuwl under %h^ lav, tuciiaw
it » n'A er^^-cr.ieic I?- aach pssectz. li^^eT^r l»^iiu^ no -cafr vaj <i Aamia^ thtt the title
to the luDd ba^ ^ots^ric injo iL'^ Uiiiie-:: ^■u.n>*« v^- -ibe alkic:ie«»-. azd foc^ naocif beinf all
tike 3EKrt ci5i':-::L'' tI/*!. ibe iJi- n::.ei*- bii* t*%i«L 22>C3icitd u- «*: t^' Ifexico. &>. jxaabkaJlj,
CEi^apanj V. ib^ ^xodiis pJ^uL -cicvld be so^e cf |irc<:an2ie a de^ fmrim
azkd Kczk^ pfsvjLs TT_i^in xicf: be^jk.!^ v.- pff«is«^si.i liztd b&xe j«ciaBd«d an insnaBent vhick
WM men ^-x^cmied t-y ill iMcriani iJkct«eKr- I bar-e ^:4&e repeasiedij' oa nwod a» in htivr
<i«eps3a2iaa^ fpLOD f^;:riL^ a^j^jza wizh ib» Gc^r^mBent ail t^ KirlcBpotf whoare in
lfcexx& asti d«^re Vj T»z».rr- ib^re: tm i<o -dc> ibk ihe lsvd«9ilinf wisktharallo^
naeos K^a^i u» pff^anride icr ibr ifiRnuLf^.^e .i jAS^eiLie ia iee azspSre to theia. a& ^bst anj
pvrciscaKr l^uriii^ ibeir luctdf ccnJd c^:tkr^^ kz. abstnct <i m3e asd the pnsajoskm. A
the eviS«cjtcie ib^r^fif. H«r -rinJa "iberL kucrir ib^i he vnf ^^tULiiar a^sa be paid kr.
ThiF w-ci^jd iicii iScir: -. rtr}- iL-^^.i pr-.r.^'.ii»ii i-x ibe Ixidiaztf- bm if h fcisF tb^s. I aat no
fcsBUL -arlT. iir.«er aZ tlo.:. bk^ '^.-x^c d'.ciH- ix; ibtsr liebiJf aiDd aH ibe aazsosp tbej haiie
hsKi. ib».i ibe (<-rr.cy —■rf^T fbiJ^lc fRiZ izisisi ':i|>:»L ■d*€*sDd2i4r i^MEsa «yfcj?p«g ibtar arhile
" I *5c 'liiJT.c. b:^ej-*?r. ibkii ibe ixfcSie? ci ibe tdbef ^wiid be «tiiiajzaa«d- cxceptiqr
thre ILk-5aij»coj a^*:: ^:^-»T/e•«_ Tbe prcTTfa'.ifL i:r 3«fts:!ir I i»fard ai§ dsaiT'effr-^K- aawi J
vQisic >&v^ ibe 2iuDi<- ^.i- 1*^ bi>z>ilei:: tnr "Jie fJ>:n;i<e«tf a^ b€s< iber saj. T^tere ifcfid
be HLf pevt-isbEi iz: ib^ jji-r shTui^ vb^- ibiJI I-eaee ibe jazxk icr tbe h^A'jrjutiist^ nskar h if
tike iniecxkn to bs^jie isfum the Ifidim Office prafTinDr rnnj»iiiriie catifli^ In
2296
▲FFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIGKAPOO INDIANS.
ExraBiT No. 169— [Bentley]— Continued.
I
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
96
99
100
101
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
Name.
Maiy Penetho (Kansas Indian) . .
Pe-Qua, No. 221
Pes-Ko-Nah-Ah. No. 99
Pum-Y-Tum-Moke, No. 238
Qua-To-Quah. No, 89
Shawnee Doctor, No. 463
8ke-Mah-Tho-Pe. No. 144
Tah-Nah-Ke, No. 152
Tah-Nah-Ke-Ah. No. 262
Tah-Pah-Seah. No. 241
Tah-Pah-She, No. 12
Tah-Pah-The-A, No. 241 a
Ta-Pa-Hah. No. 78
ThI-The-Qiia. No. 271
Tho-Kah-Qua-Miick. No. 272
Tuck-Kum-Me, No. 100
Wah-Ko-Quah. No. 93
Wah-Nah-Ke-Tha-Hah, No. 250..
Wah-Pah-Uo-Ko. No. 210
Waw-Pah-Sose. No. 21
Wah-Pah-Che-Qua-Quah. No. 31.
Wah-P©<:he-Quah. No. 280
Wah-Pe-Ke-Che, No. 26 J
Wah-Puck-We-Che. No. 225
Wah-Sko-Tah, No. 145
Wah-Sko-Tah. No. 145
Wa-Tha-Pe-Quah &
Wah-Theck-Ko-Na-Hah. No. 67. .
Wah-We-Ah. No. 163
W»-Ah-Che-Kah, No. 47
W»-Hah-Ni-Hah. No. 114
We-Sko-Pech-O-Que, No. 87
We-Ta-Ma-O-Tha. No. 154
Total.
Received
by
Bentley.
Returned
Bentley.
0,F.
111. 552. 50
4,158.06
333.63
338.21
1,451.30
616. 32
30<."0
2,641.46
1,546.21
282.01
1,078.-30
5(» 0{)
a'>3. 30
260.67
100.00
?5\. 51
526.25
806.64
271.: 6
450.00
1,443.00
4,819.86
1,510.40
2.455 85
3.216.71
17,000.00
2, 100. 00
S5,010.00
2.100.00
S122.fi6
100.00
800.00
100.00
.. .
fi9.n
74.75
81.00
680.00
100.00
716.00
100.00
97.22
MX 71
82.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
82.00
ea«7
82.00
K)0.00
100.00
71.36
600.00
300.00
600.00
300.00
82.08
100.00
1.600.00
oOO.OO
888
82.00
141.00
6.308.88
5. 160. 3 i
347. 61
10. 4So. 53
,'i21.f.6
272.50
2.131.50
100.00
6,100.00
100.00
4,400.00
147.61
131. 0&
4&00
1,000.00
1.000.00
6a 70
175,951.02
32,200.00
C800.00
31,400.00
27,391.40
4,060.91
A Exhibit Thackery. Account page 88 should be page 86, parties' names are rBveraed.
ft Not a member of Kicking Kiokapoo Trilie (Oklahoma) Mexican Indian,
e Eight hundred dollars used for ail the Kickapoos; due Quotoqua t4,108.60.
Exhibit No. 170 [Embry].
lAsi of cases where Frank A, Thackery was appointed guardian of incompetent Kickapoo
Indians, showing the date of application for appointment and date of appointment,
POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY.
Petition for * «««i«»«»^..«.
.pp.„J.™entApP^«^t
Peah-twyh-tuck | July 13.
We-sko-peth-o-que do .
Ab-ko-tne do.
-I-
-do.
-do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
.do.
1906 i
Wah^e-ma-quah
Mah-ahe-nah
MoibHiho-qua-to-quah . .
Wah-tah-tah
Kah-ka-nah-che-kah
Kah-ke-ne-peah
Fe-oee-she
Men-ah-pe
Medk-kf-kah
Ah-^a-tho-the ,
8ho-e-nah-quah
Ma-ko-the-wuah
Ha-nah-the-quah-qua-ah .
Wah-eha-ko-flkuch
Ah-na-tho-huck do
If e>na-mesh do
8hah-kah-tah do
Moch-e-nen^ I July 16.1906
liut-twa-ah-quah do
Me-nah-quah I do
July 23,1906
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
9997
Xaul]»||
1 tritw firndk A.
Lococj cocyrr.
C"^nym> ^!V3iCS[!Bi Vsslmm SBsrvnsSy
L feiw siULy fiQi"^* M?^ acw^ nuiar yiur car*'* i IBbw 0x007' jCi:niii»nni rf fiami
ix ifl) hiK3» '::u>«sL T'flL»f»> jmit pocflxc^ "n iA& fnAvxn» if !2ii» j^sncT' ic johug^^urj aow
2. miw naiTT ffif^ynrn Tpiui ^ad ^wii^rr^si iiSctsasim zf had. 3C ymr ig^mirr ir sift^
Ervixur va, jmd *rirr::Ttn-iif ic Iftsaflc i pciruiia '^ "Uitiir incisngnxT' — A yotn ttth ar«*l7' L3flfr~
4. fey^ig- T^iL s z»aniiiii»*iic ryE:ffl"-»r in !#:#:« anni if las iiani»*«'Tf ill iili:nrrf*f»» hi yinr
ftuul'j r«»isH:ii:tLaiiip':f ^Oiiii. iiL ifit* iiruik nick f:ir:ii^iwt Sir liit* piirpr.w* uujiisr *ut&
tBgaiacmxL vliiiii v^ic jaai -»^»f:!: ly '.rit^ if "Zi^ '?»*f!r»?ar7 if -iii» rar.«*r:iir at IIKH?
(^) If JodL % 5»»r!intat?iiE r»a»nfSP a 3i:n 7»€ -^ncr^7 inmctia&sfi '17" t^^l iir^ ohbij?'
WBBisrj TX aihafipsmiT rsmuizt Tztria:«.*r»<i? *r ^-t* jnii & p#aamnfflcu: r^fintd if ail
Ibes^ and i»*ajrl& x ttsht loifiana «nr» J^vxiiflrj I^ lidOfi'*— ^ Jo. C^ JL lyrniwyriw^
9898 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
register for the Absentee Shawnee tribe ol Indians has been completed, and a similar
register for the Mexican Kickapoo tribe of Indians has been started, making a total of
aKmt 800 registered, and about 1,960 nnregistered. (e) No.
6. (a) Are you carefully observing the regulation for issuing licenses lor the mar-
riage of Indians and requiring returns of such marriages to be mi^e to you and recorded
in permanent fonn at your subagency? (6) How many returns of marriages have thus
been made at your agency since the regulations went into effect in 1901?— (a) No.
(fr)NoBe.
7. (a) What number of Indians at your agency receive rations of food in any form
from the Government? (b) What number receive clothing from the Government? —
(a) Nona. (6) None.
8. In your opinion, what proportion of the adult Indians at your agency or sub-
agency are '4ntelli^;ent, sober, uid industrious'' enough to be ame to use wisely and
propeny their own mdividual share of such tribal fim<u as the Government may hold
m trust for them, if such funds were to be broken up into individual holdings on the
books of the Treasury within the next two years? — ^All of them.
9. What number of Indians at your agency to whom land has been allotted are now
leasing a whole or a part of their allotment of land? — ^About 1,000.
10. (a) Is there any material change within the last three years in the number of
Indians at your agency who support themBelves by their own labor? (6) Does the
chanse show an increase or a decrease in the number of the self-supporting? — (a) Yes.
(6) Tae chan^ shows a decided increase in the number oi self-supporting Indians.
In conclusion I would state that it should be remembered that ue Citizen Band of
Pottawatomie Indians comprises about 1,670 Indians who are scattered in almost every
State in the Union, and it is impossible to prepare a permanent register of Indian
families unless funds to the amount of at least $2,000 are provided for the same.
This office insists as far as possible upon legal marriages of all Indians, however, the
courts of this Territorv have held that a conmion-law marriage is lawful.
Very respectf uUy,
Frank A. Thackekt,
SuperirUenderU and Special Diibvimng Aqtml.
Bxhibit No. 172.
DxPiJLTMKMT or THB INTERIOR,
OmcB OP Indian Appairs,
- WotihingUm, April 6, 1907,
Hon. Hbnrt M. Teller, Denver^ Colo.
Sir: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of three letters from you, one dated March 23,
1907, addressed to the Seoretary ol the Interior and referred here on March 25, the
next dated March 25, and the last dated March 26. These all relate to the investiga-
tion authorized by Senate resolution No. 261, directing the appointment of a sub-
committee " for the purpose of ascertaining all the facte with reference to the affairs of
the Mexican Kickapoo Indians."
In response you are advised that a statement concerning the claims of these Indians
filed by Chester Howe will be prepared and sent ^ou as soon as practicable. Duplicate
copies of nearly all these clamu were offered m evidence before the subcommittee
which sat during the session of Congress.
Your request for a copy of the expense accounts of Superintendent Thackery will
also be complied with as soon as I can find out just which are wanted. The vouchers
with subvouchers attached, covering expenditures made by him while in Mexico and
after his return, relating to the investigation undertaken by George A. Outcelt, were
put in evidence before the Senate committee, and therefore it is presumed that you
aesire something else.
The foregoii^ relates to your letter of March 23.
In view of the fact that charges have been made before the Committee on Indian
Affairs and the subcommittee which sat till March 5, and that two of the three mem-
bers d your subc(Hnmittee have already expressed their belief that this office has
b«en guuty of wrongdoing, it still seems to me only just and right that the office should
\m represented at your hearings and have the same privileges extended to it as are
allowed to its accusers.
Your letter of March 26 expresses the hope that the committee may begin its work
at E^e Pass about May 2, and you request the names of witnesses who the office
thinks should be examined at Esf le Paai, as you do not wish to summons any wit-
j»ea9e& there who can be examined in this city next fall.
There is incloeed a partial list of the witnesses who this office has every reason to
believe know ma,ny facts pertinent to the invoBtAgiJtioti 70U «x^ ^vck% to conduct.
» a fsod aMBf <«AflBi wfeflBi H ii 1
HMA it B tBOEC' «
■irnii ih I wgt nefaria faa gi&arinMig tibeir
T<«B v3l ascfr t&aMt ^af firt ceoEpdiMs
b w>»dfl Ik: a ^Qicr^ freae CHk iir^ S8&»ai^ fO'
Mh«f('^tii' fioal «^i'anir!HMi'jia (of an
' wto lb« m m mem Waamwf,^ Oldai^
^ is s letterlBBt wlnt ««& waaeaB
r 4tf CMS mutm utatemmmfz tat
. mmuaat ^k^ c&de ik inaaij nwrnTg
Ik teasnnniEj <^ i^«k- wmtuimff wsatm hit bad
■iiA«r ti pi»E9MUf firi^^ ia aorf jdbfMii Eiisfl^ I^bKt
#aiB mfsti b<r iwari. T<%ik wfll Hiaiii^ ■ iB mbuI sty tiBtptUii^ wimi I mj t&ac ar» wBttTT
wftiitf I ft I iiiiiif II I ■ laiiiin HUM II iiiiiiiifl lim IJiinfi ■ iiii n ■ ihiiimjuj^ aiiia miiw iiln laiiiMJij
(Si\aTws^ih^taf^Tm§itm0mt»naamim
hf dke- wiBBieaKa «ei9««m«i W d«- iarfaarf fitt m ic^wxl al ^^hwbim, if ifeaHtiwi
atlaiMaag db^ (fmrne '^ Aie fcyailaigt aatr »» W BBm- ptaa.. la &e iaeiwc. idbtn^
a!f$aK9&if{ ^dA a» wvsaj/m» <i ■ imiii at Ea2&»- Pmt ba fioaJ^ •
dMr «!siaD(^B7 ^ dbaas: oaaKii iMseia if <Qte^^
Hmgr' SRr iav^oal fKEs^na Eiiotf aorar EiOEfii!' Piaf isStam t&A'jmt ^x^^rmtd ^ Hkt firt^
wiisv is lEj jpad^siMBe. siuwM W wJifapaagil b>^s^m- yMg <gwiBifn»#' ac Eii^ Dh^
ioe laoiiiac gnre <rf dneir jwAflflgawa at ife pruaaic sam^v aori aob oo&i lioe shk 4tf
dbflB anc ia XooKflt
I ^fe- BTiC ikaiMr w&sl&cr JIMS «xf(M ite 4i&^
at maj npjuife ia tikEH ^qhbidfj. a* it msj k imysiMfefe- b» aociiBii- jM^^feit 4B( i
TiiMumafft «A* sn^gsfflL ^Aw^^^^vr. ti&fltt Ife ]»«&*» wVi' /<T;iizi!ffi»fl wrck Xr. ESfscficj far
dda av t^ KsfiaifK^ laoiiti »«b ai> h^ mM ^BL&evi tbl ^fkmmrtt^ di^A^ Sni& irmmm
wfe % a£B apg^flMaaBft- an*- pioesiaaeBAfij iKcdjf^t'ai O^^abfimi^ Dtae fcsKidimv aat
aviFilEy ^rtr <9Kljr acs«i<B'.a '';€ nii«»- mmmrmr^tt^ wixiL a tmw ^^f ixtszu^ ^lor «aKr ttfiff-
qEznnsc pixfe&^acj and ODMUftrsi; VjBM- janBoau^ &-i s^^uk- faatiaaft.. v^>' im- iB-yiwamBitii
te &«»r i3C&»s$j ijft£pfes OL T&»v''i£ s&Mi: '9siu£xBHia SAW pcs-^^s^se^ I Rd»r oipftcsfeSj
fift-lfftaBR. GiTi^^iig^iOmjaft, wfeMisriaBMa appear a&gMBysaa^
hamm^ h^ii is. r.kai <rK;^,
I masf msj m, (^jm/dssBsxiXL, levaj ^useaaoL i^oet waatk sgif/^ats (ya, ^iut wtxtmsfammf
fitt kava^ MouHihia^ c&tfS wfm&i B« «l iBaa«« fa %^^ Wh^^iusr "^ m wmmm
ta z/M wiskc h^ ir^tiBkEBr knr^w^^ «Ka iie <ieMiiiizBKi$ <milj a^ an »T:.iininnagB«Bc lioi I fm
mfsrj aaaot ^^huA ^a^M ^*wk '^aa^ bj a fer^^er ^RnBBt <^f ^imsdemsais. be <^nacp«8ei£ fla <&-
r ibrsi uro&m 0^ ^jwil kwswhaigk wMidk viE WRfr am iaqpfirraaix h^amn^ «b ^aar
T«Bj aspeedbEilj, F. E. Lsmrr, Om
!
JJk^fi&HIL
SiBZK
A«-.
t^t a«niHnT
Dn>.
Dn.
Dn.
Dn..
Dn.
Dn.
Dn.
Dn*.
Dn.
Dn^
Dn.
Dn.
Dn*
Cn.
Bia. 1
2. T. Dnn^lotf
S. f E:<umiivnL
l^ ML JLj-teUiCi*
^ SuL-wam, Ottew
ar ir_ (ntoMmdff
Dnt
iFSte^ r-TLifft^m
Dnt
d It. JW&nff(;^iii
J- S. Jtj^tRintni^
Z,YL StfHxunui^&iir
&ii.
€^m.€m^ _
Dn.
Dn^
M^ktt^ammxs.
JtouiLy vnnaxm^
J SL 1Ia«7 jr
B. S. Sbtd^ufT
I. 2L ar<vw6»
Do..
lU €■ <^(^t*m»*
Dnt
WIC ^^yfscan
O^mmm
E^W. im^0mgT
mmo3AMM»
w.ar. B'wi _
wia^carfft „
iC ^3X»IIX
X iv «'11U» .
7n« SLuift
L- JL S^aio&^o.
£- JL Hkn^iim
r JL StMBP»
3LC itaufcirt
Dn.
Dn.
Dn.
Dn.
Dn*.
F,«La«iit
Dtu
Dnu
2tni.
ar iik %w3^n
j3R«t 5Ul»-T
TJ i *>niai*.&aL.
L. 'aaawrtHT -.,
Dn.
Win. C^UfiT
Dn.
Dn.
K.<Sl ^'iftSTt
i. ? VjdLffUI. «--
D*».
fill' ^r^irrf
-t. ? 1Br.fcSiMui.jr
ptHVur? f^^r^.ttiT
! T ar JSSmt^. ,
Ln.
Dn.
jaiMi.€l«rtt. _-
W^XTLapPumuC ,«^
Dni.
Oa.
2800 AFFAIRS OF THE MEXIOAK KIOKAPOO IKDIAK8.
List oftoitne$tes in Kiekapoo tnvetft^afum— Continued.
Name.
F. W. Bogga
8. T. Pierson
W. P. Dix....;
O. F. Onham
Jna P. Johm ,
JohnT. Reagan
O.M.D. Steel
Geo. H. Kertoot
J. R. Shive
IdaD. Dentley
W.J.RIggs...
IL F. Esgennan
W. P. Haworth
a A B.Hart
LoaS. Allard
HalJohnston
Mr. Coffin (real estate and
mining).
D. N. iCennedy
J.H. Pemberton
L. O. Pittman
Ed Hood
W. W. Ives
Frank A. Thackery
ICartin J. Bentley
Hennr Murdock
Joeepn Murdock
Mocn-e-ne-ne
Mo-flha-«he
Wah-pe-fMOi
Charley White
Jaa. T. Farrall
W. N. McOoe
Harry Mead
T. w. Whlttaker
J. C. Chrlaney
M.V.Bain
Fxed Strube
Geo. H. Kerfoot
C. J. Bocher
O. K. Harryman
D. P.Sparks
H. O. Baiiey
Oeo.B. Graff
Paul F. Cooper
H.B. Dexter
A.N. Dexter
Sydney Sch ram
B.E. Wooda
Thomaa MoColgan ,
Addreu.
Shawnee, Okia.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Tecumaeh, Okla.
Name.
Geo. L. Rose
W. L.McFall
E.W. Miller
W. N. Maben
S.J.Scott
S. P. Larsh
J. L. Nations
Ewers White
Ellaibeth Test
W. F. Ramseier
LIna B. Lunt ,
RachaelKirk
L. B. Hellaker
J.H.Beaty
Z.T.Wright
D. T. Flynn
Lee Bailey ,
A. D. Humbarger
Tom Chambers
J.H. Everest ,
Ledru Guthrie
A. T. Ragland ,
Geo.C. King
DocBeaty
S. W. ManweU
J. B. Charles
Lee Patrick
Ora Waner
U Henry Jones
J. M. Crossland
Horace Speed
J. W. Scothom
Sam Patrick
Joe Billy ,
Snakeman
Long Man
John Scott
James Sloat
Wm. Sloat
Ben. F.Williams ,
Samuel L. Patrick
P. S. Hoffman
E. L. Conklin
Thomas Clary
B. J.Clardy
N.B.March
B. D.Calvin
Mr. Jarvls (partner of
L.B. Hellaker).
Address.
Tecumseh, Okla.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Mcl^ud, Okla.
Do. -
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Oklahoma City, OUa.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Choctaw, Okla.
Do.
Jones, Okla.
Do.
Stroud, Okla.
Do.
Harrah, Okla.
Keokuk Falls, OkUu
Do.
Guthrie, Okla.
Do.
Mardock, Okla.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Norman, Okla.
Chandler, Okla.
Do.
Do.
Shawnee, OkUu
Do.
Do.
Do.
Neal, Okla.
Exhibit No. 173.
Department of the Interior,
Office of Indian Affairs,
Washington^ April t4, 1907.
Hon. HsNRT M. Teller,
Denver, Colo.
Sir: In answer to your letter of April 11, 1907, I beg to say that the pereons whose
names appear on the list sent to you on April 6, 1907, comprise those only who have
knowledge of material facts relating to the affairs of the Kiekapoo Indians.
It was carefully prepared and is based on correspondence on file here and informa-
tion of employees of the Department.
A number of those named are in a position flatly to contradict material statements
in testimony and assertions already in the record. All others can testify to important
facts that have not been brought out. Hence these persons must be heard or the
truth as understood here will not be obtained.
Any further delay in the work of the committee is unfortunate, for the lot of some
of the Kickapoos under existing conditions is ver>' hard; and if the committee can not
devote the time needed to hear the material evidence obtainable, it devolves on the
Indian Office to urge the Department of Justice to bring the proceedings necessary to
protect these helplesB people and to recover the lands of which the Indians claim
thejr have been deprived by durees and fraud.
ATWJkiMS or XHK wmrA^ JDCKAFOO nraiiiER. 3301
^jfuninsr ▼iati 'ibsv ftsrr**: i»t5nal kaiiflr^kfte- » znca^aaiff at 1^ «*&»m»*ani 5f?wiMte[^
laru a vlI SiW 'JLoz jacjsi. *ai^ '^••cisifit iZ_ :€ i&it 6^€*& ^uces Taifdv 'Jb»r k^ it Jftieti
i- jWy ^ SCSI L Ji^ - «a*i >mi!r iL ^iW M ±fas^ L 12S . «* 2nsftcx^*5c tans
'CsurzLiiiins ifrs:iai zi ^usom^^iK vT^aisr n ^jr doa i^inrinfiie s«r aaai^ fin^ ^mtt
hsrrmi 121*: £5.^«!xaseft^ ^ uaa^ ^x ^sjsm MSJii^ vac iir 12*^ ^nrp»i' milr if iw^h^p-
■me ^ ■tiriiw:^' c^gagL-
«»:izxt>: -^ liLHSi!: pssciB viS -v^csiK^ »&■ ip^os dbfT l2B£««' -Tioii ^leoT ac2i^aoii& m
^^ jm-^tiutt !f -a* *C5 :f J'ln*?: fl, S^W, 'jr '^ac '± Mic^jl 1- 1W& JKUi j^isr paaoitf
"•^I'v-*?^ 2iE*er»«.it£ ZL "suh 'statin ^ "a* Lbtizeis ^r.T*^^ &»r juiti -ja?*!^ v«M«r
-wrci, '.iLii^25 ▼ii: •»-«» ^p«i^!ii: zl Jfeiit^ gcmg ":a»»- lani*: iC^BRat E.«icii*7. "jamef,
■f*:aSr if t***^ lUuiSL BB&t ZSjSSLZ
m
L> "' ^rtrinii-^ E- L. •I'Oii^zL..
E> TC ^^!i*€-r. G- F. ^
M_ F- I^sr-mii- A. ?- "S'lr^-O- jr.
£. JL S "iiATL F 3^ 5^*i»«i
JlZ *.ii»r**^ i;i»T:f*r* i,-:r;,t.i5- f^, -ji,*. ;5s: it€r*r.'Q r* *#^ar. 7. 11. •»r:i Tii»- -er-'^^ori :c B. C-
T*r'-*!i'/f 'CI — '^'.
2803
AFFAIB6 OF THS MEXIOAK KIOKAPOO I|n)IAKS.
The following Indiana in the list^-Much-e-ne-ne, Mo-aha-she, and Wah-pe-pah —
have also been in Mexico and know much of interest. The other persons named
have a direct interest in the lands in question.
List No. 2. — To testify as to truth of material statements now of record and whether
or not the statements accredited to them or alx)Ut them are truthful. They all have
an intimate knowledge of the afifairs of these Indians leading up to the legislation
relating to the title to their lands.
Frank Steams.
J. H. Aydelotte.
Sidney Schram.
James T. Farrall.
F. B. Reed.
J. C. Chrisney.
M. V. Bain.
Geo. H. Kerfoot.
T. W. \VTiittaker.
W. N. McGee.
C. J. Bocher.
O. K. Harryman.
D. P. Sparks.
H. O. Bailey.
LUl No. 3. — The persons whoee names appear in the following list have a personal
knowledge of important events in the administration of the affaun of these people by
representatives of the Grovemment, the ends in view by those responsible for the con-
dition of the Indians, the methods taken to secure their removal from Oklahoma and
induce them to express dissatisfaction with the conditions imposed on them by law,
and transactions by which the Indians and the Grovemment were defrauded.
J. H. Beatty.
W. S. Pendleton.
H. G. Beard.
J. H. Maxey, sr.
J. H. Maxey, jr.
J. M. Remmington.
L. Wheeler.
H. B. Dexter.
A. N. Dexter.
Fred Stmbe.
Geo. B. Graff.
Samuel L. Patrick.
Harry Mead.
T. W. Alford.
B. F. Hamilton.
W. L. Leeright.
R. E. Woods.
Horace Speed.
J. W. Scothom.
D. T. Flynn.
Lee Bailey.
Lina B. Lunt.
Elizabeth Test.
Ledm Guthrie.
S. J. Scott.
E. W. McFall.
Geo. L. Rose.
W. N. Maben.
Ewers \Miite.
W. S. Search.
J. H. Woods. ""
S. C. Vinson.
A. B. Jones.
Joe Hand.
L. A. Hampton.
Mr. Hampton, father of L. A. Hampton.
J. A. Skaggs.
Martin Flomming.
Sam Patrick.
Joe Billy.
Snake-man.
Long Man.
John Scott.
James Sloat.
Wm. Sloat.
Ben F. Williams.
Thomas Clary.
B. J. Clardy.
N. B. March.
B. D.'Calvin.
Mr. Jarvis, partner of L. B. Hellaker.
Geo. E. McGinnis.
Sidney Clarke, jr.
Wm. Keller. »
E. C. Stannard.
Fred Riley.
Oliver Humbarger.
F. W. Boggs.
S. T. Pierson.
W. P. Dix.
Jno. P. Jones.
G. M. D. Steel.
J. R. Shive.
W. J. Riggs.
W. P. Haworth.
Hal Johnston.
M. Cofhn.
J. H. Peni I Morton.
Ed H(Kxl.
L. G. Pitman.
Paul F. C(H)per.
E. W. Miller.
S. P. Lar8h.
J. L. Nations.
L. B. Hellaker.
Z. T. Wright.
A. D. Humbarger.
Tom Chambers.
A. T. Ra^land.
GiK). C. King.
S. W. ManweU.
Ora Waner.
J. M. Crossland.
AfTAIBft or 1!BE WglTAW KiCKJJPOO iwmkwtk, SSOt
' SOU in- SK^ u& Mrr 1^ ItHWu 1&« ii» •^
dams^. mdfa>#mr ^isve xumir^ffiSf if iMib ^vte iwi Imhb 4>wignuft<ji u> vmtsr mm tike
Ill 3X!X TTnirwaJ S3Bt!lBHll1!S Vai&i 1^ SfTftM^ (CKOBBIttiSJW- vtxA*^ ^^(^ %SlI IROff OB ]
<tf tmis^&iLiaxi I iukS fftafa>fd 'vfFT ^^sm&t&T war juipieM «^?MHrMg ^i^ |^
an 5*4^.. tr i^ y^ORrrh^ zl jst ^n&tff wsj %£. ^Mt iMij^matf upoB tibs- j^ft^auOMa cf sitae
i^ipr -wuiiiQ innpt- iiffss waa v. tosinr jc t^ UaaBAid Srnirr siii£ jm^mnt- ^ffior ^kww ji^t
imzx; run^fa- m^iuiBiiiiihrr iir ilteom iff jbdt mm. -sf <Smdtfd aUffgngwifr wuiilLS &«si«' lyw
war ^sTtrp*?!!!!!!*?!!! 1^ mciis- inr*d»iL of Tesg^poiBiiiiLirT irj3[^iiis 'j^ncBfifl.. WS^bl idhs^ <!Qaft>
2iuBa«^.. itiw^»n>^^ dffCio^c 11 itO'.^ 1^ jigraRns^ 7»3u:n:n^ 2»iKz:!t^uBi ^tnn xs( foi^
1^ AtHf^Tx&H^ Eadks^i^jK. imt ijk i^ ^oniiiei. ij^uhmciffift. C^Myi;. saAlSrii^atM^ I
jmd 'Sitiosjii' KffihifLiur iri:^ '^ i^idkafKiai JcxiS iiaixr»fii6«£ 2l sittr C-amtid araifig , auk
l&HC ssnr flu'^ l^t<p jiqTi 4ii!(>tinLrM»- jfii '^^lii^'f'nii' <v Ji^v^taiM' X-fsxiuirjr. joifl smmBBiSeBft ^ 3&e
- l^m'TA^rucncd^'iruxL jot lacacauL ol i^ idIL noiS Sii»Bb sb tiuiixcfcsan wi^ vkait
0Mi ^iat]r>: AOiC ikyfi -vioi^J. tiai&tt jB!«tr. nLI o^Q^j^es W «(AaflBda«id ^ JB^iQBe aa ob-
fB^»ryr[>f^ JR "^tk 'hiOkOi ^ litfr K^nn^eOBK^ZIL. JBoB virj S^SSIfr liiir I>tib9|Q0tt, <
floifi 1Klk^£iUif^ ^itfCOi aeti<:^ik&ffC^ lli.& ik«.ik» lake a fiiaiiBisiavj i» & sifil s
%' lift*- i£2i^ iiMt jiu!»4»fC irjxL lirt^ rmi'*':: ^'u^i'^ '•% *iJHr ifiBii::;«»i. suS mmhjfomi ii^m^ d
liifr muRr drRi'im -rit*iL 'ii»* fcli:ir:.«r in** i»t»«L utoutiwc u jr. ic. JLsxksix. th jpii w ili iMt ,
Ifedtii- Kilt ^'JHr*' 1^' raxm^TL i^>*r>^ tnn "k:- oi- i^i» i^ IlK:ir'^fai^3af:«iii^^ifiBrjfiM'
jTrr'%nir-^ ianriur *i^*er iMZXiOf '.mia^ o^sxaci:: kix ibtjffiBEKa cf ix^ aaiS liks- yraBHuacaaa df
;ai^ ^vx^KsiiK'k iii*r»ftf B.^ v;uus *»ii*a kiii»ir -aiir. i«- itnf ^nnaiir viae i** pkiit^ int.
^'juid r*!rr*?: -•.•. «*^f»^ jr. hZK**'^^ ^ '^^ till- 5x "li*^ jiirM*an n. s»<»^ r^mAmiu^ hL TSKsacnaaBi
ipoxikd >&^^ 1^ jLfcjiOf V. i*^ iuai£r»ft t^- "i^ italx:nr»»itf^ nf tttac i^m/sj idmj ISueet ^oaaM.
i* m ^^njffi^iL jx. iA*^ ^-^ir mysii^ vii: iOikZl ^A^aeft lii^ jLimctf iir ^2*«r WLnr..i4tt. izxju«i ai s
2804 AFFAIBS OF THE MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIAK8.
short, my earnest opinion is that these Indians should be either entirely removed from
the protection and force of the Federal law and made to take their chances under
the local law they prefer, or else left under the general Federal law applicable to all
Indians.''
You will observe, gentlemen, that in the light of what you have discovered during
your recent trip to the Mexican bolder this passage was in a way prophetic.
As I have aostained heretofore from trespassing on your courtesy by interfering
in any way with the progress of the investigation, which I certainly wished should
be as deep and searching as possible, I b^ leave now to take notice of one incident.
In response to my application to your chaurman for abstracts of any statements which
had been made about me personally by any of your witnesses I have received the
following note:
''In this connection I desire to sa^r that I was in the city of Washington after the
appointment of the present Gonmiissioner of Indian Affairs was announced, and be-
fore he qualified and assumed the office. I called upon him at his office and attempted
to give nim some idea as to the condition of the Rickapoo Indians and mv purpose
toward them. He in a very arrogant and insulting manner said: 'If you nave any-
thing to present to me you may present it in writing, but you would have to swear
to it Defore I will give it the consideration to read it.' Thus insulted, I left his office
and of course did not present any commimication to him.
"COMMISSIONBB OW INDIAN AFFAIRS,
WaakingUm, D. C.
"Sir: I hand you herewith a correct copy of a statement made by me to the
subcommittee of the Senate on Indian Affairs, now investigating the affairs of the
Kickappo Indians. I recall no further personal reference to you, and assure you that
the above is correct.
• **W. J. Bentley.
"Washinoton, D. C, November 7, 1907.''
I recall Mr. Bentley 's visit to my office in the Wyatt Building shortly before I became
Commissioner. I had known him slightly for some seven years, but had heard from
some source, which I do not now remember, that he had been indicted and convicted
in a prosecution brought by the Indian Office in connection with some alleged mis-
appropriation of property while he was in charge of the Kickapoo Indians. As he
entered my room ne said:
"I don't believe you remember me?"
"Oh, yeSj" I answered, "but I supposed you were in the penitentiary."
"Noj said he, "they tried to put me there but did not succeed."
He tnen went on to tell me a story of persecution and the like, in which I became
interested, and presently asked him about how many Indians he had with him in
Mexico, what sort of a place they were in, and a number of similar questions. By-
and-by I inquired how they made a living. He answered, if I remember aright, that
they farmed a little, enough for their immediate necessities, but that they had good
hunting and fishing.
"Do they have any money to spend?" I asked.
"Yes," he said, "they have some money."
"Where do they keep it? Aren't they m danger of being robbed?'*
"They ^ve it to me to keep for them."
"What mterest do you allow them?"
"Oh, they don't want any interest; they just want to know that it's safe, and they
have every confidence in me."
"Then you have the use of their money at no cost?"
"That IS it. They are willing I should have that in exchange for taking care of
their money for them."
The whole scheme, as he outlined it then, with its peculiar form of trusteeship and
the lack of any title which I could discover which assured the Indians of a permanent
possession of their Mexican land, seemed to me so chimerical that I expressed my
astonishment to him. This drew from him in turn an apparently hearty invitation —
indeed, with some urgency — to come down to Mexico after I became Commissioner
and see for myself bow comfortablv his Indians were situated. I answered that per-
haps I would; at any rate. I would try to send some one in whom I had confidence,
even if I could not go myself. I have never known until this moment that I was ar-
rogant or insulting in manner; on the contrary, I assumed, from the hospitality offered
me. that my manner had seemed to my visitor entirely courteous.
The conversation was then shifted by Mr. Bentley to the wronp? he had suffered
at the hands of the Indian Office, and how the Office had been mislod by falso state-
ments about himself and his plans, and the like, and he announced that ho would
AKRAns or THE mrnTAig^ kkkapoo
qj ^a mg a6 aisy <gam<gmHiiisc and j^ «>gT fftg w&ajg ywHj witih mk. J^siftsfiS'
msit 'X' SET fiii^r?R£iiaaeF in ^ySx^n^, I iiufc ii: on t&f- aubs* hest t&et i msce c^cvrf me^
WBScan^ su£ smfsae ^i' ol M nhitc wrat xrysxnz ^vt Bi»i£cznic; I hbooss. ^jem£ gni^trv t»
flD^ 7«!iL as a ni^ ti^jieK' tj^tj pffemas' rihaak. m» Sir ^s- pocniiugr ira& viist^ I ffii^
IzL '^iohhi^iil irxE c&m. I maij aifti idkott iiETatsraBiiilis^ t&Biiut&iiiis t&el
ftas &«*fHi ii&ac (^ an iarxcgrimsHasr «ii^£j nrToiir r» sib: ac t:&fr ferMl. ^oBonAi i&f^ sriiStrr
^■FSESs. «&£ irmtBp3BB^ Q&g B^iixucjuius <# soij wtfi ^onnf^ ffi;J^gmii filter (t&BKsnE. ami aft
^iviiiE- fi];]^tiixiin3B&^ '?!ia Deans amo: atxrr cnc^firi^^e- 'li t&s* inr&ia Ofies' w&a ham cmss
kfSSBcs. 90 lancnipCBnns if 3K12 wbiu'M^ <&£ mnti vsotait^ ami no* tHr«ynVirgtff «if ao^r SkK
AnflJl TTTTf^iwrnwiy <^ t&isflr aaz^fos m-nHtu &« ai ^ -jscj (fc, tihs' oaCBSff tnnfier mriiefli^sb-
t^mfir ti&EK a s?^rasw <sf i;^ (sx^^^tts h*iSBnnsr<ibsOtmwjtl UMiiiiuiif ^^fr^gi^^w ti^Citfies
la. iFisr Vz gibes' mrrsilf m i^uer mms- dr,min^ I Rf^rost nferaqaimttta KsujnE im wte
BGK «!nraef?nie9EL
feanmul-j aQp*!ACP>it F. E. Lm:^. ^"ommigHniiigr of rrnfrun <^rFaai*^ w&Oi Eismi^ lizas.
^oiy 'P:FaF!i. iHT2«.f{f>5 i3ii srpf ihac uiifr iiaceimixu^ if oks bl che oiEe^am^ Daaer ads' tzoft
aaeitt aa shi* imiwa Trjsa Ebi z*.i^\'j ;c 21:1; mjj ::fu* liiiijm. Bxeesool^ bnsa^l
€C^fi; Hzutiazi i "ff^n* itia.imuiii.m^ jsui i<:-«:iiiHti UntTimff -r^t^niiff KdifflL ja
flDii iiiQi!fflrTL*miu»r 17- TnttTnir Jima«f TiiTiiig ^ca^aiTmisin: x ia 'liftr^mcs' pcMiiij ir»!il
tiii[^DSKi«ifi ^Lumiiiniiiii: ^uie I2itriwi iJirxiis iy iir»*ai9ii;y»fts, h»;dL iuza -kui Ibtr. aai£
ak tsciiat atjsur ' Tin. luiffl: iii aiidimir m j'-.tu" ;w:l imnaidrj*. Lei: t£j^ Xii^nsx 0*fic»
sut r>^«^'™T Eapia ^.-w.iiiii^iii'.a t^i:tit i.r t'ju ' If ^•^ '^hitniift j^^a ssxj 2tuil ^^
aoihiXL jad gi*m:i; a licriii ziii^Tiiau^j ixliI ziit**p»*iiii4*mift "ii irsfip iiui: j^Jir uirzanB
<!&Kiia£s*^ :ii iifiscTU'.!* .Lx zinr-Liij^ :t :r5..iiu fiuiwarritiiurT jsiii iuLX :c siiina^
«ff^rrr^ t^lft jatt nuH 17^ Ti:t«''x. I ~>^.'unn X. -iTariiUK -iml u*i£v*ii X 'Jit*7 irjial ii:r. wTJjft^
TS^t" iiiHW*r»ti " 7»s- ' I itiii>^<i vaj '^i-iry i-ii :it.n sip. "ii»iir iiuiit^ -*. -^. riCa 2iHr..»a*t
«f * Yjii^hmg -iit* p»*ii. * JLJ. .ui iiiil *n:.;»r!ii^iii:'tii 'ittrk .f -^Aj^ urrni.; tail :il 'wit* "t.^-ju^
mock, imw ± t^jl la^-i iHi^nL sip. -uii^.ir .^va nii^rutH s. vll !:l.ih^ jml i*_ hnr^ :c ■^^jl-Iu*, "^
W<dL I ia*i i;i«iL sip_ '^iir ;wtl iu*iii^ liiii '.^* itituitih -a m^ t.i«;iii: ::^ 2i lUiu: x mi
r mft ir.iimii*2a»:u* -^r-ii-iu* tail l:lii:7T^.:^ v. :r.iL^:ii:a :ui^ 'j;^«nrnt-nn ::j:ki: :2Lft
jkrrMom €m tmm imiiCA¥ kkkatoo
gAgyMigaptIaiiiM»:»<heirdhMeemliigiFiiiiifaMpcirthr
W iiiMiiiiirii m & dvi liUSrv irr IubmIL A» to k»
tifalw^i iJMi qfiwacampiipif fi«fl^rs.fKe3t: ''I>llr-
Kov, 1 4o BtfC aoMi. tt> Mf iv & i
aoc been. dcxK tlie fmrirMM bodi by QfpwvssamgaaL awi
afvm. The Om inifT omIes dwubmb impn—iliir to KxiaBBu awi tibn fiib to do
mtm. w^t ii; aa^ ^ommA thgir faiCTmfirt; and wb»v buittJ. iwi ndkiov teatiefB-
iij^u a faag ■enee <rf iiiii iiiif i ■ by boik wiriiwi m — » » inQwr. B«K as ravdb tekii^
tibe iaad. ic kHC from tbe w iHifin I»rfiMB> die ami^ tra^ ia tiiac the^ kHCter aever
hmk mpfwal mfwembip m k it alL Where t^ pumi wm p^nftr. ^Mere tbey kmated;
tfev iJfeved k wikn it MD^rad arvBf^ to B«v Miaiac gv^^ wtw <igy w<te are-
i€jai&Ed by itawnggr ninii^ aad to oaoaC <if tibe kad <w wbiek w laHHi tfana tkey ted
Be iiiiiiM^'i daia tbim tbat al bsviaf & finr ¥«■» ^reviDneiy b<iitcbewd tka 4
ois. WbcA ay calnde caoM? to die Litde Mawwn tfee Ngion ww osiy
r ft acMie «^ aD of ^
dair tilir to k wia qioifie » food aa tbei €l Bflflt
fenc&B tnbea to die lavi tiiey dam; 3rec nobody dnaiifed <^ aarag dat diaae bociiten
ee^id 1^ «o«iitry. fiadi could eraataaiiy bsre knc his owm daa <d l«l» acrae,
and im; mure. The iTwiiaiF abonld be treated in joet oie aoM «sy dac ve tnat the
iriwe aetdea. Gnre eadi hia hide dam.; if. m vooJd f^oemfiy baippen. ke dedaftes
Itei. why. dfeen. let hon. afame dbe £ae of dae thotiHanda of whito hnmiem sad tappets
w^ hftTe liv^ on die game dai: die secd^ment <.^ the cuhd try hag nrTTTwi—triir •j^
fee him. li^ daase vh£a vhe will doc wodc. peni^ h!om xhf* ace af t]b» eatth which
he eamhecE.*'
However ephememi die iadiaos^' dsusMi vo land mfty be whsdi he ocrtzpiea. tlte Gcrr-
imairrtr by a loo^ acdea d treatiea. hm reeognized their rifshc to pwaif iiiirai sad ~
emIimwQndto maeit the iaiaa ia tbe pso^ see ol ^e Isod s& die whxto saa sees it.
Tis. br ioAowiair aericiiltorai and 1
In t^ iiii«t;iJice of die Qagee, die Govecnmeiia at aaa time pm^nded the imna
IndiaA fiunUitm with csttle ^ good Bstrve atock. isttondtiii: to emxarai^ daas in
ecof.'k ndiso^ on tfa.<eir bmad scrvi^ of pasture laod: die md-ueiCry diriv«d. dmr herds
iwTvmed iiasr fold, a dieir land is well ad&pced Sor si^ck aistn^r: the IsdiaLn wae
w*eL pieaeed widi the entgrpnee. a it estaaled very little namal labor. Here at
het wae scaziiethiii^ f^ a pruereatve. compreheoetve oature. raited to the ladian at
whi<:h h? cooJd thrive — raii^a^ h^rda oi caok sad pc4ii«e. About thb time aoiiie
b% T(^2je stockmaa or stocksk^i discovered the vahae of the Oto^ and Kaw pastures
a aA iatetmedi^e diippiiif gsooad and fattenis^ place for their vaac herds in trmomt
to market. It did uot take loo^ Sor them to convince the authootiea dat the Twdw^w
were wasting their fonts land by erazins: and zait«tng ]am herda of wwthlem ponies;
that ther w«e willmg to pay hanosomeiy for the use c^l these pastures for their Texas
gCock. Yhe Ladiaas protested — daimin^ that they valued d^eir herds abo^e the
Texane' guW . that they were not commercialhr inclined— all to no avaH: dieir ^lefidid
psi<tureB were leased for a aeries of years to these wealthy cattie bazoos for 3 cntts per
^(3^ ajxoml rentaL The Texas iteer inoculated the Indians' native stock with &e
Sever tidt, all were gradnaHy exterminated, a victim to officialiBm aad jgrced. f^t
cattlemen fpX the gcas they wanted aod the Indian got ^e few paltry <^b» ^lere^
for that he <^ not want.
Then, a^azxi, the Indians are continually uiged to &nn their broad acxeev xaise whest,
coca, tnznips^ and potatoes. Like st^me c^er Iandk«d2<. he prefers to do tibia t**?rT^]rii
hired help or by leasing. Is the Indian permitted to attend to ieasba ha ovm wS^
MfoCiate the t^ms thereof, receive his pay therefor, and secnre thebenefito of any
■tatakes he might samke in expmence. aU the same as a white, freebom Bna? Not
Oft y.'or Hie: the officioasieas of th^ Indiana' ^reat friend a^p&in interveiMs; all the
io^tng is done by Government agents and subject to the approval of ^e Secsetary
of the Interior. The Secretary sometime accumulated a Uttle vahmbie expeiieace;
the Tri-'i?aff never. As a cvoti^uence oi this espionage the Indian h» Kithixa better
to do t}*^n to attend to his dan<>». ^mrok^K, etc . and in the intertm to blea ha ^raat
beseiftctor, who relieves him of all hi2« -arw and worhmentSL SpasanodicaBT, after
ooie hundred yeazs of pamp^rong in idlenesA<, the Indian Office issues a amxiMto to
the effect that ^'the Indian whL> does not wvrk cant eat." If ^te Indian w«re cmsa>
ble of work under such adverse cixcumstanc«a» he would be supmor to msy kaywn
spedss of mankind.
MMWJuam €r thk wgtTAW kkkapqo natuHK iSSfi
;?iiifi&» ii»iHiBaBva»iB>a9KO»aiifiMi€r^«MC OL&flilbscria'
fii n I iiM ifiiii If nf Arr mnwAiwr ««■ ft-'T^ laft-T TIT nw — IT mmy—nTf inif mhknm
!~in r&sr bu^bep maeatm <i£ JMssCf. T^ flier ^^s&atueaAaaaKmBies g&» ^»^«-^
mmoffQioL d» &4 h«^ almiiA: i]iKfiaaoiaabI)&. JLH rim & &awip««:. (in. befiufi: mat in. c&sr
lUBLfr <&£ flk hieiu^ 'THlfificina ^^ osflHrvsHabn. aooDriiii^ <t»foiit£ Bu«<fv«:. is w&tii&
t^R ?iTfiTHfcnifiMr!mi» mtf jnitioT rrnfirhwig ffSQ iOEL ^^iSC imKC ^fj^^Q^W- 'MU§. fnHTyrfliJ qPM%,
JtJL hiiiissL <?ftifiirRn. I^trsF'if'a. i^isragftf if 4 Mid 2&' -mr foseed oi xstmst ^i»smt mshan^.
^ygnixf. 9ip**7iiiCimifi^i]9, uuiianxLS. rhH^^hum^ s!sMXXH(as>9B*s. Iiuiiu&R9B>». (saaics. •SSC^
CmmM!!;^ •m.^TTmamimiL iBniflCiiiiL. or siiiu!^ miAlygfi mffrmnrgr warps s&eae- ')f:;bi«wiB& miiflC
<wrmiani»> piefipii*^ inm moac *faaei3zic syaunt izL tibHic intarQazBR^ wtc& t&>s>^ pnor ILcde-
bftRniDie- pfwr Qsdi& ^jk^«*» ai tzhe^ viuins. wiabfis. diui **nmh\rr. ,j£ t^ea^ t^^ngamLemi
•«ziinacxi*& JLs ml 'maoMuiit of t^ rxfHBcmesai aiinnrrfeft t^ms^ ^»«r wasB I wiK ^^sDt
wiiar'>ameizuti^m:^p(Ri9niuiIahs!irTaci jbuj ir ig a aur nnfes ir n&g^gHiacBmg b<£C:wgi«L
«axup[uy«ifr jntt aiipiL <Otifi^<^]^iiLt;^mimi^}f !ZLy 'jbix:j £ ^iaiAHf '^^
mirsT^fsiiJkiixiitsr ac^f^&ais!^ 1 !iciin;sf£t^aci&e bp>jh£ btiiiii^sgrv^^^
dif^ mev sonnL w^m iej saS^idit^. £ aiffisfi is&fr auaamL & mufl!: '•acmiaM* limfy Mat fhfirf
np' ?ij ?&& 3Ein»ia^ PntfitCT KbiHiI *ingiii5»»«i Mut a^Hif &rar wky sheBl bp»ai£ wi» b«i«f
HQV "WSPT Iijn^ aui ^iia; fLinaRf^iHm;^ 'A«r«»- wm an nKRif if •H!sm}inEii2ii^ "Wl^r/'
•^1^ juoC * Itijjir ;iil CTiifhin j^surs jw- imi^pis ir «^foiif»iir . win. mt^ if w»»^ ^r^^^ r^ftm. ^»
ftERait i»a&. !iu»7 »2ic « inm'iL " THiis » jhaKluurfy fdi«^ nrruA. Jt Hurflfr Ijir*»r £ ^nmliRft
m s<Sii&:9rnm^:xi '^e asoiMx^'if ^.be-tublJ&'iibac bad^iibAnc&trwi w>>c^^nwr& if Wbntes
<iiL JXL Mut jH&i*ft "iLfr 'hiTitt'wi wbac in <TrmESiiiii?ft; me finifr bny huaamiufi r^it^ ffiF^s rfcic
BC W3» ""prmiH**/ ' & Jx:ci»» srL bcwpr'a: '55ni2a«&!?3«£ irrn bv mevmsg is wa» p«>3M!b«i —
ainxR 'if nhffm w»«^ pr.fflnr7»£;x fnrf* wbac ir «!nirRaiiiu»fL :i£t^mi^ ec bmi b»fip«d tfci IHE
dkR 'Sihift^ mr ^raw v»eka nut' tphs '^nHrjnEfT isr«s>ii]c chr**^ isrojFSJkisBf. I jA WboB
tiGiiKr jmr^iis m •>9r^ isDiuiit fnhimi: iki jiiiTb. nrRflommc if bis- ba&««? IrKf"- piwF KtAn
master fn^mxtH' 'inrr }ittf^nxi3i^ ir. is m. tJiH^ mil's jBBi swifaCffEOs jm£ ai&ft^ csr n befi^ bcaF-
b«>3iF^»r£ bixxL? Yia bKar if lanQiD^ •!aae9a. fii£Ch£afifi bs^ani meiL ai!f9iiii9ili!&'
iwy *iini*i:hin^ if oiern: jx imnpt^nmia wi£& &i» a»fljiiw^-maiL IFbiff k 'Ai* <!35Cf?pTiHtL.
BBWPp7»?r ft-mnigd ^i 'fc ?»«»rxacinii- bi* m !iffliiu»r Fnffr.Hr m. jfewitiiiiL Tai b» oahf^
flKi tifhaC macsias. ia »rin»»i?T jnii •3nrbfriiiu»aR. iteidiffl^ is bfr d:v65aei€ ia <fe-»nw»fin«fls
Hi <iiicj". 01 nuiiijfflsrr. ami ^r.moASTM.w^'^": a»'-biipy*Hni«ina. ffis fflfe <if <ii6iCiKf£ aSiesesr is
uni: ivsojixxerfi tn jniwL Slie» 3r*»a&ijE; b#if?ii Ds^sng; ir«iras5KnaiiDrfj-»fliii^wbiHkj
JB& <^riizu>s 1H1 ofM. ucacRfthie "*i iuj ii'.»ir- Iz s ^JsjaaStr j*!r.f*pm<t js & randBiL 411 tiig-
is dift wiiinc waisi if :;iii* «ji^»mmtmc -vbi: iii« loisinu^ & snacs^oaf if ^fitn^aCBTfL iic
t&jR- <5rrJ»»r!iniMrc--!ritutiU'!i*tt «*iii.r.ifi. Zz is ia*. :ii;nii'.«*:khi7 iniK' ^iiaxi tfcsR- '?feiiiirf»iL
ttf&U!aSk^t -IT "iiHr bmiiift .f !biir".ii icsanizam.ns ir«* :Hrr,.*r '3»*iiar7'*ft «!ici:2hii» nut nm'Tum^
mtvBt iHwaii mi*nin#»i5 :t "im "ir-Ii**. T!ii* au.sr nl T;imii aunHGMiTiirT aitm, biiw»*'7**r^
is M '!nmt3U'.T: iikj «'iiii«;ii* laii mt. -ie '*hi]itr*HL jcai*iiii .is iii ".ai* ▼!iir«* ■'hiliir'Hi. £
jbinfrdntf^rtui ic»*a ai'.n 'ntniLuii^ iTLtii''^ j*X!*pr^l iiiH& if ■*n n f^mm mi*nr jiut «2.'Tniia5fc-
QBUi. biiE ir !U*''3reT'uU»iF5» irrwit 'iu* "i»»sn !?»aiilra.
JLa. lilt iTuhan imis v.iit 3ii*. " '^•* lii ii\z vmc ai Itt^ wteL t:&e wbioe- mim: bis i^ay*
SDR- ant nirs: tp» vine *: in 'j*n: lii .at*. * IT-iuc i» '±* milk bt tiSs- <Tflf5MKiiic — s^ ▼bul*
jbirj. Tbe fmi-nn :» oru* *: iimnfiir 111I7 Vii»n b& is ja Fittitm imt Jiirj- ikg- nifr 5*
m aAJC •«iitnw»<t Tvrnii x ttrrngr ^r mmcutii iir (ifimmigBnia^iBiZL: sut wa!& be. bis bunr-
Amt "iv^sBa if Deanin^ ul Crude ^^mniuei' 1 jrm. imiaM, wbtiil7~ iiusraai!n;.n:*»^ iinn. Tbs-
fCTBS mr nbe ouRaMin iRpii.Eanuft '.niuiinii'iiL ir isie riif:8m. ic ««mj ai rm*. if drat oi
iiirvnini' bun. Emm bis jTmiI j:«uta. ituiHe wbtiae uberices. pnraiTgs. imi bmiaiiinss
bff9% bmiiimn m iiH ;:rT»s«ic iiit*!i-^iai:ii* !!;nitit:iiTiL i21»l m*;ii^ die rittian ^Jtfics
mut ^cv^ taie naiiimL isie ^smu^ .DOt'.rfrimines uw.r'j^i jilt -.tb^ ^maen. ir ^^e Cim^t
iHaiMs bniit bis bniiii»ffli*a«t jiiuli*iiiu:u* uui T.in iim Ii'<*ifle. T^, in** nni 11s •*iimBt
ftsKfikuxL b«w«*^»^. X » liiHT, 12 ir.»Ly •*«i«iniiiL fii jh»iiiflji dus riinim vjtfii'**. L^n dumi
flBf!fiL*7% duar iiiCtuxA mnniriBa ic die jumis if die rs^smirr hvaaieoxuBiSL xiibe js ii;;tier
BsnaiimffiDs ir^ naut. < rbn» die LiitTnii ;;be ir-nffliterrnnna ixiit lopiicciiixirf ic lieasc
: MTsmi "aie I>ut7»tn ' Vmiui lthh. it .T^»*tie imi die InitiaiL 'Tinai*iL vdi be
. beffia- «^a]is»mx3»i mul irll 3i£bD» 1. -seciiff nut mine iBfirii Titiinau wneie dnoBBj-
. wat%,mssm'iiaaL jouaiit wniipamtn. be bis ^nr^us^
2808 AFFAIBS OF THE MEZIOAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
Give an Indian the chance and privileges of a white man, and if he is not quite so
prosperous in worldly goods, he wul at least be quite as happy and contented. His
conaition can not become worse. Any change therefore would be for the better.
Practically all the glowing reports on file with the Departments showing progress
made by the Indians are predicated on what the mixea bloods have accomplished
and are doing; and as I said before should have no bearing whatever in considering
the Indian problem. The question is naturally a broad one; its many ramifications
would make a large volume.
Summed up, their constant cry to the Government throughout the ages was and
is now, ''We are di£ferent from you; our likes are not your lixes, nor our tastes your
tastes; our customs are not your customs nor our aims your aims; our God to resemble
UB must be red: leave us alone, leave us in peace. '<
Very truly, yours,
0. A. MrrscHBR.
ExHiBrr No. 176.
State of Coahuila,
MuzquiZf Mexico^ June S7 1906,
Hon. H. M. Tblleb.
Dear Senator: I pencil you these lines by candlelight in a Mexican prison, and
to-day I have witnessed the last and most disgraceful cliapter in Indian nistory. I
am held in prison at the instance of two American oflUcc'rs, while their confidants rob
the Indians.
It's the old Dickson investigation being continued as to the legality of the seven
Kickapoo transfers. It's a fake and an excuse for my arrest.
When I telegraphed you and Senator Clapp neither of you probably thought the
Department of the Interior would go to this extreme to defeat the object of tne law.
The friends of Thackery were overheard to say that they would put up $10,000 to
bribe the Mexican authorities to hold me on some charge until the Kickapoos could be
forced into line. John Mine and most of the tribe refuse to have anything to do with
the land sharks, but they have strained their credit to the limit, and hunger would
soon throw the weaker ones into their clutches.
There is a Hitchcock warrant for me on tht other side of the river, so I can not go
over there. The consular officers are prohibited from taking Kickapoo acknowledg-
ments for me and they will render me no aid, so you see I am in a sad predicament
and will be fortunate to get out of here alive.
I could control all the Indians as against the public, but when these American
officers come, backed up by the United States Government, telling everyone that
I am a robber it disgraces me in the estimation of everyone.
With the Indian Department it seems to be rule or ruin, and at least 30 Kickapoos
have gone down.
The great Government of the United States, through its agents, taking the last foot
of land upon earth rather than see them succeed here.
Most respectfully, M. J. Bentley.
Exhibit No. 177.
KiNGKiHUKR, Okla., Novembcr ff, 1907.
Mr. Walter S. Field,
Room 620 J Colorado Building,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Friend: I received your letter about two weeks ago.
Well, friend, there are more than half of our Cheyenne people that don't want to
stay here to live. You know the C'heyennes are all northern Indians and they never
like it here. Just now the C'antonnjent and Red Moon Cheyennes want to leave thin
country some way that they can make it.
I want to tell you that the majority of Cheyennes will sell out and K«t out of here if
you can open a way for them to do so. 1 would like to have you arrange it some wav
so some ol the Cheyennes can go with you to look at the country, and if they like ft
they will sure all want to move. Everybody will be in favor of it.
There are only a few schoolboys that can get along hero among the white people,
but most of the older Indians will never be equal with whites. It is a great mistake
to try to make us like white people in a day. But my people can not do a thing,
MS the agent will not listen to our wishes, and, besides, the Washington people seem
to wmnt to puMh thiogf too fast.
AFFAIBS OF THB MBXICAK KIOKAPOO INDIANS. 2809
Well, no need for me to tell vou more about us, because you have been here and
seen for yourself that our x>eople are poor and that the Grovemment does not recog-
nize our chiefs any more. Just now the Indians are poorer than liiey were before
the country opened for settlement.
I thank vou for all the information you send to me, and now is the time for my
X>eople to depend on you to fight for tnem.
It seems tnat every Indian who has sold land is poorer than before he sold. I
just like to hear the Commissioner who makes the laws for us was here to see for him-
self.
We want to know if you will help us out if some of our chiefs come to Washington,
paying their own expenses, or how can they go there now. All Indians are well.
Write to me as soon as you get this letter.
Your friend, Bxtll Bbab.
Sora.^Ezhibits numbered from 178 to 190, both inclusive, will be found in
me II of the testimony.)
IJSTDEX.
▲lw«n.te« Shawnees 2036
Contract with Field, W. S 2036
Deeds of 1367
Patents issued to 1613
Report on, as to allotments to 1761
▲eknowledgment of deeds. (See Deeds.)
▲ot of February 8. 1887, referred to 14
▲ot of March 8, 1905, amendment to repeal 27
Aet of June 21, 1906, referred to 9,13,14,16,419
Adama^ O. W., affidavit of 2068
AdamSyJoeM. (iSee Telegrams) 1445,1446,1448^1440
AHUiated Tribes:
History of 1908
Agreement as to Mexico , 1912,1913
Treaty of , with Texas 1900
AMnty Hozqniz. Mexico, telegram to 1430
A£-eha-ehe: Affidavits of 84,42
Checks foiged 486,506,507,541,642,736
Deeds of 641 to 658, 1164^ 1208
Power of attorney to Border National Bank 584
Refusal to siffn deeds 427, 735, 736
Testimony of. 733-737
Ali-che-ko, suits filed by 1838-1840
Ah-ke-na-ma-tho, testimony of 871, 872
Ah-ke-Ha-xna-tho-quah, deed of 641
Ah-kis-kock :
Affidavit of 43,2149
Deeds of 642,650-653
Did not sign deeds 764
Testimony (^ 760-767
Lease to Ida B. Bentley 1479
Ah-nah-no-tha (minor):
Deed of 664
Affidavit as to age of 466
Did 8i«n deed 427
Ab-nak-taa-liah-Q uali :
Affidavits of 2144,2215,2219
Checks foiged 486,506,546,863
Deeds of 642,649,1154
Refusal to sign deeds 426,427,863
Suits filed a^inst 1838-1840
Testimony of 862, 863
Ah-ziali-aha^wa^to. {See Tom Smith.)
Ah-na-ska-wah, suits filed against 1838-1840
Ali-nes-she-ne-ne :
Deeds (rf 642,644,1245
Did sign deed 426, 1002
Suits filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 1000-1006
A]i-2M-«ho-peah :
Conteet of allotment of 1136-1138
Oonceniing death of Vl^
A]^«a-noo-o-ae et al., affidavits of *iM^V*i55*Ss.
A]Mair-irab-«s#-qiiali, affidavit of "^^^^^
n nrDXXs
Ah-ten-y-tuek: P^fe-
Affidavit of 2147
Deedflof 643,655,1246
Did Bign deedfl 426,1050
Suite Sled by 183^1840
Testimony of 1049-1056
Ah-waw-ne (see Ke-te-quah) :
Deed of ,.. 640.645
Referred to 1157
Alexander, Tony (w<j Telegrama) 1148, 1435-1437, 1444, 1448
Agent of Grimes 1301
Contract of employment by Benson 1153
Alfordy Nellie (Absentee Shawnee), patents issued to 1613
Alford. Thomas W.:
Affidavits of 2025,2073,2236
Letter to, regarding Spye buck's land 1355
Alien, Geo.:
Affidavit of 2105
Testimony of 263-270
AHen, J. P., probate judge, proceedings 2091
AUotments. (See Kickapoos.)
AUottees. (See Kickapoos.)
Amendment, Senate, No. 136 26, 1630
Amendment to repeal act of 1905 1883
Anderson, Hdmer, affidavit of 2147
Anderson. T. J., letter from M. J. Bentley 1565
Andres, nancisco De P., Rev 1496,1497,2245
Andrews, W. W., deeds 644, 653, 1157
Appeal to Secretary of the Interior from decision of Commissioner of
Indian Affairs 2122
Arrests and imprisonments. (See Ida B. Hcntley, M. J. Bentley, and
Indians.)
Asher, W. B., affidavit of 1834
Ast, Nikalous, and wife:
I)eeds 646
Suits filed against i838-1849
Aydelotte, J. fi., character of Bentley 1835
Baoon, Bobert A., Actine Secretary of State (see Letters and telegran^s) 83
Bailey, H.»0., character of Bentley 1833
Bailey, Lee, testimony of 1117-1121
Bank checks 478-191,502-510,576-588,965
Bank deposits 9,10,478^91,502-510,576-588,965
Banks. ySee names of banks.)
Beatty, D. M. (see also Letters):
Report of 2160
Report mentioned 1412
Beede, Gyrus:
Report of 2039
Report of quoted 1623, 1637, 1638. 1691
Testimony of 250-261
Benson. 0. J. (see also "Clmpman-Grimcs-ronine people," report) 3-13
Aflidavitsof 1419,2083
Agreement with Brown, Chapman, and ririmes 1139-1141,
1146, 1164, 1195, 1196, 1213, 1222, 1288
Amended petition in suit against 1731
Checks forged 1150
Conine employed by, as interpreter 1144
Conspiracy to arrest Hentley 1668
Contract with Alexander, 1 ony 1 153
Deeds and mortgages to 45, 4(1, 47. (iJl G47, 049 057, 1142, 1147, 1151-1156
Deeds forged 1142, 1147
Deed from dead woman 1142, 1151, 1152
Deed from imbecile 1143, 1153
Deeds from minon 1142, 1154
INDEX. ni
B«iDSOBy C. J.— Continued. Page-
Deeds, consideration for 1143, 1146
Deeds, value of property conveyed 1149, 1150
Deeds^ refusal of Indians to draw money from bank for 1145
Depositions, payment for 1148
Employment of Alexander 1153
Fair-OTound tract 1577-1579
First national Bank (Eagle Pass), transactions with 1149
Notice from Bentley regarding land deal 1557
Order for payment for Indian* land 1557
Patents delivered to 1586-1588
Perjury by interpreter 1147
Suits filed by 1838-1840
Telegrams to and from {see also Telegrams) 1145,
1148, 1430, 1435, 1436, 1444, 1445, 1448
Testimony of 1139-1164,1577-1579
Value of lands purchased from Indians 1149, 1150
Bentley, Ida B., Mrs. {see also "Bentley People," report; Telegrams; Ex-
hibits) 3-14
Agreement of trust 609, 1397, 1511
Arrest of, in Mexico 533,561,1506,1507,1608,1513
Character of Indians 1518
Claims no interest in lands 1511-1517
Coercion of Indians 1510
Deeds and leases. . 642, 645, 646, 649-651, 653, 656, 1479, 1511, 1512, 1514, 2232, 2233
Deeds, consideration for 1511, 1512, 1514
Desire of Indians to reside in Mexico 1512
At Indian camp 1507, 1517
Conduct of Conine and others 1507
Property owned personally by 1515,1516
Lease from Ah-kis-kuck 1479
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Teleeram 1429
Testimony of 1505-1519
Will of 689,1511
Bentlev, M. J. {see also "Bentley People," report; Letters; Telegrams; Ex-
hibits) 3-14
Acquittal of,, by Mexican court 2179
Affidavit of 2043,2086
Affidavit of, in land contest 1703, 1770
Allotments, connection with 1655-1842
Answers of, before Mexican courts ; 2220
Apointment of, as attomev for Kickapoos 68
Appointment of, as special Indian agent 248, 1620, 1621
Appointment of, as guardian of Nah-ah-che .• 2091
Arrest and imprisonment, Mexico 19, 20. 55, 10] , 102, 103, 314, 318,
322, 325, 326, 349, 383, 1227, 1402, 1413, 1487, 1506, 1513, 1541, 1632,
1633, 1637, 1638, 1664, 1715, 1720, 1749, 1750, 1782, 1783, 1784, 2169
Bank deposits 605 , 682-689
Bribery Mexican judge, denial of 1669,1670
Cade, C. M., relations with 1666,1667
Character of 448, 476, 515, 1364, 1365, 1624, 1625, 1833-1836, 1965
Charges against, in Mexico 2169
Clarke, Joe, in re testimony of 1685,1680
Claims no title under act of 1906 (report) .* 10,1657,1799
Check to Ne-con-o-pit 399
Check for collection of accounts from Indians 1381
Commissions for collecting Indian accounts 1381,
1386-1389, 1523, 1524, 1532, 1709-1711, 1714
Connection, affairs Kickapoos 1618
Conspiracy charge against 401
Conspiracy of Benson et al. to arrest 1668
Contract with Hampton to secure allotment 1161, 1704
Contract with Wm. Davis 1162, 1703
Contract with Samuel Patrick 1164-1167
Criticism of Indian Office 1620,1643
Criticism by subcommittee (report) VV^VL
27813— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 8 2ft
IT INDEX.
Bentley, X. J.— Continued. Page.
Court proceedings against, quoted 1636-1639
Deed to 649
Efforts to secure land for Indians, Mexico 2200
Erroneous allotments, cancellation of (report) 12
Financial responsibility of 1784-1786
General fund, Indian 12,1674-1678,1705,1706
Guardian suits filed by 2092
Homestead of 1570,1672
Immigration agent M. K. A T 1533
Indian funds handled by T 2295
Indians, furnished no intoxicants 1665
Indian Office, trouble with 1625
Land contest 1770
Lease as guardian of Nah-ah-che 2090
Letters. (See Letters.)
Money borrowed from Indians 12, 1674-1677
Mills, Manuel, trouble with 1173, 1174, 1653, 1670, 1671
Order from Benson to jpay for land 1577
Partnership with Joe Clark 1525, 1531
payment to, for getting deeds signed 1382
Penetho, Mary, suit of, against 2239
Penetho. Mary, note of, to 2240
Power of attorney to Joe Clark 1557
Proceeds of sale of lands turned over to 12, 1390, 1460, 1461, 1463
Purchase of land. Mexico 1737
Receipts to and from Indians 606,607,635,1694
Report of, as to Absentee Shawnee allottees 1694, 1761, 2037, 2041
Report of, as to Kickapoos 1644, 2043
Report of, to Oglesby, John T., special United States Indian agent 2088
Report of, to C. F. Nesler, inspector 2086
Roll of Indians in Mexico 192,225,288,314,1663
Seven allotments (act 1905), connection with 1642-1655
Suits filed against 1609, 1610, 1675, 1684, 1707-1709, 1735, 1805-1807
Suit, amenoed petition in, against Benson etal 1731
Telegrams {see Telegrams) 26, 27,
38, 39, 209, 1418, 1429, 1430, 1437, 1438, 1445-1447, 1630
Testimony and statements of 15-54,
389-398, 471, 510, 658-662, 689, 690, 888, 889, 1582,
1617-1843, 1883, 1928-1937, 1939-1947, 1950, 1983-1987
Trust agreement with Indians and Ives 582,
583, 584, 1389-1391, 1397, 1465, 1466, 1480, 1657, 1799
We-ah-che, note to. .' 1674
"Bentley People," Consisting of M. J. Bentley, Ida B. Bentley, and W. W.
Ives (see report) 3, 9
Claim no title to land : 10
Conduct of 11
Deeds taken by, for protection of Indians 11
Deeds, manner of execution of 9
Induced Indians to go to Mexico 10,12,1646,1647
Benton. N. (H.) (see telegrams) 1449, 1450
Explanation telegrams by Graham, Geo. F 1370, 1371, 1522
Berry, James E 1763
Bevezidge, Benjamin F., affidavit of 1895
Bibolet, B. H., testimony of ♦ 571-575
Big Jim (Absentee Shawnee band) 2036
Affidavit of 2065
Contract with Field, W. S 2036
Report on, by Bentley 1694
Bflley, Joseph, affidavits of 2030,2243
Blocker, John B. (Pedro Blanco ranch) 451, 473, 476, 588, 1628-1530, 1727
Boehr, Charles J., character of Bentley 1835
Bonnet, Jessie A., suits filed against 1838-1840
Bonnet, John A., vice-consul (see also Letters; Telegrams; Exhibits):
Telemms 25,1430,1431
Testmiony of 74-83
UTDBZ. T
Bonnet, W. A. (Me olffo Letters; Telegranu; Exhibits) 151,2151
Deeds 655
DeedS; acknowledgment of 623, 686
Deposits by Bentley, memorandum of 605-607, 682-689
Lease money 576-581
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1438
Testunonyof... 575-588,605-626,635-637,682-689
Border National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex. .188, 385, 449,^571, 575-588, 605, 679, 682-689
Power of attorney from certain Indians 584, 1389
Bradley, N. (W.) L.:
Affidavit of 2103
Deed of 653
Brady, Katy (Absentee Shawnee), patents issued to 1613
Brady, Naxmie (Absentee Shawnee), patents issued to 1613
Brosius, 8. M., agent Indian Rights Association {8ee also Letters; Exhibits):
Report of 2019-2036
. Report of, quoted 1622.1623,1814
Brown, A. T. , («e€ also * ' Grimes-Chapman-Conine people, * * report) 3-13
A^^ieement with Benson, Chapman, and Grimes 1195, 1196, 1213, 1222
Cipher dispatches (see also Telegrams) 1224-1232
Cipher dispatches, explanation of 1236
Conduct of , in Mexico 1169,1484-1488,1507,1534-1559
Deeds 652,654,655,1242
Guajardo, proceedings before 282, 1229
Indian camp at : 1225
ManriMe of minors 1225,1226
Suits filed by and against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1417,
1418, 1421, 1422, 1424, 1426, 1427, 1430-1433, 1435, 1436, 1444, 1446-1449
Testimony of 1221-1242
Brown, O.J. (««e afoo Telegrams) 1435
Brown, H. P. (see also Telegrams) 1427
Deeds 655
Brown, B. 0. (see also Telegrams) 1448
Brown A Chapman (see also Telegrams) 1436, 1446. 1447
Deeds 655
Bryan, L. B., lease.. ^ 654
Business Oommittee, Shawnees 2036
Oade, 0. M. (see aUo " Chapman-Grimes-Conine people' ' report) 3-13
Affidavit of 2081
Agreements with Johnston, Johnson, and Grimes 1244, 1274, 1287
Bentley, character of 1836
Bentley, relations with 1666, 1667
Checks, forged 1245
Deeds 643,652
Deeds, order on, for payment of 1576
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 1242-1254
Value of Indian lands bought 1245-1249
Oam-kah-tho, deeds of 651, 652
Canadian Valley Trust Company 1708
Canalio, Elkana (Absentee Shawnee), patent issued to 1613
Cardenas, Higruel, governor (see Telegrams) 1^19-1423, 1425, 1429, 1433
Castellanos, Enrique C 625, 1420, 1421
Oastillion, Salvadore O. , opinion, San Francisco ranch 582
Cha-cha-ko-the-wa, deed of 643,1156
Cha-ke-she:
Affidavits of 34,42
Deed of 641
Deeds forged.V.V.V.V.'.V.'. '. .' .* ! .* ." .' .* .* .* .' .' .' ." .' ! .' ! ! .' .* .' .* ! .' ." '. '. '. .* ! ! *485,*486,"565,*546, 823
Deeds, refusal to sign 426, 427, 823
Deposit, Border National Dank 605
Testimony of '^aXr^i^
TI IKDBX.
OKapmaTi, W. L. (see dko Td^rams; '' Ohapman-Grimes-Conine people") 3, 13
Account with FiretNationalBank, Eagle Pass, Tex 604
Agreement, Benson, Brown, and Grimes 1195, 1196, 1222
A^;reement, Benson, Brown, and Grimes, secret 1163
Cipher dispatches {see <ilso Telegrams) 1206
Checks to Indians 1207,1209,1210-1212,1220
Conduct of, in Mexico 1169
Deeds to 46, 46, 138, 139, 641-657, 1156-1158, 1204, 1206, 1213-1215
Deeds, expense of procuriitg 1198,1199
Deeds, value of lands deeded 1205
Depositions, procuring of 1201-1203
Guajardo, transactions before 294,1207,1214,1215
Suits filed by and against 1838-1840
Telegramfl 481,1145,
1148, 1421, 1422, 1424, 1427, 1430-1433, 1435, 1442-1444, 1446-1448
Testimony of .' 1194-1221
Ohapman & Brown (see also Telegrams):
Account with First National Bank, Eagle Pass 604.
Deeds 652
^'Ohapxnan-Orinies-Conine people" (see also Report) 3-13
Brutal conduct of 4, 5, 11
Assisted by United States officials 7
Alleged bribery of Mexican officials 9
Foigery, bribery, perj ury , subornation of perjury 6, 13
Referred to as ''wolves" 8
Use of Mexican policemen 8, 9
COiaw-ko-sot 420,427
Affidavit of 2146
• Deed of 643,1242,1252
Oheck to Ne-con-o-pit 399
COieck to M. J. Bentley 1381
CaieckB to Indians 1207,1210-1212,1220
CaieckB, forged 5,12,478-491,502-510,965,1677,1678,1689
Checks witnessed in blank 5, 506
COiecks cashed by impersonators 5, 431, 435, 508-510, 629, 630, 637, 638, 731, 1144
Oherokee Commissioners, referred to 85, 88, 89
Cherokee war, history of 1905
Cherry. Lorena, deed • 643
Chief clerk Shawnee Ag^ency, letter to, in re Spyebuck 1355
Choctaw Bailroad, right of way 1692
Chuck-a-skin-ah-a, deed of ^ 644
Cigar (or Si-ka-way) (Absentee Shawnee), patent issued to 1613
Cipher dispatches (see also Telegrams) 1206, 1224-1234
Clapp, M. E., Senator (see also Letters; Telegrams) 1418
Clark, Josepn (see also Letters; Telegrams; Exhibits):
Affidavits of 39,40,1685,1786,2081
Power of attorney from Bentley 1557
Letters to and from Bentley 1559-1565
Testimony of Bentley concerning Clark 1685, 1686
Relations of Bentley with 1531
Partnership with Bentley 1525
Immigration agent 1533
Reference to Blocker ranch 1528-1530
Collection of Indian accounts 1532
Conduct of Indians in Mexico 1528,1534-1537
Conduct of Grimes et al 1528, 1534-1559
Deeds to Indians and Ives 1555
Depositions, taking of 1546-1549
Explanation of telegrams 1545
Guajardo, conduct of 1543,1544,1547,1548
Heirs to allotments 1555, 1556
Lease money. 1547
Order from Benson to pay for land 1557
San Francisco ranch 1531
Telefl^ams 1423.1424,1437
Teetunonyof 1525 1565, 1570-1572
TeBtim<my of as to bribery, Mexican officials 1535, 1536
iNDBx. vn
Oleazyi Thomas: Pact*
Conteat of aUotment. 1131
Tertdmonyof...., 1131-1134
Ooerdon of IndiaxiB 5,13,1638,1639,1683
Ck)chrue,B.W., letter of.. 2105
Goxnzniasioner of Indian Affairs. (See Letters; Telegrams; Exhibits.)
Conine, Carmen (<€e abo Telegrams) 1419,1423,1431,1433,1434
Deeds 643,652-654
Conine, B.C. (see aUo ' ' Ghapman-Grimes-Conine People' ' report) 3-13
Affidavit of 466
Agreement with Grimee, Garrett & Jacobs 1267, 1268, 1289
Checki in escrow 481,483
Checks forged, indorser on 484-491
CheckQ forged, testimony concerning 541-547
Conduct oC in Mexico 1169,1484-1488,1507,1534-1559
Deeds to 643,652-654,1148
Deed horn dead woman, testimony concerning 524, 747, 774
Deposit slip from Kah-kah-to-the-qnah 483
Depositions, $500 required to secure 1447
Instructed to follow depositions 1303
Interpreter, employment as 314, 399,
400, 521, 522, 1124, 1144, 1151, 1196, 1202, 1209, 1223, 1271, 1289, 1484, 1550
Interpreter, pay as 400
Receipt for money in bank .• 484
Represented as agent for Indians 481,674,850,904,926
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1148, 1418, 142^1429, 1431-1436, 1442, 1444-1450
Testononyof 520-570
ConkUn, Oximm A Co., dieck to Bentley 1381
Consent to marriage (forged^ 470
Consular report, treatment Mexicans Indians 21-26
Contract of em^oyment between Alexander and Benson 1153
Cooley, L. B., affidavit of 2076
Coon, Lucy, in account with Geo. F. Graham 1520
Coon, Bufus, aUotment of 1586
Cortes, Pedro Z., testimony of 7 626-629
Court cases v. various persons 1838-1840
*' Coyotes " or "wolves " (Indians* name for "Chapman-Grimes-Conine Peo-
ple") 41,81,618,780,793,817,830,1090
Crasson, C. C, assistant United States attorney, San Antonio, Tex 6, 7,
419,438,449,511,571
Crisney, J. C, testunonv of 1387,1388
Cruse, J. T., notice of aUotment purchase 1817
Cap-pa^whe, Lee:
Deed 641
Letter and bank notice 912
Curry, James F., affidavit of 2102
Curry, James N., affidavit of 2104
Curtis, Charles, Senator (member subcommittee), present at hearing of Com-
mittee on Indian Affairs 68,92,94
D.
Daily OUalioman, article in 2007
Daniels, Joseph W., testimony of 202-205, 247-250, 270, 271
Davis, ICss Claude, in re matter of allotment 1569, 1690, 1703, 1704, 1861, 1879
Davis,Wi]liam, in re matter of allotment ; 1162, 1703
Dead Indian, Deed of (Pan-o-tho) 19, 1142, 1150-1152, 1204, 1230, 1231
Dean, C. B 653
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Dean, W. C:
Morses to 642,644,645,647,650,653,654,1154,1155
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Debauchery of Indians 6,13,16,29-32,133,1639,1667,1844,1845
Deed to San Francisco ranch 2162
Vm INDEX.
Deeds: ^•«*-
Acknowledgment of 6, 295, 495^501, 623, 675-681, 68^-689, 1129
Conaideration for 7, 8, 9, 301, 641-658, 1143, 1146, 1263, 1264, 1268, 1270-1272,
127^1285, 1307, 1312-1317, 1333, 1392, 1479, 1511, 1512, 1514
Double 641,658
Fraudulent 4,20,43-48,138,139,147,148,
286, 294, 426-433, 735, 736, 743, 759, 764, 775, 780, 797, 805, 808, 811, 817,
820, 861, 863, 864, 868, 917, 932, 953, 962, 999, 1012, 1020, 1021, 1142, 1147,
1154, 1230, 1231, 1242, 1263, 1264, 1296-1341, 1343-1349, 1510, 1658, 1717
From minors {see also Marriage of minors) 4, 465,
466, S9-471, 498, 499, 1142, 1154, 1242, 1296-1341, 1677-1681
And mortgages of KicEapoo allotments 3(X), 641-658,
1128, 1154-1156, 1213-1216, 1245-1247. 1257, 1263,
1264, 1268, 1270-1272, 1343-1349, 1367, 1389, 1395,
1467-1474, 1479, 1480, 1511, 1512, 1514, 1680-1682,
1714. 1733-1735, 1866-1875, 2169, 2225-2234
Consideration and appraised value of 641-658
Signed by Indians 426,
427, 757, 1002, 1008, 1029, 1050, 1060, 1188, 1204, 1209, 1231, 1238, 1714
Indians* refusal to sign 4, 19, 43-48, 138,147,
148, 286, 294, 314, 426-433, 735, 736, 743, 759, 764, 775, 780, 797,
805, 808, 811, 817, 820, 861, 863, 864, 868, 917, 932, 953, 962, 999,
1012, 1020, 1021, 1188, 1205, 1209, 1231, 1238, 1545, 1655, 1748
Money used to secure 5, 425, 434, 468, 762, 981, 985, 1071
Taken at Eagle Pass 421,
424, 426-430, 495-501, 877, 982, 1004, 1007, 1026, 1050, 1064, 1718
Taken at Guajardo's bouse (Muzquiz) 422, 425
427-430, 432, 433, 441, 444, 569, 695, 725, 727, 735, 738, 746, 747, 755,
756, 759, 762-764, 772, 796-800, 804, 807, 809, 816, 820, 823, 825, 861,
862, 864, 866, 868, 904, 915, 916, 923, 956, 964, 966, 967, 977, 999, 1012
Taken before passage of act of June 21, 1906 10, 500, 501, 654, 982
Underact 1905 10
Deer, Jim. (See Kish-kin-ne-quote.)
Deer, Bobert, aflTidavit of 2066
Deming^ Investment Company:
Deeds to 646,650
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Depositions:
Taking of 1201-1203,1546,1549
Money paid to secure 1148, 1303, 1447
Deposits in banks 483,682-690,1367
Diaz, President of Mexico, regarding Kickapoos 1714
Dickens, Walter F., clerk Shawnee Agency:
Contract and deed for Spyebuck land 1349-1360
Testimony of 1349-1360
Dickson, Charles H., Supervisor to Commissioner of Indian Affairs:
At Indian camp 2202
Petition of, to Monclova court 2210
Proceedings before Mexican court 2204
Report of 2182-2249
Report quoted 1569,1660,1690,1691,1703,1705,1841
Dickson, James H., reference to 1690, 1691, 1705
Dix, W. P., et al., lease 247, 250
Doiiglas, Ariz., testimony taken at 690-913
Douglas, Effle (We-sko-peth-oque) :
Deeds 653,1257,1270,1271
Deeds signed by 1060
Suits filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 1056-1067
Douglas, H. T.:
Power of attorney to, from Ives 1392
Testimony of 1366-1 368
Douglas, W. C. (see also Telegrams) 38,1430
Affidavits of 37,38
Acknowledgment of deeds 676-682
Testimony of 54-71,150,151,657-682
Dow^B. W 1991
ECfflcfeeiifio 2L X $, H. 2r-32L M «». MS,
i::^. ir», 1^7. fL>. 2>L c^ -fi». -ifri, 51X ai:4. 5Mr^
rCLTT^^rS^. itiH. *I5.. «33vS». ML *4a. «:S. *77 «siv3tn- 5cn. irUkM&,
♦C?.>d.J|i5&, !Kr»'L3»5«v3Qe'. It5«>L Ii»2. ia«5. WT. ysm. I*LL Bfrl*,
iftjs, ms. nmk. J&m, j&n^ MSk li!». hm, lu:. um^un. ri^-,
11*1, IBS. iiJ«v 1514. isr, i£:sk i^*. i::5«. i±-cr. ii-».. i^:%. L»r,
]3fi<. 121MI. X2II. L13C. I^£L £Jlffl>. IX». tfijf)-. 1411.. I4il4-I^{;^. I^ft^
liaS^I^tf^ Ifl»^ Id3d, ia»^ I^tf. MS*. itf5^l!iHr. 1^:^, liS^^
Tcx^ fi«B9Cmii5iLT at
V ikMCrmiiity -if 2r^29tL .lS¥r-®»
fdf *c:,iiaL««^r.i3»
iwamwB Iia»-I*»
If. F^ ai;ciefr •'^ aiQtjt2iii»!£ piirr^siBeii IgET
J. adl»i*Tis '>^ 3H9
»r A- I.-, 5<»fe«!aei 1434
Offiof ' «f «C» Ttfo^rar-^ 1 MBt
F .ofiawi ifl. ^Tfli^ni'.!^ KSflr-lTSS
■■^IK'ftawic fli -..--
Imtid^se, MS
Mwliftfww. UC, 29
Mt^J.Fr
Thv^ CO
SifB^ iBi^ aiar'itfr '.^^'''I''"I^I-I'I"IllIllII]]]III-lIiris»-lMi
F- *K «^ T*lt*^Eana*, :
'^sfflmnirTflC. 136^3)2, 356-222: S^SfT, 3»
T-fcaEsan» 2& .UK 3»i I-CMk I4ffr. Mli
r^t««0siiAii7«i. -ftidi 4::§i iii3'4Sr
^■TAai^eikyni:!! «^€ •^rr Ci»«-iT» aCi^czxLigLQi ITHi. liS§
buttitr^ 4.eL*M.«a.<!^.*CK<i5L«aiL*at 1*721225*
Lax«r'iA Id. B-Mi-iW 1743.
Siscai fili»<i iekouc . .' LS2»-I34i
T*«Hmm-T''T Li5d«-iS!r3
yTh:'&<Ta I V- :?2^ »» in fisn ^&tiii»»- cf t>!s?nnu:ay; Ei&ifccSi 33 to- ITT
«*(- izL tihrcri ?>jliiuii«. ;ipp«^itix: FTh-lsiJa 17^ &: KM- jm-'oo. secciBd Tnatnnw of
Soc 1, 'Bifa-'-J^, B>p*iFt '^f AsLfiroaBL ecnmL Cnsi&Ki F^cfecBa Don;
lm**rj*xag a. 3f*^cjm 21
2L Bimzif^y S>tLttSi:r I« F:QifflC&( to Sca6» Dkcpor^iugic. m. se iriz&-
•izsvintr prr7t>e<» Tiii«-irf*«y aekscvtcf^BBiiisasi fea^rt- Umscd
5cACi»* 'ir.nsitl as Tmsm. * 21
3^ • B^uui^. T'H»>s!aaxft. RcszlKy to MsnJbos <3l GsngpgBi neka^f
to-if*i«a5 ■'jfta*'^ pcTTMiKa 'if c&i»- ^aew 1 2i
Ois^i^'f uiZi»rfia<cB^« sid <^£UBaf3ar <2f pcBSOis wfe w«9Pe- iirii&
ttrm JJ
Ain u^Zi^ W. A. B'-iuft^s to- Saunor T«0ffir r^kdrz« to «r!7:w- i
lasui SQii V3£flr 't^auMjg. aoi^ frnf.p-w^ <3f BiBudie^ widL Iiffianif 2fr
Ala: I»*cu»rferra. B-mdiffy 2*
II 'B^auuier. T'%«imr.ii7 TaoK Smiidk ' KbdbipQC at to coDutics <3f
Ot;i<:»hs *c ftL □. MfflDco 3i
7. BfiuLer'. AMiisrrcs Wiorpok-^iig-^QlKH^ishh. aox^ 32
II 'B4i£i«?7..' A£iia-Tiit WaJr-paOrOo^kQ A iL, anift. 34
». AJfidams W. C I>3Txd2Hi. aoLe ST
W^ '&€axi0sj.,' Alfirians i.-.fifnsd Oark. sBBie, 3i
IL Bcasi07.> A&iiCTi&E. 1». sw^^sKef, abi* -0
12L v^BcBSk7.> A£ids9is Aik<k*"C^ a aL, MB&a tf
X INDEX.
BxhiUtB— Continued. Page.
13. (Bentley.) Affidavit Ah-kis-kuck et al., relative to matter ol
fraudulent deeds, etc 43
14. rBentley.) Affidavit Tom Smith, refusal Indians to sign deeds.. . 44
15. (Bentley.) List lands in alleged fraudulent deeds (Indians*
names) in which Charles J. Benson is interested 45
Also copy deed from Ma-sha-she and Pa-no-Uia to W. L. Chapman. 46
16. (Bentley.) Affidavit Mack Johnson relative to signing of deeds. . 47
17. (Bentley.) Letter E. Ludlow to M. J. Bentley 48
18. (Bentley.) Affidavit Roman Cralan in re conduct Outcelt et al.
in Mexico, and denying partnership with Bentlev 48
19. ^Bentley.) Affidavit Annie Pecan as to arrest in Mexico 49
20. (Bentley.) Correspondence between State Department and In-
terior Department regardine instructions to American consulat
Diaz as to taking acknowledgments 60
21. (Bonnet.) Letter American consul, Diaz, to vice-consul relative
to treatment of Americans in Mexico 76
22. (Bonnet.) Telegram Assistant Secretary State to American con-
sul, Diaz, as to acknowledgments of deeds 83
23. (Pidi-ko-tah.) Copy allegea deed Pah-ko-tah and Pum-y-tum-
moke to W. L. Chapman 138
24. (Deer.) Letter fromO-ke-mah et id. to Senator Teller relative to
Indian lands, etc 185
25. rEmey.) Tel^jam Bentley to E. H. Emey as to contract, etc. . . 209
26. (Emeyj Applications for annuity 241
27. (G. A. 0.) Letter from Acting Attorney-General (Purdy) relative
to investigating Bentley and Kickapoo matters 299
28. (G.A.O.) Same 299
29. (G. A. 0.) Letter of instructions from J. W. Scothom, United
States attorney, to Geo. A. Outcelt, assistant United States attor-
ney, relative to above 398
30. ^Emey.J Copy check from M. J. Bentley to Ne-con-o-pit 399
81. (Goode.) Pay roll showing R. C. Conine as Spanish interpreter.. 400
32. (Howe.) Letter from Chester Howe to Secretary Interior, dated
August 20, 1906, requesting adjudication Kickapoo claims. [For
other letters same subject, see Exhibits Nos. 72 (Howe) to 92
(Howe), inclusive! 406
83. (Goode.) Letter and report of S. M. Brosius, agent Indian Rights'
Association, and accompanying capers 2019
Letter Chas. Curtis, M. C., to Hon. Thomas Ryan 2019
Letters. M. Brosius to Hon. Chas. Curtis 2019
Letter F. E. Leupo to Assistant Secretary Interior 2020
Report Broeius to Secretary Interior 2020
Exhibit A. — Copy of purported contract with W. S. Field, con-
taining copy or certificate of Martin J. Bentley {see Exhibit Q).. 2036
Exhibit B.— Affidavit of Thomas W. Alford 2025
Exhibit C— Affidavit of Walter H. Shawnee 2026
Exhibit D.— Affidavit of John C. King 2027
Exhibit E— Affidavit of Dudley H. Shawnee 2027
Exhibit F.— Affidavit of Dudley H. Shawnee 2028
Exhibit G.— Affidavit of William Shawnee 2029
ExhibitH.— Affidavit of "Elephant" 2029
Exhibit J.— Affidavit of Joseph Billy 2030
Exhibit K.— Affidavit of *' Switch Littleax " 2031
Exhibit L.— Affidavit of Thomas Washington 2032
ExhibitM.— Affidavit of "Long Man" 2032
Exhibit N.— Affidavit of Oc-que-nah-ko-the 2033
Affidavit of Noten 2033
Affidavit of Ko-ke-tha 2033
Affidavit of Mas-que-ken-ock 2033
Exhibit 0.— Affidavit of Lewis C. Grimes 2034
Exhibit P. — Copy of the petition to the Commissioner ol Indian
Affairs from the Mexican Kick-a-poos 2035
Exhibit Q.— Petition of the Absentee Shawnees 2036
84. (Goode.) Report of Cyrua Beede to the Secretary of the Interior,
dated October 3, 1898 2039
INDEX. XI
BsMUts— Continued. Page*
35. (Goode.) Report of Martin J. Bentley, special assistant United
States Indian agent beng detailed statement showing improve-
ments made on allotments duly sworn to 2043
36. (Goode.) Affidavit and statement of account of John W. Robert-
son, of Shawnee, Okla., with Rickapooe 2051
87. (Gooae.) Transcript of testimony of Ko-ke-tha and others con-
ceminff the council held at McLoud on August 15, 1898 2060
Testimony of Ko-ke-tha 2060
Ah-que-noc-o-ee 2061
Mah-che-ne-ne 2061
Lewis C. Grimes t 2061
No-ten 2062
0-ke-ma-a-som 2064
Pe-ah-twy-tuck 2064
Kah-to-quo-kah 2064
Pah-ka^ 2064
Pem-me-ton 2064
Ke-no-sha-ma 2064
Pa-pah-se-pe 2064
Big Jim 2065
John Taylor 2066
John Welsh 2066
Pecan 2066
Jackson Clark 2066
Bob White 2066
Enekon 2067
Par-the 2067
E.G. Phelps 2068
G.W.Adams 2068
William E. Shawnee 2069
0. G. Lee 2069
William F. Raniseier (2) 2070
Richard A. Timmonfl 2071
Kah-kah-eho-co-me 2071
0-ke-mah 2072
Joseph Whipple 2073
Thomas W. Alford 2073
W.S. Search 2074
Billy Panther 2075
L. E. Cooley 2076
Geo. M. Young 2076
0-ke-ma-thm 2077
J.W.Wayne 2077
Sidney Schram 2078
Pan-o-wa 2078
WilKam Shawnee 2079
O. S. McEwen 2079
J. H. Maxey 2080
E. W. Sweeney -2080
CM. Cade 2081
Joseph Clark 2081
C.J. Benson 2083
J. W. McLoud 2083
H.Wood 2084
88. (Goode.) Report of C. F. Nesler, inspector, to Secretary of Inte-
rior, dated August 17, 1897 2086
89. (Goode.) Report of Martin J. Bcntley, dated Shawnee, Okla.,
August 6, 1897, to C. F. Nesler, United States Indian inspector. . 2086
40. ((joode.) Report of Martin J. Bentley to Hon. John T. Oglesby,
special United States Indian agent, dated Shawnee, Okla., Feb-
ruary 15, 1897 2088
41. ((aoode.) Receipt of Dudley H. Shawnee, interpreter, second
quarter, 1899 2089
42. (Goode.) Letter M. J. Bentley to Commissioner Indian Affairs,
dated Shawnee, Okla., August 11, 1898 2089
Xn INDSX«
Exhibits— Continued. ?««••
48. (Goode.) Same, dated Shawnee, OUa., November 28, 1898 2089
44. (Bentley.) Lease between M. J. Bentley, legal guardian of Annie
H. Nah-ah-che and Levi J. Pipher 2090
45. (Bentley.) Leitter from Frank H. Thackerv to GommisBioner
Indian Affiedrs, and accompanying papers, relative to leases 2092
Letter from Thackerv to L. 0. Grimes 2094
Letter from Horace Speed, United States attorney, to Thack-
ery 2094
Letter from Thackery to Speed 2095
46. (Goode.) AffidavitofLewisG. Grimes, regarding Indian leases, etc. 2097
* 47. (Goode.) AflMavit of Lewis 0. Grimes, same 2098
48. (Goode.) Affidavit of William G. Grimes, same 2099
49. (Goode. ) Affidavit of Lewis C. Grimes, same 2100
60. (Goode.) Affidavit of A. G. Hollis. relative to action of James E.
Jenkins, inspector, and conduct of L. C. Grimes and L. J. Pipher . 2100
51. (Goode.) Affidavits of Mack Johnson and Pem-me- pah -hone as
to habits of L. J. Pipher 2101
52. (Goode.) Affidavit of Al. Staebler, as to habits of Lewis C. Grimes
and L. J. Pipher 2101
53. (Goode.) Affidavit of Wm. Muhlausen, same 2102
54. (Goode.) Affidavit of James F. Curry, same 2102
55. (Goode.) Affidavit of S. B. Robertson, same 2103
56. (Goode.) Affidavit of N. L. Bradley, same 2103
57. (Goode.) Affidavit of James M. Curry, same 2104
58. (Goode.) Affidavit of John W. Honea, same 2104
59. (Goode.) Affidavit of George Allen, same 2105
60. (Goode.) Letter of George H. Klein, as to character of L. G.
Grimes 2105
61. (Goode.) Letter of R. W. Cochrue, same 2105
62. (Goode.) Letter of M. A. O'Brien, same 2106
63. (Goode.) Letter of J. H. Whesler, same 2106
64. (Goode.) Letter of G. W. Garrison, same 210<J
65. (Goode.) Letter of D. P. Wright, same..... 2106
66. (Goode.) lietter of John Hubatka, same 2107
67. (Goode.) Letter of T. G. Griffith, same 2107
68. (Goode.) Letter of William P. Harper, same 2107
69. (Goode.) Letter of Frank W. Thackery, to Commissioner of Indian
Affairs, dated Shawnee, Okla., November 13, 1905, relative to
trouble between Pipher and Grimes 2108
70. (Goode.) Letter from James E. Jenkins, inspector, to Secretary of
the Interior, dated Muskogee, Ind. T., October 12, 1905, relative
to Indian leases and trouble between Pipher and Grimes 2112
71. Letter from Thomas Ryan, First Assistant Secretary Interior, to
ComroiFsioner Indian A£Fair8, dated Januarv 20, 1906, same subject 2115
(Exhibiti Nos. 7t to 98 ^ inclunyey are utters relating to clairm
of the Mexican Kickapoos rending in Mexico for moneys due from
the United States, under the provisions of tAe act of Congress of
April tl, 1906,)
72. (Howe.) Letter dated Eagle Pass, Tex., December 7, 1904, from
John Mine to Mr. Chester Howe 2116
Also two letters from Howe to Commissioner of Indian Affairs. . 2116, 2117
73. (Howe.) Letter from Howe to Indian Office, dated January 6,
1905 2118
74. (Howe.) Same, dated January 16, 1905 2118
75. (Howe.) Same, dated January 17, 1905 2118
76. (Howe.) Same, dated January 28, 1905 2119
77. (Howe.) Same, dated February 4, 1905 2119
78. (Howe.) Same, dated February 6, 1905 2119
79. (Howe.) Letter from Ket-e-qua to Chester Howe, dated March 12,
1905 2120
80. (Howe.) William Murdock to Chester Howe, dated May 20, 1905. 2120
81. (Howe.) M. J. Bentley to Chester Howe, addressed to ''Friend
Chester'* 2120
82. (Howe.) Letter from W. A. Bonnet to Chester Howe, dated May
12.1905 2120
zm
». BlPv* Skdiei. Qttfir Mifj li. >]i& 112
:k.2kk ca
C. H'j<v% Jjgsage inm <lieB:flr 3?«>e is T^trncr OSaat.. suoac Jnxtt
t. 23K6 22a
lift- nocacr tc'igv;tLi'jKiLi'jL :f !%rBBa. McxstacL i^.trJcKgng i^tcnma
lor-iaitrpBTiugLC -^ jowt iu:iiie7% aDem. jeManL laker zicrri^
THi iuTignTiwrti» ZL 'I'jdudXUIIIfc ._ 21235
MJai jsaerOnnnT.-wwiJiig' Idsjel AJtea u IL J. BmcagT nat
IS. 2K& ra
«aJ Ijoic ^•5l!7t OK^t ;Fa» IT. IWli na
91. 'B.i^e LgTocr x T^o-'Uif^-rai. Vi "unt 'l^annijammiee tf isft <3iBXr-
«a^ l*siiC ''.•&!*. oi&fft TizHr 2r. 2Wli._
ISl 'fi:<fr»u Lesser fr:ixx. <7his&!r &:«¥=« it iStf: OeiieeiJ lASif *>fii»..
aic*flJiait31 iWfi
i&. Sr"*^ IrfCier it -.liieB-ar Eiit* is Onaouaiiinia' rf ''^■^tK^T »i-
JKTT QfiBt Ori-Xisr 11 IWli in^-jfniT iesisr iran. Tin iHfflr... ynii
•1. S:in»i Ijer.« fcm. Jul iHiar li CSisBiar Hr-F* 3K>»c O-.r.-.c^r ' .
1W& rm
M 'Ht'ir*:. Leri?r frniL Iiir^sr •'»SiT»' i: rLarriET Qeuaa^ iis.»*t Toi*:
IS: IMC V. -tilx'Jl h Birj^inHfi i<a&»»ni*TTT; -jf k^r'.r:iiiii: apois
l&ai»*>-;f>& sbi Jv*-3ii. . . . ^ .' EH
dKac Jiihr n. IWH * ns
«:. ^:np«i rmi* tjcwt S?i:i:«ii.iig li IIKH 213
» E:nr* f«nfc aic<c I»»\«nJ:*»r H lUtK rJ3
M* «>jr>6*i £idffireu!3fr if l^Cioair I^fiisnziHnn Kiii niD'-cssniBXC if
TtV ic 5:1 ix : r&«
rxi-fti *r-t*«** i.r;:c:*^7- '.•'jr-'/ti:: 2131
311. "Grxryt Zj'^js 'T':nizLJjHi'ji**r '^irti-T jLfifczi w SiKTsarj" if isit
'hr.^ryx ikhi*: «i_:'.»*':!I_ .'..- TM
3ffi: G-Jua*. Injir?*-^^'!!::^ HIS
if JiriM«apsa:iL .'. '.. .. USS
2il- 'jr-oi*: firfcrj^ if w-rr* JL 'lnn/.*in ryiicrr* ^i •zij«i*'.'ii:aif dL
Munin. r Zf€a:z»i^ -wrr^ T^gu^'T t. j'txio: :7i*";Km rL T*xxri 'is,
iau»sr raii'.'T^ *: ]h£.£XaL*: tiii. "Lii^ z^zjt -iiaa^ :c "Lii**^ tfiTrrit^r t» ji
OjCii-liUXlflt sail HE *I TJii TT^lt •I'liT —if :|f 21illli*7' •M-Ti-rif -If "ii
jnioL ,..^..... .' * r.r .. fisi
cjHcrain ' -'.--'....* rmc
ifCHL*-iiaj^ r:4ii
5*-:::ti-.-^:c; n^i
3t:-.v!!_. ; 1141
Tfc-;ifr-Hii* 1141
'P'Li-;'a.x-v*»-'.ii* 1141
Tjssl ' c. -.-!•* -ia:r«*
'S"ij.-iii>i'- cr-Utr -'* ;u":
Cbtv-i-.-fiL.!
Pii'-x-rc*-»i-: n-iii
fi:inig ^jtiiSSUL .
•K
XIY IKDEX.
BzhiUte— Continued. ^itCtt-
Ah-ten-y-tuck 2147
Mack Johnson 2147
Pa-pea-thep-pea 2148
WaB-theck-ko-na-hah 2148
Ah-kiB-kuck 2149
Also letters from R(Hnan Galan to Juan Jose Galan 2150
W. A. Bonnet to Senator Teller 2151
We-ha-ni-ha and Noten to Chester Howe 2152
L. A. Guajardo to G. A. Outcelt '2153
105. (Goode.) (Exhibit No. 1 to Outcelt*s report.) Public record of
liie property in Monclova district, certificate of Alberto Lobo,
dated May 28, 1906, atMondovo, Mexico 2157
106. (Goode.) (Ejchibit No. 2 to Outcelt's report.) Affidavit of
Henry Murdock. dated June8, 1906 2157
107. (Goode.) (Exhibit No. 8 to Outcelt's report.) Paper addressed
to the auxiliary judge, San Francisco, M!exico, and signed by the
Jefe politico, L. A. Guajardo 2158
108. (Goode.) (Exhibit 4 to Outcelt's report.) Letter from John T.
Reffan, dated August 7, 1906, relative to Bentley 2159
109. (Goode.) (Exhibit 7 to Outcelt's report.) Letter from Tom
Smith to superintendent Carlisle Indian School 2159
Also accompanying letter of Frank A. Thackery relative thereto. 2159
Also statement of Tom Smith in regard to above letter 2160
(Goode.) (Exhibit 9 to Outcelt's report.) Translation of a let-
ter dated August 25, 1906, from L. A. Guajardo. (This letter
is made a part of Exhibit No. 104) 2153
110. (Goode.) (Exhibit 10 to Outcelt's report.) Outcelt*s statement,
made upon request of J. W. Scothom, United States attorney
for district of Oklahoma, of his trip to Mexico 2160
111. (Goode.) (Exhibit 11 of Outcelt's report.) Translation of
cop>[ of aeed, from Celedonio Galan to Lawyer Salvador Garza
C^illian, having a power of attorney from Martin J. Bentley,
of six days of water, together with the land in San Francisco
plantation (dated July 12, 1906) 2162
112. (Goode.) (Exhibit 12 of Outcelt's report.) Tabulated statement
of deeds of record in Oklahoma to lands sold imder the act of
June 21, 1906 2165
113. (Goode.) (Exhibit 13 of Outcelt's report.) Copy of deed from
I-msh-kin to W. W. Ives 2169
114. (Goode.) (Exhibit 14 of Outcelt's report.) Translation made
by W. C. Douglas of a certified copy of court record proceedings
had by George A. Outcelt in Mexico against M. J. bentley 2169
Mr. Goode also submitted (as Exhibit 15 to Outcelt's report)
a statement of M. J. Bentley regarding the Kickapoo Inaians
before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, beginning
March 22, 1906, which is the testimony and statements of M. ^
Bentley in the paper marked *' Hearings before the Committee
on Indian A£fairs, March 22 to April 4, 1906," and will be
found in the Appendix, beginning page 1928
115. (Gkxxie.) (Exhibit 1151 to Outcelt's report.) Affidavit of
Russell Johnson 2180
115i. (Goode.) Translation of document from Carmen Conine 2180
116. (Goode.) Letter signed ''Thackery, superintendent," dated
June 4, 1906... 2181
117. (Goode.) Letter from Department of Justice, dated April 20,
1906, with translation of letter to President of the Unitea States
(unsigned) dated March 28, 1906 2182
118. (GoodeO Report of Charles H. Dickson relative to purported
sales and probable fraudulent conveyances by certain mem-
bers of the Kickapoo tribe in Mexico of allotted lands in Okla-
homa, etc., dated October 11, 1905, together with accompany-
ing papers 2 1 82
119. (Goode.) (Exhibit 1 to Dickson's report.) Letter from Horace
Speea to Charles H. Dickson, dated June 24. 1905. regarding
evidence desirable to set aside deeds 2196
INDBZ. X7
BxliiUt»-Oontmiied. P«<^
120. (Qoode.) (Exhibit 2 to DickBon's leport.) Letter from £. H.
Conger, embassador to Mexico, to Uharlee H. Dickson, dated
July 16, 1906 2197
121. (Goode.) (Exhibit 3 to Dickson's report.) Translation of two
letters dated at Saltillo. Mexico, July 17-18, 1905 2197
122. ((]h)ode.) (Exhibit 4 of Dickson's report. "^ Translation of letter
from Miguel Cardenas, dated July 17, 1905 2198
123. ((]h)ode.) (Exhibit 5 of Dickson's report.) Same, dated July 18,
1905. - 2199
124. (GoodeV) (Exhibit 5 of DicJESon's report) Same, dated July 17,
1905 2199
125. (Qoode.y (Exhibit 7'ofDiciE8on's report.) Same, dated July 18,
1905 2199
120. (Goode.) (Exhibit 8 of Dickson's report.) Memorandum dated
at Mondova, Mexico, July 20, 1905 2199
127. (Goode.) (Exhibit 9 of Dickson's report.) I/etter from Arthur
C. Wheatley relative to bribery by Bentley 2200
128. (Gtoode.) (Exhibit 10 of Dickson's report.) Letter from E. H.
Conger, dated August 3, 1905, with two inclosures 2200
129. (Goode.) (Exhibit 11 of Dickson's report.) Memorandum
marked Notes regarding the Nacimiento lands held by the
Federal Government of Mexico for the benefit of the Mexican
Kickapoo and Muskogee Indians, numbering about 600 " 2201
130. (Goode.) (Exhibit 12 of Dickson's report.) Examination of
Kickapoo Indians at their camp near Muzquiz:
Testimony of Kish-ke-nic-quote 2202
0-ke-mah 2203
Ne-con-no-pit 2203
Wah-nah-ke-tha-hah 2203
No-ten 2204
181. (Groode.) Certified copy of the proceedings of voluntarv juris-
diction promoted by Mr. C. H. Dickson with date of July 26,
1905 2204-
Also letter from M. J. Bentley to Wah-pe-cha-oiiah 2210
132. (Goode.) (Exhibit 15 of Dickson's report.) Tninslation of th^
petition of Dickson addressed to the iiniit court of letters, signed
by Dickson and Arthur C. Wheatley 2210
Toeether with interrogatories for and answers made by certain
Indians:
Answer of 0-ke-mah 2212
Wah-nah-ke-the-hah 2212
Ne-con-o-grit 2213
No-ten 2213
Wah-puck-weche 2214
Tapa-thea 22 14
Ah-na-thi-pack 2214
Ah-na-the-nack-quahwo 2215
Kish(Kenic) quot 2215
Thi-the-quah 2216
Ah-saw-wah-see-quah 2216
183. (Goode.) Interrogatories for Indians contained in petition filed
July 22, 1905, by Dickson, together with answers made by cer-
tain Indians 2217
Answer of 0-ke-mah 2217
Wah-nah-ke-the-hah 2218
Ne-con-o-pit 2218
No-ten 2218
Tah-pah-she 2219
Wah-puck-we-che 2219
Ah-no-tha-hah-quah 2219
Kish-ke-nic-quote 2220
Thi-the-quah 2220
134. (Goode.) (Exhibit 20 to Dickson's report.) Interrogatory filed
with nrst court of letters in Monclova, July 26, 1905, for Martin
J. Bentley to answer, together with his answers to the same 2220
136. (Ckode.) (Exhibit 20 to Dickson's report.) Interrogatories for
Roman (lalan to answer •••••••••••««««••««••««•«<.* 'fiCl^.
XVl TSDJSX.
BzhiUtB— Continued. P«ffB-
136. (Qoode). (Exhibit 22 to Dickson's report.) Galan's answers to
above interrogatories 2225
137. (Qoode.) (Exhibit 23 to Dickson's report.) Certifted copy of
deed 0-ke-mah to Ives 2225
138. (Goode.) (Exhibit 24 to Dickson's report.) Same 2226
139. (Goode.) (Exhibit 25 to Dickson's report.) Cortified copy of
deed from Thi-the-qua to Ives 2227
140. rGk)ode.) ^Exhibit 26 to Dickson's report.) Same 2228
141. (Goode.) (Exhibit 27 to Dickson's report.) Certified copy of
deed from Tah-pah-thea to Ives 2229
142. (Goode.) (Exhibit 28 to Dickson's report.) Same 22:iO
143. (Goode.) (Exhibit 29 to Dickson's report.) Certified copy of
deed from Ne-con-o-pit and wife to Ives 2231
144. (Goode.) (Exhibit 30 to Dickson's report.) Certified copy of a
deed from Wah-nah-keth-hah and wilo to Ida B. Bcntley 2232
145. (Goode.) (Exhibit 31 to Dickson's report.) Certified copy of a
deed from Kish-kin-e-quote and wife to Ida B. Bentley 2233
146. (Goode.) (Exhibit 33 to Dickson's report.) Certified copy of a
deed from No-ten to J. H. Everest 2234
147. (Goode.) (Exhibit 33 to Dickson's report.) Affidavit of Ne-
pah-hah, wife of Kish-kin-e-quote, as to deeds, etc 2235
148. (Goode.) (Exhibit 34 to Dickson's report.) Minutes of confer-
ence held April 15, 1905, at Much-a-ninnie's camp, about 3
miles from Snawnee, Okla., regarding Bentley's actions while
agent 2235
149. (Goode.) (Exhibit 35 of Dickson's report.) AflSdavit of Thomas
W. Alford as to Bentley's moral conduct 2236
150. (Goode.) (Exhibit 36 of Dickson's report.) Aflfidavit of Frank
A. Thackery as to opposing Bentley's appointment as guardian
for minor Indians 2236
151. (Goode.) (Exhibit 37 of Dickson's report.) Aflfidavit of Eliza-
beth Test as to Bentley's conduct with Indians and character. . 2237
152. (Goode.) (Exhibit 38 of Dickeon's report.) Statement of Tap-a-
thea as to deeding of land to Bentley 2237
153. (Goode.) (Exhibit 39 of Dickson's report.) Excerpt, copy of
letter to Dick son from Thackery, dated July 30, 1905, regard-
ing Indians in Mexico, etc 2238
154. (Goode.) (Exhibit 40 of Dickson's report.) Statements made by
Indians to Supervisor Dickson at Indian camp near Muzquiz,
Mexico, July 24, 1905, regarding money transactions with
Bentley 2238
Statement of Tah-na-the-hah 22:^8
Wah-sko-tah 2239
Pe-quah 2239
155. (Goode.) (Exhibit 41 of Dickson's report.) Copy of complaint
filed in aistrict court of Pottawotanue County, Okla, by Mary
Pan-e-tho v. M.J. Bentley 2239
Exhibit (copy of note |7,000 by M. J. Bentley to Mary
Pan-e-tho) 2240
156. (Goode.) (Exhibits 42 and 43 of Dickson's report.) Letter from
Shawnee Townsite Company, dated September 7, 1905, with
two inclosures, relative to possession of certain lands from
0-ke-mah and Tith-e-qua 2240
157. (Goode.) (Exhibit 44 oi Dickson's report.) Letter from Henry
C. Jones to Commissioner of Indian Affairs, dated September 8,
1905, allerinp fraud against Indians 2241
158. (Goode^ (Exnibit 45 of Dickson's report.) Letter from Shaw-
nee Townsite Company, dated September 7, 1905, relative to
acknowledgments of Inaian deeds 2242
159. (Goode.) Exhibit 46 of Dickson's report.) Statement of Henry
C. Jones as to conversation with Bentley, dated September 8,
1905 2242
160. (Goode.) (Exhibit 47 of Dickson's report.) Affidavit of Rachel
Kirk, as to Bentley's relations with Annie Pecan 2242
161. (Goode.) (Exhibit 48 of Dickson's report.) Affidavit of Henry
0. Jones, same 2242
xm
^SSat ^iaBmpaa£ .. mauf 2SO
ppisiiifiiCff- nt i&ff- aiicni!T3siit^ <if T3I{& Xxn^^oziv liiiTTfiTti. flb»>
;90i±D^ aetaons if B^oniW. -sciL TSfO
IML .'GwH^e 'I^Tfixbiic il if I}v.kmrr9 nepnzs.' IfeinnianifemL if
oo&sf <*>ia^Hr£n sdiocirT^ tn Xszican. lozui inacsffie&. <gk 2&fti
101 > ("jr^fifiift. 'Ex^zhsc ^ if Dtciann' s e*¥pccfL 54TC« <if <unLiiuBfc
tahojf ^if&f Trock fi^pr. Fat^i? X. Aodss, if t&ft €flC&a£K ^"^mt^fc
Itamyii'j, BPg'.wfliig' BQrsigcywL 21^
lot ^ rjin. lEsiiteil :r DTi'.kacn:'jc»?pr.rL fr«XHiuf -^lAtfBefc^
Eaiiains ac i^&arirniw^ J^>>mlrT. J^^ 2M§
dtooniaisif MTichr^-ae^ft^ Sf&
K«Hi.JSirA S»
OKar^:M E»
0^aL-fl«ixH»-Ar<r-<iHiiTBr 2US
10t 'IHuK&Krx, JL) Sacamai: if fdzu^ wd si HanraoL Hsrrkipnii'
IbiiixiiUf ^7 F. JL TluMikt^rx. 9ipf>cii&miti«i£ iml fc*H!isu. <i»-
bnzBnir ^h^roxl 'Ssfr im^sx i]a Ejdixbis Iffi for oomes Mui
ii!i!niizii» 29fi»-2SS9
lE?[ii Ljhc if ^!aKS v^iif^ Franic JL Thadcerj wm vg^knaed guiMgfian.
tu nuarazip«%imc Sjitiiscnn Lifizanft..
CniCMi ^tauKs Boari if lodiiuL C'lmmiiauiiwK, waam^BO^ m^ ^^
rgiirs» r»iai±i^ la omiStas X ^SBnif» Lii£b^ SSST
Rsan&xi^ oi.'TXBaBazacaiiL by fohrninmiccaf- •md nrrlnwaiy Iitt if
▼aauiMiM irto mxi^ h!^<iSi»d - - 2S9II
1?4. LflM-y 3r>TiL F. 2L Lerrop. CffiTnTTTHwiiiiiqr if laican. ^fainf
viaczsanim: flihiiiicn!iitf> parr: if ^ssaur Hasj %. IM!, ^' ise maticf &
mvn It ihf*^ in-TOfffozsKiniL sort fw^i^TTny tsi fcasi>aniaxs iiuk£& %7
B<<gicliff7 "ii'fflir* "ail* 'Tniiiinixav**^ . ,^. - .-
175.. Ecc&grfrrniiC A. ICiaraur «04riahnina <CiE]f. OftiiBL. dac^fi E>«iBnfr-
^•Br 15. l!3f)7. rrrrTiTWTur rnrfrgin <'iti||*fj _
Xnu^ ir IlKM. ?*Hadiiir !^i BLodiiicon lUBXias joxt jitriffixi^ if ^b
imor!tiniini**nc hn- Jf.-yr'rTin iniiiiirxa»g. . 2Mft
ET £«&ar ar.m Bail'B»»ar '!iffT«miift "ii "STucar i Fbsikl f&ca£
5^*am:»ir :i!L jWT _. 23l»
E^ '^yccoj^. yi^mrxxcuianL if 'iffC'wini by IL X B*Hinii?7' iix •&&
B«irfi»r !fr;iru;iiifci 5tmjr f _ _ liflS
ET^ <Clttrk. L**TX.»r inm if. X. B^inW 5i X»w«3cl •Hark. <mc.*fl "vraa-
i2*ar J5 JXIS _. /. " :j5»
Iffl Clark. iuni^. iax:^ May 14. liW* I5«J'
Iftl. 'Tliirk: fsBnt^. iai:r*<i .luiJiary 3 'Mf\ L3ii2
ISL Gark:,. Sum*, imair.^. . . \._ I5K1
lar. <:Tark 5>imi» iar-Ht F^narj <. :J*}5 1^1
1**4. <Tlark. •jinii*. tact*<t rin»* 14.' IjH2
V^ 'Tlark. ^aoi»». iai>»*i A uriar. 2i jWfi liKi
WK Clark Sunt*, ar.ni ^harinftit. <Okla. . Tin{ar.*»<f ._, Ia»Cl
iST. ^Tlark •sum*. iEB:«Hi Xamxary IT. I3«15 V4«*rji4*r irrji imrfnawf
arjimnoaayimr jrtCiaa.,, I XjiQ
lai. •Tlark:. ' •ami»,''iac«f J^.naxy Isi. ::Wfi L5H4
L^ 'TTark. *aim*. ia&»ft ■ j»!r*:r.»»r 14. 1:W5 Ij»K
L ''lark L«rr.«r i«fitr«»«et v. ? X JLntiwr.Ti, *^ ? >_ ^nrhi^n
gy.ir r^sazL, Sniii&;n, Tfc. ta&sfi J'tonarj 1 :.]«}6. inwgnget. . 'JiSi
XVin INDEX.
p.
Pair ground tract, allotmenta 1577-1579, 1610, 172&-1731
Palcon, Amaranto (««; ai«o Telegrams) 1421.1422.1428
Pield, Walter B.Uee also Telegrams; Exhibits):
Attorney for Kickapoos 18^3
Contract with Big Jim band Shawnees 2036
Telegrams 39,1437,1438,1630
Testimony of f 84,85,1843-1859,1978-1983
Pint National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex. {see also Telegrams) 5, 6, 431,
434, 476, 481, 483, 484, 491-493, 504, 545, 604, 702, 731, 739, 748,
797, 805, 817, 821, 1149, 1208-1210, 1220, 1234, 1243, 1245, 1248
Account of W. L. Chapman with 604
Accounts of Indians with 492, 493
Telegrams 481, 1417, 1418, 1427, 1432, 1435, 1436, 1444-1450
Pive Civilized Tribes, agreement with 1586
Pletoher, James, deed 645
Porged checks 478-491, 502-510, 637, 638, 965, 1150, 1239, 1245, 1337
Pund, Kickapoo land, account of 1706
Qalan, A. Q., testimony of 1971-1974
Qalan, C. {see also Telegrams) • 1 1427
Qalan, Romani
Affidavit of 48,49,2225
Account with Kickapoos 2132
Telegrams 1438
Galindo, JuUo (<M aZ«o Telegrams) 1420,1421,1670
Garcia, P. , Col. {see also Telegrams) 1428
Garland, Emma (Wah-pe-tuck) 587,622,624
Lease to L. A. Hanipton 1194
Pforaissory note of Bentley to 1608,1609
Garret, John {see also "Chapman-Grimes-Conine People; '' Telegrams):
Agreement with Hood and Jacobs 1255
Agreement with Grimes, Conine, and Jacobs 1268, 1269, 1288
Deeds 644,647,648,653,656,1262-1204,1268,1270-1272
Deeds, consideration and value of 1268, 1270-1272
Proposition to appraise value of lands 1273
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1435-1437,1444-1447,1449,1450
Testunony of 1267-1273
Garret, Mattie, {see also Telegrams) 1450
Garrison, G. W., letter of 2106
Garsa, B. J. {see also TelegmmB) 1419
Gerome Commission 1641,1899, 1900
Gill, Jim 1262
Goode. Mark {see also Telegrams; Exhibits), representative of Indian OfTice. 68, 110
Telegrams 1437,1439,1441,1442,1440
Testunony of 400.401
Goodrich, P. S., United States commissioner, affidavit of 1938
Gostin, John 1788,1789
Testimony of 889-902
Graham, Geo. F. (see also Telegrams; Exhibits):
Accounts with Indians 1375, 1376, 1380, 1520, 1521, 1722, 1809-1824
Accounts with, profits on 1372, 1374
Accounts, interest charges 1375
Accounts, commissions to Bentley for collections of. .. 1381, 1386, 1387, 1523, 1524
Explanation of telegrams from Benton 1370, 1371, 1522
Payment to Bentloy 1382
Patents from Indians 1622, 1523
Telegrams 1423,1424,1449,1450
Testunony of 1368-1387,1519-1525
Gray, A. H., and wife:
Deeds 653
Suits filed against 183^1840
INDEX. XIX
0]ifilth,T. J 2107
Qzinies, L. C. (see oZso Grimes-Chapman-Gonine People; Letters; Exhibits):
Affidavits <rf 2034,2061,2096-2099,2100
Agreements with, Benfion, Brown & Chapman 1164, 1195, 1196, 1213, 1222
Agreement with Cade & Johnston 1274, 1287
jf^reement with Garret, Jacobs & Conine 1267, 1268, 1287, 1288
Alexander, Tony, agent of 1301
Chapman, trouble with 1291
Character of 270,1246
Conduct of, in Mexico 1169,
1484-1488, 1534-1559, 1667, 1668, 1688, 1689, 1745-1747, 1846, 1847
Debauchery of Indians 19, 29, 30-32, 133, 1639, 1669, 1688, 1844, 1845
Deeds to 643,645,647,650,653,658,1296-1341
Consideration and value of 1307,1312-1318,1333
Delivery of papers to committee 1376
Guajardo, transactions with 294, 1341
Guardian for Indian 1556, 1557
Indian camp, at 1291,1292
Investigation of 1566
Marriage of minors 1296-1341
Notice to, not to remove Indians to Mexico 1000,2004
Patents delivered to 1586-1588
Suits filed against 1838-1840,2092
Thackery, trouble with 1404
Telegrams 1417, 1418, 1421, 1424, 1430, 1432, 1434-1437, 1443, 1444, 1449, 2004
Testimony of 1285-1341,1576
Qzimetf, Martha (Mrs. L. C):
Deeds 643,645,647,650,653,654
Deeds, order to pay Cade 1576
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Chimes, W. C. (Tack):
Affidavits of - 2099
Deeds :..... 645,646,657,1158
Hearing before Guajardo 294
CtaJTnm, P. C, bank notice 912
Ghiajardo, Oenaro, payee forcjed checks {see also Checks) 485-488, 490, 491
Quajardo, L. Alberto, Jefe Politico (see also Telegrams; Exhibits):
Alleged bribery of 1229,1536
Instructions to Mexican police 594
Instructions to Indians not to leave Mexico 534, 562. 563
Memorandum of conversation with 2243
Telegrams 1418-1423,1425,1427-1431,1433
Testmiony of 588-603
Threats to Indians 27,28,93,151,152
Transactions before 151, 152, 158, 159, 162,
167, 280, 281, 315, 316, 1207, 1214, 1215, 1240, 1341, 1543, 1544, 1547,
1548, 1631, 1663, 1683, 1715, 1745-1749, 1778, 1779, 1856, 1858, 1859
OuardiaiiBhip letter 2090
OuardiaiiBhip cases 1591-1596
Ouerra, P., & Bro 636,659,758,966,1722,1809
Hampton, Leonard A.:
Allotments, contest of 1135, 1138, 1571, 1G71, 1697-1703, 1751, 1754, 1758, 1873
Contract with Bentley 1161,1751
Contract with Ives 1454
Lease from Emma Garland 649,1194
Letters from Bentley 1700, 1753
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 1134-1139,1194
Harper, B. 8.:
Deeds 643,1156
Suits filed afjfainst 1 838- 1 840
Harper, Wm. P 2107
Harrah fund account 1557
Harrah State Bank 1331
27818— S. Doc. 215, 60-1— vol 3 ^
XX nfDBXi
HmtIs, Theodore, testimony of 1975, 1976
Harti 8. A..B., notice of allotment purchase 1817
HeazinffB before Committee on Indian Affairs 1928-1987
Herding IndianB 6,703,722,735,736,741
Herrera, Eraexno (see also Telegrams) 1428
HOI, Jane, testimony of 1613-1617
Hiatory or Kickapooa 1885
Hitchcock, Secretary of Interior. (See Letters.)
Holden, J. P., affidavit of 1938
HoUia, A. Q., affidavit of 2100
Homeatead entry:
Relinquishment, John Lyle 1768
Contest of Ives and Bentley 1770
Contest, M.J. Bentley 1570,1572
Honea, John W. , affidavit of 2104
Hood, E. £.:
Mentioned 13
Agreement with Garret & Jacobs 1256
AUotmentfl, purchase of 1122, 1126, 1 126
Allotments, proposition to appraise value of 1128
Claims no interest in certain deed 1129
Deeds and mortgages 646, 653
Marriage of minors 1124
Notified by subcommittee not to make deed 1128
Shav/nee State bank transactions with 1123
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 1121-1131
Howe, Chester (see also Letters; Exhibits):
Appeal Secretary of Interior, lease money, Kickapoos 2122
Contract, Kickapoos 402
In re Kickapoo annuities, etc 401, 409, 413, 1873-1882, 2116-2133
Testimony of ^ 401-413,1873-1882
HoTt, H. M., Acting Attorney-General. (See Letters; Exhibits.)
Hubatka, John, letter of 2107
I.
Dcenberry, A. H.:
Conduct of Conine, Grimes, Outcelt, et al. , Mexico 1482-1504
Condition of Indians in Mexico 1482-1504
Testimon)^ of 1482-1504
Imbecile Indian (Paw-kaw-kah) 524
548, 556, 557, 697, 724, 774, 1178, 1204, 1230, 1231
Indian Appropriation Bill (restriction clause), June 21, 1906 419
Indian funds, general (see also Exhibits), deposits of 476-491,
604, 620-635, 661, 1367, 1609, 1610, 1674-1678, 1705,
1706, 1709-1711, 1714, 1722-1725, 1809-1824, 2249-2296
Indian camp 1291, 1292, 1507, 1517, 1528, 1535, 1536, 1550, 1603, 1631, 1715, 2202
Indiana: (see also Kickapoo.)
Refusal to draw moneys from bank 1145
Intimidation and cruel treatment of 188
189, 283, 284, 440, 628, 632, 728, 735, 755, 762, 779, 792, 845, 877!
1172, 1205, 1206, 1227, 1228, 1294, 1340, 1536, 1844-1856
Indian Rights Aaaodation. (See Brosius.)
I-nish-kin (I-meah-kin):
^ee(\Boi.... 643,647.2169
Testimony of 1021-1024
Ives, W. W. (see also Telegrams; Exhibits; Bentley People) 3-14
Affidavit of 1770
Character of .*.*.".".'.'.' 196
Commissions paid Indian land sedes ".....!.*"'! 1459
Contract as trustee with Ida B. Bentley ...'///,',. 1397
Deeds and mortgages to 641-658
. . 1389, 1395. 1467-1474, 1480, 1733-1735V2169, 2225-2231
Does not claim title other than as trustee 1392
Lands to be bought in Mexico 1393
Leases to Ives ././/./. 1479
Leaae money '/.'.,.. 1398
Money turned oyer to lien tley 1460, i461, 1463
ff^pignip- <TiP!itt£ giBSiiuiffif 1 .'«,' IVfi&MBIi
faaV MUt tTinyr^j^Hpy- ^^ afltnantwrtg BSHt I1SI&
D^ioGsan. 'if pness^ 'if 13Bffc L^ffli t«ffiLB483;
CAimmBHiiixs (sn - - V^Btt
&BL F-canciiHP^n zsuzfiL. _ I>«11IHK
iaimiLstihjrmaAa^Bam _ I2»l EKft iaffi-4]*»
Tafaanm*- _ JM^-lAC:
Tr«Baiiim^<if, _.,_ - Bai6^i:jaai,]ifit-Ii«!:
TStitJA Sgflaia. BipfflfiB » ta , _ _ SC9
T&natJipwaiiiBim ._ , ii*«t i^Hl niWJ' I:1WI tlfVL msr. MS^ MH^. M»
Tfcaateft&rliiinanB^, - HJJKX L452. Ll&L Ij|§g^. 14^ Ic«S-^48&
TalbKdf £is&iiLlaiii&^ , njflft-IOae: iag6^]13B«,.Btfii^I^£»t.l^<n
J^fffimifmc "¥!!:& (Garr»n .Kifi &}#i«L J ', CSft-l
JbBnaniStc wtdi. *GdxiJft* ." I2K
I^iM^s. , _ B^r..I^.E»i
]>iiifi&. <!!miBi633raiiL soft 'Tiiuii'^ if limi^ iSS^.JSSSkVXS^WUk
ftefais&rr)i&«-9«^^^^i^:»liiiui..,.. I _ ,, Ei»
Tf^Se^^sMOB^. .„ r-131 Mafe-I*«a
ToBaman:^ if _ B25*-£Sir
wa^mtyiant^ _ r^ ^!fl C3; mafti ES®
J«n#»g>^ Imtiaii i2iHp»»<'.n:r _ _ iH'
ibrvwmnicina if L. «I. ♦*j:cnn*s SittI
ait^rasTif^ __ 2II2
ToSBzuuEj il. , D9lii L5cift
aiHi^ r>iiiiiiii—-|in .t'W ^^ranmi^ «C«uumiBmiiii.
BftRfBiQi: if, 4S^
W^me^ "hjsfSss mm lim ^^^As , -« , 4g<i €11
p <S3nEXiiaii» tilfiisufHic if ^Bk
. rmifTkia^ ir. _ At
JLfiitiT'Uft if ! CT. 2aHL2&4gr
C«raiir.a&t if la KiM^o^it^ i •it»«»«L _ 11:23'
CbsfdB 12L liaak. "vrnuMBftit trjr jgft
C&i5Rfe winiesH**! ^y . ... t84i WS.
SiEiioib7>«t ^ (-xcniiai % in to Mi+siiTn,,. ^SBt
fixc» l&!f£ atomtf ,' „. _ VSS^IA^
Tidseamff. S^sat
TflsanmrTif , ... 4S\^'». 5Vt «6. 5«-ia!i«fiL •«»
kiBBa&. lyiiBUHlT jnr 'Xi«s * ivhuomaii<'(^kmii^fMC<iiuiuf ^iffipift;" Ofi^iBB^ ,. %.n
JbUfa^rrj; if " ^ , 2Ea»
JtowaxuHic ▼iJi. C M. Cittii!^ jmt iia»g»- , _ ia«i liS^ CaBT
SmiF tflgfi jg!nniic „ „ L«»--C**
Tglipgramff^/. _ IrfiT. l^G^yS^MiSLl'^^
.Mofw^^L^^L mi^t[m TT'^fe^iSBn* ^ _. l^ftlSut-^fli Ir*»
^\tTigonB^.. fgr
,W3LMrit ¥» turn ' *^iikgmaait^'£Cinjf^s-*'.*\mn£r F*wgigt.'^ v^Qtati 1».B^
JbsfwtDtau: TTJSL :. IL 'TartJ^^^jL ES«£. lar* EUBr
Hmwtesi 441}. -444: 4*91. n^m^^im, nr^i:2a&
I>!iffl& 'tnnfflrffflanr.Ti init -^oiii** .f '-umttf ^niu|^. VS^^-^^SS^
ILif^aiBimiiuL if IS ui^#*-o>u'k-^ ' 2S*
$fxx7S £^R«€ scBuo: '...'. _ ias»-L*tf»
'ir«»&a!!an» '_ - WB
Hffrnmunrj jf.... I^-^-iSSB
.*if!rfK9ii» if, ._ „ 2Se!
^ajomimosBe... _ MWr^DSIIC
T^afanuiiTTif _ Wm^Um
Jiiibw. Kasni. ti***ft 'f .. . . _„. ffil. •i]^
xzn nfDBx.
Kao-flheok-ko-thah (Keendieok-ko-tliaJi) and wife: P<^8«-
Deed of 644
Deedmgned by 1008
SuitB filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 1006-1011
Kah-kah-ohe, check to Tah-pah-she drawn by 509, 510
Kah-kah-sho-come, affidavit of 2071
Xali-'kali-to-the-€[uaii:
Checka forged 485,503,604,545,738,978
Deed of 644
Deed not signed by : 433,738
Deposit slip in bank 483
Lease to Ives 1479
Testimony of 737-740
Kah-ke-ne-peah:
Deed of 644,1257,1263,1271
Deed not signed by . / 663
Lease money 1414
Xah-pali-he-ho-quali:
Deed of 644,1167
Deed not signed by 433,826
Foiiged checks 486,606,646,826
Testimony of 826-827
Xah-pah-o-xnah. deed of 644
Kah-tah-ka-ho-ko :
Deed, did not sign 971
Check forged 490,602,643,978
Suits filed 1838,1840
Testimony of 976-979
Kah-to-auo-kah, affidavit of 2064
Kah-tuck-o-kah, allotment of . . *. 1757
Xan-no-pe-the, deed of 646
Kau-ne-pe-the, deed of 644
Ke-ah-qua-mo-ke (Kee-ah-qua-no-ke), deed of 644
Ke-ah-que-quah (Ble-ah-qua-quah):
Deeds of 646,649,660
Testimony of 871
Ke-ah-tha-com-o-ke-quah:
Deed of 645
Deeds, refusal to sign 430, 769
Fofffed checks 488, 507, 642, 769
Testimony of 768-760
Kee-che-che, contest of allotment of 1131
Kee-nah-ko-thet, deed of 646
Ke-nah-mah-tho, deed of 644
KennedT, D. N., notice of allotment purchased 1817
Ke-no-ana-ma, affidavit of 2064
Ke-o-si-ah-quah, deed of 646
Ke-o-tuck, affidavit of 2248
Keo-tha-ho-oua. (See Rachel Kirk.)
Ke-to-quah (Ke-te-qua):
Affidavit of 2120
Deed of 646,646,1167
Deed, rofunal to sign 432
Checks forged 486,504,606,641
KiokapooB, Kickine (see also Indians):
Accounts with 1369-1375, 1380, 1620, 1621, 1532, 1709-1714, 1809-1824, 2061
Accounts, interest rates on money loaned to 1375
Accounts, commission to Bentley 1881, 1386-1388
Accounts, profits on 1372,1374
Affidavits of 30-34,37-44,47,48
Affidavits regarding treaty 1899
Agreement with Five Civilized Tribes 1686
Agreement with affiliated tribes to move to Mexico 1912, 1913
Aflottees (under act June 21, 1906) 641-658
IKDEZ. XXI
Iv«ft. W. W.— Continued. ^••^
rower of attorney to H. T. Douglas to cancel mortgages 1392
Property owned personally 1455-1458
Sale ana mortgage of allotments 1390, 1395
Disposition of proceeds of 1390,1460,1461,1463
Commissions on 1390
San Francisco ranch 1461, 1465
Suits filed by and against 1396,1398,1833-1840
Telegrams 1445-1447
Testumonyof 1388-1399,1451-1482
Title to leases, report as to 1479
Trust agreements 684, 585, 1389, 1390, 1391, 1397, 1465, 1466, 1480
Trustee for Indians , 1392,1452,1453,1455,1458,1463-1465
Value of Indian lands 1390-1392, 1395, 1396, 1464, 1470, 1471
Jacobs, J. B. ($ee dUo '^Chapman-Grimes-Conine people; " Tel^;rams):
Agreement with Garret and Hood 1255, 1267, 1268
Agreement with Grimes .• 1288
Deeds 1257,1262,1264
Deeds, consideration and value of lands bought 1257, 1259, 1263, 1264
Patent for Pah-pe-anshe's land 1258
Telegrams 1434,1435,1443
Testmonyof 1254-1267
Jaggl'to wagon yard 274,420,478,1293,1365
Jenkizia, James E. . Indian inspector 659
Investigation of L. C. Grimes 1566
Report of 2112
Testimony of 1565,1566
Jerome ComxniMdon. {See Gerome Commission.)
Jhnines, Jesus Qarza:
Receipt of 484
Foigea checks («ee a28o Checks) .* 484-491
Johnson, Bill, erroneous allotment of 658
Johxison, Hal, mortgage of 6^7
Johnson, Maek {see aUo Telegrams; Exhibits):
Affidrfvits^of 47,2101,2147
Certificate of, on Ma-tha-kothe's deed 1129
Checks in blank, witnessed by 506
Checks witnessed by 484-492
Employed by Grimes to go to Mexico 420
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1434
Testmonyof 419-438,494,495,501-510,662,663
Johxison, Bussell {$ee aUo "Chapman-Grimes-Conine people," report) 3, 13
AflSdavitof 2180
Agreement with C. M. Cade and others 1243,1274,1287
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telegrams 1417,1418,1420-1422,1424
Johnston, Howell et al. {see also Telegrams) 1445, 1446, 1448
Mortgage 657
Johnston, Willard {see also " Chapman-Grimes-Conine People," report) 3, 13
Agreement with C. M. Cade et al 1244,1274,1287
Deeds to 643,644,646,1245-1249,1275-1285
Deeds, consideration and value of lands bought 1275-1285
Legal guardian of Wah-pe-puck-e 2258
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Telemma 1440
Testmionyof 1274-1285
Jones, Henry C:
Affidavits of 2242
Interpreter 1407,1601
Testimony of 1096-1106
Jones, Maud, deed of 651, 652
Jones, W. A., ( ummissioner of Indian A£fair8. {See Letters; Exhibits.)
XXIV INDBX.
Xiah-ke-ton, Geo. B.: P«M^
Affidaviteof 465,466
Deeds of 646,1126
Interpreter for Grimes 1265
Suits filed by 1 1838-1840
Testimony of 1061-1091
Witness to checks 1091
Witness, certificate on Mexican deed 1122
Klein, QecH 2105
Xo-he-kah-pah-quali, deeds of 651, 652
Kohlenberff, W. C 912
Ko-ke-kaJbu, deed of 652
Ko-ke-tha, affidavit of 2060
Xo-nah-pan-pi-rek, deed of 666
L.
La FoUette, Senator B. M., member subcommittee (see also Loiters) 266
Land Fund. (See Kickapoos.)
Landis, Chas. D., Hon., testimony of 195
Larrabee, C. F., Acting Commissioner Indian Affairs (see also Letters; Tele-
grams; Exhibits) 1643
Telegrams 1420,1440,1441
Lease from Bentley, guardian 2090
Leases Kiokapoo Lands. (See Deeds.)
Leases, list of, to Ives 1479
Lease money. (See Kickapoos.)
Lee Oup-pa-ne:
Deed of 641
Letter and bank notice 912
Lee, O. Q. , affidavit of 2069
Legge, Frederick M., testimony of 465, 466
Letters:
Secretary of State (Root) to Secretary of Interior 2002
Secretary of State (Root) to Senator H. M. Teller 1414
Acting Secretary ol State (Bacon) to Secretary of Interior 60-53, 1999
Acting Attorney-General (McReynolds) to Secretary of Interior 21 34
Acting Attorney-General (Hoyt) to Secretary of Interior : 2160
Acting Attorney-General (Purdy) to Senator M. E. Clapp 299
Acting Attorney-General (Purdy) to John W. Scothom, United States
attorney 299,2182
Secretary of the Interior (Hitchcock^ to Secretary of State 53, 2014
Secretary of the Interior (Hitchcock) to Attorney-General 2014
Secretary of the Interior (Hitchcock) to chairman Committee on Indian
Affairs 2014
Secretary of the Interior (Hitchcock) to Senator R. M. La Follette 51
Secretary of the Interior (Hitchcock) to CommiH.«ioner of Indian Affairs. ... 2013
Acting Secretary of the Interior ^Ryan^ to Secretary of State 53
Acting Secretary of the Interior (Ryan) to Attorney-(ieneral 2015
Acting Secretary of the Interior (Ryan) to Senator H. M. Teller 2014, 2017
Acting Secretary of the Intenor (Ryan) to Commissioner of Indian
Affairs 2009,2115
Acting Secretary of the Interior (Ryan) to Sam Powell 54
American Ambassador to Mexico (Conger) to C. H. Dickson 2197, 2200
American charg^ d'affaires Mexico (Ccwlidge) to Secretary of State 1439
American chaig6 d'affaires Mexico (Coolidge) to Minister Foreign Affairs
Mexico 1439
Commissioner of Indian Affairs f JonesJ to M. J. Bentley . . . 1884, 1885, 1947, 2126
Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Jones) to Senator M. li. Quay 1884
Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Leupp) to Secretary of the Interior 1914,
1918, 1921, 2134
Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Leupp) to Acting Secretary of tlie Interior . 202 J
Commissioner of Indian Affairs ^Leupp^ to Senator M. E. Clapp 1890
Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Leupp) to Senator H. M. Teller 2298, 2300
Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Leupp) to chairman subcommittee of Com-
mittee on Indian Affairs 2303
Oommiiwioner of Indian Affairs (Leupp) to Frank A. Thackery 2006
INDEX. XXV
Iititoni— Continued. Page.
Acting Oommiasioner of Indian Affairs (Larrabee) to Frank A. Thackery . . 2009
Acting Cknnmiflsioner of Indian Affairs (Larrabee) to Secretary of the
Interiiar 52,53,1989,1993,1997,1999,2000
Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Larrabee) to Roman Galan 2131
Rev. Father F. P. Andres to 1889
Aydelotte, J. H., to whom it may concern 1835
Bacon, Robert A. (See Acting Secretary of State.)
Bailey, H. O., to whom it may concern 1833
Beatty, D. M., to J. W. Scothom
Beede, Cyrus, to Secretary of the Interior 1937, 1938, 2039
Bentley,M. J., to Senator H.M. TeUer 29,30,2308
Bentley, M. J., to Senator M. S. Quay 1913
Bentley, M. J., to Cyrus Beede...., 1965, 2043
Bentley, M. J., to Commissioner Indian Affairs 570, 571, 1761, 1947, 2089
Bentley,M. J,, to A. C. Tonner 570,571
Bentley, M. J., to Chester Howe 2120,2121
Bentley, M . J . , to Joe Qark 1559- 15 65
Bentley, M. J. , to I. J. Martell 1563
Bentley, M. J., to J. F. Anderson 1565
Bentley, M. J., to L. A. Hampton 1700,1752
Bentley, M. J. , to John F. Oglesby 2088
Bentley, M. J., to Wah-pe-cha-quah 2210
Boeher, Charles J. (general letter) 1833
Bonnet, John A., to Senator H. M. Toller 29,30
Bonnet, John A., to Secretary of State 2003
Bonnet, W. A., to Senator H. M. Teller (Exhibit 4) 2151
Bonnet, W. A., to Chester Howe 2120,2122,2129
Bioeius, S. M., to Hon. Chas. Curtis ,• 2019
Biosius, 8. M.. to Secretary of the Interior 2020
BuD Bear to W. 8. Field 2308
Cade, C. M., to subcommittee of Committee on Indian A ffairs 1835
Cardenas, Miguel, to L. A. Guajardo 2199
Cardenas, Miguel, to F. V. Llano 2198,2199
Cardenas, Miguel, to governor of Coahuila 590
Chapman, W. L., to First National Bank 482, 483,484
Clark, Joseph, to Senator H. M. Teller 40
Cochrue, R. W. (general letter) 2105
Coolidge, John, G., to Secretary of State 1414,1415
Coolid^e, John G., to Minister Foreign Affairs 1416
Commissioner Indian Affairs. (See Above.)
Conine, R. C, to First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tox 489
Cuppawhe, Lee, to W. C. Kohlenberg 912
Curtis, Senator Charles, to Acting Secretary of Interior ( Ryan) 2019
Deer, Jim, to Chester Howe \... 2131
Dickson, Charles H., to Commissioner Indian A I'fairs 1927, 2182
Dickson, Charles H., to E. H. Conger, ambassador 2201
Dickson, Charles H., to F. A. Thackery 2238
Douglas, W. C, to M. J. Bentley 668
Dow, R. W., to Hon. Henry Terrell 1991
Embry, John, to Attorney-General 2135
Everest, J. H., to M. J. Bentley 1740
First National Bank, Eagle Pa^, Tex., to W. L. Chapman 482, 483, 484
First National Bank, Eagle Paws, Tex., to R. L. Conine 483
Galan, A. G., to Senator 11. M. Teller 1974
(jalan, Roman, to Juan Jose Galan 2150
Gairison, G. W. (general letter) 2106
Griffith. T. J. (general letter) 2107
Guajardo, L. A. (jefe politico), to auxilairy judge, San Francisco 2158
Guajardo, L. A. (lefe politico), to G. A. Outcelt 2153
Harper, Wm. P. (general letter) 2107
Hitchcock, E. A., Secretary of Interior. (See above.)
Howe, Chester, to Secretary of the Interior 406,-2132, 2133
Howe, Chester, to Commiasioner Indian Affairs 2116 2119, 2121, 2122, 2130
XXVt IKDBX.
Letters— Continued. ^•i*-
Howe, Chester, to Commissioner General Land Office 2130
Hubatka, Juhn (general letter) 2107
Jenkins, James E. (inspector), to Secretary of the Interior 21 12
Jolly, John, to Indian Office 1901
Jones, Henry C, to Commissioner Indian Affairs 2241
Jones, W. A. (See Commissioner Indian A£fairs, above.)
Ket-e-qua, to Chester Howe 2120
Kickapoo Council to Senator Teller 27
Klein, Geo. H. (general letter) 2105
La Follette, Senator R. M., to Secretary of State 26, 51
La Follette, Senator R. M., to M. J. Bentley 50
Leupp, F. £. (see also Commissioner Indian A£fairs, above) 1814
Ludlow, E., to M.J. Bentley (Exhibit 17) 48
Mariscal, Igno. ^minister foreign affairs), to John G. Coolidge 1415
Martin, I^ewis A. (American consul, rorfirio Diaz, Mexico), to John A.
Bonnet (vice-consul) 76
Minft, John, to Chester Howe 2116
Mitscher, O. A. (ex-Indian agent) to Senator H. M. Teller 2305
Murdock, Wm., to Chester Howe 2120
Nessler, C. F., to Secretary of the Interior (Report Ex. 38) 2085
O'Brien, M. A. (general letter; Ex. 62) 2106
0-ke-ma to Commissioner, General Land Office 2129
Ostohemburg (Sac and Fox agent) to Lee Cuppawhe 913
Pendleton, W. S., to subcommittee 1833
Pitman, L. G., to whom it may concern 1833
Quay, Senator M. S., to Commissioner Indian Affairs 1913
, JohnT., toG. A. Outcelt 2159
Robitaille, E., to F. A. Thackery 1355,1356
Root, Elihu, Secretarv of State. {See above.)
Ryan, Thos., Acting Secretary of the Interior. (See above.)
Sac and Fox Bank to Lee Cuppawhe 912
Secretary for foreign affairs to department of communication 1415
Scothom, J. W. (United States attorney), to F. A. Thackery 1988
Shawnee Townsite Company to H. Dickson 2240, 2242
Smith, Tom (Ah-na-shaw-to), to superintendent 2159
Speed, Horace, to Charles H. Dickson 2196
Speed, Horace, to F. A. Thackery 2094
Steams, F. P., to whom it may concern 1833
Teller, Senator H. M., to Elihu Root, Secretary of State 1414
Teller, Senator H. M., to R. A. Bacon, Acting Secretary of State 2016
Teller, Senator H . M. , to Attorney-General 2017
Teller, Senator H. M^ to Acting Secretary of the Interior 2016
Thackery, F. A., to Commis«ionor Indian Affairs 1988,
1990, 1991, 1995, 2000, 2004, 2005, 2000, 2008, 200^), 2011, 2012, 2092, 2108
Thackery, F. A., to Assistant CommiBsioner Indian Affairs 2003
Thackery, F. A., to John Embry (United States attorney) 2010
Thackery, F. A., to Merrill E. Gates 2297
Thackery, F. A., to L. C. Grimes 2094
Thackery, F. A., to G. A. Outcelt 1801,2159,2181
Thackery, F. A., to E. Robitaille 1796,1355,1356
Thackery, F. A., to Horace Speed (United States attorney) 2095
Tha-thc-^na to (;<jmmi88ioner General Land Office 2130
We-ha-ni-ha and No-ten to Chester Howe 2152
Wheatley, Arthur C, to Charles H. Dickson 2200
Wheeler, J. H. (general letter) 2106
Whipple, Andrew J., to M. J. Bentley 1564
White, Andrew J., to M. J. Bentley 1565
Wright, D. P. (general letter; Exhibit No. 65) 2106
Zevely, J. W. (special agent), to Secretary of the Interior 1661
Leupp, F. B., Commissioner of Indian Affaiis {see also Ixjtters, etc.):
Letter of, to subcommittee, sworn to (Exhibit No. 174) 2303
Witnesses to be heard suggested (Exhibit No. 173) 2300
Telegrams 1440
XiTD'EX. ZZYII
Uano, V. ▼•! d«0, JndM Kondova distriot, Mexico. {See also TelegramB;
EzhibHs) 1422,1427-1429,1433
Admowledgment of deeds, certificate of 1128,1129
Deedi executed before 3
Oertificale aa to deeds unrecorded 2136,2157
Xk>bo, Alberto:
Interpreter 360
Ex-convict 360
Witness to deed -1122
Loekwood Hafl Bank., telegrams 1449
Logan, J. F., lease 652
liongman, affidavit of 2032
Ludlow, Sduaido 18,19,48
Telepams 1419,1438
Ijyle. JcSinH.:
Homestead, relinquishment of 1768
" ' lof 1571,176^1768
He.
MbOolgaiii Thomaa 1836
XoOomaa (inspected) report mentioned 1581,1688,1690
MeOajf Tltiu, erroneous allotment 658, 1583-1585, 1613, 1614
lloBwen, O. B., affidavit of 2079
XoGoIre, B. 8., Hon. {see also Telegrams) 1440
" "" L (inspector), report of, mentioned 658, 1581, 1613, 1690
^Ctoniieii 2060
> J. W., affidavit of 2083
M.
Xahr-ehe-quali, suit filed by 1838-1840
Xahrka-M-ali:
Deed of 2166
Deed not signed by 430,915,917
Fofged checks 488, 502, 542, 543, 916
Testimonvof 913-920
Xah-ko-qoah:
Deedd 2165
Deed signed by 1026
Testimony 1024-1027
jCah-meh-qua^-ehe (Johnny Mine).
Xahrme-ne-mah, deed of 641
jfah-nali-eali-kali, deed of 657
Xah-qtto-the-eck, deed of 646
If ah-ee tah-ten-no, deed of 653
Xah-eka-ko (Maa-equa-ko):
Deed of 657,1158
Deed not signed by 999
Fornd checks 488,508,543,999
TesUmonyd : 998-1000
Hah-ako-ta-o-tah, deed of 654
Xah-tah-wah, deeds of 647,656
Xah-teck-qtte-net-ne, testimony of 1014-1017
Xali^to-pa-ne:
Deed of 646,647
Deed not signed by 430,820
Fo^ checks 487,507,546,821
Suits filed against 183a-1840
Testimonvof 819-821
lfa-koa-ke.lIajyB.,deed 658
Malaake, John 8:
Deeds 657,1158
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Xanwall, West M., deed 648
xxvin nfDBX.
Marriaee of minon (see aUo Licensee; Kinon): ^^9^
Laws Afifecting 4W, 600, 1224
Testimony concerning 465, 466, 470, 471, 493, 494, 499, 500. 527, 528, 637. 548.
953, 981, 1085, 1086, 1124, 1225, 1226, 1296. 1317, 1318, 1341, 167a>1680
Kaztinf Lewis A. (American consul, Diaz):
Report of , 21-25
Telegrams 25,83,1030,1031
Xa-aharahe (Ha-aka-ahe) 45,46
Deeds of 647
Deeds not signed by 429.1012
Suits filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 1011-1014
Xartha-ke-tha:
Deed of 647-1128
Deed not signed by 430
]I»-then-ne-ah-quah, deed of 642
Maw-ke-puck-e-the :
Deed of 647
Suits filed by 183^-1840
Maxey, J.H 1297
Affidavit of 2080
Deed of 649
Telegrams 1445-1448
Meade, Harrv, testimony of 1360-1366
Mencnaca. Maiiuel, test imony of 451-465
Me-paw-ki-e-quah, deed of 653
Mewjal distillery 1665
Mewjal joint 588
Meah-an-quat, deed of 647
Me-ahe-kah:
Deed of 648
Deed not signed by 429, 86 1
Forged checks 487,506,546,862
Lease to Ives 1479
Testimony of 861,862
Ke-tha-pe-ah (Me-thup-pe-hah):
Deedaof 647,048
Lease to Ives 1479
Mexican police, coercion of Indians by 593, 594, 1745-1749, 1846
Mie-nah, deed of 648,1263,1268
Mills, Manual (MUea):
Deed 651
Lease from 0-que-na-ko-the • , 1 168
Testimony of 1167-1193
Mine, Johnny (Mah-meh-qua-che):
Deed of 646
Letter of 2116
Testimony of 833-839
Minerhet, T. W., telegram 1030
Minor, Mexico, arrest of Indians at 778, 848
Minors. {See Deeds to minors; Marriages.)
MitM^er, O. A 2305
M.K. andT. B. B 1533
Mohawk, Steve:
Deed of 653,1270,1271
I^eaw* money 1414
Mo-ke-ahe. deed of 650
Moore, Calvin S.:
Hearing l)efore Giiajardo 294
Testimony of 153-167, 420, 421
Moore, J. P., testimony of, as to telegrams 1440-1442
Morgan, Qeo. L., testimony as to telegrams 1443-1450
Mortgaffea. {See Deeds; Ix?ases.)
Mott, Albert, allotment of 1599
INDEX. XXIX
]Eiuilir«-iM-n« (ICali-ohe-ne-ne): Pago.
AfBdftvitsof 2061,2248
Oonteflt (rf land 1135-1138
Fkoceedingi at camp of 2235
TeBtimonyjrf 1106 1108
MnlhBiMMi, WnL, affidavit of 2102
Xnxdocik, aenry (Wah-pe-pe-ne):
Affidavit (rf 2J57
Employed by " Chapman-Grimt's-Cuiiine people " 985-986
MoiUBy to secure deeds 985
TMimonyof 985-988
Ifiixdook, WOUe:
Affidavits of 2120
Employed by " CJhapman-Grimcs-Conine people " 936
TeBtmionvof 935-947
Wairmjf T. /., testimony of 495-501
Biua:
I to 421
Agent at {see aUo Telogmius) 1430
Kywzs, J. H.:
Deeds to and from 641,042,640,647,650,652,653,1154,1155
Suits filed against 183&-1840
N.
VadmittntOy Kickapoos (see also KickaiKxis), notes regarding lands of 2201
Hah-ali-elLe-thot (minor):
Affidavit as to age of 465
Deeded 650,953,1271
Deed not signed by 953
Lease of 2090
ICazriage certificate of 1318
Testimony of 952-954
Hah-nali-clii'-Bkin-no-quah ( quo t^ ) :
Deeds of 648
Lease to Ives ; 1479
Testimony of 827,828
Na-mah-che-tha-qua:
Deed of 648
Testimony of 1067-1070
Ha-ni-e-kit, dee<l of 657
Naa-ni-e-to (Nah-e-to):
Deed of 648
Testimony of 720 731
Karanko, General, land of 108
Naah-quat, deed from 1271
Nationial life Insurance Company:
Deed to 046
Suits filed against lS:>ft-1840
Heal, Moses, allotting agent 97, JOOl
Ne-con-o-pit (Ne-con-o-grit and Ne-kah-na-pit):
Affidavits of 2213,2218
Check payable to 399
Deed of 649,2231
Deed not signed by 808
Foiged check 809
Testimony of 867-869
Ne-pah-hah (Ne-pah-pah):
Affidavit of 2235
Deeds of 646,648,649
Testimony of 870
Neeler, O. P. (inspector):
Report of 1647.2085
Ni-ah-ice-pe-ah, deed of 653
irichols, Bnos:
Deeds to 643,646,653
Suits filed against 1838-1840
XXX nroBX.
Noten: P*g«.
Affidavits of 2062,2063,2143,2204,2213,2218
Deed of 648,649,2231
Testimony of 1070-1078
O.
03x1611, H. A., affidavit 2106
Oo-que-nah-ko-the:
Affidavit of 2033,2060
Deed of 647
Leaee 1168
O-ke-xnah (O-ke-ma-aHBozn O-ke-zna-them):
Affidavits of 2064,2072,2077,2143,2203,2212,2217
Deeds of 649,2226,2226
Leases 1479
Letter of 2129
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 83^-861
0-ketch-e-«how-o-2iow, affidavit of 2248
Oklahoma National Bank 1160,1161,1287,1417,1444,1450
Telegrams 1417,1444,1450
Olfervides, Enrique J. (see dUo Telegrams) 1427
O-que-mah-ah-them:
Affidavit of 48
Deeds of 645,649,650
Deeds did not sign 429, 817
Foiged checks 487,606,542,818
Testimony of 812-S19
Outcelt, Gheorge A., assistant United States attorney (ue dUo Lettera; Tele-
grams; Exhibits):
Affidavit of 1830
Arrest and prosecution of Bentley and Indians 312, 318, 322, 326, 326, 349, 383
Assistance of Mexican Government 806, 311
Conduct of, in Mexico 1170, 1484, 1534
1553, 1604, 1631, 1667, 1668, 1669, 1688, 1689, 1745-1747, 1846, 1847
Deeds, fraudulent 343
Deeds, to Bentley 325
Deeds, signing of 314
Guai^o, L. A. —
Hearings before 294
Relations with 315, 316
Indians, trouble with, in Mexico 329,330,335
Indians, camp, visits to 309, 333, 337, 364, 365, 383
Indians, investi^tion of, in Mexico 305
Report of investigation Kickapoo affairs 2136
Telegrams.... 1407
1411, 1416, 1417, 1419-1421, 1423, 1424, 1427, 1429, 1434, 1441, 1997, 2181
Testimony of 297-360,362-^7,398,399
P.
Pah-ah-kah-ne, deeds of 652, 1158
Pah-e-nah:
Deeds of 648,650
Deeds, refusal to sign 429, 798
Forged checks 489, 509, 542
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimon V of 797-799
Pah-kah-tuck, deed of 649
Pah-ka-se, affidavit of 2064
Pah-ka-ton-o-ke, deed of 649
Pah-ke-no (Pah-ko-ne):
Deeds of 644,650
Deeds, did not sign 920, 922
For-ed checks 491,503,541,963,964
Tesumony of 961-964
nrDBX. XXXI
Airakof 137,141
Deedsof 139,650
Deed, lefiinl to sign 147,428
Refeixedto 1519
Sinti filed tniiuit ; 1838-1840
IMimoiiy^ 136^138,140-153,788-792
Palir4iah-k»-tho:
Deed of 654
FonedcfaeckB 491,503,641,642,801
IMbixmyof 799-801
Deedeof 642,650,661,664
Buiti filed aninst 183ft-1840
r^^^dnoajiS 801-803
PtdMslMna-iui^ko-the:
Ainmt of, far aUeeed murder 938
Ooeidoii to sign deeds 948-952
Deeds of 651,652,1168
IMtmonvof 947-962
PehrPah-tiutn-pe tih, (Pe^pea-thep-pea, Pa-pah-se-pa-a):
iCffidaivitof 2148
Deedeof 652
Suili filed against 1838-1840
PaJi pe eck?
Deed of 652
Deed, did not sign 796
Foiged checks 490,503,796
Sditi filed a^dnst 1838-1840
Testbnonvd 795-797
Vthi_pB eh-eihe!
Deedsof 652,655,1168
Smti filed against 1838-1840
Testimony oi 96^-976
PMIlr0*tllOt:
Afildavitiof 31,32
Deed of 656
Power of attorney to Border National Bank 584
Testimony of 439-446
Puurpalirqiieh, deeds of 651,662
P«p2ia-tbo (Pa-no-tha) (Pa-na-the):
Dead Indian, regarding deed of 20,430,1012
Deed of 46,47
PUk-o-wmiaffidavit of 2078
atlMir, Billie (Absentee Shawnee):
AfEkdavitof 2076
Patent issued to 1613
TesdmonTof 1078-1081
loUizui (Absentee Shawnee), patents issued to 1613
P»^»e]Me^ara, aflfidavit of 2064
PazHilMi aAdavit of 2067
Pasli-fllije-qiuiliL deed of 657
FMnunale Savings Bank, suits filed against 1838-1840
PateihJii, O^OiTMy notice of allotment purchase 1557
Patante iMUM to Absentee Shawnecs 1258,1613
PatzickfXiM 1712
Patzisiky Samuel:
Contact with Bentley (lumber) 1164-1167
Testimony of 1164-1167
Paw-kaw-ksA (imbecile Indian) {gee also Imbecile):
Testimony concerning 4, 524, 548, 550, 557, 697, 724, 774, 1204
Deed of r»52, G53, 1143, 1153, 1204
Foraed checks 487,506,545,1178
Dif not sign deed 428
Fictme of 867
Tsstinumyof 867
XXXII INDEX.
Pe-ah-tw7^tuok: P«««-
Affidavit of 2064
Deed of 653
Deed, did not sign 932
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 929-936
Thackery, guardian of 933
Pa-can, Annie:
Affidavit of 49,50
Testimony of 1034^1049
Pe-can, John:
Affidavit of 2066
Testimony of 351-372
Peck-ke-ah-pe-ah:
Deed of 652
Deed, did not sign 1029
Suits filed 1838-1840
Testimony of 1027-1031
Pedro Blanco ranch 98,
107, 127, 150, 187, 197, 4^18, 450, 471-476, 588, 597, 599, 1184. 1726. 1727
Pemberton, J. H.:
Leaao 647,650,655
Suits filed against 183iM840
Pem-e-pah-hone-ah-quah:
Affidavit of 2101
Deeds of 653.1264
Deeds, refusal to sign ^ 428, 864
Forged checks 488,509,544,864,865
Proposition K. E. Hood for appraisement 1128
Subcommittee notifies Hood not to make deed 1128
Testimony of 864,865
Testimony relative to deed 1129
Pem-e-tum-wah:
Deed of 653
Testimony of 865-867
Pem-me-ton, affidavit of 2064
Pendleton, W. S., affidavit of 1834
Pen-e-tho, Mary:
Note of l^entley to 2240
Suit a).minst Bontley 1600. IGIO, 1075, 1GH4, 1707-1709, 1735, 2240
Penrose, Boia, Senator, resolution of 1883
Penaoneau, Edwin 1758,1759,1760
Pe-qua:
Afiidavit of 2239
Contest of allotment 1135-1138
Deed of 654
Deed, did not sign 743
Forged checks 603, 545
Suits filed against 183^1840
Testimony of 740-746,788
Perjury, interjireters 6, 13, 1147
Perkins, Abiel J., lease 643
Perkins, L. J., leane 643
Pesh-she-quah, d(?ed 653
Pettigrew, B. F., ex-Scnat. r:
Statement of 1842
Testimony of 1976-1978
Phelps, E. O., allulavit of 2068
Pipher, L. J.:
Ixjase to 2090
Suits filed 2092
Pipher, Oscar, deeds to 1252
Pis-ko-nah-ah, deed of 654
Pitman, L. O., affuhivit of 1833
Pratt, A. S. & Sons {fife also TelegruMH) 1440
Pro^essive Kickapoos {tu also K ickap<x)s) 2036
INDEX. XXXIII
Puok-ke-Bhin-no (minor): Ftge.
Affidavit as to age of 466
Deed of , 664,981
Statement of 2 1 46
Suite filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 980-984
Pmn-y-tuzn-moke:
Deeds of 139,250
Deeds, refusal to sign 428,755
Checks forced 489,509,542,756
Suits filed by 1838-1840
Testimony of 753-758
Puxdy, D. K., Acting Attorney-General. {See Letters.)
Py-i^tno (minor):
Affidavit as to age 466
Deed of 654
Deed signed by 427
Py-yo-kah (MiUie Stevens):
Deed of 654
Deed not signed by 1020, 1021
Testimony of 1019-1021
Qua-to-qua:
Affidavit of 465
Deed of 643,655
Deed signed by 426, 1050
Marriage certificate of («ee aUo Marriages) 1318
Testimony of 466-469
Quay, M. S., Senator 1402, 1913
Qneairne-po-that, allotment of 1701-1703
R. ,
Bama^ier, Wm. F.:
Affidavit of 2070
Deeds to 1252
BataOiff, Peter 1481
Beed, F. B., affidavit of 1834
BaUxiauiahxzient of homestead, John Lyle 1768
BepoA of subcommittee 3-14
Baaolutioxui under which investigation made 15, 419
B— oliition of inquiry concerning patents 1883
Bestiietiona:
Legislation concerning 16
Testimony concerning 298,1378,1527,1607,1647
Bioa, Carlos (ue alto Telegrams) 1427
Bitvas, Ignado («« alw Telegrams) 1422,1428,1431
Bobertson. J. W.:
Affidavit of 2051
' Account with Indians 2051
Bobartson, S. B., affidavit of 2193
BoWtaila, B., in re Spyebuck 1355-1356
Bodkajr, Parry:
Induai leases 1566
Stslementof 1703
TeiOmonyof 1566-1570,1572-1576
Bodzl(|aaa, Joaquin {bu also Telegrams) 1422-1425
Boot. BUhu, Secretary of State. (See Letters.)
Baby, J. W 1160
Bfaay Thomas, Acting Secretary of the Interior. {See Letters.)
S.
Mbinaa, Mexico, arrest of Indians at 76,
135, 167, 168, 534, 714, 777, 783, 787, 789, 847, 958, 959
L Fox Indians, testimony regarding 1104
ZZXIY INDEX.
Ban Frandaeo Ranch: Piaf*.
Teetimony concerning 148, 453, 457-464,
510, 514, 553, 554, 567,582,583,610,027, 669, 692, 710, 785. 851, 899,
1076, 1461, 1465, 1531, 1601, 1602, 173G-1738, 1788-1791, 1799, 2162, 2199
Title to 582,683,1461
Santos, A. J. ^San Francisco judge):
Alleged bri oery of 1670
WitnesB on fraudulent checks 484-491, 502-505, 509, 696, 727, 1790, 1791
Sehram, Sidney^ affidavit of 2078
Schmidt, E. H. ($ee alio Telegrams) 1417,1420,1433
Testimony of 476-492,604,629-635
Scothom, J. W. (tee also Telegrams; Letters) 1420, 1429, 1720, 1721, 2181
Search, W. L.:
Affidavit of 2074
Deed from Spyebuck 1367
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 1341-1349
Shafter, John A., testimony of 445-451
Shawnees, Absentee (Big Jim band) 2036
Desire to go to Mexico 1712
Patents issued 1613
Shawnees (White Tiurkey band), in re contract 2037
Shawnee, Dudley H.:
Affidavits of 2027,2028,2066
Pay as interpreter 2089
Testimony of 637-641
Shawnee, Eva (Absentee Shawnee), patent issued to 1613
Shawnee, Okla., testimony taken at 91^1617
Shawnee National Bank {see also Banks; Telegrams) 1367, 1449
Shawnee State Bank, transactions of Hood with 1123
Shawnee Townsite Company in re allotment 1392, 1817
Shawnee, Walter SL:
Affidavit of 2026
Patent issued to 1613
Shawnee, William, affidavits of 2029,2069,2079
Shawneego, Birdie (Absentee Shawnee), patent issued to 1613
Shepherd, L. K. &0o. (telegrams) 1444
She-wah-kah, deed of 656
Shincis, Francis, patent issued to 1613
Si-ka-way (Cigar), patent issued to 1613
Ske-ne-tho-pe:
Deed of 666
Testimony of 828,829
Skip-ah-kah-ko-the, deed of 644
Slayden, James L., Hon.. testimony of 71-73,1969,1970
Slover, A. P., notice of allotment 1817
Slover, O. H., notice of allotment 1817
Smith, Harry, deed from 1268
Smith, Buben W.:
Deed to 642
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Smith, Tom (Ah-nah-sha-wa-to-):
Affidavits of 30,31,34,44,46,2160
Checks forged 486,505,506,546,647,748
Deeds of 295,642-648
Deeds not signed by 748
Suits filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 745-753,829-833
Snake, John, interpreter, testimony of 1115
Snakeman, testimony of 1112-1115
Solomon, William, contest of allotment 1768-1775
Southwestern Loan Association 1 156
Speed, Horace, United States attorney {see also letters) 2094, 2196
Spybuckf Alice:
Deed of 1357
Letter regarding land of 1365
INDEX. XXXV
PMre
Spybuck, Jennie, patent issued to 1613
l^iyback, John:
Deed of 1367,1588,1608,1609
Letter rmrding lands of 1355,1366
Notice ofpower of attorney 1355, 1356
Patent issued to 1613
Btaebler, AL ($eeaUo Letters) 2101
State National Bank (see aZ<o Banks; Telegrams) 1243,1248
Money to be paid on delivery of deed 1576
Telegrams 1440
Steams, F. P. , affidavit of 1939
Steve Mohawk, deed of 653,1257
Stevenik Millie (Py-yo-kah):
Deed, not signed by 1620,1021
Testimony of 101^1021
Stone Orifl, testimony of 493,494
Stroud State Bank 1381
Snits filed against various persons ^ 1838-1840
Sweeney, B. W.:
Affidavit of / 40-42,2080
Deed to • 646
Suits filed fiiidnrt.. ......... ... .'.!!!!!!!!!!!!!.!!.!!!!!!!!!!.!"'.!! i838-i840
Testimony of 95-135,140,141
Sweeney, W. W., suits filed against 1838-1840
Switch littleax, affidavit of 2031
T.
TaMart, inspector, report of, quoted 1691
Tah^o-me , d eed of 651
Tah-nah-ke-ah (Tah-na-the-hah):
Deed of ^ 655
Statement of 2238
Suits filed against 1838^1840
Tah-pah-i^e:
ubeck of, drawn by Ka-kah-che 509
Checks forged 488, 509, 544, 965
Deeds of 655,656,1717
Deeds, not signed by 427, 964
Suits filed 1838-1840
Statement of 2143
Testimony of 964-966
Tah-pah-the-a (Ta-pa-thea) :
Affidavit of 2214,2237
Deeds of 655,1178,1179,2229,2230
Suits filed against... 1838-1840
TarM-hah:
Deed of 655
Suit filed against 1838-1840
Ta>pah-ehe, affidavit of 2146
Tarnarty, Kartin, patent issued to 1613
Teal, B. 8. (telegrams) 1427
Telegrama:
Telegrams referred to in report of subcommittee 8, 9, 12
Telegrams, letters regarding 1414, 1415, 1416, 1439
TeUfframs to and from certain persons^ as follows:
Adams, Joe M. —
» To J. C. Benson 1445
Prom C. J. Benson 1448
To A. T. Brown 1445
From A. L. Chapman 1446
To L. C. Grimes 1449
From L. C. Grimes 1449
To J. H. Maxey, jr 1445, 1446, 144S
From J. H. Maxey, jr 1445, 144<A, \AA\k
Agent, Muzquiz, Mexico, to T. M. MineUcvrl ^^N^^^"^
27818S. Doc. 215, 60-l--vol Z BO
ZZXVI IKDXZ.
Telmrani*— Oontfamed. P«<«*
AlezAndar, Tony—
ToO. J. Benaon 1444
IVom 0. J. Benaon 1148, 1436, 1448
ToO. J. Brown 1436
ToA. T.Brown 1444
To First National Bank, Eagle Paaa, Tex 1436
To L. C. Grimes 1436,1437
Ftom L. C. Grimes 1436, 1437
Bacon, Robert, Assistant Secretary of State, to American consul 83
Benaon, C. J.—
To Joe M. Adama 1448
¥Vom JoeM. Adams 1445
To Tony Alexander • 1148,1436,1448
From I'ony Alexander 1444
From A. T. Brown 1430
ToW. L. Chapman 1145
From W. L. Chapman 1146
ToR. C. Conine 1445
To First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 1445
From First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 1436
ToL. C. Grimes 1436
FromL. C. Grimes 1436
To L. M. Shepherd A Co 1444
Bentley, Ida V., to Martin J. Bentley 142V
Bentley, Martin J.—
From Ida V. Bentley 142V
ToW. A. Bonnet 1438
Ftom Senator M . E . Clapp 1418
From W. C. Douglas 38,39,1430
ToE. P. Emey • 209,1430,1438
From E. P. Emey 38, 1430, 1437, 1438
ToW. S. Field 1438,1630
FromW.S. Field 38
ToW. W.Ives 1445,1447
FromW. W. Ives 1446
To Senator H. M. Teller 26, 27, 1630
Benton, N. (H.), to George H. Graham 1449,1450
Bonnet, John A. (vice-consul), to Louis A. Martin (conaul) 26, 1430, 1431
Bonnet, W. A., from M. J. Bentley 1438
Brown, A. T.—
Ftom Tony Alexander 1435, 1444
ToC. J. Benson 1430
ToM. P.Brown 1427
To R. C. Brown 1448
ToW. L. Chapman 1421,1424,1432,1443,1444
From W. L. Chapman ! 1422, 1424, 1430, 1432, 1443
To R. C. Conine 1418, 1426, 1431, 1433, 1436, 1446 to 144V
From R. C. Conine 1426, 1427, 1431, 1444, 1446
To Firet National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 1417,1418
To John Garrett 1446, 1447
From John Garrett 1446, 1447
From L. C. Grimes 1418
To Russell Johnson 1417
From Russell Johnson 1417
To Oklahoma National Bank 1417
To 0. A. Outcelt 1418
FromE. H. Schmidt 1417
Brown, C. J., from Tony Alexander 1436
Brown, M. P., from A. T. Brown 1427»
Brown, R. C, from A. T. Brown 1448
Brown A Chapman—
To R. C. Conine 1436,1446,1447
To John Garrett 1446, 1447
nSTDEX. XZZVII
Telefl:xazns--Contmiied. Pac«-
Cardenas, Miguel—
To Amaranto Falcon 1421
To Amaranto Falcon 1421
To L. A. Guajardo 1420,1426
Prom L. A. Guajardo 1420,1422,1423,1425,1429,1433
Prom P. Valdee Llano 1422
To G. A. Outcelt 1419
From G. A. Outcelt 1419
OMtellanos, Enrique G. —
To Lie. Julio Galindo....: 1420,1421
From Lie. Julio Galindo 1420,1421
Chapman, A. L. —
To Joe Adams 1446
FromR. C. Conine \ 1447,1448
Chapman, W. L. —
To C.J. Benson 1145,1422,1424,1432
From C.J. Benson 1146
ToA. T.Brown 1430,1443
FromA. T.Brown 1421,1424,1432,1443,1444
ToR. C.Conine 1431,1432,1448,1450
From R. C. Conine 1148,1435,1442,1447,1448
To First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 481, 1427, 1432
From First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 1432
PromL. C. Grimes 1436
To J. Valdee Llano 1433
Prom Russell Johnson 1422
Clapp, Senator M. E., to M. J. Bentley 1418
Clark, Joe-
To Mark Goode 1437
From Mark Goode 1437
To George Graham 1423,1424
Prom George Graham 1424
Commissioner of Indian Affairs —
To F. A. Thackery . . . . 1420, 1440, 1441, 1990, 1991, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2012
From F. A. Thackery 1440-1443,1630,2012
From Mark Goode 1439
Conine, Carmen —
ToR. C.Conine 1433,1434
FromR. C. Conine 1431,1434
To G. A. Outcelt 1419,1423
From G. A. Outcelt 1419,1423
Conine, R. C. —
FromC. J. Benson 1445
ToA. T.Brown 1426,1427,1431,1444,1446
From A. T. Brown 1418, 1426, 1431, 1433, 1436, 1446-1449
To Chapman & Brown 1148, 1435, 1436, 1442, 1444, 1445-1449
To W. L. Chapman 1431,1432,1448
To Mrs. R. C. Conine 1433,1434
To First National Bank, E. P 1436
To John Garrett 1444,1445,1449
From John Garrett 1435,1444
ToR. J. Garza 1449
ToL. C. Grimes 1444
PromL. C. Grimes 1418,1432
To L. A. Guajardo 1418,1423,1425,1428
From L. A. Guajardo 1426
To Russell Johnson 1424
From Russell Johnson 1418,1424
ToF. V.Llano 1427,1429,1433
FromF. V.Llano 1432,1433
To George A. .Outcelt 1434
From Georee A. Outcelt 1434
To Carlos Rios 1427
To Joacj u in G . Rodriguez 1422, 1424
. To Ed Smith (Schmidt) 1433
ToB. S. Teal ^^a:v
XXXVin INDBX.
Telemun*— Continued.
Dou^iM, W. 0.— PM*-
Tom. J. Bentley 38,1430
ToL. A. Guajardo 1430
Blkonda, A. L., to G. A. Outcelt 1434
(Embry, John) United States attorney —
To G. A. Outcelt 1429
Prom G. A. Outcelt 1429
Bmev, E. P.—
To M. J. Bentley 38,39,1430,1437,1438
Prom M. J. Bentley 209,1430,1438
To W.S. Field 1437
Filcon, AmHrJnto -
To Mi^rn p1 < arrtenflH 1421
From Miguel t ardenaa 1421
To L. A. Guajardo.. 1428
From L. A. Guajardo 1422
Field, W. S.—
Prom M. J. Bentley 39,1428,1630
Prom E . P. Emey 1 437
First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex.—
From Tfjny Aiexiuiuir 1436
PromC. J. Benson 1446
From A. T. Brown 1417,1418
ToW. LChapaian..,, 1432
Prom W, L- Chniiman 481,1427,1432
Prom R, C. Coniiuv 1436
Prom RuflW'U Jobnsou. , 1417
From Oklahoma Natiunal Bank 1444, 1460
To Union Saving Hank. , 1447
From Union Sa% inga Bank 1446-1449
Galan, C, to L. A. Guajardo 1427
Oalan. Roman, from F-fwin T.n-ll-^w 1438
GaUnQo, Julio-
To KnHfiue G. OastellanoB 1420,1421
Ftom Enrique C. Caatellanoe 1420, 1421
Gar<?La, Col. F., tntm Erasmo Herrcra 1428
Garr«*tt, John—
ToA. T. Brown 1446,1447
From A. T. Hruwn 1447
To R. C. Conine 1436, 1437
FromR. C Conine 1444,1446,1449
Prom Matiirttamttt 1460
ToL. C. Gri[iir«. ,.., 1435,1436
From L r Cjnmfn 1436-1437
Prom J. H. Maxey, jr 1447
Garrett, Mattie, to John Garrett 1450
Garza, R. J., from R. C. Conine 1449
Goode, Mark —
ToJoeGark 1437
Prom Joe Clark 1437
To Georgt? V ( mttiuM i 1449
To P. A Thackery 1442
From P. A. Thackery 1441 , 1442
To CommWoHLr Innian Affairs 1439
Graham. George F.—
TofL BeuU)n 1449,1450
T.>,yrH. ri.,.v . 1424
From Joe aark 1423,1424
From M.J. Goode 1449
Grimes, L. C. —
To Joe M. Adams, jr 1449
From Joe M. Adams, jr 1449
To Tony Alexander 1436, 1437
From Tony Alexander 1436, 1437
To C. J. Benson 1436, 1436
Fivm C. J. Benson 1436
IKDEZ. XXXIX
Mle^;Tam»— Continued. P«fl«-
Gnmee, L. 0. — Continued.
To A. L.Brown 1418
ToW. L. Chapman 1636
To R.C.Conine 1418,1432
PromR. C. Conine 1444
To John Garrett 1434,1436,1436
Prom John Garrett 1434,1436
To Mrs. L. C. Grimes 1434
ToJ.R. Jacobs 1436,1443
FromJ. R.Jacobs 1434,1443
From Mack Johnson 1434
To Russell Johnson 1417
Prom Russell Johnson 1421,1424
To F. A. Thackery 1430
From F. A. Thackery 2004
Quajardo, L. A. —
To Miguel Cardenas 1420,1422,1423,1425,1429,1433
From Miguel Cardenas 1420,1426
ToR. C. Conine 1426
From R. C. Conine 1418,1423,1426,1428
FromW. C. Douglass 1430
To Amaranto Falcon 1422
Prom Amaranto Falcon 1428
FromC. Galan -. 1427
FrmnF. Valdee Llano 1428
To E.Ludlow 1419
PromE. Ludlow 1419
To G. A. Outcelt 1421
Prom G. A. Outcelt 1419,1421,1427
ToIgnadoE. Rivas 1422,1431
From Ignacio E. Rivas 1428
To Joaquin Rodriciiez 1423
Prom Joaquin Rodriguez 1422,1423,1426
Herrm. Erasmo, to Col. F. Garcia 1428
Ives, W. W.—
To M. J. Bentley 1446
From M. J. Bentley 1446,1447
Jacobs, J. R. —
ToL. C.Grimes 1434,1443
FromL. C. Grimes 1436,1443
Johnson, Mack, to L. C. Grimes 1434
Johnson, Russell —
ToA. T.Brown 1417
From A. T. Brown 1417
ToW. L. Chapman 1422
ToR. C. Conme 1418,1424
FromR. C. Conine 1424
To First National Bank 1417
ToL. C.Grimes 1421,1424
FromL. C. Grimes 1417
ToG. A. Outcelt 1420
Johnston, Willard, to B. S. McGuire, M. C 1440
Johnstone, Howell J., et al. —
To C.J. Benson 1446
ToA. T.Brown 1446
To J. Harvey Maxey 1445,1446,1448
Larrabee, C. F., to F. A. Thackery 1420,1440,1441
Leupp, F. E., toF. A. Thackery 1440
Llano, F. Valdee—
To Miguel Cardenas 1422
FromW. L. Chapman 1433
ToR. C.Conine 1432,1433
From R. C. Conine 1427,1429,1433
ToL. A. Guajardo 1428
To Enrique J. Olfervidas 1427
xun
Bwdii.
,J.W^Bfii<isnd[I if MES&.JV7
.fcea^i 4«r,ia»
ma
jSfiir Ilfo IiHiu^fae.j
, X. m^ MffiffawjB ^
3b:^3
f5-46 2I&-2K:. *ec-^j«: . «7». f«ft isnTX ;
J-ifSaar ._
. vafiimoET i£ «
j5« i&Kif Sosptnxwf
lUwuiAmtriiMij •oaagiici imzc
x&tdrrda i£. 2MB
intes:, vscizDairr if ^ ^EM3%
'^CfmusB _ ®71,373*
-,^^.„ -«j.CLia.-4a^.7m:?ffi-fiir^«i,M»
Bwfl- _ „ - <Si
•OenafiBafc ff laffe- JSii
1. X^ 'fcesmmmx if. _ STI-Jll^i
]|L y^ MHite*^B ... ■ . , ■ .^
. JL9 jcfiiSirrj: \£. .
o
XL INDBZ.
Telegrams— Continued. Page.
Lockwood, N. B., to Shawnee National Bank 1449
Ludlow, Edwin (Kduardo) —
To Roman Galan 1438
ToL. A. Guajardo 1419
From L. A. Guajardo 1419
McGuire. B. S., from Willard Johnston 1440
Martin, Louis (American consul) —
From Robert A; Bacon, Assistant Secrteary of State 83
From John A. Bonnet 26
Maxey, J. H., jr. —
To JoeM. Adams 1445,1446,1448
From Joe M. Adams 1445,1446,1448
To John Garrett 1447
From Howell J. Johnstone 1445,1446,1448
Minerhet, T. W., to agent, Muzquiz, Mexico 1030
MuzQuiz, Mexico, agent at, from T. W. Minerhet 1030
Oklanoma National Bank —
From A. T. Brown 1417
To First National Bank 1444, 1450
Olfervides, Enrique J., from F. Valdes Llano 1427
Outcelt, George A. —
From A. T. Brown 1423
To Miguel Cardenas 1419
From Miguel Cardenas 1419
To R. C. Conine 1434
FromR. C. Conine 1434
To Mrs. R. C. Conine 1419, 1423
From Mrs. R. C. Conine 1419, 1423
Ftom A. L. Elizondo 1434
To (John Embry) United States attorney 1429
From (John Embry) United States attorney 1429
To L. A. Guajardo 1419,1421,1427
From L. A. Guajardo 1421
From Russell Johnson 1420
ToJ. W. Scothom 1420,1429,2181
To Ed Schmidt 1420
To F. A. Thackery 1407 to 1411, 1416, 1417, 1419, 1429, 1440, 1997
From F. A. Thackery 1408 to 1410, 1416, 1417, 1424, 1441
Pratt, A. S., & Sons, from State National Bank 1440
RioB, Carlos, from R. C. Conine 1427
Rivas, Ignacio E. —
To L. A. Guajardo 1428
FromL. A. Guajardo 1422,1431
Rodriguez, Joaquin G. —
F?omR. C. Conine 1422,1424
ToL. A. Guajardo 1422,1423,1426
From L. A. Guajardo 1423
Schmidt, £. H.—
To A. T. Brown 1417
FromR. C. Conine 1433
From G. A. Outcelt 1420
Scothom, J. W., from Q. A. Outcelt 1420, 1429,2181
Shawnee National Bank, from N. B. Lockwood 1449
Shepherd, L. M., db Co., from C. J. Benson 1444
State National Bank, to A. S . Pratt A Sons 1440
Teal, B. S., from R. 0. Conine 1427
Teller, Senator H. M., from M. J. Bentley 26,27,1630
Thackery, F. A.—
To (3ommisBioner of Lidian Affairs 1441,
1442, 1443, 1630, 1990, 1992, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2012
From Commissioner of Indian Affairs 1420, 1440, 1441
ToMarkGoode 1441,1442
From Mark Goode 1442
ToL. C. Grimes 2004
FromL. C. Grimes 1430
ToO. F. Lanabee 2002
IKDEX. XXJ
TelegraznB — Continued.
Thackery, F. A. — Continued. Page.
From C. F. Larrabee ^ 1420,1440,1441
FromF. E. Leupp r. 1440
To G. A. Outcelt 1408,1410,1416,1417,1424,1441
From G. A. Outcelt 1407-1411, 1416, 1417, 1419, 1429, 1440, 1S»7
Union Savings Bank —
To First National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex 1446-1449
From Firet National Bank, Eagle Pass, Tex , 1447,1448
' United States attorney (Embry) —
To G. A. Outcelt 1429
From G. A. Outcelt 1429
Teller, H. K., Senator, chairman subcommittee (m6 also Letters; Telegrams). . 26,
27, 1414, 1630, 2016, 2017
Teat, Elizabeth, affidavit of 2237
Thackeiy, Frank A., superintendent and special disbursing agent for Shaw-
nees, Pottawatamies, and Elickapoos {see also Letters; Telegrams; Exhibits):
Affidavit of 2236
Agreement with Five Civilized Tribes 1586
Allotments, investigation of 1406
Application for appointment legal guardian of Kickapoos 1605
Bentley, arrest of 1402,1413
Bentley, char^ agdnst 1581
Bentley, relations with 1400, 1404
Conine, employment of , as interpreter • 399,400
Drunkenness of Indians 1410,1411
Erroneous allotments, report of 1582-1586
Exhibit No. 168, funds paid to Indians 1610-2249
Funds paid to Indians • 1610, 2249
Grimes, notice to, not to remove Indians to Mexico 1591, 1600, 2004
Grimes, trouble with 1404
Guardian of Pe-ah-twy-tuck 933
Guardian for certain Indians, list of 2296
Injimction against removal Kickapoos to Mexico 1591
Interference with Indians removing Mexico 1400-1403, 1579-1582, 1598, 1600, 1606
Indian camp, at 1411,1413,1603
Indians induced to go to Mexico 1400-1406
liease money (ueaUo Kickapoos) 1413,1414
Letters (»«« aI»o Letters; Exhibits) 1356,1356,1796
McComas, report of. quoted 1686
Patents, delivery of trust 1586-1588, 1613
Spybuck, John, regarding land of 1355,1356,1608,1609
Suit brought against Ives by 1398
Telegrams {su also Telegrams) 1407-1411, 1416, 1417, 1419, 1420,
1424. 1429, 1430, 1440-1443, 1630, 1990, 1992, 1997-1999, 2002, 2004, 2012
Telegrams, explanation of 1604
Testunonyof 1399-1414,1579-1613,1950-1964,1966-1969
Testimonv of, quoted 1627
Tharp, Oharue, contest of allotment 1135-1138
niarp, Hiram, contest of allotment 1135-1138
Thi-tlie-quab. (minor):
Affidavit as to age of 466
Affidavits of 2216,2220
Deeds of 654,2227,2228
Statement of 2144
nio-kah-qua-muck, deed of 649
niompson, Omer, lease 643
Ticer , C. L.,deedof 658
Timmons, J. W., suits filed against 1838-1840
Timxuona, Bichard A., affidavit of 2071
Toxmer, A. C, Assistant Commissioner Indian Affairs, letter from M. J. Bent-
ley 570,571
Treaties. {See Kickapoos.)
Trust agrreements. {See Bentley, Ida V.; Bentley, M. J.; Ives, W. W.;
Kickapoos.)
Tyner, Charles (Absentee Shawnee), patent issued to 1613
XLH INDEX.
U.
Union Savings Bank (tee abo Banks; Telegrams) 144&-1449
United States, suits brought by, against various persons 183^1840
United States attomev (Embry ) , (see also Telegrams) 1429
Value of lands procured from Indians 1149,1150,
1206, 1246-1248, 1262, 1267, 1259, 1270, 1271, 1276-1285,
1307, 131^1317, 1333, 1390-1396, 1464r-1478, 1681-1683, 1717
W.
Wah-ko-quah:
Deed of 666
Suit filed by 1838-1840
Wah-nah-ke-hah, deed of 667
Wah-nah-ke-tha-hah:
Deeds of... 666,2232
Deeds, refusal to sign 808,809
Statement of 2144
Testimony of 806-812,2203,2212,2218
Wah-pe-ohe-qua:
Arrest of 922,1669
Deed, not signed by 924
Speech of, at Indian camp 2244
Statement of 1720
Treatment of 1659
Testimony of 920-929
Wah-pe-^e-qua-qoah:
Deed of 666
Deed, refusal to sign 427, 956
Lease to Ives 1479
Suit filed against 1838-1840
Testimony of 964-961
Wah-pah-he-ho-quah:
Affidavit of 32,33
Lease to Ives 1479
Wah-pah-ho-ko (Wah-pah-ko-ko):
Deeds of 647,649,666
Deed, not signed by 747, 906
Lease to Ives 1479
Testimony of 902-910
Wah-pah-so-se (Wa-pe-sos, Wah-paw-sose, Waw-pah-sose) :
Account, Geo. F. Graham 1621
Checks, foi^ 490
Deed of 648,650
Deed, refusal to sign 427
Wah-pe-ke-che :
Deed of 645
Testimony of 1017-1019
Wah-pe-nah-qua-no-quah, deed of 666
Wah-pe-pe-ne (Henry Kurdook), testimony of 986-998
Wah-pe-pah, testimony of 1092-1096
Wah-pe-tuok (Emma Garland) w 687,622,624
Lease to Hampton 1194
Wah-puok-we-che:
Affidavits of 2143,2214,2219
Deed of 666,667
Deed, refusal to sign 805
Testimony of 803-806
Wah-sko-tah:
Affidavit of 43,44,2239
Deed of 643,667,1168
Deed, refusal to sign 427
Suits filed by 183ft-1840
Wah-theck-ko-nah-hah (Wath-e-co-na, Wath-theok-kona), Intrepreter:
Affidavit of 2148
Deed of 657
Testimony of 690-719,731-733
INDEX. XLIII
Wah-we-ah: Page.
Deed of 667
Testimony of 887-888
Waahington, Thomas, affidavit of 2032
Wayne, J. W., affidavit of 1624,2077
Waw-paw-naw-ke-sheno-quali, deed of 647, 1569
We-ah-che-ka:
Deed of 663.663
Lease to Ives i479
Promissory note 1674
We-ah-no-hone-wah-ali, deed of 642
Wo-hah-m-hah, deed of 668
Waller, John C:
Interpreter 627-629
Testimony of 511-620
We-sko-peth-o-que. {See Effie Douglas.)
We-ta-mote (We-ta-nxath-o-tha):
Deed of 668
Power of attorney to Border National Bank 584
Testimony of : 872,873
Wheeler, J. H., affidavit of 2106
Whipple, Andrew J., letter 1664
Whipple, Joe (Interpreter):
Affidavit of 2072,2073
Testimony of 85-96,293-297,966-967,979,980,2072,2073
White, Andrew J., letter 1664
White, Charley, testimony of 1108-1112
White Turkey band (/S66 a2«o Shawnees) 2038
WUbarger'a Tndian depredations, extract from 1905
Wild, Oscar, affidavit of 2248
Willett, Walter, testimony of 471-476
Williams, Solomon, land contest 1671, 1770
"Wolves" 40,41,81,618,780,793,817,830,1090
Wood, H., affidavit of 2084
Woods, J. H.:
Deed 660
Certificate of title 2241
Worcester, Geo. B., testimony of 271-274
Worth, Tonley (Shawnee), patent issued 1613
Wright, D. P., affidavit 2106
Youngs, Geo. M., affidavit of 2076
Z.
Zevely, J. W. (special inspector), report of 1661
o
Mm Cci«Gi:£S& n SENATE. « Doccwat
TREATY STIPULATIOXS WITH KICKAPOO INDIAXi
Mr. BsAJTDEii^CE pnttiwtai dK fo9knr5zt^
7AIBS HSLATHPG XO THB HZIX Su 4735 TO FUI..FILX. TX£ATT
SUTZTLATIOXS of THS TREATT of JUWE, 2& l;M2. AXD OTHZK
TK2ATT AfiBKKMiiJiTS WITH THB XICKAPOO mOABS.
rAJTT iSi. J I*:*?: — ^trdtmd io t* jraaad.
UyiTE» States SE>*iTt,
S:.'.-: -- : .'- : Jo:,:-:^-./.*!;- Ln-riii^ und^r <:anri3*T»tki!L lib*- v:J] • >- 47-1;^ » to
T-'j-r «, jf.-.:!;-- 'X-, TL* »r4«>yjrn-.TT.-irt.g» ijii iij« i<o <TC*:ar':c-f:r ii*»r bill
S. 4To'. hZ-i Mr. iL J- I>*BjTl*rr. "irj>o i? pir*s«Li. devji** Vj iL.kk* a
CTR.-, TT h T -R-.T/, To-T rHA:i«ij*fl:it. JL&d if MiT HttiLibtT of lilt cr^iLiEiin**
i^.rrt- :.'.■ Lri: tc.i* jlit q-oesairjcis Lt miD oo so.
gIAT> B}.n or XABTDI J. BEBIXJCT. KEFSESEimG IHB
»KTTrA¥ KICKAFOO IXIIIAB5.
iir. Er^nxT- Mr. OiiLiniaiii .iix>d 2««3!ilwi*eii of ti* occiir.rTr^. pjit-
r:i-:-T::^:.2' --10 « disrrarjr-l-'jci of uLt muMiW oi lifr- i-lniiu of
iLr Mr3;i::fc:. KJ-.£.hi»*'X' Izjlikiis — luwi liJfe b:Il peruiaii Vj i1j*iil' — I d*-
V^T* T-l- rJLT T-Lh-l I "-Jkll**- bfrf<>I% tUfi -aiWr rKKTilIUTJWie tTT^Jr* T*rtlJ^ llig%
V.rT tr*r f-_-v]'y.O IXidinil** 4llid tlr^T HI* Il»d5jlllf -"io. far rWLr/JIl of
;.»?rr"ir::rr-t:T iii,d T«LJi.c'k'Ur*;T jidL*-i»d to iij*r> orlginiJ cniy^.n:* 4iid
S^jLtT'.T P*nii2T»^ T«7 faii*fiJ]T ciyii->'3*-rw3 ilr-zr suudoe. H* =aid
v.- rj*r o*!. c*ij* ocr'Aricttj- ^ YoT::r IiioiAii- Mt licn rwi-dj for ariJizatTioBa
•T-'j;:- iLr Tr:I] rocc -suircraiid tihi«iL Go ai**awi ai>d jprt ti»«iL to msfce
tuizii iLi; d to icuij»r tiie beei of tfaeir rmn^numi when titqr fin, boot
2 TBBATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDUN8.
with the ultima<e view, whon the pressure of the white race gets too
strong, to take them over where they lived part of their lifetime — to
Mexico, where they can again exist as a race." Senator Quay was
a great friend of these Indians and he concurred in that idea and
gave the same advice, as did also Senator Piatt, of Connecticut. The
statement of Senator Pettigi'ew will be found in the record already
made in this case. (Affairs of Kickapoos, p. 1976 and 1977.)
After the time I was appointed agent of these Indians they went
to work; they never had worked bei()re, but they went to work and
planted on'hards and built homes and inclosed their lands, opened
fields and homes, and became prosperous. I fully l)elieve that had I
been permitted to continue with tnem I might have kept them con-
tented, but in 1003 a different policy was acmpted on the part of our
Government. My office was auolished and these Indians were put
under the charge of a l>ondod school simerintendent and a new sys-
tem went into vogue down tliere. The Indians were not looked after
as they thought they should be; their stock was stolen and they were
thrown into prison. They soon became discouraged.
The Chaiuman. Where were they located before they moved to
Mexico ?
Mr. Bentlky. They were located near Shawnee, Okla., on lands
that were allotted to them, part of their original reservation.
Senator Stonk. Who threw them into pris^)n?
Mr. Bkntlkv. The \ocnl authorities imposed on them in every way
because they were Indians. They had no show there. They were
arrested without cause, and went on the chain gang.
The Indians were allotted 80 acres to each Indian, and they were
intermingled with the white men 'down there. We had no redress:
the conditions were intolerable. Bear in mind, now, that they did
not speak any English at that time; there were only two or three in
the tribe who did, and they very imperfectly.
Senator Johnston. How numy are there of them?
Mr. Bkntlky. Hieie are at this time about 225 Indians left of the
Mexican Kickapoo tribe, I think; there may be as many as 240. At
the time they were allotted there were about 30() of them, or a little
more. AI)out 20 were overlooke<l and left homeless.
The CiiAiKMAN. IIow many of those Mexican Kickapoos are there
at the present time?
Mr. Hkntlkv. They are the Indians we are referring to — the Mex-
ican Kickapoo Indians.
The ('iiAiKMAN. You say there are 240 of them?
Mr. liKNTLKv. About that many; yes, sir. As I have stated,
when conditions l)ecanie such at Shawnee that the Indians felt that
they could not exist there any longer I moved them into Mexico at
their solicitation: 1 never urge<l them to go, but did urge them to
stay. Thev, on the contrary, urged me to take them, and, as I have
said, I i\'u\ that under the advice of Senator Quay and Senator
Piatt. Those Senators also said: "This (lovernment owes you money
KuHicient to buy a l)onie over there; you better go over there and select
a location: wc will help you out." During the winter of 11K)G 1 came
before the Senate conimitt(M», as the record will show, and as carefully
and as concisely as possible stated to the committee that we had
found a tract of land on which to make homes for these Indians.
There were 12,000 head of cattle on it; that would be sufficient support
TKEATt ffnPrLATiaSB WITH MEXSCAS KICKAPOO ISTrZASS, 8
for tL^Tn for zll limc< prwriddwl w* w*ere a^j-fcr to a<^ain^ tri*> krii^I and
cjrf.itfr. To 'lo thl* tt was ttw*«BirT to reino'/e thftir rwirifrrJoo^ froot
th*ir lAEtd i& tr^U rif>ijntrv titiat :i mi^t h*t rrjavtertftd into Unyi in
M-r-Tior^. UnfortriT-acelT /or a*, tbit Indian Office and eh* -S^cr^tarr of
th*r Irif.^Hor Terr determin^rilj oppo^ ifaat feci^iat'ton. and aft^r
thft bill was ptk^iaed — I think it wa.* m cncfentni* vwne wt^^r. anytiow
fc^fon^ h wa.^ rii^noed bjr tb^ PreftidftCt — tike a^«it.- of the iMpftrtmenl
wp^nt r*^t into Slexico. aui acrwcnpanrrne them were gambler? and
«a{fi«r>ci m*rn and men of very nnde^rirable character, lli* daj that
the law went into effect remoring: the re?«ri^oc:^ from thftse Indians
«o that rhej miidkt d^ed their land in tmsL, and hare the proeeeKb in-
T^^ifeii in Mexi^^n land ar Coneresf? intende»i* I wa« thrown into
prlron hj an a.*irtant United States attoriMT and held in prscffu as
wrre the trrin/ripal Indian^i of tfc* tribe later.
Ser.^ror JoH3f*rr.?f, Wiat were joa ehar^eed with?
>Ir. BryTixT- The United 5kat«s attomrr had indrMtd an Indian
to '-•^^rrir' :r perjnrj in ^ajin^ that I had a.«?a!ilt«?d hrm with % -ix— hr-ocer
which I ne^er did, and after beinf' held for ax day^ I wa.* a'^rxitted
zrA h.i-i If, lir*T* the conntry by rcAron of ciw-'iitLOct? exiriir^ there,
which T^ro^jstbtj wonH hare ted np to hit mirrder had I remained.
The U:ilr.«j^i Statea attorney then, as I hare ^fL pnt the chief and the
prlr.*':::.ii. men of rhe rnhe In nriroci and helii tfi^m there for day- in*-
p^.rfir'ir.^ them to rell their land to thoee white nwai who came there
w.rh hlr:.!
The CHJLiKSCAsr. What was tbe name of that United States at-
torney ?
Mr. hr.^TLEr, Geof^ A. Ontcelt.
Ty.e CfiAiRMAif, Is he in office now!
Mr. hfssTLET, He is still in fMtyt* T am told.
The CifArrxjix. Do yc« nbean as Uikited States dLatrict attorney?
Mr. KfTjfTunr. Y«*, air.
The CHAzmMAif, Whatt do roa mean when yoa aay that he indneed
an Iniitn r.o perjrrre himself?
Mr. F*E7»TLf:T- That is the testimony of Ae Indian who m-^de this
crj?r,r.!i r.:. at the in^i^ration of the United States attorney. He ti«ti'
fieii before the «r:bcocnminee of the Committee on Indian Affair^ of
the S^r.Are th;it the United Stat«* attorney and one of the land hmr-
er5 ckrr>t to Lim and threatened him with imph>ronment ani^?3s fie
mA'ie the *wom •tatement that I had asawltftd hircL. They wanted
soff.e *:xr^isk to pot me in prL«*>n. Amon^ the Indian* who were
thrown into prLron wa* thi§ one. who* phocoa^raph I hold in mj
h.ini. I do r.oc think there is a finer •pecimen of an Indian on this
conf^inent thin that man wa» before be was thrown into prison at the
iLJitiZ^f'.f^ri of the United States attorney.
' Tr.e rHAiitMAjf. What is h:s name?
Mr. BExri-rr. Wahpah/!fcft^ia.
Senator .Sro^n. He was pist in prison in Mexico?
Mr. Bt5TixT. Yes. sir.
SenAror Stoxe, What is the name of that Tillage?
Mr. BrynxT. Mfizrrriz. Mexico. He refused ro yield to the de-
sire of 'he United .Stat^ attorney and persL^ed rn rv^f - riir "o vl^
anj p^ir.-er- with regard ''o hL? I*nd. cr to permit hr.r r.-**M,k ro do so.
and then he was compelled to carry roi-ic* oii; hi* rh-'j* • II'^t in *«cks
under the tropical son of Mexico and the reaauit was that the injnry
4 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
to his shoulder from that caused him to be paralyzed. When he
appeared before tlie subcommittee of the Senate last November lie
stated ^^ Half of me is now dead." His arm hangs as helpless by his
side as a piece of wood.
Senator Stone. Who is that?
Mr. Bentley. This same Indian whose photograph I hold in my
hand, and the man who committed the worse than murder of that
man, leaving him a helpless cripple and broke him down in the prime
of his life is still in office as an officer of the United States Govern-
ment. I desire to say to the committee fuilher that had these Gov-
ernment officials stayed away^ the Kickapoos would have acquired a
ranch and cattle, an estate m Mexico that would have supported
them for all time to come. We would have realized al)out $.*J50,000
for the Oklahoma lands. The Indians represented by me and some
of them who appeared before the Senate committee for themselves,
stated that they would not squander the money received from the
sale of this land, but that every dollar of it would go into Mexican
land, and notwithstanding imprisonment and these hardships these
Indians never signed a deed lor this United States attorney or his
confederates; and after they had failed to intimidate them they
marched them under armed guard before a Mexican judge and de-
liberately forged their names to deeds to their Oklahoma lands.
Those deeds are now of record, and it is through the interference on
the j)art of the Departments of our Government in preventing the
Indians, through tliese faithless officials from carrying out their
plan, that we are here to-day insisting upon tlie Government's pay-
ing a sum whicli represents but a smallpart of what it really owes us.
I desire to state further to the committee that we moved 1,100
miles this i)ast summer from southeast to northwest Mexico. This
move was made necessary by the action of these faithless United
States officials who by their persecution drove the Indians from the
temporary home they had acquired. We have found another loca-
tion that would make an ideal home for these Indians. It is in the
Sierra Madre Kange. There are 251,000 acres of land there, and
it has 20(),0()(),()00 fe(»t of pine timber on it, and sufficient, grass to
graze about 12,(K)0 cattle, we believe, and perhaps more; that is a
very conservative estimate.
We come herci asking for $.*i00,0(X) and for a final settlonu^nt with
the Government of the United States, not that that is all the Gov-
ernment ow^es us, but because it is sufficient to enable us to acquire
a home an<l a place where these Indians may be unmolested and live
in contentment and make a support for thems(»lves.
Senator Stonk. Have they moved from where they were when
you were last In^fore the committee to the place you now speak oft
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir.
S(»nator Stone. What State is that in?
Mr. Bentley. It is in the State of Sonora.
Simator Stone. They were in Sonora Ik* fore, were they not?
Mr. Bentlev. Xo, sir; they were in the State of ('oahuila. They
left Muzquiz, (V)aliuila, under the protection of an American consul
on the CUn of May last year and made their way during the summer
and fall through the deserts and over the mountains to near Douglas,
Ariz.
iSenator Six)ne. How far is this location from the Arizona line?
TX£ATT ST1IFCXAT30SS «TTH HXXHCXX £ICSAPOD OnHAJTS. 5
Mr- Be>t!jet- Ii k *Wci 3I> ttiiiK beSow ti» line. ai»d lirt* -aroaatay
is mii «LC'niK>»25 f ^Jre^n i»!=ftTT«- wbene DoicidT iir-es *jDi irbtre ii*w* cut
Skllli/jt Stcxi- Hji^tt Hi-cKii li2>3 i* tinere in iif
3!t- Ete> TTLTT- In ti«e tr^ci we *««ri to *ittjuii*f
IIt. Be>ti^t- Ttto L-cii-ditd ax>d fiftj-oiDie itoosMid arres.
of Li>fr ifciid r^c^irs iLl:i *l«r/m A^/MK* <«• ^JM*'.^ wrT<d of h is Ij^t-riir
It is iie:h-i:T:fLl]T gntsse-L Ai>d =ii*Hpe is ijgt rerr niiKi linaiifcr. of
)1t. £r>r:L£:r. Ii htioij^ to dOfSise wLite Eaem wbo Uve in El Paso,
^leubt/.-'T StC'XI. Wbere dad ihfj ^ it f
Mr, Br^TLZX- Tiny 2«c4 h frwm «ic«ae gnDdi-cttitic tLaJ <nrn&d it. It
is It p'kfiie o»f ooifiiUiry liiii Las iieTer lp?i«a oompiML
Ser_ LV.r ST'VXt. It Las Dexiar beieci n^ as a run^f
ilr. Br^TiiT, It wiLS iner-er Tir*d for aajj pcrpc^ae exc^ejt wbea
iLert is ^ dr-ou^i. Tids lies ri^Li tekrw- wLeW liie lixi^ of IkcL Tct-
riv^ri^ iiiitiraticii iLe Mexkan liDfc. HljeL ti* drc^u^i Lts foftcd
liiriL <*z\ tier Lat* as loaijT as ^J/Mf* dtd* dopwn' iLerfc.
S^^^Tor .'^^^-'.'Xi- Is literf T^^iitj of waa«r <k»"«Ti tLemei:
>It. BrxTUErr. TL-r?* i§ ifc-^e w niter: tie OiijTOES a31 Laxe screami^
iid iL^-rt *!% Teay me Lot ^s^iLis:?^
SKLb^i-vr St«:x£. How is it as 10 ajri'^nJirH!* ?
iir. Br>TurT. Oi; tLe -»«=« side of iLe in«t tiere are aiK:*ut X^sJ^S^
%rT^ iLm TT^ c^:'!.-^^*^ Teiy ikir aeri'fnih.iitl laaid: sr^TTje* gT«^m^1 por-
iS'-.'L.- *T*- ex.^i'ia-c-iitljT fiije f-rjr asTacsolruie- aii^d. a^iiiii- ]Tist to the
i.:-r:L >fr. ^-li.^r-'er. a Texiiu- wLo Las li^wl ttore =r>iije TweiatT
T*atr=w Las lii:i.*-jj ?i:-ci«ieidtid iii cwndia^ sc^oe fii» aniesAia wells, acd
"irC'iL tb'»=fr we-!!s Le Las raiawS goaiie fine wLeai arid Las lurr*' fields
of alfalfa, fci^d we believe lioA t^is laind is alsj» nir^ierLdd vitb
ar:.es:Li, wi:rr-
.SecA.v.^r Tri*'',>yi^ Can To»n irn^aie it fr-.-iD tiie siJLrfAoeJ
ilr. B£>'TLiT- Tes^ sr: fr-i^m ti* anesan w^-lisu
SrL.fc.i.c^ .St'-Xil I nittan fri:»3aa iLe sj^raiis:?
iir. BrxTLiT. We '::iii irr^a-ie eiK^iafiii fTfjm ?be streims tLat fo!-
I'.'W dowT; i^:..-.. li^ flij ^*uii\rrz we <aii j»r'>Tid!e ejEK^jigi irn^atioii
for TD'jTt Ihixi iLtii lije iTHJiaJiS w^>n]d er^r fam*. <maa if wie did not
g*^. iLe an<c^iii. iriiTeT — ^Lar. is. •«LK>ujdit to raise en«ftl foods and
s'j^ CT-:'T»5 AS liLe IirditJiS w^j^tjM nd*.
SecLk^/'T rrroxi- C<^T:i2d jooa grt a pjod title to tbis landf
ilr. hzynxT. Ar+sKO^ielj.
SeiA.T/.'T Sr*': yt- Hare toti fudd uuTtLiiie <« it !
>lr. Br>-7ixT. Xo- sr: lyA oci iLi- tni«- We Laxe >*:iii2it lii>d in
Meri*:^.. iLa:! we Vft. or were •compeiled to kaxe. <Hi aocsc^-uxi of tbe
inz»Cf=ir:cci of tii>e I>*-T:«artiL««jt a^^iiis^
rsez.fc'.i'T S7'c->£. Hov did joqi i^appen to taise prjSBtas^ixi of it with-
out pkjiiJLg f<>r itt
6 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Mr. Ren TLEY. During the time the subcommittee of the Se ate
was at Dou«rlas, Ariz., I appealed to the owners for permission to
let the Indians camp there during the winter until we could see
whether arrangements could be made to buy the land, and the In-
dians moved on it about three weeks ago; they hunted all over it
and they are now camped there, but we are only there by sufferance
of the owners.
Senator Stone. Have you a contract for the purchase of that
land?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; that is, we have what might be termed an
option.
Senator Stone. Is it in writing or verbal?
Mr. Bentley. It is written ; yes, sir. Mr. Booker, the owner, has
given a memorandum to the effect that he will take a certain price
lor the land.
Senator Stone. How much does he want for it?
Mr. Bentley. If we took the entire tract it would cost us about
98 cents an acre, the wav lie fiirures it.
Senator Stone. A little less than $250,000?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; and we figured to fence it and acquire
some stock, and dig some ditches to irrigate it.
Senator Stone. Have not those Indians considerable live stock?
Mr. Bentley. Not at this time, nothing but horses and mules.
We were very unfortunate this summer, because in going acrass the
country we lost at least half of oar horses for want of water. In
going over the desert in hot summer they frequently drove a stretch
of 90 miles without water. In fact we did well to get the Indians
over alive. The Indians are practically in a poverty stricken con-
dition. The Department might afford us relief, but it will not do it.
Senator Stone. What are the Indians living on there at the
present time?
Mr. Bentley. Deer meat, l)ear meat, and haveline, which is a spe-
cies of wild hog. In fact outside of the game I am supporting them
at this time, and have been for some considerable time, out ojt my
own private funds. I furnish them monthly about $150 worth of
beans and flour and some little coffee and tea for the older ones, and
medicine and one thing and another that they had to have. They
are getting along as economically as possible, but if they are held up
mucm longer I do not see how they can exist. There is another em-
barrassing position in which we find ourst^lves. Mexico says to us,
" If you have money to buy land and you will go ahead and do some-
thing here you are welcome to come into our country, but if you are
not going to acquire ownership in the pro|>erty ami wander around
the country we do not want you here. The Department has per-
sisted in tying up our monev with the idea that Mexico would put
us out, but the ambassador, Mr. Creel, told me a few weeks ago that
they would give me another year to demonstrate whether we are
going to be able to acquire land, and he seemed to be well pleased
with the location we had selected.
Senator S'n)NE. Does the Department of the Interior or the Indian
Bureau still insist u|X)n the return of these Indians to the States?
Mr. Bentley. They do it indirectly; they refuse to pay them the
money that is due them — that is, the lease money that is collected for
:? ^"_-_ :• ^ ,*]:'. i':y.*::^i — ^tr.! iL^rr ilrvv ^rXi-rr *:i^-»3Ll •_!% -' •:jr "p lt .f lij^cr
*v^:.i' .-• •^7^^JL. H'tt r.vi lii:_i }jtTf: 'L'T' iz. OklLb'.rr^L *
ilj i>i:>?TLiT- 'iVi-.l, j:: li tizif.fru -iL >:fe-.- Lvr: f'.*r- ljc ii: hLL*^t^r lt ^o
Mj. BiT^Tt-n-- Xcv £:t: r. i? nj zz^^i'einj'-'C. t-o ^Liir siiii^ r*:^^*". i:tVl*
'ic*^ 'Ir-iii :T'>irr ivi- lIjI "^il.^. 'i*h z^\.Z-'^f^ TTrr:*^ :ii :rT irr»:3L
I til t.i"-rrli :JLt.: •..♦^ JI_i-.LI. L^r^l.:- "Wljt-.Jrl*: Z:-: VTli^r * *jr tT-*:'- " "• 'J^et
Mr- riij^TiuLr. Ti-^y tr* i:i ^r.^r.fe-jo.-i. f T^ir: :-f •.1*- lh.vi- Af:*?
lirS*- f'M***! i'^^.i^ "V^rT^ 'XUrl. ' 1^ Il/TlULr v^:* rT.Il i»*rl i "Zljiw
ii'^i.* : • t'*:.' .1 - ? : :_ r-: r r»r j^tl*- T-^ Mr 3z '.ih;. t -.": !•: r:* i^ tt ^ :* L : liiz^
"HI******" liil.i.'-:*. I. Ill .* -* '.-^irc-ni lir!!* Liil i* _iij--t:l t^i*^ "j.iiimi.rL nju'x. Taaa
--•.Ml ii**r u:i- t ;i::»i:_iHii': imz tr. K'jaivr^s — j ii_Ul iii*- uiJirtr vi_* r;-i:njt ins
I Hit; *.»- I- >r,i.i.^i i> -. rjjt ijLiii* — -iL-t •_:::iiKE. 'wl* t f--j*::ii 'Jl r:i»h yi?z ;#'.'_-jir.-
till w. li *. "-ji: x:*fL"-j*!i::i'-. '"'■^7 i-' J'.*^ *:r-*sL*. 'iii.**: >»:»:»r *iii-:Li.f i:. tia.*
"•TIT* • 11,1 -_ii»- -.fei'/*r «L.il v.- i:2iL. -Siwa*!***^ Mr ^•'j:.v*iT i:i> i-::*f.'*.*jt Hit «»
j;»i. ^ 7 ■->* I' ".'-.il c*.-'
•'-•1 '■.«; /f "-!-:» v'.ci»*jf i 'jiuJTft "niAt ^l^zk- vjjia '.t 211.111*7- T-*r* iiH»fl ^rrX rirtst
1C*2:j'ji.-_ •.•i:-;r.':« n 'riirc — . 'rcrT'.-l --i-*^ zl Ii^.^k.-jx *-i*t inii '»ir.>t- :ia -;» pt
"ii**- :h!51 V- •:! -:iit ::iiCl;i.i* i g**— :-i;g •:!■»- triit *-'.■ -:ii*»-j' jLiii*. • • •
"w*!:* i "1^1 **- nHr-i I -.-*?«• *fl tut jni:'r:v.ii^i i". >liTai,:a iimitr *-i-t* L:*rTL'"*it2i«:.
ami*- ',•;•>.»«.•'-' -I "H '-it*- *!r:<r: v. jrv^rir^ »rjtLT*7-tii'j** friOL "U**: lii*:iii» ▼*»«
4« is ifj'Trr. in- lii* r*^'3r!- Vjw* Tt? iio <?*5::3fr vi-tri^^i i^zutzm
li^CL- tl.'i rwi' CiT^ kf'u*^ "±1**:^ IAZV** "irrT* fl-TT^i Vj •LL**fr«^^ i**ii*
i^'ir V. :;--.? •::':.rr>bi»: -p-rri l.:- r£i:'V>:^ ^uLfcT h j..-. ■:■? -r*^-: Lii •j*«4
dttsir Tf«* iL*d of rt/xc-i ct iic-p cf LiJt PjFg*^ iasfi^^ ^^ '^j i-kT* •«&
8 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO 1NDUN8.
far prevented the land bein^ sold. In the majority of instances, of
course, they got into possession and are holding possession.
Senator Johnston. Have those lands been allotted to them in
Oklahoma?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; in severalty. The Kickapoos had 206,000
acres in Oklahoma, and the Government cut out 285 eighty-acre
tracts and assigned them to the individuals of the tribe^ and this
land of which I speak, where their deeds were forged, or rather their
names were forged to the deeds, were these allotments in Oklahoma.
Senator Stone. How much monev has been collected as rent on
these Oklahoma lands belonging to tnese Indians, and withheld from
them?
Mr. Bentley. Well, I think at this time perhaps $4,000 or $5,000
only. The Department refuses to pay over some of the rents that it
holds because there are two deeds to the lands, and they claim that
the Indian may or may not have parted with his title; and where
there is no controversy they refuse to send them their lease money
and assign no reason.
Senator Stone. On what ground does the Government refuse to
pay them?
Mr. Bentley. I can not tell you.
Senator Stone. Did they not approve a lease with them?
Mr. Bentley. Yes; but it just suited their purpose not to pay it
Senator Johnston. Did these Indians convey all the land that
they had under the coercion that you have mentioned?
Mr. Bentley. About three- fourths of them did; some were gone
and these robbers were unable to corral them and forge their names
to the deeds. They did, however, take the deeds of some that were
dead long prior to that time, by mistake, 1 guess, and they did also
get some deeds from some eight or ten who were not present, and who
were, in fact, miles away from the place where the judge was sitting
who is supposed to have taken their acknowledgment There were
about twenty, I think, that they claim to have gotten deeds from
who escaped and got away from the Mexican ponce and who came
to Eagle Pass ana deeded their lands to the trustee. That is prac-
tically all the land that these Indians possess, but the Department
has taken the peculiar position that the act of Congress of June 21,
1906, removing the restrictions as to sale from these lands did not
convey a title to the Indian allottee^ and that the Seccetary of the
Interior has yet some necessary function to perform. It is contended
that the lands, thou/^h in a State, with restrictions removed, are still
within the jurisdiction of the United States courts, and the United
States attorney, at the instigation of the Interior Department, has
filed actions in the United States district court of Oklahoma attack-
ing all the titles, both where the Indian deeds his land understand-
inglv for the purposes which Congress intended as well as where his
deed was taken by forgery or coercion. It seems to be an effort to tie
up the revenues of these Indians and to starve them out of Mexico.
Senator Stone. If the other members of the committee are satis-
fied as to these preliminaries, I would like to hear from Mr. Bentley
upon this $300,000 matter.
The Chairman. Pardon me one moment before you proceed to
that. I am entirely ignorant of Mr. Bentley's antecedents. Mr.
Bentley, when did you first become the agent of these Indians!
JSMATT SnrZTJkJSO^S VTEH WITTTAY KCCKAVOO ZITKaSS. *^
Mr. B237I.2T. I WW apiwczEtcd ia ISK as tptOMl mgoiz of ifae
11:* rTTf-nr^y. Bt wSmci?
Ifr, BcynxT. Bj ^r^^^jsji CfeviHisxuL
i. Or.ir.f:ci;L,
Tlii^ Crrt.-.iy.ty, Ki^i joii beoL irf!s;p!L>m8ai wisL tibeai far maaaj
T*skn 'rjihi,c^ '.zjjizi
Ht. B23nxr, I i^d hugSL marsMirJud vnL rJsMs. fcr ab»MiE tknm
-i-r f:»i:r 7*ar» pr>w zo tLat tncsift. izui hlj at*w>!i±-kii sc Sra wirii
Vj ;:r-*cc i^i cir-jrix "iit tiaat tfci?T Tr*r»t J^iz ^o piKTiftttTrDBi I
Oftf.-^ii'it*!! '.^rtci, I EiA-trt- fc crip CO ^k*cir^r,c liii rraKTjtii «> th^
^i*ii: "^riiiijin y.c ^•yp^aanTjC S:c:i»r;Tt*g as ^ioilt iis Iij* ^ uijan
Tr*r» ir. liit F»fii*rL prfsiai, Ti*5y Tr*rifr crx r".:iJrT ^"f azij office
jfjiti :7 t-*;''-*7 Ui±j*ii Stli^j** trAr^.aL^ fior i±it pi7rptj«t '•.f piCT^
f»»*s -jC : : - j..*ci- W* £nkl-7 wjv^iPsrjA in br*a.ir^g Tp di*;: pr*i!iMS:.
it*5L^: ".iif*!*** -Lr.*i- itjI 'ii* >i--i<uts w-a* itfrrArtf^'g p>=e»ir:'C
S«i.i".'.r S^'-.yi. Til* I^ti-Ar;* at* ^^pw*: 'i-.- nbw: .irj:-cini»c3 f
tii*n .1. \':..i7^. :jii Lra:*i ^±An ni* •axAlrx siAsijOAti^ *s F-sr: Biiaifir be
iz.-.i :ji f: '.'•:: i-iT *£j*ci '.cic •ii* Lknti* ttiAn riAii bi5i«L »Z>jia;*iti no nfewa.
brt-' '-;:•: V i:r, 'i:iii: ir^ H* *Ali: • Wiai '^an I 'i-:! for 7011!* Tfcsy
•ri»»r7 v.l-: i.--.^ yz^'i^zz rkej -mxzr^i z:* »pc.i>±Trf>ii i^«yL2L aaii the:
I^^i'i^v^' ^- • for ne
it. BiiBTLiT G^^.^^'^r r."IrtT*utiii I '»-*ti2 'irt**^ ^iiwt. Ei?T»r nkiiEk-
inz :f =r^y".r>z '•:"'. i J-^-t- '.-r -c tt 'ii* !=r>sr». I bi^i * izA^ z^jsrdfstk
TTT.l i Tx/.z-.tii -xcL-a' T trai -F^ii* nnn aw^kl::^ l VF0T*r7.''«ir> foiticim.
1.? r :a:i •b-.'v 7:1: 5r:ri T*-c«'.nr ".iiitr* ir» fc pan of nbt I^canc!U!B<
r»f!r-..7:>. iz..: l- ''»fr^i:.:r ^'Jir.rj^ ir-.r-aoij rziyw^^ zhtt •ce!fai izsMCtar
iSiiz^ wtj^L I M^jic 'mArgfr fA tbasL, ftfid tbat Inzr T«acs liaar ibef
10 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
were in a thrifty and prosperous condition, with homes and fields
and orchards, the result oi their own efforts under my direction.
They were raising corn, wheat, and cotton and putting up large
quantities of hay for the market, and wei*e in a prosperous and
contented condition.
I had no trouble in getting the Indian to labor, because he be-
lieved I was asking him to labor for his own bettorment, but had
he been impressed that it was some whim of the Indian Office or
that he was carrying out some wish of the Government he would
not have labored.
The Chairman. Are you an attorney at law?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; I can not say tliat I am in the full sense
of the term. I have been admitted to the bar, but I have no prac-
tice except in these Indian matters in the courts.
The Chairman. In what State were you admitted to the bar?
Mr. Bentley. Oklahoma.
The Chairman. In what capacity do you represent these Indians
now?
Mr. Bentley. I represent them as trustee and attorney.
The Chairman. What have you to show for that?
Mr. Bentley. Well, I have a written authority which I will be
glad to file with the committee.
The Chairman. Who is it si^ed by?
Mr. Bentley. It is signed by the chief and the council of the Mex-
ican Kickapoo tribe of Indians in regular council. It is printed in
the record of the subcommittee of the Senate investigating the affairs
of the Kickapoo Indians in volume 1, pnp's 84 and 35.
The Chairman. Are you representing them as friend or employee?
Mr. Benti.ei'. I am representing tluMu in this capacity: My agree-
ment has l)een with the Kickapoo Indians that I would be fair with
them, and that I should be paid what was reasonable and just, and
that any personal money that I had expended for them should be
returned to me. I want to say to vou in all frankness that I have not
been paid a dollar for all of the labor I have given to these Indians
covenng a period of seven years. I have Imhmi here thiileen wintera
in their interest and so far have not l>een paid anN-thing.
The Chairman. Have you a contract with them as to getting a
certain percentage on what you collect for them?
Mr. Benti.ey. None whatever; my agi*eement is, as I have stated,
that I shall be reasonably compensated, and I will accept at any time
the judgment of any three Senatoi's of the Indian Committee of the
Senate who have knowledge of the fact as to what mv compensation
shall be when the time comes for jne to be paid. I wish to say, how-
ever, that I have ample proper! v and estate of the Kickap(K)s in my
possession to reimburse myself for the monev I have personally
expended for them and to pay niyself. In fact, T rely upon the honor
of the Indians. They will be fair and reasonable with me because
they appreciate my <lisposition toward them.
The Chairman. You expect comi>ensation if this bill shall pass, do
you not, for what vou have done toward securing the passage* of the
bill?
Mr. Bentley. I expect compensation to a greater or less extent in
any event. I have propeily in my jxw-ession which would securt* me
orainarily, but if the Indians wei-e impoverished or were in distress
cnpriLArs&ys with mxxscj^ jdckakjo zsi^zass. 1 1
Tirt- C"HAii:wj.?f- I>^i EMr k^ Tfrj liii <p>?s^rjc: liefcff* jcr: pr<jiw»ed
to tiifr VH-vlMiV'-^t] pbrt '.if j-orsr l»33 : Tr.i*He f hins — -if tii^'j lj* f»fiLf —
titl jril rTut.Ur tV.»-T LLi?' ^TCCa^TJ'TJt of lilt VzJn^ SUJl*?r '.S^.-TAi* 'fyna
tiirri*. Lin* •ui?*7 LiWEi presKUMJci to i« I^^rtm^ia ij«r»r ii Witij!>
Mr- Br?rr!L.rr- I rr-igii ^t tL«it T \^Wr^ iJkj Lit*- r. :?ji*- titn I
<icc! r ."I'-H^ fcifO :f li-ir ^xcLnJn.***:'^ iLTn.*rLTX'Ci Lit* !>^.n '••*-*rL 'a 1' "-=-':' *!.:• it
I v.»i_ i !j£*- v.» '.CT*- To-r -[jT, riTrt' piiriijETiiT:4i <)jf lii* j^.^yn '^Li'.Zi r^ffT?
1^ lii**: '.:".•:. 5*:-^ of iii*;r*>- <<R'«r5u. I i^f^r TiCi» li**: T^y.^n vi Ti>*- r^rVxci-
njr Ji»r •: f :L^ Srct;.*- r*-ltti:L<ip Vj* lii*: kf .trrr -cif tL*- M.*'i:i'jac Ki'-ktvi'^j
Fc' HT^TJ^ L*r^'.":^^iL":»*r 2^-- 2i*''C. vLSdL "Tili tit f-c^ux-d cc pt^r*- 7. Tc^'-iiiiie j^
G'* :i»*^- I 'j^ O'-n.-iii*' ;•*?•. i;ij*- yrvc^ Hii "-♦^iJl.'x K«fUir.«d ii tiiPtr **? •.—.♦ t?- •oifr hih
f'.i'- M-*- i.;c»*;inii';* '.^ F JL. Tish.*JXJSj. Xr'r»st *s--i;TiW lufliii rx!*»i- n i^ajkimw:.
irii: viLf w^sr: -„t. JterJ!?. ^'.' lut-c*^ 'ler-i a. ii^*jirijci*:i:tiife. vi-^Jt S-ilr. Tbii'ifcflrjr
••Pt.f WW •iter*' •: i-«?t«! iiai K-jfi i'. iiifTc* ".^^^.tJi ;ii:7aij*a^> '.<f i*a **r ni-.n^n -Li.
•a**- 51 1 "t.: ••:♦-. I.iil:i.::t. Tin- Oui;»2hilt^ ■Grin***, tiifl C»titint j»t#'.r;'j*' r:»:»»nr*ffl
OL '.^»*- i" •ii'ai i* i.'.»'»L-! til*- win*- T.iiii*- "Jii*?- -ii=*Trt' fr\nL rilit «liu^ «ih*.".»'.*l ik
loji liir -.>'irn.i •.♦£!. M it Liii til*- Iii:::nff iFertr jci6 *it- ueJjev* tia-t Urt?- -iws%
iL ":>r •*» iLir '•'.»» .ii*?» i.'i:' V *T' Hi-t!! '.'.»r*?tX'W -.••**'jn*«'^*. r :t k'>-:. i-ri.' •■;V'*:j .-^
?^i€ iiih6*- "lirt^ III 1:1 lit i.i»r:uw^rJ ttf ■C'lr-^ftt'^i, tjif Mst Tin- lit»ffj'!iLL '.itL-'st if i»
sj^jv'*- Hill-: -jj»- "i'*si ^-i-*» <ir:nvMnmit5in ufii'/^tof v*?* uti: ti;i;«'.»fim? "i^*
Oiiii.; ■lULi -«'j rJiiiiei-''.»:ii_;ii*r j»tKi; 'j*:.
jnirLrrfcT.':- if :}_> z-^i'^.^i^ vL^/i ttII! lur i^j-juz ctt. pi;g»: 4 vf tibt
T:»'^ v.miv^^*s^r 5'.«»* i*'X Ihsbtucl^ ti «f7 "UOiZ ti**- '.rrciCu'n :tf lift sibl -iri*
v*!r»r :>!; "^it CT'.'-.iiif r*!! r*5«»r. "::ii:r "Hitt Oiit;ui;i.u -GiraiJ**^ •>.»tji»»- ;«>f:i;£if ±l riteir
iiioufc *tl* 'jmuiTiL. cue *.»rirA_ ii "CUf -eirtr^niit. Oir^us^st^ w^^* fii:i.iii*''iJ*J7'
;*Hr;#«nr*j6 t»gr "LLrtm. o»£ ^•^•Ij -rineiiiT: iLf ii«*r liwft *ty:jt i»f5 ir tut iuw/.bt-
iOLT^ i/tKOi IMJUSL JLL M«XJMC
12 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
The Chairman. Have you personally ever made the representa-
tion about this misconduct to the Department or the Presiaent that
you have made to this committee?
Mr. Bentley. I wish to say that it is my understanding that mem-
bers of the subcommittee have called the attention of the President
and the Secretary of the Interior to the facts shown in their report.
There has been such a prejudice against me and these Indians in the
Indian Office and the Secretary's office that until Secretary Garfield
assumed the office of Secretary I have been unable to confer with
any of them or to be accorded a respectful hearing. Secretary Gar-
field, however, recently invited me to his office and has shown a desire
to know all the facts, but in the limited time that he has been able
to give me so far I have been unable to make a proper presentation
of the matter now spoken of.
The Chairman. Did you tell him the story that you have told ua
here?
Mr. Bentley. I have not, because he has been unable to give me
the necessary time. I will say, however, that he has these records
before him and has requested me to call when he returns to Wash-
ington.
The Chairman. Have you or the Indians who claim to have been
defrauded," or anybody in that behalf, made any complaint to the
criminal courts of that countiy with a view to proceeding against
these malefactors?
Mr. Benti.ey. I wish to sav that we could get no relief except from
the United States court, and that is presided over by the very man
who robbed us, and I could not appeal to him for redress to get the
lands of the Indians back because he was in collusion with and aided
the persons who robbed them, as shown by the reports referred to.
Senator Stone. Who is that?
Mr. Bbnti.ey. I refer to George A. Outcelt, the assistant United
States attorney for the district in which the land or litigation arises.
Senator Stone. Is he a iudge?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; he is, as I have stated, assistant United
States attorney for that district of Oklahoma.
Senator Johnston. The fraud was perpetrated in Mexico, was it?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; and in the State of Texas; Imt the con-
spiracy no doubt originated in Oklahoma, as the parties involved
were all from the same locality in Oklahoma and were acting in con-
junction. I wish to say, in order to put myself right before this
committee, or to put myself in the li^ht in which I believe I am en-
titled to stand, that the select committee of the Senate investigating
the Kickapoo affairs, at the instigation of the Department, went way
back over thirteen years of my connection with these Indians; the
bank accounts where I had done busineas and through which the
business of these Indians had bwm transacted by me were carefully
examined by repres(»ntatives of the Interior Department who accom-
panied the commit tc»e, and they offered everytning they could pos-
sibly find against me, and the conclusion of the committee as to my
conduct in the management of the affairs of these Indians is as fol-
lows. I quote from page 13, volume 1, Kickupoo Investigation:
In ooiu'hulInR the part of tlilH roiM)rt which ref«?r8 to the conduct of tlie
vnrlouH partl<»H to th<»se tranHactloriR your conunlttet* onHH attention to the fact
that the evi<leuce shows that some of those who were od the ground repre«eiit-
TSSJlYT iTTPTHLJLEIJjJi MJZ'^ JtSSZCAlf OrEJLP'jij iaFDLl3F5. IS
ftt'S "ii* ^n r^i*H i^Tiiffi ill y» *i»H»ii ti**«aaiiri*tC .w "in- '"Tiii-jmiuu « . r.:ui*^. tut
"'.i^ II. Ill* 5«*tn;i»* 111 *:it*ir -^ffwrsk -i -H^vir* tM»t(M- ▼"*!?«* xnilrr -iif l»**iii u-iuiup ote
Liil::inA 17 ..h**\ri.'J2 «n;nt7-juf tuhxu w:t^ Jirjis-j!anri* : -ia*- ^iu*? -v*!!* 'miL
AAit uiftfi i-l ciiiiift if ^-.r'-f^. .loit r^eMvrVfl -^1 riu» ».rjiii»» "if 'irn*r7. ir-h#»r7-
«iii\«iF<f "Hutn -Jilt ?-**nrji*r 3#*fi5ife !nin\:«'.rt«i 'if Kdrriii J. Biar_i*y. ifrrt dia BL
E»*!i--i*7 TO". "3C. r ' **t mit -Jut iMHiHiiArs w^iMini TiiHy iiut -la "Tiie iT'miuC in. a*
•a;4«t i»*»*i ir 5«nur-.*ff. -*i i«i uwit imiioi; -tift Iniluum nr-isiiariinf iivTnr& inc.
m *Jii* •irniar loruL ▼*j»*a -uii* LuCnns war* Ji *rniiiiLii -juty ;i:i£i»fl .imt .iHfriiin>i£
-:ii*ni '.rn: if rliMj LJUin.n^^ -iniz •▼uile "in*? **r.Tir»ff iKt^f^ ?ic '•wy -^ 1.11011 is-
nut. i.iit ▼ai> a.-jft mmft -if aumi**?- •▼»«» tutihiI i^»r 51 Itr. S«irj«y, rinwft
jurf oix i«s«i 4111 ivx XTj •f^nC«ii»ft if 5iryfc ir •:r»su!!u»r7. ir 'ir^ugr !n4mfti^
••■•utii'-T: m -:i»» ;»ir: <if M^. ?-»»!t-:i*v ^r m? if -ni-f»<* .uiiii;*'.i:ir^ irxa iim. bnoc
m -Jii* !niimJ7. " » *rtWTi 'iitir. ii» in* inai «"-« Ti^rirxmfnL amt »alnii» jx "S*
Jin*r"»jii3 if "nrt!!** 3I.r!i.i.:r:«i j»**.|:ii*.
T^ Chii^tca3F- Wbis id Ton auKKi 'ly 'rLt* r»pT«««irArZT*«f of lift
r. iia.T ii:r Jui-* 3i;«!ri teirlr^ ■:ii "ilia ^:«»sci*>c* rju,r* :::2_ O^iLkJujOUE
^i'.j'-.i^xi "-It* r'*?H*r^ L.Ta:r i-ii izi^'v iTl ii:i:.ii:: ri^ Iiniiiizs h»*f-^cit I
::r.«: !*.iiirj7* :f uIhtti. iz-il viilLi* I hii*: •iior-rt of ^ijrtnu Iat* al-wiiy^
.evrti 217 fr'.*r.'::.t, T!it*7 ir» 217' w^:j^*:c^.**:r* zt'^^v, mii "iii* ^an»i nfcin^
^^ 'r:»* ..*_ ir*T.-!n. Ti^-yHh lz*:i.iza o"^-*r ".iii*r'* Vj-i:i7 Tr.il •••j-rLrx chas
la"-* i'.ci* :c "irj*ii v. it:-. All :r' zij^cz. *r. v*rriii*ii ':•%:•.(:» uii* S*iianft
T^it* •Iz'.iza.iCi^. P.:»*H* LitfLiris irtt^ srr Ci"iit:ti«'«- ;int 011*7!
it. E-7.<» n-AT. r 121 t^-.rrr •;,: -hit -jiiin ":>.t*7 *cil:ni*.ft niv 3ii:ii»*r!L p»-
i.jir.r. TV-i*7 'n.!0!!^ './.I* ^Lcit* t:ii!iiain r'^^i-X-t'-ti ^liidtc ziu^'j iai Trial
"Lit* TTi-'* .v.i*r. •^jtrjLt* V. 'Jiii* :j:»;z. .TT- tCii *»ia.r. :» ^iift^ r*5U^'/ii rxarr .•aai
ii-.r. :♦* '.IT...::.**:. TIiHrr* Jiik*. :f •r.iir^. :»**>ti *cinft -itfiir: inuift t»
n.ir'jTui;if..-:** v-t*ci, :»;■: I i: nr.r '.♦*•' j»t^ -, >i tiij !ncr% xciriitriyic zn-
iT'.tilsi \th -.<: ^'la :i F^'-Xr^T,sizz x_iwii:ii:ir7 .i2rj.xL:£ ^ -'.f^niinr^-rT of i^-
1' ■ 'liin • ', . L * .: • , Li ! • •»<: c ■.»* i :li i irnwKi ^ r. •;. : = •:: c 7 jit. uhi*m ^:' .x aft'v i!»-
lix-'-ti- T'*-'*?^ r~.: .1.::- ir» T»r7 t^^-r-.r-^ii -0 •:,ii*ir f-.m of nriizirtii.
I'': trbiriii:* n;LLT :f iii* v.itrr.-.cL^ -iiiiu -v*r» ia. To?ri*i in tai** ".LiLft of
if -^-
Piji* C^-i.iiYf.iy. ^^-.'v r io nor *?i7:c«'.>5«* ir. 5s awtweairT v^ zrni!tt»fi
il.-.rx V-t*He i'*i:'*ril Lije* tr-7 f-.r'.r-i^p. l- ".iiiii; i:k» iZ t#»«i ■!t:^-ir'*ii cj
"^»* r^i'r.n '".f "jj» •?:»*? '.i.l1 'trr-T' -:7.*i»>, Hj^v^T^r, w* ir» T«*rT jruui n**^
iitT* ii,i -Jij* 3i:»!!i "^r-.*:^::. ■:»;- ir. -iiii» ifttr.:::;?. Pj*ji;t** it^T-.r** tout
xnr.*!i'L.':ii i''.^;" '■: "^1^ ':•— IrjHhiL tzIhhs »cmft of ^iit iiiyiirjiar* or ih*
0f.r::rLi::7:,»ft it*M.'» *:■ ::»**?rj.?i 7:»i-
iLr. ^^iz^^n?rT. T!u* *ji.-i:- :f -"."'.r iiirn^ or rtriit^r •:"!* i.v.i'.»;r."* fii*
•ii*?r** r"«:-:i:ii*. x?: V- -r.-: f -.in* .n:-^ ^iir*!* \r»5irii»* -v.zi. "t/jMr.. P.ii*r*t
14 TBEATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN ELIOEAPOO INDIANS.
than the amount asked for. The basis of title to the lands and of
these claims really dates back to 1819. The Kickapoos at that time
had a large piece of country in the State that is now Indiana. They
traded that to the United States for a consideration and for 2,300,000
acres of land in the State of Missouri. That was about 1832. I will
go back and say that the land that was given tliem in Missouri was
guaranteed to them and their descendants forever.
Senator Stone. Was tliat set out in the treaty?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir.
Senator Stone. A\Tiat is the date of that treaty?
Mr. Benti.ey. P'ighloen hundred and thirty-two.
Senator Johnston. Was the land and its location described?
Mr. Bkntley. Yes, sir; it was fullj descrilml. As the Senator
from Missouri (Mr. Stone) knows, this reservation was a large and
valual)le piece of land in the State of Missouri which was guaranteed
them forever. It seems that the pressure became too great there; the
lands were valuable and the United States thought it was advisable,
both so far as the white men and the Indians were concerned, to re-
move the Indians west again. The same conditions pertained there
that probably existed when they treated for the land eleven or twelve
years Ix^fon*, so a treaty was entered into by which the Kickapoos
took 1,200 smiare miles of land in the State of Kansas. That is now
the treaty or 1854 originated.
Senator Johnston. Have you that treaty there?
Mr. Benti.ey. Yes, sir.
Senator •Johnston. Please give the page on which it may be found.
The Chairman. Just refer to the page when you refer to the
treaty.
Mr. Benti.ey. The treatv of 1832, whereby the Kickapoos acquired
the Missouri laiul, is fouiuf cm page IMuy, vohiine 3 of Indian Treaties,
compiled by Charles J. Kjmpler. The treaty of 1854 is found on page
f>34 of the same volume. The paragraph relating to those lands is aa
follows:
Tho KIrkniKK) tribe of IndinnB hereby ce<le, sell, and convey unto the United
StateH all that country southwest of the Missouri Ulver, which was provided
as a iM'rnian(Mit home for tlieni in the treaty of Castor Illll, of tlie 24th of Oc-
tol)er» 1S;J2, and doscrlluHi In tlie suppleinontal article then»to, entered into at
Fort r^»av«'nw<)rth on tl»<» 2(Uh of Novenil)er, 1S:V2, as follows: neKinning on the
Delaware line, where said line crosses the left branch of Salt Crei?k, thence
down the said creeic to the Missouri River, then<-e up the Missouri Uiver 80
miles when measunnl on a strai^rlit line, thence w«'stwMrdly to a iK>int 20 miles
from the Delaware line, so as to include in the lands assipuHl to the Kickapoos
at l(^8t 1,200 s(]uare miles.
Senator Johnston. We do not care to have the description read.
Does it give the numl)er of acres?
Mr. liKNTLKY. It only gives them approximately.
The Chairman. StMuilor Johnston wanted to know where the land
was l(K*ate(l.
Senator Johnston. Yes: just crive the location of it.
Mr. Hkntlky. To s|)eak al)slra('tly, this treaty of IS.*)! was another
one of (he land <irnnts by whirh they could be moved farther west,
and the land that they a(*(|uired by this treaty in the State of Kansas
was 7.V),<M)() acres in northeast Kansas.
Senator Johnston. Is that in that treaty?
Mr. lihNTLKY. Yes, sir.
::xzj.rT sziirrLxT:^^^ ^ttth Mzxr.Ay K>rs-u*:i=:- zyz<^3§^ \t
**TL.ii-.:r -7.H.' -c-Y- Will"- >jit* h 3IT tb*?%! Tli*^ dftriitii w>
y.:. Ji. •':^_i. V-^^ -rr. Ti*»- ::5*t ▼t- ^--ilj v^ s-.t*: lirtci 7^V
v> i ;— .z, rrr.lii^-* f'.L' -.L-* Mi-st.-^^ Ihriiir tiyi *:cjt phn cf \:s3A
:.• Ji .-j.r:-: ."r-rr.- I' oi- .Vr:,':>: 4 of 'i-k' Trtirr prvr:i.*-§ -i.^i if m
I1...LI. 'Jr.'v '..rj •:-i.: tI^^j s'..ill •.•»: *ii:.*S^i :o iv =r. lzjI tji-lII 1a ~*'
i- r. . ':l _ii : i. *li*^ Ii.:_ti. 1 -.rrj'.rjrj l* "::j*: zrnt'.i»»T-ir tf \cy: jtzjZ j>fi\
:m m-t T:. . l:l Tr77":.:»rr i: -v.. /I \ zry:^ k- ii«»: ••>:'' *n. •_--•*»:_'. zntj vlj
f:*: ^I'.rj-*:. 7'iirr -V. ■ Trun*^- i«ci::xi-* ^^-i -- I:::\kz. T*rT::":':rT for
'Lr : ■. ;-:'>^ ;: 1:ol: I-z \zj^. szx'.iL I'-i-iiiiT tr.**: rr.-.»'.jii iitT*: ^.-j^ "b*-
K. iiL :•-•.'•- 'L'^ f"._l "il-'*: cf 'LI* frjiii ir. li:ifi tr jh'.J:.'. -p^^ j.:*?*. "liit
.•r ':"•■'• z.{ :. ' r V. •jLiT' Itr.f I.* 'X^*.*iii3..1t':*ff '*t- •If*- •r'l-ijrr -of
:- « T-r: ^.'M-r-i V-i-j^ T.:iii tij?" Sfr"' "'I'.'je toi Cr»^k Iij-ri*::*
'.L-::. .;_ ri' .-i'::^ :.r ri>i:_»*: s.l^:z lirji ^" ' t j v.- Ti/*- Trtf*^ -iri. il*
>:■ i* : "^T M, U'*'1. "B^Ll;* ".JLrT:**
. » i:-. i- : '-'7 m: z^\ lii»i i* t^- ti.*': *i*t •>•. " *rnrj*r.T 'y::?ir^i zo
". . '>: : -"• ■-- f rr.i_»l:*- "s^ V T •ii*^ TT't^l.'X ▼Lt iJlf*^ in^fi* vf lift
-;;,- v^-- -■-:. ^..-.a-r*; 1 r. '' "irir^r i ZLj'.rL IbTyw Trur* f-.^ ft ztfm
■ .'.1^ _i '.y. 'y-'\jLZ, T'.rrryirj. v^c^.L^r irruL ^xza 11:0*7 trxisiffft-
\y . ■ '.'^ .'••;. 1''*- -■'. '"-r f I " '.r"fc'j* Tjar^*-* zc lift *rrv~*TLzi'*'r-.'T- id ^
r _i.- : -[jLi: ■j.t" L.-vvir*-: f'.c 'Ji-t zrir::»ci* iLxn Tiii*7 pit--: Ti*
"> :?• .'-i V - I' ":*»^T r*f:i*':T*j-i ri ?f tL*?* rtcn-t^i* if ir^iisg
16 TREATY 8TIPUIATT0N8 WITH MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
were made to wanderii^ tribes simply to give them a permanent
home; even such lands were again sold to the Government by trea-
ties made with the same commission that made the last alleged
trade with the Kickapoos and such tribes were paid $1.25 and $1.50
an acre for their surplus lands in excess of allotments, though the
basis of their title was nothing but an Executive order.
I will now read you the provision of the treaty which fixed the
price the Kickapoos should pay for the land in the Indian Territory
which was given them in exchange for their Kansas land. It is
found in article 4 of the treaty of June 28, 1862, page 836:
Should n majority of the ndiilt males of snid class decide to remove to the
Indian country south of Kuumis, then and in that case their new home Khali
not be limited to the quantity above Oesignated, but shall be as lar^e as can l)c
purchascMi with the proceo<l8 of the sale of the tract to which they would have
been entitUHl had they determined to remain u]K)n the present reservation,
computing tlie same at the rate of at least $1.25 per acre.
The land they left in Kansas was 123,832 acres.
Senator Stone. I can understand how much that amounts to at
$1.25 an acre.
Mr. Bkntley. Yes, sir. In this treaty there is a provision a?
auoted above that they shall be entitled to as much land in the In-
ian Territory as their land in Kansas would purchase, computing
the Kansas land at $1.25 per acre.
Senator Stone. As the United States may pay?
Mr. Benti.ey. Yes, sir; may pay. It could not be inferred other
wise, because the language is positive. The United States actually
paid 30 cents per acre for these lands: the Kansas lands were sold
for $167,290, and tliis invested in lana at 30 cents per acre should
have given the Kickapoos a reservation containing 557,033 acres.
Senator Stone. You claim they ought to have had 557,633 acres?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; instead of 206,000 acres.
Senator Stone. Which they got?
Mr. Bentley. Wliich they got, but which the Government did not
let them keep.
Senator Stone. What is the amount of that difference?
Mr. Bentley. Three hundred and fifty-one thousand six hundred
and thirty-three acres.
Senator Stone. Some three hundred thousand acres difference?
Mr. Benti.ey. Yes, sir.
Senator Stone. Is that the basis of this $300,000 claim ?
Mr. Benti.ey. The basis of this particular chiim is this, that had
the United States given the amount of land to the Kickapoos that
they were entitled to in the Indian Territory in exchange for their
Kansas land, as provided by treaty stipulation, we would have had
557.633 acres of land instead of 206,000, as was given. The land ini-
meaiatelv surrounding the lands that were given to the Kickapoos in
Indian I'erritory ana that were assigned to other similar tribes of
Indians were negotiated for by the same rominission and after al-
lotment these other tribes were paid $1.25 and $1.50 per acre for
similar or inferior lands, while the Kickapoos by the terms of a pre-
tended treaty, were arbitrarily paid 32J cents i>er acre for their sur-
plus land, which amounted to $r)4,650, $5,000 of which was paid to a
white man acting in behalf of the commission who were authorized
by Congress to negotiate a treaty with the Kickapoos and other
JSSEATS: STIFnJkTXflks "•IIH ICEDCAJf KlCikAFO«\> UOWJLyfi. 1?
T*-j% ri:li r.-T lilt Uiiii*d S'LEJits %o "m^iis* aaDiJMS foir SLSiC' per Acanfe.
aiid lirfrr* i^ i:jt i2j!t KJidki.T>c*o» iT^^-taiirt^ frwm likt UiJiad S^ll.^*^^ lie
sjC-K'-XK" fciT'-e? kfirfrj- lilt K^i'iiiipci& TTiri>ii.T»4> Jiad tskiii bwou jiaagiiftd eO
*cr»!r n i*tT*-rfcliT *• liZ: iL-inziiyri. ^x^aKpl Thas. want of lii^n Tr«e
S«L;kri.:-r J: 5> ?!•:>. Wiar, bwauiLit -of "lie* SC^C'-lMJ icire? J
Mr. Br^ ttl^^- I Tiriij ^tj*"-*-^' dao. if li* «ffr Trfrna^ '•ii; fc«x -wiiii
But I:i 1 i-'M k ?rzi-z»^f^.i rsvtxj ira* iidi.5* -raii litt K5idcjL^><:^c& It
•l©:-:'.-:^ v-i iij^i <>:n fni-:ii
Tiit «Vs_'_iiJc_*v- Of viai.*: did ii« frvai ^ictsM I
Jfj, Iri:>7i.iT- It v:'Z^--,^.^2 ii T'caJr'^.g lirf agri^tcwg of ptrgccs
Ui» 'l**- T;:»^fcTT vb^j did liii -Ce^ it nixi Viro iipr*r «EL«rj!id- «ud ti«
Tttr'r*t '.f j»*-rs:-ii- vif.. -vert detflbd 1c<l^ f 'rlcjr to li* "czut -o^f 5x« scp-
Mr. hn^'TUTT. Y*s- sir: I flh"r: ihm k *»"«« a fr;«rjE»»i "nr^acnr. A
p«i»*:rT- :"^ "^Ir.^ 11.11: ttu.- piaid ftr--Ct>'' i-c 5W rp iii»i Tir»;LTT. il^ upptskTs
T*-I>r- II >T:i*iLr -.jg of Lii? naosier. as ^cj»tb bjr iiie C':5:r7»J3skcial
Rti-:r.-rf cf :Lfc5 itj. po^ Z»^^^, said:
TiHr ' 1 **-: !!S--i-^ \9'^mctr.'±j§ JEne iTBtt ISksk ]»c9ile -wrhn Ijobt -Ae iftfle
a3i£ h'.'st .-_ Tirtr ?s7T!r»aiifc *..:n::r: ^tf tiit rifr*!^ lteMi» ft«iitj»f4 ±l t ifrn ht
CMRr Tmti •JiS' v^i'i *2n:m*5r: jlibt r*«;Knii m TruBS» *» la* liiSioif Itc -fl* fi-1
im*r*^ •-'. it: z±ttz. • • • Br: iii6^i!3iite£3 «tf ItaEL Mr- Fs^emftEKL -Sk* G*^
■Brunei:: :(f *!«: . iiri»ti SoA** "irtt ^astZzisg Trifit Sbs i»«rfli: ±i v,^k. rtt t±ii«- fran
Za 'Vri'Di- l.ltt 'UiSL Vliit '.Jit JlOif lUT iL •^JfiSSVOt TTWr fsVUi W^OSl 31 SHpUIiABA
ti> -nil***- llilif T:K
H:c M:»=ie5 H CLi-pp gaid:
aiaii*7 vi:f ;fijf iim i-j "ni* Gci^enniiein r
To -^li.'ii S^sLfc^'i'ir TfiOsr rcpiisd:
Tisi'! If »!x.L'.-:i7 -p-iJLr: &£ lAy;mL it i^tim caaa. ft vaa a SDuai aaadajsoi
Tilt CH_sJi3c_L3c. "i^TLki rwiwrd!
Mr. Li^^LiTT. Tij* T^fxird <?f tiae trearr itad£ Tl» tnMXw kaiif
pnTif'-^i 'jLi: --'i^ -"^C'iz: T- HID a«wJd fie paid ft;»-C*» fcir tarrrfey
rei ftrrii ir ii^Lcrg 'oLi^ tr«aij. Tli* treatj t;^ iipj:*r*irr»»d Manb S.
!•:;--:.. kr Ljj.»*^fcr^ ii."i::7Stjii^:3i&aa Lau^^pa^ ^7ii&^L Asi«>tii26
€iLi:i:_ iT-.V.r^ rjzz of i£it Trotitj 5**ii OT«*d f-w ?cf2i355» ii La* Lad
li.^ fLv-:'i.v;-*':::cL3isrMiticJ!L of tJk* fijf Cggprt^Taat -oci Iikdjaoi AAain
• -of VJft F:ftT-:L:
18 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
5089 and Xo. 2501, which show a bill was twice favorably reported
to pay the Kiekapoos the ditference between 32^ cents and $1.50 per
acre.) In relation to the treaty having been an absolute fraud I
wish to now offer in the record a statement made by the more intelli-
gent Kickapoo Indians during the time of the sitting of the select
committee of the Senate at Douglas, Ariz., during the month of
November, 1907.
A^davit of nineteen Kickapoo Indians denying having given power of attorney
to deal with the Goicrnment or of having signed or approved the treaty
between the Government atid the Kickapoo Indiana approved March S, ISUS
(27 Stat. L., 557-66S).
Territory of Arizona, County of , as:
The undorsigiiod, Mexican KickaiKms, bolng duly sworn, depose and say that
they are each and overy oiio over tin* age of 40 years, and were in the year
18U1 and for many y«»ar8 prior thereto residents of tlie KickaiKK) Reservation
in Oklahoma; that they were present at a council of said KickaiKX) tribe called
by the Coiumlssion known ns the (lorome Commission, held near tlie village
of Wellston, in the month of June, 1S91. That at the said council si)eeche8
were made both by the meml)er8 of the Commission and l>y the head men of
the KlckaiKK) tribe; that finally a vote was taken as to wliether or not the
said Kickai)oo tribe should consiMit to the allotment of their lands and the
making of the treaty there presented l)y the said Gerome Commission; that
upon said vote one adult Indian and his two minor sons only voted for the
acceptance of said treaty and tliat all of the remainder of the said Kickainx)
tribe then present vottnl against the making of said treaty; that no [mimr was
at that time presented for the signature of the members of the said tribe,
and that no person signed any treaty or agreement of any kind ; that some
time during the month of August thereafter, one John T. Hill cann* to said
reservation and took with him to the city of Washington two memt)ers of the
said Kickapoo tribe, namely, Ociiuanocasey, Kishocanime. and one Joseph
Whipple, a white man in no manner connected with the said trilte; that the said
two KlckaiK)o Indians so taken to Washlngttm, I). C, were Instructed by the
KlckaiK>o tril>e at a council of said tribe to protest agahist any attempt to allot
their sjiid lands or to in any manner interfere with the title thereof as then
held by thcni; that uixm the return of the said two Indians from the city of
Washington the sjild KickaiKX) tribe was informed by them that they had so
protested and that no treaty whatever had been made or accepted by them.
Notwithstanding said statement, shortly thereafter came (ioveniment surveyors
and the I'nitetl States Indian agent saying that they were authorized to sur-
vey and allot said reservation under a treaty nuide by sjild John T. HlII,
Octiuanocasey, and KishmMimme; that thereui)on all of said Kickapoo trlbe^
with the exception of ten heads of families, left the better |»art of said resi»rva-
tlon and remov^nl themselves to the most Inaccessible iMirt thereof, and that
they In no manner particIiMtted In the siiid allotnnMit, but protested constantly
against the sanit\ and refused to accept the iwyuu-nt of money provided by
tlie terms of sjiid treaty to be paid to ejich member of the KickaiKm trilnj;
that today, for the tlrst time, there Is now shown to them a CM)py of the said
treaty so alU»t:e<l to have betni made, the said copy being found on pages 557-
5S-5«» tHJ-cil (ill of vol. 27, U. S. Statutes at l^rge; that they have had ri*ad
to them the signatures attaclnHl theret<»; that they find slgneil thereto the
name Pameethout; that th«'y are of the opinion that the siiid rameethout
refers to the only TanH'thot who has ever btM^n In Oklahoma Territory uinin
their res4T^ation ; that there has never bet»n but one Pamethot on szild reserva-
tion and that he is a Kansas Kickai>oo enrolled in Kansas prior to said treaty
and allotted there subsiHiuent to th(> date of said treaty and Is not a member
of the Mexii'an band of KickaiH>os in Oklahoma: that the said name of
Pame<»thout appears twice In the signatures and attacIuHl to said treaty; that
the name of N-ktn^thow, attachinl to said treaty, is not a Kicka|K>o name and
no such i>erson was ever connected with said tribe; that the name Take-
kakthoe, thereto attached, is not a Klcku}K>o name, and that no such i)enM)n
was ever <(»nne<t4Hl with said tribe or lived ujwn said resi^rvation : that the
name Mt*ereji.l<inaw, attached to said trwity. Is not a Kirka|MM» name nor did
any such i>erson ever reside upon said reservation, nor was he u member of
MaJd tribe; that the name Theoroughnaugh U not a Kickapoo uam« nor did anj
ffnPTLAXEOSS WTTB ItEUCAS KSCKAPOO aTDCASSL 19
vwdt p^nrja «v<r rciidfr ncpAtt fltM merr&rjviiu hoc wa* b^ a. in*uiifit»r 4# jh;^
ti&f^ i;iai«^ PsLj^^ni^c;^ ^ soc & CIiiiict:;.oi> o^iiiit^ jtnii ^har a«&^ fiii!ii ;^»rMa ever
ri^tt!*rti T;;r.a ■•ani r»?»«^aniiWL anr wi* iir a. aii»ii-C«»r a^ «iil rrJ****-: -iia.- "is*
saicj*' ifayvj«:rpii-rjti»«Hirrt &s lu^c & K5rtuir,«» aaai* amd dun rirt *nriL p^rviif
^*r 7i»9Kr^l iijria mud r»!««va.c£rsii:. n^r w** tot * mjsmbfis^ r^t mil tr-:-**-: time
liii* zaaii^ W.*-iTjtt.»tM«L^^2i a ium: a Kxitfta^oo naau*^ aiiit tnAr 2*-, ^niin j^THitt
r»*5H«i»»tt TT:ofi "Ml Lit r»««r»»ifirta, luoc w»* i* a. ait*aib»*r 'tC 'hi^ ':r'T^: -2a • tfibt
r^v «ii^ r45r%>ci *«*r PUuitHi Tjr,cL skifi r^^iHw a-jrvc, nftr wx* :jf a 2i**suv^r wf
2'jirr:i»fi -r> * Clj^icapo^ w^maa. friii> w** at tftan i±xw^ rHt*iiI^*!it ^:;«-n. «'»i r^ww^a-
Cic- i»r: wa-4 zji-r a ait^tiJwr <»* miM. ttSb^ anr axi'l Oji^ -tv^r f:»*i»r. ir>i!r -127*^.^1 5y
siijt cri* a:» *nidi: t&ac ;:a* oaju; %^vu*Jk3tw%.w 'a rciii-.«:ft<'*ilL7' L-::i;jii:ii.^t f.vc -ji*
&;itt!ctp-»:-«> I:iril;ia !iajiii*#£ sS(<>^iik!fcciiuiikp wjui «±It»ft iiiivc* -^:t.: 1^*- j«tr* jc'-*''^ "j»
*iie •cSaift o€ uiL* ^rxasa^r^ msttrfn^ ml SLiai tpiaty 67 «jtl '^irr-.m* •'?»'/inaii«iii^a :
tiA,z dLft aaicift P^tJigaxrs^^aijriag!: lis aot a Katta^t-jo lajmt ajiii 'ti\.z ii:- fr:nn. ^er-
a»'/fi *-r*r IiT*fl i^fHi fltad r«B*r7at5f)Ow twc wa* a* ^^-w i 2i»*n:i:«*r .i **»;il rrib«t:
tiiac tfiit nAmt» Madcanrtyvr ^ ium: a KidaLz*':0> oasi.*^ a^l 'Ji&i~ iii vitMi ;*«s>ii
(i-r^r r»«tti«l axwo: atUii ffWKrracwwi, lu^r was lii^ €^*r a aii*nii>»r 'lY m.ii -nr^i*:
petSMi vw*r riiftiiiisii ip»m lai*! r»»s!erBan>MU nr-jr wti* li* *':.*r a z.-mw.*^ ol «.>i
criS*: that th* oajxw- Pattbewiri* fi» irtC a KIi^i;«'o 2iin:»t .irnti 'laz zt: *iti^
p«r»ni *v«- netfiirtfi Tp*ia 9k1i£ rywrratSou. mor iri* ii* ar anj -iau* a 2irtiift«r
#rf Skid trf>*: tfcat tie- aam* Eairu*!*rartft te njnr a 5::.Hca;t»-i i;i2i#»r a.:«I -2:1 1 iu»
vsdi pisr*;a «»^-*r ns^lbsA »rcwa «.jii risfiirja.'nrAu 21 i^ ^-i* A»t *^'*r a i.!Miifi»*r »3€
«".il -rrr.«^: tl::!-. -i**- zASut y«««!t«-/ocafiivia.-3r;aw u» "Wip^t^-rl -■■ t-**- *•!!* 2a zi*^ of tS*
E:. -i-i . »'<-j aajiLiyi yi.^icnrnfajefe wim wa* a KIivxar;<« rr.ii::in- -will r»sf**rTa!r5wL
ajji -:-r^^ii#*r of «iji era*, ^»xt whn i&h* snon* iti y»ar» prViC Vv tfii^ ^atfr ^
tj*r ar.-*!a.jr«i ma '^'T'.ry <5f *Ji* «!if a2ri»«ai«xit by ta* m'A 'j-^toqi*? vV 011:1 jmiIihi:
ttat rjiiiy ami aniii> of tinr jeic^us- •t^-ir ainiii^claiftfi •Jit*- aiJii *j»*j\jLZt'A^ak^/ej^
Kj»t**-v«ii:ci3i*, and X-;ta T. Hr.^ ^w *itlL«" 'of tiiiisa. ti> r»t'Cwi*««ir. -J:**- *iiji -r^i*
or a:i7 \t :z3k !ii«iu>*rf or c»j anra^ii tJi* *i;c:a?nrr»t of -Jbt «iii "ribe. sr a^y ■:•' ..ta
mesuMnw tn aaj trsatj «ir a^r»»«niflit wtuiarj«%-r«: &ct "Jiat, oa -iii* ^.c^nrirT,
tii*y -cn.«stf*fi at all dskss agamar tAe mn'g'^:;' <if said axr*?H:i»*!i* ir.tl tlie
€i-*trri«:c. tfiisnsfif-
.<"X*triS«»fi as*! nrvjra sn te&wt h» rfcfiff Iltft. iftiy ^f >i:.-r*mft»w. I:>'C !:7 :i!iii»-
J, B. ?^TLa.
1. O^^iTtfaw < iia X 3ia7k ' .
2L Jim Dvdl
3k. Kiiz-z::X'T>^'«yn - ':^ x iiiar&>.
C AH-isa^attrc-a: • !iu» x siarii:^.
7. WA-?T-§i;fflt ' alj* I 32a. ric > .
•u AH-S-fc-iAA vato ■ il» X ma^^^,
flL Ne rs.TffsFS^ ■ lta» X luairtt^.
Kl A3 CHz •:?£ • !iiiff X mar^i: > .
II. 0»4=7Er.iH.iETffiic ! ai» x aiark>.
li Wi^iM^y? ■ iii» X mart'.
13.. WrH?AH03u> rh«»r I marfct-
14- Asy.trHrHA -^jta ' irtT x aiark^.
15l pjurxTH'/T •al;* X mark),
lilL Cg.tgrg»Hz »':iiv X martr.
17. PiarrrrriCTPA < iij» x aiart^,
lA. Ke Ji3 x^ Q^.L I £Lt»7 I aiurk^*
ISl Joes JCiJFK ^ &^ X marie ji.
20 TBBATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
The signature of Indians numbered one to nineteen were made In my presence,
the said signers being personally known to me, and the said document was thor-
oughly explained to said signers, and that the leaders dictated the facts therein
contained.
W. S. Field.
The signatures of Indians numbered one to nineteen, inclusive, were made in
my presence, being identified by Jim Deer, and the said signcra stated they
understood the statements therein contained.
John J. Hannan.
There is no living Kickapoo Indian to-day who can identify the
names to that treaty with the exception of three of them, which are
names of persons who were not allotted with the Kickapoos or were
of Pottawatomie or Pawnee blood and had no right in the Kickapoo
tribe.
Senator Johnston. What is the date of that treaty?
Mr. Bentley. It is dated Washington, D. C, September 9, 1891,
and was confinned March 3, 1893, the negotiations appear to bear
date of June 21, 1891.
Senator Joiikston. Do you personally know all the Indians of the
tribe?
Mr. Ben'h.ky. Yes, sir; I know every one of them personally.
Senator Stone. What is the date of that treaty?
Mr. Bemtley. It appears to have l)een executed on the 21st day of
June, 1891. Concluded in Washington, D. C., September 9, 1891.
That was the lust treaty that the Government made with the Kicka-
poo Indians. It was approved by the act of March 3, 1893.
Senator Stone. And that, you say, is fraudulent?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir j the Indian agent's certificatelto that treaty
willj in itself, show that it is an absolute fraud. I desire to read the
certificate of the Indian agent in charge of the Kickapoos at the
time of the execution of the alleged treaty:
Sac and Fox Indian Agbnot, Ind. T.
I, Samuel L. Tat rick, TTnlted States Indian agent at Sac and Fox ^Npency, In
the Indian Territory, hereby certify that the Kickapoo tribe of Indians Ih at-
taolKMl to said a^t^ncy ; that thoro are no complete rolls of the persons consiltut-
Inj? said tribe of Indians; thoy have perslstenily refused to have or i)ennlt an
enrollnuMit to be made, but from all the information I can obtain I certify that
the male adult i)opulatlon of said tribe Is about fifty {(jO), but I am certain
that it ran not oxctHHi sixty (0<0. Given under my hand on the Kickapoo
Reservation this 20th day of June, A. D. 1801.
Samuel L. Patrick.
United States Intlian Agent.
I submit that it would have been impossible for a commission of
strangers to have appeared among a tril>e of Indians who were so
wild and distrustful of being forced into some condition that would
lead to their allotment that the Indian agent who had l)een in charge
of them for years was unable to make an enrollment of tliem or to
even siate their number, and I do not hesitate to state that this certifi-
cate within itself shows clearly that no treaty couhl have been exe-
cuted. Again, the form and character of the certificate does not sliow
that it was ever intended as a certificate that would bi» attac^hed to a
treaty. It will l>e observed that this cei*tificale was executed one day
rrior to the dsiy of the alleged exe<*utioii of the treaty. Airain, the
ndijin agent in his re|)oH to tlu» Department that year certified that
the efforts of the commission to negotiate a tn»nty with the Kick-
jipoos had failed. In his annual report for 1891, written in August
in I yitut-r-iia \Tf iioiini*. -«♦»».' j^m. iiT -jii*ai .Hrrrm.l? -imr^'nrr '£\ teirii. • -n _*'»?ir«%-
n:::i »^.i* ;iir ;t! "li«» fmiw .i.:nini;Lr;irt*ft iir 'in* -wipnnir: -iiT 3Li*i£.i itinif. jlHtm^ ~-i»t jc-k
i»* * mL rill* •:! iH4^ if -iiijf Tvi* ^li«*i:? ft»nr "nur "lai* «*ant:ni4*!ir mnpir ji mmm:
TV'i; -i^^* -n f.'.r-**^ in i:r*i»~mr7 .i.:nr3ii»sii: ip»vfi "Ji**!!!-
1t j» -^jLTirsaitti j LzfUwaz "ii zr^: "tirtni 11 :uvjtoz 1217 Jiin>va::::im Jim 'lit^.r iim-
■if i.lr.nuHfn:. r^t* • -ii^^r'.ir.*** .^.mai.i*r»ii'.ii ainf: "tiift "rthe .n »'-aiii!r. ~v-i'jt a l^^OH
■ti** I.* w.*:;t:i» ^;iii».
±z -III* n;*r ii»*f^r:ii:r v— :i -:!t*ni "^ irznmwiT: vit* ;,r»j*«wirt*il "imn tiii*? w**C8:
jiitcir i-. 1:17 -.an* ;h r-*- '.Kv*«1 unt "iift -wmit- •;♦]«¥ *r itiwt -» ?**ain''* -liiMii "ki
jrai*r u.iiti* -Oil" "uhv 4iii ii.it "ixft jit^JinniJi* ><? "O** Tr^iHKir 'inni.r^.m.rr ^n
4«*f'Mr-^ >ini:i.i«*'i- amn*** 1:1*1. i zn*i«t •rniir:»*'':*»ii*ft iri«ii:r fr^oi -lie »«-»* t "htt
^\:r:*vA. 1: -::.:♦ -01*7 r**:ilt*ft "ini* "in* r*i4«r- i^j;!! vu* id ji.'Sftr ":i;in «'.rfli*:»*nT:
f.r -:i»*»7 11***'::+ -:i:i — : !»*•••• iii»* 'li*Thi. *•--*• 7 .iu'a-t*<f ▼•-.lut )•* *: li'*»rr".7 'iif^*:: -hur-
Ji:i; f.*;L»rA Li»t f:i:ii'?*» "inir f -3j*7 Cit ii>r '.wn "lifr r»J»«*r"'i'.»;a Ir -v^iiLit mr
1»* rsiiT '■ i.tnyth^ \i -mi-: vin'ii tit ini: iwtniir "i -lii*ai. unt .- .:: tv'i* "Jn*ir?i
-^1*7 i.tt i« r \".*\i '■: "H**.. r'ii* •■ -.111111 :}**H*m '.tm.it in inrj.iii:f ^iirjjyr -vvra "litaii,
i-iii Ji*r-* ■::•* it^-^-ria- inn ^ir Tn»* .:L"*2«K::r v^r** ■*jiiii*«L
.'.1 117 I'.r.i I'll -:ii*^* ."^ii:u-iH v'"l ur.ni:i-**7 ii^^'^wr "In* ^mnKwr.i'iii* .;f "in:
•..'.mm.r*»ir.ni*!"*. r'n*^" 1 •* ^7 1:1-^17% «i ^iitH;u»:iin» -:mt •:ti»*7 ir» ♦i«'«v^ *i 'jjiiinrs*-
j.t*:'.i: jn*;r.i..i:r i.:i: irir^: •«-^u-:^^fl- E«n: "iiii:: •:jjft ^u^aiiiur -> ^t^mt^nnsiz iiT "iui:
bi.» III iiT r'*H*r" i-.r.nr* 1 J"*ail7 -7i»n'*ff jir r.nt -in* .n±r.: \i -¥l:-.* ^emwr*
T^.. ..iHm--^ -ii»* *r"-,r '.if -ii**i7 7.ra*»«ir ▼17'* i:nf iOi-'v -i**ni "^i". 'iu«r -lut
-r*]'.ii- -'^iii-i im lint *n "i:is* .riHnaiitji lt* in 'j\nsfRC >»»?«: ic •VHni.iu»i C feiif
TTi.i* .^ -ji* -v .i:»***r imt Jti^nr im^i-'r.iawf "rrh»* imfiw "in* izasn*.?. i»Hii:r ■mrir'siy
•riiiTT': •'!*-( 17 i .ir.ii;^r"tr7'^MW''* •»it^iii*!iii Hht^ :ir»»- -fnnRU-Jiin* iml -inhhiira.
i»*7;mt r*!i;4».ii- nn*7 :r^iH«t "ii rzviz -wj^ -ii* »'":iii*pnK«*ft • naimit«ii!ii imf m-^^
i.vi;-* :!»♦;-.'*•' .-^jf i.^*«»ft -> i»* •fiiiiniHrar^l nninr "Jii* *«ii«i» oii^i "UlUiT
r^.« '^ 111 1:1. 1 1.-7 i.nt IT* lii'-aRft :ii 'i«* **i:f-«i»r;rjiiiiii:
is tiilii •.: ;-;i~^ :»*Hii *XcV-r.i»i.
"^tyiiiTi/.r -T. '.x^^T''. :?. y"*v '*;^ iiiiatt tiT'iJiTT "iitiT" •V'*r» il-i:cxi*ti *<j
.Lk'.r"*** :f -:iz.<: -^juvii, "v-*!:^ "jitty*
JL:. Eiis TLiiT Y-*?i^ -rir..
S*ii;i".:r -':ir:">*7'. i». A:iii nii* •tiLinin* '▼^t- "^"5 be «out *
iL:. ?.'i:<i7iatT. Vj : "A*^ rr^itrp ■:r':'T-'i:»*i: rr-r 'hiin "iii^y iijiiLi
r*i'i*iT* Lz. iL^-rr.. (!»-.- t;i«: niui r.'i.^-.*i: '^cir.** ^'.i;l«i pitj 'hi*!!! 4-^^
I!*!!"-- I" i'*i*» f :•' 'lit* "H:TT'::ti :r. *t. •.»*?*?• ''.f :iii •u.»:rn"j*r.7: •:f •<; -.ii'jp^s
:»Lx;ir.« •* T u* V- :h :':»^iii*ii "•: v!i-T-* r**rxi.»*nii*n' tz.*: ^: V y»iiit fnr *n *fl.JiO
p#*r bT'*.
•*»*■--:»-■': S\:-:s*r:- y, \Zii -iii*t: ■:c»»tL ^ no »««nii»niifni: *
Mr ?.••-■.<■ TTixiT T*^i.. -it: :i.=.ii "in* ^^nrJiflr* jiiiii :8C^iO pi»r :i*!r«: for
22 TRKATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
SiMiator fJoiiNSTON. AVhat is the difference there between how
much hmd they should get and the allotment?
Mr. BEN'n.EY. 5JH,()83 acres. The surplus should have been less
than this because some of the Kickapoos were never allotted. As
I have stated, while it is clahned that through a commission a treaty
was negotiated bearing the signatures of a majority of the adults
of the tribe, yet when the Government came to allot them as pro-
vided by the tieaty it was unable to even then procure their names,
and quite a numlwr of Kickapoos who were equally entitled to land
with the othei's were left homeless, and some were allotted twice.
Most of them refused to be allotted; they protested both before and
after and are protesting yet.
The Chairman. I^et me ask you this: If this treaty is a fraud, are
you basing your claim on a provision of this treaty?
Mr. Bentlev. No, sir; the Government took our land, sold it, and
have not paid u^; we are basing our claim on two propositions. It is
a matter that is with the committee. We have four or five claims
here, «ny one of which exceeds the amount we are asking for, or for
which we nre willing to make a final settlement.
Th(^ Chairman. I am trying to tiQi^ Mr. Bentley, a coherent idea
of what your claim is based on, if you can state it.
Mr. Bentley. In drafting this bill we have based our claim on
article 4 of the treaty of June 28, 18G2, and of the treaty approved
March 8, 1803. I now offer an abstract of the differences growing
out of treaty stipulations going back only to the treaty of 1854, which
will be found on page 8()4, volume 2, ox Treaties, i will first, how-
ever, quote the treaty stipulation to which the abstract relates, which
is as follows :
TREATIES WITH THE KICKAPOOS.
Treaty of EdwardsviUe, SOth of July, 1819, page 182, second volume. Book of
Treaties,
Articlk 1. The nndersljoied chlofR and warriors, for themnelveii and their
Bald tribe, for, and In conRideratlon • • • relinqiiisheil to the United
KtatoH ♦ ♦ ♦ all tlielr landR on the south side of the Wabash River, etc.
Art. i\. ♦ ♦ ♦ The T'nlt<Ml States, In addition to $;i.()00 worth of mer-
chandise which thoy imld to the said tribe hereby ce<1e to them and their heirs
forever a ocrtnin tract of land In the Territory of Missouri included within
the foIlowliiK l)onndaries:
These lands were on the Osage River and its tributary, including
about 2,300,000 acres of the best of the State of Missouri.
Treaty of 1HS2, paye SG5, Book of Treaties (treaty of Caster Hill).
Art. 2. Tlic T'nIttNl Stnt(»H will provide for the KlckaiKK) tribe a country to
reside In sont Invest of the Missouri IMver as their i)ernianent place of residence
as loii^ as tl)<*.v nMiuiln a tribe, and whereas the said KickaixM) trlt)e as are
willing to remove on the following; conditions from the country ced<»d on the
Osa^e Hlvor, In the State of Missouri, to the country selected on the Missouri
Klver north of lands which have been ass{^ie<l to the Delawares, it Is hereby
nprciHl timt the country within tlie following boundaries shall be assifaietl.
con\e.v<Hl, and forever s<H'nn»d and is herel)y so asslpied, conveyed, and secure!
l)y the Tnlted States to the wild KlckaiK>o tribe as tlielr i)erinanent residence,
^iz. l)eKlnnlnj; on the Delaware line.
The land de.scril>ed is in northeast Kansas and the tract contained
J^OO square miles, or approximately 760,000 acres.
V .i- ■ •' ■' : r
. -•■£ / : " . '•■: ;•£.''*
■ > I
>.l .■'.
' .>:"' i'-: :^ '.'i ".^u
24 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
compliance with the treaty of 1862 a tract of 206,000 acres out of
the Creek purchase was, by order of the President, set aside for
them.
The following statement is made in order to show that from each
of several sources there is due these people a far greater sum than
the bill proposes.
BtatemenU
Proceeds of treaty of 1854 $300. 000
Three-fourths of this amount belonged to the Mexican Klckapoos 225, 000
Interest at 5 per cent for fifty-four years 1, 290, 000
1,515,000
The Mexican Kickapoos have received no benefit of this fund, and
if subsequent treaties are to be ignored, this is the proper computa-
tion. If, however, the treaty of 1862 is to be taken into consideration
and nothing back of that date considered, then the United States is
chargeable with the value of such an amount of land in Oklahoma
as could have been bought at $0.30 per acre with the proceeds of the
land in Kansas set aside for them. Their land in Kansas was 123,-
832 acres, which sold for $1.25 per acre, or $167,290. This invested
in land at $0.30 per care would nave given them 557,633 acres.
Sold at tlJSO an acre $836, 449
Interest for fourteen years at 5 per cent 627, 836
1, 463, 785
Again, disregard the treaty of 1862 so far as it relates to the pur-
chase of land m Indian Territory, and take only into consideration
the funds then in the Treasury to the credit of the Kickapoo tribe.
This amount was $161,000, of which these Mexican Kickapoos were
entitled to three-fourths, $120,750; interest at 5 per cent for forty-
six years, $277,225 ; total, $397,975.
Taking into account only the financial part of the treaty of 1862
and adding to this the amount which the Indians should have re-
ceived for their Oklahoma lands with interest for fourteen years, we
have the account stated as follows:
Proceeds of funds in the Treasury $307, 976. 00
Amount yet due from Oklahoma lands 216,126.00
Interest on last item, 5 per cent for fourteen years 151, 2SS, 20
765, 389. 20
If we disregard all treaties prior to 1891 and rest solely upon that
and in addition concede that it was in fact executed the statement
then
183.965 acres sold, at $1.50 per acre $275,914
Deduct amount paid out to Indians 59, 788
Balance yet In Treasury 216,126
Interest, 5 per cent for fourteen years 151,414
367, 414
This is tlio least amount due these Indians under any possible view
of ihc (|U(»sti()n. If we adopt Commissioner I^upp's view and con-
si<l(»r the Oklahoma land upon which they were located by order of
tJjc PresU]eni sls a mere gratuity and say that they therefore are not
loajkra: ^^nr^ci^Ti^xi wits, kepcjjt EKXtycW' nanECAjKi. i*
•«inj:;i*iC: ^-i' :ii:t JciT j:l -w^ fine ciiirsiWTi^fc ^ihoL viiii i!* irii«t.it 3yrr«iBo&
liaaur. lur;f-i:^ jiaii. jc 5 jibt max 3S3C4iS
But ^TT^L if liiifsf LbSsBos sne wdbn»aie& to t&c ixriEmaK <fiif Kin's
liu? f;:i*i c-f -Jirt^cr* — '^ivt jmpvw^^ ^liMt KicufBif iioiS— ^itnj^Bd
rLr iii»: vjisi 'A liLts: i^lHuCi^j jftcrts icuc isisr Msucium i&ibl slkzuqs —
I:l -ii»: 'jit«r -rf Tii»r X*v T^ri Ti^^fiMiif r, As* VjiibisA Sua?* t'lT'Q^
f 'r •.ill* f:.^ isnioirLii -t^f tjiiu^ j»f.jffiT«*td far lift' Hiuiid. «jid 5ii littt ^OK^Rr
TJ"^ !»., Iz. ihin 'ju* lits ]Liid5jcK huii^'r^ -wjccpiftd ills' Iboids sziifl fiie
^cjzr.i'^t :/. -^'l.-;*'!' j»ar h^jrt fw liif ^jfrliArtmti iEud. Ban !&« aimiJitgr
)£t. !E>23ttlzt. TL^'tiCf irauSastA maoA. Hxf-^aot ^^snaaox^ sol inmirad
liiii "Luirpr-iiLryt *ap«.
Tit*: C2-tZ33L£j- All3 it^WT MEUdb SZi ftOTtf
Kj. X'li^ TiiT. Oirtr diCaLT idii £fnr -wuts wt •ane. T!ti?' iiSwr nwre
crrliiii*^! I^tuLzi* v-*3r»r psad iSaa I'^ir «3i£l»r Iku^ mS^ionKr liis
5ji'j£j.:>:»: ^ii-ii^ ir ait»^jic?L. I 1*^% yT.«r>;K«sd imcniiar 2iiicH«r
rr-.^TK-ir '»i:^ '^- ^ijft- Hiaut 5»r5rr2ffluii -tif lift iinwKtj -^rf !*♦!&- Tiis- G^r-
-HTi-iii*!:.* •u •••£ f»ir «!«!K b'-T*? c^ iiciifi vid*2j L*fi ii»iaL 'Wi5*«3 Hufl ^Bsr-
^o'.»'. /♦'♦'.■.. L.it'f H:uf. n f-.r fliSi la: b'.yt. "wii^ irLiiw 3»i«nB dwaawm
'.»r ^r»" .'.*'.♦'. . v.-rui -•zjtiiW^sTt lor i^JTvj-iz'^ jvmsSl. Hi Liif Imat sb> fls^
Tjii*r. Lri.:^-. I'f -lii*- «2j'K"/<'y;» !rw«rr'*d feir ifc* Kuifflitf iKni taMS*
Izif::i:iit zj*'^ *r re'.wj-^w uzlj jiKn id ix. T5i«r% ^«nii Irfi ix Tift* Tnaisizay
-ju*- f-v-ii:!- *•-' till*: '.r^'dui i^f lii** lirrti*' in tii?' Ciiitad isucw* TmeiiHiBry-
2<> TREATY STIPULATIONS WITU MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
The Chairman. The (liiTerencc in the niiinl)er of acres of huul —
351,033 acres, at $1.50 per acre, would be $527,449.50— over a half a
million. Have you ever made any statement of this matter to the
Department, or called their attention to the fact that the treaty
stipulaticms have not been complied with?
Mr. Bkntlky. I never have except during the time that Commis-
sioner Jones was in office.
The Chairman. When was that?
Mr. Bentley. Some six years ago. It was during the time of my
service as Indian agent.
The Chairman. What did they say about it?
Mr. Benti.ey. Commissioner Jones has always said that the In-
dians ought to be paid; that as to the $215,000 growing out of the
last treaty with the Kickapoos there was no question about thfir
right to it, nor as to the ditference in the amount of land, growing
out of the treaty of 18(>2, as you have just figured it, but he said
that it would not do for him to take any a(»ticm in the matter as the
Secretary of the Interior was adverse to the proposition of making
settlements or adjustments with the Indians and lie could not report
favorably because of that fact, and that there was no use asking for
such a report.
The Chairman, lias the Department or the Secretary of the In-
terior ever b(HMi retpiested to make a re|)ort?
Mr. Bentley. So far as I know the Department has never Ix^en
asked for a report exci^pt as to the diiference of $iM 5,000 growing
out of the last treaty in Oklahoma, and they could not have made
much of an effort to asceilain the facts as to that, because they say
the Kickapoo Indians simply held that land bv Executive order.
They did not look ba(*k to see where he got his title. They evidently
ovenooked the treaty of 1802, section 4, and forgot that the United
States bought the land in Indian Territoi-y under the provisions of
this 1802 treaty and paid only .*^0 cents an acre for it.
The Chairman. Who signed that repoi-t ?
Mr. Bentley. Mr. I^Mi|)p. He says, however, that he does not
raise any s(»rious objection to the Indians being paid the $250,000 in
that instance, but he takes the position, as the Indian Ollice always
does, that the Indians had no title to the land for which it was
pro|)osed to pay them.
The CiiAiUMAN. Well, I should raise an objection if we did not
owe it to them.
Mr. Bentley. The Indian Office seldom aclmits that it owes the
Indians anything, as w^as evidence<l in the case of the ( -herokees and
the New York Indians, where judgments were stvured to those In-
dians and confirmed Uy the Si!|)reme Court of the United States,
awarding them nearly $10,000,0(>0. There is scarcely an instance of
that character where the Indian Office admits that it owes the Indians
anvthing, but in nearly every case when the Indians who have
claimed that the (lovernment was indebted to them were permitted to
go into the Court of Claims for an equitable adjustment of their
claims, their contentions were found to be practically true.
The Chairman. Supposing we should put into this bill a pro-
vision appropriating not to ex<*eed $.'*»00J)()() to pay any judgment —
not to exceed that amount that might be given by the Court of
CJ/iiwsf
TWFifgT snPTTLATrirj:?* V.L':£ jf^T'-tAJT E:":'SLi:?^'«j rSTZsCU*. JT
Till* rHjL33t-l3, '.*"ilT !li:i:?
''•'.r 'JiAr. :r :* vti r»"f-*rr»*ii i:*^ ditt vrjiT^JL. trxl "AJrir y all •hi*: !ir't:i2Hr-
frA.-i:i« irj:. ii^ni>»irr^ I f^ I aan -i'iOLx tiii*' 'j^ir^ zLjlsi ivr i±i»^ fn-
ijxz^; liiAS r ajTL :c-.7 ksicr^r for crLiTT^jfAJy a pGTAiii!ft of -Jii* innvir.:
tiiitii :?4-'. xr. =«:-»ii»»r frrTiri*- :±s::i*- ,Vgi.:i:, r^'*. uni:»i::ic <:f 211:1:1*7 wiH b*
a^i •»*?r.i'-* ">.-i" •T-..1 ^Tr^cor" :r.iM:-_ Ami '^Iot -viH nr.n 2t*t*ii i» iri
Aj^7^>-T-r f";jTLi«*r fr':?n "lIii* fTs..'"**'! S'Ar*'^
\{7. Ei^TiaT-, r .i;i--* i:i»: irnib-.rrrT froni ihi»ci ^^ne %rA *±7^
i^r* "- T "•._.••>. I..: •■^rtirs m '!ii»se- PiJiocts. :c::ii:l::i:r ^iLwi-j^-It*** - :■ n^Lrj
•■-7 i^T-. ir.-: "ii::^ "tl >:< ^cn^r Vj a fcj. ■»rruL»*fi:»*ii:: -.Lstn 70': ;.:i~'»- r**-
f '.'{"* 7 -: v-__ Lf r; •»*fxcii» * ]a.ir. he ^ r^HSsiztr viii»jL nh* liilizi* b*t!i»'0€
".iit* 2ir.';_t*7 fr* .V. "::•»: r*-.--*ii S:iir.«L TTii* till v:iii ^j •fn.'^n '.rsx'. 'ia
■:#»i*Ti i^^tar^i •♦MTansi* of tei::!:^ fe«H?i t::; bv zhit E>*car*:ii"i«ir-» :f rise
f >. - -^r:i.r-»*c. i-«: -ir* la-^ r-:i.r7 jr^rr-*!! irro- * •nc'iirii:-!! •Fii»T» i
TT.. r*i: 17-'* "?-»* riim r.:i.T_«*<f ZL tiil-i '.L- nt> o'lC th in, *?i4Tn. »r:tvi* '.has
V** '-JIT- ".i c-^ !a7» -f -«:r^=eL~as. itli-! for rfe.£-» r«i?rr -fci»- Ir.iiiaz:* ir*
v~-l-.ii;r f '•T "'*-t^ '^r.:-T :.*T-iS:n. 2aiiii*<i ir. *ie hill 10 1'"*^:'-^ ^xhi* U2ir.i»fi
rrj'-^ frT.'. ir.'»' iji«: iZ oi'ii'i^iattir/ca. £r.aiir'EiI or onit*rTFi:«f*.
r.»*nn :5 "it* xi.-n.^r: -j^s:***! izL cn7'j:t*cr •r:i*r»»f.f ^h.i" -".#* :.i.r*r. i:"ji
iii.i-. ":•> i r^*!*-.-r _-. f: for i!! ^ixai^ca. Tbft niii-/r^r.:i*!i:r: of •viir>ci!
yir. B^TTTTLZT. E7 'ii* -•*!:«<: r ".r zt^r-^'T^. mchorizfri 07 '.r.i* 2i:i;':r-
77- :f ->.fr -r"'!^ izi !ni;rirZ! rx r»ti!itipi: lejI r«*fi»r^»^ ui*^ mt:cj*7 ;:rTjTjidii
f :r ir. "it* bx_Li-
Tit* Ctt ^nicty. Yon on^zii: *:o -n": 'iii-" ir. -he bilL
if? Br^^TT^jtT r- > _n r.iif* bCL f tcur.j:.. Ii > •ytH'ii.-TilTT c-ro'Tiiiirtfl
tiiin tit* :"•': :r»#*'T:i»r' of 'ii* 'vtrTtnr, oc "viii'i tii* 2i»:ci*7 -iiiH b*
pii-i ti::iZ '•* t r^'HLtr ii f;Z inii »iall b-e ::i!i«:ir=*»ii.
Ti^ :7h.lIjLscjljf- *jrL lint II of dusr ira; ptg^ of die biZ i ii*
ifr. &175TI-ZT. It fTr:hi*r yvr^^j^ ^h* T.a.i:n*r of boi.:;r^ tas
28 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
clerk of the United States district court so that there will be no ques-
tion about the proceedings being authentic or tlie indorsement con-
templated being a final receipt.
The Chair3ian. I think you ought to strike out in line 6 the words
"for differences." What does that mean?
Mr. Bentley. Well, going back to 1819, there have been various
agreements or treaties
The Chairman. No; it is a question of the lan^age.
Mr. Bentley. Some are tenned treaties and some are termed
agreements, and the term " treaty or agreement " was used so as to
exclude the Indian from making any further claim of any kind or
character against the United States.
The Chairman. The bill appropriates $300,000 for the fulfillment
of certain treaty obligations to the Mexican Kickapoo Indians. If
vou should stop there I could understand it, but you go on and say
^*for differences arising out of stipulations."
Mr. Bentley. Well, we might have confined it to that I tliink as
the Chairman suggests it would be clearer and just as effective.
The Chairman. If it should read "for the fulfillment of certain
treaty obligations to the Mexican Kickapoo Indians arising out of
the treaty of June 28, 1862," I tliink it would be more intelligible.
Mr. Bentley. We will be glad to accept any suggestions from the
committee. The purpose of the language was simply to cover any
claim the Indians may have against the Government after this con-
templated payment has been made. I agree with the chairman that
it is immaterial as a matter of fact wheuier the word " agreements "
is used or not.
The Chairman. You say on the next page that it shall be a receipt
in full for all demands. Now, can you make this matter any clearer?
Senator Stone. I^t me ask you a question to see if I understand
Jrou. The basis of your claim is that the Kickapoo Indians owned
ands in Kansas ?
Mr Bentlef. Yes, sir.
Senator Stone. They sold 123,000 odd acres to the Government at
$1.25 an acre?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; at $1.25 an acre — that is, the Government
took it and agreed with them that it should not be sold for less than
$1.25.
Senator Stone. The Government took it at $1.25 an acre?
Mr. Bknti.ey. Yes, sir.
Senator Stone. How much did the Gk)vemment soil it for?
Mr. Benti^ey-. It is claimed that they sold it for $2.50 to the Pikes
Peak Railway Company.
Senator Stone. Do you base any claim on that?
Mr. Bknti.ey. No, sir; we do not in this proposed settlement.
Senator Stone. I ask the question because I thought you did.
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; we do not. We base the claim solely on the
positive treaty stipulations which said: '* Provided, that Uiis land
shall he sold at not less than $1,25 per acre." (Fourth article treaty
of 18(>2.) This shows an indebtedness to the Indians of more than
we are now otrerin<r to take as a final settlement.
Senator Stonk. The treaty stipulation was that they would take
that moni»y which was realized from the sale of the 123,000 acres and
iJj. ijEnnLrr. Ti&. sir: tiit izdr*» frciiL vLuil liie Go'Z'amzDfliir
:^*2it*.:r *r7':3nL. And liaKt pniif' vitf 4*1' qbdxs par monrf
Itr.. x".jy!i!Lrr- T*s. sir..
"Lirtr 'viiiit*: <: V "Lit*- Ti!rvKJ*»C2* uTisiiir i^'uiL TiLfr liJluCKK' h'-!re»^ ni r.tif ILiiiiiaj
j^rrr^oTT iiuiic isi -111' '-jyin* jll u'jrt xl vouic litT* ifOit^^iL. ix 2*&iiiiid
Mj. 3>jj^tlai. . T**»j. sir.
r^*!i;t;,:ir 2!!!ityi. Bin msiiBiid li* C^^^^ranuoiit ifcna^n cajj if-^KU'I^©
Tiit * . -: t ziiW: f > Ai iiDv aiiuri sx hart f
!Mj. I:»i3 rriiiT . Ti-inj '.i«in$ iul u'jTfc.
•viit-^.c ^7 AX. >"'nF- Tnur itiiL k TJiicT lit? «Gr?n«Hriim«ni A^nLld
Kj- i»EyT!!L23. y^r- sir: "v:ill liit IcHhJJi^j ftdd&a.
J*^!. X'.Oi'TILXT. Al ^1,T#'I' LX bonb.
>!• LdJTi^T. A* li*!: ritufTrntmn iirizrwd e f*^ luunHn.if h^r^.u ar i
^M'i''-44:r.;»iL no; Kirmsur iiTu^raa ice icunVfeL TwaLTL. Tii*^ ic-i^iflr
t»^v*«L I'It '.!*!irs T»*r KSPt laid l\L^»':' la. h^st zs-vn/rhig om t^ "Liit
i'> .'.r«l b'r** 'Li;L': "Lit*: {jronpenixLisixt CLii ufTTiiiiZT- jmr'jint^ft' Icir lii*- Ix-
i_it.iif.. :rr i.:»:ir ir'iiiL mjam iriiiiciin lii^ir ^r^Ci^+eiu-.
3«fj. i'i3-7:LZT. y*tr- sir: tun "liht did urn pax Bamiime Icir tSj*- fif-
f *?:-*ni'j»^ ir a'j[!'^Lir^ t»Hrv*«L iiiit fajDcnnri rf snTtha. or IrJl -*♦*;»;» barest
I 111 :^*^ '.ir^£":iiL>, i5>' .!»>!• borers Air*!: litt Iiifiiiai§ w^ir^ M^ifCUtA i^Uanr
V *-j'*^ 1*^ -•**.•• bsr**f j*^^i„
S^nihTu-.c ^t: yx. _^:icii»fC om erf "P'luci I
Kj. BrsTTiMU. TiH: ii:HuC»:»^j bc%.
^»*':.t::»: rT'.yx 7'ii**l liiti:^ v«rt IrJlufKil' b?r»» jgfi in iRnmDOii md
111* 'jr: -'^ «naii*m; icr.c ^liKi •
Mr. i-iivTUT. T-ei^ s^-: Tin-r v.ni litKi loid -H^ud ii fur sii'ii u jiriae
'i-i:ta "iit CLif ^Er^HiiK- :hcv-!«l T'iit.i 'di»T jikid lii*^ liiiaaii laii -g-run liiif.
^-t:it:.:ir St:3*x 'WTiib-i did liiit «'jrtnHinaii«xn gsi l-iir ii t
>«iiicuir ih'-'/.^i^ W*;Kt did "uXie- S^idiuK gat I
Mr. EcF!DUC9:. Xii^ gui 4l3^ oenui.
30 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
Senator Stone. Then there would be $1.17^ cents per acre on
183,965 acres?
Mr. Bentley. About that; it fio:ures out $216,239.
Senator Sr^ne. Now you want to add that sum to the difference
between 206,000 and 557,863 acres at $1.60 an acre, or 351,633 acres
at $1.50 an acre, $527,449.50, to which you should add $215,239, mak-
ing a total of $742,6S8.50, growing out of two treaties, the last treaty
of 1893 and that of 1862.
You claim the aggregate of both of these sums, whidi is approxi-
mately $800,000?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; to be exact, it is $742,688.50 in those two
instances.
Senator Stone. Is there any other?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; we claim $161,000 that was put in the
Treasury, growing out of the sale of 600,000 acres of land in Kansas
under the terms of the treaties of 1854 and 1862, which these In-
dians never got any part of. Thev went off and left it, but the con-
cluding paragrapli of article 4 or the treaty of 1862 provided spe-
cifically that the Indians who moved south should not forfeit any
interest in the tribal fund then in the Treasury. Again, it will he
observed that the last treaty, that of 1893, with the Kickapoo In-
dians did not provide for any release of claims arising out oi or due
them from former treaties, and in equity we would be entitled to
$161,000 with interest for forty-five years.
Senator Stone. You mean that the Government sold 600,000 of
the 750,000 acres in Kansas?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir: and tlie Indians who went away were never
faid any part of that, those now known as the Mexican Kickapoos.
t was principally paid to or expended for the Kansas Kickapoos.
Senator Stone. What proportion of the tribe went to the Indian
Territory?
Mr. Benti.ey. More than three-fourths of them.
Senator Stone. And three-fourths of them got no part of the pro-
ceeds of the sale of the 600,000 acres?
Mr. Bentlev. No, sir; as I have said, that has since been paid out
to the Kansas Kickapoos.
Senator Stone. The whole of it?
Mr. Bentley. I think it has all been paid, or there was a bill
passed last session providing for such payment. I think it was dis-
tributed per capita among them within the past summer.
Senator Stone. You mean one-fourth of the tribe got the whole
money ?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir. If we should be permitted to sue the Gk)V-
ernment we would re(*over in the light of recent decisions of the Su-
preme Court about $2,800,000, for differences growing out of the sev-
eral treaties.
The Chairman. How did the Government get title to this land that
was owned by the Kickapoos who went into Mexico?
Senator Johnston. By the treaty.
Mr. Benti.ey. The treaty approved March 3, 1803, ceded this land
to the United States. These lands wen* tirst patented to the Creek
Indians by the Uiiited States, then bought back of them at $0.30 per
acre, and then tliey were given to the Kickapoos in excliange for
Kansas lands.
J.
'^h
\ -- .
J
V
\z.
I>l:^
71
^.i1
•■
Ll \
...
..1
Tgf.ftTT 4'"J-J'L-.ET"vF2- WJ'J^d KO^Cty 5r-r3E'?»CiC» isn^xiRE. 31
Til* •*' Ti.tZJLJCtJ^. Ti' "wii-.H^f- '.r»tiin iritt lift j.rjT'.iLa:* jcvyt lioc va«
'•'» » ». b'.r*^ ' f .1 :•! ii K.iJi:^ii- *' Tii*^ ":ir:i/**e:.- -.f t1:i/i ItLTid. ^vi.i. .(KfCL
-"i.:-: •":. uii:»:^ \ixh irl:**: i:T:,i*ti t'xrjT liiti "cm*- tjji tii*- M.^.3;:i'.aui.
K. i.i ;•■»'.»- ■:'^-Zi*c t*»ciin TiL?»i*-f ■.rjrtirf' cf it amd I'j -Lrenirr id ncn
-»*''" ■•-I'ti'*'.: .t:i vf uiid c_ii ii-.n £»r^
M/ lu-'TULT. 7^11 "V hr r*1'jeiX*t6 IT lii** TU^C SULliftt Trii*31. lift
..I'.i. VI.- -i'.ui.. J --.;•:»>•»!: liibiT vur L r=^:i*in.- fvjLii itijd vt*- pm in
i.'s^. I; ''••:>^ iitT*- t:»*^i *:• ^untitmifT'* ^t^-cj'L
: L ;tivr: :: 'j.Hr fuLii irr-.v-ji-i: 'xj^ \i 'vis^^ irit§ cur vi w^
•iJLHr .. ' ' -■^•:**: ••**•**:" »'••;. "l K.iuii*iit* u"'**'kLkix iT-iin- -.iit stj*- ^- *ii*-
-I.' : > . .•••'".:- "^ : * y -• * JLi'-clzkicH" tLc t**!:: h:i;:*uL riix'Tr^d Iiit*: ^.^mD
Lr:-vj-»: ■: MH- :r*i»TT •. : lv.*i: iiui. j»ri:*r T*t' luiTi Tzcit. irT^c lu c* cr
.•-**- ~ ' .'lif-ij. 3*'rr''»'.*r7"- tiiri i^i/C jierj'.cj*;Ll?T ".•'[v.v/Tid*^:. tzii. '.luj-
:.M*-: • •■ •* -f "uii*: j:V.c.:^j':ilI ^diijd .'z. lit? O'^twt Xiiitictt "LLtci irMg
"uii^ 'rr'.w- f ". • i T^riiT irL-:**!: ^"ij'& ij^'t' j*^f: or vtr* siiic-fwd I1&
ill-* :■' .'.•.■.--/''••■: "i^^j r m- i . :jli^ Kljusl^ ^iuL»i. Tii*- j .■rviffwu
:»»^ l_T_-x V .:^ "uii*^ t'_.i. :i:V.>f« •itfiv'*faii liiit WitiLrt* mij^^ lii?' Sctinii OuDft-
-.•T •**— -111.' -^ lr-!iv'. Tiicru^ TirfT irwator.jT mr.'jjTiws ice- cicit^idflr-
•<«:-'i f 31 1. SL-..** *i::t.' 'L*i*7' HiiiiXLid t»*- v^jry^i f^v litw*. Tlii*' *surrr
Lr-"it •-•'.»- : - Till*: !r^i! -wTar r-n^a^^ jufim oi liiwt Kadtvp^Kfc t»g» r*!r.iirii
I: -♦j.i.'j'-.hr. L.-rf t' *ii*- :n:f*' : f liit*' ffia^rrjia^yL c-f Tin- Tj»:tTT ?d i^A
.■iij'.*r*- w-T*'*::- *: "Lii*'!! *■'•'»'* lirt- "wnx- Kiid cit.iKfri fe zziHTC^riTT :•. r»^r.::n:
fc'-t 1 •i'i! . TTS*^ LX'L.::! ill*- "TiuT' "ilinrjr*ttlji^1*5r V/lIlr***": ^II*^!! "■'• VJ'.'Xvf
V- ^ V L_": L."!-: s.-*. :.o "ti*- _:''ii:ii- '. f T*t;u* ••■.' t' ■ .-: ■":■*■ vt. fjT. Lf
*^vi'.^ •;:»*■ '■ '.in* Z't-*^ -"- "^'j^ vr*. Xiit 'vc in«i c=f *li* ij".***- lit"^*-
::•!?: ii'»r :Lt* Titer didiT szyjw Triiin Ti» Tirirui- pftijit -ir«pe -Hg^iT-r.g
32 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KICKAPOO INDIANS.
each other for, and for that reason they moved away, intending to
return when peace would permit them.
The Chairman. The claim that you think you could establish
growing out of the fourth article of the treaty of 1862 would amount
to nearly a million dollars?
Mr. Bentley. Beyond any question, and without interest
The Chairman. And you are willing to settle the whole of them
for $300,000?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir.
The Chairman. Is that all the claim you have?
Mr. Bentley. That is all the claim we care to present at this time.
Figuring interest, the Government owes us on the different items
growing out of the treaties, beginning in 1854, in excess of $2,800,000,
giving us, of course, the benefit of the law as it has been construed
m identical cases" heretofore. We are not contending for any exact
differences, but are willing to receipt to the United States in full and
accept the $300,000.
Senator Johnston. What claim would you have if this treaty of
June, 1891, was a valid treaty?
Mr. Bentley. If that was a valid and absolute treaty it would not
change our status as to any of these claims, because under a recent
decision we would be entitled to the difference for which we contend
growing out of the treaties referred to or any other, as no rights were
waived under the last treaty relating to prior treaties.
Senator Johnston. You mean $1.18 an acre on 183,965 acres?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; and the amount due under the treaty of
1862.
Senator Stone. About $215,000?
Mr. Benti.ey. Yes, sir.
Senator Johnston. If this treaty was valid, your just and legal
claim would be for $1.18?
Mr. Bentley. Yes, sir; or $215,239. Had the treaty been made
understandingly and been thoroughly honest, the Kickapoos would
have been entitled under this treaty to the difference, which, to be
exact, was $1.17^ an acre with interest.
Senator Johnston. Now, does not your case rest largely upon the
invalidity of this treaty or the fraudulency of it ?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; though it was an absolute fraud, as the
Government records heretofore cited and the circumstances positively
show.
Senator Johnston. Would not this, being the last agreement be-
tween the Government of the United States and this tribe of Indians,
eliminate everything else that preceded it as a legal proposition ii
it had l>een a valid and an honest treaty?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; because it <ioes not carry any provision
for relinquishment of rights under former treaties, so that all rights
under treaties of 1862 and 1854 are still preserved to them.
The Chairman. Does it not say that it does?
Mr. Bentley. No, sir; I have carefully examined it, and it con-
tains no such provision, either positive or implied. In the consider-
ation of this question it shoula be observed that at the time of the
execution of all the treaties these people were still wards of the
United States, and that their citizenship only became absolute after
laiJkTi *:-r-.--t:.-.3i i-.r^i 'jcij^:t% x-.-:xa5*:c zj^j^c^j^ ^
ef "it*- fb!r» zzixr*^ zi»^ v*r» vij-itf tiii zi "ijh ^'.'^'^tlz'j'^cTl t-ii iii*:
^di'.c. "^_Tii ":JLi*!r. :*erT^ '■rjZiir'it.-T n. Iftftl uiif If''-4- trji iz. I •■'•-♦'.
U- ^-^i *T.i"*^- xl_.'.ii T*'.*-:'-''?! I :»'j!n : i^-: vz'l. iViii I?<>1. iz.if •i:-i:«e
•tf -*^ -^ ■ -r. ~-*ir* :*r zii'.«r- iJiii": Tjj*"r iiit* t****!! ;-f:i*r 21 t *T:T»»^!rT"j^:G_
S^.i*'.'-' -T-.v^*"? > Il»: T'.r. izi'.n? r- ;* Iz'tL-xn v"!!: ^^kZs^ '"-^i^^*
!•!_' I -.nzT y-»--- fir. ir 1^ t 7?-*rr.i-_r.:i' irjf g. Z'.Ij^z. rj
!•'.•'.
-1-1 - ' M : ii: I . - ■... r '.j : . -..jz- «^ p. rT- t:..'.:iii^ l^ Aiiirs vf Kitii-
S^ •• ii ' : »r ^" : z: * *t ': i^ . Z"* : 7 : » 1 jzi* : "v Kl:*ii— '.— • Tt 21- t»*^ f
r»?*i«i,'Li' -.c Tiiiin it»: vk* ^^.:z:z k p'r;«i*=£ kjrkl:L*^ ztjxszzzz 'i^. x^^^skzj.
f.ff zi^vriiir lA Zy'.c rr.nh <r':i*r* iri.r.. ^ltz^z 'wrsTi. 1z3l "w-tr* >^*r tv
Tli.>^j»t 17 'J":!^ Si'jctTo: Iiif-Jij* Ti^ 2i:ke- kz j ■:j»;rrT Vr«j; — .g^ v-- li?-
t .i'r:r:»*ti:: : f rii^ir r^sf^tr" kTj.c
Y,7. E^-3TL£T- Y«* sir: 'Jit^T ▼•*?»: '.cJrr k 'i-w-r ^M» T-.n -p-Z! -i;!:-
«trx^- Vif:- !anii*: bsrt pr^si3i;kiCT -cifffr -±3^ ixcLif^ctTT rf kE- tfi*
84 TREATY STIPULATIONS WITH MEXICAN KIOKAPOO INDIANS.
positive proof that they were not. * No persons of such names as those
who are purported to have made this treaty or authorized it were ever
allotted or identified, except as I have stated heretofore.
Senator Stone. Mr. Chairman, I expect that that concludes all that
we desire to ascertain. Would it not oe a very proper thing to have
this statement of Mr. Bentley's printed and forwarded with a letter
to the Secretary of the Interior, asking him to personally read it and
look into the facts of this case and report to this committee?
The Chairman. I think that should be done.
Senator Stone. We would like to hear what that side have to say
about it.
The Chair»ian. I do not like to decide a case on an ex parte state-
ment of this kind, and Senator La Follette, who is more or less fa-
miliar with this matter, in going out of the room this morning said
that he thought we had better have our hearing, and that this would
be the advisable course to pursue.
Mr. Bentley. I hope the committee, after such report has been re-
ceived, will take into account the extreme prejudice existing in the
Indian Office against these Indians, and I wish to say that the clerks
to whom this matter will be referred in the Indian Office, and who
undoubtedly will prepare the opinion of the Commissioner, have so
little idea of law, enuity, or justice, as I will show from their opinions
heretofore renderea in this and other phases of the Kickapoo matter,
that their opinion should not entitle them to very much considera-
tion. They have heretofore recommended to the Department that
some item of legislation should be enacted giving the Secretary of
the Interior authority to cancel the aHotnients of Indians who went
beyond the jurisdiction of the United States, which in effect would
be confiscation of the estate of a citizen of the United States because
he availed himself of one of the privileges of citizenship. Under
date of December 14, 1005, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, by
letter to the Secretary, said in part;
• • • The supervisor roconimetids that Inimcdinte IcRlRlntlon be nskod for
and that stops !)e (nken nt once to obtahi authorily from CoiiKrcHS whereby the
allotments of all Indliins niijtrratlng to a forelj;n connti*y for the purpose of resl
dence can be canceled. • • ♦ It ml^ht be that lejrislatlon conferring? dis-
cretion upon the Secretary of the Interior to cancel allotnuuits made to Indians
who chose to migrate to a foreij^ country wbuld meet the situation as to the
future. • • ♦
Very respectfully, Francis E. Leupp,
CommiHHioncr.
In another letter of the same date addressed to the Secretary of
the Interior the Commissioner said:
But as the prcHcnce of some of them will be necessary to carry out succenr
fully the views entertained here In the matter of the prosecution of Hentley
and the lltlpitlon over the deeds he prcK'ured and they can only be ohlnhiiMl
with dinieulty imless they be IndlcttMl and brought back on criminal charK«»s.
(See p. li)lS, third ><»lume Klckai)oo Invcrstlgatlon.)
Numerous siniilnr paraofraphs mi^ht be cited in the record sliow-
inp; similar lack of knowledge as to the law and a total lack of any
sense of justice. I have made the-e citations to show yon that
matters of tliis kind should not, in justice to the Indians, be referred
for opinions and recommendations to tlie Indian Office. ll<)wev(»r,
they have fhe records and of course micrht be relied upon as to such
sper'iFir facts as ure sliown by the record.
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11