|
Nathaniel Smith:
Correspondence Regarding Cherokee Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1110. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
1837
April - 1837:
Emigration
Cherokee – S289
0153
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Corrs.
Ind Affairs
24th April 1837
Sir,
In my letter to you of the 28th last month, I informed
you that I had sent collecting agents to the different parts of the
Cherokee Country to ascertain if a Detachment could be collected to
leave for the west early [?] next month.
These agents have returned and report that they found but one family
of the [?] that are willing to remove this spring.
The Cherokees who say anything about removing, say they will go this
fall, but a large majority of them will not talk on the subject,
particularly the over Hill Landing (all so called that [?] part of
the road [?] [?] from [?]
Tennessee by [?] [?] to
Georgia)
[?] 6,000 in [?]. Ask them when they are going to remove west and
they will answer you by saying they would rather die here than go
west to die.
This is the feeling of at least 99 out of the 100 of that part of
the nation. I have not yet been able to get [?] part of that bounds
to emigrate. One individual John (Love, a half breed) attended at
New Echota where the treaty was made, Mr. Schermerhorn there given
him a public blanket. When he returned home to the Valley Tennessee
and let it be known that the blanket was given him by a [?] state
officer, the Indians collected took his [crossed out]
0154
blanket from him, made a fire and burned and danced around it. This
will give you some idea of their feeling, but I do assure you that
nothing but the presence of the military force keeps them from
shedding of blood. They say that the Treaty making party does not
consist of more than five hundred persons. The balance (?) I
discover are the adherents of Mr. John Ross and are more devoted to
him than I have ever seen persons devoted to any man.
Genl. Wool is now making a tour through their country and giving
them talks in which he urges on them the prosperity of their early
embracing the provisions of the Treaty and preparing to be off at
least half the tribe this fall, that he will not suffer them all to
remain and be forced off at the end of the 2 years that at least
half must go this fall.
This tour of the Generals I think will have a good effect. The
Indians both love and fear him, and I think will pay attention to
what he says to them, particularly at this tour as information has
just reached the Indians that John Ross and his delegation had been
viewed by the President Mr. Van Buren and treated very kindly and
friendly, but told by him that nothing could be done to alter or
annul the treaty, that it had been ratified by the Senate.
Appropriations made to carry it into [?] effect and must be
enacted. This information I think will cause the most of the
leading Ross men to come into the measures of the Government
0155
and prepare
to be off early this fall.
I have dispersed with the services (for the present) of all the
agents at the different stations except McCollough and D[?]. Then I
shall return (?) to issue to the emigrants that are collected and
collect such as may get ready and wish to remove in [?].
I am very respectfully,
Nat Smith
Supt. Of Removal
P.S. Since writing the above I am informed by a Cherokee of the Ross
party that a letter was read to a [?] of Cherokees (collected for
the purpose at Lewis Rosses at five evenings since) from Jno Ross in
which he informs them that he had one interview with the President
Mr. Van Buren at which himself and delegation was treated very
kindly and friendly, but told candidly that nothing could be done to
alter or annul the treaty. He (Ross) speaks very kindly of the
President and advises, that as many of his people as possible get
ready to be off for the west this fall, that they must in patience
do the best they can (that he is done). If this is the fact and I
have no reason to doubt this, we may prepare for at least 8,000 to
[?] immigrate this fall, and I will not be surprised if 10,000 goes
if they can be provided for.
The favorable impressions that the President made on the delegation
at this interview I have no doubt
0156
will have a very happy effect on the future movements of the
Cherokees.
Very respectfully
Nat. Smith
Supt.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S289. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokee - S290
0158
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
26th April 1837
Sir
I have the honor to inform you that two of the agents (Myers Cannon
and Tunny (?)) who went with the Detachment of Cherokees West, have
returned to this place, having made the trip in 28 days (7 of which
they did not travel). They report that Doctor Young (Conducting
Agent) mustered out of the boats every individual that was here
mustered in, not a death or birth occurred, that they left the
Indians in good health and spirits, and very much delighted with
their new homes.
This highly favoured trip and the substance of Mr. Jno Ross’s letter
made known, will have a wonderful influence on future emigration,
the prospects for which are now daily brightening.
Very Respectfully,
Nat. Smith
Supt. of Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S290. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
May - 1837:
Emigration
Cherokee – S313
0160
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
10h May 1837
Sir,
As I anticipated, the news of Mr. Jno Ross, not being able in his
late interview with the President Mr. Van Buren, to get any
alteration or modification of the treaty, has spread rapidly, and
made a great change in the prospects for emigration.
About 130 Cherokees have enrolled themselves at this place and Ross’
Landing since I last wrote you who say they will go, whenever I say
they must, but I would prefer not to leave until Sept. next.
If I can get a party of only 500 willing to go early in next month,
I will send them. I find very few that are willing to leave until
fall, and I doubt the policy of sending them in warm weather unless
they are entirely agreed. From the best information I can get,
there are 4 or 500 families of the Cherokees in Tennessee, Georgia,
and Alabama (but chiefly in Georgia) that have been turned out of
their houses and farms by the whites and who are now living in camps
in the woods and have no place to raise any thing to subsist on.
Those of them who make complaint to me, and I find wrongfully turned
out (which is in 19 cases out of 20) I repossess, agreeably to the
16th article of the treaty. I am endeavouring to get as
many of these, and all others, to come in and receive rations, until
I am in readiness to send them off. I have
0161
had to put two white men and their families out of the
Tennessee part of the
Cherokee Country before I could make them let the Indians alone.
I learn with deep regret that the Hon. Secretary of War has issued
an order relieving Genl. Wool from his command here. This measure
will seriously injure the cause of emigration. I have written the
Hon. Secretary, my views on the subject, and I do predict that the
most serious consequences will grow out of his leaving at this
time. The Indians and whites, generally, have every confidence in
his just, efficient and decisive course. And no man can come here
and render the government and the Indians as much service as he can.
Very respectfully,
Nat. Smith
Supt. Of Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S313. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokee – S342
0164
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
[?] McNairs C. N.
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
17h May 1837
Sir
The Cherokees continue to come in and enroll. I have now at the
different points of collecting, near 400 enrolled who are receiving
rationing, and the numbers increasing daily. Doctor young and all
the agents who accompanied the first detachment have returned, all
in good health.
Very respectfully
Nat. Smith
Supt. Of Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S342. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
June - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S368
0173
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Jun 5th, 1837
Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of
the 20th ult. transmitting copies of two letters from
Lieut. Van Horne and an extract of one from Doctor Minis. As Lieut.
Van Horne condemns the course I pursued in removing the last
detachment of Cherokees to the west, and has been fit to make
charges of a nature involving the rectitude of my official conduct,
I deem it but justified to give you a statement of all the facts
connected therewith in order to enable you to judge whether there be
any truth in his allegations.
When I entered upon the duties of Superintendent of Cherokee
Removals as I stated to you in a former communication, on my arrival
at New Echota, GA on the 23rd of January las, Genl. Wool
informed me that he had been subsisting from three to four
0174
hundred
Cherokees who were willing to remove west in the spring, and that as
the provisions were nearly exhausted he invited me to take charge of
them, which I accordingly did. I borrowed some provisions from the
Genl. as none were to be purchased at or near that place and
immediately commenced making preparations to remove them to the
river where provisions could be obtained at a less cost, and where
they might be kept in readiness to embark for the west at a moments’
warning. Where I made known to the Indians that I was ready to send
them either to this place in Ross’ Landing, whichever they might
prefer, a large majority of them preferred to leave until their
subsistence was commuted, alleging as a reason that Cherokees
heretofore removed west were provisioned by the government officers
with the promise that they would be paid for their improvements and
receive a commutation for a year’s subsistence on their arrival at
their new homes, and that when they arrived there they could not
obtain either. On the contrary, they were compelled to take their
rations in
0175
kind to
obtain which they were constrained to settle in the vicinity of the
agency where they were issued, in order that they might be enabled
to draw every three or four days, or otherwise lose them. By this
means they were prevented from removing to the interior where they
intended to fix their permanent homes. This information they stated
was obtained from many Cherokees then in this country who had
removed west and returned to adjust their claims. Maj. Ridge and
other leaders of the treaty making party urged the Indians to
commute before they left – asserting that they had a right to this
commutation under the treaty, and that it might to be paid them. I
consulted the commissioners who differed in opinion on the subject.
Mr. Lumpkin thought that I ought to pay them before they removed and
Mr. Kennedy was of opinion that they should not be paid until they
arrived at their new homes. They told me however to act as I though
proper as in either case I would have one of them to coincide with
me. I then consulted Genl. Wool and Col. Jno Williams both of whom
were of opinion
0176
that I could
with great advantage to the service and safety to myself pay them
before they took their departure. John Ridge urged the subject most
clamorously and said that when the treaty was under discussion it
was understood by the Cherokees that they were to obtain their
commutation east, and in support of his opinion quoted the words of
the 8th article where it is stated, “and such persons and families
as in the opinion of the emigrating agent are capable of removing
and subsisting themselves shall be permitted to do etc”, and argued
that the emigrating agent was the sole judge as to who should be
allowed to commute; and that as his station was east if they removed
west without it, they would in all probability be compelled to
receive their rations in kind, as was the case with many who had
previously emigrated. Under these circumstances I had to decide
whether I should commute their subsistence and remove as many as
possible, speedily and to their satisfaction; or refuse to commute,
bring down upon me the opposition and ill-will of the whole treaty
making party, and fail in removing any. I resolved after mature
deliberation
0177
to adopt the
former course believing it to be the true feeling of the government
and satisfied that I was the only one by which I could succeed in
starting a detachment. In allowing them to commute I was as careful
as I possibly could be to see that more received their allowance
save those who knew how to care of it. Owing to many being unknown
to me, some few may have received it who should not; although every
precaution was taken to avoid such a result. I requested the
Cherokee committee then in session to decide, and did not commute
for any unless recommended by them, and in some instances refused to
commute after they had been recommended when I believed the
applicants to be incapable of making a prudent use of their money.
In starting the party I purchased and forwarded with them 78 barrels
of flour, near 12,000 lbs. of bacon, and about 150 bushels of corn
meal. To convey the last item I purchased domestic and had sacks
made and directed Dr. Young as they were expected to give them to
the poor Cherokees
0178
of the
party. My reason for sending such a quantity of provisions was to
guard against the emigrants suffering in case of detention on the
way, as had been the case with all the parties previously removed by
water as I was informed, none of which had ever reached their
destination in less than ten weeks, and that last party had been
even three months on the way and suffered greatly from provisions.
Another reason was that I purchased the articles cheaper than they
could have been obtained in any part of the
United States
viz; 50 barrels of flour at $8.00 per barrel and 200 at $7.50 –
bacon at 11 cts per lb., and corn meal at less than sixty cents per
bushel. This was transported with the Cherokees at a very trifling
additional expense. As these articles must necessarily have been in
great demand in the west, and would if thrown into the market bring
considerably more than cost the sale of the surplus should there be
any I suppose would be an easy matter; and it is not a little
astonishing to me that Mr. Van Horne should complain of having this
0179
duty selling
a few barrels of flour and a few hundred pounds of bacon imposed
upon him. Of course it cannot be supposed by anyone that I
possessed data sufficient when the party started to have enabled me
to form a precise estimate of the quantity of provisions the
emigrants would require. Either a surplus or deficiency in his
arrival of the party west was rendered therefore extremely probable;
and I presume the commissioner will agree with me in opinion that of
the two alternatives it was desirable to avoid the latter.
I herewith transmit a copy of my instructions to the conducting
agent Dr. Young marked A. The doctor was taken sick with the
measles on this day the party arrived at its destination and was
confined to his bed fifteen days. This he informed me was the cause
of his leaving the party.
As respects the promises of the agents to the emigrants that they
would be paid their commutation on their arrival west, it was
necessary to make them in order to induce them to remove. Even
those
0180
who were in
favor of the treaty refused to leave under any other conditions.
In Mr. Van Horne’s letter of the 3rd ult. he is pleased
to state, “yet about two thirds of the party agreeable to a roll
handed me by Col. Armstrong were paid both his commuted allowance
for transportation and subsistence east of the
Mississippi.” This
assertion I pronounced utterly false and without the least
foundation. As respects their commuted transportation, there were
but ten persons out of the 466 that did commute, viz; Saml.
McCameron and family, consisting of eight persons, and Leonard and
William Hicks. They commuted at New Echota, GA with a view to
remove themselves, and subsequently changed their minds and resolved
to go by water with their friends. At
Tuscumbria,
Ala. on the day his
boat left they refunded to me the amount paid ($90 per head) for
which I gave them my receipt, and appointed their names on a
0181
roll
previously prepared in my own hand writing of those who had commuted
their transportation and subsistence I entered “refunded”. This
money I have none in my possession.
On taking the emigrants from this place and Ross’ and Gunter’s
Landings, I had to purchase eleven flat boats at a cost of near
$400. On my arrival at
Decatur the river was so
low that I could not get them over the shoals with safety and in
time, and I therefore left them with a commission merchant at that
place to sell as lighters to freight cotton over the shoals, and had
the Cherokees transported to Tuscumbria on the railroad. This
commission merchant had directions to sell them as soon as possible,
and remit me the proceeds, which when received I will turn over to
one of the disbursing agents, together with the $200 above mentioned
– take their
0182
receipts
therefore and forward them to your office.
Mr. Van Horne further says “that instructions to his superintendent
east require him to forward to me rolls in detail of all who
emigrate. Yet members continue to arrive by land who inform me that
they have not received their allowance “among these are Tho. B.
Wattie, Storie etc. “. There are Cherokees of whom I know nothing,
and I am informed that at least one hundred young men have left
since the ratification of the treaty without the knowledge of the
superintendent, and without arranging their business. This is a
matter not in my power to control.
As regards the commutation subsistence of David Gade it is quite
probable that it was paid to Calvin Wolf as stated by Mr. Van
Horne. Wolf and Gade are brothers-in-law, and lodged and drew
rations together for some time at New
0183
Echota. This
was the case with many families of Cherokees. When I commenced
making out their accounts for commutation the head of the family
gave in the names of all who had been drawing rations in said
family. This I did not discover until I had mixed with them nearly
a month. As soon as it was ascertained I directed the head of the
family to be punctual either in paying over the money, or subsisting
the Indians for whom they drew, whichever they might prefer. The
arrangement gave general satisfaction as new complaints were made on
this side of the
Mississippi.
In Mr. Van Horne’s letter of the 11th ult. he remarks,
“since my return to this part, I have met with an assistant agent
who accompanied the party of the Cherokees. He informed me that the
roll of the party turned over to me is inaccurate, and cannot be
depended on - that within a space of six inches
0184
on one page
of the roll the same person is three times enrolled under different
names, opposite one is the remark commuted sub. east of the Miss.”
This I pronounce to be untrue and as unfounded as some other
assertions of Mr. Van Horne. I am perfectly satisfied there was no
individual so mustered, nor was there any such remark made in the
roll unless it was done after I signed it by some unauthorized
person. The roll turned over to Dr. Young is an accurate copy of
the one I forwarded to your office on the 29th of March
last, in which I do not think a remark similar to the one
above-mentioned can be found. The roll of those emigrants whose
commutation their transportation and subsistence was contained in a
small menu book which Dr. Young was directed to hand over to the
agent who received the detachment from him. It may not have been
purchased according to forms;
0185
but owing to
my recent appointment, and the great press of business in my hands
at the time it was the best in my power to make under the
circumstances.
My reason for asserting positively that there is no truth in the
statement of Lt. Van Horne “that the same individual is three times
enrolled under different names” is that I made an attempt to muster
those who had embarked at this place, but owing to the great
excitement amongst them consequent when leaving their country and
friends, and from many of them too being in a state of intoxication
I failed in accomplishing. The attempts were again made at Ross’
and subsequently at Gunter’s Landing, with the same result, and I
was compelled to defer it until I reached
Tuscumbria,
Ala. When the boats
were ready to receive them at the latter place, I directed the
Indians to convey all their baggage in board and then compelled
0186
all to go
ashore except Maj. Ridge, wife and some six or seven old and sick.
I then took the roll previously prepared, and had a plank laid from
the shore to one of the boats and directed the interpreter to call
them by heads of families as they were entered in the roll, and gave
my whole attention to see that every member of each family, as there
entered, passed into the boast on the plank. I stood so near that I
could have touched any one that passed. This all took pace during a
period of great confusion on the shore – some drunk, others
quarreling, etc; still no such error as that mentioned by Mr. Van
Horne could possibly have occurred. If there was any error it lay
in having one family of Scrapers more in the roll than should have
been there. This was either Long Shell or Soft Shell Scraper, I am
not certain which. Some confusion existed at the time relation to
these
0187
families
which I could not explain, but was in paper. Dr. Young would detect
the error, if any, when they were mustered out of the boast. One
error I committed though not noticed in Mr. Van Horne’s letter was
in omitting to place an idiot daughter of
John
Ridge on the
roll. She remained on the boats with the old and sick, and the
mistake did not occur to me until after I had forwarded the roll to
your office.
I cannot imagine upon what authority Mr. Van Horne makes his
assertive relation to the Black Bird families etc, etc. without
having been at the boat when the emigrants arrived at their
destination. I am disposed to believe that the various assertions
contained in his letter of the 7th and 11th
ult., arose from his not understanding the roll handed him by Col.
Armstrong. This roll contained the names of all those who had
commuted their trans-
0188
-portation
and subsistence east of the
Miss., to include
the 14th
March 1837 – those that removed themselves as well as
those of the last detachment. From this roll it may appear that two
thirds have commuted their transportation and subsistence, for it
will be recollected that many commuted who were not removed by the
government but have and will remove themselves.
I cannot conceive what motion could have influenced Lt. Van Horne to
make this gratuitous denunciation of an individual unknown to him.
Presuming however that he was merely misinformed as to the true
state of the case, I have only to request that he be required to
furnish the names of the asst. agent and others who led him to make
statements so totally at variance with the truth.
It is in your power, and I hope you will exercise it, to ascertain
0189
whether Mr.
Van Horne or myself is correct. The master roll of the detachment
is in your possession, and by requiring the disbursing officers to
forward the amounts of those who received commutations, and
comparing them with same roll, should any be found – except
McCameron and the Hicks who received their commutation --
transported in this detachment, I shall not consider myself unfairly
treated to receive a notification from you that the department has
no further use for my services.
As to
Jackson King mentioned in
Mr. Van Horne’s letter of the 11th the Revd. Blunt of the
Brainerd Mission informed me that he had lawfully married him to
Maria Gade a Cherokee woman now here.
The business of removing the Indians was certainly new to me, and I
have found it very laborious and troublesome, owing to the great
opposition
0190
to the treaty
throughout the nation. To obtain their consent to remove occasions
me much more trouble than to provide for them after they have
consented. In what I have done I have exercised my best judgment.
If any errors have been committed they were not intentional; for I
entered upon my duties with the fixed determination to remove the
Indians in conformity with the wishes of the government, and as much
to the satisfaction of the Cherokees themselves as an upright,
decisive, energetic, and humane course could effect. How far I have
succeeded in this object remains for the commissioner to determine.
With respect to the extracts from the letter of Dr. Minis. I have
to remark that I believe the number of agents and interpreters
employed indispensable to the conduct of the Indians to the west to
their satisfaction. The medicines and hospitals those forwarded
with them
0191
were no more
than would have been necessary in case of detention on the way, and
I considered it my duty to provide for a contingency of that nature,
by no means unlikely to happen. Had an epidemic broken out amongst
them, would I have been complying with the treaty and with the
common dictates of humanity to have furnished them with an
insufficient supply of medicines? In regard to the loss which Dr.
Minis asserts the government will have to sustain in consequence of
having more provisions than it appeared were necessary. I think it
will be found, should proper measures be taken to dispose of them
that the government will gain by the commutation.
I have to apologize for the length of this communication. It is much
longer than I intended it should be — longer probably than there is
in any necessity for. My anxiety to justify myself in your opinion
must prove my
0192
excuse; and I
infer that you will take the trouble to have all the facts corrected
with the last movement thoroughly investigated and information of
the result forwarded to me.
Could the commissioner make it convenient to visit this section of
country and see the many difficulties the undersigned has to content
with, it would be greatly for the interest of the service, and I
sincerely hope that he will be able to pass two or three weeks here
in the course of the season.
I have the honor to be very respectfully your obedient servant,
Nat. Smith
Supt. C.
Removal
P.S. I expect to be able to forward you my quarterly abstract by
the next mail.
N.S.
0193
Copy A
0194
Copy
Doct. Jno. S. Young
Tuscumbria,
Ala.
Conducting Agent
14th March 1837
Sir
You will take charge of the detachment of Cherokees now on board of
the steamer
Newark at this landing
and deliver them at their homes in the country assigned them west,
or to such agents as may be directed to receive them from you.
Doctor Minis will accompany you as disbursing agent for the
detachment.
Very respectfully,
Nat. Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S368. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S367
0168
Honl.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
5th
June 1837
Sir
Since I had the honor to receive your letter of the 29th
April enclosing a copy of one from Col. M. Armstrong Supt. West. I
have ceased to commute the year’s subsistence for any Cherokee. I
assure them that they will get it on their arrival west. Those who
I believe capable of removing themselves I permit to do so, and
commute their transportation and give them a certificate of which
the enclosed is a copy.
Very Respectfully
Nat. Smith
Supt. Of Removal
0170
Copy
Cherokee Agency East
24th
May 1837
The bearer
__________________ the head of a Cherokee family is permitted to no
more himself and family consisting of _____Cherokees and
_______slaves to the country assigned the Cherokees west of the
Mississippi, having been paid _______dollars for the transporting
the same. He will report to the Cherokee agents on his arrival
west,
(signed)
[Williamson] Smith
Supt. Of Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S367. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S383
0196
Honl.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
June 22nd 1837
Sir,
In my letter to you of the ___ inst. I informed you that I would by
the next mail enclose you my quarterly abstract, and should have do
so but on the day I wrote I received intelligence from the Valley
River Towns, that the Indians there had threatened to kill John
Timpson, one of their principal men who has been advocating the
views of the government and urging on his people the propriety of
early preparing to emigrate under the treaty.
I repaired to that place immediately. Reached on the 10th
and remained until the 18th inst. during that time I
visited some of the principal men and saw a great many of the
Indians. I find a very great change in them since the last fall, I
spent 4 months amongst them at that time, in command of the 1st
Regt. of East Town Volunteers, and I can now discover a marked
difference in their conduct, they appear much more stubborn and
distant. They have all done much more labour in the improvement of
their houses and farms than they have for the last 5 years. And my
impression is that they will raise more corn, this, than they have
for the last two years.
With the exception of 60 or 70 that have enrolled for emigration
they will not talk at all on the
0197
subject.
They denied to me having threatened to kill Timpson, and I could not
establish the fact clearly enough to have them taken up, but I have
no doubt they have it in contemplation. The military are instructed
by Genl. Wool to use every precaution to prevent it.
Very Respectfully,
Nat. Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S383. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S388
0199
Honl.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
24th June 1837
Sir,
I have just learned that Mr. Jno Ross has called on the whole
Cherokee people to meet him in council at Red Clay, on the 31st
of next month. His object in calling them together (he says) is to
let them know what the delegation had done for them last winter at
Washington. In this he
may be honest, but I have no doubt if they are suffered to meet at
his call or request, they will again protest against the treaty and
appoint a delegation to visit Washington this winter with a view of
getting some alteration or modification of the treaty, and the
consequence will be that I will be unable to get off one eight of
the tribe this fall.
I do hope the Hon. Secretary of War will not suffer this council to
be held or any act done that will destroy the prospects of
emigration. If they are permitted to send a delegation this winter,
very few of them will make any preparation to remove until the tow
years will have expired granted them by the treaty, and we will have
a scene of confusion that will be shocking to humanity; and if we
get through without bloodshed I shall be disappointed.
I remain respectfully your obedient servant,
Nat. Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S388. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
July - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S399
0201
Honl.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
1st July 1837
Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th
May in which you notify me that you had transmitted to me by mail 40
copies of revised regulations no. 5. They have not come to hand.
The call of Mr. Ross’s council over some other cause have put a stop
to enrolling for emigration. None have enrolled since I last wrote
you, and some that had enrolled and expressed a willingness to
remove at any time that I would call on them to go, and that were
receiving rations have ceased to draw within the last few days.
Whether it is the presence of Mr. Ross or what he says to them that
caused this falling off I am unable to say.
Very respectfully,
Nat Smith
Supt of Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S399. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S420
0203
Honl.
C.A.
Harris
New
Echota,
Ga.
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
July 13, 1837
Sir,
I reached this place on the 11th inst. on my way to
Cherokee, Floyd, and
Paulding
Counties in
this state. Accounts agree from all parts of the nation in
representing the Cherokees as becoming more distant, and less
disproved to mix with the whites. Many of them from the above named
Counties have already removed to the mountains, and more are
preparing to. The white inhabitants in those counties have become
very much alarmed, and petitioned the Governor of Georgia for
military aid. It appears to be the general opinion that there will
be bloodshed shortly. Col. Lindsay arrived at this place on the 11
inst. with a view of ascertaining the situation of the country. He
informs me that his forces will soon be organized. The prospects
for emigration have not brightened any since I last wrote.
Very Respectfully
Yr. Hbl. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S420. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S434
0205
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
20th
July 1837
Sir,
I returned to this place on last evening from the
Georgia
part of the Cherokee Nation. I found the Indians there as in the
North Carolina part,
distant and sullen, and not disposed to talk on the subject of
emigration. Ross’s intended council appears at this time to engross
their whole attention. If he is not suffered to hold it I think
that I shall be able to get off 5 or 6 thousand Indians this fall.
I discover in traveling amongst them that there is not as much cause
of alarm at this time, as many of the whites who live amongst them
represent. I find in many counties of the Cherokee Country
volunteer companies are raised who wish
0206
to be called
into the service of the United States and I have no doubt there are
many designing persons among them, who exaggerate or even encourage
the Indians to show signs of hostilities for the sake of being
called into service.
Yet I believe
there is at this time a settled determination in at least one third
of the Cherokees to die on their lands here, in preference to
removal west. Col. Lindsey has sent two companies of volunteers
into the counties of Cherokee, Floyd, Paulding, and Gilmore and will
station them in some area of these counties if thought necessary by
the commanding officer Capt. Monrow.
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S434. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S436
0208
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
27th
July 1837
Sir,
By the mail of the 25th I had the honor to receive your
letter of the 12th inst. in which you inform me that a
special agent will be sent to the intended council to make known the
views and intentions of the government. This I deem a very
judicious arrangement, and I have no doubt will result greatly to
the benefit of the Cherokee people and to the honor of our
government and prevent the shedding of much human blood. On the
receipt of your letter I immediately handed it to Col. Lindsey whose
headquarters is at this place and he immediately dispatched one
express to Mr. Ross informing him of its contents, that the Indians
might know in time that the council would be held to get as many of
them as possible together, etc. I saw Mr. Ross on yesterday and he
told me that he would not be surprised if a large majority of the
whole tribe were present
0209
I anticipate
favorable results from the deliberation of this council, (viz.) if
the Government will make some slight modification of the treaty so
as to satisfy the Ross party, which I think will not be difficult to
do.
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. C. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S436. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
August - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S475
0211
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
12th Augt. 1837
Sir,
Col. Mason, special agent, delivered his talk to the Cherokees on
Monday last, and although a very rainy day and raining at the time,
there were present I think near 2,500 chiefs and warriors, who paid
great attention what he said. What effect it may have on them, I am
unable at this time to say, but from their deportment to him and the
balance of the government officers present, both before and after
the talk, I predict much good will grow out of it. His good
character and gentlemanly deportment at once gained him the
confidence of all present (whites as well as Indians) and the
Cherokees treated him with marked attention and respect, such as no
government officer has received from them since 1817. On the next
day (Tuesday) they took the vote on the nomination of the delegation
and although still raining about 2,000 were present and unanimously
approved the nomination and that the delegation proceed immediately
to
Washington, and on
Wednesday the common Indians left the council ground apparently well
pleased. The committee and council, I am informed, will rise this
day.
Very Respectfully
Nat Smith
Sup.
Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S475. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S494
0213
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
24th Augt. 1837
Sir,
The presentation to me today of a case of peculiar hardship induces
me to most earnestly request that you will as early as possible
place it in my power to liquidate claims for valuations under former
treaties. Mary Dougherty a widow with the care of eleven children
who emigrated in the year 1834 by difficulties which were the result
of a want of means to adjust her business in the Eastern Nation she
was forced to return with access to which she is not able to lay her
hands on she is in indigent and needy circumstances and anxious to
return west before the coming of cold weather.
Returns for valuations made in the year 1833-34 will show you the
amount she is entitled to. Her Impvts. were situated in the
Lookout
Valley.
Very Respectfully,
Your mo. obt. serv.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S494. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S504
0215
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
25th Augt. 1837
Sir,
Since I last wrote you I have ascertained that the late Cherokee
Council has reorganized their late Indian system appointed judges,
clerks, etc. This will have a very infurious effect upon the
emigration this fall. It has inspired the common Indians with fresh
hopes that their country will yet be restored to them
I have commenced preparations for starting a detachment on the 12 of
next month. I hope to be able to start 1,000 or 1,200 by that time.
Should the number that may be ready to start at the same time amount
to1,200 I will divide them into two detachments. I think by this
arrangement they could be better provided for whilst greater
expedition would be ensured.
Preston Stussel Esq. will conduct the first detachment. His
appointment has been heretofore submitted and approved by your
department. I have approved L.A. Kincannon Esq. to contract for the
first detachment on the route west for his character and
qualifications. You are referred to the enclosed recommendation. I
have also appointed John W. Webb an agent to assist in the
collection of Indians.
Doct. Townsend will be physician and Doct.
0216
Reynolds
disbursing agent to the 1st detachment.
I will instruct that the upper route be traveled through
Kentucky,
Illinois, and
Missouri. These are
green growing countries which will make supplies more plenty and
cheaper.
I have neglected heretofore to inform you that I had appointed Mary
Moore a white woman and wife of a Cherokee hospital matron at this
place and interpreter to the attending physician also Betsy Downing
a half breed Cherokee matron and interpreter at Ross Landing. They
are both intelligent and speak both languages fluently. I allow
each one dollar per day with rations for their families 5 1/2
rations to
Moores and three to
Downings. Theses appointments were rendered necessary because of
the great prejudice amongst Indians against taking medicine. It
cannot be administered except by persons having influence over
them. When they first receive rations they are apt to be affected
by the change of diet bring the most of them at first under the care
of the physician.
Very Respectfully
Yr Mo Obt serv
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
0217
General Nathaniel Smith
Sir, the
undersigned being informed that it will be necessary to employ some
trusty person to furnish provision to the Cherokee Indians the
ensuing summer or fall until they arrive at their place of
destination beyond the Mississippi would recommend to you favorable
notice Mr. Landon A. Kincannon of McMinnville Mamen County. Mr.
Kincannon is a merchant and at present doing business in McMinnville
and as we believe in every respect able to furnish any amount of
provisions which may be required to support any number of Indians
which may remove from the Cherokee Nation. If security should be
required for the faithful performance of his trust we believe he is
able to give it to any amount. His only object in soliciting the
appointment is the restoration of his health. Close confinement for
many years at the mercantile business has impaired it. He believes
that traveling would improve it. He would be satisfied with a
moderate compensation for the trouble and labor he would be put to.
We conclude with earnestly recommending him to you as a man in every
respect qualified to discharge the duties of the office which he
solicits.
Respectfully yours,
J.F. Masbond
James
Campbell
0218
I have every
confidence in the ability of Mr. Kincannon to perform the duties
which may be assigned him.
Saml Reagy (?)
I concur n the statement made by Mr. Sammuel Reagy (?
O. Loring
We concur in the above statement of [?]
Connor McAlister and co.
We concur in the foregoing recommendations to their fullest extent.
Mingow (?) Allison and co.
I am personally acquainted with Mr. Kincannon and would have
undoubted confidence in his discharging the duties of the
appointment with integrity and ability.
James Rucks
I have no personal acquaintance with Mr. Kincannon; but do not
hesitate to say, from the forgoing statements – some of them being
from persons with whom he has had considerable pecuniary dealings –
that Mr. Kincannon may be implicitly trusted with the appointment in
question.
R.J. Meigs
An intimacy of some years standing, growing out of [?] mercantile
machinery with Mr. Kincannon [?] us to say that there is no man in
the community that we think better qualified in all respects for the
[?] [?] and we know none entitled to more [?] confidence.
Donglap [?]
[?]
I fully concur in the foregoing recommendations and should be much
gratified should Mr. Kincannon be employed as I believe the public
interest would be promoted by his appointment.
Felix Grundy
The undersigned has had the pleasure following Mr. L.A. Kincannon
personally, almost from childhood, and with but few interruptions up
to the present moment, at which time fortune has liberally crowned
his meritorious assertions, and can truly say that no business (if
integrity), industry, and intelligence are adequate to its
accomplishments could suffer under his control and management.
[?] William April 1837
Hon. F. M. Kinney, M.D.
I have no
personal acquaintance with Mr. Kincannon, but from the forgoing
testimonials and other information in which I have the most [?]
confidence, I heartily concur in recommending him for the employment
which he seeks.
April 17th, 1837
James K. Pound
[?]
0220
I have for
sometime been intimately acquainted with Mr. L.A. Kincannon and know
him to be well qualified to discharge any trust that may be
committed to his care. He has proven himself to be industrious,
honorable, and punctual in all his business transactions and as such
I take great pleasure in recommending you the appointment he seeks.
M. Hill
McMinnville 20th 1837
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S504. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
September - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S523
0222
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
New
Echota,
Ga.
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Sept. 4, 1837
Sir,
I have the honor to inform you that there are a number of Cherokees
who are steady and estimable men and well qualified to remove
themselves who wish to draw their commutation of both transportation
and subsistence east of the
Mississippi. From the
circumstance of many of them having been concerned in making the
late treaty, they are unwilling to emigrate until they see that
peace and harmony is restored in the nation west, but intend to
leave this country within the time specified. Should you think
proper to make exceptions of such cases, to your instructions
communicated in your favor of the 20th of May, it will
operate considerably in making many disappear from the nation east
whether the go immediately to Arkansas or not. Your early attention
to this is respectfully requested.
Very Respectfully
Your
Mo. Obt Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S523. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S541
0227
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
4th Sept, 1837
Sir,
The prospects for emigration this fall continue very flattering in
all parts of the Cherokee country except the mountains (Valley
Towns). There, said the late Council, nothing can be done. P.
Harrett, enrolling agent for that region had fifty-six enrolled to
remove in the first detachment that should start this fall. On the
3rd instant I instructed him to bring them and all others
who might be willing to remove to this place, by the 12th
inst. with a view of starting directly, a party of which seven
hundred that had been enrolled at McNairs and Ross Land. He made
the attempts to enlist them and forty-six ran off and are now lying
in the mountains. In the lower part of the nation, particularly
Alabama, there are very
flattering prospects. I have enrolled since the 4th
inst. over one thousand which added to those heretofore enrolled
will make about eighteen hundred. Of these and what I yet hope to
enroll I will make three detachments and send them off as speedily
as possible. I have appointed Aaron Haynes, George Massey, and
Henry McCoy of
Alabama, and E.D. Tarhune of
Georgia enrolling
agents; and James Lauderdale of
Tenn., collecting
agent. These gentlemen are making vigorous efforts throughout the
nation enrolling and sending to this place where the detachments
will be formed.
Captain
Simontor, having been assigned as disburser under the direction of
the commissioners renders it necessary to have three other
disbursing officers in the emigrating service, viz. two to accompany
parties, and one to remain with me at this place to pay those who
may be permitted to remove themselves their commuted transportation,
etc.
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S541. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S524
0222
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
New
Echota,
Ga.
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Sept. 7, 1837
Sir,
I have commenced collecting a detachment of Cherokees to leave the
agency for their new homes on the 20th inst. The
prospect for emigrating this fall is much more flattering than I had
heretofore calculated on. I reached this on the 4th inst
and have enrolled 216 Cherokees to leave in the first detachment. I
have appointed Aaron Haynes Esq. of
Jacksonville,
Ala. enrolling agent and col.
Thomas C. Hindman of the same place wagon master for the
Alabama detachment. I
greatly fear that we shall get out of the kind of money that the
Cherokees will take. Capt. Limonter recorded at
Augusta $200,000, thirty thousand of
which were
U.S. notes, ten
thousand in specie, and the balance in
Georgia
banks. The Treasury drafts he received, $200,000, are all payable
at the Southern Banks and will not be received by the Indians.
They, with a few exceptions, will not receive any of them. If there
could be treasury drafts lent on of a size from $100 to $5,000
payable at the eastern cites the Cherokees would take them as
readily as specie, for all the silver in the country could be
commanded for them. Mr. Mason left this on the 5th inst
for
Washington. On his
arrival
0223
he will
inform you of the true situation of our moneyed affairs.
Very Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S524. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S542
0229
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
18th Sept, 1837
Sir,
Doct. J.C. Reynolds, disbursing agent for Cherokee Removal, handed
me an order from the adjutant Genl. of the
U.S.A. in which I
find he is ordered to
Fort Gibson,
Arkansas. Col. Lindsay
commanding the army of the Cherokees Nation gives it as his opinion
that Doct. Reynolds should immediately close his accounts and repair
forthwith to the Post assigned him by said order.
If this be
done it will place the emigrating service here in an awkward
situation. I am now on the eve of starting a detachment of
Cherokees west and shall have no disbursing officer to accompany
them except Dr. Reynolds.
Capt. Simontor having been assigned to disburse exclusively at New
Echota for the commissioners.
I shall very
shortly need two in addition to Doct. Reynolds, viz, one to
accompany each of the detachments that I intend shortly to start,
and one to remain at this place where I have to remain to muster and
order the commutation of transportation of those who may be
permitted to receive and remove themselves. And for Doct. Reynolds
to leave now will completely stop arrest emigration this fall unless
his place is filled before his departure.
I heretofore respectfully request that the
0230
Honl.
Secretary of War will countermand his order and let Doct. Reynolds
remain on the service, a service that he is peculiarly well
qualified to perform. And I take pleasure in bearing testimony to
you not only of the fitness of Dr. Reynolds, and Capt. Simontor, for
the stations they occupy, but the gentlemanly manner in which they
do their business, giving entire satisfaction to all with whom they
have to transact business, a very important trait in the character
of an officer in a government like ours.
Very Respectfully
Your obt. Serv.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S542. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S543
0232
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
22nd Sept, 1837
Sir,
About the 6th of May last with the consent of the
commissioners I furloughed Doct. C. Lillybridge for fifty or sixty
days, with an understanding that if his services were needed at the
post assigned him that Doct. Little Medical Director should employ a
physician in his place, and that Doct. Lillybridge should pay him
out of his per diem. Shortly after the doct. left the Cherokees
commenced enrolling at Ross Landing. The post assigned Doct.
Lillybridge and the dysentery and diarrhea broke out among the
Indians very violently and I had Doct. Saml S.M. Doak employed who
was right busily employed until Doct. Lillybridge returned, and now
Doct. Lillybridge refuses to pay Doct. Doak, although his furlough
was granted on that express condition. Doct. Lillybridge was absent
over sixty days (as he has informed you) and Doct. Reynolds
disbursing agent refuses to pay him without your order. Will you
please (if you order him paid) order Doct. Doak paid out of his per
diem agreeably to the conditions of his furlough?
0233
(I hope to be
able to start 7 or 800 Cherokees in a few days.)
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S543. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
October - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S584
0235
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
4 October 1837
Sir,
When I last
wrote you I expected to have been able to start the first fall’s
detachment of Cherokees for the west before their time.
But owing to
the tardy movements of the Indians, I fear I shall not be able to
get them off before the 15th inst. and then not more than
seven hundred; about five hundred, however, to whom is granted the
privilege of transporting themselves are at this time daily passing
on making in all about twelve, and possibly thirteen hundred by the
15th.
I have great
opposition in the business at this time, not only by the Indians,
but on the part of the whites who are settled among them.
The
commissioners lately adopted a rule to pay no Cherokee his money for
claims, etc. until after he had positively enrolled for emigration
and promised a speedy removal.
I have since
enrolled about twelve hundred, and have to my mortification and
disappointment discovered that many of them enrolled to get the
money through the influence of the whites with whom they trade and
to whom become indebted; and now refuse to go agreeable to promises
made upon a clear understanding of the conditions of enrollment.
Very
respectfully your obt. servt.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S584. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S617
0237
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
4 October 1837
Sir,
On the 13th inst. after all my efforts, I was only able
to start a detachment of 365 Cherokees. Majr. B. B. Cannon
conducting agent, Doct Reynolds disburser, Doct. Townsend physician,
Jackson Smith, E.S. Curry, and Thos. P. Wells agents, L.A. Kincannon
[?] and Thomas Prigmore wagon master, all left in good health and
spirits. Owing to the confusion when they started, I had to follow
and muster them on the road this morning. I thought it best to send
this no. of officers as there were no grand with them. I am greatly
disappointed in the no. of this detachment. I had good reasons
(until lately) to believe that at least 2,000 would emigrate this
fall, and that I would get 700 or more in this detachment. This 365
and 325 that have passed on removing themselves are all that I have
been able to get off – out the 1,800 that have enrolled.
I have not
made a calculation, but the cost for transporting this detachment I
fear will greatly exceed the $20 per head. On this
0238
subject I
will give you the particulars in my next. The prospects for further
emigration this fall are very gloomy.
Very
Respectfully,
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S617. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S625
0240
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
23rd October 1837
Sir,
Circumstances connected with the deportment of many of the enrolled
Cherokees induce me to propose to your consideration the following
inquiry.
Whether in
view of the regulations and requirements of the treaty under which
we are acting it should be allowed that those Indians who came
forward voluntarily without a shadow of coercion, intimidations, or
even undue persuasions to the enrolling and issuing agents after
sober and deliberate reflection on their own part, and authorized
the registration of their own named and those of their families and
received rations regularly during the spring and summer part and
from the commissioners half of their valuations in cash, under the
positive, and well understood agreement that they would be required
to go to Arkansas in the month of Sept. or as soon thereafter as the
means of transportation could be provided, should, when the time
arrived, be suffered to decline going in conformity with the
agreement and go at large under the vague and indefinite promise to
go next year when it remained unavoidable. Toward such are we
authorized to exercise no control in reference to their contempt and
disregard of the compact.
Such conduct
on the part of the much more than half of the whole season’s
enrollments have deeply blighted my prospects in reference to the
fall’s emigration of which I sometime ago entertained the most
sanguine expectations and in relation to which I unsuspectingly gave
you such a flattering account.
Very
respectfully your most obt. servant,
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S625. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
November - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S629
0242
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
1 Nov. 1837
Sir,
Enclosed
herewith you will find my 3rd quarterly statement of
agents and others employed in the services of Cherokee emigration
for the quarter ending 30th Sept.
It is with
regret that I have to remark that the prospects of further
emigration this fall are truly dull and gloomy. The removal falls
much short of my expectations sometime ago for reasons you will
derive out of my last communication.
And in view
of the embarrassment and greatly increased expense in removing them
by land, I have madea contract with
Col.
[?] Smith of Maury Co.
Tenn. to transport not
less than six thousand and all over that number who will agree to go
by water from Tuscumbria, Ala. to Little Rock, Arkansas or Jefferson
City or Boonesville Mo; as the commissioner of Indian Affairs, or
Superint. of
Cher. Emigration may decide and at
ten dollars per head; subject however to your approval.
I have
executed the contract with that understanding and Col. Smith left
this place on the 26th with the contract and the bond
appointed to have filled with ample security for the performance and
will reach
Washington
City about the
15th inst. and submit the claim for your approval. For
the colonel’s character and business habits – I refer you to Mister
Grundy and Polk.
I am now
engaged in making a contract for transporting these
0249
from the
point to the foot of the Muscle Shoals in boats [?] constructed to
those, Col. Smith is bound to furnish at _______ dollars per head.
Mr.
Crittenden informs me that he spent the last summer in transporting
a quantity of provisions of the
Arkansas River to
Fort
Gibson and he
suggest that I require Col. Smith to bring in the two steam boats we
mentioned in the contract in the first instances; and extend the
obligation with him, if he consents, to Fort Coffee or Gibson; and
says $4 per head to Coffee or $5 to Gibson will be a fair price from
Little Rock to those points.
If this be
done I shall have a line of steam boats from within 200 yards of
this agency to their country west. By this arrangement I can
provide for and send one thousand Indians every fifteen days. Say
the boat from this place to the Shoals will make a trip in that
time, and the two boats under Smith’s contract make each trip every
thirty days at a cost for transportation not exceeding $17 per head
and allow them for example 20 days to go at 12 ½ cents each per day
for subsistence (and it will not cost so much) the whole cost will
not exceed $20 per head all expenses included.
To transport
them by land it will require about 70 days at this season of the
year and 80 in the spring, calculating 70 days at 12 ½ cents for
subsistence per day. The difference will be $6.25 per head making
in this time of expense the tribe amounting to 16,000 souls a
savings of $100,000 difference in subsistence.
Add to this
the important consideration of expedition for by water it is clear
the whole tribe can be transported in one half the time at most. If
there [?] of the comparatives transportation be earnest, and I am
decidedly of opinion they are, if you approve and confirm the
contract begun with Col. Smith.
0250
Might it not
be well at the same time extend it to
Fort
Coffee or
Fort
Gibson and if
so you will please to do so. Col. Smith can then return by
Pittsburg and get his boats to Tuscumbria, or one of the at least by
the 1st of January; for I hope I can have 1,000 Indians
ready by that time.
My reason for
requiring them landed at
Jefferson City or
Boonesville if demanded is that if after the 23rd May a
crowded removal should become necessary. The Arkansas may become
too low or too sickly to ascend with safety or propriety in which
event the emigration might be directed up the Missouri River and
landed at one of the places indicated; where from they might be
removed by Masons a distance of one hundred and sixty miles or
thereabouts to their new homes.
From the best
estimate I have been able to make if the cost connected with the
transportation of the party lately started I am apprehensive it will
exceed $4 3 per head; which compared with water transportation shows
a hideous disparity the land conveyance being at least double that
by water.
All of which
is most respectfully submitted.
Your obt. humble Servt.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S629. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S627
0242
COPY
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
3 Nov. 1837
Sir,
On the
subject of removing the Cherokees by water, I lately advised with
Mr.Crittenden, disbursing agent and the opinion provided by him in
reference to the matter you will find herewith enclosed.
My enrolling
agents very generally report to me, that a large majority of those
now enrolling and those determined shortly to do so express a desire
to go by water. The detachment transported last spring by water
went with so much dispatch and comfort that all of that part who
write back to their friends here advise them if they can get a
chance to select water conveyance by all means and through the
contract with Col. Smith provided, positively, for the
transportation of six thousand only. I have no hesitation in
believing that the experiment by water being further tried and
proving successful more than two thirds of the whole tribe will
prefer to go by water.
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
0244
Cherokee
Agency
Oct. 31, 1837
Sir,
Yours of this
day, date requesting me to communicate to you any information that I
may possess in regard to the navigation of the
Arkansas I have
received.
I have some
knowledge of the navigation of the
Arkansas River by steam having
spent some time last summer in that country, and upon business
connected with the navigation of that river by steamboat from the
month of May to August at which time I was there. The water was
sufficient to admit boats from 130 to 200 I am landed to Fort Gibson
on Grand River, and as I understand for some months before that
time, these boats generally drove from 5 to 6 feet water loaded but
they can be brought to draw only from 3 to 3 ½ feet when light,
boats of this description can navigate the Arkansas from the mouth
to Little Rock at almost all seasons of the year, and from there to
Fort Coffee or Gibson, there may be a few
0245
a few months
in the face of the year of the year that boats may find some
difficulty in getting up as high as
Fort
Gibson. The
usual time of ascending the
Arkansas from the mouth to
Little Rock is from three to four
days and from thence to
Fort
Coffee in about
5 to 6 days.
Respecting
the removal of the Indians by means of steam boats I am decidedly of
opinion that they will find it much to their comfort as well as
convenience and will be attended with much cost expenses, I should
think one half. The boats best calculated for the business should
be about 150 and on burden drawing a light draft of water say from 3
to 3 ½ feet water with sufficient engine to tow two keel boats of
larger capacity, sufficient to accommodate from two to three hundred
each or perhaps more. I should think that a boat would be able to
make a passage in at least 20 days taking with her two keel boats.
In this way the Indians will be conveyed to their new homes in west
with much more ease and comfort to themselves, with far greater
detach. than any
0246
other way,
and those Indians that I conversed with on the subject upon their
arrival in the west were well pleased with their trip preferring it
greatly to the fatigue attending the journey by land.
Contracts
made to transport Indians at
Little Rock should be
made to go to their places of destination if the water in the river
is in such stage as will permit boats to proceed above. Those boats
can proceed on with the Indians they have on board and can deliver
them at the place appointed with more dispatch and I presume less
expense than any other way.
Very
respectfully
J[?]
Crittenden
To Genl. Nath.
Smith
Supt. Of
Cher. Inds.
Cherokee Agency
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S627. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S659
0252
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Nov. 13, 1837
Sir,
I have the
honor to transmit herewith a copy of the corrected Muster Roll
forwarded to Lt. Van Horne since the receipt of your letter of the
23rd ult. and also a copy of the letter accompanying the
same. You will see that I am not certain that the roll is entirely
correct but as near being to and can make it without being with Lt.
Van Horne in the west a short time myself. I do still insist
however that I can take the two Muster Rolls furnished to Doct.
Young to turn over to Lt. Van Horne, and identify every Indian that
went in that way. I therefore respectfully suggest to you the
propriety of my making up a detachment by the 13 of January take
them myself by water to
Fort
Gibson. I think
I can have between six hundred and a thousand ready to emigrate by
that time who wish to go by water and if you approve the contract
made with Col. Smith and extend it to
Fort
Coffee or
Gibson, I am of opinion it would be good policy to call Dr. Young to
the agency and for me to make the trip and see that the boats are
furnished agreeably to contract also in order that I can make the
necessary corrections in the Muster Roll which I am anxious to do
so.
0253
In Muster
Roll No. 2 transmitted to your office on the 17th ult.
there two errors which you will please have corrected by viz. Erase
Hawk Baldridge with a family of four and insert Black Fox with a
family of six and please state that Mrs. Parchal commuted her year’s
subsistence in her father’s (Maj. Ridge’s) family and married on her
way to Arkansas in Feby. last.
In Muster
Roll No. 3 opposite Killer Moore’s family consisting of seven,
please state that he commuted the year’s subsistence in Feby. last
for the whole family.
The reason
why I did not write to Lt. Van Horne shortly after the receipt of
your letter of the 20th May is that from the
circumstances of the wrong roll having been returned to me from the
department I presumed that the other viz. the one I gave to Dr.
Young, would be examined by Lt. Van Horne and found correct. Had it
not been for this supposition, I would certainly have furnished
explanations at the time. A similar confusion and difficulty in my
opinion will not take place again, as my arrangements now are made
to prevent any like occurrence.
You will
observe that I have made an alteration in the form of the Muster
Roll. If you approve of the alterations please have some printed,
covered, and sent to me as early as convenient. I find it necessary
to specify the residences as there are many Cherokees of the same
name.
I have the
honor to be very respt. yr. obt. srvt.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Rl.
0254
blank
0255
(COPY)
Lieut. F. Van
Horne
Cherokee Agency East
Asst. Disbg.
Agents
Nov. 13, 1837
Sir,
Enclosed
herewith you will find a corrected Muster Roll of the party of
Cherokee Indians conducted to their new homes west of the
Mississippi in March
last by Doct. Jno. S. Young. It is truly unfortunate that the
doctor suffered the Indians to dispense before they were turned over
by a remuster in your presence as I feel confident had this been
done the party could have been identified individually and paid off
by you to their entire satisfaction. The reason why I commuted the
year’s subsistence to so many of them was that the propriety of so
doing was strongly urged by persons who were at the head of the
treaty party; I also found that I could not get them off without
paying it and besides I had not at that time any particular
instructions on the subject. I regret, however, that the
irregularity of that proceeding has assisted in settling with that
party. Since the 24th of May last I have not commuted
the year’s subsistence for any one, but give to heads of families
suffered to transport themselves a certificate of the permission,
name, number in family, amount paid, etc. The sources of difficulty
in making correct rolls and records in reference to emigrant
Cherokees are numerous as well as various. Not among the least is
the fact thought a singular one
0256
that many,
very many, have not only two but frequently three or four names
which being given by themselves and different interpreters at
different times, produces with us here oft times not a little
embarrassment and confusion. Decided partialities also are often to
be met with among them for particular names such as Pheasant, Bear,
Bear’s Paw, Drowning Bear, Culwowee, etc, etc. many very many
individuals being found in the different parts of the nation of
these several names. To obviate the confusion likely to arise from
this, I have latterly practiced and intend to continue to notice in
a column of the Muster Roll devoted to that purpose their last place
of residence in this country. This procedure I hope will greatly,
if not entirely, obviate embarrassments that might grow out of this
sameness of name. Some Cherokees have gone in boyhood by the name
given them by their parents, in manhood by a caprice of their own or
of a neighbor, they take a different name. And the old age of the
same individual often finds him with a third name. To the valuing
agents ascertaining the worth of their improvements, if absent, an
acquaintance may give for him the name he had many years ago; he in
person gives to the commissioners or superintendent the name he now
chooses to be known by. Thus without much trouble and investigation
oft times perplexities arise.
The three
last named individuals on the roll herewith sent viz. Geo. and John
Vann and Elijah Moore; and Archilla Smith whose name will be found
in the body of the roll separated from the party and went by land to
take care of the stock, which fact was omitted to be noticed on the
roll handled you by Doct. Young.
0257
If this
corrected roll and explanations be inefficient to enable you to
complete the business and discharge the remaining dues of the part
to which it is applicable I believe I must say that nothing further
can be done by me short of a visit to
Fort
Gibson in
person which I have suggested to Mr. Harris and proposed to
accompany a party of emigrants by water about Christmas or January
next.
Very
Respectfully your obt. sert.
(signed) Nat
Smith
Supt. C. Reml.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S659. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S674
0259
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Nov. 18, 1837
Sir,
Mr. Van
Antwerp, disbursing agent, reported for duty a few days since
bringing with him a few thousand dollars in treasury notes. I find
that these notes have the effect of bringing out the specie, and are
taken very readily by the Cherokees. Mr. Van Antwerp was making
preparations to go to
Nashville with a view of
procuring ten thousand dollars in specie, but on its being known
that treasury notes would be given for it, I ascertained that the
amount could be obtained at this place. I was somewhat surprised at
this, for I thought all the specie had been drained from this
neighborhood some time since. I am satisfied that the difficulties
we had heretofore to contend with on the score of money are now
entirely removed, and the emigrants will go off with better feelings
towards the government than they previously exhibited.
Two hundred
and thirty-six Cherokees have commuted their transportation since
the 16th ult. and are now on their way to
Arkansas. A few are
enrolling at the several depots for emigration by water about the 1st
of Jany. I hope to be able to get between six and ten thousand
ready by that time.
Very
Respectfully
Your mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S674. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
December - 1837
Emigration
Cherokees S702
0259
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Dec. 4, 1837
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that letters have been received here by the
Cherokees from Mr. John Ross and others of the delegation now at
Washington advising
them to be firm and not to emigrate nor do any act to commit
themselves under the present treaty. It is said that he also states
that the prospects were fair for a new treaty on much better terms
for the Cherokees and that their country would yet be restored to
them. Letters containing such statements are scattered over the
whole Cherokee country and meetings are called and these statements
commented upon by the chiefs. The effect is that it has stopped
their enrolling for emigration entirely except in
Alabama. This I view
as a truly unfortunate condition of things for the Cherokees unless
the government intends to extend the time. There is not one out of
every five hundred that is making the least preparation for
removing, but on the contrary are building new homes, repairing
their old ones, making fences, etc. and appear to be more
industrious than they have been for several years. The consequence
of the delegation continuing to write home in this
0260
manner can
easily be imagined. None of them will make preparations to remove
until the time expires and then the scene of confusion and distress
will be lamentable and shocking, particularly in their departure
from
Georgia.
The legislature of that state have a bill now before them, and no
doubt, will become a law authorizing the owner of the lots on which
Cherokees have improvements to take possession in time to make a
crop on all their cleared land, and leave them nothing but their
houses to occupy until the 23rd May at which time they
will, no doubt, be driven from the state.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S702. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S714
0264
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Dec. 13, 1837
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that in September and October last when the
Cherokees commenced enrolling and exhibited such a great disposition
to emigrate, I appointed Nicholas Byers of Tennessee enrolling
agent, E.S. Boyd of
Tenn. collecting agent,
Nelson Chamberlane, J.P. Thompson, W.P. Davis, Richard Ratliff, and
Danl. Spencer interpreters to different agents, who remained in the
service a short time, and whose appointments I discover were not
reported to you at the time, owing to the press of business then on
hand, and having no clerk with me at this place, Doct. Hetzel being
with my office at New Echota. They were all discharged when I found
that they could effect nothing with the Indians. Chamberlane and
Davis were appointed by Doct. Young in
Alabama, and Thompson by Mr.
Terhune in
Georgia.
Other appointments of interpreters may have been made for a few
days, which have not yet been reported to me. The field of
operations here is very large. Eighteen large counties are included
in the
Indian Territory, and no certain
and speedy mode of communication, only by express. The removal of
the commissioners to this place, and also my office (which remained
at New Echota in
0265
Doctor
Hetzel’s care, by order of the commissioners, until within a few
days past, have conduced considerably toward placing things in such
a train as will meet the approbation of the government.
I
respectfully suggest the propriety of sending to the disbg. agents
in the Cherokee emigrating service, treasury notes that do not bear
interest as they will answer all purposes and be much more readily
taken by the Cherokees, who cannot be made to understand the full
value of those bearing interest. They will also command the specie
in exchanging with farmers and others who have it, and will be even
preferred by a majority of them, owing perhaps to their inability to
understand the perplexing nature of the exchange, with those bearing
interest. Fifty dollar notes would answer Mr. Crittenden’s purposes
much better than one hundreds in paying Cherokees their commutation
of transportation when permitted to remove themselves.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S714. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S717
0267
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Dec. 20, 1837
Sir,
By
yesterday’s mail I had the honor to receive your letter of the 6th
inst. with a copy of the steam boat contract with Col. Smith
modified and approved. From present prospects I shall not need the
boats before the 1st of Feby. and in order to save the
demurrage, I have notified Col. Smith to that effect by letter of
this date. Shortly after I wrote you that I expected to get one
thousand ready to go by water by the 15th Jany. letters
were received here, said to be from Mr. Ross and other members of
the delegation at Washington, and industriously circulated through
the nation stating that their prospects were fair for a new treaty
with the government by which they would have the Alabama, Tennessee
and North Carolina part of their country restored, that the whites
would be driven from amongst them, etc. The effect of these letters
on the Cherokees was electric – a sudden stop to preparations was
made by those were getting ready to remove, and they ceased
enrolling entirely except in
Alabama. About one
hundred and fifty Cherokees, a religious society of Moravians,
applied to me in September last for permission to remove themselves
so that they could rest, and not travel, on the Sabbath. I, on
account of their good character, granted their request, and I
sincerely believe they were honest in their in-
0268
tentions to
emigrate this fall. They completed their preparations and started,
and they had actually traveled thirty miles on their way when the
contents of these letters reached them. They immediately encamped,
and commenced and are now building houses and are determined not to
take one more step towards Arkansas until they hear further from Mr.
Ross.
The object of
the leading men among the Cherokees is to keep their people here
until the expiration of the two years and the military force is
applied, in order that they can say they were driven and did not go
under this treaty, and they would rely on congress to do them
justice hereafter. Many, however, of the most intelligent of them,
said they would wait on Mr. Ross until Christmas, and if he effected
nothing by that time, they would start for Arkansas and I have no
doubt they would, were it not for letters such as those above
alluded to received from their chiefs at Washington. It is my
opinion that if the delegation remain at
Washington, and write
home as they have written, I shall not be able to get two thousand
off before the 23rd May next. If otherwise – if the
delegation offered nothing – come home, and state facts to their
people, they will emigrate peaceably, and in such numbers as will
keep me very busy from that time until they are all safely landed
west of the
Mississippi.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
0269
P.S. I have
employed Mr. Stephen Hempstead to issue provisions to the Cherokees
collected at this post at the pay of $1.50 per day.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S717. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S725
0271
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Dec. 20, 1837
Sir,
I have the
honor to acknowledge the receipt of your two letters of the 13th
inst. One enclosing a copy of the correspondence between Col. Mason
and the Cherokee delegation at Washington, and the other enclosing a
copy of a letter to Messrs. Kennedy and Wilson.
Arrangements
are now in operation to make the correspondence as public as
possible, and an address is being prepared by the commissioners and
myself which with the correspondence it is presumed will have
considerable influence in inducing them to emigrate.
I am told
that some of the leading men here have stated that Mr. Ross intended
to appeal to Congress. If this should be the case I hope in order
to accelerate the movements of the Cherokees to their western homes,
that Congress will make to delay in acting upon the question.
In my letter
of the 13th ult. I submitted for your approval, my
intention to accompany the next detachment in person for reasons
therein stated. No reply has yet been received to that letter. It
is very probable that I shall have a detachment of about six or
eight hundred in readiness about the 20th Jany. I am
induced to believe that the circumstance of my going with them will
have a good effect. I therefore hope the proceeding will meet your
approbation.
I have also
received your letter of the 14th inst. on the
0272
subject of
Mary Doughterty’s claim for abandoned improvements, to which I will
reply as soon as I hear from Mary Dougherty.
Very Respectfully
Your most obt. serv.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S725. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
1838
January - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S777
0274
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
Jany. 26, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that I have recently made the following
appointments, which are respectfully submitted for your approval viz:
John W. Webb of
Tennessee enrolling
agent, John F. Beavers and Andrew Cunningham of Georgia and Jonathan
Carr and Stephen Hempstead of Tennessee collecting agents, and James
Bigby, interpreter.
There appears
to be a general movement now in the nation in favor of emigration,
which it is to be hoped will continue. I propose starting a
detachment on the 5th of the next month, and unless some
very strong efforts are made by the leading men to induce the
Cherokees to remain, there will, I have no doubt, a large number
start by water at that time.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S777. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
February - 1838
S795,
S812, S844
Emigration
Cherokees S795
0277
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com.
Ind.
Affairs
February 1, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that Elizabeth Ware, who removed west in 1836,
and returned, called on me a few days ago and stated that when she
emigrated, the agent promised that the money due her for
improvements ($813.50) would be paid immediately on her arrival
west; that she remained in Arkansas several months, could not get
her money, and in consequence, returned again to the nation east.
Being desirous now to remove again, she wishes to have her money.
Ebenezer
Wilcox and wife Anny Ratly, enrolled for emigration and started west
in December 1829. While on their way, Wilcox died, and Anny
returned to the nation east. The improvements valued to Wilcox
amounted to $344.50, $23 of which was paid to J.L. McCarty for a
debt owing him by Wilcox. Anny is the only person entitled to the
balance of the money, and as she needs it much, she is anxious to
have it. Your immediate attention to these cases is earnestly
solicited.
0277
Some of the
agents that accompanied the late detachment have returned. By the
reports of the conducting agents and attending physician you will
see that considerable sickness prevailed, and that sixteen of the
emigrants died on the way. The circumstance unfortunately will be
used as another argument to prevent emigration.
The great
body of the Cherokees are wavering, and it requires all the
exertions of the leading men to keep them from enrolling for
immediate emigration. They say “wait on Ross” – it’s time enough to
make preparations for removal when e writes and sates decisively
that nothing can be effected. I have been expecting a great many to
go in the next detachment who I fear will not come in because
nothing certain has yet come from Mr. Ross.
The
detachment, which will not exceed six hundred, will be in readiness
to start about the 10th of the month. I have notified
Lt. Van Horne of the number expected to compose it, and the time of
starting.
Very
respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S795. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S812
0288
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
February 19, 1838
Sir,
The prospect
for emigration is brightening a little again. I saw a letter this
morning written by Jesse Bushyhead on the 3rd inst. at
Washington in which he
informs his people that their country is gone and that they need
entertain no hopes of ever recovering it. Although this information
has been communicated to the Cherokees often before, it never was
believed and had not the effect, because it did not come from the
right source.
I was sorry
to hear that charges were made against the Cherokees who went to
Florida intending to
injure their characters, for they are all considered as estimable
men in this country.
I would
respectfully suggest that two or three hundred thousand dollars, in
treasury notes be sent to the disbursing agents here. They have
silver and gold, but few treasury notes. It is important that a
want of funds should not operate again as a preventive to
emigration.
Very Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S812. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S844
0290
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
February 19, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th
ult. on the subject of Elizabeth Ware’s and Anny Ratley’s claims.
With regard
to Mrs. Ware’s case I have to say that having since learned that her
six children having been for four years and are now under the care
of her mother, Mr. McNair, and that Jesse E. Bean has not been with
her, nor with the children since they are under the protection of
Mrs. McNair, I would respectfully suggest that the whole amount be
turned over to Mrs. McNair or her son Nicholas B. McNair who is a
very estimable and respectable Cherokee, for the benefit of the
children.
Respecting
Anny Ratley’s claim there must be some mistake. I transmit herewith
the original certificate of Messrs. Hunter and Bridges, then valuing
agents.
The Cherokees
are coming in very slowly notwithstanding. I have a number of
agents employed in various parts of the nation. Report after report
arrives from the delegation at
Washington, and some
are still disposed to believe that some alteration will yet be made
in the treaty. So soon however as they become satisfied that
nothing will be done, there will be a general movement towards the
west.
0291
I have fixed
the 10th inst. to send off the Cherokees that are now
collected and ready for removal. I fear however that the number of
this detachment will not exceed five hundred.
I have
appointed on the recommendation of Judge Wilson, one of the
commissioners, Doct. A.M. Folger of
North Carolina
attending physician in the service, David Heiner, and John Kell,
interpreter, which appointments I hope you will approve.
I have
stationed Doct. A.M. Folger at the post in
Walker
County,
Georgia,
Doct. Lillybridge at
Rawlingsville,
Ala., Doct. Townsend at
Ross’s Landing, and Doct. Hunter at this post.
Every effort
is now making to advance emigration, and I am yet in hopes that the
majority of the Cherokees will have removed before the time arrives
for the application of military force. Some of the most prominent,
influential, leading men are on the eve of coming over and they are
only prevented by the frequent use of the words “wait a little
longer – something will do done”, which cannot be repeated to them
much oftener.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt.
P.S. Mrs.
McNair is on the eve of starting to
Arkansas with the
children of Mrs. Ware.
N. Smith
Supt
0292
Ebenezer
Wilcox
Certificate
No 103
$344.50
1831 4th
Oct.
Bank paid
full and [?] on your order for that sum.
$23.00
0293
We certify
that Ebenezer Wilcox is a white man about five feet ten inches in
height, about fifty years of age, and that he claims right in his
Indian Family the he is one emigrant from the Cherokee Nation East
to the Cherokee Nation West of the Mississippi and from the state of
Georgia and that we have valued the property abandoned by him in
pursuance of instructions from the Department of War, which is of
the following description and value to wit, one cabin for ten
dollars, two cribs ten dollars, stable and lot, eight dollars,
thirty acres of Bottom Land at six dollars per acre, one hundred and
eighty dollars, ten acres of Bottom Land at six dollars. Sixty
dollars, other place: One cabin ten dollars, lots around the leap
three dollars, six acres of Bottom Land, thirty-six dollars, fifty
one [?] has at forty cents for seventy five dollars and fifty cents,
one apple tree for two dollars, amounting to three hundred and forty
four dollars and fifty cents which amount this certificate will
entitle the above Ebenezer Wilcox to receive in [?] the same in
person, to Major E.M. Duval the agent of the Cherokees of Arkansas
use this certificate with the proper recet’s thereon, will be Major.
Duval’s authority and voucher.
This certificate not transferable
Given under
our lands in the Cherokee Nation East of the
Mississippi
15th
July 1830.
[?] R.S.
Hunter
James
S.
Bridge
0294
blank
0295
Georgia
Cherokee
Nation
??
I do hereby
certify that the possession I now occupy on Ivy Log Creek, Toccoa
District is the property of Ebenezer Wilcox and that I draw of no
other person having any claim or right to the said possession. I so
[?] which I have hunted set my hand and [?] this
14th
July 1830.
Asa Keith
James S. [?]
[?]
Georgia
Cherokee Nation
[?] 6th
I do hereby
certify that this possession I now occupy on Coosa River Toccoa
District is the property of Ebenezer Wilcox and that I know of no
other person having any claim or right to the said possession. I
[?] whereof I have hunted site my hand and [?] this 14, July 1830.
[?]
Asa Kieth
Williams Jackson
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S844. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
March - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S846
0300
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
March 2, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to transmit herewith the claim of David Taylor for services
rendered in the Cherokee emigration.
As the records of my office do not show that he was employed by the
late superintendent, the case is respectfully submitted for your
consideration.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
For Genl. Nat
Smith
Supt. Ch. Reml.
J.N. Hetzel
0301
The claim of
David Taylor for compensation for services
0302
The U. States
1836 13th Sept.
To
David Taylor Dr,
For services
rendered at the special instance and request of Major B.F. Curry
special agent for the removal of Cherokee Indians, in bearing
expresses and messages to the valuing agent and inducing the
Cherokees to show their improvements to the valuing agents to be
valued (30) thirty days commencing the 13th day of August
and ending the 13th day of Sept. 1836 at ___ $2.50 per
day. $75.00
State of
Tennessee
Bradly County
This day
being the 1st day of Mach 1838, personally appears to the
above named David Taylor before me William H. Stone an acting
justice of the peace in and for said county, and maketh oath in due
form of law, that he has no means of proving the above account
except by his own oath, that the above account is just and correct
and that the services were rendered as stated given under his hand
the
0303
date above
mentioned.
From and subscribed
The said 1st
day of March
1838 before me.
W.H. Stone
J.P.B.C.
Vis.
David Taylor
March
State of
Tennessee
Bradly County
I James Bigby
a native of the Cherokee Nation, do certify that I saw David Taylor
during the time specified in the foregoing account, at my house in
the Cherokee Nation that he was engaged while there in persuading
myself and others to have our improvements valued under the late
treaty and to treat the valuing agent with respect and show our
improvements to them, whenever called on by them.
Given under my hand the 1st day of March 1838.
James Bigby
Juror
Cherokee
Agency
1st
March 1838
I was at
Valley Townes N. Carolina in command of the 1st Regt. E.J.
Volz in Sept. 1836 when David Taylor passed on with a letter as he
said from Majr. Curry Supt. Ch. Removal to myself
0304
Garrett and
Welch of Macan County N. Carolina notifying them of their
appointment of valuing agents and in a conversation with Mr. Garrett
he informed me that he received notice of his appointment by said
Taylor.
That shortly
after I received the appointment of supt.
Taylor called on me for
pay for said service, but not finding any record of this appointment
in my office I did not have him paid.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Cherokee Agency
March 2nd
1838
I certify
that in the fall of 1836 I was at Valley Townes, N.C. and saw David
Taylor bearing a letter directed to Messrs Garret and Welch which he
stated was sent them by B.F. Curry Superintendent of Cherokee
Removals, Saml Prince afterwards I heard of this returning to the
agency in company with those gentlemen and knew him to bring to
influence the Cherokees to have their improvements valued and meet
the laws of the government in carrying out the treaty of 1835 and
1836 he stated to me that had been employed by
0305
Maj. B.F.
Curry to perform the services charged for in the foregoing auth. And
from what I saw and heard I have not a doubt he did perform the
services charged.
Preston
Haisett
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S846. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S845
0297
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
March 8, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that the detachment of Cherokee emigrants, which
I purpose starting by water on Monday next, the 12th
inst. will not consist of many more than four hundred persons. The
Indians are still so wavering and unstable in their determinations
on the subject of removal, that I find my best founded expectations
liable to disappointment. This is to be accounted for in the single
fact now rendered clear and identifiable that so long as Mr. Ross
and his delegation remain in
Washington, the idea
prevails that efforts are still being made by them to alter the
treaty as to meet their expectations. That, possibly, the country
may yet be retained by them, and that a removal west during the
pendency of effort, may, should it finally succeed, deprive such as
had emigrated, of a share in the benefits. The language is “that
Mr. Ross is making great exertions for us, or he would return home,
and we cannot think of departing for the west until we see and
consult him.” So fixed are very many in this say that I believe I
hazard little in stating that a considerable proportion of this
unfortunate people will be found obstinately hanging on Mr. Ross’
return among them should that time be remote as a year to come, and
0298
all our
efforts to convince the Indians that the door is closed on the part
of the Executive and Congress upon any further negotiations relative
to the treaty, have no weight when Mr. Ross speaks differently, for
his word is worth more than the testimony of every white man in the
western country, and so long as he stands mysteriously aloof just so
long will the Cherokees be found procrastinating their removal and
they are not only becoming more vicious and debauched, but more
destitute and wretched every day.
The idea is
now prevalent that on Mr. Ross’ return he will call a general
council of the nation. One this subject I would respectfully remark
that I feel assured in my own mind should such privilege be granted,
it would not only embarrass emigration most seriously, but be
productive of the most disastrous consequences, for under such
circumstances I apprehended the most vigilant expectations could
scarcely preserve the peace of the country, and for war, I do
consider that we are not more by any means than well provided.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S845. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S847
0307
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
March 8, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to transmit herewith a muster roll of Cherokees permitted to
remove themselves between
the 1st
Dec. 1837, and
the 1st
March 1838. One copy of which I have forwarded to Lieut.
Van Horne and furnished one for the commissioners. I shall send
another copy to Mr. Van Horne in a few days.
Very Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Subt.
Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S847. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S918
0312
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
March 17, 1838
Sir,
Will you have
the goodness to furnish me with a memorandum of the amount of bacon,
flour, corn, etc. with which I am charged by the abstracts of Doct.
Minis.
Very Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S918. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S881
0309
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
March 22, 1838
Sir,
Since my
letter to you of the ___ inst. enclosing the copy of White Path’s
letter, I have been informed by the enrolling and collecting agents,
who have been traveling through all parts of the Cherokee Country,
that it is made known to the Cherokees generally that Mr. Ross and
Edward Gunter had written to their overseers to plant their crops as
usual. These letters with those heretofore written have and will
prevent the Cherokees from emigrating, and have caused them to come
to a settled determination not to leave the country until the time
allowed them by the treaty expires, believing that that the
delegation will yet effect something. A large majority of them are
making early preparations for planting their crops, notwithstanding
they have been notified by the agents that they will have to leave
immediately after the 23rd of May.
Tomorrow I shall start what few will go to their new homes. I fear
however that not over three hundred, out of fifteen hundred
enrolled, can be got off.
I am about
suspending operations, discharging my agents (excepting such as
necessary to keep in charge of the public property) until further
instructions, for I find it entirely unnecessary to make further
efforts at present.
0310
It is
exceedingly mortifying to me to be thus situated, but I do assure
you that I have used every means to get them off, of which I am
master. The only means left to convince them that the agents have
told them the truth and that they must remove is the application of
military force. When that comes in order, I will start a thousand
at least every fifteen days.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
P.S. By the
last mail I received the first letter from Lieut. Van Horne, dated
Jany. 16, 1838
Nat Smith
Supt.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S881. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
April - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S926
0325
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Commission of Indian
Affairs
April 15, 1838
Sir,
On the 25th
of last month I collected the few Cherokees I could induce to leave
started them by water and accompanied them to
Waterloo,
Alabama on their way to
their new homes. I there put them on board the steamer Smelter, and
a large keel prepared by Col. Smith agreeably to contract, and on
the morning of the 5th inst. they left all in good health
and spirits and reached Fort Gibson about the 13th if the
stage of water in the Arkansas would admit. The party consisted of
only about two hundred and fifty persons. Lieut. E. Deas went as
disbursing and conducting agent, Col. George. S. Massey and O.G.
parry assistant conductors. Doct. Lillybridge as physician and
William Reese and James Bigby as interpreters. I will forward a
muster roll of the party
(over)
0326
in a short
time. I was much gratified to find that Col. Smith had prepared his
boats of even better quality than his contract required. The
emigrants were much delighted with the preparations and mode of
transportation.
There are
about two hundred Cherokees now collected at this post, a few at
Ross’ Landing and a few at Rawlingsville. I shall make an attempt
to start another detachment on the 25th inst.
Very Respectfully
Yr. mo obt sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S926. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S932
0328
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Commission of Indian
Affairs
April 20, 1838
Sir,
As the time
will very soon arrive when the Cherokees must remove, I deem it my
duty to inform you that there are very many of them extremely poor
and bare of clothing particularly in the mountainous part of the
nation. The influence exercised to prevent them coming into the
measure of the government had also prevented them from coming
forward and receiving their part of the clothing and out of the fund
set apart for that purpose by the late treaty. I am informed that
there is not more than $10,000 in cash of that fund now on hand,
that the balance has been expended in subsistence, blankets, shoes,
etc. and that there are but few over 2,000 blankets, and not
exceeding 3,000 pair of shoes now on hand.
As there are
thousands of the poor that have not a second suit of clothes to
wear, I would respectfully suggest to you the propriety of having
the $10,000 now on hand laid out in clothing exclusively for the
destitute of the nation, and to be furnished to them when on the
even of emigrating.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt.
0329
We concur in
the suggestions contained in the written letter.
Most
respectfully
Yr. Ob. Servts.
John Kennedy
Tommy Ledelle
Commissioners
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S932. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S947
0331
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Commission of Indian
Affairs
23 April, 1838
Sir,
I have set
the 1st May to start another party of Cherokee Emigrants
to their new homes west; there are at this rendezvous and Ross’
Landing over three hundred desirous to remove, but I feel uninclined
to start them til at least six hundred are collected. They were
beginning to come in rapidly until the Cherokee deputation to
Florida returned home.
They, I have been informed both Indians and whites, are telling al
they see and writing to others not to come forward or do any act by
which they may bind themselves to go under the late treaty; but to
plant corn, and rest ? that the President cannot have them removed
under the late treaty even after the two years allowed them shall
have expired, unless, a ? of Congress authorizing him to do so, be
passed. That Congress will refuse to pass any such ?, and thus,
they will yet retain their country. And further to prejudice the
ignorant Indians against the gov’t and its officers, the Deputation
declare that they had to serve the gov’t in
Florida without any
compensation, that not were their necessary expenses were paid.
That in returning to ? homes from
Washington, of
necessity, and lack of means, they were compelled to walk a part of
the way. That they hired horses for the remainder of the journey,
which ? was paid by Mr. Lewis Ross etc., etc.
Hearing in
mind how ready the common uninformed Indians are influenced by
stories such as these coming from their principal men, in whom they
have all confidence, it cannot astonish you
0332
you that the
emigration of this people should be tedious and highly
embarrassing. For be assured never were more uniting efforts made
to encourage the [?] of any people under the sun; and with what
success, the progress of removal since the ratification of the
treaty is the fairest commentary.
In closing
this letter I would very respectfully suggest to you the propriety
of the enclosing to the commrs. and myself a statement of the
accounts of the Florida Deputation, that we may have the evidence in
our hands to hush the charge made against our gov’t. of
“faithlessness in all its engagements with Indians.”
I am ? most
respectfully
Your very obt. servt.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S947. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S951
0334
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
30th
April, 1838
Sir,
Since the
receipt of your letter of the 11th inst. a very great
(and I think permanent) change has taken place in favor of
emigration. Many of the (heretofore) most stubborn Cherokees have
come in and are now making preparations to leave speedily for their
new homes. The idea of being caught up by the military is very
appealing to them.
Very respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S951. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
May - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S981
0336
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
May 15, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that I recently appointed James C. Martin,
William Thompson, and Theod. P. Johnson collecting agents in the
Cherokee Emigration, and sent them to the
Georgia
part of the Cherokee Nation for the purpose of collecting a few
hundred Cherokees who I lately understood were in a destitute
condition and willing to remove.
The Cherokees
are now becoming serious in reality, and there is a general stir in
the nation: Many who never made their appearance at this place
before are now swarming in daily to settle their business and
prepare for removal. After the 23rd there will, I
apprehend, be no difficulty in bringing them in as fast as I can
send them off. I have about 400 collected now, and if I can get 200
more I will start a detachment on the 21st or 22nd
July.
Very
Repsectfully,
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S981. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S993
0338
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
May 25, 1838
Sir,
I regret to
inform you that I have just received intelligence from Paduca,
stating that the ware house of Messrs. Smedley and Co., in which the
provisions designed for Cherokee Emigrants were stored by Mr. Van
Antwerp, recently took fire, burned to the ground, and all the
provisions were destroyed.
I have been
notified by Genl. Scott that he expected to have all the Cherokees
in
Georgia
collected at one of the depots by the last of June, in the event of
no modification being made in the treaty. I have all necessary
preparations made, having upwards of 600,000 rations on hand, and
boats and waggons sufficient to my command to carry them off
comfortably. There is another check to emigration now in
consequence of reports from the Delegation that they had entered
into an arrangement with the Department by which they would be
permitted to continue some time longer, &c.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S993. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S996
0340
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
May 25, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to transmit herewith a Muster Roll of Cherokees permitted to
remove themselves to the country assigned them between the 1st
of March and the 23rd of May 1838.
Very
Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S996. Transcribed by
Roy Boney, Jr.
June - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S1043
0344
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
June 20, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that I recently made the following appointments,
which I respectfully request that you will approve, viz: Doctors
Netherland, Cottle, Hodsden, Hoyle, Morrow, Edington, Willoughby,
and Hetzel, attending physicians; R.M. Hook and A.S. Lenoir, as
Enrolling Agents; John A. Hook, E.S. Curry, P.H. Price, G.
Stubblefield, and Thomas Jones, assistant conductors; Jacob Godwin,
Warham Easley, Jefferson Grills, P.M. Craigmiles, Wm.Thompson, T.P.
Johnson, John Grant, Wm. Smith and James Smith, collecting and
issuing agents; Henry Bateman, conductor; Jack M. Perhson, Robertson
Brown, Jas. Brown, John Drew, Robert Benje, Wm. Woodward, Wm. L.
Holt, Johnson Reese, and Betsey Woodward, Interpreters; and R.M.
Ramsay, Waggon Master.
The additional physicians were appointed on the demand of Genl.
Scott, who required from 20 to 30 to accompany emigrants from the
places of primary assemblage to those of general rendezvous. As
there is considerable sickness among the Cherokees at this time,
there is employment for them all at the different depots, and on
their journey west, and they are still
0345
retained in
service.
Very
respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Em.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1043. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S1041
0342
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
June 21, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that in consequence of the suspension of
Emigration of the Cherokees by order of Genl. Scott, until the 1st
of September next, I have concluded on following the last part,
which started a few days ago by land, and accompany them to
Arkansas, with a view of prevailing on them to accept of clothing,
and mustering them; and also to correct other Muster Rolls.
I will start
tomorrow, and be absent about thirty days. I have left Capt. Page
in charge of the Superintendent’s duties until my return, and have
no doubt they will be performed to the satisfaction of the
Department.
Very Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Em.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1041. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
Emigration
Cherokees S1049
0347
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
June 22, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to request further indulgence with respect to the settlement
of my provision account. The condition of things there, and the
manner in which my time has been occupied for weeks past had
prevented my doing any thing else, but attend to the daily calls of
the emigrants, their subsistence, clothing, and comfort. On my
return from
Arkansas, the subject
shall receive my earliest attention.
Very Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Em.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1049. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
July - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S1073
0349
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Memphis,
Tennessee
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
3 July, 1838
Sir,
On the 23rd
ult. I left the Cherokee Agency East with a view to accompany the
party of Emigrants now on their way and on 25th reached
Bellefonte, Ala. where I found the party which consisted of 1070
when they left, Ross’ Landing on the 17 inst. by land for Waterloo,
Ala. and from there by water to their new homes. I found the health
of the party very much improved though attending physicians assure
me that two had come off the sick report to one new case since they
left the Landing but 5 deaths and 4 of them small children, only 11
on the sick report 6 of them children and non dangerous. This party
had learned previous to my overtaking them that Genl. Scott had
ordered that further emigration should be suspended until 1st
Sept. next, when the party left Ross Landing I requested the
commanding officer to furnish a guard of some 20 or 30 men to
accompany the detachment at least as far as Waterloo and further if
the conduction of the party believed it necessary. They were
furnished and accompanied there, until the 23rd when they
were ordered
0350
back very
unceremoniously not letting the conductor of the party know whether
or why it was done. After which and previous to this time I
overtook them at Bellefonte near 100 emigrants had deserted and on
the morning after I reached they made application to me to be
suffered to return to the agency and remain until fall, as they had
traveled over 120 miles their health improving and they were
provided for with transportation and subsistence. I determined they
should go on and I informed them, shortly after which about 300 of
them threw a part of their baggage out of the wagons took it and
broke for the wood and many of the balance refused to put there
baggage into the wagons or go any further and showed much ill
nature. Many of them told the agents who were with them that the
white man were all liars and bad men, and one of them came to me and
made the same observation and added further that he would go back
home the next morning and shout for John Ross that he had plenty of
money and he would fight for him. I immediately requested that
Capt. of the Town Company to call out his men and aid me in starting
them which had very promptly did, and we succeeded in gathering off
all that was left about
10 o’clock.
0351
A part of
those who broke off in the morning were found and made to return. I
put the party in charge of Capt. Drain of the Army and called on the
citizens for 30 volunteers to accompany him as a guard to
Waterloo. They turned
out immediately and I had the Capt. to muster them service for 30
days unless sooner discharged. As very many of this party were
almost naked, barefoot and suffering with fatigue although they had
not traveled over 9 miles per day. I determined to purchase some
clothing domestic for tints and shoes &c &c and issued to them which
was done on 26th inst. They rested on that day, in the
evening of which I called as many of the aged and infirm and their
families as would go by water to Waterloo and took them to the
river, put them on both of the boats engaged in the upper contract
and landed them next morning at Decator where I learned Lieut.
Whitely’s party were yet at Tuscumbria. I followed on and overtook
him and party at
Waterloo all doing very
well and gathering on board of the boats to leave which they did at
10 oc on 30 ult. in hand [?] detained by head winds for 1 ½ days or
in should have reached them on the morning of 2nd inst.
I hope my calling into service this guard will meet the approbation
of the Department.
0352
I[’m] fully
confident from the deportments of the Indians if it had not been
done that some of the Civil Agents would have been killed or had to
have killed some of the Cherokees, for grog shops and groceries are
to be [?] with very few miles, and when they get to drink they
become desperate and nothing short of the presence of armed men will
restrain them. I shall accompany this party to
Fort
Gibson. If the
water will admit and return and with Capt.Drains party and accompany
them to their homes.
Very
Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
0353
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Waterloo,
Ala.
Comm. Indian
Affairs
12 July 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that I reached this place about
10 o’clock A.M.
of this day from
Little Rock,
Ark. To which place I
accompanied Lieut. Whiteley’s party of Cherokees. We arrived at
3 o’clock P.M.
on the 6th inst. with 722 Cherokees out of over 1,000 who
left Ross’ Landing. They continued to desert some almost every
night until we put them on board of the boats at this place. On the
30th ult. 76 deserted the night before the party left
here. These people will have over 300 miles to travel to reach
their old homes, many of them women and children and of course must
suffer extremely for want of something to eat, &c.
Of the 3,000
which I wrote you from the Agency had left in the three parties not
over 2,000 will reach their new homes and all this for want of a few
armed men as a guard which I have politely asked the military for
but could not get them agreeably to my wish. I have been badly
treated by a part of the military
0354
here and if
they continue their course I would prefer their being withdrawn from
the country. I can remove the Cherokees now better without such
assistance as they give than with it. I have given the name of the
principal officer engaged in opposing the views of the government to
the commissioners and Genl. Scott. On reaching this place I found
Capt. Drane here with his party supposed to consist of 800 or 900 he
not having been able to muster them from their refusing to give
their names and numbers of their families. The same case happened
with Lieut. Whiteley’s party. He had to count them out of the
boats.
I will leave
on tomorrow or the day after with Capt. Drane’s party for their new
homes and will accompany them some two or three days at least.
Owing to the
hurry which I have been in since I left the agency I have not been
able to keep you as fully advised of my movements as I wished, but
hope to do better when I get this party off.
Very Respectfully
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1073. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
August - 1838
S1110
Emigration
Cherokees S1110
0356
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
16th Augt. 1838
Sir,
At the
special request of Genl. Scott, I herewith enclose to you a copy of
a contract entered into between Mr. John Ross and Mr. Lewis Ross for
subsisting the Cherokees and foraging their horses on their route
west, by which you will see that the Genl. recognizes Mr. John Ross
as Superintendent of Cherokee Removal.
Why it was
given me to forward to you, I cannot understand, unless it was
intended to inform me that my services were no longer needed as
Superintendent. If this inference be correct, I must ask for an
investigation of my Official Conduct, as I take it for granted that
if it was the intention of the Department to have me superseded, I
should have been advised of the fact.
Very Respectfully
Yr. mo. obt. sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Removal
0357
Copy of
Articles of Agreement between John Ross and others and Lewis Ross
for subsistence of the Emigrating Cherokees, &c.
0358
COPY
Articles of
agreement entered into this tenth day of August one thousand eight
hundred and thirty eight, between John Ross, Principal Chief and
Superintendent of Removal and Subsistence, of Edward Gunter, Richard
Taylor, James Brown, Elijah Hicks, Situakee and White Path on behalf
of the Cherokee Nation East of the river Mississippi of the first
part and Lewis Ross of said nation of the second part witnesseth.
That the aforesaid John Ross, Edward Gunter, Richard Taylor, James
Brown, Elijah Hicks, Situakee and White Path do by these presents
covenant and agree with said Lewis Ross as herein after specified,
that is to say, the said Lewis Ross will furnish supplies to the
Emigrating Cherokees on their journey to the West to be delivered at
such points as my be required at the rate of sixteen cents per
ration which shall consist of the following items, viz: one pound of
fresh beef or pork, or three quarters of a pound of salt pork or
bacon, three half pints of corn meal, or one pound of wheat flour
(and if at any point on the route it should be impracticable to
procure either flour or meal, the said Lewis Ross is permitted to
furnish in lieu of the rations of flour or meal, three half pints of
corn.) also four pounds of coffee, eight pounds of sugar and four
quarts of salt to every hundred rations, all of which shall be of
good and [?] quality. Also the said Lewis Ross engages to furnish
forage for the teams of horses employed in said emigration at the
rate of forty cents per day for each horse, or a mule the ration to
consist of one pack of corn, or twelve quarts of oats and eight
pounds of [?] fodder. And the said Lewis Ross further engages to
supply three pounds of good hard soap for every hundred rations, at
the rate of fifteen cents per pound. And the said John Ross, Edward
Gunter, Richard Taylor, James Brown, Elijah Hicks, Situakee and
White Path, for and in consideration of the faithful
0359
performance
of the foregoing engagements on the part of the said Lewis Ross do
herby covenant and agree to make payments to him form time to time
on account, provide the means for so doing be furnished by the
Unites States, and finally to make faithful payment of the balance
of the whole account agreeably to the receipts of the authorized
agents of the nation, accompanying the serial Detachment.
In testimony
whereof the parties aforesaid have hereunto set their hands and
affirmed their seals at the Cherokee Agency East on the day and date
above written.
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in presence of
Thomas C.
Hindman
Geo. M. Morrell
Eran Jones
Replicates
signed,
Jno Ross Seal
Edward Gunter Seal
R. Taylor Seal
James Brown Seal
Elijah Hicks Seal
White Path his X seal
Lewis Ross mark seal
It is also
understood and agreed by the parties to the foregoing agreement that
the Creek Indians who are now within the Cherokee Nation east and
who are to be removed with the Cherokees are to be included under
this construct. Witness our hands and seals this tenth day of
August 1838.
Witness
Thomas. C Hindman
Signed,
John Ross seal
Lewis Ross seal
Headquarters
Eastern Divison
True Copy
H.B. Shaw
A.D.C.
0360
COPY
Know all men
by the present that we Lewis Ross and John McGree are hereby held
and firmly bound unto John Ross Principal Chief of the Cherokee
Nation East and Superintendent of the removal and subsistence of the
Cherokee Indians and Edward Gunter, Richard Taylor, James Brown,
Elijah Hicks, Situakee, and White Path, authorized agents of the
Cherokee Nation in the penal sums of one hundred thousand dollars to
the payment of which [?]and truly to be made, we bind our and each
of ourselves, our and each of our heirs, executors, administrators,
and assigns, jointly and severally, firmly by these present signed
with our names sealed with our seals, and dated this tenth day of
August in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and
thirty eight.
The condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above
bound Lewis Ross has this day entered into an agreement with John
Ross aforesaid and others to furnish supplies to the emigrating
Cherokee Indians from the Cherokee Nation East to their new homes
west of Mississippi, which will more fully appear by reference being
and to the foregoing agreement of the date hereof, signed by the
parties. Now, if the said Lewis Ross shall well and truly keep and
comply with his covenant as mentioned in said agreement, then this
obligation to be void, else to remain in full force.
Witness
Thomas C. Hindman
Geo. M. Murrell
Evan Jones
Signed
triplicates
Lewis Ross seal
John McGee seal
Headquarters,
Eastern Division
True Copy
H.B. Shaw
A.D.C.
September - 1838
October - 1838
Emigration
Cherokees S1200
0364
Hon.
C.A.
Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Comm.
Ind.
Affairs
October 18, 1838
Sir,
I have the
honor to inform you that in order to pay the expenses connected with
the removal of the Cherokees, and to wind up the business here, an
additional sum of not less than $100,000 will be required. I have
therefore to request that you will take into consideration the
propriety of immediately forwarding that amount to Capt. Page.
Very Respectfully
Yr. Mo. Obt. Sert.
Nat Smith
Supt. Ch. Em.
Source: National Archives
Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1200. Transcribed
by Roy Boney, Jr.
November -1838
December - 1838

[Home] | [Bibliography] |
[Digital Library]
[Indexes] | [News] |
[Trail of Tears]
[Symposia] |
[Other Resources] | [About] |
[Links]

© UALR American Native Press Archives 2002-2007
|