Nathaniel Smith:
Correspondence Regarding Cherokee Removal

Source: National Archives Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S1110.  Transcribed by Roy Boney, Jr.

1837
 

April - 1837:
 

S289, S290

Emigration Cherokee – S289

0153

Hon. C.A. Harris
Cherokee Agency East

Corrs. Ind Affairs
24^th April 1837

Sir,

In my letter to you of the 28^th 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:
 

S313, S342
 

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 16^th 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
 

S368, S367, S383, S388
 

Emigration Cherokees S368

0173

Hon. C.A. Harris
Cherokee Agency East
Com. Ind. Affairs                                                    
Jun 5^th, 1837

Sir,

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 20^th 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 23^rd 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 3^rd 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 11^th 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 29^th 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 7^th and 11^th 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 14^th 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 11^th 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                                                  
14^th 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                                                
5^th June 1837

Sir

Since I had the honor to receive your letter of the 29^th 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

                                                                                    24^th 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 22^nd 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 10^th and remained until the 18^th 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 1^st 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                                                    
24^th 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 31^st 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
 

S399, S420, S434, S436
 

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 20^th 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 11^th 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                                                    
20^th 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                                                   
27^th July 1837

Sir,

By the mail of the 25^th I had the honor to receive your letter of the 12^th 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
 

S475, S494, S504
 

Emigration Cherokees S475

0211

Hon. C.A. Harris
Cherokee Agency
Com. Ind. Affairs                                                    

12^th 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                                                    
24^th 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                                                    

25^th 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 1^st 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 17^th, 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 20^th 1837

Source: National Archives Microfilm Publications, Microcopy 574, Roll 4, S504.  Transcribed by Roy Boney, Jr.

September - 1837
 

S523, S541, S524, S542, S543
 

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 20^th 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                                                    
4^th 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 3^rd instant I instructed him to bring them and all others who might be willing to remove to this place, by the 12^th 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 4^th 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 20^th inst.  The prospect for emigrating this fall is much more flattering than I had heretofore calculated on.  I reached this on the 4^th 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 5^th 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                                                    
18^th 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                                                    
22^nd Sept, 1837

Sir,

About the 6^th 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
 

S584, S617, S625
 

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 15^th 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 15^th.

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 13^th 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
 

S629, S627, S659, S674
 

Emigration Cherokees S629

0242

Hon. C.A. Harris                                                     
Cherokee Agency East
Com. Ind. Affairs                                                    
1 Nov. 1837

Sir,

Enclosed herewith you will find my 3^rd quarterly statement of agents and others employed in the services of Cherokee emigration for the quarter ending 30^th 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 26^th with the contract and the bond appointed to have filled with ample security for the performance and will reach Washington City about the 15^th 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 1^st 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 23^rd 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 23^rd 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 17^th 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 20^th 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 24^th 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 16^th ult. and are now on their way to Arkansas.  A few are enrolling at the several depots for emigration by water about the 1^st 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
 

S702, S714, S717, S725
 

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 23^rd 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 6^th 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 1^st 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 15^th 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 23^rd 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 13^th 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 13^th 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 20^th 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 14^th 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
 

S777
 

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 5^th 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 10^th 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 3^rd 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 19^th 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 10^th 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 4^th 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 15^th 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 14^th July 1830.

Asa Keith
James S. [?]
[?]

Georgia
Cherokee Nation

[?] 6^th

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
 

S846, S845, S847, S918, S881
 

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 13^th 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 13^th day of August and ending the 13^th day of Sept. 1836 at ___ $2.50 per day.  $75.00

State of Tennessee
Bradly County

This day being the 1^st 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 1^st 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 1^st day of March 1838.

James Bigby Juror

Cherokee Agency
1^st March 1838

I was at Valley Townes N. Carolina in command of the 1^st 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 2^nd 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 12^th 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 1^st Dec. 1837, and the 1^st 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 23^rd 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
 

S926, S932, S947, S951
 

Emigration Cherokees S926

0325

Hon. C.A. Harris                                                                 
Cherokee Agency East
Commission of Indian Affairs                                           
April 15, 1838

Sir,

On the 25^th 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 5^th inst. they left all in good health and spirits and reached Fort Gibson about the 13^th 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 25^th 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 1^st 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                                                           
30^th April, 1838

Sir,

Since the receipt of your letter of the 11^th 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
 

S981, S993, S996
 

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 23^rd 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 21^st or 22^nd 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 1^st of March and the 23^rd 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
 

S1043, S1041, S1049
 

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 1^st 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
 

S1073
 

Emigration Cherokees S1073

0349

Hon. C.A. Harris                                                                 
Memphis, Tennessee
Comm. Ind. Affairs                                                            
3 July, 1838

Sir,

On the 23^rd ult. I left the Cherokee Agency East with a view to accompany the party of Emigrants now on their way and on 25^th 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 1^st 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 23^rd 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 26^th 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 2^nd 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 6^th 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 30^th 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                                                            
16^th 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
 

S1200
 

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
 

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