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A Chronicle, 1830-1849
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Choctaw
Chickasaw Delegation.-A
Delegation, consisting of several Chiefs and Warriors of the Chickasaw nation of
Indians, passed up through the Big Prairie, on Monday last, under the direction
of Col. Reynolds, U.S. Agent for that nation. We saw and conversed, yesterday, with
Mr. Ireland, one of the gentlemen attached to the party, and learn from him, that
the object of the Delegation is to explore and select a country west of Arkansas,
for the future residence of their nation, which is to be guaranteed to them by the
Government, in exchange for the country which they have recently ceded to the United
States east of the Mississippi. The country which they have in view, and which they
will explore first, is that lying between the Arkansas and Canadian, and west of
the tract set apart for the Creeks.
We are also informed, by the same gentleman, that a
delegation from the Choctaw nation will set out soon, for the purpose of exploring
the country which they own west of our Territory, preparatory to making arrangements
for the general removal of that nation from the country which they have recently
ceded on the east side of the Mississippi. The route of that Delegation will lie
through the southern part of the Territory, and we presume that most of the emigration
from that nation will ascend Red river. We were in hopes that an arrangement might
have been made with the Choctaws, for the accommodation of the Chickasaws within
the country belonging to them, which is abundantly large for the accommodation of
both nations. But we understand that a proposition to that effect was made by the
Commissioners on the part of the U.S., at the Treaty ground, and rejected by the
Choctaws. Such an arrangement would no doubt have tended to mutual advantage and
security of both parties, as it is understood that the most friendly and amicable
relations subsist between the two nations.
Arkansas Gazette, November 3, 1830
A Delegation from
the Choctaw Nation east of the Mississippi, passed up through the Big Prairie, last
week, for the purpose of exploring the lands belonging to that Nation west of this
Territory. They were under the direction of Maj. Gaines, (formerly U.S. Factor in
the Old Choctaw Nation), who accompanies them as the Agent of the Government, and
who visited this place, last week, for the purpose of procuring such supplies as
the Delegation stand in need of to enable them to prosecute their long and arduous
journey.
Maj. Gaines was present when the late treaty was concluded
with the Choctaws and we understand from him, that no intimation was given them
that land would be given to them within the limits of this Territory, and that they
do not expect any addition to the vast country which they now own beyond our western
boundary, and which the present Delegation are about to explore, preparatory to
a general removal of their people from the lands which they have recently ceded
to the U.S. on the east side of the Mississippi.
Arkansas Gazette, November 24, 1830
Removal of the Choctaws.-We
learn, by a gentleman from Hempstead county, that the Choctaw Indians have commenced
emigrating from the country which they have recently ceded east of the Mississippi,
to their lands on our western frontier. Several hundred have already came over,
and arrangements are making for immediately putting a Missionary School into operation
in their new country. A considerable portion of the nation may be expected over
in the course of the ensuing Spring, and the removal of the obstructions in the
navigation of Red river, occasioned by the raft, (which work is progressing very
favorably, will facilitate their emigration, and greatly reduce the expense to the
Government of removing them to their new homes.
Arkansas Gazette, December 29, 1830
CHICKASAW AND
CHOCTAW DELEGATIONS
Col. Reynolds, U.S. Agent for the Chickasaw nation of Indians, who passed through
the Territory in the early part of November last, with a Delegation from that nation,
for the purpose of exploring and selecting a country, West of Arkansas, for the
future permanent residence of the Chickasaws; and Maj. GAINES, a special Agent appointed
for the purpose by the President, who likewise passed through our Territory in the
latter part of the same month, with a Deputation of Choctaw Indians, for the purpose
of exploring the lands belonging to that nation West of this Territory, preparatory
to the general removal of that tribe West of the Mississippi, arrived here on Sunday
evening last, from Red river, on their return home. The Indians composing their
respective parties, with their pack-horses and baggage, arrived yesterday, and crossed
the river last evening, and will proceed on their journey homeward this morning.
In a conversation which we have had with these gentlemen,
we are gratified to learn, that, notwithstanding the inclemency of the winter, they
have encountered fewer difficulties, on account of the weather, than could have
reasonable been expected at this season of the year, on so long and laborious a
journey. Fortunately for them, there has been but little rain in that western region
during the winter, in consequence of which the water-courses were low and generally
fordable, and they found a great abundance of buffaloe, and other game, on their
route, for the plentiful subsistence of their parties.
The following brief outline of their route, taken from
memory, will give a faint idea of the extent of that journey which they have performed.
Col. Reynolds proceeded with his party up the Arkansas
as far as Cantonment Gibson, and from thence shaped his course to the south. Maj.
Gaines went no farther up the Arkansas than the mouth of the Canadian, and proceeded
up that river to its South Fork, where he fell in with Col. Reynolds' party. The
two parties then united, and generally kept together, or in the neighborhood of
each other, during the remainder of their journey. They then proceeded up the Canadian
to the Cross Timbers, estimated to be about 200 miles west of the western boundary
of this Territory. From this point they shaped their course southerly, until they
reached the Fausse Washita; thence easterly, the two parties separating, (Col. Reynolds'
passing through the interior, and Maj. Gaines' near the southern side, of the Choctaw
country), and, after crossing Blue, Boggy, and other rivers of note, the names of
which we do not recollect, united again near the mouth of the Kiamiche. From thence
they proceeded through the remainder of the Choctaw country, a distance of about
40 miles, to our western boundary, and thence, via Washington, to this place.
We understand they have thoroughly explored the country
embraced within the above limits, particularly that portion of it which lies nearest
our Territory, and they represent it to be generally well wooded, and to contain
a very large proportion of excellent farming land-amply sufficient to sustain a
numerous and dense population. The water-courses generally head near the Canadian,
and empty into Red river. Their bottoms are from half a mile to two miles wide,
not subject to inundation, and covered with a heavy growth of cane to their sources.
The prairies through which they passed, are generally very fertile, and a large
portion of the country abounds with lime-stone.
Both parties of the Indians, we understand, are highly
pleased with the country which they have explored, and we entertain sanguine hopes
that they will make such a report of it, on their return to their brethren, as will
tend to promote the views of the Government in facilitating their removal west of
the Mississippi.
Arkansas Gazette, February 9, 1831
Natchez, Jan. 19
The Choctaws.-Almost
every day furnishes some new proof of the anxiety of this people to make their departure
for their new home beyond the Mississippi. A gentleman of veracity and intelligence,
who has just returned from a tour through the greater part of the South-western
district of their nation, informs us that he had seen and conversed with the principal
men of the nation, who assured him that the Indians were quite anxious that the
treaty should be ratified in good faith. About fifteen hundred had already gone
to their new country on the Red river, and these among the most industrious and
intelligent of the tribe; many more were ready to set out, but had not the means
of travelling. All were desirous of a free communication between them and the whites,
in order to afford them an opportunity of disposing of their hogs, cattle and other
property. Laflore, the principal chief, and a man of the greatest influence among
the Choctaws, is desirous that Government should furnish him with a steam-boat this
spring, to transport from 1,500 to 2,000 of his countrymen to a point on the Washita,
within three days' land journey to a point in their new country, where they intend
to make a permanent location. Corn meal and pork is the provisions they wish for.
This gentleman has also conversed with the principal
men who had been sent to explore the new country.-Their report is very favorable
as to soil and climate; the country abounds in game, lime stone, stone coal, and
excellent water. They brought with them the horns and tails of the buffaloes they
had killed; and say they would not have returned for the property they left behind;
but only for their wives and children.
Arkansas Gazette, February 16, 1831
HIGHLY INTERESTING,
To the Farmers, Graziers, and Salt Manufacturers,
of Arkansas.
We are indebted to the politeness of Lieut. Carter,
of the U.S. Army, who recently passed through this place on his way to the southern
counties, for copies of the following Order and Report, which we take much pleasure
in laying before our readers. It will be seen, that Lt. C. has been ordered to the
southern counties of this Territory, for the purpose of ascertaining the present
and future resources of that section of our country, for furnishing the necessary
rations of beef, pork, corn and salt, for the subsistence of the Indians who will
shortly emigrate to the country assigned them on this side of the Mississippi; and
it will likewise be seen, that his report is favorable to the present capability
of the country for furnishing the provisions required, and at moderate prices.
Upwards of 400 Choctaws, we understand, have already
emigrated, in detached parties, to their lands west of this Territory, and the emigration
of from one to two thousand more is anticipated during the present year. In the
course of next year and the year following, 18 or 20,000 more of the same nation
will follow, and it is also expected that several thousands of the Chickasaws will
emigrate during the same period.
All these Indians have to be supported by the Government
for one year after their arrival at their new homes; and it gives up pleasure to
find that the Government has wisely determined to give our citizens the preference
in furnishing the provisions for their subsistence. The subsistence of such a vast
number of Indians will give profitable employment to our farmers, by furnishing
an excellent market for all the beef, pork, corn, &c. that they can raise, and at
prices that will afford them a better reward for their labor than the raising of
cotton, at the present depressed prices of that article. As the season for planting
is approaching, we would advise our farmers and planters to curtail their cotton
crops and extend their fields of corn, with a view of benefiting by the new market
for the latter article which will be offered by the emigrating Indians.
The route which the Choctaws and Chickasaws will travel,
in emigrating to their new homes, is not yet, we believe, fully determined on; but
it is quite probable that a large proportion of them will cross the Mississippi
at Helena, and White river at the Mouth of Cache, and proceed on the Memphis Road
in the direction of this place. Those who intend settling on the Arkansas, will
diverge to the right in the Big Prairie, and proceed up the river, on the Military
Road; and those who intend settling in the neighborhood of Red River, will cross
the Arkansas at or in the neighborhood of this place, and take the main road to
the south, through Washington, &c., to their destination. It is probable, also,
that some who intend settling in the Red river country, will cross the Mississippi
near our southern boundary, and proceed west through the southern part of the Territory.
A considerable number of the emigrants will likewise proceed up the Arkansas and
Red rivers in steam-boats and other modes of water conveyance; but we have good
reason to believe that by far the largest proportion of them will proceed by land
by the different routs indicated above.
We have deemed it proper to give the above sketch of
the different routes which the Indians will be likely to travel in emigrating through
our Territory, for the purpose of apprising our citizens of the market which may
be expected for almost every description of provisions which they can raise. They
must necessarily scatter large sums of money through our Territory in procuring
the means of subsistence on their journey, and we hope our citizens will look well
to their interest in providing themselves with a sufficient surplus of provisions
to meet the demands of the emigrants. The receipts from those sources will prove
a very seasonable relief to those who complain of the "hard times" and scarcity
of money.
Arkansas Gazette, February 23, 1831
Office of the Comy. Gen'l. of Subsistence,
Washington, 30th Nov. 1830.
SIR-I am apprized by the Secretary of War, that about
one thousand Choctaw Indians will immediately emigrate to the Kiamitia, probably
to the neighborhood of Can't. Towson.-The balance of the Nation, consisting of 18
or 19,000 souls, will probably emigrate in two or three years. Col. Arbuckle has
been instructed to relieve you, and you will consider this an order to repair with
as little delay as possible, to the vicinity of Cant. Towson, and make yourself
thoroughly acquainted with the present and probable future resources of the country,
for furnishing the Indian ration, of Corn, Beef or Pork, and Salt. The result of
your observations and inquiries will be fully and freely detailed to this office,
as early as practicable. You are requested to apprize the nearest settlers of the
probable market they will soon have for their corn and cattle, and hold out every
probable inducement for them to raise both, in quantities sufficient to meet the
expected demand. The length of your absence on this duty, will depend on circumstances;
but you are requested to remain, while you can promote the object of your journey.
On leaving Can't. Gibson, apprize me where to address you.
Very respectfully, your most ob't. serv't.
(Signed) Geo. Gibson, C.G.S.
Lt. L.F.Carter,
A.C.S. Can't. Gibson.
WASHINGTON, HEMPSTEAD CO., A.T.
17th February, 1831.
SIR-I have the honor to say, that, in obedience to your
instructions of the 30th November last, I have visited the country in the vicinity
of Cant' Towson and all the principal settlements in Hempstead and Sevier counties,
which, together with the counties of Lafayette, Clark, and Union, that are also
proximate to the Choctaw country, will, I have no doubt, be able to supply the provisions
requisite to subsist the Indians expected to emigrate to this country. This opinion
is founded more upon the representations of intelligent gentlemen of the country,
whose veracity cannot be questioned, than upon personal observation. Every proper
exertion has also been used to induce the farmers of Hempstead and Sevier counties,
to engage largely in the cultivation of corn, as it is from these two counties that
the supply must be furnished; and I am gratified in being able to report, that this
part of the ration will be abundant, and can be furnished at a moderately cheap
rate by the ensuing fall. Establishments for the manufactory of salt, in this part
of the country, are very numerous, and will at any time be ready to furnish the
requisite quantity of this article.
I am assured, that, at this time, the four counties
nearest the Choctaw country, can furnish at least 1,500 beeves, any number of hogs,
6,000 bushes of corn, and salt in large quantities; but, supposing this an exaggerated
account, I am convinced the settlements on the Arkansas river, will more than make
up any deficiency, and many on that river would no doubt, be glad to participate
in the contracts. I here beg leave, therefore, respectfully to suggest to the Department,
the propriety of making five or six, instead of one general contract; this will
enable many to participate, who, under other circumstances, would be left almost
entirely to the mercy of speculators, and result, I think, in a saving to the Government.
The salt should be contracted for separately, and the
other parts of the ration in five different contracts. The expense of transporting
these articles from this section of the country, to some convenient place for issue,
will be considerable, and, at present, no method presents itself by which the difficulty
can be obviated.
It is generally supposed here, from the representations
of Col. Gaines, the gentleman who accompanied the exploring party, that a large
number of the Choctaws will settle west of the Kiamichi river. Should this be the
case, the most convenient place for issues will be near the junction of that
river with Red river, where, I believe, the different parts of the ration may be
delivered, by contract, at nearly the following prices, viz:
Beef or Pork, at from $2 50 to $3 pr. 100 lbs.
Corn, at from 87 1/2 to $1 12 1/2 pr. bushel.
Salt, at from $1 12 1/2 to $1 25 pr. bushel.
Such is the scarcity of money in the country, and so
great the demand for it, that I cannot but believe, if due notice is given, that
the contracts will be taken at very fair prices. Should meal be substituted in place
of corn, the change will be attended by considerable increase of expense, and will
frequently render a compliance with engagements almost impracticable.
There are yet tow settlements that I have been prevented
from visiting by high water; should any thing new occur, it will be immediately
communicated.
I shall be extremely anxious to return to Can't. Gibson,
unless my remaining here can subserve your views. Be so good as to have your wishes
communicated to me, at this place, as soon as convenience will permit.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your ob't. serv't.
L.F.Carter, Lt. and A.C.S. 7th Inf.
Gen. George Gibson, C.G.S. Washington, D.C.
Arkansas Gazette, February 23, 1831
Lieut. L.F. Carter,
Acting Commissary of Subsistence U.S.A., arrived at this place on Sunday last, from
the southern part of the Territory, where he has been for some time past for the
purpose of ascertaining the capacity of that section of the country for furnishing
the requisite supplies to subsist the Indians who are expected to emigrate from
the east side of the Mississippi, during the present and ensuing years. His report
to the Commissary General of Subsistence, dated 17th ult., was published in the
Gazette of 23d ult.; and we are gratified to learn from him, that his observations
since that time, fully confirm the opinion expressed by him in that report, as to
the capability of the country for furnishing the necessary supplies of provisions
and salt, for the subsistence of the emigrating Indians.
We also learn from Lt. C., that Lieut. J. R. Stephenson,
of 7th Inf., has been ordered to the vicinity of the Kiamechia river, with a view
to subsist the Choctaw emigrants that have or may hereafter reach the country. He
has already made arrangements that will meet the current demands for the ensuing
two or three months, at the expiration of which time a contract will be made to
furnish the requisite supplies for the present year.
Arkansas Gazette, March 30, 1831
Captain Clark, of
the Commissary Department, arrived here on Wednesday last from St. Louis, on his
way to Fort Smith, where, we understand, is to be established a depot for the reception
of stores intended for the use of the emigrating Choctaws.
Arkansas Advocate, April 13, 1831
Capt. Clark, of the
Commissary Department of the U.S. Army, returned to this place, a few days ago,
from Fort Smith, where he has been employed, for a few weeks past, in superintending
the repairs of the public store-houses at that place, for the reception of the provisions
to be collected at that point for the subsistence of the emigrating Indians.
We understand, from
Capt. Clark, that he has been advised by the Secretary of War, that Col. Reynolds
and Maj. Gaines, (who superintended the two exploring parties of Chickasaw and Chocktaw
Indians which visited the country west of Arkansas, last winter), have reported
in favor of ferrying the emigrating Indians across the Mississippi, at Helena, and
transporting them by land from thence to their several points of destination. This
route, we believe, had not been decided on by the Secretary of War; but there can
be little doubt, that the recommendation of those gentlemen will have great weight
with him. If it be selected, as we have no doubt, it will, those who intend settling
on the Arkansas, will proceed direct to the west from the Big Prairie; and those
destined for Red river, will cross the Arkansas at or near this place, and proceed
to the south, via Washington. The emigration will commence as early as September
or October next; and as several thousands may be expected, we hope our citizens
who reside on the routes they may travel, will be prepared to furnish them with
such provisions as they may stand in need of, for which they will receive the ready
cash. They will afford a ready and excellent market for every kind of produce that
our citizens may have to dispose of.
Arkansas Gazette, May 25, 1831
By reference to the
Proposals for furnishing sixty yoke of oxen, in our advertising page, it will be
seen that Captain Clark will now receive bids for any number of oxen, from ONE to
ten pair-instead of, as before advertised, from three to ten yoke.
Arkansas Advocate, June 13, 1831
Little Rock, A.T.
May 25th, 1831.
Sealed Proposals will be received by the subscriber,
at this place, until the sixth day of July next, for the delivery of sixty pair,
or yoke, of oxen, between the age of five and nine years old, to be in good order,
well broke to work, and no ox to weigh less than six hundred pounds.
It is proposed to enter into separate contacts for any
number of oxen from one, to ten pair, until the whole number required are contracted
for; the oxen to be delivered at this place between the 20th and 31st of August
next.
Persons making proposals will please state the number
of pair they can furnish, together with the age and weight, and the price at which
they will be delivered.
Good and sufficient security for the faithful performance
of contracts will be required, and payment will be made on the delivery of the oxen;
persons unknown to the subscriber, will please give respectable references as to
their capacity to furnish; it is also desirable that they should come to this place
to close their contracts.
J.B. CLARK, Capt. U.S. Army, Sup'g. Reml. And Subst,
of Indians.
Arkansas Advocate, June 13, 1831
Little Rock, July 30th, 1831
Sealed Proposals will be received by the subscriber at this place, until the
16th of August, 1831, for supplying fresh beef, corn and salt for the Indians from
Little Rock, Arkansas Territory, by the way of Washington, Hempstead county, to
the Choctaw country, near the mouth of Kiamechia, the number of the Indians to be
supplied will be about five thousand--the provisions to be deposited for issue,
at intervals of from eighteen to twenty-four miles--to be regulated by places convenient
to water--the quantity to be deposited at each stand, will be about 300 bushes of
corn, 15,000 pounds of beef, and 6 1/2 bushels of salt, (32 quarts to the bushel,)
the beef to be slaughtered and delivered in quarters, and the hides to be the property
of the contractor. The Indians it is believed, will pass this place about the 12th
October next.
Persons making proposals will please state the price
at which they will furnish the ration, to consist of one and a half pounds of beef,
one pint of corn, and two quarts of salt, to every hundred rations; they will also
state the price at which they will furnish beef by the pound, and corn and salt
by the bushel.
The subscriber reserves to himself the privilege of
issuing to the Indians four days' rations of flour and pork at Little Rock, and
the same at Washington, Hempstead county.
Good and sufficient security will be required for the
faithful performance of the contract. Persons making bids will please attend at
this place, on the 17th of August, that there may be no delay in closing a contract.
J.B. CLARK, Capt. U.S.A. Supt'ng R.&S. of Indians.
Note.--Proposals will be received for supplying provisions
from the Mississippi to Little Rock, as soon as the crossing place is ascertained,
of which notice will be given.
Arkansas Advocate, August 31, 1831
Proposals for Beef.
Little Rock, Sept. 15th, 1831
Sealed Proposals will be received, by the subscriber, at this place, until the
22d day of October, 1831, for the delivery of one million and eighty thousand pounds
of fresh beef. At the Mouth of Kiamechia on Red River, on the 20th day of December,
1831.
It is the wish of the subscriber to divide the above
quantity of Beef into three separate contracts; persons making proposals will please
state the price at which they will deliver at the place above named, Three hundred
and sixty thousand pounds of Beef, in bulk on the hoof; also, the price at which
they will slaughter and deliver the same quantity, the hides and tallow, in the
latter case, to be the property of the contractor.
Good and sufficient security will be required for the
faithful performance of contracts, and payment will be made at this place, on producing
the receipts of the United States' Agent at Kiamechia, for the delivery of the Beef.
Persons making proposals will please attend at this
place on the 28th day of October, that contracts may be closed as soon as practicable.
J.B. CLARK, Capt. U.S. Army, Supt'g. the Rem'l. & Sub's
of Indians.
Arkansas Advocate, October 12, 1831
Removal of Indians.-We understand that Capt.
J.B. CLARK, superintendent for the subsistence and removal of the emigrating Indians,
who is located at this place, received advices by the last mail, that the Choctaws
are collecting for the purpose of removing to their lands west of Arkansas, and
that they will shortly be ready to cross the Mississippi at the following points,
viz: Vicksburg, Point Chicot, Mouth of White river, and Memphis, under the direction
and control of such Agents as have been appointed to superintend their subsistence
and removal.-We also learn, that, in addition to the parties about crossing at the
above named places, under the direction of Agents of the Government, a party consisting
of about 200 souls, is collecting, for the purpose of emigrating in their own way,
and accepting the commutation of $10 per head offered by the Government, in lieu
of rations, &c. The last named party will cross the Mississippi at Memphis, and
will pass to their new homes at Kiamicha, via this place, and Washington, in Hempstead
country.
We are also informed, that Lieut. Ryan has received
a letter from Maj. Hook, of the Commissary Department, advising him that the Cherokees
within the State of Georgia are about to emigrate to Arkansas, and that the appointment
of Superintendent of their removal had been offered to an officer of the Army.
Arkansas Gazette, October 19, 1831
Capt. Jacob Brown, of the U.S. Army, arrived here on
Monday last. He succeeds Capt. Clark, as Superintendent of the removal and subsistence
of the Emigrating Indians, the latter gentleman having requested to be relieved,
and permitted to join his Company in the 3d Infantry, which has been recently ordered
to Cantonment Towson.
Arkansas Gazette, October 19, 1831
In our last, we omitted
to mention the arrival of Capt. Brown, of the U.S. Army. He succeeds Capt. Clark,
we understand, as superintendent of the removal and subsistence of the Emigrating
Indians, Capt. C. having requested permission to join his Company at Cantonment
Towson.
Arkansas Advocate, October 26, 1831
The Emigrating Indians-We
learn, that Capt. Brown, Superintending the Removal of the Indians, has received
information from the Old Choctaw Nation, east of the Mississippi, that not less
than 7,000 Choctaws will emigrate to their new homes west of the Arkansas, during
the present season. Some 400 or 500 of this number, will remove on their own resources,
and accept the commutation of $10 per head, offered by the Government, on their
arrival at their new homes. The remainder will remove under the direction of Agents
of the Government, and will cross the Mississippi at sundry points-Memphis, Helena,
Mouth of White river, Point Chicot, Vicksburg, and probably others. It is probable
that some of the parties have already crossed the Mississippi, though no certain
information of their crossing has yet been received by the Superintendent. At all
events, but few weeks will elapse, before all the avenues, by land and by water,
leading through the Territory to the country ceded to the Choctaws, will be thronged
with these sons of the forest, on their journey to seek new homes to the far west.
We hope that their reception, by our citizens, as they pass though our Territory,
will be of that kind and humane character that will secure to us their respect and
friendship. They will hereafter be our neighbors-kindness and humanity toward them,
will make them our friends.
Arkansas Gazette, November 16, 1831
THE EMIGRATING INDIANS
We have received a letter from Col. Wm Rector, Special Agent for Superintending
the Removal and Subsistence of the Indians, dated at Vicksburg, Miss., 11th inst.,
from which we learn, that about 4000 Choctaw Indians were expected to reach that
place, by the 20th inst., about 3500 of which he supposed would ascend the Arkansas,
and the balance would emigrate by land, via Monroe, La., with their horses, cattle,
&c.
The gentleman who was the bearer of the letter above referred to, informed us,
that from 50 to 100 Indians had reached Vicksburg, before he left, and that about
2000 more were but a short distance behind them. It was understood, that the Agents
found considerable difficulty in getting the Indians started.
We also learn, that Capt. Brown, Superintendent, &c. has received information
from Memphis, that a party of about 500 Indians were expected to arrive at that
place from the23d to the 28th inst.
We shall endeavor to keep our readers advised of the movements of the Indians,
to enable those residing on or near the routes they may travel to make some calculations
as to the probable market they will meet with for the sale of their corn and other
surplus produce which they may have to dispose of.
Arkansas Gazette, November 23, 1831
THE INDIANS ARE COMING !!!
We stop the press to announce the arrival, last evening,
of Capt. Clark and Lieut. Ryan, of the U.S. Army, from Mouth of White river. They
bring us the interesting news, that upwards of 500 of Fulsom's party of the Emigrating
Choctaws arrived at the Post of Arkansas on Saturday last, on board the steam-boar
Reindeer, and they presume there are, by this time, over 5000 Choctaws at that place.
They may be looked for here in a few days.
Arkansas Gazette, November 28, 1831
Capt. Clark and Lieut.
Ryan arrived in this place last evening from the Mississippi--when they left the
Post 600 of the emigrating Indians had arrived at that place, and about 3000 more
were hourly expected.
Arkansas Advocate, November 30, 1831
The steam-boat Reindeer,
Capt. Miller, arrived here on Sunday last, from the Mississippi, with goods for
Fort Smith, and having in tow a large keel, with troops for Cantonment Gibson. In
consequence of the low state of the water, the keel was left six miles below this
place, and the Reindeer discharged her cargo, and on Monday returned to the Mouth
of White River.
We understand that Capt. Brown has chartered the Reindeer,
for the transportation of the Indians to this place, and that she will immediately
return with as many as she can bring up.
The Reindeer is a fine boat, of great power, and by
far the fastest boat that has ever been on the Arkansas--her draught of water is
rather too great, for our river.
Arkansas Advocate, December 7, 1831
The emigrating Indians-Since our last, expresses
have arrived here, to Capt. Brown, from Post of Arkansas, announcing the arrival
at that place of the steam-boat Walter Scott, from Vicksburg, with about 1200 emigrating
Choctaws, and of the steam-boat Brandywine, from Memphis, with upwards of 500 more,
increasing the number of Indians now at that place to about 2000 souls. We understand,
the steam-boat Reindeer has been chartered to bring them up the Arkansas as high
as this place, and that wagons will be prepared for conveying those who cannot travel
on foot from hence to their destination on Red river.
Arkansas Gazette, December 14, 1831
The Emigrating Indians-A
small party of 18 or 20 Choctaws, having in charge about 100 head of Indian horses,
arrived on the opposite side of the river on Sunday evening last, and left there
yesterday morning for Fort Smith.-They crossed the Mississippi at Memphis, and came
through by land from that place.
We also understand that a considerable party of the
Choctaws are now in the Big Prairie, on their way up from the Post of Arkansas,
and that they are expected to reach here to-day or to-morrow.
It gives us pleasure to learn, that these Indians have
suffered much less with the cold, during the late unusually inclement weather, than
could have been reasonably expected; and that they express much satisfaction with
the arrangements which have been made for their comfort, by the Agents appointed
to superintend their removal.
The steam-boat Reindeer was lying at Post of Arkansas,
a few days ago, waiting for a rise of water, to bring up a load of Emigrating Indians.
Arkansas Gazette, December 21, 1831
The Emigrating Indians-Between
five and six hundred Choctaw Indians, of Col. Folsom's party, under the charge of
Lieut. RYAN, arrived opposite this place on Wednesday last, from Post of Arkansas,
and the whole of the remainder of the week was consumed in transporting them and
their baggage, horses &c across the Arkansas, and removing them to a suitable spot
selected by Capt. Brown, for their encampment, about three miles south of this place,
where they will remain. A great number of teams have been employed for the purpose
of removing these Indians to the south, and we understand they will probably break
up their encampment to-morrow, and proceed on their journey to Red river.
We learn, by a gentleman from Washington, that 500 or
600 Emigrating Choctaws arrived at Ecore Fabre some ten days since, on their way
to the west, and he supposes about 2000 have arrived at the same point ere this,
for the same destination.
Arkansas Gazette, December 28, 1831
THE EMIGRATING INDIANS
Ninety large wagons, with teams of 4 and 6 horses or
oxen, engaged in the transportation of the Choctaw Emigrants, left this place and
vicinity, on Thursday last, 29th ult., in opposite directions and in about equal
numbers.
One portion of them, with about 550 emigrants, under
their Chief, Col. D. Folsom, have gone to the west, and are bound for the Red river
section of the New Choctaw Country.-This party is in charge of Lieut. Ryan, U. S.
Agent for Superintending the Removal of Indians, and is expected to reach the end
of its journey by the 25th inst. These people will settle within 30 miles of the
western boundary of this Territory, on the waters of Mountain and Glover's Forks.
The other portion of the teams have gone to the Post
of Arkansas, to convey another party of emigrants from thence to the Kiamechia,
via this place, and are expected here by the 20th instant.
About 1000 emigrants, via Red river and the Washita,
it is expected passed Washington, Hempstead county, on or about the 1st inst., on
their way to Kiamechia; and there are about 2000 now at the Post of Arkansas, waiting
the arrival of wagons to convey them to their destination. About 1,400 of the larger
number go to the Kiamechia-the residue will settle on the Arkansas, near Fort Smith.
We visited the emigrants while they lay at Camp Pope,
about 3 miles south of this place, a few days previous to their leaving for the
south, and were very agreeably surprized to remark the degree of cheerfulness and
contentment which seemed to prevail in every part of the Camp. They appeared to
be bountifully fed with bacon, fresh beef, and corn, and, with very few exceptions,
comfortably clad, and to exhibit generally quite as great a degree of comfort as
is usual to be found about an Indian camp.-Some few cases of sickness and a few
deaths had occurred, but the number of either were much smaller than might have
been reasonably expected, when the inclemency of the weather which they had encountered
on their journey from the Post of Arkansas, was taken into consideration. Those
who were ill, were restored by the attentions of a Physician provided by Capt. BROWN,
and by the rest which they were able to obtain while the party lay in camp, and
few, if any, cases of illness remained when they resumed their journey to the south.
We conversed with several of the emigrants, (some of
whom spoke English fluently), and were gratified to learn, that the party were perfectly
satisfied with the arrangements made by Capt. Brown, for their comfort, and could
not learn that a murmur or complaint against him, or any of the Agents of the Government
employed in their removal, was to be heard throughout the camp. The party left the
Saline, 30 miles south of this, on Saturday morning last, and were proceeding on
very finely when last heard from.
Arkansas Gazette, January 4, 1832
The party of emigrating
Indians who left here on the 29th ult. were at Clark C. H., about 40 miles this
side of Washington, on Saturday last.
Arkansas Gazette, January 11, 1832
THE EMIGRATING CHOCTAWS
The steam-boat Reindeer, Capt. Miller, arrived on Sunday
evening last, from Post of Arkansas, with a keel-boat of 170 tons burthen in tow,
both filled with Emigrating Choctaw Indians, under the direction of Col. W. Rector,
of whom upward of 1,100 were brought up. The Reindeer, having discharged her passengers
and freight, left, on Monday evening, for Mouth of White river, and if the state
of the river will admit of her getting up may be expected back with another party
of Emigrants, on Monday or Tuesday next.
The Indians were landed near half a mile below town,
from whence, by direction of Capt. Brown, the Superintendent, they have since been
removed, with their baggage, to Camp Pope, about 3 miles south of this place, where
they will remain for a few days, until the public wagons arrive from Post of Arkansas,
to convey them to their future homes on Red river.
We visited them two or three times while they were encamped
below the landing, and our town has been almost constantly thronged with them since
their arrival, and we can truly say, that we have never met with a parcel of Indians
who appeared to be more contented and happy than they do. They are well fed and
quite as comfortably clad as Indians generally are, and we heard of but few cases
of illness among them-indeed, fewer than might have been reasonably expected in
so large a body. They appear to be perfectly docile and harmless, exhibiting, as
far as we can learn, no disposition to encroach on the rights of our citizens; and
it gives us much satisfaction to state, that we have not heard of a single instance
of disturbance or collision between them and the whites, and we sincerely hope the
same terms of friendship and amity may long subsist between them and their white
neighbors.
Another party of between 300 and 400 Emigrants have
left the Post of Arkansas some days since, by land, and may be looked for here about
the last of this or the beginning of next week.
A company of about 400 Choctaws, of Capt. Jere. Folsom's
party, crossed the Mississippi at Point Chicot, about the last of Dec., and will
proceed by land to their country on Red river, via Core Fabre and Washington, under
the charge of Wm. McK. Ball, Esq., Special Agent for Subsisting and Removing Indians.
Arkansas Gazette, January 18, 1832
Maj. Francis Armstrong,
who has been recently appointed Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Choctaw
Nation West of the Mississippi, arrived at this place on Friday last, on his way
to the Western Choctaw Agency.
Arkansas Gazette, January 25, 1832
THE EMIGRATING INDIANS
A party of about 400 Emigrating Choctaws, in charge
of Col. Childress, arrived at this place, by land, from the Post of Arkansas, on
Sunday last, and have since been removed to Camp Pope, and rejoined Col. RECTOR'S
party which has been encamped there for several days, and now consists of about
1500 souls. This party are expected to take up their line of march for the south
in a day or two.
The Steam-boat Reindeer, Capt. Miller, arrived on Sunday
evening last, from Mouth of White river, with a keel-boat in tow, having performed
her trip from hence to the Mouth and back in a few hours over six days. She brought
up about 500 Emigrating Choctaws, in charge of Dr. John T. Fulton, Special Agent
for the removal of Indians, and left on Monday evening for Fort Smith, where the
Emigrants will be landed.
Arkansas Gazette, January 25, 1832
THE EMIGRATING CHOCTAWS
About 1300 of the Emigrating Choctaws, under the direction
of Col. Rector, Special Agent in the Removal and Subsistence of Indians, occupying
fifty large wagons, broke up their encampment in the vicinity of this place, on
Saturday last, and re-commenced their journey for the Red river section of their
new country, near the Kiamiche, where, it is understood, they intend settling.
For the want of a sufficient
number of wagons, about 200 Emigrants, encamped with the above, and belonging to
the same party, were obliged to remain behind until other means could be procured
for their transportation.-Wagons have since been obtained, and we are informed by
the Superintendent, Capt. Brown, that this party will leave in the course of to-day,
for the south, and will probably overtake the main body before they reach their
destination in their new country.-It is expected these people will arrive at their
new homes by the lst of March next, and we heartily wish them more peace and quietness
there, than they have enjoyed for several years past at those which they have left
east of the Mississippi.
The party of Emigrants, under the direction of Dr. Fulton,
Special Agent, &c. which left here on the Reindeer, on the 23d ult., were landed
about 80 or 90 miles above this, the low stage of the river rendering it impracticable
for the steam-boat to ascend farther, and will proceed up from thence in keel-boats
to their destination at Fort Smith, which they are expected to reach on or about
the 10th inst.
Arkansas Gazette, February 1, 1832
THE EMIGRATING CHOCTAWS
The party of Emigrating Choctaws, noticed in our last,
as being encamped in this vicinity, left for their new homes in the Red river country,
on Wednesday evening last, under the charge of Col. Samuel M. Rutherford, Special
Agent in the Removal and Subsistence of Indians. This party consists of about 200
souls, and is the last party that is expected to pass through this place during
the present season. The emigration will re-commence next autumn.
A gentleman who arrived here yesterday morning, from
the vicinity of Cantonment Towson, in the Red river section of the Choctaw country,
informs us, that the party of emigrants who left here on the 29th Dec. last, in
charge of Lieut. Ryan, had reached their destination, and appeared to be well pleased
with their country, so far as they had seen it. The party which left here, in charge
of Col. RECTOR, on the 28th ult., were passed on this side of the Caddo, waiting
for a recent rise in that stream to subside sufficiently for them to cross it. And
Col. Rutherford's party was passed in Hot Spring county, about 30 miles on this
side of Col. Rector's party, progressing very well.
Arkansas Gazette, February 8, 1832
The steam-boat Saratoga,
Capt. Kimball, arrived at this place, on Saturday morning last, from New-Orleans,
and departed, early on Sunday morning, on her return to same port. Her freight up
consisted principally of the stores of Col. Decatur, Suttler to that part of the
7th reg't, now at Cantonment Gibson, which were recently transferred from Cantonment
Jesup.
The steam-boat Elk, Capt. Krepps, passed down, on Monday
morning last, in about 26 hours from Fort Smith, and is expected back from Mouth
of White river about the last of this week. We understand she took on board, at
the Dardanelles, Dr. Fulton's party of Choctaw Emigrants, and landed them all safely
at Fort Smith.
The steam-boat Reindeer passed Fort Smith on Friday
last, with the detachment of U.S. troops who recently left this vicinity, for Can't.
Gibson. She may be looked for here about the last of this week, and will leave,
by Monday next, for New-Orleans.
Arkansas Gazette, February 22, 1832
The steam-boat Elk,
Capt. English, arrived on Thursday last, from Fort Smith, and left, same night,
for Mouth of White river-returned from thence about 1 o'clock P. M. yesterday, and
left, this morning bound up the river.-Her trip to the Mouth of White river and
back to this place, is the quickest ever performed between the two places.
Arkansas Gazette, March 14, 1832
Maj. Francis W. Armstrong,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Choctaw Nation West of the Mississippi,
arrived here on Monday, from the west. We understand he has been engaged, since
he left here in Jan. last, in exploring the Choctaw country and making himself acquainted
with the situation of the Indians whose interests he has been sent to guard and
protect, and that he will leave here for Washington City on the first boat descending
the Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, March 21, 1832
MORE UNFOUNDED RUMORS.
We learn, by gentlemen from Crawford county, that the
U.S. Surveyors, who have been for some time past employed in surveying the Public
Lands in Crawford and Washington counties, have recently received an order from
the Surveyor General, to suspend surveying any lands lying west of Brown's line,
which runs a north course from the Arkansas river to the southern boundary of the
State of Missouri.-The construction which the people have put upon this order is,
that the Government intend offering the county lying west of that line-being a strip
of land near 80 miles long by about 21 miles wide-to the Cherokee Indians east of
the Mississippi, on condition that they will remove to the west. As may well be
supposed, this order has produced considerable excitement among the people in the
western part of the Territory; and a report brought last week, by a Mr. Ryter, of
the Old Cherokee Nation, who passed up on the Elk, will not b e calculated to lessen
the apprehensions of our citizens. Mr. Ryter informed us, that he had recently seen
a letter from the President, addressed to some leading persons in the Old Cherokee
Nation, offering to give the Cherokees the counties of Washington and Crawford,
on condition that they would remove en masse west of the Mississippi. Our
informant appears to be a respectable man, and we have no reason to doubt his having
seen a letter from the President which he believes contains the offer
alluded to; but we cannot divest ourselves of the belief that there is some misapprehension
about the matter.
We have no doubt the President is anxious to remove
all the Indians to the west side of the Mississippi, and that he will use every
legal means in his power to effect that desirable object; but, as he does not possess
the power of ceding the lands in any "ORGANIZED TERRITORY" to the Indians,
and as the country alluded to above is within the organized limits of Arkansas,
we do not believe he has offered it to the Cherokees. Our authority for the assertion
that he does not possess this power, will be found in the 1st section
of the act, entitled "An act to provide for an exchange of lands with the Indians
residing in any of the States and Territories, and for their removal west of the
river Mississippi," approved 28th May, 1828, and is as follows:
"Be it enacted, &c., That it shall and may be lawful
for the President of the United States to cause so much of any territory belonging
to the United States, west of the river Mississippi, not included in any STATE OR
ORGANIZED TERRITORY, and to which the Indian title has been extinguished, as he
may judge necessary, to be divided into a suitable number of districts, for the
reception of such tribes or nations of Indians as may choose to exchange the lands
where they now reside, and remove there; and to cause each of said districts to
be so described by natural or artificial marks, as to be easily distinguished from
every other."
This ought to quiet the fears of our citizens, but if
more is wanted, it will be found in the assurance given by the President and Secretary
of War, to Mr. Sevier, in Dec. 1830. It will be recollected, that, in the autumn
of 1830, a report was circulated, that the Chickasaws had been offered some of our
western counties, in exchange for their lands east of the Mississippi. We expressed
our disbelief in the rumor, at the time, and cited the foregoing act as evidence
that there could be no foundation for it; and, shortly after Mr. Sevier arrived
at Washington, in the following winter, he made it his business to call on the President
and Secretary of War, for the express purpose of ascertaining from them what the
intentions of Government were in relation to the disposition of her lands in Arkansas.
The result of this interview will be found in the following extract of a letter
from him, dated 17th Dec. 1830, which was published in the Gazette of the 19th Jan.
1831:
"I called, yesterday, upon the President and Secretary
of War, and from them had the happiness to learn, that our predictions about the
purport of the late Indian treaties, were well founded. The Choctaws get no other
country west of the Mississippi than they previously owned, and the Chickasaws are
to select a country south of 36 degrees north latitude, and west of the Choctaws.
Upon intimating to the Secretary of War, that a rumor was afloat in Arkansas that
the Chickasaw Indians were authorized to select any country west of the Mississippi
river, without regard to our Territorial boundaries-the Secretary replied, that
he regretted any of our citizens should have given themselves any uneasiness upon
that subject-that the government had assured me that the limits of Arkansas should
not be disturbed, and that, even if they had been inclined to disturb or mutilate
our Territory, the act of Congress passed at the last session would have prevented
them from so doing. You may rest assured that, whatever arrangements the government,
in its wisdom, may take in regard to that class of our fellow-beings, no portion
of Arkansas will be granted to them. This you may consider as a point settled."
We do not know what stronger assurances our citizens
can wish, than those given by the President to Mr. Sevier, as detailed in the foregoing
letter, that it is not the intention of the Government to disturb "the limits of
Arkansas," by the cession of any of her lands to the Indians. It is natural that
the rumors to which we have alluded, should awaken some uneasiness in the minds
of those who reside in the western counties, but a reference to the law which we
have recited above and the foregoing extract from Mr. Sevier's letter, will, we
think, remove their doubts, and assure them of their safety. We have again and again
expressed our belief, that there is not even a remote probability of any portion
of our Territory ever being ceded to the Indians; and we again repeat, that we believe
the President feels too lively an interest in the growth and prosperity of the West,
and of the advancement of Arkansas to the rank which she must shortly assume as
one of the States of the Confederacy, to sanction for one moment an act of such
gross injustice and oppression.
Arkansas Gazette, March 21, 1832
The steam-boat Reindeer, Capt. Miller, arrived
on Thursday evening last, from New-Orleans, with a large keel-boat in tow, both
deeply laden, and 35 or 40 cabin passengers, about the same number of deck passengers,
and between 70 and 80 emigrating Cherokees. She left on Friday evening, bound for
Fort Smith, and perhaps for Cantonment Gibson, if the state of the river will admit
of her ascending that distance.
We regret to learn, that, shortly after leaving the
Mouth of White river, a respectable half-breed Cherokee woman, by the name of Vann,
aged about 60 years, unfortunately fell overboard from the keel-boat, in the night,
and was drowned. The steam-boat was stopped the moment the alarm was given, and
the yawl sent to succor the sufferer, but she was not seen after falling into the
water.
Arkansas Gazette, March 28, 1832
Removal of Indians. —The Secretary of War, in a Report
lately communicated by the President to Congress, states that according to the
best estimate that can be made, the number of Indians who have emigrated to the
territory appropriated to them, west of the state of Missouri, and the Arkansas
Territory, is 19 390—of whom 6,000 are Chocktaws, 3,500 Cherokees, 2,500 Creeks,
3,000 Delaware, 1,500 Shawnees, 800 Kickapoos, and the rest belonging to various
smaller tribes. The number of Indians south of Michigan, who have not emigrated,
he estimates to be 36,460, viz: Creek 20,000, Cherokees 11,000, Florida Indians
4,000, Miamis 1,000 and Wyandots, 450. —The territory which the Government
proposes to assign to these tribes, is estimated to contain 100 millions of
acres, of which about 50 millions have been already allotted to 8 tribes of
Indians.
[Boston Daily Adv.
Arkansas Advocate, May 9, 1832
Important to Graziers, &c.-The attention of graziers
and farmers of our Territory is called to an advertisement of Capt. Brown's, in
a subsequent column, giving notice that he will receive sealed proposals, until
the 1st August next, for 1,024,000 lbs. Fresh Beef, for the subsistence of the Choctaw
Indians west of Arkansas. There is no part of the United States where cattle are
so easily raised, or where Beef can be afforded so low, as in Arkansas, and we therefore
confidently hope that the contracts for furnishing this large supply will be taken
by our own citizens, who perhaps have as much need of the money as those of any
other section of the Union.
Arkansas Gazette, May 23, 1832
The Choctaws and Pawnees.-We learn by a gentleman
from the south, that a hunting party of Choctaws were recently attacked by a party
of Pawnees, whom they repulsed, after killing three of their assailants and taking
4 or 5 prisoners, and without losing any of their own party.
Arkansas Gazette, May 23, 1832
Another Indian Rumor put to rest.-On hearing the rumor,
which was some time since circulated in the western part of the Territory, that
the President had offered to give the counties of Crawford and Washington to the
Cherokees of Georgia, provided they would consent to remove en masse west of the
Mississippi, we not only expressed our disbelief of the story in our paper at the
time, and gave our reasons at some length for believing it to be a fabrication,
but immediately wrote to Mr. Sevier on the subject, and requested him to procure
from the proper Department at Washington, such a contradiction of it as would have
a tendency to prevent such rumors, not only from getting afloat, but from gaining
credence in future, among the people. This request he has complied with; and we
received from him, by last week's mail, the following letter, with that which follows
it addressed to him by the Secretary of War, which we feel much gratification in
laying before our readers. A more satisfactory answer could not be given to the
citizens of this Territory on the subject-and we hope the assurance which it gives-"THAT
THE PRESIDENT NEVER CONTEMPLATED THE CESSION OF ONE FOOT OF THE TERRITORY OF ARKANSAS
TO ANY TRIBE OF INDIANS, AND NEVER SUPPOSED FOR A MOMENT THAT HE HAD ANY AUTHORITY
TO MAKE SUCH A CESSION"-will tend to dispel all fears, if any still exist, in relation
to the late rumor, and put them on their guard against listening to any idle tales
that may be fabricated in future, with a view to exciting uneasiness in their minds.
As the Advocate first gave currency to the rumor, and
that, too, without any qualification whatever, and subsequently published a communication
calculated to increase the alarm already excited, we hope that print will do an
act of justice to Mr. Sevier, and at the same time gratify many of its readers,
by copying the following letters into its columns, and thereby partially repair
the injury which it has probably done, in checking emigration to that fertile and
interesting section of our Territory, which the authors of the story would have
ceded to the Indians.
House of Rep's., April 18th, 1832.
DEAR SIR-I received your letter on yesterday, respecting
the rumors prevailing in Arkansas, on the subject of giving the counties of Crawford
and Washington to the Cherokees of Georgia, and forthwith enclosed it to the Secretary
of War, accompanied by a pretty tart note from myself, asking for information upon
this subject. To-day I received the enclosed letter from the Secretary of War, in
reply to my note. You will perceive, that he puts to rest such rumors. I hope, the
next time such a story is put in circulation, that the author of it may be forthwith
gagged until he can learn to tell the truth.
Yours, &c. A. H. Sevier
P. S.-I will call to-morrow, and ascertain why the surveys
west of Brown's line have been suspended.
DEPARTMENT OF WAR,
April 16th, 1832.
SIR-I have just received your letter of yesterday, with
its enclosures, and, while I state to you in answer, that the President never contemplated
the cession of one foot of the Territory of Arkansas to any Tribe of Indians, and
never supposed for a moment that he had any authority to make such a cession, you
will allow me to express my surprise, that a rumor so extravagant in itself, could
have given any uneasiness to the intelligent citizens of that Territory, or could
have so far gained credence with you, as to call for the warm expressions you have
used-expressions not out of place, if there had been any grounds for the rumor,
but certainly not necessary till its truth was ascertained.
The surveys to which you allude, not being under the
control of this Department, I cannot tell why they have been stopped. The circumstances
can be doubtless satisfactorily explained at the Treasury Department. I return the
letters you forwarded to me.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient
servant, Lew. Cass.
Hon. A. H. Sevier, House of Rep's
Arkansas Gazette, May 23, 1832
Proposals for one million and twenty-four thousand pounds
of Beef.—It will be seen, by reference to our advertising column, that proposals
will be received by Capt. Jacob Brown, Superintendent for the Removal and
Subsistence of Indians, until the first day of August next, for furnishing and
delivering one million and twenty-four thousand pounds of Beef, in the Choctaw
Nation, west of this Territory.
Arkansas Advocate, May 23, 1832
Wanted—Horses, Oxen, and Teamsters.
The subscriber wishes to purchase, for the United States,
between the 10th and 20th of August next, TWENTY GOOD AND SUBSTANTIAL WAGON
HORSES, well broke to the harness, and perfectly sound. None less than fifteen
hands high, nor over eight years old, will be received.
Also, between the dates as above stated,
the subscriber will purchase twenty-five pair or yoke of OXEN; and of these,
none but such as are well broke to work, young, not over eight years old, and
well matched, need be offered, nor none of less weight than six hundred.
From and after the 15th of next month,
(August) from 10 to 15 TEAMSTERS, ox drivers, will find employment; good wages
will be given; none but those of discreet habits, as well as that they
understand driving and taking care of teams, need apply.
J. BROWN, Capt. U. S.A.
Sup’t R. and S. of Indians.
Little Rock, A.T. July 10, 1832
Arkansas Advocate, July 11, 1832
The Beef Contracts.-On
Wednesday last, being the day appointed by Capt. Brown, for opening the proposals,
contracts were closed for furnishing 1,024,000 lbs. Of fresh Beef, for the subsistence
of the Emigrating Indians. It gives us pleasure to state, that the contracts were
all taken by citizens of the Territory, and at an average of about $3 16 3/4 per
100 lbs., which is about 60 cents per 100 lbs., less than the average of
the last contracts, let out on the 22d Oct. last.
There was considerable competition among the bidders,
and, although many were disappointed in not getting contracts, we have heard of
no charge of unfairness being imputed to Capt. Brown. He acted in perfect good faith
with all, and gave the contracts to the lowest responsible bidders.
Arkansas Gazette, August 8, 1832
Another Beef Contract-By
reference to our advertising columns, our farmers and stock raisers will learn,
that Capt. Brown, Superintendent of the Removal and Subsistence of Indians, will
receive proposals, until the 22d Nov. next, for 1,050,000 lbs. of Beef, to be delivered
to the new Choctaw Country west of Arkansas, for the subsistence of the emigrating
Indians.
Arkansas Gazette, August 22, 1832
Proposals for Beef.
SEPARATE PROPOSALS, in writing, and sealed, will be received, until Thursday,
the 22d day of November next (3 o'clock P.M.,) for furnishing and delivering One
million and fifty thousands pounds of BEEF, in the new Choctaw Country west of the
Territory of Arkansas, and as follows:
450,000 pounds, to be delivered at the depot near Fort
Towson, or at such other places (not exceeding three) as shall be designated by
the Receiving Agent, and none of them to exceed the distance of 50 miles from the
Fort above named;
200,000 pounds, to be delivered at the depot at Horse
Prairie, 20 miles west from Fort Towson, or at such places (not exceeding two) as
shall be designated by the Receiving Agent, and neither of those to exceed the distance
of 40 miles from the Depot above named; and
400,000 pounds, to be delivered at the depot 25 miles
south-westwardly from Fort Smith, on the Arkansas, or at such other places (not
exceeding three) as shall be designated by the Receiving Agent, and none of these
to be more than 50 miles from the depot above named.
One-fourth of the several quantities of Beef, above
designated, must be ready for delivery, and at all the depots, on or before the
1st day of January, 1833; and the residue, on or before the 1st day of February
following.
The periods of delivery, the place or places where,
and the quantities to be delivered at each place, will be designated, as above referred,
and of which contractors will be duly notified (say ten days) prior to the period
of each delivery.
It is expected that the whole of the Beef will be called
for and received, on or before the 1st day of April, 1833.
The Beef offered, must be of good quality, and must
be delivered slaughtered, in quarters, or on the hoof, as shall be required; the
hides and rough tallow of the Beeves slaughtered, to be the property of contractors.
Good and sufficient sureties will be required for the
faithful fulfillment of contracts; and persons making bids not know to the subscriber,
are requested to make respectable references as to their capacities to furnish.
The privilege of rejecting bids deemed high, is reserved.
Bidders will please address their communications as
follows:--"Proposals to furnish Beef." "To the Principal disbursing Agent, Choctaw
Removal, Little Rock, A.T." And will, so far as it may be found convenient, attend
at this place, on the last day of receiving "Proposals," (22d Nov.) for the purpose
of closing contracts.
J. Brown, Capt. U.S.A., Sup't. R.&S. of Indians. Little
Rock, A.T. Aug. 13, 1832.
The Editors of the "Missouri Republican" and "St. Louis
Beacon," at St. Louis, Mo., and "Missouri Intelligencer," at Columbia, Mo., are
requested to publish the above advertisement until the 10th day of November next,
and send their bills (receipted), together with the first and last numbers of their
respective papers, containing the same, to the office of the Arkansas Gazette, for
payment, when the money will be immediately remitted to them by mail, or in any
other mode that they may designate.
Arkansas Gazette, September 12, 1832
PROPOSALS,
IN WRITING AND SEALED,
Will be received, until Thursday, the 20th day of September next, 1832, (noon),
for furnishing and delivering at the depot, 25 miles south-westwardly from Fort
Smith, on the Arkansas river, THREE THOUSAND BUSHELS OF GOOD MERCHANTABLE CORN:
The same to be delivered as follows:
300 bushels on or before the 1st day of October; 700
bushes on or before the 1st day of November; and the balance, 2000 bushels on or
before the 31st day of December, 1832.
Payment will be made for the Corn, when the whole is
delivered.
The Corn will be received at the rate of thirty-two
quarts to the bushel.
Bonds will be required for the faithful fulfillment
of the contract.
The privilege of rejecting bids deemed high, is reserved.
Bidders will please address their communications to
Lt. G. J. Rains, Agent in the Removal and Subsistence of Indians, at Fort Smith.
They will also note on their communications, "Proposals to furnish Corn."
J. Brown, Capt. U.S.A. Sup't R.&S. of Indians. Little
Rock, A.T. Aug. 10, 1832.
Arkansas Gazette, September 12, 1832
PROPOSALS for CORN
SEPARATE proposals, in writing, and sealed, will be received, until Monday, the
first day of October next, at 12 o'clock, (noon), for furnishing and delivering
Eighteen Thousand bushels of good sound merchantable CORN, to be delivered, in the
New Choctaw country west of the Mississippi, and as follows:
5000 bushels at the depot near Fort Towson, Red river;
7000 bushels at the depot at Horse Prairie, 20 miles west from Fort Towson; 4000
bushels at the depot near Mountain Fork of Little River, 40 miles north-east from
Fort Towson; and 2000 bushels at the depot near old Miller Court-house, 40 miles
south-east from Fort Towson.
One-fourth of the quantity of Corn at the several depots
above named, must be delivered on or before the 31st day of October; one-fourth
on or before the 30th day of November, and the balance on or before the 31st day
of December, 1832.
The Corn will be received at the rate of thirty-two
quarts to the bushel.
Bonds will be required, for the faithful fulfillment
of contracts.
The privilege of rejecting bids deemed high, is reserved.
Bidders will please address their communications to
Lieut. J.R. Stephenson, Agent in the Removal and Subsistence of Choctaws, at Fort
Towson. They will also not on their communications "Proposals to furnish Corn."
J. Brown, Capt. U.S.A. Sup't. R.&S. of Indians. Little
Rock, A.T. Aug. 4, 1832.
Arkansas Gazette, September 12, 1832
We find the following in the New-Orleans Emporium, of
3d ult:
"In the Arkansas Gazette of July first, is an advertisement
signed by J. Brown, Capt. U.S.A., calling for sealed proposals, to be sent in to
him to the first of August, for furnishing, in the Choctaw nation, west of the territory
of Arkansas-one million and twenty-four thousand pounds of beef.
Quere.-Why are notices relating to proposals of such
magnitude, only published in a single, obscure paper, in one of the remotest corners
of the union? Is it feared too great a competition will be produced amongst the
bidders?"
REMARKS.-It would be doing injustice to Capt. Brown
were we to permit the above insolent article (for, considering the circumstances
under which it was published, we can look upon it in no other light,) to pass unnoticed.-The
writer of it certainly could not have been ignorant of the fact, if he read the
advertisement, that, so far from its publication being confined to "a single obscure
paper in one of the remotest corners of the Union," a note was appended to it, ordering
its publication in two newspapers at St. Louis, Mo., and another at Columbia, in
the western part of the same State. Besides this, it was published in another "obscure
paper" in this same remote corner of the Union, ycleped the "Arkansas Advocate."-Thus
it will be seen, that, so far from its publication having been restricted to a "single
obscure paper," for the purpose of preventing "competition," it was published in
no less than five newspapers, circulating extensively in Arkansas and Missouri,
which gave ample time (nearly 70 days) for distant bidders to prepare their proposals.
The result proved that ample notice was given to produce great "competition," as
it drew together between 30 and 40 bidders, and the contracts were taken at the
very moderate average of only about $3 16 3/4 per 100 lbs. The next time the Emporium
thinks proper to cast unmerited censure on Capt. Brown, or any other faithful public
officer, we hope it will lay all the facts of the case before its readers, and thereby
save us the trouble of correcting its misrepresentations.
Arkansas Gazette, September 12, 1832
Proposals for Beef
We recommend to the earnest attention of
our readers, the advertisement which appears in our paper of this day,
concerning the supply of Beef and Rations for the Choctaw Indians, for the
ensuing year.—The present is a variation of the advertisement for Beef inserted
in our last page: the former was for Beef only—the present gives to the bidder
the choice of making a bid for Beef only, or making a bid for furnishing
Rations, consisting of Beef, Corn and Salt. To many persons it will afford a
good opportunity of making disposition of the surplus Corn of their
neighborhood, and in return bring them in a good price in cash. We have no
doubt the variation in the advertisement will be highly acceptable to many of
our enterprising farmers, as the field of speculation is enlarged before them.
Arkansas Advocate, September 19, 1832
Interesting to Contractors.-The
attention of contractors is called to Dr. Fulton's advertisement, in a subsequent,
column, for receiving proposals, until the 8th proximo, for furnishing complete
rations for the Choctaw Indians who will emigrate this fall, on the several routes
they are expected to travel from the Mississippi river to their country west of
Arkansas. They are expected to cross the Mississippi about the 1st Nov. next, and,
from the information received, it is supposed from six to ten thousand will be in
motion about that time, for their new homes.
Arkansas Gazette, September 26, 1832
Rations for Indians
PROPOSALS in writing, and sealed, will be received,
until Monday the 8th day of October next, (3 o'clock P.M.), for furnishing and delivering
to the Emigrating Choctaw Indians, COMPLETE RATIONS, together with FORAGE FOR TEAMS,
whilst traveling to their new country, upon the following routes west of the Mississippi,
to wit:
From Memphis, Tennessee, via Strong's to Mouth of Cache,
on White River, A.T. From Helena, A.T. to mouth of Cache, on White River, A.T. From
Mouth of Cache, via Mrs. Black's, Erwin's settlement, and Greathouse's, to Cadron
creek, A. T. From Cadron creek, by way of the Military Road, to Fort Smith, A. T.
From Post of Arkansas, A. T., via Mrs. Black's and Samson Gray's, to Little Rock,
A.T. From Little Rock, via Barkman's, to Washington, Hempstead C.H., A.T. From Washington
to the new Choctaw country near Fort Towson.
The number of Choctaws to be subsisted upon the foregoing
routes, together with the places upon the routes for depositing the supplies, and
also the time when deliveries will be required, will be known to the contractors,
as accurately as circumstances will permit, by the 20th of next month.
The Ration will consist of one and one-fourth pounds
of fresh Beef, and of three-fourths of a quart of Corn, to each person, and at the
rate of four quarts of salt for every hundred persons. The provisions comprising
the Ration must be of good quality, and delivered in good order.
The contractors to be at every expense attending the
delivery and distribution of the provisions, and the issues to be made under the
inspection and direction of an Agent having charge of the Indians.
The component parts of the Ration, as above stated,
may be varied in the issues, from time to time, so as to make deliveries of one
and one-fourth pounds of fresh or three-fourths of a pound of salted Pork, instead
of Beef, and one pound of Wheat Flour instead of corn.
Bonds will be required for the faithful fulfillment
of contracts; and persons making bids are requested to accompany them with satisfactory
references as to their capacity to furnish.
The privilege of rejecting bids deemed high is reserved.
Bidders will please address their communications as
follows: "Proposals to furnish Rations" "To the Principal Disbursing Agent, Indian
Removal Little Rock, A.T." and will attend at this place, on the 9th of October,
at ten o'clock A.M. for the purpose of closing the contract.
John T. Fulton, As't Ag't. Choctaw Removal. Little Rock,
A.T., Sept. 25, 1832
P. S. The information which has been received at this office, from east of the
Mississippi, computes the number of Emigrants which will enter the Territory, via
Memphis or Helena, to be twenty-five hundred; about three thousand, it is supposed,
will enter via the Post of Arkansas, and there are between three and four thousand,
in addition to the above number, which it is not as yet ascertained at which point
they will enter. It is more than probable that it will be by one or other of the
above specified routes. The calculation at present is, that the Indians will reach
the Mississippi by the 1st of November next.
Arkansas Gazette, September 26, 1832
Maj. F. W. Armstrong,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Choctaw Nation west of the Mississippi
and Special Agent of the Choctaw Removal, arrived at this place, on Tuesday evening
of last week; and after making the necessary arrangements for the subsistence and
removal of the Emigrating Choctaws, who are expected to cross the Mississippi about
the close of this, or in the early part of the ensuing month, left, on Thursday
evening last, for Memphis, for the purpose of expediting the removal of the Indians
under his charge. We understand the Indians will be embarked on board of steam-boats
at Memphis, Vicksburg, and other places on the Mississippi, and conveyed from thence
up White river, to a point known by the name of Rock Roe, a few miles below the
mouth of Cache, from which they will proceed by land to their destinations in the
new Choctaw country west of Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, October 10, 1832
More Provisions wanted.--The attention of Contractors is called to the
advertisement of Dr. Fulton, Acting Principal Disbursing Agent Choctaw Removal,
in a subsequent column, inviting proposals to be made to him, at this place,
until the 18th and 30th inst., for subsisting the Emigrating Indians, and the
Teams, &c. employed in their transportation, during their journey through the
Territory to their new homes.
These proposals, it will be seen, are invited, instead of those called
for on Monday last, by Dr. Fulton's advertisement of the 25th ult.--This change,
we understand became necessary, in consequence of an order from Maj. Armstrong,
Superintendent of the Removal of Indians, who has, by personal examination and
inquiry, satisfied himself that the route via the Mouth of White river and Rock
Roe, on the same river, is preferable, both as it regards economy and
expedition, to any of the routes which have been proposed for the removal of the
Indians from their country east of the Mississippi, to that west of that river.
The Snag Steam-boats, belonging to the Government, which have heretofore
been employed in removing the obstructions to navigation in the Ohio and
Mississippi rivers, and which, from their light draught, are said to be well
calculated for the service, are to be employed, we understand, in transporting
the Emigrating Indians from their several points of debarkation on the
Mississippi to Rock Roe, thereby dispensing, in a great measure, with the
expense of employing other steam-boats to perform that service.
Arkansas Gazette, October 10, 1832
Interesting to Wagoners.--We understand Agents have been sent out in
various directions, to employ Wagons and Teams of Horses and Oxen, to be engaged
in transporting the Emigrating Choctaw Indians from their point of debarkation,
at Rock Roe, on White river, to their destinations on the Arkansas and Red
rivers. The teams, we understand, are to consist of five horses or six oxen, and
be capable of hauling a weight of 3000 pounds over the ordinary roads of this
Territory. For such teams, the price of $ 1 per day is paid, together with
subsistence of the drivers and teams until their return. The number of teams
required, we understand, will be upward of one hundred--most of which are
already engaged.
Arkansas Gazette, October 10, 1832
MEMPHIS AND LITTLE ROCK ROAD, &c.
During the late session of Congress, it will be
recollected, an appropriation of $20,000 was made for the repair of this road,
from this place to the St. Francis river; under the superintendence of Gov.
POPE. Many, in different sections of the Territory, confidently expected, as
they certainly had a right to, that immediately upon the return of the Governor,
this work would be let out at public contract, thereby affording to all, a fair
opportunity to share in this large public expenditure. But what must be their
surprise, when they learn, that two days after his return to the Seat of
Government, (some even say; and we have no hesitation in believing it to be
true, that it was promised, by letter, before his return,) the Governor
PRIVATELY let out the whole of this large and important contract, to three of
his personal and political friends—Messrs. Rutherford, Gray and Rorer. We are
far from censuring those gentlemen for taking this profitable contract, even
privately—they have all of later, handled much of Uncle Sam’s money—they
doubtless know the use of it, and the pleasure its possession affords. But Gov.
POPE’s course is highly reprehensible—he has acted in bad faith, not only to the
Government, but to the people of this Territory. –Was the Governor fearful, if
he should give public notice, and proceed in the ordinary way to let out this
contract, that the competition would be too great for his friends, and that,
thereby, they would be deprived of the exquisite pleasure of pocketing this
20,000? We must think so. Nothing is more apparent, at this day, than the fact,
that “kissing goes by favor.” We will leave the people to judge the motives of
their good Governor, in entering into this private arrangement with his
particular friends.
Arkansas Advocate, October 29, 1832
Subsistence of Indians.-We are indebted to Capt. Brown, Principal
Disbursing Agent Choctaw Removal, for the following memoranda, in relation to the prices at which
the contracts were taken, on the receipt of proposals on the 18th and 30th ult.,
for supplying Rations, Corn and Fodder, for the subsistence of the Emigrating
Indians, and Forage for Teams, on the several routes leading through the
Territory, to the New Choctaw Country west of the Mississippi.
The contracts for supplying the stands north of the Arkansas, from Rock
Roe to Fort Smith, average as follows: For each Ration, $ 6 cents 9 mills. Corn,
89 cents per bushel. Fodder, 1 53 cents per 100 lbs.
The average for the stands south of the Arkansas, from Little Rock to
Fort Towson, was-For each Ration, $ 6 cents 6 mills. Corn 1 18 3/4 cents per
bushel. Fodder 2 40 cents per 100 lbs.
The average price at which the contracts were taken for supplying all
the stands, both north and south of the Arkansas, was (rejecting fractions) as
follows: For each Ration, $ 6 cents 6 mills. Corn, 1 07 cents per bushel.
Fodder, 2 00 cents per 100 lbs.
It is gratifying to learn, that these contracts have all been taken by
farmers and planters residing on the routes which they have contracted to
furnish; and at prices (though lower than any of the preceding ones,) which will
yield them a fair equivalent for their labor and the risk which they incur.
Arkansas Gazette, November 7, 1832
We are indebted, at a late hour yesterday, to the Secretary pro tem, of
the Board, for the following proceedings of the TOWN COUNCIL OF LITTLE ROCK,
held on Saturday last, for the purpose of taking the necessary precautionary
steps to guard our Town against the ravages of the Cholera, in case it should be
so unfortunate as to be visited by that fatal disease, and to provide the
necessary means for nursing and administering to the comforts of such strangers
as may be afflicted with it. It will be seen, that, among other precautionary
measures, the Board have rented the house of Mr. N. W. Maynor, situate near a
mile west of this Town, to be used as a CHOLERA HOSPITAL, to which all strangers
who may be attacked with the disease are to be sent, and appointed a BOARD OF
HEALTH, with power "to make such arrangements as they may deem proper for the
health and safety of the Town."
Arkansas Gazette, November 7, 1832
Cholera at the Mouth of White river!
Within the last 10 or 12 days, there has been two cases of
spasmodic Cholera at the Mouth of White river—both of which terminated fatally.
The first death by this disease, was a man direct from Fort Smith. He had not
been where any person had the Cholera, nor had there been a case of it at the
Mouth of the river previous to his arrival there. The other, was a gentleman who
came passenger in the steam-boat Volant, from New Orleans, and was awaiting a
passage up the Mississippi. Is it not fair to conclude, as neither of these
persons had been where this epidemic was prevailing, that the Cholera atmosphere
is not far from us? We may therefore, expect it to make its appearance among us
shortly.
Arkansas Advocate, November 7, 1832
Choctaw Emigrants.—We are informed, that about 22 hundred
Emigrating Choctaws arrived at Memphis, on or about the 28th ult., and would
embark on board some steam-boat, in a few days, for Rock Roe, on White river;
where the U.S. Teams will receive them, and transport them to their new homes
west of this territory.
Arkansas Advocate, November 7, 1832
Memphis
Oct. 24.—Choctaw Nation.—Major Armstrong, the agent for
removing the Choctaws, has arrived here from the nation, and informs us that
about 2,300 Choctaws are now on their way to this place, and will probably
arrive on the first of November. Arrangements are made for their immediate
transportation across the Mississippi, and their final settlement on the western
frontier. It is supposed that between 7 and 8,000 will remove this fall.
We also learn from Maj. Armstrong, who
passed by the Choctaw Council of Treaty, that up to the 18th ultimo, the day on
which he left, the Treaty had not been finally ratified, but the prospect was
still flattering.—Times.
Arkansas Advocate, November 7, 1832
Cholera.--On Wednesday evening last,
considerable excitement was occasioned in our town, by reports brought by
several teamsters and others from Frock Roe, that the Cholera had broken out and
was raging with great violence among a party of near 500 Indians who had just
arrived at that point, and that several deaths had occurred. The alarm, it
seems, was so great there, as to produce a considerable panic among the
teamsters who had charge of the U.S. wagons and teams, and among the owners and
drivers of the private wagons and teams, collected at that place, for the
purpose of transporting the Indians to their new homes. We are happy, however,
to have it in our power to say, that subsequent advices from that quarter, leave
no doubt that our first rumors greatly exaggerated the extent of the disease and
its ravages, and give at least good grounds for hope, that the epidemic which
has been raging there is not the Asiatic or Spasmodic Cholera. At all
events, our last advices state, that it had considerably abated in its violence;
and the attending physicians pronounce it perfectly under the control of
medicine, when attended to in the first stages of the disease.
Immediately on receiving intelligence from Rock Roe, that the Cholera
had broken out among the Indians, the Board of Health of this Town held a
meeting, and appointed Dr. B. W. Lee to proceed to that place, with a view of
examining into the character of the disease and making himself acquainted with
the best mode of treating it. He left on Thursday evening last, and, on Monday
evening, the Board received a partial report from him, accompanied by letters to
himself from Drs. Fulton and Reyburn, who had had the care of the cases which
had occurred there. They report that the disease has been violent and that
several deaths have occurred [about 16 up to Saturday night last, among about
1000 Indians] among the women and children-but they were all undecided whether
it is the Cholera Morbus, of a malignant grade, or the Spasmodic Cholera.-They,
however, we think, incline to the opinion that [it] is the Cholera Morbus, in
adults, and the Cholera Infantum, in children.
Dr. Lee, in his report to the Board, assures them, that, so far as he
has seen or learned, "be the disease Spasmodic Cholera or Cholera Morbus of a
malignant grade, that it is in most instances subject to the control of
medicine."
It is most probable, be the disease what it may, that it has been
produced by the crowded state of the Indians on board the steam-boats, and their
sudden change of diet from fresh meats and corn, to salt port and wheat, flour,
and that, too, probably eaten in a half-cooked state. As the disease was abating
at our last advices, we hope that a few days will put us in possession of
information that it has been entirely subdued.
There had been no case of the disease in any shape among the teamsters,
or the gentlemen superintending the removal of the Indians.-Indeed, we have a
letter from one of the teamsters, in which he says "We think there is no Cholera
here"-and we have conversed with a person who left there on Sunday morning last,
who says that all excitement had subsided, and that some of the teamsters, who
had left when the panic first broke out, were returning to their duty.
Arkansas Gazette, November 14, 1832
The Emigrating Indians.-Our latest information from Rock Roe, the
general rendezvous of the Emigrating Choctaws, is to Sunday morning last, at
which time about 1000 of the emigrants had reached that point-upwards of 800 of
whom came up on the steam-boats Reindeer and Harry Hill, and the remainder came
through by land from Memphis, via the Military Road. Near 2000 more, under Col.
Rector, landed on the west bank of the Mississippi, opposite Memphis, on the 4th
inst., and had left for Rock Roe-about 1200 on the U.S. steam-boat Archimedes,
and the remainder by land, with their horses, wagons, &c.-and it is probable
that all reached that point on Sunday last.
It is not known with any degree of certainty at what time these
emigrants may be looked for here; but, from the best information we can gain, we
think they may be expected about the close of this week.
Arkansas Gazette, November 14, 1832
By reference to the proceedings of the Board of Health, it will be seen, that
measures have been taken to prevent the Emigrating Indians from passing through
this town, in the event of there being any cases of Cholera among them; and that
Capt. BROWN took prompt steps to carry them into effect, by opening a road,
leading from the river to the main road to the South, by which the Indians will
be conducted-thereby relieving our citizens from the fear of the introduction of
any infectious or contagious disease, which their passing through the streets of
the town might naturally have excited.
Arkansas Gazette, November 14, 1832
The steam-boat Little Rock, Capt. Rudd, arrived here last evening, from
Fort Gibson, and will leave, this morning, on her passage down the river.
Among the passengers on board of her, is our distinguished countryman
Washington Irving, Esq., the accomplished author of the Sketch Book, &c. on his
return to New-York, from a tour among the Indian tribes west of Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, November 14, 1832
Emigrating Choctaws
A party of 450 Emigrating Choctaws, we are
informed, arrived at Rock Roe, on White river, on board the steamer Reindeer, on
the 6th inst., under the superintendence of Maj. ARMSTRONG, Choctaw Agent. From
Rock Roe, this party of Emigrants will proceed, in wagons, to the lands set
apart for them by the Government, west of this Territory. The Volant, we also
learn, was hourly expected at Rock Roe, with about as many more emigrants.
We much regret to learn, that the Asiatic
or Spasmodic Cholera has made its appearance among this party of Emigrants. On
the night of their arrival at Rock Roe, 15 or 20 were attacked—8 of which number
died in the course of the night and following day. Later accounts report 10
deaths in all, and 25 or 30 new cases.
Arkansas Advocate, November 14, 1832
Later from Rock Roe. –There has been several letters
received in town, within the last two or three days, from Rock Roe. Their
contents we have been unable fully to learn. We are told, however, that there
appears to be some difference of opinion as to the name of the disease which has
prevailed, since Monday or Tuesday week, with so much fatality among the
Emigrating Indians. One of the Agents, who is sometimes styled Doctor, calls it
the common Cholera Morbus! but Doct. Reyburn, whose judgement in such matters,
is entitled to equally as much, if not to more regard, unhesitatingly pronounces
it Asiatic or Spasmodic Cholera.
Since the arrival of the 450 Emigrants, on
the 6th inst. 25 or 30 have died. So says rumor.
Rumor also says, that 20 or 21
hundred Emigrating Choctaws arrived at Rock Roe, on Friday last, and that there
was considerable sickness among them.
Arkansas Advocate, November 14, 1832
The Little Rock Cholera Hospital!
The house procured by the Board of Health, as a Hospital, is the very worst
selection, in our judgement, that could have been made. In the first place, it
is not at all suitable—being a very disagreeable and uncomfortable house,
totally unfit even for well persons to inhabit; and in the second place, it is
in the heart of town, an objection, which all must admit to be a very serious
one.
Instead of introducing
disease among us; in our very families as it were—(the house selected as a
Hospital, is not more than fifty yards from two dwelling houses, occupied by
large families)—we had thought it was the duty of the Board of Health to adopt
measures to protect our citizens, as far as possible, from the influence
of all infectious and contagious diseases.
We hope the Board of Health will
consider this matter at their next meeting.
Arkansas Advocate, November 14, 1832
BOARD OF HEALTH
Little Rock, Nov. 7, 1832.
Pursuant to a resolution of the Town Council of Little Rock, adopted at
a meeting held on the 3d inst., appointing a Board of Health for said Town, the
following named persons, appointed Members of that Board, by the resolution
aforesaid, met, by agreement, at the room of Dr. B. W. Lee, viz: Doctors A.
Sprague, B. W. Lee, and R. A. Watkins, and Wm. W. Stevenson and Wm. E. Woodruff,
and organized the Board of Health, by the appointment of Wm. W. Stevenson to be
President, and Wm. E. Woodruff, to be Secretary, of said board.
The following preamble and resolution was adopted, viz:
Whereas, the house procured by the Town Council as a Hospital, is deemed
by this Board to be too remotely situated to be conveniently used for the
purpose for which it was intended: It is therefore
Resolved, That B. W. Lee and Wm. E. Woodruff be appointed a committee,
to make arrangements for, and superintend the erection of, a suitable temporary
building, to be used as a Hospital for the reception and accommodation of all
strangers and indigent persons, laboring under the Cholera, or any infectious or
contagio9us disease, demanding the care and attention of this Board.
On motion, it was
Resolved, That Dr's. Sprague, Lee, and Watkins be appointed a committee,
to draft a suitable Address to the citizens of this Town and vicinity,
admonishing them of the danger to which they would be exposed in the event of
the appearance of the Cholera among us, and advising them as to the necessary
steps to be taken to prevent the spreading of the disease, to avert its fatal
effects, and which, in the opinion of this board, will be most conducive to the
health and safety of the community.
Resolved, That Messrs. Stevenson and Watkins be appointed a committee,
to visit the premises of the several house-keepers in this Town, for the purpose
of ascertaining if there be any nuisances about them calculated to generate
disease and endanger the health of the citizens and to order the removal of the
same; and, in case of refusal, on the part of the persons about whose premises
such nuisances shall be found, it shall be the duty of the committee to report
such delinquents to the Town Council, to the end that they may be proceeded
against pursuant to an ordinance of said Council, providing for the removal of
nuisances in said Town.
The following preamble and resolution was adopted, viz.:
Whereas, in the event of the Cholera making its appearance among the
Emigrating Indians, who are expected to cross Arkansas, in this vicinity, on
their way to the west, their passing through the Town will be calculated, if not
to spread the disease, at least to produce alarm and excitement among its
citizens: Therefore, it is
Resolved, That Capt. J. Brown, Principal Disbursing Agent, Choctaw
Removal, be respectfully requested, in the event of there being any cases of
Cholera among said Emigrating Indians, to select some convenient route, other
than the streets of this Town, for their transportation from the place of their
landing on the south side of the Arkansas river to the main road leading to the
south; and that he be further requested, to prevent, as far as practicable,
straggling parties of said Emigrating Indians from visiting or passing through
this Town. On motion, it was
Resolved, That the President of this Board present a copy of the
foregoing preamble and resolution to Capt. Brown, and that he aid him in
selecting said route and in procuring the assistance of the citizens to aid in
opening the same. On motion, it was
Resolved, That the President, and, in the event of his absence, the
Secretary, of this Board, be authorized to call special meetings of the Board,
on the written application of any Member thereof, setting forth the necessity of
such special meeting.
On motion, the Board then adjourned.
Thursday, Nov. 8, 1832
The board met, pursuant in adjournment-present: Wm. W. Stevenson,
President, A. Sprague, B. W. Lee, R. A. Watkins, and Wm. E. Woodruff, Secretary,
On motion, it was
Resolved, That, in consequence of the receipt of authentic intelligence,
that the Cholera has broken out among the Emigrating Indians at Rock Roe, and it
being deemed important that this Board should be possessed of the most accurate
information in relation to the character of the disease, and the course of
treatment, and its results there adopted, Dr. B. W. Lee, of this Board, is
hereby appointed as a suitable person to proceed immediately to Rock Roe, and
from thence report to this Board, as soon and as often as practicable, such
information as he may there acquire in relation to that disease.
Resolved, That all the Physicians of this Town, be requested to report
to the President or Secretary of this Board, every case of Spasmodic Cholera, or
cases of suspicious character, which may come under their observation, as soon
as practicable.
Messrs. Lee and Woodruff, from the committee appointed to make
arrangements for the erection of a Cholera Hospital, reported, That, in lieu of
building a house for that purpose, they have deemed it more experiment to rent a
suitable building, and have accordingly rented the dwelling-house of Col.
Brumback, situate near the State-house, together with the out-buildings attached
thereto, at the rate of ten dollars per month, and to keep possession of the
same from month to month as long as it shall be required, and recommended its
use as a Hospital to this Board. Adopted.
On motion, the Board then adjourned.
Little Rock, Nov. 12, 1832
The Board of Health met pursuant to adjournment, present: William W.
Stevenson, President, Wm. W. Woodruff, Secretary, and Drs. Sprague and Watkins.
The President reported, that he had performed the duty imposed on him by
a resolution adopted at the meeting of the Board on the 8th inst., by handing a
copy of said resolution to Capt. J. Brown, Principal Disbursing Ag't , Choctaw
Removal, and that Capt. Brown promptly complied with the request of the Board,
by immediately employing laborers and opening a road on the eastern and southern
sides of this Town, by means of which the Emigrating Indians can travel from the
river to the main road leading to the south without passing through the Town and
endangering the health of its citizens.
Messrs. Sprague and Watkins, from the committee appointed on the
subject, reported the following Address, viz:
TO THE CITIZENS OF LITTLE ROCK:
In consequence of the general and deep interest caused by the near
approach of the Asiatic or Spasmodic Cholera, the Board of Health, appointed by
the Town Council of Little Rock, in the exercise of the duties of their office,
deem it incumbent on them to make public their views, and recommend that course
which appears most proper for the preservation of the community from the ravages
of that pestilence, which has visited, by its desolating course, most of our
Atlantic and many of our inland cities, and spread terror and dismay through the
whole western world.
Having been so far favored by exemption from its visitation, we are enabled
to profit by the experience of other, and, by adopting such precautionary
measures as by them have been found most efficient, greatly abate its fatality
and disarm it of its terrors.
Among the numerous preventives most urgently recommended, are
temperance, attention to cleanliness, diet, dress, and avoidance of excessive
fatigue and exposure to the damp chills of the evening air.
Excessive fatigue predisposes to the contraction of diseases,
particularly of this character, and should therefore, as far as possible, be
avoided. Care should be taken to guard from cold the body, particularly the
stomach, bowels and feet, which can be best done by wearing flannel next the
skin.
This epidemic, from its commencement, in 1817, to the present time, a
period of fifteen years, has marked the dissipated and dissolute as its peculiar
prey. He who takes the inebriating cup rarely escapes.
The use of ardent spirits in any quantity has been reprehended by every
medical man of reputation, who has written upon this subject.
The force of habit is so strong with wine, we presume, that they might
be unable or unwilling to relinquish its use. As a substitute, we would
recommend a tonic bitter, a watery infusion of vegetable tonics, as recommended
by Dr. Rush. The above preparation we would recommend only to the habitually
intemperate.
The diet recommended where this disease has been most prevalent,
consists in beef, mutton, venison, veal and poultry, good ham, eggs, Irish
potatoes, tea and coffee.
Fruits are prohibited as poisonous, and vegetables (potatoes and boiled
onions excepted) as little less deleterious.
Cleanliness, which as before been barely mentioned, may require some
explanation, as to its extent. Heads of families should attend to the divesting
their premises of every thing which may tend to vitiate the atmosphere; their
cellars made dry; out-houses purified; and, where practicable, every sleeping
room furnished with fire.
We would repeat the necessity for keeping the feet dry and warm, and for
avoiding exposure to rain and night air.
We would also recommend that night meetings and assemblies of every
kind, for the present, be dispensed with.
No nostrum or medicine, while in health, should be taken as
preventatives, as they only tend to irritate the bowels and predispose to this
disease; but if a lax or disordered state of the bowels, the usual precursors of
Spasmodic Cholera, appear, medical aid should immediately be obtained, as at
this time, and at this time only, can remedies be administered with almost
certain success.
As this epidemic is confidently affirmed not to be contagious in its
character, by every scientific man whose opportunities enable him to judge with
accuracy, it is hoped that no one suffering an attack will be neglected through
the timidity of those whose duty it may be to furnish every aid and comfort; but
that the bonds of affection and friendship be drawn still more close, and every
assistance and consolation afforded the sufferer, be he citizen or stranger.
Much may be done, and safely done, to mitigate the unavoidable suffering
attendant on an attack of this disease.
Let every one faithfully and fearlessly perform his duties, relying with
confidence on the approbation and protection of a superintending Providence.
Which address was read and unanimously adopted by the Board.
The Board then adjourned to Thursday evening next. W. W. Stevenson,
Pres't. Wm. E. Woodruff, Sec'y
Arkansas Gazette, November 14, 1832
THE EMIGRATING INDIANS
Two parties of the Emigrating Choctaws, consisting of about 1400 souls,
commenced arriving opposite this place, from Rock Roe, on Sunday last, and have
now mostly came up. One of them is of the band or party of Col. David Fulsome,
about 800 in number, in charge of Lieut. Jos. A. Phillips, U.S.A.; the other is
that of Col. Greenwood Lefleur, about 600 in number, in charge of Col. Cross.
They commenced crossing the Arkansas yesterday, and proceeding to an encampment
about four or five miles south of this place, where they will remain a day or
two for the stragglers, who have been delayed by sickness and other causes, to
come up, and then proceed south to their new country in the neighborhood of the
Kiamiche.
Two other parties, of Mushalatubba's band, one of near 1100, in charge
of Col. Rector, and another of about 900, in charge of Capt. PAGE, U.S.A., were
expected to leave Rock Roe, on Monday or Tuesday, for Fort Smith, and are
probably now on their journey.
Another party of upward of 2000 Choctaws, we understand, are expected at
Rock Roe, about this time, in charge of Maj. F. W. Armstrong, Superintendent
Removal of Choctaws west of the Mississippi. His brother, Wm. Armstrong, Esq.
Superintendent of Choctaws east of the Mississippi, has been at Rock Roe, during
the last 12 or 15 days, organizing the parties and superintending the departure
of the Indians from that point.
Arkansas Gazette, November 21, 1832
THE SPASMODIC CHOLERA
There is now, we believe, no longer any doubt at the existence of the
Spasmodic Cholera among the Emigrating Choctaw Indians now proceeding through
this Territory to their country west of Arkansas. It has made its appearance, we
believe, in all the parties that we have heard from, and has been attended with
great fatality to the Indians-but has, in no instance, we understand, attacked
any of the white persons engaged in their removal. We have not been able to
obtain any correct information as to the number that have fallen victims to it,
but think we speak within bounds in putting it down at 50 or 60. Dr. Reyburn,
who has attended in a great number of cases, thinks about one dies of every four
or five that are attacked.-Our readers are referred to the report of Dr. Lee, to
the Board of Health of this Town, for some interesting and valuable information
in relation to this disease, which he has collected during his intercourse with
the Indians since their arrival at Rock Roe.
It gives us pleasure to learn, that no new case of Cholera has appeared
among the Indians now in this vicinity, since Sunday night, which authorizes us
to indulge a hope that it is about to cease its ravages. Some few cases of ague
and fever and intermittent fever have occurred among them within the last few
days, which the medical gentlemen attending them consider a strong indication of
the abatement of the Cholera, and of returning health.
We have not heard of the slightest indication of the disease in this
town, and so far as we can learn, the approach of the Indians creates no alarm
among our citizens.
Arkansas Gazette, November 21, 1832
FROM THE MISSISSIPPI
Extract of a letter to the Editor, from a gentleman at Greenock, Crittenden
Co., dated 9th instant.
"Since my letter by the last mail, James Livingston, Esq., Frederick
Shoults, and William Titas, have died of Cholera-all on the point opposite
Memphis-It is thought that they took it from the Emigrating Indians, who are
dying rapidly of Cholera. Every account I get from the river, is distressing.
The steam-boats appear to be a reservoir for the disease."
Arkansas Gazette, November 21, 1832
Memphis, Nov. 6
Cholera.-Several cases have been reported at the wood yards on the
Mississippi, 20 or 30 miles below Memphis. As yet, we have no local case in
town, nor have any cases been left from steam-boats within the last week. Our
citizens continue to enjoy uninterrupted health.
About two thousand four hundred of the Choctaw Indians, under the
direction of Major Armstrong, arrived at Fort Pickering, two miles below this
place, a few days ago, on their way to their new homes, west of Arkansas
Territory. The Indians were all in fine health, and seemed delighted at the idea
of shortly reaching their allotted country. Their favorite chief, Fulsome, was
of the company. We regret, that the late heavy rains have so inundated the
swamp, as to render their passage thro' to the St. Francis river extremely
unpleasant.
Arkansas Gazette, November 21, 1832
Emigrating Indians
A party of six hundred Emigrating Choctaws, (Col. Greenwood Laflore’s party,)
under the direction of Capt. Cross, Special Agent, arrived at Rorer’s ferry, on
the north bank of the Arkansas, on Sunday last. They crossed the river
yesterday, and camped five miles south of this place last night. This
party is accompanied by Dr. Nutt, of Vicksburg, in the capacity of Surgeon.
We understand he will leave the party here, and return to Vicksburg.
Another party of eight hundred, (Col. David Folsom’s party,) under the
superintendence of Lieut. Phillips, U.S.A. arrived on the opposite bank of the
river, on Monday and Tuesday last. This party, we are informed, will cross
the river today, and camp five or six miles south of this to night. Dr.
Reyburn of this town is Surgeon to this detachment.
The party in charge of Col. Rector, consisting of about 19 hundred, left Rock
Roe on Friday last, for Fort Smith. They will pass by the way of the
cross-roads, 25 miles north of this. This party lay at Mrs. Black’s on
Monday night.
Arkansas Advocate, November 21, 1832
Cholera among the Emigrating Indians. –We are happy to
learn, that the Cholera has considerably abated, within the last 8 or 10 days,
among the Emigrating Indians. But few cases now occur. The number of deaths, we
have been unable to learn—but, from all the information we can gather, they do
not exceed one hundred. Many have fallen victims to their own obstinacy—refusing
to take medicine, or to avail themselves of that aid, which the medical
gentlemen who accompany them, were employed to render. They cannot be prevailed
upon to attend to the first appearance of the disease, or what is termed the
premonitory symptoms. Very few cases, we are informed, have terminated fatally,
where medicine was administered in the incipient stage of the disease. Ever
thing taken into consideration—several hundred huddled together for days in a
small steam-boat, their exposure to the inclemency of the weather &c—we think
this epidemic has been much less fatal than could have been expected.
Arkansas Advocate, November 21, 1832
Notice to bidders for Indian Rations.
Persons making bids for supplying Rations, or Beef, under
the notice for proposals, dated the 18th of August last, [see “proposals for
Beef” 4th column, 4th page], are informed that the Rations; or Beef, as therein
intimated, will not be required earlier than February next, 1833; hence by
prolonging the period of first delivery, the period when the whole of the
Rations, or Beef, will be called for, is necessarily prolonged, say to the first
day of July, 1833.
Thirty days notice will be given to
contractors, prior to the first delivery of Rations, or Beef, at the depots
contracted for.
J. Brown, Capt. U.S.A.,
Prin. Dis. Agt. Choctaw Removal.
Wednesday morning, Nov. 21, 1832.
Arkansas Advocate, November 21, 1832
BOARD OF HEALTH
Little Rock, Monday, Nov. 19, 1832
The Board of Health met pursuant to adjournment-present: Wm. W.
Stevenson, President, A. Sprague; B. W. Lee, and Wm. E. Woodruff, Secretary.
Dr. Lee, who had been delegated by this Board, to visit Rock Roe, for
the purpose of making observations on the character of the disease raging among
the Emigrating Indians at that place, presented the following report; which was
read, and ordered to be spread on the Minutes, viz:
To the Board of Health of the Town of Little Rock
GENTLEMEN-The undersigned begs leave to report, that, since his last
report, he has had sufficient opportunity to examine into the nature of the
disease now raging among the Emigrating Choctaws at Rock Roe, and offers for the
consideration of the Board all his individual observation, as well as that of
Drs. Reyburn and Fulton, on the treatment of the epidemic; and, although it will
not be in his power to offer any thing new in the treatment of the disease, yet
it gives him great pleasure to state that he has seen the practice of others put
in successful operation.
The Spasmodic Cholera made its first appearance amongst the Indians, on board
the steamer Reindeer, on the 3d inst.; cases occurred up to the 5th, when the
boat landed at the mouth of Rock Roe. There were only one or two sick on the
5th; on the 8th, the sic report was swelled to 18 and 5 deaths; on the 7th, 24
new cases 5 deaths; on the 8th, 27 new cases 4 deaths; on the 9th, not a single
new case; on the 10th, 19 new cases 3 deaths; on the 11th, 12 cases and 2
deaths; on the 12th 17 cases 2 deaths; on the 13th, 15 cases and 1 death; on the
14th, 5 deaths; on the 15th, 9 new cases, deaths not known.
The Board will discover that there was an astonishing decline in the
number of deaths, on the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th, and the
undersigned begs leave to account for it in this manner:--From the settled state
of the weather, the Indians became more comfortable in their camps; the panic
became excessive and the least premonition of cholera, put the attendance of the
medical gentlemen into requisition. Thus, by the timely administration of
medicine, many lives were saved. We also see in the above report of cases, the
cholera has obeyed the same law with the Indians, that it invariably observes
with the whites. For two or three days it was rife and malignant. On the 9th, no
deaths, no cases. On the 15th, the detachment of Capt. Irwin had but 2 cases,
one collapsed, the other premonitory, neither fatal. Capt. Cross's detachment of
600 landed on the 12th from the steamer Harry Hill, with the cholera on board.
The number of cases on the passage or since I have been unable to learn, but am
informed that the disease prevailed principally with the women and children. The
note book of Drs. Reyburn and Fulton shows the same result. This is accounted
for, by the fact that a large majority of the men were sent through by land, and
the women and children shipped on steam-boats. But admitting that there were a
majority of cases among this class of Indians, yet I feel that nothing
flattering can be adduced from this; for, suppose the Mississippi river to be
the cholera region, which it certainly is, those women and children were as much
or more exposed than the men. In addition to that, they indulged in the various
excitants of cholera, on the Mississippi, which the up-country so amply affords,
such as fruits, vegetables, &c., and perhaps the Mississippi water may have some
tendency to affect the bowels. But I believe that I may hazard this assertion,
that if the cases were more numerous among the women, yet there was not the same
fatality-at least an average of two and a half or three in favor of the women.
The undersigned is aware, that he could swell this report to an unreasonable
length, were he to permit himself, but he deems it more important to proceed to
the consideration of the disease in question. That the Spasmodic Cholera is at
Rock Roe, and will traverse this Territory, no man can doubt; and that it is one
of the most appalling scourges that has ever afflicted society, the experience
of the last year will prove; but it behooves us as men and christians to meet it
firmly. It will not admit of procrastination. An hour lost in cholera, is worth
a world of wealth. Send for your medical attendant in time. Do not tamper with
yourself, and the disease is manageable. The undersigned feels bold to say to
the Board, that he has seen no case, where there was premonition, (he means
those cases that have terminated fatally.) Dr. Fulton has seen none, and I think
Dr. Reyburn has reported none. I would not be understood to say, that
premonitions never occur. We have the authority of too many distinguished
medical men, and whose opinions are entitled to too much respect, to doubt the
truth, that cholera is frequently preceded by nausea, diarrhoea, &c., but of the
cases under my observation, terminating fatally, no such symptoms preceded the
disease. The account of the case is generally this: he was well last night, ate
heartily, and was taken about mid-night or after. He will give the Board a case
which he attended closely. The subject was a sprightly young man, about 24 years
of age, temperate and cleanly in his habits. On the evening of the 10th, he was
well and lively, (for he spent some time with Dr. R. on the banks of White
river.) He ate his supper as usual, and was taken after mid-night. I saw him on
Sunday morning, and the expression of that poor fellow's face can never be
erased from my mind; and the attempt that I shall make at the description of the
symptoms may be considered as adapted to the generality of the cases. Drs.
Reyburn, Fulton and myself, were called about 3 o'clock, to the patient in
question. He was lying on his blanket, with his eyes looking wild and unnatural,
the whites of them injected with a dark gromous blood; they were as much sunken
as usually happens on the 19th or 21st day of fever, surrounded with a blue or
lead colored circle; his mouth had the same bluish tinge; his arms were as cold
as marble; the skin shrivelled; the fingers showing a recession of blood, for
they were shrunken, nails deep blue, wrist pulseless, one hand and arm distorted
with spasm, great action of the diaphragm, and the bowels contracted and sunken
until they assumed the appearance of being conjoined to the spine; legs cold and
cramped, slight nausea, but no dysentery; entire suppression of urine (a symptom
that has occurred in every case that I have seen); the dejections that had taken
place were compared to hominy water; the voice low and whispering, but he would
occasionally shriek as loud and fiercely as a maniac; the tongue perfectly white
and cold; the thirst intense and ungovernable. The medical gentlemen and myself
considered the case so hopeless that we thought it unadvisable to attempt any
thing; but his friends appeared anxious that we should endeavor to relieve him.
Dr. Reyburn attempted to cup the epigastrum, but the
recession of blood had been so perfect that none followed the scarification.-The
undersigned made an effort, but was unsuccessful. We endeavored to vomit him by
salt and water, but failed. We bathed his legs and arms with hot brandy, and gave
him 3 drops of croton tiglium oil, blistered the stomach, and directed his bowels
and legs rubbed with flannel and brandy. We called in the evening, and gave calomel
and opium, with no expectation of relieving him. There was no change for the better,
and he died about 3 o'clock on the morning of the 12th.
The undersigned would remark, that a large majority of the deaths occurred with
those who, from ignorance or obstanacy, refused medical aid; and he is satisfied
that the treatment of the disease adopted at Rock Roe, which, with little variation,
is that recommended by Dr. Chapman, is the correct practice.
In the insipient stage, the abstraction of blood from the arm, cups to the epigastrum,
calomel combined with opium in doses corresponding with the violence of the attack
and followed by castor oil, was all that was necessary; we had rarely to resort
to other remedies.
In the collapsed stage, the salt emetic was the first remedy; and if reaction
was produced, we resorted to the lancet or cups, or to both. Calomel and opium with
blisters and stimulating embrocations were the principal remedies used, and were
beyond all expectation successful, as the report of the above cases will show.
The undersigned considers it unnecessary to touch on
the theories of the disease, which have been filling the journals for the last 18
months. He was sent by the Board of Health to observe the disease as it really was,
and not to confound with his speculations any correct view that may have been taken
of the disease. Dr. Chapman, in the opinion of the undersigned, comprehended more,
in his letter on Cholera, than any many who has ever written. He deems it proper
to remark, in conclusion, that Cholera is remediable, when taken in time; and that
calomel, opium and blood letting, is our sheet anchor.
He takes this public manner of returning his thanks
to Maj. Langham, the Assistant Special Agent, and Doctors Reyburn and Fulton, for
their gentlemanly deportment in offering the Board of Health of Little Rock, through
their Agent, every facility for the prosecution of his mission. Respectfully, BUSHROD
W. LEE.
Little Rock, Nov. 16, 1832.
The Board then adjourned.
WM. W. STEVENSON, Pres't.
WM. E. WOODRUFF, Sec'y.
Arkansas Gazette, November 21, 1832
The Emigrating Indians.-Maj.
F. W. Armstrong, Superintendent Choctaw Removal west of the Mississippi, arrived
at Rock Roe, a few days since, from Vicksburg, with the steam-boats Reindeer, Volant,
Thomas Yeatman and Archimedes, on board of which were about 1800 Emigrating Choctaw
Indians; and last evening, reached the opposite side of the river from this place,
with them, together with a considerable number of stragglers from other parties
whom he has picked up on the road, increasing the party now with him to near 2000.
They commenced crossing last evening, and will probably not all get over until to-morrow.
These Indians are all bound for that portion of the new Choctaw country situate
on Red river, in the vicinity of the Kiamiche. It gives us pleasure to learn, that
they are perfectly healthy.
All the Indians have left Rock Roe, and this, we understand,
is the last party that will emigrate on this route during the present season.
Arkansas Gazette, November 28, 1832
The Cholera.-It gives us pleasure to assure our country
friends, that our town continues to be perfectly healthy, and that no case of Cholera
has made its appearance in it. Some alarm was excited previous to the arrival of
the Emigrating Indians; but since a large portion of them have passed through, without
spreading the disease, it has entirely subdued, and many now doubt whether it has
ever prevailed among them to any thing like the extent that was reported.
A case of Cholera was reported across the river in this
vicinity a few days ago, but the circumstances of it were such as to warrant at
least a doubt of its being the genuine disease--or that it was not such a one as
almost any body could produce by a continued state of intemperance and imprudence.
The individual attacked, was at Rock Roe about two weeks since, and has been at
least partially intoxicated a considerable portion of the time since his return.
Feeling unwell one evening in the latter part of last week, he took a large dose
of calomel, and shortly afterwards a goodly portion of whiskey on top of it. These
not producing the desired effect, a large dose of castor oil was taken. In the course
of the following night, he was violently attacked with symptoms strongly resembling
those of Cholera. A physician was procured as soon as possible, who found the patient
in a very critical situation; but, by the timely application of active medicines,
he was relieved, and his since, we believe entirely recovered. This is the only
case we have heard of in our vicinity.
Arkansas Gazette, November 28, 1832
Contracts for subsistence
of Indians. –We are informed, that contracts for the delivery of Rations, at the
several depots, as below, were closed on Thursday last, 22d inst. at the
following prices per ration, viz:
For the ration at the depot near Fort Towson and Horse Prairie, eight cents;
For the ration at the depot near Fort Smith, five cents nine mills;
For the ration at the depot at the Seneca Agency, for the Senecas, six and
three-quarter cents. Nearly a million of rations
were put under contract, and at an average of seven cents one mill per ration.
The successful competitors,
we are gratified to learn, are all farmers and presidents of the Territory.
Arkansas Advocate,
November 28, 1832
Emigrating Choctaws.
A letter to the Editor, from a friend at the Post of
Arkansas, under date of Nov. 23, says:--
“It was stated here on Monday, that the
steamer Reindeer, and the other boats in the employ of the government, passed
the Mouth of White river, on Sunday, with the remainder of the Emigrating
Indians.”
A letter to the Editor, from below, says:
“The Reindeer will pass up to the Rock in a few days.”
Arkansas Advocate, November 28, 1832
Vicksburg (Miss), November 8
The detachment of Choctaw Indians, the
arrival of which we mentioned some time since, departed last week for their
country west of the Mississippi. Another amounting totwo thousand has arrived
this week, and will depart in a few days.
Arkansas Advocate, November 28, 1832
THE EMIGRATING CHOCTAWS,
Whose arrival at this vicinity, under the superintendence
of Maj. F. W. Armstrong, we noticed in our last paper, after being organized into
three detachments of about 600 each, for the purpose of facilitating their removal,
left here, last week, for their country on Red river, in the following order:
A detachment of Koonches, under the Principal Chief
Ne-ti-ca-che, left on Wednesday, in charge of Lieut. Montgomery, U.S.A.;
Another, of Six Town Indians, in charge of Lieut. Van
Horne, U.S.A., left on Thursday; and
Another, of the Chickasaw-haas, Col. Nail, leader, left on Friday, in charge
of Lieut. Simonton, U.S.A.
All the foregoing Indians are from Ne-ti-ca-che's district, in the south-western
part of the Old Cherokee [sic] Nation east of the Mississippi. There had been considerable
sickness among them, previous to reaching this place, and 19 had died since leaving
Rock Roe; but the survivors of those who had been ill had mostly become convalescent,
and the general health of the several parties very much improved, previous to leaving
here for the south.
Capt. Page, U.S.A., with about 1200 Indians and 80 wagons, of Col. Rector's party,
who came through the Mississippi swamp from Memphis, and who design locating in
the vicinity of the Arkansas, are probably now within about 75 miles of Fort Smith.
We understand it is expected that all the Choctaws who design emigrating this
year, will be in their new country by Christmas.
Maj. Armstrong left here on Sunday last, for Fort Smith, for the purpose of distributing
the annuity goods which the Choctaws are entitled to under the treaty.
Arkansas Gazette, December 5, 1832
Emigrating Choctaws
Maj. Armstrong, Choctaw Agent, arrived on the north bank
of the Arkansas on Tuesday last, 27th ult., with a party of 18 hundred
Emigrating Choctaws. This party has since crossed the Arkansas, and taken up
the line of march for the new Choctaw country. This is the last party, we are
told, that will emigrate the present season.
Arkansas Advocate, December 5, 1832
A party of upwards
of 500 Emigrating Choctaw Indians, in charge of Col. Rector, passed up through the
Big Prairie, a day or two ago, on their way to Fort Smith.
Arkansas Gazette, January 9, 1833
Lieuts. Van Horne, Simonton, and Montgomery, U.S.A., and Maj. Campbell and Mr.
Somerville, who passed through this place, some weeks since, in charge of companies
of Emigrating Choctaw Indians, having discharged the duties with which they were
entrusted, reached this place, last week, on their return to their respective posts
and residences.
Arkansas Gazette, January 9, 1833
Indian Rations.--We
inadvertently omitted last week, to call the attention of our farmers, &c. to the
advertisement of Capt. Brown, giving notice that he will receive proposals, until
the 16th May next, for the delivery of 738,000 Indian rations at the several depots
in the Choctaw country west of Arkansas.--The advertisement will be found on our
fourth page to-day.
Arkansas Gazette, March 13, 1833
Indian Rations.-The
proposals for supplying Indian Rations at all the depots in the New Choctaw country,
agreeable to Capt. Brown's advertisement of the 1st March last, were opened on Thursday
last, and the contracts taken at rates quite satisfactory to all concerned. The
competition was large, and from distant sections of the Territory, and some bids
were received from gentlemen from the south-western quarter of the State of Missouri.
The offers were independent, and the furnishing is in good substantial hands. We
understand the average price of the rations under these contracts, are a shade higher
than those let in November last, which was at 7 cents. The aggregate of the late
contracts amounts to about $60,000, and the whole have been taken by citizens of
the Territory.
Arkansas Gazette, May 22, 1833
Indian Rations.--The
attention of our farmers and citizens is called to Capt. Brown's advertisement,
in this day's paper, giving notice that he will receive proposals, until the 5th
September next, for 441,640 Indian Rations, to be delivered at the several issuing
depots in the new Choctaw country west of Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, July 3, 1833
Provisions for Indians.--We
understand that private contracts have been made by Col. W. Rector, Assistant Agent
for Removal of Indians, for furnishing provisions for the Emigrating Choctaws this
season, to commence on the 4th of next month. Notice would have been given for public
contracts, but for the detention or miscarriage of the requisition from Maj. Armstrong,
the Superintendent of Removal of Indians West of the Mississippi. We are also informed,
that the course which Col. Rector has been under the necessity of adopting, is authorized
by a letter received from him, by last mail, from the Commissary General of Subsistence,
in which it is recommended.
We also understand, that a considerable portion of the
Wagons and Teams sold at this place, last month, by Capt. Brown, will shortly be
offered employment in the transportation of the Emigrating Choctaws, to commence
at Rock Roe on the 1st of November.
Arkansas Gazette, October 16, 1833
Emigrating Indians.-By
a gentleman from Memphis, we learn, that about 1500 emigrating Choctaws crossed
the Mississippi, at that place, on Thursday last, on their journey to the west.
A Deputation of Chickasaws, with their Agent, Col. Reynolds,
crossed the Mississippi, on the same day, on their way to select a country west
of Arkansas, for the future residence of that nation.
Arkansas Gazette, November 6, 1833
The Columbus (Miss.) paper, of 15th ult. says that some
5000 or 6000 Choctaw Indians, residing in the Southern District of the old Nation,
refuse to remove to the west, in accordance with the treaty.
Arkansas Gazette, November 13, 1833
More Indian Rations.-The
attention of contractors is called to Capt. Brown's advertisement in a subsequent
column, for receiving proposals, until 2d January next, for furnishing rations to
the Choctaw Indians at the several issuing depots west of Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, November 13, 1833
Emigrating Choctaws.-By Col. W. Rector, Assistant Emigrating
Agent Removal of Indians, who arrived on Monday, from Rock Roe, we learn, that about
300 Choctaw emigrants arrived at that place before he left, and that 500 more were
expected there by Monday evening. The wagons and teams were already there to transport
them to the west, so soon as the whole party should come up. A party of about 600
is expected to reach here about Sunday next, for the Kiamiche, and another party
will proceed up, via the Cross Roads, 25 miles north of this place, 25 miles north
of this place, to Fort Smith, and settle on the north side of the Arkansas, above
that place.
Arkansas Gazette, November 13, 1833
The Columbus (Miss.) paper, of 15th ult. says that some
5000 or 6000 Choctaw Indians, residing in the Southern District of the old Nation,
refuse to remove to the west, in accordance with the treaty.
Arkansas Gazette, November 13, 1833
Emigrating Choctaws.-About
600 of these Indians have crossed the Arkansas, at this place, during the last two
days, on their way to their new homes in the vicinity of the Kiamiche. They are
conducted by Capt. PAGE, U.S.A.
Arkansas Gazette, November 29, 1833
Emigrating Choctaws--The
Helena Herald, of 28th ult., says that about 100 emigrating Choctaw Indians crossed
the Mississippi, at that place, on the preceding Saturday, on their way to their
new country west of Arkansas.
Arkansas Gazette, December 11, 1833
It is high time, we think, that some other arrangement
be made, to insure a more regular receipt of the mail from Memphis. There is defalcation
and mismanagement somewhere in the present one. If a body of Indians, (men, women
and children), with some 200 ponies, can pass through the Mississippi swamp in the
course of two or three days, (which has been the case within the last two or three
weeks), we can see no good reason why the mail cannot be carried through with regularity.
But so it is-travelers daily pass through; and yet the mails cannot, because the
swamps are impassable! The fact is, there is a lack of energy and perseverance on
the part of those now engaged in carrying this mail, otherwise it would be more
regular. The late contractor was discharged, in consequence of failing to perform
his duty-but we do not perceive that his successor has mended the matter. The mail
is just as irregular now as it was before his discharge. A new change, we imagine,
will have to be made, before the public will be benefited. The route, we know, is
a difficult one to perform; but, with ample compensation, (and no prudent man would
undertake it unless well paid for his labor and risk), every obstacle can be surmounted,
if energy and good management be used.
There have been so many failures of this mail latterly,
that we do not know how many are due. They, however, we believe, amount to six or
eight-enough, we hope, to authorize the Postmaster at Memphis to freight a steam-boat
around with them.
One arrived on Saturday last, but brought nothing later
than we received by that of the Monday previous. None arrived yesterday.
Arkansas Gazette, March 3, 1835
It would appear, by the annexed extract from the Texas
Telegraph, that the people of that province are not particularly in favor of having
more Indian neighbors:
"Those tribes are
the same which have been removed to the 'far west' by the government of the United
States. We noticed, in a conspicuous paper, and which has always advocated the cause
of Texas, that in speaking of the Seminole war, and its consequent disasters, it
said it clearly pointed out the necessity of removing the Indians west of the Mississippi.
If the Indians east of that river are sufficiently formidable to hold the citizens
in dread, in a country, too abundantly furnished with every means of defence, the
citizens of Texas and the western states of Mexico surely have reason to apprehend
hostilities from al the Indian tribes which have, from time to time, been sent on
to their borders, unless the government of the United States take precautionary
measures for keeping them in check. This they are in duty bound by the treaty to
do, as well as to protect its own citizen on the frontiers, and which, we consider,
the only and primary object of the military movements under the direction of General
Gaines on the eastern borders of this country."
Arkansas Gazette, November 22, 1836
More Choctaw Emigrants.-The s.b. Erin passed up yesterday, with 200 Choctaw emigrants, from the old nation east,
under the charge of Maj. Cross, on their way to their new homes west.
Arkansas Gazette, May 9, 1838
Indians.--Our friend,
Hon. J. J. McRea, late Speak of the House of Representatives in Mississippi, came
up yesterday, on the Swallow, with about one hundred Indians in charge, en route
to Fort Coffee.
Arkansas Gazette, May 24, 1849
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