1854 July Tyee Jo, Indian Chief Jo
Wm. Miller

	To	2	visits	&	medicines	for	wife	&	daughter	$25.00
Oct.	"	3	"	"	"	"	self	"	"	25.00
1853	"	2	visits	"	medicines	"	wife	&	daughter	20.00

    Dr. Ambrose, you will please present this bill to Gen. Palmer for settlement. If he should object remind him of the time he was here and told me to let Jo have medicines and attention.

	March	4th	Paid John Adams as per hotel bill	$2.00
	"	5th	"   L. D. Kent for repairing guns	4.50
	"	5th	"   John Dillard per hotel bill	4.00
	"	11th	"   John S. Walton      "        "	2.50
	"	18th	To 15 days services of T. R. Magruder, local agt. from
			Feby. 27 to March the 18th at $3.00 per day	45.00
				$58.00

Deer Creek
    March 18th 1856
   

Sir:
    The undersigned, the committee named in the enclosed proceedings of a public meeting, having called at the Superintendency as required & finding none of the officers present, have enclosed the copy in this note. We request your answer to the interrogatories in writing. One of our number will wait upon you at your residence on Monday next. As there will be a good many persons present in Lafayette on next Tuesday, and as we have no doubt they would be glad to hear any further explanations you might desire to make, we hope you will improve the opportunity.
Genl. Palmer
    Superintendent
        Indian Affairs
   
    A meeting was called on the 28th inst. for the purpose of obtaining information with respect to the Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation and to appoint a committee to wait upon the Superintendent of Indian Affairs for such purpose.
Jas. Barnhart
    Sec.
   
    The following preamble and interrogatories were read and adopted, viz:
   
To Superintendent of Indian Affairs
    We the citizens of Yamhill Co. in view of the existing state of Indian difficulties and in consideration of the numerous reports in circulation throughout the country greatly agitating the public mind, rendering many fearful of their present safety and of the safety of their property, and in view of the very little reliable information possessed by the public in relation to the manner of taking care of the Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation and securing them from committing depredations upon the whites of this valley we would ask the immediate answer to the following interrogatories.
    1st. How many Indians in all are there upon the Reservation & how many of each class, men, women and children.
    2nd. How many of those Indians are permitted to carry arms, and of what kind and how many of each kind of arms there is among the Indians.
    3rd. What amount of ammunition is allowed to the Indians per day, or per week.
    4th. For what purpose, how, when, for how long a time, in what manner, and by what numbers Indians are permitted to leave the Reservation.
    5th. Are there Indians in the valley not included in those numbered on the Reservation. If so, how many and whether so permitted to reside outside of the Reservation by the Superintendent.
    Whereupon a committee consisting of
was appointed to wait upon the Superintendent and present a copy of the proceedings of this meeting.
    On motion the meeting stands adjourned until Tuesday next at 2 o'clock p.m. when the committee are required to make their report.
A. Barnhart
    Sec.
   
To

	Messrs.	Jas. A. Campbell	)
		S. B. Alvey and	)
		A. S. Watt	)	Committee

Gentlemen:
    In the absence of the Superintendent [of] Indian Affairs, who was yesterday called away upon urgent business, it devolves upon me, as the person in charge of the office, to make reply to the interrogatories propounded and adopted by a meeting of the citizens at Lafayette on the 28th inst.
    In reply to the 1st interrogatory: The census of the Indians upon the Grand Ronde Reservation is not yet completed. The number of Indians of the various tribes is estimated at about 450 men and 550 women and children.
    2nd interrogatory: The Indians at the Grand Ronde Reservation are not permitted to carry arms. Arms, when needed for the purposes of hunting, are allowed them. I am informed the agents in charge have a repository for all arms at the reservation and that the issue is made to small parties of Indians therefrom, and when they return from their hunting excursions, their arms are returned. The aggregate number of guns of all kinds at the reservation, I am informed, is less than twenty-five.
    3rd interrogatory: No allowance of ammunition is made to Indians. A certain number of charges is given them when on hunting excursions, the amount of which is discretional with and regulated by the agents in charge of them.
    4th interrogatory: The Indians of the reservation are not permitted to leave it unless as teamsters, driving teams, and then accompanied by white men in the employ of the Department.
    5th interrogatory: The Indians residing in the valley are not included in the number stated in the reply to the first interrogatory. The number of Indians residing in the valley, with white persons, doing service, I do not know, but suppose they are few. General Palmer has in two or three instances since I have been in the office granted applications of settlers to permit Indians (specified by name & tribe) to labor for them; the question of service and pay being left between them.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, Nos. 109-110.



Gen. Joel Palmer Sup. of Indian
    Affairs for Oregon
Sir
    We the undersigned citizens living immediately in the vicinity of Grand Ronde Reservation would respectfully ask of your honor that you would cause said Indians to be kept upon said reservation and not allow them to leave it with any arms.
    We would further show to your honor that said Indians have and are still prowling about the county with their firearms begging and where the men are not about frightening the women to give them whatever they may wish, we would respectfully ask that our prayer be complied with or we will be compelled to resort to such means as will render our houses safe from their intrusion.
    Your petitioners will ever pray.

D. Garrison	Job Burden
P. Henshaw	A. Bolejack
J. Stoner	J. P. Dickey
S. Edwards	T. Dickey
J. W. Knifong	G. Short
W. Cox	Abraham Eads
J. H. Hunsaker	R. Roads
James Murray	E. Harper
N. J. Kennedy	J. Ridgeway
T. A. Kennedy	W. B. Springer
Spencer C. Foster	N. Hussey
O. Osborn	G. Matcher
	W. Hall
	J. Eldridge
	J. Dickey

NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 126.   The transmittal records the petition as having been received March 29, 1856.

Office Superintendent Ind. Affairs
    Dayton, O.T. March ----, 1856

Sir,
    Referring to the conversation had in reference to boarding or subsisting employees, I have now to direct that from and after the 1st instant, the wages of employees will be arranged so as to cover the cost of subsistence. You can either make arrangements with Mr. Hash to do the cooking, or each man furnish his own board as may best suit him. Whoever may be engaged in boarding the hands, provisions may be drawn from the supplies about equal to afford rations for such as are employed, and the rate per week for board will be applied to the replacing such articles as one draws on the boarding master, [who] may purchase his own supplies and charge by the week for board, and this plan I think would be preferable as the accounts would then be numbered with these details. No subsistence can be accounted for in the accounts but for issues to Indians and supplies for hospital use, so that if purchases are made by you for other objects they cannot be brought into the accounts, and must be a separate arrangement with the boarding master and employees. In the purchase for seed, the vouchers will state for what object and tribe it has been purchased, so also for labor performed. Induce the greatest possible number to commence the cultivation of tracts for themselves, as now when they are subsisted they may easily perform service, as no time need be spent in seeking food for themselves and families.
    This ball playing should if possible be discouraged, or at least confined to one day in the week, and the balance of the time employed in something that will be useful to them. Those who obtain passes, of course, will not draw rations.
    You will I think be under the necessity of taking the census of them and calling the roll at least twice each week, as unless this be done they may be charged with offense committed by others, besides it will guard against impositions.
To
    Hon. W. W. Raymond
        Sub-Ind. Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 98.



Sir,
    I have the honor to inform you that some time ago I received your letter of the 20th instant with one from Col. Wright, and very recently your communication of the 25th inst.
    You are aware of the exposed situation of this post and the town adjoining, the buildings scattered over a large extent of ground, and but one company left to garrison and defend it in case of an attack. That company has just returned from the Cascades, where I had sent it to endeavor to succor the inhabitants and relieve the blockhouse; the inhabitants in the vicinity of this place are much alarmed and many are moving in with their families. It would be imprudent and wrong for me to detach any of my force, and I regret that I will not be able to send you the troops you require. I know full well the necessity of having a large force on the Grand Ronde Reservation; at least one company ought to be there. I think Genl. Wool will come up on the next steamer, when I will communicate with him on the subject; probably he will send a company to the reservation as soon as practicable. I regret that I did not see you when you passed here from the Dalles.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Indn. Affairs
        Dayton
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 132.



Sir
    I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of 21st instant in reply to my note of 15th instant in which I endeavored to describe the condition of Indian affairs in this part of the state and asking for intentions relative to the Indians on an island at this place.
    It is true there is nothing on the reserve except its natural products for the subsistence of these Indians in case of their removal, but it is thought that these together with what they have on hand will furnish them with a supply of food nearly sufficient.
    How much expense will have to be incurred in the purchase and transportation of subsistence it is impossible for me to form a correct estimate, as it will depend on the contingencies of the fishing season &c., but it is my opinion that the additional expense for provisions incident to their removal need not exceed two thousand dollars. But should it be necessary to expend a much larger sum, the advantages to be expected by their immediate removal would richly repay the outlay.
    It must be remembered that these Indians have always lived heretofore near the line, and are more or less connected with those at war with the whites farther norther, and should they be allowed to return to their homes they would either join the hostile bands through inclination, or to avoid their vengeance, or would be suspected of giving aid and comfort to the enemy and would be found to assume a hostile attitude from the treatment they would receive from the whites, thereby augmenting the savage forces and bringing the war into our midst.
    These Indians do and must sympathize with the Rogue River Indians, and the Klamaths with these, and as they do not regard state and territorial lines, they must be entirely separated and all communication cut off, or they will all become hostile so sure as this war continues one or two years longer, which from present prospects is highly probable.
    Up to this time no hostile act has been committed by any Indian living this side of the line so far east as I have exercised any jurisdiction, since the war commenced, but the Oregon Indians have in one or two instances committed outrages within the borders of this state. I refer to the murders near Indian Creek and on Upper Klamath last fall. That they (Oregon Indians) should ravage the country about here when hard pressed in the interior I consider within the range of a rational probability.
    An agent would require a wonderful influence over his Indians as well as the white settlers to restrain them and maintain peaceable relations between them if they are to remain scattered all over the country. I confess I cannot hope for such power over the passions of the two races.
    The loss of stores of which you speak has been caused by bad weather, which always prevails during the winter on this coast. We can hope for better fortune during spring and summer. There should be a trail constructed from the lower station to this place, which would supersede the necessity of sending by sea unless the weather should be perfectly favorable.
    I suppose that a statement of the situation of affairs would explain the necessity of an additional force of working men upon the reserve. It will require at least two men for months in the removal and creation of the Indians now on the island and to place them in a situation to support themselves.
    It will require an experienced fisherman to manage the seine. Another person should be employed who is a blacksmith and willing to make himself useful at anything the agent in charge may direct. Such a man I can employ for $100 per month. The necessary tools can be purchased here at a cost not exceeding $150. This arrangement will prove a saving as well as a very great convenience.
    The Indians so far as they can are willing enough to work, but in their present ignorant state they cannot be expected to do more than assist. They can no more take a team and break up this land than they can build a steamer. When they are taught they will do well, but at present are little better than so many children at most of the labor to be performed on the farm. With nine working men instead of five as at present the reserve can be improved and the Indians taught to work so that another year a less number of men may be required.
    The detachment of troops at Capell should be increased to a full company, so that upon request of the agent a detachment may be sent to any part of the reserve, and that without first sending for authority to do so to Fort Humboldt, or any other distant part of the country. We need while the war is so near us a small number of soldiers on the lower end of the reserve. The agent in charge should be a man whose judgment in a matter of this kind can be relied upon. He ought to know more of the character of the Indians on and about the reserve than an officer at Fort Humboldt or he is unfit for the position.
    The military commander in Northern California and Southern Oregon, Col. Buchanan, argues that if the "moral force of a detachment of 30 men at 'Capell' will not keep the Indians of the reserve in order, then ten men at 'Waukell' can be of no service."
    Moral force is no doubt a great lever in society, but with Indians I choose to be able to show them that I can protect myself & punish them if they are unruly, as well as afford them protection from their enemies.
Hon. T. J. Henley
    Supt. Indn. Affairs
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 816-819.



NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 214.




Dr. Ambrose Sir or Genl. Palmer
    An Indian known as James Oldman has signified his intention to go to the reserve & as he was among those attacked on the head of Myrtle Creek he has fears that appear to be well grounded that those persons that attacked them on Myrtle Creek have still a disposition to kill them. There are some persons wishing to be brought in communication with the old man for some reason whether to kill him or to take him to the reserve I know not. But inasmuch as the old man has made known to me that he would feel safe in my charge & I believe I can conduct him to the reserve as cheap as any other person, I only await your sanction to move him immediately. There are 2 males & 3 females in the co. The Indian spoken of gave up his gun to Clark & co., has never done the whites injury to my knowledge, & I believe the Indian should not be refused the opportunity to go to the reserve.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 155.



Sir
    I have just arrived from Port Orford. The news from there is that the regulars & volunteers have had a fight at the Mikonotunne ranches. They killed 8 Indians that they found on the open ground. There was a good many killed in the brush, how many they did not know. Also another fight on Pistol River by the volunteers under Capt. Abbott from Crescent City, don't know how many Indians killed. The volunteers fought them for 36 hours. The Indians stole 30 of their mules and run upon the regulars coming up. Capt. Tichenor was their guide from Crescent City and says he thinks he killed the Red River Indian Eneas. If it was not him it was at least a tyee ["chief"]. [He was mistaken.] The Coquille Indians left the reserve at Port Orford and came back to the river. Last Monday the volunteer company under Capt. Creighton came up and killed 12 of the bucks and 1 squaw. 3 Indians got off, 2 of them Coos Bay Indians, the other a Coquille. We are very badly off here for ammunition, provisions and arms; in fact, unless there is something done very soon to help the people we will have to leave the country as we cannot fight Indians and work at one and the same time. There is neither provisions nor ammunition to be bought here even if we had the money to buy with. Nothing more at present.
E. P. Drew
    Umpqua City
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 140.



    Strange emotions of sorrow and pity take possession of us, as we rend the accounts of the new Indian wars which have sprung up in Oregon--the last stopping place of the red man on his sullen retreat to the Pacific--the last fierce struggles of a doomed and dying race. Yet a few years, and the red man of North America, once undisputed lord and baron of the whole continent, from the St. Lawrence to the Atlantic and Pacific, will have disappeared forever. A race of men, occupying for unknown generations and centuries, and still possessing no memorials of their existence, save childish and feeble traditions, will have passed away forever, leaving no native trace of their existence, and being known to posterity only through the imaginative personations of Cooper, the truthful records of Flint, and the graphic pencilings of Catlin. History scarcely offers anything more melancholy than this rapid and complete extermination of the Indian race in North America.
    Of course, the passing sympathy which we pause to expend upon the inevitable fate of the red man does not lessen our interest in the misfortunes of the white settlers who have thus made themselves the pioneers of civilization, and are subjected to all the horrors of savage frontier warfare. We unite with the journals and correspondents from Oregon in urging upon the general government the necessity of prompt and energetic action in protecting the lives and property of our fellow citizens on the far western frontiers of our gigantic empire.
Plymouth Weekly Banner, Plymouth, Indiana, April 3, 1856, page 2



Sir:
    I have just received a telegraph dispatch from General Palmer informing me there will be 200 Indians up here tonight, and to have the necessary provisions made for them.
    Therefore, it is necessary that you should, with all dispatch, repair to this place, which you will do on reception hereof. I hope you may be able to reach here tonight.
To
    Mr. John Flett
        Interpreter
            Wapato Lake
Beinecke Library WA MSS 370



Sir,
    You are appointed as special agent in the Indian Department to take charge of and direct a party of armed citizens who have been employed as guard to protect the citizens and Indians along the boundary of the Grand Ronde Indian Reservation, and to perform service in constructing a line of fences along such boundary and open a wagon road from the Indian agency to the coast through the Yamhill and Neachesna Pass, as also such other labor as may be assigned them by the agents in the Indian Department. You will act in the capacity of captain, enroll the names of men, and generally to direct the movements of the company so as to allay the fears of the inhabitants and protect them from offenses, alleged so likely to be committed by Indians located upon the reservation. The line will be pointed out to you by the agent in charge, R. B. Metcalfe Esq., and you will seek to so guard that line as to prohibit any Indians from passing out, unless accompanied by a white man properly authorized to afford him protection, nor will any white person be permitted to cross the line unless having business with the agency, and you will in conjunction with Lieut. Hazen, U.S. army, now in command of a detachment of twenty men, so arrange the guard duties as to effectively cut off all communications from the reservation to the settlements of whites save with the above exceptions.
    And all persons, citizens and Indians violating the rule or attempting to cross the line clandestinely you will arrest and retain in confinement until the party or parties can properly be turned over to the regularly constituted authority. The object of this guard is to give security to the inhabitants, both whites and Indians, and to prohibit any improper intercourse between the two races, to do which a line of demarcation must be established and none permitted to cross that line.
    The Indians upon the reservation will be notified by the agent of these arrangements, and any attempt by them to cross the line secretly or clandestinely will be regarded as evidence of hostile intentions, and he will be treated accordingly. So also with whites, but instead of the latter summarily being punished, they will be arrested as disturbers of the peace and dangerous to the safety of the country. You will take measures to erect a blockhouse at some convenient point near the road and contiguous to the line of reservation to be of suitable dimensions for storing supplies and quartering the men on guard duty, and the retentive [sic] of such persons as you may find it requisite to retain in custody. This line of fence will be so constructed as to require the passway by a gate near this blockhouse, and a quarters there kept up that all persons going to and from will be passed through this gate. The Indians are in the habit of throwing down the fences when in their way of travel, and the stock are liable to break it down in many places. To avoid the occurrence of this, it is necessary that in its construction you secure these fences by setting stakes and placing on the top long and heavy poles extending over as many panels as the length of a tree may reach, so that to remove one of them would require the combined efforts of several men. The company will be divided into messes of guard and workmen as may suit convenience and promote the service. The subsistence, camp equipage &c. will be furnished by John Fleming Esq., who has been appointed commissary, and who will deliver the messes upon your requisition.
    Mr. Edward Cluff has been appointed orderly sergeant. Should you require additional aid in the direction of this business giving efficiency to the service, you will select such persons from the ranks of the company as you may deem proper. After examining this line upon which the fence is to be constructed, it may probably be deemed proper to divide it into sections, putting the force upon that portion likely to cut off the communication first; in this manner the lines would not be so greatly extended, a few points only requiring a guard.
To
    Capt. J. S. Rinearson
        Comd. Co. Armed Citizens on
            Guard at G. Ronde Reservation
                now at Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 99-101.



Dear Sir
    Since I recd. your instructions requiring me to take the census and call the roll of Indians at this encampment I have had one man employed at that business but have not as yet been able to make out a complete roll. It is next thing to impossible to get them all together so as to take a correct census. I have learned from experience that if we wish to accomplish anything here it must be done by white labor or by contracts. So far the Indian labor has cost the government for more than it would have cost to perform the same service by white labor or by contract. I have been trying to get them to make rails on the line of the reservation, but they seem unwilling to undertake the job. I think we had best have this fence built by contract and employ Indians to work where there is no particular hurry nor anything likely to suffer from their carelessness and irregular attendance. I have not taken the arms from the Rogue River Indians yet from the fact I have no place to put them. They are all willing to deliver up their arms or to submit to any arrangement I may think best for them, and we have but little to fear from them at this time.
    When I arrived here I found everything in confusion and nothing apparently being done, and I find it hard to put the ball in motion again. I hope to see you soon, when by your advice and assistance we will be able to establish order and have the business move on smoothly.
Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 125.




Sir
    Your favor of the 16th inst. with a remittance of twenty-one hundred dollars to this Agency I have the pleasure to acknowledge.
    The receipts for the same I hope ere this have reached your office.
    By the instructions therein contained I fear I have exceeded my authority & your instructions in furnishing rations [to] the Indians along the coast.
    About one-half (½) rations as specified in general order from your office under date of Aut. 13th 1855 have been furnished the Coos & Umpqua bands in this dist. during the quarter just passed (see quarterly returns).
    Continued & repeated complaints have come to this office regarding the rations furnished as the citizens deemed the quantity insufficient & alleged that the peace & safety of the community was endangered thereby.
    Until the present time I have considered their complaints grumblers, yet have given them all the attentions that they could possibly demand.
    Until I am instructed from your office the Indians will be retained in the temporary reservations at the smallest possible expense.
    Since the massacre at the mouth of Rogue River the excitement has been increasing & still continues to increase. Petitions have been forwarded to Gen. Wool for troops &c. &c., all of which will (I suppose) have little or no effect.
    I have been called upon & urged to furnish full rations to all Indians on the reservations & not permit them to leave as heretofore to fish & hunt & since the late attacks on the Coquille & along the coast south I have adopted more strict & stringent rules & regulations in that respect. A full & reliable account of the late difficulties south may not have reached your office & I enclose a letter received this morning from Wm. Romanes which may be relied on as strictly correct.
    I am led to believe that letters & petitions have been sent to your office & so far as they may relate to the furnishing of full rations for a limited time I would endorse.
    At Coos Bay there is no provisions to be bought. Since the first of this month the Indians have supplied themselves & must continue to do so unless flour is supplied them from Umpqua Valley at an expense of ($12) twelve dollars per hundred delivered at Coos Bay.
    And I find it difficult to obtain even at that price & do not feel justified in a purchase at that price without instructions. A letter from this office in regard to the removal of the Coos bands to Umpqua River must have reached you ere this & I await your order in the same.
    & A. C. Gibbs of Gardiner has removed to Scottsburg for protection & the citizens there are anticipating an attack & much excitement prevails throughout the whole region as usual.
To Gen. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 137.



Mr. Joel Palmer
    Sir, by the request of several of the citizens of this settlement I make communication relative to one Skookum John, an Indian who inhabits this region. He has a small band with him consisting of 3 men and 4 or 5 squaws. They have generally been considered friendly Indians, but from some recent maneuvers the settlers are becoming alarmed, fearing that he is not genuine. The facts relative to the case are these. He keeps himself along a route leading from Klamath Lake to Oregon City through this hilly region and is in the habit of building large fires near the trail and keeping them up during the night. He is now located on the South Santiam at the edge of Sweet Home Valley, where the trail crossing the Cascade Mountains connects the Klamath trail, and has lately stuck up a painted pole with a bunch of feathers on it right on the trail that comes down the Santiam. He has been known to have former communication with the Indians east of the Cascades previous to the present Indian difficulties. There has also been other strange Indians reported to have been seen among them occasionally. These Indians are of the Molalla and Klamath tribes. This John is a very smart and brave Indian and is well calculated to do great damage to the settlement if he is so disposed. On account of the present weak condition of the settlement a large number of our ablest bodied men being volunteered and absent, and our exposed condition to the two inroads from across the mountains. We therefore solicit a speedy removal of these Indians, as we neither consider them nor ourselves safe. They now are regarded as enemies and for their protection and safety should be on the reserve. I was told by a Mr. Woodfin well acquainted with John that he said if you would send for him he would go to the reserve.
Mr. Joel Palmer
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 153.



Sir,
    W. F. Beatty and Green C. Davidson have been awarded the contract for supplying the Indians at the Grand Ronde Reservation with beef for six months commencing April 1st 1856. You will accordingly assist them in the erection of slaughterhouses &c., and allow them to occupy the large Cooper field for pasturing the beef cattle, not to exceed however fifty head at any one time. They will probably be able to furnish you for the next issue. The beef will be slaughtered on the ground and the quarters only weighed; all the offal will be regarded as belonging to the agency with the exception of the hides, which will be the property of the contractors.
    The contract furnished is eight cts. per lb. net. I presume it will be necessary to have two points for slaughtering: one near the agency and one convenient to the Rogue Rivers and Umpquas, but of this matter you will determine. It should be slaughtered at least one day before issuing when the weather will permit, as it is exceedingly difficult to cut up before it is cooled. When cooled it will be weighed and turned over to the commissary, who will under your directions make the necessary issue. The contractors will have nothing to do with issuing, but will simply turn over the quarters and receive their receipts for the number of pounds delivered you. Payments will be made at this office periodically for the quarters of beef delivered and specified upon such receipts given by you.
To
    R. B. Metcalfe
        Sub-Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 103.



To Genl. Palmer
    Indian Agent
        Dr. Sir
            We take the liberty to address you at this time in reference to matters pertaining to the interests of all persons who have been sufferers by the recent Indian outbreak in this district. You are probably aware of the fact that the people residing at the mouth of Rogue River apprehended an outbreak of the Indians and frequently solicited assistance, but our appeals were not responded to. The fearful time came. Men & children were massacred and helpless women carried off captives--our property destroyed, reducing many of us in a few short hours to want and poverty. In this condition we are left without even the means of leaving if we were so disposed. Our object in writing you is to ask of you to point out the proper course for us to pursue that our losses may as speedily as possible be brought before the proper tribunal for adjustment.
    Have the kindness to give this your earliest attention and believe us
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 180.



Gen. E. M. Barnum
    Sir, having at length some leisure time I take the liberty of writing you a few lines merely to let you know that I am still above dirt, notwithstanding all the efforts that has been made to kill me off. The war still drags along as slow as ever notwithstanding I have quit the field and left it in possession of all the great Indian fighters. Still I hope to see the end of the war soon. Still it can't be yet; we will all know when the end comes. We yet must lose many good men. The Lord knows that if we should never have another legislature like the last it will be well for Oregon. They well nigh played the devil in general and turned up Jack. Still all things taken together I think it will all work together for the best. I will be at Salem as soon as I can leave the office for a short time. I wish very much to see you and Gov. Curry, as I have many things to say to you both that I can't write. There is a great move behind the curtain that will be brought to light in due season. Some men must rise or fall, and it seems to me that they can't rise. All things must find their level sooner or later.
    I would have been down before this if it had been in my power to have left. I left the service owing to being appointed receiver of the land office at this place, which was unexpected to me. Still I had rather be in the service if my circumstances would warrant me in doing so. My duty to my family compels me to try and provide for them, which I can't do in the volunteer service. Still, when the right time comes I think I will take the field again but never to play second fiddle again. Next time neck or naught please give my respect to Gov. Curry and tell him that the storm may rage, nevertheless he will always find me the same firm unflinching friend at all times ready and willing to sink or swim with him or Gen. Lane.
    Please accept my kindest regards for yourself and family.
Gen. E. M. Barnum
    Salem Oregon
Oregon State Archives, Yakima and Rogue River War, Document File B, Reel 2, Document 607.



Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Indian Affairs
        for Oregon
            Dear Sir,
                The undersigned residents of Umpqua County, considering the exposed condition of the lives and property of the citizens of this county,
    And also the fact that the Indians at the mouth of the Umpqua River and Coos Bay are collected and placed in charge of local agents who are delivering to said Indians only a small amount of food, we would respectfully but earnestly recommend the making of immediate arrangements to supply said Indians with full rations--believing that present policy will lead to the most disastrous consequences.
    We would also respectfully request you to use your influence to have a company of U.S. troops stationed at the mouth of the Umpqua River with a view of providing for present dangers and preventing future outbreaks, after the Indians should have been moved onto the Coast Reservation.

R. J. Ladd	Addison C. Gibbs
J. Thompson	Madison Scobey
J. N. Knott	Charles G. Hinderer
J. P. Sand	I. M. Fox
W. W. Hubbard	J. H. Searle
J. B. Hamblin	G. Oppenheimer
Thomas Stephens	James Train
Jas. T. Cooper	D. W. Stearns
Isaac Oppenheimer	E. Spicer
T. E. Delauray	A. B. Kellogg
Daniel Wiles	Wm. A. Mills
Robert Smith	Anderson Long
William C. Burk
C. F. Booth
J. T. Savoy
Thos. G. Colvin
Thomas Baly
Shadrach Hudson
S. Hinsdale
F. M. Tibbetts
I. N. Smith
E. N. Merat
Wm. Romanes
J. R. Thompson

NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 142.



Sir
    By express just arrived from Port Orford brings information to the effect that the volunteers & regulars have had an engagement with the Indians on the Coquille, killing & mortally wounding twenty Indians & taking some forty squaws & children prisoners. The volunteers are still in pursuit. No account of any whites killed. A party from Coos Bay have gone to the assistance of the volunteers on the Coquille. A general destitution of supplies are complained of, no steamer having touched at Port Orford for several weeks.
    Nothing can exceed my anxiety to hear from your office. The excitement here is great & complaints of neglect numerous as usual. I entertain no fears of the Indians in this dist. if funds can be forwarded me for the purchase of supplies. I shall endeavor to contract on time before I leave this point for a limited supply of flour & hope it will meet with your approval.
Gen. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 136.



    Mr. Palmer, we the undersigned wish to inform you that we have met this day for council to see what can be done with a certain little band of Indians, Skookum John and company, which is roving the country, insulting people and frightening our families.
    We wish you to take charge of all the Indians that is traveling to and from through our country or inform us what to do with them.

E. H. West	Asa Hull
R. McPoland	Richard Finley
J. H. Luis	H. Malone
Thos. S. Woodfin	M. Cary
D. Cary	A. R. Breeden
W. Oplann	N. A. Russell
E. Fields	Wm. McHargue
Joseph Seely	Wm. Matlock
J. Joslin	J. Robinett
J. Johnson	Wm. Robinett
D. Fields	R. Gass
William Fields	J. Huntrucker
Matison Kirk	T. Fields
Jesse Barr	J. Fields
James P. Lewis

NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 139.



Sir
    I landed at this place from the steamer Columbia early this morning, and finding an express messenger on the point of starting to the north I take the opportunity of laying before you such facts in regard to the accounts of special Sub-Agent Wright and the condition of Indian affairs at this place as I have been able to procure in the few hours I have been on shore. I find encamped at this place 230 friendly Indians of the Floras Creek, Sixes, Elk River, Port Orford and a few of the Coquille bands. All other Indians in this district are considered at open war with our people. The Coquilles came in to this place but after remaining a short time fled in the night to the mouth of the Coquille River. They were followed by the citizens of this vicinity and attacked. Fourteen men and one woman were killed, a number wounded, and twenty-five taken and brought back to this place.
    Col. Buchanan is now at the mouth of Rogue River with 220 men in search of the hostile Indians. Major Reynolds is with him. Capt. Smith is at this place but is to start in a few days to join Col. Buchanan with 24 men. The settlers from the surrounding country have all collected at this place for safety.
    Jerry Maguire is with the troops at the mouth of Rogue River. I shall send for him today. Jenny is in the village.
    I find William Chance in charge of the friendly Indians at this place as local agent employed by Wright. I understand that he has been very industrious and efficient.
    I shall have a talk with the Indians in the morning. Major Reynolds  has in his possession 604.37 dollars. He also issued in the public fund belonging to Wright. He has also issued to the Indians 84 sacks of clams brought here by Wright.
    I shall be able to procure a part if not all of Wright's papers. He had used at this place some property and at which his liabilities to the Department can be found if he proves to be behind hand.
To
    Gen. Joel Palmer
        Supt. Ind. Affrs.
            Supt.'s Office
                Dayton
                    O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 176.



Sir:
    I have the honor herewith to enclose two letters from Agent Nathan Olney, under dates of 18th February and 1st March, respectively. The former, in reply to mine of 12th December--disapproving his course in appointing servants of the Hudson's Bay company as local agents or interpreters--seems to be a retort upon me for having employed a portion of the interpreters at the Walla Walla treaty who had originally been servants of that company.
    I do not deem it necessary to attempt a reply to the letter further than to say that his entire action therein has been regarded by me as highly injudicious and improper. His going to Walla Walla with, and acting as aide to camp to, Col. Kelly and taking part in the fight, holding the commission of the President as an Indian agent, and placed on duty in another Territory, was in my opinion conduct unofficer-like. By his advice the chief was induced to come into camp--as he admits sending him a message asking an interview. After he had been wounded with a pistol shot which felled him to the ground--but from which the agent thought he might have recovered, though his head was scalped and entirely peeled--and whilst yet alive Mr. Olney approached him and putting a pistol to his head fired and instantly killed him--to put an end to his misery, as he states.
    Agent Olney's going there was in violation of an express understanding between him and myself. He there sent a message to this Chief Peu-peu-mox-mox, who came in, under a white flag, was taken prisoner, afterwards wounded and scalped, and whilst breathing, his brains were blown out by the very agent who had sent a message that he wished to see him. Whether he was justified in the eyes of the troops in this act does not affect the result so far as his acts as an agent. He was at the time outside the limits of the Territory in which he had been appointed to service & consequently had no jurisdiction as such officer. And the violation of the respect due to a flag of truce which these Indians had been taught by us by those acting in the capacity of agents of the government in the Indian Department is well calculated to destroy all confidence and make them distrustful of our every act.
    With reference to the subject matter contained in his letter of the 1st ultimo, I have no comments to make--but may be permitted to say that the party to which he refers as coming down with him are, with one or two exceptions, believed to be of the most disreputable persons and regarded by the community as a lawless band of ruffians congregated in that country for no other object than plunder and robbery--several of whom were encamped for a long time near his dwelling.
    There is not, to my knowledge, any evidence of his having any immediate connection with this gang--though he has been upon intimate terms with them so far as outward appearances can indicate.
    In a former letter I alluded to the information I had received of Agent Olney's giving a written order to the members of the Hudson's Bay Company and others in the Walla Walla Valley to abandon that country. This I find to be the case--such orders were given by him, and were, he states, predicated upon the supposition that there was danger of an outbreak among the Indians in that vicinity. I have no reliable evidence fastening any improper motive upon Mr. Olney in giving these orders, but that they will be made the basis of numerous real & imaginary and exorbitant charges against the government for property thus abandoned, I have good reason to believe.
    With these remarks I submit the case of the agent to the consideration of the Department.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affrs.
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 834-836.



Private letter.
Dear Sir
    Please find enclosed a list of articles necessary for this agency. I have been looking for you for several days and feel disappointed that you have not been up. Everything is in confusion here, caused in a great measure by the scarcity of materials and tools to work with. I have not paid the Rogue River Indians their annuities from the fact there are not enough blankets, pants &c. for them. They are becoming very much dissatisfied from this delay, but I have run myself to death almost trying to attend to a thousand things at once and consequently doing nothing right, so I have neglected to attend to their wants.
    I send in another envelope my resignation and hope you will receive it in the proper spirit. It is not without mature reflection I have arrived at this determination. I have held onto this situation several months longer than I should have done under the supposition that Dr. Ambrose would resign and give me that situation, but now he has determined not to resign until the end of this qr. and at the end of this I suppose it will be the same it has been for the last six months, so I have nothing to expect from that quarter, and my present salary does not justify me in continuing in a situation where there is so much responsibility. The losses that I would unavoidably sustain would consume a large portion of my salary, and my expenses added would have me in debt at the end of the year. This is my reason for resigning, and no other. I have ever entertained the most kindly feeling towards yourself and family and shall ever feel grateful for the many acts of kindness shown me whilst at your house.
    I think Dr. Ambrose would like this situation and hope you will give it to him. He is a good man and has a family to support.
    Or perhaps Olney would like it, but Raymond is unworthy [of] the situation or any other. I regard him a snake in the grass, but you must be the judge.
    I have only allowed myself time to make out my accounts, but if you think I should bring up my accounts in my own time I will do so and give way immediately to any person whom you may designate to fill my place.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 138.



Sir:
    Since writing my letter of the 25th ultimo, events of the most stirring and exciting character have transpired in this country, caused by the bold and successful attack on the Cascades by hostile Indians, attendant with the loss of many valuable lives and destruction of much property. I enclose some newspaper slips [frames 661 and 662 of the link below, from the April 5 Oregon Weekly Times] which will give you the details, and the retaking of the place by U.S. troops.
    The first reports of such outbreaks are often contradictory and erroneous, and this instance may not, perhaps, be an exception to the general rule. It is, however, but too true that from ten to fifteen persons were killed and a large amount of property destroyed.
    These outrages and those in Southern Oregon have created a state of feeling among our citizens almost uncontrollable. Active operations were on foot to gather in the scattering bands upon the Grand Ronde and Coast Reservation, but this unexpected outburst of popular frenzy came well nigh upsetting and defeating the whole project. Not a little of this unnecessary excitement, I am forced to believe, grew out of efforts of disappointed politicians who strove to verify the predictions made last winter by members of the legislative assembly by circulating the most outrageous, exaggerated and groundless reports in regard to the acts of Indians and the agents in this Department to excite the fears and prejudices of the people. Meetings were held by the citizens simultaneously in different parts of the Territory, and prior to the late attack on the Cascades, petitions and memorials, resolutions and remonstrances were drawn up by the few present and passed condemnatory of almost every movement made by the Indian Department, tending to inflame the minds of the people (who were ignorant of the facts) and drive them to acts of desperation.
    The order for furnishing me with troops to guard and protect the reservation could not be complied with. A lieutenant with twenty privates are all that could be obtained. The threatening attitude of the community led me to apprehend a general and combined attack upon the camps of friendly Indians located at the Grand Ronde and the slaughtering or driving into a hostile position all who might be residing in this valley. I consequently deemed it necessary to organize a force of armed citizens and place them upon the eastern line of the reservation, cutting off all communication of the settlements and the Indians, and whilst thus engaged in guarding this line to construct a fence from mountain to mountain as a line of demarcation across which none could pass. This I have attempted putting into execution and have good reason to believe will be successful. It will require a force of about sixty men and to remain until relieved by the promised company of U.S. troops. I have in the meantime taken the necessary steps to collect all the scattering bands in this valley, and, in addition to the one thousand now upon the tract recently purchased, there is at Dayton awaiting means of transportation to the reservation four hundred and forty Indians, one hundred of whom start today. I have been compelled, in consequence of hurrying from their homes many who had not expected to be called upon so soon, to remove, and finding others in a totally destitute condition, to distribute a much larger supply of merchandise than had been anticipated. We have among those friendly bands quite a number from remote points of the Territory, portions of whom if not provided for would necessarily suffer or if left to shift for themselves would be driven into the ranks of the enemy. Among these may be named the Upper Klamaths, one hundred and forty-one souls, who have for several years past been in the habit of residing in this valley during the winter season. We have also a number of Spokanes, Klickitats and others from Washington Territory, and a few from California who came to this country with miners and others and have become identified with our tribes.
    With the exception of a few families scattered along the Columbia River, below the mouth of the Willamette, all the bands of this valley are now here, and upon the Grand Ronde purchase, as also those of the Umpqua Valley and three hundred and ninety-one friendly Rogue Rivers. The travel through the country and arrival of the last-named Indians at the encampment is made the ground of serious complaint, and false and exaggerated reports of a few designing public agitators has so wrought upon the fears of the citizens that nothing short of the knowledge of their being wholly disarmed and a strong guard constantly kept up would allay their apprehensions, and even now, when these Indians are wholly defenseless, it may be regarded as doubtful whether we shall be able to pacify the public mind and prevent an attack upon them, under the plea of someone having left the reservation and committed some act of violence. Almost every device imaginable is resorted to for the purpose of creating a panic and abusing the minds of the public against those entrusted with the management of Indian affairs in this Territory. The confidence of the Indians, though shaken at times, still appears unbounded. They cheerfully come forward & deliver up their arms of every description, guns, pistols, bows & arrows &c., and appear willing to conform to any rules which may be imposed--save only that which would require them to an immediate removal to the coast. Short as the distance is, but few have ever visited it, and there is a natural aversion to a residence there, but if allowed to first see the country and ascertain its facilities for subsisting them, and the ease of communicating with these wheat farms, their repugnance will disappear. All appear pleased with the idea of having a road to the fisheries on the coast, and by occupying these farms, which have been owned and used by whites, for a limited period, all the tribes may be peaceably and properly located, but to force, by compulsory measures, any movement which may appear objectionable to their uneducated and whimsical minds, would prove disastrous to the whole policy of the government. No movement beyond that attainable by persuasive means can be ventured upon at this exciting time--looking to a settlement beyond the Grand Ronde, unless supported by a military force, for the fears of the Indians from attacks of hostile bands are apparently as great as that of our own citizens, and to be placed unarmed along the coast in proximity to tribes with whom they have but little acquaintance, and constantly menaced by the encroachments of whites without any means of self-defense, is a requirement beyond their conception of justice and strenuously opposed at this time.
    So long as these bands are unsettled and there be continually kept up an intercourse between them and the whites, so long will we be unable to maintain order and discipline, or enforce anything like system among them. As docile and well-disposed as these Indians are, an unprovoked and unwarranted attack upon them would be followed by the most disastrous consequences. It would deluge the entire country in blood, for it is folly to talk about exterminating these Indians with the number and class of people in this Territory. Should we be furnished a company of regular troops to guard this end of the reservation we will be able to maintain peace with those tribes, otherwise (unless an enormous expense be incurred in employing citizens to do the duty of troops) we must be plunged in a war with them.
    No recent intelligence has been received from the Port Orford District. Agent Olney went down on the steamer of the 28th ult. with instructions to collect the Indians at an encampment near the fort, and as soon as an escort could be obtained to remove them to the Coast Reservation, which when done will require a company of regular troops to be stationed on the coast upon the southern end of the reservation, at Umpqua, Siuslaw or in the vicinity of Cape Perpetua. Agent Olney has been directed to locate the Indians of the Port Orford District north of Cape Perpetua, and Sub-Agent Drew to have those of Coos Bay and Lower Umpqua located on the Siuslaw River.
    No decisive blow has been struck in Southern Oregon giving any hope of a restoration of peace; on the contrary, the Indians have been victorious in every engagement where war parties have met. The difficulties to overcome in subduing these tribes through the medium of firearms has been greatly underrated, and whilst I feel confident that the war might be brought to a close by negotiation within, perhaps, a few hours after an interview with the hostile bands, if guarantees could be given of protection to such as might surrender and give up their arms, I would by no means seek to effect such an object unless sustained by a force having the physical strength to maintain fully the faith of the government. This force is not now, nor has it been, in the country since the commencement of negotiations with Indian tribes. This is the cause of our present war and will continue to curse the land until the strong arm of the government is extended to afford protection to the ignorant, weak and downtrodden aborigines of the country--protection against the cupidity, prejudice and licentious treatment of these people.
    Considerable progress had been made in the purchase of materials, tools, teams and subsistence for carrying on [of] operations upon the Warm Spring, or Wasco, Reservation, but the countermanding [of] an order for a company of U.S. troops to accompany and afford protection to Indians and employees, and the closing [of] the communication between Vancouver and the Dalles, unless by water, will materially retard operations in that quarter.
    In another communication I submit several letters from Agent Thompson, which will advise you more in detail of the condition of affairs in that district. At present nothing can be accomplished in the removal and arrangement of those Indians, and unless we have an additional military force, and one sufficiently prepared to meet the enemy and properly check him, I fear we will be compelled to fight the entire Indian population in that country--and this fear may be properly applied to all the tribes in the Territory. Instances of treachery on the part of those professing friendship have been known, but it is by no means as general as reports would seem to indicate. Common sympathy and fear induce many to give aid and comfort to the enemy who if kept aloof and properly cared for would remain neutral. An impression is among them that the hostile Indians are abundantly able to maintain their position, and that they will ultimately rid the country of the whites.
    I have upon several occasions in my communications urged the necessity of changing the character of troops to operate in Middle Oregon and Washington Territory. Recent operations prove conclusively that infantry are entirely unsuited to that service, unless so far as garrisoning the posts and escorting supplies &c. The Indians in that quarter are well mounted and during the summer season have facilities for traveling to be unapproachable by infantry. Nothing but cavalry or dragoons can control the movements and guard against sudden attacks of these savages. The establishment of military stations at not remote distances from each other throughout the country, with sufficient force to operate in a circuit around each post by infantry and cavalry to make quick marches to different points so as to give protection to settlers (and thus effectually to occupy and hold possession of the country) would in time effect the object, but such a process would be very likely to drive the enemy, unconquered, to remote points unfrequented by our troops and probably without the line of our Territory, from whence they might return to wreak their vengeance upon the defenseless and unsuspecting. Negotiations might also bring the war to a close, but goaded on as they have been and encouraged by their successes, it is questionable whether they would have a just conception of our power to deter them from similar outbreaks. Matters have, in my opinion, arrived at such a point that nothing short of an additional and an efficient military force to conquer at once a peace will have the desired effect, and the longer it be delayed the more formidable the enemy. There are certain chiefs known to be implicated in fanning up dissensions; no false sympathy should screen such from a just punishment, but a proper discrimination should be made between them and others who have been driven into a hostile attitude.
    Before closing this communication I must be permitted to again refer to the unnatural and unprecedented hostility of a portion of the people, who are urged on by a few fanatics in their opposition to the policy sought to be carried out towards these Indian tribes. Their actions give evidence of the most bitter and hostile feeling towards myself, and apparently regard less of all feelings of justice or common humanity towards the Indians, dictated by prejudice, passion and hatred towards these people, which if permitted by the government to be acted upon would be a lasting blot upon our reputation as a nation.
    The dissensions between the different functionaries of the government, civil and military, tends greatly to destroy the efficiency of the service: crimination & recrimination but adds to the flame, and whilst a considerable portion of the energies of the respective parties are exhausted in striving to gain the ascendancy and convince others of the correctness of their policy, the enemy goes unwhipped, their forces continually augmenting, our citizens slaughtered, and our settlers cut off and destroyed. One party, apparently, looks and acts to a great extent of the result in a political point of view, another in a military point, whilst both, with the means and elements at work, only tend to protract the war, give encouragement and hope to the enemy and render less secure the rights of person and property. There has not been, nor can there be, any concert of action between the regular forces and volunteers, so long as the present commanders remain in the field, and if it is desired to give protection to our people and deal justly with these Indian tribes, the regular military arm of the government must be strengthened in these two territories.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affrs.
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 647-662.


Sir,
    I have just learned of you arrival at Port Orford to take charge of the Indians on the reservation at that place. During the excitement consequent on the outbreak of the Indians at this point I took charge of all Indians in the vicinity of my post, as the comdg. officer & under the general authority of the army regulations in the absence of any proper civil agent, collected them on the military reservation, fed and housed them.
    The provisions were furnished principally from the stores on hand for the troops, save about [blank] sacks of flour which Mr. Wright had previous to his trip to this place purchased & stored in Port Orford, and I will request the Com. Dept. at Washington to make the charge against the Ind. Dept. and have it settled then. The lumber I purchased of Mr. Tichenor at Port Orford and have requested him to hand his bill to you. To him I issued none, nor authorized the issue of any by anyone.
    Sergt. Kelly, the com. srgt., will give you an exact account of the amount of flour found stored in town belonging to the late agent Capt. Wright and the blank above can be filled up.
Capt. N. Olney
    Ind. Agent
        Port Orford O.T.
    I received $664.37 from Mr. Dunbar, public money in Mr. Wright's hands, when he left Port Orford for the mouth of Rogue River, and which he had deposited then in the safe of Mr. Gerow, merchant. This money when I left Port Orford I was instructed by the comdg. officer of the district to turn over to Lieut. Macfeely, who has been ordered to turn it over to you.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, probable enclosure to No. 171.



Dear Sir
    As my personal and domestic affairs will require my attention to such an extent as to interfere with my duties as Indian agent, and would prevent me from devoting my undivided attention to that office, you may therefore inform the Department of my inability to discharge the duties of the Agency and accept this as my resignation, to take effect at the close of the present quarter on the thirtieth day of June next.
    And accept my thanks for the many favors shown me during the brief period I discharged the duties of office.
Joel Palmer
    Supt. Indian Affairs
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 148.



Sir,
    I have the honor to tender to you my resignation as an Indian agent for Oregon, to take effect at the close of the present quarter the (30th) thirtieth day June next, 1856.
Joel Palmer
    Supt. Indian Affairs
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 855-856.




Sir,
    On my arrival here this morning I learn that not a little uneasiness is manifested among the Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation, owing to the unwillingness on the part of the Rogue River Indians to give up their arms. This unwillingness appears to be in consequence of an apprehension that they might be attacked and thus be entirely defenseless. Others of the various tribes have done so, and they express dissatisfaction at the Rogue Rivers retaining theirs, as are also the citizens generally. Some bitter difficulty also has occurred between the agents, either as an excuse to have an opportunity to resign or from real cause I know not which; at all events, there is a disposition to avoid facing the music when the time requires firmness and unity of action. In the dilemma in which I am placed, between disaffection among the Indians on the reservation and the alarm and excitement among the citizens and backing out of agents (for two have resigned this morning), I am likely to fail in the entire plan unless I can obtain aid from the Military Department. We have now on the reservation, and here awaiting transportation, about fifteen hundred Indians. It is of the utmost importance that they be kept there and quiet, and with a citizens guard we will I fear be unable to maintain order.
    There is a moral influence, depending upon the presence of regular troops not attainable by volunteers. Those which I have hired, some sixty men, may serve as auxiliaries, but unless we can obtain troops at once, everything may be lost. I have the request also to be furnished forty stand of arms to place in the hands of employees on the reservation. I shall endeavor to call upon you in person before you leave. In the meantime, I wish you would send me help. I depart immediately for the Grand Ronde Reservation and shall personally investigate the precise condition of affairs and take such steps as may be advisable with my limited means.
To
    Major Genl. John E. Wool
        United States Army
            Commnd. Dept. Pacific
                Fort Vancouver O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 116-117.



Sir,
    I enclose herewith a copy of my letter of the 12th inst. to the President of the United States on the subject of the $300,000 appropriated by Congress for the preservation of peaceful relations with the Indians in the Territories of Oregon and Washington, and request that you will prepare the necessary instructions to the Superintendents of Indian Affairs in those Territories, to be transmitted to them by the next steamer.
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
   
Sir,
    By an act of Congress approved the 5th inst. the sum of three hundred thousand dollars was appropriated to be expended under your directions "for restoring and maintaining the peaceable disposition of the Indian tribes on the Pacific."
    I respectfully recommend that the execution of this law and the expenditure of the money thereby appropriated be committed to the War Department, and that so far as the feeding and clothing of the Indians who are or may become friendly towards the government and people of the United States may be employed as a means of restoring and maintaining the peaceable disposition of the tribes, the respective Superintendents of Indian Affairs may be consulted by the military commandant of that division.
To the President.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 295-297.



Sir
    Under the supposition that the appropriation for restoring and maintaining the peaceable disposition of the Indians on the Pacific coast, which was the subject of your communication of this date, will be placed under the charge of this Department, it is presumed therefrom that you are fully prepared to submit an economical plan of expenditure of the same, and can readily draft proper instructions to that end. I have therefore to request that such plan and instructions may be prepared as soon as practicable and presented to this Department for consideration. I have also to request that the papers on this subject, which you have this day received, may be sent to me.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commr. Ind. Affrs.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 298-299.




Joel Palmer,
    Superintendent Indian Affairs
    for Oregon Territory
Dear Sir,
    Yours of January 10th has been received, and you are correct in your recollection of my desire to present a claim for losses sustained by the Indians when acting under the direction and request of Superintendent Dart in the year 1851. And I thank you for your suggestion in relation to presenting my claim against the department for allowance and I here will avail myself of doing so. Accompanying this you will find an account which I have made out for the several losses and the value of each item with my affidavit accompanying.
    I wish you to instruct me if anything more will be required and if so what testimony will be required. My losses and my defeat at the Coquille are matters of public notoriety. The genl. government sent troops immediately to chastise the Indians; this is a matter you know personally yourself. The claim should have been presented long ago but my situation was such I could not attend to it in fact I really did not know how the matter could be reached in any way short of a memorial. I would be glad if you would pass on it at an early date. Please to write me by return. As Mr. Hayward takes this to you, please to write me by mail and if you should want of further testimony (which I hardly think you will from the notoriety of the affair) please say what particular fact or circumstance needs further evidence. By your attention to this for me at this time it will much oblige me, as I have to leave tomorrow for Jacksonville, or immediately on the return of Mr. Hayward, by his bringing your letter, it will expedite my business much.
Dear Sir,
    Enclosed is a letter to James Gamble Esq. at Port Orford in which you will see I have requested his aid in taking the first steps towards attempting to negotiate with the Rogue River Indians for their lands in Oregon.
    Knowing your desire to restore peace and harmony in that country as well as extinguish the Indian title to the lands I am induced also to ask your cooperation in the attempt to collect these Indians for treaty purposes at Port Orford. Your extensive knowledge of the country will enable you to render us essential aid in this matter without interference, I would hope, with any other business in which you may have embarked in their country, I have sent an express to the crossing of Rogue River to notify the chiefs and headmen there, to come down to Port Orford to attend this treaty. It is our wish to treat if possible with the whole tribe at that place, therefore should it become necessary for you to step out of the line of your other business to promote this much desired object you will be remunerated for your trouble.
Wm. G. T'Vault Esq.
The foregoing is a true copy from the letter book page 155 in Supt's. Office O.T.
   
Indian Department of the
Territory of Oregon
    To
         Wm. G. T'Vault                                                                           Dr.
1851

Sept.	14th	for services rendered from Augt. 21st to Sept. 14th in the Indian department 24 days at $5 per day	$120.00
"	"	six horses lost during service valued at $150 each	900.00
"	"	five pack saddles and fixtures valued at $25 each	125.00
"	"	one American riding saddle valued at	75.00
"	"	nine guns lost in service valued at $25 each	225.00
"	"	one Sharps rifle, valued at	100.00
"	"	one dragoon Colt's revolver	50.00
"	"	one pair pistols	50.00
		Total	$1645.00

Territory of Oregon
    Be it remembered that on the 17th day of April A.D. 1856 personally appeared before me Joseph G. Wilson clerk of the Supreme Court for the Territory of Oregon the undersigned W. G. T'Vault and made oath that on the 21st day of August 1851 he started from Port Orford on the Pacific coast in Oregon Territory, that he had with him six horses, five pack saddles and fixtures, one American riding saddle, nine guns, one Sharps rifle, one dragoon Colt's revolver, one pair of pistols, that he proceeded south along the coast to the mouth of Rogue River notifying the Indians as requested by Dr. Dart Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Oregon Territory, from thence up Rogue River twenty five miles to the north bend from thence to the Coquille River thence down the Coquille River to near the coast notifying the Indians. On the route of said request of Dr. Dart, when near the mouth of the Coquille River himself and his party of nine men were attacked by the Indians, five of his men were killed and himself and four others making their escape, severely wounded, which attack occurred on the 14th day of September 1851, the said Indians having committed depredations on the whole line of march and finally capturing all the property contained in the foregoing account, that said property was taken by the Indians while he was performing the duties as required of him in the annexed letter of Dr. Dart Superintendent &c. and that the value put upon the services and the property taken by the Coquille Indians is a fair and just value in cash and that he is justly entitled to receive for the same the sum of sixteen hundred and forty five dollars.
Subscribed and sworn to before me at my office in Salem O.T.
(  seal  )                Clerk of the Supreme Court of Oregon
NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency, 1856, frames 746-753.



Sir
    Since writing to you on the 10th inst. no material change has taken place in our Indian relations in this district.
    Capt. Smith has since started to join Col. Buchanan at the mouth of Rogue River. Lieut. Macfeely is in command of the post,with thirteen (13) men for duty. A large amount of the settlers that had collected at this point left on the S.S. Columbia on her downward trip for Crescent City and San Francisco, so that the place is almost in a defenseless condition.
    I had a talk with the principal men of the friendly bands of Indians at this place on the 11th inst. They appeared anxious to remain on friendly terms with our people and expressed a willingness to listen to and obey their agent.
    Since the death of Spec. Sub-Indian Agent Benj. Wright, they have been confined to very narrow limits, and not allowed to provide for themselves the means of subsistence that they have been hitherto accustomed to, but have been compelled to depend for subsistence upon the rations issued to them by the comd. officer of the post. They were not satisfied with the change of food, and expressed a wish to be allowed to provide themselves with some of the articles of food that they had heretofore been accustomed to using. In compliance therefore with this wish, and in order to carry out your instructions, I allowed them to go along the beach on the other side of their village to gather food, using my own judgment as to how far they should go, and the time of absence.
    As soon as the people of Port Orford discovered that they, the Indians, were allowed this privilege, they commenced collecting and arming themselves for the purpose of pouncing upon these unsuspecting women and children scattered along the beach gathering the means of subsistence, and murder them.
    I was apprised of this fact, and by promptly collecting and sending them to the village saved their lives. A meeting of the citizens was then called, and Indians and Indian agents denounced in the most unmeasured terms--expressions were used by our citizens at this meeting that would have disgraced the most barbarous tribe of Indians.
    I was given most decidedly to understand that the only way I could save this remnant of Indians was to keep them confined within very narrow limits, and feed them. I am therefore compelled to furnish them a larger amount of subsistence than had been anticipated.
    The troops in this district are all actively engaged in the field against the hostile Indians, and the necessary escort for the removal of the friendly Indians could not at present be procured.
    The animals required for the transportation of provisions and the sick and infirm en route to the reservation cannot be procured at this place, except at exorbitant prices, and I do not know whether a sufficient number could be procured at all.
    The Indians have of their own some six or eight horses, which can be used, and in addition to that number twenty more animals will be required, also ten pack saddles and four riding saddles complete.
    I am now issuing flour to the amount of two hundred and twenty-five (225) lbs. per day.
    I commenced issuing on the 10th inst. at the above rate; the six thousand (6000) lbs. received will be consumed by the 6th of May.
    Arrangements cannot be made to move from here before the first of June; it will take until the 6th of June to arrive at Coos Bay, and to subsist the Indians up to that date will require six thousand (6000) lbs. of flour in addition to the amount on hand.
    As to the amount that should be shipped to Coos Bay and Umpqua, or other points on the coast, for their subsistence after leaving Coos Bay, I will not presume to advise. As far as I have been able to learn, Spec. Sub-Indian Agent Benj. Wright, his employees and Major Reynolds have contracted debts to the amount of five thousand ($5000) dollars for the subsistence and providing for the friendly Indians in this district. Three thousand ($3000) of that amount is for lumber purchased by Major Reynolds to build houses for those encamped at this place. Some of these accounts have been presented to me for settlement, but not having received funds for that purpose, or instructions in regard to such liabilities, I declined to act until authorized by you.
    I shall require two thousand (2000) dollars, in addition to the funds now on hand, to defray the expenses of the quarters ending June 30th and September 30th 1856, and as it may be inconvenient for me to receive funds after leaving this place, allow me to suggest that the amount required be furnished me before starting from this place.
Genl. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Supt.'s Office
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 171.




Dear Genl.
    In accordance with the intention expressed in my letter to you of the 14th inst. I proceeded to the Grand Ronde Reservation, where I found considerable uneasiness and alarm had been gotten up by representatives, apparently for no other purpose than to cause trouble, but as mentioned in that letter, the Rogue River Indians decline giving up their arms for the reasons stated. And whilst I have no fear that they meditate any hostile movement, yet in the popular frenzy and feeling among our citizens I regard it highly impolitic to permit them to retain even the few guns they possess, as it serves a few agitators means of creating alarm and keeps the community in constant agitation. There appears to be a determination on the part of the people to take steps to disarm them, and a failure to effect the object on my part will be followed by the most unwarranted assaults against the Indian Department and having the community in direct conflict with all the tribes on the reservation. I dare not attempt disarming them with the force at my disposal. Doct. Newel, who has visited the Ronde, can give you may details and explain to you the necessity of an increased force at that point. I cannot but express my fears that a failure to obtain them will prove disastrous to the whole scheme and end in deluging the whole country in blood. I need not say that every effort will be exerted to avoid such a calamity. The fears of the Indians are apparently for a time somewhat allayed, but with the denunciation of political demagogues and interested politicians, reward effects to create alarm and provoke retaliations [that] may enable those agitators to wean the confidence of the Indians entirely from us. In conclusion, permit me to hope that the forces under your jurisdiction may be so arranged as to afford the aid so essential to the maintenance of order and the preservation of peace.
To Genl.
    John E. Wool
        U.S.A.
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 121.




Sir,
    On my return to this post from the Dalles on the evening of the 17th I received your communication of the 13th instant. Expecting every hour your expressman I have delayed a reply. He has not yet made his appearance.
    I have ordered Lieut. Sheridan with a small detachment of dragoons to join the detachment ordered for the protection of the Indians on the Coast Reservation. As soon as you call send an agent for forty stand of arms; they will be sent you with a due proportion of ammunition. This is all I can do for you at the present moment. As soon, however, as the war is brought to a close in Southern Oregon I will be able to send you a company, and if necessary two, to protect both the inhabitants and Indians from attacks of either Indians or white men.
    The news from Puget Sound is highly satisfactory. From the information received from Colonel Casey I think peace and quiet will soon be restored to the inhabitants of that region. It would seem that the hostiles have passed from Puget Sound to the Yakima country.
    Herewith you will receive a requisition for forty stand of arms and receipts which you will please to sign and send with the agent you may send to receive the arms and ammunition.
    I shall probably leave in the steamer Columbia on her downward trip about the 27th instant, previous to which I should be much pleased to see you in order to confer with you on several subjects.
To
    General Joel Palmer
        Supt. of Indian Affairs
            Dayton
                O.T.
Vancouver 23rd 1856. Captain Newell this morning handed me your favor of 19th instant. Come and see me before I leave. You may depend on my sustaining you to the extent of my power. Lieut. Sheridan is a gallant soldier and will do good service. He will keep intruders from the reserve. He will do just what you may desire.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 160



Sir:
    Having previously had an interview with the President and Secretary of War, at which it was determined that the $300,000 appropriated by the act of Congress approved the 5th inst. for the purpose of restoring and maintaining the peaceable disposition of the Indian tribes on the Pacific should be transferred to this Department, I addressed a letter to the Secretary of War on the 17th inst., with a view to having the matter formally laid before the President for his order to that effect
    In submitting my letter to the President, the Secretary of War said, "I deem it proper, however, to suggest that so much of the fund as may be necessary should be used to replace the subsistence stores which have been furnished to the friendly Indians from the army supplies, or which may be so furnished before orders can be sent out to prohibit any further issues of the kind."
    If previous to arrangements being made by your agents the War Department should issue orders prohibiting any further issues of subsistence stores for the benefit of the friendly Indians, may it not cause difficulty and embarrassment and result in disaster? Would it not therefore be advisable to request the War Department to withhold such orders until you can hear further from Gov. Stevens and Supt. Palmer--and in the meantime agree to pay for such stores out of the said appropriation and, so far as it can be properly done, likewise for those which may have been already furnished by the army for like purposes?
    These suggestions are made to elicit the views of the Indian Bureau and to enable the Department to reply at once to the Secretary of War, as the prohibitory orders alluded to by him may possibly go out by the next steamer.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Com. of Ind. Affairs
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 300-302.



Sir:
    In regard to your suggestion that the subsistence which has been furnished to the friendly Indians on the Pacific coast from the army stores by officers of the army, or which may yet be furnished until orders can be sent to prohibit further issues, should be paid for out of the recent appropriation of $300,000, I have the honor to state that it is the disposition of this Department to do so as far as may be found practicable and proper, and I shall be glad to know the precise amount of such issues, whenever you may be advised of it.
    I have read the various communications which have been recently received by the Indian Bureau from the Pacific, and intend sending you copies of such of them as would be likely to interest you as soon as they can be prepared.
    Whatever subsistence may have been furnished to the Indian agents by the officers of your Department for distribution among those friendly Indians, and whatever they may continue to furnish to the officers of the Indian Department until they can otherwise procure them, will be promptly paid for, and I shall therefore be glad if the countermanding orders alluded to in your endorsement on my letter of the 17th inst., in submitting it to the President, should be so framed as to permit the officers of the army to continue letting the Indian agents have such supplies--they paying for the same--until they shall have completed their arrangements for purchasing them.
    I send you, herewith, extracts from the instructions which go today to Supt. Palmer and Gov. Stevens, and also an extract from a recent communication from Supt. Palmer to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs.
Hon.
    Jefferson Davis
        Secretary of War
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 304-306.



Sir
    I have just been handed your letter in reply to mine of this date. The Secretary of War, as well as myself, had reference to reimbursements for subsistence furnished the Indians from the army stores by the officers of the army, and not by the officers of the Indian Department, and, fearful that my suggestions may have been misapprehended, I wish to ask whether if, in consequence of the inability of the officers of the Indian Department for want of means to subsist the friendly Indians on the Pacific in order to protect them from conflict and association with the hostile bands, that subsistence has been or shall be furnished by the officers of the army, from the army stores, and with the like purpose and effect--it is not incumbent upon this Department to reimburse the War Department for such subsistence--and whether, in your opinion, any part of the $300,000 in question is, or is not, applicable for that purpose.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Com. of Ind. Affairs
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 312-314.



Dear Sir
    The weather being so unfavorable I was fearful of venturing out and as I am quite anxious to return home, I avail myself of the opportunity to transmit my papers to your office by the messenger sent by Mr. Metcalfe. By reference to these papers you will see the Agency is indebted to the amount of eighteen hundred dollars or near that. I state the amount from memory, which I desire to settle as soon as possible. My object is to close the business & leave for the States at the earliest possible moment, although in my resignation I stated a period to allow me full time to do so, but as the season is far advancing I am exceedingly anxious to start before June and would so modify my resignation if I head [south] again; however, I apprehend that will make no difference as I can send you another as soon as the business is closed which I hope to be able to close in a few days after my arrival at home. I have not examined these papers as much as I should have done if my health had been better. I hope you will keep them in the office until my return from Rogue River. And in the event any of them should require fuller explanations I will be able I trust to give it. In my property return of last quarter I notice a mistake which had entirely escaped my observations at the time. In the receipt for cattle it shows that I have but eight yoke on hand whereas it should have been eight & half [a] yoke or seventeen head. I have corrected it on these returns & on the copy sent from your office you will please make the correction on the other copy or keep it on hand until I return which will be some time in May, probably the latter part.
    If it is desired that I should settle the outstanding liabilities contracted by Mr. Culver I will do so according to instructions already given & it would be very acceptable to the contractors who have already waited a long time for their pay, and some of whom I know to be very needy & greatly in want of money. I have already stayed too long away from home & were it not that I were so very anxious to get my family away from those difficulties south I would call & see you, but I recollect of nothing but what can be done as well on my return from the south as at the present time & again it would allow you time to examine my accounts more fully than you would have time to do now.
    Upon examination I find the outstanding liabilities of this quarter to amount to eighteen hundred and twenty-three dollars & ninety cts., the precise amount of liabilities during Mr. Culver's term of office I do not recollect, but I believe it amounts to a little over three thousand dollars.
    It will probably require about five thousand dollars to pay the debts of the Agency & if you have not the cash I could probably get a draft of that amount cashed, or if you have not that amount to spare at present, you will confer a great favor by sending me the amount necessary to liquidate the indebtedness contracted by myself, as I had to pledge my personal credit I believe in every instance & the pressing necessity to get the Indians away was the reason of my doing so. I send blank receipts by Mr. Davidson, who will deliver you this & bring to me any return communications which you may choose to send. If it should be deemed necessary to send any word to George & Limpy's people I can convey it to them, indeed they will look for some on my return, as it was promised them. I told them I would lay their proposition before you & return your answer & they are looking for me before this time & should I stay away much longer I fear they will attribute it to some improper motive & I may thereby endanger the safety of my family, as I left them at home on my claim. I had thought of taking Ben back with me to hold a talk with them & if nothing more could be done for the present they might be removed to Fort Lane & kept under charge of Capt. Smith until such times as it would suit your convenience to remove them; at any rate something ought to be done with & by taking them under charge you will no doubt save the life of many whites, however I will abide & be governed by any instructions you may send me, but of one thing I am quite confident that if those Indians are informed this is to be a war of extermination the whites will be the sufferers greatly.
    As Mr. Davidson is in considerable haste to start you must make all necessary allowances for mistakes.
    Mr. Babcock & others are here and were here yesterday. I really believe some trouble is brewing in that quarter. You had better come up if you can; things are growing worse every day. On Sunday night several Indians were very drunk, had plenty of whiskey. Don't know where it was obtained. I believe it requires attention in time.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 163.



Mr. Joel Palmer
    Dear Sir
        I see that you have had the kindness to cause the last squad of Indians sent to the Grand Ronde Reservation to be placed on and adjoining my place so that their stock will be certain to live off of my place. Now, sir, there is a point from whence forbearance ceases to be a virtue, and that time has now come with me. If you think that you can place the Indians and their stock upon my place and run over me you will soon learn that you have fallen into a great error.
    I have my rights, and I think I know them and knowing them I dare defend them.
    If you think that you can coerce me into measures in reference to the sale of my place you will find yourself mistaken, and I warn you, sir, to be careful how you impose upon me any more or you will have a warm time in this region certain.
    All I ask and all I have asked is that you, sir, comply with what you promised (without any solicitation on my part), that is, to use your best endeavors to keep the Indians and their stock from annoying me. This, sir, you promised to do, and is this the way you fulfill your promises; is this the way that you take to keep peace; is this the way, sir, that you take to throw the responsibility if there should be any difficulty upon the head of others; if so you have hit upon the right one.
    Now, sir, I tell you that if these Indians and their stock are not removed from my place by the eternal I will take the responsibility of doing both with a vengeance.
    You talk about using your best endeavors to keep all quiet and peaceable, and before the sound of your words has fairly died away give orders that you must know, sir, that no man that is worthy [of] the name would submit to, that of having two or three hundred Indians put upon and adjoining and their stock upon their place.
    Now, sir, I hope that you will take this hint and not try to tramp upon or impose upon my good feelings any further or you will hear from me.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 164.



Sir,
    Your menacing letter of yesterday is just received. My first impression, of throwing it aside as too contemptible to make answer to, has given way and I will endeavor to answer it, as impudent, threatening and bombastical as it is. You well know I did not seek to coerce you in selling your land claim to the government. I was desirous to purchase of you and offered you a large sum, $4750, for it--much, indeed, above its intrinsic value--but you saw proper to refuse it, thinking you might compel me to pay the exorbitant demand you made for it. You had a right to do so, and I have no more to say.
    Every effort has been made, and shall continue to do so, to render the proximity of the Indians as little annoying to you as possible, yet the position of your land is such that Indians & their stock may sometimes get upon it without a possibility of being prevented. I gave no orders to have any Indians located upon your ground, and I much doubt if there be any upon it--should there be, however, they shall at once be removed. As soon as the line fence is completed we shall be able to keep all the stock of the Indians within the limits of the reservation.
    Perhaps you have it in your power to make it a warm time in that region as you threatened, and you may (possibly) commit some lawless act against them or their property, which might cause retaliation by them. Should you do either let the consequences that may follow be upon you. Remember this, that I hold your letter as an evidence of such design, and it shall stand forth in judgment against you. We live in a country of laws, where every man has his rights, and if aggrieved can be righted and justice done him.
    You ought not to lose sight of the truth that these Indians are removed to the reservation by order of the United States govt. and that they are under its protection, and any wanton act--such as you threaten in your letter--will be visited upon you [by] its heaviest punishments. The letter of yours which I know dismiss was doubtless written in anger; had you given yourself time for sober reflection you would not I think have sent it. Let me advise you to be governed by the usages and courtesies of gentlemen should you ever write a second.
    The point you speak of as having been reached by forbearance is not in my opinion attained, nor will it be until you shall attempt to carry into execution some of the threats of vengeance your letter is filled with.
To
    Mr. A. D. Babcock
        Union Farm
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 124-125.



Gen. Joel Palmer,
    Dear Sir,
        I am truly glad that you have so promptly responded to our call for additional security against Indian depredation. You have the thanks of our citizens generally.
    Mr. Maulsby, special agent, arrived here last evening with instructions, I am informed, to Agent Drew to move all the Indians in his district to the Grand Ronde Reserve. This will relieve the people of this section from all danger unless by some means the Indians should escape from the reserve and come down the coast to their old homes.
    I do not believe the Indians will be easily persuaded to leave the coast. The Coos Indians have expressed a desire & willingness to leave Coos and come to Umpqua. The Siuslaw Indians have not been fed, I think, and have not expressed any opinion on the subject.
    In my opinion Drew and Clark do not wish the Indians removed from the southern part of the reserve and would prefer to have the reservation moved down south to the Umpqua. Then they could continue to act in their respective offices without moving. I think the people along the Umpqua would not object to that arrangement or change, provided a company of U.S. troops could be stationed between the Indians and whites. The moving of the Indians south of here onto this part of the reserve would meet with very general opposition, unless troops were so stationed.
    Under all the circumstances I cannot tell how successful Drew will be in inducing the Indians to leave this section for Grand Ronde, but I have no doubt should you come in person but that the arrangement could be made.
    If you have decided to move all these Indians, or all in Drew's dist., I would recommend that you come at your earliest convenience to superintend the starting of them, as I consider it a rather critical time. Should they refuse to go and Drew attempt to urge them, they might be more easily induced to join the hostile Indians not far south of here, with whom they have constant communication, in my opinion.
    Still I do not believe Drew will strongly urge them to leave till he hears from you again and learns that your policy in moving them to Grand Ronde is settled.
    For safety I have moved my family and most of the government property in my charge to Scottsburg, and feeling a deep interest in our Indian affairs at the present time, should be happy to receive a line from you by return mail.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 177.




Dear sir,
    Your letter and enclosures by the hand of Mr. Donidsee [sic]  have been received.
    In reply to your suggestions that George and Limpy were expecting an answer from me as to the course they should pursue &c., I have to say that my advice to them is to repair with all possible speed to Fort Lane with their warriors and families and quit the war party. That if it be true that they were not engaged in the first outbreaks and only took up arms in defense, and after they were attacked by the whites, that by going to Fort Lane, giving up their arms and remaining quiet they will be protected, and as soon as the war is over they may come to the Coast Reservation, when they shall be cared for and secured in their rights so long as they are good people. That if I were to permit them to come now, our people would say we were taking to the reservation bad people, and it might be cause of trouble here. Our warriors are engaged in punishing foolish and hostile Indians; we have but few, but others will come--and unless all Indians abandon their foolish and bad conduct they will be destroyed. I know we have some foolish and bad people who do wrong to the Indians. I am sorry for it; our Chief is sorry for it, and we have been trying to get the Indians where they could live by themselves and not be troubled by bad whites, but our Chief lives a long way off and it takes a long time to get his orders, and if they had waited a little longer and not done wrong, we might have saved their people. My heart is that they must quit fighting and go to Fort Lane and deliver up their arms, and then we [will] know they have got good hearts, or if they prefer it they may send word to Capt. Smith, who is now at Port Orford, and meet him or a command that he may send, and go with them to Port Orford and come on the reservation with the Indians who now live at that point, and this is perhaps the best way for them to do. But they must not go by themselves or else they will be attacked, for that is the war ground. I have heard that they want peace; if so they can have it by doing as I say; either go to Fort Lane or Port Orford. If they go to Port Orford they must inquire for Mr. Olney, who is now the agent there, and he will take care of them and go with them to the reservation when he gets troops to protect them, and prevent any of their foolish people from doing wrong. I am not able to come and see them now, but if they can get to Port Orford I will come by water and see them and all that may be there as friends to try and have peace once more.
To
    Geo. H. Ambrose
        Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 126.



Sir
    By your express messenger Mr. I. L. Maulsby I am in the reception of instruction from your office under date of Apr. 14th, also fifteen hundred dollars to carry into effect those instructions.
    Measures have already been taken preliminary to the removal of the Coos Band of Indians to Umpqua & I shall at once proceed to remove them to this point.
    The Coos band are anxious to be encamped here & are ready at any moment to leave their present encampment.
Gen. Palmer
    Dayton O.T.
(P.S.) Mr. Maulsby has drawn on this agency to the amount of twenty-five dollars for which he is to account at your office $25.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 181.



Sir
    Since last reporting to you I have had a talk with Col. Buchanan.
    He informs me that the force under his command is so small he will not be able to furnish me the desired escort for the removal of the Indians at this place until he has reduced the hostile Indians in north California & Southern Oregon to complete submission. When that will be of course is very uncertain; it cannot be before the first of June next, and may not be before August. I would however respectfully suggest that horses, saddles and provisions &c. &c. be provided at as early a date as practicable so that no time may be lost in making preparation after troops are furnished. I am very anxious to carry out your instructions in regard to the removal of these Indians at as early a date as possible. I learn that the Coquille Indians who fled from the military reserve at this place are on their way back under the escort of a company of volunteers. I sent a messenger to them on my arrival, apprising them of my arrival and promising them protection if they came again to the reservation at this place. The officers of this company of volunteers agreed to assist me in inducing them to come in and to see them safely to this place, which it appears they have entirely succeeded in doing unless they should unfortunately take another fright before their arrival, which however I do not consider probable. An Indian supposed to belong to the S.S. Columbia, sent to me by S. G. Whipple, Spec. Ind. Agt., Crescent City, Cal., this Indian was found prowling about the settlements in that vicinity, was arrested by the volunteers who were about to hang or shoot him. Mr. Whipple, however, interfered and sent him to me at this place, as he belongs to this agency.
    I am now engaged in making out a census list of the Indians encamped at this place on my arrival. When completed I will forward a copy to the Supt.'s office. On enumerating them I find there is 270 two hundred and seventy. On the arrival of the Coquille I will report their numbers and condition &c. &c.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Supt.'s Office
            Dayton
                Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 185.



Dear Sir
    I avail myself of the politeness of Mr. Woodcock to send a few lines to you. In my haste the other morning I omitted to enclose a memorandum of unpaid accounts & also a small package of papers belonging to your office, which I had borrowed to enable me to complete my quarterly returns. I have nothing additional to add to my letter of Tuesday, but am waiting with a great deal of anxiety to start home. I presume the necessary arrangements can be made without my going to Dayton. If my health were not so impaired I would certainly come for more than one consideration. I would like to speak with you on matters connected with the reservation for your own interest, as well as the efficiency of the agency. Your policy which you have devised for the government of the Indians is certainly the best & it only requires to be carried out promptly & energetically to ensure complete success in order to do so efficiently. Everything pertaining to it should be harmoniously arranged. Such I very much fear is not the case at the present time. My resignation leaves the southern district without an agent, where one could be employed to a good advantage. Pardon me for making the suggestion to you, but I believe it would add much to efficiency of the Department to send Mr. Metcalfe to that district, which arrangement would meet his approbation. Indeed, he is desirous of going. I presume you have the power to fill his place here by special appointment & no doubt could do so in a satisfactory manner to yourself & government & alike promote the interest of both. No man could do more with those Indians south than Mr. Metcalfe. He is personally & well acquainted with all or nearly all of them & it certainly is a duty the government owes to the citizens of that portion of our territory to use every exertion to secure them against the ravages of hostile Indians. I am well satisfied that those Indians can be collected & taken to Fort Lane & that country saved from impending danger. It can be done as soon as a sufficient military force can be stationed at Fort Lane, which in all probability is the case at the present time. The Indians will doubtless be whipped in a general engagement soon, if not done before this time. They can then be gathered together & the war brought to a close. Your presence is certainly needed here & if you have leisure I would advise you to come up soon as possible. By so doing you may save considerable confusion. Mr. Hash talks of leaving tomorrow; however, I hope he will not.
    Since our acquaintance I have held you high in my regard & still continue to do so. My personal friendship for you prompted me to drop these suggestions, which I am aware may be regarded as gratuitous, but I have no motive other than that which desires your success & prosperity in your many arduous duties.
Joel Palmer Esqr.
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 170.



Genl. J. Palmer
    Dayton O.T.
        Dear Sir
            Mr. Worden was over yesterday, said he was not aware that it was the intention of the Indian Department to take and occupy his land without his permission until that morning and that he had come over to know the worst. I told him I did not think such was the case, that Lieut. Hazen would make a military reservation for blockhouse &c. You no doubt would pay him a liberal price for the remainder. He left satisfied and said it ever had been his opinion you was an honest man and would do what was right. Babcock no doubt had been over gassing. He tells the boys that he will allow no fence & gate to cross the road; he will tear down &c. Indians all quiet. The fencing goes on well for a day or two since the rain seared [sic--started?].
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 173.



Sir:
    I have the honor to transmit, enclosed herein, twenty one claims (numbered from one to twenty one inclusive) presented by citizens of this Territory for alleged spoliations committed by Indians, and which have been accumulating in this office for some time. A portion of these claims were found among the files of miscellaneous papers when I entered the service, and, in a few cases, the items were mentioned to the Indians at the time of negotiating treaties with them, but in most cases the circumstances were such as, in my opinion, to render it inadvisable to urge their allowance in negotiating. The lapse of time intervening between the commission of these offenses and the dates of negotiations were so great, and the constant rambling and migratory character of portions of the alleged perpetrators, as well as the absence of all satisfactory evidence in their greater portion of the claims, induced me to omit making any specific provisions to cover them in the treaties. The meager amounts allowed those Indians (the Rogue Rivers) would not warrant the payment of these claims from their annuities even if found equitable, and the only remedy, in my opinion, is by direct application to Congress.
    The claim of Jacob Comegys (No. 1) for timber destroyed and hogs killed by the Yamhill band of Calapooya Indians was presented to the chiefs at the time of negotiating the treaty of purchase for their country, but they would not allow it, alleging a right to the occupancy of that tract as having existed with them from time immemorial, and averring that they had only used timber for the accustomed buildings and for fuel, and denied having wantonly destroyed the property of others. It was admitted as possible their dogs might have killed some pigs, but that the high waters and ravages of wolves had doubtless done what was alleged against them. Judge Comegys is a meritorious citizen, and would not be likely to urge a claim which he believed to be unjust, but there may be a difference of opinion as to any legal right he has against the government on account of those Indians. I submit the claim, however, with the others, so that if the evidence be found sufficient to warrant its allowance by the Department, the necessary steps may be taken for its payment.
    The claims of John Meldrum (No. 2), Arthur Saltmarsh (No. 3), Cyrenius Mulkey (No. 4), William Wilkinson (No. 5), and William Gage (No. 6), who were, in August 1849, attacked by a band of Indians in Rogue River Valley, are believed by those conversant with the facts to be meritorious claims. The two latter, however (Wilkinson and Gage), failed to present theirs within the time specified by the 17th Section of Act of 30th June 1854; yet, should they be found legitimate as against the government that fact might not, perhaps, to be held as a bar to their allowance and payment.
    It has been, and still is, a matter of question as to the particular band of Indians who perpetrated these outrages. No treaties had then been made with any of the tribes in that portion of Oregon up to the date of the alleged offenses, and these claimants were merely traveling through the country.
    The tribes through that region, up to 1846, had generally been regarded as hostile, but during that season, and the two following, evidences of friendly feeling were abundantly shown by them. The attraction of a numerous class of persons passing through their country to and from the California mines often led to disputes and bloodshed. I am personally cognizant of the general feeling of hatred and animosity that existed against the Indians in the latter part of '48, by those traveling through that district, and the but too common practice of firing upon all [Indians] who might venture in sight. It cannot, then, be considered surprising that retaliatory steps, such as these, should sometimes occur against a people whom they regarded as natural enemies, and upon whom they were impelled to revenge the wrongs committed against them whenever opportunities to do so might be presented.
    At the time of negotiating the Rogue River treaty in 1853, it was deemed inexpedient to bring up these old claims and make their allowance a condition of its terms. Had it been understood that all such claims would have been considered, I think it probable an amount so great would have been presented as to swallow up the entire annuities allowed them for their country; besides which, the condition of the country was such as not to afford the time requisite for a due and proper investigation of the claims.
    It may be proper here to remark that the claimant William Gage belongs to a family proverbial for its hostility to Indians, and that they have been engaged in attacks upon them subsequent to treaties of peace, and that, too, against the Rogue River Indians alleged as the perpetrators of this outrage.
    The claim of Virgil Quivey (No. 7) appears unsupported by other testimony than his own affidavit; the fact, however, so far as regards the loss of life of David Dilley is well known but it is not known as committed by these Indians--save so far as the claimant's affidavit may reach. I regard the claim as of a doubtful character, and think it needs additional and positive testimony.
    The claim of R. W. Bragg (No. 8) for the loss of hogs--an account of which had been previously transmitted your office--I regard as unsustained by the evidence accompanying it. It is possible the Indians may have stolen some of them, but I think it more than probable the greater number were destroyed by wolves. It is well known that Indians are averse to hog meat, and with some few exceptions will not use it. The claim I think requires additional proofs.
    The claim of Washington L. Riggs (No. 9), for the payment of one hundred and thirty head of beef cattle, I regard as a grand, though but poorly supported, scheme to swindle the government. The point at which they are said to have been grazed, and from which, it is alleged, they were stolen, is in California, and there is in my opinion but little doubt that, if his cattle were taken away at all, they were driven off by white men, and at the instance of interested parties. A claim involving such an amount as is here set up should be fortified with every character of evidence as would clearly show all the points in the case from the time the cattle came into the hands of the claimant, and in what manner up to the actual commission of the alleged depredations.
    The claims of Edith M. Nickel (No. 10), William B. Hay (No. 11), Gabriel Smith (No. 12), David W. Beckley (No. 13), George Philpott (No. 14), Charles Ward (No. 15), George Collins (No. 16) and Obadiah Wheelock (No. 17) may be provided for, if found equitable, by the provisions contained in the last clause of Article 3, Treaty of 18th November 1854, with the Shastas, Scotons and Umpquas, as the Indians alleged to have committed these depredations were parties to that treaty.
    The claim of J. M. Claymer (No. 18), for merchandise &c. said to have been taken from him by Indians in the Siskiyou Mountains on the 18th of May 1854, was undoubtedly the work of a lawless band which has been infesting that district for many years, and whose residence has usually been in California on the waters of the Klamath River. Not the least shadow of evidence has been adduced to show that the robber was committed by any band with whom treaties have been negotiated within the limits of this Territory--or by parties with whom we are likely to negotiate--but by remnants of predatory bands alternately collected and scattered for plunder and flight.
    The claim of James Bruce (No. 19), $675 for one hundred and fifty bushels of wheat, alleged to have been stolen by "Jake's" band of Rogue River Indians, is regarded by me as having been forfeited, even if the fact of the theft be substantiated. In November 1854, whilst at Rogue River, Mr. Bruce complained to me that the Indians had stolen his wheat. I informed him that, by submitting his claim properly authenticated, it would be acted upon in accordance with the 17th Section of the Intercourse Act of 1834, but no such claim was presented and the matter rested. on the 8th or 9th of October last. I am informed Mr. Bruce was one of a party of armed men, under the command of Mr. Lupton, who attacked this same "Jake's" band of Indians whilst on their way to the Reservation near Table Rock, and killed between twenty and thirty men, women and children. Notwithstanding he states under oath, on the 15th of December, that "he has never taken any personal revenge."
    The claim of William G. T'Vault (No. 20), for loss of property whilst in command of a party of men exploring the country along the Coquille River, has for its support the affidavit of the claimant only; still, the fact of his party having been attacked is well known, but until the presentation of this claim, I had no knowledge of the assumed position of the claimant that he was acting under a letter of advice from an officer of this Department, but understood he was exploring the country for objects wholly disconnected from the public service. From a careful perusal of the letter of Superintendent Dart addressed to the claimant (a copy of which is attached to the claim) I cannot view its construction as employing Mr. T'Vault, or giving him any directions as to his course, route, or in any manner having to do with his trip. It does not appear from the affidavit that the property stolen was his own, and I presume it belonged to the persons jointly composing the party, but have no knowledge of any [of] the facts in the case beyond what is set forth in the affidavit.
    The claim of E. A. Vaughn (No. 12) for property destroyed by fire on the 29th May '52 I do not consider a legitimate one as against the government. It appears to me, from the testimony adduced, to have resulted purely from accident. The Indians were traveling in their canoes, and at night stopped near the home of Mr. Vaughn and built up their usual campfire, which, it appears, spread after their departure. There is no evidence whatever that it was the work of design.
    In the consideration of most of these claims a question arises in my mind as to whether the government is bound to indemnify citizens for loss of property sustained at the hands of Indians prior to any treaty of peace or purchase of their country. My own opinion is averse to such indemnification.
    It is unquestionable that the frequent commission of offenses by Indians against the persons and property of the citizens, and the long delays consequent upon seeking proofs and obtaining indemnity for such losses, has tended materially to induce those bitter feelings of animosity which exist against the red man on this coast. These considerations may possibly sustain the policy of the organization of some tribunal by which claims of this character may be adjusted more speedily than under the present system; or the passing of an act by Congress authorizing individuals aggrieved to commence suits in the supreme or circuit courts of the Territory where negative as well as affirmative testimony could be obtained, eliciting all the facts & attendant circumstances, usually so vague and indefinite in the claims as presented.
    These suggestions I respectfully submit for your consideration.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affrs.
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency, 1856, frames 668-678.



My dear general,
    I have the most favorable news from Southern Oregon. Much has been done by the troops since I came here. Now is the time. Can you not go down with me to meet Col. Buchanan at Fort Orford. Go with me if it is possible. Do not fail and I think we will put an end to the war in Southern Oregon.
To Joel Palmer Esq.
    Superintendent of
        Indian Affairs in
            Oregon       
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 174.



Gen. Joel Palmer,
    Dear Sir,
        Since I last wrote you I have been to the mouth of the Umpqua and seen your instructions to Agent Drew. I was mistaken in supposing that our Indians were immediately to be removed to Grand Ronde.
    Drew has commenced feeding the Indians again at the mouth of Umpqua, and now gone to Coos to bring up all of those friendly Indians. It is understood that Agent Olney is to come up with more Indians and some U.S. troops. This arrangement has quieted the fears of the people in this vicinity and is generally approved by them.
    There is no such opposition to placing Indians on the reserve in this section as you have met in the Willamette, and we hope and believe, with proper management, all will be right hereafter.
    We have just received a report which came up the coast that the Indians in the vicinity of the mouth of the Klamath River have broken out.
    I fear the war will not close for a year.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 184.



To Adjutant General Barnum
    Sir I have the honor to inform you that in consequence of depredations committed by the Coquille Indians who had deserted from the Port Orford Indian Reserve I called out my company of minute men for the purpose of chastising them then and to induce them to return to the reserve at this place. On the 27th of March I proceeded to the Coquille River, meeting some Indians on the route, who fired on us and fled. Upon reaching the mouth of that river I found one tribe of Indians encamped there and attacked them on the morning of 30th March, routing them with the loss on their part of 15 men, all their canoes and provisions and provisions &c. and 32 women & children prisoners. The latter I have sent to Port Orford where they have been taken in charge by Mr. Olney, Indian agent for that place. Learning that there was a party of Indians near the forks of that river I started the same day for that place and succeeded in killing three men belonging to the "Jackson" tribe, also taking several prisoners, principally squaws & children. Since then I have been in pursuit of the others belonging to those tribes and a party of twenty-five from the Umpqua Valley who had been engaged in the difficulties there last fall. We have succeeded in taking some four or five Umpquas and twenty Coquilles of the "Washington" tribe, also twenty-three of the North Fork Indians. The company has been in actual service from the 26th of March to the 30th day of April, both days included. I have also stationed guards at Coquille, Sixes & Elk river ferries according to request of S. S. Mann, quartermaster for this place. These men are still on duty. I do not know what is required of a minute company exactly, so if you could give me any information you would much oblige me.
Adjutant General Barnum
Oregon State Archives, Yakima and Rogue River War, Document File B, Reel 1, Document 310.



Mr. Joel Palmer
    Sir
        Your very polite note of the 22nd inst. is before me and would have had an earlier answer, but I concluded that I would have my north and east boundary established before I answered so contemptible a document.
    It becomes very convenient for you, who have not the ability or courage to do right in your official capacity, to resort to innuendo and the game of brag and threat to accomplish your nefarious designs.
    You say "You well know I did not seek to coerce you in selling your land to the government." Now, sir, I know no such thing. I know that you did not say so in so many words, but, sir, you know that actions often speak louder than words, and I have come to my conclusions from your actions in the premises and not from your words, for if your words amounted to anything you would exculpate yourself from all blame in the premises, but, sir, what are your acts. You gave orders that the Indians (before named) should be placed near my place. You knew when you gave that order that it would be impossible to keep them and their stock off of my place. You knew that they had a large amount of ponies. You knew, sir, as well then as you do now that that stock would run on my place. And you now know or you will soon find that I will stand no such game.
    You say that you gave no orders to have Indians placed upon my land; nevertheless, they were placed there. And you say "should there be, however, they shall at once be removed." Now, sir, now is it a week has passed since the above was written and still between twenty and thirty lodges are upon my place and their stock is still turned loose upon it. How does this tally with your word, with your professions. Now, sir, how does your actions speak. It is after this wise, sir, if you do not sell your place to the government at my figures I will annoy you until you are willing to do so and [are] glad to get away from that point. Again, sir, you advised the location of the regulars upon the eastern boundary of my claim in a situation to cut off my egress to and from my place, and you, sir, are now making preparations to fence up that pass, the only one that I have to get out with a team during more than one half of the year. Now don't you blush at the silliness of your word while your every act goes to give them the tic.
    When you talk try and make your actions keep strictly with your words if you wish to sustain an unsullied reputation. In reference to your offer for my place I have only to say it is not such as I can accept and I shall let all go to the Devil before I will accept anything but what I think is near its true value. You say "You saw proper to refuse it, thinking you might compel me to pay the exorbitant demands you made." Now, sir, you know that that assertion is false. You know that last fall when you first came to me my price was within a little of what it is now, and I have made improvements that more than make the difference between then and now. I told you then that I did not want to sell and that I would not take the figures that I then offered too if it was not for your bringing the Indians in so close a proximity to me. I told you the same the other day, but if you wanted it at my figures--you could have it.
    You quote from mine, and then say "You may commit some lawless act against the Indians or their stock." Now, sir, I shall do nothing but what the law and my country will amply sustain me in doing. I am a law-abiding citizen, and I am no novice in what the law requires of every citizen, but my rights I will maintain at all hazards, and where it is necessary will use such force as the law clothes me with to drive any and all trespassers from my place.
    You come down on me with a threat that would do honor to Jack the Giant Killer. Now, sir, a fig for your threats. I do not fear you in the least. You say that "I hold your letter in judgment against you." Now should you happen to misplace or lose it, just call and I will furnish you with a copy, for I always keep them when writing to such stock. I am, sir, fully aware that the Indians are removed to the reservation by authority of the U.S. government, but, sir, I am not aware that they have ordered them and their stock removed upon the lands of citizens. If it has, please let me know and then I will know how to proceed. I am much obliged to you for your kind advice, and would inform you that when I am treated like a gentleman you nor any other person will have any reason to complain of me, but when I wish to take lessons upon the ways of [a] gentleman I shall apply to someone that has some qualifications aside from his badge of office to recommend him.
    I am now, sir, done with your letter and with this kind of a controversy unless you provoke it. I have another request to make of you, that is to cause the Indians to discontinue burying their dead upon my place immediately.
Joel Palmer
    Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 183.



Sir
    In my report of the 18th inst. I made a mistake as to the amount of indebtedness of the Indian Department for lumber purchased by Major Reynolds. Instead of three thousand as there stated, it is three hundred and seventy-nine 29/100 dollars.
    The amount of indebtedness of the Ind. Department in this district however I do not think will fall short of four thousand dollars for lumber, subsistence and services of employees to take charge of the friendly Indians.
    Enclosed please find receipts for the articles remaining on hand at this place, and for the tents shipped to this place by you to the care of Mr. Dunbar and received from him by me.
    Since my last report fifty-eight of the Coquille Indians have come in and encamped on the military reservation. I have Indians out hunting for the remainder of that tribe who I am satisfied will return to this place as soon as they are satisfied that they are safe from the murderous attacks of unprincipled white men.
    Yesterday an old squaw arrived from Rogue River, sent by the different bands of the coast Indians below this place, with a proposition from them to make peace on any terms the Americans may dictate. In a few days Col. Buchanan will start from this place to Rogue River for the purpose of treating with these Indians. From present appearances I am induced to think that he will succeed in restoring peace to this part [of] Oregon within the present month.
    This is written in haste to be sent by express. I shall give you a full report by the return steamer.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Supt. Office
            Dayton O.T.
P.S.
    I have concluded not to send the receipts mentioned over land as they may be lost, but will send them with my report.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 192.




Sir
    I have the honor of herewith transmitting to you the enclosed receipts for tents and other articles received by me at this place, as advised by my last communication.
    The amount of indebtedness for lumber furnished the friendly Indians on the military reserve by Brevet Major J. F. Reynolds is three hundred and seventy-nine 29/100 dollars, instead of three thousand as stated in my letter of the 18th April.
    From such information as I have been enabled to procure I now estimate the amount of outstanding debts against the Indian Department in this district at about four thousand dollars including the amount charged for rations furnished by the commanding officer of the military post at this place. It may exceed that amount.
    By an enumeration of the Indians found by me encamped on the military reserve on my arrival here, I find their number to be two hundred and seventy; that number has since been increased by the addition of ninety-nine Coquille Indians, who have been induced to return to the reserve, which makes a total of three hundred and sixty-nine.
    I found it necessary to furnish the Coquille Indians rations while being collected, and on the road to the reserve and since their arrival. This increase in my issues of provisions and to save transportation, made it necessary for me to purchase small supplies of provisions on the Coquille River and on the road to this place. I have also contracted for the purchase of five thousand lbs. of potatoes to be delivered to me at the place for the subsistence of the Indians, one thousand to have been received and issued.
    I have but a small quantity of flour on hand, not sufficient for another issue. If however the remaining four thousand lbs. of potatoes are delivered to me here as per contract, I shall be enabled to subsist the Indians until flour can be shipped by you to this place.
    An old Indian woman arrived here a short time since, bringing word that all the hostile bands of Indians below the Big Bend of Rogue River were anxious to make peace. Acting upon this information Col. Buchanan (who had come up to this place) started yesterday accompanied by two friendly Indians from this place and my interpreter Peter McGuire for Rogue River to hold a talk with the Indians above mentioned.
    An express arrived here from Rogue River today bringing news that the troops had had another fight with the Indians, killing six of them, with the loss of one man killed and one wounded, and that the majority of the Indians were not in favor of making peace, as stated by the old woman above mentioned.
    An Indian belonging to the Chetco band found prowling about Crescent City was sent to me a short time since by S. G. Whipple Esq., Spec. Sub-Ind. Agt. Klamath Reservation. As he belonged to a hostile band I turned him over to the commanding officer of the military post at this place.
    One of the Coquille Indians, who came in a few days since, was pointed out to me as one of the murderers of two white men who were killed on Coquille River two years ago. I caused him to be arrested and ironed and lodged in the guardhouse of the military post. His people acknowledged his guilt and expressed a willingness to testify against him and a desire that he should have a trial and be executed, as he was a bad man and might make trouble between the whites and Indians.
    Accordingly, the citizens of Port Orford by my request organized a court by electing a judge and empaneling a jury, and today gave the Indian, in the presence of the principal men of the different friendly bands of Indians encamped at this place, a fair and impartial trial.
    He confessed his guilt and implicated another Indian of the same tribe, who had been stopping in the village, but who fled to the woods as soon as he learned of the arrest of his accomplice.
    The prisoner will be hung in the presence of the Indians and citizens tomorrow at one o'clock.
    Three of the murderers were hung some time since at Coos Bay.
    In a conversation with Col. Buchanan upon the subject of an escort being furnished me for the removal of the friendly Indians collected at this point, he expressed a willingness to furnish one at the very earliest moment, but that the number of troops under his command was so small that none could be spared for that service until peace was made with the hostile Indians on Rogue River. He also stated that the escort could not be detained on that service longer than it would take to move the Indians in the most expeditious manner, except the guard that would be left with them after their arrival on the reservation.
    Allow me therefore to suggest that a number of beef cattle be purchased to be driven along to be slaughtered as required, so that they may not be detained to fish and hunt for their subsistence on the road.
    In anticipation of your adopting the above plan of furnishing subsistence to the Indians en route to the reservation, I have made arrangements to have the beeves furnished at this place or any other point on the route at 15 cts. per lb. at any time you may order me to close the contract.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Supt.'s Office
            Dayton
                O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 200.



Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Dear Sir,
            I trust you will excuse me for writing a few words to you touching the Supt. of Ind. Affairs for Oregon, Gen. Joel Palmer. An attempt to remove him is understood to be zealously urged by certain gentlemen who last year were connected with our legislative assembly. I am unwilling to judge of the motive that prompts to such efforts, but feel quite at liberty to say to you what I solemnly believe, that no good, either to the Indian Service, the public interests, or the Democratic Party, can or would come from gratifying the General's enemies (who are enemies of the red man) in his removal. On the contrary, I feel confident that, by his removal, injustice alike to personal and political truth would be commended, and an outrage upon a faithful officer encouraged. That should not be.
    Gen. Lane, our Delegate in Congress, may not feel at liberty to oppose Gen. P.'s removal--the movement for that purpose emanating, as it does, from members of the legislature--but I am sure if you will so far favor simple justice as to refer the subject of this letter to him with an inquiry as to my fitness from age, long residence in the country & knowledge of public affairs, to judge correctly of such matters, he will, I am sure, so reply to you as not to do harm to the cause of truth and correct motives in seeking its vindication. I have neither business nor personal connections with the Superintendent, and my social relations with him have for two years past been interrupted, but this shall not deter me from doing him justice. He has not desired me, nor has anyone on his behalf, to say a word to you in support of his acts--that, however, cannot deter me from saying that I think he has been a faithful public servant, and I hereby do so with as hearty good will as I have ever done any act of my life, either public or private.
    Saying this much, I do not assume to condemn others for expressing, either by petition or otherwise, a contrary opinion, but simply discharge a duty which longer omitted would leave me unsatisfied. I am unable to withhold, through mere personal history or other motive equally discreditable in the eyes of public justice, the expression of a trust which I honestly entered and which it is thought is shared in common with thousands of good men through the length & breadth of the Territory.
    It is not deemed necessary to go into a vindication of Gen. Palmer's acts as Superintendent. Those had & done by him through his own counsel and exercise of his discretion the past twelve months, so far as they have come under my notice (& I am a close observer of passing events) I am free to admit I warmly approve. Believe me, but a few months will pass away before a large share of those who now so warmly urge the General's removal will have occasion to regret that their energies were not devoted to objects of a higher public good. Time will vindicate Gen. P.'s policy and action touching Oregon Indian affairs.
    I have no further apology for addressing you this letter than to add that I could not longer remain silent, without reproaching myself for criminal indifference in seeming to sanction what I do not doubt would amount (if allowed) to gross private and public injustice.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 764-767.




Sir,
    I wish you to cause two blackboards constructed for the school house, say 3½ by 6 feet each, and have seats and desks constructed. Mr. Maulsby will assist and give directions as to form and number to be constructed. So soon as these be finished Mr. Maulsby will commence a school. Mr. VanSchuyver, who has been engaged as an assistant teacher, will also aid in the preparation of seats and desks. The name of each pupil, age, name of parents &c. will be recorded, and when so done suitable clothing will be provided for them. The quality and character of such will be as directed by the teachers, and any material required for this will be furnished by the agent in charge. To induce parents to take an interest in sending their children to school it will doubtless require great care and counsel on the part of the agent, and as the education of the children is the main lever by which we can hope to civilize these people, it is important that we get a right start. But whilst the general direction and arrangement in details of the matter should be left to the teachers to ensure a favorable result, they must have the aid and cooperation of the agent, and all persons upon the reservation. The salary of teachers will be such as to cover the cost of board at present; upon the return of Mr. Chamberlain he will take charge of and erect a school house for the use of Rogue Rivers and Umpquas, and any requisition for teams, tools &c. for such object will be filled by the agent in charge at Grand Ronde.
    I start for Portland tomorrow and shall probably return here Wednesday and very likely be at the Grand Ronde during the week, but it is by no means certain.
To
    R. B. Metcalfe, Esq.
        Sub-Ind. Agent
            Grand Ronde
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 134.




Sir
    Since my letter of 11th ultimo, matters have remained nearly in a state of status quo in this country; no decisive movement has been made either by the Indians or our troops from which an inference may be drawn as to the general result. The occasional murder of a single person and the driving off bands of horses by the Indians constitutes the extent of movements on their part, and the troops, regulars and volunteers are generally unsuccessful in attempts to find their whereabouts when in search of them. A forward movement into the Yakima country has been made by the regular troops under Col. Wright of the 9th Infty. In the meantime the volunteers have mostly left the field in the north and are now returning to their homes.
    They were so unfortunate a few days since whilst encamped five miles north of the Dalles to be robbed by the Indians of over two hundred head of horses which were appraised, I am told, at over sixty thousand dollars. Agent Thompson informs me that the friendly Indians at and near the Dalles of the Columbia still remain quiet and firm in their friendship. He has been instructed to form encampments at the fisheries near the Dalles so that the Indians may avail themselves of the benefit of the salmon, now about commencing to run. Salt and barrels have been forwarded for the purpose of putting up for winter use, but we shall I fear be disappointed in obtaining the requisite supply of seines and fishing tackling [sic] which I had ordered from the East by express. Still the Indians will be able to take large quantities in their accustomed way. No reliable information has been received of the condition of the friendly Cayuses, Walla Wallas and Umatillas, since they joined the Nez Perces' camp. The citizens at and near the vicinity of the Dalles appear to be in greater dread of certain organized bands of whites engaged in and about that place in acts of violence, plunder and robbery than from the attacks of hostile Indians.
    In Southern Oregon matters remain nearly as by previous advices. Agent Olney, however, had arrived at Port Orford and has taken the census of the Indians at that camp, numbering 240 souls. The remaining Coquilles (who had once been at the fort but took fright and ran away, were pursued by volunteers and many of them killed) were on their way back to Port Orford under an escort of volunteers. On a recent visit to Fort Vancouver, Genl. Wool informed me that if there was good reasons to believe that peace could be obtained by negotiations in Southern Oregon, he would when consummated furnish two, if necessary three, companies of regular troops to protect Indians and citizens. Having long entertained an opinion that such an object could be attained, I have determined to proceed to that district and shall start in the course of eight or ten days, probably taking the route of the Cañon, Grave Creek Hills, Meadows, Big Bend of Rogue River and thence to Port Orford. Sub-Agent Metcalfe will accompany me to Grave Creek Hills, whence he will proceed to Illinois River with a view of effecting a cessation of hostilities in that quarter, and the removal of those Indians (Jake's band) to Port Orford, where if possible I propose concentrating all the bands and then proceed with them to the Coast Reservation under escort of the promised troops.
    There appears a calm among our citizens at this time in relation to the Grand Ronde Reservation; one-half of the sixty men hired as citizen guards have been discharged, the remaining force are now engaged in the construction of the line of fence at the entrance of the reservation. The unusual amount of rainy weather the past month has retarded materially the progress of that, and of the work on the reservation, as also the opening the road to the coast, but it is now going forward.
    We are constantly getting accessions to the number of Indians on the reservation. Their aggregate by a statement of the sub-agent in charge reached 1557 on the 18th inst. The necessity for confining the Indians within the limits of the reservation and the withholding of firearms from them has thrown a heavy expense upon the Superintendency in subsisting them. The contract price of fresh beef delivered slaughtered on the reservation is eight cents per pound, that of flour three dollars and twenty-five cents per hundred; sugar, coffee and tea are necessarily furnished them as a part of their rations, but in a limited quantity. We are now fitting out a party of Indians with their families under charge of a local agent to proceed to the coast on a hunting and fishing excursion, portions of whom will be engaged in opening the road from the Grand Ronde purchase to the coast and thence to Siletz River. It is expected that this arrangement will familiarize them with that part of the reservation and will enable them to obtain sufficiency of their accustomed food and thereby materially lessen the expenses of the government in future. It has been deemed by me important in order to carry out as fully as practicable the policy in colonizing those Indians, to construct dwellings, shops, an agency building &c., among which, in addition to the temporary buildings for the Umpqua and portions of the Indians of this valley who were removed during the winter, we have the following: One farm agency house 16x20 feet, 2 rooms and one story high, design ultimately to be an L to a larger building. One frame dwelling house for physician 16x20, two rooms, one story not yet quite finished. One frame store and warehouse 20x40 feet, two rooms, one ware room and one distributing with an addition of 12x40 feet, two rooms. One frame tin shop 18x20, one story. One frame blacksmith shop, nearly complete, 18x36. One frame school house, 24x50 feet, one story high, one log wagon maker's shop, heretofore used as smith shop. The siding and roofing for these buildings as well as for the temporary Indians' houses and the boarding houses for employees were split in the adjacent forests. Those of the permanent buildings are neat and put on in a substantial manner. None of these buildings are, however, fully finished on the inside, and an additional expense will necessarily be incurred in putting on a coat of paint to preserve the work. These permanent improvements, in addition to the necessity for immediate use, tended greatly to satisfy the whims and superstitious notions of the Indians and convince them that we were really acting for their good.
    Several other buildings are much needed, but I have deemed it better to await the completion of a sawmill before constructing them. The removal of the Umpquas and Rogue River Indians to this reservation, and the fact that the greater proportion of cereal grains for their use must be grown upon and in the vicinity of this purchase, and the desire of many of those Indians to have buildings erected in the neighborhood, has induced me to take steps for the erection of one sawmill and one flouring mill of sufficient capacity to cut the lumber and manufacture the flour for all the Indians located in the vicinity.
    And in order to secure a quantity of water to propel both of those mills I have contracted for the construction of a mill dam below the forks of two creeks which necessarily involves a heavier expense than across either one of the branches, but there is an insufficient supply of water in either singly for both the mills. From this dam it will require a race about five hundred yards in length to the point where the mills will be erected, the upper end of which will require a cut of seven feet.
    I have contracted with responsible persons to construct the dam, dig the race and erect the sawmill complete for seven thousand dollars, to be in readiness for running by the 1st of October next. A copy of the contract with specifications for the work will be forwarded to your office at an early day. The cost of this dam & mills is above my former estimates for work of a similar character; the amount estimated for the erection of mills for the Molalla tribes may be applied to this object should that treaty be ratified. The following mills will be erected by day work under the supervision of the Department but will not be pushed to completion until after the sawmill is finished.
To Hon.
    Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Indian Affairs
            Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 135-137.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 756-763.



Dr. E. P. Drew
    Sir
        The Indians that you left here with the expectation of their removal to the Umpqua on the return of the wagons have left the reserve and refuse to comply with your instructions. As soon as you had got out of sight beyond the sand hills, a delegation of the old settlers crossed the bay and had a very long talk with the natives. They say that their business was to buy some canoes, as they brought one back with them to town. Whether this party had anything to do with regard to influencing the Indians to take the stand they have since done, I cannot tell. Some of the Indians commenced removing their property that afternoon, and the next morning they were all gone, some to parts unknown and others to the second point below town, just above their old camping place. The Indians are evidently acting under the influence and advice of the party styling themselves the "old settlers." The Indians say that they do not want to have anything to do with you, and if Palmer wishes anything of them he will have to come himself. They also say that according to the treaty they cannot be removed until next summer. Their manner of conversation shows conclusively that they have been counseled by the "old settlers" in all matters pertaining to their removal. I am unable to do anything towards starting them for the Umpqua and think that you will have to come down with authority to enforce their immediate removal before anything further can be done. I understand that your instructions from Gen. Palmer do not allow you to remove the Indians against their will. If such is the case I hardly know how you will make out.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 225.



Dear sir,
    From the news I get by this steamer I am induced to go at once to Port Orford by return trip and therefore wish you to remain at the Grand Ronde until Mr. Raymond's arrival, when you will turn over to him all public property belonging to that sub-agency, or which may be in your hands not required for the service to which you are herein assigned, and his receipt will be your voucher for the same. You will then proceed to visit such of the Indians as may be found in the Rogue River District and express to them my wish that they at once go to Port Orford, where they will join the emigrating party and proceed to the Coast Reservation under an escort of U.S. troops. After ascertaining their whereabouts, and if practicable visiting them in person and giving such directions as you may deem proper to accomplish the object, you will visit the Indians, if there be any, in the Illinois Valley, which though in the Rogue River District may require a separate consideration. The known hostility of Old John and a part of his band and the fact that they were the first to take up arms against our people--though they may have cause of complaint--requires an unconditional surrender of that chief and of such of his men as were engaged in the first outbreak on Rogue River and Jump-off Joe Creek. The whole tribe must be required to give up their arms and go and remain at such place as may be required. The chief and parties accused may be guaranteed a fair trial by a court martial of U.S. officers, or by the civil authorities as may be determined upon. They may be assured, also, of the protection from lawless persons by U.S. troops, and hereafter secured in their just rights, to secure which they must deliver up all firearms or other weapons at such place and at such time as you may agree upon, and proceed with you or such discreet persons as you may direct, to Port Orford, or at such point as the U.S. troops may be stationed, and be subject to such orders as may be given touching their travel to and departure from such camp. In other words, it is the object to close the war in Southern Oregon, and every energy of those entrusted with the management of Indian affairs in the Territory must be devoted to the consummation of that object. The safety of the settlement, the peace of the country and the voice of humanity demand that it should be done. Though we might conquer a peace, it would be at the sacrifice of many valuable lives and at an enormous expense to the government and a blight upon the prosperity of our Territory. And whilst peace is important and desirable, it by no means follows that we should secure it on discreditable terms, but demand a rigid compliance with such reasonable and just terms as will be likely to ensure a continuation of it in future and giving such guarantees of protection as the circumstances in which you are placed will warrant. The only hope of securing peace is by removing the entire Indian population from that country and in thus attaining it we are promised a sufficient number of troops to fully guarantee any terms requisite to ensure their safety. In my arrival at Port Orford I will proceed to Rogue River and advance as far into the country in the direction of the Meadows or into the Illinois Valley as practicable, meeting the Indians on the way and with such an escort as will be likely to secure a safe passage to Port Orford. Captain Rinearson will be directed to proceed to Port Orford with thirty horses to aid in the transportation of subsistence and baggage from that point to the Coast Reservation, the saddles for which go down by this steamer, as does also six tons of flour. I gave instructions to Agent Ambrose to send a messenger to George and Limpy and direct them to go to Port Orford, or if they preferred it to Fort Lane, but that I preferred them to go to the former place.
    You understand the object to be obtained, peace in Southern Oregon. There may be those who will oppose the policy of negotiating, but it is useless to try to please all. If peace is not made before the drought comes on, the entire country is ruined. There is more at stake than the gratification of satisfying the whims of fault-finders. The lives of our citizens will be sacrificed unless the war can be closed, and I cannot but believe that all good men, lovers of justice and those desiring the real welfare of the country, will approve the course.
    I have instructed Captain Rinearson at once to dismiss the men under his charge, retaining Mr. Fleming, Mr. Cluff and three others of the men of his selection to aid him in taking the horses to Port Orford. Mr. C. Taylor has also been directed to purchase twenty-five horses. I desire you to turn over to Captain Rinearson any horse on hand belonging to the Indian Department which with those to be purchased will be branded and taken to Port Orford.
    Should you find it advisable to take any Indians with you from the Rogue River camp as messengers, it would be well to allow them to carry guns--but they might have revolvers if deemed perfectly trusty. Have a keen lookout for them, however. I would think it well to have at least one white man with you. Be discreet, run no risk, but try and meet me at Port Orford.
    Should you need funds for your traveling expenses, call upon Mr. Blanchard, who will advance you such amount as may be necessary, provided he has any on hand. The recent heavy expenditures may, however, have nearly exhausted the funds on hand--but remittance is anticipated [in] the next mail. I will add, in conclusion, that I much rely upon you for the prompt and discreet performance of the important duties herein assigned, and hope to meet you, well and hearty, at Port Orford or vicinity.
To
    R. B. Metcalfe Esq.
        Sub-Ind. Agent
            Grand Ronde Reservation O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 138-140.



Dear sir,
    I have directed Mr. Metcalfe to turn over to you all the public property in his hands not required for such service as he is assigned to. You will receipt to him for such articles as may be turned over, being particular and enumerating each article, and so arrange the memorandums as to enable you to know precisely every article, however trifling, belonging to the government. You will then take charge of the entire business of that agency, turning over to the respective mechanics and farmers the tools which they may require for efficient service, taking their receipt for the same; all property should be called in and an investing [sic--"inventory"] of each article turned over to the respective employees taken so that you can show it any time in whose hands the same may be.
    Any property not required for the use of the respective mechanics, farmers, physician, superintendent of farming, teachers &c. you will secure by returning in your custody and using it only for the benefit of the service. Each employee should be held to a strict accountability and required to perform the services for which he may have been engaged--and a failure so to do should be reported to the Supt. office--with the facts connected therewith.
    There will be in the service the following employees:

1. One	Blacksmith	For the Willamette tribes
1. One	Carpenter	"      "             "           do.
1. One	Superintendent Farming Operations	"      "             "           do.
1. One	Farmer	For Willamette tribes
1. One	Blacksmith	For Rogue Rivers & Umpquas

        (Jointly working in same shop with Willamette tribes)

1. One	Farmer	For Rogue Rivers
1. One	Farmer	For Umpquas
1. One	Tinner	For all the tribes jointly
1. One	Physician	"     "     "     do.       "
1.	Wagon Maker	"     "     "     do.       "
2. Two	Men	For the agency in charge of teams and whatever may be required; getting materials &c.
1. One	Carpenter	For Umpquas
1. One	Carpenter	For Rogue Rivers
2. Two	Carpenters	For agency

    The physician will be allowed a hospital steward. The supt. of farming operations for Willamette tribes will be allowed to employ and hire under his control four Indians, and each of the three farmers will be allowed two Indians; the compensation for Indian service will be at present $1.50 per day. Each smith and carpenter will be allowed to take one apprentice (an Indian boy) and the tinner two--each one to be clothed and rationed at the expense of their tribe to which he belongs, the articles being furnished by the person in whose charge they are on the approval of the agent, and at the end of each quarter obtaining a certificate of the head chief of the tribe for the articles furnished.
    The salary of Indian employees to be paid out of the annuity funds from whose benefit they labored. There will be a commissary and one assistant commissary for the agency, whose duty will be to receive and ration out the provisions in accordance with instructions of agent. The Indians who are engaged in labor for themselves or employed on the farms or elsewhere will receive as a ration:
    One pound, two ounces flour; one and one quarter pounds of fresh beef or three quarters of a pound of salt meat per day; with twelve pounds sugar, six pounds rice and 2 quarts salt to the one hundred rations, six pounds coffee or one and one half pounds of tea the one hundred rations.
    Those who do not labor will receive:
    One pound flour and one of beef only and no sugar or coffee but salt as in the other cases--all above the age of twelve years are to be considered so entitled to full rations; below that age one half in proportion to size.
    Teams, tools and farming implements will be turned over to the respective persons in charge of the business department and they will be held accountable for their proper application and security of the same. The clerk in the Superintendent office will furnish from the treaty book a copy of each treaty, under which employees are in service to the agent in charge. The agent will encourage the Indians to solicit a tract of land upon which to erect his dwelling and commence cultivating the soil, and where tracts are to be designated for the Willamette tribes the agent and supt. of farming operations shall act in conjunction, and for other tribes the agent and farmers--but each tract designated before regarded as permanent shall be approved by the Supt. Ind. Affairs, but temporary locations may be assigned by the agent and supt. of farming and farmers as above.
    It will be the duty of the farmers to assist each Indian who wishes to cultivate the soil or in selecting suitable ground, in erecting his building, in making his fence, cultivating his land &c. to devote his services exclusively to the benefit of the tribe for whom he is employed, to secure the cultivation of crops for the joint benefit of old and young and indigent persons, by means of his own labor and contribution of the members of the tribe severally in proportion to their ability to labor, explaining to them the necessity of this as a contingent resort, but urging individual action so as to secure support for their respective families.
    The farmers will assist in planing [sic] their fields, preparing their tools and have a general supervision of the farming commenced on.
    The carpenters for the respective tribes will assist in erecting their houses, making furniture and doing what may be required to promote the general welfare and prosperity of the tribe.
    The smiths and tinner will bestow their services exclusively to the benefit of the tribes upon the reservation and shall furnish to the individual members necessary articles in their line upon the requisition of the agent in charge or such articles as may be required by the mechanics and farmers &c.
    The agent in charge will have a general supervision over all the business department, and see that each person performs faithfully his part. Monthly reports will be made by him to the Superintendent office--giving in detail the condition of the agency, number of employees, the manner in which they have discharged their duties, amount of labor performed, improvements made, health of the people &c.
    There will be one teacher (school teacher) for the Willamette tribes and one for the Rogue Rivers and Umpquas (jointly). The teachers will have the direction of those schools, selection of books &c., and make requisition upon the agent for such clothing as may be necessary to comfortably clothe the pupils. They shall allow such awards for merit to scholars as will ensure attendance and distribute presents to encourage the children to attend school.
    At the end of each month a settlement will be made with contractors for furnishing beef and flour, and the agent in charge will give a certificate for the amount forwarded.
    The agent will settle with and pay for all Indian labor performed on the reservation, but mechanics, farmers and salary employees will be paid at the Superintendent office upon a certificate of the agent showing the time of service, date of commencement and ending and rate of pay.
    Requisitions for supplies will be made on the Supt.'s office and forwarded in time to meet the necessity of the articles needed. The persons contracted with to erect buildings, to plan land &c. will be required to perform faithfully and in a workmanlike manner whatever may have been agreed upon, and it is the duty of the agent in charge to supervise such work, giving a certificate of service &c.
    The wagon maker will prepare materials in advance to be seasoned fit for use, and perform whatever duty may be required in his line, making or mending wagons, plows, barrows &c.
    The mechanics, farmers and other persons having charge of any branch of business will report to the agent the condition of the respective departments, monthly.
To
    W. H. Raymond Esq.
        Sub-Ind. Agent
            Grand Ronde O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 140-143.



Sir,
    By directions of the Superintendent of Indian Affairs, you will at once discharge from service the remainder of the men now constituting the guard company under your command at the Grand Ronde Reservation. On the same being done you will render to the office a complete muster roll of the said company, duly certified. The public property remaining in the hands of Mr. John Fleming as quartermaster and commissary of the company will be transferred to the sub-agent at the Grand Ronde, taking dup. receipts therefor in the name of the Supt.
    The oxen, wagons, chains &c. received of Mr. Lamson will be brought down to this Superintendency:
    The instructions of the Superintendent, which were this evening read to you in detail, touching the necessary preparations to be made in going to Port Orford District with a party of men and animals, will be embodied in another communication. It is necessary however to remark herein that the Superintendent has designated Mr. Fleming, Mr. Cluff and Mr. Smith to accompany you, with three others of your own selection of the men in your company.
To
    Captain J. S. Rinearson
        Commanding Company Armed Citizens
            Grand Ronde Reservation
                now at Dayton
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 143-144.






Gen. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Sir
            Your favor of the 15th ult. came to hand this evening & I hasten a reply.
    Immediately on the reception of your instructions under date of Apr. 13th & 14th I proceeded to Coos Bay & made the requisite arrangements for the removal of the Coos Indians to Umpqua. All of Jim's band & a great part of Taylor's were ready & willing to come up & after a "short talk" will give their consent to remove provided I could make arrangements to pack or team some of their goods up the beach. I engaged four teams, thinking they would be sufficient to bring all that was requisite. I accordingly had the goods loaded & found a part must be left for the return teams.
    With some (135) one hundred & thirty-five I left Coos, telling those left behind, about 98 in all, that the next day the teams would return for them. They said it was good & they would be ready to come up. I left Mr. Scholfield in charge to attend to their removal. Enclosed please find a letter received from him a few days subsequent. The letter explains itself. Some men at the bay have told the Indians not to come up & no doubt officers in the volunteer company there, as some of the Indians inform me.
    I shall return immediately to the bay & if possible ferret out evidence &c. &c. against those white men.  I know them all--proof is what I want. I think no trouble need be entertained in regard to their removal. They will all come.
    I have now in hand at the agency some (7) seven tons of flour, which I purchased at 6½ cts. delivered. It may be requisite to purchase a small quantity of beef, provided the canoes cannot be got up, as with them they could fish.
    Instruct me in regard to the Indian squaws living with white men. There is at Coos Bay three Coquille squaws & five Coos Bay squaws residing with the whites. There has been no trouble with the Indians within this dist. excepting that made by the whites. Were there nothing but Indians to deal with the task of the squaws would be meager. By the next express I will give you a more detailed account of affairs here.
(P.S.) This encampment now numbers in all two hundred & sixty-five (265). About ninety-eight (98) left at Coos Bay yet--I think to go down tomorrow & take a few canoes on board of the steamer Newport, which is bound to Umpqua from Coos. The expense will be trifling.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 234.


    The report [of the Oregon Superintendent of Indian Affairs] further states that "these outrages and those in Southern Oregon have created a state of feeling among our citizens almost uncontrollable. Active operations were on foot to gather in the scattering bands upon the Grand Ronde and Coast Reservation, but this unexpected outburst of popular frenzy came well nigh upsetting and defeating the whole project."
    The order for furnishing troops to guard and protect this reservation could not be complied with. A lieutenant and twenty privates were all that could be obtained, and the threatening attitude of the community caused apprehensions of a general and combined attack upon the camps of friendly Indians located at the Grand Ronde, and the slaughtering or driving into a hostile position of all who might be residing in that valley. Consequently a force of armed citizens were organized and placed upon the eastern line of the reservation, thus cutting off all communication between the settlements and the Indians. Instructions were also issued for the construction of a fence from mountain to mountain, as a line of demarcation across which none could pass, which course it is thought will effectually protect these friendly Indians.
    In the meantime, active measures were taken to collect all the scattering bands--many of whom were found to be in a destitute condition, and if left to themselves, would, most assuredly, have gone over to the hostile tribes--and place them on this reservation. Among those who were provided for are named the Upper Klamaths, who have for several years past been in the habit of residing in this valley during the winter season. With the exception of a few families, scattered along the Columbia River below the mouth of the Willamette, all the bands of this valley have been placed on the Grand Ronde purchase, together with those of the Umpqua Valley and three hundred and ninety-one friendly Rogue River Indians. The confidence of these Indians, it is stated, though shaken at times, still appears to be unbounded, and they cheerfully come forward and deliver up their arms of every description, and seem to be willing to conform to any rules which may be imposed.
    No recent intelligence had been received from the Port Orford district. Agent Olney went down on the steamer on the 28th of March last, with instructions to collect the Indians at an encampment near the fort, and, as soon as an escort could be obtained, to remove them to the Coast Reservation.
"Department News: Interior Department," Daily Union, Washington, D.C., June 7, 1856, page 3




Sir
    I arrived at this place on the 11th inst., but for lack of mail facilities I could not address you earlier. I have had no opportunity of communicating with the Indians since my arrival, although I am more convinced than ever that they desire peace. I have been informed by persons who were at the meadows during the last engagement & that the Indians called for quarter and were very anxious to have a talk. In my opinion immediate steps should be taken to collect them together and place them on a reservation. They are now scattered over a large extent of country, and it will require some little time and trouble to gather them together, but justice as well to the Indians as to the whites requires it should be done. Unless it should be done this valley will in a manner be nearly ruined. Small marauding parties of Indians who have become discouraged at ever accomplishing a peace will set to, to do all the mischief they can. A few days ago on Butte Creek a small band made their appearance, capturing some stock and destroying some more, and like outrages may be expected all summer if some pains be not taken to collect the Indians and place them on a reservation. In fact they have no other means of living than by pillage; chased from their homes like wild animals into the mountains, it becomes a denier resort ["last resort"] with them. I know of no way of collecting these wandering savages, except "Sam" and a few of his people be brought here to search them up. It is useless for the military authorities to endeavor to do it. In the first place they cannot find them; secondly they are so distrustful of the whites of treachery they would not stop to talk. In every engagement lately the Indians called for quarter, and none was granted them. Now it strikes me the policy of our government would be to collect these people together, and most certainly humanity as well as the best interest of the country alike require it should be done and that too at an early a day as possible. Both whites and Indians desire peace. The country is tired of war, but if the present opportunity be lost to make peace the season of the year is fast approaching that a few Indians can destroy vast quantities of property and many valuable lives will be sacrificed in consequence.
    In the want of your arduous duties requiring your attention at the Superintendency, I think it would be well to send Mr. Metcalfe with a few of Sam's Indians for that purpose. If I had a few Indian messengers I would make the effort to collect these scattering bands, but I have not got them, nor can they be obtained here. I have not heard from Capt. Smith since my arrival. Rumor says he is making a treaty with the coast Indians. As soon as I adjust the unsettled business of the agency here, I will repair to the Superintendency. I am undecided yet whether I shall go to the States this spring or fall. I shall this spring if I can.
I was told a few days ago by a Mr. Smiley Harris that he had received a letter from a person at the Grand Ronde Reservation saying that he intended to remain there no longer than an opportunity offered for him to kill "Sambo." The individual was a volunteer, was in the fight at Butte Creek on the 8th Oct. 1855. I could not learn his name.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 216.  No. 222 is a shorter copy.




Sir,
    Considerable complaint is made by the Indians now on the military reserve that white men are permitted to visit the Indian village and often remain after night violating the persons of the women, and citizens allege that those claiming to be in the employ of the Indian Department not only do not seek to prevent such annoyance, but encourage it by clandestinely going to the lodges and by their licentious conduct give reason for Indians to believe that it is for their benefit and use of their women that these Indians are located here, and that these many hangers-on whose sole objects appears to [be to] vie each other in actions of debasement. Since my arrival I have had good reasons to believe many of these charges well founded, and I have now to direct that you will dismiss from the service all persons who have been guilty of cohabiting with their Indian women since their location upon the military reserve.
    No countenance will be given by those in the service of the Indian Department encouraging such licentious and disgusting practices--and agents will cause the arrest of all persons guilty of attempts to gratify their animal passions by taking advantages of the weak and defenseless condition of the Indians, who are made dependent upon and rely for subsistence and protection upon the agent of the government. Should an employee or other white person choose a woman from among these bands and marry her in accordance with the laws of the country, no obstacle will be thrown in the way, provided it be assented to on the part of the band to whom she belongs, but unless by such marriage and the procurement of a certificate in writing from the party authorized by the laws of the country to solemnize matrimony, it will be prohibited by the agent, and the persons attempting to enforce such acts will be arrested as disturbers of the peace and unfit to reside in an Indian country.
    The good morals of a community, the welfare of these Indians, and the peace and safety of all parties demand that those licentious actions should be prohibited, and the energies of the government officials should be exerted in its abrogation, instead of countenancing it by precept and example; no person will be returned in the service found guilty of such practices.
    I am unable to see the necessity of employing more than one person to issue rations and attend to other duties of camp.
To
    N. Olney Esq.
        Indian Agent Port Orford
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 151.




To Genl. Joel Palmer Supt. Ind. Affairs O.T.
Dear Sir
    I am instructed by Captain W. H. Harris, O.V., to inform the Genl. that he would be ready at short notice to furnish an escort of twenty to thirty men for the purpose of escorting the Indians to the Reserve.
    Capt. Harris sends his compliments to the Genl., and as he is informed the Genl. stands in need of an escort in moving the Indians to the Reserve, and is confident that his company can be relied on with as much confidence as any soldiers in the country, he hopes the Genl. will, should any volunteer companies be selected for the duty, accept of and give the preference to his (Capt. W. H. Harris') company, Coos Co. Vols., in the forming of an escort for the above mentioned purpose.
To Genl. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs O.T.
        Port Orford
            O.T.
P.S. Please to send word whether the services of the "Co." Coos Co. Vols. will be accepted of or required for the above mentioned service by the return express.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 201.



Hon. Joel Palmer
    Dr. Sir, I wrote you some time since relative to a small band of Indians in this neighborhood. Since that I have learned that four have given J. P. Day charge of them. There was six in number in the first place but now there is but four. One died from sickness & the other (a man) a few days since was murdered in cold blood & the others are threatened. Now sir if you want them taken to the reservation in your part of the country I would like to get the contract. My family are at Col. Farris' on the Rickreall & I will start soon after them with a team. I will bring the four to your place or take them to the reserve for one hundred dollars & you bear their expenses or I will bear their expenses & take them for one hundred & fifty dollars. If you conclude to let me have the contract let me know by return mail, as I will [leave] by the first of June for my family.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 219.



Sir
    I herewith enclose requisition for articles required at this agency, which you will please bill as soon as practicable. I shall probably send a team down to Dayton tomorrow or next day as some of the articles are required for immediate use.
To
    Gen. Joel Palmer
        Supt. Ind. Affairs
            Dayton
                O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 204.



Sir:
    By direction of Joel Palmer, Superintendent--who is now at Port Orford on official business--I herewith enclose contracts entered into with Davidson & Beatty and Rowell & McKune for supplies of beef & flour for Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation.
To
    Charles E. Mix, Esq.
        Actg. Commissioner &c.
            Washington
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 773-774.



Sir,
    Your letter of 20th inst., making inquiry whether we would accept of the services of the Coos County volunteers as an escort in removing Indians to the reservation, has been received, and in reply I would state that it is not expected any movement will be made until the war is closed in Southern Oregon, so as to afford U.S. troops not only for an escort but to establish permanently a military post upon the reservation.
    Whilst I thank you, and through you the captain and the members of this company, for their kindness and disinterested offers of aid in carrying out the policy of the government in concentrating the Indian tribes upon a reservation, I feel satisfied that the interests of the settlers would be promoted and the prosperity of the country generally advanced by allowing those who have been called into the volunteer service to return to their various avocations at the earliest moment. There is now a favorable prospect of closing the war, and the number of regular U.S. troops in service will I think be abundantly sufficient to afford protection to the citizens and keep the Indians in proper restraint upon the reservation.
    The Coquille Indians, unless it be fragments of families, are now all upon the military reservation at this place, and from advices just received but little fears need be apprehended from the Indians in your immediate vicinity. I regret, however, to hear that there should be found persons advising those Indians to disobey the instructions of their agent by refusing to join the encampment at Umpqua City. No other construction can well be put upon that refusal but a meddlesome interference by some evil-disposed person whose inconsiderate acts might result in consequences to the community, the end of which cannot be foreseen. It is hoped all persons will give their aid and countenance to enable the agents in the service of the government to carry out their instructions and subserve the interest of the people and the cause of humanity.
To W. H. Harris
    Capt. Comp. Volunteers
        per
            Wm. H. Packwood
                Lieut. Compy. Vol.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 152.




To Genl. Joel Palmer Supt. Ind. Affairs O.T.
Dear Sir
    Yours of the 23rd inst., in reply to one from me on the 20th inst. (written by instruction of Capt. Harris) has been received. The captain (W. H. Harris) & his company made acquainted with the Genl.'s reasons for not accepting of the services of the Co., Coos Co. Vols.--the policy of the Genl. in wishing not to remove the Indians until he is fully able to keep them on a reservation by having U.S. troops on the Reserve--the Genl.'s cause for not accepting our services and policy for the removal of the Indians has been properly appreciated both by Capt. W. H. Harris & his company, who have & hold themselves ready to assist the Genl. in his efforts to concentrate the Indians in a reserve, and although our services have not been required as soldiers, as citizens the Genl. will find a hearty support in this, for the impartial and just manner in which the Genl. has administered the Ind. affairs of this O.T. But we do not mean the above to endorse or uphold the acts or the means used by some of the Genl.'s assistants in carrying out the Genl.'s instructions.
    The last clause in the Genl.'s letter alluding to evil-disposed persons was a clause which I did not properly understand. Capt. Harris thinks it best to inquire of the Genl. to whom allusions were made, the nature of the charges &c., for he feels satisfied that no transaction or bad advice has been given to the Indians here. The Genl. will I have no doubt inform me on the subject as from the nature of the clause, above alluded to, I may be one of the persons alluded to. If such should be the case I expect to be allowed the privilege of showing such accusations be false. The Genl. will oblige Capt. Harris by sending in return mail an explanation as to who are the persons alluded to as he conceives it his duty to prevent such advice being given to the Indians & to arrest all such offenders.
To Genl Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs O.T.
        Port Orford, O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 212.



Gen. Joel Palmer
    Respected Sir
        Not knowing whether I will see you again before your departure from this place on your return north, I embrace this method of communicating with you, my object being to apply for a situation in the Indian Department.
    If you succeed in concluding a treaty you will undoubtedly require the services of several persons on the reservation. Considering that you would prefer persons in whom you can place confidence and who are acquainted with and have the confidence of the Indians, and being certain that the service would be congenial with my taste, I take the liberty to address you on the subject. You are to a certain degree acquainted with my sentiments with regard to the Indians. As to compensation anything reasonable will be satisfactory.
    For character, for honesty, integrity, ability etc. I refer you to Capt. A. J. Smith, U.S.A.
    Hoping that you will give my application a favorable consideration I have the honor to
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 392.



Sir
    Your favor of May 23rd by last express did not come to hand in time to answer by return & I improve this the first opportunity since.
    A portion of the Coos band of Indians yet remain at the Bay. I shall again visit that point & be able to induce them to come to Umpqua, I think, yet have delayed going down immediately in order to permit the excitement to cool off a little inasmuch as there seemed no object in pressing the matter. They can all be collected in a few days & be moved to Umpqua.
    Six canoes came up in the steamer Newport for which transportation I paid $100. It was a big bill for a small affair, yet by having canoes they are enabled to fish & supersede the necessity of purchasing beef, which is no small item.
    Enclosed you will please find a bill of Boyd & Blakely, editors of Umpqua Gazette, amounting to $3375. I was induced to pay the same & took duplicate receipts in your name for the same according to instructions sent from your office to Boyd. The vouchers are subject to your order. Boyd has left for the States; may he have a quick passage & never be induced to return.
    No news of importance by today's mail; business is entirely prostrated in this section. The only question asked is when is the war to end.
    The train for Port Orford passed down yesterday. I hope that you will be able to perfect a treaty with all the tribes below. Should you desire my services at Port Orford in the removal of those Indians I hold myself in readiness. Affairs can be arranged here with Mr. Clark and not materially injure the service in Umpqua Dist. by a few weeks absence. Everything here is quiet & all the tribes are perfectly satisfied & agreeable to any arrangement the Department may desire to make.
    I send by this express a few of the Oregon papers--persons like to see them, often if they contain no news.
    Hoping to see you at Umpqua before you leave the coast,
Gen. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Port Orford
    P.S. I am again forced to say that a remittance would be exceedingly acceptable at this time. There is no money to be obtained in the country & cash is good at par. Thinking you might intercept funds on the steamer, I have been induced to mention the matter.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 233.




Sir,
    Whilst here yesterday I made inquiry of you whether you would feel justified in delivering into my hands the female adults and children prisoners now in the custody of volunteers under your command, and being answered in the negative I did not feel free to urge such measure. Since you left, it has been a subject of reflection to me, and I therefore bring the matter to your further action.
    The tribes to which those prisoners belong are now in the custody of the troops who have been detailed to escort them to the reservation, and as the husbands of those women are already in custody, no other prisoners can be induced to come in by retaining them in your camp. The officers in the Indian Department, being the legitimate persons to whom the class of persons referred to be surrendered, it might leave you less embarrassed and economize the expenses of the government in their removal by turning them over at this point, that they might all be removed to the reservation together. It has been customary when prisoners have been taken to turn them over to the Indian agents or Superintendent of Indians, not only by officer in command of companies and battalions but by the executive of the Territory, and such will undoubtedly be the result of those in your hands should they be delivered to his excellency George L. Curry. I refer of course to such as are not found guilty of committing capital or other offenses, demanding a hearing before a civil tribunal, or those cleared by court martial.
    The presence of those women and children in your camp, whilst in the enemy's country, cannot but lessen your efficiency in the service, and should an emergency arise by which any in command might feel justified in putting them to death to avoid their escape, as in the event of an attack by hostile tribes as indicated by you in your conversation yesterday, it would seriously militate against the reputation of troops who have responded so nobly to the call of the Governor, and place a weapon in the hands of his enemy. We as a people and a Territory have a reputation to maintain, and as citizen soldiers it behooves all to not sully it by acts the evidence of which may be so entirely complied with [sic]. The credit and applause due you as soldiers and defenders of the rights of our country will be none the less full by surrendering the Indians here than in the Willamette Valley, and should you require it I will give a certificate of the number and character of prisoners delivered over.
To Maj. Wm. Latshaw
    Comd. Battalion Oregon Volunteers
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 153.



To Geo. L. Curry
    Governor of Oregon
        Respected sir
            Today I will start from this place in company with Mr. Bob Metcalfe and two of old Sam's Indians from the Coast Reservation to the Meadows. I am satisfied that we can make a good treaty with George, Limpy and the Cow Creek Indians and I think all of the Indians in Southern Oregon. I have no doubt but the war is now about to close in this section of the country.
    Should a treaty not be made I wish you would appoint company officers for three or four companies besides Captain Barnes' spy company and notify me immediately. Should anything occur I will inform you of it.
Oregon State Archives, Yakima and Rogue River War, Document File B, Reel 3, Document 822.



Sir
    Since I last wrote you nothing has transpired worthy of note. No Indians have been seen or heard of in this valley. I am well satisfied they have fled to the mountains, and are lying in wait endeavoring to see you or someone empowered by you to give them peace. Nothing has been heard of Capt. Smith since my arrival in this valley. If the Capt. was here some efforts could be made to collect the Indians together, but it is useless to do so until there is a proper military force in the valley. As my term of office expires this month, should no one come to relieve me I will leave what public property is in my charge in the care of Jno. Swinden, who will be found at my place of residence, and who will deliver it to any person authorized to receive it. Owing to the inconveniences, and also the dangers of traveling between this valley and the Superintendency, I have determined on taking stage and going by way of San Francisco, at which place I can leave my family until I repair to Dayton to render an account of my stewardship before I leave for the States. I have not yet succeeded in closing the business of this agency, but will try and settle it all before I leave. Some few of the persons to whom the government was indebted have left and those accounts as a matter of course I cannot settle.
Joel Palmer Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 236.



Sir
    While at Washington in March last I was kindly permitted by your office to examine correspondence of Mr. Palmer Superintendent Indian Affairs for Oregon with your office wherein the same pertained to myself. And to my surprise I found another "report" from him relating to my conduct as Agent, dated Dayton Dec. 21, 1855. You will better understand why I am surprised when I say that Mr. Palmer arrived at the Indian Reserve on the 1st November, which day & also on the 2nd he pursued his investigation, visiting the Indians & all of the whites on his way up Rogue River to Fort Lane. He also went several miles above the Fort to see the other two employees, two sons of his informant, Mr. Huddleston. He saw them all, returned & stayed at Fort Lane. I was absent when he reached there & had been for a day or two on Indian service, but I also returned the same evening. I found it necessary to go down the river a few miles that night & before I started Mr. Palmer said to me that he desired to have a conversation with me on the subject of my suspension in the morning. I replied that I should return in time; that I was willing to have an interview with him & review the entire subject; provided that it should take [place] in presence of third parties, to which he consented & suggested that Judge Deady & Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew had arrived then with him & could be present, also Captain Smith, commanding officer at the Post. I returned in the morning and the interview took place in presence of these gentlemen. It was a long one, during which everything that had been referred to by him, or his informant, both in that & the Port Orford District [was discussed]. At the close Mr. Palmer said that he had been misled; that there was no truth in any of the statements to my prejudice, & that he took pleasure in reinstating me to the full exercise of my duties which he then did. To which I replied that there was reason why I had a right to doubt his entire sincerity (which he admitted during the interview, though he denied the fact); that if he was not entirely satisfied his duty as a man & as supt. required that I should know it; that I was ready then & there to meet it all with evidence not to be mistaken, or to be doubted; that if he would give me his word of honor as Superintendent & as a gentleman that he had examined all to his satisfaction that I would continue to act. Otherwise that I should cease & devote some time to defending my character & to those, if any, that chose to attempt to cast a shade upon it. And he then & there replied that he had seen all of the citizens who resided near to the Reserve, & the Indians; that he had seen all who bought grass & planted potatoes, Mr. Huddleston's son, also Capt. Smith; that he had investigated it perfectly & that it was all explained to his entire satisfaction.
    With this assurance I continued to act, supposing the subject to be definitely & satisfactorily settled, being with him for a long time after & he giving me no intimation to the contrary. But it seems according to his own statement that he violated this pledge immediately.
    If it was general that officers of government are suspended upon unsupported verbal assertions of one irresponsible man, which was the fact in this case according to his own version it would exhibit credulity to weakness. But after having so done to "reinstate" without knowing whether even such information was true or not develops vacillating imbecility. To state that all was settled & specially request that all remembrance of it be forgotten, for the public good, which he did in presence of "the witnesses" and to receive an affirmative answer. Then to pursue a secret "investigation" & as secretly "report" what he had himself, after investigation, admitted to be untrue, exhibits traits of character that man never gets beneath.
    In March last I submitted a letter, directed to yourself, from M. P. Deady, U.S. Judge in that district, to which I have the honor to ask your special attention. Also [a letter from] Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew dated July 21st 1855, written eight months after Mr. Palmer reinstated me at Fort Lane & six months after this last "report" was dated. In which Judge Deady says & Mr. Drew adopts it, "The Indian Agency in Southern Oregon is within my judicial district. I was passing over the country all of the time holding courts & the facts above stated are within my personal knowledge as of such general notoriety as to be assented to by everyone in the vicinity. I am further satisfied from my own personal knowledge & the universal testimony of the settlers in Southern Oregon that Mr. Culver while in office performed the duties of his office faithfully & efficiently, that the charges preferred against him by the supt. were altogether untrue & his subsequent suspension & removal was without cause."
    I make this quotation because both of these gentlemen were present at "the interview" when I was reinstated, also because they have since continued to hold courts there, & if the facts, as then known, had not proved to be in all respects true that they must have heard at least an intimation of it.
    This matter is sprung upon me here & I am compelled to use the means that chance to be at hand. I will first take up his letter to me dated September 2nd 1854, and then his "report" to you bearing date December 21st 1855 and will be as brief as the case will admit.
    The first information that he speaks of is "that I had early in the spring contracted with Indians residing on Table Rock Reserve (among the number Sam) for the privilege of cutting hay for which I was to pay them $250; again "that during or before the time of cutting I sold the privilege of gathering the hay to one Bruce, reserving for myself the right of cutting as much as I might want, he paying me the same price that I was to have paid the Indians originally." Nothing could be further from the truth. I never spoke to an Indian in Oregon about buying grass from them. During the spring some white persons spoke to the chiefs Jo & Sam about purchasing the grass that would be upon the Reserve & they very properly spoke to me about it. I did not encourage or discourage it, but told them that it was not time to sell it because it had yet to grow. But if there was no food in it for them, which they assured was the fact & which I afterwards learned from personal observation to be true, & if it could be put to no other better use for them, that I saw no objection to their selling it, and at the proper time that I would assist them to make the most of it, if such proved to be for the best. The same conversation was in substance repeated at different times & I believe always in presence of Captain A. J. Smith, commander of the Post, at whose quarters or house the Agency was kept. At first they spoke of having the proceeds added to their annuity, but afterwards concluded to use it for charitable purposes. The proceeds was to be placed in my hands, they to make whatever use of it that they deemed proper, provided only that it should meet my approval. I will here quote the closing paragraph of Captain Smith's affidavit before the investigating committee; a copy of their "report" is on file in your office. "The witness says that the sale of the grass was talked of among the Indians months before it was made & they wished Mr. Culver to effect such a thing if he could when the proper time came. That their annuity might be increased & that Sam was present when it was sold & assisted to promote the transaction & was pleased with its terms." The Chief Jo was sick at the time & hence was not present. As you will observe, I told them that I would do all that was in my power to assist them to sell it, if it proved to be for the best, and as time would permit I gave the subject attention & found that they made no use of it as food or for any other purpose. I was occupied constantly in settling slight difficulties & misunderstandings between the two races & for that purpose found it necessary to be quite a large portion of the time in another part of my district, near Indians that no treaty had ever been made with. And was so engaged when I received a message from Jo saying that "the grass was now full grown & that the white men were anxious to buy it now if at all" & requested me to come if possible at once, or if not to send word how much they ought to get for it. If I had examined the subject sufficiently & was able to answer the question "how much they ought to get for it" I should have sent to Captain Smith & requested him to assist them to make a bargain & be a witness to it, to prevent a misunderstanding. I should have felt at liberty to do so because Captain Smith always exerted himself to promote the interests of the Indian Department. I did not deem it prudent to be absent from the post that I was then in, but was not prepared to state how much they ought to get for it, because I did not know the expenses that might be attending its transportation to market, nor its value when there. I was troubled not a little about it because I feared that Jo & Sam would feel that they had reason to complain if I failed to attend to it until it was too late. If I devoted all of my time to bad Indians they would reason that there was not much inducement to be good, and I regretted that any white person had ever spoken to them about it. I finally concluded to start early on the next morning for Jacksonville & Fort Lane, 50 miles distant, to see all who would be likely to want it on my way there & have them meet me & the chiefs upon the Reserve the next day to go over the ground on which a road must be built, also to look at the grass. I found that hay was selling in the streets of Jacksonville at from $18 to $25 according to quality. I saw all of the buyers & reached Fort Lane that night. During that evening I asked Captain Smith if he would like to have the quartermaster buy the grass upon the ground. He said that he had been over most of the ground where a road must be made & that it would cost nearly the value of the hay to deliver it, to say nothing of the price of the grass upon ground or the cost of cutting it. On the next morning I went over the river with Sam & found Mr. Frisby & Mr. Bruce (the other buyers had been upon the ground in my absence). Mr. Frisby had looked at the grass before & duly looked at the chance for a road, when he left saying that the road would cost too much & that he was not in [the] market. I examined the whole with Mr. Bruce & Sam. I estimated the amount of hay that could be cut to advantage, besides what was wanted for Indian stock, at 100 tons. Mr. Bruce & others who examined it thought there was about that amount. At last $250 was agreed upon by Sam & Mr. Bruce, with my advice & concurrence, deeming it all that any person could afford to pay for it. In cultivated meadow lands when the bottom is smooth & the grass stands even upon the ground, it is a fair day's work for a man to cut & put up into bunches or cocks one ton of hay per day; most of this ground was quite uneven. Forty or fifty tons of this stood in a body & it was from this that I reserved what was needed for the Indian Department; the rest was scattered about here & there in patches containing from one to four or five tons. On account of the unevenness of the ground & the grass being scattered in such small patches a man could not do more than two thirds as much as he otherwise could. Labor was worth $5 per day, board included. I do not think that a single ton was put up for less than six dollars. A team & driver was worth from 10 to 12 dollars per day. As this must be hauled over a mountain & through Rogue River more teams was required than ordinary, but say $10 per day. It was a fair day's work for an ox team, & no other could be used to draw, one load per day. On a few occasions two loads per day were drawn, as Mr. Bruce has since told me, but it occupied a part of the night. Say ten dollars for hauling & I know that none was or could be done for less. A grindstone was worth $20 a scythe $10 each & all incidental expenses in proportion. How much it did cost them to make the road I am not informed but know that it required great labor, which I saw them bestowing from time to time upon it. I do not see how the actual cost could have been less than from 22 to 25 dollars delivered at the edge of the Reserve where Fort Lane is. And not less than $30 per ton delivered at Jacksonville. The foregoing facts are what I had before me when I advised the chief to sell & are what I estimated its value from. It is true, as Mr. Palmer says, that the contract price between the quartermaster & Mr. Bruce was $32.50 but he omits to mention that it was considered too high by that officer & that in consequence of the high price they only took half of the amount that they advertised for & wanted, and that they determined to limit the horses to half rations unless the rest could be obtained on more reasonable terms. In less than ten days after, they purchased 50 tons more at $25 per ton, which was drawn down from towards Jacksonville. This was all within Mr. Palmer's knowledge & he ought to have mentioned it, because without it an impression is conveyed that is entirely untrue. As I have before remarked we rode over the ground. I assisted to make the best sale of it that I could, after which I returned to Fort Lane, took tea & after dark rode 30 miles towards the place that I had left the day previous, because I did not deem it prudent to be longer away from there at that time. There were Indians in the mountains near there who really belonged in California & who came over to commit depredations upon the whites in hopes to exasperate them until they would take vengeance upon friendly Oregon Indians & in retaliation the Oregon Indians would commit acts of violence; one act would bring on another until both being exasperated war would follow. It was easy to prevent such things taking place if it received a little attention at once, but next to impossible to avert the consequences after it was well going. The California Indians would be the only gainers because they would murder or rob & run horses to where there was peace & where they could enjoy their booty. It was for such reasons that I found it necessary to be absent from the vicinity of the Reserve so large a share of the time. And to show that Mr. Palmer knew of "the other duties" that required the constant attention of the Agent & precluded the possibility of his bestowing daily personal attention to potato planting I will quote what he says in the latter part of this same letter. "The critical time too at which such an affair should take place, when the interest caution & vigilance on the part of the Agent is required to prevent the breaking out of another Indian war which must result in their extermination renders it the more to be regretted." I was in this manner kept in distant parts of my district most of the time. As soon as I reached home on one occasion my interpreter who I had left at home & he was a son of Chief Jo & a nephew of Chief Sam told me that Sam had been scaring Mr. Bruce; that he had told him unless he gave him something that those bunches of hay might take fire some night at the same time assigning as a reason that there was food in it for Indians, which was the reason why he ought to have the payment. And the young Indian laughed heartily to think how Sam could have the assurance to say that Indians eat grass, for there is not a seed upon any that is one quarter heavy enough to mow. I asked the boy why he did not go & make known to his father Jo, the principal chief, what Sam was doing & he replied that his father was much worse [in health] & was not able to take mush; that his friends did not wish anything of an exciting or business nature to be said to him on account of his delicate situation, which he said that Sam very well knew or he would not have dared to attempt such a thing. In the morning I went over to Sam's house & while on my way there I met a brother of chiefs Jo & Sam & next to them in authority. He told me that one day when a large number of Indians were collected just after a hunt, that they were having a gay time together & Sam proposed to bet that he could scare Bruce & make him let him have a horse or mule, if the rest of the Indians would agree to keep still. They asked him how he would do it but he would not tell them. The wager was made & the Indians agreed to keep still. Soon after this Sam went to Mr. Bruce & represented that their bunches of hay might be burned some night unless he gave to him a certain mule. In short that he induced him to believe that the only way that the hay, cut & bunched up, could be rendered safe was to give him the mule saddle & bridle. I saw Mr. Bruce & his representation was the same as above represented, except that Sam first suggested that some flour would have the desired effect & that he afterwards preferred the mule. I next saw Sam; he stated that it was easy enough to get the mule out of Bruce, for the dry grass was upon the ground & any boy could put fire to it in the night & that he frightened him to it in a short time. He seemed to look upon it as so much clear gain & was surprised when he saw that I did not approve of it. For he said that if an Indian gained by it he did not see why I should not approve of it. I explained to him why it was not right. One of the first things that I tried to impress upon them as necessary was that whenever they desired to make a bargain with whites to consult me if possible (the laws prohibiting a general barter between whites & Indians is a dead letter in Oregon), if not, to consider the matter well before completing it, but not to think of receding or deviating from the bargain when once made because it would lead to disputes; that in this instance he & his brother had talked about & thought of it for months & long enough to make up their minds; that he had made a fair bargain by & with the best advice that I was able to give him; that his honor was at stake as a chief; that in many instances he had rebuked his people for doing the same thing, but that he could not expect his people to abandon their old Indian practices of "backing out" unless he by example showed his sincerity. That he had requested me [to] assist him to make the most of it which I had done with pleasure; that it rendered me awkward, for after my assisting them, & on account of my profession I might & very justly be censured; that if the Indians generally in the district should pursue such a course, one moon could not pass without finding us in another war; that when I first came among them there was said to be many whites that were sworn to kill him on account of his past supposed bad conduct & that he early applied to me to disabuse the minds of whites on the subject & give them the strongest assurances of his good conduct in future; that I had taken great trouble to cause it to be generally so understood & that he could see that he was now treated by them as a friend; that such a course was not calculated to confirm their good impression of him. He expressed to me regret for what he had done in the strongest possible terms, stating that he did not properly consider it or its effects, only acting upon the principle that whatever an Indian could get out of a white man was all right. He desired me to tell him how he could make proper amends to Bruce, but he stated that he had exchanged the mule for a horse with a traveler, or he would return it. I showed him how he had not got a horse that was in value equal to the mule, & that it was universally the case when improper means were used to obtain property that it resulted in no gain in the end. He said the he was willing to make all amends that was within his power & from his future conduct I believe that he was entirely sincere. I told him that I was glad to hear him express such sentiments, & that when I could get time we would talk of the matter more fully & see what might & could be done to promote entire justice to all concerned.
    Mr. Palmer states that while the men were hauling hay they were stopped by Sam "on account of dissatisfaction growing out of the hay cutting." Mr. Palmer knows what the facts are, which I will repeat. Some three weeks after all of the cutting was done & it required only a day or two more to complete the hauling, this chief Sam & some members of his own band had a serious altercation in which three or four were cut with knives & one of Sam's horses shot dead. On the same day Sam went over to the Fort & when [he] was there he met the men & teams going after hay. He told them what had happened & advised them not to go over there that day & gave as a reason that the fellows were then excited & might shoot at them or anyone else that came in their way, but that he would have it all quiet by the next morning. He stated that he did not think the fellows would shoot, but that they might do so & the safest way was to keep away for the time. The men followed his suggestion. This trouble among themselves grew out of domestic affairs & had no connection with any other matter. You will observe in Captain Smith's affidavit that he says "he never knew of any excitement among the Indians on account of the hay." This excitement he knows all about & he was the first to tell me of it on my return.
    Mr. Palmer then goes on to say that if upon learning that the meadow lands upon the Reserve could be made to yield a revenue warranting its cutting & hauling to market instead of being seized as a matter of speculation by the Agent or other persons through hire, it should have been secured & the whole proceeds applied to the use & benefit of the Indian; that then three men (the Huddlestons) were employed to labor for the Reserve for their benefit. And if during the proper season their labor could be usefully turned to securing hay upon which to subsist the teams & other stock belonging to the Indians or for sale, that it was well so to employ them, but in such a case the hay designed for their use should have been left on the Reserve & the proceeds of that sold employed for their benefit.
    The "three men" were so employed during the whole haying season & as long as Bruce was cutting. To show how much the Indians would have made if I had adopted the course that Mr. Palmer says would have been right I will state in figures what my returns show. The three men were employed so from the 10th to the 30th June at the rate of $200 per month; for their labor 20 days amounts to 133 33/100 dollars which does not include the food consumed by them during the time or the cost of implements. Two of them were engaged 25 days hauling it to Fort Lane at $65 per month each $108.33. The use of oxen & wagons (at half price) $5 per day $125 total $366.66 as before observed, not to take into account the food consumed by them or any other expense. Mr. Palmer afterwards states that there was not more than 7 or 8 tons, well, say eight tons, which makes the cost per ton $45.33 as before remarked, not to take into account the food consumed, or any other incidental expenses. I do not introduce anything that these Huddlestons did or said because it is good evidence, on the contrary it is of the most worthless kind, but I may be justified in using it to disprove what Mr. Palmer states when they are as satisfactory a standard for him.
    From the fact that war existed in that district when I went there, & the state of things that has since followed, you will readily understand why the Agent was so occupied in endeavors to keep peace as not to be able to devote only a chance moment now & then to these three laboring men. Though I would call your attention to the fact that Mr. Palmer did not discover that the employees lacked for tools, seed, provisions or any other thing necessary for their work & I am sure that if he had he would not have failed to mention it. I was there often enough to see what was required & always saw that it was there; they did not lack for anything except a disposition to do their duty. When I was there they represented to me that they had cut more than afterwards proved to be true. They pointed to some that had been cut by Mr. Bruce.
    Mr. Palmer says that "the hay intended to keep the cattle should have been left upon the Reserve." Generally in Oregon cattle do not need hay in the winter, though it occurs once in 3 or 4 years that hay is required & a large number of cattle die at each time for want of hay or straw during two or three weeks that snow remains upon the ground. A portion of this hay I intended for such a contingency if it should arise. I intended up to about the time that the hauling was commenced to have enough for this purpose on the other side of the river. But at that time I became convinced that no funds would reach that Agency in time to put up any buildings upon the Reserve & if so no one could be there to feed the hay to the cattle, because the river is so high that it cannot be forded during the entire winter & to go around to the nearest ferry then running would not be less than 25 miles to it. If snow should fall & the cattle require to be fed I could have them drove around & fed until it was not further necessary & then send them back. I adopted it as a matter of necessity, and no funds did arrive & no buildings were erected.
    Next he says that "rails were drawn away by settlers & appropriated to their own use." On receipt of his communication I examined the matter closely & found that none had been disturbed.
    Then he says that the remaining rails lay rotting on the ground while the crops remained unenclosed. There was no crops except potatoes, there was no stock near except cattle & horses, which would not injure them. Since the first work was done upon that Reserve I willingly advanced all of the money that was actually necessary to get in those crops, believing as I did that they would be of great service to me in keeping peace during that summer, for when the treaty was made with them Mr. Palmer sacredly promised that it should be done. And I believed that it would be the means of keeping many of the feeble ones from starving during the next winter. Another reason why I did not cause these men to draw & lay up the rails around those crops was that they were so shiftless & slow that their wages would amount to so much while they were engaged in it that I could not certify that the amount was correct & just. But if they had been worthy men my private means would not admit of my advancing money to support them longer than was absolutely necessary.
    Again he says, "It was expected that as soon as the season had passed for putting in spring crops they (the Huddlestons) would be engaged in hauling rails for enclosing them, in erecting suitable buildings & in preparing ground for wheat." I will here quote from the latter part of this same letter, he says, "The great length of time intervening between the date of treaty & its ratification & the absence of funds to carry into effect its stipulations naturally leads them to question our sincerity." It is true that it was expected all of these things would take place, though he omits to mention another thing that was "expected," the means with which to do it. And when he was writing it he knew that by my own money & exertions I succeeded in fulfilling all agreements that were directly promised up to that time. In answer to what he "expected," that suitable buildings would be erected, I hardly know what language is proper. He knew that there was nothing in my hands to do it with of course. The taste exhibited by such soaring expectations you will appreciate & I will pass it without comment.
    He also "expected," it seems, that ground would be prepared for wheat as soon as the spring work was done. I am safe in saying that such a thing as breaking up "good wheat land" in the months of July, August & September never did & never can take place in Oregon because the ground is so dry & hard as to render it always entirely impossible at that season of the year.
    He next refers to Lewis the interpreter who laid under a tree two weeks during his sickness & died there. Captain Smith & others who testified before the "committee" state that he was always well cared for. He was sick several weeks. In the early of it & subsequently I urged him to let Dr. Crane the U.S. surgeon at the Fort give him medicine, but he always objected, saying that white doctors know how to cure white people but did not know how to cure Indians. He insisted upon having Indian doctors & while I found that he was not willing to take medicine I sent for such Indian doctors as he preferred to have. The Indians always sleep in the open air in summer & he did so as a matter of choice. During his sickness I did all for him & his comfort that it was in my power to do.
    Again he says another reason for suspecting my correctness & fidelity as Agent is my loose manner of discharging the duties as Sub Agent at Port Orford. This it never had "but lately come to his knowledge," he says. "It appears that while Sub Agent at Port Orford he had a gold claim at or near that place on which he & Chilliman, his interpreter, an Indian, were much of their time employed, he (Culver) securing the profits of their joint labor, both at the same time drawing salaries from the United States." This purports to be the result of an investigation, because he says that it but lately came to his knowledge. I entered upon duty in that district on the 5th day of August 1852. In the last days of April 1853 some beach mines were discovered. They were novel in their character & different from any that had ever been discovered. The particles were so fine that it was a question whether they could be saved. As an experiment I placed a small machine on the beach immediately in front of my office & about 4 or 5 rods from it. At times I put sand into it & my interpreter did the same when he pleased. I found that the fine & in part invisible particles were intermixed in much of the beach sand & that a considerable portion of it could be saved. By reference to my annual report for 1853 you will find that I refer to it. As before remarked, the mines were discovered in the last days of April. I left the district in the early part of July following, only a little more than two months after they were first discovered & I let another person have my machine on the 14 June. I am not able to account for the discoveries that Mr. Palmer makes in his "investigations," & will pass this without comment.
    Again he says that the interpreter Chilliman had not received any of his pay although he had signed receipts. I had already showed this to be untrue which Mr. Palmer afterwards admitted before the three witnesses. This interpreter had not a cent when he went there, which he admits. Board was $10 per week. I paid for his while I boarded & when I kept house I only charged him $3 per week for himself & $3 per week for his wife. I had showed to him that what they actually consumed cost more than I charged them & the receipted store bills against him & cash amounted to about $40 more than his pay. It was true that the money was not usually paid to him in presence of the witnesses because he had already waived it, which he acknowledged when he signed the receipts.
    I will now take up his "report" to you bearing date Dayton December 21, 1854 & his letter enclosing it dated next day. In the latter he states that he did reinstate me & expresses regret therefor. He regrets it because in consequence of his strong desire to find me innocent that he gave undue weight to the statements of those with whom he conversed & the report of the investigating committee which he says "was gotten up at the instance of Mr. Culver." The manner in which Mr. Palmer speaks of this investigating committee would suggest the question whether it was not a packed arrangement & I will mention who the persons are. Gen. J. F. Miller, chairman, was a member of the preceding Legislature, was appointed by Mr. Palmer to act as Special Agent in my place while I was suspended & is now quartermaster gen. of the Oregon Volunteers. Thomas Pyle was sheriff of Jackson County. Lycurgus Jackson was clerk of the United States District Court. S. H. Taylor was postmaster at Jacksonville & George H. Ambrose is the gentleman that was appointed by the President to succeed me. It would have been in good taste if Mr. Palmer had refrained from stating how anxious he was to find me innocent, but allowed his actions to indicate it.
    Mr. Palmer in his "report" then goes on to say, in substance (then in so much repetition that it is unnecessary to repeat answers to the same thing though he repeats the expression); that he Palmer inquired of persons presumed to be acquainted with the facts who almost unanimously declared their conviction of the correctness & efficiency of "Mr. Culver" in the discharge of his duties; that these considerations & the respectability of the investigating committee induced him to give credence to their version of matters; that he directed Mr. Gary, his secretary, to inform you that he was unable to obtain positive evidence to sustain the charges. The idea which he evidently intends to convey is that though there was some kind of evidence to sustain them, that he could not get any that was positive.
    In the commencement of this communication I stated as a fact, within my knowledge which Mr. Palmer admitted in presence of the "three parties present" when he reinstated me, that he did before he reinstated me see & converse with every man that ever cut grass upon that Reserve; that he did see every man that bought hay; that he did see every person that planted potatoes; that he had seen the two sons of his informant (Huddleston) who were also employees with their father & dismissed for the same reason; that he had seen all who knew anything of the facts. And I know that he knew as much of the material facts as he ever did afterwards. He says that his secretary made the statement a little too strong, but he himself says that he "was unable to obtain positive evidence to sustain the charges." Is it possible that he could not ascertain that 50 tons of this hay was sold for 32.50 dollars per ton, & if he did not ascertain that it cost more than $12 per ton to cut & transport it that it must have been a fraud? Is it possible that if $45 per acre was paid for a crop of potatoes which ought not to have cost more than $20 per acre that he could not find evidence to sustain the charges? If it was a fact that fences & Agency buildings ought & could have been built & nothing [was] done towards it that he could not ascertain the fact? If it was necessary that the Agent should go upon the Reserve to reside, under a tree, for there was not any other place, could he not find evidence of the fact. If wheat ground could have been broken up during the dry season could he not ascertain that fact. If part of the hay, as he said, ought under the circumstances to have been left on the Reserve could he not have learned that it was not. All of these things are of a general nature & the idea that positive evidence concerning them could not be obtained at any time is an insult to reason. One of two things must be true, either he failed to keep the money back & allowed those Indians to be swindled, or he has prostituted his official position to utter official falsehoods to gratify private spleen. He cannot say that he did it, while he was laboring so hard to believe me innocent, "on account of the universal testimony of the citizens & the report of the committee" because he did not pay me until the 14 December 1854, only seven days before this report was written.
    The contract for putting in potatoes Mr. Palmer thinks must have been a swindle. He does not remember whether he knew how much the contract price was for those that were being put in when he was there in April or not. I fear that he does not remember some I remember distinctly that he did know all about it; that he & myself made an estimate to see which would be the cheapest, those put in at the contract price or those to be put in by the team & then were to be left by him & we both agreed that it would cost about $45 per acre either way. But suppose that he did forget all about that estimate, during the before mentioned interview, in presence of the third parties. I showed him how it must cost about that amount per acre & he admitted it to be correct. I will now repeat that estimate. When Mr. Palmer was there in April he purchased about 100 bushels [of] potatoes & issued them to the Indians; he paid two dollars per bushel in cash & sent his own team after them. I mention this to show the price of potatoes. This took place about one week after I made the first contract & about ten days before I made the last one; $2.50 was the common cash price for potatoes delivered within a reasonable distance. Ten bushels of seed was planted upon an acre, which would make a cost of $25. The common price for breaking (plowing) was $12 per acre, which makes $37. It requires one man to drop the seed in the furrow at $5 per acre makes $42, then the ground was harrowed not less than five times over which certainly could not be done for less than $3 per acre. These prices were the ruling ones at the time. I verily believe that the contractors did not make more than fair wages for themselves & teams while employed on the work. And in this connection I will remark that the potatoes put in by the three men that Mr. Palmer left for that purpose (Huddlestons) cost, taking into account only the wages of the men, provisions consumed by them while engaged on the work and planted & repairs on plow $51.69 per acre, to say nothing of the cost or use of their yokes of oxen, yokes, chains, plows, wagon, horse (to hunt cattle) or one item of food, flour, that was consumed by the men while they were at work. These are facts that I know Mr. Palmer was aware of because I explained it to him in presence of "the witnesses" & my quarterly return shows it. But I do not mention it as proof because it is good as against any except Mr. Palmer & his informant. These crops that were put in by the three "informants" cost too much & it was one of the reasons why I dismissed them.
    He also says that he directed me to plant 30 or 40 acres. He directed me to plant 40  or 50 acres, & some corn, peas, pumpkins &c. As I explained to him at the proper time I could not plant anything besides potatoes & as he made a subsequent arrangement with an additional band to come upon the Reserve I thought best to be sure & not fall short of the 50 acres, but come as near as I could to it. By the first contract & the one upon which they were at work when Mr. Palmer was there, the parties were to put in 25 or 30 acres, but in a few days I saw that they would not be able to comply in amount. I told them so, & by consent I let to another person a part of this amount.
    Again he says that he left with me oxen, plows &c. and with his approbation that I employed three men to work. I did not employ the men (Huddlestons) nor did I ever speak to them upon the subject until they were actually employed by Mr. Palmer & I [was] notified of the fact by him. They had been in his employ for months & came there in his employ, for some reason that I know now, but did not know then, he preferred to leave them under my charge which he did.
    Referring to the crops he says that "some of the expense incurred on account of them has been paid." This statement is not true & I ask you to note the last that now had been paid except those three Huddlestons. And they were paid in full before our dollars was ever received by me for services as Agent in that district or for any other purpose in that district & while he was representing to me that no funds were received from Washington. When he says then that none of the expense has been paid it is not correct. The Huddlestons were paid. And the amount going to them is the only item that is in the least doubtful. Mr. Palmer took funds that were appropriated for other purposes & paid them, for he says that no funds had arrived "applicable to their payment."
    Again he says that he suggested to me the importance of dividing the potato crop among the several bands, & that I replied saying that I had not time to do so, nor did I regard it as my business not being employed as farmer. And he says that I made the same answer to the inquiry why I had not removed to & resided upon the Reserve. Whether I was employed as farmer or not I certainly performed the duties of one, when other & more important duties did not require my attention. Mr. Palmer did not make such reference to the subject in my presence. I referred to it in our first interview in presence of "the witnesses" & he then admitted its utter absurdity. The potatoes were not large enough to use or divide until after he arrived then. When he mentioned his "expectation" that I would remove to the Reserve in his first communication I thought he must be laboring under a strange, but honest, misapprehension but after he admitted before the witnesses that it was absurd to express it; that in all respects my location at the Fort was as good even if there was Agency buildings, but as there were none it was the very best place then to make the allusion which he does to it in this last "report." Much charity is required to believe that his is an honest misapprehension. The Military Reserve lay between the Indian Reserve & the principal white settlements & practically it was a part of the Indian Reserve. It was incomparably better than for the Agent to reside in the middle of the Reserve because both Indians & whites could always have access to him, all of which he admitted at "the interview." And please note the fact that my successor has not resided upon the Reserve since. But in justice to him I will say that he is located much better than as though he was; he is as I was on the border between the two, about one mile from the Fort.
    The rails he refers to, & says that he could find many. As he went in search of them without my knowledge & concealed the fact that he could not find them from me it cannot be expected that I would show him where they were, though if he had expressed such a desire I would have done so.
    He then refers to some roads that leads to timbered land on the Reserve, as he says, on which some claimants among the number Mr. Bruce had hauled rails from said timbered land. Mr. Bruce & several other persons had land claims that joined the Reserve. They made & drew rails from the mountains that lay at the north of them. I do not think that any of these persons cut & made rails on land included in the limits of the Reserve. But as the boundary lines had never been run out I cannot state that I know it to be a fact. I can state though that there is timber enough on the same mountains surrounding the valley portion of the Reserve to fence it into acre lots & not use one quarter of it.
    He then says--"I visited them both, they acknowledged the fact & promised to pay a fair valuation for the timber." They told me that Mr. Palmer said that he thought they had cut some upon the Reserve & that they told him in case it is so proved they were willing to pay a fair valuation therefor, but that they did not think that it was.
    Again he says, "In a subsequent conversation with Mr. Culver on this subject he alleged entire ignorance of the matter although a frequent visitor at Mr. Bruce's." If Mr. Palmer means to be understood that I alleged ignorance of the fact that claimants had cut timber in the mountains near to the Reserve & their claims it is not true. When I was with him one day he asked me if I did not think that the claimants adjoining the Reserve had cut some timber over the line. I told him that I thought not, though it had never been surveyed & hence I could not know, but that I went to the break in Table Rock, the landmark, & sighted through the best that I could & made the line some distance west of them.
    I was never at Mr. Bruce's house until the principal chief Jo was very sick, when Mr. Bruce was kind enough to take him into his house & show him great attention, for which I felt thankful. I visited the chief then several times & once took Dr. Crane the surgeon at the Post over to see him. I mention this because the particular manner in which Mr. Palmer mentions that "I was a frequent visitor at his house" might lead to a sorry impression when taken in connection with the fact that he bought the grass. I will here state that Mr. Bruce's character in that country stands high & Mr. Palmer does not impeach it there.
    He again refers to grass & says--In passing along the border of the Reserve I found that the grass had been cut at various points by the neighboring citizens. This was done by permission of Mr. Culver. When the persons cutting this grass were interrogated by the Indians as to their authority they were told that they were authorized by the Agent & when they inquired of him why they cut their grass he explained that he did not know (in short) giving the Indians no satisfaction whether they were to be paid at all. This last information I obtained from Mary daughter of the head chief & a very influential person in the tribe. Then Mr. Palmer goes on to state what I said when questioned about it by him & the Indians. "Mr. Culver when interrogated as to the privilege granted to settlers along the river to cut hay on the Reserve & as to the consideration received he replied that Chief Jo & his family had been sick a long time & that some people had assisted them, that a part would be applied for this service & that the balance would be paid to them this winter. On my suggesting that a knowledge of the time & manner of payment would have quieted the apprehensions of the Indians he replied that no trouble existed on that account, that Sam desired all for himself & did not care for others, but Jo wished it applied to help the aged & infirm this winter, but from Jo's statement to my interpreter he was as ignorant of its application as others, for he had sent directly to Mr. Culver to learn whether he had given these persons permission to cut grass & that Mr. Culver had refused to give him any information about the matter. This is Indian testimony but I nevertheless believe it to be true."
    I will here say in justice to Mr. Palmer that any statements that were made to him by the Chief Jo or his daughter Mary can be relied upon and true. Their characters for truth & veracity when they are all personally known will not compare unfavorably with his own.
    The grass that he refers to as having been cut by persons residing on the border of the Reserve was along the margin of Rogue River & was on the south side of the Reserve. This has no connection with the grass cut by Bruce, the latter being back of the two Table Mountains. The level ground between Rogue River & the base of the mountains below Table Rock, or mountain, from there to Evans Creek 12 miles is from 10 to 80 rods wide. On our side the whites are settled & on the other the Indians are. In several places between these points little streams flow down from the mountains & along the margin of these little streams some grass grows that is large enough to cut being from ½ to 4 tons in a place. There was a general time of sickness among the Indians; there was hardly a wigwam in the eastern distance that had not in it more or less that were sick. As I was passing down the river one day the Indians asked me if they might sell the grass to the whites who lived opposite & get in payment such things as would relieve & be a comfort to the sick. Of course I told them that they might do so. And as I passed along down I took occasion to [call] on those white persons & said to them that if they could buy it of the Indians that they might do so & pay them in such things as were needed for the sick, provided: that the question as to whether the Indians had received sufficient compensation should ultimately be left to me. That when they were all through I would estimate the value of the grass cut & compare it with the amount paid, an account of which they were to keep & the Indians do the same with sticks. In this way every Indian family along the line, except two, received flour, rice, crackers, tea &c. in proportion to their sick. At the proper time I estimated the value of grass cut & the compensation paid for it. Those that had not paid enough were so informed & paid more. It is just to say that all of the whites paid full value & some of them more. And I state positively of my own knowledge that every Indian & white person who resided along that stream know the facts as above mentioned. Though Mr. Palmer in "his investigation" did not discover it. The chief Jo after leaving Mr. Bruce's was then he and his family sick & every day for a long time he received assistance which was on account of this grass; his daughter "Mary" went after most of it & when she did not she sent for it. Enclosed is a paper marked A. It is the items that were furnished to the chief's family & by them in part distributed to sick families near them. This is the only amount exceeding four tons in a place. The rest I examined at the time, the amount cut & the value paid, & did nothing only to see that it was equal. This being a larger amount & longer being paid I preserved the item & it is particularly to the point because these items were all furnished to Jo & Mary, of whom Mr. Palmer so particularly inquires. Another paper marked B. explains itself. It shows what use was made of the $100 that was paid into my hands by Mr. Bruce, before referred to. The certificate to each is made by citizens who reside nearest to this point. Mr. Palmer is furnished with a duplicate of both of these papers.
    He refers quite often to the seed that was destroyed by Mr. Bruce. I was not surprised at his mistake in the first instance, because he did not know anything about it & could easily be misled. But when he wrote this last "report" he did know that they never gathered seed from this ground. There is grass that grows on the side of the mountains in stands of from 10 to 30 spears of grass which are unusually heavily laden with seed. These stools stand from 4 to 8 feet apart, but the squaws can walk from one stool of grass to another & gather the seed rapidly. But they do not gather seed from any grass that grows on the east bottom when it is heavy enough to mow. And to show that there is not a mistake in this matter I will further add that in an hour after the last hay was removed the Indians set fire to all of the grass on the bottom land. They did so in order that they could see where certain roots grow on this cut land that they used for food. Seed cannot be gathered until grass is ripe. The moment this grass was ripe they burned it up, which they always do.
    Again he says, "It seems singular to me that Mr. Culver should be so resolved to screw [sic] Bruce & so earnestly insist that the mule saddle & bridle should be regarded as in part payment of the original contract price, which had been arranged by himself while the whole matter in regard to the mule was between Bruce & the chief without Culver's concurrence & wholly another bargain." I never spoke with Mr. Palmer on this subject but twice up to the date of that "report." The first time was in presence of the witnesses in our first meeting & once afterwards when we were riding together he referred to it & we talked some upon the subject. When he represents that I insisted that the mule should be regarded in part payment &c. or insisted upon anything in the matter he proves that his is a fruitful memory. On this occasion after referring to the fact that Mr. Bruce declined to pay any more because as he said the mule was extorted from him, I observed to him that the whole subject had of course become a delicate one to me, and asked him if he was willing to relieve me of it & settle it himself & he consented to do so, at the same time he requested me to give him the result of my investigation of the subject which I did. It is not necessary here to repeat it because it does not differ from what is detailed in the early part of this communication; I will only refer here to one point. I learned in my examination of it from Chief Sam's Indians & from the chief himself that he tried to make Bruce believe that his bunches of hay would be burned unless he went & bought the mule for him. The chief told me that he intended to frighten him into it & that he succeeded in doing it. Mr. Palmer asked me if I had ever told Mr. Bruce what admissions the chief or his people had made to me. I answered that I had not. He then asked me if I thought he would be able to make the extortion appear by any other evidence than mine, if suit should be brought. I answered that I thought he could but did not know. He then asked me if in case I should be placed upon the witness stand & requested to state all that I knew about it if I should repeat what admission the chief & his men had made to me. I told him that in such a case I should state all that was within my knowledge. He said that it would cause them to lose the $150. I told Mr. Palmer that if that or any other sum claimed for Indians depended upon my stating one part of a fact & suppressing the others that they never would realize it. He then asked me what I thought was morally right in the premises & I said that if the chief did extort & his men did wink at it that it ought to be deducted from the $250. I told him that to encourage such double dealing would bring war upon that country in an incredible short span of time.
    Again he says that Mr. Brownlee called upon me several times to buy the grass but that I put him off agreeing to let him know before it was sold, but did not &c. I take it that Mr. Palmer obtained this information from Mr. Brownlee, and it is only necessary for me to state that he was a notorious bad character & in a few days after Mr. Palmer obtained his information his informant left Southern Oregon for parts unknown, at the same time he was accused of an offense against the law. He did not apply to me to purchase the grass.
    Mr. Palmer refers to a letter from Mr. Taylor to show that the committee did not report the evidence correctly. It appears in Mr. Davis' statement that "they went to the Indians to purchase what they wanted up to 100 tons." He says that Mr. Bruce states that he bought it all. The mistake is a natural one. Mr. Bruce did buy all that was back of the two Table Rocks, except what was wanted for the Indian Department, and the amount sold to him was estimated at about 100 tons, which he was to have, more or less. This did not include all on the Reserve, but all within given points "back of the Table Rocks" or "the 100 tons more or less." It was during that investigation before the committee ofttimes referred to as "the 100 tons more or less" than in any other manner, hence the expression as it appears.
    He says that Bruce admitted that there was 300 or 400 tons that might have been cut. I cannot positively assert that Mr. Bruce did not so say, but I know that no such amount was there to cut. Mr. Brown could have gathered some more than he did, how much I cannot say. The best grass was in the west & low places & either way on the ground because higher the grass was lighter. I picked out the best places for the employees & then he mowed the rest, the best places first & it continued getting poorer & poorer.
    He says that he made arrangements to induce all of the bands to reside on the Reserve &c. they were collected & brought to the Reserve and arrangements made for the Agent to reside among them (what the arrangements were he don't specify). That instead of aiding to plant crops I gave them (Indians) permits to return to their old haunts; that instead of confining my distribution of flour according to instructions to those engaged at work that I gave it out promiscuously & without regard even to those residing on the Reserve. He does not state what arrangements he made to induce all of the Indians [to] remove to the Reserve. I do not know that he made any. The Indians in that district could not sustain life if confined in the limits of the Reserve; there was not food sufficient. The only way that it could be done was to supply them in part & they could obtain the rest. This must be done before they could be brought there in mass. I had a standing arrangement with those Indians that if any one band of them, or a band of California Indians, came into the district & were hostile that on notice from me at any moment they would all travel night & day until they reached the Reserve. The reason was that if they remained outside that they would become confounded with the hostile ones. In the early part of April 1854 a band [of] mostly California Indians under Tipsey (he speaks of it) did come over & try to involve the two races in another war, but the Indians of my district were true to their agreement & on notice from me were upon the Reserve in an incredible short span of time & before the hostile band could manage to involve them. They all came except a part of two small [bands]; they were detained by sickness & were in a condition that rendered it impossible. It was three or four days after I gave this notice to them to collect that Mr. Palmer arrived there. He did not collect them or know that they were being collected until he reached there & then the idea that they could sustain themselves for any length of time was not even advanced, but it was understood that until this band could be driven out or subdued that they must be fed at the expense of the Indian Department & while he was there only a few days he bought several loads of potatoes & issued them to the Indians as subsistence (at $2 per. I refer to this to show that it was necessary & that he knew it to be so. I issued some flour to the Indians "promiscuously" as he says, because if they were not helped in that way five times the force that was there in that country could not have compelled them to remain; because they would have starved to death if they were not so helped & had compelled to remain; because if they did not remain until it was settled they must become involved with the rest & a general war follow; because humanity, the public good, policy & every worthy consideration required they should be kept from starving. I did give some of them permits to leave there temporarily on the terms stated because I had nothing to issue to them & they must either starve or run away unless I did so, but not one of them left until Tipsey & his band was disposed of. When Mr. Palmer made that "report" he knew that it was necessary to grant them permits. And to show that there is no mistake in my statement & the spirit that has dictated that "report" I will further add that in the November following when he made his treaty he gave them all permission to return to their homes for the same reason. After making the treaty & granting them general permits it seems that he went to his office & one of his first acts was to make it as a charge against me.
    Many of those Indians worked at times for the whites, generally mining. One band that I permitted to leave temporarily earned in the month succeeding the date of the permit six hundred & forty dollars in mining operations with which money they purchased clothing & provisions & this month's labor was worth more to them [than] their portion of the yearly annuity. There is not an Indian in that district but can by mining operations earn more that is valuable to himself in ten days than his portion of the yearly annuity & they know it. But they always said that they were willing to go upon the Reserve & even suffer if peace depended upon it, but to remain there & suffer to gratify someone's whim that they would not. After Tipsey was driven out I do not think that the presence of 3000 regular troops could have forced them to remain during that summer unless they were assisted in the way of food. Nothing could be more clear than [that] to attempt to force them to remain would cause war. I believe that I know it would have done so then. Mr. Palmer has since, by special direction, attempted it & war has followed. I do not intend to refer to any conduct or policy adopted by Mr. Palmer unless my own self defense demands it. But I will show what has been produced by this policy in order that you can see what would have been the effect of the same course on the year previous. As I have stated, they can all get a fair living by labor & hunting if they can go to the best places & they know it. The moment that they are compelled confined to the Reserve they suffer. Mr. Palmer gave special directions & it was attempted. By means of persuasion & force a portion was removed to it; they did suffer & one by one they stole away & again as they were found were sent back to the Reserve. During all of this time ill feeling was being engendered & petty thefts became frequent. Also in their ill feeling they would take up fine horses that belonged to whites & ride them so hard in two or three days that they were ruined & then bring them back in the night. Such & kindred depredations became daily more & more frequent. Property of all kinds was stolen & destroyed & every day it grew worse. These acts by them irritated the whites & they in anger retaliated. At first all of these incidents were trifles, but each act on the part of one provoked the other to greater. Such a condition of things could have but one end. A person of experience, discrimination & means of personal observation ought not to have failed to see it long before the crisis arrived. If you could see a list of the depredations that were committed a short time previous to the present war you would be surprised. At last the bomb burst; Major Lupton's party struck the final blow. If they had not done so some other party would. I do not wish to be understood as in any manner endorsing the act of this party, on the contrary it was wrong. But many engaged in it I know personally & their standing is a guarantee that there must have been a deplorable state of things to have provoked them, for from the first they had been among the best supporters of peace. It is easy to point out how their remedy was worse than the evil, but I fear that many who condemn their act would have done in no wise different if they had been in their stead. The Indians do not deny their acts, but in extenuation said that they were forced to live upon the Reserve & there was not food enough to sustain them, because of the terms of the treaty on the part of the whites had not been complied with. The record shows that those citizens could not keep swine or poultry, their granaries were robbed, their horses rode to death & in the absence of the husband the wife was compelled at the muzzle of the rifle to hand out to those Indians whatever provisions there was in the house, in short as they said, "They were being mere slaves to raise provisions & stock that the Indians appropriated to themselves with impunity."
    Whether the citizens were right or criminally wrong does not affect the question. The officer in the Indian Department who calculates upon a man as he should be, instead of as he is, will only be successful in bringing calamity upon all that are affected by his acts. It was easy to accomplish it & policy to bring those Indians to the Reserve as soon as sufficient provision had been made to enable them, with what they could do for themselves, to get along & not suffer & to attempt it before was madness. I believe it to be so & that is the reason why I did not attempt it.
    Mr. Palmer says that my plan has been to have a few in the several bands in my confidence, to whom I communicated my wishes & allowed them to interpret to the others as best suited their notions & interest. When he made this statement he knew that I could talk to each & every Indian in that district better than any interpreter that he ever had, because I speak all of the "jargon" & as fluently as I can English & it, the jargon, is the only language that any of his interpreters ever could or pretended to speak to them, whereas I could understand enough of their native tongues to detect mistakes besides. The only use that I made of interpreters was that after I had spoken to them in the general Indian tongue "the jargon" which they nearly all could speak fluently, was to have the interpreter translate it into their native tongues, so they would have it all in two languages & all possibility of mistake be avoided. And I never yet heard from Indians or any other source that when I attempted to communicate to them was not understood.
    Mr. Palmer to show that I was partial to some Indians & treated others with contempt says that Chief Jim was a known & tried friend to the whites; that he was active in ferreting out and exposing Indians that were plotting mischief & exciting hostilities against the settlers; that an Indian shot & killed this chief & was met by me soon after & incited to come to the Reserve, giving him assurance that he should be protected.
    Simultaneous with the killing of this chief "Tipsey" & his little band, of whom Mr. Palmer speaks as hostile, went into the mountains. The Indians must be collected then if at all, & any that were left outside would inevitably join this chief. His number was then small & if the others could be prevented from joining him it could be made so hot for that single little band that they must abandon their attempt. This chief Jim was young, impulsive & somewhat overbearing in his intercourse with Indians. He seemed to mean well but lacked discretion & allowed his temper to run away with his judgment & frequently got into trouble in consequence. Two or three weeks before he was killed he & some other Indians while they were off in the mountains had a fight & during it Chief Jim killed one Indian & wounded another. The brother of the wounded man, in retaliation, killed this chief the first opportunity that presented itself afterwards. All that I could do in such cases was to use all of my moral influence to discourage & discountenance such acts & when they did later plan to get the parties together & induce them to settle it & "bury the hatchet." I succeeded in doing it in this instance. But suppose my policy in the matter did not accord with his ideas of right. He was there when the Indian came & while I was settling it & a personal observer of it. If he did not approve of any part he should at least have so intimated to me, or he could have taken it into his own hands, either of which would have been in better taste than to be a silent observer & find fault about it six months after.
    He then says that I evinced great contempt for Chief Sam & he knows of no other reason than because the chief dared to express his disapprobation of "the Agent." I do not think that a man in that district except Mr. Palmer ever heard this chief speak unkindly of me. We were warm personal friends & when I left that country he rode 30 miles with me on my way when he bid me goodbye & returned.
    Again he says that I accompanied him while he visited the scattered bands; that some bands had been in open hostility among themselves; that he had great difficulty in reconciling them & inducing them to assemble on the Reserve; that he observed on visiting a village that I would select someone of the band & take him aside & hold a private consultation, leaving the Indian to interpret & construe or misconstrue to the others as might best suit his notions. To this he objected & through an interpreter explained his wishes to the assembled village & thus "prevented any misunderstanding or treachery on the part of anyone." I did not hear the objection that he speaks of. I have before demonstrated why it was not necessary for me to get anyone to interpret for me & will not repeat it here. In answer to what he says about my taking one Indian aside &c. & the difficulty that he found in inducing the bands to assemble on the Reserve it will be necessary for me to refer to transactions of a previous date. The time of which he speaks was in November a few days after I was reinstated.
    He was there in April previous (while Tipsey was trying to make trouble). I had collected all of the Indians in the district that were upon Rogue River & Applegate Creek & all that were near Tipsey & in danger of being drawn in with him. The Deer Creeks & Illinois River Indians were on the other side of the district & not liable to be affected by him. I visited them both a few days before, when I got the first inkling of Tipsey's intention, & they promised me that when I found it absolutely necessary to preserve peace, on notice from [me] that they would hurry to the Reserve, though they were not a party to any treaty & were of course under no obligation to do so. I did not find it necessary or politic to collect them. Before Mr. Palmer left the eastern part of the district (where Tipsey was) he asked me if I did not think it would be safer to have the Deer Creek & Illinois River bands on the Reserve, if so that he could make arrangements & send them over as he went along. I told him that I thought not, because there was already a large body of Indians along the border of the Reserve & the more there was together the more excitable they become & it would be in the power of half a dozen bad men to make them nearly all unite against us in one night by some outrageous act. For instance a few such persons could steal down to the riverbank in the night [and] fire over into their camp. Kill one or two & every Indian near would under the spur of the moment join in the war cry. Whereas if only a part were near then [they] would wait until they could get the rest to join them & by quick management the whole could be stopped before a blow was struck. And I understood him to say that he concurred with me, but as he went along he sent them over to the Reserve, which of course he had a right to do. On the evening that they arrived near to the Fort I went to see them in company with Lt. Radford who had charge of the Fort. Captain Smith, commanding officer, was hunting Tipsey & one of the first questions that they asked me was how many horses & blankets I was going to give to them. I informed them that I did not have any & they evinced great surprise & said Mr. Palmer had told them that if they would come over & I would give them horses & blankets. I saw of course that they were laboring under a mistake, because Mr. Palmer knew as well as I did that I had none to give them. I told them that they had misunderstood him; that the probably intended to have them understand that if they would come then, that I would give them the blankets & horses when the money comes to purchase them. I satisfied them that I did not have either to issue to them. They said that whatever Mr. Palmer intended to say they could not tell but that he did say that I would give those things on their arrival there. They would not agree to stay only until Tipsey could be drove from the vicinity. They did so & then returned.
    In November Mr. Palmer saw a part of both of these bands while they came on a visit to some of their Applegate friends. While Mr. Palmer was talking to them about treating for their country an Indian from Deer Creek & one from Illinois River asked me to sit with them on a log 30 or 40 feet from where Mr. Palmer was standing. I did so when they commenced talking to me about the "fool's errand" (a literal translation) that he had sent them upon in the spring. I repeated to them what I had frequently said before that it was a mistake & said that he was now here & could explain it himself. And I called his attention to it on the spot. They heard his explanation, told him that they were not satisfied & that they would neither go to the Reserve nor receive goods from his hands. And up to the time that we left their camp they adhered to the same determination, although he told them that if they would come & make a treaty with him that they might return to their country on the next day after it was completed & remain there until ample provision was made for them on the Reserve. And any attempt that has since been made to get them there has been in direct violation of that pledge, which was afterwards accepted.
    I persuaded four of their headmen to meet me at the Fort three days after to have a long talk; they did so. And while Mr. Palmer went over the river to pursue his very worthy "investigation" as I have since learned I spent the whole day in proving to those Indians that he was not a liar (as they called him) & urging them to meet him to make a treaty. They would not, they said, ever meet him on the Reserve, but said that if he saw fit to come to the mouth of Applegate Creek that they would meet him there.
    He then refers to a lot of turnips & potatoes as exhibited in my returns; he thinks the amount too great; that he saw the Indians on their way to the Reserve but did not see any of these articles. Mr. Palmer could not have seen any of those Indians near Jacksonville on the 18th April because none of them were there. There was one family of Indians at Jacksonville at that time but they belonged to another band that reside high up on Applegate Creek. The ones that used the articles referred to belonged to the tributaries coming in on the west side of that stream & low down. The family that he saw acted as express messengers for me & the way that he happened to see them at all then was that I went to their camp in the edge of town to send one of them with a message to some Indian that I was anxious to hurry to the Reserve & he accompanied me. I have before remarked that I removed all of the Indians that were treated with at once except a part of two bands & they were prevented by sickness. These are the ones that consumed those articles. There were a large number of families one member of each at least were sick & could not be removed. The other members were not willing to leave them. I collected them the best that I could & placed them near a white resident who kept watch that none could leave without his knowledge & so could vouch for their good conduct. They remained there some time when they all came over to the Reserve. But not one of them went near to Jacksonville, but they went by a mountain trail that neither Mr. Palmer nor any other white man except myself & two or three others ever traveled up to that time. The articles were issued to & consumed by the Indians as appears by the papers referred to by him.
    He then refers in the same manner to 500 pounds of onions that were consumed by the three employees. This item seemed erroneous to me also. I asked Mr. Huddleston (his informant) if there was not some mistake about it; he said that there was not. I told him that I could not certify to its correctness unless he would state that they were actually consumed under oath. He said that he was willing to do so. I administered the oath to him & he so stated and upon it I certified to its correctness.
    He says that he also found my census report incorrect which is another reason why I was not fit for the post of Indian Agent. To show you that a census of those Indians taken a few months after might not agree I will remark that 1/12 of all the Indians that resided on the banks of Rogue River & in my [district] died in 4 months. By reference to my annual report for 1854 you will find that I state that at times there are many California Indians that come to that district. And when he was there I know that not less than 1/20 of all the Indians that he included & issued goods to actually belonged in California. They so acknowledged to me & I told Mr. Palmer of it. They were present & quitclaimed to Col. McKay their title to lands in the vicinity of Yreka & received all of the pay that they could get & they did the same to Mr. Palmer. To show that I do not mistake I will state that I know personally every Indian in the district.
    Mr. Palmer states in this report that the principal chief Jo was so sick that he could not talk much, "but what little he did say showed a want of confidence in the Agent." This chief had the consumption & was aware that he could not live long. During the time that Mr. Palmer was making a treaty at the mouth of Applegate this chief commenced sinking rapidly & he sent his daughter Mary to this treaty ground after me. She said that her father "desired to have me hear his last words & carry out the wish that they expressed." It is a custom among those Indians that when one dies all that he is possessed of is destroyed with him or her. I had made great efforts to change or do away with this custom & this chief was the first one that I could ever make an impression upon. He desired me to be present & see that his children & friends did not destroy his property but preserve it to benefit them. He had a large store of clothing, blankets &c. that they would need but he feared would destroy, horses he had several, in such cases they kill them. I did attend to it & carry out his wishes; nothing was destroyed, but after his death they were equally divided among his children. If this chief had no confidence in me as he says & so much in him why did he not entrust this which was so important to his children & to him. But he sent his daughter to Mr. Palmer's very side to ask me.
    Mr. Palmer's innuendos about grass & potato contracts & what he terms my "tampering policy with Indians" &c. I will pass without comment because I cannot do justice without indulging in terms that I do not desire to use in a communication to your Department. I am content to leave it as a question of veracity between Mr. Palmer on the one hand, the investigating committee, Judge Deady & Mr. Drew & the unanimous expression of the citizens (which he admits) & myself on the other.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 47-89.  Note that Indian Agent Samuel H. Culver was not the same person as Samuel Colver of Phoenix.



Genl. Palmer Sup. of Ind. Affairs O.T.
    Sir, About four months ago I traded with a Floras Creek Indian named Tom for a young squaw and since the Indians have been put on to the reserve here at Port Orford she has left me and come here to stay with her people chiefly through their influence and persuasion and partly I suppose from her own inclination. I came down here yesterday for the purpose of reclaiming her, and finding her unwilling to return with me and her people wishing to annul the contract, although for my part I should much prefer that the contract should stand and I keep the squaw. I learn that you have rode the horse away to Rogue River. The squaw was here several days before you left, and they should have returned the horse to me if they intended as they evidently did to break the contract.
    Will you on your return have the kindness to deliver the horse, saddle, bridle & spur to Mr. Jas. H. Saunders of this place. Besides the horse I paid the Indians twenty dollars in money and a lot of blankets, shirts, dresses and beads. As they have broke the contract contrary to my wishes or consent I think it no more than just that they should be compelled to return me the horse & money. The other things they are welcome to keep. I should much prefer myself to keep the squaw.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 283.



Hon. E. M. Barnum
    Adjutant General &c.
        General--It is with pleasure that I acknowledge the receipt of your dispatches of the 1st inst. and feel highly gratified that my returns were to you satisfactory. The blank muster rolls--together with the instructions you were pleased to furnish me--will enable me to complete my returns upon the disbanding of my company, which will likely be about the 20th inst.; having received orders to disband on the 10th. The menacing attitude of the Indians in this quarter, however, gives no encouragement to the hope of an immediate peace. Mr. Jas. Flanagan arrived here yesterday from Port Orford, and brings news [that] the Pistol River Indians have fled from the reserve at Port Orford, and have again taken the field. And what is more, that a battle was fought near the Big Bend Rogue River by Capt. Smith of Maj. Reynolds' command of regulars, in which ten men were killed and nineteen wounded. The Indian agents were in attendance and, joining to a man in the conflict, they fought side by side with the soldiers on the field. Genl. Palmer seized the musket as it fell from the hands of a soldier (when dying on the ground) and used it in a manner becoming a veteran of the war. Nathan Olney did signal service. And William Wright, with the memory of his brother's blood fresh upon his mind, entered upon this work and pursued it in a manner becoming a man avenging the death of his best friend. Capt. Smith and his men did well. The fight lasted two days. Maj. Reynolds with a force of 300 regulars came to their relief and commenced the work, at which time the Indians fled. The number of Indians killed were not ascertained. Today news has reached us that the settlers along the coast between this and Port Orford have again left their homes and fled to Port Orford for protection. This alarm was caused by the appearance of some strange Indians in the country about the Coquille, but the extent of this cause of alarm we have no means yet of judging. It is generally believed here that the war on the coast is by no means at an end. And should the Indians treat and come in, the attempt at their removal will likely be attended with great liabilities, insomuch that the cures is greatly dreaded.
General Barnum
    Salem O.T.
Oregon State Archives, Yakima and Rogue River War, Document File B, Reel 2, Document 464.




Sir
   Enclosed please find my answer to Mr. Palmer's letters and reports in which he sets forth his reasons why my acts as Agent were not correct, which I have the honor to ask your attentive perusal.
    It is extended to a greater length than I wished, but I looked over the manuscript and carefully compared it with his specifications and cannot see how any part can be stricken out. In fact I have taken great trouble to embody all that he says on each given subject and make but one answer, although in some instances he speaks of the same thing several times. In some cases I have been compelled to refer to the same thing more than once, because by his peculiar manner of reference two different answers were required.
    Whether my acts were always dictated by a sound judgment is not for me to say, though it is a source of gratification to know that they were always successful. I only claim the benefit of correct intention seconded by ample energy. I do, and always have received the benefit of all of those in the community when they transpired, the remembrance of which affords me infinite gratification and amply repays me for privations endured while in the performance of those duties.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Department of the Interior
            Washington D.C.
   
The Rogue River Indians
    To Schieffelin & Walker
1854

August 14	To	1 blanket	5.00
"		3 lbs. bread	.75
"		10 lbs. flour	1.60
15		3 lbs. bread	.75
"		cash to buy medicines	4.00
16		4½ lbs. sugar	1.35
"		2 lbs. bread	.50
17		3 lbs. coffee	1.12
19		2 lbs. sugar	.60
"		1 lb. tobacco	1.00
Sept. 11		7 lbs. flour	1.50
11		¼ tea	.25
11		thread	.25
12		1 pint molasses	.50
"		3 lbs. bread	.75
"		1 lb. sugar	.25
14		1 lb. beans	.25
"		3 lbs. bread	.75
15		3 lbs. bread	.75
"		1½ coffee	.60
16		3 lbs. bread	.75
"		2 lbs. sugar	.50
"		½ lb. tea	.50
18		1 lb. rice	.37
20		1 blanket	4.00
Oct. 8		2 lbs. sugar	.60
20		1 lb. dried apples	.30
26		18 lbs. beef	3.60
			34.59

$34
    Received at Schieffelin's & Walker's ranch, Jackson Co., Oregon T. of S. H. Culver thirty-four dollars in full of the above account which were furnished to Jo, the principal chief of the Rogue River Valley Indians, & his family at the dates mentioned in the above account.
March 10, 1855.
   
    The undersigned state on honor that they reside in the Rogue River Valley and adjoining the Indian reserve; that the said Schieffelin & Walker did furnish provisions to the said chief and his family on Mr. Culver's order at the time mentioned; that said chief and family were sick and in a destitute condition, that in the time mentioned his wife & two daughters died. And that we believe the above amount was expended in a humane and judicious manner.
   
    I certify, on honor, that the within account is correct & just, that said chief and three members of his family were sick at the time they were furnished and in a destitute condition, that the Indians requested that their chief might be provided for out of the proceeds of grass cut on this reserve.
   
$100.00
    Received at Schieffelin's and Walker's ranch, Jackson County, Oregon T. this 10th day of March 1855 of S. H. Culver one hundred dollars in full for building and completing a house on the Indian reserve at or near Evans Creek for Jo, late principal chief of the rogue River tribe of Indians, and family.
   
    The undersigned state, on honor, that they reside in the Rogue River Valley and adjoining the Indian reserve, that they know the house referred to in the above receipt to have been built, that it was contracted for by Mr. Culver while the above-named Indian Chief Jo was living & while he was very sick. That the said chief was suffering for want of a shelter, that the Indians were anxious to have a house built for their sick chief, and that we believe the above amount was expended in a manner humane and judicious.
   
    I certify, on honor, that the house referred to in the above receipt was built at the request of the said Indian Chief Jo and all of his people, that said chief was very sick at the time and would suffer for want of shelter unless it was built. That early in the year 1854 said chief and his people requested me to sell grass that grew on their reserve, and the said chief frequently said that he proposed to have the proceeds used to relieve Indians that might, by sickness or otherwise, be in a suffering condition. And as he and his family was soon reduced to such a condition, after having been of great service to both races in keeping peace, the public good and humanity required that he should be provided for out of this fund.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 40-46.



Sir
    Your letter of yesterday is received. You appear to doubt that there is a sufficient ground for the excitement existing at this place. Sir, if one half of what I have learned since my arrival as to the acts and intentions of the Indians encamped here and others in this vicinity was known to the citizens, they could not be restrained from attacking these Indians at once.
    They (these Indians) have undoubtedly determined to commence hostilities the first favorable opportunity. Three canoes from Rogue River went up the coast above this place just before my arrival. I have sent an express to Drew apprising him of the fact. Two Indians from Rogue River came to Tagonecia's lodge last night. They brought with them three guns & one revolver for the use of these Indians. The Indians here have some guns hid out in the woods. The two Indians from Rogue River informed Tagonecia & his people that the Indians on Rogue River were pretending to give up their guns to the troops, but that they gave up only those that the whites knew they had and such others as they did not need or were out of repair, but that they had a sufficient number hid in the wood besides plenty of ammunition and that they were determined to still fight. "Tagonecia & his people have determined to join them." This and other information I have procured by means of spies amongst their own people, without as yet being detected or even being suspected by the chiefs. I had a long talk with all the principal men of the village today. They talk well enough, but still I think I can see that something is not right. "It may be imagination."
    I should have made prisoners of all the head men of the different bands at this place before this, but was not seconded by Macfeely. He refused to act unless instructed by Col. Buchanan to do so. I cannot depend for aid upon the military, and I fear to call upon the citizens. I cannot therefore take such steps as I deem necessary, but only such as I have means of carrying out.
    I shall continue to gain all the information I can as to the movement of the Indians, but what better off am I as long as my hands are tied.
    If these Indians join the hostiles you must not blame me, for I have done and am still doing all in my power to prevent it, but those that should assist me in the discharge of my duty refuse to act.
    I rode over to the village today for the first time since my arrival. I am not, however, able to walk. I have been confined to my bed since my arrival until today.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Rogue River
            Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 237.




To Genl. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Port Orford
            Sir--
                Indian affairs at this point remain as when I last wrote you. Everything is quiet. About fifty-six (56) of the Coos band of Indians are yet at Coos Bay; [I] expect them here in five days from today. The encampment are apparently well established. Some little sickness in the Umpqua band caused a little disturbance--"superstition was the cause."
    The Indians here generally insist on a small supply of clothing &c. &c. With the goods taken from the Coquille last August which are still at this agency & a small bill of blankets & fruits they could all be satisfied.
    The full number on this reservation is two hundred & eighty-five (285) Inds.--seventy-six (76) men--one hundred & twenty-two (122) women & eighty-five (85) children.
    Should it be the design to keep them in this vicinity long it would suggest that a school be put in operation which could be done at very little expense. A lady's school where the women can be taught the accomplishment of needlework, dressmaking & the like & thus get them in the road to civilization. I have found it expedient to furnish a small amt. of beef this quarter yet have not furnished them with flour & beef both the same day. After they have completed their fish traps & get everything in operation they will need no beef I think.
P.S. Since writing the above a rumor has reached this office to the effect that Col. Wright's entire northern division at the Naches River was had an engagement with Kamiakin in which he (Col. Wright) was killed & two hundred (200) of his men.
    The report is not authentic & not to be strictly relied upon. I send you the only paper by express.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 242.



Mr. Palmer
    Sir, in regard to moving the Indian woman, her people was willing [and] presumed that I will get a situation on the reserve. Mr. Palmer, if you can possibly give me a situation on the reserve I will most assuredly go. You may think strange of thinking so much of an Indian woman. She is not a full blooded Indian. She is a half breed, and she is shrewd and understands business, therefore I think as greatly of her and it is hard for me to see her go away. I bought [her] of the Elk River tyee. I gave seventy fathoms of elkachic ["beads"] and fifty-seven dollars in cash. The whole amount is $238.00. I never would [have] gave so much for [her] if [I] had not expected to keep her. I am perfectly willing to marry her, and she is to marry me. I am not ashamed, Mr. Palmer, to marry her. Mr. Palmer, I hope you will give me a situation on the reserve. I understand farming and blacksmithing; this [is] my occupation, and I hope you give me a situation. Being the way that I am situated give me an answer as soon as possible.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 245.





Sir
    I sent by the last steamer (the Columbia), in charge of Mr. E. H. Beecher, eight Indians (squaws & bucks) with two infants belonging to tribes in Oregon. The agent for the Klamath River Cal. Reservation having declined to receive them, I regarded it as necessary to send them to you.
    The steamer came in at daylight in the morning & I had not time then to address you a communication on the subject.
To
    Olney Esqr.
        Indn. Agt.
            Port Orford
                O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 250.



W. H. Farrar, Esq.
    U.S. Dist. Atty.
        Dear Sir,
            I have received your request that I should give you some information in regard to the suit of Brewster vs. Dart, while I was U.S. Dist. Atty. for Oregon.
    The facts in regard to it are as follows--Mr. Brewster was a carpenter employed by Dr. Dart to erect a dwelling house for him near Milwaukie in 1851. The work was not done by contract, but he employed men & paid them, as his vouchers show, over $3000. He charged $10 per day (the usual price for master builders) for 240 days. Dr. Dart paid him about $2500, I think, and after waiting about a year, Brewster employed Mr. Wait & myself to assist him in collecting his money.
    He refused payment on the ground that he had paid all the work was worth and for other reasons, but never because the work was done for him as Superintendent of Ind. Affairs. The case came to trial, and the jury gave the Pltf. a verdict for about $2300, showing by this that they were satisfied that the work was done for Dart on his own responsibility. Indeed, the idea that it was done for him in his capacity of Superintendent was not seriously pressed till after the verdict, when Judge Nelson, somewhat strangely as was thought by us, set the verdict aside. As to Dart's being compelled to employ counsel, because I was acting for Brewster, I will simply remark that in my conversations and correspondence with him he never pretended that he refused payment because of his position, or even intimated that he desired any defense officially. That is all an afterthought, but entirely consistent with his general conduct.
    In relation to the attachment of goods belonging to the Indian Department, I recollect that when it was supposed that he was about to leave the country without paying this and other debts, it was deemed expedient to attach a lot of blankets & groceries that were stored for him, & from which he was daily making sales to the merchants and traders of Oregon. He then in order to hold the property introduced the bills of purchasing by which it appeared that they were bought by him officially. The property was then given up, though it was notoriously reported & generally believed that these, like other large quantities of goods which he sold to various merchants, were either the property of the U.S. which he was ready to sell if he could do so, or his own property which, to save it from the watchful eyes of his creditors who were following hard after him, he had covered up with the wrappers of the Indian Department.
    I do not think he ever paid a single dollar of costs to witnesses or others, and presume that all he has ever advanced was what he pretends that he paid to his friend, Hamilton.
    I trust the government will not pay him anything, because I believe his whole course here, officially, was fraudulent towards the Department. His object was to make money. I believe he has too successfully accomplished this, and I hope he will be checked in this last picayune experiment. I regret that I am obliged to witness this of one holding office under the same administration with myself, but while I am convinced of its truth, I am perfectly willing when called upon to speak plainly.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 864-867.



Sir,
    I have the honor to inform you that I have this day arrived here from Port Orford in the steamship Columbia and to acknowledge the receipt of your communications of April 19th and 21st and May 7th, also a letter under date of January 5th relative to adjustment of claim of late Superintendent Dart which had miscarried in the mail.
    The instructions and suggestions contained in yours of the 19th April written in acknowledgment of my dispatches of 11th February and 8th March detailing the operations of the Indian Department in this Territory have been duly and carefully noted.
    It shall be my aim and object to consummate the plans adopted for the colonization of the friendly Indians with the strictest economy consistent with efficiency, and no disbursements will be made or improvements effected not absolutely called for by the exigencies of the service. The precaution to put in crops and prepare land for the subsistence of the Indians upon the reservation has been taken, and it's hoped and expected that nearly if not quite sufficient cereals will be harvested for their subsistence. Due care will be taken in specifying the object of each expenditure made under the late appropriation by Congress, and the same embraced in the vouchers and abstracts.
    Owing to the heavy outlays incident upon the purchase of claims, the keeping [of] a company of armed citizens at the reservation and the removal of Indians &c., additional means are and will be required to carry out the objects in view--to the extent probably of thirty-five to forty thousand dollars within the ensuing sixty days--some considerable portion of which will be requisite to the erection of a sawmill and a flouring mill upon the Grand Ronde Reservation.
    Prompt advices will be transmitted you of all drafts drawn, and detailed reports will be forwarded, showing the operations of the Superintendency, as often as it may be possible to do so.
To
    Geo. W. Manypenny Esq.
        Comr. Ind. Affairs
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 154.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 781-783.




Copy.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
Dear Sir:
    I am about to leave the Territory for the purpose of visiting Washington City. It will be my duty as it will be my pleasure to meet any and all issues that may come up there growing out of our pending Indian difficulties, wherein the good name of Oregon shall be called in question--In a word, to hold myself accountable for my official acts. For long years we have been upon the friendliest terms. Your correspondence with General Wool indicates an unkind feeling on your part towards our people--at once assails their reputation and strikes at the interests of the Territory in the present Indian war. It would be extremely painful for me to break up our existing friendly relations, but you must easily perceive the natural result. At Washington I shall have to strike at all who are any way against us. In our last interview you led me to believe that your language in your letters to General Wool went further than you had intended, and that you regretted that fact. My desire now is that over your official signature you will so state to the Indian Department at Washington, and relieve me from the unhappy duty of placing myself in a hostile attitude, officially, towards an old and esteemed friend.
    Be pleased to address me at Washington City under cover to Gen. Lane, as soon as practicable.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 892-893.



Sir:
    The departure of the mail steamer early tomorrow (and it being now nearly midnight) leaves me no time to make a detailed report of my proceedings in the Port Orford District: I may say, however, that I reached here today at 11 a.m. with six hundred Indians from that place, on their way to the Coast Reservation. At 3 p.m. they were put en route for Oregon City, and will leave there tomorrow morning for Dayton. I start from here tomorrow, on horse, in time to reach Dayton on their arrival.
    I now regard the war in Southern Oregon as closed. All the hostile bands, with the exception of "John's"--who has about thirty warriors--and the Chetco and Pistol River Indians, numbering, perhaps, fifty warriors, have come in, and unconditionally surrendered themselves as prisoners of war. The two bands last named have sent word they will surrender, and come in, when word is sent them where to go. The old chief "John" has sent in two of his sons asking the retention of other bands at Port Orford until he can get there with his people--that he is tired of war, and has resolved to seek for peace and will submit to go on the Reservation.
    We now have at Port Orford about six hundred, and about two hundred and fifty at the mouth of Rogue River, all of whom have unconditionally surrendered. They will be escorted to the southern part of the Coast Reservation by U.S. troops, together with any of the other bands that may come in.
    I deemed it best, under all the circumstances, to transport by steamer from Port Orford here the six hundred just arrived--the views and causes of influencing that determination will be presented you in my detailed report of the operations in that district, which will be transmitted by the next mail.
    The latest intelligence from the Yakima county indicates a favorable prospect for peace. It was determined by Colonel Buchanan, the military officer in command of the district, to retain and hold all those Indians now at Port Orford as prisoners of war until they reached the Reservation, when they would be turned over to the proper officers of the Indian Department.
    The six hundred Indians just arrived, being mostly of the friendly bands, will be located on the northern portion of the Reservation, near the Siletz River. The company of troops under Captain Augur, 4th Infy., who came up with them--numbered seventy-two men--will be posted at the Grand Ronde, as a permanent post.
    I take a moment to remark that the official acts of Agent Olney have been such at Port Orford as to call for my immediate attention, and that such measures will at once be taken as to effectually shield the Indian Department on account thereof. The next mail will convey to you the specialties [sic] of the matters to which I here refer.
To
    Hon. G. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affairs
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency, 1856, frames 773-776.   The original can be found in NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 155-156.  Another original is in NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 775-778.




Sir,
    I am pleased to be able to inform you that the steamer arrived here on yesterday at 11 a.m. The Indians all well and in good spirits. Not an accident occurred to cause a doubt in the minds of the Indians; a few were seasick, but all was forgotten on entering the Columbia River. They were landed at this point and allowed time to prepare dinner and then took passage on steamer for Oregon City, and today go to Dayton. It was wholly impracticable to take a correct census. I set two men at it, but on leaving the vessel it was impossible to keep them quite long enough to do it. I will do so at Dayton and send you the result by next steamer. Capt. Augur remained at Vancouver and Lieut. Hodges accompanies the troops to the reservation where he awaits the arrival of the captain. I send back two Indian boys, a Tututni and Foo-sheet. If George, Limpy, the Cow Creeks and Galice Creeks could be induced to come up by steamer it would be well, as they are to be located on the northern end of the reservation, but the other bands would require a land transportation from this point as great as from Port Orford. It would therefore, I think, be improper to send them by steamer, for there is but little prospect of effecting a landing along the reservation. The old and decrepit of other bands might however be sent up if you are unable to obtain transportation.
    Colonel Wright is holding a council with the Indians in the Yakima country--so says report--the Nez Perces are all right. I learn that all is quiet at the Grand Ronde, where we have now assembled over fifteen hundred Indians. Upon mature reflection I have determined to suspend Agent Olney, or perhaps give him an opportunity to resign--his functions as an agent of this Dept. will cease immediately on the arrival of this steamer at Port Orford.
    Sub-Agent Metcalfe has been instructed to accompany some one of the detachments to be sent up by you to the reservation and will take charge of the Indians upon their arrival at the Siuslaw. Upon reaching suitable points for temporary encampment upon that reservation I would glad to have you direct an officer to accompany Mr. Metcalfe in examining the reservation with reference to permanent settlements for those tribes heretofore residing on Rogue River below the Big Bend, and along the coast south of Port Orford--settlements south of Tal-quona River.
    In the event of the business of this Suptcy. warranting it I will visit in person that district at an early day.
    Permit me to congratulate you and those under your command in the favorable issue of your campaign and express a hope that circumstances may be such as to enable you to return from that field to your family, leaving the country in peace and quietude, and your command to a district less hazardous and laborious.
To
    Lieut. Col. R. C. Buchanan
        4th U.S. Infantry
            Port Orford
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 156-157.



Sir,
    From the feeling manifested by the officers in the regular service towards yourself, and in view of your position generally, I am compelled to say that I think it would promote the public service were you to resign your position as Indian agent at once. I send by steamer to the care of W. Dunbar one thousand dollars to meet the outstanding liabilities incurred by you, salary &c., for which you will sign duplicate receipts and report forthwith at my office.
To
    N. Olney Esq.
        Ind. Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 157.  A copy is on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 829-830.



Sir
    I have the honor of herewith enclosing to you two letters from Aaron Dyre, one directed to yourself and the other to J. S. Rinearson in reference to damage done to the garden and meadowlands of Mr. Dyre by the horses of Rinearson's party while encamped on Elk River on their way to the Coast Reservation in charge of the Coquille Indians. He demands fifty dollars damage; whether or not he has sustained that amount of damage I am unable to say. The men of Rinearson's party will be able to inform you whether or not he has sustained a loss as stated, and if so, what amount.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Supt. Office
            Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 258.



Sir,
    I this day forward to you by special messenger, Mr. James Brown, two thousand two hundred and fifty dollars ($2250) public funds of the Indian Department for use in your agency district, with duplicate receipts written out for your signature for the amt. which, on reception of the funds, you will please sign and return to this office. These funds you will be accountable for under the following heads of account.

	For salary of sub-Ind. agent	500
	"        "       "  interpreter	250
	"    removal and subsistence	1500
		$2250

    It is of the utmost importance that all the Indians in your district be removed at the earliest practicable moment to the reservation, and the suggestion in your letter of 14th relative to the establishment of a school need not be acted upon until they arrive at their new home. You are aware that we have contemplated locating the Coos Bay and Lower Umpqua Indians on the Siuslaw River, but as that valley will at the end of twenty years be thrown out of the reservation it is I think advisable to fix their location where it would be permanent and where they can have the benefit of improvements designed to accommodate the longest population. The main settlements will be north of Cape Perpetua and consequently the public buildings, shops, schools, mills &c. will be located north of that cape. Those now residing on the Siuslaw may be permitted to remain there, and during the season preparations may be made and assistance afforded in preparing ground for crops suited to their wants.
    It is promised that a military post will be established on or near the Siuslaw, but at what point cannot be determined until after a reconnaissance is made by an officer of the government. It may however be found expedient in locating the post north of the cape, which for the objects to be attained would be very desirable, the Siuslaw being at too great a distance from the main settlements of Indians. It is expected that the first detachment (being the friendly Coquilles) will be under the direction of Capt. Rinearson, who has been assigned by me for that service, and who will proceed up the coast to some point between Yoquoua and Siletz rivers. These will be followed by other detachments escorted by U.S. troops, who are to be located between Cape Perpetua and Alsea except one detachment, who will proceed north of Siletz River. The Yoquouas and Alseas will be located either on Yoquoua or Alsea rivers or between these streams as may be found most advisable. In your intercourse with the Indians under your jurisdiction you will be careful to impress upon them the necessity of conforming to the suggestions relative to the location herein contained, and if any impression has been made going to encourage the belief that they would be permitted to reside on the Umpqua, you will at once disabuse their minds upon that point. On the arrival of Capt. Rinearson if it be practicable you will, with all the Indians at your encampment, join this party and proceed with him as far as the Siuslaw where those under your charge may remain and with the leading men or chiefs. You can proceed to examine the country north of the cape, with a view of selecting a location for the Coos Bay and Umpquas, and it is desirable to have them as near the cape as possible, and south of the other bands that may be removed from the Port Orford District. I have been greatly disappointed in not obtaining the fish seines and nets ordered from the Eastern States, but orders have been given to purchase a few in San Francisco which if obtained will enable us to afford greater facilities in taking salmon and other fish and thus supersede the necessity of purchasing beef. Mr. Clugage has been directed to deliver forty or fifty head of beef cattle, six tons of flour and forty pack animals at the mouth of Umpqua for use and to aid in removing the Indians on their way north from Siuslaw--should he arrive before Mr. Rinearson you will assist him in selecting suitable points for grazing stock north of Umpqua until the arrival of the Indians or he might proceed with them and cross the Siuslaw, returning with his pack animals to aid in transporting such Indians as are usable to travel, leaving the cattle and flour in charge of suitable persons. It would be well for him to drive a few head of cattle as far as Coos Bay to supply Indians and employees on their way up.
To
    E. P. Drew Esq.
        Sub-Ind. Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 162-163.



Sir,
    I have the honor herewith to transmit a letter written on the 10th of April, enclosing 2 letters from Agent Olney, also an extract of my letter to him under date of 24th instant written at Portland. My letter of the 10th was withheld in hopes of obtaining information disabusing my mind in regard to his acts and justifying his continuance in the service of the Indian Department, and as the services of an efficient officer was greatly required at Port Orford and having no agent or sub-agent that could be properly assigned to that duty, I instructed him to repair to that point not doubting but that even if his course had been objectionable in the Walla Walla country, he would feel desirous of reinstating himself in the confidence of the community and those who had sought to place him in the public service and stimulate him to an energetic performance of duty, but his conduct in that district has been such as to destroy all hope of an efficient and proper attention to the duties of his office. It has been so characterized by a degree of recklessness and disregard for law and order and even for the common decencies of civilized society as to wholly disqualify him for the position of an agent with a due degree of allowance for exaggeration. The information is such as to warrant me in charging him with dissipation, gambling and debauchery among the native women. With a disposition to pander to the prejudices and passions of an excited community, leading to lawless acts not only acquiring but actually encouraging and participating in violations of law, and I need instance but a single case. Prior to my arrival at Port Orford and at the invitation of Major Reynolds, a part of the Coquille Indians had come in to Port Orford and were located among the friendly bands upon the military reservation at that point; with those Indians came two men who were charged by the citizens as having two years previously been engaged with others in killing white men on the Coquille River. The citizens demanded their arrest, and one was secured and put in the guardhouse by directions of Lieut. Macfeely, in command of the military post. The other one made his escape. A few days subsequently Mr. Olney called upon Lieut. Macfeely and requested that the Indian might be turned over to him for the purpose of having a judicial investigation of his guilt or innocence. He was accordingly turned over. Mr. Olney thereupon gave him into the hands of a mob and aided in a mock trial by whom the Indian was condemned and executed. It is said that he acknowledged participating in the alleged murder, and upon that confession they passed sentence. The trial was by a self-constituted heterogening [sic] mass of citizens and miners and others. The Indian may have been guilty of the offense; he was in safekeeping and might have been retained, until the sitting of the court, in the guardhouse. Mr. Olney was at the trial, gave encouragement and counsel, and even urged the matter forward. It will be seen by my letter to him I have suggested that he should resign, but his conduct in Middle Oregon and at Port Orford merits dismissal from the service. In connection with this subject I have to say that it is exceedingly difficult securing the services of suitable persons to discharge the duties of agent or sub-agent at the rates of salary now allowed by law. There are numerous applicants, but few however can be found of sufficient capacity and clear of other objections willing to undertake such service. I hope to be able to suggest someone for appointment by the sailing of the next steamer.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affairs
            Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 164-165.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 825-828.



Territory of Oregon Yamhill County s.s.
    On this 28th day of June 1856 before the undersigned personally came Alonzo A. Skinner who being first duly sworn says that in relation to & in explanation of the accounts of Nathaniel C. Dean and John E. Ross, the former amounting to $77.50--the latter to $35.00, for expenses paid in removing Worthington Bills from Rogue River Valley to the office of the Supt. Ind. Affairs at Milwaukie by his order, that said Bills was arrested by him for attempting to incite the Indians of Rogue River Valley to hostility against the whites. That the amount though stated in the account to have been received of Anson Dart Supt. Ind. Affairs was not so received of him, nor has the money ever been paid to said Dean & Ross but that he (the said Skinner) has become personally responsible to them for the amount of their accounts respectively. That Supt. Dart had thentofore [sic] paid accounts of a similar character connected with & growing out of the same transaction, and that it was for that reason the receipts above referred to were taken in the name of the Supt. Ind. Affairs, and not of himself, with the view of having the amount so assumed by him paid to him by the Supt. & by him paid to said Dean & Ross, and the account rendered by the Supt. and not by himself.
Subscribed & sworn to before me this 28th day of June 1856.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 876-878.




Sir:
    Agreeably to your instructions I proceeded so far as I could to settle and pay the outstanding liabilities of this Agency.
    With reference to the unpaid claims against the Indian Department, contracted by the late agent Mr. S. H. Culver, I have to report that I deemed it my duty, as directed by you, to take in all cases before payment was made the evidence of truthful and disinterested persons to enable me to determine the equity and correctness of the demands. This was faithfully done. None were paid but such as I was satisfied from the proofs rightfully should be paid out of the funds in my hands, and such as in every respect were just and correct. After taking the testimony, coupled with my own personal knowledge of many of the facts establishing their justness, I did not feel at liberty to curtail the amounts but paid them in full.
    In regard to the potato contract, which had been suggested as possibly either fraudulent or that the claim growing out of it was exorbitant, I am happy as well on account of the honor of the parties involved as in justice to truth to say it was clearly shown that the transaction was characterized in every particular by honesty and good faith in the agent and contracting parties. The price I found reasonable and the whole affair attended as well by economy as a prudent foresight and careful regard for the welfare of the Indians.
    It most satisfactorily appears that the price agreed to be paid for the labor done and material furnished in and about the breaking of the ground, furnishing of the seed and planting of the crop was no more than a fair equivalent. I was at the time fully cognizant of most of the facts as they transpired, living as I did near at hand, & I think it but just to say that my own convictions, all along entertained, of the correctness of the claims, and the good faith of the entire transaction, have been amply confirmed by my official inquiries in the premises.
    It may not be improper to add, as well to do justice to yourself who ordered it as to Mr. Culver, who carried out the order, that the expenditure on account of that crop of potatoes was most wisely incurred, inasmuch as it was not only deemed necessary at the time but resulted in furnishing, at comparatively a trifling cost to the government, the principal means of subsistence to several hundred Indians during the following severe winter. Without the aid of the potatoes thus obtained for food, I doubt not they would have greatly suffered. In their destitution they would have scattered through the adjacent settlements to the prejudice of the peace of the country and their own injury.
    In conclusion on the subject generally of claims within the lands of this Agency, I have to say that while they are not entirely paid, the balance of them is but small in amount, and they remain unsettled mainly by reason that many of the claimants have left the district and gone during the late disturbances to other parts of the country.
    My quarterly returns for the second quarter of the current year will show the condition of the Agency, and I am not aware that any further explanation is necessary.
Joel Palmer Esq.
    Supt. Indian Affairs
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 255.




Sir,
    On my arrival from Port Orford a few days since I found your letter of 12th ultimo inquiring as to whether the Umpqua Reservation was merely temporary "and whether it was now abandoned" &c., in reply to which I have to say that the tract designated by the treaty of 29th November 1854 as an Indian reservation has been abandoned, so far as any action of the Indians or this Suptcy. is answered. I am not aware that there has been any action of Congress upon that subject; nor do I know that it is requisite, but that tract having been declared a reservation by the notification of the treaty may require some congressional action to render it subject to entry and settlement, but none in my opinion to change existing regulations relative to surveys.
To
    J. S. Zieber Esq.
        Surveyor Genl.
            Salem O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 179.



Sir
    Upon the receipt of funds I offered to settle with Peter Daugherty for the amount of beef purchased from him by you and turned over to me. He claimed 20 cts. per lb., which I refused to allow him, as I was of opinion 15 cts. was the price agreed upon. As we cannot agree I must beg leave to turn the matter over to you. I have accounted for the beef as received from you. Enclosed please find duplicate receipts covering the amount turned over to me.
Gen. Joel Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Office Supt. Ind. Affrs.
            Dayton
                O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 257.



Sir
    You have been appointed by the Supt. Indian Affairs as conductor and local agent for the Indians now residing and to be located upon that portion of the Coast Reservation between the mouth of Salmon River and fifteen miles south of Siletz River, and extending east an average distance of twelve miles. The first object that will claim your attention will be the removal of the coast bands now encamped at Dayton to the mouth of Salmon River or in the vicinity or around Fresh Lake, and for this object you will take charge of the emigrating party and conduct them to that point. Sixteen ox teams, two yoke to each team, will be furnished at Dayton and if possible additional ones at the Grand Ronde. With this number it is believed you will be able to carry all the property belonging to the Indians, the old, infirm and helpless and rations of flour for twelve days. Care should be used and allow the aged and infirm to occupy seats low in the wagon beds, and that they may not be crowded out by able and healthy persons and left to perish on the road. As soon as practicable you will correct the ration list and so arrange that each family will draw from the company the proportion of provisions to which they may be entitled instead of relying upon the chiefs to distribute it. The ration of flour may for the present be one pound per day to each person, not including infants, and one pound of fresh beef to each of the same class, together with a reasonable quantity of salt. The flour will be furnished you on the way and at Grand Ronde; from thence you will cause its transportation in the baggage wagons to your encampment on the coast. The beef cattle will be driven along by Mr. Fuller & Stewart and slaughtered from time to time as you may want.
    It is desirable to throw the subsistence of these Indians upon their own exertions and resources as far as possible and for this end you will seek to induce them as soon as they reach the reservation to contribute something by way of hunting, fishing, gathering berries, roots &c. The object is to locate those people at or near Siletz River, but for a first encampment and until the arrival of other bands they may be placed at any point deemed by you suited to their condition and the convenience of attaining to ensure peace and good order.
    Lieut. Hazen with a detachment of twenty U.S. troops will accompany you to the coast, and you will cooperate with that officer in such arrangements relative to travel, encampments and the general government of the emigrating party as will best tend to promote peace, ensure good order and facilitate the removal of those Indians. Mr. Wm. Chance will accompany you and act as commissary and aid you in all proper duties; he will be regarded as assistant conductor and remain with you until further instructed. You will retain two yoke of cattle which with the wagon now at the mouth of Salmon River will enable you to transmit your supplies and do other hauling at that point. The balance of the teams you will cause to return immediately. Mr. Jeffries will be instructed to examine the country north of Salmon River. You will render him such assistance as to enable him to fulfill his mission. Should Capt. Rinearson arrive at or near your camp before my arrival you will inform him that it is my wish to have the Coquilles placed south of Siletz River--but for a temporary encampment it is not material as to the particular point; he will remain with them until my arrival or until further advised. The flour turned over to you has been purchased by direction from this office; you will therefore sign and forward me duplicate receipts and be particular in your distributions and secure accurate provision returns. You will call upon Sub-Agent Raymond for axes and other tools to use in perfecting the wagon road, receipting to him for the same. The beef delivered you by Mr. Fuller and Stewart as per contract will be certified to by you, showing the quantity slaughtered each day, and at the end of each month a certificate given by you of the aggregate amount used during the month. Monthly returns of provisions issued, properly certified to and witnessed, must be forwarded in duplicate to this office. You will keep me advised of matters at short intervals.
To
    C. M. Walker Esq.
        Conductor & Local Agt.
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 177-179.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 1162-1165.



Dear Sir,
    With this I send you my report in the matter of the claim made by Anson Dart.
    I endeavored to obtain the information requisite to enable me to arrive at an opinion without traveling to Oregon City, but did not succeed. I have, therefore, made a bill or a/c for services &c., which I enclose, presuming no objection will be made to the payment thereof. If this is a species of service required by the govt. of its officers without making them compensation, I must be content.
    You will find I report against the allowance of Dart's claim. I don't know the man personally, but from what I can glean respecting his official and private transactions in Oregon, he must have defrauded the govt. of a large sum of money by false and fraudulent charges and vouchers.
Gen. Joel Palmer
     Dayton O.T.
   
Sir:
    Your communication of the 14th of May, enclosing sundry papers respecting a claim preferred by Anson Dart, growing out of the action Brewster vs. Dart, was duly received. With this I return you those papers. I have made as thorough an examination of the case as is possible, and have arrived at the conclusion that the claim made upon the government by Dart is not meritorious, and ought not to be paid in whole or in part.
    The transcript of the record exhibits that this action was entered in court at March term 1853. The pleadings were made up, and the cause tried at the entry term.
    The jury rendered a verdict for the plaintiff, Brewster, for the sum of $2496.24. Deft. Dart moved for a new trial. The court granted the motion, but based upon grounds I regard as erroneous.
    Dart applied at this stage of the case for a continuance, and obtained it. The next term of the court was in Oct. 1853. Dart was not ready for trial and moved for a continuance, which the court overruled, and Deft. excepted. Subsequently, at the same term, Dart renewed his motion and succeeded in obtaining a continuance of the action.
    The transcript of the record does not show that any action was had by either party at the spring or autumn terms of the court. An examination of the papers in the case, on file in the clerk's office, shows that the case was called for trial at the March term 1854. Dart then procured another continuance.
    At the autumn term (1854) Dart again had a continuance of the action.
    At March term 1855 this case was dismissed, and an entry was made that each party should pay his own costs.
    I assign the following reasons for the conclusion at which I have arrived.
    In answering Brewster's declaration in the writ, Dart should have pleaded that he, in his official capacity, employed the Pltf. to the work made the subject matter of the suit. This he did not do. He pleaded the general issue, payment &c., thus admitting his individual liability, so far as the pleadings, if a jury should find against him.
    In a letter of Dart to Amory Holbrook, of Sept. 28th, 1852, he declares that "Brewster did the work of building the house under a contract. The Pltf.'s declaration, and Deft.'s answer, negated this statement.
    At the trial of the action at March term 1853, Mr. Dart did not attempt to prove a contract with Brewster to build the house, but maintained he had paid Pltf. for the full value of the work.
    In the same letter to Holbrook, Dart asserts that the contract price agreed for the work was two thousand dollars.
    In his answer or plea he fails to set up this as a defense.
    This letter to Holbrook I have seen--it was written by Dart.
    In September 1852 Dart proposed in writing to submit the whole matter in dispute to three disinterested men, to be chosen in the usual manner.
    His proposition was accepted, and he then declined to fulfill the proposition.
    I understand Dart to have represented to the Indian Bureau that he has paid the costs made in this suit. This is not true. A portion of the taxable costs have not yet been paid.
    In March 1853 some ten dollars of costs were paid, which I find were paid for and on account of Brewster. Dart has not paid any legal, taxable costs--not one dollar.
    A large proportion of the costs in this case were created by Dart, and at those terms of court when he was wholly unprepared for trial and applied for continuances.
    The papers--the writs of subpoena--show that he was grossly negligent and dilatory in procuring the attendance of his witness, generally delaying the matter until after the commencement of the several terms of court.
    I have endeavored to find Brewster, in order to obtain from him copies of letters and orders sent him by Dart, but am unable to find him. He left the country, as I learn, before the dismissal of the action.
    Among the papers on file in the case I find a letter from Dart to Brewster, of which the following is a copy:
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 869-875.  Copy on NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 269.



Sir
    Referring to my letter of June 23rd, I have now the honor to submit a report of my doings in the late trip to Port Orford.
    You were previously advised of my intention to visit that district of country, in order, if possible, to induce the Indians inhabiting that region to come to terms and close the war in Southern Oregon. Previous to leaving for that district, I directed sub-Indian Agent Metcalfe to take with him two Indians of the Rogue River tribe, then at the Grand Ronde, to act as messengers, and proceed to the Rogue River Valley, and, if possible, have an interview with George and Limpy, two noted war chiefs, with directions to meet me with their people at Port Orford. He was then to proceed to Illinois Valley and confer with old chief John, the reputed leading war chief of Southern Oregon, and if possible to induce him and his band to meet the other tribes at Port Orford, and go with them to the Coast Reservation.
    I took passage on the steamer Columbia on the 14th ult., accompanied by W. H. Wright as messenger, and arrived at Port Orford on the 16th.
    Colonel Buchanan, in command of the regular troops operating in that district, had been absent some time, and for several days no intelligence had been received as to his whereabouts, and as it was expected that a pack train would be in for supplies within a few days, and [with] the uncertainty of finding the command, I determined to await the arrival of the train, and made use of the time in conferring with the Indians assembled at Port Orford and sending messengers to scattering bands who had not been engaged in hostilities. A considerable number of the Lower Coquille bands had been once induced to come in, but by the meddlesome interference of a few squaw men and reckless disturbers of the peace, they were frightened and fled the encampment. A party of miners and others, who had collected at Port Orford, volunteered, pursued and attacked those Indians near the mouth of Coquille, killing fourteen men and one woman, and taking a few prisoners. This was claimed by them as a battle, notwithstanding no resistance was made by the Indians. A portion of this band were yet in the mountains, and the Upper Coquilles were nearly all at their old homes or skulking in that vicinity. Before my arrival Agt. Olney had sent messengers to those bands, and information had been recd. that those living near the coast were coming in. I dispatched messengers to all the upper bands, and on the 22nd they came into camp and expressed a willingness to remain at any point which might be designated. In reply to questions asked those who had previously been there and fled why they left, [they] replied that they were told that one object in getting them there was to put them to death. This impression, by them, appeared to be very well verified, for among the number who first surrendered of this band were two Indians who had been charged with participating in the murder of two white men two years previous. The citizens demanded their arrest. One was taken and delivered to Lieut. Macfeely, commandant at Port Orford, and was put by him in the guard house; the other made his escape. A few days after, Agt. Olney requested the lieut. to permit him to take the Indian before a civil officer for examination, which request was complied with, when the Indian was turned over by the agt. to a mass meeting of the people assembled for that purpose, tried, condemned and immediately executed, by hanging. (It is proper, however, to state that the Indian is alleged to have confessed his guilt through an interpreter and very likely deserved death, but that could give no justification for the act of the agt. in turning him over and aiding a mob in thus unlawfully condemning and executing him. [I will in another communication advert to the acts of this agent and suggest such action as I think the public service requires.])
    On the 20th the pack train from Col. Buchanan's command arrived at Port Orford, but did not leave before the 24th. I availed [myself of] the opportunity to accompany the escort with this train as far as the mouth of Rogue River, when, with Agt. Olney, W. H. Wright, S. L. McPherson and three Port Orford Indians, we proceeded in advance to the point on Illinois River said to be Col. Buchanan's camp. This we reached, over a mountain trail, on the morning of the 27th, but found the camp deserted. Following down the river to its junction with Rogue River we found a part of the col.'s command.
    Whilst encamped on Illinois River, Col. B. had succeeded in inducing the chiefs of all the bands in Southern Oregon engaged in hostilities, including old John's, George's and Limpy's, to come into council, where, with the exception of John's band, all had agreed to come in, give up their arms, and go to the reservation. John was willing to make peace, but would not agree to leave his country, but would live and die in it. An agreement was made by which Capt. Smith and Lieut. Sweitzer, with their companies, were to meet George's, Limpy's, Cow Creeks, and Galice Creek bands in four days at the Big Bend of Rogue River and escort them to the northern end of the Coast Reservation by way of Fort Lane. Other companies were to meet at the coast, and some of the Rogue River bands at a point near the Mikonotunne village, six miles below the mouth of Illinois River, and escort them to the Coast Reservation by way of Port Orford. In accordance with this arrangement, Capt. Smith and Lieut. Sweitzer went to the point indicated and Capt. Augur proceeded in the direction to the lower encampment. Major Reynolds was ordered to take the trail leading to Port Orford, expecting to meet Capt. Ord with the pack train of supplies and escort them to a point where the trails diverge to the respective encampments, with a view of forwarding supplies to the different companies.
    The colonel had accompanied Capt. Augur's company to the top of the mountain, where a messenger informed him of my arrival at the river camp and that the pack train had taken another trail. This rendered it necessary that he should change his plans, which he done, by ordering the companies of Major Reynolds & Capt. Smith back. About this time a messenger from Capt. Smith's camp informed him that they expected an attack from the Indians in that quarter. The messenger was sent back and the Col.'s or Capt. Augur's companies returned to (opposite) the mouth of Illinois River, which is some 7 miles below the Big Bend, or Capt. Smith's encampment. This point was reached at sunset. In the evening quite a number of canoes filled with Indians came up the river, many of whom appeared anxious to pass on to the Big Bend; others were merely wishing to fish; others desired to inform the upper bands of my arrival, &c. A guard was placed at the river bank and none allowed to pass up; quite a number remained with us through the night. In the morning we had a talk with the Port Orford Indians, from whom we learned that John had about one hundred warriors, who had resolved upon attacking Capt. Smith's command, but as there were about ninety men in the two companies with a howitzer no uneasiness was felt as to their safety. On the morning of the 28th Capt. Augur was directed to open a trail up the river to the Big Bend, but soon after he left, the messenger, who had the day previous returned to Capt. Smith's camp, arrived and reported that those companies were and had been during the night engaged in a fight with the Indians, that the camp was entirely surrounded by them, and that he was unable to approach it. Capt. Augur was immediately recalled and directed to take two days' rations and proceed to reinforce Capt. Smith. With Agt. Olney & W. H. Wright I accompanied Capt. Augur, reaching the Big Bend at 4 o'clock, p.m., where we found the Indians assembled to the number of perhaps two hundred, and the camp entirely surrounded. A charge was made by Capt. Augur, & the Indians gave way, when Lieut. Sweitzer charged those in the rear of his camp, driving them from their position, and the rout became general. The Indians left the field, when the camp was moved to a more eligible position. The engagement had lasted about 36 hours, the last twelve of which the army was without water. Seven men and one Indian ally were killed and eighteen men wounded, one of which mortally up to the time of our arrival. In the charges made by Capt. Augur two men were killed and three wounded. Previous to the engagement two women, wives of Chief Elijah, who is now with Sam's band on the Grand Ronde Reservation, came into Capt. Smith's camp and remained during the entire siege. On the morning of the 29th I sent those two women as messengers to George and Limpy to advise them to come in and comply with the demand made by Col. Buchanan. They returned on the same day with an Indian on horseback who desired an interview with me. I met him outside of camp. He finally came in, and I sent by him a message to George and Limpy, as the women had failed seeing them, but brought a report that the volunteers had attacked their camp, killed George and several others, and had taken several women and children prisoners; but later in the day one of those said to have been killed came with my messenger, who returned and informed me that George had made his escape, but that "one man and one woman had been killed, and one man wounded, and that George and Limpy would be here tomorrow." On the morning of the 30th a messenger was sent to the Cow Creeks, another to the Galice Creeks, and to John's band.
    In the evening George and Limpy with their people came into camp, gave up their guns, and submitted as prisoners of war. They denied being in the recent engagement, and said they would have been in sooner, but John threatened if they attempted it he would shoot them. On the 31st Major Latshaw, with one hundred and fifty volunteers, reached the Big Bend, from the Meadows and remained until the 1st June and then returned. They had taken a number of women and children prisoners. I requested that they might be turned over to me, as the men to whom the women and children belonged were prisoners in our camp. This was denied, with an avowal, on the part of the major, [that] they should not leave his command until they were turned over to his superior officer, and declared that if they attempted to make their escape, or if they (his company) were attacked by other Indians, he would put them all to death, he alleging also in his conversation that the same bands which we were then getting in might have been got in three months ago upon the same conditions that they were coming into us, but that their orders were to take no prisoners.
    On the 9th Genl. Lamerick, in command of the volunteers, arrived at the Big Bend, bringing the women and children previously taken by Major Latshaw, accompanied by Sub-Agt. Metcalfe and the two Indians from the reservation. On Genl. Lamerick's arrival at the Meadows, from which he had been absent some time, he turned those prisoners over to Mr. Metcalfe, and on reaching the Big Bend they were immediately placed under the care of Col. Buchanan with other bands, which had numbered by this time two hundred and sixty five souls.
    On the 2nd of June Major Reynolds and Capt. Augur were directed with their companies to follow down the river as far as the mouth of Illinois [River], and retain possession of that post and collect any scattering Indians which might be found in that vicinity. These companies were accompanied by Capt. Bledsoe & his company of volunteers, who had been operating along the coast between Port Orford and Chetco. Major Reynolds was to remain at the mouth of Illinois River, Capt. Augur to pass down the north, and Capt. Bledsoe down the south bank of Rogue River to the Indian village below, and after interrogating them as to their feelings and intentions in relation to coming under the arrangement with Col. Buchanan & if evidence of a refusal so to do was apparent, they were to attack them. Otherwise they were to receive them in accordance with previous arrangements. Statements of Indians then in our camp went to show that a considerable number of the bands down the river were engaged in the fight against Capt. Smith, and that they had determined upon violating the pledge given Col. Buchanan at Oak Flats on Illinois River. About 5  miles below the Big Bend of Rogue River is a village of Cistocootes [Shasta Scoton] Indians, who were understood to be among the number recently engaged against Capt. Smith, but who professedly had gone below to await the arrival of Capt. Augur. Upon arriving at the village the advance of these detachments discovered a few Indians on an island in the river who, upon being called to, attempted to flee, when they were fired upon, and three Indians and one woman [were] killed; the others made their escape down the river. The village was then burned and the troops proceeded to the mouth of Illinois River, where they remained during the night. On the 3rd, Capts. Augur and Bledsoe proceeded as before indicated, and upon reaching the Indian encampment a few were seen in canoes, who were hailed, but sought to make their escape; a fire was opened upon them by Capt. Augur's company, and in a few minutes a general attack was made upon the encampment, the Indians fleeing into the river and attempting to cross, but were met by Capt. Bledsoe's company of volunteers. Fourteen Indians were killed in this attack & a number (men, women and children) were supposed to be drowned in their attempt to escape, being at the head of a long rapid in the river, which was very rocky and rough. Very little resistance was made by the Indians; no one of the companies receiving the least wound from them. Capt. Augur then proceeded to the camp designated as the point to receive the Indians (having sent a messenger directing them when and where to meet the camp.)
    On the 10th, Col. Buchanan moved his entire camp in the direction of Port Orford, escorting the Indians who at that date had collected to the number of 277 souls. (In the meantime, having recd. information that considerable excitement existed among the citizens & Indians at Port Orford, and having a general stampede among those Indians, I directed Agt. Olney on the 6th to return to that point.) Leaving the command of Col. Buchanan, I proceeded and joined that of Capt. Bledsoe. On the evening of the 10th, a part of the Indians had already come in and delivered up their arms. On the 11th additional messengers were sent, and on the morning of the 12th, 421 Indians had joined Capt. Augur's camp. This, with the 277, made an aggregate of 698 souls, which on the 13th took up the line of march to Port Orford. Whilst at Capt. Augur's camp, two sons of old chief John came in to ascertain the condition upon which his band would be received. By them I sent a message reiterating the conditions offered by Col. Buchanan, and explaining to them the advantage likely to accrue to the tribe by yielding to the terms, which were to come and go to the Coast Reservation under an escort of U.S. troops. The young men (John's sons) agreed to use their influence to induce this band to come in, and to give the chief the benefit of a full knowledge of the treatment extended to the Rogue River Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation. One of the messengers who came with Mr. Metcalfe from the Grand Ronde, and with whom the old chief was intimately acquainted, was sent to have an interview with him. The impression of this messenger was that John and his entire band would come in, and a day was fixed for them to repair to the mouth of Rogue River, a point to which Major Reynolds, Capt. Jones, and Lieut. Drysdale with their respective companies were respectively directed to repair and meet them and the Chetcos, Pistol River band, and a few of those residing along Rogue River, below the Cosotoul village. These bands with those already surrendered comprise the entire hostile parties in Southern Oregon. The encampment of John's party was said to be in the forks below Illinois and Rogue rivers a distance, owing to the nature of the country requiring from 4 to 6 days to go and return with their people to the point indicated. Having adjusted these matters, I returned with my party to Port Orford, where I found the people, Ind. agt. and Indians equally jealous and suspicious of each other. A few Indian women claimed by white men had circulated a report that spies were in the habit of coming from Rogue River and visiting the Indian encampment at Port Orford during the night, and that a plot had been matured by which they were to attack and destroy first the town and next the garrison, and that these Indians had proceeded up the coast for the purpose of effecting a combination among the Coos Bay and Umpqua Indians. Agt. Olney appeared so well satisfied of the truth of this report that he reported the matter to me by express messenger, and had sent an express up the coast to Sub-Agent Drew informing him of the matter and reporting that a volunteer company, which had been stationed at Coos Bay, and which had previously made application to me tendering their services to aid in removing the Indians (see paper marked A), and which services I had refused to accept, and recommended a dismissal of (see paper B), should not be disbanded as their services doubtless would be required. This matter had somewhat subsided, and matters remained comparatively  quiet until after the arrival of Col. Buchanan with his command and the Indian prisoners, when the lovers of excitement succeeded in creating another fresh one, which for a time seemed to threaten abortion to all hopes of effecting a reconciliation. Upon this occasion I visited the Indians' encampment, collected the chiefs, explained to them the report that I had heard, and requested them that they would deliver themselves unconditionally to me and go to the fort and remain during the night said to be fixed upon for the attack. They consented without hesitation. In the morning they were allowed to return to their camp. Very many believed a plan had been arranged among these tribes to cut off the garrison and town and cooperate with those in the field, but I am satisfied the whole thing was concocted by evil-disposed persons to cause a stampede among the Indians, and as a mutual fear existed between the parties, a trifling report caused the alarm. Fearing that similar and more serious and successful efforts would be made to cause a rupture with these bands, and the fact that quite a number were unable from old age and sickness to travel by land, and the absence of the necessary means to transport provisions for so great a number of Indians, I deemed it better to transport [them] by steamer to Portland, thence by river boats to Dayton, from whence they could be transported by teams belonging to the Department to the coast. Another consideration inducing this step was the limited amount of rations at Port Orford and the delay and great expense attending its procurement. The slow rate at which we should have had to travel with this band would have required nearly one month to reach the destined encampment. Rations for that time would necessarily have to be transported, the cost of which alone would have been no inconsiderable amount.
    The passage here from Port Orford was agreed upon at ten dollars per head (usual steerage fare twenty dollars), not counting infants, which fare was to include rations and the transportation of baggage. They were put on board in a hurry and their number could not accurately be taken, but were estimated at six hundred; a subsequent enumeration gives seven hundred and ten souls (199 men, 266 women, 127 boys,  118 girls--ninety five of the boys & girls are infants.)
    The passage fare from Portland to Oregon City was five hundred dollars, and from thence to Dayton five hundred and fifty dollars.
    With the exception of the Upper Coquille bands, all those who have been congregated at Port Orford during the war came up on the steamer, as did also the Euchres and a part of the Joshutes, Mikonotunnes, Techaquit, Klauttaltes, Tututni, Cosatomy, Scotons and Cow Creek Umpquas.
    These bands have been engaged in the late hostilities, and a few had taken a very active part in the murder of our citizens and burning and destroying property at the commencement of hostilities in the war of Rogue River. They had, however, yielded & given up their arms and submitted as prisoners of war, with a pledge from the military officers of a sate conduct to the reservation.
    Very many of those people were in a very destitute condition, their property and effects being chiefly burned with their villages. This consideration had, doubtless, its effect in inducing them to submit to terms. Those who had remained friendly and stationed at Port Orford, owing to the confinement and entire absence of means to obtain clothing, were destitute of essential articles to appear decent, much less comfortable. The goods given them at the time of the treaty had nearly all disappeared, and very many of the bands were nearly in a state of nudity. Upon arriving at Portland I purchased such goods as their necessities required and demanded, directing their shipment to Dayton, where they are now being distributed to the individual members of the families. The non-arrival of a part of their goods will prevent their departure to the coast before Monday the 7th. They are generally in good health and appear well pleased with the trip, but anxious to reach the point of destination, to see their future home. In coming up the coast the steamer had neared the beach along the upper line of the reservation, and the appearance of the country appeared to give them great satisfaction & encouragement. They viewed the point designated as their home with great interest and appeared well pleased with its prospects. They obeyed cheerfully every requirement, and if the proper interest is shown we have nothing to fear from these people.
    It is expected that such of those left at Port Orford and those that may come in who are unable to travel by land on foot will be sent up by steamer, the expense being less than to hire animals to be used for such service. Prior to my leaving home, I directed Capt. Rinearson with a party of eight men to proceed by land to Port Orford, taking with him horses to transport provisions and aid in removing Indians to the reservation; he was at the point in due time, where I left him to take charge of and remove the upper bands of Coquilles; they were to have started on the 30th ult. Col. Buchanan contemplated forwarding different detachments in the direction of the reservation as soon as those bands were collected.
    The first effort made to induce the Indians to come up by steamer was met by great opposition, but when told that I would accompany them and that the trip would be performed in so short a time, and this mode contrasted with the time and hardships attending the trip up the trail, they yielded, and a greater number came than I had at first designed taking.
    A difference of opinion may be entertained as to the kind of treatment the prisoners should receive at our hands. It is evident to me that a proper discrimination should be made between them and those who have remained friendly. The degree of guilt in instigating the insurrection and the part each took in the first outrages perpetrated against our people should also be taken into consideration.
    The importance of closing this war before the periodical drought, which would enable the enemy, with comparative little risk to themselves, to destroy entire settlements, and the great difficulty in prosecuting a war against such a people in a mountainous region, may be regarded as justifying less stringent measures with the enemy than many would deem proper.
    The future management of these Indians and the maintenance of peace hereafter should not be lost sight of in the adoption of measures for the present.
    The unconditional surrender of these Indians to Col. Buchanan had, coupled with it, a condition that they were to go to the Coast Reservation under an escort of U.S. troops, and that of course implied protection. A detail of what was to follow, of course, was not discussed, and the arrest and trial of all the leaders in the attack last made could not be construed by us as a breach of faith, but it would doubtless be implied by some as such. An example, however, made of some of the principal leaders by a trial and punishment would undoubtedly have a salutary influence, but if such were contemplated, that examination and trial, in my opinion, should be made by the Military Department prior to their removal to and location on the reservation. If they refuse to surrender upon conditions that they shall give up their leaders for trial and punishment, it is good evidence that they are not whipped. If they are received without any such expressed conditions, but upon terms which they construe as overlooking the past, it will undoubtedly require additional military force for a few years to ensure their good conduct. An entire reparation from whites, except such as are employed in the service, with discreet, just, and proper agents to constantly watch over them, may reduce them to a state of quietude and order.
Hon.
    Geo. W. Manypenny,
        Commissioner Ind, Affrs.
            Washington City
                D. C.
NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency, 1856, frames 782-804.   A few corrections were made from the copy in the Superintendency letter books, NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 167-176.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 784-806.




Orders   )
No. 6     )
    I . . . The war heretofore existing in this District having been closed by the surrender of the several hostile Indian bands, the following distribution of the troops will be made, in obedience to instructions from the Commanding General of the Department.
    Compy. "C" 1st Dragoons, Capt. A. J. Smith, will proceed via Fort Lane to take post at the upper pass to the Coast Reservation, halting long enough at the former Post to allow the necessary arrangements for the change of station to be made, and for the settlement of unfinished public business. Asst. Surgeon C. H. Crane will accompany the command to its new Post and 1st Lieut. N. B. [Nelson Bowman] Sweitzer 1st Dragoons, as far as Fort Lane, where he will turn over his public property to 1st Lieut. E. Underwood 4th Infy., and then from his proper company.
    Compy. "B" 3rd Arty., Capt. E. O. C. Ord, will proceed to Benicia Cal. taking passage on the steamer Columbia on her next downward trip.
    Compy. "F" 4th Infy., Capt. D. Floyd-Jones, will proceed on the Columbia on her next upward trip to escort George and Limpy's bands, and the Lower Rogue River Indians, via Portland, to the Coast Reservation, and having turned them over to the Indian Department will take post at the upper pass.
    Compy. "H" 3rd Arty., Bvt. Major J. F. Reynolds, with the detachment of "E" 4th Infy., 2nd Lieut. J. G. Chandler, 3rd Arty., will move on Wednesday the 9th inst. to escort Old John's band, the Pistol River and Chetco Indians to the Coast Reservation, and they having been turned over to the Indian Department Compy."C" will take post near the mouth of the Siuslaw River. The detachment of Compy. "E," having performed such further escort duty as may be requisite to guard the Indians to their several locations, will rejoin its proper company. Asst. Surgeon J. J. Milhau will accompany the command.
    The sick and wounded, in hospital, will remain at this Post, under the medical care of Asst. Surgeon P. Glisan, until further orders from the Headquarters of the Department. The necessary attendants will be left with them.
    II . . . 1st Lieut. R. Macfeely 4th Infy. A.A.Q.M., will furnish the necessary transportation for the commands of Captains Ord and Floyd-Jones, making a separate contract for the passage fare of the Indians to Portland. Capt. Floyd-Jones will perform the duties of A.A.C.S. & A.A.Q.M. to his command, and furnish transportation from Portland.
    2nd Lieut. G. P. Ihrie will assign the requisite proportions of his pack train to the command of Capt. Smith and Major Reynolds, and as soon as the services of any portion of the hired part can be dispensed with, it will be at once discharged.
    III . . . Until further orders, Compys. "D" 3rd Arty. & "E" 4th Infy. will continue to garrison Fort Jones Cal. and Compy. "D" 4th Infy. Fort Lane O.T. The detachments from the companies now in the field will rejoin their former Posts.
    IIII . . . The commanding officer of the District cannot separate from those troops that have formed his command in the field, without acknowledging his obligations to officers and men for their ready, cheerful and energetic efforts to perform the duties assigned them, which have resulted, under Providence, so creditably to themselves, and beneficially to our country. The result of the campaign is the best evidence of the value of their services.
    He takes this opportunity to return his thanks to the officers of his staff, 2nd Lieut. J. G. Chandler 3rd Arty. A.A.A.G., 1st Lieut. R. Macfeely 4th Infy. A.A.C.S. & A.A.Q.M. at this Depot, 2nd Lieut. G. P. Ihrie 3rd Arty. A.A.C.S. & A.A.Q.M. to the troops in the field, Asst. Surgeon E. H. Crane and J. J. Milhau, on duty in the field, and Asst. Surgeon R. Glisan in charge of the General Hospital, for the prompt and efficient manner in which they discharged their various duties.
    He also takes great pleasure in acknowledging the valuable services of Genl. Joel Palmer, Superintendent of Indian Affairs, whose presence in our camp, and judicious exertions contributed, in a great degree, to produce the rapidity with which the various bands of the enemy surrendered themselves.
    To one and all of those who have served with him, the Commanding Officer offers his kindest wishes for their future welfare.
To
    Genl. J. Palmer
        Supt. Ind. Affairs
            Oregon Ty.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 849-852.  The original can be found on NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, no number.




NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 845-846.  The original can be found on NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, no number.



    THE INDIANS IN SOUTH OREGON.--The Oregonian of June 28th says:
    It is said that the Indian war in Southern Oregon is at an end. We hope this is so. If the 600 specimen Indians from that region, which passed through this city last week, under charge of Superintendent Palmer, are the sort of warriors to contend against, we wonder it has lasted so long. They were mostly either old decrepit specimens of the race or filthy squaws and naked children. We noticed but few among the whole number able to bear arms, carry a torch or run away. Our opinion is that these were sent off to enable to real warriors the better to plunder and lay waste the country. This idea of the general government protecting and feeding the lame, halt and blind, to enable the young, athletic, bloodthirsty of the race greater scope of operation and more freedom to rob, murder, burn and steal is a kind of patriotic humanity we cannot fully comprehend.
Sacramento Daily Union, July 9, 1856, page 2



Dear Sir,
    I arrived in Portland yesterday, from San Francisco on the Columbia, on my way to your office, but learning you were not at home and my health not being good I have concluded to return to San Francisco. I have partially made out my quarterly returns for the second quarter 1856, and find that I am indebted to the United States to the amount of two hundred and eighteen dollars, which sum I transmit by Mr. Blanchard to your office and request you send me a receipt for the same, either by Mr. Blanchard or by mail to San Francisco. I would like to have the necessary receipts before closing my papers. I also left a horse belonging to the Indian Department with Dr. Westerfield which the Dr. desired to keep, for which I did not take Mr. Metcalfe's receipt. The Dr. wanted the control of the horse and I left him with him (the little grey Culver horse). If you are cognizant of the fact I would like your receipt for him. The other articles of property belonging to the government which was in my possession I left in charge of Jno. Swinden, who is occupying my claim during my absence. They were left subject to your order. If any defect or errors should be found in any of my papers you will please address me at San Francisco, where I will be pleased to make any explanations that may be required, or correct any errors that my have occurred. I am unable to say how long I shall remain in San Francisco, but I will inform you of my address when I leave. I shall probably go to the States from there, at least that is my intention at present. As soon as my health will permit of it, but probably not before the latter part of August or the first of September.
Joel Palmer Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 253.



E. P. Drew Esq.
    Dear Sir
        Yours of July 6th is received, and contents noted. You ask a statement from me in regard to the proposed extension of the Indian reserve so as to embrace the mouth of the Umpqua River as far up as its junction with Smith's River and thence along the latter to the point where the southern boundary of the reserve as it is now located crosses said stream. I am of the opinion that the alteration as proposed will be productive of good results. The Indians who formerly inhabited this region (Coos Bay), as also the coast tribes of the Umpqua and ""Siuslaw," have already obtained a large portion of their salmon from the falls on Upper Smith's River. They also hunt extensively during certain seasons of the year for bear and elk in the region contiguous to this stream. The small neck of land running down to the mouth of the Umpqua, which is proposed to be taken into this reserve by the alteration, can never be of much value to white settlers, while the extension of the reserve will give to the Indians their old fisheries at the mouth of the Umpqua as also the natural communication by water to their best hunting and fishing grounds on Smith's River.
    I have been intimately acquainted since 1850 with the habits of the Indians located on this portion of the coast, and their mode and manner of obtaining a living. The necessity of the proposed alteration must be perfectly apparent to any person at all acquainted with the several localities.
    Mr. Rogers having submitted the above for my perusal, allow me to say that the views expressed are in accordance with my own, and meet my fullest concurrence.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 279.




Sir
    Your letter of the 12th inst. by the hand of Mr. Brown has been received. I have only to say that it is important that your train depart and arrive at its destination at the earliest moment so that we may have the use of the teams, which you will forward back at once.
    729 Indians came up on the last steamer, all of whom will go to the coast, but portions of them may ultimately be located along Salmon River. Col. Buchanan informs me that Old John and his people, and all the other bands along the coast, have come in and are to start the next day after the date of his letter on their way up the coast. He states, however, that 10 or 12 have skulked into the woods, but an effort will be made to get them in. Capt. Jones with fifty-five men came up with these Indians and are to be located at the Grand Ronde. You speak of Sambo, he is to go to the coast, peaceably if you can, but forcefully if you must, and if it requires force call upon the military and take him in chains and do not let him free very soon. An example of disobedience will doubtless have a good effect, and I know of no one more richly deserving it than he; he was in the last fight and is a vicious and crabby fellow and may do great harm. Call upon him quietly, and if he refuses to go take him if it requires all the force at the Grand Ronde. The appeals of the whole Rogue River tribe must not deter you from taking this man. It has been told him that he must go, and I shall not falsify my word, but be discreet; at the same time use no soft soap. I dwell upon this rather because he is the first Indian who has openly violated and disregarded my orders, and to yield in this instance would be the beginning of an evil harm.
    I shall be over on the coast as soon as possible; in the meantime maintain peace, keep good order and get along with as little expense to the government as possible. Inform me as to the amount of flour and other articles required from time to time--I shall send over nails, tools &c. so as to build houses. Encourage them to erect some good houses. No intelligence from Washington.
To
    C. M. Walker Esq.
        Local Ind. Agent
            Conductor
                Grand Ronde
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 182.



Sir,
    The steamer came up on Thursday last bringing another batch of coast & Rogue River Indians only, 729 souls. I went down on Friday to Portland not supposing that the steamer would be in before Saturday, but before I reached that point they had left for Oregon City, whence I proceeded and came here yesterday. We will not be able to leave here before Thursday next, and if you have any teams that can be spared I wish you to send them down.The train under Walker will of course start tomorrow, and I wish everything done to facilitate his movement. These will follow as soon as possible. It is highly impolitic to keep them any length of time at the Grand Ronde, as we have a few now there that will sour their minds and make them discontented.
    I know of but one man likely to give Walker trouble, [and] that is Sambo, and he must be taken along easily and quietly if possible but forcefully and if necessary in chains. Try and prevent our Willamette Indians from interfering with these coast people. You must try and settle matters among Indians so as not to embarrass me on my coming to the agency. This system of putting off things for others to settle or postponing it to another time is only calculated to embarrass the whole policy. It is the business of the agent to attend to these little matters and not encourage them to run to the Superintendent for redress. It has arrived to a pitch that indicates a disposition to embarrass and annoy me and materially cripple other and more important duties. I am not unmindful of their wants and know how important it is to conciliate their feelings and redress their grievances, and am always willing to listen to their complaints and suggest remedies, but these duties are not to be attended to to the exclusion of all others. I am informed that Mr. Black is attending to the store of Taylor instead of doing the business for which he is engaged. This you will inquire into and see that the business of farming is properly attended to on that farm, and if there is an appearance of neglect on his part advise me at once that another may be employed. Inform me whether the wagon maker has left. You are not to pay any of the expenses connected with the removal of these Indians, hire of teamsters &c., but the supplying of tools, smithing, teams &c. will be furnished as far as possible. The system giving orders on the trader to pay Indians for services against their will will be disallowed. If they desire the goods in payment, this may be done, but they are not to be forced into the purchase of articles at higher rates than elsewhere by an arrangement which would appear as though the agent sought to cooperate with the merchant. Every reasonable inducement should be given to encourage laboring, but the necessity of its performance in producing something for the benefit of the Indians should be a primary consideration. The getting [of] berries now in the season should be encouraged. It would be well to send down a team for the coffee, grain cradles &c. The articles as per requisitions have not been purchased, but the bills will be sent down immediately, say on Tuesday.
To
    W. W. Raymond Esq.
        Sub-Ind. Agent
            Grand Ronde
                O.T.
P.S.  It must be borne in mind that not one dime's expense must be incurred unless the exigencies of the case demand it.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 183-184.



    Below we give the substance of the extra [of the Yreka Union] of July 8th:
    "We have just been informed by the Rev. Mr. Stratton, who last night arrived from Jacksonville, that an intense excitement prevailed in Rogue River Valley on Sunday, in consequence of word having arrived that a packer had been shot that morning near the summit of Siskiyou Mountain, by the Indians. It appears that Messrs. Taylor & McDermit, in company with a hired man, started to cross Siskiyou Mountain for Jacksonville with their pack train of twenty-five mules, and upon arriving at the point some forty rods beyond the summit, the scene of the 'ox team tragedy,' they were fired upon by a party of Indians concealed in the brush at the side of the road. One ball took effect upon the hired man, killing him instantly--the ball entering underneath the right arm and coming out under the left. Taylor & McDermit then fled down the mountain.
    "A party of about twenty men, from the upper part of Rogue River Valley, started immediately in pursuit. Upon returning to the scene of the murder, they found the body of the deceased, which had been dragged about sixty rods down the mountain by the feet, the effect of which was to render it a most hideous sight to behold. They also found three mules that had been killed. Thirteen were driven off and nine recovered. Mr. Stratton has also shown us a couple of arrows which were extracted from the dead animals; they are Tule Lake arrows and are such as are used by the Modoc tribe. This circumstance, connected with the fact that the Indians fled towards Klamath Lake, would seem to settle the question as to what tribe did the deed.
    "The pursuing party, while following on the trail of the murderers, found a newly shod gray horse, saddled and bridled. The inference is that these same Indians have murdered the rider.
    "Thus it seems that as the war closes in Oregon it commences in our own immediate vicinity.
    "The Modoc tribe, which has, heretofore, during the war in Oregon, maintained, as is supposed, neutral grounds, are now, without a doubt, in arms against us, and there is no telling after this successful result of their first effort what they may next contemplate doing. We deem our citizens in Shasta Valley in imminent peril. Generals Cosby and Colton, can no steps be taken, can no effort be made to chastise these treacherous devils?
    "Nothing has been heard as yet from the party in pursuit; it is composed, however, of sterling men, and it is confidently believed that they will give a good account of themselves when they return."
Sacramento Daily Union, July 14, 1856, page 3



Dear sir,
    I was informed yesterday by express messenger that you had arrived at the Grand Ronde encampment with two Indians &c., and by the same express I received a letter from Capt. Rinearson [who] informed me of his arrival and encampment on the north bank of Siuslaw River. I have to request that you will return and carry to him the communication directed to his address and come with him to an encampment north of Cape Perpetua, where you will leave in his care the cattle & flour and return to the Grand Ronde with the pack animals so as to transport goods to the southern end of the reservation. It is possible however that we may meet you with teams loaded with these goods at the mouth of Salmon River; if not you will proceed as above.
    It is highly probable that when the troops come up Capt. Rinearson may be able to move his camp and that you will meet him on the way. There is good camp below or south of Alsea where the entire bands may remain until I come down and designate points to locate them. On parting with Capt. Rinearson you can take his canvas boat to use in crossing streams and take as many of his men as he does not need in his camp. Return with the animals as soon as possible, and if they are much broken down stop them at the mouth of Salmon River and send express forward, and the goods will be forwarded there in wagons. We have here 729 Indians awaiting means of transportation to the coast, all of whom will probably start as soon as Thursday. Should anything occur of a serious character send an express to me.
To
    James Clugage Esq.
        Grand Ronde
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 184-185.



Dear sir,
    Your letter of 9th inst. written at Siuslaw came to hand yesterday, and in reply I have to say that it is my wish that the Indians under your charge should be located at present north of Cape Perpetua and south of Alsea. Very pretty locations may be found along that district where all the Indians coming up the coast may stop temporary [sic] until I can come down with supplies and designate points of locations. Should the Indians under your charge refuse to come up that far, you will call upon Major Reynolds for an escort with a request that he place a sufficient guard to ensure obedience to orders. John's people will doubtless remain in the vicinity of the guard selected by you until I come down. In fact I think it would be requisite to have troops with John's party for several months--and Major Reynolds may desire to examine the country north of the cape before making a permanent location for his station. The great quantity of shellfish along that part of the coast and the game and berries in the mountains will I think be a sufficient inducement for those Indians to remain between the cape and Alsea, or at least until the trail can be opened and the country better understood. With this view you will advise the Indians under your charge to come up to some point as indicated and say to them that I will be there as soon as other duties will permit, and that some of their people who are now here will come with me, when we can examine the country together.
    Be as economical with the provisions as possible, for in the present condition of the trails it is very difficult transporting it to those remote points, and it is well to throw the Indians upon their resources as much as is consistent with their safety and necessities. It would be well to allow some of the most reliable ones to have a gun and ammunition to hunt, taking care to have it understood that the guns must be returned at a given date, and the tribes held responsible for the acts of those who have them in use, but do not allow too many to go out at one time, and if convenient send a white man with them. A few of those from whom you purchased horses have called upon me, but they cannot be paid until you return. I shall write Major Reynolds, and you will consult him in all important movements and act in cooperation with the troops stationed in that district. In case Sub-Agt. Metcalfe proceeds on to this point, you will take charge of the Indians he now has under his charge and act as local agent until further orders in the event of that band remaining in your vicinity. Mr. Drew is the sub-agent for the Coos Bay, Umpquas and Siuslaws. You will receipt to Mr. James Clugage for beef cattle, flour &c. that he may supply you and urge up his pack train at the earliest moment. I shall bring down a fish seine to enable those Indians to take fish. A great noise has been raised about my being removed, but I have had nothing official as yet--it would doubtless gratify very many to learn that it was so. I can at least speak for one. The probability of it has caused me great embarrassments in business operations and has tended not a little to create an excitement among the Indians.
    No important movements in the north.
To
    Capt. Jacob Rinearson
        Local Agent &
            Conductor
                Siuslaw
                    O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 185-186.



Sir
    I have the honor to transmit herewith enclosed the resignation of Indian Agent George H. Ambrose, dated 13th April last, to take effect the 30th ultimo.
    At the verbal request of Agent Ambrose made to me a few days after its reception, I have withheld his resignation until this date inasmuch as he was in hopes his health would improve so as to enable him to perform the duties, but on his return from Port Orford the 10th instant he informed me he should not again enter in duty and has closed up his accounts to the 30th June but has not yet transmitted them to this office. I am at present unable to suggest the name of a suitable person to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Agent Ambrose.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Comr. Ind. Affairs
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 187.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 853-854.



Sir,
    Representations have been made at this office that a band of Indians supposed to number some thirty souls are inhabiting the country along the western base of the Cascade Mountains between the north and south forks of Umpqua River and that they have recently set fire to and burned a house and committed several acts of robbery against the whites. Whether these reports be strictly true I am as yet unable to determine but have no doubt of the fact that a few Indians are in that neighborhood. There are a few also near the northern end of the Canyon and others in the vicinity of Applegate, also a family or two near Mr. Burnett's. It is desirable to gather in all these remnants. With a view of effecting this object I propose sending an Indian called Louis or Lewey, formerly living in Umpqua Valley, who is familiar with that whole country. I shall also direct a Mr. [Nicholas T.] Day who resides in the valley to aid in collecting these Indians. My object in addressing you is to solicit your aid in escorting these Indians to the reservation on your way thither. There are occasionally to be found persons in each neighborhood anxious to retain in the settlements particular Indians whose movements to a great extent they control and from whom they expect benefits in service, hunting &c., but the greater mass of the people in that valley are not only anxious to get rid of these Indians but will be found willing to aid in arresting and removing them. One of the persons to whom I refer as being desirous to retain Indians in the settlements from the information of persons entitled to credit is Lindsay Applegate, whose counsel and advice to them at the time of removing the Umpquas last winter induced quite a number to leave the emigrating party and remain in his immediate neighborhood.
    I am also credibly informed that the old man Mooney on Deer Creek contributed greatly to incite the Indians in that vicinity to take up arms against the whites. Should you find opportunity to obtain reliable information upon this subject I would that you do note it, so that we may take steps to bring such offenders to trial for the lawless and dangerous interference and counsel.
    Should I receive any additional information regarding the Indians referred to, I will advise you. The steamer Columbia reached Portland the 10th inst. with the Indians under Capt. De Floyd-Jones, and are now encamped at this place. They number 729 souls. They will start for the coast in three or four days.
    Those by the previous trip of the steamer (710 souls) are now en route to the coast.
To
    Capt. A. J. Smith 1st Dragoons
        U.S. Army Comd. U.S. Troops
            Fort Lane
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 187-188.




Major
    By an express messenger last evening I learn that the Indians under Capt. Rinearson decline leaving the northern banks of the Siuslaw River. The importance of locating the Indians of the lower country north of Cape Perpetua may render it necessary to call upon the commanding officer to aid in the removal of them to that section. It is important that all the Indians heretofore residing south of Siuslaw should be place north of the cape, as the Siuslaw after twenty years is to be abandoned as the southern line of the reservation, and all permanent improvements (of an extensive character) will be north of the cape. It is a matter of some doubt in my mind whether it would be prudent to allow John and his people to locate at a point remote from the military station, and as the greater proportion of the Indians are to be north of the cape I [omission] whether it would be well to station a portion of the troops under your command during the summer north of the cape. The bareness of the country around Siuslaw holds out but poor inducements for Indian settlements unless they rely almost solely upon fish and berries for food. The bottoms above the forks, however, afford a little good soil for vegetables but requires clearing, which may be said of nearly all bottoms on the streams upon this reservation, nor is there any extensive prairies north of the cape but nevertheless a sufficiency for present use. It is understood that the Coos Bay & Lower Umpqua Indians are opposed to removing until certain improvements are made on the reservation. I am inclined to the belief this idea has been put in their minds by those interested in retaining them in their present locations. It may be necessary in the removal of those Indians to call upon your forces in order to ensure a compliance with the orders given Sub-Agent Drew. No definite plan of operations can well be matured until we have the entire Indian population within the limits of the reservation, and although the expense of transporting subsistence for their use may be greater than where they are now located, we will the sooner be able to perfect means for self-sustenance by the location of the Coos & Umpquas north of the cape.
    I have to request that you will extend to Mr. Rinearson, who I have appointed a local agent and conductor, such assistance as may enable him to carry out his instructions. I have written hurriedly in order to get off the express messenger in time to reach the Grand Ronde before night.
To
    Major Reynolds
        U.S. Army
            Comd. U.S. troops
                en route to Coast Res.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 190.



Sir,
    Believing you willing and desirous of aiding in removing the Indians from Umpqua Valley, [I wish] to address to you this communication and request that you will assist us in that service. Letters from sundry persons have been received at this office informing me that several Indian families are still in the Umpqua Valley, and from Genl. Lamerick I learn that quite a band are along the base of the mountains between north and south forks of Umpqua River and that they have recently committed acts of robbery and burned one house.
    I contemplate sending Louis or Luey, formerly of your valley, an Indian with whom I presume you are acquainted and who I believe is familiar with all the locations where Indians would be likely to collect, to assist in hunting them out, and I have to request that you will act as local agent in collecting and removing all the Indians in the Umpqua Valley to the Grand Ronde in this valley. Capt. Smith of the United States Army will shortly be coming with his command from Fort Lane to the Grand Ronde, and I wish you to collect all the Indians in the Umpqua Valley and concentrate them at some points where they may join him and come on with them to the reservation. It may be necessary to employ a few teams to transport the aged, infirm and the children with such of their effects as are of sufficient value to warrant it, but the healthy and athletic will not be furnished transportation. I will send you by Lewis or some other messenger funds to defray the expenses of subsisting the Indians after collected, and on their way to the reservation, but it is expected you will use economy and incur no expense not absolutely demanded. The object is to gather up every Indian in that country. Certain settlers have their favorites among Indians who they desire to live among them to do service or for some other object, but none are to be left, old or young. It matters not how long they have hired with them or from wherever they come. The entire Indian population is to be removed, and at present there can be no exceptions unless indeed some woman has been legally married to a white man; in that case we do not seek to control her or her offspring. Please inform me by letter where you can act in this matter and give me information as to the whereabouts and number of Indians in the valley.
To
    J. P. Day Esq.
        Canyonville, O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 191.  A signed copy can be found on NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency, 1875.




Sir
    Yours of 13 inst. came duly to hand by messenger Brown and would say in reply that I have not the first wagon at my command. Mr. Walker has them all with him, and he needed more. The party did not leave till yesterday in consequence of the rain. I will send the teams to Dayton immediately--on their return if it should be your wish. I have seen no disposition on the part of the Willamette Indians to interfere with those migrating to the coast in any manner. Sambo had concluded not to leave for the coast now, but he is in safekeeping and will join the party today en route to the coast. I have never been disposed to shirk from any known duty, and in no case do I wish to embarrass the Supt. in his operations or in any wise add aught to his labors--and if he would not allow appeals from the decision of the agt. he would find himself less annoyed. There has been no disposition to put off things, but a readiness to meet each case in time as it might come up and the parties [are] generally satisfied but for the influence which I hope to be annoyed with no more, for he is not a safe man among whites much less among Indians--in consequence the Supt. less annoyed and the agt. less embarrassed. If there has been any evidence on my part to embarrass or annoy you please state it for there is nothing further from my wishes than that I should in any way throw any hindrance in your progress, for it was as far from my mind as hell from heaven. While others have opposed your policy I have sanctioned it, believing it the true policy and am ready to maintain it among friends or foes, though I stand alone and nothing but the wishes to see you succeed would induce me to stay here for one hour. The sympathy for the Indians and the interest of the government, for this I make the sacrifice. The honor and [a] few dimes is a minor consideration. I find someone has made a false impression on your mind in reference to Mr. Black. He acts well his part; his farm is in [a] flourishing condition. He does what he has to do and says nothing about his labors and responsibilities. He casts no reflections upon others, and when he can be of more service he has tendered his aid on other farms when they could not do the work, not knowing how to do it. The impression may have gone out from the following which I will explain. While there was nothing pressing in his business I allowed him to go in the store while Mr. Taylor accompanied some Indian to Mr. Jennings to secure some property left when they came to the reservation to save the expense of an [over] priced escort. Another time while the Indians were wanting their pay for services done on the road I gave them orders on the store, not having any funds on hand, and Mr. Taylor was taken suddenly ill. Mr. Black went into the store to prevent disappointment among the Indians, who were apparently squally, anxious for their pay and Taylor's recovery. Taylor afterwards reciprocated the favor. He has at noon gone into the store while Taylor would go to dinner to save letting the Indians out and in the evening when labor was done he has gone in to assist when employees were wishing to purchase and Taylor could not attend to both. I pay in bills for the moving [of] the Indians only such as will be accounted for by you being kept separate from the expense of this agency. The Indians have been paid on the store only as they have desired at times they would have preferred the money merely to have the gratification of handling it but as I did not have the funds they have preferred orders to waiting, till I could get funds from Dayton. They have gotten their goods as reasonable with orders as the cash. The trader has repeatedly told them he has no preference--the goods are as reasonable as anywhere int he valley save the transportation and considering the articles more reasonable than most houses in the valley. I have been so far from cooperating with the "trader" that I would recommend another establishment should application be made by a proper person. The agt. has two objects in view. One is the getting the Indian into industrious habits and another that he may realize a useful equivalent for his services. The harvest is at hand and the Indians will be an important item. I am studying economy, not being accustomed to provide for a small family, but it looks like extravagance, till one considers the numbers to be provided for and appropriations are limited and many to be  provided for from it, and any man who will swindle his government will rob his own friend.
    You will find an enclosed copy of an order from Lieut. Sheridan which I recd. yesterday.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 254.



Sir:
    I have the honor to transmit, herewith enclosed, a contract--made in triplicate--with Messrs. Hanna & Hawn, builders, of Yamhill County, for the erection of a saw mill &c. on the Grand Ronde Reservation.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Commissioner Ind. Affairs
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 840-841.



Sir:
    I have the honor herewith to transmit a letter written by Robt. C. Buchanan, Lieut. Col. 4th Infantry, commanding the military force in Southern Oregon & Northern California, announcing the close of the war in that district; also two orders, one relative to disposition of the U.S. troops, the other directing the removal of white men from the reservation &c.
    In addition to the ten or twelve Indians mentioned by Col. Buchanan as having fled to the mountains, I am informed by Mr. McGuire, just arrived from that district, that there are several families scattered about in the mountains, but who will undoubtedly consent to come to the reservation after having heard of the safe arrival of those who preceded them. No further difficulty, I am persuaded, need be apprehended from those left behind, but so long as they are in that vicinity their presence will doubtless be made a ground for constant alarm and insecurity and enable the lawless and vicious portion of the white population to commit acts of violence and depredation, and fasten them upon the Indians. We will, undoubtedly, be able during the season to gather them up and place them upon the reservation.
    An exact enumeration of the bands which came upon in the last steamer gives a total of 729 souls, 183 of whom are warriors, 300 women, 72 boys, 71 girls and 103 infants; all of whom have been furnished a limited amount of clothing, and have today left this place for the coast, via Grand Ronde.
    I have been for the last few days quite indisposed, but will this afternoon, accompanied by Captain C. C. Augur, U.S. army, proceed to the Grand Ronde and thence to the coast, and south as far as the Yah-quo-na [Yaquina], thence across the mountain to a valley on the head of Siletz River, to ascertain its adaptation for a settlement of Indians and the establishment of a temporary military post.
    The Indians gathered from remote points give us but little trouble at the encampments, but many of those who have heretofore resided in the vicinity of the Grand Ronde are often running away, which requires the constant employment of messengers, and sometimes troops, to hunt them up. I have good reasons to believe they are enticed away by whites, who desire the benefit of their labor, but of this I have no positive proof beyond the statements of the Indians, whose evidence is inadmissible in our courts of law.
    The fish seines ordered from San Francisco have been received and are taken over to the coast to aid in their subsistence: Two of the largest have been transferred to Agent Thompson, at the Dalles, for those of his district.
    I am happy to think that, in a general point of view, all of our operations on the Coast Reservation will be crowned with success.
To Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Washington City
            D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 840-842.




To the Hon. Supt. of Indian Affairs O.T.
    Dear Sir
        The undersigned and writer of this is the person who makes the within application for a certain large American mare that was stolen beyond a doubt and by Indians from Rogue River, who were in the Coquille country in the month of Feb. There was a number of small depredations committed upon the property of our citizens, for which in some instances I believe application for pay has been made to the Supt. of Ind. Affairs. I had a house destroyed by fire and considerable property by Indians some two years since, and have been deprived of my most valuable witness since June 1855. He is an Indian boy some fifteen or sixteen years old, belonging to the Coquille Indians, named Ike, or Ak, "answers to both names," and was sold to a Klickitat Indian named Dido, who took him down Willamette Valley, since which time I have never heard from him. Benj. Wright, late Indian agt. (deceased), promised me that he would try and get the boy Ike, or Ak, from the Klickitat Indians, and then I could have the benefit of his evidence in regard to the burning of my house &c. His evidence is only what he should have heard said at Indian houses, but that with the circumstantial evidence of white men who were present or nearby at the time the fire occurred, and saved some of my things, establishes the fact beyond a doubt that my house & property were destroyed by Indians. Should the Supt. of Indian Affairs be convenient to the Klickitat tribe of Indians please to inquire for said boy Ike, or Ak, ask him if he knows me &c. I will send in an application for pay for the property alluded to. My claim established by white men's evidence (who are now at Port Orford, and on the Coquille River) also stating what I expected or could prove by the boy Ike, "Ak." I would be very much obliged to receive an answer upon the receipt of this, and any instructions that may be necessary in making out Indian spoliation bills, also if there should be any questions arising in regard to this enclosed application, please to acquaint me with the same at your earliest convenience, and if the Supt. of Indian Affairs will attend to and take the circumstances above stated and as in the application, I doubt not he will see the justice of my claim--which to me is a large one, as I am a poor man--and issue me a voucher for the same.
To the Supt. of Ind. Affairs
    in O.T.
P.S. I receive mails at Empire City.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 270.



    The first mention in the papers I have of Lieut. Sheridan is in Joel Palmer's pocket diary for the year 1856; the following is an entry Wednesday April 24, 1856: "Remained in office. The Indians went to the reservation, in charge of C. M. Walker. Lt. Sheridan, with 9 dragoons, left here today for the reservation."
    Then follow entries of his going, accompanied by "Olney," into the Rogue River country to treat with the Indians there; of the battles of that year; and the trip to Dayton with various bands of Indians.
    The next entry concerning Lieut. Sheridan is the following, Sunday, 20 July, 1856:
    "Today the Indians arrived at Grand Ronde. Having rained during the night and nearly all day, and they mostly without tents, they suffered a good deal. All, however, appeared cheerful. One birth and one death on the road.
    "Monday, 21. All things being in readiness, with Lieut. Sheridan, John Flett and 12 Indians, I started for the coast over the _______ road, designing to travel down the coast as far as Yaquina, and then across the mountain to the head of Siletz River, and thence to Kings Valley and home. We left Grand Ronde at 11½ a.m. and reached the coast at 6 p.m. Met returning teams from coast."
    There follow entries up to July 27, where the party explored valleys and viewed out possible roads.
    In August of this year (1856), according to this diary, on Friday, the 15th, Joel Palmer received notice of his removal from the office of Indian Superintendent, and the appointment of his successor, Mr. Hedges.
Gertrude Palmer to R. J. Hendricks, "Bits for Breakfast," Oregon Statesman, Salem, July 1, 1938, page 6






Genl. J. Palmer Supt. Ind. Affrs.
    Dayton O.T.
        Dr. Sir
            I arrived here this morning, will return tomorrow morning to my encampment at Yaquina. I came up here as I was informed by an Indian that you was at this place, being very anxious to see you.
    Dr. Steel will leave here early tomorrow for your place. I therefore take occasion to say to you that I have endeavored to carry out your instructions and the welfare of the Inds. under my charge. The Coquilles, say 170, have acted well since leaving Umpqua and say they are willing to do as I tell them, but that they wish to be located near the Port Orford people, that Old John must not be located with them. I will therefore leave the Yaquina with them Aug. 1st and will be at the Siletz the 4th, where I will await further orders.
    Old John was in charge of Metcalfe when I left the encampment, and has been since leaving Siuslaw. I did not take charge of his band because I felt satisfied it would cause a difficulty with the two tribes. I understood from Metcalfe that Old John would not remain at the Yaquina, that [he] intended to go where the balance of the Rogue River Inds. were stationed. I had on hand when I left the train about 6,000 lbs. flour and 23 head of beef cattle, which will be left at the Yaquina except just enough to feed the Inds. en route to Siletz River. McGuire went down to the Yaquina this morning with some of Joshua's people to see the country.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, no number.



Joel Palmer Esquire
    Chief Supt. of Indian Affairs
        Sir
            I live about 6 miles west of the Canyon and 2 of Cow Creek, where I had a band of sheep last winter when the Indian difficulties began, amounting in all to 420 head. In the month of January last I had 105 head drove off the range in one band, I suppose by the Cow Creek Indians, and taken by way of Camas Valley to the meadows on Rogue River, as wool has been seen on the brush all along the trail leading there and no trace of them dead or alive has ever been found on their accustomed range. 95 head I have lost from being scattered in the mountains and killed by wild animals, while it was impossible to look after or collect them without risking my life. 160 head I succeeded in bringing out of the mountains in the month of February when no one but Thomas Cowan and myself would leave the forts and settlements to hunt stock; while by death and other casualties not attributable to Indian inroads I have lost 170 head. The band was owned in partnership by Robt. Cowan, Yoncalla, and myself and were under my charge. I bought into the band in June 1855, paying 7.00 dollars per head cash and am now by our various losses ruined.
    I claim therefore compensation for losses sustained through Indian depredations 2400.00 dollars, that is 200 head of sheep at 12.00 dollars per head and would feel exceedingly obliged if you would inform me what formalities may be necessary to sustain my just claim.
    My only acquaintances in Lower Oregon are Mr. McKinlay and Mr. Lowe, Oregon City. Jesse Applegate Esqr., Yoncalla, and G. T. Allan Esqr., Scottsburg know me intimately and should you be kind enough to interest yourself in this matter and wish a reference to one or both of the latter I beg to refer you.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 271.



Sir,
    In accordance with your letter of instructions of 30th August 1855, I have the honor to submit, herewith, the report of W. H. Farrar, U.S. District Attorney in Oregon Territory, to whom the papers had been submitted upon the claim of Anson Dart  "for money alleged to have been paid by him for rents and charges in a suit commenced by Charles Brewster; owing to other duties and the fear that I might not be able to arrive at an accurate and just conclusion in the premises, I submitted the papers to Mr. Farrar for examination and report.
    I have not given the matter a very extensive personal examination, but from what little knowledge I possess in the matter, I am induced to concur in the report of Mr. Farrar, that the claim ought not to be paid by the government, for the reasons there set forth, but whilst entertaining this opinion, I disavow any expression going to assent, or dissent, to the sentiments expressed in the last clause of Mr. Farrar's letter to me of the 2nd inst., which is herewith submitted, marked A.
    To wit, "But from what I can glean respecting his official and private transactions in Oregon, he must have defrauded the government of a large sum of money by fraudulent charges, and vouchers"; not being called upon by your instructions to investigate matters of that character, I refrain from expressing an opinion as to the truth or falsity of such intimation, but feel satisfied that the expenditures for which Mr. Dart sets up a claim was induced by a course of conduct outside of his official duties as Superintendent [of] Indian Affairs, and that it is not therefore a proper claim to be paid by the government.
    I submit also Mr. Farrar's account for services and expenses whilst soliciting information and making up his report and ask instruction relative thereto.
To
    Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
        Comr. Ind. Affairs
            Washington City
                D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 861-863.



Sir,
    Your favor of yesterday advising me of the arrest of Eneas has been received, and in reply I have to suggest that he be retained by you at the Grand Ronde until I can confer with Chief Justice Williams of Salem to ascertain whether a special term of the court may not be convened to try this particular case. Had he been taken during the time of actual hostilities, the military would undoubtedly have been competent to try his case, but now, after the restoration of peace, it may be a question whether the correct mode would not require a trial by the civil authorities. There is no doubt of his having incited the Indians to take up arms, and of his personal participation in the murder of Ben Wright and Poland, but whether such evidence can be brought before the court to convict is yet to be ascertained. Indian evidence against an Indian however will undoubtedly be regarded as good, and of this I presume there is a sufficiency. I will advise you of Judge Williams' reply on the return of my messenger, and hope to be at Grand Ronde in a few days. We arrived at Capt. Augur's camp in Kings Valley yesterday morning [a] little after 8 a.m., where he contemplated establishing a post from thence to the upper prairie on Siletz River is about twenty miles. We found a very pretty country on that stream and of sufficient capacity to settle an extensive colony of Indians. I was anxious that the post might be located there, but Capt. Augur seems disinclined to go so far into the mountains, and his reasons may be correct and should have weight. This decision will compel me to change the place of operations a little so far at least as sending to that district materials, supplies &c. by way of Grand Ronde and up Siletz River instead of by way of Kings Valley, as the opening of a wagon road is likely to be rather too expensive for this Department.
    I reached home at one this morning. You will doubtless receive letters from Capt. Augur and Sheridan this evening.
To
    De L. Floyd-Jones
        Capt. 4th Ifnty. U.S.A.
            Comd. Officer Post Grand Ronde
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 195.




Sir
    We have recently arrested on the Coast Reservation the notorious Eneas of Lower Rogue River, who has been regarded as the direct cause and controlling spirit in the outbreaks by Indians against the whites in the Port Orford District, and who it is alleged made the assault in person and killed by his own hand Capt. Ben Wright and aided in killing Capt. Poland. In the surrender of the Indians of that district, they were given to understand that this man would be executed if taken. It is believed he came here to excite a revolt, but was informed of by an Indian chief belonging to Port Orford, and assisted by C. M. Walker, aided by the military stationed at the mouth of Salmon River. My object in writing is to ascertain whether a special court may not be called to try this prisoner, or whether in your opinion he may properly be tried by court martial. You are aware we have no jail, and his presence may cause trouble on the reservation. If his case could be disposed of at once, it would undoubtedly subserve the public interest. Please advise me by return messenger. He is now or will be this evening at the Grand Ronde in the custody of the military, whom I have requested to retain him until your decision shall be known. In the event of a protracted postponement of trial we shall be compelled to send him to Vancouver for safekeeping. Will you have the kindness to advise me what steps should be taken to secure a speedy and legitimate trial of this Indian? The magnitude of the crimes alleged against him demands attention, and the chance of escape being so great it would be wise to dispose of it at the earliest possible moment. Will Indian testimony be regarded as good against an Indian? This question may have an important bearing in this case.
To
    Hon. Geo. H. Williams
        Chief Justice
            U.S.C.
                Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 196.




Dear sir,
    Your two letters of 26th inst. by Mr. Kelly came duly to hand.
    I am gratified with the arrest of the notorious Eneas and have this morning sent a messenger to Judge Williams asking a special term of the court to try him. Capt. Jones has been requested to retain him in custody until an answer is obtained.
    You ask me to send you a commissary. Two men, Maguire & Cantrell, have been sent over with the last band of Indians, who for the present will be located near your camp, and as the number of Indians with them is not great, the services of these two men it is believed will be sufficient in addition to Mr. Kelly for any business required in your camp.
    The goods and supplies sent over during my absence have not been receipted for. I wish you to take an invoice of all articles and receipt to me for whatever may pass through your hands, turning over for use in the southern district such articles as may be directed by this office. The boxes and bales must be arranged for packing on mules, and the contents of each pack noted--and when turned over to the pack master or agent receipted for. On the arrival of these goods from Grand Ronde you will invoice and pack up blankets, pants, shirts, sheeting, drilling, linsey &c. so as to have in readiness soon after the arrival of the pack train from the south.
    I desire a warehouse put up on the north banks of the Siletz River near the usual crossing. This you will cause to be erected at the earliest moment. I find we will be compelled to send to the settlements on Siletz River for our supplies, materials &c. by way of Grand Ronde, Salmon River and by water up Siletz River to some point from whence a wagon road may be constructed.
    I am highly pleased with the prospects for Indian settlements on that stream; it surpasses my expectations. We must construct some boats or canoes to transport wagons, materials, tools, subsistence &c. up Siletz River, for we must have wheat sown this fall. I hope to be over in a few days when arrangements can be perfected for carrying this plan into operations. Until then try and amuse the Indians and familiarize them with their new home.
    It will be well to watch the movements of those Indians who have heretofore acted in concert with Eneas and ascertain what effect his arrest is likely to have upon them, and obtain the evidences of his participation in the crimes with which he is charged.
To
    C. M. Walker Esq.
        Local Agent & Conductor
            Coast Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 197-198.




Sir,
    When at your Department in March last I promised to answer the charges that were made against me by Mr. Palmer, Superintendent Indian Affairs for Oregon as soon as I reached home, and for that purpose was kindly furnished with a copy of his communications to you upon that subject. I completed the answer on the 5th of June and forwarded it to your Department on the 9th., since which time I have heard nothing concerning it, and I fear that it may not have reached your office.
    I hope that you may, ere this, have received an answer from Mr. Palmer stating his answer, if he has any, why my account for services and disbursements, which I submitted to your office in March last should not be paid, in order that your Department may act upon it. I will only observe that the services were rendered and the disbursements made nearly two years ago; that I did so at the unanimous solicitation of the citizens there, who believed that on account of my previous advantages I could preserve them from such a war as has since followed. I believed the same myself and for that reason and no other I consented to continue until the most critical period had passed.
    May I hope to hear if any answer was received and if action has been had upon the accounts referred to.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Department of the Interior
            Washington D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 92-94.




Dear sir
    I have to request that you will direct the bands of Indians under your charge to remain at present on the south side of Siletz River, say at the southern angle of the bay and behind the sand hills unless indeed they may choose to stop a few miles farther south, where I think is a better camp. The goods designed for those Indians have been sent down by the teams and are to be delivered to Mr. Walker to be put up in shape for packing down the coast, but if all the bands come up in the vicinity of Siletz River the business of packing can be dispensed with, as the teams can come down to that stream. I have directed Mr. Walker to cause a warehouse to be erected on the north banks of Siletz River near the coast. As soon as practicable after you have selected a camp, I wish you to procure two canoes and go up Siletz River to the prairies; go as far as where the trail from Yaquina strikes Siletz River, examine the number and extent of prairies below the one through which this trail leads. From the crossing of the river by this trail it is about nine miles to the upper large prairie, a country abounding in grass and well adapted to an Indian settlement. I am satisfied this valley is the best suited for the entire Rogue Rivers, Applegate, Galice Creek and Umpquas that is to be found on the reservation.
    I wish you to take Bill and a few other leading men with you and give them an opportunity to ascertain its advantages. In examining the country above tidewater and below the trail referred to, it is important that the practicability of a wagon road be established. It is as much for this object that the trip is to be undertaken as any other, as it is presumed the supplies for that settlement must go up Siletz River, and above tidewater it is not navigable. From the upper large prairie it is about twenty-five miles to Kings Valley, a point selected for the middle military post, at which point is stationed Capt. Augur, 4th Infty. & 72 men. After the arrival of goods you will distribute to each man a blanket, pair of pants and flannel shirt, to each woman a blanket, linsey or calico dress, three yards sheeting, to boys and girls articles as you may deem requisite. In giving rations you will be guarded by the circumstances so as to meet the supply on hand, either beef or flour or both, if a supply should be on hand; a little sugar is sent over, but designed for hospital use. Report to me the number and condition of the Indians under your charge at as early a moment as possible, making requisition for such articles as you may need. The Coquilles under Rinearson if they choose may cross Siletz River.
    Advise me whether your Indians have found any location along the coast desired by them as a place of residence. If I find it practicable I will come down during the coming week. The probability is that Mr. Hedges will assume the duties of Supt. Ind. Affairs at the end of one month. In the meantime we must strive to give up the Superintendency in as prosperous a condition as possible.
To
    R. B. Metcalfe
        Sub-Ind. Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 198-199.



Dear sir
    Referring to my letters of 28th ultimo, requesting the retention of Eneas at the Grand Ronde until it could be ascertained whether a court could be convened to try him, I have now to submit a copy of a letter from Chief Justice Williams upon that subject. The presence of this Indian at the Grand Ronde is calculated to cause excitement among the Indians. It is therefore important that his case should be attended to at an early day. The witnesses against the prisoner being among the coast tribes, it is submitted whether it should not be well to have the case tried here or on the coast, but in the event of a conviction it may not be advisable to execute the prisoner at this encampment.
    I am satisfied that unless he be tried by a military commission, great delay and uncertainty must ensue, as he must necessarily be taken to the county in which the offenses was committed for a judicial investigation, and I concur with the judge that under the circumstances a trial by a military commission is the proper mode of proceeding and therefore express a hope that measures may be taken to carry it into effect at the earliest practicable moment.
To
    Capt. De L. Floyd-Jones
        of 4th Infty.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 199.



Capt.
    I find it impracticable to take a trip to the Indian encampment at the mouth of Salmon River at this time, and from information received last evening am fearful that the bad feeling among the different bands against each other may have become so serious as to be beyond the means of the local agent to reconcile it unless aided by the presence of troops. I dislike to annoy you by frequent calls of this character, but the bringing together [of] so many different bands, comparative strangers to each other, portions of whom have so recently been engaged in hostilities, and the doubt in their minds consequent upon a change of agents, seems to require the presence of a small military force at that point, at least until the plans of the coming-in Supt. be developed and they become reconciled to their new homes. No definite arrangements beyond temporary encampments for these tribes will be attempted at present, lest the views and policy of the newly appointed Superintendent might not accord with mine, and as frequent changes tend to lessen the confidence of the Indians and destroy the influence of agents, I deem it better to leave my successor unencumbered by any plans adopted or matured after obtaining a knowledge of his appointment.
Capt. De L. Floyd-Jones
    4th Infty.
        Comd. Grand Ronde Station
            Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 200.



Sir
    Yesterday we arrested a man by the name of Bagler who was caught giving whiskey to Indians in Dayton. He has owned that he gave them whiskey, and a Mr. Munks saw him give it and took him in charge. He also states that he is a deserter from the 4th Infty. I telegraphed to Genl. Palmer at Portland to know what I should do; he said in reply, get a warrant out and arrest him, and if he cannot get bail for his appearance at next court, turn him over to Lieut. Hazen, which I now do; he is in the charge of Mr. E. Cluff, who will deliver him over to you. He says he has a brother on the reservation; whether it is so or not I do not know, but if he is, as he has here stated, that he is a deserter, I suppose you will then take care of him.
P.S.  I also send you herewith enclosed the telegraph dispatch which I received from the Superintendent, as it requests me to send to you for Eneas, to be brought immediately to Vancouver. I sent express on yesterday with one from Capt. Jones, but as it did not state where to send him, I now forward you this one, and also to show you my authority for arresting Bagler for giving whiskey to Indians.
To
    Lieut. W. B. Hazen
        U.S. Army
            Grand Ronde O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 203.



To
His Excy. George L. Curry
    Governor of Oregon Ter.
(now at Washington City, D.C.)
Dear Sir:
    I must plead official duties for this delay to answer your letter under date of 23rd June [see above], addressed to me on the eve of your departure for Washington City. That letter is not now before me, and I cannot recollect its precise language; the impression left upon my mind in perusing it is, however, indelibly fixed. If I remember rightly it commences by expressing regrets that anything should have occurred to destroy the friendly and neighborly feeling so long existing between us, and informing me that my official correspondence with General Wool evinced a disposition on my part to do injustice to the people of Oregon &c. and goes on to advise me that it would be your duty and pleasure to oppose, at Washington, all persons who might be against you &c. This, of course, is not the language, but modified in mild terms, yet giving me distinctly to understand that I might expect to find in you one who would sacrifice me, or any other person, if deemed necessary to main the position taken by yourself in regard to the prosecution of the war.
    Were I seeking political preferment at the hands of the people of Oregon, or position from any other source, I might, and doubtless would, long ere this, have sought to correct the public mind in regard to my official acts and explain away the erroneous impressions and false interpretations given to my official correspondence by political hucksters and demagogues, who seem to have no other aspiration than to vie with each other in detraction and abuse.
    You, with many others, appear to ascribe to me a desire to oppose your plans and policy, and of throwing obstacles in the way of a successful prosecution of the war, and as taking sides with General Wool, and others, who might be in opposition to those plans, or opposing appropriations, by simply having addressed to him an official letter asking the aid of United States troops in the removal of friendly Indians to a reservation. As the chief officer of the Indian Department in this Territory I believed it my duty to fully advise and consult with the commanding general of this department, and to delineate to him any and all facts connected with the origin of the war, and the obstacles with which he had to contend. That letter (to which such exceptions have been taken) sets forth some of those causes, and whilst its language might be regarded as unmerited, or improper if applied to a whole community, was none too strong when applied to that class of persons for whom it was intended. That subsequent events have verified the predictions therein contained no sane man can deny. There is not one sentence contained in that letter that I wish to recall, because the facts have stamped its truthfulness, but in saying this I did not, nor do I wish to, apply it to the entire community, but I say that the war in Southern Oregon has been provoked by a set of lawless vagabonds who alike disregard the rights of Indians and whites. This is not a general or wholesale charge against all the people of Southern Oregon, nor does it imply opposition to the prosecution of the war by volunteer forces, or opposing the speedy appropriation by Congress to pay the expenses consequent upon it, for, as in my official correspondence to the Indian Department, I have stated that it was too late to speculate as to the causes of the war; it was enough to know that it was upon us, and that our women and children were being slaughtered by these ruthless savages. Who could have imagined that in pointing out to the commanding officer some of the causes of this war, and the necessity for furnishing troops to remove the friendly bands from the proximity of hostile tribes, would have been seized hold of as a justification for opposing the war, or the appropriations by Congress for the payment of its expenses? Whilst I hold that there have been very many acts of aggression by whites against the Indians in that country, and many, too, by individual members of volunteer companies, well calculated to bring reproach upon our people, I by no means allege that the entire community, or the regiment of volunteers, were wholly responsible for those acts: There has been, nevertheless, a too ready willingness on the part of citizens, and officers, to acquiesce in those acts, which gave encouragement & countenance that often tended to a repetition of similar atrocities.
    It has been my aim to discriminate between hostile and friendly bands, and to so arrange matters in this department that the punishment of the guilty might not be visited upon the innocent. To some extent I have in this been successful. You are not ignorant of the feelings that pervaded nearly the entire community in Oregon against the entire Indian race--a feeling which, in many districts, looked to the system of extermination as the only proper and available policy to be pursued by the government. However mortifying or unpalatable it may be to us, a history of the settlement and occupancy by whites of Southern Oregon and Northern California would be a history of wrong against the red man, and the cunning, the violation of faith, the treachery and savage brutality, said to be the characteristics of that people, have been practiced towards them to a degree almost inconceivable by the reckless portion of whites who have cursed that land with their presence the past six years. By this I by no means intend to disparage the worthy and just people of that portion of the Territory, for there are many such there, and many of whom are ignorant of what is going on around them, others deceived by false representations, gotten up for the occasion, and not a few are awed into submission by the numerous class who are eating out the very substance and life of that community.
    The greater portion of the people of this Territory hear but one side of these questions--as they generally derive their information from interested parties: My official duties have thrown me in conflict with this latter class of population, and whilst I have mourned over that state of affairs and sought to evade the disasters consequent, I have endeavored to leave the community to purge itself rather than take any steps which could only end in defeat and tend to exasperate to additional extremes. A community unable through its judicial tribunals, on account of chicanery and management, to rid itself of a portion of its most obnoxious members for offenses against its own citizens, would not be likely through the same source to extend its aid to federal officers in ridding it of similar persons when charged with offenses against Indians. Very many politicians charge me with slandering the people of the south. Can any man be so ignorant of events in that section of the country as not to know that there has been an enormous amount of crime committed there within the last few years--theft robbery murder and the whole catalogue of crime, not only against Indians but against white people has prevailed to an alarming extent--and who has sought to remedy this growing evil? Who has been punished? Several arrests have been made for the crime of murder, but by "management" the parties have been turned loose to prey upon the community and commit similar offenses. Crime will not cease there when the entire Indian population shall be removed. It is claimed that in Jackson County, on conviction of the killing [of] an Indian, punishment has followed the perpetration of the act--I have heard of but that one conviction and that one an orphan boy--who encouraged by the acts of those around him shot an Indian. An orphan, friendless and penniless, he alone, of all the offenders in that country, must suffer the penalty! Who does not believe that, had he been a prominent citizen, and backed up with means, the court would have as in other cases in that District set a few days in empaneling a jury until one was "packed" that would have acquitted him. But no! he had no friends, no purse to empty, and he was sentenced to two years in the penitentiary. It is not the settler and law-abiding people to which I refer in my letters, but the scum of society who have congregated there to eat out the substance of the better portion of those people; but "scum" as it is, politicians, federal and Territorial officers and aspirants curry favor with and pamper to its viciousness and demoralization, instead of meeting it boldly and manfully, and aiding to purge the community of its pestilential influence: One half the zeal manifested by public men in this Territory in the denunciations of their neighbors and elevation of favorites to office would have been quite sufficient to change the current popular feeling into a right course, by aiding and encouraging the real bona-fide settler and good citizen to maintain the laws and restore the country to security and peace. It is that class of persons whom I charge with reckless and lawless acts, and so long as politicians seek to throw odium upon, and trample under foot, those who would rid the community of such men so long we merit the reproach and appellation of a lawless community.
    My official acts as Superintendent of Indian Affairs are nearly closed, for I am, though not as yet officially informed, removed from the office, but this does not lessen the interest I feel in the welfare of a people for whom I have been laboring, and I hope my successor may be more successful in his efforts to accomplish good for them and subserve the interests of this community generally. Whilst I have been zealous to promote the good of the Indians, and carry out fully my instructions, I have by no means been unmindful of my obligations as a citizen, and have acted in all things as it appeared to me best suited to secure the lives and property of our citizens, restore and maintain peace, advance the Indian in civilization and subserve the cause of humanity. In leaving the office it is a consolation to feel and know that whatever the result may be, I have endeavored to discharge my duty, as I understood it to be, and that I have not swerved from my line of instructions, although sometimes I have taken responsibilities which might have been regarded an improper assumption--but whenever so taken I deemed the circumstances demanded it. The office was conferred unsought on my part, and it will go unregretted. I am not ignorant of some of the reasons which have influenced persons to urge my dismissal from office; among them is my avowed sentiments as regards the combined influence of speculators and jobbers to filch money from the Treasury by means of exorbitant prices for property which has been used for the service of the Territory in the war, and the payment (or promises) by the officers of such high rates--sometimes, indeed, ranging as high as four hundred percent above cash rates, and of my expressed views that such measures would tend to subject to long delay, if not defeat, the payment of just and equitable claims arising out of the war. It is not necessary to consume time to prove that such has been practiced--it is self evident; and hence the great desire to swallow up matters of this kind in the hue and cry against certain individuals as a means of drawing public attention from the real cause of the failure to procure congressional appropriation. But appropriations will doubtless be made to pay the just and equitable claims; the spurious and made up ones (of which there are undoubtedly many) ought not to be paid. It is the abuse of these matters that retards payment and brings censure upon the acts of our public men, and which are shared alike by all classes of our citizens. I am grieved to know that my acts and writings should have been so misconstrued by the good people of Oregon--I have never sought to prejudice the procurement of appropriations to pay the expense of this war, nor have I ever slandered the good citizens of Oregon as alleged by many. The calling into service volunteers I approved of, as a matter of necessity, not only to punish the Yakimas and those confederated with them, but to deter other tribes from uniting in a war against us; and I am still convinced that had the troops been successful in the first campaign in the Yakima country, it would have ended the war in that country. I raise no issues as to the plans of campaign, but assert, and have maintained, that a failure of the regular troops and volunteers to act in concert, and cooperate, has tended materially to affect the efficiency of the service. It is not my province to determine whose plans were right, or whose wrong, or to praise one and condemn the other, and the fact of my having kept up a correspondence with General Wool, as the commanding genl. of this military department (which, by the by, I have been specifically instructed to do) should not be construed into a disapproval of the policy of Governor Curry, or of the approval of the plans of General Wool but simply, as in point of fact, of an official doing what his duties required of him. As before remarked there have been many acts committed by members of volunteer companies which I disapprove but the expression of that sentiment is not to be construed as being in opposition to Governor Curry's policy generally, and has nothing to do with the payment of these war expenses, nor can it reasonably be perverted into a construction that I stood antagonistical to the interests of the people of Oregon.
    It appears to me a weak argument that because the first act of aggression in Southern Oregon was committed by a white man--which provoked this war--hundreds of our citizens should be butchered by those savages, and whole neighborhoods cut off and destroyed without an effort to punish the aggression, or restrain their further acts, and that Congress therefore ought not to pay the expenses necessarily incurred. None but weak minded, selfish men entertain such views. It needs no distortion of truth, nor the disgrace or victimizing of any public officer to establish the existence of a war between a portion of the Indian tribes and the white settlers in Oregon and Washington territories; nor will it be difficult to convince Congress of the necessity that existed for calling volunteer forces into the field, or of the equitable claim of our citizens upon the general government for payment of the proper and legitimate expenses of the war, but the distorted imagination of political demagogues and aspirants have seized hold of every act and movement in order to wield an influence which may turn to their favor, and thus many of our citizens who should, and doubtless would but for this influence, have used their mental faculties to advance the interests of the country and aid in reducing things to order and a state of quietude and peace, been engaged in speculation and detraction, have misled the public mind and are still abusing the powers with which the Almighty has endowed them to bring the heavy hand of vengeance upon the people of this Territory. They first, by their influence and counsel, operate upon weak minded persons to the commission of some desperate act, seize hold of that fact, raise an excitement either against a white man, or an Indian, it matters not to them which, so that it may be used to their advantage. The whole matter is then distorted and sent forth through the public prints and heralded over the country, and used by the various factions to suit the particular localities, in order to accomplish the design of its originators. Governors, delegates to Congress, as well as others, have been deceived and are made the dupes of these political hucksters, & he who is not blinded with excitement and frenzy cannot but be convinced of the truth of this declaration.
    I have said much more than I had at first intended, as merely designed to disavow to you any intention of opposing your policy, or any wish to express an opinion upon that subject in my official letters, or in short, of doing any act which might be construed as disparaging the efforts seeking an appropriation from Congress to defray the expenses of the war. I have had a duty to perform, have sought to do that duty fearlessly, without favor or affectation. I may have erred in many things, who does not? but if in order to obtain the applause of a community I must do violence to my own convictions of right, I prefer their disapprobation. I have been charged with obstinacy; who could have yielded to the thousand conflicting ideas entertained by this community, and conformed to his instructions? Scarcely any two persons entertained the same views relative to plans and measures of public good; one thing only could any considerable portion of the people claim as agreeing in sentiment, and that was extermination of the Indian race!
    I am much mistaken if his excellency will not someday admit that if he had not yielded to the opinions of others he would have had less difficulty and been more successful in the prosecution of this war.
    I write this letter unguarded--not having time to choose expressions, but as it is not intended for an official communication, or to be heralded to the world to be criticized and perverted, I speak freely and openly: So far as I am concerned the die is cast, and although I might infer from your letter a determination on your part to swallow me up, I have the consolation to know that it was done before you reached Washington City, and it therefore needs no apology from you--the intent may have been good, but others equally sagacious and always desirous to do a good act stepped in ahead of you, and I am saved the mortification of having an old friend found warring against honest efforts to do right.
    I hope, indeed, that your efforts combined with those of General Lane will eventuate in the procurement of appropriations to pay the just demands of our citizens in their prosecution of this war, & that you may soon return to your home with renewed energy & efforts to serve the people, and with increased honors to yourself assuring you that however envious others may seem for political preferment there is at least one man in Oregon content with the distinction to which he has been so unwillingly honored, and whilst he is thankful for past favors, hopes he will hereafter be permitted to sit under his own vine and fig tree unenvied by political hucksters and demagogues, and his enjoyments unappreciated by public and private defamers and Indian exterminators.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 894-906.



    Dear General
        Yours of 19th April and 18th June were recd. two days since on my return to Dayton from a trip down the coast, for which you will please accept the thanks of your most devoted friend.
    You have learned before this of Mosher's marriage and of which it is painful to me to speak, but let us bury the past; you have shown beyond the possibility of doubt that you are my friend, and I am ready to lay down my life for you at any time, and no power on Earth can ever erase the strong attachment I have formed for you. My heart is now desolate, and if you too desert me then there is no longer any ties to bind me to a cold and merciless world. I hope things have been represented to you in the true light, and if so, I stand acquitted; I have no fault to find of any person and my earnest prayer is for your daughter's happiness and prosperity in this world, and if I can do anything in word or deed to effect that, it shall most cheerfully be done.
    I learn that there are three full agents to be appointed in Oregon and still hope to get one of those situations. We now have all the Indians west of the Cascades on the Coast Reservation, and we can hope for a permanent peace in Southern Oregon. There will have to be discretion used in getting employees, as one bad man in the present unsettled state of things on the Reserve may upset everything and involve us in a war in which our previous wars would be but child's play in comparison.
    The crops are good in this valley and promise a handsome yield. There is no news that is worth troubling you with. I see there is a call for two more companies of Volunteers north.
Joseph Lane Papers






Dear General
    The mail is reported will be up tomorrow. I will doubtless get my commission & instructions & shall enter upon the duties of my office immediately. I intend to appoint Mr. Geary Secretary, and every other place that be filled with good men & sound Democrats. I am well aware that I am shouldering a great responsibility in entering upon & undertaking to discharge the duty of Superintendent at this time, but I have no doubt I shall get along with it. I shall endeavor to secure the services of the best men in the country. I shall establish my office at Oregon City until I get advice from the Department. I think it the most suitable place in the Territory for the office. There will be some Indian agents to appoint soon; I will advise you about that matter as soon as I can that you may have good & true men appointed. I understand that about one half the men in the employ of Genl. Palmer are Whigs & Know Nothings. They must be removed & their places filled with good Democrats. It will require some time to get everything arranged to my notion, but I will have all right in a few months, you may rely upon that. The war up north still goes on. Gov. Stephens has called for 200 more volunteers to go up north. He is determined to prosecute the war vigorously until the Indians desire peace, then a treaty may be made that will be lasting. I am apprehensive that I shall have some trouble with Old John’s band of Rogue Rivers. He is very stubborn & not well-satisfied. It will be very difficult to keep him on the reserve. 
My respects to Gov. Curry. Tell him that I have not heard from him since he left here.
Hon. Joseph Lane
Joseph Lane Papers


Newspaper clipping, NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frame 19.



Newspaper clipping, NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frame 19.



Sir
    On the 2nd ult. I left the Umpqua with a party (10) ten Indians of the Kol-la-wot-sett band with a view to examine the country north of the cape & to select a location agreeable to your instructions of the 24th of June last.
    The Indians were much disappointed in not meeting you at this point & insist upon seeing you before deciding upon a location. I should have proceeded to Dayton yesterday had my health permitted. It becomes necessary to recruit the animals at this point & I will remain here until I see or hear from you & obtain further instructions. I would say that funds in the Umpqua Dist. are low. Before leaving I was obliged to hire some of $700 at a high percentage until my return. Should you have an opportunity to remit a small amt. at this place within a few days it would oblige me much.
    The troops under Major Reynolds have returned to Umpqua & located an encampment at the upper part of the flat at the Five Houses.
Gen. Palmer
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Dayton O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, no number.




Gen Joel Palmer
    Dear sir,
        Since I last wrote you the Indians in this valley have committed some depredations. On the 8 of this month they robbed a house below Mr. Jas. Burnett's on the South Umpqua and set it on fire, but the fire went out and did not burn the house. They robbed the house of several pair blankets and considerable clothing. I went down with 2 Indians from my house and followed their trail some 20 miles but could not overtake them. They came back on the road while I was following them and shot a man by the name of Jim Russell with 3 balls through both arms and one through his breast, wounded him severely but I think not dangerous, and burned Jas. Bean's house 3 miles below Myrtle Creek and then went down near Mr. Burnett's and shot a man by the name of Clink through the arm, not badly wounded. They crossed the river and went west from there.
    I found Lew and the 2 Indian boys at my house when I returned. I sent them on the trail.  I am under the impression they are not aware of peace being made with the whites. They are Indians that formerly lived on the South Umpqua near Mr. Burnett's and was in the medicines at Arrington's on Lookingglass last fall. I have made every effort to get to talk to them and bring them in and will do so. I will use every effort to get them in. If those Indians I sent out can see them and talk to them I don't think they will hesitate a moment. I sent four Indians and 2 white men after their trail. I don't think they are far away. There was a company of volunteers raided in this neighborhood to follow them and kill them. I prevailed on them to let me send the Indians after them and take them out of the neighborhood. Cap. Smith I understand will come through the Canyon today. If it had been for seeing him I would went with Lewy. I will see him this evening and meet Lewy on tomorrow. In the mountains near Riddle's there is a great many Indians in this part of the country scattered round in the mountains. I have been waiting the arrival of Lewy and haven't had any opportunity of seeing those Indians on the North Umpqua. He had only been here a day & some persons gave him liquor at Deer Creek and had him drunk there 2 or 3 days. I have 12 Indians here at my house and have had them there for some time. I understand there is 25 or 30 men on Rogue River near the Meadows. They sent word by a Frenchman to me that they wanted me to come and get them and take them to the reservation. I have no authority to go out of this valley after Indians but I will consult up Smith and if he has any authority I presume he will go apprehend after them. There is a great many scattering Indians in this part of the country and I will use every effort to get them. I have been paying my own money to feed those Indians and I have hired 3 men to assist me to go with Lewy to protect him from the whites and I expected you would send money to defray the expense. I am in great need of funds at present. I shall expect you to refund the money I have had to pay out.
    There was supposed to be about 11 or 12 Indians in the band that committed those depredations on those white men and burned those houses.
    The citizens of this part of the valley are becoming alarmed for fear of those Indians burning and shooting stock, but they appear to be anxious to have them removed from here.
    Those Indians waylaid the road near Mr. Kite's and shot this man. He reported that he saw 6 or 7. He says he was within 20 feet of them when they shot him. He supposed they shot him with revolvers and Mr. Clink said that 5 of them had guns.
    Since writing the above Lew has come in. He informs me that they found where the Indians had camped and they had left and he supposed there was some 40 or 50 Indians and he did not consider it safe to follow them with as small [a] company as he had and he wants me. I will start in the morning. Cp. Smith has not come yet.
    I will hire 4 white men and take the 3 Indians that you sent up.
    I don't think there will be any damage if we can get to talk to them.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, enclosure with No. 280.






NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 276.




NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency, 1856.



Dear Sir
    From information received through Indians I am induced to believe an effect is being made to entice very many of Indians at the Grand Ronde to leave and go north of the Columbia River. The persons we met on the road when coming down are said to be very active in this matter.
    Very likely it may be partly attributed to their desire for obtaining additional payments in the shape of presents or annuities, as having received their proportion in this Superintendency they will go and claim as belonging in Washington Territory, thus constantly be traveling back and forward carrying tales well calculated to keep the Indians in commotion and annoying the agents. I greatly suspect these tricks will be pressed now on account of hopes that they may not be detected and claiming original residence on one side and a desire to return where in fact all claims of that character have long been abandoned. It has been Tumwatta's election with all his people to reside in Oregon and Obannaha with his people in Washington Territory, although the latter were included in the treaty of Jany. 1854, but claiming a right at the Cascades they abandoned all idea of coming [to] this side and thus divided their interest, for originally those two bands were one people. They now stand Obannaha north and Tumwatta south of the Columbia.
    I mention these things that you may know them to apply a remedy against imposture by the tales of crafty Indians.
A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 277.



Sir
    I have the honor to inform you that under the direction of Mr. Palmer the Rogue River and other tribes of Indians from Southern Oregon and upon the coast have been brought upon the reservation, but no means have been provided for their sustenance or shelter during the winter, which is before us, nor are there any funds in the hands of Mr. Palmer to operate with for this purpose. I shall consequently be obliged to submit estimates for this work by the next mail and to draw upon you immediately for funds to carry on the work so that these Indians may be sheltered and fed in accordance with the promises which were made to induce them to come to the reservation. It will be impossible to locate them permanently this fall upon the particular reservation intended for them, there not being sufficient time to do so before the rainy season commences, but they must be situated comfortably in such locations as are found to be most available.
    They have left their homes and come to a strange land reposing faith in the word of the agent of their Great Father and should not be deceived.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 268-269.



Sir
    I have the honor to submit herewith a copy of census list furnished this office by Sub-Agent Metcalfe of the Indians under his charge. He estimates the necessary outlay for provisions and the erection of two warehouses as follows, viz:

	Seven months supply of flour 280,000 lbs.	$16,800.00
	"          "            "       "  beef   140,000  "	14,000.00
	Total	$31,400.00

    The estimate is made for seven months because our rainy season renders it impossible to transport provisions to his post for that length of time.
    The beef is estimated at half rations in the expectation that the Indians by fishing will be able to supply themselves to a considerable extent. Were it prudent to allow them guns they could still further contribute to their own support by hunting, but in view of the recent suspension of hostilities between the whites and Indians and the jealous state of feeling existing between many of the Indian tribes who are thrown together upon the reservation, it is deemed impolitic at present to allow them guns.
    It will also be necessary to provide houses for these 1285 Indians to occupy during the rainy season. Many of these houses can be built upon the ground intended for their permanent home and will consequently be of benefit for time to come, but the most of them will be upon locations found best calculated for their residence during the winter and will be of a temporary nature. I estimate the cost of these houses at $3400.00; seventeen houses at $200 each.
    Our rainy season commencing 1st November renders it necessary that the supplies be on the ground and these buildings completed by that time. I shall consequently be obliged to commence operations immediately and to draw upon you for funds in accordance with these estimates.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City, D.C.
   
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 210-211.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 270-273.



    In 1856 President Pierce appointed Captain [John F.] Miller Indian agent for the Grand Ronde Reservation, bringing him into association with the Rogue River Indians with whom he had fought and treated. He held this position six years, resigning when President Lincoln was elected. The winter Captain Miller took charge of the agency was very rainy. Sickness prevailed, and many Indians died. Chiefs Sam, John, Limpy and George went before him and implored him to allow their people to return to their native haunts. "I shall never forget John's remarks on that occasion," said Captain Miller. "The eloquence of earnestness marked very word of the appeal. 'It is not your wars, but your peace, that kills off my people,' John said." Agent Miller could only answer that he had no authority to grant the request. A plot for an uprising was afterward formed among the Indians. Mary, a daughter of Chief Sam, who never liked the Applegate tribe, told the agent of the Indians' intentions. John and his son Adam were arrested [in 1858] and deported to Merced, Cal. When the steamer on which they were carried reached the mouth of the Rogue River [it was at Humboldt Bay], looking over the forests of their old home, they made an attempt to take the ship and escape. A sailor put a stop to the effort by shooting Adam in the leg. John and his son were afterward returned to the Grand Ronde Reservation, Adam being short one leg, as the effect of the gunshot sound received at the hands of the sailor.
"Captain John F. Miller," Oregonian, Portland, January 25, 1899, page 10



Sir:
    John F. Miller Esq. has been appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate to be U.S. Agent for the Indians in Oregon, in place of Geo. H. Ambrose, resigned. His commission has today been transmitted to his address, Jacksonville, Oregon, with a form for the official bond and oath, and instructions in all respects similar to those given to Robert B. Metcalfe, Esq. as by my other letter of this date addressed to you.
    You will carry out in regard to Mr. Miller, and his entry upon the duties of his office, the same instructions given in case of Mr. Metcalfe.
Samuel [sic] F. Hedges
    Supt. Indian Affairs
        Oregon City, Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 309.



Gen. Joel Palmer
    Dear sir I have been out in the mountains for 5 days in search of those Indians that committed this mischief in this part of the valley. We found where they had been camped from the sign some 2 months. They had left that place some 2 or 3 days before we came there. I was taken very sick in the mountain, and had to return home. I am very ill at present. I sent the Indians and 3 white men on their trail. I hope they will get them in. They have burned a house since I wrote to you before. Night before last they burned a house 3 miles below Myrtle Creek belonging to a bachelor. I am very anxious to have them brought in and sent away.
    Lew has left here the Indian you sent up. He has been of no use to me; he has been drunk ever since he came here. I started in the mountain with him and he was away from me and came back here in this neighborhood and was drunk some 2 or 3 days and went away I know not where he is. The Klickitat Indian is with him; they started for Deer Creek. I presume he is on the Calapooia. He got the liquor I think from some Frenchman [who] lives in this valley.
    The Indians and the 3 white men have not returned yet. I will write you their success by the next mail. I saw Cp. Smith and consulted him about sending those Indians that were here. The men was on the mountain when the command came in and I thought best to not send the fugitives without the men and there is some property here belongs to the Cow Creeks, one yoke of cattle, and there has been one yoke killed by some of the settlers on Cow Creek. In that case I don't know what to do or how to get pay for them.
    I am very unwell at present.
    I will write you by next mail.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, enclosure with No. 280.



Dear Sir
    I have the honor herewith to enclose a letter received at this office during my absence to Oregon City and Portland. The writer, Mr. [J.] P. Day, is a person whom I had appointed to collect and turn over to Cpt. Smith the scattering Indian families in the Umpqua Valley and who is regarded by those who know him as a reliable person.
    It is understood that Cpt. Smith will have reached that part of the country before this time, but whether he will take any action for the collection of those Indians beyond receiving such as are along the line of travel, I am not advised. The instructions to Mr. Day was to collect all Indians in that valley and turn them over to Cpt. Smith. Louis, the head chief of the Umpqua tribe, who speaks English quite well, with two Umpqua Indians have been sent out from the Grand Ronde to assist Mr. Day in the collection and removal of those Indians. I gave Louis funds to defray his expenses, but nothing has been sent Mr. Day.
    I have no doubt he stands in need of funds to carry out his instructions, for at the time I wrote to him it was not known whether he would serve, and of course nothing was sent him. The obstacles thrown in the way of collecting these people seem to demand immediate attention.
    I send this by messenger to Portland and [from] there by steamer to Oregon City.
A. F. Hedges Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 280.



    In compliance with your request I submit the following memorandum of the measures taken to secure the safekeeping of the Indians recently removed by me from Southern Oregon to the Coast Reservation. The reservation is 125 miles long and about 25 wide, bounded on the west by the Pacific Ocean, and on the east and north by the Coast Range of mountains, which are said to touch the coast at its northern extremity. From the existing settlements to the reservation there are as yet known but three passes over the mountains--one toward the northeastern extremity, near the town of Dayton, another toward the middle, near the town of Corvallis (called Marysville on the maps), and the third at the southern extremity immediately along the sea coast. At these three points I have ordered new posts to be established and garrisoned as follows: At the 1st, two companies, Capt. A. J. Smith's 1st Dragoons and Capt. D. Floyd-Jones' 4th Infantry.
    This post will be supplied from Fort Vancouver by means of steamboats to Dayton from whence it is distant 25 miles.
    At the 2nd, one company, Capt. C. C. Augur's 4th Infantry. This will also be supplied from Vancouver by way of Corvallis, distant about 25 miles, to which point steamboats are running regularly.
    At the third 1 company, Capt. and Bvt. Major J. F. Reynolds' 3rd Artillery, which will be supplied from San Francisco by way of the mouth of Umpqua, from which it is distant 20 miles.
    Since the close of my campaign there have been removed to the reservation about 2200 Indians, of which number 1225 were those who had been in arms and fighting against us. The commanding officers of posts have positive orders not to allow any whites to visit the reservation unless they be actually in the employment of the Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and the officer is required to furnish them with a list of his employees. These arrangements, if not interfered with, will in my opinion ensure the tranquility of that section of the Territory. The reservation abounds in game of various kinds, is well watered by several streams emptying into the ocean, which afford a bountiful supply of salmon and other fish--contains sufficient arable land for raising all their necessary grain and vegetables--is heavily timbered and rich in such nuts, roots and other articles of food as these Indians have always been accustomed to and has not yet been considered as worth occupying by the whites. It is to be hoped that no efforts to break up this reservation and remove the Indians will be sanctioned by the Department, for it will be impossible to find a more eligible situation for it.
To Col. S. Cooper Adjt. Gen. U.S.A.
Cayuse, Yakima and Rogue River Wars Papers, University of Oregon Special Collections Bx47, Box 1, Folder 55.



Hon. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Dear Sir
            The enclosed requisitions for medicines, furniture & hospital stores are much needed, more especially the furniture & stores.
    On taking charge of the hospital I found that nothing had been provided for the comfort of the patients, or that was calculated to induce the Indians to abandon their own doctors & customs and submit themselves to civilized treatment.
    In my judgment more can be done & at less cost to the government through the instrumentality of the medical department than by any other medium of operation toward reconciling them to this change of circumstances, and impress upon their minds the important truth that we are their true friends and doing all in our power to improve their moral and physical condition.
    Our hospital building is not what it is desirable they should be for the comfort & convenience of its inmates.
    The improvements now in progress and which will don be completed will place this department in advance on the score of comfort & convenience of any other branch of the service. There is no cause for complaint on account of the temporary character of our accommodations, considering the length of time the experiment has been in progress, the many difficulties to overcome, and the large amount of necessary work to be done. The only wonder is that things are as comfortable & convenient as they are.
    My limited experience & observation of the practice among the Indians has satisfied me that a larger exercise of skill and judgment is required for a successful practice here than would be required by the same number of whites congregated together from any portion of the world, and a want of the requisite qualification would be productive of more disastrous consequences.
    In your letter of appointment, you say--"Your salary will be fifteen hundred dollars per annum until further advice has been received from Commissioner of Indian Affairs on the subject."
    If the Hon. Commissioner will give the subject a moment's reflection he will not I think fail to perceive that the sum of $1500 per annum without rations or perquisites cannot be expected to secure the service required. With the assistance of a competent hospital steward the business of the whole colony of over 2000 souls can be done by one physician in ordinary times, but in times of epidemics the duties would be extremely laborious, but could be endured for a limited period of time. We are certain to have an epidemic visitation of some kind once or twice in the course of the year.
    The allowance of $50 per month will not retain in the service the present very competent steward, who in addition to his skill as an apothecary combines the qualification of being a good interpreter. I hope you will exercise the discretion with which you are clothed by making an increase in his salary that will enable me to secure his permanent service.
    If you see proper, you can refer the Hon. Commissioner of Indian Affairs to my old friends, Genl. Dodge of Wisconsin, for my qualification for the position you have assigned me.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 286.



Sir
    It is very important that the annuities that are to be paid to the Indians in this Superintendency should be paid in the fall season before the commencement of our rainy winter, so that the Indian may be provided in time with the clothing to render him comfortable, the muddy roads consequent upon the rains rendering the locations where the Indians are quartered very difficult of access after the first of November. I consequently desire to be informed what course I shall pursue--whether await the arrival of the goods and funds expected in answer to the estimate for the year beginning 1st July last furnished your office by Gen. Palmer, or whether, on the other hand, to purchase the necessary articles to provide for the wants of the Indians and draw upon your office for the amounts expended.
Hon. Comr. Ind. Affairs
    Washington City
        D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 142-143.



Sir
    In my letter of 22nd August last I had the honor to explain to you that, in consequence of having received no funds from Mr. Palmer, I should be obliged to draw upon you by the next steamer to enable me to meet the immediate and pressing wants of the Indians upon the reservations. I have this day drawn upon your office in favor of W. C. Dement & Co., first and second of exchange for six thousand ($6000) dollars, of which there is intended to be appropriated for the building of temporary houses for Indians on Coast Reservation as explained in my letter and estimate of 23rd August $3400.00; for purchase of medicines, provisions and other articles for immediate use 2600.00; total $6000.00.
    This amount you will charge to me under head of "Restoration and Maintenance of Peace" among the Indians.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 140-141.



Dear sir
    Since you were here I have been making some calculations as to the expense of putting a crop of wheat in the Siletz Valley, and upon consultation with my brother Ephraim we have concluded to make the following proposal, viz:
    To plow and put in 300 acres winter wheat at twelve dollars per acre
    To make rails and fence the land with stake and rider fence at 50 per hundred rails & stakes.
    To erect and lug and split board dwelling house 16x30 feet, two rooms at five hundred dollars.
    To erect one blacksmith shop, build forge, put in anvil block, vise block and door for two hundred dollars.
    To open a road from King Valley to the upper large prairie in Siletz Valley to admit the passage of a wagon so as to haul at least one thousand lbs. with two yoke oxen, for one thousand five hundred dollars.
    Or to open the trail so as to be used as a pack trail for five hundred dollars.
    To transport a set of blacksmith tools and set them up in a shop for one hundred and fifty dollars.
    To burn five hundred bushels charcoal and house the same at 20 cts. per bushel.
    To plan and put in two hundred acres of spring wheat at eleven dollars per acre.
    To fence the same as shown for $5 per hundred rails.
    And to commence business for the speedy and successful carrying into operation the foregoing in ten days from this date if the work is awarded to us.
    To mark on the trail either for a wagon or pack trail being indispensable to enable us to reach the point of operations with the necessary materials, the whole proposition depends upon that labor and a failure to award the opening the trail either by contract or to some other way to prepare the trail for passage of seed, tools &c. would be equivalent to registry to bid for the entire work.
    Payments for the respective propositions to be made when each is completed; the wheat crop however to be paid for at the completion of each hundred acres.
A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 288.



Sir
    I returned on the 4th inst. from a trip to the Coast Reservation having been absent from my office one week.
    I found the Indians in charge of Sub-Agent Metcalfe to be apparently well satisfied except in being a little anxious to know what provision was being made for their shelter, sustenance and clothing for the coming winter.
    I desire to have ground prepared and sown in wheat this fall upon the Siletz River for their use and am inviting proposals for doing that work. When the result is known I will notify you of it, and of my intention to draw upon you for funds to enable me to meet the contract.
    Men are at work preparing houses for these Indians, and I have this day drawn upon you for $6000 to meet this and other necessary expenses. Contracts will also be made for furnishing these Indians with beef and flour, the result of which will be made known to you by this mail.
Hon. Comr. Ind. Affairs
    Washington City
        D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 274-275.



Sir
    I have this day drawn on you for sixteen hundred and seventy ($1670) dollars in favor of W. C. Dement & Co., at sight, first and second of exchange, No. 2.
    This has been rendered necessary by the presentation of a bill by Stewart & Fuller, contractors under Gen. Palmer to furnish beef on the Coast Reservation, for beef furnished after I assumed the duties of the office and previous to 31st August, the contract stipulating that the beef shall be paid for at the end of each month. The amount drawn as above stated you will charge to me under head of "Restoration and Maintenance of Peace."
    I shall be obliged to draw upon you by the next mail for a larger amount to pay for beef furnished to the Grand Ronde Reservation from 16th to 31st August, and shall probably also have to draw to pay for beef furnished from 1st August to close of Gen. Palmer's term, on both reservations.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 138-139.




Sir
    I have to insist that you be more strict in the matter of granting permits to Indians to leave your reservation. The country is full of them, traveling about in all directions, some having no written pass and the most of them with permits long since run out. Some of them are spreading reports through the country of disaffection among the Indians on the Coast Reservation, saying that some of these Indians had left and that the rest would leave soon &c. &c.
    These things are annoying, and as I believe most of these Indians are absent from the reservation on trivial excuses, I desire that hereafter you will grant permits to leave the reservation to no Indians except you know them to be trusty and have reason to believe that their motive for leaving is a just and good one.
    I have also to direct that you will employ men to erect log or split board houses (whichever may be found best available) for the Indians under your charge, and that the work commence immediately. I am satisfied the sawmill being built there will not be finished in time to enable us to protect the Indians from the inclement weather as they should be with lumber manufactured by it, and that we should commence now to prepare such shelter as they need. It is expected, of course, that you will use the utmost economy in the erection of these buildings, using Indian labor as far as practicable, and employing no more white men than are necessary and indispensable to the success of the work. I am not informed of the nature of the promises made to these Indians in regard to buildings by Gen. Palmer, but whatever they are, if reasonable, they should be complied with so far as circumstances and a due regard for economy will permit.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Indian Agent
        Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 216-217.



Hon. A. F. Hedges
    Dr. sir I was requested by Mr. Joel Palmer to assist him in gathering up those Indians in this part of the country, consequently I consented to do so and he appointed me his local agent in this part of the country. There has been a band of Indians committing some depredations here. I have succeeded in getting them in. I have had a great trouble with them. I have finally brought them in, all but 4 bucks and 5 squaws. I have forty-one Indians here. I am very anxious to get rid of them. They are a considerable expense, and I have had no funds to defray the expense except what I have paid of my own.
    I have been very unwell for 2 weeks. I have been very ill. I am not able at present to sit up long enough to write to you. As soon as I get well enough to travel I will start down with those Indians. There is some danger of the whites [who] talks of killing them, but I don't think they will trouble them. I should use every effort to prevent it. I may have to hire a guard to guard them out of this neighborhood.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 311.




Sir
    Yours of 8 inst. is duly recd. Now I can use more care in giving permits. I know not if I allow any at all, for it has only been apparently easy of necessity, where they now obtain permission to leave. Those who leave without permission I cannot be responsible for as having given permission but if any person will inform this office of their whereabouts they will be brought back without delay.
    The reports of "disaffection" among the Indians are groundless. I am and have been of the opinion that no Indian be allowed to leave the reservation for any cause save to get their property, and then to be accompanied by some responsible white person to be paid by the Indians, and when this policy is adopted the agent will be less embarrassed and the Indians better satisfied--for if one is allowed to leave another will wish to, and if denied it will cause disaffection.
    Your further instructions in regard to buildings and the manner of having them erected I most cordially concur--the Indians get one carpenter for Rogue River Indians--one wagon maker--Mr. Robt. Hill has made application for the situation which Mr. Black left.
    Mr. Chamberlain goes down with requisition of articles required at this agency. Please furnish him the necessary funds to make the purchases. Please send by him some five thousand dollars to enable me to make a settlement with employees and articles furnished for this quarter. I consider it necessary that I visit the Indians in Tillamook and with your consent will do so on Mr. Chamberlin's return.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sup. Ind. Affairs
        Oregon City
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 292.



Sir
    Your letter of 8th inst. awarding work to be done in the Siletz Valley has been received. My business is just now very pressing and [I] would not like to leave. Can you not write out the contract and send [it] up to be signed, or bring it up, as I understand you contemplate coming up in a few days.
    I have to suggest however that Cpt. Augur has already commenced the construction of a wagon road from Kings Valley to Siletz, with favorable prospects of getting it through before the rainy season, but unless he be supported by the Indian Department I fear it will be too late to be of any service for this season's operations. The expenditure therefor in opening a pack trail would be a useless expenditure, and some arrangement should be made by which the expenditure may be mutually applied to the object likely to be of permanent utility. I should hope then that your decision in this matter might be reversed and that the proposition for opening a wagon road might be substituted therefor.
A. F. Hedges Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 291.



Mr. Hedges Sir
    I wish to inform you of my progress with the Indians in this vicinity. Agreeable to the instruction of Mr. Palmer received July 29th [who] authorized me to collect all the Indians in this country. I have succeeded in getting five bands amounting to 69 old & young. There is 3 bands yet out that should be got if possible. I shall keep men in pursuit of them until I get them in. I will start those on hand for the reserve the 20th as the road is good now & teams can be got cheaper than when the rain sets in. There is some threats made by some citizens against the Indians, but I hope to get through safe by careful attention. I am in want of funds to defray expenses of the trip. I deem it necessary to have a small escort as well to protect the Indians as to prevent a stampede.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 320.



Sir
    In the collection and bringing to the reservations of the Indians from the Umpqua Valley and that vicinity under the direction of Mr. Palmer, a number were left from some cause, whom it is now deemed proper and expedient by this office to bring to the reservation, and Daniel P. Barnes of Douglas County has been appointed a special agent of this office for that purpose, with instructions to effect the object desired with as much expedition and economy of expenditure as possible.
    Quite a number of Indians have also become scattered through the Willamette Valley, and similar measures have been taken to bring them back to the reservation.
    It is considered best for the interests both of the whites and Indians that the latter be confined to their reservations, their intercourse with whites outside of the reservations almost invariably resulting in trouble and ill feeling.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Indian Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 282-283.




Sir
    The following appointments have been made by this office which I hope will meet with your approval, to wit:
    Milton Shannon as farmer to the Umpqua Indians upon the Grand Ronde Reservation, with salary of one thousand dollars per annum.
    John Coburn as carpenter to the same Indians with pay of five dollars per day.
    T. J. Wright as physician to the Indians on the Coast Reservation with salary of fifteen hundred dollars per annum with horse and accoutrements and residence furnished him.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Washington City O.T.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 144-145.




Sir
    You are hereby notified of your appointment as local agent for this Department in the Umpqua Valley particularly for the purpose of collecting and bringing to the Grand Ronde Reservation the Indians that may be scattered through the country in your neighborhood and that are or have been in charge of James P. Day, local agent under the late Superintendent.
    If it is necessary to employ teams to transport the aged and infirm Indians, or the property that may belong to the Indians that it is necessary to bring with them, you are authorized so to do and to incur such other light expense as may be unavoidable for the success of the undertaking. It is very important that you proceed at once in the discharge of this duty, that the Indians may be located upon the reservation before the commencement of our winter rains--
    Let me hear from you by return mail, if possible.
Daniel P. Burns Esq.
    Roseburg
        Douglas County O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 220.



Sir
    While at your post recently I was informed by the superintendent of farming operations that he had the utmost difficulty in keeping under his control a sufficiency of wagons, teams, chains &c. to carry on with proper success the specific business for which he is appointed.
    I would suggest the propriety of turning over to him the teams, wagons, chains &c. necessary for use in his department, to remain in his hands to be used for the purposes he may designate, and no other, except perhaps in some extreme case. It is very important that every facility be afforded the farmers for the efficient discharge of their duties. I would prefer that you employ outside teams at fair prices to haul your goods from Dayton rather than deprive the farms of their necessary implements. I understand from Gen. Palmer that "Rogue River Sam" owns two wagons and five yoke of oxen. If the trouble between him and the farmer resulted from the farmer using Sam's oxen and wagons, you will see that the matter is rectified and his property delivered over to him. If this is the true state of the case, Sam has been wrongfully treated, and I request that you will at once set the mater right with him and satisfy him no wrong was intended.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 224.



Sir
    I have given the Klamath Indians on the Grand Ronde Reservation permission to go to their own country, leaving the reservation about the 29th inst. Their guns, which are in the hands of the military, you will pay them for in horses, blankets or such goods as they may want that you have.
    I will designate men to accompany them through the settlements. You will furnish the Indians with several days' rations, whatever they can conveniently carry with them.
    The government is to be at no further expense in their transportation. If you think it necessary for them to have two or three guns to hunt with during the winter you may place the guns in the hands of the white men, to be delivered to the Indians when they part from them on their return.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 225.



Sir
    I have the honor to herewith enclose contracts entered into with Berryman Jennings and Henry Fuller for furnishing supplies of beef and flour to the Indians upon the Coast Reservation.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Indian Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
   
       I, Henry Fuller of Portland, Oregon Territory, in consideration of the subjoined agreement on the part of Absalom F. Hedges, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Oregon Territory, do hereby for myself, my heirs and legal representatives, covenant, promise and agree to and with the said Superintendent in the penal sum of ten thousand dollars to deliver to the said Superintendent at the Coast Station or at the Yaquina as the agent in charge of the Coast Reservation may from time to time direct, six hundred or more pounds of good beef per day for six months, beginning on the first day of October next at the agreed price of eight cents per pound.
    It witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of September A.D. 1856.
Signed in presence of
    We, Joel Palmer and Cris Taylor of the county of Yamhill, Oregon Territory, do hereby bind ourselves, our heirs and legal representatives as sureties for the said Henry Fuller for the full and faithful performance by him of all and every the foregoing covenants, promises and agreements. In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this eleventh day of September A.D. 1856.
Signed in presence of
   
    I, Absalom F. Hedges, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Territory of Oregon, the above-named Henry Fuller, complying with the foregoing agreements on his part, as such Superintendent do hereby covenant, promise and agree to and with the said Fuller, to pay to him the said Fuller the full sum of eight cents per pound for six hundred or more pounds of good beef per day for six months beginning on the first day of October next, to be delivered at the Coast Station or at the Yaquina, pursuant to his foregoing agreement.
    All payments shall be made at the office of the Superintendent at the end of each month, upon the certificate of the agent in charge as to the quantity received during the month, when I, as such Superintendent, will pay to the said Fuller the full contract price of eight cents per pound therefor, less ten percent retained to ensure the delivery of the remainder.
    In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this eleventh day of September A.D. 1856.
   
    I, Berryman Jennings of Clackamas County, Oregon Territory, in consideration of the subjoined covenants, promises and agreements of Absalom F. Hedges, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the United States within and for the Territory of Oregon, do hereby, for myself, my heirs and legal representatives, covenant, promise and agree to and with the said Superintendent in the penal sum of twenty thousand dollars to deliver to said Superintendent at the Yaquina Bay or at the Coast Station near the mouth of Salmon River in Oregon Territory on or before the first day of December next one hundred tons of good merchantable flour at the agreed price of fifteen dollars per barrel.
    In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of September A.D. 1856.
Signed in presence of
   
    We, John C. Ainsworth, Thomas Pope and Josiah Myrick, of the county of Clackamas aforesaid, do hereby bind ourselves, our heirs and legal representatives as sureties for the said Berryman Jennings for the full and faithful performance by him of all and every the foregoing covenants, promises and agreements. In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this tenth day of September A.D. 1856.
Signed in presence of
   
    I, Absalom F. Hedges, Superintendent of Indian Affairs of the United States within and for the Territory of Oregon, the above-named Berryman Jennings complying with the foregoing covenants, promises and agreements on his part, as such Superintendent do hereby covenant, promise and agree to and with the said Jennings to pray to him, the said Jennings, the full sum of fifteen dollars per barrel for one hundred tons of good merchantable flour delivered by him in good condition on or before the first day of December next at the Yaquina Bay or at the Coast Station near the mouth of Salmon River in Oregon Territory pursuant to his foregoing agreement. All payments shall be made at the office of the Superintendent and whenever twenty tons of said flour shall have been so delivered as evidenced by the certificate of the agent in charge at the said points of delivery, I, as such Superintendent, will pay to said Jennings the full contract price of said twenty tons, less twenty percent retained to ensure the delivery of the remainder.
    In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this tenth day of September A.D. 1856.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 146-151.



Sir
    I have the honor to enclose herewith a contract entered into with Joel Palmer and Ephraim Palmer for putting in three hundred acres of wheat in the Siletz Valley and doing sundry other work therein mentioned, all of which is deemed of the highest importance to the interests of the Indian Department in this Territory.
    Besides the Indians now upon the Coast Reservation, a census of whom was furnished your office in my letter of 23rd August, it is intended that so many of the tribes from the southern part of the Territory now temporarily located on the Grand Ronde Reservation as it may be deemed expedient shall in the spring remove to the Siletz Valley or in that vicinity upon the Coast Reservation. The necessity of the work provided for in the enclosed contract will therefore be apparent. It will also be noticed that the contract made with Berryman Jennings for furnishing flour to the Indians upon the Coast Reservation, which is this day transmitted to you with another communication, provides that a part of said flour shall be delivered at the mouth of the Yaquina River on said reservation. Mr. Jennings has purchased a small schooner for use in this adventure and will in a few days make an attempt (which it is confidently believed will be a successful one) to deliver a cargo as agreed upon.
    If it is found that this means of conveying supplies to the Indians upon said reservation is available, an incalculable advantage will be gained to the Indian Department in the increased facility for conveying supplies, goods &c. to the said Indians and in the thousands of dollars saved in the expense of transportation. It is also intended, if this means of communication is found available, to make a further contract for putting in spring crops of wheat, potatoes, peas &c.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner of Indian Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
   
    We, the undersigned, Joel Palmer and Ephraim Palmer, of Dayton, Oregon Territory, agree jointly and severally to do the work hereinafter mentioned for the compensation specified, in the Siletz Valley, on the Coast Reservation, for the benefit of the Indian Department of the United States, and by advice and direction of A. F. Hedges, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Oregon Territory.
To wit:
    To plow and put in three hundred (300) acres of winter wheat, at twelve ($12) dollars per acre, furnishing all the requisite material for the same.
    To make rails and fence the same with a six-rail fence, staked and double-ridered, for five ($5) dollars per one hundred rails and stakes.
    To erect one log or split board dwelling house, with the requisite doors, windows, chimneys &c., sixteen by thirty (16x30) feet, two rooms, for five hundred ($500) dollars.
    To erect one blacksmith's shop, build forge, put in anvil block, vise bench and doors for two hundred ($200 ) dollars.
    To transport a set of blacksmith's tools, and set them up in the shop, for one hundred and fifty ($150) dollars.
    To burn five hundred bushels of charcoal and house the same at twenty (20¢) [cents] per bushel.
    All the work herein specified to be executed in a workmanlike manner and to be completed by the 1st day of Feb. 1857.
    The said Superintendent agrees on his part to pay in cash, at the prices hereinbefore set forth, the amount for each class of work so soon as the same shall be completed. And for the plowing and putting in wheat, payment to be made upon the completion of each one hundred acres.
    Witness our hands and seals the date and place first above written.
In presence of
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 152-157.



Sir
    I have designated Mr. Van Schuyver and Henry Coleman to accompany the Klamath Indians outside of the white settlements on their way to their country. You will furnish these two gentlemen with riding horses and rigging and a pack horse and rigging and with the necessary rations and camp equipage as far as convenient and expedient for the trip. You will call upon Capt. Smith to know whether he has objection to the departure of these Indians. If you consider his objection good (if he makes any) return them for further orders.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Indian Agent
        Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 225.



Sir
    Yourself and Henry Coleman are designated to accompany the Klamath Indians who leave the Grand Ronde Reservation on the 27th inst. to go to their own country. Your route will be by the new emigrant road up the McKenzie Fork of the Willamette River. Sub-Agent Raymond is directed to furnish you with a horse and rigging for each of you and with one pack horse and rigging with a sufficiency of provisions and camp equipage for the trip.
    These Indians have behaved well and bear a good reputation, and it is hoped you will be able to take them through the white settlements without any difficulty occurring upon the trip with whites living along the road. You will accompany them for one or two days' journey entirely beyond the white settlements so that they may be beyond the possibility of causing any difficulty or being molested.
    At the ferry on the Willamette and any other ferry that you may deem necessary you will pay for crossing the Indians and their goods--the horses can swim. I send you one hundred dollars to defray such expenses as may be unavoidable. I also send some blank vouchers in duplicate which you will fill out and have signed by parties with whom you contract bills for ferriage &c. Be particular in getting vouchers for all your expenditures.
W. Van Schuyver
    Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 226.




Dear Sir
    Previous to the location of the Table Rock Indian Reservation in Rogue River Valley in Sept. 1853, C. B. Gray and Christopher Thompson, two friends of mine, had taken claims in the territory afterwards included in the reservation. By the provisions of that treaty as I have been informed, the sum of $15000 was reserved out of the annuities to be paid the Indians for the purpose of liquidating claims growing out of depredations committed by said Indians during the war and to compensate persons who were deprived of land claims previously taken in the territory encompassed within the limits of the reserve. Now my object in writing is to inquire what action has been taken by the Indian Department with reference to the claims of persons who were deprived of their land by the location of said reserve, and what the prospect is of their getting paid for their improvements in accordance with the decision of the commission appointed by the Indian Department for the purpose of determining the amount of those damages. There was an audit amounting to some three or four hundred dollars in favor of said Gray & Thompson. By giving this business your attention as soon as other engagements will permit you will much oblige.
A. F. Hedges Esquire
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        for Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 298.



Sir
    I have this day drawn on your office at sight my first and second of exchange in favor of James O'Neil, agent Wells, Fargo & Co., for forty-two hundred ($4200) dollars, for which I am accountable under the head of "Restoring and Maintaining Peace." I am placed in an exceedingly embarrassing condition in regard to funds.
    Unadvised of the extent to which Mr. Palmer has drawn upon you and of the amount to which I am limited in my drafts upon you, and yet unavoidably incurring very heavy expenses very day which must be paid or the operations of the Indian Department in this Territory cease and the Indians upon the reservations be left to shift for themselves.
    No money was received from Gen. Palmer, and no remittances have been received from your office for salaries of Supt. and agents, for incidental expenses, or for the fulfillment of treaty stipulations with the Indians now upon the Grand Ronde Reservation. I have paid over eight thousand dollars to Sub-Agent Raymond to be used in defraying the expenses of the present quarter on the Grand Ronde Reservation.
    The expenses of this reservation are very heavy, and there is no opportunity of curtailing or suspending these expenditures to ascertain the wishes of your office or to wait for funds, as the month of October is the only one left to us before the commencement of the rainy season, the only one in which we can do the immense amount of work which is to be done to prepare the Indians on the reservations for winter. The cost of supplying beef and flour alone to the Indians upon the Coast and Grand Ronde reservations is about twelve thousand dollars per month. The Indians east of the Cascades will also require some feeding.
    Then the building of houses on the Coast Reservation, the making of roads and putting in 300 acres of wheat on the same reservation and doing work thereon as per contract with General Palmer forwarded to you by this mail, the feeding of the Umpqua Indians now in charge of Sub-Agent Drew, the collecting and bringing to the reservations the scattering Indians in Umpqua Valley, who are even now on their way up in charge of J. P. Day, special agent under Gen. Palmer, who has been occupied for some time and has been constantly calling for funds, the collecting of the Coquille Indians yet scattered down the coast--these must all be accomplished and the resulting expenses, enormous as they will be, must be paid if we retain the faith of the Indians and reap any benefit from the steps which have been taken heretofore. Some twenty thousand dollars are now due for beef and flour furnished the Indians upon the Coast and Grand Ronde reservations, and I shall consequently be obliged to draw an additional draft by this mail upon your office for ten thousand dollars.
    The farmers upon the Grand Ronde Reservation are actively engaged in putting [in] a large quantity of wheat and are constantly breaking new land to add to the size of the farms and enable the reservation to do as much as possible towards supporting itself during the next year. A large quantity of the wheat harvested this year will be needed for seed. I fear the flouring mill and sawmill will not be finished in time to be of any service to us this winter.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 278-281.




Sir
    Yours under date of Aug. 27th did not arrive until yesterday's mail & I hasten a reply.
    The Coos bands of Indians, numbering sixty-five (65) men, eighty-seven (87) women, forty-four (44) boys & thirty-eight (38) girls total two hundred & thirty-five (235).
    The Lower Umpquas numbering thirty-eight (38) men, fifty-four (54) women, fourteen (14) boys & nineteen (19) girls total one hundred & twenty-five (125) are at present located in the south end of the military reserve at the mouth of the Umpqua River, which military reservation as now located connects with the Indian reservation north & is bounded on the east by the Umpqua River, a distance of seven (7) miles, thence from that point by a line running due north to the Indian reserve.
    Located on the Siuslaw River we have twenty-six (26) men, forty-two (42) women, six (6) boys & eleven (11) girls, total eighty-five (85).
    These Indians having never been removed from their own lands have only been supplied with an occasional sack of flour when they visited the Agency--nothing more will be necessary for them during the winter months.
    This morning Mr. John Dulley spec. agt., sent by myself to collect & bring in the Indians remaining in the Upper Coquille, arrived with the band numbering twelve (12) men, twenty-four (24) women, eight (8) boys & ten (10) girls, total fifty-two (52).
    There is yet remaining on the headwaters of Coos River (which I have sent for & expect in a few days) five (5) men, eight (8) women & six (6) children, total nineteen (19) which will make the total number at this encampment four hundred & thirty (430).
    Should they remain at this point during the winter months it will be necessary to supply them with full rations of flour & after the fishing season is past with a limited amt. of beef. A small amount of lumber should be provided for houses during the winter & from the fact that they have been encamped some ten (10) months they are sadly in want of clothing & blankets. The Siuslaw should also be furnished with clothing, as they have been prevented during the late war from supplying themselves as heretofore.
    Contracts for a supply of flour can be made with the merchants of Scottsburg as advantageously as at any point (I think). I have engaged a supply for the next month at 6½ cts. [to] be delivered. Beef is now furnished the military post at twelve (12) cts. A contract can be made with the same person at a much lower figure. Lumber can be purchased at the mills on the river at $20 twenty dollars per lb. & the Indians can build their own houses.
    Clothing can be purchased at Scottsburg in such quantities as desired at a small advance on San Francisco prices.
    I might add that a bill of clothing belonging [to] the Quartermaster Department O.T. is to be disposed of soon which would embrace all the articles needed for distribution at this point.
    I would also suggest the propriety of establishing a school at this Agency during the winter months, as many of the Indians desire it.
    Some man with his wife would be best suited to perform the duties, as the greater benefit would be derived to the women in learning to sew &c. &c. thereby in a measure tend to civilize them. Suitable buildings &c. &c. can be obtained at this point.
    I should have communicated with you at a much earlier date had I not been confined to my room for the past four weeks with severe ophthalmitis of the eyes & even now it is with much difficulty that I am able to see to write.
    I may add that there is a great want of funds at this Agency. The outstanding bills amt. to near four thousand ($4000) dollars. Should you have funds at your office a liberal remittance would be very acceptable at this time.
    Hoping that you will excuse the defects in this communication (from partial blindness of the writer).
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Oregon City O.T.
(P.S.) Since penning the above I have completed arrangements to send the Coquille Indians to Yaquina with their people. The encampment at this point if desirable would be taken to the Siuslaw, yet the expense of furnishing provisions &c. &c. would be greatly increased.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 316.



Sir
    I deem it proper to submit to you a written report of the proceedings in relation to the repairs done upon the road leading from this place to the coast station of which you directed me to take charge.
    On Saturday the 13th of Sept. I made a verbal request of Sub-Agent Raymond to furnish me with 6 white men & as many Indians which he declined, alleging that it was unnecessary to furnish any white men, that all I had to do was to throw the responsibility upon the Indians by telling them what to do & leaving them to do it, when it was sure to be done.
    On Monday morning following I handed to him a written requisition for one white man, one teamster & twelve laborers as well as for a team & all articles I considered necessary for the comfort & efficiency of the party for 2 weeks. I took upon myself the responsibility of employing Mr. Bentley to accompany me. On Tuesday at noon I started & commenced work the same afternoon within 3 miles of this place. When the party was mustered at supper I discovered that Mr. Raymond had sent me 23 Indians of George's band of Rogue Rivers, at least 10 more than could be employed to advantage upon the road in one party. These Indians I found to be insolent from the beginning, but they worked very well for the first 3 days, when the novelty of the work in which they were engaged passing away & being emboldened by numbers they continued to grow more insolent & ungovernable until Tuesday the 23rd when the most of them had nearly ceased to labor. At this time I was with the party at the head of the Long Prairie within 6 miles of the coast station & had repaired the worst places, making the road passable for loaded teams up to the point & learned from packers & various other persons that there was no place impassable beyond. We had at this time been 24 hours without beef or sugar & had but one day's rations of flour, although I had informed the agent at this place by letter (which he received on Sunday the 21st) of our situation.
    I consulted Mr. Bentley upon the proper course to pursue & we were both of the opinion that in view of the spirit of insubordination manifested by the Indians, the want of supplies & the uncertainty as to when we should receive any, that to remain longer would be attended with no benefit to the Department or credit to ourselves & that the only course was to return to the agency, which we accordingly did on the 24th.
    I consider the road as now passable for loaded teams, although there are some 12 or 15 places which could be better of having corduroy bridges thrown over them.
    In all other places as far as I went the road is now firmer & better than I expected to find it.
A. F. Hedges Supt. Ind. A.
    Oregon City O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 302.



Capt. Hedges
    Dr. Sir,
        The Indians at the Yaquina have been entirely out of flour since the 11th Sept. and have only had about half rations of beef. I learned from Capt. Bledsoe that you were to be at the Grand Ronde today with some horses. If so, could you send me six gentle horses, to pack. If so, I will haul the flour to the Siletz and pack it from there to the Yaquina, thus avoiding the crossing of rivers with horses, which is dangerous. This is the only practicable means of supplying those Indians until the vessel arrives. Capt. Bledsoe has taken a contract for building a portion of the Indian houses, and I have placed Mr. Abbott in charge at Yaquina, who is an excellent man and reliable in every respect. You will be pleased with his energetic, prompt manner of doing business. The men you employed to work will leave me Saturday, which will retard the erection of buildings here; please send me a good carpenter. I have been obliged to draw upon Col. Jennings for funds to pay employees, which I hope we will be able to refund at the end of this qr. If you cannot come over from the Ronde, please send or write and I will go up if necessary. All quiet here except occasionally quarrels amongst the Indians.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 303.




Sir
    A contract was entered into at this office on the 11th inst. with Henry Fuller, the said Fuller contracting to furnish the beef required for the consumption of the Indians upon the Coast Reservation for six months, beginning on the first day of October next, said beef to be delivered at the Coast Station or at the Yaquina as the agent in charge may from time to time direct.
    Payment for the beef to be made at this office at the end of each month upon the certificate of the agent in charge as to the quantity received by him during the month.
    A contract was also entered into with Benjamin Jennings on the 10th inst., the said Jennings contracting to furnish one hundred tons of superfine flour at the Coast Station and at the Yaquina Bay, together, on or before the first day of December next. Payment to be made at this office upon the delivery of each twenty tons as evidenced by the receipt of the agent in charge of Coast Reservation.
R. B. Metcalfe
    Sub-Indian Agent
        Coast Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 231.



Hon. A. F. Hedges
    Dear Sir
        This will be handed you by Doctor Wright.
    I don't wonder he feels disinclined to take charge of the hospital on the coast. If you should see proper to authorize him to go on & provide such things as are indispensable for his comfort & that of his patients, I presume he could be induced to undertake the charge. I found nothing there that looked like a hospital or quarters for the physician. Mr. Metcalfe had nothing for his own comfort, or the comfort of those in his employ, and the consequence is that his hands have all left him & I don't wonder at it.
    We have no cause for complaint here. My requisition for hospital stores has been recd. & the medicines will be here the early part of next week. I could if directed to do so furnish the coast with a temporary supply from this hospital & you could then fill his requisitions at your earliest convenience.
    I will send you a report for August & September next week. Ague & fever & bloody flux are rife in camp just now.
P.S. I have consented to have the cooking stove I had recd. for the hospital sent to Mr. Metcalfe & am to take the one designed for him when it comes.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 296.



A. F. Hedges
    Superintendent Indian Affairs Oregon Territory
Dear Sir
    Owing to the delicate condition of my health at this time, it is impossible for me personally to superintend the present removal of Indians now on their way to the Yamhill reservation, and in consequence of the above fact I have placed Jeremiah McCay in charge of said Indians. I do also authorize and appoint said McCay in my stead and in my name as local agent for the district to present all claims and charges against the Indian Department for expenses necessarily incurred in collecting, subsisting and removing the aforesaid Indians to the reservation, to receive all moneys from the Department in liquidation of the aforesaid claims and for defraying all necessary expenses which were absolutely demanded in carrying out the objects of the Department as made known to me through its instructions, and to do all other acts pertaining to my agency which I could do or would be required to do in furtherance of the duties devolving upon me as local agent were I present.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 308.




Sir
    Your instructions of Sept. 23 is recd. In advising with Capt. Smith it is thought inadvisable to allow the Klamath Indians to leave the reservation at present.
    In regard to Sam's and the farming difference I would say Sam had five yoke oxen. He made his selection & afterwardly wanted an additional yoke. He had the wagons for hauling wood, but as we were embarrassed in consequence of our limited number of wagons, I ordered the wagon used, for the major part of our wagons were en route to [the] coast & Dayton.
    As long as the wagon is so long coming we shall have no supply of flour and I am expecting him today. We shall require some additional teams and by having some here slaughtered which are not fit for further service I can replace them. All is quiet.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 299.




    In consequence of the many quarrels and fights amongst the Indians the employees have all left me, but I think there is no just cause why they should be alarmed. The trouble is confined entirely to the Indians. There were some Indians from the Tillamook who lost their horses and after hunting all day they found them hid in the brush. They charged the Rogue River Inds. with the theft, who were displeased with the accusation and came down to punish the Flatheads when a general row commenced. They fought through the night and there has been several fights today. Nothing serious will grow out of it, but I would recommend that we disperse them as soon as possible. There are too many together, and peace cannot be maintained until they are scattered. Please urge upon those men the importance of getting their vessel in to the Yaquina before the rains.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 305.



    Estimate of funds needed at the Oregon Indian Superintendency during the fourth quarter 1856, beginning 1st October and ending 31st December 1856
For Grand Ronde Reservation

Pay of mechanics & laborers	4250.00
Pay of Indian labor on farm, roads &c.	5250.00
Pay of teamsters & expense hauling annuity goods,
provisions, lumber &c. & freight bills	2500.00
Pay of making roads	1000.00
Pay of incidental expenses	1000.00
Pay of hospital purposes	1000.00
Purchase of materials for tin shop	1000.00
Purchase of materials for blacksmith	300.00
Purchase of materials for carpenters	350.00
Purchase of materials for building purposes	750.00
Purchase of grain, seeds &c.	1000.00
Purchase of 150 tons flour for winter supply	10,000.00
Purchase of beef, 2000 lbs. per day	12,500.00
Completion of sawmill	3750.00
Further expense on same	1000.00
Bills unpaid on Grand Ronde Reservation Sept. 30th, due farmers,
mechanics, laborers &c.	6242.00
Pay of company, supt. farming, 3 farmers, 1 tinner, 1 blacksmith,
1 gunsmith, 3 head carpenters, 1 wagon maker and 2 school teachers	4500.00
Pay of physician & assistant	600.00
On Coast Reservation
Purchase of 140 tons flour for winter supply	20,000.00
Employ of pack trains to pack flour &c.	1000.00
Building houses	3000.00
Pay of employees	2000.00
Unpaid liabilities of third quarter 1856	6920.00
Pay of two physicians	750.00
Required for Umpqua Sub-Agency
To pay outstanding bills	4740.00
Purchase of ten tons of flour	1300.00
Purchase of 10,000 pounds of beef	1200.00
Pay of incidental expenses	720.00
Purchase of clothing	5000.00
Purchase of lumber	200.00
Pay of school teacher and expense of school	500.00

    No report arriving from Agent Thompson of estimate for his district, and the departure of the steamer for California near at hand, I will close this estimate and will forward Mr. Thompson's by next steamer. I will conclude with

Salary of Supt. & 3 agents	2333.33
Salary of three sub-agents	750.00
Incidental expenses, this office	2000.00
Insurance and transportation	3000.00
Restoring and Maintaining Peace
To say--For collecting and conducting Indians to reservations
For adjusting difficulties and preventing outbreaks	10,000.00
In all--	123,506.33

One Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand Five Hundred and Six and 33/100 Dollars
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 167-170.



Capt. Hedges
    Dr. Sir
        Mr. Croke called at my station by your permission with a view ultimately of establishing a Catholic mission. He spoke to the Indians yesterday through my interpreter. They were highly delighted and express a great desire that he may be permitted to establish a mission amongst them. I shall oppose as long as I am connected with the Indian Department the establishing of a Methodist mission. Any other denomination I would be pleased to see established here, but do not feel free to recommend one in preference to another. You will readily see the importance of giving exclusive privilege to one denomination, as Indians cannot see the propriety of having so many different roads, all having the same destination.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 313.








Sir
    The Superintendent left for the Dalles this morning and I have this evening received a line from him, written at Portland, and directing me to write to you by express to suggest to you the propriety of sending an additional force to the coast station. He gives as reasons for making this suggestion the fact that the white men in the employ of Sub-Agent Metcalfe are all leaving him through fear of the Indians at that station and no others can be induced to go unless they are protected by a large military force, and he also thinks that those Indians will hear of, and be influenced by, the information which has reached us today through reliable channels of the outbreak and determined hostility of the powerful tribe of Nez Perce Indians. The Indians on the north of us appear to be making another desperate effort to unite in bitter hostility against the whites. The Supt. thinks the Indians at the coast station, already too insolent, will become more so upon hearing this news, unless a larger military force be placed thereon.
    I send you today's issue of the Portland Times, which contains much of the news from the north.
Capt. A. J. Smith U.S.A.
    Commanding Military Post
        Grand Ronde Indian Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10.



Sir
    I received your note some time since and have delayed answering it until I have received my commission, which I did this day. As soon as I fill my bond and make some other arrangements that is necessary I will call upon you at Oregon City. I will be there by the last of this month if possible.
Capt. Hedges
    Superintendent
        Indian Affairs
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 122.



A. F. Hedges
    Superintendent &c.
        Oregon Territory
Dear Sir
    Enclosed I send you the claim of Mrs. Mary A. Harris. Be pleased to acknowledge the receipt and if any error or omission occurs please also to inform me and suggest the remedy and much oblige.
Jacksonville
    Oct. 7th 1856
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 325.


To the Editor of the N.Y. Tribune.
      Sir: Will you permit me to occupy a small portion of your columns with a brief personal narrative of occurrences growing out of the Oregon war. I belong to the small minority in Oregon who believe, with Generals Wool and Palmer, that the late war was unnecessary and cruel in the extreme, and that all the burning of property, the destruction of life and expenditure of public treasure, would have been saved if the civil authorities had administered equal justice instead of calling the people to arms. I have lived since the fall of 1853 in Rogue River Valley, Southern Oregon, situated between the headwaters of the Sacramento and the Willamette valleys, and have had an opportunity of knowing much of the Indian tribes, both on the plains as well as on the Pacific Coast. Notwithstanding the heart-rending statements of savage barbarity which the Oregon papers have constantly spread before the public, it is a fact there are far more murdered Indians than Indian murderers, and when the whole truth is known, I believe it will appear that Indians are less savage than some who assume to be civilized.
      Often as I have looked upon these people, dwelling in small communities in the shady grove or along the lipid stream, bountifully supplied with fish and roots and berries for subsistence, and apparently happy in the relationship of family and friends, the conviction was forced upon me that they were living as much in harmony with the beautiful surroundings as their more toiling and anxious brethren of another race. I could not perceive wherein they were not equally with us endowed by their Creator with the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And after they were driven from their pleasant homes, and their domains usurped by invaders, I never saw anything in their condition or conduct but what aroused my deepest sympathy and commiseration. To have submitted to robbery and outrage of the gravest kind without resentment would be more than Christian; to have remained passive and indifferent would be less than Men.
      I do not see under the circumstances how they could have done different or better than they have done, for practically they have only exclaimed with our own noble sires, "Give us liberty or give us death." And for this they have been denounced as not only savages, but as "varmints" and demons unfit to live, and the military force of two Territories has been drawn out to destroy them from the earth.
      Under the deep conviction of duty, I never failed, from my arrival in to my departure from the valley, to declaim against the great wrong our people were doing. And, though many good citizens privately told me of similar convictions, yet I know of none in whom it was strong enough to prompt open expression. I write of this not with vain boast, but with the mingled feeling of deep regret and lively joy. Regret that so many of my neighbors and friends should cower in base subjection to speculators and rowdies, and yield their constitutional right to freedom of speech. Joy, because my life is spared, contrary to my own expectation and the predictions of my friends and foes, who said I should fall by an assassin.
       All the papers in the Territory were closed against me, yet they were unsparing in denunciation, and letters which I sent to the post office for the California papers were not allowed to pass, but were opened in Jacksonville, so that when I arrived in San Francisco not one had been published. At length a letter, or the substance of one which I had written, appeared among them in the N.Y. Tribune of April 5. This brought matters to a climax. Indignation meetings were got up and the writer denounced in the strongest language, and not a tongue dare move in his defense. Having been privately informed of what was intended, I fled in the darkness of night to Fort Lane, and was, by an escort of United States troops, conveyed beyond the scene of excitement. I arrived by the steamer Illinois last Saturday, and am pleased to find myself, though among strangers, in your city.
New York, Sept. 30, 1856.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frame 20.




NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 14-17.



My Dear Sir
    I recd. a note from your secretary on my way down home with my wife on Saturday last. Smith & Davis' bill had not been received when I left, but I found them here on my return on Monday & send you them enclosed receipted. I sent you Doctor Steel's bill receipted & my report for the month of September by your messenger.
    You need not mind replacing the lost brandy as proposed. I can substitute alcohol for it, of which I have a good supply. My requisition called for a small galvanic battery which has not been furnished. I want it, not only for its medicinal power in rheumatic & nervous affections, but to operate on the credulity of the Indians, who are daily falling victims to their own doctors, who are doing an immense amount of mischief, the consequences of which may be fatal to the peace of the agency. The two recent murders were caused by their influences. The evil can only be remedied by our securing a superior power over them, and this can best be done by setting up the most extravagant pretensions and sustaining those pretensions through the instrumentality of opium, alcohol & lightning, backed up by a really successful practice. With them medicine is entirely powerless without an active living faith. The influence of the imagination upon their physical system is most wonderful. Old Elijah by request of his son (who had been lingering for months without any apparent physical cause) killed the doctors who had power over him; when the husband of the woman killed Elijah, and where the killing will end no one call tell. The Indian doctors claim the power to kill or cure at their will & pleasure.
    The Indians often become depressed in spirits, fancy themselves sick, fall into the hands of these "remnants of the old Salem witches," and often pine away & die, when two or three doses of bitters would perform to them a marvelous cure. The Boston medicine would be pronounced "hyas kloshe" ["very good"] and the doctor a "skookum" ["powerful"] doctor, and who can for all after time wield a most wonderful power over them for good or evil.
    I am greatly obliged to you for the promptness with which you have supplied my requisitions, and I congratulate myself on having it in my power to receive your substantial aid through the instrumentality of the hospital department of this agency, placed under my charge by your kind partiality in carrying out the very humane policy of the Department at Washington.
    The present severe rain storm has caused much suffering among the more improvident of the bands. This has not in my opinion been the fault of those having charge of the agency. I only wonder at the comparative comfort which has been secured to them since you took charge of the Superintendency, considering the great embarrassments under which you labor as a consequence of the hurried manner in which so large a number of destitute Indians had been thrown together by your predecessor without preparation for their comfort being made in advance.
    Temporary houses are being erected as fast as possible, but an immense amount of labor remains to be performed before they will be properly cared for. The large disbursement of money required may startle the Department at Washington, but to undertake to economize the expenditure by withholding from them any portion of what was promised by your predecessor as a consideration of surrendering up their arms, and leaving forever the graves of their fathers for a new and unknown home, would in my judgment be a "penny wise and pound foolish" policy.
    The health of the agency has not changed materially since my report of the 1st inst.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 314.




Sir
    In another communication I have informed you of my drafts by this mail upon your office to amount of ten thousand dollars. I would again call your attention to the fact that not a dollar of funds has been placed in my hands to meet the ordinary expenses of this Superintendency, and that my only resource for funds with which to carry on the business of the Indian Department in this Territory is by drafts upon your office.
    I have drawn only such amounts as were imperatively necessary, hoping that funds would be received from your office. Agents and sub-agents are all clamorous for money and claims are constantly pouring in from every quarter. Seventy-one Indians who had been left in the Umpqua Valley and were occasioning some trouble in that vicinity were brought to the Grand Ronde Reservation within the past few days, in the collecting and conducting of whom to the reservation near three thousand dollars expense has been incurred. I hope to be able to forward by this mail an estimate of funds required at this Superintendency during the present (fourth quarter 1856) quarter.
    As far as made up, exclusive of the agency in charge of R. R. Thompson, I find the funds needed to be over one hundred thousand dollars, exclusive of annuity goods.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 235-236.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 174-175.



Sir
    In the absence of the Superintendent I will reply to your letter of 23rd September in reference to the action of the government upon claims for property included in the Table Rock Indian Reservation, that the late Superintendent informs me that he has had no advices upon the subject from the Office of Indian Affairs since forwarding the report of the commissioners who were appointed by the Indian Department to examine into the claims referred to.
A. A. Skinner Esq.
    Astoria O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10.



Capt. Hedges,
    Dear Sir returned 17th from the Rogue River country and brought with me fifty-four Indians, thirteen of whom are warriors and the remainder women and children. While at Rogue River I was annoyed continually by some bad white men, who were continually putting mischief in their heads and advised them to run to the bush and not to go to the reserve. I was compelled to employ men to stand guard all of the time, as I and the interpreter employed had to be absent most of the time below or in the Shasta Costa country, all of which tribe we got within four miles from my main camp. I had to leave them at sundown in order to get some food for ourselves and promised to be with them again at daylight, and at an early hour I was with them, or one of them, as the others had run away. The one remaining stated that he had all confidence in me, but that I was not able to protect them and their women from the bad white men and for proof referred to the chief of the Shasta Costas to prove the fact, as two of his women had been taken by white men. (One of whom ran away from the man and came into camp, and I would not give her up to him. He then swore that "he would kill every Indian and anyone else." I sprung to my feet and asked him to repeat the words again, presenting my rifle to his heart. He backed down nor did he trouble me more.) One though is still with the whites whom I will have. The chief said in reply to the question asked by the Shasta Costas that I had promised to get the squaw. His reply was he is not able and we have no confidence in the men on the beach, as they invited us in and when we came they beckoned for us to approach, which we did unarmed, and when within a short distance they opened upon us a fire and killed seven (7) of our number. This is the circumstance you heard of before I left you, and I do believe that it was all through treachery those men were killed, and through the lies of a man who had got all of the gold he could from them and who had one of their women. I do tell you of a truth that bad white men and squaw men are the cause of all the troubles here now. You see that by their course I have lost between 40 & 50 Indians. After my return here I was advised by Dunbar and Lt. Macfeely to send to Capt. Stewart for assistance and he has started 15 men and with that number I will be able to get all that are still out in all exclusive of those I now have 150, whose names are Chetcos, Mikonotunnes and Chasta Costas.
    I thought that the army were the proper ones to aid in getting them in, and thus save expenses to the Indian Department.
    I will enclose the amt. of expense I have been forced to incur and the amount of provisions necessary to support them as near as possible. Last night I had one squaw stolen, and three days provisions. One, who was induced to run away (and marry one James M. Hunt) by a Spanish prostitute living with the probate judge whose name is John W. Sutton and induced by the same women and harbored in the house of J. W. Sutton. Now all good citizens are desirous that they should be punished and an example made of persons of this character. There is no justice of the peace here, nor do I know how to act, but that they have interfered with the Department is a fact, and if a stop is not put to it all of your laudable efforts will be futile.
    All of the good citizens speak of your efforts in the highest terms, but they are in the minority and can do nothing for you.
    I feel as though I could never offer another argument in favor of the people in this section of the country. I wish you would procure legal advice as to the course I should pursue with them and inform me by the next steamer, and if it necessary for me to have any greater power please let me have it so that this country may be released from men and Indians of similar character. I feel assured that I now can get all of the Indians in and the troops can guard them until your pleasure can be known. Please inform me whether the marriages that have or may occur shall be recognized, as I believe that when the public have been forbidden to marry, and an agent of the Department here, and he as a legal guardian not notified nor the squaws understanding anything about the nature of a marriage contract, should be recognized nor any attention paid to the same.
    I shall leave on 25th ultimo and proceed with the troops to the Indian country and you may expect a communication from me by the next steamer.
    I think that by the time I collect the remainder, the weather will be such that you cannot move them until February or March and beef can be procured for 15¢ per lb. and not less.
    Mussels can be had at intervals and supplied in lieu of beef. I have had to pay for 300 lbs. of beef at the rate of 20¢ per lb. and flour as high as 12½ cents only for 200 lbs. and the remainder at 7¼¢. It will be therefore more economical to ship flour here and avoid the profits imposed, and I can return most of the flour I have used so that your flour will only cost 4¼¢, which will be a great saving.
    Capt. Stewart is most desirous of affording you all the assistance in his power.
    I had expected to have sent the Indians I now have up by this steamer, but will not now as I will want the assistance of the two chiefs I have to go with me and on whom I can rely, as I have their families as hostages and who have behaved themselves well thus far, and who are very anxious to get all of the Indians in, and are themselves anxious to go to their friends on the reserve. I will render you an account current by the next steamer. My expenses for which I have vouchers in all will amount to five hundred dollars, and until the close of the present month will be near six.
    As I shall avoid the expense of employing two men from this time, and the two I shall be compelled to retain here will be but 60 per month and the interpreter I am compelled to take with me, his compensation will be at the rate of one hundred dollars per month, as he will not serve for less, and as Col. Buchanan and Palmer paid him $5.00 per day. You may depend upon an issue of at least 100 rations per day and should the Indians remain here until March, as I believe they will have to, will be 120 days, and not less, and may exceed it some but will not fall short any so that you are enabled to send all required by the returning steamer as the next will be in the height of our bad weather.
    I called upon Lt. Macfeely and asked him for the use of the buildings (which the government considered not worth removing) for the use of the Indians and was refused which I do understand, as there is I believe there is a private speculation in view. I should think the govt. would be glad to save any additional expense in erecting any buildings, and I am sure if you apply for them you can get the same or make them show their hand to you, as all were the warm friends of Palmer and would do all they dare to throw obstructions in your way. This by way of suggestion. The Indians I have now here are in the old Indian ranches, which I have repaired without any expense to the Department, but will be compelled to go to some expense for the balance of those out, and which would be avoided by using those of the government.
    I will now give you an estimate of all that will be wanted by all the Indians in this vicinity, and all I will have in less than one month, viz:
Blankets for 100 Indians: 50 pr.
Shoes for same, one third for men and women from 4-8½ & ½ 33
Needles & thread
Red flannel for worn [women's?] coats: 150 yds.
Shirts hic [sic]: 8 doz.
Pants: 2 doz.
Flour 100 rations for 120 days: 12,000 lbs.
And for that I have fed 1,500 lbs.
Soap
Sugar
Rice for old & sick
Tea
Mustang liniment 2 bot.
1 doz. camp kettles
2 doz.fry pans
4 doz. tin cups
The above estimates in regard to clothing and the articles you can judge as these I think and know they want to make them comfortable and should not all be used they will not be wasted.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
P.S. All that may be shipped of provisions or money please consign to Mr. Peter Ruffner, who is always at home and a reliable man and owns all of the lighters, and who will attend to all matters promptly.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 329.



The United States
    To Nathaniel Langell                Dr.
1856
    For services of one yoke of oxen, in removing the Rogue River Indians to the Coast Reservation, under the direction [of] Doct. G. H. Ambrose, Indian agent, 14 days at $1.50 per day, $49.00, forty-nine dollars.
   
Territory of Oregon      )
Jackson County             )  ss.
    Be it remembered that on this 25th day of October A.D. 1856 personally appeared before the undersigned clerk of the district court in and for said county, Nathaniel Langell, who being by me duly sworn, says that the foregoing account as stated is just and true and that the services mentioned therein were rendered by his said oxen and that he has not received any pay for said services, but that the same remains due to him from the government of the United States.
Subscribed & sworn to before
me this 25th day of October
A.D. 1856. In testimony
whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal of
said court at Jacksonville
in said county & Territory the day
and year last above mentioned.
   
Territory of Oregon      )
Jackson County             )  ss.
    Be it remembered that on this 25th day of October A.D. 1856 personally appeared before me, the undersigned clerk of the district court in and for said county David Thompson and James Teeters, who being duly sworn say that they were in company with the party assisting in the removal of the Rogue River Indians to the Coast Reservation, that they know that Nathaniel Langell furnished a yoke of oxen in removing said Indians, and that said oxen were so employed for the term of fourteen days; they further say that the services of said yoke of oxen is worth three dollars 50/100 per day.
Subscribed and sworn to
before me this 25th day
of October A.D. 1856.
In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed
the seal of said court
at Jacksonville in
said county and
Territory aforesaid the
day and year last above
mentioned.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 334-336.



    ANTICIPATED IMPORTANT INDIAN MOVEMENT IN THE NORTH OF CALIFORNIA.--The Siskiyou Chronicle (Yreka) of Nov. 20th says:
    We are in possession of a letter dated Salem, Oregon, October 19th, 1856, addressed to Maj. Gen. John D. Cosby, and furnishing very important information of the movement of the Indians of Southern Oregon. Want of space prevents our publishing the letter this week, but we shall do so next. The gist of it is, that upwards of one hundred and eighty Indians have been turned loose from the Grand Ronde Reservation, by the Superintendent of Indian Affairs in that territory on the plea that they are California Indians, and have left for the Klamath Lake country, taking with them rifles and ammunition. The Indians on the reservation are said to be very much dissatisfied, and it is expected that the whole, amounting to some 4,000 or 5,000, will leave as soon as spring opens.
Daily Commercial Register, Sandusky, Ohio, January 3, 1857, page 2.  The Register apparently never did publish the entire letter.


    Lieut. Allen, who has been in Capt. Williams' company in the Klamath Lake campaign against the Modoc Indians, visited us the other day. He looks as well as could be expected, having suffered considerable from the effects of a wound he received at Hungry Hill, on the 31st of October last, while a private in Capt. Harris' company of volunteers.
    He informed us that Gen. Cosby had returned to Yreka with his command, but he (Allen) had fears that the Modocs would follow the volunteers and commence murdering and robbing again, as they were not more than half whipped. The volunteers captured about thirty horses from the Indians, which no doubt they had stolen from the settlers. Some of the citizens of Rogue River Valley had obtained their lost horses. There is a probability that others of the citizens who have lost horses might find them among those brought in. We understand that they are on a ranch near Yreka.
Table Rock Sentinel, Jacksonville, October 25, 1856, page 2


    "Elijah," a chief of the Rogue River tribe, and a warm friend of the whites, was killed a short time since by another Indian named "Henry."
"Oregon and Washington Territories," New Orleans Daily Crescent, November 29, 1856, page 1


    Since I came in from the war south, I have been on the Grand Ronde Reservation and have talked with many of the chiefs, Old Sam in particular, who says Gen. Palmer has told him lies, that he promised to let him and his people go back to Rogue River Valley as soon as the war ended, and now he will not do it--and most all of the petty chiefs of the Rogue River Indians talk in the same way. I am of the opinion that it will require a sleepless vigilance by those having charge of the Indians on the Reservation to prevent a greater outbreak amongst these people than has ever cursed the country.
"The War in Oregon," letter of December 2, 1856, Evening Star, Washington, D.C., February 5, 1857, page 1


    The San Francisco papers have advices from Oregon to the 25th of October, fourteen days later than we have had.
    There had been no further Indian disturbances. Elijah, a chief of the Rogue River tribe, and a warm friend of the whites, was killed a short time ago by another Indian.
"From Oregon," Vicksburg Daily Whig, Vicksburg, Mississippi, December 2, 1856, page 1


Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sir, I avail myself of this opportunity to inform you how matters stand at this place. Since you left here, I have built myself a comfortable little house and have moved into it. The next day after you left I wrote to Mr. Raymond for some blanks and he refused, saying that Agent Metcalfe was the proper person to furnish them, on applying to Mr. Metcalfe he said he had not got any and could not obtain them, and thus the matter stands.
    I received information from Dr. Glisan that the drugs you sent me were at Dayton. If you have an opportunity you will please forward them to me at the earliest moment, as I am in great need of them, as also a hospital.
P.S. We had a pretty little Indian fight at this place--some five or six badly wounded.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 326.



Sir
    I have the honor to inform you that the Superintendent is absent on a trip to Yaquina Bay, on the Coast Reservation, expecting to meet at that place the schooner Calumet, loaded with flour and lumber for the use of the Indians on that reservation. The schooner was dispatched from Portland on the 14th inst. by B. Jennings, contractor to furnish flour for the Coast Reservation, but although the adventure is an individual one, the government is greatly interested in its success, as remarked more fully in Superintendent's letter of 22nd September.
    In consequence of the absence of the Superintendent the property accounts for the third quarter 1856 cannot be forwarded by this mail.
    Quiet prevails among the Indians upon the reservations. Indian affairs east of the Cascade Mountains are still in a disturbed condition. A communication received this mail from Wm. Tichenor, appointed by the Superintendent on 25th September a special agent to collect upon some suitable location for wintering there the Indians still remaining scattered through the country about Port Orford, details the difficulties encountered by the acts of unprincipled white men but thinks he will succeed in accomplishing his object. It is estimated that two thousand dollars will cover the expense of collecting these Indians, over one hundred in number, subsisting them for four months, and providing a few blankets, shoes, cooking utensils and other articles absolutely necessary.
    The estimate for the funds required for this Superintendency during the year beginning July 1st 1857 will be forwarded, I think, by next mail.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 187-189.



Sir--
    During the month of Sept. 1855 I received from Gen. Palmer, then Supt. Ind. Affrs., a bill of merchandise, the invoice prices of which I was then unable to obtain.
    The receipts of the same with prices affixed I suppose are in your office & I send by spec. messenger J. E. Clark for a copy of the same.
    The goods were disbursed in the October following & not having the prices the abstracts remain in this office.
    You will also notice in referring to my accounts for 3rd quarter 1856 the urgent necessity of forwarding funds to the amt. of at least ten thousand ($10000) dollars, no funds having been forwarded to this agency since June last.
    Capt. Rinearson, who had charge of the Coquille band of Indians while on their way to the reservation, left several orders on the Department which have been presented to this office for adjustment. Some of the accounts I know to be just & should be settled, some I authorized to settle the same on presentation of bill & order.
    On the 24th ult. a messenger arrived with dispatches from Spec. Agt. Tichenor earnestly requesting that aid be sent him from the military post at this point. He had succeeded in collating most of the Indians south of Port Orford, but when within a few miles of camp the whites by threats &c. &c. has caused a greater part of them to leave. At the time of writing he had forty (40) at Port Orford & one hundred & fifty (150) including those that left him yet remaining at Chetco & Pistol River.
    Capt. Stewart immediately sent a command of fifteen (15) men with a noncommissioned officer to his assistance.
    A report has just reached me by some friendly Indians at the Siuslaw River that a large party including the Coquille bands of Indians intend leaving the reservation & from the reports of some whites I fear it may prove true. Should they make the attempt they will if possible be checked north of the Umpqua & retained under guard until I am instructed how to proceed.
    No Indians now remain between Port Orford & this place. All have been removed to the reservation.
    Spec. messenger J. E. Black, who will take this to your office, is instructed to return immediately with such instructions & funds as you may desire to send.
A. F. Hedges Esqr.
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Oregon City O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 331.



Dear Sir:
    Before my departure from Oregon I transmitted to Genl. Palmer my quarterly returns for the second quarter '56, about which time you succeeded him in the Superintendency and will probably have the adjustment of those papers, in which event, should any mistakes have occurred, or any further explanations [be] needed, I trust I will be able to make the correction, or give the required information upon addressing me a line at this place, or upon my return to Oregon the coming December.
_____ Hedges Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        O. Ty.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 381.



    ASPECT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS.--Reports are daily reaching us, says the Standard, from the reserves along the coast, that much disaffection reigns among those located there under agents. Old John and his band are becoming very restless and impatient of restraint. He has declared that he was not satisfied, and that he would disarm Capt. Smith and his men, and then make his way through the Willamette Valley to his old stamping ground in the Rogue River Valley. Although we do not fear his threats, yet his language is indicative of anything but a permanent peace. Several bands have run away from the reserve; some have been pursued and induced to come back, while others are still left to go as they list.
Sacramento Daily Union, November 3, 1856, page 1


Sir:
    I have the honor to enclose a letter to J. Ross Browne, Esq., directing him to obey your orders in visiting Oregon and Washington Territories and attending to the business of your department therein.
    The allowances made to Mr. Browne as special agent of this department are $10 per day for compensation, $6 per day for personal expenses, and 10 cts. per mile travel, and I have instructed Mr. Browne, as you will perceive, to charge these allowances to your department instead of to this during the time of his absence under your orders.
Hon. R. McClelland
    Secretary of the Interior
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 968-969.



Sir
    The papers submitted for my examination with your letter of the 1st inst. disclose a most extraordinary state of things as connected with the Indian service in Oregon and Washington Territories which require immediate investigation. I would proceed cautiously, however, and not break off present plans or arrangements until a thorough examination can be had, and with this view recommend that ample instructions be given to J. Ross Browne, now at San Francisco, to proceed forthwith to those Territories, institute the requisite investigation, and report the result for your information. In the meantime, your operations there should, of course, be as limited as practicable. It is important that the instructions to Mr. Browne should be sent off by the next steamer.
To the Commissioner of
    Indian Affairs
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 319-320.



Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sir I arrived here last evening on the hunt of medicine & will make my report before I return. I wish you to urge the necessity of some kind of hospital to Mr. Metcalfe. While he views [omission?] therefore it is certainly necessary at this point. I would const. one myself if the place designated.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 330.



Sir
    I have the honor to inform you that on the 13th October last I left Oregon City for Yaquina Bay, expecting to meet at the latter place B. Jennings' schooner Calumet, loaded with flour for Indians upon the Coast Reservation. I arrived at Yaquina Bay on 19th Oct. and remained there until 24th, meanwhile exploring Yaquina Bay in a canoe and finding it extending twenty-five miles into the interior, deep, from one-fourth mile to two miles in width, tide setting all the way up. The schooner not arriving, on the 24th I left for this place, returning by the Siletz Valley and crossing the Coast Range of mountains by the new road leading from Kings Valley, a very good road, opened by the military and Indian Department. The Siletz Valley exceeds my earnest expectations. The land is very rich, grass abundant, prairies beautiful.
    I contemplate the location of all the Indians west of the Cascade Mountains, except the Willamette Valley tribes, upon the Coast Reservation, principally in the Siletz Valley and around Yaquina Bay.
    It is a fine country, admirably suited to the Indians, more secluded from the white settlements than the Grand Ronde Reservation, and more easily reached with supplies if the entrances of the Yaquina and Siletz are found to be safe for vessels.
    By express I learn that the schooner arrived in Yaquina Bay on 28th October and was discharging her cargo of flour. She experienced rough weather outside and in a gale was forced to throw overboard ten kegs nails and two thousand feet of lumber with which I had intended to erect a temporary building to put the flour in. A log one has been erected for the purpose. The schooner has not yet returned to Portland, and we have not definite information of the opinion of those on board of her as to the safety of the entrance of the Yaquina, but I think it perfectly safe, or at least sufficiently so for our purposes, perfectly safe in good weather. I think the mouth of the Siletz can also be entered. If so, another great advantage will be gained, as the Indians can transport provisions up the Siletz River in canoes. I found many Indians at the Yaquina awaiting the arrival of the schooner with much anxiety. Many of them were sick, but a skillful physician, J. S. McSteeny, has been appointed to attend them. Many of the Indians on the Coast Reservation are anxious to be removed to the Siletz, and as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made for their comfort a large proportion of them will remove from Salmon River, where they are now located, to the Siletz Valley, without any expense to the government.
    Gen. Palmer and brother have commenced operations in the Siletz Valley on their contract enclosed to you in my letter of 22nd September.
    A number of the Indians from the Coquille and other tribes who have been scattered through the coast region, south of the Umpqua, recently arrived at the Yaquina in a very destitute condition. A consequent expenditure will be necessary. Hospital buildings, physician's quarters, sub-agent's quarters, houses for Indians and warehouses at mouths of Yaquina and Siletz will be to erect [sic]. A blacksmith must be employed. These expenditures are heavy, but I am obliged to make them although I am not informed whether the treaty made with these tribes by Gen. Palmer 11th August 1855 is confirmed. I hope, however, that the necessity of these expenditures will be apparent to you. It is unquestionably better to expend the money in this way than in fighting the Indians, and it is certain that unless they are treated kindly, their wants supplied and the promises that were made them by Gen. Palmer complied with, their faith in the government will be entirely checked and a war with them the consequence.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 246-248.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frame



Sir
    It is reported that several of the drafts drawn by Gen. Palmer and by Gov. Stevens have been protested and returned here. I hope this will not be the case with any of mine. I have drawn only as absolutely compelled to by the necessities of the branch of public service committed to my care and have frequently used several thousand dollars of my own funds rather than draw upon your office until you could be fully advised of the necessity for the draft. Unless the drafts are promptly paid or this office in some manner insured a constant supply of funds we will be obliged to turn our Indians loose again, and the consequences would be disastrous to this Territory and discreditable to our government.
    We are so far from Washington City that the Superintendent of Indian Affairs for this Territory is compelled to assume great responsibility or suspend the business of his office entirely. He must act often in important cases immediately, when he would much prefer to receive instructions from your office before acting. Supt. Palmer took the responsibility of selecting the Grand Ronde Reservation, of making a heavy outlay thereon, of removing all the Indians west of the Cascade Mountains to the Grand Ronde & Coast reservations, of promising them sustenance, shelter, comfort, support, protection. His acts were approved of by your office. It is my duty to carry out the work he has begun with your approval. But I have no money to do all this with. I know not to what extent my drafts will be honored. I am allowed to draw on but one fund, and yet there is an immense expense outside of that fund for carrying on the business of the Grand Ronde Reservation that cannot be suspended or avoided. It takes four months to get advices from you, and if I should suspend business for that four months our Indians would scatter to the four winds and God only knows the consequences that would result from it. With all due deference I would suggest a different plan of operations from that hitherto practiced. Let the bond of the Supt. be increased if necessary. Let your office inform him of the appropriations made for the benefit of the Indian Service under his charge, give him his instructions, and authorize him to draw upon the funds appropriated. I am satisfied that it is the only way that Indian affairs in the Oregon Superintendency can be conducted to ensure the confidence of the Indians in the Supt. and in the government. Then let the salaries of the officers of the Indian Department of the United States in Oregon Territory be made the same as they are in California, that reliable  and suitable men may be induced to take and retain these offices. Then can the Indian affairs of this Territory be conducted with credit to the government, with benefit to the Indian, without Indian wars.
    Make the Supt. render his accounts monthly, if necessary; guard the interests of the government in any manner that may be thought proper, but give the Superintendent power to draw his money when he needs it, when the Indians need it, and he can conduct his business satisfactorily to his government and to himself, and I really do not think he can unless this power is granted him.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 197-201.



NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 1003-1005.  Refer to correspondence about the Columbia on the 1857 page.



Sir
    You will employ as many Indians as may be thought necessary in getting saw logs and doing other work that may be necessary to enable us to put the sawmill to running as soon as the contractors for building it complete the contract.
    You will please advise me by return of expressman, if practicable, whether Mr. Hawn is about through with his contract (to deliver the mill ready for running) and give me your opinion as to the manner in which he has performed the work.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Indian Agent
        Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 253.



Sir--
    Near the close of the month of October I employed the chief of the Coos band of Indians to go on the headwaters of Coos River & collect together what few Indians remained at that point & bring them into this encampment. Spec. Agent S. Scholfield accompanied him.
    After all the Indians were collected & started on their way under charge of Spec. Agent Scholfield one of the Indians (an old man) was shot & instantly killed by a white man by the name of Deris [Davis?].
    Such are the facts as I learn them indirectly. What should be done in the premises. Is it the usual custom to reach such men by the United States or territorial laws.
    All the Indians in my district are now encamped north of the Umpqua. Have heard nothing from the command that left the military post to assist Spec. Agt. Tichenor.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Oregon City
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 348.



Sir
    The steamer has just arrived bringing eighty-five Indians from Port Orford in charge of Special Agent Wm. Tichenor. These are a part of the Indians left in that country by Gen. Palmer, and they have been brought up en route for the reservation, as it is found impossible to retain them in [the] Port Orford neighborhood and avoid constant trouble. The expense will be heavy but it is thought the object justifies it.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 254.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 205-206.



Sir
    Being now regularly qualified as an agent of the United States among the Indians of Oregon Territory, you will take charge of the interests of the Indian Department of the United States upon the Coast Indian Reservation. You will make your headquarters in the Siletz Valley, selecting the most suitable location in said valley for the purpose. You will immediately commence the erection of the necessary buildings, among which I consider a hospital as very important. The necessary preparations should be made for putting in spring crops. I think it advisable to break land in each of the different prairies, thus enabling you to locate the different bands or tribes separately, if preferred, in order to avoid contention among them.
    It is confidently believed that your supplies may be landed by the schooner at the mouth of the Siletz River. If so, the erection of a warehouse at that place will be necessary from which both Salmon River and Siletz can be supplied. You will use every laudable means to encourage and induce the Indians to labor, as it is believed to be greatly for their benefit and to tend greatly to their civilization and contentment.
    A contract has been made with I. & E. Palmer for putting in 300 acres of wheat, for the erection of a dwelling house and blacksmith shop, for the burning [sic] of coal &c. in the Siletz Valley, a copy of which will be furnished you.
    A physician (J. S. McSteeny) and a blacksmith (George Leisure) have been appointed and directed to proceed to the Siletz Valley and enter upon their duties. They will be subject to and require your direction and aid in the discharge of those duties. As soon as your supplies will warrant it, you will induce as many of the Indians as are disposed to agricultural pursuits to remove to the Siletz Valley, which it is hoped they will be able to do without expense to the government.
    As soon as possible, a sub-agent will be placed at Salmon River to relieve you of a part of your duties, and as soon as it can be done Sub-Agent Drew will be ordered to the southern part of the reservation and will have charge of the Indians south of Yaquina Bay.
    As we have no information of the confirmation of the treaty made with the coast tribes, you will limit your improvements to such only as are absolutely necessary to maintain peace and to protect the Indians from the storms of winter.
R. B. Metcalfe Esq.
    Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 254-255.



Sir,
    I have the honor to transmit herewith the bond of R. B. Metcalfe as Indian agent in the sum of ten thousand dollars, which is approved by this office.
    The Coast Reservation has been assigned him as his district, the Siletz Valley his particular location. I changed the amount of the bond from five to ten thousand, deeming the former amount too small.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 194-195.



    I expected to saw by Saturday. I had some trouble with the dam, the back being uneven and soft on the top, the sand would run through and the rock I put in is on the bottom next the bedrock. I have hauled a large quantity of fir boughs and put in and should be loaded with clay from the high bank the sand will never stop the water. I have built the extra dam beyond my contract and trust to your liberality for the pay and if you say the word I will wheel clay from the high bank to stop the water. I have had hard luck by high water and high wages and would like to take charge of the sawmill and also finish the grist mill and can saw all the lumber that is wanted for the grist mill. Please send or fetch one thousand dollars. I shall saw by Tuesday if nothing happens.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 336.



Sir
    Yours of 10 inst. is duly recd. by expressman Brown.
    I fear that Mr. Hawn will be unable to complete his contract in the specified time. Not having seen the article of agreement I [am] not prepared to say whether he is doing his work agreeable to contract or not, but think he is not.
    The embarrassment which I am under in reference to my a/c is in consequence of the frequent changes of agents at this agency during the first & second quarters of this year. Many of the vouchers not being properly taken from late Sup. has caused a delay which has rendered it impossible to furnish the papers or returns in due time. They are now received and will be duly forwarded in three or four weeks. It is utterly impossible to furnish earlier. I regret that the cause has produced an unavoidable detention. If I am not allowed funds I shall necessarily be obliged to suspend operations which would I fear result in evil consequences. The Indians require to be made comparatively comfortable, otherwise there will be cause for dissatisfaction. Our expenses are necessarily more now than they will be at any future period. The building of houses for Inds., the preparing a hospital for sick, the building houses necessary for employees, the putting in the fall crop, the opening roads, making fences &c. &c. forbid our limiting ourselves with less than that expense which is necessarily incurred. I am satisfied that it is not the want of interest that the Sup. feels in the success of the policy as a reason for his withholding funds, and when properly explained to the Ind. Department Washington there will not be the first complaint. We labor under many embarrassments not necessary there to mention but will appear hereafter when we have overcome them.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sup. Ind. Affairs Oregon
        Oregon City
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 335.



Sir
    I have the honor to inform you that learning that a number of Indians still remained in the country around Port Orford and upon Lower Rogue River, and were the cause of much trouble and some bloodshed, on the 25th September last I appointed Capt. Wm. Tichenor a special agent of this office to collect these Indians at some suitable location in neighborhood of Port Orford with a view of providing for them during the winter and preventing further collision between them and the whites. Capt. Tichenor left for Port Orford on steamer of 27th September. On the 22nd October he wrote a long letter to me from Port Orford detailing the difficulties encountered in collecting the Indians, caused by the conduct of unprincipled white men who kept the Indians in constant alarm by their threats and caused them to disperse once or twice, when Mr. Tichenor had succeeded in collecting them near Port Orford. Mr. Tichenor stated that in consequence of the prevalence of this state of things he was disposed to bring the Indians up on the steamer to Portland.
    Being myself absent from Oregon City on [a] trip to Yaquina Bay at the time of the reception of Mr. Tichenor's letter at this office, my secretary acknowledged its reception and suggested to Mr. Tichenor that his instructions did not authorize or contemplate the bringing up of the Indians by steamer, and that he had better await further instruction from the Supt. before doing so. The steamer of the 11th inst., however, brought Mr. Tichenor and eighty-seven Indians.
    He justifies his action upon the ground that it was impossible to retain the Indians upon any location in the neighborhood of Port Orford, on account of the conduct of the whites, the fear of the Indians, and the absence of military protection. That prudence and humanity alike dictated that they should be brought away and placed with the remainder of their people upon the Coast Reservation. At this season of the year and without animals to pack them it was impossible to bring them by land, and immediate action was necessary, consequently he took the responsibility of bringing them by steamer. The steamer arrived at Port Orford on her way up in the night. The Indians were put on board without a contract being made as to the rate of transportation. Ten dollars per head was the rate charged Gen. Palmer for similar service. Upon arrival here, Capt. Dall of the P.M.S.S. company's steamer Columbia presented his bill charging twenty dollars per head for seventy-five Indians. I refused to pay it, but considering the small number of Indians brought up offered him twelve dollars per head for seventy-five. He refused to deduct one cent from his original bill and so the matter stands. I desire instructions from your office upon the subject.
    Capt. Dall bases his charge upon the ground that there was no contract and consequently he has a right to charge what he pleases, and that he charges them as steerage passengers, although they laid upon the deck in the rain unsheltered except by some old tarpaulin. I am satisfied that Mr. Tichenor acted as he believed to be right and as was doubtless best under the circumstances. The chiefs of the Indians brought up are very intelligent. They remained in camp opposite Oregon City some four days and were very favorably impressed with their observations and the treatment they received. They say they will never fight the whites again. They had no idea that the whites were so numerous or that there were such good people among them. They begin to think that the Port Orford people are the only bad whites we have.
    I turned them over to Agent Metcalfe at this place, who has taken them up the river by steamboat to Corvallis, from whence they go by land to the Siletz Valley on the Coast Reservation.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 263-265.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 245-250.




Sir
    I have the honor to request that you will inform me as to the rights of the military who are located upon the Indian reservations, whether they are privileged to go upon the reservations, select a site for their station, mark out a certain quantity of land which they intend to claim for their own exclusive use and benefit, without consulting the wishes or in any way recognizing the jurisdiction of the Superintendent of Indian Affairs in the matter. I make this inquiry because the military located upon the reservations appear to be pursuing this course. On the Grand Ronde I gave one of our most influential and worthy Indian chiefs permission to build a house in a certain location which he had selected, upon one of the farms purchased by Gen. Palmer. Some time afterwards, this chief informed me that he collected materials at the spot and commenced work when he was ordered by Capt. Jones to stop the work and informed that he could not build at that place.
    At the Siletz Valley, on the Coast Reservation, they have made a choice selection of their location, without conference with, or authority from, the Superintendent, and, I am informed, have so made their bounds as to have entire command of the pass from the Siletz Valley over the Coast Range of mountains to the Willamette Valley. If they have the power and the will to go upon our reservations and take our finest locations and make their own boundaries, thus making the interests of the Indians and of the Indian Department secondary to that of the military on Indian reservations, they will certainly embarrass our operations very much and tend to defeat the good influence expected to result from the colonization of the Indians.
    I have none but the most friendly feelings toward our military and feel that the hearty cooperation of the military and Indian Department is indispensable to the success of our respective operations on the Pacific Coast, and I only make these inquiries to be satisfied of the duty of each and avoid collision.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comdr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 258-259.  Original on NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 236-239.



Sir
    I have the honor to inform you that the schooner Calumet arrived at Portland on [the] 14th inst. having returned safely from her trip to Yaquina Bay, where she delivered in good order over thirty tons of flour for the use of the Indians on the Coast Reservation on B. Jennings' contract bearing date 10th September last. She will leave Portland in a few days with another cargo of flour which they will endeavor to deliver in the mouth of the Siletz River on said reservation, and if not able to do so will take it to the Yaquina. Delivery at the mouth of the Siletz is very desirable as the Indians will be principally located on the Siletz and can transport their own supplies from the mouth up. I will keep you advised of the success of these trips of the schooner.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 259-261.



Capt. Hedges
    Dr. Sir,
        I find it necessary to make more extensive preparations for the removal of these Indians than I anticipated from the fact that besides the children there are many old and infirm who will have to be hauled. I have found it necessary to purchase two wagons and teams besides the one recd. from you. I have also purchased supplies for the Indians and employees which I hope will last me until the arrival of the schooner. If she has not left before the receipt of this please have Col. Jennings send me fifty bushels of oats and a few hundred pounds of beans & potatoes for present use; I shall endeavor to meet Capt. Tichenor at the mouth of the Siletz and make the necessary arrangements for the reception of his cargo. I will leave here tomorrow if the weather is such that I can travel. Please pay all of my due bills and I will sign a recpt. for the amount when presented.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 340.



Sir
    Enclosed you will please find receipts "signed duplicate" for twenty-five hundred ($2500) dollars forwarded to this office by Spec. Messenger Jos. E. Clark.
    By the mail of the 13th ult. I received a dispatch from your office advising me to draw on your office for twenty-five hundred ($2500) dollars which I immediately did through the Quartermaster General's office at Salem "duplicate receipts" for that amt. having been signed by me & forwarded to my brother (J. W. Drew), which draft I hope will be honored by you on presentation, as most of the funds received have already been expended.
    At present everything regarding the Indians within the bounds of this district is I believe satisfactory, the Indians quiet.
    From the fact that the Indians at this point were almost destitute of clothing, having been encamped about twelve months, I deemed it expedient on your order to purchase some two thousand ($2000) dollars worth of blankets & clothing & disburse the same immediately, which I hope will meet your entire approbation.
    Sergeant Dunn, in command of the detachment sent to the assistance of Spec. Agent Tichenor at Port Orford, has returned to this post & reports some fifty or sixty Indians yet remaining of Chetco & Pistol Rivers & which refuse to come in unless some eight squaws now living with white men are hung or brought with them to the reservation.
    In order to stop all Indian expresses up & down the coast I have inclined the Indians at this point not to leave the encampment without a pass, also to report the presence of any strange Indians in the encampment.
    Should any be found who cannot give a good account of himself he will be taken as a spy and treated accordingly.
    Should anything of importance occur within this district or any information from the coast above reach me that should be of importance to you I will immediately inform.
A. F. Hedges Esq.
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Oregon City O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 366.



Sir
    I have the honor to transmit herewith the Annual Estimate of Funds required for the service of the Indian Department in Oregon Territory for the fiscal year ending June 30th 1858 [sic], amounting in aggregate to the sum of two hundred and twenty-four thousand and fifty ($224,050) dollars. No estimate is made for complying with treaties with Indians east of Cascades, Walla Walla, Cayuse & Umatillas and Wasco & Walla, Deschutes tribes, for the reason that many of them have been at enmity with us during the past year and it may be found best to enter into new treaties, and if the old treaties are ratified and remain in force the estimate made by Gen. Palmer for the year ending 30th June 1857 will be sufficient for our purposes. The treaty made by late Supt. with the Wasco & Deschute tribes on 25th June 1855 should be ratified, as it doubtless has been, and the ($20,000) twenty thousand dollars estimated for by Mr. Palmer on 26th February last for erection of buildings &c. upon the reservation under that treaty should immediately be remitted to this office that operations may be commenced early in the spring. I do not feel willing to recommend that any articles for the use of the Indians of this Territory be bought upon the Atlantic Coast. I am satisfied that there is no economy in purchasing there and that the Indians can be better satisfied by purchasing upon this coast, that the articles will be more likely to be of the quality desired and to be had at the time they are wanted. Large outlays will be necessary for cattle and farming implements for the Indians upon the reservations. The funds for the purchase of annuity goods should be at the disposal of the Superintendent by the month of July at the farthest in order that he may have time to purchase and convey to the reservations during dry weather and prepare the Indians for winter. I would call your attention to the fact that the estimate forwarded by Mr. Palmer 26th February last has never elicited a remittance of funds from your office, and that the estimate for the expenses of the present fiscal year ending June 30th 1857 forwarded by him on 5th March last has not received attention.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 265-272.



Sir
    Being now regularly qualified as an Indian agent of the United States in the Territory of Oregon you will proceed to the agency on Grand Ronde Indian Reservation and call upon Sub-Indian Agent W. W. Raymond for all moneys and other public property in his hands, who will be directed to turn over to you, upon your execution of a proper receipt therefor, all such property.
    You will then take charge of the interests of the Indian Department of the United States upon said reservation and faithfully and diligently carry out the instructions you may from time to time receive from and through this office.
    The business of the Grand Ronde Reservation is very considerable and will require your close attention and the exercise of your best judgment to avoid confusion in your business and accounts and consequent pecuniary loss to yourself and annoyance to this Department. You will bear in mind that every dollar of public funds and every article of public property that comes into your hands must be accounted for, proper duplicate receipts taken for all your disbursements and distributions, and no purchase made, expense incurred, or article of property disposed of, except for an authorized and proper object and for the benefit of the Indian Department.
    You will exert yourself to systematize the business of the reservation and will endeavor in all your expenditures to effect the objects desired with the least possible expense consistent with justice to the Indians and to the government.
    The connection of the government directly or indirectly with a boarding house, the use of government provisions in boarding employees, the feeding of government oats and other forage for the benefit of visitors to or employees upon the reservation, or the use of any government property for the benefit of any private individual is not authorized or allowable by this Department. The building of houses for Indians and other preparations for winter will require your immediate attention.
    I would suggest that the white men who are employed in immediate contact with the Indians in teaching them agriculture, the mechanical arts &c. when found suitable for such positions should be retained at their posts, and not be called away to perform other duties. You will, in all cases, encourage the Indians to labor, and give them the preference over white men in any work that they can do. It is hoped that your knowledge of the Indian character will enable you to deal successfully with those under your charge, that your kindness may win their confidence, and your firmness keep them under control, and that you may thus aid the cause of humanity and bring honor to yourself and to the government of which you are an agent.
    Your bond as presented being but in the sum of five thousand dollars, I feel it my duty to require that at some convenient future time you execute an additional bond in the further sum of five thousand dollars, a proper form for which will be furnished you from this office.
John F. Miller Esq.
    Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 241-242.



Sir
    The following named persons are employed upon the Grand Ronde Reservation by appointment from this office, to wit:

	A. G. Henry	resident physician
	B. Strang	tinner
	M. Shannon	farmer to Umpquas
	John Odum	carpenter for Umpquas
	Miss Mary C. Hull	school teacher for Willamette tribes

    In addition to these, the following employees are authorized by treaty stipulations and will be appointed upon your recommendation--
    These places are filled by men not appointed by this office, but as I desire that all should be appointed here you will recommend the appointment of such of them as you find worthy and remove those unworthy or whose employment is unnecessary.
    As long as we feed the Indians, it will be necessary to employ commissaries, who will be entirely subject to your appointment and control.
    I would impress it upon you that Indian labor is to be preferred in all cases where it can be made available, and the young Indians encouraged and allowed every opportunity to learn the mechanical arts.
    The appointees of this office will be paid at this office upon your certificate as to their services and are not in any case to be paid by you, except by special instruction from this office.
John F. Miller
    Indian Agent
        Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, pages 260-261.



Sir
    Your letters, of 9th October referring to appointment of agents Metcalfe and Miller, of 17th October referring to accounts of A. A. Skinner, and of 18th October acknowledging receipt of my bond and referring particularly to the monetary affairs of this Superintendency, enclosing regulation in regard to the drawing of drafts and directing me to desist from drawing drafts after its reception, have just been received, and I have but time to write a few lines by return mail upon the subject treated of in your last-named communication. I shall, of course, draw no more drafts, but I trust that, as full explanations have been given for the necessity for those that have been drawn prior to this date, the payment of none of them will be refused, although they do overrun the amount to which it had been hoped by your office that the expenditures of this Superintendency could be limited. I am dismayed at the prospect before me, but will endeavor to do for the best. It is impossible, as yet, to determine upon any particular course of action. I still hope, however, that the next mail may bring funds to enable me to comply with contracts made, and promises given, and to preserve peace among the Indians upon the reservation.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 233-235.




Col. A. F. Hedges
    Sir, I take the liberty to address you for which my motive must be my apology.
    By the treaty of Sept. 10th 1853 with the Rogue River tribe of Indians a land claim with its improvements was taken from me and given as part of the reservation made for those Indians at that time, and in the following spring a board of commissioners assessed my improvements on said claim, (viz rails &c.) at five hundred and ninety dollars, $590.00, and took them for the purpose of making a farm for the Indians. This money I have not yet received and have determined to see if I can get it, and as a preliminary step I make this application to you to know if you are prepared to meet the demand, as we are under the impression here that appropriations has been made to cover these demands.
P.S. The duplicate or scrip given me is marked No. 3, awards J. J. Cooke $590.00. Dated February 10th 1855 at Jacksonville O.T. and signed by the commissioners L. F. Grover, A. C. Gibbs & George H. Ambrose.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 378.



    INDIAN NEWS.--The Siskiyou Chronicle is in possession of a letter, of recent date, from Salem, Oregon, giving important information relative to the movements of Indians of Southern Oregon. The letter states that upwards of one hundred and eighty Indians have been turned loose from the Grand Ronde Reservation, by the Superintendent of Indian Affairs in that Territory, on the plea that they are California Indians, and have left for Klamath Lake country, taking with them rifles and ammunition. The Indians on the reservation are said to be very much dissatisfied, and it is expected that the whole--amounting to some 4000 or 5000--will leave as soon as spring opens.
Sonoma County Journal, Petaluma, December 5, 1856, page 3



Hon. G. W. Manypenny
    Commissioner of Indian Affairs
        Sir:
            I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, by last mail, of your letter of instructions dated November 4th, in which you desire me to investigate the condition of Indian affairs in the Territories of Oregon and Washington.
    Upon due consideration of the important duties assigned to me, I do not see how it would be practicable for me to make even a partial investigation and report the result, either in whole or in part, within the limited period stated in your letter. Having already traveled through the Territories of Oregon & Washington, and recently returned from a visit to the former, I am prepared to say that from November to March the roads are almost wholly impassable, and during the worst part of the rainy season the travel from one point to another is frequently suspended for weeks at a time. With the exception of the direct water route to Astoria, Portland and Oregon City, the means of transportation are precarious and uncertain at any season, but especially during the winter. The country inhabited by the Yreka, Rogue River, Umpqua, Calapooia and other Indian tribes of Southern Oregon is composed almost wholly of dense forests and rugged mountains, and the reservation at Yamhill, where most of the Oregon Indians are now assembled, is extremely difficult of access during the rainy season. You will readily perceive therefore, leaving Washington Territory out of the question, that to visit the various places of Indian resort in Oregon to inspect the condition of the reservations, to obtain reliable information as to expenses, to confer with the agents and compare their statements with the practical results derived from personal observation, to examine into the difficulties which have operated so disastrously towards the Indians during the past three years and give an outline of their history, to arrange in a proper manner all the data thus obtained and suggest some permanent and reliable plan of ameliorating their condition for the future, with accompanying estimates of expense, is a most important undertaking, comprising a series of duties which would require constant travel and diligent application for several months. In Washington Territory the difficulties referred to are very much increased, the population being sparse and the means of communication from point to point proportionally more uncertain
    I feel confident that the Delegates from those Territories, who are now in Washington, will bear me out in the assertion that within a few weeks to make the investigations which you suggest, in a manner that would be at all beneficial either to the Indians or to the government, and to submit a report which could be relied upon, would be utterly impracticable. To perform the duty superficially would be not only repugnant to the spirit and meaning of your instructions, but irreconcilable with the importance of the obligations assumed.
    With some knowledge of Indian character and of the Indian tribes on this coast, derived from personal inspection of the reservations in California and of the principal Indian resorts in the Territories, I do not hesitate to say that under your instructions much may be done to ameliorate their condition. It is a fact greatly to be regretted that they have never yet received the full benefit of the appropriations made by Congress for their relief. To some extent this has been owing to the rapacity of contractors, the subserviency of agents to local influences, and the general disposition manifested by white settlers to frustrate the benevolent intentions of the government.
    I have recently visited the Tejon Reservation, and witnessed the condition of the various Indian tribes from Los Angeles to Stockton, via the San Joaquin Valley. I have also during the past year had considerable intercourse with the Indians throughout the northern parts of California. If you will permit me to suggest a plan of operations, I feel confident I can make a report, under your instructions, that will be of some actual value as a source of information. The condition of the southern tribes in California is truly deplorable. At Los Angeles, the so-called civilized Indians are infinitely more degraded and in a much worse condition than the wild tribes of the Sierra Nevada. At the Tejon, no improvement has taken place within the past two years. At the Tulare River, the Indians are scattered and oppressed. At Kings River (Campbell's) they are mostly driven away into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The misconduct of a few white men there has reduced more than a thousand peaceable Indians to a state of starvation. At the Fresno [sic], no crops have been raised for the past two years, in consequence of the continued dry weather. All the Indians in this line are suffering. At Nome Lackee and Mendocino, the Indians are doing well, and the reservations are in a prosperous condition. Differences of soil and climate have in the main contributed to produce these results.
    What I propose to do is this: To proceed to the Territories of Oregon & Washington, as soon as it is practicable to travel therein, and carry your instructions faithfully and thoroughly into effect. In the meantime, I shall prepare and transmit to you within the limited period prescribed a complete report in reference to the Indians and Indian reservations of California. As this is without authority, and as the information has been obtained in the execution of other duties for which I have already received compensation, it will of course be without charge.
    In conclusion, permit me to add that although I have received a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury directing me to enter at once upon the discharge of the duties prescribed in your letter, it must have escaped his attention that to do this would involve a neglect of very important interests connected with that department. There are now several suits pending in the U.S. circuit court in which I am summoned as a witness on the part of the government. In the January term the case of the U.S. vs. R. P. Hammond comes up, and without my assistance the district attorney would find some difficulty in explaining the accounts.
    For these and the reasons above stated, I trust you will grant me the time required.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 23-28.



Dear Sir
    I have just received a letter from those engaged in building and plowing in the Siletz Valley informing me that Agent Metcalfe had required the construction of the blacksmith shop and the burning coal [charcoal] contracted for by us to be done at the lower prairie in Siletz Valley.
    We have already put up one building designed for a shop in the prairie near the blockhouse and have twenty-five cords of wood cut for use in burning coal. The building erected is now being used by our men for a boarding house, and steps have been taken to put up another building for a shop at a more eligible site on account of water during the dry seasons, but if we are required to put up this building in the lower prairie and burn and house the coal there it cannot be done at the price agreed upon, for the absence of suitable material on that prairie was well known to us when we put in the bid, and the selection of a location was left at our discretion. The distance to transport tools as well as from our other work will increase the expense. We are willing to do the work at the point indicated, but shall expect a fair remuneration for any additional expense above what the cost might be at the point originally selected.
    Nothing is said in the letter as to the dwelling house. I would be glad to know the point at which this house is to be built before any additional expense is incurred in preparing materials.
    We shall of course expect the same rule applied in the construction of this building as with the shop and coal in regard to an increase of expenditure on account of location.
    I should be pleased to know your views in relation to the points raised, and whether you expect us to do the work at the points now indicated by the agent or any other changes he may choose to make, [and] if so, whether the additional cost will be allowed and paid by you.
    Please advise me at your earliest convenience.
A. F. Hedges Esq.
    Supr. Ind. Affairs
        Oregon City
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 357.



Sir
    Impelled by ill health and a consequent inability to give proper attention to the duties of the position, I respectfully beg leave to resign the office of Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Territory of Oregon, and earnestly desire that my successor may be appointed immediately and myself relieved of the office at the earliest possible date.
To the President of the United States
    Washington City, D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 291-292.



   
Hon. George W. Manypenny
    Commissioner of Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
            Sir
                I herewith send for your examination & attention the claim of James P. Day, who, you will perceive by accompanying papers, was appointed and did act as local Indian agent, did collect and subsist 71 Indians, and have them, by J. M. Kay or other employees, conducted to the Grand Ronde Reservation.
    [That] Mr. Day was unwell at the time the Indians left his place is the reason of his not conducting them in person. He came, however, at as early an hour as he could & presented the account of collecting & subsisting these Indians, which account the Superintendent refused to honor.
    The accompanying accounts & letters of authority of late Superintendent Palmer shows what was done by him.
    And the object of this to you is to ask your attention and decision in the matter, with a desire you will allow it to claim your earliest convenient attention.
    I have sent to you the accounts of Messrs. Day, Boyle & Bowman as they were made out & presented to Superintendent Hedges. Should you have the goodness to advise or instruct in the matter, I hope you will return these accounts, if proper so to do, at as early an hour as convenient.
    I have no desire, as agent for Mr. Day, to say anything in regard to the official conduct of Supt. Hedges, if justice can be obtained without it.
    I have been for some time engaged in the Indian Department, and am very well acquainted with [the] kind of service performed by Mr. Day. And believe he should be paid without a word. The copy of the letter of Supt. Hedges to Sub-Agt. Raymond pleads for itself. I remit that & this other for your attention, without commenting at this time upon either.
   
The United States
1856                                                                     To James P. Day                Dr.

	For
Novr. 20.		Services 70 days as local agent, collecting, guarding & conducting 71 Cow Creek, Rogue River & Lookingglass Prairie Indians from South Umpqua River to Grand Ronde Indian Reserve, commencing on 28th day of July & ending on the 8th day of October 1856 at $6 per day	420
		[illegible] & use of horse 64 days in same service at 2 50/100 dollars per day	160
		Amt. paid A. McElwain as per certificate	51
			$631

    Received at Oregon City O.T. 20th Novr. 1856 of A. F. Hedges, Superintendent Indian Affairs, six hundred and thirty-one dollars in full of this account ($631).
    I certify, on honor, that the above account is correct and just, and that I have actually this 20th day of November 1856 paid the amount thereof.
   
    Received of Jas. P. Day fifty-one dollars in full for my services assisting him laboring for the Indians. $51.
   
Sir
    Being informed of the arrival at the Grand Ronde Reservation of seventy-one Indians from South Umpqua conducted by Mr. J. McKay and others, you are hereby authorized to pay the just claim against the United States of the said men for actual & necessary service tendered, and expenses incurred in the discharge of said duty. Mr. McKay was not the person authorized to conduct those Indians to the reservation, but as he is believed to have performed the services in good faith and intention, it is my wish to pay the just claims against the United States arising out of his action.
    You will however pay no claims for collecting, subsisting or in any way providing for those Indians prior to the date of their starting for the reservation in charge of Mr. McKay.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Ind. Agt.
        Grand Ronde Reservation
   
    The enclosed accounts are in the state they were left with me for payment by Supt. Hedges. As he did not pay them, and as I am authorized to transmit to the home department, I enclose them as if paid &c. &c. Should the Hon. Commissioner see proper not to honor them, I hope they may be returned to me with his remarks & instructions.
Hon.
    G. W. Manypenny
        Washington City
            D.C.
   
The United States
1856                                                                      To Elliot N. Bowman             Dr.

26 June		For going after, from South Umpqua River to Hardy Elliff's through the Kenyon and receiving six Indians and conducting them to Umpqua River	$  24.00
28th June		2 shirts @ 1.50 ea.                )	3.00
28th June		1 pr. cloth pants 4.00            )    supplied Indians in my charge	4.00
28th June		1 pr. cloth pants 2.00            )	2.00
		For guarding, protecting & feeding the six Indians 28th June to the 28 July 1856, 1 month	150.00
			$183.00

    I certify that the above services were performed & the expenses incurred by Elliott N. Bowman as stated in the foregoing account.
Dayton O.T.
    Novr. 22nd 1856
   
    Received at Oregon City O.T. Dec. 1st 1856 of A. F. Hedges Superintendent Indian Affairs one hundred & eighty-three dollars in full of this account. $183.00
   
The United States
1856                                                                     To James P. Day                Dr.

	For
Septr. 22		2712# beef @ 10           )  supplied Indians	271.20
		2712# flour @ 5            )   under my charge	135.60
		70 doz. sheaves oats      )   as local agent	105.00
			$511.80

    Received at Oregon City O.T. 1st December 1856 of A. F. Hedges, Superintendent [of] Indian Affairs, five hundred and eleven 80/100 dollars in full of this account. $511.80.
    I certify, on honor, that the above account is correct & just, and that I have actually this 1st day of December 1856 paid the amount thereof.
   
    We the undersigned certify that we were present and saw the rations delivered to the Indians as set forth in the foregoing provision returns.
    I certify that the foregoing census list & provision returns are correct & true as set forth therein, and that the provisions were actually delivered to the Indians as stated.
   
The United States
1856                                                                        To Isaac Boyle                Dr.

	For
		Services rendered Indian Department under instructions of James P. Day, local Indian agent, 41 days commencing 10th day August & ending 20th September 1856 at $5 per day, going to & fro in the mountains of Rogue River and Umpqua River, collecting Indians and conducting them to Local Ind. Agent Day on South Umpqua River	$215.00
		Amt. cash paid to defray expenses during this time, in which 'twas not possible to procure the necessary vouchers	75.00
			$280.00

    Received at Oregon City O.T. Decr. 1st 1856 of A. F. Hedges, Superintendent Indian Affairs two hundred & eighty dollars in full of this account. ($280.)
   
    I certify that Isaac Boyle was duly authorized and appointed by me, by virtue of the instructions furnished me by the Superintendent of Indian Affairs of Oregon Territory, to collect from the Rogue River and Umpqua mountains the scattered bands of Indians in those localities & deliver the same to me at my residence on the South Umpqua River that he actually performed forty-one days work in such service at the rates of $5.00 per day.
Dayton 24th Novr. 1856
   
Sir
    I have to inform you that I feel it my duty to decline paying any more funds to you, until I receive your accounts for the quarter ending Sept. 30th 1856.
W. W. Raymond
    Sub-Ind. Agt.
        Grand Ronde Reservation
   
Sir:
    Your letter of the 27th ult. in relation to an Indian family in your neighborhood, who are desirous of going up on the reservation, is received.
    It is not deemed advisable to have the few Indians that remain, in scattered families, brought singly upon the reservation, owing to the expense attending their removal in that manner. It is presumed that, when the weather becomes settled and favorable, they can be collected together and brought to the reservation in a body.
    In regard to the family you speak of, I desire you will take care of them for the present and give them provisions on account of this Department. The allowance will not exceed one pound of flour and one pound of beef (or in lieu ¾ of a pound of pork) per day for each adult.
    This you will continue to do until further advised from this office.
Jas. P. Day, Esq.
    Canyonville, O.T.
   
Sir:
    Believing you willing and desirous of aiding in removing the Indians from Umpqua Valley, I address to you this communication and request that you will assist us in that service. Letters from sundry persons have been received at this office informing me that several Indian families are still in the Umpqua Valley, and from Genl. Lamerick I learn that quite a band are along the base of the mountain between the north and south forks of the Umpqua, and that they have recently committed acts of robbery and have burned a house.
    I contemplate sending Louis (or Lew-ey), formerly of your valley--an Indian, with whom I presumed you are acquainted--and who, I believe, is familiar with all the locations where Indians would be likely to collect--to assist in hunting them out, and I have to request that you will act as local agent in collecting and removing all the Indians in the Umpqua Valley to the Grand Ronde Reservation in this valley.
    Captain Smith, of the United States army, will shortly be coming with his command from Fort Lane to the Grand Ronde, and I wish you to collect all the Indians in the Umpqua Valley and concentrate them at some point where they may join him and come on with them to the reservation.
    It may be necessary to employ a few teams to transport the aged, the infirm and the children, together with such of their effects as are of sufficient value to warrant it, but the healthy and athletic will not be furnished transportation.
    I will send you, by Louis, or some other messenger, funds to defray the expense of subsisting the Indians, after collected and on their way to the reservation, but it is expected you will use all economy and incur no expense not absolutely demanded--the object is to gather up every Indian in that country.
    Certain individual settlers have their favorites amongst the Indians whom they desire to live among them to do service, or for some other object, but none are to be left, old or young. It matters not how long they may have lived with them, or from whence they came. The entire Indian population is to be removed, and at present there can be no exceptions unless, indeed, some woman has been legally married to a white man. In that case, we do not seek to control her or her offspring.
    Please inform me, by letter, if you can act in this matter and give me such information as to the whereabouts, condition &c. of these Indians as you possess.
To
    Jas. P. Day
        Cañonville
            O.T.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 1312-1336.  Census of bands of Bob (Cow Creek), Louis (Rogue River), Marble (Lookingglass Prairie) and Peter (a messenger) not transcribed.  A copy of the April 19 letter can be found on NARA Series M234 Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs 1824-81, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency, 1875.




Sir
    Herewith I have the honor to forward my estimate of the funds needed at this Superintendency to meet the expenses of the first quarter 1857, amounting to one hundred and nine thousand six hundred and sixty-seven and 50/100 ($109.667.50) dollars. Although this is an enormous amount, it is not an overestimate, I believe, in any one particular. The items for the Grand Ronde Reservation are legitimate expenditures under treaty stipulations, and every cent estimated for will be needed.
    The items estimated for the coast tribes are indispensable if the faith of those Indians in the government is desired and peace with them expected. I am not informed of the ratification of the treaty with them but would most earnestly impress upon you my firm conviction that war with those Indians is inevitable unless the terms of that treaty are complied with by the government.
    Two physicians and stewards are found indispensable upon the Coast Reservation, one at Salmon River and one at Siletz & Yaquina. I know not whether the treaty with the Wasco & Deschute tribes of 25th June 1855 has been confirmed, but have estimated under it. I hope it has been ratified, but if it has not a remittance of the amounts estimated for physician, beef and clothing will be necessary to preserve the peace and good will of the Indians named, the most of whom have remained friendly during the late war, having faith in the promises of Supt. Palmer and Agent Thompson. It will not now do to violate those promises. In estimating for subsistence of Indians I have put beef at ten cents per pound, although contracts have been made at less figures and forwarded to your office, but I fear that as I have not funds to comply with the payments provided for in those contracts the contractors will throw them up, and I shall consequently have to get beef at whatever price I can. Notwithstanding the remark in your letter of 18th October that "the policy of subsisting Indians in large numbers is to be regarded as temporary expedient only," I would respectfully represent that the Indians upon the Grand Ronde Reservation, Coast Reservation, at mouth of Umpqua River and at the Dalles of the Columbia, comprising all those estimated for in the accompanying estimate, must be fed until after next harvest, say 1st August, or must be fought. There is no alternative. Nothing but a firm conviction of the true state of the matter could induce me to make this statement. I feel it to be so, and I do not want to see these Indians turned loose again to butcher and be butchered as in our late war without entering my earnest protest against it. The amount estimated for in my hurried estimate of 10th October last for the purchase of flour and beef was and is absolutely necessary for the purpose named, and the amounts named in the accompanying estimate to this communication are also and additionally necessary for like purpose. The necessities of the Indians demand that the whole of the unexpended balances of funds remaining in your hands applicable to the purchase of annuity goods for the year ending 30th June 1857 for the several tribes in this Superintendency should immediately be placed at my disposal.
    A part of the Rogue River tribe, of the Cow Creek band of Umpquas, and of the Shasta, Scotons & Umpquas, were engaged in the late war, but their annuities are so small, their necessities so urgent, and the part taken by them in the war so difficult to determine, that I cannot recommend that any part of their annuities for this year be withheld. I have directed agents Miller & Metcalfe and Sub-Agent Drew to inform me as definitely as possible what part was taken in the late war by the [agents] in charge of each.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 201-206.  Itemized estimate not transcribed.



Hon. George W. Manypenny
    Commissioner Ind. Affairs
        Washington City
            Sir
                In my letter to you enclosing the accounts & papers of James P. Day & others, I believe I neglected to state that Superintendent Hedges gives as one of his reasons for not paying these accounts that he thinks it the duty of ex-Superintendent Palmer. By the provision returns of Mr. Day you will see that up to the 20th August last he had only 13 Indians collected, and as Genl. Palmer went out of office on the 18th of August, [he] consequently could in no way [be] beholden for the work done subsequent to that date, but I think the idea of Capt. Hedges is incorrect & such a reason does not in any way strengthen his position. If the work was absolutely done by Mr. Day, under direction of the proper authority, this is sufficient to entitle him to pay, and it cannot possibly make any material difference by whom he is paid, either Capt. Hedges or Genl. Palmer, with whichsoever the public funds are in the hands of for that purpose.
    Or if the whole duty was that of Genl. Palmer, how does it come that Capt. Hedges pays some of the employees of Day--as leaving him (Day) & others unpaid, or why does he particularly guard Sub-Agt. Raymond against, paying for, collecting, guarding & provisioning these Indians prior to their leaving South Umpqua (see his letter to Raymond).
    I repeat my desire you allow this to claim your earliest attention & have the goodness to address me at this office.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 1338-1340.




Sir
    I have to inform you that I have received from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs the following documents, viz:
    "Remarks in the Office of Indian Affairs on the account of Alonzo A. Skinner, late Indian agent in Oregon, commencing on the 23rd December 1851 and ending on the 16th October 1852, for 1882.58.
    "Remarks made in the Office Indian Affairs on the accounts of Alonzo A. Skinner, late Indian agent in Oregon, from Nov. 30th 1852 to May 1st 1853."
    The amount "disallowed" in said accounts is twelve hundred and thirty-six and 50/100 dollars.
    The amount "suspended" six hundred and sixty-one and 3/100 dollars.
    The said document is herewith enclosed to you and your immediate attention requested.
    The account of N. C. Dean for $77.50, and of John E. Ross for $35, are said to be "not in such shape as warrant any action upon them in connection with Agent Skinner's accounts, as on the face of them the amounts appear to have been received from late Supt. Dart." They are also herewith returned.
A. A. Skinner Esq.
    late Indian Agent
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 280.






Dr. Sir,
    On my arrival at the mouth of the Siletz, I found the schooner lying on the beach; her cargo had been taken above tidewater & stacked where they supposed it would be safe and covered with the sails. I put four men to work immediately to erect a log cabin for the cargo, but before they were ready to remove the flour there came a heavy blow from the west and destroyed the entire cargo with the exception of about one thousand pounds of flour. There has not been (from appearances) such a surf for twenty years. Old Indian graves with their canoes which have stood until they were quite rotten were swept off by the surf, and many of the Indian houses which were near the beach were swept away carrying whole families with them and destroying all of their clothing and supplies which they had put up for winter, but they fortunately made their escape without loss of life, though many were severely bruised and some with legs & arms broken. The schooner was blown over the bar into the bay, carrying away her masts. All of her canvas was lost with the flour, and nothing but the body of the vessel remains. How much is injured I am not prepared to say; the small boats together with my wagon were broken into splinters.
    I regard it impracticable to get flour to this station this winter and await your order for the removal of these Indians. The condition of the road is such as will render it impossible to move those who have large families to the Grand Ronde, and if you can send a schooner to the Yaquina I will move a portion of them to the Siletz Agency where they can be supplied from the Yaquina. I am sorry Capt. Tichenor did not land there. I find upon examination that supplies can be delivered at fifty percent less by the way of the Yaquina, then through the Siletz. The distance up the Siletz is about forty miles and fifteen miles of that rapids where it is difficult to get over with empty canoes. The other is a land transportation not to exceed eight miles good road from where vessels can discharge their cargoes. There are three prairies below any you saw on the Siletz, two of them as large as those above, and will afford homes for a large number of Indians.
    I found it impossible to get through to the Siletz with those Indians and left them in Kings Valley under protection of Capt. Augur. Enclosed please find an estimate for funds for the first qr. 1857 and you will observe that it is mostly for permanent improvement and will not occur in any succeeding qr. I therefore hope that amount will be furnished me. I am perfectly willing that you may fix the limit to the improvement made in my agency, but I think you will readily see the impropriety of curtailing the farming operations, as these Indians will have to be fed another year at an enormous expense to the government unless we raise supplies for them.
    You will also please find a list showing the tribes who were engaged in the late war and those who remained at peace. I would mention in relation to those who did not join in the war that they are the most hostile and treacherous bands on the reservation, and the only reason they did not break out was the want of a proper opportunity.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 375.



Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sir
        The tenor of my letters to you have been generally of an advising nature inasmuch [as] I fear you may think I am presumptuous, but I have been conscientious in my remarks and I would again say to you that [it] is beyond possibility for me to represent you here unaided, having neither a hospital nor medicine in sufficient quantity and variety. My report of sick and wounded will show you that my lot has been a hard one, having to travel on foot daily about eight miles to visit all who need attention. I would suggest the propriety of abandoning this place for the present at least and occupying the Siletz, Grand Ronde and Alsea as those points are acceptable at all times and this is not, only about 3 months in the year, and being so adjacent to the seashore as to render it most disagreeable to the well as being also injurious to the sick.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 369.



Sir
    I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 4th November informing me of the appointment of J. Ross Browne of San Francisco a special agent to visit Oregon and Washington Territories to collect information &c. He has not yet arrived. I am much pleased that this course has been adopted to satisfy the Department of the true state of Indian affairs here, and shall gladly afford Mr. Browne every aid in my power to enable him to thoroughly inform himself in all matters pertaining to Indian affairs in Oregon.
    I hope that after ascertaining, from personal observation, the unpleasant situation of the officers of the Indian Department in Oregon and of the whole people of Oregon, Mr. Browne may be able to enlist your sympathy in our favor and to satisfy you that we are earnest and honest in our endeavors and should be sustained.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 225-226.



Sir
    I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 3rd November and have notified the proper officers of the Treasury Dept. of the safe arrival of the six drafts amounting to $17,437.50 therein referred to. I had by the previous mail received a copy of the circular in reference to the drawing of drafts and have therefore ceased to draw since the 22nd November. I have by every mail so earnestly urged upon your attention the absolute necessity for feeding the Indians who are located upon the different reservations until after next harvest, and the necessity for opening and fencing farms and putting in large crops upon the Coast Reservation and upon the Warm Springs Reservation east of [the] Cascade Mountains for the future support of the Indians, and the fact that immediate appropriations should be made for the purpose; that the treaties with the Molallas bearing date 21st December 1855, with the Wascos & Deschutes bearing date 25th June 1855, and with the Coast tribes bearing date 11th August 1855, should be ratified and the funds to carry them out remitted immediately; have on the 11th October forwarded an estimate of the funds needed in the present quarter, and on the 8th of this month forwarded estimate of funds needed in the first quarter 1857, which estimates although covering an enormous amount of money I then stated to be no more than was required to preserve peace with the Indians and fulfill the promises made by late Supt. Palmer in inducing the Indians to locate upon reservations, a course of policy which I had reason to believe was approved of by you; having done all this I can only await your action, which I do with great anxiety but with hope that all will be right.
    The estimate of appropriations for the service during the fiscal year ending June 30th 1858, called for in your letter of 3rd November, was forwarded by me on the 22nd November.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 234-236.



Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Sir I find Mr. Robert Hill on the Cosper farm as farmer for the Willamette tribes. He is a good and worthy man and says that he has been appointed by you. In you instructions I don't find any provisions for him, although there ought to be a good man permanently located there.
    I also find Mr. Robt. Ostrander here as teacher for the Rogue River tribes. I would recommend him for that place as a good and worthy man.
    I also find Mr. Charles Brunn here as boss carpenter or agency carpenter, but I find no provisions for him in your instructions, although it is quite necessary that there should be such a man here, as I don't think it is right to take carpenters from the Indian tribes to do work on the agency houses. Mr. Brunn is a good man and worthy of the situation.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 373.



Dear sir
    The Superintendent directs me to inform you that he has not one dollar of funds on hand applicable to the payment of employees upon the Grand Ronde Reservation. He will endeavor, however, to pay for services rendered between July 1st and November 25th by advancing the means himself. He expects no remittance of funds from Washington until the first mail in January, and it may not come then, and until it does come no money can be paid said employees beyond that mentioned above. I wish them informed of the fact. When employed by the Supt. or if employed by you at a reasonable compensation and for a proper purpose, they can be sure of their pay; the only trouble is as to the time when they can be paid.
John F. Miller Esq.
    Indian Agent
        Grand Ronde Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 284.


Dear sir
    The Superintendent directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 12th inst. detailing loss of schooner Calumet and cargo, and to say to you that being the agent in charge of that reservation you are not expected to await orders from this office when the Indians under your charge are suffering, but to take any steps for their removal to a location where you can better care for them that you may deem proper. The papers detailing the part taken by your Indians in the late war was not enclosed in your letter.
    I forwarded to Washington by last mail an estimate of funds needed upon your reservation which covers the amounts named in your estimate for first quarter 1856.
    No funds can be expected before next month applicable to the payment of employees or other expenses upon your reservation, and it may be that Congress will refuse to ratify the treaty with those tribes--if so, we shall be in a pretty fix.
R. B. Metcalfe Esq.
    Indian Agent
        Coast Reservation
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 6; Letter Books E:10, page 284.



Sir
    I have to inform you that I have forwarded to the President through our Delegate, Hon. Joseph Lane, my resignation of the office of Supt. Ind. Affairs for Oregon Territory, to take effect as soon as I can possibly be relieved. My inability to give proper attention to the duties of the office on account of ill health has caused me to do so.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 211-212.



Sir,
    In [my] letter of 20th November I referred to the fact that contractor B. Jennings' schooner Calumet would leave Portland in a few days for the month of Siletz River on [the] Coast Reservation. She did leave on that day with some thirty tons of flour, a wagon and other articles, the precise description of which I am as yet uninformed of, the flour being on B. Jennings' contract of 10th September, and the wagon and other articles ordered by Agent Metcalfe for use upon his agency.
    On the 17th inst. by special express from Agent Metcalfe I was informed that the schooner was wrecked at the mouth of the Siletz about the 8th inst. and the most of her cargo lost after it had been landed and received by the agent, as will be seen by the extracts from Mr. Metcalfe's letter, which I send herewith. [See extracts of Dec. 12, above.]
    The attempt to land the cargo at the mouth of the Siletz was made at the urgent request of Mr. Metcalfe and myself, we believing that a safe landing could be effected and feeling it to be very desirable to have the supplies there as being the most available point from which to transport to the Salmon or Neachesna River station and also to the prairie country lying upon the Siletz River, where it is proposed to locate the most of the Indians.
    But as the entrance of the Siletz is found impracticable we shall be obliged to make Yaquina Bay the point of delivery and shall consequently have to abandon the Salmon River station, as it is impossible to transport supplies to it either from Yaquina or from Grand Ronde Reservation in winter.
    The man who brought the express from Metcalfe came on foot to the Grand Ronde Reservation, finding it impossible to travel in any other way.
    Contractor B. Jennings has lost his schooner, for which he paid five thousand dollars, in endeavor to comply satisfactorily with his contract, which will cause him to lose considerable money by his contract.
    I regret that I induced him to try the Siletz, and I regret also that I have no funds to enable me to pay for the flour which he has delivered and is entitled to pay for under the contract. The confidence of those Indians in our good intentions is much strengthened and confirmed by the strong effort they see us making to provide for their wants.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 213-216.



Sir
    By the last mail but one I received your communication enclosing one from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs dated Oct. 4, 1856, with reference to my accounts for incidental expenses as Indian agent in Oregon.
    I herewith enclose to you a statement of facts and explanations of my accounts which you will please have the kindness to forward to the Department at Washington.
    The communication above referred to shows that the amount of $1236.50 is disallowed, and the amount of $661.03 is suspended, having items in my a/c amounting to some $400 not noticed. Am I to understand that the latter amount is allowed me? If so please inform me whether you are authorized to pay that sum together with the amount of items allowed by the communication referred to. Or am I compelled to wait for what they acknowledge to be justly due me until their final action on the whole account.
    With reference to the account of N. C. Dean of $77.50 and of John E. Ross of $35, in June last I made a statement of the facts to Supt. Palmer, which I presume he forwarded to the Department, showing that the reason why these accounts were receipted to Supt. Dart and not to myself was that Dr. Dart had theretofore paid other accounts growing out of the same transaction and that it was expected he would pay these accounts--that they were not paid by him, and that they have not been actually paid by me, but that I have assumed the amount and am liable to Dean & Ross.
    If you can inform me whether these accounts can be put in any shape so as to receive the favorable action of the Department you will confer a very great favor by informing me at your earliest convenience.
A. F. Hedges Esquire
    Supt. Ind. Affairs
        for Oregon
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 364.



Estimate of funds for the first qr. 1857 (viz)

For	Agency building & office	$500.00
"	Hospital and other buildings for physician and attendants	800.00
"	Warehouse for public property	650.00
"	Houses for employees	600.00
"	Making rails and fencing two hundred and fifty acres of land     in three separate tracts	1200.00
"	800 bushels seed potatoes @ $2.50	2000.00
"	Corn, oats, peas, beans &c.	800.00
"	Breaking two hundred & fifty acres of land	1500.00
"	Hauling & packing supplies	1000.00
"	Contingencies	500.00

NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 375.



Sir,
    I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of 18th November acknowledging receipt of money accounts for 3rd quarter 1856 and of 19th November acknowledging receipt of mine of 9th October and informing me that drafts drawn by me after the said 9th October cannot be paid. I regret exceedingly that it is found necessary to protest any of my drafts. I have not in any degree exceeded my authority, have acted in entire good faith; those who have cashed my drafts have also acted in good faith, and I am exceedingly pained that they should be subjected to loss, myself to reproach, and the Department to discredit. I hope, however, that as by the same mail which carried my letter of 9th October, referred to above, I sent an estimate of the funds needed for this Superintendency during the fourth quarter 1856, it will be found necessary to refuse payment of but very few if any of my drafts.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Comr. Ind. Affairs
        Washington City D.C.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 610 Oregon Superintendency 1857, frames 222-224.



Capt. Hedges
    Dr. Sir
        In looking over my papers I find I have neglected to send the census list giving the Indians engaged in the war & those remaining at peace. The list was mislaid in putting up the letters, also the receipt for flour delivered at Yaquina Bay.
    You ask if I were not instructed by Gen. Palmer to render account of disbursements for benefit of Indians upon Grand Ronde Reservation under treaty stipulations, where it was practicable to do so. My impression is I received no such instruction, and was not advised under what head of accounts the disbursements were to be made, though I asked the question repeatedly. I have also made an issue at Yaquina Bay by order of Joel Palmer. When I asked him under what head the issue should be made he told me to leave the caption blank, which I have done. I have never received from Gen. Palmer's office a bill of prices; though I have on hand about fifteen hundred dollars worth of goods I do not know the cost of a single article.
    In regard to the issue of provisions to stationed employees, it has been a matter of doubt with me. I was instructed by Gen. Palmer to issue to them and account for it under the head of provisions issued to employees. You will please forward instructions by which I will be governed in future and under what class of accounts the goods issued at Yaquina are to be accounted for. I was under the impression they were presents under the appropriation for preventing outbreaks, suppressing hostilities and supplying Indians on the reserve. You will also please send me a copy of the different contracts let for my agency with the amount of their bonds, and what arrangement you made with Palmer aside from the written agreement. I see he has some gov. oxen; did he retain them. Your blacksmith wanted me to pay his board at Palmer's, allow his salary to go on and let him have all he could make working for Palmer, which I thought most unreasonable, but he said that was the agreement made with you. If you make any verbal agreement with any of your employees please inform me and I will know how to act. I had nothing for him to do before Feb. / 57 and advised him to go home until I was ready for him. I have neither coal nor iron and will not be able to get it before Feb.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 14; Letters Received, 1856, No. 387.



Dear Sir
    Enclose bill ref. to Comte. on Territories for paying Rogue River Indians. Any information or opinions in your possession for or against the passage of said bill will you please communicate at your earliest convenience.
Hon. Geo. W. Manypenny
    Com. of Indian Affrs.
NARA Series M234, Letters Received by the Office of Indian Affairs, Reel 609 Oregon Superintendency 1856, frames 126-127.



Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Dr. Sir
        In forwarding my estimates for the first qr. 1857, I said nothing about arrears for the 3rd & 4th qrs. 1856. If you will let me have the amount when it is convenient to do so, I will in future bring my expenses within the limits of my estimates, and if there is at any time anything estimated for which in your judgment can be dispensed with, notify me of that fact mentioning what item or items I shall dispense with, and I will still bring my expenses within the limits, or if there should in your judgment be anything overestimated notify me and I will try to reduce them or inform you that the services cannot be performed for less and you can then instruct me what to do. I will settle all of my accounts up to the 31st December 1856 and forward you the amount necessary to make the payments, which I most earnestly hope you will be able to let me have sometime during the next qr. I fear the giving discretionary powers to Gen. Palmer and withholding them from you has laid the foundation for a building which we will never be able to complete.
    There is great complaint and much dissatisfaction among the the Indians in consequence of promises made them by Gen. Palmer and not complied with. There are many of them in a destitute condition. Their wardrobe consists of nothing more than they brought into the world with them, and exposed to this inclement season [it] is enough to drive men with less forbearance than Indians generally possess to desperation, and if the government does not do something for these people there is nothing more certain than we will have them to fight next spring. The past will enable the government to determine whether it is less expensive to fight them than to clothe and feed them until such time as we can instruct them to raise their own supplies. Many of them are industrious and express a desire to have farms where they can raise their own supplies. Please inform me if I will be allowed a clerk. It is impossible for me to bring my accounts forward at the proper time and attend to other business without assistance. When I am once settled and my business confined to one agency I can then do all the writing.
To
    Capt. A. F. Hedges
        Supt. Ind. Affrs.
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 15; Letters Received, 1857, No. 9.



    The Indians on the Grand Ronde Reserve are indulging in their natural propensity for bloodshed by occasionally pitching into and slaying one another. Hardly a week passes that there is not a regular row kicked up by the "poor Indians."
"Later from Oregon," Sacramento Daily Union, December 30, 1856, page 3







Sir
    Your communication of Nov. 26th reached this office last evening. The envelope bears the impress of three (3) different postmarks. Its non-arrival an earlier date may thus be accounted for.
    My estimates will be forwarded by next mail. Owing to the limited time between the arrival & departure of the mail at this office I am unable to forward them earlier.
    No Indians within this district were engaged in the late Indian war. None have been openly hostile to the whites since my appointment as sub-Ind. agt.
    All the chiefs & leading men of the tribe agree in saying that they are ready & willing to perform their part of the treaty stipulations made between them & Gen. Palmer on the part of the United States August 1855, when the Department shall comply with their terms. They understand the terms of said treaty--perfectly.
    By the next mail my estimates & quarterly returns will be forwarded, also a longer communication. Time bids me close.
Capt. A. F. Hedges
    Supt. Ind. Affrs.
        Oregon City
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 15; Letters Received, 1857, No. 17.




Dear Sir
    Yours of 29th inst. just been received by expressman bearing funds for which please find duplicate receipts enclosed. You desire information in regard to the cargo of the Cataract. I did not receipt for it, as it was not deemed necessary until such time as I could have a house erected for it, during which time there came a threatening storm and blow from the west and carried away the entire cargo, the surf raising thirty feet higher than it has been (from appearances) for twenty years, an occurrence without precedent and entirely unlooked for by old and experienced sailors. You will find enclosed the receipts. As many of the Indians are destitute of clothing, and I have a supply of pants, linseys & sheeting on hand, enough to give nearly all the grown men a pair each and enough linsey & sheeting to make each woman and child a dress, I desire to know if I can issue them. Humanity would seem to demand it; will the government sanction it; if so please inform me as soon as convenient, and it will save a heavy expense transporting them up the Siletz. Capt. Smith has withdrawn his detachment of troops from this station, and many of the Indians have become very insolent since they left. They robbed the butcher's house some four days since, and yesterday the soldiers' houses were broken open and everything belonging to the hospital destroyed, together with the articles left by the soldiers. They have a great many pistols and guns; where they have obtained them I am unable to say, but I am well satisfied they have been getting ammunition from the Tillamook. Shall I order out the military and disarm them--if so what degree of force will I be justified in using; everything appears to be in preparation for a grand rush in the spring; they are making a great many powder horns, bows & arrows, and the unusual avidity with which they seek ammunition warrants me in the belief that they have some evil design on foot.
To
    Capt. A. F. Hedges
        Supt. Ind. Affrs.
            O.T.
NARA Series M2, Microcopy of Records of the Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs 1848-1873, Reel 15; Letters Received, 1857, No. 11.



    Then came the era of subjugation. The Indians were gathered on reservations, and fed and guarded by military. A young man named Sheridan, a lieutenant of infantry, was one of their guardian angels at that period. That was a speculative epoch of history. Indian agents were appointed to look after those wards of the government, and see if they were treated according to law
    That was a time when bran and shorts passed readily for flour, and "bull beef" was considered wholesome diet for aboriginal stomachs. Indian agents became rich by some sudden stroke, as if they had mysteriously touched Aladdin's lamp. The savages became poor literally, as to flesh, soul, and purse--and savage. They died off. The miserable remnant of them dragged out a loathsome existence. I had the wretchedness to spend one season in proximity to an Indian Agency. The mercury that winter was for weeks 10° to 33° below zero, but the Indians, and the whites that governed and guarded them, were morally lower than that. At that time--about 1860--there were tribes of the North--such as the Coeur d'Alenes and Nez Percés--under missionary teachings and care, that had some marks of decency, but the Indians on the newly established reservations were poor and ignorant; no effort was made for their improvement. An Indian agency was considered a source of wealth. One fact that my children can remember in connection with me will be, that in 1865, at Washington, I declined the offer from an Oregon Senator of an Indian Agency in Idaho.
S. A. Clarke, "Indians of the Far Northwest," Overland Monthly, October 1884, pages 405-406


    We think of the recall as a more or less modern feature of Oregon politics. As a matter of actual fact, the recall was extensively used in Oregon 60 years ago, though it was not called by that name. In the territorial legislature one of the favorite pastimes was recalling officials.
    In 1856 the Oregon legislature requested the President of the United States to recall General Wool as commander of the Department of the Pacific. At the same session the legislators camped on the trail of General Joel Palmer, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Oregon, determined to get his scalp.
    The friendly Indians were being removed to agencies to protect them from being killed by lawless whites. Word was brought to the tribes that if they went to the agencies they would certainly be killed. General Palmer told them if they remained where they were they would be killed. So the poor Indians were between the devil and the deep blue sea, and didn't know what to do.
    The following letter written by Joel Palmer from Dayton, Oregon Territory, on January 22, 1856, gives an interesting sidelight on the "white man's war," which, like a wheel within a wheel, was carried on bitterly during the Indian wars of '55 and '56. Mr. Palmer's letter is addressed to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at Washington, D.C., and reads in part as follows.
    "The identification of E. R. Geary, my secretary, with that class of persons who encourage a spirit of resistance to the carrying out of the plans, adopted under your instructions, for the colonization and settlement of Indian tribes in this territory has induced me to dispense with his services in this office. The other consideration inducing this course is the bungling manner in which the accounts and papers in this office have been gotten up by which it is greatly feared pecuniary losses may be sustained.
    "The lower house of the legislative assembly passed a memorial by an almost unanimous vote, asking Congress to restrain the Superintendent of Indian Affairs from locating Indians in this valley and declaring me foolish and visionary in attempting to settle Indians upon the coast reservations. During the discussion of this memorial the members had agreed in caucus to petition the President for my removal, and, after several meetings among the members and disagreements as to which of their number was entitled to the boon, a letter was drawn up and signed by three of the members propounding certain questions to Mr. Geary, among which was: Whether in the event of his appointment to the superintendency he would countermand the order by which the friendly Indians were to be congregated at the encampment and whether he would encourage the abandonment of the coast reservation. He was informed that upon his answer depended his chances for obtaining the vote in the caucus asking the President for my dismissal and his appointment."
    The following petition, copied from the official records of the Oregon territorial legislative session of 1856, speaks for itself and shows that in those long-gone days they used the recall with great effectiveness:
    "To his excellency, Franklin Pierce, President of the United States:
    "We, the undersigned Democratic members of the council and house of representatives of the Territory of Oregon, would most respectfully but earnestly pray your excellency to remove the present incumbent, Joel Palmer, from the office of Superintendent of Indian Affairs of this territory. This we ask for the following reasons:
    "First--The official conduct of the said Palmer, during the two years last past, abundantly satisfies your petitioners that he, the said Palmer, is unqualified for the proper discharge of the duties of said office. In forming treaties with Indian tribes within this territory he has, in entire and willful disregard of the expressed unwillingness of the recognized chiefs of tribes to assent to or sign proposed treaties, recognized other Indians as chiefs of tribes and received their signatures to his treaties, which, together with other foolish and visionary acts and movements on his part, has greatly contributed to produce the present Indian war and to bring upon the defenseless inhabitants of this frontier the combined power and hostility of a horde of worthless savages. And what is still more inexcusable and unendurable, the said Palmer is at this moment engaged in efforts to purchase the land claims of citizens residing on the west side of the Willamette Valley contiguous to the Coast Range mountains with the avowed intention of bringing thousands of Indians from remote parts of the country and colonizing them in the heart of this, the Willamette valley.
    "Second--We would also further represent to your excellency the fact that the said Palmer, representing himself to be a sound national Democrat, but through a spirit of political perfidy, ingratitude and meanness, he, the said Palmer, did about one year since join the 'Know Nothings,' and having bound himself with the perfidious oath of that dark and hellish secret political order, has faithfully kept his oath and neglected to vote for the nominees of the Democratic Party and by appointing incompetent 'Know Nothing Whigs' to office to the exclusion of sound, worthy and competent Democrats.
    "We earnestly pray that the said Palmer may be promptly removed from said office of Indian superintendent and that Edward R. Geary, a sound, consistent and reliable national Democrat and an able and worthy citizen, be appointed in his stead, and we will not allow ourselves to believe for one moment that our prayer will be disregarded."
    This memorial was signed at Salem, January 8, 1856, by Delazon Smith. speaker of the house of representatives, and the following members of the territorial legislature:
    William Tichenor, H. C. Buckingham, John Robinson, F. Waymire, R. P. Boise, Philo Callender, Hyer Jackson, James Officer, William Hutson, Hugh L. Brown, Orville Risley, A. McAlexander, I. R. Moores. John Harris, B. P. Grant, G. W. Brown, John E. Hale, M. C. Barkwell, Andrew Shuck, A. R. Burbank, William P. Harpole, Hugh D. O'Bryant, John M. Harrison, Charles Drain, LaFayette Grover, Thomas Smith, N. Huber, H. Straight, J. M. Cozad, N. H. Gates, James M. Fulkerson, A. P. Dennison, president of the council; James K. Kelly, John C. Peebles.
Oregon Journal, Portland, May 14, 1914, page 8




Last revised December 11, 2023