June 1864

Series I, Vol. XXXIV, Part IV

Page 205 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE,ETC.-UNION.

LEAVENWORTH, KANS., June 3, 1864.Major General S. R. CURTIS,

Commanding the Department of Kansas:

SIR: Recent disturbances from the Cheyenne Indians in the western portion of your department have resulted in the interruption of the mails between Fort Riley and Fort Larned, the stock tenders being driven from their posts, one of them killed, and some of the stock taken away. These and other events indicate an unsettled and dangerous condition of the westerly end of this great route from Leavenworth to Fort Larned. The late employes of the contractors and others decline entering upon the same duties unless assured of reasonable protection from similar danger, so that it is impossible to continue the regular trips. This route is an important one to the military service, as well as the civil. It is the leading avenue for the supply of the mail to Fort Larned, and much matter has usually been conveyed over it for Fort Lyon, Fort Union, Santa Fe, and other points in New Mexico. I therefore most respectfully ask your attention to the subject, and, if the occasion shall seem to justify the exercise of your power in the premises, that you will detail such force and at such points as under the circumstances you shall deem necessary to protect the stations of the Kansas Stage Company, and to enable them to resume their regular postal service on said route.

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

CHARLES INGERSOLL,

Agent of the Post-Office Department.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, Fort Leavenworth, June 3, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICERS, Forts Riley and Larned:

Give all possible protection to mails and trains. Saline and Council Grove will be occupied each with a company, and pickets will be arranged at stations. Block-houses must be erected at Saline and Council Grove. Major McKenny will attend personally to carrying out this order.

S. R. CURTIS,Major-General.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, COLORADO TERRITORY,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 3, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Commanding Department of Kansas:

DEAR GENERAL: I inclose copies of correspondence in relation to defense against hostile Indians. It will be destruction and death to Colorado if our lines of communication are cut off, or if they are not kept so securely guarded as that freighters will not be afraid to cross the plains, especially by the Platte River, by which our subsistence comes. We are now short of provisions and but few trains are on the way. I would respectfully ask that our troops may be allowed to defend us and whip these red-skin rebels into submission at once.
I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN EVANS,Governor of Colorado Territory.

[Inclosure. No. 1.]

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, COLORADO TERRITORY, Denver, June 3, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding District of Colorado:

SIR: I inclose for your consideration a copy of a letter received from H. M. Fosdick. I have no doubt of the correctness of the statements therein made, and of the propriety of the request and I hope that the exigencies of the service will permit the presence of an adequate military force in his neighborhood while the present danger from Indian hostilities exists.

Your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

[Sub-Inclosure.]

BOONEVILLE, COLO. TER., May 29, 1864.

Hon. JOHN EVANS,

Governor, &c.:

SIR: May I beg of you, in behalf of my own family and others in this settlement, if not incompatible with the public interest, to allow the present military or an adequate force to remain at Camp Fillmore for defense of our border. It is at this point the Indians cross to and from the Ute fights, and it is here that women have been

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grossly abused, cattle killed, farmers driven from their lands, and fear and danger have run riot. Had I the honor of Colonel Chivington's acquaintance I would write him, but Shoup advises me to lay the matter before you, and views it as I do, a matter of importance. Leaving my family here alone, as I am forced to, I am in constant dread that they may be abused by the Indians that pass and repass at this season of the year. I am not naturally timid, nor would I thus plead did I not know whereof I affirm. In this I am expressing the views of the whole settlement, and I am, faithfully, yours,

H. M. FOSDICK.

[Inclosure No. 2.]

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO, Denver, Colo. Ter., June 3, 1864.

Gov. JOHN EVANS,Territory of Colorado:

GOVERNOR: I am in receipt of your letter of this date, inclosing letter of Mr. Fosdick, on subject of protection from apprehended Indian troubles on the Arkansas River, near Booneville, in reference to which I now have the honor to state in this formal manner the same I have verbally mentioned to you, that as a soldier I am compelled to obey the orders of my superior officers. These orders are to concentrate all my available forces on the extreme southeast corner of this district, from which you will readily perceive, what I write with regret, that I cannot comply with the above-named request.

Since my assuming the command here it has always been my aim to protect all our population from all possible danger, and from the orders under which I am acting, part of which are above quoted, you will readily see that I cannot keep the company now in the neighborhood of Booneville at its present station and obey my orders to send it to the extreme southeast part of the district. I inclose herewith copy of a letter from Lieutenant Shoup, commanding Camp Fillmore, which may serve to show you that there is not all the cause to fear that Mr. Fosdick apprehends. Yet, sir, believe me I am not insensible to the hourly danger of our outsettlements from the Indians, and shall always, as heretofore, do all in my power to protect them.

I am, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.

[Sub-inclosure.]

CAMP FILLMORE, COLO. TER., May 30, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 27th instant, with instructions not to break camp, to send detachment on scout, &c., all of which will be promptly and strictly executed. Since sending you the extract taken from Major Wynkoop's letter, I have seen and conversed with Mrs. D. J. Hayden, of Pueblo, and Mrs. A. M. Robb, of the Huerfano, who have just arrived from the State by the Arkansas route, and who state that they were escorted from Fort Larned to Fort Lyon by Lieutenant Eayre. Lieutenant E. informed them that when within one day's march of Larned he was attacked by the Cheyenne Indians, had a running fight for 7 or 8 miles, had 3 or 4 killed thinks that many of the Indians

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were killed, including one of the chiefs also, that three trains have been robbed of all their animals by the Indians, and a man on the Big Bend on the Arkansas, who had a squaw for his wife, has lost all of his stock, the Indians making him ride off one of his own animals. Several other ranches are said to be robbed on the Kansas frontier. Surely this looks like trouble. Now these fellows will get all the fighting they want. I believe there are no Indians in this locality at present, but will send out the party of 15 men to see if there are any bands spying around.

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,

GEO. L. SHOUP,First Lieutenant, First Cav.of Colo., Commanding Camp Fillmore.

P. S.-Since writing the above, Lieutenant Eayre has arrived at this camp and confirmed all I have written. He will be in Denver in four days will give you all the particulars in detail on his arrival.

SHOUP.

FORT LYON, COLON. TER., June 3, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,Actq. Asst. Adjt. General, District of Colorado:

SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the colonel commanding, that I have just received a dispatch from Lieutenant Wilson, on outpost duty, to the effect that he had certain information of the approach of a body of Texas toward this post. From a Government wagon-master he had learned of the capture of a train on the Cimarron, by what is supposed to be an advance guard of the rebels. The two sections of the independent battery left here this morning for Fort Larned. I have sent an order for them to halt until further orders. I will send by this express for any detachments en route to this post from the west to make all haste. I have no guns, the two howitzers belonging to Lieutenant Eayre's command having been detained at Larned by the commanding officer of that post. I will be as vigilant as possible-give them another taste of Pigeon's Ranch and Apache Canon and see how they like it. I can hold my own against twice my number, from the fact of my men and horses being fresh, while theirs must be the contrary. Will send forward dispatch when anything of importance transpires.

I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant,

E. W. WYNKOOP,Major, Commanding Fort Lyon.

CAMP 5 MILES ABOVE THE CROSSING OF THE HUERFANO, Friday, June 3, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON:

SIR: Agreeable with instructions, I send you an account of my arrival at this point. I started with Company E from Fort Garland on Wednesday, 1st of June, about 4 o'clock in the afternoon. The roads over Sangre de Cristo Mountains are in a very bad condition, the ground being very soft and the road up the canon very bad indeed, especially at the crossing of the creeks. I shall arrive with

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command at Pueblo in two and a half days' drive from this place, provided I can cross the creeks, which I understand are very high. I have thus far been very fortunate with my stock, but I understand that Captain Soule has taken up two that stampeded before I took command. I wish you would have them sent down, as I am very short of horses and they were the best in the company. I shall be out of forage by the time I arrive at Pueblo. I have fifteen days' rations. I have seven Government wagons, a portion of which I shall send back to Ford Garland in the morning. A messenger tells me that the roads are terrible and that the Arkansas cannot be forded at any place, but I shall try and get through as soon as I can.

Yours, respectfully,

ISAAC GRAY,Captain Co. E, First Cavalry of Colorado.

P. S.-I shall send this by messenger to Pueblo.
I. G.

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Page 229 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE,ETC.-UNION.

FORT GARLAND, COLO. TER., June 4, 1864.

Colonel JOHN M. CHIVINGTON:

COLONEL: Captain Gray left a few days since. After crossing the mountains he was to send back three of his wagons for Captain Jacobs. The roads over the mountains are bad, washed away by raising of the creek. Going down the other side there is from 3 to 5 miles of very miry road. The Saint Charles is on a rise and extremely difficult to cross. The Arkansas is reported as very high, consequently I fear Captain Gray will be compelled to retain all of his wagons to enable him to reach Spring Bottom.

If the wagons do not return by Monday, shall be compelled to press some private ox trains into the service that Captain Jacobs may leave on Tuesday. We have been a long time getting off, but I cannot see how it could have been done sooner under the circumstances. Captain Gray took one piece with him, with 20 rounds of one wagon to take the ammunition belonging to these howitzers, which you have ordered to Fort Lyon. I intend to remain here until after Captain Jacobs has left and I am able to take the ammunition, unless otherwise ordered.

Yours,

SAM. F. TAPPAN,Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Post.

FORT LYON, COLO. TER., June 4, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Dist. of Colorado:

SIR: I have the honor to state, for the information of the colonel commanding, that I have additional intelligence which proves almost beyond a doubt, in my mind, the fact of a body of Texans approaching this post. The party who captured the train, that I have before given notice of, carried away with them the mules, singletrees, harness, and fifth chains, proving conclusively that there must be a command in the neighborhood with broken-down stock and transportation.

I have rumors of depredations committed by Kiowa Indians in the neighborhood of Fort Larned, the truth of which I cannot vouch for. I send Captain Hardy with a command 60 miles below this post, and will extend a semicircular line of pickets from that point, stretching in a southeasterly direction, toward Red River. I have no doubt that I can keep well posted in regard to the movements of the enemy. The want of artillery I am afraid will be felt, and if it is possible for me to procure a couple of guns I would most strenuously urge the necessity. I send by this mail, as per order from district headquarters, report of ordnance stores on hand. I am compelled to furnish trains occasionally with arms and ammunition, but having plenty of Austrian rifles they answer the purpose very well. Will be short of ammunition, but understand there is an ordnance train en route for this post from Denver.

I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant,

E. W. WYNKOOP,Major First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding Fort Lyon.

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Page 250 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, June 6, 1864.

His Excellency Governor THOMAS CARNEY:

I am in receipt of your favor of the 1st instant, calling my attention to the protection of Topeka, as it contains the records and valuable archives of the State and U. S. court. I have before had this matter presented and greatly desire to have a force there. I recommended that a few State militia be temporarily detailed, and ordered a company which recently arrived from Iowa to take post at Topeka. In the mean time Indian difficulties occurred at the Smoky Hill River, on the western frontier of the State, which caused a diversion of the company to a temporary effort to suppress those more certain disasters which were driving the settlers from their fields.

I hope very soon my purpose to locate force at Topeka will be carried out. It is my duty, however, to repeat to you that my force is very small, that I am constantly informed of danger from accumulating bushwhackers, who are said to be gathering in Missouri, and I must depend a great deal on State militia to aid me in preserving the towns and people from disasters of the pending war.

I have the honor to remain, Your Excellency's obedient servant,

S. R. CURTIS,Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, June 6, 1864.

JOHN T. COX, Esq.,Special Indian Agent:

DEAR SIR: Yours of the 25th May, in which you present the difficulties and irregularities connected with the Indian trade in cattle, is duly received. When I arrived in this department, the Indian country being part of my command, the matters to which you refer received my anxious attention. I visited the country and gave orders to my troops to do all in their power to stop the contraband trade. But I was told it had become chronic by long continuance, which I found true, and I presented the matter to the Interior and the War Departments, asking for instructions. The stock was passed around my remotely separated stations, and invited rebel raids to follow remote cattle routes. All this seemed to require a joint action on the part of persons associated, in and out of the Indian country, and I hoped the Indian agents and superintendents would especially

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check the illicit trade. But I found on the contrary that persons were licensed to trade with the Indians, and Treasury agents were giving license to it.

I was relieved from command of the Indian Territory and have despaired of doing any great good by past or present efforts. Instead of checking trade, I feared the very trouble you mention, that the troops would, under pretense of checking it, seek to profit by it, and thus become demoralized and diverted from our pressing foes, the bushwhackers. The superintendent of Indians desiring to take the refugees into the Indian country, I have been obliged to draw together all the troops I could to aid that movement, and I have therefore no force to use for purposes of protection and correction of that Indian trade, which is in point of fact consummated beyond my lines. When men under passes and privileges have bought cattle in the Indian country, and brought them into this or any other State, I am not disposed to harass them with arrests and arbitrary proceedings, which should have been done where the mischief, proof, and agents actually operated.

Arrests of droves that have traveled hundreds of miles seem to do no good, as the holders send back and get receipts or testimony, and I have no way of procuring proof of fraud, either in the purchase of the cattle or in the procurement of such proof, as all the parties act beyond my lines. I give no licenses, but desire that you and other agents will discriminate and allow honest, loyal men to collect the stock and save it or sell it, for while it runs loose and wild it invites bushwhackers into the country now abandoned, or it leaves a fair motive for the poor Indians to seek purchasers at low rates rather than risk what they have thus abandoned. What the military cannot do, the agents may be able to do, and it would be doing a great benefit to Indians and white men to stop this waste of property, which, I am told, now results in shooting cattle merely for their hides.

It is very right to do all we can, and if you can show me any way that I can prevent the trade I will be glad to adopt your suggestions, but you perceive I have not a soldier to spare from legitimate duty in guarding against Cheyennes and bushwhackers, and no right to meddle with matters that transpire in the Indian Territory, which was taken out of my command, and no disposition to intrude my suggestions any further on the Departments of the Interior and Treasury, when authority to trade and traffic with Indians is given to loyal citizens who no doubt abuse their privileges. I have long since despaired of seeing justice dealt out to Indians, but shall never cease to do all in my power to secure it. I hope the many thousands now going back to the Indian country will gather up and eat all the cattle remaining. I have directed my officers to accompany the Indians down, with ample protection, and staying in the country seems to include the necessity of taking care of their stock.

The commander of troops in the Indian country can easily prevent fraud, if he has any considerable amount of troops, by arresting persons engaged in fraudulent purchases and by favoring honest transactions. There is the place and that is the way to do it. Indian agents, living with the Indians, must know when and who and where and how to strike, and I do not see why nothing seems to emanate from them but permits or certificates, or general complaints of the military. Your information and impulses may indeed enable you to do more than others have done to secure reform, but I am

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sorry to say, after five months of effort, I have found Indian trade regulations entirely beyond the control of my slender, attenuated lines, and I fear beyond yours, or those who ought to co-operate with you, within the Indian Territory.

Again assuring you that I am anxious and willing to do anything I can to prevent the infernal injustice that is carried on, as you say, under the general cognomen of "cattle business" in the southern portions of Kansas, I remain, very truly, your friend and obedient servant,

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT GARLAND, COLO. TER., June 6, 1864.

Colonel JOHN M. CHIVINGTON, U. S. Volunteers,

Commanding District:

COLONEL: Inclosed orders just received from Fort Lyon, to make a forced march to that post. Nothing is stated to enable me to conclude whether the circumstances are such as to justify a forced march or not. The last mail brought me a letter from Lieutenant Baldwin that Major Wynkoop had sent him word that Lieutenant Eayre's command had all been killed by the Indians. Subsequently I learned that the same command was all right. Now, upon what information the major issued the inclosed orders I am ignorant, and am unable in consequence to decide upon the best course to pursue. Shall await further orders. Shall move Company A out to-morrow. Captain Gray has sent back two wagons, and reports the roads in a horrible condition, and his advance toward Fort Lyon consequently very slow. People here (among the Mexicans) are apprehensive of serious difficulties with the Utes for what reasons I know not. If further information of importance reaches me from Fort Lyon, I shall leave for that post.
Yours, truly,

SAM. F. TAPPAN,

Lieutenant Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding Post.

P. S.-General Brown has just arrived and reports that a train had been captured between Lyon and Larned, by 45 men.

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HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 8, 1864.

Major General S. R. CURTIS:

Have ten companies cavalry 60 miles below Lyon, at Lyon, and on the way to Lyon, and below. Can keep things quiet between Lyon and Larned when I get there once. The unprecedented high waters have impeded our movements. Creeks, before always dry, have had 15 to 20 feet of water in them. Have 100 men with no horses what shall I do? Company I is at Garland, H at Fremont's Orchard. Shall I send down?

J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Colonel, Commanding District of Colorado.

FORT LYON, COLO. TEN., June 8, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Colorado:

SIR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the colonel commanding, that since last dispatch I have not received any important intelligence in regard to the movements of the Texans, except Lieutenant Wilson reports the presence of 2 scouts on the Arkansas, presumed to the those of the enemy. The measures I have adopted will enable me in a very few days to ascertain, beyond a doubt, the exact locality and, in all probability, about the number of rebels supposed to be camped near Red River.

I have information from an Indian, unreliable, I presume, to the effect that the force of the enemy amounts to 4,000 or 5,000, with a large amount of transportation. He states that their stock is broken down, and they are not able to move before recruiting. I have but 129 efficient men now at this post as soon as I can procure a sufficient number so as to enable me to leave an ample garrison in this post, I will make a reconnaissance in force, or, if practicable, make an attack. Thinking that the emergency of the case requires it, I have taken the responsibility of sending Lieutenant Baldwin to Fort Garland after the two howitzers now there. From J. B. Watrass, wagon-master for Watrass and Tipton, I have reports to the effect

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that Kiowa Indians robbed his train on the 25th of May, about 30 miles below Fort Mackey, on the Arkansas. Have various reports of an alliance between Kiowa and Cheyenne Indians and Texan rebels.
I am, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant,

E. W. WYNKOOP,

Major First Cav. of Colo., Commanding Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,

Fort Leavenworth, June 9, 1864.

His Excellency Governor T. CARNEY:

Yours of the 7th, concerning the anxiety of the people of Kansas in the vicinity of Emporia, and urging me to station Federal forces below to cover the neighborhood, is duly received. I have also had this matter strongly urged by persons of that vicinity, and have promised to do all in my power in view of my slender resources and the dangers and demands elsewhere. At present I have withdrawn most of the troops in that region to escort the refugee Indians to their homes, but I will call the attention of General McKean to an early effort to conform, as far as possible, to your suggestions and

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the anxious desires of the people. In the mean time, I respectfully recommend to Your Excellency a liberal use of your functions in the organization and equipment of the militia in that region, when, do the very best I can, I must after all depend very much on the resident inhabitants to aid in discovering and repelling danger.I remain, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,

Fort Leavenworth, June 9, 1864.

Brigadier-General McKEAN,

Commanding District of Southern Kansas, Paola:

GENERAL: My attention has been called to the neighborhood of Barnesville, where it is said bushwhackers have recently approached within 2 miles of our line. I consider it a great credit to you that they do not venture clear over, but this is said to be an important settlement, and I hope you will give it special regard. The Governor and people have also called my attention to the region of Emporia. I have said when your troops return from escorting the refugee Indians you may be able to give special attention to that region mean time I wish you would, if you think it safe, have a picket or occasional scout sent down by the company stationed at Council Grove. I think, however, the forward move of the refugees is a considerable protection to that region of country, as it partially covers the probable line of rebel approach.

Respectfully and truly, yours,

S. R. CURTIS,Major-General.

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Page 318 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

In Field, near Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter., June 11, 1864.

Major C. S CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Kansas:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that I arrived here this morning after four days' hard staging. I find that the troops are well stationed. Besides any reasonable amount of escort duty, they are scouting the country far and near. There are no Indians at or near the road between here and Larned. A detachment has been over on

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Cimarron to where the Mexican train was captured, and can find no signs of any one in all that country. Have now sent a large command over on the Red River to look after them. From all I can find out, it was a party who knew all about the specie the man owning the train had, and had followed near if from Chihuahua. General Carleton, commanding Department of New Mexico, has also sent troops from Fort Union after the band. This may have been the advance of a large force from Texas, but I think not. I can soon tell definitely as to the facts in the case.
The Kiowas and Cheyennes are determined on war, and will have to be soundly thrashed before they will be quiet. The Comanches and Apaches seem determined to be at peace still the warlike tribes are pressing them hard to join them in fighting the whites, and it is hard to tell what they will do. They say no fight. As I stated a few days [since] in a dispatch, the waters are and have been so unprecedentendly high that troops will not be here as soon as I reported they would be. Captain Parmeter, at Larned, got a scare. Ordered [to be] kept all the troops of Lieutenant Eayre's command at Larned, and Major Wynkoop, commanding this post, got a scare on, and kept the two sections of the First Battery just below this post. They will march again to-morrow I regret this delay in sending balance of battery to Larned, but knew nothing of it until my arrival here. No troops will hereafter be detained here who are ordered away.

I find on my arrival here that the detachment that Captain Parmetar kept at Larned that was designed to be returned here have arrived, but he had kept the howitzers. I consider this leaves us entirely unsafe either against Texans or Indians. The major-general commanding told me they would be returned for me to use with my cavalry, and I suppose it is still his design to have it so. I so stated to the commanding officer at Larned, but he has acted differently. Hope the major-general will let him know what his wishes are in the matter. If the Indians can be taken care of on the Platte by General Mitchell, I can keep the route between Larned and Lyon clerar of Indians and rebels, and, if you so direct, can make campaign into Texas, or after Indians on Smoky Hill and Republican. Will report twice a week, and oftener if anything important occurs. Will select officer to act on staff as engineer, and will make report on subject of location of posts. The suggestion made some time ago by the major-general that Hickory Rodgers' place was best place to operate from was founded, as I took it, from the impression that it was below this post on the Arkansas River. On the contrary, it is 90 miles above this post on this river. Have two companies now 70 miles below this post, and will send more to-morrow or next day.

I am, major, with much respect, your obedient servant,

J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 11, 1864-12 p. m.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGSTON,

Commanding District of Colorado Territory:

DEAR SIR: I inclose the statement of 2 men who have just arrived from Coal Creek and Box Elder, in relation to Indian depredations.

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As the camp of Indians is doubtless near, I request that you send a detachment of soldiers after [them] to recover the stock and chastise the Indians. As the Indians are probably a war party in considerable force, I suggest that the detachment be as strong as you can make it.

JUNE 12, 1864.

P. S.-Since writing the above there has arrived a messenger from Mr. Van Wormer's ranch, 10 miles south of the cut-off road, on Box Elder. He says that yesterday afternoon the Indians drove off his stock, burned Mr. Van W.'s house, and murdered a man who was in Mr. Van W.'s employ, his wife, and two children, and burned his house also. I hope the troops leaving for Lyon may be allowed to capture this party or kill them, as they are so near, and not be hurried away from such an unprotected settlement while it is being murdered and destroyed. I hope a detachment from Camp Sanborn may also be sent in pursuit.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS.

[Inclosure.]

DENVER, June 11, 1864-10 p. m.

His Excellency JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory:

SIR: We have to inform you that a party of Indians ran off our stock this afternoon on Coal Creek, and a short distance beyond, about 10 miles from this place, being 49 head of mules and 1 horse. They were pursued some 10 or 12 miles to a point on Box Elder Creek, nearly east of the first-named point, by two young men, who, perceiving a large hear of ponies, which they estimated at 150, indicating an Indian camp, they returned for fear of being themselves captured or killed. We give this information, requesting that our stock may be recovered by a military force, if possible.

We are, respectfully, your obedient servants,

J. S. BROWN,

THOS. J. DARRAH.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 11, 1864.

Captain JOSEPH C. DAVIDSON,First Cavalry of Colorado:

CAPTAIN: Information has been received at these headquarters that Indians have commenced depredations on Coal Creek at about 5 p. m. this day, by running off 49 head of mules belonging to Brown an Darrah, and others. It has not been definitely ascertained what tribe the Indians belonged to. They were followed some 15 miles in a southeasterly direction, toward the Republican, to their camp, and on the route they shot 1 pony. Their numbers are estimated to be about 50. The parties say they saw 100 ponies.

You will immediately send out a detachment of 50 men, under charge of a commissioned officer, to pursue and punish these thieves, and instruct the officer in command not to encumber himself with any prisoners (Indians). The bearer of this, Mr. Darrah, will guide

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the detachment to their encampment. You will also instruct the officer in command of the detachment to rejoin your command at some point beyond the head of Cherry Creek that you shall designate within forty-eight hours from the time of leaving. See that the detachment are well armed. As rapid marching is absolutely necessary the detachment will only take the essential parts of their rations.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 12, 1864.

Governor JOHN EVANS, Territory of Colorado:

GOVERNOR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication dated 11th instant, referring to Indian depredations, &c., and am pleased to be able to reply that prompt measures have been taken, with such means as are at present available, to protect the people and to pursue and punish the Indians. But as you will perceive by the letter of the colonel commanding to yourself, dated June 3, 1864, the services of the military are imperatively required

Page 330 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

at another part of the Territory and district, and the aide which the district commander is most anxious to afford by the presence of his troops upon this scene of trouble must necessarily be temporary, as the orders of the department command, of which you have received notice, rendered no other alternative possible.

In view of this state of affairs, it is most respectfully suggested that the militia of this Territory might be of considerable service in this emergency by garrisoning certain points that are likely to be threatened, thus relieving from such duty what mounted troops there are now on the Platt, who could be used in the pursuit and punishment of the Indians, and to perform absence of the district commander, I have taken the liberty to make this suggestion, believing that by such measures promptly taken our out-settlements may be protected and the Indians pursued and brought to punishment.

I am, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 12, 1864.

Captain J. C. DAVIDSON,

First Cavalry of Colorado:

CAPTAIN: I have this day received a letter from His Excellency Governor John Evans in relation to the Indian depredations which were commenced yesterday, and which, after mentioning the facts contained in inclosed letters of J. S. Brown, contains following postscript:

Since writing the above there has arrived a messenger from Mr. Van Wormer's ranch, 10 miles south of the cut-off road, on Box Elder. He says that yesterday afternoon the Indians drove off his stock, burned Mr. Van Wormer's house, and murdered a man who was in Mr. Van Wormer's employ, his wife, and two children, and burned his house also.

You will take from the command still remaining to you as strong a detachment as can be spared and leave your camp secure, and proceed out after these Indians. Lieutenant Dunn's command has been seen at about 8 this a. m. near Box Elder, and about 8 miles from the Indian camp, and headed directly for it. From the information received it is presumed that the Indians are in force, and it will be as well to proceed so as to be in supporting distance of Lieutenant Dunn. In this matter you will use your own discretion, as, being upon the ground, your sources of information will be much better. Be not misled by the flying rumors, and do not keep your command out longer than there is prospect or success nor encumber your command with prisoner Indians.

J. M. CHIVINGTON.

CAMP DUNN, COLO. TER., June 12, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:

SIR: Pursuant to instructions received from dispatch headquarters last night, I have sent Lieutenant Dunn with 50 men of Company C, but as your order is for the detachment to join the command within

Page 331 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

forty-eight hours, they cannot follow the Indians with any hope of overtaking them. I wish you would order me to pursue them until I do overtake them or something definite.Yours, in haste,

JOE C. DAVIDSON,

Captain, Commanding Camp Dunn.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 12, 1864.

Captain J. C. DAVIDSON,

First Cavalry of Colorado:

Yours of this date received. When that order was written it was thought the Indians were encamped within a few miles of your command, and that forty-eight hours would be sufficient to overtake, kill, and return. Use your own discretion in regard to following the Indians, but do not delay a moment longer than there appears to be a prospect of success.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 353 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION. Chapter XLVI.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANS., June 13, 1864.

Governor JOHN EVANS:

I send orders to Colonel Chivington as requested. You must act on your own authority and discretion in calling out militia. I hope you will do so and allow the Federal troops to come forward soon.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 13, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

Asst. Adjt. General, Department of Kansas:

Afternoon of 11th, Indians stole 100 horses and mules from parties on Box elder, Kiowa, and Coal Creeks, about 20 miles from Denver burned houses on two ranches murdered ranchman, his wife, two children ravished woman before killing. I sent orders to Captain Davidson, commanding Company C (detained on Cherry Creek by flood), to send out detachment 50 men in pursuit, with orders to rejoin command en route to lyon within two days also ordered Lieutenant Chase, with detachment from Fremont's Orchard, in pursuit. Governor Evans has called upon militia, who are unmounted, never drilled, scattered, and consequently inefficient. Settlements so scattered they cannot be guarded.

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 13, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. of Kansas:

MAJOR: I have the honor to furnish herewith, for the information of the commanding general, copy of letter of Messrs. Brown, Corbin, and Darrah, dated Denver, june 13, 1864, relative to Indian thefts and massacres. I also furnish copy* of letter of His Excellency Governor Evans, of this territory, threatening of the same subject, and requesting aid of the very scanty military force now at hand in this emergency. As will be seen by telegram of Colonel Chivington, commanding district, to Major-General Curtis, dated 8th instant, ten of the twelve companies of cavalry in the district are en route to fort Lyon in obedience to orders of the commanding general. One of the companies remaining is at Fremont's Orchard, the other at Fort Garland. Company C, which has principally participated in the recent scouting and hunting of Indians, were making as rapid marching for Lyon as the state of their stock and of the swollen streams permitted (the high water having swept off all bridges), as will be seen by my telegram of this date to you.

I ordered a party of this command in pursuit of the Indians, limiting their time of absence from their command, as, in view of the major-general's telegram of 10th instant to Colonel Chivington, I

---------------

* See Evans to Chivington, June 11, p. 319.23 R R - VOL XXXIV, PT IV

---------------

Page 354 LOUISIANA AN THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

did not feel that I would be justified in taking another course. From information received, I believed that the troops were within 15 miles of their camp, and that the summary punishment ordered to be given them could be effected with but little delay. From later information it appears that these attacks have been preconcerted, and that the Indians cannot be reached by the detachment of Company C in the limited time given them. Hence I have ordered Captain J. C. Davidson to proceed with another detachment of Company C in pursuit of the Indians, o exercise his own direction in the pursuit, but not to continue it longer than he things there is prospect of success. Since writing the above the bodies of the Hungate family, refereed to in letter of Messrs. Brown, Corbin, and Darrah, have been brought to Denver. They are horribly mutilated the man and woman scalped.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Inclosure.]

DENVER, COLO. TER., June 13, 1864.

Captain MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:

DEAR SIR: We, the undersigned, desire to lay before you such facts connected with the Indian massacre on Box Elder Creek of Saturday, the 11th instant, as came within our personal observation, and other perfectly reliable information obtained from Mr. Johnson, who lives near the scene of that inhuman outrage. We left this town yesterday morning, upon information received that about 40 to 50 mules belonging to the undersigned, Messrs, Brown and Darrah, freighters, had been stampeded in the boldest manner in broad daylight by Indians belonging to the Cheyenne tribe. Mr. Brown's mules were stampeded from Coal Creek, on the main highway from here to the Missouri River, and only 13 miles from Denver. This fact is mentioned to show the boldness of the operation.

Ascertaining that that Indians, after taking a northeasterly direction (for the purpose of misleading pursuit, probably), had turned, and crossed the road near Box Elder Creek, we proceeded to that locality, and thence up that creek about 6 miles, where we met Mr. Johnson coming down, who imparted the startling intelligence that the family of a ranchman named Hungate, living a few miles farther up, had been brutally murdered by Indians, the ranch burned to the ground, and about 30 head of horses and mules driven off. The massacre had occurred on the day previous, some time shortly afternoon, and Mr. Johnson had just assisted a party the mill above in removing the bodies of the murdered woman and children. His statement was substantially as follows The party from the mill and himself, upon reaching the place, ha found it in ruins and the house burned to the ground. About 100 yards from the desolated ranch they discovered the body of the murdered woman and her two dead children, one of which was a little girl of four years and the other an infant. The woman had been stabbed in several places and scalped, and the body bore evidences of having been violated. The two children had their throats cut, their heads being nearly severed from their bodies. Up to this time the body of the man had not been found, but upon our return down the creek, on the opposite

Page 355 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.- UNION.

side, we found the body. It was horribly mutilated and the scalp torn off. The family are spoken of by their neighbors as having been very worthy and excellent people. Such is a correct statement of the terrible affair, which occurred only a little more than 20 miles from Denver, and we will only add that the settlers in all that region of country are much alarmed, and justly so and unless the military in force proceed against the Indians at once all the ranches will be deserted, and much suffering probably ensue.

Very respectfully, yours,

J. S. BROWN.

D. C. CORBIN.

THOS. J. DARRAH.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 381 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.- UNION.

DENVER, COLO. TER., June 14, 1864.

(Received 11.45 p. m.)

Honorable E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War:

Indian hostilities on our settlements commenced, as per information given you last fall. One settlement devastated 25 miles east of here murdered and scalped bodies brought in to-day. Our troops near all gone. Can furnish 100-days' men, if authorized to do so, to fight Indians. militia cannot be made useful unless in the U. S. service, to co-operate with troops. Shall I call a regiment of 100 days' men or muster into U. S. service the militia?

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 402 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

FORT LARNED, KANS., June 15, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Kansas:

I have the honor to report, after making all necessary arrangements for the defense of Saline, I moved with 40 men for Smoky Fork Crossing, where I arrived on the evening of the 9th distance l35 miles. I found the ranch entirely deserted. This being one of the most important and dangerous points on the road, as it is thought the Denver mail will now travel this route, I proceeded on the following morning to erect a block-house form timbers which I found already cut, and which were already hewed on two sides, but it was found necessary to hew the other two sides on account of the crookedness of the logs. On the 13th, having one story of the building up, left it with instructions, in charge of Lieutenant Ellsworth, of the Seventh Iowa Cavalry, to finish, and escorted the stage to Walnut Fork, a distance of 40 miles, and camped at a point where the road intersects the old Santa Fe road, and where the Leavenworth and Kansas City mails are due at the same time. I found this ranch entirely deserted, and the owner, who is here, says some of his stock was run off by the Cheyennes. I intend to build a block-house here on my return.

By delaying the first stage until the next arrives, our escort will answer for both stages to Larned. Arrival at Fort Larned on the evening of the 14th, during a very heavy thunder storm, and found the command of the post with about half the garrison on a scout

Page 403 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

after Indians, but they got no Indians but lenity of buffalo. Captain Parmetar, of the Twelfth Kansas Infantry, in command here, is reported by every officer and man that I have heard speak of him as a confirmed drunkard. Fort Larned is only a fort in name, as there are no defenses. An attempt has been made to thrown up breast-works around it, or one-third of it, as the Pawnee Creek, on which it is built, defends the other two-thirds. This breast-work averages about 20 inches high, with the ditch on the inner side. The huts are built of adobe, of a very inferior quality, the sod being sandy, and they are covered by little crooked poles, with dirt and grass thrown on the same, and I do assure you the sight presented in the huts occupied for quartermaster and commissary stores was awful. The water had been steaming down amongst the corn, flour, beans, and everything else, and by this rain alone over 100 sacks of flour were ruined besides, I saw over 1,000 bushels of corn, according to Lieutenant Crocker's (the assistant quartermaster) estimate, which was ruined. He assured me that over $5,000 worth has been lost in the last twelve months. I thinks this loss might have been materially lessened by proper attention of officers responsible, and I think the men's time could be much better employed in the erection of stone buildings, instead of going every few days on fruitless scouts, as there is good building stone within 3 miles of the place.

It is my opinion that these scouts tend to run horses down, with no prospect whatever of meeting the Indians and that the commanders of these little posts should be instructed to adhere to their escort duties, improving their defenses, and to drill, and if the Indians are to be fought a sufficient force should be sent to crush them out. I have had several accounts of the battle or skirmish that took place between the Colorado troops and the Cheyennes. Fifteen wagons were purchased on the steeds of Denver City, and Lieutenant Eayer, with two mountain howitzers and 84 men, all told, went in search of Indians, with instructions to burn bridges and kill Cheyennes whenever and wherever found. With his 84 men and only 15 wagons he wandered off out of his distrait, within 50 miles of this place. The Indians, finding his command well scattered, his wagons being behind without any rear guard, artillery in the center 1 1\2 miles from them, and the cavalry 1 mile in advance, made an attack, killing 3 instantly and wounding 3 others, 1 dying two days afterward, the Colorado troops retreating to this place. Lieutenant Burton, who was in the fight, is my authority.

I have met La-hor-san, a venerable Indian chief of the Kiowa tribe, who professes (and no doubt is in earnest) great friendship for the whites he has about a dozen lodges with him, and they are principally old men, women, and children. He exercises great influence with his tribe, and it is thought will yet prevent many from joining the Cheyennes, as he is very eloquent and earnest in his appeals to them. He asked many questions as to where I came from and what was my business. I told him, through an interpreter, that the great general commanding all this country was much pleased with him, and that he was known far and wide as a great and good chief. The old man is mourning for a near relative, and has lately cut off one of his fingers, and burned his fine lodge, 19 fine robes, and a wagon, and killed 3 horses, besides destroying other favorite things. I next visited the principal chief of the Arapahoes, Little Raven, and went into his lodge, which, together with its contents, was a great curiosity, and could it be transported just as it is, would be a valua-

Page 404 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

ble accession to one of our sanitary fairs. Little Raven and Thunder Stone jointly presented me with a bow and quiver of arrows, the quiver being made out of a panther skin. I told him it was customary in our country to give a lock of their hair to friends he laughed and replied that all the money I could give him would not tempt him to give me a particle of it.

I regard to these Indian difficulties, I think if great caution is not exercised on our part there will be a bloody war. It should be our policy to try and conciliate them, guard our mails and trains well to prevent theft, and stop these scouting parties that are roaming over the country who do not know one tribe from another, and who will kill anything in the shape of an Indian. It will require but few murders on the part of our troops to unite all these warlike tribes of the plains, who have been at peace for years and intermarried amongst one another. I do wish that some prudent, good man could be placed in command of the troops along the roads from Smoky Fork, on the Leavenworth road, to Walnut Creek, and from Cow Creek thorough to Fort Lyon, on the Kansas City or old Santa Fe road.

The arrangements I have made in regard to escorting the mails are as follows: The officer at Saline, who has 20 men, will escort to Smoky Hill Fork, and wait for return mail. The officer at Smoky Hill Fork, who has 40 men, will escort to Walnut Creek, and wait for return mail. Officer at Walnut Creek will require the Kansas City or Leavenworth mail to await the arrival of the one behind time, and escort to Fort Larned he will have 40 men at this passes the eastern boundary mail guarded by Fort Lyon troops. this arrangement gives both escorts nearly a week to rest, the one at Lyon and the other at Larned. I have made no arrangement from Walnut Creek to Council Grove, but intend Council Grove to furnish escort to that point and back. In regard to the numerous individual and Government trains passing, the commanding officers of posts at the commencement of the Indian country should require both inward and outward bound trains to wait until a number are collected, so that they might ber able to defend themselves.

The inclosed is a copy of orders given to commanders of posts to govern escorts. I found something of this kind absolutely necessary to prevent escort from running their horses down after buffalo, also as a check to the several stage companies, who care not a cent how many Government horses are broken down as they keep up their reputation for the benefit of the Government that a one story stone house be built at this point for commissary and quartermaster's stores, also one for a hospital for could you but see the miserable excuse for a hospital that our sick soldiers are obliged to stay in, I know the heart of the general commanding would be moved to compassion. I further, as a duty, must report the sutler, Jesse H. Crane, appointed by Government, as a duty, must report the sutler, Jesse H. Crane, appointed by Government, as selling whisky without stint, contrary to act of Congress, which says, "A sutler shall not see intoxicating spirits." He is also reported by many as selling revolvers to the Indians.

I have the honor to be, very truly, your obedient servant,

T. I. McKENNY,

Major and Inspector-General.

Page 405 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

[Inclosure.]

FORT LARNED, KANS., June 15, 1864.

Commanding officers of posts sending out escorts with mails or trains will give orders to officers in command of the same to adhere strictly to their escort duties, and will prohibit them from further require that the speed taken by the escort will be such that the horses can stand up under, and the parties seeking protection must conform to their gait if they would have the benefit thereof. While Government is desirous and is making every effort to protect individual property, it becomes necessary to adhere to these rules, that their property, too, may be cared for and rendered effective.

By command of Major-General Curtis:

T. I. McKENNY,

Major and Inspector-General.

DENVER, COLO. TER., June 15, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER DISTRICT OF COLORADO:

SIR: I desire to make in behalf of myself and the other immigrants accompanying me the following statement of loss of stock on June 9, 1864: Myself and party of immigrants, consisting in all of but 3 men with their families, en route from Kansas to California, were encamped on the cut-off on Bijou Creek, about 65 miles from Denver, Colo. At about the dusk of evening of the said day our stock consisting of 6 horses and 4 mules, were stampeded by a party of 6 mounted men, who had dress and every appearance of being Indians, and who came upon our our camp suddenly, and by shouts and the firing of guns stampeded the above-named stock and ran it off. The trail of the robbers was followed by us on the following morning for the distance of 2 miles, when the pursuit was abandoned on account of our inferior numbers and the unprotected condition of our families and property.

Respectfully, yours,

EVAN REYNOLDS.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 421 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Denver, Colo. Ter., June 16, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS:

DEAR SIR: I am sorry to inform you that there is a defect in our militia law, and it is difficult to act under it. I have a few good, small companies organization, but they will not do for other than home

Page 422 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

defense. The Indian alliance is so strong that I am sure our settlement on our lines of communication cannot be protected without more force. I have applied for authority to raise a regiment of 100-days' men. I have also asked General Carleton to aid on the Arkansas and below. It is very important that Colonel Chivington operate with his command on these infernal Indians, and the troops under General Mitchell at Laramie, Cottonwood, and Kearny ought to be brought into service.

I have ordered camps for friendly Indians at Fort Lyon, Fort Larned, and on the Cache la Poudre, and hope all the friendly bands of the Sioux may come to Fort Laramie then, as we whip and destroy, others will join them, and we will bring it to a close. This requires vigorous war, and it can be effected soon. You will please telegraph if you approve of my plan of taking care of the friendly Indians, and of bringing those now hostile in. I inclose copies of letters to show you that this is the program set fourth in my communications last fall, and that it is daily becoming more and more formidable. As we are at home power less but to defend, and almost so even for that purpose, we rely upon you to pour down this hostile alliance of the infernal barbarians. We of course, only having a part of the country involved, cannot, except under your orders, go out to fight the Indians. I appeal to you to consider our situation, and to protect our lines of communication and our settlements by whipping these Indians.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

[Inclosure Numbers 1.]

JUNE 15, 1864.

Robert North, the same who made statement last autumn, now on file, reports that John Notnee, and Arapaho Indian, who was here with him and Major Colley last full, spent the winter on Box Elder. He was mad because he had to give up the stock that he stole from Mr. Van Wormer last fall. He thinks he was with the party who murdered the family on Mr. Van Wormer's ranch and stole the stock in the neighborhood last Saturday, but thinks that the most of the party were Cheyennes and Kiowas. He says that the last-named tribes, and doubtless some of the Comanche tribe, are engaged in the war.

The Cheyennes moved their families to the salt mines (salt plains), on the Cimarron Creek. Their plan is to run their plunder off to the Cimarron, where there is good buffalo hunting they will keep the stock at the salt plains, or those Mexicans who are in alliance with them will run them off to New Mexico. The Minneconjou Sioux have been among the Arapahoes and Cheyennes during the winter, and he saw them. They swore that the whites should not make a road thorough the Yellowstone or Powder River country.

Little Raven, Arapaho chief, advised them, when several were talking of this war last fall, to wait until they got their guns and ammunition. He feels confident that the programme he reported last fall is being carried out now.

He has heard the Indians of several of these tribes talking the matter over, and that they have great confidence that they will drive the whites all out of the country, and take their land back. They

Page 423 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

will not listen to argument. They have been cheated by a few traders and will not listen to reason. That is their claim, and they propose to treat all of the Indians who refuse to join them just as they do the whites. They are now doing their best to get all the Indians combined against the whites.

ROBERT NORTH.

[Inclosure Numbers 2.]

Jack Jones, alias William McGaa, mountaineer and Indian trader, has been in the country for twenty years, living among the Indians all that time has a Sioux half-breed wife and two children says Cheyennes have been familiar at this house for many years. He knows all their leading men they have been depredating on trains of immigrant for eight years, in small banks, for the plunder they took. They have murdered men, and ravished and then murdered women and children in six or eight instances that he knows of. From the accounts of various Indians that the lived with he knows they tell the truth. Some other tribes have joined them, but the Cheyennes have been the ringleaders. This war has been brewing or two or three years, during which time they have been trying to get other tribes to join in an alliance to war on the white settlements. They said the whites had robbed them of their country by settling here, and given them nothing for it, and that they would stand by no treaty, or make on treaty, but wanted their country again. Last October they commanded to gather ammunition, and made a league with the Arapahoes and Sioux, and said they would trade for all they could get, and them plunder for more. The inducements were to get stock, and that they would make the white man's heart bleed, and make him cry teams of blood. He is satisfied that the only way to put a stop to the war is to put strong forces in the field, and pursue them wherever they can be found until they give it up. He says that every successful raid they make by which they get sway with their plunder encourages others to join them from the various tribes. It uniformly has that effect among Indians with them plunder is the inducements. The Cheyennes argue that they will so impoverish the whites that will leave the country.

WM. McGAA.

On this 13th day of June, A. D. 1864, personal appeared before me, John Evans, Governor of Colorado Territory, Jack Jones, alias William McGaa, who, being duly sworn according to law, sayeth that he made and signed the foregoing statement, and that the same is true, to the best of his knowledge and belief.

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Denver, Colo. Tex., June 16, 1864.

Captain EVANS,

Commanding, Camp Collins:

CAPTAIN: Indian hostilities and murders have been committed about 25 or 30 miles east of this city within a few days, and our citizens, particularly in the exposed localities, are much alarmed. Our

Page 424 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

troops have nearly all gone to the Arkansas. If practicable, please to send as large a force of effective men here as you can spare to co-operate with what forces we have left in pursuing the Indians. If you cannot send them here direct please send them to Camp Sanborn and advise me by return mail.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO, Denver, June 16, 1864.

Respectfully forwarded to Captain Evans, commanding Camp Collins, with remark that the assistance requested by Governor the troops can be supplied that they be sent to Camp Sanborn, near Fremont's Orchard, to temporarily relieve the troops stationed at that camp, that they may all be sent in pursuit of the Indians.

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 449 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

DENVER, COLO. TER., June 18, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding Dist. of Colorado, Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter.:

COLONEL: The high water on Cache la Poundre has prevented my arrival here until the present time, and upon examination find my ordnance department in the worst disorder. Captain Robbins on arrival will inform you, if you have not already hear, of the panic and excitement created by the report of Indians advancing on Denver, the mob breaking for the ordnance store-room in a body, demanding the issue of arms, ammunition, &c., which Morgan would not do until ordered by Captain Wanless to open and issued to them the mob at the same time threatening to tear down the building if not supplied. So soon as the doer was opened they crowded in, and quite a number helped themselves. Of some of the issued I find memorandum receipts. i will endeavor to have returned all ordnance taken or issued as soon as possible. The Governor, as near as I can find out, will probably become responsible for the missing property. In this state of things it will be impossible for me to report at Fort Lyon at present, unless you desire it so. As soon as I can straighten matters here I will leave and join you, if then required.

I remain, colonel, very respectfully,

CHARLES C. HAWLEY,

First Lieutenant, Ordnance Officer, Dist. of Colorado.

Volume: XXXIV Series 1, Part IV

Page 458 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

OMAHA CITY, NEBR. TER., June 19, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. of Kansas:

MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose herewith minutes of a council held with Brule and Ogalalla Sioux, June 8, 1864, at Cottonwood Springs, Nebr. Ter. report of spies sent out from Cottonwood Springs, in pursuance of my instructions, into the Cheyenne and Sious country. These papers were forwarded by Major G. M. O'Brien.

I am, major, your very obedient servant,

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General.

[First indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,

Fort Leavernworth, June 25, 1864.

Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant-General of the Army, for information.S. R. CURTIS,Major-General.

[Second indorsement.]

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE, July 7, 1864.

Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.

W. A. NICHOLS,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Third indorsement.]

WAR DEPARTMENT, July 11, 1864.Respectfully referred to Major-General Halleck, Chief of Staff of the Army.

By order of the Secretary of War:

LOUIS H. PELOUZE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

Page 459 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

[Inclosure Numbers 1.]

HEADQUARTERS, Fort Cottonwood, Nebr. Ter., June 8, 1864.

In pursuance [of] an invitation from these headquarters, dated May 31, 1864, the following Indian chiefs reported with their braves to hold a council: O-A-Schu-Cha or Bad Wound, Con-qu-num-pa or Strike, Long Face. Little Thunder authorized Spotted Tail to represent him in council, as he was sick and unable to attend.

BY MAJOR COMMANDING:

Question. Do you propose to remain peaceable?

Answer. We have been peaceable since out treaty, and want to remain so. We will not fight with our white brothers.

Question. In case you had to fight, which side would you take, Cheyenne or white?

Answer. We cannot be forced to fight on either side we do not want to fight the Cheyennes, and will not fight the whites, as the whites could kill all of us. We want to be permitted to live and hunt our game where we can find it, as was stipulated with us in treaty, and in so doing (remaining quiet and hunting) we want protection from our white brothers, as they are more numerous than we are.

The COMMANDER. Then, as you appear to want to remain peaceable, you must keep your people of the Platte Valley road, and not allow them to interfere with emigrants, nor trade with them, but you may visit the road in small numbers and trade for clothing and provisions. You must not remain long on the road in so trading. Also, you must not interfere with stock belonging to white people, in any way. Some of your people have been in the habit of trading for whisky indirectly. This I insist on having stopped, and in case any white man offers to sell our trade you whisky, either directly or indirectly, I require of you, the chiefs and head men, to report such immediately to these headquarters. Also during this war with the Cheyennes you must not get up any war parties against the Pawnees, as it will have a tendency to get you into war with the whites. You are also required to report to these headquarters any hostile movement in the direction of the Platte Valley road, or otherwise, coming within your knowledge.

If you agree to these instructions, I want it distinctly understood that in case you fail to comply with them you will be considered as enemies, like the Cheyennes, and treated accordingly but if you comply you will be considered as friends.

Reply. We agree to all, but want assurance that when you send out soldiers against the Cheyennes that we won't be molested. We are afraid you soldiers will not know us and may take us for hostile Indians and kill us. We also want to be allowed to remain on the south side of the Platte River to hunt our game. We cannot live without game, and there is none in the country north of the Platte, where we are allowed to hunt. We also want a white man with us to show you we intend to do as we have agreed, and in order to prevent us from being attacked by your soldiers, not knowing us. We now are gathering all our people together and will not allow any of them to scatter until this war is over between the whites and Cheyennes. There were some of our young men among the Cheyennes, but we ordered them home. All have now come, except 6 women who are married to Cheyenne men. We have not together 210 lodges and expect some more. We want to be told from time to time what is wanted of us to do. We want our goods distributed to us on the north side of the Platte, about 10 miles above this point, as we are so poor and our horses so few we cannot go to Fort Laramie to receive them. It would not pay us for our trouble, and if we do not go we are afraid you and our white brothers will think we mean to be hostile, which is not the case.

Page 460 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

The COMMANDER. I cannot give you any assurance that your goods will be distributed where you want them, but will recommend it to be done this time however, you must not think that it will be done because I say I will recommend it. The government wants to do what is best for you they (Indians understand Government to mean the white people, acting together as one man) want you to live peaceably among yourselves and with your white brothers. Occasionally you will find foolish and bad white men that may want to make trouble with you. Do not mind them, but report them to these headquarters and they will be punished. I also want to warn you that any of your people found committing any depredation will also be punished, and should you fail to give such as commit any crime up when demanded you will be treated as enemies and punished as white men have been accustomed to punish you-for instance, as Harney treated you.

Reply. We have said we only wanted to know what to do and we would do it. We will do as you have said you want us.

We have some robes and pelts that we want to trade for food and clothes, and want traders allowed to go to our village, situated south of Plum Creek. Our agent, Major Lord, would not let any but one man trade with us, and that man had only a little goods for so many Indians, so we are bad off for many things we were afraid to come on the road, as we heard you would kill us, so we now have ore to trade than we want to bring on the road and want traders.

The COMMANDER. I have no objections for a few good men to go trade with you, providing I can be satisfied these men will not trade you whisky.

By the COMMANDER:

Question. State what you know about the Cheyennes.

Answer. Cheyennes, Arapahoes, Kiowas, and Comanches had a fight with soldiers on Island Wood Creek killed 2 officers and 1 soldier, and wounded 2 more that since died. Cheyennes lost 2 chiefs and 1 brave. Soldiers fought two days, then went south (fighting as they go) to Fort Lyon. There may have been more Indians. Cheyennes have killed 2 ranchmen on the Santa Fe road, and say they will kill all the whites on both the Platte Valley and Santa Fe roads, and we believe they will try to do so. They will fight as long as they can, then go south of the Arkansas River and escape.

Question. What do you think of the Cheyennes in making war on the whites?

Answer. We think they are fools, and will all be killed.

Question. Have you any more to say? I am done.

Answer. We are happy and glad to meet you and shake hands with our white brothers in token of friendship, to show them that our hearts are good. We wanted to come and see you long ago, but were afraid. When we got your invitation it made us all glad. Our wives and children and our head men cried for joy. So now we all shake hands with you as a token of our friendship and good felling.

[Here shaking of hands and, after that, smoking.]

The above is the substance of the conversation. There was much unimportant talk not deemed essential.

WASHINGTON M. HENMAN,

Indian Interpreter.

[Inclosure Numbers 2.]

FORT COTTONWOOD, June 10, 1864.

Major GEORGE M. O'BRIEN, Commanding:

In accordance with instructions from you, delivered on the 2nd instant, to proceed forthwith into the country of the Cheyenne and

Page 461 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

Sioux Indians, and gather all information which would be of service to the Government in regard to impending hostilities between the whites and Cheyennes and other Indians, and, further, to collect a delegation of Indians from the Ogalalla and Brule tribes of Sioux, and bring them to this post for the purpose of holding a council, we herewith make the following report, which is respectfully submitted:

Our course from Fort Cottonwood was due south to Medicine Lake Creek, a distance of 30 miles, to a Sioux village, consisting of 40 lodges, where we secured the services of 3 braves as companions on the scout. From thence down Medicine Lake Creek (southeast) 65 miles, to its confluence with the Republican River thence down the Republican River (east) 40 miles, to a point immediately opposite mouth of Plum Creek (on Platte), where the main Sioux village, consisting of 210 lodges, was found thence north to the Platte, 40 miles thence west 50 miles to Fort Cottonwood. The first day out, between this post and Medicine Lake Creek, we discovered Indians at a distance whose actions were suspicious.

The following day we proceeded down Medicine Lake Creek 30 miles, when we were suddenly surrounded by a party of about 20 Cheyennes, not, however, without us observing them first, but supposed them to be Sioux. Their actions were very hostile, they threatening and at the same time making efforts to kill us, but the interference of our Sioux friends, who assured them that we were not soldiers, but men who had had Sioux wives and lived in the country, saved us. We were allowed to depart, but strictly watched for the following night and day, when we reached the main Sioux village, and were well received, the Sioux expressing their indignation at such treatment to their friends.

We presented your letters of invitation to council to the principal chiefs, and the following day was fixed for their departure to the post. It is the impression of the Sioux generally that the Cheyennes and their allies will attack the settlements on the Platte at an early day, destroying all who may come within their reach, and at the same time supply themselves with horses, arms, and ammunition in order to prosecute the war more vigorously. The hostile Indians are camped on Island Creek, about 50 miles north of Fort Larned, and are supposed to number 1,200 lodges include Cheyennes, Arapahoes, Comanches, and Kiowas. They are generally well armed (the Cheyennes particularly) with good rifles and revolvers. For the past five yards the Cheyennes have been trading revolvers to fight the Pawnees. They procure large quantities of ammunition front he Mexicans on the Arkansas River. They design to divide, half going to the Platte River to destroy ranches, murder immigrants, ant take horses and mules the other half of them doing the same on the Arkansas River. Then, if hard pressed, they will take their plunder and cross the Arkansas River, going south into the Apache and Comanche country. They have their spies out in every direction they are met on the Platte traveling as Sioux, watching the movements of troops, that they may warn their friends of danger. Their scouts are on almost every creek. They are in the Sioux camp and are determined not to be surprised.

The Colorado Battery, in charge of Lieutenant Eayre, is supposed to have reached either Fort Larned or Fort Wise with the loss of only 6 men. When last heard from they were retreating south,

Page 462 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

keeping up a running fight. The large guns are reported to have done no execution, none of the shells having exploded. They were loaded repeatedly with bar lead, cut into small pieces, and fired. The battery corralled on a plateau or high level prairie, 2 miles from water, where the Sioux report hem having fought two days. Were supposed to be short of ammunition. Two Cheyenne chiefs were killed and 1 brave. When the fight commenced runners were dispatched to the camps of the Arapahoes, Kiowas, and Comanche Indians, who were not far off. They have since consolidated. The Sioux were also sent for, but refused to join them. It is reported by many Indians that the Arapahoes also refused to join them. Nothing has been heard from any other expeditions that may be in the country.

ALFRED GAY.

JOHN W. SMITH.

CAMP CONBY, COLO. TER., June 19, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,

Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, Dist. of Colorado, Denver, Colo. Ter.:

SIR: I have the honor to inform you that I arrived at this place at 2 this p. m. I have been on the march ever since I left Denver, at the same time scouting. I sent 50 men under Lieutenant dun out this morning, with three days' rations, as that is as long a time as we can take rations without packing, and we have no saddles. As I am very tired and not well, I will not give detail of march till to-morrow.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

JOE C. DAVIDSON,

Captain, First Cavalry of Colorado.

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Page 476 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

KANSAS CITY, June 20, 1864.

(Received 1.45 p. m.)]

ADJUTANT-GENERAL:

I have just crossed the plains and am sure, from authentic information, that an expense Indian war is about to take place between the whites and the Cheyennes, Kiowas, and a band of Arapahoes. It can be prevented by prompt management.

H. D. WALLEN,

Major Seventh Infantry.

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HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 20, 1864.

Captain J. C. DAVIDSON,

Firt Cavalry of Colorado:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your report of the 19th instant, and have noted its contents. From the facts therein set forth, and the fact that your horses must be pretty well used up, and also from fact that our telegraphic communication with department headquarters is interrupted, and probably will be for three or four days, I consider that it will be better for you to halt your command and await orders. You will select a camp where there is good grass, as near your present encampment as practicable, and remain a few days or until orders are received, which may give time enough for your stock to pick up. Where is Camp Canby?

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

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Page 495 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 21, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding District of Colorado:

SIR: I herewith inclose copy of a letter received from Captain W. H. Evans, Company F, Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in reference to the movement of two detachments of his command.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

Page 496 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

[Inclosure.]

CAMP COLLINS, COLO. TER., June 20, 1864.

His Excellency Governor EVANS:

SIR: I had the honor of receiving yours of June 16 last night, and in compliance with your request I have sent a detachment of 25 men of Company F, Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in charge of Lieutenant James W. Hanna, to Camp Sanborn, and will send 25 men, under charge of Orderly Sergt. W. H. Sellers, to Denver, leaving here this evening. They will camp at Big Thompson until to-morrow evening. Should the detachment of men under charge of Orderly W. H. Sellers not be required at Denver you can send a messenger immediately with such orders as you may deem necessary.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. H. EVANS,

Captain Company F, Seventh Ohio Cavalry.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 21, 1864.

Captain W. H. EVANS,

Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of yours of the 20th instant, inclosing one of His Excellency Governor Evans, a copy of which has been furnished to these headquarters by the Governor. As there is no immediate necessity for more troops at these headquarters, I would respectfully suggest that the 25 men referred to in your letter to the Governor as being now en route for Denver be ordered to report to the lieutenant in command of detachment sent to Camp Sanborn.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Page 497 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

HEADQUARTERS NORTHWESTERN INDIAN EXPEDITION, Above Fort Pierre, Camp Numbers 14, June 21, 1864.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,

Department of the Northwest:

SIR: On my arrival here I found a camp of about 200 or 300 lodges of Sioux they were a mixture of all the upper bands of Upper Sioux, Yanktonais, Two Kettles, Blackfeet, Minnecounjuous, Sans Arkcs, and Burles, also the warlike Uncpapas. They tell me they have come in agree ably to my treaty, to show that they are friends and to receive their annuity goods that the rest of their bands have declared war against the whites, and that they are now united, about 1,800 lodges, or some 6,000 warriors, ready to give me battle, about three days' march west of the Missouri from the mouth of Heart River that they are willing to make peace with me, provided I will quit the country and pay for the buffalo that have been killed by whites and for the wood consumed by steam-boats.

This information I also receive from scouts that I have. I therefore anticipate quite a serious engagement before I reach the Yellowstone. If I can succeed in giving these Indians a severe punishment, I think I will succeed in breaking the spirit of all the Indians now disposed to be hostile to the whites. They are perfectly aware, as well as our Government is, that his is their last hope that if we succeed they will not have one foothold that they can claim their own, and that the whites, who are now coming into their country, will overrun it and I have no doubt but that they will fight desperately.

The Indians that I have met here in council, though professing friendship, I have my doubts of they are ready to take either side according to the success of my expedition, and there are many more now out who are waiting to see the result of my operations.

With much respect, your obedient servant,

ALFRED SULLY,

Brigadier-General.

[Indorsement.]

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Page 512 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Denver, Colo. Ter., June 22, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Commanding Department:

SIR: I have information from various reliable parties, received since my last, of the running off of stock at different points on the line of our settlements from the Arkansas to the Platte River. I inclose copy of letter, which is from a most reliable man 130 miles down the Platte, which is a sample of and in correspondence with the other reports. All these hostile bands, as my scouts, from having followed their trail as far as safe in that direction, and every other report received corroborates, run to the headwaters of the Republican, where they doubtless have a hiding place or camp of protection against pursuit. I had supposed that the information I have given you was sufficient to satisfy you that this Indian war is no myth but a terrible reality to a community situated as we are, so exposed and so far from our base of supplies, with a scarcity of subsistence already.

OFFICIAL RECORDS: Page 513 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.

But your suggestions to Superintendent Lane, which he has communicated to me, leave me to doubt your realization of what I am so thoroughly convinced of now, and of which I have been troubling you so often. I am quite sure that the Minnesota horrors have only been spared a re-enactment by the timely notice we have had of this hostile alliance. A part of the evidence on file in my office, and which has been forwarded to Washington and Saint Louis last winter, was not sent you as I supposed what I did send, with assurance of my confidence in it, would be sufficient. The carrying out of the plan then proposed, as reported in my letter of the 28th day of May, satisfies me that the Indians mean war, and I again respectfully ask that Colonel Chivington may be ordered to put forces after the hostile Indians from this side that forces also be sent after them from the Kansas frontier, which is exposed that General Mitchell properly guard the line on the Platte River and overland stage route, for which I understand he has sufficient forces, and then chastise and bring to terms these formidable foes. The Indians are doubtless co-operating with some Mexicans referred to in accompanying papers to my letters of the 28th of May and 16th instant, on the Cimarron and Red Rivers.

If you have evidence that my information of Indian hostilities and alliances for war are not well founded, I shall be most happy to be informed of it yes, to satisfy me that I am mistaken will be the greatest favor you can confer upon me and the people of Colorado generally. But how any evidence can disprove the facts which are furnished I am at a loss to perceive, and how the multiplied and numerous assurances from friendly Indians, Indian traders, and people who suffer, and our troops, who have had several engagements with them, being attacked in nearly every instance, can fail to prove out dangers, I am at a loss to understand. I write earnestly, for until my interview with Mr. Lane I had no suspicions that you in any way doubted the assurances of our danger. As requested, I shall from time to time furnish you with such reliable evidence only of either danger or its absence as may come to my knowledge.

In the mean time, general, believe me to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

[Inclosure.]

AMERICAN RANCH, COLO. TER., June 14, 1864.

His Excellency JOHN EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory:

DEAR SIR: Having finally become uneasy at the repeated presence of Indians near my place, I have thought proper to inform you of the fact. I speak from personal observation, as I have been disposed to think the principal part of the seeing of Indians within 3 or 4 miles of here the result of frightened imagination. So yesterday started out, thinking to kill an antelope. When about 3 miles from home, suddenly was about 16 Indians riding furiously toward me. I immediately started for home, they pursuing and firing upon me repeatedly but having a good horse, I made my escape unharmed.

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Page 514 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

I think if there were troops stationed along the road it would give a feeling of greater security to both settlers and emigrants. Our lives and property appear to be in great danger.

Hoping you will think of this, I remain, very respectfully, yours,

WM. A. KELLEY,

American Ranch, Colo. Ter.

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OMAHA, NEBR. TER., June 26, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

A. A. G., Dept. of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth, Kans.:

Sioux attacked a party cutting hay near Pawnee Agency on night of 24th killed and wounded 4 persons. Captain David, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, is in pursuit whit his company. I start west to-morrow, and shall probably get after the Indians somewhere on my line.

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General.

OMAHA, June 26, 1864.

Major JOHN S. WOOD, Fort Kearny, Nebr. Ter.:

Look out for paries of Sioux going south. It is thought that those that committed the outrages at Pawnee will pass south via Kearny.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, June 26, 1864.

Major GEORGE M. O'BRIEN, Cottonwood Springs, Nebr. Ter.:

Have a gun squad organized from your dismounted men under command of Captain O'Brien. There are four mountain howitzers here. they will be sent west to-morrow.

By command of General Mitchell:

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

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Page 575 Chapter XLVI. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION

FORT LEAVENWORTH, June 27, 1864.

Brigadier-General McKEAN,

Paola, Kans.:

Major McKenny has returned and reports from Larned. A stockade and 25 men under Lieutenant Clar, Seventh Iowa, holds Salina. At Smoky Fork he erected block-house and left Lieutenant Ellsworth with 40 men. At Walnut Creek, 40 miles this side Larned, commenced stone fort, and left Captain Dunlap with 45 men, Fifteenth Kansas. At Larned directed a field-work and gave general directions to escort stages. Indians generally quiet, but the Cheyennes preparing for mischief. Later news of a fight with escort between Larned and Lyon, in which 6 Indians were killed and 2 of our men wounded.

The major thinks some sort of defensive work should be made at or near Cow Creek, on old Santa Fe road. I had also ordered a block-house at Council Grove, but for want of axes they have done nothing. Forces coming from Colorado are at Fort Lyon. When they get through to Larned and Walnut Creek matters there will be strong. A good commander of that region must be arranged. Captain Parmetar, at Larned, must be immediately disposed of.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

PAOLA, KANS., June 27, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Fort Leavenworth Kans.:

I authorized Captain Dodge, at Council Grove, to purchase tools to build with, and he has probably done so by this time. I have been considering for some time past the matter of another commander at Larned, but have not one that I would like to send their that could be spared from here. It is an important point.

THOS. J. McKEAN,

Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding District.

Page 576 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

FORT LYON, COLO, TER., June 27, 1864.

Lieutenant H. L. ROCKWELL,

Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, Military Dist. of Colorado:

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to transmit, for the information of the colonel commanding, the following report of all the information I could gain by means of scouts, thrown over toward the border of Texas, in the neighbood of the Cimarron and Red Rivers, in regard to the movements of an enemy in the direction of Texas:

The first scouting party that left this post for that purpose under my orders started on the 16th of May, 1864, was gone eight days and returned, bringing no information whatever.

The next, 6th of June, reached a point north of Cimarron crossing, finding a train of wagons that had been attacked by a party of men, numbering about 30, from which they had taken 70 head of mules and &10,000 in money, taking whit the mules the harness, the singletrees, and fifth chains, all this occurring about the 26th day of May, 1864. The marauding party had evidently departed from the scene of their depredation in a southwesterly direction. Since the above-mentioned depredations, various rumors being circulated of the approach of a large body of Texans, I have kept scouting parties constantly out the last report being on the 26th of June, 1864, from Lieutenant Oster, First Cavalry of Colorado, commanding detachment of 15 men on scout.

He left this post June 7, 1864, proceeded to Bent's old fort, 35 miles west of Fort Lyon, crossed the Arkansas River, and traveled southeast 116 miles crossed the Cimarron, and from thence proceeded 65 miles due south. He was then forced to return 25 miles and traveled nearly due west 60 miles struck a trail leading due west, which crossed Rabbit Ear Creek 50 miles south of the Santa Fe road. Here he found evidences of some horses and mules having passed toward the west within a space of ten days. Having but three day's rations remaining he was obliged to return, travelling northeast 70 miles crossing the Cimarron 15 miles to this post. The distance traveled, 464 miles time, 17 days miles traveled per day, 27 5\17.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

I am, with respect, your obedient servant

,EW. W. WYNKOOP,

Major First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding Post.

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WAR DEPARTMENT, June 28, 1864-12 noon.

Major-General CURTIS, Leavenworth:

Please inform me immediately what number of troops you have in you command, and whether in you judgment more are required. If more are required, state what number, and whether they can be raised in your department. It will be impossible to send any from other departments.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

LEAVENWORTH, KANS., June 28, 1864.

(Received 12 m., 29th.)

Major General H. W. HALLECK:

Last stage coming in attacked between Lyon and Larned by Indians. They were repulsed by me escort, and several Indians killed. Have erected field-works and block-houses at stations, and distributed force to guard stages and Santa Fe trains. Last Saturday Sioux attacked citizens on Platte Fork, near Pawnee Reservation, killing 4 persons. A company whit mountain howitzers in pursuit. Am trying to avoid Indian war, which they seem anxious to inaugurate. Rebels are coming from Arkansas and collecting in Missouri border. Steam-boats passing are generally hailed and inferred upon, but high water favors escape. Last week General McKean assisted with 300 militia will co-operate.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

OMAHA, NEBR. TER., June 28, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

A. S. G., Dept. of Kans., Fort Leavenworth, Kans.:

The telegram of yesterday of major-general commanding was received subsequent to General Mitchell's departure. General Mitchell contemplated no extensive expedition, as the has not the troops. Intelligence just received of the taking by Indians, between Julesburg and Fort Laramie, of all of the mules from a train of thirty wagons.

Respectfully,

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, Fort Leavenworth, June 29, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

En route, Santa Fe Road:

DEAR COLONEL: I suppose you have reached Fort Lyon some days since, and I trust you are a check to all further robbery by Indians in that region. One of my aides, Major McKenny, has just returned from Larned, giving full reports of matters in that region. The affair of Lieutenant Eayre's is not so well reported. The force is said to have been scattered, and the Indians reporting the matter on the Platte say his shells did not burst and the Indians are not afraid of them. I wish we could locate a force between Lyon and Larned. At Lyon and every other point where troops are stationed I require some sort of structure to be erected that will resist an assault by Indians-a block-house, an embanked fieldwork in some form of a redoubt, or a stone wall inclosure, according to the location of streams and the material most convenient for construction. Some work has been commenced at Larned which must be fully carried out.

You will come forward with your main force to Saline, or to Council Grove, reporting by letter, and leaving detachments where they seem necessary. If the Indians are actually arrayed against us in a war party, you will of course attend to them, but a good company or two, with two howitzers well attended, is no doubt sufficient to pursue and destroy any band of Indians likely to congregate anywhere on the plains, and it is bad economy to divert needless numbers in pursuit of Indians. You must also restrain your troops in the chase after buffalo, an amusement which breaks down stock and lays marches. Captain McLain is now at Lawrence, with full battery equipments, awaiting the arrival of his company at Council Grove. Two pieces of artillery are probably enough at Larned, and one or two pieces may be left at Walnut Creek, where a stone fort is being built. One or two should also be stationed at Saline, where a stockade has been erected. If, when you reach Larned, you find the drunken captain still in command, see that he is immediately relieved, superseded, or arrested. If you have a competent major to take charge of that and surrounding posts, it will be well to give him a temporary command, reporting to Brigadier-General McKean, Paola, and also to me at this place.

There must be a station at or near Cabin Creek, on the old Santa Fe road, some distance this side of Larned. There is now a stage station there, but Major McKenny thinks more timber may be found a few miles this side of the present house. A block-house. A block-house, or something that would resist Indian assault, should be erected there. I hope this may meet you in time to give it your careful attention. Letters from Larned give many reports of Indian barbarities, which are not authenticated. I desire that you will give me careful reports.

I have no reports of further mischief near Denver since about the 10th instant, when some barbarities were committed, as you no doubt learned, within 10 or 20 miles of that city. Some murders were recently committed by Sioux below Fort Kearny, on the Platte, and this morning it is reported that all the mules of a train were taken between Julesburg and Leavenworth (probably Laramie) by Indians. I have not a word from you since your telegraphic announce-

Page 596 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter XLVI.

ment (I think on the 8th) of your leaving Denver to join your commend en route. News from Grant about middling. He is pressing hard on Petersburg.

Respectfully and truly, yours,

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Denver, Colo. Ter., June 29, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding District of Colorado:

SIR: I inclose for your consideration the following copy of a letter received from Uriah M. Curtis, special messenger to the Indians of the plains.

Your obedient servant,

JOHN EVANS,

Governor of colorado Territory.

[Inclosure.]

DENVER, June 28, 1864.

JOHN EVANS,

Gov. Colo. Ter. and ex officio Supt. Indian Affairs:DEAR

SIR: During the last few days I have received reliable information that the Indians of the plains are combining together for the purpose of waging war against the whites of Colorado and the immigration. I have also information from Mr. Jones that there is a heavy force of Sioux and Cheyennes on Powder River. Their intention, as near as information can be obtained, is to commence depredations on the North Platte and not to unstrung the bow until the country is cleared of the whites. Nothing further.

Your obedient servant,

URIAH M. CURTIS.