July 1864
Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 53 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Fort Leavenworth, July 5, 1864.
His Excellency JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado:
DEAR GOVERNOR: Your favor of the 22nd,* written after seeing Indian Agent Lane, and apparently under an apprehension that I did not concur in the views expressed by you as to a great Indian combination for war purposes, is just received. I have received reports from the Arkansas River and from the Platte Conservatory of the testimony you have given me as to efforts on the part of the Cheyennes, Sioux, and some of the Kiowas to unite in war measures against the whites, and I have abundant reason to know that small parties have so united and committed hostilities near Denver, on the Platte, and on the Arkansas. I may not have all you have seen and heard, but I am sure I have a great deal on the subject which you have not seen nor heard, and I am obliged to Your Excellency for all the intelligence which you have sent me. All my forces have been on the alert and doing all in their power to prevent and chastise as the circumstances seem to require. While prepared for the worst as far as possible we may not exhaust our efforts in pursuit of rumors, and I, therefore, request you to send me telegraphic information of outrages which were fully ascertained. I am scarce of horses everywhere, and cannot too cautiously avoid waste in this branch of the service. Without any further reports from you in response to my dispatch, I hope the pursuit of the murdering bands near Denver which occurred about one mouth ago concluded for the present the villainy there, and I hope your militia will aid what remains of the Federal troops in keeping matters as quiet as possible. It would take a great deal more force than we now have to insure our wide scattered settlements in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Kansas, where these hostilities have been committed. All my conversation with Agent Lane was intended to express to him and through him to you that however much we may have reason to apprehend a general Indian war we should not conclude them as such a thing in actual existence before doing all in our power to prevent such a disaster. It was not demonstrated by the report then before me. But be it a great or small matter, we would be culpable if we did not do all in our power to suppress it, for the greatest Indian forces I have felt with my scouts are south and near the Arkansas River. I am therefore fortifying, concentrating in that quarter. General Mitchell is alive in Nebraska, where a few Sioux have been found. If you have your militia in hand, even to a small number, I trust my Federal troops, united with them, will do
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*See Vol. XXXIV, Part IV, p. 512.
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Page 54 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
all that can be done to guard the settlements. I telegraphed Colonel Chivington, on the report of your first dispatch concerning the murder of families near Denver, to immediately send force in pursuit, which you are aware was immediately done. I have not yet had full reports but have followed up that dispatch with similar instructions. I assure you, Governor, that I shall do all in my power to aid in suppressing Indian hostilities.
I remain, very truly, your obedient servant,
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,
Denver, July 5, 1864.
Major C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Kansas:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report for the information of the major-general commanding the department that I have just returned from
Page 55 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter.
There are now at that post, and on the road between there and Fort Larned, nine companies of my regiment. I have a camp seventy miles down the Arkansas River from Lyon, and have troops almost constantly on the road below that to within thirty or forty miles of Larned. I have had the country scouted for a distance of 300 miles south of the river, and there are no Texans or other rebel forces there. The band who attacked and robbed that Mexican train I am satisfied were from New Mexico or Arizona, and knew all about the parties owning it, and its unprotected condition. At any rate, they fled in the direction of New Mexico. The Cheyennes and Kiowas are stealing and robbing. Have attacked the coach twice recently forty or fifty mules above Larned. They are now principally south of the Arkansas River. I would have routed them from there before this, but could not cross the river, there being no ferry ont he river, and it being out of its banks for weeks past. Have a boat at Lyon, which will be running in a few days. Will then cross troops and subsistence to south side and make them suffer for their temerity. Their policy seems to be to keep their families and stock on the Cimarron and other tributaries of the Arkansas, south side, and send out parties to kill and steal on Smoky Hill, Republican, and Platte. My judgment is that the only way to conquer a peace is to follow them to their settlements and there chastise them. I have kept two companies up here, one on the Platte, and the other on the headwaters of the Smoky Hill, to keep them from coming in on our settlements while the troops are after them below. Does this meet the approbation of the major-general commanding? I shall go again to Lyon and below there in a week or two.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 79 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, July 7, 1864.
Colonel CHIVINGTON,
Denver:
Have sent messenger to Lyon with orders and instructions. If you cannot come through with part of the force as directed some discreet commander should proceed to Larned and report immediately. Keep what howitzers you now have in Colorado, with a proper garrison there. What further news of Indian troubles near mountains or near Denver?
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Page 110 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., July 10, 1864.
Captain W. D. McLAIN,
Independent Battery Colorado Volunteer Artillery:
CAPTAIN: I have been detained on this district by order of Colonel Chivington, and ordered to organize and drill G squadron, First Cavalry of Colorado, as a battery. It is very necessary that I should go to my company, as my accounts are unsettled, and I am very anxious to settle them. I have just returned from Garland with two howitzers which were left there. Upon my arrival at this post I found that Lieutenant Burdsal had gone to For Larned with the command. He took with him all property for which I am responsible and would not receipt to me for the same. He was in command of the battery by order of Major Wynkoop. Please use your influence and try to get me ordered from here that I amy join the battery. In haste.
I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
HORACE W. BALDWIN,
Second Lieutenant Independent Battery Colorado Vol. Arty.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 141 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.- UNION.
FORT KEARNY, July 11, 1864.
General CURTIS:
I think it advisable to established a new post in the vicinity of Julesburg for the protection of the stage line, emigrants, and freighters westward. The Indians are stealing stock in that locality to such an extent as will eventually prevent all supplies going to the mountains. I also think it advisable to change post commanders at Fort Laramie, and if possible I would like to have a captain and assistant quartermaster assigned there. I think it would be a great saving to the Government.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding District.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 167 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT COLORADO TERRITORY,
Denver, July 12, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Commanding District of Colorado:
SIR: I herewith inclose for your information copy of a letter received from Brigadier-General Mitchell also copy of a letter received from Brigadier-General Carleton, commanding Department of New Mexico.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory.
[Inclosure Numbers 1.]
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW MEXICO,
Santa Fe, N. Mex., June 26, 1864.
His Excellence JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado, Denver City, Colo. Ter.:
DEAR SIR: Your letter of the 16th instant was handed to me by Captain Benjamin C. Cutler, assistant adjutant-general last evening. I regret to hear that the Indians in Colorado are becoming hostile. Your Excellency perhaps may not have heard that we are now in the midst of active operations against the numerous hordes of Apaches in Arizona, and that nearly all the available force in the department is now occupied in that campaign or in conducting captive Navajo Indians from their native country to the Bosque Redondo, on the Pecos River, a distance of more than 300 miles, or in guarding nearly 7,000 of their captives at Fort Sumner and at Fort Canby. A short time since a band of guerrillas robbed some trains upon the Cimarron River and I have troops in pursuit of them from Fort Union and from Fort Bascom. I mention these matters to show how the small number of men now under my command are employed. But when we were menaced and in trouble you came to help us, and you may be sure that should you need our assistance we will respond to your calls as far as possible to the last man that can be spared. I will try to get some more troops to Fort Union at the earliest practicable moment, and will help you all we can. Be of good cheer, for if Colorado and New Mexico join in hostilities against the Utes I believe by the end of next winter we could bring them to such a state as to make any other campaign unnecessary. It would be well to avoid a collision until the snow falls, if possible. The winter time is the most favorable for operations against Indians, as then no time is lost in trailing, and they soon become exhausted of supplies, and being embarrassed by their families cannot so well elude pursuit. Of course a war with that or any other tribe is to be avoided altogether
Page 168 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
if possible. When it is commenced it should be commenced because they have been the aggressors and are clearly in the wrong. In this case the punishment should be very severe. I mention these matters to before war is resorted to. Then if we must have war in spite of our efforts, Colorado and New Mexico united may make it a war which they will remember.
I am very respectfully, Your Excellency's obedient servant,
JAMES H. CARLETON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
[Inclosure Numbers 2.]
FORT KEARNY, NEBR. TER., July 4, 1864.
His Excellency JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory:
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of three communications with accompanying inclosures from you, calling my attention to the Indian depredations along the line of the Platte River. I am aware of the existing troubles along this line from personal knowledge obtained while at Cottonwood Springs a few weeks ago, and scouts sent out for that purpose. I am at present on my way out along the route in order that I may better understand the existing difficulties, and render all the assistance possible with the limited, means at my disposal. I have made application to department headquarters for more troops, but have been unable to get any. Perhaps it would be well for you to make a similar request, as it is impossible for me with the troops under my command and my instructions from department headquarters to more than protect the main line of communication with the West. You can rest assured I will gladly do anything in my power to render the route to Colorado safe, but I have not the troops with which to establish more forts at present. The Indians encamped on the Republican are not in my district, but in the District of North Kansas. I had intended collecting as many troops as possible and conducting an expedition against the Indians depredating along the line, but orders received from department headquarters at the moment of leaving Omaha forced me wholly upon the defensive and along the main line. I had thought that by weakening the posts long enough to strike the Indians at their camps or wherever found, would be a better mode of protection than by simply occupying the lines. I am satisfied there will be more or less trouble with the Indians during the summer, but think it will be confined to petty depredations committed by strolling bands and not by any combined efforts of the Indians in this district. I have had a consultation with the Ogallala and Brule Sioux, they pledging themselves not to molest the whites, and that if they were forced into the trouble by the other Indians they would assist the whites against the Arapahoes, Cheyennes, and Kiowas. I am satisfied that their protestations of friendship can, for the present at least, be trusted.
I am, Governor, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding District of Nebraska.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 209 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH KANSAS,
Fort Leavenworth, July 15, 1864.
Major C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General:
SIR: I have the honor to report to the major-general commanding Department of Kansas that I would recommend that that portion of Kansas west of the western line of Marion, Eldorado, Dickinson, Clay, and Washington Counties be made into a sub-district either attached to the District of North or South Kansas, with headquarters at Saline. The matter I know has met the favorable consideration of the general commanding. I have also to report that I am informed by an officer conversant with matters in that section of the country that the Indians, the Cheyennes, Arapahoes, and Comanches, complain of the Government allowing hunters to kill their buffalo by the thousands for the hides and tallow, which they claim is contrary to treaty stipulations and repeated promises made to them. They are quite willing that
14 R R-VOL XLI, PT IIPage 210 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
buffalo shall be killed by any one for meat only, and will aid any one who wishes them to do so for that purpose. I would respectfully request whether the sub-district be made or not, that a department order be made prohibiting all persons from hunting buffalo, except for meat, in Kansas west of the line heretofore named. It is reported to me that at least 100 men in Saline make a living by killing the buffalo for the hides and tallow, and that the order proposed would settle all hostilities, as they are not so much against the Government as against the hunters.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. A. DAVIES,
Brigadier-General, Commanding District of North Kansas.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 218 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Fort Leavenworth, July 16, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Commanding District of Colorado, Denver, Colo.:
COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 5th instant, inclosing copy of report of Major E. W. Wynkoop, commanding directs me to say that the scout must have extended far beyond department lines, and is therefore disapproved. The troops were needed at Larned, where the Indians were in actual hostile attitude. Commanders of other departments should be advised requested to attend to the matter.
I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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*For Wynkoop's report, see Vol. XXXIV, Part IV, p. 576
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 256 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
DENVER, July 18, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
I have reliable information of a large said by hostile Indians on the overland route last night between the Junction and American Ranch,100 miles east of this place. Several bands left Fort Laramie about two weeks ago for this purpose, as we are informed by friendly Indians. Three persons killed and a great number of horses and mules stolen.
JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado.
Page 257 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE,ETC.- UNION.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT COLORADO TERRITORY, Denver, July 18, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Commanding District of Colorado:
SIR: I am informed authoritatively that the Ute Indians, or a band of them, are preparing to make an attack upon the settlements at Conejos, in the San Luis Valley. Agent Head requests that the camp there be strengthened to at least twenty men, which I hope you will be able to do.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 276 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
COTTONWOOD, July 19, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
The Indians cleaning out the valley above Julesburg. Had a fight at Holly Station this morning 3 o'clock. Indians are moving down the valley toward Julesburg in force. I am leaving here this morning with two companies of cavalry and one section of artillery to meet them.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
COTTONWOOD, July 19, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
Can I have permission to raise 200 100-days' men from the ranchmen along this line? They all understand the Indian character and the country, and are accustomed to fighting Indians. I can raise them in ten days,and have them in the field with their own horses and arms. Reply at Julesburg.
R. B. MITCHELL,
Commanding.
OMAHA, July 19, 1864.
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,
Department of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas:
From tenor of dispatches received here, the Indians appear to be in great force on the North Platte, committing depredations. Just received a dispatch from Colonel Summers, commanding Fort Kearny, stating that the Governor of Colorado had called for help. General Mitchell started west from Fort Kearny he has endeavored to confer with him, but the communication is cut off. Colonel Summers has
Page 277 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE,ETC.- UNION.
called for the only mounted company in this vicinity, which I have ordered, he deeming a conflict imminent. The dismounted cavalry (two companies) gone to Kearny. If deemed necessary and ordered, I will press sufficient horses to mount them.
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, July 19, 1864.
Brigadier-General MITCHELL,
Cottonwood, Nebr. Ter.:
Your order anticipated. Captain Murphy ordered. Colonel Summers fears trouble. Governor of Colorado asks for help. Depredations committed above and below Laramie. I have telegraphed state of affairs to General Curtis, so as to keep him informed.
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, July 19, 1864.
Colonel S. W. SUMMERS,
Fort Kearny:
If possible, confer with General Mitchell,and if deemed necessary I will press enough horses to mount Nebraska battalion. Send messenger to Plum Creek and find out state of affairs. If you want more troops, let me know at once and it can be arranged.
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
SPECIAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA, No. 64.
Omaha, July 19, 1864.
Captain E. B. Murphy, Company A, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, is relieved from command at Dakota City, Nebr. Ter.,and will march his company to Fort Kearny, Nebr. Ter., via Omaha, without a moment's delay.
By command of Brigadier General Robert B. Mitchell:
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 302 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, July 20, 1864.
Brigadier General R. B. MITCHELL,
Omaha City:
Governor's call for militia would be more speedy and proper. I have no authority for such a call. Order Collins with most of his force down to Fremont's Orchard and Camp Collins. Make the overland stage route as secure as possible. Confer with Governor Evans, who ought to move his militia in the same way. Direct all your cavalry to be armed, and, horses or no horses, let them move up to take care of posts. Stop any trains that seem to be going into danger. Keep me posted as to your movements and the facts relating to Indians.
S. R. CURTIS,Major-General.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, July 20, 1864.
Governor JOHN EVANS,
Denver:
General Mitchell is moving up the valley, and I have directed Collins to move down from Laramie, so as to increase forces at Fremont's Orchard and Camp Collins. Keep me advised. Strike with your militia.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 314 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Lawrence, July 21, 1864.
General FISK,
Saint Joseph:
Loyal companies forming near Leavenworth can share our arms and ammunition, but we have few or none to spare, as Kansas troops are being rapidly raised and we must arm them in preference. If another rebel force rises on your side all my guns will be immediately placed in loyal hands to help you. I am troubled with Indians, and feeling certain the bushwhackers are completely routed near the border I am going to look after the western portion of my command.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 323 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.
JUNCTION RANCH, July 21, 1864.
Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, District of Colorado:
SIR: I arrived at this point last night from Beaver Creek, where I had been with a detachment of my company. I found Lieutenant Chase here. He had succeeded in taking back most of the stock taken from Bijou Ranch and along the river, and drove them in. The Indians followed them and came in and killed most of the cattle belonging to Mr. Murray and then dashed down on a train and killed one man named Simon Gouldsberry. There were about 100 Indians in the party doing this mischief. We have here now fifty effective men, and our horses are nearly fagged out, having traveled about 150 miles in thirty-six hours. A few days will put most of them in traveling condition, however. I shall remain on the Platte River and try and have a fight with the Indians, or at least stop their thieving.
I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant,
GEO. L. SANBORN,
Captain, First Cavalry of Colorado.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 348 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, COLORADO TERRITORY,
Denver, July 22, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON:
DEAR SIR: I have reliable information that the settlements on the Purgatoire River are much exposed to Indian depredations and apprehensive of difficulty from the Ute Indians, who are said to be much dissatisfied. If practicable you will please station a force at such place as may be proper to render the protection asked for. This will be handed to headquarters by Mr. Walker, deputy U. S. marshal, who will explain more fully the necessity of this case.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 368 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS- MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
In the Field, Fort Riley, July 23, 1864.
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Washington:
The Indian difficulties west of this point are serious, and I have come here to rally a force on the border fifty miles west of Salina for the purpose of suppressing the mischief. The stages not coming through we have not definite intelligence. We only know they have run off our stock from Larned and Walnut Creek, murdering some men,and small parties of Indians have come within thirty miles of the place. I have ordered the quartermaster at this post to buy horses to mount dismounted cavalry, and requested militia colonels to call out 700 militia to join me. In this way I hope to raise 1,000 men. I go over to Salina to- morrow. I think stealing stock is the main object of the Indians.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major- General.
Page 369 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.- UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
In the Field, Fort Riley, July 23, 1864.
Major C. S. CHARLOT,
Fort Leavenworth:
Issue order creating District of upper Arkansas, bonded as follows: North by the second standard parallel as laid down on Gunn & Mitchell's new map of Kansas east by guide meridian east south by the Indian Territory and west by a meridian including Fort Lyon. Assign General Blunt to the command. I get nothing very definite from the west. The stage due yesterday has not arrived. I am collecting forces, militia and volunteers, at Salina to act further in opening the way and suppressing difficulties. Tell General Drake to send this 100- days' men back to Council Grove as soon as they are mustered and equipped. All well.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major- General.
SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS,
FORT RILEY, July 23, 1864.
Numbers 1.I. Captain Dodge, Ninth Wisconsin Battery, commanding at Council Grove, will send one piece of artillery, and sufficient men to use it, in command of a lieutenant, and also all the well men of Captain Booth's cavalry, by the shortest and best route to Salina, where I will hope to meet them tomorrow night. See that ammunition and rations in haversacks be supplied. Keep remaining troops and militia on the alert and send me your latest news of Indian troubles at Larned.
II. Lieutenant James R. McClure, quartermaster at Fort Riley, Kans., will immediately purchase a sufficient number of horses to mount all the available troops at that post that are without horses the amount to be paid for such horses not to exceed form $145 to $150 per head.
III. The acting commissary of subsistence at Fort Riley will issue rations to the militia actually on duty, passing this post for the purpose of suppressing the Indian troubles at Salina and Larned.
IV. The commanding officer at Fort Riley will issue to Captain Booth, Company L, Eleventh Kansas Volunteer Cavalry, what ordnance and ordnance stores he may require for his command and take his official receipt for the same.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major- General.
Page 370 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS- MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
JULESBURG, July 23, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
All my cavalry, mounted and dismounted, are in the field, except part of one company. From information gained from what I consider a reliable source there are within seventy miles of Fort Laramie 1,000 lodges of Missourias and Sioux, all hostile. I will go to Laramie as fast as possible and make the very best position possible.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 378 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
ABILENE, July 24, 1864.
(Via Lawrence 26th.)
Colonel C. S. CHARLOT:
Further dispatches from the region of Larned show that Indians have attacked our trains and destroyed large amount of stores on
Page 379 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.- UNION.
Santa Fe road also that they are murdering the whites wherever found. Militia collecting to aid me in attacking the Indians, but they gather slowly. All well.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General
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Page 396 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS- MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
GENERAL ORDERS,
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, Numbers 41.
Fort Leavenworth, July 25, 1864.
The District of the Upper Arkansas is hereby created, bounded as follows: North by the second standard parallel as laid down on Gunn and Mitchell's nw map of Kansas, east by the guide meridian east, south by the Indian Territory, and west by a meridian including Fort Lyon. Major General James G. Blunt, U. S. Volunteers,is assigned to the command.
By command of Major-General Curtis:
C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 413 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
In the Field, Salina, Kans., July 26, 1864.General H. W. HALLECK:
The stage has just arrived from Larned. The damage done by Indians amounts to 10 teamsters killed, 3 wounded (2 of the scalped), and the stealing of about 300 head of cattle. Our posts all safe.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 428 Chapter LIII. LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI.
GENERAL FIELD ORDERS,
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, Numbers 1.
In the Field, Fort Ellsworth, July 27, 1864.
I. The troops assembled in this campaign of the upper Arkansas will be organized and in line of battle form as follows: First, regiment of volunteer militia, Colonel Price, on the right second, right section Ninth Wisconsin Battery, Lieutenant Edington third, Colonel Scott's regiment volunteer militia fourth, all the U. S. Volunteers, forming a battalion under Captain Booth, on the left. Firing in camp will be avoided.
II. Hunters will be detailed for killing game, but the troops must not scatter and break down stock to chase buffalo. Indians at was with us will be the object of our pursuit and destruction, but women and children must be spared. All horses, ponies, and property taken will be placed in charge of Quartermaster P. Z. Taylor, who will have it properly collected, or sent back to safe places for future disposition. This is necessary to prevent the accumulation of useless baggage.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
OMAHA, July 27, 1864.Major CHARLOT:
Following just received:Lieutenant J. A. WILCOX,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:
Arrived here to-day. I find the difficulties much more than I anticipated. There is scarcely a day passes but what depredations are committed. Is Company D, Second Nebraska Veteran Cavalry, full? Has the Governor ordered any militia subject to my orders? All the thoroughfares must be patrolled for hundreds of miles.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Colonel R. R. Livingston has tendered the services of the veterans of his regiment, now here on a furlough. If accepted, can horses to mount them be taken and a competent board of officers appraise them, so that if any are lost such can be paid for?
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.
Page 429 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. FORT LARAMIE, July 27, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
Just arrived here. Find Colonel Collins' troops almost all on the different lines of communication. His battalion extends on this line over 500 miles of country. He has also three companies on the Denver line from Julesburg to Fremont's Orchard. The only safety to emigrants, stages, or telegraph lines will be to patrol the whole country from Kearny to South Pass, and to do this I must have more soldiers. The Governor of Nebraska has kindly offered to call out two companies of militia. Depredations are committed daily on the lines of communication. From present appearances you may expect a general Indian outbreak in all this western country.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 73 Chapter LIII. SCOUT ON SOUTH PLATTE RIVER, COLO.
JULY 17-28, 1864.- Scout on the South Platte River, Colo. Ter.
Report of Captain George L. Sanborn, First Colorado Cavalry.
CAMP SANBORN, COLO. TER., July 28, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor herewith to send you a report of the movements of my command during the past twelve days:
On the 17th of this month some Indians attempted to steal some horses from emigrants who were camped near this place. I immediately detailed twenty men to go in pursuit of them. When about ready to start a messenger arrived from Bijou Ranch with the intelligence that Indians were committing depredations at that place. Ordered Lieutenant Chase to take twenty men and go to that place, find their trail, and follow them. I took the first detail out myself, and although we traveled very fast, could not succeed in overtaking them. Returned to Camp Robbins, and next day, taking four days' rations, I started with forty men for headwaters of Bijou and Beaver Creeks, with the intention of intercepting the Indians on their way to Republican, but failed to find any, so went down Beaver Creek to Platte, and thence to Junction Ranch, where I found Lieutenant Chase with his command. In the meantime, Lieutenant Chase, with his command of twenty men, proceeded to Bijou Ranch, where he found that 2 men had been killed and 1 wounded and considerable stock stolen. From there he went to
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Junction Station, where he found that all of the stage company's stock, together with 6 head of emigrants' stock, had been stolen. From there he went to Junction Ranch, where he found that the Indians had stolen all of Mr. Reynolds' stock, amounting to 50 or 60 head. From there to Murray's, where all of the stock, cattle, and horses, had been driven off. He reached Murray's at daybreak on the morning of the 18th. From there he went into the bluffs, found the trail, followed it, overtook the Indians camped on Beaver Creek, about twenty- five miles from Murray's, at 10 a. m. July 18. He recovered the stock- 125 head. There were but five Indians with the stock, and of these he succeeded in wounding 2 but owing to the fact that the horses were nearly tired out with the previous sixteen hours' hard traveling, he was unable to overtake them, they being mounted on good horses. He returned to Junction Ranch, where I found him. From that place I started with forty men and scouted through the country south of Platte and east of Beaver Creek, but failed to find Indians. Number of Indians, as estimated by Lieutenant Chase and Mr. Granville Ashcraft (the guide), 150 number of emigrants killed 5 wounded, 1. Finding that the Indians had left the river I returned to this camp.
I am, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant,
GEO. L. SANBORN,
Captain, First Cavalry of Colorado.Co.
J. M. CHIVINGTON.
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Page 445 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERSDEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
In the Field, Walnut Creek, N. Bend of the Arkansas, July 28, 1864.
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Washington, D. C.:
I have arrived here, within thirty miles of Larned, with a force of nearly 400 and two pieces of artillery. The Indians have scattered. The 400 wagons which were besieged at Cow Creek are with me all safe, except the loss of 2 men and some 300 head of stock belonging to Mexican teamsters. I go to Larned to-morrow, when I will prescribe further measures of caution and security for the trains and travel and safety of the settlements on the frontier.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
CAMP ZARAH, NORTH BEND OF THE ARKANSAS,
July 28, 1864. (Via Lawrence August 1.)
Major S. S. CURTIS:
Just arrived. All well. Besieged trains relieved and with me en route to Larned. Have written fully.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
In the Field, Fort Zarah, North Bend of Arkansas, July 28, 1864.
His Excellency Governor THOMAS CARNEY:
Being informed of the attack on Larned by the Indians, the murder of many drivers, and destruction of property belonging to trains passing on this great Santa Fe road, and also ascertaining that these hostilities
Page 446 Chapter LIII. LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI.
had approached the border settlements, I called on Colonels Price and Scott to furnish me with militia to assist my Federal troops in checking, and, if possible, chastising the savage foe.
I have the honor to report that these officers very promptly reported with about 300 men, and have marched with me nearly 200 miles to this the region of hostilities. I trust the prompt arrival of this force will frighten the Indians, as it will at least convince them that the border settlements are prompt in their own defense. They have scattered before our arrival, but we will try to make them feel the severe chastisement due for their offenses.
I will turn the force homeward to their needy homes as soon as their presence can be spared from this vicinity, which I trust will be in a few days.
Hoping that you will sanction the conduct of your officers, and excuse my direct call, which has greatly expedited and strengthened my exertions,
I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's obedient servant,
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 447 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Omaha, Nebr., July 28, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Leavenworth:
DEAR GENERAL: There is a good deal of excitement up the Platte Valley, in consequence of continued depredations on the part of the Missouri Sioux and, perhaps, other tribes of Indians. Several murders have been committed and much stock run off and properly destroyed. Brigadier-General Mitchell is now near the scene of these depredations, and has called on me to send to his aid a few companies of our militia but these men would be only about half clothed, half armed, and half mounted, and would not be able to [render] half the service that older soldiers could. Colonel Livingston with about 350 of his veterans of the Nebraska First Cavalry are here on furlough. Their furloughs expire on the 13th of August but the colonel offers to call in his men and proceed to the scene of the troubles without delay, if ordered to do so by you. The only thing that I can see in the way is the want of horses to mount his men. If horses can in any way be had I have no hesitancy in saying that the best thing that can be done in the case would be to use the colonel and his veterans to relieve our settlers. These boys have had a three-years' service against the rebels, and I would like to see them try their hands on the savage Indians. They, I find, are ready for the work, and only await your orders to go at it. I may have to telegraph you before this reaches you, but I thought it proper to post you in this way, as I could not be so explicit in a telegram.
I am, sir, very respectfully, yours,
A. SAUNDERS,
Governor of Nebraska.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, July 28, 1864.
General R. B. MITCHELL,
Fort Laramie:
General Curtis is at Saline, on his way west. Will probably be at Fort Laramie before his return. General Blunt has been assigned to the command of the District of the Upper Arkansas, embracing Forts Lyon and Larned and east as far as Council Grove, but does not disturb your district. Accept the services of all the militia you need and can get, and communicate, if possible, with General Curtis.
C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
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Page 448 Chapter LIII. LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, July 28, 1864.
Brigadier General R. B. MITCHELL,
Fort Laramie:
You have made a quick trip. General Curtis has gone west on southern route and will be at Denver in about ten days, at which place communicate with him. Indians very bad on the Arkansas.
S. S. CURTIS,
Major and Aide-de-Camp.
OMAHA, NEBR. TER., July 28, 1864.
Brigadier-General MITCHELL,
Fort Laramie:
The following just received from department headquarters:
Lieutenant WILCOX:
Yours of the 27th received. Also one from General Mitchell direct, same date, which I have answered. There is no law authorizing the seizure or impressment of private horses, except the "law of necessity," of which in this case General Mitchell must be the judge. Horses thus taken will be paid for if lost while in the service of the United States without any fault or negligence of the owner.
C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
General, Colonel Livingston has tendered his service with 200 veterans. If you deem it expedient to impress horses to mount his men I think they can be ready in three days. Colonel Livingston says he will march without transportation or tents. You need not expect any aid from the Governor. He is non-committal. Please answer immediately.
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant, Fourth U. S. Cavalry, Actg. Asst. Adjt. General
OMAHA, July 28, 1864.Brigadier-General MITCHELL,
Fort Laramie:
Company D not yet full. The Governor has not done anything that I am aware of. Colonel Livingston, First Nebraska, has tendered his service and regiment. I telegraphed this to General Curtis last night, and if accepted asked authority to take horses for mounting them. The Governor has been seen. No probability of his doing anything.
JOHN A. WILCOX,
Lieutenant, Fourth U. S. Cavalry, Actg. Asst. Adjt. General
GENERAL ORDERS,HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA, Numbers 23.In the Field, July 28, 1864.
I. Lieutenant-Colonel Collins, Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, is hereby relieved from the command of the post of Fort Laramie, and charged with general supervision of all posts and detachments west of Julesburg, in the District of Nebraska, including both lines of communication westward through said district. Lieutenant-Colonel Collins will make such changes as he may deem necessary for the better protection of said lines, and will forthwith report all such changes so made to district headquarters for approval, and will make at least two monthly reports of the respective lines.
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II. Major John S. Wood, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, is hereby assigned to the command of the post of Fort Laramie. Companies D and F, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, will comprise a part of the garrison and will be subject to orders from Lieutenant-Colonel Collins, if necessary, for the protection of this line of communication. Lieutenant-Colonel Collins will turn over all books, papers, and other property belonging to the post to Major Wood on his assuming command of post.
By command of Brigadier General Robert B. Mitchell:
[JOHN K. RANKIN,?]
Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp
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Page 462 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
FORT LARAMIE, July 29, 1864.
Major C. S. CHARLOT:
Your dispatch received. With two or three more companies I can secure this line against Indians. My forces at different points have had several skirmishes and been successful, killing 15 Indians. The Indians are strung out in small parties all along the line. I have my
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troops strung out all along this line of communication, and they are patrolling the entire line for 500 miles. I have put Lieutenant-Colonel Collins in charge of this and Denver line, requiring him to be constantly on the road watching movements of Indians from Julesburg west. Have also placed Colonel Summers, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, on the same duty from Columbus to Julesburg. I have two companies of militia from Nebraska Territory. I have troops en route for Julesburg to make a permanent post there.
R. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 483 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Fort Larned, July 30, 1864.Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON:
DEAR COLONEL: I arrived here last night just as four companies of the First Colorado arrived, which I ordered forward over six weeks ago, I believe. If instead of sending my orders to you from Lyon the commanding officer had moved promptly, a great portion of the murders and loss of stock that have occurred in this region would have been spared. I regret also that none of your field officers are here, although several of the companies are present with only two captains and very few lieutenants. It was my purpose to have gone through, but matters along the river below seem to require further attention, which I am obliged myself to give immediate and further attention. The last train from the west was attacked at the Cimarron Crossing and two men killed and scalped. I sent a force back to guard that
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point. I fear your attention is too much attracted by other matters than your command, and hope you will feel the importance of concluding a good record which you commenced in the line of your present duties, whatever turn other matters of public interest may take in Colorado. I have no news from Colorado since the 20th I believe, when some troubles had reopened on the Platte. Of course I feel great anxiety for that line, when at my last advices General Mitchell was moving against the Indians and I ordered Colonel Collins to move down from Laramie. The force General Mitchell has ought to make its mark against the Sioux of that region if he can concentrate in time. As to the settlements I must rely on the militia to give material aid in that regard, especially in Colorado, where the people are so generally armed and young adventurers. I shall divide my forces here so as to scout south and north of the Arkansas, sending also a force west, where I would prefer to go also. I did not get your dispatches sent to me from this place, as they had not arrived when I left Fort Leavenworth. I shall expect to find them on reaching my headquarters, which may be yet another week. The Colorado troops look very well, but as their time draws toward a close they are impatient to get discharges. I move across the river to-morrow.
Truly, your friend,
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Fort Larded, July 30, 1864.
His Excellency JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado:
DEAR GOVERNOR: After aiding Colonel Ford's successful movement against bushwhackers in Platte County and Clay County, Mo., I hurried over here to give directions to my defenses, and hoped also to go through to Denver. I must, however, defer that movement, as the troops I have with me must be divided and concentrated so as to meet the dangers and apprehensions which change as the Indians shift their positions and multiply their outrages, and these delays will exhaust the time I can spare from my headquarters.
Having been in the field for the last ten days, I have not heard a word from you since your dispatch concerning new troubles on the Platte. I shall look for intelligence with great anxiety. On this route the Indians have murdered and robbed posts and stations from the crossing of the Cimarron, eighty-five miles west of this place, to Six-Mile Creek, twenty-two miles this side of Council Grove.
The dangers are not yet over, but the total disasters are not very great so far, 12 killed, 6 wounded, and about 150 head of Government stock stolen. The Kiowas, Big Mouth's Arapahoes, and Comanches Scem certainly engaged in this affair, but some stragglers from all the prairie Indians join in the villainy. It seems impossible to get intelligence of the enemy.
All the Indians have gone from the reach of my correspondence, even the most friendly fearing to approach our troops, many of whom are militia that joined me on the way and are not very particular in their discriminations, as they are much enraged at the hostile acts perpetrated. Two boys are here who were scalped alive, and I think they will recover, although one of them had the skin taken off to his ears and had eighteen wounds besides.
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My militia have now been out eight days and got a long way from their homes. They are, therefore,, unwilling to go much farther, and I have not troops enough without them to guard the posts and follow as I would desire to do.
The Colorado troops just arrived make a fine appearance, and I trust they will close out their career as it has so far progressed, with honor to themselves and their country.
I remain, governor, very respectfully,
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 491 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS,
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, Numbers 3.
In the Field, Fort Larned, July 31, 1864.
I. Colonel Price, with the best men and horses of his command, and such portion of select men and horses as will report from the command of Colonel Scott, and a detachment of Colorado cavalry, under Captain Jacobs, with light rations and no wagon transportation, will cross to the south side of the Arkansas and move down to the station known as the Little Arkansas Station, sending out detachment or moving his entire force, as occasion may seem to require, against Indians on the headwaters of Salt Creek and Red River.
II. Colonel Scott will select a portion of his best men and horses to join the command of Colonel Price, and with the remainder of his command move down on the north side of the Arkansas River, scouting the country on his left, and moving, with the artillery which will join him, so as to admit of easy concentration with the force of Colonel Price, who moves on the south side of the river.
III. Captain Booth, with his battalion, will move north toward the headwaters of Smoky Hill until he gets northwest of the Smoky Hill Crossing, and thence east to Fort Ellsworth or Smoky Hill Crossing, and finally, unless otherwise ordered, uniting with other forces at the crossing of the Little Arkansas. He will keep out front and rear guards and flankers on all sides, varying his movements to attack Indians as circumstances may require.
IV. The commander of this post, Captain Backus, will establish a post at or near the Cimarron Crossing, in command of a competent officer, and also re-enforce the post at Walnut Creek-Fort Zarah. He will have a general supervision of these two posts, which will also report direct to department and district headquarters, as designated in General Field Orders, Numbers 2. He will also send a detachment of at least 100 men under Captain Jacobs to report to Colonel Price and accompany him in his movements on the south side of the Arkansas.
V. All this distribution and movement of forces will be made forthwith.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Page 492 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
COLORADO CITY, July 31, 1864
His Excellency Governor EVANS:
DEAR SIR: We are surrounded by Indians. How many we do not know, but various parties have been encountered at almost every point of the compass. A portion of our boys came in collision with some of them to-day, and captured six of them with their arms and ponies.
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Attempting to bring them in after dark, the rascals made their escape, though it is supposed some of them were killed. Their arms and five ponies, however, were brought in. We expect to be attacked every moment, and are making such preparations as we can. It is now 12 midnight. We are in great need of arms. Not more than half of our people are supplied. We have many of our citizens enlisted, and were to have organized to-morrow, but the emergency renders it necessary that we send to you immediately. We want 100 rifles and 2,000 cartridges, and if you can send us fifty saddles it will be of great advantage to us. We shall perfect our organization to-morrow, and will send list of officers at once. Mr. Colton will transact the necessary business with you regarding the arms, &c. If you have soldiers to spare it would really be politics to send them to us. We have valuable crops now ripening, and need every man to secure them. These crops are important to the Territory, especially if our communication with the States is to be interrupted. We expect you will do the best you can for us.
Very respectfully, yours, &c.,
A. L. SHELDON.
