The Sand Creek Massacre
War of the Rebellion Records - august 1-12, 1864
August 1 - 12, 1864
Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 512 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW MEXICO,
Santa Fe, N. Mex., August 1, 1864.
Lieutenant Colonel WILLIAM MCMULLEN,
Commanding at Fort Union, N. Mex.:
COLONEL: I understand from Colonel Perea that the Indians of the plains are very troublesome and menace the safety of trains coming to New Mexico. Send without delay Captain N. S. Davis, in command of fifty cavalry, fifty infantry, and with two mountain howitzers, with fifty days' rations, by the Cimarron route to the crossing of the Arkansas, to render such aid as in his judgment can be effected with such a force. Captain Davis has a carte blanche to manage the matter as he shall deem best, having the purpose in view for which he is sent.
I am, colonel, respectfully, &c.,
JAMES H. CARLETON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Apply to Captain Enos for transportation.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 529 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DIST. OF THE UPPER ARKANSAS, Numbers 1.
Fort Riley, August 2, 1864.
I. In obedience to General Orders, Numbers 41, Department of Kansas, the undersigned hereby assumes command of the District of the Upper Arkansas, headquarters at Fort Riley.
II. The following named staff officers are announced, and will be respected accordingly: Captain H. G. Loring, Tenth Kansas Volunteers, aide-de-camp and acting assistant adjutant-general Captain R. J. Hinton, Second Kansas Colored Volunteers, aide-de-camp Lieutenant J. E. Tappan, Second Colorado Volunteer Cavalry, aide-de-camp.
J. G. BLUNT,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 545 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
SPECIAL HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS, FIELD ORDERS, In the Field, Cow Creek Station, Numbers 4.
August 3, 1864.
I. The troops belonging to the Fifteenth Regiment Kansas State Militia will resume their position under Colonel Price, who will march them to Fort Riley by the nearest and best route, scouting the country as he proceeds.
II. The troops belonging to the Fourteenth Regiment Kansas State Militia, under Colonel Scott, will proceed to the same place, following the Council Grove road beyond Cottonwood Springs.
III. Captain Both will leave Lieutenant Ellsworth at Fort Ellsworth, Smoky Hill Crossing, with Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, and proceed with his own company to Salina, where he will establish his headquarters.
IV. Captain Jacobs, with the Colorado troops, will proceed to Fort Zarah and assume command of that post, reporting to Captain Backus at Fort Larned, and to district and department headquarters, as designated in General Field Orders, Numbers 2.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 189 Chapter LIII. SCOUT ON THE SMOKY HILL FORK, KANS.
AUGUST 1-5, 1864.- Scout on the Smoky Hill Fork, Kans.
Report of Captain Henry Booth, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry.
HDQRS. COMPANY L, ELEVENTH KANSAS VOL. CAVALRY,
Salina, Kans., August 5, 1864.
SIR: In accordance with Special Field Orders, Numbers 6, dated headquarters Department of Kansas, at Fort Larned, July 31, 1864, extract III, I proceeded with my battalion, consisting of a detachment of cavalry from Company H, Seventh Iowa, Second Lieutenant ellsworth in command a detachment from Company L, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry, Second Lieutenant William Booth in command a detachment from the Fourteenth Kansas State Militia, and detachment from the Fifteenth Kansas State Militia, numbering in all ninety-two men, in a northerly direction. We camped at night on Ash Creek, about nine miles from Fort Larned. August 1, we broke camp early and proceeded in a northerly direction toward the Smoky Hill. After marching about ten miles we reached Walnut Creek, upon which we camped. It being twenty-five miles from here to the Smoky Hill, I deemed it not prudent to proceed any farther this day, especially as our guides said there was no water on the entire route. while encamped upon Walnut scouts were sent up and down the creek a distance of ten or fifteen miles. No Indians were seen, but indications that a large body had been here were apparent, but nothing recent. August 2, started this morning about 6 o'clock, throwing out flankers on each side to discover if possible any Indians that might be prowling around, but none were discovered on the entire march. We crossed the Smoky Hill to graze and examine the river. No signs were discovered that indicated the presence of Indians. Learning from our guide that Big Creek was a great resort for Indians, I determined to proceed there, a distance of nine miles, to camp for the night. On approaching the creek scouts were sent forward to discover if Indians were present. Here again we found the remains of a camp of a large body of Indians we judged from 400 to 600. They had apparently left in a hurry, as some of their pack-saddles, the remains of old tents, some hatchets, &c., were left scattered around the camp. they had evidently had a lot of stock, as the grass in the vicinity was cropped very short. I think from appearances that this camp had ben left but a few days before our arrival. Possibly it might have been deserted while we were at Smoky Hill Crossing, from which it is a distance about sixty miles. This body of Indians had gone in a northerly direction. Having rations for only three days I deemed it not prudent to follow this trail. We camped on Big Creek, three miles above its mouth. August 3, broke camp about 6 o'clock and proceeded down the north bank of Smoky Hill toward the crossing. After leaving this creek we came into large herds of buffalo, which had tramped the country so much that it was impossible to tell a buffalo trail from an Indian trail. We camped to-night on the Smoky Hill, about sixteen miles from the crossing. No sign of Indians here. The buffalo had fed the grass so close that nothing was left for our horses. August 4, started this morning at daylight, as our horses were fasting (the last of our corn was fed last night.) After marching five or six miles we found good grass and stopped to graze our animals. We reached Smoky Hill Crossing about 12 m. Here I received Special Field Orders, Numbers 7, dated headquarters Department of Kansas, Cow Creek Station, August 3, 1864, extract III. In accordance with said order
Page 190 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
I left Lieutenant Ellsworth at this station with his detachment and proceeded with the balance toward Salina, which place we reached August 5, 1864, at 6 p. m.
I think from present indications the Indians are upon the Saline, Solomon, and Republican Rivers, as the buffalo are plenty upon these streams, and they depend entirely upon them for a living. Undoubtedly they are encamped upon some of these streams.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
HENRY BOOTH,
Captain Company L, Eleventh Kansas Volunteer Cavalry.
Major General S. R. CURTIS.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 589 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, August 6, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS
GENERAL: Late on the evening of the 4th instant I learned that you were returning from Larned by way of Council Grove, and yesterday morning I started for that place for the purpose of meeting you, and arrived there about four hours after you had passed through. I have yet received no information of the locality of the troops in this district, except what I was enabled to obtain from Lieutenant Edington (Ninth Wisconsin Battery) who accompanies you nor do I know what orders or instructions you have given them. Please give me such information in regard to the locality or station of the troops, the instructions you have given them, and your views in general relative to matters connected with the Indians on the frontier, as you think proper.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Major-General.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 6, 1864.
Brigadier-General MITCHELL,
Julesburg, Colo. Ter.:
General Curtis was delayed so much by the Indian troubles that he has returned to Lawrence and will be here to-morrow.
S. S. CURTISMajor and Aide-de-Camp.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 231 Chapter LIII. AFFAIR NEAR FORT LYON, COLO. TER.AUGUST 7, 1864.-
Affair near Fort Lyon, Colo, Ter.
Report of Major Edward W. Wynkoop, First Colorado Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS,Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter, August 9, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report for information of the colonel commanding that on the night of the 7th instant at about 10 o'clock I received intelligence that a train had been attacked about seven miles from this post by a band of Indians supposed to be Kiowas and Comanches, who immediately crossed to the south side of the river, and there joining a large party proceeded up the river. I immediately sent word to Captain Gray, at Camp Wynkoop, to throw his command on the opposite side of the Arkansas River to cut off the retreat of the Indians, should they proceed in that direction. In the meanwhile, with eighty men and one howitzer, I crossed the river at this point for the purpose of proceeding up the other side rapidly in pursuit. My command consisted of detachments of Company D, commanded by Captain Soule, and Company K, commanded by Lieutenant Quinby, and Company G, with howitzer, commanded by Lieutenant Baldwin. While crossing the river I received a dispatch from Bent's Ranch to the effect that a party of Indians had been there that evening, including Satanta, war chief of the Kiowas, and two more of their principal chiefs, that they had but a small party with them in sight, but the supposition was,
Page 232 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
judging from the importance of the chiefs present, that a very large war party was in the immediate neighborhood. The dispatch also stated that the Indians had proceeded down the river, and a few miles below Bent's Ranch they attacked a house occupied by a family named Rood and murdered all the inmates. By a forced march I proceeded up in the direction of Bent's Ranch, seeing no signs of Indians until I reached the house said to have been attacked by the Indians, which was unoccupied, but which bore evidence of there having been a conflict, an attempt having been made to fire the house from the outside, which had proved unsuccessful. I afterward learned that the house had been gallantly defended by four men who had been attacked by fourteen of the proceeded as far as Bent's Ranch, scouting the country, but finding no evidence of there having been more than fourteen Indians, and those having apparently rapidly decamped in direction of the Cimarron, after fruitless search I returned to-day to this post, my men having been in the saddle for two nights, being entirely exhausted. I am well convinced Satanta with 1,000 or more warriors of the Kiowas and Comanches is located over on the Cimarron or in that vicinity. I have also received information that four white men have been murdered by these same Indians near the Cimarron Crossing. The available troops that I have in this garrison will not warrant me in attacking Satanta at present, not being able to take more than fifty men into the field, after leaving what would barely suffice for the absolute protection of the post, If it is possible I would respectfully recommend that I receive some re-enforcements, so that I may take a sufficient command in the field to punish this fiend Satanta and his murdering crew.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
I have the honor to remain, with much respect, your obedient servant,
E. W. WYNKOOP,
Major First Colorado Cavalry, Commanding Fort Lyon.
Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, Dist. of Colo., Denver, Colo. Ter.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 610 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANS., August 8, 1864.
(Received 2.10 a. m. 9th.)
Major-General HALLECK,
Chief of Staff:
I have returned from upper Arkansas. At Larned divided my forces in all directions, going myself with those scouting southward toward Red River. Could not overtake Indians, but scared them away from Santa Fe route, where stages and trains again move regularly. Have made Distinct of upper Arkansas, assigning General Blunt to command. Have increased and improved the organization of troops, giving stringent orders against allowing Indians inside of our lines. Discharged militia and directed continual caution. The Kiowas, comanches, and Big-mouth Arapahoes are evidently determined to do all the mischief they can. I hope no favor will be offered them by authorities at Washington till they make ample remuneration for their outrages.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 611 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, August 8, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Commanding Department of Kansas:
GENERAL: I forward you by this mail letters* just received from Captain Booth relative to indian operations at the Smoky Hill Crossing. Unless the horses stampeded should be recovered, which is hardly
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*See Part I, p. 233. (next entry)---------------
Page 612 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
probable, it is important that orders should be furnished with as little delay as possible. Horses are also required for about twenty dismounted men of Company G, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, now at Council Grove. Government horses should also be furnished to mount Captain Booth's company, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry, who are at present riding private horses, for which Government does not allow any pay. Probably one-half of the horses of this company would pass inspection, and could be purchased by Government, if an officer of the Cavalry Bureau were designated for that purpose. Transportation is also much needed, as well as arms to completely equip the few troops in this district. I understand that Captain Booth's company have forwarded requisition for revolvers, which have not yet been filled. As I have but few men, I hope that they may be thoroughly armed. Sabers we do not want but carbines and revolvers are essential. I shall send Captain McClure to Fort Leavenworth in a few days for horses, transportation, &c. I hope he may be successful in obtaining what he needs. As soon as I can get what little force I have organized, equipped, and in hand I shall move out on the border to ascertain the situation of affairs. And before starting on such an expedition I would like very much if you could send me a few additional squadrons of cavalry, as a considerable show of force will have much to do in deterring the Indians, if they really are determined to give us serious trouble. Two days ago I forwarded you some papers relative to a conflict between the hostile Indians of the plains and the Pottawatomies. I shall institute measures to ascertain the facts in the case and will report them to you.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Major-General.
Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 233 Chapter LIII. SCOUT TO MULBERRY CREEK, KANS.
AUGUST 8-11, 1864.- Scout from Salina to Mulberry Creek, Kans.
Reports of Captain Henry Booth, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry.
HEADQUARTERS,
Salina, August 7, 1864-4 p. m.
SIR: I have the honor to forward a dispatch just received from Smoky Hill Crossing concerning the stampeding of the horses of Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, stationed at that point. I learn from the dispatch bearer, who was one of the herders, that the Indians numbered from fifteen to seventeen. They came from toward the Arkansas River, but might have come from up the Smoky Hill and simply secreted themselves below the ranch to enable them to stampede the stock up the river. The Indians fired upon the herders with arrows mostly one only fired with a fire-arm. The number of horses taken is from forty to forty-five, with five mules belonging to the Kansas Stage Company. After the Indians had driven the stock about a half a mile they appeared to be in no hurry. The soldiers from the ranch pursued them on foot as far as was any use, firing upon them with their carbines, but had accomplished nothing when the messenger left. I shall send a scout up the Saline River to-morrow morning, as I think there is more possibility of finding them on that stream than on the Smoky Hill. I shall go with the scout myself and acquaint myself with the country and gain such knowledge of the whereabouts of the Indians as possible. I would like to have enough men to make a thorough search of this country, but you are aware, general, that my company is but partially mounted and poorly armed to hunt Indians, having only carbines. I would like to have revolvers or sabers, or both. I have no transportation. It is my
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opinion that the Indians are determined to take all the stock in this part of the country and mount themselves well before fighting much. The people here are alarmed about their stock. They are trying to raise a squad to pursue the Indians up the Smoky while I go up Saline River.
All of which is respectfully submitted.Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY BOOTH,
Captain Co. L, Eleventh Kansas Vol. Cav., Commanding Post at Salina.
Major General S. R. CURTIS.
[Inclosure.]
SMOKY HILL CROSSING, August 7, 1864-9 a. m.
SIR: We have had all our horses stampeded this morning except two, which the herders rode. They were taken at 7 a. m. while out herding. There were about fifteen Indians in number, as near as I could judge. The horses were run directly up the Smoky.
W. H. STRUTHERS,
Sergeant, Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, Commanding Detachment.
HEADQUARTERS,
Salina, August 11, 1864.
SIR: I have the honor to report the result of a scout made by myself and twenty enlisted men of my command up the Saline River, a distance of thirty-five of forty miles.
Sunday evening, August 7, 1864, I received a dispatch from Smoky Hill Crossing stating that the horses of H Company, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, had been stampeded and run off by a party of Indians. The dispatch stated that the stock had been run north. I immediately determined to proceed up the Saline River and intercept, if possible, the thieving redskins. We started Monday morning with four days' rations having no transportation we could carry no more. We proceeded up the south bank of Saline River, throwing out flankers on each side to discover, if possible, traces of prowling bands of Indians. We marched this day about twenty-three miles and camped about a mile from the river to keep away from the timber, to guard against Indians stampeding our stock. Tuesday morning we continued up the river to the mouth of Elkhorn Creek, which we crossed and proceeded up the west bank. This creek heads in toward the Smoky Hill and affords a good place for Indians to resort to, as it is surrounded by high hills, is well watered, and has good grass for that county. We followed this creek to its head, scouting on both sides, but discovered no traces of Indians. We camped on the head of this stream Tuesday night. Wednesday morning we started south and struck the head of Clear Creek, a branch of Smoky Hill, which we examined thoroughly but discovered nothing. We then turned east and came upon the headwaters of Mulberry Creek, which stream we followed to Salina, where we arrived Thursday evening, August 11, 1864. The heads of the streams that run into the Saline and Smoky Hill Rivers afford a good place for Indians to rendezvous previous to making a descent upon any point east of them. I don't think there is or has been any Indians on the south side of Saline River within thirty-five miles of this place. I find upon my return that a messenger came into this post on Monday evening (as per
Page 235 Chapter LIII. OPERATIONS IN CENTRAL ARKANSAS.
report) from the north side of Saline River, with a report that four men had been killed by Indians. The facts you will find in my report as stated by Sergeant Reynolds, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, who accompanied the scouting party.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY BOOTH,
Captain Company L, Eleventh Kansas Vol. Cav., Commanding Post.
Major-General BLUNT.
(Copy of Major-General Curtis.)
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 612 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
JULESBURG, August 8, 1864.
(Received 10th.)
Major S. S. CURTIS:
The Indians are infesting my lines for 500 miles. Have just learned a train was burned at Plum Creek this morning between Cottonwood and Kearny. I must have at least 800 horses or abandon this line of communication, and, if possible, I want the First Nebraska veterans (cavalry) ordered in the field, now at home on furlough. Can I depend on horses? Please reply immediately.
R. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General.
Page 613 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
JULESBURG, August 8, 1864.
(Received 10th.)
Major-General CURTIS:
Since my dispatch to Major S. S. Curtis this morning there have been two additional attacks on this route. One at Dogtown, east of Kearny ten miles. One mounted company gone in pursuit of Indians from Plum Creek, and the other dismounted. Half the troops in this district on foot.
R. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General.
OMAHA, August 8, 1864.
Brigadier-General MITCHELL:
Please keep me posted as to your movements and those of troops so long as you are on line of communication. It is impossible for me to keep up reports, or to know anything of the position of troops otherwise.
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, NEBR. TER., August 8, 1864.
Colonel S. W. SUMMERS,
Seventh Iowa Cavalry, Fort Kearny, Nebr. Ter.:
You can communicate with General Mitchell at Julesburg. The ordnance department forbids the issue of arms to citizens. The application sent to Washington was returned. I will see the Governor and try and get some of the Territorial arms sent out.
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
DENVER, August 8, 1864.
(Received 10th.)
Major-General CURTIS:
Of course you have news of outrages near Plum Creek. We are in a desperate condition on account of our communications being cut off by Indians. The route will have to be patrolled or we are cut off. Militia are so defective we can't hold troops away from home. Station camps at points along the line as far up as Junction, and gather emigrants along in companies and escort from camp to camp.
JOHN EVANS,
Governor.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,
Denver, August 8, 1864.Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Department of Kansas:
GENERAL: I am just in receipt of your dated Fort Larned, July 30, 1864, and have the honor to say in reply I regretted exceedingly at the time that Major Wynkoop did not send forward the troops instead of
Page 614 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
waiting to send to me. On receiving your letter I started immediately and traveled night and day till I reached Fort Larned. The reason no field officers accompanied the troops was that Major Anthony, who had been selected to do so, was sick and expected to be able to follow the next coach, and desired very much that i would not send another, on the score of his being just then unable to go. Captain Hardy, Company M, was absent on leave by yourself Captain Cook, Company F, under arrest by your order Captain Shaffer, Company A, is on General Butler's staff by order of the Searcy of War, and the lieutenants are on Staff duty, except Lieutenant Shoup, who was attending as a member of the State Constitutional Convention at Denver, but is now after a band of Texans or Confederate guerrillas, and it was fortunate that he was here to send in their pursuit, for he is pre-eminently the best man for such service I know of. I assure you, general, that I have not spent an hour nor gone a mile to attend to other matters than my command. My return from Lyon to Denver was caused by terror and alarm created by the Indian massacre in that neighborhood, and at the earnest request of all concerned in the peace and quiet of the whole Territory. I shall continue to give unremitting attention to my duties of a military character, having before I received your letter declined publicly to make a canvass of the Territory for State constitution, or for my own election to Congress as a member or delegate, for both of which I have been nominated. If representations have been made to the contrary, and you cannot come out yourself, a member of your staff could see by visiting this district who are true and who are false in their statements. Should be pleased to receive a visit from some one of them, and more than pleased to receive one from yourself, and in this last all our people join. Lieutenant Colonel S. F. Tappan, Major J. Downing, and Lieutenant J. S. Maynard leave here in the morning of to-morrow for Leavenworth as witnesses on court-martial. They will be able to give you any further information in regard to this district you may desire.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT COLORADO TERRITORY,
Denver, August 8, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Commanding District of Colorado:
SIR: I herewith inclose for your information copy of a letter received from Mr. Cassidy, of Canon City, in reference to guerrillas in his neighborhood.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory.
[Inclosure.]
CANON CITY, August 5, 1864.
Governor J. EVANS:
DEAR SIR: Those bushwhackers who robbed the stage are now nineteen miles above this place. Last night the herder of Messrs. Young and Byers came down with his horses, representing that two had
Page 615 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
come in and threatened his life if he refused provisions got his horses away and ran them off. Just now the other herder came in and reports six more had come in, one with his arm shot off. He went out pretending to go for horses, but made his way here. This is perfectly reliable. They are at this time nineteen miles above Canon, and I suppose they will try to get on the plains as far south as possible. I greatly fear there are others below.
Truly, yours,
CASSIDY.
FORT KEARNY, NEBR. TER., August 8, 1864.
Colonel ChIVINGTON:
Nine men killed to-day two miles east of Plum Creek. Two women and four children supposed to be taken prisoners among the latter a Mrs. Smith. Indians attacked three trains destroyed one and killed all the men on it.
H. KUHL,
Captain, Commanding.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NEW MEXICO,
Santa Fe, N. Mex., August 8, 1864.
Major General SAMUEL R. CURTIS, U. S. Volunteers,
Commanding Department of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth, Kans.:
GENERAL: Owing to Indian troubles upon the plains I have ordered a force of fifty cavalry, fifty infantry, and two howitzers by the Cimarron route to the crossing of the Arkansas, to give assistance to trains en route to New Mexico. This force is provisioned for fifty days and is understood to have left Fort Union on the 4th instant.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAMES H. CARLETON,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
(Same to Colonel John M. Chivington.)
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 625 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.HEADQUARTERSDISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, Kans., August 9, 1864.
Captain J. H. DODGE,
Ninth Wisconsin Battery:
I am in receipt of your letter of the 8th instant, inclosing letter of Captain Mossman to General S. N. Wood relative to recent movements of the Pottawatomie and Kickapoo Indians. A few days since I received the same information through another channel, and from all the facts I have been able to gather I am inclined to the opinion that there is a conspiracy between the hostile Indians of the plains and rebel emissaries acting as the agents of the Confederate Government. No armed Indians should be allowed to leave the settlements for the plains through their head men or agents. They should be made to understand the difficulty now existing between the Government authorities and the Indians on the Western border, and warned not to involve themselves in acts of hostility which these movements west in armed bodies at this time would inevitably lead to. At all events, they should be pro-
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Page 626 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
hibited to leave their reservation at present, or until something further is known of their intentions. Also the selling to them of powder in unusual quantities must be prohibited. I desire that you should watch their movements closely and report all the facts you may learn to these headquarters.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. G. BLUNT,
Major-General.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Omaha, Nebr., August 9, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Commanding Department of Kansas:
GENERAL: The difficulty with the Indians in the Platte Valley is growing worse every day. Yesterday, as I am informed by the commander at Fort Kearny, trains were attacked and men killed, both above and below the fort. General Mitchell demands more men in order to save the emigrants and the settlers. I understand that the First Nebraska veterans can be retained, but they have no horses. Could you not authorize a few companies to be supplied with horses? The horses can be had if you say so, and just as soon as our other veteran cavalry battalion is filled they will want horses, and these, if not longer needed by the First, could be turned over to them, and by thus managing not a single dollar would be lost to the Government. I shall telegraph you to-night on this subject and your answer may be sent before this reaches you, but as I had a good opportunity of sending this by our fellow-townsman, Mr. Millard, I thought I would write. Mr. Millard is a very reliable gentleman, and he may possibly be able to post you in regard to many matters of interest to you in this part of the country.
With much esteem, I am, very truly, yours,
ALVIN SAUNDERS,
Governor of Nebraska.
OFFICE OF THE U. S. COLLECTOR, FIFTH DISTRICT, STATE OF IOWA,
Council Bluffs, August 9, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
MY DEAR SIR: You are probably aware by this time that we were having a great disturbance with the Indians west of us. So far the Cheyennes are the ones engaged in these hostilities, but there is not telling how many of the tribes who are now friends will join them. Mr. G. W. Perkins, an old trader, who has made thirty-seven trips across the plains, was in my office this morning and he tells me that the Pawnees are very anxious to join our troops in an expedition against them, but that their offer is refused on the ground that it is against the policy of the Government to arm one tribe against another. The Omahas also would be glad to join us. Do you not think that in these times of the nation's trial such mawkish sentimentalities should cease? These two tribes could furnish at least 3,000 warriors. In this Indian war they would save us at least the services of 5,000 men, who could go South. Pray, if you can, influence the War Department to authorize the
Page 627 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
employment of these Indians. They will eventually fight on the one side or the other. Why not make and keep them our friends? I do not know what General Mitchell is about, but have little confidence in these long-haired officers.
With my best regards to your family, I am, very truly, yours,
HORACE EVERETT.
COTTONWOOD, August 9, 1864.
Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON:
Fourteen men killed by the Indians, and 2 ladies and 1 child taken prisoners. One by name of Mrs. Smith, from Central City, the others not known.
MARTIN B. CUTLER,
Lieutenant Company C.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 629 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF KANSAS,
Fort Leavenworth, August 9, 1864.
Major General JAMES G. BLUNT,
Commanding District of Upper Arkansas, Fort Riley:
DEAR GENERAL: Yours of the 6th instant is just received. I am very sorry I missed you. I hoped you might overtake me about Larned, but when I heard of your arrangements I saw it would not be possible,
Page 630 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
and I only hoped to meet or get here before you started. When I found the Indians of the upper Arkansas in defiant array, I apprehended much wider disasters than those already reported, and I fear now that they may combine to destroy trains and murder our white people. To prevent this I gave orders, copies of which I will send you. They will give you an idea of my views. First, I have increased and shifted troops in the dangerous district. Second, I have ordered fieldwork to be erected, such as seen best suited to localities, to prevent such assaults of Indians being successful. Of course I would not define the works. The bend of steams, high places, defense of fords and bridges, timber and water, and proper distances from post to post, will have to be considered. I suppose you will have to go through to Fort Lyon and look over the ground more leisurely and more carefully than I could do or than others have done. By having our stores and stock properly corralled, a very small fore can guard a post against Indians, and we will then be able to use more of our troops for escort and for the pursuit of the Indians. Third, I required entire secrecy and no intercourse with the Indians about the post. If talk and toady operations are to be conducted by anybody it must be transacted entirely outside of the lines of the posts. The Kiowas, Comanches, Arapahoes, Cheyennes, and Apaches, have all been implicated in the stealing of stock, and most of them with the murders. They must, therefore, if possible, be punished and also be required to restore double the amount of stock, and most of them with the murders. They must, therefore, if possible, be punished and also be required to restore double the amount of stock they have stolen before any terms of peace or friendship can be allowed. I have ordered Captain Booth to Saline Lieutenant Ellsworth, with his company, to Smoky Hill Crossing. I have re-established Fort Zarah at the mouth of Walnut Creek. Larned is important because buildings are erected to accommodate troops, but there is no great interest in its as a military post, and I do not think it best to put a vast amount of expense there. I sent a company to be posted at the Cimarron crossing of the Arkansas. Troops are already at Camp Wynkoop and Lyon, beyond the Cimarron crossing. I directed a station to be established at Cottonwood, and you know of the force at Council Grove. Intermediate stations will be necessary, I suppose, but we are so scarce of troops it may no be practicable at present. The object is to keep the line open and stages and trains safe in their transit. If practicable, a moving force should move out north and south to annoy, catch, and kill, so as to make war a burden to the savages and prevent them from procuring their usual supplies of buffalo meat. Such a general policy seems to be necessary to subdue the Indians and secure the safety of the whites. Six hundred men and two mountain howitzers would be force enough to meet the combined force of the hostile tribes I have named, and from all I could learn they have not combined and may not be able to do so. Some bands are said to be opposed to the war on the whites, and if that be so some arrangement may be made to separate them from their tribes. But they must not be brought into our lines to associate with our soldiers as they have ben doing, but directed to some special locality. You will make all possible inquiry as to the position and movements of the Indians and keep me fully advised.
I remain, general, very truly, yours, &c.,
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
P. S.-
Send the Colorado battery company now stationed at Larned to Lawrence as soon as possible for this purpose. Send orders by
Page 631 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
express. That battery must be entirely organized and ready for field service. The guns are at Lawrence and the men at Larned. The Wisconsin battery you will find an excellent one. It will remain in your district at present, but mountain howitzers may hereafter be substituted.
S. R. C.
________________________
Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 641 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 10, 1864.
(Received 10.30 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Washington, D. C.:
Indians have attacked and killed inhabitants on Little Blue this side of Fort Kearny on Overland Stage route. Stage just arrived at Atchison without passengers. Have requested Governor to send militia after them,and telegraphed commander at Kearny to come down on them if he has force but forces are scarce in that region. Cannot some of General Sully's command move down to Nebraska?
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 10, 1864.
Governor T. CARNEY,
Leavenworth:
The Indians have attacked the settlements on the Little Blue. Fifteen are know to be killed. I have no Federal troops in that region, and request that the militia be sent after the savages. I will do all I can to bring forces to bear on them.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
Page 642 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
ATCHISON, August 10, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
One coach just arrived from west. No mail or passengers through. Indians have murdered all families on Little Blue. One entire family, eight in number. Fifteen are known to be killed. All families are moving in for safety.
N. G. GILLESPIE,
Agent Overland Stage Line.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 10, 1864.
N. A. GILLESPIE,
Atchison, Kans.:
Dispatch received. When were Indians last seen? How far from Kearny or Atchison? What militia could be called out nearest to the scene of slaughter?
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
ATCHISON, August 10, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
One hundred and eighty miles from Atchison seventy this side of Kearny. Two men killed ten miles this side Kearny and train burned thirty-five above yesterday.
N. A. GILLESPIE,
Agent, &c.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, August 10, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Commanding Department of Kansas:
GENERAL: I have forwarded you by this day's mail a petition from the citizens of Shirley, Republic, and Washington Counties, asking protection from Indian depredations. I received the paper by the hands of Captain I. M. Schooley, of the Sixth [Seventeenth] Regiment Kansas State Militia, who was deputized by the citizens of the counties named to confer with me upon the supposition that they were embraced in my district. If my district was extended on the guide meridian to the northern boundary of Kansas, and I could have a few additional squadrons of cavalry, I think I could give protection to the frontier settlements. It appears that the Indians who commit depredations on this line of communications west, as well as the route through South Nebraska, take refuge between the two roads on the Republican, and I am of the opinion that hostile parties are there at present, near Lake Sibley. The establishment of a post near that point (Lake Sibley) with one or two squadrons of cavalry, would afford protection to the settlement on the Republican. Captain Schooley informs me that the State militia in that section have no arms. They number but a small force, as the country is sparsely settled, but they are very anxious to be armed, and if armed would make a good auxiliary force in case of serious trouble.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Major-General.Page
643 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.OMAHA, August 10, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
Several trains have been attacked and destroyed in the Platte Valley, just beyond Fort Kearny, within the last forty-eight hours, and all the men along with them killed. Citizens have also been attacked and killed, and the danger to our settlements is becoming imminent. Active measures will alone save the settlements up the Platte from complete abandonment. We have not horses for Nebraska (the First). Will you authorize your quartermaster here to purchase for two companies?
A. SAUNDERS,
Governor.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 10, 1864.
General R. B. MITCHELL,
Omaha, Nebr. Ter.:
The stage just in the atchison brings news of Indians murdering people on Little Blue. Can troops from Fort Kearny move down on them?
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
Page 644 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII. FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 10, 1864.
COMMANDING OFFICER,
Fort Kearny, Nebr. Ter.:
Indians are reported murdering citizens on Little Blue. If your force is sufficient come down on them.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
OMAHA, NEBR. TER., August 10, 1864.
POST COMMANDANT,
Fort Kearny:
Act upon the dispatches sent to Colonel Summers. I have given transportation to Government Saunders for territorial arms and ammunition to Kearny. Are you in communication with General Mitchell? Do you know where he is?
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
DENVER, COLO., August 10, 1864.
(Received 3.05 p. m.)
Honorable E. M. STANTON:
The alliance of Indians on the plains reported last winter in my communication is now undoubted. A large force, say 10,000 troops, will be necessary to defend the lines and put down hostilities. Unless they can be sent at once we will be cut off and destroyed.
JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Denver City, Colo., August 10, 1864.
(Received 9 p. m.)
Honorable W. P. DOLE,
Commissioner of Indian, Affairs:
I am now satisfied that the tribes of the plains are nearly all combined in this terrible war, as apprehended last winter. It will be the largest Indian war this country ever had, extending from Texas to the British lines, involving nearly all the wild tribes of the plains. Please bring all the force of your department to bear in favor of speedy re-enforcements of our troops, and get me authority to raise a regiment of 100-days' mounted men. Our militia law is inoperative, and unless this authority is given we will be destroyed.
JOHN EVANS,
Governor of Colorado Territory and Superintendent of Indians.
_________________________
Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 659 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 11, 1864.
N. A. GILLESPIE,
Atchison:
A cavalry company with mountain howitzer has started for the Blue settlements. Have also ordered troops at Kearny to move down on Indians.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 11, 1864.
General R. B. MITCHELL,
Julesburg:
Order your quartermaster to buy horses. I get no action by Cavalry Bureau. Keep all the troops in motion you can.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
HEADQUARTERS,
Salina, August 11, 1864.
Major-General BLUNT:
SIR: I have the honor to report the following facts in regard to the killing of four men by Indians near Beaver Creek, about forty miles from this place, on the north bank of Saline River. Saturday evening, August 6, 1864, four men, viz, two men (brothers) named Moffitt, one Tyler and one Hueston, started from their ranch to kill a buffalo for meat, taking a two-horse team with them. Upon reaching the top of a hill about three-quarters of a mile from the house the Indians were discovered rushing down upon them. The horses were turned and run toward a ledge of rocks, where the men took a position. They appear to have fought desperately and must have killed several Indians. Three of the men killed were scalped, but one of the scalps was left upon a rock close by. The horses were both shot through the head. This was probably done by the ranchmen to prevent them falling into the hands of the Indians. The wagon was burned. The Indians made a descent upon the house, in which were an old man a woman. The old man shot one of the Indians through a hole in the wall, whereupon they all fled. They judged the number of Indians to be about 100. When the messenger arrived at this place a party of twelve citizens, with Sergeant Reynolds, of H Company, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, proceeded to the spot. They learned the above facts. The sergeant says the Indians retreated up the Saline River (west). As all the ranchmen have left the country
Page 660 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
west of this point, the Indians will be obliged to fall upon the settlements next for plunder. It seems as if they were determined to pick up all the stock possible and kill all they can overpower. The people of Saline County met in mass-meeting this afternoon "to devise ways and means to protect themselves and property from the ravages of the red-skins." I would state here, general, my urgent need of more cavalry horses to mount my company. I have as yet only eight Government horses, the balance (thirty) being private.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY BOOTH,
Captain Co. L., Eleventh Kansas Vol. Cavalry, Commanding Post.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,
Denver, August 11, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Department of Kansas:
SIR: I have the honor to state that I have carefully looked over the entire Arkansas River route from Fort Larned to the canon where the river enters the Rocky Mountains, especially so that part of the route above Fort Lyon, and am prepared to state as my deliberate judgment that Fort Lyon ought to be removed to a point on the Arkansas River, seventy-five miles above where it is now situated, and where the upper line of the Arapahoe and Cheyenne reservations [sic]. At this point there is plenty of grass for haying and grazing, and the greatest abundance of wood to be found anywhere on the upper Arkansas River. There should be another post established at the Cimarron Crossing. There is at that place, or sufficiently near, grass for hay and grazing. The only drawback is wood. I passed the route with John Smith, who is well posted, and he says that wood in limited quantities may be had at a distance of fifteen or twenty miles. This I cannot state as of personal knowledge, but Smith is without a doubt well posted, as I found him at home by night and day on the whole route. If timber for fuel can be found at this crossing it is of all things the point for a post between Larned and Lyon, and should our national troubles terminate soon these posts should be needed but a few years, as then we should be able to either kill of those Indians or make them settle on reservations and go to work, and I confess the former of these propositions looks most feasible to me. Of this last point I do not speak so positively, but of the first I don't think here is a doubt. Everything connected with building a post is more accessible than at any other point for the defense of the route and settlements on the river. The buildings at Fort Lyon are not tenable, and will have to be abandoned soon or rebuilt.
I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant,
J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 11, 1864.
Colonel CHIVINGTON,
Denver:
If militia can take care of settlement send volunteers down to strengthen Platte route. Let your quartermaster buy horses.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
Page 661 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 11, 1864.
Governor EVANS,
Denver, Colo., Ter.:
Arms can be issued to a Federal officer in command of militia in actual service. I wish you would give me facts, so I may know our disasters. I go to Omaha to aid in the protection of overland mail, which should not give up. All that can be done will be.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
DENVER, August 11, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS,
Fort Leavenworth:
The overland line is about withdrawing stock from the plains for want of protection. Unless troops can be stationed along the line to patrol it our supplies will also be cut off. I fear the telegraph will be cut, too. We have but few arms here, of an inferior quality, with damaged ammunition. The alliance of all the tribes, as I have reported to you, is now undoubted. If they sweep west, as they probably will, we shall be in great danger of being destroyed. Our two regiments of Colorado troops ought to be sent out at once, and we should have at least 5,000 additional troops sent along the route. Would it not be well to defend the Overland Stage route at all hazards? This will give us the best protection for travel, as the line might be patrolled. The troops you telegraphed were coming to this line I understand have all gone up the North Platte to Laramie, and that Colonel Collins is not on his way to our line. What can we expect?
JOHN EVANS,
Governor Colorado Territory.
I have just come up the line from the Missouri, and fully concur in the above. Have already stopped mail and passengers and ordered stock off the road.
GEO. K. OTIS,
General Superintendent Overland Stage Line.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 11, 1864.
Governor JOHN EVANS,
Denver:
Am fully posted. Do all you can with militia. I will do my utmost to keep lines open.
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 237 Chapter LIII. SKIRMISH NEAR SAND CREEK, COLO. TER.
AUGUST 11, 1864.-Skirmish near Sand Creek, Colo. Ter.
REPORTS.
Numbers 1.-Major Edward W. Wynkoop, First Colorado Cavalry.
Numbers 2.-Lieutenant Joseph A. Cramer, First Colorado Cavalry.
Numbers 3.-Lieutenant Horace W. Baldwin, Independent Battery Colorado Light Artillery, commanding detachment First Colorado Cavalry.
Numbers 4.-Lieutenant Ira Quinby, First Colorado Cavalry.
Numbers 1. Report of Major Edward W. Wynkoop, First Colorado Cavalry.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., August 13, 1864.
SIR:
I have the honor to report, for the information on the colonel commanding, that on the 11th instant while my ordnance sergeant, Kenyon, was a few miles north of this post in search of a stray horse, he was pursued by fifteen Indians, they following him to within sight of the commissary building. In ten minutes I had thirty men in the saddle, and dividing them into two squads started them immediately in pursuit. The detachments were respectively command by Lieutenants Cramer and Baldwin, copies of whose reports I inclose. Toward night, after hearing that Lieutenant Cramer was fighting the Indians, and receiving a message from him to the effect that he believed there to be a very large body in his neighborhood on Sand Creek, I hurriedly dispatched Lieutenant Quinby with thirty men to re-enforce Lieutenant Cramer. In the meanwhile Company E, Captain Gray,
Page 238 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
having arrived from Camp Wynkoop, I left them to garrison the post and followed in person with a section of the battery, Lieutenant Hardin, and a small detachment of cavalry, Captain Soule. I was accompanied by Captain Robbins, chief of cavalry. It was very dark when I left the post, and I had gone but a few miles when a thunder-shower arose, making it impossible to know with any certainty what direction I was proceeding. I still kept on, and after a march of over six hours succeeded in finding Sand Creek there halting the command I sent out scouts and remained until daybreak. On account of having been thrown considerably out of my course by the storm, I was unable to find either Lieutenant Cramer or to whereabouts of the Indians. The Indians are supposed to be Kiowas. There is a probability that they are Arapahos. At all events, it is my intention to kill all Indians I may come across until I receive orders to the contrary from headquarters. Just as I was about leaving the post with the above-mentioned command two men were driven in by the Indians who were proceeding up the river. I have received official intelligence to the effect that thirty men of Company A, First Cavalry of Colorado, have had a fight with a large body of Indians, near the crossing of the Arkansas, and lost all their horses. A few days before that two men of Company A were murdered while out alone two men of Company E while at Camp Wynkoop are supposed also to have been murdered. I desire also to report the fact that the carbines with which our regiment is armed are absolutely worthless, it being impossible to discharge over two-thirds of them. I am obliged to depend almost altogether on the pistol and saber, and you are aware that a large number of the men are without pistols. I have no doubt that the post was surrounded by Indians for the purpose of endeavoring to run off my herds, but so far I have entirely baffled, not having lost a single head. I will continue to remain as vigilant as possible.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. W. WYNKOOP,
Major First Cav. of Colo., Commanding Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter.
J. S. MAYNARD,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, Dist. of Colo., Denver, Colo. Ter.
Numbers 2. Report of Lieutenant Joseph A. Cramer, First Colorado Cavalry.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., August 12, 1864.SIR:
In pursuance to Special Orders, Numbers 169, dated at these headquarters, Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter., August 11, 1864, I started from this post at 12 m., proceeding down the river a distance of four or five miles and took a due north course for three miles, and there came in sight of a band of Indians who were from five to six miles in advance of us, they going in a northeast direction. I immediately gave chase, and after a race of fifteen or twenty miles I came up with them, fourteen in number, who immediately turned and charged my command, and at the same time endeavoring to get to our rear. At the time that the fight commenced I had but six men the rest, whose horses had failed, were to our rear, coming up as fast as possible. As soon as the rest of our
Page 239 Chapter LIII. SKIRMISH NEAR SAND CREEK, COLO. TER.
men had joined us we advanced, driving them and following them four miles, in which it was a running fight, resulting in wounding four Indians and capturing one pony, with no loss on our side. I here sent back a messenger to report the facts to you, and ask for instructions. We were then twenty-five miles from the post all of our horses given out. After a rest of a few moments we went over on Sand Creek for water, which we found in abundance then followed on for twenty miles farther, but were unable to get nearer than three quarters of a mile of them. Our horses all gave out but three. Went into camp on Sand Creek at an Indian crossing, where from 100 to 150 had crossed but an hour or two before we arrived, their trail leading southeast. At 10 at night there came up a very heavy rain-storm spoiling all our ammunition, thereby obliging us to start for the post, where we arrived a little after sunrise on the 12th, traveling a distance of ninety miles.
Allow me here to speak of the men who accompanied me, all of whom, with one exception, behaved with coolness and bravery. I would more particularly speak of Sergeant Forbes, Company D Corporal Yankee Company D and Sergeant Reed, of Company L, and recommend them to your notice. Had we had good arms I am satisfied we could have captured the whole band, but our carbines (Starr) were useless, only two out of eleven that could be fired.
Respectfully submitted to Major Wynkoop for approval.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOS. A. CRAMER,
Second Lieutenant Company G, First Cavalry of Colorado.
Major E. W. WYNKOOP.
Numbers 3. Report of Lieutenant Horace W. Baldwin, Independent Battery Colorado Light Artillery, commanding detachment First Colorado Cavalry.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., August 12, 1864.
LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that in compliance with Special Orders, Numbers 169, dated Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter., August 11, 1864, I crossed the river at this post with a command of one non-commissioned officer and fifteen privates of K Squadron, First Cavalry of Colorado. I proceeded down the river on the south side until I had satisfied myself that the Indians had not crossed, and believing that I could render more effective service by crossing, I crossed the river about twelve miles below this post and immediately took the trail of the enemy. I followed this trail until about 4 p. m., when I met a messenger from Lieutenant Cramer's command, who told me that by riding five miles directly north I would find Lieutenant Cramer engaged with the Indians. I made all haste in the direction named, but failed to find Lieutenant Cramer. I continued to travel in this direction until it became sod ark that I could not see an object at 100 feet distant. I was at this time near the lime bluffs on Sand Creek, but believing that it would not be safe for me to camp with horses in such condition I marched back to the lakes, ten miles from Sand Creek, where I rested my stock about two hours. My men being very poorly supplied with clothing, and having no rations, the night being cod and rainy, I thought it advisable for me to return to this post and
Page 240 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
report again for orders. My men were in the saddle about eighteen hours and rode within that time sixty-five miles. I arrived at this post about one hour before daylight August 12, 1864.
Respectfully submitted.
HORACE W. BALDWIN,
Second Lieutenant, Ind. Batty. Colo. Vol. Arty., Commanding Detachment.
Lieutenant W. W. DENISON,
First Colorado Cavalry, Post Adjutant.
Numbers 4. Report of Lieutenant Ira Quinby, First Colorado Cavalry.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., August 12, 1864.
SIR:
Agreeable to Special Orders, Numbers 169, dated Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter., August 11, ordering me with twenty men of Company K, First Cavalry of Colorado, to re-enforce Lieutenant Cramer, I left this post at 7.30 p. m. the 11th and proceeded as I supposed in the direction he had taken, but owing to the darkness of the night I lost my way, and after wandering about until nearly midnight I camped until morning, then started in the direction I supposed he had gone. After traveling about fifteen miles I struck his trail returning to this post, upon which I immediately returned. I did not see any Indians on the trip.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
IRA QUINBY,
First Lieutenant, First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding Company K.
Major E. W. WYNKOOP,
Commanding Fort Lyon, Colo. Ter.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I
Page 243 Chapter LIII. SKIRMISH NEAR FORT COTTONWOOD, NEBR. TER. AUGUST 11-OCTOBER 28, 1864.-
Operations against Indians in Nebraska Territory, with skirmish (September 20) near Fort Cottonwood.
REPORTS.
Numbers 1.-Brigadier General Robert B. Mitchell, U. S. Army, commanding District of Nebraska.
Numbers 2.-Lieutenant Thomas Flanagan, Sixteenth Kansas Cavalry, commanding detachment of artillery.
Numbers 1. Report of Brigadier General Robert B. Mitchell, U. S. Army, commanding District of Nebraska.
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA,
Omaha, Nebr. Ter., October 14, 1864.
MAJOR: I have the honor to transmit herewith a journal* of the operations of the troops under my command after leaving camp at Chalk Bluffs, on Solomon River, September 8, 1864, until September 24, 1864, at which time active operations ceased. Subsequent to the time of the operations as detailed in the journal inclosed my movements were conducted over a country so well known to the military that I did not deem a journal necessary, and therefore submit the following synopsis of my movements: I remained at Cottonwood two days to recruit the horses and secure the necessary supplies, marching at sundown, September 17, 1864, up the Platte River, intending if possible to strike a band of Brule Sioux in the neighborhood of Ash Hollow, proceeding without anything of interest occurring until arriving at the old California Crossing, where I met a small band of Ogalalla Sioux under the guidance of Two Face, who has been our friends from the first. I gave these Indians protection, sending them to Cottonwood. I crossed the river at this point, moving as rapidly as possible to Ash Hollow, and through that across the North Platte on the Little Blue. We were too late, however, as the Indians had fled northwest through the Sand Hills to the headwaters of the Loup fork or Niobrara Rivers. Their trails were all pointing that way. I ordered Captain O'Brien, with his company and one howitzer, up the Blue, and moved down the North Platte with the remainder of my command, proceeding with as much rapidity as practicable with the worn-out condition of my horses to Cedar Bluffs, finding no Indians. From there I moved toward Cottonwood, arriving at that post September 24, having marched in the aggregate since leaving that post 212 miles, seeing no hostile Indians save an occasional scout. I was satisfied that farther pursuit of the present was useless. I immediately placed my troops at suitable points along the lines of communication between Julesburg and the Kansas line, with orders to patrol in such a manner as to thoroughly protect the route and yet enable them to put their horses in condition for a rapid march after hostile Indians should opportunity offer. The Pawnees were ordered home and the rolls containing offer. The Pawnees were ordered home and the rolls containing their accounts sent to your headquarters for action. I returned to these headquarters as soon as I felt satisfied my orders were being carefully carried out.
I am, major, your obedient servant,
ROBERT B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Major C. S. CHARLOT,
Assistant Adjutant-General,
Department of Kansas.
---------------
*Omitted.
---------------
Page 244 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
Numbers 2. Report of Lieutenant Thomas Flanagan, Sixteenth Kansas Cavalry, commanding detachment of artillery.
FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANS., November -, 1864.
SIR: In compliance with your communication of October 31, 1864, I herewith transmit my report of expedition after hostile Indians:
I left Fort Leavenworth, Kans., on the 11th of August, 1864, with two pieces of artillery and thirty-five men for Omaha, Nebr. ter. At Plattsmouth I was ordered to disembark on account of the low stage of water and proceed by land to Fort Kearny, Nebr. Ter. I left Plattsmouth August 17, traveling on what is called the ridge road, but water is so scarce the animals had to be watered with buckets wood is also scarce, but grass is good. About forty miles west of Plattsmouth I saw the first indications of alarm amongst the settlers an account of the Indian troubles. I met about 200 men, women, and children leaving their houses and their all behind them for fear of their hostilities. I advised them to return, but their terror was too great to allow them to do so. I found the houses on the road all deserted and the fences carried away by passing trains. Those people were, in my opinion, very foolish for leaving, as there was not an Indian to be seen in that section of the country. If they had stopped, collected together, and built a fort on some stream and placed their families there, there would have been no occasion for their leaving and having their property destroyed. I arrived at Junction Branch, on the Platte River, August 22, 1864. Here to three roads from Plattsmouth join-the river road, the ridge road, and the lower road. Here I would note and recommend the lower road as much preferable for traveling to either of the other two. At this point, forty miles east of Kearny, there is an abundance of wood and a plentiful supply of good water and grass. August 24, arrived at Fort Kearny, having traveled the distance of 212 miles in seven days. Here I found Major-General Curtis and Brigadier-General Mitchell organizing and making arrangements for an expedition against hostile Indians.
I left Fort Kearny September 1 with the command for Plum Creek, thirty-five miles west of Kearny arrived there at sundown that evening. The road is level along the Platte Bottom, with good grass and water. About half a mile east of Plum Creek are the graves of eleven men, murdered by the Indians on the 8th of August, and the remains of a train they had burned. The number of guns having been increased to five pieces, by one from Saint Joseph, and two at Kearny, two pieces were ordered to report to Captain Gove, commanding General Curtis' escort. One piece was ordered to report to Colonel Livingston, commanding First Nebraska Veteran Volunteer Cavalry, and I was ordered to report to Colonel Summers, commanding Seventh Iowa Cavalry, with two pieces and a detachment of sixteen men. September 3, left Plum Creek and marched in a southwest direction about forty miles, and camped on the Republican River. no wood on the line of this day's march, but good grass and water when we reached the Republican. Crossed the river next morning crossing bad in consequence of quicksands. Saw where a party of Sioux Indians had camped about ten days previous. Scouts were immediately sent out, but failed to discover in what direction they had gone. We then marched up a canyon for about two miles in length, in some places so narrow that a wagon had scarcely room to go through. The hills around here are barren of everything but buffalo grass, which is of a whitish color.
Page 245 Chapter LIII. SKIRMISH NEAR FORT COTTONWOOD, NEBR. TER.
This grass is good for horses, but so short that considerable time is required to collect a sufficient supply for any considerable number of animals. September 4, we encamped on a creek called Crooked Nose by the Indians good grass, wood, and water here. Pawnee Indians who accompanied the command as guides and scouts killed some buffalo. As yet we had not discovered any of the hostile Indians. September 5, marched at 7 a. m., having sent out a pioneer party to make crossings for the wagons and artillery. Camped on the Beaver Creek that night, which is a nice stream with plenty of wood, water, and grass. While here Major R. H. Hunt was sent out with a detachment of cavalry and one piece of artillery to look out of Indians. September 6, moved to Prairie Dog Creek here Major R. H. Hunt and his command joined us, having during the previous evening and to-day traveled over 100 miles of the country, but saw no Indians. He found an Indian pony, and saw other signs of them, without discovering them. September 7, reached Solomon's Fork. It is a splendid stream, good wood, grass, and water from here Captain Wilcox, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, was sent out with his company on scout, and here the command was divided, General Curtis taking the First Nebraska Veteran Volunteer Cavalry, one company Nebraska militia, and a detachment of the Eleventh Ohio Cavalry and one company Eleventh Kansas Cavalry General Mitchell taking the Seventh Iowa Cavalry and two pieces of artillery and Indian scouts. September 8, General Curtis marched east, and General Mitchell west, to whose command I was attacked. We marched up Solomon's Fork about twenty miles here we encamped waiting the return of Captain Wilcox's command, which joined us that evening he saw no Indians, but saw signs found the place where a large body of them had encamped but a short time previous. Captain Wilcox reports to have seen wagon tracks and white men's foot-prints in the sand. September 9, marched in the direction of Medicine Lake, which is about forty miles south of Cottonwood Springs. One of the scouts reported this a favorite place for Indians. September 10, started out at 4 a. m., marched in a northwesterly direction about forty miles,and camped on Prairie Dog Creek, about thirty-six miles above, where the command had previously crossed good grass, wood, and water. September 11, marched to Beaver Creek, traveling in a northwest direction. September 12, encamped on Crooked Nose Creek saw a few buffalo, did not kill any. The horses were now getting into a poor condition from the necessarily long marches and the want of corn. The want of picket-ropes was greatly against the cavalry, who had none, and was soon apparent on their animals. They took their horses out to graze for two or three hours in the evening after they came into camp from a hard day's march, then tired them up to a rope stretched from one wagon wheel to another for the night this was all they got until next evening. I had lariats for all my horses, and they were all the time in a serviceable condition. September 13, marched to Republican River and camped just below the mouth of Medicine Lake Creek. Captain Murphy, of Seventh Iowa Cavalry, was ordered out from this point with his command on scout. September 13, marched to Republican River and camped just below the mouth of Medicine Lake Creek. Captain Murphy, of Seventh Iowa Cavalry, was ordered out from this point with his command on scout. September 14, moved camp to Medicine Lake Creek. It is a stream about ten yards wide, with about four fee depth the banks high, rocky, and precipitous good fish in this river. Laid over here until the 14th, until Captain Murphy's command joined us, and to give the horses rest. Captain Murphy joined us 14th with his command saw no Indians on his scout. September 15, started on march very early this morning had marched about ten miles when the scouts came charging back, and reported Indians in our front. The general ordered a charge, but as soon as we came in sight of the sup-
Page 246 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
posed Indians they turned out to be an independent company of Colorado rangers, hunting Indians like ourselves. September 16, camped on Medicine Lake. This is a favorite place for Indians to winter their stock. We saw a great many cottonwood trees that had been cut down by the Indians, the bark of the small limbs being eaten by their ponies when the grass is covered with snow. The lake is small, with high hills around it. The stream that runs from the lake runs in a southeast direction, until it empties itself into the Republican. There is good wood, grass and water at the lake, and all along the stream. September 17, marched to Fort Cottonwood, Nebr. Ter. arrived at that post about 10 p. m. The county to the back of Cottonwood is barren. Remained here until September 19. Marched at sundown up the river. I was taken sick and did not accompany the command. September 20, remained at Cottonwood sick. A party of eight soldiers was sent out to-day to look for plums for sick in hospital while on this duty they were surprised by a party of Indians sixty to seventy in number four of them were killed, and their bodies found next day mangled in a horrible manner the remainder made their way back to camp. This occurred about three miles from camp, and the men belonged to the Seventh Iowa. The commanding officer sent out a company in wagons to follow their trail until the next day, but the country became so broken they had to return, unable to proceed they were unsuccessful. If they had been mounted they would certainly have overtaken them. This company found three ponies dead where the soldiers encountered the Indians the day previous, and it is almost certain some of the Indians were killed. General Mitchell returned with his command to Cottonwood September 26. The artillery was left at Cottonwood I took charge, and remained with the same and had the horses all reshod. A great many reports reach us of depredations committed by the Indians. Troops are stationed all along the line from plum Creek to Julesburg, at distances of fifteen miles apart, chiefly to escort the mail. October 12, received orders from Colonel Livingston, commanding Sub-District of Nebraska, to turn over the guns and equipments in my possession to the commanding officer at Fort Cottonwood, and to report with my detachment to my company headquarters, Fort Leavenworth, and started at 4 o'clock that evening, and reached Gillman's Ranch, fifteen miles east of Cottonwood, where we encamped for the night. October 13, met the coach about 10 a. m. Were told by the passengers that the Indians attacked them the evening previous about sundown, wounding one soldier and one civilian passenger that afternoon saw an Indian standing on a hill, and in about ten minutes after we first observed him about fifty or sixty Indians came charging out of the hill toward us. I immediately ordered the wagons to halt, brought the men into line, nineteen in number, when the Indians, seeing our force, halted for about five minutes, and then charged back to the hills. There were but seven revolvers amongst the whole party, and without other arms we retired to an old stable on the road and quite near to us. Here remained all night ready to defend ourselves if attacked. About 10 o'clock that night four soldiers of the First Nebraska Veteran Volunteer Cavalry came galloping down the road, and reported that the Indians had attacked a detachment of their company who were in the hills on scout after Indians, and advised us to keep a strict watch and be ready, as there was great danger. The soldiers wee on their way to Plum Creek for re-enforcements. We passed the night without any attack, and on October 14 reached Plum Creek, and found all the troops out after the Indians, with one piece of artillery. October 15, reached Fort Kearny and remained there until the 20th. Here we drew mus-
Page 247 Chapter LIII. AFFAIR IN THE SAN ANDRES MOUNTAINS, N. MEX.
kets and ammunition sufficient for our protection and defense, and started for Fort Leavenworth on the 20th. Found all the ranches on the Little Blue burned, and to the best of my opinion the owners of these ranches are with the Indians. There was plenty of wood and water on my route between Kearny and Fort Leavenworth. Made the trip in eight days and a half, arriving at the fort on the evening of the 28th of October, 1864.
In my judgment the best time and manner to hunt Indians is to start about the middle of May, leave all wagons behind, take mules and pack them a mule will carry from 250 to 300 pounds then they can go over the same ground that the Indians do, get on their trail and follow it up until they are caught. In the summer of 1860 four companies of the Fourth [First] U. S. Cavalry, commanded by Major Sedgwick, started from Fort Riley, Kans, after Kiowas, but could not overtake the Indians on account of their being encumbered with wagons so they left their wagons at Fort Larned and started with pack-mules. The result was that the Indians were overtaken in twenty-five days on the headwaters of the Smoky Hill River, and gave them a severe thrashing.
As to the utility of artillery my opinion is not favorable. The Indians fight so scattered and are so seldom found in solid bodies, that artillery cannot be effective. The least possible incumbrance is necessary to rapid movements and the arrangements which facilitate such movements will most nearly approach success.
The country through which we passed this summer has a great sameness. This country has a greater altitude than here, and in the highlands is comparatively barren. No grass, wood, or water is to be found of any consequence, except on the creek bottoms, and back from there nothing grows but buffalo grass. The land is also very broken, with deep ravines leading into the streams and in traveling through the country it is necessary to take one of the ridges to get to the streams. The expedition, although not encountering Indians in numbers, nor accomplishing any great defeat or startling surprises, is not without its effect. The expedition itself will show the determination of the Government to punish them for thieving and murder. And our movements, although rapid, failing to discover them, show how much they were in fear of us, as the country through which we passed was almost cleared of them they receded as we advanced, and, on the whole, the expedition will have a moral and I trust a lasting influence.
I have the honor to be, captain, your obedient servant,
THOS. FLANAGAN,1st Lieutenant Co. M, 16th Kans. Vol. Cav., Commanding Detach. of Post Arty.
Captain D. J. CRAIGIE,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Dist. of North Kansas.
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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II
Page 670 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
HEADQUARTERSDISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,
Fort Riley, August 12, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS:
DEAR GENERAL:
I am just in receipt of yours of the 9th instant. Lieutenant McClure goes to Fort Leavenworth to-day for horses, transportation,
Page 671 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.
&c. I hope he may be successful. If I can get sufficient horses to mount what cavalry there is in my district and obtain three or four additional squadrons I believe I will be able to protect the Santa Fe route and also the country on the Republican, if that territory should be added to my district, as I mentioned to you in my letter of the 10th instant. I desire, as soon as I can get things in shape, to make a pilgrimage over the western part of my district and superintend matters personally. The fact being known that I am moving about on the frontier will give a feeling of security to the frontier settlements, where considerable alarm exists at present, and I may possibly have the good luck to steal a march on the red devils and give them a chastising, which is the only thing that will do them good-a little killing. The last telegraphic report received here gives some indications of successful operations at Mobile. I trust that it may prove true, for the general prospect during the last few days has not been very flattering. We do not move on to Richmond quite as fast as the country had expected. Give my regards to Mrs. Curtis and Mrs. Julia and also to your military family.I remain, with high regard, yours, truly,
JAS. G. BLUNT.
P. S.-
What are your views in regard to the building of a military telegraph from Fort Leavenworth to this point?
J. G. B.OMAHA, August 12, 1864.
(Received 11 p.m.)
Honorable E. M. STANTON:
I have called out the militia to assist in punishing the Indians on our frontier. Will you authorize the ordnance officer here to issue arms to the militia troops? Answer by telegraph.
A. SAUNDERS,
Governor of Nebraska.
COTTONWOOD, August 12, 1864.
Major-General CURTIS:
Am I to have any aid in horses or men in this district? I have 600 miles of country invaded by Indians, all within four days. Yesterday there was another attack on the road near Laramie. From the South Pass to within forty miles of Nebraska City there have been constant raids on the road for four days, and for three weeks the same thing has been done from Fort Laramie to South Pass. I am concentrating at strong points along the road all citizens and trains for their own protection. The citizens are generally without effective weapons. I have positive proof that there are white men, guerrillas, in large numbers aiding the Indians against us. I have ordered the horses bought.
R. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Page 672 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.
OMAHA, August 12, 1864.
Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,
Cottonwood Springs:
The following just received:
The state just in to Atchison brings news of Indians murdering people on Little Blue. Can troops from Fort Kearny move down on them?
S. R. CURTIS,
Major-General.
I have replied to General Curtis that we have but one mounted company at Kearny, and Indians all along our line.
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, August 12, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS,
Fort Leavenworth, Kans.:
General Mitchell is out west at Cottonwood Springs, I think. I have sent your dispatch to him there. There is but one mounted company at Kearny, and the Indians are along our line from Kearny to South Pass.
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, August 12, 1864.Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,
Cottonwood Springs:
I have given transportation for Territorial arms to Fort Kearny. The Governor now wants transportation to Grand Island and Columbus, but I do not like to trust our trains without escort or to withdraw troops from any point for escort without your knowledge. Shall I give transportation in this case and without escort? I shall send subsistence to-day to the companies at Nebraska City, if they are to move to the Blue direct from there, and direct them to communicate with Fort Kearny. I will endeavor to push things along and do the best I can, but like as frequent and full directions from you as possible, so that I may work understandingly and carry out your views. General Curtis was at Saint Joseph yesterday on his way here.
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
OMAHA, August 12, 1864.
Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,
Cottonwood Springs:
The Governor has called out twelve companies militia. There are not enough horse equipments at Leavenworth to mount the First Nebraska if they remain here. Colonel Livingston thinks they can be obtained more quickly from Saint Louis. Shall I forward his requisition to General Curtis, with request that it be forwarded to Saint Louis, with explanation of the emergency?
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
Page 673 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION. OMAHA CITY, NEBR. TER., August 12, 1864.
Major C. S. CHARLOT,
Asst. Adjt. General, Dept. of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth, Kans.:
Just received following from General Mitchell:
COTTONWOOD, August 12, 1864.
Have horse equipments for every dismounted soldier instanter. Say to Governor if he does not order out militia the Territory will be laid waste.
ROBT. B. MITCHELL,
Brigadier-General.
Four hundred horse equipments are needed for First Nebraska Cavalry, and nearly as many more for other dismounted men. Colonel Livingston's requisition goes forward to-day. If the stores are not at Leavenworth cannot they be procured at Saint Louis?
JNO. PRATT,
Assistant Adjutant-General.
FORT KEARNY, August 12, 1864.
Captain JOHN WILLANS:
All the mounted men at this fort (fifty) started for the Blue this morning. Had to station a portion of this command at Plum Creek.
Your obedient, servant,
S. W. SUMMERS,
Colonel, Commanding.
FORT LYON, COLO. TER., August 12, 1864.
Honorable JOHN EVANS,
Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs:
SIR:
The Indians are very troublesome. Yesterday a party of fifteen chased a soldier within three miles of the post. Lieutenant Cramer with fifteen men pursued them. After a chase of fifteen miles the Indians halted an gave fight. We killed 2, wounded 2 more, and captured 2 horses. They then retreated toward Sand Creek. Our horses were so much exhausted that our men were unable to pursue farther. Last evening an expressman was driven back by four Indians. There is no doubt but large parties, since the re-enforcement of Larned, have come up the river and are now in this vicinity. I fear the work at the agency will have to be abandoned if troops cannot be obtained to protect it. I have made application to Major Wynkoop for troops. He will do all he can, but the fact is we have no troops to spare from here. We cannot ascertain what Indians they were, but I fear that all the tribes are engaged. The Arapahoes that I have been feeding have not been in for some time. It looks at present as though we shall have to fight them all.
S. G. COLLEY,
U. S. Indian Agent, Upper Arkansas.
DENVER, August 12, 1864.
Major General S. R. CURTIS:
Indians have appeared near here. No militia organized for the field, and law no account. Troops all out after Indians and guerrillas can't send any down Platte yet.
J. M. CHIVINGTON,
Colonel, Commanding.
43 R R-VOL XLI, PT II
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