August 13 - 21, 1864

Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 691 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.

WASHINGTON, August 13, 1864-11.15 a.m.

Major-General CURTIS:

The contractor of the Overland Mail Line has represented through the Post-Office Department that more protection against Indians is required along the line, and that two armed men should accompany each coach. He also asks that orders be given to the military not to use the grain, forage, and stores for the line. Please see that these requests are carried out as far as you are able.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

SAINT JOSEPH, MO., August 13, 1864.

(Received 11.45 a.m.)

Honorable E. M. STANTON:

Constant difficulty between my inspector and medical director induces me to relieve the latter. I hope you will approve. I am going to the Platte Valley to look after the Indians on the overland route. They have attacked trains and stages and murdered many of the people. Have with me small force, which, with militia, I hope sufficient to scatter them.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, KANS., August 13, 1864.

(Received 9.20 p.m.)

Major-General HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

Your dispatch just received and telegraphed to General Curtis, at Omaha. The following has just been received from General Mitchell, commanding District of Nebraska:

General CURTIS,

Fort Leavenworth:

Just heard from a company of militia sent up the Little Blue from Kearny. They scoured the country for forty miles up and down the streams. Found no Indians. I have parties out in every direction from each post chasing Indians. Everything

Page 692 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

will be done that I can do with my present force. I am raising militia as fast as I can. The Governor has authorized the raising of twelve companies. I have received to-day [sic] toward one company in this vicinity of ranchmen.

R. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Kansas.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,

Fort Riley, August 13, 1864.

Major General S. R. CURTIS,

Commanding Department of Kansas:

GENERAL: I am just in receipt of a note from Mr. I. M. Schooley, living on the Republican near Lake Sibley (of whom I wrote you on 10th), dated the 11th instant, in which he states that a large body of Indians are on the Republican in that neighborhood, having with them a large herd of stock (horses), among which it is probable are the horses taken from our troops. I also learned yesterday (unofficially) that the company of the Colorado First at the Cimarron Crossing had lost all their horses stampeded by the Indians.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAS. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

P. S.-

Mr. Schooley states that the people in his settlement, on the Republican, are very much alarmed.

J. G. B.

FORT LARNED, KANS., August 13, 1864.

Captain H. G. LORING,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Fort Riley, Kans.:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I have just arrived at this post, intending to take command of the cavalry forces stationed here, and proceed against the hostile Indians, who have recently stolen a large quantity of Government and citizens' stock. I am of the opinion that these Indians could be overtaken and punished, providing the troops here were properly supplied with ammunition, &c. I find upon examination that the cavalry force are almost entirely out of ammunition, and there is none at the post to supply them. I would, therefore, beg leave to recommend that there be immediately forwarded to this post, by the return coach and escort from Fort Riley, the following stores,

Page 693 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.

providing they can be procured at Fort Riley, viz: 8,000 cartridges, Star carbine, caliber .52 5,000 cartridges, Sharps carbine, caliber .52 5,000 cartridges, Colt army pistol, caliber .44. The above would be sufficient for immediate necessity. Captain Backus, who has recently commanded the post, informs me that he has made requisition for supplies, stores, &c., but they will not reach here in time unless stores are received from Fort Riley.

I have the honor to be, with much respect, your obedient servant,

SCOTT J. ANTHONY,

Major First Cavalry of Colorado.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA,

Omaha, Nebr. Ter., August 13, 1864.

His Excellency A. SAUNDERS,

Governor of the Territory of Nebraska:

Mr. Hay has made application to me for Government transportation for the Territorial arms for Columbus and Grand Island. He informs me that there will not be enough to furnish a load for a Government wagon, and as there will probably be need for use of all the Government transportation in the district for the supplying of the increased number of troops, and as I do not feel authorized to withdraw troops for escort duty without General Mitchell's knowledge, not to trust the wagons without escort, I have felt myself obliged to communicate with General Mitchell before permitting more of the Government transportation to leave here. Pending the reply to this communication could not a wagon be furnished by the Territorial authority to Mr. Hays for these arms?

I am, Governor, your very obedient servant,

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 13, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Cottonwood Springs, Nebr. Ter.:

Captain Davis, at Pawnee Agency, reports that settlers are moving away from Shell Creek, and between his camp and Columbus, and asks protection from him. He says his command is not strong enough to leave his camp. I have directed him to move or remain as ordered by you.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.OMAHA, August 13, 1864.

Captain JAMES B. DAVIS,

Pawnee Agency:

You must use your discretion about sending detachments from your post. General Mitchell, who is at Cottonwood, will telegraph orders to you.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

Page 694 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA,

Omaha, Nebr. Ter., August 13, 1864.

Captain Z. JACKSON,

Co. B, First Batt., Nebr. Vet. Cav., Commanding Post Dakota, Nebr. Ter.:

Your communication of the 9th instant, inclosing Lieutenant Tuttwiler's report of the attempt of Indians to destroy the town of Niobrara, on the 1st instant, has been received. All that can be done upon your line at present is to prevent, as far as possible, any invasions of hostile Indians and to ascertain their number, locality, and intentions. They are in large force along the entire Platte Valley, and have committed many outrages. General Mitchell is at Cottonwood Springs. You will have to use great watchfulness and discretion and the means at your disposal in the best possible manner. Your requisition for ammunition has been delivered to the acting ordnance officer to be filled and forwarded.

I am, captain, your very obedient servant,

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 13, 1864.

N. A. GILLESPIE,

Agent Overland Stage Line, Atchison, Kans.:

Can some officers go through to Kearny by coach on Tuesday? How soon will you be running to Denver? General Mitchell says Little Blue is all right again.

S. S. CURTIS,

Major and Aide-de-Camp.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

Washington City, August 13, 1864-11.35 a.m.

Honorable A. SAUNDERS,

Governor of Nebraska, Omaha:

I am directed by the Secretary of War to inform Your Excellency that orders have been given to Lieutenant Northrop, acting ordnance officer at Omaha, to supply the necessary arms on your requisition.

C. A. DANA,

Assistant Secretary of War.

DENVER, August 13, 1864.

(Received 12.30 a.m. 15th.)

Honorable E. M. STANTON:

Have 200 100-days' men offered if they can be mounted and go at once. Indians reported near here, and we are in great danger for want of troops. Please order quartermaster at Denver to muster and equip as fast as men enlist.

JNO. EVANS,

Governor, &c.

Page 695 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - UNION.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 13, 1864.

Colonel JOHN M. CHIVINGTON,Denver City, Colo. Ter.:

Your Governor has been authorized to raise a mounted 100-days' regiment. The ordnance, quartermaster, and commissary officers in your district will furnish the necessary supplies upon proper requisitions.By command of Major-General Curtis:

C. S. CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, August 13, 1864.COMMANDING OFFICER,

Camp Collins:

I learned from Indian Agent Major Whiteley that 400 Ute warriors are out on the war-path, but say they will not interfere with whites unless the soldiers interfere with them while they are after the Sioux, Arapahoes, and Cheyennes. Now, if these red rebels can be killed off by one another it will be a great saving to the Government, for I am fully satisfied that to kill them is the only way to have peace and quiet. Your command is in another district and I feel delicate about suggesting a policy in this matter, but in my district I shall not restrain them from killing one another. I don't consider that any Indian has any right to the protection of the Government from another Indian. It, of course, is to our interest to do what we can to keep peace with the Utes while we are too poorly prepared to defend against, not to say to follow and chastise, them.

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 707 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-

UNION.HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS, Fort Riley, August 14, 1864.

Major General S. R. CURTIS,

Commanding Department of Kansas:

GENERAL: Two men have just arrived from up the Republican, who represent the alarm as spreading in that vicinity. All of the settlers have left with their families and stock and concentrated at a point about thirty-five miles northwest from here on the Republican, where they propose to make a stand and defend their homes if they can be armed. There is one militia company of about fifty men (Schooley's), but no arms. I have sent to Captain Schooley to come in to-morrow and get arms and ammunition for his company, and will try and send a squad of mounted men under a commissioned officer to co-operate with them until other arrangements can be made for their protection. Everything indicates that we are to have serious trouble on this frontier with Indians, and in my opinion prompt and decisive measures should be taken to meet the treatened difficulty and give protection to the frontier settlements. I know full well the embarrassments you labor under in regard to insufficiency of troops in your department, and so far as I am concerned I will endeavor to get along with as little help as possible, but my force at present is entirely inadequate for the work to be done besides, the few troops I now have are not available for the want of horses. I hope Lieutenant McClure will succeed in getting tho horses I sent him for. I require at least 200 to put the troops I have on a fighting basis. These horses at this time would aid me very materially. Mounted men are required. Infantry are of little service, except to garrison the post here one company could be used to advantage. For this purpose I wish you would send me Captain Mobley's company of the Seventeenth Kansas.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAS. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS, Fort Riley, Kans., August 14, 1864.

[Lieutenant A. R. BANCROFT:]

SIR:

The general commanding directs that after having arrived on the Republican, in purusance of the orders you will received from Captain Booth, you establish the headquarters of your detachment in the neighborhood of Clay Centre. Information has reached these headquarters that the settlers above that point have moved down with their families and stock for safety, and are rendezvoused near the place mentioned (Clay Centre). Your mission is to protect the settlers against Indian depredations. In this you will be aided by the settlers of the neighborhood, who will be armed immediately from this post. They will be under the immediate command of Captain I. M. Schooley, of the

Page 708 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

State militia, and will co-operate with you and under your direction. You will take good care to guard your stock and use every vigilance against surprise. Scout the country up the Republican and across to the Little Blue, and all information that you obtain of the movements of Indians that is of importance you will communicate promptly to these headquarters.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. E. TAPPAN,

Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp.

MARYSVILLE, August 14, 1864.

Major-General BLUNT,

Fort Riley:

SIR: I have just arrived at this point form Fort Leavenworth on an expedition after the Indians who committed the late depredations on the Denver road. From what information I can gather, I think that they have moved toward the Republican, with from 800 to 1,000 had of oxen and a large number of horses and mules. I shall be at the crossing of Big Snake to-morrow and follow up the road until I strike their trail, when, if I am satisfied that there are no more bands on the road, I shall strike toward the Republican. General Sherry, of the militia, has just started. He goes in the direction of the Republican. I write this for your information, general, thinking that you may not be so well posted as I am as to their movements. It is eighth days since we have had any communication farther than fourteen miles above Little Blue. In that fourteen miles they have murdered sixteen men, women, and children, and burned all the ranches. The people were flying from their homes all over the country yesterday, as I came along, but I have steadied them down, and the men are all going out after the Indians. I have about seventy-five men and one mountain howitzer.

I have the honor to be, general, yours to command.

S. P. THOMPSON,

Captain, Sixteenth Kansas, Commanding Expedition.

OMAHA, NEBR. TER., August 14, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Cottonwood Springs:

One company militia is to leave Nebraska City this morning for Beatrice. The citizens of Beatrice have fortified and formed company, expecting an attack. Governor Saunders thinks another company will be ready to leave to-morrow.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

ATCHISON, August 14, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS:

Can send them on first coach. Will not be running through that soon. By our last from Little Blue it is far from being all right. Impossible to get station-keepers and stock-tenders unless they have some guaranty for protection from similar raids.

N. A. GILLESPIE,Agent.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 720 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII. BROWNSVILLE, NEBR., August 15, 1864.

Major S. S. CURTIS:

Dispatch to Nebraska City any news. Indians have been doing considerable damage near Beatrice. Have the Colorado troops moved? Militia are turning out and much excitement prevails. Been delayed by low water,but all well.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 15, 1864.

Major General S. R. CURTIS,

Nebraska City, Nebr. Ter.:

Your dispatch received. What do you mean by having the Colorado troops moved? The detachment of the Eleventh Ohio moved this morning for Fort Kearny.

S. S. CURTIS,

Major and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS, Fort Riley, Kans., August 15, 1864.

Captain BACKUS,

Commanding Officer Fort Larned:

I am just in receipt of intelligence that a body of Indians are moving southwest across the Little Blue to the head of the Republican, with a large herd of oxen, horses, and mules taken from the Fort Kearny and Denver route. Troops are in pursuit of them, and it is probable that they would attempt to escape by crossing to the south side of the Arkansas. Concentrate your force as much as possible and endeavor to intercept them. They have burned many of the ranches on the Kearny route, destroy several trains, captured a large amount of stock, and

Page 721 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

murdered all that have fallen into their hands. Notify me promptly of all information you obtain of Indian movements. I have no force here to move against the Indians now morning down from the Kearny route, and must rely upon the forces under your command.

Very respectfully,

J. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS, Fort Riley, Kans., August 15, 1864.

Lieutenant ELLSWORTH,

Commanding Detachment at Smoky Hill Crossing:

I have information that a body of Indians are moving from the Fort Kearny and Denver road, southwest across the Little Blue and Republican, having with them a large herd of oxen, horses, and mules captured from the Kearny route. As they are being pursued by troops they will probably endeavor to cross the Arkansas. Send scouts in the direction of the Republican to watch their movements, and if they are discovered moving toward the Arkansas, you will promptly notify the commanding officer at Fort Larned and also these headquarters.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

NEBRASKA CITY, August 15, 1864.

Brigadier-General FISK,

Saint Joseph:

The following dispatch gives a pretty correct account of matters relating to Indians on the Blue. So many false rumors are afloat the public had better have this. Some of my troops must be at Beatrice by this time:

Major-General CURTIS,

Brownville:

A reliable citizen of this place has just arrived from Beatrice. He left there at 6.30 last evening. He says the Indians have committed no depredations except on the stage road on the Little Blue, and only in small parties on the road. Main force of the enemy, about 2,000 strong, are on the Republican, southwest of Fort Kearny. Informant had a brother killed on Little Blue. Small parties first attack trains, and if repulsed return in greater force. A citizens company of fifty men, commanded by Captain Gilbert, are on the Little Blue. Several ranches have ben burned. There are 200 families at Beatrice and about 200 men, but have but few arms and little ammunition. People are a good deal excited and reports are exaggerated. Heard nothing of attack on Otoe Agency except and reports of fire in that direction, which was prairie burning. Twenty-two scouts sent there went to Blue Springs. Report no enemy there. This report I consider reliable. It is believed that there are rebels leading Indians, as they talk good English.

HENRY M. ATKINSON,

Assistant Provost-Marshal, District of Nebraska.

S. R. CURTIS.NEBRASKA CITY, August 15, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS:

Mr. Lewis, a freighter of this place, who loaded at Atchison, reports that he left the Atchison and Fort Kearny road near Big Sandy a few

46 R R-VOL XLI, PT II

Page 722 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

days since, brought his train to Beatrice and corralled. The Indians attacked a mule train above Sandy and were driven off. They then attacked an ox train loaded with machinery in charge of Comstock, and stampeded all his stock and killed 2 men. They attacked two trains of about twenty-five wagons each and drove off all their stock. The mule train first mentioned was loaded with merchandise for Salt Lake, which they threw out of their wagons, took the men in that belonged to the ox train, and left for Atchison in haste. No troops have left Brownville 10 p. m.

O. P. MASON.

FORT KEARNY, August 15, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Commanding Department of Kansas:

I arrived here yesterday from Fort Laramie. I find the Indians at war with us through the entire District of Nebraska from South pass to the Blue, a distance of 800 miles and more, and have laid waste the country, driven off stock, and murdered men, women, and children in large numbers. In my humble opinion, they only way to put a stop to this state of things will be to organize a sufficient force to pursue them to the villages and exterminate the leading tribes engaged in this terrible slaughter. On this part of the line the tribes engaged are the Cheyennes, Kiowas, and Arapahoes, part of the Yanktons, and straggling bands of the Brule Sioux. On the west part of the line are the Winnibigoshish, Snakes, and part of all the bands from Minnesota, and with the Indians there are a large number of white men engaged. From the best information I have, I believe every party of Indians on this line policy you desire me to pursue I will act promptly. I think I have got things so arranged as to prevent further massacres until we are prepared to meet them with force.

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.OMAHA, August 15, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Fort Kearny:Nebraska Republican of to-day published an article accusing Colonel Summers of great delays on the day of the Plum Creek massacre says he was eleven hours going thirty miles, stopped two hours for dinner, &c. The publication of the report, even if all its allegations are correct, was premature and unjustifiable. I send the report to you, that if true or untrue you may take such action as you may deem proper. I send a mountain howitzer to Kearny to-night.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 15, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Fort Kearny:

Arms for Columbus have gone. Those for Grand Island will be started to-night. I have directed Captain Moer to telegraph you fully

Page 723 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

concerning matters in quartermaster's department. Have told Captain Carson as you directed. General Curtis is not yet here. Is expected to-morrow morning. Do not know whether he intends going west or not. Shall you return here?

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 731 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. OMAHA, NEBR. TER., August 16, 1864.

(Received 2 p. m. 17th.)

Major-General HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

Yours of the 13th, concerning the furnishing of escort for Overland Mail Line, to defend it against Indians, will be complied with. I am here to look after Indian troubles, that are quite extensive on the line and against border settlements. I have troops arriving on the Blue, where the mischief was greatest. General Mitchell telegraphs from Fort Kearny that he thinks that region is threatened by a large force of Indians collecting on the Republican. I am sending out militia in small parties to join forces which I have gathered below, and will soon be upon them, be they many or few.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

OMAHA, August 16, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT:

Just arrived. Have received and answered General Halleck's dispatch. Indian troubles as reported yesterday are progressing right. How are matters at headquarters?

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 16, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS:

General McKean sends for more forces, expecting an attack from 1,500 rebels from Missouri. I sent two companies One hundred and thirty-eighth [Illinois], and ordered Captain Conkey, with his detachment at Fort Scott to move to Paola, en route to Blunt. Blunt asks for Captain Palmer's company, as they have mountain howitzers. He also suggests the extension of the guide meridian east to the State line. Mr Gillespie has been here, and I gave him an order addressed to any commanding officer U. S. forces in the field to return stock taken from the stage line and give protection future seizures.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 734 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

FORT KEARNY, August 16, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Omaha:

Your dispatch is received. The amount of damage done west of here is hard to estimate. There have been twenty persons killed between here and Cottonwood and one train burnt. The ranchmen have all left, except where we have posts from Cottonwood and Julesburg. The ranchmen have all run except two posts occupied by the military. The stage stock has been taken off to-day, I am informed by the agent, from Julesburg to Cottonwood. Unless the Government intends to abandon the Laramie route entirely, I have taken all the troops off that route that can possibly be spared. I have taken from that route two companies of the Eleventh Ohio, one stationed at Fremont's Orchard, the other at Camp Collins, extending two posts toward Julesburg. I have made the headquarters of one company Seventh Iowa Cavalry at Julesburg, one post extending each way. We occupy the road west from Collins to South Pass. My troops are just scattered enough to be cut up by detail. Captain Murphy, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, has been on the Blue since last Thursday with his company. Have heard nothing from him since he left Pawnee Ranch. Major O'Brien reports a skirmish between his troops and Cheyennes to-day at 12 m. six miles east of Cottonwood. I will probably start for Omaha to-morrow for the purpose of conferring with you.

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NEBRASKA, Omaha, Nebr. Ter., August 16, 1864.

Honorable ALVIN SAUNDERS,

Governor of Nebraska Territory:

GOVERNOR: I have the honor to communicate the following extract form telegraphic dispatch of this date from Brigadier-General Mitchell, at Fort Kearny: "If troops are not in the field this road will go back to the aborigines." In accordance with General Mitchell's directions, I have the honor to inform you that every effort will be made by the military authorities here to aid you in arming, subsisting, &c., of the militia, to aid in the emergency caused by the presence of the large force of hostile Indians the Platte Valley. Your Excellency is probably aware that the number of effective troops in the district has been but barely sufficient to garrison the several posts, even while there has been no concerted action by large bodies of hostile Indians, and the speedy addition of all the forces that can be put into the field (it will be seen by General Mitchell's dispatch) is necessary to prevent incursions and outrage on the line, if not to save even the garrison of the posts now held by our troops.

JNO. PRATT,Assistant Adjutant-General.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, COLORADO TERRITORY, Denver, August 16, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding District of Colorado:

SIR: I have the honor herewith to inclose for your information copies of letters received from Major Colley and Mr. Bent in reference to the hostile disposition of the Indians in the vicinity of Fort Lyon.

D. A. CHEVER,

Private Secretary.Page

735 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

[Inclosure.]

FORT LYON, COLO. TER., Sunday evening, August 7, 1864-11.30 p. m.

Honorable JOHN EVANS,

Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs:

DEAR SIR: About 9 o'clock this evening Mr. French, who is cutting hay for this post on side of the river about eight miles above here, arrived here with the intelligence that a Mexican train encamped near him had been attacked by a party of Kiowa Indians, and it is said that one man was killed. The Indians took some sugar, coffee, &c., and fled back across the river. Major Wynkoop immediately called out Companies D and K of the First Colorado Cavalry, and, taking command in person, started out after the Indians. While the troops were getting ready a shot was fired across the river opposite the post and another just below the commissary where some men are encamped engaged in cutting hay.

Yours, truly,

S. G. COLLEY,

Per FRANK OLMSTEAD.

A messenger has just arrived from Bent's Ranch, twenty-five miles above here. I inclose you Bent's letter. Major Wynkoop has sent out an express to Camp Wynkoop ordering Captain Gray to cross the river and send out scouts, and if possible intercept the Indians on their way down.

In haste, yours,

COLLEY.

[Sub-inclosure.]

BENT'S RANCH, August 7, 1864.

Major COLLEY:

About 10 or 11 o'clock to-day four Kiowa Indians came in sight and finally came up. One of them was Satanta, or Sitting Bear, and one of them the Little Mountain, or Tohason's son. They said they were on a war party, and when they first left their camp that there was a very large party of them, and on the Cimarron they killed five whites, and the most of the party turned back from there. The Little Mountain's son says he was sent be me by his father to see if I could not make peace with the whites and them. I told him that I could not say anything on that subject to them until I saw some of the proper authorities. I then told them that I had heard that General Curtis was at Fort Larned, and that he was a big chief, and that he was the man that they would have to talk to. They asked me about you. I told them you were at the fort. The Indians are all over the hill, and I am afraid they have killed old man Rule's folks. I think I will have to move from here soon. The women are alarmed, and I don't think it safe here. We will send this down after night, as we don't think it safe to send a man in daylight. The Little Mountain's son appeared to be very anxious for peace, but it may all be a suck-in. I have no more to say. I am not in very good humor, as may old squaw ran off a few days ago, or rather went off with Jo. Barraldo, as she liked him better than she did me. If I ever get sight of the young man it will go hard with him.

Yours, truly,

WM. W. BENT.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I

Page 263 Chapter LIII. SKIRMISH NEAR SMOKY HILL CROSSING, KANS.AUGUST 16, 1864.-

Skirmish with Indians near Smoky Hill Crossing, Kans.

REPORTS.

Numbers 1.-Major General James G. Blunt, U. S. Army.

Numbers 2.-Lieutenant Jacob Van Antwerp, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry.

Numbers 1. Report of Major General James G. Blunt, U. S. Army.HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS, Fort Riley, Kans., August 18, 1864.

MAJOR: I am just in receipt of intelligence from Salina, that on the 16th instant seven men of Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, en route to Smoky Hill Crossing, were attacked by a party of Indians estimated from 100 to 300. Four of the party were killed, the other three made their escape and came into Salina. Messenger with dispatches for Fort Larned was turned back. These dispatches were to direct the commanding officer at Fort Larned to concentrate his force as much as possible, and intercept a party of Indians moving south from the Fort Kearny and Denver road probably it was some of the same party that attacked and killed the men of Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry,

Page 264 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

on the 16th instant. I have written several communications to the general since the 10th instant, urging him if possible to send me more troops, and horses to mount the few I have. I have as yet received no response, and have just learned that the general is absent in Nebraska. Please inform me what I may rely upon in regard to troops and horses. I am entirely powerless to do anything more than to try and hold a few points on the mail route for want of force, and I am informed by Major Fillmore that the term of service of five companies of the First Colorado Cavalry, now on duty in this district, will expire by the 7th of September.Respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAS. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

Major C. S. CHARLOT,

Assist. Adjt. General, Dept. of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth.

Numbers 2. Report of Lieutenant Jacob Van Antwerp, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry.

HEADQUARTERS, Salina, August 17, 1864.

SIR: Six men left this place yesterday morning belonging to Company H, Seventh Iowa, for Fort Ellsworth. They got to Elm Creek about 4 p. m., when they were attacked by from 100 to 300 Indians, 4 of whom were killed, the other two got away. The messenger sent from here arrived at Woodward's ranch and returned with two men, coming in from the battle-field. I have just sent a detachment of ten men, under Lieutenant Booth, up the Republican, which took all the horses fit for duty, but I will send the dispatches through as soon as possible. Lieutenant Helliwell has not arrived here yet. As soon as he gets here I shall go out with all the available forces, as there is undoubtedly a large body of Indians between the Smoky Hill and Saline Rivers.

Yours, truly,

JACOB VAN ANTWERP,

First Lieutenant, Commanding Post.

Captain HENRY BOOTH.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 739 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. C., August 17, 1864.

Lieutenant-General GRANT,

City Point:

GENERAL: I inclosure herewith a copy of a letter* just received from General Pope, from which you will see the difficulty of immediately withdrawing troops form his department and the necessary loss of property and increase of Indian difficulties resulting therefrom. It is a very great mistake to suppose that General Pope has retained an unnecessarily large force in his department. On the contrary I have found him the most ready of all the department commanders to give assistance to other s when asked, certainly quite a contrast to some of the present and former commanders of the Departments of Kansas, Missouri, and Ohio, In additional to the pressing representations of the Governors of Kansas, Nebraska, Idaho, and Colorado, and Generals Curtis, Blunt and so forth, the Indian Bureau and Interior Department all urge the absolute necessity of sending more troops into the Indian country if we wish avoid a general Indian war. Undoubtedly much of this is gotten up by Indian agents and speculators for their own purposes. Nevertheless, in view of existing hostilities in that quarter, the breaking up of the overland mail route, the capture of military posts, and the murder of emigrants, the military authorities will be very seriously blamed if they withdraw the troops now there. It is pretended by the Indian Bureau and the Territorial official that there is undoubted evidence of a much larger combination and a much more extensive Indian war pending in the Northwest than in 1862.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 751 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

SPECIAL ORDERS,

HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NORTH KANSAS, Numbers 87.

Fort Leavenworth, August 17, 1864.

1. Colonel L. S. Treat, Twelfth Kansas State Militia, will call into the U. S. service for thirty days 260 men to go against the Indians. They will be furnished with arms, ammunition, and rations of hard bread,

Page 752 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

salt, coffee, and sugar. The men will receive no pay, as per agreement, and will move forward from Atchison as soon as possible. The arms and ammunition will be returned to Fort Leavenworth at the end of the expedition.

* * * * * *By order of Brigadier General T. A. Davies:D. J. CRAIGIE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

KEARNY, August 17, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Omaha:

All the mounted force I have is now on the Republican. Will probably hear from there to-day. I just completed a corral here, and will make all the temporary works I can for the protection of troops. Cottonwood is entirely inclosed with pickets and can be easily held. I am just informed the Indians attacked a post fifteen miles this side of Denver yesterday. They also made their appearance eight miles west of here last night. I am just going west to see how the thing looks. Will be back in three hours.

ROBT. S. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.COTTONWOOD, August 17, 1864.

General MITCHELL,

Kearny:

Detachment I sent out to help stages reported attacked. Sent orderly back says no fight, but Indians plenty in every direction. Were shooting arrows into cattle so as not to kill them, but leaving them stick.

GEO. M. O'BRIEN,

Major, Commanding.

(Copy to Major-General Curtis.)

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, August 17, 1864.

Captain CHARLES KERBER,

First Cavalry of Colorado:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to inform you that Lieutenant Shoup, who is in pursuit of the party of guerrillas who have recently been committing depredations in this vicinity, writes from Pueblo, under date of August 13, 1864, that he has captured a portion of Reynolds' party, and has learned that re-enforcements to the party are expected at Ute Mountain Valley and various other localities. Lieutenant Shoup is pressing them hard, and they may come in your directions. The colonel commanding directs that you keep a lookout for them.I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Page 753 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, August 17, 1864.

Brigadier General JAMES H. CARLETON,

Commanding Department of New Mexico, Santa Fe, N. Mex.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your communication of 8th instant, notifying me of the force sent to the Cimarron Crossing also copy of your letter to Lieutenant Colonel William McMullen, dated Santa Fe, August 1, 1864, in reference to the same matter. I transmit herewith copy of letter from Lieutenant George L. Shoup, First Cavalry of Colorado, dated Pueblo, Colo. Ter., August 13, 1864, relative to a party of guerrillas who have been committing depredations in this Territory.

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

J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Colonel First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding District.

[Inclosure.]

PUEBLO, COLO. TER., August 13, 1864.

Lieutenant J. S. MAYNARD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Dist. of Colorado:

SIR: I have the honor to inform you that the detachment of Company H, left at Beaver Creek, arrived here about noon to-day with three more of the robbers. They were taken this morning at Mr. Conley's ranch, on Beaver Creek, where they came in for breakfast. They were arrested by Mr. C.[onley] and others just as they sat down to eat. I have questioned them apart, and find that their several versions correspond in the following: We left Texas on or about the 11th of April, under James Reynolds, to go into Colorado to recruit for the Confederate army, by order of (or permission of) General Cooper. They were twenty-two strong. On the Cimarron road they robbed a train, from which they took about $1,800 in specie and about the same in greenbacks. They then returned to Fort Belknap, Tex., to dispose of their mules and send their money home. The mules were divided equally. Thirteen of their party then refused to come up here with Reynolds. The prisoners think that the thirteen men went into New Mexico to plunder there. They state also that a party of fifty or sixty men started about the same time they did last June (12th) to come into Colorado on a similar mission to that of theirs. They have not heard from them since say they may have gone into New Mexico. They think the roads into New Mexico will be lined with guerrillas. They say that no money was cached on the Cimarron or elsewhere by them. When told that Holderman reported that they had hid money there they gave him the lie, saying that everything was divided equally and their several portions sent home. Much more of interest can be told you by them or by me on my return. They say that Holderman was on picket at the time their party was attacked by the citizens of the mountains. Lieutenant Chase has just arrived from twenty miles up the river says he has two of the band corralled in a large bottom covered with all kinds of verdure. He had not men enough to watch all the avenues of escape and search at the same time he therefore placed men on guard until more men can go up. We are determined to catch all of the rascals. I have all the roads and trails leading south so well guarded that I think it impossible for them to escape us. A man who is driving a herd of cattle to Denver for Thomas Pollock says: "While coming thorough the Moscow Pass a man came to me mounted on fine horse

Page 754 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

had two good revolvers and a fine citizen rifle said he was en route for the Ute Mountain Valley, where he would meet twenty-five men that day to join Reynolds' party said they had a camp over there, pointing in the direction of the Cucharas said more men would join them from other localities and gave the names of many." My informant remembers the names only of Ed. English. Charles Donelson, and Jimmy Austin, with all of whom he was well acquainted says they are hard men and old jail birds. My informant will be in Denver in a few days, with whom you can have a personal interview. I think his story much exaggerated, but give it for your information just as I received it. However, the Mexicans tell of a band of armed men on head of the Cucharas, which seems to confirm the former statement. I will look after them before returning to Denver. It is my wish that this letter be not made pubic.I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,

GEO. L. SHOUP,

First Lieutenant, First Cavalry of Colorado.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE NORTHWEST,

Milwaukee, Wis., August 17, 1864.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,

Chief of Staff of the Army, Washington, D. C.:

GENERAL: Your telegram of yesterday has just been received. It is to be regretted that misrepresentations from irresponsible persons, necessarily ignorant of the facts concerning the official business of army officers charged with responsible duties, and concerning the number of troops under their command, are made to the authorities of the Government but as such always has been and no doubt always will be the case, there is no remedy, except to submit. I particularly regret, however, that such irresponsible statements should have any weight with the Government or with any of the military authorities in the face of the official return s made from this department. To this, also, my duty as an officer requires me to submit without complaint but I respectfully represent that such a course renders the position of any officer very mortifying and very hard to bear. I have fully stated, in my letter to you of the 12th instant, the number and position of the troops in this department. I have the honor to request that a copy of that letter be furnished to Lieutenant-General Grant. Under present circumstances it is not, in my judgment, possible at present to send away any of these troops until they are replaced without exposing to the certainty of formidable Indian raids the entire frontier, and causing the depopulation of all the frontier settlements. Whether the Government is willing that this should be done, and is ready to resist the reasonable and general outcry it would occasion in the frontier States, I am not able to judge. Already I have sent away many more men than we approved by the district commanders on the frontier, who have written me repeated letters setting forth the absolute need of troops I have already sent South.

Of course the exact condition of affairs on the frontier is better known to me than it can possibly be to anybody not possessed of the same accurate and constant information. Upon that knowledge I base my opinions, and have made up the judgment which I have several times communicated to you. It is possible that I may be wrong, but I have judged by the best lights attainable by anybody, and with no view

Page 755 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

other than the public interests. If the General-in-Chief thinks differently, I am prepared to obey any order he may give me, and I will, on his order, send off all or as many troops from the department as in his opinion can be spared. As I have before stated, it is my own opinion, in view of all the facts in my possession, that no part of the small force on duty in this department can be sent away at present without imminent danger to all the frontier settlements until the troops sent off are replaced by others. As soon as the First U. S. Volunteers reaches me a number of troops equally great will be sent South, to be allowed by others as soon as possible. All troops now in this department are so far out on the frontier that the time specified in my letter of the 12th will be needed to assemble them at the nearest points where transportation can be furnished.I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNO. POPE,

Major-General, Commanding.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 762 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

OMAHA, NEBR. TERR., August 18, 1864.

Major-General HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

General Mitchell telegraphs from Fort Kearny that Captain Murphy encountered 500 well-armed Indians on Elk Creek, near Republican. Had a fight, killed 10 Indians and lost 2 soldiers drove Indians ten miles, but had to fall back, pursued by Indians thirty miles.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 18, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Omaha, Nebr. Ter.:

Your dispatch from Omaha received last night. Matters here quiet all well. Mrs. Fisk and family arrived yesterday. General McKean has arrested the operator at Paola, and complains of the operators here.

Page 763 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

By General Sykes's order I sent one of the operators here to Paola by this morning's stage. The scare at Paola has passed over. General McKean renews his application for leave of absence. General Sykes has gone into the country and General Davies to Atchison. Mayor McDowell complaints of Mathews and Major McKenny has investigated. Over forty stepped out as having been forced into the ranks. Colonel Chivington telegraphs that they and corn contractors ought to be awarded to some one immediately. Indian difficulties increasing.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 18, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Omaha, Nebr. Ter.:

News from Blunt to the 15th. Indian outrages continue. He asks for Captain Mobley's company, Seventeenth Kansas. Shall I send McKean a mounted cavalry, in view of Captain Conkey's withdrawing from Fort Scott? A. C. Wilder is going to Washington in a few days and urges you to ask the War Department for authority for you to raise a cavalry regiment. It can be raised at once from the Fifth, Sixth, and Tenth Kansas, now here being mustered out. He wants you to make the military argument and he is confident of success.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 18, 1864.

Major S. S. CURTIS:I want the Ohio troops going to Colorado. My advance moves to-day. I go forward on telegraph line to-morrow. All well. How are matters at headquarters?

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 18, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Omaha, Nebr. Ter.:

The Ohio troops left last Monday morning for Fort Kearny. All well and all right here.

S. S. CURTIS,

Major and Aide-de-Camp.

Page 764 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF UPPER ARKANSAS,

Fort Riley, Kans., August 18, 1864.

Major CHARLOT,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

I am just in receipt of intelligence from Salina that on the 16th instant seven men of Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, en route to Smoky Hill Crossing, were attacked by a party of Indians estimated from 100 to 300. Four of the party were killed, the other three made their escape and came into Salina. Messenger with dispatches for Fort Larned was turned back. These dispatches were to direct the commanding officer at Fort Larned to concentrate his force as much as possible, and intercept a party of Indians moving south from the Fort Kearny and Denver road. Probably it was some of the same party who attacked and killed the men of Company H, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, on the 16th instant. I have written several communications to the general since the 10th instant urging him, if possible, to send me more troops, and horses to mount the few I have. I have as yet received no response and have just learned that the general is absent in Nebraska. Please inform me what I may rely upon in regard to troops and horses. I am entirely powerless to do anything more than to try and hold a few points on the mail route for want of force, and I

Page 765 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

am informed by Major Fillmore that the term of service of five companies of the First Colorado Cavalry, now on duty in this district, will expire by the 7th of September.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. G. BLUNT,

Major-General.

FORT KEARNY, August 18, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS:

Captain Murphy has just returned from the Blue. Undertook to go from the Blue to the Republican. Got as far as Elk Creek. Met 500 well-armed Indians had a fight killed 10 Indians and lost 2 soldiers. Was compelled to fall back after driving Indians ten miles. Indians followed him thirty miles on his retreat. Things look blue all around this morning.

ROBT. B. MITCHELL,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.OMAHA, August 18, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Fort Kearny, Nebr. ter.:

General Curtis has issued the horses already purchased, about sixty, to the First Nebraska, and started them out. I will get horses to David as soon as possible. First Nebraska leaves this morning for the west. Five hundred horse equipments have been turned over at Fort Leavenworth for shipment here.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

DENVER, COLO., August 18, 1864.

(Received 10.50 p. m.)

Honorable E. M. STANTON:

Extensive Indian depredations, with under of families, occurred yesterday thirty miles south of Denver. Our lines of communication are cut, and our crops, our sole dependence, are all in exposed localities, and cannot be gathered by our scattered population. Large bodies of Indians are undoubtedly near to Denver, and we are in danger of destruction both from attacks of Indians and starvation. I earnestly request that Colonel Ford's regiment, Second Colorado Volunteers, be immediately sent to our relief. It is impossible to exaggerate our danger. We are doing all we can for our defense.

JNO. EVANS,

Governor.

DENVER, August 18, 1864.

Major-General CURTIS,

Commanding Department:

The Indians attacked the settlements thirty miles south of this place yesterday, burning ranches and killing families of settlers. We are in danger of starvation, as our sparsely settled population cannot gather

Page 766 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

their corps, and both our lines of communications are cut. We look to you to keep the Platte line open otherwise our condition is hopeless. We are doing all we can for our defense.

JNO. EVANS,

Governor of Colorado Territory.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, August 18, 1864.

Major S. C. CHARLOT,

Asst. Adjt. General, Dept. of Kansas, Fort Leavenworth:

Have honor to report that Indians are all around us. All troops out after guerrillas. Six of these caught and killed. Hundred-days' regiment will fill up in ten days perhaps. Utes are threatening. Have proclaimed martial law, and am preparing for defense as fast as I can. Have large number of negroes here. Can easily raise a company for 100 days most likely two or three. Can I do it? Needed immediately for defense against Indians.

J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Colonel, Commanding District.

CAMP FILLMORE, August 18, 1864.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL:

SIR: I am pleased to inform the headquarters of the District of Colorado of my arrival at Camp Fillmore as per order. Affairs are very exciting in this locality, caused by Indian difficulty. Yesterday I found, some eight miles below here, the dead bodies of three men who had been murdered by Indians on Sunday last. There was a woman along and probably carried off in captivity, as no trace could be found of her. I may add that I sent out scouts in all directions endeavoring to find all that I could in relation to the matter. I also found one Government wagon (six-mule) and one ambulance, which I brought with me. There was in the wagons some household furniture, probably belonging to the family that composed the party, the names of which as far as I can learn are Bennett, a teamster, Snyder, a Government blacksmith in the employ of Lieutenant Cossitt, and Colonel Boone, says that Dyer, of Company F, and his wife were along. I do not know whether they were or not. The inhabitants in this settlement are much excited, and a great many think of abandoning their farms. I have persuaded some of them to remain, and I will afford them all the protection in my power. As there is a great deal of corn now in the process of ripening I consider it my duty to encourage the inhabitants to gather and save all they can. I presume that there is more grain raised from this point to Pueblo than all the rest of the Territory. The people seem perfectly willing to protect themselves, but only a few have arms and ammunition, and they seem afraid to organize in militia companies for fear that they may be ordered in other parts of the Territory and leave their homes and crops. I am not camping on the site of old Camp Fillmore, but about half a mile this side. This bottom (the one the camp is situated on) is grown up with all rank weeds and is very wet and muddy, and very unfavorable for military purposes. I think (without I get orders to the contrary) I shall move a few miles up the

Page 767 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

river, where I can get batter grass for my stock. Please send instructions on this point. Forage for horses I think can be procured in this country at very fair rates even now, and probably much cheaper later in the season. The Indians that murdered that party are without doubt the same band or party that stole twenty-eight head of stock the day before at Point of Rocks, and killed the stage stock at the station, and as near as I can learn they numbered about forty or fifty, and probably a wandering war party and many miles away by this time, but how soon they will return is another things. I left ten men with Lieutenant Hill at the Point of Rocks and I have sent for him to come up as soon as possible and join his company, for it is very small at the best. I have but thirty-eight me with my command, sick and all. I had an order to send ten men with Major Fillmore. What veterans I have ut have joined some company near Denver. I really need my whole company at the present, and I do not know but that more men are needed than them. Captain Pollock's corn train came up the river with me, which was very fortunate in regard to our forage. I do not know what we would do without it. You will please send me some instructions in regard to matters.

Sir, I am your obedient servant,

ISAAC GRAY,

Captain Co. E, First Cavalry of Colorado, Commanding Camp Fillmore.

P. S.-I forgot to mention that the houses or quarters and stables and corrals at Camp Fillmore have been entirely destroyed by fire and the floods.

I. GRAY,Captain, &c.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 773 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.WASHINGTON, August 19, 1864-3.40 p. m.

Major-General ROSECRANS, Saint Louis, Mo.:

If the Second Colorado Cavalry can be possibly spared give it to General Curtis to use against the Indians on the plains. The men know the country.

H. W. HALLECK,

Major-General and Chief of Staff.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 775 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

GENERAL ORDERS,

HDQRS. DIST. OF THE UPPER ARKANSAS, Numbers 2.

Fort Riley, Kans., August 10, 1864.

I. The period of service of Captain H. G. Loring, Tenth Kansas Volunteers, aide-de-camp and acting assistant adjutant-general of the District of the Upper Arkansas, having expired, he is hereby relieved from duty, to enable him to be mustered out of the service. In relieving Captain Loring the general commanding takes pleasure in bearing testimony to the ability and faithfulness with which he has discharged his duties during his official connection with him.

II. Lieutenant J. E. Tappan, aide-de-camp, Second Colorado Cavalry, is hereby announced as acting assistant adjutant-general, District of the Upper Arkansas. All communication will be addressed to him accordingly.

By command of Major-General Blunt:

J. E. TAPPAN,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,HDQRS. DIST. OF THE UPPER ARKANSAS, Numbers 9.

Fort Riley, Kans., August 19, 1864.

* * * * * *

II. Captain Henry Booth, Company L, Eleventh Kansas Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the post of Fort Riley, Kans., and will relieve Captain D. S. Malven, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, who is dismissed the service by order of the President, by virtue of Special Orders, Numbers 232, Adjutant-General's Office, Washington, D. C., July 9, 1864.

* * * * * *

By command of Major General James G. Blunt:

J. E. TAPPAN,

Aide-de-Camp.

OMAHA, August 19, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Fort Kearny:

General Curtis left Fort Kearny this morning. One company militia left Nebraska City yesterday for the west-Junction Ranch, I think.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

WAR DEPARTMENT,

Washington City, August 19, 1864.

Governor EVANS,

Denver City:

Orders have been sent General Rosecrans to send the Colorado regiment of cavalry to your Territory if he can possibly spare it.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part I

Page 265 Chapter LIII. SCOUT ON THE REPUBLICAN RIVER, KANSAUGUST 19-24, 1864.

-Scout on the Republic River, Kans.Report of Lieutenant William Booth, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry.

HEADQUARTERS, Clay Centre, Kans., August 24, 1864.

GENERAL: In accordance with instructions from headquarters District of Upper Arkansas, I have the honor to make the following report:In compliance to orders from Captain Booth I marched my detachment to this place. Arriving here I found that Captain Schooley had proceeded with the militia up the Republic River. Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon, of the Fifteenth Kansas Militia, with a detachment of

Page 266 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

twelve men from the Fourteenth Kansas Militia, having arrived, I proceeded up the river and encamped on Peach Creek, ten miles from this point, this being August 19. August 20, broke camp at daylight, and after marching thirty-five miles camped for the night at Lake Sibley. August 21, moved out again at daylight, marching up the north side of the Republican twenty-five miles until I struck a large trail, which I supposed to be trail made by the command under Brigadier-General Sherry, of the State militia. Following this about five miles I crossed the river and continued up on the north side of White Rock Creek about six miles, when the trail bearing to the north I crossed the creek and moved up the south side about three miles and camped, marching about forty miles this day. August 22, being in the Indian country, and knowing their habit of making a dash at or near daylight, I had the camp aroused at 3 a. m. Left camp at daylight marched up the creek about fifteen miles, examining the opposite side (it being very hard to cross) with a spy-glass. I explored the creek up to the Big Bend, where it was said a large body of Indians were encamped with their stock, but found nothing. Striking a southeast course for the Republican, scouting Salt Marsh and its creeks, I arrived at Lake Sibley and camped for the night. August 23, divided the command and sent six men, under Lieutenant Pierce (militia), down the south side, and with my command came to Peach Creek on its north side encamped for the night. August 24, arrived at these headquarters about 10 a. m. with stock very much reduced from want of forage and in bad shape for want of shoeing.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM BOOTH,

Second Lieutenant Company L, Eleventh Kansas Cavalry Vols.

Major General J. G. BLUNT,

(Through Lieutenant J. E. Tappan, aide-de-camp.)

____________________________

Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 788 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.COLUMBUS, NEBR. TER., August 20, 1864.

Major S. C. CHARLOT:

Don't move troops from district to district without seeking instructions. If I cannot be reached by telegraph, confer with General Sykes and Davies if possible. I do not think any more cavalry should go to

Page 789 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

General Blunt from Eastern District, but one or two 100-days' companies might go. McKean's district is most liable to rebel assault. The general cannot be spared now. It will not do to allow negroes to vote themselves on pretense of force. Whites could hardly be trusted in such proceedings. Hay and corn contractors are referred to Captain Insley. Everything from Colorado is sensational. I am moving matters here, but militia rather slow. Send dispatch to Blunt. Tell him I expect to have force on Republican soon. Indians seen congregating there. I want him to take care of Arkansas line and co-operate without regard to Northern District line. If necessary, militia must help him. Have this expressed from Lawrence. All well, but weary.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

PAOLA, August 20, 1864.

Major C. S. CHARLOT:

I have directed Colonel Blair to send Captain Conkey's command to Council Grove, and failing to receive orders there to proceed on to Fort Riley.

THO. J. McKEAN,

Brigadier-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 20, 1864.

General McKEAN,

Paola, Kans.:

General Curtis telegraphs from Columbus, Nebr. Ter., that General McKean cannot be spared now. He considers your district the most liable to attack from rebels. General Crocker is ordered to New Mexico. Conservative of this morning vindicates you in the militia matter.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

COLUMBUS, NEBR. TER., August 20, 1864.

Captain GOVE,

South Side of Platte:

I found no tidings from you at Sline's Ferry, but people said troops had been passing on the road you are supposed to be on. I must hurry on to Kearny, but hope to hear from you before leaving this place. This is the Loup Fork, and over this branch I heard the Platte can be forded almost anywhere. I know of no Indians near you, but you had better be cautious, and if difficulty appears formidable, cross over to the north side. i shall keep a small post here.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

P. S.-I have directed troops from Nebraska City to Junction Station, about fifty miles east of Kearny, where the Leavenworth and other lines come into the Platte Valley road. If you find other troops there and require a little rest, you may report from there by express. I expect to be at Fort Kearny, and will try and send out provisions and forage there to meet you.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

Page 790 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII. OMAHA, NEBR. TER., August 20, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL:

Lieutenants Schenck and Williams leave this morning. First Nebraska arrived at columbus at 9 p. m. last night.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 20, 1864.

Colonel R. R. LIVINGSTON,

Columbus (or next telegraph station):

McClellan left 19th Ribble and Curran 18th. Weatherwax, retained here by Major Blacker, goes to-day with detachment of twenty men. Communicate at telegraph stations with General Mitchell, at Kearny.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 20, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,Denver City:Your dispatch of yesterday received and forwarded to General Curtis. Ammunition train (nine wagons) for Denver loaded on the 12th instant probably by this time somewhere in the vicinity of Marysville.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 793 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.CAMP IN PLATTE VALLEY, August 21, 1864.

(Received 22nd.)

Major-General ROSECRANS,

Commanding Department of the Missouri:

Governor Evans informs he has an order for the Second Colorado as soon as you can spare them. I hope it will be soon. I am after the Indians, and need more troops to keep overland lines open and check Indian outrages.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

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Series I, Volume XLI, Part II

Page 796 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII

FORT LEAVENWORTH, August 21, 1864.

COMMANDING OFFICER,

Lawrence:

Send the following to General Blunt, Fort Riley, by express messenger:

Major-General BLUNT:

Information is received at Atchison that a force of Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Shawnees, other tribes, Mexicans, and rebels is encamped on Walnut Creek, of the Arkansas, intending a raid upon Kansas. General Curtis telegraphs me from Columbus, Nebr. Ter., that he does not think any more cavalry can go to you from Eastern District, but one or two 100-days' companies might go. I will send Captain Mobley's company at once. General Curtis expects to have a force operating soon on Republican. Indians seen congregating there. He wants you to take care of the Arkansas line and co-operate with regard to North District line. If necessary militia must help you. McKean telegraphed me yesterday that Captain Conkey's force were ordered to Council Grove, and if they met no orders there they were to go on to Riley.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 21, 1864.

Brigadier General ROBERT B. MITCHELL,

Fort Kearny:

There is another militia company at Falls City. I have directed them to proceed to Junction Ranch to join others. Please send me word as soon as decided to what point and what amount of subsistence is to be sent. Mitchell got very drunk failed to accompany Lieutenant Schenck as ordered, and returned without leave. I placed him in guard-house. Will send him to-morrow.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

OMAHA, August 21, 1864.

Colonel O. P. MASON,

Commanding Territorial Militia, Nebraska City:

Have the Falls City company proceed immediately to Junction Ranch and join the others. I telegraph in accordance with Governor Saunders' request.

JNO. PRATT,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

Page 797 Chapter LIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLORADO,

Denver, August 21, 1864-3 a. m.Major W. F. WILDER,

Third Regiment Colorado Cavalry:

MAJOR:

The colonel commanding directs that you forthwith arm and equip Companies A and B of your regiment, and put them in complete readiness for the field. You will make requisitions on quartermaster's, ordnance, and commissary departments for what may be necessary for the above purpose. Also notify Captain Nichols, at Boulder, to fill up his company at once and arm them, and have him hold himself in readiness for marching orders. Also to notify recruiting officers for the Third Regiment Colorado Cavalry that they must arm and drill, holding themselves subject to call at short notice. A statement of the number of men now recruited, with their present localities, is desired.

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

JNO. C. ANDERSON,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

(Copies of the above furnished to non-commissioned officer commanding detachment Colorado City Captain Gill, Colorado militia, en route to Colorado Captain Isaac Gray, commanding Camp Fillmore.)

CAMP ON THE ARKANSAS, August 21, 1864.

Colonel J. M. CHIVINGTON,

Commanding District of Colorado:

SIR: I have moved my camp up the river near Colonel Boone's ranch. My object in doing this is several reasons: First, is the very unhealthy location of the bottom contiguous to old Camp Fillmore, which consists of nothing at present but tall weeds, stagnant water, and mosquitoes. I camped just as near the original camp as I could find a suitable place. The grass, one of the most desirable things in a cavalry camp in country, is also of a very inferior kind, being tall and rank, such as horses do not like, and another thing they have up this way large fields of corn, being unprotected by fences or anything of that kind. I concluded to move up this side of that bottom altogether. There is another thing that I wish to call your attention to-the fact that the ranchmen were extremely glad to have soldiers come and protect their property and lives, but still at same time charge 75 cents per dozen for roasting ears, a bit a pound for pumpkins and squashes, and such corresponding prices for everything they have to sell. Wishing to use every endeavor to not only protect their crops from hostile Indians, but also soldiers from pilfering the same (you will find inclosed an order that I have issued), I keep a scout or scouts out the whole time. I have seen or heard of nothing in this immediate neighborhood of Indians or bushwhackers, but I find that they are all around this place committing their depredations. Another thing that I would most respectfully call your attention to: that is, in view that the prospect is not very fair for putting up hay below this place on account of the scarcity of labor, difficulties, &c., I would state that a few hundred tons of hay can be contracted for or purchased here at this point cheaper than any previous contract or at other point on the river. I believe that this would be the best point for stationing troops between here

Page 798 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

and Fort Lyon-good water, dry and healthy, near the Indian reserve, or as near as can be got practicable. The inhabitants below here complain of my moving away from below, but fact is they are not quite so near a good market for selling corn for 75 cents a dozen. No one with any military sense will contend that I can not render as much assistance, and better protect myself here than in that forest of weeds and pandemonium of mosquitoes and another thing will have to be looked at, they expect that every time they get frightened to have a squad of soldiers placed in every one of their door yards. I have, although, got along very well. The soldiers have taken nothing but they have paid for, and I am going to use diligence to see that they do not.

Sir, I am, your obedient servant,

ISAAC GRAY,

Captain, Commanding Company E, First Company of Colorado.