1863 Delegations
President in 1863: Abraham Lincoln
Commissioner of Indian Affairs in 1863: William P. Dole
Feb. 10, 1863: Sun [Baltimore]: [Chippewa]
Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun, Washington, Feb. 9
This morning the delegation of the Chippewas of Lake Superior, who have been here some ten days, held a council in the office of the Indian affairs commisioner [sic] with that functionary and the Secretary and Assistant Secretary of the Interior. The chamber was crowded with spectators,, male and female. Yours, Potomac
Feb. 10, 1863: Alexandria Gazette: [ Chippewa]
Yesterday the delegation of Chippewas of Lake Superior, who have been in Washington for some ten days, held a council in the office of the Indian Affairs Commissioner with that functionary and the Secretary and Assistant Secretary of the interior. The chambers were crowded with spectators.
Feb. 17, 1863: Sun [Baltimore]: [Chippewa]
The delegation of Chippewa Indians now here had an interesting interview this morning with Commissioner Dole, at the Indian office. The commissioner allotted an hour to the interview, and promised to her them from day to day until their statements were fully presented. A venerable chief stated very clearly and concisely the mission of the delegation, which is to obtain the fulfillment of certain treaty stipulations, &c ., and payment for certain lands in the region of Lake Superior, transferred to the uses of the government.
Feb. 21, 1863: Evening Star: [Chippewa: Lake Superior & Mississippi]
The Chippewa Indians
The delegation of the Chippewas of Lake Superior, who have been here for some time past, held a council with the Secretary of the Interior to-day at his office, in the presence of a crowd of ladies and gentlemen. Several of them made set speeches to him repeating (concerning their relations with the Government) according to the interpreter's rendering of their "talk," pretty much what they said in their late council with the chief of the Indian Bureau. A delegation of twenty from the Chippewas of the Mississippi are now on their way hither, according to a telegram received by the Indian Bureau this forenoon.
March 6, 1863: NY Tribune: [Chippewa]
Seeds for the Chippewas.
The delegation of Chippewa Indians to-day waited upon the Hon. Isaac Newton, Commissioner of Agriculture, and were furnished a variety of seeds for planting in their Territory. They expressed such gratification with the numerous products of the soil on exhibition in the Department of Agriculture.
[March 11, 1863: Treaty signed in Washington, D.C. with the Chippewa of Mississippi, Pillager and Lake Winnibigoshish bands]
March 18, 1863: New York Tribune: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa, Ute]
[references the Levenworth Tines, March 13]
Great Indian Delegation on their Way to Washington.
A large delegation of Indians arrived in the city last night, and are stopping at the [Planters?]. They are accompanied by Major Cully, agent for the Upper Arkansas tribe.
Below we give a list of their names and the tribes to which they belong. At St. Jopseh, they expect to meet a large delegation of the Utes. The combined delegations will then represent all the Indians of the Plains, except the Sioux.
Jacob represents the Caddo tribe of Texas Indians [...], who have been driven out of that State by the Rebels, and who are now encamped 150 miles south of Ft. Larned in a destitute condition.
They are on their way to Washington to make a treaty of annuity and peace with their Great Father. They left Denver City on the 1st of February, and came by the Arkansas route. They are complete specimens of Indians, and like the renowned warriors which they claim to be. Interpreter John [...] accompanies them.
The [....], Lean Bear, War bonnet, Standing in the Water, of the Cheyennes, Neva and Spotted Wolf of the Arrapahoes, Ten Bears and Pricked Face of the Comanches, Poor Bear of the Apaches, Yellow Buffalo, Yellow Wolf, Lone Wolf and Squaws, and Little Heart of the Kiowas, and Jacob of the Texas Caddo Indians.
Then [sic] delegation will leave to-day on the Majors, en route for Washington, previous to which they will visit Addis's Art Gallery for the purpose of having their photographs taken.
March 23, 1863: New York Herald: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Arrival of an Indian Delegation.
A delegation of the wild Indians from Colorado, North Texas arrived in the city last evening. They present the Cheyennes, Kiowas, Cadoes, Apa[che], Camanches and Arapahoes. It is urged th[at it?] will be better for the government to load with [sic] presents costing a few thousands, than to s[pend?] millions to avenge the outrages the rebels will stir [up if?] they do not go home satisfied. It was only after [some?] persuasion they came to see the great father. The [...]Indian massacres in Minnesota should teach a deep [lesson?] of wisdom on this subject.
March 23, 1863: Alexandria Gazette: [unid., prob. Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
A number of wholly uncivilized Indians, from the Far West, have arrived in Washington. Upon their arrival, their clothing, for the season, was extremely "scanty."
March 24, 1863: Evening Star: [Apache, Arapaho, Caddo, Cherokee, Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
Negotiation with the Indians.--The Commissioner of Indian Affairs had a satisfactory conference yesterday with representatives of the Cherokees, Kiowas, Camanches, Acapatos [sic], Apaches, and Chuddos [sic]. These Indians are from the Rocky mountains, Denver, the borders of New Mexico and Utah, and the tribes are scattered over a distance of some hundred miles. A delegation of Utahs are expected this week. The object of the government is to concentrate them so as to render more safe the routes to the gold mines and travel toward the Pacific, and to conclude with them treaties of peace.
March 24, 1863: New York Tribune: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Comanche, Chey., Kiowa; Ute]
[reprint of March 24, Star article in re negotiations with the Indians]
March 24, 1863: Sun [Baltimore]: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Comanche, Chey., Kiowa; Ute]
[reprint of March 24, Star article in re negotiations with the Indians]
March 24, 1863: Alexandria Gazette: [unid]
Two of the uncivilized Indians on a visit to Washington, came to this place this morning. They attracted general attention as they walked along the streets.
March 24, 1863: Daily National Intelligencer: [Apache, Arapaho, Caddo, Cheyenne, Comanche,
Mrs. De Villiers' Concert. Kiowa]
The Chiefs of the Arapahoes, Cheyennes, Comanches, Apaches, Kiowas, and Caddoe Indians, now in this city, have been invited to attend the concert of Mrs. E. De Villiers, at Willard's Hall, this evening, and they have accepted the invitation.
March 26, 1863: Evening Star: [Apache, Cheyenne, Comanche, Kiowa & unid.]
Interview with the Indians.--The chiefs of Apaches, Comanches, Kiowas, Cheyennes and other roaming tribes in the region of Pike's Peak and New Mexico, yesterday had an audience with the Secretary of Interior. The latter spoke of the fact that they had come a long way to witness the power and glory of the Government of the United States, but all that they had seen was but a small matter in comparison with things as they really existed. He spoke in the name of the President, desiring that a treaty might be entered into, and that the white and red men might live on terms of peace and amity. Several of the chiefs responded, to the effect that the Great Spirit had given them lands, buffalo and deer, with fishes in the streams, and gold. These had all been used by the whites, who had treated them with indignity in crossing the plains. They wanted compensation in the shape of presents. They would make treaties with the Government, but never with the Utes and Pawnees.
March 26, 1863: Daily Morning Chronicle: [unid., but Apache, Arap., Caddo, Comanche, Chey., Kiowa]
An interview with the Indians--these aboriginal inhabitants of the Far West had an interview with the Secretary of the Interior yesterday, in the rooms of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. There were present the Secretary, Assistant Secretary, the Commissioner, and quite a number of official gentlemen, and some spectators, among whom were a number of ladies. The consultation elicited some interesting facts appertaining to the situation and condition of these tribes. They were addressed by the Secretary, and several of the chiefs replied through their interpreter. They certainly display a considerable natural eloquence, and show conclusively that though unfamiliar with civilized life, they nevertheless understand the system of gain and profit. When told that the president whom they call the Great Father, had may great cities which many white men had not seen, they were readily drew the inference that if the Great Father was so rich he could well afford to make them handsome presents. They have an eye evidently to the question of gain, and are looking sharp to the main chance, as they understand it. It is expected that they will have an interview to-day with the President. They are well affected towards the United States, and their visit to Washington at this time cannot fail to be of advantage to themselves and the Government.
March 26, 1863: New York Herald: [Apache, Arapaho, Comanches, Caddo, Kiowa]
Our Indian Visitors.
The Indian chiefs of the roaming tribes about New Mexico and Pike's Peak had an interview to-day with Secretary Usher. He described to them the extent of power of this country, and said that the government was desirous of living in terms of peace with the red men. The chiefs replied, in substance, that their hunting grounds, game and gold had been taken away from them by the whites, and they wanted presents to compensate for the damages. One chief expressed surprise that the Great Father was not present. He would only say now that he wanted to return to the tribes in carriages drawn by horses, in order to show that he had been to see a great chief. He wanted to be overwhelmed with presents, so that he might shine like a looking glass.
March 27, 1863: Evening Star: [Apache, Arapaho, Comanches, Caddo, Kiowa]
The President and the Wild Indians.
The delegation of wild Indians of the Plains now on a visit to Washington, accompanied by their interpreters and agents, called upon the President at the Executive Mansion this forenoon. A rumor of their intended call brought together a large assemblage of gentlemen and ladies, including a number of foreign ministers and their families, the Secretary of the Interior, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, the Hon. D. S. Dickinson, Lord Lyons, Secretaries Chase and Seward, M. Lisboa's family, ex-Gov. Bashford, Amos Reed, Esq., Secretary to the Superintendent of Indian Affairs in Utah, and others of note.
The savages were dressed in full feather--buffalo robes, Indian tanned, and bead worked leggings, with a profusion of paints upon their faces and hair, &c., &c. On entering the East Room they squatted themselves down upon the floor in a semicircle--fourteen chiefs and two squaws--and were instantly surrounded by the curious crowd, quite as gaudily if not quite so fantastically enparisoned.
After a delay of fifteen minutes, the President entered, and was formally introduced to each of the chiefs, all the men being leading chiefs of their respective tribes--Apaches, Arrapahoes, Comanches, Shianes [sic, = Cheyenne], Kioe [sic = Kiowa], Caddoes, &c.,--for their respective titles--War Bonnet, Stands In the Water, Yellow wolf, Yellow Buf[falo]... Bear, Jacob, &c.
The President remarked to the interpreter that he was too [CHECK] glad to see them here,... and was ready to hear anything they had to say. On this being interpreted to the Indians, Lean Bear answered (in his vernacular) that he had much to say to him, but was so nervous as that he desired a chair on which to sit while making his talk. One was at once procured and he proceeded to deliver himself of quite a lengthy speech, which was interpreted (in paragraphs) by an intelligent interpreter at his side. He expressed his thanks to the interpreter, the agent, and the other whites, who had facilitated them upon their long journey, said the President's invitation for them to come ....had traveled a long way over mountains, rivers and plains, until reaching their villages, where it had been gratefully accepted. They were of different tribes, but were really one people or..., with common interests and customs. He was ready to hear what the President had to say; had no pocket in which to hide his words, but would treasure them in his heart, and would faithfully carry them back to his people. The President he saw lived in splendor, with a far better and finer wigwam than he had at home, yet he too was like the President, a great chief at home.
He asked the President to counsel his white children on the plains, so that there would be no more war between them and the whites, his purpose being to make traveling over the plains as safe to the whites as possible. He wished to live in peace for the balance of his life, on the buffalo, as his fathers had done, while that lasted, and again urged the President to counsel his white children, who were annually encroaching more and more upon their tribes, to abstain from acts of violence and wrong towards them. He deplored, he said, the war between the whites, now being waged, and expressed the determination of the tribes not to take part or sides in it, and said that ...would be hailed with joy by them. As they were all leading chiefs of their respective tribes their return home was necessary, and he asked the President to expedite it, so that they might get there as soon as possible.
At the conclusion of Lean Bear's speech,...chair was occupied by others of the delegation who made "seratim" very similar speeches to the President, (interpreted by paragraphs,) in the same way.
The President then replied and said that he was glad to have this interview with the Indians. They (the Indians) had as yet seen but a small part of the greatness of this country. There were people now looking upon this interview who had travelled many more miles than had the Indians. He would endeavor to have satisfactory treaties made with them, and when made he would see that the treaties were faithfully observed. In regard to their being speedily sent back to their own country, the President said particular arrangements would be made by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. But the Indians must exercise a little patience in the matter.
President Lincoln then bade them farewell, and commencing with Lean Bear, shook hands with them all in turn; each Indian rising from the floor as the President extended his hand.
The interview was satisfactory to all concerned and the Red men appeared specially gratified.
March 27, 1863: Daily National Intelligencer: [Arapaho, Caddo, Cheyenne, Comanche, Kiowa]
[Largely, but not completely the same article as March 27, Star]
Our Indian Relations.
The Executive Mansion yesterday presented a very interesting and animated scene. The President gave an audience to the delegations now here from several tribes of Aborigines from the remoter regions of the Rocky Mountains including principal Chiefs of the Cheyennes and Camanches, the Arrapahoes, the Kios, and the Kaddoes.
The novelty of the occasion prompted those who had charge of the arrangement to send invitations to the Diplomatic Corps, and a number of leading officials and distinguished citizens, and by eleven o'clock a large assemblage of ladies and gentlemen had gathered in the East Room, among whom we noticed the families of the Ministers of France, Prussia, and Brazil, the Secretaries of State, Treasury, Navy, and the Interior; the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and others connected with the Executive Departments.
As the Chiefs entered, accompanied by their Interpreter and Agents, they maintained that dignity or stolidity of aspect characteristic of "the stoics of the woods," and appeared no way moved by the well-dressed crowd or the gorgeous appointments of the apartment. Proceeding, with incurious looks, to the southern end of the East Room, they quietly seated themselves on the carpet in a semicircle, and with an air of resignation to the destiny of greatness "to be gazed at," seemed quite satisfied at the same time with the brilliancy of their own adornings and colorings. It was soon deemed expedient, however, in order to gratify so large an assemblage, to place them along the western side of the apartment and opposite the great folding-doors. By this arrangement every person might have enjoyed the privilege of seeing and hearing, but unfortunately there seems to be an incurable habit among the good people of our country in the house of the Chief Magistrate to press forward and not give an inch to those behind. The President's appearance was a signal for a still more violent pressure in his vicinity. The wild Indians, who were accustomed to so much deference from their tribes, had no doubt their own notions of the manners of the pale-faces.
Each chief was introduced by name to the President. They rose in succession, shook hands with empressement, and on leaving him instantly resumed their seats on the floor. Their designations were quite picturesque: "War Bonnet," "Standing in the Water," "Yellow Wolf," "Yellow Buffalo," "Lean Bear," "White Bull," "Ten Bears," "Little Heart," "Jacob," &c. Two of these aboriginal group were passed over by the introducer, though they sat near the middle of the semicircle. They were the two young brides, with remarkably gentle and amiable faces, in spite of paint and bedizzenry. It was not Indian etiquette to present them to the great Chief of the Palefaces.
The President having signified his pleasure at seeing them all, and his desire to hear their requests, Lean Bear, of the Cheyennes, promptly intimated his readiness to speak but, by his Interpreter, declared that he was so nervous that he would need a chair from which to make his speech. He was immediately accommodated with a comfortable arm-chair, although this request from so vigorous-looking a personage rather startled the spectators. Lean Bear, however, is a natural orator. His tones and gestures are singularly significant. In a most fluent and animated style he addressed the President. Some of his expressions had that natural beauty which only the imaginative among his civilized and refined auditors could appreciate. The President responded with singular felicity. He fell quite naturally into the vein of these forest orators, and thereby showed himself capable of adapting his ideas, his images, and his diction to those whom he addressed. It was a memorable spectacle to all who had an opportunity of seeing it.
March 27, 1863: Lincoln's Speech to the Indians, from Basler, Roy P. The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. The Abraham Lincoln Association, Springfield, Illinois, vol. 6, New Brunswick, N.J.: Rutgers Univ. Press, 1953.
"You have all spoken of the strange sights you see here, among your pale-faced brethren; the very great number of people that you see; the big wigwams; the difference between our people and your own. But you have seen but a very small part of the pale-faced people. You may wonder when I tell you that there are people here in this wigwam, now looking at you, who have come from other countries a great deal farther off than you have come.
"We pale-faced people think that this world is a great, round ball, and we have people here of the pale-faced family who have come almost from the other side of it to represent their nations here and conduct their friendly intercourse with us, as you now come from your part of the round ball."
Here a globe was introduced, and the President, laying his hand upon it, said:
"One of our learned men will now explain to you our notions about this great ball, and show you where you live."
Professor Henry then gave the delegation a detailed and interesting explanation of the formation of the earth, showing how much of it was water and how much was land; and pointing out the countries with which we had intercourse. He also showed them the position of Washington and that of their own country, from which they had come.
The President then said:
"We have people now present from all parts of the globe--here, and here, and here. There is a great difference between this pale-faced people and their red brethren, both as to numbers and the way in which they live. We know not whether your own situation is best for your race, but this is what has made the difference in our way of living.
"The pale-faced people are numerous and prosperous because they cultivate the earth, produce bread, and depend upon the products of the earth rather than wild game for a subsistence.
"This is the chief reason of the difference; but there is another. Although we are now engaged in a great war between one another, we are not, as a race, so much disposed to fight and kill one another as our red brethren.
"You have asked for my advice. I really am not capable of advising you whether, in the providence of the Great Spirit, who is the great Father of us all, it is best for you to maintain the habits and customs of your race, or adopt a new mode of life.
"I can only say that I can see no way in which your race is to become as numerous and prosperous as the white race except by living as they do, by the cultivation of the earth.
"It is the object of this Government to be on terms of peace with you, and with all our red brethren. We constantly endeavor to be so. We make treaties with you, and will try to observe them; and if our children should sometimes behave badly, and violate these treaties, it is against our wish.
"You know it is not always possible for any father to have his children do precisely as he wishes them to do.
"In regards to being sent back to your own country, we have an officer, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, who will take charge of that matter, and make the necessary arrangements."
The President's remarks were received with frequent marks of applause and approbation. "Ugh," "Aha" sounded along the line as the interpreter proceeded, and their countenances gave evident tokens of satisfaction.
[Then follows as a footnote the article from the Washington Daily Morning Chronicle, March 28, 1863.]
March 27, 1863: National Republican: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Grand Council of Indians.
The Cheyenne, Kiowa, Arapahoe, Comanche, Apache and Caddo Indians with the President and Cabinet. Speeches by the President and the Great Chiefs. The Delegation photographed in company with ladies.
March 28, 1863: Daily Morning Chronicle: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
"The Executive Mansion was yesterday morning the scene of a very interesting ceremony. The Indian chiefs now in the city met the President of the United States and had a formal interview with him. The meeting took place in the East room. Quite a number of persons were present, among whom we noticed Secretaries Seward, Chase, and Welles, Daniel S. Dickinson, of New York, Professor Henry, and other celebrated personages. The Indians were all seated on the floor in a line, and around them the spectators formed a ring which, notwithstanding the assiduous yet polite efforts of Mr. Nicolay, was still too contracted to permit all to see the principal actors. The silence, which would seem to be the part of common propriety on such an occasion, was by no means observed by the restless and eager crowd of visitors. Everybody seemed to find some one's bonnet or shoulder in the way, and to think himself or herself entitled to the best and most conspicuous place. The ladies, too, could not refrain from audible comments on the speeches.
"Still everything went off very well. These Indians are fine-looking men. They have all the hard and cruel lines in their faces which we might expect in savages; but they are evidently men of intelligence and force of character. They were both dignified and cordial in their manner, and listened to everything with great interest. At half-past eleven the President entered the circle, and each one of the chiefs came forward and shook him by the hand, some of them adding a sort of salaam or salutation by spreading out the hands, and some contenting themselves with a simple shake of the hand and the inevitable 'how' of the Indians of the Plains. The following is a list of the chiefs:
"Cheyennes.--Lean Bear, War Bonnet, and Standing Water.
"Kiowas.--Yellow Buffalo, Lone Wolf, Yellow Wolf, White Bull, and Little Heart.
"Arapahoes.--Spotted Wolf and Nevah.
"Comanches--Pricked Forehead and Ten Bears.
"Apache.-- Poor Bear.
"Caddo. -- Jacob.
"Mr. Commissioner Dole introduced them, saying:
'Mr. President: We have here some of the chiefs, belonging to the wild tribes of the West,
who desire to have a talk with you on subjects of mutual interest to you and themselves.
These chiefs have expressed a great desire to express their sentiments to you, and to have
the benefit of your advice and counsel.
The Interpreter will introduce each of them by name, and give you, also the name of the
tribe to which he belongs.'
"The President said: 'Say to them I am very glad to see them, and if they have anything to say, it will afford me great pleasure to hear them."
Lean Bear, the chief spokesman, then said that he felt nervous, and would be glad to have a chair, whereupon a chair was placed for him, and being seated in it, he addressed the President, through the interpreter, as follows:
Speech of the Great Chief.
Lean Bear (through the interpreter) expressed his thanks to the Great Chief for his kindness, and the great pleasure it was to him to have this interview. The chiefs who had come with him were of different tribes, but they were all glad to see the Great Chief of the white people and shake him by the hand, and speak their hearts to him. They had come a long way, and wanted his advice and counsel on many matters concerning their condition. He would hear all the Great Chief had to say and when he went away he would not carry it in his pocket, but in his heart, out of which it would not be lost. The President is the Great Chief of the White People; he (Lean Bear) was the Great Chief of the Indians. Their wigwams are not so fine as this, they are small and poor. He hoped the Great Chief would look upon his people with favor, and saying his wisdom what would be best for them to do. They were here to listen to his advice and carry it in their hearts. Where he lives many white people have come to settle. He always wished to be at peace with them. He feared these white men on the plains were not so ready to keep peace towards them as they were towards the white people. He could always endeavor to permit his people from doing anything to [ward?] their ill-will; and if there was trouble, it would not be owing to bad conduct on the art of the Indians. They were sorry that there was great trouble [...] in this country now between the white people. They understood the white men were fighting each other. His nation did not ih to have anything to do with it. They did not understand it, and did not desire to take sides with either party. They wanted nothing but peace towards the white people, and they hoped it would last as long as they lasted. He and his comrades were now far away from their homes. Their families were alone, with nobody to protect them. He hoped the Great Chief would send them back as soon as he could. They wanted to get home.
These remarks were delivered with much animation and a profusion of gestures. At the conclusion he rose from his seat, and Spotted Wolf of the Arapahoes took the chair. He saluted the President with a shake of the hand and a "how," and spoke nearly as follows:
He was very glad to have the opportunity of seeing the Great Chief. They had come a long way to speak with their Great father. They lived on the great plains, they were one people, and lived in peace and friendship. They had come all the way here to get some good counsel from their Great Father. He hoped, when they went back to their nation, they would have something good to tell their people. They would listen to what was told them as he and his comrades would listen to the Great Chief.
He had been treated with great kindness all the way along on his journey; the white people treated them with kindness wherever they met them; until finally they were here in the Great Wigwam, in the presence of their Great Father. He had meet nothing but brothers and friends ever since he came among the whites. He had seen a great many white men, they were all his friends. He hoped they would always remain friends. It appeared to him, like a dream that he was here. When he looked around him and saw all these fine things, it seemed like some kind of magic; he could not tell how he got here, so far away from home. It seemed to him that he must have come on wings--that he must have flown as a bird flied through the air.
The President's Response.
This chief having concluded his remarks, the president said: [see above: March 27, 1863: Lincoln's Speech to the Indians, from Basler, Roy P.]
The President then advanced and passed along the line, shaking hands with each chief, who rose to his feet as Mr. Lincoln came along. When he came to the two squaws they evidently did not expect to be noticed, but as the President paused before them they rose and shook him by the hand with every expression of delight. Those girls will go home highly elated by the honor thus unexpectedly conferred upon them, and will probably boast all their days that they shook hands with the great Chief of the Pale faces. We cannot forbear noticing that Yellow Wolf, of the Kiowas was also "smiled all over," quite against Indian proprieties, when he saluted the president; but what he lost among his brethren, he gained in the good will of the audience, for a buzz ran around the circle, "he is a good fellow," 'there, now, I like that one," at which, if he had understood it, he must have felt highly complimented. The ceremonies being closed, the President retired, and the visitors flocked around the Indians, asking questions of the interpreter, and gazing at their strange attire. We heard Secretary Chase ask the interpreter what proportion of his translation was wards and that proportion gestures The answer was that about two thirds was language.
One of the Kiowa chiefs had around his neck a medal, bearing the head of President Jefferson, which had been given to a former chief of his tribe during the presidency of Mr. Jefferson. He did not know how long it had been in the tribe; he only knew that it descended to him and was prized as one of the most precious possessions of the Kiowa Nation
Secretary Seward requested the chiefs to pay him a visit.
The Commissioner of Agriculture desired them to come to his office, and take home with them some new seeds which have just been brought to this country and are rare here.
They then repaired to the conservatory, where they were photographed. Several ladies stood behind them as they were seated on the ground. Among the ladies were Madame Stoekel, wife of the Russian Minister, Mrs Lisboa, Miss Kate Chase, Miss Lisboa, Miss Gerolt, daughter of the Prussian Minister, and Miss Kennedy.
Thus ended this interesting occasion, which will always be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to be present.
March 28, 1863: National Republican: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa] [2nd same date, ms. Copy; orig. mostly copy of Chronicle of 3/28]
At half-past eleven o'clock this forenoon, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs (Mr. Dole) introduced to the President of the United States a delegation of Indian Chiefs from the Western Plains, viz.: [names not copied by copyist, but would be as above].
Commissioner's Dole's Speech [as reported in the Chronicle]
They are introduced.
The Chiefs were then successively named by the interpreter, each advancing in turn and giving the president a hearty shake of the hand.
Remarks of the President [same as text in Chronicle, March 28
[Various speeches as reported above]
They are photographed with the ladies: At the conclusion of this interesting ceremony the Indians repaired to the Conservatory where, after examining the beautiful exhibition of nature's gift, improved by art, there to be witnessed, and with which they seemed to be delighted, they were requested
To seat themselves in line upon the floor along the East end of the building. In this position, with the following names ladies standing in the immediate rear, forming an interesting and picturesque background, they were photographed by one of Brady's assistants. The ladies were Madame Stoekel, wife of the Russian Minister, Miss [Madame?] Lisboa, Miss Kate Chase, Miss Lisboa, Miss Gerolt, daughter of the Prussian Minister, and Miss Kennedy.
March 28, 1863: New York Tribune (via Assoc. Press): [Arapaho, Caddo, Cheyenne, Comanche,
Washington, Friday, March 27, 1863 Kiowa]
An Indian "talk" with the President.
The Representative Chiefs of the Cheyennes, Arapahoes, Comanches, and other Indian tribes from the Plains, accompanied by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and Superintendent of the Census, visited the Executive mansion to-day for the purpose of having a talk with their "Great Father," the President. They were gaudily dressed for the occasion, and formed a semi-circle, seated on the floor of the East room. Among the many spectators present were the members of the Cabinet, several foreign ministers, and attaches of legation, together with the ladies of their households. In his opening speech one of the chiefs said they had come hither in obedience to the desire of their "Great Father," and were thus far highly gratified with their reception. The invitation had come for them through the air, and dropped down like a bird. This was in allusion to the telegraph message to the Indian Superintendent. The president replied, and in a spirit of encouragement pointed out the difference between the Whites and the Indians, both as to their numbers and social condition. He said the former were great and prosperous, because they depended upon the arts of peace and the fruits of the earth, rather than upon game and buffalo. Although we were engaged in a great and ugly war, yet in the main we were not so much disposed to fight and kill one another as our red brethren had been to slay us. He remarked that it was the desire of the Government to live on terms of peace with them. Care would be taken to have them comfortably returned to their homes. The Indians were evidently pleased with their reception, and parted with the President after the usual handshaking. The object in bringing them to Washington was to impress them with the extent of our country, and the numbers and power of our people, and to conclude with them treaties of peace of vast importance to emigration over the Plains.
March 28, 1863: New York Times: [Arapaho, Caddo, Cheyenne, Comanche, Kiowa]
Visit of the Indians to the White House.
A delegation of six different Indian tribes from the Rocky Mountains, had a most interesting interview with the President at the White House to-day They were: Cheyennes.--Lean Bear, War Bonnet, and Standing Water. Kiowas.--Yellow Buffalo, Lone Wolf, Yellow Wolf, White Bull, and Little Heart. Arapahoes.--Spotted Wolf and Nevah. Comanches--Pricked Forehead and Ten Bears. Apache.-- Poor Bear. Caddo. -- Jacob. Seated on the floor, in a line, in the great east room, they were surrounded by an immense crowd of people, officers of the Government and distinguished visitors. Lean Bear, Spotted Chief, and President Lincoln were the orators. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, the President advanced along the line, shaking hands with each Chief, who rose to his feet as Mr. Lincoln came along. When he came to two squaws, they evidently did not expect to be noticed, but the president paused before them, and they sprang up and shock him by the hand, with every expression of delight. Secretary Seward invited them to visit him at his house. The reception concluded with their being photographed in the Consevatory. Among the ladies who stood behind while they were seated on the ground, and thus formed a part of the group, were Mme. Stoecel, wife of the Russian Minister, Mrs. Lisboa, Miss Kate Chase, Miss Lisboa, and Miss Gerolt, daughter of the Prussian Minister.
March 30, 1863: Evening Star [Ute]
MORE WILD INDIANS.--Seven of the chiefs of the Utes tribe of Indians, from Colorado Territory, west of the Snowy range, arrived in this city Saturday. They are in charge of Major Head, and they have come on to make a treaty with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs.
March 30, 1863: Evening Star: [Apache, Arapaho, Comanche, Caddo, Kiowa]
The Indians at "Grover's" To-night.--Every arrangement has been perfected by which the Indian chiefs will be enabled to see the Davenport Wallack combination in the new romantic play of "St. Marc." They will be seated as follows.--On the right hand of the rear orchestra and front dress-circle seats, next the aisle, front row, Major Collen and lady, J. P. Smith, (interpreter,) Capt. French, (charge,) Yellow Wolf, Lean Wolf, Yellow Buffalo, White Bear; second row, commencing at the aisle, Little Heart and the two squaws, Coy and Etla, of the tribe occupying the first row, (Kiowas), and the following of the Cheyennes--War Bonnet, Stand-in-the-Water, Lean Bear, two Camanches--Prickled Forehead and Ten Bears, two Arrapahoes--Spotted Wolf and Nevah; on the third row, next the aisle, right hand side, one Apache--Poor Bear--and one Caddoe--Jacob.
March 30, 1863: Daily Morning Chronicle: [Apache, Arapaho, Comanche, Caddo, Kiowa]
The Indians To-night at Grover's Theateer.
Manager Grover has extended an invitation to the famous Indian chiefs to be present to-night at the performance of "St. Marc, or the Soldier of Fortune," by the Davenport-Wallack combination. They will be seated about the center of the orchestra in the following order:
Major Colley, the agent, and lady; Colonel French; Mr. J. Smith, the interpreter.
Cheyennes. -- War Bonnet, Stand-in-the-Water, and Lean Bear
Kiowas. -- Yellow Wolf, Lone Wolf, Yellow Buffalo, White Bear, Little Hart, and the squaws, Etla and Coy.
Apache.-- Poor Bear.
Arapahoes. -- Spotted Wolf and Nevah
Comanches.-- Priced Forehead and Ten Bears
Caddo. -- Jacob.
They leave the city in a few days, and being the representatives of the influential tribes in the West--all great fighting nations--they will, with their peculiar paints, costumes, &c, doubtless be great objects of curiosity to the audience.
March 30, 1863: Sun [Baltimore]: [Ute]
The Ute Indians.
Washington. March 29.--A delegation of seven chiefs of the Ute Indians, from Colorado Territory, have arrived here for the purpose of making a treaty. They are wild, and like their immediate predecessors from the plains, came by invitation of the government, but being hostile to them, these Utes, by arrangement, traveled hither separately. The commissioner of Indian Affairs will doubtless meet with much success in hi stipulations with the savages to render more safe the travel to the mines.
April 6, 1863: Evening Star: [Kiowa]
Death of an Indian Chief.--Yellow Wolf, chief of the Kiowa Indians, and who was sent here as one of the delegates to see the President, died on Saturday evening at the Washington House after a short illness, and was buried yesterday afternoon, at the request of the surviving Indians, "as the white brethren were." The Government furnished the coffin, which was a very fine one. About half an hour before the breath left deceased his companions commenced to paint his face, hands and feet with a red paint, and then securing new clothing and new blankets, they arrayed the dying chief in them.
A few moments before expiring Yellow Wolf sent to Major S. G. Colley, the Indian agent for that and other tribes, and taking the agent's hands, said to him: "We have come a great way to see our Great Father, and make peace, I have seen the big father, and am at peace with every one--with the Great Spirit and with the Great Father--and I am now going to lay down and sleep with him here."
As soon as the chief expired, his companions took his bow and arrows and broke them in half. They were then made up in a bundle together with other effects and will be buried with him, as also will his buffalo robes and blankets, and all that he owned at the time of his death. A large silver medal, a present from President Jefferson to Yellow Wolf's ancestors, will be buried with him also. This appears almost ridiculous, as it has been handed down from father to son since the days of President J., and is a connecting link between the present and the past which should be placed in charge of the Government. But the Indians insist upon its interment with Yellow Wolf, and the agents do not desire to offend them by a refusal.
Yellow Wolf was nearly 50 years of age, and Major Colley, the agent of the tribe, and of the Indians in their section, says he is a serious loss, as he was always disposed to peace, and ruled his people justly but firmly. Another strange fact connected with his death is, that when the delegation was about leaving their western homes, the family of Yellow Wolf implored him not to leave, and were so persistent in their efforts to induce him to remain, as to follow the delegation for miles, and with tears and lamentations vainly endeavored to disuade him from going."
April 6, 1863: National Republican: [Kiowa]
"Death of One of the Indians.--Yellow Wolf, one of the Kiowas belonging to the Indian Delegation, was buried yesterday afternoon; his spirit having departed from the Washington House, to the happy hunting grounds Saturday night. According to his last words, he died at peace with President Lincoln and with the Great Spirit. The "noble reds" of his persuasion tattooed him decently for burial and deposited all his valuables in his grave. Yellow Wolf was half a century old."
April 7, 1863: Daily Chronicle: [Kiowa]
"Death of the Kiowa Chief, Yellow Wolf.
The delegation of Indians now stopping at the Washington House have lost one of their number. Yellow Wolf, a Kiowa Chief, died on Saturday evening, about 6 o'clock. Yellow Wolf had been confined about one week, from an attack of pneumonia. From the first appearance of the disease he was attended by Dr. Sherman Major Colley, (who has the Indians in charge,) and John Smith, the interpreter.
Yellow Wolf retained his proper senses to the last, and was fully aware of his approaching departure. He expressed the most earnest desire that his people should remain at peace with the people of the United States. He died with the most implicit faith in his future happiness in the hunting grounds of his Great Father. He would not rest satisfied until his attendants had commenced painting and dressing him for interment, which was accordingly done.
His red brethren were exceedingly grieved at Yellow Wolf's death. He was buried at four o'clock yesterday afternoon in the Congressional Burial Ground, under the directions of Chas. J. Mix, Chief Clerk of the Indian Bureau. The red men expressed admiration and approval, greatly satisfied at their friend's being placed in a coffin.
April 7, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey, Comanche, Kiowa]
The Indians of the West and the White Men of the East.
Maj. Colley, United States Indian Agent, has addressed the following letter to Mr. Barnum, of the Museum. That gentleman, hearing of the presence of the Indian Chiefs in Washington, whither they had gone on matters of business connected with the Government, wrote to Maj. Colley, inviting to this City these distinguished representatives of the aborigines, promising them valuable presents and courteous treatment during their stay. As will be seen by the following letter, Maj. Colley has acceded to the proposition, and the war party of the West will soon make their bows to the white men of the East.
Letter From Major Colley.
Washington, D. C., April 4, 1863
Dear Sir: I have received yours of yesterday. In reply I would state that I am willing to comply with your request. The argument you use--that an opportunity should be afforded them to see New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, &c.-- I admit to be right and just. These great Indian Chiefs under my care, noble and brave as they are, are also very poor. The presents which you assure me they will receive will be most acceptable to them. Those given to them by the public as well as by yourself, will please them beyond my power to express. You are most likely aware that in this respect they resemble children. Indeed, their child like simplicity combined with their prowess and their wisdom, offers a curious study to those not acquainted with Indian character. The twenty chiefs and their squaws include the pick of the following tribes -- the Cheyennes, Kiowas, Apaches, Arrapahoes, Caddos and Comanches. I will give you a few of their names. Among them are Lone Wolf, Yellow Buffalo, White Bear, Little Hart, and the squaws, Etta and Coy, all belonging to the Kiowas. Then there are War-Bonnet, Stand-in-the Water, Lean Bear, Poor Bear, Spotted Wolf, Pricked Forehead and Ten Bear. Their names may sound oddly to you, but you will find the bearers of them to be very pleasant fellows. As they never slept on beds, I must trouble you to procure rooms where they can spread out their blankets and sleep upon the floor. You will also please procure bread, raw beef and coffee, all of which they will cook in their own rude Indian style. They also want some paint and some oil, which can be easily got. I hope to have them in your Museum on or before Wednesday next the 8th inst. As you may guess, however, all our forms of civilized life are irksome to them, and to be confined in a city too long is injurious to their health. So, I can not promise you that they will be contented to remain beyond a few days. I am sure they will prove very interesting, for Indian warriors of their rank, so very recently arrived from their own homes, have not been seen in any of our great cities for many years--if, indeed, at all. The interpreter and myself will accompany them to New-York, and I feel certain that they will be well treated, and everything done to make them happy. Your visitors, in addressing them, will, of course, bear in mind that, though poor according to our ideas of wealth, they are most influential in their own country, and are the bravest best and wisest of their trivbes.
I am dear Sir, Yours, Truly,
S. G. Colley, U.S. Indian Agent
April 8, 1863: Alexandria Gazette: [Apache, Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
The Indian Bureau has entered into a treaty [of] friendship with the representatives if the Kiowas, Camanches and Apaches, by which [th]ey are [to] receive annually $25,000, with agricultural implements, &c., and they agree to [relo]cate themselves remote from the line of the migrant trail. The delegation of Utes now [here] express a friendly disposition, and doubtless a treaty will be made with that tribe during the next summer. The Indian visitors [will] return to their homes this week.
April 8, 1863: New York Tribune: [Apache, Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
[Same article as April 8, Alexandria Gazette]
April 8, 1863: Sun [Baltimore]: [Apache, Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
[Same article as April 8, Alexandria Gazette]
April 8, 1863: National Republican: [Kiowa]
"Indian Sagacity.-- It is said that when the Kiowa Chief, "Yellow Wolf," who died at the Washington House, Saturday night, was about to set out on his journey from Colorado, his relatives clung around him and be sought him with tears not to come here. This incident illustrates the sagacious instincts of the noble reds in a remarkable manner. Who could have told Yellow Wolf's people the condition of the streets in Washington? Who could have "posted" them on high prices of living and the bad whiskey commonly sold here? Or the outrageous weather we are suffering? Ah Yellow Wolf! Yellow Wolf! If thou hadst heeded the instinctive warnings of they squaws, thou mightest have been still upon thine earthly hunting grounds!
April 8, 1863: Daily Chronicle: [Apache, Arapaho, Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Departure of the Colorado Delegation --
Dying Speech of Yellow Wolf.--The chiefs representing the Indian tribes of Colorado Territory left yesterday for there [sic?] homes in the Far West. Previous to leaving, they signed a treaty of amity and friendship with the Government. The cause of their early departure is the death of their chief, "Yellow Wolf," whose memory they hold in sacred veneration.
The message of the dying chief to his nation equals in pathos and eloquence the speech of the celebrated chief Logan, rendered historic by the pen of Thomas Jefferson. "Tell my people," said the dying hero of the wilderness, "that I entreat them with my last breath to live in peace with the pale faces. Tell them that I have seen their "Great Father," and that he has promised to take care of the red man. The Great Spirit has ordained that I should fall asleep beneath the shadow of my Great Father; that I go to the eternal hunting grounds in the full faith that my nation will preserve peace with the sons of the Great Father. I have ever been a friend to the pale face, and the inheritance I would leave to my nation is that they conduct themselves so as to merit the smile of the Great Spirit, which watches alike over the red man and the pale face."
Before leaving, the chiefs requested Commissioner Dole to furnish them each with a letter certifying to their food conduct while in this city. In accordance herewith the Commissioner has caused to be furnished to each of them a certificate, of which the following is a copy.
Department of the Interior, Office of Indian Affairs, April 7, 1863.-- This is to certify that Poor Bear, a member of the Apache tribe of Indians in Colorado Territory, has visited the city of Washington on business connected with the interests of his tribe, and while in that city he has behaved himself in an orderly, and peaceful manner. He has promised his Great Father always to be friendly towards the white men, and never again molest them while passing through his country; and any white man to whom he may show this paper, is requested by the Government to behave towards him in a friendly manner, and to be very careful not to give him any cause to break his promises to his Great Father. W. P. Dole, Commissioner."
Apr. 8, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Arrival of the Indians in this City.
If paint and feathers, wampum and war-hoops, tomahawks and terrible fighters are sufficient to form an attraction, New-York certainly has one now. The Indian chiefs who have been resident in Washington for the past few weeks, conferring with the President and arranging matters pertaining to the interests of their respective tribes, came on to New-York last night, and are to hold a grand "pow-wow" with all who please to go and see them at the Museum to-day. Hitherto, we have had exhibitions of a few poor red men, picked up at random and of no particular standing or ethnological importance; but, in this case, the best men of the wildest Indian tribes extant come to New-York in all the savage grandeur of their untamed wildness. Chingachgcok and Uncas were nothing in comparison. These men are the roamers of the remotest valleys of the Rocky Mountains and include the fierce Camanche and the formidable Arrapahoe, one of them is known as the "Yellow Buffalo," another as the "Lone Wolf" a third as the "Lean Bear," and so on throughout a series of odd zoological appellations. Barnum, it appears, has had to lay in for them an immense stock of raw beef, coffee, bread, red ochre, feathers and oil, they having never yet descended to the degradation of taking their dinner at a table d'hôte, and using anything so absurd as a napkin. Apart from their interest as real unsophisticated Indians, are the facts which should invest them with extrinsic interest to an equal amount, that they come to New-York to see what sort of a thing Civilization is, and to cultivate friendship with our citizens. By all means let them be treated courteously and kindly, so that when they leave for the Far West they may give a good account of New-York hospitality and good taste. They will doubtless attract throngs to the Museum.
Apr. 8, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
Indian Treaty.
The Indian Bureau has entered into a treaty of friendship with the representatives of the Kiowas, Camanches and Apaches, by which they are to receive annually $25,000 worth of agricultural implements, &c., and agree to locate themselves remote from the line of emigrant travel. The delegation of Utes now here express a friendly disposition, and doubtless a treaty will be made with that tribe during the next Summer. These Indian visitors will return to their homes this week."
Apr. 8, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[NOTE: lines marked "++ " are repeated in text]
AMUSEMENTS.
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM.
To-Day April 8, and following days,
AN EXTRAORDINARY SIGHT IN NEW-YORK!++
First appearance of the
GREAT INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS,++
who have just arrived from Washington, where they have been on a visit to their "Great Father," the
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
They are the leading men, the bravest chiefs and best warriors of the most powerful tribes of the Rocky Mountains and Southwestern Territories. They comprise
TWENTY INDIANS AND THEIR SQUAWS++
not one of whom till within the last month has been within the pale of civilization. They represent the different tribes of KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES, CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
Among them are the valorous and distinguished
Lone Wolf, Little Heart, War Bonnet
White Bear, Poor Bear, Pricked Forehead,
Yellow Buffalo, Spotted Wolf, Ten Bears.
All of them being fully attired in their
WAR-PAINT, WAMPUM and FEATHERS, and presenting in New-York the most attractive feature of the
RED MAN IN HIS NATIVE GRANDEUR!
fresh from the hunting-grounds and
WIGWAMS OF HIS WILD ABODES.
They will positively remain for a few days only and will receive visitors during the day and evening.
In the AFTERNOON and EVENING
Will appear the talented popular Comedian, ..... [there follows other Barnum attractions, Commodore Nutt, the Living Hippopotamus, Albino, wax figures, musical seal etc.]
April 9, 1863: New York Times: [unid. prob. Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Amusements: [excerpt from ad for Barnum's American Museum]
These untutored savages, though the chiefs and rulers of their various tribes and nations, are pleased and gratified, like children, with trinkets, toys, &c., and have been so generally presented with them, wherever they have traveled, that they expect them as presents from their visitors; hence the Manager, desirous of encouraging the public to see and contribute to their gratification, has determined to admit any visitor free to the Musem who brings them presents to the value of one dollar.
Apr. 10, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Trouble with the Indians.
The Indians now exhibiting in this City are genuine aboriginals. Commissioner Dole, the United States Indian Commissioner, and Major Colby, U.S.A., certify to the fact, and our visual organs indorse their certificate. Yesterday Mr. Barnum presented them each with a shell, with which they were for the moment pleased, but in the twinkling of an eye, a few moments after, a genuine fight was, in the fullest sense of the term, in full swing. One's shell was larger and another's prettier than the rest, and they fought for it like red scallyways, [sic] as they are, in spite of their big names. They had no idea that they were to be exhibited when they accepted the invitation, and probably have none as yet, for they receive the thunderous applause which greets them as evidence of popular regard for their warlike merits, with which they condescend to be pleased. The first thing one of them did on his arrival at the Museum was to offer Mr. Barnum a pair of well-worn trousers for a variegated shell which struck his fancy.
They are troublesome customers, and are as far remote from the half-breed species, so familiar to us all, as the North Pole is from the South. To day, at 9 o'clock, they will visit the Public School in Twenty-seventh-street, between Second and Third avenues, where 1,500 children will sing and calisthenic before them. This is truly a "Bad Injun."
April 10, 1863: The [NY] World: [unid., prob. Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
The Indians at the Museum. It is so long since any genuine children of the forest have been exhibited in New York that the appearance of a number of chiefs and braves at Barnum's Museum has all the attraction of positive novelty. The Indian character is not worthy of special admiration, and the Indian physiognomy can scarcely, as a general thing, be considered beautiful. The noble savage of actual life is very different from the ideal creations of Cooper and Aimard; but everyone wants to and ought to see the difference for himself and no better opportunity has been offered in years then that now made available by Mr. Barnum. He had invited here and induced to hold daily [levees?]. Some twenty more or less distinguished representatives of various tribes, most of whom have formed part of the delegations sent from the West to confer with the President. Ever type of red man can be found among them. The sententious, the jolly, the mild, the brutal, the dirty and the gay. They all look upon their display at the museum as a high class of compliment tending them by the palefaces, and are on their best behavior accordingly. They will only remain here a few days, as they have made arrangements to speedily return home.
April 11, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
Visit of the Indians to Public School No. 14.
The Indian chiefs and squaws which are now exhibiting at the Museum, visited yesterday morning Public School No. 14, on Twenty-seventh-street, near Third-avenue. They were accompanied by Mr. Barnum, and by Mr. Smith, who acts as interpreter. They were conveyed to the school in an omnibus drawn by six horses, which was preceded by a vehicle containing a band of musicians. Their appearance on Broadway and other streets through which they passed excited great attention, and by the time the building was reached, a large concourse of people began to assemble in the vicinity. Mr. B.B. Attenbury, a Trustee of the school, was in waiting to conduct the party through the various departments. The primary room was first visited. The Indians appeared highly pleased at the calisthentic exercises performed by the children, and listened attentively to some delightful singing, although, of course, the words were unintelligible to them. "War Bonnet," upon being invited to speak, declined, for the reason that everything was new to him, and he could say nothing which would be satisfactory to those present. Before taking leave they stood up in line, while Mr. Smith designated each one by his and her name, and the tribe to which they belonged, and also intimated their dispositions, giving "Yellow Buffalo" the credit of being the best Indian in the delegation, and "Little Heart" the discredit of being the worst one. They were then shown to the female department of the grammar school, and lastly, to the boy's department. While in the latter room, they were addressed in a neat and exceedingly appropriate speech by Thomas Ecclesine, one of the pupils. Master Thomas had but one hour to compose the address and commit it to memory. A large number of spectators were present, and, in common with the pupils, were much interested at the sight of the wild men of the forest. The unique party remained about an hour, and were then conducted to the omnibus and driven down Broadway.
April 11, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
"[Advertisement]
Barnum's will be all alive to-day. Those Indian chiefs and warriors have stirred up our citizens, as they have not been before in years. Everybody is rushing to see them. This is their last day. Come now, or you're too late. They are longing for their green fields and wild forest homes, and must be seen now or not at all. To accommodate all who come, Barnum gives three splendid dramatic performances, at 1 1/2, 3 1/3 and 7 1/2 o'clock P.M. It will be worth a quarter to see the crowd. First performance least crowded."
April 12, 1863: Sunday [NY] Times: [Ute]
More Indians at Grover's Theater.--To-night, Ute Indians. The Delegates of the tribe in Colorado Territory, will visit Grover Theater by the invitation of the manager. This tribe is a savage one, probably the most barbarous in America. Their costume is very scant, and they are particularly fond of glaring paints. The play of the evening is Julius Caesar," and there is no doubt ut that the Roman pageants will delight these savages, who to-night visit a theater for the first time.
April 13, 1863: Evening Post [New York]: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Cheyenne, Kiowa]
City Intelligence.
Indians at the City hall.
The Indians from Barnum's Museum having expressed a desire to hold communication with the "governor of the city," this morning was appointed for the interview. Between eleven and twelve o'clock a band of music in a vehicle drawn by four horses, followed by the Indians in a Broadway stage, passed from the Museum to the City Hall, where a crowd collected as quickly as if they sprung from the ground at the word of Barnum. The way through the throng was, however, easily opened; the public evidently looked on the aborigines with some doubt, and feared to intrude too rashly, lest they should find themselves scalped. Thus little delay occurred before all were at ease in the Governor's room
The names of the tribes represented and of the persons of the delegation were the Cheyennes, represented by Lean Bear, Stand-in-the Water and Feather Bonnet; the Kiowa, by Little Heart, Lean Wolf and squaw, White Bull and squaw; the Araphoe, by Spotted Wolf; the Apache, by Poor Bear; the Cado, by Jacob. The last-named Indian was driven out of Texas by the rebels because he would not bear arms against the United States government. They were decorated with particular attention to their ideas of elegance, turkey feathers and yellow ochre being important auxillaries [sic]. Mr. Barnum, Major Colley, the Indian agent, and Colonel Smith, their valued interpreter, accompanied the distinguished guests.
After the latter had gazed with silent, if not appreciative interest, on the pictures which hung upon the walls, they were formally presented to his honor the Mayor. The[y] excused themselves from making speeches, on account of the grief which oppressed them at the loss of a favorite chief in Washington. They succeeded, however, in making their gratitude clear for the pleasant remarks of Mr. Opdyke, and stated that they should bear away in their hearts all the good wishes they had received, ready to breathe them out over their entire nation when they returned home. Lean Bear was the principal speaker of the deputation, sustaining his part with a grave dignity. The interview, short and satisfactory, was finished in half an hour, and the red men retired to their omnibus.
Apr. 13, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[Included in list of entertainments]
"...The Wild Indians still remain under the cheerful impression that they are the guests of the City, that Barnum is the Great Mogul, and the Museum his palace. They are the genuine animal, and no mistake. Paint, feathers and trinkets cover their exterior; but their interior is, metaphorically speaking, filled with dead men's bones. They are a hard set, and, if Barnum is permitted to remain unscalped, he will do well. The several millions of curiosities, drummer boys, Albinos and What-is-its remain as usual, and can all be seen for a modest quarter."
April 14, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[NOTE: This may not be the first or only time this specific ad was run.]
AMUSEMENTS
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM.
TWO OR THREE DAYS MORE
OF THOSE WILD
Indian chiefs and warriors,
who are staying here for
A VERY SHORT TIME,
on their way home from a visit
TO WASHINGTON TO SEE THE PRESIDENT
They are no common Indians, but
CHIEFS AND RULERS
Of their tribes and nations, and represent the
KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES, CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
Among them are the valorous and distinguished
Lone Wolf, Little Heart, War Bonnet,
White Bear, Poor Bear, Pricked Forehead,
Yellow Buffalo, Spotted Wolf, Ten Bears
All of them are fully attired in their
WAR-PAINT, WAMPUM and FEATHERS,
and present the attractive feature of the
RED MAN IN HIS NATIVE GRANDEUR!
fresh from the hunting grounds and
WIGWAMS OF HIS WILD ABODES.
They are already tiring of the restraints of civilized society, and panting for their
HOMES, HUNTING AND FISHING GROUNDS IN
THEIR OWN WESTERN WILDS.
During their short stay they will be
ON EXHIBITION DAY AND EVENING.
In addition to these extraordinary wonders,
PETITE MINNIE WARRERN..... [etc., "freaks" & animals]
Admission, 25 cents. Children under ten years, 15 cents.
April 14, 1863: The [NY] World: [Chey., also prob. Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa] RECHECK IF 2ND PARA. IS FROM THIS DATE
"The Indians at the City Hall. A number of the more distinguished of the Indian chiefs, from the far West, who have for some days been sojourning at Barnum's Museum, yesterday paid a visit to the Mayor at the City hall. At 12 o'clock they arrived from the navy yard which place they had been visiting, in an omnibus, preceded by a band of music in a vehicle drawn by four horses. Their excellencies were immediately conducted to the Governor's room, and after having scrutinized the pictures which hung on the walls, were formally presented to his honor the Mayor by Major Colley, the Indian agent. The Mayor said he was much gratified to meet them there and to welcome them to our city. He hoped that their treaty with our government would be a bond of peace between them and us for all time.
...Less Bear, of the Cheyenne tribe, responded on behalf of the distinguished guests, and said it gave them much pleasure to be enabled to have so much of a gratifying nature to communicate when they arrived in their own country. They would bear away in their hearts all the good wishes they have received, ready to blow it out over their entire nation when they returned home. The red men were accompanied by Mr. Barnum, Colonel Smith, their interpreter, and Major Colley. The interview lasted about half an hour, after which the Indians departed.
April 15, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
"[Advertisement.]
The Indians Are Going.--They have notified Barnum that this is the last day they can stay with him. The showman is in grief, but they are inexorable. Their faces are Westward, and hence they will go. So all who would see them must do it to-day. Who will fail? Another opportunity to see the representatives of the large Western tribes of Indians may never occur. See them, then, to-day. To please all, dramatic performances at 3 and 7 1/2 P.M. Other curiosities at all hours."
April 15, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[NOTE: Lines markes, "++" are doubled, tripled or quadrupled in text.]
AMUSEMENTS.
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM.
LAST DAY ++
of those
INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS, ++
These wild children of the forest have notified the Management that they
CANNOT REMAIN AFTER TO-DAY,
consequently this is the
LAST OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THEM, ++
Will the public miss it? Will parents fail to have their
children see
THESE RED MEN OF THE FOREST, ++
whose lives and peculiarities form so large a page in our country's history.
They will be ON EXHIBITION DAY and EVENING.
Let it be remembered that they are no common Indians,
but CHIEFS AND RULERS
of their tribes, and represent some of the most powerful
of the Indian nations, as the
KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES, CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
Their names, though not euphonious to refined ears, are significant, as:
Lone Wolf Little Heart, War Bonnet,
White Bear, Poor Bear, Pricked Forehead,
Yellow Buffalo, Spotted Wolf, Ten Bears
They appear in their native costumes, and present the
attractive features of the
RED MAN IN HIS NATIVE GRANDEUR!
fresh from the hunting-grounds and
WIGWAMS OF HIS WILD ABODES.
In addition to these extraordinary wonders...["freaks" & animals]
April 16, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[NOTE: Lines marked "++" are repeated multiple times.]
AMUSEMENTS
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM.
MAJ. SMITH, THE INTERPRETER
of those
INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS ++
has been unexpectedly detained
ONE DAY LONGER ++
than he designed, and consequently,
THE INDIANS ++
will remain at the Museum to-day, after which they are determined to
START FOR THEIR HOMES IN THE WEST,
having tired of the artificial restraints of
CIVILIZED AND REFINED SOCIETY.
They will be ON EXHIBITION during the DAY and
EVENING, and at
THE AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE
MAKE A
FAREWELL SPEECH
TO MR. BARNUM AND THE AUDIENCE.
They are undoubtedly the finest specimens of the
WILD MEN OF THE WILDERNESS
ever seen in this Metropolis since the settlement of the
country. They are
CHIEFS AND RULERS OF THEIR TRIBES.,
and represent some of the most powerful of the Indian
nations, as the
KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES,
CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
Their names, though not euphonious to refined ears, are
significant, as:
Lone Wolf, Little Heart, War Bonnet,
White Bear, Poor Bear, Pricked Forehead,
Yellow Buffalo, Spotted Wolf, Ten Bears
They appear in their native costumes, and present the
attractive feature of the
RED MAN IN HIS NATIVE GRANDEUR!
fresh from the hunting grounds and
WIGWAMS OF HIS WILD ABODES,
Who will fail to see them to-day! to embrace
THIS LAST OPPORTUNITY! ++
--Remember, it is to-day or never.
In addition to these extraordinary wonders,...["freaks" & animals]
April 16, 1863: New York Tribune: [unid., prob. Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche; Ute?]
Visit of Indians to City Hall. The Indian Chiefs now sojourning in the City being desirous of paying their respects to the "Governor of the City", visited the City hall on Monday noon, accompanied by Mr. Barnum, and were escorted to the Governor's Room. Mayor Opdyke soon after entered, and was introduced to the chiefs, all of whom shook hands with him. He briefly addressed them, and said that as they had made a treaty with the whites he hoped they would sooner have their throats cut then violate a single clause. Previous to their visit to the hall they went to the Navy Yard and were conducted by Capt. Meade through various departments. Mr. Barnum the same day received word that the twelve chiefs of the Indians, now in Washington, would visit the Museum in a few days, which fast being made known to those now here, they became greatly excited, and indulged in a war dance.
April 17, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
[NOTE: Lines marked, "++" are repeated several times.]
AMUSEMENTS.
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM.
THE INDIAN EMBARGO,
MAJ. SMITH, THE INTERPRETER
of those
INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS, ++
is still unexpectedly detained. His arrangements for re-
turning home with his charge are still incomplete, and he
has decided not to start for the West
UNTIL NEXT MONDAY.
Consequently
THE INDIANS ++
Will
REMAIN TWO DAYS MORE, ++
the balance of this week, but
POSITIVELY NO LONGER,
as they will certainly start for their homes in the Western
wilds on Monday.
TWO DAYS MORE, THEN, REMAIN
for the public to see these
WILD MEN OF THE WILDERNESS,
and who will fail of seeing them? What parent will fail
to have his children see these
NATIVE RED MEN OF THE FOREST,
whose history is so identified with that of their native country! Let it not be forgotten that these are
THE VERY BEST CLASS OF INDIAN
CHIEFS AND RULERS OF THEIR TRIBES,
and represent some of the most powerful of the Indian
nations, as the
KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES,
CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
Their names, though not euphonious to refined ears, are significant, as
Lone Wolf, Little Heart, War Bonnet
White Bear, Poor Bear, Pricked Forehead,
Yellow Buffalo, Spotted Wolf, Ten Bears
They appear in their native costumes, and present the
attractive feature of the
RED MAN IN HIS NATIVE GRANDEUR!
fresh from the hunting-grounds and
WIGWAMS OF HIS WILD ABODES.
Who will fail to see them? to embrace
THIS LAST OPPORTUNITY! ++
Remember, it is now or never.
On MONDAY NEXT, the 20th, will commence the exhibition of representatives of the tribe of
INDIANS CALLED UTES,
the implacable enemies of the above tribes, and said to be
THE FINEST SPECIMENS OF INDIANS
from the Rocky Mountains
EVER IN THE CITIES OF THE EAST.
In addition to these extraordinary wonders, [animals, freaks, etc.]
April 18, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa]
[NOTE: Lines marked, "++" are repeated several times.]
AMUSEMENTS
BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM,
SATURDAY, April 18, 1863,
3 SPLENDID DRAMATIC PERFORMANCES AT 1 1/2
O'CLOCK, P.M., 3 1/2 and 7 1/2 P.M.,
at each of which will be produced the interesting piece
called
THE MILLER'S MAID,
and the laughter-provoking Farce,
THE DUMB BELLE.
LAST DAY ++
LAST DAY, POSITIVELY,
of those
INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS, ++
who have been attracting so much attention, and have
been persuaded to remain longer than they intended
NOW THEY WILL REMAIN NO LONGER,
TO-DAY CLOSES THEIR EXHIBITION.
SEE THEM TO-DAY OR NEVER.
They start for home on Monday morning,
NEVER AGAIN TO SEE NEW-YORK.
Remember, they are chosen specimens of their tribes,
THE CHIEFS AND RULERS,
and worthy the attention of both the curious and scientific. They represen the most noted tribes of the Far West, the
KIOWAS, COMANCHES, APACHES, ARRAPAHOES, CADDOS AND CHEYENNES.
They will be seen at all hours, will appear on the stage in the Lecture-Room, at each Dramatic Performance, and deliver a
FAREWELL SPEECH TO THE AUDIENCE.
In addition to these extraordinary wonders, [animals, freaks, etc.]
April 20, 1863: New York Times: [Apache, Arap., Caddo, Chey., Comanche, Kiowa; Ute]
[Included in listing of entertainments]
"...Barnum's Museum.--Mr. Barnum has at length got rid of his troublesome Indians, and for a day or two falls back upon his legitimate $30,000 Nutt, little Minnie, the "What is It," and the several millions of curiosities. The famous band of Utes will be here in a few days, with scalps and locks of hair, and finger rings of bone, and all that sort of thing, following which is a dog show, and after that a baby show. For the two latter, all the breeders of dogs, and the mothers of exhibitable children are in an active state of preparation, and great times are anticipated by those who propose to struggle for either class of premiums."
April 24, 1863: Evening Star: [Ute]
The Utah Indians.
This forenoon the delegation of the Waba[....](mountain) tribe of Utah Indians that [have] been here for the last three weeks on business with the Indian Bureau, called on the [Commissioner?] and took formal leave of him, preparatory to their return to the far West.
June 9, 1863: Alexandria Gazette: [Cherokee]
John Ross, Chief of the Cherokee nation, arrived in Washington last week, accompanied, as part of the delegation, by the Rev. Evan Jones, Lieut. Col. Downing, of the 3d Cherokee regiment, and Capt. M. Daniel, of the 2d Cherokee regiment, the whole forming a delegation to the U.s. Government on the general interests of the Cherokee nation.