1866 Delegations
President in 1866: Andrew Johnson
Commissioners of Indian Affairs in 1866: Dennis N. Cooley (to ca. April 1866);
Lewis V. Bogy (ca. Nov. 1, 1866 onwards)
Jan. 2, 1866 Daily National Intelligencer: [gen. info. on peace medals]
The usual Presidential Indian peace medals are now being struck at the Philadelphia mint. For years it has been the custom for the Presidents, on entering the White House, to present friendly Indians with silver medals. The tokens are highly valued by amicable tribes. The greatest distinction a traveller can pay a Pawnee or a Yute [sic] chief is to notice the massive silver medallions dependant from the breasts of the braves. The medals for President Johnson are of full size. On the face is an excellent cast of the President, with the words, "Andrew Johnson, President of the United States." On the reverse is a pedestal bearing in a wreath of laurel leaves the word "peace." In front of the pedestal two figures--an Indian and America [sic]--are clasping hands. At the feet of the Indian lie the pipe of peace and the tomahawk, and in the background are a herd of buffaloes. In the background, near America, are represented a train of cars passing over a bridge, and a binnacle wheel and an anchor lie at her feet. The medals are beautifully designed. They are about two inches and a half in diameter.
Jan. 3, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Sauk & Fox, Iowa]
Arrival of an Indian Delegation from Nebraska.--Major J. A. Burbank, United States Indian Commissioner for the Great Nemaha Agency, Nebraska Territory, arrived in this city last night, with a delegation of five Indians of the Iowa tribe and three of the Sac and Fox tribe. The Iowas are Mah-hee, or The Knife, (civilized;) Nag-ga-rash, or British, and To hie or The Rose, (half civilized;) Tar-ra-hee, or Deershand, (who represents the wild portion of the tribe.) Elisha Dorion is the interpreter. The Sacs and Foxes are Pe te ok e man, or Hardfish, (wild;) Moless, of The Whale. George Gomez is the interpreter.
Many of the delegation are dressed in wild aboriginal costume. Some years ago Moless was sent to Kentucky, and received a very liberal English education, which, however, he failed to improve upon his return to his native wilds, and consequently he derived but little benefit from it. George Gomez, the interpreter of the Sacs and Foxes, is a fearfully ugly old fellow, who, report among his people says, has had seventy-five or eighty wives.
The tribes represented by this delegation occupy fifty sections of land, are surrounded by whites, and are quiet and peaceable. The Iowas are the most thrifty; cultivate their lands, and carry on extensive dealings in wood. One of the delegation, Mah-hee, or The Knife, has an extensive woodyard on the Missouri river, and Major Burbank thinks that, next to the Cherokees, they are the most civilized of the Indian tribes. They are also truly loyal to the Government of the United States, and during the late war the Iowas sent over one half of their braves into the Union army. They served principally in the 13th and 11th Kansas regiments, but many were scattered among Missouri and other border regiments.
The main object of the present visit is to have a "talk" with regard to a treaty made in 1861, and to have it renewed. When they sold their lands to the Government, they understood the agreement to be that they were to receive the purchase money in hand. The United States holds the principal, however, and the Indians are regularly paid the interest. It is with regard to this subject that they are now here.
But of course enjoyment is partly the object of their visit, for an Indian considers it one of the greatest events of his life to visit Washington and see his "great Father," and nothing gives him more pleasure, or makes him think himself, or be esteemed by others of his tribe, a great man, than when he can rehearse to a listening audience what he has seen and heard on his travels.
The delegation will visit the President and the Secretary of the Interior shortly. While here they are quartered at the National Hotel.
Jan. 4, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Sauk & Fox, Iowa]
The delegations from the Sac and Fox and Iowa tribes of Indians, now in this city, had an interview with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs yesterday.
Jan. 4, 1866: Evening Star: [unid.]
The Indians to visit Grover's.--The public should not fail to visit Newcomb and Arlington's Minstrel Troupe, now performing at Grover's Theater. All who do will be well pleased with their inimitable delineation of the negro's eccentricities. To-night, the Indian delegation now in the city will occupy prominent positions in the dress circle. The delegation consists of the chiefs of several tribes, accompanied by their favorite "braves," and will be attired in all the grandeur of the native costume.
Jan. 4, 1866: Evening Union: [unid.]
Grover's New Theatre. The talented troupe of minstrels now at this theatre are dong a very successful business. They appear in an entirely new programme every night, embrading comic and sentimental songs, dancing, burlesque, &c. On Monday evening the popular Maddie Mitchell will appear in her great character of "Fanchon." The Indian delegation at preent in this city, will eappear this evening in their native costumes.
Jan. 6, 1866: Evening Star: [Sauk & Fox; unid.]
White House.
The Indian delegation of the Sac, Fox and other Indian tribes, which has been in the city for some time, was presented to the president to-day by the commissioner of Indian Affairs, Judge Cooley. This delegation is here on business connected with the Indian reservations. The Indians were evidently much pleased at their reception by their "Great Father."
Jan. 8, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Cherokee]
A delegation from the Cherokee tribe of Indians, numbering eight, arrived here on Saturday for the purpose of arranging the treaties which they declined to consummate during the recent visit of Commissioner Cooley and party to their vicinity.
Jan. 8, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Shawnee; Iowa & Sauk and Fox]
Indian Treaty.--A treaty has been concluded between the Shawnees, Black bobs' [sic] band, about six hundred in number, and the Government, by which the Secretary of the Interior is authorized to sell the lands held by these Indians in Kansas, the proceeds to be applied to the purchase of new homes for them in the Indian Territory. These Indians, in company with a delegation of Iowas and Fox tribe of Missouri, visited the President on Saturday.
Jan. 8, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Sauk & Fox]
The Indian delegations now here, after visiting the Secretary of the Interior yesterday morning, called and paid their respects to the president, being introduced by Judge Cooley, Indian commissioner. They manifested much interest, and were greatly pleased with the interview with the "Great Father." They were extravagantly gewgawed for the occasion. The calls of the white brethren upon the President were quite numerous, the last day of the week being generally selected by those who have private interests to serve to seek an audience.
Jan. 11, 1866: Evening Star: [Iowa; Sauk & Fox]
The Indian Delegation.
The delegation from the Sacs and Fox and Iowa Indians of Nebraska, had another audience with Commissioner Cooley yesterday. The Commissioner is endeavoring to ascertain the causes of the grievances of which they complain, with a view to applying a remedy; but these are difficult to estimate. The most frequently occurring complaint they have to make is, to use their own words, "Money, want more, right quick!"
Jan. 12, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw]
Delegation of Indians from the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Chickasaw nations, numbering in all about twenty-five, arrived in the city Wednesday evening for the purpose of holding a pow-wow with their Great Father.
Jan. 13, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chickasaw, Creek, Seminole]
Another Indian delegation from the Creek and Seminole tribes, in and about Fort Gibson, arrived here last night for the purpose of having a talk with their "Great Father" relative to the interests of their tribes. They are here in charge of Messrs. J. Harlan, G. A. Reynolds, and C. P. Garrett. The names of the Indians are Sands, chief of the Creek nation; Cowetta Mecca and Kat-cho-che, headmen, and Harry Island, interpreter. John Chopeo, chief of the Seminoles; [Folsi?] Hayo, assistant chief; Chocot Hayo, third chief, and Robert Johnson, interpreter. One of the interpreters has more of the negro blood in him than the Indian. Robert H. Love, a representative of the Chickasaw nation, also arrived yesterday, and is quite a curiosity, weighing, as he does, about three hundred and fifty pounds. All are stopping at the Washington House.
Jan. 13, 1866: Evening Union: [Chickasaw, Creek, Seminole]
[copy of Jan. 13, 1866 DNI article]
Jan. 19, 1866: Evening Star: [Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
The Indian Delegations.
The following delegations of Indians are now in the city for the purpose of transacting business with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs:
Creek Delegation.--Major James G. Dunn agent, Ok-ta-ha-sarse-ha-ju, Koui-e-ta-me-ka, and Kat-cho-che. Harry Island interpreter.
Seminole Delegation.--Major George A. Reynolds agent. John Chop-ko, Fola-ha-jo, Cho-cote-ha-go, John F. Brown, Robert Johnson, interpreter. The interpreters of both the Creeks and Seminoles are colored men.
Choctaw Delegation.--Allen Wright, Alfred Wade, James Riley, John Page, R. H. Jones, and Campbell Lefiore, Secretary. The head chief, Governor P. P. Pitchlynn, accompanies the delegation.
Chickasaw Delegation.--Holmes Colbert, Colbert Carter, Edmund Pickens, Robert H. Love. The head chief, Governor Winchester Colbert, is with the delegation.
Jan. 19, 1866: Evening Star: [Cherokee, Seminole]
[Letter published in newspaper]
Seminole Agency.
Major Geo. A. Reynolds, agent of the Seminoles, has received from the Cherokee Nation the following letter, signed by the chiefs and headmen of that tribe, who did not accompany the delegation to Washington:
Temporary Seminole Agency, Cherokee Nation, Jan. 6, 1866--Maj. Geo. A. Reynolds and Seminole Delegation, Washington, D.C.:
We, the undersigned chiefs and headmen, feel it our duty to acknowledge the receipt of our goods, and to express to you our thanks. The goods are first-rate, and more of them than we ever received before, and were distributed to the satisfaction of our people. In conclusion: we hope you will have a successful mission to Washington, and that our worthy superintendent and yourselves accept our thanks for your attention in watching over the interests of your Indians. Assure the Commissioner of Indian Affairs that we are, as ever, true to our Government, and wish it well.
Fos-not-che, his X mark,
Pas-co-fa, his X mark,
Chit-to-har-go, his X mark.
Jan. 19, 1866: Evening Star: [Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
The Indian Delegations.
The following are the names of the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Seminole, and Creek Indians that arrived in this city a few days ago. The interpreters of the Creeks and Seminoles are both colored men. The Chickasaw and Choctaw delegations are accompanied by the Head Chiefs, Gov. P. P. Pitchlynn and Gov. Winchester Colbert.
Choctaws.--Allen Wright, Alfred Wade, James Riley, John Page, R. M. Jones. Campbell Leflore, Secretary.
Chickasaws.--Holmes Colbert, Colbert Carter, Edmund Pickens, Robert H. Love.
Creeks.--Ok-ta-ha-sarse-ha-ju, Kou-e-ta-ne-ka, Kat-cho-che. Harry Island, Interpreter. Maj. Jas. G. Dunn, Agent.
Seminoles.--John Chop-ko, Pols-ha-jo, Cho-cote-ha-go, John T. Brown. Robert Johnson, Interpreter. Maj. Geo. A. Reynolds, Agent.
Jan. 20, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Cherokee, Seminole]
[Same letter as published in Evening Star Jan. 19]
Jan. 20, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole
[Same story as Evening Star, Jan. 19]
Jan. 22, 1866: Evening Star: [Miami]
Office of Indian Affairs.
A delegation of the Miami tribe of Indians of Indiana, headed by the old chief Mashingmashaw had an interview with Commissioner Cooley this morning, in reference to the title of the aged chief to the Miama [sic] "ten section reservation," granted by the stipulations of treaties made in 1838 and 1840. Mashingmashaw is now over eighty years of age, but retains his mental and bodily vigor to a wonderful degree. He is accompanied by his son, grandson, and grandnephew.
Jan. 23, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Miami]
Interview of an Indian Delegation with Commissioner Cooley.--The delegation from the Miami tribe of Indians, now in the city, had an interview with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs yesterday morning, relative to the Miami "ten section reservation."
Jan. 27, 1866: Harper's Weekly: [Iowa, Sauk & Fox]
The Indian Delegation from Nebraska.
We give on our first page portraits of four of the Indian delegates [based on a photograph by Alexander Gardner] from Nebraska. The delegation, consisting altogether of eight Indians, arrived in Washington on the evening of January 2, in company with Major J. A. Burbane, United Staes Indian commissioner for the Great Nebraska Agency. There were five Indians of the Iowa tribe and three of the sac and Fox tribe. Three of our portraits are of Iowas, namely: Lag-er-lash, or British, Too-hi, or Brier Rose, and Tar-a-kee, or Deerham, the two first being half-civilized, while Deerham represents the wild portion of the tribe. Pe-ti-o-ki-ma, or Hard-Fish, is a wild representative of the Sacs and Foxes.
Many of the delegation are dressed in wild aboriginal costume. Some years ago one of them, Moless, was sent to Kentucky, and received a very liberal English education, which, however, he failed to improve upon his return to his native wilds, and consequently he derived but little benefit from it. George Gomez, the interpreter of the Sacs and Foxes, is a fearfully ugly old fellow, who, report among his people says, has had seventy-five or eighty wives.
The tribes represented by this delegation occupy fifty sections of land, are surrounded by whites, and are quiet and peaceable. The Iowas are the most thrifty; cultivate their lands, and carry on extensive dealings in wood. One of the delegation, Mah-hoe, or The Knife, has an extensive woodyard on the Missouri River, and Major Burbank thinks that, next to the Cherokees, they are the most civilized of the Indian tribes. They are also truly loyal to the Government of the United States, and during the late war the Iowas sent over one-half of their braves into the Union army. They served principally in the Thirteenth and Fourteenth Kansas regiments, but many were scattered among Missouri and other border regiments.
The main object of the present visit is to have a "talk" with regard to a treaty made in 1861, and to have it renewed. When they sold their lands to the Government, they understood the agreement to be that they were to receive the purchase-money in hand. The United States holds the principal, however, and the Indians are regularly paid the interest.
But of course enjoyment is partly the object of their visit, for an Indian considers it one of the greatest events of his life to visit Washington and see his "Great Father," and nothing gives him more pleasure, or makes him think himself, or be esteemed by others of his tribe, a great man, than when he can rehearse to a listening audience what he has seen and heard on his travels. They will also carry back with them new silver peace medals, a number of which are now being struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The medals for President Johnson are full size. On the face is an excellent case of the President, with the words, "Andrew Johnson, President of the United States." On the reverse is a pedestal bearing in a wreath of laurel leaves the word, "Peace." In front of the pedestal two figures--an Indian and America--are clasping hands. At the feet of the Indian lie the pipe of peace and the tomahawk, and in the back-ground are a herd of buffaloes. In the back-ground, near America, are represented a train of car passing over a bridge, and a binnacle wheel and an anchor lie at her feet. The medals are beautifully designed, and are about two inches and a half in diameter.
Jan. 30, 1866: Evening Star: [Creek, Seminole]
Indian Delegations.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs to-day had a conference with the Creek and Seminole delegations, preparatory to entering into new treaty stipulations with those tribes.
Jan. 31, 1866: Evening Star: [Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Sauk & Fox, Seminoles]
White House.
....About half-past two o'clock Commissioner Cooley, of the Indian Bureau, called upon the President at the head of the Indian delegations now in the city, representing the choctaws, Seminoles, Creeks, Chickasaws and Sac and Foxes.
Jan. 31, 1866: Evening Union: [Creek, Dakota, Fox (& Sauk?), Seminole]
The Indian Visitors.--The Creek and Seminole Indian delegation are still here, along with their African interpreters. They are dressed in citizens clothes, and wear shorthair. The Fox and Sioux have gone home.
Jan. 31, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Creek, Seminole]
The Creek and Seminole Indian delegations now here, called upon the commissioner of Indian affairs this morning, and held a long talk relative to a new treaty stipulation which they are about to enter into with the government.
Feb. 1, 1866: Alexandria Gazette: [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
The Indian delegation, composed of the delegates from the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations, Northern Creeks and Southern Seminoles, Southern and Northern Cherokees, paid President John Johnson a visit yesterday, with which the Southwestern Indians were much pleased.
Feb. 1, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
Interview of Indians with the President.
Delegations from the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, Cherokee, and Seminole Indians were introduced by Hon. D. N. Cooley, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and Hon. J. A. Sells, United States Agent for the Southwestern Indians.
On the part of the Choctaws, Mr. Jones addressed the President. he declared the friendship to the Government of the tribes of whom he was the spokesman. Side by side with United States soldiers at Pensacola and New Orleans they had fought against the common enemy. While they execrated the crime which deprived the States of their Chief Magistrate, they congratulated themselves that his successor was the great and noble statesman they had now the honor of beholding.
Mr. Boudinot, of the Cherokees, states that there were two delegations from that tribe, called loyal and disloyal. It was the result of an old feud existing since 1835. They were all loyal now, however, since the surrender last spring at Fort Smith, in Arkansas.
Hon. D. N. Cooley here said that in consequence of not being informed of this reception the other delegation from the Cherokees was absent, two only being present, one of whom Captain Christie, wished to address the President.
After an eloquent speech from Captain Christie, Chief Sam of the Creeks, addressed the President in a few words, through the medium of an intelligent colored interpreter. He was followed by a Seminole chief.
The President then, in a low, clear voice, responded. He thanked them for their compliment in thus calling. He said the Government always redeemed its pledges, and when they came forward confessing their error in this manly manner, he extended to them the right hand of fellowship. He was glad of this demonstration. Their geographical position ought to persuade them that peace is their proper policy. The Government was powerful to protect and to punish. It is just. He was grateful to meet them and receive their assurances of friendship. Their business relations with the Government would be properly attended to.
He concluded in his usual happy vein, and the delegations, after being personally introduced to the President, departed, thoroughly pleased with the result of their visit, and the kindly bearing of their "Great Father."
Feb. 1, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
[Under date Jan. 31] The several delegations of Indians now here, dressed in citizens clothing and accompanied by the Indian commissioner visited the President to-day and had a satisfactory "talk." He President spoke very kindly to them, and offered them the protection and fostering care of the government, reminding them that the government was at the same time powerful and just.
Feb. 2, 1866: Evening Star: [Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole]
New Indian Treaties.
Councils are being held daily between the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and the delegations from the Creek and Seminole tribes, for the conclusion of new treaties; and as soon as these questions are settled, councils will be held with the Choctaw and Chickasaw delegations.
Feb. 16, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Cherokee]
[Under heading, Washington, Feb. 15]
There was a large crowd to-day at the White House. John Ross, of the Cherokee Indian nation, had a long interview with the President, and H. R[ives?] Pollard, of the Richmond Examiner, lately suppressed by military order, was in waiting to obtain an audience.
Feb. 16, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Deleg. of photographers/tax stamps]
[Continued from above under heading, Washington, Feb. 15]
There is a large delegation of photographic artists here representing nearly all parts of the country, seeking a change of the law requiring stamps upon photographs, and asking instead to be allowed to make monthly payments of taxes on sales. Messrs. Bendan Bros. and P. L. Perkins, of Baltimore, are among the delegates.
Feb. 19, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Shawnee]
A delegation of six Shawnee Indians, in charge of Mr. C. G. Keeler, Indian agent, have arrived here from the West by way of Wheeling, Va. The Baltimore and Ohio road on business for their tribe with the government. The members of the delegation are all large, fine looking, well dressed men, and with one exception talk English fluently.
Feb. 22, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa]
Chippewa Indian Delegation.
A large delegation of the chiefs and head men of the Bois Fork bands of Chippeway Indians, from the neighborhood of Lake Superior and Vermillion Lake, arrived in the city yesterday, and called on Commissioner Cooley, Major L. E. Webb, Indian Agent, and Joseph D. Gurnol, interpreter, accompanied the delegation. The object of their visit, it is said, is to renew their treaties with the United States.
Feb. 22, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Chippewa]
Indian Treaty.
Agent L. E. Wells, accompanied by ten of the leading chiefs and head men of the Brisfort band of the Chippewas, of Lake superior, was at the Indian Bureau to day, and had a short interview with Commissioner Cockey [sic]. It is probable that a treaty will be entered into with then in the course of a few days.
March 3, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa, & unid. mixed , & Iroquois]
Indian Conference.
A delegation of the chiefs and head men of the Lac du Flambeau band of the Chippewa Indians of Lake Superior, now located in Minnesota, arrived yesterday and have had a conference with Commissioner Cooley. During the interview Col. Ely S. Parker, of Lieut. General Grant's staff, who has been assigned to the duty of assisting to complete the treaties now being made by the Government with several of the Indian tribes, addressed the delegation as follows:
"My brothers, I am very thankful to the Great Spirit that I enjoy the privilege of meeting the delegates of the Chippeway Nation, and I extend to you the hand of friendship. Years ago my people in New York were very strong; but they became so reduced in numbers that they buried the hatchet forever between them and all their red brethren. I have been detailed by the President of the United States to assist in making treaties with the Indians, and I believe it is done because the President is satisfied, so far at least as I am concerned, that no injustice shall be done. I am satisfied that the President of the Untied States and the people of the United States are all anxious to do justice to the Indians, and protect them from fraud and injustice. My advice to you is to go hence and carefully consider all that has been said to you, and to act in unity, allowing no difficulty or divisions to arise among you or affect your actions. What has ruined the interests of the Indians are these divisions which exist among themselves. I think you should bear in mind the remarks of the Commissioner, and if you are in doubt about any of your matters, not go to lawyers or claim agents, and interested and officious parties outside, but come directly to this office and get advised. Again I greet [sic] you."
March 19, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chippewa]
Gone to the Happy Hunting Grounds--Death of an Indian Chief.
Ah-Moose, or Wasp, or Little Bee, head chief of the Lac de Flambare (sic) tribe of Chippewa Indians, whose hunting grounds are on the Wisconsin river died on Saturday, at the rooms temporarily occupied by the delegation now here, on B street, near Third and yesterday his remains received Christian burial at the Congressional Cemetery: Rev. Dr. Keeling, of Trinity Church officiating. The deceased and three others of the tribe who came here some time ago for the purpose of having a "talk" with their "Great Father," were taken sick last week with what was pronounced black measles, a disease peculiar to the Indians. Dr. Dove was called in to attend them and subsequently Dr. Keasbey's services were required as consulting physician. Under their treatment the patients were getting along as well as could be expected, but they insisted upon taking medicine of their own which they had brought with them. Early on Saturday morning, during the temporary absence of the agent, Mr. Bradford, Ah-Moose induced two of his companions to take him to a pump and he had water pumped over him. This no doubt accelerated the death of the chief as he expired a short time after the operation. The remains were encased in one of Dr. Scollay's deodorizing burial cases, the dead chieftain according to the custom of the tribe, being buried with all the clothing in which he died. It is also a custom of this tribe, when the master dies to kill his dog and bury it with him and in this instance the survivors endeavored to obtain a dog to bury with the chief but failed to do so.
The deceased was much loved and highly respected, not only by the tribe over which he ruled, but also by the whites who were acquainted with him. He was descended from a long line of chiefs and royal Indian blood coursed through his veins. When a chief of this tribe dies he has the power of naming his successor and Ah-Moose designated for this position his youngest son, Sou-os-ko-gee-zick, or Blue Cloud. Indeed, before the old chief left his home to come to Washington he had a premonition of death, having dreamed that he was about to take a long journey from which he would never return. He therefore induced the agent to allow his son, Sou-os-ko-gee-zick to accompany him, saying that he intended to make him chief, and that he wished him to see his "Great Father," and note how business was done.
The other Indians who were attacked with the disease are still very sick, but hopes are entertained of their ultimate recovery. It is proper here to state, in order that fears may be stayed that the disease is not a very dangerous one when properly cared for nor is it one from which whites are liable to attack except upon direct and careless contact with it.
March 19, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa]
Death Of An Indian Chief.--On Saturday, Ah-Moose, or Little Bee, head chief of a tribe of Chippewa Indians, who, with three others of his tribe, have been in the city for some time, having come to have a talk with their "Great Father," died at the quarters of the delegation, on B street, near 3d, on Saturday. The deceased and his companions were taken sick last week with the "black measles," a disease peculiarly severe among the Indians. He was attended by Dr. Dove, who called in Dr. Keasby, as consulting physician. The deceased before he died designated his youngest son, Saw-as-ko-zick, as his successor. His remains were yesterday interred in the Congressional Cemetery: Rev. Dr. Keeling, of Trinity Church, officiating. The other Indians are still very sick, but hopes are entertained of their recovery. The disease, it is said, is not a dangerous one when properly treated, and not likely to attack whites.
March 20, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chippewa]
More Mortality Among the Indians.
St. Germain, another of the Chippewa Indians, a delegation of whom is now in this city, died yesterday of the same disease that carried off his chief, Ah-moose. He was also placed in one of Scollay's deodorizing cases and buried in the Congressional Cemetery. Others of the Indians are yet very ill and but slight hopes of their recovery are entertained. This is owing greatly to the conduct of the Indians themselves, who refuse to obey the orders of their physicians, and insist upon using medicines of their own, and they also aggravate the disease under which they suffer by indulging in liquor, which they induce their companions to obtain for them.
March 20, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa]
Another Indian Dead.--Yesterday afternoon, another of the Indians, the illness and death of the principal chief we noticed yesterday, a chief named St. Germain, died at the quarters of the delegation of the same disease--the black measles--as his chief.
March 20, 1866: Richmond Whig: [Chippewa]
[reprint of March 19, DNI story]
March 23, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa]
Another Indian Dead.--Skau-ba-wis, another of the Chippewa Indians, died yesterday at the quarters of the delegation, on B street, near 3d. of the black measles, from which the chief and another of the tribe had previously died. Dr. Dove is attending two others who have the disease, and pronounces them out of danger.
March 23, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chippewa]
Death of Another Indian.
Skau-ba-wis, another of the Lac de Flambare tribe of Chippewa Indians, died yesterday at the quarters of the tribe, on B street, near Third, and was buried yesterday afternoon from Dr. Scollay's, having first been encased in a deodorizing burial case. This is the third of the tribe who has died, but we understand that the others who were sick are convalescing.
April 7, 1866: Evening Star: [Chippewa]
Chippeway Conference.
In accordance with an invitation from Commissioner J. N. Cooley, the chiefs and headmen of the Chippeway band of Indians, from Lake Superior, assembled in the council room of the Indian Bureau to-day, to confer with the Commissioner and agents on the part of the United States in reference to the treaty which the Government is endeavoring to make with them.
Quite a number of persons were present in the council-room, many of whom were ladies, as the consultation was expected to be of an interesting character. After the articles of the treaty, which had been framed, were read and interpreted to the Indians, they requested all the white people to leave the room, that they might have the council chamber for consultation among themselves, which request was granted.
April 9, 1866: Evening Star: [Sauk & Fox]
White House.
The number of people at the White House to-day to call on the President was quite large. Secretary Seward was closeted with the Executive about an hour this morning, and Attorney General Speed and Lieut. Gen. Grant had an interview with him afterwards. A delegation of gentlemen from Maryland called for a few minutes to pay their respects to the President. Ke-o-kuk, principal chief of the Sac and Fox tribes of Indians, accompanied by his interpreter, had a protracted conversation with the President this afternoon. The great chief rejoiced in all the glittering ornaments of the red man, including the paint, and was wrapped in a glaring red blanket. He emerged from the audience chamber looking greatly delighted at the result of the "big talk" with the "Great Father."
April 23, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [unid.]
Although a large number of persons called at the White House yesterday, a very small proportion of them succeeded in obtaining an interview with the President, among them Adjutant general Thomas. The President has promised an audience tomorrow to the Indian delegation now in this city.
May 14, 1866: Evening Star: [Chickasaw, Choctaw]
Pardoned.
The pardon of Brig. Gen. D. H. Cooper, of Arkansas, who served in the rebel army, was signed by the President this morning. General cooper was recommended for pardon by the following:--Major General Hunt, Major General blunt, U.S.A., Governors Murphy, of Arkansas, Throckmorton, of Texas, Sharkey, of Mississippi, Senator Lane, of Kansas, Hon. D. N. Cooley, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and the Choctaw and Chickasaw delegations.
July 3, 1866: New York Times: [Dakota, Cheyenne]
Indian Affairs
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs received a telegram, this morning, from E. G. Taylor, President of the Laramie Commission, dated Fort Laramie, June 29, announcing that a satisfactory treaty had been concluded with the Sioux and Cheyennes. The two tribes were largely represented, and the most cordial feeling prevailed."
Aug. 1, 1866: Daily National Intelligencer: [Chickasaw, Choctaw]
Interesting Incident.
Delegations from the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations of Indians, composed of gentlemen of education and intelligence, have for some months past been in this city attending to important business for their people, which involved an earnest and protracted controversy with the officers of the Government in charge of Indian affairs, accompanied, however, with mutual respect and good feeling.
Though disappointed in some important particulars, the members of the two delegations seem to have been deeply impressed with the kind and considerate manner in which they were listened to and treated, particularly by Judge Cooley, the commissioner of Indian Affairs. Having nearly finished their business, and being about to depart for their distant homes, west of Arkansas, they waited on that gentleman a few evenings since, at his private residence, and presented him with a beautiful gold headed cane, with a suitable inscription, which they had specially procured for the purpose, as a testimonial of their respect and friendship for him personally, and as an evidence of their appreciation of his courtesy and kindness to them.
A friend has procured for us a copy of the addresses on the occasion that from the Indians having been made by Col. Peter P. Pitchlynn, principal chief and governor of the Choctaw nation, who is well and favorably known to many of our citizens. What aided in giving interest to the occasion was the presence of the governor of both nations; Winchester Colbert, governor of the Chickasaw nation, and a gentleman of intelligence and deserved influence with his people, heading their delegation.
Address of Col. Pitchlynn.
Judge Colley: The Choctaw and Chickasaw delegations, having substantially completed their business with the Government, cannot think of leaving for their distant homes without some expression of the obligations they feel towards you for the courtesy and personal kindness you have shown them during all the long and protracted negotiations which have terminated in the consummation of the important treaty with us that has recently been ratified, a treaty of more importance, probably, in its ends and aims, than any before made with an Indian tribe. In our intercourse with you we have been deeply impressed with the feelings of humanity and knidness towards our race with which you appear to be animated, and we sincerely hope that you will be greatly successful, during your administration of Indian affairs, in carrying out your views and policy for the amelioration of the condition of the Indian tribes. They greatly need a true friend in your position, and we believe you to be such.
As an evidence of our personal respect and regard, and as a slight testimonial of our obligations to you for your personal kindness, we beg your acceptance of this cane, with the inscription: "From the Choctaw and Chickasaw Delegates, to their friend, D. N. Cooley. July, 186."
Reply of Judge Cooley.
Gentlemen: I can scarcely say which is greater, my surprise or pleasure for this call. That you feel kindly towards me for my efforts to restore the friendly relations which for so long existed between the United States and the Choctaws and Chickasaws, but which unhappily were for a time suspended, is indeed to me a very pleasant thought. If I have merited your kind expressions by my treatment of you and the other nations that have been represented here the past winter and spring, my ambition when I entered upon the important trust committed to me by the President about a year since is satisfied.
Gentlemen, the position which I occupy by the kindness of the President, who is your true friend and protector, is no [illeg.]. it is one of great importance to you and the three hundred and fifth thousand of your brethren now in relations of amity with the United States, and, to some extant, under my supervision. From my boyhood I have heard of the encroachments of the white race upon your domain, of the abuses of those in and out of the service which you have been compelled to suffer, and I have all my life had desire to be placed where I could in some way or manner aid in doing justice to you and your race. I now, for a time, have that opportunity, and hope my labors will result as satisfactorily to all and to the Government as you are pleased to say they have been to you.
I must congratulate you on the successful termination of our labors in making the treaty just ratified by the Senate. For many of its wise provisions and for its liberal spirit you are indebted to the Hon. Secretary of the Interior, who, for many ears in the Senate of the United states, has been your warm friend and defender against the schemes of those who would despoil you or your country and your national rights. Your friend, Mr. Latrobe, by his conciliatory and statesmanlike views, rising above the attorney and seeking, as he did, your true good, added much to consummate what, in the language of a United States Senator, is "the best Indian treaty ever submitted to the Senate for its ratification."
You have laid the foundations for a State, broad and sure, if only its liberal provisions for school, survey and allotments of lands, and internal improvements are carried out, as I believe you will carry them out, in the spirit of the treaty
You have a beautiful country; it is the heart of the continent, with a climate unsurpassed; with abundance of water, timber, prairie, oils and salts. Your future, gentlemen, under the treaty, is in your own control. Your civilization is such that there is now no obstacle to your advancement to the enjoyment of every material blessing. That you may succeed--that your nation may be the bright evangel {sic] to lead the other Indian nations and tribes to civilization and the cultivation of the arts of peace--is my sincere wish.
Gentlemen, I accept this beautiful testimonial with reluctance and yet with pleasure--with reluctance, because it would seem more fitting that I should be the donor and you the recipients, for you are in no manner indebted to me or my race in material things; and, with pleasure, because it will in future remind me of my pleasant acquaintance with you, now so extended and commenced in your own country, and of my connection with the numerous councils which we have had, resulting in a treaty which is to make you the nucleus of an Indian State--Oklahoma, "the home of the red people"--and thus bring you into more intimate relationship with the United States.
I accept it, and thank you again for the kind feeling towards me which prompted it. I wish you each a pleasant journey home, and peace, prosperity, and happiness to yourselves and families.
Aug. 3, 1866: Evening Star: [Pawnee]
The Indian Delegation.
A delegation of seven or eight chiefs and leading men of the Pawnee tribe of Indians arrived in the city a few days ago, for the purpose of having a "big talk" with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs; but as they report themselves authorized to treat on business matters by the tribe only, and have no letters from the agent in their country, the Indian Office can not recognize their mission. They have been visiting the different cities throughout the North, and having a good time generally.
Aug. 17, 1866: Evening Star: [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Pawnee]
Our Royal Visitor.
Visit to Mount Vernon and Reception of Indian Delegations.
Yesterday morning at 11 o'clock, Queen Emma, accompanied by Mr. Odell, Hawaiian charge d'affaires, R. S. Chilton, Esq., and Miss Spurgin, went on board of the Untied States revenue steamer Northerner for a trip to Mount Vernon, as we stated in our second edition. At the Navy yard Her Majesty was received by Acting Read Admiral Radford, commandant, and Capt. Balch, who escorted her during her inspection of the Navy Yard; and a salute of twenty one guns was fired in her honor. Several hours were very pleasantly spent by the royal party in visits to the many points of interest surrounding Mount Vernon, and about 5 p.m. returned to the city.
At a little after 8 o'clock her Majesty was waited upon by the several Indian delegations which are now n the city on business with the Indian Office. They were accompanied by Charles E. Mix, Esq., Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs, who presented them to the Queen.
The delegations were received by her Majesty in one of the large parlors of the hotel, and as the Indians were introduced to her she shook each by the hand, until all had been presented. The Queen appeared to be much pleased with the visit, and desired to hear the Indian language, whereupon Governor Pytchlin [sic] addressed her in the Choctaw language, which was interpreted by Mr. Wright. She carefully examined the bows, arrows, tomahawks, and ornaments of the Pawnees, and seemed especially diverted by the odd appearance of the little papoose, which was carried on the back of a squaw. She conversed with Big Bear, the chief, through the interpreter, and seemed anxious to know how they were governed. Governor Pytchlin [sic] explained to her that the civilized Indians governed themselves, but the wild Indians belonged to Mr. Mix. After some further conversation the interview terminated. The royal party expect to leave to-morrow for Niagara Falls.
Aug. 18, 1866: Sun [Baltimore]: [Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Pawnee]
Queen Emma dined with Mr. Seward this evening, and will remain in his mansion as the guest of the Secretary of State. It is understood that Mr. Seward was induced to offer the Queen apartments in his mansion as a protection to her from the importunities and impertinent intrusions of gossips and toadies who besieged the apartments of the Queen at Willard's to the general annoyance and discomfort of her Majesty, and to the mortification of our own people of sense and propriety. Yesterday, after her return from Mt. Vernon, the Queen gave audience to several delegations of Indians. The tribes represented were: Choctaws, under charge of Gov. Peter P. Patchlynn [sic]; Chickasaws, in charge of Gov. Winchester Colbert; Southern Cherokees and Pawnees, among the latter two squaws and one papoose. The latter tribe are pure savages, and almost wholly absorbed the attention of her Majesty, who examined curiously their dress, shield, bow and arrows, trinkets, &c. The Queen also manifested the liveliest interest in the papoose. It appears her Majesty intended a trip to the Indian territories of North America for the purpose of observing savage life, and hearing that several tribes were represented by delegations in this city, she sent for them. Her curiosity was fully gratified, and she don't think so much of going low. To-day the Chickasaw, Choctaw, Cherokee and Pawnee delegations of Indians assembled at the office of Indian Affairs to write their signatures in a book kept by queen Emma, to receive the autographs of all those who visit her. Those Indians who could write signed their names, and those who could not made their "totums."
Aug. 28, 1866: Alexandria Gazette: [Cherokee]
The delegation of Cherokee Indians which left Washington a few days ago for their home, west of Kansas, after stopping one night in St. Louis, proceeded by stages via Fort Scott. Some distance north of Fort Scott the whole delegation was attacked with choler. One of them, "White Catcher," died; the others are reported recovering. The people of the neighborhood and the stage drivers were completely panic-stricken.
Sept. 11, 1866: Evening Union: [Chickasaw, Choctaw]
Visit to the Secretary of the Interior.
This morning a delegation of the Chickasaw and Choctaw Indians, accompanied by Hon. D. N. Cooley Superintendent of Indian Affairs, paid a visit to the Hon. O. b. Browning the Secretary of the Interior. The interview was an agreeable one, and the exchange of civilities quite satisfactory. The delegation were much pleased with the attention and courtesy extended to them.