1875 Delegations
President in 1875: Ulysses S. Grant
Commissioners of Indian Affairs in 1875:
Edward Parmelee Smith (March 20, 1873 - Dec. ?, 1875)
John Quincy Smith (Dec. 11, 1875 - Sept. 27, 1877)
Jan. 7, 1875: Evening Star: [Navaho]
Lectures.
At Lincoln Hall.
Free Lecture. Saturday Evening, January 9th 8 o'clock, by
Governor W. F. M. Arny and Navajo Indians.
On the Aztec Races of the Rocky Mountains, their History, Habits, Religion, &c., &c., and the proper means to be used to Civilize, Christianize, and make self-sustaining the Red Men of the West. The delegation of Navajo Indians will also speak in their own language, which will be interpreted. Ushers will be in attendance to seat the audience.
Jan. 14, 1875: Evening Star: [Cherokee]
Annual Meeting of the Indian Commissioners.--The annual meeting of the Board of Indian Commissioners was held yesterday at the rooms of the board, over the Second National Bank; Gen. C. B. Fisk, of St. Louis, in the chair, and F. H. Smith, of Washington, secretary. Present, J. D. Land [of] Maine; B. Rush Roberts, of Maryland; E. A. Hoyt, of New York; Gen. C. G. Hammond, of Chicago, and Wm. Stickney, of Washington. The secretary stated that he had returned a communication relative to the application of religious denominations for the privilege of establishing schools at the Indian agencies. The request was not granted on the ground that such permission would be in violation of the treaties with Indians. He also stated that the action of the board at a former meeting, recommending the removal of the Modoc Indians still remaining in Oregon, had been approved by the Secretary of the Interior, and a letter sent by him to Congress recommending an appropriation for that purpose. The afternoon session was devoted to receiving reports from the different religious denominations laboring among the red men. The evening session was devoted to general conference. In addition to those present at the afternoon session there were Col. Adair and Mr. Ross, of the Cherokee nation; Col. Kimball and the commissioner of Indian Affairs and Major Ingalls.
Jan. 15, 1875: Evening Star: [Cherokee, Creek]
The Board of Indian Commissioners resumed their session yesterday. Messrs. D. H. Ross, W. P. Adair and J. A. Scales, of the Cherokees, and G. W. Steedham and John B. Moore, of the Creeks, addressed the commission in opposition to the establishment of a territorial government for the Indian territory. Col. E. C. Boudinot, of the Cherokee Nation, presented an argument in favor of a territorial government. The board then elected its officers and standing committees for the ensuing year, as follows: --Chairman, Gen. C. B. Fisk; secretary, F. H. Smith; purchasing committee, Messrs. Hoyt, Hammond, Long and Sibley; executive committee, Messrs. Smith, Roberts and Stickney. The annual report was adopted. The commission reassembled at the Arlington Hotel at 7 p.m., and the territorial question for the Indian territory was further discussed until adjournment.
Jan. 15, 1875: Critic Record: [Navaho]
The delegation of Navajo Indians from new Mexico, that have been in this city for several weeks past, started home last night via the Pennsylvania railroad.
April 14, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Crazy Horse and Black Twin Coming. Commissioner Smith has received a telegram from Indian Agent Saville, of the Red Cloud agency, say8ing that messengers have been dispatched for Crazy Horse and Black Twin to induce them to come to Washington with the Sioux delegation, which expects to reach Cheyenne, en route, about May 1st.
April 19, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Arrangements to bring to Washington representative chiefs of the Sioux Indians, in order to negotiate with them for the relinquishment of their claims to the Black Hills, are still in progress. According to last advices about one hundred and fifty would like to come but the government thinks a delegation of twenty-five would be sufficient.
April 29, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
[NOTE: Not in D.C., but relevant]
Sioux Logic. Those barbarous chieftains of the Black Hills, "Spotted Tail," "Red Dog," and "Red Cloud," were recently in council with a special commissioner to open negotiations for their surrender of the new Eldorado to the dominant race, when the Sioux leaders got off some rather caustic remarks. We don't know that Indians have any place in their scanty costumes for pockets, but "Spotted Tail" led off in a brief essay on those receptacles which shows he understands their use about as well as those who live to fill them. He said
"You and the ones that come here to bring news from the Great Father, want to gather money for yourselves. There is so much lying and stealing, I can't tell where it begins. I know where it ends. They keep telling me the appropriations are too small. It's a lie. They are large enough, if it came to us without going through so many. All have pockets. It wouldn't be so bad if some of our people were the commissioners and agents, we would make them have pockets just like white men."
"Red Cloud," on the real estate question, discoursed incisively as follows,
"The Great Father sends commissioners out here to tell the truth, and they pray God to help them tell the truth; but they all lie and steal. I don't understand it. When I go to see my Great Father I see land fenced in. I don't pass through it or take anything from it. I want to go to Washington to settle this matter for myself."
April 29, 1875: Critic-Record: [Dakota]
Indian Chiefs en Route for Washington. Resumption of Travel.
Omaha, April 29.--A delegation of Indian chiefs are hourly expected at Cheyenne, en route to Washington. It is reported they are strongly in favor of ceding the Black Hills to the Government.
The Union Pacific railroad is repaired, and trains are running through.
May 5, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Expected Delegation of Sioux Indians.--Nothing has recently been heard at the Indian bureau from the delegation of Sioux Indians, to visit Washington within a few days to negotiate for the relinquishment of their title to the Black Hills, but they are expected almost daily. The delegation will embrace, besides Spotted Tail and Red Cloud, all of the principal chiefs of the Sioux nation.
May 8, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux Indian Delegation.--The Commissioner of Indian Affairs has received a telegram from Agent Saville saying that the delegation of Indians, consisting of Red Cloud, Spotted Tail and other chiefs of the Brule-Sioux, the Ogalalla-Sioux, the Uncapapas, the Sanearx (sic) and Miniconjous, were unnecessarily delayed at Laramie through the influence of four or five half-breeds, who want to come to Washington as interpreters. He asked that orders be sent to Red Cloud and Little Wound to sart for Washington and proceed at once to Cheyenne. The Commissioner telegraphed the desired instruction, and it is presumed that the delegation left Cheyenne for this city this morning. The delegation of Cheyenne Indians [Cheyenne River Sioux] consisting of about ten, are supposed to be already on the way. The entire delegation, with interpreters, will consist of about thirty. Quarters have been provided for them at the Tremont House.
May 11, 1875: Daily Inter Ocean [Chicago, Ill.]: [Dakota: Oglala, Brule]
The Black Hills.
The Sioux Delegation to Washington--Further News from the Gold Region.
Special Telegram to the inter-Ocean.
Cheyenne, W.T., May 10.--The Indians from the two great bands of the Sioux arrived here to-day. The Ogallalas are represented by Chiefs Red Cloud, Little Wound, and Black Bear, and the following prominent young men of that band: Conquering Bear, American Horse, Sitting Bull, Shoulder, Tall Lance, Fast Thunder, Iron Horse, Face, Pawnee Killer, Bad Wound and his wife, Pink Pah Lentah, Red Bud of the woods, with William Garnett, interpreter; the Brules by the Chiefs Spotted Tail and Swift Bear, and the following prominent young men: crow Dog, Crazy in the Lodge, Ring Thunder and Hi Eagle, with Louis Bordeaus for interpreter.
The agents have been allowed to take only one interpreter each, and by request of the Indians the following men have volunteered to go on with the delegation: Todd Randall, James Fitzsimmons, John Bordeaux, Nicholas Jaruis and F. A. Bouchier.
Red Cloud and his people do not seem to understand the object of the President in calling them to Washington. He says he wants to go on and have a full understanding with the Great Father. He has expressed himself as favoring a treaty giving up a portion of the Indian country for a consideration. He says there is no use opposing the whites, as they will take the country any way in a few years.
Spotted Tail seems to understand very well what the object of the President is ins ending for him. He favors selling a portion of the country on the best terms possible, and making the best of it.
It is a matter of the greatest importance that the talks had with these Indians at Washington be most carefully interpreted and all written down in full, and the Indians furnished with copies signed by all the interpreters. Then there will be no misunderstanding. That is just what the Indians say they want.
Men in great numbers are constantly arriving, and many are now at Fort Laramie and vicinity awaiting the action of the government. It will cost more and take more soldiers to keep white men out of the Black Hills than it will to pay the Indians for the country, and then whip those of the tribes that object to the sale of the lands.
Jack Bowman and Rosey Ryan, both practical miners, left Red Cloud's Agency the day after Captain Mix came in with the stockade party, and went to the Black Hills. They prospected one place, going about three feet below the surface. They took thirty cents out of seven pans of dirt, and left in great haste, fearing both soldiers and Indian scouts.
George W. Homan, formerly of the Omaha Transfer Company, has entered into a contract with the citizens of this city to put on a daily line of stages from Cheyenne to Harney's Peak, in the Black Hills, as soon as government will permit him to do so.
Yankton, D.T., May 10 - Several parties of Black Hillers crossed the Missouri at Fort Sully yesterday, and three companies of military have been sent after them.
May 11, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Black Hills.--Red Cloud, Spotted Tail, and several other chiefs of the Sioux Indians will leave Cheyenne to-day for Washington, to treat with the government for the sale of the Black Hills. Gov. John M. Thayer, of Wyoming, left Omaha for this city on Saturday, to assist in dealing with the deputation of Indians. The military think there are no whites in the Hills now, and that it is impossible for mining parties to pass the cordon of scouts and military.
May 14, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Coming Sioux.--Agent Bingham, with ten of the Cheyenne river Indians, (Black Hill Sioux,) will be here to-morrow evening. They will be joined a few days later by the Brule and Ogalalla Sioux, under Spotted Tail and Red Cloud. They will quarter at the Tremont House.
May 17, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Arrival of Indian Delegations.--Major H. W. Bingham, Indian agent at Cheyenne, arrived here Saturday night, accompanied by nine Sioux Indians and William Fielder as interpreter. The names of the Indians are Lone Horn, head chief of the Miniconjous; Tall Mandan, head chief of the Two Kettle Band; Swan, Bull Eagle, Spotted Elk, the Duck, Red Shirt, Rattling Rib and Charger.
Red Cloud and Spotted Tail, with their delegations arrived this morning, being accompanied by Agents J. J. Saville and E. A. Howard, and Wm. Garnett and Louis Bordeaux as interpreters. Red Cloud's delegation consists of Little Wound, American Horse, Shoulder, Conquering Bear, Face [,?] Sitting Bull, Tall Lance, Fast Thunder, Black Bear, Iron Horse, Pawnee Killer and Bad Wound and wife. Spotted Tail's party consists of Swift Bear, Looking Horse, Crow Dog, Ring Thunder and He Eagle. Red Cloud and Spotted Tail look about as they did when here several years ago. The latter wears, beside his usual Indian toggery, a new silk ("plug") hat, which has been purchased for him since his arrival in Washington. During the morning he visited his old headquarters at the Washington House to say "how" to his pale-faced friends there. It is understood that the Indian (sic), are not in very good humor at the prospect of having to give up the Black Hills country, and it is believed they will exhibit a great deal of stubbornness in the grand council which will not probably come off before next week. It is further believed they will couple their consent to the relinquishment of the Black Hills with conditions in which the government cannot acquiesce, as they have been continually tampered with since their departure from the plains by certain white men and half breeds, mostly traders, who are desirous of getting a gratuity from the government, and have told Red Cloud and Spotted Tail that they must insist on provision being made for them in whatever treaty may be made on the pretext of their valuable services to the tribe, &c. Such provisions have heretofore been made in almost every treaty, but the Commissioner is determined to break up the practice. Five persons of the class described accompany the delegations at their own expense, and also quarter at the Tremont House. It is feared they will be the means of giving the government a good deal of trouble in negotiating with the Indians. The entire Sioux delegation will visit Gen. Cowen, acting Secretary of the Interior, and Commissioner Smith to-morrow to pay their respects.
May 18, 1875: Sun [Baltimore, Md.]: [Dakota]
Telegraph news from Washington.
Indian Arrivals.
The remaining delegations of Indians, who were en route to this city, arrived here this morning at seven o'clock, and are quartered at the Tremont House. Agent E. A. Howard is in charge of the Spotted Tail delegation, which is composed of the following: Louis Bordeaux, interpreter; Spotted Tail, Swift Bear, Looking Horse, Crow Dog, Ring Thunder, His Eagle. The Red Cloud delegation consists of the following: Dr. J. J. Saville, agent, with his wife; Wm. Garnett, interpreter; Red Cloud, Little Wound, American Horse, Shoulder, Conquering Bear, Fall, sitting Bull, Tall lance, Fast Thunder, Black Bear, iron Horse, Pawnee Killer, Bad Wound and wife. The delegation is also accompanied by the following white men: Todd Randall, Jim Fitzsimmons, Jos. Busbe, Leon F. Paliardy. After their arrival the agents visited the commissioner of Indian affairs, but no arrangements have been made as yet for a general interview, although the Indians will be received to-morrow.
May 18, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Red Cloud, Spotted Tail & Co. They Pay Their Respects To The Commissioner Of Indian Affairs--How They Look And What They Said.
Ten o'clock this morning was the hour set for the informal conference between Commissioner Smith, of the Indian Bureau, and the Indian sachems representing the Sioux nation of Indians. Long before the hour named the ante-room opposite the Secretary's office was occupied by a large number of ladies waiting to see the famous chiefs, Red Cloud, Spotted Tail and Lone Horn, who represent nearly forty thousand souls. The hour of ten passed, and no Indians had arrived. Finally at about 11 o'clock a message was received from the Tremont House saying that they were unavoidably delayed, but would certainly come later in the day; 12 o'clock arrived, and still no signs of Indians. Their absence was finally accounted for by a prominent official of the department, who said he had it on the best authority that Red Cloud sent his calico shirt to the wash last night and had not yet received it from the laundress. He had just come from the Tremont house and Red Cloud was on the war path with his little tomahawk, looking for the derelict washerwoman. Another said Spotted Tail made a diversion last night in a division of the city south of Pennsylvania avenue and came back so full of fire-water that he slept in and ruined his new plug hat, and consequently was ashamed to make his appearance this morning. Another impatient individual exclaimed, "That's just like the Indians. When you want them you can't get them, and when you don't want them they are always sure to put in an appearance much sooner than you want to see them."
Finally at about ten minutes past one o'clock p.m. the Cheyenne river Indians under Agent Bingham arrived and were shown into the ante-room, when they were introduced in order of rank, Lone Horn first, to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, each chief pausing a moment as he shook hands to look the Commissioner squarely in the eye. Lone Horn himself wore a black slouch hat ornamented with two peacock feathers, besides the usual blue blanket, and buckskin leggings, but otherwise was not decorated to any great extent. White Swan is evidently the aboriginal Beau Brummel of the party. His blanket was gayly ornamented with beads, ribbons, &c., and his head dress of white feathers tipped with black, which was the special admiration of the ladies present, trailed behind him as he walked. Commissioner Smith soon appeared, when the interpreter, Mr. Fielder, who has been with the Sioux for twenty-two years, having been captured when a child, and whose parents, a brother and two sisters were killed by Crow Indians, introduced the several chiefs, beginning with Lone Horn. At about fifteen minutes past one Spotted Tail and his delegation appeared. They were likewise introduced in the order of rank, Spotted Tail wore his new silk hat, and when introduced said, "How art you" in pretty good English. Five minutes later Red Cloud with the Ogalallas arrived. Red Cloud himself was very modestly attired. He wore but little paint, while the "part" in his hair had not been daubed with the red paint, which most of the chiefs use. He wore an ordinary black hat ornamented with a single eagle's feather and a blue blanket without ornamentation. He was introduced to Commissioner Smith and subsequently Little Wound, Bad Wound and other chiefs were presented, each shaking hands with a loud "How!"
Remarks of Commissioner Smith.
Commissioner Smith said:--"Some of you have been in Washington before, but that was before I was here, and you are all strangers to me, though I know something about you. I am glad to see you. ("How!" by the chiefs.) I suppose you have simply come to shake hands, so that we can look each other in the face and get acquainted, ("How!") Your Great Father will not be able to see you to-day, but perhaps he will do so to-morrow. I have sent for another interpreter, who will be here this evening, so that we will make no mistake in what we say to one another. I want all the interpreters to keep their ears open, and if they don't understand say so on the spot. ("How!") Now, I don't want you to find fault with your agents, unless you have good cause, and I believe you won't do so; but if you have anything to say I want you to speak your whole mind. I hope you will enjoy your stay in Washington, and go back feeling that you have good friends here. ("How!" "How!")
Red Cloud Makes A Few Remarks.
After a pause, Red Cloud rose, and, advancing to Commissioner Smith and shaking hands, said: "When I speak I always call on the Great Spirit to hear me, because I tell the truth. The white men tell me many lies, and I became so troubled I wanted to come to Washington and see the Great Father himself, and talk with him. That is why I have come to see you." Here he took his seat. A moment later he arose and said: "When I spoke of white men telling me lies, I did not mean the white men present." (Laughter, in which some of the chiefs joined.)
Speech Of Spotted Tail.
Spotted Tail "came up smiling" and shaking hands said: "I am glad to see you, and if you can do anything to help me to-day I want you to do it, and we will help each other. I havn't got much to say to-day. I have brought my own interpreters, and I want you to hear what they have to say ("How!" "How!") I have one friend in Washington. He treated me good when I was here before, and I want to go him again." (The interpreter explained that he meant the Washington house where he stopped on a previous visit.)
Commissioner Smith said these interpreters could come in whenever they liked. As for Spotted Tail's quarters, he had already made arrangements which he could not very well change.
White Swan said he had some business with the Great Father which could not be transacted in one visit. He must see him a number of times.
The Commissioner said he must remember that the Great Father has the care of so many people that he could give them but little time. He would let them know when the Great Father would see them. He then introduced Governor Thayer, of Wyoming. The Indians then visited the model room of the Patent Office.
May 18, 1875: Critic-Record: [Dakota]
Big Injuns.-- The remaining delegations of Indians who were en route to this city arrived here yesterday, and are quartered at the Tremont House. Agent E. A. Howard is in charge of the Spotted Tail delegation, which is comprised of the following persons: Louis Bordeaux, interpreter; Spotted Tail, Swift Bear, Looking Horse, Crow Dog, Ring Thunder, and He Eagle. The Red Cloud delegation consists of the following: Dr. J. J. Saville, agent, with his wife; William Garnett, interpreter; Red Cloud, Little Wound, American Horse, Shoulder, Conquering Bear, Fall, Sitting Bull, Tall lance, Fast Thunder, Black Bear, Iron Horse, Pawnee Killer, Bad Wound and wife. This delegation is also accompanied by the following white men: Todd Randall, Jim Fitzsimmons, Joseph Bushee, and Leon F. Pallardy [sic]. After their arrival the agents visited the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, but no arrangements have been made as yet for a general interview.
May 19, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Grant Indian Pow Wow.--As Secretary Delano is absent and is not expected to return until Friday or Saturday, the grand council of the Sioux will not probably take place before Monday or Tuesday next.
May 19, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux at the White House. Their Interview With Their "Great Father."
The Sioux Indians now in the city called at the White House to-day to have an interview with President Grant, styled by them their "Great Father." The President received them at half-past 12 o'clock. They were accompanied by Assistant Secretary of the Interior Cowen, and Mr. Smith, Commissioner of Indian affairs. As they filed into the President's private office he received each chief with a cordial shake of the hand. They were dressed after the manner described in yesterday's STAR, the costumes being mainly red paint, red leggings ornamented with beads, and blankets. Many of them added to this a profusion of feathers. Four or five of them arranged these feathers so that they reached almost from head to heel, and the accumulation at the back of their craniums made it look like a scoop-net.
A Third Term Indian.
The coach which drew the braves was from the Tremont House. The only ornamentation of the vehicle, other than its variegated contents, was a profusion of flags, miniature ones at that, stuck here and there along the sides of the top. It may be added that these flags each had, in bold black letters, the names of "Grant and Wilson." There is nothing remarkable in this fact, other than that these flags afforded the foundation for the following incident: When the Medicine Man piled out of the omnibus he was impressed with the flags, and wanted one. He was first given one quite plain and without the lettering. He wouldn't have it. He indicated by signs and grunts just which one he wanted, and the one he wanted was a Grant and Wilson flag. It was given to him, and with the pride of an American citizen either for the flag or for "G. and W.", he placed it at the opening apex of his burnished tomahawk, and carrying the emblem, both of nationality and the recent Presidential race, marched into the presence of his Great Father. The Great Father laughingly gave him a hearty "shake."
The President's Talk.
After the Indians had got into position in the President's room, President Grant said to them, through an interpreter, that he was glad that they had arrived safely in Washington, but that he could not talk to them to-day on the object of their visit; that he desired them to talk freely with the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and that if any disagreements arose he would endeavor to right them. He desired them to accept the statements of these officers regardless of any statements made to them by others.
This hit was evidently intended for an individual who was quite officious during the interview.
Up Stepped Lone Horn,
as straight as an arrow and bold as a mother-in-law, to deliver his little speech. While he spoke he gesticulated with his long bony forefinger. He said, as interpreted: "I am glad to see the Great Father; these people (indicating his red colleagues) are my people and relatives; this is a great country; it is not mine to-day, but it once was. He then went on to say that he did own some of this great country, but white people wanted to take it away from him. My great grandfather, my father and myself, were chiefs. I am a chief. I never claimed I owned all the country before to-day, but now I claim it. I own it alone. These men you see are soldiers and will fight.
At this juncture the President interrupted the chief by stating that he did not wish to have discussed the object of their visit to-day; whereupon he fell back, evidently muted.
Next Came Spotted Tail,
a gay-looking Indian. He, too, had forcible gestures which might have startled a nervous man, but the President never blinked. Spotted Tail was glad to see the Great Father, and wanted to have a great talk with him soon. He then grunted and fell back, when Red Cloud, a wiry Indian, with any but a lover's eye, came up. About all he said was that if the President did not appoint a day to see himself and the other chiefs, he would be very sorry.
After this they marched out, got into their coach, and drove off.
May 19, 1875; Evening Star: [Dakota]
Red Cloud, the Indian chief, whose achievements in the way of taking white scalps are unsurpassed by any other chieftain on the plains, has evidently grown suspicious of the white man's word as his speech yesterday would indicate. When a commission, with Bishop Hare as chairman, was sent to the Ogalallas last year the big chief asked him with great dignity, "Where do you live?" The reply was, "I live right near you here at Yankton, Dakota." "Then," said Red Cloud, "you don't come from the Great Father and I cannot talk with you." A second commissioner was asked the same question and gave the same answer. Red Cloud imperiously dismissed him with a wave of the hand. "And where do you live?" he asked of the third commissioner. The reply was, "I live in Washington." Red Cloud at once extended his hand saying, "If you live in Washington I believe you were sent by the Great Father and will talk with you, but I can do no business with the two men who live in this country for I do not believe the Great Father sent them."
May 20, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Interpreter employed by the Interior department to interpret the speeches at the grand council between the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian affairs and the Sioux Indian delegation is the Rev. S. D. Hinman, a clergyman of the Episcopal church, who has spent fifteen years as a missionary among the Sioux, and who is thoroughly conversant with their dialect.
May 20, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
"Blue Horse" To The President.-- Blue Horse, one of the Ogalalla Sioux chiefs who did not come to Washington with Red Cloud, sent the following letter to the President:
"There are fifty families of my people who wish to go to farming. We wish to go to work, and do not want white men to run over us. We intend to remain here, and we want neat houses and fences, and everything that white men use. We want a cow, two yoke of oxen, and a wagon; also chickens. Whatever the President may give those who visit Washington, I wish a share also. I also want a sewing machine, and other farming implements. The Great Father has promised us that we should not starve, and I wish to make a living for myself on these rivers in this way." Big Foot also sends a letter of similar import to the Great Father.
May 21, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Another Indian Talk. Red Cloud, Spotted Tail, Lone Horn And Other Chiefs Interview The Commissioner Of Indian Affairs.
Red Cloud and Spotted Tail, the Sioux chiefs, accompanied by their interpreters, visited the Commissioner of Indian Affairs this morning and somewhat imperiously demanded that their headquarters at the Tremont House be at once changed to the Washington House, where they stopped when here before, for the reason that the rooms at the Tremont are too small. The Commissioner promptly and decisively informed them that the change could not be made. He would, however, if they desired it, give them a camp and supply them with tents and good food, but they would not be allowed to go to the Washington House, and they must say no more about it. Both of the big Indians seemed to take umbrage at the decision of the Commissioner, and Red Cloud said that he would not go into camp--that he wanted his old headquarters or none at all. They then left apparently in a huff. The Commissioner has secured another parlor at their hotel large enough for a council should they desire to hold one.
Lone Horn's Party Have An Interview.
Lone Horn, and the other chiefs of the Cheyenne river Sioux, had a talk with Commissioner Smith and Gen. Cowen, acting Secretary of the Interior, this morning. The principal speech was made by Long Mandan, an old man wearing green goggles. He complained of short rations and annuities, and said his people do not have all the oxen and wagons they need. They want horses and guns. If they had guns they would not eat so much beef, and it seemed hard when they do not have all they want to eat that the Great Father would not give them guns to kill antelopes and duck. They have three hundred houses, and each family has a piece of cultivated ground. They also have some schools.
The Commissioner said all the trouble about rations arose from the fact that their numbers had increased by nearly four thousand (Black Hill Indians) since the estimates were made, and that if they fed their cousins they must expect to be short themselves. The difficulty in the way of supplying them with guns was that some bad Indians use their
Guns To Shoot White Men,
and he was afraid to let even good Indians have them, for fear they would loan or sell them to the bad Indians. He asked if muzzle-loaders would do to shoot antelopes and ducks, and Long Mandan replied in the negative, saying they preferred Winchester rifles.
Charger said a few words, after which White Swan said it could not be possible that all agents are under one Great Father, because some of them give more than others. He complained that Red Cloud and Spotted Tail got more than their share.
The Commissioner said that formerly Red Cloud and Spotted Tail's people were not counted. They are now counted, and receive no more than what they are justly entitled to.
White Swan said he had always noticed that the worse an Indian behaves the more he gets, to which the commissioner made no reply, evidently remembering the fact that Congress in making appropriations never asks whether tribes deserve aid, but whether they will fight if they don't get it. If the answer to the question is in the affirmative, the aid is always granted.
During the interview the commissioner called up Spotted Elk [Big Foot], a Black Hills chief, and asked him about his country. He replied, "I don't brag about the Black Hills country when I'm talking to white men, but I love it and don't want to leave it."
Prof. Marsh Wants To See The Big Chiefs.
"A Mr. Marsh," who recently arrived from the Red Cloud agency with a specimen of flour which Red Cloud gave him as having been issued by the agent, is in the city, and stopping at Wormley's. He has sent his card to Red Cloud and Spotted Tail, and requested them to make him a visit. These chiefs, however, have been reminded that the Great Father advised them the other day not to have any communication with white men, except in the presence of either the Secretary of the Interior or the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and the suggestion made that they invite Prof. Marsh to visit them at the Interior department, where they can have a talk through interpreters.
May 21, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
There is some curiosity expressed to know what the Sioux chief Blue Horse, whose letter to the "Great Father" was printed in yesterday's STAR, should class sewing machines among farming implements. The reasons is obvious: it is because they sew. This joke is only so-so, however.
May 22, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Spotted Tail, the chief of the Brule Sioux, dropped in on Gen. Cowen, of the Interior department, this afternoon, merely to pay his respects and say "How!" He had no "fish to fry" to-day, and was taken through several rooms and shown the carpets, pictures, &c., by the Rev. Mr. Hinman, the Sioux missionary and interpreter. He seemed in excellent humor and delighted with all he saw. By the way, it should be stated that he appears to-day in his spring suit, consisting of a blue blanket without ornament, a pair of blue flannel pants, and a white round-topped hat of the latest style.
May 22, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Red Cloud and Spotted Tail Fail To Come To Time.--The Red Cloud and Spotted Tail delegations of Sioux were to have an interview with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs to-day, but sent word that they were not yet fully prepared for a talk. It is evident that owing to the influence of the traders who accompany them the authorities will have considerable trouble in conducting the negotiations with them, and that the chiefs will be very imperious and exacting in their demands. The Commissioner of Indian affairs is determined to be very firm with them, and will make no unreasonable concessions. There is considerable probability that the negotiations will result unsatisfactorily to both, owing to the pernicious influence exercised over the Indians by the traders referred to.
May 22, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Prof. Marsh Sets Himself Right.--Professor Marsh visited the Commissioner of Indian Affairs yesterday afternoon and expressed his surprise that the report should have obtained that he had sent his card to Red Cloud and Spotted Tail, requesting an interview. He said that one of the white hangers-on of the Sioux delegation, who came on at their own expense, hoping to have some provision made for them in any treaty which might be made, and who is responsible for the story, called on him at his hotel and asked if he would see Red Cloud. The Professor said he had no objection, when the party asked him if he might bring Spotted Tail also. The Professor said he might if he desired, but that he did not have the honor of Spot's [sic] acquaintance. He was astonished when he heard that it was reported that he had sent his card to either of the chiefs, as he had done nothing of the kind, and did not propose to interfere in the pending negotiations. Commissioner Smith gave him a cordial invitation to be present at all of the official interviews at the departments, and the Professor intimated that he might avail himself of the privilege.
May 22, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The attempt to negotiate a treaty with the Sioux chiefs now in Washington for the cession of the Black Hills country to the United States proceeds somewhat slowly, and there is, moreover, doubt whether they have the power to convey possession. The twelfth article of the existing treaty stipulates that no treaty or cession shall have validity unless signed by three-fourths of the male Indians occupying or interested in the reserved lands. In the event, therefore, that a treaty is negotiated in Washington, it would seem necessary, in order to perfect it, that the requisite additional signatures should be procured.
May 22, 1875: Daily Chronicle [Washington, D.C.]: [Dakota]
[Extracts HJV Delegation file 1875]
Red Cloud and Spotted Tail went to the BIA yesterday morning "and somewhat imperiously demanded that their headquarters at the Tremont House be at once changed to the Washington House,...for the reason that their rooms at the Tremont are too small." The CIA said he could let them set up a camp and have good food and tents, but they could not go to Washington House. "Both of the big Indians seemed to take umbrage at the decision and...Red Cloud said that he would not go into camp--that he wanted his old headquarters or none at all. They then left, evidently not very much pleased."
May 24, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Spotted Tail As A Driver.--As a driver Spotted Tail is not a success. The other day when the Sioux delegation visited the navy yard Spotted Tail rode in the carriage of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and the later desiring to test his dexterity as a driver, handed him the reins. Spotted Tail took them, one in each hand, and urging the horse by a series of jerks and loud ejaculations soon had him under a full run. Commissioner Smith not caring to unnecessarily imperil the limbs and lives of the persons in the vehicle, and concluding that old Spot was a better rider than a driver, relieved him of the reins, and the horse was soon reduced to a decent rate of speed.
May 24, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Sioux Seceders From The Tremont House.--Six of the Sioux delegation now in Washington became dissatisfied with their quarters at the Tremont House yesterday, and picking up their baggage, which consisted of a palm-leaf fan, a tomahawk, and a calumet each, departed in Indian file for their old tramping ground at the Washington House. Neither Red Cloud nor Spotted Tail went with this party, as has been stated, but they are still at the Tremont House. The names of the secessionists are Black Bear, American Horse, Conquering Bear, and Shoulder, of Red Cloud's party, and Crow Dog and He Dog, of Spotted Tail's delegation. Acting Secretary of the Interior Cowen notified the proprietor of the Washington House that the government would pay no bills which the Indians might contract at his house, and it is therefore probable they will soon return to the Tremont House. The Indians make no complaint in regard to their fare at the Tremont, but complain of the small, close rooms into which they are crowded. They say their quarters are insufferably close, while at the Washington House they could be accommodated with large, airy rooms. The Indians appeared in their rooms in undress uniform to-day. Most of them are provided with calico shirts, which they wear outside of their leggings. As the latter reach only to the thighs, and the former are somewhat abbreviated in length, they present rather a picturesque appearance. If the Indians at the Washington House refuse to return to the Tremont House they will probably be allowed to remain until the arrival of Commissioner Smith, whose return from New York is looked for to-morrow or next day. The grand concil will not take place until the return of Secretary Delano, who is expected in a few days.
May 24, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Isn't it about time to stop treating the Indians as babies and keeping them exacting and arrogant by systematic petting? The recent conduct of the Sioux chiefs, now in this city, shows the defiant temper they are in, and should make the government authorities very firm in their treatment of them. Red Cloud has been in bad humor for over a year, because the Commissioner of Indian Affairs insisted on taking a frequent census of his people and issuing supplies accordingly. Formerly the number was estimated, and his tribe received more than they were entitled to. He has never liked the counting business, and has done all he could to thwart the intention of the authorities in this respect. Add to this the pernicious influence exercised over the principal chiefs by interested traders and half-breeds, and the government finds them in a very unaminable mood. Under the circumstances it is not unlikely that they will return to their country dissatisfied, and ripe for a bloody war on the whites. Such a result is to be deprecated, and the government should spare no pains to avert it, if possible. Numbering over 40,000 souls, the Sioux could muster from 5,000 to 7,000 warriors--enough to keep half our standing army actively employed for months.
May 25, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Our Copper Colored Guests. A Big Talk With The Great Father To-Morrow.
The Sioux Indian delegation went on the excursion of the steamer Mary Washington down the Potomac last night and returned at about three o'clock this morning, highly delighted with their trip. Shoulder, of Red Cloud's band, and Crow Dog and He Dog, of the Spotted Tail delegation, left the Washington house last night and returned to the Tremont. American Horse, Black Bear and Conquering Bear were still at the Washington house at noon, but it was expected would return to the Tremont during the day. To-morrow, at noon, the President receives the entire delegation, when it is understood he will in general terms, give them the ultimatum of the government. He deems it imperatively necessary to do this, in view of the insubordinate spirit they have recently exhibited. The agents and interpreters do not believe there will be any trouble in negotiating with the chiefs, and that if the "Great Father" will tell them plainly what they must and what they must not do, they will follow his advice.
May 25, 1875: Critic-Record: [Dakota]
Poor Lo's Misfortunes.
Philadelphia, May 25,--The Evening Bulletin of yesterday has the following special:
Washington, May 24.--The Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs have been assailed in some of the so-called Independent papers for refusing to allow Red Cloud and Spotted Tail to change their quarters from the Tremont House, a temperance hotel, to the Washington House, where they were quartered one year ago when they paid a visit to their great father. This request seems a trivial one, but the refusal of Commissioner Smith to grant it was at the time for the interest and good of the Indians, although they cannot be made to see it. When the acts are fully understood, the papers that are now censuring the Commissioner will realize how hastily they have acted, and how unjust their criticisms have been. When the Indians were quartered at the Washington House a year ago, they were supplied with all the whiskey they could drink, and a party of unprincipled sharpers got hold of the braves and took them to the worst haunts in the city, where they spent night after night in debauchery with the vilest women. After the Indians had departed for their reservations, the Interior Department was presented with a bill of one thousand four hundred dollars for extras, in which doctor's bills and druggist's bills formed a very large part. The Indian Commissioner refused to pay the bill until the details were furnished and this brought a letter from the manager of the hotel in which he admitted that most of the account was to cover the expense incurred by the Indians while living in debauchery. In view of these circumstances, Commissioner Smith determined that the present Indian delegation should be sent to the Tremont House; but when Red Cloud and Spotted Tail arrived here on their second visit, last week, and found that they had not been provided with quarters at the Washington House, they grew wrothy [sic] and demanded of the Commissioner that their quarters should be changed, which request was refused. The Indians yesterday, under the advice of some sharpers, took the matter into their own hands, and went to the Washington House and took up their quarters there. This is the whole story. It is known that commissioner Smith will not allow them to remain where they are now, but any attempt to force them away may and probably will create trouble.
May 26, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Story Contines [sic] To Travel through the newspapers that "Red Cloud and Spotted Tail have left the Washington house and gone back to the quarters assigned them by the Commissioner." The two chiefs named have not quartered at the Washington house at all during their present visit, and consequently did not "go back" to the Tremont house. The Star printed the facts at the time, giving the names of the seceders, which did not embrace either Red Cloud or Spotted Tail.
May 26, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Indian Council at the White House. President Grant and The Sioux Chiefs.
The Sioux chieftains now in this city who promised to call on the President at 12 o'clock noon to-day, didn't put in an appearance at the White House until a quarter before one. When they made their appearance they were marched into the presence of their Great Father, in his office, and as they were severally introduced said "how." After they had got comfortably fixed.
President Grant Addressed Them, saying the object of bringing them here to-day was to say something to which he expected no reply on their part. He wanted to be a friend of the Indians, and was anxious to do what is for their good. The country they now live in, as they must be well aware, is entirely incapable of supplying their wants. By the treaty of 1868, clothing was guaranteed to them for seven years--provisions only for five years. The food and provisions given them for the last two years had been a gratuity on the part of Congress. This may be taken from them at any time without a violation of the treaty. His object now was to make some agreement with them by which they and their children may be secure for the future. (How!) It must be evident to them that if supplies of food are withheld by the white people it will be impossible for them to live where they now are. They must see that the white people outnumber the Indians two hundred to one in the territories of the Untied States. This number is increasing rapidly, and before many years it will be impossible to fix the limits where the Indians can permit the white people from going. It will soon become necessary for white people to go to countries, whether occupied by Indians or not, the same as they now go from one state to another. For this reason it is desirable that they be located where they can get support beyond any contingency. I do not propose that they shall leave their homes where they were born and raised without their consent, but I want to point out to them the advantages both to themselves and children if they will enter into an agreement I shall propose to them. There is a territory south of where they now live, where game and grass is better, and where whites can be sent among them to teach them in the arts of civilization. This year there has been great difficulty in keeping the white people from the Black Hills in search of gold, but the government thus far has permited them from going and remaining. Each recurring year this same difficulty will be encountered unless the right to go to that country is granted by the Indians. In the end this purpose to get into that country may lead to hostilities between the whites and the Indians without any special faults on either side. All this trouble I wish to avoid. I want to see the Indians well-provided for, so that they will be trespected [sic] by my successor and other administrations in the future. I want the Indians to think of what I have said to them. I don't want them to talk to-day, but to speak freely with the Secretary of the Interior and Commissioner of Indian affairs.
A Denial By Spotted Tail Of The "Heap Big Liar" Story.
When the President had concluded this address, Spotted Tail stepped forward and said, with some show of indignant feeling:
My Great Father: It has been printed in some of the papers that I called the great chief (Secretary of the Interior) a "heap big liar." This is not so. Whoever said I called him that was only the publisher of the newspaper who first printed it. Whoever said it said it himself. I didn't say it. I think too much of my friends to call them "heap big liar."
The Indians then withdrew, and proceeded to coaches to their hotel.
May 26, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Cha-pink-pa-lu-ta, or Red Bud's Devotion to Her Dusky Mate.--Cha-pink-pa-lu-ta, or "Red Bud," the only woman accompaning the Sioux delegation is rather comely in appearance and is about twenty-five years of age. She is the wife of Bad Wound to whom she is very much attached as the following incident will show. The Indian agents were restricted in the number of chiefs they were to bring to Washington, and were forbidden by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs to bring any women. The latter, however, was as anxious to come as the braves, and when told of the order of the Commissioner there was weeping and wailing among the dusky maidens of the forest. Cha-pink-pa-lu-ta quietly made up her mind that she would go at all hazards, and several hours after the departure of the wagon containing her husband for the railroad she mounted a swift horse and with her raven tresses streaming in the wind went flying across the country in pursuit of the party. She came up to them when near the station, and leaping from her steed, which she turned adrift, mounted the wagon and clinging to her husband with tears and entreaties besought him to allow her to accompany him. He endeavored to persuade her to return; and some of the braves were inclined to use violence to compel her to do so. She firmly declined however to trust her husband to the seductions of Washington society unattended, and even the efforts of Agent Saville to induce her to return were wholly unavailing. She seems to greatly enjoy her visit to the pale faces and keeps an eye on "the old man" at all times, invariably accompanying him in his walks about town. This incident serves to illustrate the truth of Bryant's couplet slightly modified--
"Skins may differ, but affection
Dwells in white and red the same."
May 26, 1875: Daily Chronicle [Wash., D.C.]: [Dakota]
Extracts, HJV delegation file 1875:
President will meet with Sioux today at noon, and give them a dressing down, "in view of the insubordinate spirit they have recently exhibited." Shoulder, of Red Cloud's band, and Crow Dog, and he Dog, of Spotted Tail's band, left Washington House on Monday night and went to the Tremont, but American Horse, Black Bear, and Conquering Bear are still at the Washington House.
May 27, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Grand Indian Council To-day. The Black Hills Negotiations.
The first grand council between the Sioux chiefs and the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs took place at the Interior department to-day. After the chiefs had taken seats the Commissioner of Indian Affairs said: "In your call yesterday upon the President he, after talking to you awhile directed, [sic] you to go to the Secretary of the Interior, and he is here ready to talk with you. You have already shaken hands with him, and he has bid you welcome."
Speech Of Secretary Delano.
Secretary Delano: Before I say anything I wish to say to all the interpreters that if the interpretation made by the person who have been designated to translate, shall in their opinion be inaccurate at any time, I wish them to report the inaccuracy at once, and have the correction made, because my object is through the short hand reporter that I have employed and through the reporters of the press, to obtain an accurate account of what is said. Chiefs and head men of the Sioux Indians: I am glad to see you here to-day. You have been invited here to confer with the government and your Great Father; the object of this conference is your welfare, and the welfare of the white people of the United States. I want you to remember and understand all I shall say to you." [close quote; no open quotation mark given] After referring to the condition of the Sioux prior to 1868, and explaining the treaty made that year and its provisions, he said the government had done more than it agreed to do, while the Sioux were all the better and happier for having lived at peace with the government. He further explained that the white people were pressing the government for the privilege of settling the country north of the North Platte and along the Smoky Hill fork of the Republican river. He also told them of the pressure brought on the government by gold hunters to get possession of the Black Hills, a country unfitted for agricultural purposes. The government had been to the expense of $1,260,000 [?] per year to feed and clothe the Sioux, and he feared if some satisfactory arrangements could not be made Congress would refuse to continue its appropriations. "The President," said the Secretary, "has no money, I have no money, and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs has no money except as Congress gives it to us. Now if you don't do what is right, Congress will refuse to give you any more aid; so I want you to think about it, and do what is best for yourselves and children. I have not called you here to force you to do as we like, but to ask you to carefully consider our proposition." He then told them of the desirableness of the Indian Territory, with its fertile land and genial climate, and said it was the opinion of all the friends of the Indians that that was the best place for them to settle. The whites could be kept out of that country, and there the Indians can be taught to take care of themselves, and live like white men. If they thought favorably of the proposition he would send down a delegation of the chiefs to see the country. By going there all danger of disturbance would be avoided, and they would get a country much better than the one they now occupy. He desired them to think over the matter and let him know.
Commissioner Smith Makes A Few Remarks.
Commissioner Smith here said: "Last year the President sent commissioners to you, to see if you wouldn't give up your right to hunt on the north fork of the Republican. Congress has voted $25,000 for you, as a present, if you will surrender this right. The The [sic] commissioners reported that you were not quite ready to negotiate, and one of the Ogalalla chiefs wanted to go once more on the Niabrara [sic] river, and see if he could find any buffalo; so the business was not finished. Now this money was given you for one year, and that year goes out in about one moon. So that if the President don't get your answer within thirty days he can't give you the money. I know that when you went down to hunt, last year, your agent sent word asking me to send you provisions, or you would starve; so I suppose you didn't find many buffalo. Therefore the privilege you are wanted to give up is not a very valuable one. So if you are ready to make an arrangement I want you to tell us what we shall purchase with the $25,000. If you have not sufficiently considered the matter, you can wait until you come again, and then let me know."
After a pause Spotted Tail arose, and shaking hands with the Secretary and the Commissioner, resumed his seat and said (his remarks being interpreted by Rev. M. Hinman [sic]);
Spotted Tail's Oration.
"My Father: I have considered all the Great Father told me, and have come here to give you an answer. When people have fully considered a subject their conclusion ought to be a good one. I made the treaty with Generals Sherman and Harney in 1868, and have not broken it. I came here to shake hands and make a new treaty. I came here to ask for a great deal. I want good clothes, such as you (pointing to Secretary Delano and Commissioner Smith) both wear. (How!) When I was here before the President gave me my country, and I put my stake down in a good place, and there I want to stay. I know my country is a good country, because I put things in the ground and they grow up. I have asked for a saw mill, a plow, and other things to farm with. My Father, one thing displeases me. Your surveyors have come and put down stakes, and I don't like it, and want them removed. (How!) I respect the treaty, but the white men who come in our country do not. You speak of another country, but it is not my country; it does not concern me, and I want nothing to do with it. I was not born there, but if it is such a good country you ought to send the white men now in our country there and let us alone. (How! How! How! by the entire delegation and laughter among the pale faces present.) You say you will give us $25,000 if we will give up the privilege of hunting buffalo outside our reservation. If you will add $15,000 to this we will give you the buffalo (Laughter.) We came here in a great hurry and had but little time to consult our people and we want you to send some men to us to talk the matter over. The weather is warm and Congress is not in session, and after we consider the subject more we would like to come to Washington with fifty chiefs to settle the matter with Congress. I want to have one more council here and then go home."
Secretary Delano said the survey referred to by Spotted Tail was made in pursuance of the treaty of 1868, and the stakes must not be removed. In regard to the $25,000, he said the President nor himself had no power to increase it to $40,000.
Mr. Hinman said Spotted Tail denied that there was any provision for a survey fixing their boundaries, and the Secretary told him to say to Spotted Tail that it was "in the book."
Spotted Tail said he and Red Cloud were there when the treaty was made, and he heard nothing about it. At any rate he wanted a different line drawn.
The Secretary explained that this could not be done without the consent of Congress and impressed upon Spotted Tail the danger of delay. Bloodshed might follow if some arrangement was not speedily made.
Old Spot Displeased.
Spotted Tail.--"What you say about bloodshed displeased me very much. The country there belongs to us, and not to the white people. Instead of encouraging the white people to go there you ought to punish them. You say you are my friends, and both of you say you have no money, but Congress gives money for us and for you."
The Secretary asked Mr. Hinman to endeavor to make him understand that the government might be unable to permit white men from going into their country. He also asked him to explain the $25,000 appropriation to Spotted Tail.
After conferring with Spotted Tail, Mr. Hinman said he fully comprehended it, but said his people were stubborn, and he was afraid to speak the same, as the Secretary was afraid of the newspapers here. He said further: "I want a new line, and would like it if instead of paying surveyors you would save the money and add it to the $25,000 for the buffaloes. (Laughter.) You told me you had no money, so I do not ask for your money but the money of Congress. (Laughter.) One word more. Those white men, have Indian wives. They belong to my tribe and would do us good. They paid their way on [sic] here, and we would like it if the Great Father would reimburse them for coming here." (How! How! How!)
The Secretary made no answer to this. The delegation here left, and as they did so Red Cloud said he came to Washington expecting to get something, but he found everybody poor, at which there was much laughter. Another council will be held at the department to-morrow.
May 27, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Rev. Mr. Hinman, who accompanies the Sioux delegation, and who is thoroughly conversant with their language, having spent fifteen years among them as a missionary, states that their language is a very perfect one, and so complete and systematic that it is impossible for an Indian to make a grammatical blunder in talking. The same can be said of but few other tongues.
May 27, 1875: Sun [Baltimore, Md.]: [Dakota]
The President and the Indians.
The Sioux Delegation at the White House--Big Speech by President Grant--The Black Hills Wanted--spotted Tail Pitches into the Press--Display of War Paint, Etc.
Washington, May 26.--The Sioux Indian delegation called upon the president by appointment at one o'clock to[day, accompanied by General Cowen, Acting Secretary of the Interior and Commissioner of Indian Affairs Smith. Theyw ere received by the President in his private office. As each Indian entered the room, he advanced towards the president, and being presented by an interpreter, shook hands with him. The Indians then arranged themselves in a semi-circle around the table, Spotted Tail and Red Cloud having prominent positions. Large number of ladies and gentlemen were present, including Governor Pennington of Dakota, Governor Thayer of Wyoming, ex-Governor Mccormick of Arizona and Senator Hamilton of Texas. The President, through Wm. Fielder, an interpreter, addressed the Indians as follows.
[Section edited out -- basically as reported elsewhere]
The Indians then withdrew, evidently disappointed in not having had an opportunity to reply to the President. They were in full costume, with a plentiful supply of paint and feathers.
May 28, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux Chiefs Want Time. They Declined To Go Into Council To-day.
The Sioux chiefs sent word to the Secretary of the Interior and the commissioner of Indian Affairs this morning that they were not prepared for another council to-day, as they had not sufficiently considered what was told them by the officers of the government yesterday. It is understood that Spotted Tail and most of the other chiefs were ready for another talk to-day, but that Red Cloud, not having fully digested the subject, wanted more time. The department will not hurry them, but will give them a reasonable time in which to consider the various matters presented yesterday. The chiefs have a large parlor at the Tremont house, which they use as a council room. They hold frequent councils in this room, and when so doing lock the doors and allow no one to enter, not even their own interpreters. Judging from the sounds proceeding from this council room, their discussions are very earnest and frequently quite heated. The chiefs say they do not understand what the Secretary of the Interior means when he tells them that the government does not intend to force them to go, and then tells them that if they do not go the white people will come into their country, and probably Congress will withhold appropriations from them. They think that this looks like forcing them. They say they did not know they were to be allowed to speak yesterday, and were, therefore, not prepared. They have agreed that they will never go down into the Indian territory, and if the government attempts to force them, it will require all the army to move them. They think, however, they can get along without the Black Hills, and that there is room enough in their own reservation without these hills. The fact is the government does not want to force them to go to [sic] Indian territory, but merely suggests that they go there. It will be content with the relinquishment of the Indian title to the Black Hills and the privilege of the Sioux to hunt on the north fork of the Republication. Their present reservation, which is in Dakota, is about 300 miles square, and consequently embraces 90,000 square miles. The Black Hills country, which lies in their reservation, embraces about 1,800 square miles, and should they give this up they would still have a territory containing over 88,000 square miles for about 35,000. This territory would be equal in extent to the whole of new England with its millions of inhabitants. As to-morrow is a holiday in the departments the next grand council will not be held until Monday next.
May 28, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Spotted Tail, the orator of the day on the part of the Sioux at the grand council yesterday, is a logician and a diplomatist, as his speech reported in The Star proves. The price he fixed upon his hunting privilege shows that he has imbibed the genuine Yankee shrewdness in "dickering," and is determined not to sell his rights at too low a figure. His selection by all the Sioux bands yesterday as their spokesman shows that they consider his head level.
May 28, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The robbery of the Sioux chiefs yesterday while they were at dinner, of their money and shirts, was one of the meanest thefts on record. If the thieves are captured they should be turned over to the chiefs for the administration of Indian justice.
May 28, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
A Sneak Thief Steals The Shirts And Money Of The Sioux Chiefs.--While the Indians were at dinner yesterday, some one entered their room and stole eight shirts from the Minneconjous band, five dollars from Spotted Tail, five dollars from Swift Bear, nineteen dollars from Face, and five dollars from Pawnee Killer. There is always a crowd gazing at them, and the articles were taken by some one who knew that the Indians left everything in their rooms. Conquering Bear has not left the Washington House, and says he will stay there as long as the proprietor will board him. He asked some of the white men who came with the Indians to settle his bill, and he would pay them in horses when he returns to the Sioux country. He calls the Indians who did return to the Tremont House fools, and says he will die before he will go back there if the government attempts to force him. He declined to attend the council yesterday.
May 28, 1875; Critic Record: [Dakota]
The Papal Delegate visit the President and Cabinet.....
The ablegate and party were escorted from the Department of the Interior, at the request of Secretary Delano and Mr. Smith, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, to the Tremont House, wehre the delegation of Sioux chiefs were presented to the party and conversed a little while through the interpreters. The ablegate and party leave to-day for Pittsburgh.
May 28, 1875: Critic Record: [Dakota]
Another Indian Conference.--Yesterday afternoon the Black Hills Indians had a pow-wow with the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. The object of the Government officials was to induce the Indians to abandon the Black Hills country and locate in the Indian Territory, and also to give up their right to hunt in certain localities in consideration of being paid $25,000; but the Chiefs were obstinate, and at the same time exhibited a keen eye to business. They did not want to remove to the Indian Territory,, but they might surrender the hunting privileges if the compensation were increased to $40,000. They wanted farming implements, and Spotted Tail seemed to think that he could not be a successful agriculturist unless he got a sawmill. Then they threw themselves back on their dignity and talked of returning home immediately, perhaps to come back with a larger delegation, and renew negotiations. Nothing seems to have been accomplished by the conference. They stated last night that they will not hold any council with the Secretary of the Interior to-day, but will have a talk among themselves. They say they do not understand what the Secretary means when he tells them that the Government does not intend to force them to leave their reservation, and then tells them if they do not go to the white men will be allowed to go into their country. They think there is r9oom enough for them on their reservation without the Black Hills, but they are determined not to go to the Indian Territory. They claim that it will take the whole force of the Government to drive them out. Conquering Bear still remains at the Washington House, and says he is determined to die rather than go to the Tremont.
While the Indians were at dinner yesterday some one entered their room and stole eight shirts from the Wiuneconon [sic] band, five dollars from Spotted Tail, five dollars from Swift Bear, and nineteen dollars from Face and five from Pawnee Killer. There is always a crowd gazing at them, and the articles were taken by some one who knew that the Indians left everything in their rooms.
May 29, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Red Cloud's Views.
Several of the Sioux chiefs, including Red Cloud and Spotted Tail, had another opportunity of airing their oratory at the Interior department late yesterday afternoon. The object of their visit was to complain of the poor quality and insufficiency of the rations furnished to their people by the government. The general uncertainty of the white man has passed into a proverb, which would apply with equal truth to the noble red men of the forest glades. Those who know them best do not have the highest appreciation of their truthfulness, and consequently their representations are not to be invariably received with entire confidence. There can be no doubt, however, that in many cases they are sadly and even outrageously treated by their agents and others. The burden of Red Cloud's complaint yesterday was that the food furnished his people was bad, the clothing was bad, considerable [sic] of the flour and sugar was bad, and the tobacco was ditto; in fact, his supplies were a bad lot generally. This was developed by a series of questions by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and Prof. Marsh. His words in reply to the question whether he was satisfied with his agent were diplomatic, but significant. He said:
"When I came first to Washington the President told me [sic] would give me an agent, and I must look out for him. If he didn't please me to bring him back. That he had a great many men and would give me a good one. I have brought him back for you to consider the matter. I grant the Great Spirit to hear me and give me a good and wise man for an agent."
A Tribute To The Great West.
That's what kind of a man he wants, and this is the kind of man he don't want:
"I don't want a western man, but a man from the east, and a man that is healthy. These western men fill their pockets, and when they are full they fill their hats, and then say "good-by" and go away."
May 29, 1875: Critic Record: [Dakota]
The President's speech to the Indian delegation was a much longer one than the Great Father is accustomed to deliver, and characterized by a friendly spirit which we trust impressed our red brethren favorably. The President very truly said he was a friend of the Indians, and there is no part of his administration in which amongst the devious ways by which justice and fair dealing are obstructed, that he appears to have been more read [sic], and anxious to pursue the right course than in dealing with them. The Indian problem is a difficult one to solve, though ultimate extinction of the race seems its most probable solution. Present duties involve details in managing these wards of the nation that make it difficult to decide what is best and often more difficult to carry it out. The treaty rights of the various tribes and nations are often in the way. The President suggests that the settlement of the Sioux, on the Indian Territory west of Arkansas, is in contemplation as the best for all parties under the circumstances. It will leave the Black Hills country open to white settlement and bring the Indians all into a section set apart for them. It is not ascertained whether this will be acceptable to the Cherokees and other civilized nations now settled there, who parted with the territory west of 96 degrees longitude, under the treaty of 1866, which provides for the payment for said land and the settlement of friendly Indians only on it. As the government has not paid for the lands, and the Sioux are not friendly with the Cherokees, it is a question whether their settlement there would not be a violation of treaty rights. We know it is not the President's fault that the Cherokees have not been paid for their lands, for he has shown his desire to carry out that obligation of the treaty' but while he is careful to see that the Sioux have their treaty rights cared for we hope he will keep an eye also to those of the Cherokees.
May 29, 1875: Daily Chronicle: [Dakota]
Extract HJV delegation file 1875:
The delegation has a large parlor room at the Tremont House which they use for conferences, and when they are in council, no one can go in, but even interpreters. Their discussions are very earnest and, judging from the sounds proceeding, "frequently quite heated." Indians say can't understand when government means when it says it won't force them to go to reservation in Indian Territory, but also that it can't keep whites out of black hills, and congress probably will withhold their appropriations, "They think this looks like forcing to them." They say they will never go to Indian Territory, and it will take entire army to force them.
June 1, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Indian Council To-Day. Conference with the Sioux Chiefs.
The Indians had another conference with Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at the Interior department at 10 o'clock this morning. There was present Secretary Delano and Commissioner Smith, on the part of the department; Professor Marsh was also in attendance. The "talk" commenced at 10:30 o'clock in Assistant Secretary Cowan's room, which was crowded with a group of curious people--male and female--desirous of getting a glimpse of the red men of the forest.
Commissioner Smith Said To The Indians:
When you were asked here last as a whole delegation the Secretary laid before you matters for your consideration. He asked you to go to another country south of where you now are. He asked you to think about the offer that Congress had made you of $25,000 for the relinquishment of the right to hunt south of the Republican fork and in Nebraska. He asked you to consider seriously the trouble we are all in now, both the Indians and the government, relative to keeping away white men from the Black Hills for mining purposes, also the impossibility of permiting the white people from going where they expect gold can be found. When you were here last he asked you about going to the Indian country, and you said you could not think of it. So that subject does not need to be discussed to-day. You wanted $15,000 more to relinquish part of your hunting ground, which the Secretary told you he could not give, and if you do not take that within a month he cannot even give you the $25,000 voted by Congress. You have had a long time to think over these subjects, and I hope this is the last interview we will need to have with each other.
Red Cloud's Reply.
The Indians, upon the conclusion of the Commissioner's remarks, put their heads together and spoke one with the other in low tones. Then Red CLoud, in a black suit, stepped up and said: "Great Spirit, hear me, and have mercy upon me and pity me. (Long pause.) I say that I am brought up so that before I speak I call heaven and earth to witness what I say. I have remembered the words of my Great Father--I havn't [sic] let them go. Look at me; I am Red Cloud. The President must have made a mistake when he said when I was here before our treaty was for thirty-give years. When I came again he told me that it was for thirty years, only leaving out the years which have passed over us since I first came. (Pause.) The President at that time asked me to select a place for an agency and I selected it. These two men that are beside me told me last summer that $25,000 had been appropriated and wanted me to give up the right to hunt in Nebraska. I said wait; let the Great Father hold the money for me. I said I would come and see if he really had the money in his hands--$10,000 in one hand, and the balance in the other. I have children and I am not willing to do anything which will make us poor. I wish to tell you this $25,000 will only pay for the land as far as where Chief Whistler was killed--the land above that is not paid for. It is four years since I have been here. I have been shown a large building here where the money is kept, and I know I have a great deal there. I will take the $25,000 which you offer, but before winter I wish you would get more. When I came here before the President said nothing about giving up the right to hunt on the Republican. I have seen little of him this time, but I think it hard that he wishes us to go to the Indian country. I told you twice I won't go there; my country is a good country, and whatever we plant grows there. We selected it because it was a good country, and we wish to keep it. I didn't come here to have any lengthy dispute with the Great Father. I came to tell you a few things that don't please me. I don't like the running of the Nebraska line through our country. I consider that as robbery. It was run through our country without saying anything to us. I want the stakes taken up and run further south. Last winter, when the annuities came, my people were away, and I drew the annuity goods. Some of them had gone to the White Mountains to hunt, and others to the Black Hills for lodge poles, and only a few were present when the census was taken. We have a great many people and I ask for more annuity goods. When I came here I was told we were to have the white man's food. I am not satisfied with the food we receive. I want good food sent out every year for my children. I look upon all my people as my children. I want pork put up in barrels, not bacon, as I think some of my children have died through eating bad pork. We would like to have rice, hominy and tea among our rations. I wish to live like a white man, and hereafter when you give us wagons give us a span of horses with harness. I mean with harness complete. Our men can drive them. They don't like to drive cattle. We would like to have some implements for planting. A man came out to see me who closed his eyes and called on the Great Spirit. I asked that man for powder and guns. He said he would give them to me, and he didn't. I think some of the white people don't tell the truth. I was promised powder and guns and I don't get them. This is all I have to ask for. The $25,000 which you give me is so small that I can almost hold it in my two hands. I wish to have a commission of six men sent out to my country. Of these I wish to choose three. When you choose all the men it is impossible for my people to agree. I don't wish an agent sent to me who is a soldier. I am a man of peace. If our horses run near the soldiers' camp they point guns at them. I want the soldiers taken away. I don't want an agent who is a soldier. And the white people at my agency and the soldiers have been asking me to tell the Great Father to give me a soldier for an agent, but I don't want one.
White Swan, of the Cheyenne Agency, then spoke for Lone Horn, who introduced him as a "young man." He said: I came here with these chiefs. I don't want to work in anybody's interest but these people who came with me to speak for them. I wish to know first whether the Great Father counts us one people or not; whether we have all the same rights. The people who came from the west side of the reservation have argued some points, and I am going to speak on them. I would like to know why the Great Father sent for us anyhow?
The Commissioner.--Didn't he hear it from the Great Father himself?
White Swan resuming:--Since I came here--I didn't come to have an argument with the Great Father at all. I came here with less than ten persons. We cannot consider much of anything; we have many people behind us. The Great Father always has men to do his business. He has a Congress and a Senate to settle matters of importance. We came here to know what you wanted with us. That's what we came for, and came in a hurry. The great Father spoke to me about one thing, and kind of frightened me. I didn't think I didn't have a country of my own, when he spoke about sending me to some other person's country to live. It is not necessary for me to take word back to my people about the Indian territory. It wouldn't do for me to talk about it. It wouldn't be right. I wish when I return home you would give me all the assistance in your power to keep the whites out of my country. You have done a mean thing to us in not furnishing us the means for laboring.
He then complained of the rations furnished to him, covering about the same ground previously gone over by Red Cloud.
Secretary Delano Then Said:
The Great Father and the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs are the friends of the Indians, and wish to make them well off. The Great Father sees that the white people are going to spread themselves all over that country. This will destroy the game, so that when it is gone the Indian cannot live as he used to live. The Great Father wants to provide for the Indian when this state of affairs comes. The treaty of 1868 was made in consequence of the things I have just stated; but that treaty provided only for while [sic] that as long as game was plenty the Indian might hunt in Nebraska and the Smoky Hill fork. It also provided that the Sioux nation should have a large hunting ground. Now the Great Father sees that the game is gone. White people have got in, and instead of buffalo there are cattle, and when the Indian goes to hunt there is danger of disturbing the peace and bringing on trouble. In their country there is a region called the Black Hills, and white people think there is gold in it. It is no use to the Indian, anymore than a country where there is no game. The Great Father sees danger of trouble up in the Black Hills in consequence of the desire of the white people to go in after gold. He wants to see if he can't stop these difficulties. The Great Father and many others think if the Indians would go to the Indian country it would be better for them than to stay where they are; but as the Indians are unwilling to go, we are not going to compel them to go--we are going to give that up; we are going to do the best we can with them where they are. Now, as they won't go to the Indian coutnry, I am going to propose to them the next best thing which is in our power. It is this: Their hunting privileges in Nebraska are not worth a straw to them. Still if they will give up their right to hunt in Nebarska and on the Smoky Hill Fork we will give them $25,000. If they do they must do it immediately, because in one moon the time will be gone, so that we won't have the money to give. I can't promise them any more. I don't want to deceive them. If they agree to surrender these hunting privileges we will close the matter up and make a treaty--then I will talk to them about the Black Hills and the Commissioners. Now I want to know if they agree to give their hunting privileges up, if so we will have the treaty drawn up and signed.
To the interpreter. Ask them if we shall draw up the paper.
Little Wound Then Spoke As Follows:
Whenever anybody is asked to settle something which belongs to another, he considers well before he gives an answer. He had always told his people when they went on hunts in Nebraska not to interfere with the railroad or kill people, and the young men gave him their ear and did as he advised them. His people had been peaceable, but the whites had killed one of his chiefs, and he had asked his Great Father for pay, but had received nothing. The whites had also since that time stolen 73 of his horses, and he had come to demand payment from the Great Father.
Secretary Delano.--"Tell him, Mr. Hinman, that it would be best if he would talk to the point--about the hunting privilege."
Mr. Hinman.--"It would be of no use; he will insist on finishing what he has to say."
Little Wound.--"I have made up my mind to take the two handfulls or more of money for the hunting privilege. I was born in the white man's country forty-six years ago. I think I have equal rights with the whites. I am still the friend of the white man, but I am not treated right. I don't get enough rations, and I don't want to give up my country. I would like you to remove the stakes put down by the surveyors on our southern boundary, and remove the military post now building near our agency, because I am afraid the soldiers will make trouble." He closed by complaining of the insufficiency of his rations.
The Secretary said Little Wound had made a good argument in favor of his proposition. The hunts in Nebraska lead to robbery and murder, when in reality this hunting privilege is worth nothing. The government is ready, however, to give $25,000 for it and it is not necessary to waste any more words about it. The chiefs can determine it now or go to their quarters and think it over.
Mr. Hinman here explained the subject to the chiefs, and a long private consultation among the sachems followed.
Little Wound finally arose and said: "If you give me to understand I am not to cross over the North Platte then I must have $40,000 for one hundred years." (How! How! How! by the chiefs, and laughter among the pale faces.)
Secretary.--"Well, tell them that if his people are of the same mind we might as well stop talking at once."
Mr. Hinman had another consultation with the chiefs.
Spotted Tail, Arose and Said:
"My friend, $10,000 of that $25,000 belongs to my people, and I say for my people that we will accept it. (How! How!) I want you to move the northern Nebraska line further south. I want you to send us four commissioners to talk with us about the matter. This is all I have to say to day. Tomorrow I want to talk about my agent and other things in regard to the agency."
The Secretary explained, through Mr. Hinman, that he had no power to change the boundaries of Nebraska.
Red Cloud arose and said he was willing to take his share of the $25,000. He explained his boundaries, and said Spotted Tail claimed more territory than he was entitled to.
The Secretary Said he would have a paper drawn up allowing the Sioux to occupy the country as far south as "The Divide," fifteen miles south of the Nialnana [sic] [Niobrara?] River, and they could sign it now or take it to their council room. He read the paper which had been drawn up, which is an agreement on the part of the chiefs and head men of the Sioux to give up their hunting privileges in Nebraska, in consideration of the sum of $25,000.
Spotted Tail Talks Business.
Spotted Tail: "When I do business with the Great Father I sign papers after I have received the price promised. If I sign now I expect to get the $25,000 this afternoon. (How! How! How!) If I sign a paper now and some one buys presents I am afraid they will be very small when they reach me. (Laughter among the whites and loud "How's" among the chiefs.) I would rather sign in my own country and see what was bought for me."
The Secretary said he would put the money in the hands of one of Spotted Tail's friends--Bishop Hare, for instance--and he could purchase presents for him, but the money must be drawn before July 1.
Spotted Tail demurred and another long consultation was held among the chiefs.
Mr. Hinman finally said they were all willing to sign if they could take the money home with them to divide among their people.
The Secretary explained that this could not be done under the law.
Spotted Tail--"There seems to be some trouble about the money. When it is offered and I accept it I find I can't get it. I would like to see the President, and if he says I can't have it, all right."
The Secretary read the law in regard to purchasing presents, when Spotted Tail, after a pause said:--"Well, I would like to see my Great Father before I sign. If he says I can't have the money I will sign the paper and say no more."
The Secretary said "all right," and the chiefs departed.
June 1, 1875: Critic-Record: [Dakota]
The Indians Still Dissatisfied.--
The Indian delegation now in the city, had another interview with the Secretary of the interior to-day, at which it was proposed by the government to pay them $25,000 in the consideration of the relinquishment of their hunting grounds, they being allowed to retain a portion of the Black Hills for agricultural purposes alone. They, however, refused to sign the agreement unless they were at first paid the money, and upon the Secretary reading to them the law governing the matter, and informing them that he could not go beyond that, they immediately arose and left in a body with the expressed determination of seeing the president, whom they expect to adjust the matter to their satisfaction. Among other propositions made by them was one for the appointment of three commissioners on the part of the Government to act with three of their own selection for the permanent settlement of all difficulties between them and the Government.
June 1, 1875: Daily Tribune: [Dakota]
Extracts HJV delegation file 1875:
Spotted Tail and American Horse are upset with Red Cloud's vacillation re beef issue at Pine Ridge and hope to have council where they can do the talking.
"It is claimed that Tod Randall, who interpreted for Red Cloud on Friday last, does not understand the Sioux language well enough to express his ideas plainly, and that R. C. was confused thereby, although the Indians selected him for that occasion."
June 1, 1875: New York Daily Tribune: [Dakota]
Extract HJV delegation file 1875:
Many of the Sioux Indians attended church Sunday morning, most went to Trinity Church [Wash., D.C.], but Spotted Tail went to Dr. Newman's church, where he hoped to meet the President and ask for a hearing. After the service Spotted Tail and his interpreter did meet the President with Dr. Newman in the church lecture-room, but did not have an opportunity to make the request.
June 2, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Indian Council To-Day. Another Talk with the President Without Result.
The Sioux chiefs met their Great Father, the President, and Secretary Delano, Assistant Secretary Cowen, and commissioner Smith at the Interior department, at ten o'clock this morning. The President was at the department promptly on time, while the sachems were, as usual, some minutes late. There were present at the council, besides those names, only Bishop Kane, the Rev. Mr. Hinman and other interpreters, and the official stenographers of the department, the Secretary having given positive orders to the doorkeepers not to admit any other persons, not even representatives of the press. A number of the latter were present, but all were denied admission by order of the Secretary, it being understood that the latter would furnish reports of the council, made by his official stenographer, to all correspondents and reporters who would promise to print it entire.
The Furnished Report.
The following is an abstract of the proceedings of the council as furnished by representatives of the press by Commissioner Smith:
The President began by explaining the agreement that had been drawn wherein they relinquish the right to hunt in Nebraska or Kansas, and reserve the right to occupy the country in Nebraska north of the Niabrara river--a tract of country outside of their reservation, but very valuable to them as containing the only agricultural lands open to them. All of Nebraska north of the North Platte in Nebraska is what is considered unceded Indian country. They give up a portion of this and reserve for themselves for permanent occupation of the country north of the Niabrara where the Red Cloud and Spotted Tail agencies are now located. He explained to them that the appropriation of $25,000 was for the purchase of presents, made so by Congress, whose laws he could not alter. He offered to receive from the chiefs the nomination of a special commissioner to take the money and purchase the presents, and if he was a proper person he would turn over the money to him. The President also referred again to his deep interest in the future of the Indians, especially of the Sioux, and his desire to see them well provided for during his term of office, and asked them once more when they reached home to consider among themselves the question of going to the Indian territory.
Spotted Tail replied for the Sioux that the government was asking too much of them; that there was a certain part of Nebraska, north of North Platte river, which they had never ceeded, and which they considered as belonging to them, and they wanted to know when they were ever to get paid for it. The explanation was made to him that a certain part of the country was unceeded country, but was not considered as belonging to the Sioux. It was undecided as to whom it does belong; that the portion of the country which they relinquish is between the North Platte and Niabrara rivers; that the rest of the country, north of the North Platte in Nebraska, will be retained by them, and was so much added to their permanent reservation.
Spotted Tail then made further objections to signing any agreement here, urging that he must go home and take the President's words to his people, and if they considered it all right they would sign the paper there and send word as to what purchases should be made for them.
It was again explained to him that there was not time to do that; that the appropriation lapsed on the 30th instant, and if the purchases were not made by that time the money would be out of the control of the President.
Spotted Tail shrewdly suggested that they guard against that by taking it out of the Treasury now and have it held by some person for them.
It was further explained to him that it would be impossible to take it out until the agreement ws signed by the Indians. Considerable discussion followed until 11:30 o'clock, when the President was obliged to leave. After he retired Red Cloud made a speech reiterating the position he has always maintained, that when he signed the first treaty, in 1868, it was for thirty-five years of feeding as well as clothing, and that all this talk about reducing him down to five years was a cheat upon him.
Secretary Delano represented the President's earnest desire for their good, and asked them to take this matter into serious consideration and settle it now. The chiefs held a brief consultation among themselves, and left without signing the paper, to return to their quarters and think over the matter.
June 3, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Failure of the Sioux Negotiations. The Indians Going Home To-Morrow.
The Sioux chiefs--Red Cloud and Co.--were in long and earnest council at the Tremont House last evening in regard to signing away their hunting privilege in Nebraska for $25,000, and finally reached the unanimous conclusion that they would under no circumstances sign until they have consulted the wishes of their people. They also determined that they had seen enough of civilization as represented by Washington society, and would leave to-morrow for their home in Dakota, after perhaps a brief final interview with Secretary Delano and Commissioner Smith, simply to say "Good-by." The agents of the Indians notified the department this morning of the conclusion of the chiefs, and the Indians will be permitted to go home to-morrow.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs, after learning of the intention of the chiefs, visited them at the Tremont House, when the following conservation was had:
Commissioner.--I have learned from Dr. Daniels this morning that you are not prepared to accept the advice that the President gave you yesterday, but desire still to carry out your wish to go home before you take any action at all. The Secretary desires me to say that he is very sorry that you are not willing to accept the advice of the best friend you ever had, and he hopes that you will not have occasion hereafter to be sorry yourselves; and I come now to make to you another proposition. That is, that you take this agreement which has been drawn up with you, and talk among yourselves there; one copy at the Spotted Tail and one at the Red Cloud agency; and that you sign it there and send it back to me as soon as you can. If you sign it there, you will also at the same time signify what presents you desire to have bought with the money, and it is supposed that if you go home as soon as you can, and get your council together immediately, and have short talk, and come to a decision, and your agent comes over to Laramie and telegraphs me, that the presents can be bought before the 13th of June. As your friend, I am bound to tell you that you run some risk about it, but that risk you take yourselves in not signing that paper. In the first place you ought not to be afraid to sign anything that your Great Father asks you to sign. He is able to look at the two sides of a thing. He can see what is coming to you, from yourselves, from the necessities you are getting to be in, from the passing away of game. You can see that to a certain extent; but he can also see what is going to come to you, from the pressure of white men all around you, a great deal better than you can. He sees that it is not possible for him to hold all that country of the North Platte in Nebraska, which none of you use, neither you or the white man, as neutral country between the two. He sees that these white men who desire to go there, are the men who send Congressmen to Washington to make laws. He knows that it [sic] should desire and endeavor to keep that fine country vacant forever. He cannot do it because the Congressmen would pass laws taking it from you anyhow. He told you that yesterday, when he said that the lands cannot be kept for mere settlement. They must be kept for use. You are asked to give up that which your [sic] were told yesterday was very little use to you. The buffalo that you can now get down on the Republican fork, are not worth going down after. When a man goes out to get something to eat, and cannot find enough to last him back on his return then he had better not go any more. The other privilege which you are asked to surrender, is only the privilege of keeping a country belonging to nobody. It does not belong to you for occupation at all. You are asked to surrender your part of that agreement not to have the country occupied, but there is a certain part of the country to which you have no title whatever, except this agreement that nobody shall have it, that you need. That is the part north of the Nibrara river and between the Niobrara river and that line of stakes which you have seen running through your villages, and which troubled you so much; and that is exactly what this agreement gives to you. You give up this title, which is of no value to you, to the country between the North Platte and the Niobrara river, and in return for it you get the right to occupy and live in this country north of the Niobrara and south of the Nebraska line--the very country that you are living in now and that you desire so much. I know how you feel about it, that that Nebraska line was a mistake; that you did not understand it so; whether it was a mistake or not, cannot be helped now. I mean neither the President nor the Secretary has any power to help it. It is a law of Congress that they cannot change. But this agreement gives it back to you for your use and occupation. You certainly will make a great mistake, the great mistake of your life, if you do not avail yourselves of the opportunity to get yourselves such a home as you need. I wish that you could see that it is too important to have any risk about it, and that you are doing what is proper by signing this agreement that is before you, but this I will not urge. You are grown up men, and you ought to know by this time what a responsibility is on you. I came down here to say this to you, in order to save another council at the Department of the Interior. You can act on this among yourselves, and when you get ready for an answer, we will hear you up there.
Spotted Tail.--I wish to say a few words to you. In the things you have said to me, your opinion is not at all different from mime; and my mind does not run contrary to anything you have said. You have made me very happy by one thing you have said; you have said that the Nebraska line, which is running through my village, is to be removed. That is my country, and if it is removed, I will be very glad. I have already said that I will receive this money for the purpose of giving up the right to hunt Buffalo, although it is very little. I told you that I would receive this money, and that I wished to consider the matter, and that I wished you to hold it here. I said this because I wished to go back immediately to my people, and induce them to finish it up at once. I say this, because if I sign a paper here by myself, people about me may dispute over it, and there may be blood shed over this little matter; and if I take it home and sign it before all the people, the people will be glad. I wish you to appoint three men and I will appoint three men to go out at once. I want this business to be attended to immediately; and if they can get there as soon as we do, so much the better.
Red Cloud.--This is my opinion and I wish to tell it to you. In regard to this money for giving up the right to hunt I have not said anything against it. You see these young men about me here. They are good young men, but at home there are a great many more of the same kind that surround me there. The reason I wished to postpone the decision as to what to take till I get home, is that I think my young men may wish to purchase some things that will not be consumed in a few years, and may want to tell me what things when I get home. I want you to take care of the money here, and I will push the matter there when I get home. We have told you that we want three commissioners to go home with us. I will appoint two now. Todd Randall and Mr. Collins. The third I will determine during the day, and will tell you before night. Whatever commissioners are to go back, I would like to have them in a hurry to go there.
Commissioner.--I shall be able to keep your money just twenty-seven days more. If the presents are not bought within that time, then I will have no control over your money. So you can see how little time you have to go on this long journey and get your people together and get word back to me, and have the purchases made. And it seems to me that it will not do for you to have this other matter about the commissioners mixed up with this. The question as to who shall be the commissioners is decided, of course, by the President, and you appoint your own commissioner to represent the Indians. You have your side to represent, and of course will have your own men who will represent it for yourselves; and he will have his side and will have his own men. But it is not impossible for you to name one man that you would like to have him appoint to represent him, and that he may consider your wishes; but that must not be a man who lives among you, because otherwise he would represent you and not the President. Since you have been here I have heard none of your own men talk. Have they nothing to say? They have come a long distance.
Red Cloud.--When I came here before and had councils the people who came with me also counciled with the government; when we got home that did not please the people there; so we have decided to have Spotted Tail and myself talk. We council all day, and they say to us what they want to, and then we report it to you.
June 4, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux Still Refuse to Sign. Another Conference To-Day.
The Sioux delegation had another conference with Secretary Delano and Commissioner Smith at the Interior department to-day. Spotted Tail made the first speech, saying that he had but one thing to say, and that was that the men who had accompanied them to Washington at their own expense (referring to Todd Randall, James Fitzsimmons, Leon Palladay and other traders) should be paid by the Great Father for their very valuable services. That was all he had to say.
The bills referred to were presented to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Randall's and Fitzsimmons' are for $273 each, and Palladay's $453, which includes charges for 35 days interpreting, when the fact is he interpreted but three days, when he was discharged "for cause."
The Secretary said all these bills would be referred to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs for investigation, and went on to again explain the position of the government in regard to the hunting privilege in Nebraska. He said that as an additional inducement for them to sign the paper in which they relinquish this privilege, he would pledge the Interior Department and the President to use their best efforts to induce Congress to double the appropriation of $25,000. He also referred again to the Black Hills country and the country in Wyoming occupied by Sioux. He said he would appoint a commission to go out to the Sioux country and treat with them in reference to the Black Hills and the Big Horn mountain country in Wyoming.
The Commissioner procured a map and gave them a lesson in geography, illustrating the scale and showing them what portion of their country the government desired them to relinquish.
Spotted Tail seemed unusually animated, and made a pithy speech, saying that as he and the Secretary prayed to the same Great Spirit it was very singular that they should differ so much. The Indians own the country the Great Spirit gave them, and they never try to steal the country of any one else; while the whites, who have a big country, still want to steal what little the Indians have. He closed by saying that it was not worth while to discuss the subject of selling the Black Hills, as their (the Indians') price price [sic] would be too large.
Red Cloud put in as usual his claim for compensation for horses stolen from them by the whites, and repeated Spotted Tail's request that the traders accompanying them should be reimbursed. The delegation leave to-morrow. They will probably have a final talk with Commissioner Smith to-night or to-morrow morning.
N.B.--Representatives of the press were admitted to the council to-day.
June 4, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux Indians have peculiar notions about farming, and what they know about it could be compressed into a very diminutive volume. It is related by one of the parties accompanying the chiefs now in Washington, to show the difficulty of inducing them to live like the whites, that last year one of the Sioux concluded to become a real farmer after the manner of the pale faces. With this intent he pre-empted a spot about as large as an ordinary room beside a small stream, inclosed it with a rude brush fence, and digging it up planted it all to pumpkins. The seed soon took root, and in a few weeks his "farm" was covered with the running vines. Delighted with the success of his experiment he frequently brought other Indians to inspect his work, but strange to say all of them shook their heads suspiciously and went away. The Indian farmer's operations at last excited so much comment that a council of the Indians on the subject was held and a committee appointed to wait on the farmer and tell him that he must abandon his farm at once, as the earth was not made by the Great Spirit to be hacked and vexed with iron implements. Of course this command had to be obeyed, and the enterprising red skin relapsed into an unadulterated Indian once more.
June 5, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
[NOTE: The Critic Record of June 5 quotes most of the same text as below, but also has additional quotes including not paying for the move to the Washington House.]
The Last Indian Council. Red Cloud's Delegation Interview With Commissioner Smith--The Entire Delegation To Leave This Evening.
The Sioux Indians had their pictures taken in the court yard of the Patent Office yesterday for the New York Graphic. [Is this LOC 034781.00 by M.E. Mann? Red Cloud is included and was cropped in from port. taken w/ Blackmore! See also LC Lot 12671] Red Cloud declined to join the group, saying that they could have his picture by paying him $25 for it. Afterwards some of the prominent chiefs, with Bishop Hare, Major Bingham, Major Howard and Mr. Hinman were taken in a group by themselves.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs paid the delegation a visit yesterday afternoon simply to bid them good-by. In the evening Bishop Hare held a protracted council with them, in which he urged upon them the imperative necessity of acceding to the demands of the government. He told them that if the present expedition under the guidance of Gen. Custer should prove successful in their search for precious minerals, they would be forced to give up their title to the Black Hills, and that now was the time for them to secure good and favorable terms from the government.
The Last Big Talk.
The following is the official account of the proceedings at the final council between Indian Commissioner Smith, on the part of the Government, and the delegation of Sioux from the Red Cloud agency, held in the Commissioner's office this morning:
Commissioner.--I understand that some of the young men want to speak this morning, and I would be glad to hear anything they have to say.
Red Cloud.--My friend, we are going home to-day, and these young men you see here want to shake hands with you and bid you good bye. We came also to ask about something we hve not heard about. I would like to ask about the pay for those who came with me, the inter-preters, and all the Indians.
Commissioner.--There are some things to be said about those men who have come along that I would rather not be obliged to say to you. They have not come by the wish of anybody but themselves, so far as I know, and they have been sources of mischief and trouble ever since they came here. They got you to insist on going to the Washington House, and they got some of you to go there, after I had told you that it was not a proper place for you. They have led you into bad practices since you have been here. They have taken you, at night into bad places, and now they have the impudence to come and ask me to pay them for that sort of service, and I leave it to you to judge whether I had better do it or not. That is all that is to be said on that subject. I have told your agent to spend for you in getting such presents as you want twenty-five dollars apiece. This is in addition to what you have already received, in suits of clothes and every other thing that your agent has bought for you. I wish I could make it more; and do for you what you ask in that respect, and to furnish each of you a horse with saddle and equipments, but that I am not able to do, because I have not the money to make the purchases.
Little Wound.--You tell the truth when you say that you did not invite the interpreters to come along with the Indians. We have heard that before, but if we had come with only the three interpreters belonging to our delegation, these three interpreters would dispute as to what we said. We invited these three to come, in order to be witnesses on our return as to what was done. As for myself, I am not influenced by these men. They wanted to come along with us, and now they say we have deceived them, and between the two they are falling to the ground. They blame us for not getting paid. We came here at the invitation of the President, and we expected to go home with horses, equipments and guns, so that our people would receive us gladly; if we go home without anything of the kind, when we arrive there the people will all laugh at us.
Commissioner.--I would not give you guns if I could. If I could give you horses and saddles I would, but I have no power about it; I cannot do it, and so it is not worth while for me to encourage you in any way to expect it. About those men that you speak of as interpreters: In the first place, they are not interpreters at all; the best of them, Todd Randall, when he came to interpret for Red Cloud, broke down, and Red Cloud had to get some one else. Palliday, the only one who did belong to you as an interpreter, was employed by me. He could interpret; he is a good interpreter, but he likes whisky so well that he broke down; whisky broke him down. He got so drunk that I could not see him for several days. I shall pay him for what he did and send him home. Randall will also be paid; he came at my request. But those other men who have deceived you and have kept you from doing your duty, and have led you into bad houses, have no claim for anything; and they may be thankful that they are not driven out of the country. How are you to trust these men, when they go home, to tell what was done here; men that will do all they can to defeat the best interests of the tribe and bring you into disgrace in Washington? What do you want of them when you get home? Now, this is a plain talk to you, but I may just as well talk of things as they are, rather than we should deceive one another. Now I want to say a word to Sitting Bull. I have heard with great pleasure of your conduct and of the conduct of one or two others of the Red Cloud agency. I have heard from your agent, and from the military officers at the agency, of the great service you have rendered the government. You have proved yourself to be a very brave and true man--a friend to your own people, and a friend to the whites. Your good conduct has been reported to the President, and I am instructed by him to give you a token of his regard in recognition of your good services.
"Little Wound.--My friend, I want to speak to you about another matter. These things I have heard to-day do not please me; but I shall let it go by, and I want to say a few words to you. When I came here, you gave me some advice about the proper way when I went buffalo hunting, and I have always done that way, as you instructed me. The man that is interpreting for me brought me the news that you wished to have me sell the hunting privilege. I told him that it would be better to wait a few years; but you have given me word, and I will take it back to my people to let them decide. There are a great many buffalo left in that country. I have told my agent that those young men who left the agency to go hunting did not do so, because they wanted to disobey the Great Father, but they wanted to sell the robes when there was no issue. When I go home I shall tell my people what you have said about hunting buffalo, and I think they will say yes; but I think you ought to give more money to us for our women and children. That is all I have to say, and I wish you to consider these things.
Commissioner.--I have always heard well of Little Wound when he went on his hunting expeditions. The officers and soldiers have always reported that you were disposed to do right; but you know very well that you scarcely ever go hunting that something does not occur which makes trouble between your people and the whites; and every year this grows more and more likely to occur; and I am glad to hear you say that you will give up this right that is very dear to you. I will present your case to the Secretary of the Interior, and through him to the President and then to Congress, asking that Congress will give the additional sum of money which the Secretary promised yesterday to try to get. But I hope that you will be able to distinguish between this promise that we will try to get the money and the promise that we will give you the money--these are two different things.
Sitting Bull.--I had said that I would go home without, but I have concluded to say a few words to you. The young men also have their opinion about matters which are spoken of here, as well as the chiefs; and I have brought these young men here, so that they may consider whatever questions come up. I have now been here more than ten days, and have listened to all that has been said on both sides. Although I have said nothing, I have taken into my ears everything that has been said. I thought I would go away without saying anything to you, but I am going to say a few words before I go. These two men, who did our business for us, do not tell you their own opinions, but of all the people, and they tell you the opinion of our delegation. You have told them since they have been here of the wish of the President; also, the words of the Secretary of the Interior and yourself. You have heard one of the chiefs say that he would agree to it, and I am of the same opinion; and when I go home I will see my people and get them to agree to it. When the chiefs consider anything that is for the good and happiness of their people in the future, they try to do the best thing they can. I should have been very glad to have taken the news home that we had accomplished our business here. The people that are left at home, and the chiefs, are waiting to hear what their chiefs have done in Washington; and when I go home I think they will give you an answer. They will listen to everything that has been proposed here, and I think they will assent. I would like to have them say yes. I thought when I came here with this delegation that the chiefs would accomplish something here; but as it is, we will go back and consider with our people. When I go out of the building to-day I would like the agent to take me straight home without stopping at any other place.
The Commissioner then made reference to the traders accompanying them, and said:--You will find, now and then, men living among you, of that sort that you can trust; but as a general thing you will find them only mischief makers. When you find one disposed to be a mischief maker, ready to come between you and your agent, and between you and your Great Father, you may be pretty sure he is your worst enemy, and the less you submit your affairs to him, or pay any attention to what he says, the better it will be for you. I am very glad to have met you here, and very glad to have seen you this morning. I hope you will have a pleasant journey home, and that when you report to your people what the Great Father wants done about the hunting privileges, about Wyoming, and the Black Hills, that they will see that he is your Good Father, and wants to do the best thing for them.
Red Cloud.--Six of my young men have remained four days at the Washington House, and one all the while. Wherever white men eat they always expect to pay for it; the bills there will amount to less than $100. When I return home I would like to leave the railroad at Sidney; it is much nearer home than Cheyenne; and even if we walk home, we will make better time. We can get there at night, and walk home in the night.
Commissioner.--I will leave that matter to Dr. Daniels. He is going with you, and whatever way he thinks quickest and best he will do.
Red Cloud.--That is the wish of all my people. That is the way we go buffalo hunting.
Commissioner.--I have no objection to your leaving the railroad at Sidney, but will leave it to Dr. Daniels. Now about paying for the board of those Indians who have preferred quarters at the Washington House. The proprietor of that house knew very well that I did not want you to go there, and he knew very well why I did not want you to go there. Yet he has tried from the day you came to get you there. I do not think he will have the face, and I give him credit for a great deal of cheek--but I do not think he will have the face to present me any bill for the board of Indians this year; and he has got you to do it, because he is ashamed to present it himself.
Red Cloud.--He brought a bill to take to you. Showed it to Dr. Daniels, who said the name was not attached to it, and that he must take it back. I am not a relative of that man you speak of; I have never spoken any evil against any white man. I think you are prejudiced against that man.
Commissioner.--Well I am, slightly.
"Face" then spoke to Red Cloud as follows: I told you just how that matter would be, when we commenced it; we came here with divided councils; we have accomplished nothing; and we have no one to blame but ourselves. The Red Cloud agent is a good man; he is a brave, true man; we tried to break him down, but we could not. He is the man we ought to take back with us and keep. We have tried him. I am a young man and I have suffered a great deal in my efforts to protect the agency.
The Indians leave for home this evening, accompanied by the agents and interpreters; Spotted Tail and Red Cloud's delegations go direct to their homes, but Lone Horn's band will go via New York.
June 5, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
It may be predicted with tolerable certainty that before many moons are past, our troops and the Sioux will be exchanging compliments through he medium of rifles. Red Cloud and Spotted Tail both confess that their people are stubborn, and declined to sign the papers relinquishing their privilege to hunt in Nebraska through fear of their young men. "Suppose," said one of them, "we should go home and tell our people we had signed a paper giving away our rights and we carried nothing in our hands for it? We are afraid of our people and I dare not do it." If these chieftains exercise so little control over their young men it is plain to see how easy it would be for the latter to plunge the entire Sioux nation into a war with the whites.
June 5, 1875: Critic-Record: [Dakota]
The Last Indian Council.
The Commissioner Talks to the Young Bloods.
This morning the Sioux Indians, before leaving for their homes, had an interview with the Commissioner in his office at the Interior Department, when some of the younger Indians took occasion to unbosom themselves. The following conversation was had: [almost word-for-word the same transcription as that reported in June 5, 1875 Evening Star, with the exception of the following:]
[After Sitting Bull's speech]
Commissioner. I want to speak to those young men about those half Indian men and half white men. And half white men. I am sorry they are white at all who live among you. You will find now and then men living among you of that sort you can trust; but as a general thing you will find them only mischief makers.
[Then after Red Cloud's speech about $100:]
Commissioner. About paying for the board of those Indians who have preferred quarters at the Washington House. The proprietor of that house knew very well that I did not want to go there, and he knew very well why i did not want you to go there. Yet he has tried from the day you came, to get you there. Some of you he has actually forced to go' and others of you who did go there, and some of you who remained at the Tremont, he has taken out himself at midnight, to some of the worst places in this city.
I do not think he will have the face, and I give him credit for a great deal of cheek; but I do not think he will have the fact to present me any bill for the board of Indians this year, and he has got you to do it because he was ashamed to present it himself.
The Indians here shook hands with the Commissioner, and expressed their determination to leave the city this evening.
June 7, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Departure of the Sioux Delegation.
Tall Mandan Says Red Indians Fare Better than Good ones.
All of the Sioux Indian delegation left for their home in Dakota Saturday evening [June 5]. On Saturday afternoon, at three o'clock, the Cheyenne Sioux. Lone Horn, chief, had a parting interview with Commissioner Smith, and complained of the failure of the government to do anything for them. The Commissioner complimented them on their excellent behavior generally, and they retorted by saying that the Indians that did the best got treated the worst by the government, and Tall Mandan said if had [sic] learned to lie like Spotted Tail and Red Cloud he would have fared better from the government. Lone Horn pointed to Mrs. Kelley, who was sitting in the room, saying: "That lady that sits over there our people did a wrong to that we can never pay her for. If you can pay for us I wish you would." Mrs. Kelly's husband and little daughter were killed by the Sioux and herself taken captive a few years ago while crossing the plains. The delegation requested the Commissioner to appoint Rev. S. D. Hinman and Rev. J. P Newman as commissioners to go out and aid in negotiating the Black Hills treaty, and the commissioner said they were good men and he would lay their names before the President. On Saturday the President presented Sitting Bull with a very fine rifle, nicely mounted and enclosed in a leather case. On the brass mountings surrounding the lock is engraved, "Sitting Bull from the President, for bravery and friendship."
June 10, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Rev. Mr. Hinman, the missionary among the Sioux, who recently acted as interpreter for the Red Cloud and Spotted Tail delegations, and whose appointments as one of the commissioners to negotiate with the Indians was requested by the chiefs named, will be appointed in accordance with their wish. It is not probable, however, that the Rev. J. P. Newman, whose appointment to a similar office was asked for by the chiefs, will be appointed, owing to his inexperience in dealing with the Indians.
June 12, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
The Sioux Commission.--The following are the gentlemen who have thus far been appointed on the commission to visit the Sioux, and who have accepted the positions tendered:--Hon. Wm. B. Allison, Gen. Terry, (commanding the federal forces in Dacotah,) Hon. Abram Comingo, (ex-member of Congress,) Bishop Havena, (of Georgia,) Rev. S. D. Hinman, and Gen. Frank W. Palmer, (ex-M.C., and managing editor of the Chicago Inter-Ocean) It has not yet been decided whether the commission shall be limited to six members or not, and it is possible that two or three more may be appointed.
June 12, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Going Home In Style.--When the Indian chiefs left here the last request made by them was that they should be furnished with horses to ride home. The Commissioner of Indian affairs did not think it would be proper or expedient to gratify them. But yesterday orders were telegraphed to the Indian agent at Omaha to purchase horses and equipments, to be handed over to the chiefs on their arrival at Cheyenne, to make the rest of their journey home. This concession, it is expected, will perhaps have some effect in furthering the negotiations for the acquisition of the Black Hills country.
June 17, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Almost Home.--The Commissioner of Indian Affairs is in receipt of information that the Sioux Indian delegation, recently in this city, reached Cheyenne on Sunday last, and proceeded on horseback to their stamping grounds, some 200 miles distant.
June 19, 1875: Harper's Weekly: [Dakota]
Cover image shows Indian talking to Grant. Caption unclear in copy. Probably story continues inside.
June 26, 1875: Evening Star: [Dakota]
Another Sioux commission.--The Secretary of the Interior has appointed, on the recommendation of General Fiske, president of the board of Indian commissioners, ex-Governor Bullock, of Massachusetts; ex-governor Fletcher, of Missouri, and Hon. Geo. W. Lane, president of the New York Chamber of Commerce, a commission to visit the Red Cloud agency and investigate the management of its affairs for the past year. The instructions of the committee will include an inquiry into the informal charges made by Professor Marsh.
1875 [n.d. recorded]: Washington Tribune: [Dakota]
Extracts from HJV delegation file 1875:
Preliminary meeting with CIA
Spotted Tail: "There was one friend he had met here [before] whom he liked very much. He wanted to go there today."
CIA: "Sometimes it was well to make new friends. He thought when they had tried it they would like the Tremont as well as the Washington House. He had made all his arrangements for their stay in Washington, and could not now change them."
1875 [n.d. recorded]: Washington Tribune: [Dakota]
Extracts HJV delegation file 1875:
Meeting between delegation and CIA. 1:30 p.m., were received in the waiting room of the Sec. Int. in presence of a large number of spectators including many ladies. Indians were seated and each introduced to the CIA. Spotted Tail said in very good English: "How art thee?" Indians were gotten up on most gorgeous style, "without the least regard to the cost of feathers, beads, and paint. The single female who accompanied Red Cloud's band was not behind her male companions, and somewhat in advance of the custom of the white women, having a large daub of vermillion on either cheek about the size of a small tea saucer."
1875 [n.d. reorded]: Washington Tribune: [Dakota]
Extracts HJV delegation file 1875:
Preliminary meeting with CIA.
"You have with you three or four interpreters. I have sent for another man whom most of you know [Hinman], who will be here to-morrow, so that we will make no mistake in what we say to one another. It is not an easy matter for two persons to talk together when they do not understand each other's language. I want no mistake made. I want those interpreters to keep their ears open, and if they do not exactly understand, say so on the spot."....
Spotted Tail: "...wanted to say they had brought their own interpreters at their own expense, and he wanted them to be in the council with the Great Father and hear what was said."
CIA: "...the interpreters referred to could come in whenever they liked."
Oct. 6, 1875: Evening Star: [Pueblo: San Juan]
Arrival of Another Indian Delegation.
A delegation of Pueblo Indians from the Pueblo of San Juan, New Mexico, arrived in town this morning and called upon the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. They were accompanied by Mr. Joseph Torrens, of this city, who stated that as he spoke Spanish, which language the Indians understood he had been requested by the proprietor of the Washington House, where they are quartered, to act as their interpreter. He said they represented that they had paid their way here, but were in need and called for aid. They had a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs from Indian Agent Thomas, dated Santa Fe, April 26, 1875, introducing them and saying: 'They go to Washington at their own expense to see the President, Hon. Commissioner of Indian Affairs, the Secretary of the Interior and others. They make the trip with a view to combining business and pleasure. Their business I leave them to state. I respectfully recommend them to your kind consideration.' They also had a letter addressed to the President from the representative men of their tribe, praying that the Great Father would permit the Mexicans from raiding on them and dispossessing them of their lands. The names of the Indians are Antonio Hosea Tancio, Antonio Stellato, and Juan Hossea Ceillo. They were dressed in aboriginal costume, with blankets, buckskin leggings, &c., and the two younger carried silver-headed ebony canes, one bearing the inscription: 'A. Lincoln, President U.S. a [sic] Taos, 1863.' and the other; 'A. Lincoln, President U. S., a [sic] San Juan. 1863.' Which they claimed were presented to them by President Lincoln. The other, an old man with gray hair, carried a bow and arrow. These Indians are among the few survivors of the famous Aztec race of Mexico. In reply to questions by the Commissioner they said their fare to Washington cost them $225, which they were several months begging in New Mexico. They were twelve days en route. The Commissioner said he supposed he must take care of them temporarily, but that they must take up their quarters at the Tremont house, which they consented to do. They will have another interview with the Commissioner to-morrow.
Oct. 8, 1875: Alexandria Gazette: [Pueblo: [San Juan]]
A delegation of pueblo Indians, frm new Mexico, arrived at Washington yesterday, unaccompanied by any agent or interpreter. They can only speak a mixed Spanish. They brought a letter of introduction from the Indian Agent at New Mexico; also a petition, in Spanish, setting forth their grievances and the object of their visit. The great Father was out of town on a flying visit to Utah, &c.
Oct. 8, 1875: Evening Star: [Pueblo [San Juan]]
The Pueblo Indians now in this city will probably leave for their home in new Mexico some time to morrow. Each of them will be presented before their departure with a silver medal bearing a profile likeness of the President and valued at $12 or $13 and a quantity of blankets and clothing. The Commissioner today purchased tickets for them to Pueblo, Colorado, from which point they prefer to walk to their homes, near Santa Fe. He will also give them about $100 in money to pay their expenses en route to New Mexico.
Oct. 9, 1875: Evening Star: [Pueblo [San Juan]]
The Pueblo Indian Delegation called at the Indian office this morning, and Col. W. R. Irwin, acting chief clerk of the bureau, presented them with the silver medals mentioned in yesterday's Star and the blankets, shawls and shirts, purchased for them. They expressed their thanks for the presents, and said if not asking too much they would like some hats, and a fish seine thirty yards long and four yards wide. Their requests were com[plied with and they left highly gratified with the success of their mission. They were furnished with railroad tickets costing [$244.30?] and $55.50 in money. They will leave by way of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad this evening.
Nov. 12, 1875: Evening Star: [Warm Spring]
A Delegation of Warm Spring Indians, eleven in number, and including one squaw, arrived in the city yesterday, and quartered themselves at the Washington House. The Warm Spring Indians are those who, under Capt. Donald McKay, aided the federal troops in their siege against the Modocs a couple of years ago. They had an interview with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
Nov. 15, 1875: Evening Star: [Warm Spring]
The Warm Spring Indians now in town had another conference with the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at 3 o'clock this afternoon. They want the Commissioner to furnish them with transportation to their home in Oregon. In view of their services to the government in the Modoc campaign the Commissioner will probably accede to their request.
Nov. 15, 1875: Sun [Baltimore, Md.]: [Iroquois]
General Dispatches.
Proposed Immigration of Canadian Indians.
Washington, Oct. 14.--The Commissioner of Indian Affairs was waited upon this morning by a delegation of Iroquois Indians, residing on a tract of land six miles square, in the province of Quebec, Canada, who came to ask his permission for the tribe, which numbers 1,450, to settle with the Cherokees in the Indian Territory. The delegation, which consisted of Jos. Skye (Thaleroiote) and John Diome (Anasotako) were introduced by Col. Wm. P. Adair, the Cherokee delegate in Washington, who stated that his people were willing that the Iroquois, whom tradition says were really Cherokees who wandered away from their southern home a long time ago and settled in Canada, should come down and settle among them. The delegation presented a letter addressed to Hon. Wm. P. Ross, chief of the Cherokee nation, expressing the desire of their tribe to emigrate to this country, and saying that they hoped he would recommend that the Cherokee council give them the necessary permission. They further state that they own about 23,000 acres of land in Canada, worth from $13 to $20 per acre, and that the money they would receive from its sale would be applied to the payment of lands bought of the Cherokees. They also had a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, asking his kind offices in consummating the arrangement. The commissioner promised to communicate with the chief of the Cherokee nation, and would let them know the result. Inquiry developed the fact that these Indians are civilized; that they dress in the ordinary clothing worn by whites; have a school and church, and that they are all engaged in industrial pursuits. The chief, Mr. Skye, is a fine looking man, abouy fifty years of age. The delegation leaves for Canada to-night.
Nov. 17, 1875: Evening Star: [Mission]
Oligario, chief of the Mission Indians, of California, had a final interview with Indian Commissioner Smith to-day.
Nov. 19, 1875: Evening Star: [Mission; Warm Springs]
The Visiting Red Men.--Oligario, chief of the Mission Indians of California, with his delegation, called on Commissioner Smith, of the Indian bureau, this afternoon, to say "good by." They leave to-day. The party was furnished with tickets to their homes in California. The Warm Spring "Show" Indians leave for their homes in Oregon to-night. Senator Kelly, of Oregon, called upon Secretary Chandler to ask that their bill ($335) at the Washington House be paid, and was referred to Commissioner Smith, who says he will not pay it, and that if the proprietor of the house seizes their leggings, feathers and pigment in which their luggage consists, he will give each of them an entire suit of clothes. They have already been furnished with transportation to their homes.
Dec. 28, 1875: Critic-Record: [unid. [Cherokee]]
A delegation from the Indian Territory is in Washington endeavoring to have a Federal Court
established in the Territory, in accordance with the provisions of the treaty of 1866.
Dec. 29, 1875: Evening Star: [Cherokee]
Cherokees Trying to Have a Federal Court Established in Their Country.
The two Adairs and the two Rosses are here as a delegation from the Indian territory, seeking to have a federal court established there for the trial of offences. By the treaty of 1866 the Indians agreed that such a trbunal may be provided by Congress. At present offences in the territory are tried at Fort Smith, Ark., and instances are known where alleged criminals and witnesses have been obliged to travel [350?] miles to Fort Smith, some of them on horseback. At the preset term of the court there were 700 witnesses, and on the 1st of December 125 persons (Indians, whites and negroes) were in jail awaiting trial. Fifteen or twenty criminals had, at that date, been tried and sent to the penitentiary. The delegation urge that much money would be saved to the general government by established a court in the Indian country, and long and expensive journeys and loss of time avoided.