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diff --git a/7097-h/7097-h.htm b/7097-h/7097-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9c053bd --- /dev/null +++ b/7097-h/7097-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7082 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Autobiography of Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak, Or Black Hawk,, by Black Hawk + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Autobiography of Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak, +or Black Hawk, by Black Hawk + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Autobiography of Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak, or Black Hawk + +Author: Black Hawk + +Release Date: March 24, 2009 [EBook #7097] +Last Updated: February 4, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BLACK HAWK *** + + + + +Produced by Martin Schub, and David Widger, scanned pages provided courtesy +of the 1st-hand-history Foundation + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MA-KA-TAI-ME-SHE-KIA-KIAK, <br />OR BLACK HAWK, + </h1> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Black Hawk + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + AUTOBIOGRAPHY + OF + + MA-KA-TAI-ME-SHE-KIA-KIAK, + + OR + + BLACK HAWK, + + EMBRACING THE TRADITIONS OF HIS NATION, VARIOUS WARS + IN WHICH HE HAS BEEN ENGAGED, AND HIS ACCOUNT + OF THE CAUSE AND GENERAL HISTORY OF THE + BLACK HAWK WAR OF 1832, + + His Surrender, and Travels Through the United States. + + DICTATED BY HIMSELF. + + ANTOINE LECLAIR, U. S. INTERPRETER. + J.B. PATTERSON, EDITOR AND AMANUENSIS. + + ROCK ISLAND. ILLINOIS, 1833. + + ALSO + LIFE, DEATH AND BURIAL OF THE OLD CHIEF, TOGETHER WITH + A History of the Black Hawk War, + By J.B. PATTERSON, OQUAWKA, ILL, 1882. + </pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Copyrighted by J.B. PATTERSON, 1882. + + + </pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + AS A TOKEN OF HIGH REGARD, + I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME + TO MY FRIEND, + HON. BAILEY DAVENPORT, + OF ROCK ISLAND, ILL. + </pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> AFFIDAVIT. + </p> + <p> + DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS, SS. Be it remembered, that on this sixteenth day of + November, Anno Domini eighteen hundred and thirty-three, J.B. Patterson, + of said district, hath deposited in this office the title of a Book, the + title of which is in the words following, to wit: + </p> + <p> + "Life of Makataimeshekiakiak, or Black Hawk, embracing the Traditions of + his Nation—Indian Wars in which he has been engaged—Cause of + joining the British in their late War with America, and its History—Description + of the Rock River Village—Manners and Customs—Encroachments by + the Whites contrary to Treaty—Removal from his village in 1831. With + an account of the Cause and General History of the Late War, his Surrender + and Confinement at Jefferson Barracks, and Travels through the United + States. Dictated by himself." + </p> + <p> + J.B. Patterson, of Rock Island, Illinois, Editor and Proprietor. + </p> + <p> + The right whereof he claims as author, in conformity with an act of + Congress, entitled "An act to amend the several acts respecting + copyrights." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> W.H. BROWN, + Clerk of the District of Illinois +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + INDIAN AGENCY, ROCK ISLAND, October 16, 1833. I do hereby certify, that + Makataimeshekiakiak, or Black Hawk, did call upon me, on his return to his + people in August last, and expressed a great desire to have a History of + his Life written and published, in order (as he said) "that the people of + the United States, (among whom he had been traveling, and by whom he had + been treated with great respect, friendship and hospitality,) might know + the <i>cause</i> that had impelled him to acts as he had done, and the <i>principles</i> + by which he was governed." + </p> + <p> + In accordance with his request, I acted as Interpreter; and was + particularly cautious to understand distinctly the narrative of Black Hawk + throughout—and have examined the work carefully since its + completion, and have no hesitation in pronouncing it strictly correct, in + all its particulars. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Given under my hand, at the Sac and Fox agency, the day and date above +written. ANTOINE LE CLAIR, + U.S. Interpreter for the Sacs and Foxes. +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Contents + </h2> + <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto"> + <tr> + <td> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> ORIGINAL DEDICATION. </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <b>AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF BLACK HAWK.</b> </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> BLACK HAWK'S TOWER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> MR. GRAHAM'S SPEECH. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> STARTS FOR A NEW HOME. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> BLACK HAWK'S LAST VISIT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> BLACK HAWK'S REMOVAL TO THE DES MOINES + RIVER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> THE BLACK HAWK WAR. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> FOX MURDERERS WANTED. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_APPE"> APPENDIX. </a> + </p> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + ORIGINAL DEDICATION. + </h2> + <h3> + NE-KA-NA-WEN. + </h3> + <p> + MA-NE-SO-NO OKE-MAUT WAP-PI MAK-QUAI. WA-TA-SAI WE-YEU, + </p> + <p> + Ai nan-ni ta co-si-ya-quai, na-katch ai she-ke she-he-nack, hai-me-ka-ti + ya-quai ke-she-he-nack, ken-e-chawe-he-ke kai-pec-kien a-cob, ai-we-ne-she + we-he-yen; ne-wai-ta-sa-mak ke-kosh-pe kai-a-poi qui-wat. No-ta-wach-pai + pai-ke se-na-mon nan-ni-yoo, ai-ke-kai na-o-pen. Ni-me-to sai-ne-ni-wen, + ne-ta-to-ta ken ai mo-he-man ta-ta-que, ne-me-to-sai-ne-ne-wen. + </p> + <p> + Nin-a-kai-ka poi-pon-ni chi-cha-yen, kai-ka-ya ha-ma-we pa-she-to-he-yen. + Kai-na-ya kai-nen-ne-naip, he-nok ki-nok ke-cha-kai-ya pai-no-yen + ne-ket-te-sim-mak o-ke-te-wak ke-o-che, me-ka ti-ya-quois na-kach + mai-quoi, a-que-qui pa-che-qui ke-kan-ni ta-men-nin. Ke-to-ta we-yen, + a-que-ka-ni-co-te she-tai-hai-hai yen, nen, chai-cha-me-co kai-ke-me-se ai + we-ke ken-na-ta-mo-wat ken-ne-wa-ha-o ma-quo-qua-yeai-quoi. Ken-wen-na + ak-che-man wen-ni-ta-hai ke-men-ne to-ta-we-yeu, ke-kog-hai ke-ta-shi + ke-kai na-we-yen, he-na-cha wai-che-we to-mo-nan, ai pe-che-qua-chi mo-pen + ma-me-co, ma-che-we-ta na-mo-nan, ne-ya-we-nan qui-a-ha-wa pe-ta-kek, a + que-year tak-pa-she-qui a-to-ta-mo-wat, chi-ye-tuk he-ne cha-wai-chi + he-ni-nan ke-o-chi-ta mow-ta-swee-pai che-qua-que. + </p> + <p> + He-ni-cha-hai poi-kai-nen na-no-so-si-yen, ai o-sa-ke-we-yen, + ke-pe-me-kai-mi-kat hai-nen hac-yai, na-na-co-si-peu, nen-a-kai-ne co-ten + ne-co-ten ne-ka chi-a-quoi ne-me-cok me-to-sai ne-ne wak-kai + ne-we-yen-nen, kai-shai ma-ni-to-ke ka-to-me-nak ke-wa-sai he-co-wai + mi-a-me ka-chi pai-ko-tai-hear-pe kai-cee wa-wa-kia he-pe + ha-pe-nach-he-cha, na-na-ke-na-way ni-taain ai we-pa-he-wea to-to-na ca, + ke-to-ta-we-yeak, he-nok, mia-ni ai she-ke-ta ma-ke-si-yen, nen-a-kai + na-co-ten ne-ka-he-nen e-ta-quois, wa toi-na-ka che-ma-ke-keu na-ta-che + tai-hai-ken ai mo-co-man ye-we-yeu ke-to-towe. E-nok ma-ni-hai + she-ka-ta-ma ka-si-yen, wen-e-cha-hai nai-ne-mak, mai-ko-ten ke ka-cha + ma-men-na-tuk we-yowe, keu-ke-nok ai she-me ma-na-ni ta-men-ke-yowe. + MA-KA-TAI-ME-SHE-KIA-KIAK Ma-taus-we Ki-sis, 1833. + </p> + <p> + DEDICATION. [translation] + </p> + <p> + To Brigadier General H. Atkinson: + </p> + <p> + SIR—The changes of fortune and vicissitudes of war made you my + conqueror. When my last resources were exhausted, my warriors worn down + with long and toilsome marches, we yielded, and I became your prisoner. + </p> + <p> + The story of my life is told in the following pages: it is intimately + connected, and in some measure, identified, with a part of the history of + your own: I have, therefore, dedicated it to you. + </p> + <p> + The changes of many summers have brought old age upon me, and I can not + expect to survive many moons. Before I set out on my journey to the land + of my fathers, I have determined to give my motives and reasons for my + former hostilities to the whites, and to vindicate my character from + misrepresentation. The kindness I received from you whilst a prisoner of + war assures me that you will vouch for the facts contained in my + narrative, so far as they came under your observation. + </p> + <p> + I am now an obscure member of a nation that formerly honored and respected + my opinions. The pathway to glory is rough, and many gloomy hours obscure + it. May the Great Spirit shed light on yours, and that you may never + experience the humility that the power of the American government has + reduced me to, is the wish of him, who, in his native forests, was once as + proud and bold as yourself. + </p> + <p> + BLACK HAWK. + </p> + <p> + 10th Moon, 1833. + </p> + <p> + ADVERTISEMENT + </p> + <p> + It is presumed that no apology will be required for presenting to the + public the life of a Hero who has lately taken such high rank among the + distinguished individuals of America. In the following pages he will be + seen in the character of a Warrior, a Patriot and a State prisoner; in + every situation he is still the chief of his Band, asserting their rights + with dignity, firmness and courage. Several accounts of the late war + having been published, in which he thinks justice is not done to himself + or nation, he determined to make known to the world the injuries his + people have received from the whites, the causes which brought on the war + on the part of his nation, and a general history of it throughout the + campaign. In his opinion this is the only method now left him to rescue + his little Band, the remnant of those who fought bravely with him, from + the effects of the statements that have already gone forth. + </p> + <p> + The facts which he states, respecting the Treaty of 1804, in virtue of the + provisions of which the government claimed the country in dispute and + enforced its arguments with the sword, are worthy of attention. It + purported to cede tot he United States all of the country, including the + village and corn-fields of Black Hawk and his band, on the east side of + the Mississippi. Four individuals of the tribe, who were on a visit to St. + Louis to obtain the liberation of on of their people from prison, were + prevailed upon, says Black Hawk, to make this important treaty, without + the knowledge or authority of the tribes, or nation. + </p> + <p> + In treating with the Indians for their country, it has always been + customary to assemble the whole nation; because, as has been truly + suggested by the Secretary of War, the nature of the authority of the + chiefs of the tribe is such, that it is not often that they dare make a + treaty of much consequence, and we might add, never, when involving so + much magnitude as the one under consideration, without the presence of + their young men. A rule so reasonable and just ought never to be violated, + and the Indians might well question the right of the Government to + dispossess them, when such violation was made the basis of its right. + </p> + <p> + The Editor has written this work according to the dictation of Black Hawk, + through the United States Interpreter, at the Sac and Fox Agency of Rock + Island. He does not, therefore, consider himself responsible for any of + the facts, or views, contained in it, and leaves the Old Chief and his + story with the public, whilst he neither asks, nor expects, any fame for + his services as an amanuensis. + </p> + <p> + THE EDITOR. <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF BLACK HAWK. + </h2> + <p> + I was born at the Sac village, on Rock river, in the year 1767, and am now + in my 67th year. My great grandfather, Nanamakee, or Thunder, according to + the tradition given me by my father, Pyesa, was born in the vicinity of + Montreal, Canada, where the Great Spirit first placed the Sac nation, and + inspired him with a belief that, at the end of four years he should see a + <i>white man</i>, who would be to him a father. Consequently he blacked + his face, and eat but once a day, just as the sun was going down, for + three years, and continued dreaming, throughout all this time whenever he + slept. When the Great Spirit again appeared to him, and told him that, at + the end of one year more, he should meet his father, and directed him to + start seven days before its expiration, and take with him his two + brothers, Namah, or Sturgeon, and Paukahummawa, or Sunfish, and travel in + a direction to the left of sun-rising. After pursuing this course for five + days, he sent out his two brothers to listen if they could hear a noise, + and if so, to fasten some grass to the end of a pole, erect it, pointing + in the direction of the sound, and then return to him. + </p> + <p> + Early next morning they returned, and reported that they had heard sounds + which appeared near at hand, and that they had fulfilled his order. They + all then started for the place where the pole had been erected; when, on + reaching it, Nanamakee left his party and went alone to the place from + whence the sounds proceeded, and found, that the white man had arrived and + pitched his tent. When he came in sight, his father came out to meet him. + He took him by the hand and welcomed him into his tent. He told him that + he was the son of the King of France; that he had been dreaming for four + years; that the Great Spirit had directed him to come here, where he + should meet a nation of people who had never yet seen a white man; that + they should be his children and he should be their father; that he had + communicated these things to the King, his father, who laughed at him and + called him Mashena, but he insisted on coming here to meet his children + where the Great Spirit had directed him. The king had told him that he + would find neither land nor people; that this was an uninhabited region of + lakes and mountains, but, finding that he would have no peace without it, + he fitted out a napequa, manned it, and gave him charge of it, when he + immediately loaded it, set sail and had now landed on the very day that + the Great Spirit had told him in his dreams he should meet his children. + He had now met the man who should, in future, have charge of all the + nation. + </p> + <p> + He then presented him with a medal which he hung round his neck. Nanamakee + informed him of his dreaming, and told him that his two brothers remained + a little way behind. His father gave him a shirt, a blanket and a + handkerchief besides a variety of other presents, and told him to go and + bring his brethren. Having laid aside his buffalo robe and dressed himself + in his new dress, he started to meet his brothers. When they met he + explained to them his meeting with the white man and exhibited to their + view the presents that he had made him. He then took off his medal and + placed it on his elder brother Namah, and requested them both to go with + him to his father. + </p> + <p> + They proceeded thither, were where ushered into the tent, and after some + brief ceremony his father opened a chest and took presents therefrom for + the new comers. He discovered that Nanamakee had given his medal to his + elder brother Namah. He told him that he had done wrong; that he should + wear that medal himself, as he had others for his brothers. That which he + had given him was typical of the rank he should hold in the nation; that + his brothers could only rank as <i>civil chiefs</i>, and that their duties + should consist of taking care of the village and attending to its civil + concerns, whilst his rank, from his superior knowledge, placed him over + all. If the nation should get into any difficulty with another, then his + puccohawama, or sovereign decree, must be obeyed. If he declared war he + must lead them on to battle; that the Great Spirit had made him a great + and brave general, and had sent him here to give him that medal and make + presents to him for his people. + </p> + <p> + His father remained four days, during which time he gave him guns, powder + and lead, spears and lances, and taught him their use, so that in war he + might be able to chastise his enemies, and in peace they could kill + buffalo, deer and other game necessary for the comforts and luxuries of + life. He then presented the others with various kinds of cooking utensils + and taught them their uses. After having given them large quantities of + goods as presents, and everything necessary for their comfort, he set sail + for France, promising to meet them again, at the same place, after the + 12th moon. + </p> + <p> + The three newly made chiefs returned to their village and explained to + Mukataquet, their father, who was the principal chief of the nation, what + had been said and done. + </p> + <p> + The old chief had some dogs killed and made a feast preparatory to + resigning his scepter, to which all the nation were invited. Great anxiety + prevailed among them to know what the three brothers had seen and heard. . + When the old chief arose and related to them the sayings and doings of his + three sons, and concluded by saying that the Great Spirit had directed + that these, his three sons, should take the rank and power that had once + been his, and that he yielded these honors and duties willingly to them, + because it was the wish of the Great Spirit, and he could never consent to + make him angry. + </p> + <p> + He now presented the great medicine bag to Nanamakee, and told him that he + "cheerfully resigned it to him, it is the soul of our nation, it has never + yet been disgraced and I will expect you to keep it unsullied." + </p> + <p> + Some dissensions arose among them, in consequence of so much power being + given to Nanamakee, he being so young a man. To quiet them, Nanamakee, + during a violent thunder storm, told them that he had caused it, and that + it was an exemplification of the name the Great Spirit had given him. + During the storm the lightning struck, and set fire to a tree near by, a + sight they had never witnessed before. He went to it and brought away some + of its burning branches, made a fire in the lodge and seated his brothers + around it opposite to one another, while he stood up and addressed his + people as follows: + </p> + <p> + "I am yet young, but the Great Spirit has called me to the rank I hold + among you. I have never sought to be more than my birth entitled me to. I + have not been ambitious, nor was it ever my wish while my father was yet + among the living to take his place, nor have I now usurped his powers. The + Great Spirit caused me to dream for four years. He told me where to go and + meet the white man who would be a kind father to us all. I obeyed. I went, + and have seen and know our new father. + </p> + <p> + "You have all heard what was said and done. The Great Spirit directed him + to come and meet me, and it is his order that places me at the head of my + nation, the place which my father has willingly resigned. + </p> + <p> + "You have all witnessed the power that has been given me by the Great + Spirit, in making that fire, and all that I now ask is that these, my two + chiefs, may never let it go out. That they may preserve peace among you + and administer to the wants of the needy. And should an enemy invade our + country, I will then, and not until then, assume command, and go forth + with my band of brave warriors and endeavor to chastise them." + </p> + <p> + At the conclusion of this speech every voice cried out for Nanamakee. All + were satisfied when they found that the Great Spirit had done what they + had suspected was the work of Nanamakee, he being a very shrewd young man. + </p> + <p> + The next spring according to promise their French father returned, with + his napequa richly laden with goods, which were distributed among them. He + continued for a long time to keep up a regular trade with them, they + giving him in exchange for his goods furs and peltries. + </p> + <p> + After a long time the British overpowered the French, the two nations + being at War, and drove them away from Quebec, taking possession of it + themselves. The different tribes of Indians around our nation, envying our + people, united their forces against them and by their combined strength + succeeded in driving them to Montreal, and from thence to Mackinac. Here + our people first met our British father, who furnished them with goods. + Their enemies still wantonly pursued them and drove them to different + places along the lake. At last they made a village near Green Bay, on what + is now called Sac river, having derived its name from this circumstance. + Here they held a council with the Foxes, and a national treaty of + friendship and alliance was agreed upon. The Foxes abandoned their village + and joined the Sacs. This arrangement, being mutually obligatory upon both + parties, as neither were sufficiently strong to meet their enemies with + any hope of success, they soon became as one band or nation of people. + They were driven, however, by the combined forces of their enemies to the + Wisconsin. They remained here for some time, until a party of their young + men, who descended Rock river to its mouth, had returned and made a + favorable report of the country. They all descended Rock river, drove the + Kaskaskias from the country and commenced the erection of their village, + determined never to leave it. + </p> + <p> + At this village I was born, being a lineal descendant of the first chief, + Nanamakee, or Thunder. Few, if any events of note transpired within my + recollection until about my fifteenth year. I was not allowed to paint or + wear feathers, but distinguished myself at an early age by wounding an + enemy; consequently I was placed in the ranks of the Braves. + </p> + <p> + Soon after this a leading chief of the Muscow nation came to our village + for recruits to go to war against the Osages, our common enemy. + </p> + <p> + I volunteered my services to go, as my father had joined him, and was + proud to have an opportunity to prove to him that I was not an unworthy + son, and that I had courage and bravery. It was not long before we met the + enemy and a battle immediately ensued. Standing by my father's side, I saw + him kill his antagonist and tear the scalp from off his head. Fired with + valor and ambition, I rushed furiously upon another and smote him to the + earth with my tomahawk. I then ran my lance through his body, took off his + scalp and returned in triumph to my father. He said nothing but looked + well pleased. This was the first man I killed. The enemy's loss in this + engagement having been very great, they immediately retreated, which put + an end to the war for the time being. Our party then returned to the + village and danced over the scalps we had taken. This was the first time I + was permitted to join in a scalp dance. + </p> + <p> + After a few moons had passed, being acquired considerable reputation as a + brave, I led a party of seven and attacked one hundred Osages! I killed + one man and left him for my comrades to scalp while I was taking + observations of the strength and preparations of the enemy. Finding that + they were equally well armed with ourselves, I ordered a retreat and came + off without the loss of a man. This excursion gained for me great + applause, and enabled me, before a great while, to raise a party of one + hundred and eighty to march against the Osages. We left our village in + high spirits and marched over a rugged country, until we reached the land + of the Osages, on the borders of the Missouri. + </p> + <p> + We followed their trail until we arrived at the village, which we + approached with exceeding caution, thinking that they were all here, but + found, to our sorrow, that they had deserted it. The party became + dissatisfied in consequence of this disappointment, and all, with the + exception of five noble braves, dispensed and went home. I then placed + myself at the head of this brave little band, and thanked the Great Spirit + that so <i>many</i> had remained. We took to the trail of our enemies, + with a full determination never to return without some trophy of victory. + We followed cautiously on for several days, killed one man and a boy, and + returned home with their scalps. + </p> + <p> + In consequence of this mutiny in camp, I was not again able to raise a + sufficient force to go against the Osages until about my Nineteenth year. + During this interim they committed many outrages on our nation; hence I + succeeded in recruiting two hundred efficient warriors, and early one + morning took up the line of march. In a few days we were in the enemy's + country, and we had not gone far before we met a force equal to our own + with which to contend. A general battle immediately commenced, although my + warriors were considerably fatigued by forced marches. Each party fought + desperately. The enemy seemed unwilling to yield the ground and we were + determined to conquer or die. A great number of Osages were killed and + many wounded before they commenced a retreat. A band of warriors more + brave, skillful and efficient than mine could not be found. In this + engagement I killed five men and one squaw, and had the good fortune to + take the scalps of all I struck with one exception—that of the + squaw, who was accidentally killed. The enemy's loss in this engagement + was about one hundred braves. Ours nineteen. We then returned to our + village well pleased with our success, and danced over the scalps which we + had taken. + </p> + <p> + The Osages, in consequence of their great loss in this battle, became + satisfied to remain on their own lands. This stopped for a while their + depredations on our nation. Our attention was now directed towards an + ancient enemy who had decoyed and murdered some of our helpless women and + children. I started with my father, who took command of a small party, and + proceeded against the enemy to chastise them for the wrongs they had + heaped upon us. We met near the Merimac and an action ensued; the + Cherokees having a great advantage in point of numbers. Early in this + engagement my father was wounded in the thigh, but succeeded in killing + his enemy before he fell. Seeing that he had fallen, I assumed command, + and fought desperately until the enemy commenced retreating before the + well directed blows of our braves. I returned to my father to administer + to his necessities, but nothing could be done for him. The medicine man + said the wound was mortal, from which he soon after died. In this battle I + killed three men and wounded several. The enemy's loss was twenty-eight + and ours seven. + </p> + <p> + I now fell heir to the great medicine bag of my forefathers, which had + belonged to my father. I took it, buried our dead, and returned with my + party, sad and sorrowful, to our village, in consequence of the loss of my + father. + </p> + <p> + Owing to this misfortune I blacked my face, fasted and prayed to the Great + Spirit for five years, during which time I remained in a civil capacity, + hunting and fishing. + </p> + <p> + The Osages having again commenced aggressions on our people, and the Great + Spirit having taken pity on me, I took a small party and went against + them. I could only find six of them, and their forces being so weak, I + thought it would be cowardly to kill them, but took them prisoners and + carried them to our Spanish father at St. Louis, gave them up to him and + then returned to our village. + </p> + <p> + Determined on the final and complete extermination of the dastardly + Osages, in punishment for the injuries our people had received from them, + I commenced recruiting a strong force, immediately on my return, and + stated in the third moon, with five hundred Sacs and Foxes, and one + hundred Iowas, and marched against the enemy. We continued our march for + many days before we came upon their trail, which was discovered late in + the day. We encamped for the night, made an early start next morning, and + before sundown we fell upon forty lodges, killed all the inhabitants + except two squaws, whom I took as prisoners. Doing this engagement I + killed seven men and two boys with my own hands. In this battle many of + the bravest warriors among the Osages were killed, which caused those who + yet remained of their nation to keep within the boundaries of their own + land and cease their aggressions upon our hunting grounds. + </p> + <p> + The loss of my father, by the Cherokees, made me anxious to avenge his + death by the utter annihilation, if possible, of the last remnant of their + tribe. I accordingly commenced collecting another party to go against + them. Having succeeded in this, I started with my braves and went into + their country, but I found only five of their people, whom I took + prisoners. I afterwards released four of them, the other, a young squaw, + we brought home. Great as was my hatred of these people, I could not kill + so small a party. + </p> + <p> + About the close of the ninth moon, I led a large party against the + Chippewas, Kaskaskias and Osages. This was the commencement of a long and + arduous campaign, which terminated in my thirty-fifth year, after having + had seven regular engagements and numerous small skirmishes. During this + campaign several hundred of the enemy were slain. I killed thirteen of + their bravest warriors with my own hands. + </p> + <p> + Our enemies having now been driven from our hunting grounds, with so great + a loss as they sustained, we returned in peace to our village. After the + seasons of mourning and burying our dead braves and of feasting and + dancing had passed, we commenced preparations for our winter's hunt. When + all was ready we started on the chase and returned richly laden with the + fruits of the hunter's toil. + </p> + <p> + We usually paid a visit to St. Louis every summer, but in consequence of + the long protracted war in which we had been engaged, I had not been there + for some years. + </p> + <p> + Our difficulties all having been settled, I concluded to take a small + party and go down to see our Spanish father during the summer. We went, + and on our arrival put up our lodges where the market house now stands. + After painting and dressing we called to see our Spanish father and were + kindly received. He gave us a great variety of presents and an abundance + of provisions. We danced through the town as usual, and the inhabitants + all seemed well pleased. They seemed to us like brothers, and always gave + us good advice. On my next and last visit to our Spanish father, I + discovered on landing, that all was not right. Every countenance seemed + sad and gloomy. I inquired the cause and was informed that the Americans + were coming to take possession of the town and country, and that we were + to lose our Spanish father. This news made me and my band exceedingly sad, + because we had always heard bad accounts of the Americans from the Indians + who had lived near them. We were very sorry to lose our Spanish father, + who had always treated us 'with great friendship. + </p> + <p> + A few days afterwards the Americans arrived. I, in company with my band, + went to take leave for the last time of our father. The Americans came to + see him also. Seeing their approach, we passed out at one door as they + came in at another. We immediately embarked in our canoes for our village + on Rock river, not liking the change any more than our friends at St. + Louis appeared to. + </p> + <p> + On arriving at our village we gave out the news that a strange people had + taken possession of St. Louis and that we should never see our generous + Spanish father again. This information cast a deep gloom over our people. + </p> + <p> + Sometime afterwards a boat came up the river with a young American chief, + at that time Lieutenant, and afterwards General Pike, and a small party of + soldiers aboard. The boat at length arrived at Rock river and the young + chief came on shore with his interpreter. He made us a speech and gave us + some presents, in return for which we gave him meat and such other + provisions as we could spare. + </p> + <p> + We were well pleased with the speech of the young chief. He gave us good + advice and said our American father would treat us well. He presented us + an American flag which we hoisted. He then requested us to lower the <i>British + colors</i>, which were waving in the air, and to give him our British + medals, promising to send others on his return to St: Louis. This we + declined to do as we wished to have two fathers. + </p> + <p> + When the young chief started we sent runners to the village of the Foxes, + some miles distant, to direct them to treat him well as he passed, which + they did. He went to the head of the Mississippi and then returned to St. + Louis. We did not see any Americans again for some time, being supplied + with goods by British traders. + </p> + <p> + We were fortunate in not giving up our medals, for we learned afterwards, + from our traders, that the chiefs high up the Mississippi, who gave + theirs, never received any in exchange for them. But the fault was not + with the young American chief. He was a good man, a great brave, and I + have since learned, died in his country's service. + </p> + <p> + Some moons after this young chief had descended the Mississippi, one of + our people killed an American, was taken prisoner and was confined in the + prison at St. Louis for the offence. We held a council at our village to + see what could be done for him, and determined that Quashquame, Pashepaho, + Ouchequaka and Hashequarhiqua should go down to St. Louis, see our + American father and do all they could to have our friend released by + paying for the person killed, thus covering the blood and satisfying the + relations of the murdered man. This being the only means with us for + saving a person who had killed another, and we then thought it was the + same way with the whites. + </p> + <p> + The party started with the good wishes of the whole nation, who had high + hopes that the emissaries would accomplish the object of their mission. + The relations of the prisoner blacked their faces and fasted, hoping the + Great Spirit would take pity on them and return husband and father to his + sorrowing wife and weeping children. + </p> + <p> + Quashquame and party remained a long time absent. They at length returned + and encamped near the village, a short distance below it, and did not come + up that day, nor did any one approach their camp. They appeared to be + dressed in fine coats and had medals. From these circumstances we were in + hopes that they had brought good news. Early the next morning the Council + Lodge was crowded, Quashquame and party came up and gave us the following + account of their mission: + </p> + <p> + On our arrival at St. Louis we met our American father and explained to + him our business, urging the release of our friend. The American chief + told us he wanted land. We agreed to give him some on the west side of the + Mississippi, likewise more on the Illinois side opposite Jeffreon. When + the business was all arranged we expected to have our friend released to + come home with us. About the time we were ready to start our brother was + let out of the prison. He started and ran a short distance when he was + SHOT DEAD! + </p> + <p> + This was all they could remember of what had been said and done. It + subsequently appeared that they had been drunk the greater part of the + time while at St. Louis. + </p> + <p> + This was all myself and nation knew of the treaty of 1804. It has since + been explained to me. I found by that treaty, that all of the country east + of the Mississippi, and south of Jeffreon was ceded to the United States + for one thousand dollars a year. I will leave it to the people of the + United States to say whether our nation was properly represented in this + treaty? Or whether we received a fair compensation for the extent of + country ceded by these four individuals? + </p> + <p> + I could say much more respecting this treaty, but I will not at this time. + It has been the origin of all our serious difficulties with the whites. + </p> + <p> + Sometime after this treaty was made, a war chief with a party of soldiers + came up in keel boats, encamped a short distance above the head of the Des + Moines rapids, and commenced cutting timber and building houses. The news + of their arrival was soon carried to all our villages, to confer upon + which many councils were held. We could not understand the intention, or + comprehend the reason why the Americans wanted to build homes at that + place. We were told that they were a party of soldiers, who had brought + great guns with them, and looked like a war party of whites. + </p> + <p> + A number of people immediately went down to see what was going on, myself + among them. On our arrival we found that they were building a fort. The + soldiers were busily engaged in cutting timber, and I observed that they + took their arms with them when they went to the woods. The whole party + acted as they would do in an enemy's country. The chiefs held a council + with the officers, or head men of the party, which I did not attend, but + understood from them that the war chief had said that they were building + homes for a trader who was coming there to live, and would sell us goods + very cheap, and that the soldiers were to remain to keep him company. We + were pleased at this information ad hoped that it was all true, but we + were not so credulous as to believe that all these buildings were intended + merely for the accommodation of a trader. Being distrustful of their + intentions, we were anxious for them to leave off building and go back + down the river. + </p> + <p> + By this time a considerable number of Indians had arrived to see what was + doing. I discovered that the whites were alarmed. Some of our young men + watched a party of soldiers, who went out to work, carrying their arms, + which were laid aside before they commenced. Having stolen quietly to the + spot they seized the guns and gave a wild yell! The party threw down their + axes and ran for their arms, but found them gone, and themselves + surrounded. Our young men laughed at them and returned their weapons. + </p> + <p> + When this party came to the fort they reported what had been done, and the + war chief made a serious affair of it. He called our chiefs to council + inside his fort. This created considerable excitement in our camp, every + one wanting to know what was going to be done. The picketing which had + been put up, being low, every Indian crowded around the fort, got upon + blocks of wood and old barrels that they might see what was going on + inside. Some were armed with guns and others with bows and arrows. We used + this precaution, seeing that the soldiers had their guns loaded and having + seen them load their big guns in the morning. + </p> + <p> + A party of our braves commenced dancing and proceeded up to the gate with + the intention of, going in, but were stopped. The council immediately + broke up, the soldiers with their guns in hands rushed out from the rooms + where they had been concealed. The cannon were hauled to the gateway, and + a soldier came running with fire in his hand, ready to apply the match. + Our braves gave way and retired to the camp. There was no preconcerted + plan to attack the whites at that time, but I am of the opinion now that + had our braves got into the fort all of the whites would have been killed, + as were the British soldiers at Mackinac many years before. + </p> + <p> + We broke up our camp and returned to Rock river. A short time afterward + the party at the fort received reinforcements, among whom we observed some + of our old friends from St. Louis. + </p> + <p> + Soon after our return from Fort Madison runners came to our village from + the Shawnee Prophet. Others were despatched by him to the village of the + Winnebagoes, with invitations for us to meet him on the Wabash. + Accordingly a party went from each village. + </p> + <p> + All of our party returned, among whom came a prophet, who explained to us + the bad treatment the different nations of Indians had received from the + Americans, by giving them a few presents and taking their land from them. + </p> + <p> + I remember well his saying: "If you do not join your friends on the + Wabash, the Americans will take this very village from you!" I little + thought then that his words would come true, supposing that he used these + arguments merely to encourage us to join him, which we concluded not to + do. He then returned to the Wabash, where a party Of Winnebagoes had + preceded him, and preparations were making for war. A battle soon ensued + in which several Winnebagoes were killed. As soon as their nation heard of + this battle, and that some of their people had been killed, they sent + several war parties in different directions. One to the mining county, one + to Prairie du Chien, and another to Fort Madison. The latter returned by + our village and exhibited several scalps which they had taken. Their + success induced several parties to go against the fort. Myself and several + of my band joined the last party, and were determined to take the fort. We + arrived in the vicinity during the night. The spies that we had sent out + several days before to watch the movements of those at the garrison, and + ascertain their numbers, came to us and gave the following information: "A + keel arrived from below this evening with seventeen men. There are about + fifty men in the fort and they march out every morning to exercise." It + was immediately determined that we should conceal ourselves in a position + as near as practicable to where the soldiers should come out, and when the + signal was given each one was to fire on them and rush into the fort. With + my knife I dug a hole in the ground deep enough that by placing a few + weeds around it, succeeded in concealing myself. I was so near the fort + that I could hear the sentinels walking on their beats. By day break I had + finished my work and was anxiously awaiting the rising of the sun. The + morning drum beat. I examined the priming of my gun, and eagerly watched + for the gate to open. It did open, but instead of the troops, a young man + came out alone and the gate closed after him. He passed so close to me + that I could have killed him with my knife, but I let him pass unharmed. + He kept the path toward the river, and had he gone one step from it, he + must have come upon us and would have been killed. He returned immediately + and entered the gate. I would now have rushed for the gate and entered it + with him, but I feared that our party was not prepared to follow me. + </p> + <p> + The gate opened again when four men emerged and went down to the river for + wood. While they were gone another man came out, walked toward the river, + was fired on and killed by a Winnebago. The others started and ran rapidly + towards the fort, but two of them were shot down dead. We then took + shelter under the river's bank out of reach of the firing from the fort. + </p> + <p> + The firing now commenced from both parties and was kept up without + cessation all day. I advised our party to set fire to the fort, and + commenced preparing arrows for that purpose. At night we made the attempt, + and succeeded in firing the buildings several times, but without effect, + as the fire was always instantly extinguished. + </p> + <p> + The next day I took my rifle and shot in two the cord by which they + hoisted their flag, and prevented them from raising it again. We continued + firing until our ammunition was expended. Finding that we could not take + the fort, we returned home, having one Winnebago killed and one wounded + during the siege. + </p> + <p> + I have since learned that the trader who lived in the fort, wounded the + Winnebago while he was scalping the first man that was killed. The + Winnebago recovered, and is now living, and is very friendly disposed + towards the trader, believing him to be a great brave. + </p> + <p> + Soon after our return home, news reached us that a war was going to take + place between the British and the Americans. + </p> + <p> + Runners continued to arrive from different tribes, all confirming the + reports of the expected war. The British agent, Colonel Dixon, was holding + talks with, and making presents to the different tribes. I had not made up + my mind whether to join the British or remain neutral. I had not + discovered yet one good trait in the character of the Americans who had + come to the country. They made fair promises but never fulfilled them, + while the British made but few, and we could always rely implicitly on + their word. + </p> + <p> + One of our people having killed a Frenchman at Prairie du Chien, the + British took him prisoner and said they would shoot him next day. His + family were encamped a short distance below the mouth of the Wisconsin. He + begged for permission to go and see them that night, as he was to die the + next day. They permitted him to go after he had promised them to return by + sunrise the next morning. + </p> + <p> + He visited his family, which consisted of his wife and six children. I can + not describe their meeting and parting so as to be understood by the + whites, as it appears that their feelings are acted upon by certain rules + laid down by their preachers, while ours are governed by the monitor + within us. He bade his loved ones the last sad farewell and hurried across + the prairie to the fort and arrived in time. The soldiers were ready and + immediately marched out and shot him down. I visited the stricken family, + and by hunting and fishing provided for them until they reached their + relations. + </p> + <p> + Why did the Great Spirit ever send the whites to this island to drive us + from our homes and introduce among us poisonous liquors, disease and + death? They should have remained in the land the Great Spirit allotted + them. But I will proceed with my story. My memory, however, is not very + good since my late visit to the white people. I have still a buzzing noise + in my ear from the noise and bustle incident to travel. I may give some + parts of my story out of place, but will make my best endeavors to be + correct. + </p> + <p> + Several of our chiefs were called upon to go to Washington to see our + Great Father. They started and during their absence I went to Peoria, on + the Illinois river, to see an old friend and get his advice. He was a man + who always told u the truth, sad knew everything that was going on. When I + arrived at Peoria he had gone to Chicago, and was not at home. I visited + the Pottawattomie villages and then returned to Rock river. Soon after + which our friends returned from their visit to the Great Father and + reported what had been said and done. Their Great Father told them that in + the event of a war taking place with England, not to interfere on either + side, but remain neutral. He did not want our help, but wished us to hunt + and supply our families, and remain in peace. He said that British traders + would not be allowed to come on the Mississippi to furnish us with goods, + but that we would be well supplied by an American trader. Our chiefs then + told him that the British traders always gave us credit in the fall for + guns, powder and goods, to enable us to hunt and clothe our families. He + replied that the trader at Fort Madison would have plenty of goods, and if + we should go there in the autumn of the year, he would supply us on + credit, as the British traders had done. The party gave a good account of + what they had seen and the kind treatment they had received. This + information pleased us all very much. We all agreed to follow our Great + Father's advice and not interfere in the war. Our women were much pleased + at the good news. Everything went on cheerfully in our village. We resumed + our pastimes of playing ball, horse-racing and dancing, which had been + laid aside when this great war was first talked about. We had fine crops + of corn which were now ripe, and our women were busily engaged in + gathering it and making caches to contain it. + </p> + <p> + In a short time we were ready to start to Fort Madison to get our supply + of goods, that we might proceed to our hunting grounds. We passed merrily + down the river, all in high spirits. I had determined to spend the winter + at my old favorite hunting ground on Skunk river. I left part of my corn + and mats at its mouth to take up as we returned and many others did the + same. + </p> + <p> + The next morning we arrived at the fort and made our encampment. Myself + and principal men paid a visit to the war chief at the fort. He received + us kindly and gave us some tobacco, pipes and provisions. + </p> + <p> + The trader came in and we all shook hands with him, for on him all our + dependence was placed, to enable us to hunt and thereby support our + families. We waited a long time, expecting the trader would tell us that + he had orders from our Great Father to supply us with goods, but he said + nothing on the subject. I got up and told him in a short speech what we + had come for, and hoped he had plenty of goods to supply us. I told him + that he should be well paid in the spring, and concluded by informing him + that we had decided to follow our Great Father's advice and not go to war. + </p> + <p> + He said that he was happy to hear that we had concluded to remain in + peace. That he had a large quantity of goods, and that if we had made a + good hunt we should be well supplied, but he remarked that he had received + no instructions to furnish us anything on credit, nor could he give us any + without receiving the pay for them on the spot! + </p> + <p> + We informed him what our Great Father had told our chiefs at Washington, + and contended that he could supply us if he would, believing that our + Great Father always spoke the truth. The war chief said the trader could + not furnish us on credit, and that he had received no instructions from + our Great Father at Washington. We left the fort dissatisfied and went to + camp. What was now to be done we knew not. We questioned the party that + brought us the news from our Great Father, that we could get credit for + our winter supplies at this place. They still told the same story and + insisted on its truth. Few of us slept that night. All was gloom and + discontent. + </p> + <p> + In the morning a canoe was seen descending the river, bearing an express, + who brought intelligence that La Gutrie, a British trader, had landed at + Rock Island with two boat loads of goods. He requested us to come up + immediately as he had good news for us, and a variety of presents. The + express presented us with tobacco, pipes and wampum. The news ran through + our camp like fire through dry grass on the prairie. Our lodges were soon + taken down and we all started for Rock Island. Here ended all hopes of our + remaining at peace, having been forced into war by being deceived. + </p> + <p> + Our party were not long in getting to Rock Island. When we came in sight + and saw tents pitched, we yelled, fired our guns and beat our drums. Guns + were immediately fired at the island, returning our salute, and a British + flag hoisted. We loaded, were cordially received by La Gutrie, and then + smoked the pipe with him. After which he made a speech to us, saying that + he had been sent by Col. Dixon. He gave us a number of handsome presents, + among them a large silk flag and a keg of rum. He then told us to retire, + take some refreshments and rest ourselves, as he would have more to say to + us next day. + </p> + <p> + We accordingly retired to our lodges, which in the meantime had been put + up, and spent the night. The next morning we called upon him and told him + we wanted his two boat loads of goods to divide among our people, for + which he should be well paid in the spring in furs and peltries. He + consented for us to take them and do as we pleased with them. While our + people were dividing the goods, he took me aside and informed me that + Colonel Dixon was at Green Bay with twelve boats loaded with goods, guns + and ammunition. He wished to raise a party immediately and go to him. He + said our friend, the trader at Peoria, was collecting the Pottawattomies + and would be there before us. I communicated this information to my + braves, and a party of two hundred warriors were soon collected and ready + to depart. I paid a visit to the lodge of an old friend, who had been the + comrade of my youth, and had been in many war parties with me, but was now + crippled and no longer able to travel. He had a son that I had adopted as + my own, and who had hunted with me the two winters preceding. I wished my + old friend to let him go with me. He objected, saying he could not get his + support if he did attend me, and that I, who had always provided for him + since his misfortune, would be gone, therefore he could not spare him as + he had no other dependence. I offered to leave my son in his stead but he + refused to give his consent. He said that he did not like the war, as he + had been down the river and had been well treated by the Americans and + could not fight against them. He had promised to winter near a white + settler above Salt river, and must take his son with him. We parted and I + soon concluded my arrangements and started with my party for Green Bay. On + our arrival there we found a large encampment; were well received by + Colonel Dixon and the war chiefs who were with him. He gave us plenty of + provisions, tobacco and pipes, saying that he would hold a council with us + the next day. In the encampment I found a great number of Kickapoos, + Ottawas and Winnebagoes. I visited all their camps and found them in high + spirits. They had all received new guns, ammunition and a variety of + clothing. + </p> + <p> + In the evening a messenger came to visit Colonel Dixon. I went to his + tent, in which them were two other war chiefs and an interpreter. He + received me with a hearty shake of the hand; presented me to the other + chiefs, who treated me cordially, expressing themselves as being much. + Pleased to meet me. After I was seated Colonel Dixon said: "General Black + Hawk, I sent for you to explain to you what we are going to do and give + you the reasons for our coming here. Our friend, La Gutrie, informs us in + the letter you brought from him, of what has lately taken place. You will + now have to hold us fast by the hand. Your English Father has found out + that the Americans want to take your country from you and has sent me and + my braves to drive them back to their own country. He has, likewise, sent + a large quantity of arms and ammunition, and we want all your warriors to + join us." + </p> + <p> + He then placed a medal around my neck and gave me a paper, which I lost in + the late war, and a silk flag, saying: "You are to command all the braves + that will leave here the day after to-morrow, to join our braves at + Detroit." + </p> + <p> + I told him I was very much disappointed, as I wanted to descend the + Mississippi and make war upon the settlements. He said he had been ordered + to lay in waste the country around St. Louis. But having been a trader on + the Mississippi for many years himself, and always having been treated + kindly by the people there, he could not send brave men to murder helpless + women and innocent children. There were no soldiers there for us to fight, + and where he was going to send us there were a great many of them. If we + defeated them the Mississippi country should be ours. I was much pleased + with this speech, as it was spoken by a brave. + </p> + <p> + I inquired about my old friend, the trader at Peoria, and observed, "that + I had expected that he would have been here before me." He shook his head + and said, "I have sent express after express for him, and have offered him + great sums of money to come and bring the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos with + him." He refused, saying, "Your British father has not enough money to + induce me to join you. I have now laid a trap for him. I have sent Gomo + and a party of Indians to take him prisoner and bring him here alive. I + expect him in a few days." + </p> + <p> + The next day arms and ammunition, knives, tomahawks and clothing were + given to my band. We had a great feast in the evening, and the morning + following I started with about five hundred braves to join the British + army. We passed Chicago and observed that the fort had been evacuated by + the Americans, and their soldiers had gone to Fort Wayne. They were + attacked a short distance from the fort and defeated. They had a + considerable quantity of powder in the fort at Chicago, which they had + promised to the Indians, but the night before they marched away they + destroyed it by throwing it into a well. If they had fulfilled their word + to the Indians, they doubtless would have gone to Fort Wayne without + molestation. On our arrival, I found that the Indians had several + prisoners, and I advised them to treat them well. We continued our march, + joining the British below Detroit, soon after which we had a battle. The + Americans fought well, and drove us back with considerable loss. I was + greatly surprised at this, as I had been told that the Americans would not + fight. + </p> + <p> + Our next movement was against a fortified place. I was stationed with my + braves to prevent any person going to, or coming from the fort. I found + two men taking care of cattle and took them prisoners. I would not kill + them, but delivered them to the British war chief. Soon after, several + boats came down the river fail of American soldiers. They landed on the + opposite side, took the British batteries, and pursued the soldiers that + had left them. They went too far without knowing the strength of the + British and were defeated. I hurried across the river, anxious for an + opportunity to show the courage of my braves, but before we reached the + scene of battle all was over. + </p> + <p> + The British had taken many prisoners and the Indians were killing them. I + immediately put a stop to it, as I never thought it brave, but base and + cowardly to kill in unarmed and helpless foe. We remained here for some + time. I can not detail what took place, as I was stationed with my braves + in the woods. It appeared, however, that the British could not take this + fort, for we marched to another, some distance off. When we approached it, + I found a small stockade, and concluded that there were not many men in + it. The British war chief sent a flag of truce. Colonel Dixon carried it, + but soon returned, reporting that the young war chief in command would not + give up the fort without fighting. Colonel Dixon came to me and said, "you + will see to-morrow, how easily we will take that fort." I was of the same + opinion, but when the morning came I was disappointed. The British + advanced and commenced the attack, fighting like true braves, but were + defeated by the braves in the fort, and a great number of our men were + killed. The British army was making preparations to retreat. I was now + tired of being with them, our success being bad, and having got no + plunder. I determined on leaving them and returning to Rock river, to see + what had become of my wife and children, as I had not heard from them + since I left home. That night I took about twenty of my braves, and left + the British camp for home. On our journey we met no one until we came to + the Illinois river. Here we found two lodges of Pottawattomies. They + received us in a very friendly manner, and gave us something to eat. I + inquired about their friends who were with the British. They said there + had been some fighting on the Illinois river, and that my friend, the + Peoria trader, had been taken prisoner. "By Gomo and his party?" I + immediately inquired. They replied, "no, but by the Americans, who came up + with boats. They took him and the French settlers prisoners, and they + burned the village of Peoria." They could give us no information regarding + our friends on Rock river. In three days more we were in the vicinity of + our village, and were soon after surprised to find that a party of + Americans had followed us from the British camp. One of them, more daring + than his comrades, had made his way through the thicket on foot, and was + just in the act of shooting me when I discovered him. I then ordered him + to surrender, marched him into camp, and turned him over to a number of + our young men with this injunction: "Treat him as a brother, as I have + concluded to adopt him in our tribe." + </p> + <p> + A little while before this occurrence I had directed my party to proceed + to the village, as I had discovered a smoke ascending from a hollow in the + bluff, and wished to go alone to the place from whence the smoke + proceeded, to see who was there. I approached the spot, and when I came in + view of the fire, I saw an old man sitting in sorrow beneath a mat which + he had stretched over him. At any other time I would have turned away + without disturbing him, knowing that he came here to be alone, to humble + himself before the Great Spirit, that he might take pity on him. I + approached and seated myself beside him. He gave one look at me and then + fixed his eyes on the ground. It was my old friend. I anxiously inquired + for his son, my adopted child, and what had befallen our people. My old + comrade seemed scarcely alive. He must have fasted a long time. I lighted + my pipe and put it into his mouth. He eagerly drew a few puffs, cast up + his eyes which met mine, and recognized me. His eyes were glassy and he + would again have fallen into forgetfulness, had I not given him some + water, which revived him. I again inquired, "what has befallen our people, + and what has become of our son?" + </p> + <p> + In a feeble voice he said, "Soon after your departure to join the British, + I descended the river with a small party, to winter at the place I told + you the white man had asked me to come to. When we arrived I found that a + fort had been built, and the white family that had invited me to come and + hunt near them had removed to it. I then paid a visit to the fort to tell + the white people that my little band were friendly, and that we wished to + hunt in the vicinity of the fort. The war chief who commanded there, told + me that we might hunt on the Illinois side of the Mississippi, and no + person would trouble us. That the horsemen only ranged on the Missouri + side, and he had directed them not to cross the river. I was pleased with + this assurance of safety, and immediately crossed over and made my + winter's camp. Game was plenty. We lived happy, and often talked of you. + My boy regretted your absence and the hardships you would have to undergo. + We had been here about two moons, when my boy went out as usual to hunt. + Night came on and he did not return. I was alarmed for his safety and + passed a sleepless night. In the morning my old woman went to the other + lodges and gave the alarm and all turned out to hunt for the missing one. + There being snow upon the ground they soon came upon his track, and after + pursuing it for some distance, found he was on the trail of a deer, which + led toward the river. They soon came to the place where he had stood and + fired, and near by, hanging on the branch of a tree, found the deer, which + he had killed and skinned. But here were also found the tracks of white + men. They had taken my boy prisoner. Their tracks led across the river and + then down towards the fort. My friends followed on the trail, and soon + found my boy lying dead. He had been most cruelly murdered. His face was + shot to pieces, his body stabbed in several places and his head scalped. + His arms were pinioned behind him." + </p> + <p> + The old man paused for some time, and then told me that his wife had died + on their way up the Mississippi. I took the hand of my old friend in mine + and pledged myself to avenge the death of his son. It was now dark, and a + terrible storm was raging. The rain was descending in heavy torrents, the + thunder was rolling in the heavens, and the lightning flashed athwart the + sky. I had taken my blanket off and wrapped it around the feeble old man. + When the storm abated I kindled a fire and took hold of my old friend to + remove him nearer to it. He was dead! I remained with him during the + night. Some of my party came early in the morning to look for me, and + assisted me in burying him on the peak of the bluff. I then returned to + the village with my friends. I visited the grave of my old friend as I + ascended Rock river the last time. + </p> + <p> + On my arrival at the village I was met by the chiefs and braves and + conducted to the lodge which was prepared for me. After eating, I gave a + fall account of all that I had seen and done. I explained to my people the + manner in which the British and Americans fought. Instead of stealing upon + each other and taking every advantage to kill the enemy and save their own + people as we do, which, with us is considered good policy in a war chief, + they march out in open daylight and fight regardless of the number of + warriors they may lose. After the battle is over they retire to feast and + drink wine as if nothing had happened. After which they make a statement + in writing of what they have done, each party claiming the victory, and + neither giving an account of half the number that have been killed on + their own side They all fought like braves, but would not do to lead a + party with us. Our maxim is: "Kill the enemy and save our own men." Those + chiefs will do to paddle a canoe but not to steer it. The Americans shot + better than the British, but their soldiers were not so well clothed, nor + so well provided for. + </p> + <p> + The village chief informed me that after I started with my braves and the + parties who followed, the nation was reduced to a small party of fighting + men; that they would have been unable to defend themselves if the + Americans had attacked them. That all the children and old men and women + belonging to the warriors who had joined the British were left with them + to provide for. A council had been called which agreed that Quashquame, + the Lance, and other chiefs, with the old men, women and children, and + such others as chose to accompany them, should descend the Mississippi to + St. Louis, and place themselves under the American chief stationed there. + They accordingly went down to St. Louis, were received as the friendly + band of our nation, were sent up the Missouri and provided for, while + their friends were assisting the British! + </p> + <p> + Keokuk was then introduced to me as the war chief of the braves then in + the village. I inquired how he had become chief? They said that a large + armed force was seen by their spies going toward Peoria. Fears were + entertained that they would come up and attack the village and a council + had been called to decide as to the best course to be adopted, which + concluded upon leaving the village and going to the west side of the + Mississippi to get out of the way. Keokuk, during the sitting of the + council, had been standing at the door of the lodge, not being allowed to + enter, as he had never killed an enemy, where he remained until old Wacome + came out. He then told him that he heard what they had decided upon, and + was anxious to be permitted to speak before the council adjourned. Wacome + returned and asked leave for Keokuk to come in and make a speech. His + request was granted. Keokuk entered and addressed the chiefs. He said: "I + have heard with sorrow that you have determined to leave our village and + cross the Mississippi, merely because you have been told that the + Americans were coming in this direction. Would you leave our village, + desert our homes and fly before an enemy approaches? Would you leave all, + even the graves of our fathers, to the mercy of an enemy without trying to + defend them? Give me charge of your warriors and I'll defend the village + while you sleep in safety." + </p> + <p> + The council consented that Keokuk should be war chief. He marshalled his + braves, sent out his spies and advanced with a party himself on the trail + leading to Peoria. They returned without seeing an enemy. The Americans + did not come by our village. All were satisfied with the appointment of + Keokuk. He used every precaution that our people should not be surprised. + This is the manner in which and the cause of his receiving the + appointment. + </p> + <p> + I was satisfied, and then started to visit my wife and children. I found + them well, and my boys were growing finely. It is not customary for us to + say much about our women, as they generally perform their part cheerfully + and never interfere with business belonging to the men. This is the only + wife I ever had or ever will have. She is a good woman, and teaches my + boys to be brave. Here I would have rested myself and enjoyed the comforts + of my lodge, but I could not. I had promised to avenge the death of my + adopted son. + </p> + <p> + I immediately collected a party of thirty braves, and explained to them + the object of my making this war party, it being to avenge the death of my + adopted son, who had been cruelly and wantonly murdered by the whites. I + explained to them the pledge I had made to his father, and told them that + they were the last words that he had heard spoken. All were willing to go + with me to fulfill my word. We started in canoes, and descended the + Mississippi, until we arrived ear the place where Fort Madison had stood. + It had been abandoned and burned by the whites, and nothing remained but + the chimneys. We were pleased to see that the white people had retired + from the country. We proceeded down the river again. I landed with one + brave near Cape Gray, the remainder of the party went to the mouth of the + Quiver. I hurried across to the tail that led from the mouth of the Quiver + to a fort, and soon after heard firing at the mouth of the creek. Myself + and brave concealed ourselves on the side of the road. We had not remained + here long before two men, riding one horse, came at full speed from the + direction of the sound of the firing. When they came sufficiently near we + fired; the horse jumped and both men fell. We rushed toward them and one + rose and ran. I followed him and was gaining on him, when he ran over a + pile of rails that had lately been made, seized a stick and struck at me. + I now had an opportunity to see his face, and I knew him. He had been at + Qaashquame's village to teach his people how to plow. We looked upon him + as a good man. I did not wish to kill him, and pursued him no further. I + returned and met my brave. He said he had killed the other man and had his + scalp in his hand. We had not proceeded far before we met the man supposed + to be killed, coming up the road, staggering like a drunken man, and + covered all over with blood. This was the most terrible sight I had ever + seen. I told my comrade to kill him to put him out of his misery. I could + not look at him. I passed on and heard a rustling in the bushes. I + distinctly saw two little boys concealing themselves in the undergrowth, + thought of my own children, and passed on without noticing them. My + comrade here joined me, and in a little while we met the other detachment + of our party. I told them that we would be pursued, and directed them to + follow me. We crossed the creek and formed ourselves in the timber. We had + not been here long, when a party of mounted men rushed at full speed upon + us. I took deliberate aim and shot the leader of the party. He fell + lifeless from his horse. All my people fired, but without effect. The + enemy rushed upon us without giving us time to reload. They surrounded us + and forced us into a deep sink-hole, at the bottom of which there were + some bushes. We loaded our gum and awaited the approach of the enemy. They + rushed to the edge of the hole, fired on us and killed one of our men. We + instantly returned their fire, killing one of their party. We reloaded and + commenced digging holes in the side of the bank to protect ourselves, + while a party watched the enemy, expecting their whole force would be upon + us immediately. Some of my warriors commenced singing their death songs. I + heard the whites talking, and called to them to come out and fight. I did + not like my situation and wished the matter settled. I soon heard chopping + and knocking. I could not imagine what they were doing. Soon after they + ran up a battery on wheels and fired without hurting any of us. I called + to them again, and told them if they were brave men to come out and fight + us. They gave up the siege and returned to their fort about dusk. There + were eighteen in this trap with me. We came out unharmed, with the + exception of the brave who was killed by the enemy's fist fire, after we + were entrapped. We found one white man dead at the edge of the sink-hole, + whom they did not remove for fear of our fire, and scalped him, placing + our dead brave upon him, thinking we could not leave him in a better + situation than on the prostrate form of a fallen foe. + </p> + <p> + We had now effected our purpose and concluded to go back by land, thinking + it unsafe to use our canoes. I found my wife and children, and the greater + part of our people, at the mouth of the Iowa river. I now determined to + remain with my family and hunt for them, and to humble myself before the + Great Spirit, returning thanks to him for preserving me through the war. I + made my hunting camp on English river, which is a branch of the Iowa. + During the winter a party of Pottawattomies came from the Illinois to pay + me a visit, among them was Washeown, an old man who had formerly lived in + our village. He informed as that in the fall the Americans had built a + fort at Peoria and had prevented them from going down the Sangamon to + hunt. He said they were very much distressed. Gomo had returned from the + British army, and brought news of their defeat near Malden. He told us + that he went to the American chief with a flag, gave up fighting, and told + him he desired to make peace for his nation. The American chief gave him a + paper to the war chief at Peoria, and I visited that fort with Gomo. It + was then agreed that there should be no more hostilities between the + Americans and the Pottawattomies. Two of the white chiefs, with eight + Pottawattomie braves, and five others, Americans, had gone down to St. + Louis to have the treaty of peace confirmed. This, said Washeown, is good + news; for we can now go to our hunting grounds, and, for my part, I never + had anything to do with this war. The Americans never killed any of our + people before the war, nor interfered with our hunting grounds, and I + resolved to do nothing against them. I made no reply to these remarks as + the speaker was old and talked like a child. + </p> + <p> + We gave the Pottawattomies a great feast. I presented Washeown with a good + horse. My braves gave one to each of his party, and, at parting, said they + wished us to make peace, which we did not promise, but told them that we + would not send out war parties against the settlements. + </p> + <p> + A short time after the Pottawattomies had gone, a party of thirty braves + belonging to our nation, from the peace camp on the Missouri, paid us a + visit. They exhibited five scalps which they had taken on the Missouri, + and wished us to join in a dance over them, which we willingly did. They + related the manner in which they had taken these scalps. Myself and braves + showed them the two we had taken near the Quiver, and told them the cause + that induced us to go out with the war party, as well as the manner in + which we took these scalps, and the difficulty we had in obtaining them. + </p> + <p> + They recounted to us all that had taken place, the number that had been + slain by the peace party, as they were called and recognized to be, which + far surpassed what our warriors, who had joined the British, had done. + This party came for the purpose of joining the British, but I advised them + to return to the peace party, and told them the news which the + Pottawattomies had brought. They returned to the Missouri, accompanied by + some of my braves whose families were there. + </p> + <p> + After "sugar-making" was over in the spring, I visited the Fox village at + the lead mines. They had nothing to do with the war, and consequently were + not in mourning. I remained there some days, spending my time very + pleasantly with them in dancing and feasting. I then paid a visit to the + Pottawattomie village on the Illinois river, and learned that Sanatuwa and + Tatapuckey had been to St. Louis. Gomo told me that "peace had been made + between his people and the Americans, and that seven of his band remained + with the war chief to make the peace stronger." He then told me: "Washeown + is dead! He had gone to the fort to carry some wild fowl to exchange for + tobacco, pipes and other articles. He had secured some tobacco and a + little flour, and left the fort before sunset, but had not proceeded far + when he was <i>shot dead</i> by a white war chief, who had concealed + himself near the path for that purpose. He then dragged him to the lake + and threw him in, where I afterwards found him. I have since given two + homes and a rifle to his relatives, not to break the peace, to which they + have agreed." + </p> + <p> + I remained for some time at the village of Gomo, and went with him to the + fort to pay a visit to the war chief. I spoke the Pottawattomie tongue + well, and was taken for one of their people by him. He treated us + friendly, and said he was very much displeased about the murder of' + Washeown. He promised us he would find out and punish the person who + killed him. He made some inquiries about the Sacs, which I answered. On my + return to Rock river, I was informed that a party of soldiers had gone up + the Mississippi to build a fort at Prairie du Chien. They stopped near our + village, appearing very friendly, and were treated kindly by our people. + </p> + <p> + We commenced repairing our lodges, putting our village in order, and + clearing our cornfields. We divided the fields belonging to the party on + the Missouri among those who wanted them, on condition that they should be + relinquished to their owners on their return from the peace establishment. + We were again happy in our village. Our women went cheerfully to work and + all moved on harmoniously. + </p> + <p> + Some time afterward, five or six boats arrived loaded with soldiers on + their way to Prairie du Chien to reinforce the garrison at that place. + They appeared friendly and were well received, and we held a council with + the war chief. We had no intention of hurting him or any of his party, for + we could easily have defeated them. They remained with us all day and gave + oar people plenty of whisky. Doing the night a party arrived, by way of + Rock river, who brought us six kegs of powder. They told us that the + British had gone to Prairie du Chien and taken the fort. They wished us to + again join them in the war, which we agreed to do. I collected my warriors + and determined to pursue the boats, which had sailed with a fair wind. If + we had known the day before, we could easily have taken them all, as the + war chief used no precaution to prevent it. + </p> + <p> + I started immediately with my party, by land, in pursuit, thinking that + some of their boats might get aground, or that the Great Spirit would put + them in our power, if he wished them taken and their people killed. About + half way up the rapids I had a full view of the boats all sailing with a + strong wind. I discovered that one boat was badly managed, and was + suffered to be drawn ashore by the wind. They landed by running hard + aground and lowered their sail. The others passed on. This boat the Great + Spirit gave to us. All that could, hurried aboard, but they were unable to + push off, being fast aground. We advanced to the river's bank undercover, + and commenced firing on the boat. I encouraged my braves to continue + firing. Several guns were fired from the boat, but without effect. I + prepared my bow and arrows to throw fire to the sail, which was lying on + the boat. After two or three attempts, I succeeded in setting it on fire. + The boat was soon in flames. About this time, one of the boats that had + passed returned, dropped anchor and swung in close to one which was on + fire, taking off all the people except those who were killed or badly + wounded. We could distinctly see them passing from one boat to the other, + and fired on them with good effect. We wounded the war chief in this way. + Another boat now came down, dropped her anchor, which did not take hold, + and drifted whore. The other boat cut her cable and drifted down the + river, leaving their comrades without attempting to assist them. We then + commenced an attack upon this boat, firing several rounds, which was not + returned. We thought they were afraid or only had a few aboard. I + therefore ordered a rush toward the boat, but when we got near enough they + fired, killing two of our braves—these being all we lost in the + engagement. Some of their men jumped out and shoved the boat off, and thus + got away without losing a man. I had a good opinion of this war chief, as + he managed so much better than the others. It would give me pleasure to + shake him by the hand. + </p> + <p> + We now put out the fire on the captured boat to save the cargo, when a + skiff was seen coming down the river. Some of our people cried out, "Here + comes an express from Prairie du Chien." We hoisted the British flag, but + they would not land. They turned their little boat around, and rowed up + the river. We directed a few shots at them, but they were so far off that + we could not hurt them. I found several barrels of whisky on the captured + boat, knocked in the heads and emptied the bad medicine late the river. I + next found a box full of small bottles and packages, which appeared to be + bad medicine also, such as the medicine men kill the white people with + when they are sick. This I threw into the river. Continuing my search for + plunder, I found several guns, some large barrels filled with clothing, + and a number of cloth lodges, all of which I distributed among my + warriors. We now disposed of the dead, and returned to the Fox village + opposite the lower end of Rock Island, where we put up our new lodges, and + hoisted the British flag. A great many of our braves were dressed in the + uniform clothing which we had taken from the Americans, which gave our + encampment the appearance of a regular camp of soldiers. We placed out + sentinels and commenced dancing over the scalps we had taken. Soon after + several boats passed down, among them a very large one carrying big guns. + Our young men followed them some distance, but could do them no damage + more than scare them. We were now certain that the fort at Prairie du + Chien had been taken, as this large boat went up with the first party who + built the fort. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the day some of the British came down in a small boat. + They had followed the large one, thinking it would get fast in the rapids, + in which case they were sure of taking her. They had summoned her on her + way down to surrender, but she refused to do so, and now, that she had + passed the rapids in safety, all hope of taking her had vanished. The + British landed a big gun and gave us three soldiers to manage it. They + complimented us for our bravery in taking the boat, and told us what they + had done at Prairie do Chien. They gave us, a keg of rum, and joined with + us in our dancing and feasting. We gave them some things which we had + taken from the boat, particularly books and papers. They started the next + morning, promising to return in a few days with a large body of soldiers. + </p> + <p> + We went to work under the direction of the men left with us, and dug up + the ground in two places to put the big gun in, that the men might remain + in with it and be safe. We then sent spies down the river to reconnoitre, + who sent word by a runner that several boats were coming up filled with + men. I marshalled my forces and was soon ready for their arrival. I + resolved to fight, as we had not yet had a fair fight with the Americans + during the war. The boats arrived in the evening, stopping at a small + willow island, nearly opposite to us. During the night we removed our big + gun further down, and at daylight next morning commenced firing. We were + pleased to see that almost every shot took effect. The British being good + gunners, rarely missed. They pushed off as quickly as possible, although I + had expected they would land and give us battle. I was fully prepared to + meet them but was sadly disappointed by the boats all sailing down the + river. A party of braves followed to watch where they landed, but they did + not stop until they got below the Des Moines rapids, where they came + ashore and commenced building a fort. I did not want a fort in our + country, as we wished to go down to the Two River country in the fall and + hunt, it being our choice hunting ground, and we concluded that if this + fort was built, it would prevent us from going there. We arrived in the + vicinity in the evening, and encamped on a high bluff for the night. We + made no fire, for fear of being observed, and our young men kept watch by + turns while others slept. I was very tired, and was soon asleep. The Great + Spirit, during my slumber, told me to go down the bluff to a creek, that I + would there find a hollow tree cut down, and by looking in at the top of + it, I would see a large snake with head erect—to observe the + direction he was looking, and I would see the enemy close by and unarmed. + In the morning I communicated to my braves what the Great Spirit had said + to me, took one of them and went down a ravine that led to the creek. I + soon came in sight of the place where they were building the fort, which + was on a hill at the opposite side of the creek. I saw a great many men. + We crawled cautiously on our hands and knees until we got to the bottom + land, then through the grass and weeds until we reached the bank of the + creek. Here I found a tree that had been cut down; I looked in at the top + of it and saw a large snake, with his head raised, looking across the + creek. I raised myself cautiously, and discovered nearly opposite to me, + two war chiefs walking arm in arm, without guns. They turned and walked + back toward the place where the men were working at the fort. In a little + while they returned, walking directly towards the spot where we lay + concealed, but did not come so near as before. If they had they would have + been killed, for each of us had a good rifle. We crossed the creek and + crawled to a cluster of bushes. I again raised myself a little to see if + they were coming; but they went into the fort, and by this they saved + their lives. + </p> + <p> + We recrossed the creek and I returned alone, going up the same ravine I + came down. My brave went down the creek, and I, on raising the brow of a + hill to the left of the one we came down, could plainly see the men at + work. I saw a sentinel walking in the bottom near the mouth of the creek. + I watched him attentively, to see if he perceived my companion, who had + gone toward him. The sentinel stopped for some time and looked toward + where my brave was concealed. He walked first one way and then the other. + </p> + <p> + I observed my brave creeping towards him, at last he lay still for a + while, not even moving the grass, and as the sentinel turned to walk away, + my brave fired and he fell. I looked towards the fort, and saw the whites + were in great confusion, running wildly in every direction, some down the + steep bank toward a boat. My comrade joined me, we returned to the rest of + the party and all hurried back to Rock river, where we arrived in safety + at our village. I hung up my medicine bag, put away my rifle and spear, + feeling as if I should want them no more, as I had no desire to raise + other war parties against the whites unless they gave me provocation. + Nothing happened worthy of note until spring, except that the fort below + the rapids had been abandoned and burned by the Americans. + </p> + <p> + Soon after I returned from my wintering ground we received information + that peace had been made between the British and Americans, and that we + were required to make peace also, and were invited to go down to Portage + des Sioux, for that purpose. Some advised that we should go down, others + that we should not. Nomite, our principal civil chief, said he would go, + as soon as the Foxes came down from the mines. + </p> + <p> + They came and we all started from Rock river, but we had not gone far + before our chief was taken sick and we stopped with him at the village on + Henderson river. The Foxes went on and we were to follow as soon as our + chief got better, but he rapidly became worse and soon died. His brother + now became the principal chief. He refused to go down, saying, that if he + started, he would be taken sick and die as his brother had done. This + seemed to be reasonable, so we concluded that none of us would go at this + time. The Foxes returned. They said, "we have smoked the pipe of peace + with our enemies, and expect that the Americans will send a war party + against you if you do not go down." This I did not believe, as the + Americans had always lost by their armies that were sent against us. La + Gutrie and other British traders arrived at our village in the fall. La + Gutrie told us that we must go down and make peace, as this was the wish + of our English father. He said he wished us to go down to the Two River + country to winter, where game was plenty, as there had been no hunting + there for several years. + </p> + <p> + Having heard the principal war chief had come up with a number of troops, + and commenced the erection of a fort near the Rapids des Moines, we + consented to go down with the traders to visit the American chief, and + tell him the reason why we had not been down sooner. When we arrived at + the head of the rapids, the traders left their goods, and all of their + boats with one exception, in which they accompanied us to see the + Americans. We visited the war chief on board his boat, telling him what we + had to say, and explaining why we had not been down sooner. He appeared + angry and talked to La Gutrie for some time. I inquired of him what the + war chief said. He told me that he was threatening to hang him up to the + yard arm of his boat. "But" said he, "I am not afraid of what he says. He + dare not put his threats into execution. I have done no more than I had a + right to do a. a British subject." + </p> + <p> + I then addressed the chief, asking permission for ourselves and some + Menomonees, to go down to the Two River country for the purpose of + hunting. He said we might go down but must return before the ice came, as + he did not intend that we should winter below the fort. "But," he + inquired, "what do you want the Menomonee to go with you for?" + </p> + <p> + I did not know at first what reply to make, but told him that they had a + great many pretty squaws with them, and we wished them to go with us on + that account. He consented. We all went down the river and remained all + winter, as we had no intention of returning before spring when we asked + leave to go. We made a good hunt. Having loaded our trader's boats with + furs and peltries, they started to Mackinac, and we returned to our + village. + </p> + <p> + There is one circumstance that I did not relate at the proper place. It + has no reference to myself or people, but to my friend Gomo, the + Pottawattomie chief. He came to Rock river to pay me a visit, and during + his stay he related to me the following story: + </p> + <p> + "The war chief at Peoria is a very good man. He always speaks the truth + and treats our people well. He sent for me one day, told me he was nearly + out of provisions, and wished me to send my young men hunting to supply + his fort. I promised to do so, immediately returned to my camp and told my + young men the wishes and wants of the war chief. They readily agreed to go + and hurt for our friend and returned with plenty of deer. They carried + them to the fort, laid them down at the gate and returned to our camp. A + few days afterward I went again to the fort to see if they wanted any more + meat. The chief gave me powder and lead and said he wanted, me to send my + hunters out again. When I returned to camp, I told my young men that the + chief wanted more meat. Matatah, one of my principal braves, said he would + take a party and go across the Illinois, about one day's travel, where + game was plenty, and make a good hunt for our friend the war chief. He + took eight hunters with him, and his wife and several other squaws went + with them. They had travelled about half the day in the prairie when they + discovered a party of white men coming towards them with a drove of + cattle. Our hunters apprehended no danger or they would have kept out of + the way of the whites, who had not yet perceived them. Matatah changed his + course, as he wished to meet and speak to the whites. As soon as the + whites saw our party, some of them put off at full speed, and came up to + our hunters. Matatah gave up his gun to them, and endeavored to explain to + them that he was friendly and was hunting for the war chief. They were not + satisfied with this but fired at and wounded him. He got into the branches + of a tree that had blown down, to keep the horses from running over him. + He was again fired on several times and badly wounded. He, finding that he + would be murdered, and, mortally wounded already, sprang at the man + nearest him, seized his gun and shot him from his horse. He then fell, + covered with blood from his wounds, and immediately expired. The other + hunters being in the rear of Matatah attempted to escape, after seeing + their leader so basely murdered by the whites. They were pursued and + nearly all of the party killed. My youngest brother brought me the news in + the night, he having been with the party and was slightly wounded. He said + the whites had abandoned their cattle and gone back towards the + settlement. The rest of the night we spent in mourning for our friends. At + daylight I blacked my face and started for the fort to see the chief. I + met him at the gate and told him what had happened. His countenance + changed and I could see sorrow depicted in it for the death of my people. + He tried to persuade me that I was mistaken, as he could not believe that + the whites would act so cruelly. But when I convinced him, he said to me, + 'those cowards who murdered your people shall be punished.' I told him + that my people would have revenge, that they would not trouble any of his + people at the fort, as we did not blame him or any of his soldiers, but + that a party of my braves would go towards the Wabash to avenge the death + of their friends and relations. The next day I took a party of hunters, + killed several deer, and left them at the fort gate as I passed." + </p> + <p> + Here Gomo ended his story. I could relate many similar ones that have come + within my own knowledge and observation, but I dislike to look back and + bring on sorrow afresh. I will resume my narrative. + </p> + <p> + The great chief at St. Louis having sent word for us to come down and + confirm the treaty, we did not hesitate, but started immediately that we + might smoke the peace pipe with him. On our arrival we met the great + chiefs in council. They explained to us the words of our Great Father at + Washington, accusing us of heinous crimes and many misdemeanors, + particularly in not coming down when first invited. We knew very well that + our Great Father had deceived us and thereby forced us to join the + British, and could not believe that he had put this speech into the mouths + of those chiefs to deliver to us. I was not a civil chief and consequently + made no reply, but our civil chiefs told the commissioner that, "What you + say is a lie. Our Great Father sent us no such speech, he knew that the + situation in which we had been placed was caused by him." The white chiefs + appeared very angry at this reply and said, "We will break off the treaty + and make war against you, as you have grossly insulted us." + </p> + <p> + Our chiefs had no intention of insulting them and told them so, saying, + "we merely wish to explain that you have told us a lie, without any desire + to make you angry, in the same manner that you whites do when you do not + believe what is told you." The council then proceeded and the pipe of + peace was smoked. + </p> + <p> + Here for the first time, I touched the goose quill to the treaty not + knowing, however, that, by the act I consented to give away my village. + Had that been explained to me I should have opposed it and never would + have signed their treaty, as my recent conduct will clearly prove. + </p> + <p> + What do we know of the manners, the laws, and the customs of the white + people? They might buy our bodies for dissection, and we would touch the + goose quill to confirm it and not know what we were doing. This was the + case with me and my people in touching the goose quill for the first time. + </p> + <p> + We can only judge of what is proper and right by our standard of what is + right and wrong, which differs widely from the whites, if I have been + correctly informed. The whites may do wrong all their lives, and then if + they are sorry for it when about to die, all is well, but with us it is + different. We must continue to do good throughout our lives. If we have + corn and meat, and know of a family that have none, we divide with them. + If we have more blankets than we absolutely need, and others have not + enough, we must give to those who are in want. But I will presently + explain our customs and the manner in which we live. + </p> + <p> + We were treated friendly by the whites and started on our return to our + village on Rock river. When we arrived we found that the troops had come + to build a fort on Rock Island. This, in our opinion, was a contradiction + to what we had done—"to prepare for war in time of peace." We did + not object, however, to their building their fort on the island, but were + very sorry, as this was the best one on the Mississippi, and had long been + the resort of our young people during the summer. It was our garden, like + the white people have near their big villages, which supplied us with + strawberries, blackberries, gooseberries, plums, apples and nuts of + different kinds. Being situated at the foot of the rapids its waters + supplied us with the finest fish. In my early life I spent many happy days + on this island. A good spirit had charge of it, which lived in a cave in + the rocks immediately under the place where the fort now stands. This + guardian spirit has often been seen by our people. It was white, with + large wings like a swan's, but ten times larger. We were particular not to + make much noise in that part of the island which it inhabited, for fear of + disturbing it. But the noise at the fort has since driven it away, and no + doubt a bad spirit has taken its place. + </p> + <p> + Our village was situated on the north side of Rock river, at the foot of + the rapids, on the point of land between Rock river and the Mississippi. + </p> + <p> + In front a prairie extended to the Mississippi, and in the rear a + continued bluff gently ascended from the prairie. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BLACK HAWK'S TOWER. + </h2> + <p> + On its highest peak our Watch Tower was situated, from which we had a fine + view for many miles up and down Rock river, and in every direction. On the + side of this bluff we had our corn fields, extending about two miles up + parallel with the larger river, where they adjoined those of the Foxes, + whose village was on the same stream, opposite the lower end of Rock + Island, and three miles distant from ours. We had eight hundred acres in + cultivation including what we had on the islands in Rock river. The land + around our village which remained unbroken, was covered with blue-grass + which furnished excellent pasture for our horses. Several fine springs + poured out of the bluff near by, from which we were well supplied with + good water. The rapids of Rock river furnished us with an abundance of + excellent fish, and the land being very fertile, never failed to produce + good crops of corn, beans, pumpkins and squashes. We always had plenty; + our children never cried from hunger, neither were our people in want. + Here our village had stood for more than a hundred years, during all of + which time we were the undisputed possessors of the Mississippi valley, + from the Wisconsin to the Portage des Sioux, near the mouth of the + Missouri, being about seven hundred miles in length. + </p> + <p> + At this time we had very little intercourse with the whites except those + who were traders. Our village was healthy, and there was no place in the + country possessing such advantages, nor hunting grounds better than those + we had in possession. If a prophet had come to our village in those days + and told us that the things were to take place which have since come to + pass, none of our people would have believed him. What! to be driven from + our village, and our hunting grounds, and not even to be permitted to + visit the graves of our forefathers and relatives and our friends? + </p> + <p> + This hardship is not known to the whites. With us it is a custom to visit + the graves of our friends and keep them in repair for many years. The + mother will go alone to weep over the grave of her child. The brave, with + pleasure, visits the grave of his father, after he has been successful in + war, and repaints the post that marks where he lies. There is no place + like that where the bones of our forefathers lie to go to when in grief. + Here prostrate by the tombs of our fathers will the Great Spirit take pity + on us. + </p> + <p> + But how different is our situation now from what it was in those happy + days. Then were we as happy as the buffalo on the plains, but now, we are + as miserable as the hungry wolf on the prairie. But I am digressing from + my story. Bitter reflections crowd upon my mind and must find utterance. + </p> + <p> + When we returned to our village in the spring, from our wintering grounds, + we would finish bartering with our traders, who always followed us to our + village. We purposely kept some of our fine furs for this trade, and, as + there was great opposition among them, who should get these furs, we + always got our goods cheap. After this trade was met, the traders would + give us a few kegs of rum, which were generally promised in the fall, to + encourage us to make a good hunt and not go to war. They would then start + with their furs and peltries, for their homes, and our old men would take + a frolic. At this time our young men never drank. When this was ended, the + next thing to be done was to bury our dead; such as had died during the + year. This is a great medicine feast. The relations of those who have + died, give all the goods they have purchased, as presents to their + friends, thereby reducing themselves to poverty, to show the Great Spirit + that they are humble, so that he will take pity on them. We would next + open the caches, take out the corn and other provisions which had been put + up in the fall. We would then commence repairing our lodges. As soon as + this was accomplished, we repair the fences around our corn fields and + clean them off ready for planting. This work was done by the women. The + men during this time are feasting on dried venison, bear's meat, wild fowl + and corn prepared in different ways, while recounting to one another what + took place during the winter. + </p> + <p> + Our women plant the corn, and as soon as they are done we make a feast, at + which we dance the crane dance in which they join us, dressed in their + most gaudy attire, and decorated with feathers. At this feast the young + men select the women they wish to have for wives. He then informs his + mother, who calls on the mother of the girl, when the necessary + arrangements are made and the time appointed for him to come. He goes to + the lodge when all are asleep, or pretend to be, and with his flint and + steel strikes a light and soon finds where his intended sleeps. He then + awakens her, holds the light close to his face that she may know him, + after which he places the light close to her. If she blows it out the + ceremony is ended and he appears in the lodge next morning as one of the + family. If she does not blow out the light, but leaves it burning he + retires from the lodge. The next day he places himself in full view of it + and plays his flute. The young women go out one by one to see who he is + playing for. The tune changes to let them know he is not playing for them. + When his intended makes her appearance at the door, he continues his + courting tune until she returns to the lodge. He then quits playing and + makes another trial at night which mostly turns out favorable. During the + first year they ascertain whether they can agree with each other and be + happy, if not they separate and each looks for another companion. If we + were to live together and disagree, we would be as foolish as the whites. + No indiscretion can banish a woman from her parental lodge; no difference + how many children she may bring home she is always welcome—the + kettle is over the fire to feed them. + </p> + <p> + The crane dance often lasts two or three days. When this is over, we feast + again and have our national dance. The large square in the village is + swept and prepared for the purpose. The chiefs and old warriors take seats + on mats, which have been spread on the upper end of the square, next come + the drummers and singers, the braves and women form the sides, leaving a + large space in the middle. The drums beat and the singing commences. A + warrior enters the square keeping time with the music. He shows the manner + he started on a war party, how he approached the enemy, he strikes and + shows how he killed him. All join in the applause, and he then leaves the + square and another takes his place. Such of our young men have not been + out in war parties and killed in enemy stand back ashamed, not being + allowed to enter the square. I remember that I was ashamed to look where + our young men stood, before I could take my stand in the ring as a + warrior. + </p> + <p> + What pleasure it is to an old warrior, to see his son come forward and + relate his exploits. It makes him feel young, induces him to enter the + square and "fight his battles o'er again." + </p> + <p> + This national dance makes our warriors. When I was travelling last summer + on a steamboat on the river, going from New York to Albany, I was shown + the place where the Americans dance the war-dance, (West Point), where the + old warriors recount to their young men what they have done to stimulate + them to go and do likewise. This surprised me, as I did not think the + whites understood our way of making braves. + </p> + <p> + When our national dance is over, our cornfields hoed, every weed dug up + and our corn about knee high, all our young men start in a direction + toward sundown, to hunt deer and buffalo and to kill Sioux if any are + found on our hunting grounds. A part of our old men and women go to the + lead mines to make lead, and the remainder of our people start to fish and + get meat stuff. Every one leaves the village and remains away about forty + days. They then return, the hunting party bringing in dried buffalo and + deer meat, and sometimes Sioux scalps, when they are found trespassing on + our hunting grounds. At other times they are met by a party of Sioux too + strong for them and are driven in. If the Sioux have killed the Sacs last, + they expect to be retaliated upon and will fly before them, and so with + us. Each party knows that the other has a right to retaliate, which + induces those who have killed last to give way before their enemy, as + neither wishes to strike, except to avenge the death of relatives. All our + wars are instigated by the relations of those killed, or by aggressions on + our hunting grounds. The party from the lead mines brings lead, and the + others dried fish, and mats for our lodges. Presents are now made by each + party, the first giving to the others dried buffalo and deer, and they in + return presenting them lead, dried fish and mats. This is a happy season + of the year, having plenty of provisions, such as beans, squashes and + other produce; with our dried meat and fish, we continue to make feasts + and visit each other until our corn is ripe. Some lodge in the village a + feast daily to the Great Spirit. I cannot explain this so that the white + people will understand me, as we have no regular standard among us. + </p> + <p> + Every one makes his feast as he thinks best, to please the Great Spirit, + who has the care of all beings created. Others believe in two Spirits, one + good and one bad, and make feasts for the Bad Spirit, to keep him quiet. + They think that if they can make peace with him, the Good Spirit will not + hurt them. For my part I am of the opinion, that so far as we have reason, + we have a right to use it in determining what is right or wrong, and we + should always pursue that path which we believe to be right, believing + that "whatsoever is, is right." If the Great and Good Spirit wished us to + believe and do as the whites, he could easily change our opinions, so that + we could see, and think, and act as they do. We are nothing compared to + his power, and we feel and know it. We have men among us, like the whites, + who pretend to know the right path, but will not consent to show it + without pay. I have no faith in their paths, but believe that every man + must make his own path. + </p> + <p> + When our corn is getting ripe, our young people watch with anxiety for the + signal to pull roasting ears, as none dare touch them until the proper + time. When the corn is fit for use another great ceremony takes place, + with feasting and returning thanks to the Great Spirit for giving us Corn. + </p> + <p> + I will has relate the manner in which corn first came. According to + tradition handed down to our people, a beautiful woman was seen to descend + from the clouds, and alight upon the earth, by two of our ancestors who + had killed a deer, and were sitting by a fire roasting a part of it to + eat. They were astonished at seeing her, and concluded that she was hungry + and had smelt the meat. They immediately went to her, taking with them a + piece of the roasted venison. They presented it to her, she ate it, + telling them to return to the spot where she was sitting at the end of one + year, and they would find a reward for their kindness and generosity. She + then ascended to the clouds and disappeared. The men returned to their + village, and explained to the tribe what they had seen, done ad heard, but + were laughed at by their people. When the period had arrived for them to + visit this consecrated ground, where they were to find a reward for their + attention to the beautiful woman of the clouds, they went with a large + party, and found where her right hand had rested on the ground corn + growing, where the left hand had rested beans, and immediately where she + had been seated, tobacco. + </p> + <p> + The two first have ever since been cultivated by our people as our + principal provisions, and the last is used for smoking. The white people + have since found out the latter, and seem to it relish it as much as we + do, as they use it in different ways: Smoking, snuffing and chewing. + </p> + <p> + We thank the Great Spirit for all the good he has conferred upon us. For + myself, I never take a drink of water from a spring without being mindful + of his goodness. + </p> + <p> + We next have our great ball play, from three to five hundred on a side + play this game. We play for guns, lead, homes and blankets, or any other + kind of property we may have. The successful party takes the stakes, and + all return to our lodges with peace and friendship. We next commence horse + racing, and continue on, sport and feasting until the corn is secured. We + then prepare to leave our village for our hunting grounds. + </p> + <p> + The traders arrive and give us credit for guns, flints, powder, shot and + lead, and such articles as we want to clothe our families with and enable + us to hunt. We first, however, hold a council with them, to ascertain the + price they will give for our skins, and then they will charge us for the + goods. We inform them where we intend hunting, and tell them where to + build their houses. At this place we deposit a part of our corn, and leave + our old people. The traders have always been kind to them and relieved + them when in want, and consequently were always much respected by our + people, and never since we were a nation, has one of them been killed by + our people. + </p> + <p> + We then disperse in small parties to make our hunt, and as soon as it is + over, we return to our trader's establishment, with our skins, and remain + feasting, playing cards and at other pastimes until the close f the + winter. Our young men then start on the beaver hunt, others to hunt + raccoons and muskrats; the remainder of our people go to the sugar camps + to make sugar. All leave our encampment and appoint a place to meet on the + Mississippi, so that we may return together to our village in the spring. + We always spend our time pleasantly at the sugar camp. It being the season + for wild fowl, we lived well and always had plenty, when the hunters came + in that we might make a feast for them. After this is over we return to + our village, accompanied sometimes by our traders. In this way the time + rolled round happily. But these are times that were. + </p> + <p> + While on the subject of our manners and customs, it might be well to + relate an instance that occurred near our village just five years before + we left it for the last time. + </p> + <p> + In 1827, a young Sioux Indian got lost on the prairie, in a snow storm, + and found his way into a camp of the Sacs. According to Indian customs, + although he was an enemy, he was safe while accepting their hospitality. + He remained there for some time on account of the severity of the storm. Becoming + well acquainted he fell in love with the daughter of the Sac at whose + village he had been entertained, and before leaving for his own country, + promised to come to the Sac village for her at a certain time during the + approaching summer. In July he made his way to the Rock river village, + secreting himself in the woods until he met the object of his love, who + came out to the field with her mother to assist her in hoeing corn. Late + in the afternoon her mother left her and went to the village. No sooner + had she got out of hearing, than he gave a loud whistle which assured the + maiden that he had returned. She continued hoeing leisurely to the end of + the row, when her lover came to meet her, and she promised to come to him + as soon as she could go to the lodge and get her blanket, and together + they would flee to his country. But unfortunately for the lovers the + girl's two brothers had seen the meeting, and after procuring their guns + started in pursuit of them. A heavy thunderstorm was coming on at the + time. The lovers hastened to, and took shelter under a cliff of rocks, at + Black Hawk's watchtower. Soon after a loud peal of thunder was heard, the + cliff of rocks was shattered in a thousand pieces, and the lovers buried + beneath, while in full view of her pursuing brothers. This, their + unexpected tomb, still remains undisturbed. + </p> + <p> + This tower to which my name had been applied, was a favorite resort and + was frequently visited by me alone, when I could sit and smoke my pipe, + and look with wonder and pleasure, at the grand scenes that were presented + by the sun's rays, even across the mighty water. On one occasion a + Frenchman, who had been making his home in our village, brought his violin + with him to the tower, to play and dance for the amusement of a number of + our people, who had assembled there, and while dancing with his back to + the cliff accidentally fell over it and was killed by the fall. The + Indians say that always at the same time of the year, soft strains of the + violin can be heard near that spot. + </p> + <p> + On returning in the spring from oar hunting grounds, I had the pleasure of + meeting our old friend, the trader of Peoria, at Rock Island. He came up + in a boat from St. Louis, not as a trader, but as our Agent. We were well + pleased to see him. He told us that he narrowly escaped falling into the + hands of Dixon. He remained with us a short time, gave us good advice, and + then returned to St. Louis. + </p> + <p> + The Sioux having committed depredations on our people, we sent out war + parties that summer, who succeeded in killing fourteen. + </p> + <p> + I paid several visits to Fort Armstrong, at Rock Island, during the + summer, and was always well received by the gentlemanly officers stationed + there, who were distinguished for their bravery, and they never trampled + upon an enemy's rights. Colonel George Davenport resided near the + garrison, and being in connection with the American Fur Company, furnished + us the greater portion of our goods. We were not as happy then, in our + village, as formerly. Our people got more liquor from the small traders + than customary. I used all my influence to prevent drunkenness, but + without effect. As the settlements progressed towards us, we became worse + off and more unhappy. + </p> + <p> + Many of our people, instead of going to the old hunting grounds, when game + was plenty, would go near the settlements to hunt, and, instead of saving + their skins, to pay the trader for goods furnished them in the fall, would + sell them to the settlement for whisky, and return in the spring with + their families almost naked, and without the means of getting anything for + them. + </p> + <p> + About this time my eldest son was taken sick and died. He had always been + a dutiful child and had just grown to manhood. Soon after, my youngest + daughter, an interesting and affectionate child, died also. This was a + hard stroke, because I loved my children. In my distress I left the noise + of the village and built my lodge on a mound in the corn-field, and + enclosed it with a fence, around which I planted corn and beans. Here I + was with my family alone. I gave everything I had away, and reduced myself + to poverty. The only covering I retained was a piece of buffalo robe. I + blacked my face and resolved on fasting for twenty-four moons, for the + loss of my two children—drinking only of water during the day, and + eating sparingly of boiled corn at sunset. I fulfilled my promise, hoping + that the Great Spirit would take pity on me. + </p> + <p> + My nation had now some difficulty with the Iowas. Our young men had + repeatedly killed some of them, and the breaches had always been made up + by giving presents to the relations of those killed. But the last council + we had with them, we promised that in case any more of their people were + killed ours, instead of presents, we would give up the person or persons, + who had done the injury. We made this determination known to our people, + but notwithstanding this, one of our young men killed an Iowa the + following winter. + </p> + <p> + A party of our people were about starting for the Iowa village to give the + young man up, and I agreed to accompany them. When we were ready to start, + I called at the lodge for the young man to go with us. He was sick, but + willing to go, but his brother, however, prevented him and insisted on + going to die in his place, as he was unable to travel. We started, and on + the seventh day arrived in sight of the Iowa village, and within a short + distance of it we halted ad dismounted. We all bid farewell to our young + brave, who entered the village singing his death song, and sat down on the + square in the middle of the village. One of the Iowa chiefs came out to + us. We told him that we had fulfilled our promise, that we had brought the + brother of the young man who had killed one of his people—that he + had volunteered to come in his place, in consequence of his brother being + unable to travel from sickness. We had no further conversation but mounted + our horses and rode off. As we started I cast my eye toward the village, + and observed the Iowas coming out of their lodges with spears and war + clubs. We took the backward trail and travelled until dark—then + encamped and made a fire. We had not been there long before we heard the + sound of homes coming toward us. We seized our arms, but instead of an + enemy it was our young brave with two horses. He told me that after we had + left him, they menaced him with death for some time—then gave him + something to eat—smoked the pipe with him and made him a present of + the two horses and some goods, and started him after us. When we arrived + at on, village our people were much pleased, and for their noble and + generous conduct on this occasion, not one of the Iowa people has been + killed since by our nation. + </p> + <p> + That fall I visited Malden with several of my band, and was well treated + by the agent of our British Father, who gave us a variety of presents. He + also gave me a medal, and told me there never would be war between England + and America again; but for my fidelity to the British, during the war that + had terminated some time before, requested me to come with my band and get + presents every year, as Colonel Dixon had promised me. + </p> + <p> + I returned and hunted that winter on the Two Rivers. The whites were now + settling the country fast. I was out one day hunting in a bottom, and met + three white men. They accused me of killing their hogs. I denied it, but + they would not listen to me. One of them took my gun out of my hand and + fired it off—then took out the flint, gave it back to me and + commenced beating me with sticks, ordering me at the same time to be off. + I was so much bruised that I could not sleep for several nights. + </p> + <p> + Some time after this occurrence, one of my camp cut a bee tree and carried + the honey to his lodge. A party of white men soon followed him, and told + him the bee tree was theirs, and that he had no right to cut it. He + pointed to the honey and told them to take it. They were not satisfied + with this, but took all the packs of skins that he had collected during + the winter, to pay his trader and clothe his family with in the spring, + and carried them off. + </p> + <p> + How could we like a people who treated us so unjustly? We determined to + break up our camp for fear they would do worse, and when we joined our + people in the spring a great many of them complained of similar treatment. + </p> + <p> + This summer our agent came to live at Rock Island. He treated us well and + gave us good advice. I visited him and the trader very often during the + summer, and for the first time heard talk of our having to leave our + village. The trader, Colonel George Davenport, who spoke our language, + explained to me the terms of the treaty that had been made, and said we + would be obliged to leave the Illinois side of the Mississippi, and + advised us to select a good place for our village and remove to it in the + spring. He pointed out the difficulties we would have to encounter if we + remained at our village on Rock river. He had great influence with the + principal Fox chief, his adopted brother, Keokuk. He persuaded him to + leave his village, go to the west side of the Mississippi and build + another, which he did the spring following. Nothing was talked of but + leaving our village. Keokuk had been persuaded to consent to go, and was + using all his influence, backed by the war chief at Fort Armstrong and our + agent and trader at Rock Island, to induce others to go with him. He sent + the crier through our village, to inform our people that it was the wish + of our Great Father that we should remove to the west side of the + Mississippi, and recommended the Iowa river as a good place for the new + village. He wished his party to make such arrangements, before they + started on their winter's hunt, an to preclude the necessity of their + returning to the village in the spring. + </p> + <p> + The party opposed to removing called on me for my opinion. I gave it + freely, and after questioning Quashquame about the sale of our lands, he + assured me that he "never had consented to the sale of our village." I now + promised this party to be the leader, and raised the standard of + opposition to Keokuk, with a full determination not to leave our village. + I had an interview with Keokuk, to see if this difficulty could not be + settled with our Great Father, and told him to propose to give any other + land that our Great Father might choose, even our lead mines, to be + peaceably permitted to keep the small point of land on which our village + was situated. I was of the opinion that the white people had plenty of + land and would never take our village from us. Keokuk promised to make an + exchange if possible, and applied to our agent, and the great chief at St. + Louis, who had charge of all the agents, for permission to go to + Washington for that purpose. + </p> + <p> + This satisfied us for a time. We started to our hunting grounds with good + hopes that something would be done for us. Doing the winter I received + information that three families of whites had come to our village and + destroyed some of our lodges, were making fences and dividing our + cornfields for their own use. They were quarreling among themselves about + their lines of division. I started immediately for Rock river, a distance + of ten days' travel, and on my arrival found the report true. I went to my + lodge and saw a family occupying it. I wished to talk to them but they + could not understand me. I then went to Rock Island; the agent being + absent, I told the interpreter what I wanted to say to these people, viz: + "Not to settle on our lands, nor trouble our fences, that there was plenty + of land in the country for them to settle upon, and that they must leave + our village, as we were coming back to it in the spring." The interpreter + wrote me a paper, I went back to the village and showed it to the + intruders, but could not understand their reply. I presumed, however, that + they would remove as I expected them to. I returned to Rock Island, passed + the night there and had a long conversation with the trader. He advised me + to give up and make my village with Keokuk on the Iowa river. I told him + that I would not. The next morning I crossed the Mississippi on very bad + ice, but the Great Spirit had made it strong, that I might pass over safe. + I traveled three days farther to see the Winnebago sub-agent and converse + with him about our difficulties. He gave no better news than the trader + had done. I then started by way of Rock river, to see the Prophet, + believing that he as a man of great knowledge. When we met, I explained to + him everything as it was. He at once agreed that I was right, and advised + me never to give up our village, for the whites to plow up the bones of + our people. He said, that if we remained at our village, the whites would + not trouble us, and advised me to get Keokuk, and the party that consented + to go with him to the Iowa in the spring, to return and remain at our + village. + </p> + <p> + I returned to my hunting ground, after an absence of one moon, and related + what I had done. In a short time we came up to our village, and found that + the whites had not left it, but that others had come, and that the greater + part of our cornfields had been enclosed. When we landed the whites + appeared displeased because we came back. We repaired the lodges that hid + been left standing and built others. Keokuk came to the village, but his + object was to persuade others to follow him to the Iowa. He had + accomplished nothing towards making arrangements for us to remain, or to + exchange other lands for our village. There was no more friendship + existing between us. I looked upon him as a coward and no brave, to + abandon his village to be occupied by strangers. What right had these + people to our village, and our fields, which the Great Spirit had given us + to live upon? + </p> + <p> + My reason teaches me that land cannot be sold. The Great Spirit gave it to + his children to live upon and cultivate as far as necessary for their + subsistence, and so long as they occupy and cultivate it they have the + right to the soil, but if they voluntarily leave it, then any other people + have a right to settle on it. Nothing can be sold but such things as can + be carried away. + </p> + <p> + In consequence of the improvements of the intruders on our fields, we + found considerable difficulty to get ground to plant a little corn. Some + of the whites permitted us to plant small patches in the fields they had + fenced, keeping all the best ground for themselves. Our women had great + difficulty in climbing their fences, being unaccustomed to the kind, and + were ill treated if they left a rail down. + </p> + <p> + One of my old friends thought he was safe. His cornfield was on a small + island in Rock river. He planted his corn, it came up well, but the white + man saw it; he wanted it, and took his teams over, ploughed up the crop + and replanted it for himself. The old man shed tears, not for himself but + on account of the distress his family would be in if they raised no corn. + The white people brought whisky to our village, made our people drink, and + cheated them out of their homes, guns and traps. This fraudulent system + was carried to such an extent that I apprehended serious difficulties + might occur, unless a stop was put to it. Consequently I visited all the + whites and begged them not to sell my people whisky. One of them continued + the practice openly; I took a party of my young men, went to his house, + took out his barrel, broke in the head and poured out the whisky. I did + this for fear some of 'the whites might get killed by my people when they + were drunk. + </p> + <p> + Our people were treated very badly by the whites on many occasions. At one + time a white man beat one of our women cruelly, for pulling a few suckers + of corn out of his field to suck when she was hungry. At another time one + of our young men was beat with clubs by two white men, for opening a fence + which crossed our road to take his horse through. His shoulder blade was + broken and his body badly braised, from the effects of which he soon after + died. + </p> + <p> + Bad and cruel as our people were treated by the whites, not one of them + was hurt or molested by our band. I hope this will prove that we are a + peaceable people—having permitted ten men to take possession of our + corn fields, prevent us from planting corn, burn our lodges, ill-treat our + women, and beat to death our men without offering resistance to their + barbarous cruelties. This is a lesson worthy for the white man to learn: + to use forebearance when injured. + </p> + <p> + We acquainted our agent daily with our situation, and through him the + great chief at St. Louis, and hoped that something would be done for us. + The whites were complaining at the same time that we were intruding upon + their rights. They made it appear that they were the injured party, and we + the intruders. They called loudly to the great war chief to protect their + property. + </p> + <p> + How smooth must be the language of the whites, when they can make right + look like wrong, and wrong like right. + </p> + <p> + During this summer I happened at Rock Island, when a great chief arrived, + whom I had known as the great chief of Illinois, (Governor Cole) in + company with another chief who I have been told is a great writer (judge + James Hall.) I called upon them and begged to explain the grievances to + them, under which my people and I were laboring, hoping that they could do + something for us. The great chief however, did not seem disposed to + council with, me. He said he was no longer the chief of Illinois; that his + children had selected another father in his stead, and that he now only + ranked as they did. I was surprised at this talk, as I had always heard + that he was a good brave and great chief. But the white people appear to + never be satisfied. When they get a good father, they hold councils at the + suggestion of some bad, ambitious man, who wants the place himself, and + conclude among themselves that this man, or some other equally ambitious, + would make a better father than they have, and nine times out of ten they + don't get as good a one again. + </p> + <p> + I insisted on explaining to these chiefs the true situation of my people. + They gave their assent. I rose and made a speech, in which I explained to + them the treaty made by Quashquame, and three of our braves, according to + the manner the trader and others had explained it to me. I then told them + that Quashquame and his party positively denied having ever sold my + village, and that as I had never known them to lie, I was determined to + keep it in possession. + </p> + <p> + I told them that the white people had already entered our village, burned + our lodges, destroyed on, fences, ploughed up our corn and beat our + people. They had brought whisky into our country, made our people drunk, + and taken from them their homes, guns and traps, and that I had borne all + this injury, without suffering any of my braves to raise a hand against + the whites. + </p> + <p> + My object in holding this council was to get the opinion of these two + chiefs as to the best course for me to pursue. I had appealed in vain, + time after time to our agent, who regularly represented our situation to + the chief at St. Louis, whose duty it was to call upon the Great Father to + have justice done to us, but instead of this we are told that the white + people wanted our county and we must leave it for them! + </p> + <p> + I did not think it possible that our Great Father wished us to leave our + village where we had lived so long, and where the bones of so many of our + people had been laid. The great chief said that as he no longer had any + authority he could do nothing for us, and felt sorry that it was not in + his power to aid us, nor did he know how to advise us. Neither of them + could do anything for us, but both evidently were very sorry. It would + give e great pleasure at all times to take these two chiefs by the hand. + </p> + <p> + That fall I paid a visit to the agent before we started to our hunting + grounds, to hear if he had any good news for me. He had news. He said that + the land on which our village now stood was ordered to be sold to + individuals, and that when sold our right to remain by treaty would be at + an end, and that if we returned next spring we would be forced to remove. + </p> + <p> + We learned during the winter, that part of the land where our village + stood had been sold to individuals, and that the trader at Rock Island, + Colonel Davenport, had bought the greater part that had been sold. The + reason was now plain to me why he urged us to remove. His object, we + thought, was to get our lands. We held several councils that winter to + determine what we should do. We resolved in one of them, to return to our + village as usual in the spring. We concluded that if we were removed by + force, that the trader, agent and others must be the cause, and that if + they were found guilty of having driven us from our village they should be + killed. The trader stood foremost on this list. He had purchased the land + on which my lodge stood, and that of our graveyard also. We therefore + proposed to kill him and the agent, the interpreter, the great chief at + St. Louis, the war chiefs at Forts Armstrong, Rock Island and Keokuk, + these being the principal persons to blame for endeavoring to remove us. + Our women received bad accounts from the women who had been raising corn + at the new village, of the difficulty of breaking the new prairie with + hoes, and the small quantity of corn raised. We were nearly in the same + condition with regard to the latter, it being the first time I ever knew + our people to be in want of provisions. + </p> + <p> + I prevailed upon some of Keokuk's band to return this spring to the Rock + river village, but Keokuk himself would not come. I hoped that he would + get permission to go to Washington to settle our affairs with our Great + Father. I visited the agent at Rock Island. He was displeased because we + had returned to our village, and told me that we must remove to the west + of the Mississippi. I told him plainly that we would not. I visited the + interpreter at his house, who advised me to do as the agent had directed + me. I then went to see the trader and upbraided him for buying our lands. + He said that if he had not purchased them some person else would, and that + if our Great Father would make an exchange with us, he would willingly + give up the land he had purchased to the government. This I thought was + fair, and began to think that he had not acted so badly as I had + suspected. We again repaired our lodges and built others, as most of our + village had been burnt and destroyed. Our women selected small patches to + plant corn, where the whites had not taken them in their fences, and + worked hard to raise something for our children to subsist upon. + </p> + <p> + I was told that according to the treaty, we had no right to remain on the + lands sold, and that the government would force us to leave them. There + was but a small portion however that had been sold, the balance remaining + in the hands of the government. We claimed the right, if we had no other, + to "live and hunt upon it as long as it remained the property of the + government," by a stipulation in the treaty that required us to evacuate + it after it had been sold. This was the land that we wished to inhabit and + thought we had a right to occupy. + </p> + <p> + I heard that there was a great chief on the Wabash, and sent a party to + get his advice. They informed him that we had not sold our village. He + assured them then, that if we had not sold the land on which our village + stood, our Great Father would not take it from us. + </p> + <p> + I started early to Malden to see the chief of my British Father, and told + him my story. He gave the same reply that the chief on the Wabash had + given, and in justice to him I must say he never gave me any bad advice, + but advised me to apply to our American Father, who, he said, would do us + justice. I next called on the great chief at Detroit and made the same + statement to him that I had made to the chief of our British Father. He + gave me the same reply. He said if we had not sold our lands, and would + remain peaceably on them, that we would not be disturbed. This assured me + that I was right, and determined me to hold out as I had promised my + people. I returned from Malden late in the fall. My people were gone to + their hunting ground, whither I followed. Here I learned that they had + been badly treated all summer by the whites, and that a treaty had been + held at Prairie du Chien. Keokuk and some of our people attended it, and + found that our Great Father had exchanged a small strip of the land that + had been ceded by Quashquame and his party, with the Pottowattomies for a + portion of their lead near Chicago. That the object of this treaty was to + get it back again, and that the United States had agreed to give them + sixteen thousand dollars a year, forever for this small strip of land, it + being less than a twentieth part of that taken from our nation for one + thousand dollars a year. This bears evidence of something I cannot + explain. This land they say belonged to the United States. What reason + then, could have induced them to exchange it with the Pottowattomies if it + was so valuable? Why not keep it? Or if they found they had made a bad + bargain with the Pottowattomies, why not take back their land at a fair + proportion of what they gave our nation for it! If this small portion of + the land that they took from us for one thousand dollars a year, be worth + sixteen thousand dollars a year forever to the Pottowattomies, then the + whole tract of country taken from us ought to be worth, to our nation, + twenty times as much a this small fraction. + </p> + <p> + Here I was again puzzled to find out how the white people reasoned, and + began to doubt whether they had any standard of right and wrong. + </p> + <p> + Communication was kept up between myself and the Prophet. Runners were + sent to the Arkansas, Red river and Texas, not on the subject of our + lands, but on a secret mission, which I am not at present permitted to + explain. + </p> + <p> + It was related to me that the chiefs and head men of the Foxes had been + invited to Prairie du Chien, to hold a Council for the purpose of settling + the difficulties existing between them and the Sioux. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The chiefs and head men, amounting to nine, started for the place +designated, taking with them one woman, and were met by the Menonomees +and Sioux, near the Wisconsin and killed, all except one man. Having +understood that the whole matter was published shortly after it +occurred, and is known to the white people, I will say no more about it. + + I would here remark, that our pastimes and sports had been laid aside +for two years. We were a divided people, forming two parties. Keokuk +being at the head of one, willing to barter our rights merely for the +good opinion of the whites, and cowardly enough to desert our village +to them. I was at the head of the other division, and was determined to +hold on to my village, although I had been ordered to leave it. But, I +considered, as myself and band had no agency in selling our county, and +that, as provision had been made in the treaty, for us all to remain +on it as long as it belonged to the United States, that we could not be +forced away. I refused therefore to quit my village. It was here that I +was born, and here lie the bones of many friends and relations. For +this spot I felt a sacred reverence, and never could consent to leave it +without being forced therefrom. +</pre> + <p> + When I called to mind the scenes of my youth and those of later days, when + I reflected that the theatre on which these were acted, had been so long + the home of my fathers, who now slept on the hills around it, I could not + bring my mind to consent to leave this country to the whites for any + earthly consideration. + </p> + <p> + The winter passed off in gloom. We made a bad hunt for want of guns, traps + and other necessaries which the whites had taken from our people for + whisky. The prospect before me was a bad one. I fasted and called upon the + Great Spirit to direct my steps to the right path. I was in great sorrow + because all the whites with whom I was acquainted and had been on terms of + intimacy, advised me contrary to my wishes, that I began to doubt whether + I had a friend among them. + </p> + <p> + Keokuk, who has a smooth tongue, and is a great speaker, was busy in + persuading my band that I was wrong, and thereby making many of them + dissatisfied with me. I had one consolation, for all the women were on my + side on account of their cornfields. + </p> + <p> + On my arrival again at my village, with my band increased, I found it + worse than before. I visited Rock Island and the agent again ordered me to + quit my village. He said that if we did not, troops would be sent to drive + us off. He reasoned with me and told me it would be better for us to be + with the rest of our people, so that we might avoid difficulty and live in + peace. The interpreter joined him and gave me so many good reasons that I + almost wished I had not undertaken the difficult task I had pledged myself + to my brave band to perform. In this mood I called upon the trader, who is + fond of talking, and had long been my friend, but now amongst those who + advised me to give up my village. He received me very friendly and went on + to defend Keokuk in what he had done, endeavoring to show me that I was + bringing distress on our women and children. He inquired if some terms + could not be made that would be honorable to me and satisfactory to my + braves, for us to remove to the west side of the Mississippi. I replied + that if our Great Father could do us justice and make the proposition, I + could then give up honorably. He asked me "if the great chief at St. Louis + would give us six thousand dollars to purchase provisions and other + articles, if I would give up peaceably and remove to the west side of the + Mississippi?" After thinking some time I agreed that I could honorably + give up, being paid for it, according to our customs, but told him that I + could not make the proposal myself, even if I wished, because it would be + dishonorable in me to do so. He said that he would do it by sending word + to the great chief at St. Louis that he could remove us peaceably for the + amount stated, to the west side of the Mississippi. A steamboat arrived at + the island during my stay. After its departure the trader told me that he + had requested a war chief, who was stationed at Galena, and was on board + the steamboat, to make the offer to the great chief at St. Louis, and that + he would soon be back and bring his answer. I did not let my people know + what had taken place for fear they would be displeased. I did not much + like what had been done myself, and tried to banish it from my mind. + </p> + <p> + After a few days had passed the war chief returned and brought an answer + that "the great chief at St. Louis would give us nothing, and that if we + did not remove immediately we would be driven off." + </p> + <p> + I was not much displeased with the answer they brought me, because I would + rather have laid my bones with those of my forefathers than remove for any + consideration. Yet if a friendly offer had been made as I expected, I + would, for the sake of our women and children have removed peaceably. + </p> + <p> + I now resolved to remain in my village, and make no resistance if the + military came, but submit to my fate. I impressed the importance of this + course on all my band, and directed them in case the military came not to + raise an arm against them. + </p> + <p> + About this time our agent was put out of office, for what reason I could + never ascertain. I then thought it was for wanting to make us leave our + village and if so it was right, because I was tired of hearing him talk + about it. The interpreter, who had been equally as bad in trying to + persuade us to leave our village was retained in office, and the young man + who took the place of our agent, told the same old story over about + removing us. I was then satisfied that this could not have been the cause. + </p> + <p> + Our women had planted a few patches of corn which was growing finely, and + promised a subsistence for our children, but the white people again + commenced ploughing it up. I now determined to put a stop to it by + clearing our county of the intruders. I went to their principal men and + told them that they should and must leave our country, giving them until + the middle of the next day to remove. The worst left within the time + appointed, but the one who remained, represented that his family, which + was large, would be in a starving condition, if he went and left his crop. + He promised to behave well, if I would consent to let him remain until + fall, in order to secure his crop. He spoke reasonably and I consented. + </p> + <p> + We now resumed some of our games and pastimes, having been assured by the + prophet that we would not be removed. But in a little while it was + ascertained that a great war chief, General Gaines, was on his way to Rock + river with a great number of soldiers. I again called upon the prophet, + who requested a little time to see into the matter. Early next morning he + came to me and said he had been dreaming; that he saw nothing bad in this + great war chief, General Gaines, who was now near Rock river. That his + object was merely to frighten us from our village, that the white people + might get our land for nothing. He assured us that this great war chief + dare not, and would not, hurt any of us. That the Americans were at peace + with the British, and when they made peace, the British required, and the + Americans agreed to it, that they should never interrupt any nation of + Indians that was at peace, and that all we had to do to retain our village + was to refuse any and every offer that might be made by this war chief. + </p> + <p> + The war chief arrived and convened a council at the agency. Keokuk and + Wapello were sent for, and with a number of their band were present. + </p> + <p> + The council house was opened and all were admitted, and myself and band + were sent for to attend. When we arrived at the door singing a war song, + and armed with lances, spears, war clubs, bows and arrows, as if going to + battle, I halted and refused to enter, as I could see no necessity or + propriety in having the room crowded with those who were already there. If + the council was convened for us, why then have others in our room. The war + chief having sent all out except Keokuk, Wapello and a few of their chiefs + and braves, we entered the council in this warlike appearance, being + desirous of showing the war chief that we were not afraid. He then rose + and made a speech. He said: + </p> + <p> + "The president is very sorry to be put to the trouble and expense of + sending so large a body of soldiers here to remove you from the lands you + have long since ceded to the United States. Your Great Father has already + warned you repeatedly, through your agent, to leave the country, and he is + very sorry to find that you have disobeyed his orders. Your Great Father + wishes you well, and asks nothing from you but what is reasonable and + right. I hope you will consult your own interests, and leave the country + you are occupying, and go to the other side of the Mississippi." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I replied: +</pre> + <p> + "We have never sold our country. We never received any annuities from our + American father, and we are determined to hold on to our village." + </p> + <p> + The war chief, apparently angry, rose and said + </p> + <p> + "Who is <i>Black Hawk</i>? Who is <i>Black Hawk</i>?" + </p> + <p> + I replied: + </p> + <p> + "I am a <i>Sac</i>! My forefather was a SAC! I and all the nations call me + a SAC!!" + </p> + <p> + The war chief said: + </p> + <p> + "I came here neither to beg nor hire you to leave your village. My + business is to remove you, peaceably if I can, forcibly if I must! I will + now give you two days in which to remove, and if you do not cross the + Mississippi by that time, I will adopt measures to force you away." + </p> + <p> + I told him that I never would consent to leave my village and was + determined not to leave it. + </p> + <p> + The council broke up and the war chief retired to his fort. I consulted + the prophet again. He said he had been dreaming, and that the Great Spirit + had directed that a woman, the daughter of Mattatas, the old chief of the + village, should take a stick in her hand and go before the war chief, and + tell him that she is the daughter of Mattatas, and that he had always been + the white man's friend. That he had fought their battles, been wounded in + their service and had always spoken well of them, and she had never heard + him say that he had sold their village. The whites are numerous, and can + take it from us if they choose, but she hoped they would not be so + unfriendly. If they were, he had one favor to ask; she wished her people + to be allowed to remain long enough to gather their provisions now growing + in their fields; that she was a woman and had worked hard to raise + something to support her children. And now, if we are driven from our + village without being allowed to save our corn, many of our little + children must perish with hunger. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly Mattatas' daughter was sent to the fort, accompanied by + several of our young men and was admitted. She went before the war chief + and told the story of the prophet. The war chief said that the president + did not send him here to make treaties with the women, nor to hold council + with them. That our young men most leave the fort, but she might remain if + she wished. + </p> + <p> + All our plans were defeated. We must cross the river, or return to our + village and await the coming of the war chief with his soldiers. We + determined on the latter, but finding that our agent, interpreter, trader + and Keokuk, were determined on breaking my ranks, and had induced several + of my warriors to cross the Mississippi, I sent a deputation to the agent, + at the request of my band, pledging myself to leave the county in the + fall, provided permission was given us to remain, and secure our crop of + corn then growing, as we would be in a starving situation if we were + driven off without the means of subsistence. + </p> + <p> + The deputation returned with an answer from the war chief, "That no + further time would be given than that specified, and if we were not then + gone he would remove us." + </p> + <p> + I directed my village crier to proclaim that my orders were, in the event + of the war chief coming to our village to remove us, that not a gun should + be fired or any resistance offered. That if he determined to fight, for + them to remain quietly in their lodges, and let him kill them if he chose. + </p> + <p> + I felt conscious that this great war chief would not hurt our people, and + my object was not war. Had it been, we would have attacked and killed the + war chief and his braves, when in council with us, as they were then + completely in our power. But his manly conduct and soldierly deportment, + his mild yet energetic manner, which proved his bravery, forbade it. + </p> + <p> + Some of our young men who had been out as spies came in and reported that + they had discovered a large body of mounted men coming toward our village, + who looked like a war party. They arrived and took a position below Rock + river, for their place of encampment. The great war chief, General Gaines, + entered Rock river in a steamboat, with his soldiers and one big gun. They + passed and returned close by our village, but excited no alarm among my + braves. No attention was paid to the boat; even our little children who + were playing on the bank of the river, as usual, continued their + amusement. The water being shallow, the boat got aground, which gave the + whites some trouble. If they had asked for assistance, there was not a + brave in my band who would not willingly have aided them. Their people + were permitted to pass and repass through our village, and were treated + with friendship by our people. + </p> + <p> + The war chief appointed the next day to remove us. I would have remained + and been taken prisoner by the regulars, but was afraid of the multitude + of pale faced militia, who were on horse back, as they were under no + restraint of their chiefs. + </p> + <p> + We crossed the river during the night, and encamped some distance below + Rock Island. The great war chief convened another council, for the purpose + of making a treaty with us. In this treaty he agreed to give us corn in + place of that we had left growing in our fields. I touched the goose quill + to this treaty, and was determined to live in peace. + </p> + <p> + The corn that had been given us was soon found to be inadequate to our + wants, when loud lamentations were heard in the camp by the women and + children, for their roasting ears, beans and squashes. To satisfy them, a + small party of braves went over in the night to take corn from their own + fields. They were discovered by the whites and fired upon. Complaints were + again made of the depredations committed by some of my people, on their + own corn fields. + </p> + <p> + I understood from our agent, that there had been a provision made in one + of our treaties for assistance in agriculture, and that we could have our + fields plowed if we required it. I therefore called upon him, and + requested him to have a small log home built for me, and a field plowed + that fall, as I wished to live retired. He promised to have it done. I + then went to the trader, Colonel Davenport, and asked for permission to be + buried in the graveyard at our village, among my old friends and warriors, + which he gave cheerfully. I then returned to my people satisfied. + </p> + <p> + A short time after this, a party of Foxes went up to Prairie du Chien to + avenge the murder of their chiefs and relations, which had been committed + the summer previous, by the Menomonees and Sioux. When they arrived in the + vicinity of the encampment of the Menomonees, they met with a Winnebago, + and inquired for the Menomonee camp. They requested him to go on before + them and see if there were any Winnebagoes in it, and if so, to tell them + that they had better return to their own camp. He went and gave the + information, not only to the Winnebagoes, but to the Menomonees, that they + might be prepared. The party soon followed, killed twenty-eight + Menomonees, and made their escape. + </p> + <p> + This retaliation which with us is considered lawful and right, created + considerable excitement among the whites. A demand was made for the Foxes + to be surrendered to, and tried by, the white people. The principal men + came to me during the fall and asked my advice. I conceived that they had + done right, and that our Great Father acted very unjustly in demanding + them, when he had suffered all their chiefs to be decoyed away, and + murdered by the Menomonees, without ever having made a similar demand of + them. If he had no right in the first instance he had none now, and for my + part, I conceived the right very questionable, if not an act of usurpation + in any case, where a difference exists between two nations, for him to + interfere. The Foxes joined my band with the intention to go out with them + on the fall hunt. + </p> + <p> + About this time, Neapope, who started to Malden when it was ascertained + that the great war chief, General Gaines, was coming to remove us, + returned. He said he had seen the chief of our British Father, and asked + him if the Americans could force us to leave our village. He said: "If you + had not sold your land the Americans could not take your village from you. + That the right being vested in you only, could be transferred by the voice + and will of the whole nation, and that as you have never given your + consent to the sale of your country, it yet remains your exclusive + property, from which the American government never could force you away, + and that in the event of war, you should have nothing to fear, as we would + stand by and assist you." + </p> + <p> + He said that he had called at the prophet's lodge on his way down, and + there had learned for the first time, that we had left our village. He + informed me privately, that the prophet was anxious to see me, as he had + much good news to tell me, and that I would hear good news in the spring + from our British Father. "The prophet requested me to give you all the + particulars, but I would much rather you would see him yourself and learn + all from him. But I will tell you that he has received expresses from our + British Father, who says that he is going to send us guns, ammunition, + provisions and clothing early in the spring. The vessels that bring them + will come by way of Milwaukee. The prophet has likewise received wampum + and tobacco from the different nations on the lakes, Ottawas, Chippewas, + and Pottowattomies, and as to the Winnebagoes he has them all at his + command. We are going to be happy once more." + </p> + <p> + I told him I was pleased that our British Father intended to see us + righted. That we had been driven from our lands without receiving anything + for them, and I now began to hope from his talk, that my people would once + more be happy. If I could accomplish this I would be satisfied. I am now + growing old and could spend the remnant of my time anywhere. But I wish + first to see my people happy. I can then leave them cheerfully. This has + always been my constant aim, and I now begin to hope that our sky will + soon be clear. + </p> + <p> + Neapope said: + </p> + <p> + "The prophet told me that all the tribes mentioned would fight for us if + necessary, and the British father will support us. If we should be + whipped, which is hardly possible, we will still be safe, the prophet + having received a friendly talk from the chief of Wassicummico, at + Selkirk's settlement, telling him, that if we were not happy in our own + country, to let him know and he would make us happy. He had received + information from our British father that we had been badly treated by the + Americans. We must go and see the prophet. I will go first; you had better + remain and get as many of your people to join you as you can. You know + everything that we have done. We leave the matter with you to arrange + among your people as you please. I will return to the prophet's village + to-morrow. You can in the meantime make up your mind an to the course you + will take and send word to the prophet by me, as he is anxious to assist + us, and wishes to know whether you will join us, and assist to make your + people happy." + </p> + <p> + During the night I thought over everything that Neapope had told me, and + was pleased to think that by a little exertion on my part, I could + accomplish the object of all my wishes. I determined to follow the advice + of the prophet, and sent word by Neapope, that I would get all my braves + together, explain everything that I had heard to them, and recruit as many + as I could from the different villages. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly I sent word to Keokuk's band and the Fox tribe, explaining to + them all the good news I had heard. They would not hear. Keokuk said that + I had been imposed upon by liars, and had much better remain where I was + and keep quiet. When he found that I was determined to make an attempt to + recover my village, fearing that some difficulty would arise, he made + application to the agent and great chief at St. Louis, asking permission + for the chiefs of our nation to go to Washington to see our Great Father, + that we might have our difficulties settled amicably. Keokuk also + requested the trader, Colonel Davenport, who was going to Washington, to + call on our Great Father and explain everything to him, and ask permission + for us to come on and see him. + </p> + <p> + Having heard nothing favorable from the great chief at St. Louis, I + concluded that I had better keep my band together, and recruit as many as + possible, so that I would be prepared to make the attempt to rescue my + village in the spring, provided our Great Father did not send word for us + to go to Washington. The trader returned. He said he had called on our + Great Father and made a full statement to him in relation to our + difficulties, and had asked leave for us to go to Washington, but had + received no answer. + </p> + <p> + I had determined to listen to the advice of my friends, and if permitted + to go to see our Great Father, to abide by his counsel, whatever it might + be. Every overture was made by Keokuk to prevent difficulty, and I + anxiously hoped that something would be done for my people that it might + be avoided. But there was bad management somewhere, or the difficulty that + has taken place would have been avoided. + </p> + <p> + When it was ascertained that we would not be permitted to go to + Washington, I resolved upon my course, and again tied to recruit some + braves from Keookuk's band, to accompany me, but could not. + </p> + <p> + Conceiving that the peaceable disposition of Keokuk and his people had + been in a great measure the cause of our having been driven from our + village, I ascribed their present feelings to the same cause, and + immediately went to work to recruit all my own band, and making + preparations to ascend Rock river, I made my encampment on the + Mississippi, where Fort Madison had stood. I requested my people to + rendezvous at that place, sending out soldiers to bring in the warriors, + and stationed my sentinels in a position to prevent any from moving off + until all were ready. + </p> + <p> + My party having all come in and got ready, we commenced our march up the + Mississippi; our women and children in canoes, carrying such provisions as + we had, camp equipage, &c. My braves and warriors were on horseback, + armed and equipped for defence. The prophet came down and joining us below + Rock river, having called at Rock Island on his way down, to consult the + war chief, agent and trader; who, he said, used many arguments to dissuade + him from going with us, requesting him to come and meet us and turn us + back. They told him also there was a war chief on his way to Rock Island + with a large body of soldiers. + </p> + <p> + The prophet said he would not listen to this talk, because no war chief + would dare molest us so long as we were at peace. That we had a right to + go where we pleased peaceably, and advised me to say nothing to my braves + and warriors until we encamped that night. We moved onward until we + arrived at the place where General Gaines had made his encampment the year + before, and encamped for the night. The prophet then addressed my braves + and warriors. He told them to "follow us and act like braves, and we have + nothing to fear and much to gain. The American war chief may come, but + will not, nor dare not interfere with us so long as we act peaceably. We + are not yet ready to act otherwise. We must wait until we ascend Rock + river and receive our reinforcements, and we will then be able to + withstand any army." + </p> + <p> + That night the White Beaver, General Atkinson, with a party of soldiers + passed up in a steamboat. Our party became alarmed, expecting to meet the + soldiers at Rock river, to prevent us going up. On our arrival at its + mouth, we discovered that the steamboat had passed on. + </p> + <p> + I was fearful that the war chief had stationed his men on some high bluff, + or in some ravine, that we might be taken by surprise. Consequently, on + entering Rock river we commenced beating our drums and singing, to show + the Americans that we were not afraid. + </p> + <p> + Having met with no opposition, we moved up Rock river leisurely for some + distance, when we were overtaken by an express from White Beaver, with an + order for me to return with my band and recross the Mississippi again. I + sent him word that I would not, not recognizing his right to make such a + demand, is I was acting peaceably, and intended to go to the prophet's + village at his request, to make corn. + </p> + <p> + The express returned. We moved on and encamped some distance below the + prophet's village. Here another express came from the White Beaver, + threatening to pursue us and drive us back, if we did not return + peaceably. This message roused the spirit of my band, and all were + determined to remain with me and contest the ground with the war chief, + should he come and attempt to drive us. We therefore directed the express + to say to the war chief "if he wished to fight us he might come on." We + were determined never to be driven, and equally so, not to make the first + attack, our object being to act only on the defensive. This we conceived + to be our right. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the express returned, Mr. Gratiot, sub-agent for the + Winnebagoes, came to our encampment. He had no interpreter, and was + compelled to talk through his chiefs. They said the object of his mission + was to persuade us to return. But they advised us to go on—assuring + us that the further we went up Rock river the more friends we would meet, + and our situation would be bettered. They were on our side and all of + their people were our friends. We must not give up, but continue to ascend + Rock river, on which, in a short time, we would receive reinforcements + sufficiently strong to repulse any enemy. They said they would go down + with their agent, to ascertain the strength of the enemy, and then return + and give us the news. They had to use some stratagem to deceive their + agent in order to help us. + </p> + <p> + During this council several of my braves hoisted the British flag, mounted + their horses and surrounded the council lodge. I discovered that the agent + was very much frightened. I told one of his chiefs to tell him that he + need not be alarmed, and then went out and directed my braves to desist. + Every warrior immediately dismounted and returned to his lodge. After the + council adjourned I placed a sentinel at the agent's lodge to guard him, + fearing that some of my warriors might again frighten him. I had always + thought he was a good man and was determined that he should not be hurt. + He started with his chiefs to Rock Island. + </p> + <p> + Having ascertained that White Beaver would not permit us to remain where + we were, I began to consider what was best to be done, and concluded to + keep on up the river, see the Pottowattomies and have a talk with them. + Several Winnebago chiefs were present, whom I advised of my intentions, as + they did not seem disposed to render us any assistance. I asked them if + they had not sent us wampum during the winter, and requested us to come + and join their people and enjoy all the rights and privileges of their + country. They did not deny this; and said if the white people did not + interfere, they had no objection to our making corn this year, with our + friend the prophet, but did not wish us to go any further up. + </p> + <p> + The next day I started with my party to Kishwacokee. That night I encamped + a short distance above the prophet's village. After all was quiet in our + camp I sent for my chiefs, and told them that we had been deceived. That + all the fair promises that had been held out to us through Neapope were + false. But it would not do to let our party know it. We must keep it + secret among ourselves, move on to Kishwacokee, as if all was right, and + say something on the way to encourage our people. I will then call on the + Pottowattomies, hear what they say, and see what they will do. + </p> + <p> + We started the next morning, after telling our people that news had just + come from Milwaukee that a chief of our British Father would be there in a + few days. Finding that all our plans were defeated, I told the prophet + that he must go with me, and we would see what could be done with the + Pottowattomies. On our arrival at Kishwacokee an express was sent to the + Pottowattomie villages. The next day a deputation arrived. I inquired if + they had corn in their villages. They said they had a very little and + could not spare any. I asked them different questions and received very + unsatisfactory answers. This talk was in the presence of all my people. I + afterwards spoke to them privately, and requested them to come to my lodge + after my people had gone to sleep. They came and took seats. I asked them + if they had received any news from the British on the lake. They said no. + I inquired if they had heard that a chief of our British Father was coming + to Milwaukee to bring us guns, ammunition, goods and provisions. They said + no. I told them what news had been brought to me, and requested them to + return to their village and tell the chiefs that I wished to see them and + have a talk with them. + </p> + <p> + After this deputation started, I concluded to tell my people that if White + Beaver came after us, we would go back, as it was useless to think of + stopping or going on without more provisions and ammunition. I discovered + that the Winnebagoes and Pottowattomies were not disposed to render us any + assistance. The next day the Pottowattomie chiefs arrived in my camp. I + had a dog killed, and made a feast. When it was ready, I spread my + medicine bags, and the chiefs began to eat. When the ceremony was about + ending, I received news that three or four hundred white men on horse-back + had been seen about eight miles off. I immediately started three young men + with a white flag to meet them and conduct them to our camp, that we might + hold a council with them and descend Rock river again. I also directed + them, in case the whites had encamped, to return, and I would go and see + them. After this party had started I sent five young men to see what might + take place. The first party went to the camp of the whites, and were taken + prisoners. The last party had not proceeded far before they saw about + twenty men coming toward them at full gallop. They stopped, and, finding + that the whites were coming toward them in such a warlike attitude, they + turned and retreated, but were pursued, and two of them overtaken and + killed. The others then made their escape. When they came in with the + news, I was preparing my flags to meet the war chief. The alarm was given. + Nearly all my young men were absent ten miles away. I started with what I + had left, about forty, and had proceeded but a short distance, before we + saw a part of the army approaching. I raised a yell, saying to y braves, + "Some of our people have been killed. Wantonly and cruelly murdered! We + must avenge their death!" + </p> + <p> + In a little while we discovered the whole army coming towards us at a full + gallop. We were now confident that our first party had been killed. I + immediately placed my men behind a cluster of bushes, that we might have + the first fire when they had approached close enough. They made a halt + some distance from us. I gave another yell, and ordered my brave warriors + to charge upon them, expecting that they would all be killed. They did + charge. Every man rushed towards the enemy and fired, and they retreated + in the utmost confusion and consternation before my little but brave band + of warriors. + </p> + <p> + After following the enemy for some distance, I found it useless to pursue + them further, as they rode so fast, and returned to the encampment with a + few braves, as about twenty-five of them continued in pursuit of the + flying enemy. I lighted my pipe and sat down to thank the Great Spirit for + what he had done. I had not been meditating long, when two of the three + young men I had seat with the flag to meet the American war chief, + entered. My astonishment was not greater than my joy to see them living + and well. I eagerly listened to their story, which was as follows: + </p> + <p> + "When we arrived near the encampment of the whites, a number of them + rushed out to meet us, bringing their guns with them. They took us into + their camp, where an American who spoke the Sac language a little told us + that his chief wanted to know how we were, where we were going, where our + camp was, and where was Black Hawk? We told him that we had come to see + his chief, that our chief had directed us to conduct him to our camp, in + case he had not encamped, and in that event to tell him that he, Black + Hawk, would come to see him; he wished to hold a council with him, as he + had given up all intention of going to war." + </p> + <p> + This man had once been a member of our tribe, having been adopted by me + many years before and treated with the same kindness as was shown to our + young men, but like the caged bird of the woods, he yearned for freedom, + and after a few years residence with us an opportunity for escape came and + he left us. On this occasion he would have respected our flag and carried + back the message I had sent to his chief, had he not been taken prisoner, + with a comrade, by some of my braves who did not recognize him, and + brought him into camp. They were securely tied with cords to trees and + left to meditate, but were occasionally buffeted by my young men when + passing near them. When I passed by him there was a recognition on the + part of us both, but on account of former friendship I concluded to let + him go, and some little time before the sun went down I released him from + his captivity by untying the cords that bound him and accompanied him + outside of our lines so that he could escape safely. His companion had + previously made a desperate effort to escape from his guards and was + killed by them. + </p> + <p> + They continued their story: + </p> + <p> + "At the conclusion of this talk a party of white men came in on horseback. + We saw by their countenances that something had happened. A general tumult + arose. They looked at us with indignation, talked among themselves for a + moment, when several of them cocked their guns and fired at us in the + crowd. Our companion fell dead. We rushed through the crowd and made our + escape. We remained in ambush but a short time, before we heard yelling + like Indians running an enemy. In a little while we saw some of the whites + in full speed. One of them came near us. I threw my tomahawk and struck + him on the head which brought him to the ground; I ran to him and with his + own knife took off his scalp. I took his gun, mounted his horse, and + brought my friend here behind me. We turned to follow our braves, who were + chasing the enemy, and had not gone far before we overtook a white man, + whose horse had mired in a swamp. My friend alighted and tomahawked the + man, who was apparently fast under his horse. He took his scalp, horse and + gun. By this time our party was some distance ahead. We followed on and + saw several white men lying dead on the way. After riding about six miles + we met our party returning. We asked them how many of our men had been + killed. . They said none after the Americans had retreated. We inquired + how many whites had been killed. They replied that they did not know, but + said we will soon ascertain, as we must scalp them as we go back. On our + return we found ten men, besides the two we had killed before we joined + our friends. Seeing that they did not yet recognize us, it being dark, we + again asked how many of our braves had been killed? They said five. We + asked who they were? They replied that the first party of three who went + out to meet the American war chief, had all been taken prisoners and + killed in the encampment, and that out of a party of five, who followed to + see the meeting of the first party with the whites, two had been killed. + We were now certain that they did not recognize us, nor did we tell who we + were until we arrived at our camp. The news of our death had reached it + some time before, and all were surprised to see us again." + </p> + <p> + The next morning I told the crier of my village to give notice that we + must go and bury our dead. In a little while all were ready. A small + deputation was sent for our absent warriors, and the remainder started to + bury the dead. We first disposed of them and then commenced an examination + in the enemy's deserted encampment for plunder. We found arms and + ammunition and provisions, all of which we were sadly in want of, + particularly the latter, as we were entirely without. We found also a + variety of saddle bags, which I distributed among my braves, a small + quantity of whisky and some little barrels that had contained this bad + medicine, but they were empty. I was surprised to find that the whites + carried whisky with them, as I had understood that all the pale faces, + when acting is soldiers in the field, were strictly temperate. + </p> + <p> + The enemy's encampment was in a skirt of woods near a run, about half a + day's travel from Dixon's ferry. We attacked them in the prairie, with a + few bushes between us, about sundown, and I expected that my whole party + would be killed. I never was so much surprised in all the fighting I have + seen, knowing, too, that the Americans generally shoot well, as I was to + see this army of several hundreds retreating, without showing fight, and + passing immediately through their encampment, I did think they intended to + halt there, as the situation would have forbidden attack by my party if + their number had not exceeded half of mine, as we would have been + compelled to take the open prairie whilst they could have picked trees to + shield themselves from our fire. + </p> + <p> + I was never so much surprised in my life as I was in this attack. An army + of three or four hundred men, after having learned that we were sueing for + peace, to attempt to kill the flag bearers that had gone unarmed to ask + for a meeting of the war chiefs of the two contending parties to hold a + council, that I might return to the west side of the Mississippi, to come + forward with a full determination to demolish the few braves I had with + me, to retreat when they had ten to one, was unaccountable to me. It + proved a different spirit from any I had ever before seen among the pale + faces. I expected to see them fight as the Americans did with the British + during the last war, but they had no such braves among them. At our feast + with the Pottowattomies I was convinced that we had been imposed upon by + those who had brought in reports of large re-enforcements to my band and + resolved not to strike a blow; and in order to get permission from White + Beaver to return and re-cross the Mississippi, I sent a flag of peace to + the American war chief, who was reported to be close by with his army, + expecting that he would convene a council and listen to what we had to + say. But this chief, instead of pursuing that honorable and chivalric + course, such as I have always practiced, shot down our flag-bearer and + thus forced us into war with less than five hundred warriors to contend + against three or four thousand soldiers. + </p> + <p> + The supplies that Neapope and the prophet told us about, and the + reinforcements we were to have, were never more heard of, and it is but + justice to our British Father to say were never promised, his chief being + sent word in lieu of the lies that were brought to me, "for us to remain + at peace as we could accomplish nothing but our own ruin by going to war." + </p> + <p> + What was now to be done? It was worse than folly to turn back and meet an + enemy where the odds were so much against us and thereby sacrifice + ourselves, our wives and children to the fury of an enemy who had murdered + some of our brave and unarmed warriors when they were on a mission to sue + for peace. + </p> + <p> + Having returned to our encampment, and found that all our young men had + come in, I sent out spies to watch the movements of the army, and + commenced moving up Kishwacokee with the balance of my people. I did not + know where to go to find a place of safety for my women and children, but + expected to find a good harbor about the head of Rock river. I concluded + to go there, and thought my best route would be to go round the head of + Kishwacokee, so that the Americans would have some difficulty if they + attempted to follow us. + </p> + <p> + On arriving at the head of Kishwacokee, I was met by a party of + Winnebagoes, who seemed to rejoice at our success. They said they had come + to offer their services, and were anxious to join in. I asked them if they + knew where there was a safe place for our women and children. They told us + that they would send two old men with us to guide us to a good safe place. + </p> + <p> + I arranged war parties to send out in different directions, before I + proceeded further. The Winnebagoes went alone. The war parties having all + been fitted out and started, we commenced moving to the Four Lakes, the + place where our guides were to conduct us. We had not gone far before six + Winnebagoes came in with one scalp. They said they had killed a man at a + grove, on the road from Dixon's to the lead mines. Four days after, the + party of Winnebagoes who had gone out from the head of Kishwacokee, + overtook us, and told me that they had killed four men and taken their + scalps: and that one of them was Keokuk's father, (the agent). They + proposed to have a dance over their scalps. I told them that I could have + no dancing in my camp, in consequence of my having lost three young + braves; but they might dance in their own camp, which they did. Two days + after, we arrived in safety at the place where the Winnebagoes had + directed us. In a few days a great number of our warriors came in. I + called them all around me, and addressed them. I told them: "Now is the + time, if any of you wish to come into distinction, and be honored with the + medicine bag! Now is the time to show your courage and bravery, and avenge + the murder of our three braves!" + </p> + <p> + Several small parties went out, and returned again in a few days, with + success—bringing in provisions for our people. In the mean time, + some spies came in, and reported that the army had fallen back to Dixon's + ferry; and others brought news that the horsemen had broken up their camp, + disbanded, and returned home. + </p> + <p> + Finding that all was safe, I made a dog feast, preparatory to leaving my + camp with a large party, (as the enemy were stationed so far off). Before + my braves commenced feasting, I took my medicine bags, and addressed them + in the following language: + </p> + <p> + "BRAVES AND WARRIORS: These are the medicine bags of our forefather, + Mukataquet, who was the father of the Sac nation. They were handed down to + the great war chief of our nation, Nanamakee, who has been at war with all + the nations of the plains, and have never yet been disgraced! I expect you + all to protect them!" + </p> + <p> + After the ceremony was over and our feasting done I started, with about + two hundred warriors following my great medicine bags. I directed my + course toward sunset and dreamed, the second night after we started, that + there would be a great feast prepared for us after one day's travel. I + told my warriors my dream in the morning and we started for Moscohocoynak, + (Apple river). When we arrived in the vicinity of a fort the white people + had built there we saw four men on horseback. One of my braves fired and + wounded a man when the others set up a yell as if a large force were near + and ready to come against us. We concealed ourselves and remained in this + position for some time watching to see the enemy approach, but none came. + The four men, in the mean time, ran to the fort and gave the alarm. We + followed them and attacked their fort. One of their braves, who seemed + more valiant than the rest, raised his head above the picketing to fire at + us when one of my braves, with a well-directed shot, put an end to his + bravery. Finding that these people could not be killed without setting + fire to their houses and fort I thought it more prudent to be content with + what flour, provisions, cattle and horses we could find than to set fire + to their buildings, as the light would be seen at a distance and the army + might suppose we were in the neighborhood and come upon us with a strong + force. Accordingly we opened a house and filled our bags with flour and + provisions, took several horses and drove off some of their cattle. + </p> + <p> + We started in a direction toward sunrise. After marching a considerable + time I discovered some white men coming towards us. I told my braves that + we would go into the woods and kill them when they approached. We + concealed ourselves until they came near enough and then commenced yelling + and firing and made a rush upon them. About this time their chief, with a + party of men, rushed up to rescue the men we had fired upon. In a little + while they commenced retreating and left their chief and a few braves who + seemed willing and anxious to fight. They acted like men, but were forced + to give way when I rushed upon them with my braves. In a short time the + chief returned with a lager party. He seemed determined to fight, and + anxious for a battle. When he came near enough I raised the yell and + firing commenced from both sides. The chief, who seemed to be a small man, + addressed his warriors in a loud voice, but they soon retreated, leaving + him and a few braves on the battle field. A great number of my warriors + pursued the retreating party and killed a number of their horses as they + ran. + </p> + <p> + The chief and his few braves were unwilling to leave the field. I ordered + my braves to rush upon them, and had the mortification of seeing two of my + chiefs killed before the enemy retreated. + </p> + <p> + This young chief deserves great praise for his courage and bravery, but + fortunately for us, his army was not all composed of such brave men. + </p> + <p> + During this attack we killed several men and about forty horses and lost + two young chiefs and seven warriors. My braves were anxious to pursue them + to the fort, attack and burn it, but I told them it was useless to waste + our powder as there was no possible chance of success if we did attack + them, and that as we had ran the bear into his hole we would there leave + him and return to our camp. + </p> + <p> + On arriving at our encampment we found that several of our spies had + returned, bringing intelligence that the army had commenced moving. + Another party of five came in and said they had been pursued for several + hours, and were attacked by twenty-five or thirty whites in the woods; + that the whites rushed in upon them as they lay concealed and received + their fire without seeing them. They immediately retreated whilst we + reloaded. They entered the thicket again and as soon as they came near + enough we fired. Again they retreated and again they rushed into the + thicket and fired. We returned their fire and a skirmish ensued between + two of their men and one of ours, who was killed by having his throat cut. + This was the only man we lost, the enemy having had three killed; they + again retreated. + </p> + <p> + Another party of three Sacs had come in and brought two young white + squaws, whom they had given to the Winnebagoes to take to the whites. They + said they had joined a party of Pottowattomies and went with them as a war + party against the settlers of Illinois. + </p> + <p> + The leader of this party, a Pottowattomie, had been severely whipped by + this settler, some time before, and was anxious to avenge the insult and + injury. While the party was preparing to start, a young Pottowattomie went + to the settler's house and told him to leave it, that a war party was + coming to murder them. They started, but soon returned again, as it + appeared that they were all there when the war party arrived. The + Pottowattomies killed the whole family, except two young squaws, whom the + Sacs took up on their horses and carried off, to save their lives. They + were brought to our encampment, and a messenger sent to the Winnebagoes, + as they were friendly on both sides, to come and get them, and carry them + to the whites. If these young men, belonging to my band, had not gone with + the Pottowittomies, the two young squaws would have shared the same fate + as their friends. + </p> + <p> + During our encampment at the Four Lakes we were hard pressed to obtain + enough to eat to support nature. Situated in a swampy, marshy country, + (which had been selected in consequence of the great difficulty required + to gain access thereto,) there was but little game of any sort to be + found, and fish were equally scarce. The great distance to any settlement, + and the impossibility of bringing supplies therefrom, if any could have + been obtained, deterred our young men from making further attempts. We + were forced to dig roots and bark trees, to obtain something to satisfy + hunger and keep us alive. Several of our old people became so reduced, as + to actually die with hunger! Learning that the army had commenced moving, + and fearing that they might come upon and surround our encampment, I + concluded to remove our women and children across the Mississippi, that + they might return to the Sac nation again. Accordingly, on the next day we + commenced moving, with five Winnebagoes acting as our guides, intending to + descend the Wisconsin. + </p> + <p> + Neapope, with a party of twenty, remained in our rear, to watch for the + enemy, whilst we were proceeding to the Wisconsin, with our women and + children. We arrived, and had commenced crossing over to an island, when + we discovered a large body of the enemy coming towards us. We were now + compelled to fight, or sacrifice our wives and children to the fury of the + whites. I met them with fifty warriors, (having left the balance to assist + our women and children in crossing) about a mile from the river, When an + attack immediately commenced, I was mounted on a fine horse, and was + pleased to see my warriors so brave. I addressed them in a load voice, + telling them to stand their ground and never yield it to the enemy. At + this time I was on the rise of a hill, where I wished to form my warriors, + that we might have some advantage over the whites. But the enemy succeeded + in gaining this point, which compelled us to fall into a deep ravine, from + which we continued firing at them and they at us, until it began to grow + dark. My horse having been wounded twice during this engagement, and + fearing from his loss of blood that he would soon give out, and finding + that the enemy would not come near enough to receive our fire, in the dusk + of the evening, and knowing that our women and children had had sufficient + time to reach the island in the Wisconsin, I ordered my warriors to + return, by different routes, and meet me at the Wisconsin, and was + astonished to find that the enemy were not disposed to pursue us. + </p> + <p> + In this skirmish with fifty braves, I defended and accomplished my passage + over the Wisconsin, with a loss of only six men, though opposed by a host + of mounted militia. I would not have fought there, but to gain time for + our women and children to cross to an island. A warrior will duly + appreciate the embarrassments I labored under—and whatever may be + the sentiments of the white people in relation to this battle, my nation, + though fallen, will award to me the reputation of a great brave in + conducting it. + </p> + <p> + The loss of the enemy could not be ascertained by our party; but I am of + the opinion that it was much greater, in proportion, than mine. We + returned to the Wisconsin and crossed over to our people. + </p> + <p> + Here some of my people left me, and descended the Wisconsin, hoping to + escape to the west side of the Mississippi, that they might return home. I + had no objection to their leaving me, as my people were all in a desperate + condition, being worn out with traveling and starving with hunger. Our + only hope to save ourselves was to get across the Mississippi. But few of + this party escaped. Unfortunately for them, a party of soldiers from + Prairie du Chien were stationed on the Wisconsin, a short distance from + its mouth, who fired upon our distressed people. Some were killed, others + drowned, several taken prisoners, and the balance escaped to the woods and + perished with hunger. Among this party were a great many women and + children. + </p> + <p> + I was astonished to find that Neapope and his party of spies had not yet + come in, they having been left in my rear to bring the news, if the enemy + were discovered. It appeared, however, that the whites had come in a + different direction and intercepted our trail but a short distance from + the place where we first saw them, leaving our spies considerably in the + rear. Neapope and one other retired to the Winnebago village, and there + remained during the war. The balance of his party, being brave men, and + considering our interests as their own, returned, and joined our ranks. + </p> + <p> + Myself and band having no means to descend the Wisconsin, I started over a + rugged country, to go to the Mississippi, intending to cross it and return + to my nation. Many of our people were compelled to go on foot, for want of + horses, which, in consequence of their having had nothing to eat for a + long time, caused our march to be very slow. At length we arrived at the + Mississippi, having lost some of our old men and little children, who + perished on the way with hunger. + </p> + <p> + We had been here but a little while before we saw a steamboat (the + "Warrior,") coming. I told my braves not to shoot, as I intended going on + board, so that we might save our women and children. I knew the captain + (Throckmorton) and was determined to give myself up to him. I then sent + for my white flag. While the messenger was gone, I took a small piece of + white cotton and put it on a pole, and called to the captain of the boat, + and told him to send his little canoe ashore and let me come aboard. The + people on board asked whether we were Sacs or Winnebagoes. I told a + Winnebago to tell them that we were Sacs, and wanted to give ourselves up! + A Winnebago on the boat called out to us "to run and hide, that the whites + were going to shoot!" About this time one of my braves had jumped into the + river, bearing a white flag to the boat, when another sprang in after him + and brought him to the shore. The firing then commenced from the boat, + which was returned by my braves and continued for some time. Very few of + my people were hurt after the first fire, having succeeded in getting + behind old logs and trees, which shielded them from the enemy's fire. + </p> + <p> + The Winnebago on the steamboat must either have misunderstood what was + told, or did not tell it to the captain correctly; because I am confident + he would not have allowed the soldiers to fire upon us if he had known my + wishes. I have always considered him a good man, and too great a brave to + fire upon an enemy when sueing for quarters. + </p> + <p> + After the boat left us, I told my people to cross if they could, and + wished; that I intended going into the Chippewa country. Some commenced + crossing, and such as had determined to follow them, remained; only three + lodges going with me. Next morning, at daybreak, a young man overtook me, + and said that all my party had determined to cross the Mississippi—that + a number had already got over safely and that he had heard the white army + last night within a few miles of them. I now began to fear that the whites + would come up with my people and kill them before they could get across. I + had determined to go and join the Chippewas; but reflecting that by this I + could only save myself, I concluded to return, and die with my people, if + the Great Spirit would not give us another victory. During our stay in the + thicket, a party of whites came close by us, but passed on without + discovering us. + </p> + <p> + Early in the morning a party of whites being in advance of the army, came + upon our people, who were attempting to cross the Mississippi. They tried + to give themselves up; the whites paid no attention to their entreaties, + but commenced slaughtering them. In a little while the whole army arrived. + Our braves, but few in umber, finding that the enemy paid no regard to age + or sex, and seeing that they were murdering helpless women and little + children, determined to fight until they were killed. As many women as + could, commenced swimming the Mississippi, with their children on their + backs. A number of them were drowned, and some shot before they could + reach the opposite shore. + </p> + <p> + One of my braves, who gave me this information, piled up some saddles + before him, (when the fight commenced), to shield himself from the enemy's + fire, and killed three white men. But seeing that the whites were coming + too close to him, he crawled to the bank of the without being perceived, + and hid himself under the bank until the enemy retired. He then came to me + and told me what had been done. After hearing this sorrowful news, I + started with my little party to the Winnebago village at Prairie La Cross. + On my arrival there I entered the lodge of one of the chiefs, and told him + that I wished him to go with me to his father, that I intended giving + myself up to the American war chief and die, if the Great Spirit saw + proper. He said he would go with me. I then took my medicine bag and + addressed the chief. I told him that it was "the soul of the Sac nation—that + it never had been dishonored in any battle, take it, it is my life—dearer + than life—and give it to the American chief!" He said he would keep + it, and take care of it, and if I was suffered to live, he would send it + to me. + </p> + <p> + During my stay at the village, the squaws made me a white dress of deer + skin. I then started with several Winnebagoes, and went to their agent, at + Prairie du Chien, and gave myself up. + </p> + <p> + On my arrival there, I found to my sorrow, that a large body of Sioux had + pursued and killed a number of our women and children, who had got safely + across the Mississippi. The whites ought not to have permitted such + conduct, and none but cowards would ever have been guilty of such cruelty, + a habit which had always been practiced on our nation by the Sioux. + </p> + <p> + The massacre, which terminated the war, lasted about two hours. Our loss + in killed was about sixty, besides a number that was drowned. The loss of + the enemy could not be ascertained by my braves, exactly; but they think + that they killed about sixteen during the action. + </p> + <p> + I was now given up by the agent to the commanding officer at Fort + Crawford, the White Beaver having gone down the river. We remained here a + short time, and then started for Jefferson Barracks, in a steam boat, + under the charge of a young war chief, (Lieut. Jefferson Davis) who + treated us all with much kindness. He is a good and brave young chief, + with whose conduct I was much pleased. On our way down we called at Galena + and remained a short time. The people crowded to the boat to see us: but + the war chief would not permit them to enter the apartment where we were—knowing, + from what his feelings would have been if he had been placed in a similar + situation, that we did not wish to have a gaping crowd around us. + </p> + <p> + We passed Rock Island without stopping. The great war chief, Gen. Scott, + who was then at Fort Armstrong, came out in a small boat to see us, but + the captain of the steamboat would not allow anybody from the fort to come + on board his boat, in consequence of the cholera raging among the + soldiers. I did think that the captain ought to have permitted the war + chief to come on board to see me, because I could see no danger to be + apprehended by it. The war chief looked well, and I have since heard was + constantly among his soldiers, who were sick and dying, administering to + their wants, and had not caught the disease from them and I thought it + absurd to think that any of the people on the steamboat could be afraid of + catching the disease from a well man. But these people are not brave like + war chiefs, who never fear anything. + </p> + <p> + On our way down, I surveyed the country that had cost us so much trouble, + anxiety and blood, and that now caused me to be a prisoner of war. I + reflected upon the ingratitude of the whites when I saw their fine houses, + rich harvests and everything desirable around them; and recollected that + all this land had been ours, for which I and my people had never received + a dollar, and that the whites were not satisfied until they took our + village and our graveyards from us and removed us across the Mississippi. + </p> + <p> + On our arrival at Jefferson Barracks we met the great war chief, White + Beaver, who had commanded the American army against my little band. I felt + the humiliation of my situation; a little while before I had been leader + of my braves, now I was a prisoner of war, but had surrendered myself. He + received us kindly and treated us well. + </p> + <p> + We were now confined to the barracks and forced to wear the ball and + chain. This was extremely mortifying and altogether useless. Was the White + Beaver afraid I would break out of his barracks and run away? Or was he + ordered to inflict this punishment upon me? If I had taken him prisoner on + the field of battle I would not have wounded his feelings so much by such + treatment, knowing that a brave war chief would prefer death to dishonor. + But I do not blame the White Beaver for the course he pursued, as it is + the custom among the white soldiers, and I suppose was a part of his duty. + </p> + <p> + The time dragged heavily and gloomily along throughout the winter, + although the White Beaver did everything is his power to render us + comfortable. Having been accustomed, throughout a long life, to roam the + forests o'er, to go and come at liberty, confinement, and under such + circumstances, could not be less than torture. + </p> + <p> + We passed away the time making pipes until spring, when we were visited by + the agent, trader and interpreter, from Rock Island, Keokuk and several + chiefs and braves of our nation, and my wife and daughter. I was rejoiced + to see the two latter and spent my time very agreeably with them and my + people as long as they remained. + </p> + <p> + The trader, Sagenash, (Col. Davenport) presented me with some dried + venison, which had been killed and cured by some of my friends. This was a + valuable present, and although he had given me many before, none ever + pleased me so much. This was the first meat I had eaten for a long time + that reminded me of the former pleasures of my own wigwam, which had + always been stored with plenty. + </p> + <p> + Keokuk and his chiefs, during their stay at the barracks, petitioned our + Great Father, the president, to release us, and pledged themselves for our + good conduct. I now began to hope I would soon be restored to liberty and + the enjoyment of my family and friends, having heard that Keokuk stood + high in the estimation of our Great Father, because he did not join me in + the war, but I was soon disappointed in my hopes. An order came from our + Great Father to the White Beaver to send us on to Washington. + </p> + <p> + In a little while all were ready and left Jefferson Barracks on board of a + steamboat, under charge of a young war chief and one soldier, whom the + White Beaver sent along as a guide to Washington. We were accompanied by + Keokuk, wife and son, Appanooce, Wapello, Poweshiek, Pashippaho, + Nashashuk, Saukee, Musquaukee, and our interpreter. Our principal traders, + Col. Geo. Davenport, of Rock Island, and S. S. Phelps and clerk, William + Cousland, of the Yellow Banks, also accompanied us. On our way up the Ohio + we passed several large villages, the names of which were explained to me. + The first is called Louisville, and is a very petty village, situated on + the bank of the Ohio River. The next is Cincinnati, which stands on the + bank of the same river. This is a large and beautiful village and seemed + to be in a thriving condition. The people gathered on the bank as we + passed, in great crowds, apparently anxious to see us. + </p> + <p> + On our arrival at Wheeling the streets and river banks were crowded with + people, who flocked from every direction to see us. While we remained here + many called upon us and treated us with kindness, no one offering to + molest or misuse us. This village is not so large as either of those + before mentioned, but is quite a pretty one. + </p> + <p> + We left the steamboat then, having traveled a long distance on the + prettiest river I ever saw (except our Mississippi) and took the stage. + Being unaccustomed to this mode of traveling, we soon got tired and wished + ourselves seated in a canoe on one of our own rivers, that we might return + to our friends. We had traveled but a short distance before our carriage + turned over, from which I received a slight injury, and the soldier had + one arm broken. I was sorry for this accident, as the young man had + behaved well. + </p> + <p> + We had a rough and mountainous country for several days, but had a good + trail for our carriage. It is astonishing what labor and pains the white + people have had to make this road, as it passes over several mountains, + which are generally covered with rocks and timber, yet it has been made + smooth and easy to travel upon. + </p> + <p> + Rough and mountainous as this country is there are many wigwams and small + villages standing on the roadside. I could see nothing in the country to + induce the people to live in it, and was astonished to find so many whites + living on the hills. + </p> + <p> + I have often thought of them since my return to my own people, and am + happy to think that they prefer living in their own country to coming out + to ours and driving us from it, as many of the whites have already done. I + think with them, that wherever the Great Spirit places his people they + ought to be satisfied to remain, and be thankful for what He has given + them, and not drive others from the country He has given them because it + happens to be better then theirs. This is contrary to our way of thinking, + and from my intercourse with the whites, I have learned that one great + principle of their religion is "to do unto others as you wish them to do + unto you." Those people in the mountains seem to act upon this principle, + but the settlers on our frontiers and on our lands seem never to think of + it, if we are to judge by their actions. + </p> + <p> + The first village of importance that we came to, after leaving the + mountains, is called Hagerstown. It is a large village to be so far from a + river and is very pretty. The people appear to live well and enjoy + themselves much. + </p> + <p> + We passed through several small villages on the way to Fredericktown, but + I have forgotten their names. This last is a large and beautiful village. + The people treated us well, as they did at all other villages where we + stopped. + </p> + <p> + Here we came to another road much more wonderful than that through the + mountains. They call it a railroad, (the Baltimore and Ohio). I examined + it carefully, but need not describe it, as the whites know all about it. + It is the most astonishing sight I ever saw. The great road over the + mountains will bear no comparison to it, although it has given the white + people much trouble to make. I was surprised to see so much money and + labor expended to make a good road for easy traveling. I prefer riding + horse back, however, to any other way, but suppose these people would not + have gone to so much trouble and expense to make a road if they did not + prefer riding in their new fashioned carriages, which seem to run without + any trouble, being propelled by steam on the same principle that boats are + on the river. They certainly deserve great praise for their industry. + </p> + <p> + On our arrival at Washington, we called to see our Great Father, the + President. He looks as if he had seen as many winters as I have, and seems + to be a great brave. I had very little talk with him, as he appeared to be + busy and did not seem to be much disposed to talk. I think he is a good + man; and although he talked but little, he treated us very well. His + wigwam is well furnished with every thing good and pretty, and is very + strongly built. + </p> + <p> + He said he wished to know the cause of my going to war against his white + children. I thought he ought to have known this before; and consequently + said but little to him about it, as I expected he knew as well as I cold + tell him. + </p> + <p> + He said he wanted us to go to Fortress Monroe and stay awhile with the war + chief who commanded it. But having been so long from my people, I told him + that I would rather return to my nation; that Keokuk had come here once on + a visit to him, as we had done, and he had let him return again, as soon + as he wished, and that I expected to be treated in the same manner. He + insisted, however, on our going to Fortress Monroe; and as the interpreter + then present could not understand enough of our language to interpret a + speech, I concluded it was best to obey our Great Father, and say nothing + contrary to his wishes. + </p> + <p> + During our stay at the city, we were called upon by many of the people, + who treated us well, particularly the squaws; we visited the great council + home of the Americans; the place where they keep their big guns; and all + the public buildings, and then started for Fortress Monroe. The war chief + met us on our arrival, and shook hands, and appeared glad to see me. He + treated us with great friendship, and talked to me frequently. Previous to + our leaving this fort, he made us a feast, and gave us some presents, + which I intend to keep for his sake. He is a very good man and a great + brave. I was sorry to leave him, although I was going to return to my + people, because he had treated me like a brother, during all the time I + remained with him. + </p> + <p> + Having got a new guide, a war chief (Maj. Garland), we started for our own + country, taking a circuitous route. Our Great Father being about to pay a + visit to his children in the big towns towards sunrise, and being desirous + that we should have an opportunity of seeing them, had directed our guide + to take us through. + </p> + <p> + On our arrival at Baltimore, we were much astonished to see so large a + village; but the war chief told us we would soon see a larger one. This + surprised us more. During our stay here, we visited all the public + buildings and places of amusement, saw much to admire, and were well + entertained by the people who crowded to see us. Our Great Father was + there at the same time, and seemed to be much liked by his white children, + who flocked around him, (as they had around us) to shake him by the hand. + He did not remain long, having left the city before us. In an interview, + while here, the President said: + </p> + <p> + "When I saw you in Washington, I told you that you had behaved very badly + in going to war against the whites. Your conduct then compelled me to send + my warriors against you, and your people were defeated with great loss, + and several of you surrendered, to be kept until I should be satisfied + that you would not try to do any more injury. I told you, too, that I + would inquire whether your people wished you to return, and whether, if + you did return, there would be any danger to the frontier. Gen. Clark and + Gen. Atkinson, whom you know, have informed me that your principal chief + and the rest of your people are anxious you should return, and Keokuk has + asked me to send you back. Your chiefs have pledged themselves for your + good conduct, and I have given directions that you should be taken to your + own country. + </p> + <p> + "Major Garland, who is with you, will conduct you through some of our + towns. You will see the strength of the white people. You will see that + our young men are as numerous as the leaves in the woods. What can you do + against us? You may kill a few women and children, but such a force would + seen be sent against you as would destroy your whole tribe. Let the red + men hunt and take care of their families. I hope they will not again raise + the tomahawk against their white brethren. We do not wish to injure you. + We desire your prosperity and improvement. But if you again make war + against our people, I shall send a force which will severely punish you. + When you go back, listen to the councils of Keokuk and the other friendly + chiefs; bury the tomahawk and live in peace with the people on the + frontier. And I pray the Great Spirit to give you a smooth path and a fair + sky to return." + </p> + <p> + I was pleased with our Great Father's talk and thanked him. Told him that + the tomahawk had been buried so deep that it would never be resurrected, + and that my remaining days would be spent in peace with all my white + brethren. + </p> + <p> + We left Baltimore in a steamboat, and traveled in this way to the big + village, where they make medals and money, (Philadelphia.) We again + expressed surprise at finding this village so much larger than the one we + had left; but the war chief again told us we would see another much larger + than this. I had no idea that the white people had such large villages, + and so many people. They were very kind to us, showed us all their great + public works, their ships and steamboats. We visited the place where they + make money, (the mint) and saw the men engaged at it. They presented each + of us with a number of pieces of the coin as they fell from the mint, + which are very handsome. + </p> + <p> + I witnessed a militia training in this city, in which were performed a + number of singular military feats. The chiefs and men were all well + dressed, and exhibited quite a warlike appearance. I think our system of + military parade far better than that of the whites, but as I am now done + going to war I will not describe it, or say anything more about war, or + the preparations necessary for it. + </p> + <p> + We next started for New York, and on our arrival near the wharf, saw a + large collection of people gathered at Castle Garden. We had seen many + wonderful sights in our way—large villages, the great national road + over the mountains, the railroad, steam carriages, ships, steamboat, and + many other things; but we were now about to witness a sight more + surprising than any of these. We were told that a man was going up in the + air in a balloon. We watched with anxiety to see if this could be true; + and to our utter astonishment, saw him ascend in the air until the eye + could no longer perceive him. Our people were all surprised and one of our + young men asked the Prophet if he was going up to see the Great Spirit? + </p> + <p> + After the ascension of the balloon, we landed and got into a carriage to + go to the house that had been provided for our reception. We had proceeded + but a short distance before the street was so crowded that it was + impossible for the carriage to pass. The war chief then directed the + coachman to take another street, and stop at a different house from the + one we had intended. On our arrival here we were waited upon by a number + of gentlemen, who seemed much pleased to see us. We were furnished with + good rooms, good provisions, and everything necessary for our comfort. + </p> + <p> + The chiefs of this big village, being desirous that all their people + should have an opportunity to see us, fitted up their great council home + for this purpose, where we saw an immense number of people; all of whom + treated us with great friendship, and many with great generosity. One of + their great chiefs, John A. Graham, waited upon us and made a very pretty + talk, which appeared in the village papers, one of which I now hand you. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + MR. GRAHAM'S SPEECH. + </h2> + <p> + "BROTHERS: Open your ears. You are brave men. You have fought like tigers, + but in a bad cause. We have conquered you. We were sorry last year that + you raised the tomahawk against us; but we believe you did not know us + then as you do now. We think, in time to come, you will be wise, and that + we shall be friends forever. You see that we are a great people, numerous + as the flowers of the field, as the shells on the sea shore, or the fishes + in the sea, We put one hand on the eastern, and at the same time the other + on the western ocean. We all act together. If some time our great men talk + long and loud at our council fires, but shed one drop of white men's + blood, our young warriors, as thick as the stars of the night, will leap + aboard of our great boats, which fly on the waves and over the lakes—swift + as the eagle in the air—then penetrate the woods, make the big guns + thunder, and the whole heavens red with the flames of the dwellings of + their enemies. Brothers, the President has made you a great talk. He has + but one mouth. That one has sounded the sentiments of all the people. + Listen to what he has said to you. Write it on your memories, it is good, + very good. + </p> + <p> + "Black Hawk, take these jewels, a pair of topaz earrings, beautifully set + in gold, for your wife or daughter, as a token of friendship, keeping + always in mind, that women and children are the favorites of the Great + Spirit. These jewels are from an old man, whose head is whitened with the + snows of seventy winters, an old man who has thrown down his bow, put off + his sword, and now stands leaning on his staff, waiting the commands of + the Great Spirit. Look around you, see all this mighty people, then go to + your homes, open your arms to receive your families. Tell them to buy the + hatchet, to make bright the chain of friendship, to love the white men, + and to live in peace with them, as long as the rivers run into the sea, + and the sun rises and sets. If you do so, you will be happy. You will then + insure the prosperity of unborn generations of your tribes, who will go + hand in hand with the sons of the white men, and all shall be blessed by + the Great Spirit. Peace and happiness by the blessing of the Great Spirit + attend you. Farewell." + </p> + <p> + In reply to this fine talk, I said, "Brother: We like your talk. We like + the white people. They are very kind to us. We shall not forget it. Your + council is good. We shall attend to it. Your valuable present shall go to + my squaw. We shall always be friends." + </p> + <p> + The chiefs were particular in showing us everything that they thought + would be pleasing or gratifying to us. We went with them to Castle Garden + to see the fire-works, which was quite an agreeable entertainment, but to + the whites who witnessed it, less magnificent than would have been the + sight of one of our large prairies when on fire. + </p> + <p> + We visited all the public buildings and places of amusement, which, to us, + were truly astonishing yet very gratifying. + </p> + <p> + Everybody treated us with friendship, and many with great liberality. The + squaws presented us many handsome little presents that are said to be + valuable. They were very kind, very good, and very pretty—for + pale-faces. + </p> + <p> + Among the men, who treated us with marked friendship, by the presentation + of many valuable presents, I cannot omit to mention the name of my old + friend Crooks, of the American Fur Company. I have known him long, and + have always found him to be a good chief, one who gives good advice, and + treats our people right. I shall always be proud to recognize him as a + friend, and glad to shake him by the hand. + </p> + <p> + Being anxious to return to our people, our guide started with us for our + own country. On arriving at Albany, the people were so anxious to see us, + that they crowded the streets and wharfs, where the steamboats landed, so + much, that it was almost impossible for us to pass to the hotel which had + been provided for our reception. We remained here but a short time, it + being a comparatively small village, with only a few large public + buildings. The great council home of the state is located here, and the + big chief (the governor) resides here, in an old mansion. From here we + went to Buffalo, thence to Detroit, where I had spent many pleasant days, + and anticipated, on my arrival, to meet many of my old friends, but in + this I was disappointed. What could be the cause of this? Are they all + dead? Or what has become of them? I did not see our old father them, who + had always given me good advice and treated me with great friendship. + </p> + <p> + After leaving Detroit it was but a few days before we landed at Prairie du + Chien. The war chief at the fort treated us very kindly, as did the people + generally. I called on the agent of the Winnebagoes, (Gen. J. M. Street), + to whom I had surrendered myself after the battle at Bad Axe, who received + me very friendly. I told him that I had left my great medicine bag with + his chiefs before I gave myself up; and now, that I was to enjoy my + liberty again, I was anxious to get it, that I might head it down to my + nation unsullied. + </p> + <p> + He said it was safe; he had heard his chiefs speak of it, and would get it + and send it to me. I hope he will not forget his promise, as the whites + generally do, because I have always heard that he was a good man, and a + good father, and made no promise that he did not fulfill. + </p> + <p> + Passing down the Mississippi, I discovered a large collection of people in + the mining country, on the west side of the river, and on the ground that + we had given to our relation, DUBUQUE, a long time ago. I was surprised at + this, As I had understood from our Great Father that the Mississippi was + to be the dividing line between his red and white children, and he did not + wish either to cross it. I was much pleased with this talk, and I knew it + would be much better for both parties. I have since found the country much + settled by the whites further down, and near to our people, on the west + side of the river. I am very much afraid that in a few years they will + begin to drive and abuse our people, as they have formerly done. I may not + live to see it, but I feel certain the day is not far distant. + </p> + <p> + When we arrived at Rock Island, Keokuk and the other chiefs were sent for. + They arrived the next day with a great number of their young men, and came + over to see me. I was pleased to see them, and they all appeared glad to + see me. Among them were some who had lost relations the year before. When + we met, I perceived the tear of sorrow gush from their eyes at the + recollection of their loss, yet they exhibited a smiling countenance, from + the joy they felt at seeing me alive and well. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, the war chief, our guide, convened a council at Fort + Armstrong. Keokuk and his party went to the fort; but, in consequence of + the war chief not having called for me to accompany him, I concluded that + I would wait until I was sent for. Consequently, the interpreter came and + said, "they were ready, and had been waiting for me to come to the fort." + I told him I was ready and would accompany him. On our arrival there the + council commenced. The war chief said that the object of this council was + to deliver me up to Keokuk. He then read a paper, and directed me to + follow Keokuk's advice, and be governed by his counsel in all things! In + this speech he said much that was mortifying to my feelings, and I made an + indignant reply. + </p> + <p> + I do not know what object the war chief had in making such a speech; or + whether he intended what he said; but I do know that it was uncalled for, + and did not become him. I have addressed many war chiefs and listened to + their speeches with pleasure, but never had my feelings of pride and honor + insulted on any other occasion. But I am sorry I was so hasty in reply to + this chief, because I said that which I did not intend. + </p> + <p> + In this council I met my old friend (Col. Wm. Davenport,) whom I had known + about eighteen years. He is a good and brave chief. He always treated me + well, and gave me good advice. He made me a speech on this occasion, very + different from that of the other chief. It sounded like coming from a + brave. He said he had known me a long time, that we had been good friends + during that acquaintance, and, although he had fought against my braves, + in our late war, he still extended the hand of friendship to me, and hoped + that I was now satisfied, from what I had seen in my travels, that it was + folly to think of going to war against the whites, and would ever remain + at peace. He said he would be glad to see me at all times, and on all + occasions would be happy to give me good advice. + </p> + <p> + If our Great Father were to make such men our agents he would much better + subserve the interests of our people, as well as his own, than in any + other way. The war chiefs all know our people, and are respected by them. + If the war chiefs at the different military posts on the frontier were + made agents, they could always prevent difficulties from arising among the + Indians and whites; and I have no doubt, had the war chief above alluded + to been our agent, we would never have had the difficulties with the + whites we have had. Our agents ought always to be braves. I would, + therefore, recommend to our Great Father the propriety of breaking up the + present Indian establishment, and creating a new one, and make the + commanding officers at the different frontier posts the agents of the + Government for the different nations of Indians. + </p> + <p> + I have a good opinion of the American war chiefs generally with whom I am + acquainted, and my people, who had an opportunity of seeing and becoming + well acquainted with the great war chief (Gen. Winfield Scott), who made + the last treaty with them, in conjunction with the great chief of Illinois + (Governor Reynolds), all tell me that he is the greatest brave they ever + saw, and a good man—one who fulfills his premises. Our braves spoke + more highly of him than of any chief that had ever been among us, or made + treaties with us. Whatever he says may be depended upon. If he had been + our Great Father we never would have been compelled to join the British in + the last war with America, and I have thought that as our Great Father is + changed every few years, that his children would do well to put this great + war chief in his place, for they cannot find a better chief for a Great + Father anywhere. + </p> + <p> + I would be glad if the village criers (editors), in all the villages I + passed through, would let their people know my wishes and opinions about + this great war chief. + </p> + <p> + During my travels my opinions were asked for on different subjects, but + for want of a good interpreter (our regular interpreter having gone home + on a different route), were seldom given. Presuming that they would be + equally acceptable now, I have thought it a part of my duty to lay the + most important before the public. + </p> + <p> + The subject of colonizing the negroes was introduced and my opinion asked + as to the best method of getting clear of these people. I was not fully + prepared at that time to answer, as I knew but little about their + situation. I have since made many inquiries on the subject, and find that + a number of States admit no slaves, whilst the balance hold these negroes + as slaves, and are anxious, but do not know how to get clear of them. I + will now give my plan, which, when understood, I hope will be adopted. + </p> + <p> + Let the free States remove all the male negroes within their limits to the + slave States; then let our Great Father buy all the female negroes in the + slave States between the ages of twelve and twenty, and sell them to the + people of the free States, for a term of years, say those under fifteen + until they are twenty-one, and those of and over fifteen, for five years, + and continue to buy all the females in the slave States as soon as they + arrive at the age of twelve, and take them to the free States and dispose + of them in the same way as the first, and it will not be long before the + country is clear of the black-skins, about which I am told they have been + talking for a long time, and for which they have expended a large amount + of money. + </p> + <p> + I have no doubt but our Great Father would willingly do his part in + accomplishing this object for his children, as he could not lose much by + it, and would make them all happy. If the free States did not want them + all for servants, we would take the balance in our nation to help our + women make corn. + </p> + <p> + I have not time now, or is it necessary to enter more into detail about my + travels through the United States. The white people know all about them, + and my people have started to their hunting grounds and I am anxious to + follow them. + </p> + <p> + Before I take leave of the public, I must contradict the story of some of + the village criers, who, I have been told, accuse me of having murdered + women ad children among the whites. This assertion is false! I never did, + nor have I any knowledge that any of my nation ever killed a white woman + or child. I make this statement of truth to satisfy the white people among + whom I have been traveling, and by whom I have been treated with great + kindness, that, when they shook me by the hand so cordially, they did not + shake the hand that had ever been raised against any but warriors. + </p> + <p> + It has always been our custom to receive all strangers that come to our + village or camps in time of peace on terms of friendship, to share with + them the best provisions we have, and give them all the assistance in our + power. If on a journey or lost, to put them on the right trail, and if in + want of moccasins, to supply them. I feel grateful to the whites for the + kind manner they treated me and my party whilst traveling among them, and + from my heart I assure them that the white man will always be welcome in + our village or camps, as a brother. The tomahawk is buried forever! We + will forget what has passed, and may the watchword between the Americans + and he Sacs and Foxes ever be—FRIENDSHIP. + </p> + <p> + I am done now. A few more moons and I must follow my fathers to the + shades. May the Great Spirit keep our people and the whites always at + peace, is the sincere wish of + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + BLACK HAWK. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + STARTS FOR A NEW HOME. + </h2> + <p> + After we had finished his autobiography the interpreter read it over to + him carefully, and explained it thoroughly, so that he might make any + needed corrections, by adding to, or taking from the narrations; but he + did not desire to change it in any material matter. He said, "It contained + nothing but the truth, and that it was his desire that the white people in + the big villages he had visited should know how badly he had been treated, + and the reason that had impelled him to act as he had done." Arrangements + having been completed for moving to his new home, he left Rock Island on + the 10th of October with his family and a small portion of his band, for + his old hunting grounds on Skunk river, on the west side of the + Mississippi river below Shokokon. Here he had a comfortable dwelling + erected, and settled down with the expectation of making it his permanent + home, thus spending the evening of his days in peace and quietude. + </p> + <p> + Our next meeting with the Chief was in the Autumn Of 1834 while on our way + to the trading house of Captain William Phelps (now of Lewistown, Ills.), + at Sweet Home, located on the bank of the Des Moines river. This was soon + after the payment of the annuities at Rock Island, where the chiefs and + head men had been assembled and received the money and divided it among + their people by such rule as they saw fit to adopt; but this mode of + distribution had proved very unsatisfactory to a large number of Indians + who felt that they had been sorely wronged. The Sacs held a convocation at + Phelps' trading house soon after our arrival, and petitioned their Great + Father to change the mode of payment of their annuities. Black Hawk was a + leading spirit in this movement, but thought best not to be present at the + meeting. The writer of this drew up a petition in advance of the + assembling of the meeting, in accordance with the views of the Messrs. + Phelps, and after a short council, in which the Indians generally + participated, the interpreter read and explained to them the petition, + which was a simple prayer to their Great Father, to charge the mode of + payment so that each head of a family should receive and receipt for his + proportion of the annuity. They were all satisfied and the entire party + "touched the goose quill," and their names were thus duly attached to this + important document. + </p> + <p> + The Secretary of War had long favored this mode of payment of the + annuities to the Indians, and at a meeting of the Cabinet to consider this + petition the prayer of the Indians was granted, and in due time the Indian + department received instructions, so that upon the payment of 1835 this + rule was adopted. On his return from Rock Island, Black Hawk, with a + number of his band, called on his old friend Wahwashenequa (Hawkeye), Mr. + Stephen S. Phelps, to buy their necessary supplies for making a fall hunt, + and to learn at what points trading houses would be established for the + winter trade. During their stay the old chief had frequent interviews with + the writer (his former amanuensis). He said he had a very comfortable + home, a good corn field, and plenty of game, and had been well treated by + the few whites who had settled in his neighborhood. He spent several days + with us and then left for home with a good winter outfit. + </p> + <p> + The change in the manner of payment of annuities would have been opposed + by Keokuk and his head men, had they been let into the secret, as the + annuity money when paid over was principally controlled by him, and always + to the detriment of the Sacs' traders who were in opposition to the + American Fur Company, the former having to rely almost entirely upon the + fall and winter trade in furs and peltries to pay the credits given the + Indians before leaving for their hunts. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BLACK HAWK'S LAST VISIT + </h2> + <p> + To Yellow Banks was in the fall of 1836, after the town of Oquawka had + been laid out, and when told that the town had taken the Indian name, + instead of its English interpretation, he was very much gratified, as he + had known it as Oquawka ever since his earliest recollection and had + always made it a stopping place when going out to their winter camps. He + said the Skunk river country was dotted over with Cabins all the way down + to the Des Moines river, and was filling up very fast by white people. A + new village had been started at Shokokon (Flint Hills) by the whites, and + some of its people have already built good houses, but the greater number + are still living in log cabins. They should have retained its Indian name, + Shokokon, as our people have spent many happy days in this village. Here + too, we had our council house in which the braves of the Sac nation have + many times assembled to listen to my words of counsel. It was situated in + a secluded but romantic spot in the midst of the bluffs, not far from the + river, and on frequent occasions, when it became necessary to send out + parties to make war on the Sioux to redress our grievances, I have + assembled my braves here to give them counsel before starting on he + war-path. And here, too, we have often met when starting out in the fall + for our fall and winter's hunt, to counsel in regard to our several + locations for the winter. In those days the Fur Company had a trading + house here and their only neighbors were the resident Indians of Tama's + town, located a few miles above on the river. + </p> + <p> + The Burlington <i>Hawk-Eye</i>, of a late date, in reference to this + council house, says: + </p> + <p> + "A little distance above the water works, and further around the turn of + the bluff is a natural amphitheater, formed by the action of the little + stream that for ages has dripped and gurgled down its deep and narrow + channel to the river. It is a straight, clear cut opening in the hill + side, slightly rising till at a distance of seventy-five or one hundred + yards from the face of the bluff it terminates as suddenly and sharply as + do the steeply sloping sides. + </p> + <p> + "Well back in this grassy retreat, upon a little projection of earth that + elevates it above the surrounding surface, lies a huge granite boulder. In + connection with the surroundings it gives to the place the appearance of a + work of man, everything is so admirably arranged for a council chamber. + Here, it is rumored by tradition, the dusky warriors of the Sacs gathered + to listen in attentive silence to the words of their leader, Black Hawk, + who from his rocky rostrum addressed the motionless groups that strewed + the hill sides; motionless under his addresses and by them aroused to + deeds of darkness and crafty daring that made the name of their chief a + synonym with all things terrible. + </p> + <p> + "Whatever of truth this story may contain we cannot say, and it may be no + one knows. Certain it is, however, that Black Hawk's early history is + intimately linked and interwoven with that of our city, and in justice to + a brave man and a soldier, as well as a 'first settler' and a citizen, his + name and his last resting place should be rescued from the oblivion that + will soon enshroud them." + </p> + <p> + Another village has been commenced by the whites on the Mississippi river, + at Fort Madison, which is being built up very rapidly. The country, too, + is fast settling up by farmers, and as the Sacs have made a settlement on + the frontier farther west, on our old hunting grounds, he said he would + have to move farther back so as to be near his people; and on bidding us + farewell, said it might be the last time, as he was growing old, and the + distance would be too great from the point at which he intended to build a + house and open a little farm to make a visit on horseback, and as the Des + Moines river is always low in the fall of the year he could not come in + his canoe. + </p> + <p> + At the close of the summer of 1837 the President of the United States + invited deputations from several tribes Of Indians residing on the Upper + Mississippi to visit him at Washington. Among those who responded to his + invitation were deputations from the Sacs and Foxes and Sioux, who had + been at enmity, and between whom hostilities had been renewed, growing out + of their inhuman treatment of many of the women and children of the Sacs, + after they had made their escape from the battle of Bad Axe, at the close + of the war. + </p> + <p> + Keokuk, principal chief of the Sacs and Foxes, (by the advice of his + friend, Sagenash, Col. George Davenport, of Rock Island) invited Black + Hawk to join his delegation, which invitation he readily accepted, and + made one of the party; whilst the Sioux were represented by several of + their crafty chiefs. Several counsels were held, the object of which was + to establish peace between the Sacs and Foxes and Sioux, and in order to + perpetuate it, make a purchase of a portion of the country of the Sioux, + which territory should be declared neutral, and on which neither party + should intrude for any purpose; but the Sioux, whose domain extends far + and wide, would not consent to sell any of their land; hence nothing was + accomplished. + </p> + <p> + Before returning to their county the Sac and Fox delegation visited the + large cities in the East, in all of which Black Hawk attracted great + attention; but more particularly in Boston, as he did not visit it during + his former tour. The delegation embraced Keokuk, his wife and little son, + four chiefs of the nation, Black Hawk and son, and several warriors. Here + they were received and welcomed by the mayor of the city, and afterwards + by Governor Everett as the representative of the State. On the part of the + city, after a public reception, the doors of Faneuil Hall were opened to + their visitors to hold a levee for the visits of the ladies, and in a very + short time the "old cradle of liberty" was jammed full. + </p> + <p> + After dinner the delegation was escorted to the State House by a military + company, and on their arrival were conspicuously seated in front of the + Speakers' desk, the house being filled with ladies, members of the + legislature, and dignitaries of the city council. + </p> + <p> + Governor Everett then addressed the audience, giving a brief history of + the Sac and Fox tribe, whose principal chiefs (including the great war + chief) were then present, and then turning to them hi said: "Chiefs and + warriors of the united Sacs and Foxes, you are welcome to our hall of + council. Brothers, you have come a long way from your home to visit your + white brethren; we rejoice to take you by the hand. Brothers, we have + heard the names of your chiefs and warriors. Our brethren who have + traveled in the West have told us a great deal about the Sacs and Foxes. + We rejoice to see you with our own eyes. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +"Brothers, we are called the Massachusetts. This is the name of the red +men who once lived here. Their wigwams were scattered on yonder fields, +and their council fire was kindled on this spot. They were of the same +great race as the Sacs and Foxes. + + "Brothers, when our fathers came over the great water they were a +small band. The red man stood upon the rock by the seaside and saw our +fathers. He might have pushed them into the water and drowned them; but +he stretched out his hand to them and said: 'Welcome, white man.' Our +fathers were hungry, and the red man gave them corn and venison. They +were cold, and the red man wrapped them in his blanket. We are now +numerous and powerful, but we remember the kindness of the red men to +our fathers. Brothers, you are welcome; we are glad to see you. +</pre> + <p> + "Brothers, our faces are pale, and your faces are dark, but our hearts are + alike. The Great Spirit has made His children of different colors, but He + loves them all. + </p> + <p> + "Brothers, you dwell between the Mississippi and Missouri. They are mighty + rivers. They have one branch far East in the Alleghanies and another far + West in the Rocky Mountains, but they flow together at last into one great + stream and ran down into the sea. In like manner the red man dwells in the + West and the white man in the East, by the great water; but they are all + one band, one family. It has many branches; but one head. + </p> + <p> + "Brothers, as you entered our council house, you beheld the image of our + great father, Washington. It is a cold stone; it cannot speak to you, but + he was the friend of the red man, and bade his children live in friendship + with their red brethren. He is gone to the world of spirits, but his words + have made a very deep print in our hearts, like the step of a strong + buffalo on the soft clay of the prairie. + </p> + <p> + "Brother, (addressing Keokuk) I perceive your little son between your + knees. May the Great Spirit preserve his life, my brother. He grows up + before you, like the tender sapling by the side of the great oak. May they + flourish for a long time together; and when the mighty oak is fallen on + the ground may the young tree fill its place in the forest, and spread out + its branches over the tribe. + </p> + <p> + "Brothers, I make you a short talk and again bid you welcome to our + council hall." + </p> + <p> + Keokuk rose and made an eloquent address. Several of the other chiefs + spoke, and after them the old war chief, Black Hawk, on whom the large + crowd were looking with intense interest, arose and delivered a short but + dignified address. + </p> + <p> + Presents were then distributed to them by the Governor. Keokuk received a + splendid sword and a brace of pistols, his son a nice little rifle, the + other chiefs long swords, and Black Hawk a sword and brace of pistols. + </p> + <p> + After the close of ceremonies in the Capitol, the Indians gave a + exhibition of the war dance, in the common in front of the Capitol, in + presence of thirty thousand spectators, and then returned to their + quarters. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BLACK HAWK'S REMOVAL TO THE DES MOINES RIVER. + </h2> + <p> + Soon after his return from Boston he removed his family and little band + farther West, on the Des Moines river, near the storehouse of an Indian + trader, where he had previously erected a good house for his future home. + His family embraced his wife, two sons, Nashashuk and Gamesett, and an + only daughter and her husband. As he had given up the chase entirely—having + sufficient means from the annuities—he now turned his attention to + the improvement of his grounds, and soon had everything comfortably around + him. Here he had frequent visits from the whites, who came out in large + numbers to look at the country, many of whom called through curiosity to + see the great war chief, but all were made welcome and treated with great + hospitality. + </p> + <p> + In 1838 Fort Madison had grown to be a little village, and its inhabitants + were not only enterprising and industrious, but patriotic citizens. On the + 4th of July of that year they had a celebration and having known and + respected Black Hawk while residing in that part of the country, invited + him to join them as a guest on that occasion. + </p> + <p> + In reply to a letter of B.F. Drake, Esq., of Cincinnati, asking for such + incidents in the life of Black Hawk as he knew, Hon. W. Henry Starr, of + Burlington, Iowa, whom we knew for many years as a highly honorable and + intelligent gentleman, gave the following account of the celebration in + his reply, dated March 21, 1839: + </p> + <p> + "On the 4th of July, 1838, Black Hawk was present by special invitation, + and was the most conspicuous guest of the citizens assembled in + commemoration of that day. Among the toasts called forth by the occasion + was the following: + </p> + <p> + "'Our illustrious guest, Black Hawk: May his declining years be as calm + and serene as his previous life has been boisterous and full of warlike + incidents. His attachment and great friendship to his white brethren, + fully entitle him to a seat at our festive board.'" + </p> + <p> + "So soon as this sentiment was drank, Black Hawk arose and delivered the + following speech, which was taken down at the time by two interpreted, and + by them furnished for publication: + </p> + <p> + "It has pleased the Great Spirit that I am here to-day. I have eaten with + my white friends. The earth is our mother—we are now on it—with + the Great Spirit above us—it is good. I hope we are all friends + here. A few summers ago I was fighting against you—I did wrong, + perhaps; but that is past—it is buried—let it be forgotten. + </p> + <p> + "Rock river was a beautiful country—liked my towns, my cornfields, + and the home of my people. I fought for it. It is now yours—keep it + as we did—it will produce you good crops. + </p> + <p> + "I thank the Great Spirit that I am now friendly with my white brethren—we + are here together—we have eaten together—we are friends—it + is his wish and mine. I thank you for your friendship. + </p> + <p> + "I was once a great warrior-I am now poor. Keokuk has been the cause of my + present situation—but do not attach blame to him. I am now old. I + have looked upon the Mississippi since I have been a child. I love the + Great river. I have dwelt upon its banks from the time I was an infant. I + look upon it now. I shake hands with you, and as it is my wish, I hope you + are my friends.' + </p> + <p> + "In the course of the day he was prevailed upon to drink several times, + and became somewhat intoxicated, an uncommon circumstance, as he was + generally temperate. + </p> + <p> + "In the autumn of 1837, he was at the house of an Indian trader, in the + vicinity of Burlington, when I became acquainted and frequently convened + with him in broken English, and through the medium of gestures and + pantomine. A deep seated melancholy was apparent in his countenance, and + conversation. He endeavored to make me comprehend, on one occasion, his + former greatness, and represented that he was once master of the country, + east, north, and south of us—that he had been a very successful + warrior-called himself, smiting his breast, 'big Captain Black Hawk,' + 'nesso Kaskaskias,' (killed the Kaskaskias,) 'nesso Sioux a heap,' (killed + a great number of Sioux). He then adverted to the ingratitude of his + tribe, in permitting Keokuk to supercede him, who, he averred, excelled + him in nothing but drinking whisky. + </p> + <p> + "Toward Keokuk he felt the most unrelenting hatred. Keokuk was, however, + beyond his influence, being recognized as chief of the tribe by the + government of the United States. He unquestionably possessed talents of + the first order, excelled as an orator, but his authority will probably be + short-lived, on account of his dissipation and his profligacy in spending + the money paid him for the benefit of his tribe, and which he squanders + upon himself and a few favorites, through whose influence he seeks to + maintain his authority. + </p> + <p> + "You inquire if Black Hawk was at the battle of the Thames? On one + occasion I mentioned Tecumthe to him and he expressed the greatest joy + that I had heard of him, and pointing away to the East, and making a + feint, as if aiming a gun, said, 'Chemocoman (white man) nesso,' (kill.) + From which I had no doubt of his being personally acquainted with + Tecumthe, and I have been since informed, on good authority, that he was + in the battle of the Thames and in several other engagements with that + distinguished chief." + </p> + <p> + In September, 1838, he started with the head men of his little band to go + to Rock Island, the place designated by the Agent, to receive their + annuities, but was taken sick on the way and had to return to his home. He + was confined to his bed about two weeks, and on the 3d day of October, + 1838, he was called away by the Great Spirit to take up his abode in the + happy grounds of the future, at the age of seventy-one years. His devoted + wife and family were his only and constant attendants during his last + sickness, and when brought home sick, she had a premonition that he would + soon be called away. + </p> + <p> + The following account of his death and burial we take from the Burlington + Hawk-Eye, and as we knew the writer as a reliable gentleman, many years + ago, we have no doubt of it being strictly correct. + </p> + <p> + Captain James H. Jordan, a trader among the Sacs and Foxes before Black + Hawk's death, was present at his burial, and is now residing on the very + spot where he died. In reply to a letter of inquiry he writes as follows: + </p> + <p> + ELDON, Iowa, July 15, 1881. + </p> + <p> + Black Hawk was buried on the northeast quarter of the southeast quarter of + section 2, township 70, range 12, Davis county, Iowa, near the northeast + corner of the county, on the Des Moines river bottom, about ninety rods + from where he lived when he died, and the north side of the river. I have + the ground on which he lived for a door yard, it being between my house + and the river. The only mound over the gave was some puncheons split out + and set over his grave and then sodded over with blue gross, making a + ridge about four feet high. A flag-staff, some twenty feet high, was + planted at the head, on which was a silk flag, which hung there until the + wind wore it out. My house and his were only about four rods apart when he + died. He was sick only about fourteen days. He was buried right where he + sat the year before, when in council with Iowa Indians, and was buried in + a suit of military clothes, made to order and given to him when in + Washington City by General Jackson, with hat, sword, gold epaulets, etc., + etc. + </p> + <p> + The Annals of Iowa of 1863 and 1864 state that the old chief was buried by + laying his body on a board, his feet fifteen inches below the surface of + the ground, and his head raised three feet above the ground. He was + dressed in a military uniform, said to have been presented to him by a + member of General Jackson's cabinet, with a cap on his head ornamented + with feathers. On his left side was a sword presented him by General + Jackson; on his right side a cane presented to him by Henry Clay, and one + given to him by a British officer, and other trophies. Three medals hung + about his neck from President Jackson, ex-President John Quincy Adams and + the city of Boston, respectively. The body was covered with boards on each + side, the length of the body, which formed a ridge, with an open space + below; the gables being closed by boards, and the whole was covered with + sod. At the head was a flag-staff thirty-five feet high which bore an + American flag worn out by exposure, and near by was the usual hewn post + inscribed with Indian characters representing his war-like exploits, etc. + Enclosing all was a strong circular picket fence twelve feet high. His + body remained here until July, 1839, when it was carried off by a certain + Dr. Turner, then living at Lexington, Van Buren county, Iowa. Captain Horn + says the bones were carried to Alton, Ills., to be mounted with wire. Mr. + Barrows says they were taken to Warsaw, Ills. Black Hawk's sons, when they + heard of this desecration of their father's grave, were very indignant, + and complained of it to Governor Lucas of Iowa Territory, and his + excellency caused the bones to be brought back to Burlington in the fall + of 1839, or the spring of 1840. When the sons came to take possession of + them, finding them safely stored "in a good dry place" they left them + there. The bones were subsequently placed in the collection of the + Burlington Geological and Historical Society, and it is certain that they + perished in the fire which destroyed the building and all the society's + collections in 1855; though the editor of the Annals, (April, 1865, p. + 478) says there is good reason to believe that the bones were not + destroyed by the fire, and he is "creditably informed that they are now at + the residence of a former officer of said society and thus escaped that + catastrophe." + </p> + <p> + Another account, however, and probably a more reliable one, states that + the last remains of Black Hawk were consumed as stated, in the burning + building containing the collections and properties of the Burlington + Geological and Historical Society. + </p> + <p> + In closing this narrative of the life of this noble old chief it may be + but just to speak briefly of his personal traits. He was an Indian, and + from that standpoint we must judge him. The make-up of his character + comprised those elements in a marked degree which constitutes a noble + nature. In all the social relations of life he was kind and affable. In + his house he was the affectionate husband and father. He was free from the + many vices that others of his race had contracted from their associations + with the white people, never using intoxicating beverages to excess. As a + warrior he knew no fear, and on the field of battle his feats of personal + prowess stamped him as the "bravest of the brave." + </p> + <p> + But it was rather as a speaker and counsellor that he was distinguished. + His patriotism, his love of his country, his home, his lands and the + rights of his people to their wide domain, moved his great soul to take up + arms to protect the rights of his people. Revenge and conquest formed no + part of his purpose. <i>Right</i> was all that he demanded, and for <i>that</i> + he waged the unequal contests with the whites. With his tribe he had great + personal influence and his young men received his counsel and advice, and + yielded ready acquiescence in his admonitions. With other tribes he was + held in high esteem, as well as by English and American soldiers, who had + witnessed his prowess on the field of battle. + </p> + <p> + THE BLACK HAWK TOWER. + </p> + <p> + This favorite resort of Black Hawk, situated on the highest bank of Rock + river, had been selected by his father as a lookout, at the first building + up of their village. From this point they had an unobstructed view up and + down Rock river for many miles, and across the prairies as far as the + vision could penetrate, and since that country has been settled by the + whites, for more than half a century, has been the admiration of many + thousands of people. + </p> + <p> + The village of Black Hawk, including this grand "look out," was purchased + from the Government by Col. George Davenport, at Black Hawk's particular + request, for the reason, as he afterwards told us, that he could leave it + with an abiding assurance that the graves of their people would be + protected from vandal hands. + </p> + <p> + This property including hundreds of acres lying between Rock river and the + Mississippi, is now owned by Hon. B. Davenport, and as it has long been a + pleasure resort for picnic and other parties, he has erected an elegant + pavilion on its site, with a good residence for a family, who have charge + of it, which will now make it the finest pleasure resort in that part of + the country. And in order to make it more easy of access, he has + constructed a branch from the Rock Island and Milan railroad, leading + directly to the Tower. Now its many visitors in the future can sit on the + veranda, and while enjoying the elegant scenery, can take ease and comfort + in the cool shade. And for this high privilege the name of Davenport will + receive many hearty greetings. + </p> + <p> + Fifty years ago (1832) we made, our first visit to Black Hawk's Tower with + Col. George Davenport, and listened with intense interest to his recital + of scenes that had been enacted there may years before; and one year later + had them all repeated, with may more, from the lips of Black Hawk himself. + How changed the scene. Then it was in its rustic state, now this fine + pavilion, being a long, low structure, built somewhat after the Swiss + cottage plan, with broad sloping roofs, and wide, long porches on the + north and south sides, the one facing the road and the other fronting the + river and giving a view of a beautiful stretch of country up and down Rock + river, greatly enhances its beauty and adds much to the comfort of + visitors. + </p> + <p> + The following beautiful word paintings by a recent visitor to the Tower, + we take from the Rock Island Union: + </p> + <p> + BLACK HAWK'S WATCH TOWER. BY JENNIE M. FOWLER + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Beautiful tower! famous in history + Rich in legend, in old-time mystery, + Graced with tales of Indian lore, + Crowned with beauty from summit to shore. + + Below, winds the river, silent and still, + Nestling so calmly 'mid island and hill, + Above, like warriors, proudly and grand, + Tower the forest trees, monarchs of land. + + A land mark for all to admire and wonder, + With thy history ancient, for nations to ponder, + Boldly thou liftest they head to the breeze, + Crowned with they plumes, the nodding trees. + + Years are now gone—forever more fled, + Since the Indians crept, with cat-like tread, + With mocasined foot, with eagle eye— + The red men our foes in ambush lie. + + The owl, still his nightly vigil keeps, + While the river, below him, peacefully sleeps, + The whip-poor-will utters his plaintive cry, + The trees still whisper, and gently sigh. + + The pale moon still creeps from her daily rest, + Throwing her rays o'er the river's dark breast, + The katy-did and cricket, I trow, + In days gone by, chirruped, even as now. + + Indian! thy camp-fires no longer are smoldering, + They bones 'neath the forest moss long have been mouldering, + The "Great Spirit" claims thee. He leadeth they tribe, + To new hunting-grounds not won with a bribe. + + On thy Watch Tow'r the pale face his home now makes, + His dwelling, the site of the forest tree takes, + Gone are thy wigwams, the wild deer now fled, + Black Hawk, with his tribe, lie silent and dead. +</pre> + <p> + ROCK ISLAND, August 18, 1882. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE BLACK HAWK WAR. + </h2> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + On the 12th of April, 1832, soon after our arrival at Rock Island on a + visit to relatives, (the family of Col. Geo. Davenport) a steamboat came + down from Galena with officers to Fort Armstrong, for the purpose of + laying in supplies and medical stores for a brigade then being formed at + that place. One regiment, composed principally of miners, who had + abandoned their mines and came in to offer their services as soldiers in + the field, were unanimous in the election of Henry Dodge as Colonel. They + had long known him as a worthy, brave and accomplished gentleman, the soul + of honor, and hence would be an intrepid soldier. + </p> + <p> + Among the officers on this trip was Dr. A. K. Philleo, well known to Col. + Dodge as a social gentleman, a skilled physician and an accomplished + surgeon, who had accepted the position of surgeon at his urgent request, + with a <i>proviso:</i> Being editor of the <i>Galenian,</i> (the only + paper printed in the town) he considered the position a very important + one, as it was the only paper within hundreds of miles of the seat of war, + and the only one on the Mississippi above Alton, Ill.; hence he must + procure a substitute or decline the appointment of surgeon. Having made + his acquaintance after he had learned that we had been engaged in + newspaper life, he insisted that we should take a position on the <i>Galenian</i> + for a few weeks, or until the close of the war, so that he could accept + the offer of Col. Dodge, and seeing that he was a great favorite among the + officers, and anxious to go to the field, we accepted the position and + accompanied him to Galena the same evening. + </p> + <p> + Here we found an infantry regiment, commanded by Col. J.M. Strode, + composed principally of miners and citizens of Galena, which had been + hurriedly organized for home protection, whilst that of Col. Dodge, being + well mounted, were making preparations to take the field. After taking + charge of the <i>Galenian</i> we made the acquaintance of Col. Strode, and + found him to be a whole-souled Kentuckian, who advised us to enroll our + name on the company list of Capt. M. M. Maughs, and as our time would + mostly be devoted to the paper, he would detail us <i>Printer to the + Regiment,</i> by virtue of which appointment we would become an honorary + member of his staff. We retained our position on the paper and that on the + staff of the Colonel throughout the war, and was made the recipient of + dispatches of the regular movement of the army, its skirmishes and battles + from officers of the regular army as well as that of the volunteers, from + which we made our weekly report, and from these data we have made up most + of our history of the war. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FOX MURDERERS WANTED. + </h2> + <p> + Early in April, 1832, Brig.-General Atkinson, with about three hundred + troops, was ordered to Fort Armstrong to prevent a threatened war between + the Menominees and Fox Indians, on account of a massacre, committed by a + band of the latter on a small band of drunken Menominees the previous + summer at a point near Fort Crawford. To prevent bloodshed he was directed + to demand the murderers of the Foxes; but on arriving at Rock Island he + soon learned that there was imminent danger of a war of a different + character—that Black Hawk, with his entire band, was then on his way + to invade the State of Illinois and would probably be joined by the + Pottowattamies and Winnebagoes. In order to ascertain the facts in the + case, he called upon the Indian Agent and Col. George Davenport, both + located here, and requested them to furnish, in writing, all the + information they had in relation to the movements and intentions of Black + Hawk in coming to the State of Illinois. Both gentlemen replied to his + inquiries immediately as follows: + </p> + <p> + ROCK ISLAND, April 12, 1832. + </p> + <p> + My opinion is that the squaws and old men have gone to the Prophet's town, + on Rock river, and the warriors are now only a few miles below the mouth + of Rock river, within the limits of the State of Illinois. That these + Indians are hostile to the whites there is no doubt. That they have + invaded the State of Illinois, to the great injury of her citizens, is + equally true. Hence it is that that the public good requires that strong + as well as speedy measures should be taken against Black Hawk and his + followers. + </p> + <p> + Respectfully, I have the honor to be your obedient servant, + </p> + <p> + [Signed,] ANDREW S. HUGHES. + </p> + <p> + To Brig-Gen. Atkinson. + </p> + <p> + ROCK ISLAND, April 13, 1832. + </p> + <p> + "DEAR SIR:—In reply to your inquiry of this morning, respecting the + Indians, I have to state that I have been informed by the man I have + wintering with the Indians that the British band of Sac Indians are + determined to make war upon the frontier settlements. The British band of + Sac Indians did rendezvous at old Fort Madison, and induced a great many + of the young men to join them on their arrival at the Yellow Banks. They + crossed about five hundred head of horses into the State of Illinois, and + sent about seventy horses through the country toward Rock River. The + remainder, some on horseback the others in canoes, in a fighting order, + advanced up the Mississippi, and were encamped yesterday five or six miles + below Rock river and will no doubt endeavor to reach their stronghold in + the Rock river swamps if they are not intercepted. From every information + that I have received, I am of the opinion that the intentions of the + British band of Sac Indians is to commit depredations on the inhabitants + of the frontier." Respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE DAVENPORT. + [Signed,] "To Brig. Gen. Atkinson." + </p> + <p> + Being satisfied from the information thus acquired, that there was danger + ahead for the small settlements of whites in the Northern portion of the + State, he immediately addressed a letter to Gov. Reynolds, of Illinois, + from which we take the following: + </p> + <p> + FORT ARMSTRONG, April 13, 1832. + </p> + <p> + DEAR SIR:—The band of Sacs, under Black Hawk, joined by about one + hundred Kickapoos and a few Pottowattomies, amounting in all to about five + hundred men, have assumed a hostile attitude. They crossed the river at + the Yellow, Banks on the sixth inst., and are now moving up on the east + side of Rock river, towards the Prophet's village. + </p> + <p> + "The regular force under my command is too small to justify me in pursuing + the hostile party. To make an unsuccessful attempt to coerce them would + only irritate them to acts of hostility on the frontier sooner than they + probably contemplate. + </p> + <p> + "Your own knowledge of the character of these Indians, with the + information herewith submitted, will enable you to judge of the course + proper to pursue. I think the frontier is in great danger, and will use + all the means at my disposal to co-operate with you in its protection and + defense. With great respect, Your most obedient servant, H. ATKINSON, + Brigadier General of the U. S. Army, His Excellency, Gov. Reynolds, + Belleville, Ills." + </p> + <p> + On receipt of Gen. Atkinson's letter, Gov. Reynolds issued his + proclamation, calling out a strong detachment of militia to rendezvous at + Beardstown on the 22d of April. In obedience to this command a large + number of citizens assembled and offered their services. They were met by + Gov. Reynolds, and after bring organized into a brigade, he appointed + Brig. Gen. Samuel Whitesides commander. His brigade embraced 1600 horsemen + and two hundred footmen—being four regiments and an odd spy + battalion. + </p> + <p> + First regiment, Col. Dewitt; second, Col. Fry; third, Col. Thomas; fourth, + Col. Thompson; Col. James D. Henry, commanded the spy battalion. + </p> + <p> + The troops took up their line of march at once, under command of Gen. + Whitesides, accompanied by the Commander-in-Chief, Gov. Reynolds. For the + purpose of laying in provisions for the campaign they went to Yellow + Banks, on the Mississippi river, where Major S. S. Phelps, who had been + appointed quarter master, supplied them. They arrived on the 3d of May, + and left for Rock river on the 7th. + </p> + <p> + THE BLACK HAWK WAR. + </p> + <p> + About the first of April Black Hawk's band assembled at Fort Madison for + the purpose of making arrangements to ascend the Mississippi, and soon + after the entire party started. The old men, women and children, with + their provisions and camp equipage, in canoes, and the men all armed, came + on horseback. On the sixth day of April, the braves, on horseback, made a + call at Yellow Banks, one day after the canoes had passed the same point, + and told Josiah Smart, Mr. Phelps' interpreter, where they were going, and + the object of their visit. They said they had observed a great war chief, + with a number of troops going up on a steamboat, and thought it likely + that the mission of this war chief was to prevent them going up Rock + river, but they were bound to go. Messrs. Phelps and Smart tried to + persuade them to recross the river and return to their country, assuring + them that the Government would not permit them to come into Illinois in + violation of the treaty they had made last year, in which they had agreed + to remain on the west side of the river. But they would not listen to + their advice. On the next day they took up the line of march for Rock + river, and on the 10th of April, 1832, Black Hawk, with a portion of his + band of Sacs, reached the mouth of Rock river a few miles below Rock + Island. The old men, women and children with their provisions and camp + equipage, who came up in canoes, arrived on the 9th, and the men all + armed, came up on horseback, reaching the camp on the 10th. While encamped + there they were joined by the Prophet, who had previously invited them to + come up to the country of the Winnebagoes and raise a crop. He called on + his way at Fort Armstrong and had talks with the Agent and Col. Davenport, + the trader, both of whom advised him to persuade Black Hawk and party to + return to their own country, or they would be driven back by the soldiers + then at Fort Armstrong, under the command of Gen. Atkinson, who had just + arrived. The Prophet would not listen to their advice, but assured Black + Hawk that he had a right to go forward with his entire party to the + Winnebago country; and as he expected large reinforcements to his little + army as he ascended Rock river, he was determined to go forward, but had + given positive orders to his band, under no circumstances, to strike a + blow until they had been reinforced by warriors from the Winnebagoes and + Pottowattomies. + </p> + <p> + Early next morning they broke camp and started up Rock river, but were + soon overtaken by a small detachment of soldiers, who held a council with + Black Hawk and communicated to him the orders of Gen. Atkinson. These were + for him to return with his band and re-cross the Mississippi. Black Hawk + said, as he was not on the war path, but going on a friendly visit to the + Prophet's village, he intended to go forward, and continued on his + journey. On receipt of his answer, Gen. Atkinson sent another detachment + to Black Hawk with imperative orders for him to return, or he would pursue + him with his entire army and drive him back. In reply, Black Hawk said the + General had no right to make the order so long as his band was peaceable, + and that he intended to go on to the Prophet's village. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the forces under the command of Gen. Whitesides had + arrived, and were turned over to Gen. Atkinson by the Governor. The + brigade, under the command of Gen. Whitesides, was ordered up Rock river + to Dixon's Ferry, and as soon as boats could be got ready, Gen. Atkinson + started for the same destination with 300 regulars and about the same + number of Illinois militia. Black Hawk with his party had already reached + a point some thirty or forty miles above Dixon's Ferry, where they were + met in council by some Pottowattomies and Winnebago chiefs. They assured + Black Hawk that their people would not join him in making war against the + United States, and denied the Prophet's story to him. During this council + Black Hawk became convinced that he had been badly imposed upon by the + Prophet, and resolved at once to send a flag of truce to Gen. Atkinson and + ask permission to descend Rock river, re-cross the Mississippi and go back + to their country. + </p> + <p> + STILLMAN'S DEFEAT. + </p> + <p> + About this time, Gen. Whitesides had concentrated a large force of militia + at Dixon's Ferry, and at the solicitation of Major Stillman, permitted him + to take out a scouting party of nearly 300 mounted men. They went up Rock + river, about thirty miles to Sycamore creek, and encamped within a few + miles of Black Hawk's camp, but were not aware of its position at the + time. Indian scouts having intercepted their coming reported at once to + Black Hawk that a large army of mounted militia were coming towards his + camp; and before the volunteers had entirely completed their arrangements + for encampment, outside guards espied three Indians coming in with a white + flag. After holding a parley with them, (one of the guards being able to + talk a little with them in their own language), they were hurried into + camp, and before any explanations were made, the flag bearer was shot and + instantly killed, whilst his comrades made their escape during the + confusion in getting the regiment ready to pursue the fleeing Indians. + These had secreted themselves in ambush as the army rushed by, helter + skelter, after another small party of Indians who had followed the flag + bearers, and who, when hearing the uproar in camp made a hasty retreat. + The entire regiment was soon mounted and started out in squads towards the + camp of Black Hawk. The latter having learned by a scout that the army was + coming, started at once with less than fifty mounted warriors, his entire + force then in camp, to meet the enemy, and on arriving at a copse of + timber and underbrush near Sycamore creek, made ready to meet them. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Eads' company, who were the first to start out, killed two of the + five fleeing Indians. Soon after crossing Sycamore creek they were + surprised by a terrific war whoop from the Indians, who were concealed in + the bushes near by, and with deadly aim commenced firing into the front + ranks of the regiment, and with unearthly yells (as one of the fleeing + party told us on arriving at Galena), charged upon our ranks, with + tomahawks raised, ready to slaughter all who might come within their + reach. Judging from the yelling of the Indians, their number was variously + estimated at from one thousand to two thousand. + </p> + <p> + The entire party was thrown into such confusion that Major Stillman had no + control of any of them, and, with one exception, the entire army continued + their flight to Dixon's Ferry, thirty miles distant, whilst some went back + to their homes. + </p> + <p> + The retreating army passed through their camping ground near Sycamore + creek, where they should have halted, and under cover of the timber, could + have shot down their pursuers while yet in open prairie. Black Hawk and a + small portion of his command gave up the chase, and returned to his camp, + while the remainder pursued the fugitives for several miles, occasionally + overtaking and killing some soldiers, whose horses had given out. + </p> + <p> + Among the retreating party was a Methodist preacher, whose horse was too + slow to keep out of the reach of the Indians, who adopted a novel plan to + save himself and horse. On coming to a ravine he left the track of his + pursuers name distance, and followed down the ravine until he found a + place deep enough to shelter himself and horse from view, and remained + there for two hours in safety. He had the precaution to keep a strict + count of the Indians as they went forward, and waited their return. Being + satisfied that all had returned and continued on the way to their camp, he + quietly left his hiding place, trotted leisurely along and reached Dixon's + Ferry about sunrise next morning. + </p> + <p> + He reported his mode of procedure and the strategy used to render his + safety certain from the Indians who had dispersed and driven the army + before them. He was interrogated into the number, and when he reported + TWENTY, great indignation was manifested by some of the <i>brave</i> + volunteers who had got into camp some hours before him, and reported the + number at fifteen hundred to two thousand! But as he was well known to + many of the volunteers and highly respected as a meek and lowly Christian + gentleman, they stood by him and prevented any personal violence. + </p> + <p> + When the report of this fiasco came into Galena the next morning about 8 + o'clock, on the 15th of May, our regiment was immediately called to arms, + as great danger was apprehended by the citizens. The general supposition + was that the Pottowattomies and Winnebagoes had joined Black Hawk, it + being well known that his entire band, including women and children, that + had gone up Rock river, did not exceed one thousand persons. Dwellings + were vacated and most of the inhabitants repaired to the stockades for + safety. + </p> + <p> + The news of Stillman's defeat "by 2,000 blood-thirsty Indian warriors" + spread fast, far and wide, and the Governor of Illinois called for more + volunteers; and when the news reached Washington, the Secretary of War + ordered Gen. Scott, then at New York, to take a thousand soldiers and + proceed to the seat of war and take command of the army. + </p> + <p> + This violation of a flag of truce, the wanton murder of its bearers, and + the attack upon a mere remnant of Black Hawk's band when sueing for peace, + precipitated a war that should have been avoided. + </p> + <p> + [In confirmation of the dastardly act of the volunteers in killing the + bearer of a white flag, and by which the war was precipitated, we give the + following letter of Mr. Elijah Kilbourn, one of the scouts connected with + Stillman's command. Mr. K. is the man Black Hawk makes mention of in his + narrative as having been taken captive during our last war with Great + Britain, and by him adopted into the Sac tribe; and again taken prisoner + by three of his braves at the battle of Sycamore creek.] + </p> + <p> + KILBOURN'S NARRATIVE. A REMINISCENCE OF BLACK HAWK. + </p> + <p> + [From the Soldier's Cabinet.] + </p> + <p> + Much has been said both for and against the Indian character; but we doubt + whether greater or nobler qualities have ever been exhibited in the + conduct of civilized rulers or commanders than are shown in the incidents + we are about to relate concerning Black Hawk, whose deeds upon the + northwestern frontier will render his name illustrious while history + exists. + </p> + <p> + Elijah Kilbourn, the subject of the great chieftain's kindness, and to + whom we are indebted for the present sketch, was a native of Pennsylvania. + Just before the outbreak of the late war with Great Britain, he left the + place of his birth to join the stirring scenes of adventure on the + borders; and although now an old man, he still remembers, and loves to + recount, the deed, and perils of his younger days, and especially those we + are about to record. + </p> + <p> + "We had been," commenced Kilbourn, in whose own language the story shall + be given, "scouting through the country that lay about Fort Stephenson, + when early one morning one of our number came in with the intelligence + that the Fort was besieged by a combined force of British and Indians. We + were very soon after in our saddles, bearing down with all speed in that + direction for the express purpose of joining in the fight—but on + arriving, we found that the enemy had been signally repulsed by the brave + little garrison under the command of Major Crogan. Our disappointment at + learning this was, however, in a measure lessened, when we learned that + Black Hawk, the leader of the savages, had, soon after the termination of + the battle, gone with some twenty of his warriors back to his village on + Rock river, whither we instantly determined to follow him. + </p> + <p> + "At sunrise the next morning we were on his trail, and followed it with + great care to the banks of a stream. Here we ascertained that the savages + had separated into nearly equal parties—the one keeping straight + down the banks of the stream, while the other had crossed to the other + side and continued on toward Rock river. A council was now held, in which + the oldest members of our party gave it as their opinion that Black Hawk + had changed his intention of going to his village, and had, with the + greater part of his followers, pursued his way down the stream, while the + rest had been sent by him for some purpose to the town. In this opinion + all coincided; but still our leader, who was a very shrewd man, had some + doubts on his mind concerning the movements of the chief, and therefore, + to make everything sure, he detailed four of us to follow the trail across + the stream, while he with the rest, some seven or eight in number, + immediately took the one down the bank. + </p> + <p> + "We soon after found ourselves alone and in the vicinity of Indian + settlements, and we were therefore obliged to move with the utmost + caution, which had the effect of rendering our progress extremely slow. + During the course of the following morning we came across a great many + different trails and by these we were so perplexed that we resolved to + return to the main body; but from the signs we had already seen we knew + that such a step would be attended with the greatest risk, and so it was + at last decided that it would be far more safe for all hands to separate, + and each man look out for himself. This resolve was no sooner made than it + was put into execution, and a few minutes later found me alone in the + great wilderness. I had often been so before, but never before had I been + placed in a situation as dangerous as the present one, for now on all + sides I was surrounded by foes, who would rejoice in the shedding of my + blood. But still I was not gong to give up easily, and looking well to my + weapons and redoubling my caution, I struck off at an angle from the + course I had first chosen, why I hardly knew. + </p> + <p> + "I encountered nothing very formidable till some two hours before sunset, + when, just as I emerged from a tangled thicket, I perceived an Indian on + his knees at a clear, sparkling spring, from which he was slaking his + thirst. Instinctively I placed my rifle to my shoulder, drew a bead upon + the savage and pulled the trigger. Imagine, if you can, my feelings as the + flint came down and was shivered to pieces while the priming remained + unignited. + </p> + <p> + "The next moment the savage was up on his feet, his piece levelled + directly at me and his finger pressing the trigger. There was no escape; I + had left my horse in the woods some time before. The thicket behind me was + too dense to permit me to enter it again quickly, and there was no tree + within reach of sufficient size to protect me from the aim of my foe, who, + now finding me at his mercy, advanced, his gun still in its threatening + rest, and ordered me to surrender. Resistance and escape were alike out of + the question, and I accordingly delivered myself up his prisoner, hoping + by some means or other to escape at some future period. He now told me, in + good English, to proceed in a certain direction. I obeyed him, and had not + gone a stone's throw before, just as I turned a thick clump of trees, I + came suddenly upon an Indian camp, the one to which my captor undoubtedly + belonged. + </p> + <p> + "As we came up all the savages, some six or eight in number, rose quickly + and appeared much surprised at my appearing thus suddenly amongst their + number; but they offered me no harm, and they behaved with most marked + respect to my captor, whom, upon a close inspection, I recognized to be + Black Hawk himself. + </p> + <p> + "'The White mole digs deep, but Makataimeshekiakiak (Black Hawk) flies + high and can see far off,' said the chieftain is a deep, gutteral tone, + addressing me. + </p> + <p> + "He then related to his followers the occasion of my capture, and as he + did so they glared on me fiercely and handled their weapons in a + threatening manner, but at the conclusion of his remarks they appeared + better pleased, although I was the recipient of many a passing frown. He + now informed me that he had told his young men that they were to consider + me a brother, as he was going to adopt me into the tribe. + </p> + <p> + "This was to me but little better than death itself, but there was no + alternative and so I was obliged to submit, with the hope of making my + escape at some future time. The annunciation of Black Hawk, moreover, + caused me great astonishment, and after pondering the matter I was finally + forced to set down as its cause one of those unaccountable whims to which + the savage temperment is often subject. + </p> + <p> + "The next morning my captors forced me to go with them to their village on + Rock river, where, after going through a tedious ceremony, I was dressed + and painted, and thus turned from a white man into an Indian. + </p> + <p> + "For nearly three years ensuing it was my constant study to give my + adopted brothers the slip, but during the whole of that time I was so + carefully watched and guarded that I never found an opportunity to escape. + </p> + <p> + "However, it is a long lane that has no turning, and so it proves in my + case. Pretending to be well satisfied with my new mode of life, I at last + gained upon the confidence of the savages, and one day when their + vigilance was considerably relaxed, I made my escape and returned in + safety to my friends, who had mourned for me as dead. + </p> + <p> + "Many years after this I was a participant in the battle at Sycamore + Creek, which, as you know, is a tributary of Rock river. I was employed by + the government as a scout, in which capacity it was acknowledged that I + had no superior; but I felt no pride in hearing myself praised, for I knew + I was working against Black Hawk, who, although he was an Indian, had once + spared my life, and I was one never to forget a kindness. And besides this + I had taken a great liking to him, for there was something noble and + generous in his nature. However, my first duty was to my country, and I + did my duty at all hazards. + </p> + <p> + "Now you must know that Black Hawk, after moving west of the Mississippi, + had recrossed, contrary to his agreement, not, however, from any hostile + motive, but to raise a crop of corn and beans with the Pottowattomies and + Winnebagoes, of which his own people stood in the utmost need. With this + intention he had gone some distance up Rock river, when an express from + General Atkinson ordered him peremptorily to return. This order the old + chief refused to obey, saying that the General had no right to issue it. A + second express from Atkinson threatened Black Hawk that if he did not + return peaceably, force would be resorted to. The aged warrior became + incensed at this and utterly refused to obey the mandate, but at the same + time sent word to the General that he would not be the first one to + commence hostilities. + </p> + <p> + "The movement of the renowned warrior was immediately trumpeted abroad as + an invasion of the State, and with more rashness thin wisdom, Governor + Reynolds ordered the Illinois militia to take the field, and these were + joined by the regulars, under General Atkinson, at Rock Island. Major + Stillman, having under his command two hundred and seventy-five mounted + men, the chief part of whom were volunteers, while a few like myself were + regular scouts, obtained leave of General Whitesides, then lying at + Dixon's Ferry, to go on a scouting expedition. + </p> + <p> + "I knew well what would follow; but still, as I was under orders, I was + obliged to obey, and together with the rest proceeded some thirty miles up + Rock river to where Sycamore creek empties into it. This brought us to + within six or eight miles of the camp of Black Hawk, who, on that day—May + 14th-was engaged in preparing a dog feast for the purpose of fitly + celebrating a contemplated visit of some Pottawattomie chiefs. + </p> + <p> + "Soon after preparing to camp we saw three Indians approach us bearing a + white flag; and these, upon coming up, were made prisoners. A second + deputation of five were pursued by some twenty of our mounted militia, and + two of them killed, while the other three escaped. One of the party that + bore the white flag was, out of the most cowardly vindictiveness, shot + down while standing a prisoner in camp. The whole detachment, after these + atrocities, now bore down upon the camp of Black Hawk, whose braves, with + the exception of some forty or fifty, were away at a distance. + </p> + <p> + "As we rode up, a galling and destructive fire was poured in upon us by + the savages, who, after discharging their guns, sprung from their coverts + on either side, with their usual horrible yells, and continued the attack + with their tomahawks and knives. My comrades fell around me like leaves; + and happening to cast my eyes behind me, I beheld the whole detachment of + militia flying from the field. Some four or five of us were left unsupported + in the very midst of the foe, who, renewing their yells, rushed down upon + us in a body. Gideon Munson and myself were taken prisoners, while others + were instantly tomahawked and scalped. Munson, during the afternoon, + seeing, as he supposed, a good opportunity to escape, recklessly attempted + to do so, but was immediately shot down by his captor. And I now began to + wish that they would serve me in the same manner, for I knew that if + recognized by the savages, I should be put to death by the most horrible + tortures. Nothing occurred, however, to give me any real uneasiness upon + this point till the following morning, when Black Hawk, passing by me, + turned and eyed me keenly for a moment or so. Then, stepping close to me, + he said in a low tone: <i>'Does the mole think that Black Hawk forgets?'</i> + </p> + <p> + "Stepping away with a dignified air, he now left me, as you may well + suppose, bordering in despair, for I knew too well the Indian character to + imagine for a single instant that my life would be spared under the + circumstances. I had been adopted into the tribe by Black Hawk, had lived + nearly three years among them, and by escaping had incurred their + displeasure, which could only be appeased with my blood. Added to this, I + was now taken prisoner at the very time that the passions of the savages + were most highly wrought upon by the mean and cowardly conduct of the + whites. I therefore gave up all hope, and doggedly determined to meet + stoically my fate. + </p> + <p> + "Although the Indians passed and repassed me many times during the day, + often bestowing on me a buffet or a kick, yet not one of them seemed to + remember me as having formerly been one of the tribe. At times this + infused me with a faint hope, which was always immediately after + extinguished, as I recalled to mind my recognition by Black Hawk himself. + </p> + <p> + "Some two hours before sunset Black Hawk again came to where I was bound, + and having loosened the cords with which I was fastened to a tree, my arms + still remaining confined, bade me follow him. I immediately obeyed him, + not knowing what was to be my doom, though I expected none other than + death by torture. In silence we left the encampment, not one of the + savages interfering with us or offering me the slightest harm or + indignity. For nearly an hour we strode on through the gloomy forest, now + and then starting from its retreat some wild animal that fled upon our + approach. Arriving at a bend of the river my guide halted, and turning + toward the sun, which was rapidly setting, he said, after a short pause: + </p> + <p> + "'I am going to send you back to your chief, though I ought to kill you + for running away a long time ago, after I had adopted you as a son—but + Black Hawk can forgive as well as fight. When you return to your chief I + want you to tell him all my words. Tell him that Black Hawk's eyes have + looked upon many sum, but they shall not see many more; and that his back + is no longer straight, as in his youth, but is beginning to bend with age. + The Great Spirit has whispered among the tree tops in the morning and + evening and says that Black Hawk's days are few, and that he is wanted in + the spirit land. He is half dead, his arm shakes and is no longer strong, + and his feet are slow on the war path. Tell him all this, and tell him, + too,' continued the untutored hero of the forest, with trembling emotion + and marked emphasis, 'that Black Hawk would have been a friend to the + whites, but they would not let him, and that the hatchet was dug up by + themselves and not by the Indians. Tell your chief that Black Hawk meant + no harm to the pale faces when he came across the Mississippi, but came + peaceably to raise corn for his starving women and children, and that even + then he would have gone back, but when he sent his white flag the braves + who carried it were treated like squaws and one of them inhumanly shot. + Tell him too,' he concluded with terrible force, while his eyes fairly + flashed fire, <i>'that Black Hawk will have revenge,</i> and that he will + never stop until the Great Spirit shall say to him, <i>'come away.'</i> + </p> + <p> + "Thus saying he loosened the cord that bound my arms, and after giving me + particular directions as to the best course to pursue to my own camp, bade + me farewell and struck off into the trackless forest, to commence that + final struggle which was decided against the Indians. + </p> + <p> + "After the war was over, and the renowned Black Hawk had been taken + prisoner, he was sent to Washington and the largest cities of the + seaboard, that he might be convinced how utterly useless it was for him to + contend against fate. It was enough, and the terrible warrior returned to + the seclusion of his wilderness home, while the scepter of his + chieftainship was given to the celebrated Keokuk. + </p> + <p> + "On the occasion of the ceremony by which Black Hawk was shorn of his + power, and which took place on Rock Island, in the Mississippi, I shook + the hand of the great chief, who appeared highly pleased to meet me once + more; and upon parting with me he said with mournful dignity, as he cast + above him a glance of seeming regret: 'My children think I am too old to + lead them any more!' + </p> + <p> + "This was the last time I ever saw him; and the next I learned of him was + that he had left his old hunting grounds forever, and his spirit had gone + to that bar where the balance will be rightly adjusted between the child + of the forest and his pale face brethren." + </p> + <p> + Although the Winnebagoes and the Pottowattomies had resolved to take no + part in the war, a few young men from each of these tribes, being + emboldened by Black Hawk's victory in the engagement with Stillman's + regiment, concluded to join him. As the party moved up the river, war + parties were sent out, in one of which the Winnebagoes joined, whilst the + Pottowattomies, some twenty-five or thirty, went alone on the war path + into a settlement that had been made on Indian creek, not far from its + entrance into Fox river, and killed fifteen men, women and children, and + took two young ladies prisoners, the Misses Hall, whom two young Sacs, who + had just rode up, took upon their horses and carried them to a Winnebago + camp, with a request that they be delivered to the whites. They were + returned soon after, and to the writer said they had been well treated by + the Winnebagoes. + </p> + <p> + On the 19th of Jane a message came into Galena from Kellogg's Grove, with + a report that a party of Indians had been seen in that neighborhood and + that they had stolens some horses. Captain James Stephenson, with twelve + picked men from his company, started immediately in pursuit of the + Indians. On seeing him approach they took to the brush, when the Captain + and his men dismounted. Leaving one to hold the horses, the balance + entered the thicket, and two of them were killed at the first fire of the + Indians, while three of the enemy were laid prostrate. For the purpose of + re-loading, Capt. Stephenson ordered a retreat, which was a bad move, as + it gave the Indians time to re-load and seek trees for safety. Capt. + Stephenson* and party again advanced, both parties firing simultaneously, + each losing a man, when an Indian who had been secreted behind a tree + rushed forward with his knife, but was suddenly checked by one of the + soldiers running his bayonet through him. While in this position he seized + the bayonet with both hands and had almost succeeded in pushing it out, + when another soldier rushed forward, and with one stroke of his knife + almost severed the head from his body. In this engagement Capt. S. lost + three of the best men of his company and the Indians five, just one-half + of their number. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Capt. Stephenson was held in high estimation as a brave + and accomplished gentleman, and at the organization of Rock + Island county the county commissioners honored his name by + calling the county seat Stephenson, which name it retained + until after his death, when that of Rock Island was adopted. +</pre> + <p> + On the return of Capt. Stephenson and party the news of his loss of three + men, who were well known and highly respected, soon spread over town and + caused much sorrow among their many friends. After learning the mode of + attack, military men generally criticized it severely. + </p> + <p> + BATTLE OF PECATONICA. + </p> + <p> + On the 14th of June, a mall scouting party of Sacs killed five men at the + Spafford farm, and on reception of the news next day, Gen. Atkinson + ordered Col. Henry Dodge to take command of Posey's brigade, then + stationed near Fort Hamilton, and while on his way from Fort Union, where + his regiment was in camp, to visit the brigade, he heard the sharp crack + of a rifle, and instantly looking in the direction of the sound, saw a man + fall from his horse, who had been shot by Indians nearby. Instead of going + forward as he set out to do, he hastily returned to his command, mustered + a portion of his cavalry and went in pursuit of the Indians, and soon got + on the trail of twenty-five warriors, who had commenced their retreat soon + after shooting, and espying him, hastened back to the front. The Indians + crossed and recrossed the Pecatonica river several times, being closely + pushed by Col. Dodge and his men, and finding escape hopeless, made a + stand. The colonel immediately dismounted his men and picked his way + cautiously, with the intention of firing and then charging upon them. But + the Indians, being on the lookout, watched their opportunity and got the + first fire, by which a brave soldier named Apple was killed, and another + by the name of Jenkins was wounded. The fight continued vigorously until + the last Indian was killed, several of them having been shot while trying + to escape by swimming. At the commencement of the fight, the forces on + each side were nearly equal, but the Indians, in swimming the river, had + got their powder wet, and although they made desperate efforts to close in + on our men with knives, they were shot down in their endeavors. + </p> + <p> + Col. Dodge, in speaking of this engagement, at Galena, after the close of + the war, said he was amazed at the desperation displayed by a big, burly + brave, who came towards him with gun at his shoulder and halted quickly + when only a few paces from him, drew the trigger, and was sorely + disappointed in his gun not going off. Quick as thought the colonel + brought his rifle in position, pulled the trigger, but, owing to the + dampness of the powder, it failed to go off. In the meantime the brave was + coming towards him, knife in hand and desperation in his eye, and when + only a few feet from him the colonel shot him down with his revolver. At + the same time one of his brave boys, by the name of Beach, was engaged in + a desperate encounter with the last remaining savage, in which both used + knives; the Indian was killed and Beach very badly wounded. + </p> + <p> + Thus ended one of the most sanguinary engagements of the war. + </p> + <p> + FIGHT AT APPLE RIVER FORT. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Capt. A.W. Snyder's Company, of Col. Henry's Regiment, was detailed +to guard the country between Galena and Fox and Rock rivers, and was +surprised on the night of the 17th of June, while encamped in the +vicinity of Burr Oak Grove. His sentinels, while on duty, were fired +upon by Indians, who did not deem it prudent to continue the attack, but +immediately fled. As soon as it was light enough next morning to follow +their trail, Capt. Snyder started with his company, but on reaching +their camp, found that they had fled on his approach. He redoubled his +speed and continued on their trail until he overtook them. Finding that +there was no escape, the Indians got into a deep gully for protection, +but were soon surrounded, when Capt. Snyder ordered his men to charge +upon them. The Indians fired as they approached and mortally wounded one +of his men, Mr. William B. Mekemson, a brave volunteer from St. Clair +county, (whose father's family afterwards settled in this, Henderson +county, all of whom, except one brother, Andrew, a highly respected +Christian gentleman, have, long since, gone to meet their kinsman in +another world.) Mr. M. being unable to ride, a rude litter was made and +men detailed to carry him back to camp, at Kellogg's Grove. The company +had not proceeded far before they were attacked by about seventy-five +Indians, and two men, Scott and McDaniel, killed, and a Mr. Cornelius +wounded. The company was soon formed into line by the aid of Gen. +Whiteside, who was then acting merely as a private, and using the +precaution of Indians, each man got behind a tree, and the battle waxed +furiously for sometime without any serious results, until the Indian +commander was seen to fall, from the well directed aim of Gen. +Whiteside's rifle. Having now no leader the Indians ingloriously fled, +but for some reason were not pursued. Our reporter, however, said that +most of the company refused, for the reason that the second term of +their enlistment had expired, and they were anxious to be mustered out +of service, although the officers were eager to pursue. + + The company then commenced their march to camp, and on approaching +the litter on which Mekemson lay, found that the Indians had cut off his +head and rolled it down the hill. Soon after, Major Riley, with a small +force of regulars, came up, and after consultation with Capt. Snyder, +it was deemed best not to follow the retreating Indians, as their route +probably led to the main army of Black Hawk. +</pre> + <p> + APPLE RIVER FORT. + </p> + <p> + On the 23d of June scouts came into Galena, and reported at headquarters + that a large body of Indians had been seen about thirty miles distant, but + not being on the march, they were not able to conjecture to what point + they were going. Col. Strode immediately made all necessary preparations + to receive them, should Galena be the point of attack, and dispatched an + express early next morning for Dixon's Ferry. On their arrival at Apple + River Fort they halted for a short time, and then proceeded on their + journey, and while yet in sight, at the crack of a gun the foremost man + was seen to fall from his horse and two or three Indians rushed upon him + with hatchets raised ready to strike, while his comrades galloped up, and + with guns pointed towards the Indians kept them at bay until the wounded + man reached the Fort. But had the Indians known these guns were <i>not + loaded,</i> (as afterwards reported) they could have dispatched all three + of them with their tomahawks. + </p> + <p> + In a very short time after hearing the crack of the gun a large body of + Indians surrounded the fort, yelling and shooting, when the inmates, under + command of Capt. Stone, prepared for defence, every port hole being manned + by sharp-shooters. One man, Mr. George Herclurode, was shot through a port + hole and instantly killed, and Mr. James Nutting wounded in the same way, + but not seriously; which was the only loss sustained during the engagement + of more than one hour's duration. A number of Indians were wounded and + carried off the field. Capt. Stone had only twenty-five men, with a large + number of women and children in the fort, but had providentially received + a quantity of lead and provisions from Galena only an hour before the + attack, and as he was short of bullets, the ladies of the fort busied + themselves in melting lead and running balls as long as the battle lasted. + Black Hawk, finding the fort impregnable from assault without firing it—an + act that he well knew would, in a very short time, have brought a large + body of troops on his path—concluded that it would be better to + return and carry with them all the flour they could, killed a number of + cattle and took choice pieces of beef, and all the homes that were in the + stable. One of the expressmen, not deeming the fort a place of safety, + hurried back to Galena, but getting lost on the way did not get in until + early next morning. On hearing the news, Col. Strode took one hundred + picked men, well mounted, and went to the relief of the fort, and was much + gratified to find that its noble defenders had put to flight about one + hundred and fifty Indians who had been under the command of Black Hawk + himself. + </p> + <p> + KELLOGG'S GROVE FORT. + </p> + <p> + After leaving Apple River Fort, being well supplied with provisions, the + Indians moved leisurely toward the fort at Kellogg's Grove, with the + intention of taking it, as scouts had come in and reported that it was not + very strongly garrisoned on the day previous to their arrival on the 23d + of June. At this time the Illinois troops were rendez-voused at a place + known as Fort Wilbourn on the Illinois river, at or near where now stands + the city of LaSalle. What was then called the new levy, after Stillman's + defeat, were assembled there, numbering about three thousand men, being + formed into military organizations consisting of three brigades. The first + brigade was commanded by Gen. Alexander Posey. The second by Gen. M. K. + Alexander, and the third by Gen. James D. Henry. Major John Dement, of + Vandalia, was elected to the command of a spy battalion composed of three + companies. Gen. Atkinson, of the United States Regulars, commanding, while + these organizations were progressing. + </p> + <p> + The Indians had made a raid on Bureau creek, situated between the Illinois + and Rock rivers. John Dement had been chosen major by the members of three + companies of Gen. Posey's brigade, which was a spy battalion. The Major's + battalion being ready for duty when the news reached the fort of the + attack upon the settles on Bureau creek, it was ordered to march at once + to the scene of danger for protection of the settlers, and to discover and + watch the movements of the Indians, if possible. The Major was ordered to + scour the country through to Rock river, and then to report to Col. + Zackary Taylor, who commanded a small force of United States troops at a + small fortification at Dixon's Ferry on Rock river. + </p> + <p> + On the 22d of June, 1832, Major Dement reached Colonel Taylor's command, + having performed the duties to which he was assigned by General Atkinson. + On his arrival Colonel Taylor informed the Major that he had arrived at an + opportune time, as he wished him to take his command, swim their horses + across the river, and promptly occupy the country between his position and + the Lead Mines at Galena, a distance of about sixty miles, with + headquarters at Kellogg's Grove, thirty-seven miles in the direction of + Galena and Apple River Fort. There had been stationed at the grove two + companies of Regulars, commanded by Major Riley, and three companies of + Volunteers that had abandoned this position the day before the arrival of + Major Dement, and left the country without protection and entirely + unguarded. These troops had been engaged in two or three skirmishes with + the Indians, and according to the reports of the soldiers, had been + worsted in each. Major Dement's command numbered one hundred and forty + men, all told, not one of whom had ever seen any military experience, but + they were men to be relied upon. They were citizen soldiers, brave and + intelligent, equal to any emergency, and had no superiors in the service. + This being an odd battalion, Major Dement was entitled to the staff of a + Colonel. His staff was composed of Zadoc Casey, Paymaster; ——— + Anderson, Colonel Hicks, and others. The Captains of the companies, and + the staff officers, were leading citizens, who had, at short warning, left + their several avocations to engage in defending the country against the + attacks of the Indians. + </p> + <p> + MAJOR DEMENT'S BATTLE WITH THE INDIANS. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the second day, after crossing Rock river, the Major's + command marched to the stockade at Kellogg's Grove and encamped. In the + morning, learning that Indian traces had been seen four or five miles from + the grove, twenty-five volunteers were called for to go out and + reconnoitre. This number was quickly filled, nearly every one volunteering + being an officer, and, as it afterward turned out, they were unfortunately + accepted. These volunteers had not yet gotten out of sight of their camp, + before three Indians were seen on their ponies between the fort and a + small grove on the prairie, riding backward and forward. The + reconnoitering party started after them in one, two and three order, + according to the speed of their horses, while the Indians made straight + for the small grove. Major Dement, who was watching the movements of the + volunteers from his camp, and seeing the movements of the Indians, at once + suspected a trap, mounted with a portion of his men, and went to their + aid. His men that had first started were a mile out upon the prairie in + pursuit of those few Indians. Being well mounted, the Major and his relief + party soon overtook the hindermost of the little band, but several were + too far in advance in their mad pursuit of the fleeing Indians for him to + reach them in time. The fleeing Indians were making for a grove some three + miles away, hotly pursued by the Major's men. In this grove, as the + commander feared, a large number of the Indians were concealed. When + within four or five hundred yards of this grove he halted and dismounted + his men and formed them in line. Some six or seven of his men were still + in advance following the Indians toward this grove. On nearing the grove, + his men who were in advance, were received with a galling fire, which + killed two and wounded a third. With hideous yells the Indians emerged + from the grove and rapidly approached. They were all mounted, stripped to + their waists and painted for battle. As they reached the bodies of the + dead soldiers, a large number surrounded them, clubbing and stabbing their + lifeless remains. A volley from the rifles of the whites killed two or + three at this point, but by the time the last of the little band had + reached the ridge upon which their comrades were drawn up in line, the + Indians were close upon them and on both flanks. At this point three men + who had been out of their camp hunting for their homes, came in sight and + were massacred in sight of their friends. The main portion of the + battalion had been ordered to hold themselves in readiness for any + emergency, but hearing the yelling, instead of obeying the order, mounted + in hot haste and started to the rescue of their companions. On discovering + the force of the Indians, they retreated to the grove, and almost neck and + neck with the Indians, sprang over their horses and occupied the Block + House. + </p> + <p> + On the least exposed side of the Fort was a work bench; over this the + Major threw the bridle rein of his horse, and most of the horses huddled + around this as if conscious of their danger. The Indians swarmed around + the Block House under cover; an ominous stillness pervaded the air, which + was soon broken by the crack of the rifles of the white men. The best + marksmen with the best guns were stationed at the port holes, and a lively + fire was kept up by the little garrison. The Indians finding that they + were making no impression, turned their attention to shooting the horses, + twenty-five of which they succeeded in killing. After sharp firing for two + hours they retreated, leaving nine of their men dead on the field. This + was the first engagement in this war, in which the whites had held their + position until reinforcements arrived, without retreating. If the main + force had remained in the grove at this Block House after the volunteers + went out, without making any demonstration when the Indians came charging + up and still in the open prairie, they could have been easily repulsed. + This was the Major's plan of action, but the men became excited by the + firing, and having no commissioned officers to guide them, started without + order to assist their exposed comrades in the open prairie, when they were + flying for their lives to the block house. + </p> + <p> + That evening Gen. Posey came up with his brigade, and although the Indians + were encamped a short distance away, he made no effort to attack them but + contented himself with reporting the situation to Col. Z. Taylor at + Dixon's Ferry. Gen. Whiteside had said to Major Dement before crossing + Rock river, that he was going into the Indian rendezvous, where he could + have an Indian for breakfast every morning, and he found it literally + true. + </p> + <p> + It seems strange that Major Dement should have been ordered by Col. Taylor + into the enemy's country, across Rock river, with so small a force of + volunteers, while a large force of Regulars and Volunteers, commanded by + regular United States officers, remained securely entrenched in the rear. + It was Major Dement's opinion that there were more fighting men of Black + Hawk's band of warriors in the engagement at Kellogg's Grove than ever + afterwards made a stand during the war. It was easy for Gen. Posey to have + moved up and attacked the Indians on his arrival at the Grove, and then + have dealt them a fatal blow by forcing them to battle then, but he + refused to do so, and the war was not terminated until the fight at Bad + Axe some two months later, in which the Illinois troops did not engage. + During this engagement at the Block House, four whites and eleven Indians + were killed. The whites lost a large part of their horses—the + Indians shooting them from the timber, while the poor animals were huddled + about the Block House. + </p> + <p> + Although in command, Black Hawk remained in the Grove doing the + engagement, looking on to see that his principal aid, whose voice was like + a trumpet call, carried out his orders. + </p> + <p> + While reciting the incidents of this battle to the author, when writing + his Autobiography, Black Hawk spoke in high praise of Major Dement as a + commander, who had shown not only good military skill in coming to the + rescue of his party, but in withdrawing his little party to the Fort. + After Dement's engagement General Posey's brigade started for Fort + Hamilton and remained there a short time. News of Dement's engagement and + march of Posey's brigade having been received at Dixon's Ferry, where the + two other brigades were stationed, Gen. Alexander, with the 2d brigade was + ordered to cross Rock river and march to Plum river to intercept the + Indians, as it was deemed probable that they would make for that point to + cross the Mississippi. Gen. Atkinson, with regulars, and Gen. Fry with his + brigade, remained at Dixon waiting for news of the route taken by the + Indians. Next day Capt. Walker and three Pottowottamie Indians came into + Dixon and reported seventy-five Pottowottamies ready to join the army now + encamped at Sycamore creek, and they were afraid that Black Hawk and his + army was not far off. For their protection, and to await the coming of the + balance of the second brigade, Col. Fry, of Henry's brigade, was sent + forward immediately. The next morning Gen. Henry's brigade moved forward + with Gen. Atkinson at the head, intending to march up Rock river, to the + Four Lakes, and camped at Stillwell's battle-ground the first night and + joined Col. Fry and his Pottowottamie Indians on the 29th, and continued + their march. On the 30th, when going into camp, they saw signs of Sac + Indians, but the sentinels were undisturbed during the night. The next day + they saw one Indian, but he was on the other side of Plum river. On the 2d + of July, Major Ewing being in front, spied a fresh trail, and soon after + came upon the fresh trail of Black Hawk's entire force, at a point near + Keeshkanawy Lake. Scouts from the battalion came up to Black Hawk's + encampment, from which they had apparently taken their departure a few + days before. Here they found five white men's scalps which had been left + hung up to dry. This battalion continued to march around the lake in + detachments, one of which found where there had been another encampment, + but on returning to camp and comparing notes they began to despair of + finding the main body of Black Hawk's army in that region. On the 5th of + July, Gen. Atkinson with his army took a rest. During the day some scouts + brought in an old Indian nearly blind and half famished with hunger, whom + the Indians had left in their flight. After eating, Gen. Atkinson + questioned him closely as to the whereabouts of Black Hawk and his army, + but was satisfied from his replies and helpless condition, that he did not + know, but on taking up his line of march the near morning, Gen. Atkinson + did not leave him as the Indians had done, alone and without any means of + subsistence, but left him an abundance of food, and as we afterwards + learned, the old man recruited and afterwards got back to his tribe., + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the 9th the army encamped at White Water, and the next + morning Indians were seen on the other side of this stream which was not + fordable, one of whom shot and wounded a regular. After breaking camp, + Gen. Atkinson ordered a move up the river, and that night camped with his + entire force—all having met at the same point. Gen. Dodge's corps + had taken a Winnebago prisoner and brought him into camp for the purpose + of finding out if he knew where Black Hawk's forces were. He said they + were encamped on an island near Burnt Village. Col. William S. Hamilton, a + brave and honored son of Alexander Hamilton, in command of a company of + Menomonees, who had joined the main army the day before, with Captain + Early and his command, after scouring the island thoroughly, reported + there were no Indians on the island. + </p> + <p> + Governor Reynolds, who had been on the march up Rock River with his + volunteers and the main army, together with Colonel Smith, Major Sidney + Breese and Colonel A. P. Field, left the army and came into Galena on the + 12th, from whom we obtained our information of the movements of the army. + They were firmly of the opinion that the Indians had taken to the swamps, + and gotten entirely out of reach of the army, and that no farther danger + need be apprehended. Colonel Field, who is an eloquent speaker, at the + solicitation of Colonel Strode, although nearly worn out with hard + marches, made an able and soul-stirring speech to our regiment, and a + large number of the inhabitants of Galena. + </p> + <p> + At this time the army was nearly out of provisions, and Fort Winnebago, + about seventy-five miles distant, the nearest point at which they could + replenish. General Atkinson then ordered General Posey with his brigade, + to Fort Hamilton, General Henry's and Alexander's brigade and General + Dodge's squadron to Fort Winnebago for provisions; and sent General Ewing + and his regiment to Dixon with Colonel Dunn, who had been seriously + wounded by one of his own sentinels, but who afterwards recovered. General + Atkinson then built a fort near the camping ground, which was Fort + Keeshkanong. General Alexander returned on the 15th with provisions to the + fort, while Generals Dodge and Henry thought best to go with their + commands to the head of Fox river, and while on the way stopped at a + Winnebago village and had a talk with their head men, who assured them + that Black Hawk was then at Cranberry Lake, a point higher up Rock river. + After a consultation by the Generals, it was deemed best to send an + express to General Atkinson at Fort Keeshkanong, to let him know of the + information they had got, and their intention of moving on the enemy the + next morning. Dr. Merryman, of Colonel Collins' regiment, and Major + Woodbridge, Adjutant of General Dodge's corps, volunteered to go, and with + Little Thunder, a Winnebago chief, as pilot, started out to perform this + dangerous service, and after traveling a few miles, came on fresh Indian + trails, which Little Thunder pronounced to have been made by Black Hawk's + party, and fearing that they would be intercepted, insisted on returning + to camp. Night was then approaching, and having no guide to lead them + forward, they reluctantly followed Little Thunder back to camp. Orders + were then given for an early move next morning, and at daylight the bugle + sounded, and the army moved onwards. The trail was followed for two days, + leading for Four Lakes. On the second day, July 21st, scouts from General + Dodge's corps came in and reported Indians, and as a confirmation of the + fact, Dr. A.K. Philleo exhibited a scalp that he had taken from the head + of one that he had shot. Dr. Philleo was brave as the bravest, and + whenever a scouting party started out to look for Indians (unless his + services were required in camp), was always in the lead, and this being + his first Indian, took his scalp, and sent it to the writer, with written + instructions how to preserve it. To this end we handed over both to a deaf + and dumb printer in the office, who boasted somewhat of his chemical + knowledge, who spent considerable time for a number of days in following + the Doctor's instructions. After the killing of this Indian, some of the + scouts discovered fresh signs of more Indians, and after pursuing it for + some miles, Dr. Philleo and his friend Journey, equally as brave, being in + the lead, espied two more Indians, when each picked his man and fired, and + both fell; one of them, although badly wounded, fired as he fell, and + wounded one of the scouts. The Doctor's attention was now directed to his + wounded companion, hence his second Indian was allowed to retain his + scalp. + </p> + <p> + The scouts, finding that the trail was fresh, and the Indians were rapidly + retreating, having strewed their trail with camp equipage, in order to + facilitate their movements, sent an express back to camp, when the army + hastily took up the line of march, with Dodge's corps and Ewing's Spy + battalion in the front. By fast riding they soon came up with the Indians, + whom they found already in line to receive them. + </p> + <p> + AT WISCONSIN HEIGHTS. + </p> + <p> + Orders were at once given to dismount (leaving enough to hold the horses) + and charge upon the Indians. They had scarcely time to form into line when + they were met by the yelling Indians and a heavy volley from their guns. + </p> + <p> + Dodge and Ewing ordered a charge, and as they moved forward, returned the + fire at close quarters, with deadly effect. The Indians then commenced a + flank movement, and by securing a position in the high grass where they + could in a measure conceal themselves, fought bravely, until Dodge and + Ewing gave orders to charge upon them at the point of the bayonet. In this + engagement Col. Jones had his horse shot from under him, and one man + killed—but at the word <i>"charge,"</i> he went forward with his + brave men, and all performed their duty nobly and fearlessly, and soon + dislodged the Indians from their hiding place and forced them into a hasty + retreat. It being then too late to pursue them, orders were given to camp + on the battle-ground. + </p> + <p> + In this engagement Neapope had command, who was not only brave and + fearless, but well skilled in strategy. Having become well acquainted with + him after the war, he told the writer that he knew Gen. Dodge personally, + and had met him on the field of battle, and considered him one of the + bravest men he had ever met, although in this engagement all the officers + showed great skill and bravery, and thus encouraged their men to acts of + noble daring to a degree that he had never before witnessed in common—not + regular—soldiers. He said in this engagement, the command had been + entrusted to him of this small force—about two hundred—Indians, + in order to give Black Hawk and the remainder of his party, time to cross + the river. He reported his loss at twenty-eight (28) killed. + </p> + <p> + The newt morning a portion of the army was ordered forward to pursue the + fleeing enemy, but on reaching the river, found that they had taken to the + swamps, when it was deemed prudent to return to camp without attempting to + follow them. + </p> + <p> + Here the army rested for one day, and made comfortable provisions to carry + the wounded, after having consigned the remains of John Short, who had + been killed the day before, to mother Earth, with the honors of war. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Gen. Atkinson arrived with his regulars and the brigades + of Generals Posey and Alexander; and on the 28th of July, took up the line + of march with Gen. Atkinson at the head. Their route led through a + mountainous country for several days, as the Indiana seemed to have + selected the most difficult route they could find in order to gain time, + and reach the river in advance, and then secure the best possible + positions to defend themselves. + </p> + <p> + Having learned from an old Indian that had been left behind, that the + enemy was only a short distance ahead, Gen. Atkinson, on breaking camp at + an early hour in the morning, gave orders for the march towards the river, + with Gen. Dodge's squadron in front; Infantry next; Second brigade, under + command of Gen. Alexander, next; Gen. Posey's brigade next, and Gen. + Henry's in the rear. + </p> + <p> + After marching a few miles Gen. Dodge's scouts discovered the rear guard + of the enemy, when an express was sent immediately to Gen. Atkinson, who + ordered troops to proceed at double quick. In the meantime Gen. Dodge's + command pushed forward and opened a heavy fire, from which many Indians + were shot down while retreating toward the Mississippi, where their main + body was stationed. Dodge's squadron being in the lead, were first to open + upon the main army of the Indians, whilst Gen. Henry's brigade, that had + been placed in the rear in the morning, came first to his aid. The battle + waged furiously for more than two hours, and until the last visible Indian + warrior was killed. The Indians had commenced crossing before the battle + opened, and a number took to their canoes and made good their escape as + the battle progressed. The number killed was estimated at something over + one hundred, but the Indians afterward reported their loss at + seventy-eight killed and forty-two wounded. Our loss was seventeen killed + and about the same number wounded. + </p> + <p> + During the engagement several squaws were killed accidentally and a number + wounded, including children, who were taken prisoners. Among the latter, + Dr. Philleo reported a boy with one arm badly broken, who exhibited a + greater degree of stoicism during the operation of amputation, than he had + ever before witnessed. Being very hungry, they gave him a piece of bread + to eat, which he ravenously masticated during the entire operation, + apparently manifesting no pain whatever from the work of the surgeon. + </p> + <p> + Many of the Indians who got across the river in safety were afterwards + killed by the Menomonees. + </p> + <p> + STEAMBOAT WARRIOR'S FIGHT. + </p> + <p> + On the 2d of August, 1832, the steamboat, Warrior, was lying at Prairie du + Chien, and word having been received at the fort that Black Hawk's main + army was then at, or near the river above, at a point designated for all + to meet for the purpose of crossing the river, Lieut. Kingsbury took her + in charge, and started up with one company, in order to intercept the + Indians and prevent their crossing before the main army arrived, as he + knew it was in close pursuit of them. The boat soon came in view of + Indians on both sides of the river—Black Hawk and several lodges + having already crossed over-when they were hailed by Lieut. Kingsbury. A + white flag was hoisted by the Indians, and Black Hawk directed the + Winnebago interpreter on board the Warrior, to say to his chief that he + wanted him to send out his small boat so as he could go on board, a he + desired to give himself up. The Winnebago, however, reported to the + commander that they refused to bring their flag aboard. He then directed + his interpreter to say that if they still refused he would open fire upon + them. In reply, the interpreter said they still refused, when the + Lieutenant directed his six-pounder to be fired among them, and also + opened a musketry fire by his company. This was returned by the Indians, + and the battle continued for some time. Several Indians were killed at the + first fire, after which the remainder sought protection behind trees, + stumps, etc. It was then getting late in the afternoon, and as the boat + was nearly out of wood they dropped down to the fort to replenish, and + started back again the next morning. On reaching an island some miles + above their battle-ground of the day before, they commenced to rake it + with their six-pounder, supposing the Indians had taken shelter there, and + the army considering it a salute, Gen. Atkinson returned it. Soon after + the boat landed and took on board Gen. Atkinson and the regulars and then + returned to Prairie du Chien. The Illinois volunteers were ordered to + Dixon, at which place they were discharged, while the troops of the lead + mines were mustered out at Galena. After the boat started down the evening + before, Black Hawk and a few of his people left for the lodge of a + Winnebago friend, and gave himself up. Thus ended a bloody war which had + been forced upon Black Hawk by Stillman's troops violating a flag of + truce, which was contrary to the rules of war of all civilized nations, + and one that had always been respected by the Indians. And thus, by the + treachery or ignorance of the Winnebago interpreter on board of the + Warrior, it was bought to a close in the same ignoble way it commenced—disregarding + a flag of truce—and by which Black Hawk lost more than half of his + army. But in justice to Lieut. Kingsbury, who commanded the troops on the + Warrior, and to his credit it must be said, that Black Hawk's flag would + have been respected if the Winnebago, who acted as his interpreter on the + boat, had reported him correctly. + </p> + <p> + GENERAL ATKINSON'S REPORT. + </p> + <p> + HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARTILLERY CORPS, NORTH-WESTERN ARMY, Prairie du Chiens, + Aug. 25, 1832. + </p> + <p> + SIR:—I have the honor to report to you that I crossed the Ouisconsin + on the 27th and 28th ultimo, with a select body of troops, consisting of + the regulars under Colonel Taylor, four hundred in number, part of + Henry's, Posey's and Alexander's brigades, amounting in all to 1,300 men, + and immediately fell upon the trail of the enemy, and pursued it by a + forced march, through a mountainous and difficult country, till the + morning of the 2d inst., when we came up with his main body on the left + bank of the Mississippi, nearly opposite the mouth of the Ioway, which we + attacked, defeated and dispensed, with a loss on his part of about a + hundred and fifty men killed, thirty men, women and children taken + prisoners—the precise number could not be ascertained, as the + greater potion was slain after being forced into the river. Our loss in + killed and wounded, which is stated below, is very small in comparison + with the enemy, which may be attributed to the enemy's being forced from + his position by a rapid charge the commencement, and throughout the + engagement the remnant of the enemy, cut up and disheartened, crossed to + the opposite side of the river, and had fled into the interior, with a + view, it is supposed, of joining Keokuk and Wapello's bands of Sacs and + Foxes. + </p> + <p> + The horses of the volunteer troops being exhausted by long marches, and + the regular troops without shoes, it was not thought advisable to continue + the pursuit; indeed, a stop to the further effusion of blood seemed to be + called for, till it might be ascertained if the enemy would surrender. + </p> + <p> + It is ascertained from our prisoners that the enemy lost in the battle of + the Ouisconsin sixty-eight killed and a very large number wounded; his + whole loss does not fall short of three hundred. After the battle on the + Ouisconsin, those of the enemy's women and children, and some who were + dismounted, attempted to make their escape by descending that river, but + judicious measures being taken by Captain Loomis and Lieutenant Street, + Indian Agent, thirty-two women and children and four men have been + captured, and some fifteen men killed by the detachment under Lieutenant + Ritner. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The day after the battle on the river, I fell down with the regular +troops to this place by water, and the wounded men will join us to-day. +It is now my purpose to direct, Keokuk to demand a surrender of the +remaining principal men of the hostile party, which, from the large +number of women and children we hold prisoners, I have every reason to +believe will be compiled with. Should it not, they should be pursued and +subdued, a step Major-General Scott will take upon his arrival. + + I cannot speak too highly of the brave conduct of the regular and +volunteer forces engaged in the last battle, and the fatiguing march +that preceded it, and as soon as the reports of officers of the brigades +and corps are handed in, they shall be submitted with further remarks: + + 5 killed, 6 wounded, 6th inft. + 2 wounded, 5th inft. + 1 Captain, 5 privates, Dodge's Bat., mounted. + 1 Lieutenant, 6 privates, Henry's Bat. + 1 private wounded, Alexander's. + 1 private wounded Posey's. + + I have the great honor to be, with great respect, +</pre> + <p> + Your obedient servant, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + H. ATKINSON, +</pre> + <p> + Brevet Brig. Gen. U.S.A. + </p> + <p> + Maj. Gen. Macomb, Com. in Chief, Washington. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_APPE" id="link2H_APPE"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + APPENDIX. + </h2> + <h3> + AT YELLOW BANKS. + </h3> + <p> + Among the many hundreds of troops that came to Yellow Bank—Oquawka—on + their way to the sea of war, Major S. S. Phelps always spoke in high terms + of their good discipline and gentlemanly conduct, except in one instance—that + of a few persons in a company from McDonough county, who came over at a + time when old chief Tama and his wife, who was noted for being the white + man's friend, came over to get provisions for his little band. On seeing + an Indian some of these soldiers, who had been using their canteens rather + frequently, were eager to slay him, and not only threatened him but Major + P. also, for harboring him. The officers seemed to have no control of + these men—and just at a time when their threats were loudest of what + they intended to do at the close of three minutes, Major P. and one of his + clerks, Mr. Joseph Smart, were standing with their rifles cocked ready to + make the first shot, a cry came from outside of the building, by one of + the more peaceable soldiers, "Here comes another company, Capt. Peter + Butler's, from Monmouth," when these would-be braves instantly retreated. + </p> + <p> + We are assured by one of Capt. B.'s company, Mr. James Ryason, that the + foregoing is literally true, and that Major P. and Mr. Smart, afterwards, + amid the threats of these same soldiers, escorted Tama and wife to the + river bank to take their canoe to cross the river, and stood there with + their guns, ready to protect the Indians until they got out of reach of + gunshot—Smart threatening all the time to put a ball though the + first man that attempted to shoot. + </p> + <p> + In order to appease the wrath of these soldiers and prevent some of them + being killed, Capt. B. advised Maj. P. not to give Tama any provisions; + but on the way down, Mr. Ryason says, Smart (who talked their language + equal to a native born) told them to meet them at a certain point after + night and they would be supplied; and that for the purpose of assisting + Mr. Smart in taking supplies to Tama, he got leave of absence from the + Captain until next morning. + </p> + <p> + Messrs. James Ryason and Gabriel Shot, both honorable and highly respected + Christian gentlemen, are the only survivors of that company now residing + in this county. + </p> + <p> + Tama's village, located on South Henderson, half a mile below the farm of + Mr. John T. Cook, at Gladstone, was always noted as being the abode of + friendly Indians. In the fall of 1829, some write men came in and made + improvements on the land in the vicinity, and at the advice of Mr. Phelps, + Tama crossed the river and made a new town at the mouth of Flint river on + the Mississippi, and at the time of Black Hawk's raid into Illinois, it + was the rendezvous of many young men who had been persuaded by Tama not to + join Black Hawk. But when the news reached them of the indignities offered + to their good old chief, they secretly determined to go upon the war path, + and soon after four young Foxes started to cross the river and avenge the + insult. On going up Henderson creek they espied Mr. William Martin while + in the act of mowing, at a point near Little York, whom they shot and + killed, and for fear of detection, immediately took to the brush. It being + late when they got through the woods, they made a fire and camped just at + the edge of the prairie. + </p> + <p> + Some time after the shooting, friends of Mr. Martin discovered his + lifeless body and after removing it to the home, started on the trail of + his murderers, and followed it some distance through the underbrush, but + wisely concluded, as it was growing late, to return and give the alarm. An + express was sent to Capt. Butler during the night, who started out with + his company early in the morning, and on emerging into the prairie + discovered the camp fire of the Indians, add followed their trail to a + slough in the Mississippi two miles below Keithsburgh. Here the Indians + embarked in their canoes and were probably on the other side of the river + by this time. A demand was immediately made upon Keokuk for the murderers, + as they belonged to his band of Foxes, who surrendered two men to the + commanding officer at Rock Island. + </p> + <p> + These Indians soon afterwards made their escape, and before the time fixed + for their trial, Keokuk delivered four young men to Maj. Phelps, then + sheriff of Warren county, to be tried for the offence. Maj. P. and his + deputy, Mr. James Ryason, took them to Monmouth jail, where the following + proceedings were had before the Circuit Court (for a copy of which we are + indebted to George C. Rankin, Esq., now Circuit Clerk): + </p> + <p> + WARREN COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT. + </p> + <p> + William Martin was shot and scalped by two Indians, near Little York, + Warren county, August 9th, 1832. In their report at the October term of + the Warren Circuit Court, the Grand jurors say: + </p> + <p> + "Six or seven Indians of Keokuk's band of Sac and Fox Indians who were not + included in the war path under Black Hawk and other chiefs of the Sac and + Fox, nation, came over from the western bank of the Mississippi river to + the inhabited parts of Warren county, in said State, and unlawfully and + feloniously murdered the said William Martin in the most barbarous manner. + That the names of the said Indians are unknown to the Grand Jury. That two + of the said Indians have been heretofore given up by the chiefs of said + Indians, that they were confined in the Fort at Rock Island for some time + but have made their escape, and are now at large in their own country. + That the Grand jury cannot now find an indictment because the names of the + said Indiana are unknown to said jury. But they recommend that the + Governor of the State be furnished with a copy of this presentment, and + that he be desired to request of the President of the United States that + the whole of the said Indians concerned in the said murder may be demanded + of the said Sac and Fox nation that they may be indicted and punished for + murder under the authority of the laws of this State." + </p> + <p> + In compliance with the demand of the President, the chiefs surrendered + four Indians, namely, with their Interpretations; + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Sa-sa-pi-ma (he that troubleth). + Ka-ke-mo (he that speaks with something in his mouth). + I-o-nah (stay here). + Wa-pa-sha-kon (the white string). +</pre> + <p> + Concerning which, the Grand jury at the June term 1833 say: + </p> + <p> + "From an examination made by this Grand Jury they we now able to state + that the four Indians lately surrendered by the chiefs at the request of + the President of the United States, are not the real murderers of Martin. + The chiefs represent that at the time the demand was made the real + offenders had escaped from the territory and power of their nation. That + the prisoners now in custody volunteered themselves to be surrendered in + place of those who escaped, and that from custom amongst Indians, they + supposed this would be a sufficient compliance with the requisition of the + President. The Grand jury will not positively say that the chiefs have + prevaricated, but they do say that the demand already made has been + eluded." + </p> + <p> + By a writ of habeas corpus, the four Indians above named were brought + before the judge, presiding, Hon. Richard M. Young, June 14th, 1833, and + released. + </p> + <p> + Indictment was returned against the real murderers, Shash-quo-washi, + Muck-que-che-qua, Muck-qua-pal-ashah, and Was-a-wau-a-quot, who, "not + having the fear of God before their eyes, but being moved and seduced by + the instigations of the devil," killed Wm. Martin. The indictment was + drawn by Thomas Ford, States Attorney, and recites that William Martin was + shot a little below the shoulder blade. Among the witnesses named were + Keokuk and Stabbing Chief. The guilty parties were never arrested, and a + <i>nolle prosequi</i> was entered at the October term at court, 1835. + </p> + <p> + GEN. SCOTT ARRIVES AT CHICAGO. + </p> + <p> + Gen. Scott, with a full regiment of regulars, came up the lake and landed + at Chicago about the 10th of July—the cholera in the meantime having + broken out among his troops, from which several had died. While encamped + at that point, it continued its virulence to such an extent, and in a + number of cases fatally, that he deemed it best to much out on the high + land, and soon after continued his journey, by slow marches, to Rock + Island. On reaching Rock river, where Milan is now situated, the cholera + had disappeared, and he went into camp with his entire regiment. The clear + water of this beautiful stream was a Godsend to the many tired men, for + the ablution of their bodies and the cleansing of their apparel, tents, + etc., and seemed to have a general invigorating effect upon the entire + regiment. + </p> + <p> + Gen. Scott then went over to Rock Island with two companies to garrison + Fort Armstrong, and there learned the situation of affairs in the army, + and the great reduction made in the ranks of Black Hawk's band of Indians, + so that a final close of the war was daily expected. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +A few days after their arrival at Fort Armstrong, symptoms of cholera +again appeared among the troops of the company, and the physician +in charge tried every known remedy to check it, but failed in every +instance, and after running its course, which was usually about +twenty-four hours, the patient died. During the first three or four days +of its ravages, about one-half of that company had been consigned to +their last resting place in the soldiers' cemetery. + + Being on a visit to Rock Island at the time the cholera was raging, +the writer, at the request of Col. Wm. Berry, (who had also come down +from Galena to pay his respects to Gen. Scott,) accompanied him to +the Fort and introduced him to the General. It was a very warm, but +beautiful Sabbath, when we were admitted to the General's quarters, +about 10 o'clock in the morning, and after the introduction of our +friend and the usual salutations of the day, the General, after +expressing his doubts of the propriety of admitting us into the Fort, +forcibly and touchingly detailed the ravages that the cholera was making +in his ranks. Medicine, in the hands of a skillful physician, seemed +to have no effect to stay its progress, and he was just on the eve of +trying a different remedy as we came in, and if we would join him in +a glass of brandy and water, he would proceed at once to put it into +execution. He said he was satisfied that brandy was a good antidote to +cholera, and by its use many of his soldiers were still well. +</pre> + <p> + THE GENERAL'S REMEDY. + </p> + <p> + The General pulled off his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and directed an + orderly to tear off strips of red flannel, fill a bucket with brandy and + carry them to the hospital. On arriving at the bedside of a patient he + directed him to be stripped, and then with flannel soaked in brandy he + rubbed his chest thoroughly, in order to bring on a reaction, in the + meantime administering a little brandy with a spoon. In the course of half + an hour he returned and reported progress. He said he left his patient + free from pain, and directed a small portion of the brandy to be given + occasionally. + </p> + <p> + The well soldiers, seeing that their General was not afraid of cholera, + nor too proud to act as nurse to a sick soldier, took courage and insisted + on his retiring, so that they could fill his place. Seeing that new life + had been infused among the well soldiers, and a gleam of hope seeming to + inspire the sick, he gave directions for them to continue, as he had + commenced, and then retired. + </p> + <p> + On returning to his quarters he washed his hands, rolled down his sleeves, + put on his uniform, and then invited us to take a little brandy. After + listening to his mode of treatment, we casually remarked that it looked + feasible, but at the same time reprehensible in the General of the army + exposing himself in the performance of a duty that could be done as well + by a common soldier. He gave us a look, and kept his eyes upon us as his + giant form raised up, and, with a sweep of his sword arm, said in majestic + tones: "Sir, it is the duty of a General to take care of his army; should + he fall another can take his place; but, without an army his occupation is + gone!" + </p> + <p> + The General's treatment was continued right along, and the result was that + many of those attacked got well. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the close of the war, which terminated with the battle of Bad + Axe, on the second day of August, 1832, he came to Galena, and, in + conference with Governor John Reynolds, ordered the chiefs head men and + warriors of the Winnebago Nation to meet them at Fort Armstrong, Rock + Island, on the 15th day of September, 1832, for the purpose of holding a + treaty. + </p> + <p> + At the time fixed by the Commissioners they were met by the chiefs, head + men and warriors of the Winnebago Nation, with whom a treaty was made and + concluded, by which the Winnebagoes ceded to the United States all the + lands claimed by them lying to the south and east of Wisconsin river and + the Fox river of Green Bay. The consideration of this cession on the part + of the United States, to be a grant to the Winnebago Nation of a tract on + the west side of the Mississippi river known as the neutral ground and + annual annuities for twenty-seven years of $10,000 in specie and a further + sum, not to exceed $3,000 annually, for the purposes of maintaining a farm + and a school for the education of Winnebago children during the same + period of twenty-seven years. + </p> + <p> + TREATY WITH SACS AND FOXES. + </p> + <p> + After concluding the treaty with the Winnebagoes, and for the purpose of + making a lasting peace with the Sacs and Foxes, these Commissioners held a + treaty at the same place, and a week later, on the 21st day of September, + with chiefs, head men and warriors of that confederate tribe. The + Commissioners demanded, partly as indemnity for expenses incurred in the + late war with Black Hawk's band and to secure future tranquility, a + cession of a large portion of their country bordering on the frontiers. In + consideration thereof the United States agree to pay to said confederate + tribes annually, for thirty years, $20,000 in specie; also, to pay Messrs. + Farnham and Davenport, Indian traders at Rock Island, the sum of $40,000, + to be receipted for in full of all demands against said Indians. And, + further, at the special request of said confederate tribes, the United + States agree to grant, by letters patent, to their particular friend, + Antoine LeClair, interpreter, one section of land opposite Rock Island and + one section at the head of the rapids of the Mississippi river. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF DAVENPORT, IOWA. + </p> + <p> + This beautiful city now covers that "Section of land opposite Rock Island" + that was donated by treaty to Antoine LeClair by the Sacs and Foxes, and + also three or four more sections. At that time it was wholly uninhabited, + the Foxes having removed their village from that point some three years + before. As a town site it was regarded by strangers and travelers on + steamboats as the most beautiful west of the Mississippi between St. Louis + and St. Paul, and now, with its twenty-three thousand inhabitants, elegant + residences, magnificent public buildings, fine churches, schoolhouses, + extensive manufactories, and large business blocks, it Stands unrivalled + as a beautiful city. It has ten miles of street railroads, affording easy + access to all parts of the city. It has two daily papers, the <i>Gazette</i> + and <i>Democrat</i>, (morning and evening) both ably conducted; and also a + German daily and two weeklies. The river is spanned by an elegant bridge + that was built at the cost of nearly a million dollars, which is used by + the various railroads from East to West, and has a roadway for teams and + pedestrians. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF ROCK ISLAND + </p> + <p> + Is located on the bank of the river in Illinois, immediately opposite to + Davenport, and is a large and flourishing city, with a population of about + twelve thousand inhabitants. It has fine public buildings, elegant + churches and residences, substantial business blocks, extensive + manufactories and elegant water works. The city is lighted by electric + lights, from high towers, that cast their refulgent rays over the entire + city, which makes it the finest lighted city in the west. There are two + daily papers, (morning and evening) <i>The Union</i> and <i>The Argus</i>, + both enjoying the privilege of Press dispatches, and both issue weeklies. + <i>The Rock Islander</i> is also published weekly, and all have the + appearance of great prosperity. The professions are represented by men of + fine ability, including some of wide reputation. The banking business is + done principally by two National Banks, that have a deservedly high + reputation, and are doing a large business. There are two first-class + hotels—the Harper House and Rock Island House—and several of + less pretentions. The city has large coal fields, in close proximity, with + railroads running daily to and from the banks, by which the three cities + are supplied. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF MOLINE + </p> + <p> + Is located two miles up the river from Rock Island, but connected with it + by street railways. It has a population of over 8,000 inhabitants, and is + extensively known from its many manufacturing establishments, which are + supplied with water power from a dam across the river from the Island. + </p> + <p> + FIFTY YEARS AGO + </p> + <p> + When the writer first visited this most beautiful Island in the + Mississippi river, then and now known as Rock Island, the ground on which + the triplet cities of Davenport, Rock Island, and Moline now stands, was + covered with prairie grass, and apparently a sterile waste as regards to + the two former, whilst the latter was principally covered with timber. Now + how changed! Then the site of Davenport was claimed to be the most + beautiful on the west bank of the Mississippi, between St. Paul and St. + Louis by Black Hawk and his confreres, who had traveled up and down the + river in canoes, whilst his judgment was confirmed by thousands of + passengers who viewed it from steamboats in after years. + </p> + <p> + THE TRIPLE CITIES + </p> + <p> + are widely known as the leading manufacturing cities of the great west, + with railroads stretching out from ocean to ocean, and although the + Mississippi makes a dividing line, they are united by a magnificent + bridge, which makes their intercourse easier than over paved streets. + </p> + <p> + Rock Island, at that time, was excluded from settlement by the orders of + Government, as it had been reserved, on the recommendation of Hon. Lewis + Cass, whilst he was in the Senate and Cabinet, as a site for a United + States Arsenal and Armory. Fort Armstrong was situated on the lower end of + the Island, and was then in command of Col. William Davenport. The Sac and + Fox agency (Maj. Davenport, agent,) stood on the bank of the river about + half a mile above the Fort; next came the residence and office of Antoine + Le Clair, United States Interpreter for the Sam and Foxes, and a little + higher up, the residence, store-house and out buildings of Col. George + Davenport, who had by an act of Congress, preempted a claim of two hundred + acres of land running across the Island from bank to bank of the river. + The Island is about two miles long, and being at the foot of the rapids + has the best water power on the river, capable of running a much greater + amount of machinery than is at present in operation. The entire Island is + now owned and occupied by the Government, (the heirs of Col. Davenport + having sold and deeded their interest), and is now used as an + </p> + <p> + ARMORY AND ARSENAL + </p> + <p> + which are destined to be in the near future, the most extensive works of + the kind probably in the world. Indeed, army officers who have traveled + extensively in the Old World, say they have never seen anything to compare + with it, in elegant grounds, water power and buildings, and with such + facilities for moving anything to and from the Arsenal. These works were + commenced under the supervision of Gen. Rodman, the inventor of the Rodman + gun, and since the death of the General, D. W. Flagler, Lieut. Col. of + Ordinance, has been in command, and a more efficient and better qualified + officer for the place could not have been found in the army. + </p> + <p> + There are already completed ten massive stone buildings, which are used + for work shops, storage, etc., officers' quarters, both durable and + comfortable, and many other buildings. The former residence of Col. George + Davenport, (the House in which he as killed for money many years ago) + built in 1831, of solid hewed timber, and afterwards weather-boarded, + still stands unoccupied. + </p> + <p> + The Island is mostly covered with trees of different varieties, which are + kept neatly trimmed, and is laid out like a park, with wide avenues + extending its whole length, which makes the most elegant drives and shady + walks for the thousands of visitors who flock to the Island to feast their + eyes upon its magnificence. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF KEOKUK, IOWA, + </p> + <p> + Is located at the foot of the Lower Rapids, 139 miles from Rock Island, + and bears the name of the distinguished chief of the Sacs and Foxes. At + our first visit there, in 1832, there was a long row of one-story + buildings fronting on the river, that were used by Col. Farnham, agent of + the American Fur Company, as a store and warehouse—this being the + principal depot for trade with the Sacs and Foxes, who were then the sole + proprietors of the country and its principal inhabitants, with the + exception of a few individuals who had got permission to put up shanties + for occupation during the low-water season, while they were engaged in + lighting steamers passing up and down the river, but unable to cross the + rapids while loaded. + </p> + <p> + At that day the old chief, Keokuk, boasted of having the handsomest site + for a big village that could be found on the river, and since that day it + has grown to be a large and elegant city, with wide streets, fine public + buildings, nice churches, school-houses, elegant residences, extensive + business houses, wholesale and retail stores, manufactories, and a + flourishing Medical University with elegant buildings, which has been in + successful operation for more than twenty years. The United States + District Court for Southern Iowa is also located here. The city is well + provided with good hotels. The Patterson House, an immense building, five + stories high, being chief, which has always ranked as first-class-with a + number of hotels of smaller dimensions, but well kept—affording + ample accommodation for the thousands of travelers that frequently + congregate at this place. The various professions are represented by men + of fine ability—some of them of wide reputation. They have two daily + papers, <i>The Gale City,</i> and <i>The Constitution</i>, which are ably + conducted. + </p> + <p> + A fine canal, running the entire length of the Rapids, from Montrose to + Keokuk, has been built by the United States, through which steamboats can + now pass at any stage of water—but designed more particularly for + low water—so that there is no longer any detention to lighten + steamboats over the Rapids. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF MUSCATINE, IOWA. + </p> + <p> + Muscatine was first settled as a wood yard by Col. John Vanater, in July, + 1834, and was laid out as a town by him in 1836, and called Bloomington. + The county was organized in 1837, under the name of Muscatine, and + Bloomington made the county seat. The name of the town was changed to + correspond with that of the county in 1851. Its population at the last + census was 8,294; present population not less than 10,000. Besides being + the centre of a large trade in agricultural products, it is extensively + engaged in manufacturing lumber, sash, doors and blinds, and possesses + numerous large manufactories, oat-meal mills, and the finest marble works + in the State. It is also the centering point of a very large wholesale and + retail trade. It is situated at the head of the rich Muscatine Island, the + garden spot of the Northwest, and is the shipping point for millions of + melons and sweet potatoes annually. + </p> + <p> + Muscatine is a good town, with a good business and good newspapers. The <i>Journal</i> + and <i>Tribune</i> are published daily, semi-weekly and weekly. Hon. John + Mahin has been the editor of the <i>Journal</i> since 1852, and there is + no editor in the State whose service dates further back than his. + </p> + <p> + THE CITY OF DUBUQUE. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the close of the war and the discharge of the volunteer army, + the writer, with some twenty others who had served through the war, formed + a company for the purpose of laying out the town of Dubuque. One of their + number, Capt. James Craig, being a surveyor, he was selected to survey the + lines and lay out the town. About the middle of September, 1832, he + started out from Galena with his chain-carriers, stake-drivers, etc., + (stakes having been previously sawed and split on an island opposite, all + ready for use), and in due time completed the survey. Blocks fronting the + river on three or four streets back were completed, each lot receiving its + stakes, whilst those farther back were staked as blocks, and not + subdivided. A few of the original proprietors built and took possession at + once. Among them were the Messrs. Langworthy, enterprising and energetic + young gentlemen, who commenced business as grocers in a small way, with + supplies for miners. Their faith was strong that adventurers would come + in, and that the time was not far distant when the town would take a + start, and in a few years become a populous city. Miners and prospectors + soon took possession of claims in the immediate vicinity, and in one + instance a claim was made and ore struck within the limits of our survey. + </p> + <p> + It was well known that the Indians had been in the habit, for many years, + of visiting this portion of their country, for the purpose of getting + their supplies of lead; hence the supposition of miners, who had long been + engaged in prospecting for lead-mining, that lead would be found on this + side of the river and in the vicinity of Dubuque. This caused a great rush + to the new fields, of hundreds, who expected to strike it rich with less + labor and expense. All were aware, however, that under the treaty just + made with the Sacs and Foxes by Gen. Scott and Gov. Reynolds, they had no + right to enter upon these lands, and stood in daily fear of being ordered + off by United States troops. But their numbers steadily increased. At + length the long expected order came. Major Davenport, Indian Agent at Rock + Island, was ordered to go forward, and, with one company of infantry in + two Mackinaw boats, commanded by Lieut. Beach, they landed near the mouth + of Fever river (Galena) about the first of October. The Major came up to + Galena with a letter from Col. George Davenport to the writer, to assist + him in the discharge of his delicate duty. Word was sent to Lieut. Beach + not to proceed up the river until the afternoon of the next day, as the + sight of troops by the miners might make them hard to manage; otherwise, I + assured the Major, he would have no trouble. We proceeded at once to a + point opposite Dubuque, where we found a comfortable stopping place with + the ferryman, and he being a man of considerable influence, I suggested to + him the propriety of going over to Dubuque to send men to all the mining + camps, requesting a meeting the next morning, at nine o'clock, of all the + miners, with the agent, to hear what he had to say, and to assure them at + the same time that his mission was a peaceable one, and that there should + be no objection manifested to disobey the orders of the Government. + </p> + <p> + After the departure of our messenger we took a private room to talk over + the programme for the meeting, when we suggested that, on assembling, the + Major should make a little speech explanatory of his visit, in which he + should express sorrow for the hardships it would be to leave their claims, + with the hope that the time was not distant when all might lawfully + return, etc. The Major said he was not a speech-maker, or a very good + talker, but would read the orders sent to him to dispossess them, and see + that they crossed the river. + </p> + <p> + After some discussion, the writer, at his request, wrote out a short + address for the Major, and on going over the next morning, we met some + four or five hundred miners at the grocery store, who had assembled to + listen to the orders sent for their removal. There being no boards or + boxes into which to improvise a stand for the speaker, a whisky-barrel was + introduced, from the head of which, after apologizing to the miners for + the disagreeable duty that had been placed upon the Major, and in + consequence of his suffering from a bad cold, we had taken the stand to + read to them his short address, and as most of them had spent the summer + in the service of the Government as soldiers in the field, and had been + honorably discharged, the Major felt satisfied that there would be no + objection manifested by any one in the large crowd before us to disobey an + order from the Government. After the close of the Major's address, the + question was put to vote by raising of hands. There was a general + upraising of hands, which was declared to be unanimous for immediate + removal. Owing to the good treatment received by the Major, he proposed to + treat the entire party, and, to facilitate the matter, buckets of whisky + with tin cups were passed around, and after all had partaken they shook + hands with the Major and commenced Crossing over in flatboats. + </p> + <p> + At three o'clock in the afternoon we crossed over on the last boat, and + took our departure for Galena. During the evening the Major's report of + how his peaceable removal of a large body of intruders from the west to + the east bank of the Mississippi had been accomplished, was made out and + mailed. But the further fact that all those miners had recrossed the + river, and were then in their mining camps, was not recorded, for the + reason that the Major had not been posted as to their intentions. + </p> + <p> + Owing to the provisions of the treaty, it was a long time before Congress + passed an act for the sale of these lands, and confirmation to the titles + of town sites, hence, many of those who had laid out the town of Dubuque + had left the county, and at the time of proving up their claims failed to + put in an appearance—the writer being one of them—whilst those + who remained, with the Messrs. Langworthy, became sole proprietors—the + latter having lived to see the town rise in importance, and at this time + become one of the most populous cities on the west side of the + Mississippi. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Autobiography of +Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak, or Black Hawk, by Black Hawk + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BLACK HAWK *** + +***** This file should be named 7097-h.htm or 7097-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/0/9/7097/ + +Produced by Martin Schub, and David Widger, scanned pages provided courtesy +of the 1st-hand-history Foundation + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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