initial commit of ebook 7978HEADmain

5 files changed, 7957 insertions, 0 deletions

diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6833f05
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.gitattributes
@@ -0,0 +1,3 @@
+* text=auto
+*.txt text
+*.md text
diff --git a/7978.txt b/7978.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..266a1a5
--- /dev/null
+++ b/7978.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,7941 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Legends, Traditions, and Laws of the Iroquois, or Six Nations, and History of the Tuscarora Indians
+by Elias Johnson
+
+Copyright laws are changing all over the world. Be sure to check the
+copyright laws for your country before downloading or redistributing
+this or any other Project Gutenberg eBook.
+
+This header should be the first thing seen when viewing this Project
+Gutenberg file.  Please do not remove it.  Do not change or edit the
+header without written permission.
+
+Please read the "legal small print," and other information about the
+eBook and Project Gutenberg at the bottom of this file.  Included is
+important information about your specific rights and restrictions in
+how the file may be used.  You can also find out about how to make a
+donation to Project Gutenberg, and how to get involved.
+
+
+**Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts**
+
+**eBooks Readable By Both Humans and By Computers, Since 1971**
+
+*****These eBooks Were Prepared By Thousands of Volunteers!*****
+
+
+Title: Legends, Traditions, and Laws of the Iroquois, or Six Nations, and History of the Tuscarora Indians
+
+Author: Elias Johnson
+
+Release Date: April, 2005  [EBook #7978]
+[This file was first posted on June 8, 2003]
+
+Edition: 10
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: US-ASCII
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, LEGENDS, TRADITIONS, AND LAWS OF THE IROQUOIS, OR SIX NATIONS, AND HISTORY OF THE TUSCARORA INDIANS ***
+
+
+
+
+Editorial note: This E-text attempts to re-create the original text as
+                closely as possible. As the author was writing in a
+                "foreign" language, expect grammar and spelling which
+                might seem more strange or mistaken than mere time or
+                preference can explain.
+
+This E-text was prepared by Juliet Sutherland, Marlo Dianne, Charles Franks,
+and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+LEGENDS, TRADITIONS, AND LAWS OF THE
+
+IROQUOIS, OR SIX NATIONS
+
+AND
+
+HISTORY OF THE TUSCARORA INDIANS
+
+BY
+
+ELIAS JOHNSON,
+
+A NATIVE TUSCARORA CHIEF.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION.
+
+"A book about Indians!"--who cares anything about them?
+
+This will probably be the exclamation of many who glance on my little
+page. To those who know nothing concerning them, a whole book about
+Indians will seem a very prosy affair, to whom I can answer nothing, for
+they will not proceed as far as my Preface to see what reasons I can
+render for the seeming folly.
+
+But to those who are willing to listen, I can say that the Indians are a
+very interesting people, whether I have made an interesting book about
+them or not.
+
+The Antiquarian, the Historian, and the Scholar, have been a long time
+studying Indian character, and have given plenty of information
+concerning the Indian, but it is all in ponderous volumes for State and
+College libraries, and quite inaccessible to the multitude--those who
+only take up such book as may be held in the hand, sitting by the
+fire,--still remain very ignorant of the Children of Nature who inhabited
+the forests before the Saxon set his foot upon our shores.
+
+There is also a great deal of prejudice, the consequence of this
+ignorance, and the consequence of the representations of your forefathers
+who were brought into contact with the Indians, under circumstances that
+made it impossible to judge impartially and correctly.
+
+The Histories which are in the schools, and from which the first
+impressions are obtained, are still very deficient in what they relate of
+Indian History, and most of them are still filling the minds of children
+and youth, with imperfect ideas. I have read many of the Histories, and
+have longed to see refuted the slanders, and blot out the dark pictures
+which the historians have wont to spread abroad concerning us. May I live
+to see the day when it may be done, for most deeply have I learned to
+blush for my people.
+
+I thought, at first, of only giving a series of Indian Biographies, but
+without some knowledge of the government and religion of the Iroquois,
+the character of the Indians could not be understood or appreciated.
+
+I enter upon the task with much distrust. It is a difficult task at all
+times to speak and to write in foreign language, and I fear I shall not
+succeed to the satisfaction of myself, or to my readers.
+
+My title will not be so attractive to the American ears, as if it related
+to any other unknown people. A tour in Arabia, or Spain, or in India, or
+some other foreign country, with far less important and interesting
+material, would secure a greater number of readers, as we are always more
+curious about things afar off.
+
+I might have covered many pages with "Indian Atrocities," but these have
+been detailed in other histories, till they are familiar to every ear,
+and I had neither room nor inclination for even a glance at war and its
+dark records.
+
+THE AUTHOR.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+To animate a kinder feeling between the white people and the Indians,
+established by a truer knowledge of our civil and domestic life, and of
+our capabilities for future elevation, is the motive for which this work
+is founded.
+
+The present Tuscarora Indians, the once powerful and gifted nation, after
+their expulsion from the South, came North, and were initiated in the
+confederacy of the Iroquois, and who formerly held under their
+jurisdiction the largest portion of the Eastern States, now dwell within
+your bounds, as dependent nations, subject to the guardianship and
+supervision of a people who displaced their forefathers. Our numbers, the
+circumstances of our past history and present condition, and more
+especially the relation in which we stand to the people of the State,
+suggest many important questions concerning our future destiny.
+
+Being born to an inauspicious fate, which makes us the _inheritors of
+many wrongs_, we have been unable, of ourselves, to escape from the
+complicated difficulties which accelerate our decline. To make worse
+these adverse influences, the public estimation of the Indian, resting,
+as it does, upon the imperfect knowledge of their character, and infused,
+as it ever has been, with the prejudice, is universally unjust.
+
+The time has come in which it is no more than right to cast away all
+ancient antipathies, all inherited opinions, and to take a nearer view of
+our social life, condition and wants, and to learn anew your duty
+concerning the Indians. Nevertheless, the embarrassments that have
+obstructed our progress, in the obscurity which we have lived, and the
+prevailing indifference to our welfare, we have gradually overcame many
+of the evils inherent in our social system, and raised ourselves to a
+degree of prosperity. Our present condition, if considered in connection
+with the ordeal through which we have passed, shows that there is the
+presence of an element in our character which must eventually lead to
+important results.
+
+As I do not profess that this work is based upon authorities, a question
+might arise in the breast of some reader, where these materials were
+derived, or what reliance is to be placed upon its contents. The
+credibility of a witness is known to depend chiefly upon his means of
+knowledge. For this reason, I deem it important to state, that I was born
+and brought up by Tuscarora Indian parents on their Reservation in the
+Town of Lewiston, N.Y. From my childhood up was naturally inquisitive and
+delighted in thrilling stories, which led me to frequent the old people
+of my childhood's days, and solicited them to relate the old Legends and
+their Traditions, which they always delighted to do. I have sat by their
+fireside and heard them, and thus they were instilled upon my young mind.
+I also owe much of my information to our Chief, JOHN MT. PLEASANT. I have
+also read much of Indian history, and compared them with our LEGENDS and
+TRADITIONS.
+
+THE AUTHOR.
+
+
+
+
+THE IROQUOIS.
+
+
+NATIONAL TRAITS OF CHARACTER.
+
+In all the early histories of the American Colonies, in the stories of
+Indian life and the delineations of Indian character, these children of
+nature are represented as savages and barbarians, and in the mind of a
+large portion of the community the sentiment still prevails that they
+were blood-thirsty, revengeful, and merciless, justly a terror to both
+friends and foes. Children are impressed with the idea that an Indian is
+scarcely human, and as much to be feared as the most ferocious animal of
+the forest.
+
+Novelists have now and then clothed a few with a garb which excites your
+imagination, but seldom has one been invested with qualities which you
+would love, unless it were also said that through some captive taken in
+distant war, he inherited a whiter skin and a paler blood.
+
+But I am inclined to think that Indians are not alone in being
+savage--not alone barbarous, heartless, and merciless.
+
+It is said they were exterminating each other by aggressive and
+devastating wars, before the white people came among them. But wars,
+aggressive and exterminating wars, certainly, are not proofs of
+barbarity. The bravest warrior was the most honored, and this has been
+ever true of Christian nations, and those who call themselves christians
+have not yet ceased to look upon him who could plan most successfully the
+wholesale slaughter of human beings, as the most deserving his king's or
+his country's laurels. How long since the pean died away in praise of the
+Duke of Wellington? What have been the wars in which all Europe, or of
+America, has been engaged, That there has been no records of her history?
+For what are civilized and christian nations drenching their fields with
+blood?
+
+It is said the Indian was cruel to the captives, and inflicted
+unspeakable torture upon his enemy taken in battle. But from what we know
+of them, it is not to be inferred that Indian Chiefs were ever guilty of
+filling dungeons with innocent victims, or slaughtering hundreds and
+thousands of their own people, whose only sin was a quiet dissent from
+some religious dogma. Towards their enemies they were often relentless,
+and they had good reason to look upon the white man as their enemy. They
+slew them in battle, plotted against them secretly, and in a few
+instances comparatively, subjected individuals to torture, burned them at
+the stake, and, perhaps, flayed them alive. But who knows anything of the
+precepts and practices of the Roman Catholic Christendom, and quote these
+things as proofs of unmitigated barbarity.
+
+At the very time that the Indians were using the tomahawk and scalping-
+knife to avenge their wrongs, peaceful citizens in every country of
+Europe, where the Pope was the man of authority, were incarcerated for no
+crime whatever, and such refinement of torture invented and practiced, as
+never entered in the heart of the fiercest Indian warrior that roamed the
+wilderness to inflict upon man or beast.
+
+We know very little of the secrets of the inquisition, and this little
+chills our blood with horror. Yet these things were done in the name of
+Christ, the Savior of the World, the Prince of Peace, and not savage, but
+civilized. Christian men looked on, not coldly, but rejoicingly, while
+women and children writhed in flames and weltered in blood. Were the
+atrocities committed in the vale of Wyoming and Cherry Valley
+unprecedented among the Waldensian fastnesses and the mountains of
+Aurvergne? Who has read Fox's book of Martyrs, and found anything to
+parallel it in all the records of Indian warfare? The slaughter of St.
+Bartholomew's days, the destruction of the Jews in Spain, and the Scotch
+Covenanters, were in obedience to the mandates of Christian princes,--
+aye, and some of them devised by Christian women who professed to be
+serving God, and to make the Bible the man of their counsel.
+
+It is said also that the Indians were treacherous, and more, no
+compliance with the conditions of any treaty, was ever to be trusted. But
+the Puritan fathers cannot be wholly exonerated from the charge of
+faithlessness; and who does not blush to talk of Indian traitors when he
+remembers the Spanish invasion and the fall of the princely and
+magnanimous Montezuma?
+
+Indians believed in witches, and burned them, too. And did not the
+sainted Baxter, with the Bible in his hand, pronounce it right, and was
+not the Indian permitted to be present, when the quiet unoffending woman
+was cast into the fire, by the decree of a Puritan council?
+
+To come down to the more decidedly Christian times, it is not so very
+long since, in Protestant England, hanging was the punishment of a petty
+thief, long and hopeless imprisonment of a slight misdemeanor, when men
+were set up to be stoned and spit upon by those who claimed the exclusive
+right to be called humane and merciful.
+
+Again, it is said, the Indian mode of warfare is, without exception, the
+most inhuman and revolting. But I do not know that those who die by the
+barbed and poisoned arrow linger in any more unendurable torment than
+those who are mangled with powder and lead balls, and the custom of
+scalping among Christian murderers would save thousands from groaning
+days, and perhaps weeks, among heaps that cover victorious fields and
+fill hospitals with the wounded and dying. But scalping is not an
+invention exclusively Indian. "It claims," says Prescott, "high
+authority, or, at least, antiquity." And, further history, Herodotus,
+gives an account of it among the Scythians, showing that they performed
+the operation, and wore the scalp of their enemies taken in battle, as
+trophies, in the same manner as the North American Indian. Traces of the
+custom are also found in the laws of the Visigaths, among the Franks, and
+even the Anglo Saxons. The Northern Indians did not scalp, but they had a
+system of slavery, of which there are no traces to be found among the
+customs, laws, or legends of the Iroquois.
+
+Again, it is said, "They carried away women and children captive, and in
+their long journey through the wilderness, they were subjected to
+heartrending trials."
+
+The wars of Christian men throw hundreds and thousands of women and
+children helpless upon the cold world, to toil, to beg, and to starve.
+
+This is not so bright a picture as is usually given of people who have
+written laws and have stores of learning, but people cannot see in any
+place that the coloring is too dark! There is no danger of painting
+Indians so they will become attractive to the civilized people.
+
+There is a bright and pleasing side to the Indian character, and thinking
+that there has been enough written of their wars and cruelties, of the
+hunter's and fisherman's life, I have sat down at their fireside,
+listened to their legends, and am acquainted with their domestic habits,
+understand their finer feelings and the truly noble traits of their
+character.
+
+It is so long now since they were the lords of this country, and
+formidable as your enemies, and they are so utterly wasted away and
+melted like snow under the meridian sun, and helpless, that you can sit
+down and afford to listen to the truth, and to believe that even your
+enemies had their virtues. Man was created in the image of God, and it
+cannot be that anything human is utterly vile and contemptible.
+
+Those who have thought of Indians as roaming about in the forests hunting
+and fishing, or at war, will laugh, perhaps, at the idea of Indian homes,
+and domestic happiness. Yet there are no people of which we have any
+knowledge, among whom, in their primitive state, family ties and
+relationship were more distinctly defined, or more religiously respected
+than the Iroquois.
+
+The treatment which they received from the white people, whom they always
+considered as intruders, aroused, and kept in exercise all their
+ferocious passions, so that none except those who associated with them as
+missionaries, or as captives, saw them in their true character, as they
+were to each other.
+
+Almost any portrait that we see of an Indian, he is represented with
+tomahawk and scalping knife in hand, as if they possessed no other but a
+barbarous nature. Christian nations might with equal justice be always
+represented with cannon and balls, swords and pistols, as the emblems of
+their employment and their prevailing tastes.
+
+The details of war are from far to great a portion of every History of
+civilized and barbarous nations, to conquer and to slay has been to long
+the glory of the christian people; he who has been most successful in
+subjugating and oppressing, in mowing down human beings, has too long
+wore the laural crown, been too long an object for the admiration of men
+and the love of women.
+
+It seems you might be weary of the pomp and circumstance of war, of
+princely banquets, and gay cavalcades. The time and space you bestow upon
+King and courts, and the homage you pay to empty titles, are unworthy
+your professed republican spirit and preferences, let us turn aside from
+the war path, and sit down by the hearth-stone of peace.
+
+In the picture which I have given, I have confined myself principally to
+the Iroquois, or Six Nations, a people who no more deserve the term
+savage, than the whites do that of heathen, because they have still
+lingering among them heathen superstitions, and many opinions and
+practices which deserves no better name.
+
+The cannibals of some of the west Indies Islands, and the Islands of the
+Pacific, may with justice be termed savage, but a people like the
+Iroquois who had a goverment, established offices, a system of religion
+eminently pure and Spiritual, a code of honor and laws of hospitality,
+excelling those of all other nations, should be considered something
+better than savage, or utterly barbarous.
+
+The terrible torture they inflicted upon their enemies, have made their
+name a terror, and yet there were not so many burnt, hung, and starved by
+them, as perished among Christian nations by these means. The miseries
+they inflicted were light, in comparison, with those they suffered. If
+individuals should have come among you to expose the barbarities of
+savage white men, the deeds they relate would quite equal anything known
+of Indian cruelty. The picture an Indian gives of civilized barbarism
+leaves the revolting custom of the wilderness quite in the back-ground.
+You experienced their revenge when you had put their souls and bodies at
+a stake, with your fire-water that maddened their brains. There was a
+pure and beautiful spirituality in their faith, and their conduct was
+much more influenced by it, as are any people, Christian or Pagan.
+
+Is there anything more barbaric in the annals of Indian warfare, than the
+narrative of the Pequod Indians? In one place we read of the surprise of
+an Indian fort by night, when the inmates were slumbering, unconscious of
+any danger. When they awoke they were wrapped in flames, and when they
+Attempted to flee, were shot down like beasts. From village to village,
+from wigwam to wigwam, the murderers proceeded, "being resolved," as your
+historian piously remarks, "by God's assistance, to make a final
+destruction of them," until finally a small but gallant band took refuge
+in a swamp. Burning with indignation, and made sullen by dispair, with
+hearts bursting with grief at the destruction of their nation, and
+spirits galled and sore at the fancied ignominy of their defeat, they
+refused to ask life at the hands of an insulting foe, and preferred death
+to submission. As the night drew on, they were surrounded in their dismal
+retreat, volleys of musketry poured into their midst, until nearly all
+were killed or buried in the mire. In the darkness of a thick fog which
+preceded the dawn of day, a few broke through the ranks of the beseigers
+and escaped to the woods.
+
+Again, the same historian tells us that the few that remained, "stood
+like sullen dogs to be killed rather than to implore mercy, and the
+soldiers on entering the swamp, found many sitting together in groups,
+when they approached, and resting their guns on the boughs of trees,
+within a few yards of them, literally filled their bodies with bullets."
+But they were Indians, and it was pronounnced a pious work. But when the
+Gauls invaded Italy, and the Roman Senators, in their purple robes and
+chairs of State, sat unmoved in the presence of barbarian conquerors,
+disdaining to flee, and equally disdaining to supplicate for mercy, it
+is applauded as noble, as dying like statesmen and philosophers. But the
+Indians with far more to lose and infinitely greater provocation, sits
+upon his mother earth upon the green mound, beneath the canopy of Heaven,
+and refuses to ask mercy of civilized fiends, he is stigmatized as dogs,
+spiritless, and sullen. What a different name has greatness, clothed in
+the garb of christian princes and sitting beneath spacious domes, gorgeous
+with men's device, and the greatness, in the simple garb of nature,
+destitute and alone in the wilderness.
+
+There is nothing in the character of Alexander of Macedon who "conquered
+the world, and wept that he had no more to conquer," to compare with the
+noble qualities of king Philip of Mt. Hope, and among his warriors are a
+long list of brave men unrivalled in deeds of heroism, by any of ancient
+or modern story. But in what country, and by whom were they hunted,
+tortured, and slain, and who was it that met together to rejoice and give
+thanks at every species of cruelty inflicted upon those who were fighting
+for their wives, their children, their homes, their altars and their God.
+When it is recorded that "men, women and children, indiscriminately, were
+hewn down and lay in heaps upon the snow," it is spoken of as doing God's
+service, because they were nominally heathen. "Before the fight was
+finished, the wigwams were set on fire, and into those, hundreds of
+innocent women and children had crowded themselves, and perished in the
+general conflagration." And for those thanksgivings were sent up to
+heaven, the head of Philip is strung upon a pole, and exposed to the
+public. But this was not done by savage warriors, and the crowd that
+huzzaed at the revolting spectacle, assembled on the Sabbath day, in a
+Puritan church, to listen to the Gospel that proclaims peace and love to
+all men. His body was literally cut in slices to be distributed among the
+conquerors, and a christian city rings with acclamation.
+
+In speaking of this bloody contest, one who is most eminent among the
+fathers, says: "Nor could they cease praying unto the Lord against
+Philip, until they had prayed the bullet through his heart." "Two and
+twenty Indian captives were slain, and brought down to hell in one day."
+"A bullet took him in the head, and sent his cursed soul in a moment
+amongst the devils and blasphemers in hell forever."
+
+Masasoit, the father of Philip, was the true friend to the English, and
+when he was about to die, took his two sons, Alexander and Philip, and
+fondly commended them to the kindness of the new settlers, praying them
+the same peace and good will might be between them, that had existed
+between him and his white friends. Upon mere suspicion only a short time
+afterwards, the elder, who succeeded his father as ruler, among his
+people, was hunted in his forest home, and dragged before the court, the
+nature and object of which he could not understand. But the indignity
+which was offered him, and the treachery of those who insulted him, so
+chafed his proud spirit that a fever was the consequence, of which he
+died. And that is not all. The son and wife of Philip were sold into
+slavery, (as were also about eight hundred persons of the Tuscaroras, and
+also many others of the Indians that were taken captive during the
+Colonial wars.) "Yes," says a distinguished orator, (Everett,) "they were
+sold into slavery, West Indian slavery. An Indian princess and her child,
+sold from the cold breezes of Mount Hope, from a wild freedom of New
+England forest, to drop under the lash, beneath the blazing sun of the
+tropics."
+
+Bitter as death, aye, bitter as hell! Is there anything--I do not think
+in the range of humanity--is there any animal that would not struggle
+against this? Nor is this indeed all. A kinswoman of theirs, a Princess
+in her own right, Wetamore Pocasset, was pursued and harrassed till she
+fell exhausted in the wilderness, and died of cold and starvation. There
+she was found by men professing to be shocked at Indian barbarity, her
+head severed from her body, and carried bleeding upon a pole to be
+exposed in the public highways of the country, ruled by men who have been
+honored as saints and martyrs.
+
+"Let me die among my kindred," "Bury me with my fathers," is the prayer
+of every Indian's heart; and the most delicate and reverential kindness
+in the treatment of the bodies of the dead, was considered a religious
+duty. There was nothing in all their customs that indicated a barbarism
+so gross and revolting as these acts, which are recorded by New England
+historians without a censure, while the Indian's protests in his grief at
+seeing his kindred dishonored and his religion reviled, are stigmatized
+as savage and fiendish.
+
+If all, or even a few who ministered among them in holy things, had been
+like Eliot, who is called "the Apostle to the Indians," and deserved to
+be ranked with the Apostle of old, or Kirkland, who is endeared to the
+memory of every Iroquois who heard his name, it could not have become a
+proverb or a truth that civilization and christianity wasted them away.
+
+They were, not by one, but many, unscrupulously called "dogs, wolves,
+bloodhounds, demons, devils incarnate, hellhounds, fiends, monsters,
+beasts," always considering them inferior beings, and scarcely allowing
+them to be human, yet one, who was at that time a captive among them,
+represents them as "kind and loving and generous;" and concerning this
+same monster--Philip--records nothing that should have condemned him in
+the eyes of those who believed in wars aggressive and defensive, and
+awarded honors to heroes and martyrs and conquerors.
+
+By the Governor of Jamestown a hand was severed from the arm of a
+peaceful, unoffending Indian, that he might be sent back a terror to his
+people; and through the magnanimity of a daughter and king of that same
+people, that colony was saved from destruction. It was through their love
+and trust alone that Powhatan and Pocahontas lost their forest dominions.
+
+Hospitality was one of the Indians' distinguishing virtues, and there was
+no such thing among them as individual starvation or want. As long as
+there was a cup of soup, it was divided. If a friend or a stranger made a
+call he was welcome to all their wigwams would furnish, and to offer him
+food was not merely a custom, for it was a breach of politeness for him
+to refuse to eat however full he might be.
+
+Because their system not being like the white people's, it does not
+follow that it was not a system. You might have looked into the wigwam or
+lodge and thought everything in confusion, while to the occupants, there
+was a place for everything, and everything in its place: each had a couch
+which answered for bed by night and seat by day. The ceremonies at their
+festivals were as regular as in the churches, their rules of war as well
+defined as those of christian nations, and in their games and athletic
+sports there was a code of honor which it was disgraceful to violate:
+their marriage vows were as well understood, and courtesy as formally
+practiced at their dances.
+
+The nature of the Indian is in all respects like the nature of any other
+nation; placed in the same circumstances, he exhibits the same passions
+and vices. But in his forest home there was not the same temptation to
+great crimes, or what is termed the lesser ones, that of slander,
+scandal, and gossip, as exists among civilized nations.
+
+They knew nothing of the desire of gain, and therefore were not made
+selfish by the love of hoarding; and there was no temptation to steal,
+where they had everything in common, and their reverence for truth and
+fidelity to promises, may well put all the nations of christendom to
+shame.
+
+I have written in somewhat of the spirit which will characterize a
+History, by an Indian, yet it does not deserve to be called Indian
+partiality, but only justice and the spirit of humanity; or, if I may be
+allowed to say it, the spirit with which any christian should be able to
+consider the character and deeds of his foe. I would not detract from the
+virtues of your forefathers. They were at that time unrivalled, but
+bigotry and superstition of the dark ages still lingered among them, and
+their own perils blinded them to the wickedness and cruelty of the means
+they took for defence.
+
+Four, and perhaps two centuries hence, I doubt not, some of your dogmas
+will seem unchristian, as the Indians seem to you, and I truly hope, ere
+then, all wars will seem as barbarous, and the fantastic dress of the
+soldiers as ridiculous, as you have been in the habit of representing the
+wars and the wild drapery of the Indians of the forest.
+
+How long were the Saxon and Celt in becoming a civilized and Christian
+people? How long since the helmet, the coat of mail, and the battle axe,
+were laid aside?
+
+To make himself more terrific, the Briton of the days of Henry II drew
+the skin of a wild beast over his armor with the head and ears standing
+upright, and mounted his war-horse to go forth crying, "To arms! Death to
+the invader!" The paint and the Eagle plume of the Indian warrior were
+scarcely a more barbarous invention, nor his war-cry more terrible.
+
+It is not just to compare the Indian of the fifteenth, with the christian
+of the fifteenth century. But compare them with the barbarian of Britain,
+of Russia, of Lapland, and Tartary, and represent them as truly as these
+nations have been represented, and they will not suffer by the
+comparison.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+CAPTIVE'S LIFE AMONG INDIANS.
+
+
+ILLUSTRATED BY THE LIFE OF THE "WHITE WOMAN."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+To be taken captive by the Indians, was, among the early colonists,
+considered the most terrible of all calamities, and it was indeed a
+fearful thing to become the victim of their revenge. But those who were
+enduring the actual sufferings of captivity, or suffering still more from
+terror of uncertain evils, thought little of the provocation given by the
+white people. The innocent suffered for the guilty, and however
+persevering--I suppose the efforts of the government to be just--in its
+infancy, in a wild unknown country it was impossible to control
+unprincipled marauders. Some atrocious act was first committed by white
+men, which drove the Indian to retaliation, and thinking pale faces were
+all alike, he did not wait till the real offender fell into his hands.
+
+When the white men first came, the Indian looked upon them as superior
+beings. They were ready to worship Columbus and his little party, and all
+others along the coast, until their simple trust was outraged beyond
+endurance, they welcomed the strangers, gave them food when they were
+hungry, and sheltered them when they were cold. It was not till their
+encroachments became alarming, that the Indians asserted their rights,
+and if in all cases they had been as justly and kindly dealt with as by
+the Quakers of Pennsylvania, there would not have been so dark a record
+of sins, wrongs and tortures. If none but men of principle had made
+treaties with them, and all whose duty it was to observe them, had kept
+their faith, revenge had not come out so prominently in Indian character.
+
+But it was not in obedience to national policy that those who were taken
+in battle, were put to the torture, burned, and flayed. The Six Nations
+had never found it necessary to build prisons, and dig dungeons for their
+own people. If any man committed murder, they sometimes decided that he
+should die, and sometimes bade him flee far away where none who knew him
+could look upon his face. But crimes were so rare that they had no
+criminal code, and when they overcame their enemies, they either adopted
+them and treated them as brethren, or put them immediately to death.
+
+White people have often put Indians to death, and oftener put them in
+dungeons to waste and starve, but it was not part of their practice to
+adopt them and call them brethren. Had they sometimes done this, or sent
+them freely back to their friends unharmed, they might have conciliated
+where they were only made more desperate.
+
+When families are bereaved, they sought to be revenged on those who had
+bereaved them, and when warriors returned from battle, the prisoners were
+given up to the friends of the afflicted. With them alone it remained to
+decide the fate of those who fell into their hands. If they chose, they
+adopt them in place of the husbands, or brothers, who were slain; and if
+they so decided they were put to death, and in any way they decreed. If
+the manner in which their friend had been killed was aggravating and
+greatly enraged them, they were very likely to decide upon torture, and
+inflicted it in a manner to produce the greatest suffering. But in such
+cases, they sometimes showed great magnanimity, and "returned good for
+evil."
+
+Children were often adopted, and by a solemn ceremony received into a
+particular tribe, and evermore treated as one of their own people. You
+have been in the habit of listening to heart-rending stories of cruelties
+to captives, but captives who were adopted were never cruelly treated.
+Those who were immediately put to death experienced great suffering for a
+few hours, and those who were preserved were subjected to hardships which
+seemed to them unspeakable, but they were such as are necessarily
+incident to Indian life. They left no written chronicles to tell to all
+future generations the wrongs and tortures to which they were subjected,
+but one who sits with them by their firesides, may have his blood frozen
+with horror at the recitals of civilized barbarity.
+
+And there was one species of wrong of which no captive woman of any
+nation had to complain when she was thrown upon the tender mercies of
+Indian warriors. Not among all the dark and terrible records which their
+enemies have delighted to magnify, is there a single instance of the
+outrage of that delicacy which a pure minded woman cherishes at the
+expense of life, and sacrifices not to any species of mere animal
+suffering. Of what other nation can it thus be written, that their
+soldiers were not more terrible at the firesides of their enemies than on
+the battle-field, with all the fierce engines of war at their command. To
+whatever motive it is to be ascribed, let this at least stand out on the
+pages of Indian history as an ever enduring monument to their honor.
+
+A little book which professes to have been written for the sole purpose
+of recording and perpetuating Indian atrocities, and dwells upon them
+with infinite delight, alludes to this redeeming trait in Indian
+character, but attempts to ascribe it to the influence of superstition,
+as it were necessary to find some evil or deteriorating motive for
+everything noble, or pleasing in Indian character. Their treatment of
+captives from among Indian nations were the same. And I know not that
+there has been any satisfactory solution of a characteristic which has
+been found among only one other civilized christian or barbarous nation.
+A wanderer among the Indian tribes once asked an Indian why they thus
+honored their women, and he said "The Great Spirit taught, and would
+punish us if we did not." Among the Germans I believed there existed the
+same respect for woman, till they became civilized. They may have been
+some superstitious fears mingled with a strong governing and controlling
+principle, but it is not on this account the less marvelous that whole
+nations, consisting of millions, should have been so trained, religiously
+or domestically, that degree of beauty or fascination placed under their
+care, though hundreds of miles in the solitudes of the wilderness, should
+have tempted them from the strictest honor and the most delicate
+kindness. MARY JANISON was eighty years a resident among the Senecas, and
+in the early part of the time the forests had few clearings, and the
+comforts and the vices of white men prevailed but little among them. She
+was born on the ocean, with the billowy sea for her cradle, and the
+tempest for her lullaby. Her parents emigrated from England to this
+country in 1742, and settled in the unfortunate vale of Wyoming, where
+date her first remembrances, which were all the woes that fell upon her
+family, the wail of the sorrow-stricken and breaking of heart-strings.
+The last meal they took together was a breakfast, after which the father
+and eldest three sons went into the field, and Mary with the other
+little children was playing not far from the house. They were suddenly
+startled by a shriek, and knew it must be from their mother. On running
+in they saw her in the hands of two Indians, who were holding her fast. A
+little boy ran to call his father, and found him also bound by another of
+the party, and his eldest brother lying dead upon the earth; the other
+two fled to Virginia, where they had an uncle, as Mary afterward learned,
+and those who remained were made captives and hurried into the woods. All
+day they were obliged to march in single file over the rough, cold soil.
+Night found them in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by their
+strange captors, and all the horrors of Indian life or Indian death
+staring them in the face. They had no hope of mercy, whether permitted to
+live or condemned to die. The mother said to Mary, "My daughter, you, I
+think will be permitted to live, but they will deprive you of your father
+and mother, and perhaps of your brothers and sisters, so that you will be
+alone. But endeavor in all things to please the Indians, and they will be
+more kind to you. Do not forget your own language, and never fail to
+repeat your catechism and the Lord's prayer every morning and evening
+while you live." This she promised to do, and having kissed her child,
+the mother was removed from her sight.
+
+Mary must at this time have been ten years of age. She was afterwards
+told, when she could understand the Indian language, that they would not
+have killed her parents if the captors had not been pursued, and that a
+little boy, who was the son of a neighbor, and was also taken, was given
+to the French, two of whom were of the party.
+
+In the marches of the Indians it was the custom for one to linger behind,
+and poke up the grass with a stick after a party had passed along, to
+conceal all traces of their footsteps, so a pursuit was seldom
+successful. In deviating from a direct course in order not to get lost,
+they noticed the moss upon the trees, which always grows thickest upon
+the north side, as the south side being most exposed to the sun, became
+soonest dry. They also had some knowledge of the stars, and knew from the
+position of certain clusters that were to be seen at certain seasons,
+which was east and which west.
+
+Mary was adopted in place of two brothers who had fallen in battle, and
+for whom the lamentations had not died away. The ceremony of adoption is
+very solemn, requiring the deliberations of a council and the formal
+bestowing of a name, as a sort of baptism, from which time the captive is
+not allowed to speak any other language but the Indian, and must in all
+things conform to Indian habits and tastes.
+
+It is customary among them to give children a name which corresponds with
+the sports and dependence of childhood, and when they arrive at maturity
+to change it for one that corresponds with the duties and employments of
+manhood and womanhood. The first name is given by the relatives and
+afterwards publicly announced in council. The second is bestowed in the
+same way; and by this they are ever afterward called, except on becoming
+a Sachem, and, sometimes, on becoming a Chief or warrior another name is
+taken, and each denotes definitely the new position. Each clan, too, had
+its peculiar names, so that when a person's name was mentioned it was
+immediately known to what clan he belonged.
+
+A curious feature in the Indian code of etiquette is that it is
+exceedingly impolite to ask a person's name, or to speak it in his
+presence. In the social circle and all private conversation the person
+spoken of is described if it is necessary to allude to him, as the person
+who sits there, or who lives in that house, or wears such a dress. If I
+ask a woman, whose husband is present if that is Mr. B-- she blushes, and
+stammers, and replies, "He is my child's father," in order to avoid
+speaking his name in his presence, which would offend him. On asking a
+man his name he remained silent, not understanding the reason the
+question was repeated, when he indignantly replied, "Do you think that I
+am an owl to go about hooting my name everywhere?" The name of the owl in
+Indian corresponding exactly to the note he utters.
+
+When Mary Jemmison had been formally named De-he-wa-mis, they called her
+daughter and sister, and treated her in all respects as if she had been
+born among them and the same blood flowed in her veins, or rather, they
+were accustomed to be more kind to captives than to their own children,
+because they had not been inured to the same hardships. There was no
+difference in the cares bestowed, no allusion was ever made to the child
+as if it belonged to a hated race, and it never felt the want of
+affection.
+
+Mary said her tasks were always light, and everything was done to win her
+love and make her happy. She now and then longed for the comforts of her
+cottage home, and wept at the thought of her mother's cruel death, but
+gradually learned to love the freedom of the forest, and to gambol freely
+and gaily with her Indian play-mates. When she was named they threw her
+dress away, and clothed her in deer skins and moccasins, and painted her
+face in true Indian style. She never spoke English in their presence, as
+they did not allow it, but when alone, did not forget her mother's
+injunction, and repeated her prayers and all the words she could
+remember, thus retaining enough of the language to enable her easily to
+recall it when she should again return to civilized society, as she
+constantly indulged the hope of doing, by an exchange of captives.
+
+But when she was fourteen years of age, her mother selected for her a
+husband, to whom she was married according to Indian custom. His name was
+Sheningee, and though she was not acquainted with him previously, and of
+course had no affection for him, but proved not only an amiable and
+excellent man but a congenial companion, whom she loved devotedly. He had
+all the noble qualities of an Indian, being handsome and brave, and
+generous, and kind, and to her very gentle and affectionate.
+
+Now she became thoroughly reconciled to Indian life, her greatest sorrow
+being the necessary absence of her husband on the war-path and hunting
+excursions. She followed the occupation of a woman, tilled the fields,
+dressed the meats and skins, and gathered the fuel for the winter's fire,
+and although this seems to the whites as unfeminine labor, it was
+performed at their leisure, and occupied very little of their time.
+
+When the hunters returned they were weary and passive, and seldom were
+guilty of fault-finding, and so well did an Indian woman know her duty,
+that her husband was not obliged to make his wants known. Obedience was
+required in all respects, and where there was harmony and affection,
+cheerfully yielded, and knowing as they did that separation would be the
+consequence of neglect of duty and unkindness, there was really more
+self-control, and about little things, than those who are bound for
+life. They did not agree to live together through good and through evil
+reports, but only while they loved and confided in each other, and they
+were therefore careful not to throw lightly away this love and affection.
+
+The labor of the field was performed in so systematic a manner, and by so
+thorough and wisely divisioned labor, that there were none of the
+jealousies and enjoyings which exist among those who wish to hoard, and
+ambitious to excel in style and equipage. And before the fire-water came
+among them, dissentions of any kind were almost unknown. This has been
+the fruitful source of all their woes. It was not till Mary became a
+mother that she gave up all longing for civilized society, and
+relinquished all hope of again returning to the abodes of the white man.
+Now she had a tie to bind her which could not be broken. If she should
+find her white friends they would not recognize her Indian husband, or
+consider her lawfully married: they would not care to be connected by
+ties of blood to a people whom they despised: her child would not be
+happy among those who looked upon her as inferior, and she herself had no
+education to fit her for the companionship of the white people. She
+looked upon her little daughter and thought, it is Sheningee's--it is
+dearer to me than all things else--I could not endure to see her treated
+with aversion or neglect.
+
+But only a little while was she permitted this happiness, her daughter
+died while yet an infant, and when Sheningee was away. Again the feeling
+of desolation came over her young spirit, but all around her ministered
+in every way to her comfort, and became more than ever endeared to her
+heart. After a long absence. Sheningee returned. She afterwards had a
+son, and named him after her father, to which no objection was made by
+her Indian friends, and her love for her husband became idolatry. In her
+eyes he seemed everything noble and good: she mourned his departure and
+longed for his return, for his affection prompted him to treat her with
+gentle and winning kindness which is the spirit of true love alone.
+
+But again the separation, and she must pass another winter alone. For
+hunting was the Indian's toil, and though they delighted in it, the pangs
+of parting from his wife and little one, made it a sacrifice, and spread
+a dark cloud over a long period of his life. And now it became dark
+indeed to Mary, for she waited long and Sheningee came not. She put
+everything in order in his little dwelling. She dressed new skins for his
+couch, and smoked venison to please his taste. She made the fire bright
+to welcome him, hoping every evening when she lay down with her baby upon
+her bosom, that ere the morning sun the husband and father would gladden
+them by his smiles, but in vain; winter had passed away, and the spring,
+and then came the sad tidings that he was dead, she became a widow and
+her child fatherless.
+
+Very long did she mourn Sheningee, for it seemed to her there was none
+like him. But again the sympathies of his people created a new link to
+bind her to them, and she said she could not have loved a mother or
+sisters more dearly than she did those who stood in this relationship to
+her, and soothed her with their loving words.
+
+Not for four years was she again urged to marry, and during this time
+there was an exchange of prisoners and she had an opportunity to return
+to her kindred; she was left to do as she chose. They told her she might
+go, but if she preferred to remain she should still be their daughter and
+sister, and they would give her land for her own where she might always
+dwell. Again she thought of the prejudice she would everywhere meet, and
+that she could never patiently listen to reproaches concerning her
+husband's people. It would not be believed that he was noble, because he
+was an Indian; and she would have no near relatives and those she had
+might reject her if she should seek them, so she came to the final
+conclusion and never more sighed for the advantages or pleasures of
+civilized life. She came with the brothers of Sheningee to the banks of
+the Genesee, where she resided the remaining seventy-two years of her
+life.
+
+Her second husband--Hiokatoo--she never learned to love. He was a Chief
+and a warrior brave and fearless; but though he was always kind to her,
+he was a man of blood. He delighted in deeds of cruelty and delighted to
+relate them. And now the fire water had become common, and the good were
+bad and the bad worse, so that dissensions arose in families and in
+neighborhoods, and the happiness which had been almost without alloy was
+no longer known among these simple people.
+
+She adds her testimony to that of all travelers and historians concerning
+the purity of their lives, having never herself received the slightest
+insult from an Indian and scarcely knowing an instance of infidelity or
+immorality. But when once they had tasted of the maddening draught the
+thirst was insatiable, and all they had would be given for a glass of
+something to destroy their reason. Now they were indeed converted into
+fiends and furies and sold themselves to swift destruction.
+
+Hiokatoo hesitated at no crime and took pleasure in everything dark and
+terrible, but this was a small trial compared to those which Mrs.
+Jemmison was called upon to endure from the intoxication and recklessness
+of her son. Her eldest, the son of Sheningee, was murdered by John, the
+son of Hiokatoo, who afterward murdered his own brother Jesse, and came
+to the same violent death himself at the hands of others. When they came
+to be in the midst of temptation there was no restraining principle, and,
+even after they grew up her house was the scene of quarrels and confusion
+in consequence of their intemperance, and she knew no rest from fear of
+some calamity from the indulgence of their unbridled passions. The Chief
+of the Seneca nation, to which her second husband belonged, gave her a
+large tract of land, and when it became necessary that it should be
+secured to her by treaty, she plead her own case. The commissioners
+without inquiring particularly concerning the dimensions of her lots,
+allowed her to make her own boundaries, and when the document was signed
+and she was in firm possession it was found that she was the owner of
+nearly four thousand acres, of which only a deed in her own hand-writing
+could deprive her. But though she was rich she toiled not the less
+dilligently and forsook not the sphere of woman in attending to the ways
+of her household, and also, true to her Indian education, she planted and
+hoed and harvested, retaining her Indian dress and habits till the day of
+her death. During the revolutionary war her house was made the rendevous
+and headquarters of British officers and Indian Chiefs, as her sympathies
+were entirely with her red brethren, and the cause they espoused was the
+one she preferred to aid. It was in her power to sympathize with many a
+lone captive, she always remembered her own anguish at the prospect of
+spending her life in the wilderness. The companion of Indians, and though
+she had learned to love instead of fearing them, and knew they were, as a
+people, deserving of respect and the highest honor, she understood the
+feelings of those who knew them not.
+
+Her supplication procured the release of many from torture, and her
+generous kindness clothed the naked and fed the starving.
+
+Lot after lot, acre after acre the Indians sold their lands, and at
+length the beautiful valley of the Genesee fell into the hands of the
+white people, except the dominion of "the white woman," as she was always
+called, which couldn't be given up without her consent. She refused, at
+the time of the sale, to part with her portion, but after the Indians
+removed to Buffalo reservation and she was left alone, though a lady in
+the manor and surrounded by white people, she preferred to take her abode
+with those whom she now called her own people. Most emphatically did she
+adopt the language of Ruth in the days of old, "Entreat me not to leave
+thee, or return from following after thee, for whither thou goest I will
+go, and where thou lodgest I will lodge, thy people will be my people,
+and thy God my God, where thou diest will I die, and there will I be
+buried."
+
+She as as thoroughly pagan as the veriest Indian who had never heard of
+God, and she exclaimed with him that their religion was good enough and
+she desired no change.
+
+She was ninety years of age--eighty years she had been an exile from the
+land of her birth. She had forgotten the prayer her mother taught her,
+and knew nothing of the worship of her father, when one morning she sent
+a messenger to tell the missionaries she wished to see them. She had ever
+before refused to listen to them if they came to her dwelling, but they
+hastened to obey the summons, glad to feel that they should be welcomed,
+though quite uncertain concerning the nature of the interview she
+proposed. She was literally withered away, her face was scarcely larger
+than an infant's and completely checkered with fine wrinkles, her teeth
+were entirely gone and her mouth so sunken that her nose and chin almost
+met, her hair not silvery, but snowy white, except a little lock by each
+ear which still retained the sandy hue of childhood, her form which was
+always slender, was bent, and her limbs could not longer support her. She
+had revived the knowledge of her language since she had dwelled among the
+white people but, "Oh," said she, as the ladies entered, "I have
+forgotten how to pray; my mother taught me and told me never to forget
+this, though I remembered nothing else," and then she exclaimed, "Oh,
+God! have mercy upon me." This expression she had heard in her old age,
+and now uttered it in the fullness of her heart. There had come a gleam
+of light through all the darkness and superstitions of Paganism, and this
+spark was kindled at the fireside of that little cottage home, and fell
+upon her heart from a mother's lips, and now revived at the remembrance
+of a mother's love and her dying blessing. It was eighty years since she
+had seen that mother's face, as she breathed out her soul in anguish,
+bending over her in the silent depths of the wilderness, eighty years
+since she listened to "Our Father who art in Heaven," from Christian
+lips, and now the still small voice which had so long been silent, spoke
+aloud, and startled her as if an angel called. She tried to stifle it,
+and for many days after it awoke in her bosom, she heeded it not, but it
+gave her no rest. No earthly voice had since reminded her that her heart
+was sinful, and needed to be "washed in the blood of the lamb, that
+taketh away the sins of the world," in order to be clean. The seed which
+had been sown in it when she was a little child, had just sprung up; the
+snows of eighty winters had not chilled it, the mildew of nearly a
+century had not blighted it, and the heavy hand of hundreds of calamities
+had left it unharmed. She had not been in the midst of corruptions,
+therefore it had not been destroyed. The little germ was still alive, and
+proving that it had not been in vain.
+
+The aged woman sat pillowed up in bed with her children, and children's
+children of three generations around her, and lifting her withered hands
+and sunken eyes to Heaven, once more repeated, "Our Father, who art in
+Heaven," while a new light, like a halo, overspread her face, the tears
+flowed in floods down her cheeks, and in the dark eyes of every listener
+there glistened tears of sympathy in her new found happiness.
+
+When she was asked if she regretted that she had not consented to be
+exchanged, she still said, "No. I love the Indians; I love them better
+than the white people. Because they had been kind to me, and provided
+generously for my youth and old age, and my children would inherit an
+abundance from the avails of the lands, and herds, and flocks."
+
+A few days after the new light dawned upon her spirit, in the year 1833,
+Mary was numbered with the dead. She had embraced the faith which makes
+no difference between those who come at the first or the eleventh hour,
+and those who were present at the dissolution of her soul and body,
+doubted not that Jesus had whispered to her the same consolation that
+fell upon the heart of the thief upon the Cross, "This day shall thou be
+with me in Paradise"
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+CUSTOMS AND INDIVIDUAL TRAITS OF CHARACTER.
+
+The more you read, and the better you understand Indian history, the more
+you will be impressed with the injustice which has been done the
+Iroquois, not only in dispossessing them of their inheritance, but in the
+estimation which has been made of their character. They have been
+represented, as seen in the transition state, the most unfavorable
+possible for judging correctly. In the chapter of National Traits of
+Character, I have in two or three instances quoted Washington Irving and
+might again allow his opinions to relieve my own from the charge of
+partiality. He says, in speaking of this same subject, that "the current
+opinion of Indian character is too apt to be formed from the miserable
+hordes which infest the frontiers, and hang on the shirts of settlements.
+These are too commonly composed of degenerate beings, corrupted and
+enfeebled by the voice of society, without being benefited by its
+civilization."
+
+"The proud independence which formed the main pillar of motive virtue has
+been spoken down, and the whole moral fabric lies in ruins. The spirits
+are humiliated and debased by a sense of inferiority, and their native
+courage cowed and daunted by the superior knowledge and power of their
+enlightened neighbors. Society has advanced upon them like one of a those
+withering airs that will sometimes breed desolation over a whole region
+of fertility. It has enervated their strength, multiplied their diseases,
+and superinduced upon their original barbarity the law-vices of
+artificial life. It has given them a thousand superfluous wants, while it
+has diminished their means of mere existence. It has driven before it the
+animals of the chase, who fly from the sound of the axe and the smoke of
+the settlement and seek refuge in the depths of remote forests, and yet
+untrodden wilds. Thus do we often find the Indians in the frontiers to be
+mere wrecks and remnants of once powerful tribes, who have lingered in
+the vicinity of settlements, and sunk into precarious and vagabond
+existence. Poverty, repining and hopeless poverty--a canker on the mind
+before unknown to them--corrodes their spirits and blights every free and
+noble qualities of their nature. They loiter like vagrants about the
+settlements among spacious dwellings, replete with elaborate comforts,
+which only renders them more sensible of the comparative wretchedness of
+their own condition. Luxury spreads its ample board before their eyes,
+but they are excluded from the banquet; plenty revels over the fields,
+but they are starving in the midst of abundance. The whole wilderness
+blossomed into a garden, but they feel as reptiles that infest them. How
+different was their state while undisputed lords of the soil? Their wants
+were few, and the means of gratification within their reach, they saw
+every one among them sharing the same lot, enduring the same hardships,
+feeding on the same aliments, arrayed in the same rude garment. No roof
+then rose under whose sheltering wings, that was not ever open to the
+homeless stranger, no smoke curled among the trees, but he was welcome to
+sit down by its fire and join the hunter in his repast."
+
+In discussing Indian character, writers have been too prone to indulge in
+vulgar prejudice and passionate exaggeration, instead of the candid
+temper of the true philosopher. They have not sufficiently considered the
+peculiar circumstance in which the Indians have been placed, and the
+peculiar principles under which they having been educated. No being acts
+more rigidly from rule than the Indians, his whole conduct is regulated
+according to some general maxims early implanted in his mind. The moral
+laws which govern him are few, but he conforms to them all. The white man
+abounds in laws and religion, morals, and manners, but how many of them
+does he violate. In their intercourse with the Indians the white people
+were continually trampling upon their religion and their sacred rights.
+They were expected to look merely on while the graves of their fathers
+were robbed of their treasures, and the bones of their fathers were left
+to bleach upon the fields. And when exasperated by the brutality of their
+conquerors, and driven to deeds of vengence, there was very little
+appreciation of the motives which influenced them, and no attempt was
+made to palliate their cruelties.
+
+It was their custom to bury the dead with their best clothing, and the
+various implements they had been in the habit of using whilst living. If
+it was a warrior that they were preparing for burial, they placed his
+tomahawk by his side and his knife in his shield; with the hunter, his
+bow and arrows and implements for cooking his food; with the woman, their
+kettles and cooking apparatus and also food for all. Tobacco was
+deposited in every grave; for to smoke was an Indian's idea of felicity
+in the body and out of it, and in this there was not so much difference
+as one might wish, between them and gentlemen of a paler hue.
+
+Among the Iroquois, and many other Indian nations, it was the custom to
+place the dead upon scaffolds, built for the purpose, from tree to tree,
+or within a temporary inclosure, and underneath a fire was kept burning
+for several days.
+
+They had known instances of persons reviving after they were supposed to
+be dead, and this led to the conclusion that the spirit sometimes
+returned to animate the body after it had once fled. If there was no
+signs of life for ten days, the fire was extinguished and the body left
+unmolested until decomposition had begun to take place, when the remains
+were buried, or, as was often the case, kept in the lodge for many years.
+If they were obliged to desert the settlement where they had long
+resided, these skeletons were collected from all the families and buried
+in one common grave, with the same ceremonies as when a single individual
+was interred.
+
+They did not suppose the spirit was instantaneously transferred from
+earth to Heaven, but that it wandered in aerial region for many moons. In
+later days they only allowed ten days for its flight. Their period for
+mourning continued only whilst the spirit is wandering, as soon as they
+believe it has entered Heaven they commenced rejoicing, saying, there is
+no longer cause for sorrow, because it is now where happiness dwells
+forever. Sometimes a piteous wailing was kept up every night for a long
+time, but it was only their bereavement that they bewailed, as they did
+not fear about the fate of those who died. Not until they had heard of
+Purgatory from the Jesuits, or endless woe from Protestants, did they
+look upon death with terror, or life as anything but a blessing.
+
+They were sometimes in the habit of addressing the dead, as if they could
+hear. The following are the words of a mother as she bends over her only
+son to look for the last time upon his beloved face: "My son, listen once
+more to the words of thy mother. Thou wast brought into life with her
+pains, thou wast nourished with her life. She has attempted to be
+faithful in raising you up. When you were young she loved you as her
+life. Thy presence has been a source of great joy to her. Upon thee she
+depended for support and comfort in her declining days. But thou hast
+outstripped her and gone before. Our wise and great Creator has ordered
+it thus. By his will, I am left yet, to taste more of the miseries of
+this world. Thy relations and friends have gathered about thy body to
+look upon thee for the last time. They mourn, as with one mind, thy
+departure from among us. We, too, have but a few days more and our
+journey will be ended. We part now, and you are conveyed out of our
+sight. But we shall soon meet again, and shall look upon each other, then
+we shall part no more. Our Maker has called thee home, and thither will
+we follow."
+
+After the adoption of the league of the Iroquois, and they dwelled in
+villages, this was one of the duties enjoined by their religious teacher
+at their festivals: "It is the will of the Great Spirit that you
+reverence the aged, even though they be helpless as infants." And also,
+"Kindness to the orphan, and hospitality to all." "If you tie up the
+clothes of an orphan child, the Great Spirit will notice it, and reward
+you for it." "To adopt an orphan, and bring them up in virtuous ways, is
+pleasing to the Great Spirit." "If strangers wander about your abode,
+welcome him to your home, be hospitable towards him, speak to him with
+kind words, and forget not, always to make mention of the Great Spirit."
+
+The Indians lamentations, on being driven far away from the graves of
+their fathers, have been the theme of all historians and travelers. It
+can be easily imagined how those who so loved their homes and revered
+their fathers' graves, would become fierce with indignation and rage, on
+seeing themselves treated as without human feeling, and the sacred relics
+of the dead ploughed up and scattered as indifferently as the stones, or
+the bones of the moose and the deer of the forest. It was this feeling
+that often prompted them to acts of hostility, which those who
+experienced them, ascribed to wanton cruelty and barbarity.
+
+In many of the villages there was a strangers home, a house, for
+strangers where they were placed, while the old men went about collecting
+skins for them to sleep upon, and food for them to eat, expecting no
+reward.
+
+They called it very rude for them to stare at them as they passed in the
+streets, and said that they had as much curiosity as the white people,
+but they did not gratify it by intruding upon them, by examining them.
+They would sometimes hide behind trees in order to look at strangers, but
+never stood openly and gaze at them.
+
+Their respective attention to missionaries was often the result of their
+rules of politeness, as it is a part of the Indian's code. Their councils
+are eminent for decorum, and no person is interrupted during a speech.
+Some Indians, after respectfully listening to a missionary, thought they
+would relate to him some of their legends, but the good man could not
+restrain his indignation, but pronounced them foolish fables, while what
+he told them was sacred truth. The Indian was, in his turn, offended, and
+said, we listened to your stories, why do you not listen to ours? you are
+not instructed in the common rules of civility.
+
+A hunter, in his wandering for game, fell among the back settlements of
+Virginia, and on account of the inclemency of the weather, sought refuge
+at the house of a planter, whom he met at the door. He was refused
+admission. Being both hungry and thirsty, he asked for a bit of bread and
+a cup of cold water. But the answer to every appeal was, "_You, shall
+have nothing here, get you gone you Indian dog!_"
+
+Some months afterwards this same planter lost himself in the woods, and
+after a weary day of wandering, came to an Indian cabin, into which he
+was welcomed. On inquiring the way and distance to the settlement, and
+finding it was too far to think of going that night, he asked if he could
+remain. Very cordially the inmates replied, that he was at liberty to
+stay, and all they had was at his service. They gave him food, they made
+a bright fire to cheer and warm him, and supplied him with clean deer-
+skin for his couch, and promised to conduct him the next day on his
+journey. In the morning the Indian hunter and the planter set out
+together through the forest, when they came in sight of the white man's
+dwelling, the hunter, about to leave, turned to his companion, and said,
+"Do you not know me?" The white man was struck with horror, that he had
+been so long in the power of one whom he had so inhumanly treated, and
+expected now to experience his revenge. But on beginning to make excuses,
+the Indian interrupted him saying, "when you see a poor Indian fainting
+for a cup of cold water, don't say again, 'get you gone, you Indian
+dog.'" and turned back to his hunting grounds. Which best deserved the
+appellation of a christian, and to which will it most likely be said,
+"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these, ye have done it
+unto me."
+
+
+
+
+CREATION.
+
+
+ORIGIN OF THE CONTINENT, THE ANIMAL, AND OF THE INDIAN.
+
+INTRODUCTION OF THE TWO PRINCIPLES OF GOOD AND EVIL INTO THE GOVERNMENT
+OF THE WORLD.
+
+The Tuscarora tradition opens with the notion that there were originally
+two worlds, or regions of space, that is an upper and lower world. The
+upper world was inhabited by beings resembling the human race. And the
+lower world by monsters, moving on the surface and in the waters, which
+is in darkness. When the human species were transferred below, and the
+lower sphere was about to be rendered fit for their residence; the act of
+their transferrance is by these ideas, that a female who began to descend
+into the lower world, which is a region of darkness, waters, and
+monsters, she was received on the back of a tortoise, where she gave
+birth to male twins, and there she expired. The shell of this tortoise
+expanded into a continent, which, in the English language, is called
+"island," and is named by the Tuscaroras, Yowahnook. One of the children
+was called Got-ti-gah-rah-quast, or good mind, the other, Got-ti-gah-
+rak-senh, or bad mind. These two antagonistical principles were at
+perpetual variance, it being the law of one to counteract whatever the
+other did. They were not, however, men, but gods, or existences, through
+whom the Great Spirit, or "Holder of the Heavens," carried out his
+purposes.
+
+The first work of Got-ti-gah-rah-quast was to create the sun out of the
+head of his dead mother, and the moon and stars out of the other parts of
+her body. The light these gave drove the monsters into the deep waters to
+hide themselves. He then prepared the surface of the continent and fitted
+it for human habitation, by making it into creeks, rivers, lakes and
+plains, and by filling them with the various kinds of animals and
+vegetable kingdom. He then formed a man and a woman out of the earth,
+gave them life, and called them Ongwahonwd, that is to say, a real
+people. Meanwhile the bad mind created mountains, water-falls, and
+steeps, caves, reptiles, serpents, apes, and other objects supposed to be
+injurious to, or in mockery to mankind. He made an attempt also to
+conceal the land animals in the ground, so as to deprive men of the means
+of subsistance. This continued opposition, to the wishes of the Good
+Mind, who was perpetually at work, in restoring the effects and
+displacements, of the wicked devices of the other, at length led to a
+personal combat, of which the time and instrument of battle were agreed
+on. They fought two days; the Good Mind using the deer's horn, and the
+other, using wild flag leafs, as arms. Got-ti-gah-rah-quast, or Good
+Mind, who had chosen the horn, finally prevailed. His antagonist sunk
+down into a region of darkness, and became the Evil Spirit of the world
+of despair. Got-ti-gah-rah-quast, having obtained his triumph, retired
+from the earth.
+
+The earliest tradition that we have of the Iroquois is as follows: That a
+company of Ongwahonwa being encamped on the banks of the St. Lawrence
+River, where they were invaded by a nation--few in number, but were great
+giants, called "Ronongwaca." War after war was brought on by personal
+encounters and incidents, and carried on with perfidity and cruelty. They
+were delivered at length by the skill and courage of Yatontea, who, after
+retreating before them, raised a large body of men and defeated them,
+after which they were supposed to be extinct. And the next they suffered
+was from the malice, perfidity and lust of an extraordinary appearing
+person, who they called That-tea-ro-skeh, who was finally driven across
+the St. Lawrence, and come to a town south of the shores of Lake Ontario,
+where, however, he only disguised his intentions, to repeat his cruel and
+perfidious deeds. He assassinated many persons, and violated six virgins.
+They pointed to him as a fiend in human shape.
+
+In this age of monsters, the country was again invaded by another
+monster, which they called Oyahguaharh, supposed to be some great
+mammoth, who was furious against men, and destroyed the lives of many
+Indian hunters, but he was at length killed, after a long and severe
+contest.
+
+A great horned serpent also next appeared on Lake Ontario who, by means
+of his poisonous breath, caused disease, and caused the death of many. At
+length the old women congregated, with one accord, and prayed to the
+Great Spirit that he would send their grand-father, the Thunder, who
+would get to their relief in this, their sore time of trouble, and at the
+same time burning tobacco as burned offerings. So finally the monster was
+compelled to retire in the deeps of the lake by thunder bolts. Before
+this calamity was forgotten another happened. A blazing star fell into
+their fort, situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence, and destroyed the
+people. Such a phenomenon caused a great panic and consternation and
+dread, which they regarded as ominious of their entire destruction. Not
+long after this prediction of the blazing star it was verified. These
+tribes, who were held together by feeble ties, fell into dispute and wars
+among themselves, which were pursued through a long period, until they
+had utterly destroyed each other, and so reduced their numbers that the
+lands were again over-run with wild beasts.
+
+At this period there were six families took refuge in a large cave in a
+mountain, where they dwelled for a long time. The men would come out
+occasionally to hunt for food. This mammoth cave was situated at or near
+the falls of the Oswego River. Taryenya-wa-gon (Holder of the Heavens)
+extricated these six families from this subterraneous bowels and confines
+of the mountain. They always looked to this divine messenger, who had
+power to assume various shapes, as emergency dictated, as the friend and
+patron of their nation.
+
+As soon as they were released he gave them instructions respecting the
+mode of hunting, matrimony, worship and many other things. He warned them
+against the evil spirit, and gave them corn, beans, squash, potatoes,
+tobacco, and dogs to hunt their game. He bid them go toward the rising of
+the sun, and he personally guided them, until they came to a river, which
+they named Yehnonanatche (that is going around a mountain,) now Mohawk,
+they went down the bank of the river and came to where it discharges into
+a great river, running towards the midway sun, they named it Skaw-nay-
+taw-ty (that is beyond the pineries) now Hudson, and went down the banks
+of the river and touched the bank of the great water. The company made an
+encampment at this place and remained for a while. The people was then of
+one language. Some of them went on the banks of the great waters, towards
+the midway sun, and never returned. But the company that remained at the
+camp returned as they came--along the bank of the river, under the
+direction of Taryenyawagon (Holder of the Heavens).
+
+This company were a particular body, which called themselves of one
+household. Of these there were six families, and they entered into an
+agreement to preserve the chain of alliance which should not be
+extinguished under any circumstance.
+
+The company advanced some distance up the river of Skawnatawty (Hudson).
+The Holder of the Heavens directed the first family to make their
+residence near the bank of the river, and the family was named Tehawrogeh
+(that is, a speech divided) now Mohawk. Their language soon changed. The
+company then turned and went towards the sun-setting, and traveled about
+two days and a half, then came to a creek, which was named Kawnatawteruh
+(that is pineries). The second family was directed to make their
+residence near the creek; and the family was named Nehawretahgo (that is
+big tree) now Oneida. Their language was changed likewise. The company
+continued to proceed toward the sun-setting under the direction of the
+Holder of the Heavens. The third family was directed to make their
+residence on a mountain, named Onondaga (now Onondaga), and the family
+was named Seuhnowhahtah (that is, carrying the name.) Their language also
+changed. The rest of the company continued their journey towards the sun-
+setting. The fourth family was directed to make their residence near a
+large lake, named Goyogoh (that is a mountain rising from water) now
+Cayuga, and the family was named Sho-nea-na-we-to-wah (that is a great
+pipe). Their language was altered. The rest of the company kept their
+course towards the sun-setting. The fifth family was directed to make
+their residence near a high mountain, situated south of Canandaigua Lake,
+which was named Tehow-nea-nyo-hent (that is possessing a door) now
+Seneca. Their language was also changed. The sixth, and last family, went
+on their journey toward the sun-setting, until they touched the bank of
+the great lake, which was named Kan-ha-gwa-rah-ka (that is a Cape) now
+Erie, and then went toward, between the midway and sun-setting, and
+traveled a great distance, when they came to a large river, which was
+named O-nah-we-yo-ka (that is a principal stream) now Mississippi. The
+people discovered a grapevine lying across the river, by which a part of
+the people went over, but while they were crossing the vine broke. They
+were divided, and became enemies, to those that were over the river in
+consequence of which, they were obliged to abandon the journey. Those
+that went over the river were finally lost and forgotten from the memory
+of those that remained on the eastern banks.
+
+Ta-ren-ya-wa-go (the Holder of the Heavens), who was the patron of the
+five home bands, did not fail, in this crisis, to direct them their way
+also. He instructed those on the eastern bank the art of the bow and
+arrows, to use for game and in time of danger. After giving them suitable
+instructions, he guided their footsteps in their journeys, south and
+east, until they had crossed the Alleghany Mountains, and with some
+wanderings they finally reached the shores of the sea, on the coast which
+is now called the Carolinas. By this time their language was changed.
+They were directed to fix their residence on the banks of the Gow-ta-no
+(that is, pine in the water) now Neuse River, in North Carolina. Here Ta-
+ren-ya-wa-gon left them to hunt, increase and prosper, whilst he returned
+to direct the other five nations to form their confederacy.
+
+Tarenyawagon united in one person the power of a God and a man, and gave
+him the expressive name of the Holder of the Heavens, and was capable of
+assuming any form or shape that he chosed, but appeared to them only in
+the form of a man, and taught them hunting, gardening, and the knowledge
+of the arts of war. He imparted to them the knowledge of the laws and
+government of the Great Spirit, and gave them directions and
+encouragement how to fulfill their duties and obligations. He gave them
+corn, beans, and fruits of various kinds, with the knowledge of planting
+those fruits. He taught them how to kill and to cook the game. He made
+the forest free to all the tribes to hunt, and removed obstructions from
+the streams. He took his position, sometimes, on the top of high cliffs,
+springing, if needs be, over frightful chasms; and he flew, as it were,
+over great lakes in a wonderful canoe of immaculate whiteness and of
+magic power.
+
+Having finished his commission with the Tuscaroras at Cautanoh, in North
+Carolina, and the other five families, which were left at the north, he
+came down to closer terms and intimacy with the Onondagas. He resolved to
+lay aside his divine character and live among them, that he might
+exemplify the maxims which he had taught. And for this purpose he
+selected a handsome spot of ground on the southern banks of Cross Lake,
+New York. Here he built his cabin, and from the shores of this lake he
+went into the forest, like the rest of his companions, in quest of game
+and fish. He took a wife of the Onondagas, by whom he had an only
+daughter, whom he tenderly loved, and most kindly and carefully treated
+and instructed, so that she was known far and near as his favorite child,
+and was regarded almost as a goddess. The excellence of his character,
+and his great sagacity and good counsels, led the people to regard him
+with veneration, and they gave him, in his sublunary character, the name
+of Hi-a-wat-ha (a wise man). People came to him from all quarters, and
+his abode was thronged by all ages and conditions who came for advice.
+
+He became the first chief of all the land, and whomsoever he made his
+companions and friends were likewise clothed with the authority of chiefs
+in the tribe. In this manner all power came naturally into his hands, and
+the tribe rejoiced that they had so wise and good a man as their ruler.
+For in those days each tribe was independent of all others; they had not
+yet formed a league, but fought and made war with each other.
+
+Nothing that belonged to Hiawatha, in his character of Tarenyawagon, was
+more remarkable than his light and magic canoe, which shone with a
+supernatural lustre, and in which he had performed so many of his
+extraordinary feats. This canoe was laid aside when he came to fix his
+residenee at Cross Lake, and never used it but for great and
+extraordinary purposes. When great councils were called, and he assembled
+the wise men to deliberate together, the sacred canoe was carefully
+lifted from the grand lodge; and after these occasions were ended, it was
+carefully returned to the same receptacle, on the shoulders of men, who
+felt honored in being the bearers of such a precious burden.
+
+Thus passed away many years, and every year saw the people increasing in
+numbers, skill, arts and bravery. It was among the Onondagas that
+Tarenyawagon had located himself, although he regarded the other tribes
+as friends and brothers; he had become indentified as an adopted member
+of this particular tribe. Under his teaching and influence they became
+the first among all the original tribes, and rose to the highest
+distinction in every art which was known to or prized by the Akonoshuni
+(Iroquois). They were the wisest counsellors, the best orators, the most
+expert hunters, and the bravest warriors. They also afforded the highest
+examples of obedience to the laws of the Great Spirit. If offences took
+place, Hiawatha redressed them, and his wisdom and moderation preserved
+the tribe from feuds. Hence, the Onondagas were early noted among all the
+tribes for their pre-eminence. He appeared to devote his chief attention
+to them, that he might afterwards make them examples to the others, in
+arts and wisdom. They were foremost in the overthrow of the Stonish
+Giants and the killing of the great Serpent. To be an Onondaga was the
+highest honor.
+
+While Hiawatha was thus living in domestic life quietly among the people
+of the hills, and administering their simple government with wisdom, they
+became alarmed by the sudden news of the approach of a furious and
+powerful enemy from north of the great lakes. As the enemy advanced, they
+made an indiscriminate slaughter of men, women and children. The people
+fled from their villages a short time before them, and there was no heart
+in the people to make a stand against such powerful and ruthless
+invaders. In this emergency, they fled to Hiawatha for his advice. He
+counseled them to call a general council of all the tribes from the east
+and west. "For," said he, "our strength is not in the war club and arrows
+alone, but in wise counsels." He appointed a place on the banks of
+Onondaga Lake for the meeting. It was a clear eminence from which there
+was a wide prospect. Runners were dispatched in every direction, and the
+chiefs, warriors and headmen forthwith assembled in great numbers,
+bringing with them, in the general alarm, their women and children.
+Fleets of canoes were seen on the bosom of the lake, and every inteterior
+warpath was kept open by the foot-prints of the different tribes,
+hurrying to obey the summons of Hiawatha. All but the wise man himself
+had been there for three days, anxiously awaiting the arrival of
+Hiawatha, when a messenger was dispatched after him. They found him
+gloomy and depressed. Some great burden appeared to hang on his mind. He
+told them that evil lay on his path, and that he had fearful forebodings
+of ill-fortune. He felt that he was called to make some great sacrifice,
+but he did not know what it was, it seemed to be hid from him. Least of
+all did he think it was to be his daughter: ever careful of her, he bade
+her kindly to accompany him. Nothing happened to hinder, or at all
+interrupt their voyage. The Talismanic canoe, which held them, gllded
+silently down the waters of the Seneca; not a paddle was necessary to
+give it impetus, while it pursued the downward course of the stream till
+they reached the point of the lake outlet. At this point Hiawatha took
+his paddle and gave it impetus against the current, until they entered on
+the bright and calm surface of the Onondaga, cradled, as this blue sheet
+of water is, among the lofty and far-swelling hills. When the white canoe
+of the venerable chief appeared, a shout of welcome rang among those
+hills. The day was calm and serene. No wind ruffled the lake, and
+scarcely a cloud floated in the sky above. But while the wise man was
+measuring his steps towards the place designated for the council, and
+while ascending from the water's edge, a rumbling and low sound was
+heard, as if it were caused by the approach of a violent, rushing wind.
+Instantly all the eyes were turned upwards, where a small and compact
+mass of cloudy darkness appeared. It gathered in size and velocity as it
+approached, and appeared to be directed inevitably to fall in the midst
+of the assembly. Every one fled in consternation but Hiawatha and his
+daughter. He stood erect, with ornaments waving in his frontlet, and
+besought his daughter calmly to await the issue, "for it is impossible,"
+said he, "to escape the power of the Great Spirit. If he has determined
+our destruction we cannot, by running, fly from him." She modestly
+assented and they stood together, while horror was depicted in the faces
+of the others. But the force of the descending body was that of a sudden
+storm. They had hardly taken the resolution to halt when an immense bird,
+with long, extended wings, came down with swoop. This gigantic agent of
+the sky came with such force that the assembly felt the shock. The girl
+being in a nature, and embodied in the combination of the Terrestial and
+Celestial nature, was beautiful and fascinating in her looks and form,
+was borne away by this Celestial Bird to be seen no more upon the earth.
+But Hiawatha was inconsolable for his loss. He grieved sorely, day and
+night, and wore a desponding and dejected countenance. But these were
+only faint indications of the feelings of his heart. He threw himself
+upon the ground, and refused to be comforted. He seemed dumb with
+melancholy, and the people were concerned of his life. He spoke nothing;
+he made no answers to questions put to him, and laid still as if dead.
+After several days the council appointed a certain merry-hearted Chief to
+make him a visit, and to whisper a word of consolation in his ears to
+arouse him from his stupor. The result was successful. He approached with
+ceremonies and induced him to arise, and named the time when the council
+would convene. Yet haggard with grief, he called for refreshments and
+ate. He then adjusted his wardrobe and head-dress and went to the
+council. He drew his robe of wolf-skin gracefully around him, and walked
+to his seat at the head of the assembled chiefs with a majestic step.
+Stiliness and the most profound attention reigned in the council while he
+presided, and the discussion opened and proceeded. The subject of the
+invasion was handled by several of the ablest counselors and the bravest
+warriors. Various plans were proposed to defeat the enemy. Hiawatha
+listened with silence until all had finished speaking. His opinion was
+then asked. After a brief allusion of the calamity which had befallen him
+through the descent of the great bird by the Great Spirit, he spoke to
+the following effect:
+
+"I have listened to the words of the wise men and brave chiefs, but it is
+not fitting that we should do a thing of so much importance in haste; it
+is a subject demanding calm reflection and mature deliberation. Let us
+postpone the decision for one day. During this time we will weigh well
+the words of the speakers who have already spoken. If they are good, I
+will then approve of them. If they are not, I will then open to you my
+plan. It is one which I have reflected on, and feel confident that it
+will insure safety."
+
+When another day had expired, the council again met. Hiawatha entered the
+assembly with even more than ordinary attention, and every eye was fixed
+upon him, when he began to address the council in the following words:
+
+"Friends and Brothers:--You being members of many tribes, you have come
+from a great distance; the voice of war has aroused you up; you are
+afraid of your homes, your wives and your children; you tremble for your
+safety. Believe me, I am with you. My heart beats with your hearts. We
+are one. We have one common object. We come to promote our common
+interest, and to determine how this can be best done.
+
+"To oppose those hordes of northern tribes, singly and alone, would prove
+certain destruction. We can make no progress in that way. We must unite
+ourselves into one common band of brothers. We must have but one voice.
+Many voices makes confusion. We must have one fire, one pipe and one war
+club. This will give us strength. If our warriors are united they can
+defeat the enemy and drive them from our land; if we do this, we are
+safe.
+
+"Onondaga, you are the people sitting under the shadow of the _Great
+Tree_, whose branches spread far and wide, and whose roots sink deep
+into the earth. You shall be the first nation, because you are warlike
+and mighty.
+
+"Oneida, and you, the people who recline your bodies against the
+_Everlasting Stone_, that cannot be moved, shall be the second
+nation, because you always give good counsel.
+
+"Seneca, and you, the people who have your habitation at the foot of the
+_Great Mountain_, and are overshadowed by its crags, shall be the
+third nation, because you are all greatly gifted in speech.
+
+"Cayuga, you, whose dwelling is in the _Dark Forest_, and whose home
+is everywhere, shall be the fourth nation, because of your superior
+cunning in hunting.
+
+"Mohawk, and you, the people who live in the open country, and possess
+much wisdom, shall be the fifth nation, because you understand better the
+art of raising corn and beans and making cabins.
+
+"You five great and powerful nations, with your tribes, must unite and
+have one common interest, and no foes shall disturb or subdue you.
+
+"And you of the different nations of the south, and you of the west, may
+place yourselves under our protection, and we will protect you. We
+earnestly desire the alliance and friendship of you all.
+
+"And from you, Squaw-ki-haws (being a remote branch of the Seneca
+Nation), being the people who are as the _Feeble Bushes_, shall be
+chosen, a Virgin, who shall be the peacemaker for all the nations of the
+earth, and more particularly the favored Ako-no-shu-ne, which name this
+confederacy shall ever sustain. If we unite in one band the Great Spirit
+will smile upon us, and we shall be free, prosperous and happy; but if we
+shall remain as we are we shall incur his displeasure. We shall be
+enslaved, and perhaps annihilated forever.
+
+"Brothers, these are the words of Hiawatha. Let them sink deep into your
+hearts. I have done."
+
+A deep and impressive silence followed the delivery of this speech. On
+the following day the council again assembled to act on it. High wisdom
+recommended this deliberation.
+
+The union of the tribes into one confederacy was discussed and
+unanimously adopted. To denote the character and intimacy of the union
+they employed the figure of a single council-house, or lodge, whose
+boundaries be co-extensive with their territories. Hence the name of Ako-
+no-shu-ne, who were called the Iroquois.
+
+The great bird which visited them from heaven brought a precious gift to
+the warriors in the white plumes which she shed at the visit. Every
+warrior, as he approached the spot where they fell, picked up a feather
+of snowy white to adorn his crown; and the celestial visitant thus became
+the means of furnishing the aspirants of military fame with an emblem
+which was held in the highest estimation. Succeeding generations imbibed
+the custom from this incident to supply themselves with a plumage
+approaching it as nearly as possible; they selected the plume of the
+white heron.
+
+At the formation of the confederacy Ato-ta-rho, being considered next in
+wisdom and all other traits of character which constitutes the necessary
+qualifications of an honored Sachem, was ordained as the head Sachem of
+the confederacy, which office has been transmitted down to succeeding
+generations of the Onondaga Nation to the present time.
+
+Hiawatha, the guardian and founder of the league, having now accomplished
+the will of the Great Spirit, and the withdrawal of his daughter having
+been regarded by him as a sign that his mission was ended, he immediately
+prepared to make his final departure. Before the great council, which had
+adopted his advice just before dispersing, he arose, with a dignified
+air, and addressed them in the following manner:
+
+"Friends and Brothers:--I have now fulfilled my mission here below; I
+have furnished you seeds and grains for your gardens; I have removed
+obstructions from your waters, and made the forest habitable by teaching
+you how to expel its monsters; I have given you fishing places and
+hunting grounds; I have instructed you in the making and using of war
+implements; I have taught you how to cultivate corn, and many other arts
+and gifts. I have been allowed by the Great Spirit to communicate to you.
+Last of all, I have aided you to form a league of friendship and union.
+If you preserve this, and admit no foreign element of power by the
+admission of other nations, you will always be free, numerous and happy.
+If other tribes and nations are admitted to your councils, they will sow
+the seed of jealousy and discord, and you will become few, feeble and
+enslaved.
+
+"Friends and brothers, these are the last words you will hear from the
+lips of Hiawatha. The Great Creator of our bodies calls me to go; I have
+patiently awaited his summons; I am ready to go. Farewell."
+
+As the voice of the wise man ceased, sweet strains of music from the air
+burst on the ears of the multitude. The whole sky appeared to be filled
+with melody; and while all eyes were directed to catch glimpses of the
+sights, and enjoy strains of the celestial music that filled the sky,
+Hiawatha was seen, seated in his snow-white canoe, amid the air,
+_rising, rising_ with every choral chant that burst out. As he rose
+the sound of the music became more soft and faint, until he vanished amid
+the summer clouds, and the melody ceased. Thus terminated the labors and
+cares of the long-cherished memory of Ta-ren-ya-wa-gon.
+
+I will now resume the history of the sixth and last family, the Tuscarora
+On-gwe-hon-wa, that were left at the Neuse river, or Gan-ta-no. Here they
+increased in numbers, valor and skill, and in all knowledge of the arts
+necessary in forest life. The country was wide and covered with dense
+wilderness, large rivers and lakes, which gave shelter to many fierce
+animals and monsters which beset their pathways and kept them in dread.
+Now the Evil Spirit also plagued them with monstrous visitations. They
+were often induced to change their locations; sometimes from fear of
+enemies and sometimes from epidemics, or some strange visitations.
+
+I will now relate a few of the monsters that plagued them: The first
+enemy that appeared to question their power or disturb their peace was
+the fearful phenomenon of Ko-nea-rah-yah-neh, or the flying heads. The
+heads were enveloped in beard and hair, flaming like fire; they were of
+monstrous size, and shot through the air with the speed of meteors. Human
+power was not adequate to cope with them. The priests pronounced them a
+flowing power of some mysterious influence, and it remained with the
+priests alone to expel them by their magic power.
+
+[Illustration: Flying head and woman sitting by the fire]
+
+Drum and rattle and enchantments were deemed more effective than arrows
+or clubs. One evening, after they had been plagued a long time with
+fearful visitations, the flying head came to the door of a lodge occupied
+by a single female and her dog. She was sitting composedly before the
+fire roasting acorns, which, as they became cooked, she deliberately took
+from the fire and ate. Amazement seized the flying head, who put out two
+huge black paws from under his streaming beard. Supposing the woman to be
+eating live coals he withdrew, and from that time he came no more among
+them.
+
+And they were also invaded by a still more fearful enemy, the Ot-nea-yar-
+heh, or Stonish Giants. They were a powerful tribe from the wilderness,
+tall, fierce and hostile, and resistance to them was vain. They defeated
+and overwhelmed an army which was sent out against them, and put the
+whole country in fear. These giants were not only of great strength, but
+they were cannibals, devouring men, women and children in their inroads.
+
+[Illustration: Stonish giant chasing indians.]
+
+It is said by the Shawnees that these giants were descended from a
+certain family which was journeying on the east side of the Mississippi.
+After some of them had crossed the river on a vine it broke, which left
+the main body on the east bank of the river. Those who were on the west
+side of the river went toward the northwest. Being abandoned in their
+wanderings, and being vagrants, without any knowledge of the arts of
+life, they forgot the rules of humanity. They at first began to eat their
+game in the raw flesh, which led them finally to become cannibals, and
+they practiced to roll themselves in the sand, which caused their bodies
+to be covered with a hard skin, so that the arrows of the Tuscaroras only
+rattled against their rough bodies and fell at their feet. And the
+consequence was, that they were obliged to bide in caves and glens, and
+were brought into subjection by those fierce invaders for many winters.
+At length the Holder of the Heavens visited his people, and finding that
+they were in great distress, he determined to relieve them of these
+barbarous invaders. To accomplish this he changed himself as into one of
+those giants. As you will remember, it is said that he was able to change
+himself into any shape that he wished. He then joined himself with the
+invaders, and brandishing his heavy war club, led them on under the
+pretence of finding the other five nations, which they were also in the
+habit of visiting. When they came near to the strong fort at Onondaga,
+they being weary of the long journey, and the night being dark, their
+leader bade them lie down at the foot of a mountain until the customary
+time to make the attack, which was at the break of day. But during the
+night the Indian benefactor ascended the height and overwhelmed the
+slumberers below with a vast mass of rocks. At this catastrophe only one
+escaped to carry the news of their dreadful fate, and he fled toward the
+north.
+
+The Tuscaroras and the other five nations were so much troubled with
+giants and other monsters that they were obliged to build forts to
+protect themselves. The way they built them was always by selecting an
+eminence, or rocky cliff, and on the back part was dug a trench according
+to the plan of the fort. Then timbers were set in the trench upright,
+projecting above the ground several feet, and being adjusted together as
+close as possible, and the trench being filled in again. They had two
+gates, one way to get their water, the other for a sally port.
+
+They were also molested by a terrific animal which they called Ro-qua-ho
+--a variegated lizzard--a swift runner and strikes very violent blows with
+its tail, which destroyed many hunters while lying in lurk for them. One
+day while a party of hunters were on their journey to camp-out for the
+purpose of hunting, the party consisting of four, they came to a very
+large hollow tree where they noticed quite a number of great marks of
+claws on the bark of the tree. Supposing it to be the lodge of bears,
+they laid their bundles down and made ready for their game. One of them
+bounded on the tree and climbed it, and he struck the trunk of the tree
+several times. When the supposed bear appeared, to their consternation it
+was found to be the enemy they so much dreaded, the Ro-qua-ho. The person
+on the tree only stepped behind it and the other three ran away for their
+lives. The Ro-qua-ho came down and pursued them, and while yet in sight
+one was caught, killed and brought back, and he carried the body into the
+tree. Then he went after the second which was brought in a short time,
+after which, he went for the third; then the one on the tree came down
+and ran away also. While on his way he heard a voice calling him; he
+stopped, and behold, a man of stately form, with long flowing hair stood
+and said, "Why run? I have seen the distress of my people, I have come to
+deliver them out of trouble; now confide in me and we will prevail. I am
+your benefactor, Tarenyawagon. Get behind me, the enemy is approaching."
+
+In the twinkling of an eye this Celestial being was changed, and assumed
+himself into a great white bear. When the Roquaho came a great struggle
+ensued, but with the help of the man the enemy was killed.
+
+They were again molested by an extraordinary and ferocious animal in
+various places--a mammoth bear. One morning while a party of hunters were
+in their camp, they were alarmed by a great tumult breaking out from the
+forest. Upon going to ascertain the cause of this extraordinary noise,
+they saw the great monster on the bank pawing and rolling stones and logs
+in every direction, exhibiting the utmost rage. Another great animal of
+the cat kind appeared, and seized the bear and a dreadful fight ensued.
+In the end the bear got the worst of it and retired horribly mangled, and
+never was heard of afterwards.
+
+After a while a pestiferous and annoying creature of the insect kind
+appeared in the guise of the Ro-tay-yo (a huge mosquito). It first
+appeared among the Tuscaroras along the Neuse river. It flew about with
+vast wings, making a loud noise, with a long stinger; and on whomsoever
+it lighted it sucked out all the blood and killed them. Many warriors
+were destroyed in this way, and all attempts made to subdue it were vain;
+but at length it retired of itself. Next they heard that it appeared
+about the fort at Onondaga, where it also destroyed many lives, until
+Tarenyawagon made a visit to the ruler of the Onondagas. The great
+mosquito happened to come flying about the fort as usual at that time.
+Tarenyawago immediately made his attack, but such was the rapidity of its
+flight, that he could scarcely keep in sight of it. He chased it around
+the borders of the great lakes, towards the sun-setting, and around the
+great country at large, east and west. At last he overtook it, and took
+his strong bow and sent an arrow which struck him through the heart and
+killed him, near Gen-an-do-a (the salt lake of Onondaga). From the blood
+flowing out on this occasion were the present species of small mosquito
+originated.
+
+I have now related a few of the tragedies of the dark recesses of the
+forest, from the many that our tradition relates.
+
+There was also a little old man of singular appearance that frequented
+among them at their ball plays, and did not seem to be inclined to make
+acquaintance with any one, but kept by himself and appeared to be mild
+and humble. At length this man became very sick with putrefying sores
+from head to foot and was very loathesome. Nobody knew who he was or
+where he came from: he had no home; he gave his name as Qua-ra, or
+Rabbit: he went from house to house of all the different clans or tribes
+in the nation, as for instance, the Eel, Snipe, Beaver, Turtle, Wolf,
+Deer. When he would approach the house, seemingly to go in, they would
+loathe him to enter, and when he came to the doorstep he would seem to
+hear their thoughts and then return; thus he was repulsed from all the
+houses of the above clans, he finally came to the house of the Bear clan.
+When the mistress of the house observed him coming, she had pity on him,
+and presently prepared a bed for him with the best deerskins she had;
+when he came to the door he knew her hospitable heart and went in. She
+immediately assured him of his welcome in her meanly hut, and that she
+was ready to do everything in her power to relieve his distress, and
+appointed his lodge where he had laid himself nearly exhausted. He then
+told her to go and get the root of a certain kind of plant, which she
+immediately did and prepared according to his direction, which he took
+and readily recovered. He then went through a series of diseases,
+directing her as before to get the different kind of medicines for the
+different diseases. Lastly, he became sick with that fatal disease,
+consumption. This he said was incurable, and he must die. He then told
+her he was a messenger from Tarenyawagon, to show them the diseases that
+they should be subjected to, and also the medicine to cure them. And also
+to tell them the predictions of their fate and doom. Said he could not
+withhold the water from his eyes, or keep from quaking when he thought of
+their irrevocable doom to which they were destined, and said: "There is a
+habitation beyond these great waters towards the sun-rising, which are
+inhabited by beings of very pale faces, and are looking only to
+themselves, have pity for nobody, and make their delight in doing
+mischief. They have killed Rah-wah-ne-yo (God); they mocked him and done
+all manner of bad things to him, and finally, they fastened him to a tree
+until he died. But death and the grave had not power to hold him. He
+arose and lives again, and he has gone to the world above, in those happy
+hunting grounds where all good O-qua-ho-wa (Indians), will go when they
+die, and will see him as he is.
+
+"Now this class of pale-faces will come across the great waters and make
+their abode on this island, and will bring poison to give you to drink,
+which will poison the spirit and kill the body. They will kill your
+husbands, brothers and sons, and drive you away to the sun-setting, and
+will deprive the children that are coming behind, off their domain. They
+will drive you until you are in the great salt water up to your waist.
+Oh, hostess, this is the final doom of your great nation.
+
+"And now as for you, Oh, mother, I have no words that I can utter, to
+express the sincere gratitude of my inmost soul. I have nothing to give
+to compensate you for all the tenderness you have given me. But my
+blessings I will leave with you. I place in the midst of your clan, the
+Bear, a majestic pine tree, which is ever green, and as the top reaches
+above all other trees, so will your clan be. Wherever the nation will be
+driven to, your clan will multiply above all others, and be the ruler of
+the nation. This is all I have to deliver unto you. I now commend myself
+to that Great Spirit that has made us all, who ruleth above."
+
+Thus ended the last messenger of Tarenyawagon, who is now basking in the
+pleasures of that hunting ground in the world above.
+
+
+
+
+TUSCARORA.
+
+Before the discovery, by Columbus, the Tuscaroras consisted of six towns,
+and they were a powerful nation, numbering over twelve hundred warriors,
+which, at a ratio according to the rule of estimating, would bring them
+at about five or six thousand souls.
+
+The Tuscaroras had many years of enjoyment and peaceful possession of
+their domain, consisting of six towns on the Roanoke, Neuse, Taw and
+Pemlico rivers, in the State of North Carolina. And they were also
+confederated to six other nations, which were the Corees, Mattamuskeets,
+Notaways and the Bear River Indians; the names of the other two nations I
+have been unable to obtain. My readers will readily see why some writers
+have it that they consisted in twelve towns, and other writers would have
+it that they consisted in six towns. The real Tuscaroras consisted in six
+towns; but with the confederate nations, altogether, were known to be in
+twelve towns, and all these different nations which composed the
+confederacy went under the name of Tuscarora, the Tuscaroras being the
+most powerful of the several nations.
+
+The tradition of the Tuscaroras admits of having captured Lawson and his
+party, and executed some of them to death on account of their
+encroachments upon their domain; but concerning the massacre of Oct. 2d,
+1711, the Tuscaroras emphatically deny having taken any part in the
+affair whatever, officially. The project was presented to them and in the
+council of the sachems, chiefs and warriors, they emphatically declined
+taking any part in such a movement, but said if the colonists made
+encroachments and trespass on their domain, it is no more than right and
+just that we defend our rights, and even cautioned their young men that
+they should not take any part whatever in the action; but, nevertheless,
+there were a few of the rash and reckless warriors that took part in the
+disorder.
+
+The Corees, Mattamuskeets, and Bear River Indians seemed to be the
+instigators of the project: but there were several other nations that
+took part in the massacre. These three nations being considered
+Tuscaroras, on account of the confederacy, and the capture of Lawson and
+his party a little previous to this time by the Tuscaroras, led the
+colonists to conclude that it was the Tuscaroras who caused the disaster,
+and to them was directed the feud of the colonists.
+
+A little previous to these disorders, it seems that there were some white
+men, as our tradition states, with long coats and wide brimmed hats,
+visited several nations of the Indians in that neighborhood, and appeared
+to be very friendly toward them, wished them success in everything, and
+told them that those settlers who were on the borders of their lands and
+constantly encroaching and committing depredations upon the Indians, were
+not of the government, but were merely squatters, who settled there of
+their own accord, and if they were cut off, there would be none to avenge
+them, and were advised to do so.
+
+It has always been a question in my mind who those white men were, to
+give such rash advice. Were they Quakers? But what motive had they in
+advising, from which so great a disaster was the result? Or, were they
+men in disguise, from the county of Bath, in which the massacre was
+committed, to make the Indians believe that they were Quakers, as the two
+counties were in arms against each other at that time.
+
+To coroborate the tradition above, I would call your attention to part of
+a letter from President Pollock to Lord Craven, in the year 1712, who
+attributes the calamity thus:
+
+"Our divisions," says he, "chiefly occasioned by the Quakers and some
+other ill-disposed persons, have been the cause of all the troubles, for
+the Indians were informed by some of the traders that the people who
+lived here are only a few vagabonds, who had run away from other
+governments and settled here of their own accord, without any authority,
+so that if they were cut off, there would be none to revenge them. This
+with their seeing our differences rise to such a heighth, that consisting
+of two counties only, were in arms one against the other, encouraged them
+to fall upon the county of Bath, expecting it would have no assistance
+from this nor any other of the English plantations. This is the chief
+cause that moved the Indians to rise against us, as far as I understand."
+
+The Tuscaroras never had the inclination of cutting off the inhabitance
+of the pale faces. Nevertheless, they did not always remain idle or
+unconcerned spectators of the feuds and dissensions that so long
+prevailed among the white people, toward the red men. The successive and
+regular encroachments, on their hunting grounds and plantations, which
+the increase of the European population occasioned, had not always been
+submitted to without murmur.
+
+Although they were pleased with the neighbors, from whom they had trade
+for their furs, and could procure spirituous liquors and other articles,
+which tended to the gratification of their real or imaginary wants. And
+they were required to surrender larger and larger portions of their
+domain, and at last, the removal of families from the neighborhood of
+their long cherished memories of the graves of their ancestors, to the
+more distant and less valuable tracts of land. Other causes of animosity
+and ill-will were not wanting. Their hunters were shot down like so many
+beasts, at the edge of the settlement, killed in their wigwams, their
+young females' chastity violated, and many other things might be related,
+which their tradition shows. But I have neither heart nor inclination to
+bring to a resurrection the long gone-by memories of our forefathers. I
+would that all were cast into oblivion, where might not be found neither
+trace nor track; but rather that the chain of friendship which has
+existed for more than a century between the Tuscaroras and the United
+States Government may be made brighter and brighter as time rolls on.
+
+I have said that the Tuscaroras never had the inclination of cutting off
+the first colonies, and if that were their desire, how readily would they
+have excepted the advice of President Thomas Carey, through one of his
+counsel--Edward Porter--in the year 1710, of which you will find in
+Martin's History of North Carolina a difficulty between Gov. Hyde and the
+above, to-wit: "Before any relief could be sent he attempted the landing
+of some of his men under fire of his brig, but they were repulsed by the
+militia of the neighborhood, which Gov. Hyde had time to collect. They
+returned on board, and their Chief sought a safe retreat in the swamps of
+the Tar river, where he raised his standard and endeavored to bring the
+Tuscarora Indians into an alliance. For this purpose he dispatched to
+them Edward Porter, one of his counsel, who endeavored by promises of
+great rewards to induce them to cut off all the inhabitants of that part
+of the province who adhered to Gov. Hyde. This was acceded to by some of
+his young warriors, but when the matter was debated in council the old
+men dissuaded them from listening to Porter."
+
+Now, did not some of Carey's men go afterwards to some of the neighboring
+Indian nations and induced them, in the year 1710, to commit the
+massacre?
+
+I suppose to the critical reader, and to the people generally, my writing
+will appear to them fictitious, because of their first impression, which
+has been taught them by many historians. Historians generally have given
+only one side of the story, and have avoided, as much as possible, to
+give the history of the wrongs done to the Tuscaroras, but they are very
+scrupulous to preserve the history of the capture of Lawson, his
+execution and of the massacre, which they allege to have been committed
+by the Tuscaroras, and are styled by many as being inimical, haughty,
+jealous, warlike bloodhounds, bloodthirsty and scarcely to be human.
+These are the first impressions made by the historians upon the mind of
+the world. I suppose, for the purpose of getting a general verdict, that
+it was right; that they were crushed as a nation, their domain snatched
+from them, driven into the cold world, and not a word has been written by
+historians, or the Tuscaroras themselves, to vindicate their cause.
+
+But with all the great tide of prejudiced feelings towards the
+Tuscaroras, I have ventured to write their history as I have received it,
+and think it to be true.
+
+After the massacre, and the Tuscaroras heard it reported that they were
+charged with being the author of the disaster, they immediately sent
+messengers and denied the charge of having officially taken any part in
+the disorder, but acknowledged that a few of the reckless and lawless
+warriors did take part against their admonitions, but they were willing
+to make all the restoration that was in their power to do, and would
+fight for them if necessary. At different times they petitioned,
+remonstrated and supplicated for peace, which was slighted and
+disregarded, and only produced more violence and insult.
+
+Notice what Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, said concerning the
+Tuscaroras, to wit:
+
+"On the first of the disaster I sent a detachment of the militia to the
+tributary Indians of this province to prevent them from joining in the
+war, and understanding that the Indians in some of the Tuscarora towns
+had refused to march against the whites, sent a messenger to invite them,
+with the rest of the friendly tribes, to a conference at the Nottoway
+line, on the southern border of Virginia, where he met them on the 7th of
+November."
+
+"The Governor, after entering into some conversation with the Chiefs, had
+the pleasure of finding the report which his messengers had made, from
+their observations while in the Tuscarora towns, that they were very
+desirous of continuing in peace, and were greatly concerned that any of
+their nation should have joined in the massacre."
+
+The Chiefs, after accounting for the delay that occurred, expressed the
+desire of the Indians of their towns to continue in strict friendship
+with the whites, and assist them in chastising the authors of the late
+disorder.
+
+"But now an unfortunate difference arose between the Governor and the
+burgesses, the latter insisting on the passage of a bill for raising an
+army in Virginia, without trusting to the sincerity of the profession of
+the Tuscarora Chiefs. The Governor refusing to accede to this
+proposition, and declining to co-operate in their plans, the dispute
+ended by a dissolution of the assembly."
+
+There was at one time a treaty of peace concluded between the Sachems and
+Chiefs of the Tuscaroras and Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, and one of
+the conditions of the treaty was to help in chastising the authors of the
+late massacre. In conformity with this pledge the Tuscaroras made an
+attack on the Mattamuskeets, where they obtained thirty scalps and
+presented them to the authorities of the whites, of which they pretended
+to be pleased. I don't doubt but that they were really pleased, but not
+with any good feelings towards the Tuscaroras. I suppose the object was
+to get all the other Indian nations alienated from them, so that in due
+time they might be easily conquered, because they were the nation that
+the whites seemed bent on destroying. The Tuscaroras had faith in the
+treaty, but only to disappoint them in the thought of having the dark
+cloud which hung so glowingly over them taken away. It is said by
+historians that the Tuscaroras disregarded the treaty and began
+hostilities. But I will relate a tradition, handed down from generation
+to generation, which is as follows, to wit:
+
+Some little time after the treaty concluded, several white men went into
+one of their towns and said that they were sent by the government to
+distribute among them an annuity of goods in token of friendship; and
+also said, "In token of your sincerity to the treaty of peace, you will
+all repair to a place where there is a cord stretched out in a straight
+line, you must all take hold of the line with your right hand, and all
+those that refuse to take hold will be considered as hostile and will be
+omitted in the distribution of the goods." They all went to the place
+designated and found the cord strung out for nearly a mile; at one end of
+it was a bundle covered with cloth, which, as they supposed, contained
+the goods; so the unsuspecting Indians, women and children, with eager
+hearts, laid hold on the rope. When it was thought that they were in a
+proper position, the white men all at once uncovered the supposed goods,
+which was a large cannon, and being prepared to shoot in a line with the
+cord it was at once fired and roared like thunder. In a moment the ground
+along the cord was strewn with the meats of the Tuscaroras. This is one
+of the effects of the treaty at that time.
+
+I will copy a report of Governor Spotswood to the Lords Commissioners of
+Trade, in the year 1711, to-wit:
+
+"Had they," said he, "really intended to carry on the war against the
+Indians, they could not have done it in a more frugal way than by the
+treaty I concluded with the Tuscarora chiefs.
+
+"Indeed, some of that house, since the dissolution, own more freely than
+they would do while sitting, that most of the irregularities of their
+proceedings are owing to some rash votes, passed without foresight, which
+they could not afterwards get over without breaking the rules of their
+house; and so they chose, rather, to let the country suffer than to own
+themselves in an error.
+
+"Some of the Tuscarora chiefs have lately been with Governor Spotswood,
+of Virginia, and pretend a great inclination to peace.
+
+"They are again to be with him on the 26th of this month; we are to send
+two agents to meet them there--Mr. Tobias Knight and Mayor Christophe
+Gale--not with any expectation that the Governor will make any treaty for
+us, for that would be dishonorable to your lordship and make us appear
+contemptible in the eyes of the Indians, but with a view to hear what
+they have to propose."
+
+I might quote many more passages similar to those above, but let these
+few suffice to show how the Tuscaroras were treated. Now, finally, with a
+combination of causes, they were in 1713, crushed and broken down as a
+nation, to satisfy the inclinations of the white people, persecutions
+being kept up by neighboring whites and southern Indians until June
+following. The Oneida Indians, having heard of the disaster to the
+Tuscarora Nation, invited them to come and make their dwelling among
+them: so, accordingly, they left Carolina and took their journey north to
+rejoin their sister nations.
+
+Methink I can see them leaving their once cherished homes--the aged, the
+helpless, the women and children, and the warriors faint and few--the
+ashes are cold on their native hearth; the smoke no more curls round
+their lowly cabin: they move on with slow, unsteady steps; they turn to
+take a last look upon their doomed village and cast a last glance upon
+the long cherished memories of their fathers' graves. They shed no tears;
+they utter no cries: they heave no groans, they linger but a moment. They
+know and feel that there is for them still one more remove further, not
+distant nor unseen.
+
+One bright, sunny June morning, in the year 1813, was one of the darkest
+days that the Tuscaroras ever witnessed, when most of the nation took
+their pace to the north until they came within the bounds of the Oneida
+domain, about two miles west of Tamaqua, in the state of Pennsylvania,
+where they located and set out apple trees which can be seen to this day:
+some of the trees, will measure about two feet in diameter. Here they
+dwelled for about two years.
+
+In about the year 1815, the Iroquois, being the Mohawk, Onondaga, Seneca,
+Oneida and Cayuga nations, which were then called the five nations, had a
+general council where the Tuscarora made an application through their
+brothers the Oneida, to be admitted into the Iroquois and become the
+sixth nation, on the grounds of a common generic origin, which was
+granted them unanimously. Then the Seneca adopted the Tuscarora as their
+children. Ever since that time to the present, if a Seneca addresses the
+Tuscaroras, he will invariably salute them as "my sons," in social or in
+council; and also the Tuscaroras in return will say "my fathers." The
+relation has always been kept up to the present.
+
+The Tuscaroras were then initiated without enlarging the frame-work of
+the confederacy and formation of the League, by allowing them their own
+Sachems and Chiefs, which they had as hereditary from their nation in the
+south, except on which they gave, as the Holder of the Tree, to sit and
+enjoy a nominal equality in the councils of the League, by the courtesy
+of the other five nations. They were not dependent, but were admitted to
+as full an equality as could be granted them without enlarging the frame-
+work of the confederacy. In the councils of the League they had no
+national designation. They were then assigned a portion of the Oneidas'
+territory, which is lying upon the Unadilla river on the east, the
+Chenango on the west, and the Susquehanna on the south, where they
+dwelled and enjoyed their peace again for about seventy years. In 1736
+they numbered 200 warriors of fighting men.
+
+We again hear of the Tuscarora by history, concerning a massacre of the
+German Flats, N. Y., in November, 1757.
+
+A narrative communicated to the author of the Documentary History of New
+York, vol. 2, page 520, viz: A few days after this massacre and
+desolation had been perpetrated, Sir William Johnson dispatched Geo.
+Croghan, Esq., Deputy Agent, with Mr. Montour, the Indian interpreter, to
+the German Flats, where he understood several of the Oneida and Tuscarora
+Indians were assembled, in order to call upon them to explain why they
+had not given more timely notice to the Germans of the designs and
+approach of the enemy, it having been reported that no intelligence had
+been given by the Indians until the same morning the attack was made, and
+as these Indians might naturally be supposed, from their situation and
+other circumstances, to have had an earlier knowledge of the enemy's
+design and march.
+
+Before Mr. Croghan could get up to the German Flats the aforesaid Indians
+were on their road homewards, but he was informed that the Chief Sachem
+of the Upper Oneida town, with a Tuscarora Sachem (which is supposed to
+be Solomon Longboard) and another Oneida Indian, were still about four
+miles from Fort Harkeman, upon which he sent a messenger to acquaint them
+that he was at the said fort.
+
+The aforesaid Indians returned, and on the 3oth of November, at Fort
+Harkeman, Conaghquieson, the Oneida Sachem, made the following speech to
+Mr. Croghan, having first called in one Rudolph Shumaker, Hanjost Harkman
+and several other Germans who understood the Indian language, and desired
+them to sit down and hear what he had to say. Conaghquieson then
+proceeded and said:
+
+"Brothers:--I can't help telling you that we were very much surprised to
+hear that our English brethren suspect and charge us with not giving them
+timely notice of the designs of the French, as it is well known we have
+not neglected to give them every piece of intelligence that came to our
+knowledge.
+
+"Brothers, about fifteen days before the affair happened we sent the
+Germans word that some Swegatchi Indians told us that the French were
+determined to destroy the German Flats, and desired them to be on their
+guard. About six days after that we had a further account from the
+Swegatchi Indians that the French were preparing to march.
+
+"I then came to the German Flats, and in a meeting with the Germans told
+them what we had heard, and desired to collect themselves together in a
+body at their fort, [Footnote: A stockaded work round the church, and a
+block-house, with a ditch, and a parapet thrown up by Sir William
+Johnson, a year ago, upon an alarm then given.] and secure their women,
+children and effects, and to make the best defence they could. At the
+same time I told them to write what I had said to our brother,
+Warraghryagey (meaning Sir William Johnson [Footnote: They never sent
+this intelligence to Sir William Johnson.]), but they paid not the least
+regard to what I told them, and laughed at me, slapping their hands on
+their buttocks, saying they did not value the enemy, upon which I
+returned home and sent one of our people to the lake (meaning Oneida
+Lake) to find out whether the enemy were coming or not. After he had
+staid there two days the enemy arrived at the carrying-place, and sent
+word to the castle at the lake that they were there, and told them what
+they were going to do, but charged them not to let us at the upper castle
+know anything of their design. As soon as the man I sent there heard this
+he came on to us with the account that night; and as soon as we received
+it we sent a belt of wampum, to confirm the truth thereof, to the Flats,
+which came here the day before the enemy made their attack: but the
+people would not give credit to the account even then, or they might have
+saved their lives. [Footnote: The Indians who brought the belt of wampum,
+finding the Germans still incredulous, the next morning, just before the
+attack began, laid hold on the German Minister, and in a manner forced
+him over to the other side of the river, by which means he and some who
+followed him escaped the fate of their brethren.] This is the truth, and
+those Germans here present know it to be so. The aforesaid Germans did
+acknowledge it to be so, and that they had such intelligence.
+
+"GEORGE CROGHAN."
+
+The Oneida being the original owner of the tract of land assigned to the
+Tuscarora as aforesaid, were made party with the Tuscarora to the treaty
+made at Fort Herkimer in the year 1785, by which it was ceded to the
+State, and the Oneida took all the avails of the treaty. The Tuscaroras
+were then again left without a home and were partially scattered among
+the other nations, although they continued to preserve their nationality.
+They had some settlements, at a later period, in Oneida Castle, called by
+them Gaunea-wahro-hare (signifying head on the pole), and one in the
+valley of the Genesee below Avon, called by them Ju-na-stre-yo
+(signifying the beautiful valley); another settlement at Con-na-so-ra-ga,
+on the line between Onondaga and Oneida; another in the fork of
+Chattenango Creek, which they called Ju-ta-nea-ga (signifying where the
+sun shines); and another on the Jordan Creek, which they called Kan-ha-to
+(signifying limb in water). These several places were settled at
+different periods, which I am not able to give.
+
+In the revolutionary war between the United States and Great Britain, the
+Tuscaroras then had their settlement at the place alotted them by the
+league in 1715, between the Unadilla river and the Chenango. They took an
+active part with the United States. Many a soldier and scout of the
+United States, in their fatigue and hunger, found a rest and a morsel in
+the rude homes of the Tuscaroras, which were ever hospitably open to
+them.
+
+When the other Indians which took part with the British knew that the
+Tuscaroras took part with the United States, they invaded their
+settlement, destroyed their property and burned down their houses to
+ashes, which scattered them for a while. There was a party that settled
+at Oyouwayea, or Johnson's landing place, on lake Ontario, about four
+miles east of the mouth of Niagara River, which is at the mouth of the
+four-mile creek, for the purpose of getting out of the centre of the
+other Indians which were for the British.
+
+About the close of the war there were two families of the Tuscaroras
+hunting and fishing along the shores of lake Ontario, and then up the
+east shore of Niagara River as far as Lewiston, and there left their
+canoe; then traveled east and up the mountain as far as a place which
+they now call the Old Saw Mill (now on the Tuscarora Reservation), above
+the Ayers' farm, where they saw great quantities of butternuts and
+walnuts and and a nice stream of water flowing down the mountain; there
+they took their rest, and after remaining several days they concluded to
+make their winter quarters at that place, which they did. After they were
+missing for a time from the settlement at Johnson's landing, they were
+hunted by their people and finally found at this place. A few years after
+this the Oneidas and Tuscaroras ceded the tract of land that was
+apportioned to the Tuscaroras; then families after families came and
+located with those two families mentioned above. This is the beginning of
+the settlement of the present Tuscarora Reservation.
+
+The Tuscaroras, ever since the revolutionary war, have had their
+residence within the territory of the Seneca nation, they being
+considered the father of the Tuscarora by being adopted as such, at the
+time of their initiation into the confederacy, in the year 1715.
+
+I will here give the boundary of the Seneca Nation domain, according to
+the treaty entitled "A Treaty between the United States of America and
+the Tribes of Indians called the Six Nations":
+
+"The President of the United States having determined to hold a
+conference with the Six Nations of Indians, for the purpose of removing
+from their minds all causes of complaint, and establishing a firm and
+permanent friendship with them, and Timothy Pickering being appointed
+sole agent for that purpose, and the agent having met and conferred with
+the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the Six Nations, in a general
+council, now, in order to accomplish the good design of the conference,
+the parties have agreed on the following articles, when ratified by the
+President, with the advice and consent of the Senate of the United
+States, shall be binding on them and the Six Nations.
+
+"Article 1. Peace and friendship are hereby firmly established, and shall
+be perpetual between the United States and the Six Nations.
+
+"Article 2. The United States acknowledge the lands reserved to the
+Oneida, Onondaga, and Cayuga Nations, in their respective treaties with
+the State of New York, and called their reservations, to be their
+property; and the United States will never claim the same, nor disturb
+them or either of the Six Nations, nor their Indian friends residing
+thereon and united with them, in the free use and enjoyment thereof; but
+the said reservations shall remain theirs until they choose to sell the
+same to the people of the United States, who have the right to purchase.
+
+"Article 3. The land of the Seneca Nation is bounded as follows:
+Beginning on Lake Ontario at the northwest corner of the land they sold
+to Oliver Phelps, the line runs westerly along the lake as far as O-yong-
+wong-yeh creek, at Johnson's landing place, about four miles eastward
+from the fort of Niagara; then southerly up that creek to its main fork;
+then straight to the main fork of Stedman's creek, which empties into the
+Niagara river above fort Schlosser; and then onward from that fort,
+continuing the same straight course, to the river (this line from the
+mouth of O-yong-wong-yeh creek to the river Niagara above Fort Schlosser,
+being the eastern boundary of a strip of land extending from the same
+line to Niagara river, which the Seneca Nation ceded to the king of Great
+Britain at a treaty held about thirty years ago, with Sir William
+Johnson); then the line runs along the river Niagara to Lake Erie; then
+along Lake Erie to the eastern corner of a triangle piece of land which
+the United States ceded to the state of Pennsylvania, as by the
+President's patent, dated the third day of March 1792; then due south to
+the boundary of that state; then due east to the southwest corner of the
+land sold by the Seneca Nation to Oliver Phelps; and then northerly along
+Phelps' line to the place of beginning, on Lake Ontario. Now, the United
+States acknowledge all the land within the aforementioned boundary to be
+the property of the Seneca Nation; and the United States will never claim
+the same, nor disturb the Seneca Nation, nor their Indian friends
+residing thereon and united with them, in the free use and enjoyment
+thereof; but it shall remain theirs until they choose to sell the same to
+the people of the United States, who have the right to purchase.
+
+"Article 4. The United States having thus described and acknowledged what
+lands belong to the Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas and Senecas, and engaged
+never to claim the same, nor disturb them or any of the Six Nations, nor
+their Indian friends residing thereon and united with them, in the free
+use and enjoyment thereof, etc. Proclaimed January 21, 1785."
+
+You will observe in the treaty above that the name of the Tuscarora
+Nation is not mentioned at all, and yet speaks of the Six Nations, which
+includes the Tuscarora Nation. The reason is this: In Article 2 you will
+observe that all the nations that have their lands on the east side of
+what is known as the Phelps line were named, and west of that line was
+the land of the Seneca Nation on which the Tuscaroras resided, and were
+considered as being merged into the Seneca Nation, and have the benefit
+of the laws enacted for them.
+
+There was also a contract entered into between the Seneca Nation of
+Indians of the first part, and Robert Morris. Esq., of the city of
+Philadelphia, of the second part. At a treaty held under the authority of
+the United States, at Genesee, in the county of Ontario, State of New
+York, on the fifteenth day of September, 1797, and on sundry days
+immediately prior thereto, by the Honorable Jeremiah Wadsworth. Esq., a
+commissioner appointed by the President of the United States to hold the
+same, when the Senecas ceded the country that included the now Tuscarora
+Reservation. The Tuscaroras then and there made their complaint by their
+chiefs, for the first since they were initiated into the confederacy of
+the Iroquois; in the presence of the commissioner and the others that are
+parties to the treaty; that the Iroquois had from time to time allotted
+them lands and had been ceded each time by the Iroquois, without giving
+them a farthing to remunerate them for their portion of the lands so
+ceded, or for the improvements that they had made, and asked if they were
+to be driven in this manner from place to place all the days of their
+existence, and if that is the way a father should use their children or
+brothers should use their brothers, and to keep them living in
+disappointment; they also alluded to a treaty concluded at Fort Stanwix
+three years before this, where the commissioners of the United States
+reserved to them land, which read as follows:
+
+"Article 2. The Oneida and Tuscarora Nations shall be secured in the
+possession of the lands on which they are settled."
+
+The commissioner then inquired into the merits of the complaint of the
+Tuscaroras, which the Iroquois affirmed; the commissioner then said to
+them, that it is not right to make a contract, or to grant anything
+without faith; it is only honorable when you adhere to your stipulation.
+
+When Robert Morris knew that the Tuscaroras were destitute of land, he
+reserved and donated to them two square miles being 1280 acres; the
+Senecas also granted to them one square mile being 640 acres, which grant
+was made at the convention dated above. On the 13th day of March, 1808,
+the sachems, chiefs and head men of the Seneca Nation of Indians executed
+a written indenture of the grant or deed to the Tuscarora Nation, of the
+one square mile of land above mentioned, and was duly signed by the
+sachems, chiefs and head men of the aforesaid Indians. On the 22d day of
+September, 1810, it was entered and put on file in the Niagara County
+Clerk's office, on page 56; and was again put on file in the Niagara
+County Clerk's Office, Lockport, in book of deeds 151, page 168, March
+13, 1879.
+
+About the year 1800, Solomon Longbard and his brother held private
+council between themselves, consulting how they might obtain more land to
+make a permanent home for the Tuscaroras and their generation after them,
+they concluded to repair to North Carolina and see if they could procure
+any means from that source, whereby they might obtain more land. In
+pursuance, the Tuscarora Chiefs in council appointed as delegates Solomon
+Longboard and Sacarrissa, being sachems of the nation in the year 1801,
+and in 1802 they effected a lease by the aid of the Legislature of North
+Carolina, from which accrued $13,722; and in the year 1804, General
+Dearborn, then Secretary of War, was authorized by Congress to buy land
+for the Tuscaroras with the said money, by which he bought 4,329 acres of
+the Holland Land Company, which is now on the south and east side of the
+three square miles mentioned above, which now constitutes the Tuscarora
+Reservation.
+
+The Tuscarora Nation was once more at peace and in possession of lands
+which they could call their own.
+
+
+
+
+Tuscaroras at North Carolina.
+
+In tracing the history of the Tuscaroras that migrated to the north and
+joined themselves with the Iroquois, we would not forget those few who
+remained with King James Blunt, a Tuscarora Chief, in North Carolina, who
+had a tract of land allotted to them on Pamplico river. The smallness of
+their number disabling them from resisting the attacks of the southern
+Indians, Governor Charles Eden, of North Carolina, and the council, on
+the 5th day of June, 1718, entered into a treaty, by which the land on
+Pamplico river was abandoned by the Tuscaroras and another tract granted
+to them, on Roanoke river, in the present county of Birtie, in
+consideration of which they relinquished all claims of any other land in
+the province, butted and bounded as follows, viz.: Beginning at the mouth
+of Quitsnoy swamp, running up the said swamp four hundred and 35 poles,
+to a scrubby oak near the head of the swamp, by a great spring; then
+north ten degrees east, eight hundred and fifty poles, to a persimmon
+tree on Raquis swamp; then along the swamp and Pacosin main course north
+fifty-seven degrees west, two thousand six hundred and forty poles, to a
+hickory tree on the east side of the Falling Run, or Deep creek, and down
+the various courses of the said run to Morattock; then down the river to
+the first station.
+
+In the administration of the Governor, Gabriel Johnson, Esq., at a
+General Assembly held at New Bern on the 15th day of October, 1748, by
+virtue of an act, this same limit of land above was confirmed and assured
+to James Blunt, Chief of the Tuscarora Nation, and the people under his
+charge, their heirs and successors forever, any law, usage, custom or
+grant to the contrary notwithstanding.
+
+At the time the Tuscaroras migrated to the north, King James Blunt was
+the Sachem of those that remained, and his successor in office, as we see
+in an act of the General Assembly of North Carolina, in the year 1778,
+was Whitmell Tuffdick. The last Sachem, or Chief, of that part of the
+Tuscaroras--Samuel Smith--expired in the year 1802, at which time
+Sacarrissa and Solomon Longboard, both being Sachems of the northern
+Tuscaroras, migrated the residue of the Tuscaroras from North Carolina to
+their Reservation in Niagara county, State of New York, where they were
+again blended together in one nation.
+
+Concerning the land allotted to the Tuscaroras in Birtie--they have
+leased it several times; and I have selected a few of the laws of North
+Carolina that are now in force, concerning the Tuscaroras in that state,
+namely:
+
+"A. D. 1748. Vol. I. Chapter 43, page 174; by Potter, Taylor and Yancy,
+Esqs. Anno Regni Georgii II, Vicessinio second.
+
+"Gabriel Johnson, Esq., Governor.
+
+"At a general assembly held at New Bern, the fifteenth day of October, in
+the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and forty-eight."
+
+CHAPTER 43.
+
+"An Act for ascertaining the bounds of a certain tract of land formerly
+laid out by treaty to the use of the Tuscarora Indians, so long as they,
+or any of them, shall occupy and live upon the same, and to prevent any
+person or persons taking up lands, or settling within the said bounds, by
+pretense of any purchase or purchases made, or that shall be made, from
+the said Indians.
+
+"1. Whereas, complaints are made by the Tuscarora Indians, of divers
+encroachments made by the English on their lands, and it being but just
+that the ancient inhabitants of this Province shall have and enjoy a
+quiet and convenient dwelling place in this their native country,
+wherefore,
+
+"_Bounds of the Indians' lands confirmed_.--2. We pray that it may
+be enacted, and be it enacted by His Excellency Gabriel Johnson, Esquire,
+Governor, by and with the advice and consent of his majesty's council,
+and general assembly of this province, and it is hereby enacted by the
+authority of the same that the lands formerly allotted the Tuscarora
+Indians by solemn treaty, lying on Morattock river, in Birtie county,
+being the same whereon they now dwell. Butted and bounded as follows,
+viz: Beginning at the mouth of Quitsnoy Swamp, running up the said swamp
+four hundred and thirty-five poles, to a scrubby oak, near the head of
+the swamp, by a great spring; thence north ten degrees east, eight
+hundred and fifty poles, to a persimmon tree, on Raquis swamp; thence
+along the swamp, and Pacosin main course, north fifty-seven degrees west,
+two thousand six hundred and forty poles to a hickory on the east side of
+the falling run or deep creek, and down the various courses of the said
+run to Morattock river, then down the river to the first station; shall
+be confirmed and assured; and by virtue of this act, is confirmed and
+assured, to James Blunt, chief of the Tuscarora Nation, and the people
+under his charge, their heirs and successors, forever, any law, usage,
+custom, or grant, to the contrary, notwithstanding.
+
+"_Persons having grants to enter on desertion of the Indians_.--3.
+Provided, always, That it shall and may be lawful for any person or
+persons that have formerly obtained any grant or grants, under the Lord's
+proprietors, for any tract or parcels of lands within the aforesaid
+boundaries, upon the said Indians deserting or leaving the said lands, to
+enter, occupy and enjoy the same according to the tenor of their several
+grants.
+
+"_Indians not to pay quitrents_.--4. And be it further enacted by
+the authority aforesaid, That it shall not nor may be lawful for the Lord
+Granville's receiver to ask, have or demand any quitrents for any of the
+said tracts or parcels of land taken up within the said Indian
+boundaries, as aforesaid, until such time when the Indians have deserted
+the same and the patentee be in possession thereof, and only for such
+rents as shall from thence arise and become due, any law, usage or custom
+to the contrary notwithstanding.
+
+"_Penalty on persons purchasing lands of the Indians_.--5. And be it
+further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That no person, for any
+consideration whatsoever, shall purchase or buy any tract or parcel of
+land claimed or in possession of any Indian or Indians, but all such
+bargains and sales shall be, and are hereby declared to be null and void,
+and of no effect; and the person so purchasing or buying any land of any
+Indian or Indians shall further forfeit the sum of ten pounds,
+proclamation money, for every hundred acres by him purchased and bought,
+one-half to the use of the public, the other half to him or them that
+shall sue for the same, to be recovered by action of debt, bill, plaint
+or information, in any court of record within this Government, wherein no
+possession, protection, injunction or wager of law shall be allowed or
+admitted of.
+
+"_Persons settled on the Indian lands to remove, and no others to
+settle there under a penalty_.--6. And be it further enacted by the
+authority aforesaid, That all and every person and persons, other than
+the said Indians who are now dwelling on any of the lands within the
+bounds above mentioned to have been allotted, laid out and prescribed to
+the said Tuscarora Indians, shall, on or before the twenty-fifth day of
+March next ensuing the ratification of this act, remove him or herself
+and family off the said lands, under the penalty of twenty pounds,
+proclamation money; and if any shall neglect or refuse to move him or
+herself and family off the said lands, on or before the said twenty-fifth
+day of March next, and if any person or persons, other than the said
+Indians, shall hereafter presume to settle, inhabit or occupy any of the
+said lands hereby allotted and assigned for the said Tuscarora Indians,
+such person or persons shall forfeit the further penalty of twenty
+shillings, proclamation money, for each and every day he, she or they
+shall inhabit or occupy any lands within the said Indian bounds after the
+said twenty-fifth day of March next, the said penalties to be recovered
+and applied in the same manner as the penalty in this act above
+mentioned.
+
+"_Surveyor's fee for laying out the Indians' lands_.--7. And
+whereas, The said lands belonging to the said Tuscarora Indians have been
+lately laid out and newly marked by George Goulde, Esq., Surveyor
+General, at the request of the said Indians; therefore, be it enacted,
+that the said George Goulde, Esq., have and receive for the trouble and
+expense he hath been at in laying out and marking the Indians' lands
+aforesaid, the sum of twenty-five pounds, proclamation money, to be paid
+by the public, out of moneys in the public treasury.
+
+"_Penalty of persons ranging stock on the Indians' lands_.--8. And
+whereas, the Indians complain of injuries received from people driving
+stock, horses, cattle and hogs, to range on their lands, for remedy
+thereof, Be it enacted, That persons driving stock to range, or stock
+actually ranging on the Indians' lands, shall, and are hereby declared,
+to be liable and subject to the like penalties and forfeitures, and may
+be proceeded against in the same manner, and subject to the same
+recoveries, as by the law of this province stock driven or ranging upon
+any white people's land are liable and subject to; and the said Indians
+shall and may enjoy the benefit of the laws in that case made and
+provided, in the same manner as the white people do or can, any law,
+usage, or custom, to the contrary notwithstanding."
+
+LAWS OF NORTH CAROLINA. A. D. 1878, CHAPTER 136, PAGE 359, VOL. I. BY
+POTTER, TAYLOR & YANCEY.
+
+"An Act for quieting and securing the Tuscarora Indians, and others
+claiming under the Tuscaroras, in the possession of their lands.
+
+"_Indian lands secured to the Indians_.--1. Be it enacted, &c., That
+Whitmell Tuffdeck, Chief or head man of the Tuscarora nation, and the
+Tuscarora Indians now living in the county of Birtie, shall have, hold,
+occupy, possess and enjoy, all the lands lying in the county of Birtie
+aforesaid, whereof they are now seized and possessed, being part of the
+lands heretofore alotted to the Indians aforesaid by solemn treaty, and
+confirmed to them and their successors by act of assembly, in the year
+one thousand seven hundred and forty-eight, without let, molestation or
+hindrance, clear of all quit-rents, or any public demands by way of tax
+whatever, to them the said Tuscarora Indians, and their heirs and
+successors: and that they, the said Tuscaroras, and their heirs and
+successors, shall forever be clear and exempt from every kind of poll
+tax.
+
+"_No purchases to be made of the Indians, nor their lands
+cultivated_.--2. And whereas, the said Tuscarora Indians, by nature
+ignorant, and strongly addicted to drinking, may be easily imposed on by
+designing persons, and unwarily deprived of their said lands: Be it
+enacted. That no person, for any consideration whatever, shall hereafter
+purchase, buy or lease, any tract or parcel of land now claimed by, or in
+possession of the said Tuscarora Indians, or any of theirs; nor shall any
+person settle on or cultivate the said lands, or any part thereof, in his
+own right, or under pretence as acting as overseer for the Indians: and
+if any person shall hereafter purchase, buy or lease lands of the said
+Indians, or settle on or cultivate any part thereof in his own right or
+as overseer for the Indians, all such purchases, sales, leases or
+agreements shall be and they are hereby declared null and void; and the
+person so purchasing buying or leasing, settling on or cultivating such
+lands, or any part thereof, shall forfeit and pay the sum of three
+hundred pounds current money for every hundred acres by him so purchased,
+bought or leased, settled on or cultivated as aforesaid, one-half to the
+use of the Tuscarora Indians, the other to the use of him or her who
+shall sue for the same: to be recovered by action of debt, bill, plaint
+or information in any court having cognizance thereof. Provided that the
+said Tuscarora Indians may sell or dispose of their lands or any part
+thereof, with the consent of the general assembly first had and obtained.
+
+"_Former purchases from the Indians under the sanction of the Assembly,
+secured_.--3. And whereas, the chieftains and head men of the
+Tuscarora Indians living in the county, did, on the twelfth day of July,
+in the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty-six, for the
+consideration of fifteen hundred pounds to them paid by Robert Jones,
+Jun., William Williams and Thomas Pugh, by indenture under their hands
+and seals, demise, grant and to farm let, unto the said Robert Jones,
+William Williams and Thomas Pugh, a certain tract of land lying in the
+county aforesaid, containing about eight thousand acres, more or less,
+bounded as follows, to wit: Beginning at the mouth of Deep creek,
+otherwise called Falling Run; thence running up the said creek to the
+Indian head line: thence by the said line south seventeen degrees east,
+twelve hundred and eighty poles: thence on a course parallel with the
+general current of the said creek to the Roanoke river and then up the
+river to the beginning, together with the appurtenances thereto
+belonging, to be held and enjoyed by the said Robert Jones, William
+Williams and Thomas Pugh their executors, administrators and assigns in
+serveralty for and during the term of one hundred and fifty years as may
+more fully appear by the said indenture, registered in the count of
+Birtie aforesaid and ratified by act of Assembly, passed at Newbern, in
+the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty-six: Be it enacted, That
+each and every of the persons entitled to claims under the demise
+aforementioned, or by grants from the persons claiming under the same, or
+either of them, and their heirs and assigns, shall and may have, hold,
+occupy, possess and enjoy the several shares, dividends or parcels of the
+said land to them belonging, in as full, free and absolute manner, and
+with the same legal privileges and advantages in every respect, and
+subject to the same taxes as if the said land had been originally granted
+to the said Robert Jones, William Williams and Thomas Pugh by Lord
+Granville or by this State.
+
+"_Regulations in regard to former demises_.--4. And whereas, the
+said Tuscarora Indians, for good and sufficient reasons, and for valuable
+consideration, have, since the twelfth day of July, one thousand seven
+hundred and sixty-six, and previous to the first day of December last,
+demised, granted and to farm let sundry tracts or parcels of land lying
+in said county of Birtie to sundry persons, as by indentures duly
+executed may more fully appear: Be it enacted. That all the land
+contained in the last mentioned demises, if the said demises were fairly,
+_bona fide_ and without fraud, made by and obtained from the said
+Tuscarora Indians since the year one thousand seven hundred and sixty-
+six, and previous to the first day of December last past, shall not be
+deemed vacant lands, or be liable to be entered as such in the Land
+Office, unless the General Assembly shall hereafter so direct, but
+nevertheless shall be subject to the same taxes as other lands in this
+State are liable to.
+
+"_Method of trial for demises alleged to have been unfairly
+obtained_.--5. And whereas, it is suggested by the Tuscarora Indians,
+that unfair dealings have been used in obtaining one or more of the
+demises aforementioned, and that they, the said Indians have at present
+no mode of obtaining redress in such cases. Be it therefore enacted, that
+the commissioners herein mentioned or a majority of them, shall and may,
+upon complaint of the said Tuscarora Indians, in court or meeting
+assembled, that a person or persons has or have unfairly or fraudulently
+obtained any grant or demise for lands to them belonging since the year
+one thousand seven hundred and sixty-six, and previous to the first day
+of December last, summon the person or persons so complained against, or
+cause him or them to be summoned to appear before them on a certain day
+on the land in dispute (giving at best ten days' notice previous to the
+day in such summons appointed), then and there to answer the complaint of
+the Indians for having fraudulently or unfairly obtained a grant or
+demise of the land in question; and shall also summon, or cause to be
+summoned, a jury of twelve men, being freeholders in the county of Birtie
+and not resident on or owners of any lands purchased of the said
+Tuscarora Indians; and the said commissioners, or a majority of them,
+shall attend at the time and place appointed, with the jury aforesaid,
+and having first sworn the jury to try and determine fairly between the
+said Indians and the person or persons complained against, shall and may
+cause witnesses to be examined on both sides, receive the verdict of the
+jury and return the same, with the panel, to the next County Court of the
+said county of Birtie, to be entered upon the record; and such verdict
+shall be as good and effectual as if obtained in any court of record; and
+if the same be general the said commissioners, or a majority of them,
+shall and may appoint one or more persons to carry the same into
+execution; but if special, then the court shall decide thereon, and cause
+the Sheriff of the county to carry such decision into execution.
+
+"_Commissioners for Indian affairs_.--6. And whereas the said
+Indians are often injured by horses, cattle and hogs, driven on their
+lands by white people, the said horses, cattle and hogs breaking into the
+enclosure and distroying their corn and other effects, and are also
+frequently deprived of their property, and abuses by ill disposed
+persons; for remedy whereof, and also for recovery of suits or demands
+now due, or which may hereafter become due and owing to the said
+Tuscarora Indians; Be it enacted, that William Williams, Thomas Pugh,
+Willie Jones, Simon Turner and Zedekiah Stone, be, and they are hereby
+appointed commissioners for the said Indians, and they, or any three of
+them, shall and may inquire into the complaints made by the said Indians,
+summon the persons complained against, before them, and award such
+restitution and redress as to them shall seem just and necessary; and may
+appoint an Officer or Officers to serve subpoena as, and to execute such
+awards and determinations as they shall or may make in regard of the
+premises; and the court of said county of Birtie, is hereby authorized
+and required to fill up, from time to time, by new appointments any
+vacancies which may happen among the commissioners by death or
+resignations; and upon complaint of the chiefs or head men of the nation,
+and the rest of the Indians, in court or meeting properly assembled,
+against any of the commissioners for misbehavior, may inquire into the
+conduct of the person or persons complained against, remove him or them
+if necessary, and appoint another or others in his or their stead.
+
+"_Reversion of Indian lands_.--7. And be it further enacted, that
+the lands leased by the said Tuscarora Indians to Robert Jones, Jr.,
+William Williams and Thomas Pugh, and to other persons, shall revert and
+become the property of the State, at the expiration of the terms of the
+several leases mentioned, if the said nation be extinct; and the lands
+now belonging to, and possessed by the said Tuscaroras, shall revert to
+and become the property of the State, whenever the said nation shall
+become extinct, or shall entirely abandon or remove themselves off the
+said lands, and every part thereof. Provided, that no person shall have
+any preference of entry to any of the said lands by virtue of any lease
+or occupancy whatever, since December, one thousand seven hundred and
+seventy-six, whenever the general assembly shall declare the said lands
+to be vacant."
+
+Read three times and ratified in general assembly, the 2d day of May, A.
+D. 1778.
+
+Signed by
+WHITMILL HILL, S. S.
+THOMAS BENBURY, S. C.
+
+LAWS OF NORTH CAROLINA, A. D. 1780, CHAPTER 167. PAGE 406, VOL. I, BY
+POTTER, TAYLOR & YANCEY.
+
+"An Act to amend an act, entitled an act for quieting and securing the
+Tuscarora Indians, and others claiming under the Tuscaroras, in the
+possession of their lands.
+
+"1. Whereas, By the said act there is no penalty imposed on the jurors or
+witnesses duly summoned, and failing to attend.
+
+"_Attendance of Jurors_.--2. Be it enacted, &c., That the
+commissioners by the said act appointed, or any three of them, assembled
+for the purpose of holding a court, shall, and may inflict fines on
+jurors or witnesses so failing to attend, not exceeding one hundred
+pounds, at their discretion; and unless sufficient excuse be to them
+afterwards shown, cause the same to be levied and applied towards
+defraying the county expenses of Birtie; and witnesses and jurors who
+shall attend on the trial of any dispute between the said Tuscaroras and
+others, shall have and receive ten dollars per day for their attendance,
+to be paid by the party cost with all other cost: and such trials may
+hereafter be had on the part of the lands belonging to said Tuscaroras,
+Birtie County, which commissioners shall direct."
+
+Read three times and ratified in general assembly, the 10th day of May,
+A. D. 1780.
+
+Signed by
+ALEX. MARTIN, S. S.
+THOMAS BENBURY. S. C.
+
+       *       *       *       *      *
+
+LAWS OF NORTH CAROLINA, A. D. 1801, CHAPTER 608, PAGE 965, VOL. 2, BY
+POTTER, TAYLOR & YANCEY.
+
+"James Turner, Esq., Governor.
+
+"At the general assembly begun and held at Raleigh, on the fifteenth day
+of
+November, in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundred and two, and
+in the thirty-seventh year of the independence of said State.
+
+"An Act for the relief of the Tuscarora Nation of Indians.
+
+"Whereas, the Indians composing the Tuscarora nation, have, by their
+chief Sacarrissa, and others, regularly deputed and authorized, requested
+the concurrence of the general assembly of this State, to enable them to
+lease or demise, for a number of years, the residue of their lands
+situated in the county of Birtie, in such a manner that the whole of the
+said leases shall terminate at the same period.
+
+"_Chiefs authorized to lease their lands_.--1. Be it enacted, &c.,
+That the said chiefs Sacarrissa, Longboard and Samuel Smith, or a
+majority of them, be and they are hereby authorized to lease and to farm
+let the undemised residue of the lands allotted to the Tuscarora Nation
+in Birtie County, for a term of years that shall expire and end when the
+lease made by the Tuscarora Nation to Robert Jones and others, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty-six, shall end and
+expire; and also extend the term or terms of the leases already made or
+granted for a shorter term, to a term or terms which shall expire at the
+same time with the said lease made in the year one thousand seven hundred
+and sixty-six, in such parcels and on such rents and conditions as may be
+approved by the commissioners appointed in pursuance of this act and
+which may best promote the interest and convenience of the said Indian
+nation.
+
+"And, whereas, some difficulties have arisen respecting the receipt and
+payment on the rents of some of the present leases.
+
+"_To make alterations with respect to rents_.--2. Be it further
+enacted, That the said chiefs, or a majority of them, be, and they arc
+hereby authorised to make such alterations, by covenant and agreement,
+respecting the payment and receipt of any rents due, or that may become
+due on any of the existing leases, as the commissioners appointed in
+pursuance of this act, or a majority of them shall approve.
+
+"Whereas, the said Indian chiefs are ignorant of the usual forms of
+business, and may want advice and assistance in transacting the business
+respecting their lands, for remedy whereof and to prevent their being
+injured.
+
+"_Governor to appoint three commissioners to carry this act into
+effect_.--3. Be it further enacted, That the Governor shall appoint
+three commissioners for the purpose of carrying the provisions of this
+act into effect; and no lease, grant, demise, covenant or agreement made
+by the said Indian chiefs as aforesaid, respecting said lands, or the
+rents thereof, shall be good or valid in law, unless the same shall be
+approved by the said commissioners, or a majority of them, and such
+approbation shall be expressed in writing and annexed or endorsed on such
+lease, covenant or agreement, and registered in the Register's Office in
+the county of Birtie, together with said lease or agreement; and the said
+commissioners shall receive the sum of twenty shillings per day for their
+compensation and expenses, to be paid out of the monies received by the
+said chiefs on leasing said lands.
+
+"_Possessions of the tenants to be deemed the possessions of the
+Tuscarora Indians_.--4. And be it further enacted. That the occupancy
+and possession of the tenants under the said lease, heretofore confirmed
+by act or acts of the general assembly, and such leases as may be made
+under this act, shall be held and deemed in all cases whatsoever, the
+occupancy and possession of the said Tuscarora Nation, to all intents and
+purposes, as if said nation, or the Indians thereof, or any of them,
+actually resided on said lands.
+
+"Whereas, The said chiefs, Sacarrissa, Longboard, and Samuel Smith, being
+duly and freely authorized and empowered by the said Tuscarora Nation,
+have consented that the Indians' claim to the use, possession, and
+occupancy of said lands shall cease and be extinguished, when the said
+lease made in the year one thousand seven hundred seventy-six, to Robert
+Jones and others, shall expire.
+
+"_The land to revert to the state_.--5. Be it enacted, That from and
+after the twelfth day of July, which shall be in the year One Thousand
+nine and sixteen, the whole of the lands alloted to the said Tuscarora
+Indians, by act of General Assembly passed at Newbern, on the fifteenth
+day of October, in the year of our Lord One Thousand seven hundred and
+forty eight, shall revert to, and become the property of the state, and
+the claim thereto, from that time, be held, and deemed forever
+extinguished.
+
+"_If any of the lands be vacant it is not to be entered but by an
+express act_.--6. And be further enacted, After the said lands shall
+revert to the State, if the same or any part thereto, shall be vacant,
+the same shall not be liable to the entry or entries of any person or
+persons, without an express act of the legislation to that effect;
+Provided always, That it shall not be lawful for any person or persons to
+make any entry or entries on the said lands, after the passing of this
+act. Provided always, That nothing in this act contained shall be
+construed so as to effect the title of any individual; Provided
+nevertheless, That no lot or parcel of lands laid off under the direction
+of said commissioners, shall exceed two hundred acres; And Provided
+further, That no lease shall be made but by public auction, of which due
+notice shall be given in the Halifax and Edenton newspapers."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+ACTS OF ASSEMBLY FROM 1821 TO 1825, PAGE 13, CHAPTER 13, STATE LIBRARY.
+
+"An act concerning the lands held under leases from the Tuscarora tribe
+of Indians.
+
+"Whereas it is represented to this General Assembly, in behalf of persons
+holding lands under leases, for a long term of years from the Tuscarora
+tribe of Indians, that they are subject to great inconveniences from
+their estates being mere cattle interest: For remedy whereof,
+
+"Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of North Carolina,
+and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same.
+
+"That the estates in lands now held by certain individuals, under leases
+for a term of years from the Tuscarora tribe of Indians, made in
+pursuance of certain acts of the General Assembly of this State, shall be
+hereafter considered real estate; shall decend to, and be devided among
+the heirs of any intestate, subject to dower and tenancy by courtesy, and
+other incidents to real estate, and its liabilitiy to execution, and its
+conveyance and devise, shall be governed by the same rules as are now
+prescribed in the case of real estate held in fee simple; Provided that
+nothing herein contained, shall be so construed as to give to the
+individuals holding the said term of years, a right to enjoy the same for
+a longer period than is designated in the leases executed by the
+Tuscarora Indians, in pursurance of acts of the General Assembly of this
+state, nor as to give to said individuals any right which by the
+constitution of this state, is exclusively confirmed to the freeholders."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+LAWS OF NORTH CAROLINA FROM 1827 TO 1831, PAGE II, VOL. I, CHAPTER XIX,
+IN STATE LIBRARY. ACT OF NOV. 17TH, 1828.
+
+"An act concerning the lands formerly occupied by the Tuscarora tribe of
+Indians lying in Bertie County, on the north side of Roanoke river.
+
+"Whereas the Tuscarora Indians have for more than a century been the firm
+and undividing friends of the white people of this country, insomuch that
+the people of North Carolina not only render to them full and complete
+Justice, but also to exercise towards them that spirit of generosity
+which their conduct has merrited: Therefore,
+
+"I. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of North Carolina,
+and is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, that William R. Smith
+of Halifax, Simon J. Barker, of Martin and William Brittin of Bertie, be,
+and they are hereby appointed commissioners for the purpose of
+advertising and selling in manner hereinafter directed, the above named
+tract of land bounded as follows, to wit: beginning at the mouth of
+Quitsnoy swamp; running up the swamp 430 poles to a scrubby oak, near the
+head of said swamp by a great spring; thence north 10 degrees east 850
+poles, to a persimmon tree, on Raquis Swamp; thence along the swamp and
+Pocasin main course north 57 degrees west 2,640 poles, to a hickory on
+the east side of Falling Run on Deep Creek, and down the various courses
+of said Run to Roanoke River; then down the river to the first station.
+
+"II. And be it further enacted, That the title so to be sold by said
+commissioners shall be understood to extend only to the reversion of the
+State in said lands after the expiration of the lease from the Indians,
+under which they are now held, and after the ratification of this act,
+and notice thereof to the commissioners, it shall be their duty to
+proceed forthwith to advertise in the newspapers most convenient to the
+premises, and also in five of the most public places in the counties of
+Bertie, Halifax and Martin, including the court houses in said counties,
+that a sale of said lands, according to the provisions of this act, will
+take place on Tuesday of the ensuing March term of the Superior Court of
+Birtie county, that is, on the 17th day of March next; and it shall be
+the duty of the said commissioners to attend to the aforesaid time and
+place, and offer in the court house yard, at public sale to the highest
+bidder, the said lands, according to advertisement, subject however to
+the lease aforesaid, and the commissioners shall have power to continue
+or postpone the sale from day to day until the end of the week, and
+should they, by unavoidable accident or otherwise be prevented from
+selling all or any part of the lands during the same week, it shall be
+their duty to advertise in like manner, for two months next preceding the
+following September term of the Bertie court, and to sell at said term,
+as is heretofore directed, at the March term, and said commissioners
+shall be empowered to put up said lands in such parcels as they may deem
+most advantageous for selling, and that they shall give the purchasers a
+credit of twelve months on one-half the purchase money, and a credit of
+twelve months on the other half; Provided always, that the purchaser
+shall deliver to the commissioners bonds with good and sufficient
+security for the same, payable to the Governor of the State.
+
+"III. And be it further enacted, That should the commissioners upon
+offering said lands as aforesaid perceive that they were likely to be
+sacrificed, or to sell for an amount greatly below their value, it shall
+be their duty forthwith to discontinue the sale, and it shall be the duty
+of the commissioners after making sale, or if no sale be made,
+immediately after September next to make report to the public Treasurer
+of the State of all such proceedings that they may have had under this
+act and also to hand over to him all such bonds as they may have taken
+from purchasers; and it shall be the duty of the Secretary of State, upon
+a certificate from the Treasurer of payment of the purchase money and a
+certificate from the commissioners of the boundaries of the land so
+purchased, to grant a title of release from the State of North Carolina
+to such persons as may be reported purchasers by said commissioners under
+the act of Assembly.
+
+"IV. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the public
+Treasurer to collect the money on said lands when they shall become due
+and hold the same subject to the order of the Tuscarora tribe of Indians;
+and whenever such order shall be presented, properly and duly
+authenticated, by said tribe or nation of Indians, it shall be his duty
+to pay the same over accordingly; Provided always that upon paying such
+monies, the Public Treasurer shall take from said Indians or agents, a
+full and complete release of all such claim, pretence of title, as they
+now make or ever may have to the aforesaid tract of lands.
+
+"V. And be it further enacted, That the commissioners shall be allowed
+each the sum of three dollars for every day that they shall necessarily
+be employed in examining said lands, or in attending the sale of same, to
+be paid out of the funds arising from the sale.
+
+"VI. Be it further enacted, That if it should appear at any time
+thereafter that the said Indians have parted with their claims, or
+contracted for the same, so that in fact the benefit of the sale shall,
+agreeable to the provisions of this act, revert to the State."
+
+Governor John Owen, Esq., appointed as commissioners, William R. Smith,
+of Halifax; Simon J. Baker, of Martin; and William Brittain, of Birtie;
+to sell the Tuscarora lands in pursuance to the lease effected by the
+help of the General Assembly, Nov. 17, 1823, of which they reported to
+William Roberts, Public Treasurer--in bonds the sum of $2977.87, payable
+in installments of one and two years from the 17th day of March, 1829,
+which are on file in the Public Treasurer's Office. And on Nov. 21, 1831,
+William S. Mahon, the Public Treasarer, re-reported cash in bonds for
+sale of Tuscarora lands--
+
+Principle............................... $1400.27.
+Interest................................    30.74.
+Total................................... $1431.01.
+
+Another report of the same man January, 1832, that all has been
+collected, and remains in the treasury, subject to the order of the
+Indians. $3,220.71-1/4.
+
+Paid on May 3ist, 1831, and found on file.
+
+"For this amount paid Bates Cooke, being their agent to receive the same
+under the Act of Assembly of 1828, $3,220.71-1/4."
+
+In about the year 1818, the New York Indians, (which includes the
+Tuscaroras), were engaged in a stipulation, to buy a tract of land from
+the Menomonees and Winnebagoes, which was questioned in Congress about
+the validity of a contract on purchases of lands between Indian nations.
+But Congress did concur in the stipulation made between the New York
+Indians of the first part, and the Menomonees and Winnebagoes of the
+second part, for lands lying in Green Bay, Wisconsin, bought and paid for
+by the former according to the stipulation concluded in the year 1822.
+
+For the payment of the said land above, I can only speak for the
+Tuscaroras. The precise amount paid I am unable to state. But a tax was
+made on the nation; children paid twenty-five cents each, adults paid
+more according to their ability; the amount obtained in this way I am
+unable to state. They also gave their annuities of two years, which they
+drew from the government, and also two hundred dollars in money which
+they loaned from the Oneida Indians (which they afterwards refunded).
+
+All those goods and moneys were paid to the Menomonees and Winnebagoes,
+as their part of the Green Bay lands. These facts I obtained of the widow
+of Jonathan Printup, an honorable chief of the Tuscarara nation, by whom
+was entrusted with the goods and money for the payment of said lands,
+which he faithfully performed, and was accompanied as delegates by Dr.
+John Patterson and James Cusick, who were appointed to the honorable
+office of purchasing a tract of land for a future home of their people. I
+am indebted to the widow of Dr. John Patterson, and also his brother
+Harry, for information which corroborates with that of the widow above
+mentioned, and also of other old people.
+
+In a short time afterwards, the Menomonees denied the contract in various
+ways, they denied the efficiency of the Chiefs who signed the treaty, and
+also denied of having received any payment, and also denied the boundary
+of the land ceded. This naturally created difficulty and discord between
+them, and kept growing worse from year to year. But the Winebagoes never
+denied any of the denials of the Menomonees.
+
+In a treaty of the United States and the Menomonees and Winebagoes, of
+Feb. 6th, 1826, in Article 8th, it was acknowledged that there existed
+some uncertainty in consequence of the cession made by the tribes upon
+Fox River and Green Bay, to the New York Indians. Finally the Menomonees
+made their complaint before the President, concerning the New York
+Indians, which has reference to the case, in the treaty by the United
+States, with the several tribes of Green Bay on Feb. 23rd, 1829, in
+Article 2nd, which read as follows, viz:
+
+"Much difficulty having arising from the negotiations between the
+Menomonees and Winebago tribes and the various tribes and portions of
+tribes of Indian of the State of New York, and the claims of the
+respective parties being much contested, as well with relation to the
+tenure and boundaries of the two tracts claimed by the New York Indians,
+west of Lake Michigan, as to the authority of the persons who signed the
+agreement on the part of the Monomonees, and the whole subject having
+been fully examined at the council this day concluded, and the
+allegations, proofs, and statements of the respective parties having been
+entered upon the Journal of the commissioners, so that the same can be
+decided by the President of the United States, it is agreed by the
+Monomonees and Winebagoes, that so far as respects their interests in the
+premises, the whole matter shall be referred to the President of the
+United States, whose decision shall be final. And the President is
+authorized, on the parts, to establish such boundaries between them and
+the New York Indians as he may consider equitable and just."
+
+And also in the treaty of Feb. 8th, 1838, we find, in enumerating the
+several reasons for effecting a treaty at the above date, the following,
+commencing at line 20,928, in the Revision of Indian Treaties, viz: "as
+well as for the purpose of settling the long existing dispute between
+themselves, and the several tribes of the New York Indians, who claim to
+have purchased a portion of their lands, the undersigned, Chiefs and head
+men of the Menomenees tribe, stipulate and agree with the United States
+as follows:
+
+"First. The Menomonee tribe of Indians declare themselves the friend and
+allies of the United States, under whos parental care and protection they
+desire to continue; and although always protesting that they are under no
+obligation to recognize any claim of the New York Indians to any portions
+of their country; that they neither sold nor received any value for the
+land claimed by these tribes, yet at the solicitation of their Great
+Father, the President of the United States, and as an evidence of their
+great love and veneration for him, they agree that such a part of the
+land described, being within the following boundaries, as he may direct,
+may be set apart as homes for the several tribes of the New York Indians,
+who may remove to and settle upon the same within three years from the
+date of this agreement, &c." Commencing at line 20,970, the President of
+the United States is hereby empowered to apportion the lands among the
+actual occupants at that time, so as not to assign to any tribe a greater
+number of acres than may be equal to one hundred for each soul actually
+settled upon the lands, and if, at any time of such apportionment any
+lands shall remain unoccupied by any tribes of the New York Indians, such
+portion as would have belonged to said Indians, had it been occupied,
+shall revert to the United States. That portion, if any, so reverting to
+be laid off by the President of the United States. It is destinctly
+understood that the lands hereby ceded to the United States for the New
+York Indians are to be held by those tribes, under such tenure as the
+Menomonee Indians now hold their lands, subject to such regulations and
+alternation of tenure as Congress and the President of the United States
+shall from time to time think proper to adopt.
+
+"Second. For the above cession the United States for the benefit of the
+New York Indians, the United States consent to pay the Menomonee Indians
+twenty Thousand Dollars, &c.
+
+"Also commencing at line 21,118, Article 6th, the Menomonee Chiefs request
+that such part of it as relates to the New York Indians be immediately
+submmitted to the representatives of their tribes, and if they refuse to
+accept the provision made for their benefit and to remove upon the lands
+set apart for them, on the west side of Fox River, that they will direct
+their immediate removal from the Menomonee county, but if they agree to
+accept the liberal offer made to them by parties of this compact, then
+the Menomonee tribe, as dutiful children of the Great Father, the
+President, will take them by the hand as brothers, and settle down with
+them in peace and friendship."
+
+SUPPLEMENTARY ARTICLES.
+
+First. It is agreed between the undersigned, commissioners on behalf of
+the United States and the chiefs and warriors representing the Menomonee
+tribe of Indians, that for the reasons above expressed, such part of the
+first Article of the agreement entered into between the parties hereto,
+on the 8th instant, as limits the removal and settlement of the New York
+Indians upon the lands therein provided for their future homes, three
+years, shall be altered and amended so as to read as follows: That the
+President of the United States shall prescribe the time for the removal
+and settlement of the New York Indians upon the lands thus provided for
+them; and at the expiration of such reasonable time, he shall apportion
+the lands among the actual settlers in such manner as he shall deem
+equitable and just. And if, within such reasonable time as the President
+of the United States shall prescribe for that purpose, the New York
+Indians shall refuse to accept the provisions made for their benefit, or,
+having agreed, shall neglect or refuse to remove from New York, and
+settle on the said lands, within the time prescribed for that purpose,
+that then, and in either of these events, the lands aforesaid shall be
+and remain in the property of the United States, according to the said
+first article, excepting so much thereof as the President shall deem
+justly due to such of the New York Indians as shall actually have removed
+to and settled on the said lands.
+
+"Second, It is further agreed that the part of the Sixth Article of the
+agreement aforesaid, which requires the removal of those of the New York
+Indians who may not be settled on the lands at the end of three years,
+shall be so amended as to leave such removal discretionary with the
+President of the United States; the Menomonee Indians having full
+confidence that in making his decision he will take into consideration
+the welfare and prosperity of their nation: Provided, That for the
+purpose of establishing the rights of the New York Indians upon a
+permanent and just footing, the said treaty shall be ratified with the
+express understanding that two townships of land," &c. which goes on and
+locates the different portion of lands to the several tribes or bands of
+the New York Indians which was proclaimed, July 9, 1832.
+
+"Whereas articles of agreement between the United States of America, and
+the Menononee Indians, were made and concluded at the city of Washington,
+on the 8th day of February A. D. 1831, by John H. Eaton, and Samuel C.
+Stambaugh, commissioners on the part of the United States, and certain
+Chiefs and headmen of the Menomonee nation, on the part of the said
+nation; to which articles an addition or supplemental article was
+afterwards made, on the 17th day of February, in the same year, by which
+the said Menomonee nation agree to cede to the United States certain
+parts of their lands: and that a tract of country therein defined, shall
+be set apart for the New York Indians; all which, with the many other
+stipulations therein contained, will more fully appear by reference to
+the same. When said agreement thus forming a treaty, were laid before the
+Senate of the United States, during their then session, but were not at
+said session acted on by that body. Whereupon a further agreement was on
+the fifteenth day of March, in the same year, entered into for the
+purpose of preserving the provisions of the treaty made as aforesaid; by
+which it is stipulated that the said articles of agreement concluded as
+aforesaid, should be laid before the next Senate of the United States at
+their ensuing session, and if sanctioned and confirmed by them, that each
+and every article threof should be as binding and obligatory upon the
+parties respectively as if they had been sanctioned at the previous
+session; and whereas, The Senate of the United States, by their
+resolution of the twenty fifth day of June, 1832, did advise and consent
+to accept, ratify, and confirm the same, and every clause and article
+thereof, upon the conditions expressed in the proviso contained in their
+said resolution, which proviso is as follows: Provided, That for the
+purpose of establishing the right of the New York Indians on a permanent
+and just footing, the said treaty shall be ratified, with the express
+understanding that two townships of land, &c.," as in article second
+above.
+
+"Whereas, Before the treaty aforesaid, conditionally ratified, according
+to the proviso to the said resolution of the Senate, above recited, could
+be obligatory upon the said Menomomee nation, their assent to the same
+must be had and obtained." Which was done after some modifications
+respecting the location of the portion of land for the New York Indians.
+And as the modifications so made and desired, was acceded to also by the
+New York Indians, which was as follows:
+
+"To all to whom these presents shall come, the undersigned chiefs and
+head men of the sundry tribes of the New York Indians (as set forth in
+the specifications annexed to their signatures), send greeting:
+
+"Whereas, a tedious, perplexing and harassing dispute and controversy
+have long existed between the Menomonee Nation of Indians and the New
+York Indians, more particularly those known as the Stockbridge, Munsee
+and Brothertown tribes, the Six Nations and the St. Regis tribe. The
+treaty made between the said Menomonee Nation and the United States, and
+the conditional ratification thereof by the Senate of the United States
+being stated and set forth in the within agreement, entered into between
+the chiefs and head men of the said Menomonee, and George B. Porter,
+Governor of Michigan, commissioners specially appointed, with
+instructions referred to in the said agreement.
+
+"And whereas, the undersigned are satisfied and believe that the best
+efforts of the said commissioners were directed and used to procure, if
+practicable, the unconditional assent of the said Menomonees to the
+change proposed by the Senate of the United States in the ratification of
+the said treaty, but without success.
+
+"And whereas, the undersigned, further believe that the terms stated in
+the within agreement are the best practicable terms short of those
+proposed by the Senate of the United States, which could be obtained from
+the said Menomonees; and being asked to signify our acceptance of the
+modifications proposed, as aforesaid, by the Menomonees, we are compelled
+by a sense of duty and propriety to say that we do hereby accept of the
+same. So far as the tribes to which we belong are concerned, we are
+perfectly satisfied that the treaty should be ratified on the terms
+proposed by the Menomonees. We further believe that the tract of land
+which the Menomonees in the within agreement are willing to cede, in
+exchange for an equal quantity on the northeast side of the tract of five
+hundred thousand acres, contains a sufficient quantity of good land,
+favorably and advantageously situated, to answer all the wants of the New
+York Indians and St. Regis tribe. For the purpose, then, of putting an
+end to strife, and that we may sit down in peace and harmony, we thus
+signify by our acceptance of the modifications proposed by the
+Menomonees; and we most respectfully request that the treaty as now
+modified by the agreement this day entered into with the Menomonees, may
+be ratified and approved by the President and Senate of the United
+States.
+
+"Proclaimed March 13th, 1835."
+
+
+
+
+TREATIES OF NEW YORK INDIANS.
+
+Treaty with the New York Indians as amended by the Senate, and assented
+to
+by the several Tribes 1838.
+
+Articles of a treaty made and concluded at Buffalo Creek, in the State of
+New York, the fifteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one
+thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, by Ransom H. Gillett, a
+commissioner on the part of the United States, and the chiefs, head men
+and warriors of the several tribes of the New York Indians, assembled in
+council; witnesseth;
+
+"Whereas, The Six Nations of New York Indians, not long after the close
+of the war of the Revolution, became convinced, from the rapid increase
+of the white settlers around, that the time was not far distant when
+their true interest must lead them to seek a new home among their
+brethren in the West: and,
+
+"Whereas, This subject was agitated in a general council of the Six
+Nations as early as 1810, and resulted in sending a memorial to the
+President of the United States, inquiring whether the Government would
+consent to their tearing their habitations, and removing into the
+neighborhood of their western brethren, and if they could procure a home
+there, by gift or purchase, whether the Government would acknowledge
+their title to the lands so obtained in the same manner it had
+acknowledged it in those from whom they might receive it; and further,
+whether the existing treaties would in such a case remain in full force,
+and their annuities be paid as heretofore: and,
+
+"Whereas, With the approbation of the President of the United States,
+purchases were made by the New York Indians from the Menomonees and
+Winnebago Indians of certain lands at Green Bay, in the Territory of
+Wisconsin, which, after much difficulty and contention with those Indians
+concerning the extent of the purchase, the whole subject was finally
+settled by a treaty between the United States and the Menomonee Indians,
+concluded in February, 1831, to which the New York Indians gave their
+assent on the seventeenth day of October, 1832: and
+
+"Whereas, By a provision of that treaty, five hundred thousand acres of
+land are secured to the New York Indians of the Six Nations and the St.
+Regis tribe, as a future home, on the condition that they all remove to
+the same within three years, or such reasonable time as the President
+shall prescribe, and
+
+"Whereas, The President is satisfied that various considerations have
+prevented those still residing in New York from removing to Green Bay,
+and among other reasons, that many who were in favor of emigration
+preferred to remove at once to the Indian Territory; which they were
+fully persuaded was the only permanent and peaceable home for all the
+Indians. And they therefore applied to take their Green Bay lands and
+provide them a new home among their brethren in the Indian Territory: and
+
+"Whereas, The President, being anxious to promote the peace, prosperity
+and happiness of his red children, and determined to carry out the humane
+policy of the Government in removing the Indians from the east to the
+west of the Mississippi, within the Indian Territory, by bringing them to
+see and feel, by his justice and liberality, that it is their true policy
+and for their interest to do so without delay,
+
+"Therefore. Taking into consideration the foregoing premises, the
+following articles of a treaty are entered into, between the United
+States of America and the several tribes of the New York Indians, the
+names of whose chiefs, head men and warriors are hereto subscribed, and
+those who may hereafter give their assent to this treaty in writing
+within such time as the President shall appoint."
+
+GENERAL PROVISIONS:
+
+"Article 1. The several tribes of the New York Indians, the names of
+whose chiefs, head men, warriors and representatives are hereunto
+annexed, in consideration of the premises above recited, and the
+covenants hereinafter contained, to be performed on the part of the
+United States, hereby cede and relinquish to the United States all their
+right, title and interest, in the lands secured to them at Green Bay by
+the Menomonee treaty of 1831, except the following tract on which a part
+of the New York Indians now reside: Beginning at the southwesterly corner
+of the French grants at Green Bay, and running thence southwardly to a
+point and line to be run from the little Cocalin, parallel to a line of
+the French grants, and six miles from Fox river; from thence, on said
+parallel line, northwardly six miles; from thence eastwardly to a point
+on the northeast line of the Indian lands, and being a right angle to the
+same.
+
+"Article 2. In consideration of the above cession and relinquishment on
+the part of the tribes of the New York Indians, and in order to manifest
+the deep interest of the United States in the future peace and prosperity
+of the New York Indians, the United States agree to set apart the
+following tract of country, situated directly west of the State of
+Missouri, as a permanent home for the New York Indians now residing in
+the State of New York, or in Wisconsin, or elsewhere in the United
+States, who have no permanent homes; which said country is described as
+follows: Beginning on the west line of the State of Missouri, at the
+northeast corner of the Cherokee tract, and running thence north along
+the west line of the State of Missouri twenty-seven miles to the
+southerly line of the Missouri lands: thence west so far as shall be
+necessary, by running a line at right angles and parallel to the west
+line aforesaid, to Osage lands; and thence easterly along the Osage and
+Cherokee lands to the place of beginning; to include one million eight
+hundred and twenty-four thousand acres of land, being three hundred and
+twenty acres for each soul of said Indians, as their numbers are at
+present computed. To have and hold the same, in fee simple, to the said
+tribes or nations of Indians, by patent from the President of the United
+States, issued in conformity with the third section of the act entitled,
+'An act to provide for an exchange of lands with the Indians residing in
+any of the States or Territories, and for their removal west of the
+Mississippi,' approved on the 28th day of May, 1830, with full power and
+authority in the said Indians to divide said lands among the different
+tribes, nations or bands in severalty, with the right to sell and convey
+to and from each other, under such laws and regulations as may be adopted
+by the respective tribes, acting by themselves or by a general council of
+the said New York Indians, acting for all the tribes collectively. It is
+understood and agreed that the above described country is intended as a
+future home for the following tribes, to-wit: The Senecas, Onondagas,
+Cayugas, Tuscaroras, Oneidas, St. Regis, Stockbridges, Munsees and
+Brothertowns, residing in the State of New York, and the same is to be
+divided equally among them according to their respective numbers, as
+mentioned in a schedule hereunto annexed.
+
+"Article 3. It is further agreed that such of the tribes of the New York
+Indians as do not accept and agree to remove to the country set apart for
+their new homes, within five years, or such other time as the President
+may from time to time appoint, shall forfeit all interest in the lands so
+set apart, to the United States.
+
+"Article 4. Perpetual peace and friendship shall exist between the United
+States and the New York Indians; and the United States hereby guarantee
+to protect and defend them in the peaceable possession and enjoyment of
+their new home, and hereby secure to them, in said country, the right to
+establish their own form of government, appoint their own officers, and
+administer their own laws; subject, however, to the legislation of the
+United States, regulating trade and intercourse with the Indians. The
+lands secured to them by patent under this treaty shall never be included
+in any state or territory of this Union. The said Indians shall also be
+entitled in all respects to the same political and civil rights and
+privileges that are granted and secured by the United States to any of
+the several tribes of emigrant Indians settled in the Indian Territory.
+
+"Article 5. The Oneidas are to have their lands in the Indian Territory,
+in the tract set apart for the New York Indians, adjoining the Osage
+tract, and that hereinafter set apart for the Senecas; and the same shall
+be so laid off as to secure them a sufficient quantity of timber for
+their use.
+
+"Those tribes whose lands are not specially designated in this treaty are
+to have such as shall be set apart by the President.
+
+"Article 6. It is further agreed that the United States will pay to those
+who remove west, at their new homes, all such annuities as shall properly
+belong to them. The schedule hereunto annexed shall be deemed and taken
+as a part of this treaty.
+
+"Article 7. It is expressly understood and agreed that the treaty must be
+approved by the President and ratified and confirmed by the Senate of the
+United States, before it shall be binding upon the parties to it.
+
+"It is further expressly understood and agreed that the rejection, by the
+President and Senate, of the provisions thereof, applicable to one tribe
+or distant branch of a tribe shall not be construed to invalidate as to
+others; but as to them, it shall be binding and remain in full force and
+effect.
+
+"Article 8. It is stipulated and agreed that the accounts of the
+commissioner and expenses incurred by him in holding a council with the
+New York Indians, and concluding treaties at Green Bay and Duck Creek in
+Wisconsin, and in the State of New York in 1836, and those for the
+exploring party of the present treaty, shall be allowed and settled
+according to former precedents."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR THE ST. REGIS.
+
+"Article 9. It is agreed with the American party of the St. Regis
+Indians, that the United States will pay to the said tribe, on their
+removal west, or at such time as the President shall appoint, the sum of
+five thousand dollars, as a remuneration for moneys laid out by the said
+tribe and services rendered by their chiefs and agents in securing the
+title to the Green Bay lands, and in removal to the same, to be
+apportioned out to the several claimants by the chiefs of the said party,
+and a United States commissioner, as may be deemed by them equitable and
+just. If is further agreed that the following reservation of land shall
+be made to the Rev. Eleazar Williams of said tribe, which he claims in
+his own right and that of his wife, which he is to hold in fee simple by
+patent from the President, with full power and authority to sell and
+dispose of the same, to-wit. Beginning at a point in the west bank of the
+Fox River, thirteen chains above the old mill-dam at the rapids of the
+little Kockalin, thence north fifty-two degrees and thirty minutes west,
+two hundred and forty chains, thence north thirty-seven degrees and
+thirty minutes east, two hundred chains, thence south fifty-two degrees
+and thirty minutes east, two hundred and forty chains to the bank of the
+Fox river, thence up along the bank of the Fox river to the place of
+beginning."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISION FOR THE SENECAS.
+
+"Article 10. It is agreed with the Senecas that they shall have for
+themselves and their friends the Cayugas and Onondagas residing among
+them, the easterly part of the tract set apart for the New York Indians,
+and to extend so far west as to include one-half section (three hundred
+and twenty acres) of land for each soul of the Senecas, Cayugas and
+Onondagas residing among them; and if on removing west they find there is
+not sufficient timber on this tract for their use, then the President
+shall add thereto timber land sufficient for their accommodation and they
+agree to remove from the State of New York to their new homes within five
+years, and to continue to reside there. And Whereas, At the making of
+this treaty, Thomas L. Ogden and Joseph Fellows, the assignees of the
+State of Massachusetts have purchased of the Seneca Nation of Indians, in
+the presence and with the approbation of the United States Commissioner,
+appointed by the United States to hold said treaty or convention, all the
+rights, title, interest and claim of the said Seneca Nation to certain
+lands by a deed of conveyance, a duplicate of which is hereunto annexed,
+and whereas, the consideration money mentioned in said deed, amounting to
+two hundred and two thousand dollars, belonging to the Seneca Nation, and
+the said nation agrees to receive the same, to be disposed of as follows,
+The sum of one hundred thousand dollars to be invested by the President
+of the United States in safe stock, for their use, the income of which is
+to be paid to them at their new homes annually, and the balance, being
+one hundred and two thousand dollars, is to be paid to the owners of the
+improvements on lands so deeded according to an appraisement of said
+improvements, and a distribution and award of said sum of money among the
+owners of said improvement, to be made by appraisers hereafter to be
+appointed by the Seneca nation, in the presence of the United States'
+Commissioner hereafter to be appointed, to be paid by the United States
+to the individuals who are entitled to the same, according to said
+appraisal and award, and their severally relinquishing their respective
+possessions to the said Ogden and Fellows."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR THE CAYUGAS.
+
+"Article 11 The United States will not set apart for Cayugas, on their
+removing to their new homes at the west, two thousand dollars, and will
+invest the same in some safe stocks, the income of which shall be paid
+them annually at their new homes. The United States further agree to the
+said nation on their removal west, two thousand five hundred dollars, to
+be disposed of as the chiefs shall deem just and equitable."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISION FOR THE ONONDAGAS ON THE SENECA RESERVATIONS.
+
+"Article 12. The United States agreed to set apart for the Onondagas
+residing on the Seneca Reservation, two thousand five hundred dollars, on
+their removing west, and to invest the same in safe stock, the income of
+which shall be paid to them annually, at their new homes. And the United
+States further agree to pay to the said Onondagas, on their removal to
+their new homes in the west, two thousand dollars, to be disposed of as
+the chiefs shall deem equitable and just."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR THE ONEIDAS RESIDING IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
+
+"Article 13. The United States will pay the sum of four thousand dollars,
+to be paid to Babtist Powlis, and the chiefs of the first Christian party
+residing at Oneida, and the sum of two thousand dollars shall be paid to
+William Day, and the chiefs of the Orchard party residing there, for
+expenses incurred and services rendered in securing the Green Bay
+country, and the settlement of a portion thereof; and they hereby agree
+to remove to their new homes in the Indian Territory as soon as they can
+make satisfactory arrangements with the Governor of the State of New York
+for the purchase of their lands at Oneida."
+
+SPECIAL PROVISION FOR THE TUSCARORAS.
+
+"Article 14 The Tuscarora Nation agree to accept the country set apart
+for them in the Indian Territory, and to remove there within five years,
+and continue to reside there. It is further agreed that the Tuscaroras
+shall have their lands in the Indian country, at the forks or the Neasha
+River, which shall be so laid off as to secure a sufficient quantity of
+timber for the accommodation of the nation. But if on examination, they
+are not satisfied with this location, they are to have their lands at
+such a place as the President of the United States shall designate. The
+United States will pay to the Tuscarora Nation, on their settling at the
+west, three thousand dollars, to be disposed of as the chiefs shall deem
+most equitable and just.
+
+"Whereas, The said nation owns, in fee simple, five thousand acres of
+land lying in Niagara county, in the State of New York, which was
+conveyed to the said nation by Henry Dearborn, and they wish to sell and
+convey the same before they remove west.
+
+"Now, therefore, in order to have the same done in a legal and proper
+way, they hereby convey the same to the United States, and to be held in
+trust for them; and they authorize the President to sell and convey the
+same, and the money which shall be received for the said lands, exclusive
+of the improvement, the President shall invest in safe stock for their
+benefit, the income from which shall be paid to the nation at their new
+homes annually; and the money which shall be received for improvements on
+saidlands shall be paid to the owners of the improvements, when the lands
+are sold. The President shall cause the lands to be surveyed, and the
+improvements shall be appraised by such persons as the nation shall
+appoint; and said lands shall also be appraised, and shall not be sold at
+a less price than the appraisal, without the consent of James Cusick,
+William Mount Pleasant and William Chew, or the survivor or survivors of
+them. And the expenses incurred by the United States in relation to this
+trust are to be deducted from the moneys received before investment. And
+whereas, at the making of this treaty, Thomas L. Ogden and Joseph
+Fellows, the assignees of the State of Massachusetts, have purchased of
+the Tuscarora Nation of Indians, in the presence and with the approbation
+of the commissioner appointed on the part of the United States, to hold a
+treaty or convention, all the right, title, interest, and claim of the
+Tuscarora Nation to certain lands, by a deed of conveyance, a duplicate
+of which is hereunto annexed; and whereas, the consideration money for
+said lands has been secured to the said nation to their satisfaction, by
+Thomas L. Ogden and Joseph Fellows. Therefore the United States hereby
+assent to the said sale and conveyance, and sanction the same.
+
+"Article 15. The United States hereby agree that they will appropriate
+the sum of four hundred thousand dollars, to be applied from time to
+time, under the direction of the President of the United States, in such
+proportions as may be best for the interests of the said Indians, parties
+to the treaty, for the following purposes to wit: To aid them in removing
+to their new homes, and supporting themselves the first year after their
+removal; to encourage and assist them in education, and in being taught
+to cultivate their lands, in erecting mills and other necessary houses;
+in purchasing domestic animals and farming utensils, and acquiring a
+knowledge of the mechanical arts."
+
+SCHEDULE A.
+
+CENSUS OF THE NEW YORK INDIANS AS TAKEN IN 1837.
+
+Number residing on the Seneca Reservations:
+Senecas................................... 2,309
+Onondagas................................... 194
+Cayugas..................................... 130
+                                           -----
+                                           2,633
+                                           =====
+
+Onondagas at Onondaga..................... 300
+Stockbridge............................... 217
+Munsees................................... 132
+Brothertowns.............................. 360
+Oneidas in New York....................... 620
+Oneidas at Green Bay...................... 600
+St. Regis in New York..................... 350
+Tuscaroras................................ 273
+
+The above was made before the execution of the treaty.
+
+R. H. GILLET, Commissioner.
+
+SCHEDULE B.
+
+The following is the disposition agreed to be made of the sum of three
+thousand dollars provided in the treaty for the Tuscaroras by the chiefs,
+and assented to by the Commissioner, and is to form a part of the treaty:
+
+To Jonathan Printess, ninety-three dollars.
+
+To William Chew, one hundred and fifteen dollars.
+
+To John Patterson, forty-six dollars.
+
+To Wm. Mt. Pleasant, one hundred and seventy-one dollars.
+
+To James Cusick, one hundred and twenty-five dollars.
+
+To David Peter, fifty dollars.
+
+The rest and residue thereof is to be paid to the Nation.
+
+The above was agreed to before the execution of the treaty.
+
+R. H. GILLET, Commissioner.
+
+SCHEDULE C.
+
+SCHEDULE APPLICABLE TO THE ONONDAGAS AND CAYUGAS RESIDING ON THE SENECA
+RESERVATIONS.
+
+It is agreed that the following disposition shall be made of the amount
+set apart to be divided by the chiefs of those nations in the preceding
+part of this treaty, anything to the contrary notwithstanding:
+
+To William King, one thousand five hundred dollars.
+
+To Joseph Isaac, seven hundred dollars.
+
+To Jack Wheelbarrow, three hundred dollars.
+
+To William Jacket, five hundred dollars.
+
+To Buton George, five hundred dollars.
+
+The above was agreed to before the treaty was fully executed.
+
+R. H. GILLET, Commissioner.
+
+At a treaty held under the authority of the United States of America at
+Buffalo Creek, in the county of Erie and the State of New York, between
+the chiefs and head men of the Seneca Nation of Indians, duly assembled
+in council, and representing and acting for the said Nation, on the one
+part, and Thomas Ludlow Ogden, of the city of New York, and Joseph
+Fellows, of Geneva, in the county of Ontario, on the other part,
+concerning the purchase of the right and claims of the said Indians in
+and to the lands within the State of New York, remaining in their
+occupation. Ransom H. Gillet, Esq., a commissioner appointed by the
+President of the United States to attend and hold the said treaty, and
+also Josiah Trowbridge, Esq., the superintendent on behalf of the
+Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being severally present at the said
+treaty, the said chiefs and head men, on behalf of the Seneca Nation, did
+agree to sell and release to the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph
+Fellows, and they, the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows, did
+agree to purchase all the right, title and claim of the said Seneca
+Nation of, in and to the several tracts, pieces or parcels of land
+mentioned and described in the instrument of writing next hereinafter set
+forth, and at the price or sum therein specified, as the consideration or
+purchase money for such sale and release; which instrument, being read
+and explained to the said parties and mutually agreed to, was signed and
+sealed by the said contracting parties, and is in the words following:
+
+This indenture, made this fifteenth day of January, in the year of our
+Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, between the chiefs and
+head men of the Seneca Nation of Indians, duly assembled in council, and
+acting for and on behalf of the said Seneca Nation, of the first part,
+and Thomas Ludlow Ogden, of the city of New York, and Joseph Fellows, of
+Geneva, in the county of Ontario, of the second part, witnesseth:
+
+That the said chiefs and head men of the Seneca Nation of Indians, in
+consideration of the sum of two hundred and two thousand dollars to them
+in hand paid by the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows, the
+receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have granted, bargained, sold,
+released and confirmed, and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell,
+release and confirm unto the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows,
+and to their heirs and assigns, all that certain tract or parcel of land
+situate, lying and being in the county of Erie and State of New York,
+commonly called and known by the name of Buffalo Creek Reservation,
+containing by estimation forty-nine thousand nine hundred and twenty
+acres, be the contents thereof more or less. Also all that certain other
+tract or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the counties of
+Erie, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus, in said State, commonly called and
+known by the name of Cattaraugus Reservation, containing by estimation
+twenty-one thousand six hundred and eighty acres, be the contents thereof
+more or less. Also all that certain other tract or parcel of land,
+situate, lying and being in the said county of Cattaraugus, in said
+State, commonly called and known by the name of the Alleghany
+Reservation, containing by estimation thirty thousand four hundred and
+sixty-nine acres, be the contents more or less. And also all that certain
+other tract or parcel of land, situate, lying and being partly in said
+county of Erie and partly in the county of Genesee in said State,
+commonly called and known by the name of the Tonawanda Reservation, and
+containing by estimation twelve thousand eight hundred acres, be the same
+more or less: As the said several tracts of land have been heretofore
+reserved and are held and occupied by the Seneca Nation of Indians, or by
+individuals thereof, together with all and singular the rights,
+privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances to each and every of the said
+tracts or parcels of land belonging or appertaining; and all the estate,
+right, title, interest, claim and demand of the said party of the first
+part, and of the said Seneca Nation of Indians, of, in and to the same,
+and to each and every parcel thereof; to have and to hold all and
+singular the above described and released premises unto the said Thomas
+Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows, their heirs and assigns, to their proper
+use and behalf forever, as joint tenants, and not as tenants in common.
+
+At the before-mentioned treaty, held in my presence, as superintendent on
+the part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and this day concluded,
+the foregoing instrument of writing was agreed to by the contracting
+parties therein named, and was in my presence executed by them, and being
+approved by me, I do hereby certify and declare such my approbation
+thereof.
+
+Witness my hand and seal, at Buffalo Creek, this 15th day of, January, in
+the year 1838.
+
+JOSIAH TROWBRIDGE.
+
+I have attended a treaty of the Seneca Nation of Indians, held at Buffalo
+Creek, in the county of Erie, in the State of New York, on the fifteenth
+day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
+thirty-eight, when the within instrument was duly executed in my
+presence, by the chiefs of the Seneca Nation, being fairly and properly
+understood by them. I do therefore certify and approve the same.
+
+R. H. GILLET, Commissioner.
+
+At a treaty held under and by authority of the United States of America,
+at Buffalo Creek, in the county of Erie, and State of New York, between
+the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the Tuscarora Nation of Indians, duly
+assembled in council, and representing and voting for the said Nation, on
+the one part, and Thomas Ludlow Ogden, of the city of New York, and
+Joseph Fellows, of Geneva, in the county of Ontario, on the other part,
+concerning the purchase of the rights and claim of the said Indians in
+and to the lands within the State of New York remaining in their
+occupation. Ransom H. Gillett, Esq., a commissioner appointed by the
+President of the United States to attend and hold the said treaty, and
+also Josiah Trowbridge, Esq., the superintendent on behalf of the
+Commonwealth of Massachusetts, being severally present at the said
+treaty, the said sachems, chiefs and warriors, on behalf of the said
+Tuscarora Nation, did agree to sell and release to the said Thomas Ludlow
+Ogden and Joseph Fellows, and they, the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and
+Joseph Fellows, did agree to purchase all the right, title and claim of
+the Tuscarora Nation of, in and to the tract, piece or parcel of land
+mentioned and described in the instrument of writing next hereafter set
+forth, and at the price or sum therein specified as the consideration or
+purchase money for such sale and release; which instrument being read and
+explained to the said parties, and mutually agreed to, was signed and
+sealed by the contracting parties, and is in the words following:
+
+This indenture, made this fifteenth day of January, in the year of our
+Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, between the sachems,
+chiefs and warriors of the Tuscarora Nation of Indians, duly assembled in
+council, and acting for and on behalf of the said Tuscarora Nation, of
+the first part, and Thomas Ludlow Ogden, of the city of New York, and
+Joseph Fellows, of Geneva, in the county of Ontario, of the second part,
+witnesseth:
+
+That the said sachems, chiefs and warriors of the Tuscarora Nation, in
+consideration of the sum of nine thousand six hundred dollars to them in
+hand paid by the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows, the receipt
+whereof is hereby acknowledged, have granted, bargained, sold, released
+and confirmed, and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell, release and
+confirm to the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and Joseph Fellows, and to their
+heirs and assigns, all that tract or parcel of land situated, lying and
+being in the county of Niagara, and State of New York, commonly called
+and known by the name of the Tuscarora Reservation, or Seneca grant,
+containing nineteen hundred and twenty acres, be the same more or less,
+being thelands in their occupancy, and not included in the land conveyed
+to them by Henry Dearborn, together with all and singular the rights,
+privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances to the said tract or parcel
+of land belonging or appertaining, and all the estate, right, title,
+interest, claim and demand of the said party of the first part, and of
+the said Tuscarora Nation of Indians of, in and to the same, and to every
+part and parcel thereof; to have and to hold all and singular the above
+described and released premises unto the said Thomas Ludlow Ogden and
+Joseph Fellows, and their heirs and assigns, to their proper use and
+behalf forever, as joint tenants and not as tenants in common.
+
+At the above-mentioned treaty, held in my presence as superintendent on
+the part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and this day concluded, the
+foregoing instrument was agreed to by the contracting parties therein
+named, and was in my presence executed by them; and being approved by me,
+I do hereby certify and declare such my approbation thereof.
+
+Witness my hand and seal at Buffalo Creek, this 15th day of January, in
+the year 1838,
+
+J. TROWBRIDGE, Superintendent.
+
+I have attended a treaty of the Tuscarora Nation of Indians, held at
+Buffalo Creek, in the county of Erie, in the State of New York, on the
+fifteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
+hundred and thirty-eight, when the within instrument was duly executed in
+my presence by the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the said nation, being
+fairly and properly understood and transacted by all the parties of
+Indians concerned, and declared to be done to their full satisfaction. I
+do therefore certify and approve the same.
+
+R. H. GILLET, Commissioner.
+
+SUPPLEMENTAL ARTICLE TO THE TREATY CONCLUDED AT BUFFALO CREEK, IN THE
+STATE OF NEW YORK, ON THE 15TH DAY OF JANUARY, 1838, CONCLUDED BETWEEN
+RANSOM H. GILLET, COMMISSIONER, ON THE PART OF THE UNITED STATES, AND
+CHIEFS AND HEAD MEN OF THE ST. REGIS INDIANS, CONCLUDED ON THE 13TH OF
+FEBRUARY, 1838.
+
+The undersigned, chiefs and head men of the St. Regis Indians, residing
+in the State of New York, having heard a copy of said treaty read by
+Ransom H. Gillet, the commissioner who concluded that treaty on the part
+of the United States, and be having fully and publicly explained the
+same, and believing the conditions of the said treaty to be very liberal
+on the part of the United States, and calculated to be highly beneficial
+to the New York Indians, including the St. Regis, who are embraced in its
+provision, do hereby assent to every part of the said treaty, and approve
+the same. And it is further agreed that any of the St. Regis Indians who
+wish to do so shall be at liberty to remove to the said country at any
+time hereafter within the time specified in this treaty, but under it the
+Government shall not compel them to remove.
+
+The United States will, within one year after the ratification of this
+treaty, pay over to the American party of said Indians one thousand
+dollars, part of the sum of five thousand dollars mentioned in the
+special provisions for the St. Regis Indians, anything in the article
+contained to the contrary, notwithstanding.
+
+Proclaimed April 4, 1840.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+In the year 1846, on the 16th day of May, about forty of the Tuscaroras
+emigrated from the reservation to their new homes in the Indian
+Territory, and in one year about one-third of them died on account of the
+sufferings they endured. They were destitute of everything, and the
+Government was to have sustained them for one year, and to build houses
+for them, and provide all the necessaries of life, but they failed in
+fulfilling their promises on account of the misconduct of Dr. A.
+Hogeboom, the moving agent of the emigration party.
+
+By reference to official documents in the Indian department it appears
+that a petition from a small party of discontented emigrationists at the
+Tuscarora village, dated March 4th, 1845, was sent to the President of
+the United States, expressing a desire to remove to the West. It also
+further appears that a letter had been received by the department from a
+certain D. G. Garnsey, dated May 8th, 1845, stating that a portion of the
+Senecas, and others of the Six Nations in western New York, were now
+ready to remove. The Government, justly fearing that there might be
+persons so anxious to possess themselves of the moneys appropriated by
+law for the removal and support of emigrating Indians, as to resort to
+fraudulent means for the purpose, by letters warned the Indian agent at
+Buffalo to be on his guard against such imposition. Afterwards, several
+petitioners from small fragments of the Senecas and other tribes, were
+prevailed on to sign memorials to the President, asking to be removed,
+and begging appropriations for that purpose. To those well acquainted
+with these movements, there was sufficient evidence that persons
+interested in their removal were at the bottom of all this business.
+
+Of the Six Nations, once the owners and lords of the soil within the
+boundaries of the great Commonwealth of New York, there were many small
+remnants scattered over the western part of this State in a condition of
+wretched vagrancy; reduced by idleness and intemperance to poverty, and
+ready, for a trifling compensation, to have their names attached to any
+memorial, without regard to its objects, for a small sum of money they
+would lend themselves to the service of any artful intriguer whose
+designs were to defraud the Government.
+
+By an act of Congress passed on the 3rd day of April, 1843, the sum of
+twenty thousand four hundred and seventy-seven dollars and fifty cents
+was appropriated for the removal of two hundred and fifty Indians to the
+countries west and south of the Missouri river.
+
+This appropriation was granted in consequence of repeated assurances made
+to the Indian department that this number were anxious to emigrate. The
+glittering prize thus hung up in the face of the noon-day sun was so
+bright and alluring that a goodly number of hungry candidates were soon
+seen entering the lists and struggling for the prize. But, alas! for the
+conditions; unless two hundred and fifty Indians could be procured to
+enrol themselves on the emigration engagement, and actually embark for
+the West, the stakes could not be legally won. Here was the great
+difficulty. And yet one would suppose that out of four thousand eight
+hundred and eighty-five Indians, belonging to the following tribes, to
+wit: the Senecas, Onondagas, Cayugas, Tuscaroras, Oneidas, St. Regises,
+Stockbridges, Munsees and Brothertowns, by taking up all the poor,
+degraded individuals, and gathering together all the sincere
+emigrationists, such a small proportion of the whole might easily be
+procured; especially if these candidates for an agency had told the truth
+when they asserted that _large bodies of the Indians were anxious to
+remove_. By these movements the Government had been induced to believe
+that there really was an emigration party sufficiently large to meet the
+objects of the late appropriation, and to warrant the appointment of an
+emigration agent. Under this impression, the Secretary of War, by a
+letter dated Sept. 12, 1845, addressed to Dr. Abraham Hogeboom, appointed
+him to that office, instructing him, however, that no movement was to be
+made unless the full complement of emigrants should desire, in good
+faith, to remove to the West, and Hogeboom was also explicitly informed
+that "the Government would not undertake the emigration of these Indians
+unless _two hundred and fifty_ of them, then residing in the State
+of New York, exclusive of the Canada Indians, should muster themselves
+and actually go with the agent."
+
+As if to leave no door open for misunderstanding, the Commissioner of
+Indian Affairs at Washington addressed a letter to Hogeboom, dated Oct.
+2nd, 1845, in which it was expressly declared that "two hundred and fifty
+Indians is the smallest number that will be emigrated."
+
+On the 27th of that month, Hogeboom wrote to the department giving it
+information that two hundred and nine Indians had enrolled themselves,
+and some of their chiefs had assured him that at Buffalo, Cattaraugus and
+Alleghany there would be twenty more. Thus the utmost number that the
+Doctor could dare to hope for was two hundred and twenty-nine. If that
+letter was written in order to feel after the temper of the departmcnt,
+and to ascertain how far it was disposed to relax its determination to
+send no less away than two hundred and fifty, he was not long in
+suspense, for by a letter dated Nov. 4th the Secretary of War again
+reminded him that he, was "selected to act as emigrating agent only in
+the event that two hundred and fifty would go." But on the 7th of that
+month Hogeboom again writes to him, dating his letter from Buffalo,
+saying he had ascertained that two hundred and sixty, Indians had
+enrolled themselves, and had fixed on the 20th of that month as the time
+for starting. This sudden and unexpected movement was not agreeable to
+the Secretary on account of the advanced state of the season; but, hoping
+they might get out before the lakes and rivers should be impassable on
+account of the ice, he immediately ordered provisions for their
+sustenance at their intended homes, to be procured and be in readiness at
+the time of their arrival.
+
+Notwithstanding all these assurances on the part of Hogeboom, when the
+time for telling the truth came the whole scheme failed; a sufficient
+number of Indians could not be persuaded to go. The emigration was
+therefore indefinitely postponed.
+
+It will be seen by the foregoing statement that on the 27th day of
+October Hogeboom wrote to the department that only two hundred and nine
+had enrolled themselves, and he then admitted that only twenty more could
+be hoped for in addition; of course there was no prospect of emigrating
+that season. Indeed the Doctor says in that letter, speaking of the
+Indians, "they do not think they will be able to obtain the number of two
+hundred and fifty to emigrate this fall." Up to this time nothing had
+been done to induce the war department to advance any money to the agent.
+So, not only had the emigration scheme failed, but, so far as the Doctor
+had been moved by pecuniary motives, he had also failed. This was no
+doubt a trying circumstance, but the trial did not long continue, for
+only ten days after he had written to the war department that the Indians
+did not think they could emigrate this fall, he wrote again to the
+Secretary of War, under date of Nov. 7th, 1845, saying "I have
+ascertained that two hundred and sixty Indians have enrolled themselves
+for emigration, and have fixed the time for starting on the 20th inst."
+The following is an extract from a letter from the department to
+Hogeboom, dated Nov. 14th, in answer to his of the 7th. It was no doubt a
+letter such as the Doctor much desired:
+
+SIR;--I have received your letter of the 7th inst., informing the
+department of the enrollment of two hundred and sixty New York Indians
+for emigration to their western homes, and proceed, _now that there
+appears to be no doubt of the movement taking place_, to give you some
+instructions, &c. * * * A requisition for $10,000 has this day been
+issued in your favor, with which you will be charged and held accountable
+for, under the head of "removal, &c., of New York Indians," per act March
+3rd, 1843.
+
+(Signed)
+W. MEDILL, Commissioner.
+
+Thus the Doctor was put in possession of the sum of _ten thousand
+Dollars_, and we hear no more about the two hundred and sixty Indians,
+nor of any more trouble about Indian emigration during the remainder of
+the year.
+
+The proceedings of Dr. Hogeboom; and other persons interested in removing
+the Senecas, necessarily produced great agitation, and a very unsettled
+state among those who had no idea of emigrating. The chiefs on the
+reservations of Alleghany and Cattaraugus, harassed and perplexed by this
+vexatious state of things, at length determined to address the President
+on the occasion. This application procured the appointment of the council
+which was held at Cattaraugus on June 2d, 1846.
+
+In the spring of 1846 Dr. Hogeboom, hearing that the Government had
+called a council of the Senecas, for the express purpose of inquiring
+officially whether there was an emigration party among them, and, if
+there was one, what its number, made great exertions to push off his
+emigrants. Regardless of the positive instructions of the Government, and
+without its knowledge, he hastily collected as many of the Indians as he
+could bring under his influence, and with them embarked in a steamboat at
+Silver Creck, on Lake Eric, near Cattaraugus Reservation.
+
+The circumstances and manner of the embarkation throws much light on the
+motives and conduct of this emigrating agent. The subject is graphically
+related in a speech of Israel Jemison, as made in a council of 1846, and
+addressed to the Commissioners of the United States, as follows, to wit:
+
+"Brothers! The question relative to emigration being disposed of, I will
+explain the manner in which this removal of the Indians to the West has
+been effected. I believe it was irregularly conducted. Indeed, I may say,
+of this I am convinced. The agent who came to execute it was duly
+notified, that the Government had called the present council for the
+consideration and investigation of this matter. As soon as it was known
+that this had been determined on, _great efforts were made to hurry off
+the emigrants and induce them to leave before the council would meet_.
+I am satisfied that many were decoyed away by various contrivances and
+gross misrepresentations on the part of the emigrating agent and his
+emissaries. I myself remonstrated against these proceedings, and asked if
+it could beproper to inveigle and deceive the Indians in this manner. In
+reply I was desired to be silent, to which I rejoined that many of them
+whom they had decoyed on board were then drunk, and in a state of
+unconsciousness! These remonstrances availed nothing, and the whole were
+hurried away. If anyshowed an unwillingness to go they were told they
+might return if theychose, should they not like the place when they got
+there."
+
+The painful, and indeed the awful result of this inhuman conduct of Dr.
+Hogeboom will be seen by reference to the memorial of the Seneca chiefs
+to
+the President of the United States, invoking the aid of the Government to
+bring back the wretched surviving remnant of the poor duped people. It is
+as follows:
+
+_To His Excellency, James K. Polk, President of the United States_:
+
+The memorial of the undersigned chiefs and warriors of the Seneca Nation
+of Indians, residing in the State of New York, respectfully showeth,
+
+That a party of the Seneca Nation, consisting, as your memorialists have
+been informed, of sixty-two persons, together with a portion of the
+Cayugas, Onondagas and Oneidas, residing with us, and a party of the
+Tuscaroras, residing near Lewiston, in Niagara county, left the State of
+New York last spring to settle in the country west of Missouri. That your
+memorialists have been credibly informed by letters received from
+individuals among them, and by the statements of such as have returned,
+that great distress has, from their first arrival there, existed among
+them, and does exist without mitigation, in consequence of the
+insalubrity of the climate; that twenty persons of the sixty-two Senecas
+were already dead some six weeks since, and about the same proportion of
+our friends of the other tribes; that many others were sick; that three
+of the leading Seneca chiefs, one of the Onondagas, one of the Oneidas,
+and a leading man of the Tuscaroras, were dead; that the remnant of the
+people, with very few exceptions, were very anxious to return, but were
+destitute of the means of doing so; that many of them have sent earnest
+requests to us for assistance to enable them to do so; but that only a
+few families among us are able to furnish efficient relief to their
+suffering friends. In view of all these facts, we would respectfully
+request the Vice President to furnish the necessary assistance to bring
+back the remnant of the party to their former homes, and to arrange for
+the payment of the annuities belonging to them, so that in future they
+may receive them here. Although they went out from us against our earnest
+remonstrance and entreaty, and some of them mocking our expressions of
+concern for them as we stood around the boat when they were going on
+board, still we shall rejoice to have them home again amongst us, for
+they are our brethren and their sufferings grieve us to the heart.
+Thirteen of the Senecas have already returned, and three others, we have
+heard, are on the way. This makes the condition of those unable to return
+the more lonely and wretched. We hope the President will not say it was
+their own fault that they went there, for even if they were to be blamed
+for doing so, they had already suffered a fearful punishment. But we
+think that if the President were acquainted with the circumstances he
+would pity rather than blame them for going. Notice had been repeatedly
+given from the War Department that unless a company of two hundred and
+fifty emigrants could be organized, none would be removed. Such a company
+having failed to be organized in the fall of 1845, we were told that the
+Department had required the removing agent to refund the money he had
+received for the purpose of removing them. In the spring of the present
+year certain men were running from house to house among our people saying
+that the agent still held the money in his hands, and would remove all
+who wished to go, upon the opening of navigation. Directly after, notice
+was received from the Government that commissionerswere appointed, and
+that a Council would be held on a specified day to ascertain if the
+requisite number wished to emigrate. When this became known it was
+immediately reported that the removing agent (Dr. Hogeboom) had already
+contracted for their passage--that the steamboat would take them in at
+Cattarangus Creek on a certain day, and it was not necessary for them to
+wait for the action of the Government. The agent soon after appeared,
+accompanied by two individuals from Buffalo, who, as we were afterward
+credibly informed, instigated him to practice this fraud upon the
+Government, and endeavored, by representing the country west as a
+paradise, to induce a large company to go on board their boat. Some of
+our friends, who had not disposed of their effects, were told not to mind
+their stuff, for the country to which they were going was so rich, and
+they would prosper there so rapidly that they would never feel the loss
+of it, and one family were hurried away from their table, leaving
+everything upon it just as it was when they arose from their dinner. We
+have reason to believe that the whole company, except a few leaders, most
+of whom are now dead, were deluded by these flattering but fate
+representations of those white men, and inasmuch as the removing Agent
+appeared on the ground, with the money in his hand, these simple people
+were made to discredit the orders received from the department, relative
+to the council of the 2d of June. Justice would indeed seem to require
+that these white men should repair the injury they have done to us, and
+not to us alone, but also to the government.
+
+But we have no power to compel them. Our only resource is to appeal to
+the government in behalf of our afflicted and desponding brethren, who
+are perishing under the accumulated pressure of disappointed expectations
+--grief for the dead and the heavy hand of disease upon their own persons.
+We trust our appeal will not be disregarded. We think it is the dictate
+of humanity, and we confidently believe that the voice of the whole
+country would approve the course of the President if he would grant the
+needed relief. We would beg leave further to request the President to
+make known to us through our friend Philip E. Thomas, of Baltimore, who
+will present our memorial, the decision he may make in regard to it.
+
+And your memorialists, as in duty bound, will ever pray, &c.
+
+Cattaraugus Reservation, Dec. 16, 1846.
+
+(Signed)
+
+James X Shongo, Moses Stephenson, N. T. Strong, William X Jones, Robert X
+Gordon, Zachariah X L. Jimison, Daniel Two Guns, Samuel X Wilson, William
+X Johnson, John X Bolden, Benjamin Williams, George Lindsay, John
+Kennedy, Jr., George Greenblanket, David X Snow, John Huson, Solomon W.
+Lane, Jim X Junius, Henry Two Guns, Little X John, John Talor, John X
+Luke, Governor X Blacksnake, Israel X Jimison, William X Patterson, John
+X Greenblanket, S. M. Patterson, Moses X Pierce, James X Stephenson,
+Abraham X John, Jabez X Stephenson, Peter X White, Charles Graybeard.
+
+In reply to this memorial, the following answer was received from the
+Indian Bureau at Washington:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, OFFICE OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, Feb. 23rd, 1847.
+
+SIR:--The application for the removal of the Seneca Indians back to New
+York who emigrated West from there last summer has been duly considered.
+With every disposition to gratify the wishes of the Society of Friends,
+and of the New York Indians, so far as it could properly be done, I have
+to inform you that the Executive Department of the Government has neither
+the authority nor the means to justify a compliance with their desire. In
+this particular Congress only could authorize the measure and provide the
+requisite means for the expense it would invalue.
+
+Respectfully your ob't servant, W. MEDILL.
+
+To PHILIP E. THOMAS, Esq., Baltimore, Md.
+
+When the chiefs were made acquainted with the result of this application,
+they addressed the following communication to the joint committee of
+Friends:
+
+CATTARAUGUS RESERVATION, March 22nd, 1847.
+
+RESPECTED FRIEND, PHILIP E. THOMAS:--Permit us to address you a few
+lines, and, through you, the committee of the four-yearly meetings of the
+Society of Friends, in reference to the condition of our suffering
+friends and brethren still remaining in the country west of the
+Mississippi. We suppose the committee are already thoroughly acquainted
+with the means used to decoy those Indians off, in contravention of the
+instructions of the Government to the removing agent. They were flattered
+with prospects of almost unbounded prosperity. The country was described
+as a paradise; and they were told that there friends here, who might now
+refuse to accompany them, would soon be compelled to follow, and that it
+would be better to go now and get well started in their improvements,
+&c., as soon as possible. But, when they reached that country, instead of
+being a paradise, they found it rather a land of desolation, disease and
+death, and a large proportion of them are now lying beneath the turf. The
+survivors are discouraged and broken-hearted, in addition to the
+sufferings from the disease which has swept off their companions, and
+they are anxious to return. Application has been made to the Government
+in their behalf, without obtaining relief, and, from a recent letter from
+Dr. Wilson, we learn that a similar application to the Legislature of
+this State is likely to fail. We cannot make any appropriation from our
+national funds until the meeting of our national council, as a law has
+been passed which would forbid it, but if we delay till that meeting it
+will expose our friends to the horrors of the sickly season once more,
+and doubtless many more of them will perish in consequence. Under these
+circumstances we see no other resource but to look again to those kind-
+hearted friends who have done somuch already to relieve us in our
+distresses. Our obligations are already very great, and we cherish deep
+feelings of gratitude for past favors. We would not willingly burden your
+kindness now were it not for the peculiarly difficult and perplexing
+condition of things just at the present time. But we feel that humanity
+towards our own people demands of us to make this application in their
+behalf, as well as of ourselves, for we will always cherish a lively
+remembrance of your kindness.
+
+Wishing you the reward of the benevolent in the great day, we subscribe
+ourselves your obliged and sincere friends,
+
+In presence of Asher Wright,
+
+HENRY TWO GUNS,
+
+WILLIAM KROUSE,
+
+GEORGE X BUTTON,
+
+JOHN X GREENBLANKET,
+
+ABRAHAM X JOHN,
+
+JAMES SPRING,
+
+DANIEL TWO GUNS.
+
+Notwithstanding the fact that these Indians were carried away without the
+knowledge or sanction of the Government, and consequently without the
+requisite preparation for their comfort and subsistence in the western
+country, yet the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, as soon as he was
+apprised of the movements of Dr. Hogeboom, anxious to afford them all the
+relief in his power, promptly ordered arrangements for their reception at
+the place of their destination, as will be seen by the following
+documents in the War Department, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, OFFICE OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, June 10th, 1846.
+
+SIR:--Information has been receently received at this office that A.
+Hogeboom had started for St. Louis with a party of New York Indians, in
+number about two hundred. This act of starting with a less number than
+two hundred and fifty, in connection with the recent action of this
+office, looking to a suspension of the emigration for a time, was wholly
+unauthorized, and of course unexpected, but as the party are without the
+reach of the Department, measures must be taken to subsist them. I have
+therefore to request that you will give directions to the Osage sub-agent
+to invite proposals as contemplated in my instructions to you of the 14th
+November, 1845, to which you are referred.
+
+Respectfully, &c.,
+
+W. MEDILL.
+
+To T. W. HARVEY, Esq., Supt. Indian Affairs, St. Louis, Mo.
+
+Notwithstanding this humane effort on the part of the Commissioner to
+make provision for the reception and accommodation of these emigrants, it
+appears that from the hardships and exposures to which they were
+subjected, and from the unwholesome nature of the climate one-third of
+them perished within six months after their arrival at their intended
+residence. When their distressed situation was made known to the
+Department, the Commissioner immediately addressed a letter to the Indian
+Agent at St. Louis, calling his attention to their case, from which the
+following is extracted:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, OFFICE INDIAN AFFAIRS. October, 29, 1846.
+
+SIR:--I transmit herewith a copy of a letter just received from James
+Cusick, one of the party of the New York Indians removed west last summer
+by Dr. Hogeboom, from which it appears that there has been much sickness
+and mortality among those Indians, and that they are in a distressed
+situation. Mr. Cusick's letter, supported by Capt. Burbanks, is
+calculated to excite much anxiety on account of these Indians. They were
+removed contrary to the instructions and expectations of the Department
+at the time, and their having gone west was not known until they were
+some distance on the route. There was, consequently, no opportunity for
+making the requisite preliminary arrangement for their comfort and
+welfare on their arrival west. After giving you the instructions of June
+10th for their subsistance, such had to be left to the judgment and views
+of duty, under these circumstances, of yourself and the Osage Sub. Agent,
+under whose immediate supervision they came, in regard to what further
+required to be done for them. In my letter of the 30th ultimo your
+attention was especially called to their situation, and no doubt is
+entertained, that your answers to that communication will show you have
+done, or caused to be done, all that could be done, under the
+circumstances, for their relief. Should the amount now remitted not be
+sufficient to cover the expenses of what you have already done, or what
+it may be, in your judgment, further requisite to do for them in addition
+to their subsistance, for which there is a special appropriation, you
+will please report promptly accordingly, and the necessary funds will be
+furnished. Funds will also be remitted on account of their subsistance
+when this office is informed that they are needed.
+
+Respectfully,
+
+W. MEDILL.
+
+THOMAS H. HARVEY, Esq., St. Louis, Mo.
+
+
+
+
+MISSIONARY WORK.
+
+A RECORD OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH IN THE TUSCARORA RESERVATION
+OBTAINED BY INQUIRY.
+
+The church in the Tuscarora Reservation was organized in the year 1805,
+embracing six members only, under the care of the New York Missionary
+Society.
+
+Rev. Elkanah Holmes, first missionary, from 1805 to 1808.
+
+Members of the Church--Sacarissa, a Sachem, and his wife; Nicholas
+Cusick, an interpreter, and his wife; Apollas Jacobs and Mary Pempleton.
+
+Rev. Mr. Gray, second missionary, from 1808 to 1813. At first the Indians
+converted their Council House into one for public worship, and also for
+school operations, and in time they built a convenient chapel, which was
+painted red, and was destined to share the same fate as their dwelling
+houses at the hands of the British Indians in the war of 1812.
+
+It was on December 20th, 1813, when they were burned to the ground, in
+consequence of which the operations of the mission were suspended from
+1813 to 1817, when Rev. James C. Crane took charge of the mission until
+the end of the year 1826.
+
+In the year 1821 this mission was transferred from the New York
+Missionary Society to the United Foreign Mission Society.
+
+Rev. Joseph B. Lane, the fourth missionary, took charge of the mission
+from January 3, 1827, to June 8, 1827.
+
+Rev. John Elliot, the fifth missionary, also labored among these Indians
+from June 22, 1827, to May 7, 1833, when he left the mission by his own
+request, being dismissed from the service of the American Board of
+Commissioners for Foreign Missions, to which this mission was transferred
+from the United Foreign Mission Society in the year 1826. Rev. Joel Wood
+also labored in this mission from October 15, 1833, to October, 1834.
+
+Rev. William Williams also labored among them from October 26, 1834, to
+August 29, 1837.
+
+Mr. Gilbert Rockwood, arrived and took charge of the station as teacher
+and overseer of the affairs of the church, and was afterwards ordained to
+the ministry.
+
+Before he was ordained he would summon to his aid in the discipline and
+ordinances of the Church, at different times, Brother Asher Wright, and
+Mr. Bliss, of Cattaraugus Reservation, and Rev. J. Elliott, of Youngstown.
+
+Ordained at Tuscarora Mission, July 3rd, 1839, Rev. Gilbert Rockwood as a
+missionary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions,
+to labor among the Tuscarora Indians. Invocation and reading of the
+Scriptures were performed by Rev. Lemuel Clark, of Lewiston; first prayer
+by Rev. John Elliott, of Youngstown, and former missionary at Tuscarora;
+sermon by Rev. E. Parmely, of Jamestown, consecrating prayer by the Rev.
+Asher Wright, of the Seneca mission; charge by Rev. Asher Bliss, of
+Cattaraugus mission; right hand of fellowship by Rev. A. Wright; address
+to the Church and people by Rev. John Elliott; concluding prayer by Rev.
+Elisha B. Sherrod, of Wilson; benediction by Rev. Gilbert Rockwood.
+
+The exercises were listened to by an attentive audience of Indians, who
+probably never witnessed anything of the kind before. The ceremonies were
+solemn and interesting to the people to the very close, although
+considerably protracted by passing through an interpreter.
+
+What added to the Interest of the occasion was the ordination of three
+_native_ members as Deacons of the Church, at the close of the
+ordination. The Church has received a refreshing from on high during the
+last winter, which has added a number of members, and is still in a
+peaceful and prosperous condition.
+
+Rev. G. Rockwood was a faithful missionary; he went in and out among the
+Indians, visited in their homes, and talked with them in their inroads,
+and was a great advocate in the cause of Temperance. He was a powerful
+preacher, and at times had great revivals: for instance, in the year
+1852, when I was first awakened to concern for my soul's welfare. It was
+then my soul was first filled with rejoicing in my newly found Saviour;
+it was then I first poured out my soul in fervent prayer.
+
+On the 7th day of March, 1852, was held a communion season, and on that
+memorable day forty converts were admitted to the full communion of the
+Church. Old men of seventy winters and youths of fourteen bowed down
+together to receive the ordinance of baptism, of whom I was one of the
+number, at the age of fifteen. It was a scene that angels might rejoice
+to behold. The whole number admitted to the Church that winter were fifty
+converts.
+
+Rev. G. Rockwood finished his work among the Tuscarora Indians on the
+first day of January, 1861. Thus it is claimed that Rev. G. Rockwood
+spent the longest term of ministerial service at one installation in
+Niagara county but one, which was Rev. W. C. Wisner of the First
+Presbyterian church, Lockport, N.Y.
+
+The American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, when they
+withdrew Rev. Rockwood from this mission, also withdrew their supplies,
+when the Tuscaroras were thrown upon their own resources. In October
+following the church appointed as delegates Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, a
+Sachem; Dea. Samuel Jacobs and Elias Johnson, interpreter, to attend a
+meeting of the Niagara Presbytery at Yates, to make an application that
+this mission might come under the care of that body, which was granted
+them on October 29, 1861. The Presbytery appointed as Committee on
+Supplies, Rev. Joshua Cook, of Lewiston, and H. E. Niles. In January,
+1862, Rev. Charles A. Keeler was sent to take charge of the mission, who
+labored among them until 1863, after which the preaching was supplied by
+some of the members of the church, and more particularly by Dea. S.
+Jacobs.
+
+Rev. George Ford supplied the Church with preaching every fourth Sabbath,
+and was succeeded by Rev. Wm. Hall, and he by Rev. W. P. Barker, who
+began his labors among us in Oct., 1877, and was formerly a missionary in
+India.
+
+A letter by James Cusick, concerning the Baptist mission at Tuscarora, to
+wit:
+
+"In 1836, a portion of the Tuscarora Nation thought it expedient to
+become Baptists, according to the dictates of their own conscience and
+free enjoyment of their religion in this Republican government.
+Consequently a Baptist church was built and organized among the
+Tuscaroras, and they were called in council with several Baptist churches
+in this county. In 1838 they were admitted into the Niagara Baptist
+Association at Shalby.
+
+"In a ministerial council June 14th, 1838, Mr. James Cusick was examined
+touching his Christian experience, and called to preach the Gospel by
+Providence and the council. They decided on that question, and gave him
+ordination as a native preacher, deciding that he was well qualified by a
+knowledge of theology; and now he has labored among several tribes of the
+Six Nations."
+
+The first Baptist Church at Tuscarora was broken up in the spring of
+1846, on account of an emigration to the Indian Territory, under the
+influence of Rev. James Cusick, the party being composed mostly of the
+members of that Church, which caused its overthrow. The next year, after
+about one-third of the emigration party had died in the Indian Territory,
+the remainder came home among the Tuscaroras, but Rev. Mr. Cusick removed
+into Canada and labored among the Six Nations at Grand river.
+
+In the year 1860 Rev. James Cusick began his labors again among the
+Tuscaroras, in the town of Lewiston, having been invited here by James
+Johnson, with the view of reorganizing the former Baptist Church.
+
+On the fifteenth day of February, 1860, there was held a deliberative
+meeting at the house of James Johnson, Rev. James Cusick acting as
+moderator. There were present, William Green, of Grand River; James
+Johnson, Isaac N. Jack, Isaac Patterson, Joseph Williams, Adam Williams,
+Sr.
+
+The church was organized on March 21, 1860, at the house of James
+Johnson, Rev. James Cusick, Moderator, and Isaac N. Jack, Clerk.
+
+A council of delegates from Wilson and Ransomville was invited by the
+reorganized Baptist church to meet on the 26th day of April, 1860, for
+recognition, which duly met, Rev. William Sawyer, Chairman: James
+Bullock, Clerk. Introductory prayer by Rev. L. C. Pattengill: hand of
+fellowship by Rev. Wm. Sawyer; address by Rev. L. C. Pattengill,
+including prayer and benediction by Rev. Wm. Sawyer. The following
+delegates were present, to-wit:
+
+From Wilson--Rev. L. C. Pattengill, Dea. R. Robinson, Dea. A. Chapin.
+
+From Ransomville--Rev. Wm. Sawyer, Dea. G. Hopkins, Dea. J. Bullock.
+
+They were received into fellowship of the Niagara Baptist Association
+June 14, 1860, held at Akron, Erie county, N. Y. James Johnson, the first
+deacon, was chosen April 13, 1860.
+
+They finished an edifice of 30 x 40 feet, a convenient chapel, which was
+dedicated February 5, 1862. A sermon by Rev. L. C. Pattengill, prayer of
+dedication by Rev. Wm. Sawyer, report of building by J. C. Hopkins.
+
+Rev. James Cusick was to have been their first installed pastor, but in
+the year 1861 death took him to his long rest. He was a powerful
+preacher, and we had great revivals under his ministrations.
+
+Rev. Thomas Green, a native, was baptized Jan. 9th, 1861, and on the
+third day of Oct., 1863, was licensed to preach the Gospel of Christ, a
+helper for Rev. Nicholas Smith, and on Sept. 25th, 1867, was ordained to
+the ministry, and succeeded Rev. N. Smith as pastor of that Church, which
+office he faithfully filled, went in and out among them, with meek and
+humble spirit, ever faithful to his trust. He had the gift of natural
+oratory, and we had some powerful revivals under his preaching. It would
+seem to us that he was called away too soon, but the Omniscient Being
+knows best. God called him from his labors and trials in this vale of
+tears to weal in the pleasures of his presence and of his only Son,
+Jesus, of whom he had preached, and fought, as did Paul, the good fight
+of faith, and finished his course on Jan. 12, 1877, and has seen the
+crown of life which was lad up for him in Heaven.
+
+Rev. Franklin P Mt. Pleasant, a native, began to preach the Gospel in the
+spring of 1877, by the invitation of Rev. T. Green, and was licensed on
+the 23d day of October, 1879, and has been their constant preacher.
+
+
+
+
+SCHOOL OPERATIONS.
+
+For the earlier part of the history of school operations among the
+Tuscarora Indians, I can do no better than to give the report of Rev.
+John Elliot to the Secretary of War, in the year 1832, viz.:
+
+"_To the Secretary of War_:
+
+"This will show the operations of the schools from their organization in
+1805, to September 30, 1832.
+
+"The first school among the Tuscaroras was taught by Rev. Mr. Homes, the
+first missionary. This, according to the best information, was in 1805.
+What amount has been expended, either from the fund of the society or by
+the Government, to sustain its operation, I am wholly unable to state.
+The Indians converted their Council House into one for public worship,
+and also one for school operations, until 1828, when, with a little
+assistance from abroad, they completed a convenient chapel, 28 x 38 feet,
+for publicworship. In 1831 they raised and finished a frame school house
+24 x 20 feet, at an expense probably of $200. This sum, with the exception
+of $8, the Indians obtained by contributions among themselves.
+
+"We have but one teacher, whose whole time is engrossed in the concerns
+of the school (Mrs. Elliot and myself are occasionally employed). Her
+name is Elizabeth Stone, and the compensation she receives is only the
+means of support, the same that we receive. Ninety scholars have, to our
+certain knowledge, entered the school since its commencement. One of the
+number is the principal Chief and stated interpreter, who can communicate
+in three languages. Eighty of this number have attended the school within
+the last six years. Sixty have left with the prospect, in most cases, of
+exerting a happy influence. This influence is the result of a belief in,
+and adherence to, the doctrines of the Gospel. Since they have embraced
+the principals of Christianity in full their progress in industry and
+temperance has been strikingly visible and rapid. But few of the number
+now sip ardent spirits--not more than one in twenty.
+
+"The young men are enterprising; some have large, convenient barns and
+comfortable dwellings, fine fields of wheat, corn, oats, &c.; others are
+beginning to plant orchards; they now depend on the cultivation of their
+lands for a livelihood."
+
+The second teacher who taught the school among the Tuscaroras was the son
+of Rev. Mr. Gray, the second missionary, in the years from 1808 to 1813,
+and was then followed by a young man by the name of Mr. Youngs. These
+were the first three teachers who broke in and shed the light of
+education upon the dark minds of our forefathers. The schools were
+supported by the missionary societies in the same order as in the
+different transfers that were made concerning the support of the
+missionaries. In the year 1858 was the last transfer made from the
+American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Mission to the State of New
+York, by whom they are now sustained. There were many changes made in the
+teachers, all of whose names, with dates, in the order in which they
+came, I am not able to record; but I will record such names as I have
+been able to obtain which came under the appointment of missionary
+teachers, to wit:
+
+Miss Elizabeth Stone, from 1831 to 1837.
+
+Miss Lucia G. Smith, 1836.
+
+Miss Hannah T. Whitcomb, from Oct. 5, 1839, to Aug. 25, 1849.
+
+Miss Mary J. T. Thayer, from 1849 to 1854.
+
+Miss Cinderella Britto, from 1853 to 1854.
+
+Miss Abigail Peck, from 1853 to 1858.
+
+Assistant teachers not having regular appointment.
+
+Miss Emily Parker, 1831.
+
+Miss Burt, 1837.
+
+Miss Nancy Wood, 1856.
+
+Miss Maria Colton, 1857.
+
+Miss Eleanor B. Lyon, 1857.
+
+Under the New York State supervision:
+
+Miss Abigail Peck, from 1853 to 1858.
+
+Miss Mary A. Smith, native.
+
+Miss Robinson.
+
+Miss Emily Chew, native.
+
+Miss Pomeroy.
+
+Miss Margaret Eddy.
+
+Miss Helen Gansvort, native.
+
+Mr. William Sage, seven winters.
+
+Mr. Philip T. Johnson, native.
+
+In the year of 1850 there was another school house built by the natives
+under the proposition of Miss Mary J. F. Thayer. I have here a brief
+history of her labors among the Tuscaroras, from her own writings, which
+is very interesting, to wit:
+
+MISS M. J. F. THAYER'S LABORS AS A MISSIONARY TEACHER.
+
+At the invitation of Rev. G. Rockwood (then the ordained missionary at
+Tuscarora) Miss M. J. F. Thayer commenced her labors among the Tuscaroras
+as teacher on April 30, 1849, in the old school-house opposite Mr.
+Rockwood's house, receiving from the American Board one dollar and fifty
+cents per week, besides her board. There were but few scholars, and these
+were very irregular in their attendance. Miss T. visited the parents and
+tried to get them interested. She finally came to the conclusion that
+time and money were thrown away on that little _day_ school, and
+drew up a paper, which was read to the Tuscaroras at their New Year's
+feast, January 1, 1850, in which she detailed her plans and wishes,
+asking their aid in executing them. Their response was cordial and
+hearty. They resolved to build a new school-house; the site was selected
+on a corner near Isaac Miller's, and the people, as one man, went to work
+with great alacrity, under the leadership of one of their chiefs, Wm. Mt.
+Pleasant, and had, before the next New Year's, a snug house, 18 x 24
+feet, well finished, furnished with two stoves, and a large pile of wood
+prepared. Miss Thayer commenced teaching at the new station (which she
+was pleased to call Mt. Hope) Jan. 14, 1851, having forty scholars the
+first day. On Saturday, Jan. 12, before school began, a church meeting
+was held at the new station. There were thirty persons present, and they
+voted to hold prayer meetings there every Wednesday evening.
+
+Feb. 20 Miss T. wrote--"Fifty is the average attendance at school.
+Scholars happy and bright and very eager to learn Nearly every one has
+bought a new spelling book. The prayer meetings are well attended;
+Sabbath evenings there are fifty present, Wednesdays, thirty. They
+conduct these meetings without their pastor, usually. Christians are
+being revived; there is an increasing spirit of prayer: the women have
+begun to pray; we had a precious meeting last Sabbath evening."
+
+In March there was a great deal of sickness (typhoid fever), of which
+several died. The school was interrupted for a few days.
+
+May 2, she wrote--"My school flourishes. It is difficult to say which
+seem the happier, the children or their teacher. I have five little girls
+boarding with me. As the 'boarding school fund' is exhausted, I am
+obliged to meet all the expenses from my own allowance" It might be
+stated that Miss Thayer never received a "formal appointment" from the
+American Board, because her health was so poor, but she was
+_employed_ and _paid_ by them. After she went to the new
+schoolhouse they paid her one hundred and fifty dollars a year, and she
+found everything. By "boarding school fund" is meant money received by
+Miss Thayer from friends of hers who were interested in her work and sent
+her, from time to time, small sums of money and sometimes articles of
+food and clothing for the children, _deficiencies_ she met from her
+own allowance.
+
+Thus the work went on. Several children were anxious to become inmates of
+the teacher's family. Celia Green, Elizabeth Cusick, Ann and Mary Henry,
+Susan Patterson and Sarah Mt. Pleasant were the favored ones.
+
+Sept. 10, 1851, Miss T. wrote--"My school is small now, owing to the
+prevalence of the measles. The little girls living with me being
+attacked, their mothers have taken them home." Under the same date adds--
+"Two weeks ago I passed a sleepless night, contemplating the deplorable
+condition of the young people here, agonizing and with tears wrestling in
+prayer for them. Last week I learned that three young women had decided
+to forsake there evil ways, repenting of their sins, and looking to Jesus
+for salvation. Two of them came forward at the church meeting last
+Saturday, and offered themselves as candidates for admission to the
+church. One of the young women stayed with me last Sabbath night (this
+was Louisa Henry). She gave evidence of a change of heart. May many more
+be led to a saving knowledge of the truth."
+
+Writing again to her father, (these extracts are all from letters to her
+father), Dec. 8, 1851--"It would do your heart good to look in upon my
+little family--my little ones so confiding affectionate and happy. My
+heart has again been made glad by the conversion of one of my older
+pupils, an interesting youth of seventeen. He and the two young women
+mentioned in a former letter united with the Church at our last
+communion. I wept for joy at these tokens of the presence of a prayer-
+answering God."
+
+Jan. 1, 1852--"Attended the New Years' feast to-day. Told the people of
+my plans for building an addition to the schoolhouse, so that I might
+take more children into my family. They adjourned to the Council-house,
+and will talk over my propositions there this evening."
+
+Jan. 3--"The church meeting to-day was very interesting. Five young women
+offered themselves to the church, were examined and accepted. Most of
+them state that they found the Saviour last summer. As near as I can
+learn from their statements it was at the very time when I was so
+exercised in their behalf. For some time I agonized in prayer; then I
+became calm, and felt assured that my prayer was heard and would be
+granted."
+
+Jan. 4, Sabbath--"An interesting day. Never saw so many of the Tuscaroras
+present at a religious meeting. Some one who counted them stated that
+there were nearly one hundred and forty, and all seemed serious and
+attentive. Bro. B.'s discourse in the forenoon was full of instruction to
+the young converts. In the afternoon the young women examined yesterday
+were received into the Church. Eight children were baptized, and the
+sacrament administered. In the evening I repaired to the council house,
+where the sacrament was again administered, on account of an aged sister,
+nearly one hundred years old, too infirm to go to the meeting-house."
+
+Jan. 5--"Commenced school to-day with twenty-five scholars; have seven
+girls boarding with me; my little house is too small, but I hope soon to
+enlarge it, as the Tuscaroras give encouragement that they will take hold
+and help about building. They hold another council to-day to make
+necessary arrangements."
+
+Jan. 6--"A committee of chiefs called on me this morning, and advised me
+to accept the thirty dollars offered by Mr. E. S. Ely, of Checktowga; it
+would be needed to purchase the fine lumber, which they can buy cheaper
+in Canada than in the States. To-morrow they will turn out with their
+teams and draw logs to mill for the coarse lumber, and next week they
+will go to Canada for the fine lumber, which Mr. Mt. Pleasant will
+prepare. When all things are ready they will frame the building, enclose
+and shingle it."
+
+Jan. 12, 1852--"Louisa Henry, who seems to be in the last stages of
+consumption, has been with me since New Year's; is failing fast; told me
+when she came that she expected to die soon, and wished to spend her last
+days with me; does not fear death; takes great delight in prayer and
+reading the Bible; the 23d Psalm is her favorite portion."
+
+Jan. 14--"At an inquiry meeting this evening, as Bro. R was absent, I
+conversed with those who came; explained the parable of 'The Prodigal
+Son' making personal application; three young persons requested prayers;
+one was only 'almost persuaded;' the other two expressed their
+determination to begin a new life at once; invited Elias Johnson and his
+brother James to stop after school for a season of prayer: they were both
+rejoicing in their newly-found Savior, and poured out their souls in
+fervent prayer; my soul is filled with joy."
+
+Jan. 19--"Feel quite worn out; thought Louisa dying; watched with her all
+night; sent for her aunt, who will watch with her to-night."
+
+Jan. 21--"Bro. R. called; decided to send the little ones home; close
+school for a few days, and take Louisa to the mission house."
+
+Jan. 25--"Louisa's aunt took her home at the instance of the Chiefs, who
+did not like to have the school interrupted."
+
+Jan. 26--"Louisa died to-day; her sufferings are over; her happy spirit
+is doubtless with the ransomed above."
+
+Jan. 27--"Attended L's funeral."
+
+Jan. 28--"Returned to the school-house, where we had an inquiry meeting
+in the evening; about fifty present, of whom one-half seem seriously
+inquiring the way to be saved; I conversed with the females; found five
+indulging a hope; others greatly distressed on account of their sins.
+Within a few months there have been twenty hopeful conversions."
+
+Jan. 31--"Met the sisters according to appointment; there was some
+earnest wrestling with God; had conversation with one who, for many
+years, has been a backslider, but thinks she has now returned to God."
+
+Feb. 4--"At the inquiry meeting many were present; several indulging a
+hope; deep feeling, but no excitement."
+
+Feb. 7--"At the church meeting thirty-two candidates were examined for
+admission to the church."
+
+Feb. 8--"Sabbath; ninety Tuscaroras in attendance upon divine services; a
+most solemn assembly."
+
+Feb. 12--"An interesting young converts' prayer-meeting."
+
+Feb. 13--"My children all have the whooping cough."
+
+Feb. 14--"Detained from church meeting by the sick children."
+
+Feb. 15--"Sabbath; detained from church; though I am much confined by
+home duties, the work of the Lord prospers; Bro. R. is very faithful, and
+the Lord crowns his labors with great success. He now numbers fifty new
+converts; has united several couple in lawful marriage; many drunkards
+seem to be reclaimed; twelve of my Bible-class have found the Savior; so
+have three of the little girls that have boarded with me and ten of my
+day scholars."
+
+Feb. 17--"I was afraid that I should have to stop teaching and devote
+myself to the care of my sick children, but their friends took them home
+last Saturday; it seemed lonesome without them, but little Elizabeth, who
+seems to love me with all her little heart, cried so much to come back
+that they could not keep her at home; she is with me now and seems quite
+happy. Have written to Secretary Treat, urging that Bro. Rockwaod be
+permitted to remain here; none could be more active and efficient than he
+now is."
+
+Feb. 24--"So many children have the whooping-cough that but few attend
+school. I, also, have a most troublesome cough, and find it difficult to
+teach; should have to give up if my school was very large, as I have fits
+of coughing just like the whooping-cough."
+
+March 4--"My brother in Buffalo sent the sash and doors for my boarding-
+house; the building is going forward. Miss Howe writes that she will come
+to my assistance if I need her."
+
+March 7--"Communion season--forty additions to the church. The old man of
+seventy and the youth of fourteen bowed together to receive the ordinance
+of baptism. A scene that angels might rejoice to behold."
+
+March 8--"Have written to Miss Howe to come on, my health being very
+poor. Have obtained leave of absence for a few weeks, or months, if I
+should find it expedient to go on to New York to Dr. Nichols' Medical
+Institute."
+
+March 11--"Several calls from my Tuscarora friends. They are very loth to
+have me leave, even for a short time, and it is a sore trial for me."
+
+March 13--"Arrived at my father's in Lancaster, N. Y."
+
+March 18--"Wrote in my journal, 'still at my father's,' but thinking
+continually of my dear Tuscarora children. May I soon be restored to
+them, invigorated both in body and mind."
+
+March 23--"Quite unwell; cannot tell how long I shall have to stay away
+from my school."
+
+April 26--"Left Lancaster for Tuscarora."
+
+Mt. Hope, Tuscarora, April 28, 1852--"Once more in my own sweet home,
+greeted by the sparkling eyes and smiling faces of my dear children.
+Found Miss Howe nearly worn out and glad to be relieved.
+
+"There have been several deaths during my absence--some among my scholars.
+Several calls this evening from my adopted people, who seem so glad to
+see me."
+
+April 29--"Resumed my duties in the school-room."
+
+May 1--Sabbath--"Rising early went on foot with my little girls, though
+the road was muddy, reached the meeting house before 9 A. M., in time for
+Sunday-school, sacrament in the afternoon. Five received into the church
+--three of them my scholars. So thankful to be once more with my beloved
+Tuscaroras."
+
+May 18--"Have had to relinquish my school again to Miss Howe, I am too
+feeble for school duties."
+
+June 22--"A week ago yesterday almost the whole nation turned out to help
+at the "raising." The excitement of the day was so great that I could
+sleep but little that night; so happy! The Lord be praised. How mountains
+of difficulties have vanished. The Tuscaroras are doing nobly; but,
+besides their work, to finish and furnish all will require about four
+hundred dollars; this will take all my funds, but when I need more, I
+know that the Lord will provide. Have already expended nearly one hundred
+dollars, yet, I trust there will be no lack. Donations are coming in from
+various quarters."
+
+July 23--"How different my labors this summer from those of last winter.
+Unable to teach, have given my school to another; nor, am I able to visit
+much among the people. Occupy my time chiefly in taking care of my little
+girls, teaching them to sew, and preparing bedding for my contemplated
+boarding school; thankful that I may do a little, though I long to do
+more."
+
+Sept. 3--"Being unable to teach, and thinking that I might do more good
+here, if ever, to study medicine, having consulted my friends and Mr.
+Treat, I shall go to Philadelphia to attend medical lectures. Have bade
+adieu to my humble home, not to return before next February."
+
+Miss Thayer returned from Philadelphia in February, 1853. Miss Mary
+Walker had taught the school during her absence. Shortly after her return
+to Mt. Hope, Miss Abigail Peck and Miss Cinderella Britto arrived, the
+former to teach school, the latter to assist in housework, Miss Thayer to
+have general supervision as matron of the boarding school. The American
+Board doubled their appropriation, so that each one of the ladies were to
+receive one hundred dollars a year, and find their own board. Miss Thayer
+taking it upon herself to meet the other expenses of the school. Timely
+donations in money were received from Philadelphia, Brooklyn and New
+York, and various small sums; also boxes of clothing and some provision
+from friends in neighboring towns.
+
+March 23--Miss Thayer writes: "Have received one hundred dollars from the
+Sunday school in Mr. Barnes' church, for my building; have hired two
+carpenters to do the inside work, it having been framed, shingled,
+enclosed, and most of the lathing done, by the Tuscaroras. My health is
+failing again and my mind much racked with planning, as my associates
+each want a separate room for their own private use, I have been obliged
+to vary from my original plan so as to secure pleasant rooms for them
+with chimneys for stoves."
+
+May 7--"The building goes forward rather slowly, and my associates are
+becoming somewhat impatient on account of the delay; yet we shall have a
+better finished and more commodious house than I had at first planned.
+Though very much worn both in body and mind, I do not regret having
+undertaken the work. Am more and more convinced that the only hope for
+the moral and physical well-being of the Tuscaroras is to train up the
+children in the way they should go. The work is begun, and the Lord is
+able to carry it forward, either with or without me."
+
+Miss Thayer's health continued poor and she took a vacation of four
+weeks, in the summer, leaving her associates in charge. Then wrote to Mr.
+Treat that she should be obliged to give up the management of financial
+affairs, and asking them to assume the responsibility.
+
+To confer with him on the subject, Mr. Treat requested Mr. Rockwood, Miss
+Thayer and her associates to meet him in Buffalo, where he would stop on
+his way to the meeting of the American Board at Cincinnati. The result of
+the conference: The boarding school was transferred to the immediate care
+of the Board, with Mr. Rockwood as Superintendent; the ladies to retain
+their respective positions--teacher, house-keeper and matron. From this
+time Miss Thayer felt greatly fettered, and the impression grew upon her
+that her presence was not desired at Mt. Hope; that her usefulness there
+was at an end. Long and prayerfully did she weigh the matter, and at
+last, though it nearly broke her heart, she asked to be dismissed from
+the field. Her request was granted, and Miss Thayer closed her labors at
+Mt. Hope, December 31, 1853, _and longed to die_. It was the saddest
+day of her life, the bitterest trial she ever experienced, this giving up
+all her hopes of usefulness among her beloved Tuscaroras. She knew not
+whither to go; could not tell the people what she had done.
+
+Samuel Jacobs was going to Cattaraugus, and Miss Thayer went with him,
+hoping the Lord would give her work to do there. Engaged temporarily in
+teaching, was there until the latter part of July, 1854; in August
+applied to the Presbyterian Board for an appointment as missionary
+teacher for one of their schools among the Southwestern Indians, which
+was granted, and she was sent to the Chickasaws, in the Indian Territory;
+arrived there in November, 1854; labored among the Chickasaws, Creeks and
+Choctaws until September, 1865, when again broken down in health, she
+reluctantly gave up the work of a missionary teacher, and returned to her
+father's house in Bristol, Wis., accompanied by her husband, (Theodore
+Jones), and her three young children (two sons and a daughter). She has
+since resided in Bristol, Wis., on the farm given to her by her father
+and brothers, a quiet, pleasant home. Her children are growing up in the
+fear of the Lord, having all of them, five years ago, (in April, 1873),
+united with the Congregational church in Bristol. Although she has not
+the means to give them a liberal education, she hopes that they will be
+useful workers in the Lord's vineyard.
+
+Mrs. Jones often thinks of her beloved Tuscaroras, and would gladly visit
+them if it were not for the expense of such a journey.
+
+Mrs. Jones has culled the material for the foregoing pages from numerous
+letters written to her father, from Tuscarora, and also made extracts
+from her private journal, kept whilst at Tuscarora, and she gives Elias
+Johnson leave to embody such portions of it in his history of the
+Tuscaroras as shall best suit his purpose. She sends herewith Mr. Treat's
+reply to her request to be released from the work at Mt. Hope; also a
+letter written by the Tuscarora chiefs, representing her departure from
+their people."
+
+"MRS. MARY J. E, JONES,
+
+"February 22, 1878.
+
+"Bristol, Wis."
+
+To ELIAS JOHNSON, Tuscarora.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+TEMPERANCE SOCIETY.
+
+About the year 1800, a new religion was introduced among the Six Nations,
+who alleged to have received a revelation from the Great Spirit, with a
+commission to preach to them the new doctrine in which he was instructed.
+
+This revelation was received in circumstances so remarkable and the
+precepts which he sought to inculcate, contained in themselves such
+evidences of wisdom and beneficence, that he was universally received
+among them, not only as a wise and good man, but as one commissioned by
+the Great Spirit to become their religious teacher, by the name of _Ga-
+ne-o-di-yo_, or "Handsomelake." This new religion, as it has ever since
+been called, with all the ancient and new doctrines, was also taught,
+strenuously, the doctrine of Temperance, which seemed to be the main and
+ultimate object of his mission, and upon which he chiefly used his
+influence and eloquence through the remainder of his life. He went from
+village to village, among the several nations of the Iroquois, and
+continuing his visits from year to year, preaching the new doctrine with
+remarkable effect; many abandoned their dissolute habits and became sober
+and moral men.
+
+The wholesome doctrine of sobriety was not preached in vain, even among
+the Tuscaroras; nevertheless, they did not embrace the ancient and the
+new faith, nor its ceremonies, but the preaching of this singular person.
+The influence of his eloquence, with which he enforced the doctrine of
+temperance, had the effect of forming a temperance society, which was
+kept up a number of years, by holding meetings and by lectures given by
+the leading men of the nation, until the year 1830, when a regular
+temperance society was organized, which was based on a written
+constitution; and in the year 1832 there was a general temperance society
+formed at the Cattaraugus Reservation, embracing all the, then, different
+Seneca Reservations; and in the year 1833 the Tuscaroras reorganized so
+as to be connected with the Seneca temperance society, organized at
+Cattaraugus. I found the following articles in the records of the
+Tuscarora temperance society, to-wit:
+
+"Temperance Society, formed among the Tuscaroras, February 19th, 1830,
+re-organized January 27th, 1833.
+
+"PREAMBLE.
+
+"Whereas, Present and past occurrences clearly prove that intemperance is
+a great and destructive evil; therefore,_Resolved_, That we, the
+chiefs and warriors of the Tuscarora Nation, will do all in our power to
+arrest its progress, both in this village and elsewhere."
+
+Experience has taught us that efforts to advance this good cause are not
+in vain, encouraged by what we have already effected, we have conceded to
+re-organize our society, which shall be named and governed as follows:--
+
+"CONSTITUTION.
+
+"Article 1. This society shall be denominated the Temperance Society
+auxiliary to the general Temperance Society formed at Cattaraugus, March
+1st, 1832, by our red brothers from five different Reservations.
+
+"Article 2. It shall embrace individuals of both sexes of men, women and
+children.
+
+"Article 3. We who sign our names to this constitution, solemnly pledge
+ourselves to abstain entirely from the use of intoxicating liquors, and
+persuade others in an affectionate, faithful manner to do the same, not
+suffering it to be used in our families, nor purchasing it for those in
+our employ.
+
+"Article 4. It shall be the duty of those who were appointed a committee
+by the general Temperance Society to visit the members of this Society
+individually, and enquire whether they adhere to or strictly obey the
+articles of the constitution, and converse with others on the subject of
+temperance, so far as practicable, and make a report of their doings to
+the Society.
+
+"Article 5. The officers of this Society shall be a President, Vice-
+President, Secretary and Treasurer. The duty of the President shall be as
+follows, viz: To open the meetings by calling the assembly to orders to
+appoint the time for meeting; to settle questions in any discussions made
+in the Society; to appoint the speakers. The duty of the Secretary shall
+be to minute the proceedings of every meeting, and read the report at the
+close of every meeting, and to keep in record the names of the members of
+the Society. The Treasurer shall keep in charge the revenues of the
+contributions, and attend to the lights."
+
+Names of the first officers of this Society:
+
+President--Nicholas Cusick.
+
+Vice-President--William Mt. Pleasant.
+
+Secretary and Treasurer--James N. Cusick.
+
+Names of Chiefs at that time:
+
+William Chew, William Printup,
+
+Jonathan Printup, Mathew Jack,
+
+John Mt. Pleasant, John Johnson,
+
+John Fox, George Printup,
+
+Isaa Miller.
+
+This united Temperance Society held a yearly convention on the different
+Reservations, alternately, for a number of years, but the interest in the
+convention gradually declined, until the convention was entirely given
+up. Afterwards they somewhat remodeled the constitution to suit their
+circumstances, and added the following article, viz:
+
+"In the temperance assemblies the following subjects are to be lectured
+on: Temperance, Industry, Education and Moral Reform."
+
+We have also a cornet band, which is connected with the temperance
+society, which enliven and cheer the meetings by the sweet strains of
+their music, and adds very much to the interest of each meeting. This
+band goes by the name of the "Tuscarora Temperance Cornet Band." It was
+organized in the year 1842, and has existed continually to the present
+time, in 1880.
+
+On the 11th day of November, 1844, there was a delegation sent here by
+the Tuscaroras, from Grand River, then Canada West, now Ontario, to
+connect themselves with our temperance society, which was granted them,
+and the following delegates were admitted, viz: William Green, a Sachem;
+David Hill, Jacob Hill, Rev. Nicholas Smith and Thomas Thomas.
+
+This society was afterwards invited to hold a temperance meeting on the
+Tuscarora Reservation at Grand River, Ontario, with the view of
+organizing a temperance society in conjunction to ours. The meeting was
+held according to the time designated. The meetings were opened and
+conducted with much interest, but dissolved without the formation of a
+society. There was a disagreement concerning the constitution of the
+society, respecting the subjects of discussion in the meetings of the
+society. The Canada Indians wished to have the three other subjects, from
+that of temperance, to bestricken out, but the Tuscaroras of the States
+adhered to the forms of the constitution of their society, which includes
+Industry, Education and Moral Reform, as the subject of lecture of each
+meeting, which was adopted at anearly period.
+
+In the autumn of 1862, the cornet band and a number of the members of the
+society made a visit to Grand River, Ontario, among their Indian
+brethren, and when they arrived there the Sons of Temperance had a social
+party, to which we were very cordially invited to participate of the
+sumptous feast, which was already prepared, and were two days devoted to
+temperance meetings. The time was taken up by lectures on temperance and
+music by the two cornet bands, which played their music alternately, and
+added very much to the interest of the meetings. The speeches were
+interspersed with the rehearsals of the different traditions of the
+causes of the declension of the Indian nations, and regretting the
+slowness of the progress of their civilization, and attribute to
+temperance, to be the great cause of the retard of their advancement in
+industry and civilization.
+
+They were invited several limits by these, our Canada red brothers, to
+their Sons of Temperance conventions at Grand River, of which they
+faithfully attended, and they were also invited at one of their
+conventions held at Monseetown, near London, Ontario, on the reservation
+of the Oneidas: our cornet band and quite a number of the members of our
+society complied to the invitation. The meetings were very interesting.
+There were many speeches made on the subject of temperance, and on
+various topics for the advancement of the respective Indian nations. A
+speech was also made by the author of this book, which began as follows,
+to-wit:
+
+"My dear friends and relatives. I have been interested in the great and
+good cause of temperance for a number of years, and have attended many
+meetings and assemblies in the temperance cause, but this, our present
+gathering, is to me, unusually interesting; it brings my mind back for
+more than a century, when the Tuscaroras were broken down, as a nation,
+by the pale faces, and expelled from their long-cherished homes, and
+driven from the graves of our noble ancestors, into the wild and cold-
+hearted world: and when they were without a friend and without a home,
+and no one to pity them, in this, their time of trouble. You, the
+Oneidas, gave us the hand of friendship and brotherly love, and gave us
+peaceful homes within your wide extended domain, and whispered in our
+ears the words of consolation; when, and how shall we ever forget or
+repay you for the unbounded kindness that your fathers exercised towards
+ours? We have ever given you a place nearest our hearts, with all its
+affections, here we give you our hands and our hearts in the great and
+good cause of temperance, and we wish you prosperity in every sense of
+the word both temporally and morally."
+
+This convention was denominated the Six Nations Sons of Temperance
+Convention, although we, from the States were not members of that order.
+It seems that they deemed it not derogatory to their dignity that we
+should be present at their conventions, although ours is a common, open
+and free, temperance society.
+
+We, also, invited them to hold their convention on our reservation, which
+was acceded to and held in the fall of 1865, and there were delegates of
+several Oneidas, from Monseetown, Ontario, and of the Tuscaroras, from
+Grand River, Ontario, and also a cornet band of the Onondagas, from
+Onondaga Castle, N. Y., which favored us with the sweet strains of their
+music, alternately, with our cornet band.
+
+Every morning the assembly would meet at the school-house, Mt. Hope, at
+10 o'clock, A. M., and there form in procession and march to the council-
+house, about one mile, to the place of meeting: the two cornet bands
+played their music while the procession was moving, and our temperance
+banners were floating in the air, as if to say, rally round the
+temperance banner.
+
+Our temperance banner was made in the year 1844, by our people, assisted
+by, then, our Missionery, Rev. G. Rockwood. It is illustrated by several
+animals illustrative of the several clans that are in the nation; and
+also, six stars that are grouped in the upper corner of the banner, next
+to the pole, indicative, as in the animals, of the several clans, that
+they, aught, also, group together and combine as in one, to work against
+the great monster, intemperance, which is also illustrated by a seven-
+headed serpent. As this monster is formidable, so aught we abstain from
+all intoxicating liquors. There is also, a great eagle soaring in the
+air, in the act of grasping the great seven-headed serpent. This
+illustrates that in our endeavers in the capacity of a society, to defeat
+the great monster--intemperance--we have a helper, which is the
+Legislature of the State of New York and the United States, in enacting
+laws to the effect of staying the great tide of intemperance among the
+Indians, in which weshould take courage.
+
+There was another convention held here in 1873, when there was quite a
+large delegation of the Oneidas, from Monseetown, Ontario, and also from
+Grand River, Ontario, among them was the Tuscarora cornet band of Grand
+River. The meetings were occupied by lectures on temperance and on other
+topics, which were thought to be the most needed for the advancement of
+the social and moral conditions of our red brethren.
+
+The Grand River cornet band, and ours, played, alternately, their angelic
+melodies, to cheer us in the great temperance cause. It was then the
+convention of the Sons of Temperance urged upon us to adopt their Order,
+but our people thought it not advisable to change the order of our
+society, as it has existed since the year 1830; the form may be
+different, but the object is the same. We said we preferred to adhere to
+the old form of our society, open to all, and free to partake of the
+benefits of it, we prayed them God's speed in their turning the great
+wheel of temperance, and we should lay hold on the same wheel and turn
+the same way. That same night the convention closed. There was a great
+bonfire made in the street; and then there was a general farewell, hand-
+shaking, and it closed with music from the bands in the dead of the
+night.
+
+The next convention was held at Grand River, Ontario, in October, 1874,
+in the Six Nation council-house. There was quite a large representation
+of the Six Nations. Speeches were made on the subject of temperance by
+all the different nations, to-wit:
+
+Mr. Josiah Hill, Sachem, of Grand River, Tuscarora.
+
+Mr. David Hill, Sachem, of Grand River, Seneca.
+
+Mr. Levi Jonathan, Sachem, of Grand River, Onondaga.
+
+Mr. Clinch, Sachem, of Grand River, Mohawk.
+
+Mr. James Jemison, of Grand River, Cayuga.
+
+Mr. Eligah, of Monseetown, Oneida.
+
+Mr. William Patterson, Sachem, of Lewiston, Tuscarora.
+
+Dea. Samuel Jacobs, of Lewiston, Tuscarora.
+
+Mr. William Chew, of Lewiston, Tuscarora.
+
+Mr. Elias Johnson, of Lewiston, Tuscarora.
+
+The winter after the meetings above, a communication was received by the
+Secretary of our society, Dea. Samuel Jacobs, from the Tuscaroras of
+Grand River, Ontario, wishing him to forward to them a copy of the
+constitution of our temperance society, and stating that they wish to
+form a society based upon the same, which was deferred by Dea. Jacobs
+until the June following, when Dea. Jacobs, Wm. Patterson, Rev. Thomas
+Green and Wm. Chew went to Grand River with the constitution. After it
+was read in their meeting, the Canadian brothers adopted it and formed a
+society based on the same. It was then proposed and adopted that a
+convention should be held in the Six Nations council-house, at Grand
+River, Ontario, in October, 1875. Accordingly the convention duly met and
+continued three days. Our cornet band was present, with quite a number of
+the members of our society. The meetings were very pleasant and
+interesting. The officers were as follows, to-wit:
+
+President--Wm. Chew, of Lewiston
+
+Vice-President--John Hill, of Grand River
+
+Secretary--Josiah Hill, of Grand River
+
+Before the convention closed it was decided that the next convention
+should be at the Tuscorora Reservation, Lewiston, N. Y., on the 17th day
+of October, 1876, and the officers appointed were as follows, to-wit:
+
+President--Josiah Hill, of Grand River.
+
+Vice-President--Dea. Samuel Jacobs, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Secretary--Elias Johnson, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Just before the appointed time for the convention to meet, there was a
+communication received by Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, our head chief, from A.
+Sim Logan, of Cattaraugas Reservation, N. Y., being leader of the Seneca
+national cornet band, asking the privilege of attending the contemplated
+convention with his band. The letter was read at one of the temperance
+meetings and was not only acceded to, but they were cordially invited to
+attend, and on the 17th day of October, 1876, the day appointed for the
+convention, they were on hand. A. Sims Logan, with his national cornet
+band, of Cattaraugus, and Levi Jonathan, with his Tuscasora cornet band,
+of Grand River, and Solomon Cusick, with his temperance cornet band, of
+Lewiston, N. Y, were present, which comprise the three leading bands of
+music of any nations of Indians.
+
+The programme was substantially as follows:
+
+The meeting was called to order by the president, Josiah Hill, of Grand
+River.
+
+A hymn was sung by the assembly, in the Indian language, words, "Oh, for
+a thousand tongues to sing my Redeemer's praise;" tune, Dundee.
+
+Prayer by Dea. Samuel Jacobs, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+The following were chosen as committees of arrangements to-wit:
+
+Mr. Wm. Chew, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Win. Printup, of Lewiston, N.Y.
+
+Mr. Joseph Henry, of Grand River, Ont.
+
+Mr. George Beaver, of Grand River, Ont.
+
+Mr. Wm. Nephew, of Cattaraugus, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Wm. Printup made the congratulatory speech of the meeting through an
+intrepreter, Joseph Henry.
+
+The speakers of the first session were as follows, to-wit:
+
+Mr. Levi Jonathan, of Grand River, Ont., on Temperance.
+
+Dea. Samuel Jacobs, of Lewiston, N.Y., on Moral Reform.
+
+Mr. Joseph Henry, of Grand River, Ont., on Industry.
+
+Mr. A. Sim Logan, of Cattaraugus, N. Y., on Education
+
+The Tuscarora cornet band favored this session with music between the
+speeches.
+
+Adjourned at 2 o'clock P. M. and convened again at 5 o'clock P.M.
+
+The assembly was called to order by the president.
+
+The following were the speakers, to-wit.
+
+Mr. Simon Carrier, of Grand River, Ont.
+
+Mr. Josiah Hill, of Grand River, Ont.
+
+Mr. William Anderson, of Grand River, Ont.
+
+Mr. Wm. Chew, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Elias Johnson, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Wm. Nephew, of Cattaraugus, N. Y.
+
+Music was favored the second session by the Seneca national band, of
+Cattaraugus. N. Y.
+
+Adjourned at 8:30 o'clock P. M. to 10 o'clock A. M. to-morrow, after
+singing the tune Greenville, words, "Savior, Visit Thy Plantation."
+
+Benediction by Rev Thomas Green.
+
+Oct. 18.--The assembly was called to order by the Vice-President. Dea.
+Samuel Jacobs, of Lewiston, at 10 o'clock A.M. Opened by singing an
+Indian hymn Prayer by Rev. Thomas Green, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+The following were the speakers, to-wit:
+
+Mr. Thomas Williams, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. George Beaver, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. John C. Lay, of Cattaraugus.
+
+Adjourned at 1:30 o'clock P. M. to 4 P. M.
+
+The assembly was called to order at 4 o'clock P. M. by the President.
+
+The following were the speakers, to-wit:
+
+Mr. John John, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. Levi Jonathan, of Grand River.
+
+Dr. Bombry, of Grand River.
+
+President Josiah Hill, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. Albert Cusick, of Onondaga Castle.
+
+Mr. Abram Hill, of Onondaga Castle.
+
+Rev. Thomas Green, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. William Patterson, of Lewiston, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Marvin Crows, of Cattaraugus, N. Y.
+
+This forenoon we were favored with music by our temperance cornet band
+between the speeches.
+
+In the afternoon session we were favored with music by C. C. Lay's
+orchestra band, of Cattaraugus, N. Y.
+
+President Hill in the chair, business was resumed.
+
+Mr. John C. Lay moved that the next convention be held on the Cattaraugus
+Reservation, N. Y. This was followed by a motion of Levi Jonathan, that
+the next convention be held at Grand River, Ontario, who claimed that
+they had adopted the constitution, while the Senecas had not. After some
+discussion, A. Sim Logan said, "If you will give us a copy of your
+constitution, we will accept of it and form a society based on the same."
+
+It was then put to vote and carried that the next convention should be
+held at Cattaraugus, N. Y., on the 25th day of September, 1877.
+
+The following officers were appointed, viz:
+
+Mr. Elias Johnson. Tuscarora, of Lewiston, N. Y., President.
+
+Mr. Josiah Hill, Tuscarora, of Grand River, Vice-President.
+
+Dr. Bombry, Cayuga, of Grand River, Secretary.
+
+On the evening of October 25th, as aforesaid, the convention duly met,
+and was called to order by the President, E. Johnson; opened by singing
+and prayer. Business was then resumed. The Secretary not being present,
+Prof. Chancy C. Jemison, of Cattaraugus, was appointed to fill the
+vacancy.
+
+The committee of arrangements was as follows, viz:
+
+Mr. John Canada, Seneca, of Cattaraugus.
+
+Mr. A. Sim Logan, Seneca, of Cattaraugus.
+
+Mr. Job King, Seneca, of Cattaraugus.
+
+Mr. Levi Jonathan, Onondaga, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. James Jemison, Cayuga, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. Josiah Hill, Tuscarora, of Grand River.
+
+Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, Tuscarora, of Lewiston.
+
+Mr. Wm. Chew, Tuscarora, of Lewiston.
+
+Mr. Daniel La Fort, Onondaga, of Syracuse, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Abram Hill, Oneida, of Syracuse, N. Y.
+
+The convention continued three days. Many speeches were made by the
+leading men of the several nations that were represented. The meetings
+were unusually interesting. Every speaker seemed to be moved to the
+utmost of their enthusiasm. The congregations were large, and every face
+seemed to glow with the interest that was awakened in the great cause of
+temperance. The order and decorum that prevailed throughout all the
+meetings was becoming to any Community.
+
+There were also four cornet bands which favored the assemblies with
+music, in their proper times, which added very much to the interest of
+the convocation. The bands were as follows, to-wit:
+
+Mr. A. Sim Logan's national cornet band, of Cattaraugus, N. Y.
+
+Mr. Chester C. Lay's silver cornet band, of the same place.
+
+Mr. Levi Jonathan's Tuscarora cornet band, of Grand River, Ontario.
+
+Mr. Enos Johnson's temperance cornet band, of Tuscarora, N. Y.
+
+On the morning of the last day of the convention before the services
+began, the four cornet bands consolidated in one, which made over fifty
+members, and played several tunes together outside of the Presbyterian
+church, in which the convention was held, and made a rousing band of music.
+
+The first article of the constitution, which reads thus: "This society
+shall be denominated the Temperance Society," was amended so as to read
+thus: "This society shall be denominated the Six Nations Temperance
+Society of the United States and Canada."
+
+The assembly was then called to sign the temperance pledge of this
+society. There were upwards of two hundred that signed, most of whom
+resided on the reservation in which the convention was held; but there
+were some from the Tonawanda, Alleghany and Onondaga reservations, and
+also one Oneida, from Green Bay, Wis.
+
+The Onondagas and Tonawandas made application for a copy of the
+constitution to be sent to them, that they might form temperance
+societies on their respective reservations, which was granted them, and
+Mr. Josiah Hill was appointed to write the copy and send the same to
+them.
+
+The convention adjourned on the evening of the third day to meet again
+the next year at Grand River, Ontario.
+
+OFFICERS
+
+Mr. John Canada, Seneca, of Cattarauguh, President.
+
+Mr. Wm. Patterson, Tuscarora, of Lewiston, N. Y., Vice-President.
+
+Mr. Josiah Hill, Tuscarora, of Grand River, Secretary.
+
+Mr. John Mt. Pleasant, Tuscarora, of Lewiston, N. Y., Treasurer.
+
+It will be seen by the above that the Tuscaroras have not been altogether
+idle on the subject of temperance. The temptations of intemperance
+surrounding our reservation are great. We hope that the legislature will
+aid us in enacting more rigid laws, for the temptation is working even in
+cider, which seems to be more intoxicating now than in former times.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Friendship of the Tuscaroras to the United States.
+
+The Tuscarora Indians have for more than a century been a firm friend to
+the United States. In the Revolutionary war they took an active part for
+the declaration of independence; many took part, but few were enrolled,
+consequently, but few that drew pension from the United States. For
+instance, Nicholas Cusick, a Tuscarora Indian; where shall you look for
+another instance of friendship, greater than his, towards the
+distinguished Marquis de Lafayette, or for christian principle more firm
+and true than he evinced concerning his pension.
+
+In the war of the Revolution he was under command of Lafayette. Many
+years after peace was concluded, as he was passing through Washington, he
+accidentally heard the name of his old commander spoken of in the office
+in which he stopped on business. The moment his ear caught the sound, his
+eyes brightened, and full of earnestness he asked, "Is he yet alive?"
+"Yes," was the reply, "he is alive and looking well and hearty." With
+decided emphasis, he said, "I am glad to hear it." "Then you knew
+Lafayette, Mr. Cusick?" "Oh, yes;" he answered. "I knew him well, and
+many a time in battle threw myself between him and the bullets, _for I
+loved him_."
+
+On asking him if he had a commission, he said, "Yes; General Washington
+gave me one, and he was Lieutenant." This suggested to his friends that
+he was entitled to a pension, and on looking over the records, the truth
+of what he said was confirmed, and he received one for several years.
+
+Afterwards, congress passed a law making it necessary that each recipient
+should swear that he could not live without the pension. When the old
+warrior was called upon to do this, he said, "Now, here is my little log
+cabin, and it is my own; here is my patch of ground, where I raise my
+corn and beans, and there is lake Oneida, where I can catch fish; with
+these I can make out to live without the pension, and to say that I could
+not, would be to lie to the Great Spirit."
+
+This is the honor of the Tuscarora hero. How many among those of the
+white people who receive a pension would have done likewise, for
+conscience sake. Cusick could speak the English language very well, but
+when he made an audible prayer, or said grace at the table, he used his
+native Tuscarora language, "because," said he, "when I speak in English,
+I am often at a loss for a word; when, therefore, I speak to the Great
+Spirit, I do not like to be perplexed, or have my mind distracted to look
+after a word, when I use my own language, it is like my breath, I am
+composed." In this is exemplified that he fully understood the reverence
+which was due to the great Architect of the universe.
+
+Solomon Longboard, also a Tuscarora Sachem, took an active part in the
+Revolutionary war, with many others of his nation. In one of their
+scouting parties, he, with others, was taken captive by the British
+Indians and brought to fort Niagara, where they were kept for some time,
+and urged to take up arms and fight against the revolutionists. Finally,
+this celebrated sachem, Longboard, held a secret council among the
+captives, and instructed them all to take arms and advance with the
+British Indians, and use their influence to lead them to a place where
+they might be captured, and they with the rest, which they successfully
+effected, and were re-captured by the Americans. Instead of gaining honor
+and laurels to his crown, he was to be sentenced to be shot as a traitor,
+but through the entreaties of the Tuscarora chiefs, and the influence of
+the feasibility of their story that was made on the executives, he was
+released, but never drew pension as did Mr. Cusick.
+
+The Tuscaroras again evinced their friendship for the United States in
+the war of 1812, when they were asked to guard the Niagara river at
+Lewiston and down the river, against the British crossing it.
+
+Here again we hear of the Tuscarora sachem, Solomon Longboard, with about
+thirty-five Tuscarora volunteers, stationed at Lewiston on guard. I have
+recorded some of the names of these volunteers, which I was able to
+obtain from some of the old people that were yet living in the year 1878,
+which are as follows, to-wit: The two sons of Solomon Longboard, Jacob
+Taylor, Joseph Cusick, John Cusick, David Cusick, John Black Nose and his
+brother, Samuel Thompson, John Obediah, Aaron Pempleton, James Pempleton,
+John Mt. Pleasant, Harry Patterson, John Green, Isaac Allen, Capt.
+Williams, Gau-ya-re-na-twa, Wm. Printup, better known as little Billy,
+Black Chief, John Printup, Isaac Green, Surgin Green, George Printup.
+There were but few of these that drew pension, as it was alleged that
+they were not enrolled upon the army roll.
+
+On the night of December 19th, 1813, the British army and British Indians
+crossed the Niagara River near Calvin Hotchkis' place, about two miles
+below Lewiston. They noticed at first there were lights going across the
+river during the night, and at the dawn of day were despatched, Jacob
+Taylor (better known as Colonel Jacobs), and another Indian to accompany
+him--both being Tuscaroras. On their return they reported that the
+British Indians had crossed the river in great numbers. The news was
+circulated in the village of Lewiston and the neighboring country, that
+they might evacuate their places and go east, which they did, taking the
+Ridge road. The Tuscarora volunteers took the rear of the train as they
+moved eastward, commanded by their Sachem, Solomon Longboard.
+
+The British Indians went on the pursuit. After they had gone about two
+miles from the village of Lewiston, where the Tuscarora Indians branched
+off on a road leading to their reservation, known as the Indian hill, or
+Mountain road. As they had advanced part way up the mountain they
+observed a Canada Indian on horseback, who headed off some of the train,
+and among the rest was also Bates Cooke, of Lewiston. One of his legs
+had, a little previous to that time, been amputated, and the main Canada
+force were about half a mile in the rear on pursuit. The commander of the
+Tuscarora force ordered that the Indian heading off the train be shot,
+which was done by John Obediah. The Indian tumbled off the horse and fell
+to the ground, and then got up and ran down the little hill into the
+wood, where it is said he died from the wound he received.
+
+When the report of the gun was heard by the Canadian force and they saw
+the effect it had on their comrade, they halted. Their commander, Mr.
+Longboard, of the Tuscaroras which numbered at that time twenty-six, from
+them selected three men and instructed them to get upon and to go along
+the top of the mountain and to blow a horn occasionally, which they had
+in their possession, and to keep nearly opposite the Canada Indians. The
+object was to serve as a scare-crow, to make them believe that there was
+a force also on the mountain in the act of flanking them. But the
+remaining force of Mr. Longboard rushed down the mountain with their war
+whoops as if legion were coming down, and pursued the Canada Indians,
+while the train of white people had gone on in their flight. The Canada
+Indians retreated about one mile and a half, near to where the main force
+were. Then one of their men halted and aimed his gun at one of our men,
+John Obediah, and the latter also aimed to his opponent, while Samuel
+Thompson got behind a large elm tree. In the meantime, John Obediah spoke
+to the stranger in all the different six languages of the Iroquois, but
+did not get an answer. These were the only two men in pursuit at this
+time, as the rest of them had halted some ways back. Finally the British
+Indian retreated backwards, keeping aim as he went, and all at once gave
+a spring and ran off. The three men that were on the mountain kept
+occasionally blowing the horn as they went, as the road is parallel with
+the mountain.
+
+By this time the train of white people had gone quite a good ways in
+their flight: it is evident that the timely intervention of the Tuscarora
+Indians, saved great slaughter of men, women and children among the white
+people.
+
+The Tuscaroras then went back and kept in the rear of the white people in
+their flight. The British Indians perceiving that it was the Tuscarora
+Indians that killed one of their number and repulsed them, made their way
+to their reservation, (the nation had already deserted their homes), and
+began to burn their houses indiscriminately, and also a meeting-house
+which was built by them, except eight dollars, a convenient chapel where
+the early christian Tuscaroras such as Sacaresa and Solomon Longboard,
+both sachems, with many others, delighted to worship the Almighty in the
+simplicity of their faith. And after they had finished their destruction
+they went down in pursuit of the fleeing train of white people on the
+ridge road: by this time the Tuscaroras had stationed themselves at a log
+house, eight or ten miles from Lewiston, near Nathan Peterson's, which
+was used as an armory; when the Tuscaroras first came, there were a few
+white men there breaking open the powder kegs in this log house, making
+it ready to set on fire but the chief, Mr. Longboard, remonstrated in
+having it burned, and was interpreted to them by Colonel Jacobs, so they
+consented not to destroy the powder.
+
+When the British Indians came in sight, Mr. Longboard instructed his men
+to keep moving back and forth from the log house or armory, to a thicket
+in the rear of the house, for the purpose of making the enemy believe
+that there was a large force stationed there; the enemy halted and
+finally went back, and thus the armory was saved. The manouvre of the
+Tuscarora Indians in these two cases above, was done with but very little
+sacrifice on their part, but the beneficence was great; but then, who
+cares anything about that, it was nothing but an Indian affair anyhow;
+this will probably be the thought of those who peruse my little pages.
+
+When the Tuscaroras evacuated their reservation they went to Oneida
+Castle and remained there during the war. In about the last part of June,
+1814, there was a company of volunteers composed of about thirty
+Tuscaroras and a number of Oneida Indians, that started from Oneida
+Castle to Sackett's Harbor, to join themselves to an army that was
+commanded by General Brown; on their way there, when they arrived at
+Tonawanda. an officer came to them and asked where they were going; they
+answered, "to Sackett's Harbor, to join General Brown's army." The
+officer said, "that is right;" he then asked them if they lacked
+anything, and they said, "nothing more than being short of victuals, but
+we can get along with what game we can procure on the way." The officer
+then gave them one dollar each and told them to go and buy some bread.
+
+They then went on, and on the 3rd or 4th of July they crossed the river
+from Sackett's Harbor, and on the 4th, they, with General Brown and his
+army approached an intrenchment of General Riall's, which was in a strong
+position. Brown told the Tuscaroras that he with his army would attack
+the enemy direct, "but," said he, "you must go around and attack the
+enemy on their flank."
+
+It is acceded by all American nations, that the characteristic of the
+Indians in their war battles, is to fight in scouting and to attack by
+surprise: consequently, it seems that General Riall instructed the
+British Indians, which numbered several hundred, that when he was
+attacked, they the Indians, should move and attack their enemy also
+on the flank; it seems that they moved in the shape of a V with the two
+points foremost. On the 5th occurred the battle of Chippewa; the contest
+was obstinate and bloody; the Tuscarora Indians in moving on the flank of
+Brown's army, they entered in the enemy's moving V of British Indians,
+and when they arrived at the fork, and not until then, did the Tuscaroras
+know where they were; but, nevertheless, they all made the war-whoop,
+fired and made a desperate charge at one point and broke through the
+ranks of the enemy. Strange as it may seem, there was but one wounded and
+that slightly on the cheek, and not one killed; it was a very close
+contest, we getting away with the loss of but a few guns and coats, for
+when the enemy took hold of their coats they would only pull off and run.
+It was then that the enemy's V closed in on the rear of the Tuscaroras
+and the bloody scene began; the enemy fired against themselves, and not
+until they had completely destroyed themselves did they discover in what
+frenzy they were; but at length the Americans were victorious. These same
+Tuscaroras were present at the memorable battle at Bridgewater near
+Niagara Falls, where a desperate engagement, it is said, ensued,
+commencing about sunset and lasting until midnight, where Generals Brown
+and Scott were wounded.
+
+In every instance when the United States were in trouble, the Tuscaroras
+were ever ready to sacrifice their blood upon the American altar, which
+they again fully evinced in the war of the rebellion, when twenty-three
+of the Tuscarora Indian warriors enlisted as volunteers in the United
+States army, some of whom died in the service of the country; but some
+were spared by the good Providence, and were permitted yet to share the
+sweets of home; some inherited diseases which they will probably carry
+down to their graves.
+
+In the year 1862 Cornelius C. Cusick, a grandson of Nicholas Cusick,
+the revolutionist, was commissioned to the office of Second Lieutenant.
+There were four other Tuscaroras mustered in with him in the 3d N. Y.
+Volunteers, 132d Reg't, Co. D, to-wit: Jeremiah Peters, John Peters,
+Hulett Jacobs, George Garlow, and there are others who enlisted
+afterwards at different times during the war, to wit:
+
+Twelfth N. Y. Vol's, Cav., Co. M.--Ozias Chew, John Pempleton, Charles
+Pempleton, Nichodemus Thompssn.
+
+Bat. K, 1st N. Y. Light Art.--Samuel Bearfoot (Ely Patterson), Wm. Joseph
+(Lewis Patterson), Alexander John (Davis Miller), Zhacariah Johnson
+(Elijah Johnson), Wm. Anderson (Samuel Jack).
+
+Clinton Mt. Pleasant, 3Oth, transferred to 31st N. J. Vol's. Inv. colored
+brigade.
+
+Wilson Jacobs, 1st N. Y., Vet. Cav., Co. M.
+
+Edward Spencer (Edward Anderson), Inv. sway. Co. A. 17th Corps.
+
+Alvis D. Hewett, 151st N. Y. Vol's.
+
+Thomas Cornelius, Co. K, 2d N. Y. Mounted Rifles.
+
+Charles Green, 120th N. Y. Vol's, Co. K.
+
+John Longboard, Samuel Mt. Pleasant.
+
+During the war, Cornelius C. Cusick was promoted to First Lieutenant, and
+at the close of the war he was promoted to Captain. He was some time
+afterwards commissioned into the regular army of the United States as
+First Lieutenant.
+
+
+
+
+Antique Rock Citadel of Kienuka;
+
+
+OR, GAU-STRAU-YEA.
+
+There has been much said by different writers of aboriginal forts, and
+fort builders of western New York, in availing themselves of steeps,
+gulfs, defiles, and other marked localities, in establishing works for
+security or defense. This trait is, however, in no case more strikingly
+exemplified than in the curious antique work of Kienuka. The term
+"Kienuka," means the stronghold or fort; but the original name of this
+fort is Gau-strau-yea, which means bark laid down; this has a
+metaphorical meaning, in the similitude of a freshly peeled slippery elm
+bark, the size of the fort and laid at the bottom as a flooring, so that
+if any person or persons go in they must be circumspect, and act
+according to the laws of the fort, or else they will slip and fall down
+to their own destruction.
+
+The citadel of Kienuka is situated about four miles eastward of the inlet
+of Niagara gorge at Lewiston, on a natural escarpment of the ridge on the
+Tuscarora reservation, known at present by the name of the Old Saw Mill.
+
+There is quite an interesting tradition connected with the antique fort
+Gau-strau-yea. At the formation of the confederacy of the Iroquois, there
+was a virgin selected from a nation which was called Squawkihaws (a
+remote branch of the Seneca nation), and was ordained a Queen or
+Peacemaker, who was stationed at this fort to execute her office of
+peace, her official name was Ge-keah-saw-sa.
+
+The fort was built by the Senecas aided by the Squawkihaws, on an
+eminence on the north side of a steep of perpendicular rocks, which was
+about eight or ten feet down; and on the east, south and west sides they
+dug a trench four or five feet deep, and in this trench were placed
+timbers which were put up perpendicularly and jointed as close as
+possible, they projected above the ground ten or twelve feet, inclosing a
+place of about twenty by fifty rods. The house for the Queen was in the
+center of this inclosure or fort, and adjacent houses were built in two
+rows, with a trail or path between them directing towards the Queen's
+house; on each end and inside of the fort, which ran lengthwise east and
+west, was an entrance corresponding with the trail prepared leading to
+the house of the Queen.
+
+Then a suitable number of warriors were selected from the Squawkihaws'
+nation, the ablest bodied, the swiftest runners and the most expert in
+the arts of war, which were stationed at this fort (and made their
+dwelling in the adjacent houses), to keep it in order and execute its
+regulations and laws; they were to be supported with subsistance and all
+other necessaries of life, and furnished with suitable implements of war
+by the Iroquois.
+
+In order more fully to understand the laws and regulations of the fort or
+place of peace, it must be observed that at this period there were
+contentions, strife and wars between all the different known nations of
+the continent; nation against nation, like fishes of the waters, the
+larger ones eating the smaller. The warrior who can report in his
+rehearsal in the war-dance of having obtained the greatest number of
+scalps from the enemy, was the most honored and had the most laurels in
+his crown; consequently, they were constantly forming companies for an
+expedition to some nation in quest of honor and the applause of their
+nation. At this time the confederacy of the Iroquois was formed, and this
+place of peace was ordained for the purpose, it may be, to alleviate the
+distress and commotion of the nations of the forest.
+
+The laws were that there shall be no nation or nations of the Iroquois
+make war against any nation or nations of the same league, under any
+circumstances; and the Iroquois must not make war with any alien nation
+without the consent of the Queen. This fort must ever be held sacred, as
+it is a place of peace, by never allowing the shedding of blood within
+the inclosure. All executions decreed by the Queen should be made outside
+of the fort. And any person or persons, aside from the keepers of the
+fort, should, on entering, never go any faster than a walk. And the Queen
+must always have meals ready at every hour of the day and night--
+allegorically speaking, it is called a kettle of hominy hanging, for all
+fugitives and pursuers from any nation on the continent to partake. All
+fugitives, irrespective of their nationalities, fleeing for life, from
+their enemy, when once their feet touch the threshold of the fort, their
+life is safe; then the Queen conducts him or them into one end of her
+house, which is lengthwise east and west, with a door at each end and a
+partition in the center of the room by a curtain made of deer skin, and
+when the pursuer comes, she also conducts him or them to the other end of
+the room. She then gives to each of these parties, which are enemies to
+each other, sustenance to eat; when, this being done, she rolls away the
+curtain, so that each party can see the other; when they have done eating
+they pass out and go home to their respective nations in peace. It is
+contrary to law after a fugitive arrives at this fort and has gone out,
+for the enemy to execute their death scheme without the consent of the
+Queen; and if this be violated, then the Iroquois demand the trespasser
+from the nation to which he or they belong. If this is acceded to, 'tis
+well; then the trespassers are executed, of which the penalty is death.
+But should the nation harbor the trespasser, then the nation must suffer
+the devastations of war at the hands of the Iroquois.
+
+I would here say a few words in relation to the question often asked,
+"Who were the Squawkihows, Kah-Kwahs, and the Eries?" There has been much
+controversy on the question. These three named tribes were of one
+language and of one nation--a remote branch of the Seneca nation--and
+spoke the same language as the Senecas, varying but very little in a few
+words. These three tribes originally were called Squawkihows. In time
+they became very numerous and powerful. They had their settlement from
+the chores of Lake Ontario and along the Niagara River, and up Lake Erie
+as far as a place now called Erie, and as far east as to the Genesee
+river. This was their domain, within these limits.
+
+A settlement of this nation in the neighborhood of, now, North Evans,
+south of Buffalo, a place called by them Kah-kwah-ka, and the Squawkihows
+living in this vicinity were called Kah-kwahs; and the Squawkihows living
+further on along the shores of Lake Erie were called cats or Eries, a
+name that originated from the name of the lake. By this explanation you
+will better understand my story.
+
+There was a time when the Kah-kwahs' branch of that nation made a
+challenge to the Seneca nation, another very powerful nation having their
+settlement on the east side of the Genesee river, to play a game of ball,
+which the Senecas readily accepted and a day was appointed; accordingly,
+the combat ensued, and was a hotly contested game; but the Senecas
+finally came out victorious. The Kah-kwahs immediately made another
+challenge, that of having a foot race, which the Senecas also accepted.
+Each nation chose their swiftest runners, then the flyers went which and
+tucker for a ways, but the Senecas finally came out glorious. The Kah-
+kwahs being mortified by the defeat of the two contests made the third
+challenge, that of wrestling, with the understanding that an umpire must
+be chosen from each nation and both to have a war club in hand, and the
+one that is defeated should suffer death by having his head struck with
+the war club while down, by the umpire opponent to the one defeated and
+should be best two in three.
+
+Even in this the Senecas accepted the challenge, and in this remarkable
+contest they were also victorious. With this the assemblage dispersed.
+
+The defeats of the Kah-kwahs considerably alieniated the Squawkihows from
+the Senecas; the report, of course, reached the ears of the Queen, which
+also alienated her feelings from the Senecas, she being by birth a
+Squawkihow, but the office to which she was ordained was by the Iroquois.
+
+After this in one of the scouting tours of the Senecas across the Niagara
+river, among the Masassauka Indians, on their return at night to the
+"place of peace" or Gau-strau-yea, they were pursued by a number of the
+Masassaukas; when both parties had arrived and had their repast, they all
+lodged there to rest in peace for the night, as they were wont to do. But
+in the slumber and stillness of the midnight hour, was tested the
+treachery of the Queen, by the Masassaukas, in asking her consent to
+massacre the Senecas in their unsuspecting slumber; her feelings having
+been previously somewhat alienated from the Senecas, she was induced to
+give her consent, whereupon they were massacred; their number I have not
+been able to obtain. They were buried southwest from the Queen's house,
+the mound of which was perceptible until a few years ago, when it was
+cultivated.
+
+This breach of the law of that fort by the Queen giving consent in the
+shedding of blood in that sacred place, grated the conscience of the
+Squawkikows, and being alienated by the defeat they experienced a short
+time previous by the matches they had with the Senecas.
+
+This affair was kept secret for a while. At the same time the Squawkihows
+urged the consent of the Queen for them to exterminate the Seneca nation
+and to take them on surprise, for, they said when they hear of the
+massacre, they will at once wage war against us. They finally prevailed
+on her, so she condemned the Seneca nation to be exterminated.
+
+At this time there was one warrior of the Senecas who had married into
+the Squawkihows' nation and lived among them. When he heard that the
+Queen had given up the Seneca nation into the hands of the Squawkihows,
+to be exterminated, he resolved to go to a place called Tah-nyh-yea,
+among the Senecas--east side of Genesee river, on the Seneca river--where
+dwelled the head Sachem of the Seneca nation, by the name of Onea-gah-re-
+tah-wa, and make his report to that venerable Sachem, the decision of the
+Queen, which was final. To accomplish this, without exciting the
+suspicion of his family and neighbors, he went under the pretense of
+going away to hunt on the lake shore of Ontario, and would not be
+expected home in two or three days. Early one fine morning this warrior
+started on his high mission from his house, which was located near the
+fort (Gau-strau-yea). He went northerly and touched Lake Ontario, where
+he had a canoe for the purpose of hunting and fishing, in which he
+embarked and rowed eastward to the mouth of the Oswego river, and up the
+river as far as the Seneca river: then up that river to the settlement of
+the Senecas. He there left his canoe and made for Tah-nyh-yea, and went
+directly to the Sachem, (Onea-gah-re-tah-wa's) wigwam in the dead of
+night, and called him out doors. He there related to the Sachem the
+decree of the Queen, concerning the Seneca nation and the massacre, and
+requested him to keep secret the way he had received the message. The
+warrior immediately returned home in the same way that he came.
+
+In the morning the venerable Sachem went out early and gave the war cry,
+which denoted that they were massacred, that war was inevitable, and for
+the warriors to rally and prepare for war. The nation soon gathered. He
+then related the message he had received during the night, and said he
+had heard that some of their warriors were massacred at the fort (Gau-
+strau-yea), and that the Queen had decreed their extermination at the
+hand of the Squawkihows. He then appointed four warriors of the best
+runners to go and spy the fort and the settlement if there was any
+indication of preparation for war, with instructions that with the very
+first indication of a preparation for war that they should at once
+dispatch one of their number home to make his report, and the others to
+go on and to observe the progress of the preparation and make their
+reports accordingly.
+
+The four gallant warriors now made their way to the settlement at Gau-
+strau-yea. When they arrived, they saw only the eldest people, from about
+upwards of sixty-five years of age, and the younger children, from about
+fourteen years of age and under. While they were traveling they saw two
+boys picking up sticks for firewood. One of them asked the smaller boy
+where his father was. The bright little fellow spoke promptly and said,
+"Gone to war." Before the older boy could divert his attention by
+touching him, the little fellow finished his answer. This they took to be
+news, and immediately dispatched one of their number home to make the
+report. When this one made his report to Onea-gah-re-tah-wa, he at once
+dispatched runners to the other nations of the league to inform them of
+what had happened to their father, the Seneca nation, and the desecration
+of their fort. The three that were left after the one was dispatched
+home, went onto a settlement of the same nation at Gill Creek, above
+Niagara Falls, where they found the people the same as at Gau-straw-yea.
+The elders and the youngers only were at home. They also asked a boy
+there where his father was. He aswered: "At Kah-kwah-ka," which is south
+of Buffalo. These three spies took pains to get at Kah-kwah-ka in the
+night. When they got there they fouud a great multitude gathered, and
+engaged in the war dance. The spies went right among the multitude
+without being suspected, because their language was the same as the
+Squawkihows, and took part in the dances. They saw the warriors in their
+dance have a head of a bear, tossing it about and striking it with the
+war club, and at the same time exclaiming: "We will have the head of
+Onea-gah-re-tah-wa, (the Seneca Sachem) and strike it thus" at the same
+time hitting it with their club. And the war chief said that they
+would start in the morning and on the third day they would have the head
+of Onea-gah-re-tah-wa strung up on a pole. With that the spies dispatched
+home the second one to make his report of what they saw and heard, and
+this one retired from the crowd privately some little time before
+daybreak. The two still remained with the crowd, talking and chatting
+with them as if they were one of their nation.
+
+In the morning the grand march took their place in the war path towards
+their intended destruction. The ablest warriors took the front rank; then
+came the older ones; after them the boys upwards of fourteen years of of
+age; lastly came the able bodied females. Thus they marched until the
+next night, when they prepared ground for a dance, and went through the
+same performance as the night before. Now the third spy withdrew from the
+crowd just before daybreak to make his report and keep the Senecas posted
+in the advance of the enemy. On the second day the march was renewed, and
+proceeded in the same order as on the first day. The next night was also
+spent as that of the last in flattering themselves of the wonderful
+things that they were to accomplish. About two hours before daybreak the
+last spy also withdrew from the crowd and made for home, to inform them
+how far off they were from the Seneca settlement. After the last one had
+made his report, Onea-gah-re-tah-wa arose from his seat, with that
+majestic movement which only would become him as the head Sachem of the
+Seneca nation, and said: "To you, first, my most beloved comrades, the
+Chiefs and Sachems of our noble nation, I would bring to your minds the
+past in a few words, and it may be for the last time. How often have we
+sat together around the council fire of our nation. I congratulate you
+all in the good feeling that has always prevailed in our deliberations of
+various subjects in relation to the welfare and happiness of our nation,
+and more particularly our sisters and their offspring, and we have not
+been unmindful even of those that are not yet born, for in them have we
+hoped of the existence of our nation. Have not the nations of the
+Iroquois respected and even honored your counsels around the great
+council fire of the league, and now is destruction awaiting your dawn?
+But if that is the will of the Great Spirit, by running we cannot flee
+from it. And to you, our sisters, have we not ever been mindful of you in
+our deliberations and ever wished you success: and have we not, as it
+were, embraced you and your children in our arms to protect you? We now
+commend you to the Great Spirit, who is our helper. And now to you, most
+noble warriors, in whom the council looks for the enforcement of their
+decrees. In bringing difficulties and contentions among yourselves, have
+we not brought back to you peace, by meting out to you justice; and in
+your troubles have we not whispered in your ears words of consolation?
+And we have ever placed you close to our hearts. In you is the power of
+the nation, and in you we look for safety. You have understood
+it that our nation has been given into the hands of our enemy by the
+Queen and we are now in jeopardy. As I have said, we cannot, by running,
+flee from the decree of the Great Spirit, but if He is for us we shall
+prevail. He will give strength to our bow, direct our arrows, give might
+to our arms and direct our blows, and put to flight our enemy, and we
+shall conquer. He is able to give us peace in this our time of trouble,
+if we all but trust in Him. It is he that made us and He is able to
+preserve us from our enemies. Now my dear relatives in the different ties
+of blood, it is not meet that we should have our blood spilt within our
+domain, nor to have the dead bodies of our enemies strewed within our
+settlement. We must now march and meet our foe. We must not turn our heel
+to them; but if we are to be exterminated, let the last drop of Seneca
+blood be spilt upon the bosom of our mother earth, and let the sun in the
+heavens be the witness that we die in the defence of our wives, children
+and homes, which is pleasing in the sight of the Great Spirit."
+
+They now made their march, and after they had advanced a number of miles
+they met the enemy. It was now sometime in the afternoon. A desperate
+battle ensued. The storm of the arrows headed with flint, and also the
+creased poisoned arrows was kept up until evening, when a peculiar war
+cry was given, which indicated rest, at which in an instant the storm of
+arrows ceased, when the Sachems of the two parties came near together and
+deliberated on the conditions of rest during the night, that each party
+should retreat a ways and rest without either molesting the other during
+the night, but in the morning they should come together and resume the
+battle.
+
+In the morning the battle was renewed, even with more vigor than the day
+before, until nearly noon, when the war cry of rest was again given. The
+fight was again suspended for the purpose of taking refreshments.
+
+At this time Onea-gah-re-tah-wa said to the Chiefs of the Squawkihows,
+"While we are resting let us have a recreation by having a wrestling
+between the two parties, and each one should have a war club in his belt,
+and the one that is defeated should die at the hands of his victor with
+the war club." The Squawkihows accepted the challenge. Then the wrestling
+was continued to several contests, in which the Senecas were victorious.
+There were several of the very ablest warriors of the Squawkihows killed
+in this simple contest of wrestling.
+
+They again resumed the battle. At this time the Senecas reserved quite a
+number of their smartest warriors, with each of them a bunch of bark
+prepared for the purpose of tying prisoners. They were in the rear and
+laid low. The battle was still more deepcrate. They finally came in hand-
+in-hand. Then they made use of their war clubs. At this time the
+Squawkihows summoned to their aid their reserved company, which they kept
+in the rear. The young women came on the flank of the Senecas' ranks, and
+beat them with clubs, which made the Senecas falter for a while. Finally
+they called on their reserved warriors, who made a desperate charge on
+the enemy and made them retreat. The Senecas began taking prisoners. They
+tied their hands behind them to trees. In this way they took a great many
+prisoners, particularly the females. The warriors rallied and fought as
+they retreated. After a while a company suddenly broke off from their
+ranks and ran away. In a moment they had disappeared in the forest. Those
+that remained rallied again and fought as they were retreating until
+evening, when all at once the whole company wheeled right around, gave a
+spring, and off they went. The Senecas made their pursuit, every now and
+then taking a prisoner until dark, when they rested and camped for the
+night.
+
+The next morning they selected the best runners, the ablest bodied and
+the most skilled in the arts of war, who were sent out to exterminate the
+nation, to begin at the settlement of fort Gau-strau-yea, and so on south
+to the other settlements of the nation.
+
+When the Seneca invaders came at the fort (Gau-strau-yea), they found it
+was evacuated and all the settlement had fled. The trail they left behind
+pointed southward plainly. The invaders followed to the next settlement
+at Gill Creek, above Niagara Falls, which they found vacated. They still
+followed on, bent on retaliation. They then came to the settlement of
+Kah-kwas, which they also found evacuated. They kept on the pursuit until
+they came to the settlement of the Eries, and also found it evacuated as
+the others. Still they kept on their pursuit, and when they came to the
+Alleghany river they saw pieces floating, which indicated the making of
+canoes. They immediately ascended the river. After they had gone some
+ways they found where the enemies had been encamped, and saw indications
+where they had built several canoes. The fires indicated that they must
+have just embarked that morning and rowed down the river. They they went
+down the river some distance, and finally gave up the chase. The invaders
+returned to their settlement--the Seneca nation. A glorious victory
+crowned their severe trial and labor.
+
+A grand council was called of the Seneca nation for the just returned
+warriors to make their report of the glory they had won, and the complete
+overthrow of the enemy. After they had finished making their report a
+great feast was made, and after that they were again permitted to smoke
+the calumet of peace, and once more settle down as heretofore, as one of
+the bright stars of heaven, among the several nations of the Iroquois. At
+night they had a general dance, both young and old, irrespective of sex,
+to celebrate the great victory they had won.
+
+The Squawkihows have never been heard of since, as a nation, to the
+present time. It is supposed that they must have gone in the far west and
+changed their name: but this is merely a supposition. Those that the
+Senecas took captives are still among the different settlements of the
+Seneca nation, more particularly among the Cattaraugus reservation.
+
+That is the way the Senecas came in possession of so large a dominion.
+They held their domain east of the Genesee river, and also took
+possession of the dominion of the Squawkihows, which run from Lake
+Ontario and along Niagara river and Lake Erie to the Pennsylvania line.
+
+The office of the Queen Ge-keah-sau-sa, of fort Gau-strau-yea, for
+several hundred years (it is said by the Senecas about six hundred years
+ago she evacuated the fort), the Iroquois did not reordain, for the
+reason, as it is alleged by them, that the female is the weaker sex of
+humanity. Physically, it must follow that they are weaker also mentally,
+as it is evinced by the treachery of the Queen in her easily being
+decoyed in making her rash decision concerning the massacre in the fort,
+and also in the giving up of the Seneca nation in the hands of their
+enemy. They considered it not prudent to vest so much authority in the
+weaker sex. And as no one has been considered capable or worthy of the
+high honor that Ge-keah-sau-wa once reigned, until about twenty-five
+years ago, from the year 1878, there was a Virgin selected from among the
+Tonawanda band of the Seneca nation by the name of Caroline Parker,
+sister to Eli Parker, once in General Grant's staff, and Commissioner of
+Indian Affairs, who was ordained to the high office of Queen, or Ge-keah-
+sau-sa. She is now the wife of a noted Sachem of the Tuscarora nation,
+Mr. John Mount Pleasant, of no common wealth. She is located about two
+miles southwest of the antique fort Gah-strau-yea, or Kienuka, on the
+Tuscarora reservation, where she ever held open her hospitable house, not
+only to the Iroquois, but of every nation, including the pale faces.
+Allegorical speaking, she has ever had a kettle of hominy hanging over
+her fire-place, ready to appease the hunger of those who trod her
+threshold.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+THE NEW RELIGION.
+
+About the year 1800 a new religion was introduced among the Six Nations,
+the exponent of which alleged to have received a revelation from the
+Great Spirit, with a commission to preach to them the new doctrine in
+which he was instructed. This revelation was received in circumstances so
+remarkable, and the precepts he sought to inculcate contained in
+themselves such evidences of wisdom and beneficence that he was
+universally received among them, not only as a wise and good man, but as
+one commissioned by the Great Spirit to become their religious teacher.
+The new religion, as it has ever since been called, embodied all the
+precepts of the ancient faith, recognized the ancient mode of worship
+giving it a new sanction of the Great Spirit, and also comprehend such
+new doctrines as came in aptly, to lengthen out and enlarge the original
+system without impairing it. Charges of imposture and deception were at
+first preferred against him, but disbelief of his divine mission
+gradually subsided, until at the time of his death the whole
+unchristianized portion of the Six Nations had become firm believers in
+the new religion, which to the present day has continued to some extent
+as a prevailing faith.
+
+This singular person who was destined to obtain such a spiritual sway
+over the descendants of the ancient Iroquois was Ga-ne-o-di-yo, or
+"Handsomelake." a Seneca sachem of the highest class, he was born at the
+Indian village of Ga-no-wau-ges, near Avon, about the year 1735, and died
+at Onondaga in 1815, where he happened to be on one of his pastoral
+visits. By birth he was a Seneca of the Turtle clan, and a half brother
+to the celebrated Corn Planter by a common father. The most part of his
+life was spent in idleness and dissipation during which time, although a
+sachem and ruler among the Senecas for many years, and through the most
+perilous time of their history, he acquired no particular reputation.
+Reforming late in life, in his future career he showed himself to be
+possessed of superior talents and to be animated by a sincere and ardent
+desire for the welfare of his race.
+
+At this period and for about a century preceeding, the prevailing habit
+of intemperance among the Iroquois was the fruitful source of their
+domestic trouble, this in connection with their political disasters
+seemed to threaten the speedy extinction of their race. A temperance
+reformation, universal and radical, was the main and ultimate object of
+the mission which he assumed, and upon which he chiefly used his
+influence and eloquence through the remainder of his life. To secure a
+more speedy reception of his admonitions, he clothed them with divine
+sanction, to strengthen their moral principles, he enforced anew the
+precepts of the ancient faith; and to insure obedience to his teachings,
+he held over the wicked the terrors of eternal punishment. Going from
+village to village among the several nations of the league, with the
+exception of the christainized Oneidas and Tuscaroras, continuing his
+visits from year to year, preaching the new doctrine with remarkable
+effect. Many abandoned their dissolute habits and became sober and moral
+men; discord and contentions gave place to harmony and order, and
+vagrancy and sloth to ambition and industry. The origin of this project
+has at times been ascribed to Cornplanter as a means to increase his own
+influence, but this is not only improbable but is expressly denied. The
+motives by which Handsomelake claimed to be actuated were entirely of a
+religious and benevolent character, and in pursuance of the injunctions
+of his spiritual guides.
+
+At the time of his supernatural visitation, about the year 1800,
+Handsomelake resided at the village of Cornplanter, on the Alleghany
+river in the State of Pennsylvania. As he explained the case to his
+brethren, having lain ill for a long time he had given up all hope of
+recovery and resigned himself to die. When in the hourly expectation of
+death, three spiritual beings in the form of men, sent by the Great
+Spirit, appeared before him, each carried in his hand a shrub bearing
+different kinds of berries, which, having been given him to eat, he was
+by their miraculous virtue immediately restored to health. They afterward
+revealed to him the will of the Great Spirit upon a variety of subjects,
+and particularly in relation to the prevailing intemperance,
+commissioning him to promulgate these doctrines among the league, causing
+him to see realities of the evil-minded, and to behold with his mortal
+eyes the punishment inflicted upon the wicked, that he might with more
+propriety warn his people of their impending destiny. He was also
+permitted to behold the realm and felicities of the Heavenly residence of
+the virtuous. With his mind thus prepared, and stored with divine
+precepts, and with his zeal enkindled by the dignity of his mission,
+Handsomelake at once commenced his labors.
+
+After his death, Sase-ha-wa, (Johnson) of Tonawanda, was appointed his
+successor. The first and only person ever "raised up" by the Iroquois,
+and invested with the office of a supreme religious instructor--a sincere
+believer in the verity of Handsomelake's mission, and an eminently pure
+and virtuous man--Sase-ha-wa (Johnson) has devoted himself with zeal and
+fidelity to the duties of his office, as a spiritual guide and teacher of
+the Iroquois. He was a grand-son of Handsomlake, a nephew of Red Jacket,
+and was born at the Indian village of Ga-no-wan-ges, near Avon, about the
+year 1774.
+
+At the condolence and religious councils of the Iroquois, which are still
+held at intervals of a few years, among the scattered descendants of the
+long house, it has long been customary to set apart portions of two or
+three days to listen to a discourse from Johnson upon the new religion.
+On these occasions he explains minutely the circumstance attending the
+supernatural visitation of Handsomelake, and delivers the instructions,
+word for word, which he had been accustomed to give during his own
+ministration. Handsomelake professed to repeat the messages which were
+given to him from time to time by the celestial visitants, with whom he
+alleged to be in frequent communication, and whom he addressed as his
+spiritual guardian, thus enforcing his precepts as the direct command of
+the Great Spirit.
+
+At their councils and religious, festivals, it was customary for the
+chiefs and keepers of the faith to express their confidence in the new
+religion, and to exhort others to strengthen their beliefs. The late
+Abraham La Fort, an educated Onondaga Sachem, thus expressed himself upon
+this subject at a condolence council of the league, held at Tonawanda as
+late as October, 1847.
+
+"Let us observe the operations of nature. The year is divided into
+seasons, and every season has its fruits. The birds of the air, though
+clothed in the same dress of feathers, are divided into many classes, and
+one class is never seen to associate or intermingle with any but its own
+kind. So with the beasts of the field and woods. Each and every class and
+specie have their own separate rules by which they seem to be governed,
+and by which their actions are regulated. These distinctions, classes and
+colors the Great Spirit has seen fit to make. But the rule does not stop
+here. It is universal. It embraces man also. The human race was created
+and divided into different classes, which were placed separate from each
+other--having different customs, manners, laws and religions. To the
+Indians it seems that no more religion had originally been than was to be
+found in the operations of nature, which taught him that there was a
+Supreme Being, all powerful and all wise; and on this account, as well as
+on account of his great goodness, they learned to love and reverence Him.
+But these later times, when the restless and ambitious spirit of the
+whiteskinned race had crossed the boundary line and made inroads upon the
+manners, customs and primitive religion of the Indian, the Great Spirit
+determined to and through His servant, Handsomelake, did reveal his will
+to the Indians. The substance of that will was no more than to confirm
+their ancient belief that they were entitled to a different religion--a
+religion adapted to their customs, manners and ways of thinking."
+
+As the discourses delivered by Johnson from time to time contains a very
+full exposition of their ancient beliefs and mode of worship, together
+with the recent views introduced by Handsomelake, mingled up in one
+collection, presenting probably a better idea of their ethical and
+religious system than could be conveyed in any other manner, it is given
+entire, and will explain itself as delivered, thus:
+
+"The Mohawks, the Onondagas, the Senecas, and our children, the Oneidas,
+Cayugas and Tuscaroras, have assembled here to-day to listen to the
+repetition of the will of the Great Spirit, as communicated to us from
+heaven through His servant, Handsomelake.
+
+"Chiefs, warriors, women and children, we give you a cordial welcome. The
+sun has advanced far in its path, and I am warned that my time to
+instruct you is limited to the meridian sun. I must hasten to perform my
+duty. Turn you minds to the Great Spirit, and listen with strict
+attention. Think seriously upon what I am about to speak. Reflect upon it
+well, that it may benefit you and your children. I thank the Great Spirit
+that He has spared the lives of so many of you to be present on this
+occasion. I return thanks to Him that my life is yet spared. The Great
+Spirit looked down from Heaven upon the suffering and the wanderings of
+the red children. He saw that they had greatly decreased and degenerated.
+He saw the ravages of the firewater among them. He therefore raised up
+for them a sacred inspiration, who, having lived and traveled among them
+for sixteen years, was called from his labors to enjoy eternal felicity
+with the Great Spirit In Heaven. Be patient while I speak. I cannot at
+all times arrange and prepare my thoughts with precision. But I will
+relate what my memory bears.
+
+"It was in the month of June when Handsomelake was yet sick. He had been
+ill for years. He was accustomed to tell us that he had resigned himself
+to the will of the Great Spirit. 'I nightly returned my thanks to the
+Great Spirit,' said he, 'as my eyes were gladdened at evening by the
+sight of the stars of heaven. I viewed the ornamental heaven at evening
+through the opening in the roof of my lodge, with grateful feelings to my
+Creator. I had no assurance that I should at the next evening contemplate
+His works. For this reason my acknowledgment to Him was more fervent and
+sincere. When night was gone, and the sun again shed its light upon the
+earth, I saw and acknowledged in the return of day His continued goodness
+to me and to all mankind. At length, I began to have an inward conviction
+that my end was near. I resolved once more to exchange friendly words
+with my people, and I sent my daughter to summon my brothers Cornplanter
+and Blacksnake. She hastened to do his bidding, but before she returned
+he had fallen into insensibility and apparent death. Blacksnake, upon
+returning to the lodge, hastened to his brother's couch and discovered
+that portions of his body were yet warm. This happened at early day
+before the morning dew had dried. When the sun had advanced half way to
+the meridian his heart began to beat, and he opened his eyes. Blacksnake
+asked him if he was in his right mind, but he answered not. At meridian
+he again opened his eyes, and the same question was repeated. He then
+answered and said, 'A man spoke from without and some one might come
+forth. I looked and saw some men standing without. I rose, and as I
+attempted to step over the threshold of my door I stumbled, and should
+have fallen had they not caught me. They were three holy men who looked
+alike and were dressed alike. The paint they wore seemed but a day old.
+Each held in his hand a shrub bearing different kinds of fruits. One
+of them addressing me said, 'We have come to comfort and relieve you;
+take of these berries and eat; they will restore you to health: we have
+been witnesses of your lengthy illness; we have seen with what
+resignation you have given yourself up to the Great Spirit: we have heard
+your daily return of thanks; He has heard them all; His ear has ever been
+open to hear; you was thankful for the return of night, when you could
+contemplate the beauties of heaven; you was accustomed to look upon the
+moon as it coursed in its mighty paths; when there were no hopes to you
+that you would again behold these things, you willingly resigned
+yourself, to the mind of the Great Spirit; this is right; since, the
+Great Spirit made the earth and put man upon it, we have been His
+constant servants to guard and protect His works; there are four of us;
+some other time you will be permitted to see the other; the Great Spirit
+is pleased to know your patient resignation to His will; as a reward for
+yonr devotion He has cured your sickness; tell your people to assemble
+to-morrow, and at morn go in and speak to them.' After they had
+further revealed their intentions concerning him they departed.
+
+"At the time appointed Handsomelake appeared at the council and thus
+addressed the people upon the revelations which had been made to him:
+
+"'I have a message to deliver to you. The servant of the Great Spirit has
+told me that I should yet live upon the earth to become an instructor to
+my people. Since the creation of man the Great Spirit has often raised up
+men to teach his children what they should do to please him; but they
+have been unfaithful to their trust. I hope I shall profit by their
+example. Your Creator has seen that you have transgressed greatly against
+His laws. He made men pure and good. He did not intend that he should
+sin. You create a great sin in taking the firewater. The Great Spirit
+says you must abandon this enticing habit. Your ancestors have brought
+great misery upon you. They first took the firewater of the white man,
+and entailed upon you its consequences. None of them have gone to heaven.
+The firewater does not belong to you. It was made by the white man beyond
+the great waters. For the white man it is a medicine; but they, too, have
+violated the will of their Maker. The Great Spirit says drunkenness is a
+great crime, and He forbids you to indulge in this evil habit. His
+command is to the old and young. The abandonment of its use will relieve
+much of your sufferings, and greatly increase the comforts and happiness
+of your children. The Great Spirit is grieved that so much crime and
+wickedness should defile the earth. There are many evils which He never
+intended should exist among His red children. The Great Spirit has for
+many wise reasons withheld from man the number of his days, but He has
+not left him without a guide, for He has pointed out to him the path in
+which he may safely tread the journey of life.
+
+"'When the Great Spirit made man He also made woman. He instituted
+marriage, and enjoined upon them to love each other and be faithful. It
+is pleasing to Him to see men and women obey His will. Your Creator
+abhors a deceiver and a hypocrite. By obeying His commands you will die
+an easy and happy death. When the Great Spirit instituted marriage He
+ordained to bless those who were faithful with children. Some women are
+unfaithful and others become so by misfortune. Such have great
+opportunities to do much good. There are many orphans and poor children
+whom they can adopt as their own. If you tie up the clothes of an orphan
+child the Great Spirit will notice it and reward you for it. Should an
+orphan ever cross your path be kind to him and treat him with tenderness,
+for this is right. Parents must constantly teach their children morality
+and reverence for their Creator. Parents must also guard their children
+against improper marriages. They, having much experience, should select a
+suitable match for their child. When the parents of both parties have
+agreed, then bring the young pair together and let them know what good
+their parents have designed for them. If in time they so far disagree
+that they cannot possibly live contented and happy with each other they
+may separate in mutual good feeling, and in this it is no wrong.
+
+"'When a child is born to a husband and wife they must give great thanks
+to the Great Spirit, for it is His gift and an evidence of His kindness.
+Let parents instruct their children in their duty to the Great Spirit, to
+their parents and to their fellowmen. Children should obey their parents
+and guardians, and submit to them in all things. Disobedient children
+occasion great pain and misery. They wound their parents' feelings and
+often drive them to desperation, cause them great distress and final
+admission into the place of evil spirit. The marriage obligations should
+generate good to all who have assumed them. Let the married be faithful
+to each other, that when they die it may be in peace. Children should
+never permit their parents to suffer in their old age. Be kind to them,
+and support them. The Great Spirit requires all children to love, revere
+and obey their parents. To do this is highly pleasing to Him. The
+happiness of parents is greatly increased by the affection and the
+attention of their children. To abandon a wife or children is a great
+wrong, and produces many evils. It is wrong for a father or mother-in-law
+to vex a son or daughter-in-law, but they should use them as if they were
+their own children. It often happens that parents hold angry disputes
+over their infant child. This is also a great sin. The infant hears and
+comprehends the angry words of its parents. It feels bad and lonely. It
+can see for itself no happiness in prospect. It concludes to return to
+its Maker. It wants a happy home, and dies. The parents then weep
+because their child has left them. You must put this evil practice from
+among you if you would live happy.
+
+"'The Great Spirit when He made the earth never intended that it should be
+made merchandise, but His will is that all His creatures should enjoy it
+equally. Your chiefs have violated and betrayed their trust by selling
+lands. Nothing is now left of our once large pobsessions save a few small
+reservations. Chiefs and aged men, you, as men, have no lands to sell.
+You occupy and possess tract in trust for your children. You should hold
+that trust sacred, lest your children are driven from their homes by your
+unsafe conduct. Whoever sells land offends the Great Spirit, and must
+expect a great punishment after death.'"
+
+Johnson here suspended the naration of the discourse of Handsomelake's,
+and thus addressed the council:
+
+"Chiefs, keepers of the faith, warriors, women and children--You all know
+that our religion teaches that the early day is dedicated to the Great
+Spirit, and that the late day is granted to the spirits of the dead. It
+is now meridian, and I must close. Preserve in your minds that which has
+been said. Accept my thanks for your kind and patient attention. It is
+meet that I should also return my thanks to the Great Spirit that he has
+assisted me thus far in my feeble frame to instruct you. We ask you all
+to come up again to-morrow at early day, to hear what further may be
+said. I have done."
+
+The next morning, after the council had been opened in the usual manner,
+Johnson thus continued.
+
+"Relatives, uncover now your heads and listen. The day has thus far
+advanced, and again gathered around the council-fire I see around me the
+several nations of the long house. This gives me great joy. I see also
+seated around me my counselors (keepers of the faith), who have been
+regularly appointed, as is the custom of our religion. Greetings have
+been exchanged with each other. Thanks have been returned to
+Handsomelake. Thanks also have been returned to our Creator by the
+council now assembled. At this moment the Great Spirit is looking upon
+this assembly. He hears our words, knows our thoughts, and is always
+pleased to see us gathered together of good. The sun is now high, and
+soon it will reach the middle heavens. I must therefore make haste.
+Listen attentively, and consider well what you shall hear. I return
+thanks to our Creator, that He has spared your lives through the dangers
+of the darkness. I salute and return my thanks to the four Celestial
+Beings who have communicated what I am about to say to you. I return
+thanks to my grandfather (Handsomelake), from whom you first heard what I
+am about to speak. We all feel his loss. We miss him at our councils. I
+now occupy his place before you, but I am conscious that I have not the
+power which he possessed.
+
+"Counselors, warriors, mother sand children--Listen to good instruction.
+Consider it well. Lay it up in your hearts, and forget it not. Our
+Creator when He made us designed that we should live by hunting. It
+sometimes happens that a man goes out for to hunt, leaving his wife with
+his friends. After a long absence he returns and finds that his wife has
+taken another husband. The Great Spirit says this is a great sin, and
+must be put from among us.
+
+"The four messengers further said that it was wrong for a mother to
+punish a child with a rod. It is not right to punish much, and our
+Creator never intended that children should be punished with a whip or be
+used with much violence. In punishing a refractory child water only is
+necessary, and it is sufficient. Plunge them under. This is not wrong.
+Whenever a child promises to do better the punishment must cease. It is
+wrong to continue it after promises of amendment are made. Thus they
+said.
+
+"It is right and proper always to look upon the dead. Let your face be
+brought near to theirs, and address them. Let the dead know that their
+absence is regretted by their friends, and that they grieve for their
+death. Let the dead know, too, how their surviving friends intend to
+live. Let them know whether they will so conduct themselves that they
+will meet them again in the future world. The dead will hear and
+remember. Thus they said.
+
+"Continue to listen while I proceed to relate what further they said. Our
+Creator made the earth. Upon it He placed man, and gave him certain rules
+of conduct. It pleased Him also to give them many kinds of amusement. He
+also ordered that the earth should produce all that is good for man. So
+long as he remains, it will not cease to yield. Upon the surface of the
+ground berries of various kinds are produced. It is the will of the Great
+Spirit that when they ripen we should return our thanks to Him, and have
+a public rejoicing for the continuance of these blessings. He made
+everything which we live upon, and requires us to be thankful at all
+times for the continuance of His favors. When our life (corn, &c,), has
+again appeared, it is the will of the Great Spirit that we assemble for a
+general thanksgiving. It is His will also that His children be brought
+and to participate in the feather dance. Your feast must consist of the
+new production. It is proper at these times, should any present not have
+their names published, or any changes have been made, to announce them
+then.
+
+"The festival must last four days. Thus they said. Upon the first day must
+be performed the feather dance. This ceremony must take place in the
+early day, and cease at the middle day. In the same manner, upon the
+second day, is to be performed the Thanksgiving dance. On the third, the
+Thanksgiving concert. Ah-do-weh is to be introduced. The fourth day is
+set apart for the peach-stone game. All these ceremonies instituted by
+our Creator must be commenced at early day, and cease at the middle day.
+At all these times we are required to return thanks to our Grandfather
+Heno (Thunder) and his assistants. To them is assigned the duty of
+watching over the earth and all its produces for our good. The great
+Feather and Thanksgiving dances are the appropriate ceremonies of
+Thanksgiving to the Ruler and Maker of all things. The Thanksgiving
+concert belongs appropriately to our grandfathers. In it we return thanks
+to them. During the performance of this ceremony we are required also to
+give them the smoke of tobacco. Again we must at this time return thanks
+to our mother--the earth--for she is our relative. We must also return
+thanks to our life and its sister. All these things are required to be
+done by the light of the sun. It must not be protracted until the sun has
+hid its face and darkness surrounds all things.
+
+"Continue to listen. We have a change of season. We have a season of
+cold. This is the hunting season. It is also one in which the people can
+amuse themselves. Upon the fifth day of the new moon Nis-go-wuk-na (about
+February 1st), we are required to commence the annual jubilee of
+thanksgiving to our Creator. At this festival all can give evidence of
+their devotion to the will of the Great Spirit, by participating in all
+of its ceremonies.
+
+"Continue to listen. The four Messengers of the Great Spirit have always
+watched over us, and have ever seen what was transpiring among men. At
+some times Handsomelake was transported by them to the regions above. He
+looked down upon the earth and saw an assembly. Out of it came a man. His
+garments were torn, tattered, and filthy. His whole appearance indicated
+great misery and poverty. They asked him how this spectacle appeared to
+him. He replied that it was hard to look upon. They then told him that
+the man he saw was a drunkard; that he had taken the firewater and it had
+reduced him to poverty. Again he looked and saw a woman, seated on the
+ground. She was constantly engaged in gathering up and secreting about
+her person her worldly effects. They said the woman you see is
+inhospitable. She is selfish to spare anything, and will never leave her
+worldly goods. She can never pass from earth to heaven. Tell this to your
+people. Again he looked, and saw a man carrying in each hand large pieces
+of meat. He went about the assembly to give each a piece. This man they
+said is blessed, for he is hospitable and kind. He looked again, and saw
+streams of blood. They said thus will the earth be if the firewater is
+not put from among you. Brother will kill brother, and friend kill
+friend. Again they told him to look towards the east. He obeyed as far as
+his vision reached. He saw the increasing smoke of numberless
+distilleries arising and shutting out the light of the sun. It was a
+horrible spectacle to witness. They told him that here was the place that
+manufactured the firewater. Again he looked, and saw a costly house, made
+and furnished by the pale faces. It was a house of confinement where were
+fetters, ropes and whips. They said those who persisted in the use of
+firewater would fall into this. Our Creator commands us to put this
+destructive vice far from us. Again he looked and saw various
+assemblages. Some of them were unwilling to listen to instruction. They
+were rioters and took great pride in drinking the strong waters. He
+observed another group who were half inclined to hear, but the
+temptations of vice that surrounded them allured them back, and they also
+revelled in the fumes of the firewater. He saw another assemblage who had
+met to hear instruction. This they said was pleasing to the Great Spirit.
+He loves those who will listen and obey. It has grieved Him that His
+children are now divided by separate interests, and are pursuing so many
+paths. It pleases Him to see His people live together in harmony and
+quiet. The firewater creates many dissensions and divisions among us.
+They said the use of it would cause many to die unnatural deaths.
+Many will be exposed to cold and freeze. Many will be burned, and others
+will be drowned while under the influence of the firewater.
+
+"Friends and relations, all these things have often happened. How many of
+our people have frozen to death, how many have burned to death: how many
+have been drowned, while under the influence of the strong water. The
+punishment of those who use the firewater commences while they are yet on
+the earth. Many are now thrown into houses of confinement by the pale
+faces. I repeat to you the Ruler of us all requires us to unite and put
+this evil from among us. Some say the use of the firewater is not wrong,
+and that it is food. Let those who do not believe it is wrong make this
+experiment: Let all who use the firewater assemble and organize into a
+council, and those who do not into another council near them. A great
+difference will then be discovered. The council of drunkards will end in
+a riot and tumult, while the other will have harmony and quiet. It is
+hard to think of the great prevalence of this evil among us. Reform, and
+put it from among you. Many resolve to use the firewater until near
+death, when they will repent. If they do this nothing can save them from
+destruction, for medicine can then have no power. Thus they said.
+
+"All men were made equal by the Great Spirit, but He has given them a
+variety of gifts. To some a pretty face, to others an ugly one: to some a
+comely form, to others a deformed figure; some are fortunate in
+collecting around them worldly goods; but you are all entitled to the
+same privileges, and therefore must put pride from among you. You are not
+your own maker, nor the builders of your own fortunes; all things are the
+gifts of the Great Spirit, and to Him must be returned thanks for their
+bestowal; He alone must be acknowledged as the giver. It has pleased Him
+to make differences among men, but it is wrong for one man to exalt
+himself above another. Love each other, for you are all brothers and
+sisters of the same great family. The Great Spirit enjoins upon all to
+observe hospitality and kindness, especially to the needy and helpless,
+for this is pleasing to Him. If a stranger wanders about your abode,
+speak to him with kind words; be hospitable toward him; welcome him to
+your home, and forget not always to mention the Great Spirit. In the
+morning give thanks to the Great Spirit for the return of day and the
+light of the sun. At night renew your thanks to Him that His ruling power
+has preserved you from harm during the day and that night has again come
+in which you may rest your wearied bodies.
+
+"The four messengers said further to Handsomelake, 'Tell your people, and
+particularly the keeper of the faith, to be strong-minded and adhere to
+the true faith. We fear the evil-minded will go among them with
+tempations. He may introduce the fiddle; he may bring cards and leave
+them among you; the use of these is a great sin. Let the people be on
+their guard and the keepers of the faith be watchful and vigilant that
+none of these evils may find their way among the people. Let the keepers
+of the faith preserve the law of moral conduct in all its purity. When
+meetings are to be held for instruction and the people are preparing to
+go, the evil-minded is then busy. He goes from one to another whispering
+many temptations, by which to keep them away. He will even follow persons
+into the door of the council and induce some at that time to bend their
+steps away; many resist until they have entered, and then leave. This
+habit once indulged in, obtains fast hold and the evil propensity
+increases with age. This is a great sin, and should be at once abandoned.
+Thus they said.'
+
+"Speak evil of no one; if you can say no good of a person, then be
+silent; let all be mindful of this, for these are the words of our
+Creator. Let all strive to cultivate friendship with those who surround
+them. This is pleasing to the Great Spirit.
+
+"Counselors, warriors, women and children--I shall now rest. I thank you
+all for you kind and patient attention. I thank the Great Spirit that He
+has spared the lives of so many of us to witness this day. I request you
+all to come up again to-morrow at early day. Let us all hope that until
+we meet again the Creator and Ruler of us all may be kind to us and
+preserve our lives, na-ho."
+
+The council on the following day was opened with a few short speeches by
+some of the chiefs or keepers of the faith, returning thanks for the
+privileges of the occasion, as usual at councils; after which Johnson,
+resuming his discourse, spoke as follows:
+
+"Friends and relatives, uncover now you heads. Continue to listen to my
+rehearsal of the saying communicated to Handsomelake by the four
+messengers of the Great Spirit. We have met again around the council
+fire. We have followed the ancient custom and greeted each other. This is
+right and highly pleasing to our Maker. He now looks down upon this
+assemblage; He sees us all; He is informed of the cause of our gathering,
+and it is pleasing to Him. Life is uncertain; while we live let us love
+each other; let us sympathize always with the suffering and needy; let us
+also always rejoice with those who are glad. This is now the third day,
+and my time for speaking to you is drawing to a close. It will be a long
+time before we meet again; many moons and seasons will have passed before
+the sacred council-brand be again uncovered; be watchful, therefore, and
+remember faithfully what you may now hear.
+
+"In discoursing yesterday upon the duties of the keepers of the faith, I
+omitted some important things. The Great Spirit created this office; He
+designed that its duties should never end. There are some who are
+selected and set apart by our Maker to perform the duties of this office;
+it is therefore their duty to be faithful, and to be always watching.
+These duties they must ever perform during their lives. The faithful when
+they leave this earth will have a pleasant path to travel. The same
+office exists in heaven, the home of our Creator. They will take the same
+place when they arrive there. There are dreadful penalties awiting those
+keepers of the faith who resign their office without a cause. Thus they
+said.
+
+"It was the original intention of our Maker that all our feasts of
+thanksgiving should be seasoned with the flesh of wild animals, but we
+are surrounded by the pale faces, and in a short time the woods will all
+be removed: then there will be no game for the Indians to use in their
+feasts. The four messengers said in consequence of this that we might use
+the flesh of domestic animals. This will not be wrong. The pale faces are
+pressing upon every side. You must therefore live as they do. How far you
+can do so without sin I will now tell you. You may grow cattle and for
+yourselves a comfortable dwelling house. This is not sin, and it is all
+you can safely adopt of the customs of the pale faces. You cannot live as
+they do. Thus they said.
+
+"Continue to listen. It has pleased our Creator to set apart as our life
+the three Sisters. For this special favor let us ever be thankful. When
+we have gathered in our harvest let the people assemble and hold a
+general thanksgiving for so great a good. In this way you will show your
+obedience to the will and pleasure of your Creator. Thus they said.
+
+"Many of you are ignorant of the spirit of medicine. It watches over us
+constantly, and assists the needy whenever necessity requires. The Great
+Spirit designed that some man should possess the gift and skill in
+medicine, but He is pained to see a medicine man making exorbitant
+charges for attending the sick. Our Creator made for us tobacco. This
+plant must always be used in administering medicine. When a sick person
+recovers his health he must return his thanks to the Great Spirit by
+means of tobacco, for it is by His goodness that he is made well.
+He blesses the medicine, and the medicine man must receive as a reward
+whatever the gratitude of the restored may tender. This is right and
+proper. There are many that are unfortunate and cannot pay for
+attendance. It is sufficient for such to return thanks to the medicine
+man upon recovery. The remembrance that he has saved the life of a
+relative will be a sufficient reward.
+
+"Listen further to what the Great Spirit has been pleased to communicate
+to us. He has made us, as a race, separate and distinct from the pale
+faces. It is a great sin to intermarry and intermingle the blood of the
+two races. Let none be guilty of this transgression.
+
+"At one time the four messengers said to Handsomelake, 'Lest the people
+should disbelieve you and not repent and forsake their evil ways, we will
+now disclose to you the house of torment, the dwelling place of the
+evil-minded.' Handsomelake was particular in describing to us all that he
+witnessed, and the course which departed spirits were accustomed to take
+on leaving the earth. There was a road which led upward; at a certain
+point it branched; one branch led straight forward to the house of the
+Great Spirit, and the other turned aside to the house of torment; at the
+place where the roads separated were stationed two keepers, one
+representing the good and the other the evil spirit; when a person
+reached the fork, if wicked, by a motion of the evil keeper, he turned
+instinctively upon the road which led to the abode of the evil-minded;
+but if virtuous and good, the other keeper directed him upon the straight
+road; the latter was not much traveled, while the former was so
+frequently trodden that no grass could grow in the pathway. It sometimes
+happens that the keepers have great difficulty in deciding which path the
+person should take, when the good and bad actions of the individual were
+nearly balanced. Those sent to the house of torment sometimes remain one
+day, (which is one year with us); some for a longer period. After they
+have atoned for their sins they pass to heaven; but when they have
+committed either of the great sins, (witchcraft, murder, or infantcide),
+they never pass to heaven, but are tormented forever. Having conducted
+Handsomelake to this place, he saw a large dark-colored mansion,
+covered with soot, and beside it stood a lesser one. One of the four then
+held out his rod, and the top of the house moved up until they could look
+down upon all that was within. He saw many rooms. The first object which
+met his eyes was a haggard-looking man, his sunken eyes cast upon the
+ground, and his form half consumed by the torments he had undergone. This
+man was a drunkard. The evil-minded then appeared and called him by name.
+As the man obeyed his call, he dipped from a caldron a quantity of red-
+hot liquid and commanded him to drink it, as it was an article he loved.
+The man did as he was commanded, and immediately from his mouth issued a
+stream of blaze. He cried in vain for help. The tormentor then requested
+him to sing and make himself merry as he had done while on earth, after
+drinking the firewater. Let drunkards take warning from this. Others were
+then summoned. There came before him two persons who appeared to be
+husband and wife. He told them to exercise the privilege they were so
+fond of while on earth. They immediately commenced a quarrel of words.
+They raged at each other with such violence that their tongues and eyes
+ran out so far they could neither see nor speak. This, said they, is the
+punishment of quarrelsome and disputing husbands and wives. Let such also
+take warning, and lie together in peace and harmony. Next he called up a
+woman who had been a witch. First he plunged her into a caldron of
+boiling liquid. In her cries of distress she begged the evil-minded to
+give her some cooler place. He then immersed her into one containing
+liquid at the point of freezing. Her cries were then that she was too
+cold. This woman, said the four messengers, shall always be tormented in
+this manner. He proceeded to mention the punishment which awaits all
+those who cruelly ill-treat their wives. The evil-minded next called up a
+man who had been accustomed to beat his wife. Having led him up to a red-
+hot statue of a woman, he directed him to do that which he was fond of
+while upon earth. He obeyed, and struck the figure. The sparks flew in
+every direction, and by the contact his arm was consumed. Such is the
+punishment, they said, awaiting those who ill-treat their wives. From
+this take seasonable warning. He looked again and saw a woman, whose arms
+and hands were nothing but bones. She had sold firewater to the Indians,
+and the flesh was eaten from her hands and arms. This, they said, would
+be the fate of rum-sellers. Again he looked, and in one apartment saw and
+recognized Ho-ne-ya-wus (farmer's brother), his former friend. He was
+engaged in removing a heap of sand, grain by grain, and although he
+labored continually, yet the heap was not diminished. This, they said,
+was the punishment of those who sold land. Adjacent to the house of
+torment was a field of corn filled with weeds. He saw a woman in the
+act of cutting them down, but as fast as this was done they grew up
+again. This, they said, was the punishment of lazy women. It would be
+proper and right, had we time, to tell more of this place of punishment,
+but my time is limited and must pass to other things.
+
+"The Creator made men dependent upon each other. He made them sociable
+beings: therefore, when your neighbors visit you set food before them. If
+it be your next door neighbor, you must give him to eat. He will partake
+and thank you."
+
+"Again they said, 'You must not steal.' Should you want for anything
+necessary, you have only to tell your wants and they will be supplied.
+This is right. Let none ever steal anything. Children are often tempted
+to take things home which do not belong to them. Let parents instruct
+their children in this rule.
+
+"Many of our people live to a very old age. Your Creator says that your
+deportment toward them must be that of reverence and affection. They
+have seen and felt much of the miseries and pains of earth. Be always
+kind to them when old and helpless. Wash their hands and face and nurse
+them with care. This is the will of the Great Spirit.
+
+"It has been the custom among us to mourn for the dead one year. This
+custom is wrong. As it causes the death of many children, it must be
+abandoned. Ten days mourn for the dead, and not longer. When one dies, it
+is right and proper to make an address over the body, telling how much
+you loved the deceased. Great respect for the dead must be observed among
+us.
+
+"At another time the four messengers said to Handsomelake that they would
+show him the destroyer of Villages (Washington), of whom you have so
+often heard. Upon the road leading to heaven he could see a light, far
+away in the distance, moving to and fro. Its brightness far exceeded the
+brilliancy of the noonday sun. They told him the journey was as follows:
+First they came to a cold spring, which was a resting place; from this
+point they proceeded into pleasant fairy grounds, which spread away in
+every direction: soon they reached heaven; the light was dazzling:
+berries of every description grew in vast abundance: the size and quality
+were such that a single berry was more than sufficient to appease the
+appetite: a sweet fragrance perfumed the air; fruits of every kind met
+the eye. The inmates of this celestial abode spent their time in
+amusement and repose. No evil could enter there. None in heaven ever
+transgress again: families are reunited and dwell together in harmony:
+they possessed a bodily form, the senses and the remembrance of earthly
+life; but no white man ever enters heaven. Thus they said. He looked and
+saw an inclosure upon a plain, just without the entrance of heaven.
+Within it was a fort. Here he saw the 'destroyer of villages,' walking to
+and fro within the inclosure. His countenance indicated a great and good
+man. They said to Handsomelake, 'The man you see is the only pale face
+that ever left the earth; he was kind to you when on the settlement of
+the great difficulty between the Americans and the Great Crown (Great
+Britain), you were abandoned to the mercy of your enemies. The Crown told
+the great American that as for his allies, the Indians, he might kill
+them if he liked. The great American judged that this would be cruel and
+unjust; he believed they were made by the Great Spirit, and were entitled
+to the enjoyments of life; he was kind to you and extended over you his
+protection: for this reason he has been allowed to leave the earth. But
+he is never permitted to go into the presence of the Great Spirit.
+Although alone, he is perfectly happy. All faithful Indians pass by him
+as they go to heaven. They see him and recognize him, but pass on in
+silence. No words ever pass his lips.
+
+"Frieads and relatives, it was by the influence of this great man that
+we were spared as a people, and yet live. Had he not granted as his
+protection, where would we have been? Perished--all perished.
+
+"The four messengers further said to Handsomelake that they were fearful
+that unless the people repent and obey his consmands, the forbearance and
+patience of the Creator would be exhausted; that He would grow angry
+with them and cause their increase to cease.
+
+"Our Creator, made light and darkness; He made the sun to heat and
+shine over the world; He made the moon, also, to shine by night and to
+cool the world, if the sun make it too hot by day. The keeper of the
+clouds, by direction of the Great Spirit, will then cease to act. The
+keeper of the springs and running brooks will cease to rule them for the
+good of man. The sun will cease to fulfil its office. Total darkness will
+then cover the earth. A great smoke will rise and spread over the face of
+the earth. Then will come out of it all monsters and poisonous animals
+created by the evil-minded, and they, with the wicked upon the earth,
+will perish together.
+
+"But before this dreadful time shall come, the Great Spirit will take
+home to Himself all the good and faithful. They will lay themselves down
+to sleep, and from this sleep of death they will arise and go home to
+their Creator. Thus they said.
+
+"I have done. I close thus, that you may remember and understand the fate
+which awaits the earth, the unfaithful and the unbelieving. Our Creator
+looks down upon us. The four Beings from above see us. They witness with
+pleasure this assemblage, and rejoice at the object for which it is
+gathered. It is now forty-eight years since we first began to listen to
+the renewed will of our Creator. I have been unable, during the time
+alloted to me, to rehearse all the savings of Ga-ne-o-di-yo
+(Handsomelake); I regret very much that you cannot hear them all.
+
+"Counselors, warriors, women and children, I have done. I thank you all
+for your attendance, and for your kind and patient attention. May the
+Great Spirit, who rules all things, watch over and protect you from every
+harm and danger while you travel the journey of life. May the Great
+Spirit bless all, and bestow upon you life health, peace and prosperity:
+and may you in turn appreciate His great goodness. This is all."
+
+
+
+
+Sketches of an Iroquois Council, or Condolence.
+
+In giving the description of the condolence, I have chosen the following
+writings of Mr. G. S. Riley, of Rochester, to-wit:
+
+A grand council of the confederate Iroquois was held Octobcr 1, 1845, at
+the Indian councilhouse, on the Tonawanda reservation, in the county of
+Genesee. Its proceedings occupied three days. It embraced representatives
+from all the six nations--the Mohawk, the Onondaga, the Seneca, the
+Oneida, the Cayuga, and the Tuscarora. It is the only one of the kind
+which has been held for a number of years, and is probably the last which
+will ever be assembled with a full representation of the confederate
+nations.
+
+The Indians from abroad arrived at the council-grounds, or the immediate
+vicinity, two days previous, and one of the most interesting spectacles
+of the occasion was the entry of the different nations upon the domain
+and hospitality of the Senecas, on whose grounds the council was to be
+held. The representation of the Mohawks, coming as they did from Canada,
+was necessarily small. The Onondagas, with acting Todotahhoh, of the
+confederacy, and his two counselors, made an exceedingly creditable
+appearance. Nor was the array of the Tuscaroras, in point of numbers, at
+least, deficient in attractive and improving features.
+
+We called upon and were presented to Black Smith, the most influential
+and authoritative of the Seneca sachems. He is about sixty years old, is
+somewhat portly, is easy enough in his manners, and is well disposed, and
+even kindly towards all who convinced him that they have no sinister
+designs in coming among his people.
+
+Jemmy Johnson is the great high priest of the confederacy. Though now
+sixty-nine years old, he is yet an erect, fine-looking and energetic
+Indian, and is hospitable and intelligent. He is in possession of the
+medal presented by Washington to Red Jacket in 1792, which, among other
+things of interest, he showed us.
+
+It would be imcompatible with the present purpose to describe all the
+interesting men who were assembled, among whom were Captain Frost,
+Messrs. Le Fort, Hill, John Jacket, Dr. Wilson and others. We spent much
+of the time during the week in conversation with the chiefs and most
+intelligent Indians of the different nations, and gleaned from them much
+information of the highest interest, in relation to the organization,
+government, laws, religion and customs of the people and characteristics
+of the great men of the old and once powerful confederacy. It is a
+singular fact, that the peculiar government and national characteristics
+of the Iroquois is a most interesting field of research and inquiry,
+which has never been very thoroughly, if at all, investigated, although
+the historic events which marked the proud career of the confederacy have
+been perseveringly sought and treasured up in the writings of Stone,
+Schoolcraft, Hosmer, Yates and others.
+
+Many of the Indians speak English readily, but with the aid and
+interpretations of Mr. Ely S. Parker, a young Seneca of no ordinary
+degree of attainment in both scholarship and general inteligence, and
+who, with Le Fort, the Onondaga, is well versed in old Iroquois matters,
+we had no difficulty in conversing with any and all we chose to.
+
+About midday on Wednesday, October 1, the council commenced. The
+ceremonies with which it was opened and conducted were certainly unique--
+almost indescribable; and as its proceedings were in the Seneca tongue,
+they were in a great measure unintelligible, and in fact, profoundly
+mysterious to the pale faces. One of the chief objects for which the
+council had been convoked, was to fill two vacancies in the Sachems of
+the Senecas, which had been made by the death of the former incumbents;
+and preceding the installation of the candidates for the succession there
+was a general and dolorous lament for the deceased Sachems, the utterance
+of which, together with the repetition of the laws of the confederacy,
+the installation of the new Sachems, the impeachment and disposition of
+three unfaithful Sachems, the elevation of others in their stead, and the
+performance of the various ceremonies attendant upon these proceedings,
+consumed the principal part of the afternoon.
+
+At the setting of the sun a bountiful repast, consisting of an
+innumerable number of rather formidable looking chunks of boiled fresh
+beef, and abundance of bread and succotash, was brought into the council
+house. The manner of saying grace on this occasion was indeed peculiar. A
+kettle being brought, hot and smoking from the fire, and placed in the
+center of the council house, there proceeded from a single person, in a
+high shrill key, a prolonged and monotonous sound, resembling that of the
+syllable _wah_ or _yah_. This was immediately followed by a
+responsive but protracted tone, the syllable _whe_ or _swe_,
+and this concluded grace. It was impossible not to be somewhat mirthfully
+affected at the first hearing of grace said in this novel manner. It is,
+however, pleasurable to reflect that the Indians recognize the duty of
+rendering thanks to the Divine Being in some formal way for the bounties
+and enjoyments which He bestows; and, were an Indian to attend a public
+feast among his pace faced brethren, he would be affected perhaps to a
+greater degree of marvel at witnessing a total neglect of this ceremony
+than we were at his singular way of performing it.
+
+After supper commenced the dances. All day Tuesday and on Wednesday, up
+to the time that the places of the deceased Sachems had been filled,
+everything like undue joyfulness had been restrained. This was required
+by the respect customarily due to the distinguished dead. But now the
+bereaved Sachems being again filled, all were to give utterance of
+gladness and joy. A short speech by Capt. Frost, introductory to the
+enjoyments of the evening, was received with acclamatory approbation, and
+soon eighty or ninety of these sons and daughters of the forest--the old
+men and the young, the maidens and the matrons--were engaged in the
+dance. It was indeed a rare sight.
+
+Only two varieties of dancing were introduced the first evening, the
+trotting dance and the fish dance. The figures of either are exceedingly
+simple, and but slightly different from each other. In the first named,
+the dancers all move round a circle in a single file, keeping time in a
+sort of trotting step to an Indian song of yo-ho-ha, or yo-ho-ha-ha-ho,
+as sung by the leader, or occasionally by all conjoined. In the other,
+there is the same movement in single file round a circle, but every two
+persons, a man and a woman, or two men, face each other, the one moving
+forward, the other backward, and all keeping step to the music of the
+singers, who are now, however, aided by a a couple of tortoise or turtle
+shell rattlers, or an aboriginal drum. At regular intervals there is a
+sort of cadence in the music, during which a change of position by all
+the couples takes place, the one who had been moving backward taking the
+place of the one moving forward, when all again move onward, one-half of
+the whole, of course, being obliged to follow on by dancing backwards.
+
+One peculiarity in Indian dancing would probably strongly commend itself
+to that class among pale faced beau and belles denominated bashful;
+though, perhaps, it would not suit others as well. The men, or a number
+of them, usually begin the dance alone, and the women, or each of them,
+selecting the one with whom she would like to dance, presents herself at
+his side as he approaches and is immediately received into the circle.
+Consequently, the young Indian beau knows nothing of the tact required to
+handsomely invite and gallantly lead a lady to the dance; and the young
+Indian maiden, unannoyed by obnoxious offers, at her own convenience,
+gracefully presents her personage to the one she designs to favor, and
+thus quietly engages herself in the dance. And moreover, while an Indian
+beau is not necessarily obliged to exhibit any gallantry as towards a
+belle till she has herself manifested her own good pleasure in the
+matter; so, therefore, the belle cannot indulge herself in vascilant
+flirtations with any considerable number of beaux without being at once
+detected.
+
+On Thursday the religious ceremonies commenced, and the council from the
+time it assembled, which was about 11 o'clock A. M., till 3 or 4 o'clock
+P. M., gave the most serious attention to the preaching of Jimmy Johnson,
+the great high priest, and the second in the succession under the new
+revelation. Though there are some evangelical believers among the
+Indians, the greater portion of them cherish the religion of their
+fathers. This, as they say, has been somewhat changed by the new
+revelation, which the Great Spirit made to one of their prophets about
+forty-seven years ago, and which, as they also believe, was approved by
+Washington.
+
+The profound regard and eneration which the Indians have ever retained
+towards the name and memory of Washington is most interesting evidence of
+his universally appreciated worth, and the fact that the red men regard
+him not merely as one of the best, but as the very best man that ever has
+existed, or that will ever exist, is beautifully illustrated in a
+singular credence which they maintain even to this day, namely, that
+Washington, is the only white man who has ever entered heaven and is the
+only one who will enter there till the end of the world.
+
+Among the Senecas public religious exercises takes place but once a year.
+At these times Jimmy Johnson preaches hour after hour for three days, and
+then rests from any public charge of ecclesiastical offices the remaining
+three hundred and sixty-two days of the year. On this, an unusual
+occasion, he restricted himself to a few hours in each of the last two
+days of the council. We were told by young Parker, who took notes of his
+preaching, that his subject matter on Thursday abounded in good
+teachings, enforced by appropriate and happy illustrations and striking
+imagery. After he had finished the council took a short respite. Soon,
+however, a company of warriors, ready and eager to engage in the
+celebrated corn dance, made their appearance. They were differently
+attired. While some were completely enveloped in a closely-fitting and
+gaudy-colored garb, others, though perhaps without intending it, had made
+wonderfully close approaches to an imitation of the costume said to have
+been so fashionable in many parts of the State of Georgia during the last
+hot summer, and which is also said to have consisted simply of a shirt
+collar and a pair of spurs. But, in truth, these warriors, with shoulders
+and limbs in a state of nudity, with faces bestreaked with paints, with
+jingling trinkets dangling to their knees, and with feathered war caps
+waving above them, presented a truly picturesque and romantic appearance.
+When the center of the council house had been cleared and the musicians
+with the shell rattlers had taken their places, the dance commenced, and
+for an hour and a half--perhaps two hours--it proceeded with surprising
+spirit and energy. Almost every posture of which the human frame is
+susceptible, without absolutely making the feet uppermost and the head
+for once to assume the place of the feet, was exhibited. Some of the
+attitudes of the dancers were really imposing, and the dance as a whole,
+could be got up and conducted only by Indians. The women, in the
+performance of the corn dance are quite by themselves, keeping time to
+the beat of the shells and gliding along sideways, without scarcely
+lifting their feet from the floor.
+
+It would probably be well if the Indian everywhere could be inclined to
+refrain at least from the more grotesque and boisterous peculiarities of
+the dance. The influence of these cannot be productive of any good, and
+it is questionable whether it will be possible, so long as they are
+retained, to assimilate them to any greater degree of civilization, or to
+more refined methods of living and enjoyment than they now possess. The
+same may be said of certain characteristics of the still more Vandalic
+war dance. This, however, was not introduced at the council.
+
+A part of the proceedings of Friday, the last day of the council, bore
+resemblance to those of the preceding day. Jimmy Johnson resumed his
+preaching, at the close of which the corn dance was again performed,
+though with far more spirit and enthusiasm than at the first. Double the
+numbers that then appeared, all hardy and sinewy men, attired in original
+and fantastic style, among whom was one of the chiefs of the confederacy,
+together with forty or fifty women of the different nations, now engaged,
+and for more than two hours persevered in the performance of the various
+complicated and fatigueing movement of this dance. The appearance of the
+dusty throng, with its increased numbers, and of course proportionably
+increased resources for the production of shrill whoops and noisy
+stamping, and for the exhibition of striking attitudes and rampant
+motions, was altogether strange, wonderful and seemingly superhuman.
+
+After the dance had ceased, another kind of sport--a well contested foot
+race--claimed attention. In the evening, after another supper in the
+council house, the more social dances--the troting, the fish, and one in
+which the women alone participated--were resumed. The fish dance seemed
+to be the favorite, and being invited to join in by one of the chiefs, we
+at once accepted the invitation, and followed in mirthful chase of
+pleasure with a hundred forest children. Occasionally the dances are
+characterized with ebulitions of merriment and flashes of real fun, but
+generally a singular sobriety and decorum are observed. Frequently, when
+gazing at a throng of sixty or perhaps one hundred dancers, we have been
+scarcely able to decide which was the most remarkable, the staid and
+imperturable gravity of the old men and women, or the complete absence of
+levity and frolicsomeness in the young.
+
+The social dances of the evening, with occasional speeches from the
+sachems and chiefs, were the final and concluding ceremonies of this
+singular but interesting affair. Saturday morning witnessed the
+separation of the various nations and the departure of each to their
+respective homes.
+
+The writer would liked to have said a word or two or relation to the
+present condition and prospects of the Indians, but the original design
+in regard to both the topics and brevity of this writing having been
+already greatly transcended, it must be deferred. The once powerful
+confederacy of the Six Nations, occupying in its palmy days the greater
+portion of New York State, now number only a little over 3,000. Even this
+remnant will soon be gone. In view of this, as well as of the known fact
+that the Indian race is everywhere gradually diminishing in numbers, the
+writer cannot close without invoking for this unfortunate people renewed
+kindliness, sympathy and benevolent attention. It is true, that with some
+few exceptions, they possess habits and characteristics which render them
+difficult to approach; but still, they are only what the creator of us
+all has made them. And let it be remembered, it must be a large measure
+of kindliness and benevolence that will repay the injustice and wrongs
+that have been inflicted upon them.
+
+
+
+
+ATOTARHO.
+
+Atotarho, who by tradition was an Onondaga, is the great embodiment of
+the Iroquois courage, wisdom and heroism, and he is invested with
+allegoric traits which exalt him to a kind of superhuman character.
+Unequalled in war and arts his fame spread abroad, and exalted the
+Onondaga nation in the highest scale. He was placed at the head of the
+confederacy, and his name was used after his death as an examplar of
+glory and honor. While like that of Caesar, it became perpetuated as the
+official title of the presiding Sachem of the confederacy. He was a man
+of energy and renown. And such was the estimation in which he was held in
+his life time, and the popular veneration for his character after death,
+that, as above denoted, his name became the distinctive title for the
+office, and is not yet extinct, although the tribes have no longer war to
+prosecute or foreign embassadors to reply to.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+IROQUOIS LAWS OF DESCENT.
+
+At the establishment of the confederacy, fifty sachems were founded and
+a name assigned to each, by which they are still known, and these names
+are kept as hereditary from the beginning to the present time. There were
+also fifty sub-sachems, or war chiefs--that is, to every sachem was given
+a war chief, to stand behind him to do his biddings. These sachemships
+were, and are still confined to the five nations; the Tuscaroras were
+admitted into the confederacy without enlarging the framework of the
+league, by allowing them their own sachems and sub-sachems, or war
+chiefs, as they inherited from their original nation of North Carolina.
+
+But how, it may be asked, is a government so purely popular and so simple
+and essentially advisory in its character, to be reconciled with the laws
+of hereditary descent, fixed by the establishment of heraldic devices and
+bringing its proportion of weak and incompetent minds into office, and
+with the actual power it exercised and the fame it acquired. To answer
+this question, and to show how the aristocratic and democratic principles
+were made to harmonize in the Iroquois government, it will be necessary
+to go back and examine the laws of descent among the tribes, together
+with the curious and intricate principles of the clans or tribal bond.
+
+Nothing is more fully under the cognizance of observers of the manners
+and customs of the Indians, than the fact of the entire nation or tribe
+being separated into distinct clans, each of them distinguished by the
+name and device of some quadruped, bird, or other object in the animal
+kingdom. This device is called by the Tuscaroras Or-reak-sa (clan). The
+Iroquois have turned it to account by assuming it as the very basis of
+their political and tribal bond.
+
+A government wholly verbal must be conceded to have required this
+proximity and nearness of access. The original five nations of the
+Iroquois were, theoretically, separated into eight clans or original
+families of kindreds, who are distinguished respectively by the clans of
+the wolf, bear, turtle, deer, beaver, falcon, crane and the plover. I
+find that there is a little difference in the clans of the Tuscaroras,
+which are the bear, wolf, turtle, beaver, deer, eel and snipe. It is
+contrary to the usage of the Indians that near kindred should intermarry,
+and the ancient rule interdicts all intermarriage between persons of the
+same clan. They must marry into a clan which is different from their own.
+A Bear or Wolf male cannot marry a Bear or Wolf female. By this custom
+the purity of blood is preserved, while the ties of relationship between
+the clans themselves is strengthened or enlarged.
+
+The line of descent is limited exclusively in the female's children.
+Owing to this arrangement, a chieftain's son cannot succeed him in
+office, but in case of his death, the right of descent being in his
+mother, he would be succeeded, not by one of his male children, but by
+his brother; or failing in this then by the son of his sister, or by some
+direct, however remote, descendent of a maternal line.
+
+It will be noticed that the children are not of the same clan as their
+father, but are the same as their mother. Thus, he might be succeeded by
+his own grandson, by the son marrying in his father's clan, and not by
+his daughter. It is in this way that the chieftainship is continually
+kept in a family dynasties in the female line.
+
+While the law of descent is fully recognized, the free will of the female
+to choose a husband from any of the clans, excluding only her own, is
+made to govern and determine the distribution of political power, and to
+fix the political character of the tribe. Another peculiarity may be here
+stated. In choosing a candidate to fill a vacancy of the chieftainship,
+made either by death or misconduct, the power is lodged in the older
+women of the clan to choose the candidate, and then to be submitted for
+the recognition of the chiefs and sachems in council, for the whole
+nation. If approved, a day is appointed for the recognition also of the
+Six Nations, and he is formally installed into office. Incapacity is
+always, however, without exception, recognized as a valid objection to
+the approval of the council.
+
+
+
+
+LEGENDARY.
+
+On long winter evening the Indian hunters gatherd around their fireside,
+to listen to the historical traditions, legends of war and hunting, and
+fairy tales which had been handed down through their fathers and father's
+fathers, with scarcely any variation for centuries, kindling the
+enthusiasm of the warrior and inspiring the little child some day to
+realize similar dreams, and hand his name down to posterity as the author
+of similar exploits.
+
+They have superstitious fears of relating fables in summer: not until
+after snow comes will they relate of snakes, lest they should creep into
+their beds, or of evil genii, lest they in some way be revenged.
+
+It is very difficult for a stranger to rightly understand the morals of
+their stories, though it is said by those who know them best, that to
+them the story was always an illustration of some moral or principle.
+
+To strangers they offer all the rites of hospitality, but do not open
+their hearts. If you ask them they will tell you a story, but it will not
+be such a story as they tell when alone. They will fear your ridicule and
+suppress their humor and pathos: so thoroughly have they learned to
+distrust pale faces, that when they know that he who is present is a
+friend, they will still shrink from admitting him within the secret
+portals of their heart.
+
+And when you have learned all that language can convey, there are still a
+thousand images, suggestions and associations recurring to the Indian,
+which can strike no chord in your heart. The myriad voices of nature are
+dumb to you, but to them they are full of life and power.
+
+
+NO. 1.--THE HUNTER AND MEDICINE LEGEND.
+
+There once lived a man who was a great hunter. His generosity was the
+theme of praise in all the country, for he not only supplied his own
+family with food, but distributed game among his friends and neighbors,
+and even called the birds and animals of the forest to partake of his
+abundance. For this reason he received the appellation of "Protector of
+Birds and Animals."
+
+He lived a hunter's life till war broke out between his own and some
+distant nation, and then he took the war path. He was as brave a warrior
+as he was a skillful hunter, and slew a great multitude of the enemy,
+till all were lying dead around him, except one, who was a _mighty man
+of valor_, and in an unguarded moment the hunter received a blow from
+his tomahawk on the head, which felled him to the earth; his enemy then
+took his scalp and fled.
+
+Some of his own party saw what befell him, and supposing him dead left
+him on the field of battle; but a fox who had wandered this way
+immediately recognized his benefactor. Sorrowful indeed, was he to find
+him thus slain, and began to revolve in his mind some means of restoring
+him to life. "Perhaps," said he, "some of my friends may know of a
+medicine by which his wounds may be healed, and he may live again." So
+saying, he ran into the forest and uttered the "death lament," which was
+the signal for all the animals to congregate. From far and near they
+came, till hundreds and thousands of every kind had assembled around the
+body of the hunter, eagerly inquiring what had happened. The fox
+explained he had accidentally came that way and found their friend
+stretched lifeless upon the earth. The animals drew near and examined him
+more closely, to be sure that life was extinct; they rolled him over and
+over on the ground and were satisfied that he was dead, there was not a
+single sign of life.
+
+Then they held a grand council of which the bear was the speaker. When
+all were ready to listen, he asked if any one present was acquainted with
+any medicine which would restore the dead man to life. With great
+alacrity each one examined his medicine box, but finds nothing adapted to
+this purpose. Being defeated in their noble object of restoring their
+friend, all join in a mournful howl--a requiem for the dead. This
+attracted a singing bird, the oriole, who came quietly to learn the cause
+of the assembling of the great concourse and their profound lamentation.
+The bear made known the calamity which had befallen them, and as the
+birds would feel themselves equally afflicted, he requested the oriole to
+fly away and invite all the feathered tribes to come to the council and
+see if their united wisdom cannot devise a remedy that will restore their
+friend to life.
+
+Soon were assembled all the birds of the air, even the great eagle of the
+Iroquois, which was seldom induced to appear upon the earth, hastens to
+pay her respects to the remains of the renowned and benevolent hunter.
+All being satisfied that he was really dead, the united council of birds
+and animals, which remained convened, decided that his scalp must be
+recovered, saying that any bird or animal who pleased might volunteer to
+go on this mission. The fox was the first to offer his services and
+departed full of hope that his zeal would be crowned with success. But
+after many days he returned, saying he could find no trace of man's
+footsteps, not a chick or child belonged to any settlement The great love
+which they bore their friend prompted several others to go upon the same
+mission, and to the animals belonged the first right as they had first
+found him; but at length the birds were anxious to show their devotion
+and the pigeon hawk begged leave to make the first flight, as he was more
+swift of wing than any other and could visit the whole world in the
+shortest space of time. They had scarcely missed him when he returned: he
+said he had been over the entire earth and found it not. They did not
+consider his voyage satisfactory, as he had flown so swiftly that it was
+impossible for him to see anything distinctly by the way.
+
+Next the white heron proposed that he be sent, because of being so slow
+of wing he could see every object as he passed. On his aerial voyage he
+discovered a plain covered with the vines of the wild bean, laden with
+the delicious fruit; it was too great a temptation for him to resist, and
+he descended to enjoy a feast. So gluttonously did he partake that he
+could not rise again from the earth, and the council after many days of
+anxious waiting, called for a substitute. Here the crow came forward and
+acknowledged his fitness for such, an office, as he was also slow of wing
+and was accustomed to hover settlements and discern them afar off, he
+would not be suspected of any particular design should he linger near the
+one that contained the scalp.
+
+The warrior who possessed the coveted treasure knew the birds and animals
+were holding council on the field of battle to devise means to recover
+it, but when the crow drew near he was not alarmed. The smoke of the
+wigwams indicated a settlement and as the crow sailed lazily through the
+air at a great height above the roofs of the cabins, he espied the scalp
+which he knew must be the one he sought, stretched out to dry.
+
+After various unsuccessful strategems, he was able to seize it, and flew
+away to exhibit his trophy to the council.
+
+Now, they attempted to fit it to his head, but, being dry, it was
+impossible; so search was made to find something with which to moisten
+it, but in vain. Then slowly moved forward the great eagle, and bids them
+listen to his words.
+
+"My wings are never furled; night and day, for years and hundreds of
+years, the dews of heaven have been collected upon my back, as I sat in
+my nest above the clouds. Perhaps these waters may have a virtue no
+earthly fountain can possess, we will see."
+
+Then she plucked a feather from her wing and dipped it in the dewey
+elixir, which was then applied to the shriveled scalp, and lo! it became
+pliable and fresh as if just removed. Now it would fit, but there must be
+a healing power to cause the flesh to unite, and again to awaken life.
+
+All were anxious to do something in the great work, therefore all went
+forth to bring rare leaves, flowers, barks, the flesh of animals and the
+brain of birds, to form a healing mixture. When they returned it was
+prepared, and having been moisted with the dew, was applied to the scalp,
+and instantly adhered to it and became firm. This caused the hunter to
+sit up; he looked around in astonishment upon his numerous friends,
+unable to divine the meaning of so strange an assemblage.
+
+Then they bade him stand upon his feet and told him how he was found dead
+upon the plain and how great was the lamentation of all those who had so
+long experienced his kindness, and the efforts they had made to restore
+him to life. They then gave him the compound which had been the means of
+restoring him to life, saying, "it was the gift of the Great Spirit to
+man. He alone had directed them in the affairs of the council, had
+brought the eagle to furnish the heavenly moisture, and gave them wisdom
+in making the preparation, that they might furnish to man a medicine
+which should be effectual for every wound."
+
+When they had finished the animals departed to their forest haunts, the
+eagle soared again to his eyrie, and the birds of the air flew away to
+their nests in the tall trees, all happy and rejoicing that they had
+accomplished this great good.
+
+The hunter returned to his home and spread abroad the news of the miracle
+and the knowledge of the wonderful medicine, which is used to this day
+among the Iroquois by those who are the favorites of the Great Spirit.
+
+
+NO. 2.
+
+An Indian hunter went forth to hunt, and as he wandered through the
+forest he heard a strain of beautiful music far off among the trees. He
+listened, but could not tell whence it came; he knew it could not be by
+any human voice, or from any instrument he had ever heard. As it came
+near it ceased. The next evening he went forth again, but he heard no
+music, and again, but in van.
+
+Then came the Great Spirit to him in a dream and told him to fast, wash
+himself till he was purified, then he might go forth and would hear again
+the music. So he purified himself and went again among the dark trees of
+the forest, and soon his ear caught the sweet strains, as he drew near
+they became more beautiful; he listened till he learned them and could
+make the same sweet sound, then he knew that it was a plant with a tall
+green stem and long tapering leaves. He took his knife and cut the stalk,
+but ere he had scarcely finished, it healed and was the same as before;
+he cut it again, and again it healed. Then he knew it would heal
+diseases, he took it home, dried it by the fire, pulverized it, and
+applied a few particles of it to a dangerous wound; no sooner had it
+touched the wound than it was healed. Thus the Great Spirit taught the
+Indian the nature of medicinal plants, and directed him where they were
+to be found, when and how used.
+
+
+MEDICINE LEGENDS.
+
+The two above are the legends concerning the principal medicines used
+among the Iroquois. The ancient manner of administering them, was to take
+a small wooden goblet and go to a running stream, dipping toward the way
+which the stream ran, fill the goblet and return, place it near the fire
+with some tobacco near it; a prayer is offered while tobacco is thrown
+upon the fire, that the words may ascend upon the smoke.
+
+The medicine is placed on a piece of skin near the goblet, being very
+finely pulverized, is taken up with a wooden spoon and dusted upon the
+water in three spots, in the form of a triangle, thus--
+
+ *
+* *
+
+The medicine man then looks at it critically, if it spreads over the
+surface of the water and whirls about, it is a sign that the invalid will
+be healed; if it sinks directly in the places where it was put, there is
+no hope, the sick person must die and the whole is thrown away.
+
+Once in six months there is a great feast made, at the hunting season in
+fall and spring. On the night of the feast as soon as it is dark, all who
+are present assemble in one room, where no light or fire is allowed to
+burn, and placing the medicine near the covered embers, the tobacco by
+its side, they commence singing, which proclaims that the crows are
+coming to their feast, and also many other birds and various animals,
+the brains of whose species form part of their medicine. At the end of
+the song some one imitates the caw of a crow, the songs of the birds, the
+howls of the wolf, etc., as if the animals were present.
+
+Three times in the course of the night they offer a prayer, while
+throwing tobacco on the smothered flames, asking that the people may be
+protected from all harm, and if they receive wounds that the medicine may
+be effectual in healing them.
+
+At the commencement of the ceremonies the doors are locked, and no one
+is allowed to enter or leave the house while they continue; neither is
+any one allowed to sleep, as that would spoil the medicine. The feast
+begins just before the dawn of day. The master of ceremonies first takes
+a deer's head, bites off a piece, imitates the cry of a crow and passes
+the head of the animal to another, who does the same, till all have
+tasted and imitated the peculiar note of some bird or animal.
+
+As soon as it begins to be light the presiding officer takes a duck's
+bill, and dipping it full of the medicine, gives it to each one present,
+who puts it in a bit of skin and wraps it in several coverings, keeps it
+carefully until the next semi-annual feast. The skin of a panther is
+preferred for the first envelope if it can be obtained.
+
+Those who take part in the ceremonies are medicine men. Chiefs are
+allowed to be present; also, any who have been cured of any disease by
+the medicine.
+
+Without the building the young people gather for merriment, and the
+fragments of the feast are given to them when it is finished.
+
+When the medicine described in the second legend is used, the tune is
+sung which was heard at its discovery, both at the ceremonies of the
+feast and the time of administering it.
+
+They seem to think the ceremonies effectual in making the medicinal
+qualities of the compound imperishable. Each medicine man has a large
+quantity which he keeps in a bag, and in order not to exhaust the whole,
+now and then, adds pulverized corn roots, squash vines, etc., and
+whenever it is administered several persons assemble and sing. Both kinds
+are considered especially useful in healing wounds received in war.
+
+In reading the first legend there will be seen very humorous allusions to
+the habits of the pigeon, heron and crow, and there is a curious
+invention inspiring faith in the means used in healing. I have seen many
+who affirmed that they had tested the wonderful powers of each.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+
+
+CIVILIZATION.
+
+Whatever may be the theories on the subject of Indian civilization, I
+think it must be evident that the present position of the Tuscarora
+nation on their reservation, is extremely favorable for the attainment of
+that object. They can no longer live by the chase. It is not now with
+them as it was with the Indians on the Delaware, when William Penn said,
+"their pleasures feed them--hunting, fishing and fowling." Surrounded by
+the white settlements, placed in the vicinity of cities and towns, they
+are obliged to apply to agriculture and other modes of labor, for the
+means of subsistence. They are now building good houses, planting
+orchards of various kinds of fruit, raising stock, etc.; they have horses
+and carriages. Artificial wants--the very pillars of civilization--are
+increasing upon them. These require exertion, call into action their
+mental faculties, force them to provide for coming exigencies, gradually
+tames down their wild nature, and prepares them for that subdued, but
+improved state, in which alone is to be found the highest point of
+cultivation, as well as the highest enjoyment intended for man in this
+probationary world.
+
+If this experiment fails, we may, with melancholy, certainly look forward
+to a period when this futile branch of the human family shall be swept
+into oblivion, when the fine sounding names of the lofty mountains, the
+noble rivers, the splendid cataracts, the great inland seas and the
+silvery lakes will be the sole memorials of a race, that, only two or
+three centuries ago, covered the face of this vast continent.
+
+On the other hand, if this experiment should succeed, it will open a door
+of hope for the preservation, or if we may use the term, physical
+salvation of this apparently doomed race. It may encourage the
+philanthrophist to stretch forth his hand for the protection of the yet
+remaining tribes beyond the Mississippi; and the child may already be
+born, who will live to behold that vast wilderness thickly dotted over
+with Indian communities, with towns, villages, farms and manufacturing
+hamlets. They may live to see the hoe and the spade take the place of the
+bow and the tomahawk; the lion and the lamb feeding together; the sword
+beaten into a plowshare, and the spear into a pruning hook.
+
+
+
+
+DOMESTIC.
+
+In the first place, to women, in every well regulated society, should be
+committed the management of the families and the business connected with
+the household concerns, and they should be qualified to exercise a
+salutary influence within their appropriate sphere.
+
+Secondly, as mothers they are responsible for the nursing and rearing of
+their children and for the proper sustenance of them in early life. They
+are also responsible for the habits of their children, including
+cleanliness and general propriety of behavior.
+
+A sensible, judicious mother can greatly control her children in these
+matters; she can make them modest or impertinent, ingenuous or deceitful,
+fearful or intrepid. The germ of all these traits of character exist in
+childhood, and a mother can repress or strengthen them.
+
+Thirdly, a mother is responsible for the principles her children may
+entertain in early life, and it is for her to say whether they shall be
+imbued with sentiments of honesty, industry and morality, or with those
+of a contrary character--fraud, idleness and dishonesty.
+
+She is, to a very considerable extent responsible for the temper and
+disposition of her children. Constitutionally he may be irritable or
+revengeful, but she may correct or repress these passions and in their
+places instil better feelings.
+
+Lastly, and above all, she is responsible for the religious education of
+her children. The beginning of wisdom is a reverence for our creator, and
+obedience to his requirings; and this is within the power of every good
+mother to inculcate and cherish in the hearts of her children; at the
+same time it is the most important duty she owes them, and their
+usefulness and character throughout life may depend upon her correct and
+faithful discharge of it.
+
+If these be the appropriate duties and obligations of a mother, will it
+not be vain to expect that the Indian warrior will be qualified for that
+station, or that they will be in a condition to give a proper education
+to their children, or train them up in habits or principles that will
+render them intelligent and good citizens, whilst they themselves are
+left in ignorance, and while, instead of devoting their time and
+attention to his discharge of these high moral duties, they are held in a
+state of servile degradation and compelled to perform all the menial
+drudgeries of life?
+
+Women are created by Providence equal to men in everything except mere
+physical strength. Generally, they have much more discretion, and
+certainly are far more virtuous. They were designed to exercise a
+conservative influence in society and should be placed in a position
+which would enable them to fulfill this-most important office; for
+history confirms the deeply interesting fact, that no people ever yet
+were elevated to the rank of civilization, while their females were held
+in a servile condition, and we are also admonished by experience, that no
+community can be virtuous and happy, which is not chastened by the
+controlling example of female delicacy and refinement.
+
+These views are submitted to the consideration of the Tuscaroras, in the
+hope that they will receive their serious attention, and lead to the
+adoption of an improved and proper division of the employments, both of
+the men and women of the nation; especially to the extension of more care
+towards the suitable education of their females, and the consequent
+elevation of the Tuscarora women to their appropriate station and
+dignity, as the wives and rational companions of intelligent and educated
+husbands.
+
+In my communications, I have not felt it my duty to call your attention
+to any particular forms or observances in relation to your religious
+obligations. I believe that God is a spirit, and true worship to Him can
+only be performed in spirit and in truth. I also believe that however
+diversified the human family may be in regard to the circumstances in
+which they may be placed, all stand equally before their creator, as
+objects of His care and personal regard; in His great mercy He visits us
+with remorse and sadness, when we have wilfully done what we know to be
+wrong, and which, if persisted in, might lead us to destruction; and it
+is He who fills our hearts with peace and consolation when we do that
+which we believe to be right. His goodness is not limited to any people
+or place nor, is that adoration which is due to Him confined within
+temples built with human hands, or restricted to any particular form; He
+is everywhere present and in every place; the incense of a pious, devoted
+heart, may acceptably be offered to Him in the rude homes of the red man.
+
+The plants of the earth are not more directly under the influences of the
+natural light and warmth by which they are nourished, than is the
+immortal soul or spirit of man under the immediate care and sustaining
+support of the divine presence, which is always near and round about us;
+for it is in Him we live, and move, and have our existence.
+
+Deeply impressed with the certainty of these truths, and fully believing
+He will never fail to lead in the paths of safety and peace, those who
+sincerely look to Him for instruction and faithfully follow His counsel,
+I recommend you, with myself, carefully to attend to His manifestations
+of light and truth upon our minds, which will never deceive nor mslead,
+but, if obeyed, wisely conduct us through the dangers of this life, and
+finally will prepare us for a happy admission into the realms of eternal
+rest.
+
+
+
+
+Osteological Remains.
+
+"In the town of Cambria, six miles west of Lockport, a Mr. Hammon, who
+was employed with his boy in hoeing corn, in 1824, observed some bones of
+a child, exhumed. No farther thought was bestowed upon the subject for a
+time, for the plain of the Ridge was supposed to have been the site of an
+Indian village, and this was supposed to be the remains of some child who
+had been recently buried there. Eli Bruce, hearing of the circumstance,
+proposed to Mr. H. that they should repair to the spot, with suitable
+instruments, and endeavor to find some relics. The soil was a light loam,
+which would be dry and preserve bones for centuries without decay. A
+search enabled them to come to a pit but a slight distance from the
+surface. The top of the pit was covered with small slabs of the Medina
+sandstone, and was twenty-four feet square, four and a half feet deep,
+planes agreeing with the four cardinal points. It was filled with human
+bones of both sexes and ages. They dug down at one extremity and found
+the same layers to extend to the bottom, which was the dry loam, and from
+their calculations, they deduced that at least four thousand souls had
+perished in one great massacre. In one skull two flint arrow-heads were
+found, and many had the appearance of having been fractured and cleft
+open by a sudden blow. They were piled in regular layers, but with no
+regard to size or sex. Pieces of pottery were picked up in the pit, and
+had also been plowed up in the field adjacent. Traces of a log council
+house were plainly discernable. For, in an oblong square, the soil was
+poor, as if it had been cultivated, till the whites broke it up, and
+where the logs of the house had decayed, was a strip of rich mould. A
+maple tree, over the pit, being cut down, two hundred and fifty
+concentric circles were counted, making the mound to be A. D. 1574.
+It has been supposed by the villagers that the bones were deposited there
+before the discovery of America, but the finding of some metal tools with
+a French stamp, placed the date within our period. One hundred and fifty
+persons a day visited this spot the first season, and carried off
+portions of the bones. They are now nearly all gone and the pit plowed
+over. Will any antiquarian inform us, if possible, why these bones were
+placed here? To what tribe do they belong? When did such a massacre
+occur?"
+
+The above is taken from the writings of Mr. Schoolscraft. On account of
+the questions above, I propose to give a tradition, (which the Tuscaroras
+have preserved,) to give the antiquarians and critics a question to
+solve. Was the great massacre above made in the circumstance of the
+tradition below, to wit: There was a settlement or Indian nation where
+appeared several white men under the cloak of missionaries, (the reason I
+use the term cloak is by the way it terminated), and preached to them the
+gospel of Jesus Christ, and the great love evinced by the Father in
+sending his only son to suffer and die on the cross to redeem the red
+children of nature, as well as the pale faces, from their degradation,
+shame and woe, to that of endless felicity beyond the shores of time. And
+that they wished to erect a house of worship in their midst, in which
+they might do their oblation to the Great Spirit, and that if they
+embraced the gospel they would have annuities from the government, to all
+of which the simple people of the forest made their assent. They
+immediately went to work, dug for the cellar, and erected the building on
+abutments of wood, and alleged that they would finish the cellar
+afterwards. When the chapel was finished the Indians began to worship in
+it. Now the time of the annuity arrived. The Indians were told to all
+congregate and into the church, men, women and children, and all those
+who refused to enter, should be omitted in the distribution of the
+annuity. Consequently the building was entered by them and filled jammed
+full. But there were two suspecting Indians who kept a proper distance
+away, ambushed, to see the result. After it was thought all had entered,
+there was a company of soldiers with guns and burning faggots, surrounded
+the building and set it on fire on all sides, after they had fastened the
+door. In this condition they all perished within the flames. I will not
+make any attempt to give a sketch or in any way write in words the
+horrors and heart-rendings cries and moans of the dying children of
+nature in the flames, through a disguise of sheep's clothing, but will
+leave it to the conjecture of the reader.
+
+After the flames had subsided, these two Indians repaired to the doomed
+spot, and found a heap of bones hob-nob, and they observed that some of
+the skulls and bones of the different parts of the body were fractured
+and broke open, supposed to have been done by, the falling timbers of the
+burning house. It is said, "in one skull, two flint arrow-heads were
+found." How easy for the artifice of the white men that accomplished the
+massacre in the manner they did, to have sunk these two flint arrows into
+one of those skulls, to leave the conjecture in after times to have been
+done by an Indian war.
+
+Mr. C. P. Turner, with an honorable age of 72 years, in 1878. told me
+that he visited the deposit of these bones, the next day after they were
+uncovered, saw the skull with the two flint arrows in it, and saw the
+great deposit of bones in this mound, and also said the pile was in hap-
+hazard, and not "in regular layers," as stated above. He also saw bones
+which indicated being those of a child about 20 inches in height.
+
+The Tuscaroras who preserve this tradition are located in the vicinity in
+which this mound of bones were found. All historians are very cautious to
+leave out or omit from the pages of their history, any circumstance in
+the nature of the above tradition.
+
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, LEGENDS, TRADITIONS, AND LAWS OF THE IROQUOIS, OR SIX NATIONS, AND HISTORY OF THE TUSCARORA INDIANS ***
+
+This file should be named 7978.txt or 7978.zip
+
+Project Gutenberg eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the US
+unless a copyright notice is included.  Thus, we usually do not
+keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition.
+
+We are now trying to release all our eBooks one year in advance
+of the official release dates, leaving time for better editing.
+Please be encouraged to tell us about any error or corrections,
+even years after the official publication date.
+
+Please note neither this listing nor its contents are final til
+midnight of the last day of the month of any such announcement.
+The official release date of all Project Gutenberg eBooks is at
+Midnight, Central Time, of the last day of the stated month.  A
+preliminary version may often be posted for suggestion, comment
+and editing by those who wish to do so.
+
+Most people start at our Web sites at:
+https://gutenberg.org or
+http://promo.net/pg
+
+These Web sites include award-winning information about Project
+Gutenberg, including how to donate, how to help produce our new
+eBooks, and how to subscribe to our email newsletter (free!).
+
+
+Those of you who want to download any eBook before announcement
+can get to them as follows, and just download by date.  This is
+also a good way to get them instantly upon announcement, as the
+indexes our cataloguers produce obviously take a while after an
+announcement goes out in the Project Gutenberg Newsletter.
+
+http://www.ibiblio.org/gutenberg/etext05 or
+ftp://ftp.ibiblio.org/pub/docs/books/gutenberg/etext05
+
+Or /etext04, 03, 02, 01, 00, 99, 98, 97, 96, 95, 94, 93, 92, 92,
+91 or 90
+
+Just search by the first five letters of the filename you want,
+as it appears in our Newsletters.
+
+
+Information about Project Gutenberg (one page)
+
+We produce about two million dollars for each hour we work.  The
+time it takes us, a rather conservative estimate, is fifty hours
+to get any eBook selected, entered, proofread, edited, copyright
+searched and analyzed, the copyright letters written, etc.   Our
+projected audience is one hundred million readers.  If the value
+per text is nominally estimated at one dollar then we produce $2
+million dollars per hour in 2002 as we release over 100 new text
+files per month:  1240 more eBooks in 2001 for a total of 4000+
+We are already on our way to trying for 2000 more eBooks in 2002
+If they reach just 1-2% of the world's population then the total
+will reach over half a trillion eBooks given away by year's end.
+
+The Goal of Project Gutenberg is to Give Away 1 Trillion eBooks!
+This is ten thousand titles each to one hundred million readers,
+which is only about 4% of the present number of computer users.
+
+Here is the briefest record of our progress (* means estimated):
+
+eBooks Year Month
+
+    1  1971 July
+   10  1991 January
+  100  1994 January
+ 1000  1997 August
+ 1500  1998 October
+ 2000  1999 December
+ 2500  2000 December
+ 3000  2001 November
+ 4000  2001 October/November
+ 6000  2002 December*
+ 9000  2003 November*
+10000  2004 January*
+
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation has been created
+to secure a future for Project Gutenberg into the next millennium.
+
+We need your donations more than ever!
+
+As of February, 2002, contributions are being solicited from people
+and organizations in: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut,
+Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois,
+Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts,
+Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New
+Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio,
+Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South
+Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West
+Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
+
+We have filed in all 50 states now, but these are the only ones
+that have responded.
+
+As the requirements for other states are met, additions to this list
+will be made and fund raising will begin in the additional states.
+Please feel free to ask to check the status of your state.
+
+In answer to various questions we have received on this:
+
+We are constantly working on finishing the paperwork to legally
+request donations in all 50 states.  If your state is not listed and
+you would like to know if we have added it since the list you have,
+just ask.
+
+While we cannot solicit donations from people in states where we are
+not yet registered, we know of no prohibition against accepting
+donations from donors in these states who approach us with an offer to
+donate.
+
+International donations are accepted, but we don't know ANYTHING about
+how to make them tax-deductible, or even if they CAN be made
+deductible, and don't have the staff to handle it even if there are
+ways.
+
+Donations by check or money order may be sent to:
+
+ PROJECT GUTENBERG LITERARY ARCHIVE FOUNDATION
+ 809 North 1500 West
+ Salt Lake City, UT 84116
+
+Contact us if you want to arrange for a wire transfer or payment
+method other than by check or money order.
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation has been approved by
+the US Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization with EIN
+[Employee Identification Number] 64-622154.  Donations are
+tax-deductible to the maximum extent permitted by law.  As fund-raising
+requirements for other states are met, additions to this list will be
+made and fund-raising will begin in the additional states.
+
+We need your donations more than ever!
+
+You can get up to date donation information online at:
+
+https://www.gutenberg.org/donation.html
+
+
+***
+
+If you can't reach Project Gutenberg,
+you can always email directly to:
+
+Michael S. Hart <hart@pobox.com>
+
+Prof. Hart will answer or forward your message.
+
+We would prefer to send you information by email.
+
+
+**The Legal Small Print**
+
+
+(Three Pages)
+
+***START**THE SMALL PRINT!**FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN EBOOKS**START***
+Why is this "Small Print!" statement here? You know: lawyers.
+They tell us you might sue us if there is something wrong with
+your copy of this eBook, even if you got it for free from
+someone other than us, and even if what's wrong is not our
+fault. So, among other things, this "Small Print!" statement
+disclaims most of our liability to you. It also tells you how
+you may distribute copies of this eBook if you want to.
+
+*BEFORE!* YOU USE OR READ THIS EBOOK
+By using or reading any part of this PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm
+eBook, you indicate that you understand, agree to and accept
+this "Small Print!" statement. If you do not, you can receive
+a refund of the money (if any) you paid for this eBook by
+sending a request within 30 days of receiving it to the person
+you got it from. If you received this eBook on a physical
+medium (such as a disk), you must return it with your request.
+
+ABOUT PROJECT GUTENBERG-TM EBOOKS
+This PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm eBook, like most PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm eBooks,
+is a "public domain" work distributed by Professor Michael S. Hart
+through the Project Gutenberg Association (the "Project").
+Among other things, this means that no one owns a United States copyright
+on or for this work, so the Project (and you!) can copy and
+distribute it in the United States without permission and
+without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, set forth
+below, apply if you wish to copy and distribute this eBook
+under the "PROJECT GUTENBERG" trademark.
+
+Please do not use the "PROJECT GUTENBERG" trademark to market
+any commercial products without permission.
+
+To create these eBooks, the Project expends considerable
+efforts to identify, transcribe and proofread public domain
+works. Despite these efforts, the Project's eBooks and any
+medium they may be on may contain "Defects". Among other
+things, Defects may take the form of incomplete, inaccurate or
+corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other
+intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged
+disk or other eBook medium, a computer virus, or computer
+codes that damage or cannot be read by your equipment.
+
+LIMITED WARRANTY; DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES
+But for the "Right of Replacement or Refund" described below,
+[1] Michael Hart and the Foundation (and any other party you may
+receive this eBook from as a PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm eBook) disclaims
+all liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including
+legal fees, and [2] YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE OR
+UNDER STRICT LIABILITY, OR FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY OR CONTRACT,
+INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE
+OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE
+POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
+
+If you discover a Defect in this eBook within 90 days of
+receiving it, you can receive a refund of the money (if any)
+you paid for it by sending an explanatory note within that
+time to the person you received it from. If you received it
+on a physical medium, you must return it with your note, and
+such person may choose to alternatively give you a replacement
+copy. If you received it electronically, such person may
+choose to alternatively give you a second opportunity to
+receive it electronically.
+
+THIS EBOOK IS OTHERWISE PROVIDED TO YOU "AS-IS". NO OTHER
+WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ARE MADE TO YOU AS
+TO THE EBOOK OR ANY MEDIUM IT MAY BE ON, INCLUDING BUT NOT
+LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
+PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
+
+Some states do not allow disclaimers of implied warranties or
+the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so the
+above disclaimers and exclusions may not apply to you, and you
+may have other legal rights.
+
+INDEMNITY
+You will indemnify and hold Michael Hart, the Foundation,
+and its trustees and agents, and any volunteers associated
+with the production and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm
+texts harmless, from all liability, cost and expense, including
+legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of the
+following that you do or cause:  [1] distribution of this eBook,
+[2] alteration, modification, or addition to the eBook,
+or [3] any Defect.
+
+DISTRIBUTION UNDER "PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm"
+You may distribute copies of this eBook electronically, or by
+disk, book or any other medium if you either delete this
+"Small Print!" and all other references to Project Gutenberg,
+or:
+
+[1]  Only give exact copies of it.  Among other things, this
+     requires that you do not remove, alter or modify the
+     eBook or this "small print!" statement.  You may however,
+     if you wish, distribute this eBook in machine readable
+     binary, compressed, mark-up, or proprietary form,
+     including any form resulting from conversion by word
+     processing or hypertext software, but only so long as
+     *EITHER*:
+
+     [*]  The eBook, when displayed, is clearly readable, and
+          does *not* contain characters other than those
+          intended by the author of the work, although tilde
+          (~), asterisk (*) and underline (_) characters may
+          be used to convey punctuation intended by the
+          author, and additional characters may be used to
+          indicate hypertext links; OR
+
+     [*]  The eBook may be readily converted by the reader at
+          no expense into plain ASCII, EBCDIC or equivalent
+          form by the program that displays the eBook (as is
+          the case, for instance, with most word processors);
+          OR
+
+     [*]  You provide, or agree to also provide on request at
+          no additional cost, fee or expense, a copy of the
+          eBook in its original plain ASCII form (or in EBCDIC
+          or other equivalent proprietary form).
+
+[2]  Honor the eBook refund and replacement provisions of this
+     "Small Print!" statement.
+
+[3]  Pay a trademark license fee to the Foundation of 20% of the
+     gross profits you derive calculated using the method you
+     already use to calculate your applicable taxes.  If you
+     don't derive profits, no royalty is due.  Royalties are
+     payable to "Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation"
+     the 60 days following each date you prepare (or were
+     legally required to prepare) your annual (or equivalent
+     periodic) tax return.  Please contact us beforehand to
+     let us know your plans and to work out the details.
+
+WHAT IF YOU *WANT* TO SEND MONEY EVEN IF YOU DON'T HAVE TO?
+Project Gutenberg is dedicated to increasing the number of
+public domain and licensed works that can be freely distributed
+in machine readable form.
+
+The Project gratefully accepts contributions of money, time,
+public domain materials, or royalty free copyright licenses.
+Money should be paid to the:
+"Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+If you are interested in contributing scanning equipment or
+software or other items, please contact Michael Hart at:
+hart@pobox.com
+
+[Portions of this eBook's header and trailer may be reprinted only
+when distributed free of all fees.  Copyright (C) 2001, 2002 by
+Michael S. Hart.  Project Gutenberg is a TradeMark and may not be
+used in any sales of Project Gutenberg eBooks or other materials be
+they hardware or software or any other related product without
+express permission.]
+
+*END THE SMALL PRINT! FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN EBOOKS*Ver.02/11/02*END*
+
diff --git a/7978.zip b/7978.zip
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..580c634
--- /dev/null
+++ b/7978.zip
diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6312041
--- /dev/null
+++ b/LICENSE.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d100942
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,2 @@
+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #7978 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/7978)