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IMaps, platas, charts, ate, may ba filmad at diffarant raduction ratios. Thosa too larga to ba antiraiy includad in ona axposure ara filmad baginning in tha uppar laft hand cornar. laft to right and top to bottom, as many framas as raquirad. Tha following diagrams illustrata tha mathod: Las cartas, planchas, tabiaaux, ate, pauvant Atra filmts A das taux da reduction diffirants. Lorsqua lo documant ast trop grand pour Atre raproduit en un saul clichA, il ast film* A partir da Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche 6 droite. et de haut en bas, en prenant la nombra d'images nAcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants iliustrent la mithode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 Ji ' |6tii Congress, ) Ist Session. J ii'A''fi THE S In compliance with a n pondence with Gener of Oregon. April 12, 1860.- RiR : I have the hon( [called for by the resolut jultimo, by which the S [to the House "the officii Is. Harney, in command jafFairs of that departmei Very respectfully, yoi Hon. William Pennij Speaker of the Hi List I. DiFF] 1. Mr. Marcy to Mr. 2. Same to Mr. Crac 3. General Harney t 4. Same to Captain '. 5. Same to General i L^jamihiL.:^ i6Tii Congress, ) 1st Session, 5 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Ex. Doc. No. 65. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. LETTER FBOH THE SECRETARY OF WAR, OOnfUNIOATINa, In compliance with a resolution of the House of Bepreaentatives, correS' pondence toith General Harney, relating to affairs in the department of Oregon. Apbil 12, I860. — Laid upon the table, And ordered to be printed. War Department, April 11, 1860. Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the papers {called for hy the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 2d jultimo, by which the Secretary of War is requested to communicate Ito the House "the official correspondence of Brigadier General William Is. Harney, in command of the department of Oregon, relating to the jaffairs of that department." Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. FLOYD, Secretary of War. Hon. William Pennington, Speaker of the House of Representatives. List of accompanying papers. I. Difficulties at San Juan Island. 1. Mr. Marcy to Mr. Stevens, July 14, 1855. 2. Same to Mr. Crampton, July 17, 1855. 3. General Harney to Colonel Casey, July 18, 1859. 4. Same to Captain Pickett, July 18, 1859. 5. Same to General Scott, July 19, 1359. AFFAIRS IK OREGON. 11 5; 1-1 r r f * ti: i 6, Mr. Drinlfard to General Ilarney, Septemter 3, 1859. i. General Harney to General Scott, August 1, 1859, enclosinf petition of citizens at San Juan, 8. Same to the Adjutant General, August 7, 1859. a. From Colonel Cnsey, July 31, ^with enclosures fromj Captain Pickett, b. From Captain Pickett, August 3, covering correspond- ence with Captain Hornby. c. Proclamation of Governor Douglas, d. Reply to same, August 6. e. To Captain Pickett, August 6. /, To commander of the Pacific squadron, August 7. g. To General Clarke, August 7. 9, Same to same, August 8, 1859. 10. Mr. Drinkard to General Scott, September 16, 1859. 11. General Harney to same, August 18, 1859. a. To Colonel Casey, August 8. b. From same, August 12, covering correspondence witll Admiral Baynes. c. From same, August 14. d. To same, August 16. e. From Governor Gholson, August 11. /. To Mr. Campbell, August 16. 12. Same to the Adjutant General, August 25, 1859. a. From Governor Douglas, August 13. h. Reply, August 24. c. Governor Douglas's message. d. Debate thereon. e. Article from the " British Colonist." 13. Same to same, August 29, 1859. 14. Same to General Scott, August 30, 1859, enclosing letters froal Colonel Casey, August 22. 15. Same to Colonel Casey, September 2, 1859. 16. Same to General Scott, Sej)tember 14, 1859. a. Affidavit of Mr. Hubbs. h. Affidavit of Ur. Cutler, c. Letter from Mr. Hubbs. 17. Governor Gholson to General Harney, August 21, 1859. 18. General Harney to Mr. Floyd, October 10, 1859. ' a. From Mr. Campbell, August 14. b. From same, August 30. 19. General Scott to the Adjutant General, October 22, 1859. 20. Same to same, October 26, 1859. 21. Same to Mr. Floyd, October 27, 1859. 22. General Harney to General Scott, October 29, 1859, enclosijj letter from Colonel Casey, October 28. 23. General Scott to Mr. Floyd, December 8, 1850. a. Letter to Governor Douglas, October 25. 6. Memorandum by Colonel Lay, October 26. c. From Governor Douglas, October 29. d. To same, November 2. ,g letters froul 1859. |2, 1859. J59, enclosiij AIFAIRS IN OBEGON, e. Projet of settlement. /. From Governor Douglas, NovemWr 3, g. To same, November 5. A. Special orders, November 6. t. From. Oovemor Douglas. j. From same, November 7, with enclosure. Jfc. To Governor Douglas, November 9, with enclosure. I. To Captain Hunt, November 9. m. To Colonel Casey, November 9. n. Colonel Thomas to General Harney, November 9. o. General Scott to General Harney. p. Special orders. 24. General Harney to General Scott, November 17, 1859. 25. Same to the Adjutant General, November 17, 1859. 26. Same to same, January 24, 1860. a. Resolutions of the legislature of Washington. II. MlLITAKY AFFAIRS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF OrKQON. 1. 2. 3. 8. 9. 10. 11, 12. 13, U, 15, 16, The Adjutant General to General Harney, September 14, 1858. o. General orders, September 13. General Harney to General Scott, October 19, 1858. Same to same, October 24, 1859. a. Orders, September 20. b. Orders, October 20. Same to same, October 29, 1858. a. From Colonel Wright, October 28. b. Treaty with the Coiur d'Alones. c. Treaty with the Spokanes. d. Treaty with the Nez Percos. Same to same, November 4, 1858. Same to same, November 5, 1858. a. To Mr. De Smet, October 28. Same to same, November 22, 1858. Same to same, November 24, 1858. Same to same, November 27, 1858. Same to same, November 29, 1858. a. From Captain lugalls, November 22, 1858. b. From Mr. Scholl, December 27, 1857. c. From Mr. Newell, December 31, 1857. (I. From Mr. Palmer, January 3, 1858. e. Distances from Vancouver to Salt Lake. Same to Adjutant General, December 6, 1858. a. To Lieutenant Sill, December 2. b. From same, December 3. c. Charges against Lieutenant Sill. Same to same, December 8, 1853. Same to General Scott, January 20, 1859. The Adjutant General to General Harney, February 2, 1859. General Harney to General Scott, February 7, 1859. Same to same, same date. 'I •* I- V. > i y i: .. ... !■, APFAIBS IN ORCQON. 17. The AdjuUtit General to General Harncj, February 19, 185} 18. Same to same, February 23, 1869. 19. General Harney to Mr. Campbell, February 24, 1859. '20. Bame to tbe Adjutant General, March 1, 1859. ai. Same to General Scott, March 7, 1859. a. From Lieutenant Scott, February 15. 22. The Adjutant General to General Harney, March 18, 1859. 23. General Harney to the Adjutant General, March 19, 1859. o. From Major Alvord, March 18. b. Major Allen to Major Alvord, March 4. 0. General Jesup td Colonel Swords, December 8, 1868. 24. The Adjutant General to General Harney, March 19,1859. 25. Same to same, March 30, 1859. 26. Same to same, April 2, 1859. 27. General Harney to the Adjutant General, April 6, 1859. 28. Same to General Scott, April 6, 1859. a. From " Gary," March 28. 29. Same to same, April IC, 1859. o. From Mr. Euckell, January 31. b. From Captain Ingalls, March 9. c. To Major Wyse, March 10. d. From same, March 10. e. From Captain Ingalls, April 13. /. Mr. Allen to Captain Ingalls, March 4. g. Colonel Swords to same, March 31. h. To Major Wyse, April 13. •'. From same, April 13. j. Major Wyse to General Scott, April 13. 30. Same to same, April 19, 1859. 31. Same to same, April 21, 1859. 32. Same to the Adjutant General, April 23, 1859. 33. Same to General Scott, April 25, 1859. 34. Same to Captain Wallen, April 28, 1859. 35. The Adjutant General to General Harney, April 29, 1859. a. To General Clarke, April 4. 3G. General Harney to the Adjutant General, May 7, 1859. 37. The Adjutant General to General Harney, May 13, 1859. a. Mr. Floyd to General Lawson, April 7. 38. Same to same. May 13, 1859. 39. General Harney to General Scott, May 21, 1859. a. From Mr. Campbell, May 2. 40. Same to same, June 1, 1859. a. From Mr. De Smet, May 25. b. To Mr. Owen, May 28. c. From same. May 28. d. To same, May 28. e. To Mr. DeSraet, June 1. 41. Same to same, June 3, 1859. a. From Mr. De Sraet, May 28. 42. The Adjutant General to General Harney, July 2, 1859. 43. Same to same, July 19, 18.j9. ArrAIBA IN OR£QON.< 41. 45. 46. 47. 48. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59, fiO. Gl. 62. G3. C4. 65. 66. |C7. rs. 70, t. i. General Harney to (3«neral Bcott, July 19, 1859. Ham© to same, July 20, 1859. garaoto tho Adjutant (rener»l, July 20, 1859. Same to General Scott, August 1, 1859. jSamo to earao, August 3, 1859, Same to tlie Adjutant General, August 5, 1859. . a. Charges against Lieutenant De Hart. j. To commander of Fort Vancouver, July 23. 0, Order to Lieutenant De Hart, July 23, d. Lieutenant De Hart to post commander, July 23. e. Reply,' July 24. /. From Lieutenant Dc Hart, July 24. To commander of Fort Vancouver, July 30. Lieutenant De Hart to commander of Fort Vancouver, August 4. Same to General Scott, August 4. To Colonel Morris, August 4. Colonel Morris to Lieutenant De Hart, August 6. Lieutenant De Hart to General Scott, August 5, 1859. General Harney to General Scott, August 5, 1859. The Adjutant General to General Harney, August 10, 1859. Same to same, same date. General Harney to General Scott, August 15, 1859. a. From Captain Kirkham, August 4, h. From same, August 15. c. From Captain Ingalls, August 15. Colonel Merchant to the Adjutant General, August IT, 1859. a. From Tjieutenant Ihrie, August 1. General Harney to the Adjutant General, August 30, 1859. Same to same, September 2, 1859. Same to General Scott, September 5, 1859. Same to same, September 15, 1859. The Adjutant General to General Harney, September 17, 1859. Captain Wallen, to General Harney, August 16, forwarded September 19, 1859. General Harney to the Adjutant General, September 19, 1859. a. To Lieutenant Howard, August 13. h. From Captain Judah, September 12. The Adjutant General to General Harney, October 4, 1859. General Harney to General Scott, October 6, 1859. a. From Captain Wallen, October 1. h. From emigrants to Captain Wallen. Same to same, November 12, 1859. a. From Mr. Det^met, October 5. The Adjutant General to General Harney, November 19, 1859. General Harney to General Scott, November 22, 1859. Same to the Adjutant General, December 9, 1859. a. From General Scott, October 21. I). Post return of Fort Vancouver. Tho Adjutant General to General Hfirney, December 17, 1859. Same to same, same date. 6 AFFAIR.S IN OREaOJf. ft .1: 71. General Harner to General Scott, DodomTier 2R, 1859. a. Colonel Craig to Lieutenant Welcker, May 30. b. Lieutenant Welcker to Colonel Craig, August 2. c. Colonel Craig to Lieutenant Welcker, September 15. d. To Lieutenant Welcker, October 12. «. To same, December 24. /, From same, December 2R. 72. Colonel Abert to Mr. Floyd, December 31, 1859. 73. Tbe Adjutant General to General Harney, January 12, 18G0, 74. General Harney to tbe Adjutant General, .January 17, 1860. o. From Captain Wallen, November 25, 1859. b. Lieutenant Bonnycastle, September 15, 1859. c. Mr. ScboU, December 3, 1859. d. Lieutenant Dixon, January — , 18fi0. «. Lieutenant Houston, October 29, 1859. 75. The Adjutant General to General Harney, January 18, 1860, 76. Same to same, February 7, 1800. 77. Colonel Craig to the Adjutant General, February 25, 1860. a. From Lieutenant Welcker, August 1, 1859. b. Agreement for occupancy of General Harney's propertj, c. From Lieutenant Welcker, October 5, 1859. d. From same, November 1, 1859. m I ■ It • ■'>! I. DiFFrcuLTiE.s AT San Juan Island. 1. Mr. Marcy to Mr. Stevens. Depautmext of State, Washington, July 14, 1855. ^^ ^p sfC 3|C ^^ 3^5 3^ y^ He [the President] has instructed me to say to you tliat the officers of the Territory should abstain from all acts on the disputed grouni«| which are calculated to provoke any conflicts, so far as it can be (loDf| without implying the concession to the authority of Great Britain ( an exclusive right over the premises. The title ought to be settled before either party should exclude tl other by force, or exercise complete and exclusive sovereign right within the fairly disputed limits. Application will be made to tkl British government to interpose with tlie local authorities on tbel northern borders of our territory to abstain from like acts of exclusivel ownership, with the explicit nnderstaiuling that any forbearance oil either side to assert the rights, respectively, shall not bo constrdi into any concession to the adverse party. By a conciliatory and moderate course on both sides, it is sincereljl hoped that ail difficulties will be avoided until an adjustment of tlitj boundary line can be made in a manner mutually satisfactory. Tin! AFFAIR8 IN OREGON, government of the United States will do what it can to have the lino iPHtttbliMlicd at an early neriod. I am, sir, your obedient servant, W. L. MARCY. His exctllencj I. I. Strvens, Governor of IVaahington Territory, Ohjmpia, 2. Mr» Mara/ to Mr. Crampton. Department op State, Washington, July 17, 1855. Sm: I am under some apprehension that collision may take place between our citizens and British subjects in regard to the occupation of the (liaputed points along the line between Washington Territory ind the British possessions on the north of it. In the hope of avoiding such a difficulty, I have, by the direction of the President, addressed a letter to the governor of that Territory pn the subject, and herewith furnish you with an extract from it. I nreaurae that the government of her Britannic Majesty will be willing p recommend to her subjects along the boundary in question a similar course until the line can be established. In that way I sincerely hope [ill collision may be avoided. I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, sir, the assur- jince of my high consideration. W. L, MARCY. John F. Crampton, Esq., dx., dc. Jk 3. General Harney to Colonel Casey. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T,, July 18, 1859. Sir: By Special Orders No. 72, herewith enclosed, you will percidv" Ihe general commanding has withdrawn the garrisons from Belli ag- ]iamand Townsend, and has placed the steamer "Massachusetts" bder your orders for the better protection antl supervision of the wa- ers of Pugefs Sound. To carry out these instructions with more effect, the general com- aanding desires me to communicate to you the follovving directions : The steamer '' Massachusetts " will proceed without delay to Belling- kam, to he used in establishing company " D," 9tU infantry, on San I nan island; after which she will convey company "I" of the 4th [ifantry to Steilacoom, when the company you assign for service on Ihe steamer will be embarked under your supervision. Article 37, general regulations : Troops on board of transports will, as far as practicable, govern in the disposition of the company on board. As |o surgeon is available for the ship, medical attendance will be ob- 8 AFFAIIlfl IK OREOON. I ■ I '' 1 I- t 'I ) '.11 taincd nt Fort Steilacoorn or Sftn Juan island, when requirod; incdiral BupplioH, liowc'ver, with directions for uho, will ho furnished by yont medicul ofliocr for such probiiblo cases of danger as will retjuiro iinine- diato attention. After the ship has received the necessary stores and Huj)plieR, Hhe will bo instructod to cruise in the sound amonj; the islands frequented hy the northern Indians, who will ho warned not to conio into any of the waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, which embraces all the islands and currents to the east of the Straits of Ilaro. Any opposition by these Indians will be speedily checked, and the requirements of tliese instructions will bo maintained by force, it ne^ ccssary. The ordinary rendezvous of the stoanur Massachusetts, for wood and water, will be Han Juan island; and should tlie commander of that island desire the assistance of any force from the ship for pur- poses connected with the defence of the island, the officer in commanii of the ship will he instructed to iurnish the force and co-operate with the troops in all measures requiring its safety and protection. At the end of every two months the ship will visit Fort Steilacoora to obtain supplies, and for the muster and insjjection required by the regula. tions. The command on the steamer Massachusetts will be borne on the post return of Fort Steilacoom, as a component part of its garrison. In the ordinary cruising of the sound, the ship will be propelled by I sail only, but at least four days' fuel lor steam will be kept constantly on board, to be used whenever necessity requires celerity of motion. The ship will visit the light- houses on the sound in her cruises, and furnish them any protection that may be needed. As the ship ij mounted with eight thirty-two pounders, and the proper ammunition i has been provided, the crew will be instructed, under the direction of the master of the vessel in their u.se, to obtain the most efficient action from all parties incases requiring it. Whenever circumstances occur requiring a deviation from the tenor of these instructions, you are au- 1 thorized to use your own discretion and judgment in the matter, report- ing the occurrence to this office. The general commanding is pleased I to communicate his confidence in the zeal, energy, and intelligence you exercise in the discharge of your duties to the service, and he rests assured the details transmitted in this communication will be rendered! with satisfaction and advantage to such worthy (qualities. I am, colonel^ very res])ectf'ully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Captain 2(1 Dragoons, Acting Afis't AdJ't General Lieut. Colonel S. Casey, [ith Infantry, commanding Fort Steilacoom, Puget'a Sound. i^ AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 9 4. General IJarney to Captain Pickett. TTkadquartr w Dkpautmknt of Obkoon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 18, 1859. Captain: Ky SjJociHl OrderH No. 72, a copy of wliich Ih cnclofled, you ire (lirecteil to establish your company at Hellovno or Sun Juan island, in Hiiine siiitiiMo position near the harbor at tho Hontheastern extremity. Il'lie gciii'ral commanding instructs me to say tlio olyect to bo attained |ii placing,' you thus is two-tbhl, viz: First. To protect tlio inhabi- liiiitH . 1. Her Majesty's Ship " Tribune," Griffin Bay, Island of San Juan, August 3, ]85S,| Sir: Having received instructions from his excellency Govenj Douglas to communicate v.itl\ you in reference to the landing ufj Ui-ited States troops under your comman-d on the island ofSanJu I have the honor to propose a meeting should take place between jJ self and any other officers of ihe United States military forces ( one part, and captains of her Britannic Majesty's ships on theolJ (on board her Majesty's ship " Tribune,") at any hour thatraarj convenient to you, that wo may, if possible, conclude such arrajf ments as will tend to preserve harmony between the subjects ( two States in this island. 1 have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, GEOl^'FKEY PHIPPS HORNBY, Coploi\ Captain Pickett, Commanding Detachment United Slates Troops, Island Sand Sir : In rep kliat I shall do pany with the I have the h Captain Pick Cormnandi ^iR : In accoi J have the bono ppositions raa Having drawi hirry, 8ocretar »'!,'}' 14, 1855, { 'liuers of the Ui I that was the t( K" two States h; J a more recent \ T» ♦Mo ,.„.. __ ■'" ""lo yuu re AFFAIRS IN ORE .I'-V 19 2. Military Post, San Juan, W. T., August 3, 1859. Sir: Your cornraunication of this instant, favored by Lieutenant I runlop, has been received. I have the honor to say, in reply, that I Lhall most cheerfully meet yourself, and whatever officers of her jliijesty's service that you may select, in my camp at whatever hour voti may choose to designate. Be assured that my wish corresponds with yours to preserve harmony between our respective governments. I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE E. PICKETT, Cajytain dth United States Infantry, Commanding. Captain Piiipps Hohnby, Commanding her Britannic Majesty's Ship ''Tribune," Harbor of San Juan, IV. T. 8 6. 3. Her Majesty's Ship " Tribune," Griffin Bay, Island of San Juan, August 3, 1859. ISiR : In reply to your letter of this morning, I have io inform you ^hat I shall do myself the honor of calling on you at 2 p. m., in com- pany with the captains of her Britannic Majesty's ships. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, G. PHIPPS HORNBY, Captain. Captain Pickett, Vommanding Detachment U. S. Troops, Island of San Juan. 86. 4. Her Majesty's Ship " Tbibune," San Juan Island, August 3, 1859. Sir; In accordance with your request for a written communication, j have the honor to transmit the substance of the declarations and |ropoaitions made by me to you to-day. liavin;]; drawn your attention to the extract of a despatch from Mr. liirry, Secretary of State, to his excellency Governor Stevens, dated [illy 14, 1855, prescribing the conduct that should be pursued by the [iicers of the United States in respect of the disputed grounds, I asked that was the tenor of your present instructions, or if the relations of be two States had been placed on other than a friendly footing by any 'a more recent date. To this you replied by referring to the date of the despatch. p 1 ■t ! i ! \ li^' I r 20 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. I then asked you, in the name of Governor Doaglas, the terms oji which yoii had occupied the ishvnd of San Juan ; to which you replieiil that you did fio hy order of the ** }2;enernl commanding?," to protcctiil as a part of the United States territory, and that you believed heacleill under orders from the government at Washington. I then presented to you the governor's j)rote8t against any m occupation or claim. 1 represented to you that the i'ii",t of occupyiij a disputed island by a military forciQ necessitated a similar action oil our part ; that again involved the imminent risk of a collision betwwJ the forces, there being a magistrate of each nation now acting ODtli(| island, either of whom might call on those of their country for aid To prevent the chance of such collision, I suggested that a joint inilJ tary occupation might take place, and continue until replies couU J received from our respective governments; and, during such times, tlij the commanding officers of the forces should control and adjudicatf between their respective countrymen, the magistrates being witlidrairil on both sides, or the action of their courts suspended tor the titi bt ig, their employment not being necessary under a joint militanl occiipation. I suggested this course as apparently the only one left (short' entire evacuation by the troops under your command) likely to duce the object so much to be desired, viz : the prevention of a collisiiij between the forces or authorities of the two countries, landed or int harbor of San Juan — an event which must lead to still more disastroj results, by permanently estranging the friendly relations subsist!: between Great Britain and the United States of America. You replied that you had not authority to conclude such terras, suggested the reference of them to General Harney and GoverJ Douglas, without interference in any way with our liberty of actioj I pointed out that my proposition was strictly in accordance wiij the principles laid down in Mr. Marcy's despatch, aad that yourv: the other hand, offered no security against the occurrence of soi] immediate evil. That as officers of the United States government had committeJij act of aggression by landing an armed force on this island j the settlement of our respective claims to its sovereignty, witliJ warning to us, and without giving you a discretionary power! making any necessary arrangements, that the United States anJf officers alone must be responsible for any consequences that niijj result, either immediate or future. I agreed to your request to furnish you with the substance ofii eonversation in writing, and concluded by informing you that hariij BOW made what seemed to me a most equitable and simple proposiiitl I reserved to myself, in the event of your non-acceptance of it, (^ liberty of action either for the protection of British subjects i property, or of our claims to the sovereignty of the island, until are settled by the Northwest Boundary Coramissioo now eiistin'.! by the respective governments. I believe I have now given you the substance of our conversalii and have only to add my regr«t thftt you were not able to agree t^l AFFAIRS IN OREGON. SI iiurfe which it appears to ino would totally avoid the risk of a col- riie responsibility of any such catastrophe does not, I feel, rest on le or on lior Majesty's representative at Vancouver's island. I liave the honor to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, GEOFFREY PHIPPS HORNBY, Captain and Senior Officer. Cijptftin Georor Pickett, Commanding Ddachment of United States 9th Regiment. Military Post, Island of San Juan, W. 2\, August 3, 11 p. m. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your comnm- jiciitian of this date, in reference to the conversation which was held *o-day between ourselves and Captains Prevost and Richards, Your ^collection of said conversation seems to be very accurate. There is Le point, however, which I dwelt upon particularly, and which I must endeavor, as the officer representing my government, to impress ipon yon, viz : That, as a matter of course, I, being here under Crders from my government, cannot allow any joint occupation until to ordered by my commanding general, and that any attempt to make Inch occupation as you have proposed, before I can communicate with ileneral Harney, will be bringing on a collision which can be avoided jiv awaiting this issue. I do not for one moment imagine that there (pill any difficulty occur on this island which will render a military Qtert'erence ne((>8sary ; and I therefore deem it proper to state that I lliink no discredit can reflect upon us, or our respective flags, by lemaining in our present positions until we have an opportunity of )eariDg from those higher in authority. I hoi)e, most sincerely, sir, you will reflect on this, and hope you m coincide with me in my conclusion. Should you see fit to act Itlierwise, you will then be the person who will bring on a most |isastrous difficulty, and not the United States officials. I have thus hurriedly answered your communication, in order t© Jvoid any delay and its consequences. I remain, with much respect, your obedient servant, GEORGE E. PICKETT, Captain dth Infantry, Commanding PoH, Capt, G. Pnipp3 Hornby, Vcmmanding her Britannic Majesty's ship '* Tribune,'* Harbor of San i/uan, Washington Territory, 22 AFPATRS IN OREGON. Wt. Mi h i I !1 By James Douglas. '*' D., govwa '^r and coranilaii(l, and that only for the brief [leriod during which the In ;:(ivornuients may be peacefully emi)loyed in settling the question Iwh.ich of them the island belongs. It is a possible, but not a probable, case that the British autliorities, iviiii; a i^reatly superior force at their immediate command, may have leiiipted to seize the island and to exercise exclusive jurisdiction over jaiul tl'iiit our countrymen in those regions may have taken up arms |as>ert and niiiintain their rights. In that event the President feels lu^t confidence, from the whole tenor of your ])aHt life, that you will .sufl'iT the nati(»nal honor to be tarnished. If we irust be forced a war l)y the violence of the British authorities, which is not an- |'at('(l, wo shall abide the issue as best we may without apprehension ItO till' I'L'SUlt. I !un, sir, very respectfullv, vonr obedient servant, W. K. DllINKAllD, AdiiKj Sevretari/ of War. jientonant General Winfield Scott, Commandtr-in-Chief of the Unilal Slates Anmj, Waslnnj mentous consequences that might arise, not to land any troops on til island, as this would be prevented by the British steamship-of-wt "Tribune," who, with her fires constantly kept up, was lying wiii her broadside on the landing. Althou;ih fully appreciating the terrible consequences of a hosti! collision with our quasi enemy, which would probably be no lesstU involving two great nations in war, I did not under the circuinstancef however, consider myself at liberty to disregard my orders, and cordingly resolved to land under the guns of the frigate. The con mencing hostilities should be on their side. We lelt Port Townseiil about twelve o'clock the night of the 'Jth, expecting to reach San Jm early on the morning of the 10th. The fog, however, came up dense that we did not make the island of San Juan until about sev o'clock the morning of the 10th. After hugging the shor'i lor a few miles, I was informed by thecal tain that we were but a short distance from Captain Pickett's caj and that it was difficult to get along on account of the fog, and tk moreover, the tide was so low that he would not have been able have gotten up to the wharf at the landing for several hours. Finding ourselves a smooth place near the land, with the coast depressed at the point as to make the ascent from the shore easy, landed the troops and howitzers, with orders to the senior officer move them to Captain Pickett's camp. I proceeded on the steaui around to the wharf, taking with me my adjutant and a small gua: for the howitzer ammunition and other public property. I found the Tribune lying as has been described. They did noti:] terfere with tho landing of our freight. Whether they wouir interfered with the landing of tlie troops I cannot say. It is Capti Pickett's opinion that they would. Before I had landed from the steamer, I received a message Ca])tain Pi( kett, by one of his officers, requesting my presence atom in camp. The captain pointed out to me a British war steamer, ajct: tained afterwards to be the "Satellite," which he was under tkM!J pression was about taking a position to shell the camp. The is situated on a narrow neck of land opposite to the harbor, and distai about two-thirds of a mile. The " Tribune," lying in the harbnr on board several hundred men, composed of marines, royal artill and sappers and miners. He expected the land attack from the hrl)i side, and was nrenarftd to firfi iinnn tliftm with his hnwitz-eri aniltlil AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 81 isiiike tlicni, deliver hia fire with his rnnsketry, and retreat to the LvooiIp. Not having time to form any well-considered plan of my own, hvitli regard to the state of affairs, 1 did not countermand the direc- Itioiis that Captain Pickett had given. Seeing the danger of a collision at any moment, which would inevi- ItiiWv lead to war between two mighty nations connected by so many Icoinnion bonds, and whichever way it might terminate would be leniinently disastrous to the cause of civilization and the interests of lliuniaiiity, I resolved to make an attempt to prevent so great a calamity. I sent an officer aboard the " Tribune" with a request Itl'iit Cni)tiiin Hornby, the commander, would call on me at my camp Ifui' tlie purpose of a conference. The message returned to me hy Captain Hornby was, that he was liniich en.aged at that time, and would come if he could conveniently, l|,ut would be happy to see me on board his vessel. However, in a few huura the captfiin came, accompanied by Ca))tain Provost, the British, land Mr. Campbell, the United States commissioner. I informed Captain Hornby that I had landed that morning with a Iforce of United States troops, and explained to him the reason why |I had not lauded at the wharf, under the guns of the frigate. I [also said t^^ him that I regretted that Captain Pickett had been so much liarassed and tlireatened in the position he had occupied. 1 inquired of Captain Hornby who the officer liighest in command Iwaa, and where he was to be found. He said it was Admiral Baynes, land that he was then on board the flag-ship " Ganges," in Esquimault Ihiirhor. I intimated a wish to have a conference with the admiral, and that 1 would go down to Esquimault the next day for the purpose of the interview. Both the captain and the British commissioner seemed j])lta?ed. The next day, accompanied by Captain Pickett (both of us [in lull uniform) and Mr. Campbell, I went down to Esquimault on the Bteamer Shubrick. We anchored near the " Ganges," and I sent to the admiral, by an officer, the note marked "A." 1 received in reply the note marked ''B." The note marked '* C" was taken on board by ICaptiiin Pickett and handed to the admiral in person. The captain Iwiis CdurteouHly received by the admiral. Governor Douglas was pre- leeiit in the cabin. After reading tlie note the admiral handed it to the jgnvciiior. Tbe governor inquired if 1 knew he was on board the Khip. The captain replied that he liad no reason to suppose I did, but Ithat I hail not sought an interview with him, hut with the admiral. [The captain informed the admiral that the steamer v/a? then firing up, [hut, that 1 would be happy to wait should lie then decide to give me the Iconfironco. It was declined, but the ailmiral reiterated his desire that [ho would be haiii)y to see me on board the ship. I was of the opinion hat 1 had carried ttisjuette far enough in going 25 miles to see a gen- kinan who was disinclined to come 100 yards to see me. The proposition which 1 intended to have made the adn)iral was this : Itocalm the lising excitement on both sides among tbe people, and to [give time lor the intentions of the home government to be made known [in re;.^!u J to the matter. 1 intended to propose that in case he, the ad- jniiiiil, would pass his word on honor that no threats should be made or [moltstution given by the force under his command for the purpose of t (»• Vi 1 r, 'I ' 'i 1 ,1 4 < a ■4 _„ lit iik Si 1:^'$ 32 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ' ! I •'11 I ! ■ii ■■■[ preventing Captain I'ickett from carrying out the orders and iustriif.j tions vvitlj which he is intrusted, I wouhl recommend to tlie comraandin. general the withdrawal of the reiuforceraeut which had landed ont island under my command, and that affairs should so remain until t Bjvereign authorities should announce their intentions. I have soli had no further intercourse with any of the officers of the fleet. \;\A tenant Kellogg, :'>d artillery, being at Fort Steilacoom on the receptioj of your order, I directed him to accompany me in charge of theartJ lery. I trust that, under the circumstances, the general coramj will approve my course in the matter. The " Massachusetts" arrived to-day with Major Haller's commaJ on hoard. Inasmuch as most of the subsistence stores here are spoiyl having been damaged on board the "Massachusetts" before shelandJ them at Bellingham Bay, and the articles pf the quartermaster's departl ment being required, I shall direct the "Massachusetts" to proceed J soon as the guns can be landed, to Fort Townsend, and take fromther!! all the public property, leaving a sergeant and two or three privaj to take care of the buildings and garden. I enclose a list of the ships and men which the British haveinttj vicinity. I would advise that the general send an officer expresstl San Francisco, requesting the naval captain in command to send tJ any ships-ot-war lie may have on the coast. It is not pleasant tol)«i the mercy of any one who is liable at any moment to become youroptJ enemy. The British have a sufficient naval force here to efFectuallJ blockade this island when they choose. I do not know what tl] intentions of the British naval authorities with respect to this islanj are. I shall resist any attack they may make upon my position, request that five iull companies of regular troops, with an officer| engineers and a detachment of sappers, be sent here as soon as possillij Let Lieutenant Kellogg's be one of the companies. I have enck copies of communications from Major Haller with regard to his open tions with the Indians. I think the major exercised a commeadali^ enterprise in his operations, and that there will be no further difi culty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Lieutenant Colonel dth h/antrij Captain Alfred Pleasonton, Acting AnsiUant Adjutant General, Fort Vancouver, W, T, gavnes, comi [Enclosures.] 1. Colonel Casey to Admiral Baynes, August 11. 2. Admiral Baynes to Colonel Casey, August 11. 3. Colonel Casey to Admiral Baynes, August 11. 4. Statement of British forces at San Juan. !^ ' AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 33 lib. 1 United States Steamer Shubhick, EsquimauU Harbor, W. 2\, August 11, 1859. Lieutenant Colonel Casey, United States array, commanding the lorcts on San Juan island, presents his compliments to Admiral jdvnes, commanding her Britannic Majesty's naval forces on the t*acific coast, and would he ha[)py to meet the admiral in conference 111 board tlie United States steamer Shubrick, in the harbor, at his srliest couvenience. lib. 2 "Ganges," EsquimauU, W. T., August 11, 1859. iRear-Adminal Baynes presents his compliments to Lieutenant plonel Casey, and regrets that circumstances prevent him doing him- If the honor of meeting Lieutenant Colonel Casey on board the [ubrick. But Rear-Admiral Baynes will have great pleasure in ceiving Lieutenant Colonel Casey, or any one who may wish to ac- apany him on board the Ganges. iLieutenant Colonel Casey, United States Army. lib. 3 United States Steamer Shubrick, EsquimauU Harbor, W. T. Lieutenant Colonel Casey regrets that circumstances prevent Rear- [miral Baynes from accepting his invitation to meet him on board I Shubrick according to his request. H. Ex. Doc. 65 3 34 AFFAIRS IN ORKGON. 116. 4 lli 1 i-^\ :^i' ITer Britannic MajcsU/s Fieri at Vancouver's Island and in itavlcinihi Itcar-Admiral Baynes commanding. Nuiiiu of VL'Shl'l. No. of gUMH. Men. 1 ~" 1 Nnmi! of cftptiiins. 1 Flnf^-ship Tribune .. Ga nffes 84 lU 21 21 10 IGV 840 :J25 :i2r) :{25 125 1,940 Sliivcl, GeoflrcyPliippsHorDk Do Courcey. James I'revost Pylades Satellite PluniDer Richards. i Tlie Tribune, now at anchor in tlie liarbor of San Juan lias, in addi- tion to her own crew, a detaclinient of sappers and miners and niarinei brought down from Frazer's river on the ^Oth July, by the steatnej Plumper, numbering 200; total, 2,140. The relative calibre of the Ganges guns unknown; she isoDecl the old-fa8hione li'ive tiicm Hcnt arcmiid on board the United Htates Ntearaor '* Active, " which Captain AUlen haH kindly placed at my disposal for (iirrviiif,' tl>'^ dcHpatch. The service of the engineer officer and the (lotiu'hiiu'nt of Happors would most probably he required hut a short time. We are encamped in rather an exposed situation with regard to the wind, being at the entrance to the Straits of Fuca. The weather, at times, is already quite inclement. To maintain the object of our oociMiiition I do not, however, from my present information, think it iidvisftble to change my i)o.sition. I have enclosed requisition for ' Silik'V ' tents, witli stoves and (luartermaster's stores, which I would like ti) he forwarded by the " Active" on her return. I have also enclosed a requisition for subsistence stores, which should be sent to I'ort Steilacnom as soon as they can bo supplied from San Francisco. In view of the possible contingencies of the service, it was ray intcn- Ition to draw Irom Steilacoom, as a depot, supplies as they would ho ntdloil, The "Massachusetts" landed her guns and ammunition vestenlay. I have directed that she leave to-day for Port Townsend ami bring all the nupplies from the port to this point, leaving there a l,sei'"eaiit and two men to take care of the public buildings and garden. jl shall place the iiii-pounders in position as soon as possible. With jour (iresent applij'uces I find them rather dillicult to manage. Very resnectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Lt. Col. '3th Infantry, Commanding if. S. troops on Sun Juan Island. Capt. Alfred Pleasonton, A. A. Adj't Cen'l, Ikadquarlers Dep t of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, JV. 2\ \'l # i <: 11 d. Headquakters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, IV. T., August IG, 1859. Colonel : The general commanding has received your reports of the '2th and 14th instants, and accompanying papers, and instructs me I reply as follows : The supplies and stores required for the command at San Juaa iland will 1)0 forwarded as soon as practicable ; the camp and garrison kpiiiiajjo will he shipped on the "Active." The iiiurse pursued by you in ordering the four companies from jteiliuodiii to San Juan island is approved. A detachment of engineers will be sent you by the mail steamer. the meantime have phitforms made for your heavy guns, and cover Diir camp as nuich as possible by intronchment, placing your heavy JUS in buttery on the most exposed approaches ; the howitzers to be JBed to the best advantage with the troops, or in the camp, according I circumstHnces. Select your position with the greatest care to avoid the fire from the ritisli ships. In such a position your command should he able to - — f--' «6 AFFAinS IN OREOON. ti ,. ( |i^. defend itHolf against any force the UritiHli may land. Tlie general ha^ requested a naval force troni the senior ofHcer on thi« coaHt, n\u\ han notified (Joneral (Jlarko, aH well as the autlutriticH at WaBhington, of the exiHting state uf aftaira on the Kound. TroopH and supplieH will be sent to you an JaHt aH they can he collected. The general regrets, under all thoeircuniHtanceB, your visit to KHquj. mault harbor to hco the Uritish adniinil, but is satisHed of your gen. vroUH intention towardH thera. He instructs you for the future to refer all oflicial corumuniciitiou desired by the Jiritish authorities to these head([uarters, informing them at the same time that such are your orders. It is almost nt'eillcss to inform you that the subjects of Great Britain on San duan island will bo treated with the same cousidera- tion anve caused so serious a misunderstanding in the minds of the American ople on San Juan island ; nor has the course which events have ken since the occupation of the island by the troops of my command en of such cliaracter as to reassure these people, could the contents J your despatcii be announced to them. |From what has taken ])lace, I do not feel myself qualified to with- iw the present command from San Juan island, until the pleasure ! the President of the United States has been made kno.vn on the pbiect ; I can, however, frankly assure your excellency tliat the same llptives which have induced me to listen to the appeals of my own 1 1 4 "1 I'M w^Km w^^^^wi HB m M ■ h ^i i l! u 42 AFFAIRS iN OREGON. countrymen will be exerted in causing the rights of her Majestv fiubjects on San Juan to be held inviolate. 1 have the honor to be, very respectt'ully, your obedient servant W. S. HARNEY, ' Brigadier General United States Army Comma His excellency James Douglas, C B., Governor of Vancouver's Island and its dependencies, Vice- Admiral of the same, (t 12 c. ,i ( r n, ■fi, I; Government House, Victoria, August 3, 1859, To the Legislative Council and House of Assembly of the Colony of Vancouver's Island: Gentlemen : I have to comraunicate for your information theintelt gence of the landing of a detachment of United States troops on tbl island of San Juan, avowedly (see enclosed Nos. 1 and 2) fortliepj pose of forming a military post, and of asserting the sovereignty of tlj United States to that island. Having received no information {m any quarter that the United States ever contemplated taking militaj possession of any part of the disputed territory, while the bi line remained unsettled, I am forced to believe that the late unwjl rantable and discourteous act, so contrary to the usages of civiM nations, has originated in error, and been undertaken without tiJ authority of that government. That impression is corroborated kf letter (a copy of which is here enclosed) from the Hon. VV. L. Marcti Secretary of the United States, dated Washington, July 12, ]8oo,l her Majesty's minister at Washington, which contains instructio! from the President of the United States to the governor of Wasliind Territory, and displays, in the clearest manner, the conciliatory ail moderate views entertained by his government on the subject of til disputed territory. Though the right of Great Britain to all the islands situated to lij westward of '' Vancouver " or " Rosario " straits is, to oiirmiM clearly established by the first article of the treaty of 1846, andthoii.{ those islands have, since the foundation of this colony, been consiilenj as a dependency of Vancouver's island, it is well known to you, ge» tlemen, that out of respect to the construction that has been put upd that treaty by the government of the United States we have abstaiw from exercising exclusive sovereignty over them. Convinced thata assumption, on either side, of exclusive right to the disputed territ«ij would simply be a fruitless and mischievous waste of energy, neitk detracting from nor adding force to the claims of either nation, fi< and considerate policy enjoins upon us the part of leaving so importi a national question for settlement by the proper authorities, avoiding complications foreign to the views and wishes of and pti| bably embarrassing to both governments. Immediately on bfil informed of the landing of the United States troops at San Juan, AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 43 I iestv's ship "Tribune." under the command of Captain Hornby, H (lespatclied to that quarter, and soon after a detachment of royal „jpcer8 and royal marine light infantry were ordered from New festiniiister by her Majesty's ship "Plumper," Captain Richards, ill those troops will be landed at San Juan to protect the lives and loi)ertv of British subjects. You will observe, gentlemen, from en- hsiireNo. 1, that the captain in command of the United States de- chiiK'nt of troops, in a public notice, dated July 27, assumes the leicise of exclusive sovereign rights in the island of San Juan, while 1 President of the United States altogether disclaims such preten- is and seeks at most to continue the joint right of sovereifrnty and li'jiiin in common with Great Brittvin. We may presume from that tcumstance tliat the notice in question was framed in ignorance of le intentions of the United States government, and that the preten- bns set forth will not be maintained. Ente' 'aining such opinions, have not failed to impress on her Majesty's naval officers now sta- Diied at San Juan the desire of her Majesty's government to avoid ly course which may unnecessarily involve the suspension of the hjcahle relations subsisting between Great Britain and the United [ites. At the same time, those officers have been instructed and are ppared to assert the rights and to maintain the honor and dignity four sovereign and her dominions. have the honor to be. gentlemen, your most obedient servant, JAMES DOUGLAS lll^i M ) U i ' 11 1 ''tl 12 d. [From the "British Colonist," Victoria, August 17, 18.^9.] reply to governor s message about san juan. Victoria, Victoria's Island, House of Assembl 1/ , Friday, August 12, 1859. Ml. Speaker, learning that neither Mr. Skinner nor Mr. Pemberton lended to insist on their motion as regards San Juan, had prepared leply to the message. He considered that a great mistake had been Jde by the government in sending out men to settle the boundary. mraon sense and dollars should have been sent. The dollar tho ttoricans worship. If dollars had been used, a different interpreta- of the treaty might have been made. Why not have made tho |)ceeding a mere mercantile affair and paid the commissioner ? Then j island would have been ours, and the Americans would have clearly |n the justice of our claim. But a general on his own authority invaded our territory. His grounds for doing so were based on Jsehood and carried out clandestinely. What more could be expected la man who has spent a lifetime in warring with Indians? But lat is to be done ? His excellency sends troo])s and ships. Why J this expense and show, if for parade? Why were not the troops kded ? Instead of fighting, lier Majesty 's captains take to diplomacy In C (I 44 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ' i It It shames mo to think that the Satellite was running around aitei Commissioner Campbell. I am ashamed to think that post cantaJ were holding a pow-wow with a subaltern of the American arul They should have landed their troops and avoided all degrading ne;..! tiations. But more troops have landed, in spite of post captains aiil admirals. (Here he read some extracts from the Blue Book of Briti Columbia enjoining the necessity of accustoming the colonists todefe] themselves.) Yes, a militia must be raised. We must defend oil selves, for the position we occupy to-day would make the ironmoiii| ment of Wellington weep, and the stony statue of Nelson bend I brow. The reply to the message was then read. Mr. Yates agreed witJ part of the address, but could not understand why the honorai speaker had said in it that the time to land troops has gone by. )iJ motion is to learn why they were not landed. The time tolaudthJ was when there was no danger of blood being shed. Now, perharJ the case is different. Mr. Pemberton. 1 nm not sure that the time to land troops has m by. If it has not, I recommend his excellency to land them. Ttj portion of the address in relation to militia I would le»"ve out. Ifii asked the home government for arms for the militia they would 1, likely to send us some old muskets from the Tower one hundred ai| fifty years old. No allusion has been made to British subjects occ pying the island. I think it necessary. Mr. Speaker. I think there was a council on board the flag-sli His excellency was present. Negotiations was the object, perhaps,) American officers had arrived on the Shubrick. I would not holdail negotiations with so dishonorable a man as Campbell. I havew said anything in the address about San Juan as the key to BritiiJ Columbia. 1 leave that to his excellency. Mr. Yates preferred negotiation to war. I believe the powers be have been too slow, and put the governor in a false position. motion is to learn who is to blame. Mr. Pemberton believed a few soldiers, if supported by a man-Oi-wi'| could land without danger of collision. Mr. McKay was favorable to landing troops at all hazards. Mr. Speaker had no doubt the naval officers had said : Now, l| Pickett, will you allow us to land ? Mr. Pemberton thought the colony would be benefited by thediii culty. A large naval station would be built here, and evervthiii would be removed from Valparaiso. Mr. Speaker thought tlie honorable member very patriotic in tatii| such an interested view of the question. He cared nothing fort paltry local advrantages. It is a national question, and in that alone he looked at it. Mr. Pemberton proposed the occupation of Lopez island by Britii troops. After some amendments to the address, the following totheg«i| ernor's message was then adopted : AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 45 ADDRESS. he house acknowledges the receipt of your excellency's communi- lion of the 3d instant, relating to the clandestine invasion of San island by United States troops and the steps to be adopted in jtion thereto. .... Since that communication it is well known that additional forces tre been landed. f he house would therefore inquire why the British forces were not LUhI to assert our just right to the island in question, and to up- Id the honor of our country and our Queen. Phe house would most urgently impress upon your excellency to Dree upon her Majesty's government the necessity of demanding jn the (Tovernment of the United States not only immediate with- U'iil of those troops, but also strenuously and at all risks to main- her light to the island in question, and also to all other islands [he same archipelago now so clandestinely, dishonorably, and dis- lestly invaded. It is not for our country to be wantonly and insolently insulted, but \m must be demanded. [be weakness of the colony is its greatest danger, and, at the same an inducement for the repetition of similar offences by similar tons. Let it, therefore, be urged upon her Majesty's government ; sending out colonists rapidly from Great Britain is the surest not only of maintaining peace, but of preserving intact her lestys possessions. Coupled with this, the house would propose ; free and liberal grants of land be given to such emigrants after IID sr thereon for a certain time. 12 e. [From the "British Colonist," Victoria, August 17, 1859 ] WHY WERE NOT TROOPS LANDED AT SAN JUAN? |q our first page will be found the assembly debate on the gover- I message in relation to landing soldiers on San Juan. From the ire strictures passed on our naval officers by the speaker, who is as the exponent of the government, it is evident that a serious tence of opinion as to our policy exists between the naval and I authorities. It is difficult to imagine how so high an official , use such language except from information derived from official Ices; and it is still more difficult to believe, as suggested by the pan during debate, that the naval authorities had refused to [when they had no discretionary instructions. If they had full actions to land, the unenviable position of the government, since bublication of the message, is justly chargeable to them. If, on pther hand, they were governed by discretionary instructions, the ges against the commander's of her Majesty's ships for equivocal m ^ If m «■« m^'*M mm,^^^ l^\ ; I ■■'11 > « 'if . -y-- - ami .■ia.-.>Ali 46 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. >'vii 4- I 1 '^:i ' I -'S, M conduct is justly reprehensible. No future explanation, however fl explain away the palpable inference which will be drawn from | lan *15 AFFAIR8 IN OUEOON. 51 li- ?'i :krtt, u8t 22, 185"). rthc "Active,"! of August, 1 n tew miles D which I tliini. ich I wished K 1 camp where I lyself against i| ime, I would 1 n is Holved. ive discovered ( 'ora the Hhelliii hich I liave in iselves ; I tho landing, qJ ' oversight of tj at these positioi nd attack, befoij les off. ip a position nd ly heavy gunsi which mighttj] fi; may be al)lei| ) i'rom tliem;l re with jegardj peculiar circuj !8 which a ca Ion secret t'roiii)l| lave considemi I be forced upoii^ 1 the whole mi )ut right. fnanding Cawpl kncouver, W.I\ Uh. IIkadquartkhs Camp Pickktt, San Juan Inland, W. T., Awjufit 22, 18')!). ('ai'TAIN : I li'ivo tho honor to report that I received hy the " North- Ifnir" tho gcneral'B insfiiictionH of tho 17th and I'Jth instant. The " MaHsachusettM " arrived on the night of tho 21st, and she \h l(nv miloading the government property from Fort Townsond. I will lime the froi^jht of the " Northerner" to be placod on her, as directed. 1 liiul ordered Major Haller on shore with his company before re- living tlie general's instructions so to do. It was not my intention ( iilHct.' another company on at present. When I do, I shall bo happy I, liter the position to Captain Pickett, as I am as fully impressed as Be n'neral with the gallant behavior displayed by him during the [teditHculties on the island. have placed Lieutenant Kellogg, with his company, on duty in Urge of all the artillery. That leaves, including Major Haller's, iglit companies, which I have formed into an infantry battalion, and Vll endeavor to have them efficiently exercised in drill. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Lieutenant Colonel \Hh Infantry, Commanding Camp. [Captain Alfred Pleasontom, Acting Asst. Adjutant General United States Army, Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. 15. General Harney to Colonel Casey. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., September 2, 1859. Coloxkl: The general commanding instructs me to ench'-se, tor your ormiuion, a copy of a communication he addressed "■> Governor l\v:\\\s, under date of the 24th of August, in answer to the governor's Iter to himself of the 13th of that month, which you have doubtless In, it having appeared in the Victoria papers. Tmm the tenor ul this answer you will perceive it is not the inten- jnofthe general commanding to remove any portion of the present |ce on San Juan island from that position until the ord-^rs of the tsident are communicated on the subject Vou are therefore instructed to make such preparations for the cora- , efficiency, and health of your command as will anticipate a period at least six months, am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASANTON, Captain 2d Dragoons, A. A. Adjutant General. * Cvjionel S. Casey, isinth Infantry, Commanding Camp I'icketf. San Juan Island, PugeVs Sound. 'r .' •t'^ V^ A ' .'I r ■ I I'j I ■-' I) 62 i|J' 1; |:|- 11 '4m ■is ■■*^ AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 16. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., September 14, I859, Str : I have the honor to enclose, for the information of the general! in-chief, copies of two affidavits verifying the accusation of attetnptJ outrage upon one of our citizens on San Juan island, which wu charged to the British authorities and the Hudson's Bay Compan Vancouver's island in my communication to Governor Douglas of til 6th of August. The affidavit of Lyman A. Cutler, the person upon whom thet. rage was attempted of being taken by force to Victoria for trial ] British laws, fully and completely refutes the denial of Goverwi Douglas, transmitted in his communication of the 13th August] copy of which has been sent to you. ******* The want of propriety and good faith on the part of the Britiii officials is so apparent, in the course pursued by them towards t, selves in the matter of San Juan island, as to have forced GovemJ Douglas into a flimsy evasion of the facts which so strongly condemil them, and it is not surprising that Governor Douglas should atteJ to throw discredit upon my action in the occupation of San Juanafta being compromised by conduct he dares not acknowledge. Governor Douglas speaks of the Hudson's Bay Company establiilj ment as one of no significance or responsibility, and that its acfsaij no more to be considered than those of any other of the inhabitai of Vancouver's island. In the face of such a statement I consider] my duty to inform the general-in-chief that this insignificant coiiipaij has a positive military organization, with a discipline exceedini' rigor that of our own service. The forts of this company on thisc(«( are armed with guns of much heavier calibre than any we possess, in its service are steamers that can readily be api)lied to war jjurpcj The authorities of this company have boldly claimed the excIuiiJ ownership of San Juan island, warning the United States officer, CiJ tain Pickett, from the island, and threatening him, at the same tin with the civil authorities if he did not obey. This was reported il my communication of the 7th of August to the Adjutant General,sij accompanying reports of Captain Pickett, copies of which havel furnished your office. This is the establishment whose acts GoverJ Douglas cp'ls upon us to ignore, but which he carefully supports! its aggressions by both the civil and naval forces under his orders, I trust the British government will see how useless it will Ik i them to attempt to maintain a course of conduct that exposes thenij the reflection of having used unworthy means to obtain that towli they have no claim, and showing the Hudson's Bay Company tokj willing cat for extr, ting the chestnuts from the fire. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, (Jommanhd Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York City. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 63 16 a. C^qiiSGTON Territory, Whatcom County: On this 7th day of September, A. D. 1859, appeared before the under- irned, a notary public in and for said county, Paul K. Hubbs, jr., [ho being duly sworn, on his oath deposes and says : That he had 1 interview with General Harney while on his visit to this island, 1(1 stated to the general that there had been some trouble between be of the American settlers and some of the officers of the Hudson's fjiv Company. Upon being asked by the general the cause of the uiible, he said that a short time since Mr. Cutler, one of our citizens, ad shot a hog belonging to the said company, and immediately went Mr. Griffin, the superintendent, and offered to pay for the hog. [r. Griffin became enraged, and declared that the Americans were a Lck of intruders, and said that he was a fool for ever allowing a fnifed States inspector of customs to come on the island. In the iternoon of the same day the Hudson's Bay Company's steamer leaver arrived from Victoria, with Mr. Dallas, a director of the Hud- In's Bay Company, Dr. Solmie, a chief factor, and some other parties, tio after holding an interview with Mr. Griffin, called on Mr. Cutler, bd used some very threatening language, and, among other words, ley said that they had a posse on beard, and would take him pris- ler and carry him to Victoria for trial. PAUL K. HUBBS, Jr. ISubscribed and sworn before me this 7th day of September, 1859. HENKY R. CROSBIE, •J Notary Public. 16 6. RRiTORY OF WASHINGTON, CouKity of Whatcom : Lyman A. Cutler, being duly sworn, deposes and says : That he has JBn a resident of San Juan island since last April, at which time he uted one hundred and sixty acres of land, agreeably to the preemp- Jnlaw, and upon which land he has ever since resided. ihat on or about the 15th of last June he shot a hog belonging to I Hudson's Bay Company ; that immediately after so doing he pro- |ded to the house of tlie agent of the Hudson's Bay Company on the lind, Mr. Griffin, and intormed him of the fact, stating that it was pe in a moment of irritation, the animal having been at several m a great annoyance, and that morning destroyed a portion of his Men : he desired to replace it by another, or they could select three , and whatever valuation they might place on the animal he would nee pay. Mr. Griffin, very much enraged, said the only way it fU he settled would be by him (Cutler) paying one hundred dollars. I rqilied he was astonished both at Mr. Griffin's conduct and his I it ^siji 54 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 1; ♦•■■fc I .1 ■:!i proposal, and left him. The same afternoon Mr. Griffin, in company with three other persons^ came to his house. He afterwards learned they were Mr. Dallas, one of the directors of the Hudson's Bay Com- pany, Dr. Solraie, a chief factor, and a Mr. Fraser. Mr. Dallas asked him it he was the man that killed the hog ; he answered, yes. Mr. Dallas then, in a very supercilious manner, asked him how he dared do it. He replied that was not the proper way of talking to him ; that he dared do whatever he thought was justifiable, and he had no cause to blame himself in the matter ; as soon as he had killed the animal he went to Mr. Griffin and offered to make him a proper reparation- that he was ready to do it then ; had he chosen to have acted otherwise, he could have said nothing about it, and Mr. Griffin would have never known his loss ; the animal was so worthless he would never have troubled himself about it. Mr. Dallas, in reply, stated this .vas British soil, and if he, Cutler, did not make the reparation demauded — one hundred dollars— he would take him to Victoria; their steamer (the Hudson's Bay Company's steamer Beaver) was in port, and they had a posse at their command. He answered, Mr, Dallas must be either crazy or deem him so, to pay one hundred dollars for an animal that was not worth ten ; and as for taking him to Victoria for trial, that could not be done ; when they brought their posse he would have his friends to resist them ; this was American soil and not English ; and whilst he was willing to answer beforeany American tribunal for what he had done, no English posse or authority should take him before an English tribunal. Mr. Fraser commenced speaking about its being British soil, &c. ; he (Cutler) declined, how- 1 ever, having any conversation with him on the matter ; he had said all he had to say about it. Dr. Solmie said nothing. Mr, Griffin siciplv i asked him if he ever knew him (Griffin) to disturb any of the settlers | or insult them ? he answered, never before that morning. As they rode off one of the pnrty remarked, "You will have to | answer for this hereafter," or words to that purport. Their manner and language were both insulting and threaienin»;, Afterwards, on the 2^h of June, the morning Captain Pickett landed, the British steam frigate SatelMtearrived and landed Mr, DeCourcy, who | was installed as British magistrate for the island of 8an Juan, as Captain Provost publicly stated ; at tho time he left Victoria nothing was knowjl of the landing of the American troops ; it seemed evident that tbt magistrate came over for the purpose of apprehending him, (Cutler;) that he understood process was issued by the said DeCourcy to coiiipel| his attendance to answer to his chfirge ; that Captain Gordon, 1 English constable, with a posse, came to his house during his ahsencej on or about the 29th or 30th of July ; word was sent to him byMr.l Crosbie, the American magistrate, to come in and place himself undeil the protection of Captain Pickett ; that he came, staid one day, i returned the next. Captain Pickett having informed him it ttel attempted in any way to interfere with him to send him word,andlif| should be protected at all hazards. He is convinced that if troops l not been on the island he would have been taken by force and cmi\ before an English magistrate ; his reason for this belief is based cat fact that the Engiieh force ou board the steam frigates AFFAIRS IN OREaON. 55 Tribune had orders to obey any requisition that Mr. DeCourcj should make on them. LYMAN A. CUTLER. Subscribed and sworn before me this Tth of September, 1859. r^. s.] HENRY R. CROSBIE, Notary Public. Port Townsend, Washington Territory, September 3, 1859. Esteemed Sir : I find that we have some disappointed or annoyed gentlemen (by the recent movement of General Harney) that are puff- in" the letter of Governor Douglas in reply to that of General Harney. The general, it seems, did not say in his letter anything relative to the inroads and murders committed by the northern Indians, but con- fined himself to the immediate subject of grief, that of threatened taking of an American citizen to Victoria for trial. How beautifully the governor in his reply " finesses" out of. In substance, he says that " the government did not threaten," &c., all of which is true theoretically ; but practically, the Hudson's Bay Com- pany, with half a dozen armed steamers, the government governor being the head of the company, and hi« ■ "n-law, Mr. Dallas, the chief director and the power that practice » • -ves the Hudson's Bay Company and the governor, did land and ^> to " the man that shot the boar," and threaten to take him on board their steamer (not the government steamer, but that of the Hudson's Bay Company) to Vic- toria; and finding they (five of them) could not do it, left with a [threat to send the " Plumper," a British government frigate, for him, and, as I am reliably informed, did afterwards put the magistrate on the island, who sent three times after him, every time being watched by our peace officers and posse with reliance on our government {officers and men. Very truly yours, &c., PAUL K. HUBBS. I am not personally acquainted with General Harney, but his |timely aid and position taken meets the unbounded admiration of the citizens of this Territory. P. K. H. His excellency the President, James Buchanan. 1,1 .Af« f4 i^^ *; 'ill 17. Governor Gholson to General Harney. Executive Office, Olympia, W. T., August 21, 1859. Sir : In view of the excited state of a portion of the people (Gov. included) on Vancouver's island, «&c., I have thought that a 56 AFFAIRS IN OBEGON. l-i judicious regard for the welfare of this Territory and the success of our arras, (should a collision occur,) perhaps, made it my duty to inform you that we have about (1,000) one thousand of small arms (850) eight hundred and fifty muskets, (ordinary,) and (150) one hundred and fifty muskets, (rifled,) and (4) four twelve-pound raoun tain howitzers, and that for noae of these have we a shot, shell, or cartridge. Permit me to say, general, that as we shall be wholly dependent upon your orders for a supply, (if I correctly unders and the regula- tions of the War Department,) I i . all be pleased (e her now or at such time as your discretion may direct) to receive whatever supplies you may think proper to ordar to this place. 1 have the honor to be, general, your most obedient servant, R. D. GHOLSON, Governor of Washington Territory, Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, Headquarters Department of Oregon. ■ i 't [Endorsement.] Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W, T., September 19, 1859. Eespectlully forwarded for the information of the general-in-chief, who is notified that eighty-five thousand rounds of ordinary mueket I ammunition, fifteen thousand of rifled musket, and two thonsanii rounds of mountain howitzer ammunition has been placed at Fort | Steilacoom, subject +o the requisition of Governor Gholson, in casec an emergency. W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding, ' 'j ■jil 18. General Harney to Mr. Floyd. Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., October 10, 1859, Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com- 1 munication of the 3d of September last, transmitting the views of tltj President of the United States in reference to the military occupatk of San Juan or Bellevue island, as reported in my despatch of thel9t! of July last, addressed to the general-in-chief. Since the date of that despatch other events have transpired, whkil are conclusive in showing the intentions of the colonial authoritiesc:! Great Britain were directed towards assuming a positive jurisdidkl over the island of San Juan. These occurrences have all been reporteij in a regular course of correspondence to the general-in-chief, duplicateij having been transmitted to the Adjutant General. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 57 1 -M ^ The President expresses an anxiety to ascertain whether, before proceeding to act, I communicated with Commissioner Campbell, who was intrusted by the government of the "i. tc'' States, in conjunction with the British commissioner to decide v^ie boundary question. In reply, I desire to intbrra his excellency the President that no oflScial communication had passed between Commissioner Campbell and my- eelf, in reference to the boundary, previous to tbe occupation of San Juan island by Captain Pickett's company, for the reason that no exigency bad arisen requiring it. In the personal interviews I have had with Commissioner Campbell since my arrival on this coast, he has always assured me that there could be but one solution of the boundary question under the treaty of June 15, 1846, and that was to be obtained by taking the mid-channel of the " Canal de Haro," or (^traits of Haro, as the boundary line between the United States and Great Britain. He has several times stated that a strict construction of the treaty will not only give us the Haro group of islands, of which Saa Juan is the most important, but also the Saturue island, which is yet nearer to Vancouver. This island, he said, he was willing to give to Great Britain, under a liberal and generous constructio.n of ■ the treaty. In each of these interviews Commissioner Campbell has deplored the course pursued by the British government in the opposition they made to the settlements of this question, and the delays continually i seized upon by the British commissioner to prevent coming to an early j decision. Commissioner Campbell appeared to be earnestly impressed I with the conviction that the British government intended to keep this an open question until some future time, when they could advance their claims to better advantage, as they had no foundation in justice or right. I saw Commissioner Campbell for the last time at Semiah- Imoo, on the 7th day of July last ; at that date neither he nor myself jlad any knowledge to induce us to believe the colonial authorities of [Great Britain had attempted to assume jurisdiction over San Juan. [When Captain Pickett's company arrived at San Juan, it appears Com- Imissioner Campbell was making an exploration of the islands in the IHaro group, and visited San Juan the day Captain Pickett landed ; he pcndered the captain every assistance, and approved the course that had leen pursued. Captain Pickett landed on the 2Yth of July, and Com- missioner Campbell remained in that vicinity until the IGth of August, when I received a private communication from him, a copy of which Is enclosed. I immediately answered it officially, giving him my reasons in full for occupying San Juan ; this would have been done at ^.lietirao Cfiptain Pickett's order was issued, but I did not know bis diereabouts until I received his communication. A copy of this Answer to the commissioner is also enclosed, and a copy of his reply pted theHOth of August. 1 would respectfully call the attention of the President to the unqual- Rwldenial of Governor Douglas, in his despatch of the 13th of August, liat any Htteiiii)t had ever been made to arrest an American citizen lud convey him to Victoria to be tried by British laws. At the very Nment this denial was being penned, three British ships-of-war pie in that harbor, by the orders of Governor Douj^ias, to support ■ ' 4 58 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. m m i}} Btipendiary magistrate sent by Douglas to arrest the same citizen, (Cutler,) of San Juan, who would have been arrested a British American citizen, gunner, j oi isan Juan, wno wouia nave oeen arrested but for the positive interference of Captain Pickett ; indeed, so press- ing and urgent were the British to iiossess themselves o'' "utigf that Captain Pickett did not hesitate to report his capture couui only be averted by occupying the island in force. Such are the facts of the case, in which the British government fur. nished five ships-of-war, carrying one hundred and sixty seven .-juns and from two to three thousand men, to an unscrupulous colonial gov! ernor fo/ the purpose of wresting from us an island that they covet, Such punic faith should never be tolerated, however plausible the pre- text upon which it may be founded. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. 8. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Hon. Secretary op War, Washington City, D. G. i li I u ■'r i 1 * it 18 a. Steamer SnuBRicK, San Juan Harbor, August 14, 1859. My Dear General : Captain Alden is about to leave the harborforl Fort Vancouver, with despatches from Colonel Casey, and I take the opportunity of dropping you a line in relation to the state of affairs j resulting from the landing of troops on the island of San Juan. When I learned from Captain Pleasonton that Captain Pickett'jl company was ordered to San Juan, I thought it was a very proper! movement for the protection of American settlers from northeri Indians, and from the interference of the Hudson's Bay Companj'j agents, who had recently been threatening to take one of theBettleril to Victoria for trial ; and I did not anticipate from it any serious objecf tion on the part of the British authorities of Vancouver's island- certainly no forcible opposition — troops at various times heretolbrtl having been sent there at intervals, in small detachments, for theprof tection of the settlers against the Indians. But I happened to be making an exploration of the archipelagos the time Captain Pifkett arrived, and for several days after ^ was anchored in this harbor; and I soon saw that it was going t( produce a great excitement unless managed with great Jiscretkl Before I saw Captain Pickett's instructions I did not suppose it possi- ble that any collision could arise between the United States and EdjI lish troops, and I took it for granted that liis duties would be confined j to the objects specified hereinbefore. While the boundary Une s remains unsettled, and the commission appointed to determine tli(| boundary line still existed, I did not suppose any resistance would lifj made by Captain Pickett to the landing of the British troops, ifthejl thought proper, as a matter of protection to English subjects on til island, to station a force on the island. It did not seem to me^undfl AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 59 ■■W.A nresent circumstances, that we should be justified in going to the extent of refusing to allow them to land troops for peaceable purposes. I ♦pyml that Captain Pickett had different views, derived from your instruc- jions anil he confidentially showed them to me. I perceived that they were susceptible of the interpretation he gave them, though they were not directly mandatory on the subject ; and supposing it possible, if not probable, thai you might have received instructions from the War Department ibr the occupation of the island, I felt ;i delicacy in inter- fering further in the matter lest I might be disturbing plans well co" sidered by you and determined on by the government. At the same time as I bad no intimation on the subject from the State Department, 1 felt conbiderably troubled lest there might be some misunderstand- I was called upon officially by my colleague, Captain Prevost, the British comraissioner for the settlement of the water boundary, to take j steps individually, or in concert with him, to protest against the armed occupation of the island, it being intimated that British troops would belauded. As I did notconsider it my duty, as a commissioner, to inter- fere with the operations of the military forces of either government, I declined to take the steps indicated. Thus far no serious results have followed from the presence of troops on the island ; but there is a good Ideal of excitement among the authorities of Vancouver's island, and, [doubtless, a great deal of mortification, ani, if I may be permitted to [advise, I would recommend eaution, so as to prevent if possible any Icollision, which, I think, under no circumstances ought to be allowed |to occur. However certain may be your conviction that the boundary line, laccording to the treaty, should run down the Canal de Haro — and I Ihave never hesitated, when asked, to say that such is the ground I have taken as commissioner, and that in this I believe I will be sup- bwrted by the government — still the question has not been authoii- patively decided ; and unless you have some intimation from the War )epartment which has governed your actions, I fear that the decided tction you have taken in declaring the island American territory may fcomewhat embarrass the question. I shall be greatly relieved to learn |kt you have some authority from the government for the decisive Itep you have taken, though I do not pretend to ask or desire the in- lorraation in my official capacity. I thought it possible, if you had ]io directions from home, that you might be in error on some point Kgarding the joint commission, and therefore have taken the liberty If letting you know that it still axists, notwithstanding the slow [regress made in settling the boundary question. I presuQie Colonel Casey has fully informed you of everything that [as taken place since his arrival, and therefore I need say nothisig prther. Hoping you will excuse the liberty I have taken in writing you thus keely, I am, ray dear general, very respectfully and truly, your obe- pient servant, ARCHIBALD CAMPBELL. Brigadier General W. S. Harney, United States Army. '' >V nl "I n ii(r"f!' r GO AFFAIRS IN OREQON. Note by the Department op War.— See General Harney's letter to Mr. Campbell, Ausjust 16, with No. 11 of these papers. ' I • * 18 6. Camp SemiahmoOj August 30, 1859. My Dear General : I had the pleasure of receiving, on the 22(1 instant, your letter of the 16th, placing me in possession of the facts connected with the occupation of San Juan by some of the troops under your command. For the trouble you have taken to furnish me this information, in the midst of more pressing and important occu- pations, I beg to return you my sincere thanks. Had I known your views earlier, I should have been free from the embarrasfment expressed in my letter to you of the 14th instant. The rumor in regard to my departure foe Washington city 'tad no foundation whatever. In a few days I contemplate a trip along or near the 49th parallel as far as Fort Colville. I shall return to this place^ via the Colurabij river, towards the middle of October, by which time you will probablv have received answers to your despatches to Washington, which I trust may be satisfactory to you. Looking forward with pleasure to meet- ing you at that time at Fort Vancouver, I am, my dear general, very respectfully and truly, your obedient servant, ARCHIBALD CAMPBELL. Brigadier General W. S. Harney, United States Army. '■:4'J m 19. General Scott to the Adjutant General. Headquarters of the Army, Portland, Oregon, October 22, 1859. Sir : The general-in-chief desires me to report, for the informatio of the Secretary of War, that he arrived in good health at Fort Vai couver on the night of the 20th instant, and had an interview witk | Brigadier General Harney the following morning. The answer of that officer, of October 10, to the Secretary of War, in answer to his communication of September 3, gave an account of the affairs existing at the island of San Juan to that period, since | when nothing of interest has occurred. Captain Pickett, 9th infantry, the judge advocate of a general court- martial, ord^^r-^d by General Harney to convene at Fort Vancouver,] whoarrivec' yesterday, just from the island, reports everythin' quiet, ard ^'^ le British vessels of war had all returned to tlieiri usual ai • ' near Victoria except one — the Satellite. The Sit, :. . . j'ierner, on which the general is a passenger, lesTf!| this place this afternoon for Puget's Sound, and, on her arrival in thosf go WaterH, it IS Tiia intention to uu uumu. 6/Tn.TTOT'nTVionf cfpamPi :| AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 61 Massachusetts, at Port Townsend, and from thence open a correspond- ence with the British authorities. The general does not intend to s9 beyond the limits of the United States. Commissioner Campbell is on his way from Colville to Fort Van- couver, and may arrive at the latter place in a day or two. I have the honor to be^ very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. THOMAS, Asaialant Adjutant General. Colonel Samuel Cooper, Adjutant General U. 8. Army, WasMngtonf D. C. ,.y 20. General Scott to the Adjutant General. Headquarters of the Army, Ft 't Townsend, W. T., October 26, 1859. Sir: By direction of the general-in-cMef I enclose, for the informa- Ition of the Secretary of War, a copy of his communication of yester- day's date to his excellency James Douglas, governor of Vancouver's [island, and its dependencies, containing a proposition to serve as a Iksis for the temporary adjustment of the difficulties existing at the {island of San Juan between our government and that of Great Britain. [Lieutenant Colonel Lay, who was charged witl the delivery of the [communication, is momentarily expected, in the revenue cutter on this iBtation, with the governor's reply, and if received in time for the mail [a copy thereof will also be enclos'd. The general-in-f hief further intends to send the substance of the Icommunication by the overland mail from San Francisco to the com- nanding officer of Fort Leavenworth, with instructions to telegraph Itlie same to the Secretary of War. The steamer Northerner takes her departure from Fort Townsend [tliis morning, via Victoria, for San Francisco, where she is expected jto arrive in ample time, with the mails, for the steamer to leave that wrt on the 5th proximo. This communication will be sent by the Mirtherner. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. THOMAS, Assistant Adjutant General. Colonel S. Cooper, Adjutant General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. i , H i T ^1 ['] ^1 ! 69 t AFFAIRS IN OREGON. \ 7 ih\ 21, General Scott to Mr. Floyd, [Tolpgram.] FucA Strait, October 27, via Leavenworth, November 24. Hon. J. B. Floyd, Secretary [of War,] Washington. Tmo days ago I despatched from Fort Townsend a comraunication to Governor Douglas, proposing a temporary adjustment on the banij suggested by the President in his instructions to me. There has been no answer yet. No doubt the proposition will be accepted. Ev^rj. I thing tran(juil in these islands. WINFIELD SCOTT. 22. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of ORE(iON, Fort Vancouver, W. T. , October 29, 1859 Sir : I have the honor to enclose, for the information of the general- in-chief, a copy of a communication from Lieutenant Colonel Casey, commanding on San Juan island, in which he reports that Rear-Admi- ral Baynes, commanding her Britannic Majesty's fleet on the Pacifit coast, was actually on board the British steamship-of-war "Tribune in the harbor uf San Juan island, at the time Colonel Casey landed his troops, and when Captain Hornby, of the British navy, the com- mander of the " Tribij^e," informed the colonel, in presence of tbi British and American commissioners, that Admiral Baynes wasthei at Esquimault harbor, near Victoria, Vancouver's island. I mentioned this fact to the general-in-chief, in conversation att time of his arrival at this post, but I deem it of such importance showing the duplicity and bad iaith exercised towards us by bothtti colonial and naval authorities of Great Britoin in reference to Sai Juan island, that I desire to place it on record. This statement exposes three high officials of her Britannic Majestj service, viz: the British commissioner, the admiral, and the seuj captain of the navy in these waters, to the imputation of having erately imposed l wilful falsehood upon the authorities of a triemilj nation to advance the sinister designs of the British governraentii obtaining territory that rightfully belongs to the United States. Is it too much to suppose they would be guilty of like conduct slioiili they be permitted to assume a position in which it would aid M purposes ? I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, _ W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Covmandini. The Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Array, Port Toivnsend, Fuget's Sound, W. T. C.irwLv; \ island, njin 'the time of [inliintry iro Jiriterview w LMajesty'sfle J!i(in state th (to the fldg-sl |tliLMi(Iniiial ( |flKmght It di [tlif general ( rnjue.st that i f'tlie 12th A 8oon after i Sir, Caniphel Javnes was a birbor of San lin Hornby, jioners, that t\ listant. I was sornew een dealt by v [rough t about I resolved, ] Ptei the admi Joiight it not (ie]nir/)oseof ^t'ry res Lieuteui. [Captain A. Acting As '^^' After th( lonias to the A '"'^' ^v-ith Wie fi« a -'Lst ultimo. "IS h.it9 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 22 a. >!i^' 63 mher 24. iraunicatiou jn the \im ;re ha» iwn ed. Every- > SCOTT. .BOON, T 29, 1859, if the general- lolonel Casey, j,t Rear-Admi- on the Pacifit] i,r "Tribune," Casey landeil lavy, the com- resence of tb lynes was then nd. ersationatt importance ill us by hoth tM ference to Sal ^nnic Majesty'! and the senia ,f having dei 8 of a trienilj governmentii ;ed States, I 1 conduct slwnl vould aid M Fort Vancouver, W. T., October 28, 1859. C.\rTAiN: In my communication of the 12th August, froii San Juan i island, narrating the events which had transpired on that island, from the time of my arrival with a reinforcement of three companies of iiiliintry from Fort Steilacontn, it will be seen that I had reqiiested an interview with Rear-Admiral Baynes, commanding her Britannic blajesty's fleet on the Pacific coast. As I did not in that communica- liiuii state the principal reason which governed me in not proceeding [to the flag-ship Ganges, for the purpose of having an interview with Ithe admiral on board that ship, in the harbor of Esquimault, I have tliou^ht it due to myself that that reason should be made known to ^he "encral commanding the department, and I would respectfully eqiiest that the following be considered a part of my communicatiou I til') 12th August, 1859, viz: Soon after my conference with Captain Hornby, 1 was informed by Mr, Campbell, the United States commissioner, that Rear- Admiral Bavnes was actually on board the British steamship Tribune, in the liiirbor of San Juan island, at the very time I was informed by Cap- iiin Hornby, in the presence of the British and American commis- lioners, that the admiral was at Esquimault harbor, twenty-five miles listaut. 1 was somewhat astonished at this, and considered that I had not eon dealt by with that openness and candor which the object to be Irought about seemed to demand. I resolved, notwithstanding thi. , to comply with my promise to k'ei the admiral at Esquimault harbor ; but knowing what I did, bought it not incumbent on me to repair o.. board the Ganges, for ke purpose of the contemplated interview. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SILAS CASEY, Lieutenant Colonel 9th Infantry, Commandiny on San Juan. I Captain A. Pleasonton, Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. 23. General Scott to Mr. Floyd. Headquarters of the Army, At Sea. December 8, 18.V,). m: After the despatch of October 26, by Lieutenant Colonel lomas to the Adjutant General, I had no opportunity of communi- |inj,' with the department before the steamer from San Francisco of * 21st ultimo, and in her I embarked for horae. his letter will be accompanied by copies of my correspondence and m Ma h V. ;. 1 m V ■] 64 AFFAIRS IN OREQON. >. T on the %. ordtTB on the subject of the island of San Juan, wliilo I was Pacifio coaHt, viz : 1. My comniiinication to Governor Douglas, October '25. 2. Hasty nietnoratulum by Tjieutonant Colonel Lay, October . [Copies were communicated by Lieutenant Colonel TlioiuaH's despatch 3. Governor Douglas to me, October 29. 4. My letter to Governor Douglas, November 2; and 5. Project of a temporary settlement, November 2. 6. Governor Douglas to me, November li. 7. My letter to Governor Donglas, November 5. 8. My special orders — sending troops from San Juan, November o 9. Governor Doug' s to me, November 7 10. The same, enclosing deposition, &c., November 7. 11. My letter to Governor Douglas, November 9. 12. Extract of instructions to G-^neral ILirney, November 9; and 13. Extract of instructions to Captain Hunt furnished Oovernoi Douglas, November 9. 14. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas to Captain Hunt, November 9. 15. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas to Lieutenant Colonel Casey, Ko vember 9. 16. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas to General Harney, November!), 17. My letter to General Harney, November 16. 18 Special order, November 15. It will be seen that the British governor having assured me thatlf entertained no design of attempting the dislodgoiuent by force of om troops from the disputed island, I immediately, in order to take from our position every semblance of hostility or menace, took measurest) reduce that force to a single company of infantry, with its jJroperarE only, (ior the protection of American settlers,) with the nnderstandirij that, in the same 8i)irit, one of the vessels of war (the larger) in tb harbor of San Juan would also be sent off at an early day. And here it is proper to remark that, from the beginning oftiit recent dilHculties, there has virtually been a joint occupation of tin island by our troops in the land, and by one or more British vesselsofi war in the harbor. I have the honor to be, sir, with high respect, your obedient servam W INFIELD SCOTT, Hon. John B. Ft,oyd, Secretary of War. 23 a. H;^, Headquarters of the Aemv, Fort Townsend, October 25, 1853, The undersigned, lieutenant general and commanding in chief tbl army of the United States, having been drawn to this frontier bvt!;;| apprehension of some untoward collision of arms between the forces::! the United States and those of Great Britain in and about the isla-^ of San Juan, the sovereignty of which is claimed by both nations, di AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 65 nothe»itate, in the great intoroNtH of peace HHHumed to be nn important t.icr.e |iiirty as to the other, at once toMubmit (or the conHideration of his exoi'llt'ncy the following propoHition, to Herve as a biiHiH for the U'liiiioruiy adjiiHtinent of any jircHent difficulty, until the two govorn- iiiiiits hIiiiU have time to Hettio tlio ([ueHtion of title diplomatically. Without prejudice to the claim of either nation to the Hovercignty of tliet'iitire iBumd of San Juan, now in dispute, it is proposed that each shall occupy a separate portion of the same by a detachment of infantry, ritleaK'n, or marines, not exceeding one hundred men, with their i„,|,ro|»riate army only, for the equal protection of their respective omiitryinen in their persons and property, and to repel any descent uii the [lai't of hostile Indians. Ill modification of this basis any suggestion his excellency may tliink ntciHsary, or any addition he may propose, will be respectfully I nsidered by the undersigntd. This communication will be handed to his excellency by ^iieutenant Loloiid Lay, an aide-de-camp of the undersigned, who has the honor to subscribi^ liimself, With liigh respect, his excellency's obedient servant, WINFIELD SCOTT. His excellency James Douglas, Esq., C. B., Governor of the Colony of Vancouver's Island and its dependencies, and Vice- Admiral of the same. 23 &. Hasty Memorandum. Victoria, Vancouver's Island, Night of October 2G, 1859. His excellency Governor Douglas authorizes me to say that, having jjf't had no time to consider in detail the proposition offered by Lieu- Ittnant General h!cott, nor to consult with his official advisers here, he lis (it a "Jtlance satisfied that no obstacle exists to a completely amicable jnnd satisfactory adjustment (continuing throughout the period of diplo- liiiatie discussion respecting the title to the island of San Juan,) either jupun the plan suggested by General Scott, or some other that may be Imiitiially agreed to after advisement. His excellency has read this memorandum and retains a copy. G. W. LAY, Lieidenant Colonel U. S. Army. if* 23 r. Victoria, Vancouver's Island, October 29, 1859. Sir : I have had the honor of receiving by the hands of Lieutenant polonel Lay your note of the 25th instant, communicating to me the H. Ex. Doc. 65 6 ■^•i 66 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. :!■■ .',:;* m i? reasons which have drawn you to the frontier of Washington Terri. tory, and for the great interests of peace, making a proposition to serve as a basis for the temporary adjustment of the present difficulty, arisine out of the occupation of the island of San Juan by troops of the United States. 2. In the first place, I beg you will permit me to offer you ray warm congratulations upon your arrival in this neighborhood, and the assur- ance of my earnest desire to co-operate with you in the most cordial spirit. 1 1 liank /ou lor the frank and friendly tone which characterizes your note, and I trust you will believe me when I say that if I am not able entirely to accede to your views, it proceeds solely from the neces- sity which exists under present circumstances that I should take no step which might in the least embarrass the government of her Brita; nic Majesty in any line of action which they might think fit to adopt. You have been specially accredited by the government of the United States, and I fully appreciate the fact ; but I, on the contrarv am not in possession of the views of her Majesty's government, on thij matter, and, tli'n-efbre, am not at liberty to anticipate the course they miy think fit to puraue. 3. You propose, without prejudice to the claim of either nation to the sovereignty of the entire island of San Juan, that each shall occiipv a separate por*-ion of the same by a detachment of infantry^ riflemeu, or marines, not exceeding one hundred men, with their appropriate arras only, for the equal protection of their respective countrymen in their persons and property, and to repel any descent on the part of hostile Indians. For the reasons above given you can readily under- stand, sir, that were I to accede to this proposition I should at once be committing her Majesty's government, and I believe I should at tlie same time, on their behalf, be assuming an attitude which I do no: think they would now be desirous of maintaining. I admit that tlie protection of the citizens of both nations who are now resident on the island is a matter which cannot be overlooked or lightly treated, but the principal protection that may be required is from dissensions amongst themselves, and not against hostile Indians, from whom Ido not a{)prehend there is the slightest danger of molestation. 4. 1 again assure you that I am most cordially diaposed to co-operate I with you in the frankest manner to assist in removing any and every cause which might unhappily disturb the particularly satisfactoryre- lations at the present moment existing between her Majesty's govern- ment and that of the United States ; and I conceive that the end can | be best attained by replacing matters at San Juan as they were betbrs the landing of the United States troops — the " statm' established on I the moderate and conciliatory views laid down in Secretary Marcvjj despatch to Governor Stevens, of the 14th July. 1855. 5. An arrangement on that footing would bring the whole aflairiol a conclusion satisfiactory to both parties, and ^o highly honorable to the government of the United States that I feel sure it would at oncel remove any cause of complaint which her Majesty's government might I be reasonably expected to entertain. G. I would, therefore, submit for your consideration that for the! protection of the small British and American population settled on the I rcc I I imve the h jiltimo, (tlie ''gsr) in reply t( ^^ is with rogi faedifite San Jm four acceptance, AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 67 )n Terri- I to serve S arising le United my warm the assur- st cordial .racterizes ;' I am not the neces- d take no nt of her hink fit to lent of the e coDtvary, ent. on tins course they r nation to hall occupy y, riflemen, appropriate mtrymen in the part of adily under- I Id at once be liould at tlie ich 1 do not nit that tlie id ent on tlie treated, hut dissensioLj n whom 1 do' 1. to co-operate ly and every iisfactory re- ity ' 8 govern- 1 the endcaa were before I tablished on | ;ary Marcy'j j liole affair w lonorable to [ould at once island tliere should be a joint civil occupation, composed of the present resident stipendiary raagistratea, with such assistants as may be neces- sarv and that the military and naval forceSj on both sides, be wholly withdrawn. 7. Should it, however, hereafter appear that a military force is in- dispensable for protection, I can see no objection to such a force being lauded upon San Juan, with such understanding as the British and American authorities may mutually determine upon. S. It is no doubt, sir, fresh in your recollection that the riginal proposition, which, the better to show its probable workings il adopted, I have somewhat elaborated in the accompanying ^'Projet of a temporary settlement, ((■c." I am persuaded that, on mature reflection, you will find nothing in it to hurt English pride or to prejudice English interests, but much to soothe past irritations on both sides and to prevent any local conflict, The details of the plan are no doubt susceptible of improved modifi- cations, but I must candidly say tliat I do not see how I can positivelv | consent to a change in the principle. llitrhlv appreciatins: the personal compliments of vour cxcellencv. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 69 ami reciprocating the kind feelings which prompted them, I have the honor to remain, with high consideration, your excellency's most obedient servant, WINFIELD SCOTT. His excellency James Douglas, Esq., G. B., Governor of the Colony of Vancouver' ft Island and its dependencies, and Vice- Admiral of the same. 23 e. Prqjet of a temporary settlement, &c. Whereas the island of San Juan, in dispute between the govern- ments of the United States and Great Britain, is now occupied by a detachment of United States troops ; protection against Indian incur- sions having been petitioned for by American citizens, resident thereon, and against such occupation a formal protest has been entered on be- half of her Britannic Majesty's government by his excellency James Douglas, esquire, C. B , governor of the colony of Vancouver's island and its dependencies, and vice-admiral of the same — It is now proposed by Lieutenant General Scott, commanding in chief the army of the United States in behalf of his goveiument, and in deference to the great interests of the two nations, that a joint occu- py cy be substituted for the present one, which proposition being accepted by his excellency, it is hereby stipulated and agreed between the said Scott and the said Douglas that the substitution without pre- judice to the claim of either government to the sovereignty of the entire island, and until that question shall be amicably settled, shall consist of two detachments of infantry, riflemen, or marines of the two nations, neitluv detachment of more than one hundred men, with their appro- priate arras only, and to be posted in separate camps or quarters for the equal protection of their respective countrymen on the island in persons and property, as also to repel descents of marauding Indians. And whereas pending such join occupation a strict police over the island will be necessary to the maintenance of friendly relations between the troops of the two nations, as well as good order among the settlers, it is further stipulated and agreed between the parties, signers of these presents, that the commanding officer of each detach- ment composing the joint occupation shall be furnished with an authen- ticated copy thereof by the respective signers, to be regarded as a warrant and command to the American commander from the said Scott, and to the British commander, from the said Douglas, to seize and confine, or to banish from the island, any person or persons what- ; soever found or known to be engaged in fomenting any quarrel or mis- understanding between the officers or men of one of the detachments [and the officers or men of tlie other, and, further, to treat in like man- [nerall other offenders against the peace and good order of the island; I it being, however, expressly understood and enjoined that such measures |0f correctioa shall only be applied to American citizens, or persons I ii\\ 70 AFrAIRS IX OREGON. claiming to be such, by tbe American commander, or to British suLjects or persons claiming to be such, by the British commander. 1 r 1. ■ u I: ■■ r; ^t( Vm'- If,' i. ■'•1; hi 23/. Victoria, Vancouver's Island, November 3, 1859, Sir : Lieutenant Colonel Lay yesterday placed in my hands your despatch of the 2d instant, conveying to me your sentiments upon tbe subject of my proposal for the temporary adjustment of affairs in con- nexion with San Juan, and informing me that you are unable to accept that proposal. 2. 1 regret, sir, for many reasons, that you did not accede to ov Skiggestion of a joint civil occupation as a temporary expedient for preserving tranquillity, and especially so because the course you pro- pose to me of a joint military occupation is one which \ cannot asspnt to, or carry into effect, without the sanction and exprcBS instructions of my government. 3. I am authorized to maintain all treaties as they exist, but notti alter the i)rovisions or to disregard the stipulations of any ; and, it short, I am sensible that it would not be advisable for me to anticipate by any action on my part, the instructions I may soon receive t'roii her Majesty's government, unless there was an evident and imperatm necessity for the adojjtion of such a course, which necessity, in mi opinion, does not exist in the present instance. 4. I conceive that protection against all ordinary danger to whicli either British subjects or American citizens residing on the island oi San Juan are exposed may be fully attained without resorting to tlie extreme measure of a joint military occupation ; and, moreover, tl expediency of affording protection to individuals who may settle ( territory the sovereignty of which has not been determined may justly I be questioned. Protection under such circumstances can, indeed, hardly be considTed as a duty incumbent on governments; and, oo my part, I am not left in doubt on the subject, as my instructions direct me to announce with reference to this colony that protectioo I cannot be afforded to persons who, by wan'lering beyond the precincts | of the settlemeuts and the jurisdiction of the tribunals, voluntarily expose themselves to the violence or treachery of the native tribes. 5. You must permit me, sir. further to add, that her Majesty's] authorities in this colony have, w;th respect to the United States, com- mitted no violation of existing treaty stipulations, nor been guilty of any f^ict of discourtesy whatsoever towards the government of that I nation, but have on all occasionn during the late exciting events! exhibited a degree of forbearance which will, I trust, be accepted asa gup.rantee that by no future act will we seek to impair the pacific rek- tions existing between Great Britain and the United States. 6. Should you, sii", alter the explanations I have herein given in I reference to my official powers and position, proceed to carry out your .1 a: — ptvCiuC mission, SDU uiVcS stthe je military force now on Saa fe AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 71 of its menacing attitude by removing it from the island, we will •nsfantly withdraw the British naval force now maintained there; and as soon cs I receive the instructions of my government, I shall be glad to co-operate with you in arranging a plan for the temporary mainte- niinco of order and protection of life and property upon the island. 7. In the meantime you may rest assured that we will not disturb {inQ '^status" of San Juan by taking possession of the island, or by assuming any jurisdiction there to the prejudice of the position in which the question of title was placed by Mr. Secretary Marcy and her Jlaiesty's representative in the year 1855. • S. Again assuring you of my desire to act with you to the utmost of iiower in the most cordial manner and with the utmost frankness and sincerity, and renewing to you my expressions of high consideration and respect, I have the honor to remain, sir, your moot obedient rvnd huuble servant, JAMES DOUGLAS. Lieutenant General Winfield Scott, Commanding in Chief the Army of the United States. 23 g. Headquarters of the United States Army, False Dungenness Harbor, W. T., November 5, 1859. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge a second communication from your excellency dated the 3d instant. Being assured therein that there is no intention on your part to attempt to dislodge, by force, the United States troops now in the temporary occupation of the island of San Juan, without instructions to that effect from your government, and being perfectly persuaded that the very cordial relations which DOW happily subsist between the United States and Great Britain render the receipt of such instructions extremely improbable, I do not hesi- tate at once to order the number of the United States troops on that ishand to be reduced to the small detac'iment (Captain Pickett's com- pany of infantry) originally sent hither in July last lor the protection j of the American settlers (such protection being petitioned for by them) I against neighboring and northern Indians. A copy of my orders in the easel enclose herewith for the informa- tiuu of your excellency. They will be fully executed as seen as prac- I ticable by the employment of the United States propeller Massachusetts, the only craft suited to the purpose in these waters. I have the honor to remain, with high consideration, your excel- llency's most obedient servant, WINFIELD SCOTT. His excellency, James Douglas, Esq., C. B., Governor of the Colony of Vancouver's Island and its dependencies, and Vice- /Admiral of the same. After the foregoing communication was despatched, the general-in- Ichief (leteruiined to leave Captain Hunt's company on the island, f ''M m H .*t-^^*- I'FT >• , HI'.! i ■■i 5:j -IJi ■' I *■' <^^ PcfjhTjT''. J»t»^i»»w« 72 AFFAIRS OREGON. instead of Captaia Pickett's, and a copy of his >^der, after modifica- tion, was subsequeurly sent to Qovernor Dougl.iv to replace the one previously transmitted. Trie following is a co;iy of the order as finally issued. L. THOMAS, Aasiaiant Adjutant General 23 A. [Rpe-;ial Orders No. — .] Headquarters of the Army, U. 8. Propeller Masmchusetts, W. T., November 5, 1859. As soon as practicable Lieutenant Colonel Casey or other comrii; nl. ing officer on the ishmd of San Juan will proceed to ■■end theic-iijoi all the companies t.Loer his orders, except Captain Hunt's, to tii posts to which they -md previously belonged, viz : company I of ■}. 4th infantry to Fort iVv nsend ; company A of the 4th and H of the 9th infantry to Forf. 8lei)acoom ; company I) of the t!th infantrvto Fort Bellingham ; and lasj lart 'CiJi laaies ot the 3d artillery to Fort Vancouver. Captain Hunt and his company nod a.'istHnt surgeon Craig will remain on the island till lutther i.Tv)f'";4 hv the protection of the American settlers. Jjieutenant Colonel. Caecy 'vill canst the heavy guns on the island to be r .;j[ilaced aboard uf this propeller, and will send the light batterv to Forts Townsend, BellinghTm, and iSteilacoom. B'"^ coEni:3and of Lienteuant General Scott. L. THOMAS, Assisstant Adjutant General. w 23 t. VjvroRiA, Vancouver's Island, November 7, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge your communication of the] 5th November, announcing your intention to order the withdrawal of certain co;npai)ip.s of United States troops now in temporary occupatioii of the islanr! of San Juan, and your 'ntention to leave Captain Pickett j company of infantry for the protection of the American settlers against neighboring and northern Indians, and transmitting acopyofjonr orders in that case to the commanding officer in the island of San JuaD, 2. I shall have much pleasure in communicating your inteution to her Majesty's government, who will no doubt accept it as a proof of the desire of the United States t" resto.'-e the former status of thai puted territory. 3. I trust, sir, that instructions will be issued to the officers of the | United States, directing them to abstain from all acts in the disputed territory which are calculated to provoke conflicts, and in no case tj I attempt to exclude BritL^h t-ubjects by for. or to interfere with them in any manner, or to exercise sovereign o- , .dusive rights within the [ disputed limits; and on our part her -. -^ .sty's authorities williiej AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 78 jenioineil to abstain from any acts of interference or of exclusive juris- diction until the question of title is settled. 4, In that way I sincerely hope that all collision may be avoided. With every assurance of esteem, I have the honor to be, sir, your Imost obedient servant, ' JAMES DOUGLAS. Lieiiteu-vnt Genera) W. 8cott, Comwanding i,i Chit/ the United States Army. •«>''..>j C'.f 23 i. ViCTOKiA, Vancouver's Island, November 7, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to emlose to you herewith a deposition which )iasbeen foiwavded to .o.e ma.h by one William Moore, aBritisli sub- ^ict. rtncvrning his havi«^ been apprehended by the United States luthi '•Hies oil Sar, Jn^n iBlrind, and compelled to work in the trenches, Und, vhen reli^ased, ^i; prived of the sum of oeventy-five dollars. 2, I bring i'i;8 matter to your notice with the full assurance that loiiwill cause it to be investigated, and such reparation made as the jircumstances may demand. I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, JAMES DOUGLAS. Lieutenant General Winfield Scott, Commanding in Chief the Army of the United States. 23 y. [Enclosure.] 1 1, William Moore, state as follows : I I. That I am a British born subject, and a native of SHgo, in lelaad. III. I have been trad* A^ith my canoe between Victcia and Bel- Tue island for nearly tv,o rjonths, dealing in onions, potatoes, bread, plk, and sometimes liquor, taking with me on several trips from two jlive gallons al a time. |1I1. Early on the mornirj^' of the 16th September last I sold to a ity of the name of Powell, who is an employe of the Hudson's Bay Impany, a bottle of rum, for which I received the sum of ono dollar. |well returned shortly after he took the rum away, and aske ' me if men good terms with an American of the no-*; of ''row ; j tsaid I never '^een on bad terms with him. A^, •.-'(. an hour at><>r this brred, i -x-.v this party — Crow — .ir.d the siieriff coming down to- Irds n t The sheriff said, "I ha.) a warrant for you, my an „ you to come along with me." I went with him to '"ou! ase, and arrived there about 8 o'clock in the morning. s tried the f.amc day, pA the judge (Crosbie) said I was ' Hi I; H MM •^>i,v*; '■f^ 74 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. w ['^f guilty, and ordered me to the guard-house till next day. I wastlieJ put into a teat with six or seven soldierH, who were i)ri8oner8 amll after I had been there about half an hour, the sheriff said hey I orders to search me, and accordingly took my purse, containinc Jiui) I V. On the morning of the 17th, the prisoners turned out to work I and I answered to ray name, when it was called, and Bubsequentilf went to work in the trendies, vollings tones and shovelling earthtWl Previously, however, *:. going to work, I asked the sergeant ot t J guard if I was to work with the rest ; when he replied, " that heyl orders from Captain English, the officer of the day, to put me toi with the rest." VI. I worked in the trenches till the prisoners were called in J prepare for dinner, and between 2 and 3 o'clock a constable, bytlij name of Cutler, took me to the court-house. Judge Crosbie then! a constable to lake seventy-five dollars from my purse, which m lying on the table, which he did, and gave me the rest of the moDetl and I was then informed that I was discharged. Judge Crosbie nereil asked me if I was a British or American subject. his WILLIAM + MOORE, mark Sworn at Victoria, on this sixth day of October, in the year of Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty-nine, before rae been first read over and explained to the said William Moore, »! seemed perfectly to understand the same. DAVID CAMERON, C. 7, I, Richard K. Powell, employe of the Hudson's Bay Corapanv.ii Bellevue island, state as follows: That I personally saw Willia Moore at work in tlie trenches, on Bellevue island, on the 17th l^ep tember last, along with other prisoners, and I believe he was so [ to work in consequence of orders from the court, or Judge CrosiiJ the magistrate on the island. R. R. POWELL. Subscribed in presence of us, who have hereunto set our narafsij (D) JOHN COPLAND, o/ Yates street, Vidork] (D) WILLIAM YILLEGK, of Esquimault. 23 k. Headquarters of the Army, U. S. Propeller Massachusetts, W. T., November 9, 185 Sir: I have thehoq.or to acknowledge the receipt, at the same t of your two notes of the same date, the 7th instant. I am pleased to learn that " her Majesty's authorities [onSanJiaj island] will be enjoined to abstain from any acts of interference «j AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 75 set our names « m elusive jurisdiction [in respect to American citizens] until the qnes- |(,nuftitie is settled." In the Hame spirit I had earlier determined to instruct our coramaud- Dff officer on the island to allow no person claiming to be a I'unction- fy of Washington Territory to interfere with any British subject 'eiidin''or happening to be on the same island whilst it shall remain in dispute between our respective governments ; and I shall add this rther instruction, that if any British subject should become a dis- rber of the peace of the island, or a seller of strong liquors to Amer- goldiers, without permission fiom their commander, the latter ihall represent the case to the nearest British authority, and respect- iiliv ask for the instant removal of the offender ; and if afterwards he ail return to the island without permission, the American com- aiider may expel him therefrom without further ceremony. I touch the complaint of William Moore, supported by his deposition, esented to me by your excellency, with great reluctance — first, be- use the wrong done him, if any, was mainly at the hands of a judge, presume, of Washington Territory, and consequently beyond my ntril; and, second, because I do not doubt that Moore has grossly 'stated or exaggerated his case. I am at a distance from the island (i jioiu every officer who may have known anything of the trans- ticn in question, and am, moreover, in the act of taking my departure ir Washington, but shall refer the matter specially to Lieutenant lonel Casey, the present commander on the island, who will investi- itethe complaint carefully, and who, I am sure, will take pleasure in ressing, so far as may be in his power, any wrong Moore may have istained. And your excellency will not fail to perceive that I have my instructions to Captain Hunt, as shadowed above, taken mea- es to guard against future interference with British subjects. I have the honor to remain, with high consideration, your excel- cy's most humble servant, WINFIELD SCOTT. {His excellency James Douglas, Esq., G. B., Governor of the Oniony of Vancouver's island and its dependencies, and Vice-Admiral of the same. [Enclosure.] 23 k. he following extracts of communications, addressed from the lijuarters of tlie army to different commanders, were furnished to I excellency Governor Douglas, with the general-in-chief's letter of veraber 7, 1859 : 'The genijral- in-chief wishes it to be remembered that the |ereignty of the island (San Juan) is still in dispute between the gDVtrnmentSj and, until definitely settled by then, that British Ijects have equal rights with American citizens ^ le island. "L. '.^OMAS, •'•Assistant Adjutant General." 1 » ■' ri ' I \ i > '-V>, i , \ : i 'f P-" ' I ^ ^ t : £y< '^%^^fiiflltfiblyii^£^ 76 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. [To CHptain Hunt, commanding comptiny C, 4th infantry, San Juan island.] 2. " For your information and guidance I put under cover with this copies of the general's communications to the governor of Van- couver's island, dated the 5th and 'Jth instant, rospectively, as also u copy of his special order on the same subjeci. These j)aper8 will show the spirit in which it is expected you wi^! .cu.i the delicate and important trust confided to you, the {revuTai ua' rjg full confi- dence in your intelligence, discretion, anu (in w'uut is of equal im- portance in this case) your courtesies. "L. THOMAS, ''Assistant Adjutant General." i .VA'i ii: ■I 23 Z. Headquartes of the Aemy, U. S. PRorELLER Massachusetts, Off Port Trwnsend, W. T., November U, 1859. Sir: Your company, with ol'., its appropriate arras, is to be left alone on San Juan island, whei. you will revert to the instructions from the headquarters of th-^ department of Oregon, dated July 18, 1859. For your information and guidance I put under cover wift thii copies of the general's communications to the governor of Vancouver's island, dated the 5th and i)th instant, '. aspectively, as also a copy of his special orders on the same subject. These papers will show you the spirit in which it is expected you will execute the delicate and im- portant trust confided to you, the general having lull confidence in your intelligence, discretion, and (in what is of ei^ual importance in this case) your courtesies. It is, further, the direction of the general that after the departure of Captain Pickett's company you occupy his part of the camp, where your men will be better sheltered during the winter, and also he further removed from the establishment of the Hudson'^ Bay Com- pany. Captain Pickett will, of cof-se, be at liberty to take back to Fort Bellingham the property carried over to iKt island, sr ;h as doors, window-sash, &c., as also his company property, bni it is hoped that pome part of the excellent shelter lie erected may he transferred to you. I am, sir, very respectfully y your obedient serviii,, L. THOM.VS. Captain Lewis C. Hunt, Commanding Company 0, 4.th Infantry , San Juan Inland. 23 m. Headquarters OF the Army, U. S. Propeller Massacitt- ;etts, Off Port Totvnsend, W. T., November 9, 1859. Sir : I herewith put under cover, for your information and govern- ment, the following papers, viz : 1. A copy of Special Orders, dated November 5, 1859. AFFAIRfl IN OREGON. 77 2. An opon packa;:;e for Captain Hunt. I am (luMired by tho general-in-chief to a^d that ho wihIu ^ yuU to leave with Captain Hunt's c{iiu^)any two offectivo Huhalterns. 1 endoHe a copy ot an affiilavit made at Victoria tho 6th of October hist 'iiy William Moore, claiming to be a British subject, who cora- itlaina of injustice done him, not only on the part of the civil authori- tic'H of Wasliington Territory, but on that of the military. His state- ment is no doubt grea«!y misstated and exaggerated, but the general wishes you to make a careful examination of the case, and redress, a8 far as may be in your power, any wrong Moore may have sustained. He wJHbeH you, further, to furnish the colonial secretary of Vancouver's island witli the results of your examination. J am, sir, very respectfully, vour obedient servant, L. THOMAS, Assistant Adjutant Gent -al. Lieutenant Colonel Silas Casey, 0(fker Commanding at Han Juan. 23 n. HeADQUARTBBS OF THE AhMT, U. S, pROPELLER MASSACHUSETTS, Off' Port Townsend, W. T., November 9, 1859. General: By direction of the geuiral- in-chief I enclose for your information and guidan'^'^ the following ])aper8, viz : 1. Ct ; 08 of the geneiu. n-chief's < oi in unication to his excellency Governor Douglas, dated 1' 5th and ' . instant. 2. A copy of Special Oru*. , dated the 5th instant. 3. A copy of my letter to Cf-ptain Hunt, dated the 9th instant. These papers will show you hat extent the general has interfered in tlie aft'iiirs of tlie department ot Orriron, except that he has made free use of the United States propel h^' Massachusetts, on board of which vessel he made his headquarters Captain Hunt will be left on the island of San Juan, under your instructions of July 18, modified by my letter to him dated the 7th instant; but the generalin-chief wishes it to be remembered that the sovereignty of the island is still in dispute between the two govern- ments, anil, until definitely settled between them, that British subjects luiveeiiual rights with American citizens on the island. Ciiptiiiu Fauntleroy represents that the Massachusetts leaks badly, anu that r^'pairs are necessary, which can better be done at San Fran- cisco tills winter. The general-in-chief concurs, but gives no orders on tlie subject. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your ohediem servant, L. THOMAS, Assistant Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, Commanding Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. m 78 IFFAlRis IN OREGON. 23 0. Headquarters of toe Army, St. Helen's, Oregon, November 15, ISVJ. Sru : Intending at the first moment to urge tluit the two very best i(i\v that to umauder of to the ohl |olV, in Sau viz: tliiit |)»)[)8 certain Vantage on In Francisco Ih) tliis only li the wliolo Ide ilUistra- tlie troops forced into If a want ot ]l bear very and appre- honsion any cliango having the tendency to produce other disasters of like cliarfictcr. ]\lii(;h of the advanceinent of this section of our Pacific coast is duo to the annual emigration fr(»rn the States in the east. Under tho (h'partiiii lit organization of this year ample protection has been given totlie ciuigraiitH, and, 1 am hup[)y to say, with complete success; would it not he well to test thoroughly a system producing such good results before considering a change? Tiie advantages to the troops in point of efficiency are in favor of the retention oi the department of Oregon, and should not pass un- noticed. The .soldiers are always better cared for, and the rules and regulations iiiforeiiig di8ci[)line and duty are more strictly observed, to the advancement of economy and the regularity of service, under the sn|K'rvision and in the j)reseriee of an oPicer of rank and authority, than when he iri i)laced at a distance from them ; in that instance he depends for his intbrniation on the reports of others, which are not unfrcipU'iitly incorrect from carelessness or design. Another iin|iortaut reason 1 ought not lo omit in this enumeration for retaining a well-ai)pointed command in this dejiartment, is its isolated jjosition and close proximity to the teriitories of a power with whom we have a boundary in dispute, and whose known v.ant of faith and integrity is only to be met soccessfully Ijy a firm determination (111 our part not to be trilled witli. Jn coiiclnsion, 1 beg lo assure his excellency the President that the [luhlic interest alone has induceil me to present to his consideration the propriety and necessity of maintaining the dei)artment of Oregon as it is now organized. Indeed, it is pertinent to this occasion for me to say 1 bolieve the President has been aware, tor some months past, (if my earnest desire to return to the east lor tlie purpose of seeing my Ikniily, lrhmild esteoni it as a high favor if his excellency would extend this indulgence to me at his earliest convenience. 1 liave tlie honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HAllNEY, Bn'guditr General, Comriuinding. Cidonel S. Cooi'KU, yldjnlaiit General U. S. A., Washington Oifij. 'ifp. — General llarney to the Adjutant General. Hkadquartkus Dki'aktment op Okeoo.v, Fori Vaneouver, W. T., January '24, ISfiO. CoLoNKi, : 1 have the honor to enclose, for the information of the War Dcjiartment, a certilied co}»y of a resolution relative io IS;in Juan II. Ex. Doc. G5 G 'I 1 !ii i I Iti^sji 82 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. island, wliicli has passed unanimously the legislative assembly of Washington Territory. 1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HAKNEY, Brigadier General, Commajiding. Colonel S. Coopkr, Adjutant General, Washington City, D. C. ' fi* 26 a. Council of Washington Territory — *lth Session. Whereas it has come to our knowledge that attenii)tH are makin"- or will be made, to merge the military department of Oregon into the department of the Pacific, and in case this is not effected, to cause IJrigadier General William S. Ilarney to be removed from command • and Whereas we believe that said department was established for good and sufficient reasons, which reasons still exist in as full force as when said department was established, the interior of our Territory bein" still oceui)ied by numerous tribes of Indians, only restrained from hos- tilities by the presence of large bodies of troops, and our I'ron^^ier bein"' still liable to murderous incursions of powerlul and savage hordes of Indians living upon a foreign soil ; and Whereas experience has shown that, in order that tliese troops may act promptly and efficiently for the protection of our Territory, it is necessary that the head(]uarters of the department should be of conve- nient access, wliich would not be tiie case were it removed to the State of California ; and Whereas General Harney, in all his official acts while in command of this military department, by jjrotecting us from Indians, domestic and foreign ; securing and maintaining ])eace by revoking tliose un- lawful military orders, under which an attemjit was made to exclude our citizens from portions of our Territory, which, under tlie laws, were open to settlement ; opening communications between difterent portions of the Territory ; protecting emigration by placing troops on the island of San Juan, an island which is as unquestionably American soil as any other ])ortion of our Territory ; for the i)rotection of Araer- ican settlers against fore gn Indians, and against attempted acts of ibreign jurisdiction, has deserved and secured the entire confidence of the people of this Territory : Therefore \w it liesolved, That we, the legislative assembly of the Territory of Washington, earnestly and respectfully protest against any eliauge by which the military department of Oregon shall be merged into any ■other department, and agaiiist its head(juarters being removed. Jiesolved, That we respectfully and earnestly solicit the President of the United States to continue the present able, experienced, anil ])rudent officer (Brigadier General Ilarney) in command of said mili- tary departmeut. ssembly of EY, manding. ire making, [];()n into the ed, to cause 1 command ; led for f]jood orce as when •ritory being td from hos- •onHer being ge hordes of p troops may rritory, it is bo of conve- l to the State n command ns, (U^niestic those un- to exclude tlio laws, n difiererit ig troops on y American on of Araer- pted acts of ontidence of Territory of y change by ed into any loved. 10 President rieiiced, and jf said niili- .'0 AFFAIRS m OREGON. 83 liesolved, That we firmly believe General Harney has acted in a iM-udeiit and proper manner in placing a military force on the island of San Juan for the protection of American citizens irom foreign sav- ages and wanton aggressions of foreign officials : 1. Because .he island is clearly ours under a fair construction of the treaty. 2. Because said island is within the military department of Oregon, it having been, by an act passed in 1854, at the first session of the legislative assembly of this Territory, made a part of the organized county of Whatcom, which act was duly submitted to the Congress of tlie United States, as by the organic act is required, and has not to this day been disapproved, and is still the law of the land ; and 3. Because, at the time, the circumstances of the case requir ;d that a military force should be placed there. Resolved, That General Harney, having rightfully placed a military force upon said island, would have been recreant to his trust had he failed to support it with all the power at his command when it was threatened with an attack by a foreign nation. Resolved, Tliat having the fullest confidence in our title to the island, our right should be maintained at all hazard. Resolved, That we most respectfully ask the proper authorities to revoke the odious military order placing San Juan island (a portion of Whatcom county) under military rule. Res'ilved, That we have the fullest confidence that the President of the United States will act justly and firmly in the premises, and that American rights will be fully vindicated by him. Resolved, That oopies of these resolutions, duly signed and certified, be sent to our delegate in Congress, to be by him submitted to the President of the United States ; and also to General W. S. Harney. We hereby certify that the foregoing resolutions is a true copy of the original, unanhuoushj passed by the legislative assembly of Wash- ington Territory. JOHN D. BILES. Speaker of the House of Representatives. H. J. G. MOXON, President of the Oouncil. January 7, 1860. i ; !'•■■ I ■i - i 84 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ir. JIILITARY AFFAIRS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF OREGON". 1. Tie Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington , September 14, 185S. General: In irnnsinitting to you the enclosed " general orders" No. 10. I am directed by the Secretary of "War to communicate the following instructions, which are to guide you in prosecuting the war againht the Indians of Washington and Oregon Territories : The canii^iign, already commenced hy I3revet Brigadier General Clarke, must be prosecuted with the greatest possible vigor ai\d activity, and the hostile hands must he thoroughly chastised and sub- dued. There will be no cessation of the campaign i'rom the winter, that being on many accounts the most I'avorable season for striking at the luiines and herds of the hostiles. The fall of snow, at no time sufficient to prevent the ready operations of troops in the valleys lying between the Cascade and Kocky mountains, where the Indians dwell and graze their animals in winter, is, nevertheless, so great in the mountain ])asse8 as to prevent their passage by the Indians. Thtir i'amilies and herds will thus be readily readied by the troops, and n') exertions should be spared to ca])ture the first and destroy the last. No overtures of friendship shunld be made to any tribes before tlie chastisement of the hostiles. It would be taken as an evidence of weakness or fear, and exaggerate rather than relieve the evils of a ■war with those ])eople. Undoubted evidences of friendship towards the whites by any of the tribec should be met in a spirit of kindness^ b\it overtures shou''' not be made to any. The Secretary further directs me to say that he expects you to let no opportunity pass of communicating events to the War Department, and to tiiis end he desires you to forwaid to the Adjutant General dupli- cates of your reports, which, in the ordinary channel, will i ass through army headquarters. 1 have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E, D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, United States xiivnj, Washington, 1). C. la. GENERAL ORDKRS No 10. War Di:i'aut.ment, Adjutant General's O/Jicc, Wa.'^hin-cisco, California, Ov'ober I'J, 1858. Major: T have the honor to report ray arrival at this place en route to my cotutnaiid in Oregon and \Vasliington Territories. Getieral Clarke, who has just arrived from the seat of Indian diffi- culties, inibrms me that the hostile bands have sued for [)eace, and hive fully complied with the conditions \ii imposed upon them. I have therefore considered, alter consultation with General Clarke, it would be more (expedient to retain the Oth regiment of infantry in aT'.ice in Ciilifornia than transfer it to Oregon at this late season, the exigency for tlieir })resenco being removed^ and the number of troops ^ , 86 Al'KAIKN IN Oltr.doN. P- ni)w |ir(*N(u i'U(|uiri)d tor Uioiii during tint vviiilcr. (*iv|)tiiiii IMciiNoiitoii, liinitcniiiit doNiii), uiid Mio Uuv. 1*. «l. DuHtnot iirt> «)ii duly will) nut, ufrroi'iihly to ttxiHlin^ onUu'H. I Hill, miijor, wiy itmin'oil'iiliy, your ohtidii'iit H(«ivHiit, VVM. H. IIAHNKY, lii'itjttdivr (Henernl Unileil tiUitiH Army. Major .1. I\I(!l)o\VKi,i,, ytKnitit. Adjt. iUn, I/tudt/unrh'rs Armi/, N. V. (Hty. \\. (inurof llarni'ii to dnicrat Scott. KouT Van«'oiivkh, W. T., Odofwr 24, iar.8. Sm : T l\uv(> <1.«. htuior to rcixu-t. my arriviil ut tluM j»oNt., tliin inorii- iiig, litter t'. V <' iiLM' of lliirty-tliroo day.s I'rom New York. An tlio Htcauicr wliii* nuiyt'd mo rttturiiM iiniiicdialtdy toiSan KraiK-'iMco, tliin (MiMiiiuiiicutit It irt rt'udcrcd to lu> NtMit by it. to avoid a d(>lay of two wi't'ks, until till' t'.iii ■ dfpartnro of till' next, mail wtoamcr. In my report from San I'^anciHiv- it \v»;m Hlated that, after consiiltii- tion witli (Jeneral ('larki>,an arranneini'iit had liiu'n dittermiiitni U|ii)ii to delay the lith rej^imeiil iif infaiitiy in Caliloniia for wervice in (Iml, de|t.uttnent, retaining; tlie troooH now Nervin^^ in Washin;^t()ii and ()regon 't'ei riloricN for the department of ()rejj;on. ThiH arra'aj^eiiu'iit to ho Mihjeet to the approhation of higher authority. Kronuill the information I have hetelailcil 'cptirts of the state of alVair^ under my command will lie transmitted as soon as correct andiiuthentic information ot' the sumo is ohtained. Captain .\, rieasont(»n, ~d drafj;oons, aelin«; assistant adjutant j^en- oral, and the Uev. l*. .1. l>e Sinet accompanied me to this place. Tpoii his own application, permissiou was '^ranted to Hrevet Second hieu- tenant ('. K. riesup, ot the IDth inlanlry and aide-de cimp, toji)iiiliis rcgitnetif. lie was left at San Fnincisco tor this purpose. I am, sir, verv respccttnllv, vour ohedient servant, W. S ilAKNKV, lirujiul'wr General, U. S. Annij. Assistant Aiui tant Gknkuai,, Jlemlqitarters of (he Army, Sew York City. AFI'MUS IN OllKOON. 87 dtniriod hj il lor tlimn J. DtiHiiuit VH Anmj. T., 24, 18r.H. , tluH morn* k. Am tlio iiu^iHco, tliirt Ifluy ut' two IT (MHIHllltll- llilKu'l Uf)l)ll vici' in iliiil. liii^ton tiiid ) I Ills time, i«'n' .slioiiM 'iiivc hi't'ii I'l I Ml a '"1 >t I rill"; 10- ciiuiitiy t>t' ("to till' iin- nvo not left anil will Iw it' tilt,' siiino jiitant f;oii- \m\\ Tpon iiH'uml liioii- ), to joiiiliis ^^ Armtj. 9 :{ a. lOrdriM, Nkw Youk City, Seplcmhcr 20, IHfiH. Urcvef, Second Liontonant 0. K.JcHiip, oltlio lOth iriCiintry, liiivinj? icMdilril lot' duty nn aid('-(li!-i;iinip, lio will accompany tlio general to li'oil VancoMvcr, WaHliitif^ton TiTtitory. |{y order ol I'rijijadicsr (jeneral Ilarney: A. PLKASONTON, Cojitain 2d DrutjoouHy A. Ay.cr2\), 1858. Slit: 1 liiive the honor to Huhmit a report from Coloncd (1. Wrifjjht, of the lltli infantry, iti relation to the present diHposition ami f'eelin}^ of the IiiiliaiiH, who were hut recently in a ho.stilo attitude to the {^ov- eniiiiei'J and citi/.enH of this country. (lopie.s of three treaties, which littvolieen made with the Sp()kanes,thoCauir d'Alene8,and iNezPercoH, are also enclosed. It wili he seen from these oommunicationH that a material changfo 1ms lici'ii elVeeted in tho minds of these savaf^es as re;j;ards the power as Will as the determination of the }j;ovc'rnment to carry out its meas- ures ('(niei'r.iinf; tluMii. Tliey have a(!cordiiij;jly made; very fair promises, and have thus tar fulHlled the conditions jireHcrihed. Two of the jirineijial instiij;ators of the late distnrhances are still at larj,'e, and il is reporteti they have tied to the Flathead country. 1 shall insist upon their heinj; «;lvon u[) ; and then, I'rom all the infor- mation 1 can ohtain from every ijuarter, I am inclined to helieve the Intliaiis in this department can easily he controlled. At an early date 1 shall submit my views of the proper disposition of tlie troops to com- 88 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ■ 1 nmnd the Tmlians in future, and |)rotect tlio emigrant routes to tlie leri'itorics incliulcd in tliis department. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. IIAIINEY, Brigadier General^ Commanding, Assistant Adjutant Ghneual, Headquarters of the Army, Neiv Yorh City. 4 a. Fort Vancouvku, W. T., October 28, IS.'R. Silt : I liave thin moment received your communication of this Oxia, With regard to the ])re.sent disposition and feeling of the various Indians with whom I have heeu brouj^ht in contact during the late campaign, I can assure the general that we have nothing to appre- hend. The Ni'z Fcrcts, Spokoiies, Conir d'AUnci, FeJonscs, Walla- Wallas, and other tribes residing on both banks of the (.olumbia and its tributaries, are now regarded as entirely friendly. Written treaties have been made with the Nc:: PercCs, Sj)oJia7ies, and C(vur d' Alines, and verbal treaties with the smaller bands. The Felouses were (.pverely punished; ten of tlie worst of them were executed, and a cliief with four men with their families carried to Walla-W^alhi as hostages. I have also taken Imstages from the Spokanes and CVcur d'Ah'm's and retain them at Fort Walla- Walla. Witli regard to the Indians in the neighborhood of Colville, there are doubtless some bad men among them, who should be i)uni8hed. Their nets are confined to robbing and ftealing, but 1 have no infor- mation that any murders have been recently committed. A gentle- man residing in Colville valley rote to me a lew days since; he says nothing of the miners having been driven off, or of the Indians having committed any hostilities. I would recommend that an expe- dition be sent through that country next spring, and sucli Indians as deserve it scvertdy punished, and tlien I think we shall have no more trouble in that quarter. I am not in favor . It is agreed by both the 'iwe.. lid parties that this treaty shall also extentl to and incliido t!i; Ne/, i\'rce nation of Indians. Done at the headquarters ot" the cxpiditimi against tho northern ludians, at camp on the Ned-whauld, (or Lahtoo,) Washington Ter- ritory, this twenty-third day of September, eighteen hundred and fifty-eight. rOlILATKIN, SPOIIAN (JAUb'Y, SKULllULL, MOIST-TEUM, SKI-KI-AII-M FAV, SIIK-I;U1I-K1<:-ITS-ZK, ril-AIl-MENK, llOll-MOH-MEH, UrSK-TESH-TUIN-IIIGH, NUll-SHIL-SUE-HIL-SOTE, CHE-LAH-IIIM-SIIE, lirsT-SUlT-TAil, KEH-IIO, G. WRIGHT, Colonel \)th Infantij, Commandin^j. his X mark. his X mark, his X mark, his X mark, his X mark, bis \ niiuk. his X mark, his X mark, bis X mark, his X mark, his X mark, his X mark, his X mark. Hi. AKFAina IN oni:ooN. 91 hdtoetn the I StatcB and iiiiH, for drill till) United governinunt at»8, for mill r to the olli- I coinnu'iicc'd the orders of me cliiot'iind ro good coii- n of Indians /liito jiersons unmolested, ites hIuUI be with l>y the States tro()])H iiiul, further, j^cs, Hhall ill V bo restored it this treaty IndiaiiH. 10 northern liii^'ton Ter- uudred and GIIT, nmandhh/. \H X mark, is X mark. is X mark, is X mark, is X mark, is X mark, is X mark, is X mark, is X mark. is X mark, is X mark, is X mark, ia X mark. (^lIAT/r-Tir-TOSK-SUM, (or Big Star,) liis x nmrk. (;IIKY-Y ;.-lU)TK, his X mark. (,)IIC)I-1,|U()I-Y()N, liiH X mark. IN-HKO-MK-NAY, Imm x murk. ITH-CJIE-MON-NKK, his x murk. nnd 17 other chicfH. WiuieHHcs : (Jujttain E. 1). Kkyks, and thu principal oflictTN of the command. id. ffcalilofpC'O^cc and friendship hrfwcen fhe United Stales and the Nez I'ercf'H tribe. AuTHM': 1. It is a;^'ri't'd that thcro shall bo perpetual peace between the Utiitt'd HtutcH and the Nez l'er(es tribe. Art. 2. In the event of war between tlie United Htates and any other i)eo|de whatever, the Nez Perces agree to aid the United States with men to the extent of their ability. AuT. '-'>. In the event of war between the Ne/, I'erces and any other tribe, tlii! United States agree to aid the Ne/, I'ereos with troops. AuT. 4. When the Nez I'erces take part with the United States in war, they shall be furnished with such arms, ammunitiijn, jirovisions, Ac, as may be necessary. Aht. fi. When the United States take part with the Nez Perees in war, they (the United States) will nut, reijuire the Nez I'erces to furnish anything ibr the troops, unless ])aiil for at a fair price. Akt. (). Should any misunderstanding arise lu'reatter between the truiijis and the Nez Perces, it shall be settled by their respective cliiefa in tVieiidly council. A LAY AN A (and thirty-eight other chiefs.) a. WRIGHT, Colonel \il.h Infantry, Commanding. Witnesses: G. F. Hammond, Assistant Sim/eon, U. S. A., and five other oflicers of the command. IIiOAiMii'AUTKRS United Statics Thooi'.s, Uatiip in the Walla- Walla I'alleij, August (1, 1858. IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) ^ ^J^ 1.0 I.I •^ 1^ III 2.2 1^ III 2-0 1.8 1.25 1.4 1.6 -^ 6" ► V <^ /a "^1 ^ # "^ ^ V Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, NY. 14580 (716) 872-4503 \ vV 92 i s AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 5. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fo)t Vancouver, W. T., November 4, 1858. Sir : I have the honor to inform the general-in-chief of tlie receipt of a report liom Captain I. I. Arclier, ot the 'Jth infantry, command- ing Fort Simcoe, in which it is stated that two of the three surviving murderersof Bolan, viz: "Stahan" and " Wapi-wapi-tla," liad been brought in to that post by a party of friendly Indians, on the 16th ultimo, and that he had caused them to be hung. .Captain Archer further reports that "Sugintch," the only remaining murderer, has since committed suicide, in order to disappoint the Indians who were endeavoring to capture him. This prompt action on the part of Captain Archer is approved. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brio/adier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, Neio lorTc City. 6. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., November 5, 1858. Sir : I have the honor to report that the state of the service as regards the disposition of the Indians in this department lias not changed since my last communication, of the 29th ultimo. Nothing has been heard irom Colville to confirm the rumors which were circulated on my ar- rival, and I am therelbre inclined to believe they had but little iounda- tion. The Indians in this section of tl.e c luntry are entirely different from the great nomadic tribes of the plains, who own and roam over vast regions in search of plunder and game, and all of whose instincts are warlike. The tribes of Washington and Oregon Territories, witli the exception of tliose residing near the Kooky mountains, are small in number, each occupying a limited territory, from which in many cases they obtain a meagre subsistence. The subdivisions of these Indians into tribes are very numerous. Those tribes residing on the Columbia river and its tributaries subsist principally ujjon fish, particularly the salmon, whose annual migration up these rivers forms one of the great curiosities of nature. Otlier ti'il>es live on roots, berries, and such wild fruits as their country affords, and in times of great ])rivation they obtain from the moss of the country, which is very abundant, a glutin- ous substance that supi)orts life. Tiie same improvidence wliicli char- acterizes the Indian race elsewhere is seen here, attended by tlie same results ; and it is not too much to predict that the red men of America AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 93 F OUEGON, iher4, 1858. of the receipt t^ry, command- hree surviving tla," li ad been I, on the 16th !aptain Archer inurdtMer, has ians who were v^ill gradually disappear about the same time from the difTereut sections of onr country. From the different languages, interests, and jealousies existing anion" so many different tribes, a coalition of all of them in one cora- nion cause i.s impossible ; indeed, the events of the past summer havo eliown tlie difficulties which require to be removed before a small num- ber could be made to act together, and these difficulties are out of all proportion to the advantages and facilities the troops possess to crush them. It the reports I have received be correct, another coalition of these Indians will never be attempted. For the welfare of the Indians, as well as the better security of the white settlers, I would respectlully recommend that the Indians of this department be placed on reservations assigned them by the government ior their support and sustenance. A system of instruction in cultiva- tinu' the soil applicable to them should also be adopted, with a proper pro'vision of seeds and implementb for their use. Laws should also be passed defining their positions and their rights upon these reservatio'.is, which should be convenient to the military fstiitions, tliat all controversies between tliem and the settlers may ba decided on the spot, and that the Indian could have a market for his produce when desiring to dispose of it. To secure the emigrant route to this department from the frontiers of Missouri, I shall establish a post in the spring in the vicinity of Fort Fxiisee, (m Snake river, some two hundred and thirty miles from Fort ■\ViiU(i-Walla. At least four com[)anies should garrison this point — two of foot and two of mounted lorce. The road is a good one from Fort Walla- Walla, and it can be supplied from that point. I also respectfully recommend a post near Fort Hall on the same route, but would advise that the garrison, as well as the supplies, be furnished from the d.epartment of Utah^ for reasons of economy anil supervision. As soon as the season will permit I shall establiali a garrison of at least four companies in the vicinity of Colville, to protect the interests of the citizens in that quarter and serve as a check upon the Indian jtrihes wlio were so lately hostile. The establishment of the above-mentioned posts is considered subject [to the revision of higher authority. I enclose a copy of my instructions to the Rev. P. J. De Smet, who, [it will he seen, has proceeded to the C'lour d'Alene Mission, by my directions, to visit the Indians of that vicinity tor the purpose of ob- serving; their disposition, anil to counsel them to observe most faith- fully all the conditions they have promised to iultil towards the gov- lernnient and its citizens. 1 am, sir, very respectlully, your obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant Genkhal, Hmdquartera of the Army, Neio York City. % nf^ 94 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. li! II-.. H 6 a. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., October 28, 1858. Dear Sir : The general commanding instructs me to say that he most cordially approves of your proposition to visit the Coeur d'Alene Mission this winter, for he conceives the happiest results from your presence among the Indian tribes of that vicinity. He has directed that every facility shall be furnished you to enable you to perform in safety the inclement and trying journey you are about to undertake. A copy of his instructions is enclosed herewith. The general desires you to impress upon the Indians you are to counsel the strong necessity existing for them to live up to the condi- tions to which they have so lately subscribed in the treaties they have made, more especially in the surrender of such persons as were demanded of them. Two of these persons, Kamiahin and Schloom, it is reported, have gone among the Flatheads, but that circumstance must not prevent the tribes concerned from using every endeavor to obtain possession of them for the purposes above indicated. While informing the Indians the government is always generous to a fallen foe, state to them it is at the same time determined to protect its citizens in every part of its territory, and that they can only expect to exist by implicitly obeying the commands they receive. The same troops are permanently stationed in the country who met them in the field the past summer, and these will, most assuredly, be placed upon their trail in the spring, with instructions to give no quarter should they again turn a deaf ear to what has been told them, I am instructed to say you will communicate freely with these head- quarters. The best wishes of the general will attend you in the holy mission of charity to which y'- have devoted yourself in fo generous a manner. I am, father, mo;- pectfuUy, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Captain 2d Dragoons, Acting Asst. Adj't Generd. Rev. Father P. J. De Smet, Chaplain, dec, Vancouver, W. T. v. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oreoon, Fort Vancouver, JV. T., November 22, 1858. Sir : I have the honor to repcrt, for the information of the general- in-chief, that I have caused the proper estimates to be made upon the staff departments in California for the supply of this command, in obedience to paragraph V of General Orders No. 10 from the War De- partment, dated Adjutant General's office, Washington, September 13, 1858. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 05 From the reports that I have received, and my own observation, the public interests in this department will be greatly benefited by the despatch of all stores and supplies direct to depot at this point, with- out the expense and delay of reshipping in California. The reasons for this measure will appear so obvious it is unnecessary to mention them here, except to state that the present exigency of a portion of the troops being destitute of clothing, with none to issue and none to be obtained from California, for reasons yet unlearned, will not recur. I trust the commanding general will take this matter into consider- ation, and cause the necessary orders to be given to the Quartermas- ter's, Subsistence, Medical, and Ordnance departments to insure its adoption. Supplies should never arrive later thar July at Fort Vancouver. They can then be shipped economically and expeditiously into the interior, when in the fall and winter their transportation is attended by serious delays and great expense from adverse winds and heavy rains. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,* W. 8. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, Neio York City. 8. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., November 24, 1858. Sir : I have the honor to request the consideration of the general- in-chief to the state of the mounted service in this department. A board of survey ordered to examine the condition of the horses of the four companies of the 6th dragoons at Fort Walla- Walla has pronounced ninety-eight of the number as unfit for service, and should be replaced. Existing orders allow but sixty horses in each mounted company, tlie number of enlisted men being eighty-five. The economy and efficiency of this branch of the service suggest an increase of the number of horses to that of the men; the officers complain that the present inequality of numbers in horses and men renders the success in drill and instructions difficult of attainment. In this remote command, where efficiency is so essential, this increase will inure to the public benefit. Should the general-in-chief adopt these views, at least three hundred horses should be sent early in the spring from Fort Leavenworth, via the South Pass and Fort Hall, to Fort Walla-Walla. Horses requisite lor dragoon service cannot be obtained on this coast. As the dragoon force will be most useful on the route from Fort Walla- Walla to Fort Hall, the emigrant route to the States, they can meet these horses at Fort Hall and provide for them the remainder of the journey. 9G AFFAIK.S IN OI{KGON. Tliis sii|)|)nHrH my rmen have resided lor some montliH jiast. Father liavuilh' lelt (Julville about two weeks since; ho re[)orts tiio Indians in that vicinity as iieaeeful and (luiet. I have directed that tlu? reloiise hostages bo also rideased. lioth ol the ahove-named missionaries assure me th(i Indians will ir.'ver atlemi>l to opjiose the whites in any of tluir measures, as they have fully realized the folly ol' so doiiig. I'^alher Coiigiati, who is the superior of all the upper missions, ]daev s all of his estalilishnuMits at my dis})osition, to su})port whatever policy may be deemed best for the Indians under their guidance. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Assi.STANr Al).n TANT GKN'KUAli W. kS. HARNEY, liriijadier (Ivneral, Commanding. Jkadiii'ur(crf) of the Army, Ak'ic York City. 10. General Ilarnvy to General Scott. llKADQrAUTl^US DkI'AKTMKNT OF OuEUOX, Fort Vancouver, \V. 7'., Novemlter 2[), 1858. Sir: I have the honor to enclose a report from Captain lugalls, assistant (luartermaster at this place, upon the expediency, economy, aiul advantage to the service of supplying the department of Utah from depots reciimmended to be established at Fort Vancouver. The report includes the statements of several reliable persons of Oregon and Washington Territories, with a table of distances from Fort Vancouver to the (Jreat Salt Jiake City, and u map of the country throuj^h which the suj)plies must pass. 'wr? AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 97 force at Fort ])j)or mussions, Upon examining the map of the country on the PaciBc coast, and the country connecting it with Utah, it will be seen an uninterrupted chain of mountains extends along the whole coast from the British possessions to Lower California, rendering access to the interior country extremely dilTicult, and in many places impossible. In Washington and Oregon Territories this chain of mountains is called the Cascade range of mountains, while in California it is termed by its Spanish name, the Sierra Nevada. The bold and astonishing action of the Columbia river in forcing its way directly throdgh the Cascade range of mountains in almost a straight line to the ocean has made the passage of this chain of moun- tains from Fort Vancouver extremely simple and easy. The only land travel which is now required to pass beyond the Cascade moun- tains from this point is over the two portages : one at the Cascades of five miles, the other at the Dalles of fifteen miles ; at each portage there is now a good wagon road. The river is then navigable for good- sized steamers as high up as Fort Walla- Walla, and for smaller craft, the Snake river can be navigated as far as the mouth of the Pelouse river. Again referring to the map, we perceive a great basin or plain ex- tending up the Snake river from the Columbia river to the Great Salt lake. This plain is watered by numerous streams, and the country is represented to be well wooded, with excellent grass. All reports agree in stating that several good wagon routes can be made through this plain from the Columbia river to the Great Salt Lake City. The emigrant route from Fort Hall to the Dalles is at present a good road. The distance to be passed over by land from the proposed depot at Umatilla to the Salt Lake City is estimated at 614 miles, but 1 have been informed that a good route one hundred miles shorter can be made from the Des Chutes river, passing to the head of the Malheur river, down the valley of that river to the Snake river. This route would place Salt Lake City 514 miles from the Dalles, at which point the depots of transhipment in wagons should be placed. Another great consideration in tavor of this route is, that it can be travelled at all seasons of the year ; and I am credibly informed that the month of February is the best time to travel it, as the grasses are then most flourishing. My own evidence at this place supports this assertion^ as the grass here at this time is as green and fresh as it is found in the western States in May. The Sierra Nevada range of mountainsof California cannot be crossed in safiety with wagons before July ; and it is well known supplies can- not be sent from Fort Leavenworth to arrive in Utah before August or September. In point of economy, it appears that ten cents per pound from the Umatilla or Walla-Walla to Salt Lake City would be considered a high price, and in a short time it could be done much cheaper. From New York to Walla- Walla the freight on supplies is not quite five cents per pound. Entire freight from New York to Salt Lake would then be fifteen cents, and probably much less. Compare these prices with the heavy expenses the government has been compelled to incur n. Ex. Doc. G5 7 98 AFFAIRS IN OREOON, (luring the past year for the transportation of Hupplies from Fort Leav- enworth to Utah, and a very large margin will be left in favor of the route under consideration. The country to the west and north of the Salt lake is not so mouQ. tainous, nor does it present the difficulties for obstruction that belong to the country to the east of it. It is accessible at all seasons, and pre- sents a military feature as regards the proposed route which will tend to modify the necessity for maintaining a large force in Utah, where all the elements of subsistence are wanting. Let two strong garrisons be placed on this route ; concentrate a force of two or three thousand men in the department of Oregon ; let the Mormons understand that this force can be placed in their midst in six weeks time, at any season, and they will be very careful not to afford any occasion for its being done. The army in Utah can then be reduced to an efficient garrison. I shall cause a complete and thorough exploration to be made of the country in question early in the spring, at the same time directing a good wagon route to be laid out in the direction of Salt Lake City to the limits of this department. I respectfully recommend to the general-in-chief, and to the gov- ernment, the earnest consideration of this subject, which contains such important results to the interests of the military service ; for I do not doubt that the physical features above enumerated will attract public attention to their advantages in favor of one of the great national high- ways which must soorer or later connect the Atlantic States with those of the Pacific. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding, The Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York Oily, 10 o. Office of Assistant Quartermaster, Fort Vancouver, W. T., November 22, 1858. Captain : I take the liberty to submit herewith communications ■which treat of routes that lead from this department, by the line of this river, to Utah, to the Great Salt Lake City. These communica- tions were written by some of the most experienced, reliable, and best informed citizens in the country. Accompanying are also a map and table of camps and distances which will indicate the various routes that cross the "rim" between the valleys of Snake and Humboldt rivers, or the Salt lake, and the resources of the country as regards water and grass. I have the honor to submit these for the perusal of the general com- manding this department, to whom I have supposed they would not be without interest from the positions he has held, and may hereafter hold, in his official capacity towards Utah and its singular inhabitants. AFFAIRS IN OREGO?!. 99 lentrate a force When these letters were written it was thought by many that Gen- eral Johnston wonld require aid in the way of troops and 8M[iplie8 before they coiiUl reach him either from the Missouri or Now Mexico. I was Biitisfied //ten, from my own observation of the country, that he could obttiin that assistance by the line of the Columbia river at any season of the year much quicker and equally as economical than from any other competent source. I know now that had events rendered it necessary to send aid to him at that time from this quarter, it could have hoen easily accomplished. There was no time durinj? the winter of 1857 and 1858 that troops could not have gone from Walla- Walla to the Great Salt lake in tne space of six iveeka. There was another object in ascertaining the character and lengths of the routes. If the vist interior of our domain is to be occupied by our troops stationed at different points, the questions of "in what way and by what sys- tem can they be most easily, surely, and economically supplied," are wortliy of the most profound consideration. I do not assert that the troops now in Utah can be supplied from this river at this time cheaper than from the Missouri, though I certainly think such is the fact ; but I am sure that as the resources of this coast become developed and multiplied, all the troops between here and Green river can be sup- plied far more economically from this depot than from the present point of supply. Fort Walla-Walla, a post in this department three hundred and fifty miles inland, but to which I now forward its sup- plieH hij xoater, is as near to Great Salt Lake City as Fort Laramie, on the Platte. The overland distance from Fort Leavenworth to the Great Salt Lake City is 1,250 miles over two separate chains of mountains. Many portions of the route, with few resources for large trains, can be passed over only in summer and early fall, while the distance through trom Walla- Walla, many persons say, does not exceed 500 miles, certainly not to exceed what is set down in the table herewith accom- panying, over the Blue mountains simply, and through a region well watered and grassed. I presume that supplies can be landed here from New York city via Cape Horn for one cent per pound. . im now forwarding them to Fort Walla Walla for less than five ( ants per pound. A wagon train can go from Walla- Walla to Salt lake and back the same season, and pack trains can go over the route at any season. What it would cost per pound I cannot state, but should conjecture that contractors would undertake it at less that ten cents. When the Walla-Walla valley becomes settled it can then be done much less in my opinion. The distance from Walla- Walla to Great Salt Lake City by the way of Fort Hall, over a well-known and perfectly prac- ticable wagon road, is only about TOO miles, and when the news reached us that General Johnston was ordered to send the 6th infantry to Walla- Walla, we presumed that thai, regiment would not take a longer route than this old well-known road, yet it appears it took the long difficult Carson river road to Benicia, a distance of 950 miles ; and after its arrival at the latter place it will be 1,185 miles from Walla- Walla, where it was intended it should serve, and from which it was not half so far before commencing its march as now. ^::i f5>sR5rs™'T'T";"^ i!' 100 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. From and after next February, passengerfl and freij^ht can be transported by steam vessels through to Old Fort Walla-Walla ; and it ia quite probable that the Columbia will be found navigable to Priest's Rapids, and the Snake branch further than known at j)re8ent. These form important matters ior consideration by the general com- manding, and also deeply concern the quartermaster's department in the establishment of new posts further in the interior. 1 am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, RUFUS 1NGALL8, Captain, Acting Quartermaster Oeneral, Captain Alfred Pleasonton, 2d Dragoons, U. S. A., Ad. Asst. Adjt. Gen., present. 10 6. Fort Dalles, 0. T., December 27, 1857. Captain : ♦ * " In my opinion there are several routes to be found from Snake river, that is, from Fort Boisee to the waters of Humboldt." Ist. A little below Fort Boiseo "up" Owyhee river, which is the nearest route to Salt lake ** by the Grand Rond." I recollect very dis- tinctly there is north of "Stony Point" a lake of large dimensions, say twenty miles in circumference, where a thieving tribe of Indians are encamped. They have fine horses, the finest I had seen amongst any Indian tribes, and horned cattle ; distance from Stony Point about twenty miles on open plain, fine camping in the mountains in the spring, and but eight miles distant from Humboldt ; besides that, I found some gold there, which nobody knows but me, and which led me to explore that country. I took the first road across the mountain ridge, leaving Humboldt on account of high water and scarcity of grass, in 1852, as near as I can possibly recollect. I have seen a little stream running north, which must have been the head of Owyhee river. 2d. Up a creek above the place called Fishing or Salmon falls, from which place, or in close proximity, the Indians get their salmon and bring them to Thousand Spring- illey. This little creek heads in tlie same range as the west branch of Humboldt and a little creek (Three Mile creek) of the Humboldt. .Sd. Up to Thousand Spring valley, which I believe is the best, and I myself would prefer. 4th. Up Goose creek, which may prove very hilly. 5th. Down Deep creek, which creek we crossed eight miles from Hansel springs, emptying into a lake, distant from lake to the place where I burned the coal pit at Cedar springs twenty-five miles, and from where I brought the deserted teamster back. 6th. Up Raft river ; after reflection, however, I pronounce this the AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 101 best in point of feed and eauy road, which can be found, are up Mahul and Bear rivers. These routes all run pe The others ip lYlttllUl niiu iJcni iivora. xueou iiiubca an luu parallel with each other, only twenty to fifty miles distant from each. A true copy and correct map from Fort Dalles to Fort Boisoo, (the mentioned route,) aud which can be relied on, is in possession of Major Httller, who informed me of it nearly two years ago ; he travelled it himself. From this map ('Ma_jor Haller's) there can be good and true copies made, which would give me better insight into the distances between Snake river and the headwaters of Humboldt or Thousand Spring valley. Respectfully, &c., L. SCHOLL. Captain R. Inoallb, United States Army, Vancouver, W. T. f nounce this the 10 c. Champoeq, 0. T., December 31, 1857. Dear Sib : I received yours of 29th instant, and hasten to answer your questions as you request. In case a column of troops should be sent from Oregon to Utan or Salt lake, the nearest and best route is by the way of Walla- Walla to that place by water from Walla- Walla over the Blue mountains ; by the emigrant route to Fort Boisee, (300 miles ;) up Snake river, by same trail, to Raft river ; thence to Salt lake, about 320 miles, leaving Fort Hall about 70 or 80 miles north. As to the best time for starting from Walla- Walla, very much depends upon the weather, or earliness of the season. The Blue mountains are often impassable until late in spring ; so soon as they can be crossed you can proceed the balance of the way without any more danger of snow ; a train can leave Walla- Walla early, travel on slowly, and, in fact, have good grazing to the foot of the Blue moun- tains, where it will be well to examine and look out for the best wagon road, as the old wagon track can be taken advantage of and shorfcnfd ; don't start to go over the Blue mountains until you are sure you can go through without a stop to fix road. I have no hesi- tation in saying that the above is the best way to get supplies to Salt Lake, such as probably you wish to take, and certainly far the cheapest and quickest ; a move of that kind w'l* bring to a close and make a finale of this Indian war, now so much disturbing the officials of Oregon. I do hope a large column of troops will be sent on this route ; it will be killing two birds with one pebble, and locating a road through a country that will be of vast importance to the citizens of the United States, and great convenience to the army. There is one thing I would suggest, that is, to keep an eye out for the valley of Fort Hall ; six miles above it is a first-rate place for a military post, just in the gap of the country leading to the north, or on to the head of the Missouri ; it is the only fine grass in that •i Ih -&fe' 102 AFFAIRS IN OREOON, I!: valley that is wanted, and Hhould bo Haved from tlio Mormons' fire- brand for varioiiH reuflons. I wish Colonel JohnHton was there now with all hJH stock, as where he is on Green river, or even on Hear river, he must lose his stuck or so impoverish it that it will he useleRg in the sprinj; for service. I have wintorey this com- mand, as heretofore. 1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obed'^ nt m rv..iit \VM. H. HAilNEY, Brtgnnier u'^nc. r, Commanding, Colonel S. Cooper, Adjutant Oeneral, Washington Ci^y. 23 a. Fort Vancouver, W. T., March 18, 1859. Captain : Herewith I enclose to you a copy of a letter, dated the 8tH December, from the quartermaster general to Coionel T. Swords, deputy quartermaster general at San Francisco, and also a copy of a letter to me from the office of Brevet Major Robert Allen, assistant quartermaster, dated the 4th instant. You will perceive that Colonel Swords, under his interpretation of these instructions, first directs " Major R. Allen to transport no more funds of the pay department," and the practice of the office becomes that no more funds "will be forwarded by Major Allen, unless spe- cially sanctioned in each and every case by General Clarke." It is not economical or best for the public service that every time I need funds I must go to San Francisco to get them. If the quarter roaster general implies that his department is never to transjx funds, except when ''if> .'aymaster accompanies them, I do not see] vhat warrant of law o i - iition the''r> Ic for Lhc idea. In the annual ar-.n jTMri-c ;ation bi.i ^see General Orders No. 7,ot June 24, 1858, froui .i.. U. 0.,) there is a paragraph for " thetranspor- 1 tation of funds of the pay and other disbursing departments of the army." There is another and distinct paragraph providing for the I " transportation of officers " travelling on public service. We cannot say how the quartermaster's department shall have the funds traii- ported, whether by express, by special agent, or by the steamer. We cannot say hoto the freight shall be estimated , whether by a j)' ' i enta.-e on the number of dollars, or by bulk or weight ; but in no sense can AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 117 mich i)€raiitftgo or freight be regarded as a discount, as General j^,^ii|) im]iti(.'i4. Uut the customary caru given to such transactions woiiU l>e expected, and that tlie specie should not be treatwl as "ordinrtr) 'i?xht, such «m iron, nails, clothing," &c It will oftt'u happen that the nay departn)ent will nwd funds trancpiiil 1 at timet* tnd places when the authority of the general conirnandiu;; cannot easily bo obtained in each chho. I consider it onerous iin(l inipracticablo that such an order shall be obtained in each I'articiilar caH< . The certificate of the paymaster that the '!er- vice was necessary in the disoliarge of his duties should bo suffltijut. For several years my funds have been forwarded to me from San Francisco by Hrovet Major Allen, assistar' i, quartermaster, ia the most prompt and satisfactory manner. I ask for no change of the long-established regulations and custonis in this business. I only request the rescinding of the inetructioiiH given by Colonel Swords, that the assistant quartermaster iu Sn Francisco " shall transport no more funds of the pay department. I doubt wliether in this he gave a correct interpretation t( the in- structions of General Jesup of the 8th December ; but if he did, those instructions should be rescinded. I have written by this mail to the Payr^fister General on this sub- ject, and I will respectfully request that ; decision may be obtained from the War Department for the governin< nt of all concerned, which will protect the public interest and secure the execution of the law above quoted. I have tlie honor to be, very respectfully, y >ur obedient servant, BENJAMIN ALVOllD, Paymaster f'nited States Army. Captain A. Pleasonton, Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Head^j natters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. ■ 13 n 23 b. Assistant Quartebm ster's Office, San Francisco March i, 1859. * * ♦ ♦ * * Major : I enclose a copy of a letter from General 'esup, on the sub- ject of transporting paymaster's funds. Under the in tructions therein contained, Colonel Swords has ordered us to transpo t no more funds tor the pay department, and in the last two cases Ct lonel Coffee was obliged to get a special order from General Clarke for the immediate service. The question is still open, and Colonel Swords will not approve of any funds being forwarded by Major Allen unless speci illy sanctioned in each and every case by the general. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. L. OGDEN, Clerk, in absence of Br. Major R. Allen, A. Q. M. Major B. Alvoru, Paymaster U. S. A., Fort Vancouver. I, It - i: '■"■-J- W' 1 ^; ll jl 'J 1 I i •* i ^ ] 1 118 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 23 C. [Extract.] Quartermaster General's Office, Washington City, December 2 jo6. Colonel: * * * * ^ I do not exactly understand the question submitted in your letter of the 29th of October in regard to paymasters. If they require trans- portation for themselves and their funds, you are bound to furniBhtbe transportation ; but the paymasters and their sureties are responsible to the treasury for the safety of the funds. And you are not to pav them milage when they go in the same vessel or other conveyance with the funds, nor is any receipt to be given when funds are to oe trans- ported, except for packages, and then only the ordinary freight is to be paid, such as you would be required to pay at the same time on iron, nails, clothing, or other public property. Steamers, I under- stand, charge a percentage for transporting gold or silver. Where that is exacted you will pay it on the funds of the quartermaster's department, but every other branch of the service must pay its own percentage. I am, colonel, most respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS S. JESUP, Quartermaster General. Lt. Col. Thomas Swords, Deputy Quartermaster General, San Francisco, Cal. ■t , t R i» m 24. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, March 19, 1859. General : I have the honor herewith to transmit an extract from the instructions of the War Department, under date of March 15, 1859, to First Lieutenant John Mullan, jun'r, second artillery, charging that officer with the construction of the military road from Fort Walla- Walla to Fort Benton, authorized at the recent session of Congress. The Secretary of War directs that you give such orders as may be necessary to provide the escort and supplies designated for Lieutenant MuUan's operations. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. COOPER, Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, Commanding Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T, AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 119 25. The J'^' .-., ^J^eneral to General Harney. Officf, emher S jo6. in your letter of 3y require trans- jnd to furnish the 38 are responsible ou are not to pay r conveyance with 8 are to oe trans- inary freight is to the same time oq teamers, I under- >r silver. Where > quartermaster's must pay its own rvant, 5 S. JESUP, master General. Gal irney. Office, March 19, 1859. It an extract from ite of March 15, second artillery, lilitary road from recent session of J orders as may be led for Lieutenant rvant, COOPER, jutant General. iver^ W. T, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, March 30, 1859. General : Your letter of November 29, 1858, to the assistant adjutant general at the headquarters of the army, enclosing a report from Cap- tain Ingalls, assistant quartermaster, in regard to supplying the de- partment of Utah via Fort Vancouver, and presenting your own views upon the subject, has been forwarded to this oflSce, and laid before the Secretary of War, who has returned it with the following indorse- ment : " War Department, March 26, 1859. " I have examined with care the letter of Brigadier General Harney and accompanying papers, upon the establishment of depots and large garrisons in Oregon or Washington Territory, for the purpose of sup- plying the troops in Utah and controlling the Mormons. " The conclusion that, from these garrisons and depots, troops and supplies can be, at any season of the year, thrown into the Mormon settlements at Great Salt Lake in six weeks time, does not appear to me to rest upon information of such exact and positive character as to justify the department in basing military operations upon it, particu- larly as the information heretofore collected by the department re- specting the routes between the Columbia river and Great Salt Lake leads to the opposite conclusion. " The occasional movement of pack-trains during winter to trading posts in the interior of that region cannot be considered as conclusive evidence that army wagon trains can move during that season with certainty and regularity from the Columbia river to Great Salt Lake. "The reports of Captain Fremont to Major Cross and others repre- sent the road between the summit of the Blue mountains and the Snake river as exceedingly difficult and bad for wagons, and the road along the south side of the Snake, as far as the valley of that river is followed, is not only difficult, but almost entirely destitute of grass find water, although the route along the north side is represented to be better in the latter respect. " No facts touching the actual passage of the Blue mountains in winter by wagons, or the practicability of thus crossing them, are given in Captain Ingall's report or accompanying letters; on the con- trary, it must be inferred from those letters that the Blue mountains we often impassfible until late in spring. Nor is evidence presented that a supply train or large bodies of troops can cross from the Snake river to the Great Basin near Salt Lake in winter. The facts upon which Captain Ingall's grounds his opinion or statement that these two portions of the route are practicable at all seasons should have been stated. " Although I cannot concur with General Harney in all his conclu- sioDH, yet 1 am impressed with the importance of the subject he has presented, and trust that the examination he has directed to be made i im '4 ii ^ IV \i III ii^i I ■i' 120 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. of the country along the proposed route will establish the entire feasi- bility of the proposed plan of operations. " The Adjutant General will communicate this indorsement to Brig- adier General Harney. "J. B. FLOYD. " Secretary of War." I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. COOPER, Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, U. 8. Army, Comd'g Dept, of Oregon, Fori Vancouver, W. T. 26. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, ■r-Mngton, April 2, 1859. Generai : The Secretary of War dire* tt; that all expenditures on account of the erection of quarters hhci barracks at Fort Dalles, Ore- gon, be suspended until further orders. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. COOPER, Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, 17. S. A., Comd'g Dept. of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. 27. General Harney to the Adjutant General. Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., April 5, 1859. Colonel : I have the honor to transmit the proceedings of a board of oflScers which assembled at Fort Cascades, to determine the validity and assess the claim of Mr. Johnson to the site of Fort Cascades. I approve of the report of the board, and recommend that the military reservation at that point be restricted to the half section of Johnson's claim, as indicated by the board. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Colonel S. Cooper, Adjutant General, Washington City, D. G. i AFFAIBS IN OlEOOK. 121 "i'l •Ml y, your obedient 28. General Hamty to OeMral Soott. Headquarters Dkpartmbst op Orecion, Fort Vancouver, W, Jl, April 6, 1859. Sib : I ^^^^ *^® honor to enclose a copy of a communication from "Spokan Gary," one of the principal chiefs of the 8p«kan Indians, in which he states his people are desirous to be placed upon a reserva- tion where they will neither disturb nor be disturbed by the whites. In justice to these Indians this step should be adopted by our (Tovernment; they already cultivate the soil in part for subsistence, and unless protected in their right to do so, they will be forced into a miserable warfare until they are exterminated. I have received repeated assurances during the past winter from these and other Indians of this department of their earnest and sincere desires to maintain peace with the whites, and be content with whatever measures the government may effect in relation to their country. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. 8. HAKNEY, Brigadier General, Comnanding, Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New Ywh City. P Walla- Walla, W. T., March 28, 1859. Sir : My people are desirous of having peace with the whites. Their wish is to have an Indian agent and soldiers to live in their country to protect them. All the chiefs and all the people are ready and wil- ling to make a treaty with the government for the saleof th'r lands. They are perfectly satisfied with having roads made through their country. For myself, if a " treaty " is made with ns for onr lands, I wish oar reservation to be located where we will not be interrupted by the whites, nor our people have a chance to interrupt the whites. We have so many dishonest men who would steal from the whites, if they were near them, that it would occasion us much trouble. My horses have given out, and it is so late in the spring I will have to return home to attend to my crops, or I would go and see you. If you should visit here this spring the Indian agent will send me word, and I will come down and see you. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yonr most obedient servant, bii SPOKAN -f. GABY, Witness, A. J. Cain, Indian Agent, Washington Territory. Brig. Gen. W. S. Harney, Commanding Department of Oregon and Washington, Fori Vancouver, W. T. - ■ ! 1 '{ 1 m 1 ■ IS Wl ^m n, 1 ■ '■■ ' ^m jj m \ %\ 1 i \e t \n 4 \ '1 i» ' r ^ ' % -1 \ :i l¥ \ f'il \ 1. , '■ ^ i 1 i l^>i ' ^ H '^ Jj ^1 W\ ^. *t 122 I r AFFAIRS m OREGON. 29. General Harney to General, Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., April 16, 1859. Sir : I hare the honor to enclose, for the consideration and decision of the General-in-chief, an application for a court of inquiry, made by Brevet Major F. 0. Wyse, captain 3d artillery, to examine into certain allegations offered against him in a communication of Captain R, Ingalls, assistant quartermaster, a copy of which is enclosed, marked *' G," with the accompanying papers. Also a second letter from Captain Ingalls to these headquarters, marked " H," enclosing copies of extracts of letters from Mr. Lucius H. Allen, formerly an officer of the 2d artillery, and Lieutenant Colonel Swords, deputy quartermaster general. These charges against Major Wyse are of the gravest character and should be investigated. To prove the honesty of the transaction it will be necessary to confront Mr. Bankin with the original voucher now in the Treasury Department ; for there are other facts bearing on the question besides that of the signature, and Mr. Bankin is the important witness as to them. But it is doubtful whether Mr. Rankin, being a citizen, will appear ; he cannot be compelled to do so ; and the merits of the case, so far as they rest with him, have made me reluctant to order a court of inquiry which could not result to the advantage of the service, I would respectfully recommend that Major Wyse be brought before a general court-martial, under the 39th article of war, for misapplying the public funds sent to him to pay the outstanding debts at his post, as per list of Lieutenant Bansom, by Ufing it in the purchase of this barley on his own authority in San Francisco, and thus deprivng other persons who had just claims of the money intrusted to his care to pay them. I have already directed nine hundred and seventy dollars of these debts to be paid, having been satisfied of their correctness in each case, the parties having been kept out of their mouey by the conduct of Major Wyse over a year, and in one instance twenty months, In consequence of the absence of a number of officers of rank from this department, a general court-martial for the trial of Major Wyse cannot be convened at this time without manifest injury to the service, I would therefore advise, should a court be ordered, that some of the members of the detail be taken from the department of California. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding, Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York City. U- AFFA1B8 nr OBEOON. 123 29 a. PoEltAND, January 31, 1859. Dear Sir : As agent for the Union Transportation Line, I am in noggeasion of a United States voucher, for services rendered by the said tine for the sam of one hundred and sixty-two dollars, certified to by Major Wyse. The serviceg were rendered while the major was in command at Fort Cascades, and for the quartermaster's department there at that time. , V I desire to know how to proceed to receive payment for this voucher. I herewith enclose the voucher to you, and any information you can give me in reference to its collection will be thankfully received by Yours, respectfully, J. L. RUCKELL, Agtnt Union J^ansportation Line, Csptain B. Iroalu, AaaiatatU Quartermaaterf Fort Vaneouv^f W. T. It of California. • 29 a. (Eoeloran.) The Untied Statu to the Union Trantportation Line, Dr. 1857. For the following transportation between September 1 and December 31, 1857 : From Portland to Cascades— 2| tons freight, at |8 $22 00 6,000 feet lumber, at $16 96 00 Fonr privates, Vancouver to Cascades and back 20 00 Oak Point to Portland 3,000 feet lumber, |8 24 00 161 00 I certify that the above is correct, and that the transportation has been performed by the Union Transportation Line, as specified, and was DeceEin 2d Dragoona^ Act. Asst. Adjt. Oenercd. Brevet Major F. 0. wyse, Captain M Artillery ^ Fort VanoouveVf W. T. Hf 29 i. Fort Vancouver, W. T., March 10, 1859. Captain : I have just received yours of this date, enclosing a letter from Captain R. Ingalls, assistant quartermaster, of yesterday, con- taining certain allegations against me ; and I have the honor to request the general commanding to grant me a court of inquiry to investigate these allegations. One set of all my vouchers for the expenditure of public funds op ii^ AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 127 P. RANKIN. to tlie 3l8* of December, 1857, is in the Tieasury Department at ^jgjjington, D. C. ; and the other set (retained once) is at one place near Baltimore, Maryland ; and I therefor quest that the meeting of thiM court may be fixed at such a date as .. il give me time to send to Baltimore for these papers, which I will do by the next mail. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. O. WYSE, Colonel and Brevet Major 3c? Artillery. Captain A. Pleasonton, 2d Dragoo^.9, and Act. Aaat. Adjt. Oeneraly rj very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Captain 2d Dragoons, A. A. A, General, Brevet Major F. 0. Wyse, Captain Third Artillery, Fort Vancouver, W. T, 29 i. Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory, April 13, IBiiO. Captain : Yours of this day has been received, and enclosed I send a letter ai)plying for a court of inquiry, with accompanying documents to be laid before the commander-in-chief of the army, which I have tlie honor to rmiuest may be forwarded. I regret extremely to trouble our worthy commander-in-chief with Ills subject, and as the mail for New York will not leave hero for I about ten days, I would be most happy, if the general commanding the department of Oregon could, in the meantime, so reconsider his views of this case as to grant me a court without applying to the [headquarters of the army. It my application for delay has caused " the difficulties attending [the investigation" referred to in your letter of this date, they no llonger exist, for I now feel confident that I can prove by oral testi- Imony that which I wished to prove by my absent vouchers, and therefore entirely withdraw my application for any such delay. 1 have tlie honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. 0. WYSE, Captain and Brevet Major, 3d Artillery. Captain A. Pleasonton, 2(/ Droijoons and A. A, A. General. 29 y. Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory, April 13, 1859 Colon'El: On the 10th of March, 1859, I received a letter from .« icttc iCqitaiu A. rieasonton, acting assistant adji l^^liidi is berowitli enclosed, marked B,) enclosing to mt ICuptain Riifp.s liigallM, assistant quartermaster, dated 9th of H. Ex. Doc. Go 9 (a copy rom March, ; 130 AFFAIRH IN OKEOON. 1859, (a copy of wliich Ih luTt'with oiicloied, niar1<"tl A,) contninin- three Heparato and diHtinct allegatioiiN ngaitiNt mv, all of tli)-in oi tli^ gravi'Ht nature, and one of tlieni virtually an implication of forgtrv The general commanding the department waH 8o convinced ot the BerioUH nature of tliewe cliarges, that voluntarily lie offered me a court of in(juiry, which I applied for on the wame day, (Hee myluttcrot application herewith enclosed, marked C.) Now, I have juHt received a letter from ('aptain A. I'leasontfi acting asHiHtant adjutant general, of this date, (a copy of wliidi i^ herewith enclosed, marked I),) refusing me a court of inqury, and the Raid letter co far from clearing me of ull the three allegatioiin ODiitiiined in Captain IngallH' letter, does not touch the two first at all, and only expresHCH a "doubt" as to whether or no the third and lu.st ^ruve charge can be fully mistained. I tliink the lieutenant general will agree with me that the olijectnf the li2(l article of wiir, in directing a court of inijuiry to be granted on the applic.ition of the accused, was to give said accused a lair ami prompt ooportunity of proving his innocence of the allegafionn put agaiuNt him ; but if I understand rightly Captain I'leaHonton's letter of tluH date, it a])pearH to me that I am reiuHed a court of inquiry because there is perceived to be a "doul)t"aH to whether or no ray accuser can entirely succeed in proving against me the last grave charge, which implies nothing less than forgery. So that, in addition to the first cause for a court of inquiry which came to my notice on the lOth of March, 1859, this letter just received, in virtually informing mei that my commanding general here has " doubts" of niy ew^iVe inno- cence, nuikes the necessity for a court more imperative now than on the I 10th of March, 1859, when the general himself deemed it so necessarn as voluntarily to suggest it to me, and make a solemn promise that upon my application it should be granted. Under these circumstances, I am compelled by a sense of duty not only to myself but to my regiment and the army at large, to avail myself of every legal j)rivilege to refute these allegations. 1 theretbre have the honor, under the authority of the 92d article of war, to request most earnestly that the lieutenant general commanding thel army mny be pleased to grant me a court of inquiry to investigate the! allegations against me contained in Captain Rufus Ingalls's letter ofl the 9th of March, 1859, above referred to, marked A. Should there! be any impediment in the way of the lieutenant general acting in t case I request that my application may be laid before the President of| the United States without unnecessary delay. A copy of the letter to the headcjuarters of the department of Oregon, accomi)ai)ying this apj)lication, is herewith enclosed, marked E. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. 0. WYSE, Colonel and Brevet Major, 'id Artilkry. Lieut. Col. L. Thomas, Assistant Adjutant General, dc. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 131 30. Gtntral Uarnty to General Scoll. in atlditiou to the TTEArQIIARTKUH PlCl'ARTMENT oF OllKflON, Fort yanconvfr, W. T,, April 111, 1850. Siw: I 1'"^*' *''*' liotior to report, for the inlorniation of tho genoral- |iM-chii.'t iiii'l tilt' War J)t'j)artrneiit, tliat in niakipj; the ijit^t'HHary f„„|,i.jiii.nt8 ior an incriUKcd escort to the northwiHt boundary sur- vtv iisrt'(|tK'«ted hy the coinmiHHioner, 1 have deerneil it advatitajj^eous otlK'servico to withdraw the j^arriHoii trdin Fort Kinicoe, the neees«ity I,,, its iircsenceat that point being removed by the troops posted in its |ti;,iit oil duty with the survey. This mhittioii will inuterially decreaso the exjK'nHe, for the main- Itdiancoota garrison at Fort ISinicoe has been and will always be at a IliMivv cost. Ik'sides, there is no service it could perform that cannot Ibedone liy a ccmniand from this place equally well and with more tconiitiiy. To K!cure the position in the event of its being wanted hereafter as |«iiiilitHry station for any contingency, 1 made offer of the use of the ll)iiil(lin>,'8 to the superintendent of Indian affairs for Washingiori and )ie'ou, with the condition they would be reiinciuished if neoded tor Itlit "troops. This offer has been accented, and an agency will be tstabllHlieil at that point under the condition imposed. iSrieciul OkUth Mos. '6b and 3C from these headtjuarters, copies of Ivliich have been forwarded to your office, will expbiiu more iuily the ditails of the above arrangements. I tiust thetie measures will meet the views of the general-iu-chief ami tho War Dei>artment. I urn, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of (he Army, New York City. 11? ,1 ■*] i: ■ K 41 i »d t«WS '^' 'i\-\\ H' 31. General Harney to General Scott. H ^neral acting iu tlm| Fore the President ( Deadquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, fV.T., April 21, 1859. Sir: Since my communication of the IGtli instant, enclosing an ipplication for a court of inquiry from Brevet Major F. O. Wyse, Wlitaiii 8d artillery, 1 have received a series of charges and specitica- ii lis preferred against Major Wyse by Captain R. Ingalls, assistant [jimrtermaster, which I have the honor to submit, in connexion with Ihiiiiiitter contained in my communication of the 16th instant, for tho ^onMileriition and action of the general-in-chief. lam, sir, very lesiiectfully, your obedient, servant, WM S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Comrr^anding . Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, Neio York City. 132 AFFAIRS IN OREGOJT. 32. General Harney to the AJJutant General. He^^dquarters Department op Oreoon, Fort Vancouver, W, T,, April 23, 1859. Colonel : I have the honor to enclose a complaint made by Edward D. Warbass, sutler at Fort Bellingham, against First Lieutenant John C. Howard, of the 9th infantry, for the consideration ot the | War Department. Lieutenant Howard is now under sentence of a general court-martial promulgated in General Orders No. 4, from these headquarters, oi' j April 8, 1859. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Colonel S. Cooper, Adjutant General, Washington City, D. C. • i 33. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oreqott, Fort Vancouver, W. T., April 25, 1859, Sir ; I have the honor to report the establishment of a steamboat! line on the Columbia river, from the Dalles to Walla- Walla, a (lis- 1 tance of over one hundred miles. This line furnishes steam transportation over two hundred miles I into the interior from this ])oint, and during the high water i a June I supplies sent by it will be placed on the reserve at Snake river, somel fifty miles beyond Fort Walla- Walla, for the use of the party rnakin"'! the wagon road to Fort Benton. The increased facility of communication thus offered can l)e estil mated by knowing that heretofore it occupied from a week to ten daysl to make the journey to Walla- Walla, which is now done in two days Tlie Columbia will doubtless be navigated much further on as thel advancing interests of civilization to the east shall require it. Tliel valley of the Walla- Walla has already some two thousand industriuiul and thriving settlers in it, so I am credibly informed, with anemigra-f tion steadily increasing this number. I am, sir, very respectfully, vour obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York City. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 133 34. General Harney to Captain Wallen. Headquarters Depautment of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T , April 28, 1859. Captain: The general commanding instructs me to enclose a copy of SiH-cial Orders No. 40 from these headquarters, assigning you to a com- 'iiiuici designed to open a road from the Dalles to the Great Salt Lake valley,coinmunicating also with the road to the western States, thr tiigh tlie South Pass of the Rocky mountains. Xhe portion of the road from the Dalles to the Snake riv^er xomains to be explored; you are therefore directed to ascertain if a Wilson roful cannot be made up the John Day river, and thence over to ttie headwaters of the Malheur, following down tha*- stream to the Snake river. In this investigation, should any other route present artial way, engi- )e iini)0S8ible to cies. They very itions and orders. on, and that un- pediency, which a basis on which case, as well as es of the service, them is, the ex- ice of its officers, lys as the puhlic usual sphere or or generally re- them to specific jts, and 18 every- Thus the ofBcers istantly liable to xtentiion of their apiiropriate duties to other circumstances than immediate connexion with troops. There is nothing in law which confines their duties to the class of persons whom the government commissions or enlists, and interdicts them from those wliom it employs on different conditions. The various offices pertbrmed in army administration may bo and are diiily extended to hired persons in the military service. One officer may he charged with the control and direction of these hired persons ; a (itiartcrmaster performs the duties of his department in connexion ;yi;h ttiem ; a commissary issues provisions to them ; and there is no trround on which it can be contended that a medical officer may not he required to administer to them in his particular branch also. He is DO more exempted by, or under the protection of, law than either of the others. The same law of necessity, or expediency and custom, is not less conclusive with reference to such officers towards another class of per- sons, who, though not em jdoyed by government for its immediate service nor borne on its rolls, are nevertheless recognized by law and usage as forming an element or attachment of every army. Among these are to be included the tiamilies of officers and soldiers, and all persons what- ever coming under the general denomination of retainers, whose pres- ence the government authorizes. These persons, by the articles of war, are n.ade subject to the rules and discipline ot the service ; and both policy and humanity dictate that there should be extended to them, incidentally, such ])rotcction and assistance as are available without a disproportionate inconvenience to the service, and which its discipline and peculiar circumstances put it out of their power to pro- vide for themselves. It becomes, therefore, not merely a matter of private benefit, but of public convenience. In no one particular is this assistance more essential than in the services of the medical dejiartment. So far from assuming that the families of officers and soldiers have no proper connexion with the army, our laws contem- plate exactly the reverse of that i)osition. They recognize them by providing pensions for them under certain circumstances, and under certain conditions allow some of them rations, as in the case of laun- dresses. There is no law of (\)ngre3H which specially makes it the duty of medical officers to render their services to prisoners of war, but it is not to be supposed that many would doubt the legality of an order wliicli required them to do so. This law of custom is distinctly recognized in our enactments ; and there is one which applies it directly to the duties of medical officers. The eighth section of the " act to regulate the medical establishment," approved March 2, 1799, says : " That all the said officers and others shall, as touching their several offices and duties, be liable to the rules and regulations for the government and discipline of the army ; and shall he bound to obey, in conformity with law and the usages and customs of armies, the orders and directions of the chief military offi- cers of the respective arn)ies, and within the respective districts in which they shall respectively serve and be." Tiiis secti )u does not come "within tlie purview" of the act of March 10, 1802, and there- fore is not repealed by that act. It is the only law which alludes to the duties of medical officers, and, certainly, if any were necessary, is I i ;: , \ 1 * I I; I f ; I'l :,;;V 138 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. Hs compreliensive as could be dosirod. It is in fact merely the ex- pression of a principle which applies, of necessity and as a matter of courtic, to every department of the army. 1 have remarked upon this subject somewhat at length, because I have observed, with some surprise, among the papers submitted with your communication the announcement of a theory which places ths right of the government to the time and services of medical officers within very circumscribed limits. Such erroneous doctrines, if they exist in the medical department, cannot be too soon abandoned. There is an allusion in your communication to the repugnance which medical officers feel at the idea of having to administer to the sick families of officers and soldiers as a duty. I regret to hear this, and I am at a loss to understand how this should be u source of vexation more than attendance on the officers and soldiers themselves. The peculiar d.ities of medical men are those which, pLrbaps above all others, should be rendered cheerfully and patiently ; and if tliey are so rendered, there are very few cases in which they will be received offenHively or ungratefully. I have entire confidence that on both sides such will be the rule in the army ; any other would soon put it on p very inharmonious footing. Although this is a subject which materially concerns the interest of the service I refrain from publishing this decision in general orders; but I desire you to furnish a copy of this communication at least to each of the signers of the memorial which you have presented. Very respectfully, vour obedient servant, JOHN B. FLOYD, Secretary of War. Brevet Brig. Gen. Thomas Lawson, Surgeon General of the U. S. Army. 38. The Adjufant General to General Harney. i i Adjutant General's Office, Washington, May 13, 1859. General: Your letter of March 1, 1859, trannmitting charges and specifications against First Lieutenant Hugh B. Fleming, 9th infantry, has been laid before the Secretary of War, and I now have the honor to enclose a copy of Special Order No. 85, of this date, appoiniinga court-martial for the trial of that officer. The judge advocate of the army suggests a slight change in the charges exhibited by you as indicated in the accompanying draft. I also transmit the original record of the proceedings of the general court-martial, commenced at Fort Walla-Walla in the month of Feb- ruary last, for the trial of Lieutenant Fleming, and before which he made use of the contemptuouo and disrespectful language towards his AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 13t) commanding ofHcer embraced in the accusations at this time presented (igainst liini. '^I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. A. NICHOLS, Asiiit. Adjt. General. Brig. Gen. W, S. Harney, U. S. A., Commanding Department of Oregon^ Fort Vancouver^ W T. 39. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W 2\, May 21, 1859. '~'{: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general- in-L let', my decision to place an officer of rank and experience in coin- maml at Fort Walla-Walla, in consequence of the important interests Jependiiig upon that position at this time, and will do so tor the next year or more. Besides the escort and civil parties of the northwest boundary commission, who receive their supplies from Walla- Walla, the wagon-road expedition, under Lieutenant Mullan, of the artillery, will also be dependant on this post ; and the large number of emi- crrants moving to that section of the country require some one of the requisite authority and experience to impose the proper course to be pursued by all parties having interests and duties in the Walla- Walla valley. Tiiese requirements establish Fort Walla- Walla as the most import- ant post in this department. I have, therefore, named Colonel George Wright, of the 9th infantry, whose rank is second in the department, to the command of this place ; which selection is the most advisable, since the troops have been withdrawn from Fort Simcoe, and the ne- cessities of the service do not require more than one company of infantry at Fort Dalles. The Reverend Father De Smet, has just arrived from the Coeur d'Aliine country. A number of chiefs of the ditierent tribes whom he has visited have accompanied him, also the noted chieftains Kamiakia and Scliloom, the leaders of the late war. These two latter have been induced to offer themselves to my disposition. A special report will be submitted on this subject. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. «. HARNEY, Brigadier General Commanding. 39 o. U. S. Northwest Boundary Commission, Camp Semiahmoo, May 2, 1859. Sir: I have tlie honor to acknowledge the receipt (on the 28th ultiiiui) of your letter of the 14th, enclosing copies of your orders for '5i 1', ■ . a 'I- 1 ■ t ■ 140 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. an increased escort to the 'boundary commission, with a copy of your instructions to the commander of the escort. The arrangements made by you for the protection of our surveying parties are most satisfactory, and will, I have no doubt, fully moot all the requirements of the commission in the prosecution of the work. I beg to return you my sincere thanks for the readiness with which you have complied with rny request for additional force, as well as lor the kind interest you have manitiested in the advancement of the survey. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant ARCHIBALD CAMPBELL, Commissioner of Northivest Boundarii Survey. Brifijadier General W. S. Hauney, U. S. Army, Com'g Department 0/ Oregon, Fort Vancouver. r i a : i. 1'1 ^W 40. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Ore(5on, Fort Vancouver, W. 7'., June 1, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general- in-chief, the arrival at this place, on the 28th ultimo, of a deputation of Indian chiefs, from the\ipper Pend d'Oreilles, lower Pendd'Oieilles, Flatheads, Spokanes, Colville, and Coeur d'Alene Indians, on a visit, suggested by myself, through the kind offices of the Reverend Father De ISmet, who has been with these tribes the past winter, and has counselled them, both as an agent of the government and in his clerical capacity, as to the advantages accruing to thern by preserving peaceable and friendly relations with the whites at all times. These chiefs have all declared to me the friendly desires which now animate them towards our people, and they assure me that their own f'Cveral tribes are all anxiously awaiting their return to confirm the peace and good will they are hereafter determined to preserve and maintain. Two of these chiefs — one of the upper Pend d'Oreilles, and the other of the Flatheads — report that the ])roude8t boast of their respective tribes is the fact that no white man's blood has ever been shed by any one of either nation. This statement is substantiated by Father De Smet. The chiefs of the other tribes mentioned state their people now regret they had been so deceived and deluded as to go to war with the whites the past year. They tender the most earnest assurances that such will never be the case again. All of these chiefs assert there will be no difficulty for the future as regards the whites travelling through their country, or in the occu[)ation of it. They request the government to secure a reservation to their people, upon which they desire to live and be protected. Karniakin, the noted chief of the Yakimas, came in with these chiefs as far as Fort Walla-Walla, with the intention of surrendering himself to my custody, but in consequence of an officious interference witl;i these Indians on the part of Mr. John Owen, Indian agent for %■■ ■> '. 1 I '^-^' AFFAIRS IN OREOOX. 141 ancouver. tlie Fliithcads, Karaiakin became alarmed and returned to his people. Jfo censure is to be attached to Kaniiakin for this act, and 1 bavo caused him to be notified tbat I am satisfied witb bis present peaceful intentions. I enclose copien of my correspondence with Mr. Jobn Owen, showing tbe course I pursued witb bim. I litive ■ '■ ■ the honor to enclose a copy of Fatber De Sraet's report as to tlie Indian tribes he bas visited the past winter, whicb sbowH that peace exists among themselves as well as with the whites, and from my own observation I am convinced tbat, witb proper care, another Indian war of any magnitude cannot soon occur in this de- partment. It gives rac pleasure to commend to tbe general-in-c]\ief tbe able and etficient services tbe Reverend Fatber De Smet bas rendered. I am, sir, very respectl'ully, your obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York City. t 40 o. Fort Vancouver, May 25, 1859. Dear Captain : Towards tbe end of last Marcb, owing to tbe deep snows and the impracticableness of tbe mountain passes, I received vonr kind favor of tbe Ist of January of tbe present year. I am iiappy that my request to tbe general, concerning the bringing down to Vancouver a deputation of tbe various cbiefs of tbe upper tribes, met with his approval. I have no doubt, from tbe happy dispositions in which I left them at Walla- Walla, tbe general's advice and counsel will be cberfully and punctually followed out by them, and will ])rove highly beneficial to their respective tribes, and consolidate tbe peace established last fall by Colonel Wrigbt. Dining my stay among tbe Rocky mountain In-lians, in tbe long and dreary winter, from tbe 2l8t of November las until tbe end of April, I have carried out, as far as lay in my power, tbe instructions of the general. I succeeded, I think, in removing many doubts and prejudices against the intentions of government, and against the wbitea generally, whicb were still lurking in tbe minds of a great number of the most influential Indians, I held frequent conversations with tbe chieftains of the Cuiur d' Alones, tbe Spokanes, several of the Sbuyel- pees or Kettlefalls, and lower Kalispels, wbo bad chiefly aided, par- ticularly the two tirst-mentiokied tribes, in their lawless and savage attack on Colonel Steptoe and in tbeir war witb Colonel Wright. Tiiese various tribes, witb the exception perhaps of a small portion of lawless Kettlefalls Indians, are \\ell disposed, and will faithfully adhere to tbe conditions prescribed by Colonel Wright, and to any future requests and proposals of treaties coming from government. The un[)er Pend d'OreillcH, tbe Koetinays and Flatbeads, I found, as ^ a|*« »f i W^ i 1 #: 1 ^^i^ 1 M\ '' ^ . MJ :-j} 111 142 AFFAIKS IN OREGON !i^ years asjjo, strong friinds iiiul rtdliercntH to tlio whites, and I liave every rea8on to think that they will remain iuithl'ul ; they ever j,'I()ry, nnd truly, that not a drop of white man's hlood has over heen Hpiljcd by any one of tlitir respective trihes. When 1 j)ropoHed to thetn that from each tribe a cliief Nhoiild accompany me down to Fort Vancouver to pay their respects to the general and to listen to his advice, all eagerly consented, and they kei)t in readinet^s for the h>ng journey ag soon as the snow wcmld have snfticiently disappeared. Meanwhile Major Owen, agent among the Flatheads, arrived at St. Ignatius' Mis- sion, and made known to me that he had received orders from the super- intendent of Indian affiiirs and from Commissioner Mot to bringdown to Stileni a chief of each tribe of the upper country. Upon this decla- ration 1 persuaded the Indians that as Major Owen had received orders from the highest, authority he superseded me, and they shoidd lonk U])on him as their leader in tliis expedition, whilst I would follow on with tliern as far as practicable and I would be allowed. The major having brought no provisions for them, I lodged the chiefs in my own tent, and provided them with all the necessary supplies Irom the IGth of April until the 13th instant, the day on which we reached Walla- Walla, and where the chiefs were liberally provided for by Captain Dent, in command of the fort. The deputation of chiefs was stopped at Walla- Walla by Major Owen, to await an express he had sent on from the Spokane prairie, with instructions to the superintendent at Salem. My own instructions from the general, according to your letter of the 1st of January, " to return to Fort Vancouver as early in the spring as practicable, for some contingency might arise requirii;' the general's presence elsewhere," hurried me down in compliance with said order. With regard to Kamiakin and his brother, Schloorn, I held several talks with them in February, March, and April, and acquainted them with the general's order, wish, and desire, in their regard, videlicet, of following me, and of their surrendering into his hands, assuring them, in the general's own words, that "the govern- ment is always generous to a fallen foe, though it is at the same time determined to protect its citizens in every part of its territory," &c. They invariably listened with attention and respect. Kamiakin made an open avowal of all he had done in his wars against the government of the country, particularly in the attack on Colonel Steptoe, and in the war with Colonel Wright. Kamiakin stated that he strongly advised his people to the contrary, but was at last drawn into the con- test by the most opprobrious language the deceitful Telgawax upbraided him with in full council, in presence of the various chiefs of the Coeur d'Alenes, Spokanes, and Pelouses. Kamiakin repeatedly declared to me, and with the greatest apparent earnestness, that he never was a murderer, and, whenever he could, he restrained his people against all violent attacks on whites passing through the country. On my way down to Vancouver, from Sf. Ignatius' Mission, I met him again, near Thompson's prairie, on Clark's fork. Kamiakin declared he would go down and follow me if he had a horse to ride, his own not being in a condition to undertake a long journey. I had none to lend him at that moment. At my arrival in the Spokane prairie, meeting with AFFAIRS IN OllEGON. 143 (Jerry, one of the Spokane cliiefH, I a(;((iuiintcMl liirn with the circnm- •itiuiir, arul entreated him, for the Huke of Kiinjiakin and IiIh poor i'liililrt'ii, to Hend him a horwe and an invitation to coine )n and to ,j^,pii,ipany the other chiefs to WaUa-VVaihi, and hetic(! to Vancouver; till' bi'Ht opportunity for him to prenent himself hefore the f?eneral and tlionipt'iintendent, and to exp(.8e his case to them and ohlain rest and iicace. Gerry complied with my requeHt, and Kaniiakin Hoon preHented liiiiiselt' and joined the other chiefs. 1 had daily converHations with Iiim until we reached Walla- Walla. Ife j)lace8 implicit confidence in (ho ('cnorosity of the j.^eneral. I helieve him Hincere in his repeated (lecliiriitionH that henceforth nothing shall ever he ahle to witlidraw liiiu njiiiin from the path of peace; or, in his own words, "to unhury (ind raise the tomahawk against the whites." My candid impression is, sliould Kamiakin ho allowed to return soon, pardoned and free, to his country, it will have the happiest and most salutary effect among the upper Indian iribes, and facilitate greatly all future transactions (inil views of government in their regard. The Indians are anxiouslv awaiting the result ; I pray thai, it may terminate favorably with Kamiakin. The sight of Kamiakin's children, the poverty and misery in wliich I found them plunged, drew abundant tears from my eyes. Karaiakin, the once powerful chieftain, who posscMsed thousands of hoises and a large number of cattle — ho has lost ail, and is now re- duced to the most abject poverty. His brother, Schloom, if ho lives, will come in in the course of the summer. I left him on Clark's fork, sickly and almost blind ; he could only travel by small journeys. Tel- <;awax,a Pelouse, I think, is among the IJufFalo Nez Forces ; from all i can learn he has been the prime mover in all the late wars against Colonel Steptoe and Colonel Wright. His influence is not great, but he remains unceasing in his endeavors to create bitter feelings against the whites whenever he can meet with an opportunity. With the highest consideration of resfiectand esteem for our worthy general and his assistant adjutant general, I remain, dear captain, vour humble and obedient servant, P. J. DE SMET, 6\ J., Chaplain U. S. A. A. Pleasonton, Captain 2d dragoons, A. A. Adjutant General. 40 h. Nl lim again, near Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouvr, \V. T., May 28, 1859. Sir: Brigadier General Harney desires to know by what authority you have taken charge of the Indian chiefs who were sent for by him through the services of the Reverend Father De Smet? An early answer i.s requested to this communication, to enable the general to IS r 1 sm r.,! .3 ' 144 AFFAIRS IN OREGON roniove tlie doubt nnd cont'uHion at present existing in the minds of thcHu IiidiuiiH, arJNiii^ (Votn your unexplained conduct. I ttui, hir, very reHpectt'uUy, your (d)edient servant, A. FLKASONTON, Captain 2d draqoons^ An8i. Ailjt, General. JoUN Owen, Sub-Indian Ayent, Fort Vancouver, \V. T. 40 c. Fort Vancouver, W. T., May 28, 1859. Cattain: Your letter of this date is received, and I am somewhat startled and surprist d at its sinj^ular manner. While I do not, by any means, intend to acknowledge the right of General Harney to interro- gate me in the style he has in tlie letter referred to, I will still take pleasure to inform him that I have acted, and stiil am acting, under the instructions and orders of the Indian department, of which I am an agent. My notions have met with the expressed approbation of the late superintendent. Colonel J. W. Nesmith. I hold documents in my possession that show my authority. 1 regret exceedingly if any act of mine lias produced doubt and con- fusion in the minds of the Indian chiefs who are here with me. I have not sought to engender it, but have desired simply to })erform mv duty. 1 would be pleased to have an interview with the general when it may be convenient. It is jmssible I may be able to explain my con- duct 80 as to meet even bis approbation. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, JOWN OWEN, Special Agent Flathead Nation, W, T. 40 d. Headquarters Department of Oreuon, Fort Vancouver, W. T,, May 28, 1859. Sir : Brigadier General Harney instructs me to acknowledge the receijjt of your communication of this date, and, in reply, to state it is not a satisfactory answer to his question of this morning. The general further directs you will not, in any way, interfere with the Indian chiefs now at this post so long as tney are under his charge. I am, sir^ very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEA8ANT0N, Captain 2d Dragoons, Asst Adj't Geniral. John Owen, E.^q., Special Agent, dx., Flathead Nation, Fort Vancouver, W. T. AFFAlllS IN OUEOON. 146 40 c. HsADQUARTRns Dkpartmknt OP Oreoon, Fort Vancouver, \V. T., June 1, 1859. My Dkau Fathkh: Tlio general comninnding instructH ino to oncloHe ftcopvot liiH Special Orders No. 59, of this (lute, authorizing you to return to Kt. Louis tlirough the difterent tribes of tho interior, which von Bre HO desirous to visit once again, for the purpose of confirming them in their good disposition towardfl the whites, as well as to renew their zeal and intelligence in the elements of Christianity, tho uieanH so gii'tmily productive of good-will and confidence in your labors of ihepast winter re(|uiring such self-denial and resolution. On voiir arrival in St. Louis the general desires you to report by letter to the AS'. J., Chajilain, (tc, Fort Vancouver, W. T. m H. Ex. Doc. G5- ■10 146 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. H if' |:1^^]|f 41. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., June 3, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to enclose, for the information of the general- in-chiof, an interesting report from the Rev, P. J. Dc Sraet, describincr the countrj' of upper Washington Territory, in tlie vicinity of the Eocky mountains, now occupied by various Indian tribes. This report is valuable from the rare advantages Father De Sme* possessed for many years, in his position as missionary amori"' those tribes, to obtain accurate information of the country ; and his great purity of character will always give respect and importance to his statements. The description he gives of the upper Clark's fork, the St. Marv's or Bitter Root valley, the valley of Hell's Gate fork, the upper vallevs on the headwaters of Beaver river, and the Koetinay country, in con- nexion with his suggestion of collecting the remnants of tiie Indian tribes in Oregon and Washington Territories in that region upon a suitable reservation, is well worthy of the serious consideration of the government. The country spoken of will not be occupied by the whites for at least twenty years ; it is difficult of access, and does not offer the same induce- ments to the settler that are everywhere presented to him on the coast, The sybtem adopted in California of placing large numbers of In- dians upon a single reservation, and causing them to adopt summarily tl.j habits of life of the whites, failed in consequence of the abrupt transition brought to bear upon these simple and suspicious people, The plan proposed by Father De Smet is not open to this objection ; it places the Indians in a country abounding in game and fish, with sufficient arable land to encourage them in its gradual cultivation, and by the aid of the missionaries at present with them, that confidence and influence will be established over their minds, by degrees, as will induce them to submit to the restraints of civilization when the inev- itable decrees of time cause it to pass over them. From what I have observed of the Indian affairs of this department, the missionaries among them possess a power of the greatest e st^ quence in their proper government, and one which cannot be acquired by any other influence. They control tlie Indian by training his superstitions and fears to revere the religion they possess, by associatin" the benefits they confer with the guardianship and protection of the Great Sfiirit of the whites. The history of tlie Indian race on this continent has shown that the missionary succeeded where the soldier and civilian have failed ; it would be well for us to profit by tlie lessons its experience teaches in an instance which offers so many advantages to the white as well as the red man, and adopt the wise and liumaiio suggestion of Father De Smet. 1 am, sir^ very rcopectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commauding. Assistant Ad.iltant General, Headquarters of the Arnii/, Neio York City. AFFAIRS IN OREO ON". 147 OF Oregon, ,, June 3, 1859. ion of the general- 13 Sraet, describir,!^ lie vicinity of the tribes, i Father De Smet nary among those ry ; and his great importance to his ; whites for at least er the same induce- him on the coast, ge numbers of In- to adopt snramarily ;nce of the abrupt suspicious people. this objection ; it me and fi.sh, with idual cultivation; ra, that confidence by degrees, as will on when the inev- f this department, lie greatest c nse- :!annot be acquired n by training his R'Hs, by as.socialing protection of the liau race on this where the soldier I'ofit by the lessons many advantage^ \vl.se and liuniuno t, HARNEY, I, Commandkfj. 41 a. Fort Vancouver, W. T., 3Iay 28, 1859. 1)r.\r Captain : In compliance with the request of our worthy brig- adier general, I herewith give you a short narrative of the upper Washington Territory, as yet occupied by various Indian tribes, as far as niv views and observations may have extended during the several veans' residence in that region, and particularly during the last winter trip I ])erformed under the 8[)ecial directions of the general. The distance from Fort Walla- Walla to the great Spokane prairie, throui'li which the Spokane river flows, is about 150 miles. This whole region is undulating and hilly, and though generally of a light soil, it 'is covered with a rich and nutritious grass, forming grazing fields, where thousands of cattle may be easily raised. It is almost destitute of timber until you are within ^0 miles of the Spokane prairie, where vou find open woods and clusters of trees scattered far and wide ; this jiortion, particularly, contains a great number of lakes or ponds, with ranges of long walls of large basaltic columns and beds of oasalt. The country abounds in nutritious roots, (bitter- root, camash, &c.,) on which t'le Indians principally subsist for a great portion of the vear. The Spokane prairie is about thirty miles from north to south and from east to west, bounded all around by well-wooded hills and moun- tains of easy access. The soil is generally light, though covered with abundance of grass. Along the base of the hills and mounuuns patches of several acres of rich and arable land may be found. . The Spokane ))rairie is claimed by the Cceur d'Alene Indians. Taking the C'anir d'Alene lake as a central point, their country may extend fifty miles to every point of the compass. The lake is a beautiful sheet of clear water, embedded like, between lofty and high mountain bluffs, and shaded with a variety of pines, firs, and cedars ; in its whole circumference, to my knowledge, there is no arable land. The low bottoms in several of its many bays are subject to frequent and long inundations in the spring. The lake is about thirty miles in extent from south to north ; its width throughout is from one to two or three miles. It receives its waters principa'ly from two beautiful rivers — the St. Joseph's and the Ca'ur d'Alene rivers — running parallel from east to west; each -s from sixty to eighty yards broad, with a depth of from twenty to thirty feet. After the spring freshet their currents are smooth and even, and are hardly perceptible tor about thirty miles from their mouths, and until they penetrate in the high mountain region, which si'iiarates their waters irorn those of Clark's fork and of the St. Mary's or Bitter Hoot river. Their respective valleys are from one to three n)iles broad. They are much subject to inundations in the spring. The narrow slri{)H of land which border the two ri\ers are of the richest would. The deep snows in winter, the ice and water, keep these val- leys literally blocked up during several mouths; last winter it con- tinued for about five months. Small lakes, from one to three miles in circuniterenco, are numerous in the two valleys. Camash prairies and other nutritious roots and berries abound in then J vOitjBia 148 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. f i i>. ■ ' ■: ■« ■ '(I { < » ■ i • of pine trees of various kinds; fir trees, cedars, larch and yew trees poplars, &c., are found all along. The mountains bordering the two valleys are generally of an oval shape, and well wooded ; a few only are snow-topped during the greatest portion of the year. AH the rivers and rivulets in the Cceur d'Alene country abound wonderfully in mountain trout and other fish. The forests are well stocked with deer, with black and brown bears, and with a variety of the fur-bearinw animals. The long winters and the deep snows must retard the settle- ment of this country. The Clark's fork, at its crossing below the great Kalispel lake, is about forty miles distant from the Spokane prairie. Clark's fork is one of the principal tributaries of the upper Columbia. From its entrance into the lake to the Niyoutzaraien or Vermillion river, a distance of about seventy mil s, I counted thirty -eight rapids. You meet with a succession of rapids and lalls to its very head before it joins the Coluni- bia ; for a distance of about thirty miles its rapids and falls are insepa- rable. In its whole length Clark's river has tew spots of good and arable soil, with ranges of dense and thick forests. The upper portion of the river and its upper tributaries have a succession of large prairies of light soil filled with water-worn pebbles, indicating bottoms or beds of ancient lakes. All these prairies are covered with a luxuriant and nutritious grays; and owing, probably, to the position of the high mountains by which they are surrounded, they are little or not covered with snow in the winter season. Such are Thompson's nrairie. Horse prairie, Camash prairie, St. Ignatius' prairie, laco pi;M i lathead Lake prairie, with several other minor grazing fields. •• -, id wide apart spots of less or more acres of good arable land are luuml, but too few, indeed, to make it for years to come a tliickly-softled portion far the whites. The country ot the upper Clark's fork, the St. Mary's or Bitter Root valley, the valley of Hell's Gate fork, t)ie upper valleys on the Beaver headwaters, the Kotenay country, within the 4yth degree, and under the jurisdiction of the United States, appear to be laid out and designed by Providence to serve as reserves for the remnants of the various scattered tribes of Oregon and Washington Territory, at least tor some years to come. This region, I should think, might con- tain all the Indians, and afford them the means of subsistence. The rivers could supply them with fish ; the prairies with domestic cattle; deer and elk are still abundant ; the buffalo grounds are not far off; wild edible roots and fruits are plenty ; whilst in each section a suffi- cient portion of arable land might be found and reclaimed for their sustenance. Should all the remnants of Indians be gathered in this upper region, one single military post might suffice to protect them against all encroachments and infringements of evil-disposed whites on Indians, and of Indians on the rights of tlio whites. In the way the reserves are laid out in Oregon and Washington Territory — far and wide apart, surrounded and accessible on all sides by whites — experience teaches that it must lead to the speedy destruction of the poor Indians, Liquor and its concomitants, sickness and vice, will soon uccomplish the work. Providence has intrusted and placed these weak tribes under the AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 149 rch and yew trees bordering thfi two Doded ; a few only 16 year. All the )ound wonderfully well stocked with of the fur-bearinw jt retard the settle- ,t Kalispel lake, is Clark's fork is one From its entrance ■iver, a distance of You meet with a it joins the Coliim- ad falls are insepa- spots of good and The upper portion on of large prairies ng bottoms or beds th a luxuriant and isition of the hisli ittle or not covered ion's nrairie, Horse > pi:ii. ■ I lathead ids. •*" i :d wide . are lound, but too :tled portion for the the St. Mary's or le upper valleys on n the 4yth degree, Ipear to be laid out r the remnants of gton Territory, at think, might con- subsistence. The |th domestic cattle; ds are not lar oil'; oh section a sutli- eclaimed for their 1 this upper region,, I them against all ivhites on Indians, le way the reserves Iry — far and wide ,'hites— experience the poor Indians, [l soon accomplish tribes under the care and protection of a powerful government, whose noble end has always been to protect and advance them. If aided and assisted, in a proper situation, with agricultural implements, with schools, mills, blacksmiths, &c.. I have no doubt but thousands of the aborigines niight be reclaimed, and live to bless thf ir benefactors. In the topo- iiraphioal memoir of Colonel Wright's campaign, recently published, (page 75,) I read to this effect : "The government, in its wisdom and unidence, should make some timely provision for these many Indians by selecting for and placing them upon proper reservations in order that they may not be caused to disappear by the fast approaching waves of civilization and settlement that miist otherwise overtake and eventually destroy them." I have labored for several years among the upper tribes in the capa- city of missionary. My companions have carried on the work to the present time, and will, I hope, continue their labors. The want of adequate means has greatly retarded one of the principal objects we had in view — their civilization. We can all, and do, cheerfully testify to the good dispositions of these upper tribes. Should they be supplied with the necessary implements of agriculture, witli oxen, lie. they would all work, and would soon place themselves above want and in comfortable circumstances. As for schools, all are anxious to have their children taught. These are a few points I desired to be allowed to present to the consideration of the general, if they can in anywise tend to the amelioration of the lot of the Indians. With the highest sentiments of respect and esteem, I remain, cap- tain, your humble and obeditnt servant, P. J. DE SMET, S. J., Chaplain, (tc, United State/i Army. Captain A. Pleasonton, 2c? Dragoons, Acting Assistant Adjutant General. 42. The Adjutant Genera), to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, July 2, 1859. General: Your letter of April 6, 1859, to the assistant adjutant jreneral of the headqunrterB of the army, enclosing a communication from " Spokane Gary," setting forth the desire of the Spokane Indianfl to be jilaced up(m a reservation, has been forwarded to this office and kid betV re the Secretary of War, who has invited the attention of the Secretary of the Interior to the subject presented by you. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. W. 8. Harney, U. S, A., Commanding Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. I Hi t 'ii.i'' 150 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 43. The Adjutant General to General Harney, Adjutant General's *F?rcE, Wusuington, Ju'y 19, 1859. Sir : Sevral petitions, nuraeronsly signed by officers serving in the departments of Oregon and California, Tor a repeal of paragraph two hundred and eight oi" the present regulations, were recently forwarded to this office by Mr. R. W. Heath, sutler at Fort Walla- Walla, Wash- ington Territory, and on receipt were submitted to the Secretary of War, by whom they have been returned with the following endorse- ment, which you are respectfully asked to communicate to Mr. Heath viz : ' " The views and objecta of these papers are not concurred in by the department." I ara, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant General. COMMANDINO OfFICBR, Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. f I .'It I:, 1'': 44. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department op Oregon, F(yrt Vancouver, W. T. Jidy 19, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general- in-chief, my return to this place from an official visit to the posts oa Puget's Sound, made in the United States steamer Massachusetts. Leaving this point on the 28th of June, I was detained three days by the bar of the Columbia river, which was very rough from heavy weather outside, and the Massachusetts, being deeply laden with stores for the troops on the sound, was drawing over seventeen feet of water, too great a draught, in the opinion of the pilot, to be risked often on so dangerous a bar as that of the Columbia. On the 1st of July we passed the bar safely, and in twenty-four hours after entered the Straits of Fiica, between Vancouver's island a'ad the rock-bound coast of Wash- ington Territory. To Fort Steilacoom, at the head of the sound, from the entrance of the Straits of Fuca, occupied some twenty hours, causing us to reach that point about midday on the 3d of July. On the 4th of July 1 inspected the troops and post of i'ort Steihi- coom, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel S. Casey, 9th infantry, and found the discipline, instruction, and economy of the service, in all its branches, highly satisfactory. This post is badly located, being over a mile from the sound, and difficult of access, without any military advantages for protection or defence. In consequence of the immense and impenetrable forests which line its shores, the sound will always be the channel of coairu' AFFAIRS IN OREQON. 161 concurred in by the >m the sound, and nication from point to point, and the positions which command the sound will always remain the military points of protection and defence. From the great width of thfi sound in many parts, suitable locations, combining advantageous sites for batteries, with proper shores for wharves and anchorage, are not often presented. I would, therefore, respectfully suggest that Fort Steilacoom be considered a temporary establishment until a proper site to cover the head of the sound is hereafter named. I conceive Point Defiance, on the east shore of the sound, some sixteen or twenty miles to the north of Fort Steilacoom, as a propei' site for this purpose. This point commands the Round, it bein'^ about half a mile wide to the opposite shore ; the bluff is some eighty feet high, a sufficient back country, with good anchorage and shores for wharfage. A battery of guns in position here would close the head of the sound to the largest fleet. The enclosed map will better explain to the general-in-chief the advantages of this position, and enable him to see how great and urgent are the necsssities pre- sented in the fifteen hundred miles of coast on Puget's Sound requiring each day more imperiously its proper defence. I lelt Fort Steilacoom on the 5th of July, and reached Fort Belling- ham the next day, having passed through the Rosario strait and Bel- lin^ham strait into Bellingham bay. Fort Beilingham is a temporary post, established here several years ago to protect the coal mines at Whatcom from the northern Indians. The commander informed me that these Indians had not appeared m that vicinity for two years, and no danger was now apprehended from them. This command, company •' D," 9th infantry, Captain Pickett, was in good order in all its arrangements. As an evidence of the mildness of the climate in this latitude, Cap- tain Pickett was cutting a second crop of clover, some two feet high, on the 7th of July, and he informed me his garden was then furnish- ing this year's potatoes, of a large size, and green peas. Last year his com[)any sold four huadrcd dollars worth of potatoes alone. This post is within fifteen miles of the forty-nintli parallel of latitude. At Victoria, on Vancouver's island, I observed a tig-tree, in the open air, with fruit half-grown upon it. As I believe Norfolk, Virginia, is the highest latitude on the Atlantic coast where the fig grows in the open air, this fact afiord.« a good comparison of the climate of the two coasts in these respective latitudes. Fort Bellingham has no military advantages whatever, and can but indifferently serve the design for which it was .^ntended. Leaving Beil'ngham on the 7th instant, I arrived at Semiahmoo the same day. The boundary commission were in the field prosecuting their labo'-s, but the huts they have erected for their protection and bureau work are .sini()le, yet well adapted to all their wants. On the 8th of July I lett Semiahmoo, passing into the Gulf of Georgia, and thence into the Straits of Haro to Vancouver's island, arriving at Victoria about midday. Governor Douglas, of British Columbia, received myself and staff with the consideration and respect due to ray rank, and was personally courteous and agreeable in offering civilities and information concern- ing the island. Victoria is situated on a small arm of the sound, into 152 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 1 ti which only moderate-sized vessels can enter ; the harbor is three miles to the north, in the bay of Esquiraault. Great labor is being expended in the building of Victoria, much of which is done by the nortliern Indi MB, who go in there to trade with the Hudson's Bay Conipanv and ,..e hired by the day for a small pittance. They are said to be very warlike, and are a stout, fine-looking set of men, with fairer complexions than the Indiana of the sound within the limits of the United States. Like all Indians, they are fond of whiskey, and can be seen at all hours of the day in the streets of Victoria drinking whenever they can get it, yet they are not permitted to become disorderly. These Indians are more obedient undci' British rule, which appears to be kind, but firm, than their fellow-men with us under any of the systems adopted by our government. The population of British Columbia is largely American and for- eigners ; comparatively few persons from the British isles emigrate to this region. The English canuot colonize successfully so near our people ; they are too exacting. This, with the pressing necessities of our commerce on this coast, will induce them to yield, eventually Vancouver's island to our government. It is as important to the Pa- cific States as Cuba is to those on the Atlantic. I have ordered the company at Fort Bellinghara to be established on San Juan island for the protection of our citizens, and the steamer Massachusetts is directed to rendezvous at that place with a second company to protect our interests in all parts of the sound. In effecting these dispositions it became necessary to withdraw the company from Fort Townsend, which I have done with little reluc- tance, as it was expensive, out of position, and without any military advantages. I visited Fort Townsend on the 10th instant ; the troops were in good order, but the economy of service in building the post appars to have been left unconsidered. Company "I," 4th infantry, Bre- vet Major Q. 0. Haller, in command, Ibrmed the garrison. Arriving at Olympia on the 12th, I crossed over by land to the Columbia river in three days, one of which was spent in descending the Cowlitz river in canoes. I returned to this station on the 15th. Puget's Sound is a most remarkable sheet of water, and is destined to be eminent in the annals of commerce from its great advantages, It is the only shelter for ve sels in distress encountered by a southwest gale on the Pacific. The finest harbors generally liave obstructions at thfir entrance which renders it more dangerous to risk an attempt to enter in times of storm than meet the contending elements of the oceans. It is not so with Puget's Sound ; its entrance is fifteen miles wide and as deep as the sea from shore to shore, yet so sheltered by the high mountains on its islands and shores that its waters are as smooth as those of a river or lake. Its depth of water throughout is most singular ; frequently our ship would anchor within one hundred yards of the shore in fifty fathoms, and many places no anchorage is to be had. The currents are strong and rapid from the tides; at Olympia, the head of the sound, the tide rises from nineteen to twenty- AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 163 bor is three miles 8 being expended by the nortliem 's Bay Conipanv, By are said to be men, with fairer the limits of the !an be seen at all rhenever they can (r. These Indians 8 to be kind, but ) systems adopted to be established 1, and the steamer ace with a second sound. f to withdraw the ^vith little reluc- out any military le troops were in le post appars th infantry, Bre- rrison. !r by land to the t in descending tion on the 15th. and is destined reat advantages. — d by a southwest ave obstructions risk an attempt elements of the e is fifteen miles so sheltered by ts waters are as )r throughout is in one hundred no anchorage is the tides; at leteen to twenty- two feet. The shores of Puget's Sound already furnish luniber and gpars to California, South America, Mexico, and China. In China fuel is a scarce article, and our shipmasters take coal from Bellin^lia'" to China as ballast and disj ose of it at a large profit, bringing back in return Chinese products to this coast. The French navy obtain a large number of spars from this coast, which are shipped round the Horn to France. The English government consider their interests on Puget's Sound so important that they keep three vessels of war constantly on its waters. 1 would respectfully call the attention of our government to the fact that we have neither a ship-of-war on Puget's Sound, or nearer than California, nor is there a gun in this department larger ti.'n a six-pounder. With a sea-coast of greater extent than that of the Atlantic from Maine to Florida, belonging to this command alone ; with a popula- tion depending entirely upon commerce lor their existence — the only routes to the country as yet being by sea — our defenceless position, all impose upon me the duty of urging a speedy action for the establish- ment of permanent works to protect the mouth of the Columbia river, and the various sections of Puget's Sound. In the meantime I feel assured the general-in-chief will use his best efforts to secure for this command, at an early day, a suitable supply of heavv ordnance, with the proper ammunition, that the means of defence may be available in the event of a necessity demanding it. lam, sir, very respcitfuUy, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General^ Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters of the Army, New York City. 45. G enteral Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 20, 1859. Sir : I have the honor to report, for the information of the general- j in-chief, the arrival of Major Lugenbeel's command at its position [neiir Colvillc. on the 15th of June last, in compliance with Special Orders No. HO, from these headquarters, of April 14, 185^. This depot at Colville is located on Morigeau's creek, fourteen miles [from the Hudson's Bay fork in latitude 48° 35' north, two hundred miles froni Fort Walla-Walla, one hundred and sixty inUes from its [depot at Snake river, the terminus of steamboat navigation. The troops expended a good deal of labor on the road from Snake [river to the depot at Colville, and it i^ now reported an excellent road. Major Lugenbeel reports that timber of the very best quality [aliounds ; the grazing excellent ; abundance of good limestone, and [cliiy for brick, within two miles of his position, and plenty of grass "MA f. H . ,5 154 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ' i I . for hay within five miles ; a saw-mill three miles distant, and a gmt Uiill within ten or twelve miles. He further states that, should th( season prove iiavorable, some six thousand bushels of oats can be pui chaeed at reasonable rates. Twenty-five barrels of lime have alreadj been burnt by his command, and a brick-yard is in successful opera, tion. This is the only limestone yet Jound in this country, and it i, very valuable, for at present lime is imported at an expense of bIx dollars per barrel. Colville valley is more than fifty miles in length, and from one to three in width, ruaning northwest and southeast. There are also many side valleys, and the area of good farming land is very large. In conclusion, Major Lugenbeel states Colville valley to be the finest body of land he ha.>f:s : Captain H. M. Judah, Alh Infantry. Captain A. Plkasoxton, 2d Dragoons, A. A. A. G. Brig. (n-n. W. S. Haunky, United States Army. ti - ' i' r* ■-f 160 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 49 b. Headquarters Department op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 23, 1850. Sir : The general commanding instructs you to report the following named privates of your command on furlough until further orders' from the dates opposite their respective names, viz : Private Covey, coujpany "M," 3d artillery, June 11, ]859. Private O'Detle, company "M," 3d artillery, June 17, 1859. Private Gleeson, compauy "D," 3d artillery, June 25, 1859. Private Workman, company **D," 3d artillery, June 17, 1859. Private McDermott, company **M," 3d artillery, July 21, 1859. Private Cassidy, company "B/' 3d artillery, July 23, 1859. Private Tieman, company "A," 3d artillery, July 23, 1859. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, Captain 2d Dragoons , A. A. A. General. COMMANDINO OFFICER, Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory. Wy IK. 49 c. Adjutant's Office, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 23, 1859. PiR : Pursuant to instructions this day received from the headquarters of the department, the commanding officer of thi.s post directs that the following named men, soldiers of your company, be reported on fur- lough until further orders, from the dates opposite their respective names : Private Covey, from June 11, 1859. Private O'Detle, from June 17, 1859. Private McDermott, from July 21, 1859. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY C. HODGES, Ist Lieutenant and Adjutant, 4th Infantry, Post Adjutanf. The Commanding Officer, Cumpany " M," 3rf Artillery, Fort Vancouver, W. T. 49 d. Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory, July 23, 1859. Sir : Your note of the 23d of July, in which the commanding officer directs me to place certain men, soldiers of company " M," 3d regiment AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 161 ourtille'T' ^^ furlough pursuant to instructions received from depart- iieiit lieiulfinarters, was received this morning. In consequence thereof, I have the honor to apply to the coramand- iniT officer for the necessary data to make out their furlough papers, it beiii"' necessary for a soldier thus absent from his company to bo provided with these papers for his own protection. Hoping you will lay this before the commanding officer at your earliest convenience. I am, sir, your obedient servant, H. V. DE HART, 1st Lieutenant 3d Artillery, Gomma,.ding Company M, First Lieutenant Henry C. Hodges, Adjutant 4.th Infantry and Post Adjutant. f '4 lli'l 49 e. Adjutant's Office, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 24, 1859. Sir; Your comm .nication of yesterday has been laid before tlio i;iniimiindiii,^ officer ot this post who decides — "That in the case of tlie soldiers therein referred to a com))liance 'A-itli iiar!ite to tlie p(>Ht adjutant, request- iiii; that tlie oonuiiiuuliiig officer might furnish me at his curliest con- vi'iiicnce with the (hita ni.ce.(/ Artillery, Commanding Company "J/." A. Pleasonton, Captain 2d Dragoons, Ad'y Assist. Ad/'f. (Hen. Enclosed 1 forward you a copy of the order placing those men I'U furlough, my ri'i)ly to it, re([ue.sting (hita to lill their furlough papiis, and the reply of the conjmanding olficer of the post to that re(inef!t. ill. AFFAIRS IN ORKGOX. 163 tructions received 49{/. Hkadquauteus Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 30, 1859. Sir: Tlie general corninanding instructs me to return the enclosed ciimmiinication to Lieutenant De Hart, of the 3d artillery, through the coinmiuider of Fort Vancouver. Ijieutenant De Hart, in transmitting this coniraunication to these liefid iiiiU'ters with his endorsement of the 29th instant, is guilty of the viohUion of the 441st paragraph of the General Regulations, which is rendered the more culpable hy his impertinent and disre- speetfiil letter to his superior officer, the general commanding. Iffnorance and inexperience accompanying modesty are strong pal- liatfvcs in the coraraissioa of error, hut connected with a vain conceit which puts aside in its hlindness the rules and regulations hy which itiiflects to be guided^ serve to niagnily the confusion and offence of the acts coniniitted under their influence, and to render error criminal. The general commanding is pleased to consider the limited service of three years of Lieutenant De Hart, and is indisposed to visit his conduct with the severity it merits. It is hoped, therefore^ this admo- nition will be sufficient warning to him for the future, and that in his zeal to establish for himself a reputation as a good officer he will not cuiumence his career by proving the reverse. The coiiim.uiding officer of Fort Vancouver is directed not to transmit iioreafter to these headquarters any communication that ia not couched in proper and respectful language in respect to manner, and witiioiit strictures or animadversion upon any acts emanating from tliis or higlier authority. A copy of this communication will be furnished Lieutenant De Hart. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASANTON, Captain 2i Dragoons, A. A. Adjt. General. CoMMANDiN'u Officer, Fort Vancouver, W, T. m' pij 49 A. Fort Vancouver, W, T., AiKjtist 4, 1859. S[r: Eir'Ids 'd please find an appeal from me to the heiul(;[uarters of (heiuniy, with other documents appertaining tberutt). I rL([Uest thiit the coininaudiiig oilieer ot tlie post may forward this apiKal witht \w documents, tbruugli the proper channed, to those head- ijiiarters by the first mail. Verv resi)ectt'ullv, your obedient servant, H. V. DE IIAIIT, First Lieutenant 'id ArtUleri/. LifUteiiant Hodoes, AjljidavJ \th Jiifanlii/ ami Post Adjutant. lo4 A \. ill :'^ f I Al FAIRS IN OBF.OOK. 49 t. FoBT Vancodvkr, W. T., August 4, 1859. Colonel : Having made an appeal to the headquarters of thi» de. partment a<;ainat a compliance with a certain order received Iroin the conimaiuling officer of this post, and this appeal having now been twice returned to me i'rom those lieadquarters, the last time accom- panied with a letter to tlie commanding officer of the post, forbiddini» him to again reforward it to the headquarters of the deoartment ot Oregon, making it clearly evident to me that I cannot obtain any action at these headquarters upon my appeal, or any redress for the cause of my complaint, I therefore have the honor to appeal t.i th" headquarters of the army, asking for redress for the cause of my com- })hiint ; stating, in addition to what 1 iiave said in mv appeal, for the information of the lieutenant general commanding the army, that those men mentioned as being placed on furlough were so placed in order thii*- they migiit work us mechanics upon a private I'urni in the vicinity of this post owned by the general commanding this depart- ment. 1 also ask for redress against the letter received from the iioad- quarters of this department, wliich I regard as abusive and tyrnn- nieal ; abusive, as it is insulting to me as an officer and a geritleniau: tyrannical, as it lorbids to an officer the right of appeal against aiiv act whatever which has emanated from the headquarttjrs of iliie de- partment, or any higher authority. In answer to the first part of the letter I have to state tliat mv appeal, so far as 1 was concerned, was forwarded through the proper channel, and not direct to the heathiuarters as it states, ns I gave it mysoli to the commanding officer of the post;, requesting him to for- ward it. 1 enclose for the lull and i)erfect understanding of all the eirc'iai- stances connected with this case, (tor the jierusal of the lieutcniini general coiiinninding tlie army,) the nntnthly return of company M, IjM regiment of artillery, lor June, ISJ'J, marked '> ; that for jiilv, IHo'.i, marked C ; a letter of instructions from the commundingoltiwr of tliL' post, nuirked 1) ; with my letter to the commanding olHcerd! the post, niiU'ked E, my a[)peal to the hea(h[uarters of this depart- meut, niarl .1 F, and the leply of the cotuinandiug officer of thepo^; to my h.'tlfr, marked II ; also the letter received (m the olstol July. fro!i) the liead(iuarters of the army, marked A. These are all the documents that havo been written. Hoping tha: the lieutenant general commatuling may coUKider favoral)ly my apjie;i! for redress, I have the honor to bo, sir, very res[>(jctfully, your obediun; servant, H. Y. DE HART, First lAentenant ?)d ArlUknj. Colonel L. Thomas, Assistant Adjutant Gcnend , lleadiiaartars of the Army. m AFFAIRS IN OREGON, 165 ITKR, W. T., August 4, 1859. uarters of thi» Je- r received Irom the haviut; now been ) last time accom- ;he post, l'orbiddin» the deoartment o! sannot obtain any ,ny redress for the ior to appeal tj tho be cause of my com- [ luv appeal, for the g the army, that were so placed in private farm in the nding this depart- ed from the lioad- abusive and tyr;i,n- er and a gentluniiin; appeal against any ^[iiartcrs of ihie de- to state that ray thruu;j;h the proper states, as 1 gave it luestiug him to fur- of all the circuin- |il of tlie lieiitcnani urn ol' company V,, 'i ; that for July, couiinaudingolticer itiuiiidioi; otlic't.Tii' iters i>r this depart- r oliiccr (if the piM x\ the lilst ol July. Ittt'ii. lIoi)ing tiia: Tavoralily my iipptii! rally, yourobt'dieu; DK HART, kinf od ArlHknj. 4'j ;. IIeadquartkrs Departmknt of Ouegox, Forf Vancouver, W. T., Juynst 4, 1859. (*ot.onel: Tlie general commanding directs me to return to you the tiicddseii papers from Lieutenant De Hart, ^d irtil.ery, which you have forwarded to these headquarters, to be tranmiitted to the head- qiiiuters of the army. One of these ])a{)ers, the commnnication of Lieutenant De Hart, of the 24th of July last, to these hoadiiuarters, has been twice returned as an impertinent and disrespectful letter to the general commanding, and Lieutenant De Hart's conduct in connexion with it lias caused him to be jdaeed in arrest by the general commanding, who has tiled diaries against him to be submitted for the action of the War Deitart- intiit. Under these circumstances, and with the knowledge of the action of the 'general commanding,* upon the communication of Lieutenant De Hart for the commander of Fort Vancouver to again present them in theli'd't of au appeal to the general-in-chief, before na investigation lias been held upon the conduct tor which Lieutenant De Hart haa been placed in arrest, is, in the opinion of the general commanding the department, an encouragement idfered to insubordination and dis- respect by the commanding officer of Fort Vancouver. No conuiuinication will be sent to these headquarters from Lieuten- aut De Hart, unless permisMitui is given, until the decision of the War Ue[iartmeut ia his case in made known. 1 am, colwixd, very respecllully, your obedient servant, A. PLEASONTON, • Copiain '2d dragoons, A. Asst. Adjt General, Lieutenant Colonel Thomp.-'oN Moruis, , 4itli Infantry f Commanding ^ Fort Vancouver, W. I'. 49 k. Adjutant's Ofiic:., Fort Vancouver, W. T., Auyust 5, 1859. Sir: T am directed by the lieuten'nit colonel commanding tliis post . siy that your ai)peal to the hcadquartrrs of the army, with accom- panying di)('.tmients, I'orwarded by him yesterday through department lieadipiiU'ters were returned to him last evening. I a)ii fill tli(r directed by him to say that, f(ir re:"-sons contained in the e'liiniuiiiciti ' of the acting assistant adjutant general returning the papirs, he does not think it ]•■ 'tper for him to forwai ] them to (Jeneral Sent t at this time; and l)y his nrdcr 1 herewith ri'' .i tiiem to you. 1 am, sir, vvry resp.cttuUy, voiir obedient servant., HENUY C. HO l.s/ Lieut. ((• Aifjt. \th hi/anfrt/, P Lieutenant 11. V. De Haht, od Arliilery, Fort Vancouver, IF. T. .',''hUant. If, i:;;?' K t * *■ 1? IGG AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 50. Lieutenant De Hart to General Scott. Fort Vancouver, W. T., AuguHt 5, lFi59, Colonel; ITdvin^ yesterday foiwartled an appeal to the head- quarters of the army throijo'h th',^ commanding officer of this post und lie having forwarded il to tdw h( ad(|iiarters of tliis department for transmittal, from Avli^nce it has l)Lta returned to him, and f rom liinj to me, I now have llie honor to fbrwa'd it myself, with tl)e accom- panying documents, dirpcl to the head.nr, i t'^rs of the army, this beini' my last reson'oe and :'nly nvins '.( gcir.''-^ it to those headquarters! Togetlier v. ;t)i the otlier pajici's aln u(iy mentioned in my appeal to you, y 'U will /!,\d a co, y of the letter from the adjutant's office at this post, returnin;]; my appeal to me. I hiivv' the honor to be, sir, very respeotrr.lly, vour obedient servant H. V. DE IIAUT, First Lieutenant Third Infantry. Colonel TiioMA.^,: Asuintau' AJjutant Gene:\'i . U. S, A. P. S. — 1 also send a copy of the letter sent to the commanding offi- cer of the post, wiHi my appeal returned, furnished me by ColonelT. Morris, fourth infantry. 51. Ceneral Harney to General Scott. Headquarters Department of Oin-oox, Fort Vancouver, IF. T., Aufjust o, 1859. Colonel: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of General Orders Ko. ]3 of this year irom the War Dei)artment, and, in obe- dience to the requirements of paragraph Ki, re /.'.nents are io, ■ ••':i cause niueli iri..!j; its eliicici:';. l»e reduced withnU! 1, 1 earnestly ric ni- mond to the favorable consideration of the War Department the ne- cewitii's of the huiUings I have ordered. In consequencf of the remoteness of this command and the lapse ot iiue required tc communicate with the department, in connexion with iiniieiious req" irementa tor these buildings, I shall continue their con- Ii possessions, and one hundred men Avith three officers are with the t'xpedition constructing a wagon road from Fort Walla- Walla to Fort Beuton. These are national works of the first importance, but the expenses attending their prosecution are very heavy, and, although a very great portion of these expenses are borne by the military bureau of this de- iKirtiuent, they are not incident to the ordinary requirements of the arruv, and should not appear as belonging to the proper maintenance uf this coiuMiand. j will mention one item in illustration. Tiie transportation for the troops with the northwest boundary commission, from the nature of the country, can only be furnished hy pack-mules, and, from the want of anv subsistence on the route of the 4'Jth parallel, forage for each animal has to he transported along the route, which is exceedingly mountainous, covered by the most dense forests. When, therefore, it i.s considered a mule can only transport, by packing, a supply ot fura<'e to subsist upon for the short time of two weeks, it is easy to perceive how expensive this kind of trans[>ortation becomes. Aside from such extraordinary but nece.vsary expenses, the economy and cost of the miliary service in this department will com[)are favor- ably with tlie same in other sections of the country. lam, colonel, very respectfully, your (d)edient servant, WM. S HARNEY, Brujadier General, Commanding. Colonel y. Cooper, AJjulant (leneral, Washington, D. C. 52. The Adjutant General to General Ilarneg. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, August 10, 1859. M;i: Your letters of the 1 nth and 2()th .\]>ril to the general-in-chief, ^'■'"h Captain In^all's cliarges against Major Wyse, have been laid kt.i e the Secretary of War. I am instructed to communicate to you :s decision. The nets alle^Ld under the lirsi, eh,;; ge are sufficiently "punishable 'by the kuuwu laws of the land," (;i;id Article of War,) and appear to '■■4 i\ ,!' iK* t* »S' ■> II ''■'ml'"' .^J^^:l., '''m 168 AFFAIRS IN ORf:GON. |] have been already so |»niii.slie(l by sucli Hciitonce as the competent tri- bunal thou ;he investigation lie nclosed. nt, ^NSEND, Adjutant General icouver, W. T. larney. al's Office, [August 10, 1859. proceedings of tlie dentine Tliehm, ui to the Secretary uf ,iim. |'=E,"4tli infantry, rected tu coiuiiiuni- for its uncertainty jied until he shouli lestitution might bi- f pardon. prohibit rcstitu- b about it. Incase [and identifit'd, tlie Ibe rector. ' ni. liroceediu^ m notion to recover debt, or H()Uiidin<]; in daraago for injury ; and in this loi'anl tilt-' order No. 2 and the law make no distinction in favor of HiiilieiH over other persons who have suffered loss or injury. Tlif oTtli article of war, that a garri ;i;i iiic (1(1" ""'v-i^ <" ••<*■, wtw. .1, ^..irison court-martial shall not iin- ]'ison nor put to hanl labor for a longer time than one month, pro- vides for the penalty for one offence. The settled usage of military ciiurts to adjudge one sentence for all the olfences tried npon one iivrai"iHiient ought, perhaps, not to be disturbed. Jiut distinct olfences (iriSL'paiiite trials, by the sauio or by different garrison courts, may ,.:icli rt'coive its appropriate penalty, laui, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSENI), Assistant Adjutant (rencral. i'rigadier General W. S. ITarnky, U. S. Army, Commandiity Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, IV. T. 54. General Ilarne}) to General Scott. ■ Hkah Quarters Oki'artmknt of Orkoon, Fort Vancotiver, W. T,, August 15, 1859. Sin : I have the honor to enclose, for the information of the general- iu-cliief, certain rejiorls from Captains Ingallsand Kirkhiim, assistant (|iiartt'rmasters of this command, on the subject of the great deficien- cies in the supplies of chtthing required in tl is department, and sub- mitting several excellent stiggestions in refcMv 'ice to the system which slimiltl he adopted to prevent any such occurrence for the future. Ill my report to the general-in-chief of Novembe. 1858, and Feb- ruary 7, ISo'J, the special att;ention wf the bureau ta supply was asked upon the absolute necessity of transmitting the supplies tor this dejiart- iiiciit to dejiots at this point as early in the year as practicalile, and iiiver later than July, to enable the staff department here to supply tlio interior posts before the winter rains have rendered the roads diffi- cult ol' travel. I have now to report to the general-in-chief that, in consecjuence of ii wail t "t proper attention in this matter somewhere, my command Las lint lu'cn supplied with clothing as the regulations require. The iicu'h'i have heeu forwarded time and ajraii ■t (hies not rest in this department, fo;- tbo proper reipiisitions 'iicli clotliiu'T, shoes, and .stockiiiu's. as (iouid be boiiirht hav(>, from tlUli' nili 'b) to time, been procured ; bui these have been so interior a general llaiiit lias been made against them. ilaiiv ot the enlisted men have not had a stockin>r to wear for over one vear, some were months wit bout shoes, an il otl lers had no overalls 1m(iiii the lateness of the season and the non-arrival of supplies up til this (late 1 very much tear the romniands at Colville and VValla- ^\alla, and the troops with Lieutenant iMullaii, will be in mtieh. suf- tcriug this winter tor the want of proper eb.'tliin; V) 'V\ .:n illo Will iiiCruue ?5 *■ ■*' '•a'.'' s many of these horses as are actually [in u.se, as it would he a serious injury to the service to dispose of them. laiii, very res])ectfullv, youi most obediont servant, U. W. KIUKHAM, (Jtrplain and Assifstant ijaartenaasttr, Ciii>tain A. Plka.-^anton, A. A. A. (I'cn'l, hva(f(]'''ir/tis Dcp't of Oregon. T' clolhiiig, ,subsi.^l( nee, tl-e., sent in this department from the uli; ic States should nlicdjjs be forwarded by t^ect, liirect to this depot, loieaili lure early in June, eert;iinly not later than July, iu oriKr to teivo liiiK- to make the distribution to the (k'peiident commands during diy .Mas 11, and before theiold, rainy weather .sets in. I am of piecpiiiiou that the clothing, long since due, should have l)een ship[ied T>-.- .1 ^^R^ a:, .M.i [1 la Lr .V (, ■:i'. 0^i 172 ATTAIRS IN OKKQON. > direct to Miih dojot inHt«"\1 of by way of San FmnolHco, and atlendt two or tlirt'i' rnoiitliH em '(■ ' tlmn whh the ciiso this year. TluTeiir,' now iimtiy vosscIh tlmt tr.nli'to tliiw Territory from tlio Atliintio Stati.) A Hliip can make tlie trip from New York Imrbor, for itiHtiiiici., to thi^ rivor in iihoiit tlio hhiiic fitin' lunl at iwiirly the Hiimc nito of piiy aoti, Suti Fruncisoo. Nofliiti;^ hIioiiM Ik- sent by wtiy of tho bittor puit tlmi Ih iiitciiib'd lor tliiH (U'partmcnt. I have to rc'<[Ut'Ht tbiit tin- I'tMicri] will iiiaki! huch rcpri'snitatioiiH hh will ciumo our HUp[)lioH to nrriv» lioro ut the proper time hereafter. My ('.stiiimteH Inr elotliin;^ for tlio troopH in this dejiartment for tin your eommeneinfj; April I, IHdO, Ih herewith eneloHed, for th(3 reviniiin nnd approval of the <;eneral conuiiandinj^. 1 winh to fcrwanl tliim by the next steamer. I am, very re.spoct fully, your nioHt obedient Hervant, lllJFUH LNHUIJ.S, Captain and Asnisiant QuarlcnwiHlcr. Captain A Pt.KASANTov, 2i l)ra(joons, A, A. Ailj't (fen'l, present. 54 H I 1.. » - :■ - . ! . i: 1 OfFICK op A.s.SISTANT (i^UAUTEHMASTER, Fort Vaneouver, IV. 7'., Aiujust !'), 18,VJ, Captain: I have the honor to report to the j^eneral cominatuliii.- thi.s department that I have recently received a copy of (leneial Orders No. 18, War Department, June 17, IS')'.!, and that I have taken mea- surtH to com])ly with all its reiiuirements except in the latter part of I parat imi)erative wants. There has already been much suffering,' liytlie] troops for want of Htockings, shoes, ])ants, &:e., and in several c;bu< Al'FAlK8 IN OUK.UON 173 wiiH of li poor «|tmH' s .j,^,f,rpncy clotliinj? Ixih hccn |»nrc1itiH«Ml, but w iiiiHUitt'il to tlu'HiTvico and cxpciiNivc. The t'Nlimiiti'H lor ii full Hiiji'ly ti)r 111! til'' troops in tluH (lepiirttiu'tit wiTo duly lorwardod with rooom- ,,n,„ilntionH Iiy tliu goncrjil mid inyHclf, hoio iind when to forward it to this tk'|H't- 65. Colonil Merchant lo the Atfjutant General. Hkadquartkus Thiui) IIkuimknt Autillkuy, Presidio ()/ San Francwco, California, August 17, IS,')!). Sir: I liivve tlie honor to InriilHh, for the infoniiation ol the adju- iiiit LiciHTiil, the followin;^ extractH from the monthly returns of the Miiiimnii''^ «»ttho regiment Ktationed at Fort Vancouver for the month it i 011111111 Ill till' colmun of " a\»Hent enliwted men, accounted for hy name," the Cdiiiinaiidcr of company **A" reports "one private, Itohert Ctm- wiiv, on riirloii^rii since 2r)th of July, IK,')'.), until further orders, j)er JetU'i' tniiii lieiuhiuarters. Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 2-i, IH,")*.)." The conunaiider of company "B" reports ])rivates Cassidy and iFraiiieo, " ahsent with leave since July 2'M\ and 'J.")th, on fiiilongh hy Lider i4 (ieiieral Harney, at work on ]»rivate farm or rchidence of (ien- ciiil Harney." The commander of umipany "D" reports privates hViukiiiiui luid Glensnn on furlou^^h in vicinity of \m)h{, the former siiiti' Jii'ic 17, ly.VJ, the latter ^:ince June 'Jo, lHo\), reported on fur- liiii!,'h |)iiisu)iiit to instructions irom deiiartment of Oregon, dated July 'ii), 1S.V,3, " at work on private farm or residence of General Ilar- liiey.'' Thi' conunander of company " ]\I " reports "privates Covey and O'Dotto Dii I'lnhuigh, the former froiu June 11, ISiV.), until further onleis, the latter iroiu June 17, IH.V.i, until further orders, per letter (hUed Adjiitiuit's oliice, Fort Vancouver, W. T., July 2:5, IS.VJ. i'ri- vates C'livcy and Dctte wee ordeied to he placed on furlough hy the iiuiding ollicer juirsuant to special orders r(ceived hy him from ,., jiiiutc'is department ot Oregon, dated July 21], 18.')'.)." In iidiiition, 1 rfspectfuUy enclose herewith a letter from the eoiu- liii;ii)d(i' (if " 1) " (Company, enclosing his return and calling my atten- tion til tlie rernarh whicli I have herein taken from his return. T'iR'su reports heing irregular, I forward this information at this tinii', since the regimental returns on which the same remarks will he tnuisiiiitteil, will not he prejiared for two niontiis or more. 1 ilia, sir, very resjiectliillv, vour ohedient servant. CllAS. S. MKllCIIANT, JAvuteiiant (WomI od ArlUlenj. Ciiliiiiel S. CdoI'KR, AdJnUntt, (Ic.nvial U. S. Aiviij, ll'as/dtKjfon, I). C. Iri'iiini llietidi «l |gg g »ift- Mfc«iaj j MBak« < ■ " ' ™" ' "'^V ,'il';'W«W»"**'*'"'"*"'"-'' ' 174 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 55 a. Fort Vancouver, August 1 , I859, 81K : Accompanying; please find returns of companies "I3"an(l "D ' 3(1 artillery, for month of July, 185'J. I desire to call the attention of tiie lieutenant colonel cnmnianrlini' the regiment, to the remarks opposite tlie name:s ol' n)en lnrh)iit;'iit(i by ex pout facto order of the fi;eneral commanding this department which makes the monthly return of " i)" company, and last mustt- 1 roll, incorrect. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE IHRIE, First Lieutenant, 3(? Artilhry, Commanding Cornpmnes, First Lieut. Jno. C. Ciiandlkr, liegt. Adjt., \^(l artilleri/, Presidio San Francisco, . M-i 5G. General Harney to the Adjutant Ger.eral. ITeadqitartkrs Department of Oreoon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., August '60, 185',), O'LONEL : 1 have the honer to forward, for the use of the AVarPe-l partment, several very valuable maps of portions of thi.s (lcpartiiieii:( ah lut which so little has lierctofore lieen known. Tliese mii])s have been prep.ared by Ca[)tain A. Pleasonton, 2(1 ila^ goons, acting assistant adjutant general, asiilij from his approiniattl (lutirs, and it is with high satisliution tha^ 1 make the most honoralilel mention of tlie useful and intelligent exertions Captain Pleasontiin displays at nil times in whatever duties the service fiiay requireo:! him. TliC correctness ol tliese maps is established by the tcstimuny ot't!;!:| lii'Verend Father l)e Smct, who h;is been engaged at dill'erent times i the past seventeen yciirs in chai'itahlc missions to the varions natiot.'l o! Indians iiihahiting the countries delineated in these tnii[)M. The reverend I'athor liis been very kind in alfording Captain Plea-I sonloii every faeilitv of ohtainiiig inlormatioii ot' the suhjcets ihscrHd, not only iioni his notes and n)a|is, hut in ri'jieated conversations; uiiJl the jzener.ius iniiiiiu'r ii; which lie places at the disposition of tliOH'V-j erri'iierit the results ol' his labors !or ^^.> many suciMssive year.s. iseii'.i- tied to a much liiglier lecognitioii ol' his merit than 1 can hcstnw, 1 resjiectlnlly recommend thai these maps he published ior t!iL'iii:i' Illation of the army and the country generally. I am, Colonel, very respcctt'iillv, vour obedient servant, \VM. S. IIAKNKY, Brigadiir (ichcral, Cuiii:iiand'nj. (Jrlmiel f^.. Ci-oi'i;k, AdjiiJant General, H'c^hingtoiL Ci'y, I). 0. AFFAIRS I^' OREGON 175 August 1 , 1859. ies"B"an(l"I),' onel cmntuanilini; .){' men i'lirloiii^'iitil ; this (lepiirtrm'nt. y, ami last rausti- t, IE imuE, ndincj Conqninies. Francisco. ■ er.eral. Oreoon, Augmt 30, 1850, use of the "War Dt-I I ot this (h'partmi'n: Pleasonloi'., 2(1 d*] nil his mipropviittl the most liovKU'iilil Captain P eusoi (•vice may rctpiu'et Ithe tesliimmyoftkl at ililVcrent times i: the various natior.i| Itliose mai)s. fnliiii!; Ciiptiiin riea-| le suhjeots dtscriiioJ, conversations; uiul| ]H)sition (if tlioyiv- t ssive yi'ars, iscii'.i- an 1 can Ix'^tow. Ihlishea fortluMii:";- Iscrvant, . IIAUNFA', ■/•a/, CV'i// •■'/(;;(('''«:'■ C. 57. General Harney to the Adjutant Generel. Headquarters Dkpartment of C)re{jon, Fort Vanconver, W. T., September 2, 1859, (Vlo.n'EI- : Since my commuiiieation of July 20, of this year, re- i,iiit'stiiiL? tliiee hundred recruit.s to he sent to this a. .nmaud to fill up I tiif viiaiucies due to the ordinary casualties of 8er^'ice, I have heen iuliirnit'd that the term of service of the enlisted men ot the nintli rL"nii)eut ot infantry expires next 8{irin<:j — that regiment havin^j; heen oAitiizc'd in 1855. Few of these men will re-enlist in consequence ^tlic "reat inducements held out in other pursuits of life in this IcMimti'v. The losses, therefore, to the several companies of this rej^i- [liient will average thirty men to each, makinijj a loss of three hundred liudi tdi' the ]ej,;iment ; to this number add a loss of at least fifty men [lur till' other arms of service by the first of next March, and you will Ifcc tlio necessity for this increased number of recruits (three hundred laiiil fittv) for this cojuraand by the beginning of next spring, making [the total nnmher of recruits re(]uired six hundred and fifty men. lam, Colonel, very lespectfuUy, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding . Cdlont'l S. Cooper, Ailjntant General U. S. Army, Washing/on Gil//, 1). G. 58. General Harney to General Scott. Headquarteus Dki'Aktmkxt op OuE(J0.V, Fort Vancouver, IV. T., Septemlier ^), 1859. Sii! : I luivi' tlu> honor to acknowledge the receipt of an extract 11 '11! Sjifcial Orders No. 7-!, of this year, from tlie iRvuhpiarters of the >n;iv. (lircctitig two companies of the fonrth infantry to he sent to can l''r,i!icisco lor duty in the (le|)artment of California. lilc-iie to report, ior the informati(Ui of the general-in clii( f, thattlie ta'ili'^liiiient of nine coinpani' s of my command upon San -Juan island, A' luix'ssary hy the conduct of the I'ritish authorities of Vancouver's liiul. li:is created a necessity for more troops in this department, the >1 .t V;iiK'ouvcr being at this time with.out a single organized eotn- iiiv tnriiiiii!;- its i.!;arrisoii. I'liiiipaiiKs o the loui'tli inl'antrv in this deiiartmeiit are ^ta- luiU'il ;i.s t.'llows : Oil S,i;i . loan island three cuiiip.inies that cannot iirc'l : one c>)m])aiiy at l''ort Stcilaeoom, in cli;irg(> of a 'argi' |iri"ii;it ot aiiHiiuiiition aid st((res : there is no disp >sal)le company to iac" this. At Fort Yamhill, one company, in charge ol Indian rviuidii ; at Fori lloskins, two companies, in charg(! of Indian psiTvutioiis ; and, being in the neighl)orhood of the northern Oregon Diliaiis tliat are now hostil(% this command cannot be reduced with- Dt exeitiiiij: great alarm among the people of that region, witli Biiuvr ol' tlie coinmunication to California by land being inti-rruiited. M 4' ■!f3 rf'^P^i I* n M 176 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. In view of these facts, I deem it iny duty to the service here to defer Ken(lin<; the two companies of the fourth infantry to San Fran- cisco until the general-in-chief has considered the necessities ^et iorth in this communication. Since the occupation of San JufiQ island the northern Indians hav^ made two attacks upon our people on the sound, and I am inclined to helieve th<.y will continue to i\, so until our affairs have heen properly arranj^ed with the British government in reference to the islands of Puget's Sound. To keen these Indians in check, the present force on the sound should not be reduced. I am, sir, very respectfully, your ohedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarlers of the Army, Neio York City. r>9. General Harney to General Scott, Headquartkks Dei'akt.mknt of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, IV. T., September 15, 18.1 Sir: I have the honor of calling the attention of the j^a^neral-ic-j cliief and the War Department to the pressing necessities ior n)ilitiirr[ roads in tiie country embraced l»y th's command, and especially tlia; portion of it adjacent to Puget's Sound. The immeii.se fdres numerous streams, and different ranges of mountains on this coasil rtMjuire time, science, and money in removing or av(ndiii!; tlieirl obsti'uctions to obtain certain and sjk edy passages of travel tliruiislil them. I therefore submit the following recommendations for tliel construction of certain military roads to enable the department to ii>tj oi Congress at an early day tlie necessary ap[)r()i)riati()ns to establi*!! the works required: First. The road of greatest i?nportance is one recjuired from Fur;! Vancouver to Fort Steilacoom on Puget's Sound. Our comniuiiiciitioil ■with tlie sound is now done by sen, tliere being no road by wiiic'lil troops and supplies can be transported. 1 tlierelore propose that tlisj ]);(s<'iit military road from V.rt Steilacoom to the head oftliei'nwli j'ivcr b!' continued to Montii'ello, near the (Johimbia river, and at t same time a road l)e constructed trom fort Vancouver to the Luailo;! the Cowlitz river. The continualio i of tlu; tirst-named road to.Mni-l tieel! , will cost •>< ■.*(), OUl). The second road from Vancouver will be 81(),0nU more. Scroiid The road from Fort Vomc mcr to the DaVcH. At pres!;D!| this (listan(,'e is tr.ivellel by water, there btdng no practicalile miiii The lieavy ex|»eiises the ^iovernnienl has been ol)liged to pay foitninn ])ortation on tliis route necessitate tlie construction of this roail,i'rat| least a practicable dragoon trail. 1 tiiink $tiU,()U(> would coii^ni th.e road required; and as the ColunUna riv(.'r is the main arleiy ofl AFFAIRS IX OREGON. 177 3 service here to try to San Fran- le necosnities > '1'""^ iiom the interior, this road would he a public benefit to ili'ecitizcn.s of the country. Tliird. lu ray report of the 19th of July last to the general-in-chief f pi,i(;L'(l Ik'Umo liiin (he ncecssity and importance of permanent fortifi- iitidiis ou I'uget's Sound tu jirotect and deiend the inhabitants of that -ection of the country from an invading enemy. Such })osition8, as ■veil as the iuhabitanta themseives, if left isolated, without means of ",mimunioation to the interior, would only j)re8ent points inviting an •ittayk. I therefore urge the oonsLruction of a military road from Port Towiiscnd, opposite San Juan island, to 01ymi)ia, at the head of the miiukI and from thence to Astoria, near the mouth of the Columbia river. This road can be made lor $75,000, In connexion with this •i,a(l the iniii*'ary road now in cour.se of construction should be com- iiletcd, the estimates for which are §4r»,000, between Fort Steilacooni \ ami Bellingham. [''viuih. Another important military road is required from SecflJe, 111 I'iiast, informs me that a good practicalile road can be ■ail out t'i"ni the Stint li I'ass of tin; llocky mountain.s, on the west side •jI tiie W'iiAil liivcr niniiiitains, to the lie.iil of Salmon river, down that \\\\'>- fo the Stialce, 1 hence to Fort Walla- Walla. This road will i.Hiiirel'Ut Utile work, t!ic country heiiig naturally goo 1 lor roads. The ;ijiu,iteue>s ol'this coiiiuiaiid li'oin the seat ol government, its present :tern States to Calilornia, Oregon, and Washington Tifritories. Tiie ,L;reiit distance these people ii,re compelh'd to pass ever without kiii^fiii-lc fo procure aiiv suhsisten 'o oldiges them to start witii large Ji, K.v. Doc. i;,-,-!- 12 '■'I 178 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. traiuM loailed with provisions to 8Ui)port them on the route. Tin. nocessi'y incurs a very lioavy oxptMuliture of money and niear- ,wl)ic|i many of these ])er8ons can hut ill aiforu, and they noi unfreqnenilv arrive at the end of their journey late in the season with nothincr { maintain tliemselves throujj;!! the winter. To obviate these embarrassments, I would sngj^e.^t that Congress 1), roijuesled to increase the appropriation for the subsistence departinint of tlic army sufficiently to enable a supply of provisions to be placv,j at each of the military posts on the great routes of travel across tho continent, to be sold to emigrants at cost price in such quantities as will relieve their necessities. The government will not lose by tlii arrangement, and the emigrants will be greatly benefited. Th? present laws permit provisions to be given to indigent Indian^ and I lliink they should be so extended as to cover the p>ressini»' want; of our own people. I am, sir, vcy respectfully; your obedient servfint, W. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Conmanding. Assistant Ai^jutant General, Headquarters of the ArmT/, Neto York City. J"^:; 60. Tlie Adjutant General to General Ilarney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, September 17, i6yj. General : Your letter of the 23d of April last, enclosing Mr. War- 1 • ss's comj)laint against First Lieutenant John CJ. Howard, 'Jtii in- f (try, has been laid before the Secretary of War, who orders tia; you inquire into the matter complained of by Mr. Warbass, and it i! appears that the complaint is well founded, that you appoint a "eiitri! court-martial foi the trial of Lieutenant Howard, on chai/es to ii. drawn up under your directi(m. Mr. Warbass's letter is herewith returned. Verv respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWN.SEND, Assistant Adjutant GenevpJ. Brigadier General W. S. Hahnky, U. S. A., Goniuiandiny Departinent of lhr t'tni^i'ation to Oivjijnn boinf;; very lfirp;o, and the Indians troiible- ,;,)i,it> I sliiill reniaiu out a month hmgcr tlian contemplated, or until iibmittlio Iwt of November. Xij tmiihle hiis as yet occurred on the Orejijoi: route, hut among those i^iiii'o to California several murders have been committed by the liidians. There tir(> three commands in the Held I'rom t^is post. The one •iiiiilti' Lit'utenant Gay luid a (ij^ht tiiree or four days since, killing twuiitv iiidijins and recovering several of the animals stolen from the eiiiijinintH. I have made several im|)ortant changes in the rt)Ute over which i liiive passed, saving in one place over a hundred miles, all of which will 1)0 reported upon at length upon my return. 1 liono the general commanding will approve of my slaying out i,iiii;i'r lli.'Hi was projiosed, as, in my judgment, the good of the service 'iiiiiires that we remain in the iield until all the emigration for the (iHiiii'tment of Oregon has safely passed the hostile Indians. Iain captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. D. WALLEN, Captain 4fh Infantry, Commandhuj Expedition. Captain A. Pleasonton, 'id ((nxjoons, Acting Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters Dcp't of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. IP^ndorseuieiit.l IIkadqcai^tkrs Depautmkxt of Oukoon, Fort Vancouver, IV. T., Septernl>er 11), 185',). rus[iect fully Ibrwarded for the informatinn of the general-in-chief. lis iv[ii)rt is very satislaetory, in showing the routf has been greatly iiitciied by Captain \Valleii. The tiistaiice over tliis route will not inui'li (ivirsix hundred mik's — nearly thn'c hundred miles less than lite by the Walhi-Walla. Captain Walleu's design of retiirn- ': ill rear ut the iiuigraiits, to protect them irom tin' Indians, is ij'li'Vl'll. W. [S. IIARXEY, Biigadicr (niteral, Cominanding. til" r :m (u'ueral Harney to the Adjutant (icneral. Ill-.\liiiliAKTEI!S DkI'AUTMKNT OF OhKOOX, Furl I'aniimvr, IV. T., Siplc tnlwr 19, 1851). IJlI.O M I, : l)y S|ii'c'iat Orders N o o iniui these headiiuariers of this lytir, a L.'1'iicral cDurt-iiiartial was conv'Mied for the trial ot' Firt Lieut. il'iliii tj. Iliiwanl, ol'tlie '.Ith infantry, who was chargi'd with tin- most ag<,Mavah(l coiiiliicl in drawing a i)isiol on his commanding oilicer and llin'atciiiiii^ to shoot him. Lii-iitcnant Howard was prt)per!y arrested, ^vill be seen by the eiielosed eommiinieation which he received, hut *• i: ~...^,^M,Li , :l »■ ' , « ii'. w 180 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. which ha has not oheyed, as shown by tlio enclosed report of Captain Jndah, of the 4th infantry, coranmnding Fort Steihicooin. liis prtNeiit vhercabouts is not known. 1 therefore respectfully recomineud that this officer be dro|)ped Irom the rolls of the army. 1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HAUNEY, Bruj/adier General, Commanding, Colonel S. Cooper, AJJt. Gen., Washin( iKir/iiicut of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T, ; .i^.. , !• t NVm") ^^'ho has endorsed it as follows : "if tlii'ie me not nmles enoui^b in the department to supply the aildWivncc aiiHiorized in (ienoral Orders No. II], the deficiency may be |y a cavalry officer to lie suitable. ■'The allowance of means of transportation, authorized in the <;en- ^:u\ oiilevs alluded to, at any post, will not be increased without sjiecial ;iutlii»ritv olitained tlirouj^h the (piarterraaster general, on a report mniunication from Oililiiin II. I). Wallen, 4th infantry, reporting iiis return from the jlirtiit Salt lake as far as \he (irand Konde ; also a copy of a eommu- hiiiatioii tViini sotni' emigrants, expressinij,' their acknowledgments for jtlie iirntc'cfinu wiiicli has been e.Ktcnded to tlietn through the hostile : lii'liiin ciiiiiitry in their route. Till' rf|iort of Captain Wallen is highly satisfactory, in showing that l^iulul wagons nui pass frdiu the Columbia liver to the Great Salt il;ik!' ill twenty nine days, and thit this distaii ;e is susce])tible of '.eing lurtatly ivihu'ed liv navigating with st-amers the Snake river fnun Diiiiit liver to within a shoi't distance of SalnuMi falls. \\!iiii Ca|itaiii Wallen sul)tnits his detailed report it will be tluly ! nviirilcil. Ill the meintime 1 a::;iiiii rei|uest thi' authority to estab- 'i:>!i u [iiiM ot iMir compiiiiii's in tlui vicinity ot the mouth of Burnt Irivii, iis it w'U servi- to protect the emigration on this route, so much iitiih'il at this time, besides proviiii:; a valuable depot in ease it is con- bnkrtiU'.xnedieut to attempt the navigation of Snake river at any future w -'•mm 182 AFrAIRS IS ORKGOV. ])erio(l. The troops i'or tliis poHition hIiouM be en route by tlic fitNtoi A])ril lu'xt. I am, sir, very reHpectfully, your obe licnt Herviint, W. K. HAIINEY, Brlyndicr (rentral, (Joininanding, Assistant Adjutant Genkual, llemlquartevH of Ike Army, Neio York Citij. if 'VM % i^ 64 a. Heauquartkrs Wagon Road Expedition, Camp at the Grand Itoiule, October 1, 1859. Captain : I have the honor to report my arrival ut this camp yester- day, September ;30. I have made the trip with loaded wajijori.s Irimi the lerry on liear river, le entrance to the valley of the Great Salt lake, in twenty-lour travelling days. My present camp is distiint from the Umatilla five days, so that the entire distance from the vulj^v of the Great Salt lake to navigation on llie Columbia river is tweiitv- nine days with loaded wagons ; measured distance five huiidrt'd aiiil thirty-two miles. I nuiv be live miles out of the way, as I liiive int yet measured the distance from tliis to tlie mouth of the Utiiatillii, From Burnt river to within twenty miles of Salmon iiUls, a dis- tance (>f one hundred and eiglity-tiMir miles, Snake river can he imvi- gated liy steamers as large as those used on the Columbia; the luml travel tlien can be reduced, by tliis loute, to three hundred and toitv- eiglit miles, with grass, Wiiter, and wood at proper intervals tiir (mi- cani|iments. ^My average travel has been eighteen and a halt' luilij per day. On my airival at the Umatilla ' shall detach riientenaiit Swciiz-r, with the dragoons, to his ])ost, 'A'alla-Walla, and niov^ (Idwii tn tiii Dalles by easy marches, to save the animals as mucli as pds.sililo, The horses are looking very well indeed, considering that ii hn;,'e pro[)nrtion of them will have travelle(l about nineteen luiudred iiiilis on their return to Walla- Walla ; if reijuired, they could liave inarclicil still liirrher. I attribute their present coiulition to Lieutenant Swu't- zei's great care and unmagement. The mules are looking as well a< could be expected alter the long trij) and tlie condition that some nf them were in when we started Irom the Dalles. 1 was obljijed tie il- eum]! nine days at the Owyhee, and send the dragoons back sixry miles to bring up some emigrants who sent forward to int'orin nit'tli;i; they were out of animals and ])rovisions. 1 have; supplied tlicso tiiiiii- lies with animals and food sinci', as they were entirely destitutu, uiiil 1 deemed it my duty to do all in my power to hel[) them to t'lC'seftl;- ments. But for (Uir being out on the roa behaved in the most exemplary manner, having been sober, e:. ij:'i^.. RSaiDf AFFAIRS IN OKEOON. 183 nile by the first of tlie ciiiiiinariil l.iVt cell siibcr, c:. ■<-'''^^h • nil willing (liirinjjj tlio entire trip; and tliat no aninmlH liave been stdkii by tlio liostile IiulianH Hince wo left Fort UalloH. We liiive neeu quite a nutaber of IiulianH, and 1 am more than con- iDced tliiit the safety of tlie emigration has been due entirely to the iiie-oncL' i)f troo»' along the route. Tiie Indians seem to have been tioublt'f^orne on botii the Oregon and California roads ; on the latter , ' sevcnil lives have been lost, smd (juite a number of emigrants ,; ji 'It'll ; on the Oregon route I can hear of hut one man being wounded, this near tlie Malheur ; but 1 have seen no [jerson who con- iiriiis the report. Ill mv oiHcial report, in reference to tlie exploration, all will bo Mciitiniiod us to the country passed over, distances, &c. It will l)e necessary lor Lieutenant Dixon and myseli to bo at the ■liiue htation until our maps and reports are completed. 1 therolbro u: pcctt'iilly ask that he may ho ordered to remain ut whatever post :iiiiv be my station on njy return. lliavc the honor to be, caittain, very respectfully, viv.ir ob't servant, 11. U. WALLEN, (Japlain 4(h Infanlry, Conimandiiiy Expeditkn. Captain A. PlkacONTON, Second lJra(joon,s, Act. Just. Adjt. General, JJeculquarters Depart iiieni of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. fi4 h. GiiANUK UoNiJi:, OuKGON, Sepleinl)cr 30, 1859. mk: We (h'sire, through you, c« express our ackno\\led;''ments to (ioiieial lliuiicy, commanding in the J^tate of Oregon and in Washing- tiiii Tcnirury, lor the proteetion extended by him to the large emiu'ra- ti' iitb.it has just passed through a hostile Indian country. Th(! Indians iiinl avouod their determination not to allow the euiigranls to pass iilii'iiiiu'li without committing acts ol violence but t!ie general's troops wciv veady to meet us liundredsof miles from the Columbia river, and 'iriiti'ct the lives of our •.. ives and children. We eanuiit take leave ■. ' you. captain, witliout presenting our thanks [iiirviMif imiform kini':ess to us along the route, for su|)plying provi- j.-ioiisaud transportation to those families wl\o were destitute, and for iwtiitiiig jiatieritly with us on tb." road until all have {-.assed safely into |tiie st.4tle:iieiits. For these and the many othci acts of courtesy from lyiiirsidf and the olHcers and soldiers under your command, he pleased t'iiiiTv[)t our gratitude. NICOIiAS DUPUIS. WlliSON SMITH. J A JOB (iOVFTTE. dOHN J. NVE. dOSFIMl IIK.MIOT. S. C. DOKO. FRANCIS (JO YKTTK. F. WAlll). NICOIiAS DUFUIS, Jr. 'Jii|itain Wai.i.'.n, U. S. Aniiii uiamandiug troojis on Snake river. \ ■ llf 1'. ' 1 ' f t ■ i pi'* ..-H \^\h n uil I.' l^'t- Al FAIRS I\ CHEC.OS 65. Cftnerol IJarney to ^ < ttal SoUt. HeAPQITAHTKHS DKrAIlTAIl'NT iiK OuK(J0N, Fort yancotivcr, W. T., Noveinbir 12, ISiVj. Sin: ] ]iav(: llie Ik ;• i to t'iicl(».s<', for flu^ itirnniiiitioii of tlio "oiicnii. iri-rliii-l, an intercut'; <^ coJiiiiiuiiiriitioii Iroin the llcvcrcnd FiuIkt j), yiuct, repoitiri;; h'\n arrival in 8t. TiOiiiN, in ohcdioncc! to llie nNiiiii,,. nifiits ol Sin'cia! Oidcrs No. r»U, iVorn IIicnc iK'adrniurtor.s, of thin vinr In connexion with tlii.s report, 1 would aj^Miin eall tlie attention „'ft|,, government to tlie important NerviecN tlie Reverend Father DeSini l.iih rendered in the past year. My reporlH of his <,'()()d o(Ho(3.s (hirin'- lii.s term ofdntyvvith this coiiunand oliaraoterizo the merit of his hik" cess in esfahlishinj^ peace and confidence Ix'tween the whitcH ami tl, dillerent trihes of Indians who were so lately hostile. To these 1 have now the hi,'<,'estive of the ,i;reat hciictits to bo a: taimd in the encouragement ol the missionaries among them. These go(>(l people control then\ hy conve.-ting their su|)er«litionsint, an honest faith in Christianity, and hy no doing render them virtuous iiml contented with t lit ir condition. The best uiuierstauding exists in tli;< department between the missions and the military, and the results the past year indicate that, so long as tliis is the ease, peace will i maintained between the whites and the Indians. 1 am, sir,, very respecttully, your obedient servant, \Vi\I. «. ilAUNKY, BrigaiUtr ilcneral, t'ommnndwj. The Assistant Adjutant Gi^.m^ual, ikadquarlers of the Army, Ncio York City. ^\ (),") a. S-". Loris Univkusity, October 5, IS,')!), Di:aii (\\i'TAry: I hope my Icttei's from the liocky mountains will have reached you in due time. They contained nothing of very par- ticular interest. I. reached Foit I'enton, on the Missouri, on tlii' :ili;L of July last, eleven days altei' the de]);nture of the steamer "Cliiiii'i- way." All appealed to be (juiet aiiioJig tlie I>lack!eet. I foniul ii!ii;i; two hundred lodges of (tros Ventres aod Indians of various IiaihN camped in the vicinity of th(! hot. I held several conferences with th( m of a jieaceful and religions nature, during whieli they seeiiiindj paid the utmost attention and respect. hince the treatv made bv (ilovern.ors Stevens and Ciimniini's tluv AFFAIRS IN OHKOOV. 185 3HK(10N, inhn- lli, 1850. >n ol tho f:;i>iiiMii!- 'ort'iul Father 1)^ (•(! to IIh^ n'i)iiiiv ters, of tlii.s uiir. e atti'ution ol'tlu Fiitlicr DeSiiit khI oflices (luiin; I morit of liis siic- \\e wliitcH and tl:e ittin^ his own a>- wild tiil)OH lie lm< from the sliores n! lice which this lit- the mi lids of iIk I beiu'tits to bea:- ii()n't of viirious liaii'l* eotifcreiii'cs with ich they M.'e!iiii);;ly Ciiraiiiings tl'j'y liftvo ^t'ictly nilliortMl to nil its Htipuli'itionH; iiiid fair hojx'H, 1 think, i„i,y 1,^. c'litertiiined of thi! conlinui nee of their j^ood will towiirdw the wliifi'" I h'tt Hi'V. !''■ noecken amonj; tlio llluckfiet, who Ih to coninience ft missioniiry estfthliishnieiit ji their midst, with the appr jhalion ami aiiimrintly to the f^reat satiNfaetioii of till the liidiauH cf this upper it.KJiin. i'l" Ilo<'f'k»'ii luiN ureat hopes of its success. At niv arrival at Fori I'.eiit in my Indian horses had jiretty tiij^h I'ivcn out ; their hacks '"■ere sure and their hoofs mnch worn, which made uie tk'terinine on nMirninfij to St, Louis hy way of the Missouri liver. I oil' red the eoiistro'tion ol' a skill" and hired three yoi.Mi};; null to n.>'sist II' Ml dowi -il course, addinjj; a fourth one to tli iiUiiiU'r th a jiost near Fort [B.iiM'e, on tl;e route to iSalt lake, that position would he a proper one [fir the lieadipiarters of the -Itu infantry, at present at Fort Vaa- Icwuver, 1 am, sir, very respecti'ullv, vour obedient servant, W. S. HARNEY, _ Brujadier General, Commanding , \i>i>T.\\i Ad.iltant General, II( "'' il 190 AFFAIRS IN ORFGOX. ii#-i ^ Rerun rJcs M' ;.f m hi On Brigadier General Harney's letter to the Secretary of War, dated Doceuiber 'J, 18;)1), which the Secretary has courteouHly cmis^ij to lie .sent to niS; ovidently aj;ainst the wishes and expectations ofth writer. 'J'liis act of the Secretary, with the rehnke that went direct from liim to Brij^adic'r General II., on the 7th instant, may, it is hojjcd, mm;- what disabuse the latter of the besotted notion that he and his pritici- pal stalf (ifHcer will be snpported at Washington, no matter \vhi,t blnnder either of them may oilicially commit. At the foot of page ii the brigadier general says that I had informeil him his cliarges against Lientenant De Hart " would not be enter- tained by tlie War Department." Tiiis is an error with a motive. What I did ."ay, or authorized Lieutenant Colonel Thomas to say in my behalf, was simply this : that from some slight allusion to the charges against Lieutenant De H., volunteered by the acting Secretarv of War, in conversation with me at my last visit to Washington,! thought it doubtful whether a court would be ordered for the trial of the lieutenant on those charges ; and in the meantime, as the lieuten- apt's services were needed, I wished the brigadier general to suspend the arrest, and to have the credit of doing a generous act. But tliij was not to his taste, which satisfied me that his object was not (Hscip-l line, but vengeance. Hence I ordered the suspension myself, ainl added, expressly, in the order, that in case the War Department I sliouhl appoint a court for the trial of the lieutenant, his arrest conltl then be renewed. Lideed, from the beginning I was surprised that the prosecutor should desire to place his charges before a court, as, to me, it appeared certain that the accused would not be tlie greater suf- i'erer by an investigation. In the next (4th) page of tlie letter the brigadier gencial pro/es/s (') I against tliat. tei)][)iirary release of llie accused, on two grounds: 1. That tiie suspension of the arrest "seriously inniaired the force! of a vital military principle," &e. Tiiere mignt be some little 8ens> or a{)plication in this grmmd of protest il 1 had pardoned, or atteruptel I to pardon. Lieutenant De Hart hetore trial ; tint it is utter nonsen,-e when it in recollected that my order in the case did nothing thatcoiiiJ delay a trial for a moment, or crip[)le, in the case of guilt, the ultiinstej vengeance of the law, but only relieved him from the private venjrein', of his prosecutor or prosecutors until a court could take hiiu in lumJ Under this same head sometliing is said aboi'.t a '■ violation of the I rules ot war and the custom oldur service." According to tlioseiti qtiite common to sus[)end the arrest of an oilicer in the long absened of any court, or to meet an exigency of the service, and 1 had tlii'tnvi motives in niy act, as well as a third, viz: to relieve a nieritorioiis young oiiicer Irom the persecution ol his prosecutors. 2. Tiie second ground of jirotest set forth by the brigadier goiiml is as curious as it is malignant. He cites the act of May "iU, l8;li)-.i| law expressly intend(Ml to protect the [irosecutcd against tiial byciiiiii appointed by [ironecutois, (!j as if it cjuM h ivc any p ).ssi!)le biiniii;; I AlFAIUS IN ORhGOX 191 Socrotary of War, courteoUHly cuns'il expectatious of tl c rent, direct from liini ', it \h hoiK'd, wime- it lie and \m princi- n\, no matter whut tliat I had informed would not be enter- ;rror witb a motive. el Thomas to say in I ight allusion to the ■ the acting Secretary sit to Washington, 1 lered for the trial of | itirae, as the lieuten- T general to suspend eroHS act. But this | object was not disdf- (pension myself, and lie War Department! nant, his arrest could I was surprised that ' before a court, as, I' ot bo the greater sut- ,er general proteshi^.) {] two grounds: y impaired tlie force be some little sense ardoned, or attempts 1 lit it is utter nonsenrf lid nothing that could of guilt, the ultiinatej Ithe private vengeano' dd take liiin in luind _, '■ violation of tlie] ccording to these it is in the long absence] ce, and 1 hadtlietwvi relieve a nieritoriniis| Itors. Ithe In-i'jadicr -< 2 u a r. u a u H 09 13 U •imox 2gS R ^ to 'luaiiiaiiijiioa JO isojjd iif 2 t>iW 1 : 1 1 ■Xinp Xjiup JO tjjiv.) ii() i ; 1 o ■Allip JOJ - n ixiii) 'uaauiiiv ■A ! ■A ■■aa|a|inw t- et o> " H ■■Ituodjoo S ' 8 i ' ■8) ■apjOM3]H |ui|i1m>h i : ■gjunuBjaa aauuupjo ^H 1 : ■•tuaui -|83i JO Jims p3UO|98pUUI03-U01^ c» J •pauo|Be)uiuio3 imox «r CO C3 s 01 ■lujajisqns s « ^ ^ •BUjinduo "^ -« 1 m ■BJa3mui|UH |Vtll3IU|83H 1 e( •8i33y)o p|3D pnuaiU!83H CO CO 1 i ■M3d3a]|ajo)a i(jdi!||IV 1 : •aauuupJo 1 ■liiauiiiiidsp Xsd 1 -: — ■)U3lU)Jud3p |I1.1!P3I\[ •-H - 1 i 'liiaiXMudap a3U3)8i8qna | 1 i ■)U.)lll)JIl(l,ip >:,J318UIIU3Uttnt) 1 i 1 ■sajunduio} JO uaua'i n s ■ M * is] 11 -i 1 t a : = s <• 1 f < ii e .s s ° i •o A) < i >. 9 u H. Ex. Doc. G5 ■13 !F ^H i ; i i W4 194 .s e4" fe b s I It AFFAII13 IN OREGON. i •A •piniil no fiiJIIlai jmid ^inin in -an 9 1 •uimiifM)|v 1 i- i- i 1 •l'l->IJ 1 'Xaioii 01 u a o a •uoiiaa tir JBO| JO pamx ■siqaaaiAJSiun •a|(|n.)3|,u3g ■pi)j|nb;ij iiiaiaju | '" S S » •uou»n III papunoAi | : : : • > i o h < 1 to ■ 2 < S < ■umn.uiiavr ; at m *4 « ^ ■5 •paUo«3a ^ F^ 91 i ** •iioiiau U| ilu|>»i|HI : i 5 •aif 'iiHuanip iiiojj « ^ Mjoifi pa,t|a.)aj fipiin<>M|»jo'ii,)ai>il| : • . S » .a •paJjajHuiui, t0 e 1 " c4 1 ■xasiiDa jai|io iuai,{ fM - •XiMPHisip loA •oa\,\x3*}o n(i|iuj|ili3 *-4 - II 5 i -a •3if 'onesip iiioij Mj.iqi paA|.)jaj «piinnM|(ij(i'ii,i.>nii| ; 'Jig 'paSjuiiJ 1 : *-i r. a •owiaiHy pH - 1 o i (3 3 ■iioiuasspuioJJ - : »-i •pauiof : m •p,)is!iii,t-ii}| : ■)ii»ill|8ai 3i|) ii; paiMjiiia ■ilodap uiuj) siinija}| 1 1 : ■Hjaayio pauoissjuiiuoa \ •SOllludlllOD JO siuno'^I s .a ■a Oi 5 a < 1 t "a C 1 ■a 1 1 a 1 a; i 1 i c C *S 1 i ■< i 5 a >> n 3 ■& '■J AFFAIRS IN OREOON. 195 z u 1! ■ •■ * ^ 7. >• (. 8 1 « c C t* ■i cc a F* »i H ^ :: < 5 J t, J < -t u ic a c ; g H < 1. c e ^ is-s E s ^ I il I i s 3 j i * ^ . u. ?■ ;• s-u. _ = - - je ^ •• n K .i 1 V * .i: I 4 § s a 8 ^S h i? 3 3 ifi^ii ij i bS It e c , MMfi, CSV m * *s. _---3 c s £ c ic s a^ -* -^ !j " o — "S .£ -a «i J! 03 n »~-n iiiii 3 I'lS 3 : ?fi?f4 ^ 8ao-^©m-*i/^w = c o e e o c o- a e IHG AFFAIRS IN OIlEaOJT. i ;■» ' i I 'f, ,',!--i 'l| i 8 !^ o s u a h U Q M rn O < O U R O o ■^ ^ o !« " III ^11 Ml 'Sji iiili ! iiiii >,>,>) >i >t ' >» >i >> >i >i 88 88 u o u o u H r/j ea u o .J a. 33333= 333 r: 3 S5? s « p J. o o o ^QCO 9J O If Is. SI & be L.iLjti. AFFAIRS IN ORKOON. 107 ui J i O h" ^ I u a OS o a t i 1 ' • ' !itS ;^:^ ■M^ 193 AFFAIRS IN OREGON". i .[A iff-? .• : I -I ■- ! k; I i., -ft I! -o «; s m a S c < o « >» ■■rs » >o OS 00 o rH th .5? s 7^ H 1^ ^ s 1 < O h s § "W r/j rC a < ^ a < E-i ju: f- U BS %^ c< V s T. s 9i Ci U o o t2 ^ ™' t^ Z '^ o s? 7j ;* ? #r lij (. w •^ o ft. »< 1 i '^ i •3 1 e i i^ g !>. ^ a s **'S e c.x, e e CJ W •1" £3 i 0) ~ c ::S >< 2^ CO 3 6 1 rt e 0) 8 o II K o S._ gj 1 t a.0 a si s" 73 « 1 r= gsS c c Zra Jt.i 00 << £ ft H -■ ^ o . J» 2 S S PQ a Dm u S o 4) £ ^ « c. o c o i b b c i. e c C ; s C C ^ a V ci ■c i"^ I i 3 b: c .' ^ s 1; c *- £ : ii e •3 c c z i 2 O r C P o ^ > C - ; X ?: m oe Q * ^ (E > "^ h ^ in z B c 1 i i li i 1 . ^ c c u z fiB u •i f 1 't r t ) PS tf = ^ -s f • ft » - . 1 1 ■3 CD V3 s a 9 < o a i2 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 199 69. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant Genkral's Office, Washington, December 17, 1859. General: Your letter of Sepiember 19, 1859^ reporting the failure of First Lieuteuant John C. Howard, 9th infantry, to appear before the "eneral court-martial appointed by you for his trial, and recom- mending that his name be dropped from the rolls of the army, was (Inly laid before the Secretary of War, and has been returned to this office with the following endorsement : " War Departmet, December 8, 1859. "The case is not considered to require the action recommended by the departineut commander. "J. B. FLOYD, ** Secretary of War," 1 have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant General. Brigadier General W. S, Hakney, U. S. A., Com'g Dep't of Oregon, Fort Vancouver j W. T. 70. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, December 17, 1859. General: I have the honor to transmit to you several communica- tions wliicli have been received at the War Department, presenting claims to the site of Fort Cascades, Washington Territory, respecting I which the following decision has been given : " War Department, July IG, 1859. "In view of the adverse claims relative to the occupation of Fort [Cascades, Washington Territory, by the government, the whole sub- ject will be referred to the commanding officer of the deparment of I Oregon tor further investigation and adjustment, subject to the ap- Iproval of this department, both as regards damages for the past and |the terms of occupation for tlie future. The claimants will, therefore, 'present their claims in a definite shape to that officer. The govern- jnient will not desire to purchase, but may lease for a period of ten hears, if rec[uired so long for military purposes. "W. R. DRINKARD, ''Act ing Secreta ry of Wa r." ■ :t.v)m m v.v m K' r "" ' ■^~,iLimm ;;i,,;j||5it» 200 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. I regret to add that the foregoing decision was, through inadveit. ence, overlooked in this office until a few days ago. You will also find herewith the proceedings of the hoard of officora appointed by you the 2d of March last to examine into the claim of Mr. G. "W. Johnson to the site of Fort Cascades. The orders of tU War Department upon these proceeilings are endorsed upon the recoid, I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant General. Brigadier General W. S. Hakney, Com'g Dep't of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T, 3 •.■ii \ I w 71. General Harney to General Scoff. Headquarters Department of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., December 2G, ISoD. Colonel : I have the honor to return the enclosed letter from Lieu- tenant Welcher, referred to by the Secretary of War, for the purpose of ascertaining the value of the improvements on the tract of land recommended by Lieutenant Welcher as an appropriate site for an arsenal at this point. In reply to the Secretary, I desire to inform him that on the 12th of October last I caused a note to be addressed to Lieutenant Welcher, a copy of which is enclosed, stating the cost of the improvements had been three thousand iour hundred and eighty dollars, and for this sura I was willing to relinquish the place to the government. In the mat- ter of lease, until the title has been secured by the government I should not have asked more than the sum I agreed to pay the Hudson Bay Company for their "possessory rights," viz: five dollars ptr year. As those rights have expired, according to a late decision of the State Department, I shall not ask any rent of the government for the occupation of the property should it be determined to accept it. The title to the land is not encumbered by any other claim ; half the land is enclosed by a good cedar post fence, besides the other im- provements that have been })laced upon it. These improvements coc- sist of a good dwelling-house, containing seven rooms and a kitchen, with outhouses, stables for three horses, with covers for vehicles, and a large cistern. The title to this property can be confirmed to the United States sooner than any other piece of property in this viciuitj, The position which wa at first contemplated for the arsenal site has three or four different claimants, including the mission claim, besides being inferior in point of locality to the jdace now under considera- tion. Early in October Lieutenant Welcker was so well satisfied of tlie fit- ness of the i)osition, and his convictions that the department would au- thorize its purchase on the terms jjroposed, that, with ray permission, he took possession of the premises for some weeks, when he suddenly came to nje and said he had received an answer from the colonel ot oiduance to his proposition to procure the land for arsenal purposes, AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 201 ,1 t. • 1 H niiifh answer, he stated, contained several njjections to the pro- le board of officers B into the claim of The orders of the ed upon the recoid. ervant, D, Idjutant General z iiosals, and declined to entertain it Having implicit confidence in LieuteniMit 'elcker's word, I be- lieved the colonel of ordnance he.d formed I: is plans, and that Lieu- tenant Welcker was instructed accordingly, for the latter quitted the . premises and commenced building upon the original site proposed. On receiving the endorsements of the Secretary of War, with that of tlie colonel of ordnance made upon Lieutenant Welcker's letter of the 2(1 of August, I found the colonel of ordnance had been grossly misrep- resented to me by Lieutenant Welcker, and that, instead of entertain- ing the opinion Lieutenant Welcker had expressed to me, he had authorizied a kase to be obtained of the property for a terra of years until the title could be confirmed to the United States. I regret to leport that Lieutenant Welcker never made any offer to lease the property, or spoke of the authority which had been given him to I do so. I called upon Lieutenant Welcker for an explanation of the au- jthority by which he commenced to build, and his answer is not at all sjitislactory. This correspondence is enclosed, and, in connexion hvith the endorsement of Colonel Craig, exposes Lieutenant Welcker to the imimtution of having told a deliberate and wilful i'alsehood to I hi:' commanding officer in the line of his duty. I have directed Lieutenant Welcker to stop building, as he is not [regarding the instructions of the colonel of ordnance in so doing, having coniiiienced two houses out of all proportion to the wants of lliiiiiself and his detachment. I cannot understand the inducement Lieutenant Welcker has had Ito cause him to conduct himself as he has done, and I trust the pecretaiy of War will give this subject an early attention. lam, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier General, Commanding. Colonel S. Cooper, Adjutant General, Washington City, D. C, if! ml satisfied of the fit- lartmeut would au- ith my permission, when he suddenly 'rom the colonel of • arsenal purposes, 71a. Ordnance Office, Washington May SO, 1859. Sir: Yon have been informed verbally in regard to the building of la new arsenal at Vancouver, and to the difficulty of obtaining a valid land satisfactory title to the site. If this difficulty shall continue, and Itlie wants of the service shall in the meantime render it necessary to lenlarge the operations and increase the supplies at the department, jyou are authorized to ruake the following temporary arrangements, lor such of them as you may find to be necessary, before you can go on jvith the permanent buildings, bearing in mind, however, that such larrangemeuts are only for temporary purposes, to be superseded by Itliose of the permanent arsenal, to bo built as soon as possible after Itho title to the site is acl ider of the departnieiil all necessary intoriua-I will also cause placariiil Ih that you mayii]nt,| Igton Territory ' enable them to ••^r Lcurately measurea dmii [with you, who will n lof the road and counm| lails. ^. ., fer i'reely with Captaii furnish the necessary At you should know the miles each diiy,too5-| tiiin which, yotir ])rincipal guides should ho kept at this distance to the front, having perHoiiH with tlieni hy whom they will keef» yoil advised at all times of tlio country over which they are moving. A (.,mv()f the niaoof tho department of Oregon is encloned thai X'm may correct anv errnrs tliat are ohserved. YoU are further instructed to transujit the re<|uired returns, reports, ami al^tirtits to this ofHce, with such fidl advices in rotlerence to the nnc'ress oi the work with which you are charged as will couvcv a iiriiiier understanding of its accomplishment. The general commanding assures you of his confidence in the exocu- tiimof this important duty, to which you have been narnetl hy an apnreciation of the interest and ''xporiunce you have always exercised ill your service on this coast. I am, captain, very re;,K x'.^ullv your obedient servant, A. PLKASONTON, Captain 2d Dragoons, A. A. A. General. Ciiptftln II. D \Vall.th of May, and reached Fort Dalles the same (lay, jliiitit was not until the 4th of June that the command started. It was my intention originally to have followed the Joiin Day Jiiverto its souico, with the view of reaching the waters of the Malheur, llyiiif,' near the base of the Blue mountains, by the most direct route ; llmt receiving information from a reliable source showing the im- Ijimcficahility of constructing e wagon road along that river, and not Iwishiiij,' to delay my work longer than was absolutely necessary, I lletermined to shape my course in a southerly direction from Fort iDiilles for the Des Chutes or Fall river, eross that stream near the liiKiiith of the Warm Spring river, and proceed from thence to the llieiulwaters of the Crooked river. In this I had a twofold object — to supply the deficiency in the map jof the department of Oregon, as most, if not all, of that country was riiiexplored, and to reach the headwateis of Crooked river with as little delay as possible, establish a depot, and divide my command ; pne party to explore and work a road from the depot, by the best and nost direct route, to Fort Dallas, the other to move onward to the illeyof the Great Salt Lake. ''ho greatest difliculty ur"'er which I lab.ired, before starting out, ohtaininj ides ; for even among the Indians none knew .m small portions of the country we were to traverse, and no liile iLau could be found who had any knowledge of the Blue moun- niiis. For confirmation of my information as to the impracticability of Instructing a wagon road along the Jidin Day river, I respectfully Jelor the general commanding to the report of First Lieutenant John Bonnyeastle, 4th intantry. — (See docunient marked "A," ap- ended.) My command consisted of company " il," Ist dragoons. First Lieu- li fi '*^« f-mmmj M i , i i i i i ii i ' ii ii i i i f iWB »i :,f 1! H fa f. '^12 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. tenant Robert Johnston; company "E," Ist dragoons, First Liea. tenant Nelson B. Switzer ; company " H," 4th infantry ; deiauinnen' of company "A," sappers and rainera, Second Lieutenant David c Houston ; Assistant Surgeon John F. Randolph, medical staff; Breve' Second Lieutenant Josej)!! Dixon, topographical engineers; First Lim. tenant John C. Bonnjcastle, 4th infantry, acting assistant coraruissai" of subsistence, and acting assistant quartermaster; Second Lieiitenant Marcus A. Reno, 1st dragoons, acting adjutant; Second Lieutenant Henry M. Robert, attached to engineer detachment, and myself. Total strength, nine officers and one hundred and eighty-four enlisted men The mounted men were armed with Sharpe's carbines, sabres anj Colt's revolveiB ; the footmen with the new rifle-musket, and the new rifle witli the elevating siglit — all excellent weapons ; the mounted men, however, carrying more arms than the nature of the service re- 1 quired, being an unnecessary weight to the horse and rider. Tlie topography of the country and itinerary of the route, showiD" the obstacles met with, daily distances, &c., as well as the barotnetry ])rofiles, are fully shown in Lieutenant Dixon's map and memoir ami in the report of Lieutenant Houston, marked " B," appended. The dragoon horses numbered one hundred and sixteen; and in the quartermaster's department there were thirty-eight horses, three hun- dred and forty-four mules, one hundred and twenty- one oxen, thirty I wagons, one ambulance, one travelling forge, one hundred and tliirtv- 1 two Mexican })ack-f^addles, (a])CMejo,) and seventy- five of the old pattern I cross-tree pack-saddles. In the commissary's department, supplies I (including sixty head of beef cattle) ibr three hundred and ninetetcl persona were furnished tor one hundred and twenty days. I The dragoon horses were in fine condition for the trip, andtliol mules generally good ; some of those received by water from CalitbrJ nia were too much enfeebled and broken down, before starting out, to I have been sent on the expedition. The Mexican aperejo is the udIvI ])ack-saddle that should ever be placed on the back of a mule; for- 1 tunately we were well supplied with these, and they did excellent str- 1 vice during the whole trip ; but the ordinary crot.s-tree pack-sadJlel did not answer, notwithstanding every precaution was used to saw I the backs ot the pack animals. I Our prejjarations being complete, the command left Fort Dallesoni the 4th of June, taking up its line of niarch in a southerly directioii,! and in the atternoon reached the eight-n)ile creek, where weencampeJl for the night. I Lett camp early the next morning, and i)assed over a rolling countrvB t(j the tittein-niile creek, a cool f-tream of running water, where weB found several thrilty iiirniers established, witii quantities of stoiiB grazing about on the neighboring hills.* At this camp we i'ounJaaB abundance of wood, water, and grass, the three indispensable re-B quisites for the command. B °A8 : II evidence of uhht GreRon is as a Block luifine country, I ^\ve tlio follow ins rwdtflB from II iHiiiier living on tlic lificiii mil" creek : " In the npiiny of Irtol I purt'liiisi'ilu(*H f.ir wliii'li I |iiii(J fifty (ioIlHr."; mImcc ilien I liiive koM fmr linMilred anil rweiityiiiKMlullarjvriiKliB (if htock. liMVe on liHml nine cowsiiml c«Im's urui eiijlir yeHilin^jH, viiliied iit seven hiiiidrfJ atJH eigiiiy duiiara, aii iue ineieuHe frulu i)int cuw v'mcv k\w liae beeD iu iiij posgcsiiui!.' i i ipous ; the mounted AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 213 Wc moved on the next morning at six a. m., travelling over a pretty rrood road, through a rolling country, until our approach to the valley of the Tych. In descending to this valley we passed down a very steep liil' *"'' a^'f>ut two thousand feet to the Tych river, a cool stream of running water, fifty yards wide and, thirty inches deep at the ford. We encamped in the Tych valley, where we found plenty of wood, witer and grass. This valley is about twenty miles long and from south iork Having lelt Fort Dalles on the 4th June, and not arriving at my present camp until the 27th, I deemed it a proper point to disencumber myselt from the ox train and divide my command. Accordingly, on the 1st of July, the command being properly an- portioned, and everything in readiness, I started with my party, con- sisting of eighty-five dragoons. Lieutenant Sweitzir conimariilinff' twenty- seven infantry, and eleven of the sappers and miners, Lieli- tenant M. A. Ileno, 1st dragoons, acting assistant commissary of sub- sistence and acting assistant quartermaster. Lieutenant John C. Bonnycastle, 4th infantry, was left in command of rhe depot and ])arty to exi)lore the route and work the road back to the Columbia river. For my instructions to Lieutenant Bonnv- castile, and his report in relerence to tiieir execution. I have already referred to the document marked " A," ai)pended. From this report it v;ill bo seen that an excellent route has been marked out from tlie lieadwaters of Crooked river to the Columbia, near Fort Dalles. In following a southerly course from Camp Division we reach Three Pine creek, a stream of cool running water surrounded by excellent grass. Tliere are three large pine trees in the elbow of this creek; hence its name. A good road was passed over to our next camp on the south fork of Ciooked river; we here found but little feed for our animals, and the water was warm, possessing alkaline {iroperties. Crooked rirer runs over such an extent of country, and is so little protected from the rays of the sun tliat its waters are quite warm, besides being impregnated with alkali. From the south branch of Crooked river to Buck creek our course lay through a barren, sage-brush valley, about thirty-five miles in length, and twelve in bieadth, the surface in many places covered with rtlkuli, i\nd the soil generally loose and dusty. We named this Whirlwind valley, from tlie singular appearance constantly presented by the wind in carrying immense columns of dust to a great lR'i;,'ht; "we found good water and grass at our camp on liuck creek. iSecond Lieutenant Francis Mallory, 4th infantry, havini,' juinod yesterday, relieved Lieutenant Ileno in the duties of adjutant to the command. On the 4tli of July we travelled on to a round lake, where we found grass for our animals, but the wat'.'r not good, being ccdored, and tastiuyc somewhat of the rashes with which the lake is filled. Ve AFFAIRS IS OREGON. 217 nap is over the Ijesj led with iiutritioi!'! Biiient distances fur . streams and their I willowH ; some of ; good fuel, and tie be ad joinine; valley, orth and the other til is valley, we en- into tlie8ontli fork, not arrivinlue mountains. [The ctreara on which we encamped is sluggish, about twenty yards pviile, and ([uite deep, with miry banks. It differed in appearance so much from the several branches of the Malheur subsequently crossed Itbai I atu fully impressed with the belief that this stream is not the [Malheur, hut that it is a slough emi)tying into a cliain of lakes and Imorasses in sight from our eubsequent camps, but many miles to |tbo southward. The grass being so fine at this eomp, and the crossings re(|uiring Iconsidei able labor, our departure was deferred one day to enalde the |eni;ineers toiierform this work, and to survey the surrounding country, las\veap[icar to be a[)proaching the gap in the Blue mountains through iwhich we ai'e to pass. The next uiurniiig we passed up the stream for three miles to the lcn>Mng, and over tiie pontoon l)ridge skilfully constructed by the lengiueers on a branch of the main stream. After crossing the bridge be command passed on for three miles to the main branch of the ^auie sluggish stream, where the banks had to be cut down and filled Kii with brush before tlie river could Ite iittemi)ted. We passed tlio lauimuljj and wagitns over the ford, but it was necessary to put the ■ • 3 :H '?i^' L";. ■i*'**' '' 218 AFFAIRS IX OREGON. ,' I pontoons in rcqulHition again for tlie construction of another brid»e over whicli to pass the ammunition and subsistence stores, the water being too deep i'or the park animals to cross with their cargoes. From this crossing, our direction was east by north until we reached a small stream flowing directly from the Blue mountains and near their base. Our camp was then situated in a perfectiv level and beautifnl valley, extending from the foot of the Blue moun- tains as far as the eye can reach north and south, and from m to ten miles west, covered with luxuriant grass four or five feet in heiglit. We are now in what Fremont calls the " Big Basin," ex- tending seventy miles north and south and forty miles east and west sluit ill on every side by lofty mountains; those lying south kin- 8now-caj)ped; those to the north rugged and precipitous, with the depression in the ridge five or six miles to the southward and east- ward. After a careful examination of this ridge, we determined tlie next morning to proceed tea mountain stream five miles from the last, and almost immediately opposite the lowest point in the moun- tains. On Tuesday, the 12th of July, Ave commenced the passage of the Blue mountains ; our first day's travel being over a good road, liavinc a gentle ascent, until we encamped on a running stream lying in a fiuall canon, where we had good feed lor our animals and au abun- dance of wood and water. At tlie last three camps we found an abundance of small game, such as curlew, grouse, and sage hens ; many of these were taken anJ found excellent for the table. We were compelled to double our teams the next morning toascenJ a hill just in front at us ; after this the road was good during the day's march. Our camp in the evening was on a branch of the Md- heur river, running through a pretty valley a mile in width. Findiii" it impossible to Ibllow the chasms made by the Malheur, as it brents its way circuitously through the mountains, the banks being in manv places a thousand or more feet in depth and almost perpendicular, we were obliged to bear olf to the northward and travel over a stony road, which can be improved by removing the stones at small expense and labor. Our next move was to anotlier branch of the Malheur, a swift, pebbly- bottomed stream of pure cold water, where we fcund an abun- dant growth of berries ; among them may be enumerated too kinds of currants, yellow and dark ; gooseberry, service-berry, andthewilJ gra|)e of Oregon. These berries are juicy and well flavored, and are much sought after by tlie Indians. I was somewhat disappointed in our route, as I expected to find it better than it really is. A wagon road cannot be constructed over ii chain of mountains, such as these before us, without having hills to pull over ; all the science of the engineer cannot change the general leatures ot the country. It is true the scientific labors of the engi- neer will materially improve the route, making it better than many of the roads in Peiinsylvania over which teaming in done every day, The next day's inarch was over a stony and rough road with a tew sharp hills, compelling us to double our teams; the next and Lwt j AFFAIKS IN OREGON. 219 I of another bridsj ice stores, tho water their cargoes. by north until we he Blue mountains mted in a perfeciiy t of the Bhie moiin- th, and irorn six to four or five feet in 3 *; Big Basin," ex- miles east and west, 3 lying south hAw' )recipitoU8, with the southward and east- !, we determined the five miles from the t point in the moun- id the passage of the :a good road, having ig stream lying in a nimals and au abun- .ance of small game. these were taken iinJ 3Xt morning to ascend was good during the 1 a branch of the JLil- le in width. Finding alheur, as it brenb janks being in many I ost perpendicular, we travel over a stony ones at small expense I le Malheur, a swift, re we fcund an abun- numerated too kinds | e- berry, and thewik ell flavored, and are I expected to find )e constructed over a lout having hills to t change the general labors of the engi- it better than many Ig in done every day. ;)ugh road with a tew » ; the next and List I dftv in t^6 mountains was good travelling until we reached the main Malhenr, lyinf? east of the chain of mountains. The whole distance across this pass is one hundred and one miles — forty-four and a half miles may in truth be called a bad road, requiring the labor ot a couple of liiindied men for one season to put it in order ; the balance, fifty- six and a half miles, is a good natural road, requiring very little impnn-ement. As it turned out, our selection in the pass was indu- bitiihly the best that could have been made ; for on coming out on the east side of the mountains we perceived that had we attempted tho jinjjsage further south we should have had the Owyhee and Goose Creek mountains also to cross, and probably been led into an inter- minable labyrinth. After reaching the canon between the Blue and Owvhee mountains, along which the Malheur river runs, we were forced to keep down the river before we could get round the northern end of the Owyhee range and on our proper course. While encamped on the Malheur, I detached the topographical officer to explore the canon through which the Malheur runs, with the view of ascertaining its jiracticability for wagons. Lieutenant Dixon wa.s absent three days, having had a difficult trip, most of the time on foot, and reports the cafion impassable Ibr wagons. From the Malheur we passed over to the Owyhee river, and found excellent grazing — the river being fordable at all points, water sweet ana pure. Fort Boisee, an old trading post of the Hudson's Bay Company, was situated between the Owyhee and Malheur rivers, on the north side of Snake river ; the fort was abandoned in 1855, in consequence of the Indian diilioulties — nothing now remaining but the adobe walls of the main building. We were now in the valley of Snake river ; but before leaving the Owyhee I despatched Mr. Schall, the guide, with an escort of dra- goons, to explore the country behind the Owyhee and Ooose Creek mountains for a wagon road. Mr. Schall was instructed to follow the general direction of Snake River valley, but thirty or forty miles fouth of it ; he joined the command after an absence of nineteen days, ri'jiorting the country abundantly su])plied with wood, water, and grass of the finest kind — the scenery picturesque and beautilul, and that an excellent wagon road can be constructed, running al- most parallel with the i)resent one in Snake Kiver valley, but through a much better country. This route, from the Owyhee to 8wainp creek, will require the labor of a command one season to put it in order. We tbund the valley of Snake river, from the Owyhee to Swarup creek, a dusty, desolate country, coverid with the sombre-looking sage brush. The valley is about two hundred and twenty miles lung, width varying from a half to two miles. There is not much, if any, of the land valuable for agricultural pirpo.ses ; it is vvitlu)ut timher, the fringe of willow and the occasional cotton-wood not de- serving the name. It is, however, on the direct line of coiumunica- tion between the South Pass of the llocky mountains and Oregon ; the road i)assing through the valley and over a level country lor a large part of the distance between the points named. It is by no meauH an inviting couut.'-y to travel over. Still the road is level I! « ^1| ry TCre»jWi"'e the route })assed over by us, thence to Camp Floyd, asso iruicli has already been written on the subject. Suflice it to say th;it 1 have never passed over a better road, and that to the ferry on Hear river the grays and water iu bullicicnt for emigration. Alter crossing' AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 221 li not alinnilanf, ij I. 1 MM cleiirly vi ike rivor, a stream in be II iivi tinted hj river, for one Inui. land truiisporfatiiri lie from the ncarcity ^tci\, a brancli from , steamboat. iuivi;;a- abotit four Imnduil ts construction, \vii[ the Atlantic States, road can he floated ise of buililing tlie id at raeetin,!:^ Brevet ttery ; we cncanipKl rning following tonic emigration, and con- ircek. I gave tliem lieru from the hostile !ng much resorted to ed the Indians were mi<;rants ; the majnr )ndition. 1 relieved titute to be supplied recruit my animals of the 4 til intiintry, ick to Swani[) creek, hie, and to nuikeii ill. The camp was examined by Lieu- on Haft creek, witli •oitzer,to explore tlie K the route to Salt ey level, the valley my wagons v,-cre tlie route as easy and s. im 8alt lake to Cali- unnecessary forme Camp Floyd, as ?o ^uflice it to say tliat to the ferry on Bt'ar ion. Alter crossing the ft'iry the road paRses tlirougb the Mormon towns of Box Elder, Omlen City, and the City of the (ireat Salt Lake, and across the River JoVliiii to Camp Floyd ; the distance from the ferry to the camp being oueliundred and twelve miles. _ Salt Lake valley is irrigated in every direction by streaniH led from tlie adjacent Wahaatcb mountains; as tlie valley east of the lake is leirlvall under cultivation, jiastuiage has to be hired for animals, tliere being no vacant grazing lands. Jly detachment arrived at Camp Fl Jly detacliment arrived at tjamp Floyd on the lOtli, and remained there until the 20th of August, drawing «uoh 8Uj)plies as wo were ile- iieient in for the return trij) to the Columbia river. I rejiorted to Brigadier General Johnston, commanding department of Utah, in ftccoidaiice with my instructions, and the general extended to mc cverv facility for the prosecution of my labors. Oil the 2i)tli of August I left Camp Floyd witb the necessary sup- plifs, and reached Major Lynde's camp, on Bear river, on the 'iOth. The ox tniins moving slowly, and fearing that I might be caught east of the Blue mountains beyond the 1st of October, 1 applied to Major Lynde for mule teams to transport supplies to my depot on Swamp creek. Major Lynde kindly consented to loan me twelve six- mule teams, detailing part of a company of dragoons, under Lieutenant ][. 1). Livingston, 2d dragoons, to accompany me and return as an escort to the wagon train. This service was handsomely jierformed bv Lieutenant Livingston, the train reaching my depot on the 31st of Aii^'iist, where I found that all had been conducted by Lieutenant 31allury during ray absence to my entire satisfaction, and ibr the best interests of the service. The morning of the 3d of September being bright and beautiful, and the emigration having all ])assed, we struck our tents and took up the lin. of march for Fort Boisee. The route along Snake river to that point having already been described, it will only be necessary for me to add that we were compelled, from the large emigration that had passed over the road, to drive some distance up the stream for grass, and to use several islands in Snake river, where the animals found good grazing. My return trip was slow, baiting several times to allow the emi- grants to keep up witb the command. On the Owyhee river 1 waited nine days, sending back Lieutenant Svveitzer with a mounted com- mand and spare animals to assist several fainilios who were behind us in distress. Three families, consisting of seven men, three women, and fifteen children, were fbund in a very destitute condition, witluuit food (jr the means of transj)ortatioii. They were supi)lied with both, and, but for this timely assistance, they must all have inevitably perished. Much suffering has been spared those crossing the plains by the presence of my command on Snake river, by protecting tliem from the hostile Indians and in supjtlying provisions and transportation to those families who were destitute. Many of the emigrants of last summer started from the Missouri fnmtier under the impression that they could renew their supi)lies at Fort Hall and again at Boiaee; but, as these posts were abandoned M B^-cife»*^x-^' 'mi^ P 222 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. ^ ■ ti'. i 4 lonj; since, thpy found themselvcH hundreds of miles from relief jna stiirviiij^ condition. I trust that my orders to furnish 8uppli(>H t', these distressed and sufferinjij people will meet with the iipproviil of tiie (general comninndins and tiie tn the* (vimp on Crookeil river, at which the iNiiiiinuiid of (wiptain WuIUmi wuh ilividod. Oil the lii'tli "*■ .Jiiiii) IrtHt I received from Capfiiiii WuUon the fol- bwiug iiistructiooH, viz: llKAlXJl'AUTKUS WaiION liOAD EXI'KUITIO.V, Camp near t/w. forks of Cidoknl rioer, June 2'.), 18.V.). Sir: Urtvin<^ iirrivod with mycounnand hl IIiIh place, near tiio forks of iVookt'd liver, it hocomeH necesHiiry tor nio t(» divide the column, iiiirt tikiii;,' the right or Houth hniiieii of the river towards Salt lake, iimler my toiiiiuaiid, and the bahiuce the left or north hruiich towards Flirt Uiiili's. Tlmt iKirtion (tf the command returning on tlu! Columbia river will k'Uiuler your onlers, and alter making tiie preliminary Hurveya over the (ieveriil Indian trails leading across the spurot the Blue mountains inthe (liroction of 'SScholl's Butte," you will select the .-hortest and best for the wagon road to Fort Dalles. From ti\e best Indian information, the most direct route from the "CamiiH [iniii'ie," on the lei't or north branch of Crooked river, is over the " Wlmptaplas,'' a stream emptying into the John Day ; from thence to the " Chopomgaz," another stream llowing into the " John I Day," iind Iroin thence to " Scholl's Butte," within two miles of the 'John Day" river. From tliat butto to the Des Chutes bridge the country has been i explored, and was found perfectly practicable for wagons. The route described by these instructions and the accompanying map will lead you in a northwesterly direction from your depot to the Diilles, and it is desirable that this course be pursued with as little |devhitioii as the mountainous country will admit. It is important that your success in getting across to " Scholl's iBiitte' be coiiuuunicated to me. You will, therefore, write me by [wry express messenger the results of your enterprise. If no mail [carrier is sent to me, Indians must be hireil to eonve}' the intelligence. Your HunM!,ss will enable me to ex{)lore the country east of the Blue lEoimtaiiis and letiirn to the Columbia river by a ditferent route than [the oiic already pa^siul over. I am cuMviiia'd tliat this part of tlie route could not be left in better liiaiids, 1111(1 tliat it' a road can be made along the route proposed, you vill not <;o to the Dalles by any other. llopill^' that you may have every success and a pleasant time, I |ie:iiuin, verv res[)ecirully, your obedient servant, H. D. WALLKN, Copt. \tk Infunfri/, commanding }l'\i'jon Itoad Expi'dilion. First Lieutenant John C. Bonnycastle, 4/!/i Infantry. At daylight, on July 1, Lieutenant Robert Johnston, 1st dra- iions, lett, my camp to explore the route indicated in the above Instructions, viz: the "Chopomgaz" and " Whaptaplas" rivers, hav- ing received iVoiu me the following iuKtructiuns, viz : u. Ex. Doc. G5- -15 — r ~ |jijjHiwtir«n).attgiy ~ '^auassss^ssmOL 226 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. m^ ■ } '1 JJ i 'ir , 1-1 ■ ;. You will proceed on to-day with fifteen men of your compaDy )anied by tlie Indian, Wiiitka, and Mr. Samuel Johnston' Camp Salt Lake, Wagon Road Expeditioiv, Canon Crooked river, July 1, 1359 Sir: accompt: wajD^on-master, all rationed for ten days, to examine the country lietween this ])oint and the stream down on " Scholl's"' map as the " Chopomgaz" river, with, reference to the practicability of passing wagons over it. Your course, according to the map above referred to" will be west of north, leaving the valley of Crooked river at or near the point at which a small stream enters that river just above 1 he caiion, following up that stream as long as, in your judgment the road continues good for wagons, unless at some point a better route shall present itself. Arrived near or at the head of this stream you will cross the ridge to the " Chopomgaz," and if the route aptiears good for wagons, follow down that river till you find an easy route to the westward towards " SchoU's Butte." These instructions are given thus explicitly as embodying the dircc. tions given by the officer in charge of the wagon road exjiedition (Captain Wallen, 4th infantry,) but you are expected to exercise your own judgment in the reconnoissance of the country ; and siiouldi better or a good and more direct route offer, you will, if jiossihle I explore that and decide between the two. Should you find t lie route indicated bad or ira})racticable, and if your supply of pruvisions war- rant it, it is highly desirable that you pass from the " Cliopouicaz' river eastward to the " Whaptaplas river," and up tliat stream, comini' | over to the " Camas prairie," and thence back to this camp. You will endeavor to take such notes of the country a.^ will enable you to make a correct map of the country over which you pass, .i rough sketch, made, I believe, from Indian reports, of the route pro- posed for you is herewith enclosed. I am, sir, very respectfullv, your obedient servant, _ JOILN C. 150NNYCA8TLE, First Lieutenord 4th Ivjaniry^ CumviamUnij. First Lieutenant Rouert Joiinstox, lit regiment Urayoons, Ctmmanding troop " //. ' On the 10th of July Lieutenant Johnston returned tomyciimpai made the following report, viz : Camp on " Lepuation" Creek, Jidy C, 1859, Sir: In compliance with your instructions of the Ist instant, I pr- ceeded to make an examination of tlie country to the wu^t ot iinriii from this point, with a view of finding a practicable wagon ruadtoa butte known as '• Scholl's Butte." L'l compliance witii your instructions, I crossed " Croukoil rivor'aij a point about three miles from camp, and moved up a small trilniJar/l thereof which enters it from the northeast about one mile, when II found it caiioned, aud 1 could not follow it further. I then crosseJ AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 227 iirncd to my ciinip ! I lU'SieiHled the hill to the west, and followed a direction very littlo north of w^-'st for about three miles, when I came in sight of the timber on the top of the spur of the Blue mountains, which I had to cross. following a direction of about twenty degrees west of north, I ascended ■iiiioutitiuu and reached the top at a distance of about ten miles from Ciuup. I crossed it in a direction north of west on to the headwaters nt Olio of the tributaries of the " Whaptaplas" in about four miles. I iollowed this stream down in a direction about north for five miles, iiul entered the large " Camus i)rairie," which is in dimensions about live miles east and west and about tliree miles north and south. Sev- t.iiil siuall streams run through it to the east, and from the " Whap- tiilihis. Crossing this prairie, I ascended one of these tributaries about north fyr fuiu' miles, when I crossed the last range of mountains and struck till' headwaters of "Strawberry creek." 1 followed down this creek abuiit tea miles, to where it leaves the timber ; here it turns to the eastward and runs about northeast into the " John Day" river, at a poiutuorth of tlie mouth of the " Whaptaplas." The '' Whaptaplas" enters the "John Day" about twenty miles east of this point, and here 1 Ibund the headwaters of the " Chopomgaz," which river I found ran due west for twelve miles, when it gradually bends to the north catid enters the " John Day" directly from the south. Thu road Ibllows along the north bank of the river (Chopomgaz) for nine miles, when it ascends a hill, and, f )llowing in a parallel direction to the river, strikes it again at a distance of three miles. Between these two points the trail marked on the map furnished me, from the Camas prairie on Crooked river, via the " \Vhaptai)las," to the "Chopomgaz" river, comes in. From this point, where tlie trail strikes the river the second time, its direction is north of west across the hend, when it crosses it about one and n half miles from its mouth. A wagon road could be made from Crooked river to this j)oint, with a great deal of labor at the "Chopomgaz." It is impossible to carry wagons further. The im[)assable hills on the "John Day" river are here connected with the K[>ur of the Blue mountains by a cliain of Vulcanic liills, over which it is impossible! to take wagons, and which cannot be turned in any direction. An Indian trail runs over these hills to the mouth of " Tygh creek." 1 followed it for some three or lour niik'S. Its direction was nortlieast across a point of hills to the "John Day" river, theiice along the bank of the river for a few hundred yards, and thence across steep, rocky points, wiien the river Unds oil' to the north and follows on to the west. At this i)oint a small tributary of the " John Day" enters from the south and is the last water for a day's ride. 1 judge it to be about one hundred miles frtun the "Chopomgaz" to tlic mouth of the " Tygh," and about I'orty miles is over these hills. The Luake Indian avIio accompanied the guide furnished me iire)ved ot great service, as tlr.^ guide was perfectly ignorant of the country. The information he (the Luake Indian) gave me of the country before 1 passe! over it proved to be correct. 1 have therefore reported on lii : *i MMHMMIMHMMM Mm u l^tii •vll^ 2| 228 AFFAIRS IN OREGOX, tlio country to tlie west of the crossing of the " Chopomgaz" ^i.!, every confidence of its tnitli fulness. I am, sir, very respectiully, your obedient servant, EOBT. JOHNSTON, First Lieutenant of let Dramom First Lieutenont J. C. Bonnycastle, 4th Jtegiment of Infantry, Commanding, Finding from the above report of Lieutenant Johnston that fiie route along the "Chopomgaz" and the " Whaptaplas " stream? by the Jolin Day river, was impracticable, after waiting in caiiii' one day to rest the animals that had been out with Lieutenant Juhn- ston, 1 moved riiy train westward over the same road over which tlie command of Captain Wallen had passed in going out, hoping froa explorations to the north of that road to find some practicable xo\i\> over the sjjur of the Blue mountains, which, enabling me to pass t'. the westward of the "volcanic hills" referred to by Lieutenant Johnston as barring further jjrogress down the " Jolin Day" than the mouth of the " Cliopomgaz," should enable me to strike the Julm Day further down and thus cut off more distance. In this, however, I was disappointed, the long high hills of tie spur of the Blue mountains offering no opening through which I might pass ; so 1 reluctantly continued on the same road until havini' readied the gap througli which we passed this spur on the outi°r jiiurney. I left the train encamped with excellent and abundant grass and water, and accomi)anied by Wagon-Master Johnson, a man of good, sound, jiractical sense, and of experience in road-making, and six dragoons, 1 took the left branch of the stream flowing through this little valley, and, following it up as far as practicable for wagons, crossed the spur with but little difficulty, and during the succeeding six days I rode over that portion of the country lying between John Day river and my camp, finding the whole of it broken by high. bare liills mostly, and nowhere any road over which it would be ad- visable to bring wagons. It is true that 1 could have passed the wagons over this country, but the hills were so long and so nuraeioii< that it was far preterable to go over tlie same road which we l(illo\vt! in coming out. Having ascertained by actual examination that no bettor road could be found than the one the train was then on. I sen! back and had it move on to Trout creek, wliich enabled me to coutiniie my search a couple of days longer. On the arrival of the train at Trout creek, 1 having ascertained that the best route lay over tlie liills down which we had come into Tiuut Creek valley, and tlien bore !o the right of the old road, I moved on the next day over this hill to the next water, and thence along a broad ravine, through which ran a ttream of line water, on to a broad and deep Favino, wliich, after turning in several directions, had its mouth at the " John Day' river. About eight miles north of this another deep and broad ravine intersected the country, and, going in the opposite direction, had its nuiutli at the Dts Chutes river. The heads of tliese two ra- vines are divided by a low ridge, which, from the numerous ravines intersecting the country, it was not easy to discover at first, but it was AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 220 ' Chopomgaz" wii), 'ant, JOHNSTON, nt of \st Dragoon. t Johnston that ilie laptaplas" streams, er waiting in camp X\\ Lieutenant Juhn- road over which tie ing out, hoping lro;n me practicable roiii? ,hling me to pass to \ to by Lieiitenan: ''John Day" tlian aio to Btrike the John ig high hills of tie ag through which I me road until havini' i spur on the outer it and abundant grasj ;' Johnson, a man ot in road-making, and am flowing thioujjh acticable i'or wagons, uring the succeeding lying between John it broken by high, lich it would bead- lid h.ave passed the )ng and so numeroii! d which we iidlowtd xaniination that no was then on. I sent ibled me to continue •ival of the train at .ite lay over the liills , and then bore !o day over thin hill ine, through which deep ravine, which, it the "John Day" er deep and broad ; opposite direction, Is of tliese two ra- e numerous ravines jr at first, but it was i^^(T (his ridge that the proper road ran, and having found it there ivnsno further trouble in taking the train into the Des Chutes bridge, though, from want of a guide who knew where to find water, I was iorced to lose a large portion of one day and to make a much longer march on the next than was my wish. I found throughout my return plenty of "bunch " grass and gon- ^fu]ly good water, always sufficient for my large train, and the road ^lV(n• which the train passed I regard a good one, having but two hills ,,f anv difficulty, the one at ''Trout creek," the other at Crooked River cafion. The distance passed over by my train in returning does not differ Kiaterially from that passed over by tl\o command in going out ; but vhile the most difficult pcu'tion of the road in going out lay between the Dalles and Trout creek, on my road returning that portion offers onh' the hill at Trout creek as a difficulty. the return of my command with seventeen ox wagons and somo jjx-mule teams from the point on " Crooked river " at which I sepa- rated from the main command, into Fort Dalles, occupied only twelve travt-lling days, and I am satisfied that had the route been known hel'iirehand as to watering places, grass, &c., I should have brought tlie train in easily to the Dalles in ten days, which would have given mean average of seventeen miles^ or a little more, to the day, which [act ill itself suffices to demonstrate the character of the road. Enclosed I offer a map which I have made of the country examined and passed over, which I believe to be, in the main, correct, and from an ins]iection of which it is believed that a better idea can be had of tne ditficulties in the way of making a wagon road up to the banks (it the J'din Day river, or in fact anywhere except along the route actually travelled, than from any description of the country which I might be able to give. 1 am, sir, verv respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN C. BONNYCASTLE, Lieutenant ith Infantry. Captain A. A. Pluasonton, Avlhig Assistant Adjiitant dencraJ, Fort Vancouver, W. T. U c. Four Dalles, Oukgon, December 3, 1859 Cai'Taix: 1 have the luuior to submit herewith my map and rej .irt ' rtf the exploration of the (Jreat Snake river, for the purpose of finding a more practicable and better adapted road for wagons than the one tiiu- existing along Snake river to the (1 reat Salt T^ake valley. Iteterriiig you to the accompanying map, it will give at a glance, in detail, a true and correct idea of the country I traversed. As I hiid 111) instruments to take observations, there will be somo ditlerence ! ::i rt'u'ard tn the correctness of my camp, as laid down on the map. 1 left the tuonth of the Owyhee river July 22, about six miles b^'low III BWlliBllMli **"**MMMII 1 1 M 230 AFFAIRS IN OREGOX. Fort Eoiseo. Durinfij the first few days I had a somewhat tedinr, journey, travelling mostly in close proximity to the river, crossii.. and recrofsing the stream many times each day. Tliis river flows f, ^ thirty miles in a close and narrow defile, through a solid field o' cnrions shaped lava numntains. Sometimes tlie hlutrs were hunilM'^ of i'eet from the watei's edge Oftentimes these hlulfs appeared to C solid fields of red chalk and zinohe. Only hy the greatest careof'tlit animals my party arrived safely in ahout forty-five miles from tl,e mouth of the river, at its first trihutary. It is a small rivulet of cold clear water, tumhling down a narrow stony canon from the east. I numher of Snake Indians, Avith their wives and children, who h\\ first run up the steep hlufFs at our sudden appearance, hut Im,] however, socm returned, gave me much good information. Game i* no donht in abundance in this neighborhood, as their chief subsiisteiic' is dried venison, of which they had an abundance. July 20. — 1 ascended a narrow gorge, following a well-beaten Indian trail. The landscape changed suddenly as by magic. Tlie sombre color of the hills and bluffs, barren the entire distance I traversed tr; date, changed suddenly to a most cheerful green ; some of the fine!-: flowers I noticed along the trail, which led me after only two hours' ride to the sum.nit. The ascent was gradual. A most lovely picture presented itself. The countr}' was covered with all hues of flower<. Gra.s in abundance; timber also. A beautiful but rmall lake Im] close below me in the bright morning sun, and then a level plain beyond as far as the eye could see. Towards South Pass was a liii;!! range covered with heavy timber, and a little scattered snow could l-e seen towards south. Another higher range of mountains due east, covered with snow, lost itself in the far-off distance. Towards noon! crossing previously rich bottom land and a few small rivulets, I on camped in a level valley of laige extension, close to a small brouk, Prairie chickens and sage hens were in abundance here. Signs of a late Indian camp, left in haste, was in close proximity. A few Indiac boys, wlio belonged to the camp at the Owyhee river, returned na horseback, close by our camj), having no doubt brought the news of cur arrival throughout the valley beyond. The course to-day was southeast. Juh/ "iV. — The country to-day is still more favorable for extensive settlements ; two large creeks flowing towards Lake Ella I crosseJ, The soil of these broad valleys is excellent. The Indian trail ran due south, and various attempts to cross the rocky ridge towards cast was fruitless. Six miles from camp I arrived at a fine creek, and for miles further my party followed up a level valley to tiie head of it? waters. Eight miles more, traversing a gold-bearing country, 1 crosstd another large creek. '^I'lie qmirtz boulders were scattered all around ; they are of the ])urest white, and of numerous sizes. Pass- ing over a low divide to another creek there are high bluffs of ,«o!iil quaitz along a well-beaten Indian trail. To Kearney river is four miles. This stream jjasses thiough a rich and broad valley. Only dense wilk)w biL^hes giow along its banks. The rolling cmintry around abounds in most excellent ])asturage. Pea vines, clover, ami t'motliv cover the rich soil. A liiL'h mountain ranue. with its .«iio«- AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 231 a somewhat tcdi,,!-,, to the river, cross;,,,. Tliis river ilows C ougli a solid field ,'; hlufFs were hundr,,^ hi lifts apijoared to C le greatest care of tlit ,--five miles from tlie i small rivulet of cold, )n from the ciigt. .'( Ill children, who liaj appearance, hut Im,!. ifurrnatiun. Game is their chief subisteiife :e. ? a well-heaten Imlian _ n»agic. The sombre istance I travereedto n ; some of the fines; after only two hours A most lovely picture th all hues of flower^, 1 hut f.mall lake Ui \n\ then a level plain knith Pass was a liigli mattered snow conldlw | ' mountains due e;ist, ince. Towards noon. small rivulets, 1 en- )se to a small brook, nee here. Signs of s| imity, A few hidiac ee river, returned o:i hrought the news of he course to-day wa? ivorahle for extensive Lake Ella I crosseJ. ? Indian trail ran duo (li^e towards cast was j I line creek, and for,: ey to the head of it> j 1-hearing country, I rs were scattered nil iiiiierous sizes. Piiss- high hluffs of soliil \earney river is four hroad valley. O.'ily The rolling cmintry 'ea vines, clover, ami autre, with its snow- covered peaks, lay toward south, its hase only two hundred yards distant from camp. The river changed here its course and runs duo east- ,/(('(/ "jS. — To day I attempted to keep a true southeast coarse, hut was forced on account of high, rolling hills to retrace my steps towards the river. The stream runs here between very high precipices ; it aboutuls in large salmon ; wild berries of all description grow here in ftlmndance. Towards the north is an extensive range of mountains, fl'ith some snow peaks and plenty of timber. My two packers, adjust- inff a pack which had got loosened, were attacked l)y two Indians on the crossing of a creek, and post haste the pack mules driven at a rapid iiace ; they arrived quite excited in carap. Tho Indian trail which I had left iti the morning I followed here for eight mih's and a half, crossing Viirinus small and large creeks with rapid courses, and cro-tsed the divide between two fine str^ nis. Tlie river fl)vving through this divide, which extends on the opposite side, due south, jjasses through an enormous narrow and rocky gorge, which presients a very pictur- e.sijiie appearance. I estimate the height of the bluff at about five hun- dred feet. Jtthj 21). — All animals last night were very unquiet.' We heard human voices, also the neighing of horses, opposite tiie creek, beyond the willov.-H. About the time of breaking up cami), an Indian on h )rse- bick, i[uite fantastically dressed, cliarged along the brink of a hill in rliise proximity, yelling and .swinging his red blanket and rifle ; he soon (lisa[)peared in the distance, when I rode boldly up to his position. Wefollo'.ved in liis footsteps nearly tlie entire day, occasionally having ai'limpse of him two or three miles ahead, talking aloud, no doubt re- puting through the valley around our arrival. In eleven miles from the previous camp I arrived at the first s[)rings of Voedney river, by a griiliud iisecnt. To tlie west, extending from north to south, a high rocky mountain preci|tiee, four or five miles in length ; there are also a few more springs in this high flat, the waters running in the oppo- site (southern) direction, and are no doubt the headwaters of another tributary of the Owyhee river. This little stream passes through a narrow canon, covered with ilense underbrush, and heavy cottonwoocl and po[)lar. Several Indian trails led through the pass, which I named "Harney Pass." To avoid any collision with the treacherous Indians in the narrow defile, 1 ascended gradually a high hill, from which summit I had a most excellent view. Towards south, a broad and ex- tensive valley stretches far away from north to south ; in a western direction, and covered with heavy pine wood, ran a high mountain range; towards east, a dreary and desolate volcanic country extended, which, at various intervals, pr.>sented high hhuik buttes ; greasewood covers sparingly the neighboring low hills ; from the summit, with gradual descent, a distance of five miles, I arrived at several small creeks, heading towards the high bleak buttes previously mentioned ; distant tluindcr, and ".few rain drops, mingled with hail, forboding ill, and near plenty of wild sage for tire wood, I halted, constructing small willow iiMts lor shelter ; a heavy thunder storm raged for an hour, but by the approach of night it ceased, and with a feeling of security, to have outwitted tlic red bki"a,s who had, no doubt, watched our approach Ui; li>l ''"■ *ti,«mmmmm\kmn^. m' 232 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. \\\ P '■J i w %. throiisli "Harney Pass," we laid down to rest. By dayliglit the next morning, lieing very sanguine tlie rain liad obliterated all Hmtiiviotj I sent an Indian out to see if any of the red men had heen in ouj neighliorhoi'd .since las^t night, and a few moments after hia return leporting that horsemen had crossed and recrossed orir previous day's march, I ordered an early start. Two of the j)ack mules were packed, when suddenly, and witha ytH several Indians on horseback charged toward camp, swinging tlieir spears and rifles ; only one ventured to a distance of one hundred yards. The dragoon horses, happily wtll secured, were trying to stampede, and never did I see quicker time made sadilling and break- ing nj) cam}). The Snake Indian who accompanied me from Foit Dalles did me good service ; after a few words of conversatimhetweea him and our enemies, they ventured nearer, and came into our camp One of these Indians, the spokesman, rode a horse, }>nd had a fine silver- mounted rifle in his ])ossession, which belonged to one of a party of six men who left the Dalles late in October, 1858 ; only one of them survives, and he reported to us in Salt Lake, Avhere he at preRent domiciles ; all his companions had died or starved to death ; he, how- ever, had all the money of the entire company in his possession at the time of his arrival in the valley, and no doubl. there was fonl deal- ing amongst them ; his own statements were contradictory. The In- dians here are larji^e and well made. A few trifling presents with blankets and tobacco took them by surprise, and after giving me a general idea of the country, 1 left them in our camp. Tlieir advicol mistrusted, and instead of keeping a due soiither,n direction, toward which several Indian trails pointed, I followed a due southeast course over a very rocky but level country, occasionally crossing deep ravines, which are all headed from the few springs and creeks we had encaraijed on the })revious night. These ravines can all be avoided by keeping a mile or two more westward. Towards south and southeast, to all ap- ])earances, a level prairie ranges ; berries abound in all the ravines! crossed to-day ; antelopes were seen in every direction. On a high ]dateau, near a few springs, and amidst a heavy shower, I encamped. This far all the animals had a most excellent opi)ortunity to improve, and only the negligence of the man having had orders to take suffi- cient horse-shoe nails for a trip of twenty-live days, esjjecially for the dragoon horses, gave rise to mucli ill feeling amongst the men. Jidij ol. — I travelled over a country with about the same features as the ju'evious day — a level country, but covered with small round stones, In about ten miles from camp I arrived at a fine stream, and travelleu ten milts in close proximity to this stream. We jjas^ed various de- serted Indian encampments. The valley widened the further we ad- vanced, and by noon we arrived in a most beautiful jniiirie ahout ten miles wide, into which innumerable snmll streams em]itied. Game abounds here. A high snow peak, with its abrupt bluff, is the east- ern boundary of the fine prairie in a distance of about fifteen miles. Towards the southwest low, rolling hills are seen. We encamped at ant)ther fine stream emptying also in this j)rairie only three miles frt)iu the previous one. llere quite an exciting scene took pliue. Au Indian had encamped only a few moments before our arrival in siglit. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 2i]3 y, and witliayell^ V, Kwinjrinj. theil e of die hundrtd (1, were trying to (Ulliiig find break- od me IVom Foit iversaticn between me into our camp, le, t>nd liad a fine d to one of a party ; only one of them ere he at present D death ; lie, how- njg nack animals were to nil appearance turned out but a few minutes when iiis Kijiiaw noticed uh. The next moment she caught the nearest Donv "'"') without bridle or saddle, rode in full gaUop towards the iiofli'cst luoimtain. The Indian took advantage of our admiration iilioiit the horsemanship displayed by his woman, lassoed the best lioijie in the small band, and followed her footsteps. A well-selected stock of winter su])plies they left behind — buffalo robes, elk and deer and antehipe skins ; kaus kamas, and every variety of wild berries constituted their larder. Our animals, well secured for the night, made Kevcriil attempts to stampede. ji(mi>i !• — To-day I kept a due southeast course, avoiding many rocky lidgos, which ran in all directions in ascending towards the next monutain range. I reached two low hills, between which I gave directions to pass, when, to my surprise, on both eniinences, I dis- cuvered Indians looking o'>er somo boulders at us below. I imme- diiitelv ascended the hill with the detachment to va- left to gain a iilainvifwofsurrounding country. The Indians seeing this nuuueuvre, darted in lull tilt down the hill to the right, and joined their breth- ren in our i:nmediate neighborhood, yelling and howling like wild W.sts ; tlicy surrounded us. Many were on foot selecting tlie best liidiii"' places behind the rocks. I halted, and gave directions to close the column. Captain Graham and five privates in front, tiieir hands on tlieir sabres ; then the pack animals and the two packers, and the rear coiisisfed of the four remaining dragoons, with their kSliarji's rifles in baud. This little band rode on, whilst I, with only t\\ ) Indians, kddly rode up to the greatest number of Indians holding consulta- tion.' They received us coldly and with frowns. The Snake Indians explained to them our visit into their mountains, and, ere many min- lutes passed, we had smoked a pipe and made friendsliip at my expense Iota pair of new red blankets, tobacco, and other minor articles. I j^ave it to tlieni I'reely, regretting, however, the loss of tiiis another lliaii of fine blankets, which can illy be afforded to be spared in these 'liigh mountain regions during the cold nights. They showed me their trail to reach Great Salt lake, and advised [me to keep it, also informed me that only three days' travel ahead Several white I'ostons were inhabiting a log-house. The fugitive In- idianof yesterday informed me that the ilormons had told tlieni the Soldiers uould come during the summer and kill them all. I'y giving me all the information of tlieir country, they advised me to keep a [due south direction, to avoid several very deep ravines not far distant. jhi a general direction soutliwest, I crossed to-day many iine streams, liunniiig all north in narrow defiles of basaltic rock. Awjud 2. — By a gradual ascent, crossing numy small ravines, tlie [trail leads in about twelve miles to a very deep canon. Tlie trail [winds its zigzag way both down and uj). Eleven miles further brought [iiie in the iuiniediate vicinity of a snow-field. Grass abounds over all [the hills and dales, and rich soil extends both over high and low lland. August 3. — To-day I am obliged to change my general course. The ll'itrli mountain range, with its seven isolated peaks, form here, |tuwards ea.st, a right angle, and a broad and dtep gorge cuts the numii- r^ ' 2^ ' o-t AFFAIRS U ORKGON. I iiii m tain in twain and crosses tlie country. There are only tliree deen ravines, wliich can by a liberal appropriation be made practicable fi wajjjons. These tlireo ravines contain mountaiil torrents, with very Bwitt currents. Our camp at night was on the slope of the steep bank of the W ravine, as close as possible to the water. The banks of this river (.re covered with large Cottonwood trees. AiKjusi 4. — Tlie trail leads in a nearly due east direction, and crossos a beautiful level country, covered with most luxuriant grass, verv often crossing small and large creeks. Travelling only four miles distance from the low mountain range running due east, 1 passed six nuuill creeks and valleys, glad with the green grass, a true si the Bear river. A most excellent wagon road already exists. I attach herewith a table of distances from the Owyhee river to the Bear river ferry ; and I presume the distance from the Owvhee river to Harney lake is not above sixty miles ; and thence to Fort Dalles, only one hundred and eighty miles. The entire distance bv liind irom Fort Dalles to Great .Salt Lake valley is six hundred and thirty miles. 2r,th July ICi miles. 27th " ^0 " 28th " \'J " 'iWlli artment of Oregon. I , lii s [Extract.] Headcjuarters Drpartment op Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T., April 27, 1859. Special Orpers No. 40. I. To increase the facilities of communication between the Columbia river and tlie valley of the Great Salt lake, in connexion with the overland route to the frontiers of t'ae western States, the following coiiiniitnil will be organized at Fort Dulles, to move from that point Ly the (ii>t of June next, for the purpose of opening a good wagon rn;id to Snake river, and from thence to a point called City Ro'-ks, on the junction of the road from Forts Laramie and Bridger w'.th the road IVom Fort Hull, to Salt Lake City. 'I* 'T^ ^ ^ ^^ *A II. Ijrovct Second Lieutenant Joseph Dixon, corps of topographical ciisineers, will report f )r duty with tlie expedition. Bv order of General Harney. A. PLEASONTON, Captain 2d Dragoons, A, A. A. Chnerol. to day with greiit , 1. -i— ^'1 III ^4=^4^ 238 P I >* I J ■li : ';i'l ■ '^^M\' ATTAIUS IN OREGON. [Kxtriict.] IIkaikjuarteks Df.pautmknf of OitKdox, /br^ l^ancouver, IK T., May 7, 1853. Special Oudeks No. 40. KC >l< * * * * * IV. IJrevet Second Lieutenant J. Dixon, corjis of topnriiitiiiii miulo ex])hirati()ns, and re- Is with armk's in the authorizi'd (■xiionsej been assij^ned by will bo accountable C. monthly reports of monthly HtatenH'iitj ti of Topograiiliicil ve I D. I vant, )UGE THOM, xiyhkal EiKjumrs, (J the road. ' country passed over I, to the valley of the nkes the attention is , which present char- ct. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 239 FinST SECTION. Ik'twoen Fort Dalles and the point where wo croHsed the Dos Chutes liver near the mouth of the Warm Spring river. Distaniju Hcventy „ij|^,s, General direction, Nouth. The line Hurveyed in tliis section tulloWH lor.'xty miles tlie ii.sual travelled route to "the Indian reserva- tion near Warm Sprinj; river. Coniiiiiticin^ at the Kteatnboat landinf:^ at the City of the Dalles, Oiii'on, tlie ru.id ascends the blulf ot the Columltia river, in southeast (liriction, hy a dry ravine ; at this point the hluif is divided into three bundles, hut the smnniit can he reached hy (gradual ascent, and with- lait nnieli trouble. From the summit of the blulf the general direc- tidii of the road is nearly due south, crossing a small ^stream with imridW hut fertile bottoms, called Three Mile creek, about three miles iibovo its junction with the Columbia river, and from thence over a riil;'e, the height of which is about twelve lumdred feet above the level iif Hie H'a, to a rapid running stream, called Five Mile creek. The ullrv of this stream, though gravelly, appeared fertile. From this crouk the road ascends a long and steep hill, leaving the old trail to theiiglit, anil crossing the beautiful but narrow valley of Eight Milo crutk, about one mile below the crossing of the old trail. From this creek, by a lateral detile, the road ascends a long and high ridge, from tlie summit of w'lich tine views are had of the dark fir-covered Cascade iiiiij;e, and good hearings of the prominent mountain peaks. Hood, AtlainH, and JelTerson. From the summit of this ridge the road de- iiils to a v/ide and smooth valley, containing several fine ranchos riitliebaiiksof a clear stream, called Fifteen Mile creek. Thisciuntry I atiords excellent grazing lands; the grass is highly nutritious, there it |ilenty of timber for all practical i)urposes, and the soil along tho stieums is fertile and proiluctive. The ruad this far 1uij j'assed over I a hilly country. Fruni this valley we entered by a dry ravine into a beautiful grove I of [line trecH, and from this point we i)aissed owr li gently undul iting country, covered with bunch grass, interspersed with patches of Fre- iiiontia; also a large portion of ihe country '-^as ev>vcred with low and niiindiil mounds, with an altitude from ioisr to live feet, and a diaui- etirfVum twenty to twenty-five feet. They appeared in great numbers loiitlu' hillside as well as on the prairie. There has been much spec- iihitinii in relerence to their origin, but it still remains a mystery. jTlieso mounds give place to fiehls of lava on the summit of the moun- jtiiiiis noiMi of Tysch creek, which renders the road very rough iu leome places. The valley of the Tysch is about fifteen hundred feet below the jfiiiiimit of the mountains, and the descent to it so very rough and 1^(011 that it is even difiicult to conceive how heavily loaded wagons Iciu pass over it. The banks of the Tysch are fringed with willow, jii'l'T, and Cottonwood ; the valley is from one to two miles wide, cov- leied with a luxuriant growth of gi)od grass, as are also the hills on |either side. The Tysch rises iu the Cascade range, and flows with a jniiiid current over a rocky bed into the Des Chutes river [ The sijuthera branch of this stream, which is called \\ White river, is . M i 240 AFFAIKS IN OREOON. r''3 3 1 j ; rt' i :'^;^, Kf -i I about forty yards wide, find about two feet deep ; it flows with raiiid current over a pebbly bed, and enters tlie main stream about cio|it miles above ils junction with the Des Chutes, The southern bluff qi the valley is nearly as steej) and difficult to pass over as the northern one. From the summit of the southern bluff to the northern base of the Mutton mountains, a distance of about twelve or fifteen miles, there is a beautiful plain called Tysh prairie, elevated about two thousand two hundred feet above the level of the sea. This plain is covered with bunch jjrass, and here and there a few cedar trees. Oak Grove creek skirts the southern edge of this prairie, with its bottoms coveied ■with beautiful groves of oak trees. By following tip this stream about four miles, the mountains can be crossed by a much better pass than that where tiie old Indian trail crosses them. A magnificent pano- rama bursts forth upon the view from the summit of the Mutton mountains ; the surrounding lay spread before us for more than a hundred mih's ; several of the great snow peaks rise majestically above the rolling sea of the dark fir-covered Cascade range. From the pass in the I\iutton mountains to the canon of the Warm Sprinc river the road jjasses over a high jilain covered with good buncfi grass, interspersed with frequent beds of volcanic rocks and a few scattered cedar trees, as well as several springs of cold water. The descent into the canon of Warm Spring river is so very steep and rocky that it is nearly impassable for wagons. The Warm Spring river rises in the Cascade range, and flows through a narrow and deep canon, with sides in many places vertical or even overlianging, and. from three to four hundred feet hich, These vertical clilfs extend down in some places even to the water's edge, icndering it im])ossible to follow its banks to the junction oftk Des Chutes river. But, to the left of the canon, the country is of a more gently undulating character, and heavily-loaded wagons can pass over it with very little trouble to the ])oint where we crossed theDes Chutes river, near the mouth of the Warm Spring river. This sec- tion of the route is abundantly watered with numerous streams wlM pour down from the neighboring mountains. Tiiese streams flow through narrow chasm-like valleys from eight to twelve hundred feet below the plains. At the verge of these plains there generally commences vertical precipices of basaltic rocks, which leave only here and there a place where they can be entered on horse- back. The road across the country, which would otlierwise be very good, is renderetl nearly impracticable for wagons on tliis account, 0. the eastern side of the Des Chutes cafion but little was known until wo passed over it this summer ; much of it is high plateau, the greater portion of which is level. As the greater number of the tributaries of this river flow from the Cascade range, tlie numerous lateral canons which furrow the western side, and render it nearly impracticable for a wagon i id, do not exist to such an extent on the eastern side. Tlie Des Ci Mites river, where we crossed it, flow.s through a deep caiira with a rapid current, and it is said to be broken by many rapids, which have given it the name of Des Chutes. It is about two himilreiland fifty teet wide, and from six to eight feet deep ; its banks are fringed AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 241 it tlowH with rapiii stream about eight le southern bluff ot iver as tbe northert: orthern base of the fifteen miles, there ibont two thousand lis plain is covered r trees. Oak Grove 1 its bottoms coveied tip this stream about iich better pass than A magnificent pano- nmit of the Mutton 'fore us for more than iks rise majestically iscad(3 range. From jf the Warm Spring etl with good buncli nic rocks and a few )f cold water, river is so very steep 18. ule range, and flows many places vertical r hundred feet high, 3S even to the water's to the junction of tlit the country is of a laded wagons can pass re we crossed the Des with willows and Cottonwood ; its bottoms are very narrow, sterile, and bare. SECOND SECTION. IJetween the Des Chutes river and the western base of the Blue mountains. Distance, 250 miles. General direction, southeast. The ascent from the eastern bank of the Des Chutes to the table lands east of the above-named stream was very steep, and in some places quite rocky, rendering it nearly impracticable Tor heavily loaded wagons to reach the summit of the bluff, which is about eight hundred feet above the river. From the edge or the top of the caiion of Des Chutes to Oswego creek the road passed over high table lands, cov- ered with bunch grass and scattered cedar trees. In order to avoid a deep canon which intervenes between these two points, it makes a long detour to the north. The descent from the plain into the valley of O9we<'0 creek is in some places very steep, but a good road can be made^with little labor. From this valley we crossed a low ridge of sandstone into a beauti- ful and level valley from one to two miles wide, and covered with a luxuriant growth of fine grass. By following up this valley about five miles we came to a remarka- ble pass, leading through a broken range of low mountains into a large sand plain covered with artemisias, the first we had seen since we started, Near the centre of this plain we came to a cold spring of pure water fushin" out of a ledge of sandstone. From this spring to the western spur of the Blue mountains, a distance of about twenty-four miles, the country is level, covered with fine bunch grass and scattered groves of cedar trees ; the soil is of a light gravelly character ; there are occa.- sional outcrops of trap and other volcanic products. The banks of the streams are generally fringed with willow, cotton- wood, and alder, and the bottoms fertile. The western spur of the Blue mountains, which has been referred to before, is a branch of the main chain, and dividing the headw.''^ers of the Joha Day and Crooked rivers; this spur extends down the north side of Crooked j river nearly to the Des Chutes. Wecrossed this spur or chainat a remarkable depression, being about 1 4,000 feet above the level of the sea. The mountains are covered [with a dense growth of timber, (fir and pine,) extending to the sum- [mitof the highest pinnacles. The ascents are gradual and the road is very good. From the sum- jmitdown into the valley of Cottonwood creek the road is good, with I a gradual descent. Cottonwood creek is a mountain stream, flowing in a southern di- [rection over a rocky bed into Crooked river. It has but little timber Ion its banks, with the exception of Cottonwood; its bottoms are narrow [and sterile. ; J - 1 . , ^ From the above-named stream to Achera creek, we crossed a low >ut two hundred am ■gandy ridge, covered with cedar trees and artemisia. We forded Achera ring river. Thi .IS sec- uorous streams which fvc valleys from eight verge of these plains [basaltic rocks, whidi |i be entered on horse- lid otherwise be very Ions on this account. little was known until |h plateau, the greater Iber of the tributaries Inerons lateral canons [vrly iiupracticablefor on the eastern side, through a deep caiiin [y many rapids, which [its banks are fringed }\.. Ex. Doc. G5- ■10 S^ i it i; ! 11^' 242 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. creek abou*, one mile above its junction with Crooked river. The valley of Crooked river near the mouth of Achera creek is about five miles wide, low and sandy, covered 'with artemisia and freiuontia but very little grass. Crooked river at tbis point makes a large bend toward the soutli and to avoid this current, we crossed the mountains by a good roaj! The mountain sides are rich and productive, being covered with a luxuriant growth of excellent grass, wild pea vine, and red clovev, The rocks displayed on the mountains as we approached the summit which is about 4,330 feet above the sea, was a compact trap, decomposed on the exposed surface. We reached the valley of Crooked river a"ain by a ravine which was so narrow in some places that there was scarcelv room for wagons to pass. The general direction of the valley of Crooked river is nearly nortli- west, but on account of the tortuous course of the river through its sterile valley, it well deserved its name. The bottom lands of the valley will average from half a mile to a mile in width, and the sur- face consists of a very light and porous soil, but the road is generally good. Groves of alder and cottonwood, with dense thickets of willows exist on its banks. The hills which enclose this valley are generally low and sandy, covered with a growth of stunted cedars and scattered pines. The plains back of the hills are mainly formed of immense beds of trap, and clothed with a carpet of luxuriant bunch grass, (festuca,) which is almost universal on the plains and mountains of this region, and is always nutritious, even in a dry state. Most of the tributaries of this river form narrow caiions through the igneous rocks, and possess little soil capable of cultivation. We left the valley of the Crooked river a few miles below its forks, by a lateral canon, and reached by almost imperceptible ascent a hich prairie, somewhat cut up by gentle valleys. From this prairie to Buck creek, which is the headwater of the southern branch of Crooked river, a distance of about thirty-five miles, the road passes over an undulating country, the soil of which is of a light and sandy charac- ter, with outcrops of trap and lava. The road crossed several small streams, which are evidently tributaries of the southern branch of Crooked river. Although the surface of this region is undulating, the general slopes are so uniform that from high eminences the ap- pearance is that of a nearly level country. There extends from tliis undulating region a sloping plain to the I wide valley in which the southern brajich of Crooked liver takes its i rise, and from this plain an extensive i)anoramic view is obtained of the lolty and dark range of the Blue mountains, with les.ser ranges [ intermediate ; also to tlic south, and in front of us, lay spread outa vast sage plain, extending as far as the eye could reach, bounded by a broken range of low mountains. This plain is destitute of vegetation, with the exception of artemi- sia ; even the banks of the email streams that meander through it are | lined with a white ellerveocence like snow, instead of their usual toli' The elevation of this plain above the sea is four thousand threehun-j dred and thirty-^ve feet, aud it is dotted with several small lakes with] AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 24;5 The soil of the surrounding hills has a dry and calcined appearance. From Buck creek to Lake valley, a distance oi' about forty-five miles, the country is an uninterrupted dense field of artemisia, having in some places such a luxuriant growth that it was very difficult and la- borious to force our way through it. This region is a high plateau, constituting the dividin?^ ridge between the waters of Crooked river and the small streams which flow in an opposite direction, losing themselves either in the sand, or in the chain of lakes situated in the above-named valley. The ascent to the summit of the dividing ridge is so remarkably uniforra, and the depression so gentle in its declivity, that it rendered it difficult to define the exact position of the dividing crest, which is about 4,765 feet above the sea. The chief supply of water along the travelled route on this plateau depends on small lakes, which have a disagreeable alkaline taste. The soil is thin and stony, and in many places large outcrops of trap and lava are visible. The road descends from the summit of this divide by long and gen- tle reaches in a large saline valley or basin, being in many places for miles as level as a house floor. Here the vegetation consisted chiefly I of fremontia, with smaller saline shrubs. Here the surface was whitened with fields of alkali, resembling very much fields of snow. In many places there were isolated peaks, terminating in almost per- i feet craters of an oval or circuh.i ^^" ~ , These peaks are composed of a brown colored scoriaceous lava . • jntly the production of modern I eruptions. i This valley or basin is about 80 miles in length from east to west, I and about 50 in width. There are situated in this valley several lakes. Some of them are very shallow, and the water is so strongly impreg- nated witli alkali as to be totally unfit for use. Near the centre of this valley we came to a much larger lake than any we had yet seen. It was spread out over a length of about 18 miles, and in breadth about ten miles. It had every appearance of being very deep, and the water was so salty that our animals would not drink it. There was a Iconsiderable stream flowing into it from the north, but from all ap- jpearauces there was no outlet. Its shores were low and sandy. J This lake, when first presented to our view, was a handsome sheet of water, and we gave it the name of Lake Harney, in honor of the present commander of the department of Oregon. Some observations [made on the banks of a small lake two miles east of Lake Harney the altitude was 4,190 feet above the level of the sea, the latitude 43° 12' [25" north, and the longitude 118° 41' 40" west of Greenwich. We travelled from Lake Harney to the western base of tlie Blue [mountains, in a northern direction, over an extremely level country, [and in many places resembling very much the flat sandy bed of shal- |low lakes. From this plain, looking towards the north and east, we had a fine [view ot the Blue mountains, sweeping far away to the south, and ap- Ipearing to terminate in isolated peaks about sixty miles below ; and 11 at a greater distance to the south stood out clear to the sky a jlone mountain, with a vuiv mantle of snow, and, from the best ex-< ; i M I If H 244 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. amination that our time permitted, we were inclined to believe that it is entirely isolated from the main chain of the Blue mountains. The road from Lake Harney to Stillwater slough, a distance of about four- teen miles, is level and good, with the exception of drifting gaud which rendered it heavy in some places. ' The country is partially covered with artemisia and fremonria The above-named slough was very deep and narrow, Laving no peri ceptible current; its banks were fringed with dense groves of willow;. From this slough to the base of the i lountains, a distance of about eighteen miles, the c atry is a beautifi " level valley, covered with a luxuriant growth of banch grass, wild pea vines, and red clover, inter- apersed with fields of camass on a rich soil, abundantly watered by numerous mountain streams, all of which converged toward the south- ern end of the valley, where they lose themselves in a large marsh This savanna, or meadow, is bounded on the north and east by the Blue mountains, the carious of which are well timbered with pine and Cottonwood. This wide savanna, or grassy meado' ■, or rather a succession of meadows, of rich soil, separated by lines of cottonwood trees, growinff along the many streams that flow from the surrounding range of mountains, make a picture that would delight the eye of a farmer if he could be content to live in such seclusion as it imposes. Game along this section is also abundant — antelope, deer, and several spe- cies of grouse, prairie chickens, ducks, geese, &c. In conclusion, we would say, for emigrants whr may take this route, or are desirous of recruiting tlieir animals, or troops on scoutin" expeditions, this section presents many advantages, such as permanen" water, plenty of good grass, the canons and mountain slopes covered ■with timber, pine, fir, cedar, cottonwood, and willows, and last, and most important of all, a good road. IHIBD SECTION. I'-l ^■i "i I if'! Between the western base of the Blue mountains and the Owyhee river, near its junction with Snake river. Distance, 143 miles. Gen- eral direction : first, northeast ; second, southeast. This section may be subdivided into the mountain or hilly division and the lower or valley division. By referring to the map it will be perceived that there is but one main mountain mass or chain of the Blue mountains, and that there j is a continuous range, presenting but few depressions or openings, dividing the waters flowing into the Snake river from those flowing into the Columbia river and the chain of lakes in Lake valley. It will be observed that there are two secondary ranges or spurs branching off from the main chain, one dividing the headwaters of the John Day and Des Chutes rivers, which is called the western spur, and the other dividing the waters of the Burnt and Malheur rivers, which is called the eastern s'tur. In locating the Blue mountains and its spurs we were very careful in taking as many bearings as possible of all the mountain peaks and prominent landmarks, as well as determining the position of the AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 2^:5 ed to believe that it le mountains. The tance of about four- ti of drifting sand, sia and freraontia, ow, l;aving no per- ie groves of willowj, , a distance of about klley, covered with a Lnd red clover, inter- indantly watered by ed toward tlie south- es in a large marsh, rth and east by the ibered with pine and [itber a succeBslon of iwood trees, growing urrounding range ot le eye of a farmer, if IS it imposes. Game leer, and several spe- wbr may take this , or troops on scouting es, Bucb as permanent 11 n tain slopes covered dllows, and last, and tains and the Owyhee mce, 143 miles. Gen- 1st. itain or hilly division Itbat there is but one ! Itains, and that there [essions or openings, • I'rom those flowing Lake valley. ^dary ranges or spurs ; the headwaters of called the western Burnt and Malheur I we were very careful mountain peaks and the position of tlie Doints where we crossed them, with as much accuracy as our instru- nieiits would give and our time permitted. From the western spur of the Blue mountains ther- r"-*^ many secondary spurs extending (Iowa towards the Malheur liv-r, between which there are flowing iDinv small streams vvhich entjr into the Malheur river. fhe ascent of the Blue mountains is about six miles long, and very steep and rocky in some places, rendering it both laborious and tedious to reach the summit, which is about 6,265 fleet above the level of the sea. The principal rocks displayed on the summit are a dark slate-stone, and trap on either side. The view from the mountain top, looking toward the east, was riiir-'cd and wild in the extreme. The whole face of the country, as iiu as the eye could reach, was broken up into mountains and narrow valleys, or cafions, through which mountain torrents rushed, foaming and roaring, over their rocky beds. But, looking toward the south- west from the same spot, the scene is quite to the reverse ; there one beholds a plain as boundless as the ocean, alternating with lakes and prairies covered with waving grass, and numerous streams winding their serpentine courses through it, between banks fringed with willow and Cottonwood thickets. We descended the Blue mountains by a very circuitous and precipi- tous route ; we often had t ) make sharp turns to avoid high cliffs and deep gorges, which rendered the country rugged and wild beyond description. The descer. t brought us to the rocky bed of a small moun- tain brook flowing in a northeast direction into the Malheur river. The bed of this brook was rocky, priucipally with the debris of quartz, which had good indications of gold. We crossed the little brook about five miles from the caiion of the Malheur river, but the caiion was so narrow, and the rocks, by falling from the cliffs above, had so completely blocked it up, that we were forced to cross the small spurs of the main mountains to our right by a very rough and rocky road, and reach the river further below, where the caiion had v'dened out into a valley, nearly one mile wide, that was covered with some good grass, We crossed the river at a good ford, and travelled down the Viilley on its left bank, but we had not gone far when we discovered a ; gorge with high precipices of basaltic rocks, between the walls [of which the river flowed with a rapid current over a rocky bed, and Ithe banks were so rugged as to render it impossible to follow it any Ifarther. So, turning to the north, we descended diagonally the east- ern spur of tlie Blue mountains, over a heavy rolling country, covered |*ith good grass, but very rocky. The mountain tops were well timbered with pine and cedar. We Itravelled on the soutlicrn side of tl;t' eastern spur of the Blue moun- lains until wc entered the narrow valley of the northern branch of the lalheur river, by the worst road we had yt seen. This stream flows kith a rapid current over a rocky bed, clearing a way through for ftself, and leaving the mountains on either side towering thousands of leet above its narrow bottoms. Our road followed the direction of this stream for some distance, Sometimes finding room along the borders of the river, and then nearly I the tops of the hills, by ascents and de xmts so precipitous aa to i*' » ' . mm» U .1 2 \r i 'if ..■.,!, 246 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 1 :', J, j render it decidedly bad and dangerous for wagons. Finding it im. possible to follow this stream to its junction with the Malheur river we turned again to the north and travelled ovor the most nsf^l covintry that we had ever seen, to a small creel, lie hanks of whlcn were fringed with birch, cottonwood, and willow ; this being the flrst birch tinber we had seen on our journey, we gave to this stream the name of Birch creek. The bottoms of this stream are narrow, but are covered with a luxuriant growth of good grass, as well as the mountain sides that bound it. From this creek it was necessary to cross a range of hills nearly as high as the Blue mountains. The road went up diagonalh but the ascent was by far the most toilsome operation tiiat we hail ever undertaken. The mountains were rugged and destitute of timber, with the excep- tion of a few stunted cedar trees, but they wre covered with a luxuriant growth of good bunch grass. The view from this mountain top showed a country broken still, but on a much smaller scale than that we had passed over. There appeared to be but very little order or regularity to the rolling sand hills in front of us, but the whole had the appearance of the surface of a large boiling caldron suddenly stricken motionless. From the summit of this ridge we descended by a rocky ravine into the broken sandy country below, and then we wound our way around sand hills, over a sandy plain covered with artemisia, to the vallev of the Malheur river once more. It will be observed that the road in this division passes over a I mountainous country, the streams flowing rather in ravines than] valleys, and the road is decidedly bad and dangerous, but entirely in- practicable for heavily loaded wagons, without much labor ; but stil' | it presents some advantages, such as plenty of good water ; the moun- tain slopes are covered with a luxuriant growth of good bunch grass, and the gulches are filled with pine, cottonwood, and willow. Ganiej is also plenty — antelope, deer, i^rouse, prairie chickens, etc. There are also found in great abundance in the numerous streams several! species of the mountain and salmon trout. SECOND DIVISION. This portion of the section may be called the lower or valley divisimi, as it is much lower than the first division, and being principally in tlie j valleys of the Malheur and Snake rivers. The Malheur river, about eight miles above .he point where we came! to it, debouches irom a black gorge of high precipices formed of basaltic rocks, and following up this stream it is found to be shut in among lofty mountains, confining its narrow valley (or more properly canon) I in a very rugged country. The river flows through this gorge or canon with a rapid current, over a rocky bed, but below the gorge it [ has a slow anu sluggish current. The river was in July about sixty i'eet wide, and from two to three] feet in depth ; its banks were fringed with willow and cottoinvooil. Below the gorge the valley opens out into a broad plain, increasing! AFFAIRS IN OREOON. 247 in widtli clown to Snake river, with the exception of a few places where the hills extend down, and the basaltic rocks infringe upon the stream in Halieiit points. The bottoms were covered with sage bushes, with occasioniil intervening patches of grass, which, however, become less frequent as the river descends. The country on the right side of the river presents itself as a high plateau, intersected by deep canons ex- teiulitig back several miles. This plateau, like the rest of the country :>ast of the mountains, is covered everywhere with the same interminable field of sage, and occasionally large outcropj of lava and other volcanic productions. Tlie country on the left side of the river below the mountains con- sisLs of low masses of sandy hills. We travelled down the valley mostly oil the left side of the river, the road rising and falling on the sides of tlie hills until we reached the point where the old emigrant road to Walla-Walla crosses it. We crossed the river at the old ford, ffhicli i.s by no means a good one, and followed up a dry sandy hollow until we reached the summit of the dividing ridge between the Malheur river and the Owyhee; the rocks dis})layed on the summit were of a coarse granular sandstone. From the top of the ridge we crossed a sandy plain covered with sage bushes by a succession of gentle descents to the Owyhee river. It will be perceived that the road in this division is level and good, with the exception of some places where it is rendered ({uite heavy by tlie sand. There is but very little grass, and no game except sage- cocks, which are in great abundance. ;l Lit much labor ; but stil' FOURTH SECTION. From the Owyhee river to the summit of the dividing ridge between the waters of the Snake river and the valley of the Great Salt lake. Distance, IJOO miles. General direction, southeast. By referring to the map it will b-^ perceived thai this section may 1)0 subdivided into two divisions, the iv.vst including that portion be- tween the Owyhee river and the headwaters of Swamp creek, the second including the remainder of the section. Although these two divisions are entirely included in the valley of Snake river, they differ fruni each other in several characteristics. FIRST DIVISION. The general appearance of the valley of Snake river between the northern bank of the river and the distant Salmon River mountains is one vast high plain, broken and rent into chasms and deep ravines, covered with black volcanic rocks and artemisia. The country on the southern side of the river aloiig the line of the road is a barren valley, varying in width from five to sixty miles. From the Owyhee to the lower end of the first canon of the Snake river, a distance of about 00 miles, the valley is narrow and broken up into bare sand hills, but its general character is that of an inclined jilane slo[)iiij; down towards the river, and extending back to the river chain ot mountains. The country between the lower rad of the f 248 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. If ■ [' i wj : ir nbove-naincd canon and Burnt Mountain creek ia a higli sage plain broken u]) into dee)) canons. This plain i.s formed by successive lay- ers ofbafialtic rocks, interstratified with clay, stone, and conglonierares, There are also many isolated masses of coarse conglomerates, broken up into turret-shaped heaps, col-jred by some ferruginous substances from a brilliant red to a deep black. This plain or plateau is perfectly bare with the exception of arte- misia ; not a tree can be seen as far as the eye can reach. Burnt Mountain creek takes it name from two lone buttes situated near the point where it onij>ties into Snake river, which are covered with piles of scoriaceous basalt of a reddish tinge, interspersed witli black volcanic rocks, which give them the appearance of old furnaces surrounded by ashes and blackened by smoke. From Burnt Moun- tain creek to Bruneau river the country has truly a melancholy and strange appearance ; it is whitened with fields of alkali ; the river banks are sterile and destitute of both timber and grass, and the plain sloping back to the distant mountains, is sterile and darkened witll gloomy and barren artemisia. The country between Bruneau river and the headwaters of Swamp creek, and stretching over an immense region to the south, is one vast sage desert, heaved up into wide table lands, from wliioli there bursts forth low hills and isolated bultes, covered with volcanic asbes and lava of different colors. This region is also broken up into many lateral ravines, some of which are dry and destitute of either timber or grass^ whilst through the others flow small streams, with narrow bottoms, and scanty grass. This country is destitute of timber, with the exception of the small willows along the banks of the streams and the stunted cedars on the rocky shores of Snake river and the distant mountain slopes. At some distance from the river there appears to be a series of sand fields and drifts, extending nearly across this region. The principal rocks are basaltic conglomerates, which are very abundant near the river, rendering the road very rough in many places. The bottoms of Snake river occur at wide intervals from each other, and are narrow and sterile. Some of them are white fields of alkali, whilst otliers are covered with a thin clothing of saline shrub and a rougli grass of an alkaline quality. The road follows up the left bank of Snake river, leaving it in no places more than eight miles, and in miuQ places it winds its way between the bluffs and the river, where there is scarcely room for wagons to pass. It is generally level, but is quite rocky in several places, whilst a large portion of it passes through a sandy country, which renders it very heavy and fatiguing, In taking a general view of the valley of Snake river between the Malheur river and the headwaters of Swamp creek, it presents avast and barren plain, wliere there does not occur for a distance of 2fl0 r'' ■ a fertile spot of ground large enough to produce grain and pas- I !u in sufficiently large quantities to allow even a temporary re- nr , I'a small train. Tliis route, which would otherwise be a very '■ ,>ii»! for emigrants and trooi)H on scouting expeditious, is ren- u-itd nearly useless on account of the great scarcity of grass. By referring to the map, it will be perceived that there is a trail AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 249 a Kigli sage plain, by successive lay- 111(1 conglomerares. rjomerates, broken iginous Hubstaacea I exception of arte- reach. one buttes situated , which are covered I, interspersed with nee of old furnaces Prom Burnt Moun- r a melancholy and if alkali ; the river ;ra88, and the plain, and darkened with ad waters of Swamp ;o the south, is one 8, from which there with volcauic ashes Iso broken up into i destitute of either small streams, with jcption of the small funted cedars on the in slopes. 3 be a series of sand n. es, which are very ery rough in many intervals from each are white fields of ing of saline shrub •oad follows up the »re than eight miles, )luff8 and the river, t is generally level, portion of it passes lavy and fatiguing. e river between the , it ])resents a vast |r a distance of 2iiO |luce grain and pas- en a temporary re- lotherwise be a very xpeditions, is ren- .y of grass. that there is a trail iiloti" the distant mountains on the right, and from the general char- iu'ter'of the country it is reasonable to ])elieve that this trail, ])as8ing near the heads of the streams flowing into Snake river, would boa uuich better road than the one we have followed. This trail; if it can liefi)llowed with wagons, is much shorter than the route we have iiassed over. It is on a diiect line with the road wo travelled to Lake Harney and the headwaters of Swamp creek; or, if it is practicable to crtiHS the Goose Creek mountains, still better, intersecting the emi- grant road to California near the City of Rocks, and there is no rea- siin to apprehend any insurmountable obstacle in view as we passed arouiul it; but as the country is broken, only actual explorations can detevruine its practicability. This roui.e, however, cannot he more difficult than the one we followed, and it certainly would not be one- half the distance. Here it may be remarked, as every traveller on this western slope (if our continent has observed^ tliat the usual order of the distribution of'^ood and bad soil is often reversed, the rivei and creek bottoms kin" often sterile and darkened with the gloomy and barren arte- misia, while the mountains are fertile and covered with rich grass, pleasant to the i/e and good for animals. It will be observed by fc 'lowing the above-mentioned trail to the vicinity of Lake Harney and then turning to the left and travelling ina westerly direction, crossing the Cascade range by a trail near Diamond Peak, whicli is at present travelled and is said to be practi- cable, the emigrants can reach the valley of the Willamette by a much nearer route than either of the others that are at present travelled. For working parties on constructi )n, or to emigrants who are desi- rous of recruiting their animals, or to troops on scouting expeditions, lam confident that this route would present many advantages far superior to either of 'he others, such as plenty of wood and water, hixu'iiuit growth of fine bunch grass, which is always nutritious, even iu a dry state. SNAKE RIVER. The altitude of Snake river near the point where the Owyhee liver empties into it is about *2,120 feet above the level of the sea. From this point to the foot of Salmon falls, a distance of about 140 miles, the river tlows with gentle current, forming several large islands, which are covered with tall rough grass and thickets of willow bushes. The river was, in July, about four feet below high water mark, but still it appeared to be very deep, and from 400 to 500 yards wide. Its altitude near the foot of Salmon fiiUs is about 2,8'jr) iect above the I'jvel of the sea. The Salmon falls are a succession of rapids, and are about 15 miles in length. The altitude of the river, near their head, is about o/22() feet above the sea. The great canon of Snake river commences about 10 miles above the point where the Salmon Fall river empties into Snake i iver, and extends u}) the river about GO miles. This canon is about 800 feet deep. Near the mouth of Rock creek its sides are nearly jierpendicular, and are formed of basaltic rocks under- laid with claystone. •itMi-umm^^isiimm •MMH I ■^ 250 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. The Great Shoslioneo falls of Snake river occur about t'i;;lit mile, above the tiiouth of Mock creek. The river is about isix hiitulredl et wide nbove the falla, and in iiiirnediately contracted at tlie falls lithe lorni of a lock by juttinvi(lin» pico OIK' Iiundrei am] I aud HJxty icet, over [id apjicarance beyond ;he canon is about four i tho level ot the ?% tbe mouth of Swainji utle current throng ividin<>: ridge between Great Salt lake. ip oreek and the point s slightly undulatini;, the route passing over I interminable fields of abundance along the med that in the valley ground tliat once pro ■ relieves the soil from it. But be this as it ain slopes of thisconu' of excellent grass, of the dividing ridge the siunmit of tliis ed by linos and groves streams flowing Irniii with groves of cedar tho many streams are Itoms are covered with se of the mountains, ('ut-oft" crosses it, and and intersecting the the dividing ridtje, etween the waters ot i, to Bear river. Dis- east. •e near the dividing ridi'e, to ft small creek with narrow bottoms called Deep creek, is a level sage plain, with an alkaline soil and scanty grass. From the above named stream to the valley of Benr river the country consists of a series of rolling prairie hilU, with occasional smivll groves of cedar trees. It is also covered with a rich and luxu- riant growth of grass at every point. Xho valley of 15ear river is from ten to twelve miles wide at the ferrv. It is very level, and from tho right bank of the river to tho foot hills it is covered with sage bushes and the soil is of an alkaline character. The soil from the left bank of the river to the base of the mountains appears to be of a fertile character and the vegetation such as is usually found in good ground. Tho river flows with a gentle current at the i'erry, and is (JO yards wide and from eight to ten feet dec[). From Cedar springs we followed the old emigrant road to California across Deep creek and by HenseU's, Blue, and Emigrant springs to the I'erry of Bear river, crossing the liiviere aux Roseaux at the bridge. This is a good and easily-travelled wagoD road in all seasoDS of the year. HOMEWARD JOURNBY. On our homeward journey we returned hy nearly the same road that we travelled to the city of the Great Salt lake as far as the iord of the ilalheur river. From the ford of the Malheur river we followed the old emigrant road via Grand Ronde to McKay's agency on the Umatilla river, and from tlience by the usual travelled road from Fort Walla- Walla to Fort Dalles. The country along this route liaa been so thoroughly examined and 1.0 fully described by various surveying parties who enjoyed superior advantages to myself, from the number of their instruments and assistants, thiit any further description of it on ray part would be [iltogether uniiocessary. In conclusion I would say that this country, like all the rest of the raouutainous regions on this part of the Pacific slope, possesses a good soil, covered with nutritious grass, and a dense forest, embracing many varieties of trees. The country is broken, many of the streams flowing rather in ravines than valleys, and the road is decidedly bad and dangerous for wagons, rec^uiring considerable labor and expense to make it a good and easily-travelled wagon road. GENERAL 1)ISCUS.SI0N OF THE MERITS OF THE DIFFERENT ROUTES. From the South Pass to the 8tato of Oregon and the Territory of Washington thero arc at present two travelled routes, one following down the valley of the 8nake river, crossing the Blue mountains via Grand Ronde into the valley of the Columbia, the other following down the valley of the Humboldt and entering into the JState ot* Oregon by what is known as the great Oregon canon. To the first of these routes there has been and always will be im- 252 AFFAIR8 IN OHEGON. ii^w :\ portant Jitul inHurinoiintablc objectionH, an luiarly three huiulred miles of it paHHCH throu^^h tho storilo valley of Siiako river, which 'm uanfU destitute of one of the innHt itidinpetiHahle artick-H to eiui^riintH or troopH, that iH, grasa. JU'Hidcs these ohjcctionH, it makes a loni? detour to the north, crossing the IMuo tnountaina by a rough and rugged pass into the valley of tlie Columbia river. Tne second route passes entirely too far to the south to ever boa good thoroughlare to the State of Oregon and the Territory of Wash- ington. The proposed route indicated on the map obviates all of the above- mentioned difficulticH in passing near the headwaters of the numeroti.s streams flow ig into Snake river I'rom the south. It ctfers to the trains going to and from the valley of the Great Salt lake, as well ns those coming through the South Pass, a continuous supply of the indispensable articles of vood, water, and grass. The route | nosed, Hs will be perceived by referring to the maj), leaves Fort Du.iesand ibllowH the usual travelled road to B\)rt Walla-Walla as far as the Des Chutes river, crossing this stream at the bridge near its junction with the Columbia river, and from thence passing up the eastern s-ide of the Des Chutes river and intersecting the road that we passed over this summer near the point where it enters the valley of Trout or Oswego creek. This part of the route was examined by Lieutenant Bounycastle, of the fourtli infantry, who reports it to be an easily-travelled wagon road, and having plenty of wood, water, and grass for large trains, From the valley of Trout creek to Lake Harney, as has be-n men- tioned before in the report, there is a good wagon road, with abun- dance of wood, water, and grass. The country from Lake Harney to the forks of the Owyhee and Kearney rivers, a distance of about sixty-five miles at the furthest, has not been examined, but from the general appearance of it on both sides, much of whicli was in view as we passed around it this summer, it is a level plain, jjossessing all the requisites necessary for the trav- eller in this remote region. The country from tlie forks of the Owyhee and Kearney rivers was examined by Mr. Scholl, the chief guide of the expedition, and lie re- ports that tlic wagons could have passed over it without any difficulty, with the exception of three canons or ravines, which recjuire work- ing; and he also reports that tiie soil is fertile in many places, and that the mountain slopes and valleys are covered with a luxuriant growth of grass, and there is ])lenty of wood and water. It will also be readily observed, by referring to the map, that the proposed route from Fort Dalles to the headwaters of Swamp creek, or still better, if practicable, intersecting the Emigrant road to Cali- fornia near the City of Rocks, is a central one and nmch nearer than either of the others, and that all of it has been examined with the ex- ception of the small portion from Lake Harney to the Owyhee river. ;c luindred miles , whicli iii iK'arlv to oini|j;rantH i/r t niakoH 11 lotn; by a rough ami »\it]» to ever bp a rritory of VVanh. all of the above- I of tlio numerous It otters to the alt lake, as well iU8 supply of tht e route [ Mosed, I Fort D,. .csand lUa as far as the near its junction [) the eastern ^'ile at we passed over illey of Trout or it BonnycastlBjof r-travelled wagon ) for large traioH, 8 has ben men- road, with abuu- the Owyhee and at the furthest, ,nce of it on both \\ it this summer, lary for the trav- sarney rivers was [lition, and he re- lut any difficulty, fell require work- uany places, and •ith a luxuriant ;er. le map, that the [of Swamp creek, lant road to Cali- luich nearer than Ined with the ex- le Owyhee river. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. APPENDIX "A." 253 J)!sfawf>i «'"' oltttndcs J'i'om Fui't Ihiflrs, Orcrjon, to Great Salt Lake City. Ptttf. 1S59. Station. June 1 Thri-c-inlli! croek 4 Flve-nillo croek 5 1 Klulitinile creek I Fiftcrii-inile creek .... fi Tynlii' vivlk'y 7 White river 8 ();ik Grove croek 10 gtmrtz creek ' 11 Wiirm S|)riiit,'s river i 12 CrciHsing of the UeH Chutes river] 15 ili> 17 I Trimt or O«wepo creek 19 Siuulstonc springs 20 \ Ccdiir Hprinn'S 21 i Wiildu creek 22 Cottonwood creek.. 23 Aclicrii creek 21 Antelope KpiinfTs 25 Crooked river, IhI 2(i I Croolicil river, 2d ,.. 27 Crooked Hi ver cumin ,Iiily 1 I'iiie grove Tliree-pinu creek ........ 2 7 R 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 21 22 23 2.5 2.26 4. 7S 17.50 00. ,'■.0 la. 00 7. 7.') !l. 00 U. 2.5 .ftO 17. .50 7. .50 11.00 10. 75 11.25 !». 00 10. 50 12. 75 15. 00 5. 00 2. 00 5.75 17.00 13.00 11.00 0. 75 11.00 9.75 23.75 14. 75 18.00 .a 13 3.00 5.6 7.75 12.60 80. 00 30. .50 4.'l. 50 51. 25 60. 25 f.'J. 60 70.00 H7. 50 95. 00 loi;. 00 Utl. 75 128.00 137.00 I 147.50 i 1(10.25 j 17.5. 25 i 180.25 1 182.25 188.00 205. 00 218.00 229. 00 238. 75 249. 75 259. 50 283. 25 298.00 31(). 00 Spring valley liiR'k creek ...I Dividing ridge liouiid lake 11 niiii's fruni Hound hike : Lilie Wliapenpa Stiiinpede lake Stillwater slough Ciun|) Surprise Small creek, uortli side of Big j meadows I 5.50 ; 321. Smuinit of Blue inountuinB....j 10. 00 Carrot creek | 5. 00 Malheur river j 14. 50 UockCreek c.ifion I 1(5. 00 South liend of Malheur river..' 8. 00 Bircli creek | 5.25 Ice springs i 15.50 Malheur river i 2(i. 00 Cr(is., 637 '>.083 3, 9.39 562 4, 799 6,034 2,458 2,107 2,121 2,407 Uuinurkg. Hourly obHcrva- tlonH for tlireo dayB with two barotuettir)*. Showers of rain. Near the ford. L«!ft bank. Right bank. Spring, half-way. Dividing ridge. No barometer ob- servations. Summit. 254 tl Ti ij ; ■ < ^ 'i [i>- •1' '^ Date. ■,f' ;.t. 'A 'i: ; ■ - ..iL< t- . : '4 a' '- J -ii 1859. July 24 25 2(> 27 28 29 30 31 Aug. 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 V ': '■' I iCK'l AFFAIRS IN OREGON. APPENDIX A— Continued. Statiou. Hot springs 01(1 Iron springs Hurnt Mountain creek Bruneau river Camp Reynolds, (on Snake river) Rattlesnake meadows Top of canon of Snake river Salmon Falls river Rock creek, Ist Rock creek, 2d Snake river Swamp creek. .- Raft creek, Ist Raft creek, 2d Cedar springs, (on Califor'a road) Hensell's spring Bear River ferry Mud springs Philip' s village Great Salt Lake City .as ts a « OS 22.00 11.00 24.00 20.00 15.00 18.00 16.50 20,25 23.00 17.25 20.75 19. 25 i;j. 25 19.00 24.00 32. 00 34. 00 27.00 26.00 17.00 3 i • 504. 25 515. 25 539, 25 559. 25 574. 25 592. 25 C08. 75 629. 00 652.00 669. 25 690. 00 709. 25 722. 50 741.50 765. 50 797.50 831.50 858. 50 884. 50 902. 50 Remaika. 2,442 2,468 2,660 2,829 2,847 2,879 3, 102 2,513 3,753 3,994 3, 990 4,367 4,297 4,314 5,439 5,393 4, 334 4,470 4,327 4,351 i-1 I AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 255 APPENDIX A— Continued. Homeward journey. Dnte. ISol). Alls;. 22 ' n 2t 25 20 27 2S 29 30 31 Sept. Oct. Station. 6 9 11 12 13 U 1,') n; 17 Fiirraington . ... Ofrdcn CJity Pebbly spring Drifibiim City Wave Kivei- ferry ICiniiinint's spring llensell's spring Ccdiir spririf^s Riift croelc Uiviiling ridge betwoen Raft crook iind Swamp creek Swamp creek Snake river Hock creek, 1st Rock creek, 2-1 Salmon Falls river Top of canon Rattlesnake meadows Camp Reynolds Top u' hill between Camp Rey- nolds and Brnneau river.., Brunoau river Ruint Mountain creek Top of hill between cailon Creek and Iron springs Old Iron springs Hot springs — . Big Rock creek Owyhee ri v.ir Criissingof Malheur rivor Birch creek, (near Snake river) Burnt river .... Small creek near Burnt river . Small brinch of Powder river. Powder river Grand Rondo Granil Rondo rivor Summit of Bine mountains.. Ia'c'.s encampment Small creek toot of mo nn tains. Umatilla river. .... .... Umatilla river, (McKay's) L'miitilla, (1st eros,sing) Umatilla, (id crossing) Butler creek Well's springs Willow crook Rock creek DesClmtts river Dalles -,„.... -a .2 S a 17.50 15.50 14.50 12. 00 8.00 9. 00 26.00 32. 00 27. 00 15. 00 19.25 20.75 1.3. 25 22.00 20.25 16.25 18.00 (A at O k- HC5 .■i3. 00 47.50 59.50 67.50 76.50 102. 50 134.50 161.50 12. 50 20.00 176.50 195. 75 216.50 229.75 251.75 272.00 289.25 307. 25 319.75 339. 75 7.50 16.50 11.00 2;!. 00 17.50 17.50 20.75 11.50 14.75 22.00 20. 75 20. 75 17. 00 11.00 7.00 9.00 3.00 8. 50 4.50 20. 25 9. 50 15. 25 16.00 2;f. 00 32. 00 363.75 374.75 397.75 415.25 432. 75 453. 50 465. 00 479. 75 601.75 622. 50 54:i. 25 560. 25 578. 25 592.25 600. 75 605. 25 625. 50 6:i5. 00 650. 25 666. 25 689. 25 721.75 737. 50 3 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 4, 5, 4. 3, 3, 3, 2, 3, 2, 2 321 341 286 312 434 162 400 439 314 162 382 990 994 753 231 112 872 847 3,102 2,829 2,660 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 1, 2, 3, *' t 3, 2, 3, 4, 4, 910 468 443 407 121 107 979 407 102 147 109 940 092 970 2S7 1,504 1,240 1,137 1 , 085 Remarks. Hurricane, with showers of rain Tliunder, i-now with rain Steady rain during the day. Snow and rain. Continticd rain all day. .-*<^wnp>- MUM 256 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. I IS ■11 " APPENDIX "B." Talle of lafifuden, Jongiiudes, and variations of the compass deterniml on the line of travel of the wagon road expedition to the valley of th Great Salt lake, and prepared by Brevet Second Lieut. Joseph Dixon topographical engineer of the expedition. ' Date. •:■ ^ 1859. June 2 9 10 12 18 19 21 22 24 30 July 3 6 7 8 10 12 13 14 ](> 17 23 24 26 27 29 1 2 3 4 5 6 Aug. Placo of observation. Three-mile creek, near Fort Dalles. ( Uilv (! rove creek ...... .... .. Quartz sprinj;a Crossing of Des Chutes. - Trout or Oswego ereek Sandstone springs Willow creek Cottonwood creek Antelope springs Crooked lii ver canon Buck creek Lake Whatuinpi Stampeiie lake Stillwater slougli Surprise creek Carrot creek, in the Blue luount-uus. Right bank of Malheur river lUick Creek canon . ... Ice springs Left bank of Malheur river Great Kock creek Hot springs ou Snake river liurnt Mountain creek Uruneau river Ilattlesnake meadows Salmon Falls river Rock creek, Ist Rfick creek, 2d ,. Snake river Swamp creek Raft creek ...... ... Latitude. o 45 45 45 44 44 44 44 44 44 41 •1.5 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 33 55 06 22 01 52 47 12 25 21 42 14 27 15 22 27 15 13 03 24 42 35 16 12 12 25 25 27 36 45 43 07 46 32 55 53 43 44 48 49 35 53 22 49 03 01 57 44 55 29 42 25 36 10 26 52 29 53 31 57 35 36 Longitude. 120 56 11 121 04 48 Varial: 120 50 23 120 42 08 120 4i» 22 120 42 07 120 28 07 119 50 30 119 32 30 119 05 15 118 42 40 118 .'7 45 118 o! 45 118 15 45 117 57 00 117 09 37 lie IS 19 115 33 21 115 35 06 115 (16 25 114 38 37 114 20 32 113 45 05 113 24 33 113 08 15 ion, 19 i, 19 2i) 19 15 18 5.) 1>;' 40 18 40 18 lu is 10 18 25 18 25 18 30 18 15 "irio 17 04 17 00 Iti 45 HOMEWARD JOURNEY. f': i Date. 1859 Sept. 13 16 24 25 28 2 3 4 5 8 Oct. Place of obwrvation. Altitude. ; o ' " Old Iron spring, on Snake r. .r 43 18 33 Foril (if the Owyliee river 43 46 51 Ford of the JIaiheur river ... 43 67 43 Birch creek of Snake river 44 16 09 Branch of Powder river 44 46 03 (jirand Ronde valley 45 16 16 (iraiid Konde river 45 20 27 IjeeV encampment, Blue mountains. 45 32 41 First camp, Umatilla rivei 45 40 52 Near McK.iy's agency on the Uma- tilla 45 40 30 Longitude. Variation. lie 47 45 18 04 116 57 08 18 18 04 09 117 32 67 18 20 117 47 17 19 19 20 20 00 20 00 05 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 257 compass deternml to the valley of tk litut. Joseph Dixon jongitude. Variation, o 20 56 11 21 04 48 : 19 4,, 19 21) 20 50 23 20 42 08 19 15 20 49 22 120 42 07 18 5.) 120 2S 07 119 50 30 119 32 30 119 05 15 118 42 40 1^ 41] 18 40 18 ID 118 .'7 45 118 ii? 45 lis 15 45 IS Id 18 25 18 25 117 57 00 18 30 .••.■■. .. 117 09 37 18 Ij lie IS 19 115 33 21 115 35 00 115 06 25 114 38 37 114 20 32 n 50 17 04 IT 00 113 45 05 113 24 33 113 08 15 16 45 •74 6. Fort Cascades, W. T., October 29, 1859. Captain : In accordance with your direction, I submit the following report concerning the means used on the recent expedition to Salt Lake to effect the crossing of rivers. The detachment of engineer troops under my command were pro- vided with India-rubber pontons or floats, which were used in the con- struction of bateaus. These pontons when inflated are cylindrical in form with the ends shaped somewhat like the bow of a boat. Each Dontoa is twenty feet in length, twenty inches in diameter, and is in tliree compartments. There are loops on each side of the pontons for the purpose of fastening them together, and loops on the top to which ])ole8 may be attached to stiffen the bateaus. The following figures will show the construction of the pontons and the method of joining thein together : 90/trt. 1 1 1 / \ ° □ □ □ :/ =\ ■■ r \° in □ □ □ °/ 16 \ :/.„ Side view o( the ponton collapsed. «/««». l^r><>^->H}^^> Cross section of bateau. The pontons are fastened together either by straps or ropes — ■straps are the better. The poles are also strapped on, being fastened to the outer loops. Notches are cut on the poles, or staples driven in, to prevent the straps from slipping. Poles are run through the loops at the ends of tlio pontons, which assist to stiffen the bateaus. A canvas deck is stretched over the bateaus to protect the India-rubber cloth. The weight reijuired to submerge a bateau is about 2,600 pounds for each ponton. A bateau intended to transport a wagon re([uirc8 five pontons. Tliese will safely bear the wagon, its load, and as much more of ordinary freight as there is room for. In a perfect arrange- ment a platform would be used to support the wagon, but, where trau.i- 11. Ex. Doc. 65- ■lY i»rtii*(n«mji.!j,^.,!"W,. mm 2r)8 AFFAIRS IK OREGON. ^'k: '4 ■ ■tf '%m, '' I'.S portation is limited, ihree or four short planks placed transversely and two placed lengthwise are sufficient. These, with two planks to run the wagon on and off the bateaus, are all that are absolutely neces- sary. Much time, howpver, would be saved by a more perfect arrange- ment. In crossing streams with a moderate current paddles may be used, hut, where the current is swift, a rope is necessary. At the crossing of the Des Chutes river, which is about eighty yards ■wide, a rope one inch in thickness was securely fastened to a tree on the opposite side of the river. The other end of this rope, the length of which was considerably greater than the width of the stream wag attached to the batetiu which was connected with our side by a smaller rope. In this way, by paying out the small rope, the loaded kteau was carried over by the force of the current alone. The empty bateau was hauled back by a yoke of oxen ; with one bateau the whole com- mand, of nearly three hundred men, thirty wagons, with their loads and a large quantity of additional freight was ferried over in three days, with frequent interruptions from the swimming of animals at the ferry. One accident occurred, the upretting of a wagon ; the cause of this was, that the bateau, as at firtt used, coiisisted of only four pontons, and was found to be too narrow to afford the requisite stability. An additional ponton was added, and, for greater security part of the load taken from each wagon and placed beneath it. The wagon covers were taken off, as they presented a large surface to the wind ; after this no difficulty was experienced. The arrangement was intended originally to be used with a pack train, in reference to the contemplated expedi*J.on against the northern Indians last iall,butin the bauds of one who has used them wagons can be crossed safely and rapidly. The average weight of a ponton collapsed is ninety-six pounds, and with the straps^ a pair of bellows, and the canvass-bag in which it is carried, about one hundred and six pounds. The entire weight of a bateau of five pontons, with its platform and the planks for running the wagons on and off the bateau, is about one thousand three hun- dred and fifty pounds. This, with the necessary rope, is, in ordinary circumstances, a light load for one wagon. If this ponton equipage were to be prescribed for general use, one wagon should be used exclu- sively for its transportation, and this wagon would be so constructed as to admit of its being taken apart and used as a platform. Wi^H a pack train four pontons are sufficient for one fe-ry, andean easily be carried on four mules with all the appurtenar, is, rope ex- cepted. The engineer det^.chraent was also provided with two India- rubber boats, each ten feet long. These consist of India-rubber covers stretched over extension frames. On each side is a cylinder which, Vvhen inflated, gives great buoyancy and stability. They were not used on the expedition, s.3 it was found that the ponton bateau answered the purposes of a boat much better than they. Three pontons makes very excellent boat. Two of them, in the hands of an Indian, are equal to a canoe. The pontons were also used to construct a bridge over a slough about twenty fipet wide, which was too deep to be forded. As we had not sufficient plank lor a flooring, the pontons were covered with wil- AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 259 transversely and vo planks to run absolutely neces- 5 perfect arrange- t paddles may be sary. bout eighty yards ,ened to a tree on J rope, the length f the stream, wag r side by a smaller the loaded bateau The empty bateau au the whole com- , with their loals, ried over in three oing of animals at of a -wagon; the [, cousisted of only ifford the requisite or greater security, 1 beneath it. The large surface to the le arrangement was in reference to the ans last lall, but in e crossed safely and ety-six pounds, and 8-bag in which it is B entire weight of a planks for running housand three hua- ope, is, in ordinary lis ponton equipage lould be used exclu- d be so constructed platform. r one fe-ry, andean irtenar. is, rope ex- led with two India- India-rubber covers 8 a cylinder which, by. They were not [ton bateau answered ree pontons make a 8 of an Indian, are lows and grass ; earth was thrown over thera, and the bridge answered every purpose. The pack mules went over it loa'^ed. One horse iuniiied off the bridge, being frightened by the undulating motion which is inseparable from b'-idgesof this kind. All the other streams that we crossed during the expedition were fordable at the season of th^ year when we reached them. I am, eir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. C. HOUSTON, Second Lieutenant Engineers. Opt. H. D. Wallen, ith Infantry, Cormnandinoi Wagon Road Expedition to Salt Lake. 75. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, January 18, 1859. General: Tour letter of the 6th ultimo^ enclosing a charge and specification .igainst First Lieutenant Joshua W. Sill, ordnance corps, was duly laid before the Secretary of War, and I now have the honor to transmit a copy of "Special Orders" No. 8 of this date from the W»r Department, appointing a general court-martial for the trial of that officer. Be pleased to cause the accompanying parcel containing a copy of ♦'Special Orders" No. 8, and the charge exhibited against Lieutenant Sill, to be handed to the officer selected by you to serve as judge advocate of the court. The Secretary of War conceives that as Lieutenant Sill is charged with important public duties involving the expenditure of a consider- able amount of government funds, the period of his arrest should be limited to the time occupied in his trial. I am, sir, very respectiully, your obedient servant, S. COOPER, Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. \V. S. Harnei, Commanding Department o/ Oregon, Fort Vancouver, W. T. 76. The Adjutant General to General Harney. Adjutant General's Office, Washington, February 7, 1860. Sir: The Secretary of W«>' has considered your application to bring Lieutenap*^ De Hart to a court-martial, and General Scott's order to you to release him from arrest. »>• mn n\ I ',tP' 2G0 UTAIBS IN OREGOX. II Tlic Secretary perceives that the liettenant has committed a (rrayg Lreach of'dif^cipliut' in assuming to i.iakc <; lieutenant had ^.i. )od cause to complain of the ordern without he !', ,>l ; ofc merited censure, and Miat your reprimand ■was not in a propei .stvle. The Secretary regrets to be comi)elleil to express his disapprobH-lion of it, and he does cot see that he can reverse the decision of the general-i-i-chief. The Secretary observes that you take ii ) notice of the matter refern i to you for explanation , viz : your furlougy a to the enlisted men reportei'. to be employed in your private service. (le desires to have au ex))lana- tion from you in regiiid to those ...narges. I am, sir, very resj'ectfully, your obedient servat;?;, 8. COOPf.R, A(}i^invi Gtmrai. Brig. Ge.!. W. S. Harney, U. 8. Army, Cummandhfj Department of Oregon, Fort rancouver, Washington. Territory fV ■:- ;;f; '!"?, Colmel C»r<^ to th^. Adjutant General. ORDrTANCE Office, Washinyton, February 25, 1860, Sib : After rarefwIV*? readiDj» General Harney's letter in relatioa i, the site f*f an arsenal near VaRcouver, with the enclosures therein ref'vred by you to this otfice, I return them with the foUowini^ rent;:3!piies at thede ter to him fron. Huch aiK. ." ■ ' as the necessities of the service may require, by erecting cj-tain tora- tioiary liuildings, to bo superseded by permanent ones wh(3ii a title to the reserve shall be acquired. This precaution was takei to avoid the iiossilde loss to the; government of valuable buildings and improve- ments, in case the land on which they were built sbc.ild be hereafter .ui'iish'ed to belong to others. After his arrival at V.tncouver's depot, I>;'h>tian' Welcker reported to this office, by letter dated August 1, 185'') ('I'^'d I'nclosed herewith,) that a portion of the site for the arsenal (twenty acres) which had been added to the original reserve was cli!in'"d 1'/ ''^* ■ ^^ three citizens under the donation law, and that he hfi:l iakei. .;,. 'sures for obtaining from the Hudson's Bay Company a finit-claim to the ground set aside for the arsenal site. He then, for the lii'st time, mentioned and recommended as a desirable site, superior to the orit" which luul been set aside for the puri)ose, General Harney's tract, w'licli le stated to be subject to the possessory rights of the Iidiison s Ba} Company, like the rest of the land in that vicinity. Ho staled i'.'at General Harney was willing to transfer this tract to the f ■ "minfie department at its cost, supposed to be $1,200 or $1 ,500, and bUi.-equenfJy corrected, by a letter dated Sci)tembor 1, 1859, stating tliat it was about twice that amount. General Harney, on the 12th of October following, informed Lieutenant Welcker that the amount uas $;),180. Lieutenant Welcker's letter of the 1st of August, 1859j was answered by the letter to him from this office of September 15, 18511, informing liim that ho could neither purchase General Harney's tract nor erect thereon any buildings but tlie most temporary shelter ibr ordnance stores and employes until after a deed of conveyance to the United States had been executed and pronounced valid and satis- factory hy the Attorney General ; but that he might, if ho, on the spot, saw no ohjectiou to it, lease the tract at a reasonable rent from General Ibirney for a term to the end of his lease from the Hudson's Bay Company, and might erect thereon the necessary temporary struc- tures. Before the letter of the 15th of September, 1850, from the Ordnance office to Lieutenant Welcker could have reached him, that otlicer. as will be seen by his letter herewith enclosed, dated October 15, lS5'.t, had taken possession of General Harney's tract by his per- mission and authority, if not at his instance, (as the letter will ex- plaii- th the assurance that he had vi iloiibt that the War Depart- ment (Voifid take the place. Tiie conditions on which that possession was taken were, that riieufenant Welcker hhonld hold undisturbed control and possession until informed by the CoLtnel of Ordnance whether ii was the intentiou of the War Department to purchase the tract w'Mi its improvL>inents or not ; that if the purchase was deter- mined niHin, (jreneral Harney should give a valid and perl'ect title, suhject oidy to the possessory rights of the 'hidson's Bay Cora[»any, for tlie sum of .S'>,4S0 ; that if ■ ' ■ j'U .'-ha^n was not determined upon, or if t'hi' Hudson's Piay Con;. A\y failed to give a (|uil-claim for their possessiiry rights, iiie true: ni land was to he vacated, and it^' posses- sion re-t(ired to General !■ irney, oi" his a;.';ont ; and that -n tlie event of nnn-purehase, the I'nited States were to be at no charge or exn^nje in consequence of the agreement. — (See agreement herewith-, dated UMPM'' Mj.,ki- ■; - ■.'MHauMn I ■ 2G2 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. i •■,' ■[■ I \ !? JM- 'i% m:-\'. i^mi 1 Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory, October 8, 1859.) The au- thority to lease having been previously given to Lieutenant Welcker by my letter of September 15, 1859, no reply was deemed necessary to his letter of October 15, 1859, and none was made. Wlien m\- letter of the 15th of September reached Lieutenant Welcker, heaban- doned and turned over to General Harney the tract which had been conditionally taken possession of, regarding the instructions in that letter as disapprc.ing of a ])urcha80 of that tract. He so reported to this office by his letter of the Ist of November, 1859, herewitli en- closed, iu which he also reports that he is making the necessary tem- porary arrangements for sheltering the public property and employes on the arsenal reserve, and that as we are to retain the reserve tliere would be no advantage, but the reverse, in renting General Harney's place. Lieutenant Welcker's operations in the erection of any build- ings were arrested by General Harney's order of the 21st of Decem- ber, lh'59, which is among the papers accompanying his letter referred by you to this office. The foregoing summary of the facts in this case is given to enable the proper authority to judge how tar General Harney may be justi- fied in the course he has pursued, and in the harsh and opprobrious imputation he has cast upon Lieutenant Welcker in his letter .,) you. I can see nothing in Lieutenant Welcker's course of conduct to justify the use of such language respecting him. The error of that officer was in proceeding to take possession of General Harney's tract, and to make arrangements for its occupancy, before receiving an answer to his letter of August 1, 1859, suggesiing a change of the site which had been previously selected anc: set apart for the purpose, and the extent of that error is to be judged in connexion v/ith the ajjency of General Harney in the matter, as reported in Lieutenant Welcker's letter of the 15th of October, 1859. He was not directed to make a lease, but only intrusted with authority to do so if he saw no objec- tion to it. No purchase of General Harney's tract could or can be legally made without a law authorizing such purchase, and there is no such law ; nor could or can any contract to that effect he made under the 904th paragraph of Array Regulations. The course of Gen- eral Harney, in stopping the erection of buildings at the ordnance depot in Washington Territory, without directions for the pur- pose from the War Department, is in direct violation of the rej];ula- tion of tliat department of 7th April, 1843, published from the Adju- tant General's office on the 8th of that month, which is in these words; "To prevent any conflict from arising among the different corps of the army in relation to (juarters, barracks, arsenals, &c., tlie Sec- retary of War has laid down the following rules, wliich will govern all cases, except where a deviation may, under spcciol circumstances, he found necessary, when directioi;s for the purpose will be given by the War Department: 1. Arsenals, being under the control of the Ordnance department, will not be interfered with by any other branch of the service;" which regulation was reiterated in the 2d article of the ordnance regulations prepared in accordance with the act of Congress of February 8, 1815, and i)ublished by the Secretary of War for the government of all concerned, and has not been repealed. AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 263 559.) The an- cnant Welcker 'raecl necessary ie. When luy dicker, he aban- .rhich had been •uctions in that e 80 reported to 9, herewith en- necessary tera- ;y and employes lie reserve tliere eneral Harney's on of any huild- I 2l8t of Deceni- .is letter referred 1 given to enable ley may be justi- and opprobrious Ilia letter .o you. conduct to justify or of that officer rney's tract, and eiving an answer ange of the site the purpose, and v/ith the afjency tenant Welcker's irected to make a he saw no objec- t could or can be lase, and there is at effect he made le course of Gen- at the ordnance ns for the pur- on of the res^ula- 1 from the Adju- 18 in these words: different corps of lis, &c., the Sec- lich will govern circumstances, be be given by the 1 of the Ordnance ler branch of tlie 2d article of the _ act of Congress tary of War for ipealcd. I request that this report may be laid before the Secretary of War, or whornsoevtT the letter of General Harney may be submitted to, and 1 unite with him in requesting early attention to the case. Very respectfully, your obeilient servant, H. CRAIO, Colonel of Ordnance, Col. S. COOI'KR, Ailjulant General U. S. Army. 77 a. Vancouver Depot, W. T., August 1, 1859. Colonic: I have the honor to report my arrival at this post on the night of the 2()th of July past. I have relieved Lieutenant 8ill of the charge of the stores and funds and the command of the detachment, which consists of an actincj sergeant and three men. I find a small cabin on the ordnance reserve, erected by Lieutenant 8ill, with the assistance of the detachment, in wliich are quartered the two unmarried men, while the acting sergeant has erected another, at his own expense, near the first. The remaining siddier, \Yith his iaruily, is in the village of Vancouver, where he pays reat, he informs me, at the rate of eight dollars a month. Lieutcnan'^ Sill has no quarters at all, but is permitted, by the kindness of Mr. Graham, to have rooms in Hudson's 13ay Company's fort. The sauie courtesy has been extended to me. V>)' reference to the map of this reserve, you will perceive a twenty- acre tract, in addition to the portion of the original tract set aside for ordnance jjurposcs by General Wool. This addition I made myself, when stationed here before, by order of Lieutenant Colonel Kipley. It is a panUlelogram, with its length perpendicular to the main body of the reservation. I learn, since ray arrival, that these twenty acres are claiiiieil by two citi/.ens, and perhaps a third, under the donation law. This ground was so shaped as to take in the continuation, as far as convenient, of a beautiful bench, upon which the officers' quarters of Fort A'ancouver are situated, and is, in my opinion, almost essen- tial to tlie building of the arsenal. This bench continues parallel to the Columbia river, about half a mile distant, for a mile or two. Be- tween it and the river there is low ground, much of which is subject to overflow in high water, and from it backwards the plateau is covered with fir timber. I have had an informal interv'- ." vith James A. Graham, esq., a chief trader in the Hudgon's L- jmpany, and representative of I 9 yiis 4' V ,_»; 264 AFFAIRS IN ORKQON. I 'i 1': ;l !'• ji iiii their intoreatH liorc, ami proposed to liiin to j^ivo tlio ordnance depart- ment a (lult-clHiin to the f,'ruiind set asiiU- for an ursenal. Ifc v/ould or coiihl not <;;ivo me a decided reply himself, hut requeHted 1113 to address hiui a letter on the suhject, which I have done ; nnd ho promifses to consult Mr. Dallas, the aj^ent for their coinpiiny in tiiis region, when he j^oes to Victoria shortly, and thinks it prubable tht^y may he ahle to give mo an answer, t>inn'^h it is not improhahle thu: the matter will have to he refei il ■> ■'^n 'oorge Simpson, in Ciinadi' General ILirney lias a tr'i.i of ii'') .i/res of land, lying about one mile east of Fort Vancou^-ii , which is his private pr(i])erty, siibjerf however, to the possessor}' rights of the Hudson's Bay Conipiiny, like the rest of the land in this vicinity, which tract he proposes to turn over to the ordnancu department for an arsenal site. It is on the continuation of the hench referred to ahove, and would he known to Colonel Kipley hy th( name of the " Dunda- '' idacc There is a fence enclosing one-half of the trai : ; a house of wood plankg intended for a stable and ham, hut which is now occu[)ied as lodir. ings by some men ; and there is in proce.^u of erection a dwellin". house of plankh;, with kitchen attached. This land, and tlie improve. ments on it, I u . Jerstand from the general, he is willirig to transfer to the ordnance tlepartnient, if desired, at cost, which, lu; told me, he thought was near §1,200 or $1,500. I examined the siiot, and I think it would he advantageous to the department to purchase, for I do not think the United States can possibly i)at up on the jiresent reserve the same improvements for anything like the sum which,] understand, the land and improvements both can he procured for; and the situation I think superior to the pre.'-ent one, because much more handsome, having fine ornamental trees on it, and a heautitiil view from it. It is separated from the town and lorl., whicli 1 think very important, and no portion of it is claimed by any other i)erson, I am told hy General Harney that ho has a lease from tlie Hudson's Bay Company for five years, at five dollars a year. General Harney directed me to send him a communication, stating whether I thought the place desirable for an arsenal, and my reasons, which I did. I transmit a copy of the document. H" intends sending it, with his remarks, to the Sec-jtary of War, and I j)resunie it will goon this mail. The delay necessary f r yuur ('ecision t.i arrive here, if made by return mail, (wliich I reSj- tfuli^ oeg may ■ „■ the cas",) will not he more time, nor so much, as it would have taken nic to put up similar improvements ; bcbides, I am awaiting the answci from the Hudson's Bay Company. I believe 1 have .stuted my view, on this subji . I clearly, and I sub- mit it to your sujiurior judgment to decide ; lint I ii()pe I will Li, excused if 1 take the liberty of recommending i. the strongest man- ner that the dei)arttuent will make an iiv njdiatt decision for it or against it, as delay is very much to -je de| »• 'ed, nil nothing cau le done until I hear from you. In the meauliiue the iffairs of the depot and the interests of the ordnance service are in a very bad way; no pro] ■ storehouse for the stores ; no sufficient quarters for even the small detachments here ; none for myself; no means of repairs ; 'jAi AFFAIRS IN OREGON. 2C5 lio ordnance ilopart- ursenal. Ho would lit roqiicstcd tuo to mvc (lone ; and ho .Ml- ciiiniiany in tiiin nka it probable thev lot iini)r()l)a1)le tli,. SimpHon, in Ciinadi. ad, lying about one tc pro])crty, sulijct, Hiiy Com[)iiny, like ho proposes to turn [ Hite. It is on the would bo kiKiwa to ■ti. ' I dace. There UHO ot wood i)ianks, ow occa[)ied as lode erection a dwelling- [id, and the imp rove- is Willi rig to transfer .rbicli, be told me, he ned the spot, and I lent to purchase, for at up on tho present ike the sum wli:ch,I can be procured for; lit one, because much Ml it, and a beautiiiil d tort, which I think by any other person, from tlie Hudson's General Harney i<; whether I thought ins, which I did. I sendinj; it, with his lie it will go on this arrive hero, if made the cati >,) will not iiken me to jmt up the answer from the clearly, and I sub- mt I iiope 1 will Iv, ibe ytrongest imin- decisiim for it or !i 1 nothing,' can lie ifalrs of the depot lu a very bad wnv; nt (juarters for even ;io means of repairs ; of niakinf,' ammunition ; and tho old storehouRO which T ve totally uii'Miarded, ah 1 have not men enough yet to do that dvit , ReHiicctfully. your obedient servant, ' WM. 8. WKLCKEB, First Lietit. Ordnance, Commandiug Vancouvtr Depot*. Colonel H. K. Craio, Chkf of Ordnance, Washington, D. C, p_ f;;. — Will the colonel please inform rao whether tho War Depart- ment has con(i' mod the ordnance reserve, and iiarticularly tho twenty lores additional, and how to proceed with respect to the claimants to it? Is the reservation on tho Willamette river of twenty acres still in pos- session of the Ordnance or War Department ? I do not think it n good 1 iisition any bow, as it is up a small river not navigable for large shi p8. The Cascades of the Columbia is in many re8])ect8 a goo(' position for an arsenal, hut has an objection which I think insu])erable — its groat thimpness. It '/< in the mountains, whose tops collect and retain the ehiuds which come up from tho sea ; and the rains there are nuich lieavier than elsewhere in this region, making a bad place for powder nia"a/.ines and stores of arms. The title to the post cserve is there also disputed by several citizens. Vancouver was seh vted by Colonel Kiiiley, and I think is the best place. I must again urge upon the (kpartnient the nece ity of prompt decision as to whether General Harney's jdace be taken or the present reserve ', both are clatiued by the Hudson's Bay Company. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. WELCKER, Firat Lieutenant Ordnance, Colonel H. K. C' '■' / !' a United StntcH arscnftl; said liioutcnant Wolckor to liave and hold undisturbed control and posHcsHion until Huch time as he hIkiU Iw ju. forniod by llio CJolonel of Ordiumco wliether it in tlio intention of tho War Uopartinent to purchase tho said tract of land, with ilM improve- mentM, or not. Second. In case the purchaso in determined upon, General Harnoy is to give to the United States a j^ood and perfect title to the said luntl Bubject only to the possessor) r.ghts of the Hudson's Bay Company' lor and in consideration of the sum of money which said land and improvements havo cost him, and which sum is three thousand tour hundred and eighty dollars. Third. If the purchasr bo not determined upon, or if it be refused by the War Department, then Lieutenant VVelcker and the soldierii under his command are to vacate the premises, and deliver .tliein to General Harney or his agent; and also, if the authorities of the Hud- eon's Bay Company shall fiail to give to the United Htates a (piit-ckini of their possessory rights to said tract of land, then Lieutenant Welcker is to vacate said premises and restore tho possession to Gen- eral Harney, or the person whom he shall appoint to receive them. Fourth. It is understood that if the United States do not purchase the said tract of land, they are to be at no charge or expense in con- seuuence of tliis arrangement. WM. S. HARNEY, Brigadier Geveral United States Army. W. T. WELUKER, First Lieutenant Ordnance. Fort Vancouver, W. T. October 8, 1859. i- 11 c. m- '\ >y- i i^ Vancouver Depot, WasMivjion Territory, October 15, 1859. Colonel : I have tho honor to report that I and ray detachment are quartered at General Harney's place This arrangement has been made provisionally, and subject to your approval. General Harney sent for me towards the end of last month, and said that his improve- ments were near finished, and if I chose I could occupy the place at once, as lie did not doubt the War Department would take the place, As two of the men had no quarters at all, but were paying rentinthe town wliile working for the United States, and as the others were not so well {quartered as they could be at the above-mentioned place, and all scattered, none being near where I was staying, I thoui^ht it well to accept the offer, sul)ject to your approval, and on the condition that there should be no charge against the United States. I enclose a copy AFFAina IN ORKOOK. 207 ir to have and luild ]w. the intention of tho il, with ilM improve- on, General Hariit'y itlo to the Hiiid luml, lon'H Bay CDiiip'iny, rhich Hiiiil land iinil three thousand four a, or if it be refused ker and the soldiers and deliver .them to ithorities of tho Hud- id States a quit-claim id, then Lieutenant he poHseHsion to Gen- it to reeoive them, tates do not purchase ge or expense in con- 5. HARNEY, fnited States Amtj. WELCKER, iutenant Onlnmcc. bcouvER Depot, October 15, 1859. d ray detachment are rrangement has been jal. General Harney Laid that his improve occupy the place at Iwould take the place. ^re paying rent in the L the others were not [uentioned place, and Ing, I thought it well on the condition that ,te3. I enclose a copy hhc articles of ftgrecment. The Hum of money which is demanded V tlie owriiM tor the place — §;{,4H() — waH inserted Hiiico the artielea u'ere »i''u^'''i "*^ ''*' ^'"'^ time ho said he did not know the amount. The dwelling-hoUHO is of fir timber weather boardinjj, and is in two narts: 'lie nuiin house and an h. The first part has two rooms below and twoal)i)ve, with a luill below and one above ; two brick chimneys, and the rooms and balls papered. Tho " L" part has a large dining- room, il piuitry room, kitchen, and servants' room, and detached sink. The hir" <"' "'"^de is a plank house, 24 by 18 feet, and two stories hii'h. Almut twenty acres are enclose'y little enlisting. I Ciinnot get n echanics, even the least accomplished, to think of it. I vould conseijuently request you to have men sent out from the Atlan- tic hide. And I think fifteen men are not sufficient for the guard and polioeof tlu; e.stablishment. H'one or two men go on the sick report, there could be no means of keeping up a guard, even if 1 had fifteen en. ,My storehouse is in a very unsafe situation, and has been robbed nee or twice. 1 think that foi'ty or fifty ordnance soldiers could be «niphiyed in future at this station, to tiie interest and economy of the [guvernment. For the present, Major John V. Reynolds, of the artil- ■ ;i J '■'i ].: : - i. i!i ■>■■*.,'] ■t. 2G8 AFFAIRS IN OREGON. lerj', has etatloiiccT a Fentinol ovor my storehouse. This is onlv atem. porary accommodation, however. Eeypectiully, your obedient servant, WM. T. WELCKER, First Lieutenant of Ordnonce, Colonel H. K. Craig, Chief of Ordnance, WasJiinglon, D. C. P. >S. — Since \vritin^es wliiclil have purchased, saddle and harness rooms, &c., &c. As Si)on as these buildings are finished I shall proceed, as the weatlier [lertnits, to i)ut u[) s-liops, a laboratory, and a lence arouad tlie [)ai t of the reserve u[)on which the bu'hJings will be. The t'tnce will be near a mile and a hull" in extent necessarily, and will bo an item of some expense, though made in the cheapest manner. I must beg you, cidonel, to excuse a detailecl plan and estimates hii' tliese purposes, ;is, in the press of business, I cannot prep:U'e them be- fore the mail goes, and time presses. t',