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Corii^^Ek Stone CerI'Mony IK tKE HriECT»ON 01 1 THE BRA NT MEMORIAL, j 886 ("il rlMILIGN & ■S3CS-- ti' /■•--^ ^:ti.v^..,i.ifti "^ ~=ji^-_. Wti Itifi most t:^f;ttnrive ia Osouda of uoy '-■"^^%ir:-i ht'UB'-; «ie>'ot»d oxolaaJ/.i!}- to the V/ic>> ftnd -vi;^ Spirit Tftidft, be? iqlJS i'aet- ia Abp'^R and 67 Jf»ef-!U widl.il. Ji; thuir \TftnlfcB Uifc Morftd ib« ftiuvite stoclf ri WIjlcs yrodaced by f,h.ift' fwM^i ' '•■"• '''*^' *iP»e«P'*'^:^;0i ,'^^ooinnietirtu in i.OT, ana siao* 16V6, Mr..J. S, J^.p ^v ,-. — ;»'^ 'i^ -A.'imnillnji lias boen t;ie Hoift ji^'.rtiipr. An - «... ^v - >«^ - '"^J 1 1 f< '$ ^3!.' 1 ^ :i mhL >.*rwt cf t>ui Teleo Ifilai.3 ^'ineynwu' Wir;«. -.n uaiie bv jN^f^iHra, J. S. 'H, & (.'q., at t^.r^ j^'I'-jludi n (lad ('olocial Bxlir»Uinjj in Tjo)i..;S, !)pUlifc'baYen, '•:Iol- ftud, \Viiliain Youngei y« Go.," Edinburgii, &:^ A. Mftlij^a. a & Co., Cidija'a;, H, %';ui iJiOler, -;:%' Ope rt« P. G, Koaa, Beu Wyvis Di^tilii.ry, -j;^ J)i.i«viU, H. T)ioir»pacn & Co., ISewiy:, i^alTiiJ'Api ur .?^ Co., Bocdeans, loois LatDcr, ^•! i'o! i"- ", i'Var-oe. Seuebt;;^ Uoiiiaf.<), B -tin i\ic-b, .,.j^^^£li»z «>',&o.. FtiU Jinos. a,'t; ouiti^flof a}! '-^^f ^^i'Ji^-^-'- "^S '.Kfe fi\m'b gooHri, and ord' ..■ re 'lolicit'ifi' for ii'-'cc ie'ipfff.afio'i. !19 and 12.1 Dalbcusie Bi , - BKANTFOBD,. CANADA. '««» Vv . l\ C()(.:,-K,8ilUTT &. C'o. imtdkte;';-^ n^ rmis AMD ■ pocK&T cmimt IN EVEE'^' BTYI.^. . \.., Si? Genuine >^irKei Silver and^-BJocti'o Pjnte n> lpooi)3, Forks grid deQeral 'Egi)]3-ware, Vir;itoi*s in Brrntfiard woiud do yi\dl io Inep..' ' ■ om Btock. OOLBORNK i?T., BRAN'lPOEa dti of any V/iooi ftttd :»"n and 57 , hy fchft rxA miness wiw» •ft, My. J. 8.. rtaor. An awih' Wice (.'o., at tlitt in Tjofidca )repQx:t8 fu' . Jr. & Gt<., ' Vim iJeUer, I)i*tiUf.ry, *., ^■e■w^J,, lis LatDor, irief^l of aU MADA. o... ni 'd^dik: »-"■ ■ ...4U|»V-1,„ ^ ,^.. jl . TifiiYrcjsri)iijNrEqEii. Press of Watt & Shenston. THE LIFE OP CAPT. JOSEPH BRANT (THAYENDANEGEA,) BV i^E-Gijii-ii.iT-qiitf-]V[K-Qi;ii. AN ACCOUNT OF HIS KE INTERMENT AT ]\10HAWK, 1850. AND OK THE CORNER STONE CEREMONY IN THE ERECTION OF The Brant Memorial, 1886. REVISED, NEWLY ILLUSTRATED AND PUBLISHED BY B. H. RoTHWELL, - Bookseller, MARKET STREEl, B1^1V]^T¥01^D, - 0]SrTilI{IO. M SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF Captain Joseph Brant, (THAYENDANEGEA.) BY KE-CHE-AH-GAH-ME-QUA. ^VEli since the ndvent of tlie European to American soil, nearly four centuries ago, the extermination of tlie Indian tribes and nations has been going on. With the exodus of Europeans in America came death to the numerous aboriginal tribes. In South America we cannot number the nations extirpated by the Spanish conqueror. History gives but a faint idea of the number of red men who, in North America, have passed away before the cruel hand of war. Diseases before unknown to the Indian have likewise carried off their thousands. The gain to the nations of the world in the steady march of civilization westward, has not been counterbalanced by a corresponding improvement in the condition of the American Indian. Disinherited of their lands, in the majority of cases by foul means, the Indians to-day find themselves stripped of all but a miserable fragment of their once glorious patrimony, and the inheritors of the many devices and diseases of their white exter- minators. We owe a long debt of gratitude to the poor Indian. It is high time for Christian philanthropists to think of their duty to the few remaining tribes of red men ; and while studying the forms whicli tlie human intel^ lect has developed among then), interpose to raise and elevate them in the scale of civilization. 6 LIFK OF Many brij^ht oxaniplcs are on record ])rovinarly promiso of those emincMit ((ualities which were developed in the |)ioj,M'('Hs of H lifo of varied and important action. About the year 1700, after enj^'aginj; with Sir W. Johnson in several campaigns of tiie bloody FnMich war, he was placed by his patron in an institute in Lob- anon, Connecticut, oalhul the iMoore School, to receive an English educa- tion. It is an interesting fact that Sir W. Johnson subsecjuently married Molly Brant, a sister of Joseph. After leaving *t!ie seminary, where he attained considerable proficiency in the rudiments of education, he again engaged in active warfare, and was employed in the war with Pontiac and the Ottawas, the particulars of which struggles are not recorded. In the year 1705, he married the daughter of an Oneida chief, and settled in his own house in the Mohawk valley. Here, for some years, he spent a quiet life, acting as interpreter between his people and the whites, and lending his aid to nu.ssionaries in teaching the Tiulians. Brant was noted for his liospitality. About this tinie the conversion and civilization of the Indians engaged much atten- tion. Sir W. Johnson and the liev. Mr. Inglis drew the attention of the Society for the Propjigation of the (xospel to the necessity of having mis- sionaries of the Church of England resident among the Mohawks. In 1 770 the Society ordained a missionary exclusively for the Mohawks, with his residence at Fort Hunter. The Rev. John Stuart was the clergyman selected for this arduous and self-denying work. Capt. Brant assisted Mr. Stuart in the translation of a portion of the New Testament. Dr. Stuai't wi'ites concerning this labor as follows : " During the winter of 1771, I first became acquainted with Capt. Brant. He lived at the Mohawk village, Canajohaire, about thirty miles distant from Fort Hunter. On my first visit to the village where he lived, I found him comfortably settled in a good house, with everything necessary for the use of his family, which consisted of two children — a son and a daughter — with a wife in the last stage of consumption. His wife died soon after, on which he came to Fort Hunter and resided with me a considerable time, in order to assist me in adding additional translations to the Indian Prayer-book." Dr. Stuart further intimates that the work accomplished in the way of translation consiste^J of the Gospel of St. Mark, part of the Acts of the Apostles, a short history of the Bible, with a concise expla- nation of the Church Catechism. Tlie son referred to in the above letter was Isaac, who died at Burlington Heights, near the city of Hamilton, in the year 1795 ; the daughter, Christina, married Aaron Hill, a catechist in the English Church. Christina died at the Mohawk village Brantford. LIFK OP In the winter of 1772-3, Brant applied to Dr. Stuart to marry him to the half-sister of liis deceased wife, arguing after the manner of white widowers wishing to form a like connection, " that the fact of the rela- tionship would secure a greater degree of love and tenderness for the children." The Episcopal clergyman refused on account of the forbidden relationship, when a less scrupulous German ecclesiastic gratified his desire by performing the ceremony. It was about this time Thayendanagea became the subject of serious religious impressions. He became a thorough-going churchman, enter- tained a high respect for missionaries and the Word of God, and attended the celebration of the Eucharist regularly. From his serious deportment and the anxiety ho manifested for the civilization and christianization of his people, great hopes were entertained by his religious friends of iiis future usefulness to the church The camp, however, is not the best university for the development of the christian graces. Seldom has tlie militaiy liero thrown aside the sword for the pen or the pulpit. Brant was always a high-minded, generous man, and, as such, set a noble example to his people. Had it not been for the counteracting influence of his war education, no doubt his after life would have exhibited more of the chris- tian than tlie military hero. In the year 1771 commenced the upheaving of those elements which terminated in the revolutionary war between (Jreat Britain and the American Colonies. The Indians being a powerful body both parties deemed it politic and necessary to negotiate for tlieir services. Brant from his attachment to his late noble patron. Sir W. Johnson, who died in 1774, determined, with liis warriors, to adhere to his son-in-law, Col. Guy Johnson, and. when the Col. fled westward to avoid American cap- ture. Brant, with his principal men followed. Col. Guy Johnson appointed him his secretary. After discussing the policy they sliould pursue, Johnson proceeded to the Mohawk witli a, strong body of Indians. Brant now took a decided stand in favor of tlie royal cause, and, through all the subsequent campaigns of this deadly strife, evinced his strong and sincere adherence to the British crown. The Six Nations lost their extensive and fertile country, now the garden of the State of New York, through this attachment. , About this time Brant was made Principal War Chief of the Confed- eracy. It is not quite clear how lie arrived at this dignity. Hendric was the last of tlie Mohawk chiefs who bore the title of king. He fell under Sir W. Johnson twenty years before, and was succeeded by " Little Abraham," a supposed brother of Hendric, of whom no further mention CA AIN JOSEPH BKANT. 9 is made, excepting that he refused to accompany Hrant and Guy Johnson, in their flight from the Mohawk Valley. It is likely that force of circum- stances faciliated lirant's advancement, such as his military distinctions, his descent from a family of chiefs and his oilicial connection with the Johnson family. As our Indian hero had now become a principal per- sonage in these troublesome times, the title of Captain was conferred upon him in the ar.uy of the Crown In the autumn of 177.'', Brant embarked with Capt. Tice on his first visit to England. The.pi-ecise object of this visit does not appear. It is probable the sagacious chieftain deemed it prudent, before committing himself too far by taking the Held, to ponder well the cause of " the Great King," lest by an overscrupulous observance of the ancient covenants of his people, he should be leading them to certain destruction. On his first arrival in London he was conducted to the inn called, " The Swain with the two Necks." Lodgings more suitable to his rank were provided ; but he said ; " 1 am treated so kindly I prefer to stay where I am." During this visit he figured at a grand masquerade ball, dressed in the brilliant costume of his nation. His novel and striking appearance drew towards him much observation from the ladies. An amusing incident here hap- pened. In the midst of the festivities, tJie Mohawk Chief flourished his war-club and raising the war-whoop, so frightened his admirers that they rushed wildly out of the room, tumbling down stairs in the greatest con- fusion. The visit confirmed him in his attachment to the British Crown. In the spring of 1776 he returned to America, landing secretly near New York. The disturbed state of tlie country rendered this precaution necessary. While in England, Brant procured a gold flnger-ring with hi.s name engraved thereon, stating that he intended the same should provide evidence of his identity in case he fell in any of the battles he anticipated. This ring he wore until his death. It was kept as a precious relic by his wid(.w for four years, when it was lost. Strange as it may seem, duriiig the summer of 1H3G, the identical I'ing was found by a little girl in a ploughed field near Wellington Scjuarc, while the venen^jle Indian Queen was on a visit to her daughter, Elizabeth, the accomplished wife of Col. Kerr. Many efforts were used, and ai'guments urged, to secure Brant's neu- trality, or prevent his joining the Royal standard. .His old tutor, Presi- dent Wheelock, sent him a long epistle on tliis subject, to which Brant ingeniously replied : " I recall to mind, with pleasure, the happy hours I .spent under your voof, and especially the prayers and family devotions to which I listened. One passage in partcular was so often repeated it 10 LIFR OP could never be effaced from my memory, viz : ' That they might he able to live as good subjects, to fear God, and honor the king !'" This letter was sufficient to convince anyone that I-.rant was ilrm in his attachment to the British cause. In June of 1776, Brant visited UnadiJla for the purpose of procuring provisions, which were perforce furnished him. In a conference held at this time, he again expressed himself decidedly in favor of the Royal cause, alluding to old covenants and treaties entered into between the King and his people, and complaining of ill-treatment at tlie hands of the colonists. Shortly after this General Herkimer, of the American militia, started with a strong force for Brant's lieadquarters, upon what terms does not appear. Before the troubles between Great Britain and America, these two men were great friends. The troops that Gen. Herkimer thought proper to bring to this conference, accordingly, were viewed with suspicion by Brant. The chieftain concealed himself for a week, and when the conference was entered into, had a body-guard of five hundred warriors with him. The respective parties met unarmed, and every precaution was taken to prevent treachery. The parley termi- nated unsatisfactori^ J , and another apjiointment was made for the coming morning. Afterwards it was discovered that the General had engaged one Joseph Waggoner, with three associates, to shoot Brant and his three principal men. Whether the chieftain entertained any suspicion of foul play is not certain ; but, as lie entered the circle, he drew himself up with dignity, addressing Gen. Herkimer as follows : " I have live hundred warriors with me, armed and ready for battle. You are in my power. As we have been neighbors and friends, I will not take the advantage of you." Saying which, at a signal, a host of armed warriors darted from t!ie forest, painted, and ready for the onslaught, as their war-whoops too plainly proclaimed. The chief tlien thanked the General for his civility in coming so far to see him, and trusted some day lie might return the compliment. Tlie late Colonel Robert Nelles was a volunteer with the Indians, and present on this occasion. Brant next marched to the British place of rendezvous at Oswego. Here a gi-eat council was held with the representatives of Great Britain The result of this conference was a treaty of alliance between the Indians and the J3ritish. Jn August in 1777, the bloody ])attle of Oriakany wa^ fought. Tlie destruction on both sides was very gre;it. The veteran officer Herkimer liere received his death-wound. Although the Indians were worsted on this occasion the Si.v Nations, with the exception of the Tuscaroras and the Oneidas, re- mained faithful to the king. Brant, aided by Johnson and Butler, used sti'enuous efforts to win over the Indians of the Far West to the royal CAPTAIN JOSKHH UUANT. 11 cause. Failing in all these ofibrts, tli<; chieftain returned to his old ([uarters at Oghkwaga, whore he continued to harass and plunder thfi colonists. In this guerilla warfare Brant a' ways strove to stay the hand uplifted against the feeble and helpless. In his attack on Springiield, for instance, he drove oti' or took prisoners all the men, but concealed in safety the women and children. Early in November, 1778, Brant was reluctantly prevailed upon to leave liis winter quarters at Niagara, and accompany Walter Jiiitler, a man whom he greatly disliked, in an attack on the beautiful and jH'osperous settlement of Cherry Valley, a village defended by fortitication and garrisoned by troops under Col. Alden. The motive that impelled Butler to this expedition was a desire to avenge an imprisonment he had sutiered on the charge of treason. The wholesale slaughter of the inhabitants of this settlement is said to have been feai-ful. The ferocious Senecas spared neither old nor young in their indiscriminate attack. The terrible scenes of the carnage of Cherry Valley cannot be shouldered on Brant, since he held but a subordinate position in the Butler ex[)edition. Eye-witnesses of that dreadful day state that the Mohawk chieftain fretjuently interfered to stay the uplifted tomahawk. Brant, they tell us, made an unsuccessful efibrt to avert the destruction of a family resident in this settlement of the name of Wells, to whom he was strongly attached. One instance out of the many that iiiight be related, will show the a)uiiins which characterized Thayendana- gea throughout the Ciierry Valley slaughter. On entering one of the dwellings of that village he found a woman engaged in her domestic duties, of whom he immediately incjuired : " Are you tluis employed while all your neighbors are murdered around you ?" The woman re- plied : "We are in fa\or of the King." " That plea will not avail you to- day," replied the warrior ; " they have murdered Mr, Wells family, who are as dear to me as my own." " Jiut," continued the woman, "there is one Joseph Brant; if he is with the luclLans he will save us." '"I am Joseph Brant!" was the quick response, "but I have not the com- mand, and I know not that I can save you ; but I will do what is in my power." At the moment of uttering those words lie saw the Senecas approaching. " Get into becPciuick," he commanded 'or, " and feign yourself sick." The woman obeyed. He jmt the Indians oH" with this pretext. Upon their departure, by a shrill signal, he rallied a few of his Mohawks, and directed them to paint his mark upon the woman and her children. " You are now probably saf(!," he remarked, and departed. It is an Indian practice thus to mark their captives ; the known mark of the tribe or chief is a protection from danger at other hands. It will thus 12 Life oh" be seen tliat the word " monster " is entirely inappliujible to Brant in con- nection witli the Clierry Valley slaughter. In the mouths of July and August of 1779, Brant again signalized himself by various successful expeditions, destroying villages, and resist- ing the movements of his pursuers with remarkable skill. With the Iroquois and the Oneidas, Brant liad many a brush. In 1780 he descended again info the Mohawk Valley, this time circulating a report that he was about to attack the forts, for the purpose of obtaining stores. This rumor was only a feint to cause the militia to leave the villages, so that they might the more easily fall into tJie cliieftain's hands. The stratagem proved (miinently successful. I\[ucli property was either taken or destroyed. Women and children were saved and borne into captivity. On one occa- sion Brant returned an infant one of his " braves " had carried off. With the messenger who bore back this child was a letter addressed to the " Commanding Officer of the Rebel Army," in which the chief avers that, " whatever others might do, he made no war upon women and children." In the winter of 1780 Ur.nt married his third wife, Catharine, the oldest daughter of the head chief of the Turtle tribe, tii'st in rank of the Mohawk nation. On the 2-l:th October, 1781, the last engagen\ent of importance con- nected with the Revolutionary War took place. In this battle the notorious W;ilter Rutler was sijot and scalped by an Oneida. Throughout these contests the Indians proved most efficient allies. No one can dis- pute the bravery of the IMohawlc Chief. It may be said of liim, as was said of the lamented General Brock . " His eye was like the eagle's ; his motions like arrows from the bow ; his enemies fell before him as trees before the blast of the Creat Spirit. This cruel war being euded^the tomahawk buried — peace proclaimed — Brant and his people, having dispos(Hl of their territory in the United States, applied to the Mississaugas, Ojebways of the River Credit, Upper Canada, for a portion of their lands. The Ojebways in council, replied : " Brethren, the whole country is before you ; chose you a tract for your- selves, and there build your wigwams, and plant your corn." The Six Nations selected the Grand River tiffct, which, they said, reminded them of the country they had lost ; they offered pay but the Ojebways refused compensation. The Senecas also made an offer of a tract of land to the Mohawks in the valley of the Genesee ; but, as Capt. Brant long after said in one of his speeches, " the Mohawks were determined to sink or swim wit.li the English ; besides they did not wish to continue in the United States." Notwithstanding the constancy and valor of the ; in con- dualized 1(1 resist- ^ith the ascended ,t he was lis rumor ,hat they bratageni estroyed. one occa- r. With sd to the rers that, jliildren." irine, the .ik of tlie ance con- attle the rovighout ) can dis- n, as was gle's ; his 1 as trees roclaimed 10 United lit, Upper I, replied : for your- k-n." The reminded Ojebways ,ct of land Jraut long ed to sink iue in the or of the CAPTAIII JOSEPH UUANT. 13 aborigines, especiiiliy the Moliawks, during the Revolutionary War, Great Britain, in her treaty of peace, made no stipulation in behalf of her ludiaa allies ; thci royal red man was not even named, wliile the ancient country of tlio Six Nations, the residence of their ancestors far beyond their earliest traditions, was included in the boundary granted to the Americans In 1785, Brant paid his second and last visit to England. The ad- justing of the claims of the Mohawks upon tJie Crown, and the indemniti- cation of their losses during the war, formed the object of the chieftain's mission. A cordial reception awaited him among his old military asso- ciates. Statesmen and scholars sought his society. The Bisliop of London, Charles Fox, James Boswell, and otlier noted cliaracters showed, him marked attention. With the King and lloyal Family he was a great favorite. He sat for his picture for Lord Percy, and Fox presented him with a silver snuif-box bearing his initials. On his preieutatiou to His Majesty he proudly refused to kiss his hand, gallantly remarking : " I am a King myself in my own country ; I will gladly kiss the Queen's hand." George III. was a man of too much sense not to bo gratilied with the turning of the compliment in Her Majesty's favor That the chief was not an unsuccessful envoy on behalf of his people will appear from the following extract from Lord Sidney's communication, dated Whitehall, tth of April, 178G : " His majesty, in consideration of the zealous and hearty exertions of his Indian allies in the support of his cause, and as a proof of his most friendly disposition towards them, has been graciously pleased to consent that the losses already certified by his Superinten- dent-General shall be made good ; that a favorable attention shall bo shown to the claims of others who have pursued the same line of conduct." During the visit to England, Brant was the recipient of an elegant largo octavo edition of the Gospel of St. Mark. This edition was printed under the patronage of the King, in alternate pages of English and Mohawk, and contained, in addition to the Gospel, the Psalms, occasional prayers, together with the service of communion, baptism, matrimony and the burial of the dead. It was embellished with engravings ; the frontispiece representing the interior of a chapel, with the portraits of the King and Queen, a bishop standing on either hand, and groups of Indians I'eceiving the sacred books from both their Majesties. Returning to his Canadian home, this celebrateil chieftain was un- wearied in his disinterested exertion to benefit his people However desirous Captain Brant may have been for honor or power, he was never mercenary in regard to property. In one of his speeches he declared with 14 LIFK OF all solemnity, that " 1 J:ave nevor appropriated a dollar of luoncy belong- ing to my nation to my own use ; nor have I charged my nation a dollar for my services or personal expe)ises." Brant, witii his people, supposed the land allotted them Avas conveyed in fey, by a perfect title; in this they were greatly disappointed. Tlie chieftain used his best efforts to obtain for his people a perfect title, in fee, to their new territory, but all without avail. Council after council, conference after conference, with (luires of MS. speeches, attest the sleepless vigilance with which he watched the interests of his tribe, and liis ability in asserting and vindicating their rights. These troubles were a source of perpetual vexation to the old chief to the day of his death. In his last speech on this subject he de- clared : " I cannot help remarking tliat it appears to me that certain characters here who stood behind the counter during the late war, and whom we know nothing about, are now dictating to your great men con- cerning our lands. I should wish to know what property these olHcious persons left behind them in their own country, or whether, through their loyalty, they ever lost any 1 I doubt it much. But 'tis well known that scarcely a man amongst us but what sacriliced more or less by leaving their homes. It is well known personal interest and not public good prompts them." This speech Brant said should be his final effort to obtain justice from the " Great Men." Brant expressed great anxiety for the thorough education of his two sons, Joseph and Jacob — and, accordingly, sent them to the school he had attended in Lebanon. The following extract from a letter addressed to President John Wiieelock on this subject is of interest : '' It gives me unspeakable satisfaction to find that my boys are with you. I hope you will show me the kindness to write me, and be particular, in exhorting them to exert themselves, and to behave in a becoming manner. I should wish them taught that it is their duty to be subject to the customs of the place they are in, even with respect to dress and the cutting of their hair." Brant's people being now in a transition state — neither hunters nor agricultui-alists — it formed the object of the chief to draw them from the chase to cultivate the ground. The sad necessity of war transplanted the Six Nations to a primitive forest. The Mohawk Ciiief well knew -vliat alone could prove the basis of an industrious community. One of Brant's first stipulations with the Connuander-in-Ohief was the building of a church, a school house, and a {louring mill. should 16 CAPTAIN JOSEPH URANT. With great exertion and scanty means, the cluirch was built. This monument of lii-ant's devotion to the Church of England was ei-ected on the banks of the Grand River, a short distance from where now stands the flourishing city of Brantford. The venerable house of God, now nearly a Imndred years old, was the Hrst Protestant Church in Can.ida. These noble red men procured for the old Mohawk Ciuirch the first " church-going l)ell " that ever broke the stillness of a Canadian forest. It is reported that wlien lirant died, this bell tolled for twenty-four hours ! In their loyalty to the British Crown, the Six Nations, although obliged to leave the major part of tJieir possessions behind them in their flight from tlie States, yet they managed to bear with them a few things they held sacrod. The curious may be surprised to learn that one of these articles was a large bible nnd the other a complete service of Comnumion plate, presented to the Mohawks by " the good Queen Ann," when they resided at Fort Hunter. On the Communion service is inscribed : "The Gift' of Her Majesty, Ann, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, and of Her Plantations in North America, Queen to Her Indian Chapel of the Mohawks." A similar service was presented at the same time to the Onondagas ; but they having no missionary, it was kept in trust by the rector of St. Peter's, Albany, where it has i-emained ever since. The Mohawks trim- med the pulpit of their church with crimson, painting on its walls the Creed Commandments, and the New England Society's and King's Coat of Arms. Brant exerted every effort to obtain a settled clergyman for liis Mohawk Church. Two or three years passed before his pious wish was gratifled. Impatient of delay, he reminded the Bishop of tlie pledge the Archbishop of Canterbury had made to him in the presence of the King, that, " Whenever the Indians, by the erection of a church, should be ready for religious instruction, he would do all in his power to supply their wants." In 1784 the Rev. John Stewart, who had interested himself so much for their spii'itual improvement in the States, emigrated, with his family, to Canada. In 1 786 he visited the Indians, who were his former charge, at their new settlement at the Mohawk village. Here he found them com- fortably located on a fertile soil — the village containing about 700 souls. Mr. Stewart was delighted with their beautiful church, and remarks : " As they had no stated clergyman at the time, I preached to a very large audience ; and it cost me a struggle to refuse the unanimous and pressing . Tins cted on f stands od, now ZJanada. ho first I forest. • hours ! obliged !ir flight igs thoy of those iinunion len they ; '« The , Prance L to Her >ndagas ; pr of St. 'ks trim- alls the f's Coat for his vish was Mlge the 10 King, nil Id be ) supply so much family, lai'ge, at \n\ com- )0 souls, eniarks : M-y large pressing CAPTAIN .lOSEPII nUANT. 11 invitations of this large settlement, with additional salary, to remain among them." The late Rev. Dr. Addison, of Niagfira, visited them twice a year to perform baptisms and marriages. He was succeeded by the Rev. R. Learning, the resident at Ancaster, who visited them occasionally. Their first resident minister was the Rev. Mr. Hough, sent out by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, succeeded by the Rev. R. L agger, whom the ^ew England Corporation Co. supplied, who re- mained but a few years, being obliged in 1836 to return to England, on account of ill health, where he soon after died, much regretted. Since that time the Rev. A. Nelles, assisted by the Rev. A. Elliott, have by God's help, been able missionaries. The Rev. Canon Nelles died in 1884 and was succeeded by the Rev Robt. Ashton, wlio still continues the head of the Missions, and the Principal of the Mohawk Institution. The school at present educates and entirely supports 90 children from the funds of the N. E. Society. There are at present laboring amongst these people four Church of England clergymen, and one Wesleyan minister, with nine or ten day schools. At the Bay of Quinte there is one Church of England clergyman and two schools. The Oneidas have a large settlement on the River Thames. Part of them belong to the Church of England, and part to the Wesleyan Methodists. The Caughnawagas settled near Montreal after the Revo- lutionary War, and United with the Roman Catholics. The tide of emigration has again obliged the Six Nations to leave their comfortable homes, and recede to the .southern side of the Gr ad River, where they are clearing farms in the midst of the primeval forest. Their present locations being too far from the old Mohawk Church, a new and beautiful one has been lately erected through the joint contributions of friends here and in England. The church is called " St. Paul's," and ir situated at Kanyengeh, near the centre of the Reserve. It was conse- crated for divine worship on August 22nd, 1866, by the Right Rev. the late Lord Bishop of Huron. It is built of white brick in the early Eng- lish style of architecture. There^ire two beautiful " In Memoriam " win- dows, one presented by the Rev. Canon Nelles, in memory of his late excellent wife, and the other by the Rev. A. Elliott, of Tuscarora, in memory of the late Mrs. Elliott. It would, however, be sad to see their first and ancient house, "where their fathers praised God," come to ruin, and we are pleased to learn that through the exertions of their chief missionary, the Rev. Canon Nelles, and other friends, efforts are now being made for its restoration. As a 18 • LIFR OF people we arc under stroiif? obligations to the Six Nations for their past valuable services in the time of trouble ; therefore we should be liberal in contributing towards this worthy object. 'J'he old church is also needed for the use and bonetit of the Indian children at the Mohawk Institution. A few years prior to his death, Capt. lirant built himself a large frame house at the northern extremity of Burlington l^ay beach, and Augustus Jones, father of the late Rev. Peter Jones, built his house on the southern end, now called i^tony Creek. These two pioneers in Cana- dian history were very intimate. The beautiful smooth beach between their dwellings formed a natural sand road, over which they travelled backwards and forwards, sharing each other's hospitality. On the 24th of November, 1807, this noble man died at his own resi- dence, Wellington Square, at the age of sixty-four years and eight months. His illness, which was painful, he bore with patience and resignation, and appeai-ed thankful to his friends for the attention they showed him His remains were conveyed to the Mohawk Village on the Grand River, and interred near the church which was erected through his indefatigable elForts. The interests of his people were uppermost in his thoughts to the end of his life. His last words that have been preserved on this subject were addressed to an adopted nephew ; " Have pity on the poor Indians. If you can get any influence with the great, endeavor to do them all the good you can." The Six Nation Indians, wishing more specially to distinguish the last resting place of their late illustrious Chief, determined to have his remains re-interred in a new tomb, which interesting ceremony took place on Nov. 27th, 1850. Catharine Brant, widow of Thayendanagea, was forty-eight when her husband died. As the inheritance of chieftainship descends through the female line, Mrs. Brant had power to appoint her own son, or if a grand- son, it must be a child of her daughter. The head chief of the Six Nations is styled Tekarihogea, to which station she appointed John, her fourth and youngest son, whose Indian name was Ahyonwaighs. This line young man received a superior English education, studied the best English authors, and improved his mind by travel and good society. All who I'emember the late John Brant will bear testimony to his being not only a manly, but an amiable and accomplished gentleman. He visited England, like his father, for the express purpose of once more appealing to the justice and magnanimity of the Parent Government respecting the land title controversy. Promises were made that his com- plaints should be redressed ; but on returning to his country, his expec- CAPTAIN JOSKPH DUANT. 10 thoir past liberal in so needed istitution. If a large leach, and 3 house on s in Cana- \ between 7 travelled i own resi- ht months, lation, and him His River, and lefatigable l^hts to the lis subject pr Indians, em all the sh the last lis remains e on Nov. when her rough the f a grand- )f the Six John, her n, studied and good timony to ;entleman. e of once )vernment t his com- liis expec- tations were again thwarted, the Local GovernuHmt refusing to carry into etl'ect the instructions received ; and to this day the long pending and vexed question of titles to their lands remains as unsatisfactory as ever. In the poem by Campbell — '* Gertrude of Wyoming " — the poet, after describing the valley as a paradise, and the people as blessed spirits, inti-o- duces our hero as " the Monster Brant." This phrase gave groat oU'enso to the friends of the chief, and during liis son's visit in England ho deter- mined to vindicate the memory of his father from the aspersions that had been cast upon it. After much connnunication with the poet, all tlio satisfaction he got was the insertion of an apology, not in the poem itself, but merely in a note at the end of the volume — a poor redress for such a wrong, as the poem lives through succeeding generations, while the note, if read at all, makes little impression and is soon forgotten. John Brant evinced the same philanthropic spirit as his late father for the improvement of his people. In the year 1832, he was returned a Member of the Provincial Parlia- ment for the county of Haldimand, but as a largo number of those l)y whom he was elected, held no other title to their lands than long leases, conveyed to them by Indians, his return was contested by the opposing candidate, Colonel Warren, who was declared chosen. JOII^^ brant's death. But it mattered not which should, for a short season, wear the Parlia- mentary honors. Death soon laid both low. The desolating oliolora swept fearfully over the country of the Great Lake, cutting down, in prime of manhood, and just as a bright career of usefulness promised further service and honor, this noble, this proud example of what civiliza- tion and letters can do for a son of the American foi-est. On the death of her favorite son John, the venerable widow of Joseph Erant, pursuant to the Mohawk law of succession, conferred the title of Tekarihogea upon the infant son of her daughter, Mrs. Kerr. This son, Simcoe Kerr, graduated in law and practiced his profession for some years in St. Catharines. He died about five years ago. The widow of the late old Captain died at Brantford, on November 24th, 1837, thirty years to a day from the death of her husband. Her age was 78. Dignified and stately in manners, tall and handsome in person, she well merited the title of " the Indian Princess." General P. B. Porter describes Brant as distinguislied alike for his address, his activity, and his courage, possessing in point of stature and symmetry of person, the advantage of most men — even among his own so LIFB OV well formed nico — tall, erect and niajestic, with the air and niion of one born to connnand. Ifaviiif^, as it wore, been a man of war from Ins boy- hood, his nauHi was a tower of strength anionj,' tin? warriors of the wilder- ness. His manners were aflable and dignified, avoiding frivolity as one extreme, or stifFnoss on the other. Not noted for eloquence, his power lay in his strong, practical good sense, and his deep and ready insight into character. As a man of rule, the Rev. John Stewart represents " his influence to have been actjuired.by iiis uncommon talents as a counsellor and politic- ian, by whicli means he subdued all opposition and jealousy, and at lengtli acquired such an ascendancy that, even in the hour of danger, he was enabled to rule anrl direct his warriors as absolutely as if he had been born their general. As a warrior he is represented as brave, cautious and sagacious. His constitution was hardy, and his capability of endurance great, his energy untiring, and his firmness indomitable. In his business relations he was prompt, lionorable, and a pattern for integrity. Justice was a distinguishing feature in the character of this noble man. When on long and fatiguing mai'ches, with scanty supplies of food, every prisoner was allowed a full share with hin)self. The same lore of justice marked his cnuduct during the Indian war of 1789 — '95, as also his correspondence with the Britisli Govei'ument regarding the subsequent difliculties touching the Grand River land title. When he thought the Indians claimed too mucli, he opposed them ; when too little, he fought for them. In a letter to General Chapin, he says : "As to politics, I study them not. My principle is founded on justice, and justice is all I wish for. Never shall I exert myself for any nation or nations — let their opinions of me be what they will — unless I plainly see that they are sin- cere and just in what they aim at. When I perceive that these are the sentiments of a people, no endeavors shall be wanting on my part to bring uations to a good understanding." Brant ever evinced a deep solicitude to adopt some system to prevent the worst of all vices — intemperance. Experience has long proved that neither Brant's nor any other man's importunity can avail so long as the Indian comes in contact with the moral contagion of unprincipled white men and strong drink. Will not the blood of the Red man be required at his hands who, for paltry gain, Ima been an agent of Satan in the ruin and extermination of the oiiginal proprietors of the American soil ? Brant a Freemason. — When Captain McKinstry was taken prisoner by the British, and marked as a victim by the Indians to be put to death CAPTAIN J08KPH UKANT. 31 hy iiro, Brant rocogniziiifj; liim as a inembor of tlio brotlierhood, exerted liinisolf ior his resuim, and in connection with some huinano Enji;Iish otH- cora, subscribed to purchase an ox, which they gave to tlie Indians for their cnrousal instead of the gaHant prisoner. An intimacy and friend- ship continued between these two parties until the Chief's death. After the Revolution, Brant never visited the Hudson with'out spending a few days at the Manor with his friend McKiustry. At the time of liis last visit in 1805, he attended the Free Mason's Lodge in the City of Hudson, where liis presence attracted great attention. The life of the late Jonathan Manyard, Escj., formerly a member of the Senate of Massachusetts, was saved by Brant, by his discovering on the prisoner's arms the symbols of Freemasonry, when the Indians had partly stripped him to put liim to deatli. Mr. M. lived to an advanced age, universally respected, an upright and faithful magistrate. Surely such a character is neither savage nor cruel. Brant was no less humane than he was brave. Brant's shrewdness and sagacity are illustrated by the following anec- dote. When Jemima Wilkinson (who professed tc be the Saviour of the world in his second appearance on the earth) was residing in western New York, she attracted the attention of Captain Brant. His celebrity being known to her, an interview was obtained. She addressed him a few words of salutation, to which the chief replied in his own language, when she informed him she did not understand hira. He then addressed her in another Indian dialect, to which she in like manner objected. After a pause he conmienced a third speech in a still different tongue. She then interrupted him by expressing her dissatisfaction in his persist- ing to speak in terms she could not understand. Brant arose with dignity, and witli a significant motion of the hand, said : " Madame you are not the person you pretend to be Jesus Christ can understand one language as well as another," and abruptly took his leave. Extracts from the following letter to the late Thos. Eddy on the sub- ject of " imprisonment for debt " will exhibit his views as a philanthropist. Mr. Eddy was directing his attention to the subject of prison discipline^ and, it appears, the views of the Mohawk Chief coincided with his own. " You ask me whether in my opinion civilization is favorable to human happiness ?**='= You will allow me in some respects to have had the advantages of you in forming my sentiments. I was, sir, born of Meliian parents, and lived while a child among those whom you are pleased to call savages. I was afterwards sent to live among tlie white people, and educated at one of your schools ; .since which I have been honored, 22 LIFE OP much beyond my deserts, by an acquaintance with a number of principal characters both in Europe and America. " After all this experience, and after every exertion to divest mj'self of prejudice, I am obliged to give my opinion in favor of my own people. I will now, as much as I am able, collect together and set before you some of the reasons that have influenced my judgment on the subject now before us. " In the government you call civilized, the happiness of the people is constantly t,acrificed to the splendor of Empire. Hence your codes of criminal and civil laws have had their origin ; hence your dungeons and prisons. I will not enlarge on an idea so singular in civilized life, and perhaps disagreeable to you, and will only observe that amongst us we have no prisons ; we have no pompous parade of courts ; we have no writ- ten laws ; and yet judges are as highly revered amongst us as amongst you, and their decisions as much regarded. Property, to say the least, is as well guarded, and crimes are as impartially punished. We have among us no splendid villains above the control of our laws. Daring wickedness is here never suffered to triumph over helpless innocence " The estates of widows and orphans are never devoured by enterpris- ing sharpers. In a word we have no robbery under the color of law. " No person among us desires any other reward for performing a brave action but the consciousness of having served his nation. Our wise men are called Fathers ; they are always accessible — I will not say to the mean- est of our people, for we have none mean but such as render themselves so by their vices, " The palaces and prisons among you form a dreadful contrast. Go to the former places and you will see perhaps a deformed piece of earth assuming airs that become none but the Great Spirit above. Go to one of your prisons ; here description utterly fails ! Kill them, if you please ; kill them, too, by tortures ; but let the torture last no longer than a day. Those you call savages relent ; the most furious of our tormentors exhausts his rage in a few hours, dispatches his unhappy victim by a sudden stroke. " But for what are many of your prisoners confined ? For debt ! — astonishing ! — and will you ever again call the Indian nations cruel 1 Liberty, to a rational creature, as much succeeds property as the light of the sun does the most twinkling star. I solemnly declare. I had rather die by the most severe tortures ever inflicted on this continent than lan- guish in one of your prisons for a single year. Great Spirit of the Uni- verse ! and do you call yourselves Christians 1 Does then the religion of Him whom you call your Saviour inspire this spirit, and lead to these pr W( ar CAPTAIN .TOSEPII BRANT. 23 principal 3st mj'self ^n people. you some bject now 5 people is [• codes of geons and i life, and gst us we 'e no writ- s amongst le least, is ive among wickedness enterpris- :law. ig a brave wise men the niean- heniselves )rast. Go of earth Go to one ou please ; han a day. 3 exhausts en stroke. »r debt ! — >ns cruel? le light of lad rather than lan- the Uni- religion of ,d to these practices ? Surely no. It is recorded of him that a bruised reed he never broke. Cease then to call yourselves Christians, lest you publish to the world your hypocrisy. Cease, too, to call other nations savage, when you are ten-fold more the children of cruelty than tliey." COUNCIL HOUSE OF THE SIX NATIONS. In short the great and fundamental principle of his policy was, that every man is naturally free and independent ; that no one on earth lias any right to deprive him of his freedom and that nothing could be a com- pensation for the loss of il In bringing this sketch of the noble Brant to a close, all unprejudiced minds will agree that few men have exhibited a life of more uninterrupted activity than Thayendanagea. It must be remembered that all his noble traits were displayed under circumstances unfavorable to their develop- ment. His educational advantages were comparatively few, his surround- 34 LIFE OP ings not such as would be likely to develop the finer feelings of the man, or those higher principles of justice which secure the honor and respect of his fellow-men. In spite of these disadvantages, he stands forth, in many respects, a bright example for the more favored of our race. Brant was a high-minded, large hearted, philanthropic man, whose memory, not only the Indian, but also the " pale face " will long continue to honor and re- vere. JOSEPH BRANT'S GENEALOGICAL TREE. 1st wipe — MARGARET. ISSUE. Christina. Isaac. hsne, Isaac, Margaret Ellen, I 3 Girls, 4 boys. Mary only living, a very kind and intelligent old lady, widow of the late Joseph Sawyer, Chief of the New Credit or Mississaugas Band of Chippeways. Isaac and Margaret's descendants have passed away. Ellen married Lott ridge. Issue. 3 Girls, 1 boy, all living. 2nd wipe — SUSANNA. Died shortly after marriage without issue. 3rd wipe CATHARINE. ISSUE. Joseph, Jacob, John, Margaret, Catharine, Mary, Elizabeth. 1. Joseph, \ Issue, one child, obit 1830. /Catharine, who married Aaron Hill. 2. Jacob, "\ Issue, 6 children, obit 1846. /John, Squire, Christina married the late John Jones. Jacob married Mary Jones. Peter. Charlotte married Peter Smith. 3. John, Never married, ubit 1832. 4. Margaret, ) Married Powless, obit 1848. (Issue, 7 children. 5. Catharine,* Married Peter John. Issue 3 children. 6. Mary. Married Seth Hill, Issue, Isaac, one child living. 7. Elizabeth,! Married to William Kerr — four children. •Catharine (Mrs. John) will be remembered by most of our Brantford friends as the last remaining child of the celebrated Brant. Mrs. John had four children, all of whom died many years ago. In old age she presented a queenly bearing ; tall and handsome, a fine specimen of the pure Aborigine. She died in the home of her childhood, at Wel- lington Suare, after a brief illness, on the 31st January, 1867, and was buried in the old Mohawk graveyard, close to the tombs of her valiant father and other relatives. fElizabeth was married in 1628, at the Mohawk Church, to William Johnson Kerr. Esq. son of the late Dr. Robert Kerr, and grandson of Sir William Johnson. Mrs. Kerr, died in April, 1844, at Wellington Square, leaving four children, viz., Walter. Joseph, Kate and Simcoe. the man, respect of I, in many 3rant was •, not only 3r and re- r kind and )w of tlie ef of the Band igas ith. iends as the all of whom . handsome, )od, at Wel- ried in the ilativeB. inson Kerr. QBcn. Mrs. iz., Walter, CAPTAIN JOSEPH BRANT. 25 Molly Brant, sister of Chief Joseph, was a woman of talent as well as tact. She pos.sessed great influence among the Indians, and was aided by the counsels of her brother, Capt. Brant, who spent much of his time with Sir William Johnson during the latter years of his life. She was careful of the education of her children, and her descendents from Sir William Johnson may be classed amongst some of the most respectable families in the Province. As there is much of romance connected with her acquaintance with Sir William, it may prove interesting as a link in Brant's history. " .Molly was a very sprightly and beautiful Indian girl of sixteen when he first saw her. It was a regimental militia muster, where she was one of the spectators. A field officer coming near her upon a prancing steed, by way of banter she asked permission to mount behind him. Not sup- posing she could, he said she might. At the word she leaped upon the crouper with the agility of a gazelle. The horse sprang off at full speed, and, clinging to the officer, her blanket flying, and her dark tresses streaming in the wind, she flew about the parade ground swift as an arrow, to the merriment of all. The Baronet who was an eye-witness, admiring the spirit of the j'oung girl, and becoming enamoured of her person, took her home as his wife." Pkesf:nt Condition op the Indians — Formerly all Indians lived in wigwams, and subsisted by hunting and fishing. Hundreds, nay thou- sands, still pagans, are no better off at the present time. But it is a matter of gratitude to Almighty God that through the labors of zealous and excellent missionaries, t!ie religion of Jesus Christ has done much to reform the moral, social and domestic habits of these once degraded races. The women who, were formerly slave to the men, have no longer the drudgery and hard work to perform, but ate living in comfortable cottages, neatly clothed and enjoying that peace which the religion of Jesus alone can give. The sober and industrious men are making considerable pro- gress in farming ; many of them grow wheat, oats, peas, Indian corn, &c., &,c., have small orchards, and cut considerable hay. But as the Indian possesses no title deed for his lands, he lias only a life interest in them — a circumstance materially tending to check that spirit of enterprise which stimulates the white farnief in working and laying up for his family. Excepting the protection of law, which every alien who resides in Her Majesty's Dominion claims, Indians do not possess any civil or political rights as British subjects. As many of them possess strong native talents, powers of foresight, (juick and accurate observation, conjoined in many instances with extraordinary personal influence and persuasive 26 LIFR OF ficultie-i, why tlioy should nob participate in all blessings of Hritish North America subjects, and with their white neighbors enjoy permanent security of their landed possessions, is a query for our rulers and great men to solve. Bhant's School Days. — It 'vill be remembered that Sir N^'illiaVii Jolmson liaving observed the promising character of young Brant during several campaigns of tlie war against tlie Froich, placed him at school in Lebanon, Connecticut, to receive an English education, in 1760. The account of his introduction into the school is found in a narrative l)y Rev. E. Wheelock, the principal •' The Honorable Scotch commissioners, in and near Boston, unde!-- standing and approving of the design of fending for Indian children of remote tribes, to be e lucated here, were the first body or society who htivo, led the way in making an attempt for that purpose, which because of tiie newness and r ■ narkable success of it (I suppose it may not be disagreeable if I am a little particular in my account of it) ; wjiile I was in Boston they passed a vote to this purpose, May 7th, 1761 : " That the Ilev. David Wheelock be desired to fit out David Fowler, an Indian youth, to accompany Mr. Sampsom Occom, going on a mission to tlie Oneidas, that said David be supported on said mission for a term not exceeding four months, and that he endeavor, on his return, to bring with him a number of l)oys, not exceeding three, to be kept under Mr. Wheelock's care and instruction, and that £20 be put into Mr. Wheelock's hands to cfirry this design into execution, and that when said sum be expended, he advise tlii' Treasurer of it ai d send his accounts for allow- ance " Pursuant to this vote I clotlied and furnished said David with horse and money for his long tour in the wilderness, which he set out on June 10th, iji company with Mr. Occom, by the way of New York, in which journey he rode a thousand miles, and by the advice, direction and assist- ance of Sir W. Johnson, obtained three boys of the Mohawk Nation, \\\\o wei-e willing to leave their friends and country, and come among strangers of another language and ([uite another manner of living, and where, p;'r haps, no one of their nation then living had ever been ; and among a people of whom their nation have been of a long time inclined to enter- tain jealousies. Their names were Joseph, Neyges, and Center They arrived here August 1st, 1761, but had so much caution in the extraordi- nary enterprise, that they brought each of them a horse from their own country. Two of them were but little better than naked, and could not speak a word of English. The other being of a family of distinction, was considerably clothed, Indian *ashion, and could speak a few words of Ja CAPTAIN JOSEPH tlUANT. 27 •itish North lent Kocurity nento solve. Sir Williar/i 3rant during at school in 50. 1 a nari'ative oston, undor- i children of society who 'hich because may not be while I was )avid Fowler, on a mission n for a term urn, to bring )t under Mi", r. VVheelock's said sum be nts for allovv- id with hoise ; out on June )rk, in which )n and assist- Nation, who ong strangf>rs d where, |);>r ind amoni; a led to eulcr- lenter Tliey the extraordi- )m their own md could not .stinction, was few words of English. Joseph, accompanied by Mr. Kirtland, who was learning the Mohawk language of him, returned home November 4th, and back again on the 27th inst., bringing two Mohawk lads with them viz : Moses and Johannes, by whom Sir William Johnson informed me that he expected to be able to send the rest when they came in from hunting. Sir W. Johnson writes in 1761 to the Rev. E. Wheelock : Fort Johnson, Nov. 17, 17G1. Hevekend Sir, — * * I am pleased to find the lads I sent have merited your good opinion of them. I expect they will return, and will make such progress in the Englisli language, and their learning, as may prove to your satifaction and the benefit of the Indians, who are really nuich to be pitied. * * I have given in charge to Joseph (JJrant) to speak in my name to any good boys he may see, and encourage 'em to accept the generous offer now made them, which he promised to do, and return as soon as possible, and that without horses. (Signed,) Wm. Johnson. The other letters concerning this time are of later date. Extract from Mr. Smith's letter to Sir W. Johnson, dated Lebanon, January 18th, 1761 : " I propose next summer to take an excursion into the Mohawk country as a missionary, and, being a stranger to the Indian dialect, I must of consequence improve an interpreter. Having spent some time here as a schoolmaster (with that worthy gentleman and eminent friend of Indians, Rev. E. Wheelock), 1 have contracted an intimate acquaintance witfi Joseph who I understand is high in your nllection and esteem, and has the wisdom and prudence to resign himself t. your direction and con duct, as he is a promising youth, of a sprightly ;;rnius, singular modesty, iuid a serious turn. I know of none so we 1 calculated to answer my end as he is — in which design he would very willingly and cheerfully engage should your honor consent to and approve of it. He has so much endeared himself to me, by his amiable deportment, his laudal)le thirst after the progress in learning, that did I not aprehend this would be as beneficial to him as advantageous to me, I should neither deserve his assistance nor solicit your approbation. But I apprehend I can nmcli sooner perfect him in the English language, and better instruct him in what he shall have occasion to learn, when he is constantly with me, than when in the school, where a large number are to be taken care of in conjunction with him. Should your honor approve of the proposal, I should immediately take upon nie tlie whole expense of his education, and so long as he serves 28 LIFE OF in the character of an interpreter, would allow him a genteel reward. The present excursion is designed only for a few months, after which he can return again to his school, so that I imagine if it's of no advantage, it can be but of little disadvantage to liim." (Signed,) Charles Jeffeuy Smith. Rev. Mr. Wheelock to Sir William Johnson : Hartford, May 16, 1763. Sill, — May it please your Honor . I received last evening a paper with your seal, enclosing a letter from Joseph to his sister, wrote, I suppose, in the Mohawk language, and by which he informs me he is ordered to come directly home ; that tlie Indians are displeased with his being here at school ; that they don't like the people, ttc, which has occasioned no small exercise in my mind, and many turnings of thoughts what should be the occasion of it. In my last to you I informed you of the truly noble and charitable design of Mr. Charles Jeffrey Smith (who has l)een Joseph's tutor last winter), his purpose to come with Joseph to you as soon as he could get ready for the business of his proposed mission, and that I designed to take Joseph Avith me to Boston and Portsmouth, en unceasing and should be held in veneration by the whole 1 ritish nation. The rev. gentleman concluded by saying that it was a matter for deep regret that substantial assistance had not been rendered by the Government to the remaining members of Brant's family, especially his two granddaughters. The Rev. Peter Jones, a Methodist minister, and a chief of the Miss- issaugas, spoke next : His late father and the elder Brant had long been .staunch friends. They settled on either end of liurlington Beach, the beach itself affording a good road for communication and constant intei-- course. When the Six Nations came to tliis province, after having lo.st their possessions in the State of New York, through their attachment to Britain, Brant applied to his (the speaker's) father for a portion of their 32 lAVK OP lands, and the roady ro])ly of the MissisHaucau80 ty, luul riMi- oii his (loath uUm', was in hat all was v^as about to ly know him ?ar as stated t became the ; the Indians Ho know iider for th«t i trace thoir iiat dreadful lairman, and death. He iietined gen- -his sureties I we, the poo- e, who sealed name of the iho heights of the name of t justice for uman nature •y in yonder generations monument 3gea. 'ennsylvania, the Susque- wanderings ras admitted. iloyment was ick, and the after night, end of nine 00 miles dis- less, and his io be brought young man, tribute of a The rea- act of Brant At the coiicluaion of tlio spoochos, the cofliu containing the remains of the chieftain was carried l)y six Master Masons to the now tomb — ^the scone, affecting as it was, being rendered doubly so by th(! soUmui strains of the Dead March in Haul, played by the band. Here, pn^vioua to tho closing of tho tomb, several appropriate prayers were oflbrod up by tho Rovorend Missionary, Mr. Ni^Uoa. Three rounds of cartridge were tired over tho grave l)y tho warriors and th<» sepulchre was clost^d upon tho mortal remains of the noble chi(5ftain, Brant and his son. Tho large con- course of pooplrred to Mr. Cleghorn's proposal, made ten years ago to the council of the Six Nations, to erect such a memorial, and to his enthusiastic and untiring labors to that end. He was glad to be present and see the structure so nearly completed President Clegliorn said the Six Nation Indians had upon this occasion undertaken to perform a duty of very great importance, and he knew they would perform it well. This monument would be a worthy mark of the respect and love attaching to the memory of the dead chief and would show to the world that the Six Nation Indians desired to perpetuate the memory of the noble Oapt. Brant. The strict adherence of the Indians to th(; terms of the treaty with Great Britain has always been worthy of remark, and sti'l is. This monument, constructed of brass and copper and stone, is designed as impcsrishable. Turidng to Chief Clench, who stood near him, Mr. Cleghorn said : " And now I have the pleasure to present to you and the Six Nation Indians this silver trowe. to be used in laying the corner stone of this monu nent." Chief Clench accepted th.j pretty little souvenir with an inclination of the head. The trovvel is of nickel silver, and has engraved upon its up- per surface, " Presented to the Chiefs of the Six Nation Indians on the CAPTAIN JOSEPH BRANT. 37 ; Charles, )avid, Jiis 1, Richard ielf-sealiii',' ally placed '., R. Ilen- )r William ', H. McK. isented the yr from the ,, encircling ?a had been es that sur- crowd hack up a lively la» ge stones od, the -wife .Wm Watt, p family, and of tl huge on, and said Council to uldbe maiii- ghoni, the II referred of the Six nd untiring structure so this occasion e knew they nark of the and would rpetuate the the Indians worthy of d copper and who stood e to present >d in laying clination of upon its up- dians on the occasion of the laying of the corner stone of the Brant Monument, Brant- ford, August 11th, 1886." Beneath was engraved a beaver, a Canadian emblem. The instrument was constructed by Mr. Thos. Aston, of this city, and is a credit to the workman. Chief Hill interpreted Mr. Cleghorn's remarks to the Indians, after whicli the ceremonial was proceeded with. LAYiNci THE CoRNEU Stone. — Chief Clench deposited the two jars in the receptacle, ran the silver trowel through the mortar that was placed upon the stone, another stone was lowered upon it and the deed was done. During the operation Chief Smoke Johnson, father of the late Chief G. H. M. Johnson, and now 94 years of age, was present and occupied a chair close by the corner stone, where he could witness the ceremony. He most attentively observed every movement, perfectly unconscious of the fact that he was probably more of an object of interest to tlie white peo- ple, as a man who had known Bi'ant, than was the performance of laying the stone. The old chief was afterwards given a more elevated seat where lie was photographed by rival photographers, who also secured a number of views of the site and throng. The Stone and Deposits. — The corner stone will occupy a position beneath the northeast corner of the monument and is a block of Ohio freestone about thirty inches square having a round hole cut entirely through the centre, corresponding with an excavation of a similar diameter 15 inches in the earth beneath, into which the jar containing the docu- mentary deposits were placed. One jar contained a copy of the Canadian Almanac of 188G ; the Brantford Colonial Pamphlet ; Minutes and Pro- ceedings of the Brant County Council, for 1885-80 ; Act of Incorporation of the Brant Memorial AssocJition ; copy of an address to the Six Nation Indians to H. II H., the Duke of Connaught ; a circular issued by the Brant Memorial Association with names of tlu^ local connnittees formed in 1876 ; a list of the patrons and directors of the Brant Memorial Asso- ciation for 1886, and date of laying of the corner stone; a copy of the IVlemoirs of Capt. Joseph Brant ; a copy of the rules and regulations of the John II. Stratford Hospital ; coins of the realm, 1 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 25 cent, and 50 cent pieces ; copies of the h xpositor, Teliujrmn and Co»»'t6'r, Globe and Mail, Toronto, the liuUan ; copy of the Brantford Young Ladies College calendar ; and excellent photos of President Cleg- horn and Mr. Wood the artist. The other jar contained four strings of wampum, with interpretation ; a copy of the grant of lands made by Gov- ernor Haldimand, dated 25th October 1781 ; a copy of a deed conHrming that grant, signed 1)y Governor Simeoe, dated January 14th, 1793 ; a re- ])ort of the visit of the Earl of Dutlerin, CJovernor General of Canada to the Six Nation Reserve, on the 25th of August, 1874 ; and a copy of the Report of the Superintendent-General of Indian ali'airs, the Right Hon. Sir John A. Macclonald, for 1886. The Speeches. — After the photographers had secured all they desired, Mr. Alex. Robertson mounted a larg(> stone and proposed tln'oe i-ousing cheers for the aged Chief Johnson, "the father " he said, "of the late respected Chief G. H, M, Johnson, whose death before this monument 38 LIFE OP was erected, is deeply regretted." Tlie three cheers were given as lieartily as the temperature would permit, and Chairman Hill called on Chief Henry Clench. The Chief spoke in the Oneida tongue in efiect as follows : Those who were here to-day had witnessed the performance of a most faithfu' ally to the British, and that he was also faithful to, and exerted himself in behalf of his own people. Thus he was entitled to their respect and his memory should be held in reverence because of his goodness and faithfulness. The speaker was glad to see so many in attendance both of Indians and white people. The documents that had been placed in the stone were all important -md many years hence would be of veiy great value and interest. Chief Clench concluded an excellent address by admonishing his people, the Six Nation Indians, that as Brant was faithful to Great Britain and the people, so they might all follow in his footsteps and be also faithful. Chief John Buck was then called upon to reply to the address of Pres- ident Cleghorn. He spoke in the Onondaga tongue, and began his ad- dress by drawing the attention of the Six Nations to tlie fact that much of the credit for the accomplishment of this great work was due to the unwearied labor and persistent energy of Mr. Allen Cleghorn, who had given freely of his time to ensure the success of so great an undertaking. They were assembled, he said, on the spot where the monunient would be erected to the memorv of Brant, as a memorial of his faitlifulness and valuable services rendered to the British Government and to the people of his own race. The Indians, he considered, should feel thankful to the white people for the generous aid and interest taken in the work. Ten yeai's ago his council scorned the proposal, deeming it absolutely impossi- ble of accomplishment, bi;t afterwards reconsidered it and made an appeal to their white brethren for aid. The response came so freely and liberally that they felt justified in proceeding with the erection. They were thank- ful to all who had contributed, The monument would last for ail time, he hoped as long as the world lasts, as a monument of respect to a good man. All should follow his worthy example. He spoke of how the Indi- ans under Capt. Brant had fought and bled for the old Union Jack, and earnestly hoped tiie good relations now existing between the Six Nations and the British Goi'ernment would ever continue. Following this address, a number of Indians sang what they termed a " song of condolence." The air was -. most melancholy one and the words those of a solemn dirge. Chief Wm. Wedge led the singing. The Chairman then asked the spectators to be as quiet as possible, thao he would call on Chief Smoke Johnson, the eldest Ind'an on the Re- serve and the only one living who had ever seen Brant The old Chief was assisted to stand on a chair, and in spitp of his years made an eloquent address. He was glad, he said, to have the oppor- tunity to say a few words. He had known Brant, and had lieard nnich of his exploits and valiancy, and adherence to the British crown. At the time of the Revolutionary War, when the Mohawks ■'vere in New York state, they were enjoying many privileges, but the war broke out and Brant with his Indians fought the rebels. After a long ;ind continuous CAPTAIN JOSEPH BRANT. 39 as heartily 1 on Chief as follows : of a most nd exerted lieir respect odness and nee both of iced in the very great address by vas faithful is footsteps •ess of Pres- Tan his ad- , that much due to the 1, who had ndertakin it would be fulness and i the people ikful to the work. Ten Bly impossi- le an appeal ,nd liberally were thank- "or ail time, to a good )W the Indi- 1 Jack, and Jix Nations ley termed ne and the as possible, on the lle- pite of his e the oppor- heard much vn. At the New York ke out and continuous war, the British surrendered America. Brant's conduct in carefully guarding the wives and children of British soldiers and conducting them to Niagara in safety, had been universally rejoiced at. Brant was famous as a warrior and faithful ally, and the whole country felt that such a memorial should be erected. Brant's faithfulness to the terms of tho treaty with the British was marked, and his example was a lit one to fol- low. This treaty had* been secured to them by the Conservative Govern- ment of that day, and for this reason the Indians should adhere to the Conservatives. The several tribes still remaining in New York state were, he believed, all prosperous. He could not say all he desired, be- cause the day was too far advanced. All these Indian speeches were interpreted very cleverly by Chief Josiah Hill. Mr. Robert Henry briefly traced the history of the Brant Memorial Association from its inception and gave the energetic President, Mr. Cleg- horn, great credit for the zeal displayed by hiui in pushing the work to completion against very great obstacles. Referring to the several grants towards the object, and the deticiency yet to be made up, he earnestly urged citizens to assist in making it up. The Six Nations and citizens should have a pride in this monument. It was the first ever erected to the memory of an Indian in Canada, and would amply evidence the ap- preciation of the services rendered by the illustrious Chief Brant. He alluded to Mr. Percy Wood, the talented artist, who secured the commis- sion after keen competition with the most eminent sculptors of th*? age. The foundation stone of this monument, he felt assured, would also he the foundation of a bright future for the young sculptor, and his name would be honored and respected as his talented father's had been before liini. Mayor Heyd expressed his pleasure at the large gatliering and was pleased to see so lai-ge a representation from the Reserve. The spirit of amity which existed between the Six Nations and the whites was one to 1)(^ connnended, and showed tluit the treaty rights had been respected. He lioped to see the same amicable feeling existing as well among the In- dians of the Northwest, and that the white man's government should al- ways bear among the tribes the reputation for confidence and fair dealing. The deep loyalty which the Indians always evinced was evidence that as long as the Indian was treated fairly he would be the friend of the white man. Mr. Paterson, M. P , made a short address, referring somewhat to the inception and history of the memorial and the mutual subsisting friendly relations between the Six Nations and their white neiglibors. He had no doul)t the monument would be a handsome tribute to the ability and skill of the g(!ntleman into whose hands it had been entrusted. Chief Hill then called for three cheers for the Queen, which were giv- in full Indian style and the proceedings closed. 40 LIFE OF THE TABLET. Tho Tublot is of tlio finest riiiigiiesia lime stone, from Polee Island ; it weii^lis over one ton, find is 7 feet (5 inches l>y 4 feet fi iiiulK^s. "TJiis national monument erected by the IJrant Memorial Association, incorporated 41 Vic, Chap. G2, S. Q. TO THAYENDANAGEA, Born 1742, died 1807, interred at the Mohawk church. AND TO The Indians for their long and faithful services on behalf of the British Crown, and their strict observance of treaties. Contributed to by the Six Nation Indians, the Chippewas, tho Dominion of Canada, the Pi'ovijice of Ontario, the City of Brantford, the Counties of Brant and Bruce, and private subscriptions. The British Government provided the bronze cannons for the statue. Patrons. — H. R. H. Tiie Duke of Connaught, the Marquis of Lome, The Earl of Durt'erin, The Marquis of Lansdowne. DiJiKCTOKS. — Allen Cleghorn, President; I. Cockshutt, Vice-Presi- dent ; llobt. Henry, Treasurer ; G. H. Muirhead, Secretary ; Alex. Bob- ertson, Col. Gilkinson, Wm. Paterson, M. P. ; William Buck, Daniel Burt, Warden County Brant ; H. McJC. Wilson, Q. C. ; A. J. Wilkes, LL. B. ; C. B. Heyd, Mayor; R. Henwood, M. D. ; J. W. Digby, M. D. ; J. H. Stratford, Wm. Watt. Chiefs. — Sha-na-wa-dili, Ah-wem-in-neli, Slia-ko-ka-nyes, Kenehdageh, Ka-non-kwe-yo-teh, A. G. Smith, Intepreter. Sculptor. — Percy Wood (gained by international competition). Corner Stone laid Aug. 1 1, lf^86, by Ciiief Kji-won-kwen I-ya. Unveiled October 13th, 1886, by the Hon. J. B. Robinson, Lieut. Governor of Ontario. ■i^*P^V 50 Island ; it Association, ■cli. : the Ciitisli bo by the 8ix I Province of Bruce, and • tlio statue, lis of Lome, , Vice-Prosi- ; Alex. Rol)- juck, Daniel . J. Wilkes, igby, M. D. ; veneiulageli, tition). -ya. nson, Lieut. ii im ii< >t i iii f iii i ■! ii«■ I Wiigi, Mmi'pPSffiSfi^ of axid Deileir fn ■* / •' ; THE BRANT MEMORIAL. Souvenir Med^i^W^ Grefany, Brantford, Ont. I 1 ^