Excerpts and Annotated Materials
American Revolution
Includes many primary sources, especially the letters and orders of various military commanders and the speeches of Native American leaders. Documents relate to the different alliances that existed between the British, the Americans, and groups of Indians; the threat posed by the loss of Indian allies in the region; and the participation of Indians in various battles and military actions.
General Histories
Walker, Charles I. "The Northwest During the Revolution." Vol. 3, (1881): 12-36.
Summarizes Native American participation during the American Revolution, specifically in the Northwest. The document also incorporates much statistical data, referencing numbers of warriors as well as goods and supplies provided to the Indians.
Primary Documents
Items listed here are organized chronologically.
Haldimand Papers. December 14, 1777-July 15, 1781. 53 Items. Vol. 19, (1891): 335-622.
Mason Bolton to Adjutant General. December 14, 1777. p. 335-337.
"Trade in the Lake Superior Country in 1778." January 20, 1778. p. 337-339.
John Butler to Frederick Haldimand. February 2, 1778. p. 340-343.
Haldimand to Mason Bolton. August 27, 1778. p. 348-350.
E. Foy to Arent de Peyster. August 28, 1778. p. 350.
Louis Chevallier to De Peyster. September 15, 1778. p. 352-353.
Bolton to Haldimand. September 18, 1778. p. 353-355.
William Caldwell to John Butler. September 21, 1778. p. 355-356.
Bolton to Haldimand. November 11, 1778. p. 363-365.
Bolton to Haldimand. November 13, 1778. p. 365-367.
Bolton to Haldimand. February 8, 1779. p. 370-373.
Bolton to Haldimand. February 12, 1779. p. 373-374.
John Butler to Haldimand. April 2, 1779. p. 383-385.
Haldimand. "Observations Necessary for Capt. Brehm to Make on His Route between Lachine and Detroit." April 9, 1779. p. 389-392.
Haldimand to Butler. April 18, 1779. p. 393-394.
John Campbell to Haldimand. April 18, 1779. p. 394-395.
C. Gautier to De Peyster. April 19, 1779. p. 397-398.
Haldimand to Brehm. May 7, 1779. p. 402-404.
Brehm to Haldimand. May 8, 1779. p. 404-405.
De Peyster to Campbell. May 13, 1779. p. 411.
Henry Bird to Bolton. nd. p. 413.
Bolton to Haldimand. May 20, 1779. p. 415-417.
Haldimand to Henry Clinton. May 26, 1779. p. 418-422.
Alexander McKee to R. B. Lernoult. May 26, 1779. p. 423-424.
Lernoult to Bolton. June 23, 1779. p. 439-440.
Nicholas Lorrain to Lernoult. June 28, 1779. p. 442-443.
Haldimand. "Speech to the Indians." July 2, 1779. p. 444-445.
Thomas Bennet to Lernoult. August 15, 1779. p. 455-456.
Haldimand to Henry Clinton. September 4, 1779. p. 463-465.
"Speech of the Chauvrons" and "Answer to the Chauvrons." September 26, 1779. p. 468-470.
Haldimand to Bolton. November 11, 1779. p. 477-479.
Haldimand to Clinton. January 31, 1780. p. 496-499.
De Peyster to Bolton. March 10, 1780. p. 501-502.
Charles Grant to Haldimand. April 24, 1780. p. 508-511.
"Invoice of Indian Presents." May 13, 1780. p. 517-518.
Bolton to Haldimand. May 16, 1780. p. 521-522.
De Peyster to Bolton. June 1, 1780. p. 526-527.
Henry Bird to De Peyster. June 3, 1780. p. 527-529.
Alexander McKee to De Peyster. June 4, 1780. p. 530-531.
De Peyster to Bolton. June 27, 1780. p. 536-537.
Bird to De Peyster. July 1, 1780. p. 538-539.
De Peyster to Bolton. July 6, 1780. p. 540-541.
McKee to De Peyster. July 8, 1780. p. 541-543.
De Peyster to Bolton. August 4, 1780. p. 553.
De Peyster to Bolton. August 6, 1780. p. 555.
Haldimand to Allan Maclean. August 16, 1780. p. 562-563.
"Intelligence Concerning Detroit." December 4, 1780. p. 587-588.
McKee to De Peyster. March 1, 1781. p. 597-598.
"Indian Speech at Detroit." March 9, 1781. p. 596-597.
Haldimand to H. Watson Powell. April 20, 1781. p. 622-624.
Lernoult to Powell. June 22, 1781. p. 640-641.
"Intelligence from the Shawanese." July 14, 1781. p. 646-647.
McKee to De Peyster. July 15, 1781. p. 647-648.
General
Frederick Haldimand was Governor of Canada during the American
Revolution. His papers, printed in Volume 19 of this resource, contain
many documents concerning the relationship between the British and their
Native American allies during the Revolution.
A warning to the Huron to remain faithful to the "duty" they "owe" to the British Government.
"The Chiefs and Principal Warriors of the Mingoes, Hurons, Delawares, & Shawnese. To Their Father Captain Lernoult Commanding at Detroit." October 1779. Vol. 10, (1888): 364-365.
Indians request support and materials for their campaign against "a large body of Virginians."
"Speech of the Delawares and Shawnese Assembled at the Upper Shawnee Village, to Their Father Major De Peyster Commandant of Detroit, August 22nd 1780." Vol. 10, (1888): 420-421.
An urgent request for help in their conflict with the Virginians.
"Return of Prisoners of War Sent from Detroit." May 16, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 18.
List of Americans taken prisoner by the Indians and returned after the war.
Caldwell, William, to Arent de Peyster. June 11, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 25-26.
Powell to Haldimand. July 1, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 28-29.
Haldimand to Sir Guy Carleton. July 28, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 34.
Three documents pertaining to an Indian massacre of US forces under Colonel Crawford in June 1782.
De Peyster to McKee. August 6, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 37-38.
Shawnee and Delaware are putting their prisoners to death, an action that may harm US-British relations.
McKee to De Peyster. August 28, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 49-51.
An account of the Battle of Blue Licks, Kentucky.
Maclean, Allan, to Haldimand. May 18, 1783. Vol. 20, (1892): 117-121.
Report that the Indians are angry over the terms of the Treaty of Paris ending the American Revolution.
"Indian Speech to the Congress of the United States." 1786. Vol. 13, (1889): 104-105.
Indians of many nations express their dissatisfaction with their treatment by the US following the conclusion of the American Revolution.
Battle of Fallen Timbers
Includes
mostly primary sources, esp. letters and speeches to and from Indians and the United States government. Also contained are a few documents that refer to the British reaction to the battle in 1794, and the chain of events leading up to the Treaty of
Greenville (1795).
General Histories
Burton, C. M. "Anthony Wayne and the Battle of Fallen Timbers." Vol. 31, (1902): 472-489.
History of the battle and the events leading up to it, 1783-1794. Includes several fold-out maps.
Will, George. "Letter Taken from the American Pioneer, Vol. 1, p. 295." Vol. 34, (1905): 502-503.
Letter describing movements of General Wayne's army in early 1790s, the construction of Fort Recovery and the battle of the same name, and the Treaty of Greenville, 1795.
Primary Documents
Entries are listed chronologically.
"Reply of the Commissioners of the United States to the Indians." July 13, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 579-585.
The US commissioners declare that the Ohio River boundary line for US settlement proposed by the Indian Confederacy is unacceptable because of provisions of the Treaties of Ghent and Fort Stanwix that established a Great Lakes boundary line. They are willing to renegotiate this line, but they demand that the Indians make concessions.
"Council Held at the Foot of the Miamis Rapids." July 27, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 570-571.
The Indian Confederacy demands that all US troops and settlers be removed past the Ohio River and wants that river to be the permanent Western and Northern boundary of white settlement.
"Reply of the Indians to the Commissioners of the United States." August 13, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 587-592.
The confederacy argues that they had no part in the Treaty of Paris and did not give the British the right to give away Indian lands. They also argue that the US made treaties with Indians who had no right to give up land. Finally, they again demand the Ohio River as a permanent boundary for US expansion.
"Commissioners of the United States to the Chiefs of the Indian Nations." August 16, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 592-593.
The US makes its final refusal of the confederacy's demands that the Ohio River be the boundary between the US and Indian lands, and they believe that international law will support them.
Alexander McKee to J. G. Simcoe. August 22, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 595-599.
McKee is upset that the Confederacy demanded the Ohio River as a boundary. He suspects that they did it out of anger at the Iroquois. Includes copy of Shawnee speech to Simcoe defending their behavior, including several totems (pictographs) that served as signatures.
J. G. Simcoe to George Hammond. August 24, 1793. Vol. 24, (1894): 599-605.
Short history of the problems between the Indian Confederacy and the US, dating back to the Treaty of Paris, mostly blaming the US. He is sure that the Indians believe that the British abandoned them in the treaty, and is equally sure that the British will be dragged into the conflict.
Anthony Wayne to the Indians. January 14, 1794. Vol. 24, (1894): 629-631.
Wayne demands that US prisoners of war be returned by February 14 and suggests a treaty council.
Accounts and map of the Battle of Fallen Timbers. August 20, 1794. Vol. 20, (1892): 369-372.
Contains various British letters and documents pertaining to the battle in which Wayne defeated the Indian Confederacy.
George Ironside to Alexander McKee. December 13, 1794. Vol. 20, (1892): 385-386.
Concerning a meeting of the Shawnee, Mingo, and Huron Indians with Anthony Wayne at Greenville.
Wayne, Anthony. Speech to Indians at Sandusky. January 1, 1795. Vol. 25, (1894): 81-83.
Wayne promises cessation of hostilities and looks forward to treaty council at Greenville. This is shortly after the Battle of Fallen Timbers.
"Articles of Peace between Gen. Anthony Wayne and the Indians." February 11, 1795. Vol. 20, (1892): 393-394.
Basic peace treaty ending hostilities, but no land changing hands yet. Signed by Anthony Wayne and Blue Jacket, among others. Followed by the Treaty of Greenville.
Treaty of Greenville. August 3, 1795. Vol. 20, (1892): 410-419.
Full text of treaty that ended the hostilities between the US and the Indian confederacy after the Battle of Fallen Timbers.
Biographies
Many
of the historical essays and personal "reminiscences of pioneer times" include detailed information on specific Native Americans, often chiefs and other leaders such as Kishkorko, Noonday, Okemos, Pokagon, and Shavehead.
Items are listed alphabetically by individual.
Bailey, Francis
Baxter, Albert. "Muskegon Pioneer Remnants." Vol. 26, (1895): 272-274.
Contains an account of Francis Bailey, a "halfbreed" Indian trader and doctor from Muskegon who moved with the Potawatomi to Pentwater.
Bawbese/Baw Bese
This account explains several aspects of Potawatomi life, and includes short biographies of chiefs Mitteau and Bawbese.
Dodge, Mrs. Frank P. "Landmarks of Lenawee County." Vol. 38, (1912): 478-491.
This favorable sketch of the Potawatomi includes a short description of Chief Baw Bese.
Bennett, William
Kelley, Edward S. "William Bennett." Vol. 30, (1906): 85-95.
Bennet was an Indian trader and the first white settler in western Michigan. He married a Potawatomi woman, and their children were granted land in the treaties of Saginaw, Chicago, and Tippecanoe.
Cushaway/Cush-ee-wee
This account mentions Cushaway, a Potawatomi chief, in addition to Indian burial grounds and reports of grave excavations.
Hooker, John S.
"John S. Hooker of Lowell." Vol. 38, (1912): 61-64.
Hooker was a white man who was a friend of Che-na-go. Hooker was an interpreter who was popular with the Native Americans, who called him Cap-squa-itt, referring to his strident voice. He wrote a directory of the Odawa in Michigan and conducted a census. This document also contains a story of Wab-sha-gun and his son, Che-na-go, solving the murder of a white family, as well as the meaning of various Indian words.
"Injun Jim"
A man known only as "Injun Jim" died in Alpena county during the Civil War. Local women cared for him during his last sickness and then buried him in an unmarked grave along the river.
"Jack"
Lafever, Margaret. "Story of Early Day Life in Michigan." Vol. 38, (1912): 672-677.
Lafever's story includes the account of "Jack," a Canadian "halfbreed" who lived with Lafever's family after her father found him nearly dead.
Johnston, John
Chapman, Charles H. "The Historic Johnston Family of the 'Soo.'" Vol 32, (1903): 305-353.
This biography is about John Johnston, an early settler of the Sault Ste. Marie area, and his family. Johnston married O-shaw-gus-co-day-way-qua, the daughter of Wa-bo-jeeg (White Fisher), a local chief. The document also contains a sketch of the life of Wa-bo-jeeg, five Native American legends, translations for some Ojibwe poetry, and a short history of the Ojibwe nation.
Kaw-baw-gam, Charles
"Memorial Report - Marquette County." Vol. 33, (1904): 743 - 744.
Charles Kaw-baw-gam was the stepson of Shan-wa-non of the Ojibwe. Kaw-baw-gam was popular with local whites, and after his death at 104 years of age, they purchased a bronze statue for his Presque Isle grave.
Kishkorko
(Entires for Kishkorko are listed chronologically)
Hull to Dearborn. December 28, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 240-241.
This letter explains that an Ojibwe man named Kish-cou-cough (Kishkorko) had killed a Frenchman around 1800 but eluded the law and become a fugative. This man's father, a highly respected Chief, had asked the government to pardon his son. Hull supports the idea, believing that such an act will help persuade the Ojibwe to ally with the Americans and not the British.
Miller, Albert. "Detroit in 1814." Vol. 13, (1888): 503-507.
Account of armed conflict in 1814 which took place between white settlers under General Cass and Ojibwe Indians under Chief Kish-kaw-ko (Kishkorko).
Contains information on Kishkaukon (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area) and a discussion of two other Indian men, who were tried and hung for the murder of a surgeon.
Whiting, J. L. "Dr. J. L. Whiting's Historic Sketch." Vol. 2, (1880): 460-462.
Dr. Whiting served as the post surgeon at the Saginaw United States Infanty Stockade in 1823. In this account of his experiences there, he describes (in detail) an Ojibwe council at Green Point that dealt with the murder of an Ojibwe man. The individual charged with the crime was Kishkawkaw (Kishkorko).
This essay explains the overall friendly relationship that the Williams family enjoyed with the Saginaw area Ojibwe, including Kish Kor Co (Kishkorko).
Contains an account of the Ojibwe Chief Kishkaukau's brutality. (Kishkorko).
Jones, George N., Mrs. "Miss Emily Ward, Commonly known as Aunt Emily." Vol. 38, (1912): 581-589.
Describes an 1826 incident on the St. Claire River. Several Indian men, intending to free the Ojibwe Chief Kishkaawko (Kishkorko) from his Detroit jail cell, raided the settlement while all its men were away serving their militia duty. When Aunt Emily fought the Indians off with a broom, they continued onward to Detroit.
"A Visit with a Lady who knew Detroit as a Frontier Post." Vol. 14, (1890): 535-539.
Story of Kish-kaw-koo (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area), and his crime, capture and death. He had murdered a clerk of Judge Riley on the St. Clair River. Also, he committed suicide in his cell before his scheduled hanging.
Ford, Henry. "Historical Detroit." Vol. 10, (1888): 88-97.
Explains that Detroit's first gallows were erected specifically for the execution of an Indian named Kishkaukon (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area). However, he committed suicide in his cell before he could be hung.
Maconce, Francois
Farrond, B. C. "Early History of St. Clair County." Vol. 17, (1890): 430-439.
Pages 432-433 of this account contain a biography of Francois Maconce, a Potawatomi chief from the Swan Creek-Salt River area. He became chief in 1816 and went to Kansas in 1830.
Marsac, Daniel
Hooker, John S. "Daniel Marsac." Vol. 38, (1912): 60-61.
Marsac was a white trader who married an Odawa woman named Je-nute, then abandoned her for a white woman after the couple's child died after being sent to Detroit to be raised "properly."
Maungwudaus
Little, Frank. "Early Recollections of the Indians About Bull Prairie." Vol. 27, (1896): 330-338.
Contains a sketch of Chief Maungwudaus, who traveled to Europe with George Catlin, and also met Henry Clay and Zachary Taylor.
Metean/Ne-ma-gin-as-wot
Dodge, Mrs. Frank P. "Landmarks of Lenawee County." Vol. 38, (1912): 478-491.
This favorable sketch of the Potawatomi includes a short description of Chief Metean or Ne-ma-gin-as-wot.
Mitteau
This account explains several aspects of Potawatomi life, and includes short biographies of chiefs Mitteau and Bawbese.
Naw-gaw-nee, Peter
Day, J. E. "Sketch of Peter Naw-gaw-nee, a Celebrated Indian of the Isabella County Reservation." Vol. 27, (1890): 328-329.
Naw-gaw-nee was present at the Battle of the Thames where Tecumseh died. He was a friend of Governor William Hull and was present at the Treaties of Detroit and Saginaw. He settled on the Isabella Reservation in 1864 and died in 1895. His wife left him and both of his sons died at early ages.
Noonday/Newequa Geezig
This history of the Potawatomi near Kalamazoo contains a sketch of their chief, Noonday, or Newequa Geezig, along with descriptions of their daily life.
Ohshawano, Edward
Gilbert, Mrs. Thomas D. "Memories of the 'Soo.'" Vol. 30, (1906): 623-633.
Contains a biography of Edward Ohshawano, a chieftain of the Indians at Saulte Ste. Marie. It also contains a story of an Indian burial site which is now under the canals, as well as a sketch of Henry Rowe Schoolcraft's wife, who was also Native American.
Okemos/Ogemos
Chatterton, M. D. "Indian Funeral Scene." Vol. 27, (1896): 338-340.
This account describes Okemos as a beggar, and recounts the funeral of Okemos' daughter in Ingham County.
Farrond, B. C. "Early History of St. Clair County." Vol. 17, (1890): 430-439.
Pages 433-434 of this account contain a biography of Okemos or Ogemos, who was a nephew of Pontiac who died in 1858 at over 100 years of age.
Jenison, O. A. "Paper by O. A. Jenison, Read February 5th, 1879." Vol. 3, (1881): 48-52.
Jenison presents to Pioneer Society of the State of Michigan with an ambrotype photograph of Chief Okemos. This paper is a detailed biography of Okemos, who fought with the British during the American Revolution, was a non-hereditary chief, and died in 1858.
Niles, M. J. "Old times in Clinton County." Vol. 14, (1890): 620-626.
Briefly discusses Okemos and the items which were buried with him in 1858.
Potter, Theodore. "A Boy's Story of Pioneer Life in Michigan." Vol. 35, (1907): 393-412.
Contains the author's telling of his experiences with Chief Okemos of Lansing, including Okemos' character and adventures hunting deer together.
Pecitiac
Goodyear, Henry. "Indians of Barry County." Vol. 35, (1907): 637-643.
This character sketch of the Odawa and Potawatomi contains a short biography of Chief Pecitiac.
Pokagon
Includes discussion of white missionaries' work with Indians, especially Chief Pokagon, whose complete written request for a missionary in 1831 is included.
Copley, A. B. "The Pottawattomies." Vol. 14, (1890): 256-267.
This brief history of the Potawatomi nation contains short biographies of several chiefs, including Pokagon.
Girardin, J. A. "Life and Times of Rev. Gabriel Richard." Vol. 1, (1900): 493.
This essay contains a dialogue that took place in July of 1830 in which Chief Pokagon of the Potawatomi requested from Father Richard a resident missionary for his people.
Pontiac
Headley, J. T. "Pontiac; or the Siege of Detroit." Vol. 21, (1892): 613-639.
This is the story of Pontiac's life, including a lengthy description of the siege of Detroit.
Riley, John
Farrond, B. C. "Early History of St. Clair County." Vol. 17, (1890): 430-439.
Pages 434-437 of this account contain a biography of John Riley, an Ojibwe chief from Port Huron whose father was white. Riley is mentioned in Article 3 of the Treaty of Saginaw. He died in 1842.
"Rodd, Old Mother"
Farrond, B. C. "Early History of St. Clair County." Vol. 18, (1891): 430-439.
"Old Mother Rodd" was a Native American who was from the Port Huron area but was not Ojibwe. She was an expert in herbal medicine, lived on the Sarnia reservation, and died in 1870 at over 100 years of age.
Sagamaw
Scott, A. H. "Indians in Kalamazoo County." Vol. 10, (1888): 163-166.
This account of the Kalamazoo reservations during the 1830s and 1840s contains a short biography of Chief Sagamaw.
Saugahash
Saugahash was a Potawatomi chief who was killed by his own people for signing the treaty of removal in 1835.
Schoolcraft, Mrs. Henry Rowe
Gilbert, Mrs. Thomas D. "Memories of the 'Soo.'" Vol. 30, (1906): 623-633.
Contains a biography of Edward Ohshawano, a chieftain of the Indians at Saulte Ste. Marie. It also contains a story of an Indian burial site which is now under the canals, as well as a sketch of Henry Rowe Schoolcraft's wife, who was also Native American.
Schoolcraft, Henry Rowe, to Anna Jameson. nd. Vol. 36, (1908): 95-100.
A letter containing a short biography of Schoolcraft's wife, the granddaughter of Chief Wau-bo-jeeg of the Chippewa. His wife, who is not named in the account, was born in 1800 and died in 1842.
Shavehead
Copley, A. B. "The Pottawattomies." Vol. 14, (1890): 256-267.
This brief history of the Potawatomi nation contains short biographies of several chiefs, includng Shavehead.
Smith, Edwin S. "Pioneer Days in Kalamazoo and Van Buren." Vol. 14, (1890): 272-280.
This character sketch of the Potawatomi contains short biographies of chiefs including Shavehead.
Shon-e-kay-zhich/Little Jim Fletcher
Gould, Lucius E. "The Passing of the Old Town." Vol. 30, (1906): 352-396.
Pages 367-370 of this account contains a sketch of Shon-e-kay-zhich or Little Jim Fletcher, a white captive raised as an Indian.
Skako
Gould, Lucius E. "The Passing of the Old Town." Vol. 30, (1906): 352-396.
Page 358 of this account contains a sketch of Skako, a Native American chief.
Tanner, John
Gilbert, Angie Bingham. "The Story of John Tanner." Vol. 38, (1912): 196-201.
Tanner was a "white Indian" who was suspected of killing Henry Rowe Schoolcraft's brother. He disappeared and was never again found. While Schoolcraft believed that Tanner was guilty, some sources say that a white army officer committed the crime.
Steere, Joseph H. "Sketch of John Tanner, Known as the 'White Indian.'" Vol. 22, (1893): 246-254.
Tanner was a white man who had been taken prisoner by the Ojibwe as a child. He served the US as an interpreter. He has the distinction of having a state law passed specifically preventing him from harming his daughter, subjecting him to fines or imprisonment. He disappeared after being suspected of killing James Schoolcraft in Sault Ste. Marie in 1846, but another man reportedly confessed to the crime on his deathbed. Tanner was never seen again.
Topinabee
Copley, A. B. "The Pottawattomies." Vol. 14, (1890): 256-267.
This brief history of the Potawatomi nation contains short biographies of several chiefs, includng Topinabee.
Wabojeeg/White Fisher
Chapman, Charles H. "The Historic Johnston Family of the 'Soo.'" Vol 32, (1903): 305-353.
This account of the Johnston family contains a biography of Chief Wa-bo-jeeg, or White Fisher, whose daughter married John Johnston.
Conflicts between Native Americans
Entries are listed chronologically.
Smith, Harlan I. "The Invasion of the Saginaw Valley." Vol. 28, (1897): 642-644.
Legend of a time when the Odawa, Potawatomi , and Ojibwe exterminated the Sauks living in the Saginaw valley.
Bates, William R. "The Development of Flint." Vol. 35, (1907): 359-387.
Discusses Indian names, the Ojibwe's conflict with the Sauks and alliance with the British.
Miller, Albert. "The Rivers of the Saginaw Valley Sixty Years Ago." Vol. 14, (1890): 495-510.
This narrative poem describes the Ojibwe people's battle with the Fox nation and their experiences with smallpox.
Mitchell, W. T. "Legends of Indian History in St. Clair County." Vol. 6, (1884): 416-418.
A secondhand account of the battle in which the Ojibwe pushed the Iroquois out of Michigan.
Marset to Vaudreuil. August 14, 1706. Vol. 33, : 262-269.
Letter regarding the hostilities between the Odawas and the Miamis, and Cadillac's involvement.
Cadillac to Vaudreuil. August 27, 1706. Vol. 33, : 272-285.
Discusses the war between the Maimi and the Odawa, including the Odawa's attack on Detroit.
"Talk of Marquis De Vaudreuil with the Sonnontouans." September 4, 1706. Vol. 33, : 285-288.
Attempting to discover why the Odawa attacked the Maimi at Detroit.
"Speech of Miscouaky, Chief of the Outaouas, to Marquis De Vaudreuil." September 26, 1706. Vol. 33, : 288-294.
Explains that the Odawa attacked the Miami because they were going to attack Odawa villages, that the Odawa Chief Le Pesant proposed the attack and on one could change his mind, and that the French were killed accidentally. Also, they still want to fight the Huron and Miami.
"Replies of m. De Vaudreuil to Miscopuaky, Chief of the Outaouas." November 4, 1706. Vol. 33, : 294-296.
"Words of the Outauois, on the 18th of June with the Answers." June 18, 1707. Vol. 33, : 319-325.
Jean Le Blanc brought prisoners to make amends for the killing of a priest at Detroit, but Vaudreuil demands the head of Le Pesant, who ordered the attack.
"Words of the Outauois, on the 21st of June with the Answers." June 21, 1707. Vol. 33, : 324-326.
Le Blanc says he can't deliver Le Pesant's head because he is allied with many tribes; Vaudreuil says Le Blanc must agree not to obey Le Pesant anymore and must make peace with the Miami and French at Detroit.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. July 24, 1707. Vol. 33, : 328-331.
Concerns Le Blanc's attempts to make reparations for death of Frenchmen at Detroit. He's sincere in offering himself to Cadillac in place of Le Pesant in order to make peace.
"Council Held at Detroit on the 6th of August." August 6, 1707. Vol. 33, : 331-336.
Council between Cadillac and the Odawa to resolve the Odawa and Miami hostilities. Cadillac demands Le Pesant, Miami and Huron demand vengeance, and Cadillac gives them Odawa slaves.
Marest to Vaudreuil. June 21, 1712. Vol. 33, (1904): 553-557.
Recounts an attack by the Odawa and Potawatomi on the Maskoutins and Saginaw's attack and massacre of 800 Fox and Maskoutins. He fears that the Fox, Sauks, Kickapoo, and Puants will join and attack the French post at Michilimackinac.
? to ?. January 10, 1723. Vol. 33, (1904): 710-715.
Report that the Indians at Detroit are planning on making war on the Fox and the Flatheads.
"War between the Fox and Illinois Indians." Vol. 34, (1905): 67-69.
Describes the conflict which took place in August of 1730.
"Boishebert Proceeds Against the Fox Indians." 1732. Vol. 34, (1905): 104-105.
An account of a battle between the Hurons and the Fox, who had constructed a wooden stake fort on the shore of Lake Marameek.
"Indian Affairs at Detroit in the Years 1738-1741." Vol. 34, (1905): 195-202.
Monthly update regarding status of the conflict between the Odawa and Huron nations.
Dobie, Richard. "Memorandums." April 13, 1786. Vol. 11, (1888): 485-488.
This document gives information (population, territory, politics) on the Odawa, Ojibwe, Menominee, Winnebagoes, Sauks, Foxes, and Sioux Indians. Also, it explains that various tribes are at war with each other and how peace could be created via distribution of presents. Montreal.
"To Sir John Johnson Baronet Superintendant General of Indians in the Province of Quebec &c." 1786. Vol. 13, (1889): 79-80.
Committee of merchants requests that Johnson persuade the Indians to cease warring on each other in order to promote trade.
Cass, Lewis. "Menomeenes Massacred at Praire du Chien." August 31, 1831. Vol. 37, (1910): 221-222.
Letter to Governor Porter asking the Indian agent at Green Bay to keep the peace between the Fox and the Menominee nations.
Waite, Minnie B. "Indian and Pioneer Life." Vol. 38, (1912): 318-321.
Includes an account of the Indian settlement in Grand Traverse; a deal between the Odawa and Ojibwe nations; We-we-gen-deby's discovery of the copper "god-kettle"; and the massacre of the Mushcodesh Indians by the Odawa under Saw-ge-maw. The essay also discusses housing, farming, hunting, feasts, etc.
"Menominee County." Vol. 1, (1900): 263-264.
Presents a brief history of the Menominee people, their peaceful nature, and a brief conflict they had with some Ojibwe over sturgeon fishing near Grand Rapids.
Criminality and Legality
This section is composed of a variety of sources (letters, essays, memorandums, etc.) that deal with issues of law, violence, trial, and punishment. Accounts discuss both Native American and Euro-American legal customs and perspectives as well as developments that took place when these different systems interacted. The majority of the crimes discussed are murders committed by both Whites and Indians. Many of the sources make reference to the Saginaw Ojibwe Chief Kishkorko, who had intricate dealings with the law in both cultures during his lifetime.
Entries are listed chronologically.
Henry Basset to Frederick Haldimand. April 29, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 296-299.
Concerns rum trading among the Indians and the murder of a trader by the Shawnee.
Basset to Haldimand. April 28, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 296-298.
Basset to Gage. May 21, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 300-301.
Basset to Gage. June 4, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 301-302.
John Vattas to Haldimand. June 16, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 302-304.
James Andrews to Basset. June 17, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 304-305.
Basset to Haldimand. Aug. 29, 1773. Vol. 19, (1891): 310-311.
Discuss the murder of traders and the suspicion of a conspiracy.
William Johnson to Earl of Dartmouth. December 16, 1773 and April 2, 1774. Vol. 20, (1892): 324-325.
Concerns the murder of four Frenchmen by a party of Senecas. Two of the Senecas had been turned in and Johnson advised making them pay restitution and then releasing them, stating that this was the first time that the Sececa nation had delivered up offenders instead of punishing them in traditional ways.
McKee, Alexander, to Sir John Johnson. February 25, 1786. Vol. 11, (1888): 482-483.
McKee explains that several Indians from the Saginaw, Michigan area were responsible for the murder of four British citizens.
Charlton, Edw. "Murder of an Indian. Captain Charlton to Lieut. Col. England, 1 July 1792." Vol. 12, (1888): 38.
An Ojibwe Indian named Wawenesse was murdered by an angry mob while being taken under arrest at Fort Michilimackinac.
Elliott, M., to Mr. Chew. October 28, 1795. Vol. 12, (1888): 179-180.
Elliott describes the murder trial of an Ojibwe man named Mishinaway, who was acquitted of all charges due to lack of evidence. The Captain's letter includes a copy of the bill for the services of the lawyer who was appointed to defend Mishinaway.
Hull to Dearborn. December 28, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 240-241.
This letter explains that an Ojibwe man named Kish-cou-cough (Kishkorko) had killed a Frenchman around 1800 but eluded the law and become a fugative. This man's father, a highly respected Chief, had asked the government to pardon his son. Hull supports the idea, believing that such an act will help persuade the Ojibwe to ally with the Americans and not the British.
"John R. Williams to Messrs. Boyd and Storm. Burton Library, Gen. John R. Williams Papers, Vol. 19, p. 63. Detroit, 12 Aug 1808." Vol. 37, (1910): 75-76.
Discusses Indians assembling at Detroit to receive annuities and a short battle that took place following the capture of an Indian fugitive.
Robert Dickson to Sec. Freer. January 17, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 42-44.
Dickson demands more supplies, stating that the western Indian nations are considering allying with the United States. He also details the court martial of an Indian who had shot a white trader; suggests that more soldiers be brought west; and mentions that many Indians are starving.
The Murder of Akockis, a Kickapoo Indian. October 4 through October 26, 1815. 13 Items. Vol. 16, (1890): 313-366.
Reginald James to Lewis Cass. October 5, 1815. p. 313.
Lewis Cass to James. October 5, 1815. p. 313-314.
R. Richardson to Col. Caldwell. October 5, 1815. p. 319.
Cass to James. October 7, 1815. p. 314.
Richardson to James. October 9, 1815. p. 323.
James to ? October 12, 1815. p. 322-323.
James to Justices of the Peace, Western District. October 12, 1815. p. 343.
Richardson to James. October 12, 1815. p. 344.
James to Maj. Gen. Robinson. October 16, 1815. p. 344-350.
Caldwell to James. October 21, 1815. p. 354.
James to Robinson. October 25, 1815. p. 362.
Cass to James. October 26, 1815. p. 363-364.
Cass, Lewis. "A Proclamation." n.d. p. 365-366.
Akockis was killed by an American soldier while in his canoe near Grosse Isle. The Americans argued that he was killed in US territorial waters after aiming his gun at an American boat. The British argued that Akockis had done nothing wrong and that the Americans had shot him because he stated that he was a subject of the British.
Trowbridge, Charles C. "Detroit, Past and Present: In Relation to its social and Physical Condition. A Paper read before the Historical Society of Michigan, By Charles C. Trowbridge, May 1864." Vol. 1, (1900): 379.
Contains information on Kishkaukon (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area) and a discussion of two other Indian men, who were tried and hung for the murder of a surgeon.
Whiting, J. L. "Dr. J. L. Whiting's Historic Sketch." Vol. 2, (1880): 460-462.
Dr. Whiting served as the post surgeon at the Saginaw United States Infanty Stockade in 1823. In this account of his experiences there, he describes (in detail) an Ojibwe council at Green Point that dealt with the murder of an Ojibwe man. The individual charged with the crime was Kishkawkaw (Kishkorko).
Williams, B. O. "Early Michigan. Sketch of the Life of Oliver Williams and Family." Vol. 2, (1880): 36-40.
This essay explains the overall friendly relationship that the Williams family enjoyed with the Saginaw area Ojibwe, including Kish Kor Co (Kishkorko).
Stewart, E. M. S., Mrs. "Incidents in the Life of Mr. Eber Ward, Father of Capt. E. B. Ward of Steamboat fame as related to Mrs. E. M. S. Stewart in the Summer of 1852." Vol. 6, (1884): 471-473.
Contains an account of the Ojibwe Chief Kishkaukau's brutality. (Kishkorko).
Sutton, George. "An Old-time Murder in Northfield." Vol. 18, (1891): 511-512.
Details the murder of a Potawatomi woman by her husband, Chief Togush, in 1825.
Jones, George N., Mrs. "Miss Emily Wark, Commonly known as Aunt Emily." Vol. 38, (1912): 581-589.
Describes an 1826 incident on the St. Claire River. Several Indian men, intending to free the Ojibwe Chief Kishkaawko (Kishkorko) from his Detroit jail cell, raided the settlement while all its men were away serving their militia duty. When Aunt Emily fought the Indians off with a broom, they continued onward to Detroit.
"A Visit with a Lady who knew Detroit as a Frontier Post." Vol. 14, (1890): 535-539.
Story of Kish-kaw-koo (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area), and his crime, capture and death. He had murdered a clerk of Judge Riley on the St. Clair River. Also, he committed suicide in his cell before his scheduled hanging.
Ford, Henry. "Historical Detroit." Vol. 10, (1888): 88-97.
Explains that Detroit's first gallows were erected specifically for the execution of an Indian named Kishkaukon (Kishkorko, Ojibwe Chief from the Saginaw bay area). However, he committed suicide in his cell before he could be hung.
Day, John E. "The Lost Finch Boy." Vol. 38, (1912): 153-156.
Explains that a white child disappeared in Romeo and that the Ojibwe Chief Kanobe was suspected. However, there was no proof and the boy was never found. Years later, an imposter claimed to be him, but this was disproved. ca 1829
Day, John E. "Sketches and Incidents Concerning the settlement of Macomb County." Vol. 4, (1883): 307-315.
Day explains several instances of white settlers' children being taken and raised by Indians.
"Agreement Made With Ottawa Chiefs, Sept. 27, 1831, with Endorsement by G B. Porter." Vol. 37, (1910): 222-224.
This document is an agreement regarding the punishment of Muc-ut-a-otta-wa, who assaulted a white man named Isadore Nantain. Nantain lived, so the Indians only had to pay damages out of their next year's annuities payment. However, if the white man had died, then the agreement had stipulated that the Indians would have had to turn Muc-ut-a-otta-wa over to the white authorities in addition to paying for damages.
"First Settlement of Sturgis Prairie," Vol. 18, (1891): 518-521.
Details the encounters of a Mr. Thurston with the Potawatomi people, the murder of an Indian girl by a drunken man, and the story of a young chief who died and was buried like a white man.
St. John, Mrs. "Daily Life, Manners, and Customs of the Indians in Kalamazoo County." Vol. 10, (1880): 166-170.
Describes Odawa and Potawatomi government; knives; crime/punishment regarding murder; construction of wigwams; food; cooking; clothing; teaching/discipline/care for children; roles and treatment of women; courtship and marriage; religion and morals; measurement of time; and personal hygiene.
Hoppin, Ruth. "Personal Recollections of Pioneer Days." Vol. 38, (1912): 410-417.
Racist accounts of encounters with intoxicated Indians. Also explains that an Indian named Joseph Sinbennim murdered a white man named Wisner.
Knowlen, Thomas. "Sin Bin Nim." Vol. 28, (1897): 142-145.
Describes the capture of Joseph Sin Bin Nim, an Indian who murdered Kincaid Weisner in 1839 in Kalamazoo County.
Foote, Edward A. "Historical Sketch of the early days of Eaton County." Vol. 3, (1881): 379-383.
This account describes many aspects of Ojibwe and Potawatomi life: territory, housing and locking methods, making maple sugar, trails, character, teachers, horses, clothing, crimes and punishments, whiskey, the Potawatomi removal of 1840 and resistance to removal.
Goss, Dwight. "The Bench and Bar of Kent County." Vol. 35, (1907): 77-106.
Discusses mostly non-Indian matters, however, this essay does detail the first murder trial in Kent County, in which two white men were accused of killing an Indian woman, 1842-1843.
Day, E. H. "Sketches of the Northwest." Vol. 14, (1890): 205-256.
Reverend Day recounts his experiences as a missionary to the Indians of the extreme western part of Lake Superior, 1845. He discusses tobacco practices, his experiences teaching and preaching, Indian gender roles, religious beliefs, medicine, dances, feasts, totems, death/burial/mourning practices, naming practices, sports and games, justice, polygamy, gift-giving, and levels of success in converting Indians to Christianity.
Hickey, M. "A Missionary Among the Indians." Vol. 4, (1883): 544-556.
Reverend Hickey provides a very detailed account of an Ojibwe council meeting in 1847 at which a murderer was tried and forgiven by the family of the chief whom he killed.
Ethnography - General
This section has been subdivided into four categories: Ojibwe (Chippewa), Odawa (Ottawa), Potawatomi, and General (meaning that the Native Americans discussed in the document are referred to only as "Indians" and not by a more specific or accurate name). Entries include information on subsistence techniques, personality, gender roles, clothing, housing, hospitality, leadership, drinking habits, burial practices, dances, disease, games and social activities, medicines, totems, justice, naming customs, teaching, religious practices, and beliefs, and the process of as well as resistance to the Potawatomi Removal (1840).
General Ethnography
Barber, Edward W. "Beginnings in Eaton County: Its Earliest Settlements and Settlers." Vol. 29, (1901): 337-397.
Pages 346-348 discuss Indian trails, maple sugar, hunting, burial grounds, and the process of Potawatomi Removal in 1840.
Barley, John B. "The Province of Michilimackinac." Vol. 32, (1903): 395-404.
Discusses origins of Indians in Asia, Champlain's explorations, tribes around the Straits of Mackinac, and the origins of the word "mackinac."
Beeson, L. H. "Fort St. Joseph - The Mission, Trading Post and Fort, Located About One Mile south of Niles, Michigan." Vol. 28, (1897): 179-186.
Description of Indian hunting and gathering; Indian wars of the 18th Century, the formation of Fort St. Joseph, and Potawatomi Indian residents.
Brunson, Catherine Calkins. "A Sketch of Pioneer Life Among the Indians." Vol. 28, (1897): 161-163.
This essay presents an account of the beating of a trader by Indians of the Shave Head band over watered whiskey. Also, it tells of a Chief's attempts to take a toll on the Chicago road that passed through Indian land. Finally, it contains a description of burial customs.
Burton, Clarence M. "Amusements in Detroit in Colonial days." Vol. 38, (1912): 324-342.
Discusses Indian weapons, sieges of Detroit, Lacrosse, and Indian goods such as trumpets, drums, and beads. Also mentions the British prohibition against selling brandy to Indians and Pontiac's War.
Cannon, Geo H. "A Sketch of Grand Portage Indian Reservation." Vol. 28, (1897): 418-421.
Physical and historical description of the reservation on Pigeon River in the upper peninsula of Michigan.
Carpenter, C. K. "Squaw Island - How It Received its Name." Vol. 8, (1889): 486-488.
A man named Worden and a group of Indians were drinking whiskey when the Indians became angry. However, they were unable to kill him because the Indian women had taken all the weapons earlier in the night.
Chamberlain, Mary E. "The Legend of Indian Summer." Vol. 32, (1903): 392-394.
Explains how the Sun-god created winter, then fell asleep before implementing it. Also discusses the legend of the shooting star.
Coates, John. "Number of Indians Resorting to Michilimackinac." Vol. 10, (1888): 635-636.
Numerical breakdown of how many Indians from various tribes had journeyed to the fort. Coates, clerk to the Indian department, estimated the total at 4020 on September 10, 1782.
Coates, John. "Number of Indians Resorting to Michilimackinac." Vol. 13, (1889): 70.
Total number of Indian persons at Michilimackinac: 4020 on September 10, 1782. Includes breakdown by tribe.
Custard, Alexander, Mrs. "The French Settlement of St. Joseph County." Vol. 38, (1912): 401-405.
Explains that the Nottawaseepe reservation was the result of the 1821 Chicago Treaty. Also describes the relationship between the People of the Three Fires and Morrean, a Frenchman who taught the Indians to drink. Finally, this essay explains Sauqupquette's attempt to kill a signer of the 1833 Removal Treaty.
Day, E. H. "Sketches of the Northwest." Vol. 14, (1890): 205-256.
Reverend Day recounts his experiences as a missionary to the Indians of the extreme western part of Lake Superior, 1845. He discusses tobacco practices, his experiences teaching and preaching, Indian gender roles, religious beliefs, medicine, dances, feasts, totems, death/burial/mourning practices, naming practices, sports and games, justice, polygamy, gift giving, and levels of success in converting Indians to Christianity.
Day, John E. "Sketches and Incidents Concerning the settlement of Macomb County." Vol. 4, (1883): 307-315.
Day explains several instances of white settlers' children being taken and raised by Indians.
Dobie, Richard. "Memorandums." April 13, 1786. Vol. 11, (1888): 485-488.
This document gives information (population, territory, politics) on the Odawa, Ojibwe, Menominee, Winnebagoes, Sauks, Foxes, and Sioux Indians. Also, it explains that various tribes are at war with each other and how peace could be created via a dristibution of presents. Montreal.
Doyle, William. "Requests for Indian Presents." Vol. 12, (1888): 82-84.
Doyle sends a detailed request of the supplies he would like to have at Fort Michilimackinac for Indian gifts in 1794. He also notes an upcoming peace conference, the importance of tobacco, and the good conduct of the Indians engaged in trade.
Ferry, William M. "Ottawa's Old Settlers." Vol. 30, (1906): 572-582.
Relates an incident with Rev. Slater, an interpreter and writer of books in the Indian languages. Slater uses a feminine version of the language at a council meeting and is mocked by the men. Also, the essay discusses the Shiawasse attempts to form a confederacy.
Foote, Edward A. "Historical Sketch of the early days of Eaton County." Vol. 3, (1881): 379-383.
This account describes many aspects of Ojibwe and Potawatomi life: territory, housing and locking methods, making maple sugar, trails, character, teachers, horses, clothing, crimes and punishments, whiskey, the Potawatomi removal of 1840 and resistance to removal.
Goss, Dwight. "The Indians of Grand River Valley." Vol. 30, (1906): 172-190.
Discusses the settling of Michigan by the People of the Three Fires (Odawa, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi ); traders (including Langlade); missions; sketches of various Indian villages and chiefs; Indian names for towns and rivers; 1836 and 1855 treaties; annuities; social customs; houses; and a general character sketch.
Gould, Lucas E. "Four Papers on the Early History of Shiawassee County." Vol. 32, (1903): 247-304.
Pages 275-279 discuss Indian burial mounds and orchards, as well as missions.
Gray, Martha. "Reminiscences of Grand Traverse Region." Vol. 38, (1912): 285-318.
Discusses legends of Great Manitou and Manabooza.
Haines, Blanch M. "French and Indian Footprints at Three Rivers on the St. Joseph." Vol. 38, (1912): 386-397.
Mentions Cushaway / Cush-ee-wee, a Potawatomi chief; Indian burial grounds; excavations of graves and lists of contents, including pictures.
Hayes, A. M. "Reminiscences of Pioneer Days in Hastings." Vol. 26, (1895): 235-241.
Page 238 discusses experiences with Indian honey and maple syrup, the evils of alcohol and other typical description of "savage" Indians and their "heathenish" ways.
Hazelton, Geo. H. "Reminiscences of Seventeen Years Residence in Michigan, 1836-1853." Vol. 21, (1892): 370-418.
Pages 402 - 406 are an account of a trip up the Tittabawassee River to find a copper mine, and the resulting stay with the Indians.
Holmes, John C. "Poineer Society of Michigan. Annual Meeting, June 7, 1882. Address of President John C. Holmes." Vol. 5, (1884): 3-9.
Briefly discusses the gathering / trading places, courting customs, musical instruments, and personal ornamentation of Indians of the "western tribes."
Hoppin, Ruth. "Personal Recollections of Pioneer Days." Vol. 38, (1912): 410-417.
Racist accounts of encounters with intoxicated Indians. Also explains that an Indian named Joseph Sinbennim murdered a white man named Wisner.
Jerks, William L. "History and Meaning of the Names of Michigan." Vol. 38, (1912): 439-478.
Tells the history and possible meanings of Michigan county names and correlates names of specific Indians to the original names of several counties.
Johnson, Wm. W. "Indian Names in the County of Mackinac." Vol. 12, (1888): 375-381.
Translations of Indian names for rivers, islands, and areas of the upper and lower peninsulas near the straits of Mackinac.
Knaggs, May Stocking. "Memoir of James Knaggs, of Monroe." Vol. 17, (1890): 217-225.
Mentions an attempt made by the Indians to collect the bounty on Knaggs' father (220-221); general stories about Indian duplicity (221-222); and the death of Tecumseh (223).
"List, Location, and Number of Indians." Vol. 20, (1892): 305-307.
Contains information on the Tete de Boule, Huron, Missaguas, Ojibwe, Odawa, Potawatomi , Sauk, Fox, and other nations.
Little, Frank. "Early Recollections of the Indians about Bull Prairie." Vol. 27, (1896): 330-338.
Reminiscences of Indians at Detroit in 1831, the Black Hawk War, mound builders, and a sketch of Ojibwe Chief Maungwudaus, who had traveled with George Catlin to Europe and met Henry Clay and Zachary Taylor.
"Menominee County." Vol. 1, (1900): 263-264.
Presents a brief history of the Menominee people, their peaceful nature, and a brief conflict they had with some Ojibwe over sturgeon fishing near Grand Rapids.
"Numbers of the Savage Tribes Who are in Connection with the Government of Canada." n.d. (1712) Vol. 33, (1904): 552-553.
Potawatomi , Huron, Odawa, and Mississaguas. Includes a description of the coat of arms of each tribe.
Osband, Melvin D. "The Michigan Indians." Vol. 29, (1901): 697-709.
This account of the Native Americans of Michigan is deeply rooted in the manifest-destiny perspective of nineteenth century white Americans. It contains a lengthy essay about civilization and savagery, as well as discussion of treaties and of Pontiac's Conspiracy.
Osband, Melvin D. "The Pioneer and His Works." Vol. 29, (1901): 709-717.
This essay is characteristic of the manifest-destiny perspective of nineteenth century white Americans. It discusses the perceived conflict between civilization and savagery, and argues that the Indians were doomed to lose their lands, etc.
"Primitive Kalamazoo." Vol. 18, (1891): 595-597.
Account of first settlers in Kalamazoo area; Indian chief "King-Nose;" friendly relations with Indians; especially how generous and trustworthy they were.
"Reports on American Colonies." Vol. 19, (1891): 3-8.
A description of British holdings in North America, 1721-1762; includes information about Miami, Odawa, Illinois, Nokes, Sauk, and Puans.
"The Return of the Indians on the Grand river." October 16, 1816. Vol. 16, (1890): 541.
Claus, W. "Flour Provision Record." December 26, 1816. Vol. 16, (1890): 555.
"Return of the Indians on the Grand river." February 17, 1817. Vol. 16, (1890): 565-566.
List of numbers of Indians who returned to the Grand River; including Mohawks, Onandaga, Sececa, Onieda, Oghqwagas, Cayugas, Tuscaroras, Tutalies, Muntures, Nanticokes, and Deleware. Also contains information as to how much flour each of these tribes was to receive.
Roberts, R. E. "Arenda." Vol. 4, (1883): 111.
Mentions the Indian belief that "some of their number have the power to afflict as they may wish, with bodily ailments . . . and that they can exercise this power from a distance as well as when present." This document compares these Indian beliefs to the "Salem delusions."
Scott-Schettler, Eliza M. "Lights and Shadows from Pioneer Life." Vol. 35, (1907): 184-198.
The Scott family's negative and positive experiences with Indians while living near Detroit and on Mackinac Island in the first half of the 19th century.
Seymour, C. B. "Early Days in Old Washtenaw County." Vol. 28, (1897): 391-399.
Page 395 provides a typical account of drunken Indians, including infighting between Potawatomi and Odawa, and mentions the possibilities of Indian uprisings.
Smith, Harlan I. "Certain Shamanistic Ceremonies Among the Ojibwas." Vol. 32, (1903): 461-462.
Discusses syncretic religion, Methodist and Midewin healing ceremonies.
Sutton, George. "Battle of the Bee-Tree at Sutton's Corners." Vol. 18, (1891): 509-510.
This essay recounts a fight between the Allen family and an unnamed group of Indians over honey in 1826.
Ten Broeck, Joseph A. "Old Keweenaw." Vol. 30, (1906): 139-149.
A History of the Keweenaw area that discusses Indians (143-144) and their loyalty toward whites.
Thorpe, Calvin J. "Pioneer and Aborigine." Vol. 28, (1897): 467-478.
Unbiased, even favorable toward Indians, this essay is a history of Indian / White relations, treaties, Indian roads, bridges, tanning, and food preservation. Also includes an account of Shave-head, a rare "bad chief;" praise for the generosity of Indians; and the removal of the Potawatomi.
Towner, Julia Belle. "My Mother's Girlhood." Vol. 35, (1907): 180-183.
Discusses settler contact, mostly peaceful, with Oakland county, Michigan, Indians in the 1830s and 1840s. Special attention is given to translating various words of Native American languages.
Van Buren, A. D. P. "The First Settlers in the Township of Battle Creek." Vol. 5, (1884): 272-293.
The author quotes Erastus Hussey, a pioneer in Michigan who discussed, in 1836, the local legends of Indians in the Battle Creek area.
Van Buren, A. D. P. "Story of the Bau Beese Indians." Vol. 28, (1897): 530-533.
Story of a band of Indians near Hillsdale county ca 1828. Bau Besse was their chief, Meteah was their war chief. This account praises the Indians' reliability, trustworthiness, and hunting skills. The author also expresses anger at their removal westward in 1840.
Walker, C. I. "Early Detroit." Vol. 8, (1886): 415-443.
Includes information on Potawatomi , Fox, Iroquois, Miamis, Ojibwe, and Huron Indians. Also contains a detailed account of an attempt by the Foxes to destroy the fort in 1712.
Williams, Jeremiah D. "History of the Town of Webster." Vol. 13, (1889): 546-567.
Briefly discusses encounters that early white settlers had with Indians.
Withey, Marion L. H. "Personal Recollections of Early Days in Kent County." Vol. 39, (1915): 345-352.
Includes a description of large Indian camps along the Grand River in October of 1836, when the Native Americans were waiting for their government annuities payments.
Ethnography - Odawa
Odawa Ethnography
"Appointment to All Whom It May Concern." May 3, 1835. Vol. 12, (1888): 621-622.
Notice by which the northern Michigan Odawa and Ojibwe appoint Augustin Hamelin, Jr. as "head chief" of their bands. Fifty-eight chiefs, whose names are listed, witnessed the document.
Fraser, Thomas. "Return of Indian Settlers at the Chenail Ecarte and Harsen's Island." October 26, 1797. Vol. 20, (1892): 564.
This document provides numbers of Odawa people settled at Chenail Ecarte and Harsen's Island.
Goodyear, Henry A. "Indians of Barry County." Vol. 35, (1907): 637-643.
Explains Odawa and Potawatomi character, "pow-wows," clothing, naming of white people, wigwams, division of labor, gender roles, boats, childhood activities, experience with alcohol, short biography of chief "Pecitiac."
Humphrey, James W. "The Selkirk Reservation." Vol. 32, (1903): 381-383.
Allegan County bands of Odawa and Ojibwe Indians. Selkirk was sent in 1838 as a missionary, Sagamaw was the group's leader. This document is a typically racist account of "inferior" Indians.
"Return of Indians, Ottawas and Chippewas settled at Chenail Ecarte." June 27, 1799 Vol. 20, (1892): 641-642.
This return consists of Indians from the following bands: Big Bowls - Odawa, Big Bears - Ojibwe, Saginaw Ojibwe.
"A Return of Ottawas and Chippewas settled at Chenail Ecarte Comprehending Men, Women, and Children." July 1798. Vol. 20, (1892): 617-618.
Includes a note on intermarriage between Big Bears and Big Bowls bands of Odawa.
Seymour, C. B. "Early Days in Old Washtenaw County." Vol. 28, (1897): 391-399.
Page 395 provides a typical account of drunken Indians, including infighting between Potawatomi and Odawa, mentions the possibilities of Indian uprisings.
St. John, Mrs. "Daily Life, Manners, and Customs of the Indians in Kalamazoo County." Vol. 10, (1880): 166-170.
Describes Odawa and Potawatomi government; knives; crime/punishment regarding murder; construction of wigwams; food; cooking; clothing; teaching/discipline/care for children; roles and treatment of women; courtship and marriage; religion and morals; measurement of time; and personal hygiene.
Waite, Minnie B. "Indian and Pioneer Life." Vol. 38, (1912): 318-321.
Includes an account of the Indian settlement in Grand Traverse; a deal between the Odawa and Ojibwe nations; We-we-gen-deby's discovery of the copper "god-kettle"; and the massacre of the Mushcodesh Indians by the Odawa under Saw-ge-maw. The essay also discusses housing, farming, hunting, feasts, etc.
Willard, George. "The making of Michigan." Vol. 17, (1890): 295-310.
States that Odawa and Potawatomi people were peaceful, willing to welcome whites, and not warlike.
Ethnography - Ojibwe
Ojibwe Ethnography
"Appointment to All Whom It May Concern." May 3, 1835. Vol. 12, (1888): 621-622.
Notice by which the northern Michigan Odawa and Ojibwe appoint Augustin Hamelin, Jr. as "head chief" of their bands. Fifty-eight chiefs, whose names are listed, witnessed the document.
Bates, William R. "The Development of Flint." Vol. 35, (1907): 359-387.
Discusses Indian names, the Ojibwe's conflict with the Sauks and alliance with the British.
Foote, Edward A. "Historical Sketch of the early days of Eaton County." Vol. 3, (1881): 379-383.
This account describes many aspects of Ojibwe and Potawatomi life: territory, housing and locking methods, making maple sugar, trails, character, teachers, horses, clothing, crimes and punishments, whiskey, the Potawatomi removal of 1840 and resistance to removal.
Fraser, Thomas. "Return of Indian Settlers at the Chenail Ecarte and Harsen's Island." October 26, 1797. Vol. 20, (1892): 564.
This document provides numbers of Odawa people settled at Chenail Ecarte and Harsen's Island.
Humphrey, James W. "The Selkirk Reservation." Vol. 32, (1903): 381-383.
Allegan County bands of Odawa and Ojibwe Indians. Selkirk was sent in 1838 as a missionary, Sagamaw was the group's leader. This document is a typically racist account of "inferior" Indians.
Johnston, Geo. "Reminiscences by Geo. Johnston, of Sault Ste. Marys, 1815." Vol. 12, (1888): 605-611.
Geo. Johnston, the son of John Johnston, recounts numerous experiences his family had with local Ojibwe people.
Little, Frank. "Early Recollections of the Indians about Bull Prairie." Vol. 27, (1896): 330-338.
Reminiscences of Indians at Detroit in 1831, the Black Hawk War, mound builders, and a sketch of Ojibwe Chief Maungwudaus, who had traveled with George Catlin to Europe, and met Henry Clay and Zachary Taylor.
"Menominee County." Vol. 1, (1900): 263-264.
Presents a brief history of the Menominee people, their peaceful nature, and a brief conflict they had with some Ojibwe over sturgeon fishing near Grand Rapids.
Miller, Albert. "Incidents in the Early History of the Saginaw Valley." Vol. 13, (1889): 351-383.
Describes Ojibwe reservation of 40,000 acres, the process of hiring Indian guides, experiencing Indian hospitality, and specific oral histories of the Ojibwe.
Miller, Albert. "The Rivers of the Saginaw Valley Sixty Years Ago." Vol. 14, (1890): 495-510.
This narrative poem describes the Ojibwe people's battle with the Fox nation and their experiences with smallpox.
Niles, M. J. "Old Times in Clinton County." Vol. 14, (1890): 620-626.
Mentions Indians entering the homes of white settlers, looking for food. This essay also briefly discusses Okemos, an Ojibwe Chief, and the items he was buried with in 1858.
"Return of Indians, Ottawas and Chippewas settled at Chenail Ecarte, June 27, 1799." Vol. 20, (1892): 641-642.
This return consists of Indians from the following bands: Big Bowls - Odawa, Big Bears - Ojibwe, Saginaw Ojibwe.
"A Return of Ottawas and Chippewas settled at Chenail Ecarte Comprehending Men, Women, and Children." July 1798. Vol. 20, (1892): 617-618.
Includes a note on intermarriage between Big Bears and Big Bowls bands of Odawa.
Scott, A. H. "Indians in Kalamazoo County." Vol. 10, (1888): 163-166.
The letter describes the Kalamazoo Indian reservation's lands, Indian subsistence methods, white settler / Indian interaction, trade, government furnishings, Chief Sagamaw, and the influence of whiskey. 1830's and 1840's.
Shout, Mary E. "Reminiscences of the First Settlement at Owosso." Vol. 30, (1906): 344-352.
Mentions Chief Wasso, the Shiawassee band of Ojibwe, and various accounts of Indians in states of drunkenness and wickedness.
Smith, Harlan I. "Scientific Uses for Michigan." Vol. 32, (1903): 459-460.
Analyzes the Ojibwe "myth" about hunting and the war path.
Stebbins, F. R. "An Old Time Trip." Vol. 9, (1886): 108-118.
Includes an interesting description of an Ojibwe "war dance," approximately 1851.
Waite, Minnie B. "Indian and Pioneer Life." Vol. 38, (1912): 318-321.
Includes an account of the Indian settlement in Grand Traverse; a deal between the Odawa and Ojibwe nations; We-we-gen-deby's discovery of the copper "god-kettle"; and the massacre of the Mushcodesh Indians by the Odawa under Saw-ge-maw. The essay also discusses housing, farming, hunting, feasts, etc.
Williams, B. O. "Early Michigan. Sketch of the Life of Oliver Williams and Family." Vol. 2, (1880): 36-40.
This essay explains the overall friendly relationship that the Williams family enjoyed with the Saginaw area Ojibwe, including Kish Kor Co (Kishkorko).
Williams, B. O. "First Settlement of Shiawassee County." Vol. 2, (1880): 476-477.
Describes the land, plant life, food, and maple syrup of the 3000 acre Ojibwe Indian Reservation on the Shiawassee River in 1829. This account also contains a vague story of Indians sacrificing dogs to "the spirit of the river."
Williams, B. O. "Shiawassee County, First Settlement of Shiawassee County - Written by B. O. Williams and Published in the Owosso Weekly Press in May, 1872." Vol. 2, (1880): 475-488.
Williams describes many aspects of the Ojibwe people he became associated with via the fur trade, 1830-1840. His narrative includes commentary on their territory, past treaties and associated rights, subsistence methods, "hospitable" character, use of alcohol, spring and summer games, and the affects of diseases (specifically cholera and smallpox) in 1832-1837.
Williams, E. S. "Legends of Indian History in Saginaw Valley." Vol. 10, (1888): 134-136.
Describes the Saginaw Ojibwe belief that the woods were haunted by their defeated enemies, the Sauks (called the Mun-e-soos). Also, Williams describes Ojibwe sturgeon fishing, marksmanship, and feasts.
Williams, E. S. "Personal Reminiscences." Vol. 8, (1886): 233-260.
Explains a Saginaw Ojibwe superstition regarding the Sauk people, the "Manesoos." Also relates the healing abilities of Ojibwe medicine men.
Ethnography -Potawatomi
Potawatomi Ethnography
Barber, Edward W. "Beginnings in Eaton County: Its Earliest Settlements and Settlers." Vol. 29, (1901): 337-397.
Pages 346-348 discuss Indian trails, maple sugar, hunting, burial grounds, and the process of Potawatomi Removal in 1840.
Barber, Edward. W. "The Vermontville Colony: Its Genesis and history, with Personal Sketches of the Colonists." Vol. 28, (1897): 197-265.
Pages 227-229 provide a sketch of the Potawatomi at Vermontville. Mostly flattering, including one interesting portrait of a Chief, Sauby, who wanted to marry a white woman.
Beeson, L. H. "Fort St. Joseph - The Mission, Trading Post and Fort, Located About One Mile south of Niles, Michigan." Vol. 28, (1897): 179-186.
Description of Indian hunting and gathering; Indian wars of the 18th century, the formation of Fort St. Joseph, and Potawatomi Indian residents.
Brevoort, Henry N. "The Indians, the Earlier Possessors of Grosse Ile." Vol. 35, (1907): 557-559.
Discusses the Potawatomi subsistence methods, gender roles, and alcohol drinking habits.
Caldwell, Helen Nichols. "Indian Reminiscences." Vol. 21, (1892): 297-313.
Discusses removal of Potawatomi from Eaton County in 1840; anecdotes about relations with Indians.
Chevallier to Haldimand. Feb. 28, 1778. Vol. 19, (1891): 375-376.
Chevallier's essay on the character of the Potawatomi nation.
Copley, A. B. "The Pottawattomies." Vol. 14, (1890): 256-267.
The author relates a brief history, including conflicts with other nations, participation in the Pontiac and Tecumseh revolts, and their treaties with the US government. Copley also discusses subsistence methods, hunting, trading, gender roles, clothing, etc. This essay also includes short biographies of Topinabee, Pokagon, and Shavehead.
Custard, Alexander, Mrs. "The French Settlement of St. Joseph County." Vol. 38, (1912): 401-405.
Explains that he Nottawaseepe reservation was the result of the 1821 Chicago Treaty. Also describes the relationship between the People of the Three Fires and Morrean, a Frenchman who taught the Indians to drink. Finally, this essay explains Sauqupquette's attempt to kill a signer of the 1833 Removal Treaty.
Dewey, F. A. "Address at the Farmers' Picnic, Devils Lake, August 22, 1883." Vol. 7, (1886): 536-542.
Explains several aspects of Potawatomi life in southern Michigan, including foods, lands, hospitality, participation in the War of 1812, removal, and the lives of Chiefs Mitteau and Bawbese.
Dodge, Mrs. Frank P. "Landmarks of Lenauee County." Vol. 38, (1912): 478-491.
Describes Potawatomi Indians as gentle and friendly. Mentions chiefs Bawbese and Maginaswot and condemns the government for Potawatomi removal.
"First Settlement of Sturgis Prairie," Vol. 18, (1891): 518-521.
Details the encounters of a Mr. Thurston with the Potawatomi people, the murder of an Indian girl by a drunken man, and the story of a young chief who died and was buried like a white man.
Foote, Edward A. "Historical Sketch of the early days of Eaton County." Vol. 3, (1881): 379-383.
This account describes many aspects of Ojibwe and Potawatomi life: territory, housing and locking methods, making maple sugar, trails, character, teachers, horses, clothing, crimes and punishments, whiskey, the Potawatomi removal of 1840 and resistance to removal.
"G. H. Escape from Five Pottawatomie Indians in 1814." Vol. 12, (1888): 436-455.
The unidentified author recounts his experiences with Indians in the Old Northwest Territory.
Goodyear, Henry A. "Indians od Barry County." Vol. 35, (1907): 637-643.
Explains Odawa and Potawatomi character, "pow-wows," clothing, naming of white people, wigwams, division of labor, gender roles, boats, childhood activities, experience with alcohol, and a short biography of chief "Pecitiac."
Haines, Blanch M. "French and Indian Footprints at Three Rivers on the St. Joseph." Vol. 38, (1912): 386-397.
Mentions Cushaway / Cush-ee-wee, a Potawatomi chief; Indian burial grounds; excavations of graves and lists of contents, including pictures.
Hobart, N. P. "Letter to hon. Charles Dickey, Marshall, Athens, December 23, 1878." Vol. 3, (1881): 368-369.
Mr. Hobart's letter describes the process of Potawatomi removal in Michigan, listing several Indians with whom he was acquainted that escaped to Canada.
"Indian Council." Vol. 10, (1888): 170-172.
Transcripts of a meeting between US Indian agent Isaac S. Ketchum and chiefs of the Potawatomi nation that took place in St. Joseph county, MI on August 20, 1839. Ketchum informed the Indians that the time had come for them to be removed west of the Mississippi. The Indians stated that they would never go.
McGee, Melville. "The Early days of Concord, jackson County, Michigan." Vol. 21, (1892): 418-431.
Pages 425-427 contain a prejudiced account that describes the character of the Potawatomi people.
"Our Forerunners," Vol. 18, (1891): 600-605.This is a history of the Miami and Potawatomi settlement in the Kalamazoo area, 1600s - 1840.
Seymour, C. B. "Early Days in Old Washtenaw County." Vol. 28, (1897): 391-399.
Page 395 provides a typical account of drunken Indians, including infighting between Potawatomi and Odawa, and mentions the possibilities of Indian uprisings.
St. John, Mrs. "Daily Life, Manners, and Customs of the Indians in Kalamazoo County." Vol. 10, (1880): 166-170.
Describes Odawa and Potawatomi government; knives; crime/punishment regarding murder; construction of wigwams; food; cooking; clothing; teaching/discipline/care for children; roles and treatment of women; courtship and marriage; religion and morals; measurement of time; and personal hygiene.
Smith, Edwin S. "Pioneer Days in Kalamazoo and Van Buren." Vol. 14, (1890): 272-280.
Discusses Potawatomi peoples' general disposition toward white settlers. Also contains information on Potawatomi gender roles, clothing, weapons, horses, alcohol drinking habits, leadership, suffrage, and a few short biographies, including Shavehead.
Thorpe, Calvin J. "Pioneer and Aborigine." Vol. 28, (1897): 467-478.
Unbiased, even favorable toward Indians, this essay is a history of Indian / White relations, treaties, Indian roads, bridges, tanning, and food preservation. Also includes an account of Shave-head, a rare "bad chief;" praise for the generosity of Indians; and the removal of the Potawatomi.
Turner, Jesse. "Reminiscences of Kalamazoo." Vol. 18, (1891): 570-588.
Discusses the Potawatomi Indians' snakebite cure; games with bows and arrows; a trip to Malden in Canada for their last payment from the British in 1833; a fight and a dance between Turner's party and some Indians; the burial of an Indian woman near Bellvue; intermarriage among Ottawa and French; dances at Burdick; description of an Indian "Princess;" and muskrat hunting.
Weissert, "The Indians and the Trading Posts in the Northwest of Barry County, Michigan." Vol. 38, (1912): 654-672.
Contains a description of Potawatomi villages and meeting places at Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo; history of the Indian settlements; Tecumseh; hunting and fishing; gardening; settlements; medicine; councils; trails; canoes; burial customs; removal; and Newequa Geezig or Chief Noonday.
Willard, George. "The Making of Michigan." Vol. 17, (1890): 295-310.
States that Odawa and Potawatomi people were peaceful, willing to welcome whites, and not warlike.
Van Buren, A. D. P. "Story of the Bau Beese Indians." Vol. 28, (1897): 530-533.
Story of a band of Indians near Hillsdale county ca 1828. Bau Besse was their chief, Meteah was their war chief. This account praises the Indians' reliability, trustworthiness, and hunting skills. The author also expresses anger at their removal westward in 1840.
Fur Trade
Entries
are listed chronologically.
Campigny to ?. October 13, 1697. Vol. 33, (1904): 72-77.
Trading licences to go among the Odawa are being revoked by the King. Also refers to trade with the Miami and Sioux.
Beauharnois and Hocquart. "Plans to Prevent the English from Trading with the Indians." October 15, 1730. Vol. 34, (1905): 70-72
Authors recommend newer and more goods and the creation of a Detroit garrison of 50-60 men.
Perrault, Jean Baptiste. "Narrative of the Travels and Adventures of a Merchant Voyager in the Savage Territories of Northern America Leaving Montreal the 28th of May 1783 (to 1820)." Vol. 37, (1910): 508-619.
First person narrative of life in the fur trade industry, with maps.
Williams, Meade C. "The Early Fur Trade in North America." Vol. 35, (1907): 58-73.
A detailed history of the fur trade in the 1820s, including statistical information on the various exchange rates of furs for goods.
Johnston, William. "Letters on the Fur Trade 1833." Vol. 37, (1910): 132-207.
Johnston's letters to his sister from July 23 to November 28, 1833. They detail his travels and exeriences in the Northwest Territory fur trade.
Gilbert, Thomas O. "Development of Western Michigan." Vol. 17, (1890): 319-325.
Contains descriptions of three fur traders from the 1830s: Rix Robinson, Louis Campeau, and William Lasley.
General Relations with the Americans
This section is comprised mostly of letters, speeches, and memoranda of American officials such as Henry Knox (as Secretary of War), Lewis Cass (as General and later as Governor), and William Hull (General and Governor). For specific information concerning Indian relations with various governments during the time periods of the American Revolution, Battle of Fallen Timbers, or War of 1812, see the sections that bear those titles.
Entries are listed chronologically.
Ancrum, W., to ?. October 13, 1786. Vol. 24, (1894): 35-39.
Report on a US attack on Shawnee towns.
"Additional News from Detroit." December 11, 1790. Vol. 24, (1894): 159-162.
Recounts Indian attack on US militia near Detroit in October.
Henry Knox to Thomas Proctor. March 11, 1791. Vol. 24, (1894): 180-186.
Secretary of War's instructions to head of the mission to the Miami and Wabash Indians. Proctor is to convince them to attend a treaty council at Fort Washington. Includes a speech from Knox addressed to the Indians.
Knox to ?. March 21, 1791. Vol. 24, (1894): 186-197.
Knox's instructions for the protection of frontier settlements in case of a war with the Indians. Includes plans for building forts that Knox acknowledges will anger the British.
"Letters of Col. John Frances Hamtramck." Vol. 34, (1905): 734-740.
This series of letters charts the diplomatic relations between Indians and American government officials in the months which preceeded the signing of the Treaty of Greenville in 1795.
Reverend Joseph Badger to William Hull. July 30, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 63-65.
Hull to Badger. August 7, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 65-66.
Badger to Hull. August 20, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 66-68.
Badger is a missionary to Wyandots, and is helping The Crane deal with attempts by Isaac Williams to defraud the Wyandots out of their land. He encourages them to teach their children English and to abstain from alcohol. He reports several incidents of whites attacking Indians, and wants the offenders driven away.
Chitta (Isaac Williams) to Walk In The Water. August 6, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 75-76.
Williams is American who is attempting to convince the Wyandots that the Treaty of Swan Creek was fraudulent. In reality, Williams is trying to defraud the Indians of their land.
Wilkinson, J. "Proclamation in Regard to Trade." August 26, 1805. Vol. 25: 217.
Wilkinson is the Superintendant of Indian Affairs for the Territory of Louisiana. He is trying to prohibit the citizens of foreign countries from trading with Indians on the Missouri River.
Hull to Henry Dearborn. September 19, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 58-62.
Hull has convinced the chiefs of the Wyandots to stay friendly with the United States. Includes speeches from the Wyandots who are angry at Isaac Williams' attempts to defraud them of their land. They also ask for a blacksmith per the terms of the Treaty of Greenville.
Hull to Henry Dearborn. October 28, 1805. Vol. 40, (1929): 77-78.
Concerning Western Indians' entreaties to the Ojibwe, Potawatomi , Odawa, and Shawnee to join in a confederacy against the US. Also, more information on Isaac Williams.
Griswold, Stanley. "General Orders 15." November 15, 1805. Vol. 36, (1908): 159-161.
Griswold urges a defensive stance against the local Indians who seem tranquil but might be induced to revolt by the western Indian confederacy.
J. Dunham to Hull. May 20, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 123-127.
Dunham is fearful of Indian activities and councils around Michilimackinac. He fears that they may be due to the efforts of Tenskwatawa, the Shawnee Prophet, whom Dunham refers to as "Second Adam." Dunham's efforts to arrest the Prophet failed.
Dunham to Hull. June 18, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 142-143.
The Ojibwe and Odawa at Michilimackinac refuse to attend a treaty council on the advice of the Shawnee Prophet, but still want their annuities.
Hull to Dearborn. June 22, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 139-142.
Recounts a council with the Ojibwe and the influence of Tenskwatawa, who Hull thinks is a British agent.
Hull to Dearborn. July 4, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 151-153.
Reports the refusal of the Saginaw Indians to attend a council. Includes a description of Machonse, a chief who receives more annuity money than others in his nation and may have murdered someone.
Hull to Dearborn. July 25, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 159-162.
Fearful of an attack by the northwestern Indian confederacy as a result of Tenskwatawa's influence. Hull thinks the Prophet is a British agent. He also believes that the Odawa, Ojibwe, Wyandots, and Potawatomi are friendly to the US.
Hull to Dearborn. August 4, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 169-171.
Hull says he will not pursue a new treaty because the Native Americans are angry with the US, are going to the British for presents, and the Potawatomi may be preparing to strike against the US.
Woodward, Augustus. "Reports of Indian Alarms." August 14, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 174-177.
List of seven reports by settlers of Indian activities at Lake Erie, Michilimackinac, and Chicago. Includes a report that Detroit is to be taken and all Americans are to be killed.
Hull to Dearborn. August 16, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 182-187.
Local Indians have vowed not to help the Confederacy or the British, but Hull has plans in case of an attack.
Hull to Dearborn. September 9, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 197-203.
Odawa, Ojibwe, Potawatomi , and Wyandots vow their friendship to the US and denounce Tenskwatawa. Blue Jacket assures Hull that the Prophet is actually friendly to the US, and that he merely wants the Indians to refrain from drinking. Hull requests more money to spend keeping the Indians happy.
Hull to Dearborn. November 24, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 253-254.
Aubayway, chief of unnamed tribe, assures Hull that he rejected British entreaties to rise against the US.
Hull to Dearborn. December 5, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 255-257.
Again, the local Indians assure Hull that they will support the US. Also, reports of British attempts to get them to attack Detroit.
Hull to William Eustis. January 25, 1810. Vol. 40, (1929): 310-311.
Hull asks for more money for Indian annuities and department expenses. Describes the threat of the Indians going to the British or attacking the US if they are not given enough food and gifts.
"Regulations for the Indian Department." September 15, 1814. Vol. 32, (1903): 553-555.
From the Governor of Michigan, regulating presents, annuities, agents, interpreters, and other matters.
"A List of Indian Agents and Interpreters." February 16, 1815. Vol. 32, (1903): 567.
A list of 23 names including their residences.
Woodbridge Papers. May 6-July 9, 1815. Vol. 32, (1903): 567-573.
This section contains letter to and from Governor Woodbridge relating to Indians after the Treaty of Ghent, the sale of liquor, and general trade with the Indians.
Lewis Cass to Major Burwick. July 28, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 186-187.
Cass demands that Canadian Indians stop attacking US boats and settlers on Hickory Island.
R. James to William Henry Harrison. August 29, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 229-231.
Resolves the question of whether the various Native American tribes were aware of all the articles of the Treaty of Ghent, but neither side (US or British) is sure that the Indians will abide by the terms for long.
William Henry Puthoff to Daniel Mitchell. September 9-October 5, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 252-255.
This exchange of letters regards Puthoff's banning of Elizabeth Mitchell from interacting with the Indians at Mackinac because she has no ties to either the British or the US. She was selling liquor to the Indians in violation of US law.
Cass to the President. August 8, 1825. Vol. 36, (1908): 502-504.
Cass angry that British newspapers are attacking US Indian policies. He also opposes the removal of the Indians to the west of the Mississippi, a position which he later reversed.
Cass to Secretary of War. November 26, 1828. Vol. 36, (1908): 567-569.
Cass wants extra pay for serving as acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs and doing extra duty per instructions of the War Department.
"Petitions Regarding Depredations by Chippewas, 1831." October 9, 1831. Vol. 37, (1910): 225-228.
The citizens of the township of Hamtramck petition Governor Porter to remove a group of Ojibwe from their land. Also, the citizens request to be compensated for their losses.
"Chippewa Chiefs Request Government Sanction." October 18, 1831. Vol. 37, (1910): 229-230.
Chiefs of the Sault Ste. Marie Ojibwe want the President to sanction their decision to give a portion of their land to the Ojibwe of Grape Island in Lake Ontario. Also, the chiefs ask for funds to help them become agriculturalists.
Little, Henry. "A History of the Black Hawk War of 1832." Vol. 5, (1884): 152-178.
Explains the Indian participation in the war. Also, Little's essay gives physical descriptions of Indian leaders like Chief Noonday as well as explanations of the alliances between different nations.
Buckner, E. "A Brief History of the War with the Sac and Fox Indians in Illinois and Michigan, in 1832, with Twenty-One Letters and Orders." Vol. 12, (1888): 424-436.
The title is self-explanatory.
"The Black Hawk War." Vol. 31, (1902): 313-471.
A history of the Black Hawk War of 1832. Composed of the papers of General J. R. Williamson and a few newspaper articles
Gosa and L. Slater. "Complaint of Grand River Indians to Gov. Porter." February 1, 1833. Vol. 37, (1910): 256-257.
Includes a first-person narrative from Gosa, who was beaten by several whites near Grand Rapids, asking for government protection.
Tremble, B. "Shiawassee Chiefs Refuse to Have their Lands Ploughed. Saginaw, May 21, 1833." Vol. 37, (1910): 262-263.
The title is self-explanatory.
"Complaint of Indians at Grand Rapids to Gov. Porter. May 17, 1833." Vol. 37, (1910): 260-261.
Indians, including Gosa, again petition Porter for government protection against Louis Campeau, a local trader.
"Journal of a Council Held at Green Bay, Michigan Territory, by George B. Porter, Commissioner on the Part of the United States, with the Menomonee Nation of Indians, 1833." Vol. 37, (1910): 263-277.
Discusses treaties, alcohol, and general relations with the United States.
General Relations with the British
This
section is comprised mostly of letters, speeches, and memorandums of British officials such as Henry Bouquet, General Robert McKee, Robert McDonnall, and Arent de Peyster. For specific information concerning Indian relations with various governments
during the time periods of the American Revolution, Battle of Fallen Timbers, or War of 1812, see the sections that bear those titles.
Entries are listed chronologically.
Donald Campbell to Henry Bouquet. June 1, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 70-71.
Complaining about Indians traveling to Niagra for rum and not returning with any trade goods.
Alvord, Clarence Walworth. "The Genesis of the Proclamation of 1763." Vol. 36, (1908): 20-52.
History and analysis of the Proclamation which restricted white settlement in the west. Includes description of relations with the Indians.
King George. "A Proclamation." October 7, 1763. Vol. 36, (1908): 14-19.
Text of the Proclamation of 1763 restricting white settlement west of the Appalachians.
De Peyster, Arent S. "Letters and Speeches of Indian Affairs." 1781. Vol. 13, (1889): 41-47.
Major De Peyster and other British officials discuss various matter with the Huron, Delaware, Kooshaking, and Moravian representatives.
De Peyster. "Chippewa Land Allotments." May 13, 1782. Vol. 13, (1889): 46.
A letter to General Haldimand explaining that the Detroit Ojibwe have consented to allow white settlers to cultivate land on the Huron River.
Johnson, John. "Instructions for the Officer Commanding the Indian Department at Detroit, 1783." Vol. 13, (1889): 72.
"Lord Dorchester's Instructions to Sir John Johnson for Good Government of the Indian Department." 1787. Vol. 23, (1893): 627-632.
Instructions on such matters as etiquitte, trade, and purchase of land.
"Court of Inquiry." June 24, 1788. Vol. 11, (1888): 514-619.
Transcripts of a British court of inquiry which was convened at Michilimackinac to investigate the conduct of persons employed by the Indian Department.
"Court of Inquiry." 1788. Vol. 13, (1889): 86-89.
Notes of the court that was established by the British government to investigate wrongdoings by persons employed by the Indian Department.
John Butler to Joseph Chew. April 27, 1794. Vol. 20, (1892): 342-343.
Discusses possibility of war with the US and British assurances to the Indians that the British will not abandon them.
Chew to Thomas Coffin. January 5, 1795. Vol. 20, (1892): 387-389.
Discusses purchase of land from Native Americans, the ban on the sale of rum to them, and Sir William Johnson's relations with them.
Doyle, William. "Copy of a Commission by Major Doyle to Keehwitamigistcaw." 1796. Vol. 12, (1888): 217.
Doyle appoints Keehwitamigistcaw a chief of the Ojibwe Indians for his defense of English traders at Saulte Ste. Marie.
Prevost, George. "Instructions for the Good Government of the Indian Department." May 1, 1812. Vol. 25, (1894): 295-304.
Advice to the new Superintendant of Indian Affairs on such things as presents, ceremonies, councils, and trade.
Bulger, Dickson. "Court of Inquiry." 1814. Vol. 15, (1889): 669-674.
Court established at Green Bay to investigate losses experienced by Indians.
Lieut. Gen. Drummond to George Prevost. February 8, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 47
Suggests route by which the Lake Ontario Indians can be moved to territory along the Mississippi River, fears they will think the English are trying to get out of giving them gifts.
Bulger to Robert McDonall. March 15, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 65-66.
Informs McDonall that Indians will arrive at Green Bay soon, and that they need a blacksmith to repair their weapons.
William Caldwell to William Claus. June 15, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 133-134.
Letter concerning whether Ojibwe should be allowed to remain at the Thames River to plant corn.
McDonall to Sir George Murray. June 24, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 136-138.
McDonall reports that Americans are violating the Treaty of Ghent to cut the British off from their Indian allies. He is worried that the Indians might think the British are abandoning them.
R. James to Major General F. P. Robinson. July 16, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 173-176.
Commander of Fort Sandwich describes relations with the Indians at Burlington, Amherstburg, Sandwich, and Delaware. Letter refers to Ojibwe, Sauks, and Shawnee. Also reports of Indians crossing "the river" to hunt, apparently in US territory.
McDonall to Major Morgan. August 3, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 198-199.
Worried that Americans will think Sauk attacks on the US were prompted by the British.
McDonall to Fredrick Robinson. August 19, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 219-221.
Worried about US plans to erect a string of forts in violation of the Treaty of Ghent which will cut the British off from their western allies.
James, Reginald. "Proceedings of a Court of Inquiry." August 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 208-213.
Inquiry into depredations of Indians against Americans around Detroit to see if British officers were responsible for them. Predictably, the court decides that they were not.
James to Robinson. September 6, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 244-245.
James comments on William Henry Harrison's meeting with Ontario Indians at Detroit, and says that Harrison failed to convince them to sell their lands or that the US had actually defeated Britain during the War of 1812.
Murray, Pat. "From Mr. Murray. Unaddressed." September 15, 1815. Vol. 12, (1888): 40.
Murray relates a rumor that the Ojibwe were planning to attack the English at Detroit.
McDonall to Frederick Robinson. 2 items. September 23-24, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 287-290.
Refers to Sauk attacks under Black Hawk against the US. The US wants to build forts in violation of the terms of the Treaty of Ghent and they charge that the British have prompted the Indian attacks. Also expresses the suspicion that US agents are cheating Indians of their presents with whiskey.
McDonall. "Report from Court of Inquiry." October 6-10, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 290-302.
Court deciding if the British ordered the attacks by Black Hawk. The British decide that, since the attack took place two days after the peace was announced and that they attempted to convince the Sauks not to attack, in addition to the fact that the Indians did not yet know of the peace treaty, the British were not culpable.
McDonall to Major Foster. October 10, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 325-327.
McDonall is again worried that US plans to build forts in the Great Lakes region in violation of the Treaty of Ghent will lead to war with the Indians.
McDonall to Foster. October 26, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 367.
Concerning the ownership of Drummond Island, relations with the Ojibwe, and the protection of the Western Indians against the US.
McDonall to Chambers. November 5, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 380-383.
More information regarding the reaction of the Indians to the Treaty of Ghent, and uncertainty over whether war will break out again between the British and the US.
"Indian Department Orders." November 15-December 30, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 391-395.
Orders regarding provisions and requisitions at Drummond Island. Mentions Odawa named Winnebeeway and an interpreter named Assenach.
McDonall to Military Secretary. June 17, 1816. Vol. 16, (1890): 463-466.
Fears that reduction in Drummond Island forces and the influx of Indians from the West, along with US plans to build forts, will result in hostilities. Mentions problems with the Winnebagoes specifically.
McDonell to ?. June 19, 1816. Vol. 16, (1890): 468-469.
A large group of Sioux are converging at Drummond Island. La Feuille and Little Corbean are their chiefs. Letter discusses a western Indian confederacy against the Americans.
"Indian Pension List." February 1, 1821. Vol. 23, (1893): 109.
Lists names and dates for Iroquois who receive pensions from the British.
"Address of Port Sarnia Indians to the Queen, 1841." Vol. 12, (1888): 455-457.
Ojibwe Indians of Canada's St. Clair reservation ask the British Queen to resolve their annuity issues with the Canadian government.
Bates, William R. "The Development of Flint." Vol. 35, (1907): 359-387.
Discusses Indian names, the Ojibwe's conflict with the Sauks and alliance with the British.
General Relations with the French
This
section is comprised mostly of letters, speeches, and memorandums of French officials such as Cadillac, Vaudreuil, Raudot, as well as speeches made by Native American leaders to the French during council meetings. For the most part, this section concerns
the interactions that the French had with Native Americans (specifically Odawa and Miami) residing in the areas around Detroit.
General Histories
Burton, C. M. "Fort Pontchartrain Du Detroit." Vol. 29, : 240-317.
This account of the French tenure at Detroit includes many aspects of French-Indian relations. Pages 244-248 deal with the Iroquois alliance with English. Pages 264-267 discuss trade with the Indians. Pages 283-295 deal with a war between the Odawa and the Maimis. Finally, pages 295-303 deal with general issues such as alcohol and trade.
Crossman, D. L. "Early French Occupation of Michigan." Vol. 14, (1890): 651-668.
Begins with a lengthy discussion of the first European explorers to visit the Americas, including an argument that states the Irish Bishop, St. Joseph, brought civilization to the Aztecs in the sixth century. Crossman then proceeds to discuss issues more relevant to Michigan's Indians: early visits to Europe, first experiences with missionaries, first execution by a European court (1683), involvement in fur trade, political / military relations with England and France, and a detailed account of Pontiac's conspiracy.
Primary Documents
Entries are listed chronologically.
Cadillac to Unknown. October 18, 1700. Vol. 33, : 96-101.
This letter discusses the founding of Detroit and its importance to relations with Indians.
Jean Mermet to Cadillac. April 19, 1702. Vol. 33, : 118-119.
C. H. Veneau to Cadillac. June 4, 1702. Vol. 33, : 123-124.
J. Marest to Cadillac. July 23, 1702. Vol. 33, : 126-129.
Letters of protest from the Jesuits to Cadillac. This letter expresses their anger about Quarante Sous, a Miami chief and his group's hunting increase. These also mention the Jesuits invitation to the Maimi to settle near Detroit.
Cadillac to Unknown. September 25, 1702. Vol. 33, : 133-151.
This letter discusses advantages of Fort Detroit and its impact on Indians, specifically in preventing the negative influence of traders, associated with drinking alcohol and immorality).
Joseph Marset to Cadillac. May 12, 1703. Vol. 33, : 159-160.
Fifteenth letter of the Jesuits' sent to Cadillac. This one pertains to the relocation of Mackinac Indians to Detroit.
Cadillac to Unknown. August 31, 1703. Vol. 33, : 161-181.
A report on the conditions at Detroit, including discussions regarding relocation of the Michilimackinac Indians to Detroit (162-164) and the Hurons' desire to ally with the French (165-166).
"Memorandum of M. De la Mothe Cadillac Concerning the Establishment of Detroit." Novemeber 19, 1704. Vol. 33, : 198-241.
In a question and answer format, Cadillac answers charges of the Jesuits' regarding trade with Indians, brandy, attacks of Miami on other tribes, etc.
Marset to Vaudreuil. August 14, 1706. Vol. 33, : 262-269.
Letter regarding the hostilities between the Odawas and the Miamis, and Cadillac's involvement.
Cadillac to Vaudreuil. August 27, 1706. Vol. 33, : 272-285.
Discusses the war between the Maimi and the Odawa, including the Odawa's attack on Detroit.
"Talk of Marquis De Vaudreuil with the Sonnontouans." September 4, 1706. Vol. 33, : 285-288.
Attempting to discover why the Odawa attacked the Maimi at Detroit.
"Speech of Miscouaky, Chief of the Outaouas, to Marquis De Vaudreuil." September 26, 1706. Vol. 33, : 288-294.
Explains that the Odawa attacked the Miami because they were going to attack Odawa villages, that the Odawa Chief Le Pesant proposed the attack and on one could change his mind, and that the French were killed accidentally. Also, they still want to fight the Huron and Miami.
"Replies of m. De Vaudreuil to Miscopuaky, Chief of the Outaouas." November 4, 1706. Vol. 33, : 294-296.
Vaudreuil orders the Odawa not to go to war against Miami and Huron. He also states his desire for the Odawa to take responsibility of the death of the Frenchmen who were killed at Detroit and denies them presents and supplies until spring.
"Words of the Outauois, on the 18th of June with the Answers." June 18, 1707. Vol. 33, : 319-325.
Jean Le Blanc brought prisoners to make amends for the killing of a priest at Detroit, but Vaudreuil demands the head of Le Pesant, who ordered the attack.
"Words of the Outauois, on the 21st of June with the Answers." June 21, 1707. Vol. 33, : 324-326.
Le Blanc says he can't deliver Le Pesant's head because he is allied with many tribes; Vaudreuil says Le Blanc must agree not to obey Le Pesant anymore and must make peace with the Miami and French at Detroit.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. July 24, 1707. Vol. 33, : 328-331.
Concerns Le Blanc's attempts to make reparations for death of Frenchmen at Detroit. He's sincere in offering himself to Cadillac in place of Le Pesant in order to make peace.
"Council Held at Detroit on the 6th of August." August 6, 1707. Vol. 33, : 331-336.
Council between Cadillac and the Odawa to resolve the Odawa and Miami hostilities. Cadillac demands Le Pesant, Miami and Huron demand vengeance, and Cadillac gives them Odawa slaves.
"Words of the Ottawa to Cadillac." September 24, 1707. Vol. 33, : 346-350.
The Odawa deliver Le Pesant and beg for his life. He escapes and Cadillac pardons him and grants peace and presents to the Odawa. (Le Pesant is an 80-year-old man whose name means "The Heavy One.")
"Speeches of Three Indians from Michilimackinac." October 7, 1707. Vol. 33, : 362-365.
The Michigan Indians who came to Detroit during the Le Pesant episode are afraid that Le Pesant will seek revenge against the Odawa who captured him.
"Observations of the Marquis de Vaudreuil on the Letter from De La Mothe." n.d. (October 1707?) Vol. 33, : 354-361.
Accuses Cadillac of letting Le Pesant escape but states that it might have been the best course of action.
Sr. d'Aigremont to Unknown. November 14, 1708. Vol. 33, : 424-452.
Another account of the attack on Detroit by the Odawa and Cadillac's handling of the crisis.
"Memorandum by Marquis de Vaudreuil and Raudot, on the other Proposal of the Sr. De La Mothe to Establish Four Companies of savages at Detroit." November 13, 1708. Vol. 33, : 399-400.
Cadillac wants to use Indians as soldiers. Vaudreuil and Raudot disagree and state their contention that Indian soldiers would be a danger to the French.
Vaudreuil and Raudot to Unknown. November 14, 1708. Vol. 33, : 401-424.
Difficulties in keeping Indinas loyal to France; Odawa attack on Detroit in 1706; Huron and Miami plotted the murder of Cadillac and killed three Frenchmen; Cadillac fails in attack on the Odawa and makes peace; French and Indian attack on a British town.
"Memorandum to Serve as Instructions from the Marquis de Vaudreuil to the Officers and Voyagers Dispatched to Bring Down to Montreal the Savages of the Upper Country." March 10, 1711. Vol. 33, : 497-502.
Attempt to demonstrate the strength of France's Indian allies to the Iroquois.
Dubuisson to Vaudreuil. June 15, 1712. Vol. 33, : 537-552.
This letter discusses war between the French and the British; destruction of Maskoutin and Outagamis villages; the Odawa Chief Saginaw; conflict of the Huron, Miami, Odawa groups of Indians against the Fox, Mascoutin, Outagamis, Iroquois; the Illinois; Missouri and Osages become French allies; and various councils, battles, sieges, etc.
Marest to Vaudreuil. July 2, 1712. Vol. 33, : 557-559.
Indian Chief Koutaouiliboe is angry with the French because Detroit makes Michilimackinac less important.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. September 6, 1712. Vol. 33, : 559-567.
Vaudreuil wants a missionary to go to Michilimackinac; more intrigue concerning Odawa, Sauk, Fox, Kickapoo, Outagamis, and Maskoutins.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. October 15, 1712. Vol. 33, : 569-571.
Fox Indians attempt to attack Detroit. Dubuisson and allied Indians killed 1000 of them.
Walker, C. I. "Early Detroit." Vol. 8, (1886): 415-44.
Includes information on Potawatomi , Fox, Iroquois, Miami, Ojibwe, and Huron Indians. Also contains a detailed account of an attempt by the Foxes to destroy the fort in 1712.
"War Against the Fox Indians and Amnesty to the Coureurs de Bois." April 28, 1816. Vol. 33, : 573-574.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. October 14, 1716. Vol. 33, : 576-579.
"Remarks on the War with the Fox Indians." n.d. (1716?) Vol. 33, : 579-582.
French war against Fox for murders of Frenchmen; calling coureurs in to serve as soldiers.
Vaudreuil to Unknown. October 12, 1717. Vol. 33, : 590-593.
New head of Detroit, Tonty, stopped Odawa from going to the English at Orange. Odawa and Potawatomi were angry about high prices and the lack of brandy at Detroit. Consequently, he had to agree to lower prices and get brandy. Also, the Odawa killed an Iroquois man and his Miami bride.
Vaudreuil to Duke of Orleans. October 12, 1717. Vol. 33, : 588-590.
De Louvigny sent to Fox to make aure that they were co-operating with the terms of peace. Smallpox edidemic among the Fox halts his efforts. The account mentions chiefs Pemoussa, Michiouaouigan, and Okimaouasen.
Vaudreuil and Began to Unknown. November 8, 1718. Vol. 33, : 595-598.
Tonty (Head of Detroit) prevents Indians from going to British and prevents a war between the Miami and the Odawa.
"Reports on American Colonies." September 8, 1721. Vol. 19, : 11-13.
Describes the importance of maintaining good relations with the Indians via annual presents, trade, treaties between tribes, and sending chiefs to Europe.
"Memorandum by the King." December 19, 1721. Vol. 33, : 704-705.
King orders traders not to give brandy to the Indians.
"The Hurons ask for Free Trade at Detroit." August 9, 1727. Vol. 34, (1905): 49-51.
The Hurons request that a system of free trade be reinstated at Detroit. Also, they ask for a new commandant.
Beaucharnois. "Beaucharnois asks that Tonty be Recalled." September 25, 1727. Vol. 34, (1905): 51-53.
This letter explains the importance of the Hurons to the settlement at Detroit and recommends that measures be taken to ensure their happiness.
Beaucharnois. "Boisheberts's Report on the Indian Trouble." Canada, July 24, 1733. Vol. 34, (1905): 108-109.
Lists casualties from and of Indian nations. Also mentions the effects of smallpox.
"War Against the Fox Indians." 1735. Vol. 34, (1905): 122-128.
Copy of the account of the journey of Sr. de Noyelle, commanding the war party against the Sauk and Fox Indians, 1735.
Woodward, A. B. "Letter from Judge Woodward. Un-addressed." Vol. 12, (1888): 508-511.
In the letter dated March 8, 1808, River Raisen, Woodward describes meetings that had recently taken place between Indian chiefs and "their French Father" or "Bonaparte."
Native American Missions and Missionaries
A collection of essays and biographies, this section deals with the Christian missionaries and the Native Americans who they came into contact with in Michigan. The majority of this section concerns the activities of missionaries
(Jesuits, Moravians, etc.) who lived and worked in the Detroit, Mackinac, and Grand Rapids areas.
Entries are listed alphabetically.
Beauharnois, D'aigremont. "A Jesuit Missionary is Sent to the Detroit Hurons." Vol. 34, (1905): 63-64.
October, 1728. Jesuit missionary sent to the Huron Indians at Detroit, also explains the fears of other Indian groups assisting the Fox Indians.
Bringham, A. "The Early Mission at Sault Ste. Marie." Vol. 28, (1897): 520-524.
Bringham, a missionary, provides a history of his mission beginning in 1828. He describes the Indian's religious beliefs, medicine, drinking habits, etc.
Burton, C. M. "The Moravians at Detroit." Vol. 30, (1906): 51-63.
A history of the Detroit area Moravians; specifically their dealings with the Indians and British and the massacre at Moravian Town in 1782.
Bush, Mrs. "The Moravians in Michigan." Vol. 28, (1897): 133-137.
A history of the Moravians which includes accounts of the 1781 massacre by the British, the kidnapping of a white girl by Indians, and the Moravian Indians at a Huron settlement.
Coolidge, Orville W. "Address at the dedication of the Boulder Marking the site of Fort St. Joseph." Vol. 39, (1915): 283-291.
Includes discussion of white missionaries' work with Indians, especially Chief Pokagon, whose complete written request for a missionary in 1831 is included.
Day, J. E. "The Moravians in Michigan." Vol. 30, (1906): 44-51.
A history of the Moravians that includes their missionary work among the Indians at Detroit and the 1782 massacre at Moravian Town.
Girardin, J. A. "Life and Times of Rev. Gabriel Richard." Vol. 1, (1900): 493.
This essay contains a dialogue that took place in July of 1830 in which Chief Pokagon of the Potawatomi requested from Father Richard a resident missionary for his people.
Goss, Dwight. "The Indians of the Grand River Valley." Vol. 30, (1906): 172-190.
Discusses the settlement of Michigan by the People of the Three Fires, i.e. the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Also provides information relating to traders (including Langlade), missions, sketches of various Indian villages and chiefs, Indian names of towns and rivers, 1836 and 1855 treaties, annuities, social customs, houses, and commentary on the Indians' general character.
Humphrey, James W. "The Selkirk Reservation." Vol. 32, (1903): 381-383.
Allegan County bands of Odawa and Ojibwe Indians. Selkirk was sent in 1838 as a missionary, Sagamaw was the group's leader. This document is a typically racist account of "inferior" Indians.
Lewis-Hoyt, Mary M. "Life of Leonard Slater: Pioneer Preacher and Missionary." Vol. 35, (1907): 142-155.
Depicts slater's contacts with Michigan Indians, especially near Grand Rapids. Specifically mentions chiefs Noonday, Pokagon, Topinabee, and Megisoneenee.
"Montreal Papers: trouble with the Five Nations of the Iroquois." March 23, 1682. Vol. 34, (1905): 277-285.
Extracts from the opinions given at a conference held by Reverend Jesuit fathers, on the subject of news that came from the Iroquois.
O'Brien, Frank A. "Father Frank Pierz." Vol. 39, (1915): 225-232.
A biography of Father Pierz, a missionary who worked with Michigan's Indians in the mid 19th century.
O'Brien, F. A. "Lady Antoinette Von Hoeffern." Vol. 39, (1915): 221-224.
A biography of A. Von Hoeffern, an Austrian missionary who worked with Indians in the Lake Superior region in the late 1830's.
Veruyst, Chrysostom. "Life and labors of Bishop Baraga." Vol. 36, (1908): 534-547.
A biography of an Austrian bishop (1797-1868) who ministered to the Odawa of Harbor Springs and Grand Rapids (1830- ). Baraga printed an Odawa prayer book in 1832 and he moved Lake superior at la Pointe in 1834 then to L'Anse in 1845.
Walker, C. I. "Father Marquette and the Early Jesuits of Michigan." Vol. 8, (1886): 368-392.
Recounts the Jesuits' experiences in Michigan, especially with the Indians. Explains that the Hurons were the first in the region to accept Christianity.
Williams, Meade C. "The Old Mission Church of Mackinac Island." Vol. 38, (1912): 187-196.
This essay is a short history of protestant missions to the Indians; Indian schools on Mackinac; history of the Mackinac mission.
Wilson, Etta Smith. "Life and work to the Late rev. George N. Smith, a Pioneer Missionary." Vol. 30, (1906): 190-212.
Pages 198-207 describe the Odawa and Ojibwe colony at Allegan, 1838-1839. Also includes is a discussion of the colony's move to Holland in 1839 and its being called Old Wing Mission; troubles with the Dutch at Holland after 1847; and the move to Leelenaw in 1848.
Native American Presents and Gift Giving
Entries are listed chronologically.
"List of Prices for Indian Goods." February 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 59-60.
Lists prices for trade goods in quantities of "bucks" - whether this term is used to denote money or deer is unclear.
De Peyster, Arent. "List of Indian Licenses Granted at Quebec for Michilimackinac and Places Beyond from the 13th day of April to the 4th day of June, 1778. Accounting Where the Arms and Ammunition Distend After it Arives at the post of Michilimackinac." Vol. 9, (1886): 650.
"List of Goods Given in a Present to the Ottawas of arbecroche and Kishkacon Equally Divided in the Fall of 1778." Vol. 9, (1886): 655.
Arent De Peyster to Frederick Haldimand. June 8, 1780. Vol. 10, (1888): 399-400.
Notes the Indians' requests for rum and the usefulness of the gift-giving system.
"Inventory of Merchandise for Indian Presents Remaining in the King's Store, Detroit the 17th July 1781." Vol. 10, (1888): 496
Campbell, John. "Invoice of Goods for Presents to Indians." August 31, 1781. Vol. 19, (1891): 568-661.
Sent to Lieutenant Governor Sinclair at Michilimackinac.
De Peyster. "Estimate of Merchandise Wanted for Indian Presents at Detroit to 20th August 1782." Vol. 10, (1888): 632-633.
"Lt. Gov. Sinclair's Estimate of Goods Needed for Indians." September 1, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 51-54.
Gifts at Detroit.
De Peyster. "Estimate of Merchandise." August 21, 1782 through August 20, 1783. Vol. 11, (1888): 382-383.
Estimate of merchandise wanted by Major De Peyster, Commander of Detroit and its dependencies, for Indian presents.
Bleakley, Josiah. "Return of Indian Presents." November 7, 1782 through April 5, 1783. Vol. 11, (1888): 356-357.
Allen Maclean to Haldimand." December 24, 1782. Vol. 20, (1892): 84-86.
Explains some difficulty in delivering presents due to the weather.
Bleakley, Josiah. "Return of Indian Presents Issued at the Post of Michilimackinac by Order of Captain Daniel Robertson, 1783." Vol. 13, (1889): 73-74.
De Peyster. "Merchandise Necessary for Indians at Detroit." n.d. (1794?) Vol. 20, (1892): 271.
List of provisions needed as gifts for "savages" near Detroit.
McKee, Alexander. "Estimate of the Deficiency in the Store of the Indian Department at Michilimackinac According to captain Doyle's return of the Proceedings of a Board of Survey Held there 19 January 1793." Vol. 12, (1888): 41.
McKee. "Provisions Ordered to Detroit for Indians." February 21, 1793. Vol. 20, (1892): 313.
Items sent to Sandusky for the following spring.
La Mothe, Guill'm. "General Return of Indian Presents Remaining in, Received into and Issued from His majesty's Store at Michilimackinac between 25th June and 24th December 1793 by Guill'm La Mothe Interpreter and Store Keeper at this Post." Vol. 12, (1888): 96-97.
Doyle, William. "Requests for Indian Presents." Vol. 12, (1888): 82-84.
Doyle sends a detailed request of the supplies he would like to have at Fort Michilimackinac for Indian gifts in 1794. He also notes an upcoming peace conference, the importance of tobacco, and the good conduct of the Indians engaged in trade.
Duggan, Thomas. "Complaints of Indians." Detroit, 16 April 1794. Vol. 12, (1888): 110-111.
Duggan argues that the Indians of the Seven Nations of Canada's complaints about the supplies issued to them are "quite groundless."
"Return of Presents Remaining in the Indian Store." Detroit, 6 October 1794. Vol. 12, (1888): 146-147.
Detailed list of goods to be issues as presents for Indians.
"Indian Presents, Michilimackinac, 1794-1795." Vol. 12, (1888): 156-159.
Series of letters and returns of British officers at Fort Michilimackinac regarding the numbers and distribution of Indian presents.
"Requisition for and Survey of Indian Supplies." 1795. Vol. 12, (1888): 174-176.
Requisition for provisions and Rum for Indians at Detroit. Also, list of Michilimackinac's Indian stores.
"Statement of Equipments Commonly Given to Indians." Vol. 12, (1888): 264-266.
Explains how gifts are to be distributed to Indians. Quantity and quality of goods given to an Indian were based on his age, status, and leadership classifications.
"Account of Issues from Indian Stores." 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 495-497.
Lees, John. "Deficiencies and Damage on Indian Stores." October 17, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 455.
James Molloy to John Lees. September 28, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 476-477.
"Certificate of James Molloy Relative to Damaged Goods." October 10, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 480-481.
"Statement of James Molloy Relative to Stolen Indian Goods." October 10, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 481-482.
John Lees to James Green. October 17, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 483-487.
"Report of Atty. General T. Sewell to Robert Prescott." December 5, 1796. Vol. 20, (1892): 492-493.
Itemized list of damaged goods sent from La Chine to Detroit and Michilimackinac, and the resulting investigation as to whether the goods were damaged during a robbery.
Mcknee, T. "Requisitions for Stores Wanting to Complete the Supply of Presents for the Different Indians Resorting at the Post of St. Joseph for the Year 1796." March 24, 1798. Vol. 20, (1892): 596-598.
Elliot, M. "Goods Recommended to be Given to the Indians." September 20, 1797. Vol. 20, (1892): 545-547.
Gifts to Massassaguas, Potawatomi , Odawa, Muncie, and Ojibwe.
"Requisition for Goods for Indian Presents for 1800 and 1801." October 2, 1798. Vol. 20, (1892): 660-663.
"Indian Presents and Stores." 1798-1799. Vol. 12, (1888): 273-294.
Supply of presents, stores, and rum for Amherstburg and St. Joseph.
Hull to Dearborn. May 15, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 119-122.
Hull is providing glass for windows, various farming implements, repairing metal works for the Ojibwe, Odawa, Potawatomi , Wiyandot, Shawnee, Delaware, and Muncie Indians, who are pleased that the terms of the Treaty of Greenville are being upheld.
Hull to Dearborn. July 15, 1807. Vol. 40, (1929): 155-157.
Hull defends his policy of giving gifts to the Indians, but offers to change.
"Invoices of Indian Goods, 1809, and Receipt for the Same." April 24, 1809. Vol. 36, (1908): 358-362.
Contents of Sundry boxes and kegs and a receipt signed with pictographs of chiefs of different tribes, including Walk In the Water, a Wyandot chief.
"Requisition for Indian Presents in Case of War with the United States." n.d. (1809?) Vol. 23, (1893): 70-72.
Itemized list of goods.
"Account of Sundries del'd by Robert Dickson and Co. to the Sioux Follesavonies Winebagoes - Indians at the Praire du Cheen, July 1812." Vol. 15, (1889): 91-92.
Dickson, Robert. "Statement of Expenses." Montreal, December 3, 1812. Vol. 15, (1889): 193-195.
Dickson provides the British government with a list of expenses he incurred while persuading Indian nations not to ally with the Americans.
Dickson, Robert. "Letter to the Commander in Chief of British Forces, Quebec, Dec. 23rd 1812." Vol. 15, (1889): 208-209.
Dickson lists the items and actions that will be necessary to secure the loyalty of various Indian nations.
"Indian Presents Shipped to Michilimackinac: 9 July and 10 Sept. 1814." Vol. 15, (1889): 606-608, 613-616.
Sheaffe, R. H. "Returns of Indian Gifts and Instruction Regarding their Dispersal, Sept. 1814." Vol. 15, (1889): 644-651.
"Invoice of Indian Presents, Michilimackinac 29 Oct. 1814." Vol. 15, (1889): 654-656.
"Indian Stores Required for Presents to Indians who Resort to the Post of Michilimackinac and its Dependances for the Year 1816." Jan. 2, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 36-37.
McDonall, Robert. "Indian Stores Required for Presents for the Western Indians for the Year 1815." Jan. 3, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 33-35.
James Finlay to Secretary Freer. Jan. 13, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 40.
This letter concerns the stores requested by McDonell, asks if anything else is needed, and suggests location of depots, etc.
Robert Dickson to Lieut. Gen. Drummond. Jan. 17, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 41-42.
Dickson writes from Green Bay, explaining that the amount of goods to be used as presents is not sufficient due to the great demand for supplies and the high quantity of goods than had been damaged or ruined. He suggests an attack on St. Louis to stop the Americans from inciting a revolt of Indians in Missouri.
McDonell. "Stationary required for the Indian Department of western nations for the Year 1815." Jan. 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 35.
Lieut. Gen. Drummond to George Prevost. February 8, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 47.
Suggests route by which the Lake Ontario Indians can be moved to territory along the Mississippi River, fears they will think the English are trying to get out of giving them gifts.
Robert McDonell to A. Bulger. February 16 and 18, 1815. Vol. 23, (1893): 471-478.
McDonell is upset by the scarcity of presents for Indians. He states that this situation cannot be remedied; the Indians will not trust the British any longer because of the big promises that have not been fulfilled.
George Crooleshonk to Lt. Col. Foster. July 7, 1815. Vol. 16, (1890): 155-156.
Details return of Indian gifts meant for Fort Michilimackinac on the schooner Enterprise, includes list of items.
Askin, John. "From Mr. Askin." 1815? Vol. 16, (1890) 32-33.
Letter to an unknown person advising that Mr. Dickson has been appropriating more than his share of supplies for the Western Indians, causing jealously among the Odawa and Chippewa.
John Askin to William Claus. Jan.15, 1816. Vol. 16, (1890): 416-421.
Discusses interpreters, the purchase of Drummond Island from the Ojibwe, and gift-giving to Indians.
Thomas Howard to Lt. Col. Foster. July 26, 1818. Vol. 16, (1890): 621-623.
Indians of Drummond are angry because they are not receiving their presents due to detention of shipment by the Americans.
Thomas Trew to William Robertson. August 17, 1818. Vol. 16, (1890): 633-634.
William Robertson to Major Bowles. October 15, 1818. Vol. 16, (1890): 642.
Thomas Trew to Robertson. n.d. Vol. 16, (1890): 644.
Robertson to Trew. October 17 and 18, 1818. Vol. 16, (1890): 645.
Discusses the issue of whether or not wives of interpreters and "women who co-habitat with Europeans" should receive gifts.
"Memorial of Amable Chevalier." October 3, 1821. Vol. 23, (1893): 113-115.
"Goods Referred to the Foregoing Memorial." n.d. Vol. 23, (1893): 113-115.
Chevalier, chief of Algonquins, is asking the Governor of Canada for a list of goods in exchange for service to the British.
"Invoice of Goods and Merchandise Taken by John A. Drew in his Trade with the Indians at Grand River - December 12 - 1834." Vol. 37, (1910): 309-311.
Robinson, Seth T. "Early Indian Orders." Vol. 35, (1907): 695-696.
These 1859 letters from Robinson to C. Mears and John Sedam request that they distribute 2000 feet of lumber to three Indians and send the charges for the lumber to the Indian Department.
Pontiac's Conspiracy
Primary documents such as the reports of military commanders and the speeches delivered by Native Americas, as well as secondary sources describe the events leading up to the revolt, the capture of Fort Michilimackinac, the siege of Detroit, and the aftermath.
General Histories
Burton, Clarence M. "Amusements in Detroit in Colonial days." Vol. 38, (1912): 324-342.
Discusses Indian weapons, sieges of Detroit, Lacrosse, and Indian goods such as trumpets, drums, and beads. Also mentions the British prohibition against selling brandy to Indians and Pontiac's War.
Christian, E. P. "Historical Associations Connected with Wyandotte and Vicinity." Vol. 13, (1889): 308-324.
Contains a history of Pontiac's rebellion and of the assignments given to other tribes. Example: the destruction of Michilimackinac "allotted to the Ojibways."
"Conspiracy of Pontiac and the Seige of Detroit." Vol. 8, (1886): 340-364.
Five eyewitness accounts by settlers of Pontiac's siege of Detroit.
Headley, J. T. "Pontiac; or the Siege of Detroit." Vol. 21, (1892): 613-639.
This biography of Pontiac contains a lengthy description of the siege of Detroit.
Kelton, Dwight H. "Mackinac County. County of Mackinac--from the Annals of Fort Mackinac." Vol. 6, (1884): 343-357.
Provides a description of the Indian ball game, Bag-gab-i-way, which was used by the Indians under Pontiac to distract the soldiers at Fort Michilimackinac during Pontiac's rebellion.
McKenney, T. L. "The Indian Chief Pontiac, and the Seige of Detroit." Vol. 6, (1884): 504-512.
This essay includes an interesting account of how an Indian woman may have revealed Pontiac's plans of attack to Major Gladwin of Fort Detroit.
Miller, Albert. "An Incident in the Capture of Mackinaw." Vol. 13, (1889): 499-501.
Describes the capture of the fort, including how a ball game was used to gain entry. Also, the rescue of Captain Etherington.
Moore, Charles. "The Gladwin Manuscripts." Vol. 27, (1896): 605-680.
Henry Gladwin was commander of Detroit during Pontiac's siege. Pages 612-630 are a history of Gladwin and the siege. Pages 631-680 reprint letters and papers related to the siege.
Osband, Melvin D. "The Michigan Indians." Vol. 29, (1901): 697-709.
This account of the Native Americans of Michigan is deeply rooted in the manifest-destiny perspective of nineteenth-century white Americans. It contains a lengthy essay about civilization and savagery, as well as a discussion of treaties and of Pontiac's Conspiracy.
"The Pontiac Manuscript." Vol. 8, (1886): 266-339.
A detailed account of Pontiac's siege of Detroit, possibly the work of a French priest. Unfinished.
Primary Documents
Entries are listed chronologically.
Donald Campbell to Henry Bouquet. June 16, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 76-77.
Campbell to Bouquet. June 21, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 78-79.
Bouquet to Robert Monckton. June 30, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 81-82.
Bouquet to Campbell. June 30, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 82-84.
Campbell is worried about the Iroquois' attempts to involve the Indians around Detroit in a war against the British. However, the Detroit Indians reassure the British that they had rejected the Iroquois entreaties.
Campbell to Henry Bouquet. July 22, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 94-96.
Bouquet to Robert Monckton. July 24, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 96-97.
Campbell to Bouquet. July 27, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 98-100.
Campbell to Bouquet. July 30, 1761. Vol. 19, (1891): 101.
Various letters concerning the possibility of the Indians around Detroit joining the Iroquois confederacy against the British.
"Indian Speech." March 30, 1763. Vol. 19, (1891): 181-182.
Speech by chief of Miamis at Fort Miami. Concerns wampum belt passed from the Shawnee and Delaware which was originally from the Seneca. The Miami were supposed to rise up and kill the English, but they decided against it and reported the conspiracy instead.
Bouquet Papers. May 30, 1763-February 26, 1765. 60 items. Vol. 19, (1891): 188-295.
S. Ecuyer to Henry Bouquet. May 30, 1763. p. 188.
"Indian Intelligence." June 1, 1763. p. 186-187.
J. Christie to Lieutenant Gordon. June 3, 1763. p. 188-189.
Letter to Henry Bouquet. June 11, 1763. p. 190.
Bouquet to S. Ecuyer. June 14, 1763. p. 191.
George Croghan to Bouquet. June 17, 1763. p. 192-193.
Jeffrey Amherst to Bouquet. June 19, 1763. p. 193-194.
Amherst to Henry Hamilton. June 19, 1763. p. 195.
Bouquet to Amherst. June 23, 1763. p. 195-196.
Amherst to Bouquet. June 23, 1763. p. 196-198.
Amherst to Bouquet. June 25, 1763. p. 198-200.
Bouquet to Amherst. June 25, 1763. p. 200-201.
G. Price to Bouquet. June 26, 1763. p. 201-203.
Amherst to Bouquet. June 29, 1763. p. 203-204.
Amherst to Bouquet. July 2, 1763. p. 204-205.
Henry Gladwin to Bouquet. July 8, 1763. p. 208.
John Christie to Bouquet. July 10, 1763. p. 209-211.
William Johnson to Amherst. July 11, 1763. p. 211-212.
James MacDonald to Bouquet. July 12, 1763. p. 212-219.
Bouquet to Amherst. August 5, 1763. p. 219-220.
Bouquet to Amherst. August 6, 1763. p. 221-222.
Amherst to Bouquet. August 7, 1763. p. 223-224.
Bouquet to Amherst. August 11, 1763. p. 224-226.
Bouquet to Amherst. August 27, 1763. p. 227-228.
Amherst to Lieut. Governor Fanquier. August 29, 1763. p. 228-229.
Amherst to Colonel Stephen. August 31, 1763. p. 229-230.
Bouquet to Amherst. September 7, 1763. p. 230-231.
Amherst to Bouquet. September 25, 1763. p. 233-234.
Amherst to Bouquet. October 3, 1763. p. 237-238.
Bouquet to Amherst. October 24, 1763. p. 238-241.
Bouquet to Amherst. November 11, 1763. p. 241-242.
Thomas Gage to Bouquet. December 22, 1763. p. 244-246.
Bouquet to Gage. December 27, 1763. p. 246-247.
Dedereck Brehm to Bouquet. January 4, 1764. p. 247.
George McDougall to Bouquet. January 8, 1764. p. 248.
Bouquet to Gage. February 11, 1764. p. 249-250.
McDougall to Bouquet. March 24, 1764. p. 250-251.
"Deposition of Gorsham Hicks." April 14, 1764. p. 253-255.
Dedereck Brehm to Bouquet. May 1, 1764. p. 256-257.
Gage to Bouquet. May 14, 1764. p. 257-259.
Bouquet to Johnson. May 31, 1764. p. 259-261.
Bouquet to William Rutherford. July 5, 1764. p. 263-264.
Bouquet to Colonel Stephen. July 5, 1764. p. 264-265.
Bouquet to John Harris. July 19, 1764. p. 267-268.
Gage to Bouquet. August 18, 1764. p. 269-271.
Bouquet to Amherst. August 27, 1764. p. 269-271.
Gage to Bouquet. September 2, 1764. p. 272-273.
Bouquet to Gage. September 5, 1764. p. 273-274.
Bouquet to Bradstreet. September 12, 1764. p. 274.
Gage to Bouquet. September 15, 1764. p. 274-275.
John Reid to Bouquet. September 18, 1764. p. 275-276.
Gage to Bouquet. October 1, 1764. p. 276.
Gage to Bouquet. October 15, 1764. p. 277-278.
Gage to Bouquet. October 21, 1764. p. 278-279.
Bouquet to Gage. November 15, 1764. p. 279-282.
Henry Bouquet. "Orders by Colonel Henry Bouquet." November 29, 1764. p. 282-283.
Bouquet to Gage. November 30, 1764. p. 283-287.
Gage to Bouquet. December 7, 1764. p. 287-289.
Gage to Bouquet. December 20, 1764. p. 289-293.
Gage to Bouquet. February 26, 1765. p. 294-295.
Colonel Henry Bouquet was the British commander at Fort Pitt (Pittsburgh) during Pontiac's failed 1763 siege of Detroit. His papers, reprinted in volume 19 of this resource, contain 59 documents to and from Bouquet pertaining to the British reaction to Pontiac's conspiracy and the eventual peace reached in late 1764.
Prehistory and Archeology
Composed mostly of historical essays, this section includes discussion of the ancient burial mounds, garden beds, grave goods, skeletal remains, and other "relics" of Michigan's pre-European contact Native American cultures.
Entries are listed alphabetically.
Cannon, George H. "Prehistoric Forts in Macomb County." Vol. 38, (1912): 73-78.
Evidence of earth and stone mounds and cultivation. Includes maps, but does not suggest how old the ruins are.
Dustin, Fred. "Saginaw County as a Center of Aboriginal Population." Vol. 34, (1915): 251-260.
Explains the geographical and environmental benefits of Saginaw, information that can be gathered from relics, Ojibwe historical accounts, and legends.
Gillman, Henry. "The Mound Builders in Michigan." Vol. 2, (1880): 40-52.
Discusses ancient mounds, relics, burial items, the construction of tools, and mining processes at Isle Royal in Lake Superior.
Evidence of cultivation, burial mounds, and what resembles a fort on a knoll.
Hubbard, Bela. "Ancient Garden Beds of Michigan." Vol. 2, (1880): 21-35.
This work discusses a class of earthworks "of unknown age and origin" built by early Native Americans in Michigan. Includes eight scale diagrams.
Leach, Morgan. "History of the Grand Traverse Region." Vol. 32, (1903): 14-175.
Discusses mound builders, the migration of the Odawa, and the extermination of a tribe known as the Mushquatas.
"Michigan State Historical Society." Vol. 12, (1888): 316-350.
Discusses some Indian burial relics donated to the Society by Mr. Thomas Palmer.
Osband, Melvin D. "My Recollection of Pioneers and Pioneer Life in Nankin." Vol. 14, (1890): 446.
Briefly discusses a cut piece of wood discovered in 1834 that was believed to have been cut 225 years before and then sealed in an oak tree.
"Prehistoric Bones Here." Vol. 35, (1907): 703-704.
Discusses a large "Indian mound" found in Pentwater county which contained many animal bones, such as buffalo and probably mastodon.
Reeder, John T. "Evidences of Prehistoric Man on Lake Superior." Vol. 30, (1906): 110-118.
Discusses ancient copper mines near Lake Superior. Contains his theory of an "ancient race of man" who mined the area 700-800 years earlier in a seasonal migratory pattern, since there was no evidence of towns or burial sites.
Smith, Harlan. "The Antiquities of Michigan, Their Value and Impending Loss." Vol. 31, (1902): 238-252.
Cites examples of earthworks and other archaeological finds in Michigan. Argues for their importance and preservation.
Smith, Samuel. "Pre-historic and Modern Copper Mines of Lake Superior." Vol. 39, (1915): 137-151.
Describes technology of ancient miners, ancient uses of copper, trade routes and commodities, and other elements.